bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new model of bauxitization in quartzitic landscapes: A case study from the Southern Espinhaço Range (Brazil)
Authors: De Campos Daniela S. , Monteiro Hevelyn S. , Vasconcelos Paulo M. , Farley Kenneth A. , Silva Alexandre Christófaro , Vidal‐Torrado Pablo
Published: July 2023

Lithology plays a fundamental role in rock weathering and erosion, and in landscape evolution. When weathering‐ and erosion‐prone lithologies are protected from erosion by more resilient rock types (e.g., quartzites and banded iron formations) unusual weathering products result. At the Southern Espinhaço Range, Minas Gerais, Brazil, bauxitic weathering profiles are found in a unique geomorphological–lithological–climatic setting. Resistant quartzites acted as a barrier against erosion of interbedded hematite‐phyllite lenses, channelling solution flows and facilitating the formation of deep weathering profiles. The long‐term exposure of the hematite‐phyllites under alternating wet and dry tropical climates favoured widespread bauxitization. Here we investigate the geochemical, mineralogical, geochronological and micromorphological signatures of scaffolded bauxites in order to reconstruct their evolutionary history. Our data suggest that recurrent aluminium and iron mobilization within the profiles were mainly driven by mineral dissolution‐reprecipitation mediated by bioturbation and the influx of vegetation‐derived organic species. (U–Th)/He geochronology of Al‐goethite reveals that bauxitization started at least since the Lower Miocene, with important intensification of weathering in the Upper Miocene and Lower Pleistocene. The adjacent resilient quartzites acted as scaffolds for bauxitization and supported the preservation of more erodible weathering profiles developed over phyllites. Surface waters that could not infiltrate into the impermeable adjacent quartzites preferentially infiltrated into the more weathereable phyllites, enhancing their porosity and permeability, further enhancing weathering. The evolutionary history of Southern Espinhaço Range bauxites suggests a new model of bauxitization in ancient land surfaces evolution underlain by quartzites, where erosion‐prone lithologies are scaffolded by resilient quartzites and survive long‐term weathering with minimum erosion, producing bauxites.
Autonomous generation of alluvial fans in landscape evolution models
Authors: Han Kyungdoe , Wilson John L. , Emry Erica
Published: July 2023

We develop a robust and simple rule‐based algorithm to autonomously simulate alluvial fan deposition and evolution under continuously developing landscape conditions without prescribing deposition locations or imposing topographic constraints. Augmented with this algorithm, landscape evolution models are capable of dynamically detecting locations of potential fan deposition by statistical measures of surface topography and fluvial dynamics, then depositing fan sediments where and when the developed conditions require. To assess the method's efficacy in depositing sediment at a mountain‐valley transition zone characterized by a transport surface that permits unobstructed exit of sediment and water, a hypothetical scenario is created that involves a frontal, normal fault. It is followed by a series of sensitivity analyses to ascertain the influence of parameters affecting fan deposition and secondary processes. Uplift (u) and precipitation significantly impact fan morphological characteristics, which are within the range of real‐world fans. Higher rates of each cause the notable expansion of the fan area except in cases of exceptionally high precipitation rates. Fan area has a power‐law relationship with most of the tested parameters,
, where
is erodibility (lithology),
and
are fluvial parameters, and
is catchment area (
~0.9). This study is the first showcasing fan power‐law relationships using numerical modelling. While fan area increases with precipitation, there exists a threshold beyond which fan area diminishes, and the formation of fans ceases altogether. The algorithm provides a basis for improving mechanistic understanding of fans by offering a robust platform for testing process dominance and scaling. The results demonstrate its applicability for landscape evolution simulation over a long time and broad spatial scales. We also investigate the hydrological significance of including autonomously generated alluvial fans in coupled landscape evolution—hydrology models that focus on groundwater as well as surface water hydrology.
Corn stover‐derived porous carbon for asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Huynh Khang T. , Amar Vinod S. , Maddipudi Bharathkiran , Shende Anuradha R. , Shende Rajesh V.
Published: July 2023

In this investigation, hydrothermal liquefaction‐derived hydrochar from pulverized corn stover (avg. particle size 1.12 mm and ash content 6.75 wt%) is chemically activated with aqueous KOH in the presence of Pluronic F127 surfactant and thermally treated further up to 800°C to generate porous carbon (POC) with higher specific surface area and porosity. POC obtained under different processing conditions is thoroughly characterized by Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller surface area analyzer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Metallic impurity present in POC is characterized by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Higher specific surface area POC is observed with the use of the surfactant during the activation process. Fully characterized POC is used with (Mn, Ti)‐mixed oxide electrode to fabricate asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC). Specific capacitance of ASC is measured by cyclic voltammetry (CV) technique using Gamry G‐300 potentiostat/galvanostat/ZRA. CV plots are obtained with different voltage scan rates whereas galvanostatic charge‐discharge plots are studied by varying the current density. Renewable corn stover‐derived POC prepared using Pluronic F127/KOH activation method is found to be highly suitable as an electrode material because of higher capacitance and electrochemical stability over 100 charging‐discharging cycles.
Fire behavior of pressure‐sensitive adhesive tapes and bonded materials
Authors: Hupp Vitus , Schartel Bernhard , Flothmeier Kerstin , Hartwig Andreas
Published: July 2023

Pressure‐sensitive adhesive tapes are used in several industrial applications such as construction, railway vehicles and the automotive sector, where the burning behavior is of crucial importance. Flame retarded adhesive tapes are developed and provided, however, often without considering the interaction of adhesive tapes and the bonded materials during burning nor the contribution of the tapes to fire protection goal of the bonded components in distinct fire tests. This publication delivers an empirical comprehensive knowledge how adhesive tapes and their flame retardancy effect the burning behavior of bonded materials. With a special focus on the interaction between the single components, one flame retarded tape and one tape without flame retardant are examined in scenarios of emerging and developing fires, along with their bonds with the common materials wood, zinc‐plated steel, mineral wool, polycarbonate, and polymethylmethacrylate. The flame retardant significantly improved the flame retardancy of the tape as a free‐standing object and yielded a V‐2 rating in UL 94 vertical test and raised the Oxygen Index by 5 vol.%. In bonds, or rather laminates, the investigations prove that the choice of carrier and substrates are the factors with the greatest impact on the fire properties and can change the peak of heat release rate and the maximum average rate of heat emission up to 25%. This research yielded a good empirical overall understanding of the fire behavior of adhesive tapes and bonded materials. Thus, it serves as a guide for tape manufacturers and applicants to develop tapes and bonds more substrate specific.
A review on waste valorization, biotechnological utilization, and management of potato
Authors: Chauhan Anamika , Islam Fakhar , Imran Ali , Ikram Ali , Zahoor Tahir , Khurshid Sadaf , Shah Mohd Asif
Published: July 2023

One of the most popular, cost‐effective crops that are consumed globally is the potato. Due to the expanding food crisis, there is an increase in the demand for potato‐based agro‐food items. At the same time, it is noted that this pathway of ecological pollution from large‐scale wastes is challenging to manage. The food sector generates a lot of waste, which can be controlled better via biotechnological methods. The potato industry is one of the industries that generate a large amount of garbage that is harmful to the environment. Several by‐products of industrial potato production, such as potato peels (PPs), starch, flakes, and granules, are disposed of despite being rich sources of nutrients and bioactive ingredients. These wastes can subsequently be used in biotechnological processing to produce microbial polysaccharides, yeast cellular biomass, lipids, protein, enzymes, organic acids, and carotenoids as components of the microbial medium. Similarly, food processing based on potatoes uses a lot of water, which is an issue because it pollutes wastewater. The most popular method for reducing trash that is both affordable and environmentally beneficial at the moment is biotechnology. The purpose of this review study is to illustrate the potential of applying biotechnological techniques to tackle the potato waste problem while simultaneously enhancing the economy. By discussing recent breakthroughs as well as current flaws in this method of controlling potato trash, this paper seeks to give a future vision of the justifiable use of biotechnological‐based potato waste management and utilization strategies.
Dual combined antiviral treatment with remdesivir and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir in patients with impaired humoral immunity and persistent SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Pasquini Zeno , Toschi Alice , Casadei Beatrice , Pellegrini Cinzia , D’Abramo Alessandra , Vita Serena , Beccacece Alessia , Bussini Linda , Chionsini Maria Clara , Dentale Nicola , Cantiani Alessia , Lazzarotto Tiziana , Bartoletti Michele , Nicastri Emanuele , Zinzani Pierluigi , Giannella Maddalena , Viale Pierluigi
Published: July 2023

Despite global vaccination efforts, immunocompromized patients remain at high risk for COVID‐19‐associated morbidity. In particular, patients with impaired humoral immunity have shown a high risk of persistent infection. We report a case series of adult patients with B cell malignancies and/or undergoing B cell targeting therapies with persisting SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and treated with a combination antiviral therapy of remdesivir and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, in three Italian tertiary academic hospitals. A total of 14 patients with impaired adaptive humoral immunity and prolonged SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were treated with the dual antiviral therapy. The median age was 60 (IQR 56–68) years, and 11 were male. Twelve patients had B cell lymphoma, one patient had chronic lymphocytic leukemia and one patient had multiple sclerosis. Thirteen out of 14 patients had received prior B cell‐targeting therapies, consisting of anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibodies in 11 patients, and chimeric antigen receptor T therapy in 2 patients. The median time between diagnosis and therapy start was 42.0 (IQR 35–46) days. Seven patients had mild, 6 moderate and one severe disease. Nine patients had signs of interstitial pneumonitis on chest computed tomography scans before treatment. The median duration of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and remdesivir combination therapy was 10 days. All patients showed resolution of COVID‐19‐related symptoms after a median of 6 (IQR 4–11) days and viral clearance after 9 (IQR 5–11) days. Combination therapy with remdesivir and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir is a promising treatment option for persistent COVID‐19 in immunocompromized patients with humoral immunity impairment, worthy of prospective comparative trials.
Semen's parameters after varicocelectomy surgery with mast cell stabilizers treatment in infertile varicocele patients: Randomized clinical trial study
Authors: Akhavan Rezayat Alireza , Soleimanian Amirmohammad , Kamandi Neda , Aslzare Mohammad , Shaikh Zada Mohammad Mustafa
Published: July 2023

Background and Aims

Varicocele is one of the most common causes of male infertility in which testicular function is progressively damaged. This study aims to investigate the effect of varicocelectomy and mast cell stabilizers on reducing sperm DNA fragmentation in infertile patients with varicocele.

Methods

In this randomized clinical trial, after obtaining ethical approval and informed consent, infertile patients with varicocele were randomly assigned to three groups: varicocelectomy, 1 mg ketotifen, and varicocelectomy plus with 1 mg ketotifen for 3‐month follow‐up. Semen analysis and estimation of DNA fragmentation index (DFI) were obtained from all people in the studied time periods.

Results

In this study, 420 infertile patients with varicocele were included with an average age of 31.6 years. The results showed that sperm morphology, sperm motility, sperm count, and sperm DFI had significant differences after the intervention (p < 0.05). Also, the results of semen analysis for each group showed that there was a significant improvement in sperm morphology, motility, count, and DFI index of infertile people with varicocele after the intervention (p < 0.05). But the difference was statistically higher in the varicocelectomy plus with 1 mg ketotifen group than in the other groups (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The evidence and results of this study showed that the use of varicocelectomy plus ketotifen in infertile people with varicocele was more effective in improving Semen parameters than the use of mast cell stabilizers or varicocelectomy alone.
Density‐functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent DFT study of the chemical and physical origins of key photoproperties of end‐group derivatives of a nonfullerene acceptor molecule for bulk heterojunction organic solar cells
Authors: Taouali Walid , Alimi Kamel , Sindhoo Nangraj Asma , Casida Mark E.
Published: July 2023

As emphasized in a recent review article (Chem. Rev. 2022, 122, 14180), organic solar cell (OSC) photoconversion efficiency has been rapidly evolving with results increasingly comparable to those of traditional inorganic solar cells. Historically, OSC performance improvement focused first on the morphology of P3HT:BM solar cells then went through different stages to shift lately interest towards nonfullerene acceptors (NFAs) as a replacement of BM acceptor (ACC) molecule. Here, we use density‐functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent DFT to investigate four novel NFAs of A‐D‐A (acceptor‐donor‐acceptor) form derived from the recently synthesized IDIC‐4Cl (Dyes Pigm. 2019, 166, 196). Our level of theory is carefully evaluated for IDIC‐4Cl and then applied to the four novel NFAs in order to understand how chemical modifications lead to physical changes in cyclic voltammetry (CV) frontier molecular orbital energies and absorption spectra in solution. Finally we design and apply a new type of Scharber plot for NFAs based upon some simple but we think reasonable assumptions. Unlike the original Scharber plots where a larger DON band gap favors a larger PCE, our modified Scharber plot reflects the fact that a smaller ACC band gap may favor PCE by filling in gaps in the DON acceptor spectrum. We predict that only the candidate molecule with the least good acceptor A, with the highest frontier molecular orbital energies, and one of the larger CV lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) highest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO) gaps, will yield a PM6:ACC PCE exceeding that of the parent IDIC‐4Cl ACC. This candidate also shows the largest oscillator strength for the primary (HOMO, LUMO) charge‐ transfer transition and the largest degree of delocalization of charge transfer of any of the ACC molecules investigated here.
Reactions of a hydrogen atom with haloacetates in aqueous solutions: Computational evidence for proton‐coupled electron transfer and competing mechanisms
Authors: Ćehić Mirsada , Nikšić‐Franjić Ivana
Published: July 2023

A computational study of the mechanisms and kinetics of the aqueous reactions of a hydrogen atom with haloacetates is presented. Several mechanisms in the close competition are observed, such as proton‐coupled electron transfer (PCET), hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), and halogen abstraction (XA). Computations predict that dechlorination takes place via PCET mechanisms and not via XA, as stated earlier, while XA is the fastest mechanism for . The reaction rate constants are reasonably well predicted within the theoretically most reliable canonical variational transition state theory with small curvature tunneling corrections and compared with the experimental ones. To reproduce the experimental rate constants of the debromination process it is necessary to include the PCET and XA cumulative values. Small curvature tunneling corrections to the rate constants are the highest for HAT and PCET mechanisms, up to 70 times larger than the Wigner, while variational effects for XA mechanisms are very small.
Hope, optimism, and self‐efficacy predicting mental health and illness in a community sample exposed to Hurricane Harvey
Authors: D'Souza Johann M. , Long Laura J. , Richardson Angela L. , Gallagher Matthew W.
Published: July 2023

In 2017, Hurricane Harvey flooded more than 300,000 buildings causing an estimated $125 billion in damages and resulting in 68 deaths (National Hurricane Center). This actual or threatened loss of life and physical harm led many to report negative effects on mental well‐being and greater mental illness. However, many individuals have been able to experience similar adverse events without a significant negative impact on their mental health and well‐being. Positive thinking factors such as hope, optimism, and self‐efficacy have been proposed as protective factors in the face of difficult life events. Hope, optimism, and self‐efficacy are related but distinct constructs that have often been studied separately, but whose unique impact on well‐being and mental illness is less clear, especially in the context of a natural hazard. The current study uses structural equation modeling to measure the unique contribution of hope, optimism, and hurricane‐coping self‐efficacy on mental well‐being and mental illness in a community sample of 300 subjects who experienced Hurricane Harvey, recruited from Mechanical Turk.
iKNOWgynetics – A web‐based learning concept to empower primary care gynecologists to participate in the care of patients with a family history of breast and ovarian cancer
Authors: Speiser Dorothee , Kendel Friederike , Fechner Karen , Olbrich Christine , Stegen Stephanie , Häring Stephanie , Rörig Alina , Feufel Markus A.
Published: July 2023

Familial cancer burden and genetics play an increasingly important role in the early detection and prevention of gynecological cancers. However, people with hereditary cancer risks are often identified late when they already have cancer. We aimed at developing and evaluating a training concept for primary care gynecologists—iKNOWgynetics—to improve their knowledge and awareness of genetic cancer syndromes and their ability to identify patients with increased familial cancer risks based on up‐to‐date evidence and current guidelines (in Germany, primary care includes all doctors treating patients on an outpatient basis without a clear separation of the expertise of the doctor or of their specialty). Starting off with a needs assessment among primary care gynecologists, we developed and evaluated an online training concept—using a web‐based learning platform in combination with a live virtual seminar—to convey practice‐relevant knowledge about familial cancer. After registration, participants get access to the web‐based learning platform (www.iknowgynetics.de) to prepare for the virtual seminars and to use it as online reference to re‐access the contents after the training. Evaluation included multiple‐choice (MC) questions on knowledge and participants' self‐efficacy to implement the acquired knowledge, which were administered in a pre‐post design. Of 109 participants, 103 (94.5%) filled out pre‐ and post‐questionnaires. Eighty‐five participants were gynecologists in primary care from Berlin (81.2%) and Brandenburg (18.8%) and had an average of 24.1 years (SD = 8.5 years) of professional experience. After the training, participants answered significantly more knowledge questions correctly (M = 15.2 of 17, SD = 1.3) than before (M = 13.8 of 17, SD = 1.7) (p < 0.01) and felt more confident to be able to apply referral criteria for specialized counseling in practice (p < 0.001). The online‐based training iKNOWgynetics considers the busy schedule of primary care gynecologists and supports them in acquiring practice‐relevant information on familial cancer risks and on how to identify healthy persons at risk, which may ultimately help to improve the prevention of gynecological cancers. In future studies, the reported concept could be transferred to other entities.
Levodopa‐refractory hyperprolactinemia and pituitary findings in inherited disorders of biogenic amine metabolism
Authors: Yıldız Yılmaz , Kuseyri Hübschmann Oya , Akgöz Karaosmanoğlu Ayça , Manti Filippo , Karaca Meryem , Schwartz Ida Vanessa D. , Pons Roser , López‐Laso Eduardo , Palacios Natalia Alexandra Julia , Porta Francesco , Kavecan Ivana , Balcı Mehmet Cihan , Dy‐Hollins Marisela E. , Wong Suet‐Na , Oppebøen Mari , Medeiros Leonardo Simão , de Paula Leila Cristina Pedroso , García‐Cazorla Angeles , Hoffmann Georg F. , Jeltsch Kathrin , Leuzzi Vincenzo , Gökçay Gülden , Hübschmann Daniel , Harting Inga , Özön Z. Alev , Sivri Serap , Opladen Thomas
Published: July 2023

Elevated serum prolactin concentrations occur in inherited disorders of biogenic amine metabolism because dopamine deficiency leads to insufficient inhibition of prolactin secretion. This work from the International Working Group on Neurotransmitter Related Disorders (iNTD) presents the results of the first standardized study on levodopa‐refractory hyperprolactinemia (LRHP; >1000 mU/L) and pituitary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) abnormalities in patients with inherited disorders of biogenic amine metabolism. Twenty‐six individuals had LRHP or abnormal pituitary findings on MRI. Tetrahydrobiopterin deficiencies were the most common diagnoses (n = 22). The median age at diagnosis of LRHP was 16 years (range: 2.5–30, 1st–3rd quartiles: 12.25–17 years). Twelve individuals (nine females) had symptoms attributed to hyperprolactinemia: menstruation‐related abnormalities (n = 7), pubertal delay or arrest (n = 5), galactorrhea (n = 3), and decreased sexual functions (n = 2). MRI of the pituitary gland was obtained in 21 individuals; six had heterogeneity/hyperplasia of the gland, five had adenoma, and 10 had normal findings. Eleven individuals were treated with the dopamine agonist cabergoline, ameliorating the hyperprolactinemia‐related symptoms in all those assessed. Routine monitoring of these symptoms together with prolactin concentrations, especially after the first decade of life, should be taken into consideration during follow‐up evaluations. The potential of slow‐release levodopa formulations and low‐dose dopamine agonists as part of first‐line therapy in the prevention and treatment of hyperprolactinemia should be investigated further in animal studies and human trials. This work adds hyperprolactinemia‐related findings to the current knowledge of the phenotypic spectrum of inherited disorders of biogenic amine metabolism.
Fasting and non‐fasting plasma levels of monomethyl branched chain fatty acids: Implications for maple syrup urine disease
Authors: Tangeraas Trine , Kristensen Erle , Mørkrid Lars , Elind Elisabeth , Bliksrud Yngve Thomas , Eide Lars
Published: July 2023

The branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA) leucine, valine, and isoleucine provide precursors for monomethyl branched‐chain fatty acids (BCFA). Established reference ranges for BCFAs are lacking. In maple syrup urine disease (MSUD), a rare inborn error of BCAA metabolism, the endogen production is impaired and MSUD patients are treated with a low protein (low BCAA) diet. The protein restriction may affect the dietary intake of BCFA, depending on the dietary choices made. Patients with MSUD are prescribed a more or less protein‐restricted diet depending on the severity of the disease. The combination of a protein‐restricted diet and subsequent impaired endogenous synthesis may render MSUD patients sensitive to BCFA deficiency, with yet unknown implications. To investigate the possibility of lower circulatory BCFA levels in MSUD that favors dietary BCFA supplementation, we first established fasting‐state reference ranges for selected BCFAs and saturated/unsaturated fatty acids in plasma. Then, the effect of fasting on BCFA levels was evaluated by comparing the distribution in a fasting versus a non‐fasting cohort. To test the hypothesis that BCFA deficiency could contribute to MSUD pathophysiology, we recruited patients with intermittent, intermediate, and classical form of MSUD and analyzed the corresponding BCFA z‐scores. None of the BCFA species had |z‐scores| > 2 relative to the reference range. Our findings do not support the requirement of BCFA supplementation in MSUD patients. The origin of BCFAs is discussed. Impaired capacity to synthesize BCFA do not manifest as reduced plasma levels in MSUD, suggesting that endogenous synthesis is dispensable for plasma levels.
Remodeling in Aortic Stenosis With Reduced and Preserved Ejection Fraction: Insight on Motion Abnormality Via 3D + Time Personalized LV Modeling in Cardiac MRI
Authors: Chuah Shoon Hui , Tan Li Kuo , Md Sari Nor Ashikin , Chan Bee Ting , Hasikin Khairunnisa , Lim Einly , Ung Ngie Min , Abdul Aziz Yang Faridah , Jayabalan Jeyaraaj , Liew Yih Miin
Published: July 2023

Background

Increased afterload in aortic stenosis (AS) induces left ventricle (LV) remodeling to preserve a normal ejection fraction. This compensatory response can become maladaptive and manifest with motion abnormality. It is a clinical challenge to identify contractile and relaxation dysfunction during early subclinical stage to prevent irreversible deterioration.

Purpose

To evaluate the changes of regional wall dynamics in 3D + time domain as remodeling progresses in AS.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 31 AS patients with reduced and preserved ejection fraction (14 AS_rEF: 7 male, 66.5 [7.8] years old; 17 AS_pEF: 12 male, 67.0 [6.0] years old) and 15 healthy (6 male, 61.0 [7.0] years old).

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5 T Magnetic resonance imaging/steady state free precession and late‐gadolinium enhancement sequences.

Assessment

Individual LV models were reconstructed in 3D + time domain and motion metrics including wall thickening (TI), dyssynchrony index (DI), contraction rate (CR), and relaxation rate (RR) were automatically extracted and associated with the presence of scarring and remodeling.

Statistical Tests

Shapiro–Wilk: data normality; Kruskal–Wallis: significant difference (P < 0.05); ICC and CV: variability; Mann–Whitney: effect size.

Results

AS_rEF group shows distinct deterioration of cardiac motions compared to AS_pEF and healthy groups (TIAS_rEF: 0.92 [0.85] mm, TIAS_pEF: 5.13 [1.99] mm, TIhealthy: 3.61 [1.09] mm, ES: 0.48–0.83; DIAS_rEF: 17.11 [7.89]%, DIAS_pEF: 6.39 [4.04]%, DIhealthy: 5.71 [1.87]%, ES: 0.32–0.85; CRAS_rEF: 8.69 [6.11] mm/second, CRAS_pEF: 16.48 [6.70] mm/second, CRhealthy: 10.82 [4.57] mm/second, ES: 0.29–0.60; RRAS_rEF: 8.45 [4.84] mm/second; RRAS_pEF: 13.49 [8.56] mm/second, RRhealthy: 9.31 [2.48] mm/second, ES: 0.14–0.43). The difference in the motion metrics between healthy and AS_pEF groups were insignificant (P‐value = 0.16–0.72). AS_rEF group was dominated by eccentric hypertrophy (47.1%) with concomitant scarring. Conversely, AS_pEF group was dominated by concentric remodeling and hypertrophy (71.4%), which could demonstrate hyperkinesia with slight wall dyssynchrony than healthy. Dysfunction of LV mechanics corresponded to the presence of myocardial scarring (54.9% in AS), which reverted the compensatory mechanisms initiated and performed by LV remodeling.

Data Conclusion

The proposed 3D + time modeling technique may distinguish regional motion abnormalities between AS_pEF, AS_rEF, and healthy cohorts, aiding clinical diagnosis and monitoring of AS progression. Subclinical myocardial dysfunction is evident in early AS despite of normal EF.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Application of solid‐state fermentation using mushrooms for the production of animal feed
Authors: Rothmann Christopher , Rothmann Lisa , Viljoen Bennie , Cason Errol Duncan
Published: July 2023

The increasing growth of agroindustrial activity resulting in excessive amounts of agriwaste has led to the accumulation of a large quantity of lignocellulosic residues all over the world, in particular in deforestation initiatives for the removal of invasive trees in South Africa. These lignocellulosic residues are rich in energy resources and consist of a mixture of natural polymers based on lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose. The use of lignolytic fungi such as mushrooms in solid‐state fermentation could sufficiently degrade the indigestible lignocellulosic components and add medicinal and nutritional value to otherwise unusable, high‐energy waste material, which in turn could yield a new method of producing energy‐rich fodder for ruminant animals. The digestive type of animal for which the potential feed is developed must be identified and considered before deciding on the bioconversion method and process, as the outcomes for obtaining potentially high‐quality feeds for nonruminant and ruminant animals are different. The current study presents data on the bioconversion of lignocellulosic substrate using solid‐state fermentation with edible and medicinal mushrooms, Ganoderma lucidumand Pleurotus ostreatus, and a possible new species, to increase digestibility and nutritional value to be applied as ruminant animal feed. The solid‐state fermentation process was optimized and the resulting product was analyzed for the degradation of the lignocellulosic components. Results indicated that the solid‐state fermentation duration and mushroom species were key components in achieving significant degradation. Data obtained after 18 weeks of degradation indicated a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the acid detergent fiber, acid detergent lignin, and neutral detergent fiber fractions of the biomass, with up to a 20% reduction in indigestible components. This increase in digestibility could contribute to increased energy availability for ruminant animals.
Association between clusters of antibodies against periodontal microorganisms and Alzheimer disease mortality: Evidence from a nationally representative survey in the USA
Authors: Merchant Anwar T. , Zhao Longgang , Bawa Eric Mishio , Yi Fanli , Vidanapathirana Nadeesha P. , Lohman Matthew , Zhang Jiajia
Published: July 2023

Background

Alzheimer disease (AD) has been linked with periodontal microorganisms such as Porphyromonas gingivalis in observational and mechanistic studies. IgG antibodies against periodontal microorganisms which are markers of past and current periodontal infection have been correlated with cognitive impairment. We examined associations between empirically derived groups of 19 IgG antibodies against periodontal microorganisms and AD mortality.

Methods

Individuals participating in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) with complete data on IgG titers were followed up between 1988 and December 31, 2019. The outcome was AD mortality, and the main exposures were IgG antibodies against periodontal microorganisms classified into four mutually exclusive groups using cluster analysis. Survey‐weighted Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the relationship between clusters and AD mortality.

Results

With up to 21 years of follow‐up, 160 AD‐related deaths were documented. In the multivariable‐adjusted model, AD mortality overall was not associated with the Red‐Green (aHR 1.18; 95% CI, 0.46–3.07), Yellow‐Orange (aHR 1.36; 95% CI, 0.58–3.19), Orange‐Blue (aHR 0.63; 95%, CI, 0.33–1.21), and the Orange‐Red (aHR 0.79; 95% CI, 0.37–1.70) when the upper tertiles were compared to the bottom tertiles. However, the subgroup of middle‐aged individuals in the highest tertile of the Red‐Green cluster, but not older individuals, had a 13% higher risk of AD mortality (aHR 1.13; 95% CI, 1.02–1.26) compared with those in the bottom tertile.

Conclusion

Clusters of IgG antibodies against periodontal microorganisms did not predict AD mortality in this study.
Hydroponic versus soil‐based cultivation of sweet basil: impact on plants' susceptibility to downy mildew and heat stress, storability and total antioxidant capacity
Authors: Maurer Dalia , Sadeh Alona , Chalupowicz Daniel , Barel Shimon , Shimshoni Jakob A , Kenigsbuch David
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

In recent years, hydroponically cultivated basil has gained extensive popularity over soil‐based cultivation. Evidence for potential differences between both cultivation methods, in terms of resistance to biotic and abiotic stress factors, storage properties and shelf‐life, is still lacking and the potential effect of cultivation method on the antioxidant capacity has not yet been fully explored. This study aimed to determine which of the two basil cultivation methods produces plants that are more resilient to downy mildew and external heat treatment and that exhibit better storage and shelf‐life performance.

RESULTS

Hydroponically grown basil was significantly more affected by browning than the soil‐grown basil at the end of the storage and end of the shelf‐life period. Under both cultivation methods, the extent of browning increased significantly between the end of the storage and end of the shelf‐life period, by a factor of 1.4. Moreover, hydroponically grown plants were significantly more sensitive to heat treatment than soil‐grown basil. However, the soil‐grown basil exhibited significantly greater susceptibility to downy mildew than the hydroponically grown basil. At harvest, and at the end of the storage period, the antioxidant capacity of hydroponically cultivated basil was significantly greater than that of soil‐grown basil.

CONCLUSIONS

Hydroponically cultivated basil exhibited greater resistance to downy mildew, but less resilience to heat and browning during storage and a shelf‐life period, resulting in poorer storage and shelf‐life performance as compared to soil‐cultivated basil. The greater total antioxidant capacity of the hydroponically cultivated basil seems to be the major cause for the observed phenomena. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Starch granule size and shape characterization of yam (Dioscorea alata L.) flour using automated image analysis
Authors: Houngbo Mahugnon Ezékiel , Desfontaines Lucienne , Irep Jean‐Luc , Dibi Konan Evrard Brice , Couchy Maritza , Otegbayo Bolanle O. , Cornet Denis
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Roots, tubers and bananas (RTB) play an essential role as staple foods, particularly in Africa. Consumer acceptance for RTB products relies strongly on the functional properties of, which may be affected by the size and shape of its granules. Classically, these are characterized either using manual measurements on microscopic photographs of starch colored with iodine, or using a laser light‐scattering granulometer (LLSG). While the former is tedious and only allows the analysis of a small number of granules, the latter only provides limited information on the shape of the starch granule.

RESULTS

In this study, an open‐source solution was developed allowing the automated measurement of the characteristic parameters of the size and shape of yam starch granules by applying thresholding and object identification on microscopic photographs. A random forest (RF) model was used to predict the starch granule shape class. This analysis pipeline was successfully applied to a yam diversity panel of 47 genotypes, leading to the characterization of more than 205 000 starch granules. Comparison between the classical and automated method shows a very strong correlation (R2 = 0.99) and an absence of bias for granule size. The RF model predicted shape class with an accuracy of 83%. With heritability equal to 0.85, the median projected area of the granules varied from 381 to 1115 μm2 and their observed shapes were ellipsoidal, polyhedral, round and triangular.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained in this study show that the proposed open‐source pipeline offers an accurate, robust and discriminating solution for medium‐throughput phenotyping of yam starch granule size distribution and shape classification. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Prevalence of substance use disorders among patients with systemic lupus erythematous and major depressive disorder
Authors: Varghese Kevin J. , Dellenbaugh Alexandra , Cao Fei , Burgess Douglas M. , Yan Xiaofeng
Published: July 2023

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) has a higher prevalence among patients with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE). Patients with SLE struggle with stressors such as social stigma and reduced employment. Furthermore, substance use disorders (SUD) are strongly associated with MDD.

Objectives

This research investigated whether comorbid MDD among patients with SLE is associated with an increased prevalence of SUD diagnoses. Rates of various SUD diagnoses were compared among patients with SLE.

Methods

This was a retrospective comparison study of the medical record. All data were extracted from I2B2, a deidentified dataset from an academic hospital in an urban setting. Upon stratifying patients with SLE into two groups with or without MDD, chi‐squared test comparing SUD was completed. An additional analysis stratified patients with MDD into two groups with or without comorbid SLE and completed the chi‐squared test to compare SUD.

Results

Patients with SLE and comorbid MDD were more likely to have diagnoses of tobacco, alcohol, and opioid disorders, among others. The most common SUD was tobacco (prevalence 59.94%). Furthermore, the diagnosis of SLE among patients with MDD was not associated with increased rates of SUD diagnosis. However, patients diagnosed with comorbid SLE and MDD were more likely to have tobacco use and opioid use disorder diagnosis.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates a consistently higher rate of SUD diagnoses among patients diagnosed with SLE and comorbid MDD versus SLE alone. Rates of both tobacco and opioid use disorder were higher among patients with MDD and comorbid SLE when compared to MDD alone. Our study is limited by its retrospective analysis and does not include an analysis of the treatment of comorbid depression on SUD. For clinicians who take care of patients with SLE, when they have comorbid MDD, SUD should be screened.
An integrative salt marsh conceptual framework for global comparisons
Authors: Yando Erik S. , Jones Scott F. , James W. Ryan , Colombano Denise D. , Montemayor Diana I. , Nolte Stefanie , Raw Jacqueline L. , Ziegler Shelby L. , Chen Luzhen , Daffonchio Daniele , Fusi Marco , Rogers Kerrylee , Sergienko Liudmila
Published: July 2023

Salt marshes occur globally across climatic and coastal settings, providing key linkages between terrestrial and marine ecosystems. However, salt marsh science lacks a unifying conceptual framework; consequently, historically well‐studied locations have been used as normative benchmarks. To allow for more effective comparisons across the diversity of salt marshes, we developed an integrative salt marsh conceptual framework. We review ecosystem‐relevant drivers from global to local spatial scales, integrate these multi‐scale settings into a framework, and provide guidance on applying the framework using specific variables on 11 global examples. Overall, this framework allows for appropriate comparison of study sites by accounting for global, coastal, inter‐, and intra‐system spatial settings unique to each salt marsh. We anticipate that incorporating this framework into salt marsh science will provide a mechanism to critically evaluate research questions and a foundation for effective quantitative studies that deepen our understanding of salt marsh function across spatial scales.
High‐Speed Modulations of Guided Terahertz Waves via 2DEG Tiny Metasurfaces
Authors: Zeng Hongxin , Gong Sen , Wang Lan , Ding Kesen , Liang Huajie , Lan Feng , Zhou Tianchi , Liang Shixiong , Wang Wei , Gong Yubin , Yang Ziqiang , Cui Tie Jun , Zhang Yaxin
Published: July 2023

Metasurfaces have emerged as fascinating planar optical components and devices, and, in particular, active metasurfaces confer more multifunctional expansions. However, the metasurface research has mainly focused on operating the light in free space, which hardly satisfies the system‐level compactness and miniaturization. The potential of the metasurface for guided wave modulation remains to be further developed. Here, an integrated electronic device is reported by embedding a tiny metasurface, which consists of several patterned 2D electron gas (2DEG) microstructures in a waveguide. This device suppresses excessive parasitism to improve the modulation speed and enhances the electromagnetic field interaction to improve the modulation efficiency. It is experimentally demonstrated that high‐speed modulations are electrically excited by the guided terahertz waves on a time scale of 40 ps via the tiny metasurface. This scheme represents a new platform for compact and high‐speed integrated electronics.
Role of Fe oxide in the underdeposit corrosion of pipeline steel in oilfield produced water containing SRB
Authors: Udowo Victor Malachy , Yan Maocheng , Liu Fuchun , Ikeuba Alexander I.
Published: July 2023

The corrosion behavior of C20 pipeline steel was studied under Fe oxide and sand deposits in oilfield produced water containing sulfate‐reducing bacteria (SRB) via electrochemical techniques and surface analyses. A galvanic current of about 2 μAcm−2 was detected when the Fe oxide deposited sample and the bare steel were coupled in zero resistance ammeter (ZRA) mode, with the former being the anodic member of the couple. The Fe oxide deposited steel recorded severe localized corrosion after 14 days of testing in the SRB inoculated oilfield produced water. Corrosion severity decreased on the sand‐deposited steel, with general corrosion as the dominant morphology of surface attack. The development of product film was a vital factor in steel corrosion under the Fe oxide deposit.
Topological properties of definable sets in ordered Abelian groups of burden 2
Authors: Dolich Alfred , Goodrick John
Published: July 2023

We obtain some new results on the topology of unary definable sets in expansions of densely ordered Abelian groups of burden 2. In the special case in which the structure has dp‐rank 2, we show that the existence of an infinite definable discrete set precludes the definability of a set which is dense and codense in an interval, or of a set which is topologically like the Cantor middle‐third set (Theorem 2.9). If it has burden 2 and both an infinite discrete set D and a dense‐codense set X are definable, then translates of X must witness the Independence Property (Theorem 2.26). In the last section, an explicit example of an ordered Abelian group of burden 2 is given in which both an infinite discrete set and a dense‐codense set are definable.
Perception of avatars nonverbal behaviors in virtual reality
Authors: Etienne Elodie , Leclercq Anne‐Lise , Remacle Angélique , Dessart Laurence , Schyns Michaël
Published: July 2023

Virtual reality has shown great potential in many fields, especially in business and psychology. By immersing someone in a new computer‐generated reality, it is possible to create realistic, safe, and controllable simulations for research and training, as well as new three‐dimensional‐enriched consumer experiences and services. Most of these environments, especially in the metaverse, rely on virtual representations of people called avatars. The design and non‐verbal behaviors of these avatars must be carefully crafted to provide a realistic and truly immersive experience. This paper aims to understand how avatar nonverbal behaviors (i.e., body posture, facial expression, and head movement) are perceived by users immersed in a virtual reality context, a very common situation encountered in many simulations and especially during training. Therefore, the first objective of this study is to validate, through an experiment with 125 participants, how the audience's levels of emotional valence and arousal are perceived in virtual reality. Based on these results, a library of audience non‐verbal behaviors corresponding to different arousal and valence levels is now available for future applications. The experiment also examines the benefits of using low‐end versus high‐end virtual reality headsets, and photo‐realistic versus cartoon avatars. The results have implications for the design of realistic, challenging, and interactive virtual audiences.
Novel aspect of neprilysin in kidney fibrosis via ACSL4‐mediated ferroptosis of tubular epithelial cells
Authors: Lai Weijing , Huang Rongshuang , Wang Bo , Shi Min , Guo Fan , Li Lingzhi , Ren Qian , Tao Sibei , Fu Ping , Ma Liang
Published: July 2023

Although inhibition of neprilysin (NEP) might be a therapeutic strategy with the potential to improve the outcome of chronic kidney disease (CKD), the versatile function of NEP with its mechanism remains obscure in kidney fibrosis. In the study, we found that NEP was abnormally increased in tubular epithelial cells of CKD patients, as well as unilateral ureteral obstruction and adenine diet‐induced mice. Treatment with a United States Food and Drug Administration‐approved NEP inhibitor Sacubitrilat (LBQ657) could alleviate ferroptosis, tubular injury, and delay the progression of kidney fibrosis in experimental mice. Similarly, genetic knockdown of NEP also inhibited tubular injury and fibrosis in transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 ‐induced tubular cells. Mechanically, NEP overexpression aggravated the ferroptotic and fibrotic phenotype, which was restored by acyl‐CoA synthetase long‐chain family member 4 (ACSL4) knockdown. The NEP silencing attenuated TGF‐β1‐induced tubular cell ferroptosis and was exacerbated by ACSL4 overexpression. Collectively, for the first time, a novel aspect of NEP was explored in kidney fibrosis through ACSL4‐mediated tubular epithelial cell ferroptosis. Our data further confirmed that NEP inhibition exerted a promising therapeutic against fibrotic kidney diseases.
Comparison of Live and Remote Video Ratings of the Scale for Assessment and Rating of Ataxia
Authors: Taheri Amin Arian , Faber Jennifer , Önder Demet , Kimmich Okka , Synofzik Matthis , Ashizawa Tetsuo , Klockgether Thomas , Grobe‐Einsler Marcus
Published: July 2023

Background

Video recordings of neurological examinations are often used in clinical trials. The Scale for Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) is a widely used clinical scale for ataxic patients. Despite several advantages of video ratings, correlation between live ratings and remote video‐ratings has not been systematically investigated.

Objective

To compare live and remote video assessment of SARA.

Methods

Full SARA examinations of 69 patients with cerebellar ataxia were recorded on video. Live rating from site investigators were compared with remote video rating of three experienced ataxia clinicians using Bland–Altman analysis.

Results

Live and remote video ratings showed a high level of agreement for the complete score (bias = 0.09, with standard deviation = 2.00) and all single SARA items (bias <0.20 for all items).

Conclusion

Remote video ratings of SARA are a reliable means to assess severity of ataxia.