bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inverse design of microwave waveguide devices based on deep physics-informed neural networks
Authors: Liu Jin-Pin , Wang Bing-Zhong , Chen Chuan-Sheng , Wang Ren ,   Institute of Applied Physics, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China
Published: February 2023

Using physics-informed neural networks to solve physical inverse problems is becoming a trend. However, it is difficult to solve the scheme that only introduces physical knowledge through the loss function. Constructing a reasonable loss function to make the results converge becomes a challenge. To address the challenge of physics-informed neural network models for inverse design of electromagnetic devices, a deep physics-informed neural network is introduced by using the mode matching method. The physical equations have been integrated into the network structure when the network is constructed. This feature makes the deep physics-informed neural network have a more concise loss function and higher computational efficiency when solving physical inverse problems. In addition, the training parameters of deep physics-informed neural networks are physically meaningful compared with those of traditional physics-informed neural networks. Users can control the network by parameters more easily. Taking the scattering parameter design of a two-port waveguide for example, we present a new metal topology inverse design scheme and give a detailed explanation. In numerical experiments, we target a set of physically realizable scattering parameters and inversely design the metallic septum by using a deep physics-informed neural network. The results show that the method can not only achieve the design target but also obtain solutions with different topologies. The establishment of multiple solutions is extremely valuable in implementing the inverse design. It can allow the designer to determine the size and location of the design area more freely while achieving the performance requirements. This scheme is expected to promote the application and development of the inverse design of electromagnetic devices.
Taguchi-RBF Neural networks Based Optimization of Phased Array Antenna With Coupling Effects
Authors: Oureghi K. , Ghayoula R. , Amara W. , Smida A. , El Gmati I. , Fattahi J.
Published: February 2023

In the antenna array synthesis problems, most of the works in literature utilize isotropic elements. Thus, the mutual coupling effects between the array elements are neglected. It is obvious that an array antenna synthesized by neglecting the coupling effects cannot be used in the real world applications due to the possible mismatch between the desired and realized radiation patterns. In this paper, a novel method based on neural network algorithm RBF (Radial Basis Function ) for the synthesis and model of Antipodal Vivaldi antenna with mutual coupling effect is presented. The synthesis in implementation’s method for this type of array permits to approach the appropriated radiation pattern while considering the mutual coupling between its elements. The neural network is used to estimate the array elements’ excitations. The architecture of the neural network based on the radial basis functions (RBFs) is introduced and simulation results are presented. Results show that there is an agreement between the desired specifications and the synthesized one. The proposed optimization approach offers an efficient and robust synthesis procedure.
Epidemiological profiles and pathogenicity of Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium clinical isolates in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Pei-Yun , Chan Shang-Yih , Stern Arnold , Chen Po-Hsiang , Yang Hung-Chi
Published: February 2023

The emerging Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE-fm) is an opportunistic pathogen causing nosocomial infections. The identification of VRE-fm is important for successful prevention and control in healthcare settings. VRE-fm clinical isolates obtained from regional hospitals in northern Taiwan were characterized for antimicrobial susceptibility, virulence genes and biofilm production. Most isolates exhibited multi-drug resistance and carried the virulence genes, esp and hyl. While all isolates produce biofilms, those isolates that carried esp exhibited greater biofilm production. Isolates with different virulence gene carriages were examined for pathogenicity by using a nematode model, Caenorhabditis elegans, for determining microbial-host interactions. The survival assay showed that C. elegans was susceptible to Linezolid-resistant VRE-fm isolates with hyl. Combining the molecular epidemiological profiles regarding pathogenesis in C. elegans can serve as a guide for physicians in limiting opportunistic infections caused by VRE-fm.
Modelo de apoio à decisão para o planejamento tático do agricultor familiar do Distrito Federal para o programa de cestas verdes
Authors: Fuzikawa Emily Kaori , Dos Reis Silvia Araújo , Sandi Danielle
Published: February 2023

As Chamadas Públicas para compra de Cestas Verdes do Programa de Aquisição da Produção da Agricultura foram criadas pelo governo do Distrito Federal para atender pessoas em situação de vulnerabilidade alimentar e ao mesmo tempo apoiar os agricultores familiares que, em decorrência do fechamento de feiras livres e restaurantes para consumo no local, foram indiretamente afetados pela pandemia de COVID-19. As Cestas Verdes do programa são compostas por uma seleção de frutas, legumes e verduras, divididas em grupos, sendo que cada cesta deve ser composta por uma quantidade mínima em quilogramas de cada grupo. Entre o período de 2020 e 2021 foram realizadas quatro chamadas públicas. Espera-se ser relevante um modelo de apoio à decisão para o agricultor, utilizando a programação matemática, por intermédio de restrições de quantidade demandada e quantidade de produtos disponíveis, direcionando o planejamento tático do agricultor familiar com relação a melhor combinação de alimentos, visando a minimização dos custos de composição das cestas e atendimento das regras do edital. Desta forma, esse trabalho propõe um modelo matemático para apoio à decisão do agricultor que desejar aderir ao programa Cestas Verdes, com aplicação no Solver do Excel. Os resultados das simulações mostraram que os valores pagos pelo governo por Cestas Verdes têm cada vez menos se tornado benéficos para os produtores.
Guest editorial
Authors: Manning Seán
Published: February 2023

Five years ago I found myself, more by chance than design, at a conference in London called "The First Neuro-psychoanalycic Congress." I was going to a conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and my good friend and colleague, Geraldine Lakeland, who was going to the same conference, found that this event in London fitted perfectly with the schedule. So we went. The name alone is remarkable - it really seemed as if, for the first time in over a hundred years, neurologists and psychoanalysts were having a constructive dialogue. This is of course too extreme a description, but it was certainly a significant event. Chaired by Oliver Sacks, it featured a series of stars on both sides, including Antonio Damasio, whose books (1999; 2003) I immediately began devouring. An analyst gave a presentation, a neurologist replied and there was a discussion. Then it was the other way round - first a neurologist, then an analyst, and another discussion, for three days. I was enthralled, and began a serious round of reading about the brain in relation to psychotherapy.
Relaxing about cultural difference
Authors: Snedden Pat
Published: February 2023

The theme of this paper is 'relaxing about cultural difference, trusting our treaty partners'. It will try to capture an orientation to the exercise of trust in our cross-cultural treaty relations that might dovetail with reflections on the 2005 conference's theme of 'Love, Science and Psychotherapy'. The paper will suggest that we need a 'big leap forward' in our Maori/Pakeha relations. That leap requires a vital ingredient, trust, which can only come into being on the basis of an understanding of the context, past and present, of our cross-cultural relations.
Dilemmas and dialogue in organisational settings
Authors: Von Sommaruga Howard Teresa
Published: February 2023

Dialogue is invariably thought of as a conversation between two people. But it is much more than that. This article shows how providing a space for dialogue encourages collaborative enquiry in groups of all sizes with beneficial consequences for organisational effectiveness as well as personal wellbeing.
Physicians Are More Burned Out Than Ever—Here’s What Can Be Done About It
Authors: Kuehn Bridget M.
Published: February 2023

This Medical News article discusses US initiatives to improve health care worker well-being as burnout and intent to leave to medicine reach record levels.
Funding Research on Health Workforce Well-being to Optimize the Work Environment
Authors: Melnick Edward R. , Sinsky Christine A. , Shanafelt Tait
Published: February 2023

This Viewpoint discusses the need for public funding for research that supports health workforce well-being and addresses occupational burnout among health care practitioners.
Genetic manipulation and targeted protein degradation in mammalian systems: practical considerations, tips and tricks for discovery research
Authors: Giandomenico Stefano L. , Schuman Erin M.
Published: February 2023

Gaining a mechanistic understanding of the molecular pathways underpinning cellular and organismal physiology invariably relies on the perturbation of an experimental system to infer causality. This can be achieved either by genetic manipulation or by pharmacological treatment. Generally, the former approach is applicable to a wider range of targets, is more precise, and can address more nuanced functional aspects. Despite such apparent advantages, genetic manipulation (i.e., knock‐down, knock‐out, mutation, and tagging) in mammalian systems can be challenging due to problems with delivery, low rates of homologous recombination, and epigenetic silencing. The advent of CRISPR‐Cas9 in combination with the development of robust differentiation protocols that can efficiently generate a variety of different cell types in vitro has accelerated our ability to probe gene function in a more physiological setting. Often, the main obstacle in this path of enquiry is to achieve the desired genetic modification. In this short review, we will focus on gene perturbation in mammalian cells and how editing and differentiation of pluripotent stem cells can complement more traditional approaches. Additionally, we introduce novel targeted protein degradation approaches as an alternative to DNA/RNA‐based manipulation. Our aim is to present a broad overview of recent approaches and in vitro systems to study mammalian cell biology. Due to space limitations, we limit ourselves to providing the inexperienced reader with a conceptual framework on how to use these tools, and for more in‐depth information, we will provide specific references throughout.
Temperature‐Dependent Reversal of Phase Segregation in Mixed‐Halide Perovskites
Authors: Wright Adam D. , Patel Jay. B. , Johnston Michael B. , Herz Laura M.
Published: February 2023

Understanding the mechanism of light‐induced halide segregation in mixed‐halide perovskites is essential for their application in multijunction solar cells. Here, photoluminescence spectroscopy is used to uncover how both increases in temperature and light intensity can counteract the halide segregation process. It is observed that, with increasing temperature, halide segregation in CH3NH3Pb(Br0.4I0.6)3 first accelerates toward ≈290 K, before slowing down again toward higher temperatures. Such reversal is attributed to the trade‐off between the temperature activation of segregation, for example through enhanced ionic migration, and its inhibition by entropic factors. High light intensities meanwhile can also reverse halide segregation; however, this is found to be only a transient process that abates on the time scale of minutes. Overall, these observations pave the way for a more complete model of halide segregation and aid the development of highly efficient and stable perovskite multijunction and concentrator photovoltaics.
Antithrombotic and Flow Drag‐Reducing Material for Blood‐Contacting Medical Devices
Authors: Tan Justin Kok Soon , Chen Elaine Shi An , Dong Yibing , Fang Hui , Koh Cho Yeow , Kini R. Manjunatha , Kim Sangho , Leo Hwa Liang , Yap Choon Hwai
Published: February 2023

Blood‐contacting medical devices are often associated with shear‐induced and contact activation thrombosis. Superhydrophobic materials have shown promise to reduce flow drag forces, but not contact activation. Here, a strategy of selectively grafting a potent anti‐thrombin compound on the tips of the surface microstructures of a superhydrophobic polytetrafluoroethylene foam, is presented, to concurrently achieve drag reduction and anti‐thrombosis. This work shows that two grafting approaches – Argon plasma or piranha solution treatment – followed by covalent cross‐linking can successfully graft the drug to the outer tips of the foam and provide anti‐thrombotic functionality. By avoiding grafting to the inner regions of the foam, the surface's drag reduction properties can be retained. The functional durability of the grafted surfaces is evaluated by strong water jetting, which demonstrates that the plasma approach can withstand substantial fluid shearing but not the piranha approach, although the plasma approach involves stronger compromise to the drag reduction capabilities. As the proposed selective grafting strategy is applied to a bulk foam, it can be complemented with a previously proposed strategy of supplying air pressure to the foam pores to bolster resistance to fluid impalement and plastron dissolution, allowing the material to be used in medical devices with high fluid pressures.
Rapid Identification of Species, Antimicrobial‐Resistance Genotypes and Phenotypes of Gram‐Positive Cocci Using Long Short‐Term Memory Raman Spectra Methods
Authors: Lu Jiayue , Chen Jifan , Huang Ling , Wang Siheng , Shen Yingbo , Chen Sheng , Shen Zhangqi , Zhang Rong
Published: February 2023

Antimicrobial resistance is an aggravating public health problem worldwide, with more than 700 000 deaths attributable to infections caused by antibiotic‐resistant bacteria annually. To tackle this challenge, it is important to design appropriate regimens based on data regarding the species identity of bacterial pathogen concerned, as well as their antimicrobial‐resistance genotypes and phenotypes. Herein, a novel method that utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze Raman spectra to identify microbes and their susceptibility to commonly used antibiotics at both genotype and phenotype level is developed. A total of 130 strains of Enterococcus spp. and Staphylococcus capitis with known minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of commonly used antimicrobial agents are included in this study. After the models are configured and trained, long short‐term memory (LSTM) based Raman platform is developed and is found to be able to offer an accuracy of 89.9 ± 1.1%, 82.4 ± 0.6%, and 60.4–89.2% in bacterial species classification, identification of antimicrobial‐resistance genes (ARGs), and prediction of resistance phenotypes, respectively. This novel method exhibits higher level of accuracy than those using the machine learning algorithms. The results indicate that Raman spectroscopy combined with LSTM analysis can be used for rapid bacterial species identification, detection of ARGs, and assessment of drug‐resistance phenotypes.
Collaboration between Australian peak bodies and governments in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic: New ways of interacting
Authors: Foote Wendy L. , Conley Wright Amy , Mason Jennifer , McEwan Tracy
Published: February 2023

Peak bodies (“peaks”) are funded by Australian governments to fulfil a multifaceted role, including presenting a collective voice to government on behalf of their nongovernmental service provider members and the vulnerable client populations they serve. However, the relationship between peaks and governments has been fraught, with governments imposing contractual conditions in exchange for funding, thereby constraining advocacy. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, the nongovernmental sector provided vital services, including care and support for children and families, and dispensed emergency funding through their service networks. This research investigates engagement between peak bodies and governments during the COVID‐19 pandemic in 2020–2021. Nineteen CEOs and senior executives were interviewed from 16 peak bodies. Additionally, 27 surveys were completed by peak and nongovernmental sector representatives. Interview transcripts were coded using NVivo and thematically analysed. Four types of interactions between government and peak bodies were identified: collective leadership; partnership; advocacy to influence; and advocacy designed for public pressure. These four types of interactions formed a public advocacy continuum. In some Australian jurisdictions, the study showed that collective and partnership mechanisms between peaks and government were strengthened or revived, yet sustained work will be needed to entrench these positive developments in a postcrisis environment.
Aggressive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma manifested by splenic rupture progressed 2 months after transverse myelitis: an autopsy case report
Authors: Mori Shusuke , Ai Tomohiko , Taguchi Towako , Negi Mariko , Otomo Yasuhiro
Published: February 2023

Background

Splenic rupture by diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL), which usually progresses insidiously, is extremely rare.

Case Presentation

A 60‐year‐old man presented with paralysis in his lower left extremity. A magnetic resonance imaging suggested transverse myelitis. No lymphadenopathy or organomegaly was noted. Two months after remission, he was referred to the emergency department complaining of presyncope. He was in preshock due to splenic rupture, and underwent laparotomy after attempts of transcatheter arterial embolization. Splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, and disseminated enlarged lymph nodes were observed. Histological examinations of the resected spleen showed DLBCL. He died of multiple organ failure associated with intractable bleeding. His autopsy revealed diffuse systemic invasions of lymphoma cells except for the brain and spinal cord. Microscopically, the spinal cord showed macular incomplete necrosis and histiocytic infiltration, suggestive of hemophagocytic syndrome.

Conclusion

The progression of DLBCL in our case is drastically rapid. Undiagnosed transverse myelitis preceded the onset.
Tough and anti‐swelling γ‐polyglutamic acid/polyvinyl alcohol hydrogels for wearable sensors
Authors: Zheng Deyang , Zhang Chenyang , Chen Ziwei , Zhu Peizhi , Gao Chunxia
Published: February 2023

Hydrogels are widely used in biomedicine, wearable electronics and other fields due to their flexibility and high water content. However, hydrogels prepared by traditional methods generally suffer from swelling in humid environments, which greatly limits their development. This is because most hydrogels are prepared in a non‐swollen equilibrium state. This work introduces a method based on directional crystallization to adjust the mechanical and anti‐swelling properties of γ‐polyglutamic acid/polyvinyl alcohol (γ‐PGA/PVA) hydrogels. The results show that the directional crystallization method can effectively improve the anti‐swelling performance of the hydrogel. After the directional crystallization process for three times, the γ‐PGA/PVA hydrogel can remain stable in HCl‐Tris solution up to 2 months, indicating its good anti‐swelling properties. The morphology, structure and molecular composition of γ‐PGA/PVA hydrogels were systematically studied, and their anti‐swelling mechanism was also investigated. In addition, the γ‐PGA/PVA hydrogel exhibits good response to human motion, opening up new avenues in the field of wearable sensors.
Microwave dielectric heating affects the in‐situ polymerization process of Nylon‐6/Ag‐NPs hybrid polymer nanocomposite
Authors: Mendoza Tolentino Yucundo , Romero‐Zúñiga Gabriela Yolotzín , Ceniceros Reyes Mónica Aimeé , Flores Silva Pamela Celeste , Vargas Ramírez Ángel , Yáñez‐Macías Roberto , Hernández Hernández Ernesto , González Morones Pablo
Published: February 2023

In this work, the microwave synthesis of Nylon‐6 hybrid polymeric nanocomposite (HPNC) was studied by the polymerization of ε‐caprolactam, 6‐aminocaproic acid, and 2% wt of silver nanoparticles (Ag‐NPs). It was determined that the dielectric heating (DH) of the Ag‐NPs controls the thermal behavior of the HPNCs synthesis and triggers the chemical reaction between Ag‐NPs and the Nylon‐6 molecules. Such reaction promotes their coating with the polymer and their precipitation, which affects the agitation of the reaction mixture, and results in broader molecular weight distribution and three HPNC populations. Usually, the power output effect in these processes is thermal as it accelerates their heating rate. Still, for HPNCs, higher output reduces the agglomerate size of the Ag‐NPs and accelerates their precipitation. At power up to 600 W, the DH of the Ag‐NPs causes the explosion of the reaction vials. The antimicrobial activity of the HPNCs against P. aeruginosa is almost 100% effective at 180 min of exposure; therefore, this microwave synthesis process is suitable for producing antimicrobial HPNCs.
A novel fixed‐time fractional order nonsingular terminal sliding mode control
Authors: Zhao Jing , Lin Zhichang , Xiao Min , Gao Zhifeng , Ding Jie
Published: February 2023

In order to reduce the convergence time of permanent magnet linear synchronous motor (PMLSM) and improve the robustness of system, a fixed‐time fractional order nonsingular terminal sliding mode control (FTFONTSMC) strategy is designed to realize the rapidity and accuracy of PMLSM position tracking response. Firstly, an improved fixed‐time terminal sliding mode (FTTSM) reaching law is proposed to reduce the time of convergence. Secondly, due to the uncertainty of the disturbance in PMLSM system, an exponential convergent disturbance observer (DO) is designed to observe the disturbance. Further, finite time stability of the control system is proved by Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, the above control algorithm is applied to PMLSM, and the proposed control method's effectiveness and superiority are validated by comparing with existing control methods.
Radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and cryoablation‐induced abscopal effect: Challenges and future prospects
Authors: Ali Mohammad Sadik , Hak Arshadul , Pogu Sunil V. , Rengan Aravind K.
Published: February 2023

Local therapy modalities such as radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, and cryoablation have been used to treat localized tumors for decades. The discovery of the abscopal effect causes a paradigm shift where local therapy also causes systemic effects and leads to the remission of nonirradiated tumors. The abscopal effect of radiation therapy, alone or in combination with other treatments, has been extensively studied over the last six decades. However, the results are unsatisfactory in producing robust, reproducible, and long‐lasting systemic effects. Although immunotherapy and radiation therapy are promising in producing the abscopal effect, the abscopal effect's mechanism is still unclear, owing to various factors such as irradiation type and dose and cancer type. This article reviews the research progress, clinical and preclinical evidence of the abscopal effect by various local therapies alone and in combination with chemotherapy and immunotherapy, case reports, and the current challenges in producing the abscopal effect by various local therapies, focusing on radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy, cryoablation, and the prospects for obtaining a robust, reproducible, and long‐lasting abscopal effect.
Trends in gastric cancer mortality 1990–2019 in 36 countries worldwide, with predictions to 2025, and incidence, overall and by subtype
Authors: Collatuzzo Giulia , Santucci Claudia , Malvezzi Matteo , La Vecchia Carlo , Boffetta Paolo , Negri Eva
Published: February 2023

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) incidence is declining heterogeneously worldwide. We aimed to calculate updated mortality trends for GC.

Methods

We investigated time trends for selected countries using the World Health Organization database. We computed age‐standardized mortality rates (ASMR) per 100,000 persons over the 1990–2019 period. We reported rates for the 2010–2014 and 2015–19 calendar periods, and the corresponding percent changes. We used joinpoint regression analysis to identify changes in the slope of mortality trends, and predict the number of deaths and rates for 2025. We also reported 2008–2012 incidence rates of cardia and noncardia GC.

Results

Mortality trends from GC have been favorable since 1990 for all countries analyzed and the European Union (EU 27), in both sexes and all ages. GC mortality is predicted to decline in all countries for both sexes, except for French and US women aged 35–64 years, and Canadian men aged 35–64. The highest proportions of cardia GC were observed in Northern and Central Europe while the lowest ones in Southern and Eastern Europe. Elsewhere, the highest proportions were registered in countries with low incidence and mortality rates, whereas high‐mortality countries showed lower proportions of cardia GC.

Conclusion

Observed and predicted GC mortality trends declined in most countries in both sexes, with few exceptions, likely due to the control of GC risk factors, in particular Hp infection.
Carbon‐concentrating mechanisms are a key trait in lichen ecology and distribution
Authors: Koch Natália M. , Lendemer James C. , Manzitto‐Tripp Erin A. , McCain Christy , Stanton Daniel E.
Published: February 2023

Carbon‐concentrating mechanisms (CCMs) are a widespread phenomenon in photosynthetic organisms. In vascular plants, the evolution of CCMs ([C44‐carbon compound] and crassulacean acid metabolism [CAM]) is associated with significant shifts, most often to hot, dry and bright, or aquatic environments. If and how CCMs drive distributions of other terrestrial photosynthetic organisms, remains little studied. Lichens are ecologically important obligate symbioses between fungi and photosynthetic organisms. The primary photosynthetic partner in these symbioses can include CCM‐presenting cyanobacteria (as carboxysomes), CCM‐presenting green algae (as pyrenoids) or green algae lacking any CCM. We use an extensive dataset of lichen communities from eastern North America, spanning a wide climatic range, to test the importance of CCMs as predictors of lichen ecology and distribution. We show that the presence or absence of CCMs leads to opposite responses to temperature and precipitation in green algal lichens, and different responses in cyanobacterial lichens. These responses contrast with our understanding of lichen physiology, whereby CCMs mitigate carbon limitation by water saturation at the cost of efficient use of vapor hydration. This study demonstrates that CCM status is a key functional trait in obligate lichen symbioses, equivalent in importance to its role in vascular plants, and central for studying present and future climate responses.
ASEAN energy transition pathway toward the 2030 agenda
Authors: Safrina Rika , Utama Nuki Agya
Published: February 2023

It is known that ASEAN has been one of the most dynamic and fastest‐growing regions in the world in recent decades and will still be expected to contribute largely to global economic growth in the next decades. Not only facing a growing energy demand, but ASEAN also needs to balance its energy trilemma (energy security, energy equity, and energy sustainability). On the other hand, ASEAN countries also acknowledge the need for transitioning into a low‐carbon economy to contribute to the global agenda of sustainable development goals 2030. Considering all the challenges, we argue that a comprehensive review of the historical and outlook of the ASEAN energy landscape, as well as national and regional energy policies, is important to investigate the capability of ASEAN Member States (AMS) to accelerate energy transition while securing energy supply. ASEAN has been a net importer of oil since before 2005, with transport accounting for the largest share of oil demand. Measures in the transportation sector need to be taken by the AMS by enhancing their biofuels and electric vehicle developments. The electricity grid can also be more diversified with the integration of renewable energy, considering the region possesses the untapped potential for hydro and solar, among others. Public financing is required to create a supportive environment for the ASEAN energy transition pathway by opening up the path and catalyzing market participation from private businesses. This article aims to provide a novel contribution to assessing energy potential in the Southeast Asia region toward the 2030 global agenda.
A Machine‐Learning‐Based Bibliometric Analysis of Cell Membrane‐Coated Nanoparticles in Biomedical Applications over the Past Eleven Years
Authors: Zhang Yiyin , Jin Shengxi , Li Duguang , Chen Guoqiao , Chen Yongle , Xia Qiming , Mao Qijiang , Li Yiling , Yang Jing , Fan Xiaoxiao , Lin Hui
Published: February 2023

Cell membrane encapsulation is a growing concept in nanomedicine, for it achieves the purpose of camouﬂage nanoparticles, realizing the convenience for drug delivery, bio‐imaging, and detoxification. Cell membranes are constructed by bilayer lipid phospholipid layers, which have unique properties in cellular uptake mechanism, targeting ability, immunomodulation, and regeneration. Current medical applications of cell membranes include cancers, inflammations, regenerations, and so on. In this article, a general bibliometric overview is conducted of cell membrane‐coated nanoparticles covering 11 years of evolution in order to provide researchers in the field with a comprehensive view of the relevant achievements and trends. The authors analyze the data from Web of Science Core Collection database, and extract the annual publications and citations, most productive countries/regions, most influential scholars, the collaborations of journals and institutions. The authors also divided cell membranes into several subgroups to further understand the application of different cell membranes in medical scenarios. This study summarizes the current research overview in cell membrane‐coated nanoparticles and intuitively provides a direction for future research.
Effectiveness of continuity of care in reducing depression symptoms in elderly: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Chaoyang , Wu Man , Qiao Guiyuan , Gao Xiaolian , Hu Ting , Zhao Xueyang , Zhu Xinhong , Yang Fen
Published: February 2023

Background

Depression affects 10%–20% of older adults worldwide. The course of late‐life depression (LLD) is often chronic, with a poor long‐term prognosis. Lower treatment adherence, stigma, and suicide risk lead to significant challenges in the continuity of care (COC) for patients with LLD. Elderly patients with chronic diseases can benefit from COC. As a common chronic disease of the elderly, whether depression can also benefit from COC has not been systematically reviewed.

Methods

Systematic literature search in Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Ovid, PubMed and Medline. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) on the intervention effects of COC and LLD, published on 12 April 2022, were selected. Two independent researchers made research choices based on consensus. An RCT with COC as an intervention measure for the elderly with depression 60 years old was the inclusion criteria.

Results

A total of 10 RCTs involving 1557 participants were identified in this study. The findings showed that: (1) COC significantly reduced depressive symptoms compared to usual care (standardized mean difference [SMD] = −0.47, 95% confidence interval: −0.63 to −0.31), with the best improvement at 3‐ to 6‐month follow‐up; (2) The reduction in depressive symptoms was more pronounced for patients with comorbid chronic conditions with LLD (SMD = −0.93, 95% CI: −1.18 to −0.68); (3) COC was more effective than other regions for LLD in Europe and the Americas (SMD = −0.84, 95% CI: −1.07 to −0.61); and (4) COC had a positive impact on the quality of life of patients with LLD (SMD = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.02–0.40).

Limitations

The included studies included several multi‐component interventions with widely varying methods. Therefore, it was almost impossible to analyze which of these interventions had an impact on the assessed outcomes.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis shows that COC can significantly reduce depressive symptoms and improve quality of life in patients with LLD. However, when treating and caring for patients with LLD, health care providers should also pay attention to timely adjustments of intervention plans according to follow‐up, synergistic interventions for multiple co‐morbidities, and actively learning from advanced COC programs at home and abroad to improve the quality and effectiveness of services.
The trend in density of skilled health personnel in BRICS countries: Implication for China and India
Authors: Yan Fei , Li Hongxia , Wang Wei , Zhang Jian
Published: February 2023

Objective

The similarities and differences in workforce trends in BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) may offer reciprocal lessons for emerging economies.

Methods

We used the Global Health Observatory data to assess the secular trends between 2001 and 2017 in the number of skilled health personnel (SHP: doctors, nurses/midwives) in BRICS compared to the average of Organization for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) countries.

Results

Substantial efforts have been made in BRICS to increase SHP availability, as demonstrated by an average exponential growth rate (AEGR) > 0.03 in Brazil, China, and India compared to 0.01 in OECD. With an AEGR as high as 0.07 after 2008, China reached the level of SHP availability commensurate with the sustainable development goals (SDGs) in 2017. Other than China, BRICS countries had a mean number of nurses and midwives per doctor between 2001 and 2017 higher than or comparable to the OECD average (2.78). The corresponding number in China was 1.04 in 2017, lower than 2.21 in India in 2001.

Conclusions

With China as the exception, BRICS countries maintained a sustainable skills mix of SHPs. China reached the level of SHP availability commensurate with the SDGs, but SHP's skill mix was imbalanced.
A porous swelling copolymeric material for improved implant fixation to bone
Authors: Siegler Sorin , Taghvaei Moein , Zegarski Ryan , Palmese Giuseppe , Mathew Rena , Schayes Julia , Schaer Thomas , Najafi Ahmad
Published: February 2023

Most metallic commercial bone anchors, such as screws and suture anchors achieve their fixation to bone through shear of the bone located between the threads. They have several deficiencies, potentially leading to failure, which are particularly evident in low‐density bone. These include stress‐shielding resulting from mechanical properties mismatch; lack of mechanically induced remodeling and osteointegration; and when the pullout force on the anchor, during functional activities, exceeds their pullout strength, catastrophic failure occurs leaving behind large bone defects that may be hard to repair. To overcome these deficiencies, we introduced in this study a porous swelling co‐polymeric material and studied its swelling and compressive mechanical characteristics as bone anchor under different configurations. Porosity was achieved by adding a non‐dissolvable agent (NaCl) during the process of polymerization, which was later dissolved in water, leaving behind a porous structure with adequate porosity for osteointegration. Three different groups of cylindrical samples of the swelling co‐polymer were investigated. Solid, fully porous, and partially porous with a solid core and a porous outer layer. The results of the swelling and simple compression study show that the partially porous swelling co‐polymer maintains excellent mechanical properties matching those of cancellous bone, quick swelling response, and an adequate porous outer layer for mechanically induced osteointegration. These suggest that this material may present an effective alternative to conventional bone anchors particularly in low‐density bone.
Comparison of interferometric light microscopy with nanoparticle tracking analysis for the study of extracellular vesicles and bacteriophages
Authors: Sausset Romain , Krupova Zuzana , Guédon Eric , Peron Sandrine , Grangier Alice , Petit Marie‐Agnès , De Sordi Luisa , De Paepe Marianne
Published: February 2023

Research on extracellular vesicles (EVs) and bacteriophages (phages) has been steadily expanding over the past decades as many of their roles in medicine, biology, and ecosystems have been unveiled. Such interest has brought about the need for new tools to quantify and determine the sizes of these biological nanoparticles. A new device based on interferometric light microscopy (ILM), the Videodrop, was recently developed for this purpose. Here, we compared this new device to two nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) devices, the NanoSight and the ZetaView, for the analysis of EVs and phages. We used EVs isolated from bacteria, fecal samples, bovine milk and human cells, and phages of various sizes and shape, ranging from 30 to 120 nm of diameter. While NTA instruments correctly enumerated most phages, the Videodrop detected only the largest one, indicating a lower sensitivity threshold compared to the NTA devices. Nevertheless, the performance of the Videodrop compared favourably to that of the NTA devices for the determination of the concentration of eukaryotic EV samples. The NanoSight instrument provided the most precise size distributions but the Videodrop was by far the most time‐saving device, making it worthy of consideration for studies conducted on a large number of samples composed of nanoparticles larger than 90 nm.
Strategies for designing novel positron emission tomography (PET) radiotracers to cross the blood–brain barrier
Authors: Lindberg Anton , Chassé Melissa , Varlow Cassis , Pees Anna , Vasdev Neil
Published: February 2023

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a powerful tool for imaging biological processes in the central nervous system (CNS). Designing PET radiotracers capable of crossing the blood–brain barrier (BBB) remains a major challenge. In addition to being brain‐penetrant, a quantifiable CNS PET radiotracer must have high target affinity and selectivity, appropriate pharmacokinetics, minimal non‐specific binding, negligible radiometabolites in the brain, and generally must be amenable to labeling with carbon‐11 (11C) or fluorine‐18 (18F). This review aims to give an overview of some of the critical physicochemical and biochemical contributors specific for CNS PET radiotracer design and how they can differ from pharmaceutical drug development, including in vitro assays, in silico predictions, and in vivo studies, with examples for how such methods can be implemented to optimize brain uptake of radiotracers based on experiences from our neuroimaging program.
Antimicrobial blue light as a biofilm management therapy at the skin‐implant interface in an ex vivo percutaneous osseointegrated implant model
Authors: Ong Jemi , Godfrey Rose , Nazarian Alexa , Tam Joshua , Drake Lynn , Isaacson Brad , Pasquina Paul , Williams Dustin
Published: February 2023

Biofilm contamination is often present at the skin‐implant interface of transfemoral osseointegrated implants leading to frequent infection, irritation, and discomfort. New biofilm management regimens are needed as the current standard of washing the site with soap and water is inadequate to manage infection rates. We investigated the potential of antimicrobial blue light, which has reduced risk of resistance development and broad antimicrobial mechanisms. Our lab developed an antimicrobial blue light (aBL) device uniquely designed for an ex vivo system based on an established ovine osseointegrated (OI) implant model with Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 biofilms as initial inocula. Samples were irradiated with aBL or washed for three consecutive days after which they were quantified. Colony‐forming unit (CFU) counts were compared with a control group (bacterial inocula without treatment). After 1 day, aBL administered as a single 6 h dose or two 1 h doses spaced 6 h apart both reduced the CFU count by 1.63 log10 ± 0.02 CFU. Over 3 days of treatment, a positive aBL trend was observed with a maximum reduction of ~2.7 log10 CFU following 6 h of treatment, indicating a relation between multiple days of irradiation and greater CFU reductions. aBL was more effective at reducing the biofilm burden at the skin‐implant interface compared with the wash group, demonstrating the potential of aBL as a biofilm management option.
Accurate determination of hip implant wear, cup anteversion and inclination through AI automated 2D‐3D registration
Authors: Klebingat Stefan , Bien Tanja , Hürtgen Janine , Grover Priyanka , Dreischarf Marcel , Alkhateeb Shareef , Jäger Marcus , Rose Georg
Published: February 2023

The precise and accurate measurement of implant wear, acetabular cup anteversion and inclination from routine anterior‐posterior radiographs still poses a challenge. Current approaches suffer from time‐consuming procedures accompanied by low and observer‐dependent accuracy and precision. We present and validate a novel, automated method for determining total hip arthroplasty parameters by comparing its accuracy and precision with methods in contemporary scientific literature. The algorithm uses CAD‐model‐based two dimensional‐three dimensional (2D‐3D)‐registration supported by convolutional neural networks. Two in‐vitro experimental set‐ups were designed to validate the proposed 2D‐3D‐method. The set‐ups provided 84 predefined wear values and 24 configurations of anteversion and inclination in 114 radiographs. Accuracy and precision were evaluated by systematically comparing the predefined ground truth and the automatically calculated values from in‐vitro X‐rays. In addition, an algorithm was developed and validated against physician's measurements on clinical X‐rays to determine the inclination of the interteardrop (ITL) and biischial line (BL) to account for the individual patient's pelvic rotation in the frontal plane. Using X‐rays from experimental set‐ups, the determined mean error was 0.014 mm (standard deviation: 0.020 mm; root‐mean‐square‐error: 0.024 mm) for wear in pelvic position, −0.01° (0.24°; 0.23°) for radiographic cup anteversion, and 0.11° (0.38°; 0.39°) for radiographic cup inclination. The inclination of ITL and BL was automatically determined in all clinical X‐rays with excellent interclass correlation coefficients of 0.95 and 0.91, respectively. The presented algorithm allows the accurate and precise evaluation of total hip arthroplasty parameters without additional equipment. The method might help to investigate different implant designs, biomaterials, and surgical techniques with greater objectivity.
Construction of a hyperspectral estimation model for total nitrogen content in Shajiang black soil
Authors: Niu Zhen , Shi Lei , Qiao Hongbo , Xu Xin , Wang Weiwei , Ma Xinming , Zhang Juanjuan
Published: February 2023

Background

The real‐time non‐destructive estimation of soil total nitrogen content via hyperspectral remote sensing is important for crop fertilization and precision agriculture development.

Aims

The study aimed to use hyperspectral technology for the construction of an estimation model using different methods for assessing total nitrogen content in Shajiang black soil.

Methods

In our study, soil samples were obtained from Shangshui County, Henan Province, China. Using hyperspectral data of soil samples, the original spectral reflectance was transformed into logarithmic, reciprocal, and first derivative spectra. Hyperspectral estimation models for assessing the total nitrogen content were built with spectral indices, competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS) algorithms, and a combination of machine learning methods, including the partial least square regression, support vector machine (SVM), and random forest methods.

Results

The results showed that after the first derivative transformation, the performance of normalized indices constructed with a combination of two bands at 1401 and 776 nm was better. The coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), ratio of performance to deviation (RPD), and ratio of performance to the inter‐quartile range (RPIQ) values of the model were 0.84, 0.10 g kg–1, 2.25, and 4.04, respectively. Validation was performed using data independent of the modeling samples, and validation R2, RMSE, RPD, and RPIQ values were 0.92, 0.07 g kg–1, 2.56, and 4.19, respectively. The same sample was analyzed using a CARS algorithm for screening feature bands, and the 61 reciprocal reflectance bands selected as the input for the SVM exhibited the best performance. A modeling R2 value of 0.92, RMSE of 0.07 g kg–1, RPD of 3.09, RPIQ of 5.97, and validation R2 of 0.96, RMSE of 0.06 g kg–1, RPD of 3.24, and RPIQ of 8.47 were observed.

Conclusions

The estimation models constructed using the two methods exhibited good ability to determine the total nitrogen content. The accuracy of the SVM model was slightly higher than that of the indices model, but both models could facilitate the rapid estimation of total nitrogen content in Shajiang black soil. The findings can provide a technical reference for the estimation of the levels of soil total nitrogen and other nutrients.
A rapid and nondestructive approach for forensic identification of novel psychoactive substances using shifted‐excitation Raman difference spectroscopy and machine learning
Authors: Tian Luchuan , Jiang Hong , Chen Tanzhi
Published: February 2023

Rapid drug detection is vital for combating drug abuse and inhibiting transmission, and the emergence of various novel psychoactive substances (NPS) has placed higher demands on field testing. To establish a rapid, nondestructive, and accurate analytical and classification method for testing novel psychoactive substances, shifted‐excitation Raman difference spectroscopy (SERDS) was used to detect 37 NPS including fentanyl, amphetamine, and synthetic cannabinoid under the experimental conditions of laser light source (785 and 785.5 nm). SERDS was also used in conjunction with machine learning to find the best classification prediction model. In this study, the characteristic peaks of 37 NPS analogs were extracted, and the characteristic peaks were attributed to the structures of the substances. We compared the classification effects of Support Vector Machine (SVM), K‐NearestNeighbor (KNN), ensemble classifier, neural network, tree, naive Bayes, and discriminant analysis and provided three hyperparametric optimization methods. Finally, the cross‐validation accuracy of SVM under BOA optimization is 97.3%, which can well distinguish three families of samples. The ability of SERDS to resist strong fluorescence interference makes it a powerful tool for on‐site analysis of NPS. In this study, we have given 37 unreported standard Raman peaks of NPS and three seized samples, which can be used as a reference. Shifted‐excitation differential Raman spectroscopy combined with machine learning can effectively provide solutions for customs, health care, on‐site police, large event security, and trace evidence inspection.