bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Copper and graphene work together to construct a three‐dimensional skeleton thermal conductivity network to improve the thermal conductivity of the epoxy resin
Authors: Li Shuo , Wu Wei , Drummer Dietmar , Wang Yi , Lu Zijian , Zhao Xintong
Published: June 2023

With the development of integrated circuits, the miniaturization and integration of electronic devices has become a development trend, and the demand for heat dissipation is also increasing. Graphene three‐dimensional aerogels prepared from graphene has been widely used in the field of thermal management materials, but graphene aerogels also face the disadvantages of poor compatibility with resin matrix and high thermal resistance. In this study, a hybrid filler for depositing copper nanoparticles on the surface of graphene aerogel was prepared, and the hybrid aerogel filler showed excellent thermal conductivity, reduced the interfacial thermal resistance and contact thermal resistance, improved the interfacial thermal resistance with epoxy resin, and improved the interfacial compatibility. Under a low load of 2.5 wt%, the thermal conductivity of the prepared composite is as high as 2.09 Wm−1 K−1, which is about 11 times that of pure epoxy resin. It provides a simple idea for preparing high‐thermal conductivity three‐dimensional graphene epoxy resin composites with high thermal conductivity.
Effects of radiation on the fitness, sterility and arbovirus susceptibility of aWolbachia‐freeAedes albopictusstrain for use in the sterile insect technique
Authors: Zhang Dong‐jing , Sun Yan , Yamada Hanano , Wu Yu , Wang Gang , Feng Qing‐deng , Paerhande Dilinuer , Maiga Hamidou , Bouyer Jérémy , Qian Jun , Wu Zhong‐dao , Zheng Xiao‐ying
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

The sterile insect technique (SIT) is a green and species‐specific insect pest control technique that suppresses target populations by releasing factory‐reared, radiosterilized males into the wild. Once released, it is important to be able to distinguish the released males from the wild males for monitoring purposes. Several methods to mark the sterile males exist. However, most have limitations due to monetary, process efficiency, or insect quality.Aedes albopictusis naturally infected withWolbachiaat a high prevalence, therefore the elimination ofWolbachiacan serve as a biomarker to distinguish factory‐reared male mosquitoes from wild conspecifics.

RESULTS

In this study, aWolbachia‐freeAe. albopictusGT strain was developed and its fitness evaluated, which was found to be comparable to the wild GUA strain. In addition, GT male mosquitoes were irradiated at the adult stage and a dose of 20 Gy or more induced over 99% sterility. Moreover, a dose of 30 Gy (almost completely sterilizing male and female mosquitoes) had limited effects on the mating competitiveness of GT males and the vector competence of GT females, respectively. However, radiation reduced mosquito longevity, regardless of sex.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that theAe. albopictusGT strain can be distinguished from wild mosquitoes based onWolbachiastatus and shows similar fitness, radio‐sensitivity and arbovirus susceptibility to the GUA strain, indicating that it is feasible to use the GT strain to suppressAe. albopictuspopulations for SIT programmes. © 2023 The Authors.Pest Management Sciencepublished by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Age, gender, and cohort in residential segregation: The case of African immigrants in Spain, 2000–2020
Authors: Gastón‐Guiu Silvia , Bayona‐i‐Carrasco Jordi
Published: June 2023

The composition of the immigrant population by gender and age, and characteristics at the moment of arrival plays an influential role in the levels of residential segregation reached, and in their evolution over time. In Spain, the African immigrant population is notable for a marked gender imbalance, where men outnumber women, and for continuous growth in the number of immigrants over the past two decades. It is also one of the groups presenting the highest levels of segregation. Using data from the Continuous Population Register, this study analyses the residential segregation of this group from the triple perspective of age, period, and cohort for the six main Spanish cities. The results reveal a significant differentiation in segregation levels by sex and age, with lower rates in the more recent cohorts. This perspective offers a dynamic view of segregation indicators and enables better understanding of its future evolution.
Spectro‐Microscopic Perceptions into Oxidation Behavior of Large‐Scale Molybdenum Disulfide and its Photoelectrical Correlation
Authors: Kwon Yeong Min , Lim Yi Rang , Bae Garam , Song Da Som , Jo Hyeong‐ku , Park Se Yeon , Jang Moonjeong , Yim Soonmin , Myung Sung , Lim Jongsun , Lee Sun Sook , Song Wooseok
Published: June 2023

Despite the encouraging properties and research of 2D MoS2, an ongoing issue associated with the oxidative instability remains elusive for practical optoelectronic applications. Thus, in‐depth understanding of the oxidation behavior of large‐scale and homogeneous 2D MoS2 is imperative. Here the structural and chemical transformations of large‐area MoS2 multilayers by air‐annealing with altered temperature and time via combinatorial spectro‐microscopic analyses (Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy) are surveyed. The results gave indications pertaining to temperature‐ and time‐dependent oxidation effects: i) heat‐driven elimination of redundant residues, ii) internal strain stimulated by the formation of MoO bonds, iii) deterioration of the MoS2 crystallinity, iv) layer thinning, and v) morphological transformation from 2D MoS2 layers to particles. Photoelectrical characterization of the air‐annealed MoS2 is implemented to capture the link between the oxidation behavior of MoS2 multilayers and their photoelectrical properties. The photocurrent based on MoS2 air‐annealed at 200 °C is assessed to be 4.92 µA, which is 1.73 times higher than that of pristine MoS2 (2.84 µA). The diminution in the photocurrent of the photodetector based on MoS2 air‐annealed above 300 °C in terms of the structural, chemical, and electrical conversions induced by the oxidation process is further discussed.
Superhydrophilic Triazine‐Based Covalent Organic Frameworks via Post‐Modification of FeOOH Clusters for Boosted Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Wang Yue , Deng Yang , Xia Hong , Zhang Ruizhong , Liu Jia , Zhang Haixia , Sun Yajing , Zhang Zhen , Lu Xiaoquan
Published: June 2023

The triazine‐based covalent organic frameworks (tCOF), an intriguing subtype of COFs, are expected as highly promising photocatalysts for various photocatalytic applications owing to their fully conjugated structures and nitrogen‐rich skeletons. However, the inherent hydrophobicity and fast recombination of photoexcited electron‐hole pairs are two main factors hindering the application of tCOF in practical photocatalytic reactions. Here, a post‐synthetic modification strategy to fabricate superhydrophilic tCOF‐based photocatalysts is demonstrated by in situ growing FeOOH clusters on TaTz COF (TaTz‐FeOOH) for efficient photocatalytic oxidation of various organic pollutants. The strong polar FeOOH endows TaTz‐FeOOH with good hydrophilic properties. The well‐defined heterogeneous interface between FeOOH and TaTz allows the photoelectrons generated by TaTz to be consumed by Fe (III) to transform into Fe (II), synergistically promoting the separation of holes and the generation of free radicals. Compared with the unmodified TaTz, the optimized TaTz‐FeOOH (1%) shows excellent photocatalytic performance, where the photocatalytic degrade rate (k) of rhodamine B is increased by about 12 times, and the degradation rate is maintained at 99% after 5 cycles, thus achieving efficient removal of quinolone antibiotics from water. This study provides a new avenue for the development of COF‐based hydrophilic functional materials for a wide range of practical applications.
Liquid‐Metal‐Assisted Synthesis of Patterned GaN Thin Films for High‐Performance UV Photodetectors Array
Authors: Du Yuchen , Yin Shiqi , Li Ying , Chen Jiawang , Shi Dongfeng , Guo Erjuan , Zhang Hui , Wang Zihan , Qin Qinggang , Zou Chongwen , Zhai Tianyou , Li Liang
Published: June 2023

GaN's outstanding physical characteristics allow for a wide range of applications in numerous industries. Although individual GaN‐based ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors are the subject of in‐depth research in recent decades, the demand for photodetectors array is rising as a result of advances in optoelectronic integration technology. However, as a prerequisite for constructing GaN‐based photodetectors array, large‐area, patterned synthesis of GaN thin films remains a certain challenge. This work presents a facile technique for pattern growing high‐quality GaN thin films for the assembly of an array of high‐performance UV photodetectors. This technique uses UV lithography, which is not only very compatible with common semiconductor manufacturing techniques, but also enables precise patterning modification. A typical detector has impressive photo‐response performance under 365 nm irradiation, with an extremely low dark current of 40 pA, a high Ilight/Idark ratio over 105, a high responsivity of 4.23 AW−1, and a decent specific detectivity of 1.76 × 1012 Jones. Additional optoelectronic studies demonstrate the strong homogeneity and repeatability of the photodetectors array, enabling it to serve as a reliable UV image sensor with enough spatial resolution. These outcomes highlight the proposed patterning technique's enormous potential.
Privacy preserving content distribution framework for multidistributor DRM systems
Authors: Mishra Ankita , Obaidat Mohammad S. , Mishra Dheerendra
Published: June 2023

Growing network technology and computing facilities present greater opportunities for the e‐commerce industry to sell digital content on an easily assessable platform. However, digital content creators need help due to digital content easily copying and redistributing without quality degradation. Digital rights management (DRM) systems are built up to deal with content piracy and effective distribution. However, traditional two‐party DRM systems are client–server architecture, which may create a bottleneck situation for large networks. At the same time, a multidistributor DRM (MD‐DRM) system can offer content distribution more effectively. However, as the number of distributors increases, chances of security and privacy vulnerability may increase. Thus, a MD‐DRM system requires with an effective mechanism of privacy‐preserving and secure content distribution. We proposed a privacy‐preserving and authorized content distribution framework that remains compatible with multiple distributors and single‐distributor architecture to achieve basic security attributes. Besides, the proposed scheme does not breach the key parameters of accountability. This mechanism makes traitor identification possible without violating the privacy rights of authorized consumers in multidistributor architecture.
Nonintrusive Uncertainty Quantification in the Simulation of Steel Reheating Using Polynomial Chaos Expansion
Authors: Legkovskis Marks , Thomas Peter J. , Auinger Michael
Published: June 2023

Uncertainty quantification (UQ) is deemed critical in steel reheating simulations due to the significant input uncertainties arising when defining steel surface properties and atmospheric furnace conditions. In order to conduct UQ, the study utilizes polynomial chaos expansion, which has been found to significantly curtail the computational effort needed to obtain reliable convergent statistics for the model of interest. Results from a comprehensive UQ analysis of a walking‐beam reheat furnace simulated using Tata Steel's reheat furnace control model, online slab temperature calculation, are presented. Slab temperature evolution and oxide scale growth are chosen as the study's QoIs. The analysis reveals that at the earlier stages of reheating, the majority of the output variance in slab temperature can be traced back exclusively to the emissivity of the slab surface, and the majority of the output variance in oxide scale growth is traced back to the combination of slab's surface emissivity and the initial scale thickness found on steel products prior to reheating. However, as the steel product advances toward the furnace's discharge end, inputs related to oxide scale growth become increasingly important, ultimately becoming the most influential input parameters, although the dynamics of this transition differ between the QoIs.
Teaching English in the Muslim World against the Backdrop of 9/11 and Resurgent Nationalism: A Case Study of Bangladeshi ELT
Authors: Hamid M. Obaidul , Ali Md. Maksud
Published: June 2023

This article examines English language teaching (ELT) policy, textbooks, and pedagogy in the neo‐nationalist era that followed 9/11 in Muslim‐majority Bangladesh. Informed by the Douglas Fir Group's transdisciplinary framework of second language learning, the examination substantiates the ideologies of economization, de‐Islamization and awamization, which coalesce into the overarching ideology of secularization of ELT as a response to the global war on terror and the rise of neo‐nationalism in South Asia. This secular response to forces and developments in global, regional, and local contexts marks the distinctiveness of Bangladeshi ELT compared with other Muslim societies, which have sought to develop students' awareness of religious and cultural values while teaching English. The secularization of ELT can be explained by the rise of Hindutva nationalism in India and the latter's influence on the ruling Bangladesh Awami League government which has been in power for over 14 years. The article attests to the complex, multilayered ELT ideology shaped by local, regional, and global forces and interests, suggesting the formation of a national/social imaginary that seeks alliance with secular Muslims and non‐Muslim communities at home and in the region and excludes practicing Muslims in both contexts.
How many biomarker measurements are needed to predict prognosis in Crohn's disease patients under infliximab?—A prospective study
Authors: Magro Fernando , Estevinho Maria Manuela , Catalano Gaia , Patita Marta , Arroja Bruno , Lago Paula , Rosa Isadora , Tavares de Sousa Helena , Ministro Paula , Mocanu Irina , Vieira Ana , Castela Joana , Moleiro Joana , Roseira Joana , Cancela Eugénia , Sousa Paula , Portela Francisco , Correia Luís , Moreira Paula , Santiago Mafalda , Dias Sandra , Afonso Joana , Danese Silvio , Peyrin‐Biroulet Laurent , Dias Cláudia Camila ,   GEDII (Grupo de Estudos da Doença Inflamatória Intestinal)
Published: June 2023

Background

Timely stratification of Crohn's disease (CD) is essential for patients' management. The use of noninvasive accurate biomarkers is key to monitor treatment and to pursue mucosal healing, the ultimate treatment endpoint in CD.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the performance of readily available biomarkers and develop risk matrices to predict CD progression.

Methods

Data from 289 CD patients receiving infliximab (IFX) maintenance therapy for 2 years was collected; those patients were included in DIRECT, a prospective multicenter observational study. Disease progression was evaluated using two composite outcomes incorporating clinical and drug‐related factors, the first including IFX dose and/or frequency adjustments. Univariate and multivariable logistic regressions were used to calculate the odds ratios (OR) and to develop risk matrices.

Results

The isolated presence of anemia at least once during follow‐up was a significant predictor of disease progression (OR 2.436 and 3.396 [p ≤ 0.001] for composite outcomes 1 and 2, respectively) regardless of confounding factors. Isolated highly elevated C‐reactive protein (CRP; >10.0 mg/L) and fecal calprotectin (FC; >500.0 μg/g) in at least one visit were also significant predictors, while milder elevations (3.1–10.0 mg/L and 250.1–500.0 μg/g) were only relevant when detected in at least two visits (consecutive or not). The combination of biomarkers in risk matrices had good ability to predict progression; patients simultaneously presenting anemia, highly elevated CRP and FC at least once had 42%–63% probability of achieving the composite outcomes.

Conclusion

The combined evaluation of hemoglobin, CRP, and FC in at least one time point and their incorporation into risk matrices seems to be the optimal strategy for CD management, as data from additional visits did not meaningfully influence the predictions and may delay decision‐making.
Qualitative evaluation of the health insurance program in Nepal: Expectations beyond limitations
Authors: Acharya Devaraj , Raikhola Pushkar S. , Subedi Kusum R. , Devkota Bhimsen , Bhattarai Radha , Pathak Krishna P. , Kreps Gary L. , Ghimire Rabindra
Published: June 2023

The government of Nepal introduced a national health insurance program in 2016 to comply with the constitution and international commitments to ensure universal health coverage by 2030. This qualitative study explores public perceptions and satisfaction concerning the new health insurance program. The study is guided by an interpretive worldview using both in‐depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs). Altogether, 34 (28 IDIs and 6 FGDs) events were conducted covering both self‐ and government‐sponsored health insurance enrollees in the new health insurance program. The study found that insurees had larger expectations as well as both favorable and negative perceptions of the program. Positive perceptions included that the program helped to lower the gap between the wealthy and the poor, increase coverage with fewer financial contributions, and make it easier to receive health services financially. Negative perceptions included long waiting times for registration, consultations, laboratory test results, and pharmacy visits, as well as the lack of drugs, inadequate coverage (a low ceiling), low‐quality services, and strict procedures, which combined to make insurees dissatisfied. We noticed that insurees had expectations that went beyond the program's guidelines, such as the expectation that services would be provided without queues and long waits, that additional services and coverage would be provided, and that preference would be shown for patients who lived far from hospitals. Adequate information, education, and communication‐ and process‐related interventions that address these issues may help minimize the insurees' unrealistic expectations and areas of dissatisfaction.
Theoretical Considerations: Recontextualization and Reformulation in Popularization Discourse
Authors: Sterk Florentine Marnel , van Goch Merel M.
Published: June 2023

This chapter establishes popularization discourse as a genre. In doing so, a distinction can be made between the act of popularization itself and the resulting product of popularization discourse in the form of texts. Popularization draws academic findings into the realm of society and everyday life, which means the focus shifts from the researched phenomenon itself to claims about newsworthiness and the application of findings. The chapter also discusses the two main subgenres of science communication and science journalism, which differ mostly in terms of who produces the discourse, that is, a researcher versus a journalist. The positionality of academic discourse versus popularization discourse is discussed, as the two discourses used to be seen as distinct genres but should be considered as different points on a continuum. The focus is on reformulation and recontextualization as the two main processes in the textual construction of popularization discourse.
Early Dark Energy in Type IIB String Theory
Authors: Cicoli Michele , Licheri Matteo , Mahanta Ratul , McDonough Evan , Pedro Francisco G. , Scalisi Marco
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Early Dark Energy (EDE) is a promising model to resolve the Hubble Tension, that, informed by Cosmic Microwave Background data, features a generalization of the potential energy usually associated with axion-like particles. We develop realizations of EDE in type IIB string theory with the EDE field identified as either aC4orC2axion and with full closed string moduli stabilization within the framework of either KKLT or the Large Volume Scenario. We explain how to achieve a natural hierarchy between the EDE energy scale and that of the other fields within a controlled effective field theory. We argue that the data-driven EDE energy scale and decay constant can be achieved without any tuning of the microscopic parameters for EDE fields that violate the weak gravity conjecture, while for states that respect the conjecture it is necessary to introduce a fine-tuning. This singles out as the most promising EDE candidates, amongst several working models, theC2axions in LVS with 3 non-perturbative corrections to the superpotential generated by gaugino condensation on D7-branes with non-zero world-volume fluxes.
Clozapine but not lithium reverses aberrant tyrosine uptake in patients with bipolar disorder
Authors: Tabrisi R , Harun-Rashid MD , Montero J , Venizelos N , Msghina M
Published: June 2023

Rationale

Availability of the dopamine and noradrenaline precursor tyrosine is critical for normal functioning, and deficit in tyrosine transport across cell membrane and the blood-brain barrier has been reported in bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Clozapine and lithium are two psychoactive agents used to treat psychosis, mood disorders and suicidal behavior, but their mechanism of action remains largely unknown.

Objective

To characterize immediate and delayed differences in tyrosine uptake between healthy controls (HC) and bipolar patients (BP) and see if these differences could be normalized by either clozapine, lithium or both. A second objective was to see if clozapine and lithium have additive, antagonistic or synergistic effects in this.

Method

Fibroblasts from five HC and five BP were incubated for 5 min or 6 h with clozapine, lithium, or combination of both. Radioactive labelled tyrosine was used to quantify tyrosine membrane transport.

Results

There was significantly reduced tyrosine uptake at baseline in BP compared to HC, a deficit that grew with increasing incubation time. Clozapine selectively increased tyrosine uptake in BP and abolished the deficit seen under baseline conditions, while lithium had no such effect. Combination treatment with clozapine and lithium was less effective than when clozapine was used alone.

Conclusions

There was significant deficit in tyrosine transport in BP compared to HC that was reversed by clozapine but not lithium. Clozapine was more effective when used alone than when added together with lithium. Potential clinical implications of this will be discussed.
Correlating MRI features with additional genetic markers and patient survival in histological grade 2-3 IDH-mutant astrocytomas
Authors: Lasocki Arian , Buckland Michael E. , Molinaro Tahlia , Xie Jing , Whittle James R. , Wei Heng , Gaillard Frank
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The increasing importance of molecular markers for classification and prognostication of diffuse gliomas has prompted the use of imaging features to predict genotype (“radiogenomics”). CDKN2A/B homozygous deletion has only recently been added to the diagnostic paradigm for IDH[isocitrate dehydrogenase]-mutant astrocytomas; thus, associated radiogenomic literature is sparse. There is also little data on whether different IDH mutations are associated with different imaging appearances. Furthermore, given that molecular status is now generally obtained routinely, the additional prognostic value of radiogenomic features is less clear. This study correlated MRI features with CDKN2A/B status, IDH mutation type and survival in histological grade 2-3 IDH-mutant brain astrocytomas.

Methods

Fifty-eight grade 2–3 IDH-mutant astrocytomas were identified, 50 with CDKN2A/B results. IDH mutations were stratified into IDH1-R132H and non-canonical mutations. Background and survival data were obtained. Two neuroradiologists independently assessed the following MRI features: T2-FLAIR mismatch (<25%, 25–50%, >50%), well-defined tumour margins, contrast-enhancement (absent, wispy, solid) and central necrosis.

Results

8/50 tumours with CDKN2A/B results demonstrated homozygous deletion; slightly shorter survival was not significant (p=0.571). IDH1-R132H mutations were present in 50/58 (86%). No MRI features correlated with CDKN2A/B status or IDH mutation type. T2-FLAIR mismatch did not predict survival (p=0.977), but well-defined margins predicted longer survival (HR 0.36, p=0.008), while solid enhancement predicted shorter survival (HR 3.86, p=0.004). Both correlations remained significant on multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

MRI features did not predict CDKN2A/B homozygous deletion, but provided additional positive and negative prognostic information which correlated more strongly with prognosis than CDKN2A/B status in our cohort.
A prognostic model for predicting progression-free survival in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer after image-guided microwave ablation plus chemotherapy
Authors: Kong Fanhao , Yang Honglan , Wang Qiaoxia , Wei Zhigang , Ye Xin
Published: June 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to build and validate a prediction model that can predict progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after image-guided microwave ablation (MWA) plus chemotherapy.

Methods

Data from a previous multi-center randomized controlled trial (RCT) was used and assigned to either the training data set or the external validation data set according to the location of the centers. Potential prognostic factors were identified by multivariable analysis in the training data set and used to construct a nomogram. After bootstraps internal and external validation, the predictive performance was evaluated by concordance index (C-index), Brier Score, and calibration curves. Risk group stratification was conducted using the score calculated by the nomogram. Then a simplified scoring system was built to make risk group stratification more convenient.

Results

In total, 148 patients (training data set: n = 112; external validation data set: n = 36) were enrolled for analysis. Six potential predictors were identified and entered into the nomogram, including weight loss, histology, clinical TNM stage, clinical N category, tumor location, and tumor size. The C-indexes were 0.77 (95% CI, 0.65–0.88, internal validation) and 0.64 (95% CI, 0.43–0.85, external validation). The survival curves of different risk groups also displayed significant distinction (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

We found weight loss, histology, clinical TNM stage, clinical N category, tumor location, and tumor size were prognostic factors of progression after receiving MWA plus chemotherapy and constructed a prediction model that can predict PFS.

Clinical relevance statement

The nomogram and scoring system will assist physicians to predict the individualized PFS of their patients and decide whether to perform or terminate MWA and chemotherapy according to the expected benefits.

Key Points

• Build and validate a prognostic model using the data from a previous randomized controlled trial to predict progression-free survival after receiving MWA plus chemotherapy.

• Weight loss, histology, clinical TNM stage, clinical N category, tumor location, and tumor size were prognostic factors.

• The nomogram and scoring system published by the prediction model can be used to assist physicians to make clinical decisions.
Formative Evaluierung des personzentrierten Lehrgangs für psychotherapeutischer Medizin in Auseinandersetzung zur personzentrierten Psychotherapieausbildung und Lerntheorie
Authors: Badegruber Michaela , Leibetseder Bettina
Published: June 2023

Mit dem personzentrierten Lehrgang (PSY3) für psychotherapeutische Medizin erwerben Ärzt:innen in der psychiatrischen Facharztausbildung der Kepler Universitätsklinik Linz die Berechtigung, eigenständig und selbstverantwortlich psychotherapeutisch-medizinische Behandlungen laut ÖÄK-Diplomrichtlinie durchzuführen. Nun stellt sich die Frage, in wieweit die PSY3 Ausbildung den personzentrierten theoretischen Rahmen vermittelt, welche psychotherapeutischen Handlungskompetenzen erworben werden und ob eine adäquate Persönlichkeitsentwicklung der Ausbildungskandidat:innen stattfindet. Die Ergebnisse einer formativen Evaluierung des Lehrgangs zeigen, dass die Absolvent:innen die determinierten Ausbildungsziele und die nötigen beruflichen Handlungskompetenzen in Bezug zum personzentrierten theoretischen Rahmen erreichen. In Auseinandersetzung mit der personzentrierten Psychotherapieausbildung bestehen aber Unterschiede, da die Lernziele der Psychotherapieausbildung in höheren Taxonomiestufen angesiedelt sind. Eine gesetzliche bzw. curriculare Anpassung der Ärzt:innenausbildung oder ein zusätzliches Up-Grade könnten den Ausgleich der Unterschiede zwischen PSY3 und Psychotherapieausbildung ermöglichen.
An efflux pump in genomic island GI-M202a mediates the transfer of polymyxin B resistance in Pandoraea pnomenusa M202
Authors: Gao Wenhui , Li Congcong , Wang Fengtian , Yang Yilin , Zhang Lu , Wang Zhongxue , Chen Xi , Tan Meixia , Cao Guangxiang , Zong Gongli
Published: June 2023

Background

Polymyxin B is considered a last-line therapeutic option against multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria, especially in COVID-19 coinfections or other serious infections. However, the risk of antimicrobial resistance and its spread to the environment should be brought to the forefront.

Methods

Pandoraea pnomenusa M202 was isolated under selection with 8 mg/L polymyxin B from hospital sewage and then was sequenced by the PacBio RS II and Illumina HiSeq 4000 platforms. Mating experiments were performed to evaluate the transfer of the major facilitator superfamily (MFS) transporter in genomic islands (GIs) to Escherichia coli 25DN. The recombinant E. coli strain Mrc-3 harboring MFS transporter encoding gene FKQ53_RS21695 was also constructed. The influence of efflux pump inhibitors (EPIs) on MICs was determined. The mechanism of polymyxin B excretion mediated by FKQ53_RS21695 was investigated by Discovery Studio 2.0 based on homology modeling.

Results

The MIC of polymyxin B for the multidrug-resistant bacterial strain P. pnomenusa M202, isolated from hospital sewage, was 96 mg/L. GI-M202a, harboring an MFS transporter-encoding gene and conjugative transfer protein-encoding genes of the type IV secretion system, was identified in P. pnomenusa M202. The mating experiment between M202 and E. coli 25DN reflected the transferability of polymyxin B resistance via GI-M202a. EPI and heterogeneous expression assays also suggested that the MFS transporter gene FKQ53_RS21695 in GI-M202a was responsible for polymyxin B resistance. Molecular docking revealed that the polymyxin B fatty acyl group inserts into the hydrophobic region of the transmembrane core with Pi-alkyl and unfavorable bump interactions, and then polymyxin B rotates around Tyr43 to externally display the peptide group during the efflux process, accompanied by an inward-to-outward conformational change in the MFS transporter. Additionally, verapamil and CCCP exhibited significant inhibition via competition for binding sites.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrated that GI-M202a along with the MFS transporter FKQ53_RS21695 in P. pnomenusa M202 could mediate the transmission of polymyxin B resistance.
The importance of pregnancy registries for the management of women with epilepsy and childbearing potential: Emphasis on EURAP
Authors: Tomson Torbjörn , Battino Dina
Published: June 2023

In light of the increased awareness of the teratogenic risks with older-generation antiseizure medications (ASMs) and the introduction of many new drugs, prospective antiepileptic drugs and pregnancy registries were introduced some 25 years ago by various independent research groups. The overall aim of these registries is to compare different treatment alternatives with respect to the risk of major congenital malformations (MCM) in the exposed offspring and thus facilitate rational, evidence-based management of women with epilepsy and childbearing potential. The UK and Ireland Epilepsy and Pregnancy Register, the North American AED Pregnancy Registry, EURAP (The International Antiepileptic Drugs and Pregnancy Registry), the Raoul Wallenberg Australian Pregnancy Register, and the Kerala Registry of Epilepsy and Pregnancy are the most important registries established for assessment of specifically the safety of ASMs. Since it is the largest, and being initially European based, EURAP is the focus of this overview of the contribution of pregnancy registries over the years. EURAP and the other registries have provided important information on pregnancy outcomes with the most frequently used ASMs in monotherapy, thereby identifying higher prevalence of MCMs with valproate and topiramate, whereas the risk appears low with lamotrigine and levetiracetam. Further, for several ASMs the risk appears to be dose-dependent. The registries continue to play an important role in efforts to assess the safety of the newer ASMs and of specific combination therapies. Unlike administrative population-based registries, these specific prospective ASM registries also include important information on the mothers’ epilepsy and seizure control.
The influence of autologous cytokine-induced killer cell treatment on the objective efficacy and safety of gefitinib in advanced non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Qu Shuxian , Liu Zhaozhe , Zheng Zhendong , Ding Zhenyu , Han Tao , Guo Fang , Qiu Jianing , Xie Xiaodong , Ma Dongchu
Published: June 2023

Objective

The aim of the study was to observe the influence of autologous cytokine-induced killer cell (CIK) treatment on the objective efficacy and safety of gefitinib in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Sixty-six patients with NSCLC received gefitinib as second-line treatment. They were randomly divided into 2 groups, and informed consent forms were signed before grouping. Gefitinib was administrated to the control group, and autologous CIK treatment was added to the observation group. The objective treatment and adverse reactions were evaluated in both groups. Results The objective response rate (ORR) and the disease control rate (DCR) of the observation group were slightly higher than those of the control group, although no statistical differences were found between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). The incidences of diarrhea, fatigue, anorexia, oral ulcers, and myelosuppression in the observation group were much lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). However, there were no statistical differences between the incidences of skin rash, and liver and kidney toxicities (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Autologous CIK in combination with gefitinib is effective as second-line treatment for advanced NSCLC, and can significantly reduce adverse reactions and improve the objective efficacy.
Novel patterns of cancer genome evolution
Authors: Zhang Xia , Deng Xiaodi , Zhang Yu , Li Zhiguang
Published: June 2023

Cells usually undergo a long journey of evolution during the progression from normal to precancerous cells and finally to full-fledged cancer cells. Multiple genomic aberrations are acquired during this journey that could either act as drivers to confer significant growth advantages or act as passengers with little effect on the tumor growth. Recent advances in sequencing technology have made it feasible to decipher the evolutionary course of a cancer cell on a genome-wide level by evaluating the relative number of mutated alleles. Novel terms such as chromothripsis and chromoplexy have been introduced to describe the newly identified patterns of cancer genome evolution. These new insights have greatly expanded our understanding of the initiation and progression of cancers, which should aid in improving the efficiency of cancer management and treatment.
Intravoxel incoherent motion magnetic resonance imaging for diagnosis of cervical cancer and evaluation of response of uterine cervical cancer to radiochemotherapy: A pilot study ⁎
Authors: Wang Yanchun , Hu Shan , Hu Xuemei , Li Jianjun , Shen Yaqi , Liu Xiaoyu , Wang Zhi , Meng Xiaoyan , Li Zhen , Hu Daoyu
Published: June 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to diagnose cervical cancer and to evaluate the response of uterine cervical cancer to radiochemotherapy (CRT).

Methods

This prospective study was approved by the institutional review board, and informed consent was obtained from all patients. A total of 23 patients with primary cervical cancer who were undergoing CRT and 16 age-matched healthy subjects were prospectively recruited for IVIM (b = 0-800 s/mm2) and standard pelvic MRI. Bi-exponential analysis was performed to derive f (perfusion fraction), D⁎ (pseudo-diffusion coefficient), and D (true molecular diffusion coefficient) in cervical cancer (n = 23) and the normal cervix (n = 16). The apparent diffusion coefficient (standard ADC) was calculated. The independent-samples t-test and paired-samples t-test were used for comparisons.

Results

Pre-treatment cervical cancer had the lowest standard ADC (1.15 ± 0.13 × 10-3 mm2/s) and D (0.89 ± 0.10 × 10-3 mm2/s) values, and these were significantly different from the normal cervix and posttreatment cervical cancer (P = 0.00). The f (16.67 ± 5.85%) was lowest in pre-treatment cervical cancer and was significantly different from the normal cervix and post-treatment cervical cancer (p = 0.012 and 0.00, respectively). No difference was observed in D⁎.

Conclusion

IVIM is potentially promising for differentiating between the normal cervix and cervical cancer because pre-treated cervical cancer has low perfusion and diffusion IVIM characteristics. Further, the standard ADC, D, and f of cervical cancer showed a tendency to normalize after CRT; thus, IVIM may be useful for monitoring the response to CRT in cervical cancer.
A clinical study on salvage hepatectomy for treating recurrent liver cancer after radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Xiong Qing , Feng Xiaobin , Yan Jun , Xia Feng , Li Xiaowu , Ma Kuansheng , Bie Ping
Published: June 2023

Objective

We studied the efficacy of salvage hepatectomy for treating recurrent hepatic cancer after radiofrequency ablation (RFA).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 67 patients who had recurrent liver cancer after RFA treatment and received salvage hepatectomy in the Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (China), from January 2006 to January 2014, was performed. The analysis included patient gender, age, hepatitis type, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and TNM stage prior to RFA and salvage hepatectomy, overall survival rates, and tumor-free survival rates after salvage hepatectomy.

Results

Among the 67 patients, there were 57 cases of hepatitis B, two cases of hepatitis C, and eight cases did not have hepatitis. AFP levels in patients ranged from 3 to 4521 ng/mL (median 33 ng/mL). Before RFA, 54 cases were stage I tumors, and 13 were stage II tumors. Tumor sizes varied from 0.82 to 4.83 cm (median 3.0 cm). In 20 cases, one RFA was performed, and for 47 cases, RFA was repeated. RFAablated region diameters ranged from 3.8 to 5.2 cm (median 4.5 cm). The interval between the salvage surgical resection and RFA was 3-37 months. Before salvage hepatectomy, 23 stage I tumors, 12 stage II tumors, and 32 stage III tumors were present (size ranged 4.83-11.84 cm; median 6.3 cm). For salvage hepatectomy, laparotomy was performed for 56 cases, and laparoscopy was performed for 28 cases. Inflow clamping was performed for 39 cases (15-45 min). Surgery was 219-370 min and intraoperative blood loss was 100-2100 mL. For 13 cases, intraoperative blood transfusion was required. Tumor pathological data revealed 31, 35, and 1 poorly, moderately, and well differentiated tumors, respectively. No patients died due to operative complications, and hospital stays were 8-10 days. Overall and tumor-free survival rates were 85% and 79% for 1 year, 50% and 20% for 3 years, and 39% and 19% for 5 years, respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression confirmed that tumor number and size prior to salvage liver cancer were risk factors affecting survival.

Conclusion

Patients who received RFA to treat early-stage liver cancer with postoperative recurrent stage I tumors have satisfactory outcomes with salvage hepatectomy.
Prognostic value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in metastatic colorectal cancer ⁎
Authors: Yu Qianqian , Qiu Hong , Zhang Mingsheng , Hu Guangyuan , Huang Liu , Yuan Xianglin
Published: June 2023

Objective

This study investigated the prognostic value of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in predicting clinical outcomes of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) undergoing irinotecanbased first-line chemotherapy.

Methods

This study was based on a Chinese prospective multicenter trial (NCT01282658). Baseline complete blood cell counts were performed. Survival was determined using the Kaplan-Meier method. Multivariate analyses based on the Cox regression model were performed to determine the effects of independent biomarkers.

Results

A total of 139 patients were evaluated. Values below the median NLR were associated with better progression-free survival (PFS) (9.9 vs 7.7 months, P = 0.043) and overall survival (OS) (21.8 vs 15.1 months, P = 0.013). These effects remained significant in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

NLR is an independent prognostic marker of mCRC treated with first-line irinotecan-based therapy in a Chinese population.
Effect of parathyroid hormone on apoptosis of human medullary thyroid carcinoma cells*
Authors: Hou Xiaofeng , Liu Qinjiang , Tian Youxin
Published: June 2023

Objective

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of parathyroid hormone (PTH) on the apoptosis of human medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) cells.

Methods

In vitro cultured medullary thyroid carcinoma cell lines were treated with parathyroid hormone and parathyroid hormone receptor-monoclonal antibody, and the apoptosis of cells was detected by flow cytometry.

Results

The cell morphology changed significantly after treatment based on the observation using the inverted phase-contrast microscope. Various concentrations of parathyroid hormone and parathyroid hormone receptor-monoclonal antibody effectively induced apoptosis in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. When the concentration of parathyroid hormone was 2.0 µmol/L and that of parathyroid hormone receptor-monoclonal antibody was 1.0 µmol/L, the apoptotic rate was 13.24% and 20.78%, respectively, representing a statistically significant difference from that of the control cells (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

PTH plays a role in inducing apoptosis of human MTC cells.
Papillary serous carcinoma of the uterine cervix: a clinicopathological analysis of 4 cases and a literature review
Authors: Ge Li , Yao Hongwen , Zhang Rong , Li Xiaoguang , Wu Lingying
Published: June 2023

Objective

To investigate the clinicopathological characteristics and clinical treatment outcomes of patients with papillary serous carcinoma of the uterine cervix (PSCC).

Methods

In this study, 4 patients with histologically confirmed papillary serous carcinoma of the uterine cervix were retrospectively investigated. Pap smears, human papillomavirus (HPV) screening, tumor marker status, biopsy analysis, and relevant imaging examinations were conducted for the confirmation of primary diagnosis and recurrence. Patients underwent surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy, and survival were the main endpoint.

Results

The 4 patients were diagnosed with IB1, IB1, IIA, or IIIB disease. Two patients (2/4) presented with recurrence within 18 months after primary therapy. Compared with chemotherapy alone (progression-free survival (PFS): 11 months), radiotherapy combined with adjuvant chemotherapy showed favorable PFS rates (PFS: 20, 36, 13 months in 3 cases), although valid statistical analysis was not feasible because of the small sample size. The 5-year survival rate was 0%, and the 3-year survival rate was 75%. Our data, in agreement with the literature evidence, showed that the number of moderate-risk and high-risk factors in patients diagnosed with PSCC at an early stage was higher than that in patients diagnosed with common adenocarcinoma/squamous carcinoma of the uterine cervix.

Conclusion

PSCC has a poor clinical prognosis, and compared with chemotherapy alone, radiotherapy combined with adjuvant chemotherapy may lead to improved PFS.
Correlation between sodium-iodide symporter expression and circulating tumor cell positivity in differentiated thyroid carcinoma*
Authors: Wang Yunsheng , Liu Qinjiang , Tian Youxin
Published: June 2023

Objective

We investigated the correlation between the expression of the sodium-iodide symporter (NIS) and the detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC).

Methods

NIS expression in differentiated thyroid and the positive rate of CTCs in the peripheral blood were determined by immunohistochemistry S-P and flow cytometry from the records of 172 cases of differentiated thyroid carcinoma.

Results

Seventy-six cases (44.2%) expressed NIS in the differentiated thyroid and 63 cases (36.6%) were positive for CTCs in the peripheral blood. There was a significant difference between N0 and N1 in the expression of NIS (χ2= 6.015,P= 0.014) and the positive rate of CTCs (χ2= 14.035,P= 0.001). N0 and N1 also differed significantly in the expression of NIS (r= -0.383, -0.610,P= 0.002, < 0.001). The differences in the NIS expression, but not in the positive rate of CTCs, were significant among the different pathological subtypes (χ2= 7.897,P= 0.005; χ2= 1.455,P= 0.228, respectively). There was a significant negative correlation between the highly differentiated type and intermediate differentiation type both in the expression of NIS and positive rate of CTCs (r= -0.591, -0.443,P< 0.001,P= 0.002).

Conclusion

There was a significant negative correlation between the expression of tissue NIS and positive rate of CTCs in the peripheral blood in DTC. The malignancy level and lymph node metastasis in differentiated thyroid carcinoma were negatively correlated with NIS expression and positively correlated with the positive rate of CTC.
Role of serum lactate dehydrogenase levels in evaluating efficacy of interventional therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Zhihong , Ji Hong , Qiu Qiong , Wang Jianlan
Published: June 2023

Objective

The aim of the study was to investigate the role of serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels in evaluating the efficacy of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) for primary liver cancer.

Methods

A total of 52 patients with liver cancer admitted in our hospital (Huangzhou District People's Hospital, Huanggang, China) from June 2015 to December 2017 were selected and divided into control group (LDH of ≤ 450 U/L,n= 26) and observation group (LDH of > 450 U/L,n= 26), based on the pretreatment level of LDH. Based on the changes in serum LDH levels before and after treatment, patients were classified into two groups: LDH increased group (22 cases) and LDH decreased group (30 cases). The relationship between LDH levels and efficacy of TACE treatment was analyzed in the four groups retrospectively.

Results

No significant difference was seen in the clinical characteristics (gender, median age, performance status Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group, and staging system) between the control and observation groups. The efficacy rate in the control group was 57.7%, whereas that in the observation group was 42.3% (P> 0.05). The 1-year survival rate in the observation group was 53.8% and that in the control group was 84.6% (P< 0.05).

Conclusion

Serum LDH levels may be of clinical value in evaluating the efficacy of TACE in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.