bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Task‐Designated Identities in Danish Homeless Shelters
Authors: Marvasti Amir B. , Mik‐Meyer Nanna
Published: August 2024

This paper is based on an ethnographic study of how domesticity is enacted and adapted at homeless shelters for determining which clients are “service worthy .” The study draws on nineteen placement meetings with homeless men and focuses on institutional mechanisms for encouraging homemaking skills or domesticity among clients. Adapting Robert K. Merton's typology of adaptations to social norms, as well as Jaber Gubrium's “task‐designated identity,” we showcase male clients' self‐presentation strategies for adapting to the institutional mandates of domesticity. Specifically, our qualitative analysis reveals four modes of task adaption: (1) task conformity by professing the desired norms in their service encounters, (2) task evasion to avoid conversations and related tasks, (3) task transformation by linking the task at hand with something other than originally intended, particularly by reframing biographies to meet the local goals of domesticity, and (4) task protestation, which involves questioning the rationale and necessity of assigned tasks.
One‐step non‐invasive diagnosis of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis and fibrosis in high‐risk population
Authors: Iruzubieta Paula , Mayo Rebeca , Mincholé Itziar , Martínez‐Arranz Ibon , Arias‐Loste María Teresa , Ibañez‐Samaniego Luis , Ampuero Javier , Abad Javier , Martín‐Mateos Rosa , Fernández‐Laso Ana Belén , Albillos Agustín , Bañares Rafael , Calleja José Luis , Romero‐Gómez Manuel , Aller Rocío , Crespo Javier
Published: August 2024

Background and Aim

Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM), age, and obesity are risk factors for metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). We aimed to assess the performance of non‐invasive tests (NITs) for the diagnosis of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and fibrosis in high‐risk subjects.

Methods

Multicentre cross‐sectional study that included 124 biopsy‐proven MASLD in more than 50 years‐old patients with overweight/obesity and T2DM. Vibration‐controlled transient elastography, Fibrosis‐4 index (FIB‐4), Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score (NFS), OWLiver Panel (OWLiver DM2 + Metabolomics‐Advanced Steatohepatitis Fibrosis Score ‐MASEF) and FibroScan‐AST were performed. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were calculated. NITs were assessed individually and in sequential/parallel combinations.

Results

35 (28.2%) patients had early MASH and 66 (53.2%) had MASH with significant fibrosis (at‐risk MASH). The OWLiver Panel correctly classified 86.1% as MASH, showing an accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 0.77, 0.86, 0.35, 0.85, and 0.36, respectively. Class III obesity, diabetes control, or gender did not impact on the performance of the OWLiver Panel (p > 0.1). NITs for at‐risk MASH showed an AUC > 0.70 except for NFS. MASEF showed the highest accuracy and NPV for at‐risk MASH (AUC 0.77 [0.68–0.85], NPV 72%) and advanced fibrosis (AUC 0.80 [0.71–0.88], NPV 92%). Combinations of NITs for the identification of at‐risk MASH did not provide any additional benefit over using MASEF alone.

Conclusion

One‐step screening strategy with the OWLiver Panel has high accuracy to detect MASH and at‐risk MASH in high‐risk subjects for MASLD.
Bioactive poly(amino acid)s for multi‐modal cancer therapy
Authors: Yang Guanqing , Ding Jianxun , Chen Xuesi
Published: August 2024

The interplay between the tumor cells and their microenvironments is as inseparable as the relationship between “seeds” and “soil.” The tumor microenvironments (TMEs) exacerbate malignancy by enriching malignant cell subclones, generating extracellular matrices, and recruiting immunosuppressive cells, thereby diminishing the efficacy of clinical therapies. Modulating TMEs has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance cancer therapy. However, the existing drugs used in clinical settings do not target the TMEs specifically, underscoring the urgent need for advanced strategies. Bioactive materials present unique opportunities for modulating TMEs. Poly(amino acid)s with precisely controllable structures and properties offer exceptional characteristics, such as diverse structural units, excellent biosafety, ease of modification, sensitive biological responsiveness, and unique secondary structures. These attributes hold significant potential for the modulation of TMEs and clinical applications further. Consequently, developing bioactive poly(amino acid)s capable of modulating the TMEs by elucidating structure–activity relationships and mechanisms is a promising approach for innovative clinical oncology therapy. This review summarizes the recent progress of our research team in developing bioactive poly(amino acid)s for multi‐modal tumor therapy. First, a brief overview of poly(amino acid) synthesis and their advantages as nanocarriers is provided. Subsequently, the pioneering research of our research group on synthesizing the biologically responsive, dynamically allosteric, and immunologically effective poly(amino acid)s are highlighted. These poly(amino acid)s are designed to enhance tumor therapy by modulating the intracellular, extracellular matrix, and stromal cell microenvironments. Finally, the future development of poly(amino acid)s is discussed. This review will guide and inspire the construction of bioactive poly(amino acid)s with promising clinical applications in cancer therapy.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease

Biology‐Inspired Nanomaterials > Peptide‐Based Structures
Modeling the Morphology Evolution of Recrystallized Grains of Aluminum Alloys Under Oriented Growth and Anisotropic Dispersoid Pinning
Authors: Liu Ruxue , Zhang Zhiwu , Zhou Baocheng , Zhou Guowei , Li Dayong
Published: August 2024

Static recrystallization takes place during the annealing of deformed metals, and the resulting fine or coarse, equiaxed or lath-like recrystallized grains together with various textures can have a significant effect on the material’s performance. In this work, oriented growth and anisotropic dispersoid pinning effects on boundary migration are taken into account in a cellular automaton model to simulate the morphology evolution of recrystallized grain in aluminum alloy. Diverse grain morphology can be predicted when varying the settings of annealing condition, and the underlying physical mechanism is discussed based on the simulated results.
Cyclic Bending Behaviors of Extruded AZ31 Magnesium Alloy Beams
Authors: Zhou Kecheng , Tang Ding , Li Dayong , Wang Huamiao
Published: August 2024

Bending behavior holds significant importance, as it plays an unavoidable role in a variety of forming processes. Therefore, gaining insight into the cyclic bending mechanical behavior of magnesium (Mg) alloys is crucial for designing, fabricating, and ensuring the performance of end products. This study conducts cyclic bending simulations of an extruded AZ31 Mg alloy beam using crystal-plasticity-based methods. The study encompasses the macroscopic aspects of stress distribution and strain distribution, along with a detailed discussion of microscopic factors such as the relative activities of deformation mechanisms and twin volume fraction during cyclic bending. Different from conventional alloys with high crystal symmetry, the apparent the neutral layer shifting phenomena is observed in the extruded AZ31. The simulated results reveal that this distinct behavior is ascribed to the alternating twinning and detwinning mechanisms.
A Numerical Study to Analyze the Effect of Process Parameters on Ring Rolling of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Nayak Soumyaranjan , Singh Abhishek Kumar , Gokhale Hina , Prasad M. J. N. V. , Narasimhan K.
Published: August 2024

Hot ring rolling is a production method to manufacture seamless rings. It is a complex incremental metal-forming process where reduction of cross-section leads to increase in diameter of the ring via circumferential extrusion. High degree of non-linearity and asymmetry is associated with the process. The process results in non-uniform distribution of temperature and plastic strain in the ring cross-section, and this in turn significantly affects the deformation behavior, microstructure, and mechanical properties. Form defect like fishtail defect is also a major concern and incurs loss in terms of labor and machining cost. In this study, rolling of Ti-6Al-4V rings is studied with the help of three-dimensional coupled thermo-mechanical finite element model established using ABAQUS/Explicit environment-based dynamic explicit code. The major parameters taken into consideration for the study are main roll speed (rpm), main roll feed (mm/s), and coefficient of friction. Each parameter was studied at two levels. Twenty simulations with different combinations of major parameters were developed via Central Composite Design (CCD). Coefficient of Variation (CoV) was used as a heterogeneity index to ascertain heterogeneity in equivalent plastic strain (PEEQ) and temperature distribution in the ring. Fishtail defect was quantified using fishtail coefficient as an index. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to ascertain the impact of significant factors and interactions between different parameters affecting the ring rolling process. ANOVA technique requires unrestricted range of (−∞, ∞) for analysis. Hence, logit transformation is used to transform fishtail coefficient present in the range 0–1 to an unrestricted real number range (−∞, ∞). Main roll feed rate was found to be the most significant factor affecting CoV (PEEQ), CoV (temperature) and logit transformation of fishtail coefficient and has an inverse correlation and quadratic relationship with all the responses. Other sources of variation like main roll speed (rpm) and coefficient of friction (CoF) have minimal impact. Increase in feed rate was found to reduce CoV (PEEQ), CoV (temperature), and logit transformation of fishtail coefficient.
Experimental and Numerical Simulation on Formability and Failure Behavior of Thermoplastic Carbon Fiber/AL Composite Laminates
Authors: Sun Chen , Dai Minghua , Ying Liang , Du Kai , Chen Zhigang , Hu Ping
Published: August 2024

Carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic/aluminum alloy (CFRTP/AL) composite laminates have the advantages of low density, high specific strength, and good fatigue resistance, which is a new type of engineering composite material to realize lightweight vehicle body. Heterogeneous interface delamination failure occurs in the forming process of the fiber metal laminates (FMLs). It is necessary to establish an effective finite element simulation strategy to accurately predict the delamination failure behavior of FMLs. In this work, thermoplastic PA6 continuous carbon fiber/AL FMLs were taken as the research object, and the double cantilever beam (DCB) and the end-notched flexure (ENF) experiments were carried out to determine the basic mechanical parameters between the interlayer interfaces of CFRTP/AL. Furthermore, a numerical simulation model based on ABAQUS software was developed to describe the progressive damage failure behavior of the CRFTP/AL in the forming process by using the equivalent modeling strategy of discontinuous micro-shear, which realized the effective prediction of ply directional damage failure of FMLs on the basis of the S-beam model. The results show that the established damage constitutive model and numerical method coupled with cohesive zone model (CZM) can effectively predict the ply directional damage failure behavior of CFRTP/AL composites during the large deformation forming.
Optimization of Process Variables in Warm Extrusion of a Mg–Al–Zn Alloy by Numerical Simulation
Authors: Tamuly Reeturaj , Kumar D. Ravi , Aravindan S.
Published: August 2024

Magnesium alloys are extensively used in various fields such as automobile, defense, and aerospace due to their high specific strength and good damping properties. Extrusion is one of the important metal forming processes that is used to process the cast alloy into various useful shapes at high production rates. It is also known to improve the workability and strength of the material. Due to these advantages, interest on the extrusion of magnesium alloys has significantly increased in the recent past. But due to poor formability at room temperature, extrusion of Mg alloys in the warm forming temperature range is an important process in the fabrication of these alloys. Optimization of process variables is critical for the minimization of extrusion load and prevention of defects. In this work, numerical simulations of the extrusion process of a Mg–Al–Zn (AZ31) alloy are carried out to predict the optimum combination of process parameters, namely, extrusion ratio, extrusion speed, and extrusion temperature. Hansel Spittle model was used to define the flow stress curve in the simulation. The effect of the process parameters on extrusion load was studied, and the optimum die angle required to minimize the load required for extrusion was predicted.
Fermion-monopole scattering in the Standard Model
Authors: van Beest Marieke , Smith Philip Boyle , Delmastro Diego , Mouland Rishi , Tong David
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We study the scattering of fermions off ’t Hooft lines in the Standard Model. A long-standing paradox suggests that the outgoing fermions necessarily carry fractional quantum numbers. In a previous paper, we resolved this paradox in the context of a number of toy models where we showed that the outgoing radiation is created by operators that are attached to a co-dimension 1 topological surface. This shifts the quantum numbers of the outgoing states associated to non-anomalous symmetries to be integer valued as required, while the quantum numbers associated to anomalous symmetries are fractional. Here we apply these ideas to the Standard Model.
Entanglement island and Page curve for one-sided charged black hole
Authors: Qu Yun-Feng , Lan Yi-Ling , Yu Hongwei , Gan Wen-Cong , Shu Fu-Wen
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we extend the method of calculating the entanglement entropy of Hawking radiation of black holes using the “in” vacuum state, which describes one-sided asymptotically flat neutral black hole formed by gravitational collapse, to dynamic charged black holes. We explore the influence of charge on the position of the boundary of island ∂I and the Page time. Due to their distinct geometric structures, we discuss non-extremal and extremal charged black holes separately. In non-extremal cases, the emergence of island saves the bound of entropy at late times, and the entanglement entropy of Hawking radiation satisfies the Page curve. Moreover, we also find that the position of the boundary of island ∂I depends on the position of the cutoff surface (observers), differing from the behavior in eternal charged black holes. In extremal black holes, when the island exists, the entanglement entropy is approximately equal to the Bekenstein-Hawking entropy, while the entanglement entropy becomes ill-defined when island is absent. Our analysis underscores how different geometric configurations significantly influence the behavior of entropy.
Tetrahedron duality
Authors: Yagi Junya
Published: August 2024

Abstract

A certain two-dimensional supersymmetric gauge theory is argued to satisfy a relation that promotes the Zamolodchikov tetrahedron equation to an infrared duality between two quantum field theories. Solutions of the tetrahedron equation with continuous spin variables are obtained from partition functions of this theory and its variants.
Long-term analysis of hematological parameters as predictors of recurrence patterns and treatment outcomes in cervical cancer patients undergoing definitive chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Elmali Aysenur , Guler Ozan Cem , Demirhan Birhan , Yavuz Melek , Onal Cem
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study sought to determine the predictive and prognostic value of clinicopathological parameters and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and hemoglobin (Hgb) level in predicting recurrence patterns and locoregional relapse-free survival (LRFS) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) in cervical cancer patients receiving definitive chemoradiotherapy (ChRT).

Methods

This study included 261 cervical cancer patients treated with ChRT. The primary endpoints were the predictors of local recurrence (LR) and distant metastasis (DM), whereas the secondary endpoints were LRFS and DMFS. The association of survival with potential prognostic factors was analyzed using Cox regression analysis, and the predictors of LR and DM were identified using logistic regression analysis.

Results

The median follow-up time was 10.9 years. Recurrences occurred in 132 patients (50.6%) within a median of 11.2 months after definitive ChRT. NLR and PLR values were significantly higher in patients with LR and DM than in those without, with no significant differences in Hgb levels in patients with or without LR and DM. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, lymph node metastasis, elevated NLR, and low Hgb level were significantly correlated with LR and DM. In the multivariable analysis, large tumor size, presence of lymph node metastasis, and elevated NLR were the independent predictors for poor LRFS and DMFS, and Hgb level was an additional prognostic factor for DMFS.

Conclusion

Hematological markers, particularly NLR and Hgb, may serve as cost-effective and readily accessible indicators for predicting recurrence and survival in cervical cancer patients, contributing to their practical use in routine assessments.
Superfizielles Angiomyxom der Fußsohle
Authors: Mihalceanu Silvia , Hartschuh Wolfgang , Toberer Ferdinand
Published: August 2024

Das superfizielle Angiomyxom ist eine seltene, benigne Neoplasie, bestehend aus spindeligen Fibroblasten in einem myxoiden, gefäßreichen Stroma. Die diagnostische Abklärung gelingt meist mithilfe der histologischen und immunhistochemischen Aufarbeitung und ist in Abhängigkeit von der klinischen Präsentation von besonderem Stellenwert, da differenzialdiagnostisch auch maligne Tumoren infrage kommen. In unserer Fallvorstellung präsentieren wir einen Patienten mit einem solitären, superfiziellen Angiomyxom der Fußsohle. Obwohl das superfizielle Angiomyxom oft als eine eigenständige Entität auftritt, ist es empfehlenswert, Syndrome wie den Carney-Komplex auszuschließen.
Evaluation of wood chips terminal velocity and some morphological properties in a wind tunnel experiment
Authors: Németh Gábor , Kocsis Zoltán , Magoss Endre
Published: August 2024

The removal of wood dust and chips from the work area is also important for occupational health safety regulation and to avoid the risk of fire and dust explosion. Knowledge of the terminal velocity is an important condition for the effective and economical operation of commonly used wood dust-chip extraction systems. While the largest particles are important from the point of view of the operation of the extraction system, knowledge of the terminal velocity of small particles (under 1 mm) is desirable from the point of view of separation and occupational health safety. New measuring and calculation method is developed in order to determine the terminal velocity of wood particles. We built an experimental device to measure the terminal velocity of wood dust-chip particles, and using the experimental results, we modified the calculated terminal velocity based on the modified equivalent particle density (100–130 kg/m3) in the 1–150 μm size range. The terminal velocity of wood particles under 150 μm more and more deviates from the theoretical values. As a result of mechanical processing, the resulting wood particles’ shape is in most cases flat. The average thickness of the wood particles is mainly determined by the sawing parameters. The flat shape of particles increases the specific surface area in a certain extent depending on the distribution parameters.
Whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing of 1064 individuals with type 1 diabetes reveals novel genes for diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Haukka Jani K. , Antikainen Anni A. , Valo Erkka , Syreeni Anna , Dahlström Emma H. , Lin Bridget M. , Franceschini Nora , Krolewski Andrzej S. , Harjutsalo Valma , Groop Per-Henrik , Sandholm Niina ,   on behalf of the FinnDiane Study Group
Published: August 2024

Aims/hypothesis

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a severe diabetic complication that affects one third of individuals with type 1 diabetes. Although several genes and common variants have been shown to be associated with DKD, much of the predicted inheritance remains unexplained. Here, we performed next-generation sequencing to assess whether low-frequency variants, extending to a minor allele frequency (MAF) ≤10% (single or aggregated) contribute to the missing heritability in DKD.

Methods

We performed whole-exome sequencing (WES) of 498 individuals and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of 599 individuals with type 1 diabetes. After quality control, next-generation sequencing data were available for a total of 1064 individuals, of whom 541 had developed either severe albuminuria or end-stage kidney disease, and 523 had retained normal albumin excretion despite a long duration of type 1 diabetes. Single-variant and gene-aggregate tests for protein-altering variants (PAV) and protein-truncating variants (PTV) were performed separately for WES and WGS data and combined in a meta-analysis. We also performed genome-wide aggregate analyses on genomic windows (sliding window), promoters and enhancers using the WGS dataset.

Results

In the single-variant meta-analysis, no variant reached genome-wide significance, but a suggestively associated common THAP7 rs369250 variant (p=1.50 × 10−5, MAF=49%) was replicated in the FinnGen general population genome-wide association study (GWAS) data for chronic kidney disease and DKD phenotypes. The gene-aggregate meta-analysis provided suggestive evidence (p<4.0 × 10−4) at four genes for DKD, of which NAT16 (MAFPAV≤10%) and LTA (also known as TNFβ, MAFPAV≤5%) are replicated in the FinnGen general population GWAS data. The LTA rs2229092 C allele was associated with significantly lower TNFR1, TNFR2 and TNFR3 serum levels in a subset of FinnDiane participants. Of the intergenic regions suggestively associated with DKD, the enhancer on chromosome 18q12.3 (p=3.94 × 10−5, MAFvariants≤5%) showed interaction with the METTL4 gene; the lead variant was replicated, and predicted to alter binding of the MafB transcription factor.

Conclusions/interpretation

Our sequencing-based meta-analysis revealed multiple genes, variants and regulatory regions that were suggestively associated with DKD. However, as no variant or gene reached genome-wide significance, further studies are needed to validate the findings.

Graphical Abstract
Association of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists with suicidal ideation and self-injury in individuals with diabetes and obesity: a propensity-weighted, population-based cohort study
Authors: Hurtado Isabel , Robles Celia , Peiró Salvador , García-Sempere Aníbal , Sanfélix-Gimeno Gabriel
Published: August 2024

Aims/hypothesis

Regulators worldwide are reviewing safety data on glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), following reports by the Icelandic Medicines Agency in July 2023 of suicidal ideation and self-injury (SIS) in individuals taking liraglutide and semaglutide. We aimed to assess the risk of SIS in new users of GLP-1RA when compared with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) users, prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes in individuals with obesity.

Methods

This is a cohort study combining several population-wide databases and covering a Spanish population of five million inhabitants, including all adults with obesity who initiated treatment with either GLP-1RA or SGLT-2i for type 2 diabetes from 2015 to 2021. To estimate the comparative effect of GLP-1RA on the risk of SIS, we employed a new user, active comparator design and we carried out multivariable Cox regression modelling with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) based on propensity scores. We performed several stratified and sensitivity analyses.

Results

We included 3040 patients initiating treatment with GLP-1RA and 11,627 with SGLT-2i. When compared with patients treated with SGLT-2i, those in the GLP-1RA group were younger (55 vs 60 years old, p<0.001), had more anxiety (49.4% vs 41.5%, p<0.001), sleep disorders (43.2% vs 34.1%, p<0.001) and depression (24.4% vs 19.0%, p<0.001), and were more obese (35.1% of individuals with BMI ≥40 vs 15.1%, p<0.001). After propensity score weighting, standardised mean differences between groups were <0.1 for all covariates, showing adequate balance between groups at baseline after adjustment. In the main per-protocol analyses we found no evidence that GLP-1RA increased the incidence of SIS (HR 1.04; 95% CI 0.35, 3.14). Intention-to-treat analyses resulted in an HR of 1.36 (95% CI 0.51, 3.61). In analyses excluding individuals with no BMI information and using imputation for BMI missing values, respective HRs were 0.89 (95% CI 0.26, 3.14) and 1.29 (95% CI 0.42, 3.92). Stratified analyses showed no differences between subgroups.

Conclusions/interpretation

Our findings do not support an increased risk of SIS when taking GLP-1RA in individuals with type 2 diabetes and obesity; however, the rarity of SIS events and the wide uncertainty of effect size (although null, effect may be compatible with a risk as high as threefold) calls for a cautious interpretation of our results. Further studies, including final evaluations from regulatory bodies, are called for to discard a causal link between GLP-1RA and suicidality.

Graphical Abstract
New approach to $${\upalpha }$$-titanium mechanical properties enhancement by means of thermoplastic deformation in mid-temperature range
Authors: Bańczerowski Jakub , Pawlikowski Marek , Płociński Tomasz , Zagórski Andrzej , Sawicki Sylwester , Gieleta Roman
Published: August 2024

Pure titanium due to its high corrosion resistance, low stiffness and good mechanical properties is commonly used in medicine for orthopaedic applications. However, its material properties (especially in the case of $${\upalpha }$$
α
-titanium) require a further enhancement to fulfil its role. The thermoplastic deformation in mid-temperature is proposed as a method for microstructure improvement. Titanium samples were compressed in different temperatures and strain rates to determine the best conditions for grain fragmentation—the main factor responsible for strength and hardness increase. The thermoplastic stress–strain curves were registered. Then microstructure observations and electron backscatter analysis were performed on the chosen samples. Finally, mechanical response of the previously deformed material was obtained in room temperature compression tests. A significant grain fragmentation was recorded for the material deformed in 400 $$^{\circ }\hbox {C}$$

∘

C

, at 0.1/s and 1/s strain rates. Desirable results were also noticed for the deformation performed at 500–600 $$^{\circ }\hbox {C}$$

∘

C

. However, high temperatures (700–800 $$^{\circ }\hbox {C}$$

∘

C

) and strain rates (10/s) resulted in dynamic recrystallization, causing undesirable grain growth. An increase in hardness was observed in all cases, with higher values recorded in lower deformation temperatures. Room temperature compression tests revealed slight increase of ductility.
Posterior Tibial Nerve Stimulation With versus Without Mirabegron: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Stanley Russell F. , Meyer Isuzu , Blanchard Christina T. , Richter Holly E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction and Hypothesis

To compare change in urgency urinary incontinence episodes (UUIEs) in women undergoing posterior tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) plus mirabegron versus PTNS plus placebo for the treatment of refractory urgency urinary incontinence (UUI). The primary hypothesis was that combination therapy is superior to monotherapy.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was performed in individuals identifying as female aged ≥ 18 years with UUI symptoms refractory to second-line treatment or who could not tolerate antimuscarinic medications. Both participants and providers were blinded to medication treatment allocation. Participants were randomized (1:1) to PTNS plus mirabegron or PTNS plus placebo. Participants completed a 3-day bladder diary prior to and after 12-week treatment. Validated symptom distress and impact questionnaires were obtained pre- and post-treatment. The primary outcome was change in mean number of UUIEs on a 3-day bladder diary pre- versus post-treatment between arms. Primary and secondary outcomes were analyzed via sample t tests.

Results

Fifty-four subjects were randomized, mean ± SD baseline age 56.2±15.6 years and body mass index 35.0±9.4 (kg/m2); no differences were noted in any clinical–demographic characteristics. There was a significant difference between arms in mean pre- to post-treatment UUIEs, 9.4±3.9, mirabegron versus 5.3±5.5, placebo (p=0.007). Significant differences were found pre- compared with post-treatment in urinary frequency, Overactive Bladder Questionnaire Short Form Symptom Bother and Symptom Health-Related Quality of Life scores.

Conclusions

In subjects undergoing PTNS treatment for refractory UUI and OAB-wet symptoms, the addition of a β-3 agonist produced significant improvement in both objective and subjective overactive bladder symptom outcomes compared with PTNS plus placebo.
Temperature imaging during the hydrogen release reaction from a liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC) system using phosphor thermometry
Authors: Bollmann Jonas , Bauer Florian , Keim Silvan , Herz Nikolas , Zigan Lars , Wasserscheid Peter , Will Stefan
Published: August 2024

Liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC) systems offer a particularly interesting option for chemical hydrogen storage. In order to characterize and understand the endothermal hydrogen release from the carrier liquid and to evaluate suitable catalyst materials, knowledge of the temperature fields in the dehydrogenation reactor is important. One suitable technique for planar temperature sensing in reacting systems is phosphor thermometry. It is based on the excitation of a luminescent material by a laser pulse and detection of the subsequent phosphorescence signal. We investigated the luminescence of the thermographic phosphor (Sr,Ca)SiAIN3:Eu2+ (“SCASN:Eu2+”) dispersed in the H0-DBT / H18-DBT LOHC system in a temperature range from 400 to 600 K. A measurement cell enables repeatable and homogeneous measurement conditions of the hydrogen release reaction. A catalytic plate was put inside the heated LOHC. Temperature fields during the hydrogen release reaction were measured for the first time using the phosphorescence decay time (PDT) and the phosphorescence intensity ratio method (PIR). As expected, a strong cooling at the catalyst surface during the endothermal hydrogen release reaction could be observed, which was quantified to be in the range of 40 K.

Graphical abstract
Immunofluorescence analyses of respiratory epithelial cells aid the diagnosis of nephronophthisis
Authors: Hellmann Carlotta , Wohlgemuth Kai , Pennekamp Petra , George Sebastian , Dahmer-Heath Mareike , Konrad Martin , Omran Heymut , König Jens ,   for the NEOCYST Consortium, Bergmann C. , Cetiner M. , Drube J. , Gimpel C. , Göbel J. , Haffner D. , Illig T. , Klopp N. , Liebau M. C. , Lienkamp S. , Okorn C. , Pape L. , Schaefer F. , Schermer B. , Storf H. , Titieni A. , Weber S. , Ziegler W. , Kamp-Becker I. , Vasseur J. , Kollmann S. , Gerß J.
Published: August 2024

Background

Nephronophthisis (NPH) comprises a heterogeneous group of inherited renal ciliopathies clinically characterized by progressive kidney failure. So far, definite diagnosis is based on molecular testing only. Here, we studied the feasibility of NPHP1 and NPHP4 immunostaining of nasal epithelial cells to secure and accelerate the diagnosis of NPH.

Methods

Samples of 86 individuals with genetically determined renal ciliopathies were analyzed for NPHP1 localization using immunofluorescence microscopy (IF). A sub-cohort of 35 individuals was also analyzed for NPHP4 localization. Western blotting was performed to confirm IF results.

Results

NPHP1 and NPHP4 were both absent in all individuals with disease-causing NPHP1 variants including one with a homozygous missense variant (c.1027G > A; p.Gly343Arg) formerly classified as a “variant of unknown significance.” In individuals with an NPHP4 genotype, we observed a complete absence of NPHP4 while NPHP1 was severely reduced. IF results were confirmed by immunoblotting. Variants in other genes related to renal ciliopathies did not show any impact on NPHP1/NPHP4 expression. Aberrant immunostaining in two genetically unsolved individuals gave rise for a further genetic workup resulting in a genetic diagnosis for both with disease-causing variants in NPHP1 and NPHP4, respectively.

Conclusions

IF of patient-derived respiratory epithelial cells may help to secure and accelerate the diagnosis of nephronophthisis—both by verifying inconclusive genetic results and by stratifying genetic diagnostic approaches. Furthermore, we provide in vivo evidence for the interaction of NPHP1 and NPHP4 in a functional module.

Graphical abstract
Effect of drought acclimation on sugar metabolism in millet
Authors: Amoah Joseph N. , Adu-Gyamfi Monica Ode
Published: August 2024

Drought stress triggers sugar accumulation in plants, providing energy and aiding in protection against oxidative damage. Plant hardening under mild stress conditions has been shown to enhance plant resistance to severe stress conditions. While sugar accumulation and metabolism under drought stress have been well-documented in crop plants, the effect of drought acclimation treatment on sugar accumulation and metabolism has not yet been explored. In this study, we investigated the impact of drought stress acclimation on sugar accumulation and metabolism in the leaves and root tissues of two commonly cultivated foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) genotypes, 'PI 689680' and 'PI 662292'. Quantification of total sugars (soluble sugar, fructose, glucose, and sucrose), their related enzymes (SPS, SuSy, NI, and AI), and the regulation of their related transcripts (SiSPS1, SiSuSy1, SiSWEET6, SiA-INV, and SiC-INV) revealed that drought-acclimated (DA) plants exhibited levels of these indicators comparable to those of control plants. However, under subsequent drought stress conditions, both the leaves and roots of non-acclimated plants accumulated higher levels of total sugars, displayed increased activity of sugar metabolism enzymes, and showed elevated expression of sugar metabolism-related transcripts compared to drought-acclimated plants. Thus, acclimation-induced restriction of sugar accumulation, transport, and metabolism could be one of the metabolic processes contributing to enhanced drought tolerance in millet. This study advocates for the use of acclimation as an effective strategy to mitigate the negative impacts of drought-induced metabolic disturbances in millet, thereby enhancing global food security and promoting sustainable agricultural systems.
Soil Legacies of Tree Species Composition in Mature Forest Affect Tree Seedlings’ Performance
Authors: Dhiedt Els , Baeten Lander , De Smedt Pallieter , Jaroszewicz Bogdan , Verheyen Kris
Published: August 2024

Trees affect the biotic and abiotic properties of the soil in which they grow. Tree species-specific effects can persist for a long time, even after the trees have been removed. We investigated to what extent such soil legacies of different tree species may impact tree seedlings in their emergence and growth. We performed a plant–soil feedback experiment, using soil that was conditioned in plots that vary in tree species composition in Białowieża Forest, Poland. Soil was taken from plots varying in proportion of birch, hornbeam, pine, and oak. In each soil, seeds of the same four target species were sown in pots. Seedling emergence and growth were monitored for one growing season. To further explore biotic implications of soil legacies, ectomycorrhizal root tip colonization of oak, a keystone forest species, was determined. We found no effect of soil legacies of tree species on the emergence measures. We, however, found a clear negative effect of pine legacies on the total biomass of all four seedling species. In addition, we found relationships between the presence of pine and soil fertility and between soil fertility and root tip colonization. Root tip colonization was positively correlated with the biomass of oak seedlings. We conclude that tree species can leave legacies that persist after that species has been removed. These legacies influence the growth of the next generation of trees likely via abiotic and biotic pathways. Thus, the choice of species in today’s forest may also matter for the structure and composition of future forests.
Endonasal endoscopic or endoscopic-assisted transcranial surgery of Rathke’s cleft cysts: does the approach and surgical technique influence the radicality and recurrence rate?
Authors: Linsler Stefan , Schon Laura , Fischer Gerrit , Senger Sebastian , Oertel Joachim
Published: August 2024

Objective: Resections of symptomatic Rathke’s cleft cysts (RCCs) are mainly performed via an endonasal transsphenoidal approach. However, there is a lack of equivalent data in current literature concerning transcranial keyhole approach in the treatment of RCCs. In order to find general recommendations for the surgical treatment of RCCs also with regard to recurrence, the object of this study is the analysis and comparison of both techniques. Methods: Twenty-nine patients having been surgically treated between January 2004 and August 2019 were retrospectively analysed. The transsphenoidal approach was chosen in 16 cases and the transcranial keyhole approach in 13 cases. Both surgical techniques were analyzed and compared concerning preoperative symptoms and cyst characteristics, complications, surgical radicality, endocrinological and ophthalmological outcome and recurrences in patients´ follow up. Results: The postoperative outcome of both techniques was identic and showed highly satisfying success rates with 92% for neurological deficits, 82% for endocrinological dysfunctions and 86% for visual deficits. In contrast, momentous postoperative complications were significantly more likely after transsphenoidal operations. After a mean follow-up time of 5.7 years, the recurrence rates of both cohorts were the same with 0% each. Conclusions: Regarding its equal outcome with its lower complication rate, the authors suggest using the supraorbital keyhole approach for RCCs whose anatomical configuration allow both techniques. Yet, the decision should always consider the surgeon’s personal experience and other individual patient characteristics. Further studies with higher numbers of cases and longer follow-up periods are necessary to analyse the effect of the selected approach on recurrence.
Suture reinforcement using a modified cyanoacrylate glue to prevent anastomotic leak in colorectal surgery: a prospective multicentre randomized trial
Authors: Tomasicchio G. , Martines G. , Tartaglia N. , Buonfantino M. , Restini E. , Carlucci B. , Giove C. , Dezi A. , Ranieri C. , Logrieco G. , Vincenti L. , Ambrosi A. , Altomare D. F. , De Fazio M. , Picciariello A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is the most frequent life-threating complication following colorectal surgery. Several attempts have been made to prevent AL. This prospective, randomized, multicentre trial aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of nebulised modified cyanoacrylate in preventing AL after rectal surgery.

Methods

Patients submitted to colorectal surgery for carcinoma of the high-medium rectum across five high-volume centres between June 2021 and January 2023 entered the study and were randomized into group A (anastomotic reinforcement with cyanoacrylate) and group B (no reinforcement) and followed up for 30 days. Anastomotic reinforcement was performed via nebulisation of 1 mL of a modified cyanoacrylate glue. Preoperative features and intraoperative and postoperative results were recorded and compared. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ID number NCT03941938).

Results

Out of 152 patients, 133 (control group, n = 72; cyanoacrylate group, n = 61) completed the follow-up. ALs were detected in nine patients (12.5%) in the control group (four grade B and five grade C) and in four patients (6.6%), in the cyanoacrylate group (three grade B and one grade C); however, despite this trend, the differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.36). However, Clavien–Dindo complications grade > 2 were significantly higher in the control group (12.5% vs. 3.3%, p = 0.04). No adverse effects related to the glue application were reported.

Conclusion

The role of modified cyanoacrylate application in AL prevention remains unclear. However its use to seal colorectal anastomoses is safe and could help to reduce severe postoperative complications.
Assessing neoadjuvant therapy recommendations in 19 national and international guidelines for rectal cancer
Authors: Mroczkowski Pawel , Atay Selim , Viebahn Richard
Published: August 2024

Background

 Treatment guidelines belong to the most authoritative sources of evidence-based medicine and are widely implemented by health-care providers. Rectal cancer with an annual incidence of over 730,000 new cases and nearly 340,000 deaths worldwide, remains a significant therapeutic challenge. The total mesorectal excision (TME) leads to a dramatic improvement of local control. The addition of neoadjuvant treatment has been proposed to offer further advancement. However, this addition results in significant functional impairment and a decline in the quality of life.

Methods

This review critically assesses whether the recommendation for neoadjuvant treatment in current international guidelines is substantiated. A comprehensive search was conducted in July 2022 in PubMed resulting in 988 papers published in English between 2012 and 2022. After exclusions and proofs 19 documents remained for further analysis.

Results

Of the 19 guidelines considered in this review, 11 do not recommend upfront surgery, and 12 do not address the issue of functional impairment following multimodal treatment. The recommendation for neoadjuvant therapy relies on outdated references, lacking differentiated strategies based on current utilisation of MRI staging; numerous guidelines recommend neoadjuvant treatment also to subgroups of patients, who may not need this therapy. Also statements regarding conflicts of interest are often not presented.

Conclusions

An immediate and imperative step is warranted to align the recommendations with the latest available evidence, thereby affording rectal cancer patients a commensurate standard of care. A meticulous assessment of the guideline formulation process has the potential to avert heterogeneity in the future.
Polynomial and Rational Measure Modifications of Orthogonal Polynomials via Infinite-Dimensional Banded Matrix Factorizations
Authors: Gutleb Timon S. , Olver Sheehan , Slevinsky Richard Mikaël
Published: August 2024

We describe fast algorithms for approximating the connection coefficients between a family of orthogonal polynomials and another family with a polynomially or rationally modified measure. The connection coefficients are computed via infinite-dimensional banded matrix factorizations and may be used to compute the modified Jacobi matrices all in linear complexity with respect to the truncation degree. A family of orthogonal polynomials with modified classical weights is constructed that support banded differentiation matrices, enabling sparse spectral methods with modified classical orthogonal polynomials. We present several applications and numerical experiments using an open source implementation which make direct use of these results.
Hakea decurrens invasion increases fire hazard at the landscape scale
Authors: Gerber Dionatan , Azevedo João C. , Nereu Mauro , de Oliveira Aline Silva , Marchante Elizabete , Jacobson Tamiel Khan Baiocchi , Silva Joaquim S.
Published: August 2024

Hakea decurrens subsp. physocarpa is an invasive fire-adapted shrub of Australian origin that is quickly expanding in Portugal with potential impacts on fire behavior and fire regime. In this study we examined the effects of H. decurrens on fire hazard by assessing fire behavior indicators at the landscape scale, using a modeling and simulation approach. Six fuel models for H. decurrens were developed through fuel characterization and experimental fires. The fuel models correspond to combinations of developmental stages of H. decurrens populations (Early, Intermediate and Mature) and management (Standing and Slashed fuels). These combinations were used with three levels of H. decurrens invasion, corresponding to 25%, 50% and 75% of cover of the landscape, applied to five real landscapes in northern Portugal (replicates) under three fuel moisture conditions (Low, Medium and High), used as surrogates of weather severity. Fire behavior simulations were conducted with FlamMap software. The relationships between fire behavior indicators (flame length, rate of spread and burn probability) at the landscape level and the four factors tested were analyzed using Generalized Linear Mixed Models. Standing fuels were found to be more hazardous than slashed fuels. Fire-hazard increased with H. decurrens stand maturity and slash, regardless of moisture conditions. The results of this study indicate that H. decurrens expansion might negatively affect the fire regime in the north of Portugal. Our findings add to other known negative impacts of the species on native ecosystems, calling for the need to reinforce its control.
Super-localized orthogonal decomposition for convection-dominated diffusion problems
Authors: Bonizzoni Francesca , Freese Philip , Peterseim Daniel
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a novel multi-scale method for convection-dominated diffusion problems in the regime of large Péclet numbers. The method involves applying the solution operator to piecewise constant right-hand sides on an arbitrary coarse mesh, which defines a finite-dimensional coarse ansatz space with favorable approximation properties. For some relevant error measures, including the $$L^2$$

L
2

-norm, the Galerkin projection onto this generalized finite element space even yields $$\varepsilon $$
ε
-independent error bounds, $$\varepsilon $$
ε
being the singular perturbation parameter. By constructing an approximate local basis, the approach becomes a novel multi-scale method in the spirit of the Super-Localized Orthogonal Decomposition (SLOD). The error caused by basis localization can be estimated in an a posteriori way. In contrast to existing multi-scale methods, numerical experiments indicate $$\varepsilon $$
ε
-robust convergence without pre-asymptotic effects even in the under-resolved regime of large mesh Péclet numbers.