bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
p16INK4A flow cytometry of exfoliated cervical cells: Its role in quantitative pathology and clinical diagnosis of squamous intraepithelial lesions
Authors: He Yifeng , Shi Jun , Zhao Hui , Wang Yuefei , Zhang Chi , Han Sai , He Qizhi , Li Xiaolan , Li Shangji , Wang Wenjing , Yi Muhua , Hu Xiaoling , Xing Zhihua , Han Hao , Gao Yinshuang , Zhou Qing , Lu Linlin , Guo Jianfen , Cao Hui , Lu Caiping , Hou Yanqiang , Chen Dan , Yang Fengyun , Lei Ping , Di Wen , Qian Ji , Xia Yi , Zhang Youzhong , Deng Yang , Zhu Jianlong , Xu Congjian
Published: March 2023

Background

P16INK4A is a surrogate signature compensating for the specificity and/or sensitivity deficiencies of the human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA and Papanicolaou smear (Pap) co‐test for detecting high‐grade cervical squamous intraepithelial lesions or worse (HSIL+). However, traditional p16INK4A immunostaining is labour intensive and skill demanding, and subjective biases cannot be avoided. Herein, we created a high‐throughput, quantitative diagnostic device, p16INK4A flow cytometry (FCM) and assessed its performances in cervical cancer screening and prevention.

Methods

P16INK4A FCM was built upon a novel antibody clone and a series of positive and negative (p16INK4A‐knockout) standards. Since 2018, 24 100‐women (HPV‐positive/‐negative, Pap‐normal/‐abnormal) have been enrolled nationwide for two‐tier validation work. In cross‐sectional studies, age‐ and viral genotype‐dependent expression of p16INK4A was investigated, and optimal diagnostic parameter cut‐offs (using colposcopy and biopsy as a gold standard) were obtained. In cohort studies, the 2‐year prognostic values of p16INK4A were investigated with other risk factors by multivariate regression analyses in three cervicopathological conditions: HPV‐positive Pap‐normal, Pap‐abnormal biopsy‐negative and biopsy‐confirmed LSIL.

Results

P16INK4A FCM detected a minimal ratio of 0.01% positive cells. The p16INK4A‐positive ratio was 13.9 ± 1.8% among HPV‐negative NILM women and peaked at the ages of 40–49 years; after HPV infection, the ratio increased to 15.1 ± 1.6%, varying with the carcinogenesis of the viral genotype. Further increments were found in women with neoplastic lesions (HPV‐negative: 17.7 ± 5.0–21.4 ± 7.2%; HPV‐positive: 18.0 ± 5.2–20.0 ± 9.9%). Extremely low expression of p16INK4A was observed in women with HSILs. As the HPV‐combined double‐cut‐off‐ratio criterion was adopted, a Youden's index of 0.78 was obtained, which was significantly higher than that (0.72) of the HPV and Pap co‐test. The p16INK4A‐abnormal situation was an independent HSIL+ risk factor for 2‐year outcomes in all three cervicopathological conditions investigated (hazard ratios: 4.3–7.2).

Conclusions

FCM‐based p16INK4A quantification offers a better choice for conveniently and precisely monitoring the occurrence of HSIL+ and directing risk‐stratification‐based interventions.
Synergistic use of UAV surveys, satellite tracking data, and mark‐recapture to estimate abundance of elusive species
Authors: Stokes Holly J. , Mortimer Jeanne A. , Laloë Jacques‐Olivier , Hays Graeme C. , Esteban Nicole
Published: March 2023

Estimating population abundance is central to many ecological studies and important in conservation planning. Yet the elusive nature of many species makes estimating their abundance challenging. Abundance estimates of sea turtles, marine birds, and seals are usually made when breeding adults are ashore, while life stages spent at sea, including as juveniles, are often poorly sampled. We used a combination of high‐resolution satellite tracking (Fastloc‐GPS), uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) surveys, and capture‐mark‐recapture approaches to assess the abundance of immature hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) and green turtles (Chelonia mydas) in a tidal lagoon of the Chagos Archipelago (Indian Ocean). We captured, marked, and released 50 turtles (48 hawksbill and 2 green turtles) prior to UAV surveys and used satellite tracking data from 27 immature turtles (25 hawksbill and 2 green turtles) to refine the estimated numbers of marked turtles available for resighting and those likely to have emigrated from the study area. We estimated a total of 339 turtles in the lagoon with a density variation at different tidal heights between 265 turtles km−2 at high water and 499 turtles km−2 at low water. Of these, 91% were hawksbills and 9% were green turtles. These hawksbill densities are the highest reported among 17 foraging sites recorded around the world and likely reflect successful long‐term protection of turtles in the Chagos Archipelago.
Heritability of plastic trait changes in drought‐exposed ponderosa pine seedlings
Authors: Wu Dean , Shu Mengjun , Moran Emily V.
Published: March 2023

Climate change is imposing new selective pressures on forest tree populations. Evolutionary responses may be important for trees, despite long generation times, since many populations harbor significant genetic variation in environmentally relevant traits. However, the heritability of climate responses (e.g., how much growth differs under drought) has been investigated in only one tree species previously. Here, we quantify heritable variation in environmental response traits of Pinus ponderosa using a greenhouse trial. Five seedlings from each maternal family were exposed to either wet or dry treatments for four months. Traits measured include height and root length, root:shoot mass ratios, and stomatal density and number of rows. Narrow‐sense heritability for all traits was estimated using a half‐sib analysis. Many traits varied by treatment, and some also differed along gradients of “home” climate. Dry treatment root‐to‐shoot dry mass ratio was associated with survival in that treatment. Estimated heritability for drought responsiveness ranged from 0.15 to 0.65, with the highest values occurring in height growth responses. Variation was particularly high for shoot growth under drought conditions. Our results suggest that increasingly arid conditions could result in strong responses to selection.
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of Divalent Transition Metal Alkynylamidinate Complexes
Authors: Wang Sida , Liebing Phil , Feneberg Martin , Sroor Farid M. , Engelhardt Felix , Hilfert Liane , Busse Sabine , Kluth Elias , Goldhahn Rüdiger , Edelmann Frank T.
Published: March 2023

A series of new alkynylamidinate complexes of selected first and second row transition metals has been synthesized and fully characterized. Treatment of MCl2 precursors (M=Mn, Fe, Co) with 2 equiv. of the lithium alkynylamidinates Li[c‐C3H5−C≡C−C(NR′)2] ⋅ THF (R′=iPr (2), Cy (cyclohexyl) (2)) afforded a series of binuclear complexes of the type M2[c‐C3H5−C≡C−C(NR)2‐κN:κN′]2[c‐C3H5−C≡C−C(NR)2‐κ2N,N′]2 (3: M=Mn, R=Cy; 4 a: M=Fe, R=iPr; 4 b: M=Fe, R=Cy; 5: M=Co, R=iPr) with no significant metal‐metal bonding. In marked contrast, a similar reaction of CrCl2 with 2 equiv. of 1 afforded the homoleptic dinuclear chromium(II) complex Cr2[c‐C3H5−C≡C−C(NiPr)2‐κN:κN′]4 (6) which supposedly comprises a Cr−Cr quadruple bond. Complex 6 could also be prepared in a more rational way and in better yield (61 %) by using dichromium(II) tetraacetate, Cr2(OAc)4, as starting material. Related reactions employing dimolybdenum(II) tetraacetate, Mo2(OAc)4, and 2 or 3 equiv. of 1 afforded the mixed‐ligand paddle wheel‐type complexes trans‐Mo2(OAc‐κO:κO′)2([c‐C3H5−C≡C−C(NiPr)2‐κN:κN′]2 (7) and Mo2(OAc‐κO:κO′)([c‐C3H5−C≡C−C(NiPr)2‐κN:κN′]3 (8). All title compounds were structurally characterized through single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and spectroscopic techniques (NMR, IR, Raman).
Reconfigurability analysis of an all‐dielectric thermal microfluidic‐based metasurface
Authors: AlGhamdi Ahmed , Yousaf Jawad , Yahyaoui Ali , Sobahi Nebras , Hakim Bandar , Mittra Raj , Rmili Hatem
Published: March 2023

Metasurface tuning is performed using different ways for a wide range of applications. This study presents the design of a thermally‐tuned all‐dielectric reconfigurable metasurface. A microfluidic channel, filled with different concentrations of tellurium–selenium (Te‐Se) alloy, is added on the top of the elliptical dielectric resonator (EDR) unit cell of the considered metasurface. The electrical properties of used semiconductor alloy are varied in the range of 400 to 700°C (steps size of 100°C). The impact of thermal tuning on the reflection and transmission characteristics of the designed metasurface is analyzed in the frequency range of 20–30 GHz using COMSOL Multiphysics. Obtained results demonstrated that the realized metasurface exhibits reconfigurable behavior in terms of variations in the reflection and transmission characteristics with a change in either temperature or concentrations of selenium and tellurium. The wider bands with high reflection and low transmission frequency bands are obtained with lower concentrations of selenium and tellurium for all operating temperatures.
Mechanical Structuring of Lithium‐Ion Battery Electrodes Using an Embossing Roller
Authors: Keilhofer Josef , Schaffranka Leon Wolfgang Ferdinand , Wuttke Amy , Günter Florian Josef , Hille Lucas , Dorau Filip Adam , Daub Rüdiger
Published: March 2023

Highly performing lithium‐ion batteries are essential for the electrification of the transport sector. However, the two performance criteria, high power density and high energy density, inversely correlate with each other via the mass loading of the electrodes. To achieve high charging and discharging rates at high energy densities, structuring of electrodes is a proven method. Currently, structures are mostly realized by laser ablation, which comes along with material loss and low process rates. Herein, a concept for electrode structuring through mechanical embossing in a high‐throughput roll‐to‐roll process is elaborated. Different integration options are described and the challenges are discussed. To provide a proof of concept, a hand‐operated embossing device is built and used to structure graphite anodes. In a rate capability test, an increase in discharge capacity at medium C‐rates by up to 14.3% is observed.
Centering 30 × 30 conservation initiatives on freshwater ecosystems
Authors: Moravek Jessie A , Andrews Lucy R , Serota Mitchell W , Dorcy Janelle A , Chapman Melissa , Wilkinson Christine E , Parker‐Shames Phoebe , Van Scoyoc Amy , Verta Guadalupe , Brashares Justin S
Published: March 2023

Regional, national, and international 30 × 30 conservation initiatives would be strengthened by including a specific focus on freshwater ecosystem conservation that supplements terrestrial conservation strategies. Globally, freshwater habitats support essential biodiversity and ecosystem services, yet are being lost at disproportionately high rates relative to terrestrial systems. Making freshwater ecosystems an explicit focus of 30 × 30 initiatives would assist in curtailing these losses while advancing 30 × 30's mission to address climate change, economic sustainability, food security, and equitable outdoor access across a variety of landscapes. Here, we explain how fresh water can serve as a key piece of 30 × 30 conservation efforts. We emphasize that to address the challenges of traditional area‐based conservation programs, 30 × 30 should (1) focus on watershed‐scale conservation planning and (2) evaluate conserved areas based on five freshwater priorities: connectivity, watershed disturbance, flow alteration, water quality, and biodiversity. We use examples from the US state of California to illustrate how addressing freshwater systems can help guide 30 × 30 conservation.
Pathway to mainstream youth engagement and intergenerational partnership in nature conservation
Authors: Zurba Melanie , Dhyani Shalini , Mwaura Grace , Sivadas Deepu , Elegbede Isa , Williamson Douglas F
Published: March 2023

Here, we discuss the findings from and high‐level recommendations of an IUCN‐commissioned review on youth engagement and intergenerational partnership. Our study demonstrates that youth involvement in global conservation efforts at the international scale has grown dramatically over the past several years, with efforts to foster involvement at different levels and locales. The numerous and complex interconnections resulting from this increased involvement have yet to be standardized or subject to best practices. However, efforts by different actors to promote youth engagement and intergenerational partnership have now created new institutional spaces for such actors to assume leadership roles.
Food, gut barrier dysfunction, and related diseases: A new target for future individualized disease prevention and management
Authors: Liang Linda , Saunders Clarissa , Sanossian Nerses
Published: March 2023

Dysfunction of gut barrier is known as “leaky gut” or increased intestinal permeability. Numerous recent scientific evidences showed the association between gut dysfunction and multiple gastrointestinal tract (GI) and non‐GI diseases. Research also demonstrated that food plays a crucial role to cause or remedy gut dysfunction related to diseases. We reviewed recent articles from electronic databases, mainly PubMed. The data were based on animal models, cell models, and human research in vivo and in vitro models. In this comprehensive review, our aim focused on the relationship between dietary factors, intestinal permeability dysfunction, and related diseases. This review synthesizes currently available literature and is discussed in three parts: (a) the mechanism of gut barrier and function, (b) food and dietary supplements that may promote gut health, and food or medication that may alter gut function, and (c) a table that organizes the synthesized information by general mechanisms for diseases related to leaky gut/intestinal permeability and associated dietary influences. With future research, dietary intervention could be a new target for individualized disease prevention and management.
Biomarkers of gut barrier dysfunction and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in the REVEAL‐HBV and REVEAL‐HCV cohort studies
Authors: Petrick Jessica L. , Florio Andrea A. , Zen Jane , Wang Yanyu , Gewirtz Andrew T. , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Loftus Sarah , Inglefield Jon , Koshiol Jill , Yang Baiyu , Yu Kelly , Hildesheim Allan , Chen Chien‐Jen , Yang Hwai‐I , Lee Mei‐Hsuan , McGlynn Katherine A.
Published: March 2023

Gut barrier dysfunction can result in the liver being exposed to an elevated level of gut‐derived bacterial products via portal circulation. Growing evidence suggests that systemic exposure to these bacterial products promotes liver diseases including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, prospective studies have not examined the association between biomarkers of gut barrier dysfunction and HCC risk in a population of hepatitis B or C viral (HBV/HCV) carriers. We investigated whether prediagnostic, circulating biomarkers of gut barrier dysfunction were associated with HCC risk, using the Risk Evaluation of Viral Load Elevation and Associated Liver Disease/Cancer (REVEAL)‐HBV and REVEAL‐HCV cohorts from Taiwan. REVEAL‐HBV included 185 cases and 161 matched controls, and REVEAL‐HCV 96 cases and 96 matched controls. The biomarkers quantitated were immunoglobulin A (IgA), IgG, and IgM against lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and flagellin, soluble CD14 (an LPS coreceptor), and LPS‐binding protein (LBP). Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations between biomarker levels and HCC were calculated using multivariable‐adjusted logistic regression. A doubling of the circulating levels of antiflagellin IgA or LBP was associated with a 76% to 93% increased risk of HBV‐related HCC (OR per one unit change in log2 antiflagellin IgA = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.06‐2.93; OR for LBP = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.10‐3.38). None of the other markers were associated with an increased risk of HBV‐related or HCV‐related HCC. Results were similar when cases diagnosed in the first 5 years of follow‐up were excluded. Our findings contribute to understanding the interplay of gut barrier dysfunction and primary liver cancer etiology.
Activity and steady‐state kinetics of one‐dimensional kinetic Ising model
Authors: Liang Kuo Kan
Published: March 2023

In this work, we focused on the kinetics of a one‐dimensional Ising system (1DIS) with constant nearest‐neighbor interaction (NNI). The exact solution of both thermodynamics and kinetics of this system under quasi‐chemical approximation (QCA) had been shown in the literature, and the equilibrium solution was exact. In this work, it was discussed why QCA applied the best in the case of 1DIS with constant NNI. Furthermore, extension had been made to discuss that due to this special reason, perhaps the kinetics of the system under QCA is the correct steady‐state kinetics. Inspired by this observation, the activity and activity coefficients of the system was studied closely to re‐examine the form of the equation of motion under QCA. A novel concept—the instantaneous activities and the corresponding instantaneous activity coefficients—was introduced, and in terms of these quantities the kinetics seemed to be much simpler and physically more meaningful. The chevron plot of this system was also discussed and new way of looking at the rollover of chevron plots was presented.
Supramolecular assembly and solvochromic luminescence of a Au(I) complex containing di(4‐pyridylmethyl)aminedithiocarbamate
Authors: Tzeng Biing‐Chiau , Hung Jun‐Wei , Wu Chung‐Lun , Lee Gene‐Hsiang
Published: March 2023

The di(4‐pyridylmethyl)aminedithiocarbamate (DPMACS2) ligand was used to react with (Me2S)AuCl to give a dinuclear complex, [Au(DPMACS2)]2, which shows both intramolecular Au(I)⋅⋅⋅Au(I) distances of 2.741(9)–2.788(1) Å and intermolecular Au(I)···Au(I) contacts of 2.917(5)–3.047(7) Å, leading to 1‐D Au(I) chains in the solid state. In addition, complex [Au(DPMACS2)]2 shows the luminescence at 555 nm at room temperature while excited, and almost no energy shift for the luminescence at 553 nm upon grinding has been observed. In this regard, we further examined the solvochromic luminescence upon grinding with various solvents, and the luminescence is within 549–572 nm. It is noted that the solvochromic luminescence for dichloromethane (566 nm) and 1,2‐dichloroethane (572 nm) has been observed, and the original luminescence at 555 nm can be restored upon solvent loss. Indeed, such red‐shifts for the solvochromic luminescence are most likely due to a decrease in intermolecular Au(I)⋅⋅⋅Au(I) contacts while solvents entering into crystal lattices upon grinding and it is a reversible process upon solvent loss.
T‐cell exhaustion: A potential target biomarker of the tumour microenvironment affecting oesophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Peng Shiyu , Han Xiaojiang , Geng Wenbin , Zhao Lifang
Published: March 2023

Background

Oesophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is one of the most common malignant tumours, and the number of patients is increasing year by year. T‐cell exhaustion (TEX) is an important risk factor for tumour immunosuppression and invasion, but its underlying mechanism in the pathogenesis of EAC is not clear.

Methods

Unsupervised clustering was performed to screen relevant genes based on Gene Set Variation Analysis scores of the three pathways of the HALLMARK gene set IL2/IFNG/TNFA. Multiple enrichment analyses and data combinations were used to depict the relationship between TEX‐related risk models and CIBERSORTx immune infiltrating cells. In addition, to explore the impact of TEX on EAC therapeutic resistance, we assessed the impact of TEX risk models on the therapeutic sensitivity of various novel drugs using single‐cell sequencing and searched for their potential therapeutic targets and cellular communication.

Results

Four risk clusters of EAC patients were identified by unsupervised clustering and searched for potential TEX‐related genes. Based on this, LASSO regression and decision trees were used to construct risk prognostic models containing a total of three TEX‐associated genes in EAC. The results showed that TEX risk scores were significantly associated with the survival prognosis of EAC patients in both the Cancer Genome Atlas dataset and the independent validation set of Gene Expression Omnibus. Immune infiltration and cell communication analyses identified mast cell resting as a protective factor in TEX, and pathway enrichment analyses showed that the TEX risk model was highly associated with multiple chemokines as well as inflammation‐associated pathways. In addition, higher TEX risk scores were associated with a weak responsiveness to immunotherapy.

Conclusion

We describe the immune infiltration, prognostic significance and potential possible mechanisms of TEX in the EAC patient population. This is a novel attempt to promote the development of novel therapeutic modalities and immunological target construction for oesophageal adenocarcinoma. It is expected to make a potential contribution to advancing the exploration of immunological mechanisms and the opening of target drugs in EAC.
Competitive, multi‐objective, and compartmented Flux Balance Analysis for addressing tissue‐specific inborn errors of metabolism
Authors: Liu Yanhua , Westerhoff Hans V.
Published: March 2023

The inborn error of metabolism phenylketonuria (PKU, OMIM 261600) is most often due to inactivation of phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH), which converts phenylalanine (Phe) into tyrosine (Tyr). The reduced PAH activity increases blood concentration of phenylalanine and urine levels of phenylpyruvate. Flux balance analysis (FBA) of a single‐compartment model of PKU predicts that maximum growth rate should be reduced unless Tyr is supplemented. However, the PKU phenotype is lack of development of brain function specifically, and Phe reduction rather than Tyr supplementation cures the disease. Phe and Tyr cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) through the aromatic amino acid transporter implying that the two transport reactions interact. However, FBA does not accommodate such competitive interactions. We here report on an extension to FBA that enables it to deal with such interactions. We built a three‐compartment model, made the common transport across the BBB explicit, and included dopamine and serotonin synthesis as parts of the brain function to be delivered by FBA. With these ramifications, FBA of the genome‐scale metabolic model extended to three compartments does explain that (i) the disease is brain specific, (ii) phenylpyruvate in urine is a biomarker, (iii) excess of blood‐phenylalanine rather than shortage of blood‐tyrosine causes brain pathology, and (iv) Phe deprivation is the better therapy. The new approach also suggests (v) explanations for differences in pathology between individuals with the same PAH inactivation, and (vi) interference of disease and therapy with the functioning of other neurotransmitters.
Reduced neutralizing antibody response to SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine booster dose in people living with HIV with severe immunosuppression
Authors: Corma‐Gómez Anaïs , Fernández‐Fuertes Marta , Viñuela Laura , Domínguez Carmen , Santos Marta , Fuentes‐López Ana , Rojas Almudena , Fernández‐Pérez Nieves , Martín‐Carmona Jessica , Serrano‐Conde Esther , Real Luis M. , Mendoza Joaquín , Macías Juan , Pineda Juan A. , García Federico
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the immunogenicity of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) vaccines among people living with HIV (PLWH) with severe immunosuppression, after a booster dose. The design was a case–control study nested in a prospective cohort of PLWH. All patients with CD4 cell count <200 cells/mm3 who had received additional dose of messenger RNA (mRNA) COVID‐19 vaccine, after a standard immunization scheme were included. Control group: patients age‐ and sex‐matched, with CD4 ≥ 200 cells/mm3, in the ratio of 2:1. Antibody response to a booster dose (anti‐S levels 33.8 ≥ BAU/mL) and neutralizing activity against SARS‐CoV‐2 B.1, B.1.617.2, and Omicron BA.1, BA.2, and BA.5 strains were assessed after the booster shot. Fifty‐four PLWH were included, 18 with CD4 counts < 200 cells/mm3. Fifty‐one (94%) showed response to a booster dose. Response was less frequent in PLWH with CD4 < 200 cells/mm3 than in those with CD4 counts ≥ 200 cells/mm3 (15 [83%] vs. 36 [100%], p = 0.033). In the multivariate analysis, CD4 counts ≥ 200 cells/mm3 [incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 18.1 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 16.8–19.5), p < 0.001] was associated with a higher probability of showing antibody response. Neutralization activity against SARS‐CoV‐2 B.1, B.1.617, BA.1, and BA.2 strains was significantly inferior among individuals with CD4 counts < 200 cells/mm3. In conclusion, among PLWH with CD4 counts < 200 cells/mm3, the immune response elicited by mRNA additional vaccine dose is reduced.
Comparative study on foaming and foam stability of multiple mixed systems of fluorocarbon, hydrocarbon, and amino acid surfactants
Authors: Sheng Youjie , Zhang Hanling , Song Xianming , Wang Zhenping , Wang Xu , Li Yang
Published: March 2023

This study focuses on the effect of amino acid surfactant (sodium lauroyl glutamate [SLG]) on foam properties of a mixture of fluorocarbon (FS‐50) and hydrocarbon (APG0810) surfactants. The molecular interactions, foamability, and foam stability of the surfactant solutions are systematically studied. The results show that SLG has stronger ability to lower surface tension of water compared to APG0810, but worse that than FS‐50, and to adsorb onto gas/liquid interface in mixed solutions with FS‐50 compared to APG0810. The addition of SLG increased foamability of APG0810/FS‐50 mixed solution, and decelerated foam drainage and coarsening of individual APG0810, individual FS‐50, and mixture of APG0810/FS‐50 solutions. The mixture of SLG/FS‐50 exhibited the higher foamability and foam stability than the frequently used critical component of the new developed AFFF, the mixture of APG0810/FS‐50. This study can provide guidance for the scientific application of amino acid surfactants in the development of environmentally friendly firefighting foams.
Analysis of Therapeutic Effect and Influencing Factors of Ultrasound‐Guided Radiofrequency Ablation in the Treatment of Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma
Authors: Zeng Fuqiang , Zou Bin , Chen Huabin , Luo Ming , Liu Wenmin
Published: March 2023

Objectives

The current study sought to explore the effects of ultrasound (US)‐guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) on papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) and influencing factors.

Methods

PTMC patients were assigned to observation (US‐guided RFA) and control (surgical operation) groups. A series of operation‐related indexes (operation time, intraoperative bleeding, wound closure time, hospital stay, and expenses), visual analogue scale score, lesion size, and thyroid function‐related indexes (thyroid‐stimulating hormone [TSH], free triiodothyronine*** [FT3], free thyroxine [FT4]), inflammatory factors, and thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb) were assessed and compared. After a 6‐month follow‐up period, the complications and recurrence were recorded, in addition to analyses of postoperative recurrence cumulative incidence and evaluation of recurrence risk factors.

Results

Operation‐related indexes of the observation group were relatively decreased compared with the control group. In addition, the lesion volume in the observation group was lower compared to that in the control group at the 6th month after operation, whereas the volume reduction rate was higher. There were no significant differences in regard to thyroid function‐related indexes in the observation group before/after operation. After operation, serum TSH levels and inflammatory factors, and TgAb levels were all diminished, while the FT3 and FT4 levels were both elevated in the observation group relative to the control group, and postoperative recurrence cumulative incidence was lower in the observation group. TSH and TgAb were established as the independent risk factors for recurrence after RFA in PTMC patients.

Conclusions

Our findings highlighted that US‐guided RFA exhibits better efficacy, safety, and postoperative recovery and lower recurrence risk for PTMC.
Longitudinal Ultrasound Evaluation of Dilapan‐S During Cervical Ripening
Authors: Seagraves Elizabeth , Kawakita Tetsuya , Bartholmae Marilyn , DeYoung Tracey , Waller Jerri , Barake Carole , Abuhamad Alfred
Published: March 2023

Objective

To assess the diameter change of hygroscopic rod dilation during 12 hours of cervical ripening.

Methods

This was an observational, prospective study of term women undergoing labor induction with a bishop score ≤ 6. Women were allocated into two groups (soaked gauze or no gauze) stratified by parity. Using transvaginal ultrasound, maximal rod diameters were obtained in a longitudinal plane. Measurements were taken at four pre‐specified time points (3, 6, 8, and 12 hours). All rods were removed at 12 hours from insertion. Patient satisfaction scores between the groups were assessed. To evaluate if measures were significantly different among the four time points, a generalized linear model was used. Independent t‐tests were used to compare mean rod diameter values and pain measures between the two groups. Fisher Exact tests were used to evaluate categorical satisfaction measures.

Results

Forty‐four women were recruited with a total of 178 hygroscopic rods placed. Mean rod diameters (mm) were significantly different among the four time periods (3 hour: 7.9 mm [SD 0.9]; 6 hour: 9.4 mm [SD 0.9]; 8 hour: 10.0 mm [SD 0.9]; 12 hour: 10.9 mm [SD 0.8]; P‐value <.001). After stratifying by the use of gauze, there was no difference in rod diameters at 3, 6, 8, and 12 hours respectively. There was no difference in patient satisfaction scores between the two groups.

Conclusion

The majority of hygroscopic rod dilation occurs within the first 8 hours of cervical ripening. Placement of saturated gauze does not accelerate rod dilation.
The “Double Ovary” Sign
Authors: Le Mai , Bonde Apurva , Foster Bryan
Published: March 2023

Isolated fallopian tube torsion (IFTT) is a rare subset of adnexal torsion. Timely diagnosis of IFTT is essential for preservation of the fallopian tube. However, a pre‐operative diagnosis is challenging due to nonspecific symptoms and findings on physical exam. In addition, ultrasound (US) is typically the initial imaging modality in this setting and adnexal torsion may not be considered when normal ovaries are seen. In this small case series, we introduce the “double ovary” sign, a unique observation on US characterized by two adjacent structures: the ovary and the twisted fallopian tube giving rise to an ovary‐like, cystic structure. We present three cases in which IFTT was diagnosed preoperatively.
Temperature Monitoring During Microwave Hyperthermia Based on BP‐Nakagami Distribution
Authors: Liu Zhengkai , Du Yongxing , Meng Xainwei , Li Chenlu , Zhou Liyong
Published: March 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study is to accurately monitor temperature during microwave hyperthermia. We propose a temperature estimation model BP‐Nakagami based on neural network for Nakagami distribution.

Methods

In this work, we designed the microwave hyperthermia experiment of fresh ex vivo pork tissue and phantom, collected ultrasonic backscatter data at different temperatures, modeled these data using Nakagami distribution, and calculated Nakagami distribution parameter m. A neural network model was built to train the relationship between Nakagami distribution parameter m and temperature, and a BP‐Nakagami temperature model with good fitting was obtained. The temperature model is used to draw the two‐dimensional temperature distribution map of biological tissues in microwave hyperthermia. Finally, the temperature estimated by the model is compared with the temperature measured by thermocouples.

Results

The error between the temperature estimated by the temperature model and the temperature measured by the thermocouple is within 1°C in the range of 25°C–50°C for ex vivo pork tissue, and the error between the temperature estimated by the temperature model and the temperature measured by the thermocouple is within 0.5°C in the range of 25°C–50°C for phantom.

Conclusions

The results show that the temperature estimation model proposed by us is an effective model for monitoring the internal temperature change of biological tissues.
The global contribution of seasonally migrating copepods to the biological carbon pump
Authors: Pinti Jérôme , Jónasdóttir Sigrún H. , Record Nicholas R. , Visser André W.
Published: March 2023

Every year, large numbers of zooplankton migrate from the surface ocean to depths of 500–2000 m to hibernate. Through this migration, they actively transport organic carbon to the deep ocean, where it is used to fuel metabolic needs. This active transport of carbon is thought to be highly efficient, as carbon metabolized by copepods is directly injected deep into the ocean's interior. The significance of this process in view of global carbon cycling remains an open question. Here, we focus on five representative, diapausing copepod species (Calanus finmarchicus, Calanus hyperboreus, Calanoides acutus, Calanoides natalis, and Neocalanus tonsus) distributed in the Arctic, Atlantic, Indian, and Southern Oceans. For each species, we compute both carbon injection (how much carbon is transported below the euphotic zone during zooplankton migration and left there as dissolved inorganic carbon) and carbon sequestration (the amount of carbon stored in the ocean's interior following diapausing zooplankton‐mediated injection). In total, the five species considered here contribute 0.4–0.8% of total biological carbon export, and 0.8–3.3% of total carbon sequestration mediated by the biological pump (assuming a total carbon export of ~ 10 PgC yr−1 and sequestration of ~ 1300 PgC). Including other species in this inventory would increase the contribution of diapausing copepods to the biological carbon pump, but requires more precise estimates of copepods' distribution, abundance, and metabolic requirements.
Cell Spheroid Formation on the Surface of Multi‐Block Copolymers Composed of Poly(2‐methoxyethyl acrylate) and Polyethylene Glycol
Authors: Ogiwara Naoto , Nakano Takenobu , Masuda Tsukuru , Kushiro Keiichiro , Takai Madoka
Published: March 2023

3D structured cells have great drug screening potential because they mimic in vivo tissues better than 2D cultured cells. In this study, multi‐block copolymers composed of poly(2‐methoxyethyl acrylate) (PMEA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) are developed as a new kind of biocompatible polymers. PEG imparts non‐cell adhesion while PMEA acts as an anchoring segment to prepare the polymer coating surface. The multi‐block copolymers show higher stability in water than PMEA. A specific micro‐sized swelling structure composed of a PEG chain is observed in the multi‐block copolymer film in water. A single NIH3T3‐3‐4 spheroid is formed in 3 h on the surface of the multi‐block copolymers with 8.4 wt% PEG. However, at a PEG content of 0.7 wt%, spheroid formed after 4 days. The adenosine triphosphate (ATP) activity of cells and the internal necrotic state of the spheroid change depending on PEG loading in the multi‐block copolymers. As the formation rate of cell spheroid on low‐PEG‐ratio multi‐block copolymers is slow, internal necrosis of cell spheroid is less likely to occur. Consequently, the cell spheroid formation rate by changing the PEG chain content in multi‐block copolymers is successfully controlled. These unique surfaces are suggested to be useful for 3D cell culture.
Poly(Vinylidene Fluoride‐co‐Hexafluoropropylene) Films Filled in Iron Nanoparticles for Infrared Shielding Applications
Authors: Krajewski Marcin , Witowski Andrzej M. , Liou Sz‐Chian , Maj Michał , Tokarczyk Mateusz , Wasik Dariusz
Published: March 2023

In order to use the infrared (IR) radiation shielding materials, they should take a form of thin film coatings deposited on glass/polymer substrates or be used as fillers of glass/polymer. The first approach usually suffers from several technological problems. Therefore, the second strategy gains more and more attention. Taking into account this trend, this work presents the usage of iron nanoparticles (Fe NPs) embedded into the poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF‐HFP) films as the shielding material in near‐infrared (NIR) and mid‐infrared (MIR) region. The performed investigations show that the transmittance of copolymer films decreases with increasing content of the Fe NPs inside them. It is found that the average fade of IR transmittance for 1, 2.5, 5, 10, and 50 mg of Fe NPs is about 13%, 24%, 31%, 77%, and 98%, respectively. Moreover, it is observed that the PVDF‐HFP films filled in the Fe NPs almost does not reflect the NIR and MIR radiation. Hence, the IR shielding properties of the PVDF‐HFP films can be effectively tuned by the addition of proper amount of the Fe NPs. This, in turn, shows that the PVDF‐HFP films filled in the Fe NPs constitute a great option for IR antireflective and shielding applications.
Turing–Hopf bifurcation of a diffusive Holling–Tanner model with nonlocal effect and digestion time delay
Authors: Lv Yehu
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we study the codimension‐two Turing–Hopf bifurcation of a diffusive Holling–Tanner model with nonlocal effect and digestion time delay. The stability, Turing bifurcation, Hopf bifurcation, and Turing–Hopf bifurcation of this model are first investigated. Then, we derive the algorithm for calculating the normal form of Turing–Hopf bifurcation for this model. At last, we carry out some numerical simulations to verify our theoretical analysis results. The stable positive constant steady state and the stable spatially inhomogeneous periodic solutions are found. Furthermore, the evolution process from unstable spatially inhomogeneous steady states to stable positive constant steady state, the evolution process from unstable spatially inhomogeneous steady states to stable spatially inhomogeneous periodic solutions, and the evolution process from one unstable spatially inhomogeneous periodic solution to another stable spatially inhomogeneous periodic solution are also found.
Deep learning based brain MRI registration driven by local‐signed‐distance fields of segmentation maps
Authors: Yang Yue , Hu Shunbo , Zhang Lintao , Shen Dinggang
Published: March 2023

Background

Deep learning based unsupervised registration utilizes the intensity information to align images. To avoid the influence of intensity variation and improve the registration accuracy, unsupervised and weakly‐supervised registration are combined, namely, dually‐supervised registration. However, the estimated dense deformation fields (DDFs) will focus on the edges among adjacent tissues when the segmentation labels are directly used to drive the registration progress, which will decrease the plausibility of brain MRI registration.

Purpose

In order to increase the accuracy of registration and ensure the plausibility of registration at the same time, we combine the local‐signed‐distance fields (LSDFs) and intensity images to dually supervise the registration progress. The proposed method not only uses the intensity and segmentation information but also uses the voxelwise geometric distance information to the edges. Hence, the accurate voxelwise correspondence relationships are guaranteed both inside and outside the edges.

Methods

The proposed dually‐supervised registration method mainly includes three enhancement strategies. Firstly, we leverage the segmentation labels to construct their LSDFs to provide more geometrical information for guiding the registration process. Secondly, to calculate LSDFs, we construct an LSDF‐Net, which is composed of 3D dilation layers and erosion layers. Finally, we design the dually‐supervised registration network (VMLSDF) by combining the unsupervised VoxelMorph (VM) registration network and the weakly‐supervised LSDF‐Net, to utilize intensity and LSDF information, respectively.

Results

In this paper, experiments were then carried out on four public brain image datasets: LPBA40, HBN, OASIS1, and OASIS3. The experimental results show that the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and 95% Hausdorff distance (HD) of VMLSDF are higher than those of the original unsupervised VM and the dually‐supervised registration network (VMseg) using intensity images and segmentation labels. At the same time, the percentage of negative Jacobian determinant (NJD) of VMLSDF is lower than VMseg. Our code is freely available at https://github.com/1209684549/LSDF.

Conclusions

The experimental results show that LSDFs can improve the registration accuracy compared with VM and VMseg, and enhance the plausibility of the DDFs compared with VMseg.
Alabama Bass Alter Reservoir Black Bass Species Assemblages When Introduced Outside Their Native Range
Authors: Sammons Steven M. , Dorsey Lawrence G. , Loftis C. Scott , Chrisman Preston , Scott Mark , Hammonds John , Jolley Michael , Hatcher Hunter , Odenkirk John , Damer John , Lewis Matthew R. , Peatman Eric J.
Published: March 2023

Black bass Micropterus spp. stocked outside of their native range have often been implicated in declines of native fishes, but impacts of these stockings on native congeners have been examined less commonly and almost never in reservoirs. Relative abundance and creel data were obtained from seven reservoirs (632–13,156 ha) in four southeastern states where Alabama Bass M. henshalli had been illegally stocked. Genetics data for black bass were collected in nine more reservoirs in five southeastern states where similar introductions occurred. In each case, Alabama Bass introduction was swiftly followed by sweeping changes in the black bass composition. Largemouth Bass M. salmoides relative abundance declined by 42–77% after Alabama Bass introduction in four of five reservoirs, but total black bass relative abundance was unchanged in three of them, indicating that Alabama Bass essentially replaced Largemouth Bass. Alabama Bass or their hybrids dominated the black bass genetic sample in five of nine reservoirs, and pure specimens of non-Alabama Bass species composed <50% of the sample in six of nine reservoirs. Smallmouth Bass M. dolomieu were virtually extirpated via hybridization with Alabama Bass in two of the study reservoirs, and genetically pure fish were rare in several others. These changes occurred over relatively short time intervals, often within 10 years after detection of Alabama Bass, stressing the need for continual vigilance via routine monitoring and a proactive public relations campaign to discourage and limit new introductions. The leading edge of the Alabama Bass invasion now encompasses several notable Smallmouth Bass fisheries in North Carolina and is on the border of numerous others in Tennessee, Virginia, and beyond. The spread of nonnative black bass, such as the Alabama Bass highlighted in this article, constitutes one of the greatest threats to conserving native black bass fisheries.
Evaluation of a transition to survivorship program for pediatric, adolescent, and young adult cancer patients and caregivers
Authors: Bingen Kristin , Karst Jeffrey , Anderson Lynnette , Chan Sherilynn , Jordan Anna , Morin Jocelyn , Nichols Julie , Palou‐Torres Akasha , Phelan Rachel , Schmidt Debra , Yan Ke , Hoag Jennifer A
Published: March 2023

Background

Survivorship education and anticipatory guidance represent an unmet need for pediatric, adolescent, and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors and their caregivers when treatment ends. This pilot study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a structured transition program, bridging treatment to survivorship, to reduce distress and anxiety and increase perceived preparedness for survivors and caregivers.

Procedure

Bridge to Next Steps is a two‐visit program, within 8 weeks prior to treatment completion and 7 months post treatment, which provides survivorship education, psychosocial screening, and resources. Fifty survivors (age range 1–23 years) and 46 caregivers participated. Participants completed pre‐ and post‐intervention measures: Distress Thermometer and Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) anxiety/emotional distress (ages ≥8 years), and perceived preparedness survey (ages ≥14 years). AYA survivors and caregivers completed a post‐intervention acceptability survey.

Results

Most participants (77.8%) completed both visits, and most AYA survivors (57.1%) and caregivers (76.5%) endorsed the program as helpful. Caregivers’ distress and anxiety scores decreased from pre to post intervention (p < .01). Survivors’ scores remained the same, which were low at baseline. Survivors and caregivers felt more prepared for survivorship from pre to post intervention (p = .02, <.01, respectively).

Conclusions

Bridge to Next Steps was feasible and acceptable for most participants. AYA survivors and caregivers felt more prepared for survivorship care after participation. Caregivers reported decreased anxiety and distress from pre to post Bridge, whereas survivors remained at a low level for both. Effective transition programs that better prepare and support pediatric and AYA cancer survivors and families from active treatment to survivorship care can contribute to healthy adjustment.
Sub‐5 nm 2D Semiconductor‐Based Monolayer Field‐Effect Transistor: Status and Prospects
Authors: Meena Sanju , Sharma Neetika , Jogi Jyotika
Published: March 2023

A detailed review of sub‐5 nm 2D semiconductor monolayer (ML) field‐effect transistors (FETs) is presented. A brief introduction to the fundamentals of 2D materials and their properties is provided followed by a critical review to propose an appropriate channel material from the available 2D materials. Various device simulation techniques incorporating density functional theory (DFT) and nonequilibrium Green's function (NEGF) are discussed in order to comprehend the distinctive features of 2D materials and the ballistic performance of sub‐5 nm ML 2D FETs. Relevant, recent experimental progress is also discussed. The review suggests that sub‐5 nm monolayer FETs based on 2D semiconductors like black phosphorene, WSe2N4, silicene, tellurene, arsenene, WSe2, MoTe2, MoS2, InSe, α‐CS, MoSi2N4, WS2, Bi2O2Se, GeSe, SnSe2, SnS2, AsP, GeS, MoSi2N4, BiH, SnSe2and MoTe2show excellent device performance meeting the International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductor (ITRS) requirements (2013 Version) for both high‐performance (HP) and low‐power (LP) applications in terms of on‐state current, subthreshold swing (SS), delay time, and power delay product (PDP).
A Red‐Emitting La4Ti9O24:Eu3+ Phosphor Excited by Multi‐Wavelength for Healthy Lighting
Authors: Yu Yuntao , Li Kai , Zhu Zhenzhen , Wang Shenchuang , Xia Chunmiao , Wu Honge
Published: March 2023

Herein, an excellent red‐emitting La4Ti9O24:Eu3+ phosphor is produced using eco‐friendly hydrothermal and heat treatment techniques without a high‐temperature and multiple‐sintering process. The phosphor can be excited by multiwavelength light from 382 to 533 nm, and the three main characteristic emission peaks of Eu3+ ions are located at 592, 616, and 709 nm. Its decay time measured at 616 nm is calculated to be 3.32 ms. The color coordinates of La4Ti9O24:Eu3+ phosphor excited by 393 nm ultraviolet (UV) light are (0.665, 0.335), which are near to the Commission International de L'Eclairage (CIE) of red light (0.67, 0.33). A red light‐emitting diode was fabricated by the red‐emitting La4Ti9O24:Eu3+ phosphor encapsulating on a UV‐emitting chip (λ = 395 nm), eliminating the harmful effects of blue light on human eyes. Consequently, it would be a viable source of healthy illumination for display and lighting.