bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternalism. Care and control in diplomatic engagements with civil society
Authors: Jezierska Katarzyna
Published: March 2024

Relations between diplomats and civil society are central to diplomatic work. However, scholarship on diplomacy has not paid sufficient attention to how diplomats interact with civil society actors abroad. This article theorises and empirically examines diplomatic engagements with civil society organisations (CSOs) in host states. The article introduces a new concept – maternalism – into the analytical toolbox of diplomacy studies. While the Bourdieu-inspired ‘practice turn’ has entailed a recalibration of the study of diplomacy towards the everyday work of diplomats, I claim that we need notions that will help us understand these everyday practices in the context of structural power inequalities. In this endeavour, instead of turning to the established notion of paternalism, I follow feminist thinking regarding motherhood and the ethics of care. Maternalism is proposed as a complementary heuristic to paternalism that is helpful in capturing different modes of engagement between unequal actors in international politics and is not marked by financial dependency or military power. Maternalism and paternalism rely on distinct practices of care and control. To empirically illustrate the utility of the notion of maternalism, I analyse diplomats representing seven liberal states in the illiberal states of Poland and Hungary.
Bioethics: No Method—No Discipline?
Authors: Hofmann Bjørn
Published: March 2024

This article raises the question of whether bioethics qualifies as a discipline. According to a standard definition of discipline as “a field of study following specific and well-established methodological rules” bioethics is not a specific discipline as there are no explicit “well-established methodological rules.” The article investigates whether the methodological rules can be implicit, and whether bioethics can follow specific methodological rules within subdisciplines or for specific tasks. As this does not appear to be the case, the article examines whether bioethics’ adherence to specific quality criteria (instead of methodological rules) or pursuing of a common goal can make it qualify as a discipline. Unfortunately, the result is negative. Then, the article scrutinizes whether referring to bioethics institutions and professional qualifications can ascertain bioethics as a discipline. However, this makes the definition of bioethics circular. The article ends by admitting that bioethics can qualify as a discipline according to broader definitions of discipline, for example, as an “area of knowledge, research and education.” However, this would reduce bioethics’ potential for demarcation and identity-building. Thus, to consolidate the discipline of bioethics and increase its impact, we should explicate and elaborate on its methodology.
Übereinstimmungen zwischen Selbst- und Elternbeurteilungen von Ängsten im Grundschulalter in Abhängigkeit vom Geschlecht
Authors: Budnik Laura , Mackowiak Katja , Lengning Anke
Published: March 2024

Zusammenfassung: Theoretischer Hintergrund: Angststörungen gehören zu den häufigsten psychischen Störungen im Kindesalter. Geringe Übereinstimmungen zwischen Selbst- und Elternbeurteilungen, geschlechterspezifische Unterschiede sowie der fehlende Einbezug kindlicher Bewältigungsfähigkeiten erschweren die Identifikation und Beurteilung von Ängsten. Fragestellung: Die vorliegende Studie überprüft, welche Übereinstimmungen sich zwischen der Fremdeinschätzung der Eltern und der Selbsteinschätzung der Kinder in Abhängigkeit vom Geschlecht zeigen und welche Rolle dabei die Bewältigungsfähigkeiten der Kinder spielen könnten. Methode: Es wurden 207 Grundschulkinder mit dem BAV 3 – 11 ( Mackowiak & Lenging, 2010 ) interviewt. Zusätzlich wurde die Einschätzung der Bezugspersonen mithilfe des DISYPS-III ( Döpfner & Görtz-Dorten, 2017 ) erfasst. Ergebnisse: Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass Selbst- und Fremdurteile korrelieren, aber eher in geringer Höhe. Statistisch signifikante Zusammenhänge konnten nur bei den Mädchen gefunden werden. Zusammenhänge zwischen dem selbst eingeschätzten Angsterleben und den genannten Bewältigungsstrategien zeigen sich nur bei Mädchen in konsistenter Weise, nicht aber bei Jungen. Diskussion: Geschlechtsrollenspezifische Gründe für diese differenziellen Ergebnisse sowie die Rolle der Bewältigung im Kontext von Angst werden diskutiert. Die Ergebnisse verdeutlichen die Relevanz der kindlichen Perspektive bei der frühzeitigen Erfassung von Ängsten.
Modeling Ocean Circulation and Ice Shelf Melt in the Bellingshausen Sea
Authors: Hyogo Shuntaro , Nakayama Yoshihiro , Mensah Vigan
Published: March 2024

The ice shelves in the Bellingshausen Sea are melting and thinning rapidly due to modified Circumpolar Deep Water (mCDW) intrusions carrying heat toward ice‐shelf cavities. Observations are, however, sparse in time and space, and extensive model‐data comparisons have never been possible. Here, using a circulation model of the region and ship‐based observations, we show that the simulated water mass distributions in several troughs traversing mCDW inflows are in good agreement with observations, implying that our model has the skills to simulate hydrographic structures as well as on‐shelf ocean circulations. It takes 7.9 and 11.7 months for mCDW to travel to the George VI Ice Shelf cavities through the Belgica and Marguerite troughs, respectively. Ice‐shelf melting is mainly caused by mCDW intrusions along the Belgica and Marguerite troughs, with the heat transport through the former being ∼2.8 times larger than that through the latter. The mCDW intrusions toward the George VI Ice Shelf show little seasonal variability, while those toward the Venable Ice Shelf show seasonal variability, with higher velocities in summer likely caused by coastal trapped waves. We also conduct particle experiments tracking glacial meltwater. After 2 years of model integration, ∼33% of the released particles are located in the Amundsen Sea, supporting a linkage between Bellingshausen Sea ice‐shelf meltwater and Amundsen Sea upper ocean hydrography.
An underwater vest containing an antioxidant MXene hydrogel for sensitive recognition of fish locomotion
Authors: Yang Chengxiu , Hu Jiafei , Liu Lihui , Wu Shaowei , Pan Mengchun , Liu Yan , Wang Haomiao , Li Peisen , Zhang Qi , Qiu Weicheng , Luo Huihui
Published: March 2024

The perception of fish locomotion is important for understanding their adaptive behaviors and ethological characteristics. However, the main strategy used for extracting fish attitudes involves the use of a vision-based monitoring system, which is limited in its range of observation and cannot perform tracking for long times. Here, we report the use of a wearable tagging electronic device, referred to as an underwater vest, to capture the surrounding flow field disturbances triggered by swimming or momentary postural changes. All of these goals were achieved by integrating a pair of pseudocapacitive pressure-sensing units and a flexible circuit board. Notably, additional conditions, such as variable hydraulic pressures and minimal changes in fish posture, require high stability and sensitivity of the sensing units. Thus, hybrid hydrogel electrodes were developed through cross-linking MXene with holey-reduced graphene oxide nanosheets and further modification with 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium dicyanamide ionic liquids, which increased the interfacial capacitance and long-term interfacial activity of the MXene. Consequently, the sensing unit exhibited ultrahigh sensitivity (Smax~136,207 kPa−1) in an aquatic environment for 60 days and superior high-pressure resolution (10 Pa) within a wide working range of 1 MPa. Ultimately, an underwater vest integrated with such sensing units clearly distinguished and recorded fish locomotion. We believe that the designed device may open avenues in flow field monitoring and ocean current detection and provide new insights into the development of sensitive underwater tagging.
Colorectal cancer cells secreting DKK4 transform fibroblasts to promote tumour metastasis
Authors: Li Xue , Chen Yulin , Lu Ran , Hu Min , Gu Lei , Huang Qiaorong , Meng Wentong , Zhu Hongyan , Fan Chuanwen , Zhou Zongguang , Mo Xianming
Published: March 2024

Wnt/β-catenin signalling is aberrantly activated in most colorectal cancer (CRC) and is one key driver involved in the initiation and progression of CRC. However, mutations of APC gene in CRC patients retain certain activity of APC protein with decreased β-catenin signalling and DKK4 expression significantly upregulates and represses Wnt/β-catenin signalling in human CRC tissues, suggesting that a precisely modulated activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is essential for CRC formation and progression. The underlying reasons why a specifically reduced degree, not a fully activating degree, of β-catenin signalling in CRC are unclear. Here, we showed that a soluble extracellular inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin signalling, DKK4, is an independent factor for poor outcomes in CRC patients. DKK4 secreted from CRC cells inactivates β-catenin in fibroblasts to induce the formation of stress fibre-containing fibroblasts and myofibroblasts in culture conditions and in mouse CRC xenograft tissues, resulting in restricted expansion in tumour masses at primary sites and enhanced CRC metastasis in mouse models. Reduced β-catenin activity by a chemical inhibitor MSAB promoted the CRC metastasis. Our findings demonstrate why reduced β-catenin activity is needed for CRC progression and provide a mechanism by which interactions between CRC cells and stromal cells affect disease promotion.
Perinatal compromise affects development, form, and function of the hippocampus part one; clinical studies
Authors: White Tegan A. , Miller Suzanne L. , Sutherland Amy E. , Allison Beth J. , Camm Emily J.
Published: March 2024

The hippocampus is a neuron-rich specialised brain structure that plays a central role in the regulation of emotions, learning and memory, cognition, spatial navigation, and motivational processes. In human fetal development, hippocampal neurogenesis is principally complete by mid-gestation, with subsequent maturation comprising dendritogenesis and synaptogenesis in the third trimester of pregnancy and infancy. Dendritogenesis and synaptogenesis underpin connectivity. Hippocampal development is exquisitely sensitive to perturbations during pregnancy and at birth. Clinical investigations demonstrate that preterm birth, fetal growth restriction (FGR), and acute hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) are common perinatal complications that alter hippocampal development. In turn, deficits in hippocampal development and structure mediate a range of neurodevelopmental disorders, including cognitive and learning problems, autism, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In this review, we summarise the developmental profile of the hippocampus during fetal and neonatal life and examine the hippocampal deficits observed following common human pregnancy complications.

Impact

The review provides a comprehensive summary of the developmental profile of the hippocampus in normal fetal and neonatal life.

We address a significant knowledge gap in paediatric research by providing a comprehensive summary of the relationship between pregnancy complications and subsequent hippocampal damage, shedding new light on this critical aspect of early neurodevelopment.
Lactobacillus casei Shirota probiotic drinks reduce antibiotic associated diarrhoea in patients with spinal cord injuries who regularly consume proton pump inhibitors: a subgroup analysis of the ECLISP multicentre RCT
Authors: Wong Samford , Hirani Shashivadan P. , Forbes Alastair , Kumar Naveen , Hariharan Ramaswamy , O’Driscoll Jean , Sekhar Ravi , Jamous Ali
Published: March 2024

Study design

This was a sub-group analysis of a multicentre, randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial (ECLISP trial)

Objectives

To assess the efficacy of a probiotic containing at least 6.5 × 109 live Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) in preventing antibiotic associated diarrhoea (AAD) in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) who consumed proton pump inhibitor (PPI) regularly. LcS or placebo was given once daily for the duration of an antibiotic course and continued for 7 days thereafter. The trial was registered with ISRCTN:13119162.

Setting

Three SCI centres (National Spinal Injuries Centre, Midland Centre for Spinal Injuries and Princess Royal Spinal Cord Injuries Centre) in the United Kingdom

Methods

Between November 2014, and November 2019, 95 eligible consenting SCI patients (median age: 57; IQ range: 43-69) were randomly allocated to receive LcS (n = 50) or placebo (n = 45). The primary outcome is the occurrence of AAD up to 30 days after finishing LcS/placebo.

Results

The LcS group had a significantly lower incidence of AAD at 30 days after finishing the antibiotic course (28.0 v 53.3%, RR: 95% CI: 0.53, 0.31–0.89; z = 2.5, p = 0.01). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified that LcS can reduce the risk of AAD at 30 days (OR: 0.36, 95% CI 0.13, 0.99, p < 0.05). No intervention-related adverse events were reported during the study.

Conclusions

LcS has the potential to prevent AAD in what could be considered a defined vulnerable group of SCI patients on regular PPI. A confirmatory, randomised, placebo-controlled study is needed to confirm this apparent therapeutic success to translate it into appropriate clinical outcomes.

Sponsorship

Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd.
Is painful temporomandibular disorder a real headache for many patients?
Authors: Yakkaphan Pankaew , Elias Leigh-Ann , Ravindranath Priya Thimma , Renton Tara
Published: March 2024

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and primary headaches are common pain conditions and often co-exist. TMD classification includes the term ‘headache secondary to TMD' but this term does not acknowledge the likelihood that primary headache pathophysiology underpins headache causing painful TMD signs and symptoms in many patients. The two disorders have a complex link and we do not fully understand their interrelationship. However, growing evidence shows a significant association between the two disorders. This article reviews the possible connection between temporomandibular disorders and primary headaches, specifically migraine, both anatomically and pathogenetically.
Combination of EZH2 and ATM inhibition in BAP1-deficient mesothelioma
Authors: Landman Nick , Hulsman Danielle , Badhai Jitendra , Kopparam Jawahar , Puppe Julian , Pandey Gaurav Kumar , van Lohuizen Maarten
Published: March 2024

Background

More than half of mesothelioma tumours show alterations in the tumour suppressor gene BAP1. BAP1-deficient mesothelioma is shown to be sensitive to EZH2 inhibition in preclinical settings but only showed modest efficacy in clinical trial. Adding a second inhibitor could potentially elevate EZH2i treatment efficacy while preventing acquired resistance at the same time.

Methods

A focused drug synergy screen consisting of 20 drugs was performed by combining EZH2 inhibition with a panel of anti-cancer compounds in mesothelioma cell lines. The compounds used are under preclinical investigation or already used in the clinic. The synergistic potential of the combinations was assessed by using the Bliss model. To validate our findings, in vivo xenograft experiments were performed.

Results

Combining EZH2i with ATMi was found to have synergistic potential against BAP1-deficient mesothelioma in our drug screen, which was validated in clonogenicity assays. Tumour growth inhibition potential was significantly increased in BAP1-deficient xenografts. In addition, we observe lower ATM levels upon depletion of BAP1 and hypothesise that this might be mediated by E2F1.

Conclusions

We demonstrated the efficacy of the combination of ATM and EZH2 inhibition against BAP1-deficient mesothelioma in preclinical models, indicating the potential of this combination as a novel treatment modality using BAP1 as a biomarker.
Diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in acute retinal necrosis; an update
Authors: Kalogeropoulos Dimitrios , Afshar Farid , Kalogeropoulos Chris , Vartholomatos Georgios , Lotery Andrew John
Published: March 2024

Acute retinal necrosis (ARN) is a rare but severe ophthalmic pathology defined by panuveitis, retinal necrosis, and high rates of retinal detachment. ARN may lead to poor visual outcomes even if promptly diagnosed and treated. ARN may present with a wide spectrum of clinical findings compatible with panuveitis including anterior uveitis, scleritis, vitritis, necrotizing retinitis, occlusive vasculitis, and optic disc edema. The American Uveitis Society introduced clinical criteria in 1994 for the diagnosis of ARN, while more recent criteria have been proposed by the Standardization of Uveitis Nomenclature (SUN) Working Group and the Japanese ARN Study Group. Multimodal imaging is a valuable tool in evaluating patients with ARN, particularly in unusual cases, while utilizing retinal imaging and applying AI algorithms in these areas of clinical research could be highly beneficial. Over the last few years, significant progress has been made in achieving timely diagnosis and treatment. The precise identification of the viral cause in suspected ARN cases has been greatly enhanced by the advancements in PCR techniques and flow cytometry used for intraocular fluids. systemic (intravenous or oral) antivirals with adjunctive intravitreal antiviral therapy are recommended as first-line therapy to reduce disease severity, the risk of vision loss, and retinal detachment incidence. Although aciclovir was the first existing antiviral agent, at present many clinicians prefer high-dose valaciclovir orally or intravenous aciclovir combined with intravitreal foscarnet. Despite significant progress in diagnosing and treating ARN, further research is needed to improve visual outcomes in this challenging clinical condition.
A novel NFKB1 variant in a Japanese pedigree with common variable immunodeficiency
Authors: Nakatani Naoko , Tamura Akihiro , Hanafusa Hiroaki , Nino Nanako , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Awano Hiroyuki , Tanaka Yasuhiro , Morisada Naoya , Uemura Suguru , Saito Atsuro , Hasegawa Daiichiro , Nozu Kandai , Kosaka Yoshiyuki
Published: March 2024

Recently, heterozygous loss-of-function NFKB1 variants were identified as the primary cause of common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) in the European population. However, pathogenic NFKB1 variants have never been reported in the Japanese population. We present a 29-year-old Japanese woman with CVID. A novel variant, c.136 C > T, p.(Gln46*), was identified in NFKB1. Her mother and daughter carried the same variant, demonstrating the first Japanese pedigree with an NFKB1 pathogenic variant.
SNX8 enables lysosome reformation and reverses lysosomal storage disorder
Authors: Li Xinran , Xiang Cong , Zhu Shilei , Guo Jiansheng , Liu Chang , Wang Ailian , Cao Jin , Lu Yan , Neculai Dante , Xu Pinglong , Feng Xin-Hua
Published: March 2024

Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSDs), which share common phenotypes, including enlarged lysosomes and defective lysosomal storage, are caused by mutations in lysosome-related genes. Although gene therapies and enzyme replacement therapies have been explored, there are currently no effective routine therapies against LSDs. During lysosome reformation, which occurs when the functional lysosome pool is reduced, lysosomal lipids and proteins are recycled to restore lysosome functions. Here we report that the sorting nexin protein SNX8 promotes lysosome tubulation, a process that is required for lysosome reformation, and that loss of SNX8 leads to phenotypes characteristic of LSDs in human cells. SNX8 overexpression rescued features of LSDs in cells, and AAV-based delivery of SNX8 to the brain rescued LSD phenotypes in mice. Importantly, by screening a natural compound library, we identified three small molecules that enhanced SNX8–lysosome binding and reversed LSD phenotypes in human cells and in mice. Altogether, our results provide a potential solution for the treatment of LSDs.
Cancer cell genetics shaping of the tumor microenvironment reveals myeloid cell-centric exploitable vulnerabilities in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ramirez Christel F. A. , Taranto Daniel , Ando-Kuri Masami , de Groot Marnix H. P. , Tsouri Efi , Huang Zhijie , de Groot Daniel , Kluin Roelof J. C. , Kloosterman Daan J. , Verheij Joanne , Xu Jing , Vegna Serena , Akkari Leila
Published: March 2024

Myeloid cells are abundant and plastic immune cell subsets in the liver, to which pro-tumorigenic, inflammatory and immunosuppressive roles have been assigned in the course of tumorigenesis. Yet several aspects underlying their dynamic alterations in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression remain elusive, including the impact of distinct genetic mutations in shaping a cancer-permissive tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, in newly generated, clinically-relevant somatic female HCC mouse models, we identify cancer genetics’ specific and stage-dependent alterations of the liver TME associated with distinct histopathological and malignant HCC features. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-activated,NrasG12D-driven tumors exhibit a mixed phenotype of prominent inflammation and immunosuppression in a T cell-excluded TME. Mechanistically, we report aNrasG12Dcancer cell-driven, MEK-ERK1/2-SP1-dependent GM-CSF secretion enabling the accumulation of immunosuppressive and proinflammatory monocyte-derived Ly6Clowcells. GM-CSF blockade curbs the accumulation of these cells, reduces inflammation, induces cancer cell death and prolongs animal survival. Furthermore, GM-CSF neutralization synergizes with a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor to restrain HCC outgrowth. These findings underscore the profound alterations of the myeloid TME consequential to MAPK pathway activation intensity and the potential of GM-CSF inhibition as a myeloid-centric therapy tailored to subsets of HCC patients.
Structural basis for peroxidase encapsulation inside the encapsulin from the Gram-negative pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Jones Jesse A. , Andreas Michael P. , Giessen Tobias W.
Published: March 2024

Encapsulins are self-assembling protein nanocompartments capable of selectively encapsulating dedicated cargo proteins, including enzymes involved in iron storage, sulfur metabolism, and stress resistance. They represent a unique compartmentalization strategy used by many pathogens to facilitate specialized metabolic capabilities. Encapsulation is mediated by specific cargo protein motifs known as targeting peptides (TPs), though the structural basis for encapsulation of the largest encapsulin cargo class, dye-decolorizing peroxidases (DyPs), is currently unknown. Here, we characterize a DyP-containing encapsulin from the enterobacterial pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae. By combining cryo-electron microscopy with TP and TP-binding site mutagenesis, we elucidate the molecular basis for cargo encapsulation. TP binding is mediated by cooperative hydrophobic and ionic interactions as well as shape complementarity. Our results expand the molecular understanding of enzyme encapsulation inside protein nanocompartments and lay the foundation for rationally modulating encapsulin cargo loading for biomedical and biotechnological applications.
Mutations in the efflux pump regulator MexZ shift tissue colonization by Pseudomonas aeruginosa to a state of antibiotic tolerance
Authors: Laborda Pablo , Lolle Signe , Hernando-Amado Sara , Alcalde-Rico Manuel , Aanæs Kasper , Martínez José Luis , Molin Søren , Johansen Helle Krogh
Published: March 2024

Mutations in mexZ, encoding a negative regulator of the expression of the mexXY efflux pump genes, are frequently acquired by Pseudomonas aeruginosa at early stages of lung infection. Although traditionally related to resistance to the first-line drug tobramycin, mexZ mutations are associated with low-level aminoglycoside resistance when determined in the laboratory, suggesting that their selection during infection may not be necessarily, or only, related to tobramycin therapy. Here, we show that mexZ-mutated bacteria tend to accumulate inside the epithelial barrier of a human airway infection model, thus colonising the epithelium while being protected against diverse antibiotics. This phenotype is mediated by overexpression of lecA, a quorum sensing-controlled gene, encoding a lectin involved in P. aeruginosa tissue invasiveness. We find that lecA overexpression is caused by a disrupted equilibrium between the overproduced MexXY and another efflux pump, MexAB, which extrudes quorum sensing signals. Our results indicate that mexZ mutations affect the expression of quorum sensing-regulated pathways, thus promoting tissue invasiveness and protecting bacteria from the action of antibiotics within patients, something unnoticeable using standard laboratory tests.
An ARF gene mutation creates flint kernel architecture in dent maize
Authors: Wang Haihai , Huang Yongcai , Li Yujie , Cui Yahui , Xiang Xiaoli , Zhu Yidong , Wang Qiong , Wang Xiaoqing , Ma Guangjin , Xiao Qiao , Huang Xing , Gao Xiaoyan , Wang Jiechen , Lu Xiaoduo , Larkins Brian A. , Wang Wenqin , Wu Yongrui
Published: March 2024

Dent and flint kernel architectures are important characteristics that affect the physical properties of maize kernels and their grain end uses. The genes controlling these traits are unknown, so it is difficult to combine the advantageous kernel traits of both. We found mutation of ARFTF17 in a dent genetic background reduces IAA content in the seed pericarp, creating a flint-like kernel phenotype. ARFTF17 is highly expressed in the pericarp and encodes a protein that interacts with and inhibits MYB40, a transcription factor with the dual functions of repressing PIN1 expression and transactivating genes for flavonoid biosynthesis. Enhanced flavonoid biosynthesis could reduce the metabolic flux responsible for auxin biosynthesis. The decreased IAA content of the dent pericarp appears to reduce cell division and expansion, creating a shorter, denser kernel. Introgression of the ARFTF17 mutation into dent inbreds and hybrids improved their kernel texture, integrity, and desiccation, without affecting yield.
Strain regulates the photovoltaic performance of thick-film perovskites
Authors: Shi Pengju , Xu Jiazhe , Yavuz Ilhan , Huang Tianyi , Tan Shaun , Zhao Ke , Zhang Xu , Tian Yuan , Wang Sisi , Fan Wei , Li Yahui , Jin Donger , Yu Xuemeng , Wang Chenyue , Gao Xingyu , Chen Zhong , Shi Enzheng , Chen Xihan , Yang Deren , Xue Jingjing , Yang Yang , Wang Rui
Published: March 2024

Perovskite photovoltaics, typically based on a solution-processed perovskite layer with a film thickness of a few hundred nanometres, have emerged as a leading thin-film photovoltaic technology. Nevertheless, many critical issues pose challenges to its commercialization progress, including industrial compatibility, stability, scalability and reliability. A thicker perovskite film on a scale of micrometres could mitigate these issues. However, the efficiencies of thick-film perovskite cells lag behind those with nanometre film thickness. With the mechanism remaining elusive, the community has long been under the impression that the limiting factor lies in the short carrier lifetime as a result of defects. Here, by constructing a perovskite system with extraordinarily long carrier lifetime, we rule out the restrictions of carrier lifetime on the device performance. Through this, we unveil the critical role of the ignored lattice strain in thick films. Our results provide insights into the factors limiting the performance of thick-film perovskite devices.
Importance of modifiable non-radiographic functional parameters for adult spinal deformity
Authors: Mizutani Kozaburo , Kobayashi Tetsuya , Senoo Issei , Shimizu Mutsuya , Okayasu Hiroki
Published: March 2024

We clarified non-radiographic physical parameters associated with the severity of adult spinal deformity (ASD) using community-dwelling adult volunteers. They were subjected to upright entire spine radiographs for standard radiographic parameters and the number of sagittal modifiers of SRS-Schwab ASD classification (Schwab-SM). Clinical evaluations included isometric muscle strength of trunk extensor (TEX), trunk flexor (TFL), quadriceps femoris (QF), gluteus maximus, and iliopsoas; range of motion (ROM) of hip, knee, ankle, and active back extension (BET); SF36 physical component score (PCS), VAS for back and knee pain, and the degree of ambulatory kyphosis (dTIA). Each muscle strength was calibrated by body weight (BW) and expressed as BW ratio. According to our previous study, dTIA ≥ 7.6° was defined as pathological and dTIA ≤ 3.5° as normal. A final total of 409 female volunteers were included, and their demographics were; age 67.0 ± 5.5 years, Schwab-SM 2.1 ± 1.8, TEX 0.90 ± 0.33BW, TFL 0.48 ± 0.15BW, QF 0.45 ± 0.19BW, PCS 33.5 ± 6.5. Subjects were classified as clinical ASD group (cASD, n = 10) with PCS ≤ 27(mean-1SD) and pathological dTIA, robust group (n = 19) with PCS ≥ 40 (mean + 1SD) and normal dTIA, and the rest (non-cASD, n = 338). Statistical analyses showed significant differences in TEX, TFL, QF, knee extension (KEX), and BET between robust and cASD, and the mean values of robust group (TEX ≥ 1.1BW, TFL ≥ 0.5BW, QF ≥ 0.5BW, KEX ≥ 0° and BET ≥ 14 cm) were used as ‘ASD-MJ’ index. Subjects with fully achieving ASD-MJ goals showed significantly better radiographic and clinical outcomes than those with unmet goals. In conclusion, upon prescribing conservative or physical therapies for ASD patients, modifiable clinical goals should be clarified, and ASD-MJ could be a benchmark.
Elevated postoperative carcinoembryonic antigen guides adjuvant chemotherapy for stage II colon cancer: a multicentre cohort retrospective study
Authors: Pu Hongjiang , Yang Wei , Liu Mengmei , Pang Xiaolin , Chen Yaxue , Xiong Qiuxia
Published: March 2024

Most clinical doctors rely on high-risk factors recommended by guidelines to decide whether to undergo adjuvant chemotherapy for stage II colon cancer. However, these high-risk factors do not include postoperative carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). This study aims to explore the elevation of postoperative CEA as a risk factor, in addition to other high-risk factors, to guide adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with stage II colon cancer. A retrospective analysis was conducted on stage II colon cancer patients who underwent curative surgery at Yunnan Cancer Hospital and The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University from April 2008 to January 2019. Patients were classified into three groups based on high-risk factors recommended by guidelines and postoperative CEA levels: low-risk with normal postoperative CEA, low-risk with elevated postoperative CEA and high-risk. COX regression analysis was used to identify independent prognostic factors affecting patients’ recurrence free survival (RFS). The Kaplan–Meier method was used to create the patients’ RFS curve. The restricted cubic spline (RCS) curve was used to assess the correlation between postoperative CEA and RFS on a continuous scale. Among 761 patients, there were 444 males (62.01%), with a median [IQR] age of 58.0 (18.0–88.0) years. A group of 425 high-risk patients had a 3-year RFS of 82.2% (95% CI 78.5–86.1%), while a group of 291 low-risk patients had a 3-year RFS of 89.7% (95% CI 86.1–93.5%). There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups (HR 1.83; 95% CI 1.22–2.74; P = 0.0067). Among them, the 3-year RFS of 261 low-risk patients with normal postoperative CEA was 93.6% (95% CI 90.5–96.8%), while the 3-year RFS of 30 low-risk patients with elevated postoperative CEA was 57.3% (95% CI 41.8–71.4%). There was a significant difference compared to the 3-year RFS of 425 high-risk patients (overall log-rank P < 0.0001). The multivariate analysis adjusted by the COX proportional hazards model showed that low-risk patients with elevated postoperative CEA patients (HR 14.95, 95% CI 4.51–49.63, P < 0.0001) was independently associated with a 3-year RFS. The restricted cubic spline model showed that in stage II colon cancer patients with tumor diameter > 1.955 ng/mL, the risk of postoperative recurrence increased with increasing postoperative CEA levels. Patients with elevated postoperative CEA levels have a significantly increased risk of recurrence. They should be included as high-risk factors to guide adjuvant chemotherapy for stage II colon cancer.
Screening and verification of hub genes in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by integrated analysis
Authors: Wu Hongqiang , Zhu Peiyao , Shu Peng , Zhang Shuguang
Published: March 2024

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors. However, the mechanisms underlying ESCC tumorigenesis have not been fully elucidated. Thus, we aimed to determine the key genes involved in ESCC tumorigenesis. The following bioinformatics analyses were performed: identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs); gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis; integrated analysis of the protein–protein interaction network and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis database for validation of hub genes. Finally, western blotting and qPCR were used to explore the expression of cell division cycle 6 (CDC6) in ESCC cell lines. Immunohistochemistry analysis of ESCC samples from patients and matched clinical characteristics was used to determine the effects of CDC6. A total of 494 DEGs were identified, and functional enrichment was mainly focused on cell cycle and DNA replication. Biological pathway analysis of the hub genes was closely related to the cell cycle. We found that CDC6 was upregulated in ESCC cell lines and patient tissues and was related to the clinicopathological characteristics of ESCC. In conclusion, this study identified hub genes and crucial biological pathways related to ESCC tumorigenesis and integrated analyses indicated that CDC6 may be a novel diagnostic and therapeutic target for ESCC.
Development and validation of the information-motivation-behavioural skills model-based human immunodeficiency virus education kit for adolescents in Malaysia
Authors: Wan Mohamad Darani Wan Nur Syamimi , Mat Ruzlin Aimi Nadira , Azhar Zahir Izuan , Chen Xin Wee
Published: March 2024

The growing Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) incidences and insufficient HIV knowledge among Malaysian late adolescents necessitate immediate attention to HIV prevention via education. This study aims to develop and validate an Information-Motivation-Behavioural skills (IMB) model-based education kit for adolescents, PREM-Kit, to educate on HIV prevention among Malaysian late adolescents. Utilizing the Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation model, we conducted the study in three phases: needs assessment, development of PREM-Kit, and validation of PREM-Kit by applying the IMB model to map the PREM-Kit’s contents. PREM-Kit, developed in Malay language, consisted of an infographic flip chart and videos. Five multi-disciplinary experts validated the PREM-Kit using the content validity index (CVI), and 13 end-users validated the PREM-Kit using the Malay version of the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Printable and Audiovisual Materials. The infographic flip chart comprised three modules covering 15 topics, and an animated video accompanied each module. PREM-Kit achieved CVI scores of 1.0 and median scores of over 80% for understandability and actionability. Overall, the newly developed IMB model-based HIV education kit has good content validity, is simple to comprehend and apply, and is ready for testing its effectiveness in improving adolescents’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices for HIV prevention.
Real-time polarization compensation method in quantum communication based on channel Muller parameters detection
Authors: Tan Yongjian , Wang Jianyu , Wu Jincai , He Zhiping
Published: March 2024

Polarization drift in fiber and free-space optical links is a major factor in the dynamic increase of bit error rate in polarization-coded quantum key distribution (QKD) systems. A dynamic polarization compensation method applicable to both links is a challenge. Here we propose a universally applicable real-time polarization compensation method, that the Muller parameters of the optical links are first detected using a polarization detector, and then the optimal parameters of the controller are obtained by gradient descent algorithm. Simulation results indicate advantages over current methods, with fewer waveplates, faster speed, and wider applicability for various optical links. In equivalent experiments of both satellite and fiber optical links, the average polarization extinction ratio of 27.9 dB and 32.2 dB are respectively achieved. The successful implementation of our method will contribute to the real-time polarization design of fiber and free-space QKD systems, while also contributing to the design of laser-based polarization systems.
Association of Cantonese dietary patterns with mortality risk in older Chinese: a 16-year follow-up of a Guangzhou Biobank cohort study
Authors: Sun Ce , Zhang Wei Sen , Jiang Chao Qiang , Jin Ya Li , Au Yeung Shiu Lun , Woo Jean , Cheng Kar Keung , Lam Tai Hing , Xu Lin
Published: March 2024

Evidence about the associations between Cantonese dietary patterns and mortality is scarce.
Designing and prototyping a novel biosensor based on a volumetric bar-chart chip for urea detection
Authors: Samadi Khezri Mahdi , Housaindokht Mohammad Reza , Firouzi Mojtaba
Published: March 2024

A volumetric bar-chart chip (V-chip) is a microfluidic device based on distance-based quantitative measurement that visualizes analyte concentration without the need for apparatus or data processing.
Activation of sodium percarbonate by cysteine complexation of Fe(ii) for the degradation of acetaminophen in water
Authors: Lin Yingzi , Sun Ningning , Zhang Qingyu , Chen Lei , Sun Shengbo , Yang Hong , Chen Jing , Weng Qixuan , Xue Shuang
Published: March 2024

To overcome the limitations of the Fe(ii)-activated percarbonate process for ACT removal, this study introduced cysteine as a complexing agent into the Fe(ii)/SPC system and enhanced the degradation efficiency of ACT.
Anti-aggregation colorimetric sensing of cysteine using silver nanoparticles in the presence of Pb2+
Authors: Mao Lihui , Zhang Yi , Zhang Huan , Liu Huili , Gao Yong-ping
Published: March 2024

In this study, an unmodified AgNPs was synthesized to prepare AgNPs-Pb2+ as a probe for colorimetric sensing of cysteine. We developed a AgNPs colorimetric method for the determination of cysteine in urine, utilizing the anti-aggregation principle.
Correction: A Y1 receptor ligand synergized with a P-glycoprotein inhibitor improves the therapeutic efficacy of multidrug resistant breast cancer
Authors: Wang Yinjie , Jiang Zhenqi , Yuan Bo , Tian Yuchen , Xiang Lingchao , Li Yanying , Yang Yong , Li Juan , Wu Aiguo
Published: March 2024

Correction for ‘A Y1 receptor ligand synergized with a P-glycoprotein inhibitor improves the therapeutic efficacy of multidrug resistant breast cancer’ by Yinjie Wang et al., Biomater. Sci., 2019, 7, 4748–4757, https://doi.org/10.1039/C9BM00337A.
A temperature-adjustable in situ infrared diffuse reflectance spectroscopy system for catalysts
Authors: Huang Weifeng , Chen Tao , Luo Jun , Su Geer , Wei Hang
Published: March 2024

An in situ infrared diffuse reflection rapid detection system with a temperature regulation function is adept at simulating the catalytic reaction.
3D printing of reactive macroporous polymers via thiol–ene chemistry and polymerization-induced phase separation
Authors: Mandsberg Nikolaj K. , Aslan Fatma , Dong Zheqin , Levkin Pavel A.
Published: March 2024

Using thiol–ene chemistry, polymerization-induced phase separation, and DLP 3D printing, we present a method for manufacturing reactive macroporous 3D structures.
Electrochemical oxidative C–C bond cleavage of methylenecyclopropanes with alcohols
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Dutt Shiv , Banerjee Prabal
Published: March 2024

Herein, an electrochemical approach toward the ring opening functionalization of methylenecyclopropanes (MCPs) via C–C bond cleavage in the presence of alcohols is reported.
Orthogonal stimulation of structural transformations in photo-responsive MOF films through linker functionalization
Authors: Klokic Sumea , Marmiroli Benedetta , Naumenko Denys , Birarda Giovanni , Dal Zilio Simone , Velásquez-Hernández Miriam de J. , Falcaro Paolo , Vaccari Lisa , Amenitsch Heinz
Published: March 2024

Controlling the magnitude of structural dynamics in flexible MOF films by an applied stimulus is largely desired for specific applications such as energy storage.
Spin thermoelectric properties induced by hydrogen impurities in zigzag graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Esteki Somaye , Farghadan Rouhollah
Published: March 2024

Application of a thermal gradient induces a thermal spin current and spin Seebeck coefficient in hydrogenated zigzag graphene nanoribbons.
Photodissociation of deuterated pyrrole–ammonia clusters: H-atom transfer or electron coupled proton transfer?
Authors: Fuchs Stefan , Dick Bernhard
Published: March 2024

What is the mechanism of photodissociation of the PyH–NH3 complex into the radicals Py and NH4 – impulsive hydrogen transfer, electron coupled proton transfer, or fragmentation after thermalization in the excited state? A molecular beam study.
Cu(dppf) complexes can be synthesized from Cu-exchanged solids and enable a quantification of the Cu-accessibility by 31P MAS NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Kaya Elif , Dittmann Daniel , Schmidt Maximilian , Dyballa Michael
Published: March 2024

Herein, we apply three different copper-exchanged materials (Na–[Al]SBA-15, silica, Na–MCM-22) as hosts for a direct synthesis of quantifiable CuI(1,1′-bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene = dppf) complexes in cationic ion exchange position.
Wave mechanics in an ionic liquid mixture
Authors: Groves Timothy S. , Perkin Susan
Published: March 2024

We present measurements and analysis of the interactions between macroscopic bodies across a fluid mixture of two ionic liquids of widely diverging ionic size.
Expression of concern: Acceleration of ammonium phosphate hydrolysis using TiO2 microspheres as a catalyst for hydrogen production
Authors: Zaki Ayman H. , Shalan Ahmed Esmail , El-Shafeay Aya , Gadelhak Yasser M. , Ahmed Enas , Abdel-Salam M. O. , Sobhi M. , El-dek S. I.
Published: March 2024

Expression of concern for ‘Acceleration of ammonium phosphate hydrolysis using TiO2 microspheres as a catalyst for hydrogen production’ by Ayman H. Zaki et al., Nanoscale Adv., 2020, 2, 2080–2086, https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NA00204F.
One-step preparation of NiCo2S4@NiCo-LDH nano-array structures for high-performance supercapacitor electrodes
Authors: Dai Yile , Jiang Yi , Wang Qing , Dai Jianfeng
Published: March 2024

Transition metal sulfides have attracted much attention due to their excellent electrochemical properties.
Carbon dots analysis of charge transfer intrinsic capacity based on the analytic calculation of chemical reactivity descriptors
Authors: Lara-Cerón Jesús A. , Flores-Moreno Roberto , Flores-Ramos José A. , Jayaprakash Gururaj K.
Published: March 2024

Carbon dots analysis of charge transfer intrinsic capacity based on the analytic calculation of chemical reactivity descriptors.
A phosphamide nucleotide analog: a substrate for polymerase synthesis of DNA
Authors: Meng Jiong , Guo Qiaqia , Zhai Xiaona , Yang Song , Wang Shuai , Wang Pengcheng , Ji Debin
Published: March 2024

A phosphamide nucleotide analog (dNTPγNH2) exhibited higher stability than dNTPs and can be recognized by DNA polymerases in PCR.
A pyridine-N-oxide catenane for cation recognition
Authors: Barlow Sean R. , Halcovitch Nathan R. , Evans Nicholas H.
Published: March 2024

A pyridine-N-oxide containing [2]catenane may be reversibly protonated, as well as bind lithium cations more strongly than sodium cations.
The response of diatom community to small hydropower plant and fish farm
Authors: Jakovljević Olga , Krizmanić Jelena , Vasiljević Božica , Popović Slađana
Published: March 2024

Some of the direct and indirect environmental impacts are related to the construction of fish farms (FFs) and small hydropower plants (SHPs) around the world. Diatom communities are one of the best bioindicators of various pressures like eutrophication, chemical and organic pollution. The main objective of this study was to examine the influence of SHP and FF on diatom community and water quality of the Prištavica River in Serbia. A total of 184 epilithic diatom taxa from 55 genera were identified. Sites after the FF and SHP are distinguished by the same dominant species in each season. Compared to the other sites, species diversity in summer was lower at site after SHP. In terms of spatial dynamics, four groups of taxa are distinguished. Some centric taxa were associated with sites downstream the FF and SHP. Altered physical and chemical parameters were documented at sites downstream of constructions. Water quality of the Prištavica River ranged from high to bad depending on diatom index, season, and sampling site. A greater difference in diatom index values was found at sites upstream and downstream of the FF, than at sites upstream and downstream of the SHP.
Odontogenic orbital cellulitis: literature review
Authors: Guichaoua Camille , Genest-Beucher Sébastien , Boisrame Sylvie
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Odontogenic origin is a rare cause (1.3–5%) of cases of orbital cellulitis, but it can lead to very important morbidity such as blindness or thrombosis of the cavernous sinus. It is therefore important to know how to recognize it. Methods: A literature review was performed. The parameters analyzed included age, sex, ethnicity, clinical presentation, imaging to determine orbital involvement, etiology, microbiology, treatment (medical and/or surgical), and final outcome of each case. Chandler's classification was used to classify the different types of cellulitis. Results: Thirty-five cases of odontogenic orbital cellulitis have been described in literature from 1980 to 2022. In 42.9% of cases, the cellulitis corresponded to an intra-orbital abscess (Chandler stage IV). Thrombosis of the cavernous sinus (stage V) was detected in 5.7% of cases. Periorbital edema (100%), ocular or facial pain (82.9%) and limitation of eye movements (82.9%) were the three most common ophthalmological signs. The anamnesis revealed an element pointing to a dental origin in 97.1% of the cases, the two most frequent being a dental avulsion (20%) or an endodontic treatment (14.3%), in days or weeks preceding the onset of symptoms. Imaging was performed on admission in 94.3% of cases. Regarding the most frequently encountered germs, commensal streptococcus of the oral cavity or anaerobic bacteria were found in 25.7% of cases, and coagulase-negative staphylococcus in 22.9% of cases. In 94.3% of cases, broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotic therapy was initiated as soon as the diagnosis was made. The common feature was the use of metronidazole in 51.4% of cases, combined with a third-generation cephalosporin (11.4%) or amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (8.6%). Orbital drainage was necessary in 71.4% of cases to allow resolution of symptoms, associated with drainage of the maxillary sinus in 45.7% of cases. Finally, the treatment allowed a recovery without sequelae in 80% of cases. Discussion: In case of suspected orbital cellulitis, imaging is crucial to confirm the diagnosis, the type of cellulitis and plan the appropriate surgical treatment. The first step of treatment will be the quick start of a broad spectrum intravenous antibiotic therapy, targeting aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. However, it seems imperative to associate a surgical treatment consisting in a first step of an oral drainage and an elimination of the oral infectious source, as well as an orbital drainage whose approach will have been determined by the imaging. Conclusion: Orbital cellulitis is a rare complication of oral cavity infections, but it must be recognized and treated in time to avoid serious morbidity. An early medical and surgical treatment will usually allow good results and a healing process without sequelae.