bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Properties and Components of Koenigia alpina Extract
Authors: Lee Kwan‐Woo , Mun Su‐Hyun , Kim Yeon‐A , Kim Hyo‐Rim , Jin Qinglong , Lee Min‐Ki , Park Soo Nam
Published: October 2024

Background

Koenigia alpina (All.) T.M.Schust. & Reveal (alpine knotweed) is a perennial herb belonging to the Polygonaceae family. Several studies have examined Polygonaceae species’ potential applications as cosmeceutical materials; however, the potential of K. alpina as a cosmeceutical has not yet been studied.

Materials and Methods

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and lipopolysaccharide were used to induce an inflammatory response in RAW 264.7 cells. 2,2‐Diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and H2O2 were used to evaluate the free‐radical scavenging activity of K. alpina extract and its protective effect against reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐induced cell damage. The whitening, antiaging, and cell proliferation/migration effects of the extracts were evaluated via tyrosinase inhibition, collagenase/elastase inhibition, and wound healing assays, respectively. The anti‐inflammatory effect was confirmed by evaluating nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW 264.7 cells. High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), UV, and MS/MS were used to determine the main components of the extract and fractions.

Results

The ethyl acetate (EA) fraction and its aglycone fraction showed very high free‐radical scavenging activities (47.5 and 47.1 µg/mL, respectively). The extract/fractions also showed significant tyrosinase inhibition (IC50 = 0.38 mg/mL in EA fraction), collagenase inhibition (IC50 = 0.21 mg/mL in EA fraction), and elastase inhibition (IC50 = 0.57 mg/mL in aglycone fraction). NO production in lipopolysaccharide‐induced RAW 264.7 cells was inhibited by the extract/fractions. The extract also promoted the closure of scratch wounds in HaCaT cells. The K. alpina extract/fractions contained cardamonin, quercetin, and quercitrin.

Conclusion

K. alpina extracts/fractions showed antioxidant, antiaging, whitening, and anti‐inflammatory activities, suggesting they may have potential as antiaging cosmeceuticals.
Synergistic Commutative Algorithm for Securing Vector Spatial Data via GD‐PBIBD Fingerprint Encoding and Data Encryption
Authors: Yan Qingbo , Yan Haowen , Zhang Liming
Published: October 2024

As a fundamental component that supports business connectivity and enables intelligent decision‐making, vector spatial data encounter increasing copyright and security challenges throughout their lifecycle. There is an imminent need for a comprehensive lifecycle protection solution to ensure data security and adherence to copyright laws. This study introduces an integrated protection scheme designed to address copyright and security issues across the entire lifecycle of vector spatial data. First, DNA encryption is applied to the vector spatial data, with the key subsequently encrypted using the RSA public key. Concurrently, GD‐PBIBD fingerprint encoding is used to generate a fingerprint sequence. Thereafter, this sequence is scrambled using logistic mapping, and a quantization mechanism embeds the scrambled fingerprint sequence into the coordinates. Subsequently, the RSA private key is used to decrypt the key and extract the fingerprint information. Finally, logistic mapping is employed to restore the fingerprint sequence, and Hamming distance calculations are used to identify colluding users and trace potential data leaks. Experimental studies indicate that the proposed DNA encryption algorithm is effective for various types of vector spatial data, including point, polyline, and polygon data. It features a large key space and high key sensitivity. Furthermore, the GD‐PBIBD fingerprint encoding is simple to construct, offers excellent imperceptibility, and provides robust resistance to both single‐ and multi‐user attacks. This research addresses the gap in full lifecycle copyright and security protection for vector spatial data and offers a holistic solution for secure data circulation, thereby demonstrating significant practical value.
Computed tomographic features of severe horn infection in a male Scimitar‐horned oryx (Oryx dammah)
Authors: Le Kayla , Riggs Victoria , Yap Seng Wai , Ernestova Martina , Sebastian Kimberley
Published: October 2024

A 3‐year‐old male Scimitar‐horned oryx presented for evaluation of an acutely deformed right horn with right head tilt and right facial pain. Computed tomographic evaluation revealed an increased volume of central fluid/soft tissue attenuation with gas‐attenuating foci within the right horn. The right horn was amputated at the right horn base. Imaging and histopathologic features were consistent with emphysematous osteomyelitis. Following treatment, the patient returned to normal behavior. This is the first veterinary report describing the computed tomographic features of a horn infection in a Scimitar‐horned oryx.
Radiographic findings in dogs with 360 degrees gastric dilatation and volvulus
Authors: Mur Pablo Espinosa , Appleby Ryan , Phillips Kathryn L. , Singh Ameet , Monteith Gabrielle , Gilmour Lindsey J. , Keenihan Erin , Daniaux Lise , Linden Alex zur
Published: October 2024

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is a life‐threatening emergency that requires urgent intervention. Radiographic features associated with 360‐GDV in dogs have not been investigated. The aim of this retrospective observational study is to describe radiographic features and clinical variables in dogs affected with 360‐GDV and to report agreement rates between different radiologists. We also report the sensitivity and specificity of radiographs to diagnose 360‐GDV in dogs. Confirmed 360‐GDV cases were retrieved, and the radiographic findings were compared with dogs presenting with gastric dilatation (GD) and 180‐GDV. Images were reviewed and graded by three blinded board‐certified radiologists. A total of 16 dogs with confirmed 360‐GDV were identified. The median age was 10 years old (2–13 years). The sensitivity for detection of 360‐GDV ranged between 43.7% and 50%, and the specificity between 84.6% and 92.1%. Interobserver agreement on final diagnosis was substantial (Kappa = 0.623; 0.487–0.760, 95% CI). The highest agreement rate was in cases of 180‐GDV (87%), followed by the GD cases (72%) and 360‐GDV (46%). Severe esophageal distension and absence of small intestinal dilation were the only radiographic features specifically associated with 360‐GDV. A similar pyloric position was found between GD and 360‐GDV. Additional radiographic variables that could help differentiate GD from 360‐GDV include the degree of gastric distension and the peritoneal serosal contrast. Two cases with 360‐GDV were misdiagnosed by the three radiologists as GD. In conclusion, radiographically, 360‐GDV cases can reassemble GD and vice versa. Radiologists and clinicians should be aware of the low sensitivity of radiographs for the detection of 360‐GDV.
Hedypnois rhagadioloides (Asteraceae; Cichorieae): An alien plant found at Busan New Port
Authors: KANG Eun Su , CHUNG Gyu Young , LEE Seong Won , SON Dong Chan
Published: October 2024

The alien plant Hedypnois rhagadioloides (L.) F. W. Schmidt was found at Busan New Port. The genus Hedypnois Mill, to which this species belongs, is a new record in the flora of the Republic of Korea; it is related to the genera Hypochaeris L. and Picris L. Hedypnois but can be distinctly distinguished from these two genera by its pappus, which consists of scale-like bristles. Additionally, during fruiting, plants of this genus exhibit an inflated and ridged peduncle, and its inner phyllaries become hardened, curved, and envelop the outer cypselae. The cypselae have shallow longitudinal ridges and scales on their surface. This study provides photographs of H. rhagadioloides along with descriptions of the genus and species, as well as identification keys based on morphological research.
Oriented Birkhoff sections of Anosov flows
Authors: Asaoka Masayuki , Bonatti Christian , Marty Théo
Published: October 2024

This paper gives three different proofs (independently obtained by the three authors) of the following fact: given an Anosov flow on an oriented 3‐manifold, the existence of a positive Birkhoff section is equivalent to the fact that the flow is ‐covered positively twisted.
MgAlTi-LDH/gCN heterocomposites analyzed by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Benedet Mattia , Rizzi Gian Andrea , Marín Laura , Pavlovic Ivana , Sánchez Luis , Barreca Davide , Maccato Chiara
Published: October 2024

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and graphitic carbon nitride (gCN) are burgeoning multifunctional materials that have attracted a considerable interest as heterogeneous catalysts for environmental remediation. In the present work, we report on the x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy characterization of a representative MgAlTi-LDH/gCN heterocomposite, obtained by a simple mixing of single powdered constituents. Monochromated Al Kα radiation (1486.6 eV) was used as the source of x-ray excitation to acquire both wide-scan spectra and high-resolution signals of the principal element core levels. The main spectral features of the target system are critically examined and discussed in relation to the data related to the pristine MgAlTi-LDH. The obtained results highlight the occurrence of an electronic interplay between the single material constituents, anticipating an enhanced separation of photogenerated charge carriers and an improved activity for photocatalytic applications. The present reported data will serve as comparison for LDH-based materials obtained under various processing conditions for different end-uses.
“It’s Like This One Man’s Baby”: Gender and Decision-Making Power in Sport for Development and Peace Organizations
Authors: Piggott Lucy V.
Published: October 2024

Within this article, the author draws on Rao et al.’s theory of the deep structure of organizations to analyze the extent to which decision-making power across sport for development and peace organizations is gender inclusive. Findings from interviews with women and men leaders indicate that decision-making power across the organizations is inclusive to women, with women holding positional power and having a voice to influence. However, the author emphasizes that caution must be taken in claiming that such decision-making power is fully gender inclusive. This is because “women” in positions of power mostly represent privileged profiles, and men hold the most powerful positions. These findings are strongly linked to the origin stories of the organizations, with all having men (co)founders. The gendered implications of such men-dominated organizational histories were found to span both inward- and outward-facing organizational elements and were reported to be difficult to challenge.
Why biodiversity matters in agriculture and food systems
Authors: Elouafi Ismahane
Published: October 2024

Imagine a world where the variety of food sources we rely on is reduced to a mere handful of species. This is not a dystopian future. It’s the path we are on right now, and it’s happening silently in fields, farms, and forests across the globe. Biodiversity—the lifeblood of our ecosystems and food systems—is under siege. Driven by climate change, habitat destruction, and the relentless march of agricultural expansion, we are witnessing an unprecedented erosion of genetic diversity. This loss is more than just a scientific or environmental concern; it’s a direct threat to global food security, and by extension, human survival.
In Other Journals
Authors: Jiang Di , McCartney Melissa , Szuromi Phil , Ross Sarah H. , Ray L. Bryan , Ash Caroline , Smith Keith T.
Published: October 2024

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
Physics award honors pioneers in artificial intelligence
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: October 2024

Models based in statistical physics led to today’s neural networks that power chatbots and self-driving cars
Multisite community-scale monitoring of respiratory and enteric viruses in the effluent of a nursing home and in the inlet of the local wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Manoha Catherine , Dequiedt Anne-Laure , Thery Lucie , Marotel Marina , Pez Floriane , Vouillon Bruno , Gueneau Eric , de Rougemont Alexis
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether community-level monitoring of respiratory and enteric viruses in wastewater can provide a comprehensive picture of local virus circulation. Wastewater samples were collected weekly at the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) inlet and at the outlet of a nearby nursing home (NH) in Burgundy, France, during the winter period of 2022/2023. We searched for the pepper mild mottle virus as an indicator of fecal content as well as for the main respiratory viruses [severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus] and enteric viruses (rotavirus, sapovirus, norovirus, astrovirus, and adenovirus). Samples were analyzed using real-time reverse transcription PCR-based methods. SARS-CoV-2 was the most frequently detected respiratory virus, with 66.7% of positive samples from the WWTP and 28.6% from the NH. Peaks of SARS-CoV-2 were consistent with the chronological incidence of infections recorded in the sentinel surveillance and the nearby hospital databases. The number of positive samples was lower in the NH than in WWTP for the three respiratory viruses. Enteric viruses were frequently detected, most often sapovirus and norovirus genogroup II, accounting both for 77.8% of positive samples in the WWTP and 57.1% and 37%, respectively, in the NH. The large circulation of sapovirus was unexpected in particular in the NH. Combined wastewater surveillance using simple optimized methods can be a valuable tool for monitoring viral circulation and may serve as a suitable early warning system for identifying both local outbreaks and the onset of epidemics. These results encourage the application of wastewater-based surveillance (WBS) to SARS-CoV2, norovirus, and sapovirus.

IMPORTANCE

WBS provides valuable information on the spread of epidemic viruses in the environment using appropriate and sensitive detection methods. By monitoring the circulation of viruses using reverse transcription PCR methods in wastewater from the inlet of a wastewater treatment plant and the outlet of a nearby retirement home (connected to the same collective sewer network), we aimed to demonstrate that implementing combined WBS at key community sites allows effective detection of the occurrence of respiratory (influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and SARS-CoV-2) and enteric (norovirus, rotavirus, and sapovirus) virus infections within a given population. This analysis on a localized scale provided new information on the viral circulation in the two different sites. Implementing WBS to monitor the circulation or the emergence of infectious diseases is an important means of alerting the authorities and improving public health management. WBS could participate actively to the health of humans, animals, and the environment.
The mammary glands of cows abundantly display receptors for circulating avian H5 viruses
Authors: Ríos Carrasco María , Gröne Andrea , van den Brand Judith M. A. , de Vries Robert P.
Published: October 2024

Influenza A viruses (IAVs) from the H5N1 2.3.4.4b clade are circulating in dairy farms in the USA.; ruminants were presumed not to be hosts for IAVs. Previously, IAV-positive mammalian species were hunters and scavengers, possibly getting infected while feeding on infected birds. It is now recognized that H5N1 viruses that circulate in US dairy cattle transmit through a mammary gland route, in contrast to transmission by aerosols via the respiratory tract. The sialome in the cow mammary and respiratory tract is so far solely defined using plant lectins. Here, we used recombinant HA proteins representing current circulating and classical H5 viruses to determine the distribution of IAV receptors in the respiratory and mammary tract tissues of cows. We complemented our study by mapping the glycan distribution of the upper and lower respiratory tracts of horses and pigs. Most of the sialome of the cow respiratory tract is lined with sialic acid modifications, such as N-glycolyl and O-acetyl, which are not bound by IAV. Interestingly, the H5 protein representing the cow isolates is bound significantly in the mammary gland, whereas classical H5 proteins failed to do so. Furthermore, whereas the 9-O-acetyl modification is prominent in all tissues tested, the 5-N-glycolyl modification is not, resulting in the display of receptors for avian IAV hemagglutinins. This could explain the high levels of virus found in these tissues and milk, adding supporting data to this virus transmission route.

IMPORTANCE

H5N1 influenza viruses, which usually affect birds, have been found on dairy farms in the USA. Surprisingly, these viruses are spreading among dairy cows, and there is a possibility that they do not spread through the air but through their milk glands. To understand this better, we studied how the virus attaches to tissues in the cow’s respiratory tract and mammary glands using specific viral proteins. We found that the cow-associated virus binds strongly to the mammary glands, unlike older versions infecting birds. This might explain why the virus is found in cow’s milk, suggesting a new way the virus could be spreading.
Adaptations and metabolic evolution of myzozoan protists across diverse lifestyles and environments
Authors: Waller Ross F. , Carruthers Vern B.
Published: October 2024

Myzozoans encompass apicomplexans and dinoflagellates that manifest diverse lifestyles in highly varied environments. They show enormous propensity to employ different metabolic programs and exploit different nutrient resources and niches, and yet, they share much core biology that underlies this evolutionary success and impact. This review discusses apicomplexan parasites of medical significance and the traits and properties they share with non-pathogenic myzozoans. These include the versatility of myzozoan plastids, which scale from fully photosynthetic organelles to the site of very select key metabolic pathways. Pivotal evolutionary innovations, such as the apical complex, have allowed myzozoans to shift from predatory to parasitic and other symbiotic lifestyles multiple times in both apicomplexan and dinoflagellate branches of the myzozoan evolutionary tree. Such traits, along with shared mechanisms for nutrient acquisition, appear to underpin the prosperity of myzozoans in their varied habitats. Understanding the mechanisms of these shared traits has the potential to spawn new strategic interventions against medically and veterinary relevant parasites within this grouping.
Supplemental Material: Zinc isotope perspective on global carbon cycling during the onset of the late Paleozoic icehouse
Authors: Zhong Yutian , al. et
Published: October 2024

 Detailed description of geological background, stratigraphic correlation, analytical methods, and data evaluation, Figures S1–S9, and Tables S1–S4.  
3D Ordered Li Anode Architectures towards Suppressing Li Dendrites: A Review
Authors: Fei Pei  , Yan Xin’e , Lei Fangchao , Liu Longgang , Yao Songyuan
Published: October 2024

The fast-growing requirements for high-energy-density Li-ion batteries (LIBs) have prompted the research and development of Li-metal batteries (LMBs) because Li metal has a high theoretical specific capacity of 3860 mA h g–1 and a low redox potential (−3.04 v.s. standard hydrogen electrode, SHE). However, the dendrite formation of Li metal during Li plating and stripping has exerted an enormous impedance in its commercial application. Consequently, it is imperative to exploit effective strategies to eliminate the existing issues. Three-dimensional (3D) ordered Li anode architectures with large surface area and void space, which are capable of lowering the surface current density and affording confined space to accommodate Li plating, consequently suppressing Li dendrite formation and ameliorating undesirable volume changes. More importantly, its well-aligned micro-channels can provide fast pathways for Li ion transport and promote uniform Li plating. Therefore, fabricating 3D ordered architectures is expected to remarkably boost the electrochemical stability and performance of Li anode during cycling. Herein, the important researches on the design of 3D ordered Li anode architectures for LIBs, including flexible anode, are summarized in detail. Emphasis is laid on illuminating the mechanism and the correlation between the 3D-ordered Li microstructures and the electrochemical performance of the LMBs. Furthermore, challenges and forthcoming opportunities in this promising research field are explicitly indicated. It is anticipated that this review could afford a beneficial reference to initiate further innovation in research and development of practical 3D Li anode for high-energy and safe LMBs.
Application of Kolcaba’s Comfort Theory in healthcare promoting adults’ comfort: a scoping review
Authors: Lin Yanxia , Zhou Yi , Chen Can , Yan Chuchu , Gu Junyi
Published: October 2024

Background

Comfort is a primary goal of healthcare. Theory-informed interventions and measurement are essential for comfort enhancement.

Objectives

To categorise and synthesise the international literature on the application of Kolcaba’s Comfort Theory in research and practice aiming to promote adults’ comfort.

Eligibility criteria

Papers reporting the application of Kolcaba’s Comfort Theory on adult participants published in English and Chinese.

Sources of evidence

MEDLINE, CINAHL, APA PsycInfo, Embase, AMED, Web of Science, Scopus, The Cochrane Library, JBI EBP Database, CNKI, Wan Fang; grey literature of Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar and The Comfort Line were searched from January 1991 to January 2024.

Chart methods

Following the Joanna Briggs Institute guidance and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist, two reviewers selected papers and extracted data independently using a standardised chart embedded in NVivo software. A thematic synthesis and a descriptive analysis were provided.

Results

The review included 359 papers. Approximately two-thirds (n=216, 60.2%) had been published since 2017. The majority of papers (n=316, 88.0%) originated from China, the USA, Turkey, Brazil and Portugal. The use of Kolcaba’s Comfort Theory was dominated in a range of hospital settings (n=263) and with participants suffering neoplasms (n=55). Seven categories of theory application were identified: (I) interventions underpinned by Comfort Theory as the theoretical framework, (II) interventions evaluated by instruments derived from Comfort Theory, (III) descriptive or observational studies of services or practices underpinned by Comfort Theory, (IV) surveys using questionnaires derived from Comfort Theory, (V) questionnaires development or adaption based on Comfort Theory, (VI) qualitative studies interpreted by Comfort Theory and (VII) literature reviews and discussion about Comfort Theory use. The most commonly evaluated interventions included music therapy (n=31), position intervention (n=20) and massage (n=19), and the most commonly used questionnaire was General Comfort Questionnaire (n=109).

Conclusions

Kolcaba’s Comfort Theory has been largely used in interventions and assessments across a wide range of contexts, providing a set of options for practitioners. However, quantifying evidence is needed through further systematic reviews, and continuous development of Comfort Theory is warranted based on the categorisation by this review.
Describing youth participatory evaluation of educational interventions as a key domain of the social determinants of health: protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Montrosse-Moorhead Bianca , Sutter Amanda , Phiri Chisomo , De La Cruz Perdomo Luna
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Youth participatory evaluationis one model for monitoring global outcomes and assessing interventions to improve young people’s health equity and well-being while embracing principles of participation and empowerment. Little is known about the use of this approach in practise. This scoping review will identify and synthesise descriptions of howyouth participatory evaluationis enacted, to what extent it occurs, and describe the relationship between context and inclusion.

Methods and analysis

Scoping review methods will adhere to those outlined by Arksey and O’Malley. The study will also follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews. The review will use publicly available evaluation reports (grey literature) for programmes funded by the US National Science Foundation through the Advancing Informal science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) Learning programme and whose reports are archived in the repository hosted by the Reimagining Equity and Values in Informal STEM education (REVISE) Center. This scoping review is limited to education, one of the domains of the social determinants of health, more precisely STEM education, due to the report publication parameters set by the REVISE Center repository. A research team member will download citations for and PDFs of reports. These citations and reports will be managed using Zotero and exported to Covidence, a web-based program designed to manage systematic and scoping reviews. Evaluation report selection will occur in a two-step process by trained coders with clear criteria. Inclusion criteria will include: (1) report is for an evaluation study; (2) evaluation has a focus on young people, aged 10–24; (3) evaluation is for a programme serving young people, aged 10–24; and (4) report written and uploaded to the REVISE Center repository between 2017 and 2022. All reports hosted on the REVISE Center repository are based in the USA and written in English. Data charting will also be done by trained coders and facilitated by Covidence and a codebook. Several procedures will be used to uphold rigour and consistency during this process. Data analysis will be done with Dedoose.

Ethics and dissemination

Human subjects research approval will not be required. This scoping review will rely on publicly available evaluation reports. No human research participants will be involved in this review. Findings will be shared through dissemination strategies, such as peer-reviewed journals, international and national conferences, and social media affiliated with academic institutions and professional associations.

Study registration

This study is preregistered on Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/23jdx/). Registration DOI:https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/K6J98.
Correlation of the treatment sensitivity of patient-derived organoids with treatment outcomes in patients with head and neck cancer (SOTO): protocol for a prospective observational study
Authors: Vasiliadou Ifigenia , Cattaneo Christiana , Chan Phoebe Yuen Ka , Henley-Smith Rhonda , Gregson-Williams Harry , Collins Lisette , Wojewodka Gabriella , Guerrero-Urbano Teresa , Jeannon Jean-Pierre , Connor Steve , Davis Jessica , Pasto Anna , Mustapha Rami , Ng Tony , Kong Anthony
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Organoids have been successfully used in several areas of cancer research and large living biobanks of patient-derived organoids (PDOs) have been developed from various malignancies. The characteristics of the original tumour tissue such as mutation signatures, phenotype and genetic diversity are well preserved in organoids, thus showing promising results for the use of this model in translational research. In this study, we aim to assess whether we can generate PDOs from head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) samples and whether PDOs can be used to predict treatment sensitivity in HNSCC patients as well as to explore potential biomarkers.

Methods and analysis

This is a prospective observational study at a single centre (Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust) to generate PDOs from patients’ samples to assess treatment response and to correlate with patients’ treatment outcomes. Patients will be included if they are diagnosed with HNSCC undergoing curative treatment (primary surgery or radiotherapy) or presenting with recurrent or metastatic cancers and they will be categorised into three groups (cohort 1: primary surgery, cohort 2: primary radiotherapy and cohort 3: recurrent/metastatic disease). Research tumour samples will be collected and processed into PDOs and chemosensitivity/radiosensitivity will be assessed using established methods. Moreover, blood and other biological samples (eg, saliva) will be collected at different time intervals during treatment and will be processed in the laboratory for plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) isolation. Plasma and saliva will be used for circulating tumour DNA analysis and PBMC will be stored for assessment of the peripheral immune characteristics of the patients as well as to perform co-culture experiments with PDOs. SOTO study (correlation of the treatment Sensitivity of patient-derived Organoids with Treatment Outcomes in patients with head and neck cancer) uses the collaboration of several specialties in head and neck cancer and has the potential to explore multiple areas of research with the aim of offering a valid and effective approach to personalised medicine for cancer patients.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by North West-Greater Manchester South Research Ethics Committee (REC Ref: 22/NW/0023) on 21 March 2022. An informed consent will be obtained from all participants prior to inclusion in the study. Results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications and presentations at international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT05400239
.
Endoscopic sphincterotomy to prevent post-ERCP pancreatitis after self-expandable metal stent placement for distal malignant biliary obstruction (SPHINX): a multicentre, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Onnekink Anke M , Gorris Myrte , Bekkali Noor LH , Bos Philip , Didden Paul , Dominguez-Muñoz J Enrique , Friederich Pieter , van Halsema Emo E , Hazen Wouter L , van Huijgevoort Nadine C , Inderson Akin , Jacobs Maarten AJM , Koornstra Jan J , Kuiken Sjoerd , Scheffer Bob CH , Sloterdijk Hilbert , van Soest Ellert J , Venneman Niels G , Voermans Rogier P , de Wijkerslooth Thomas R , Wonders Janneke , Zoutendijk Roeland , Zweers Serge JLB , Fockens Paul , Verdonk Robert C , van Wanrooij Roy L J , Van Hooft Jeanin E
Published: October 2024

Background

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with fully covered self-expandable metal stent (FCSEMS) placement is the preferred approach for biliary drainage in patients with suspected distal malignant biliary obstruction (MBO). However, FCSEMS placement is associated with a high risk of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). Endoscopic sphincterotomy prior to FCSEMS placement may reduce PEP risk.

Objective

To compare endoscopic sphincterotomy to no sphincterotomy prior to FCSEMS placement.

Design

This multicentre, randomised, superiority trial was conducted in 17 hospitals and included patients with suspected distal MBO. Patients were randomised during ERCP to receive either endoscopic sphincterotomy (sphincterotomy group) or no sphincterotomy (control group) prior to FCSEMS placement. The primary outcome was PEP within 30 days. Secondary outcomes included procedure-related complications and 30-day mortality. An interim analysis was performed after 50% of patients (n=259) had completed follow-up.

Results

Between May 2016 and June 2023, 297 patients were included in the intention-to-treat analysis, with 156 in the sphincterotomy group and 141 in the control group. After the interim analysis, the study was terminated prematurely due to futility. PEP did not differ between groups, occurring in 26 patients (17%) in the sphincterotomy group compared with 30 patients (21%) in the control group (relative risk 0.78, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.26, p=0.37). There were no significant differences in bleeding, perforation, cholangitis, cholecystitis or 30-day mortality.

Conclusion

This trial found that endoscopic sphincterotomy was not superior to no sphincterotomy in reducing PEP in patients with distal MBO. Therefore, there was insufficient evidence to recommend routine endoscopic sphincterotomy prior to FCEMS placement.

Trial registration number

NL5130.
Multicenter clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy using the Versi Retriever
Authors: Ohara Nobuyuki , Imamura Hirotoshi , Satow Tetsu , Yamagami Hiroshi , Yoshimura Shinichi , Horie Nobutaka , Ishii Akira , Fujinaka Toshiyuki , Matsumoto Yasushi , Tsumoto Tomoyuki , Kohyama Shinya , Matsumaru Yuji , Iihara Koji , Kuwayama Naoya , Hirano Teruyuki , Ito Yasushi , Yamamoto Haruko , Nagai Yoji , Sakai Chiaki , Sakai Nobuyuki
Published: October 2024

Background

This study aimed to elucidate the safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy using the Versi Retriever in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods

This was a prospective, multicenter, single-arm study conducted at 10 institutes in Japan from December 2018 to March 2021 on mechanical thrombectomy using the Versi Retriever in patients with AIS. The primary efficacy outcome was the modified Rankin scale (mRS) 0–2 at 90 days after the procedure. The primary safety outcome was mortality within 90 days after the procedure.

Results

Fifty-eight patients with a mean age of 72.7 years were enrolled in the study. The primary efficacy outcome of mRS 0–2 at 90 days was 62.0% (95% CI 47.2–75.3%) in patients within 8 hours of stroke onset. The rate of immediate reperfusion of Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) grade 2b-3 using the Versi Retriever in three passes was 78.0% (64.0–88.5%). The rate of final reperfusion of TICI 2b-3 was 100% (92.9–100%). The primary safety outcome of mortality within 90 days was 8.0% (2.2–19.2%) in patients within 8 hours of AIS onset. The incidence of intracranial hemorrhage within 24 hours was 12.0% (4.5–24.3%) for symptomatic cases and 32.0% (19.5–46.7%) for asymptomatic cases.

Conclusion

The Versi Retriever proved to be a safe and effective option for mechanical thrombectomy in patients with AIS.
Long-term outcomes and quality of life in patients with Hirschsprung disease
Authors: Pakarinen Mikko P , Mutanen Annika
Published: October 2024

Although patients with Hirschsprung disease are mostly affected by imperfect bowel function and fecal control in the long term, they are also predisposed to lower urinary tract symptoms, impaired sexual functions, infertility, psychosocial issues, and decreased quality of life. Rare, but notable comorbidities, which may manifest after childhood, include inflammatory bowel disease and familial medullary thyroid cancer. Despite frequent occurrence of fecal incontinence and constipation, the overall long-term outlook is quite optimistic as social continence with a good quality of life can be achieved by efficient bowel management also in those affected patients, whose self-coping strategies and medical treatment remain insufficient. Bowel dysfunction and other potential long-term complications are best managed by an interdisciplinary specialized approach not overlooking psychosocial issues, which also helps to correctly identify areas requiring continuing input by adult healthcare for young adult patients after transition. Additional research is needed to unravel the pathophysiological mechanisms of the long-term bowel dysfunction to identify novel therapeutic targets for development of more efficient innovative management strategies and thereby improvement of quality of life.
Tracing recent large herbivore influence on soil carbon in permafrost and seasonally frozen Arctic ground using lipid biomarkers: a pilot study
Authors: Windirsch Torben , Mangelsdorf Kai , Grosse Guido , Wolter Juliane , Jongejans Loeka L. , Strauss Jens
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the impact of large herbivores on soil organic matter (OM) stability in Arctic permafrost and seasonally frozen ground ecosystems, focusing on the potential preservation effect of grazing. Soil samples were collected from Siberian and Finnish permafrost and nonpermafrost areas and organic carbon content, carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, stable carbon isotopes as well as the content of n-alkanes and n-alcohols were analysed to assess OM stability. The results suggest that grazing activity, particularly in permafrost environments, preserves soil OM by reducing decomposition. Permafrost soils exhibit higher functionalized to nonfunctionalized biomarker ratios, indicating in general better preservation under frozen conditions. While differences in grazing intensities had minor effects, the data also showed variability due to soil heterogeneity, especially in seasonally frozen ground ecosystems. Nevertheless, there are slight trends toward enhanced OM preservation with increasing grazing intensity, especially in permafrost, emphasising the potential role of grazing in locally preserving Arctic soil OM. This pilot study offers initial insights into the impact of large herbivores on OM stability in cold-region ecosystems, suggesting that significant effects may require prolonged, intensive grazing pressure.
Island in warped AdS black holes
Authors: Anand Ankit
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the Page curve in warped anti-de Sitter black holes using the “quantum extremal surface” prescription. The findings reveal that in the absence of an island, the entanglement entropy of Hawking radiation grows proportionally with time and becomes divergent at later times. However, when considering the island’s emergence, which extends slightly beyond the event horizon, the growth of the entanglement entropy of Hawking radiation comes to a constant value. Eventually, the constant value is precisely twice the Bekenstein–Hawking entropy. We have also discussed the Page time and the scrambling time.
Evolving wormhole formation in dRGT massive gravity
Authors: Dutta Ayanendu , Roy Dhritimalya , Chakraborty Subenoy
Published: October 2024

In this study, we have examined the evolving wormhole solution within Einstein-massive gravity, considering traceless, barotropic and anisotropic pressure fluids. We have conducted a comprehensive analysis of the constraints imposed by the constants derived from the wormhole solution. It is found that the wormhole throat, situated between two asymptotic universes, undergoes simultaneous expansion with acceleration. A detailed investigation of the energy conditions for traceless, barotropic, and anisotropic fluids suggests a wide range of possibilities for evolving wormhole configurations with nonexotic matter at the throat. The dependency of this feature on the various parameters arising from the study has also been examined.
Application of Resonance Method in Composite Fault Diagnosis of Bearings
Authors: Ma Qiang , Tian Long , Wei Zhuopei , Li Zepeng
Published: October 2024

Poisson white noise is a more accurate representation than ideal Gaussian white noise for simulating the noise background during early bearing failures. In the context of strong Poisson white noise interference, the failure mode of rolling bearings usually remains undetermined. This paper proposes a new method for diagnosing unknown bearing faults in bearings, diagnosis is proposed, which effectively identifies unknown faults across various components. The theoretical characteristics of Poisson white noise are initially analyzed and discussed. Then, to extract potential fault characteristic information, a false characteristic frequency of bearing is constructed in the response spectrum, and the response results at this false fault characteristic are obtained. Finally, coherent resonance (CR) is introduced, and false frequencies caused by false faults are eliminated by defining a quality factor. To verify the effectiveness of the method, the experimental and simulation results were compared with the decomposition results of the SVMD algorithm. The SNR of the experimental signals for outer and inner ring faults under variable speed conditions increased to 8.62[Formula: see text]dB and 11.74[Formula: see text]dB, respectively. Results indicate show that this method not only successfully identifies fault features, but also exhibits a strong noise reduction effect.
Comparison of clustering methods in determining gold mineralization anomalies in the Janja area, Iran
Authors: Ebdali Mohammad , Hezarkhani Ardeshir
Published: October 2024

The Janja region is located 30 kilometres NW of Sefidabeh city in Sistan and Baluchistan province, Iran. Considering the evidence of gold mineralization, it is necessary to identify the promising mineral areas in this region. Clustering is an important method in data mining science, and it is used to analyse and examine a significant amount of data with various characteristics. The purpose of this research is to investigate the ability of clustering methods to determine gold anomaly areas in the studied area and to compare the performances of each method. Hence, the K-Means and K-Medoids clustering algorithms have been used to investigate the behaviour of gold and copper elements towards each other. For this purpose, first, the number of clusters was changed from
k
 = 3 to
k
 = 11 and then the optimal number of clusters was obtained using the Davies–Bouldin, Silhouette and Calinski–Harabasz criteria. According to the results obtained, it can be said that both methods for estimating the gold grade are suitable and effective methods due to the high correlation coefficient. Also, the widely used K-Nearest Neighbour (KNN) method was used under the grade values of gold, silver, copper, lead and zinc in order to simulate and determine promising areas of gold mineralization. The results show that the KNN method has been effective for finding gold anomalies with proper performance.
A Survey on Architectures, Hardware Acceleration and Challenges for In-Network Computing
Authors: Nickel Matthias , Göhringer Diana
Published: October 2024

By moving data and computation away from the end user to more powerful servers in the cloud or to cloudlets at the edge, end user devices only need to compute locally for small amounts of data and when low latency is required. However, with the advent of 6G and Internet-of-Everything, the demand for more powerful networks continues to grow. The introduction of Software-Defined Networking and Network Function Virtualization has allowed us to rethink networks and use them for more than just routing data to servers. In addition, the use of more powerful network devices is bringing new life to the concept of active networks in the form of in-network computing. In-Network Computing provides the ability to move applications into the network and process data on programmable network devices as they are transmitted. In this work, we provide an overview of in-network computing and its enabling technologies. We take a look at the programmability and different hardware architectures for SmartNICs and switches, focusing primarily on accelerators such as FPGAs. We discuss the state of the art and challenges in this area, and look at CGRAs, a class of hardware accelerators that have not been widely discussed in this context.
Comparison of awake respiratory control versus sleep obstructive sleep apnea endotypes
Authors: Wang David , Martins Rodrigo T. , Rowsell Luke , Wong Keith K. , Yee Brendon J. , Grunstein Ronald R. , Eckert Danny J.
Published: October 2024

Both awake ventilatory control measures and OSA endotypes measured during sleep have reported potentials in endotyping/phenotyping OSA, although no randomized, controlled trial has compared/linked between the two techniques. From a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled crossover trial, we found that awake measures of respiratory control are related to physiological endotypes such as airway collapsibility and arousal threshold during sleep and OSA severity. Awake ventilatory chemosensitivity has the best potential to predict changes in OSA severity with morphine.
Ureteric Stone Management in Crossed‐Fused Renal Ectopia With Bilateral Duplex‐Collecting System
Authors: Elmogassabi Abdoulhafid , Gul Tawiz , Tallai Bela , Alrayashi Maged , Abdelkareem Mohamed , Ibrahim Mohammed , Baker Abu , Ebrahim Mohammed , Alnawasra Hossameldin , Alhabash Salvan , Salah Morshed
Published: October 2024

Crossed‐fused renal ectopia (CFRE) is a rare congenital anomaly where both kidneys are fused on the same side. We report a case of a 52‐year‐old male patient who presented with central abdominal pain associated with hematuria and dysuria, with a history of left open ureterolithotomy. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) showed an 18‐mm left distal ureteric stone and a CFRE with a bilateral duplex‐collecting system. Left ureteroscopy and laser lithotripsy with magnetic double‐J stent insertion were carried out successfully, and the patient was discharged on the same day in fair general condition.
Hematological and Physiological Changes in Rainbow Trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, Exposed for 30 Days to Critical Low Temperature
Authors: Lahnsteiner Franz , Dünser Anna
Published: October 2024

Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) acclimated to 9°C were exposed to 1.8 ± 1.0°C water for 30 days. Survival rate decreased by 8%, and RNA expression of the heat shock protein heatshock protein 90 (hsp90) gene was upregulated, indicating thermal stress. The fish exhibited no growth but lost weight (daily growth rate −0.17% ± 0.03%). This was not due to depletion of energy reserves, as liver glycogen, liver triglycerides, and visceral fat levels remained unchanged. The growth hormone receptor 1 (ghr1) gene, encoding a growth hormone receptor, and the ATP synthase membrane subunit f (atp5j2) gene, encoding a component of mitochondrial ATP synthase, were downregulated, suggesting a reduced metabolic rate. Hematological investigations revealed the following results: Immune activity was suppressed, evidenced by decreased numbers of granulocytes, lymphocytes, thrombocytes, and total immunoglobulin levels. Serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase activities increased by 90% and 230%, respectively, indicating disturbance in liver functions. Adaptations to the cold included changes in erythrocyte morphology and blood hemoglobin concentration. Erythrocyte cell volume increased by 15%, cytoplasm volume by 10%, nucleus volume by 5%, and cell surface area by 7%, with a concurrent rise in hemoglobin content. These changes likely represent adaptations to altered metabolic demands. Concentrations of blood erythrocytes, erythroblasts, serum Na+, K+, Cl−, and activities of lactate dehydrogenase, lysozyme, and the alternative complement pathway remained consistent between the two temperature regimes. In summary, the data demonstrate that exposing rainbow trout to temperatures of 1.8 ± 1.0°C leads to negative effects on fish performance, the development of thermal stress, suppression of immune parameters, and liver damage. Potential adaptations were observed in erythrocyte size and hemoglobin content.