bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive modelling of response to neoadjuvant therapy in HER2+ breast cancer
Authors: Cosgrove Nicola , Eustace Alex J. , O’Donovan Peter , Madden Stephen F. , Moran Bruce , Crown John , Moulton Brian , Morris Patrick G. , Grogan Liam , Breathnach Oscar , Power Colm , Allen Michael , Walshe Janice M. , Hill Arnold D. , Blümel Anna , O’Connor Darren , Das Sudipto , Milewska Małgorzata , Fay Joanna , Kay Elaine , Toomey Sinead , Hennessy Bryan T. , Furney Simon J.
Published: September 2023

HER2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer accounts for 20–25% of all breast cancers. Predictive biomarkers of neoadjuvant therapy response are needed to better identify patients with early stage disease who may benefit from tailored treatments in the adjuvant setting. As part of the TCHL phase-II clinical trial (ICORG10–05/NCT01485926) whole exome DNA sequencing was carried out on normal-tumour pairs collected from 22 patients. Here we report predictive modelling of neoadjuvant therapy response using clinicopathological and genomic features of pre-treatment tumour biopsies identified age, estrogen receptor (ER) status and level of immune cell infiltration may together be important for predicting response. Clonal evolution analysis of longitudinally collected tumour samples show subclonal diversity and dynamics are evident with potential therapy resistant subclones detected. The sources of greater pre-treatment immunogenicity associated with a pathological complete response is largely unexplored in HER2+ tumours. However, here we point to the possibility of APOBEC associated mutagenesis, specifically in the ER-neg/HER2+ subtype as a potential mediator of this immunogenic phenotype.
A quantum engine in the BEC–BCS crossover
Authors: Koch Jennifer , Menon Keerthy , Cuestas Eloisa , Barbosa Sian , Lutz Eric , Fogarty Thomás , Busch Thomas , Widera Artur
Published: September 2023

Heat engines convert thermal energy into mechanical work both in the classical and quantum regimes1. However, quantum theory offers genuine non-classical forms of energy, different from heat, which so far have not been exploited in cyclic engines. Here we experimentally realize a quantum many-body engine fuelled by the energy difference between fermionic and bosonic ensembles of ultracold particles that follows from the Pauli exclusion principle2. We employ a harmonically trapped superfluid gas of6Li atoms close to a magnetic Feshbach resonance3that allows us to effectively change the quantum statistics from Bose–Einstein to Fermi–Dirac, by tuning the gas between a Bose–Einstein condensate of bosonic molecules and a unitary Fermi gas (and back) through a magnetic field4–10. The quantum nature of such a Pauli engine is revealed by contrasting it with an engine in the classical thermal regime and with a purely interaction-driven device. We obtain a work output of several 106vibrational quanta per cycle with an efficiency of up to 25%. Our findings establish quantum statistics as a useful thermodynamic resource for work production.
Observation of the effect of gravity on the motion of antimatter
Authors: Anderson E. K. , Baker C. J. , Bertsche W. , Bhatt N. M. , Bonomi G. , Capra A. , Carli I. , Cesar C. L. , Charlton M. , Christensen A. , Collister R. , Cridland Mathad A. , Duque Quiceno D. , Eriksson S. , Evans A. , Evetts N. , Fabbri S. , Fajans J. , Ferwerda A. , Friesen T. , Fujiwara M. C. , Gill D. R. , Golino L. M. , Gomes Gonçalves M. B. , Grandemange P. , Granum P. , Hangst J. S. , Hayden M. E. , Hodgkinson D. , Hunter E. D. , Isaac C. A. , Jimenez A. J. U. , Johnson M. A. , Jones J. M. , Jones S. A. , Jonsell S. , Khramov A. , Madsen N. , Martin L. , Massacret N. , Maxwell D. , McKenna J. T. K. , Menary S. , Momose T. , Mostamand M. , Mullan P. S. , Nauta J. , Olchanski K. , Oliveira A. N. , Peszka J. , Powell A. , Rasmussen C. Ø. , Robicheaux F. , Sacramento R. L. , Sameed M. , Sarid E. , Schoonwater J. , Silveira D. M. , Singh J. , Smith G. , So C. , Stracka S. , Stutter G. , Tharp T. D. , Thompson K. A. , Thompson R. I. , Thorpe-Woods E. , Torkzaban C. , Urioni M. , Woosaree P. , Wurtele J. S.
Published: September 2023

Einstein’s general theory of relativity from 19151 remains the most successful description of gravitation. From the 1919 solar eclipse2 to the observation of gravitational waves3, the theory has passed many crucial experimental tests. However, the evolving concepts of dark matter and dark energy illustrate that there is much to be learned about the gravitating content of the universe. Singularities in the general theory of relativity and the lack of a quantum theory of gravity suggest that our picture is incomplete. It is thus prudent to explore gravity in exotic physical systems. Antimatter was unknown to Einstein in 1915. Dirac’s theory4 appeared in 1928; the positron was observed5 in 1932. There has since been much speculation about gravity and antimatter. The theoretical consensus is that any laboratory mass must be attracted6 by the Earth, although some authors have considered the cosmological consequences if antimatter should be repelled by matter7–10. In the general theory of relativity, the weak equivalence principle (WEP) requires that all masses react identically to gravity, independent of their internal structure. Here we show that antihydrogen atoms, released from magnetic confinement in the ALPHA-g apparatus, behave in a way consistent with gravitational attraction to the Earth. Repulsive ‘antigravity’ is ruled out in this case. This experiment paves the way for precision studies of the magnitude of the gravitational acceleration between anti-atoms and the Earth to test the WEP.
Inhibition of fatty acid oxidation enables heart regeneration in adult mice
Authors: Li Xiang , Wu Fan , Günther Stefan , Looso Mario , Kuenne Carsten , Zhang Ting , Wiesnet Marion , Klatt Stephan , Zukunft Sven , Fleming Ingrid , Poschet Gernot , Wietelmann Astrid , Atzberger Ann , Potente Michael , Yuan Xuejun , Braun Thomas
Published: September 2023

Postnatal maturation of cardiomyocytes is characterized by a metabolic switch from glycolysis to fatty acid oxidation, chromatin reconfiguration and exit from the cell cycle, instating a barrier for adult heart regeneration1,2. Here, to explore whether metabolic reprogramming can overcome this barrier and enable heart regeneration, we abrogate fatty acid oxidation in cardiomyocytes by inactivation of Cpt1b. We find that disablement of fatty acid oxidation in cardiomyocytes improves resistance to hypoxia and stimulates cardiomyocyte proliferation, allowing heart regeneration after ischaemia–reperfusion injury. Metabolic studies reveal profound changes in energy metabolism and accumulation of α-ketoglutarate in Cpt1b-mutant cardiomyocytes, leading to activation of the α-ketoglutarate-dependent lysine demethylase KDM5 (ref. 3). Activated KDM5 demethylates broad H3K4me3 domains in genes that drive cardiomyocyte maturation, lowering their transcription levels and shifting cardiomyocytes into a less mature state, thereby promoting proliferation. We conclude that metabolic maturation shapes the epigenetic landscape of cardiomyocytes, creating a roadblock for further cell divisions. Reversal of this process allows repair of damaged hearts.
Comprehensive analysis of TLX2 in pan cancer as a prognostic and immunologic biomarker and validation in ovarian cancer
Authors: Chen Buze , Ding Xiaojuan , Wan Ailing , Qi Xin , Lin Xiaoman , Wang Haihong , Mu Wenyu , Wang Gang , Zheng Junnian
Published: September 2023

T cell leukemia homeobox 2 (TLX2) plays an important role in some tumors. Bioinformatics and experimental validation represent a useful way to explore the mechanisms and functions of TLX2 gene in the cancer disease process from a pan cancer perspective. TLX2 was aberrantly expressed in pan cancer and cell lines and correlated with clinical stage. High TLX2 expression was significantly associated with poor overall survival in COAD, KIRC, OC, and UCS. The greatest frequency of TLX2 alterations in pan cancer was amplification. Alterations of NXF2B, MSLNL, PCGF1, INO80B-WBP1, LBX2-AS1, MRPL53, LBX2, TTC31, WDR54, and WBP1 co-occurred in the TLX2 alteration group. PFS was significantly shorter in the TLX2-altered group (n = 6) compared to the TLX2-unaltered group (n = 400). Methylation levels of TLX2 were high in 17 tumors. TLX2 expression was associated with MSI in seven tumors and TMB in five tumors. TLX2 expression was associated with immune infiltration and immune checkpoint genes. TLX2 may be associated with some pathways and chemoresistance. We constructed a possible competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network of LINC01010/miR-146a-5p/TLX2 in OC. TLX2 expression was significantly upregulated in ovarian cancer cell lines compared to ovarian epithelial cell lines. Aberrant expression of TLX2 in pan cancer may promote tumorigenesis and progression through different mechanisms. TLX2 may represent an important therapeutic target for human cancers.
Multi-breed host rumen epithelium transcriptome and microbiome associations and their relationship with beef cattle feed efficiency
Authors: Fonseca P. A. S. , Lam S. , Chen Y. , Waters S. M. , Guan L. L. , Cánovas A.
Published: September 2023

Understanding host-microbial interactions in the rumen and its influence on desirable production traits may lead to potential microbiota manipulation or genetic selection for improved cattle feed efficiency. This study investigated the host transcriptome and its correlation with the rumen archaea and bacteria differential abundance of two pure beef cattle breeds (Angus and Charolais) and one composite beef hybrid (Kinsella) divergent for residual feed intake (RFI; low-RFI vs. high-RFI). Using RNA-Sequencing of rumen tissue and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, differentially expressed genes (FDR ≤ 0.05, |log2(Fold-change) >|2) and differentially abundant (p-value < 0.05) archaea and bacteria amplicon sequence variants (ASV) were determined. Significant correlations between gene expression and ASVs (p-value < 0.05) were determine using Spearman correlation. Interesting associations with muscle contraction and the modulation of the immune system were observed for the genes correlated with bacterial ASVs. Potential functional candidate genes for feed efficiency status were identified for Angus (CCL17, CCR3, and CXCL10), Charolais (KCNK9, GGT1 and IL6), and Kinsella breed (ESR2). The results obtained here provide more insights regarding the applicability of target host and rumen microbial traits for the selection and breeding of more feed efficient beef cattle.
Psychopathological profile before and after bariatric surgery
Authors: Benítez Tura , Caixàs Assumpta , Rebasa Pere , Luna Alexis , Crivillés Sara , Gutiérrez Teresa , Deus Joan
Published: September 2023

Presurgical psychopathological assessment usually focuses on detecting severe mental disorders. However, mild intensity psychopathology and eating behaviour pattern may also influence postsurgical outcomes. The aim was to identify psychopathology and eating behaviour pattern in candidates prepared for bariatric surgery compared to a normative population before and after surgery. A cohort of 32 patients seeking bariatric surgery in a university hospital between March 2016 and March 2017 were evaluated with Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI), 36‐item EDE‐Q and BES before and after surgery. Thirty-two patients before and 26 one year after surgery were included. The PAI presurgical psychometric profile suggested a mild mixed adjustment disorder focused on somatic complaints. After surgery, patients improved in somatic complaints (p < 0.001), and depression (p = 0.04). Related eating disorders were more common than those of the normative group and improved significantly after surgery in scores for compulsive intake (BES p < 0.001) and overall key behaviours of eating disorders and related cognitive symptoms (EDE-Q/G p < 0.001). In our cohort ready for bariatric surgery a mild psychopathological profile is still present and becomes closer to that of the normative group after surgery. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effects of mild psychopathology on outcomes after bariatric surgery.
Monitoring saliva compositions for non-invasive detection of diabetes using a colorimetric-based multiple sensor
Authors: Bordbar Mohammad Mahdi , Hosseini Mahboobeh Sadat , Sheini Azarmidokht , Safaei Elham , Halabian Raheleh , Daryanavard Seyed Mosayeb , Samadinia Hosein , Bagheri Hasan
Published: September 2023

The increasing population of diabetic patients, especially in developing countries, has posed a serious risk to the health sector, so that the lack of timely diagnosis and treatment process of diabetes can lead to threatening complications for the human lifestyle. Here, a multiple sensor was fabricated on a paper substrate for rapid detection and controlling the progress of the diabetes disease. The proposed sensor utilized the sensing ability of porphyrazines, pH-sensitive dyes and silver nanoparticles in order to detect the differences in saliva composition of diabetic and non-diabetic patients. A unique color map (sensor response) was obtained for each studied group, which can be monitored by a scanner. Moreover, a good correlation was observed between the colorimetric response resulting from the analysis of salivary composition and the fasting blood glucose (FBG) value measured by standard laboratory instruments. It was also possible to classify participants into two groups, including patients caused by diabetes and those were non-diabetic persons with a total accuracy of 88.9%. Statistical evaluations show that the multiple sensor can be employed as an effective and non-invasive device for continuous monitoring of diabetes, substantially in the elderly.
A computational stochastic procedure for solving the epidemic breathing transmission system
Authors: AbuAli Najah , Khan Muhammad Bilal , Sabir Zulqurnain
Published: September 2023

This work provides numerical simulations of the nonlinear breathing transmission epidemic system using the proposed stochastic scale conjugate gradient neural networks (SCGGNNs) procedure. The mathematical model categorizes the breathing transmission epidemic model into four dynamics based on a nonlinear stiff ordinary differential system: susceptible, exposed, infected, and recovered. Three different cases of the model are taken and numerically presented by applying the stochastic SCGGNNs. An activation function ‘log-sigmoid’ uses twenty neurons in the hidden layers. The precision of SCGGNNs is obtained by comparing the proposed and database solutions. While the negligible absolute error is performed around 10–06 to 10–07, it enhances the accuracy of the scheme. The obtained results of the breathing transmission epidemic system have been provided using the training, verification, and testing procedures to reduce the mean square error. Moreover, the exactness and capability of the stochastic SCGGNNs are approved through error histograms, regression values, correlation tests, and state transitions.
Combined optical line-of-sight and crosslink radiometric navigation for distributed deep-space systems
Authors: Casini Stefano , Turan Erdem , Cervone Angelo , Monna Bert , Visser Pieter
Published: September 2023

This manuscript aims to present and evaluate the applicability of combining optical line-of-sight (LoS) navigation with crosslink radiometric navigation for deep-space cruising distributed space systems. To do so, a set of four distributed space systems architectures is presented, and for each of those, the applicability of the combination is evaluated, comparing it to the baseline solutions, which are based on only optical navigation. The comparison is done by studying the performance in a circular heliocentric orbit in seven different time intervals (ranging from 2024 to 2032) and exploiting the observation of all the pairs of planets from Mercury to Saturn. The distance between spacecraft is kept around 200 km. Later, a NEA mission test case is generated in order to explore the applicability to a more realistic case. This analysis shows that the technique can also cope with a variable inter-satellite distance, and the best performance is obtained when the spacecraft get closer to each other.
Multimodal force and temperature tactile sensor based on a short-channel organic transistor with high sensitivity
Authors: Mascia Antonello , Spanu Andrea , Bonfiglio Annalisa , Cosseddu Piero
Published: September 2023

In this manuscript, we report on a novel architecture for the fabrication of highly sensitive multimodal tactile transducers, for the simultaneous detection of temperature and force. Such devices are based on a flexible Organic Charge Modulated Field Effect Transistor (OCMFET) coupled with a pyro/piezoelectric element, namely a commercial film of poly-vinylene difluoride (PVDF). The reduction of the channel length, obtained by employing a low-resolution vertical channel architecture, allowed to maximize the ratio between the sensing area and the transistor’s channel area, a technological approach that allows to considerably enhance both temperature and force sensitivity, while at the same time minimize the sensor’s dimensions. Thanks to the employment of a straightforward, up-scalable, and highly reproducible fabrication process, this solution represents an interesting alternative for all those applications requiring high-density, high-sensitivity sensors such as robotics and biomedical applications.
A study of dealing class imbalance problem with machine learning methods for code smell severity detection using PCA-based feature selection technique
Authors: Rao Rajwant Singh , Dewangan Seema , Mishra Alok , Gupta Manjari
Published: September 2023

Detecting code smells may be highly helpful for reducing maintenance costs and raising source code quality. Code smells facilitate developers or researchers to understand several types of design flaws. Code smells with high severity can cause significant problems for the software and may cause challenges for the system's maintainability. It is quite essential to assess the severity of the code smells detected in software, as it prioritizes refactoring efforts. The class imbalance problem also further enhances the difficulties in code smell severity detection. In this study, four code smell severity datasets (Data class, God class, Feature envy, and Long method) are selected to detect code smell severity. In this work, an effort is made to address the issue of class imbalance, for which, the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) class balancing technique is applied. Each dataset's relevant features are chosen using a feature selection technique based on principal component analysis. The severity of code smells is determined using five machine learning techniques: K-nearest neighbor, Random forest, Decision tree, Multi-layer Perceptron, and Logistic Regression. This study obtained the 0.99 severity accuracy score with the Random forest and Decision tree approach with the Long method code smell. The model's performance is compared based on its accuracy and three other performance measurements (Precision, Recall, and F-measure) to estimate severity classification models. The impact of performance is also compared and presented with and without applying SMOTE. The results obtained in the study are promising and can be beneficial for paving the way for further studies in this area.
Effectiveness of tuning an artificial intelligence algorithm for cerebral aneurysm diagnosis: a study of 10,000 consecutive cases
Authors: Kuwabara Masashi , Ikawa Fusao , Sakamoto Shigeyuki , Okazaki Takahito , Ishii Daizo , Hosogai Masahiro , Maeda Yuyo , Chiku Masaaki , Kitamura Naoyuki , Choppin Antoine , Takamiya Daisaku , Shimahara Yuki , Nakayama Takeo , Kurisu Kaoru , Horie Nobutaka
Published: September 2023

Diagnostic image analysis for unruptured cerebral aneurysms using artificial intelligence has a very high sensitivity. However, further improvement is needed because of a relatively high number of false positives. This study aimed to confirm the clinical utility of tuning an artificial intelligence algorithm for cerebral aneurysm diagnosis. We extracted 10,000 magnetic resonance imaging scans of participants who underwent brain screening using the “Brain Dock” system. The sensitivity and false positives/case for aneurysm detection were compared before and after tuning the algorithm. The initial diagnosis included only cases for which feedback to the algorithm was provided. In the primary analysis, the sensitivity of aneurysm diagnosis decreased from 96.5 to 90% and the false positives/case improved from 2.06 to 0.99 after tuning the algorithm (P < 0.001). In the secondary analysis, the sensitivity of aneurysm diagnosis decreased from 98.8 to 94.6% and the false positives/case improved from 1.99 to 1.03 after tuning the algorithm (P < 0.001). The false positives/case reduced without a significant decrease in sensitivity. Using large clinical datasets, we demonstrated that by tuning the algorithm, we could significantly reduce false positives with a minimal decline in sensitivity.
Minimum number of inertial measurement units needed to identify significant variations in walk patterns of overweight individuals walking on irregular surfaces
Authors: Sikandar Tasriva , Rabbi Mohammad Fazle , Ghazali Kamarul Hawari , Altwijri Omar , Almijalli Mohammed , Ahamed Nizam Uddin
Published: September 2023

Gait data collection from overweight individuals walking on irregular surfaces is a challenging task that can be addressed using inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensors. However, it is unclear how many IMUs are needed, particularly when body attachment locations are not standardized. In this study, we analysed data collected from six body locations, including the torso, upper and lower limbs, to determine which locations exhibit significant variation across different real-world irregular surfaces. We then used deep learning method to verify whether the IMU data recorded from the identified body locations could classify walk patterns across the surfaces. Our results revealed two combinations of body locations, including the thigh and shank (i.e., the left and right shank, and the right thigh and right shank), from which IMU data should be collected to accurately classify walking patterns over real-world irregular surfaces (with classification accuracies of 97.24 and 95.87%, respectively). Our findings suggest that the identified numbers and locations of IMUs could potentially reduce the amount of data recorded and processed to develop a fall prevention system for overweight individuals.
MRPS6 modulates glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in mouse islet cells through mitochondrial unfolded protein response
Authors: Lin Danhong , Yu Jingwen , Lin Leweihua , Ou Qianying , Quan Huibiao
Published: September 2023

Lack of efficient insulin secretion from the pancreas can lead to impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), prediabetes, and diabetes. We have previously identified two IGT-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs62212118 and rs13052524 located at two overlapping genes: MRPS6 and SLC5A3. In this study, we show that MRPS6 but not SLC5A3 regulates glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) in primary human β-cell and a mouse pancreatic insulinoma β-cell line. Data mining and biochemical studies reveal that MRPS6 is positively regulated by the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt), but feedback inhibits UPRmt. Disruption of such feedback by MRPS6 knockdown causes UPRmt hyperactivation in high glucose conditions, hence elevated ROS levels, increased apoptosis, and impaired GSIS. Conversely, MRPS6 overexpression reduces UPRmt, mitigates high glucose-induced ROS levels and apoptosis, and enhances GSIS in an ATF5-dependent manner. Consistently, UPRmt up-regulation or down-regulation by modulating ATF5 expression is sufficient to decrease or increase GSIS. The negative role of UPRmt in GSIS is further supported by analysis of public transcriptomic data from murine islets. In all, our studies identify MRPS6 and UPRmt as novel modulators of GSIS and apoptosis in β-cells, contributing to our understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of IGT, prediabetes, and diabetes.
Interaction between gestational plane of nutrition and lactation diet composition on lactation performance of Alpine goats of different parities
Authors: Ribeiro Luana P. S. , Patra Amlan Kumar , Puchala Ryszard , Merkel Roger C. , Goetsch Arthur Louis
Published: September 2023

A study was conducted with 48 multiparous and 31 primiparous Alpine goats to determine the effects of different nutritional planes during gestation and lactation on feed intake, body weight, body condition score and mass index, blood constituent concentrations, and milk yield and composition. Two gestation supplement treatments (GS; Moderate versus High) were imposed for approximately 5.5 months and two lactation diets (LD; Moderate vs. High) within each GS were fed for 16 wk. The Moderate GS (14.2% crude protein; CP) was given at 1.125% body weight (BW; dry matter basis) and the High GS (16.2% CP) was consumed ad libitum, with alfalfa hay available free-choice to all animals. Moderate and High LD contained 16.0 and 16.9% CP and 34.7 and 30.4% neutral detergent fiber, respectively. Body weight (77.5 vs. 72.0 kg) and body condition score (BCS; 3.22 vs. 3.04) at 11 days before kidding were greater (P < 0.05) for High versus Moderate GS, but BW at kidding (62.6 and 64.9 kg; SEM = 1.32) and 3 days later (60.9 and 63.6 kg for Moderate and High GS, respectively; SEM = 1.32) was similar. Litter size (1.9 and 2.4; SEM = 0.59), kid birth weight (3.72 and 3.59 kg; SEM = 0.097), and litter weight (6.55 and 7.13 kg for Moderate and High GS, respectively; SEM = 0.316) were similar between GS diets. However, kid birth weight (3.44 and 3.87 kg; SEM = 0.096) and litter weight (6.23 and 7.46 kg; SEM = 0.364) were greater (P < 0.05) for multiparous versus primiparous goats. Dry matter intake during lactation was greater for Moderate than for High GS (P ≤ 0.051) in kg/day, % BW, and g/kg BW0.75. However, milk fat (3.81, 4.14, 3.85, and 3.77%; SEM = 0.132) and protein concentrations (2.49, 2.50, 2.47, and 2.49%; SEM = 0.047), and raw (2.22, 2.59, 2.39, and 2.45 kg; SEM = 0.173) and energy yields of milk (6.02, 7.42, 6.51, and 6.63 MJ/day for Moderate GS-Moderate LD, Moderate GS-High LD, High GS-Moderate LD, and High GS-High LD, respectively; SEM = 0.453) were not affected by GS, LD, or their interaction. Dry matter intake, milk and its component yields, and heat energy (MJ/day) were higher (P < 0.05) for does than for doelings, but BCS and milk protein and fat concentrations were lower (P < 0.05) for does. Blood nonesterified fatty acid concentration was not affected by any diets, but there was interaction (P < 0.05) between GS and LD for betahydroxybutyric acid concentration. In conclusion, minor to moderate magnitudes of difference in nutritional planes during gestation and lactation had little effect on reproductive and lactation performance, reflecting the considerable capacity of lactating dairy goats for compensatory changes such as feed intake and tissue mobilization and accretion.
Point-of-care testing with Xpert HPV for single-visit, screen-and-treat for cervical cancer prevention: a demonstration study in South Africa
Authors: Denny Lynette , Saidu Rakiya , Boa Rosalind , Mbatani Nomonde , Castor Delivette , Moodley Jennifer , Kuhn Louise
Published: September 2023

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-based screen-and-treat (SAT) is recommended but implementation presents operational challenges. We implemented HPV-SAT at a research site in Khayelitsha, South Africa, screening 3062 women aged 30–65 years (44% women living with HIV [WHIV]). All were screened using point-of-care Xpert HPV and almost all received their HPV results on the same day. HPV-positivity occurred in 41.5% of WHIV and 17.4% of women without HIV (WNoH) reducing to 26.2% in WHIV and 10.4% in WNoH applying treatment eligibility criteria based on high viral load in the channels detecting HPV16, 18, 45, 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 52, 58. Among those eligible for treatment, 91.3% were considered suitable for ablative therapy, and 94.6% underwent thermal ablation on the same day, with no serious adverse events. Twelve months later, 39.0% of WHIV and 65.2% of WNoH treated with ablative therapy were clear of HPV. In women who were HPV-positive but ineligible for treatment, 19.1% and 12.9% had histologically-confirmed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN2+) at 12 months. SAT programs need to weigh trade-offs between overtreatment versus delayed or no treatment for women who test positive for HPV. Treatment modalities for precancerous lesions need to be improved.
Pre- and post-treatment evaluation of routine blood analysis in patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and comparison with the healthy control group
Authors: Öz Erdoğan , Parlak Mehmet Emin , Kapıcı Yaşar , Balatacı Umut , Küçükkelepçe Osman , Kurt Fatma
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to examine potential disparities in hematologic inflammation parameters between children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and their healthy counterparts and to determine whether atomoxetine treatment induced any alterations in inflammation indicators. This case–control study involved 43 children aged 6–13 years, 22 diagnosed with ADHD for the first time, and 21 healthy children. In all children, complete blood count and albumin, C-reactive protein (CRP), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (free T4), folate, vitamin B12, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), creatinine and urea values were performed. Children with ADHD were started on atomoxetine treatment, and one month later, the blood test was repeated for those who commenced treatment. Neutrophil (p = 0.005), platelet (PLT) (p = 0.002), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (p = 0.001), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) (p < 0.001), systemic immune /inflammation index (SII) (p < 0.001) and pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV) (p = 0.025) parameters were found to be significantly higher than the control group, while the lymphocyte value (p = 0.001) was found to be significantly lower. In those in the ADHD group, lymphocyte (p = 0.041) and albumin (p = 0.027) values increased significantly after treatment. The results of this study show the increase in inflammation in drug-naive ADHD patients and the partial improvement after treatment. However, there is a need to evaluate inflammation in larger samples after longer-term treatments and follow-ups.
Recent advances in single-atom catalysts for electrochemical water splitting
Authors: Elbakkay Mohamed H. , El Rouby* Waleed M. A.
Published: September 2023

Electrochemical splitting of water is considered the most promising strategy to produce green hydrogen fuel. However, its wide applications are restricted by the slow electrochemical reactions taking place at the cathode and the anode, namely, the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), respectively. In recent years, the downsizing of conventional nanoparticle catalysts to single-atom species and the construction of single-atom catalysts (SACs) have been rapidly expanding research approaches to improve the sluggish kinetics of these two reactions. These SACs can possess high abilities to bridge the gap between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis. Herein, in celebration of the 13th anniversary of the emergence of the term single-atom catalysts, we present a brief discussion focusing on the recent developments in SACs for HER/OER applications. The innovative synthesis strategies, in-depth understanding of characterization methods and the subsequent evolution of the SAC classes depending on the type of substrates through the structure–activity relationship, i.e., alloy-based SACs, carbonaceous materials-based SACs and SACs anchored on other materials, are discussed. Finally, the current problems and challenges of some critical issues in SACs and the future directions for the developments in this field for electrochemical water splitting are also addressed.
A BODIPY-based fluorescent probe for simultaneous detection of H2O2 and viscosity during the pyroptosis process
Authors: Mei Yuan , Li Ziyun , Rong Kuanrong , Hai Zijuan , Tang Wenjian , Song Qin-Hua
Published: September 2023

A dual functional BODIPY fluorescent probe was developed for simultaneous detection of H2O2 and viscosity, by collecting fluorescence from 800–1100 nm and 550–750 nm, respectively.
A mitochondria-targeted far-red AIE fluorescent probe for distinguishing between mitophagy and ferroptosis in cancer cells
Authors: Sun Liyuan , Zou Mengfei , Du Longjie , Wang Shugang , Ding Ru , Lu Keliang , Li Jianchun , Zhou Jin
Published: September 2023

A mitochondria-targeted far-red fluorescent probe LY-1 was formulated to track cell viscosity alterations with excellent sensitivity and selectivity, which was used to discriminate between mitophagy and ferroptosis in cancer cells.
pH-Triggered visual detection of Escherichia coli based on the co-assembly of bacitracin and thymolphthalein
Authors: Lin Tianran , Lai Yunping , Jiang Gaoyan , Chen Xinlian , Hou Li , Zhao Shulin
Published: September 2023

pH-Triggered visual detection of bacteria was achieved based on a probe which was prepared by co-assembly of bacitracin and thymolphthalein.
Constructing the coordination environment of Se–O in Cu2−xSe for electrochemical hydrogen evolution
Authors: Song Shuhua , Shao Zhiyu , Zhu Qian , Hou Xiangyan , Zheng Beining
Published: September 2023

In this work, a Se–O bond is introduced by a simple oxidation method to realize the structural transformation from Cu2−xSe to Cu2O(SeO3) for enhanced electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
An imine-rich polymer with enlarged π-conjugated planes for aqueous zinc-ion batteries
Authors: Liang Yaxin , Xia Yuanhao , Wang Xinlei , Zhou Jie
Published: September 2023

Two imine-rich polymers (planar P3Q and linear TDB) were synthesized through a facile method.
Recycling cobalt in spent lithium ion batteries to design CoN/HPCF/CoN electrocatalysts for advanced zinc–air batteries
Authors: Wang Yibin , Xiao Lan , Zhang Yingjie , Li Mian , Liu Tingting
Published: September 2023

Recycling spent lithium ion batteries and catkin biomass to design a hollow and porous CoN/HPCF/CoN bifunctional electrocatalyst. The CoN/HPCF/CoN derived zinc–air battery reveals a high peak power density of 161.6 mW cm−2 with excellent stability.
How inversion relates to disordering tendencies in complex oxides
Authors: Kocevski Vancho , Pilania Ghanshyam , Uberuaga Blas P.
Published: September 2023

The energy to invert the cation structure of a complex oxide correlates with the energy to disorder it.
Lattice thermal conductivity of 2D nanomaterials: a simple semi-empirical approach
Authors: Tromer R. M. , Felix I. M. , Pereira L. F. C. , da Luz M. G. E. , Junior L. A. Ribeiro , Galvão D. S.
Published: September 2023

Extracting reliable information of certain physical properties of materials, such as thermal transport, can be very computationally demanding.
Effect of external electric field on the electronic properties of the AlAs/SiC van der Waals heterostructure
Authors: Zhang Zicheng , Wan Changxin , Li Heng , Liu Chunsheng , Meng Lan , Yan Xiaohong
Published: September 2023

2D AlAs/SiC heterostructure has a type-II band alignment with flat valence bands near the Fermi level. Under the external electric field, the band gap can be tuned continuously but the band structure maintains a stable type-II band alignment.
Significantly enhanced bioconversion of high titer biomass-derived furfural to furfuryl alcohol by robust endogenous aldehyde reductase in a sustainable way
Authors: Di Junhua , Liao Xiaolong , Li Qi , He Yu-Cai , Ma Cuiluan
Published: September 2023

This study developed an effective and sustainable process for the production of furfuryl alcohol from biomass in a tandem reaction with a biochar-based heterogeneous chemocatalyst and a robust reductase biocatalyst using an aqueous system.
Distinct selective alkene hydrosilylation catalyzed by acylenalato cobalt hydrides
Authors: Wang Xin , Li Xiaoyan , Sun Hongjian
Published: September 2023

In this article, the catalytic performance of acylenolato cobalt(iii) hydrides [CoIII(O∩CO)(PMe3)3H] (O∩CO = acylenolato ligand) 1–3 for alkene hydrosilylation was studied.
Regioselective heterofunctionalization of alpha-aryl amides with heteroatom nucleophiles via electrophilic activation
Authors: Han Shuai , Guo Yu , Zhang Wei , Chen Jinjin , Wang Zhen , Zeng Yao-Fu
Published: September 2023

A general and efficient strategy for the α-heterofunctionalization of aryloxy-activated amides with various nucleophiles, including amines, alcohols, phenols, carboxylic acids, and thiols, has been developed.
Adaptation and Reliability of the Cinderella Story Retell Task in Canadian French Persons Without Brain Injury
Authors: Brisebois Amélie , Brambati Simona Maria , Jutras Claudie , Rochon Elizabeth , Leonard Carol , Zumbansen Anna , Anglade Carole , Marcotte Karine
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

Main concept (MC) analysis is a well-documented method of discourse analysis in adults with and without brain injury. This study aims to develop a MC checklist that is culturally and linguistically adapted for Canadian French speakers and examine its reliability. We also documented microstructural properties and provide a normative reference in persons not brain injured (PNBIs).

Method:

Discourse samples from 43 PNBIs were collected. All participants completed the Cinderella story retell task twice. Manual transcription was performed for all samples. The 34 MCs for the Cinderella story retell task were adapted into Canadian French and used to score all transcripts. In addition, microstructural variables were extracted using Computerized Language Analysis (CLAN). Intraclass correlation coefficients were computed to assess interrater reliability for MC codes and microstructural variables. Test–retest reliability was assessed using intraclass correlations, Spearman's rho correlations, and the Wilcoxon signed-ranks test. Bland–Altman plots were used to examine the agreement of the discourse measures between the two sessions.

Results:

The MC checklist for the Cinderella story retell task adapted for Canadian French speakers is provided. Good-to-excellent interrater reliability was obtained for most MC codes; however, reliability ranged from poor to excellent for the “inaccurate and incomplete” code. Microstructural variables demonstrated excellent interrater reliability. Test–retest reliability ranged from poor to excellent for all variables, with the majority falling between moderate and excellent. Bland–Altman plots illustrated the limits of agreement between test and retest.

Conclusions:

This study provides the MC checklist for clinicians and researchers working with Canadian French speakers when assessing discourse with the Cinderella story retell task. It also addresses the gap in available psychometric data regarding test–retest reliability in PNBIs.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.24171087
High genotype diversity and zoonotic potential of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in yaks (Bos grunniens) from Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province
Authors: Yang Xin , Fan Ying-Ying , Yang Dan-Jiao , Huang Shuang , Wang Jun-Wei , Chen Xu , Zhang Min , Liu Yi-Wen , Li Qiang , Song Jun-Ke , Zhao Guang-Hui
Published: September 2023

Enterocytozoon bieneusi is a common pathogen in humans and various animals, threatening the breeding industry and public health. However, there is limited information on the molecular characteristics of E. bieneusi in yaks, an economically important animal mainly domesticated in the Qinghai Tibet Plateau in China. In the present study, nested PCR targeting the ITS gene region was applied to investigate the positive rates and genetic diversity of E. bieneusi in 223 faecal samples of yaks from three locations in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. The total positive rate of E. bieneusi was 23.8% (53/223). Significant differences in positive rates were identified among yaks from three locations (χ2 = 8.535, p = 0.014) and four age groups (χ2 = 17.259, p = 0.001), with the highest positive rates in yaks from Yajiang and aged < 6 months, respectively. Sequence analysis identified seven known (EbpC, LW1, LQ10, PigEBITS5, ESH-01, J and BEB4) and five novel (Ganzi1–5) ITS genotypes. Phylogenetic analysis showed eight genotypes (EbpC, LW1, LQ10, PigEBITS5, ESH-01, Ganzi1, Ganzi2 and Ganzi4) in group 1 and three genotypes (J, BEB4 and Ganzi3) in group 2, indicating high genotype diversity and zoonotic potential of E. bieneusi in yaks from Ganzi. Considering the increasing zoonotic genotypes in yaks in the present study compared with previous findings, interventions should be developed to reduce the potential transmission of E. bieneusi between humans and animals.
Der Bauchnabel – die erste Narbe im Leben
Authors: Corts Magga
Published: September 2023

In dieser DHZ-Ausgabe beschäftigt sich die Rubrik „Funktionelle Anatomie“ mit dem Bauchnabel.
Keine gemischten Gefühle
Authors: Kämper Siegfried
Published: September 2023

Eine Stellungnahme zu Mischinjektionen und Mischinfusionen.
Photoinduced Alkylation of Diazines with N-(Acyloxy)phthalimides in the Presence of Triethylamine
Authors: Chiba Shunsuke , Guerrero Itziar , Tan Eugene Yew Kun , Liu Yuliang , Edwards Lee J.
Published: September 2023

A photochemical protocol for the alkylation of diazines (pyrimidines, pyrazines, and pyridazines) with N-(acyloxy)phthalimides has been developed. The process is facilitated by the presence of triethylamine under irradiation with 427–390 nm light; this enables rapid cross-coupling reactions to construct a wide range of alkylated diazines.
Surgery and Anesthesia Preoperative “Virtual Huddle”: A Pilot Trial to Enhance Communication across the Drape
Authors: Goldhaber Nicole H. , Reeves J. Jeffery , Puri Dhruv , Berumen Jennifer A. , Tran Minh , Clay Brian J. , Longhurst Christopher A. , Fergerson Byron
Published: September 2023

Objectives Effective communication between surgeons and anesthesiologists is critical for high-quality, safe, and efficient perioperative patient care. Despite widespread implementation of surgical safety checklists and time-outs, ineffective team communication remains a leading cause of patient safety events in the operating room. To promote effective communication, we conducted a pilot trial of a “virtual huddle” between anesthesiologists and surgeons.

Methods Attending anesthesiologists and surgeons at an academic medical center were recruited by email to participate in this feasibility trial. An electronic health record-based smartphone application was utilized to create secure group chats among trial participants the day before a surgery. Text notifications connected a surgeon/anesthesiologist pair in order to introduce colleagues, facilitate a preoperative virtual huddle, and enable open-ended, text message-based communication. A 5-point Likert scale-based survey with a free-text component was used to evaluate the utility of the virtual huddle and usability of the electronic platform.

Results A total of 51 unique virtual huddles occurred between 16 surgeons and 12 anesthesiologists over 99 operations. All postintervention survey questions received a positive rating (range: 3.50/5.00–4.53/5.00) and the virtual huddle was considered to be easy to use (4.47/5.00), improve attending-to-attending communication (4.29/5.00), and improve patient care (4.22/5.00). There were no statistically significant differences in the ratings between surgery and anesthesia. In thematic analysis of qualitative survey results, Participants indicated the intervention was particularly useful in interdisciplinary relationship-building and reducing room turnover. The huddle was less useful for simple, routine cases or when participation was one sided.

Conclusion A preoperative virtual huddle may be a simple and effective intervention to improve communication and teamwork in the operating room. Further study and consideration of broader implementation is warranted.
Half Filleted Flap for Thumb Reconstruction A Case Report
Authors: Knajoor Dr. Roy. , Ramaswamy Dr. C.N.
Published: September 2023

Major injury to the hand is a difficult problem to treat. Even after best of care, it is often difficult to get the hand rehabilitated back to its full function. In an attempt to preserve all the full complements of the hand, one tends to preserve all the viable tissue even when the functional capability is irrepairably damaged. The end result is a stiff posts which interfere with the basic function of hand. By careful initial assessment of the injury this can be avoided. It is also possible to use viable tissue from damaged finger on to another finger, which is less damaged and whose functional capability is unaffected. Use of a filleted flap is one such method. A case is presented, where full complement of distal phalanx, nail complex and other soft tissues were predicled on the Proximal Filleted skin of Index finger to reconstruct the terminal phalanx of the thumb and the soft tissue of the Thumb web.
The Distally Based Island Posterior-Interosseous Flap - An Experience
Authors: Singh Dr. A.K. , Sharan Dr. A.
Published: September 2023

Soft tissue reoconstructions of the hand is an exciting challence for reconstructive surgeon. The choice is between using a distant flap, mono or biaxial with or without delays, a free flap with microvascular anastamosis or an Island flap.

The advent of local flaps radial and other forearm flaps has solved problem admirably (Song et al, 1982; Biemer and Stock, 1983; Soutar and Tanner, 1984; Foucher et al, 1984). However it does involve sacrifice of a major artery to the hand.
Evaluation of Amino Acid (ALAMIN-SN) in Burns
Authors: Chowdhary Dr. Mrs Siti Roy , Sinha Dr. P.K. , Roy Dr. Collin , Ghatak Dr. R. , Karmakar Dr. S. , Roy Dr. A.
Published: September 2023

20 patients of burns in the control group and 20 in the ALAMIN group were enrolled in this open labelled clinical trial to determine the effect of amino acid infusion on selected parameters.

It is observed that patients given 2 bottles a day of ALAMIN-SN for a period of 20 days (which provides 6.08 grams Nitrogen and 20.32 grams of protein per day) show significant improvement in Haemoglobin levels, Serum Albumin and reduction in Burn areas. There is s statistically significant improvement in the nitrogen balance in patients administered ALAMIN-SN.
A clear vision for the future of contact lenses
Authors: Shapiro Maura
Published: September 2023

Technological and material advancements improve contact performance and future contacts could deliver medication or detect vital health indicators.
Stress effect on the leakage current distribution of ferroelectric Al0.7Sc0.3N across the wafer
Authors: Yang Wanwang , Chen Li , Li Minghua , Liu Fei , Liu Xiaoyan , Liu Chen , Kang Jinfeng
Published: September 2023

This study presents an investigation into the stress effect on the leakage current in ferroelectric Al0.7Sc0.3N films by experiments and density functional theory (DFT) computations. The experiments are based on 8-in. 100 nm Al0.7Sc0.3N films obtained from pulsed DC co-sputter deposition technology, which exhibit non-uniform compressive in-plane stress across the wafers and similar distributions of leakage current, suggesting close dependence between each other. DFT computations revealed that stress affects leakage current in two ways: the level of traps introduced by nitrogen vacancy and the formation energy of nitrogen vacancy in Al0.7Sc0.3N. By considering both factors, the leakage current of Al0.7Sc0.3N films increases with larger compressive in-plane stress, as observed in the experimental results. Additionally, the DFT calculation results indicated that the leakage current is more sensitive to compressive stress compared to the tensile, and the minimum leakage current can be obtained with neutral in-plane stress. These findings provide a guideline for stress engineering to optimize the AlScN-based ferroelectric devices.