bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MoS2-functionalized conductive carbon heterostructure embedded with ferroelectric polymers for bipolar memristive applications
Authors: Das Nipom Sekhar , Jana Rajesh , Roy Asim , Chowdhury Avijit
Published: April 2023

Heterostructures of two-dimensional layered materials, integrating two or more building blocks with complementing counterparts, can regulate the confinement and transportation of charge carriers via vacancy-induced defect and interfacial states. Herein, reduced graphene oxide-molybdenum disulfide (rGO-MoS2) nanohybrid were fabricated and reinforced with various polymers [poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA), poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF), and PMMA-PVDF (20:80) blend] to study the resistive memory properties in a metal–insulator-metal configuration. The scanning electron microscopy analysis presents a hierarchical 3D flower-like MoS2 intercalated with rGO nanosheets. Transmission electron microscopy image exhibits MoS2 nanoflakes well interspersed and grafted on layered rGO sheets, forming sandwich heterostructures. Raman analysis shows a higher I
D/I
G ratio for rGO-MoS2 than rGO, demonstrating numerous defect states in rGO. The x-ray diffraction analysis of the polymer blend containing rGO-MoS2 exhibits β-crystal phases with a polarity-dependent internal electric field (E-field). The J-V characteristics of pure MoS2-polymer films display a write-once-read-many behavior with a current I
ON/I
OFF ratio of ∼102–103, in contrast to pristine polymer films exhibiting repeatable electrical hysteresis. Instead, the rGO-MoS2-based devices display bipolar characteristics (I
ON/I
OFF ratio of ∼103–104) due to charge transfer interaction with the conductive carbon substrates. The ferroelectric polarization-induced E-field coupled with the external bias is responsible for the improved memristive performances. A plausible conduction mechanism is proposed to discuss the carrier transport through the devices.
Delayed-choice quantum erasure with nonlocal temporal double-slit interference
Authors: Hong Ling , Chen Yuanyuan , Chen Lixiang
Published: April 2023

Wave–particle duality is a counterintuitive nature of quantum physics that challenges many common-sense assumptions, and Young’s double-slit interference is a prototypical example. While most quantum erasure experiments emphasized the choice of erasing or marking the which-path information of one quantum system, we use frequency entanglement to report a nonlocal temporal double-slit interferometer such that the which-time information determines the wave-like or particle-like behaviors. Since frequency-entangled photons are created simultaneously by using spontaneous parametric down conversion, the mark of temporal distinguishability is readily prepared by delaying one of the entangled photons, and its quantum eraser is implemented by using spectrally resolved detection with a tunable delayed choice. These results may provide an alternative aspect and insight into the role of the temporal degree in quantum-light complementarity and photon interference.
Cleaning the dose falloff with low modulation in SBRT lung plans
Authors: Boria Andrew J , Narayanasamy Ganesh , Bimali Milan , Maraboyina Sanjay , Kalantari Faraz , Sabouri Pouya , Su Zhong
Published: April 2023

Purpose. This dosimetric study is intended to lower the modulation factor in lung SBRT plans generated in the Eclipse TPS that could replace highly modulated plans that are prone to the interplay effect. Materials and methods. Twenty clinical lung SBRT plans with high modulation factors (≥4) were replanned in Varian Eclipse TPS version 15.5 utilizing 2 mm craniocaudal and 1 mm axial block margins followed by light optimization in order to reduce modulation. A unique plan optimization methodology, which utilizes a novel shell structure (OptiForR50) for R50% optimization in addition to five consecutive concentric 5 mm shells, was utilized to control dose falloff according to RTOG 0813 and 0915 recommendations. The prescription varied from 34–54 Gy in 1–4 fractions, and the dose objectives were PTV D95% = Rx, PTV Dmax < 140% of Rx, and minimizing the modulation factor. Plan evaluation metrics included modulation factor, CIRTOG, homogeneity index (HI), R50%, D2cm, V105%, and lung V8–12.8Gy (Timmerman Constraint). A random-intercept linear mixed effects model was used with a p ≤ 0.05 threshold to test for statistical significance. Results. The retrospectively generated plans had significantly lower modulation factors (3.65 ± 0.35 versus 4.59 ± 0.54; p < 0.001), lower CIRTOG (0.97 ± 0.02 versus 1.02 ± 0.06; p = 0.001), higher HI (1.35 ± 0.06 versus 1.14 ± 0.04; p < 0.001), lower R50% (4.09 ± 0.45 versus 4.56 ± 0.56; p < 0.001), and lower lungs V8–12.8Gy (Timmerman) (4.61% ± 3.18% versus 4.92% ± 3.37%; p < 0.001). The high dose spillage V105% was borderline significantly lower (0.44% ± 0.49% versus 1.10% ± 1.64%; p = 0.051). The D2cm was not statistically different (46.06% ± 4.01% versus 46.19% ± 2.80%; p = 0.835). Conclusion. Lung SBRT plans with significantly lower modulation factors can be generated that meet the RTOG constraints, using our planning strategy.
Neighbourhood deprivation across eight decades and late-life cognitive function in the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936: a life-course study
Authors: Baranyi Gergő , Conte Federica , Deary Ian J , Shortt Niamh , Thompson Catharine Ward , Cox Simon R , Pearce Jamie
Published: April 2023

Introduction

although neighbourhood may predict late-life cognitive function, studies mostly rely on measurements at a single time point, with few investigations applying a life-course approach. Furthermore, it is unclear whether the associations between neighbourhood and cognitive test scores relate to specific cognitive domains or general ability. This study explored how neighbourhood deprivation across eight decades contributed to late-life cognitive function.

Methods

data were drawn from the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936 (n = 1,091) with cognitive function measured through 10 tests at ages 70, 73, 76, 79 and 82. Participants’ residential history was gathered with ‘lifegrid’ questionnaires and linked to neighbourhood deprivation in childhood, young adulthood and mid-to-late adulthood. Associations were tested with latent growth curve models for levels and slopes of general (g) and domain-specific abilities (visuospatial ability, memory and processing speed), and life-course associations were explored with path analysis.

Results

higher mid-to-late adulthood neighbourhood deprivation was associated with lower age 70 levels (β = −0.113, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: −0.205, −0.021) and faster decline of g over 12 years (β = −0.160, 95%CI: −0.290, −0.031). Initially apparent findings with domain-specific cognitive functions (e.g. processing speed) were due to their shared variance with g. Path analyses suggested that childhood neighbourhood disadvantage is indirectly linked to late-life cognitive function through lower education and selective residential mobility.

Conclusions

to our knowledge, we provide the most comprehensive assessment of the life-course neighbourhood deprivation and cognitive ageing relationship. Living in advantaged areas in mid-to-late adulthood may directly contribute to better cognitive function and slower decline, whereas an advantaged childhood neighbourhood likely affects functioning through cognitive reserves.
Differences in mental health and alcohol use across profiles of COVID-19 disruptions
Authors: Gray Aaliyah , Liu Tingting , Giorgi Salvatore , Fisher Celia B , Curtis Brenda
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to examine differences in mental health and alcohol use outcomes across distinct patterns of work, home, and social life disruptions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from 2093 adult participants were collected from September 2020 to April 2021 as a part of a larger study examining the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on substance use. Participants provided data on COVID-19 pandemic experiences, mental health outcomes, media consumption, and alcohol use at baseline. Alcohol use difficulties, including problems related to the use, desire to use alcohol, failure to cut down on alcohol use, and family/friend concern with alcohol use, were measured at 60-day follow-up. Factor mixture modeling followed by group comparisons, multiple linear regressions, and multiple logistic regressions was conducted. A four-profile model was selected. Results indicated that profile membership predicted differences in mental health and alcohol use outcomes above and beyond demographics. Individuals experiencing the most disruption reported the strongest daily impact of COVID-19 and significantly high levels of depression, anxiety, loneliness, overwhelm, alcohol use at baseline, and alcohol use difficulties measured at 60-day follow-up. The findings highlight the need for integrated mental health and/or alcohol services and social services targeting work, home, and social life during public health emergencies in order to respond effectively and comprehensively to the needs of those requiring different types of support.
Opioid-Prescribing Patterns in Body Contouring Surgery
Authors: Mundra Leela , Garossi Kassra , Iorio Matthew , Mathes David , Winocour Julian , Kaoutzanis Christodoulos
Published: April 2023

Background

The United States is experiencing the highest opioid overdose death rate in our nation's history. Misuse and addiction to opioids, including prescription pain relievers, is a serious national crisis that affects public health as well as social and economic welfare.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to critically evaluate postoperative opioid-prescribing patterns.

Methods

The PearlDiver database (Colorado Springs, CO) was queried for body contouring patients from 2010 to 2020. We identified patients that underwent panniculectomy, abdominoplasty, brachioplasty, thighplasty, mastopexy, breast augmentation, breast reduction, and liposuction for analysis. We subsequently analyzed the opioid use, with a focus on comorbid conditions and complications that are associated with increased use of opioids.

Results

A total of 56,773 patients underwent body contouring surgery. The most common opioid prescribed was hydrocodone with acetaminophen (37,017 patients). Average days of therapy was 17.92 days. Comorbid conditions and postoperative complications were examined for risk of increased opioid prescriptions. Patients with peripheral vascular disease and smoking were prescribed significantly more morphine milliequivalents (MME) of opioids than patients without peripheral vascular disease (871.97 vs 535.41; P < .001) and smoking (1069.57 vs 440.84; P < .001). Patients who developed surgical site infection, disruption of wound, and venous thromboembolism were prescribed a significantly higher MME of opioids (1213.63 vs 561.59; P < .001).

Conclusions

Our data provide information on opioid prescription patterns in the body contouring population, with focused review of comorbid conditions and complications in relation to opioid-prescribing patterns. We hope that the data will improve opioid prescription habits among plastic surgeons in the setting of a global opioid crisis.
The Effect of Hybrosome (Umbilical Cord Blood Exosome–Liposome Hybrid Vesicles) on Human Dermal Cells In Vitro
Authors: Koçak Polen , Unsal Naz , Canikyan Serli , Kul Yaren , Cohen Steven R , Tiryaki Tunç , Duncan Diane , Schlaudraff Kai-Uwe , Ascher Benjamin , Tiryaki Teodor Eren
Published: April 2023

Background

Wound healing is a process that involves multiple physiological steps, and despite the availability of various wound treatment methods, their effectiveness is still limited due to several factors, including cost, efficiency, patient-specific requirements, and side effects. In recent years, nanovesicles called exosomes have gained increasing attention as a potential wound care solution due to their unique cargo components which enable cell-to-cell communication and regulate various biological processes. Umbilical cord blood plasma (UCBP) exosomes have shown promise in triggering beneficial signaling pathways that aid in cell proliferation and wound healing. However, there is still very limited information about the wound-healing effect of UCBP exosomes in the literature.

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the “hybrosome” technology generated with calf UCBP-derived exosome–liposome combination.

Methods

The authors developed hybrosome technology by fusing cord blood exosome membranes with liposomes. Nanovesicle characterization, cell proliferation assay, wound-healing scratch assay, immunohistochemistry analysis, anti-inflammation assay, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and cellular uptake studies were performed using the novel hybrid exosomes.

Results

Experimental results showed that hybrosome increases cell proliferation and migration by 40% to 50%, depending on the dose, and induces an anti-inflammatory effect on different cell lines as well as increased wound healing–related gene expression levels in dermal cells in vitro. All in all, this research widens the scope of wound-healing therapeutics to the novel hybrosome technology.

Conclusions

UCBP-based applications have the potential for wound treatments and are promising in the development of novel therapies. This study shows that hybrosomes have outstanding abilities in wound healing using in vitro approaches.

Level of Evidence: 3
Fixing molecular complexes in BioPAX standards to enrich interactions and detect redundancies using semantic web technologies
Authors: Juigné Camille , Dameron Olivier , Moreews François , Gondret Florence , Becker Emmanuelle
Published: April 2023

Motivation

Molecular complexes play a major role in the regulation of biological pathways. The Biological Pathway Exchange format (BioPAX) facilitates the integration of data sources describing interactions some of which involving complexes. The BioPAX specification explicitly prevents complexes to have any component that is another complex (unless this component is a black-box complex whose composition is unknown). However, we observed that the well-curated Reactome pathway database contains such recursive complexes of complexes. We propose reproductible and semantically rich SPARQL queries for identifying and fixing invalid complexes in BioPAX databases, and evaluate the consequences of fixing these nonconformities in the Reactome database.

Results

For the Homo sapiens version of Reactome, we identify 5833 recursively defined complexes out of the 14 987 complexes (39%). This situation is not specific to the Human dataset, as all tested species of Reactome exhibit between 30% (Plasmodium falciparum) and 40% (Sus scrofa, Bos taurus, Canis familiaris, and Gallus gallus) of recursive complexes. As an additional consequence, the procedure also allows the detection of complex redundancies. Overall, this method improves the conformity and the automated analysis of the graph by repairing the topology of the complexes in the graph. This will allow to apply further reasoning methods on better consistent data.

Availability and implementation

We provide a Jupyter notebook detailing the analysis https://github.com/cjuigne/non_conformities_detection_biopax.
pyInfinityFlow: optimized imputation and analysis of high-dimensional flow cytometry data for millions of cells
Authors: Ferchen Kyle , Salomonis Nathan , Grimes H Leighton
Published: April 2023

Motivation

While conventional flow cytometry is limited to dozens of markers, new experimental and computational strategies, such as Infinity Flow, allow for the generation and imputation of hundreds of cell surface protein markers in millions of cells. Here, we describe an end-to-end analysis workflow for Infinity Flow data in Python.

Results

pyInfinityFlow enables the efficient analysis of millions of cells, without down-sampling, through direct integration with well-established Python packages for single-cell genomics analysis. pyInfinityFlow accurately identifies both common and extremely rare cell populations which are challenging to define from single-cell genomics studies alone. We demonstrate that this workflow can nominate novel markers to design new flow cytometry gating strategies for predicted cell populations. pyInfinityFlow can be extended to diverse cell discovery analyses with flexibility to adapt to diverse Infinity Flow experimental designs.

Availability and implementation

pyInfinityFlow is freely available in GitHub (https://github.com/KyleFerchen/pyInfinityFlow) and on PyPI (https://pypi.org/project/pyInfinityFlow/). Package documentation with tutorials on a test dataset is available by Read the Docs (pyinfinityflow.readthedocs.io). The scripts and data for reproducing the results are available at https://github.com/KyleFerchen/pyInfinityFlow/tree/main/analysis_scripts, along with the raw flow cytometry input data.
Training surgeons to optimize communication and symptom management in patients with life-limiting conditions: systematic review
Authors: Zucker Benjamin E , Leandro Lorna , Forbes Karen , Blazeby Jane M , Chamberlain Charlotte
Published: April 2023

Background

Surgeons routinely care for patients with life-limiting illness, requiring communication and symptom management skills supported by appropriate training. The objective of this study was to appraise and synthesize studies that assessed surgeon-directed training interventions that aimed to optimize communication and symptom management for patients with life-limiting illness.

Methods

A PRISMA-concordant systematic review was undertaken. MEDLINE, Embase, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from inception until October 2022 for studies reporting on the evaluation of surgeon-training interventions intending to improve surgeons’ communication or symptom management of patients with life-limiting disease. Data on the design, trainer and patient participants, and the intervention were extracted. Risk of bias was assessed.

Results

Of 7794 articles, 46 were included. Most studies employed a before–after approach (29 studies) and nine included control groups with five being randomized studies. General surgery was the most frequently included sub-specialty (22 studies). Trainers were described in 25 of 46 studies. Most training interventions aimed to improve communication skills (45 studies) and 13 different training interventions were described. Eight studies reported a measurable improvement in patient care, such as increased documentation of advance care discussions. Most study outcomes focused on surgeons’ knowledge (12 studies), skills (21 studies), and confidence/comfort (18 studies) in palliative communication skills. Studies had a high risk of bias.

Conclusion

Whilst interventions exist to improve the training of surgeons managing patients with life-threatening conditions, evidence is limited, and studies measure the direct impact on patient care insufficiently. Improved research is needed to lead to better methods for training surgeons to benefit patients.
MCM6 promotes intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma progression by upregulating E2F1 and enhancing epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: Gao Chongqing , Li Jing , Zeng Fuling , Wang Lijuan , Chen Kaiyun , Chen Dong , Hong Jian , Qu Chen
Published: April 2023

Minichromosome maintenance complex component 6 (MCM6), a member of the MCM family, plays a pivotal role in DNA replication initiation and genome duplication of proliferating cells. MCM6 is upregulated in multiple malignancies and is considered a novel diagnostic biomarker. However, the functional contributions and prognostic value of MCM6 in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) remain unexplored. In this study, we investigated the molecular function of MCM6 in ICC. Data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO, GSE107943) indicated an upregulation of MCM6 in tumor tissues. Immunohistochemical analysis performed on 115 cases of ICC samples confirmed the upregulation of MCM6 and further suggested that a high level of MCM6 expression predicted shorter overall and disease-free survival in ICC patients. Functional studies suggested that MCM6 knockdown significantly suppressed cell viability, blocked cell cycle progression and inhibited metastasis, while the enhancement of MCM6 expression promoted the proliferation and migration of ICC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) suggested that the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and E2F1-correlated genes were enriched in ICC tissues with high MCM6 expression. Further verification indicated that MCM6 promoted the EMT of ICC cells via upregulating E2F1. In addition, E2F1 knockdown partially blocked the pro-malignant effects of MCM6 overexpression. In summary, MCM6 was found to be a novel prognostic and predictive marker for ICC. MCM6 promoted ICC progression via activation of E2F1-mediated EMT.
Scaffolding dermatological learning with near-peer teaching for preclinical-year medical students
Authors: Ting Jason S K , Tan Yu L , Veasuvalingam Bhavani , Yap Ashley Y M , Ghui Shi M , Yong Jade L   , Goodson Michaela
Published: April 2023

Background

To date, to our knowledge, there has not been a study on dermatological teaching in the preclinical years (usually the first 2 years of medical school), where the majority of learning takes place in the form of lectures and seminars. Near-peer teaching (NPT) involves students who are at least one academic year more senior imparting knowledge to junior students. The principles behind scaffolding are having a more experienced teacher to guide learning, breaking down learning into smaller tasks and helping to build interest in learning.

Objectives

To investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of NPT in scaffolding dermatological learning among preclinical-year medical students.

Methods

Near-peer teachers who are content experts in dermatology taught alongside conventional teaching with lecturers. We employed five quiz questions before and after the case launch lecture, where students were first exposed to dermatology. We also invited students to provide feedback using a questionnaire on NPT in dermatology at the end of the case 8 teaching week.

Results

In total, 74 students participated in the pre- and post-lecture quiz questions, and 47 completed feedback. There was overwhelmingly positive feedback towards NPT, and various learning theories can help explain the success of this project.

Conclusions

Preclinical students enjoy dermatological teaching with the involvement of suitable near-peers. With the professional barrier removed, students can better relate to near-peers (and vice versa). Helping students understand the relevance of dermatology in the clinical setting at an early stage and adopting learning tools such as mnemonics, summary tables, comparison tables and mapping teaching with the learning curriculum clearly helped students learn about dermatology.
Treatment of severe atopic dermatitis with tralokinumab in clinical practice: short-term effectiveness and safety results
Authors: Pereyra-Rodríguez José-Juan , Herranz Pedro , Ruiz-Villaverde Ricardo , Elosua-González Marta , Galán-Gutiérrez Manuel , Figueras-Nart Ignasi , Miquel Javier , de la Cueva Pablo , Serra-Baldrich Esther , Munera-Campos Monica , Melé-Ninot Gemma , Expósito-Serrano Vicente , Perez Bibiana , Serrano Amalia , Ortiz de Frutos Javier F , Armario-Hita José C
Published: April 2023

Background

Tralokinumab was recently approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) and is the first selective interleukin (IL)-13 inhibitor that specifically neutralizes IL-13 with high affinity.

Objectives

To determine the real-life short-term effectiveness and safety of tralokinumab treatment in patients with moderate-to-severe AD.

Methods

A multicentre retrospective study was conducted including adult patients with moderate-to-severe AD who started tralokinumab treatment from 1 April to 30 June 2022 in 16 Spanish hospitals. Demographic and disease characteristics, severity and quality of life scales were collected at the baseline visit and at weeks 4 and 16.

Results

Eighty-five patients were included. Twenty-seven patients (32%) were non-naive to advanced therapy (biological or Janus kinase inhibitors inhibitors). All included patients had severe disease with baseline Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) scores of 25.4 (SD 8.1), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) 15.8 (5.4) and peak pruritus numerical rating scale (PP-NRS) 8.1 (1.8) and 65% had an Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA) of 4. At week 16, there was improvement on all scales. The mean EASI decreased to 7.5 (SD 6.9, 70% improvement), SCORing Atopic Dermatitis improved 64% and PP-NRS, 57%. Also, 82%, 58% and 21% of the patients achieved EASI 50, 75 and 90, respectively. The percentage of EASI 75 responders was significantly higher among the naive vs. non-naive groups (67% vs. 41%). The safety profile was acceptable.

Conclusions

Patients, with a long history of disease and prior multidrug failure, showed a good response to tralokinumab, confirming clinical trial results.
Reply to ‘Paradoxical hidradenitis suppurativa induced by adalimumab biosimilar successfully treated with guselkumab in a patient with psoriasis. Comment on “Paradoxical hidradenitis suppurativa due to anti-interleukin-1 agents for mevalonate kinase deficiency successfully treated with the addition of ustekinumab”’
Authors: López Sanz Pablo , Guzmán Pérez Marta , Guerrero Ramírez Claudia , Manso Córdoba Silvia , Alfaro Martínez María Encarnación , Azaña Defez José Manuel
Published: April 2023

The management of patients with paradoxical hidradenitis suppurativa receiving biologic therapy should be individualized, but the treatment of these reactions is mainly based on the discontinuation of the culprit drug taking into account the balance between subsequent risks and benefits.
SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with anti-desmoglein 2 autoantibody detection
Authors: Ward Kerensa E , Steadman Lora , Karim Abid R , Reynolds Gary M , Pugh Matthew , Chua Winnie , Faustini Sian E , Veenith Tonny , Thwaites Ryan S , Openshaw Peter J M , Drayson Mark T , Shields Adrian M , Cunningham Adam F , Wraith David C , Richter Alex G
Published: April 2023

Post-acute cardiac sequelae, following SARS-CoV-2 infection, are well recognized as complications of COVID-19. We have previously shown the persistence of autoantibodies against antigens in skin, muscle, and heart in individuals following severe COVID-19; the most common staining on skin tissue displayed an inter-cellular cement pattern consistent with antibodies against desmosomal proteins. Desmosomes play a critical role in maintaining the structural integrity of tissues. For this reason, we analyzed desmosomal protein levels and the presence of anti-desmoglein (DSG) 1, 2, and 3 antibodies in acute and convalescent sera from patients with COVID-19 of differing clinical severity. We find increased levels of DSG2 protein in sera from acute COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, we find that DSG2 autoantibody levels are increased significantly in convalescent sera following severe COVID-19 but not in hospitalized patients recovering from influenza infection or healthy controls. Levels of autoantibody in sera from patients with severe COVID-19 were comparable to levels in patients with non-COVID-19-associated cardiac disease, potentially identifying DSG2 autoantibodies as a novel biomarker for cardiac damage. To determine if there was any association between severe COVID-19 and DSG2, we stained post-mortem cardiac tissue from patients who died from COVID-19 infection. This confirmed DSG2 protein within the intercalated discs and disruption of the intercalated disc between cardiomyocytes in patients who died from COVID-19. Our results reveal the potential for DSG2 protein and autoimmunity to DSG2 to contribute to unexpected pathologies associated with COVID-19 infection.
The link between T cell activation and development of functionally useful tumour-associated high endothelial venules
Authors: Milutinovic Stefan , Gallimore Awen
Published: April 2023

High endothelial venules (HEVs) are specialized postcapillary venules that specifically serve to recruit circulating lymphocytes to secondary lymphoid organs (SLOs) where cognate antigens can be encountered, and immune responses can be initiated. The presence of HEV-like vessels in primary human solid tumours and their association with lymphocyte infiltration and favourable clinical outcomes and response to immunotherapy have provided a rationale for therapeutically inducing these vessels in tumours for immunotherapeutic benefit. Here we specifically discuss evidence for a link between T-cell activation and development of useful tumour-associated HEV (TA-HEV). We discuss the molecular and functional features of TA-HEV, highlighting the benefits for promoting tumour immunity and the important unanswered questions that need to be addressed before TA-HEV induction can be optimized for immunotherapeutic benefit.
Rare case of infective endocarditis from invasive aspergillosis encasing the pulmonary valve: a case report
Authors: Basyal Binaya , Clark Paul A , Cohen Jeffrey E , Srichai Monvadi B
Published: April 2023

Background

Aspergillus endocarditis is a rare cause of infective endocarditis and requires high index of suspicion for diagnosis.

Case summary

We describe a case of a 50-year-old man with history of metastatic thymoma on immunosuppression (gemcitabine and capecitabine) who presented with progressive dyspnoea. Echocardiography and computed tomography (CT) of chest showed filling defect in the pulmonary artery. The initial differential diagnosis was of pulmonary embolism and metastatic disease. The mass was subsequently excised, which revealed a diagnosis of Aspergillus endocarditis of the pulmonary valve. Unfortunately, he passed away despite medical treatment with antifungal therapy after surgery.

Discussion

Aspergillus endocarditis should be suspected in immunosuppressed hosts with negative blood cultures and large vegetations on echocardiography. Diagnosis is made by tissue histology but may be difficult or delayed. Optimal treatment involves aggressive surgical debridement and prolonged antifungal therapy; prognosis is poor with high mortality.
Catheter ablation of intramural outflow tract premature ventricular complexes: a multicentre study
Authors: Hanson Matthew , Futyma Piotr , Bode Weeranun , Liang Jackson J , Tapia Carlos , Adams Christian , Zarębski Łukasz , Wrzos Aleksandra , Saenz Luis , Sadek Mouhannad , Muser Daniele , Baranchuk Adrian , Marchlinski Francis , Santangeli Pasquale , Garcia Fermin , Enriquez Andres
Published: April 2023

Aims

Ablation of outflow tract ventricular arrhythmias may be limited by a deep intramural location of the arrhythmogenic source. This study evaluates the acute and long-term outcomes of patients undergoing ablation of intramural outflow tract premature ventricular complexes (PVCs).

Methods and results

This multicenter series included patients with structurally normal heart or nonischemic cardiomyopathy and intramural outflow tract PVCs defined by: (a) ≥ 2 of the following criteria: (1) earliest endocardial or epicardial activation < 20ms pre-QRS; (2) Similar activation in different chambers; (3) no/transient PVC suppression with ablation at earliest endocardial/epicardial site; or (b) earliest ventricular activation recorded in a septal coronary vein. Ninety-two patients were included, with a mean PVC burden of 21.5±10.9%. Twenty-six patients had had previous ablations. All PVCs had inferior axis, with LBBB pattern in 68%. In 29 patients (32%) direct mapping of the intramural septum was performed using an insulated wire or multielectrode catheter, and in 13 of these cases the earliest activation was recorded within a septal vein. Most patients required special ablation techniques (one or more), including sequential unipolar ablation in 73%, low-ionic irrigation in 26%, bipolar ablation in 15% and ethanol ablation in 1%. Acute PVC suppression was achieved in 75% of patients. Following the procedure, the PVC burden was reduced to 5.8±8.4%. The mean follow-up was 15±14 months and 16 patients underwent a repeat ablation.

Conclusion

Ablation of intramural PVCs is challenging; acute arrhythmia elimination is achieved in 3/4 patients, and non-conventional approaches are often necessary for success.
Aging as Adaptation
Authors: Watkins Susan , Raisborough Jayne , Connor Rachel
Published: April 2023

In traditional gerontological terms, adaptation is usually understood as the production of physical aids to mitigate the impairment effects caused by age-related disabilities, or as those alterations organizations need to make under the concept of reasonable adjustment to prevent age discrimination (in the UK, e.g., age has been a protected characteristic under the Equality Act since 2010). This article will be the first to examine aging in relation to theories of adaptation within cultural studies and the humanities. It is thus an interdisciplinary intervention within the field of cultural gerontology and cultural theories of adaptation. Adaptation studies in cultural studies and the humanities have moved away from fidelity criticism (the issue of how faithful an adaptation is to its original) toward thinking of adaptation as a creative, improvisational space. We ask if theories of adaptation as understood within cultural studies and the humanities can help us develop a more productive and creative way of conceptualizing the aging process, which reframes aging in terms of transformational and collaborative adaptation. Moreover, for women in particular, this process of adaptation involves engagement with ideas of women’s experience that encompass an adaptive, intergenerational understanding of feminism. Our article draws on interviews with the producer and scriptwriter of the Representage theater group’s play My Turn Now. The script for the play is adapted from a 1993 coauthored book written by a group of 6 women who were then in their 60s and 70s, who founded a networking group for older women.
On the time-stability of resonance frequencies in deep basins
Authors: Lattanzi Giovanni , Castellaro Silvia , Di Donato Miriana
Published: April 2023

Determining the resonance frequencies of sediment-filled basins is important in seismic site effects assessment and to infer information about the geometrical and mechanical properties of the basins. Being intrinsic properties of elastic bodies, resonance frequencies are not expected to change over time, at least in the short term and under small excitations, in this type of basins. By analysing multi-annual time-series at some seismic stations located on markedly alpine and subalpine 2-D basins, we first state under what type of exciting function (ambient noise) these resonances can be identified and with what uncertainty. The analysis will reveal a clear annual and daily oscillation of the resonance frequencies, increasing in the summertime and at daytime (i.e. directly correlated with temperature). We attempt to provide different explanations to this not yet so systematically documented experimental evidence. A clear and unique answer is yet to come.
Capacity optimization strategy for energy storage system to ensure power supply
Authors: Fu Huimin , Shi Ming , Feng Miaomiao
Published: April 2023

Photovoltaic (PV) and wind power generation are very promising renewable energy sources, reasonable capacity allocation of PV–wind complementary energy storage (ES) power generation system can improve the economy and reliability of system operation. In this paper, the goal is to ensure the power supply of the system and reduce the operation cost. The PV, wind and ES system models are analyzed. The differential evolutionary (DE) algorithm is adopted to optimize the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm, and the parameters of the PSO algorithm are changed through the DE algorithm to obtain better performance. We use MATLAB to verify that when the system is composed of 100 kW PV and 100 kW wind power, the battery capacity obtained by PSO algorithm is 400 kWh, while the algorithm proposed in this paper only requires 330 kWh. Although the loss of load probability of the system is improved by about 0.12%, the cost is saved by 17.5%. To improve the system operation reliability, we recommend increasing PV, wind and ES capacity at the same time rather than increasing ES capacity separately.
Identification of candidate genes associated with carcass component weights in commercial crossbred pigs through a combined GWAS approach
Authors: Qiu Yibin , Zhuang Zhanwei , Meng Fanming , Ruan Donglin , Xu Cineng , Ma Fucai , Peng Longlong , Ding Rongrong , Cai Gengyuan , Yang Ming , Wu Zhenfang , Yang Jie , Zheng Enqin
Published: April 2023

In the pork industry chain, carcass cutting is crucial for enhancing the commercial value of pork carcasses. However, the genetic mechanisms underlying carcass component weights remain poorly understood. Here, we used a combined genome-wide association study (GWAS) approach that integrated single- and multi-locus models to map genetic markers and genes associated with the weights of seven carcass components in Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire (DLY) pigs. As multi-locus GWAS captures more single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with large effects than single-locus GWAS, the combined GWAS approach detected more SNPs than using the single-locus model alone. We identified 177 nonredundant SNPs associated with these traits in 526 DLY pigs, including boneless butt shoulder (BBS), boneless picnic shoulder (BPS), boneless leg (BL), belly (BELLY), front fat (FF), rear fat (RF), and skin-on whole loin (SLOIN). Using single-locus GWAS, we identified a quantitative trait locus (QTL) for SLOIN on Sus scrofa chromosome 15 (SSC15). Notably, a single SNP (ASGA0069883) in the proximity of this QTL was consistently detected by all GWAS models (one single-locus and four multi-locus models) and explained more than 4% of the phenotypic variance. Our findings suggest that the involved gene, MYO3B, is proposed to be a strong candidate for SLOIN. Further analysis also identified several candidate genes related to BBS (PPP3CA and CPEB4), BPS (ECH1), FF (CACNB2 and ZNF217), BELLY (FGFRL1), BL (CHST11), and RF (LRRK2). The identified SNPs can be used as molecular markers for the genetic improvement of pork carcasses in the molecular-guided breeding of modern commercial pigs.
Circumscribed Masses on Breast MRI: Can MRI Features Guide Management?
Authors: Myers Kelly S , Shey Erica , Ambinder Emily B , Mullen Lisa A , Panigrahi Babita , Di Carlo Philip A , Yenokyan Gayane , Oluyemi Eniola T
Published: April 2023

Objective

Management of circumscribed breast masses seen on MRI is largely extrapolated from mammography and US data with limited MRI-specific data available. This study aimed to assess clinical and MRI imaging features of malignant circumscribed breast masses.

Methods

In this IRB-approved retrospective study, breast MRIs performed between April 1, 2008, and August 30, 2020, containing circumscribed masses, excluding multiple bilateral circumscribed masses, were reviewed. Clinical and imaging features of all eligible masses were recorded, and associations with malignant outcomes were assessed using Fisher’s exact test and Wilcoxon rank sum test, with P < 0.05 considered significant.

Results

For the 165 masses that met study criteria in 158 women, the mean age was 48 years (SD 12.0 years). Nine of 165 masses were malignant (5.5%). Round masses were significantly more likely to be malignant (7/37, 18.9%) compared to oval masses (2/128, 1.7%) (P < 0.001). Among masses with available dynamic contrast kinetics data, the malignancy rate was 0/84 (0%) for persistent kinetics, 2/23 (8.7%) for plateau kinetics, and 4/24 (16.7%) for washout kinetics (P = 0.002). The malignancy rate for oval masses without washout kinetics was 0% (0/92). T2 hyperintense masses had a malignancy rate of 7/104 (6.7%), and homogeneously enhancing masses had a malignancy rate of 5/91 (5.5%).

Conclusion

These data support the use of mass shape and dynamic contrast enhancement kinetics to guide management of circumscribed breast masses seen by MRI, with oval masses without washout kinetics and any circumscribed mass with persistent kinetics showing no malignancies in this study.
Aberrant right subclavian artery: a case of vertebrobasilar insufficiency
Authors: Kimyaghalam A , Gabay A , Singh K
Published: April 2023

Aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA) is a rare congenital malformation, wherein the aorta gives rise to the right subclavian artery as a branch off the aortic arch distal to the takeoff of the left subclavian artery. We presented a case of a patient with ARSA that manifested vertebrobasilar symptoms. PubMed search was preformed using keywords ‘aberrant right subclavian artery’, ‘right subclavian steal’ and ‘vertebrobasilar’, which generated nine articles. We found only seven case reports through a PubMed search that discuss ARSA in association with Subclavian steal syndrome. Approximately 71% (n = 5) of the patients in our literature review manifested with signs and symptoms of vertebrobasilar insufficiency. Given the complex anatomy in this condition, treatment should be aimed at symptom resolution. Carotid-subclavian bypass ultimately resolved the symptoms in our patient. Management in symptomatic patient is surgical. In addition to open technique, endovascular interventions can be an option.
Inverted appendix in a patient with colon cancer: a case report and long-term follow-up
Authors: Aljalabneh Basim , Mureb Amro , Aljundi Nadeem , Al-Qasem Kholoud , Al-Masri Mahmoud
Published: April 2023

Appendiceal inversion is a rare entity that can potentially mimic serious pathology and provide diagnostic uncertainty. They are mostly diagnosed intraoperatively or during endoscopies and scans for other reasons. We report a case of an asymptomatic patient treated for colon cancer without previous history of appendectomy. We provide long-term follow-up and aim to review the relevant literature.
Goblet cell adenocarcinoma: a case report and update regarding investigation and management
Authors: Deveson Laura C
Published: April 2023

This article describes the case of a patient who presented with an acute abdomen. Histopathology of the ruptured appendix identified Goblet Cell Adenocarcinoma. The biology of this rare tumour is now better understood, leading to updated best practise regarding investigation, staging and management.
NaWRKY3 is a master transcriptional regulator of the defense network against brown spot disease in wild tobacco
Authors: Xu Zhen , Zhang Shuting , Wu Jinsong
Published: April 2023

WRKY transcription factors are involved in plant defense against pathogens. No WRKYs have been reported to be involved in resistance to tobacco brown spot disease caused by Alternaria alternata. Here, we found that NaWRKY3 plays a critical role in Nicotiana attenuata defense against A. alternata. NaWRKY3 bound and regulated many defense genes, including: lipoxygenase 3, ACC synthase 1, and ACC oxidase 1, three jasmonate- and ethylene-biosynthetic genes; feruloyl-CoA 6ʹ-hydroxylase 1 (NaF6ʹH1), the biosynthetic gene for the phytoalexins scopoletin and scopolin; and three A. alternata resistance genes, the long non-coding RNA L2, NADPH oxidase (NaRboh D), and berberine bridge-like (NaBBL28). Silencing L2 reduced jasmonate concentrations and NaF6ʹH1 expression. NaRboh D-silenced plants were severely impaired in reactive oxygen species production and stomatal closure responses. NaBBL28 was the first A. alternata resistance BBL identified and was involved in the hydroxylation of 17-hydroxygeranyllinalool diterpene glycosides. NaWRKY3 bound to its own promoter but repressed its expression. Thus, we demonstrated that NaWRKY3 is a fine-tuned master regulator of the defense network against A. alternata in N. attenuata by regulating several signaling pathways and defense metabolites. This is the first time such an important WRKY has been identified in Nicotiana species, providing new insights into defense against A. alternata.
SN 2021fxy: mid-ultraviolet flux suppression is a common feature of Type Ia supernovae
Authors: DerKacy J M , Paugh S , Baron E , Brown P J , Ashall C , Burns C R , Hsiao E Y , Kumar S , Lu J , Morrell N , Phillips M M , Shahbandeh M , Shappee B J , Stritzinger M D , Tucker M A , Yarbrough Z , Boutsia K , Hoeflich P , Wang L , Galbany L , Karamehmetoglu E , Krisciunas K , Mazzali P , Piro A L , Suntzeff N B , Fiore A , Gutiérrez C P , Lundqvist P , Reguitti A
Published: April 2023

We present ultraviolet (UV) to near-infrared (NIR) observations and analysis of the nearby Type Ia supernova SN 2021fxy. Our observations include UV photometry from Swift/UVOT, UV spectroscopy from HST/STIS, and high-cadence optical photometry with the Swope 1-m telescope capturing intranight rises during the early light curve. Early B − V colours show SN 2021fxy is the first ‘shallow-silicon’ (SS) SN Ia to follow a red-to-blue evolution, compared to other SS objects which show blue colours from the earliest observations. Comparisons to other spectroscopically normal SNe Ia with HST UV spectra reveal SN 2021fxy is one of several SNe Ia with flux suppression in the mid-UV. These SNe also show blueshifted mid-UV spectral features and strong high-velocity Ca ii features. One possible origin of this mid-UV suppression is the increased effective opacity in the UV due to increased line blanketing from high velocity material, but differences in the explosion mechanism cannot be ruled out. Among SNe Ia with mid-UV suppression, SNe 2021fxy and 2017erp show substantial similarities in their optical properties despite belonging to different Branch subgroups, and UV flux differences of the same order as those found between SNe 2011fe and 2011by. Differential comparisons to multiple sets of synthetic SN Ia UV spectra reveal this UV flux difference likely originates from a luminosity difference between SNe 2021fxy and 2017erp, and not differing progenitor metallicities as suggested for SNe 2011by and 2011fe. These comparisons illustrate the complicated nature of UV spectral formation, and the need for more UV spectra to determine the physical source of SNe Ia UV diversity.
Bayesian evidence and model selection approach for time-dependent dark energy
Authors: Khorasani Mohsen , Mosleh Moein , Sheykhi Ahmad
Published: April 2023

We use parametrized post-Friedmann (PPF) description for dark energy and apply ellipsoidal nested sampling to perform the Bayesian model selection method on different time-dependent dark energy models using a combination of Planck and data based on distance measurements, namely baryon acoustic oscillations and supernovae luminosity distance. Models with two and three free parameters described in terms of linear scale factor a, or scaled in units of e-folding ln a are considered. Our results show that parametrizing dark energy in terms of ln a provides better constraints on the free parameters than polynomial expressions. In general, two free-parameter models are adequate to describe the dynamics of the dark energy compared to their three free-parameter generalizations. According to the Bayesian evidence, determining the strength of support for cosmological constant Λ over polynomial dark energy models remains inconclusive. Furthermore, considering the R statistic as the tension metric shows that one of the polynomial models gives rise to a tension between Planck and distance measurements data sets. The preference for the logarithmic equation of state over Λ is inconclusive, and the strength of support for $\rm \Lambda$ CDM over the oscillating model is moderate.