bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case report of possible Legg–Calve–Perthes disease on Roman dogs from Gaul (France)
Authors: Lamarque Camille
Published: May 2022

This case study reviews the first archeological cases of avascular femoral head necrosis, known as Legg–Calve–Perthes disease, on two small Roman dogs from ancient Gaul (France). LCPD diagnosis is difficult in advanced degenerative stages of the disease and one of its differential diagnoses is slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE). In both cases presented here, the development of this disease is probably related to the small morphology of the two dogs. Small dogs appeared to emerge in the Roman Empire when the dog became highly specialized. This disease raises questions about the health conditions of these small dogs in Roman times.
Human–elephant interaction: Community perspectives on conflict mitigation and conservation mechanisms
Authors: Nayak Medha , Swain Pranaya Kumar
Published: May 2022

The instances of human–elephant conflict (HEC) are becoming pervasive in elephant range areas across the globe. One of the primary reasons is the exclusion and under‐representation of local communities in the planning and implementation of mitigation strategies. However, engaging with local communities and considering their viewpoints are vital for the success of conflict mitigation and conservation efforts. This qualitative study was undertaken to gain a reasonably comprehensive understanding of the local community's perspectives concerning elephants in the Balasore district of Odisha, a state along the Eastern coast of India. Qualitative data obtained primarily through focus group discussions were analyzed using MAXQDA 2020 to perform thematic analysis of participants' narratives. Six common themes emerged from the study: exposure and experiences with elephants, the efficacy of deterrents, compassionate payment provisions, reasons for tolerance, and expectations. Attempts were made to understand the community viewpoints and offer implementable recommendations to improve human–elephant interactions by adopting more inclusive and participatory conservation practices.
Amide polymers based on N‐phenyl‐p‐phenylenediamine with α‐olefins‐co‐maleic anhydride as multifunctional additives for lubricant application
Authors: Faujdar Ekta , Singh Raj K.
Published: May 2022

The high temperature and harsh oxidizing conditions in engine sump results in sludge and varnish deposits in the engine, due to which wear debris and corrosion developed in the internal parts of the engine. This is also responsible for the increased oil viscosity. To address these problems, four polymeric multifunctional amides of N‐phenyl‐p‐phenylenediamine were synthesized from copolymer intermediates poly(α‐olefins‐co‐maleic anhydride) having C‐12, C‐14, C‐16, and C‐18 chain length. This article describes the systematic study of poly(α‐olefin‐co‐maleic anhydride)amides chemistry as multifunctional lubricant additives. Molecular elucidation was carried out by Fourier transform infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance while molecular weight and thermal stability were measured by gel permeation chromatography and thermogravimetric analysis. Standard methods were used to analyze the viscosity‐temperature relationship along with detergent‐dispersant, anti‐oxidant, and anti‐corrosion activities in reference base oil at varying concentration levels. All the prepared polymer compounds effectively addressed the concern problems, but poly(octadecene‐co‐maleic anhydride)amide of N‐phenyl‐p‐phenylenediamine showed better performance over the other additives due to the increased solubility. The pour point depressed from the base value −15 to −30°C while viscosity index (VI) increased to 197 from 178 with longer chain additive at 5000 ppm concentration. Dispersancy was found to be increased by 145%, while as far detergency was concerned, sludge deposition was reduced to 20.1 mg from 87.5 mg base value of reference base oil at 5000 ppm. 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl assay was used to determine the anti‐oxidant activity and at 1000 ppm, long alkylated polymer shows the excellent result by increasing the inhibition efficiency by 95.58% while the same additive impart the best results at 5000 ppm by reducing the corrosion and penetration rate by 75.80% and 75.43% respectively. Rheology also studied to examine the shear and temperature effect on the dynamic viscosity of the reference oil.
Improving comprehension, recall and attention using multimedia‐informed assent among pediatric oncology patients: A comparative randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wongthai Passara , Photia Apichat , Traivaree Chanchai , Monsereenusorn Chalinee , Lertvivatpong Nawachai , Sudnawa Khemika Khemakanok , Rujkijyanont Piya
Published: May 2022

Background

Assent should be obtained in all children involved in research in keeping with their level of maturity. Traditional assent forms contain too much information and are difficult to read. The study aimed to identify an effective tool to enhance children's comprehension during the assent process and focused on those with cancer who are likely more engaged in research involving greater than minimal risk.

Methods

In all, 116 children with cancer were randomized to receive either a paper‐based assent document or a multimedia‐based assent document. Open‐ended and multiple‐choice questions were used to assess comprehension and recall. Time spent on the documents and children's behavior during the assent process was recorded to determine their attention and satisfaction.

Results

Children randomized to a multimedia‐based assent document achieved significant higher comprehension and recall assessment scores (p‐values <.001). The high score achievement significantly correlated with the child's age with adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 1.90 (p‐value <.001; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.35–2.66) for comprehension assessment and 1.59 (p‐value .001; 95% CI: 1.20–2.12) for recall assessment. Children randomized to a multimedia‐based assent document had significant longer time spent on the document (p‐value .001) with less numbers of inattention (p‐value <.001) and expressed more signs of enjoyment during the assent process (p‐values <.001).

Conclusion

Multimedia‐based assent document successfully enhanced comprehension, recall, and attention with more satisfaction compared with a traditional paper‐based document among children with cancer. This approach may be considered as an alternative format for children engaging in research involving greater than minimal risk.
Mental health assessment of youth with sickle cell disease and their primary caregivers during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Green Nancy S. , Manwani Deepa , Smith‐Whitley Kim , Aygun Banu , Appiah‐Kubi Abena , Smaldone Arlene M.
Published: May 2022

Youth with sickle cell disease (SCD) and their caregivers are susceptible to stress and depression, perhaps exacerbated by pandemic‐associated health and economic concerns. Most of the 50 youth–caregiver dyads enrolled in the multisite trial, Hydroxyurea Adherence for Personal Best in Sickle Cell Treatment (HABIT), took an online survey of self‐reported mental health symptoms and food insecurity during the 2020 COVID‐19 pandemic. Compared to largely pre‐pandemic results, prevalence of mental health symptoms in dyad members appeared to have shifted: fewer youth and more caregivers were affected during the pandemic; many of both groups lacked optimism. Pandemic/post‐pandemic screening of youth with SCD for mental health symptoms and food insecurity appears warranted.
Effect of fumed silica and halloysite nanoparticles on the microstructure, mechanical, and fracture properties of thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer toughened polypropylene
Authors: Rajaee Pouya , Ashenai Ghasemi Faramarz , Fasihi Mohammad , Sadeghi Alireza , Kakeh Behnam
Published: May 2022

In this article, mechanical and fracture properties of two types of nanoparticles, namely fumed silica (FS) and halloysite nanotube filled polypropylene (PP) toughened with two types of thermoplastic elastomers (TPOs), namely ethylene‐based TPO (ETPO) and propylene‐based TPO (PTPO) were investigated. A full factorial design was exploited to clarify the influence of each factor as well as its interaction on outcomes. The essential work of fracture (EWF) approach was utilized to study the effect of each factor on fracture behavior. The addition of TPO enhanced the elongation at break and non‐EWF by 62% and 40%, in turn. In addition, the tensile strength, modulus, and EWF increased by 8%, 34%, and 7%, respectively, by increasing the nanoparticles up to 1 wt%. The blend nanocomposite with 10 wt% of PTPO and 1 wt% of FS was selected as the best stiffness‐ toughness‐strength equivalence based on optimization results. Additionally, the R2extracted from the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and plots of normal probability indicated good agreement between the experimental data and for foreseen one using full factorial models.
Improved electromagnetic interference shielding properties of poly (vinylidene fluoride) composites based on carbon nanotubes and graphene nanoplatelets
Authors: Wang Jie , Li Hui , Wang Zeyun , Xin Dehua , Luo Jingyun , Bai Shijian , Zhou Hongfu
Published: May 2022

In order to improve the electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF), both carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) as functional fillers were chosen and employed in this work. The PVDF‐based composites were prepared through melt blending and the hybrid fillers exhibited fine interaction with PVDF matrix. CNTs and GNPs could act as heterogeneous nucleation agents for PVDF matrix, thus increased the crystallization peak temperature. The gradual formation of interconnected conductive network of hybrid fillers could improve the conductivity and rheological properties of PVDF effectively. Especially, in contrast to those of pure PVDF, about four orders of magnitude increment for their storage modulus and complex viscosity of PVDF/GNPs/CNTs composite as well as approximate 10 orders of magnitude improvement in their electrical conductivity were obtained. Adding 2 wt% CNTs in PVDF matrix could generate the conductive network and further GNPs addition was helpful to obtain higher EMI shielding effectiveness. The new PVDF samples would possess wide applications as electromagnetic shielding materials, on account of their simple processing, low‐cost and without use of organic solvent characteristics.
Stress mindset and mental health status among Chinese high school students: The mediating role of exam stress appraisals
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Zhang Jingyu , Sun Xianghong , Zhang Liang
Published: May 2022

Exam stress is one of the main stressors for adolescents, which can trigger severe mental health problems and performance decline. As an alterable individual variable that influences stress consequences, stress mindset has attracted academic attention recently. However, the relationship between stress mindset and adolescents’ responses toward exams has not been fully understood. This study aimed to investigate whether stress mindset affected pre‐exam mental health status and exam performance, and whether appraisals of exam mediated such influence. We collected stress mindset, threat and challenge appraisals, pre‐exam mental health status, and exam scores from 185 Chinese 11th‐grade students. All of them would take an important and unified exam organized on the school level. Results showed that the stress‐is‐enhancing mindset negatively predicted students’ symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, but had no direct effect on performance. Further mediation analysis showed that stress‐is‐enhancing mindset was positively associated with the challenging appraisal and was negatively associated with the threat appraisal, thus having better health status (including fewer symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress) and performance. These results suggest that the stress mindset had an association with students’ response toward exams, and how they appraised the upcoming exam would be an important indirect pathway. Future studies may benefit from changing students’ mindsets to protect them from negative consequences of exam stress.
On the way of making highly stable Ag nanoparticles with a narrower size distribution by microplasma
Authors: Ma Yupengxue , Wang Ruoyu , Yan Tingting , Qin Xiaoru , Zhang Qing , Zhong Xiaoxia
Published: May 2022

An efficient microplasma chemistry method to synthesize highly stable Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) that can be stored for 2 months is presented. The sucrose, maltose, lactose, and glucose are applied to stablize the produced AgNPs, respectively, and the pH value of the solution is controlled by using NaHCO3 with different concentrations. It can be concluded that AgNPs with different sizes can be achieved by selecting different stabilizers and adjusting the pH value of solution. Finally, by checking the UV absorbance of AgNPs solution within 2 months, the stability of the AgNPs is investigated. It is found that the stability of AgNPs in water solution can also be improved by changing the pH of the solution and the kind of colloidal stabilizer.
Adhesion Forces Measurement of Explosives and Nanodiamonds
Authors: Guillevic Mazheva , Spitzer Denis , Pichot Vincent
Published: May 2022

The goal of the present study is to give novel experimental insight into the interaction forces existing between materials of different nature (i. e. explosives, nanodiamonds). Evaluation of interaction – or adhesion – forces is of great importance in the field of composite elaboration and chemical detection, their intensity being an expression of the chemical affinity. An Atomic Force Microscope equipped with a Force Measurement module was used for investigation of some adhesion forces. Compared with reference raw silicon materials, the measured adhesion force was significantly higher when the materials of interest (explosives, nanodiamonds) were in contact with each other. The interaction between TNT and RDX explosives is particularly strong (300 nN). An adhesion force of 110 nN is measured when RDX is in contact with the surface of nanodiamonds. Their affinity and the sort of interaction will be discussed hereafter based on their molecular structure.
On the Use of Fluorine‐Containing Nano‐Aluminum Composite Particles to Tailor Composite Solid Rocket Propellants
Authors: Uhlenhake Kyle E. , Yehia Omar R. , Noel Andrew , Terry Brandon C. , Örnek Metin , Belal Hatem M. , Gunduz Ibrahim E. , Son Steven F.
Published: May 2022

The burning rate of solid propellants is an important factor for optimizing rocket motors and improving performance. The enhanced burning rate can increase thrust and reduce a propulsion system‘s overall size and weight. In this study, a novel nano‐aluminum/THV composite additive was prepared and introduced into a solid ammonium perchlorate/polybutadiene composite solid rocket propellant to enhance its burning rate. The morphology of the composite particle additive and its effects on combustion were characterized. The use of small quantities (<15 wt.%) of the additive resulted in a burning rate enhancement of up to 2.1 times that of the conventional coarse aluminized propellant with a specific impulse loss of only 3 seconds, and as much as 4.7 times enhancement with a predicted loss of 22 seconds in theoretical specific impulse. Some of this loss may be recovered by the improved combustion efficiency in smaller rocket motors because the additive was shown to significantly reduce the aluminum agglomeration at the propellant burning surface and reduce the size of reaction products which may reduce two‐phase flow losses. The additive also provides wide burning rate tailorability, favorable for motor, grain, and thrust curve design. The burning rate enhancement mechanism is thought to be a physical cratering mechanism governed by the burning rate disparity between the binder/oxidizer system and the nano‐aluminum/fluoropolymer additive and not a chemical catalytic effect.
Combustion and Thermal Decomposition Research on 1,2‐Dicyclopropyl‐1‐Methyl Cyclopropane (DMCP) as High Energy Fuel for Liquid Rocket Propellants
Authors: Sun Haiyun , Zhang Xing , Wang Jingqi , Jiang Rongpei , Fang Tao , Li Yuchuan , Pang Siping
Published: May 2022

1,2‐Dicyclopropyl‐1‐methyl cyclopropane (DMCP) was found a high‐energy liquid hydrocarbon propellant. A model combustion chamber was designed and manufactured to investigate the combustion performance of DMCP and Chinese rocket kerosene (RK) in comparison. Due to the higher density of DMCP, its orifice flow coefficient was 3.4 % larger than that of RK. The chamber pressure fluctuation amplitude of DMCP was within 10 % of the average pressure value. Under typical conditions, the flame intensity of DMCP combustion flame was more intense than that of RK. When the mixture ratios varied from 2.0–2.8, the characteristic velocity changes of DMCP were between 1626 m/s and 1636 m/s. It was not apparent that the characteristic velocity of DMCP was affected by the change of mixture ratio. The combustion efficiency of DMCP increased with the rise of its mixture ratio (varying between 0.902 and 0.921), higher than that of RK in a low mixture ratio. The apparent activation energy values (E) of DMCP were 202.0 kJ ⋅ mol−1 and 202.9 kJ ⋅ mol−1, respectively, according to Kissinger and Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa (FWO) equations.
Critical Behavior and Magnetocaloric Effect in Co2CrAl Heusler Alloy
Authors: Guha Shampa , Datta Subhadeep , Panda Shantanu Kumar , Kar Manoranjan
Published: May 2022

The analysis of structural, electrical transport, critical magnetic behavior, and magnetocaloric properties of Co2CrAl Heusler alloys has been conducted here. Co2CrAl full Heusler alloy has been prepared by the conventional arc melting method in Ar atmosphere and post‐annealing in a vacuum‐sealed quartz tube. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern reveals the crystallization of the alloy to the Fmm space group with L21 crystal symmetry. The correspondence between the magnetic and electrical transport properties of the Co2CrAl alloy has been observed. This alloy exhibits paramagnetic to ferromagnetic transition (Curie temperature) just above room temperature at around 340 K. Metallic to semiconducting transition occurs near the magnetic Curie temperature. Critical magnetic behavior has been analyzed by employing the Arrott plot, Kouvel–Fisher methods, and critical isotherm analysis. These conclude that the exchange interaction in Co2CrAl alloy follows between mean‐field theory having spin–spin long‐range interaction and the 3D Heisenberg model. The magnetocaloric effect has been explored from the isothermal magnetization data by employing Maxwell's equations. The highest magnetic entropy change is found to be ≈0.99 J (kg K)−1 for a magnetic field change of 30 kOe. A large working temperature window of 57 K is the advantage of the present alloy.
Computed tomography measured tissue density of pectoral muscle and liver predicts outcomes in heart transplant recipients
Authors: Kuchnia Adam J , Lortie Jevin , Osterbauer Katie , Hess Timothy , Stabo Nicholas , Tsuchiya Nanae , Wheeler Nathan , Binkley Neil , Francois Christopher , Schiebler Mark , Hermsen Joshua , Dhingra Ravi
Published: May 2022

Background

Computed tomography (CT)‐derived measures of tissue quality can add to frailty assessment and improve selection of candidates for heart transplant. We investigated the prognostic value of CT measures of tissue density for predicting hospital length of stay (LOS) and mortality post‐transplant.

Methods

All patients at a quaternary care hospital between 1999 to 2018 with preheart transplant CT scans and available data on transplant outcomes were eligible (n = 189), including a subset within the total cohort with scans 6‐month pretransplant (n = 103). Axial chest CT scans were analysed for liver and muscle density at the 12th thoracic vertebrae and aortic arch landmarks, respectively. Cox and linear regression models examined the risk of death and LOS, respectively, according to median (above or below) pectoral muscle density. Low‐density muscle (LDM) area and liver density were analysed as continuous variables.

Results

Out of 157 patients with readable CT scans (median age 55 years, interquartile range [50–60] 10% women), 31 died on 1‐year follow up. Patients with higher than and at median pectoral muscle density (39.5 Hounsfield Unit [HU]) had better 1‐year survival in the overall cohort (hazard ratio [HR] 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.673, 0.989; p = 0.039), with the 6‐month cohort showing a trend (HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.603, 1.023; p = 0.074) towards improved survival. Conversely, every 5‐cm2 increase in pectoral LDM area was associated with 2.4‐day lower LOS (p = 0.045) in the overall cohort, and a 2.6‐day lower LOS in the 6‐month cohort (p = 0.05). Patients with higher ratio of normal‐density muscle to LDM had higher LOS (p < 0.01). Every 5‐HU increase in liver density at a region of interest was associated with 0.24‐day higher post‐transplant LOS in the overall cohort, and a 0.41 higher LOS in the 6‐month cohort (p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with higher preheart transplant pectoral muscle density had greater 1‐year survival. Higher pectoral LDM area was associated with decreased LOS post‐transplant and higher liver density was associated with increased LOS. These findings raise possibilities that measures of muscle density as they reflect to quality of muscle may have prognostic implications. Future studies with prospective design are needed to confirm these findings.
Patterns of adverse childhood experiences and cardiovascular risk factors in U.S. adults
Authors: Wooldridge Jennalee S. , Tynan Mara , Rossi Fernanda S. , Gasperi Marianna , McLean Caitlin L. , Bosch Jeane , Trivedi Ranak B. , Herbert Matthew S. , Afari Niloofar
Published: May 2022

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are associated with poor health yet, we know little about how distinct patterns of ACE types are associated with cardiovascular (cardiovascular (CVD)) risk factors. The current study 1) examined associations of latent ACE classes with modifiable CVD risk factors including high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, hypertension, high triglycerides, physical inactivity, overweight/obesity, and lifetime depression; and 2) examined the impact of socioeconomic status‐related (SES) factors on these relationships. Using a cross‐sectional analysis of the National Epidemiologic Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions‐III (n = 36,309) data, four latent classes of ACEs were previously identified: 1) low adversity, 2) primarily household dysfunction, 3) primarily maltreatment, and 4) multiple adversity types. We examined the association of these classes with CVD risk factors in adulthood and subsequently, the same model accounting for SES‐related factors. Tobacco smoking, overweight/obesity, and lifetime depression were each associated with higher odds of being in classes 2, 3, and 4 than class 1, respectively. These relationships held after adjusting for SES‐related factors. Class 4 was associated with the most CVD risk factors, including high triglycerides and high cholesterol after controlling for SES‐related factors. The consistent associations between tobacco smoking, overweight/obesity, and lifetime depression with each adverse ACE profile, even after controlling for SES, suggest behavioural CVD prevention programs should target these CVD risk factors simultaneously.
On Cordelair–Greil Model about Electrophoretic Deposition
Authors: Liu Wenbo , Li Yifei , Li Depeng , Chen Lixuan , Zhao Jinyang , Liu Pai , Sun Xiao Wei , Wang Guoping
Published: May 2022

Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) is a facile technique to deposit quantum dots (QDs) films, which can be used as the color conversion layers for display applications. To better understand the EPD process, researchers have built many models of the EPD process. However, most of these models lack solid experimental support. Here, by adopting simple yet effective solvent engineering and well‐designed experiments, this study proves the Cordelair–Greil model on EPD processes. Moreover, some supplements about this model are made according to practical experiments. The experimental verification of the Cordelair–Greil model is a solid step toward revealing the dynamics of the EPD process. Furthermore, the formation of cracks in EPD deposited QD films is prevented through solvent engineering. This work proves that besides modifying the intrinsic properties of QDs, solvent engineering is also a simple, effective, and low‐cost way to study the EPD process and improve the QD film qualities deposited.
New Mechanism for Long Photo‐Induced Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy in Au Nanoparticles Embedded in TiO2
Authors: Brognara Andrea , Bricchi Beatrice R. , William Ludovic , Brinza Ovidiu , Konstantakopoulou Maria , Bassi Andrea Li , Ghidelli Matteo , Lidgi‐Guigui Nathalie
Published: May 2022

The photo‐induced enhanced Raman spectroscopy (PIERS) effect is a phenomenon taking place when plasmonic nanoparticles deposited on a semiconductor are illuminated by UV light prior to Raman measurement. Results from the literature show that the PIERS effect lasts for about an hour. The proposed mechanism for this effect is the creation of oxygen vacancies in the semiconductor that would create a path for charge transfer between the analyte and the nanoparticles. However, this hypothesis has never been confirmed experimentally. Furthermore, the tested structure of the PIERS substrate has always been composed of plasmonic nanoparticles deposited on top of the semiconductor. Here, gold nanoparticles co‐deposited with porous TiO2 are used as a PIERS substrate. The deposition process confers the nanoparticles a unique position half buried in the nanoporous semiconductor. The resulting PIERS intensity is among the highest measured until now but most importantly the duration of the effect is significantly longer (at least 8 days). Cathodoluminescence measurements on these samples show that two distinct mechanisms are at stake for co‐deposited and drop‐casted gold nanoparticles. The oxygen vacancies hypothesis tends to be confirmed for the latter, but the narrowing of the depletion zone explains the long PIERS effect.
Artificial Lipids and Macrophage Membranes Coassembled Biomimetic Nanovesicles for Antibacterial Treatment
Authors: Che Junyi , Sun Lingyu , Shan Jingyang , Shi Yong , Zhou Qing , Zhao Yuanjin , Sun Lingyun
Published: May 2022

Tissue bacterial infections are a major pathological factor in many diseases. Effects on this aspect are in focus for the development of coordinated therapeutic strategies for bacterial killing and anti‐inflammation. Here, inspired by the biodetoxification capacity of immune cells, multifunctional biomimetic nanovesicles (MϕM‐LPs) that are co‐assembled by macrophage membranes and artificial lipids to deliver antibiotics for treating bacterial infections, are presented. The macrophage membrane endows the MϕM‐LPs with the capacity of lipopolysaccharide and inflammatory cytokine neutralization, while the artificial lipid membrane can be further engineered to increase the fluidity and anchor to bacteria. In addition, the MϕM‐LPs can deliver sufficient ciprofloxacin with controllable release to accomplish an excellent antibacterial activity and biodetoxification capacity in vitro. Based on these advantages, it is demonstrated in a mouse model of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) focal infection, that a single injection of the biomimetic nanovesicles can effectively anchor to and eliminate S. aureus in the infected tissue and reduce inflammatory cytokine levels. Thus, the tissue regeneration and collagen deposition can be accelerated. These results indicate the potential values of integrating natural and artificial membrane materials as a multifunctional biomimetic drug delivery system to treat bacterial infections.
EHD1 promotes the cancer stem cell (CSC)‐like traits of glioma cells via interacting with CD44 and suppressing CD44 degradation
Authors: Lu Yunhe , Wang Wei , Tan Shubin
Published: May 2022

Plenty of evidence has shown that endocytosis plays a key role in cancer progression; however, its effects in the progression of cancer stem cells (CSCs) are still fragmentary. In the present study, we firstly identified that mammalian Eps15 homology domain protein 1 (EHD1), an endocytic and metastasis‐associated gene, was upregulated in the 3D non‐adherent spheres derived from glioma cells compared to that in the corresponding parental cells. Further functional experiments revealed that EHD1 knockdown reduced the CSC‐like traits of glioma cells, which were evident by the decrease of sphere‐formation ability, ALDH1 activity, and CSC markers' expression. Additionally, EHD1 knockdown attenuated the tumor‐initiating ability of glioma cells in vivo. Furthermore, it was shown that EHD1 bound to CD44, enhanced CD44 stability, and prevented its total ubiquitination. Indeed, overexpression of CD44 rescued the inhibitory effects of EHD1 knockdown on the CSC‐like traits of glioma cells. Finally, through the online dataset analysis, we found that EHD1 indeed exhibited a higher level in glioma tissues relative to that in normal tissues, and a positive correlation with CSC markers' expression in glioma tissues. Notably, EHD1 expression was negatively correlated with the overall survival and relapse‐free survival of glioma patients. Thus, this work indicates that EHD1 might be a potent target for glioma progression, especially through breaking the EHD1–CD44 interaction.
Yang transform–homotopy perturbation method for solving a non‐Newtonian viscoelastic fluid flow on the turbine disk
Authors: Al‐Griffi Takia Ahmed J. , Al‐Saif Abdul‐Sattar J.
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a new method is suggested and implemented to find an analytical approximate solution for a non‐Newtonian viscoelastic fluid flow on the turbine disk, used to cool the axisymmetric channel that has a porous wall. The new method depends on combining the algorithms of Yang transform and the homotopy perturbation method (HPM) named Yang transformation–homotopy perturbation method (YTHPM). To ensure the correctness of the method, we compared the results of YTHPM with the ones obtained by the numerical method (Runge–Kutta 4th order) and by other methods as reported in the literature; a good agreement was observed. Additionally, the effect of the power‐law index, Prandtl and Reynolds numbers on the velocity, and heat transfer was studied. The results that we obtained by using the new method confirm that this method has high accuracy and efficiency compared with other methods, used to find the analytical approximate solution for the current problem. Furthermore, the graphs and tables of error show the validity, utility, and necessity of this method.
Quantum chaos and unitary black hole evaporation
Authors: Lowe David A. , Thorlacius Lárus
Published: May 2022

Abstract

The formation and evaporation of small AdS black holes in a theory with a holographic dual is governed by the usual rules of quantum mechanics. The eigenstate thermalization hypothesis explains the validity of semiclassical gravity for local bulk observables and can be used to quantify the magnitude of quantum corrections to the semi-classical approximation. The holographic dual produces a basis of black hole states with finite energy width, and observables that are smooth functions on the classical phase space will self-average over a large number of energy eigenstates, exponential in the Bekenstein-Hawking entropy S, leading to results that are consistent with semiclassical gravity up to small corrections of order e−S/2. As expected, the semiclassical description breaks down for transition amplitudes that reflect the unitary evolution of the holographic theory.
Non-perturbative phase structure of the bosonic BMN matrix model
Authors: Dhindsa Navdeep Singh , Jha Raghav G. , Joseph Anosh , Samlodia Abhishek , Schaich David
Published: May 2022

Abstract

We study the bosonic part of the BMN matrix model for wide ranges of temperatures, values of the deformation parameter, and numbers of colors 16 ≤ N ≤ 48. Using lattice computations, we analyze phase transitions in the model, observing a single first-order transition from a uniform to a gapped phase for all values of the deformation parameter. We study the functional form of the dependence of the critical temperature on the deformation parameter, to describe how our results smoothly interpolate between the limits of the bosonic BFSS model and the gauged Gaussian model.
Effects of isospin violation in the e+e− → B(*)$$ \overline{B} $$(*) cross sections
Authors: Bondar A. E. , Milstein A. I. , Mizuk R. V. , Salnikov S. G.
Published: May 2022

Abstract

Model estimates are obtained for the influence of Coulomb effects on the ratio of the cross sections for the production of charged and neutral B$$ \overline{B} $$

B
¯

and B*$$ \overline{B} $$

B
¯

* pairs in e+e− annihilation. It is shown that the difference between the masses of charged and neutral mesons obtained under the assumption that this ratio is constant on a scale of the order of the beam energy spread can differ from the true one by δM ∼ 0.03 MeV at the energy of Υ(5S) and by δM ∼ 0.4 MeV at the energy of Υ(4S). Thus, the errors given in the PDG for the difference between the masses of charged and neutral B mesons, based on the results obtained at the energy of Υ(4S), are strongly underestimated. Similar measurements at the energy of Υ(5S) will have an order of magnitude smaller systematic shift for the mass difference. This circumstance should be taken into account when planning future experiments at the B factory in KEK.
Word embeddings are biased. But whose bias are they reflecting?
Authors: Petreski Davor , Hashim Ibrahim C.
Published: May 2022

From Curriculum Vitae parsing to web search and recommendation systems, Word2Vec and other word embedding techniques have an increasing presence in everyday interactions in human society. Biases, such as gender bias, have been thoroughly researched and evidenced to be present in word embeddings. Most of the research focuses on discovering and mitigating gender bias within the frames of the vector space itself. Nevertheless, whose bias is reflected in word embeddings has not yet been investigated. Besides discovering and mitigating gender bias, it is also important to examine whether a feminine or a masculine-centric view is represented in the biases of word embeddings. This way, we will not only gain more insight into the origins of the before mentioned biases, but also present a novel approach to investigating biases in Natural Language Processing systems. Based on previous research in the social sciences and gender studies, we hypothesize that masculine-centric, otherwise known as androcentric, biases are dominant in word embeddings. To test this hypothesis we used the largest English word association test data set publicly available. We compare the distance of the responses of male and female participants to cue words in a word embedding vector space. We found that the word embedding is biased towards a masculine-centric viewpoint, predominantly reflecting the worldviews of the male participants in the word association test data set. Therefore, by conducting this research, we aimed to unravel another layer of bias to be considered when examining fairness in algorithms.
A level set-based topology optimization approach for thermally radiating structures
Authors: Cohen Brian S. , March Andrew I. , Willcox Karen E. , Miller David W.
Published: May 2022

The need for efficient thermally radiating structures is apparent in many aerospace system designs including satellites, launch vehicles, and hypersonic aircraft. This paper presents a novel level set-based topology optimization approach for designing thermally efficient radiating structures. In this paper, we derive a shape sensitivity of the thermal heat power radiated objective function using the adjoint method. This sensitivity is a necessary ingredient for our gradient-based algorithm. We apply an augmented Lagrangian method to solve an example 2D problem where the goal is to maximize heat power rejected subject to a material volume constraint. The radiating surface is kept fixed during the optimization to maintain a design-independent boundary condition, while the conducting region is optimized. Several solutions are illustrated with varying initial conditions. We also present a case study indicating that maximizing the thermal compliance functional is not sufficient for solving this class of problems.
Posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with independent internal brace reinforcement: surgical technique and clinical outcomes with a minimum two year follow-up
Authors: Zhao Xin , Duan Ming Yi , Chen Si Qi , Wang Junyuan , Li Wenxuan , Lv Yuhang , Zhang Hang Zhou
Published: May 2022

Purpose

We developed an augmentation technique for PCL reconstruction with independent internal brace reinforcement and evaluated the functional outcome after PCL reconstruction employing autologous hamstrings augmented with an internal brace system for patients with isolated or combined grade 3 posterior instability who were treated with this technique.

Methods

From January 2016 to January 2018, patients with isolated or combined grade 3 PCL tears who underwent single-bundle PCL reconstruction using autologous hamstrings augmented with independent internal braces were studied. The function of the operated knee was evaluated according to the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Lysholm score, and Tegner activity score. The patients were asked the level of returned to their previous sport. Posterior knee laxity was examined with a KT-1000 arthrometer, and data on range of motion (ROM), re-operation, and other complications were collected.

Results

A total of 33 consecutive patients who received single-bundle PCL reconstruction using autologous hamstrings augmented with independent internal braces with a minimum two years follow-up were included in this study. Two patients had undergone this procedure during the study period and were not included in this study (one had combined bone fractures, and one patient had previous meniscus surgery). Thirty-one patients were available for final analysis. The mean follow-up was 45.35 ± 10.88 months (range 29–66 months). The average IKDC subjective knee evaluation scores from 51.65 ± 12.35 to 84.52 ± 6.42, the Lysholm score from 53.90 ± 11.86 to 85.68 ± 4.99, and the Tegner score from 2.81 ± 0.79 to 6.71 ± 1.83 (P < 0.05 for all). The mean total posterior side-to-side difference in knee laxity, assessed using a KT-1000 arthrometer, decreased from 12.13 ± 2.66 mm pre-operatively to 1.87 ± 0.56 mm post-operatively at 70° (P < 0.05). Most patients (29/31) had normal or near normal knee ROM post-operatively; two patients revealed a 6–15° loss of knee flexion compared with the contralateral knee. Twenty-nine patients (93.55%) returned to a normal daily exercise level. Twenty-three patients (74.19%) returned to competitive sports with high-level sports (Tegner score of 6 or above; eleven patients (35.48%) reported to be on the same level as well as the Tegner level); six patients (19.35%) returned to recreational sports (Tegner score of 4 or 5). Two patients had Tegner scores of 2 and 3, indicating poor function level. No patient needed PCL revision surgery during the follow-up period.

Conclusion

Single-bundle PCL reconstruction with internal brace augmentation for PCL injury exhibited satisfactory posterior stability and clinical outcomes in patients with isolated or combined grade 3 PCL injuries at a minimum two year follow-up.
A New Risk Factor for Cervical Anastomotic Leakage‐Role of The Relative Gastric Length in the Surgical Treatment of Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Yao Peng , Zhang Ying , Li Gang , Zhuo Ze‐Guo , Xu Zhi‐Jie , Alai Gu‐Ha , Lin Yi‐Dan
Published: May 2022

Background

Blood supply is especially weak near the gastric fundus. Making the anastomosis in this area would increase the risk of anastomotic leakage (AL). In cervical anastomosis, the gastric conduit needs to travel through the thorax. Therefore, the relative length between the stomach and the thorax is an essential factor in deciding if the poorly supplied area could be removed. This study was to explore if a small relative gastric length was a risk of cervical AL. If all other conditions are equal, could intrathoracic anastomosis be a better choice?

Methods

Patients who underwent esophagectomy with a preoperative barium swallow in West China Hospital between 2014 and 2017 were included. The length of the greater curvature and the thorax were obtained from the barium esophagogram. The ratio between the length of the greater curvature and the thorax was the relative gastric length calculated from the greater curvature (RGL‐G).

Results

A total of 782 patients were enrolled in the final analysis. The cervical AL group had a significantly higher ratio of patients with an RGL‐G less than 1.3 (26.7% vs. 8.9%, p = 0.003). The multivariate logistic regression proved that RGL‐G less than 1.3 was a risk factor for cervical anastomotic leakage (p = 0.012). Correspondingly, RGL‐G less than 1.3 was not a risk factor (6.3% vs. 14.3%, p = 0.289) in the intrathoracic anastomosis group.

Conclusions

RGL‐G less than 1.3 was a new risk factor for cervical AL, but it would not be a problem for intrathoracic anastomosis.
The Effects of Methylene Blue and Carbon Nanoparticles on Transplanted Lymph Node Survival, Reconstructed Lymphatic Function, and Changes in Inflammatory and Fibrosis Factors
Authors: Wang Heng , Dong Dong , Liu Chi , Yuan Mingjie , Chen Liang , Liu Tianyi
Published: May 2022

Background and objectives

Methylene blue (MB) and carbon nanoparticles (CNs) can be used as a simple method for reverse lymphatic mapping. We investigated whether the two tracers had an impact on the survival of lymph nodes and the function of reconstructed lymph vessels after transplantation, as well as the changes in surrounding related factors.

Methods

The stained lymph nodes were non‐vascularized transplanted into the contralateral popliteal fossa in mice. After 4 weeks, the lymphatic recanalization was detected. The samples were harvested for pathological detection and PCR. In addition, the transport ability of the recanalized lymphatics to tumor cells was also explored.

Results

Compared with the control group, there was no significant difference of the MB and CNs groups in the drainage function of recanalized lymphatic vessels, the survival of lymph nodes, or the transport capacity to tumor cells. TNF‐α and IL‐6 were significantly higher in the two tracer groups (**p < 0.01). Besides, the α‐SMA was significantly increased in the CNs group (*p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Two tracers have no effect on the survival of transplanted lymph nodes, nor do they affect the drainage ability or tumor cell capture ability of the reconstructed lymphatics, despite improving TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels and the deposition of CNs.
Study Protocol: Adjuvant Holmium-166 Radioembolization After Radiofrequency Ablation in Early-Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients—A Dose-Finding Study (HORA EST HCC Trial)
Authors: Hendriks Pim , Rietbergen Daphne D. D. , van Erkel Arian R. , Coenraad Minneke J. , Arntz Mark J. , Bennink Roel J. , Braat Andries E. , Crobach A. Stijn L. P. , van Delden Otto M. , van der Hulle Tom , Klümpen Heinz-Josef , van der Meer Rutger W. , Nijsen J. Frank W. , van Rijswijk Carla S. P. , Roosen Joey , Ruijter Bastian N. , Smit Frits , Stam Mette K. , Takkenberg R. Bart , Tushuizen Maarten E. , van Velden Floris H. P. , de Geus-Oei Lioe-Fee , Burgmans Mark C. ,   Dutch Hepatocellular Cholangiocarcinoma Group
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To investigate the biodistribution of holmium-166 microspheres (166Ho-MS) when administered after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim is to establish a perfused liver administration dose that results in a tumoricidal dose of holmium-166 on the hyperaemic zone around the ablation necrosis (i.e. target volume).

Materials and Methods

This is a multicentre, prospective, dose-escalation study in HCC patients with a solitary lesion 2–5 cm, or a maximum of 3 lesions of ≤ 3 cm each. The day after RFA patients undergo angiography and cone-beam CT (CBCT) with (super)selective infusion of technetium-99 m labelled microalbumin aggregates (99mTc-MAA). The perfused liver volume is segmented from the CBCT and 166Ho-MS is administered to this treatment volume 5–10 days later. The dose of holmium-166 is escalated in a maximum of 3 patient cohorts (60 Gy, 90 Gy and 120 Gy) until the endpoint is reached. SPECT/CT is used to determine the biodistribution of holmium-166. The endpoint is met when a dose of ≥ 120 Gy has been reached on the target volume in 9/10 patients of a cohort. Secondary endpoints include toxicity, local recurrence, disease-free and overall survival.

Discussion

This study aims to find the optimal administration dose of adjuvant radioembolization with 166Ho-MS after RFA. Ultimately, the goal is to bring the efficacy of thermal ablation up to par with surgical resection for early-stage HCC patients.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT03437382.
Machine learning for optimized individual survival prediction in resectable upper gastrointestinal cancer
Authors: Jung Jin-On , Crnovrsanin Nerma , Wirsik Naita Maren , Nienhüser Henrik , Peters Leila , Popp Felix , Schulze André , Wagner Martin , Müller-Stich Beat Peter , Büchler Markus Wolfgang , Schmidt Thomas
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Surgical oncologists are frequently confronted with the question of expected long-term prognosis. The aim of this study was to apply machine learning algorithms to optimize survival prediction after oncological resection of gastroesophageal cancers.

Methods

Eligible patients underwent oncological resection of gastric or distal esophageal cancer between 2001 and 2020 at Heidelberg University Hospital, Department of General Surgery. Machine learning methods such as multi-task logistic regression and survival forests were compared with usual algorithms to establish an individual estimation.

Results

The study included 117 variables with a total of 1360 patients. The overall missingness was 1.3%. Out of eight machine learning algorithms, the random survival forest (RSF) performed best with a concordance index of 0.736 and an integrated Brier score of 0.166. The RSF demonstrated a mean area under the curve (AUC) of 0.814 over a time period of 10 years after diagnosis. The most important long-term outcome predictor was lymph node ratio with a mean AUC of 0.730. A numeric risk score was calculated by the RSF for each patient and three risk groups were defined accordingly. Median survival time was 18.8 months in the high-risk group, 44.6 months in the medium-risk group and above 10 years in the low-risk group.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that RSF is most appropriate to accurately answer the question of long-term prognosis. Furthermore, we could establish a compact risk score model with 20 input parameters and thus provide a clinical tool to improve prediction of oncological outcome after upper gastrointestinal surgery.