bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geochronology and geochemistry of the Ediacaran orthogneisses from the north Shahrekord (Sadegh‐Abad), Sanandaj‐Sirjan Zone: Insights into magmatic evolution of the Iranian basement
Authors: Davoudian Ali Reza , Bendokht Maryam , Shabanian Nahid , Azizi Hossein , Asahara Yoshihiro , Neubauer Franz , Genser Johann
Published: March 2022

The metamorphosed Sadegh‐Abad granite from the north Shahrekord Metamorphic Complex (NSMC) of Sanandaj‐Sirjan Zone in west Iran shows evidence of ductile deformation. The augen to banded mylonitic granite (orthogneiss) involves sharp contacts with other rock units, including high‐grade metamorphic rocks, such as eclogite, amphibolite, and garnet amphibolite as well as schists. U–Pb zircon dating reveals that the crystallization of the granitic magma occurred at 568 ± 14 Ma (Late Neoproterozoic, Ediacaran). The Sadegh‐Abad mylonitic granite comprises high SiO2 (67–78 wt.%) and Na2O (3.23–7.79 wt.%) contents and low CaO (0.73–1.61 wt.%) and variable K2O concentrations (0.08–4.6 wt.%). The chondrite‐normalized REE diagram shows enrichment in LREE relative to HREE (Ce/Yb)N = 1.90 to 6.12), a negative Eu anomaly (Eu/Eu* = 0.10–0.66), and nearly flat HREE patterns (Tb/Yb)N = 0.94–1.44). These are interpreted to have originated from a continental crustal source. This is further supported by the high concentration of the alkali elements, U, Th, Rb, and the high 87Sr/86Sr(i) isotopic ratios (0.7086 to 0.7163). The lower HREEs abundances, negative Eu anomalies, and the low contents of mafic minerals may infer that partial melting of continental crust has taken place in low‐pressure conditions within the plagioclase stability field, possibly of pre‐existing calc‐alkaline bodies in the lower continental crust. The charge of heating probably occurred via the injection of mafic magmas into the tonalitic and granodioritic continental crust.
Astroglial cannabinoid signaling and behavior
Authors: Ramon‐Duaso Carla , Conde‐Moro Ana Rocio , Busquets‐Garcia Arnau
Published: March 2022

In neuroscience, the explosion of innovative and advanced technical accomplishments is fundamental to understanding brain functioning. For example, the possibility to distinguish glial and neuronal activities at the synaptic level and/or the appearance of new genetic tools to specifically monitor and manipulate astroglial functions revealed that astrocytes are involved in several facets of behavioral control. In this sense, the discovery of functional presence of type‐1 cannabinoid receptors in astrocytes has led to identify important behavioral responses mediated by this specific pool of cannabinoid receptors. Thus, astroglial type‐1 cannabinoid receptors are in the perfect place to play a role in a complex scenario in which astrocytes sense neuronal activity, release gliotransmitters and modulate the activity of other neurons, ultimately controlling behavioral responses. In this review, we will describe the known behavioral implications of astroglial cannabinoid signaling and highlight exciting unexplored research avenues on how astroglial cannabinoid signaling could affect behavior.
Interactions of physical activity, muscular fitness, adiposity, and genetic risk for NAFLD
Authors: Schnurr Theresia M. , Katz Sophia Figueroa , Justesen Johanne M. , O’Sullivan Jack W. , Saliba‐Gustafsson Peter , Assimes Themistocles L. , Carcamo‐Orive Ivan , Ahmed Aijaz , Ashley Euan A. , Hansen Torben , Knowles Joshua W.
Published: March 2022

Genetic predisposition and unhealthy lifestyle are risk factors for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We investigated whether the genetic risk of NAFLD is modified by physical activity, muscular fitness, and/or adiposity. In up to 242,524 UK Biobank participants without excessive alcohol intake or known liver disease, we examined cross‐sectional interactions and joint associations of physical activity, muscular fitness, body mass index (BMI), and a genetic risk score (GRS) with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels and the proxy definition for suspected NAFLD of ALT levels > 30 U/L in women and >40 U/L in men. Genetic predisposition to NAFLD was quantified using a GRS consisting of 68 loci known to be associated with chronically elevated ALT. Physical activity was assessed using accelerometry, and muscular fitness was estimated by measuring handgrip strength. We found that increased physical activity and grip strength modestly attenuate genetic predisposition to elevation in ALT levels, whereas higher BMI markedly amplifies it (all p values < 0.001). Among those with normal weight and high level of physical activity, the odds of suspected NAFLD were 1.6‐fold higher in those with high versus low genetic risk (reference group). In those with high genetic risk, the odds of suspected NAFLD were 12‐fold higher in obese participants with low physical activity versus those with normal weight and high physical activity (odds ratio for NAFLD = 19.2 and 1.6, respectively, vs. reference group). Conclusion: In individuals with high genetic predisposition for NAFLD, maintaining a normal body weight and increased physical activity may reduce the risk of NAFLD.
Aspects of second‐order velocity slip and radiation absorption on hydromagnetic stagnation point flow of Jeffrey fluid with chemical reaction
Authors: Kumbhakar Bidyasagar , Nandi Susmay , Seth Gauri S.
Published: March 2022

The present article describes the magnetohydrodynamic flow of a moving Jeffrey fluid along a convectively heated porous stretching surface with second‐order velocity slip and radiation absorption effects. Furthermore, chemical reactions and viscous dissipation impacts are also taken into account. The governing equations are converted into dimensionless ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using appropriate similarity transformations. The highly nonlinear ODEs are solved numerically by employing a shooting technique based on the Runge–Kutta Cash–Karp formula. The figures are used to study the variations in temperature, velocity, and concentration profiles for several physical factors. The numerical values of the local skin friction, Sherwood number, and Nusselt number are explained and shown in tables. The analysis reveals that the velocity profile is enhanced for amplifying values of velocity ratio parameter and first‐order velocity slip parameter. However, the temperature profile of Jeffrey nanofluid is highlighted w.r.t. Eckert number and radiation absorption parameter. This study may find significant applications in polymer production, food processing, instrumentation, combustion modeling, catalytic chemical reactors, and so on.
Seasonal flashiness and high frequency discharge events in headwater streams in the North Carolina Piedmont (United States)
Authors: Johnson Bradley G. , Morris Catherine S. , Mase Heather L. , Whitehouse Peter S. , Paradise Christopher J.
Published: March 2022

First‐order streams are rarely the focus of research even though they play an important hydrological and ecological role in upland landscapes and may be more susceptible to human impacts than larger streams. We studied 16 first‐order streams in the North Carolina Piedmont to examine relationships between land use, discharge, flashiness and conductivity in the headwaters of the Rocky River and McDowell Creek. Stream gauges were installed on each of the 16 headwater streams to provide constant monitoring of stream depth, temperature and specific conductance. Rating curves were created for each site using models that combined field measured and Manning's calculated discharge. Initial attempts to measure flashiness using the Richards‐Baker Index (RBI) indicated that it is not a good proxy for flashiness in small streams because its use of median daily flows do not capture fluctuations that occur over short time periods. Instead, we developed a new method that focused on the number of days each stream flows above its 99th percentile flow (DMQ99). We also examined individual storm events across multiple seasons. We found that headwater streams in the Piedmont are flashier than more commonly gauged second and third order streams because first‐order streams are more directly connected to the landscape. Streams located in suburban areas tend to be flashier than streams in forested areas as a result of the increase in impervious surfaces and the reduction of evapotranspiration (ET) caused by development. Additionally, we found that all streams become flashier in the winter when ET is lower, suggesting important feedbacks between physical and biological systems. All streams experience periodic extreme conductivity events, indicating significantly impaired ecological conditions. More developed basins generally have higher maximum specific conductance compared with less developed basins although streams have significant natural variability as well. Overall, our results indicate that first‐order streams in the Piedmont are highly impacted by development and that extra caution should be exercised when altering landscapes near small streams.
Hydrogeochemical and isotopic evidences of unique groundwater recharge patterns in the Mongolian Plateau
Authors: Ma Fenyan , Chen Jiaqi , Chen Jiansheng , Wang Tao
Published: March 2022

In arid and semi‐arid areas, local precipitation is insufficient to fulfil the water requirements of the fragile local environment; hence, water is obtained from groundwater. The Hulun Lake Basin is located in the Mongolian Plateau, which is home to numerous lakes. In this study, we used remote sensing and isotopic tracing of naturally occurring isotopes (δ18O, δ2H, and 87Sr/86Sr) to identify and quantify the various water inputs into the basin. Based on the lake water balance calculation and precipitation and river inputs, a 5.4 × 108 m3/year groundwater recharge rate was determined. Groundwater and river water with depleted δ18O and δ2H were identified close to the faults near Hulun Lake. The groundwater recharge into Hulun Lake is aided by the faults. The δ18O and δ2H compositions of the groundwater, rivers, and lakes were consistent and more depleted than those of precipitation in the local mountains and plains. Therefore, the rivers and lakes are assumed to be primarily recharged by groundwater. The low strontium isotopes (87Sr/86Sr) in the samples suggest that the water was primarily recharged by basalt groundwater, which was identified under the Cenozoic strata instead of the sandstones, granites, and tuffs, which are the primary rocks in the study area. Moreover, the faults were widely distributed in the study area, allowing for groundwater upwelling from basalts. For the areas with volcanic rocks and faults, particularly in arid and semi‐arid areas, the basalt groundwater recharge through faults is critical for environmental sustainability. This research provides necessary information for future hydro‐ecosystem resource management in arid and semi‐arid areas.
A deep data‐driven approach for enhanced segmentation of blood vessel for diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Yadav Nirmal
Published: March 2022

The segmentation step of retinal blood vessel helps to diagnosis the diseases including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, etc. The automatic image segmentation process helps experts to speed up the diagnosis of DR, since analytic methods are time consuming and error prone. The neural network (NN) based methods like U‐Net uses leap bonding that extract fine information from the training dataset. However automatic segmentation of image using neural network is a challenging process because of uneven and irregular geometry of organ. In this article, we proposed a U‐Net based approach for segmentation of retinal vessels. Before applying segmentation step, the affected area of image is enhanced with some preprocessing techniques. Then a dual tree discrete Ridgelet transform (DT‐DRT) is apply on the dataset to extract the features from the region of interest. The features accumulation with DT‐DRT ensures better feature representation of vessel for segmentation task. The proposed segmentation is implemented on different publicly available dataset and achieve accuracy of 96.01% in CHASE DB1, 97.65% in DRIVE and 98.61% in STARE dataset. The performance of this algorithm is also compared with some other deep learning models, and results demonstrate that this proposed algorithm performed better than them.
Comprehensive review onzinc‐ionbattery anode: Challenges and strategies
Authors: Zhang Xin , Hu Jun‐Ping , Fu Na , Zhou Wei‐Bin , Liu Bin , Deng Qi , Wu Xiong‐Wei
Published: March 2022

Zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) have been extensively investigated and discussed as promising energy storage devices in recent years owing to their low cost, high energy density, inherent safety, and low environmental impact. Nevertheless, several challenges remain that need to be prioritized before realizing the widespread application of ZIBs. In particular, the development of zinc anodes has been hindered by many challenges, such as inevitable zinc dendrites, corrosion passivation, and the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), which have severely limited the practical application of high‐performance ZIBs. This review starts with a systematic discussion of the origins of zinc dendrites, corrosion passivation, and the HER, as well as their effects on battery performance. Subsequently, we discuss solutions to the above problems to protect the zinc anode, including the improvement of zinc anode materials, modification of the anode–electrolyte interface, and optimization of the electrolyte. In particular, this review emphasizes design strategies to protect zinc anodes from an integrated perspective with broad interest rather than a view with limited focus. In the final section, comments and perspectives are provided for the future design of high‐performance zinc anodes.

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Three‐dimensional thermophotonic image optimization modalities of truncated correlation photothermal coherence tomography
Authors: Welch Robert , Sivagurunathan Koneswaran , Tavakolian Pantea , Mandelis Andreas
Published: March 2022

Truncated correlation photothermal coherence tomography (TC‐PCT) is a pulse‐compression, matched‐filter‐based photothermal diffusion‐wave imaging modality with a proven track record in non‐destructive evaluation of biomedical, dental, art‐object and industrial applications. This is a study of the effect thermal transient truncation plays in the TC‐PCT algorithm. It introduces a new phase channel which was coined the name Linear Iso Phase (LIOP) and improves the conventional TC‐PCT phase by redevising its matched‐filter sampling scheme and removing the effect of circular aliasing artifacts introduced in the frequency‐domain‐transformed cross‐correlation (CC) calculations. A previously introduced computationally simplified adaptation to TC‐PCT based on conventional CC signal processing, named enhanced truncated correlation photothermal coherence tomography (eTC‐PCT), which does not utilize thermal transient truncation is also investigated: The TC‐PCT and eTC‐PCT algorithms and the LIOP channel are used to produce three‐dimensional reconstructions of a complex multi‐layered marquetry art sample and a tooth with a bacterial‐induced lesion.
Biofabricating hollow microneedle array with controllable microstructure for cell transplantation
Authors: Chen Ying‐Hou , Wang Fang‐Ying , Chan Yong‐Shi , Huang Charles , Huang Yi‐You
Published: March 2022

Microneedles improve upon the direct injection method by piercing the epidermis to create microchannels for drug delivery in a painless and minimally invasive way. With these microchannels, large macromolecules can penetrate the skin barrier to reach the underlying target tissue. In this study, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) hollow microneedles (HMN) arrays were fabricated to transplant cells. The result showed that HMN arrays have good biocompatibility. Human epidermal melanocytes and follicle dermal papilla cells were shown to be successfully delivered to acellular porcine skin tissue. Similarly, human corneal keratocytes and corneal epithelial cells were shown to be successfully delivered to acellular porcine corneal tissue. The delivered cells proliferated and penetrated into the tissue. This system may have the potential in the application of cell delivery or cell transplantation.
Synthesis and characterization of Co3O4 nanoparticles: Application as performing anode in Li‐ion batteries
Authors: Mahmood Zaid Hameed , Jarosova Marketa , Kzar Hamzah H. , Machek Pavel , Zaidi Muhaned , Dehno Khalaji Aliakbar , Khlewee Ibrahim Hammoud , Altimari Usama S. , Mustafa Yasser Fakri , Kadhim Mustafa M.
Published: March 2022

A simple, rapid, and low‐cost method for preparation of Co3O4 nanoparticles (Co3O4‐1 and Co3O4‐2) using solid‐state calcination of mixture of Co(NO3)2∙6H2O and salicylic acid (1:1 weight ratio) at two different temperatures of 500 and 600°C is reported. The morphologies and structure of the as‐prepared Co3O4 nanoparticles were characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). In addition, we tested them as an anode material for lithium‐ion batteries. The cycling stability and electrochemical performance of the as‐prepared Co3O4 nanoparticles were excellent. A capacity of ≈1,100 mAh/g was obtained after 50 cycles at 100 mA/g and exhibited stable discharge behavior up to 50 cycles with high rate capability.
Serum lutein is a promising biomarker for type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic kidney disease in the elderly
Authors: Pan Fenghui , Cui Wenxia , Gao Lei , Shi Xiaoting , Yang Haiyan , Hu Yun , Li Man
Published: March 2022

Objective

To investigate the relationship between serum lutein and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in elderly individuals.

Methods

A total of 60 T2DM patients over 60 years were subgrouped into a DKD group and a non‐DKD group according to their urinary microalbumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (UACR), while 30 age‐matched non‐T2DM patients were recruited in the control group. Baseline characteristics, laboratory examination results, and serum lutein levels were compared, and their correlations were analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted to identify the diagnostic potential of lutein in T2DM and DKD.

Results

The lutein level in the T2DM group was significantly lower than that in the control group and was also significantly lower in the DKD group than in the non‐DKD group (p < 0.001). Lutein levels were negatively correlated with body mass index, glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting blood glucose, triglyceride, and UACR and positively correlated with high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (p < 0.05). T2DM patients were divided into four groups according to the quartile of their lutein level. The proportion of T2DM and DKD gradually decreased with increasing lutein levels (p < 0.001). The area under the ROC curve of serum lutein in diagnosing T2DM and DKD was 0.880 and 0.779, respectively, with corresponding cut‐off values of 0.433 μmol/L and 0.197 μmol/L (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The serum level of lutein is negatively correlated with the incidence of T2DM and DKD in the elderly and can serve as a diagnostic marker for T2DM and DKD.
Exploring blood microbial communities and their influence on human cardiovascular disease
Authors: Khan Ikram , Khan Imran , Jianye Zhou , Xiaohua Zhang , Khan Murad , Hilal Mian Gul , Kakakhel Mian Adnan , Mehmood Arshad , Lizhe An , Zhiqiang Li
Published: March 2022

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the single biggest contributor to global mortality. CVD encompasses multiple disorders, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, platelet hyperactivity, stroke, hyperlipidemia, and heart failure. In addition to traditional risk factors, the circulating microbiome or the blood microbiome has been analyzed recently in chronic inflammatory diseases, including CVD in humans.

Methods

For this review, all relevant original research studies were assessed by searching in electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, by using relevant keywords.

Results

This review demonstrated that elevated markers of systemic bacterial exposure are associated with noncommunicable diseases, including CVD. Studies have shown that the bacterial DNA sequence found in healthy blood belongs mainly to the Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria phyla. In cardiac events, such as stroke, coronary heart disease, and myocardial infarction, the increased proportion of Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria phyla was found. Lipopolysaccharides are a major component of Proteobacteria, which play a key role in the onset of CVD. Moreover, recently, a study reported the lower cholesterol‐degrading bacteria, including Caulobacterales order and Caulobacteraceae family were both considerably reduced in myocardial infarction.

Conclusion

Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria were shown to be independent markers of the risk of CVD. This finding is evidence for the new concept of the role played by blood microbiota dysbiosis in CVD. However, the association between blood microbiota and CVD is still inconsistent. Thus, more deep investigations are required in future to fully understand the role of the bacteria community in causing and preventing CVD.
Micro‐morphological diversity of pollen among Asteraceous taxa from Potohar Plateau‐Pakistan
Authors: Usma Anwer , Ahmad Mushtaq , Ramadan Mohamed Fawzy , Khan Amir Muhammad , Zafar Muhammad , Hamza Mohammed , Sultana Shazia , Yaseen Ghulam
Published: March 2022

Microscopic pollen characters from 19 species of family Asteraceae collected from different areas of the Potohar Plateau of Pakistan have been investigated using light and scanning electron microscopy. This study uses microscopic techniques to provide detailed information on pollen and its exine structure based on qualitative and quantitative characters. The present study has observed three types of pollen grains based on their apertures, that is, trizonocolporate, tetrazonocolporate, and tricolporate. Exine sculpturing is echinate in all studied taxa. Some species also exhibit Lacunae which differ in their shape and sizes. The size of the spines and the number of spines between the colpi play a vital role in differentiating the species of the same genus. Pollen fertility ranges from 94.3 to 74.19, showing that these species are well established in the study area. For the correct identification of species, a light and scanning electron microscopy was used that provides sufficient information for a taxonomist to distinguish species taxonomically.

Research Highlights

Light and Scanning electron microscope is comparatively used to investigate the pollen characters of some species of the family Asteraceae.

A scanning electron microscopy is used to study the micro‐morphological characters of pollen grains.

Qualitative and quantitative characters of pollen were studied.
The functional role of soluble proteins acquired by extracellular vesicles
Authors: Ramos Ana Paula , Sebinelli Heitor Gobbi , Ciancaglini Pietro , Rosato Nicola , Mebarek Saida , Buchet Rene , Millán José Luis , Bottini Massimo
Published: March 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid bilayer‐enclosed nanosized particles released by all cell types during physiological as well as pathophysiological processes to carry out diverse biological functions, including acting as sources of cellular dumping, signalosomes and mineralisation nanoreactors. The ability of EVs to perform specific biological functions is due to their biochemical machinery. Among the components of the EVs’ biochemical machinery, surface proteins are of critical functional significance as they mediate the interactions of EVs with components of the extracellular milieu, the extracellular matrix and neighbouring cells. Surface proteins are thought to be native, that is, pre‐assembled on the EVs’ surface by the parent cells before the vesicles are released. However, numerous pieces of evidence have suggested that soluble proteins are acquired by the EVs’ surface from the extracellular milieu and further modulate the biological functions of EVs during innate and adaptive immune responses, autoimmune disorders, complement activation, coagulation, viral infection and biomineralisation. Herein, we will describe the methods currently used to identify the EVs’ surface proteins and discuss recent knowledge on the functional relevance of the soluble proteins acquired by EVs.
The key roles of organelles and ferroptosis in Alzheimerʼs disease
Authors: Long Hui‐Zhi , Cheng Yan , Zhou Zi‐Wei , Luo Hong‐Yu , Wen Dan‐Dan , Gao Li‐Chen
Published: March 2022

Alzheimerʼs disease (AD), an age‐related neurodegenerative disease, is a striking global health problem. Ferroptosis is a newly discovered form of cell death characterized by iron‐dependent lipid peroxidation products and the accumulation of lethal reactive oxygen species. Strict regulation of iron metabolism is essential to ensure neuronal homeostasis. Excess and deficiency of iron are both associated with neurodegeneration. Studies have shown that oxidative stress caused by cerebral iron metabolism disorders in the body is involved in the process of AD, ferroptosis may play an important role in the pathogenesis of AD, and regulating ferroptosis is expected to be a new direction for the treatment of AD. Various organelles are closely related to ferroptosis: mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosome are involved in the regulation of ferroptosis from the aspects of iron metabolism and redox imbalance. In this review, the relationship between AD and the dysfunction of organelles (including mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, lysosome, and Golgi apparatus) and the role of organelles in ferroptosis of AD were reviewed to provide insights for understanding the relationship between organelles and ferroptosis in AD and the treatment of AD.
Future precipitation projection in Bangladesh using SimCLIM climate model: A multi‐model ensemble approach
Authors: Islam H. M. Touhidul , Islam Abu Reza Md. Towfiqul , Shahid Shamsuddin , Alam G. M. Monirul , Biswas Jatish Chandra , Rahman Md. Mizanur , Roy Dilip Kumar , Kamruzzaman Mohammad
Published: March 2022

Appraisal of the long‐term precipitation trends and variability is crucial for sustainable water resources management. This research intended to evaluate Bangladesh's monthly, seasonal, and annual spatiotemporal rainfall variability using 40 global climate models for two representative concentration pathways (RCPs), RCP4.5 and RCP8.5. Statistical downscaling climate model (SimCLIM) was used for downscaling and ensemble projection of rainfall in near (2011–2040), middle (2041–2070), and far (2071–2100) futures. Modified Mann–Kendall test was applied to detect future rainfall trends. The results revealed a significant increasing trend in rainfall in near and middle futures for RCP4.5 and in all three future periods for RCP8.5 at all meteorological stations of Bangladesh during significant rainfall months (May–October). The results also showed a decreasing trend in rainfall in dry months (December–January) at many stations. The highest increase in rainfall was projected in June at a rate of 0.10–1.11 mm·year−1 for RCP4.5 and 3.34–4.98 mm·year−1 for RCP8.5 in different future periods. Monsoon rainfall showed the highest increase, and winter rainfall the lowest increase for all RCPs and future periods. The increase in annual precipitation over Bangladesh was projected 2.76–5.98% in three future periods for RCP4.5 and 6.98–26.44% for RCP8.5. These outcomes indicate a possible increase in floods severity and frequency in Bangladesh in the future.
High‐resolution knee plain radiography image synthesis using style generative adversarial network adaptive discriminator augmentation
Authors: Ahn Gun , Choi Byung Sun , Ko Sunho , Jo Changwung , Han Hyuk‐Soo , Lee Myung Chul , Ro Du Hyun
Published: March 2022

In this retrospective study, 10,000 anteroposterior (AP) radiography of the knee from a single institution was used to create medical data set that are more balanced and cheaper to create. Two types of convolutional networks were used, deep convolutional GAN (DCGAN) and Style GAN Adaptive Discriminator Augmentation (StyleGAN2‐ADA). To verify the quality of generated images from StyleGAN2‐ADA compared to real ones, the Visual Turing test was conducted by two computer vision experts, two orthopedic surgeons, and a musculoskeletal radiologist. For quantitative analysis, the Fréchet inception distance (FID), and principal component analysis (PCA) were used. Generated images reproduced the features of osteophytes, joint space narrowing, and sclerosis. Classification accuracy of the experts was 34%, 43%, 44%, 57%, and 50%. FID between the generated images and real ones was 2.96, which is significantly smaller than another medical data set (BreCaHAD = 15.1). PCA showed that no significant difference existed between the PCs of the real and generated images (p > 0.05). At least 2000 images were required to make reliable images optimally. By performing PCA in latent space, we were able to control the desired PC that show a progression of arthritis. Using a GAN, we were able to generate knee X‐ray images that accurately reflected the characteristics of the arthritis progression stage, which neither human experts nor artificial intelligence could discern apart from the real images. In summary, our research opens up the potential to adopt a generative model to synthesize realistic anonymous images that can also solve data scarcity and class inequalities.
Poor oral health status and adverse COVID‐19 outcomes: A preliminary study in hospitalized patients
Authors: Costa Camila Alves , Vilela Ana Carolina Serafim , Oliveira Suzane Aparecida , Gomes Tiago Dias , Andrade Alex Alves Costa , Leles Cláudio Rodrigues , Costa Nádia Lago
Published: March 2022

Background

Most of the common risk factors for severe outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) are correlated with poor oral health, tooth loss, and periodontitis. This has pointed to a possible relationship between oral and systemic health in COVID‐19 patients. Hence, this study aimed to assess the dental and periodontal status of hospitalized COVID‐19 patients and their associations with the incidence of adverse COVID‐19 outcomes.

Methods

We included 128 hospital patients aged between 20 and 97 years and with diagnoses of COVID‐19 in this prospective observational study. Dental and periodontal status was assessed using in‐hospital clinical examinations, including the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth index, periodontal status, and tooth loss patterns (Eichner index). Associations between oral health measures, the severity of COVID‐19 symptoms, and hospitalization endpoints were tested using chi‐square test and incidence rate ratio (IRR) estimation using a generalized linear model with log‐Poisson regression. The regression models used a block‐wise selection of predictors for oral health‐related variables, comorbidities, and patients’ ages.

Results

Overall, poor oral health conditions were highly prevalent and associated with critical COVID‐19 symptoms, higher risk for admission in the intensive care unit (ICU), and death. Periodontitis was significantly associated with ICU admission (IRR = 1.44; 95% confidence interval [95%CI] = 1.07–1.95; P = 0.017), critical symptoms (IRR = 2.56; 95%CI = 1.44–4.55; P = 0.001), and risk of death (IRR = 2.05; 95%CI = 1.12‐3.76; P = 0.020) when adjusted for age and comorbidities. The Eichner index (classes B and C) was associated with ICU admission.

Conclusion

There was a positive association between deleterious oral health‐related conditions, especially periodontitis, and severe COVID‐19 outcomes in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients.
Hesperetin (citrus peel flavonoid aglycone) encapsulation using pea protein–high methoxyl pectin electrostatic complexes: complex optimization and biological activity
Authors: Caballero Sarah , Li Yao Olive , McClements David Julian , Davidov‐Pardo Gabriel
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Orange pomace polyphenols have potential for use as nutraceutical ingredients in functional foods and beverages. However, owing to their low water solubility and bioaccessibility, they are not being utilized to their full potential. The goal of this research is to assess the impact of encapsulation on hesperetin (HT – a model orange polyphenol) water solubility, antioxidant activity, and in vitro bioaccessibility.

RESULTS

In this study, a citrus flavonoid aglycone, HT, was encapsulated within water‐dispersible colloidal complexes (d = 350 ± 8 nm) formed by electrostatic attraction of pea protein isolate and high‐methoxyl pectin at a mixing ratio of 1:1 (v/v) and pH 4. The maximum amount of HT that could be dispersed in water was much higher for the encapsulated form (99 ± 7 μg mL−1) than the non‐encapsulated form (<10 μg mL−1). The radical scavenging activity of the encapsulated HT (>90%, pH 4) was much higher than the non‐encapsulated form (<15% at pH 4 or 7). The in vitro bioaccessibility of encapsulated HT (27 ± 7%) was also much higher than the non‐encapsulated form (<7%).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that a well‐designed, biopolymer‐based delivery system may improve the effective incorporation of HT, and potentially other orange pomace polyphenols, into food and beverage products. This could provide an additional high‐value use for orange juicing by‐products while introducing a new nutraceutical product to the food and beverage industry. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Feasibility of Fetal Proximal Lateral Cerebral Ventricle Measurement
Authors: Ganor Paz Yael , Levinsky Denis , Rosen Hadar , Barzilay Eran
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Measuring the posterior horn of the lateral ventricle in the fetus during ultrasound scans may be challenging. We aimed to examine this measurement feasibility, in relation to gestational age.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted, including nonanomalous fetuses, in which both lateral ventricles measured less than 10 mm during anomaly scans. The measurements were performed according to the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology guidelines. Success rate of measuring both ventricles was assessed at different gestational ages. Association between lateral ventricle width with contralateral ventricle width, gender, gestational age, and fetal head position were assessed.

Results

A total of 156 cases were recruited. The lateral ventricle distal to the probe was measured in all cases. In 10 cases proximal lateral ventricle could not be adequately measured (failed proximal ventricle measurement group). In 146 scans both ventricle measurements were available. All 10 cases of failed proximal ventricle measurement were in third trimester (30–38 weeks). Success rate of measurement of both ventricles was 100%, 96.2%, 71.4%, and 37.5% for gestational week 14–29, 30–32, 33–35, and 36–38, respectively (P <.001). Proximal lateral ventricle width was strongly associated with the distal ventricle width (B = 0.422, 95% confidence interval 0.29, 0.555, P <.001), but not with head position, fetal gender, or gestational age.

Conclusions

Measurement of the proximal lateral ventricle is feasible in most cases, even during late third trimester scans. Efforts should be made to visualize both ventricles in every evaluation of the fetal brain.
The evolution of forest restoration in India: The journey from precolonial to India's 75th year of Independence
Authors: Roy Anirban , Fleischman Forrest
Published: March 2022

This paper examines the history of forest restoration in India. While contemporary literature often emphasizes the novelty of forest restoration programmes as exemplified in large‐scale global pledges such as the Bonn Challenge or the Trillion Trees initiative, we show that forest restoration has thousands of years of history in India. Furthermore, this history plays an important role in shaping current restoration efforts, in ways that often undermine restoration goals. We find four themes in this history: the definitions of forests changed as the national administration metamorphosed, the philosophy behind the afforestation practices transitioned from commercial to a focus on forest cover that still underemphasizes ecological and subsistence values of forests, the involvement of forest‐dependent people in forest restoration has been limited by government policies through much of this period, and current restoration practice draws more from the history of commercial timber production than from contemporary restoration science. Drawing on these insights, we argue that restoration programmes need to be reconsidered in India.
Voice rest after vocal fold polyp surgery: A Swedish register study of 588 patients
Authors: Björck Gunnar , Hertegård Stellan , Ekelund Jan , Marsk Elin
Published: March 2022

Objective

To evaluate the impact of voice rest on patient‐reported voice outcome 4 months after vocal fold polyp surgery.

Methods

Preoperative information was collected about age, sex, and smoking habits and the voice handicap index‐10 (VHI‐10). Four months postoperatively, voice rest (total voice rest, spoke single words, and spoke normally), and pre and postoperative voice therapy were reported. This was correlated to voice satisfaction from a two‐category subjective evaluation “satisfied/ not satisfied” and to VHI‐10. Logistic regression models with relative risk for NOT being satisfied with voice after surgery were performed.

Results

Data from 588 patients were available. The group “spoke normally” showed the highest degree of patient satisfaction (92%). Younger patients (<59 years) were more satisfied than older (90% vs. 81.5%). High age and low VHI‐10 scores before surgery were statistically significant for negative voice outcome. Gender or voice rest type did not significantly affect outcome. The largest improvement in VHI‐scores was in the group who spoke normally and least in the group who spoke single words.

Conclusion

We found no significant difference in the two‐category subjective voice outcome depending on voice rest. VHI‐10 showed a statistically significant positive effect on self‐evaluated voice outcome, with the largest improvement in the group with no voice rest. However, the clinical relevance of the VHI changes is unclear. The present study does not show any advantage of total voice rest as compared to relative voice rest or speaking freely. High age and low preoperative VHI scores were significant risk factors for worse voice outcome.

Level of evidence: 4
A Water Soluble, Low Migration, and Visible Light Photoinitiator by Thioxanthone‐Functionalization of Poly(ethylene glycol)‐Containing Poly(β‐amino ester)
Authors: Gencoglu Turkan , Eren Tugce Nur , Lalevée Jacques , Avci Duygu
Published: March 2022

A novel photoinitiator (PI) is described here for low ecological impact, p(PEGDA575‐TX): It is water soluble, polymerizable, thioxanthone (TX) functional, and is a one‐component poly(ethylene glycol)‐based poly(β‐amino ester). The PI is synthesized in one step via classical aza‐Michael addition reaction between poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (Mn = 575 D) and amine functionalized TX (2‐(2‐aminoethoxy)‐9H‐thioxanthen‐9‐one). It absorbs at ≈ 404 nm (ε = 14 000–44 309) in water and can photodecompose with or without additives such as ethyl 4‐(dimethylamino)benzoate (EDB) and bis‐(4‐tert‐butylphenyl)‐iodonium hexafluorophosphate (Iod). Although it is an effective one‐component visible light PI for free radical polymerization of di‐ and tri(meth)acrylates, EDB or Iod will be favorable for synergistic effect. p(PEGDA575‐TX) has higher initiating reactivity, reducing ability of oxygen inhibition and migration stability compared to TX, which make it environmental friendly.
Antimicrobial resistance profiles of Escherichia coli and prevalence of extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae in calves from organic and conventional dairy farms in Switzerland
Authors: Nüesch‐Inderbinen Magdalena , Hänni Claudia , Zurfluh Katrin , Hartnack Sonja , Stephan Roger
Published: March 2022

This study compared the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among commensal Escherichia coli in the fecal microbiota of young calves raised on organic and on conventional dairy farms in Switzerland. Further, fecal carriage of extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase (ESBL) producing Enterobacteriaceae was assessed for calves from both farming systems. Where possible, data on antimicrobial usage (AMU) were obtained. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed on a total of 71 isolates using the disk diffusion method. ESBL producers were characterized by polymerase chain reaction‐based multilocus sequence typing and sequencing of the blaESBL genes. Organically raised calves were significantly more likely to harbor E. coli that showed AMR to ampicillin (odds ratio [OR]: 2.78, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–7.61, p = 0.046), streptomycin (OR: 3.22, 95% CI: 1.17–8.92, p = 0.046), kanamycin (OR: 11.3, 95% CI: 2.94–43.50, p < 0.001), and tetracycline (OR: 3.25, 95% CI: 1.13–9.31, p = 0.028). Calves with reported AMU were significantly more likely to harbor E. coli with resistance to ampicillin (OR: 3.91, 95% CI: 1.03–14.85, p = 0.045), streptomycin (OR: 4.35, 95% CI: 1.13–16.7, p = 0.045), and kanamycin (OR: 8.69, 95% CI: 2.01–37.7, p = 0.004). ESBL‐producing Enterobacteriaceae (18 E. coli and 3 Citrobacter braakii) were detected exclusively among samples from conventionally farmed calves (OR: infinity [∞], 95% CI: 2.3–∞, p < 0.0013). The observations from this study suggest that AMR is highly prevalent among commensal E. coli in young dairy calves, irrespective of the farm management system, with proportions of certain resistance phenotypes higher among organic calves. By contrast, the occurrence of ESBL producers among young dairy calves may be linked to factors associated with conventional farming.
Development of a novel high resolution melting assay for identification and differentiation of all known 19 serovars of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
Authors: Scherrer Simone , Peterhans Sophie , Neupert Christine , Rademacher Fenja , Bartolomei Giody , Sidler Xaver , Stephan Roger
Published: March 2022

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae is the etiological agent of porcine pleuropneumonia, a respiratory infectious disease responsible for global economic losses in the pig industry. From a monitoring perspective as well as due to the different courses of disease associated with the various serovars, it is essential to distinguish them in different herds or countries. In this study, we developed a novel high resolution melting (HRM) assay based on reference strains for each of the 19 known serovars and additional 15 clinical A. pleuropneumoniae isolates. The novel HRM comprises the species‐specific APP‐HRM1 and two serovar‐specific HRM assays (APP‐HRM2 and APP‐HRM3). APP‐HRM1 allowed polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of apxIV resulting in an A. pleuropneumoniae specific melting curve, while nadV specific primers differentiated biovar 2 from biovar 1 isolates. Using APP‐HRM2 and APP‐HRM3, 13 A. pleuropneumoniae serovars can be determined by inspecting the assigned melting temperature. In contrast, serovar 3 and 14, serovar 9 and 11, and serovar 5 and 15 have partly overlapping melting temperatures and thus represent a challenge to accurately distinguish them. Consequently, to unambiguously ensure the correct assignment of the serovar, it is recommended to perform the serotyping HRM assay using a positive control for each serovar. This rapid and user‐friendly assay showed high sensitivity with 1.25 fg–125 pg of input DNA and a specificity of 100% to identify A. pleuropneumoniae. Characteristic melting patterns of amplicons might allow detecting new serovars. The novel HRM assay has the potential to be implemented in diagnostic laboratories for better surveillance of this pathogen.
Recent progress in the imaging of c‐Met aberrant cancers with positron emission tomography
Authors: Floresta Giuseppe , Abbate Vincenzo
Published: March 2022

Tyrosine‐protein kinase Met—also known as c‐Met or HGFR—is a membrane receptor protein with associated tyrosine kinase activity physiologically stimulated by its natural ligand, the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and is involved in different ways in cancer progression and tumourigenesis. Targeting c‐Met with pharmaceuticals has been preclinically proved to have significant benefits for cancer treatment. Recently, evaluating the protein status during and before c‐Met targeted therapy has been shown of relevant importance by different studies, demonstrating that there is a correlation between the status (e.g., aberrant activation and overexpression) of the HGFR with therapy response and clinical prognosis. Currently, clinical imaging based on positron emission tomography (PET) appears as one of the most promising tools for the in vivo real‐time scanning of irregular alterations of the tyrosine‐protein kinase Met and for the diagnosis of c‐Met related cancers. In this study, we review the recent progress in the imaging of c‐Met aberrant cancers with PET. Particular attention is directed on the development of PET probes with a range of different sizes (HGF, antibodies, anticalines, peptides, and small molecules), and radiolabeled with different radionuclides. The goal of this review is to report all the preclinical imaging studies based on PET imaging reported until now for in vivo diagnosis of c‐Met in oncology to support the design of novel and more effective PET probes for in vivo evaluation of c‐Met.
Strategy for preventing skin paddle necrosis in mandibular reconstruction with free fibula osteocutaneous flap
Authors: Kusumoto Junya , Hashikawa Kazunobu , Sakakibara Akiko , Murai Nobuyuki , Akashi Masaya
Published: March 2022

Background

Non‐thrombotic skin paddle necrosis occasionally occurs during mandibular reconstructions with free fibula osteocutaneous flaps. The number of perforators, size of the skin paddle, and ischemia time of the flap are considered as causes of skin paddle necrosis. The importance of donor side selection has also been highlighted. This study aimed to investigate the leading cause of skin paddle necrosis and the optimal reconstructive procedure.

Methods

A total of 66 patients who underwent mandibular reconstruction using a free fibula osteocutaneous flap were retrospectively analyzed. Skin paddle necrosis, number of cutaneous perforators, size of the skin paddle, and ischemia time of the flap were investigated. An incorrect “laterality” was defined as a skin paddle (septum) covering the reconstruction plate. Donor‐site morbidity was recorded.

Results

Skin paddle necrosis occurred in 15.2% of patients. An incorrect laterality was associated with a higher incidence of skin paddle necrosis (odds ratio, 22.0; 95% confidence interval, 2.5–195; p = .005). Donor‐site morbidity was noted in 18.8% of the patients, without any significant difference in terms of the donor side with and without skin graft (p = .592). The postoperative activities of daily living were not affected.

Conclusions

To prevent skin paddle necrosis, donor side selection is an important safety strategy during mandibular reconstruction with free fibula osteocutaneous flap. The postoperative activities of daily living were found to be little affected by differences in the donor side.
Numerical treatments of the nonlinear coupled time‐fractional Schrödinger equations
Authors: Hadhoud Adel R. , Agarwal Praveen , Rageh Abdulqawi A. M.
Published: March 2022

In this article, we focused on solving numerically the coupled nonlinear Schrödinger equations (NLFSEs) with Caputo fractional derivative in time. The discrete schemes are constructed by using the trigonometric B‐spline collocation method and the non‐polynomial B‐spline method for space discretization respectively, while the
‐formula is applied in time discretization. The Von Neumann approach is applied to examine the stability of the proposed methods. For validating the accuracy and efficiency of the presented schemes, numerical tests are compared with the exact solution.