bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of a Highly Electroactive Composite Based on Au Nanoparticles Supported on Nanoporous Activated Carbon for Electrocatalysis
Authors: Moggia Giulia , Hoekx Saskia , Daems Nick , Bals Sara , Breugelmans Tom
Published: September 2023

A facile, “one‐pot”, chemical approach to synthesize gold‐based nanoparticles finely dispersed on porous activated carbon (Norit) was demonstrated in this work. The pH of the synthesis bath played a critical role in determining the optimal gold‐carbon interaction, which enabled a successful deposition of the gold nanoparticles onto the carbon matrix with a maximized metal utilization of 93 %. The obtained AuNP/C nanocomposite was characterized using SEM, HAADF‐STEM electron tomography and electrochemical techniques. It was found that the Au nanoparticles, with diameters between 5 and 20 nm, were evenly distributed over the carbon matrix, both inside and outside the pores. Electrochemical characterization indicated that the composite had a very large electroactive surface area (EASA), as high as 282.4 m2 gAu−1. By exploiting its very high EASA, the catalyst was intended to boost the productivity of glucaric acid in the electrooxidation of its precursor, gluconic acid. However, cyclic voltammetry experiments revealed a very limited reactivity towards gluconic acid oxidation, due to the spacial hindrance of gluconic acid molecule which prevented diffusion inside the catalyst nanopores. On the other hand, the as‐synthesized nanocomposite promises to be effective towards the ORR, and might thus find potential application as anode catalyst for fuel cells as well as for the scalability of all those electrochemical reactions involving small molecules with high diffusivity and catalysed by noble metals (i. e. CO2, CH4, N2, etc..).
Blue‐Light Driven Iron‐Catalyzed Oxy‐phosphinylation of Activated Alkenes for β‐Ketophosphine Oxide Synthesis
Authors: Yuan Yumeng , Huang Qiufeng , Darcel Christophe
Published: September 2023

We have developed an original blue‐light mediated iron‐catalyzed oxy‐phosphinylation of activated alkenes by secondary phosphine oxides under air at room temperature. Various β‐ketophosphine oxides were then obtained in 43–97 % isolated yields. Control experiments revealed that radical process is involved in the mechanism.
Real‐world evidence that among atrial fibrillation patients warfarin is associated with reduced nonelective admissions compared with those on DOACs
Authors: Yu Dahai , Brown Julian , David Strain W. , Simmons David
Published: September 2023

Background

Randomized trials show inconsistent estimates on risks of direct‐acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) versus warfarin in bleeding and mortality for atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. Trials are confounded by additional DOAC adherence support, while warfarin has a low time in therapeutic range. Few real‐world studies compared emergency hospitalization risk between DOAC and warfarin users in AF. This study aimed to determine emergency hospitalization risk for AF patients on DOACs or warfarin in real‐world settings.

Methods

A tapered‐matched real‐world cohort extracted data from 412 English general practices' primary care records linked with emergency department (ED) and hospitalization data from the ECLIPSE database. AF patients with new DOAC or warfarin prescriptions were included. The primary outcome was all‐cause ED attendance; the secondary outcomes were ED re‐attendance, nonelective hospitalization, and rehospitalization within 12 months. Weighted Cox regression estimated relative risk difference.

Results

39 201 DOAC patients were matched with 13 145 warfarin patients. DOAC patients had a 25% higher likelihood of attending ED (odds ratio 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.55). DOAC use also associated with higher ED re‐attendance, nonelective hospitalization, and rehospitalization within 12 months: 1.41 (95% CI 1.00–1.98), 1.26 (1.00–1.57), and 1.54 (1.01–2.34), respectively, with p‐values < .05.

Conclusions

DOACs for AF thromboprophylaxis are associated with the increased risk of ED attendance, recurrent hospitalization, and numerical rise in ED re‐attendance and first nonelective hospitalization compared to warfarin. However, these real‐world data cannot establish if this difference results from medication adherence, lack of regular DOAC clinic monitoring, unmeasured confounders, or fundamental agent efficacy disparities.
Critical local well‐posedness for the fully nonlinear Peskin problem
Authors: Cameron Stephen , Strain Robert M.
Published: September 2023

We study the problem where a one‐dimensional elastic string is immersed in a two‐dimensional steady Stokes fluid. This is known as the Stokes immersed boundary problem and also as the Peskin problem. We consider the case with equal viscosities and with a fully non‐linear tension law; this model has been called the fully nonlinear Peskin problem. In this case we prove local in time wellposedness for arbitrary initial data in the scaling critical Besov space . We additionally prove the optimal higher order smoothing effects for the solution. To prove this result we derive a new formulation of the boundary integral equation that describes the parametrization of the string, and we crucially utilize a new cancelation structure.
Value Added Conversion of Ethanol on Morphologically Controlled and Defect‐Engineered Titanium Dioxide Nanorods
Authors: Wang Zining , Qin Yumei , Chen Yu , Zhang Yuchen , Chen Qiwei , Zhou Xiong , Wu Kai
Published: September 2023

Developing an environmentally benign and highly effective strategy for the value‐added conversion of biomass platform molecules such as ethanol has emerged as a significant challenge and opportunity. This challenge stems from the need to harness renewable solar energy and conduct thermodynamically unfavorable reactions at room temperature. To tackle this challenge, one‐dimensional titanium dioxide photocatalysts have been designed and fabricated to achieve a remarkable photocatalytic selectivity of almost 100 % for transforming ethanol into value‐added 1,1‐diethoxyethane, contrasting the primary production of acetaldehyde in titanium dioxide nanoparticles. By incorporating a Pt co‐catalyst and infusing oxygen vacancies into the one‐dimensional catalyst, the ethanol transformation rate was doubled to 128.8 mmol g−1 h−1 with respect to that of its unmodified counterpart (about 66.7 mmol g−1 h−1). The underlying mechanism for this high conversion and selectivity resides in the narrowed bandgap of the catalyst and the prolonged lifetime of the photo‐generated carriers. This is a promising strategy for the photocatalytic transformation of essential biomass platform molecules that intertwines morphological control and defect engineering.
Zwitterionic “Solutions” for Reversible CO2 Capture
Authors: Aydos Guilherme L. P. , Marin Graciane , Ebeling Günter , dos Santos Francisco P. , Leal Bárbara C. , Zink Rafael D. , Vargas Brenda A. , Migowski Pedro , Stieler Rafael , de Araújo Bruno B. , Gonçalves Paulo , Stassen Hubert K. , dos Santos Pereira Leonardo , Musse Ana Paula , Dupont Jairton
Published: September 2023

The zwitterions resulting from the covalent attachment of 3‐ or 4‐hydroxy benzene to the 1,3‐dimethylimidazolium cation represent basic compounds (pKa of 8.68 and 8.99 in aqueous solutions, respectively) that chemisorb in aqueous solutions 0.58 mol/mol of carbon dioxide at 1.3 bar (absolute) and 40 °C. Equimolar amounts of chemisorbed CO2 in these solutions are obtained at 10 bar and 40 °C. Chemisorption takes place through the formation of bicarbonate in the aqueous solution using imidazolium‐containing phenolate. CO2 is liberated by simple pressure relief and heating, regenerating the base. The enthalpy of absorption was estimated to be −38 kJ/mol, which is about 30 % lower than the enthalpy of industrially employed aqueous solutions of MDEA (estimated at −53 kJ/mol using the same experimental apparatus). The physisorption of CO2 becomes relevant at higher pressures (>10 bar) in these aqueous solutions. Combined physio‐ and chemisorption of up to 1.3 mol/mol at 40 bar and 40 °C can be attained with these aqueous zwitterionic solutions that are thermally stable and can be recycled at least 20 times.
Is Ethanol Essential for the Lithium‐Mediated Nitrogen Reduction Reaction?
Authors: Bjarke Valbæk Mygind Jon , Pedersen Jakob B. , Li Katja , Deissler Niklas H. , Saccoccio Mattia , Fu Xianbiao , Li Shaofeng , Sažinas Rokas , Andersen Suzanne Z. , Enemark‐Rasmussen Kasper , Vesborg Peter C. K. , Doganli‐Kibsgaard Jakob , Chorkendorff Ib
Published: September 2023

The lithium‐mediated nitrogen reduction reaction (Li‐NRR) is a promising method for decentralized ammonia synthesis using renewable energy. An organic electrolyte is utilized to combat the competing hydrogen evolution reaction, and lithium is plated to activate the inert N2 molecule. Ethanol is commonly used as a proton shuttle to provide hydrogen to the activated nitrogen. In this study, we investigate the role of ethanol as a proton shuttle in an electrolyte containing tetrahydrofuran and 0.2 M lithium perchlorate. Particularly designed electrochemical experiments show that ethanol is necessary for a good solid‐electrolyte interphase but not for the synthesis of ammonia. In addition, electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM) demonstrates that the SEI formation at the onset of lithium plating is of specific importance. Chemical batch synthesis of ammonia combined with real‐time mass spectrometry confirms that protons can be shuttled from the anode to the cathode by other species even without ethanol. Moreover, it raises questions regarding the electrochemical nature of Li‐NRR. Finally, we discuss electrolyte stability and electrochemical electrode potentials, highlighting the role of ethanol on electrolyte degradation.
Hyaline cell‐rich chondroid syringoma: A potential pitfall on cytology
Authors: Sharma Sudha , Chatterjee Debajyoti , Kanwar Arvind
Published: September 2023

Chondroid syringoma is a rare adnexal tumor of skin, with few cases diagnosed on fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). Hyaline cell‐rich chondroid syringoma (HCRCS) is a very uncommon variant of chondroid syringoma described in histopathologic studies. This variant differs from the usual chondroid syringoma in its site of presentation, cytohistologic features, and morphologically mimics malignant neoplasms. To the best of our knowledge, cytologic features of this entity have never been described. This case report highlights some unusual features of this tumor and discusses the cytologic features of HCRCS along with neoplastic mimics.
How Does Stacking Pressure Affect the Performance of Solid Electrolytes and All‐Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries?
Authors: Sang Junwu , Tang Bin , Qiu Yong , Fang Yongzheng , Pan Kecheng , Zhou Zhen
Published: September 2023

All‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries (ASSLMBs) with solid electrolytes (SEs) have emerged as a promising alternative to liquid electrolyte‐based Li‐ion batteries due to their higher energy density and safety. However, since ASSLMBs lack the wetting properties of liquid electrolytes, they require stacking pressure to prevent contact loss between electrodes and SEs. Though previous studies showed that stacking pressure could impact certain performance aspects, a comprehensive investigation into the effects of stacking pressure has not been conducted. To address this gap, we utilized the Li6PS5Cl solid electrolyte as a reference and investigated the effects of stacking pressures on the performance of SEs and ASSLMBs. We also developed models to explain the underlying origin of these effects and predict battery performance, such as ionic conductivity and critical current density. Our results demonstrated that an appropriate stacking pressure is necessary to achieve optimal performance, and each step of applying pressure requires a specific pressure value. These findings can help explain discrepancies in the literature and provide guidance to establish standardized testing conditions and reporting benchmarks for ASSLMBs. Overall, this study contributes to the understanding of the impact of stacking pressure on the performance of ASSLMBs and highlights the importance of careful pressure optimization for optimal battery performance.
An investigation of the morphological, thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties of an active packaging containing micro‐ and nano‐sized ZnO particles
Authors: Syarifa Raihan , Esmaeili Yasaman , Jafarzadeh Shima , Garavand Farhad , Mahmud Shahrom , Ariffin Fazilah
Published: September 2023

Biodegradable films are extremely important for food packaging applications since they minimize environmental effects. However, their application areas are limited due to insufficient characteristics required for particular applications. The objective of the present research was to improve the properties of sago‐based biodegradable films embedded with nano‐ and micro‐ZnO (zinc oxide). Nano and micro‐ZnO were incorporated in the films at different percentages (1%, 3%, and 5%) in that the films were formed using the solvent casting method. The physicochemical, barrier, thermal, optical, morphology, and mechanical properties of sago‐based films were investigated. Adding 5% of micro‐ and nano‐ZnO significantly improved film thickness (0.162 and 0.150 mm, respectively) and WVP (4.40 and 5.64 (kg/s)/(m.Pa), respectively) while the optical properties and thermal stability exhibited superior performance. Micro‐ZnO particles improved the mechanical properties of sago‐based biodegradable films with the tensile strength reaching 6.173 MPa. Moreover, sago‐based nano‐ZnO films showed excellent UV‐shielding performance and relatively good visible‐light transmittance. This study suggested that sago biodegradable film incorporated with micro‐ZnO could be an excellent alternative to petroleum‐based plastic packaging.
‘I can see what's going on without being nosey…’: What matters to people living with dementia about home as revealed through visual home tours
Authors: Campbell Sarah , Clark Andrew , Keady John , Manji Kainde , Odzakovic Elzana , Rummery Kirstein , Ward Richard
Published: September 2023

Objectives

This paper considers home from the perspective of people living with dementia supporting ongoing discourse around ageing in place and the significance of creating more inclusive communities.

Methods

Forty‐six home tour interviews led by people living with dementia were conducted in England and Scotland to better understand the connectivity between home and neighbourhood for people living with dementia. These interviews used a range of participatory and creative approaches including video, photographic images and in situ interviews. Data were analysed via reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes were identified in data analysis. 1. Connected home and neighbourhood, where participants revealed the dynamic relationship between home and neighbourhood; 2. Practices of home, where participants discussed the everyday nature of their homes and routines; and 3. Displaying home and family, which reflected participant's biographical homes in the context of living with dementia.

Discussion

The findings show that home holds multiple meanings for people living with dementia. For example, home is understood as a part of the neighbourhood and an extension of the home space into gardens and backyards, thus extending existing discourses that solely focus on the inside of people's homes. For people living with dementia, homes are also sites of negotiation and renegotiation where new meanings are created to reflect the changing nature and context of the home. There is not one fixed solution to these issues. Support and understanding for people living with dementia will need to evolve to adapt to the shifting dynamics and multiple meanings of home.
Impact of comorbidities on outcomes in patients with advanced head and neck cancer undergoing immunotherapy
Authors: Guller Meytal , Cooper Dylan J. , Alkhatib Hosam , Suru Aditya , Blancaflor Angelo , Maroun Christopher A. , Tham Tristan , Allen Hailey , Mazzara Eden , Thomas Jerin , Amin Neha , Wu Evan , Eisele David W. , Fakhry Carole , Pardoll Drew , Seiwert Tanguy Y. , Zhu Gangcai , Mandal Rajarsi
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To explore the impact of pre‐existing comorbidities on immunotherapy response, overall and progression‐free survival, and immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) of patients with advanced head and neck cancer (HNC) treated with immunotherapy.

Patients and methods

Ninety‐three patients treated with immunotherapy were identified and stratified into comorbidity absent or present (CCI < 1 and CCI ≥ 1, respectively) cohorts, and clinical outcomes were compared between these two groups.

Results

Patients with no comorbidities had longer overall survival (aHR = 2.74, 95% CI [1.18, 6.40], p = 0.02) and progression‐free survival (aHR = 2.07, 95% CI [1.03, 4.16], p = 0.04) and a higher tumor response rate (32% in CCI < 1 vs. 14% in CC ≥ 1, p = 0.05). Risk for irAEs was higher in the comorbidity absent group (p = 0.05).

Conclusion

Comorbidity should be considered as a significant prognostic factor in clinical decision‐making for patients with advanced HNC undergoing immunotherapy.
Enacting people analytics: Exploring the direct and complementary effects of analytical and storytelling skills
Authors: McCartney Steven , Fu Na
Published: September 2023

Although research identifies analytical and storytelling skills as the two broad human capital inputs required to perform people analytics, further research is required to better understand how People Analysts that is, the enactors of people analytics, perceive the impact of these skills on their performance. Accordingly, this study draws on the human capital resource (HCR) and HCR complementarity frameworks to investigate the individual and collective impact of analytical and storytelling skills on People Analysts perceived job performance. A mixed‐method sequential explanatory research design is adopted, finding mixed results. Consistent with existing research, results from Phase 1 find People Analysts perceive storytelling skills to be positively associated with their job performance. However, contrary to existing claims, the findings reveal that analytical skills are only perceived to be significant in influencing People Analysts job performance when combined with storytelling skills, supporting a complementarity HCR relationship. To further explain the findings from Phase 1, Phase 2 involved collecting data from 50 people analytics professionals via semi‐structured interviews. Results from the thematic analysis reinforce the survey findings while also illustrating that People Analysts perceive the complementarity relationship between analytical and storytelling skills as important for improving job performance. Accordingly, we argue that debate in this area should be reframed to acknowledge the necessity of complementarities in building people analytics capabilities.
Differences in serum cytokine levels distinguish between clinically non‐invasive lung adenocarcinoma and invasive lung adenocarcinoma: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zeng Bingjie , Wang Xianzhao , Qin Yueyang , Cao Leiqun , Zhang Congcong , Meng Fanyu , Chen Changqiang , Wang Jiayi , Ma Lifang
Published: September 2023

Background

Lung cancer incidence and mortality remain high and are now the leading cause of cancer‐related death. Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is one of the main histological subtypes of lung cancer. Previous studies have shown the role of inflammation in the development of lung cancer, but the relationship between cytokines and LUAD is still unclear. To further differentiate and explore the association of cytokines with the risk of non‐invasive and invasive LUAD, we studied and assessed serum cytokine levels in patients with two types of LUAD.

Methods

A cohort study of 90 non‐invasive LUAD and 90 invasive LUAD was retrospectively included, and the clinical characteristics were recorded in detail. The differences in the levels of 12 serum cytokines (IFN‐α, IFN‐γ, IL‐10, IL‐12P70, IL‐17A, IL‐1β, IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐6, IL‐8, and TNF‐α) between the two groups of patients with LUAD were analyzed and evaluated. And we evaluated the clinical value of cytokine differential diagnosis of invasive LUAD based on receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 56.6 years, and the proportions of males and females were 38.9% and 61.1%, respectively. IFN‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐2, IL‐6, TNF‐α, IL‐4, and IL‐8 were significantly increased in patients with invasive LUAD compared with the non‐invasive LUAD group. Further research found that smoking is an important factor, with changes in the four cytokines IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, and TNF‐α being significantly higher in the smoking group of patients with invasive LUAD. It can be seen from the area under the curve that IL‐1β and IL‐2 have a significant differential diagnosis.

Conclusions

We observed differences in preoperative serum cytokine levels between patients with invasive and non‐invasive LUAD, which may serve as potential serum biomarkers for clinical differential diagnosis and disease progression assessment.
Gynaecologic and breast cancers in women living with HIV in South Africa: A record linkage study
Authors: Dhokotera Tafadzwa G. , Muchengeti Mazvita , Davidović Maša , Rohner Eliane , Olago Victor , Egger Matthias , Bohlius Julia
Published: September 2023

Breast and gynaecologic cancers account for approximately half of all cancers diagnosed amongst women in South Africa, many of whom also live with HIV. We aimed to determine the incidence of and risk factors for developing breast and gynaecologic cancers in women living with HIV (WLHIV) in South Africa. This is a longitudinal analysis of the South African HIV Cancer Match study including women aged ≥15 years with two or more HIV‐related laboratory tests. We used Cox proportional hazard models to determine the association of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)‐related and hormone‐related gynaecologic cancer with patient‐ and municipal‐level characteristics. From 3 447 908 women and 10.5 million years of follow‐up, we identified 11 384 incident and 7612 prevalent gynaecologic and breast cancers. The overall crude incidence rate was 108/1 00 000 person‐years (pyears) (95% confidence interval [CI]: 106‐110), with the highest incidence observed for cervical cancer (70/1 00 000 pyears; 95% CI: 68.5‐71.7). Low CD4 cell counts and high HIV RNA viral loads increased the risk of cervical and other HPV‐related cancers. Age was associated with both HPV‐related and hormone‐related cancers. Women accessing health facilities in high socioeconomic position (SEP) municipalities were more likely to be diagnosed with HPV‐related cancers and breast cancer than women accessing care in low SEP municipalities. It is important to improve the immunologic status of WLHIV as part of cancer prevention strategies in WLHIV. Cancer prevention and early detection programmes should be tailored to the needs of women ageing with HIV. In addition, SEP disparities in cancer diagnostic services have to be addressed.
Farm sustainability: a veterinary perspective
Authors: Black David , Hayton Rachel , Moffett Alasdair , Hopkins Rhys
Published: September 2023

Background: Our planet is facing a catastrophic environmental crisis caused by climate change (with greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture accounting for around 10 per cent of the UK's total emissions), biodiversity collapse, species extinctions, food inequality and resource scarcity.

Aim of the article: Farming is coming ever more under the spotlight for its environmental credentials and this article aims to explore the contribution of vets to the challenges ahead.
Real‐time visualization of skeletal muscle necrosis in mice and swine through NIR‐II/I fluorescence imaging
Authors: Yu Yifeng , Wang Zheng , Gao Siqi , Wu Yifan , Yu Aixi , Wu Fei
Published: September 2023

Avulsion often occurs in the limb due to heavy shearing forces which not only damage skeletal muscle but also main vessels, resulting in life‐threatening muscle ischemia and necrosis. Defining muscle activity is vital for surgical repair. Currently, the color, capacity of blood, contractibility, and consistency (4C) are the primary principles for evaluating the activities of torn muscles. Based on clinical experiences, this standard turns out to be delayed diagnosis, which is not defined by specific parameters. Recently, near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescence probes emitting within the second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II, 1000–1700 nm) have been widely used for non‐invasive optical imaging because the tissue absorption and autofluorescence in the NIR‐II region are negligible, thus allowing deeper penetration depths with micrometer‐scale spatial resolution in vivo. As pathogenesis and development of muscle necrosis, necrosis‐related protein may participate in this procedure. There is promising future for NIR‐II to be used in evaluating muscle activity in avulsion. A new approach is developed based on experiments with mice and large animals (swine). Myoblasts were incubated with indocyanine green (ICG) to identify the necrosis muscles. The model of extremity damaged muscle was established for the real‐time visualization and detection of developed necrosis muscle field under new equipment, both in balb/c mice (female) and long‐haired swines. A visible NIR‐II/I imaging system was first used in a large animal injured skeletal muscle‐related model. Our NIR‐II/I imaging system is suitable for evaluating the normal and injured skeletal muscle ICG cycle and pointing to the necrotic skeletal muscle tissue. NIR‐II imaging is superior to NIR‐I imaging in estimating skeletal muscle, best with 1100 nm filter. NIR‐II fluorescence with 1100 nm filter is suitable for analyzing the progress of necrosis muscle tissue, leading to a new approach for intraoperative evaluation.
Multiphoton imaging of the monosachharide induced formation of fluorescent advanced glycation end products in tissues
Authors: Lin Chih‐Ju , Mondal Sohidul , Lee Sheng‐Lin , Kang Jeon‐Woong , So Peter T. C. , Dong Chen Yuan
Published: September 2023

We studied the in vitro rate of fluorescent advanced glycation end products (fAGEs) formation with multiphoton microscopy in different porcine tissues (aorta, cornea, kidney, dermis, and tendon). These tissues were treated with d‐glucose, d‐galactose, and d‐fructose, three primary monosaccharides found in human diets. We found that the use of d‐fructose resulted in the highest glycation rate, followed by d‐galactose and then d‐glucose. Moreover, compared to non‐collagen tissue constituents such as elastic fibers and cells, the rate of tissue glycation was consistently higher in collagen, suggesting that collagen is a more sensitive target for fAGE formation. However, we also found that collagen in different tissues exhibits different rates of fAGE formation, with slower rates observed in tightly packed tissues such as cornea and tendon. Our study suggests that for fAGE to be developed into a long‐term glycemic biomarker, loosely organized collagen tissues located in the proximity of vasculature may be the best targets.
Novel protein products encoded by upstream open reading frames of the MYCN gene in pediatric embryonal tumors
Authors: Jang Chorong , Blume Scott W. , Choi Hyoung Soo
Published: September 2023

The MYCC and MYCN loci are each associated with two upstream open reading frames (uORFs) potentially encoding small proteins (9–21 kDa). We previously demonstrated that uORFs mrtl and MYCHEX1 of MYCC are translated, and their protein products may function to regulate the expression of the “parent” oncogene. We hypothesized that a similar relationship might exist between MYCN and its two uORFs: MYCNOT and MNOP, and investigated the uORF‐encoded proteins associated with MYCN to confirm their expression and intracellular location in neuroblastoma and medulloblastoma cells and tissues. MNOP, MYCNOT, mrtl, and MYCHEX1 were readily detected via reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis in tumor cell lines. In tumor tissue, MNOP protein expression was confirmed; however, MCYNOT generated from alternative splicing MYCNΔ1b mRNA was not detected. Immunofluorescence staining of MYCNOT displayed multiple bright foci in the nucleus and diffuse staining in the cytoplasm, suggesting that this small protein may function in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Upon JQ1 treatment, MYCN, MYCNOT, and mrtl decreased substantially or disappeared completely in three different tumor cell lines. Significant levels of apoptosis were observed in each pediatric embryonal tumor cell line but not T47D breast carcinoma cells, suggesting that response to JQ1 transcriptional inhibition is greatest in tumor cells, which depend on MYC to maintain an undifferentiated phenotype. In conclusion, both MYCN uORF‐encoded proteins MNOP and MYCNOT, together with the two MYCC uORF‐encoded proteins mrtl and MYCHEX1 were detected simultaneously in tumor cell lines and tumor tissues. These four distinct proteins are translated from the “5′‐untranslated region” of MYCN or MYCC mRNA and display consistent distribution patterns within the cell. Additional studies to further elucidate the physiological and pathological roles of these uORF‐encoded proteins are warranted, as insights gained could inform new strategies for modulating MYC‐family oncogenes by targeting their uORFs.
Primary cilium‐mediated signaling cascade suppresses age‐related biliary fibrosis
Authors: Hong Renjie , Tian Xiaoyu , Ma Hongbo , Ni Hua , Yang Jia , Bu Weiwen , Li Te , Yang Song , Li Dengwen , Liu Min , Tan Yanjie
Published: September 2023

The primary cilium is increasingly recognized as a crucial player in the physiology of biliary epithelial cells (BECs). However, the precise role of primary cilia in the development of age‐related biliary fibrosis remains unclear. Herein, using cilium‐deficient mice, we demonstrate that disruption of ciliary homeostasis in BECs in aged mice leads to significant bile duct proliferation, augmented biliary fibrosis, and heightened indicators of liver injury. Our RNA‐sequencing data revealed a dysregulation in genes associated with various biological processes such as bile secretion, fatty acid metabolism, and inflammation. Loss of primary cilia also significantly enhanced signaling pathways driving the development of biliary fibrosis. Our findings collectively suggest that loss of primary cilia in the BECs of aged mice initiates a cascade of signaling events that contribute to biliary fibrosis, highlighting the primary cilium as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of fibrosing cholangiopathies.
Challenges of reliable AFM‐tip shape reconstruction and approximation
Authors: Morozov Ilya A. , Izyumov Roman I.
Published: September 2023

Reliable reconstruction of AFM tip geometry is not an easy task. The shape of the tip can be (partially) reconstructed from the AFM image of a calibration sample using a blind reconstruction method. The result is a range of the tip shapes (from unrealistically sharp to blunt). A criterion for selecting the true shape is proposed. It is based on reconstruction of the calibration relief. Further refining the probe geometry by indenting an elastic polymer is discussed. The choice of the test sample is another problem. In practice, the researcher has a small number of commercially available test gratings. Their limitations are highlighted. An approximation of tip geometry by a body of revolution is required in indentation experiments. A hyperboloid was found to be the closest approximation to the conventional probes. The contact area was obtained for the hyperboloids with different parameters indenting an elastic material.

Research Highlights

Criteria for blind reconstruction algorithm of AFM tip shape.

Pros and cons of tip shape calibration samples.

Contact area of the elastic indentation by hyperbolic indenter.
Effect of organic carbon structures on the degradation of nonylphenol by hydrogen peroxide in sediment–water system
Authors: Zhang Yongli , Kong Xianglan , Yang Yu , Ran Yong
Published: September 2023

A laboratory experiment is conducted to investigate the effects of organic carbon (OC) from riverine and marine sediments on the degradation of ring‐14C‐labeled nonylphenol (14C‐NP) by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Researchers have isolated demineralized OC (DM) before and after oxidation, namely, DM and resistant OC (ROC) fractions, respectively. The structures of DM and ROC are characterized using solid‐state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance. Unstable structures (O‐alkyl, OCH3/NCH, and COO/NC=O) show a significant and positive correlation with the degradation of 14C‐NP (R2 > 0.73, p < 0.05), thus suggesting that the NP absorbed in the unstable structures is easily degraded because of the decomposition of unstable components. The stable structures (alkyl C and non‐protonated aromatic C [Arom C─C]) exhibit a significant and negative correlation with the degradation of 14C‐NP (R2 > 0.69, p < 0.05), thus suggesting that the NP absorbed and protected in these resistant structures is minimally degraded. The significant correlations among the degradation kinetic parameters (Frap and Fslow), OC structures (Falip and Farom), and microporosity further illustrate the important protective roles of OC structures and micropores in the degradation of 14C‐NP by H2O2 (R2 > 0.69, p < 0.05). The parent NP fraction that desorbed into the aqueous solution or extracted is completely degraded, indicating preferential degradation of the easily desorbed NP. This study provides important insights into the NP degradation mechanism in sediment–water systems, particularly regarding sediment OC structures and microporosity.
Comparison of the novel Franseen needle versus the fine‐needle aspiration needle in endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition for cancer gene panel testing: A propensity score‐matching analysis
Authors: Mori Tomotaka , Ozawa Eisuke , Shimakura Akane , Takahashi Kosuke , Matsuo Satoshi , Tajima Kazuaki , Nakao Yasuhiko , Fukushima Masanori , Sasaki Ryu , Miuma Satoshi , Miyaaki Hisamitsu , Okano Shinji , Nakao Kazuhiko
Published: September 2023

Background and Aim

Reports have indicated that a surface area of 4 mm2 or more of collected tissue sections could provide the recommended total DNA for the OncoGuide NCC Oncopanel system, which is a cancer gene panel test developed in Japan. We wished to compare the percentage of tissue sections collected by endoscopic ultrasound‐assisted tissue acquisition (EUS‐TA) with surface areas of ≥4 mm2 between a conventional needle, namely the EZ Shot 3 Plus (Olympus Medical Japan, Tokyo, Japan) (EZ3), and the recent SonoTip TopGain (MediGlobe, Rohrdorf, Germany) (TopGain).

Method

From April 2010 to December 2021, among 693 EUS‐TA cases, EZ3 was used in 390 cases and TopGain in 45. The EZ3 and TopGain groups were matched in a 1:1 ratio with a tolerance of 0.2, with 35 patients each matched using propensity score analysis.

Results

The TopGain group had a significantly higher percentage of cases with a tissue area of ≥4 mm2 than the EZ3 group (42.9% vs 68.6%, P = 0.030). Multivariate analysis revealed an association between TopGain and tissue areas of ≥4 mm2 (odds ratio 2.996, 95% confidence interval 1.068–8.403, P = 0.037).

Conclusions

EUS‐TA using TopGain significantly collected more ≥4 mm2 tissue area compared with EZ3, suggesting its usefulness for cancer gene panel testing.
The severity and yield effects of the chocolate spot disease in faba bean affected by intercropping and nitrogen input
Authors: Luo Chaosheng , Xiao Jingxiu , Guo Zengpeng , Dong Yan
Published: September 2023

Background

The aim is to study the disease suppression efficiency, yield loss rate, and yield benefits of intercropped faba bean against chocolate spot under nitrogen (N) input, to clarify the effectiveness of intercropping faba beans in controlling chocolate spot and its contribution to yield increase.

Results

Four N input levels and disease suppression treatments were discovered when faba bean–wheat intercropped was used. Adding N enhanced the chocolate spot's area under disease progression curve (AUDPC) by 27.1–69.9%. In contrast to monoculture, intercropping reduced the AUDPC of the chocolate spot by 32.4–51.0% (P < 0.05). Interestingly, the relative control efficacy (RCE) of intercropping at the EShan site was better. With disease suppression or non‐suppression, N input increased grain yield loss and its components in faba bean. The total yield advantage effect (TE) and disease‐suppression effect (DSE) of faba bean intercropped at the two experimental sites were significantly increased under N input (N1 and N2 level). The proportion of recovery yield due to intercropping suppressed disease (DSE/TE ratio) in EShan (52.1%) was higher than that in Xundian (40.9%), and the DSE of intercropping played an indispensable role in the two sites. Regression analysis of AUDPC and grain yield loss amount showed that one unit increase in chocolate spot AUDPC could cause a grain yield loss of 0.38–0.86 kg ha−1. The partial land equivalent ratio (pLER) of intercropping faba beans at the EShan site was > 0.33.

Conclusion

In conclusion, intercropped faba bean with N treatment (45–90 kg ha−1) was the best choice for maximizing the intercropping disease control effect. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
The Use of a Dehydrated Cellularized Collagen Matrix to Replace Fibrotic Vocal Fold Mucosa
Authors: Hamilton Nick J. I. , Tait Angela , Weil Ben , Daniels Julie
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Fibrosis of the vocal fold lamina propria reduces vocal cord vibration resulting in a chronically hoarse voice. We describe a novel approach using umbilical cord‐derived mesenchymal stem cells in a dehydrated collagen matrix (cellogen) to reconstruct the delicate balance of extracellular matrix within the vocal fold lamina propria whilst limiting the host inflammatory response to the implant.

Methods

Human umbilical cord‐derived mesenchymal stem‐cells were embedded in bovine type I collagen hydrogel and dehydrated using the RAFT™ 3D culture system. The extracellular matrix, cellular viability and composition, paracrine profile, and genomic profile were assessed and the scaffold engrafted onto the hind muscle of NUDE mice.

Results

The cells retained stem‐cell markers following fabrication and secreted collagen III, fibronectin, and glycosaminoglycans within the scaffold. Electron microscopy showed the scaffold consisted of single strands of protein with interspersed bundles of a similar size to native vocal fold lamina propria. The use of the dehydration step improved cell viability and upregulated the expression of genes important in wound healing and matrix organization compared with unmodified collagen hydrogel carriers. The cells were shown to secrete exosomes and cytokines and, following engraftment within an immunocompromised mouse model, appeared to modulate the host inflammatory response compared with controls.

Conclusion

This article provides a scalable cell‐protein scaffold that with further modifications could provide a replacement for lost or damaged vocal fold mucosa. Further investigations are required to assess the mechanical properties of the scaffold and inhibit the differentiation of the umbilical cord‐derived stem‐cells following implantation. Laryngoscope, 134:882–893, 2024
MicroLEDs and QD‐LEDs and QD‐OLEDs, Oh My!
Authors: Steckel Jonathan
Published: September 2023

The display industry keeps innovating with evermore technologies competing in this exciting market.
Developments in LCD, Flexible Displays, and 8K
Authors: Raikes Bob
Published: September 2023

Opportunities abound for new technologies.
Public health nurse reflections on implementing the New Families home visiting programme: A qualitative study
Authors: Holmberg Fagerlund Bettina , Glavin Kari
Published: September 2023

Aim

To investigate reflections of public health nurses (PHNs) on implementing the New Families programme, a supplement to the usual Norwegian child health centre programme. It involves user‐led decisions on the content and number of home visits offered by the family's PHN from pregnancy week 28 until the child is 2 years.

Design

An interpretive description approach.

Methods

Altogether 206 anonymized, undated reflection notes by PHNs becoming familiar with the programme were collected in 2017–2020. NVivo 12 and inductive content analysis were used to convert the data into manageable segments.

Results

Focusing on childhood experiences and parental role expectations among prospective parents during home visits was seen as a major shift in the nurses' counselling strategy. Providing relevant information to the parents‐to‐be ahead of a meeting was important. Given sufficient staff and guidance, the programme was considered a good basis for building a relationship with the family.
Association of Virtual Away Rotations With Residency Applicant Outcomes in Otolaryngology
Authors: Lenze Nicholas R. , Benjamin William J. , Bohm Lauren A. , Thorne Marc C. , Brenner Michael J. , Mihalic Angela P. , Kupfer Robbi A.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To examine how virtual away rotations might influence interview and match outcomes in otolaryngology.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional retrospective analysis of survey‐based study.

Setting

United States medical students applying to otolaryngology residency in the 2020 to 2021 cycle.

Methods

The Texas Seeking Transparency in Application to Residency database was queried to identify otolaryngology applicants during the 2020 to 2021 cycle. The primary outcome was mean number of interview offers. χ2 tests, 2‐sided t tests, logistic regression models, and ordinary least squares regression models were used to examine associations with virtual away rotations.

Results

Among 115 otolaryngology applicants identified, 35 (30.4%) applicants reported completing 1 or more virtual away rotations. Applicants who completed at least 1 virtual away rotation received significantly more interview offers than their counterparts who did not participate in virtual away rotations (mean [SD], 14.9 [8.2] vs 11.6 [7.9]; P < .03). Each virtual away rotation completed was associated with an incremental increase of 2 additional interview offers (β coefficient: 2.29 [95% confidence interval, CI: 0.8‐3.7; P < .01]). Applicants who completed a virtual away rotation were more likely to receive an interview from that program (62.7% vs 16.8%, P < .01) and to match there (odds ratio 7.7 [95% CI: 2.7‐21.7]; P < .01) when compared to applicants who had not done the away rotation. Participation in virtual away rotations was not associated with significant improvement in match success (82.9% vs 67.5%; P = .09).

Conclusion

Virtual away rotations were associated with improved program‐specific interview and match outcomes, as well as a higher overall number of interview offers.
Operationalizing a Free Flap Program for Head and Neck Reconstruction at a Veterans Affairs Hospital
Authors: Hernandez David J. , Xu William , Lim Yuli , Dong Jen L. , Huang Andrew T. , Chiu Louisa , Awad Samir , Joseph Linda , Sandulache Vlad C.
Published: September 2023

Objectives

We aimed to operationalize a head and neck microvascular free tissue transfer (MVFTT) program at a Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital with the emphasis on initiating radiotherapy within 6 weeks of surgery for cancer patients and minimizing readmissions.

Study Design

Case series.

Setting

Tertiary care VA hospital.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on consecutive head and neck MVFTT patients from May 1, 2017 and April 30, 2022. Demographics, patient and disease characteristics, per‐operative data and postoperative outcomes were recorded from the electronic medical record. We sought to compare our rate of 30‐day readmissions with those published in the literature.

Results

One hundred and forty‐one procedures were performed in the queried timeframe. Eighty‐four percent (119) were performed after oncologic resections and 16% (22) were for nononcologic procedures. The rate of total flap loss was <1% and the rate of partial flap loss was 3.5%. For mucosal defects, the fistula rate was 2.3%. The rate of return to the OR for any reason within 30 days was 7.8%. The 30‐day readmission rate was 6.4% while the rates reported in the literature range from 13% to 20%. One hundred and four patients required postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) and 76% started PORT within 42 days of surgery.

Conclusion

Operationalizing a head and neck MVFTT program with a VA hospital is safe and allows for the successful delivery of multimodality treatment to cancer patients. These resources can be expanded for the care of head and neck cancer treatment sequelae, such as osteoradionecrosis, and other nononcologic patient needs.
Consensus molecular subtype transition during progression of colorectal cancer
Authors: van de Weerd Simone , Torang Arezo , Zwager Liselotte W , Koelink Pim J , Koster Jan , Bastiaansen Barbara AJ , Lammers Veerle , Longobardi Ciro , Roodhart Jeanine ML , van Krieken J Han , Farina Sarasqueta Arantza , Dekker Evelien , Medema Jan Paul
Published: September 2023

The consensus molecular subtype (CMS) classification divides colorectal cancer (CRC) into four distinct subtypes based on RNA expression profiles. The biological differences between CMSs are already present in CRC precursor lesions, but not all CMSs pose the same risk of malignant transformation. To fully understand the path to malignant transformation and to determine whether CMS is a fixed entity during progression, genomic and transcriptomic data from two regions of the same CRC lesion were compared: the precursor region and the carcinoma region. In total, 24 patients who underwent endoscopic removal of T1–2 CRC were included. Regions were subtyped for CMS and DNA mutation analysis was performed. Additionally, a set of 85 benign adenomas was CMS‐subtyped. This analysis revealed that almost all benign adenomas were classified as CMS3 (91.8%). In contrast, CMS2 was the most prevalent subtype in precursor regions (66.7%), followed by CMS3 (29.2%). CMS4 was absent in precursor lesions and originated at the carcinoma stage. Importantly, CMS switching occurred in a substantial number of cases and almost all (six out of seven) CMS3 precursor regions showed a shift to a different subtype in the carcinoma part of the lesion, which in four cases was classified as CMS4. In conclusion, our data indicate that CMS3 is related to a more indolent type of precursor lesion that less likely progresses to CRC and when this occurs, it is often associated with a subtype change that includes the more aggressive mesenchymal CMS4. In contrast, an acquired CMS2 signature appeared to be rather fixed during early CRC development. Combined, our data show that subtype changes occur during progression and that CMS3 switching is related to changes in the genomic background through acquisition of a novel driver mutation (TP53) or selective expansion of a clone, but also occurred independently of such genetic changes. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.