bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atractylenolide‐1 affects glycolysis/gluconeogenesis by downregulating the expression of TPI1 and GPI to inhibit the proliferation and invasion of human triple‐negative breast cancer cells
Authors: Xu Haiying , Li Lanqing , Qu Linghang , Tu Jiyuan , Sun Xiongjie , Liu Xianqiong , Xu Kang
Published: November 2022

Atractylenolide‐1 (AT‐1) is a major octanol alkaloid isolated from Atractylodes Rhizoma and is widely used to treat various diseases. However, few reports have addressed the anticancer potential of AT‐1, and the underlying molecular mechanisms of its anticancer effects are unclear. This study aimed to assess the effect of AT‐1 on triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell proliferation and migration and explore its potential molecular mechanisms. Cell invasion assays confirmed that the number of migrating cells decreased after AT‐1 treatment. Colony formation assays showed that AT‐1 treatment impaired the ability of MDA‐MB‐231 cells to form colonies. AT‐1 inhibited the expression of p‐p38, p‐ERK, and p‐AKT in MDA‐MB‐231 cells, significantly downregulated the proliferation of anti‐apoptosis‐related proteins CDK1, CCND1, and Bcl2, and up‐regulated pro‐apoptotic proteins Bak, caspase 3, and caspase 9. The gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy results showed that AT‐1 downregulated the metabolism‐related genes TPI1 and GPI through the glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathway and inhibited tumor growth in vivo. AT‐1 affected glycolysis/gluconeogenesis by downregulating the expression of TPI1 and GPI, inhibiting the proliferation, migration, and invasion of (TNBC) MDA‐MB‐231 cells and suppressing tumor growth in vivo.
Synthesis, α‐glucosidase Inhibition, in silico Pharmacokinetic, and Docking Studies Of Thieno[2,3‐b]Quinoline‐Acetamide Derivatives as New Anti‐Diabetic Agents
Authors: Mohammadi‐Khanaposhtani Maryam , Noori Milad , Valizadeh Yousef , Dastyafteh Navid , Ghomi Minoo Khalili , Mojtabavi Somayeh , Faramarzi Mohammad Ali , Hosseini Samanesadat , Biglar Mahmood , Larijani Bagher , Rastegar Hossein , Hamedifar Haleh , Mirzazadeh Roghieh , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: November 2022

In this work, novel anti‐α‐glucosidase agents, thieno[2,3‐b]quinoline‐acetamide derivatives 5 a–m have been designed and synthesized. These compounds were evaluated in vitro against yeast α‐glucosidase. Most of the title new compounds exhibited a significant α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity in comparison to positive control, acarbose. In this regards, the most potent compound amongst the tested compounds, compound 5 k, with IC50=48.66±0.02 μM was 15.6‐fold more potent than acarbose. Compound 5 k was a competitive inhibitor into α‐glucosidase and interacted with important residues of the active site of this enzyme. Three most potent compounds among the newly synthesized compounds 5 j–k and 5 m were evaluated in silico in term of the oral druglikeness and pharmacokinetic properties. The obtained results predicted that these compounds had satisfactory oral druglikeness and pharmacokinetic properties.
Construction of Graphitic Carbon Nitride Coating for Efficient Degradation of Ozone and Ozone Precursor
Authors: Zhao Ziquan , Hao Yaru , Song Xijia , Deng Zhaoqi
Published: November 2022

In this study, the aqueous solution of graphitic carbon nitrides (g‐CN) is investigated as a green additive for the waterborne coating to the decompose ozone and its precursors (ozone precursors: total volatile organic compounds and oxynitride). The physical properties of the waterborne coating have been improved through a facile interface interaction between g‐CN and waterborne coating. The results of SEM images, XRD patterns and FTIR spectrum indicated that the interface between g‐CN sheets and waterborne coating is strengthened which gives rise to enhancement of interfacial effect, resulting in consequent improvement of the physical properties. Meanwhile, the coating with g‐CN exhibited excellent absorption ability toward visible light. As a result, the optimized waterborne coating with 0.1 wt % g‐CN (C‐0.1CN) casts the extraordinary photocatalytic degradation efficiency of ozone (99.5 v/v%). Moreover, the C‐0.1CN can contribute degradation efficiency up to 75.3 % toward the total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) under the simulated indoor lighting condition for 48 hours. These findings provide a new way towards waterborne coating design for achieving high‐efficiency photocatalytic indoor pollution degradation.
Metal‐free Synthesis of Trisubstituted Pyrazoles by the Reaction Between Hydrazones and Activated Olefins
Authors: Bhaskaran Rasmi P. , Sreelekha Mariswamy K. , Babu Beneesh P.
Published: November 2022

The reactivity of various activated olefins towards the [3+2] annulation with hydrazones (aza‐enamines) has been studied. Nitroolefins, methyl vinyl ketone, acrylates and acrylamide were found to react with aldehyde hydrazones of different electronic nature to generate 1,3,5‐/1,3,4–trisubstituted pyrazoles selectively. A detailed optimization study was conducted to derive the best condition for the annulation reaction of different olefin partner and the intermediate dihydropyrazole is also identified.
A Layered Electrochemical Sensor for Epinephrine Based on a Nitrogen‐Doped Reduced Graphene Oxide‐ZnFe2O4/β‐Cyclodextrin‐Modified Platinum Electrode
Authors: Sethu Madhavan Arya , Kakkaraparambil Vijayan Jishnu , Rajith Leena
Published: November 2022

A novel nanocomposite of nitrogen‐doped reduced graphene oxide‐ZnFe2O4/β‐cyclodextrin (NRGO‐ZnFe2O4/β‐CD) was synthesised for electrocatalytic applications on platinum electrode. The structural and morphological characterisation of the synthesised nanocomposite was carried out using FTIR, XRD, EDAX, FESEM, HRTEM etc. The electrochemical characterisation was performed using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). NRGO‐ZnFe2O4/β‐CD proved to be an excellent electrocatalyst for the electrochemical detection of epinephrine on platinum electrode and the optimum pH for the response was found to be 7. The electrochemical characteristics of the oxidation of epinephrine was found to be quasi reversible and diffusion controlled with charge transfer coefficient and diffusion coefficient of 0.55 and 1.03×10−5 cm2/s respectively. Detection limit in the micromolar range of epinephrine was achieved with specific recognition in presence of other structurally similar catecholamines like norepinephrine and dopamine even in their ten‐fold excess concentration at β‐CD/NRGO‐ZnFe2O4/Pt electrode and the electrode exhibited good repeatability, excellent reproducibility and stability for the oxidation of epinephrine. Recognition of epinephrine with high selectivity could be attained in presence of other common substances present in biological fluids.
Using HCOONH4 as a Reductant and Nitrogen Source in Converting PhCHO to Imine via a Continuous Condensation‐Reduction Mechanism
Authors: Li Siqi , Lu Jianmin , Huang Zhipeng , Xu Shutao , Zhang Chaofeng , Wang Feng
Published: November 2022

Herein, we present a novel method to synthesize imine and its derivatives using aromatic aldehydes and HCOONH4 in DMSO. HCOONH4 functions as both the nitrogen source and hydrogen source. And a continuous condensation‐reduction (CCCR) mechanism was proposed. Moreover, the HMQC spectrum indicated the generation of (PhCH=N)2CHPh, which was the key intermediate of the CCCR route.
Layered Double Hydroxides Used in the Construction of Photoisomeric Space for Organic Dye Molecules
Authors: Liu Jing , Bai Yang , Liang Kaixiang , Kong Lingwei , Wang Ruixing , Shi Wenying , Lu Chao
Published: November 2022

The application of photoisomerization in the storage of electron energy, molecular actuators, and medical fields has attracted extensive attention. However, the difficult regulation of the photoisomeric process hinders its practical application. Here, we provide organic molecule (acid orange, AO7) with two different nano‐confined spaces by changing the interlayer spacing of layered double hydroxide (LDH). The obtained host‐guest AO7‐LDHs‐1 and AO7‐LDHs‐2 complexes show distinctly different photoisomeric behaviors. When the LDH spacing is 1.66 nm, the relative isomerization rate of AO7 is 34 %, while when the LDH spacing is 1.13 nm, the relative isomerization rate of AO7 is 13 %. This is because the isomerization rate of AO7 molecule can be reasonably controlled by the size of LDH nano‐microenvironment. This work provides a reference for the further study of the effect of nano‐space on the photoisomeric process of organic molecules.
A New Mixed‐Mode Stationary Phase Derived from [2‐(3,4‐epoxycyclohexyl)ethyl]trimethoxysilane as a Coupling Reagent and Its RPLC/HILIC/IEC Applications
Authors: Yaşar Mumin M. , Aral Hayriye , Sunkur Murat , Aral Tarık
Published: November 2022

A new mixed‐mode stationary phase derived from [2‐(3,4‐epoxycyclohexyl)ethyl]trimethoxysilane as a coupling reagent was synthesized and evaluated for hydrophilic‐interaction/reversed‐phase/ion‐exchange HPLC. This phase bearing polar groups as well as nonpolar aliphatic and aromatic groups was synthesized starting from [2‐(3,4‐epoxycyclohexyl)ethyl]trimethoxysilane and isoleucine amino acid, and it was characterized by elemental analysis, FTIR spectroscopy, SEM, and solid‐state 13C NMR. The new stationary phase offers hydrophilic interaction, reversed‐phase and ion‐exchange functionalities, which facilitate the simultaneous separation of polar, nonpolar, and ionic compounds. Several polar nonpolar compounds were tested to investigate the retention properties of the new phase. Seven water‐soluble vitamins and five nucleobases/nucleosides were tested to investigate the effectiveness of the new phase in HILIC mode. Six water‐soluble vitamins were separated successfully by gradient elution and the five nucleobases/nucleosides were separated by isocratic elution. Numerous polar and nonpolar small compounds were tested under RPLC conditions, while six selected benzoic acids were tested for the IEC properties of the new phase, and these were also separated successfully. Quantitative structure‐activity relationships between the test compounds and the new stationary phase are discussed according to logP, logD and pKa values.
Highly Stable Sb/C Anode for K+ and Na+ Energy Storage Enabled by Pulsed Laser Ablation and Polydopamine Coating
Authors: Gao Hui , Lee Jeongyeon , Lu Qixiao , Kim Yoonbin , Shin Kang Ho , Park Ho Seok , Zhang Zhonghua , Lee Lawrence Yoon Suk
Published: November 2022

Potassium‐ and sodium‐ion batteries (PIBs and SIBs) have great potential as the next‐generation energy application owing to the natural abundance of K and Na. Antimony (Sb) is a suitable alloying‐type anode for PIBs and SIBs due to its high theoretical capacity and proper operation voltage; yet, the severe volume variation remains a challenge. Herein, a preparation of N‐doped carbon‐wrapped Sb nanoparticles (L‐Sb/NC) using pulsed laser ablation and polydopamine coating techniques, is reported. As the anode for PIB and SIB, the L‐Sb/NC delivers superior rate capabilities and excellent cycle stabilities (442.2 and 390.5 mA h g−1 after 250 cycles with the capacity decay of 0.037% and 0.038% per cycle) at the current densities of 0.5 and 1.0 A g−1, respectively. Operando X‐ray diffraction reveals the facilitated and stable potassiation and sodiation mechanisms of L‐Sb/NC enabled by its optimal core–shell structure. Furthermore, the SIB full cell fabricated with L‐Sb/NC and Na3V2(PO4)2F3 shows outstanding electrochemical performances, demonstrating its practical energy storage application.
Validated Method for Evaluating the Four‐Terminal Perovskite/Si Tandem Cell Performance and its Efficiency Potential
Authors: Zhang Dong , Datta Kunal , Zardetto Valerio , Veenstra Sjoerd , Coletti Gianluca , Janssen René A. J.
Published: November 2022

Recently perovskite/crystalline Si (cSi) tandem cells draw considerable attention because their high efficiency can reduce the levelized cost of electricity and increase the power density of photovoltaics (PVs) to accelerate the energy transition. While the theoretical limits for tandem cells are well known, the practical limits are less clear. Herein, a new method is presented to calculate the efficiency of a four‐terminal (4T) tandem based on the performance of single‐junction perovskite and cSi cells, using their detailed‐balance efficiency fraction. This calculation method is validated with experiments on 4T perovskite/cSi tandem cells that provide a maximum efficiency of 28.0% and with the literature data available for similar configurations. A maximum efficiency of about 36% is estimated for 4T perovskite/cSi tandem cells that would use present record perovskite and cSi PV cells. This can be regarded as the practical efficiency limit for 4T perovskite/cSi tandem devices.
Oxygen Vacancy Introduction to Increase the Capacity and Voltage Retention in Li‐Excess Cathode Materials
Authors: Huang Jianping , Zhong Peichen , Ha Yang , Lun Zhengyan , Tian Yaosen , Balasubramanian Mahalingam , Yang Wanli , Ceder Gerbrand
Published: November 2022

Li‐rich rocksalt oxides are promising cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries due to their large capacity and energy density, and their ability to use earth‐abundant elements. The excess Li in the rocksalt, needed to achieve good Li transport, reduces the theoretical transition metal redox capacity and introduces a labile oxygen state, both of which lead to increased oxygen oxidation and concomitant capacity loss with cycling. Herein, it is demonstrated that substituting the labile oxygen in Li‐rich cation‐disordered rocksalt materials with a vacancy is an effective strategy to inhibit oxygen oxidation. It is found that the oxygen vacancy in cation‐disordered lithium manganese oxide favors high Li coordination thereby reducing the concentration of unhybridized oxygen states, while increasing the theoretical Mn capacity. It is shown that in the vacancy‐containing compound, synthesized by ball milling, the Mn valence is lowered to less than +3, providing access to more than 300 mAh g−1 capacity from the Mn2+/Mn4+ redox reservoir. The increased transition metal redox and decreased O oxidation are found to improve the capacity and voltage retention, indicating that oxygen vacancy creation to remove the most vulnerable oxygen ions and reduce transition metal valence provides a new opportunity for the design of high‐performance Li‐rich rocksalt cathodes.
Current practices regarding middle turbinate resection among otolaryngologists
Authors: Ziegler Andrea , Patadia Monica , Patel Chirag
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Resection of the middle turbinate (MT) during endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) has been a controversial topic among otolaryngologists for many years. Some studies advocate resection and have shown improved outcomes postoperatively, while studies favoring preservation show a decreased incidence of postoperative complications. The current practice pattern regarding this subject is unknown. The goal of this study was to learn the current practice of MT resection during ESS among otolaryngologists.

Method

We performed an electronic anonymous survey of practicing otolaryngologists.

Results

We found that the majority of the 252 responders stated that they will perform an MT resection in certain clinical situations, while there is a small subset that advocates never resecting the MT for inflammatory sinus disease (n = 6, 2.4%). Participants were significantly more likely to perform MT resection in patients undergoing revision compared to primary ESS for all conditions included. The complication of greatest concern among participants was iatrogenic frontal sinus obstruction, while empty nose was of the least concern. The majority of participants responded that MT resection was of extreme or moderate benefit for improved visualization and drug delivery postoperatively. When compared to general otolaryngologists, fellowship‐trained rhinologists were less concerned about potential complications following MT resection and were more likely to perceive an extreme or moderate benefit from turbinate resection postoperatively.

Conclusion

There remains debate over MT resection among otolaryngologists, but the results of this study show that the majority of participating otolaryngologists will perform a resection in certain clinical situations.
Internal resonance and bending analysis of thick visco-hyper-elastic arches
Authors: Khaniki Hossein B. , Ghayesh Mergen H. , Chin Rey , Hussain Shahid
Published: November 2022

In this study, a comprehensive analysis of visco-hyper-elastic thick soft arches under an external time-independent as well as time-dependent loads is presented from bending and internal resonance phenomenon perspectives. Axial, transverse and rotation motions are considered for modelling the thick and soft arch in the framework of the Mooney–Rivlin and Kelvin–Voigt visco-hyper-elastic schemes and third-order shear deformable models. The arch is assumed to be incompressible and is modelled using von Kármán geometric nonlinearity in the strain–displacement relationship. Using a virtual work method, the bending equations are derived. For the vibration analysis, three, coupled, highly nonlinear equations of motions are obtained using force-moment balance method. The Newton–Raphson method together with the dynamic equilibrium technique is used for the bending and vibration analyses. A detailed study on the influence of having visco-hyper-elasticity and arch curvature in the frequency response of the system is given in detail, and the bending deformation due to the applied static load is presented. The influence of having thick, soft arches with different slenderness ratios is shown, and the forced vibration response is discussed. Moreover, internal resonance in the system is studied showing that the curvature term in the structure can lead to three-to-one internal resonances, showing a rich nonlinear frequency response. The results of this study are a step forward in studying the visco-hyper-elastic behaviour of biological structures and soft tissues.

Graphic abstract
Postpartum pelvic floor muscle training, levator ani avulsion and levator hiatus area: a randomized trial
Authors: Hilde Gunvor , Stær-Jensen Jette , Siafarikas Franziska , Engh Marie Ellström , Bø Kari
Published: November 2022

Introduction and hypothesis

Vaginal delivery may lead to tearing of the levator ani (LA) muscle from its bony insertions (complete LA avulsion) and increased levator hiatus (LH) area, both risk factors for pelvic floor dysfunctions. Early active rehabilitation is standard treatment after musculo-skeletal injury. We hypothesized that pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) early postpartum would reduce the presence of LA avulsions and reduce LH area.

Methods

We carried out a planned secondary analysis from a randomized controlled study. Primiparous women (n=175) giving birth vaginally were included 6 weeks postpartum, stratified on complete LA avulsion, and thereafter randomized to PFMT or control. The training participants (n=87) attended a supervised PFMT class once a week and performed home-based PFMT daily for 16 weeks. The control participants (n=88) received no intervention. Presence of complete LA avulsion, LH area at rest, maximal contraction, and maximal Valsalva maneuver were assessed by transperineal ultrasound. Between-group comparisons were analyzed by analysis of covariance for continuous data, and relative risk (RR) for categorical data.

Results

Six months postpartum, the number of women who had complete LA avulsion was reduced from 27 to 14 within the PFMT group (44% reduction) and from 28 to 17 within the control group (39% reduction). The between-group difference was not significant, RR 0.85 (95% CI 0.53 to 1.37). Further, no significant between-group differences were found for LH area at rest, during contraction, or Valsalva.

Conclusions

Supervised PFMT class combined with home exercise early postpartum did not reduce the presence of complete LA avulsion or LH area more than natural remission.
Shock ignition of aluminium particle clouds in the low-temperature regime
Authors: Omang M. , Hauge K. O.
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we present results from spontaneous ignition of aluminium particle clouds in a series of shock tube experiments. For all experiments, the shock propagates along a narrow pile of 40-$$\upmu $$
μ
m aluminium particles. The study includes shock Mach numbers in the range from 1.51 to 2.38. The results are visualised using photographic techniques and pressure gauges. The combination of two Phantom high-speed video cameras and a beamsplitter allows a compact schlieren setup mounted together with a dark-film high-speed camera. While the schlieren technique allows the shock features to be identified, the dark-film camera is used to capture the ignition and burning of the aluminium particle clouds. Based on extensive image processing and shock tube relations for reflected shocks, spontaneous ignition of the aluminium particle cloud is found to take place for reflected shock gas temperatures above 635 K. For increasing Mach numbers, we find a decreasing trend for the ignition delay. Additionally, the burning time is observed to decrease with increasing Mach number, indicating that the burning process is more efficient with increasing gas temperature.
Characterizations and Directed Path-Width of Sequence Digraphs
Authors: Gurski Frank , Rehs Carolin , Rethmann Jochen
Published: November 2022

Computing the directed path-width of a directed graph is an NP-hard problem. Even for digraphs of maximum semi-degree 3 the problem remains hard. We propose a decomposition of an input digraph G = (V,A) by a number k of sequences with entries from V, such that (u,v) ∈ A if and only if in one of the sequences there is an occurrence of u appearing before an occurrence of v. We present several graph theoretical properties of these digraphs. Among these we give forbidden subdigraphs of digraphs which can be defined by k = 1 sequence, which is a subclass of semicomplete digraphs. Given the decomposition of digraph G, we show an algorithm which computes the directed path-width of G in time $\mathcal {O}(k\cdot (1+N)^{k})$
O
(
k
⋅

(
1
+
N
)

k

)
, where N denotes the maximum sequence length. This leads to an XP-algorithm w.r.t. k for the directed path-width problem. Our result improves the algorithms of Kitsunai et al. for digraphs of large directed path-width which can be decomposed by a small number of sequences and confirm their conjecture that semicompleteness is a useful restriction when considering digraphs.
Radiation dose and fluoroscopy time of aneurysm coiling in patients with unruptured and ruptured intracranial aneurysms as a function of aneurysm size, location, and patient age
Authors: Opitz Marcel , Zenk Celina , Zensen Sebastian , Bos Denise , Li Yan , Styczen Hanna , Oppong Marvin Darkwah , Jabbarli Ramazan , Hagenacker Tim , Forsting Michael , Wanke Isabel , Deuschl Cornelius
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Endovascular treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs) requires a risk–benefit analysis and adherence to diagnostic reference levels (DRLs). The national DRL (250 Gy·cm2) is only determined for intracranial aneurysm coiling in general, including ruptured intracranial aneurysms (RIAs). This study aims to investigate the dose in the treatment of UIAs and RIAs separately.

Methods

In a retrospective study design, dose area product (DAP) and fluoroscopy time (FT) were assessed for all patients undergoing intracranial aneurysm coiling between 2010 and 2021. DRL was set as the 75th percentile of the dose distribution. A multivariable linear regression analysis was performed to investigate DAP and FT for the two groups, UIA and RIA adjusted for patient age, aneurysm size, and location.

Results

583 (414 females, mean age 56.5 years, 311 UIAs) are included. In the overall population, DAP (median (IQR)) is 157 Gy·cm2 (108–217) with a median FT of 32.7 min (IQR 24.0–47.0). Local DRL is 183 Gy·cm2 for UIAs and 246 Gy·cm2 for RIAs. After adjustment for the other variables, the UIA and RIA groups have a significant effect on both DAP (p < 0.001; 95% CI − 68.432 – − 38.040) and FT (p < 0.001; 95% CI − 628.279 – − 291.254). In general, both DAP and FT increase significantly with patient age and aneurysm size, whereas the location of the aneurysm did not significantly change neither DAP (p = 0.171; 95% CI − 5.537–31.065) nor FT (p = 0.136; 95% CI − 357.391–48.508).

Conclusion

Both aneurysm size and patient age were associated with increased DAP, whereas aneurysm location did not significantly change DAP or FT. The increased dose in patients with RIAs is likely equivalent to additional diagnostic cerebral four-vessel angiography performed in this group.
Price of anarchy for parallel link networks with generalized mean objective
Authors: Kleer Pieter
Published: November 2022

The price of anarchy is the most well-known measure for quantifying the inefficiency of equilibrium flows in traffic networks and routing games. In this work, we give unifying price of anarchy bounds for atomic and non-atomic parallel link routing games with polynomial cost functions under various cost objectives including the arithmetic mean, geometric mean and worst-case cost objective. We do this through the study of the generalized p-mean as cost objective, and obtain upper bounds on the price of anarchy in terms of this parameter p. Our bounds unify existing results from the literature, and, in particular, give alternative proofs for price of anarchy results in parallel link routing games with polynomial cost functions under the geometric mean objective obtained by Vinci et al. (ACM Trans Econ Comput 10(2):41, 2022). We recover those simply as a limiting case. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first price of anarchy bounds that capture multiple cost objectives simultaneously in a closed-form expression.
Accuracy, repeatability, and reproducibility of T1 and T2 relaxation times measurement by 3D magnetic resonance fingerprinting with different dictionary resolutions
Authors: Wicaksono Krishna Pandu , Fushimi Yasutaka , Nakajima Satoshi , Sakata Akihiko , Okuchi Sachi , Hinoda Takuya , Oshima Sonoko , Otani Sayo , Tagawa Hiroshi , Urushibata Yuta , Nakamoto Yuji
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To assess the accuracy, repeatability, and reproducibility of T1 and T2 relaxation time measurements by three-dimensional magnetic resonance fingerprinting (3D MRF) using various dictionary resolutions.

Methods

The ISMRM/NIST phantom was scanned daily for 10 days in two 3 T MR scanners using a 3D MRF sequence reconstructed using four dictionaries with varying step sizes and one dictionary with wider ranges. Thirty-nine healthy volunteers were enrolled: 20 subjects underwent whole-brain MRF scans in both scanners and the rest in one scanner. ROI/VOI analyses were performed on phantom and brain MRF maps. Accuracy, repeatability, and reproducibility metrics were calculated.

Results

In the phantom study, all dictionaries showed high T1 linearity to the reference values (R2 > 0.99), repeatability (CV < 3%), and reproducibility (CV < 3%) with lower linearity (R2 > 0.98), repeatability (CV < 6%), and reproducibility (CV ≤ 4%) for T2 measurement. The volunteer study demonstrated high T1 reproducibility of within-subject CV (wCV) < 4% by all dictionaries with the same ranges, both in the brain parenchyma and CSF. Yet, reproducibility was moderate for T2 measurement (wCV < 8%). In CSF measurement, dictionaries with a smaller range showed a seemingly better reproducibility (T1, wCV 3%; T2, wCV 8%) than the much wider range dictionary (T1, wCV 5%; T2, wCV 13%). Truncated CSF relaxometry values were evident in smaller range dictionaries.

Conclusions

The accuracy, repeatability, and reproducibility of 3D MRF across various dictionary resolutions were high for T1 and moderate for T2 measurements. A lower-resolution dictionary with a well-defined range may be adequate, thus significantly reducing the computational load.

Key Points

• A lower-resolution dictionary with a well-defined range may be sufficient for 3D MRF reconstruction.

• CSF relaxation times might be underestimated due to truncation by the upper dictionary range.

• Dictionary with a higher upper range might be advisable, especially for CSF evaluation and elderly subjects whose perivascular spaces are more prominent.
Lung shrinking assessment on HRCT with elastic registration technique for monitoring idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Sun Haishuang , Yang Xiaoyan , Sun Xuebiao , Meng Xiapei , Kang Han , Zhang Rongguo , Zhang Haoyue , Liu Min , Dai Huaping , Wang Chen
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Evaluation and follow-up of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) mainly rely on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and pulmonary function tests (PFTs). The elastic registration technique can quantitatively assess lung shrinkage. We aimed to investigate the correlation between lung shrinkage and morphological and functional deterioration in IPF.

Methods

Patients with IPF who underwent at least two HRCT scans and PFTs were retrospectively included. Elastic registration was performed on the baseline and follow-up HRCTs to obtain deformation maps of the whole lung. Jacobian determinants were calculated from the deformation fields and after logarithm transformation, log_jac values were represented on color maps to describe morphological deterioration, and to assess the correlation between log_jac values and PFTs.

Results

A total of 69 patients with IPF (male 66) were included. Jacobian maps demonstrated constriction of the lung parenchyma marked at the lung base in patients who were deteriorated on visual and PFT assessment. The log_jac values were significantly reduced in the deteriorated patients compared to the stable patients. Mean log_jac values showed positive correlation with baseline percentage of predicted vital capacity (VC%) (r = 0.394, p < 0.05) and percentage of predicted forced vital capacity (FVC%) (r = 0.395, p < 0.05). Additionally, the mean log_jac values were positively correlated with pulmonary vascular volume (r = 0.438, p < 0.01) and the number of pulmonary vascular branches (r = 0.326, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Elastic registration between baseline and follow-up HRCT was helpful to quantitatively assess the morphological deterioration of lung shrinkage in IPF, and the quantitative indicator log_jac values were significantly correlated with PFTs.

Key Points

• The elastic registration on HRCT was helpful to quantitatively assess the deterioration of IPF.

• Jacobian logarithm was significantly reduced in deteriorated patients and mean log_jac values were correlated with PFTs.

• The mean log_jac values were related to the changes of pulmonary vascular volume and the number of vascular branches.
Detection and size measurements of kidney stones on virtual non-contrast reconstructions derived from dual-layer computed tomography in an ex vivo phantom setup
Authors: Reimer R. P. , Zaytoun H. , Klein K. , Sonnabend K. , Lennartz S. , Zopfs D. , Heidenreich A. , Maintz D. , Große Hokamp N.
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To systematically investigate the usability of virtual non-contrast reconstructions (VNC) derived from dual-layer CT (DLCT) for detection and size measurements of kidney stones with regards to different degrees of surrounding iodine-induced attenuation and radiation dose.

Methods

Ninety-two kidney stones of varying size (3–14 mm) and composition were placed in a phantom filled with different contrast media/water mixtures exhibiting specific iodine-induced attenuation (0–1500 HU). DLCT-scans were acquired using CTDIvol of 2 mGy and 10 mGy. Conventional images (CI) and VNC0H-1500HU were reconstructed. Reference stone size was determined using a digital caliper (Man-M). Visibility and stone size were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using the McNemar test, Wilcoxon test, and the coefficient of determination.

Results

All stones were visible on CI0HU and VNC200HU. Starting at VNC400 HU, the detection rate decreased with increasing HU and was significantly lower as compared to CI0HU on VNC≥ 600HU (100.0 vs. 94.0%, p < 0.05). The overall detection rate was higher using 10 mGy as compared to 2 mGy protocol (87.9 vs. 81.8%; p < 0.001). Stone size was significantly overestimated on all VNC compared to Man-M (7.0 ± 3.5 vs. 6.6 ± 2.8 mm, p < 0.001). Again, the 10 mGy protocol tended to show a better correlation with Man-M as compared to 2 mGy protocol (R2 = 0.39–0.68 vs. R2 = 0.31–0.57).

Conclusions

Detection and size measurements of kidney stones surrounded by contrast media on VNC are feasible. The detection rate of kidney stones decreases with increasing iodine-induced attenuation and with decreasing radiation dose as well as stone size, while remaining comparable to CI0HU on VNC ≤ 400 HU.

Key Points

• The detection rate of kidney stones on VNC depends on the surrounding iodine-induced attenuation, the used radiation dose, and the stone size.

• The detection rate of kidney stones on VNC decreases with greater iodine-induced attenuation and with lower radiation dose, particularly in small stones.

• The visibility of kidney stones on VNC≤ 400 HUremains comparable to true-non-contrast scans even when using a low-dose technique.
Empfehlungen der Österreichischen Gesellschaft für Rheumatologie und Rehabilitation zu Ernährung und Lebensstil bei Gicht und Hyperurikämie – Update 2022
Authors: Sautner J. , Eichbauer-Sturm G. , Gruber J. , Lunzer R. , Puchner R.
Published: November 2022

Hintergrund

Gicht ist die häufigste entzündliche Gelenkerkrankung in der westlichen Welt und hat einen bewiesenen genetischen Hintergrund. Zusätzlich tragen Lebensstilfaktoren wie steigende Lebenserwartung und Wohlstand, ausreichende bzw. Überflussernährung und eine steigende Prävalenz von Adipositas in der Bevölkerung sowie z. B. Alkoholkonsum zur steigenden Inzidenz von Hyperurikämie und Gicht bei. Neben einer adäquaten medikamentösen Therapie ist fundierte medizinische Beratung zu Ernährung und Lebensstil ein essenzieller Teil des Managements von Gichtpatienten, die ein hohes Risiko für internistische Komorbiditäten haben.

Ziel

Bereits 2015 hat der Arbeitskreis für Osteoarthritis und Kristallarthropathien in der Österreichischen Gesellschaft für Rheumatologie und Rehabilitation (ÖGR) Ernährungs- und Lebensstilempfehlungen für Patienten mit Gicht und Hyperurikämie publiziert. Seither wurde eine Vielzahl an Arbeiten zu diesem Thema publiziert, was ein Update notwendig machte.

Methoden

Um die seit 2015 publizierte Literatur zu screenen, führten die Autoren zunächst eine hierarchische Literatursuche durch. Unter Berücksichtigung relevanter Zitate der ersten Publikation wurde die relevante Literatur ausgewählt, und die Empfehlungen aus 2015 wurden entweder beibehalten, umformuliert oder neu erstellt. Danach wurden der Evidenzgrad und der Grad der Zustimmung durch die Autoren für jede Empfehlung hinzugefügt.

Ergebnisse

Auf dieser Basis wurden 10 Empfehlungen statt der bisherigen 9 erstellt. Wie in der Erstpublikation wurde eine grafische Darstellung mit Symbolen erstellt, um den Text nonverbal zu ergänzen.

Schlussfolgerung

Die ÖGR-Empfehlungen zu Ernährung und Lebensstil für Patienten mit Gicht und Hyperurikämie wurden entsprechend dem aktuellen Stand der Literatur angepasst. Sie dienen als Informations- und Schulungsmaterial für Patienten und aktualisierte Information für Ärzte.
Sperm and testicular tissue cryopreservation and assisted reproductive technology outcomes in male cancer patients: a 15-year experience
Authors: Fernández-González Marta J. , Radauer-Plank Anne-Catherine , Stelzer Cornelia , Geiger Waldemar , Goranova Irena , Borgmann-Staudt Anja , Balcerek Magdalena , Wilkemeyer Ina
Published: November 2022

Objective

To explore the characteristics of cancer patients who cryopreserved sperm/testicular tissue samples in the Cryobank of Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin between 2004 and 2019, and the ART utilization rate with associated outcomes.

Methods

Retrospective data were available for 506 cancer patients, of which 46 (9.1%) had used their samples for artificial reproductive technologies (ART). Corresponding cycle information was collected from external fertility centers.

Results

Our cohort included 53/506 (10.5%) patients aged < 18 years at diagnosis. While adolescents and adults mainly banked sperm, adolescents showed higher rates of testicular tissue cryopreservation before (11.8%, 6/51 vs. 6.4%, 26/406) and after treatment (16.7%, 4/24 vs. 7.8%, 13/167). At study conduction, storage had been ended for 44.8% (269/601) of samples. The majority of samples used for ART were requested within the first 3 years after cryopreservation (71.5%, 28/39, range = 0–12 years). Pregnancy rate was 51.4% (19/37 cycles), resulting in 11 singleton births, 3 twin pairs, and 4 miscarriages.

Conclusion

With the new advantage of public health insurance coverage of fertility preservation (FP) in Germany, an increased utilization has already been noticed in our center, emphasizing the necessity of further knowledge for individual counseling. Adolescent cancer patients need to be addressed specifically, as these patients show especially low cryopreservation rates.
The genetics of monogenic intestinal epithelial disorders
Authors: Babcock Stephen J. , Flores-Marin David , Thiagarajah Jay R.
Published: November 2022

Monogenic intestinal epithelial disorders, also known as congenital diarrheas and enteropathies (CoDEs), are a group of rare diseases that result from mutations in genes that primarily affect intestinal epithelial cell function. Patients with CoDE disorders generally present with infantile-onset diarrhea and poor growth, and often require intensive fluid and nutritional management. CoDE disorders can be classified into several categories that relate to broad areas of epithelial function, structure, and development. The advent of accessible and low-cost genetic sequencing has accelerated discovery in the field with over 45 different genes now associated with CoDE disorders. Despite this increasing knowledge in the causal genetics of disease, the underlying cellular pathophysiology remains incompletely understood for many disorders. Consequently, clinical management options for CoDE disorders are currently limited and there is an urgent need for new and disorder-specific therapies. In this review, we provide a general overview of CoDE disorders, including a historical perspective of the field and relationship to other monogenic disorders of the intestine. We describe the genetics, clinical presentation, and known pathophysiology for specific disorders. Lastly, we describe the major challenges relating to CoDE disorders, briefly outline key areas that need further study, and provide a perspective on the future genetic and therapeutic landscape.
Effect of temporary cements and their removal methods on the bond strength of indirect restoration: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ding Jingyu , Jin Yifu , Feng Shanshan , Chen Huan , Hou Yanyan , Zhu Song
Published: November 2022

Objectives

For a conventional indirect restoration, temporary cementation inevitably contaminated collapsed dentin collagen. The purpose of this review was to evaluate the optimal strategy for minimizing its negative effects.

Material and methods

Databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched for in vitro studies, involving the influence of immediate dentin sealing (IDS), different temporary cements, and their removal strategies on dentin bond strength. The meta-analysis used the inverse variance method with effect method of the standardized mean difference and statistical significance atp ≤ 0.05. TheI2value and theQ-test were used to assess the heterogeneity.

Results

A total of 14 in vitro trials were subjected to the meta-analysis. Within the study’s limitations, we assumed that IDS eliminated the negative effects of temporary bonding, achieving the comparable immediate bond strength with the control (p = 0.46). In contrast, under delayed dentin sealing (DDS), temporary cementation statistically decreased bond strength (p = 0.002). Compared with resin-based and non-eugenol zinc oxide cements, polycarboxylate and calcium hydroxide cements performed better on bond strength with no statistical difference from the control group (p > 0.05). Among the removal methods of temporary cements, the Al2O3abrasion restored the decreased bond strength (p = 0.07) and performed better than hand instruments alone (p = 0.04), while pumice removal slightly reduced the bond strength in contrast with the control group (p = 0.05, 95% CI =  − 1.62 to 0).

Conclusions

The choices of IDS, polycarboxylate and calcium hydroxide temporary cements, Al2O3abrasion removal method were feasible and efficient to enhance the bond strength.

Clinical relevance

It is worthwhile applying IDS technique, polycarboxylate and calcium hydroxide temporary cements during indirect restoration. The Al2O3abrasion of cleaning dentin can minimize the negative effects of temporary cement.
Selective mutism and the risk of mental and neurodevelopmental disorders among siblings
Authors: Koskela Miina , Jokiranta-Olkoniemi Elina , Luntamo Terhi , Suominen Auli , Sourander Andre , Steinhausen Hans-Christoph
Published: November 2022

The siblings of children with mental disorders are more likely to experience mental health issues themselves, but there has been a lack of sibling studies on selective mutism (SM). The aim of this population-based study was to use national registers to examine associations between children with SM and diagnoses of various mental disorder in their siblings. All singleton children born in Finland from 1987 to 2009, and diagnosed with SM from 1998 to 2012, were identified from national health registers and matched with four controls by age and sex. Their biological siblings and parents were identified using national registries and the diagnostic information on the siblings of the subjects and controls was obtained. The final analyses comprised 658 children with SM and their 1661 siblings and 2092 controls with 4120 siblings. The analyses were conducted using generalized estimating equations. Mental disorders were more common among the siblings of the children with SM than among the siblings of the controls. The strongest associations were observed for childhood emotional disorders and autism spectrum disorders after the data were adjusted for covariates and comorbid diagnoses among SM subjects. The final model showed associations between SM and a wide range of disorders in siblings, with strongest associations with disorders that usually have their onset during childhood. Our finding showed that SM clustered with other mental disorders in siblings and this requires further research, especially the association between SM and autism spectrum disorders. Strong associations with childhood onset disorders may indicate shared etiologies.
Evidence of karstification in chalk and limestone aquifers connected with stream systems and possible relation with the fish ecological quality ratio in Denmark
Authors: Nilsson Bertel , Li Fulin , Chen Huawei , Sebok Eva , Henriksen Hans Jørgen
Published: November 2022

Although chalk aquifers are not too often associated with conduit flow, they are highly productive groundwater systems and, like limestone aquifers, they can be vulnerable to contamination when exposed to land use activities. The Danish carbonate rocks are generally recognized to be highly fractured and covered by thick Quaternary sediments. Fissure flow is pronounced, occurring in the upper 50–100 m due to Pleistocene glaciations. According to recently published maps of the distribution of karst in Europe, Denmark has no karst. However, this study concludes that karstified chalk and limestone aquifers are an important source of freshwater in Denmark. Four national datasets on karst features, groundwater flow, groundwater chemistry, and fish ecological quality ratio (EQR) data now indicate more heterogeneous structures and preferential flow pathways in the chalk and limestone aquifers than had been conceptualized and modelled with a national water resources groundwater/surface-water model in the recent past. This study provides new qualitative evidence that rapid and preferential flow of water and agrochemicals from the surface through thinner parts of the Quaternary cover layers, sinkholes and solution-enlarged fractures may likely impact the vulnerability of chalk and limestone aquifers. Additionally, due to the preferential flow system, some gaining streams discharged by karstified chalk and limestone aquifers show increased fish EQR values when using observed river daily discharge data instead of simulated daily discharge.
Impact of clinical pharmacist discharge prescription review on the appropriateness of antibiotic therapy: a retrospective comparison
Authors: Spigelmyer Amy , Howard Catessa , Rybakov Ilya , Burwell Sheena , Slain Douglas
Published: November 2022

Background

Inappropriate antibiotic prescribing upon hospital discharge has been identified as a significant problem. Despite high rates of antibiotic prescription errors, there is no widely accepted antimicrobial stewardship initiative to prevent such errors.

Aim

The primary objective of this study was to determine the impact of hospital-based clinical pharmacist discharge prescription review on the appropriateness of antibiotic prescriptions.

Method

This was an observational study comparing the appropriateness of hospital discharge antibiotic prescriptions between two similar internal medicine services. One cohort of patients was admitted to medicine services where rounding clinical pharmacists performed routine antibiotic discharge assessment, and the comparator cohort was admitted to hospitalist services without routine pharmacist discharge antibiotic review.

Results

Our study included 150 cases per cohort. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups, except for increased age (p = 0.025) and fewer cases of acute bacterial skin & skin structure infections (p = 0.001) in the hospitalist cohort. Antibiotic appropriateness was considerably greater in the medicine (pharmacist) group versus hospitalist group [(83% versus 54%, respectively (p < 0.00001)]. The difference in appropriateness was mainly driven by pneumonia and urinary tract infection prescriptions.

Conclusion

Appropriateness of antibiotic prescriptions significantly improved in the setting of pharmacist discharge review. This initiative highlights the important role of clinical pharmacists in outpatient antimicrobial stewardship.
Working from home for good? Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and what this means for the future of work
Authors: Kagerl Christian , Starzetz Julia
Published: November 2022

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, more firms than ever before have enabled their employees to work from home. Based on a representative firm survey in Germany, surveying 2.000 firms per month throughout the course of the pandemic (October 2020 until June 2022), this paper provides suggestive evidence concerning the effects of working from home (WFH) at different points in time during the pandemic and discusses implications for the future of work. We assess the potential of WFH in Germany to be 25–30% of private-sector employees. On the firm side, we find that higher WFH use is positively related to business success during the crisis, with increased employee productivity and employees working more hours when remote being possible mechanisms. Larger firms in particular are open towards expanding their WFH offerings in the future. During the pandemic, firms have experienced that WFH has worked well in many respects (e.g., productivity of employees, quality of work performed) and, for the future, they are willing to facilitate WFH in order to give their employees more flexibility, and to be considered an attractive employer. However, working on site brings advantages (e.g., communication, cooperation and onboarding of new employees) firms will not want to sacrifice, pointing towards a hybrid model of work.