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Abstract Cognition is often a problem in management accounting communication. A gap arises between the sender and receiver of management accounting information, leading to miscommunication. A semiotic approach is a practical tool to decrease such miscommunication in management accounting. Jakobson’s communication model helps decrease such miscommunication. This study examines how Jakobson’s communication model is helpful for management accounting communication and our proposed communication model is intended to support management by providing relevant and timely information for planning, controlling, and decision-making. Additionally, our communication model is designed to decrease miscommunication.

Background: Gastroschisis is a rare congenital anomaly in which abdominal organs herniate through a defect in the abdominal wall. Managing gastroschisis in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants presents significant challenges because of their immature physiologies and increased risk of complications. Case presentation: This report discusses the case of a female ELBW infant born via an emergency cesarean section at 29 weeks of gestation, weighing 768 g, who had a prenatal diagnosis of gastroschisis. Postnatal management included immediate surgical intervention using a hand-made silo manufactured from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) sheets that were sutured to the patient's abdominal wall to accommodate her small abdominal cavity and preserve mesenteric blood flow. Necrotizing enterocolitis with bowel perforation emerged as a complication, which led to the excision of a 10 cm segment of the ileum and the creation of an ileostomy. The infant experienced insufficient weight gain and liver dysfunction. However, she was eventually discharged on day 142 of life, weighing 2774 g, on oral feeding, without significant complications. Conclusions: This case emphasizes how prematurity significantly affected the patient's clinical outcomes, and highlights the importance of individualized management strategies. Our experience demonstrates that custom silo placement allows for the size to be adapted to the abdominal defect, and highlights the critical need to prioritize postnatal bowel perfusion in ELBW infants with gastroschisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pravastatin is a promising medication to treat preeclampsia. However, the appropriate dose of pravastatin for managing preeclampsia has not been established. In this in vitro study, we examined the effects of low concentrations of pravastatin (0.01 to 10 µM) under hypoxic conditions on two types of placental cells and found that pravastatin decreased sFlt-1 levels up to 34% in cytotrophoblast cells isolated from human term placentas. Furthermore, we showed that sFlt-1 levels in HTR-8/SVneo cells, a cell line derived from first trimester trophoblast cells, decreased after exposure to very low concentrations of pravastatin (0.01, 0.1 µM). We also examined the effects of pravastatin on uterine spiral artery remodeling-related events and showed in wound healing and tube formation assays that low concentrations of pravastatin upregulated cell migration and invasion in HTR-8/SVneo cells. These results demonstrated that a low dose of pravastatin has in vitro effects that suggest a potential for anti-preeclamptic effects in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) boost is a promising treatment for cervical cancer patients who are ineligible for intracavitary brachytherapy (ICBT). The aim of this multicenter, single-arm, phase I/II study was to prospectively evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of SBRT boost. Materials and methods: ICBT-ineligible patients with untreated cervical cancer were enrolled. Patients underwent whole-pelvic radiotherapy (45 Gy in 25 fractions) with SBRT boost to the primary lesion. In the phase I dose-escalation cohort (3 + 3 design), patients were treated with SBRT boost of 21 or 22.5 Gy in three fractions. Although dose-limiting toxicity was not confirmed, a dose of 21 Gy was selected for the phase II cohort because it was difficult to reproduce the pelvic organs position in two patients during the phase I trial. The primary endpoint was 2-year progression-free survival. Results: Twenty-one patients (phase I, n = 3; phase II, n = 18) were enrolled between April 2016 and October 2020; 17 (81%) had clinical stage III–IV (with para-aortic lymph node metastases) disease. The median (range) follow-up was 40 (10–84) months. The initial response was complete response in 20 patients and partial response in one patient. The 2-year locoregional control, progression-free survival, and overall survival rates were 84%, 67%, and 81%, respectively. Grade ≥ 3 toxicity was confirmed in one patient each in the acute (diarrhea) and late (urinary tract obstruction) phases. Conclusion: These findings suggested that a SBRT boost is more effective than the conventional EBRT boost and can be an important treatment option for ICBT-ineligible patients with cervical cancer. Study registration: This study was registered at the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000036845). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranthus (Amaranthus spp.) is one of the crops considered superfoods, given that this grain is enriched for minerals, protein, and vitamins. Most cultivars of this species exhibit seed-shattering, resulting in a reduction in seed yield, but it is expected that this undesirable trait can be improved by further breeding. However, the genetic mechanism of seed-shattering in this organism remains largely unknown. In the present study, we compared two amaranthus isolates, the A. cruentus grain cultivar 'New Aztec' (NA) (which exhibits seed-shattering) and Amaranthus spp. Accession DB9350 (DB) (which lacks seed-shattering). In initial experiments, we conducted morphological observations of the spikelets and utricles in these two strains. NA, and not DB, showed a horizontal dehiscence line on the utricle, resulting in easy detachment of the upper part of the pericarp and seed release. Next, we investigated the presence or absence of seed-shattering in the F1 and F2 progeny of an NA×DB cross. Notably, all F1 plants (n=10) showed shattering traits. In contrast, F2 plants (n = 106) exhibited segregation, yielding 82 and 24 plants showing shattering and non-shattering traits (respectively), consistent with the segregation ratio expected for Mendelian inheritance (3:1, χ2 = 0.314, p = 0.575). To elucidate the genetics of this trait, we performed bulked segregant analysis and linkage analysis in the F2 progeny. This analysis identified a locus, designated Acsh, in the 15.2–16.0 Mbp range of Chromosome 2B; the genotype at this locus co-segregated with the seed-shattering phenotype. Together, these data demonstrated that the seed-shattering trait in A. cruentus is a dominant, single-gene, qualitative trait regulated by Acsh. These results are expected to facilitate the breeding of non-shattering cultivars in grain amaranthus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Opioid-induced rigidity is typically observed during rapid administration of fentanyl. Herein, we present a case in which rigidity occurred after reversal of rocuronium during emergence from anesthesia. Case presentation: A 73-year-old man underwent video-assisted partial lung resection. General anesthesia was induced with propofol, remimazolam, remifentanil, and rocuronium. Fentanyl was administered early during anesthesia. The surgery was completed without complications, and sugammadex sodium was administered for rocuronium reversal. The patient became agitated, but spontaneous breathing was maintained; therefore, the intratracheal tube was removed after the administration of flumazenil. The patient developed stiffness in the neck and jaw muscles along with remarkable skeletal muscle contractions. Dramatic improvement was observed immediately after administration of naloxone. Conclusions: Even as the simulated effect site concentration of fentanyl decreases during anesthesia emergence, opioid-induced rigidity may still occur. Rapid reversal of remimazolam by flumazenil might have contributed to the rigidity in this case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purposes: This study aimed to retrospectively assess the response to a newly developed compression brace for improving the deformity of the secondary pectus carinatum in infants and toddlers undergoing cardiac surgery with midline sternotomy. Factors affecting the response to the brace were identified. Methods: Fifty-one children were enrolled. Severity was expressed as the protrusion angle of the sternum obtained from chest X-ray. The patients were divided into two groups by positive or negative binary residuals of the relationship between the angle at the beginning and its percentage change after wearing the brace. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the influencing factors. Results: Thirty patients (58.8%) showed zero and positive residuals to the relationship (good responders, Group G), whereas 21 patients showed negative residuals (poor responders, Group P). Male sex, severe cardiac anomaly, complex surgical procedure, multiple sternotomy, total duration, and self-discontinuation were associated with poor response to the brace by univariate analysis. The first three factors remained with high odds ratio for poor response by multivariate analysis. No adverse events occurred with the brace. Conclusion: Our newly developed compression brace contributed, at least in part, to improve the deformity of the secondary pectus carinatum. Further studies are required to clarify the therapeutic efficacy of anterior chest compression for secondary pectus carinatum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The impact of glucocorticoid administration for adverse events (AEs), including immune-related AEs, on the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) combination therapy for advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains unknown. Objectives: To clarify the prognostic impact of glucocorticoid use for AEs during first-line ICI combination therapy for advanced RCC. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated data from 194 patients who received dual ICI combination therapy [i.e., immunotherapy (IO)–IO] or combinations of ICIs with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) as first-line therapy. The patients were divided into two groups according to the history of glucocorticoid administration in each treatment group. Survival based on glucocorticoid administration was assessed. Results: A total of 101 (52.0%) and 93 (48.0%) patients received IO–IO and IO–TKI combination therapy, respectively. Glucocorticoids were administered to 46 (46%) and 22 (24%) patients in the IO–IO and IO–TKI groups, respectively. In the IO–IO group, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were significantly longer in patients with glucocorticoid administration than in those without administration (median PFS: 14.4 versus 3.45 months, p = 0.0005; median OS: 77.6 versus 33.9 months, p = 0.0025). Multivariable analysis showed that glucocorticoid administration was an independent predictor of longer PFS (hazard ratio: 0.43, p = 0.0005) and OS (hazard ratio: 0.35, p = 0.0067) after adjustment for covariates. In the IO–TKI group, neither PFS nor OS significantly differed between patients treated with and without glucocorticoid administration (PFS: p = 0.0872, OS: p = 0.216). Conclusions: Glucocorticoid administration did not negatively impact the effectiveness of ICI combination therapy for RCC, prompting glucocorticoid treatment use when AEs develop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estimating parameters of drift and diffusion coefficients for multidimensional stochastic delay equations with small noise are considered. The delay structure is written as an integral form with respect to a delay measure. Our contrast function is based on a local-Gauss approximation to the transition probability density of the process. We show consistency and asymptotic normality of the minimum-contrast estimator when a small dispersion coefficient ε → 0 and sample size n → ∞ simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intrahospital transportation (IHT) of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) is common and may have adverse consequences, incurring inherent risks. The data on the frequency and severity of clinical complications linked with IHT are contradictory, and there is no agreement on whether it is safe or potentially challenging for neurocritical care unit patients. Continuous intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring is essential in neurointensive care. The role of ICP monitoring and management of cerebral autoregulation impairments in IHT of patients with severe TBI is underinvestigated. The purpose of this nonrandomized retrospective single-center study was to assess the dynamics of ICP and an improved pressure reactivity index (iPRx) as a measure of autoregulation during IHT. Methods: Seventy-seven men and fourteen women with severe TBI admitted in 2012–2022 with a mean age of 33.2 ± 5.2 years were studied. ICP and arterial pressure were invasively monitored, and cerebral perfusion pressure and iPRx were calculated from the measured parameters. All patients were subjected to dynamic helical computed tomography angiography using a 64-slice scanner Philips Ingenuity computed tomography scan 1–2 days after TBI. Statistical analysis of all results was done using a paired t-test, and p was preset at < 0.05. The logistic regression analysis was performed for cerebral ischemia development dependent on intracranial hypertension and cerebrovascular reactivity. Results: IHT led to an increase in ICP in all the patients, especially during vertical movement in an elevator (maximum 75.2 mm Hg). During the horizontal transportation on the floor, ICP remained increased (p < 0.05). The mean ICP during IHT was significantly higher (26.1 ± 13.5 mm Hg, p < 0.001) than that before the IHT (19.9 ± 5.3 mm Hg). The mean iPRx after and before IHT was 0.52 ± 0.04 and 0.23 ± 0.14, respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Both horizontal and vertical transportation causes a significant increase in ICP and iPRx in patients with severe TBI, potentially leading to the outcome worsening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There have been few reports on the characterization of molybdate and tungstate species in pure water using ESI–MS. Hexameric molybdate anions were reported to be unstable in neutral solution, but to exist in acidic solutions. The monomolybdate anion was found to be stable in pure aqueous solution in the form of [HMoO4]−. Monomeric tungstate was observed as [WO4]2− and [HWO4]− in acidic solution. At low pH, [Mo4O13]2−, [HMo4O13]− and [HW3O10]− were the main molecular species observed. At high pH, hydrolyzed [HMoO4]− and [HWO4]− were detected by mass spectometer. When silicic acid was added to the molybdate solution, [SiMo12O40]4− and [HSiMo12O40]3− were formed from the tetrameric molybdate anion. In addition, monomeric, trimeric, hexameric, heptameric, undecameric and dodecameric polyoxomolybdates were detected in the supernatant solution by ESI mass spectrometry. When silicic acid was added to a tungstate solution, [HSiW12O40]3−, composed of the trimeric tungstate anion was detected. In addition, two pentameric polyoxotungstates as well as tetrameric, hexameric and heptameric polyoxotungstates were present in the supernatant solution, while no monomer or dimer was detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate immunophenotypic profiles of infiltrating cells in surgically excised tissues of chalazion and pyogenic granuloma associated with chalazion. Methods: Eighty-two surgical specimens from 74 consecutive patients newly diagnosed with chalazion or chalazion-associated pyogenic granuloma at Tokyo Medical University Hospital between 2016 and 2022 were studied. Sixty specimens were chalazion lesions and 22 specimens were pyogenic granuloma lesions (from 15 men and 7 women, mean age 36.6 ± 14.4 years). All patients were immunocompetent Asian Japanese adults. Specimens were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. Flow cytometry was performed using the following antibodies: CD3, CD4, CD8, CD11b, CD11c, CD16, CD19, CD20, CD23, CD25, CD34, CD44, CD56, CD69, and CD138. Results: In flow cytometric analysis, the proportion of cells expressing the T cell marker CD3 was significantly higher compared with other immune cells expressing specific markers (p < 0.0001), and the proportion of CD4-positive T cells was significantly higher than that of CD8-positive T cells (p < 0.0001), in both chalazion and pyogenic granuloma specimens. The chalazion and pyogenic granuloma lesions shared similar immunophenotypic profile characterized by predominant T cell infiltration, and CD4 T cells dominating over CD8 cells. The pattern of expression of CD4 and CD8 in the specimens was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Conclusion: The present study demonstrates immunophenotypic features of chalazion and chalazion-associated pyogenic granuloma. Although various inflammatory cells are involved in the pathology of chalazion and pyogenic granuloma, a significantly higher proportion of CD4-positive T cells may be closely related to the pathological mechanisms of both lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combination regimen of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (Atezo/Bev) is currently used as first-line treatment in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Herein, we report a rare case of curative hepatic resection performed as conversion surgery in a patient with intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma following preoperative Atezo/Bev therapy. After five treatment cycles of Atezo/Bev therapy, followed by four cycles of atezolizumab monotherapy, the tumor marker levels decreased to baseline levels and 22 small daughter nodules disappeared, leaving only the primary tumor. Therefore, we performed resection of the primary tumor as conversion surgery, and postoperative histopathology confirmed complete tumor necrosis. No cancer recurrence has been observed until the 5-month postoperative follow-up, and the patient remains drug free. Consistent with the findings in this case, a review of previously reported cases revealed that in cases of successful conversion surgery, neoadjuvant Atezo/Bev therapy was associated with intra-tumoral bleeding, immune-related adverse events, and normalization of the tumor marker levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are few comparative studies on dual immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) (i.e., IO-IO) and combination therapies comprising ICIs plus tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) (i.e., IO-TKI) for advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC), especially in real-world settings. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated data of 175 patients with IMDC intermediate-risk or poor-risk RCC; as first-line therapy, 103 received IO-IO, and 72 received IO-TKI. An inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analysis was conducted to balance patients' backgrounds in the IO-IO and IO-TKI groups. Results: Based on the IPTW analysis, progression-free survival (PFS) was longer in the IO-TKI group than in the IO-IO group (median: 15.6 vs. 8.3 months; p = 0.0386). In contrast, overall survival was not different between groups (median: 46.7 vs. 49.0 months; p = 0.465). Although the IPTW-adjusted objective response rate was not significantly different (51.2% vs. 43.9%; p = 0.359), the progressive disease rate as the best overall response was lower in the IO-TKI group than in the IO-IO group (3.3% vs. 27.4%; p < 0.0001). Regarding the safety profile, the treatment interruption rate was higher in the IO-TKI group than in the IO-IO group (70.3% vs. 49.2%; p = 0.005). In contrast, the IO-IO group had a higher corticosteroid administration rate (43.3% vs. 20.3%; p = 0.001). Conclusion: IO-TKI therapy exhibited superior effectiveness over IO-IO therapy in terms of PFS improvement and immediate disease progression prevention and was associated with a higher risk of treatment interruption and a lower risk of needing corticosteroids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supertubes are supersymmetric configurations in string theory in which branes are extending along a closed curve. For a supertube of codimension two, its dipole charge is characterized by the duality monodromy around the closed curve. When multiple codimension-2 supertubes are present, the monodromies around different supertubes can be non-commuting, namely non-Abelian. Non-Abelian configurations of supertubes are expected to play an important role in non-perturbative physics of string theory, especially black holes. In this paper, in the framework of five-dimensional supergravity, we construct exact solutions describing codimension-2 supertubes in three-dimensional space. We use an extension formula to construct a three-dimensional solution from a two-dimensional seed solution. The two-dimensional seed is an F-theory like configuration in which a torus is nontrivially fibered over a complex plane. In the first example, there is a stack of circular supertubes around which there is a non-trivial monodromy. In some cases this can be thought of as a microstate of a black hole in AdS2 × S2. The second example is an axi-symmetric solution with two stacks of circular supertubes with non-Abelian monodromies. In addition, there is a continuous distribution of charges on the symmetry axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent years have seen rapid development of descriptor generation based on representation learning of extremely diverse molecules, especially those that apply natural language processing (NLP) models to SMILES, a literal representation of molecular structure. However, little research has been done on how these models understand chemical structure. To address this black box, we investigated the relationship between the learning progress of SMILES and chemical structure using a representative NLP model, the Transformer. We show that while the Transformer learns partial structures of molecules quickly, it requires extended training to understand overall structures. Consistently, the accuracy of molecular property predictions using descriptors generated from models at different learning steps was similar from the beginning to the end of training. Furthermore, we found that the Transformer requires particularly long training to learn chirality and sometimes stagnates with low performance due to misunderstanding of enantiomers. These findings are expected to deepen the understanding of NLP models in chemistry. There has been limited research on how NLP models comprehend diverse chemical structures despite its popularity. Here, the authors examine the learning process of Transformer for chemical structures and show inherent issues for chirality recognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid and precise creation of complex molecules while controlling multiple selectivities is the principal objective in synthetic chemistry. Combining data science and organic synthesis to achieve this goal is an emerging trend, but few examples of successful reaction designs are reported. We develop an artificial neural network regression model using bond orbital data to predict chemical reactivities. Actual experimental verification confirms cycloheptatriene-selective [6 + 2]-cycloaddition utilizing nitroso compounds and norcaradiene-selective [4 + 2]-cycloaddition reactions employing benzynes. Additionally, a one-pot asymmetric synthesis is achieved by telescoping the enantioselective dearomatization of non-activated benzenes and cycloadditions. Computational studies provide a rational explanation for the seemingly anomalous occurrence of thermally prohibited suprafacial [6 + 2]-cycloaddition without photoirradiation.Combining data science and organic synthesis to achieve the rapid and precise creation of complex molecules while controlling multiple selectivities is an emerging trend, but few successful examples are reported. Here, the authors develop an artificial neural network regression model using bond orbital data to predict chemical reactivities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Plaque stiffness in carotid artery stenosis is a clinically important factor involved in the development of stroke and surgical complications. The purpose of this study was to clarify which local and systemic factors are associated with the quantitatively measured stiffness of plaque. Methods: The subjects were 104 consecutive patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy at our institution. To measure quantitative stiffness of plaque, we used an industrial hard meter in the operating room within 1 h after removal of plaque. Local factors related to carotid plaque hardness were evaluated, including maximum intima–media thickness (max IMT), degree of stenosis using the European Carotid Surgery Trial (ECST), presence of ulceration or calcification, and echo brightness on preoperative carotid ultrasound. The degree of stenosis was also evaluated using the North American Symptomatic Carotid Endarterectomy Trial method in digital subtraction angiography. Age, sex, and presence or absence of hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride [TG] levels) served as systemic factors and were compared with the quantitative stiffness of carotid plaque. Results: In multivariate analysis, ECST stenosis degree, calcification, and IMT max as local factors affected plaque stiffness. As a systemic factor, plaque stiffness was statistically significantly negatively correlated with TG values in multivariate analysis (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The quantitative stiffness of the plaque was negatively correlated with TG levels as a systemic factor in addition to local factors. This might suggest that reducing high TG levels is associated with plaque stabilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given possible involvement of the central and peripheral angiotensin system in pain processing, we conducted clinical and preclinical studies to test whether pharmacological inhibition of the angiotensin system would prevent diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) accompanying type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In the preclinical study, the nociceptive sensitivity was determined in leptin-deficient ob/ob mice, a T2DM model. A clinical retrospective cohort study was conducted, using the medical records of T2DM patients receiving antihypertensives at three hospitals for nearly a decade. In the ob/ob mice, daily treatment with perindopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI), or telmisartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), but not amlodipine, an L-type calcium channel blocker (CaB), significantly inhibited DPN development without affecting the hyperglycemia. In the clinical study, the enrolled 7464 patients were divided into three groups receiving ACEIs, ARBs and the others (non-ACEI, non-ARB antihypertensives). Bonferroni's test indicated significantly later DPN development in the ARB and ACEI groups than the others group. The multivariate Cox proportional analysis detected significant negative association of the prescription of ACEIs or ARBs and β-blockers, but not CaBs or diuretics, with DPN development. Thus, our study suggests that pharmacological inhibition of the angiotensin system is beneficial to prevent DPN accompanying T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Insulin degludec (degludec) is a basal insulin with a long duration of action. This post-marketing surveillance study monitored safety and glycemic control during use of degludec for 3 years in normal clinical practice in Japan. Materials and methods: This multicenter, open-label, observational study included patients with diabetes receiving degludec in Japan between 2013 and 2019. The primary outcome was incidence of adverse events occurring over 3 years of treatment. The pre-specified, secondary outcomes were severe hypoglycemic episodes and changes in HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose levels. Results: Of 4167 patients enrolled, 4022 were included in the safety assessments and 3918 in the assessments of glycemic control. Mean age was 58.9 years; 74.1% of patients had type 2 diabetes, and mean HbA1c at baseline was 8.7%. Adverse events and serious adverse events were observed in 19.1% and 8.9% of patients, respectively. Cardiac disorders and neoplasms were reported in 2.0% and 1.8% of patients, respectively, with the majority of these incidents reported as serious adverse events. Adverse drug reactions were seen in 8.0% of patients, mainly hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemic events were observed in 5.6% of patients, and severe hypoglycemic events in 1.7%. No serious allergic or injection-site reactions were seen. Respective changes (from baseline to 3 years' observation) in HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose levels were − 0.55% and − 36.3 mg/dL, and 19.6% of patients reached HbA1c < 7.0%. Conclusions: Using degludec for 3 years in normal clinical practice had a good safety and tolerability profile. Improvements in glycemic control were also seen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forward genetic screens of mutated variants are a versatile strategy for protein engineering and investigation, which has been successfully applied to various studies like directed evolution (DE) and deep mutational scanning (DMS). While next-generation sequencing can track millions of variants during the screening rounds, the vast and noisy nature of the sequencing data impedes the estimation of the performance of individual variants. Here, we propose ACIDES that combines statistical inference and in-silico simulations to improve performance estimation in the library selection process by attributing accurate statistical scores to individual variants. We tested ACIDES first on a random-peptide-insertion experiment and then on multiple public datasets from DE and DMS studies. ACIDES allows experimentalists to reliably estimate variant performance on the fly and can aid protein engineering and research pipelines in a range of applications, including gene therapy. Screening mutated proteins is a versatile strategy in protein research, producing massive datasets when combined with NGS. Here, authors present ACIDES to estimate mutated protein fitness and aid protein engineering pipelines in a range of applications, including gene therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to compare the prognostic impacts of adenocarcinoma subtypes, programmed death-ligand I (PD-L1), and CD155 expression on patients with resected pathological stage (p-stage) I lung adenocarcinoma. In total, 353 patients with completely resected p-stage I lung adenocarcinomas were retrospectively reviewed. The expression levels of PD-L1 and CD155 in tumour cells from each adenocarcinoma subtype were evaluated using several clinicopathological and histological features, such as the presence of a micropapillary pattern. A total of 52 patients (14.7%) had PD-L1-positive tumours, whereas 128 patients (36.3%) had CD155-positive tumours, with a tumour proportion score of 5% for both PD-L1 and CD155 expression. Compared with patients with other adenocarcinoma subtypes, those with solid-predominant adenocarcinomas were significantly more positive for PD-L1 and CD155. Multivariate analysis showed that PD-L1 expression status was significantly associated with progression-free survival and overall survival, whereas CD155 expression and the presence of a micropapillary pattern were not significantly associated with either parameter. Patients with PD-L1-positive tumours had poorer prognoses than those with CD155-positive tumours. Moreover, PD-L1 and CD155 were significantly expressed in solid-predominant adenocarcinomas. The results of this study suggest that immune checkpoint inhibitors can be used as adjuvants in the treatment of patients with p-stage I adenocarcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose an artificial intelligence prediction method for extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy treatment outcomes by analysis of a wide variety of variables. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 171 patients from between January 2009 and November 2019 that underwent shock wave lithotripsy at Wakayama Medical University, Japan, for ureteral stones shown on preoperative non-contrast computed tomography. This prediction method consisted of stone area extraction, stone analyzing factor extraction from non-contrast computed tomography images, and shock wave lithotripsy treatment result prediction by a non-linear support vector machine for analysis of 15 input and automatic measurement factors. Input factors included patient age, skin-to-stone distance, and maximum ureteral wall thickness, and the automatic measurement factors included 11 non-contrast computed tomography image texture factors in the stone area and stone volume. Permutation feature importance was also applied to the artificial intelligence prediction results to analyze the importance of each factor relating to estimate decision grounds. The prediction performance was evaluated by five-fold cross-validation, it obtained 0.742 of the mean area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. The proposed method is shown by these results to have robust data diversity and effective clinical application. As a result of permutation feature importance, some factors that showed high p-values in the significant difference tests were thought to have a high contribution to the proposed prediction method. Future issues include validation using a larger volume of high-resolution clinical non-contrast computed tomography image data and the application of deep learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitzschia is one of the largest genera of diatoms found in a range of aquatic environments, from freshwater to seawater. This genus contains evolutionarily and ecologically unique species, such as those that have lost photosynthetic capacity or those that live symbiotically in dinoflagellates. Several Nitzschia species have been used as indicators of water pollution. Recently, Nitzschia species have attracted considerable attention in the field of biotechnology. In this study, a transformation method for the marine pennate diatom Nitzschia sp. strain NIES-4635, isolated from the coastal Seto Inland Sea, was established. Plasmids containing the promoter/terminator of the fucoxanthin chlorophyll a/c binding protein gene (fcp, or Lhcf) derived from Nitzschia palea were constructed and introduced into cells by multi-pulse electroporation, resulting in 500 μg/mL nourseothricin-resistant transformants with transformation frequencies of up to 365 colonies per 108 cells. In addition, when transformation was performed using a new plasmid containing a promoter derived from a diatom-infecting virus upstream of the green fluorescent protein gene (gfp), 44% of the nourseothricin-resistant clones exhibited GFP fluorescence. The integration of the genes introduced into the genomes of the transformants was confirmed by Southern blotting. The Nitzschia transformation method established in this study will enable the transformation this species, thus allowing the functional analysis of genes from the genus Nitzschia, which are important species for environmental and biotechnological development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose was to investigate air-kerma area product (PKA) and entrance surface air-kerma rate ( K ˙ a,e) on the effect of the shape of automatic dose rate control (ADRC) in the presence of a wedge compensation filter. We compared and evaluated the variability of the X-ray output using a combination of wedge compensation filters and the ADRC. Two ADRC shapes (round and square) and three poly-methyl-methacrylate thicknesses (15, 20, and 25 cm) were used. A wedge compensation filter was inserted 2 cm at a time, up to 6 cm. When the wedge compensation filter was inserted to 6 cm for 20 cm of poly-methyl-methacrylate, the X-ray output fluctuated significantly. The PKA was reduced by 39% when the wedge compensation filter was inserted to 6 cm and by 59% when it was inserted to 4 cm under round-type for 20 cm poly-methyl-methacrylate. The shape of the ADRC affects K ˙ a,e and PKA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) in liver failure (LF) patients can lead to citrate accumulation. We aimed to evaluate serum levels of citrate and correlate them with liver function markers and with the Cat/Cai in patients under intensive care and undergoing continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration with regional citrate anticoagulation (CVVHDF-RCA). A prospective cohort study in an intensive care unit was conducted. We compared survival, clinical, laboratorial and dialysis data between patients with and without LF. Citrate was measured daily. We evaluated 200 patients, 62 (31%) with LF. Citrate was significantly higher in the LF group. Dialysis dose, filter lifespan, systemic ionized calcium and Cat/Cai were similar between groups. There were weak to moderate positive correlations between Citrate and indicators of liver function and Cat/Cai. The LF group had higher mortality (70.5% vs. 51.8%, p = 0.014). Citrate was an independent risk factor for death, OR 11.3 (95% CI 2.74–46.8). In conclusion, hypercitratemia was an independent risk factor for death in individuals undergoing CVVHDF-ARC. The increase in citrate was limited in the LF group, without clinical significance. The correlation between citrate and liver function indicators was weak to moderate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) were treated in an ultrahigh-pressure homogenizer (UHPH) in the thermal imprinting process. After 20 passes, UHPH-treated CNFs with concentrations of 1, 2, and 5 wt% were used to reinforce polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and PVA/CNF composite films were fabricated by solvent casting. The composite films were subjected to thermal imprinting using a fluoropolymer-treated nickel–phosphorus mold with various line/space micropatterns at different mold temperatures. In addition, the effect of the CNF contents on the viscoelastic behavior, thermomechanical properties, thermal dimensional stability, surface properties, and replication performance of the PVA/CNF composites were investigated. The viscoelastic properties and induced stiffness were improved as a result of the solid-like behavior and CNF network structure, and the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) decreased with the increase in the CNF content. The low modulus of the film at thermal imprinting temperatures increased transferability, while the high stiffness, molecular recovery, and low CTE of the composites secured the micropatterns and increased the replication quality of the thermal imprinted PVA/CNF composite films. Results suggested that the addition of CNFs can improve the processability of the thermal imprinting process. Notably, the high replication of films for all micropatterns was observed at a CNF content of 5 wt%. Nevertheless, the narrow micropattern of 5 wt% CNFs could be thermally imprinted at a temperature of less than 120 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to develop a new workflow for 1.5-T magnetic resonance (MR)-guided on-line adaptive radiation therapy (MRgART) and assess its feasibility in achieving dose constraints. Materials and methods: We retrospectively evaluated the clinical data of patients who underwent on-line adaptive radiation therapy using a 1.5-T MR linear accelerator (MR-Linac). The workflow in MRgART was established by reviewing the disease site, number of fractions, and re-planning procedures. Five cases of prostate cancer were selected to evaluate the feasibility of the new workflow with respect to achieving dose constraints. Results: Between December 2021 and September 2022, 50 consecutive patients underwent MRgART using a 1.5-T MR-Linac. Of these, 20 had prostate cancer, 10 had hepatocellular carcinoma, 6 had pancreatic cancer, 5 had lymph node oligo-metastasis, 3 had renal cancer, 3 had bone metastasis, 2 had liver metastasis from colon cancer, and 1 had a mediastinal tumor. Among a total of 247 fractions, 235 (95%) were adapt-to-shape (ATS)-based re-planning. The median ATS re-planning time in all 50 cases was 17 min. In the feasibility study, all dose constraint sets were met in all 5 patients by ATS re-planning. Conversely, a total of 14 dose constraints in 5 patients could not be achieved by virtual plan without using adaptive re-planning. These dose constraints included the minimum dose received by the highest irradiated volume of 1 cc in the planning target volume and the maximum dose of the rectal/bladder wall. Conclusion: A new workflow of 1.5-T MRgART was established and found to be feasible. Our evaluation of the dose constraint achievement demonstrated the effectiveness of the workflow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The consistency of intracranial meningiomas is an important clinical factor because it affects the success of surgical resection. This study aimed at identifying and quantitatively measuring pathological factors that contribute to the consistency of meningiomas. Furthermore, we investigated the relationship between these factors and preoperative neuroradiological imaging. Methods: We analyzed 42 intracranial meningioma specimens, which had been removed at our institution between October 2012 and March 2018. Consistency was measured quantitatively after resection using an industrial stiffness meter. For pathological evaluation, we quantitatively measured the collagen-fiber content through binarization of images of Azan-Mallory-stained section. We assessed calcification and necrosis semi-quantitatively using images acquired of Hematoxylin and Eosin stained samples. The relationship between collagen-fiber content rate and imaging findings was examined. Results: The content of collagen fibers significantly positively correlated with meningioma consistency (p < 0.0001). Collagen-fiber content was significantly higher in low- and iso-intensity regions compared with high-intensity regions on the magnetic resonance T2-weighted images (p = 0.0148 and p = 0.0394, respectively). Calcification and necrosis showed no correlation with tumor consistency. Conclusions: The quantitative hardness of intracranial meningiomas positively correlated with collagen-fiber content; thus, the amount of collagen fibers may be a factor that determines the hardness of intracranial meningiomas. Our results demonstrate that T2-weighted images reflect the collagen-fiber content and are useful for estimating tumor consistency preoperatively and non-invasively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review was performed to investigate the superiority of proton beam therapy (PBT) to photon-based radiotherapy (RT) in treating esophageal cancer patients, especially those with poor cardiopulmonary function. The MEDLINE (PubMed) and ICHUSHI (Japana Centra Revuo Medicina) databases were searched from January 2000 to August 2020 for studies evaluating one end point at least as follows; overall survival, progression-free survival, grade ≥ 3 cardiopulmonary toxicities, dose-volume histograms, or lymphopenia or absolute lymphocyte counts (ALCs) in esophageal cancer patients treated with PBT or photon-based RT. Of 286 selected studies, 23 including 1 randomized control study, 2 propensity matched analyses, and 20 cohort studies were eligible for qualitative review. Overall survival and progression-free survival were better after PBT than after photon-based RT, but the difference was significant in only one of seven studies. The rate of grade 3 cardiopulmonary toxicities was lower after PBT (0–13%) than after photon-based RT (7.1–30.3%). Dose-volume histograms revealed better results for PBT than photon-based RT. Three of four reports evaluating the ALC demonstrated a significantly higher ALC after PBT than after photon-based RT. Our review found that PBT resulted in a favorable trend in the survival rate and had an excellent dose distribution, contributing to reduced cardiopulmonary toxicities and a maintained number of lymphocytes. These results warrant novel prospective trials to validate the clinical evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occipital transtentorial approach (OTA) is one of the useful approaches to the lesions of the pineal region, dorsal brainstem, and supracerebellar region. However, a wide operative field is sometimes difficult to obtain due to the tentorial sinus and bridging veins. This study evaluated the usefulness of preoperative simulation of OTA, specifically including the cerebellar tentorium in 9 patients. All patients underwent computed tomography angiography and venography and gadolinium-enhanced three-dimensional T1-weighted magnetic resonance images (Gd-3D-T1WI). The images were fused, and the cerebellar tentorium, vessels, and tumor were manually extracted from Gd-3D-T1WI to obtain the simulation images. Visualization of the cerebellar tentorium could discriminate between bridging veins from the occipital lobe and cerebellum, and recognize the site of bridging to the tentorial sinus and variants which may interfere with the tentorial incision. Simulation of the tentorial incision was also possible based on the relationships between the tumor, tentorial sinus, bridging vein, and cerebellar tentorium. The simulation suggested that safe tentorial incision was difficult in two sides because of the crossed tentorial sinus draining the left basal vein and draining veins from the glioblastoma. The OTA was performed in eight cases, and no difficulty was experienced in the tentorial incision in all cases. The simulation findings of the bridging vein and tentorial sinus were consistent with the intraoperative findings. Preoperative simulation including the cerebellar tentorium is useful for determining the optimum and safe side and required extent of the tentorial incision necessary for tumor resection with the OTA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin resistance is the primary pathophysiology underlying metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes1,2. Previous metagenomic studies have described the characteristics of gut microbiota and their roles in metabolizing major nutrients in insulin resistance3–9. In particular, carbohydrate metabolism of commensals has been proposed to contribute up to 10% of the host’s overall energy extraction10, thereby playing a role in the pathogenesis of obesity and prediabetes3,4,6. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here we investigate this relationship using a comprehensive multi-omics strategy in humans. We combine unbiased faecal metabolomics with metagenomics, host metabolomics and transcriptomics data to profile the involvement of the microbiome in insulin resistance. These data reveal that faecal carbohydrates, particularly host-accessible monosaccharides, are increased in individuals with insulin resistance and are associated with microbial carbohydrate metabolisms and host inflammatory cytokines. We identify gut bacteria associated with insulin resistance and insulin sensitivity that show a distinct pattern of carbohydrate metabolism, and demonstrate that insulin-sensitivity-associated bacteria ameliorate host phenotypes of insulin resistance in a mouse model. Our study, which provides a comprehensive view of the host–microorganism relationships in insulin resistance, reveals the impact of carbohydrate metabolism by microbiota, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for ameliorating insulin resistance.Faecal carbohydrates, particularly host-accessible monosaccharides, are increased in individuals with insulin resistance and are associated with microbial carbohydrate metabolisms and host inflammatory cytokines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In the event of failed tracheostomy decannulation, patients might have a tragic course of events. We retrospectively evaluated our stepwise tracheostomy decannulation program and examined its safety. Methods: A 12-year retrospective study of pediatric patients was conducted. The decannulation program was performed on patients who had airway patency by laryngobronchoscopy and whose cannula could be capped during the day. A stepwise decannulation program was performed: continuous 48-h capping trial during hospitalization (Phase 1), removal of the tracheostomy tube for 48 h during hospitalization (Phase 2), and outpatient observation (Phase 3). If a persistent tracheocutaneous fistula existed, the fistula was closed by surgery (Phase 4). Results: The 77 patients in the study underwent 86 trials. The age at the first time of the decannulation program was 6.5 ± 3.6 years. Sixteen trials failed (18.6%): 8 trials in Phase 1, 2 trials in Phase 2, 4 trials in Phase 3, and 2 trials in Phase 4. Most decannulation failures were due to desaturation in Phase 1/2 and dyspnea in Phase 3/4. The time to reintubation after decannulation was 15–383 days in Phase 3/4. Conclusions: Patients could fail at every phase of the program, suggesting that a stepwise decannulation program contributes to safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An important ecosystem function of vegetation on riverbanks is the control of soil erosion. Riverbanks also offer potential semi-natural habitats for grassland species. Previous classification of riverbank vegetation in Japan ignored both seasonal changes of dominant species and species composition, offering no information on ecosystem functions. Here we aimed at clarifying the association between dominant species, vegetation composition and species attributes in spring and autumn. We surveyed vegetation in 125 plots on a riverbank in Japan. We identified seven vegetation types on the basis of dominant species in autumn. Imperata cylindrica var. koenigii (Type I) and Pleioblastus chino (Type P) dominated their vegetation year-round. Dominant species changed seasonally in the other five vegetation types, but Lolium multiflorum was dominant in spring. Since the dominance of annuals is linked to fast turnover of root systems and thus poor control of soil erosion, Types P and I are superior in controlling soil erosion. Both the total number of species and the number of grassland species were small, showing species-poor grasslands in all vegetation types. There were no clear differences in numbers of species between species attributes. Nevertheless, this classification was linked to differences in species composition, reflecting several representative species in each vegetation type. Type P has more indigenous representative species and typical grassland species. Since some representative species may be suitable for natural processes (e.g., for pollination), this classification reflects biodiversity functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and objective: Lung immune prognostic index score (LIPI), calculated using the derived neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio and lactate dehydrogenase level, is reported for use in numerous malignancies, while its role on metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) treated with pembrolizumab remains limited. We aimed to investigate association between LIPI and outcomes in this setting. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 90 patients with mUC treated with pembrolizumab at four institutions. The associations between three LIPI groups and progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), objective response rates (ORRs) or disease control rates (DCRs) were assessed. Results: Based on the LIPI, good, intermediate, and poor groups were observed in 41 (45.6%), 33 (36.7%), and 16 (17.8%) patients, respectively. The PFS and OS were significantly correlated with the LIPI (median PFS: 21.2 vs. 7.0 vs. 4.0 months, p = 0.001; OS: 44.3 vs. 15.0 vs. 4.2 months, p < 0.001 in the LIPI good vs. intermediate vs. poor groups). Multivariable analysis further revealed that LIPI good (vs. intermediate or poor, hazard ratio: 0.44, p = 0.004) and performance status = 0 (p = 0.015) were independent predictors of a longer PFS. In addition, LIPI good (hazard ratio: 0.29, p < 0.001) were shown to be associated with a longer OS together with performance status = 0 (p < 0.001). The ORRs tended to be different among patients with Good LIPI compared with Poor, and DCRs were significantly different among the three groups. Conclusions: LIPI, a simple and convenient score, could be a significant prognostic biomarker of OS, PFS, and DCRs for mUC treated with pembrolizumab. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kampé de Fériet hypergeometric functions are two-variable hypergeometric functions, which are a generalization of Appell's functions. It is known that they satisfy many reduction and summation formulas. In this paper, we define Kampé de Fériet hypergeometric functions over finite fields and show analogous formulas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute diaphragmatic hernia is a life-threatening condition caused by prolapse of an abdominal organ into the thoracic cavity through a defect in the diaphragm. We present herein a case of acquired diaphragmatic hernia following a peritoneal biopsy for gastric cancer dissemination in the diaphragm. Case presentation: A 72-year-old, female patient presented with a complaint of acute abdomen 10 months after receiving a diagnosis of stage IV gastric cancer with peritoneal dissemination based on peritoneal biopsy findings during staging laparoscopy. Computed tomography demonstrated herniation of the small intestine into the thoracic cavity. Emergency surgery was performed, and a full-thickness diaphragmatic defect was found intraoperatively at the same location as the previous, peritoneal biopsy. The incarcerated small intestine was atraumatically repositioned into the abdominal cavity, and the defect was closed laparoscopically using an absorbable barbed suture. Conclusions: Although complications of staging laparoscopy are extremely rare, excising disseminated nodules from the diaphragm carries the risk of diaphragmatic hernia. For this reason, avoiding excision is desirable unless a diaphragmatic biopsy is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type II polyketide synthases (PKSs) normally synthesize polycyclic aromatic compounds in nature, and the potential to elaborate further diverse skeletons was recently revealed by the discovery of a polyene subgroup. Here, we show a type II PKS machinery for the biosynthesis of a five-membered nonaromatic skeleton contained in the nonproteinogenic amino acid cispentacin and the plant toxin coronatine. We successfully produce cispentacin in a heterologous host and reconstruct its biosynthesis using seven recombinant proteins in vitro. Biochemical analyses of each protein reveal the unique enzymatic reactions, indicating that a heterodimer of type II PKS-like enzymes (AmcF–AmcG) catalyzes a single C2 elongation as well as a subsequent cyclization on the acyl carrier protein (AmcB) to form a key intermediate with a five-membered ring. The subsequent reactions, which are catalyzed by a collection of type II PKS-like enzymes, are also peculiar. This work further expands the definition of type II PKS and illuminates an unexplored genetic resource for natural products.Type II polyketide synthases (PKSs) normally synthesize polycyclic aromatic compounds, but the potential for the synthesis of further diverse skeletons remains under investigated. Here, the authors report the discovery of the type II PKS machinery for the biosynthesis of a five-membered nonaromatic skeleton contained in the nonproteinogenic amino acid cispentacin and the plant toxin coronatine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tris(tetra-armed cyclen) with three cyclens linearly linked (1a) and pentakis(tetra-armed cyclen) with four cyclens linked to the central cyclen (1b) have been prepared. These structures of the ligands were confirmed by 1H and 13C{1H} NMR, CSI-MS, and elemental analysis. Upon addition of Ag+ to these novel ligands, we observed the formation of 1:1 to 1:3 (= 1a:Ag+) complexes and 1:1 to 1:5 (= 1b:Ag+) complexes, respectively, according to stoichiometry. The association constants for 1a and 1b with Ag+ using titration experiments with UV–vis spectroscopy were also estimated. Logβ1, logβ2, and logβ3 of 1a were 6.4, 14, and 21, respectively, while logβ1, logβ2, logβ3, logβ4, and logβ5 of 1b were 6.8, 13, 19, 24, and 29, respectively. The association constants obtained from experiments revealed that all cyclen units within the molecules formed complexes with Ag+ that exhibited nearly identical association constants. The result suggests that the ligands have a uniform binding affinity for Ag+ throughout their structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated hydrographic conditions in Tokyo Bay recorded from 1992 to 2019 by the training vessel Seiyo Maru (retired in October 2021). We reviewed the basic features of hydrographic conditions discussed in the literature. The long-term trend of temperature differed from that reported in previous studies. The rates of temperature increase estimated in this study were 0.04–0.07 °C /year in the inner bay of Tokyo Bay. These rates were the same as those reported in other areas worldwide. The heat budget in the inner bay of Tokyo Bay also increased significantly from 2004 to 2019; this increase was related to the decrease in the loss of latent heat because of the increases of the atmospheric temperature and the decreases of wind speed. Because formation of the Tokyo Bay thermohaline front has been affected by the increase of water temperature and because the temperature increases have differed between months, the program of monthly monitoring should be continued to document future environmental changes in Tokyo Bay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oscillation cycle and intensity in each part of the pelagic longline were investigated in Sagami Bay, Japan, to evaluate the effect on bait loss. The results of three longline operations were analyzed. The longline consisted of 25 ordinary and 15 midwater float baskets, with six branch lines per basket. Acceleration loggers were attached to the upper end (main float) and lower end of the float line, and the hook of the first and third branch lines. A depth logger was attached to the upper and lower ends of the branch line (hook). A video logger was attached, facing downward at a position 0.6 m above the hook. The periodicity of the oscillation was clarified by autocorrelation analysis, and the sum of the absolute values of the dynamic acceleration of the three axes (ODBA) was compared. From the video footage and autocorrelation analyses, the oscillation cycle of the hooks was approximately 3 s, which is the same as that of the main float. The ODBA of the first hook was 1.9–2.3 m/s2, which was significantly larger than the main float (1.1–1.4 m/s2) and the third hook (0.2–1.8 m/s2, p < 0.001). Therefore, the oscillation of the hook was derived from the vertical movement of the main float due to the wave, and it decreased as the distance from the main float increased. The third hook in the midwater float basket had an unclear cycle, and the ODBA was significantly smaller than that of the ordinary baskets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To report the long-term quality assurance (QA) experience of an on-rail computed tomography (CT) system for image-guided radiotherapy using an in-house phantom. An on-rail CT system combining the Elekta Synergy and Canon Aquilion LB was used. The treatment couch was shared by the linear accelerators and CT, and the couch was rotated by 180° when using the on-rail-CT system to ensure that the CT direction was toward the head. All QA analyses were performed by radiation technologists on CBCT or on-rail CT images of the in-house phantom. The CBCT center accuracy from the linac laser, couch rotational accuracy (CBCT center vs. on-rail CT center), horizontal accuracy by CT gantry shift, and remote couch shift accuracy were evaluated. This study reported the QA status of the system during the period 2014–2021. The absolute mean accuracy of couch rotation was 0.4 ± 0.28 mm, 0.44 ± 0.36 mm, and 0.37 ± 0.27 mm in the SI, RL, and AP directions, respectively. Horizontal and remote movement accuracies of the treatment couch were also within 0.5 mm of the absolute mean value. A decrease in the accuracy of couch rotation was also observed due to aging deterioration of related parts caused by the frequent use of couch rotation. The three-dimensional accuracy of on-rail CT systems derived mainly from treatment couches can be maintained within 0.5 mm with appropriate accuracy assurance for at least > 8 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the biotransformation mechanisms of toxic sulfur-containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PASH) pollutants such as benzothiophene (BT) is useful for predicting their environmental fates. In the natural environment, nondesulfurizing hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria are major active contributors to PASH biodegradation at petroleum-contaminated sites; however, BT biotransformation pathways by this group of bacteria are less explored when compared to desulfurizing organisms. When a model nondesulfurizing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-degrading soil bacterium, Sphingobium barthaii KK22, was investigated for its ability to cometabolically biotransform BT by quantitative and qualitative methods, BT was depleted from culture media but was biotransformed into mostly high molar mass (HMM) hetero and homodimeric ortho-substituted diaryl disulfides (diaryl disulfanes). HMM diaryl disulfides have not been reported as biotransformation products of BT. Chemical structures were proposed for the diaryl disulfides by comprehensive mass spectrometry analyses of the chromatographically separated products and were supported by the identification of transient upstream BT biotransformation products, which included benzenethiols. Thiophenic acid products were also identified, and pathways that described BT biotransformation and novel HMM diaryl disulfide formation were constructed. This work shows that nondesulfurizing hydrocarbon-degrading organisms produce HMM diaryl disulfides from low molar mass polyaromatic sulfur heterocycles, and this may be taken into consideration when predicting the environmental fates of BT pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motivation, defined as the energizing of behavior in pursuit of a goal, is a fundamental element of our interaction with the world and with each other. Furthermore, as it is known that cooperation leads to higher levels of performance than do individual conditions, empathic concern is also crucial to all forms of helping relationships. A growing number of studies indicate that motivation and empathy are associated not only with organizational performance and study achievements, but also with the human brain. However, to date, no definite neuroimaging-derived measures are available to measure motivation and empathy objectively. The current research evaluated the association of motivation and empathy with the whole brain using the gray-matter brain healthcare quotient (GM-BHQ), an MRI-based quotient. Participants were 47 healthy adults. All subjects underwent structural T1-weighted imaging. Motivation levels were evaluated using four motivation scales: Behavioral Activation System (BAS), Self-Monitoring Scale (SMS), Self-Control Scale (SCS), and Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS). Interaction levels, including empathic concern, were evaluated using four subscales of the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI). It was found that the GM-BHQ was most significantly sensitive to the BAS scale (p = 0.002). Furthermore, the GM-BHQ was moderately sensitive to the SMS (p = 0.028) and subscales of the IRI (p = 0.044 for Fantasy and p = 0.036 for Empathic Concern). However, no significant association was found between the GM-BHQ and other variables (BIS and SCS). These results suggest that the GM-BHQ might reflect motivation and empathic concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]