bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unbalanced expression of sICOS and sPD‐1 correlates with tumor progression in gastric cancer
Authors: Lima Cecília A. C. , da Silva Luciana M. , dos Santos Rogério L. , Silva Jerônimo P. A. , Forones Nora M. , Martins Mário R. , Torres Leuridan C.
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives

T cells are central in antitumor immunity in gastric cancer (GC). The inducible costimulatory molecule (ICOS) is a T cell receptor that primarily transmits positive signals for T cell activation and is associated with poor prognosis in GC. In contrast, the costimulatory molecule programmed death 1 (PD‐1) is an inhibitory receptor related to tumor immune escape. This study aimed to analyze soluble sites and sPD‐1 levels in GC.

Methods

This study enrolled 83 GC patients and 20 healthy controls.

Results

The median survival time was 23.22 months in the GC patients. Low levels of sPD‐1 and sICOS in GC patients compared to the control group (p = 0.003; p < 0.0001, respectively). High sPD‐1 levels in stage IV patients compared to I/II and III stages groups (p = 0.008 and p = 0.0004, respectively). GC patients with stages I and II had higher levels of sICOS compared to III and IV stages (p = 0.0005 and p = 0.02, respectively). There were no significant differences in sPD‐1 and sICOS levels between Lauren subtypes.

Conclusion

These results suggest a predominance of inhibitory costimulatory signals in advanced stages of GC, facilitating tumor immune escape, as the opposite occurs in early stages, resulting in an effective antitumor T‐cell‐mediated immune response.
Brazilian Society of Surgical Oncology consensus on fertility‐sparing surgery for cervical cancer
Authors: Baiocchi Glauco , Tsunoda Audrey Tieko , Guitmann Gustavo , Vieira Marcelo Andrade , Zanvettor Paulo Henrique , Silvestre Janiceli Blanca Carlotto Hablich , Santos Marcelo Henrique , Sacramento Raquel de Maria Maués , de Araujo Eliel Oliveira , Lopes Roberto Heleno , Falcao Deraldo , Lopes Andre , Schmidt Ronaldo , Lyra Jorge Soares , Almeida Herbert Ives Barretto , Casteleins William Augusto , Cintra Georgia Fontes , Zanini Lucas Adalberto Geraldi , Reis Rosilene Jara , Coelho Eid Gonçalves , Fin Fábio Roberto , Rezende Viviane , Pançan Thais Dvulatk Marques , Vieira Sabas Carlos , Silva Jeancarllo Sousa , de Andrade Manoel Rodrigues , Carneiro Vandre Cabral Gomes , Foiato Tariane Friedrich , Ritt Guilherme Fonteles , Ianaze Gustavo Castro , Moretti‐Marques Renato , Andrade Carlos Eduardo Mattos Cunha , Maciel Luiza Freitas , Lira Daniel Lourenço , Medeiros Gustavo Mendes , Leite Amanda Lira Santos , Cucolicchio Guilherme Oliveira , Tayeh Muhamed Read Ali , Cruz Ricardo Pedrini , Guth Gustavo Ziggiatti , Leal Renato Mazon Lina Verde , Magno Valentino Antonio , Lopes Francisco Carlos Oliveira , Laporte Gustavo Andreazza , Pupo‐Nogueira Alexandre , Barros Aldo Vieira , da Cunha Juliano Rodrigues , Pessini Suzana Arenhart , Braganca Joana Froes , Figueiredo Higino Felipe , Loureiro Carlos Manoel Bulcão , Bocanegra Ronald Enrique Delgado , Affonso Renato José , Fernandes Paulo Henrique de Souza , Ribeiro Heber Salvador Castro , Batista Thales Paulo , Oliveira Alexandre Ferreira , Ribeiro Reitan
Published: January 2023

Objective

Several controversies remain on conservative management of cervical cancer. Our aim was to develop a consensus recommendation on important and novel topics of fertility‐sparing treatment of cervical cancer.

Methods

The consensus was sponsored by the Brazilian Society of Surgical Oncology (BSSO) from March 2020 to September 2020 and included a multidisciplinary team of 55 specialists. A total of 21 questions were addressed and they were assigned to specialists' groups that reviewed the literature and drafted preliminary recommendations. Further, the coordinators evaluated the recommendations that were classified by the level of evidence, and finally, they were voted by all participants.

Results

The questions included controversial topics on tumor assessment, surgical treatment, and surveillance in conservative management of cervical cancer. The two topics with lower agreement rates were the role of minimally invasive approach in radical trachelectomy and parametrial preservation. Additionally, only three recommendations had <90% of agreement (fertility preservation in Stage Ib2, anti‐stenosis device, and uterine transposition).

Conclusions

As very few clinical trials have been developed in surgery for cervical cancer, most recommendations were supported by low levels of evidence. We addressed important and novel topics in conservative management of cervical cancer and our study may contribute to literature.
PD‐L1 expression in gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancer patients treated with perioperative chemotherapy
Authors: Ribeiro Héber S. C. , Menezes Jacqueline N. , da Costa Wilson L. , F. de Jesus Victor Hugo , Diniz Alessandro L. , Godoy André L. , de Farias Igor Correia , Torres Silvio M. , Neotti Tatiane , Mello Celso A. L. , Begnami Maria Dirlei F. S. , Dias‐Neto Emmanuel , Riechelmann Rachel P. , Fernandez Coimbra Felipe José
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives

The incidence, predictive, and prognostic impact of programmed cell death (PD‐L1) expression in gastric (GC) and gastroesophageal junction tumors (GEJC) treated with perioperative chemotherapy is poorly understood. We aimed to assess PD‐L1 expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in both pre and posttreatment specimens evaluating its impact on pathological response and survival outcomes.

Methods

Retrospective cohort of patients with GC and GEJ tumors treated in a single western cancer center between 2007 and 2017. PD‐L1 expression was assessed by IHC before and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, in surgical samples, and reported as combined positive score (CPS). CPS > 1% was tested for its association with pathological response and overall survival (OS).

Results

We were able to assess PD‐L1 expression in at least one tissue sample from 155 subjects. PD‐L1 positivity rate was 20%. In 74 paired samples, a 21% discordance between PD‐L1 expression in biopsy sample and surgical specimen was observed. With a median follow‐up period of 60.3 months, 5‐years disease‐free survival was 60.5% with a median OS not reached. PD‐L1 expression was neither associated with pathological response or survival outcomes.

Conclusions

PD‐L1 expression in the setting of locally advanced GC tumors was relatively low and can vary considering the tissue sample analyzed. This expression had no association with survival or pathological response in this population.
Date palm cultivation: A review of soil and environmental conditions and future challenges
Authors: Alotaibi Khaled D. , Alharbi Hattan A. , Yaish Mahmoud W. , Ahmed Ibrahim , Alharbi Sulaiman Almwarai , Alotaibi Fahad , Kuzyakov Yakov
Published: January 2023

Date palm (Phoenix dactyliferaL.) fruit is one of the ancient crops that have been cultivated for thousands of years in the arid regions of the Middle East and North Africa. Its nutritional and economic importance has extended the cultivation to other countries with suitable environmental conditions. Despite the large expansion in date palm cultivation and the associated improvement in its yield and quality over the last few decades, challenges remain in its cultivation and sustainability. Here, we review: (1) the current status of date palm cultivation, (2) the key environmental and soil‐related factors influencing its cultivation and productivity, and (3) the challenges under global change in addition to assessing the future potentials for improvements and sustainability. The global production of date palm has increased by 18% during the last ten years, reaching 8.53 million tons, on a total area of 1.11 million ha. Water scarcity and salinity stresses are the major constraints affecting date palm productivity, which is a serious issue in arid regions, where water resources are becoming depleted and soil is becoming increasingly salinized due to limited rainfall, high evapotranspiration, and incorrect irrigation. Although date palm can tolerate salinity up to 12 dS m−1, accumulation of salts in soil strongly reduces the yield. The main cultivation areas are dominated by soils of sandy texture with high pH and a low capacity for water and nutrient retention. Organic fertilizers increase water and nutrient retention. There is a lack of long‐term studies (e.g., ≥10 years) designed to monitor date palm cultivar responses to abiotic stresses as well as to nutrition and management practices. Future challenges facing date palm cultivation mainly include water shortages, extremely high temperatures, salinity, and soil degradation, as well as diseases and pests. The implementation of efficient management practices, including modern irrigation systems, selecting cultivars most suitable for the local environmental conditions, and increasing soil water and nutrient retention, help to sustain date palm cultivation and productivity.
Experimental study of corrosion behavior on 7005 aluminum alloy under acidic 3.5 wt% NaCl environment
Authors: Wang Guan , Li Xinhui , Kou Linyuan , Ma Yongxiang , Liu Hongping , Zhu Xuejun , Shang Xin
Published: January 2023

The corrosion failure behavior of 7005 aluminum alloy is a critical issue in the durability studies of vessels operating. In this study, the corrosion behavior of aluminum alloy 7005‐T4 in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution with pH 2, pH 4, and pH 6 was investigated by surface observation, electrochemical, and mechanical testing. The experiment results that the corrosion susceptibility is more at a solution of pH 2 compared with that at pH 4 and pH 6. The maximum depth and width of corrosion pits increase linearly with aggravation of corrosion. In addition, the probability distribution of the corrosion pit depth in each corrosion environment, which generally follows a Lognormal distribution, is statistically analyzed. The tendency of stress−strain curves at the elastic−plastic transition stage indicated that corrosion has an effect on mechanical performance, and revealed that corrosion promotes the advance of the plastic deformation stage. Fractography indicated the presence of a quasi‐cleavage zone beneath the corrosion layer. The results provide theoretical guidance for safe service and design guidelines for 7005 aluminum alloy.
Lyotropic Nematic Phases of Isotropic Nanoparticles via Semiflexible Polymer Ligands
Authors: Wong Jessie , Toader Violeta , Reven Linda
Published: January 2023

Lyotropic liquid crystalline (LC) nanomaterials are normally achieved through particle shape anisotropy. Herein, it is shown that lyotropic nematic rather than cubic phases are produced from spherical nanoparticles (NPs) with semi‐flexible polymer ligands. ZrO2 nanocrystals (4 nm dia.) are coated with a dense shell of poly(hexyl isocyanate) (PHIC), a helical rod‐like polymer that forms lyotropic LC phases in a range of organic solvents. Solvent casted NPs with PHIC ligands above the persistence length form linear assemblies, separated by a characteristic distance related to the chain length while NPs with shorter, rigid rod PHIC ligands pack hexagonally. Concentrated NP‐PHIC dispersions present nematic textures similar to the free PHIC nematic solutions but at lower critical concentrations, widening the isotropic‐nematic biphasic region. 2H NMR spectra of the NPs dispersed in a deuterated solvent display quadrupolar splittings that increase with NP concentration, showing that the PHIC ligands are magnetically aligned. The high degree of orientation order is evidence that splaying of the ligand shell transforms the spherical NPs to rod‐like shapes that assemble to produce nematic lyotropic LC phases and linear NP arrays. This approach to creating anisotropic assemblies can be extended to other types of spherical NPs and semiflexible polymers.
Realization of the inverse scattering transform method for the Korteweg–de Vries equation
Authors: Grudsky Sergei M. , Kravchenko Vladislav V. , Torba Sergii M.
Published: January 2023

A method for practical realization of the inverse scattering transform method for the Korteweg–de Vries equation is proposed. It is based on analytical representations for Jost solutions and for integral kernels of transformation operators obtained recently. The representations have the form of functional series in which the first coefficient plays a crucial role both in solving the direct scattering and the inverse scattering problems. The direct scattering problem reduces to computation of a number of the coefficients following a simple recurrent integration procedure with a posterior calculation of scattering data  by well known formulas. The inverse scattering problem reduces to a system of linear algebraic equations from which the first component of the solution vector leads to the recovery of the potential. We prove the applicability of the finite section method to the system of linear algebraic equations and discuss numerical aspects of the proposed method. Numerical examples are given, which reveal the accuracy and speed of the method.
A Review on Dietary Flavonoids as Modulators of the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Duan Namin , Hu Xiaohui , Zhou Rui , Li Yuru , Wu Wenhui , Liu Ning
Published: January 2023

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is the local environment where malignant cells strive and survive, composed of cancer cells and their surroundings, regulating essential tumor survival, and promotion functions. Dietary flavonoids are abundantly present in common vegetables and fruits and exhibit good anti‐cancer activities, which significantly inhibit tumorigenesis by targeting TME constituents and their interaction with cancer cells. This review aims to synthesize information concerning the modulation of TME by dietary flavonoids, as well as to provide insights into the molecular basis of its potential anti‐tumor activities, with an emphasis on its ability to control intracellular signaling cascades that regulate the TME processes, involving cell proliferation, invasion and migration, continuous angiogenesis, and immune inflammation. This study will provide a theoretical basis for the development of the leading compound targeting TME for anti‐cancer therapies from these dietary flavonoids.
The United States Department of Energy and National Institutes of Health Collaboration: Medical Care Advances via Discovery in Physical Sciences
Authors: Keppel Cynthia , Weisenberger Andrew , Atanasijevic Tatjana , Wang Shumin , Zubal George , Buchsbaum Jeffrey , Brechbiel Martin , Capala Jacek , Escorcia Freddy , Obcemea Ceferino , Boehnlein Amber , Heyes Graham , Bourne Philip , Cherry Simon , Colby Eric , El Fakhri Georges , Gillo Jehanne , Gropler Robert , Gueye Paul , Tourassi Georgia , Peggs Steve , Woody Craig
Published: January 2023

Over several months, representatives from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science and National Institutes of Health (NIH) had a number of meetings that lead to the conclusion that innovations in the Nation's health care could be realized by more directed interactions between NIH and DOE. It became clear that the expertise amassed and instrumentation advances developed at the DOE physical science laboratories to enable cutting‐edge research in particle physics could also feed innovation in medical healthcare. To meet their scientific mission, the DOE laboratories created advances in such technologies as particle beam generation, radioisotope production, high‐energy particle detection and imaging, superconducting particle accelerators, superconducting magnets, cryogenics, high‐speed electronics, artificial intelligence, and big data. To move forward, NIH and DOE initiated the process of convening a joint workshop which occurred on July 12th and 13th, 2021. This Special Report presents a summary of the findings of the collaborative workshop and introduces the goals of the next one.
Image‐based isogeometric twins of lattices with virtual image correlation for varying cross‐section beams
Authors: Passieux Jean‐Charles , Bouclier Robin , Weeger Oliver
Published: January 2023

Cellular materials, in particular metal or polymer foams and beam lattices, are characterized by a complex architecture where the material is concentrated in slender struts. This study is concerned with the construction of numerically efficient sample‐specific digital twin for the analysis and characterization of the mechanical behavior of such meta‐materials. A method to build an explicit, light, and analysis‐suitable isogeometric beam model directly from digital images is proposed. More precisely, as a main contribution, the virtual image correlation method is extended to the case of multiple interconnected beams with varying cross‐sections. Special care is also given to the initialization for better efficiency and robustness. Synthetic and real examples of increasing complexity, that is, curved beams, lattices, and foams, are presented to account for the performance of the developed workflow from digital images to an isogeometric twin for mechanical modeling and simulation.
Functional Outcome After Simultaneous Vestibular Schwannoma Resection and Cochlear Implantation With Intraoperative Cochlear Nerve Monitoring
Authors: Gadenstaetter Anselm Joseph , Auinger Alice Barbara , Gerlitz Matthias , Riss Dominik , Dahm Valerie , Yildiz Erdem , Roessler Karl , Matula Christian , Arnoldner Christoph
Published: January 2023

Objective

Electrically evoked auditory brainstem response audiometry has emerged as a suitable option to intraoperatively assess cochlear nerve function during vestibular schwannoma resection. This study aimed to analyze the functional outcome and implant usage of patients with preserved auditory nerve responses after simultaneous translabyrinthine schwannoma resection and cochlear implantation.

Study Design

Prospective study.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Methods

Patients with unilateral sporadic vestibular schwannoma underwent translabyrinthine tumor resection. Intraoperatively, electrically evoked auditory brainstem response audiometry was performed before and after tumor removal. Cochlear implantation was carried out if positive responses were detected after tumor removal indicating cochlear nerve function. Postoperatively, patients were biannually followed‐up to assess aided sound field audiometry and word recognition as well as implant usage.

Results

Overall, 26 patients with vestibular schwannoma underwent translabyrinthine schwannoma resection. Out of these patients, 15 had positive cochlear nerve responses after tumor removal and concurrently received a cochlear implant. In 13 patients with histologically confirmed vestibular schwannoma, hearing improved by 23.7 ± 33.2 decibels and word recognition by 25.0 ± 42.4% over a mean follow‐up period of 18 months. Overall, 12 included patients were regular cochlear implant users.

Conclusion

Patients with vestibular schwannoma can benefit substantially from cochlear implantation. Intraoperative assessment of cochlear nerve function using electrically evoked auditory brainstem response audiometry can help to better identify individuals eligible for simultaneous vestibular schwannoma resection and cochlear implantation.
A GC–MS and LC–HRMS perspective on the chemotaxonomic investigation of the natural hybrid Origanum × lirium and its parents, O. vulgare subsp. hirtum and O. scabrum
Authors: Petrakis Eleftherios A. , Mikropoulou Eleni V. , Mitakou Sofia , Halabalaki Maria , Kalpoutzakis Eleftherios
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The genus Origanum L. (Lamiaceae) is widespread in the Mediterranean region. However, approximately 75% of the species are only encountered in the eastern part. Out of these, a total of nine species (11 taxa) and three natural hybrids occur in Greece. Nevertheless, so far, there is no consensus regarding their precise botanical classification in the literature. In fact, the taxon Origanum × lirium has been proposed both as a separate species as well as natural hybrid between Origanum vulgare subsp. hirtum and Origanum scabrum.

Objectives

In this scope, the aim of the current study is to shed light on the matter through the investigation of the chemical composition of both the essential oils and the polar extracts of the mentioned taxa, collected from different geographical regions of Greece.

Results

As it was demonstrated by both gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) and liquid chromatography–high‐resolution mass spectrometry (LC–HRMS) data, and highlighted by our comparative analysis, it can be stipulated that Origanum × lirium shares its chemotype to a large extent with its parent species concerning both volatile and polar constituents. Additionally, geographical origin conditions stood out as a key factor influencing their chemical composition.

Conclusion

Altogether, the present work provides useful information on the chemical composition of the taxa under investigation, while our findings support the opinion that Origanum × lirium should be considered not as a separate species, but rather as a hybrid on the way to becoming a species.
Reduced gamma oscillation during visual processing of the mother's face in children with autism spectrum disorder: A pilot study
Authors: Hasegawa Chiaki , Ikeda Takashi , Yoshimura Yuko , Kumazaki Hirokazu , Saito Daisuke N. , Yaoi Ken , An Kyung‐Min , Takahashi Tetsuya , Hirata Masayuki , Asada Minoru , Kikuchi Mitsuru
Published: January 2023

Aim

This study aimed to investigate gamma oscillations related to face processing of children with autism spectrum disorders and typically developed children using magnetoencephalography.

Methods

We developed stimuli that included naturalistic real‐time eye‐gaze situations between participants and their mothers. Eighteen young children with autism spectrum disorders (62−97 months) and 24 typically developed children (61−79 months) were included. The magnetoencephalography data were analyzed in the bilateral banks of the superior temporal sulcus, fusiform gyrus, and pericalcarine cortex for frequency ranges 30–59 and 61–90 Hz. The gamma oscillation normalized values were calculated to compare the face condition (children gazing at mother's face) and control measurements (baseline) using the following formula: (face − control)/(face + control).

Results

The results revealed significant differences in gamma oscillation normalized values in the low gamma band (30–59 Hz) in the right banks of the superior temporal sulcus, right fusiform gyrus, and right pericalcarine cortex between children with autism spectrum disorders and typically developed children. Furthermore, there were significant differences in gamma oscillation normalized values in the high gamma band (61–90 Hz) in the right banks of the superior temporal sulcus, bilateral fusiform gyrus, and bilateral pericalcarine cortex between the groups.

Conclusion

This report is the first magnetoencephalography study revealing atypical face processing in young children with autism spectrum disorders using relevant stimuli between participants and their mothers. Our naturalistic paradigm provides a useful assessment of social communication traits and a valuable insight into the underlying neural mechanisms in children with autism spectrum disorders.
Improving emotion regulation in breast cancer patients in the early survivorship period: Efficacy of a brief ecologically boosted group intervention
Authors: Merckaert Isabelle , Waroquier Pauline , Caillier Marie , Verkaeren Oriane , Righes Sadio , Liénard Aurore , Libert Yves , Kristanto Paulus , Razavi Darius
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study reports the short‐ and mid‐term benefits of an eight‐session emotion and self‐regulation group intervention ecologically boosted through daily app‐based prompts. The intervention was designed for breast cancer patients in the early survivorship period meeting criteria for clinical levels of psychological symptoms.

Methods

Patients were randomly assigned to the immediate intervention arm (n = 61; intervention received immediately) or to the delayed intervention arm (n = 59; intervention received 5 months later). Psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depressive symptoms, emotional distress, fear of cancer recurrence (FCR), worry, and intrusive thoughts were assessed through questionnaires. Emotion regulation was assessed in a dynamic emotion regulation task and in everyday life. Assessments were completed at baseline (T1), 5 months (T2) and 10 months (T3) later.

Results

Treated patients reported lower levels of worry and intrusive thoughts. They improved their ability to down‐regulate the intensity of their negative emotions when exposed to cancer‐related triggers in the dynamic emotion regulation task. They reported fewer and less intense negative emotions and more positive emotions in their everyday life. Benefits were maintained 5 months later, except for positive emotions in everyday life.

Conclusions

The results showed that focusing on emotion regulation is a relevant approach in the treatment of psychological symptoms for breast cancer patients in the early survivorship period meeting criteria for clinical levels of psychological symptoms. The intervention led to changes in patients' dynamic and everyday life emotion regulation. Consolidation sessions may be needed to sustain benefits in positive emotions and to increase the effect sizes.
Immediate and delayed movement of resistant and susceptible adults of Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) after short exposures to phosphine
Authors: Morrison William R , Brabec Daniel , Bruce Alexander , Arthur Frank H , Athanassiou Christos G
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

During the last decade, the evaluation of certain behavioral attributes has been utilized as an indicator of resistance to phosphine. In this context, an underappreciated challenge may be the development of behavioral traits that are related with resistance to phosphine such as the movement to refugia and recovery of stored product insects after short exposures. Thus, the aim of the current study was to track the movement of phosphine‐resistant and ‐susceptible adults of the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), which is a major pest of stored products, after brief exposures to phosphine. Exposures were followed for extended intervals to assess the recovery patterns and how those patterns are related to known resistance to phosphine. A video‐tracking procedure coupled with Ethovision software was used to assess movement after exposure.

RESULTS

Overall, we found baseline movement was less for phosphine‐resistant T. castaneum, suggesting resistance comes at a considerable fitness cost. In the presence of phosphine (1000 or 3000 ppm), there was a much greater reduction in movement for phosphine‐susceptible than phosphine‐resistant T. castaneum adults immediately after brief 5‐min exposures. Twenty‐four hours later, these effects were more variable and less apparent, regardless of the susceptibility level.

CONCLUSIONS

The initial knockdown associated with successful fumigation may just be a temporary state whereafter insects shortly resume movement and may be able to seek out refugia from phosphine, thereby promoting the development of resistance. Our results strengthen a growing consensus that it is the speed to knockdown that truly matters, with quick knockdown indicating slow recovery and a reduced likelihood for the occurrence of resistance. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Estimating minimum required dwell time for the heat sealing of talc containing polypropylene/low‐density polyethylene packaging films
Authors: Ilhan Ilknur , van Drongelen Martin , ten Klooster Roland , Gibson Ian
Published: January 2023

Dwell time is one of the main parameters influencing heat seal quality and process efficiency in flexible packaging. In this study, the rheological behaviour of polypropylene (PP)/low‐density polyethylene (PE‐LD)‐based compound films containing different ratios of talc was examined. The minimum dwell time required to supply a sufficient sealing was estimated based on heat conduction time and reptation time. Reptation is a rheological concept used to described the behaviour of a polymer melt, and the reptation time is the time required for a molecule to escape from its surrounded entangled structure. The results showed that increased levels of talc are associated with elevated complex viscosities, storage and loss modulus as well as an increased seal strength. The estimated minimum required dwell time at the seal initiation temperature (SIT) dropped sharply with the initial introduction of 10 wt% talc. However, increasing the talc ratio to 30 wt% did not create any major change in the estimated time value. Also, observed T‐peel strength values for 0.1 and 0.5 s dwell time at SIT confirmed the predicted minimum required dwell time values. On the other hand, when the seal temperature is increased to the higher end of the operation window, time estimations did not match with the observed seal strengths. Here, the melting already starts and the molecules diffuse up to a certain distance before the interface temperature reaches the desired level. Recalculation of the average diffusion distance by including this pre‐melting situation can present a better approach for the temperatures above SIT. When the molecules diffused around halfway along the sealant thickness observed, seal strengths reached a sufficient level (2.5 N/25 mm) for both SIT and the highest end of the operation window. In conclusion, it has been revealed that knowing the reptation time and the required time for the heat conduction during the sealing process can help to predict the minimum required dwell time to achieve quality sealing, especially at low sealing temperatures. Additional surface characterizations also helped to elaborate on the influence of changing insoluble filler ratio on the seal initiation properties. It has been showed that the added talc increases the surface free energy and supplies easier wetting at the seal interface. Therefore, adding talc or a similar insoluble filler can help to make the heat sealing process more efficient.
Empyema necessitans: After recent thoracostomy in an immunocompromised patient
Authors: Almeida Borges Joana , Madama Daniela
Published: January 2023

Key message

This paper consists of a clinical image of an unexpected complication of a pleural space infection that dissects through the pleura into the soft tissues of the chest in an immunocompromised patient.
Construction of Nitrogen‐Doped Biphasic Transition‐Metal Sulfide Nanosheet Electrode for Energy‐Efficient Hydrogen Production via Urea Electrolysis
Authors: Xie Hui , Feng Yafei , He Xiaoyue , Zhu Yin , Li Ziyun , Liu Huanhuan , Zeng Suyuan , Qian Qizhu , Zhang Genqiang
Published: January 2023

Urea‐assisted hybrid water splitting is a promising technology for hydrogen (H2) production, but the lack of cost‐effective electrocatalysts hinders its extensive application. Herein, it is reported that Nitrogen‐doped Co9S8/Ni3S2 hybrid nanosheet arrays on nickel foam (N‐Co9S8/Ni3S2/NF) can act as an active and robust bifunctional catalyst for both urea oxidation reaction (UOR) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), which could drive an ultrahigh current density of 400 mA cm−2 at a low working potential of 1.47 V versus RHE for UOR, and gives a low overpotential of 111 mV to reach 10 mA cm−2 toward HER. Further, a hybrid water electrolysis cell utilizing the synthesized N‐Co9S8/Ni3S2/NF electrode as both the cathode and anode displays a low cell voltage of 1.40 V to reach 10 mA cm−2, which can be powered by an AA battery with a nominal voltage of 1.5 V. The density functional theory (DFT) calculations decipher that N‐doped heterointerfaces can synergistically optimize Gibbs free energy of hydrogen and urea, thus accelerating the catalytic kinetics of HER and UOR. This work significantly advances the development of the promising cobalt–nickel‐based sulfide as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for energy‐saving electrolytic H2 production and urea‐rich innocent wastewater treatment.
Magnetically Driven Self‐Degrading Zinc‐Containing Cystine Microrobots for Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Ussia Martina , Urso Mario , Kratochvilova Monika , Navratil Jiri , Balvan Jan , Mayorga‐Martinez Carmen C. , Vyskocil Jan , Masarik Michal , Pumera Martin
Published: January 2023

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed tumor disease in men, and its treatment is still a big challenge in standard oncology therapy. Magnetically actuated microrobots represent the most promising technology in modern nanomedicine, offering the advantage of wireless guidance, effective cell penetration, and non‐invasive actuation. Here, new biodegradable magnetically actuated zinc/cystine‐based microrobots for in situ treatment of prostate cancer cells are reported. The microrobots are fabricated via metal‐ion‐mediated self‐assembly of the amino acid cystine encapsulating superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) during the synthesis, which allows their precise manipulation by a rotating magnetic field. Inside the cells, the typical enzymatic reducing environment favors the disassembly of the aminoacidic chemical structure due to the cleavage of cystine disulfide bonds and disruption of non‐covalent interactions with the metal ions, as demonstrated by in vitro experiments with reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH). In this way, the cystine microrobots served for site‐specific delivery of Zn2+ ions responsible for tumor cell killing via a “Trojan horse effect”. This work presents a new concept of cell internalization exploiting robotic systems’ self‐degradation, proposing a step forward in non‐invasive cancer therapy.
Asymmetric Organocatalysis Under Mechanochemical Conditions
Authors: Némethová Viktória , Krištofíková Dominika , Mečiarová Mária , Šebesta Radovan
Published: January 2023

Asymmetric organocatalysis is a robust methodology providing access to numerous valuable compounds while having green chemistry principles in mind. The realization of organocatalytic transformation under solvent‐free mechanochemical conditions brings additional benefits in terms of yields, selectivities, and, last but not least overall improved sustainability. This overview describes developments in the use of mechanochemistry as a vehicle for asymmetric organocatalytic transformations. The material is organized according to main catalytic activation modes, starting with covalent activation and proceeding to non‐covalent activation modes. The advantages of mechanochemical organocatalytic reactions are particularly highlighted, but in some cases also, limitations are mentioned. Possibilities for target compound synthesis are also discussed.
Facilitating Students' Learning of a Target Construction Through Teacher Interactional Resources in EFL Kindergarten Classrooms
Authors: Tozlu Kılıç Emel , Balaman Ufuk
Published: January 2023

This paper presents research‐led responses to two central questions concerning English as a foreign language (EFL) learning in kindergartens, namely how do the teachers facilitate EFL learning? and how does the impact of certain teacher interactional resources on learning become observable in interaction? Previous research showed that classroom routines facilitate learning, and learners' increased participation through repeating teacher turns is considered as evidence for learning. Using multimodal conversation analysis to examine video‐recorded, face‐masked kindergarten EFL classrooms during the pandemic, we argue that classroom routines transcend repeating teacher turns and create space for learners' contextually meaningful use of target constructions when the teacher introduces such constructions by strategically deploying embodied explanations, translanguaging, choral repetition, understanding checks, repairing dispreferred responses, and designedly incomplete utterances. We adopt a longitudinal perspective to trace one construction in particular, a little bit, and describe how the construction is introduced and routinely circulated by the teacher, and eventually added to a learner's interactional repertoire. The findings offer rich pedagogical implications for EFL kindergarten teachers.
Numerical analysis of Stefan blowing viscous fluid flowing above a stretching/shrinking disk
Authors: Rauf Amar , Mushtaq Tahir , Ansari Munib Qasim , Shehzad Sabir A. , Shehzad Iram , Abbas Z.
Published: January 2023

An incompressible, axi‐symmetric and magnetized viscous fluid flowing above a rotating disk is addressed. The disk can be stretch/shrink with a constant rate along the radial direction. The variable fluid features such as the viscosity, thermal conductivity and mass diffusion are considered in the flow governing equations. Two different cases of mass blowing/suction are considered. In the first case, the injection/suction is considered through the disk surface. The second case of injection/suction is through the surface of the disk by concentration gradient named as the Stefan effect. Similarity variables are accomplished to transform the governing system of partial differential equations into an ordinary one's. The resulting flow model is solved by bvp4c solver. The obtained physical parameters are discussed on velocity, thermal and concentration fields. For the better understanding of the flow phenomenon, the three‐dimensional flow visualization and its two‐dimensional contours against the physical parameters are sketched. The Nusselt and Sherwood numbers and skin‐friction against distinct constraints are calculated. It is observed that the suction parameter decreased the radial velocity curves for the stretching disk, while the velocity profiles are modified along radial direction in case shrinking disk against the increased suction parameter. The skin‐friction coefficient is enhanced for mass injection/suction and Stefan blowing/suction cases against the higher magnetic parameter values. The enhancement in variable thermal conductivity causes a reduction in local‐Nusselt number as well as the Sherwood number.
Black hole information recovery in JT gravity
Authors: Gyongyosi Zsolt , Hollowood Timothy J. , Kumar S. Prem , Legramandi Andrea , Talwar Neil
Published: January 2023

Abstract

We consider the issue of information recovery for an object carrying energy and entropy into a black hole using the generalized entropy formalism, in the context of JT gravity where the backreaction problem can be solved exactly. We verify the main aspects of the Hayden-Preskill scenario but with some refinements. We show that the information is encoded in the Hawking radiation in a redundant way, as expected for a quantum error correcting code. We show how quantum extremal surfaces associated to information recovery have the form of a python’s lunch and thereby show that the complexity of decoding is exponential in a combination of the entropy shift of the black hole and the entropy of the object. We also show that an infalling observer must have a smooth experience at the horizon and we calculate their endurance proper time inside the black hole before they are radiated out.
Supermoduli and PCOs at genus two
Authors: Wang Charles , Yin Xi
Published: January 2023

Abstract

We illustrate the relation between supermoduli integration and picture changing operators (PCOs) particularly concerning the role of vertical integration, in the context of superstring vacuum amplitudes, by an explicit comparison of different parameterizations of the supermoduli space of genus two super Riemann surfaces.
Search for lepton flavor violating decay at FASER
Authors: Araki Takeshi , Asai Kento , Otono Hidetoshi , Shimomura Takashi , Takubo Yosuke
Published: January 2023

Abstract

FASER is one of the promising experiments which search for long-lived particles beyond the Standard Model. In this paper, we consider charged lepton flavor violation (CLFV) via a light and weakly interacting boson and discuss the detectability by FASER. We focus on four types of CLFV interactions, i.e., the scalar-, pseudoscalar-, vector-, and dipole-type interaction, and calculate the sensitivity of FASER to each CLFV interaction. We show that, with the setup of FASER2, a wide region of the parameter space can be explored. Particularly, it is found that FASER2 has a sensitivity to very small coupling regions in which the rare muon decays, such as μ → eγ, cannot place bounds, and that there is a possibility to detect CLFV decays of the new light bosons.
Increase of c-FOS promoter transcriptional activity by the dual leucine zipper kinase
Authors: Köster Kyra-Alexandra , Duque Escobar Jorge , Fietkau Anja , Toledo Regina , Oetjen Elke
Published: January 2023

The dual leucine zipper kinase (DLK) and the ubiquitously expressed transcription factor c-FOS have important roles in beta-cell proliferation and function. Some studies in neuronal cells suggest that DLK can influence c-FOS expression. Given that c-FOS is mainly regulated at the transcriptional level, the effect of DLK on c-FOS promoter activity was investigated in the beta-cell line HIT. The methods used in this study are the following: Luciferase reporter gene assays, immunoblot analysis, CRISPR-Cas9-mediated genome editing, and real-time quantitative PCR. In the beta-cell line HIT, overexpressed DLK increased c-FOS promoter activity twofold. Using 5′-,3′-promoter deletions, the promoter regions from − 348 to − 339 base pairs (bp) and from a − 284 to − 53 bp conferred basal activity, whereas the promoter region from − 711 to − 348 bp and from − 53 to + 48 bp mediated DLK responsiveness. Mutation of the cAMP response element within the promoter prevented the stimulatory effect of DLK. Treatment of HIT cells with KCl and the adenylate cyclase activator forskolin increased c-FOS promoter transcriptional activity ninefold. Since the transcriptional activity of those promoter fragments activated by KCl and forskolin was decreased by DLK, DLK might interfere with KCl/forskolin-induced signaling. In a newly generated, genome-edited HIT cell line lacking catalytically active DLK, c-Fos mRNA levels were reduced by 80% compared to the wild-type cell line. DLK increased c-FOS promoter activity but decreased stimulated transcriptional activity, suggesting that DLK fine-tunes c-FOS promoter-dependent gene transcription. Moreover, at least in HIT cells, DLK is required for FOS mRNA expression.
Defunctioning stoma before neoadjuvant treatment or resection of endoscopically obstructing rectal cancer
Authors: Sandén Gustav , Svensson Johan , Ljuslinder Ingrid , Rutegård Martin
Published: January 2023

Aim

To investigate whether patients with endoscopically untraversable rectal cancer may benefit from a defunctioning stoma created before neoadjuvant therapy or resectional surgery.

Methods

This retrospective study comprise patients diagnosed with rectal cancer during 2007–2020 in Region Västerbotten, Sweden. The primary outcome was time between diagnosis and any treatment, while survival and the incidence of complications were secondary outcomes. Excluded were patients without endoscopic obstruction, patients already having a stoma, patients with recurrent disease, palliative patients, and patients receiving a stoma shortly after diagnosis due to any urgent bowel-related complication. Data were obtained from the Swedish Colorectal Cancer Registry and medical records. Kaplan–Meier failure curves were drawn, and a multivariable Cox regression model was employed for confounding adjustment.

Results

Out of 843 patients, 57 remained after applying exclusion criteria. Some 12/57 (21%) patients received a planned stoma before treatment, and the remainder received upfront neoadjuvant therapy or surgery. Median time to any treatment was 51 days for the planned stoma group and 36 days for the control group, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 0.28 (95% confidence interval: 0.12–0.64). Complications occurred at a rate of 5/12 (42%) and 7/45 (16%) in the planned stoma group and control group, respectively. Survival was similar between groups.

Conclusion

A planned stoma results in treatment delay, but it remains unclear whether this is clinically relevant. Complications were more common in the planned stoma group, although the data are limited. While larger studies are needed, it seems feasible to avoid defunctioning stomas even in endoscopically obstructing rectal cancers.
The endothelial-enriched lncRNA LINC00607 mediates angiogenic function
Authors: Boos Frederike , Oo James A. , Warwick Timothy , Günther Stefan , Izquierdo Ponce Judit , Lopez Melina , Rafii Diba , Buchmann Giulia , Pham Minh Duc , Msheik Zahraa S. , Li Tianfu , Seredinski Sandra , Haydar Shaza , Kashefiolasl Sepide , Plate Karl H. , Behr Rüdiger , Mietsch Matthias , Krishnan Jaya , Pullamsetti Soni S. , Bibli Sofia-Iris , Hinkel Rabea , Baker Andrew H. , Boon Reinier A. , Schulz Marcel H. , Wittig Ilka , Miller Francis J. , Brandes Ralf P. , Leisegang Matthias S.
Published: January 2023

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can act as regulatory RNAs which, by altering the expression of target genes, impact on the cellular phenotype and cardiovascular disease development. Endothelial lncRNAs and their vascular functions are largely undefined. Deep RNA-Seq and FANTOM5 CAGE analysis revealed the lncRNA LINC00607 to be highly enriched in human endothelial cells. LINC00607 was induced in response to hypoxia, arteriosclerosis regression in non-human primates, post-atherosclerotic cultured endothelial cells from patients and also in response to propranolol used to induce regression of human arteriovenous malformations. siRNA knockdown or CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of LINC00607 attenuated VEGF-A-induced angiogenic sprouting. LINC00607 knockout in endothelial cells also integrated less into newly formed vascular networks in an in vivo assay in SCID mice. Overexpression of LINC00607 in CRISPR knockout cells restored normal endothelial function. RNA- and ATAC-Seq after LINC00607 knockout revealed changes in the transcription of endothelial gene sets linked to the endothelial phenotype and in chromatin accessibility around ERG-binding sites. Mechanistically, LINC00607 interacted with the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling protein BRG1. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of BRG1 in HUVEC followed by CUT&RUN revealed that BRG1 is required to secure a stable chromatin state, mainly on ERG-binding sites. In conclusion, LINC00607 is an endothelial-enriched lncRNA that maintains ERG target gene transcription by interacting with the chromatin remodeler BRG1 to ultimately mediate angiogenesis.