bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of large polyps in a colorectal cancer screening program with fecal immunochemical test: a community- and population-based observational study
Authors: Denis Bernard , Gendre Isabelle , Perrin Philippe , Tuzin Nicolas , Pioche Mathieu
Published: November 2021

Background and study aims The aim of this study was to analyze presentation, management, and outcomes of large polyps (LPs; ≥ 20 mm) detected in a colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program using a quantitative fecal immunochemical test (FIT).

Patients and methods This was a retrospective community- and population-based observational study of all LPs detected in patients aged 50 to 74 years between 2015 and 2019 during FIT-positive colonoscopies within the screening program organized in Alsace (France).

Results Among 13,633 FIT-positive colonoscopies, 1256 LPs (8.5 % malignant and 51.8 % nonpedunculated) were detected by 102 community gastroenterologists in 1164 patients (one in 12 colonoscopies). The sensitivity of optical diagnosis of malignancy was 54 % for nonpedunculated and 27 % for pedunculated T1 CRCs. The endoscopic resection rate was 82.7 % (95 % confidence interval [CI] 80.3–84.9) for benign LPs (70.2 % [95 % CI 66.4–74.1]) nonpedunculated, 95.2 % [95 % CI 93.4–97.1] pedunculated), varying from 0 to 100 % depending on the endoscopist. It was correlated with cecal intubation (Pearson r = 0.49, P < 0.01) and adenoma detection rates (r = 0.25, P = 0.01). Most endoscopists did not refer patients to more experienced endoscopists, and as a result, 60 % to 90 % of 183 surgeries for benign LPs were unwarranted. Endoscopic resection was curative for 4.3 % (95 % CI 0.9–12.0) of nonpedunculated and 37.8 % (95 % CI 22.5–55.2) of pedunculated T1 CRCs. Overall, 22 endoscopic submucosal dissections had to be performed to avoid one surgery.

Conclusions Compared with current recommendations, there is tremendous room for improvement in community endoscopy practices in the diagnosis and management of LPs. Detection and polypectomy competencies are correlated and highly variable among endoscopists. Endoscopic resection is curative for 83 % of benign LPs and 16 % of T1 CRCs.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection: How to be more efficient?
Authors: Lambin Thomas , Rivory Jérôme , Wallenhorst Timothée , Legros Romain , Monzy Frédéric , Jacques Jérémie , Pioche Mathieu
Published: November 2021

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) allows an “en bloc” resection with safety margins (R0 resection) regardless of the size of the lesion. However, while R0 brings a real benefit for the patient, it is not considered sufficient by many experts to justify the technical difficulties and the longer procedure time compared to piecemeal mucosectomy. The aims of this review are to provide several technical and strategical tips to help you save time and become comfortable during ESD procedures. ESD is divided into several intertwined phases: injection, incision, access to the submucosae, and submucosal dissection itself. During injection there are some mistakes that should not be made: a superficial injection, or on the contrary, a too deep injection. A good needle and good injection technique are mandatory. Some techniques, such as repeated injection or prolonged lifting solution, can help maintain the lift. After this step, mucosal incision can be made, taking care to have a good margin to allow an R0 resection. Starting the mucosal incision from a small point allows calibration of the depth of the incision and then obtaining a nice incision. Trimming is also very important to widen submucosal access. Then comes the submucosal dissection itself. Strategies such as the tunnel strategy or the pocket creation method can help to facilitate dissection, but more importantly, traction systems have become unavoidable, especially in the stomach and colon. Most common complications are bleeding and perforation, and they usually can be managed endoscopically.
Patient characteristics and procedural outcomes of moderate sedation for endoscopic procedures in patients with obesity: A retrospective, propensity score-matched study
Authors: Garg Shashank , Syed Shorabuddin , Perisetti Abhilash , Inamdar Sumant , Vargo John
Published: November 2021

Background Endoscopic procedures are performed commonly with moderate sedation. Obesity can pose a challenge in its safe administration. This study was aimed at assessing outcomes of endoscopy procedures performed with moderate sedation in obese patients.

Patients and methods This was a retrospective study of patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and/or colonoscopy with moderate sedation from July 17, 2017 to December 31, 2019. Demographics, comorbidities, outpatient medications and procedure-related outcomes (procedure time, recovery time, cardiopulmonary adverse events, 7-day post-procedure hospitalization, cecal intubation time, withdrawal time, tolerance of moderate sedation and sedation medications administered) were compared for patient with and without obesity after propensity score matching. Standard statistical methods were used for analysis.

Results A total of 7601 procedures were performed with moderate sedation for 5746 patients. Propensity score matching identified 1360 and 1740 pairs of EGDs and colonoscopies with moderate sedation for patients with and without obesity. Recovery time was found to be shorter for obese patients undergoing EGD (OR: 0.989, 95 % CI: 0.981–.998; P = 0.01). Obese patients did not differ from non-obese patients in any other procedure-related outcomes for EGDs or colonoscopies.

Conclusions Outcomes for endoscopy procedures performed with moderate sedation were noted to be similar between obese and non-obese patients. These findings suggest that moderate sedation can be used safely for endoscopic procedures in patients with obesity.
Severe acute ischemic colitis: What is the place of endoscopy in the management strategy?
Authors: Lorenzo Diane , Barthet Marc , Serrero Mélanie , Beyer Laura , Berdah Stéphane , Birnbaum David , Vitton Véronique , Gonzalez Jean Michel
Published: November 2021

Background and study aims Ischemic colitis (IC) is potentially lethal. Clinical and biology information and results of computed tomography (CT) scan and/or colonoscopy are used to assess its severity. However, decision-making about therapy remains a challenge.

Patients and methods This was a retrospective, single-center study between 2006 and 2015. Patients with severe IC who underwent endoscopic evaluation were included. The aims were to determine outcomes depending on endoscopic findings and assess the role of endoscopy in the management.

Results A total of 71 patients were included (men = 48 (68%), mean age = 71 ± 13 years). There was hemodynamic instability in 29 patients (41 %) and severity signs on CT scan in 18 (38 %). Twenty-nine patients (41 %) underwent surgery and 24 (34 %) died. The endoscopic grades were: 15 grade 1 (21 %), 32 grade 2 (45 %), and 24 grade 3 (34%). Regarding patients with grade 3 IC, 55 % had hemodynamic instability, 58 % had severity signs on CT scan, 68 % underwent surgery, and 55 % died. The decision to perform surgery was based on hemodynamic status in 62 % of cases, CT scan data in 14 %, endoscopic findings in 10 %, and other in 14 %. Colectomy was more frequent in patients with grade 3 IC (P < 0.05). A mismatch between mucosal aspect (necrosis) and serous (normal) was observed in 13 patients (46 %). Risk factors for colectomy in univariate analysis were aortic aneurysm surgery, hemodynamic instability, no colic enhancement on CT scan, and endoscopic grade 3. Risk factors for mortality in multivariate analysis were hemodynamic instability, colectomy, and Charlson score > 5 (P < 0.05).

Conclusions This study suggests a low impact of endoscopy on surgical decision making. Hemodynamic instability was the first indication for colectomy. A discrepancy between endoscopic mucosal (necrosis) and surgical serous (normal) aspects was frequently noted.
Cricopharyngeal peroral endoscopic myotomy improves oropharyngeal dysphagia in patients with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Wu Peter I. , Szczesniak Michal M. , Omari Taher , Lam Thomas Y. , Wong Marc , Maclean Julia , Ma Karen K. , Chan Anne Y. , Mok Vincent , Cook Ian J. , Cock Charles , Sung Joseph , Wu Justin , Chiu Philip W.
Published: November 2021

Background and study aims Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD) is prevalent in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Upper esophageal sphincter (UES) dysfunction is an important pathophysiological factor for OPD in PD. The cricopharyngeus (CP) is the main component of UES. We assessed the preliminary efficacy of cricopharyngeal peroral endoscopic myotomy (C-POEM) as a treatment for dysphagia due to UES dysfunction in PD.

Patients and methods Consecutive dysphagic PD patients with UES dysfunction underwent C-POEM. Swallow metrics derived using high-resolution pharyngeal impedance manometry (HRPIM) including raised UES integrated relaxation pressure (IRP), raised hypopharyngeal intrabolus pressure (IBP), reduced UES opening caliber and relaxation time defined UES dysfunction. Sydney Swallow Questionnaire (SSQ) and Swallowing Quality of Life Questionnaire (SWAL-QOL) at before and 1 month after C-POEM measured symptomatic improvement in swallow function. HRPIM was repeated at 1-month follow-up.

Results C-POEM was performed without complications in all (n = 8) patients. At 1 month, there was an improvement in both the mean SSQ (from 621.5 to 341.8, mean difference –277.3, 95 %CI [–497.8, –56.7], P = 0.02) and SWAL-QOL (from 54.9 to 68.3, mean difference 9.1, 95 %CI [0.7, 17.5], P = 0.037) scores. Repeat HRPIM confirmed a decrease in both the mean UES IRP (13.7 mm Hg to 3.6 mm Hg, mean difference –10.1 mm Hg, 95 %CI [–16.3, –3.9], P = 0.007) and the mean hypopharyngeal IBP (23.5 mm Hg to 10.4 mm Hg, mean difference –11.3 mm Hg, 95 %CI [–17.2, –5.4], P = 0.003).

Conclusions In dysphagic PD patients with UES dysfunction, C-POEM is feasible and enhances UES relaxation and reduces sphincteric resistance to flow during the swallow, thereby improving dysphagia symptoms.
Endoscopic resection outcomes and predictors of failed en bloc endoscopic mucosal resection of colorectal polyps ≤ 20 mm among advanced endoscopy trainees
Authors: King William W. , Draganov Peter V. , Wang Andrew Y. , Uppal Dushant , Rumman Amir , Kumta Nikhil A. , DiMaio Christopher J. , Trindade Arvind J. , Sejpal Divyesh V. , D’Souza Lionel S. , Bucobo Juan C. , Gomez Victoria , Wallace Michael B. , Pohl Heiko , Yang Dennis
Published: November 2021

Background and study aims En bloc endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is preferred over piecemeal resection for polyps ≤ 20 mm. Data on colorectal EMR training are limited. We aimed to evaluate the en bloc EMR rate of polyps ≤ 20 mm among advanced endoscopy trainees and to identify predictors of failed en bloc EMR.

Methods This was a multicenter prospective study evaluating trainee performance in EMR during advanced endoscopy fellowship. A logistic regression model was used to identify the number of procedures and lesion cut-off size associated with an en bloc EMR rate of ≥ 80 %. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify predictors of failed en bloc EMR.

Results Six trainees from six centers performed 189 colorectal EMRs, of which 104 (55 %) were for polyps ≤ 20 mm. Of these, 57.7 % (60/104) were resected en bloc. Trainees with ≥ 30 EMRs (OR 6.80; 95 % CI: 2.80–16.50; P = 0.00001) and lesions ≤ 17 mm (OR 4.56;95 CI:1.23–16.88; P = 0.02) were more likely to be associated with an en bloc EMR rate of ≥ 80 %. Independent predictors of failed en bloc EMR on multivariate analysis included: larger polyp size (OR:6.83;95 % CI:2.55–18.4; P = 0.0001), right colon location (OR:7.15; 95 % CI:1.31–38.9; P = 0.02), increased procedural difficulty (OR 2.99; 95 % CI:1.13–7.91; P = 0.03), and having performed < 30 EMRs (OR: 4.87; 95 %CI: 1.05–22.61; P = 0.04).

Conclusions In this pilot study, we demonstrated that a relatively low proportion of trainees achieved en bloc EMR for polyps ≤ 20 mm and identified procedure volume and lesion size thresholds for successful en bloc EMR and independent predictors for failed en bloc resection. These preliminary results support the need for future efforts to define EMR procedure competence thresholds during training.
Bedeutung der Herzangst für den psychologischen
Betreuungsbedarf und die subjektive Erwerbsprognose – Hinweise aus der
stationären kardiologischen Rehabilitation
Authors: Eilerts Anna-Lisa , Schröer Sarah , Wissen Sarah , Mayer-Berger Wolfgang , Pieper Claudia
Published: November 2021

Hintergrund In der stationären kardiologischen Rehabilitation
werden Patienten idealerweise nach psychosozialen Risikofaktoren gescreent und
psychologisch betreut. Herzbezogene Ängste bei kardiologischen
Erkrankungen können die Lebensqualität erheblich
beeinträchtigen und sowohl die Prognose des Krankheitsverlaufs als auch
die soziale und berufliche Teilhabe beeinflussen. Aufgrund der Diskrepanz
zwischen der, in der Literatur berichteten, Prävalenz der Herzangst und
dem, durch die Patienten in der Klinik Roderbirken geäußerten
Bedarf an psychologischer Betreuung, vermuteten die Autoren, dass ein Teil der
Patienten diesen Bedarf nicht selbständig äußert. Ziel
der Studie war es, diese Patienten durch ein einfaches Screening-Instrument zu
identifizieren, um ihnen eine adäquate psychologische Betreuung
anzubieten und dadurch die Rehabilitationsziele, darunter den Erhalt der
Erwerbsfähigkeit, zu sichern.

Methode Die vorliegenden Daten wurden in einer monozentrischen
Querschnittsstudie in der Rehabilitationsklinik Roderbirken, Leichlingen, NRW,
erhoben. Die Patienten wurden einmalig mit einem standardisierten Fragebogen,
bestehend aus dem Herzangstfragebogen, der Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale
und der Skala I des Screening-Instruments Beruf und Arbeit in der Rehabilitation
befragt. Soziodemographische und klinische Daten wurden aus dem Kliniksystem
ergänzt. Die Auswertung der Daten erfolgte mithilfe
deskriptiv-statistischer und regressionsanalytischer Verfahren. Ein Ethikvotum
liegt vor.

Ergebnisse Nach Bereinigung des Datensatzes konnten 507 Patienten in die
Analyse eingeschlossen werden (82,6% Männer, mittleres Alter
gesamt 54,4±7,1 Jahre). Von diesen meldeten 40,0% einen Bedarf
an psychologischer Betreuung an. Bei 15,7% aller Patienten lag eine
Herzangst nach dem Herzangstfragebogen vor, von denen wiederum 59,0%
einen Bedarf an psychologischer Betreuung anmeldeten. Es zeigte sich, dass
insbesondere Patienten mit diagnostizierten psychischen Erkrankungen
Betreuungsbedarf äußerten (57,6 vs. 0,7%;
p<0,05). Die subjektive Erwerbsprognose war mit Herzangst und mit der
Depressionssymptomatik nach Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale assoziiert (je
p<0,001), des Weiteren mit der Ausbildung und dem beruflichen
Status.

Diskussion Die Ergebnisse der Selbstbeurteilungsfragebögen und die
Betrachtung sozioökonomischer sowie klinischer Patientencharakteristika
geben Hinweise auf ein Bedarfsprofil hinsichtlich des psychologischen
Betreuungsbedarfs und eine negative subjektive Erwerbsprognose.

Schlussfolgerung Ein Screening mit der Hospital Anxiety and Depression
Scale ist geeignet, um die Identifizierung nicht geäußerter
psychologischer Betreuungsbedarfe und damit die Zielerreichung der beruflichen
Reintegration in der kardiologischen Rehabilitation zu unterstützen.
Ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in infective liver lesions
Authors: Chaubal Nitin , Thomsen Thomas , Kabaalioglu Adnan , Srivastava David , Rösch Stephanie Simone , Dietrich Christoph F.
Published: November 2021

Infektiöse fokale Leberläsionen (FLL) treten in der klinischen Praxis häufig auf, wobei bakterielle Leberabszesse die Hälfte ausmachen. Eine genaue Diagnose der FLL ist für die Auswahl der am besten geeigneten Therapie und zur Vorbeugung von Komplikationen unerlässlich. Ziel der aktuellen Arbeit ist es, den Nutzen von Ultraschall und kontrastmittelverstärktem Ultraschall (CEUS) zur Erkennung und Charakterisierung infektiöser Leberläsionen zu beschreiben.
Catalytic Atroposelective Dynamic Kinetic Resolution of Substituted Indoles
Authors: Kwon Yongseok , Kim Ahreum
Published: November 2021

Advances in asymmetric catalysis have led to enormous progress in the atroposelective synthesis of axially chiral biaryls. Because of the biological importance of indoles, stereogenic axes in aryl-substituted indoles have attracted considerable research attention in recent years. Here we present a summary of recent advances in the atroposelective synthesis of aryl-substituted indoles by dynamic kinetic resolution. Although several researchers have developed enantioselective syntheses of 3-arylindoles, N-arylindoles have been much less studied. Accordingly, we have developed a Pictet–Spengler reaction with catalytic and enantioselective control of the axial chirality around the C–N bond of the product. A chiral phosphoric acid induces the cyclization smoothly and with high yields and excellent enantioselectivities. To achieve this high selectivity, an NH group at the ortho-position of the N-substituted aromatic ring that interacts favorably with the catalyst is required. Furthermore, when substituted aldehydes are used instead of paraformaldehyde, both point and axial chiralities can be controlled during the cyclization.

1 Introduction

2 Atropisomerism in Indoles

3 Atroposelective Dynamic Kinetic Resolution of 3-Arylindoles

4 Atroposelective Dynamic Kinetic Resolution of N-Arylindoles

5 Conclusions
Nickel-Catalyzed Asymmetric Synthesis of P-Stereogenic Vinyl Phosphines
Authors: Zhang Qing-Wei , Liu Xu-Teng , Wu Yue
Published: November 2021

Addition reaction to alkynes is an efficient strategy for constructing valuable alkenyl compounds. However, the elusive regioselectivity has been a persistent challenge. In the context of hydrophosphination reaction which could afford valuable P-stereogenic phosphines, the control of enantioselectivity as well as regioselectivity were especially tricky. Here, we highlighted our recent work on the nickel-catalyzed regio- and enantioselective hydrophosphination of unactivated alkynes with in situ generated secondary phosphines.

1 Introduction

2 Hydrophosphination of Alkynes

3 Derivatization Reactions

4 Mechanism Research

5 Summary and Outlook
A Stakeholders’ Perspective of Reputation Dimensions for Service Organisations: Evidence from a Developing Country Context
Authors: Ajayi Oyindamola Abiola , Mmutle Tsietsi , Chaka Mpho
Published: November 2021

Corporate reputation is widely acknowledged to contribute to business success by academics and business executives. Despite the importance of corporate reputation in all markets, we lack sufficient research into what reputation might mean in the context of companies in developing countries. This paper addresses this lingering gap in the literature by investigating the dimensions that make service organisations reputable from the perspective of four primary stakeholder groups of two large service organisations. The paper also sought to determine whether the same reputation dimensions apply to service organisations in general, or whether they differ according to the type of service organisation. Empirical data were sourced using the mixed-method approach, and analysis revealed 16 items across 6 dimensions that constitute the reputation of service organisations. The study also found that there is not much difference between the reputation dimensions of two organisations used in this study. However, it reveals major differences between the dimensions derived from the developing country context, and those derived from developed contexts. This illustrates that context-specific reputation measures can emerge which are important in understanding how reputation is created and can be managed. Consequently, it underscores the need for more scientific researches into reputation dimensions in different contexts (countries and organisations).
Time-synchronized laser-induced fluorescence in the near-field of a 600 Watt Hall thruster
Authors: Young C. V. , Lucca Fabris A. , MacDonald-Tenenbaum N. A. , Hargus W. A. , Cappelli M. A.
Published: November 2021

We report on the results of an experimental campaign to measure time-varying velocity distributions in the near-field of a low power Hall thruster. We employ a sample-hold technique, enhanced by parallelizing the measurement hardware into several signal processing channels that vastly increases the data acquisition rate. The measurements are applied to study flow field dynamics in a commercial BHT-600 Hall thruster undergoing unforced breathing mode oscillations in the 44–49 kHz range. A very detailed experimental picture of the near-field emerges from these studies. The results indicate that velocity fluctuations lessen further downstream of the exit plane. Along the thruster axis where there is a general appearance of a central jet, there is evidence of a low velocity ion population in between the periodic bursts of high velocity ions, indicative of local ionization of neutrals outside of the thruster. One possible source of this residual ionization may be background chamber gas, which is not unexpected with the limited pumping capacity of ground test facilities.
GPU acceleration of rank-reduced coupled-cluster singles and doubles
Authors: Hohenstein Edward G. , Martínez Todd J.
Published: November 2021

We have developed a graphical processing unit (GPU) accelerated implementation of our recently introduced rank-reduced coupled-cluster singles and doubles (RR-CCSD) method. RR-CCSD introduces a low-rank approximation of the doubles amplitudes. This is combined with a low-rank approximation of the electron repulsion integrals via Cholesky decomposition. The result of these two low-rank approximations is the replacement of the usual fourth-order CCSD tensors with products of second- and third-order tensors. In our implementation, only a single fourth-order tensor must be constructed as an intermediate during the solution of the amplitude equations. Owing in large part to the compression of the doubles amplitudes, the GPU-accelerated implementation shows excellent parallel efficiency (95% on eight GPUs). Our implementation can solve the RR-CCSD equations for up to 400 electrons and 1550 basis functions—roughly 50% larger than the largest canonical CCSD computations that have been performed on any hardware. In addition to increased scalability, the RR-CCSD computations are faster than the corresponding CCSD computations for all but the smallest molecules. We test the accuracy of RR-CCSD for a variety of chemical systems including up to 1000 basis functions and determine that accuracy to better than 0.1% error in the correlation energy can be achieved with roughly 95% compression of the ov space for the largest systems considered. We also demonstrate that conformational energies can be predicted to be within 0.1 kcal mol−1 with efficient compression applied to the wavefunction. Finally, we find that low-rank approximations of the CCSD doubles amplitudes used in the similarity transformation of the Hamiltonian prior to a conventional equation-of-motion CCSD computation will not introduce significant errors (on the order of a few hundredths of an electronvolt) into the resulting excitation energies.
Effect of confinement on the dynamics of 1-propanol and other monohydroxy alcohols
Authors: Ananiadou Antonela , Papamokos George , Steinhart Martin , Floudas George
Published: November 2021

We report the effect of confinement on the dynamics of three monohydroxy alcohols (1-propanol, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, and 4-methyl-3-heptanol) differing in their chemical structure and, consequently, in the dielectric strength of the “Debye” process. Density functional theory calculations in bulk 1-propanol identified both linear and ring-like associations composed of up to five repeat units. The simulation results revealed that the ring structures, with a low dipole moment (∼2 D), are energetically preferred over the linear assemblies with a dipole moment of 2.18 D per repeat unit. Under confinement in nanoporous alumina (in templates with pore diameters ranging from 400 to 20 nm), all dynamic processes were found to speed up irrespective of the molecular architecture. The characteristic freezing temperatures of the α and the Debye-like processes followed the pore size dependence: Ta,D=Ta,Dbulk−A/d1/2, where d is the pore diameter. The characteristic “freezing” temperatures for the Debye-like (the slow process for confined 1-propanol is non-Debye) and the α-processes decrease, respectively, by 6.5 and 13 K in confined 1-propanol, by 9.5 and 19 K in confined 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, and by 9 and 23 K in confined 4-methyl-3-heptanol within the same 25 nm pores. In 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, confinement reduced the number of linearly associated repeats from approximately heptamers in the bulk to dimers within 25 pores. In addition, the slower process in bulk 2-ethyl-1-hexanol and 4-methyl-3-heptanol, where the signal is dominated by ring-like supramolecular assemblies, is clearly non-Debye. The results suggest that the effect of confinement is dominant in the latter assemblies.
RHEED analysis of the oxidized M′2M″xXyene sheets by ablated plasma thrust method in pulsed laser deposition chamber
Authors: Parajuli D. , Devendra K. C. , Reda T. G. , Sravani G. M. , Murali N. , Samatha K.
Published: November 2021

M′2M″xXyene (M′ and M″ are the early transitional metals and X is carbide with x = 1 for y = 2 and x = 2 for y = 3) are the ordered double transitional metal layered carbides derived from their parent MAX phases M′2M″xAlXyene by a wet chemical etching method. Their oxides are predicted to have topological properties for which they should be annealed at around 800 °C in an oxygen background. This paper includes the new ablated plasma thrust method for the ionization and adsorption of oxygen on the M′2M″xXyene substrate in the pulsed laser deposition chamber. We have found that the background pressure has a negative effect and the substrate temperature has a positive effect on plume expansion. The density profile of the background gas is highly affected by deposition temperature. Similarly, it is found that the density of plasma generated by longer wavelengths is not affected significantly due to the inverse bremsstrahlung process. A shorter wavelength produces the bremsstrahlung process as photoionization takes place. At a certain time (200 ns), the pressure of background gas and plasma pressure are equal (snow-plogh effect) so that all the wavelengths then produce electrons (highest for shorter wavelengths), thereby increasing its density. The energy necessary for the oxidation of the substrate is provided by the energy of the ablated species. The adsorption is assured by the reflective high electron energy diffraction technique, and it is found that the ambient gas pressures p = 0.1 mbar and 0.2 mbar are appropriate for the adsorption process. The obtained M′2M″xXyene oxides can be used for their topological test.
Review of Scientific Instruments New Products
Authors: Mandelis Andreas
Published: November 2021

In order to supplement manufacturers’ information, this department will welcome the submission by our readers of brief communications reporting measurements on the physical properties of materials that supersede earlier data or suggest new research applications.
Physics for the Whole Body in Playgrounds and Amusement Parks
Authors: Mårtensson-Pendrill Ann-Marie
Published: November 2021

There are many laws of physics involved in the design and operation of roller coasters, carousels, and other amusement rides. Physics for the Whole Body in Playgrounds and Amusement Parks teaches these concepts in an exciting and approachable way by linking them with students’ personal experiences of rides in amusement parks.

This unique book features:Immersive elements to learn scientific principles using students’ first-hand experiences of how forces act in different types of motionChallenging questions for discussion, simple experiments, and exciting classroom demonstrationsNumerous illustrations and video materials that bring the lessons to life and teach the concepts of force and motion in a more stimulating way

This book is a must for teachers of physics at the advanced high school level and for undergraduate students needing a refresher course in Newton's laws. Roller coaster enthusiasts will also find the book a stimulating read.
Circular Motion in a Horizontal Plane
Authors: Mårtensson-Pendrill Ann-Marie
Published: November 2021

Anyone teaching physics is aware of the conceptual challenges encountered by students in the study of circular motion. Students often forget that even uniform circular motion involves acceleration, as the direction of motion changes continuously. Force equilibrium does not hold for accelerated bodies. No magic forces arise because you move around in a circle—you move in a circle because interactions with the surroundings prevent you from moving straight ahead. It is important to distinguish between forces acting on your body and forces you exert on the surroundings. This chapter deals with several examples of uniform circular motion in a horizontal plane and how they can be experienced, observed, simulated, and measured with simple equipment or electronic sensors.
Pendulum Rides
Authors: Mårtensson-Pendrill Ann-Marie
Published: November 2021

Both playground swings and large pendulum rides in amusement parks let your body experience the changing forces required for the pendulum motion along a circular arc. The forces can be illustrated with simple equipment like a short slinky or a mug of water and also measured with smartphones or other sensors taken along for the ride. This chapter shows how mathematics can be applied to the forces, as well as to the relations between pendulum length and period, which can all be compared to observations and measurements. Authentic accelerometer and angular velocity data from playground swings and several types of amusement park rides are discussed, including rides where the Coriolis effect is significant.
Improved RAD51 binders through motif shuffling based on the modularity of BRC repeats
Authors: Lindenburg Laurens H. , Pantelejevs Teodors , Gielen Fabrice , Zuazua-Villar Pedro , Butz Maren , Rees Eric , Kaminski Clemens F. , Downs Jessica A. , Hyvönen Marko , Hollfelder Florian
Published: November 2021

Significance

Despite advances in directed evolution and computational design, engineering of functional proteins remains challenging. Here we demonstrate that rearrangement of modular repeats from BRCA2 can yield chimeras with improved interaction properties, while deconstructing the relative energetic contributions of different modules across a large interaction interface and resolving the effects of shape complementary or physicochemical properties by empirical observation. This de- and reconstruction of binding interfaces supports a mix-and-match model for proteins in which repeat units can be manipulated and used to construct functional proteins that interfere with dsDNA repair. Our approach may aid in creating biochemical and therapeutic tools from natural modules, with minimal screening effort.
iNKT subsets differ in their developmental and functional requirements on Foxo1
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Zhang Yuwei , Pan Jun , Wu Qielan , Huang Yuanyuan , Bai Shiyu , Tian Chenxi , Zhu Mingzhao , Lian Zhexiong , Li Fengyin , Tian Zhigang , Bai Li
Published: November 2021

Significance

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells participate in the first line of body defense and can be classified into three functional subsets. Differences in their developmental and functional control further contribute to their functional complexity. Here, we show that Foxo1 promotes survival of iNKT1 and iNKT2 cells at early stages of differentiation but is dispensable for iNKT17 cell development due to its distinct contributions to IL7R expression in these subsets. Additionally, Foxo1 is required for mTORC1 activation and function of iNKT1 and iNKT2 cells through inhibiting TSC1–TSC2 interaction but not for iNKT17 cells. Our study proposes that Foxo1 distinctly controls development and functions of different iNKT subsets, and targeting Foxo1 would lead to a functional shift of iNKT cells.
Biological signal processing filters via engineering allosteric transcription factors
Authors: Groseclose Thomas M. , Hersey Ashley N. , Huang Brian D. , Realff Matthew J. , Wilson Corey J.
Published: November 2021

Significance

As the size and complexity of genetic circuits increases, scientists and engineers need to find solutions to rapidly optimize flux and reduce the metabolic burden imposed on chassis cells. In this study, we report synthetic biology tools that imbue chassis cells with advanced signal processing functions akin to electrical devices commonly used in wireless transmitters and receivers (i.e., biological BANDPASS and BANDSTOP devices) that can simultaneously reduce metabolic burden. Moreover, this study presents a set of granular and more complete design rules for engineering allosteric transcription factors in the broader LacI/GalR topology. In addition, this study has improved our fundamental understanding of the plasticity and continuum of allosteric communication from the binding pocket to the protein–DNA interaction.
Вторая мировая война и депортация в культурной памяти карачаевцев и балкарцев (Часть 1)
Authors: РAXAEB Дж. Я.
Published: November 2021

В статье о депортации балкарцев и карачаевцев, дается совершенно новый взгляд на данную проблему. О психологической драме, где депортированные народы жили в стране, где большинство населения считали долгое время их врагами. Автор рассказывает о тех сложных отношениях с местным населением в Казахстане, и о том, как пришлось заново устраивать свое место после возвращения на Родину после долгих лет депортации. Автор рассматривает трагические страницы истории через призму памяти этой трагедии. Интерес к данной работе вызывает сам факт сужения подход проблемы до культурной памяти. Это позволяет совершенно по иному взглянуть на проблему депортации народов. Культурная память депортированных народов борется с тем, что воспитала за эти годы после депортации Советская власть и позже российская. Работа наглядно демонстрирует, что до сих пор спустя десятки лет, не решены многочисленные проблемы депортированных народов в России.
Let’s flow! Circular migration and transhumant mobility among the Tushetians of Georgia
Authors: Mühlfried Florian
Published: November 2021

This paper deals with the migration practices of a Georgian population called the Tushetians and their recent developments. After an outline of the Tushetians’ traditional and contemporary migration patterns, details of migration to the Russian Federation, Spain and Greece are presented, followed by some reflections on the impact of these forms of migration on gender roles in the home villages. This leads to a more general discussion of the compatibility of Tushetian migration patterns with the European Union (EU) policy of circular migration, as well as the impact of the Eurozone crisis on migrants from post-socialist countries such as Georgia.
Chronology January – September 2014
Authors: Bilderling Sophie Shihab
Published: November 2021

This chronology of events in the North and South Caucasus has been compiled based mainly on Reuters (www.reuters.com/news/world), Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (www.rferl.org), Caucasian Knot (www.eng.kavkaz-uzel.ru) and the Jamestown Foundation (www.jamestown.org).
On the molecular mechanism of excitation–transcription coupling in skeletal muscle
Authors: Casas Mariana , Jorquera Gonzalo , Morales Camilo , Jaimovich Enrique
Published: November 2021

An important question in neuromuscular biology is how skeletal muscle cells decipher the stimulation pattern coming from motoneurons to define their phenotype-activating transcriptional changes in a process named excitation–transcription coupling. We have shown in adult muscle fibers that 20 Hz electrical stimulation (ES) activates a signaling cascade that starts with Cav1.1 activation, ATP release trough pannexin-1 channel, activation of purinergic receptors, and IP3-dependent Ca2+ signals inducing transcriptional changes related to muscle plasticity from fast to slow phenotype. Extracellular addition of 30 µM ATP mimics transcriptional changes induced by ES at 20 Hz. ATP release occurs in two peaks, the first around 15 s after ES and a second around 300 s after ES. In the present work, we used apyrase to hydrolyze ATP 60 s after ES, maintaining the first peak and eliminating the second peak. In this condition, transcriptional changes were abolished, indicating that the second peak is the one crucial to activate transcription. Additionally, we observed a small depolarization of fibers after ES. The addition of 30 to 100 µM external ATP also induced depolarization of muscle fibers. This depolarization was unable to activate contraction but was able to induce transcriptional changes induced by 20 Hz ES. These changes were completely inhibited by the IP3R blocker xestospongin B, suggesting that IP3-dependent events are triggered at these membrane depolarization values. Moreover, transcriptional changes induced by addition of 30 µM extracellular ATP was blocked by incubation of fibers with 25 µM Nifedipine. These results suggest that the second ATP peak observed after 20 Hz ES is responsible for transcriptional activation by inducing small depolarizations of fiber membranes that are also sensed by Cav1.1. Finally, we show evidence that downstream of purinergic receptors, PKC is activated, likely causing phosphorylation of ClC-1 chloride channels, possibly responsible for depolarization after 20 Hz.
A flexible GAS belt responds to pore mutations changing the ion selectivity of proton-gated channels
Authors: Chen Zhuyuan , Lin Sheng , Xie Tianze , Lin Jin-Ming , Canessa Cecilia M.
Published: November 2021

Proton-gated ion channels conduct mainly Na+ to induce postsynaptic membrane depolarization. Finding the determinants of ion selectivity requires knowledge of the pore structure in the open conformation, but such information is not yet available. Here, the open conformation of the hASIC1a channel was computationally modeled, and functional effects of pore mutations were analyzed in light of the predicted structures. The open pore structure shows two constrictions of similar diameter formed by the backbone of the GAS belt and, right beneath it, by the side chains of H28 from the reentrant loop. Models of nonselective mutant channels, but not those that maintain ion selectivity, predict enlargement of the GAS belt, suggesting that this motif is quite flexible and that the loss of stabilizing interactions in the central pore leads to changes in size/shape of the belt. Our results are consistent with the “close-fit” mechanism governing selectivity of hASIC1a, wherein the backbone of the GAS substitutes at least part of the hydration shell of a permeant ion to enable crossing the pore constriction.
Essential role of Orai1 and SARAF in vascular remodeling
Authors: Martín-Bórnez Marta , Ávila-Medina Javier , Calderón-Sánchez Eva , Rosado Juan Antonio , Ordoñez-Fernández Antonio , Smani Tarik
Published: November 2021

Orai1 and STIM1, molecular components of store-operated calcium entry (SOCE), have been associated with vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation in vascular remodeling. Nevertheless, the role of SARAF (SOCE-associated regulatory factor), a regulatory protein involved in STIM1 inhibition, in vascular remodeling has not been examined. The aim of this study is to examine the role of SARAF and Orai1 in VSMC proliferation and neointima formation after balloon injury of rat carotid arteries. Experiments were conducted in an animal model of rat carotid angioplasty to characterize neointima formation. VSMC isolated from rat coronary arteries was also used to examine cell proliferation. The formation of neointima after balloon injury of rat carotid arteries was confirmed by hematoxylin and eosin staining of tissue sections up to 3 wk after surgery. Injured arteries showed significantly higher expression of SARAF, STIM1, and Orai1 compared with control tissues, corroborating the presence of these regulatory proteins in the neointima layer. Proximity ligation and coimmunoprecipitation assays revealed that SARAF interacts with Orai1 in the neointima. Furthermore, selective silencing of SARAF and Orai1 by small interfering RNA (siRNA) inhibited IGF-1–induced VSMC proliferation. Our data suggest that SARAF interacts with Orai1 to modulate SOCE and VSMC proliferation after vascular injury.
In vivo potentiation of post-tetanic twitch across age and sex
Authors: Peyton Mina P. , Lowe Dawn A.
Published: November 2021

Twitch force potentiation of fast-twitch skeletal muscle is produced by repetitive stimulation that can be achieved from either (1) the staircase effect (continual low frequency stimulation) or (2) post-tetanic potentiation (a 1–2 s high-frequency tetanic stimulation). Previous studies examining twitch force potentiation have been conducted in vitro and shown that it is related to phosphorylation of myosin regulatory light chain (pRLC). We previously found, in vitro, reduced potentiation of twitch force and decreased pRLC in ovariectomized (Ovx, estrogen-deficient) compared with sham-operated (estrogen-replete) mice. Thus, we questioned whether this phenomenon occurred in vivo and whether age and sex would affect the potentiation of twitch force. Using an in vivo post-tetanic potentiation method (one twitch contraction followed by a tetanic contraction—100 Hz for 1,000 ms with 0.01 ms pulses, and two post-tetanic twitch contractions), we investigated twitch torque potentiation in C57BL/6 young and old, male and female mice. There were significant main effects of sex (P < 0.001) and age (P < 0.001) on body mass and significant main effects of sex (P < 0.001) on tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus muscle masses, with males and aged being relatively greater. Analysis of twitch torque using a three-way ANOVA across time, age, and sex showed a significant main effect of time (pre < post; P < 0.001), time × age (P = 0.038), and time × sex (P = 0.028), indicating potentiation occurred in young and old, males and females. Analysis of twitch torque potentiation (percent increase) using a two-way ANOVA revealed a significant main effect of age (young = 45.16 ± 2.04 versus old = 27.88 ± 9.96; P < 0.001) with no effect of sex (P = 0.215). In summary, enhanced generation of twitch force of skeletal muscle using a post-tetanic potentiation method does occur in vivo and is affected by age but not sex, as there is greater twitch torque potentiation in young than old mice.
Mutant D96V calmodulin induces unexpected remodeling of cardiac nanostructure and physiology
Authors: Struckman Heather L. , Tarasov Mikhail , Olgar Yusuf , Miller Alec , Davis Jonathan P. , Györke Sándor , Veeraraghavan Rengasayee , Radwański Przemysław B.
Published: November 2021

Calmodulin (CaM) prevents proarrhythmic late sodium current (INa) by facilitating normal inactivation of sodium channels (NaV). Since dysfunction of NaV1.6 has been implicated in late INa-mediated arrhythmias, we investigated its role in arrhythmias promoted by CaM mutant D96V. Super-resolution STED microscopy revealed enlarged NaV1.6 clusters in NaV1.6-expressing Chinese hamster ovary cells transfected with D96V-CaM relative to those transfected with WT-CaM. Therefore, we examined NaV1.6 clustering in transgenic mice with cardiac-specific expression of D96V-CaM (cD96V) with a C-terminal FLAG tag. Confocal microscopy confirmed expression of NaV1.6 and FLAG-tagged D96V-CaM in a striated pattern along with RYR2 in cD96V hearts, consistent with T-tubular localization. In both WT and cD96V hearts, STORM single molecule localization microscopy revealed that ∼50% of NaV1.6 clusters localized <100 nm from RYR2. However, NaV1.6 density within these regions was 67% greater in cD96V relative to WT. Consistent with this result, SICM-guided “smart” patch clamp recording of NaV activity from T-tubule openings revealed more frequent late-burst openings involving larger NaV clusters in cD96V myocytes relative to WT. Previous work identifies the sodium-calcium exchanger (NCX) as a key link between aberrant late NaV1.6 activity and proarrhythmic Ca2+ mishandling. Therefore, we explored the spatial organization of NaV1.6 and NCX using STORM. Consistent with their close association, 89% of NaV1.6 clusters localized <100 nm from NCX in cD96V hearts, compared with 77% in WT. Notably, density of both NaV1.6 and NCX was increased at these sites by 48% and 31%, respectively, in cD96V relative to WT. Consistent with these data, cD96V myocytes displayed larger, more frequent Ca2+ sparks relative to WT. These proarrhythmic functional effects were abrogated by cardiac-specific knockout of NaV1.6. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of proarrhythmic cardiac structural remodeling secondary to a defect in calmodulin, offering novel mechanistic insight into calmodulinopathy.
Fragmentation and roles of junctophilin1 in muscle of patients with cytosolic leak of stored calcium
Authors: Tammineni Eshwar R. , Figueroa Lourdes , Kraeva Natalia , Manno Carlo , Ibarra Carlos A. , Klip Amira , Riazi Sheila , Rios Eduardo
Published: November 2021

The mechanisms that link the primary increase in SR Ca2+ leak of MH susceptibility and related conditions to their disease phenotypes are not well understood. We found that abnormal Ca2+ homeostasis in MHS individuals induces proteolysis of junctophilin1 (JPh1), an essential structural protein of EC coupling (Perni, in 2017). Guo (in 2018) and Lahiri (in 2020) reported similar fragmentation of JPh2 in stressed hearts. Western blot of patients’ muscle with domain-specific antibodies showed a deficit of full-length JPh1 and excess of a 44-kD C-terminal fragment (JPh44) in MHS subjects. While JPh1 was located in T-SR junctions, JPh44 was found anywhere within the I band, and at high densities within nuclei—a location forbidden for JPh1. Expression and cleavage in mice of a JPh1 plasmid tagged at both ends showed that its N-terminal fragment remained in triads, and the C-terminal fragment, orthologue to JPh44, entered nuclei, which indicates that JPh44 is the C-terminal cleavage product. Endogenous calpain1 appeared in T-SR junctions, colocalized with JPh1. On muscle extracts and primary cultures, Ca2+-activated calpain1 cleaved a 44-kD JPh1 piece, consistent with the C-terminal fragment that starts at Ser241, the highest probability cleavage site found by calpain1 algorithms. Completing the identification of Ser241 as the likely start of JPh44, the tagged deletion plasmid GFP-JPh1_Δ1-240, expressed in mice, copied the location and migration of JPh44. Expression of GFP-JPh1_Δ1-240 in C2C12 myoblasts reduced by more than twofold the transcription of PI3K-Akt genes that inhibit muscle uptake and storage of glucose, including GSK3β, an inhibitor of glycogen synthase that is activated in MHS patients. In agreement with the genetic profile, GSK3β protein content decreased upon expression of GFP-JPh1_Δ1-240. In sum, the identified gene control roles of JPh44 oppose the deleterious effects of chronically elevated cytosolic [Ca2+], including late-onset hyperglycemia and type-2 diabetes (Tammineni, in 2020).