bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A hyperpolarizing neuron recruits undocked innexin hemichannels to transmit neural information in
Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Nakayama Airi , Watanabe Masakatsu , Yamashiro Riku , Kuroyanagi Hiroo , Matsuyama Hironori J. , Oshima Atsunori , Mori Ikue , Nakano Shunji
Published: May 2024

While depolarization of the neuronal membrane is known to evoke the neurotransmitter release from synaptic vesicles, hyperpolarization is regarded as a resting state of chemical neurotransmission. Here, we report that hyperpolarizing neurons can actively signal neural information by employing undocked hemichannels. We show that UNC-7, a member of the innexin family in
Caenorhabditis elegans,
functions as a hemichannel in thermosensory neurons and transmits temperature information from the thermosensory neurons to their postsynaptic interneurons. By monitoring neural activities in freely behaving animals, we find that hyperpolarizing thermosensory neurons inhibit the activity of the interneurons and that UNC-7 hemichannels regulate this process. UNC-7 is required to control thermotaxis behavior and functions independently of synaptic vesicle exocytosis. Our findings suggest that innexin hemichannels mediate neurotransmission from hyperpolarizing neurons in a manner that is distinct from the synaptic transmission, expanding the way of neural circuitry operations.
Effective three-step method for efficient correction of stripe noise and non-uniformity in infrared remote sensing images
Authors: Hamadouche Sid Ahmed
Published: May 2024

The non-uniformity inherent in infrared detectors’ readout circuits often manifests as stripe noise, significantly impacting the interpretability and utility of infrared images in remote sensing applications. This paper introduces a novel three-step approach designed to overcome the challenges posed by stripe noise, offering a balance between real-time performance, detail preservation, and noise suppression. The proposed method involves subtracting the average of image columns from the noisy image, adding the wavelet denoised average signal to the subtraction result, and finally correcting the resulting image using an image-guidance mechanism. This unique three-step process ensures effective noise removal while preserving image details. The incorporation of wavelet transform leverages the sparsity of noise in the wavelet domain, enhancing denoising without introducing blurring. In a further refinement, the third step utilizes an image-guidance mechanism to recover small details with increased precision. This comprehensive approach addresses both stripe noise and non-uniformity, offering an easy, efficient, and fast technique for image correction. A comprehensive set of experiments, which involves comparisons with state-of-the-art algorithms, serves to substantiate the effectiveness and superior performance of the proposed method in real-world remote sensing and infrared images. Various examples, encompassing both real and artificial noise, are presented to showcase the robustness and applicability of our approach.
Kinetic study of adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye using TiO2 nanoparticles with activated carbon
Authors: Suchak Nidhishree M , Deshpande M P , Mistry Hiral M , Pandya Swati J , Chaki S H , Bhatt Sandip V
Published: May 2024

Activated carbon (AC) exhibits limited adsorption capacity for pollutants. Conversely, titanium dioxide (TiO2) demonstrates excellent photocatalytic performance, making it a popular choice for pollutant removal. This study investigates the removal of methylene blue (MB) dye from wastewater using AC, TiO2@AC-2, and TiO2@AC-10 samples via adsorption and photocatalysis. The Energy Dispersive analysis of x-rays (EDAX) has confirmed the presence of Ti, C and O in the prepared samples without any impurities. All the diffraction peaks in x-ray diffractograms indicated the presence of pure anatase TiO2 (tetragonal phase) with no evidence of any other phase. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis identified a peak around 545 cm−1 in the TiO2@AC-2 sample, indicative of O-Ti-O stretching vibrations. This peak shifted to 602 cm−1 in the TiO2@AC-10 sample. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the presence of carbon (D and G bands) at 1310–1347 cm−1 and 1582–1597 cm−1. Additionally, characteristic Raman active bands for anatase TiO2 were observed at 154 cm−1 (Eg), 204 cm−1 (Eg), 398 cm−1 (B1g), 508 cm−1 (A1g), and 628 cm−1 (Eg). N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms revealed a mesoporous structure for all samples (AC, TiO2@AC-2, and TiO2@AC-10) with hysteresis loops, indicating pores ranging from 2 nm to 50 nm in diameter. Reflectance spectra of TiO2@AC-2 and TiO2@AC-10 displayed absorption edges at 368 nm and 385 nm, respectively, corresponding to a direct band gap of approximately 3.22 eV. Subsequently, these prepared samples were effectively employed for the removal of methylene blue (MB) dye from wastewater utilizing both adsorption and photocatalysis method. Under dark conditions, 20 mg L−1 doses of TiO2@AC-2 and TiO2@AC-10 resulted in 60% and 36% dye adsorption within 60 min respectively. In the presence of UV radiation, the degradation of dye was observed to be 74% and 95% by TiO2@AC-2 and TiO2@AC-10 respectively. This observation indicates that TiO2 nanoparticles along with AC leads to enhanced photocatalytic activity. The Langmuir–Hinshelwood model reveals lower rate constants for AC compared to the composite samples. This is likely because AC lacks inherent catalytic activity, requiring UV light to trigger adsorption. Conversely, TiO2@AC-10 exhibits the highest rate constants (K1 = 24.25 × 10−3 min−1 and K2 = 82.71 × 10−3 min−1), aligning with its higher TiO2 content confirmed by EDAX analysis. This suggests a significantly faster photocatalytic rate and superior degradation efficiency, even at a low sample concentration (20 mg L−1).
Chaplygin gas inspired warm inflation and swampland conjectures through various scalar potentials
Authors: Jawad Abdul , Azhar Nadeem , Sadiq Shama , Rani Shamaila
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we analyze inflationary parameters and swampland conjectures in the presence of a scalar field and Chaplygin models. We examine inflationary parameters, such as slow-roll parameters, scalar and tensor power spectra, spectral index, and tensor-to-scalar ratio, in the presence of a scalar field and Chaplygin gas models. We also discuss recently proposed swampland conjectures. We assume that the inflationary expansion is driven by a standard scalar field with a decay ratio Γ that has a generic power-law dependence on the scalar field ϕ and that the temperature of the thermal bath T is given by

, where

is a dimensionless parameter and a is the inflation decay rate. In a scenario where our model operates within a robust dissipative environment

, we analyze both fundamental and perturbative dynamics to extract key inflationary parameters. These include the scalar power spectrum

, dissipative ratio R, scalar spectral index

, tensor-to-scalar ratio r, running of the scalar spectral index

, and generalized ratio of the swampland de-Sitter conjecture

for three different potentials.
Measurement of the neutron total cross section of 9Be at the Back-n white neutron source of CSNS*
Authors: Bai 白 Jiangbo 江博 , Tang 唐 Jingyu 靖宇 , Shi 施 Liqun 立群 , Chen 陈 Yonghao 永浩 , Yi 易 Han 晗 , Bao 鲍 Jie 杰 , Bao 鲍 Yu 煜 , Cao 曹 Ping 平 , Chen 陈 Haolei 昊磊 , Chen 陈 Zhen 朕 , Cui 崔 Zengqi 增琪 , Fan 樊 Ruirui 瑞睿 , Feng 封 Changqing 常青 , Gao 高 Keqing 可庆 , Gao 高 Xiaolong 晓龙 , Gu 顾 MinHao 旻皓 , Han 韩 Changcai 长材 , He 贺 Guozhu 国珠 , He 何 Yongcheng 泳成 , Hong 洪 Yang 杨 , Hu 胡 Yiwei 益伟 , Huang 黄 Hanxiong 翰雄 , Huang 黄 Xiru 锡汝 , Jiang 江 Haoyu 浩雨 , Jiang 蒋 Wei 伟 , Jiang 姜 Zhijie 智杰 , Jing 敬 Hantao 罕涛 , Kang 康 Ling 玲 , Li 李 Bo 波 , Li 李 Chao 超 , Li 李 Jiawen 嘉雯 , Li 李 Qiang 强 , Li 李 Xiao 晓 , Li 李 Yang 样 , Liu 刘 Jie 杰 , Liu 刘 Shubin 树彬 , Long 龙 Ze 泽 , Luan 栾 Guangyuan 广源 , Ning 宁 Changjun 常军 , Niu 牛 Mengchen 梦臣 , Qi 齐 Binbin 斌斌 , Ren 任 Jie 杰 , Ruan 阮 Xichao 锡超 , Song 宋 Zhaohui 朝晖 , Sun 孙 Kang 康 , Sun 孙 Zhijia 志嘉 , Tan 谭 Zhixin 志新 , Tang 唐 Xinyi 新懿 , Tian 田 Binbin 斌斌 , Wang 王 Lijiao 丽娇 , Wang 王 Pengcheng 鹏程 , Wang 王 Zhaohui 朝辉 , Wu 吴 Xiaoguang 晓光 , Wu 吴 Xuan 煊 , Xie 解 Likun 立坤 , Yang 杨 Xiaoyun 晓云 , Yu 于 Li 莉 , Yu 余 Tao 滔 , Yu 于 Yongji 永积 , Zhang 张 Guohui 国辉 , Zhang 张 Linhao 林浩 , Zhang 张 Qiwei 奇玮 , Zhang 张 Xianpeng 显鹏 , Zhang 张 Yuliang 玉亮 , Zhang 张 Zhiyong 志永 , Zhou 周 Luping 路平 , Zhou 周 Zhihao 志浩 , Zhu 朱 Kejun 科军
Published: May 2024

The neutron total cross section data of 9Be are essential in the nuclear structure model research of light nuclei and nuclear power installations. The neutron total cross section of 9Be in the 0.3 eV−120 MeV energy region has been measured using time-of-flight and transmission methods with the Neutron Total Cross Sectional Spectrometer (NTOX) based on the multi-cell fast fission chamber at the China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS)-Back-n white neutron source (Back-n). The fission count-neutron energy distributions of 235U and 238U without samples and with Be samples with three thicknesses were measured in the double-bunch operation mode for a beam power of 100 kW. The Bayesian method was used to eliminate the influence of the double-bunch problem on neutron measurement in the energy region above 10 keV. The neutron total cross section of 9Be results was consistent with ENDF/B-VIII.0 evaluation library data in the 0.3 eV−20 MeV energy region. In the energy ranges of 0.3 eV to 10 keV and 0.01 to 20 MeV, the deviations between our results and the evaluation results of ENDF/B-VIII.0 were within 2.5% and 15%, respectively. In the resonance energy region, the measured resonance energies in our experiment were 0.63, 0.82, and 2.8 MeV, respectively. The results showed that the total cross section uncertainties of three Be samples were within 2.2% in the energy region below 1 MeV. The total cross section uncertainty of 30 mm Be from 235U was the smallest and less than 5% in the energy region of 0.3 eV−120 MeV. The results of this experiment can provide technical support for further data analysis and related nuclear data evaluation.
Discovery potential of the Glashow resonance in an air shower neutrino telescope*
Authors: Huang 黄 Guo-Yuan 国远
Published: May 2024

The in-ice or in-water Cherenkov neutrino telescope, such as IceCube, has already proved its power in measuring the Glashow resonance by searching for the bump around

arising from the W-boson production. There are many proposals for the next few decades for observations of cosmic tau neutrinos with extensive air showers, also known as tau neutrino telescopes. The air shower telescope is, in principle, sensitive to the Glashow resonance via the channel

followed by the tau decay in the air (e.g., TAMBO, which has a geometric area of approximately

). Using a thorough numerical analysis, we find that the discovery significance can be up to 90% with a TAMBO-like setup if PeV neutrinos primarily originate from neutron decays, considering the flux parameters measured by IceCube as the input. The presence of new physics affecting the neutrino flavor composition can also increase the significance. However, if ultrahigh-energy neutrinos are dominantly produced from meson decays, it will be statistically difficult for an advanced proposal such as TAMBO to discriminate the Glashow resonance induced by

from the intrinsic

background. We have identified several limitations for such advanced telescopes, in comparison with the in-ice or in-water telescope, when measuring resonances: (i) a suppressed branching ratio of 11% for the decay

; (ii) the smearing effect and reduced acceptance because the daughter neutrino takes away

75% of the energy from the W decay; and (iii) a large attenuation effect for Earth-skimming neutrinos with the resonance.
Unveiling EMG semantics: a prototype-learning approach to generalizable gesture classification
Authors: Lee Hunmin , Jiang Ming , Yang Jinhui , Yang Zhi , Zhao Qi
Published: May 2024

Objective. Upper limb loss can profoundly impact an individual’s quality of life, posing challenges to both physical capabilities and emotional well-being. To restore limb function by decoding electromyography (EMG) signals, in this paper, we present a novel deep prototype learning method for accurate and generalizable EMG-based gesture classification. Existing methods suffer from limitations in generalization across subjects due to the diverse nature of individual muscle responses, impeding seamless applicability in broader populations. Approach. By leveraging deep prototype learning, we introduce a method that goes beyond direct output prediction. Instead, it matches new EMG inputs to a set of learned prototypes and predicts the corresponding labels. Main results. This novel methodology significantly enhances the model’s classification performance and generalizability by discriminating subtle differences between gestures, making it more reliable and precise in real-world applications. Our experiments on four Ninapro datasets suggest that our deep prototype learning classifier outperforms state-of-the-art methods in terms of intra-subject and inter-subject classification accuracy in gesture prediction. Significance. The results from our experiments validate the effectiveness of the proposed method and pave the way for future advancements in the field of EMG gesture classification for upper limb prosthetics.
Determination of a car speed - analysis of projectile motion from a muddy puddle
Authors: Mohorič Aleš
Published: May 2024

Drops from a muddy puddle produce a distinct pattern on the side doors of a car driving through the puddle. This pattern was studied to determine the speed of the car. We can conceive at least two different models for pattern formation. We can decide in favor of one of the models by using different representations of the data. The activity is based on a rich context-based problem of projectile motion and offers epistemological insight into how physics research works by forming and testing hypotheses and using alternative representations.
Using Smartphones to Innovate Laboratories in Introductory Physics Courses
Authors: Bernardini E , Carli M , Elkhashab M Y , Ferroglia A , Fiolhais M , Gabelli L , Jessen Munch H , Krym D , Mastrolia P , Ossola G , Pantano O , Postiglione J , Poveda Correa J S , Sirignano C , Soramel F
Published: May 2024

The SmartPhysics project involved two higher education institutions, one in Italy and one in the US, with the aim of exploring the use of smartphones for laboratory experiments in introductory Physics courses. Here we present and discuss two experiments that were developed in the project: the pendulum experiment, consisting in the measurement of the gravitational constant using a proximity stopwatch, and the ‘bouncing ball’ experiment, aimed at measuring the energy lost inelastic collisions with a hard surface. Both experiments were tested with the students in the academic year 2021-22. Our results and didactical reflections contain suggestions for the use of smartphone-based experiments in university settings, in comparison with traditional experiments and considering the specificities of different contexts.
Agent-based perspectives on epidemiological models: analysis of interviews with upper high-school students
Authors: Barelli Eleonora
Published: May 2024

In disease spread modeling, a prevalent approach employs differential equations to depict the dynamics of susceptible, infectious, and recovered populations over time. Nonetheless, alternative avenues exist through agent-based epidemiological models, drawing inspiration from interaction models from the physics of complex systems. This study delves into the formulation of such models by upper high-school students who attended a teaching-learning module on computational simulations. The paper focuses on their development of agent-based virus spread models, exploring their ability to forge analogies with previously encountered models of complex systems - namely, predator-prey, opinion dynamics, and cooperative behaviour models. Through the qualitative analysis of individual interviews, our findings reveal that effective strategies of analogy’s construction embed a comprehensive exploration of the underlying interaction mechanisms governing the evolution of the system under study. Conversely, in instances where the mechanistic dimension remains unexplored or vague, the depth and quality of the model elaborated is lower and the potential of comparing models to construct a more robust analogy remains unexploited.
Problem Solving Seminar for Future Physics Teachers
Authors: Dvořáková I , Snětinová M
Published: May 2024

The paper presents a seminar for future physics teachers focused on problem solving and creativity in problem solving. In this seminar, students are encouraged to find effective strategies for various problems on their own, to use multiple representations, and to be aware of barriers as well as possible clues to solving problems. Students and their teachers reflect together on the goal of each activity or problem, and look for ways to bring them into the regular classroom. The seminar is aimed not only at developing students’ problem-solving competencies, but more importantly to draw them towards thinking like a future teacher.
Creation of an evaluation rubric for the assessment of written preparation for teaching physics
Authors: Gejdošová Barbora , Velmovská Klára
Published: May 2024

In the article, we present a proposal for an evaluation rubric for evaluating preparations for physics lessons. The evaluation rubric is intended for the evaluation of written preparations created by physics preservice teachers. We describe the method of creating an evaluation rubric and verifying its reliability. A well-conducted lesson by the teacher presupposes high-quality preparation for the lesson. Therefore, we consider it important that pre-service teachers would be able to develop a well-thought-out preparation in written form. We plan to improve its quality among students (pre-service teachers) by providing feedback based on the evaluation tool designed by us. We verified the reliability of the final evaluation rubric, therefore it can be considered a suitable tool for evaluating student preparations for physics lessons and providing feedback.
Valuation of a financial claim contingent on the outcome of a quantum measurement
Authors: Hughston Lane P , Sánchez-Betancourt Leandro
Published: May 2024

We consider a rational agent who at time 0 enters into a financial contract for which the payout is determined by a quantum measurement at some time T > 0. The state of the quantum system is given in the Heisenberg representation by a known density matrix

p
^

. How much will the agent be willing to pay at time 0 to enter into such a contract? In the case of a finite dimensional Hilbert space

H

, each such claim is represented by an observable

X
^

T

where the eigenvalues of

X
^

T

determine the amount paid if the corresponding outcome is obtained in the measurement. We prove, under reasonable axioms, that there exists a pricing state

q
^

which is equivalent to the physical state

p
^

such that the pricing function

Π

0
T

takes the linear form

Π

0
T

(

X
^

T

)
=

P

0
T

tr
(

q
^

X
^

T

)

for any claim

X
^

T

, where

P

0
T

is the one-period discount factor. By ‘equivalent’ we mean that

p
^

and

q
^

share the same null space: that is, for any

|
ξ
⟩
∈

H

one has

p
^

|

ξ
⟩
=
0

if and only if

q
^

|

ξ
⟩
=
0

. We introduce a class of optimization problems and solve for the optimal contract payout structure for a claim based on a given measurement. Then we consider the implications of the Kochen–Specker theorem in this setting and we look at the problem of forming portfolios of such contracts. Finally, we consider multi-period contracts.
Self-compacting geopolymer concrete using Class F Fly Ash
Authors: Mehta Geeta , Garg Anshul , Sharma Sanjay Kumar
Published: May 2024

The development of self-compacting geopolymer concrete has the dual advantages of reducing environmental pollution and managing waste. The objective of the current experimental study is to create self-compacting geopolymer concrete with the best sodium silicate to sodium hydroxide ratio utilizing class F fly ash and sodium hydroxide. With varying sodium silicate to sodium hydroxide ratios (2.1, 2.3, 2.5, and 2.7), different molarities of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) (10M, 12M, and 14M) have been examined for workability and strength behavior. Self-compacting geopolymer concrete is found to be the ideal combination for a 12M sodium hydroxide solution and a 2.5 ratio of sodium silicate to sodium hydroxide solution.
Improving the Performance of Porous Concrete by Utilizing the Pumice Aggregate
Authors: Das Sourish , Juneja Deepak Kumar
Published: May 2024

The performance of porous concrete, widely used for storm-water management, can be compromised due to the limitations of conventional aggregates. This research investigates the potential of pumice aggregate, a lightweight volcanic material, to enhance the mechanical strength, durability, and permeability of porous concrete. A series of experimental tests were conducted to evaluate the effects of varying pumice aggregate content on the properties of porous concrete. The results demonstrate that the inclusion of pumice aggregate significantly improves the compressive strength, flexural strength, and freeze-thaw resistance of porous concrete. Moreover, the permeability of the concrete mixtures is enhanced, allowing for better storm-water infiltration. The favorable porous characteristics of pumice aggregate contribute to increased void content within the concrete, enhancing its water storage capacity and reducing runoff. These findings suggest that utilizing pumice aggregate can lead to the development of more sustainable and efficient porous concrete systems for storm-water management. The incorporation of pumice aggregate not only improves the mechanical and hydraulic performance of porous concrete but also offers environmental benefits by utilizing a lightweight and natural material. The findings of this research have significant implications for sustainable construction practices and the effective management of storm-water runoff.
Feasibility Study on the Use of Iron Ore Tailings as Fine Aggregate with Glass Fibre in Concrete
Authors: Hameed A S , Raju A , Nagarajan P
Published: May 2024

Concrete is the most widely used building material in the world, but its production has significant environmental consequences, including high carbon emissions and natural resource depletion. As a result, there is an increasing interest in the development of sustainable concrete technologies that reduce concrete’s environmental footprint while maintaining its performance and durability. Partially replacing fine aggregate with industrial waste is one such approach. It is a great practice for developing sustainable concrete that can help with environmental problems caused by the dumping of these waste materials at the same time maintaining the performance of concrete. It also provides economic and social benefits in addition to the environmental benefits. iron ore tailings is one such industrial waste that is the by-product of iron ore beneficiation process which has shown the potential for partial replacement of fine aggregate in concrete. In addition, glass fibre is added to improve the tensile property of concrete. A concrete mix of M20 grade were prepared by replacing fine aggregate with iron ore tailing at replacement level 15%, 25%, and 35% and the optimum replacement percentage was obtained. Further, glass fibre was added at the dosage of 0.5% by the weight of cement to the mix with optimised replacement of iron ore tailings and tests were conducted. This work also examines concrete’s physical, mechanical and durability properties with partial replacement of fine aggregate with iron ore tailings and glass fibre by conducting tests on strength and durability. Results obtained indicates incorporation of iron ore tailing with concrete reduces the workability of concrete, and the addition of glass fibre improved the compressive strength and split tensile strength. Durability tests show an increase in water absorption with the addition of iron ore tailings and a medium level of chloride penetration. The study showed the use of iron ore tailing as a sustainable alternative to fine aggregate in concrete.
Effect of marble dust blended with recycled coarse aggregate on self-compacting geopolymer concrete
Authors: Mehta Geeta , Dhamal Aditya , Reeyaz  , Yadav Vivekanand , Sharma Sanjay Kumar
Published: May 2024

This investigation on the application of marble dust, ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), and recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) in geopolymer concrete is presented in this research report. The study aims to determine whether it is possible to make concrete that is more environmentally friendly and sustainable while maintaining its desirable features. The creation and testing of various GGBS-based geopolymer concrete mixtures utilizing varying ratios of marble dust and RCA in a 12M NaOH solution were part of the research technique. In the experimental study, new concrete qualities were developed and examined by EFNARC requirements. The addition of marble dust and RCA has been found to significantly alter the geopolymer concrete’s characteristics. The study finds that employing RCA, GGBS, and marble dust can be successful.
Hydraulic Conductivity of Soils: A Comprehensive Review of the Impacts of Chemicals, Soil Salinity, Organic Matter, and Land Use
Authors: Gupta S K , Kumar M , Srivastava A K
Published: May 2024

The contamination of groundwater by toxic heavy metals, organic compounds, and microbiological contaminants is a significant issue worldwide. To address this problem, various methods have been employed, including in-situ remediation and transporting polluted soil or groundwater for final treatment. This study aims to review the impact of soil heterogeneity on in-situ remediation, with a particular focus on subsurface preferential flow that accelerates solute transport. The study highlights the importance of soil hydraulic conductivity in soil production, ecological health, and water resource management. Soil hydraulic conductivity is influenced by soil structure, moisture content, and chemical exposure. The findings of this study emphasize that sustainable soil management and environmental restoration require an understanding of hydraulic conductivity parameters and the implementation of appropriate management strategies.
Guidelines for reproducible analysis of adaptive immune receptor repertoire sequencing data
Authors: Peres Ayelet , Klein Vered , Frankel Boaz , Lees William , Polak Pazit , Meehan Mark , Rocha Artur , Correia Lopes João , Yaari Gur
Published: May 2024

Enhancing the reproducibility and comprehension of adaptive immune receptor repertoire sequencing (AIRR-seq) data analysis is critical for scientific progress. This study presents guidelines for reproducible AIRR-seq data analysis, and a collection of ready-to-use pipelines with comprehensive documentation. To this end, ten common pipelines were implemented using ViaFoundry, a user-friendly interface for pipeline management and automation. This is accompanied by versioned containers, documentation and archiving capabilities. The automation of pre-processing analysis steps and the ability to modify pipeline parameters according to specific research needs are emphasized. AIRR-seq data analysis is highly sensitive to varying parameters and setups; using the guidelines presented here, the ability to reproduce previously published results is demonstrated. This work promotes transparency, reproducibility, and collaboration in AIRR-seq data analysis, serving as a model for handling and documenting bioinformatics pipelines in other research domains.
Property of Hemorrhoid Tissue Mesenchymal Stem Cell Tow-Dimensional and Tridimensional Cultures for the Treatment of Anal Incontinence
Authors: Balaphas A , El Hajji S , Moeckli B , Liot E , Modarressi A , Meurette G , Laumonier T , Lacotte S , Meyer J , Toso C , Ris F
Published: May 2024

Background

Autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) from different origins, including adipose tissue, have been proposed for the treatment of anal incontinence with encouraging preclinical and clinical outcomes. Cell transplantation as tridimensional structures instead of individual cell suspension seems to increase cell viability and implantation. We previously developed a protocol for MSC isolation directly from haemorrhoidal tissue (he-MSC) in human and demonstrated that the isolated cells fulfil MSC criteria.

Aims

Evaluate the characteristics and secretome of he-MSC in both two-dimensional or tridimensional cultures.

Methods

Informed consent was obtained from all patients. Tissue samples were procured from haemorrhoidectomy specimens or liposuction waste product and processed and characterized according to previously reported methods. He-MSC were cultured as spheroids using the “hanging-drop technique” or agarose pits. Immunofluorescence was performed to assess the expression of mesenchymal proteins and cell viability. Conditioned media of tow-dimensional cultures or spheroids in suspension were generated using low serum culture medium and analysed with semi-quantitative cytokine arrays (120 cytokines) and ELISA assays.

Results

Cultured cells demonstrated expression of vimentin and good viability, even as spheroids (2.6±2% cell death). Cytokine profile of he-MSC secretome was similar to that of adipose tissue-derived MSC (AT-MSC), with shared core cytokines (FGF-9, OPG, CCL2, CCL11, CCL13, IGFBP-4, IGFBP-6). Concentration of HGF measured by ELISA was higher in he-MSC conditioned medium than in AT- MSC conditioned medium (19613±3528 versus 179±84 pg/ml p<0.001) whereas VEGF concentration followed an opposite trend (7627±947pg/ml versus 181±74 pg/ml p<0.001). Production of mesenchymal proteins and growth factors was not affected by the spheroid configuration of cells.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that he-MSC exhibit a similar secretome profile compared to AT-MSC. Generation of spheroids did not compromise cell viability or their ability to produce structural proteins and growth factors, validating he-MSC spheroids use for further in vivo studies prior to clinical validation.
Anastomotic Leakage after Colorectal Surgery is Associated with a Specific Tissue-Microbiome Signature
Authors: Cianfarani A , Sitta V , Galafassi J , Mongelli F , Sorrenti E , Villa M , Djordjevic J , Majno-Hurst P , Iezzi G , Christoforidis D
Published: May 2024

Background

Anastomotic leakage (AL) occurs in 5-15% of colorectal resections. In addition to well-known risk factors, recent evidence suggests that the gut microbiota might critically affect anastomotic healing. However, studies in humans are limited.

Aims

To explore differences in pre-operative microbiome of patients with or without AL and identify anastomosis-protective or damaging bacterial species.

Methods

Clinical records of patients undergoing left colon or rectal resection with anastomosis at our department between 2013 and 2021 were screened. AL cases were matched equally to controls by propensity score, based on common AL risk factors. The microbiome was analyzed by amplification and sequencing of the V4 region of the 16S gene of DNA extracted from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded mucosa taken at the proximal and distal margin of the resected specimen, mixed in equal amounts. Differential abundance of identified operational taxonomic units (OTUs) in AL-cases and controls was tested by using the R-package DESeq2.

Results

Among 588 patients screened, 41 cases and 42 matched controls were eligible for microbiome analysis. Patient characteristics were similar except for a higher percentage of rectal resections in the AL group. Out of 5406 OTUs identified, 197 OTUs were differentially abundant between the two groups (adjusted-p value <0.05). Of those, 175 OTUs were more prevalent in the AL-group, in particular Fusobacterium periodonticum (32% vs. 5% of patients) and bacteria from the Hyphomicrobium genera (39-44% vs. 12-21%); 22 were more prevalent in the control group, in particular Akkermansia muciniphila (26 vs. 17%) and Eubacterium sireum (19 vs. 5% of patients).

Conclusion

Our analysis unravels AL-associated microbiome-signatures and identifies bacterial species highly prevalent in particular in patients with AL. These findings could be used for future research to develop targeted antibiotic therapy that helps prevent AL.
Utero-Ovarian “out of field” Transposition Before Pelvic Radiation in a Patient with Rectal Cancer: A First Swiss Experience
Authors: Fournier I , Huber D , Hurni Y , Dischl I , Pena Rios F J
Published: May 2024

Background

Colorectal cancer represents the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The incidence of rectal cancer is rising faster and is increasing among young adults. Due to advances in diagnosis and treatment, most young patients with rectal cancer present long-term survival. Treatment-related infertility represents a largely unaddressed problem.

Fertility preservation is essential in managing young women requiring chemo- and radiotherapy for rectal cancer. Ovaries and oocytes are very sensitive to radiation and chemotherapeutic agents, and current fertility preservation strategies include oocytes, embryos, or ovarian tissue cryopreservation and ovarian transposition out of the radiation field. Nevertheless, patients have little probability of procreating due to irreversible uterine radiation damages. Utero-ovarian “out of filed” Transposition [UOT] represent an interesting perspective specially in countries were pregnancy surrogacy is not allowed.

Aims

Demonstrate feasibility of an innovative surgical procedure permitting uterine functional preservation after long course neoadjuvant therapy for low rectal cancer including total chemo and radio-chemotherapy.

Methods

First Clinical Swiss experience case presentation. In addition, of a systematic review of the literature available to date on all cases of UOT was realized, and 13 patients from 9 articles were included.

Results

A 28-year-old nulligravida patient was diagnosed with a low-grade rectal adenocarcinoma. Before neoadjuvant therapies, the patient underwent laparoscopic UOT. The intervention was performed without complications, and the patient received neoadjuvant treatments as planned. TaTME and uterus repositioning were completed six weeks after the radiotherapy's end. No complications were observed during the first 9 postoperative months. Adequate utero-ovarian perfusion was assessed by Doppler ultrasound, cervicovaginal anastomosis appeared healed correctly, and the patient experienced menstrual bleeding. Data from the literature review of reported cases of UOT were presented.

Conclusion

UOT represents a valuable option to preserve fertility in patients requiring pelvic radiotherapy. This study provides additional evidence on the feasibility and safety of UOT.
Does Surgical Margin Affect Recurrence and Survival after Pulmonary Segmentectomy for cT1 Lung Cancer?
Authors: Donlagic A , Zanfrini E , Abdelnour-Berchtold E , Perentes J Y , Krueger T , Forster C , Gonzalez M
Published: May 2024

Background

During segmentectomy for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the recommended distance between the tumour and the intersegmental plane is at least 1 cm and the recommended ratio between tumour and surgical margin (M/T) should be at least 1.

Aims

The aim of the study is to evaluate the association between surgical margin and the risk of recurrence, as well as overall survival, after pulmonary segmentectomy.

Methods

Single centre study of consecutive patients undergoing pulmonary segmentectomy for cT1N0M0 NSCLC from January 2017 to December 2022.

Results

In total, 291 patients (median age: 69 years) underwent segmentectomy for cT1a (n=65), cT1b (n=152) and cT1c (n=74) cN0 NSCLC. Surgical approach was performed by video-assisted thoracic surgery in 99% and conversion thoracotomy was necessary in 2.4%. Single segmentectomy was performed in 183 patients (63%). The median number of dissected lymph nodes was 7 (IQR 4-12). The median size of tumour was 15 mm (IQR 11-20). The median surgical margin was 13mm (IQR 7-22) with 32% of patients had surgical margin of less than 10mm with only one patient with R1 resection. M/T ratio >1 was achieved in 49%. Nodal upstaging was found in 14 patients (5%). During the follow-up, 63 patients (21%) were lost and removed from analyses. Local recurrence was observed in only 3 patients (1%) and distant in 19 patients (8%). Recurrence free survival was significantly associated with PET FDG uptake > 3 (HR:4.89), pleural invasion (HR: 3.02) and nodal upstaging (HR: 3.79). However, surgical margin <10 mm or ratio < 1 were not correlated with increased recurrence (HR: 0.78; p=0.624) (HR: 0.69; p = 0.404) or poorer survival (HR: 1.14; p=0.806) (HR: 1.73; p= 0.309), respectively.

Conclusion

Our preliminary data indicates that local recurrence is infrequent after pulmonary segmentectomy for cT1N0 NSCLC, even with a limited surgical margin.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors Before Liver Transplantation May Increase the Risk of Rejection: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Moeckli B , Toso C , Wassmer C H , El Hajji S , Kumar R , Lacotte S , Compagnon P
Published: May 2024

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) represent a major breakthrough in cancer immunotherapy. Several molecules have shown efficacy in HCC and are increasingly used as a bridging therapy before liver transplantation. Initial reports have raised concern about severe rejections in patients following ICI therapy.

Aims

This meta-analysis assesses the risk of neoadjuvant ICI therapy before liver transplantation.

Methods

We systematically searched MEDLINE, Web of Science and Embase for studies including all patients treated with ICI therapy before liver transplantation from a given center. A random-effects model was applied to pooled results with a priori determined subgroup analyses.

Results

Eight studies published during the past three years fulfilled all inclusion criteria. All studies are noncomparative case series, one prospective, and seven retrospective. Studies included 52 patients who received various PD1 inhibitors between 1 and 253 days prior to liver transplantation. Patients treated with an ICI ahead of transplantation demonstrated an overall relative risk (RR) of 2.5 [95% CI: 1.4-3.8] for an acute rejection event. Furthermore, a subgroup analysis showed that patients who received PD1 inhibitors up to 30 days (RR 7.2 [95% CI: 4.9-10.5]) or between 30 and 60 days (RR 7.2 [95% CI: 5.1-10.3]) prior to liver transplantation suffered a higher rejection risk than patients with a “washout period” beyond 60 days (RR 1.8 [95% CI: 0.6-4.9]). The ICI, age, and underlying etiology were insignificant for RR in their subgroup analysis.

Conclusion

PD1 inhibitors within two months of liver transplantation may significantly elevate rejection risk. This meta-analysis provides valuable insights to inform clinical decision-making. Nevertheless, future trials remain imperative to establish definitive guidelines.
Pathological Complete Response after Radio Chemotherapy and Esophagectomy – false Sense of Security?
Authors: Gerber S , Hemmatazad H , Berger M , Candinas D , Kröll D , Haltmeier T , Borbély Y
Published: May 2024

Background

Esophageal cancer (EC) is associated with a high morbidity and mortality, even in a curative treatment approach. The current standard of care for curative treatment of EC consists of neoadjuvant radio chemotherapy (RCT) followed by resection. Pathological response in the resected tissue is a well-known predictor of disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Yet, even in a pathological complete response (pCR), cancer recurrence is not infrequent.

Aims

To analyze DFS and OS in patients with pCR after trimodal therapy and identify risk factors for recurrence.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed all patients with pathological complete response after RCT and esophagectomy treated for EC between 01/2014 and 12/2021. Clinical data such as demographic data, tumor characteristics at staging and restaging and postoperative follow-up, were extracted from electronic medical records.

Results

Of 28 patients, 10 (35.7%) developed cancer recurrence. There were no statistically significant differences in patient or tumor characteristics between patients with or without recurrence.

Recurrence occurred after a median 21 months (IQR 30). Median OS was 40.5 months (IQR 40) in patients with and 48.5 months (IQR 32) in patients without recurrence (p=0.121). Recurrence was mostly distant (n = 9, 90%). 4 (of 10, 40%) patients were then addressed in curative, 6 (60%) in palliative intention.

Predictive factors for cancer recurrence were persistent tumor in endosonography and/or computed tomography during restaging.

Conclusion

Even in patients with pCR after RCT and esophagectomy, around one third develops cancer recurrence. A tight follow-up with special attention to distant rather than local recurrence seems beneficial. Patients with an aspect of only partial response at restaging are at higher risk for recurrence and should be monitored even closer.
Infective Native Aortic Aneurysm: a Delphi Consensus Document on Treatment, Follow Up, and Definition of Cure
Authors: Giardini M , Wyss T R , Sörelius K
Published: May 2024

Background

Evidence is lacking to guide the management of infective native aortic aneurysm (INAA).

Aims

The aim of this study was to establish expert consensus on surgical and antimicrobial treatment and follow up, and to define when an INAA is considered cured.

Methods

Delphi methodology was used. The principal investigators invited 47 international experts (specialists in infectious diseases, radiology, nuclear medicine, and vascular and cardiothoracic surgery) via email. Four Delphi rounds were performed, 3 weeks each, using an online questionnaire with initially 28 statements. The panelists rated the statements on a 5-point Likert scale. Comments on statements were analysed, statements were revised and added or deleted, and the results were presented in the iterative rounds. Consensus was defined as ≥ 75% of the panel rating a statement as strongly agree or agree on the Likert scale, and consensus on the final assessment was defined as Cronbach’s α > 0.80.

Results

All 49 panelists fulfilled all four rounds, resulting in 100% participation. One statement was added based on the results and comments of the panel, resulting in 29 final statements: n = 3 on need for consensus, n = 20 on treatment, n = 5 on follow up, and n = 1 on definition of cure. All 29 statements reached agreement of ≥ 86%. Cronbach’s α increased for each consecutive round; round 1, 0.85; round 2, 0.90; round 3, 0.91; and round 4, 0.94. Thus, consensus was reached for all statements.

Conclusion

INAA is rare, and high-level evidence is lacking to guide optimal management. This consensus document was established with the aim of helping clinicians manage these challenging patients, as a supplement to current guidelines. The presented consensus will need future amendments in accordance with newly acquired knowledge.
ECG SCREENING FOR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN ENDURANCE ATHLETES OVER 40
Authors: Liporace P , Ricciardi D , Crispino E , Marchi F , D‘Amore M , Loiacono G , Sanasi L , Sposito E , Italiano E , Picarelli F , Calabrese V , Gioia F , Grigioni F , Ussia G
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) increase with age. There are many athletes aged >40 years who practise endurance sports, that involve very high intensity physical exertion and prolonged efforts. This population undergo to annual examination with a medical history, spirometry, urine test and exercise test. CV and sudden cardiac death are the main cause of mortality in athletes during sport, so this kind of screening remains controversial.

The aim of the study is to evaluate whether a 5–minute ‘Event Recorder ECG‘, associated with the conventional examination, can have an additional role for early screening and prevention of CVD in older endurance sport population.

Materials and Methods

The population were selected as part of the larger ‘Heart And Run‘ project, an ECG collection of endurance athletes in Rome–Italy. A control group of healty individiuals was collected for comparison. The ECG traces were recorded at rest for 5 minutes with the Kardia Mobile 6L device. The study group were compared for an ECG morphological analysis and for HRV parameters in the time and frequency domain.

Results

A total of 353 subjects (182 athletes and 171 controls) were analysed. The athlets show a significantly higher incidence of sinus arrhythmias, LAFB, 1° degree AV Block, J–point elevation and ST–segment abnormalities. We found also a significantly shorter QTc in athlets compared to controls. In line with the ECG findings, the HRV PNS and SNS indices were respectively higher and lower in the athlete group than in the controls, confirming a higher vagal tone. Due to the absence of normality range, we considered values lower of the 5th or higher of the 95th percentile range, for the main HRV parameters, as abnormals. We identified 29/182 virtually abnormal HRV individuals. Those patients could be at increased CV risk, worthy of further investigation. In total, out–of–range HRV values or morphological abnormalities were detected in 54 athletes (29% of the total), a population that will need further attention through follow–up and additional examinations.

Conclusions

Despite competitive endurance sports are associated with increased vagal tone, which is virtually protective against CV diseases, even in athletes over 40, the addition of the 5–minute ‘Event Recorder ECG‘ could increase the sensitivity in detection of CVD suggesting additional clinical and instrumental investigations in such patients.