bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of a Film Model to Mass Transfer and Chemical Reaction at a Plasma-Liquid Interface
Authors: Peyres Sean M. , Wang Jian , Hollyfield Drew W. , Abuyazid Nabiel H. , Sankaran R. Mohan , Üner Necip B.
Published: October 2024

Plasma electrodes provide novel ways of conducting electrochemical processes in liquids, in particular because of the ability to generate unique reactive radical species. However, the radicals injected into the liquid and their ensuing reactions are often confined to a narrow region near the interface of the plasma and the liquid. Thus, mass transfer has been found to play an important role in the observed kinetics and a modeling framework that includes both transport and kinetics is required to interpret experimental data. Here, we apply the idea of a film model for interphase mass transfer to plasma-liquid electrochemical processes, whereby transport is described by a stagnant film that is inherently linked to the concentration boundary layer and the mass transfer coefficient. Equations that govern the transport and reaction of radicals and substrates within the film are solved assuming a quasi-steady state approximation. The model is applied to specific case studies from the literature to estimate important parameters that are difficult to measure experimentally, such as the mass transfer coefficient. Our study shows that a film model can elucidate the effect of mass transfer on observed conversion rates and allow the intrinsic kinetics to be unraveled.
Method—Multi-Cell Testing with Active Driven Gas Layer Concept: Advantages and Limitations
Authors: Liu Y. , Hu Y. , Juckel M. , Menzler N. H. , Weber A.
Published: October 2024

This study validates a novel method for simultaneous durability testing of multiple symmetrical cells with Ni/ceria fuel electrodes. The investigation demonstrates that gas diffusion losses in the multi-cell test setup utilizing the active driven gas layer concept have a smaller impact on cell performance compared to the single-cell setup. This method proves effective for testing multiple identical cells, offering a time and cost-efficient approach. However, testing symmetrical cells with different fuel electrodes reveals an unexpected pseudo-inductive loop in the impedance spectra, observable only in the multi-cell setup. Analysis of impedance spectra and relaxation times indicates that differences in electrode polarization resistance result in varying gas compositions at the two electrodes of a cell, disrupting symmetry and superimposing an additional Nernst voltage term. To understand this, an electrical equivalent circuit model with the Nernst voltage term was developed to reproduce the observed behavior. Comparison of experimental and simulation results substantiates the model and elucidates the mechanisms. The findings indicate that testing multiple cells with the active driven gas layer concept is applicable only for identical cells and not for those with different electrodes.
Influence of Binding Agent on the Cutting Performance and Friction Wear Characteristics of Catalytic Composite Abrasive Cluster
Authors: Ding Yangyang , Wang Zhankui , Huang Shangci , Liu Kuncheng , Feng Wei , Pang Minghua , Chen Jiapeng , Su Jianxiu
Published: October 2024

To improve the polishing efficiency and process stability of catalytic composite abrasive clusters (CCAC), CCAC containing different binding agent ratios was investigated. Five groups of CCAC with different binding agent ratios were prepared for friction chemical polishing of silicon carbide (SiC), respectively. Based on material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (Ra) as evaluation metrics, the polishing performance of five groups of CCAC were compared. Subsequently, wear experiments were carried by block shaped CCAC with diameter of 1.6 mm, as well as single crystal diamond (SCD) abrasives with the same particle size. The friction coefficient and the cross-sectional area at the worn area of wear were measured to evaluate the effect of binding agent content on the continuous cutting performance of the abrasive as well as on the tribological properties. The experimental results showed that #3 abrasive exhibited the highest machining efficiency (MRR reaches 330.535 nm min−1) and better surface roughness (Ra reaches 22.741 nm). Excessive or insufficient bonding agent in CCAC will affect the processing performance of the abrasive. When the proportion of binding agent in the abrasive is 25%, CCAC has better processing ability and can realize efficient polishing of SiC wafers.
Investigating the Impact of Pad Groove Depth Reduction on Process Variation in Oxide Chemical Mechanical Polishing
Authors: Liu Pengzhan , Kang Chul , Oh Shinil , Jeon Sanghuck , Lee Hyeonjeong , Wang Ziyang , Jeong Hyunjin , Lee Euihaeng , Kim TaeSung
Published: October 2024

The groove depth of a polishing pad diminishes due to continuous wear from the diamond conditioner. Over the course of approximately 20 h of use, this reduction in groove depth enhances slurry flow across both the pad grooves and surface. A fluid simulation analysis indicates that the new slurry mass fraction at 0.51 s increases from 72.34% for an 850 μm groove depth to 100.00% for a 250 μm depth. Consequently, polishing performance metrics including removal rate, within-wafer nonuniformity (WIWNU), and added defects exhibit variations commensurate with groove depth alterations. To explore the influence of process parameters on these polishing performance metrics, oxide film polishing experiments were conducted using pads with initial groove depths of 250, 500, 750, and 850 μm. The effects of process parameters, including pad cut rate, retainer ring pressure, and slurry flow rate on polishing were separately examined across different groove depth pads. Generally, shallow groove pads display improved removal rates but worse WIWNU. Additionally, the maximum surface temperature of the pads was recorded, serving as an indirect indicator of individual parameter effects. The findings have implications for advanced process control, guiding the optimization of polishing protocol in consideration of pad lifetime.
Improvement of Capacitive Accelerometers: Integrating Modeling, Electrode Design, Signal Processing, and Material Selection
Authors: Ghemari Zine , Belkhiri Salah
Published: October 2024

This work offers a thorough method for integrating advanced modeling, electrode design, signal processing, and material selection techniques to maximize the performance of capacitive accelerometers. Key performance measures, including noise reduction, sensitivity, and range, can be systematically analyzed and simulated to forecast how design decisions would affect the overall behavior of the sensor. Advanced electrode designs greatly increase capacitance, which results in more precise and trustworthy sensor readings. These designs include optimizing the shape and using high-permittivity materials. Furthermore, to guarantee that the accelerometer’s output precisely represents actual motion even in noisy surroundings, noise reduction strategies including filtering and digital signal processing methods are essential. Additionally, calibration is emphasized as a critical step in preserving measurement accuracy over time and accounting for environmental changes and sensor drift. The choice of material, with an emphasis on thermally stable and high-permittivity materials, is crucial in determining the capacitance, sensitivity, and durability of the sensor. The study offers a paradigm for the creation of capacitive accelerometers that perform better across a variety of applications by striking a balance between these variables.
NF-кB promotes aggresome formation via upregulating HDAC6 and in turn maintaining Vimentin cage
Authors: Chen Jo-Mei Maureen , Chuang Cheng-Yen , Cheng Chiao-Yun , Liao Yu-Ting Amber , Liao Yi-Hao Calvin , Pan Chih-Ming , Huang Yu-Ting Jenny , Wei Tong-You Wade , Tsai Jia-Rong , Lee Li-Wen , Chiu Shao-Chih , Yu Chang-Tze Ricky
Published: October 2024

The study reveals a new mechanism guiding MG132-triggered aggresome formation. NF-кB is quickly activated upon exposure to MG132, and NF-кB upregulates the misfolded protein recognizing factor HDCA6. In addition to collecting misfolded proteins, HDAC6 also binds Vimentin and maintains the Vimentin cage, which quarantines toxic misfolded proteins and protects cells from being toxified by those protein toxicants. Therapeutically, chemical inactivation of NF-кB synergizes MG132-induced cytotoxicity, providing a new strategy to defeat cancers.
Relationship between regional sympathetic vascular transduction and sympathetic transduction of blood pressure in young adults at rest
Authors: McCarthy Devin G. , Nardone Massimo , Pfundt Kathryn , Millar Philip J.
Published: October 2024

The majority of studies have used signal-averaged sympathetic transduction of blood pressure as a generalized measure of transduction. In this analysis, we show that sympathetic transduction of blood pressure and regional sympathetic vascular transduction were moderately correlated in healthy adults at rest. The moderate strength of this relationship highlights potential differences between regional and systemic assessments of sympathetic transduction and suggests that future work should choose the transduction measure best aligned with the research question.
Study on the Combustion and Emission Characteristic of a Heavy‐Duty Natural Gas/Ammonia RCCI Engine with Diesel Ignition
Authors: Zhou Weijian , Wang Hongnan , Zhou Song , Shreka Majed
Published: October 2024

As a carrier of hydrogen, ammonia has great potential in reducing pollution and carbon. This paper investigates the impact of diesel compression ignition on the combustion and emission performance of a natural gas/ammonia mixture RCCI engine through numerical simulation. The energy fraction of ammonia is set from 0% to 100% in the study to evaluate the feasibility of ammonia application in heavy‐duty natural gas/diesel RCCI engines. A natural gas/n‐heptane/ammonia reaction mechanism that includes 89 species and 611 reactions was innovatively established, which can accurately simulate the ignition process. The results indicate that under all engine load conditions, as the ammonia energy fraction increases, the cylinder pressure and thermal efficiency of the engine decrease, and the power performance gradually weakens. Under high load conditions, when ammonia is added to premixed natural gas, as the ammonia energy fraction increases, the characteristic frequency near the resonance mode gradually disappears, which is beneficial for reducing the knock trend and ringing intensity of engines. However, due to the increase in incomplete combustion increase, the ammonia energy fraction should not be too large at high loads.
Diabetic Neuropathy Is Related to Rhinencephalon Degeneration in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Chudzinski Maciej , Karmelita-Katulska Katarzyna , Duda-Sobczak Anna , Fijalkowska-Ratajczak Tatiana , Kopec Jakub , Michalak Michal , Zozulinska-Ziolkiewicz Dorota , Araszkiewicz Aleksandra
Published: October 2024

Aims: We aimed to assess neurodegenerative changes in the rhinencephalon via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and relate it to olfactory function and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Materials and Methods: Individuals aged 18–65 with T1D duration over 10 years and control healthy subjects underwent olfactory assessment using Sniffin’Sticks and brain MRI to assess volumetric measurements of the olfactory bulbs and piriform cortex thickness.

Results: 32 T1D (24 males) aged 43.5 years (IQR: 37.0–48), diabetes duration 24.5 years (IQR: 20.5–27.0), and A1C 7.95% (IQR: 7.4–8.4) were assessed. The control group consisted of 6 healthy adults (4 males) aged 41.0 years (IQR: 36.0–48.0). Significantly lower olfactory test results in TDI (threshold‐differentiation‐identification) (31.5 (IQR: 28.7–33.6) vs. 34.1 (IQR: 33.2–37.2), p = 0.02) were obtained in the T1D as compared to the controls. Summarized olfactory bulb (OB) volumes and thickness of the left pyriform cortex were significantly smaller in T1D than in controls (65.8 mm3 (IQR: 57.9–71.7) vs. 75.8 mm3 (IQR: 74.8–76.7); p = 0.0005 and 3.1 mm (IQR: 2.7–3.4) vs. 3.6 mm (IQR: 3.5–4.1); p =0.02). Patients with DPN had significantly smaller OB volumes than patients without DPN (58.1 mm3 (IQR: 54.0–70.9) vs. 69.8 mm3 (IQR: 65.0–72.2); p = 0.02). Tobacco smoking (β: −7.89; p = 0.013) and DPN (β:−7.02; p = 0.015) proved to be independent predictors of OB volume.

Conclusions: In adults with a long history of T1D, olfactory function and structures are impaired. The presence of diabetic neuropathy and ongoing smoking addiction might be considered predictors of the degradation of rhinencephalon structures in people with T1D.
Comparative Evaluation of Native and Liposomal Curcumin Against Acute Reproductive Toxicity Induced by Cadmium Chloride in Male Mice
Authors: Azizi Arezou , Mohammadi-Sardoo Mohaddeseh , Sharififar Fariba , Zeinali Majid , Pardakhty Abbas , Iranpour Maryam , Mohammadi Elaheh , Moballegh Nasery Mahshid , Mandegary Ali
Published: October 2024

Exposure to cadmium chloride (Cd) is linked to reproductive disorders. Curcumin (CUR), a traditional medicinal compound, has been considered for its therapeutic properties. The present study evaluated the antioxidant effects of CUR and liposomal CUR on Cd‐induced testicular toxicity. Mice were exposed to Cd (2.5 mg/kg as a single intraperitoneal dose), Cd + CUR at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, and Cd + liposomal CUR (15 mg/kg) orally for 7 days. At the end of the treatment period, histological studies, sperm parameters, oxidative stress parameters, and blood–testis barrier (BTB) integrity were performed. Cd‐induced histopathological deleterious changes in the testis and epididymis tissues increased BTB permeability. It caused a significant decrease in sperm count and viability (p < 0.001), as well as an increase in sperm abnormality (p < 0.001) and a reduction in the antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) (p < 0.001), and increased lipid peroxidation (LPO; p < 0.001) compared to the control group. Co‐treatment of CUR with Cd dose‐dependently and significantly attenuated Cd’s destructive effects on sperm and oxidative stress parameters at 50 mg/kg (p < 0.01) and 100, 200 mg/kg (p < 0.001). Although the liposomal form of CUR showed protective effects against some Cd‐induced changes, such as sperm viability and count (p < 0.001), it did not significantly improve LPO and GSH levels. The results indicated that native CUR prevented Cd‐induced reproductive toxicity in male mice by suppressing oxidative injury, and there was no superior effect of liposomal CUR over native CUR.
Assessing 1-Year Comorbidity Prevalence and Its Survival Implications in Medicare Beneficiaries Diagnosed with Cancer: Insights from a New SEER–Medicare Resource
Authors: Noone Anne-Michelle , Mariotto Angela B. , Hong Yoon Duk , Enewold Lindsey
Published: October 2024

Background:

Almost half of Medicare beneficiaries diagnosed with cancer from 1992 to 2005 had at least one comorbid condition. Conditions affect a range of domains from clinical decision-making to quality of life, which are important to consider when conducting cancer research. We introduce a new Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)–Medicare resource to facilitate using claims data for patients with cancer.

Methods:

We use the SEER–Medicare resource to estimate prevalence of comorbidities, 5-year survival rate by cancer site, stage, age and comorbidity severity, and prevalence of surgery by comorbidity for breast, prostate, colorectal and lung cancers.

Results:

Overall, the most prevalent comorbidities in the year prior to cancer diagnosis were diabetes (27%), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (22%), peripheral vascular disease (14%), and congestive heart failure (12%). Comorbidity severity had a greater impact on the probability of dying from noncancer causes than dying from cancer. Severity of comorbidity and age consistently increased the probability of noncancer death. The percentage of persons receiving surgery tended to be lower among those with severe comorbidity.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates the utility of new SEER*Stat databases that contain Medicare beneficiaries and claims-based measures of comorbidity. Our results demonstrate that comorbidity is common among older persons diagnosed with cancer and the impact of comorbidity on the probability of dying from cancer varies by cancer site, stage at diagnosis, and age.

Impact:

Comorbidity is common among persons with cancer and affects survival. Future research on the impact of comorbidity among cancer survivors is facilitated by new databases.
Alcohol Consumption and Smoking History at the Time of Diagnosis and the Risk of Colorectal Cancer Recurrence and Mortality: Results from the ColoCare Study
Authors: Loroña Nicole C. , Himbert Caroline , Ose Jennifer , Cohen Stacey A. , Strehli Ildiko , Ulrich Cornelia M. , Cobos Sofia , Jean-Baptiste Esther , Bloomer Amanda M. , Figueiredo Jane C. , Gigic Biljana , Hardikar Sheetal , Karchi Meghana , Mutch Matthew , Peoples Anita R. , Schneider Martin , Shibata David , Siegel Erin M. , Toriola Adetunji T. , Wood Elizabeth H. , Li Christopher I.
Published: October 2024

Background:

Findings from studies investigating the impacts of alcohol use and smoking on colorectal cancer outcomes are inconclusive. This study aimed to investigate associations between alcohol use and smoking status at the time of diagnosis on recurrence and overall mortality among patients with colorectal cancer.

Methods:

The present study included 2,216 stage I–IV patients with colorectal cancer from the longitudinal multicenter ColoCare Study, with available data on recurrence and colorectal cancer–specific mortality. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for age, sex, race, ethnicity, stage, tumor site, treatment, comorbidities, body mass index, and study site were fit, with imputations for missing data.

Results:

We observed 235 recurrences and 308 colorectal cancer–specific deaths over an average of 3 years of follow-up. After adjusting for confounders, current alcohol consumption and ever smoking, relative to not current consumption and never smoking, respectively, were not statistically significantly associated with colorectal cancer recurrence [alcohol—HR, 0.95. 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.71–1.29; ever smoking—HR, 0.98, 95% CI, 0.75–1.29] or colorectal cancer–specific mortality (alcohol—HR, 0.95. 95% CI, 0.74–1.22; ever smoking—HR, 0.98, 95% CI, 0.77–1.24).

Conclusions:

No associations were observed between alcohol and smoking at diagnosis and clinical outcomes in this well-annotated longitudinal cohort.

Impact:

Our cohort study reports no significant associations; however, limiting alcohol use and avoiding smoking are health behaviors recommended for colorectal cancer survivors for prevention of other cancers and chronic conditions.
Determination of MYD88 and CXCR4 Mutations for Clinical Detection and Their Significance in Waldenström Macroglobulinemia
Authors: Yan Yuting , Yu Ying , Xiong Wenjie , Wang Jun , Yao Yao , Jia Yujiao , Huang Yanshan , Li Yuxi , Wang Tingyu , Lyu Rui , Sun Hao , Wang Haoxu , Wang Qi , Liu Wei , An Gang , Sui Weiwei , Xu Yan , Huang Wenyang , Yu Zhen , Zou Dehui , Hao Mu , Xiao Zhijian , Wang Jianxiang , Qiu Lugui , Yi Shuhua
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

This study aims to explore the incidence and clinical features of MYD88 and CXCR4 mutations in patients with Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) and determine the optimal method for routine clinical practice. Additionally, we seek to evaluate the prognostic significance of these features across various therapeutic backgrounds [the cytotoxic group, the rituximab/bortezomib-based group, and the Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor (BTKi) group].

Experimental Design:

A total of 385 symptomatic patients with WM were analyzed for MYD88 and CXCR4 mutations using Sanger sequencing, next-generation sequencing, allele-specific qPCR (AS-PCR), and/or droplet digital PCR (ddPCR).

Results:

The overall MYD88 mutation rate was 87.8%, relatively lower than that in the Western cohort. Both AS-PCR and ddPCR demonstrated high sensitivity in unsorted samples, detecting 98.5% and 97.7% of mutations, respectively, including those with low tumor burdens. The total CXCR4 mutation rate was 30.9%, with next-generation sequencing exhibiting the highest sensitivity of 78.0%. CXCR4 mutation was significantly linked to shorter OS only within the BTKi treatment group. The multivariate analysis indicated that MYD88 and CXCR4 mutations were not independent prognostic factors in the non-BTKi group when considering the International Prognostic Scoring System for Waldenström macroglobulinemia (IPSSWM) clinical staging. However, in the BTKi treatment group, these mutations emerged as independent adverse prognostic factors, overshadowing the prognostic significance of the IPSSWM classification (MYD88: HR, 0.229; P = 0.030; CXCR4: HR, 3.349; P = 0.012).

Conclusions:

Testing for MYD88 mutations using AS-PCR or ddPCR in unsorted samples is viable for routine clinical practice. Under BTKi treatment, MYD88 and CXCR4 mutations hold greater prognostic importance than IPSSWM staging in WM.
Tissue-Based Profiling Techniques to Achieve Precision Medicine in Cancer: Opportunities and Challenges in Melanoma
Authors: Gide Tuba N. , Mao Yizhe , Scolyer Richard A. , Long Georgina V. , Wilmott James S.
Published: October 2024

Immunotherapies targeting the programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) checkpoint receptors have revolutionized the treatment of metastatic melanoma. However, half of the treated patients do not respond to or eventually progress on standard therapies and many experience adverse events as a result of drug toxicity. The identification of accurate biomarkers of clinical outcomes are required in order to move away from the one-size-fits-all treatment approach of standard clinical practice and toward a more personalized approach to enable the administration of the optimal therapy for any given patient and further improve patient outcomes. Recent clinical trials have proven the potential of multiomics analyses, including genomic, gene expression, and tumor immune profiling, of patients’ tumor biopsies, to predict a patient’s response to subsequently administered immunotherapies. However, reproducibility of such multiomics analyses, tissue requirements, and clinical validation have limited the practical application of these approaches in routine clinical workflows. In this review, we discuss several pivotal tissue-based profiling techniques that can be utilized to identify potential genomic, transcriptomic, and immune biomarkers predictive of clinical outcomes following treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors in melanoma. Furthermore, we highlight the key opportunities and challenges associated with the use of each of these techniques. The development and implementation of multimodal predictive models that combine data derived from these various methods is the future for achieving precision medicine for patients with melanoma.
Glioblastoma Cortical Organoids Recapitulate Cell-State Heterogeneity and Intercellular Transfer
Authors: Mangena Vamsi , Chanoch-Myers Rony , Sartore Rafaela , Paulsen Bruna , Gritsch Simon , Weisman Hannah , Hara Toshiro , Breakefield Xandra O. , Breyne Koen , Regev Aviv , Chung Kwanghun , Arlotta Paola , Tirosh Itay , Suvà Mario L.
Published: October 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is characterized by heterogeneous malignant cells that are functionally integrated within the neuroglial microenvironment. In this study, we model this ecosystem by growing GBM into long-term cultured human cortical organoids that contain the major neuroglial cell types found in the cerebral cortex. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis suggests that, compared with matched gliomasphere models, GBM cortical organoids more faithfully recapitulate the diversity and expression programs of malignant cell states found in patient tumors. Additionally, we observe widespread transfer of GBM transcripts and GFP to nonmalignant cells in the organoids. Mechanistically, this transfer involves extracellular vesicles and is biased toward defined GBM cell states and astroglia cell types. These results extend previous GBM organoid modeling efforts and suggest widespread intercellular transfer in the GBM neuroglial microenvironment.

Significance: Models that recapitulate intercellular communications in GBM are limited. In this study, we leverage GBM cortical organoids to characterize widespread mRNA and GFP transfer from malignant to nonmalignant cells in the GBM neuroglial microenvironment. This transfer involves extracellular vesicles, may contribute to reprogramming the microenvironment, and may extend to other cancer types.

See related commentary by Shakya et al., p. 261
Contingency Management for Cannabis Use Disorder Treatment
Authors: Lima Marcelo G. , Tardelli Vitor S. , Fidalgo Thiago M.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Although recreational cannabis use and abuse are expressive worldwide, the comparison of worldwide used psychotherapies, such as cognitive behavior therapy, with contingency management in the treatment of cannabis use disorder remains inconclusive. Methods: We screened all articles published on MEDLINE (via PubMed) published until October 2023 and conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis. Results: Sixteen studies were included, and contingency management intervention likely promotes abstinence outcomes and more negative urinalyses for adults or adolescents with cannabis use disorder. Discussion: This review provides moderate- to high-quality evidence that contingency management can be used to treat cannabis use disorder. However, further trials need to be developed to analyze the quantity of substance use, personal achievements, and operational improvements after treatment.
Targeting Method for rTMS for Treating Depression in Japanese Patients: A Comparison of the Standard, F3, and Neuronavigation Approaches
Authors: Tsukuda Banri , Ikeda Shunichiro , Minami Shota , Katsura Koji , Shimizu Toshiyuki , Kame Tomohide , Nishida Keiichiro , Yoshimura Masafumi , Kinoshita Toshihiko
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (lDLPFC) is a commonly targeted brain region for repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for depression. The lDLPFC has been identified using the “5-cm rule.” However, identification of the lDLPFC may deviate from the ideal stimulation site localized by neuronavigation. Therefore, we aimed to compare this method with other methods and examine the relationship between deviation from the ideal stimulation site and treatment effects. While most existing studies have focused on participants of European descent, this study focused on Japanese participants. Methods: The study participants were 16 patients who underwent rTMS and had the stimulus location identified using the 5-cm method. The lDLPFC was identified by the F3 electrode position and neuronavigation in addition to the 5-cm rule, and these locations were compared. We then performed a correlation analysis of the distance between the sites identified by the 5-cm method and by neuronavigation, as well as changes in scores on the 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD-17). Results: The lDLPFC identified by the F3 site and neuronavigation was approximately 3 cm more anterolateral than that identified by the 5-cm method. A significant correlation was found between the distance between the sites identified by the 5-cm method and neuronavigation and the rate of change in HAMD-17 scores. Conclusion: The ideal stimulation site may be approximately 3 cm anterior to the site identified by the 5-cm method, and stimulation of the F3 site may be a valid alternative to the 5-cm method.
Gegen B-Zellen gerichtete chimäre Antigenrezeptor-T-Zellen als neue Therapie für neuroimmunologische Erkrankungen
Authors: Haghikia Aiden , Schett Georg , Mougiakakos Dimitrios
Published: October 2024

Hintergrund: Die Forschung und Entwicklung im Bereich der Neuroimmunologie hat bedeutende Fortschritte erzielt, insbesondere bei der Behandlung neuroimmunologischer Erkrankungen wie multipler Sklerose, Myasthenia gravis, Neuromyelitis-optica-Spektrum-Erkrankungen und der Myelin-Oligodendrozyten-Glykoprotein-Antikörper-Krankheit. Da allein für die multiple Sklerose mehr als 20 Medikamente zugelassen sind, kann die Behandlung individueller gestaltet werden. Die Zulassung von krankheitsmodifizierenden Therapien, insbesondere von B-Zell-gerichteten Therapien, hat die Rolle immuntherapeutischer Interventionen bei der Behandlung dieser Krankheiten unterstrichen. Trotz dieser Erfolge bleiben Herausforderungen bestehen, insbesondere für Patienten, die nicht auf konventionelle Therapien ansprechen. Dies unterstreicht den Bedarf an innovativen Ansätzen.
The Utility of an Human Papillomavirus Genotype Assay for Cancer Screening in Self-Collected Urine and Vaginal Samples from Japanese Women
Authors: Mizuno Mika , Kamio Masaki , Sakihama Mika , Yanazume Shintaro , Togami Shinichi , Kakizoe Tadao , Kobayashi Hiroaki
Published: October 2024

Objectives: The high incidence of invasive cervical cancer among those who have not undergone cancer screening is a serious problem. This study aimed to investigate the utility of human papillomavirus (HPV) test results from self-collected urine and vaginal samples as screening tools. Design: The study was conducted in two steps. First, the appropriate storage container, temperature, and time until urine HPV assay performance were verified. Second, the results of spot urine testing under those conditions and of gynecologist-collected cervical and self-collected vaginal samples were compared to verify the feasibility of using the BD Onclarity® HPV assay for individuals with abnormal cervical cytology. Participants/Materials, Setting, Methods: The participants were 121 women with abnormal cervical cytology. Self-collected urine and vaginal samples, along with gynecologist-collected cervical samples, were tested for HPV using the BD Onclarity® HPV assay. The optimal conditions for urine sample storage were identified by comparing the HPV detection rates under various conditions. Results: Urine stored in a BD Probe Tec™ (QxUPT) for less than 72 h at room temperature was found to have the highest HPV positivity rate. Under these conditions, the detection rates of HPV in urine, cervical, and vaginal samples were examined. HPV type 16 was detected in 41.7% of the cervical samples, type 18 in 10%, and types 31 and 52 in 12.6% each. The concordance rate for HPV testing between clinician-collected cervical and urine samples was 63.9% (kappa: 0.34; 95% CI: 0.21–0.47), and that between clinician-collected cervical and self-collected vaginal samples was 77.8% (kappa: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.53–0.83), indicating good concordance. In a population with an HPV-related lesion/tumor prevalence of approximately 70%, the sensitivity of HPV testing was 82.7% for the cervix, 46.4% for urine, and 75.7% for vaginal samples. Limitations: The primary limitation is the lower detection rate of HPV in spot urine samples than in other sample types, indicating room for methodological improvement. The study’s findings are based on a specific population, which may limit generalizability. Conclusions: We investigated the optimal self-collected urine-to-testing time and temperature. Self-collected vaginal and urine HPV tests show moderate-high concordance with clinician-collected cervical HPV tests, suggesting their potential utility for women who do not undergo regular cancer screening. However, the sensitivity was not high in spot urine. Therefore, further large-scale studies are needed to verify these findings and optimize testing methods to encourage broader participation in cancer screening programs.
Lipoprotein Apheresis: Utility, Outcomes, and Implementation in Clinical Practice: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Gianos Eugenia , Duell P. Barton , Toth Peter P. , Moriarty Patrick M. , Thompson Gilbert R. , Brinton Eliot A. , Hudgins Lisa C. , Nametka Mary , Byrne Kathleen H. , Raghuveer Geetha , Nedungadi Prashant , Sperling Laurence S. ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; Council on Clinical Cardiology; Council on Lifelong Congenital Heart Disease and Heart Health in the Young; and Council on Peripheral Vascular Disease
Published: October 2024

Despite the availability of multiple classes of lipoprotein-lowering medications, some high-risk patients have persistent hypercholesterolemia and may require nonpharmacologic therapy. Lipoprotein apheresis (LA) is a valuable but underused adjunctive therapeutic option for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and lipoprotein(a) lowering, particularly in children and adults with familial hypercholesterolemia. In addition to lipid lowering, LA reduces serum levels of proinflammatory and prothrombotic factors, reduces blood viscosity, increases microvascular myocardial perfusion, and may provide beneficial effects on endothelial function. Multiple observational studies demonstrate strong evidence for improved cardiovascular outcomes with LA; however, use in the United States is limited to a fraction of its Food and Drug Administration–approved indications. In addition, there are limited data regarding LA benefit for refractory focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. In this scientific statement, we review the history of LA, mechanisms of action, cardiovascular and renal outcomes data, indications, and options for treatment.
Aortic-Femoral Stiffness Gradient and Cardiovascular Risk in Older Adults
Authors: Stone Keeron , Fryer Simon , McDonnell Barry J. , Meyer Michelle L. , Faulkner James , Agharazii Mohsen , Fortier Catherine , Pugh Christopher J.A. , Paterson Craig , Zieff Gabriel , Chauntry Aiden J. , Kucharska-Newton Anna , Bahls Martin , Stoner Lee
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

The aortic-femoral arterial stiffness gradient, calculated as the ratio of lower-limb pulse-wave velocity (PWV) to central (aortic) PWV, is a promising tool for assessing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, but whether it predicts incident CVD is unknown.

METHODS:

We examined the association of the aortic-femoral arterial stiffness gradient measures carotid-femoral stiffness gradient (femoral-ankle PWV divided by carotid-femoral PWV) and the heart-femoral stiffness gradient (femoral-ankle PWV divided by heart-femoral PWV), as well as PWV, with incident CVD (coronary disease, stroke, and heart failure) and all-cause mortality among 3109 participants of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study cohort (age, 75±5 years; carotid-femoral PWV, 11.5±3.0 m/s), free of CVD. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% CIs.

RESULTS:

Over a median 7.4-year follow-up, there were 322 cases of incident CVD and 410 deaths. In fully adjusted models, only top quartiles of carotid-femoral stiffness gradient (quartile 4: HR, 1.43 [95% CI, 1.03–1.97]; and quartile 3: HR, 1.49 [95% CI, 1.08–2.05]) and heart-femoral stiffness gradient (quartile 4: HR, 1.77 [95% CI, 1.27–2.48]; and quartile 3: HR, 1.41 [95% CI, 1.00–2.00]) were significantly associated with a greater risk of incident CVD. Only high aortic stiffness in combination with low lower-limb stiffness was significantly associated with incident CVD (HR, 1.46 [95% CI, 1.06–2.02]) compared with the referent low aortic stiffness and high lower-limb stiffness. No PWVs were significantly associated with incident CVD. No exposures were associated with all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS:

The aortic-femoral arterial stiffness gradient may enhance CVD risk assessment in older adults in whom the predictive capacity of traditional risk factors and PWV are attenuated.
State and Personal Responsibility: War Crimes, Crimes of Aggression and Genocide in Ukraine
Authors:   Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University, Lapkin Andrii
Published: October 2024

This article examines international crimes committed on the territory of Ukraine since February 24, 2022. Ukraine faces explicit acts of aggression, with a multitude of war crimes—including murder, sexual violence, and deliberate attacks on civilian property and infrastructure—being perpetrated within its borders. Additionally, there are indications of genocidal intent. Urgent attention is required to investigate the violations of international humanitarian law. Further, the article identifies the main causes of war crimes committed by the military: military errors or failures, the use of civilians as “human shields,” insufficient discipline, inadequate inculcation of legal norms related to international humanitarian law and Just War Theory within military ranks, and the use of targeted terror aimed at crushing the enemy’s will to resist. The author examines the interrelation of war crimes and information warfare in light of the importance of discerning truth amidst a sea of disinformation and cover-up. Finally, he explores national and international mechanisms for bringing perpetrators of crimes to justice, as well as seeking compensation for the damage they caused.
Modernizing Personnel Management in the Armed Forces of Ukraine During Military Conflict: Training New Officers
Authors:   Central Research Institute of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Semenenko Oleh , Semenenko Liliia , Sirchenko Roman , Yarmolchyk Mariia , Kostrach Vitalii
Published: October 2024

Considering the ongoing military conflict with the Russian Federation, the modernization of the personnel management system of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is of utmost significance. Effective training of new officers is becoming a strategic task to strengthen the country’s defense capability and ensure national security. This research aims to thoroughly analyze and justify ways to modernize the personnel management system of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the context of the current military conflict, focusing on improving the education and training of the new generation of officers. It is based on a statistical analysis of data obtained through expert analysis and a survey of highly qualified professionals. The study demonstrated that the existing personnel management system of the Armed Forces of Ukraine requires significant modifications to respond to the current challenges of military operations. In particular, there is a need to introduce advanced teaching methods and use modern technologies in training officers. Additionally, improving the organizational structures that provide officer training is essential. This includes revising programs, adapting to modern conflicts, and implementing international training standards. Psychological and social aspects of the officer corps' design and development should be considered to ensure long-term stability and productivity. Special emphasis is placed on introducing international experience and cooperation with partner countries, exchange of experiences, joint exercises, and training programs.
Scrambling, Specificity Effects, and Phasal Variation in Turkish and Uyghur
Authors: Jenkins Robin
Published: October 2024

This article develops a new approach to specificity effects based on comparing differential object marking (DOM) in Turkish with a novel DOM paradigm observed in Uyghur. Based on this, I argue that specificity does not always correlate with VP-externality (Diesing 1992, i.a.) but rather with whether the object has moved to a particular structural position. Further, I show the variation observed between the two DOM paradigms can be captured as a result of a difference between the languages’ middle-field phase boundary. Several additional contrasts between the two languages are traced back to this difference in phase boundaries, which is also situated within a broader pattern of typological variation.
Taxonomy of the genus Diochus Erichson (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae, Staphylininae, Diochini) of Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands
Authors: HUANG TIAN , JANÁK JIŘÍ , ZHOU HONG-ZHANG
Published: October 2024

This paper presents taxonomic studies of the genus Diochus Erichson, 1839 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae, Staphylininae, Diochini) from Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands. Three new species are described: Diochus elongatus Huang, Janák & Zhou, sp. nov. and D. loebli Huang, Janák & Zhou, sp. nov. from Papua New Guinea, and D. chambrieri Huang, Janák & Zhou, sp. nov. from Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands. D. papuanus Cameron, 1939 is redescribed. All species are included in a key to species and are provided with color photos. The new species also with line drawing plates.
First records of Glyphus marsupialis Filhol, 1884 (Decapoda: Pasiphaeidae) in southwestern Atlantic deep waters and extensions of the known distribution of two Pasiphaea species
Authors: CARDOSO IRENE , MARTINS DÉBORAH ELENA GALVÃO , CINTRA ISRAEL HIDENBURGO ANICETO , ALVES-JÚNIOR FLÁVIO DE ALMEIDA
Published: October 2024

The Pasiphaeidae Dana, 1852 are a marine shrimp family occurring in both shallow and deeper waters, with its greatest diversity occurring in tropical and subtropical deep seas. This family includes seven genera and 104 species, and is globally distributed. Currently, the genus Pasiphaea Savigny, 1816 includes 73 species, seven of them recorded in the southwestern Atlantic. The genus Glyphus Filhol, 1884 is monotypic and is known from the Indo-Pacific region, the East Pacific Ocean and in the Eastern Atlantic. Herein, we report the first record of the genus in the southwestern Atlantic, completing a cosmopolitan distributional pattern. Further, two new records of Pasiphaea species are commented upon (P. major Hayashi, 2006; P. tarda Kroyer, 1845) along the Northern coastline of the Brazilian coast (Amapá state), also reporting a new host interaction between Thalassomyces sp. and P. major. This is the first record of this Ellobiopsidae genus in the South Atlantic Ocean. The material herein analyzed was sampled by the ReviZEE Program/North, in 1996/2001, during deep-water trawls in the Amazonian slope (Amapá state), at depths from 250 to 1100 m. All material is deposited in the Coleção Carcinológica do Laboratório de Crustáceos (Labcrus)/Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia (UFRA). The global distribution of Glyphus is commonly observed in deep species and although it has been occasionally contested by the discovery of species complexes (using very detailed morphological and molecular data analyses) with the currently available information, the present material is clearly identifiable as G. marsupialis.
Abrolophus from Australasia, and the mysterious Mypongia (Trombidiformes: Parasitengona: Erythraeidae)
Authors: SEEMAN OWEN D. , BEARD JENNIFER J. , FAN QING-HAI , OTTO JÜRGEN C.
Published: October 2024

An undetermined species of Abrolophus Berlese was intercepted in quarantine by Australian biosecurity on kiwifruit imported from New Zealand. Here, we show that these are the Australian species Abrolophus ripicola (Womersley, 1934), a species known from the post-larval stages only. We present evidence that the larva of A. ripicola is probably the taxon Mypongia brevipes Southcott, 1961, which belongs to a monotypic genus with unique morphology that is placed in a different subfamily to Abrolophus. The larval and post-larval stages we examined share a similar morphology, most notably a reduction of the prodorsal shield and much reduced leg setation. Three M. brevipes larvae were intercepted on kiwifruit imported from New Zealand, and with an additional larval specimen from South Australia, these four specimens represent the first collections of this taxon since its description. Further circumstantial evidence supporting the conspecificity of the two taxa includes a female specimen of A. ripicola collected from Myponga, the type locality of M. brevipes, and larval stages of an undescribed Mypongia collected together with the post-larval stages of an undescribed Abrolophus, from the same locality in South Africa. Keys are provided for the post-larval stages of Abrolophus species in Australia (6 spp.), Papua New Guinea (Abrolophus novaeguinensis (Gunther, 1941)) and New Zealand (Abrolophus zelandicus Luxton, 1989).
New taxonomic and faunistic data on Liocranidae (Arachnida: Araneae) of West Palaearctic), with nine new species of Mesiotelus Simon, 1897
Authors: ZAMANI ALIREZA , FOMICHEV ALEXANDER A. , NAUMOVA MARIA , KAYA RAHŞEN S. , MARUSIK YURI M.
Published: October 2024

New taxonomic data and distribution records on liocranid spiders in the West Palaearctic are provided. Nine species of Mesiotelus Simon, 1897 are described as new to science: M. alanyensis Zamani, Fomichev, Kaya & Marusik, sp. nov. (female; Türkiye), M. bosmansi Zamani, Fomichev & Marusik, sp. nov. (female; Türkiye), M. confusus Zamani, Fomichev, Naumova & Marusik, sp. nov. (male, female; Bulgaria, Greece, Türkiye), M. damavandicus Zamani, Fomichev & Marusik, sp. nov. (female; Iran), M. kravetsi Fomichev, Zamani & Marusik, sp. nov. (male; Russia: Dagestan), M. mediterraneus Zamani, Fomichev & Marusik, sp. nov. (female; Türkiye), M. sistanus Zamani, Fomichev & Marusik, sp. nov. (female; Iran), M. tadzhikus Zamani, Fomichev & Marusik, sp. nov. (female; Tajikistan), and M. turanicus Zamani, Fomichev & Marusik, sp. nov. (female; Tajikistan). Due to the misidentification of the first specimen described as the male of M. scopensis Drensky, 1935, all records of this species from Bulgaria, Greece, and Türkiye in fact belong to a different species, which is described here as M. confusus sp. nov. Considering the revised definition of M. scopensis, M. deltshevi Naumova, 2020 syn. n. and M. caucasicus Zamani & Marusik, 2021 syn. n. are proposed as its junior synonyms, and to ensure nomenclatural stability, a neotype is designated for it. The previously unknown females of Agroeca angirasu Zamani & Marusik, 2021 and M. patricki Zamani & Marusik, 2021 are described. The nomen Mesiotelus mersinensis Demircan Aksan, 2023 is here declared to be unavailable. The following species are newly recorded from the listed countries: A. angirasu from Azerbaijan, M. scopensis from Azerbaijan and Georgia, and M. cyprius Kulczyński, 1908 from Türkiye. Three of the previous Iranian records of M. scopensis Drensky, 1935 and the Iranian and Turkmen records of M. kulczynskii Charitonov, 1946 are found to be based on misidentifications. Additionally, the vulva of Sestakovaia annulipes (Kulczyński, 1897) is illustrated for the first time.