bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alpha-lipoic acid attenuates heat stress-induced apoptosis via upregulating the heat shock response in porcine parthenotes
Authors: Lee Song-Hee , Sun Ming-Hong , Jiang Wen-Jie , Li Xiao-Han , Heo Geun , Zhou Dongjie , Chen Zhi , Cui Xiang-Shun
Published: May 2023

Heat stress (HS) is a long-standing hurdle that animals face in the living environment. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a strong antioxidant synthesized by plants and animals. The present study evaluated the mechanism of ALA action in HS-induced early porcine parthenotes development. Parthenogenetically activated porcine oocytes were divided into three groups: control, high temperature (HT) (42 °C for 10 h), and HT + ALA (with 10 µM ALA). The results show that HT treatment significantly reduced the blastocyst formation rate compared to the control. The addition of ALA partially restored the development and improved the quality of blastocysts. Moreover, supplementation with ALA not only induced lower levels of reactive oxygen species and higher glutathione levels but also markedly reduced the expression of glucose regulatory protein 78. The protein levels of heat shock factor 1 and heat shock protein 40 were higher in the HT + ALA group, which suggests activation of the heat shock response. The addition of ALA reduced the expression of caspase 3 and increased the expression of B-cell lymphoma-extra-large protein. Collectively, this study revealed that ALA supplementation ameliorated HS-induced apoptosis by suppressing oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stresses via activating the heat shock response, which improved the quality of HS-exposed porcine parthenotes.
Pan-cancer analysis reveals the prognostic and immunotherapeutic value of cytoskeleton-associated protein 2-like
Authors: Yi Bocun , Fu Qingfeng , Zheng Zhiwen , Zhang Man , Liu Dongze , Liang Zhengxin , Xu Shengxian , Zhang Zhihong
Published: May 2023

Cytoskeleton-associated protein 2-like (CKAP2L), a cell cycle-related protein, is correlated to tumor progression in some tumors. But there were no pan-cancer studies on CKAP2L, and its role in cancer immunotherapy is also unclear. The expression levels, expression activity, genomic alterations, DNA methylation and functions of CKAP2L in various tumors, as well as the associations between CKAP2L expression and patient prognosis, chemotherapy sensitivity, and tumor immune microenvironment, were all analyzed in a comprehensive pan-cancer analysis of CKAP2L by various databases, analysis websites, and R software. The experiments were also conducted to verify the analysis results. In the majority of cancers, CKAP2L expression and activity were markedly elevated. Elevated CKAP2L expression led to poor prognostic outcomes in patients, and is an independent risk factor for most tumors. Elevated CKAP2L causes decreased sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents. Knockdown of CKAP2L significantly inhibited the proliferation and metastasis capacity of the KIRC cell lines and resulted in cell cycle G2/M arrest. In addition, CKAP2L was closely related to immune subtypes, immune cell infiltration, immunomodulators and immunotherapy markers (TMB, MSI), patients with high CKAP2L expression were more sensitive to immunotherapy in the IMvigor210 cohort. The results indicate that CKAP2L is a pro-cancer gene that serves as a potential biomarker for predicting patient outcomes. By inducing cells to transition from the G2 phase to the M phase, CKAP2L may promote cell proliferation and metastasis. Furthermore, CKAP2L is closely related to the tumor immune microenvironment and can be used as a biomarker to predict tumor immunotherapy.
Soft climbing robot with magnetic feet for multimodal locomotion
Authors: Park Gijun , Rodrigue Hugo
Published: May 2023

Inspection robots that can be used to inspect man-made structures have significant potential for industrial applications, but existing soft robots are not well suited for the exploration of complex metallic structures with many obstacles. This paper proposes a soft climbing robot well suited for such conditions as the robot uses feet with a controllable magnetic adhesion. It uses soft inflatable actuators to control this adhesion as well as the deformation of the body. The proposed robot consists of a robot body that can bend and lengthen, robot feet that can magnetically adhere to and detach from metallic surface, and rotational joints connecting each foot to the body to give the robot additional flexibility. It combines extensional soft actuators for the deformation of the body and contractile linear actuators for the robot feet, and the robot can produce complex deformations of the body that allow it to overcome a variety of scenarios. The capabilities of the proposed robot were verified through the implementation of three scenarios on metallic surfaces: crawling, climbing, and transitioning between surfaces. The robots could crawl or climb nearly interchangeably, could transition to and from horizontal surfaces to either upward or downward vertical surfaces.
Modeling, optimization and efficient use of MMT K10 nanoclay for Pb (II) removal using RSM, ANN and GA
Authors: Hamidi Farshad , Baghani Abbas Norouzian , Kasraee Mahboobeh , Salari Mehdi , Mehdinejad Mohammad Hadi
Published: May 2023

Regarding the long-term toxic effects of Pb (II) ions on human health and its bioaccumulation property, taking measures for its reduction in the environment is necessary. The MMT-K10 (montmorillonite-k10) nanoclay was characterized by XRD, XRF, BET, FESEM, and FTIR. The effects of pH, initial concentrations, reaction time, and adsorbent dosage were studied. The experimental design study was carried out with RSM-BBD method. Results prediction and optimization were investigated with RSM and artificial neural network (ANN)-genetic algorithm (GA) respectively. The RSM results showed that the experimental data followed the quadratic model with the highest regression coefficient value (R2 = 0.9903) and insignificant lack of fit (0.2426) showing the validity of the Quadratic model. The optimal adsorption conditions were obtained at pH 5.44, adsorbent = 0.98 g/l, concentration of Pb (II) ions = 25 mg/L, and reaction time = 68 min. Similar optimization results were observed by RSM and artificial neural network-genetic algorithm methods. The experimental data revealed that the process followed the Langmuir isotherm and the maximum adsorption capacity was 40.86 mg/g. Besides, the kinetic data indicated that the results fitted with the pseudo-second-order model. Hence, the MMT-K10 nanoclay can be a suitable adsorbent due to having a natural source, simple and inexpensive preparation, and high adsorption capacity.
P2X7 receptor antagonism by AZ10606120 significantly reduced in vitro tumour growth in human glioblastoma
Authors: Kan Liyen K. , Drill Matthew , Jayakrishnan Padmakrishnan C. , Sequeira Richard P. , Galea Emily , Todaro Marian , Sanfilippo Paul G. , Hunn Martin , Williams David A. , O’Brien Terence J. , Drummond Katharine J. , Monif Mastura
Published: May 2023

Glioblastomas are highly aggressive and deadly brain tumours, with a median survival time of 14–18 months post-diagnosis. Current treatment modalities are limited and only modestly increase survival time. Effective therapeutic alternatives are urgently needed. The purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is activated within the glioblastoma microenvironment and evidence suggests it contributes to tumour growth. Studies have implicated P2X7R involvement in a range of neoplasms, including glioblastomas, although the roles of P2X7R in the tumour milieu remain unclear. Here, we report a trophic, tumour-promoting role of P2X7R activation in both patient-derived primary glioblastoma cultures and the U251 human glioblastoma cell line, and demonstrate its inhibition reduces tumour growth in vitro. Primary glioblastoma and U251 cell cultures were treated with the specific P2X7R antagonist, AZ10606120 (AZ), for 72 h. The effects of AZ treatment were also compared to cells treated with the current first-line chemotherapeutic drug, temozolomide (TMZ), and a combination of both AZ and TMZ. P2X7R antagonism by AZ significantly depleted glioblastoma cell numbers compared to untreated cells, in both primary glioblastoma and U251 cultures. Notably, AZ treatment was more effective at tumour cell killing than TMZ. No synergistic effect between AZ and TMZ was observed. AZ treatment also significantly increased lactate dehydrogenase release in primary glioblastoma cultures, suggesting AZ-induced cellular cytotoxicity. Our results reveal a trophic role of P2X7R in glioblastoma. Importantly, these data highlight the potential for P2X7R inhibition as a novel and effective alternative therapeutic approach for patients with lethal glioblastomas.
Revisiting the origin of the bending in group 2 metallocenes AeCp2 (Ae = Be–Ba)
Authors: Sergeieva Tetiana , Demirer T. Ilgin , Wuttke Axel , Mata Ricardo A. , Schäfer André , Linker Gerrit-Jan , Andrada Diego M.
Published: May 2023

Metallocenes are well-established compounds in organometallic chemistry, which can exhibit either a coplanar structure or a bent structure according to the nature of the metal center (E) and cyclopentadienyl ligands (Cp).
Nanoscale heterogeneity of arsenic and selenium species in coal fly ash particles: analysis using enhanced spectroscopic imaging and speciation techniques
Authors: Rivera Nelson A. , Ling Florence T. , Jin Zehao , Pattammattel Ajith , Yan Hanfei , Chu Yong S. , Peters Catherine A. , Hsu-Kim Heileen
Published: May 2023

Arsenic and selenium in coal fly ash are heterogeneously distributed at the nanoscale, explaining why the leaching of these elements is not readily predicted by bulk- or micron-scale element speciation methods.
Electrochemical oxidation-induced benzylic C(sp3)–H functionalization towards the atom-economic synthesis of oxazole heterocycles
Authors: Yang Na , Li Anni , Gao Hui , Liao Li-Mei , Yang Yu-Ping , Wang Pei-Long , Li Hongji
Published: May 2023

A unique electrochemical four-component reaction of terminal alkynes, (thio)xanthenes, nitriles, and water has been established in the absence of any catalyst or external oxidant.
Step-growth polymerization by the RAFT process
Authors: Tanaka Joji , Li Jiajia , Clouthier Samantha Marie , You Wei
Published: May 2023

RAFT step-growth polymerization is an emerging method that synergistically combines the benefits of RAFT polymerization (functional group and user-friendly nature) and step-growth polymerization (versatility of the polymer backbone).
Synthesis of high yield, crystalline and thermally stable rare earth (Sm, Eu, Gd) oxide square nanoplates for near-infrared light activatable photocatalysis
Authors: Rajagopal Sanjeevan , Thangudu Suresh , Hwang Kuo Chu
Published: May 2023

In this work, high-purity rare earth oxide (REO) square nanoplates (SNPs) were fabricated and their near-infrared light-activated photocatalytic properties were investigated for pollutant degradation.
Super-resolution imaging of linearized chromatin in tunable nanochannels
Authors: Lee Ji-Hoon , Chiu Joyce Han-Ching , Ginga Nicholas J. , Ahmed Tasdiq , Thouless M. D. , Liu Yifan , Takayama Shuichi
Published: May 2023

The research work reports on the nanofluidic linearization and multi-color dSTORM super-resolution imaging of nativeTetrahymena nucleosomes.
Titanium dioxide-modified nanosized TS-1 zeolite-supported phosphotungstic acid as a catalyst for deep catalytic oxidative desulfurization of fuel oil
Authors: Bi Mingli , Guo Ying , Wang Siyue , Zhang Bingxue , Jiang Yu’ni , Li Haonan , Xu Qingxin , Chen Lidong , Zhao Qi , Han Na
Published: May 2023

A highly efficient catalyst for the simultaneous catalytic oxidation of bulky and small-molecule sulfides was designed in this work.
FeMnC complex derived from hollow FeMn PBA precursor for highly efficient microwave absorption
Authors: Miao Peng , Chen Weixing , Zhou Dong , Zhu Keji , Zhang Jianing , Kong Jie
Published: May 2023

An efficient fabrication process of a core–shell FeMnC complex with irregular interfaces derived from hollow FeMn PBA precursors as templates via coprecipitation and hydrothermal reactions can enhance interfacial polarization loss.
Macroporous polyHIPE modified with β-cyclodextrin for the removal of bisphenol A from water
Authors: Wang Chunyao , Chen Xiangnan , Yuan Weizhong , Zhou Mengdie
Published: May 2023

Macroporous polyHIPE-g-poly(glycidyl methacrylate)-β-cyclodextrin (PHIPE-g-PGMA-β-CD) is prepared and used for the removal of bisphenol A from water.
A rationale for the rapid extraction of ultra-low-level uranyl ions in simulated bioassays regulated by Mn-dopants over magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Mandal P. , Sawant P. D. , Bhattacharyya K.
Published: May 2023

MNP & Mn-MNP, with very high Kd value (∼3 × 106) & very low t1/2 (∼0.9 min) to be utilized for separation of ultra-low level uranyl ions from bioassays. Realizes uranyl ion interaction over diverse adsorption sites regulating MNP sorption behaviour.
Enhanced volatile fatty acid production from waste activated sludge by urea hydrogen peroxide: performance and mechanisms
Authors: Wang Siyi , Jiang Tianbing , Chen Xiaoguo , Xiong Kai , Wang Yanzhe
Published: May 2023

Urea hydrogen peroxide pretreatment promoted the production of volatile fatty acids during anaerobic fermentation by enhancing the hydrolysis of waste activated sludge.
Stoichiometry matters: correlation between antisite defects, microstructure and magnetic behavior in the cathode material Li1−zNi1+zO2
Authors: Goonetilleke Damian , Schwarz Björn , Li Hang , Fauth Francois , Suard Emmanuelle , Mangold Stefan , Indris Sylvio , Brezesinski Torsten , Bianchini Matteo , Weber Daniel
Published: May 2023

Using synchrotron X-ray and neutron diffraction, NMR and magnetometry techniques, this study reveals how point defects evolve and critically affect particle growth and magnetic properties in the cathode material Li1−zNi1+zO2 (−0.05 ≤ z ≤ 0.35).
Opportunities and challenges of zinc anodes in rechargeable aqueous batteries
Authors: Guo Xiaoxia , He Guanjie
Published: May 2023

This review summarizes the fundamental understanding of issues and strategies on the zinc anode. The electrolyte engineering is discussed. Techniques applied on analysing the interaction between anodes and electrolytes are summarized.
Bandgap engineering of MXene compounds for water splitting
Authors: Ontiveros Diego , Viñes Francesc , Sousa Carmen
Published: May 2023

Engineering the bandgap of O-terminated MXenes for photocatalytic water splitting reveals Zr2CO2 as a suitable photocatalyst.
Tunable near-infrared piezochromic luminescence by effective substituent modification of D–A structures
Authors: Liu Jianxun , Du Guoshuai , Liang Ning , Yang Li , Feng Yansong , Chen Yabin , Yao Chang-Jiang
Published: May 2023

Tunable NIR piezochromic luminescence was achieved by the substitute modification of D–A structures. More than 200 nm red-shifted emission is realized under high pressure, while the unsubstituted TPAM is blue-shifted during the compression process.
The role of glycosaminoglycan modification in Hedgehog regulated tissue morphogenesis
Authors: Gude Fabian , Froese Jurij , Steffes Georg , Grobe Kay
Published: May 2023

Patterns of gene expression, cell growth and cell-type specification during development are often regulated by morphogens. Morphogens are signalling molecules produced by groups of source cells located tens to hundreds of micrometers distant from the responding tissue and are thought to regulate the fate of receiving cells in a direct, concentration-dependent manner. The mechanisms that underlie scalable yet robust morphogen spread to form the activity gradient, however, are not well understood and are currently intensely debated. Here, based on two recent publications, we review two in vivo derived concepts of regulated gradient formation of the morphogen Hedgehog (Hh). In the first concept, Hh disperses on the apical side of developing epithelial surfaces using the same mechanistic adaptations of molecular transport that DNA-binding proteins in the nucleus use. In the second concept, Hh is actively conveyed to target cells via long filopodial extensions, called cytonemes. Both concepts require the expression of a family of sugar-modified proteins in the gradient field called heparan sulphate proteoglycans as a prerequisite for Hh dispersal, yet propose different — direct versus indirect — roles of these essential extracellular modulators.
Differential functions of the KRAS splice variants
Authors: Kochen Rossi Juan , Nuevo-Tapioles Cristina , Philips Mark R.
Published: May 2023

RAS proteins are small GTPases that transduce signals from membrane receptors to signaling pathways that regulate growth and differentiation. Four RAS proteins are encoded by three genes — HRAS, KRAS, NRAS. Among them, KRAS is mutated in human cancer more frequently than any other oncogene. The KRAS pre-mRNA is alternatively spliced to generate two transcripts, KRAS4A and KRAS4B, that encode distinct proto-oncoproteins that differ almost exclusively in their C-terminal hypervariable regions (HVRs) that controls subcellular trafficking and membrane association. The KRAS4A isoform arose 475 million years ago in jawed vertebrates and has persisted in all vertebrates ever since, strongly suggesting non-overlapping functions of the splice variants. Because KRAS4B is expressed at higher levels in most tissues, it has been considered the principal KRAS isoform. However, emerging evidence for KRAS4A expression in tumors and splice variant–specific interactions and functions have sparked interest in this gene product. Among these findings, the KRAS4A-specific regulation of hexokinase I is a stark example. The aim of this mini-review is to provide an overview of the origin and differential functions of the two splice variants of KRAS.
Reconfiguration of harmonic polluted distribution network using modified discrete particle swarm optimization equipped with smart radial method
Authors: Rahimipour Behbahani Milad , Jalilian Alireza
Published: May 2023

Distribution network reconfiguration (DNR) is capable to improve indices of power systems by changing the distribution network (DN) topology under normal conditions. Here, DNR is implemented to improve the power quality (PQ) and power losses of DN. Furthermore, to achieve better optimum in DNR, discrete particle swarm optimization (DPSO) algorithm is equipped with a smart radial method. The proposed algorithm is faster than other metaheuristic methods due to the prevention of regeneration non‐radial configurations. In addition, the algorithm increases the probability of finding the optimal configurations using the mutation function. The results clearly demonstrated the positive effect of DNR in improving harmonic losses, total harmonic distortion (THD), and power losses. Furthermore, the proposed method is compared with other metaheuristic algorithms in IEEE 33 bus DN, IEEE 69 bus DN, and real 95‐bus DN in presence of photovoltaic (PV). The results show that the developed algorithm leads to the better or same accuracy and speed in all comparisons. In addition, results indicated that considering the summation of fundamental and harmonic losses compared to only fundamental losses in DNR can lead to further energy saving in DNs.
Numerical simulation using in the preparation process of micron‐sized silica–aluminium composite powders by high‐energy alloying: Building visualisation and guiding preparation
Authors: Guo Zhen‐yu , Zhang Xin , Wang Yan‐jun , Zhang Si‐yuan , Yin Yin
Published: May 2023

Silica‐aluminium composite powders are important precursors for the preparation of sealant coatings by supersonic flame spraying. Micron‐scale silica‐aluminium composite powders can be prepared using a planetary ball mill, but powder agglomeration often leads to composite failure. Using relevant modelling software to build the 3D modelling of the ball mill jar, which based on the discrete element method, using the Hertz–Mindlin contact model and after specifying the simulation boundary conditions, the ball mill process was simulated and analysed. Visualise the influence of important process parameters such as frequency, size and diameter of milling balls and ball‐to‐powder weight ratio, and systematically analyse the microscopic morphology and composite condition of the agglomerated and dispersed powders. The results show that the ball motion during the ball milling process is mainly divided into three representative types: ball–ball impact, ball crushing motion against the jar wall and ball–wall impact. The energy transfer efficiency of the milling balls to the powder system is highest when the ratio of the three types of motion is uniform. SEM images and EDS spectra showed that the aluminium powder was sufficiently crushed, with an average particle size below 1 μm. The aluminium powder was uniformly distributed on the surface of the silicon powder, and the particle size of the composite silicon aggregates was sufficiently reduced.
A machine learning algorithm for reliably predicting active galactic nucleus absorbing column densities
Authors: Silver R. , Torres-Albà N. , Zhao X. , Marchesi S. , Pizzetti A. , Cox I. , Ajello M.
Published: May 2023

We present a new method for predicting the line-of-sight column density (NH) values of active galactic nuclei (AGN) based on mid-infrared (MIR), soft X-ray, and hard X-ray data. We developed a multiple linear regression machine learning algorithm trained with WISE colors, Swift-BAT count rates, soft X-ray hardness ratios, and an MIR–soft X-ray flux ratio. Our algorithm was trained off 451 AGN from the Swift-BAT sample with known NH and has the ability to accurately predict NH values for AGN of all levels of obscuration, as evidenced by its Spearman correlation coefficient value of 0.86 and its 75% classification accuracy. This is significant as few other methods can be reliably applied to AGN with Log(NH < 22.5). It was determined that the two soft X-ray hardness ratios and the MIR–soft X-ray flux ratio were the largest contributors toward accurate NH determinations. We applied the algorithm to 487 AGN from the BAT 150 Month catalog with no previously measured NH values. This algorithm will continue to contribute significantly to finding Compton-thick (CT) AGN (NH ≥ 1024 cm−2), thus enabling us to determine the true intrinsic fraction of CT-AGN in the local Universe and their contribution to the cosmic X-ray background.
Laboratory experiments on the sublimation of methane through ice dust layers and applications to cometary activity
Authors: Tamai Carla , Maté Belén , Cazaux Stéphanie , Satorre Miguel Ángel
Published: May 2023

Context. Comets are small celestial bodies made of ice, dust, and rock that orbit the Sun. Understanding their behavior as they warm up at perihelion unveils many pieces of information about the interior and general morphology of the ices hidden under the dust.

Aims. The goal of this research is to study the sublimation of CH4 through amorphous solid water (ASW), with a focus on the structural changes in water and the influence of a layer of indene (as a proxy of the crust) during a period of thermal processing, which we use in a controlled laboratory setting to simulate cometary environments.

Methods. Ices at a CH4/H2O abundance ratio of about 0.01 are deposited and layered, or co-deposited, at 30 K and are heated until 200 K (or 140 K) with a ramp of either 1 or 5 K min−1. We use mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy to analyze the results.

Results. Depending on the heating ramp and type of deposition, the sublimation of methane through ASW varies, being lower in intensity and higher in temperature when the co-deposited structure is considered. When two temperature cycles are applied, the second one sees less intense CH4 desorptions. When indene is placed above the ice mixtures, we find that the thicker its layer, the later the methane desorption. However, this later desorption sees a greater quantity of methane released due to water reorganization and higher desorbed material pressure.

Conclusions. The structural changes of water ice drive volatile and hyper-volatile desorption because of the transition from high to low intrinsic density and transformation from amorphous to crystalline. This desorption indicates that such material has been deposited at low temperatures in agreement with previous theories on cometary ices formed in the pre-stellar cloud. During the two temperature cycles of our experiments, most of the released material is seen to be pristine and the processed part, if any, is of a negligible quantity, in agreement with dust-rock cometary studies.
Molecular phylogeny of Psychodopygina (Diptera, Psychodidae) supporting morphological systematics of this group of vectors of New World tegumentary leishmaniasis
Authors: Zapata Sonia , Galati Eunice A.B. , Chaves Jaime A. , Artigas Patricio , Gantier Jean-Charles , Bargues Maria Dolores , Mas-Coma Santiago , Depaquit Jérôme
Published: May 2023

New World sandflies are vectors of leishmaniasis, bartonellosis, and some arboviruses. A classification based on 88 morphological characters was proposed 27 years ago when the New World phlebotomines were organized into two tribes Hertigiini and Phlebotomini. The latter was structured into four subtribes (Brumptomyiina, Sergentomyiina, Lutzomyiina, and Psychodopygina) and 20 genera. The subtribe Psychodopygina, including most of the American vectors of tegumentaryLeishmaniacomprises seven genera from which no molecular work has been produced to support this classification. Here, we carried out a molecular phylogeny based on combined sequences (1,334 bp) of two genes: partial 28S rDNA and mtDNA cytochromebfrom 47 taxa belonging to the Psychodopygina. The Bayesian phylogenetic reconstruction agreed with the classification based on morphological characters, supporting the monophyly of the generaPsychodopygusandPsathyromyia,whereasNyssomyiaandTrichophoromyiaseemed to be paraphyletic. The paraphylies of the two latter groups were exclusively caused by the doubtful position of the speciesNy. richardwardi. Our molecular analysis provides additional support to adopt the morphologic classification of Psychodopygina.
A hybrid genetic algorithm for stochastic job-shop scheduling problems
Authors: Boukedroun Mohammed , Duvivier David , Ait-el-Cadi Abdessamad , Poirriez Vincent , Abbas Moncef
Published: May 2023

Job-shop scheduling problems are among most studied problems in last years because of their importance for industries and manufacturing processes. They are classified as NP-hard problems in the strong sense. In order to tackle these problems several models and methods have been used. In this paper, we propose a hybrid metaheuristic composed of a genetic algorithm and a tabu search algorithm to solve the stochastic job-shop scheduling problem. Our contribution is based on a study of the perturbations that affect the processing times of the jobs. These perturbations, due to machine failures, occur according to a Poisson process; the results of our approach are validated on a set of instances originating from the OR-Library (Beasley,J. Oper. Res. Soc.41(1990) 1069–1072). On the basis of these instances, the hybrid metaheuristic is used to solve the stochastic job-shop scheduling problem with the objective of minimizing the makespan as first objective and the number of critical operations as second objective during the robustness analysis. Indeed, the results show that a high value of the number of critical operations is linked to high variations of the makespan of the perturbed schedules, or in other words to a weak robustness of the relating GA’s best schedule. Consequently, critical operations are not only good targets for optimizing a schedule, but also a clue of its goodness when considering stochastic and robustness aspects: the less critical operations it contains, the better it is.
First 3D hybrid-Vlasov global simulation of auroral proton precipitation and comparison with satellite observations
Authors: Grandin Maxime , Luttikhuis Thijs , Battarbee Markus , Cozzani Giulia , Zhou Hongyang , Turc Lucile , Pfau-Kempf Yann , George Harriet , Horaites Konstantinos , Gordeev Evgeny , Ganse Urs , Papadakis Konstantinos , Alho Markku , Tesema Fasil , Suni Jonas , Dubart Maxime , Tarvus Vertti , Palmroth Minna
Published: May 2023

The precipitation of charged particles from the magnetosphere into the ionosphere is one of the crucial coupling mechanisms between these two regions of geospace and is associated with multiple space weather effects, such as global navigation satellite system signal disruption and geomagnetically induced currents at ground level. While precipitating particle fluxes have been measured by numerous spacecraft missions over the past decades, it often remains difficult to obtain global precipitation patterns with a good time resolution during a substorm. Numerical simulations can help to bridge this gap and improve the understanding of mechanisms leading to particle precipitation at high latitudes through the global view they offer on the near-Earth space system. We present the first results on auroral (0.5–50 keV) proton precipitation within a 3-dimensional simulation of the Vlasiator hybrid-Vlasov model. The run is driven by southward interplanetary magnetic field conditions with constant solar wind parameters. We find that on the dayside, cusp proton precipitation exhibits the expected energy–latitude dispersion and takes place in the form of successive bursts associated with the transit of flux transfer events formed through dayside magnetopause reconnection. On the nightside, the precipitation takes place within the expected range of geomagnetic latitudes, and it appears clearly that the precipitating particle injection is taking place within a narrow magnetic local time span, associated with fast Earthward plasma flows in the near-Earth magnetotail. Finally, the simulated precipitating fluxes are compared to observations from Defense Meteorological Satellite Program spacecraft during driving conditions similar to those in the simulation and are found to be in good agreement with the measurements.
Halsstraffung – für jeden Hals die optimale lokale
Technik
Authors: Borsche André , Lemperle Gottfried
Published: May 2023

Eine Vielzahl Patienten stört nur der Hals, sei es ein leichtes
Doppelkinn, ein Fetthals, die auffälligen medialen
Platysma-Stränge oder ein richtiger „turkey gobbler“.
Für jede dieser Indikationen gibt es eine geeignete Operationsmethode,
die Alter und Vorstellung der Patienten, aber auch die Beschaffenheit der Haut,
deren Fettgehalt, und die Ausprägung der Falten im ganzen Gesicht und am
Hals in Betracht zieht. Hier werden 8 verschiedene moderne Techniken
vorgestellt, die einzeln, aber auch in Kombination durchgeführt,
für jeden Patienten individuell ausgewählt werden
können. 1. Ein „angedeutetes Doppelkinn“ wird abgesaugt
2. Ein „ausgeprägtes Doppelkinn“ wird horizontal
exzidiert 3. Ein „reiner Fetthals“ wird abgesaugt und die Haut
exzidiert 4. „Lockere Halshaut“ wird vertikal exzidiert oder als
Facelift gestrafft 5. Ein ausgeprägter “Truthahnhals“
wird vertikal exzidiert oder als vertikales Facelift gestrafft
Acute Abdomen in an Extremely Low-Birth-Weight Preterm Neonate: A
Case of Appendicitis
Authors: Kostekci Yasemin Ezgi , Ocak Buse Onen , Ekiyor Ege , Gucenmez Kader , Demirtas Ferhan , Ergun Ergun , Mehdilli Aysel , Bahadir Gulnur Gollu , Okulu Emel , Erdeve Ömer , Arsan Saadet , Atasay Begum
Published: May 2023

Introduction Neonatal appendicitis is a very rare surgical entity.
Non-specific symptoms such as feeding intolerance, abdominal distension,
vomiting, increased gastric residue, lethargy, and fever may be present. The
majority of reported cases could not be identified early. In this report, we
present an extremely low-birth-weight preterm neonate who has been diagnosed
with appendicitis.

Case Presentation A 980-gram preterm baby girl was born at 31 1/7
weeks of gestation. The physical examination was normal at birth. Her initial
clinical course was uneventful. On the 7th day of life, she developed
abdominal distention and tenderness. She had an episode of bloody stools and
bilious vomiting. An abdominal X-ray suggested localized perforation in the
cecum with an air-fluid level in the right lower quadrant. The clinical findings
suggested necrotizing enterocolitis and perforation, and a diagnostic laparotomy
was performed. The bowel was found to be normal with a necrotic appendix. The
appendectomy was performed. She was discharged from the neonatal intensive care
unit with no complications.

Conclusion Appendicitis is extremely rare in the neonatal period. It is
quite challenging to evaluate the presentation accurately, which causes a delay
in diagnosis. However, if an atypical NEC or peritonitis is present,
appendicitis should be considered. Early diagnosis and timely surgical
intervention improve the prognosis of neonatal appendicitis.
Die Krebsregistermeldung aus der Sicht der Deutschen Uro-Onkologen (d-uo)
Authors: Doehn Christian , Johannsen Manfred , Eichenauer Rolf , Klier Jörg , König Frank , Schröder Jörg , Hempel Elke , Schönfelder Robert
Published: May 2023

Die „aktuelle“ Krebsregistermeldung, wie sie im Jahr 2015 in Deutschland verpflichtend eingeführt wurde, hat ihren Ausgangpunkt auch im Nationalen Krebsplan aus dem Jahr 2008. Weitere Meilensteine sind das Bundeskrebsregisterdatengesetz (2009), das Krebsfrüherkennungs- und -registergesetz (2013), der einheitliche Onkologische Basisdatensatz (2014/2021) mit den Modulen (z.B. Modul Prostatakarzinom 2017) sowie das Gesetz zur Zusammenführung von Krebsregisterdaten (2021).

Deutsche Uro-Onkologen (d-uo) hatten bereits Anfang 2017 die Idee, eine Dokumentationsplattform zu konzipieren, mit der die Mitglieder von d-uo einerseits die Meldung an das Krebsregister ermöglicht wird und andererseits Daten in die eigene Datenbank von d-uo überführt werden können – ohne doppelten Aufwand. Das Krebsregister vergütet die Erstmeldung einer Tumorerkrankung mit 18€. Als weiterhin einziger Anbieter vergütet d-uo seinen Mitgliedern den mit der zusätzlichen Meldung an d-uo verbunden Dokumentationsaufwand mit weiteren 18€.

Zusätzlich zum Onkologischen Basisdatensatz wurden weitere Parameter von d-uo definiert. Diese Daten werden im Rahmen der sogenannten VERSUS-Studie erhoben, ausgewertet und interpretiert. Die Erkenntnis, dass die Parameter des Basisdatensatzes in ihrer Aussagefähigkeit limitiert sind, hat seitens d-uo zur Etablierung der beiden Nationalen Register Urothelkarzinom (UroNAT) und Prostatakarzinom (ProNAT) geführt.

Damit unterstreicht d-uo seine führende Position in der uro-onkologischen Versorgungsforschung in Deutschland.
Predicting Spontaneous Labor beyond 39 Weeks among Low-Risk Expectantly Managed Pregnant Patients
Authors: Sanusi Ayodeji , Ye Yuanfan , Battarbee Ashley N. , Sinkey Rachel , Pearlman Rebecca , Beitel Danyon , Szychowski Jeff M. , Tita Alan T. N. , Subramaniam Akila
Published: May 2023

Objectives The aim of the study was to identify the characteristics associated with spontaneous labor onset in pregnant patients undergoing expectant management at greater than 39 weeks' gestation and delineate perinatal outcomes associated with spontaneous labor compared with labor induction.

Study Design This was a retrospective cohort study of singleton pregnancies at ≥390/7 weeks' gestation delivered at a single center in 2013. The exclusion criteria were elective induction, cesarean delivery or presence of a medical indication for delivery at 39 weeks, more than one prior cesarean delivery, and fetal anomaly or demise. We evaluated prenatally available maternal characteristics as potential predictors of the primary outcome-spontaneous labor onset. Multivariable logistic regression was used to generate two parsimonious models: one with and one without third trimester cervical dilation. We also performed sensitivity analysis by parity and timing of cervical examination, and compared the mode of delivery and other secondary outcomes between patients who went into spontaneous labor and those who did not.

Results Of 707 eligible patients, 536 (75.8%) attained spontaneous labor and 171 (24.2%) did not. In the first model, maternal body mass index (BMI), parity, and substance use were identified as the most predictive factors. Overall, the model did not predict spontaneous labor (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.65; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.61–0.70) with high accuracy. The addition of third trimester cervical dilation in the second model did not significantly improve labor prediction (AUC: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.61–0.70; p = 0.76). These results did not differ by timing of cervical examination or parity. Patients admitted in spontaneous labor had lower odds of cesarean delivery (odds ratio [OR]: 0.33; 95% CI: 0.21–0.53) and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission (OR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.15–0.94). Other perinatal outcomes were similar between the groups.

Conclusion Maternal characteristics did not predict spontaneous labor onset at ≥39 weeks' gestation with high accuracy. Patients should be counseled on the challenges of labor prediction regardless of parity and cervical examination, outcomes if spontaneous labor does not occur, and benefits of labor induction.

Key Points
Filamentous Fungi-Derived Orsellinic Acid-Sesquiterpene Meroterpenoids: Fungal Sources, Chemical Structures, Bioactivities, and Biosynthesis
Authors: Gao Hua , Zhou Luning , Zhang Peng , Wang Ying , Qian Xuan , Liu Yujia , Wu Guangwei
Published: May 2023

Fungi-derived polyketide-terpenoid hybrids are important meroterpenoid natural products that possess diverse structure scaffolds with a broad spectrum of bioactivities. Herein, we focus on
an ever-increasing group of meroterpenoids, orsellinic acid-sesquiterpene hybrids comprised of biosynthetic start unit orsellinic acid coupling to a farnesyl group or/and its modified cyclic
products. The review entails the search of China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Web of Science, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and PubMed databases up to June 2022. The key terms
include “orsellinic acid”, “sesquiterpene”, “ascochlorin”, “ascofuranone”, and “Ascochyta viciae”, which are combined with the structures of “ascochlorin” and “ascofuranone” drawn by
the Reaxys and Scifinder databases. In our search, these orsellinic acid-sesquiterpene hybrids are mainly produced by filamentous fungi. Ascochlorin was the first compound reported in 1968
and isolated from filamentous fungus Ascochyta viciae (synonym: Acremonium egyptiacum; Acremonium sclerotigenum); to date, 71 molecules are discovered from various filamentous
fungi inhabiting in a variety of ecological niches. As typical representatives of the hybrid molecules, the biosynthetic pathway of ascofuranone and ascochlorin are discussed. The group of
meroterpenoid hybrids exhibits a broad arrange of bioactivities, as highlighted by targeting hDHODH (human dihydroorotate dehydrogenase) inhibition, antitrypanosomal, and antimicrobial
activities. This review summarizes the findings related to the structures, fungal sources, bioactivities, and their biosynthesis from 1968 to June 2022.
In Vivo and in Silico Assessment of Ameliorative Effects of Xylopia aethiopica on Testosterone Propionate-Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Ibiam Udu A. , Uti Daniel E. , Ejeogo Chris C. , Orji Obasi U. , Aja Patrick M. , Nwamaka Ezeaani N. , Alum Esther U. , Chukwu Chukwuma , Aloke Chinyere , Chinedum Kate E. , Agu Peter , Nwobodo Valentine
Published: May 2023

Xylopia aethiopica (XAE) is a commonly used herbal medicine and contains rich active ingredients for a variety of biological activities. The study aimed to explore the role of XAE in the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). In the study, testosterone propionate-induced BPH in albino rats was established and treated with different concentrations of ethanol extract of XAE leaf. After treatment, the rats were sacrificed, and the body and prostate weights were recorded. The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and acid phosphatase (ACP) levels in the blood samples were also determined. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was conducted to assess the active chemical compounds. Docking analysis was performed to screen chemical compounds by evaluating their binding affinity with two pro-BPH protein targets (cellular prostatic ACP and PSA). Our data showed the presence of 44 chemical compounds in XAE leaf extract. The body and prostate weights, as well as the levels of PSA and ACP, were significantly increased in BPH induction, and the changing trend was significantly reversed by additional XAE treatment. Interestingly, PSA and ACP levels in XAE-treated groups were reduced to almost the same levels as those in the healthy control. Docking analysis identified four top-posed compounds: β-amyrin, α-amyrin, α-amyrenone, and lupenone with stronger binding energies to prostatic ACP being −9.8, −8.3, −8.4, and −8.6, respectively, compared with the standard drug finasteride (−8.3). Furthermore, the two-dimensional analysis revealed strong interactions through hydrogen bonding, covalent interactions, and several van der Waal forces between the lead compounds and the target proteins. Notably, there was a recurrence interaction between similar residues Asn-1062, Lys-1250, Lys-1059, and Phe-1060 on the protein targets and the lead compounds. The study first revealed the role of XAE in BPH therapy and will help in drug design based on the lead compounds discovered in this work.
Schön Klinik Düsseldorf: Cafeteria raus, Rewe To Go rein
Authors: Kohrs Jens
Published: May 2023

Für die 24-Stunden-Versorgung von Personal und Patienten setzt die Schön Klinik in Düsseldorf auf einen Smart Kiosk des Handelsriesen Rewe. Es wird wohl nicht der einzige Standort bleiben.
Konzernumbau: Philips stellt sich neu auf
Authors: Rößing Sabine
Published: May 2023

Nach einem katastrophalen Jahr 2022 sucht der niederländische Medtech-Konzern nach einem Weg aus der Krise. Der im vergangenen Herbst neu berufene Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Roy Jakobs will das operative Geschäft schnell rentabler machen. Analysten sind jedoch skeptisch, der millionenfache Rückruf defekter Atemgeräte belastet das Unternehmen nach wie vor schwer.
Krankenhausverpflegung: Mehr Individualität und fleischlose Kost
Authors: Lang Michael
Published: May 2023

Die Ergebnisse der sechsten Care-Studie liegen vor. Deren Autor Ekkehart Lehmann erläutert im Gespräch mit kma zukünftige Trends und die aktuelle Situation der Krankenhausverpflegung in Deutschland.
Patiententransport: Optimale Ablaufsteuerung
Authors: Lang Michael
Published: May 2023

Am Universitätsklinikum Freiburg entsteht zurzeit ein elektronisches Benachrichtigungssystem, das Patientinnen und Patienten frühzeitig über einen bevorstehenden Patiententransport informiert. So trägt es dazu bei, vermeidbare Wartezeiten zu reduzieren.
Gebäudesanierung: Umbau und moderne Technik zahlen sich aus
Authors: Reisinger Kathrin
Published: May 2023

Für mehr Energieeffizienz und Klimaschutz müssen viele Krankenhäuser jetzt dringend in ihre häufig veraltete Bausubstanz und unzeitgemäße Gebäudetechnik investieren. Eine neue Studie zeigt, dass die meisten Krankenhausgebäude stark sanierungsbedürftig sind. Auch wenn der Umbau und moderne Geräte teuer sind, zahlen sich Investitionen in die Modernisierung langfristig aus.
Is brand activism an emotional affair? The role of moral emotions in consumer responses to brand activism
Authors: Wannow Stefanie , Haupt Martin , Ohlwein Martin
Published: May 2023

As brand activism continues to move up the corporate agenda, a more comprehensive understanding of its effects is needed. This paper contributes to the evolving research by investigating moral emotions (i.e. other-praising and other-condemning emotions) as mediating factors and consumer-brand identification (CBI) as a moderator that shape consumer reactions to brand activism. Three scenario-based experiments on two divisive topics show that activist messages elicit moral emotions that determine how individuals respond to them, depending on whether or not they agree with the brand’s stance. Moreover, this effect of (dis)agreeing with the brand’s stance on brand attitude is moderated by CBI. In case of a strong identification, an activist message does not affect brand attitude as CBI attenuates the activation of moral emotions – both in the positive case of agreement and in the negative case of disagreement. Finally, brand activism may counter the brand’s social goals, as it disproportionally motivates opponents of the brand’s stand to advocate their own contrary views on the contentious issue. In sum, these findings underscore both the emotional nature of consumer reactions to brand activism and the high level of social responsibility of companies that position themselves as political actors.
How do representatives from sporting organisations understand primary prevention of violence against women?
Authors: Liston Ruth , Hamilton Gemma , McCook Sarah
Published: May 2023

Sports settings have been identified as important locations for the prevention of violence against women, with numerous prevention initiatives currently running in many sports internationally. However, little is known about how those involved in sporting organisations, who are often tasked with delivering such initiatives, conceptualise the prevention of violence against women. This research draws on a survey of people who were invited to participate if they had professional experience in the development or delivery of violence prevention programs in their sporting organisation. We found that a cohort of participants had a limited understanding of primary prevention and how it applies to the prevention of violence against women through sport. Broadly, they were not aware of the difference between primary, secondary and tertiary prevention techniques. These findings suggest that there is a need for better education of those working in sporting organisations about the nature of primary prevention of violence against women as well as deeper consideration of the complex nature of doing violence prevention work through sport.
Ion irradiation-induced nano pore/fiber formation and areal-vacancy distribution in semiconductor materials
Authors: Oishi Naoto , Ueda Takahiro , Nitta Noriko
Published: May 2023

In this study, the formation of nano-porous/fibrous structures was investigated by spot-ion irradiation on Ge and GaSb substrates to consider the formation range of nanostructures and point defects. Spot-ion irradiation was performed in a focused ion beam system with a beam diameter of 35.1 nm, which is determined by the system. The fluence and ion beam current ranged within 5 × 1019–1 × 1022 ions/m2 and 500–520 pA, respectively. All the irradiated ions were Ga+ with incident energy adjusted at 30 keV, and the angle of incidence to the surface normal was 0°. The interval of the irradiated spot ranged from 100 to 1000 nm. For line-patterned irradiations, these spots overlapped with one another at an overlap ratio of 50%, producing a 35.1 nm × 10 μm irradiated region. Result shows that nanostructured regions followed a spot interval. When an interval was shorter than 200 nm, each nanostructured spot coalesced with neighbors to form large and uniform structures. Furthermore, line-patterned irradiation indicated that the migration distance of vacancy was ∼300 nm at maximum, which is consistent with the coalescence phenomenon.