bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DFT Modeling of Unintentional Oxygen Incorporation Enhanced by Magnesium in GaN(0001) and AlN(0001) Growth Surfaces during Metal‐Organic Vapor‐Phase Epitaxy
Authors: Kusaba Akira , Kurniawan Romeo Marcel , Kempisty Paweł , Kangawa Yoshihiro
Published: February 2022

Understanding the physics of unintentional doping and defect formation during epitaxial growth of III‐nitride semiconductors is crucial to develop optical and electronic devices. Herein, the impact of magnesium doping on unintentional oxygen incorporation into GaN and AlN during metal‐organic vapor‐phase epitaxy is investigated by first‐principles calculations. It is found that the presence of Mg substituting group‐III atoms (Ga or Al) in subsurface layers energetically promotes unintentional oxygen incorporation. The calculation results also suggest that even when Mg + H complex defects exist in subsurface layers, they promote unintentional oxygen incorporation in a similar manner. The mechanism of unintentional oxygen incorporation enhanced by magnesium doping and complex defect structures is discussed in terms of charge neutrality or electron‐counting model in the growth surface.
Fe‐ and Co‐Doped Tungsten Disulfide Monolayers: 2D Ferromagnetic Half‐Metals at Room Temperature
Authors: Sun Xiangyu , Yang Ke , Li Zhongyao
Published: February 2022

2D ferromagnetic (FM) materials are rare at room temperature. In situ substitution of magnetic atoms may be a promising method to induce magnetism in nonmagnetic materials. Herein, the magnetism in Fe‐ and Co‐doped WS2 (Fe:WS2 and Co:WS2 ) monolayers by using density functional theory is studied. The Fe and Co atoms substitute the W atoms with a relatively large doping concentration (16.7%), respectively. Both doped monolayers are FM half‐metals with the out‐of‐plane easy magnetization axis. The estimated Curie temperature can be up to about 540 K in Fe:WS2 and 370 K in Co:WS2. Moreover, the magnetic anisotropic energy in Fe:WS2 can be larger than 16 meV cell−1 under −4% compressive strain. Although compressive strain leads to a higher Curie temperature in Co:WS2, it slightly reduces the Curie temperature in Fe:WS2 due to the enhanced anti‐FM coupling of next nearest‐neighboring exchange interaction. It is suggested by the calculations that both Fe:WS2 and Co:WS2 monolayers are 2D FM half‐metals at room temperature, which may be promising candidates in nanoscale spintronic devices.
Clinical efficacy of dual trigger with human chorionic gonadotropin and a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist for women undergoing fertility preservation
Authors: Hong Yeon Hee , Kim Seul Ki , Lee Jung Ryeol , Jee Byung Chul , Suh Chang Suk
Published: February 2022

Purpose

To determine the optimal maturation method to increase the yield of mature oocytes, especially for cancer patients with fewer chances of fertility preservation (FP) before gonadotoxic therapy.

Methods

A total of 373 cycles in 293 patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) for FP using a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol were enrolled. The control group (n = 225) received 250 µg of recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin (rhCG) while the study group (n = 148) received 250 µg of rhCG and 0.2 mg of triptorelin for triggering. Subgroup analyses were performed for stimulation cycles with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR; anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels <1.1 ng/ml, n = 86), with endometrioma (n = 104), or with breast cancer and endometrial cancer using 5 mg of letrozole during the COS cycles (n = 84).

Results

There was no significant difference in the baseline characteristics or the number of total and mature oocytes between the two groups. Subgroup analyses for women with endometrioma or DOR showed similar results. However, the dual trigger group had a significantly higher number of mature oocytes than the rhCG trigger group in breast and endometrial cancer patients using letrozole during the COS cycles (6.9 ± 6.0 vs. 4.6 ± 3.6, p = 0.034). The maturation rate was higher in the dual trigger group, although the difference was not statistically significant (59.3 ± 26.7 vs. 50.0 ± 28.0, p = 0.124).

Conclusions

Dual triggering can be an efficient maturation method to maximize the yield of mature oocytes in breast or endometrial cancer patients using letrozole‐combined GnRH antagonist protocol for FP.
Singularity avoidance adaptive output‐feedback fixed‐time consensus control for multiple autonomous underwater vehicles subject to nonlinearities
Authors: Su Yuanbo , Xue Hong , Liang Hongjing , Chen Duxin
Published: February 2022

This article investigates the singularity avoidance adaptive output‐feedback fixed‐time consensus control problem for multiple autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) subject to nonlinearities. A distributed state observer is designed to reconstruct the unmeasurable coupling states of each AUV system. In order to handle the unknown nonlinearities of the multi‐AUV systems, the fuzzy logic systems are adopted to approximate unknown hydrodynamic parameters. By combining adaptive fixed‐time control with backstepping technology, an adaptive singularity avoidance fixed‐time consensus control algorithm is developed, where a new error switching mechanism is designed for avoiding the singularity problem caused by the differentiation of the virtual control law. Subsequently, a singularity avoidance distributed adaptive output‐feedback fixed‐time fuzzy controller is presented, under which an auxiliary function is designed to handle the difficulty of the fixed‐time stability analysis under the output‐feedback control strategy, where two types of observer errors are needed in the designed Lyapunov function to achieve the fixed‐time stability. Then, based on the fixed‐time stability criterion, it is proved that both the consensus tracking performance and the closed‐loop stability can be guaranteed in fixed time. Finally, a simulation example verifies the effectiveness of the developed control strategy.
Optimal reset law design based on guaranteed cost control method for Lipschitz nonlinear systems
Authors: Shahbazzadeh Majid , Sadati Seyed Jalil , HosseinNia S. Hassan
Published: February 2022

This article proposes a systematic approach for optimal reset law design of a class of nonlinear systems. By using the guaranteed cost control method, sufficient conditions for the design of optimal reset law are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities. In an offline design procedure, the reset law is computed that minimizes the upper bound of a quadratic cost function. The proposed method can be implemented for real‐time applications even with small sampling time. The simulation results verify the efficacy and effectiveness of the proposed theoretical results.
Distribution, drivers and population structure of the invasive alien snail Tarebia granifera in the Luvuvhu system, South Africa
Authors: Makherana Fhatuwani , Cuthbert Ross N. , Dondofema Farai , Wasserman Ryan J. , Chauke Glencia M. , Munyai Linton F. , Dalu Tatenda
Published: February 2022

Invasive alien species continue to spread and proliferate in waterways worldwide, but environmental drivers of invasion dynamics lack assessment. Knowledge gaps are pervasive in the Global South, where the frequent heavy human‐modification of rivers provides high opportunity for invasion. In southern Africa, the spatio‐temporal ecology of a widespread and high‐impact invasive alien snail, Tarebia granifera, and its management status is understudied. Here, an ecological assessment was conducted at seven sites around Nandoni Reservoir on the Luvuvhu River in South Africa. The distribution and densities of T. granifera were mapped and the potential drivers of population structure were explored. T. granifera was widespread at sites impacted to varying extents due to anthropogenic activity, with densities exceeding 500 individuals per square meter at the most impacted areas. T. granifera predominantly preferred shallow and sandy environments, being significantly associated with sediment (i.e., chlorophyll‐a, Mn, SOC, SOM) and water (i.e., pH, conductivity, TDS) variables. T. granifera seemed to exhibit two recruitment peaks in November and March, identified via size‐based stock assessment. Sediment parameters (i.e., sediment organic matter, sediment organic carbon, manganese) and water chemistry (i.e., pH, total dissolved solids, conductivity) were found to be important in structuring T. granifera populations, with overall snail densities highest during the summer season. We provide important autecological information and insights on the distribution and extent of the spread of T. granifera. This may help in the development of invasive alien snail management action plans within the region, as well as modelling efforts to predict invasion patterns elsewhere based on environmental characteristics.
Variation of soil silicon fractions and bioavailability during centennial‐scale evolution of ecosystem after glacier retreat
Authors: Wu Lele , Song Zhaoliang , Yang Xiaomin , Zhang Xiaodong , Hao Qian , Xia Shaopan , Zhao Xiangwei
Published: February 2022

The biogeochemical cycle of Si plays an important role in maintaining the function and stability of ecosystems. Although there have been many studies on long‐term silicate weathering, there are few reports on Si fractions and cycling in early ecosystem development. Using optimized sequential chemical extraction processes, this study quantified soil Si fractions of the eluvial horizon and deposition layers in Hailuogou Glacier Retreat Area of Gongga Mountain, Southwest China. The results showed that plant‐available Si (NaAc–Si) content decreased significantly from 33.40 to 2.16 mg kg−1 with the increase of soil age. There was a significantly positive correlation (p < .01) between soil pH and NaAc–Si. Within the labile Si fractions, the largest fraction was amorphous Si (Na2CO3–Si) (165.35 ± 81.50 mg kg−1), followed by pedogenic oxides/hydroxides chemisorbed Si (Oxalate–Si) (135.13 ± 66.83 mg kg−1), Si adsorbed on the surface of inorganic soil particles (Acetic–Si) (9.66 ± 4.27 mg kg−1), and soluble Si (CaCl2–Si) (4.89 ± 1.68 mg kg−1). Compared with Stage 1 (i.e., a variety of pioneer species symbiosis stage) after glacier retreat, the storage of these four labile Si fractions in Stage 3 (i.e., climax species stage) decreased by 45.95% (CaCl2–Si), 42.98% (Acetic–Si), 67.34% (Oxalate–Si), and 75.24% (Na2CO3–Si), respectively, due to the absorption and utilization of Si by plants. Our study implies that the multiple transformations of different Si fractions in soils and the absorption and return of Si by plants can keep the CaCl2–Si pool in dynamic equilibrium, which provides a basis for the stability of ecosystem functions during the vegetation evolution after glacier retreat.
Controlled Growth of Donor–Bridge–Acceptor Interface for High‐Performance Ammonia Production
Authors: Zhao Shuya , Zheng Zhiqiang , Qi Lu , Xue Yurui , Li Yuliang
Published: February 2022

The intrinsic catalytic activity and active sites of the catalyst originate from the interface efficient charge transfer. A 2D graphdiyne (GDY) layer grown on the surface of zeolitic imidazolate framework nanocubes (ZIFNC@GDY) forms a novel structure of a perfect “donor–bridge–acceptor” interface, in which the ZIFNC and GDY act as electron donor and acceptor, respectively, linked by the sp‐C–Co and sp‐C–N bonds as bridges. Importantly, the as‐prepared catalyst exhibits intrinsically high reactivity for ammonia production through the nitrate reduction reaction (NtRR) in neutral aqueous solutions at ambient pressures and temperatures. The NtRR performance of the as‐prepared electrocatalyst is confirmed by the high NH3 yield rate (YNH3) of 0.40 ± 0.02 mmol h–1 cm–2 at potential of −0.745V versus RHE and Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 98.51 ± 0.75%, as well as the excellent stability. We show that such unique interfacial structures can accelerate the efficient electron transfers between the zeolitic imidazolate framework nanocubes (ZIFNC) core and GDY shell, enrich the electron density on the GDY surface, and thereby promote fast redox switching, creating more active sites, and improving the catalytic performances.
Effects of the clearance between the core plate and restraining part on the structural performance of the buckling‐restrained brace using steel mortar planks
Authors: Fujita Masanori , Nakamura Makoto , Awazu Kengo , Iwata Mamoru
Published: February 2022

The clearance between the core plate and the restraining part of the buckling‐restrained brace using steel mortar planks (BRBSM) considerably affects the failure mode and hysteretic characteristics of the brace. A clearance adjustment construction is proposed for the BRBSM which can control the clearance through partially pasting clearance adjustment materials and polishing the mortar plank surface. First, the clearance adjustment construction workflow and quality control are demonstrated, and it is verified that the clearance can be assured by fabricating specimens. Further, the effects of the difference in clearance between the core plate and restraining part on the structural performance of the BRBSM in terms of failure behaviour, increase strength ratio, buckling mode and cumulative plastic strain energy ratio are evaluated by conducting a cyclic axial loading test.
Strategies to Enhance ZnO Photocatalyst's Performance for Water Treatment: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Hezam Abdo , Drmosh Q. A. , Ponnamma Deepalekshmi , Bajiri Mohammed Abdullah , Qamar Mohammad , Namratha K. , Zare Mina , Nayan M. B. , Onaizi Sagheer A. , Byrappa K.
Published: February 2022

Despite the photocatalytic organic pollutant degradation using ZnO started in 1910–1911, many challenges are still ahead, and several critical issues have to be addressed. Large band gap, and short life‐time of photogenerated electrons and holes are critical issues negatively affect the photocatalytic activity of ZnO. Various approaches have been introduced to overcome these issues including intrinsic doping, extrinsic doping, and heterostructure. This review introduces unique and deep insights into tuning of the photocatalytic activity of ZnO. It starts by description of how to tune the photocatalytic activity of pristine ZnO through tuning its morphology, surface area, exposed face, and intrinsic defects. Afterward, the review explains how the Z‐scheme approach succeed to address the redox weakened issue of heterojunction approach. In general, this review provides a clear image that helps the researcher to tune the photocatalytic activity of pristine ZnO and its heterostructure.
Lenvatinib induces cardiac developmental toxicity in zebrafish embryos through regulation of Notch mediated‐oxidative stress generation
Authors: Liu Jieping , Huang Ling , Wan Mengqi , Chen Guilan , Su Meile , Han Fang , Liu Fasheng , Xiong Guanghua , Liao Xinjun , Lu Huiqiang , Li Wanbo , Cao Zigang
Published: February 2022

Due to an increasing number of abused drugs dumped into the wastewater, more and more drugs are detected in the water environment, which may affect the survival of aquatic organisms. Lenvatinib is a multi‐targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and is clinically used to treat differentiated thyroid cancer, renal epithelial cell carcinoma and liver cancer. However, there are few reports on the effects of lenvatinib in embryos development. In this study, zebrafish embryos were used to evaluate the effect of lenvatinib on cardiovascular development. Well‐developed zebrafish embryos were selected at 6 h post fertilization (hpf) and exposed to 0.05 mg/L, 0.1 mg/L and 0.2 mg/L lenvatinib up to 72 hpf. The processed embryos demonstrated cardiac edema, decreased heart rate, prolonged SV‐BA distance, inhibited angiogenesis, and blocked blood circulation. Lenvatinib caused cardiac defects in the whole stage of cardiac development and increased the apoptosis of cardiomyocyte. Oxidative stress in the processed embryos was accumulated and inhibiting oxidative stress could rescue cardiac defects induced by lenvatinib. Additionally, we found that lenvatinib downregulated Notch signaling, and the activation of Notch signaling could rescue cardiac developmental defects and downregulate oxidative stress level induced by lenvatinib. Our results suggested that lenvatinib might induce cardiac developmental toxicity through inducing Notch mediated‐oxidative stress generation, raising concerns about the harm of exposure to lenvatinib in aquatic organisms.
Small‐scale silvopasture: Addressing urban and peri‐urban livestock challenges in the United States with agroforestry practices
Authors: Conway Ashley , Nieman Christine
Published: February 2022

The growing urban and peri‐urban populations around the world creates strain on food and environmental security. Alleviation of these stressors may be possible by enhancing regional food production and ecosystem services provided by urban and peri‐urban agriculture (UPA). Despite the growing popularity of UPA in the United States, incorporating livestock in these settings is challenging. A review of the literature identified three key barriers to adoption of urban and peri‐urban livestock keeping that have the potential to be ameliorated using agroforestry practices to facilitate integration: animal feed resources, water quality and nutrient cycling, and use of sites contaminated with heavy metals. A discussion focused on the solutions to those barriers resulted in two theoretical silvopasture systems; we propose one for the urban setting and another for the peri‐urban setting. We have determined small‐scale livestock keeping provides a potential strategy to meet the demands of growing urban and peri‐urban environments, but sustainable and effective integration of livestock under these conditions must be considered to mitigate environmental risks associated with urban livestock keeping. Urban silvopasture has the potential to enhance specialty crop and niche food production in these environments. Future research should seek to better understand small‐scale silvopasture at the whole‐system level in a variety of resource contexts and with local species and practices.
Effects of sub‐acute co‐exposure to WIFI (2.45 GHz) and Pistacia lentiscus oil treatment on wound healing by primary intention in male rabbits
Authors: Latrach R. , Ben Chehida N. , Allous A. , Redid H. , Rejeb A. , Abdelmelek H.
Published: February 2022

Background

The bioeffects of WIFI on cutaneous wound healing remains unexplored. In addition, several medicinal plant products including lentisk oil have been shown to interfere with wound healing process. Since the use of this oil is increasing, the co‐exposure (WIFI‐Lentisk oil) assessment is of paramount importance.

Objectives

We aimed in the present study to investigate the effects of WIFI exposure as well as the application of Pistacia lentiscus oil on sutured wounds (SW).

Methods

New Zealand male rabbits (n = 24) were used and randomly divided into four groups of six animals each: a control group (SW) and three experimental groups (i) a first group exposed to WIFI (2.45 GHz, 6 h/day) during 16 days (SWW); (ii) a second group exposed to WIFI (2.45 GHz, 6 h/day) during 16 days and treated with lentisk oil (SWWL) and (iii) a third group not exposed to WIFI but treated with lentisk oil (SWL). The wound healing was evaluated by monitoring clinical parameters (temperature, food intake, relative weight variation, and macroscopic aspect) and histology.

Results

The mean food intake was higher in the SWWL group compared to the three other groups (p < 0.001) and higher in the SWL group compared to the SW group (p = 0.014). The exposition to WIFI (SWW group) or lentisk oil application (SWL group) can promote the collagen deposition and ameliorate the general aspect of wounds. By contrast, the co‐exposure to WIFI and lentisk oil (SWWL) results in antagonist effects and extends the inflammatory phase of wound healing.

Conclusions

Wounds treated topically with Pistacia lentiscus oil should not be exposed to WIFI.
Regulatory mechanisms of cytoneme-based morphogen transport
Authors: Daly Christina A. , Hall Eric T. , Ogden Stacey K.
Published: February 2022

During development and tissue homeostasis, cells must communicate with their neighbors to ensure coordinated responses to instructional cues. Cues such as morphogens and growth factors signal at both short and long ranges in temporal- and tissue-specific manners to guide cell fate determination, provide positional information, and to activate growth and survival responses. The precise mechanisms by which such signals traverse the extracellular environment to ensure reliable delivery to their intended cellular targets are not yet clear. One model for how this occurs suggests that specialized filopodia called cytonemes extend between signal-producing and -receiving cells to function as membrane-bound highways along which information flows. A growing body of evidence supports a crucial role for cytonemes in cell-to-cell communication. Despite this, the molecular mechanisms by which cytonemes are initiated, how they grow, and how they deliver specific signals are only starting to be revealed. Herein, we discuss recent advances toward improved understanding of cytoneme biology. We discuss similarities and differences between cytonemes and other types of cellular extensions, summarize what is known about how they originate, and discuss molecular mechanisms by which their activity may be controlled in development and tissue homeostasis. We conclude by highlighting important open questions regarding cytoneme biology, and comment on how a clear understanding of their function may provide opportunities for treating or preventing disease.
Sedentary behaviour and physical activity are associated with biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction and low-grade inflammation—relevance for (pre)diabetes: The Maastricht Study
Authors: Vandercappellen Evelien J. , Koster Annemarie , Savelberg Hans H. C. M. , Eussen Simone J. P. M. , Dagnelie Pieter C. , Schaper Nicolaas C. , Schram Miranda T. , van der Kallen Carla J. H. , van Greevenbroek Marleen M. J. , Wesselius Anke , Schalkwijk Casper G. , Kroon Abraham A. , Henry Ronald M. A. , Stehouwer Coen D. A.
Published: February 2022

Aims/hypothesis

Biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction and low-grade inflammation are important in the pathogenesis of CVD and can potentially be modified by physical activity and sedentary behaviour. Effects of physical activity on biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction may be especially prominent in type 2 diabetes.

Methods

In the population-based Maastricht Study (n = 2363, 51.5% male, 28.3% type 2 diabetes, 15.1% prediabetes [defined as impaired glucose tolerance and impaired fasting glucose]), we determined biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction and low-grade inflammation, and combined z scores were calculated. Physical activity and sedentary behaviour were measured by activPAL. Linear regression analyses were used with adjustment for demographic, lifestyle and cardiovascular risk factors.

Results

The association between total, light, moderate-to-vigorous and vigorous intensity physical activity and sedentary time on the one hand and biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction on the other were generally significant and were consistently stronger in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes as compared with normal glucose metabolism status (p for interaction <0.05). Associations between physical activity and sedentary behaviour on the one hand and low-grade inflammation on the other were also significant and were similar in individuals with and without (pre)diabetes (p for interaction >0.05).

Conclusions/interpretation

Physical activity and sedentary behaviour are associated with biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction and low-grade inflammation. For biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction, associations between physical activity and sedentary behaviour were consistently stronger in (pre)diabetes than in normal glucose metabolism. Whether increasing physical activity or decreasing sedentary time can positively influence biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction in individuals with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes requires further study.

Graphical abstract
Comparison of characteristics and tumor targeting properties of extracellular vesicles derived from primary NK cells or NK-cell lines stimulated with IL-15 or IL-12/15/18
Authors: Aarsund Miriam , Segers Filip M. , Wu Yunjie , Inngjerdingen Marit
Published: February 2022

NK cell-based therapies have shown promise for hematological cancer forms, but their use against solid tumors is hampered by their poor ability to infiltrate the tumor. NK cells release extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing cytolytic proteins, indicating that NK-cell derived EVs may have therapeutic potential. In this study, we compared the tumor-targeting potential of EVs derived from either primary NK cells or the NK cell lines NK-92 and KHYG-1 cultured in IL-15 alone or in combination with IL-12 and IL-18. Primary NK cells were also stimulated through the activating receptor CD16. Tumor cell apoptosis was measured using a panel of human colon, melanoma, glioblastoma, prostate, breast, and ovarian tumor cell line spheroids. NK cells or NK-92 cells stimulated with IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 generated EVs with higher efficiency than EVs from resting cells, although similar amounts of EVs were produced under both conditions. Proteomic analysis indicated similar distribution of cytolytic proteins in EVs from primary NK cells and NK-92, but lower levels in KHYG-1 EVs that translated into poor capacity for KHYG-1 EVs at targeting tumor cell lines. Further, we show that CD16-stimulated NK cells release low amounts of EVs devoid of cytolytic proteins. Importantly, EVs from cytokine-stimulated NK cells penetrate into the spheroid core, and tumor spheroid susceptibility to NK-cell derived EVs was linked to differential expression of the NKG2D ligands MICA/B, which was blocked with an anti-NKG2D antibody. We conclude that EVs from activated primary NK cells or NK-92 cells has the best potential to infiltrate and target solid tumors.
Analysis of Surgical Mortalities Using the Fishbone Model for Quality Improvement in Surgical Disciplines
Authors: Moeng M. S. , Luvhengo T. E.
Published: February 2022

Background

The healthcare industry is complex and prone to the occurrence of preventable patient safety incidents. Most serious patient safety events in surgery are preventable.

Aim

This study was conducted to determine the rate of occurrence of preventable mortalities and to use the fishbone model to establish the main contributing factors.

Methods

We reviewed the records of patients who died following admission to the surgical wards. Data regarding their demography, diagnosis, acuity, comorbidities, categorization of death and contributing factors were extracted from the Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) database. Factors which contributed to preventable and potentially preventable mortalities were collated. The fishbone model was used for root cause analysis. The study received prior ethical clearance (M190122).

Results

Records of 859 mortalities were found, of which 65.7% (564/859) were males. The median age of the patients who died was 49 years (IQR: 33–64 years). The median length of hospital stay before death was three days (IQR: 1–11 days). Twenty‐four percent (24.1%) of the deaths were from gastrointestinal (GIT) emergencies, 18.4% followed head injury and 17.0% from GIT cancers. Overall, 5.4% of the mortalities were preventable, and 41.1% were considered potentially preventable. The error of judgment and training issues accounted for 46% of mortalities.

Conclusion

Most surgical mortalities involve males, and around 46% are either potentially preventable or preventable. The majority of the mortality were associated with GIT emergencies, head injury and advanced malignancies of the GIT. The leading contributing factors to preventable and potentially preventable mortalities were the error of judgment, inadequate training and shortage of resources.
TNF in the liver: targeting a central player in inflammation
Authors: Tiegs Gisa , Horst Andrea K.
Published: February 2022

Tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF) is a multifunctional cytokine. First recognized as an endogenous soluble factor that induces necrosis of solid tumours, TNF became increasingly important as pro-inflammatory cytokine being involved in the immunopathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases. In the liver, TNF induces numerous biological responses such as hepatocyte apoptosis and necroptosis, liver inflammation and regeneration, and autoimmunity, but also progression to hepatocellular carcinoma. Considering these multiple functions of TNF in the liver, we propose anti-TNF therapies that specifically target TNF signalling at the level of its specific receptors.
Intergenus F1-hybrids of African weakly electric fish (Mormyridae: Gnathonemus petersii ♂ × Campylomormyrus compressirostris ♀) are fertile
Authors: Korniienko Yevheniia , Nzimora Kingsley C. , Vater Marianne , Tiedemann Ralph , Kirschbaum Frank
Published: February 2022

Hybridisation is an important element of adaptive radiation in fish but data are limited in weakly electric mormyrid fish in this respect. Recently, it has been shown that intragenus hybrids (Campylomormyrus) are fertile and are able to produce F2-fish. In this paper, we demonstrate that even intergenus hybrids (Gnathonemus petersii ♂ × Campylomormyrus compressirostris ♀) are fertile. Three artificial reproduction (AR) trials, with an average fertilisation rate of ca. 23%, yielded different numbers of survivals (maximally about 50%) of the F1-hybrids. The complete ontogenetic development of these hybrids is described concerning their morphology and electric organ discharge (EOD). Two EOD types emerged at the juvenile stage, which did not change up to adulthood. Type I consisted of four phases and Type II was triphasic. The minimum body length at sexual maturity was between 10 and 11 cm. Malformations, growth and mortality rates are also described.
Balance Evaluation Systems Test: deutsche Übersetzung, kulturelle Anpassung und erste Ergebnisse zu Gütekriterien
Authors: Haselwander Maren , Henes Yannick , Weisbrod Matthias , Diermayr Gudrun
Published: February 2022

Hintergrund

Der Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) evaluiert die Balancefähigkeit und identifiziert die dem Balancedefizit zugrunde liegenden Systeme.

Ziel

Primäre Ziele waren die Übersetzung und kulturelle Anpassung des BESTest ins Deutsche. Sekundäres Ziel war die Testung der Gütekriterien.

Methode

Der Übersetzungs- und Anpassungsprozess erfolgte in 7 Schritten in Anlehnung an internationale Richtlinien. Zur Testung der Gütekriterien wurden Personen mit subjektivem oder objektivem Balancedefizit eingeschlossen. Die Testung beinhaltete die Bestimmung der internen Konsistenz mittels Cronbachs α und der Kriteriumsvalidität mittels Korrelation mit der Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Die Konstruktvalidität wurde mit der Activities-Specific Balance Confidence-Scale (ABC‑D Scale) sowie anhand der Methode der bekannten Gruppen (gestürzte vs. nichtgestürzte Teilnehmende) untersucht.

Ergebnisse

Von 27 Personen liegen Ergebnisse zur Testung der Gütekriterien vor. Cronbachs α beträgt 0,95 für die Gesamtskala. Der Zusammenhang der BESTest-Werte mit denen der BBS lag mit Spearmans rho bei ρ = 0,84 (p < 0,001) und mit denen der ABC‑D Scale bei ρ = 0,61 (p < 0,001). Gestürzte und Nichtgestürzte zeigten nur im Trend unterschiedliche BESTest Werte (p = 0,057).

Diskussion

Mit dieser Arbeit steht eine von der Entwicklerin autorisierte deutsche Übersetzung des BESTest zur Verfügung. Diese vorläufigen Ergebnisse bestätigen die Reliabilität und die Validität der Originalversion.
T1 bladder carcinoma with variant histology: pathological features and clinical significance
Authors: Lopez-Beltran Antonio , Blanca Ana , Cimadamore Alessia , Montironi Rodolfo , Luque Rafael J. , Volavšek Metka , Cheng Liang
Published: February 2022

The aim of the study was to stratify high-grade T1 (HGT1) bladder urothelial carcinoma into risk categories based on the presence of variant histology when compared to conventional urothelial carcinoma. The clinicopathological features of 104 HGT1 cases of urothelial carcinoma of the bladder with variant histology present in 34 (37%) were assessed. The endpoint of the study was disease-free survival and cancer-specific survival. Overall, variant histology was identified as a significant predictor of disease-free survival (P = 0.035). The presence of any specific variant histology (squamous, glandular, micropapillary, nested, microcystic, inverted growth, villous-like, basaloid, and lymphoepithelioma-like) was identified as a significant predictor of disease-free survival (P = 0.008) and cancer-specific survival (P = 0.0001) in HGT1 bladder cancer. Therefore, our results support including micropapillary HGT1 urothelial carcinoma within the aggressive high-risk category, as suggested by some recent clinical guidelines, but also favor nested, glandular, and basaloid to be placed in the high-risk category due to their potential of aggressive, life-threatening behavior and their limited response to bacillus Calmette-Guerin therapy. Conversely, the low-risk category would include urothelial carcinomas with squamous, inverted growth, or microcystic morphology, all with limited life-threatening potential and good response to current therapy. A very low-risk category would finally include patients whose tumors present villous-like or lymphoepithelioma-like morphology. In conclusion, our findings support the value of reporting the variant histology as a feature of variable aggressiveness in HGT1 urothelial carcinoma of the bladder.
Prevalence of Neospora caninum antibodies in fattening pigs and sows from intensive farms in northern Italy
Authors: Villa Luca , Gazzonis Alessia Libera , Allievi Carolina , Zanzani Sergio Aurelio , Mortarino Michele , Manfredi Maria Teresa
Published: February 2022

Neospora caninum(Apicomplexa, Sarcocystidae) is a major cause of reproductive failure in cattle. In pigs, only a few studies investigated the effects of this parasite on reproductive efficiency. Considering the relevance of swine farms in northern Italian regions, an epidemiological survey was designed to investigate the spread ofN. caninuminfection. Three hundred seventy fattening pigs and sows from 23 intensive farms in Lombardy were sampled. Sera were analyzed by a commercial immunofluorescence antibody test. Statistical analysis through univariate and multivariate generalized linear models was conducted to detect farm management practices enhancing the risk of infection. At the farm level, 52.1% (12/23) of the selected farms, 72.7% housing sows and 40% fattening pigs, scored positive. At the individual level, 25 animals (25/370,P = 6.7%) were positive toN. caninumantibodies: one fattening pig and two sows showed an antibody titer of 1:100, and in two sows, an antibody titer of 1:400 and 1:6400 was evidenced. A higher seroprevalence was detected in sows (17/151,P = 11.2%) if compared to fattening pigs (8/219,P = 3.6%) (OR = 1.19,Pvalue = 0.000 in sows). Moreover, a higher seroprevalence was recorded in farms with low and moderate sanitary score (P = 100% andP = 64.2%, respectively) if compared to farms with high sanitary score (P = 22.2%) (OR = 1.24,Pvalue = 0.007 in score = 1 and OR = 1.10,Pvalue = 0.050 in score = 2). This study provides the first data on the circulation ofN. caninumin intensive swine farms in Italy, demonstrating the spread of the parasite in fattening pigs and sows in Lombardy region.
Quality of life of colorectal cancer survivors participating in a pilot randomized controlled trial of physical activity trackers and daily text messages
Authors: Chan Hilary , Van Loon Katherine , Kenfield Stacey A. , Chan June M. , Mitchell Emily , Zhang Li , Paciorek Alan , Joseph Galen , Laffan Angela , Atreya Chloe , Fukuoka Yoshimi , Miaskowski Christine , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , Venook Alan P. , Van Blarigan Erin L.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

There are over 1.3 million colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors in the USA, many of whom report lower health-related quality of life (HRQoL) years after treatment. This study aimed to explore the effect of digital health tools on HRQoL in CRC survivors.

Methods

We conducted a two-arm, randomized controlled trial of 42 subjects who had completed treatment for CRC. Participants in the intervention arm received a Fitbit Flex™ and daily text messages for 12 weeks. HRQoL was assessed as a secondary endpoint in both arms at enrollment and 12 weeks using the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form Survey (SF-36) and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Colorectal (FACT-C). Survey score changes from enrollment to 12 weeks were compared between the two arms using independent t tests, and scores at enrollment and 12 weeks were compared using paired t tests.

Results

An increase in the FACT-C functional well-being subscale was observed in individuals in the intervention arm pre- to post-intervention (median difference, 2; interquartile range (IQR), 1, 4; P = .02). Although the between-group comparison was not statistically significant, no change in the functional well-being subscale was observed in the control arm (median difference, 0; IQR, 1, 1; P = .71). No other measures of HRQoL appeared to differ within arm across time points or between arms.

Conclusion

A 12-week digital physical activity intervention may improve functional well-being among CRC survivors. Larger randomized studies are needed to determine if digital health tools improve functional well-being among CRC survivors and if this improvement can be sustained over time.

Trial registration

NCT02966054; registration date, November 17, 2016
The Jurassic meta-ophiolitic rocks of Cape Steno, Andros, Greece: a high-pressure/low-temperature mélange with Pelagonian affinity in the Cycladic Blueschist Unit?
Authors: Höhn Melina , Bröcker Michael , Berndt Jasper
Published: February 2022

This study aims at clarifying the relationship between the Cape Steno mélange, southern Andros, and the main tectonic units of the Attic-Cycladic Crystalline Belt. Jurassic protolith ages and geochemical characteristics indicate a Pelagonian affinity and point to a correlative relationship with the Tsiknias Ophiolite on Tinos Island. However, jadeitites and high-Si phengite in the gneisses clearly indicate a high-pressure metamorphic overprint that is unknown from the Tsiknias outcrop and other occurrences of the Upper Cycladic Unit. A correlation with the Cycladic Blueschist Unit (CBU) is an obvious assumption, but initially seemed difficult to reconcile with the Cretaceous protolith ages of meta-ophiolitic rocks from the CBU and distinct geochemical characteristics of associated jadeitites. The Jurassic ages of the Cape Steno rock suite either document a broader spectrum of source rocks than previously known from the CBU, or the existence of a distinct tectonic unit. We assume that the geological and tectono-metamorphic evolution of the Cape Steno occurrence is similar to that of the Makrotantalon Unit of NW Andros, which represents a Pelagonian subunit in the nappe stack of the CBU, with abundant slices of serpentinites, rare meta-gabbro and a metamorphic history comprising both Cretaceous and Eocene HP/LT episodes.
Analysis of purple urine bag syndrome by low vacuum scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Abe Makoto , Furuichi Masahito , Ishimitsu Toshihiko , Tojo Akihiro
Published: February 2022

Purple urine bag syndrome (PUBS) is seen in the prolonged indwelling bladder catheters, and the mechanism of its onset was investigated using low vacuum scanning electron microscopy (LVSEM), which enables us to study the 3D structure of urinary sediments and urine bag walls. The urinary sediment and urine bags of 2 cases of PUBS were observed by LVSEM. The urine was brown turbid urine with a pH of 8.5, and magnesium phosphate stones and granules were observed in the urinary sediment together with Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacilli. Bacteria that moved by Brownian motion were observed with a dark-field microscope. LVSEM showed granular crystals around the bacilli, cocci, or mycelium that adhered to the walls of the bag. Granular crystals were dissolved in chloroform and presumed to be a mixture of the bacterial metabolites indigo blue and indirubin red. LVSEM also detected unusual tubular and honeycomb-like graphene in the urinary sediments, which were derived from the inner layer of the silicon elastomer-coated rubber catheter. LVSEM revealed purple crystals produced by bacteria or fungi attached to the urine bag that caused PUBS.
Multiple divergent patterns in yellow-cedar growth driven by anthropogenic climate change
Authors: Comeau Vanessa M. , Daniels Lori D.
Published: February 2022

The global rise in temperature and associated changes in climate have led to decline of forests around the globe, across multiple species and ecosystems. A particularly severe example of this is yellow-cedar (Callitropsis nootkatensis) decline along the coast of British Columbia and Alaska, where anthropogenic climate change has led to reduced insulating snowpack, leaving yellow-cedar roots vulnerable to thaw-freeze events, resulting in freezing damage to fine roots and water stress during the subsequent growing season. This includes abundant evidence of tree decline and mortality on the islands of Haida Gwaii. Yellow-cedar decline is complex, with the potential for freezing injury over multiple years and damage that can accumulate over time. We found trees in various stages of decline, from long dead to currently declining, and multiple growth patterns at each study site. We conducted a principal component analysis and identified patterns of divergent growth and divergent response to climate among yellow-cedars within the same stands, across all sites, including three distinct periods of an onset of growth decline (1960s, 1990s, 2000s). Yellow-cedars affected by decline were decreasing in growth and negatively associated with warmer drier winter conditions, whereas yellow-cedars not affected by decline were increasing in growth and positively associated with warmer growing season temperatures. The limiting factors for declining trees, warm dry winter conditions, are consistent with the hypothesis from the mainland that climate warming has led to root freezing. Our research highlights the need to consider multiple signals within a site that would be masked by a single site-level chronology. This is especially relevant within the context of forest decline, where stressors may have differing effects on individual trees.

Graphical abstract
Protective effects of Persea americana fruit and seed extracts against chemically induced liver cancer in rats by enhancing their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and apoptotic activities
Authors: Ahmed Osama M. , Fahim Hanaa I. , Mohamed Eman E. , Abdel-Moneim Adel
Published: February 2022

This study aims to explore the chemopreventive mechanisms of hydroethanolic extracts from avocado (Persea Americana) in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)/2-acetylaminofluorene (2AAF)-induced hepatocarcinogenesis. Chemical induction of hepatocarcinogenesis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of DEN at 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) twice a week for a fortnight, followed by oral administration of 2AAF at 20 mg/kg b.w. four times a week for 3 weeks. Rats administered DEN/2AAF were orally treated with hydroethanolic extracts of avocado fruits and seeds at a dose of 50 mg/kg b.w. every other day for 20 weeks. Moreover, rats administered DEN/2AAF and treated with avocado extracts revealed a marked decrease in liver enzyme activities, total bilirubin levels, and elevated liver tumor markers, but revealed an increase in total protein and albumin levels. The hepatocytes with hyperchromatic and bile duct cystadenoma observed in the liver of rats administered DEN/2AAF were reduced due to treatment with avocado extracts. Furthermore, the treatments prevented the elevation of lipid peroxidation levels and ameliorated the lowered glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, superoxide dismutase activities, and glutathione content in the liver tissues. Also, antigen Ki-67, cyclooxygenase-2, and nuclear factor kappa-B expression levels were decreased, but of the suppressor proteins p53 and BAX levels were increased in the liver of rats administered DEN/2AAF and treated with avocado extracts. In conclusion, the current results demonstrated that avocado extracts could abate hepatocarcinogenesis in rats administered DEN/2AAF through activation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and apoptotic properties.
An update of the prevalence of osteoporosis, fracture risk factors, and medication use among community-dwelling older adults: results from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA)
Authors: McArthur Caitlin , Lee Ahreum , Alrob Hajar Abu , Adachi Jonathan D. , Giangregorio Lora , Griffith Lauren E. , Morin Suzanne , Thabane Lehana , Ioannidis George , Lee Justin , Leslie William D. , Papaioannou Alexandra
Published: February 2022

Summary

The prevalence of self-reported and DXA-confirmed osteoporosis was 7.8% (males 2.2%; females 12.7%), and 3.6% (males 1.2%; females 5.9%), respectively. We found that most community-dwelling older adults at high fracture risk are not taking osteoporosis medication, particularly males. There is a major opportunity for improved primary fracture prevention in the community.

Purpose

To provide an up-to-date prevalence estimate of osteoporosis, fracture risk factors, fracture risk, and the proportion of older Canadians at high fracture risk who are not taking an osteoporosis medication.

Methods

We included Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) participants: a community-dwelling cohort aged 45 to 85 years who completed the baseline (2015) comprehensive interview and had dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans (N = 30,097). We describe the age- and sex-stratified prevalence of (1) self-reported osteoporosis; (2) DXA-confirmed osteoporosis; (3) fracture risk factors and people who are at high risk (FRAX® major osteoporotic fracture probability ≥ 20%); and (4) people who are at high fracture risk not taking osteoporosis medications. Sampling weights, as defined by the CLSA, were applied.

Results

The mean age of participants was 70.0 (SD 10.3). Overall, 7.8% had self-reported osteoporosis (males 2.2%; females 12.7%) while 3.6% had DXA-confirmed osteoporosis (males 1.2%; females 5.9%), and 2.8% were at high fracture risk (males 0.3%; females 5.1%). Of people who had osteoporosis and were at high risk, 77.3% were not taking an osteoporosis medication (males 92.3%; females 76.8%).

Conclusions

Our study provides an up-to-date prevalence estimate of osteoporosis for community-dwelling older Canadians. We found that most community-dwelling older adults at high fracture risk are not taking an osteoporosis medication, particularly males. There is a major opportunity for improved primary fracture prevention in the community.