bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roles of matrix metalloproteinases in development, immunology, and ovulation in fruit Fly (Drosophila)
Authors: Bindhani Banani , Maity Sulagna , Chakrabarti Ipsit , Saha Samir Kumar
Published: November 2021

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), a protease enzyme, participates in proteolytic cleavage of extracellular matrix proteins from Drosophila and mammals. But, recent studies have revealed other physiologically important roles of MMP in Drosophila. MMP contributes to cardioblast movement and distribution of collagen proteins during cardiogenesis in developing Drosophila. Tissue remodeling, especially tracheal development is also maintained by MMP. MMP regulates certain immunological functions in Drosophila such as wound repairing, plasmatocyte assemblage at the injured site of the basement membrane and glial response to axon degeneration in Drosophila nervous system. But, the contribution of MMP to tumor formation and metastasis in Drosophila has made it an interesting topic among researchers. Ovulation and egg laying are also found to be affected positively by MMP in Drosophila.
Yield performance of dedicated industrial crops on low‐temperature characterized marginal agricultural land in Europe – a review
Authors: Reinhardt Jana , Hilgert Pia , Von Cossel Moritz
Published: November 2021

About 8.37 Mha of European agricultural land is affected by low temperature and thus considered marginal agricultural land. This land allows for industrial crop cultivation without competing directly with food security or biodiversity conservation. However, little is known regarding the yield performance of industrial crops under low temperature conditions. This study therefore compiles the available data and discusses them in the context of remaining uncertainties. Overall, 12 industrial crops were identified as relevant for Europe: giant reed (Arundo donax L.), camelina (Camelina sativa L. Crantz), cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L.), crambe (Crambe abyssinica Hochst ex R.E.Fr.), cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum L.), hemp (Cannabis sativa L.), miscanthus (Miscanthus spp.), poplar (Populus L.), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea L.), sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.), and willow (Salix L.). Good or very good growth suitability under low temperature was indicated for camelina, upland switchgrass, reed canary grass, and willow. Nevertheless, it was also found that there are strong variations in yield performance within the selected industrial crops. Little information was found on the effects of marginality constraints on biomass quality. The uncertainty resulting from this fragmentary data situation represents one of the greatest challenges to the large‐scale implementation of industrial crop cultivation across European agricultural land prone to low temperatures, especially in the context of climate change. © 2021 The Authors. Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining published by Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Hyparschale Magdeburg im Wandel
Authors: Jentzsch Klaus‐Jürgen , Jentzsch Stefan , Merz Steffen
Published: November 2021

Müthers Hyparschale in Magdeburg hat auch nach über 50 Jahren eine Zukunft. Ihrer Errichtung im Jahr 1969 folgten zunächst Jahrzehnte vielfältiger Nutzung als Sport‐ und Veranstaltungsstätte. Danach geriet sie in Vergessenheit und 1997 erfolgte aus Sicherheitsgründen die bauaufsichtliche Sperrung. Durch unterlassene Instandhaltung und Vandalismus war sie nun dem Verfall preisgegeben. Erst Anfang der 2000er Jahre entdeckte man die baugeschichtliche Bedeutung dieses Solitärs neu und brachte den Willen zur Rettung auf. Den Weg bis zur Instandsetzung der Hyparschale und welche Innovationen des Ingenieurbaus dabei tragend waren, beschreibt der Beitrag.
Systematic assessment of process analytical technologies for biologics
Authors: Gillespie Christopher , Wasalathanthri Dhanuka P. , Ritz Diana B. , Zhou George , Davis Keith A. , Wucherpfennig Thomas , Hazelwood Nadine
Published: November 2021

The application of process analytical technology (PAT) for biotherapeutic development and manufacturing has been employed owing to technological, economic, and regulatory advantages across the industry. Typically, chromatographic, spectroscopic, and/or mass spectrometric sensors are integrated into upstream and downstream unit operations in in‐line, on‐line, or at‐line fashion to enable real‐time monitoring and control of the process. Despite the widespread utility of PAT technologies at various unit operations of the bioprocess, a holistic business value assessment of PAT has not been well addressed in biologics. Thus, in this study, we evaluated PAT technologies based on predefined criteria for their technological attributes such as enablement of better process understanding, control, and high‐throughput capabilities; as well as for business attributes such as simplicity of implementation, lead time, and cost reduction. The study involved an industry‐wide survey, where input from subject matter industry experts on various PAT tools were collected, assessed, and ranked. The survey results demonstrated on‐line liquid Chromatography (LC), in‐line Raman, and gas analysis techniques are of high business value especially at the production bioreactor unit operation of upstream processing. In‐line variable path‐length UV/VIS measurements (VPE), on‐line LC, multiangle light scattering (MALS), and automated sampling are of high business value in Protein A purification and polishing steps of the downstream process. We also provide insights, based on our experience in clinical and commercial manufacturing of biologics, into the development and implementation of some of the PAT tools. The results presented in this study are intended to be helpful for the current practitioners of PAT as well as those new to the field to gauge, prioritize and steer their projects for success.
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis mistaken as a temporomandibular joint disorder: A case report
Authors: Hernández Ivonne A. , Friesen Reid , McGaw Tim , Levin Liran
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), is a rare systemic disease that if left untreated, it may lead to death within 6–12 months. This case report describes a 15‐year‐old female with a 14‐month history of epiphora, nasal breathing difficulties, headaches, and jaw pain. The patient reported having various medical procedures attempted to address her symptoms. The classical presentation of strawberry gingivitis led to the diagnosis of GPA. Based on a multi‐language search, this is the first reported case, that GPA is mistaken as Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD).

Case Presentation

A 15‐year‐old female with nearly 14 months of numerous complaints, including headaches and jaw pain, was referred for an orofacial pain (OFP) consultation. The patient had completed a dental examination and was prescribed chlorhexidine for gingivitis control. The OFP examination was not consistent with signs and symptoms of TMD. However, the gingival appearance of strawberry gingivitis was suggestive of GPA. A rheumatologist confirmed the diagnosis of GPA based on the clinical interview, serology testing, and dental findings. A course of rituximab and corticosteroids, and regular dental cleanings were recommended. A 4‐month follow‐up visit demonstrated complete resolution of her jaw pain and headaches. Gingival tissue appeared normal.

Conclusion

This case emphasizes the need for familiarity with systemic diseases that can present oral manifestations. It also stresses the importance for dental professionals to be knowledgeable of differential diagnoses for TMD, headaches, and autoimmune disorders.

Why is this case new information?

This is believed to be the first published case mistaking GPA as TMD.

This is a case in which a multidisciplinary approach and management were keys for a successful treatment outcome.

What are the keys to successful management of this case?

Obtain a thorough clinical history.

Know the oral manifestation of systemic diseases.

Know differential diagnosis of TMD and headaches.

What are the primary limitations to success in this case?

Having no access to the medical records during the OFP consultation.

Having no awareness of differential diagnosis for gingivitis: strawberry, plaque‐induced.
Radial versus femoral access in patients with coronary artery bypass surgery: Frequentist and Bayesian meta‐analysis
Authors: Nikolakopoulos Ilias , Vemmou Evangelia , Xenogiannis Iosif , Karacsonyi Judit , Rao Sunil V. , Romagnoli Enrico , Tsigkas Grigorios , Milkas Anastasios , Velagapudi Poonam , Alaswad Khaldoon , Rangan Bavana V. , Garcia Santiago , Burke M. Nicholas , Brilakis Emmanouil S.
Published: November 2021

Background

The optimal access site for cardiac catheterization in patients with prior coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) continues to be debated.

Methods

We performed a random effects frequentist and Bayesian meta‐analysis of 4 randomized trials and 18 observational studies, including 60,192 patients with prior CABG (27,236 in the radial group; 32,956 in the femoral group) that underwent cardiac catheterization. Outcomes included (1) access‐site complications, (2) crossover to a different vascular access, (3) procedure time, and (4) contrast volume. Mean differences (MD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for continuous outcomes and odds ratios (OR) and 95% CI for binary outcomes.

Results

Among randomized trials, crossover (OR: 7.63; 95% CI: 2.04, 28.51;p = 0.003) was higher in the radial group, while access site complications (OR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.34, 2.87;p = 0.94) and contrast volume (MD: 15.08; 95% CI: −10.19, 40.35;p = 0.24) were similar. Among observational studies, crossover rates were higher (OR: 5.09; 95% CI: 2.43, 10.65;p < 0.001), while access site complication rates (OR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.30, 0.89;p = 0.02) and contrast volume (MD: −7.52; 95% CI: −13.14, −1.90 ml;p = 0.009) were lower in the radial group. Bayesian analysis suggested that the odds of a difference existing between radial and femoral are small for all endpoints except crossover to another access site.

Conclusion

In a frequentist and Bayesian meta‐analysis of patients with prior CABG undergoing coronary catheterization, radial access was associated with lower incidence of vascular access complications and lower contrast volume but also higher crossover rate.
Electrochemical Stability of Platinum Nanoparticles Supported on N‐Doped Hydrothermal Carbon Aerogels as Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Martin Julian , Melke Julia , Njel Christian , Schökel Alexander , Büttner Jan , Fischer Anna
Published: November 2021

Sustainable N‐doped carbon aerogels were synthesized by a scalable hydrothermal approach using low‐cost and abundant precursors such as glucose and ovalbumin. By adjusting the pyrolysis temperature (900–1500 °C), the surface chemistry, porosity and conductivity of these aerogels could be optimized for the design of Pt‐based oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts with high Pt loading (40 wt % Pt) and improved stability. Pt nanoparticle deposition was realized by wet impregnation followed by thermal reduction and their size and distribution was found to strongly depend on the surface chemistry of the carbon aerogels. The catalysts’ activities and stabilities, determined by rotating disc electrode measurements in HClO4, were found to strongly depend on the pyrolysis temperature of the N‐doped carbon aerogel supports. While the mass activity decreased with increasing temperature, in line with a decreasing ECSA related to an increase in Pt nanoparticle size, the long‐term stability of the catalysts, as revealed by accelerated stress tests for carbon support degradation (10,000 cycles), increased with increasing pyrolysis temperature, in line with increasing Pt nanoparticle sizes and increasing graphitization of the carbon aerogel supports. Most importantly, the catalyst derived from aerogels pyrolyzed at 1000 °C achieved a good compromise between activity and stability and revealed a superior ORR activity after the accelerated stress test in comparison to a commercially available Pt/C reference catalyst (40 wt % Pt).
N‐Aryl and N‐Alkyl Carbamates from 1 Atmosphere of CO2
Authors: Takeuchi Katsuhiko , Chen Ming‐Yu , Yuan Hao‐Yu , Koizumi Hiroki , Matsumoto Kazuhiro , Fukaya Norihisa , Choe Yoong‐Kee , Shigeyasu Shinji , Matsumoto Seiji , Hamura Satoshi , Choi Jun‐Chul
Published: November 2021

We have successfully isolated and characterized the zinc carbamate complex (phen)Zn(OAc)(OC(=O)NHPh) (1; phen=1,10‐phenanthroline), formed as an intermediate during the Zn(OAc)2/phen‐catalyzed synthesis of organic carbamates from CO2, amines, and the reusable reactant Si(OMe)4. Density functional theory calculations revealed that the direct reaction of 1 with Si(OMe)4 proceeds via a five‐coordinate silicon intermediate, forming organic carbamates. Based on these results, the catalytic system was improved by using Si(OMe)4 as the reaction solvent and additives like KOMe and KF, which promote the formation of the five‐coordinated silicon species. This sustainable and effective method can be used to synthesize various N‐aryl and N‐alkyl carbamates, including industrially important polyurethane raw materials, starting from CO2 under atmospheric pressure.
Direct C(sp3)–H Sulfonylation of Xanthene Derivatives with Sodium Sulfinates by Oxidative Copper Catalysis
Authors: Song Qinghao , Zhao He , Sun Yanping , Jiang Huanfeng , Zhang Min
Published: November 2021

Comprehensive Summary

By employing a readily available CuCl/DDQ catalyst system, we herein report a direct C(sp3)–H sulfonylation of xanthene derivates with odorless sodium sulfinates. Various 9H‐xanthenes, thioxanthenes, and 9,10‐dihydroacridines are efficiently transformed into the desired benzylic sulfonyl products via a radical/radical cross‐coupling process, proceeding with the merits of broad substrate scope, operational simplicity, good functional group compatibility, and mild reaction conditions.
Cervical cancer prevention: Human papillomavirus testing as primary screening
Authors: Desai Shreya , Zhu Michelle J. , Lapidos‐Salaiz Ilana
Published: November 2021

Low‐ and middle‐income countries carry a high burden of preventable cervical cancer cases and deaths. Because human papillomavirus DNA‐based testing is increasingly becoming the preferred method of screening for cervical cancer prevention, this commentary discusses next steps and key considerations for its expansion.
Efficient nucleus segmentation of white blood cells mimicking the human perception of color
Authors: García‐Lamont Farid , Alvarado Matías , López‐Chau Asdrúbal , Cervantes Jair
Published: November 2021

In this study, we present a nucleus segmentation proposal of white blood cells (WBCs) using chromatic features. It is human inspired on perception of color: a person locates the nucleus of the WBCs by the chromatic contrast between the nucleus and the other elements of the blood smear. To implement that, we segment the nucleus by selecting the pixels with high chromatic variance. First, an unsupervised neural network, which was trained offline to recognize different colors is applied to the images. Thereby, the hue of the pixels is normalized, and the chromatic variance is accurately computed. Processing the hue and using the unsupervised neural network the brightness and staining variations are robustly estimated. In previous related works, the color components are processed separately as uncorrelated intensity channels, and the mathematical operations are selected intuitively. Unlike that, we use color as a feature without separating the hue components, keeping their correlation, so the formal treat becomes systematic. Experiments use the RGB and HSV spaces with three public image databases: ALL‐IDB2, CellaVision, and JTSC. A pixel‐level segmentation evaluation is performed by comparing the segmented images with the ground truth. Our proposal competes with current methods since the values in accuracy, specificity, precision, sensitivity, dice coefficient, kappa index, and true positive rate all are similar to or improved upon the state of the art. The performance of our approach is classified as excellent regarding the kappa index value, and it detects at least 80% of the cells with an average dice coefficient larger than 0.9.
An ArcGIS Pro workflow to extract vegetation indices from aerial imagery of small‐plot turfgrass research
Authors: Wilber Amy L. , Czarnecki Joby M.P. , McCurdy James D.
Published: November 2021

Collection of multispectral imagery from an aerial sensor is a means to obtain plot‐level vegetation index (VI) values; however, postcapture image processing and analysis remains a challenge for small‐plot researchers. An ArcGIS Pro workflow of two task items was developed with established routines and commands to extract plot‐level VI values (normalized difference VI [NDVI], ratio VI [RVI], and chlorophyll index–red edge [CI‐RE]) from multispectral aerial imagery of small‐plot turfgrass experiments. Users can access and download task items from the ArcGIS Online platform for use in ArcGIS Pro. The workflow standardizes processing of aerial imagery to ensure repeatability between sampling dates and across site locations. A guided workflow saves time with assigned commands, ultimately allowing users to obtain a table with plot descriptions and index values within a .csv file for statistical analysis. The workflow was used to analyze aerial imagery from a small‐plot turfgrass research study evaluating herbicide effects on St. Augustinegrass [Stenotaphrum secundatum (Walt.) Kuntze] grow‐in. To compare methods, index values were extracted from the same aerial imagery by TurfScout, LLC and were obtained by handheld sensor. Index values from the three methods were correlated with visual percentage cover to determine sensitivity (i.e., the ability to detect differences) of the different methodologies. Index values collected by handheld sensor were more sensitive to visual cover than those extracted from aerial imagery. Index values extracted by TurfScout, LLC were generally more sensitive to visual percentage cover than the workflow extraction method, but both detected similar trends of increasing index values as percentage cover increased.
Fasting C‐peptide at type 2 diabetes diagnosis is an independent risk factor for total and cancer mortality
Authors: Otten Julia , Tavelin Björn , Söderberg Stefan , Rolandsson Olov
Published: November 2021

Aims

We assessed the association between insulin resistance and blood glucose concentrations at type 2 diabetes diagnosis and future development of diabetes‐related complications and mortality.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 864 individuals with type 2 diabetes (median age 60 years) whose fasting C‐peptide and HbA1c were measured at diabetes diagnosis. The median follow‐up time until death or study end was 16.4 years (interquartile range 13.3−19.6). The association between C‐peptide and mortality/complications was estimated by Cox regression adjusted for sex, age at diabetes diagnosis, smoking, hypertension, BMI, total cholesterol, and HbA1c. C‐peptide and HbA1c were converted to Z scores before the Cox regression analysis.

Results

An increase by one standard deviation in fasting C‐peptide at diabetes diagnosis was associated with all‐cause (hazard ratio [HR] 1.33; 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.12–1.58; p = 0.001) and cancer mortality (HR 1.51; 95% CI 1.13–2.01; p = 0.005) in the fully adjusted model. An increase by one standard deviation in HbA1c at diabetes diagnosis was associated with all‐cause mortality (HR 1.24; 95% CI 1.07–1.44; p = 0.005), major cardiovascular events (HR 1.20; 95% CI 1.04–1.39; p = 0.015), stroke (HR 1.36; 95% CI 1.09–1.70; p = 0.006), and retinopathy (HR 1.54; 95% CI 1.34–1.76; p < 0.0001) in the fully adjusted model.

Conclusions

Fasting C‐peptide at type 2 diabetes diagnosis is an independent risk factor for total and cancer‐related mortality. Thus, treatment of type 2 diabetes should focus not only on normalising blood glucose levels but also on mitigating insulin resistance.
Habitat use and spatio‐temporal interactions of mule and white‐tailed deer in an area of sympatry in NE Washington
Authors: Staudenmaier Anna R. , Shipley Lisa A. , Bibelnieks Andris J. , Camp Meghan J. , Thornton Daniel H.
Published: November 2021

Sympatric species that are ecologically similar must either segregate through habitat disassociation or engage in biotic interactions with one another. Mule (Odocoileus hemionus) and white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are similar ungulate species that are distributed across North America in both areas of sympatry and allopatry. Over many decades, white‐tailed deer have been expanding their range into areas historically used allopatrically by mule deer, potentially leading to increased interactions between the species. However, the degree to which the two species segregate spatio‐temporally or engage in agonistic interactions is yet unclear. Therefore, to compare their realized habitat niches in an area of sympatry, we determined presence and absence of both deer species at 312 camera traps during the summers of 2018–2019 across a range of elevations and habitats in the Colville National Forest (CNF) in northeastern Washington. We compared characteristics of habitats used by the two species using single‐species occupancy models and found that topography was the strongest predictor of differing habitat use. Mule deer were more likely to occupy steep slopes and higher elevations and white‐tailed deer more likely to occupy shallower slopes and lower elevations. Using conditional, two‐species occupancy modeling, we found that after accounting for differences in habitat selection between the species, mule and white‐tailed deer occurred independently of one another in the CNF during summer. We found no evidence for temporal segregation, with ˜90% overlap in daily activity patterns and similar elapsed time between subsequent intra‐ and interspecies detections at the 21% of camera sites where both species were detected. Niche segregation along topographic gradients in our study system likely reduces the potential for current interspecies interactions, positive or negative, to occur in this system. However, we did not find any evidence of ongoing spatio‐temporal avoidance, even in areas of the landscape where both species were detected (e.g., sharing habitat). Therefore, although our observational study cannot rule out that contemporaneous habitat segregation is evidence of past competitive interactions between the species, our research does not strongly support the contention that agonistic interactions are currently occurring between mule and white‐tailed deer.
Road salt inputs alter biogeochemistry but not plant community composition in exurban forested wetlands
Authors: Walker Samantha E. , Robbins Gary , Helton Ashley M. , Lawrence Beth A.
Published: November 2021

Forested wetlands of the temperate north are increasingly exposed to deicing salts, but it is unclear how this may alter wetland biogeochemistry and plant community composition. To investigate potential effects of deicing salts on exurban forested wetlands in southern New England, we employed a multi‐site field study to describe spatiotemporal patterns of soil physiochemical, water quality, and vegetation characteristics with distance from road deicing salt source. We surveyed nine road‐adjacent, red maple‐dominated wetlands to quantify a suite of soil parameters (Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), heavy metals, N, P, and soil moisture), as well as surface and groundwater salinity, and vegetation communities. With increasing distance from roads along 165‐m transects penetrating into each wetland, soil salinity (EC, Na+) decreased, while soil base cation concentrations (Mg2+, Ca2+) increased, likely due to cation exchange (Na+displacing other base cations). We also measured foliar chemistry and observed elevated Na+and reduced Mg2+of dominant species leaf tissue near roads, suggesting plant nutrient uptake responds to road salt‐related changes in soil physicochemical variables. Despite this, we did not detect differences in plant community composition (ground, shrub layers) along road salt‐induced soil chemistry gradients in the field, likely because surface and groundwater salinities were relatively low (maximum: 0.64 ppt). To determine at which field salinities we could potentially expect changes in wetland plant communities, we conducted a full‐factorial, manipulative seed bank experiment to examine how NaCl concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 parts per thousand (ppt)), frequency of salt exposure (pulse, constant), and water level (surface, 2 cm below surface) affected soil seed bank responses. Seedling richness was reduced at salinities exceeding 1 ppt, and seedling density was reduced above 2 ppt, but pulsing tended to alleviate salt‐induced reductions in seed bank responses. As salinization of freshwater ecosystems continues to increase, our results suggest that field salinity levels of exurban New England forested wetlands are nearing yet still typically below the threshold for which we expect to see strong plant community responses.
Liquid chromatographic method to follow‐up ceftazidime and pyridine in portable elastomeric infusion pumps over 24 h
Authors: Nguyen Tam , Menten Laurien , Spriet Isabel , Quintens Charlotte , Van Schepdael Ann , Adams Erwin
Published: November 2021

Portable infusion pumps are an interesting solution to continue outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) at the patient's home. However, the use of ceftazidime for such applications is challenging in view of its relatively poor stability in solution. In this study, elastomeric infusion pumps with 6 or 7 g of ceftazidime were deflated over 24 h in an oven at 33°C while ceftazidime and its degradation product, pyridine, were regularly monitored. Hereto, a fast and sensitive liquid chromatographic (LC) method has been developed using a Kinetex® C18 (150 × 3 mm, 2.6 μm) column with gradient elution. Ammonium formate 20 mM and acetonitrile (ACN) were mixed in a ratio of 98:2 v/v for mobile phase A and 85:15 v/v for mobile phase B. Both were adjusted to pH 4.5 with formic acid. The flow rate was set at 0.4 mL/min. The solution with a starting dose of 6 g ceftazidime was found to be degraded 10% after an average of 19 h 11 min so that an administration of 6 g to the patient was not reached. For the solution with a starting dose of 7 g of ceftazidime, 10% degradation was observed after an average of 18 h 42 min. However, by starting from a higher dose, an average of 6.56 g of ceftazidime could be administered over 24 h. In addition, 1.0% of pyridine versus ceftazidime pentahydrate with sodium carbonate (=mixture for injection) was formed over 24 h.
Lens antenna adjustment for telecommunication and imaging modes in a sub‐THz radio system
Authors: Ghavidel Ali , Myllymäki Sami , Kokkonen Mikko , Tervo Nuutti , Jantunen Heli
Published: November 2021

This article presents a concept of a dual‐mode operated sub‐THz frequency radio system by adjusting the lens‐antenna distance for either telecommunication or imaging modes. The signal transmittance and imaging capabilities are demonstrated using a continuous wave operated transceiver with operation frequency 220 to 330 GHz where the 6G wireless radio system could be allocated. A high‐gain bullet‐shape lens antenna was investigated for imaging the natural object (Bergenia leaf) in the short‐range line‐of‐sight radio link. The bullet lens performed with the gain of 28 dB and the 1° beamwidth over the frequency band. For the demonstration of dual‐mode operation, the leaf was placed into the middle of the radio link path and then its image was synthesized at three lenses to the antenna‐distances by utilizing the inverse synthetic‐aperture radar technique. For image synthesizing, the movement pattern area (100 mm × 100 mm) is defined with 5 mm steps to sweep the object area. Three 100 mm × 100 mm images by 5 mm steps from different lens positions in focal axis distances (4, 15, and 30 mm were synthesized. The comparison shows that 15 mm distance has the highest gain and 30 mm distance has the higher image quality. Therefore, there is the possibility to switch from the high gain low‐resolution mode to the low gain high‐resolution mode by changing the lens position in terms of the feed. The imaging feasibility can be applied at 6G radio systems if adjustable lens systems are used revealing the new potential features in future radios.
Reshaping the Tree of Life: ecological implications of evolution in the Anthropocene
Authors: Capps Krista A , Chapman Susan , Clay Keith , Fresnedo‐Ramírez Jonathan , Potts Daniel L
Published: November 2021

Novel in their scope and intensity, human‐mediated changes in genetic diversity through directed gene transfer technologies and longer standing human‐driven selective pressures, such as land‐use change, species introductions, mass extinctions, and broad application of antibiotics, are combining to reorganize mechanisms of evolution. The evolutionary consequences of anthropogenic change can be observed across levels of biological organization and are influencing the rate of micro‐ and macroevolutionary changes, as well as feedback among them. This may have large‐scale effects on the provisioning of ecosystem services, food security, and human health. Here, we summarize several of the ecological implications of human modification of evolutionary dynamics, focusing specifically on emerging molecular technologies, to highlight some of the challenges in predicting subsequent changes in the world’s ecosystems.
Effects of Richardson and Biot number on double‐diffusive Casson fluid flow with viscous dissipation
Authors: M. Chandrashekar Kemparaju , Nandeppanavar Mahantesh M. , Nagaraj Raveendra , Madikiri Sreelatha
Published: November 2021

An analysis is done of the effect of Richardson and Biot number on double‐diffusive mixed convective Casson fluid stream with viscous dissipation on warmth and mass stream with convective limit conditions and radiating vertical plate. The R‐K method with shooting procedure is used to solve the transformed equations mathematically. The accuracy of the numerical procedure has been validated through a comparison of the current work compared with prior available results. The sheer surface stress, Nusselt, and Sherwood number are increased with enhancement in Prandtl number. The Biot number Βi > 0.1 is investigated and increasing Biot number is observed to enhance the friction coefficient, Nusselt, and Sherwood number are increased. The influence of pertinent constraints on distinct flow parameters is determined and analyzed through tables and graphs.
Noninvasive risk stratification of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasia with malignant potential by serum apolipoprotein‐A2‐isoforms
Authors: Felix Klaus , Honda Kazufumi , Nagashima Kengo , Kashiro Ayumi , Takeuchi Keiko , Kobayashi Takashi , Hinterkopf Sascha , Gaida Matthias M. , Dang Hien , Brindl Niall , Kaiser Jörg , Büchler Markus W. , Strobel Oliver
Published: November 2021

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are premalignant lesions of pancreatic cancer. An accurate serum biomarker, which allows earlier identification of asymptomatic individuals with high‐risk for developing cancer, is of urgent need. Apolipoprotein A2‐isoforms (apoA2‐i) have previously been identified as biomarkers in pancreatic cancer. This study investigates a potential clinical application of the serum apoA2‐i for risk stratification of IPMN and associated cancer. The concentrations of apoA2‐i were retrospectively determined in 523 patient sera specimen, composed of 305 IPMNs with preinvasive lesions with different grades of dysplasia and invasive cancer, 140 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, 78 with other cystic lesions and healthy controls cohorts, using an apoA2‐i enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit. The diagnostic performance of serum apoA2‐i was assessed and compared to routine clinical marker CA 19‐9. ApoA2‐i levels were significantly reduced in all IPMN samples regardless of stage compared to healthy controls. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of IPMNs with high‐grade dysplasia and IPMN with associated carcinoma revealed the area under curve (AUC) of 0.91 and >0.94, respectively. The respective sensitivities were 70% and 83% with a specificity of 95%, and significantly higher than the gold standard biomarker CA 19‐9. AUC values of apoA2‐i for detecting IPMN‐associated carcinoma of colloid and ductal subtypes were 0.990 and 0.885, respectively. ApoA2‐i has the potential to early detect the risk of malignancy of patients with IPMN. The serological apoA2‐i test in combination with imaging modalities could help improve the diagnosis of IPMN malignancy. Further validation in larger and independent international cohort studies is needed.
The association between SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and late pregnancy loss
Authors: Ganor Paz Yael , Shiloh Sivan , Brosh‐Nissimov Tal , Grupel Daniel , Sorek Nadav , Kustin Talia , Stern Adi , Maklakovsky Marina , Polak Mia , Sharvit Merav , Neeman Ortal , Ben Valid Tal , Tovbin Josef , Barzilay Eran
Published: November 2021

SARS‐CoV‐2 vertical transmission with confirmed placental infection, confirmed by whole genome sequencing of the virus, may be a contributing factor to fetal demise.
Unnexins: Homologs of innexin proteins in Trypanosomatidae parasites
Authors: Güiza Juan , García Aníbal , Arriagada Javiera , Gutiérrez Camila , González Jorge , Márquez‐Miranda Valeria , Alegría‐Arcos Melissa , Duarte Yorley , Rojas Maximiliano , González‐Nilo Fernando , Sáez Juan C. , Vega José L.
Published: November 2021

Large‐pore channels, including those formed by connexin, pannexin, innexin proteins, are part of a broad family of plasma membrane channels found in vertebrates and invertebrates, which share topology features. Despite their relevance in parasitic diseases such as Chagas and malaria, it was unknown whether these large‐pore channels are present in unicellular organisms. We identified 14 putative proteins in Trypanosomatidae parasites as presumptive homologs of innexin proteins. All proteins possess the canonical motif of the innexin family, a pentapeptide YYQWV, and 10 of them share a classical membrane topology of large‐pore channels. A sequence similarity network analysis confirmed their closeness to innexin proteins. A bioinformatic model showed that a homolog of Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi) could presumptively form a stable octamer channel with a highly positive electrostatic potential in the internal cavities and extracellular entrance due to the notable predominance of residues such as Arg or Lys. In vitro dye uptake assays showed that divalent cations‐free solution increases YO‐PRO‐1 uptake and hyperosmotic stress increases DAPI uptake in epimastigotes of T. cruzi. Those effects were sensitive to probenecid. Furthermore, probenecid reduced the proliferation and transformation of T. cruzi. Moreover, probenecid or carbenoxolone increased the parasite sensitivity to antiparasitic drugs commonly used in therapy against Chagas. Our study suggests the existence of innexin homologs in unicellular organisms, which could be protein subunits of new large‐pore channels in unicellular organisms.
Tangibility of representations in engineering courses and the workplace
Authors: Barner Matthew S. , Adam Brown Shane , Bornasal Floraliza , Linton David
Published: November 2021

Background

Situated cognition theory suggests that representations of concepts are products of the environment wherein we learn and apply concepts. This research builds on situated cognition by investigating how concepts are tangible to a professional engineering environment.

Purpose/Hypothesis

The tangibility of concepts in relation to social and material contexts was defined and explored in this study. Specifically, the conceptual representations of structural loads were examined within workplace and academic environments.

Design/Method

A researcher conducted ethnographic fieldwork at a private engineering firm and in undergraduate engineering courses. Data sources from this fieldwork included the ethnographer's participant‐observation field notes, formal and informal interviews, and artifact documentation.

Results

Findings from this study described how academic representations of structural loads are more or less tangible to the social and material contexts of engineering practice. Representations documented in the workplace were found to be tangible to (1) real‐world conditions, (2) project/stakeholder constraints, and (3) engineering tools. Conversely, representations documented in the courses studied exhibited various degrees of tangibility to none, some, or all of these three traits.

Conclusions

These findings explicitly identify the ways in which representations of structural loads differ across academic and workplace environments and how these differences may contribute to the education–practice gap. Specific suggestions for making academic representations more tangible to workplace environments are provided based on findings from in the workplace, previous engineering education literature, and best practices observed in the courses studied. Future research considerations and the value of ethnographic methodology to situated cognition theory are also discussed.
Southwest Pacific tropical cyclone development classification utilizing machine learning and synoptic composites
Authors: Bhowmick Rupsa , Trepanier Jill C. , Haberlie Alex M.
Published: November 2021

This study evaluates the ability of machine learning algorithms to classify tropical depressions (TDs) and tropical storms (TSs) in the western region of the southwest Pacific Ocean (SWPO). Decision rules are generated to predict the environment required for a depression to fully develop into a mature storm, and the most influential predictors in the classification decision are ranked. TD and TS are discriminated based on a maximum sustained wind speed threshold (≥17 ms−1). Various aerosol, thermodynamic, and dynamic parameters are extracted closest to the initiation point of each non‐developing and developing sample. The covariates associated with each labelled sample are used to train a decision tree and random forest model. Results using a testing dataset suggest the random forest approach more accurately distinguishes between non‐developing and developing samples. The classification accuracy of the decision tree and random forest are 72% and 91%, respectively. Random forest outperformed the decision tree by providing higher accuracy in test data. The most important variables for binary classification are sea salt aerosol optical depth (AOD), 1,000 mb relative humidity, and sea surface temperature. AOD is a quantitative estimate of the aerosols presents in the air through the extinction of a ray of light as it passes through the atmosphere. Mean composite maps constructed in an unsupervised manner have been created for the most important variables identified by the random forest classifier during TD and TS events to highlight the difference in geophysical and aerosol variables' climatology during the two different classifications. This work will advance the risk management strategies for northeastern Australia and other SWPO basin islands to control their tropical cyclone related losses through prioritizing forecasting variables that are the strongest predictors of the strengthening of tropical depressions into tropical cyclones.
Bringing seascape ecology to the deep seabed: A review and framework for its application
Authors: Swanborn Denise J.B. , Huvenne Veerle A.I. , Pittman Simon J. , Woodall Lucy C.
Published: November 2021

Seascape ecology is an emerging pattern‐oriented and integrative science conceptually linked to landscape ecology. It aims to quantify multidimensional spatial structure in the sea and reveal its ecological consequences. The seascape ecology approach has made important advances in shallow coastal environments, and increasing exploration and mapping of the deep seabed provides opportunities for application in the deep ocean. We argue that seascape ecology, with its integrative and multiscale perspective, can generate new scientific insights at spatial and temporal scales relevant to ecosystem‐based management. Seascape ecology provides a conceptual and operational framework that integrates and builds on existing benthic ecology and habitat mapping research by providing additional pattern‐oriented concepts, tools and techniques to (1) quantify complex ecological patterns across multiple scales; (2) link spatial patterns to biodiversity and ecological processes; and (3) provide ecologically meaningful information that is operationally relevant to spatial management. This review introduces seascape ecology and provides a framework for its application to deep‐seabed environments. Research areas are highlighted where seascape ecology can advance the ecological understanding of deep benthic environments.
Enhanced Strong Coupling of TMDC Monolayers by Bound State in the Continuum
Authors: Al‐Ani Ibrahim A. M. , As'Ham Khalil , Huang Lujun , Miroshnichenko Andrey E. , Hattori Haroldo T.
Published: November 2021

Transition‐metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) monolayers have been considered a perfect platform for realizing exciton‐polariton at room temperature due to their direct bandgap and large binding energy of exciton. It is well established that strong coupling depends on the field enhancement induced by optical nanocavity with a high‐quality factor (Q‐factor). In this work, the enhanced strong coupling between the exciton of TMDC monolayer and the cavity resonance based on a symmetry protected magnetic dipole (MD) bound state in the continuum (BIC) and electric toroidal dipole (TD) BIC is demonstrated. It is found that strong coupling can be realized between the exciton in a TMDC monolayer and quasi‐BIC (QBIC) by varying the incidence angle, period of the grating, the width of the slit, and the position of the slit for symmetry protected BIC. Besides, strong coupling between exciton and TD BIC is also demonstrated by integrating a WSe2 monolayer onto a compound grating. It is found that Rabi‐splitting strongly depends on the location of TMDC monolayer, Q‐factor of the resonator, and the thickness of the structure. By carefully adjusting these three critical parameters, Rabi‐splitting can be up to 38 (1L‐WSe2), 65 (1L‐WS2), 40 (1L‐MoSe2), and 60 meV(1L‐MoS2).
Efficacy and safety of CO2 laser in the treatment of chronic wounds: A Retrospective Matched Cohort Trial
Authors: Guan Haonan , Zhang Di , Ma Xian , Lu Yechen , Dong Jiaoyun , Niu Yiwen , Liu Yingkai , Lu Shuliang , Xu Jiping , Tang Jiajun
Published: November 2021

Objectives

Treating chronic cutaneous wounds is challenging, and debridement is a central concept in treating them. Studies have shown that CO2 laser debridement can control local infection and promote the wound healing process. The present study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of fully ablative CO2 laser debridement compared to routine surgical debridement in the treatment of chronic wounds.

Methods

The retrospective cohort study was conducted on patients with chronic (>1 month) cutaneous wounds (≥1 cm2) between December 1, 2017, and December 1, 2020, in the Wound Healing Center at Shanghai Ruijin Hospital, China. Patients treated with CO2 laser debridement with a DEKA SmartXide2 C80 (DEKA) (the CO2 laser group) were compared with matched control patients with similar baseline characteristics who had undergone routine surgical debridement (the routine group). The primary outcome was time‐to‐heal (days) for chronic wounds in two groups, and secondary outcomes included the wound area and BWAT (Bates–Jensen wound assessment tool) score before treatment, and at 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks after treatment.

Results

The study included 164 patients (82 in the CO2 laser group and 82 matched in the routine group). The time‐to‐heal for patients in the CO2 laser group (41.30 ± 17.11) was significantly shorter than that of the patients in the routine group (48.51 ± 24.32) (p = 0.015). At 3 and 4 weeks after treatment, the absolute wound area of the CO2 laser group was significantly smaller than that of the routine group. Also, the CO2 laser group exhibited a significantly lower relative area at 2, 3, and 4 weeks after treatment. The CO2 laser group yielded significantly lower BWAT scores at 2, 3, and 4 weeks after treatment. Additionally, the relative BWAT score was significantly lower in the CO2 laser group than the relative scores in the routine group at 2, 3, and 4 weeks after treatment. No adverse events related to the treatments were observed in either group during the study period.

Conclusions

The present study has shown that fully ablative CO2 laser debridement has several advantages over routine sharp surgical debridement. It is superior at ameliorating wound status and reducing wound area, and it also significantly reduces the time‐to‐heal for chronic wounds, without causing any adverse events.
Quantitative investigation of laser ablation based on real‐time temperature variations and OCT images for laser treatment applications
Authors: Fan Yingwei , Ma Qiong , Li Mengsha , Luan Dian , Kang Hongxiang
Published: November 2021

Background and Objective

Lasers are widely employed in clinical applications. In vivo monitoring of real‐time information about different‐wavelength laser surgeries would provide important surgical feedback for surgeons or clinical therapy instruments. However, the quantitative effect of laser ablation or vaporization still needs to be further explored and investigated. Here, we investigate and quantitatively evaluate the ablation variations and morphological changes of two laser ablation models: point‐ and sweeping‐based models.

Methods

An infrared thermal imager was used to monitor the temperature variations, and curve fitting was used to build the relationship between the laser radiation duration/sweeping speed and quantitative parameters of the ablated areas. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) images were used to visualize the inner structure and evaluate the depth of the ablated craters. Optical attenuation coefficients (OACs) were computed to characterize the normal and ablated tissues.

Results

The results demonstrated that there was a good linear relationship between radiation duration and temperature variation. Similarly, a linear relationship was observed between the sweeping speed and quantitative parameters of craters or scratches (width and depth). The mean OAC of normal tissues was significantly distinguished from the mean OACs of the ablated craters or scratches.

Conclusion

Laser ablation was investigated based on a quantitative parameter analysis, thermal detection, and OCT imaging, and the results successfully demonstrated that there is a linear relationship between the laser parameters and quantitative parameters of the ablated tissues under the current settings. Such technology could be used to provide quantitative solutions for exploring the laser‐tissue biological effect and improve the performance of medical image‐guided laser ablation in the future.