bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in VTI1A Gene Contribute to the Susceptibility of Chinese Population to Non-Small Cell Lung cancer
Authors: Su Wen-Mei , Chen Zhi-Hong , Zhang Xu-Chao , Su Jian , Xie Zhi , Yan Hong-Hong , Yang Jin-Ji , Chen Hua-Jun , Zhou Qing , Zhong Wen-Zhao , Guo Wei-Bang , Chen Shi-Liang , Wu Yi-Long
Published: March 2015

Background

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have determined a new single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) called VTI1A (rs7086803) that induces lung cancer susceptibility in nonsmoking women in Asia. This study aimed to evaluate the association between the VTI1A gene and the susceptibility of Chinese patients to lung cancer; it was also conducted to investigate the relationship between VTI1A SNP and adiponectin receptor 1 expression.

Methods

A total of 887 subjects were enrolled in this study. VTI1A (rs7086803) genotypes were determined by genotyping. Overall survival (OS) was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis with a log-rank test.

Results

Multivariate regression analysis results indicated that the AA genotype of VTI1A (rs7086803) polymorphism was associated with an increased risk of developing non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) compared with the GG genotype (AA vs. GG: odds ratio [OR] = 2.020; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.033-3.949, p = 0.037). The AA genotype of VTI1A (rs7086803) in smokers predicted significantly shorter OS (median survival time [MST]: AA 9.8 months, AG 19.3 months, GG 12.2 months, p = 0.017). Adiponectin receptor 1 expression in tumor tissues with the AA genotype was significantly lower than that for other genotypes (mean rank: AA 18.55, AG 25, GG 45.76, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

The presence of the allele A of VTI1A (rs7086803) may be the allele contributing to the risk of lung cancer susceptibility in Chinese population. Smoking lung cancer patients with the AA genotype of VTI1A gene (rs7086803) had a poor survival rate. Adiponectin receptor 1 expression may be correlated with the susceptibility of the allele A of VTI1A.
Urinary Bladder Preservation for Muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer: A Survey among Radiation Oncologists of Lombardy, Italy
Authors: Jereczek-Fossa Barbara Alicja , Colombo Renzo , Magnani Tiziana , Fodor Cristiana , Gerardi Marianna Alessandra , Antognoni Paolo , Barsacchi Lucia , Bedini Nice , Bracelli Stefano , Buffoli Alberto , Cagna Emanuela , Catalane Gianpiero , Gottardo Stefania , Italia Corrado , Ivaldi Giovanni Battista , Masciullo Stefano , Merlotti Anna , Sarti Enrico , Scorsetti Marta , Serafini Flavia , Toninelli Mariasole , Vitali Elisabetta , Valdagni Riccardo , Villa Elisa , Zerini Dario , De Cobelli Ottavio , Orecchia Roberto
Published: March 2015

Aims and Background

Bladder preservation is a treatment option in muscle-invasive bladder carcinoma. The most investigated approach is a trimodality schedule including maximum transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) followed by chemoradiotherapy. Our aim was to evaluate the use of bladder preservation by radiation oncologists of the Lombardy region in Italy.

Methods and Study Design

A survey with 13 items regarding data of 2012 was sent to all 32 radiotherapy centers within the collaboration between the Lombardy Oncological Network and the Lombardy Section of the Italian Society of Oncological Radiotherapy.

Results

Thirteen centers (41%) answered the survey; the presented data come from 11 active centers. In these centers, 11,748 patients were treated with external-beam radiotherapy in 2012, 100 of whom having bladder cancer (0.9%). 74/100 patients received radiotherapy as palliative treatment for T, N or M lesions. A further 9 and 5 patients received radiotherapy for oligometastatic disease (ablative doses to small volumes) and postoperatively, respectively. Bladder preservation was performed in 12 cases and included trimodality and other strategies (mainly TURBT followed by radiotherapy). A multidisciplinary urology tumor board met regularly in 5 of 11 centers. All responders declared their interest in the Lombardy multicenter collaboration on bladder preservation.

Conclusions

Our survey showed that bladder preservation is rarely used in Lombardy despite the availability of the latest radiotherapy technologies and the presence of an urology tumor board in half of the centers. The initiative of multicenter and multidisciplinary collaboration was undertaken to prepare the platform for bladder preservation as a treatment option in selected patients.
Plasma Levels of E-cadherin and MMP-13 in Prostate Cancer Patients: Correlation with PSA, Testosterone and Pathological Parameters
Authors: Bonaldi Carolina M. , Azzalis Ligia A. , Junqueira Virginia B.C. , de Oliveira Claudia G.B. , Boas Viviane A. Vilas , Gáscon Thaís M. , Gehrke Flávia S. , Kuniyoshi Renata K. , Alves Beatriz C.A. , Fonseca Fernando L.A.
Published: March 2015

Aims and Background

Prostate cancer is the most common malignant tumor in men. Serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA), Gleason score and clinical range at the time of diagnosis are important factors to predict prognosis and outcome after therapy but additional accurate and reliable biomarkers are still wanted. So far, few biomarkers of prostate cancer have been successfully implemented and are being used in clinical practice. However, modifications of E-cadherin and MMP-13 expression are likely to be involved in prostate cancer invasion and thus are potential biomarkers for prognosis.

Patients and Methods

We analyzed the concentrations of E-cadherin and MMP-13 in plasma of patients with prostate cancer at diagnosis and 3 and 6 months after the beginning of treatment and related these measures to free and total PSA and other clinical features.

Results

The concentration of E-cadherin was lower in patients with prostate cancer compared to the control group, but there was no difference in the concentration of MMP-13 between these two groups. During treatment, however, we found no significant differences between the concentrations of MMP-13 and E-cadherin, but we observed a significant positive correlation between total PSA and E-cadherin plasma concentration at the third month of treatment and between total testosterone and MMP-13 plasma concentration before the start of treatment.

Conclusions

The results suggest that these parameters could be used both in the diagnosis and prognosis of prostate cancer.
Neoadjuvant Crizotinib in Advanced Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumour with ALK Gene Rearrangement
Authors: Rafee Shereen , Elamin Yasir Y. , Joyce Eimear , Toner Mary , Flavin Richard , McDermott Ronan , Sheehy Niall , Hennessy Bryan , O'Byrne Kenneth , Gleeson Noreen , Osman Nemer
Published: March 2015

Background

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumours (IMTs) are rare sarcomas that were first described in the lung. They are composed of myofibroblastic mesenchymal spindle cells accompanied by an inflammatory infiltrate of plasma cells. Complete resection is the treatment of choice. There is currently no standard treatment for inoperable or recurrent disease. Expression of ALK protein triggered by ALK gene rearrangement at chromosome 2p23 has been found in 36%-60% of IMTs.

Case report

We report a rapid early response to crizotinib as neoadjuvant therapy, enabling surgical excision of a large ALK(-translocated IMT, which resulted in complete disease clearance. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case in the literature of a patient with IMT in whom crizotinib was used successfully in the neoadjuvant or curative setting.
Clinical practice and adherence to the diagnosis and treatment of NMIBC guidelines: a report of a recognition based clinical cases study
Authors: Torreggiani Aldo , Colombo Renzo , Gontero Paolo , Lapini Alberto , Sanseverino Roberto , Serretta Vincenzo
Published: March 2015

For non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, a disease with a considerable epidemiological and socio-economic impact, the introduction of the Guidelines has always evoked as a tool for the resolution of long-standing disputes in terms of diagnosis and therapy. Check the degree of routine clinical practice adherence to the Recommendations is for this disease, more than for other uro-oncology pathology, an urgent need felt by the urological community. To assess the level of Guidelines adherence's, and study issues related to the paths of diagnosis and treatment of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, and identifying the processes actually implemented in daily clinical practice, a series of case studies has submitted to a group of experts. The acknowledgement study allowed testing the impact of the current Evidence Based Medicine Recommendations in the everyday clinical practice identifying strengths and weaknesses. Questions Responses Analysis' of 5 clinical cases (Ta low grade, T1 low grade, T1 high grade, T1 high grade + CIS, Ta low-grade multiple recurrence) showed a moderate amendment to the European Association of Urology (EAU)-Guidelines. On the other hand, it was emphasized that there are clear discrepancies between what should be done, in accordance with the Evidence Based Medicine Recommendations, and what is actually do in everyday clinical practice. The most common reason for the low Recommendations adherences are structural and organizational practical limitations.
Surgical Treatment of Rectourinary Fistulas: Review of the Literature
Authors: Crestani Alessandro , Dal Mora Fabrizio
Published: March 2015

Background

A rectourethral fistula (RUF) is an uncommon complication resulting from surgery, radiation, or trauma. Retrospective studies and case reports have highlighted different approaches for surgical repair.

Objective

The aim of this study was to review our experience with surgical management of RUF.

Data sources

MEDLINE (PubMed, Ovid) and the Cochrane Library were searched by using the terms RUFs urethrorectal fistulas, and prostatourethral-rectal fistulas.

Study selection

All studies were retrospective and in English. Of the records identified, 31 series were included.

Results

Four hundred sixty-five patients were identified. Most patients underwent one of four categories of repair: transanal (4.7%), transabdominal (14.1%), transsphincteric (26.6%), and transperineal (57.6%). Tissue interposition flaps, predominantly gracilis muscle, were used in 56% of repairs. The fistula was successfully closed in 93.9% of patients.

Conclusions

Regardless of complexity, RUFs have an initial closure rate of 93.9%.
Female Genital Mutilations: Genito-Urinary Complications and Ethical-Legal Aspects
Authors: Velia Marco , Argo Antonina , Costanzo Angela , Tarantino Lucia , Milone Livio , Pavone Carlo
Published: March 2015

Many women in the world are still undergoing female genital mutilations (FGMs) even if in almost all the countries, the practice of FGM is illegal. The increase of immigration, particularly from African Countries, to Europe, and Italy too, led to consider this phenomenon with particular attention and skill. All the operators in health services need to know the different types of FGMs and the related complications and the psychological and sexual sequels. Urological complications, in particular, are not rare and the changing anatomy of the external genital apparatus can also make the catheter insertion sometimes difficult. This review analyzes the epidemiology of FGMs, the reasons why the practice is still made, the complications, the ethical, and the principal legal aspects of this practise that must be hopefully early banned.
Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Vitaros©/Virirec© (Alprostadil Cream) for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Moncada Ignacio , Cuzin Béatrice
Published: March 2015

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a very common disorder with a deep impact on patients and their partners. Several options are now available for treating ED; oral pharmacotherapy with phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors currently represents the first-line option for many ED patients. Vitaros©/Virirec© is new topical, non-invasive treatment for ED that offers the combination of an active drug (alprostadil, a synthetic PGE1) with a skin enhancer that improves its local absorption directly at the site of action. Vitaros©/Virirec© has a favorable pharmacodynamic profile and is poorly absorbed in systemic circulation. This makes it suitable in any circumstances and results in a reduced risk of adverse events (AEs), being systemic AEs reported in only 3% of the treated population. Its clinical efficacy has been demonstrated in both phase II and III trials, showing a global efficacy up to 83% with the 300 μg dose in patients with severe ED significantly better than placebo. Its fast onset of action together with its favorable toxicity profile and lack of interactions with other drugs makes Vitaros©/Virirec© a first-line therapeutic option for patients with ED, particularly for individuals who are reluctant to take systemic treatments or with AEs. It may also have an important role in patients not responding to PDE5 inhibitors, particularly those with ED after radical prostatectomy.
Ancient Greek Deathscapes
Authors: Dimakis Nikolas
Published: March 2015

Personal, yet utterly universal. Inevitable, yet unknowable. Death has been a dominant theme in all cultures since time immemorial. Central to the theme of death is the burial of the dead in cemeteries. But death also unfolds in other areas such as natural spaces, places of worship, and battlefields. These then become places of intense private and personal significance, which simultaneously act as shared collective sites of experience and remembrance. This article seeks to provide an insight into “deathscapes” and the relationship between space, place, and death in the Classical period by drawing on published archaeological evidence, mainly from southern Greece, and sociological and anthropological theory.
Peripheral Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Candidate Cells Responsible for Healing Critical-Sized Calvarial Bone Defects
Authors: Li Shaowei , Huang Ke-Jung , Wu Jen-Chieh , Hu Michael S. , Sanyal Mrinmoy , Hu Min , Longaker Michael T. , Lorenz H. Peter
Published: March 2015

Postnatal tissue-specific stem/progenitor cells hold great promise to enhance repair of damaged tissues. Many of these cells are retrieved from bone marrow or adipose tissue via invasive procedures. Peripheral blood is an ideal alternative source for the stem/progenitor cells because of its ease of retrieval. We present a coculture system that routinely produces a group of cells from adult peripheral blood. Treatment with these cells enhanced healing of critical-size bone defects in the mouse calvarium, a proof of principle that peripheral blood-derived cells can be used to heal bone defects. From these cells, we isolated a subset of CD45− cells with a fibroblastic morphology. The CD45− cells were responsible for most of the differentiation-induced calcification activity and were most likely responsible for the enhanced healing process. These CD45− fibroblastic cells are plastic-adherent and exhibit a surface marker profile negative for CD34, CD19, CD11b, lineage, and c-kit and positive for stem cell antigen 1, CD73, CD44, CD90.1, CD29, CD105, CD106, and CD140α. Furthermore, these cells exhibited osteogenesis, chondrogenesis, and adipogenesis capabilities. The CD45− fibroblastic cells are the first peripheral blood-derived cells that fulfill the criteria of mesenchymal stem cells as defined by the International Society for Cellular Therapy. We have named these cells “blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells.”
Stochastic Modeling of Solar Flare Duration at Pakistan Atmospheric Region
Authors: Saifuddin Ahmed Jilani  , M. Ayub Khan Yousuf Zai  , Afaq Ahmed Siddiqui
Published: March 2015

Energy incident from the Sun is the chief deriving force responsible for all physical process existing in our terrestrial system. It is interesting to note that solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation created ozone in our stratosphere by the dissociation of O2 molecules. On the other hand, the streams of solar particle flux deplete ozone by creating NOx in our atmosphere. It is therefore, an important task to quantify the contribution of solar activity on OLD with the scientific assurance. In this communication the stochastic models of solar flare duration as solar activity have been investigated. Digisonde, at SUPARCO, HQ one of the ground based device provide us the record of solar flare duration by investigating the ionosphere disturbance. The behavior of solar activity have accomplished by the stochastic modeling in addition to their residual analysis. Since there are two major kinds of flares, it is necessary to establish what the different parametric configurations that causes their difference and their behavior in solar terrestrial relationship. Evidences suggest that gradual flares may become serious threat for our atmospheric and terrestrial disturbances. Their frequency most closely related with high activity periods. However sometimes this could be accomplished in low activity period as well. Hence, it is quite relevant to study theoretical and observational aspects of both high and low activity periods. The data recorded from March 1979 to March 2006 was consisting of mixed flares.
Effect of Taro Starch-Hydrocolloids Mixture as a Functional Ingredient on the Quality of Milk Dessert
Authors: Feroz Alam  , Anjum Nawab  , Tanveer Abbas  , Mohib Kazimi  , Abid Hasnain
Published: March 2015

The study was carried out to investigate the effect of taro starch-hydrocolloids mixture on the physical and sensory properties of milk dessert. Four different hydrocolloid i.e. arabic, Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), guar and xanthan gums were mixed with taro starch in different concentration and their potential use in milk dessert as functional ingredients were evaluated. Physical and sensory characteristics were found to be considerably improved in different aspects by adding these functional ingredients. Taro starch-arabic gum blend was observed to be an effective additive to produce creamy texture of milk dessert. Syneresis from dessert was noted to be diminished and sensory characteristics were also found to be improved by adding taro starch-guar gum blend. Similarly, taro starch-xanthan gum blend has effectively been stabilized the texture and sensory properties of milk dessert.
Manger ou être mangé : enjeux cliniques relatifs à l’incorporation dans l’intervention auprès de patients psychotiques adultes
Authors: L’Archevêque Alexandre , Bourgeois-Guérin Élise
Published: March 2015

Le sujet psychotique dont le délire est à fleur de peau ne formule pas la demande que s’opère chez lui une transformation. Celle-ci s’avère d’autant plus menaçante pour le Moi fragile qu’elle n’est tout simplement pas mentalisable lorsque prédomine l’oralité au sein du fonctionnement psychique. Fondé sur des observations cliniques, cet article situe les modalités manger/être mangé dans le contexte de l’intervention auprès de patients psychotiques adultes. L’incorporation du sujet au sein d’un espace symbiotique, puis transitionnel, est comprise comme préalable au processus d’individuation.
Rencontre et discours de la méthode
Authors: Krymko-Bleton Irène
Published: March 2015

La recherche d’orientation psychanalytique ne va pas de soi à l’université, tant à cause du paradoxe de la transmission du savoir analytique par une pédagogie, qu’à cause de conceptions actuellement prédominantes sur la nature de la recherche universitaire (en tout cas, en psychologie). Le présent article fait écho à l’appel lancé il y a une dizaine d’années par Sophie de Mijolla-Mellor pour un « décentrement » de la recherche psychanalytique. L’auteure présente deux exemples de travaux universitaires où sont directement mises à profit pragmatique, analyse de discours et autres disciplines étudiant les échanges langagiers, afin de développer la recherche d’orientation psychanalytique.
International-Local Visionary, Policy Advocate and Formidable Networker: The Life, Times and Work of Jarl Bengtsson
Authors: Schuetze Hans G. , Duke Chris
Published: March 2015

The authors show ways in which Jarl Bengtsson, a Swedish social scientist and policy analyst, has influenced international policy making. As a member and later director of the OECD's Centre for Educational Research and Innovation from the beginning of the 1970s to the end of the twentieth century, he has contributed to the international discussion as well as on concrete policy initiatives for lifelong learning as a comprehensive concept for education and other forms of learning outside the formal education system. He was convinced that only such a wider concept would provide equal opportunity to many groups disadvantaged under the present education system, especially adults, indigenous groups, people residing in remote areas, learners from low socio-economic backgrounds and people with disabilities. Since ‘lifelong learning’ does not start after school, the foundations being built well before, he was also emphasising that learning during one's lifetime was dependent on other enabling and motivational factors such as brain development and early childhood education.
The Impact of Place in Building Human Capability
Authors: Garlick Steve
Published: March 2015

While it is accepted that there are ‘sensitive’ and ‘critical’ periods of life during which certain human capabilities are more readily acquired, and where the multiplied returns on our investment in human capability building are more significant, it is also argued that there are place-based contexts (society, nature, culture, economy) that are sensitive and critical in their relational contribution to such success. The discussion of the role of the regional milieu in enhancing human capability naturally raises questions about the engaged role of the learning institution, particularly the university, and the way pedagogy is designed and delivered. Human capital planning and actions that take into account capability enhancement at critical and sensitive stages of life and in critical and sensitive places of attachment appear to be useful initiatives in which universities could take the lead in their engagement with other formal and informal education sectors and with the wider communities in which they are located. Värmland region in west central Sweden is given as a successful example of human capability planning and building through engaged learning with place.
Meeting of Minds and Futures: The Nature of Knowledge in Diverse Global Settings
Authors: Hoppers Catherine A. Odora , Sandgren Björn
Published: March 2015

When we think of communities of the future, we have to think of new social contracts between universities and society with a different ecology, and an intense compatibility towards transdisciplinarity. We know that today there is a need for truly fundamental reflections and questions on knowledge as the building block of global societies worldwide. But we suffer from a lack of clear understanding of what is the ‘definition’ of the knowledge that we are talking about. Universities are awash with literature on knowledge societies, knowledge economies, and scientific knowledge, but there is no notion of the social contract that should underpin the different understandings of knowledge as they reveal themselves in diverse settings.

This article summarises many conversations between the two co-authors with Jarl Bengtsson as they battled to find answers to these pertinent questions and some of the deep issues facing the whole of humanity.
What Guarantees Should Society Offer its Youth?
Authors: Brooks Chris
Published: March 2015

Criticising the concept of a ‘youth guarantee’ as it was understood by the OECD in the 1990s and recently again by the European Community, the author argues that just more schooling and training will not help, let alone guarantee a future for disadvantaged, unemployed young people. Rather any policy that wants to help youth to become creative, skilful, self-reliant and ultimately successful must address the bigger problems of society and the economic and financial systems. Only when the larger environment is changed – and the author recognises that this change will not be a quick fix but take many years, even decades – is there a chance for young people to use their talents and initiative to become innovative, creative and engaged, not just in the labour market and economic system but in society.
Structural dynamics of myosin 5 during processive motion revealed by interferometric scattering microscopy
Authors: Andrecka Joanna , Ortega Arroyo Jaime , Takagi Yasuharu , de Wit Gabrielle , Fineberg Adam , MacKinnon Lachlan , Young Gavin , Sellers James R , Kukura Philipp
Published: March 2015

Myosin 5a is a dual-headed molecular motor that transports cargo along actin filaments. By following the motion of individual heads with interferometric scattering microscopy at nm spatial and ms temporal precision we found that the detached head occupies a loosely fixed position to one side of actin from which it rebinds in a controlled manner while executing a step. Improving the spatial precision to the sub-nm regime provided evidence for an ångstrom-level structural transition in the motor domain associated with the power stroke. Simultaneous tracking of both heads revealed that consecutive steps follow identical paths to the same side of actin in a compass-like spinning motion demonstrating a symmetrical walking pattern. These results visualize many of the critical unknown aspects of the stepping mechanism of myosin 5 including head–head coordination, the origin of lever-arm motion and the spatiotemporal dynamics of the translocating head during individual steps.
A map of directional genetic interactions in a metazoan cell
Authors: Fischer Bernd , Sandmann Thomas , Horn Thomas , Billmann Maximilian , Chaudhary Varun , Huber Wolfgang , Boutros Michael
Published: March 2015

Gene–gene interactions shape complex phenotypes and modify the effects of mutations during development and disease. The effects of statistical gene–gene interactions on phenotypes have been used to assign genes to functional modules. However, directional, epistatic interactions, which reflect regulatory relationships between genes, have been challenging to map at large-scale. Here, we used combinatorial RNA interference and automated single-cell phenotyping to generate a large genetic interaction map for 21 phenotypic features of Drosophila cells. We devised a method that combines genetic interactions on multiple phenotypes to reveal directional relationships. This network reconstructed the sequence of protein activities in mitosis. Moreover, it revealed that the Ras pathway interacts with the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodelling complex, an interaction that we show is conserved in human cancer cells. Our study presents a powerful approach for reconstructing directional regulatory networks and provides a resource for the interpretation of functional consequences of genetic alterations.
Ventromedial hypothalamic neurons control a defensive emotion state
Authors: Kunwar Prabhat S , Zelikowsky Moriel , Remedios Ryan , Cai Haijiang , Yilmaz Melis , Meister Markus , Anderson David J
Published: March 2015

Defensive behaviors reflect underlying emotion states, such as fear. The hypothalamus plays a role in such behaviors, but prevailing textbook views depict it as an effector of upstream emotion centers, such as the amygdala, rather than as an emotion center itself. We used optogenetic manipulations to probe the function of a specific hypothalamic cell type that mediates innate defensive responses. These neurons are sufficient to drive multiple defensive actions, and required for defensive behaviors in diverse contexts. The behavioral consequences of activating these neurons, moreover, exhibit properties characteristic of emotion states in general, including scalability, (negative) valence, generalization and persistence. Importantly, these neurons can also condition learned defensive behavior, further refuting long-standing claims that the hypothalamus is unable to support emotional learning and therefore is not an emotion center. These data indicate that the hypothalamus plays an integral role to instantiate emotion states, and is not simply a passive effector of upstream emotion centers.
Altered structural network in temporal lobe epilepsy with focal to bilateral tonic–clonic seizures
Authors: Ge Yi , Chen Cong , Li Hong , Wang Ruyi , Yang Yuyu , Ye Lingqi , He Chenmin , Chen Ruotong , Wang Zijian , Shao Xiaotong , Gong Yuting , Yang Linglin , Wang Shan , Zhou Jiping , Wu Xunyi , Wang Shuang , Ding Yao
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study aims to investigate whether alterations in white matter topological networks are associated with focal to bilateral tonic–clonic seizures (FBTCS) in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Additionally, we investigated the variables contributing to memory impairment in TLE.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 88 unilateral people with TLE (45 left/43 right), and 42 healthy controls. Graph theory analysis was employed to compare the FBTCS (+) group (n = 51) with the FBTCS (−) group (n = 37). The FBTCS (+) group was subcategorized into current‐FBTCS (n = 31) and remote‐FBTCS (n = 20), based on the history of FBTCS within 1 year or longer than 1 year before scanning, respectively. We evaluated the discriminatory power of topological network properties by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Generalized linear models (GLMs) were employed to investigate variables associated with memory impairment in TLE.

Results

Global efficiency (Eg) was significantly reduced in the FBTCS (+) group, especially in the current‐FBTCS subgroup. Greater disruption of regional properties in the ipsilateral occipital and temporal association cortices was observed in the FBTCS (+) group. ROC analysis revealed that Eg, normalized characteristic shortest path length, and nodal efficiency of the ipsilateral middle temporal gyrus could distinguish between FBTCS (+) and FBTCS (−) groups. Additionally, GLMs linked the occurrence of current FBTCS with poorer verbal memory outcomes in TLE.

Interpretation

Our study suggests that abnormal networks could be the structural basis of seizure propagation in FBTCS. Strategies aimed at reducing the occurrence of FBTCS could potentially improve the memory outcomes in people with TLE.
Multifunctional Yb3Si2C2 with High‐Performance Terahertz Shielding for Future 6G Communications
Authors: Qiu Nianxiang , Zhou Xiaobing , Huang Qing , Ye Jichun , Du Shiyu
Published: August 2024

The development of next‐generation 6G communications is anticipated to expand into extreme environments, necessitating superior terahertz (THz) electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials. Herein, structural stability, electronic and optical properties of rare earth silicide carbide Yb3Si2C2 are investigated using first principles density functional calculations and semi‐classical Boltzmann transport theory. The calculation results show Yb3Si2C2 is determined to be experimentally synthesized with high temperature stability with a certain fluctuating C2 pair orientation. In addition, Yb3Si2C2 is identified as a soft, tough, and damage‐resistant ceramic with low shear deformation resistance and easy cleavage, ensuring its durability in irradiation environments. Due to the layered structure and excellent electrical conductivity, Yb3Si2C2 demonstrates high reflectivity and low transmittance for terahertz electromagnetic waves, along with 62% solar absorptivity and 33% IR emissivity. Remarkably, the total shielding effectiveness of Yb3Si2C2 with thicknesses of 5 µm and above follows the widely‐used Simon's formula. The average total shielding effectiveness of 5 µm‐thick and 10 µm‐thick Yb3Si2C2 across the entire THz region reaches 63 and 110 dB, respectively, which turns out to be the top compared to the results reported. Therefore, the multifunctional intrinsic properties of Yb3Si2C2 materials hold great promise for miniaturized, high‐performance terahertz EMI shielding, even in extreme environments.
Highly Safe, Ultra‐Thin MOF‐Based Solid Polymer Electrolytes for Superior All‐Solid‐State Lithium‐Metal Battery Performance
Authors: Nguyen Manh Cuong , Nguyen Hoang Long , Duong Thi Phuong Mai , Kim Sung‐Hoon , Kim Ji‐Young , Bae Jee‐Hwan , Kim Hyun‐Kyung , Lim Sung Nam , Ahn Wook
Published: August 2024

Polyethylene oxide (PEO)/lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) is among the most promising candidates for developing solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) for all‐solid‐state lithium‐metal batteries (ASSLMBs). However, practical applications of the PEO/LiTFSI system face challenges due to its relatively low ionic conductivity and low Li+ transference number. To address these issues, a method is proposed that incorporates multiple components, including zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIF‐67) as fillers and ionic liquid electrolytes (ILEs) as plasticizers, into a PEO/LiTFSI matrix. By optimizing the fabrication process, ultra‐thin membranes of the integrated electrolyte PEO/LiTFSI‐ILE‐ZIF‐67 (PLiZ) with a thickness of 32 µm are developed, achieving high ionic conductivity (1.19 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 25 °C), broad electrochemical stability (5.66 V), and high lithium‐ion mobility (0.8). As a result, the fabricated ASSLMBs exhibited excellent cycle stability at both room temperature and 60 °C, delivering an initial specific discharge capacity of 166.4 mAh g−1 and an impressive capacity retention of 83.7% after 1000 cycles at 3C under 60 °C, corresponding to a low fading rate of 0.0163% per cycle. Additionally, the designed SPEs demonstrated high safety properties, as shown by the successful cutting and folding of a working LiFePO4/PLiZ/Li pouch cell. Therefore, this study presents a comprehensively improved method for developing high‐performance ASSLMBs.
Fabrication Strategies for Bioinspired and Functional Lung‐on‐Chips
Authors: Doryab Ali , Braig Johannes , Jungst Tomasz , Ryma Matthias , Groll Jürgen
Published: August 2024

Lung‐on‐chips (LoCs) are advanced microsystems designed to culture pulmonary cells under physiologically relevant conditions, including air–liquid interface, cell stretch, and shear stress. As the most promising preclinical models, the LoCs are aimed to reduce and ultimately replace conventional ineffective animal studies. Biomimetic and functional LoCs lead to more translational preclinical studies that effectively address unmet needs across therapeutic areas. A variety of cell‐ and scaffold‐based techniques are employed to establish biomimetic pulmonary cell models that closely resemble their in vivo counterparts, which is a challenging yet critical aspect of LoCs. Herein, the challenges encountered in biomimetic LoCs are discussed, and the future perspectives toward higher biomimicry using advanced biofabrication approaches are explored.
1 µm‐Thick Robust Gel Polymer Electrolyte with Excellent Interfacial Stability for High‐Performance Li Metal Batteries
Authors: Feng Jianwen , Wang Jiayi , Gu Qiao , Li Pingting , Xu Hongli , Deng Yonghong , Gao Ping
Published: August 2024

Gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) hold great promise for lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs). Nevertheless, a critical challenge lies in reducing the thickness of GPEs while maintaining their mechanical integrity to achieve high‐energy‐density LMBs. Additionally, protecting the Li metal anode via electrolyte engineering in GPEs remains demanding. Herein, an innovative ultrathin (1 µm‐thick) yet robust GPE developed using an in situ curing technique, featuring a nanofibrous, exceptionally strong polyethylene separator is presented. The unique microstructure, interfacial conformability, and ultrahigh mechanical robustness of the ultrathin polyethylene separator are thoroughly verified. Enhanced ionic association within the GPE is achieved due to the strong affinity of electrolyte solvent with the fluorinated polymer network, as confirmed by large‐scale molecular dynamics simulations. The optimized solvation structure with high contact ion pairs and aggregate fractions contributes to forming an anion‐derived inorganic‐rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), thereby protecting the lithium anode. Benefiting from the ultrahigh robustness of GPE and the excellent interfacial stability, the Li metal full cell with a high mass loading LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode (≈17.3 mg cm−2) and thin Li foil anode (50 µm) demonstrates 91% capacity retention after 200 cycles. This design demonstrates a feasible approach toward the practical quasi‐solid‐state LMBs.
In‐Depth Understanding of Interfacial Na+ Behaviors in Sodium Metal Anode: Migration, Desolvation, and Deposition
Authors: Huang Fei , Xu Peng , Fang Guozhao , Liang Shuquan
Published: August 2024

Interfacial Na+ behaviors of sodium (Na) anode severely threaten the stability of sodium‐metal batteries (SMBs). This review systematically and in‐depth discusses the current fundamental understanding of interfacial Na+ behaviors in SMBs including Na+ migration, desolvation, diffusion, nucleation, and deposition. The key influencing factors and optimization strategies of these behaviors are further summarized and discussed. More importantly, the high‐energy‐density anode‐free sodium metal batteries (AFSMBs) are highlighted by addressing key issues in the areas of limited Na sources and irreversible Na loss. Simultaneously, recent advanced characterization techniques for deeper insights into interfacial Na+ deposition behavior and composition information of SEI film are spotlighted to provide guidance for the advancement of SMBs and AFSMBs. Finally, the prominent perspectives are presented to guide and promote the development of SMBs and AFSMBs.
Standardized evaluation methodology for renal cortical blood perfusion in elderly patients using contrast‐enhanced ultrasound: A Chinese expert consensus (2024 edition)
Authors: Junhong Ren , Wen He
Published: August 2024

As a sensitive and non‐invasive method for assessing changes in renal cortical blood perfusion in the elderly, contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) can indirectly reflect changes in kidney filtration and reabsorption function, thus providing feasibility for early evaluation of renal function changes. However, significant differences exist among researchers in terms of operational methods, contrast agent selection, post‐data analysis, and many other aspects, leading to substantial heterogeneity in results. This hinders horizontal comparisons and greatly limits the clinical application of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound for evaluating renal cortical blood flow perfusion. Based on the latest domestic and overseas literature and discussions with clinical experts, this consensus provides recommended guidelines for the evaluation of renal cortical blood flow perfusion using contrast‐enhanced ultrasound. It is hoped that this consensus will promote a better understanding of CEUS among medical practitioners at all levels and standardize the examination of renal cortical blood flow perfusion with CEUS.
Vitamin B12 status and skeletal muscle function among elderly: A literature review and pilot study on the effect of oral vitamin B12 supplementation in improving muscle function
Authors: Sharma Sowmya , Bhadra Rohini , Selvam Sumithra , Sambashivaiah Sucharita
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study is to understand the role of vitamin B12 supplementation in improving skeletal muscle function among the elderly.

Methods

A literature review in the Medline database was conducted to understand the association between vitamin B12 and muscle function in Section A. In Section B, 28 healthy elderly participants aged ≥60 years were recruited in a cross‐sectional design for estimation of plasma vitamin B12 status and assessment of upper limb muscle strength Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and muscle quality (expressed as MVC/total muscle mass). Participants were grouped based on vitamin B12 status into vitamin B12‐depleted (<148 pmol/L) and replete (≥148 pmol/L) groups. In a quasi‐experimental study design, the vitamin B12‐depleted group (n = 14) received daily oral vitamin B12 supplementation of 100 μg for 3 months. All the study measures were repeated post‐supplementation.

Results

Vitamin B12 deficiency was identified to contribute adversely to muscle strength, quality, and physical performance among older people in the extensive literature review. The pilot intervention study showed significant improvement in MVC and muscle quality (p < 0.050) post‐vitamin B12 supplementation, comparable to the vitamin B12‐replete group.

Conclusions

Vitamin B12 may have a crucial role in the maintenance of muscle function. 3‐month oral vitamin B12 supplementation among subclinical vitamin B12 deficient elderly improved muscle strength and quality and reached levels similar to the vitamin B12 replete group.
Intra‐tumoral and peripheral blood TIGIT and PD‐1 as immune biomarkers in nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Gunawardana Jay , Law Soi C. , Sabdia Muhammed B. , Fennell Éanna , Hennessy Aoife , Leahy Ciara I. , Murray Paul G. , Bednarska Karolina , Brosda Sandra , Trotman Judith , Berkahn Leanne , Zaharia Andreea , Birch Simone , Burgess Melinda , Talaulikar Dipti , Lee Justina N. , Jude Emily , Hawkes Eliza A. , Jain Sanjiv , Nath Karthik , Snell Cameron , Swain Fiona , Tobin Joshua W. D. , Keane Colm , Shanavas Mohamed , Blyth Emily , Steidl Christian , Savage Kerry , Farinha Pedro , Boyle Merrill , Meissner Barbara , Green Michael R. , Vega Francisco , Gandhi Maher K.
Published: August 2024

In classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), responsiveness to immune‐checkpoint blockade (ICB) is associated with specific tumor microenvironment (TME) and peripheral blood features. The role of ICB in nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (NLPHL) is not established. To gain insights into its potential in NLPHL, we compared TME and peripheral blood signatures between HLs using an integrative multiomic analysis. A discovery/validation approach in 121 NLPHL and 114 cHL patients highlighted >2‐fold enrichment in programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1) and T‐cell Ig and ITIM domain (TIGIT) gene expression for NLPHL versus cHL. Multiplex imaging showed marked increase in intra‐tumoral protein expression of PD‐1+ (and/or TIGIT+) CD4+ T‐cells and PD‐1+CD8+ T‐cells in NLPHL compared to cHL. This included T‐cells that rosetted with lymphocyte predominant (LP) and Hodgkin Reed–Sternberg (HRS) cells. In NLPHL, intra‐tumoral PD‐1+CD4+ T‐cells frequently expressed TCF‐1, a marker of heightened T‐cell response to ICB. The peripheral blood signatures between HLs were also distinct, with higher levels of PD‐1+TIGIT+ in TH1, TH2, and regulatory CD4+ T‐cells in NLPHL versus cHL. Circulating PD‐1+CD4+ had high levels of TCF‐1. Notably, in both lymphomas, highly expanded populations of clonal TIGIT+PD‐1+CD4+ and TIGIT+PD‐1+CD8+ T‐cells in the blood were also present in the TME, indicating that immune‐checkpoint expressing T‐cells circulated between intra‐tumoral and blood compartments. In in vitro assays, ICB was capable of reducing rosette formation around LP and HRS cells, suggesting that disruption of rosetting may be a mechanism of action of ICB in HL. Overall, results indicate that further evaluation of ICB is warranted in NLPHL.
High prevalence of adult and nonadult scurvy in an early agricultural transition site from Mainland Southeast Asia was associated with decreased survivorship
Authors: Vlok Melandri , Oxenham Marc , Domett Kate , Trinh Hiep Hoang , Minh Tran Thi , Nguyen Mai Huong , Matsumura Hirofumi , Buckley Hallie
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The osteological paradox recognizes that the presence of lesions is not always directly related with increased mortality. When combined with the clinical, historical, and epidemiological literature on scurvy, survivorship analysis, a form of statistical analysis to assess the relationship between the presence of diseases in the archeological record and survival, helps determine the overall burden of the disease both in terms of morbidity and mortality. This article explores the relationship between scurvy and survivorship in 26 adults from Man Bac, a Neolithic site from northern Vietnam together with prepublished evidence of scurvy in the nonadult population (n = 44).

Methods

Diagnosis of scurvy included differential diagnosis combined with the Snoddy, A. M. E., Buckley, H. R., Elliott, G. E., Standen, V. G., Arriaza, B. T., & Halcrow, S. E. (2018). Macroscopic features of scurvy in human skeletal remains: A literature synthesis and diagnostic guide. American Journal of Physical Anthropology, 167(4), 876–895. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajpa.23699 threshold criteria and the Brickley, M. B., & Morgan, B. (2023). Assessing diagnostic certainty for scurvy and rickets in human skeletal remains. American Journal of Biological Anthropology, 181, 637–645 diagnostic certainty approaches. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were produced to assess the relationship between the presence of probable scurvy and age‐at‐death.

Results

The prevalence of probable scurvy in adults (35%) was considerably lower than reported for the nonadults (80%). Almost all lesions observed in the adults were in a mixed stage of healing. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated no difference in survivorship between infants and children (<15 years) with or without probable scurvy, whereas a meaningful difference was observed for the adults and adolescents (15+ years).

Conclusions

The findings demonstrate that scurvy considerably decreased survivorship to older age categories. The degree of lesion remodeling, however, indicates that scurvy was not necessarily the direct cause of death but contributed to an overall disease burden that was ultimately fatal.
Preparation of low‐temperature curing single‐component epoxy adhesives with sedimentation coated accelerators
Authors: Zhao Yanxin , Pan Zhijian , Han Xu , Chen Xueke , Wang Zeqian , Liu Feng
Published: August 2024

Single‐component epoxy adhesives are widely used in various fields due to their simple operation process and excellent bonding properties. However, the excessively high curing temperature of the traditional single‐component epoxy adhesives may easily damage the electronic devices, limiting their further application. Hence, it is of great significance to develop the low‐temperature‐curing single‐component epoxy adhesives. However, the room temperature storage stability of low‐temperature curing system is generally poor. This work selected epoxy resin (EPON‐828), pentaerythritol tetra (3‐mercaptopropionate) (PETMP), 1‐benzylimidazole (1‐BMZ), and stabilizer (salicylic acid) as materials to prepare low‐temperature curing single‐component epoxy adhesives. In order to improve the storage stability of the system, polycarbonate (PCM‐A‐37) with low molecular weight was employed to coat the accelerator 1‐BMZ by physical sedimentation. The results showed that the room temperature storage period of the system reached 140 h, which was 2.18 times longer than before coating, and the curing temperature of 75°C was determined through DSC curves fitting. The epoxy adhesives have been completely cured at 75°C for 5 h, and shear strength reached 10.20 ± 0.51 MPa, which was not significantly different from that of the system with uncoated accelerators. We believe our paradigm can provide a feasible approach for preparing low‐temperature curing single‐component epoxy adhesives, and has reference significance for the preparation of single‐component adhesives in other systems, too.