bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D suppresses bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis by targeting the local renin–angiotensin system in the lung
Authors: Chang Jianjun , Nie Hongguang , Ge Xin , Du Jie , Liu Weicheng , Li Xue , Sun Yue , Wei Xinzhi , Xun Zhe , Li Yan Chun
Published: August 2021

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a severe disorder leading to progressive and irreversible loss of pulmonary function. In this study we investigated the anti-fibrotic effect of vitamin D using a mouse model of IPF. Lung fibrosis was induced with bleomycin in vitamin D-sufficient and vitamin D-deficient C57BL/6 mice. We found that treatment with active vitamin D analog paricalcitol prevented mouse body weight loss and alleviated lung fibrosis, whereas vitamin D deficiency severely aggravated lung injury. At the molecular level, paricalcitol treatment suppressed the induction of fibrotic inducer TGF-β and extracellular matrix proteins α-SMA, collagen type I and fibronectin in the lung, whereas vitamin D deficiency exacerbated the induction of these proteins. Interestingly, bleomycin treatment activated the local renin–angiotensin system (RAS) in the lung, manifested by the induction of renin, angiotensinogen, angiotensin II and angiotensin receptor type 1 (AT1R). Paricalcitol treatment suppressed the induction of these RAS components, whereas vitamin D deficiency enhanced the activation of the lung RAS. We also showed that treatment of bleomycin-induced vitamin D-deficient mice with AT1R antagonist losartan relieved weight loss, substantially ameliorated lung fibrosis and markedly blocked TGF-β induction in the lung. Moreover, we demonstrated that in lung fibroblast cultures, TGF-β and angiotensin II synergistically induced TGF-β, AT1R, α-SMA, collagen type I and fibronectin, whereas 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D markedly suppressed the induction of these fibrotic markers. Collectively, these observations strongly suggest that vitamin D mitigates lung fibrosis by blocking the activation of the lung RAS in this mouse model of IPF.
Curvature-dependent shear bond strength of different attachment materials for orthodontic lingual indirect bonding
Authors: Jungbauer Rebecca , Al-Burghol Paul , Rosentritt Martin , Kirschneck Christian , Proff Peter , Paulsen Friedrich , Hammer Christian M.
Published: August 2021

To evaluate the shear bond strength (SBS) of different attachment materials used for lingual bonding, the influence of artificial aging and the radii of curvature of the enamel surface on SBS, 192 third molars were photographed to determine the radius of curvature of the oral surface. After phosphoric acid etching a cylindrical test piece was bonded to the oral enamel using a mold that was filled with a chemically curing (Maximum Cure, Transbond IDB Premix) or a dual-curing (Nexus NX3, RelyX Unicem2) attachment material. SBS was tested after 24 h, 500 thermal cycles or 90 days at 37 °C with a universal testing machine. Computed tomography scans were performed to determine the bonded surface and calculate SBS. Values ranged from 8.3 to 20.9 MPa. RelyX Unicem2 showed the highest SBS values at baseline, 500 thermal cycles and after 90 days (p < 0.001). Ninety days of wet storage significantly reduced SBS of Maximum Cure (p = 0.028). The radius of curvature correlated positively with SBS (rs = 0.204, p = 0.005). The SBS of all attachment materials was sufficient for clinical use, even after artificial aging. RelyX Unicem2 showed almost twice as high SBS values as the other attachment materials.
A novel approach of fabricating monodispersed spherical MoSiBTiC particles for additive manufacturing
Authors: Zhou Zhenxing , Guo Suxia , Zhou Weiwei , Nomura Naoyuki
Published: August 2021

It is very challenging to fabricate spherical refractory material powders for additive manufacturing (AM) because of their high melting points and complex compositions. In this study, a novel technique, freeze-dry pulsated orifice ejection method (FD-POEM), was developed to fabricate spherical MoSiBTiC particles without a melting process. Elemental nanopowders were dispersed in water to prepare a high-concentration slurry, which was subsequently extruded from an orifice by diaphragm vibration and frozen instantly in liquid nitrogen. After a freeze-drying process, spherical composite particles with arbitrary composition ratios were obtained. The FD-POEM particles had a narrow size range and uniform elemental distribution. Mesh structures were formed within the FD-POEM particles, which was attributed to the sublimation of ice crystals. Furthermore, owing to their spherical morphology, the FD-POEM particles had a low avalanche angle of 42.6°, exhibiting good flowability. Consequently, the combination of FD-POEM and additive manufacturing has great potential for developing complex refractory components used in industrial applications.
The brain and its time: intrinsic neural timescales are key for input processing
Authors: Golesorkhi Mehrshad , Gomez-Pilar Javier , Zilio Federico , Berberian Nareg , Wolff Annemarie , Yagoub Mustapha C. E. , Northoff Georg
Published: August 2021

We process and integrate multiple timescales into one meaningful whole. Recent evidence suggests that the brain displays a complex multiscale temporal organization. Different regions exhibit different timescales as described by the concept of intrinsic neural timescales (INT); however, their function and neural mechanisms remains unclear. We review recent literature on INT and propose that they are key for input processing. Specifically, they are shared across different species, i.e., input sharing. This suggests a role of INT in encoding inputs through matching the inputs’ stochastics with the ongoing temporal statistics of the brain’s neural activity, i.e., input encoding. Following simulation and empirical data, we point out input integration versus segregation and input sampling as key temporal mechanisms of input processing. This deeply grounds the brain within its environmental and evolutionary context. It carries major implications in understanding mental features and psychiatric disorders, as well as going beyond the brain in integrating timescales into artificial intelligence.
Early alterations of large-scale brain networks temporal dynamics in young children with autism
Authors: Bochet Aurélie , Sperdin Holger Franz , Rihs Tonia Anahi , Kojovic Nada , Franchini Martina , Jan Reem Kais , Michel Christoph Martin , Schaer Marie
Published: August 2021

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are associated with disruption of large-scale brain network. Recently, we found that directed functional connectivity alterations of social brain networks are a core component of atypical brain development at early developmental stages in ASD. Here, we investigated the spatio-temporal dynamics of whole-brain neuronal networks at a subsecond scale in 113 toddlers and preschoolers (66 with ASD) using an EEG microstate approach. We first determined the predominant microstates using established clustering methods. We identified five predominant microstate (labeled as microstate classes A–E) with significant differences in the temporal dynamics of microstate class B between the groups in terms of increased appearance and prolonged duration. Using Markov chains, we found differences in the dynamic syntax between several maps in toddlers and preschoolers with ASD compared to their TD peers. Finally, exploratory analysis of brain–behavioral relationships within the ASD group suggested that the temporal dynamics of some maps were related to conditions comorbid to ASD during early developmental stages.
Mitochondrial Lon protease is a gatekeeper for proteins newly imported into the matrix
Authors: Matsushima Yuichi , Takahashi Kazuya , Yue Song , Fujiyoshi Yuki , Yoshioka Hideaki , Aihara Masamune , Setoyama Daiki , Uchiumi Takeshi , Fukuchi Satoshi , Kang Dongchon
Published: August 2021

Human ATP-dependent Lon protease (LONP1) forms homohexameric, ring-shaped complexes. Depletion of LONP1 causes aggregation of a broad range of proteins in the mitochondrial matrix and decreases the levels of their soluble forms. The ATP hydrolysis activity, but not protease activity, of LONP1 is critical for its chaperone-like anti-aggregation activity. LONP1 forms a complex with the import machinery and an incoming protein, and protein aggregation is linked with matrix protein import. LONP1 also contributes to the degradation of imported, aberrant, unprocessed proteins using its protease activity. Taken together, our results show that LONP1 functions as a gatekeeper for specific proteins imported into the mitochondrial matrix.
Mammalian body size is determined by interactions between climate, urbanization, and ecological traits
Authors: Hantak Maggie M. , McLean Bryan S. , Li Daijiang , Guralnick Robert P.
Published: August 2021

Anthropogenically-driven climate warming is a hypothesized driver of animal body size reductions. Less understood are effects of other human-caused disturbances on body size, such as urbanization. We compiled 140,499 body size records of over 100 North American mammals to test how climate and human population density, a proxy for urbanization, and their interactions with species traits, impact body size. We tested three hypotheses of body size variation across urbanization gradients: urban heat island effects, habitat fragmentation, and resource availability. Our results demonstrate that both urbanization and temperature influence mammalian body size variation, most often leading to larger individuals, thus supporting the resource availability hypothesis. In addition, life history and other ecological factors play a critical role in mediating the effects of climate and urbanization on body size. Larger mammals and species that utilize thermal buffering are more sensitive to warmer temperatures, while flexibility in activity time appears to be advantageous in urbanized areas. This work highlights the value of using digitized, natural history data to track how human disturbance drives morphological variation.
Towards optimizing peptide-based inhibitors of protein–protein interactions: predictive saturation variation scanning (PreSaVS)
Authors: Hetherington Kristina , Dutt Som , Ibarra Amaurys A. , Cawood Emma E. , Hobor Fruzsina , Woolfson Derek N. , Edwards Thomas A. , Nelson Adam , Sessions Richard B. , Wilson Andrew J.
Published: August 2021

An experimentally validated approach for in silico modification of peptide based protein–protein interaction inhibitors is described.
MXene/WS2hybrids for visible-light-activated NO2sensing at room temperature
Authors: Xia Yi , He Sufang , Wang Junming , Zhou Liexing , Wang Jing , Komarneni Sridhar
Published: August 2021

Dynamic resistance curve (inset: Response curve to 10 ppb NO2) and schematic illustration for the mechanism of the charge generation and separation in the 2D/2D T3C2Tx/WS2heterojunction under visible-light illumination.
Molecular recognition and adsorptive separation of m-xylene by trianglimine crystals
Authors: Dey Avishek , Chand Santanu , Ghosh Munmun , Altamimy Monerah , Maity Bholanath , Bhatt Prashant M. , Bhat Imtiyaz Ahmad , Cavallo Luigi , Eddaoudi Mohammed , Khashab Niveen M.
Published: August 2021

An energy-efficient adsorptive molecular sieving strategy is reported using a crystalline trianglimine macrocycle to separate the elusive m-xylene isomer with over 91% purity.
Red fluorescent zwitterionic naphthalenediimides with di/mono-benzimidazolium and a negatively-charged oxygen substituent
Authors: Wang Chunqin , Han Songyan , Wang Tianbao , Zheng Xuesong , Zhou Linsen , Liu Yanhong , Zhang Cheng , Gao Ge
Published: August 2021

Zwitterionic NDIs with di/mono-benzimidazolium and a negatively-charged oxygen substituent are synthesized, which emit red fluorescence in polar solvents and specifically label different organelles in living cells, respectively.
Reverse construction of dominant/secondary facets in Bi24O31Br10 photocatalysts for boosting electronic transfer
Authors: Li Ling-Yun , Ma Yue-Guang , Li Qi , Li Yi-Lei , Hao Ying-Juan , Wang Xiao-Jing , Liu Rui-Hong , Li Fa-Tang
Published: August 2021

Preferential growth of secondary {117} facet into main facet in Bi24O31Br10 leads to higher separation efficiency although original main {213} facet has stronger molecular oxygen adsorption ability, showing the role of reverse facet construction.
Quality improvement mechanism of sputtered AlN films on sapphire substrates with high-miscut-angles along different directions
Authors: Yue Yang , Sun Maosong , Li Xu , Liu Ting , Lu Yong , Chen Jie , Peng Yi , Maraj Mudassar , Zhang Jicai , Sun Wenhong
Published: August 2021

We studied the annealing mechanism of the films with high-miscut-angles at low cost and high efficiency and revealed the essence of annealing to improve the film quality lies in the annihilation of grain boundaries during the recrystallization.
Evaluating the crystalline orbital hierarchy and high-pressure structure–property response of an extended-ligand platinum(ii) bis(1,2-dioximato) complex
Authors: Richardson Jonathan G. , Broadhurst Edward T. , Benjamin Helen , Morrison Carole A. , Moggach Stephen A. , Robertson Neil
Published: August 2021

Butyl substituents enhance solution processing, but undermine the short Pt⋯Pt contacts that enable metallisation under pressure.
Mechanical properties of nonstoichiometric cubic titanium carbide TiCy
Authors: Gusev Aleksandr I.
Published: August 2021

The elastic properties of nonstoichiometric disordered cubic titanium carbide are considered taking into account the carbon content y in TiCy.
Photoelectron spectroscopy of the protoporphyrin IX dianion
Authors: Gibbard Jemma A. , Clarke Connor J. , Verlet Jan R. R.
Published: August 2021

Photoelectron spectroscopy is used to investigate the electron loss dynamics of the protoporphyrin IX dianion.
Mass spectrometric and theoretical study on the formation of uranyl hydride from uranyl carboxylate
Authors: Xiong Zhixin , Chen Xiuting , Gong Yu
Published: August 2021

Uranyl hydrides in the form of HUO2Cl2−were preparedviaalkene and alkyne elimination from some RUO2Cl2−complexes that result from decarboxylation of the carboxylates in the gas phase.
MicroRNA-432 inhibits milk fat synthesis by targeting SCD and LPL in ovine mammary epithelial cells
Authors: Hao Zhiyun , Luo Yuzhu , Wang Jiqing , Hickford Jon G. H. , Zhou Huitong , Hu Jiang , Liu Xiu , Li Shaobin , Shen Jiyuan , Ke Na , Liang Weiwei , Huang Zhaochun
Published: August 2021

The miR-432 inhibits the proliferation of ovine mammary epithelial cells and milk fat synthesis by targeting SCD and LPL in sheep.
Advantages of a fast-scanning quadrupole for LA-ICP-MS analysis of fluid inclusions
Authors: Laurent Oscar , Guillong Marcel , Heinrich Christoph A. , Neubauer Kenneth , Stephan Chady
Published: August 2021

Fast-scanning quadrupoles more representatively record LA-ICP-MS transient fluid inclusion signals. This allows to (1) target smaller inclusions than before; (2) accurately record polyphase inclusion signals; (3) better characterise fluid chemistry.
Activity-based protein profiling reveals deubiquitinase and aldehyde dehydrogenase targets of a cyanopyrrolidine probe
Authors: Panyain Nattawadee , Godinat Aurélien , Thawani Aditya Raymond , Lachiondo-Ortega Sofía , Mason Katie , Elkhalifa Sarah , Smith Lisa M. , Harrigan Jeanine A. , Tate Edward W.
Published: August 2021

We report the characterization of a UCHL1 covalent inhibitor based on a thiazole cyanopyrrolidine scaffold and a closely-related activity-based probe (ABP) which was used to generate a quantitative profile for on- and off-targets in human cells.
Spontaneous DNA translocation through a van der Waals heterostructure nanopore for single-molecule detection
Authors: Liu Yang , Deng Ye , Yang Yanmei , Qu Yuanyuan , Zhang Chao , Li Yong-Qiang , Zhao Mingwen , Li Weifeng
Published: August 2021

Single-stranded DNA can spontaneously translocate through a nanopore in a BC3/C3N van der Waals heterostructure, which might be used for single-molecule detection and sequencing.
Preparation and performance of DOPO-nano-SiO2 modified polyacrylic acid-based flame retardant dust suppressant for coal
Authors: Lai Shuili , Chen Gong , Hu Wen , Liu Baojian , Yang Xin , Gao Kai
Published: August 2021

Based on the synergy of N, P and Si, a type of soft-film flame retardant dust suppressant for coal with both flame-retardant and dust-suppression functions was prepared, aiming to slow down spontaneous coal combustion and coal dust pollution.
Large-scale facile-synthesis and bistable emissions of one-dimensional organic–inorganic C4H14N2PbBr4 metal halide crystals with bipolaronic states
Authors: Peng Hui , Tian Ye , Wang Xinxin , Yao Shangfei , Huang Tao , Guo Yongchang , Shi Lijie , Zou Bingsuo
Published: August 2021

One-dimensional C4H14N2PbBr4 micro-crystals have been prepared by modified mechanochemical synthesis, which exhibit an unusual bistable emission.
Recent developments in synthesis of catechols by Dakin oxidation
Authors: Bora Porag , Bora Bondana , Bora Utpal
Published: August 2021

In recent years, Dakin oxidation has evolved primarily around the conversion of ortho- and para-hydroxy benzaldehydes and acetophenones to dihydric phenols, which are found in nature and complex organic materials.
Cyan color-emitting nitrogen-functionalized carbon nanodots (NFCNDs) from Indigofera tinctoria and their catalytic reduction of organic dyes and fluorescent ink applications
Authors: Vinoth Kumar Jothi , Kavitha Ganesan , Arulmozhi Rajaram , Arul Velusamy , Abirami Natarajan
Published: August 2021

The present study reports the synthesis of nitrogen-functionalized carbon nanodots (NFCNDs) by a low-cost hydrothermal method using the leaf extract of Indigofera tinctoria as a novel carbon precursor.
The molecular mechanism of P450-catalyzed amination of the pyrrolidine derivative of lidocaine: insights from multiscale simulations
Authors: Wang Conger , Wu Peng , Wang Zhanfeng , Wang Binju
Published: August 2021

Nitrogen heterocycles are key and prevalent motifs in drugs.
Exploring the feasibility of liquid fuel synthesis from CO2 under cold plasma discharge: role of plasma discharge in binary metal oxide surface modification
Authors: Joshi Nitesh , Sivachandiran L.
Published: August 2021

Mechanistic understanding of CO2 conversion to CH3OH over binary mixed metal oxides of NiO–Fe2O3.
Dynamic porous organic polymers with tuneable crosslinking degree and porosity
Authors: Wessely Isabelle D. , Matt Yannick , An Qi , Bräse Stefan , Tsotsalas Manuel
Published: August 2021

We synthesised three different POPs via a nitroxide exchange reaction and modulated their crosslinking degree. That allowed us to investigate the influence of the crosslinking degree and the structure of the molecular components on the porosity.
Visible-light synthesis of 4-substituted-chroman-2-ones and 2-substituted-chroman-4-ones via doubly decarboxylative Giese reaction
Authors: Moczulski Marek , Kowalska Ewelina , Kuśmierek Elżbieta , Albrecht Łukasz , Albrecht Anna
Published: August 2021

The manuscript describes the doubly decarboxylative Giese reaction between N-(acyloxy)phthalimides and coumarin-3-carboxylic acids or chromone-3-carboxylic acids.
Sulfonated polystyrene-block-poly(ethylene-ran-butylene)-block-polystyrene based membranes containing CuO@g-C3N4embedded with 2,4,6-triphenylpyrylium tetrafluoroborate for fuel cell applications
Authors: Maria Mahimai Berlina , Sivasubramanian Gandhimathi , Kulasekaran Poonkuzhali , Deivanayagam Paradesi
Published: August 2021

New series of polymer composites were prepared from sulfonated polystyrene-block-poly(ethylene-ran-butylene)-block-polystyrene and CuO loaded in graphitic carbon nitride embedded with an ionic liquid 2,4,6-triphenylpyrylium tetrafluoroborate.
Innovative nanotools for vascular drug delivery: the atherosclerosis case study
Authors: De Negri Atanasio Giulia , Ferrari Pier Francesco , Campardelli Roberta , Perego Patrizia , Palombo Domenico
Published: August 2021

Nanotechnology represents a new research field for atherosclerosis therapy and diagnosis.
Reprocessable and healable room temperature photoactuators based on a main-chain azobenzene liquid crystalline poly(ester-urea)
Authors: Wang Lei , Zhou Yan , Ma Shengkui , Zhang Huiqi
Published: August 2021

The efficient synthesis of a main-chain azobenzene liquid crystalline poly(ester-urea) with good film-forming abilityviaMichael addition polymerization and its use as reprocessable and healable room temperature photoactuators are first described.
Modelling the functional genomics of Parkinson’s disease inCaenorhabditis elegans:LRRK2and beyond
Authors: Chandler Rachael J. , Cogo Susanna , Lewis Patrick A. , Kevei Eva
Published: August 2021

For decades, Parkinson’s disease (PD) cases have been genetically categorised into familial, when caused by mutations in single genes with a clear inheritance pattern in affected families, or idiopathic, in the absence of an evident monogenic determinant. Recently, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have revealed how common genetic variability can explain up to 36% of PD heritability and that PD manifestation is often determined by multiple variants at different genetic loci. Thus, one of the current challenges in PD research stands in modelling the complex genetic architecture of this condition and translating this into functional studies. Caenorhabditis elegans provide a profound advantage as a reductionist, economical model for PD research, with a short lifecycle, straightforward genome engineering and high conservation of PD relevant neural, cellular and molecular pathways. Functional models of PD genes utilising C. elegans show many phenotypes recapitulating pathologies observed in PD. When contrasted with mammalian in vivo and in vitro models, these are frequently validated, suggesting relevance of C. elegans in the development of novel PD functional models. This review will discuss how the nematode C. elegans PD models have contributed to the uncovering of molecular and cellular mechanisms of disease, with a focus on the genes most commonly found as causative in familial PD and risk factors in idiopathic PD. Specifically, we will examine the current knowledge on a central player in both familial and idiopathic PD, Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) and how it connects to multiple PD associated GWAS candidates and Mendelian disease-causing genes.
An enhanced feedforward flux weakening control for high‐speed permanent magnet machine drive applications
Authors: Lang Xiaoyu , Yang Tao , Li Chen , Yeoh Seang Shen , Bozhko Serhiy , Wheeler Patrick
Published: August 2021

Permanent magnet machines have been used in the high‐speed drive applications due to their high‐efficiency, high‐power‐density, and wide‐speed range characteristics. However, control of such high‐speed permanent magnet machines machine is always challenging and proper flux‐weakening controller design is essential to achieve high performance of these machines. In this paper, an improved feedforward flux‐weakening control scheme for interior permanent magnet synchronous machine (IPMSM) drives are proposed. The proposed method identifies optimal d‐axis and q‐axis currents under different operation regions using maximum‐torque‐per‐ampere curve, voltage limit, and current limit curves with a fast Newton–Raphson algorithm. To ensure the optimal performance of the control mechanism, effects of inductance variations due to the magnetic saturation are considered and an innovative high‐frequency staircase voltage injection method is used to identify the q‐axis inductance. The experimental results show that compared with other existing flux‐weakening methods, the proposed technique can improve the DC‐link voltage utilisation without the need to tune any controller gains and can fully utilise maximum available torque with desirable transient performance.
Design and optimization of off‐grid hybrid renewable power plant with storage system for rural area in Rwanda
Authors: Bedadi Lidetu Abu , GebreMichael Mulugeta Gebrehiwot
Published: August 2021

In this paper, a system comprising a solar photovoltaic (PV)/micro‐hydropower/battery bank/converter has been designed, modelled, simulated, and optimized for the rural area of Wimana village, Rwanda. The total load has been fairly estimated for the residential electric utility needs. To satisfy the load demand, solar photovoltaic (4 kW) and micro‐hydro (15 kW) power capacity were considered as the main sources of energy to supply electricity. Either in peak load times or during low generation of primary sources, storage battery banks can also be discharged. The simulation and optimization were done based on the load demand, climatic data, the economics of integrated system components, and other parameters in which the total net present cost has to be minimized to select an economically feasible and technically capable hybrid power system. Based on the load profile of the data collected for the village, the daily energy consumption was found to be 180.99 kWh/day with a peak load demand of 18.56 kW. The net present cost and the cost of energy for the optimized power system amount to $78,763.26 and $0.0757/kWh respectively. HOMER Pro simulating software tool was used to design optimal off‐grid and energy management systems.
The mucin phenotype does not affect the endoscopic resection outcome of non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors
Authors: Toya Yosuke , Endo Masaki , Yamada Shun , Oizumi Tomofumi , Morishita Toshifumi , Akasaka Risaburo , Yanai Shunichi , Nakamura Shotaro , Eizuka Makoto , Uesugi Noriyuki , Sugai Tamotsu , Matsumoto Takayuki
Published: August 2021

Background and study aims Some studies have reported an association between clinicopathological features and mucin phenotypes of non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (NADETs). However, the association between clinical outcomes of endoscopic resection (ER) and mucin phenotypes has not been elucidated. The aim of this retrospective study was to analyze clinical outcomes of ER of NADETs with reference to mucin phenotypes.

Patients and methods We retrospectively evaluated the clinical outcomes of ER for NADETs performed from 2006 to 2019 and compared clinicopathological characteristics, ER procedures, and outcomes, including adverse events (AEs) among tumors classified by mucin phenotype. Mucin phenotypes were classified as gastric, gastrointestinal, and intestinal based on immunohistochemical examination. Grade of dysplasia was determined according to the Vienna classification (VCL).

Results The proportion of VCL 4/5 was higher in the gastric type (50 %) compared with that in the gastrointestinal (39.1 %, P = 0.009) and intestinal types (5.4 %, P = 0.008), respectively. With no statistical difference in tumor size and ER method among the three groups, no significant difference was observed for ER outcomes, i. e., en bloc and R0 resection rates. In the gastrointestinal and intestinal types, AEs occurred in four cases treated with ESD, but none developed in the gastric type.

Conclusions This study suggests that the mucin phenotype does not affect resection outcome. However, considering high malignant potential and tendency for low AE rates, the gastric type NADETs may be more appropriate for proactive ER than the others.
Liebe Leserinnen, liebe Leser
Authors: Agarwal Kamayni
Published: August 2021

Beschwerden in der Hals- und Nackenregion – wer kennt sie nicht? Selbst die
deutsche Sprache bietet viele Redewendungen und Sprichwörter, die
täglich zum Einsatz kommen, weil wir „bis zum Hals“ in einer
Sache stecken, uns „das Herz bis zum Hals schlägt“ oder weil
uns die „Angst im Nacken steckt“. Wir können uns auch
„Hals über Kopf“ verlieben oder den „Schalk im
Nacken“ haben.
Rethinking the need for overnight admission after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM): a pandemic-driven approach to the future
Authors: Zhang Linda Y. , Bejjani Michael , Ghandour Bachir , Khashab Mouen A.
Published: August 2021

Background and study aims COVID-19 has significantly impacted endoscopic assessment and management of multiple conditions. Our group recommenced treatment of highly symptomatic achalasia patients (Eckardt score ≥ 6) adopting a same-day discharge (SDD) algorithm and present early outcomes of its utilization.

Patients and methods We enrolled all outpatients undergoing POEM at a single tertiary referral center. Patients qualified for SDD if all of the following a priori criteria were met: 1) ASA grade I-III; 2) No intraprocedural adverse events (AEs); 3) Secure mucosal closure; 4) Post-procedure pain/nausea responsive to oral medications; and 5) Patients tolerating clear fluids.

Results In 17 potential SDD candidates (female 82.4 %, median age 51 years [IQR 48–64]) undergoing POEM, SDD was achieved in 14 (82.4 %). The remaining were admitted due to post-procedure pain/nausea (n = 2) and intraprocedural concerns (capnoperitoneum requiring needle decompression, n = 1). There were no post-procedure AEs or unexpected readmissions.

Conclusions This study demonstrates the safety and feasibility of a SDD algorithm for POEM patients and challenges the necessity of routine post-POEM hospital admission. Critically important during the COVID-19 pandemic, this may in fact constitute a changing standard for POEM post-procedure care.
Clinical impact of routine CT esophagogram after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for esophageal motility disorders
Authors: Chartier Marion , Barat Maxime , Dohan Anthony , Belle Arthur , Oudjit Ammar , Abou Ali Einas , Hallit Rachel , Leandri Chloé , Scialom Sophie , Coriat Romain , Chaussade Stanislas , Soyer Philippe , Barret Maximilien
Published: August 2021

Background and study aims Per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) of the lower esophageal sphincter has become a major treatment for esophageal motility disorders, especially achalasia. POEM can result in esophageal bleeding or perforation and pleural and mediastinal effusion. Early routine computed tomography (CT) esophagogram is frequently performed to assess these adverse events (AEs) before resuming oral food intake. We sought to evaluate the value of routine CT esophagogram on postoperative day (POD) 1 after POEM.

Patients and methods This single-center retrospective study was performed in a tertiary referral center for interventional digestive endoscopy. We included consecutive patients with POEM and routine CT esophagogram on POD 1 between July 2018 and July 2019.

Results Fifty-eight patients were included in the study, 79 % of whom had achalasia. Twenty patients (34 %) presented post-endoscopic AEs, including two patients with severe AEs requiring intensive care admission (one compressive pneumothorax and one mediastinitis); no deaths occurred. Of the 58 CT esophagograms performed, only one was normal. The 57 others (98 %) showed at least one abnormal finding: pneumoperitoneum or retroperitoneal air (91 %), pneumomediastinum (78 %), pleural effusion (34 %), pneumothorax (14 %), pneumonia (7 %), pericardial effusion (2 %), and mediastinal collection (2 %). CT esophagograms revealed AEs and modified therapeutic management in eight patients of 58 (14 %), all of whom had clinical symptoms prior to CT.

Conclusions POD 1 CT esophagogram after POEM for esophageal motility disorders diagnosed clinically meaningful AEs in 14 % of patients, all associated with persistent clinical symptoms. Routine use of CT esophagogram after POEM in asymptomatic patients is questionable.
Recent Advances in Cross-Couplings of Functionalized Organozinc Reagents
Authors: Wei Baosheng , Knochel Paul
Published: August 2021

Cross-couplings involving organozinc reagents usually require a Pd-catalyst (Negishi cross-coupling), however, uncatalyzed cross-couplings of zinc organometallics proceed well in the absence of transition-metal catalysts with reactive electrophiles such as benzal 1,1-diacetates, benzhydryl acetates, and iminium trifluoroacetates. Organozinc compounds also undergo C–N bond formation with O-benzoylhydroxylamines or organic azides in the presence of cobalt- or iron-catalysts. Highly diastereoselective and enantioselective cross-couplings can be readily performed with room-temperature configurationally stable alkylzinc species, producing diastereoselectively and enantiomerically enriched products. Finally, highly regioselective magnesiations of functionalized arenes and heteroarenes undergo Negishi (after transmetalation with ZnCl2) or Cu-catalyzed cross-couplings.

1 Introduction

2 Uncatalyzed Cross-Couplings of Organozinc Reagents with Highly Electrophilic Partners

3 Iron- and Cobalt-Catalyzed Aminations using Organozinc Reagents

4 Stereo- and Regioselective Cross-Couplings of Organozinc Reagents

5 Conclusion
Fontan-Associated Liver Disease: Pathophysiology, Staging, and Management
Authors: Téllez Luis , Rodríguez de Santiago Enrique , Albillos Agustín
Published: August 2021

Fontan-associated liver disease is the term used to encompass the disorders arising from abnormal hemodynamic alterations and systemic venous congestion after the Fontan procedure. The histological changes produced in the liver are similar but not equivalent to those seen in other forms of cardiac liver disease. While the natural history of this form of liver disease is poorly established, many Fontan patients ultimately develop portal hypertension-related complications such as ascites, esophageal varices, malnutrition, and encephalopathy. Fontan survivors also show an elevated risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. Adequate staging of the liver damage is essential to anticipate screening strategies and improve global management.
Nasal High-Flow for Weaning Preterm Newborns with Risk of Chronic Lung Disease from nCPAP
Authors: Gregoraci Fernández Angela , Comuñas Gómez Juan José , Rodriguez-Losada Olalla , Flores España Vanessa , Gros Turpin Anna , Pérez Hoyos Santiago , Castillo Salinas Félix
Published: August 2021

Objective The aim of the study is to compare the duration of oxygen therapy by using two methods of weaning from nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) in very preterm babies.

Study Design Between April 2014 and December 2016, 90 preterm <32 weeks and birthweight >1,000 g who, after at least 7 days on nCPAP, were clinically stable on <6 cm H2O and FiO2 <30% were randomly assigned to weaning directly from nCPAP or with nasal high flow therapy (nHFT). In the nCPAP group, pressure was gradually reduced until the infant was stable on 4 cm H2O and then discontinued. In the nHFT group, flow rate was reduced until the infant was stable at 3.l pm and then discontinued.

Results Eighty-four infants completed the study. There were no differences between the groups for the primary outcome, duration of oxygen therapy (median 33 [14–48] versus 28 [15–37] days; p = 0.17). The incidence of moderate-to-severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia was similar. Weaning time was shorter in the nCPAP group (p = 0.02), but the failure rate was slightly higher although non-significant. In the nHFT group, we observed better perception of patient comfort and a lower incidence of severe nasal injury.

Conclusion Weaning by nHFT compared with weaning directly off nCPAP does not prolong duration of oxygen therapy. Rather, it is associated with better perceptions of infant comfort among parents and lower rates of severe nasal injury.

Key Points
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: Alexandria University Experience
Authors: Soliman Maher
Published: August 2021

Introduction Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) that can arise in any parts of the GIT. The clinical behavior and prognosis of GISTs remain unpredictable. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinicopathological features and prognostic factors of GISTs.

Methods The medical files of 93 patients with nonmetastatic GIST presented to our hospital were reviewed. The clinical and pathological parameters, treatment, and follow-up data were collected and correlated to survival outcome using univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results The median age of patients was 48.9 years with a slight male predominance. Abdominal pain (39.8%) was the commonly presenting symptom. About 60% of GISTs originated from the stomach and 22% from the small intestine. Tumors stained positive for CD117 in 95.7%. The median diameter of the tumors was 7 cm. Mitotic counts were < 5/50 high power field in 55.9% of tumors. About 44% of patients had high risk tumors. All patients underwent surgery and about 60.2% of patients received adjuvant imatinib mesylate.

The 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were 74.5 and 80%, respectively. Margin status, tumor site, tumor size, mitotic counts, and risk score were significantly associated with DFS and OS in both univariate and multivariate analyses.

Conclusion Surgery is the mainstay treatment for nonmetastatic GISTs. Tumor size, tumor location, margin status, mitotic count, and risk score were predictive factors for DFS and OS of GISTs.
Structure of crystalline and amorphous materials in the NASICON system Na1+xAlxGe2−x(PO4)3
Authors: Gammond Lawrence V. D. , Auer Henry , Mendes Da Silva Rita , Zeidler Anita , Ortiz-Mosquera Jairo F. , Nieto-Muñoz Adriana M. , Rodrigues Ana Candida M. , d’Anciães Almeida Silva Igor , Eckert Hellmut , Benmore Chris J. , Salmon Philip S.
Published: August 2021

The structure of crystalline and amorphous materials in the sodium (Na) super-ionic conductor system Na1+xAlxGe2−x(PO4)3 with x = 0, 0.4, and 0.8 was investigated by combining (i) neutron and x-ray powder diffraction and pair-distribution function analysis with (ii) 27Al and 31P magic angle spinning (MAS) and 31P/23Na double-resonance nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. A Rietveld analysis of the powder diffraction patterns shows that the x = 0 and x = 0.4 compositions crystallize into space group-type R3̄, whereas the x = 0.8 composition crystallizes into space group-type R3̄c. For the as-prepared glass, the pair-distribution functions and 27Al MAS NMR spectra show the formation of sub-octahedral Ge and Al centered units, which leads to the creation of non-bridging oxygen (NBO) atoms. The influence of these atoms on the ion mobility is discussed. When the as-prepared glass is relaxed by thermal annealing, there is an increase in the Ge and Al coordination numbers that leads to a decrease in the fraction of NBO atoms. A model is proposed for the x = 0 glass in which super-structural units containing octahedral Ge(6) and tetrahedral P(3) motifs are embedded in a matrix of tetrahedral Ge(4) units, where superscripts denote the number of bridging oxygen atoms. The super-structural units can grow in size by a reaction in which NBO atoms on the P(3) motifs are used to convert Ge(4) to Ge(6) units. The resultant P(4) motifs thereby provide the nucleation sites for crystal growth via a homogeneous nucleation mechanism.
An ultra-stable 1.5 T permanent magnet assembly for qubit experiments at cryogenic temperatures
Authors: Adambukulam C. , Sewani V. K. , Stemp H. G. , Asaad S. , Mądzik M. T. , Morello A. , Laucht A.
Published: August 2021

Magnetic fields are a standard tool in the toolbox of every physicist and are required for the characterization of materials, as well as the polarization of spins in nuclear magnetic resonance or electron paramagnetic resonance experiments. Quite often, a static magnetic field of sufficiently large, but fixed, magnitude is suitable for these tasks. Here, we present a permanent magnet assembly that can achieve magnetic field strengths of up to 1.5 T over an air gap length of 7 mm. The assembly is based on a Halbach array of neodymium magnets, with the inclusion of the soft magnetic material Supermendur to boost the magnetic field strength inside the air gap. We present the design, simulation, and characterization of the permanent magnet assembly, measuring an outstanding magnetic field stability with a drift rate of |D| < 2.8 ppb/h. Our measurements demonstrate that this assembly can be used for spin qubit experiments inside a dilution refrigerator, successfully replacing the more expensive and bulky superconducting solenoids.
Quantum networks based on color centers in diamond
Authors: Ruf Maximilian , Wan Noel H. , Choi Hyeongrak , Englund Dirk , Hanson Ronald
Published: August 2021

With the ability to transfer and process quantum information, large-scale quantum networks will enable a suite of fundamentally new applications, from quantum communications to distributed sensing, metrology, and computing. This Perspective reviews requirements for quantum network nodes and color centers in diamond as suitable node candidates. We give a brief overview of state-of-the-art quantum network experiments employing color centers in diamond and discuss future research directions, focusing, in particular, on the control and coherence of qubits that distribute and store entangled states, and on efficient spin–photon interfaces. We discuss a route toward large-scale integrated devices combining color centers in diamond with other photonic materials and give an outlook toward realistic future quantum network protocol implementations and applications.
The role of pre-existing defects in shock-generated ejecta in copper
Authors: Flanagan R. M. , Meyers M. A. , Fensin S. J.
Published: August 2021

The interaction of shock waves with non-planar free surfaces can cause atoms to eject from the surface, leading to the formation of ejecta. These non-planarities in the free surface can occur due to machining of the free surface or can be induced in the shock wave itself due to the presence of heterogeneities in the material. Both cases lead to the formation of ejecta. While the effect of machining on ejecta has been well studied, the latter has not been a topic of significant investigations. In this work, molecular dynamics simulations are used to systematically investigate the effect of size and concentration of He bubbles in Cu with planar free surfaces on ejecta production. It is shown that the presence of defects leads to the formation of non-planarity in the shock wave itself producing ejecta as the front reaches the flat free surface. The cluster size and velocity of ejected particles greatly exceeds that of pure Cu; the radius, density, and nature of the helium-filled voids alter the mass, velocity, and size distribution of the ejected matter.
Outer-layer structure arrangements based on the large-scale zero-crossings at moderate Reynolds number
Authors: Tang Zhanqi , Fan Ziye , Chen Letian , Jiang Nan
Published: August 2021

The structural arrangements in the outer layer of turbulent boundary layer flows were explored with large-field time-resolved particle image velocimetry measurements at moderate Reynolds number. The large- and small-scale structures were reconstructed by the modes of multiscale proper orthogonal decomposition. The association between hairpin packets and uniform momentum zones (UMZs) was examined by the conditional averaging results based on the large-scale positive-to-negative/negative-to-positive (PN/NP) zero-crossings. The scale arrangements provided the spatial evidence that the intense small-scale swirling motions are aligned in the confined internal shear layers along the backside of the large-scale, low-speed region, which was characterized by hairpin vortex packets. The uniform momentum zones (UMZs) conditioned on the large-scale PN/NP zero-crossings were detected from the histograms of the instantaneous streamwise velocity. The attached eddy behavior was consolidated based on the conditional events, by presenting the joint probability of UMZs thickness and wall-normal location. A close agreement of the conditional averaging raw velocity and modal velocity was examined. Moreover, the conditional averaging results of the UMZs interface probability exhibited a similar spatial distribution as the small-scale turbulent kinetic energy and swirling strength, which manifests the coincidence between the hairpin heads and the UMZs interfaces. This result was confirmed by the distribution of the wall-normal locations corresponding to the maximum value of interface probability and small-scale representations, which performs a streamwise inclination angle of 15°. The statistical spatial feature demonstrated the association between hairpin packets and uniform momentum as proposed by Adrian et al. [“Vortex organization in the outer region of the turbulent boundary layer,” J. Fluid Mech. 422, 1–54 (2000)].
A highly transparent laminated composite cathode for organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Chen Xiaotian , Wu Dan , Wang Jintao , Zhou Yibin , Zhang Ziyu , Li Chuannan , Zhang Jian , Chen Ping , Duan Yu
Published: August 2021

Transparent conductive electrodes are one of the important components of organic optoelectronic devices. Mg:Ag alloys have been widely used as a semi-transparent cathode for top-emitting organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) or transparent OLEDs (TrOLEDs) due to their high conductivity and relatively low work function. However, their low transmittance makes the light-extraction efficiency to be comparatively low. In this study, a highly transparent (84.6% in the visible light range), conductive, laminated cathode with the structure of ZnO/Mg:Ag/ZnO was fabricated via atomic layer deposition (ALD). ALD-deposited ZnO is used to protect the vulnerable ultrathin Mg:Ag-alloy layer, while preserving its low work function for the entire structure. In particular, the bottom ZnO layer is used as an ETL, which can provide reasonable energy alignment between the cathode layer and the emission layer and prevent metal particles from penetrating into the underlying organic layer. The top-emission OLED, which is prepared in this study by using the laminated cathode, showed an 85.8% increase in brightness, with a current density of 11.2 mA/cm3 at 4.0 V, which is an ultra-low voltage compared with devices made with Mg:Ag cathodes. In addition, the total luminance of TrOLEDs increases 34.4% compared with devices using Mg:Ag cathodes. Furthermore, the average transmittance of the device was still as high as 77.19% for visible light.
Deformation and breakup dynamics of droplets within a tapered channel
Authors: Montessori Andrea , Rocca Michele La , Prestininzi Pietro , Tiribocchi Adriano , Succi Sauro
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we numerically investigate the breakup dynamics of droplets in an emulsion flowing in a tapered microchannel with a narrow constriction. The mesoscale approach for multicomponent fluids with near contact interactions is shown to capture the deformation and breakup dynamics of droplets interacting within the constriction, in agreement with experimental evidence. In addition, it permits us to investigate in detail the hydrodynamic phenomena occurring during breakup stages. Finally, a suitable deformation parameter is introduced and analyzed to characterize the state of deformation of the system by inspecting pairs of interacting droplets flowing in the narrow channel.
Photothermal therapy based on magnetic nanoparticles in cancer
Authors: Wang Shuren , Hou Yanglong
Published: August 2021

Photothermal therapy (PTT) is an extensively used kind of cancer treatment based on thermal energy, which has been technically mature relative to other emerging nanotechnologies. Initially, single-phase magnetic nanoparticles (NPs) have been used for PTT due to their excellent biocompatibility and photothermal properties. With the boom of research, various types of composite-phase NPs have been developed to improve the efficiency and broaden the application range of PTT. The synergistic effect of PTT and other therapies have also gradually attracted the attention of researchers in achieving enhanced tumor elimination. However, the intrinsic obstacles of PTT have restricted the widespread clinical application, and the vague pathological mechanisms of PTT have also made it more difficult to promote clinical translation. In this Perspective, the current research progress of PTT including a diversified selection of magnetic NPs prospects toward the clinic, and the potential pathological mechanism will be overviewed. Meanwhile, the potential outlook of open challenges will be discussed for the utility of PTT.