bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FOXN3 Downregulation in Colorectal Cancer Enhances Tumor Cell Stemness by Promoting EP300‐Mediated Epigenetic Upregulation of SOX12
Authors: Xu Yanjie , Xie Ke , Li Ling , Li Zhong , Lu Qicheng , Feng Jin
Published: November 2024

Cancer stemness plays a crucial role in promoting the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). Forkhead box N3 (FOXN3) is a tumor suppressor protein. Herein, we investigated the role of FOXN3 in the regulation of CRC cell stemness. Cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion were assessed utilizing cell counting kit‐8 assay, 5‐ethynyl‐20‐deoxyuridine assay, and Transwell assay, respectively. Cell‐sphere formation was assessed using a sphere‐forming assay. The enrichment of H3K27ac modifications at the SRY‐related HMG‐box 12 (SOX12) promoter, interactions among FOXN3, SOX12, and E1A binding protein p300 (EP300) were analyzed using chromatin immunoprecipitation or dual luciferase reporter assays. We found that FOXN3 overexpression inhibited CRC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, stemness, and tumor formation in mice by inactivating the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling, while these effects of FOXN3 overexpression were reversed by the overexpression of SOX12. Mechanistically, EP300 increased SOX12 expression in CRC cells by promoting H3K27ac enrichment in the SOX12 promoter. In addition, FOXN3 transcriptionally inhibited EP300 expression in CRC cells by binding to the EP300 promoter. As expected, EP300 overexpression weakened the inhibitory effect of FOXN3 overexpression on CRC cell stemness. Collectively, FOXN3 upregulation inhibited CRC cell stemness by suppressing EP300‐mediated epigenetic upregulation of SOX12.
Impact of Venture Capital on Firm's Technological Innovation: Empirical Study Based on the Strategy of Pre‐ and Post‐Investment
Authors: Xie Chi , Wang Zhen
Published: November 2024

We investigate the impact of venture capital (VC) on the technological innovation of the firms listed on China's National Equities Exchange and Quotations (NEEQ) and identify the role of the VC strategy in this process, by using the data related to VC investment, firm innovation, and human capital. The empirical results demonstrate that (i) VC effectively promote the technological innovation of target firms, especially in the high‐tech industry; (ii) as two parts of the VC strategy in the preinvestment phases, the entry time affects the technological innovation, and VC investing in the mature stage of target firms generally implements the short‐termism strategy, appearing to inhibit the technological innovation, while the shareholding ratio affects the innovation in a nonlinear form, with a pivotal point at an ratio of 21%; and (iii) in the postinvestment phases, the intervention of VC on optimizing the target firms' human capital structure forms its strategy, promoting a significant increase in the proportion of R&D personnel or skilled labor, and promotes the technological innovation. On the whole, our findings provide an insight of how VC influences technological innovation, underscoring the relationship among investment strategy, firm characteristics, and innovation trajectory.
Time‐efficient, high‐resolution 3T whole‐brain relaxometry using Cartesian 3D MR Spin TomogrAphy in Time‐Domain (MR‐STAT) with cerebrospinal fluid suppression
Authors: Liu Hongyan , Versteeg Edwin , Fuderer Miha , van der Heide Oscar , Schilder Martin B. , van den Berg Cornelis A. T. , Sbrizzi Alessandro
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Current three‐dimensional (3D) MR Spin TomogrAphy in Time‐Domain (MR‐STAT) protocols use transient‐state, gradient‐spoiled gradient‐echo sequences that are prone to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pulsation artifacts when applied to the brain. This study aims to develop a 3D MR‐STAT protocol for whole‐brain relaxometry that overcomes the challenges posed by CSF‐induced ghosting artifacts.

Method

We optimized the flip‐angle train within the Cartesian 3D MR‐STAT framework to achieve two objectives: (1) minimization of the noise level in the reconstructed quantitative maps, and (2) reduction of the CSF–to–white‐matter signal ratio to suppress CSF‐associated pulsation artifacts. The optimized new sequence was tested on a gel/water phantom for accuracy evaluation of the quantitative maps, and on healthy volunteers to explore the effectiveness of the CSF artifact suppression and robustness of the new protocol.

Results

An optimized sequence with high parameter‐encoding capability and low CSF signal response was proposed and validated in the gel/water phantom experiment. From in vivo experiments with 5 volunteers, the proposed CSF‐suppressed sequence produced quantitative maps with no CSF artifacts and showed overall greatly improved image quality compared with the baseline sequence. Statistical analysis indicated low intersubject and interscan variability for quantitative parameters in gray matter and white matter (1.6%–2.4% for T1 and 2.0%–4.6% for T2), demonstrating the robustness of the new sequence.

Conclusion

We present a new 3D MR‐STAT sequence with CSF suppression that effectively eliminates CSF pulsation artifacts. The new sequence ensures consistently high‐quality, 1‐mm3 whole‐brain relaxometry within a rapid 5.5‐min scan time.
A conversation on AI, writing, and online learning with Sherri VandenAkker
Authors: Arighi William
Published: November 2024

Sherri VandenAkker, Ph.D., has taught adult learners since the mid‐1990s, with more than two decades working in hybrid and online formats. She's a Professor of English at Springfield College in Massachusetts. This conversation was conducted virtually through questionnaire and videoconference, and has been edited for length and clarity.
Two‐step hydrothermal synthesis of Gd2O(CO3)2@Bi‐MOF/graphene nanoplatelets for enhancing 222Rn and gamma radiation shielding of polymethyl methacrylate‐based composites
Authors: Tan Songbo , Jiang Peipei , Liu Jun , Yang Xuan , Lai Yifeng , Hu Xiaowei , Peng Guowen , Wang Guohui
Published: November 2024

With the increasing complexity of radiation environments, the development of effective shielding materials against 222Rn and gamma radiation is critical for ensuring human health and safety. This study utilized a two‐step hydrothermal method to synthesize Gd₂O(CO₃)₂@bismuth‐based metal–organic frameworks (Bi‐MOFs)/graphene nanoplatelets (GBG) composite fillers, followed by melt blending and hot‐press molding to develop GBG/polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) composites aimed at shielding against 222Rn and gamma radiation. The successful synthesis and structural integrity of the composites were confirmed using various characterization techniques, including x‐ray diffraction, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy. The experimental results indicate that the GBG composite filler exhibits superior enhancement in 222Rn shielding capabilities, with the 222Rn diffusion coefficient of GBG/PMMA‐20 composites reduced to 1.41 × 10−13 m2/s, a 98.6% decrease compared to pure PMMA (1.04 × 10−11 m2/s). Furthermore, the GBG demonstrates outstanding improvements in gamma‐ray shielding performance, with the mass attenuation coefficient of GBG/PMMA‐50 reaching 2.70 cm2/g for 59.5 keV gamma rays, nearly 16 times higher than that of pure PMMA (0.16 cm2/g). Additionally, thermogravimetric analysis revealed that the introduction of GBG fillers significantly improves the thermal stability of the PMMA composites. This work could offer an innovative approach to the design of 222Rn and gamma radiation shielding materials.

Highlights

Developed a novel composite for enhanced 222Rn and gamma radiation shielding.

Introduced Gd‐based fillers to enhance gamma radiation attenuation in PMMA composites.

Achieved superior thermal stability in PMMA composites compared to pure PMMA.

Materials designed for application in high‐radiation environments, including mining.
Outcomes of Modulator Therapy Discontinued After Short‐Term Use in Adult Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Karcioglu Oguz , Idikut Aytekin , Ozturk Ebru , Damadoglu Ebru
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator modulator therapies (CFTR‐MT) have altered management, reducing exacerbations and slowing pulmonary function decline. Nevertheless, it is still uncertain if the benefits of CFTR‐MTs last when they are stopped. This study aimed to assess pulmonary function changes, and exacerbation rates during and after CFTR‐MT use in adult cystic fibrosis patients.

Methods

Between 2018 and 2022, we conducted a study involving adult CF patients who initially used CFTR‐MTs but later discontinued them due to reimbursement issues. The study was divided into three phases: predrug (T1), in‐drug (T2), and postdrug (T3). We recorded pulmonary function tests, laboratory and culture results, and the number of exacerbations.

Results

The study involved 33 patients, with 28 (84.8%) receiving Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor and 5 (15.2%) receiving Ivacaftor. The median treatment and interruption durations were 3.1 (IQR = 2.9–5.7), and 2.5 (IQR = 1.5–4.0) months, respectively. The mean FEV1% was 54.3% (± 26.6), 70.4% (± 27.4), and 60.2% (± 26.5) during T1, T2, and T3, respectively (p < 0.001). The mean FVC% was 65.5% (± 23.9) in T1, increased to 81.5% (± 24.5) in T2, and decreased to 71.6% (± 25.9) in T3 (p < 0.001). The number of Psedomonas aeruginosa, and Aspergillus positive sputum cultures decreased significantly with drug use (T1: 72.7%, 39.4%; T2: 48.5%, 9.1%; T3: 45.5%, 18.2%; p = 0.014, p = 0.004, respectively). The median number of hospitalizations was 1.0 (0–5.0) in T1, 0 (0–0) in T2, and 0 (0–1.0) in T3.

Conclusion

This study revealed that CFTR‐MTs are effective even in the short term for adult CF patients, but their beneficial effects quickly diminish after discontinuation. Real‐life data obtained as a result of discontinuation of drugs due to reimbursement problems has highlighted the significance of regular and uninterrupted use of modulators.
Enhanced Esterification Performance of Layered SO42−/TiO2‐H3Ti5NbO14 Solid Acid Catalyst
Authors: Hu Lifang , Sun Guoxiang , Zhu Jichao , He Jie , Chen Minggong , Li Rui
Published: November 2024

SO42−/TiO2‐H3Ti5NbOl4 solid acid catalyst was prepared via high‐temperature calcination, proton exchange, pillaring, and impregnation processes. The structures and anchoring model can be confirmed by XRD, SEM, and FT‐IR. The acidic properties and specific surface area were characterized by NH3‐TPD and N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherms. The thermal stability was measured by TG‐DTG. The catalytic performances were evaluated via the esterification reaction of acetic acid and n‐butanol. The results show that SO42−/TiO2‐H3Ti5NbOl4 has stronger acid strength and higher acid content than H3Ti5NbOl4 and TiO2‐H3Ti5NbOl4. The esterification rate of ST‐HTN can be reached at 73.82%. The optimal esterification scheme is as follows: the catalyst dosage is 5 wt%, the molar ratio of alcohol to acid is 1.8:1, the reaction temperature is 127 °C, and reaction time is 5.5 h. Based on the structure‐activity relationship, the esterification properties of the selected catalysts were rationalized, which provided a useful perspective for the development and application of a new generation of esterification catalysts.
Lubricating and Dual‐Responsive Injectable Hydrogels Formulated From ZIF‐8 Facilitate Osteoarthritis Treatment by Remodeling the Microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Hongtao , Yuan Shiguo , Zheng Boyuan , Wu Peng , He Xiuming , Zhao Yi , Zhong Zhangfeng , Zhang Xiaofang , Guan Jian , Wang Huajun , Yang Lei , Zheng Xiaofei
Published: November 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressively developing condition primarily characterized by the deterioration of articular cartilage and the proliferation of bone, along with ongoing inflammation. Although the precise pathogenesis remains somewhat elusive, restoring the homeostatic balance of the intra‐articular microenvironment is crucial for the management of OA. Intra‐articular injection of medication is one of the most direct and effective treatment methods; however, most injectable drugs used for osteoarthritis treatment, due to their rapid breakdown, quick release, poor biological activity, and frequent injections, leading to increased risk of infection and suboptimal therapeutic outcomes. In this study, a lubricating and dual‐responsive injectable hydrogel based on zeolitic imidazolate frameworks‐8 (ZIF‐8) impregnated with Quercetin (Que) is designed, which can facilitate OA treatment by remodeling the microenvironment. The prepared injectable nanocomposite hydrogel (MH/CCM@ZIF‐8@Que) exhibits pH and reactive oxygen species (ROS) responsiveness, alongside a controllable release of bioactive substances to modulate the microenvironment of bone tissue, thereby mitigating synovitis and the degeneration of cartilage matrix, while simultaneously facilitating cartilage repair. This developed thermosensitive injectable hydrogel, which effectively balances lubrication with the controlled release of bioactive substances, represents a highly promising therapeutic approach for osteoarthritis.
A SWOT Analysis of Software Development Life Cycle Security Metrics
Authors: Khalid Ayesha , Raza Mushtaq , Afsar Palwasha , Khan Rafiq Ahmad , Mohmand Muhammad Ismail , Rahman Hanif Ur
Published: November 2024

Cyber security is an ongoing and critical concern due to persistent threats posed by threat actors, such as hackers and crackers. With the development of information and communication technologies (ICT), the widespread usage of software systems has transformed modern society in many ways but also created new issues in protecting confidential and sensitive information. The quantification of security measures can provide evidence to support decision‐making in software security, particularly when assessing the security performance of software systems. This entails understanding the key quality criteria of security metrics, which can assist in constructing security models aligned with practical requirements. To delve deeper into this subject, the current study conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) on security metrics and measures within the realm of secure software development (SSD). The study selected 61 research publications for data extraction based on the specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The study identified 215 software security metrics and classified them into different phases of software development life cycle (SDLC). In order to evaluate the most cited metrics in each phase of SDLC, the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis was performed. The SWOT analysis offers a structured framework enabling researchers to make more effective, well‐informed decisions and mitigate potential risks, ultimately contributing to more valuable research findings. The study's findings provide researchers guidance for exploring emerging trends and addressing existing gaps in SDLC. This study also provides software professionals with a more comprehensive understanding of security measurements, constraints, and open‐ended specific and general issues.
Plasma Surface Treatment of CoCr and NiCr Alloys for Dental Applications: A Comparative Study of TiN Thin‐Film Plasma Deposition Techniques
Authors: Balica Naasson Matheus Pereira , de Almeida Larissa Solano , Rossino Luciana Sgarbi , Pupim Denise , Monção Renan Matos , Quelemes Patrick Veras , Costa Thércio H. de C. , Barbosa Marcos Guilherme Carvalho Braulio , Santos Rafaela Luiz Pereira , Sousa Rômulo Ribeiro Magalhães de , Nunes Lívio César Cunha
Published: November 2024

Cobalt–chromium (CoCr) and nickel–chromium (NiCr) alloys have been widely employed in dentistry as biomaterials, owing to their exceptional physical and mechanical properties, coupled with excellent biocompatibility and low cost. In this study, it is aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of titanium nitride (TiN) thin films synthesized via cathodic cage TiN deposition and hollow cathode (HC) TiN deposition techniques. Thin films are deposited onto CoCr and NiCr alloy substrates. The fabricated thin films are characterized using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, Vickers microhardness tests, and abrasive microwear tests. It is observed that the TiN films deposited on the alloys exhibit promising performance, resulting in a 94% increase in wear resistance across the samples. Additionally, an enhancement in microhardness is noted, particularly for the samples treated by HC deposition, which demonstrates superior wear resistance, a critical property for dental applications.
Mechanical damage coefficients of corroding reinforcement of an old building based on the residual “effective” area
Authors: Andrade Carmen , Muñoz J. J. , Bernabeu A. , Gonzalez A.
Published: November 2024

Corrosion decreases the metal mass of the rebar, which reduces its bearing section in addition to developing the risk of hydrogen embrittlement of the bars due to the acidity created during active corrosion. To evaluate the residual strength of corroding bars, a framework was proposed in a previous paper to categorize the alternative modes of failure (ductile or brittle), emphasizing the need to calculate first what was named “the effective residual” area to further calculate tensile parameters characterizing the stress–strain curve: yield and tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and ultimate strain. Using the effective residual area, it is possible to deduce some damage coefficients of each mechanical property by calculating the ratio of corroded/uncorroded condition and deducing if the uncorroded properties of the steel remain or have been degraded by the corrosion process. In the present paper, such an approach has been applied to bars obtained from a historical building around 100 years old. First, stress–strain tests were performed on quasi‐uncorroded and on corroded bars and thereafter, effective residual area is deduced in this case from the weight loss of the bars. With this effective residual area, we then recalculate the mechanical parameters in corrosion conditions and the corresponding damage coefficients.
Intensity Matters Inside and Outside Primary School: Evidence from High‐CLIL, Low‐CLIL, and Non‐CLIL Learners
Authors: Lázaro‐Ibarrola Amparo
Published: November 2024

Research involving secondary school EFL learners has demonstrated that greater intensity of exposure, via CLIL lessons, yields notable benefits. However, studies in primary school are scarce and less optimistic. Furthermore, little is known about the effects of different degrees of CLIL intensity and of learners' exposure to Extramural English (EE) through formal or informal out‐of‐school activities. To address these gaps, this study examines the impact of CLIL and EE on the proficiency of 180 primary school learners of English (aged 10–11 years) divided into a high‐CLIL (N = 78), a low‐CLIL (N = 56), and a non‐CLIL (N = 46) group. Results showed some advantages among high‐CLIL learners, including higher scores and less intragroup variability, while no significant differences were observed between low‐CLIL and non‐CLIL learners. EE activities were common, with several weak but positive correlations found between EE and proficiency, particularly involving watching TV and reading, and mainly affecting non‐CLIL learners.
Chromosome‐level genome assembly of Iodes seguinii and its metabonomic implications for rheumatoid arthritis treatment
Authors: Gong Xun , Zhang Hantao , Guo Yinluo , Yu Shaoshuai , Tang Min
Published: November 2024

Iodes seguinii is a woody vine known for its potential therapeutic applications in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) due to its rich bioactive components. Here, we achieved the first chromosome‐level assembly of the nuclear genome of I. seguinii using PacBio HiFi and chromatin conformation capture (Hi‐C) sequencing data. The initial assembly with PacBio data produced contigs with an N50 length of 9.71 Mb, and Hi‐C data anchored these contigs into 13 chromosomes, achieving a total length of 273.58 Mb, closely matching the estimated genome size. Quality assessments, including BUSCO, long terminal repeat assembly index, transcriptome mapping rates, and sequencing coverage, confirmed the high quality, completeness, and continuity of the assembly, identifying 115.28 Mb of repetitive sequences, 1062 RNA genes, and 25,270 protein‐coding genes. Additionally, we assembled and annotated the 150,599 bp chloroplast genome using Illumina sequencing data, containing 121 genes including key DNA barcodes, with maturase K (matK) proving effective for species identification. Phylogenetic analysis positioned I. seguinii at the base of the Lamiales clade, identifying significant gene family expansions and contractions, particularly related to secondary metabolite synthesis and DNA damage repair. Metabolite analysis identified 84 active components in I. seguinii, including the discovery of luteolin, with 119 targets predicted for RA treatment, including core targets like AKT1, toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), TP53, NFKB1, janus kinase 2 (JAK2), BCL2, mitogen‐activated protein kinase 1 (MAPK1), and spleen‐associated tyrosine kinase (SYK). Key active components such as flavonoids and polyphenols with anti‐inflammatory activities were highlighted. The discovery of luteolin, in particular, underscores its potential therapeutic role. These findings provide a valuable genomic resource and a scientific basis for the development and application of I. seguinii, addressing the genomic gap in the genus Iodes and the order Icacinales and underscoring the need for further research in genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics to fully explore its potential.
Analyzing the divergence and development of business models for urban farming
Authors: de Jong Annelise , Milestad Rebecka , Bustamante Maria J. , Martin Michael
Published: November 2024

Urban farming initiatives are increasingly considered to contribute to the development of sustainable cities—not only regarding increased circularity and resource efficiency but also to address and improve the social and economic dimensions of city regions’ sustainability. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding upscaling and how urban farms can become more viable. The aim of this study was to explore the current business development of urban farming as well as the drivers and barriers for their upscaling. The study employs a qualitative case study on 10 commercial urban farms in the Stockholm region, where data were collected through semi‐structured interviews. The analysis showed that the market consists of a large variety of urban farm types, with business models adapted to their situation. The competition for gaining a larger market share in terms of yield is challenging, so some farms have instead aimed to offer their technological knowledge or diverse packages of other societal and professional services. This shift toward technology and services is apparent for several of the urban farms in the study and requires a completely new set of skills for employees. By expanding through decentralized food production, on‐farm gastronomy, technical product‐service systems, or by providing societal services, there are ample opportunities for increasing the market share of the farms.
Shots at school? Public attitudes about vaccination services in school‐based health centers
Authors: Haeder Simon F.
Published: November 2024

Vaccination rates have dropped across the United States. Vaccination hesitancy plays a major role in this development, but access barriers are also a contributing factor. Access barriers are particularly prevalent among marginalized populations. School‐based health centers (SBHCs) may be an important factor in reducing these barriers and thus increase vaccination rates. A national survey (N = 4196) fielded from January to April of 2022 to assess U.S. public opinion about seven specific vaccination services (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP); polio; chickenpox; measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR); hepatitis; human papillomavirus (HPV); and COVID‐19) in SBHCs. There was substantial support for the provision of these services ranging from 73.6% to 84.2% with HPV and COVID‐19 receiving the least support and MMR receiving the most support. Consistent correlates of support across all vaccines included ideology, partisanship, trust in principals, rurality, and various common measures of vaccination hesitancy. Cumulatively, vaccination hesitancy measures had substantial effects on public attitudes. Vaccination services in SBHCs are broadly popular and may serve as a tool to increase vaccination rates by lowering take‐up barriers. They may be particularly important for increasing take‐up among traditionally marginalized populations and improving health equity.
Threats posed by land use to water quality in South Africa's strategic water source areas
Authors: Locke Kent Anson , Winter Kevin
Published: November 2024

Understanding the negative impacts of land use/land cover (LULC) on water quality is key to developing effective integrated catchment management strategies. However, in line with the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) philosophy, this necessitates the generation and application of useful scientific knowledge, which stakeholders and policymakers can use to inform coordinated decision‐making processes. To facilitate this, a recently published study reported methods for estimating minimum thresholds of natural vegetation necessary for the maintenance and protection of water quality in South African catchments. The present article discusses the application and implications of these findings, focusing on the vulnerability of South Africa's Strategic Water Source Areas (SWSAs) to land‐use‐related water quality impacts. It emphasizes that, due to the significant land use transformations that have already occurred in these areas, and the consequent likelihood of water quality impairment, there is a need to restore and preserve sufficient areas of natural land cover to protect these strategic water resources from unacceptable levels of contamination.
Approaches to student leadership training in study abroad contexts
Authors: Manning‐Ouellette Amber
Published: November 2024

Well‐designed study abroad experiences are beneficial for college students when paired with a leadership training curriculum. Therefore, integrating leadership learning frameworks with culturally competent models of leadership is essential to build global leadership laboratories where students can test their skills abroad. As such, this article offers strategies for planning and developing intentional college student leadership training in study‐abroad settings.
On energy conservation of weak solutions to the α$\alpha$‐type Euler models
Authors: Ye Yulin , Wei Wei , Wang Yanqing
Published: November 2024

Very recently, Boutros and Titi considered Onsager's conjecture of ‐type Euler models in Besov spaces and with . In this paper, we study the energy conservation of weak solutions to these systems in Lebesgue space and homogenous Sobolev space . Moreover, the corresponding results for the energy and the cross‐helicity of the inviscid ‐magnetohydrodynamic equations are also obtained.
The conceptualization of mobility in the Social Sciences
Authors: Kaufmann Vincent
Published: November 2024

Das Konzept der Mobilität in den Sozialwissenschaften hat ein enormes Potenzial, wenn es gelingt, die räumliche, zeitliche und soziale Dimension des Phänomens in einem breiten und großzügigen Ansatz zu integrieren. Das sozialwissenschaftliche Mobilitätskonzept bietet einen ganzheitlichen Ansatz für die Analyse zeitgenössischer Gesellschaften. Es fungiert als Analyserahmen, der es ermöglicht, die Verflechtung verschiedener Mobilitätsformen zu untersuchen. Ein solcher Rahmen muss Bewegungen zwischen den verschiedenen Bereichen der Sozialwissenschaften sowie zwischen ihren unterschiedlichen Terrains und Themen erfassen können. So kann es gelingen, die großen Herausforderungen zu verstehen, mit denen moderne Gesellschaften konfrontiert sind, einschließlich des Klimawandels, der Globalisierung des Handels und des Anstiegs der Ungleichheiten.
Kasner interiors from analytic hairy black holes
Authors: Areán Daniel , Jeong Hyun-Sik , Pedraza Juan F. , Qu Le-Chen
Published: November 2024

Abstract

We conduct an exhaustive study of the interior geometry of a family of asymptotically AdSd+1 hairy black holes in an analytically controllable setup. The black holes are exact solutions to an Einstein-Maxwell-Dilaton theory and include the well-known Gubser-Rocha model. After reviewing the setup, we scrutinize the geometry beyond the horizon, finding that these backgrounds can exhibit timelike or Kasner singularities. We generalize the no inner-horizon theorem for hairy black holes to accommodate these findings. We then consider observables sensitive to the geometry behind the horizon, such as Complexity = Anything and the thermal a-function. In the Kasner case, we propose a new variant of complexity that characterizes the late-time rate by the Kasner exponents, extending previous work by Jørstad, Myers and Ruan. Additionally, we elucidate the power-law behavior of the thermal a-function near the singularity, directly relating it to the Kasner exponents. Finally, we introduce axion-like fields in the Gubser-Rocha model to study the impact of translational symmetry breaking on the black hole interior. We show that Kasner singularities occur for both explicit and spontaneous symmetry breaking, with the Kasner exponents depending on the strength of broken translations only in the latter case.
Stratified Ocean Currents with Constant Vorticity
Authors: Quirchmayr Ronald
Published: November 2024

We analyze vertically stratified three-dimensional oceanic flows under the assumption of constant vorticity. More precisely, these flows are governed by the f-plane approximation for the divergence-free incompressible Euler equations at arbitrary off-equatorial latitudes. A discontinuous stratification gives rise to a freely moving impermeable interface, which separates the two fluid layers of different constant densities; the fluid domain is bounded by a flat ocean bed and a free surface. It turns out that the constant vorticity assumption enforces almost trivial bounded solutions: the vertical fluid velocity vanishes everywhere; the horizontal velocity components are simple harmonic oscillators with Coriolis frequency f and independent of the spatial variables; the pressure is hydrostatic apart from sinusoidal oscillations in time; both the surface and interface are flat. To enable larger classes of solutions, we discuss a forcing method, which yields a characterization of steady stratified purely zonal currents with nonzero constant vorticity. Finally, we discuss the related viscous problem, which has no nontrivial bounded solutions.
Critical analysis of Echinacea preparations marketed in Germany
Authors: Groß Carina , Seifert Roland
Published: November 2024

Colds are the most common cause of incapacity to work in 2023 and therefore have a significant impact on the German economy. Echinacea preparations are considered a non-specific immune stimulant that is used as a phytotherapeutic agent for the treatment and prevention of colds. In the 2021 ZEIT ranking of the best-selling pharmacy-only medicines in Germany, four Echinacea preparations were among the top ten, and they experienced a new hype during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. In this study, 22 Echinacea monopreparations, which are approved as herbal medicinal products, were analyzed based on their package inserts. The preparations used in clinical studies were compared with the preparations available on the market with regard to the criteria of plant species used, plant part used, preparation (extract or pressed juice), drug-extract ratio, single dose administered, standardization of the preparations, prior performance of an ingredient analysis, galenics, dosage, duration of administration, and daily dose administered. The analysis revealed that the preparations available on the market are very heterogeneous. The composition can vary considerably in terms of ingredients. For customers, these products appear homogeneous in terms of their presentation on the market. The legal framework conditions promote this situation. The clinical studies are also unable to adequately reflect the market situation. New studies based on market reality, with an analysis of ingredients in the preparations used, a standardized study design, and the inclusion of hematological and biochemical parameters in the evaluation should improve this situation. Days of incapacity for work as an outcome parameter could be well suited.
Evaluating the diagnostic performance of [18F]ALF-NOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT in gastric cancer: a comparative study with [18F]FDG PET/CT
Authors: Lv Jinghui , Zheng Kai , Jiang Chengzhi , Yang Jian , Peng Xiang , Ye Hui , Zhang Yanyin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To compare the diagnostic value of [18F]ALF-NOTA-FAPI-04 positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/CT in gastric cancer.

Methods

This single-center retrospective analysis included 65 patients with gastric cancer who received both [18F]FDG and [18F]ALF-NOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT for initial staging or restaging. Histopathological manifestations, typical imaging manifestations, follow-up imaging, and comprehensive clinical assessment were used as reference criteria. The uptakes of [18F]FDG and [18F]ALF-NOTA-FAPI-04 PET were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. McNemar’s test was employed to compare the diagnostic performance of the two imaging techniques.

Results

A total of 65 patients were included (26 male and 39 female; mean age, 54.03 ± 10.41 years), Among them, 10 were newly diagnosed, 46 underwent radical gastrectomy, and 9 received only chemotherapy prior to the study. Compared with [18F]FDG PET/CT, [18F]ALF-NOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT showed higher sensitivity in primary or recurrent tumors (100% vs. 64.52%, p < 0.001)), lymph node metastases (88.89% vs. 38.89%, p = 0.006), distant metastases (91.18% vs. 50%, p < 0.001). From the semi-quantitative evaluation, the Maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) and target-to-background ratio of [18F]ALF-NOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT were significantly higher than that of [18F]FDG PET/CT in primary or recurrent tumors, lymph node metastases, and distant metastases (all p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our study results indicate that [18F]ALF-NOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT outperforms [18F]FDG PET/CT in the detection of primary or recurrent tumors, lymph node metastasis, and distant metastasis in gastric cancer.

Key Points

QuestionEarly diagnosis and precise staging of gastric cancer are crucial for patient prognosis; however, current imaging techniques still face significant limitations.

Findings [18F]ALF-NOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT demonstrated significantly higher sensitivity than [18F]FDG PET/CT in detecting primary or recurrent tumors and metastases in patients with gastric cancer.

Clinical relevance [18F]ALF-NOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT is an advanced imaging diagnostic technique that significantly enhances the diagnostic accuracy for gastric cancer and its metastatic lesions. This technology provides robust support for clinical decision-making, thereby improving the management of patients with gastric cancer.
Drugs to affect the smooth musculature of the human ureter - an update with integrated information from basic science to the use in medical expulsion therapy (MET)
Authors: Hedlund Petter , Rahardjo Harrina E. , Tsikas Dimitrios , Kuczyk Markus A. , Ückert Stefan
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Urolithiasis and symptomatic ureterolithiasis represent diseases known to be on the increase in most westernized countries. The present article aims to give an overview on some drug principles assumed to target signalling systems involved in modulating ureter smooth muscle contractility and to present background to their potential use or prospects in ureter stone disease.

Methods

The article reviews drugs that have been evaluated over the last decades in vitro, in vivo and/or in clinical settings with regard to their properties to achieve spontaneous passage of (distal) ureteral stones and relieve colic pain. Among these drugs are alpha- and beta-adrenoceptor antagonists, calcium channel blocking agents, Rho kinase inhibitors, nitric oxide (NO) donor drugs, selective inhibitors of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase enzymes (PDEs), as well as potassium channel openers.

Results

Based on the recent scientific information on agents targeting different pathways, antagonists of alpha 1-adrenoceptors, inhibitors of the PDE isoenzymes PDE4 and PDE5 (affecting cyclic AMP- or NO/cyclic GMP-mediated signals that facilitate relaxation of ureter smooth muscle), as well as the combination of certain drugs (for example, PDE5/PDE4 inhibitor plus alpha 1-AR antagonist) seem to be intriguing pharmacological approaches to medical expulsion therapy (MET) in the overall population of patients.

Conclusion

While NO donors, calcium channel antagonists and potassium channel openers may be limited for further development for medical expulsion therapy (MET) due to their systemic effects and a lack of effect on stone clearance, Rho kinase inhibitors should be explored further as a future pharmacological principle in ureteral stone disease.
The Cough Response to Inhaled Mannitol in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Nurmi Hanna M. , Lätti Anne M. , Koskela Heikki O.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Inhaled mannitol induces bronchoconstriction and cough. This study aimed to describe the cough response to mannitol among healthy adult subjects.

Methods

125 healthy subjects (aged 18–82 years, 52% females, 50% skin prick test positive) underwent a mannitol test. The coughs were recorded both simultaneously and afterwards from video recordings by two researchers. Three indices were evaluated: The cumulative number of coughs per cumulative dose of mannitol (CDR), cumulative provocative dose of mannitol to cause at least 5 coughs, and the maximal number of coughs provoked by any single mannitol dose. The test was repeated in 26 subjects after 3–7 days.

Results

CDR showed the best repeatability with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.829. Gender was the only characteristics that associated with the cough response: The median CDR was 2.53 (interquartile range 0.45–7.01) coughs/100 mg among females and 0.787 (0.0–3.29) coughs/100 mg among males (p = 0.002). The interquartile range upper limits were defined as the cut-off limits for a normal response. The threshold for a statistically significant change in CDR was 6.26 coughs/100 mg. There was a close correlation between simultaneous- and video-assessed CDR (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.985).

Conclusion

Females cough more than males in response to mannitol. CDR is the most suitable index to describe the cough responsiveness. The repeatability of the response is good. Video recording of the coughs is not mandatory. The cut-off limits for a normal cough response to mannitol were provided.
Late postnatal steroid treatment using oral betamethasone can help to close ductus arteriosus in extremely preterm infants who cannot be weaned from ventilation
Authors: Remy Aude , Vincent Marine , Pastor-Diez Blandine , Picaud Jean-Charles
Published: November 2024

Late postnatal steroids are given to premature infants who cannot be weaned from ventilation because of the possible development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). At that time, some infants still have a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). In our experience, the use of betamethasone (BTM) seems to reduce the need for surgical/endovascular treatment of PDA. We evaluated herein the impact of oral BTM on PDA in extremely preterm infants with BPD. Extremely preterm infants (GA < 29 weeks) with PDA and treated with BTM to facilitate extubation/avoid reintubation were included in this retrospective, single-centre study. BTM was administered orally at 0.3 mg/kg/day for 3 days, 0.15 mg/kg/day the following 2 days, and 0.05 mg/kg/day on the last day. An echocardiography was performed before and after BTM treatment. The 51 infants included were born at a median [IQR] GA of 25.7 [25.0–26.7] weeks. At the time of BTM treatment (28 [26–30] days), 94.1% (48/51) were on invasive ventilation, and most (44/48, 91.7%) were extubated after BTM treatment. At that time, nearly all infants had a closed or non-haemodynamically significant PDA (50/51, 98.0%). None required surgical or endovascular treatment after BTM. Adverse effects included transient moderate hypertension (68.6%), transient hyperglycaemia (15.7%), and transient slowing of postnatal weight gain during BTM treatment.

Conclusion: In extremely preterm infants with a severe respiratory condition at 3 weeks of life, oral BTM treatment can help wean invasive ventilation and is associated with PDA closure. It could reduce the need for surgical or endovascular treatment that are associated with serious adverse effects. 

Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT05987202.

What is Known:

• Patent ductus arteriosus and bronchopulmonary dysplasia are two most frequent complications of extreme prematurity.

• Betamethasone is one of the corticosteroids used to help wean invasive ventilation in infants at risk for bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

What is New:

• In extremely preterm infants still ventilated after 3 weeks of life and suffering from patent ductus arteriosus, treatment with oral betamethasone facilitated ventilatory weaning

• Oral betamethasone treatment was associated with patent ductus arteriosus closure in almost all infants.
An Enhanced Empirical Model for Predicting Continuous Fracturing in Rock Masses
Authors: Chen Mingwei , Zhang Chengguo , Canbulat Ismet , Saydam Serkan
Published: November 2024

A reliable empirical prediction of the height of fracturing (HoF) is significant for mining impact assessment and mine sustainability. However, the prediction accuracy is often limited by the parameter and data coverage involved in empirical models. This paper develops a new predictive model that incorporates mining parameters, as well as the proportion and strength of stiff strata, as predictors for enhanced mining impact assessments. A HoF database has been established by sourcing 80 cases from 50 mines in Australia and China. Statistical interpretation identifies positive correlations of HoF to mining height, panel width, and cover depth. Numerical modelling and sensitivity analysis identify that both the proportion and strength of stiff units negatively correlate to HoF and are more significant than bedding plane frequency. The two critical rock parameters are statistically independent and should be considered for enhanced HoF predictions. A predictive model is established by nonlinear regression over the 80 datasets, with both rock parameters involved by mapping to a dimensionless indicator of strata competency considering dimensional consistency. The model is tested with an $${R}^{2}$$

R

2

of 0.84 and more accurate predictions than several historical models regarding 24 new cases. Prediction bounds with a confidence level of 95% are developed considering the rock parameter variability, providing conservative HoF predictions for cases where significant natural features should be preserved for sustainable mining practices. This paper assesses the influence of rock parameters that have not been considered in historical models on continuous fracturing and provides an enhanced empirical method for mining impact assessment.
Reliability and validity of the Swedish version of the inventory of school attendance problems (ISAP)
Authors: Strömbeck Johan , Heyne David , Ferrer-Wreder Laura , Alanko Katarina
Published: November 2024

School attendance problems (SAPs) are heterogenous in nature and thus warrant rigorous assessment prior to intervention. The Inventory of School Attendance Problems (ISAP) is a new instrument that supports a comprehensive assessment of SAPs. This study is the first evaluation of the Swedish version of the ISAP. A web survey comprising the ISAP, School Refusal Assessment Scale-Revised (SRAS-R), and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) were administered to a Swedish community sample (n = 399) of secondary school students aged 12–16 years. We employed a cross-sectional design to test the factor structure of the Swedish ISAP using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Additionally, we evaluated internal consistency using Cronbach’s alpha and omega total, and we evaluated convergent validity by comparing the ISAP with subscales from the SRAS-R and SDQ. Factor analysis yielded support for a predicted 13-factor model. Despite the Chi-square test indicating a significant misfit, the remaining fit indices suggested an adequate model fit. In this sample, there was adequate internal consistency for most scales. Correlations between ISAP factors and related constructs were generally large and positive. Overall, the findings support the reliability and validity of the Swedish ISAP, indicating its potential as a valuable tool for understanding SAPs among students in community samples. Further research is needed to explore its applicability in clinical samples.
Assimilation and value of injection response data for enhanced contaminated site characterization
Authors: Benavides Höglund Nikolas , Sparrenbom Charlotte , Hugman Rui
Published: November 2024

Collecting detailed hydrogeological data before, during, and after remediation campaigns is essential for effective management and monitoring of contaminated sites. As in-situ remediation injection treatment becomes more popular, recording the hydraulic response during these events offers an opportunity to collect detailed data on hydrogeological parameters. Often, multiple injections are performed in a grid pattern over an area targeted for treatment, essentially serving as spatially distributed and high-frequency inverse pumping tests. This information, which is often overlooked, can be assimilated into numerical models for enhanced site characterization and improved forecasts of management actions. However, the high pressures during injections often result in hydraulic fracturing. These events can represent temporary or permanent changes in aquifer properties and should be considered when assimilating injection response data into a model to reduce the risk of introducing parameter bias. Four groundwater models were developed for a contaminated site in Sweden, treated with in-situ injections in 2017. The models were designed to evaluate strategies for assimilating injection response data, including alternative weighting schemes and the use of time-varying parameters around injection points to account for hydraulic fracturing during injections. Results show that assigning a higher weight to observations recorded during injections, compared to records of ambient head, combined with the use of time-varying parameters, yielded the best results with the lowest risk of underestimating predictive uncertainty. A subsequent data worth analysis revealed that injection response data provided detailed insights into aquifer properties in the injection zone that were not available from ambient head data alone.