bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semi‐supervised interactive fusion network for MR image segmentation
Authors: Xu Wenxuan , Bian Yun , Lu Yuxuan , Meng Qingquan , Zhu Weifang , Shi Fei , Chen Xinjian , Shao Chengwei , Xiang Dehui
Published: November 2022

Background

Medical image segmentation is an important task in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers. The low contrast and highly flexible anatomical structure make it challenging to accurately segment the organs or lesions.

Purpose

To improve the segmentation accuracy of the organs or lesions in magnetic resonance (MR) images, which can be useful in clinical diagnosis and treatment of cancers.

Methods

First, a selective feature interaction (SFI) module is designed to selectively extract the similar features of the sequence images based on the similarity interaction. Second, a multi‐scale guided feature reconstruction (MGFR) module is designed to reconstruct low‐level semantic features and focus on small targets and the edges of the pancreas. Third, to reduce manual annotation of large amounts of data, a semi‐supervised training method is also proposed. Uncertainty estimation is used to further improve the segmentation accuracy.

Results

Three hundred ninety‐five 3D MR images from 395 patients with pancreatic cancer, 259 3D MR images from 259 patients with brain tumors, and four‐fold cross‐validation strategy are used to evaluate the proposed method. Compared to state‐of‐the‐art deep learning segmentation networks, the proposed method can achieve better segmentation of pancreas or tumors in MR images.

Conclusions

SFI‐Net can fuse dual sequence MR images for abnormal pancreas or tumor segmentation. The proposed semi‐supervised strategy can further improve the performance of SFI‐Net.
Antimicrobial dual ionic‐covalent k‐carrageenan/carboxymethyl chitosan membranes with robust moisture retention property
Authors: Zhang Hai‐qiang , Zhou Jiale , Wang Hai , Lan Dongwei , Peng Yan , Li Zhi , Dai Fangyin
Published: November 2022

To develop an antimicrobial membrane for wound healing, the blended k‐carrageenan (KC)/carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCH) membranes were fabricated through a freeze‐drying process together with a dual‐ion (Cu2+and K+ or Cu2+and Ca2+) crosslinking approach. The dual‐ion crosslinking by Cu2+and K+ could not only make the membranes compact but could also improve the uptake capacity and mechanical properties of the fabricated membranes. The maximum tensile stress of membranes reached up to 43 MPa and the highest swelling ratio was around 5500%, exhibiting robust moisture retention property. The CMCH and Cu2+ in blended membranes provided a good antimicrobial property against gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria. Moreover, the fabricated membranes showed good cytocompatibility. These results indicated the fabricated KC/CMCH membranes with dual‐ion by Cu2+ and K+ have favorable properties and have a great potential for application in wound healing.
Caring for carers within the psychiatry workforce
Authors: Maitra Raka , McCowan Sue , Cohen Marta C
Published: November 2022

Caring responsibilities for children and family members with complex health care needs often go unnoticed among health care staff. Statistically, a significant portion of these responsibilities are met by women, widening the gender pay gap. This article highlights the impact of caring responsibilities on physicians and the need for more inclusive work and leave policies to support recruitment and retention of this workforce, valuing both professional and lived experience in care giving.
Blood‐based biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Chohan Priyanka , Dashwood Mark , Theodoulou George , Reed Hannah , Kuruvilla Tarun
Published: November 2022

Blood‐based biomarkers for identifying Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology have been of considerable interest over the past decade and can offer a significant advantage over the currently available and validated cerebrospinal fluid and positron emission tomography biomarkers in terms of cost, invasiveness and accessibility. This review explores the role of three blood‐based biomarkers; plasma amyloid β, tau and neurofilament light chain, and their combination, in the identification of AD pathology and how they may be utilised in clinical practice.
A challenging case of mixed dementia with inappropriate sexual behaviours
Authors: Suppamutharwyam Malarkodi , Khieng Tiong Ing
Published: November 2022

Sexual disinhibition in dementia is a distressing and embarrassing behaviour. Currently, there are no guideline‐directed management aims to address this behaviour in patients with dementia. This case report highlights a combined non‐pharmacological and pharmacological approach for managing dementia in a patient who showed marked sexual disinhibition.
Validation of the Distress Thermometer in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Reynolds Bronagh , O'Connell Susan , Cullen Breda
Published: November 2022

The Distress Thermometer (DT) has been validated across various medical conditions, but no studies have investigated its performance in people with Parkinson's disease (PD). In this study, the authors aimed to determine if the DT is valid and reliable in a sample of participants with PD recruited from a movement disorder clinic. Use of a tool such as the DT allows staff to identify and address the most distressing symptoms and refer patients on for specialist input when needed.
Duration of the patient interval in breast cancer and factors associated with longer delays in low‐and middle‐income countries: A systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Petrova Dafina , Garrido Dunia , Špacírová Zuzana , Fernández‐Martínez Nicolás Francisco , Ivanova Ganka , Rodríguez‐Barranco Miguel , Pollán Marina , Barrios‐Rodríguez Rocío , Sánchez Maria José
Published: November 2022

Objective

Breast cancer survival is lower in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) partially due to many women being diagnosed with late‐stage disease. The patient interval refers to the time elapsed between the detection of symptoms and the first consultation with a healthcare provider and is considered one of the core indicators for early diagnosis and treatment. The goal of the current research was to conduct a meta‐analysis of the duration of the patient interval in LMICs and investigate the socio‐demographic and socio‐cultural factors related to longer delays in presentation.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review with meta‐analysis (pre‐registered protocol CRD42020200752). We searched seven information sources (2009–2022) and included 50 articles reporting the duration of patient intervals for 18,014 breast cancer patients residing in LMICs.

Results

The longest patient intervals were reported in studies from the Middle East (3–4 months), followed by South‐East Asia (2 months), Africa (1–2 months), Latin America (1 month), and Eastern Europe (1 month). Older age, not being married, lower socio‐economic status, illiteracy, low knowledge about cancer, disregarding symptoms or not attributing them to cancer, fear, negative beliefs about cancer, and low social support were related to longer delays across most regions. Longer delays were also related to use of alternative medicine in the Middle East, South‐East Asia, and Africa and distrust in the healthcare system in Eastern Europe.

Conclusions

There is large variation in the duration of patient intervals across LMICs in different geographical regions. Patient intervals should be reduced and, for this purpose, it is important to explore their determinants taking into account the social, cultural, and economic context.
Multiple Re‐Entrant Star‐Shaped Honeycomb with Double Negative Parameters and Bandgap Properties
Authors: Liu Haitao , Ren Fuguang , Liu Kangjia , Li Xiaojia
Published: November 2022

Achieving bandgaps and double negative properties with single‐phase metamaterial in the low‐frequency range remains a challenge. Currently, acoustic metamaterials with double negative parameters are made of different materials, which can limit their application and design. Herein, a single‐phase multiple re‐entrant star‐shaped honeycomb (MRSSH) is designed and the double negative parameters and bandgaps are simulated. The numerical results show that the MRSSH exhibits three bandgaps and double negative characteristics (negative effective mass density and negative effective modulus) within a certain frequency range. The formation mechanics of bandgaps are investigated by analyzing the vibration modes. Moreover, the effects of geometry parameters such as internal concave angle and re‐entrant on the bandgaps and vibration modes of the MRSSH are investigated. By adjusting the geometry parameters, the dispersion curves and bandgap distribution can be tuned simultaneously. This study provides a new idea for designing a single‐phase lightweight metamaterial that can apply to noised reduction, vibration control, and super‐resolution imaging.
Developing CHCA/PPD as a novel matrix for enhanced matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐mass spectrometry imaging for analysis of antibiotics in grass carp tissues
Authors: Qiu Xin , Chen Fengming , Liu Tong , Feng Feng , Zhang Yuan , Feng Xuesong , Zhang Feng
Published: November 2022

Antibiotics have important medical value, but they need to be monitored when used as veterinary drugs. We report α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid/p‐phenylenediamine (CHCA/PPD) hybrid as a novel matrix for enhanced matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI‐MSI) in situ the spatial distribution of antibiotic drugs in grass carp tissues.

Method

We have used MALDI‐TOF‐MSI in positive ion mode for the analysis of quinolones and sulfonamides in grass carps. A novel CHCA/PPD matrix was prepared and applied using a simple method to improve the analysis.

Results

Compared with the traditional matrix, CHCA/PPD significantly improved the detection intensity of quinolones and sulfonamides with better sensitivity (17.20%–94.30%) and reproducibility. For demonstration, this novel matrix was successfully applied to visualize enrofloxacin (ENR) in grass carp tissues, with the entire abundance differences clearly observed based on MALDI‐MSI. The concentration levels in different tissues were determined, with a calibration curve of 10–2000 μg/ml (R2 > 0.993).

Conclusion

This study was the first to introduce CHCA/PPD as a novel matrix, and the classical acid–base mixing was used to improve the ionization effect of the traditional matrix CHCA in MALDI. Based on CHCA/PPD, MALDI‐MSI detected ENR in different grass carp tissues for the first time and realized the spatial distribution and concentration detection.
Two‐step particle swarm optimization algorithm for effective deconvolution and resolution enhancement of various overlapping peaks
Authors: Ji Xiaoli , Liu Rong , Hao Jie , Wang Chenlu , Li Junhui , Gao Wenqing , Yu Jiancheng , Tang Keqi
Published: November 2022

Rationale

The existing particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithms are only effective in deconvoluting the overlapping peaks in ion mobility spectra with fewer than four component peaks, which limits the applicability of these algorithms.

Methods

A high‐performance two‐step particle swarm optimization (TSPSO) algorithm was developed. Compared to the existing PSO algorithms, TSPSO can narrow the search ranges of all coefficients for the overlapping peaks through Gaussian model calculation, and thus can deconvolute various overlapping peaks with high accuracy, even for 30‐component overlapping peaks. In addition, the TSPSO could be further applied to enhance the resolution of the spectra by narrowing the peak widths after the peak deconvolution.

Results

Simulated overlapping peaks were first used to evaluate the performance of TSPSO as compared to the dynamic inertia weight particle swarm optimization (DIWPSO) algorithm. The results showed that the profiles of the peaks deconvoluted by using TSPSO were more consistent with the original ones. The fitness values and the standard deviations of the fitness values from TSPSO were also at least an order of magnitude less than those from DIWPSO. By applying TSPSO, the overlapping peaks from both mass spectrometry (MS) and field asymmetric waveform ion mobility spectrometry (FAIMS) spectra can also be well deconvoluted. In addition, the resolutions of the MS and FAIMS spectra can be effectively enhanced after peak deconvolution. The enhanced spectra matched excellently with the experimental ones acquired at high‐resolution modes.

Conclusions

The experiment results convincingly demonstrate that the TSPSO algorithm is capable of both deconvoluting complex overlapping peaks and enhancing the spectrum resolution with high accuracy.
Sexuality education as developmentally appropriate in the American Catholic Higher Education Curriculum
Authors: Levand Mark A.
Published: November 2022

Scholars have urged institutions of higher learning to include academy engagement with sexuality education in recent years. While Catholic colleges and universities specifically express the concern for whole‐person development, there has only been recent calls to include this topic when addressing student affairs. If left out of the larger curriculum, this part of the human experience can often be left unexamined. After identifying the agreement between the church and secular US national sex ed standards on developmentally appropriate sexuality education, I identify the breadth and complexity of what is meant by “sexuality” followed by the social and cognitive developmental theories that substantiate the need for sexuality information at the college level. I conclude with further support in church documents for the inclusion of sexuality education in Catholic higher learning for the more fully integrated experience of human sexuality.
Conducting Polymers: A Versatile Material for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Benny Mattam Liya , Bijoy Anusha , Abraham Thadathil Ditto , George Louis , Varghese Anitha
Published: November 2022

Conducting polymers (CPs) are organic polymers with metallic conductivity or semiconducting properties which have drawn considerable attention globally. They are versatile materials because of their excellent environmental stability, electrical conductivity, economic importance as well as optical and electronic properties. CPs are interesting because they can be functionalized in several ways and the chemical properties are fine‐tuned by incorporating new functionalities, making them more suitable in biomedical and other applications. They act as appropriate mediums of biomolecules and can be employed to improve the speed, stability, and sensitivity of various biomedical devices. They can transit between conducting and semiconducting states and have the ability to change mechanical properties by regulated doping, chemical modifications, etc. In this paper, we review the potential biomedical uses of conducting polymers such as smart textiles, bioactuators, hydrogels, and the use of CPs in neural prosthetic devices.
Hyaluronidase Inhibitory Activity and In Silico Docking Study of New Eugenol 1,2,3‐triazole Derivatives
Authors: Elattar Eman M. , Galala Amal A. , Saad Hassan‐Elrady A. , Badria Farid A.
Published: November 2022

Chemical transformation study is considered as an important tool for new drugs discovery. It was conducted on the natural compound eugenol for semi‐synthesizing new structural scaffolds. Three new eugenol 1,2,3‐triazole derivatives as well as a known one were synthesizedviaclick chemistry using the Cu(I)‐catalyzed azide–alkyne 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition method. All derivatives were characterized by NMR analysis in combination with ESIMS. Molecular docking andin vitroinhibition potency of eugenol and its derivatives towards hyaluronidase enzyme were examined. The synthesized derivative 4‐((4‐allyl‐2‐methoxyphenoxy)methyl)‐1‐benzyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazole showed an enhanced hyaluronidase inhibitory effect, 1.5 times, higher than its parent compound eugenol.
An Fe2O3/Mn2O3 Nanocomposite Derived from a Metal‐Organic Framework as an Anode Material for Lithium‐ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Zhiqiang , Zhu Jiping , Tang Weihao , Ding Yuan
Published: November 2022

A facile and efficient coprecipitation was used to synthesize metal‐organic framework (MOF), which was used as the precursor to prepare Fe2O3/Mn2O3 nanocomposite as anode material for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Fe2O3/Mn2O3 nanocomposite (synthesized by terephthalic acid) proved to show superior electrochemical performance compared to the single component, with a capacity of 1016 mA h g−1 after 240 cycles at 0.5 A g−1, capacity retention reached 114 %. This can be attributed to the uniform nanostructure brought by the MOF precursor and the stepwise volume change process of the two metal oxides, which leads to a higher electrical conductivity with a more stable structure. Meanwhile, this novel method for the synthesis of heterogeneous structural materials could open the way for the preparation of other high‐performance hybrid materials in LIBs.
Biomimetic Nanoplatelets to Target Delivery Hirudin for Site‐Specific Photothermal/Photodynamic Thrombolysis and Preventing Venous Thrombus Formation
Authors: Li Shuting , Zhang Kai , Ma Zhaoyu , Zhang Weiyun , Song Zhiyong , Wang Wenjing , Han Heyou
Published: November 2022

Due to the high recurrence rate and mortality of venous thrombosis, there is an urgent need for research on antithrombotic strategies. Because of the short half‐life, poor targeting capabilities, bleeding complications, and neurotoxic effects of conventional pharmacological thrombolysis methods, it is essential to develop an alternative strategy to noninvasive thrombolysis and decrease the recurrence rate of venous thrombosis. A platelet‐mimetic porphyrin‐based covalent organic framework‐engineered melanin nanoplatform, to target delivery of hirudin to the vein thrombus site for noninvasive thrombolysis and effective anticoagulation, is first proposed. Owing to the thrombus‐hosting properties of platelet membranes, the nanoplatform can target the thrombus site and then activate hyperthermia and reactive oxygen species for thrombolysis under near‐infrared light irradiation. The photothermal therapy/photodynamic therapy combo can substantially improve the effectiveness (85.7%) of thrombolysis and prevent secondary embolism of larger fragments. Afterward, the highly loaded (97%) and slow‐release hirudin (14 days) are effective in preventing the recurrence of blood clots without the danger of thrombocytopenia. The described biomimetic nanostructures offer a promising option for improving the efficacy of thrombolytic therapy and reducing the risk of bleeding complications in thrombus associated diseases.
Interlayer Charge Transfer Over Graphitized Carbon Nitride Enabling Highly‐Efficient Photocatalytic Nitrogen Fixation
Authors: Chen Yueling , Yu Mingfei , Huang Guocheng , Chen Qiaoshan , Bi Jinhong
Published: November 2022

Exploiting cost‐effective, high‐efficiency, and contamination‐free semiconductors for photocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (N2RR) is still a great challenge, especially in sacrificial‐free system. On basis of the electron “acceptance–donation” concept, a boron‐doped and carbon‐deficient g‐C3N4 (BxCvN) is herein developed through precise dopant and defect engineering. The optimized B15CvN exhibisted an NH3 production rate of 135.3 µmol h−1 g−1 in pure water with nine‐fold enhancement to the pristine graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4), on account of the markedly elevated visible‐light harvesting, N2 activation, and multi‐directional photoinduced carriers transfer. The decorated B atoms with coexistent occupied and empty sp3 hybridized orbitals are theoretically proved to be in charge of the increase of N2 adsorption energy from –0.08 to –0.26 eV and the change in N2 adsorption model from one‐way to two‐way end‐on pattern. Noticeably, the elaborate coordination of doped B atoms and carbon vacancies greatly facilitated the interlayer interaction and vertical charge migration of BxCvN, which is distinctly revealed through the charge density difference calculations. The current study provides an alternative groundbreaking perspective for advancing photocatalytic N2RR through the targeted configuration of the defect and dopant sites.
Environmental impact evaluation of a proposed steel and cement complex in the waste management scenario
Authors: Panda Chittaranjan , Pujary Anubha , Pradhan Nibedita , Jena Trilochan , Mallick Subrat Kumar
Published: November 2022

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is an important tool that identifies impact parameters, qualitatively and quantitatively predicts and evaluates the anticipated adverse and beneficial impacts. It then suggests mitigation measures and if possible alternative action. Therefore, EIA becomes mandatory for almost every planning and development processes. This paper makes analysis of the large‐scale polluting industrial processes of steel, power, and cement. It uses EIA study and consequent Environmental Management Plan (EMP) that includes elaborate mitigation measures and peripheral development. Ideally, the complete waste utilization with optimum use of resources and energy can be implemented by the industry and the same is very often mandated by regulatory authorities. The quantitative evaluation of impact by using modified Leopold matrix is separately carried out to compute total impact score (TIS) in each case. Obviously the TIS value in case of EMP with incorporation of social issues and waste utilization comes out to be a net positive value of 2218.3 offsetting the case without these issues, with a resultant high negative value of 5983.5. Sustainability aspect of the project is considered with economic, environmental and social aspects along with waste management aspects, in order to justify the viability of the project.
Survey on the prevalence of intestinal parasites in domestic cats (Felis catus Linnaeus, 1758) in central Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Roshan Babu , Dhakal Madhuri Adhikari , Ale Purna Bahadur , Regmi Ganga Ram , Ghimire Tirth Raj
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Cats (Felis catus) are the only felines that live in close contact with humans. Since cats can act as vectors, carriers, reservoirs and definitive hosts of many gastrointestinal (GI) parasites, parasitic assessment could contribute to their survival and well‐being.

Aims

The current study aimed to assess the diversity and prevalence of GI parasites in domestic and feral cats from Ratnanagar in Chitwan in Central Nepal.

Methods

A total of 107 fresh faecal samples of cats (90 household cats and 17 feral cats) of varied ages and sex were collected and transported to the laboratory. The copromicroscopic examination was carried out following direct wet mount, formalin‐ethyl acetate sedimentation, saturated salt flotation, acid‐fast staining and sporulation techniques. Furthermore, associated risk factors were evaluated to ascertain the predictor of risks for parasitic acquisition.

Results

The current study revealed an overall 95.3% prevalence rate with a 100% rate in feral cats and 94.4% in household cats. Altogether, 18 (17 known and one unknown) different species of GI parasites were reported with the helminths (95.3%; 11 species) and the protozoa (55.1%; seven species). Besides age and sex, outdoor lifestyle, absence or unknown history of medication and hunting behaviour of the felines are the predictors of risk. Furthermore, mixed infection was comparatively higher than single infection in the faecal samples.

Conclusions

Cats harbour a higher prevalence and greater diversity of GI parasites, and parasitism varies with age and sex. This finding can be essential for veterinarians and public health authorities for strategic treatment and for assessing the zoonotic transmission of the parasites from these felines. Importantly, an effective medication strategy for cats and owners is recommended.
Nonclassical continuum theories for fluent media incorporating rotation rates and their thermodynamic consistency
Authors: Surana Karan S. , Carranza Celso H.
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we present three micropolar nonclassical continuum theories (NCCT) for fluent medium in which a material point always has velocities as degrees of freedom, additionally, we consider (i) in the first NCCT, we consider classical or internal rotations rates (known) due to skew‐symmetric part of velocity gradient tensor; (ii) in the second NCCT, we consider rotation rates and Cosserat or microrotation rates (unknown degrees of freedom); (iii) in the third NCCT, we consider Cosserat or microrotation rates only, hence are neglected. Conservation and balance laws (CBL) and the constitutive theories are derived for all three NCCT. We examine consistent choice of kinematic variables, modification of the CBL of classical continuum theories (CCT) due to new physics and determine if the new physics of rotation rates requires additional balance law. All three NCCT derived here are examined for thermodynamic and/or mathematical consistency and are compared with published works. Model problem studies are also presented.
Long-term LHC discovery reach for compressed Supersymmetry models using VBF processes
Authors: Cardona Nathalia , Flórez Andrés , Gurrola Alfredo , Johns Will , Sheldon Paul , Tao Cheng
Published: November 2022

Abstract

The identity of Dark Matter (DM) is one of the most active topics in particle physics today. Supersymmetry (SUSY) is an extension of the standard model (SM) that could describe the particle nature of DM in the form of the lightest neutralino in R-parity conserving models. We focus on SUSY models that solve the hierarchy problem with small fine tuning, and where the lightest SUSY particles $$ \left({\tilde{\upchi}}_1^0,{\tilde{\upchi}}_1^{\pm },{\tilde{\upchi}}_2^0\right) $$

χ
˜

1
0

χ
˜

1
±

χ
˜

2
0

are a triplet of higgsino-like states, such that the mass difference $$ \Delta m\left({\tilde{\upchi}}_2^0,{\tilde{\upchi}}_1^0\right) $$
Δ
m

χ
˜

2
0

χ
˜

1
0

is 0.5–50 GeV. We perform a feasibility study to assess the long-term discovery potential for these compressed SUSY models with higgsino-like states, using vector boson fusion (VBF) processes in the context of proton-proton collisions at $$ \sqrt{s} $$

s

= 13 TeV, at the CERN Large Hadron Collider. Assuming an integrated luminosity of 3000 fb−1, we find that stringent VBF requirements, combined with large missing momentum and one or two low-pT leptons, is effective at reducing the major SM backgrounds, leading to a 5σ (3σ) discovery reach for $$ m\left({\tilde{\upchi}}_2^0\right) $$
m

χ
˜

2
0

< 180 (260) GeV, and a projected 95% confidence level exclusion region that covers $$ m\left({\tilde{\upchi}}_2^0\right) $$
m

χ
˜

2
0

up to 385 GeV, parameter space that is currently unconstrained by other experiments.
Bond-weighting method for the Grassmann tensor renormalization group
Authors: Akiyama Shinichiro
Published: November 2022

Abstract

Recently, the tensor network description with bond weights on its edges has been proposed as a novel improvement for the tensor renormalization group algorithm. The bond weight is controlled by a single hyperparameter, whose optimal value is estimated in the original work via the numerical computation of the two-dimensional critical Ising model. We develop this bond-weighted tensor renormalization group algorithm to make it applicable to the fermionic system, benchmarking with the two-dimensional massless Wilson fermion. We show that the accuracy with the fixed bond dimension is improved also in the fermionic system and provide numerical evidence that the optimal choice of the hyperparameter is not affected by whether the system is bosonic or fermionic. In addition, by monitoring the singular value spectrum, we find that the scale-invariant structure of the renormalized Grassmann tensor is successfully kept by the bond-weighting technique.
Collider events on a quantum computer
Authors: Gustafson Gösta , Prestel Stefan , Spannowsky Michael , Williams Simon
Published: November 2022

Abstract

High-quality simulated data is crucial for particle physics discoveries. Therefore, parton shower algorithms are a major building block of the data synthesis in event generator programs. However, the core algorithms used to generate parton showers have barely changed since the 1980s. With quantum computers’ rapid and continuous development, dedicated algorithms are required to exploit the potential that quantum computers provide to address problems in high-energy physics. This paper presents a novel approach to synthesising parton showers using the Discrete QCD method. The algorithm benefits from an elegant quantum walk implementation which can be embedded into the classical toolchain. We use the ibm_algiers device to sample parton shower configurations and generate data that we compare against measurements taken at the ALEPH, DELPHI and OPAL experiments. This is the first time a Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) device has been used to simulate realistic high-energy particle collision events.
Anmerkungen zum Terminus „Drainage“
Authors: Böttcher Arne , Meier-Vieracker Simon
Published: November 2022

Hintergrund

Der Gebrauch des Terminus „Drainage“ ist im klinischen Alltag und in der existierenden Fachliteratur inkonsistent.

Ziel der Arbeit

Ziel waren die Klärung der Bedeutung des Terminus und die Sensibilisierung zum fachgerechten Gebrauch.

Material und Methoden

Dazu erfolgte eine selektive Literaturrecherche.

Ergebnisse

Eine Drainage, entlehnt aus dem Englischen, ist der Vorgang des Flüssigkeitsentziehens, wird jedoch häufig mit dem oftmals zeitgleich eingelegten Drainrohr synonym verwendet, was sprachwissenschaftlich als Metonymie bezeichnet wird. Ein Paukenröhrchen dient der Mittelohrbelüftung und dem Druckausgleich. Lymph- und Abszessdrainagen sind keine Gegenstände.

Schlussfolgerung

Die normierte Fachterminologie dient dazu, Unschärfen und konsekutiv Missverständnisse im wissenschaftlichen Kontext zu verhindern. Dies ist besonders in der Medizin von großer Bedeutung, jedoch im alltäglichen Sprachgebrauch einer gewissen Variabilität unterzogen.
First bioelectronic immunoplatform for quantitative secretomic analysis of total and metastasis-driven glycosylated haptoglobin
Authors: Muñoz-San Martín Cristina , Montero-Calle Ana , Garranzo-Asensio María , Gamella Maria , Pérez-Ginés Víctor , Pedrero María , Pingarrón José M. , Barderas Rodrigo , de-los-Santos-Álvarez Noemí , Lobo-Castañón María Jesús , Campuzano Susana
Published: November 2022

The glycosylation status of proteins is increasingly used as biomarker to improve the reliability in the diagnosis and prognosis of diseases as relevant as cancer. This feeds the need for tools that allow its simple and reliable analysis and are compatible with applicability in the clinic. With this objective in mind, this work reports the first bioelectronic immunoplatforms described to date for the determination of glycosylated haptoglobin (Hp) and the simultaneous determination of total and glycosylated Hp. The bioelectronic immunoplatform is based on the implementation of non-competitive bioassays using two different antibodies or an antibody and a lectin on the surface of commercial magnetic microcarriers. The resulting bioconjugates are labeled with the horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme, and after their magnetic capture on disposable electroplatforms, the amperometric transduction using the H2O2/hydroquinone (HQ) system allows the single or multiple detection. The developed immunoplatform achieves limits of detection (LODs) of 0.07 and 0.46 ng mL−1 for total and glycosylated Hp in buffer solution, respectively. The immunoplatform allows accurate determination using simple and relatively short protocols (approx. 75 min) of total and glycosylated Hp in the secretomes of in vitro–cultured colorectal cancer (CRC) cells with different metastatic potentials, which is not feasible, due to lack of sensitivity, by means of some commercial ELISA kits and Western blot methodology.

Graphical abstract
Automated detection of neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in minutes using a competitive chemiluminescence immunoassay
Authors: Klüpfel Julia , Paßreiter Sandra , Rumpf Melina , Christa Catharina , Holthoff Hans-Peter , Ungerer Martin , Lohse Martin , Knolle Percy , Protzer Ulrike , Elsner Martin , Seidel Michael
Published: November 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has shown the importance of rapid and comprehensive diagnostic tools. While there are numerous rapid antigen tests available, rapid serological assays for the detection of neutralizing antibodies are and will be needed to determine not only the amount of antibodies formed after infection or vaccination but also their neutralizing potential, preventing the cell entry of SARS-CoV-2. Current active-virus neutralization assays require biosafety level 3 facilities, while virus-free surrogate assays are more versatile in applications, but still take typically several hours until results are available. To overcome these disadvantages, we developed a competitive chemiluminescence immunoassay that enables the detection of neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 antibodies within 7 min. The neutralizing antibodies bind to the viral receptor binding domain (RBD) and inhibit the binding to the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. This competitive binding inhibition test was characterized with a set of 80 samples, which could all be classified correctly. The assay results favorably compare to those obtained with a more time-intensive ELISA-based neutralization test and a commercial surrogate neutralization assay. Our test could further be used to detect individuals with a high total IgG antibody titer, but only a low neutralizing titer, as well as for monitoring neutralizing antibodies after vaccinations. This effective performance in SARS-CoV-2 seromonitoring delineates the potential for the test to be adapted to other diseases in the future.

Graphical Abstract
Chitosan–caffeine formulation as an ecological preservative in wood protection
Authors: Woźniak Magdalena , Gromadzka Karolina , Kwaśniewska-Sip Patrycja , Cofta Grzegorz , Ratajczak Izabela
Published: November 2022

Nowadays, taking into account environmental degradation, climate changes, as well as, environmentally friendly regulations and increasing ecological awareness of consumers, methods of wood protection without negative impact on the environment are being intensively developed. In this study, a mixture of chitosan and caffeine was proposed as ecological wood preservative. The aim of the research was to evaluate the application of chitosan (medium and high molecular weight) as an agent limiting the leaching of caffeine from the structure of treated wood. The resistance of pine wood treated with chitosan–caffeine preparations and ingredients of these preparations (caffeine and chitosan) to brown rot fungus—Coniophora puteana was assessed. The degree of caffeine leaching from the treated wood was determined by chromatographic analysis (caffeine concentration) and elemental analysis (nitrogen concentration). The results showed that chitosan limited caffeine leaching from wood, which was confirmed by chromatographic analysis and changes in the wood structure observed in FTIR spectra. Moreover, wood treated with chitosan–caffeine preparations showed resistance against C. puteana (mass loss about 0.5%); however, antifungal activity was reduced when treated wood was subjected to leaching with water (mass loss about 10%). The obtained results suggest that the chitosan–caffeine preparations can be promising ecological preservatives for the wood treatment.
Whole exome sequencing of FFPE samples—expanding the horizon of forensic molecular autopsies
Authors: Adolfsson Emma , Kling Daniel , Gunnarsson Cecilia , Jonasson Jon , Gréen Henrik , Gréen Anna
Published: November 2022

Forensic molecular autopsies have emerged as a tool for medical examiners to establish the cause of death. It is particularly useful in sudden unexplained deaths where the cause of death cannot be determined with a regular medical autopsy. We provide the first study of exome data from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples (FFPE) paired with data from high-quality blood samples in forensic applications. The approach allows exploration of the potential to use FFPE samples for molecular autopsies and identify variants in extensive exome data. We leverage the high uniformity of the hybridization capture approach provided by Twist Bioscience to target the complete exome and sequence the libraries on a NextSeq 550. Our findings suggest that exome sequencing is feasible for 24 out of a total of 35 included FFPE samples. When successful, the coverage across the exome is comparatively high (> 90% covered to 20X) and uniform (fold80 below 1.5). Detailed variant comparisons for matched FFPE and blood samples show high concordance with few false variants (positive predictive value of 0.98 and a sensitivity of 0.97) with no distinct FFPE artefacts. Ultimately, we apply carefully constructed forensic gene panels in a stepwise manner to find genetic variants associated with the clinical phenotype and with relevance to the sudden unexplained death.
On the aggregation of input data for energy system models
Authors: Cardona-Vasquez David , DiTondo Davide , Wogrin Sonja
Published: November 2022

The increasing share of variable renewable energy sources in power systems poses new challenges to policy makers and network planners alike because of the sources’ variability and insufficient energy storage capability. This requires the development of new optimization models that consider the inter-temporal connection between different periods aggregating them on a more general level (e.g., days or weeks). However, aggregation models are often empirical and based on common clustering algorithms. In this paper, we carry out a numerical exploration of the relationship between the structure of the system and the hyperparameters required for these aggregation procedures. Our findings indicate that there is valuable information from the power system that can be used to improve the aggregation. This is important because, in most cases, the accuracy of the aggregation cannot be measured exactly.
Wieviele reelle Zahlen gibt es?
Authors: Asperó David , Schindler Ralf
Published: November 2022

Die Arbeit [2] der gegenwärtigen Autoren amalgamierte zwei prominente Axiome der gegenwärtigen Mengenlehre, von denen vorher bekannt gewesen war, daß sie beide entscheiden, daß das Kontinuum die Größe $\aleph_2$ hat, nämlich Martins Maximum und Woodins $P_max$-Prinzip (*). Wir diskutieren dieses Resultat und seine Bedeutung für das Kontinuumsproblem.
Mutter und Psychotherapie
Authors: Grubner Angelika
Published: November 2022

Das Erstarken der Psychotherapie und der weitgehende Verlust der Mutter aus der feministischen Theorie und deren Gleichzeitigkeit mit dem Übergang vom Wohlfahrtsstaat zum neoliberalen Staat legen den Verdacht nahe, dass sie etwas miteinander zu tun haben. Insofern versucht dieser philosophische Beitrag erste Überlegungen anzustellen, wie dieser Zusammenhang aus einer feministischen Perspektive verstanden werden könnte.
The effect of cognitive workload on decision authority assignment in human–robot collaboration
Authors: Karakikes Michail , Nathanael Dimitris
Published: November 2022

Human–robot collaboration in dynamic industrial environments warrants robot flexibility and shifting between tasks. Adaptive robot behavior unavoidably carries decision-making needs regarding task allocation and scheduling. Such decisions can be made either by the human team members or autonomously, by the robot’s controlling algorithm. Human authority may help preserve situational awareness but increases mental demands due to increased responsibilities. Conversely, granting authority to the robot can offload the operator, at the cost of reduced intervention readiness. This paper aims to investigate the question of decision authority assignment in a human–robot team, in terms of performance, perceived workload and subjective preference. We hypothesized that the answer is influenced by the cognitive workload imposed on the human operator by the work process. An experiment with 21 participants was conducted, in which decision authority and induced workload through a secondary task were varied between trials. Results confirmed that operators can support the robot better when decision authority is allocated according to their workload. However, operator decision authority (a) may cause inferior performance at any secondary tasks performed in parallel with robot supervision and (b) increases perceived workload. Subjective preference was found to be evenly divided between the two levels of decision authority, and unaffected by task difficulty. In brief, if human–robot team performance is a priority, humans should be granted decision authority when their overall workload allows it. In high-workload conditions, system decision-making algorithms should be developed. Nonetheless, process designers should be mindful of the interpersonal differences between operators who are destined to collaborate with robots.
Stone handling in geladas (Theropithecus gelada): implications for spontaneous drawing-like activity as a playful behavior
Authors: Pallante Virginia , Johann Achim , Huffman Michael A. , Palagi Elisabetta
Published: November 2022

Stone handling (SH) is a form of solitary object play widely documented in four species of macaques and most recently also in geladas (Theropithecus gelada). Here, we describe the SH activity of two mother-reared captive gelada males, who combined different behavioral patterns in a sequence that occasionally led to the production of colored marks on a hard surface. Two playful techniques of different complexity emerged spontaneously in the two subjects. In the etching and releasing technique, the stone or pieces of it were repeatedly scraped across either a vertical or horizontal hard surface. In the grindandfinger technique, additional patterns were recruited such as scratching the stone to produce small debris that the subjects manipulated through a thumb–index finger precision grip. Animals selected preferentially hard surfaces when their SH sessions involved patterns that potentially released color and engaged in such patterns for longer and in a repeated way. This evidence suggests the high motivation of the two males to engage in drawing-like behavior that, as it occurs for other forms of play, can be characterized by its autotelic self-rewarding nature. Digital video images related to the article are available at http://www.momo-p.com/showdetail-e.php?movieid=momo220922tg01a   and http://www.momo-p.com/showdetail-e.php?movieid=momo220923tg01a
The mitigating effect of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) on the hemotoxicity of gibberellic acid on juvenile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Sayed Alaa El-Din H. , Hamed Mohamed , El-Sayed Abdelaziz A. A. , Nunes Bruno , Soliman Hamdy A. M.
Published: November 2022

The use of plant growth regulators has led to environmental contamination of water bodies that occur adjacent to agricultural areas. Some of these chemicals are bioactive, not only to plants, but also to non-target exposed biota, namely of the aquatic compartment. Previous work demonstrated the establishment of hepato- and nephrotoxic effects in juvenile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) exposed via aquatic media to gibberellic acid (GA3), which is among the most used plant growth regulators, in agricultural practices. Here, we investigated the effect of GA3 on hematological indices, poikilocytosis, nuclear abnormalities, and genotoxic indices measured in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), as well as the putative protective effects of dietary supplementation of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis). Fish were evenly assorted into 5 groups: group I served as a control, and groups II–V were fed diets supplemented with Spirulina at rates of 0 g/kg, 5 g/kg, 20 g/kg, and 100 g/kg, respectively, for 2 months before being exposed to 150 mg/L GA3. The results revealed that GA3 exposure decreased significantly all hematological indices (P < 0.05), except leucocytes and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), compared to the control group (P > 0.05). GA3 exposure increased significantly the percentage of nuclear abnormalities, altered erythrocytes and the percentages of tail DNA, compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Spirulina supplementation restored the hematological, poikilocytosis, nuclear abnormalities, and the percentages of tail DNA to near normal levels. The 100 g/kg SP treatment was the most effective in attaining such effect, showing concentration-dependency. The present study reinforces our findings of the toxicity of GA3 on O. niloticus and suggests that the addition of Spirulina to fish diet can mitigate the hemotoxic effects of GA3.
Learning from biological attachment devices: applications of bioinspired reversible adhesive methods in robotics
Authors: Xu Kun , Zi Peijin , Ding Xilun
Published: November 2022

Many organisms have attachment organs with excellent functions, such as adhesion, clinging, and grasping, as a result of biological evolution to adapt to complex living environments. From nanoscale to macroscale, each type of adhesive organ has its own underlying mechanisms. Many biological adhesive mechanisms have been studied and can be incorporated into robot designs. This paper presents a systematic review of reversible biological adhesive methods and the bioinspired attachment devices that can be used in robotics. The study discussed how biological adhesive methods, such as dry adhesion, wet adhesion, mechanical adhesion, and sub-ambient pressure adhesion, progress in research. The morphology of typical adhesive organs, as well as the corresponding attachment models, is highlighted. The current state of bioinspired attachment device design and fabrication is discussed. Then, the design principles of attachment devices are summarized in this article. The following section provides a systematic overview of climbing robots with bioinspired attachment devices. Finally, the current challenges and opportunities in bioinspired attachment research in robotics are discussed.
Datenschutzgerechte Wege zur Nutzung von Real World Data
Authors: Drepper Johannes
Published: November 2022

Hintergrund

Die Nachnutzung vorhandener realweltlicher Daten wird als vielversprechende, die Durchführung klassischer Studien ergänzende Methode der medizinischen Forschung angesehen. Real World Data werden in sehr unterschiedlichen Situationen erhoben und unterliegen damit auch datenschutzrechtlich heterogenen Rahmenbedingungen.

Ziel der Arbeit

Ziel der Arbeit ist die Unterstützung der datenschutzgerechten Nutzung von Real World Data.

Material und Methoden

Neben dem allgemeinen Datenschutzrecht auf europäischer, nationaler und bundeslandspezifischer Ebene werden auch für Gesundheitsdaten spezifische Rechtsgebiete wie die ärztliche Schweigepflicht oder das Sozialrecht beleuchtet. Schutzmethoden wie die Pseudonymisierung und Anonymisierung werden untersucht und eingeordnet.

Ergebnisse

Die Verarbeitung von Real World Data führt im Regelfall zur Anwendung des Datenschutzrechts. Die Klärung der datenschutzrechtlichen Verantwortlichkeit kann bei komplexen Verbundvorhaben anspruchsvoll sein. Die Art der möglichen Rechtsgrundlage für die Verarbeitung hängt von spezifischen Rahmenbedingungen sowie der Art der Verarbeitung ab. Zudem sind die Daten während der Verarbeitung durch technische und organisatorische Maßnahmen zu schützen.

Schlussfolgerung

Die datenschutzrechtlichen Rahmenbedingungen für die Verarbeitung von Real World Data sind komplex. Eine Vereinfachung und Harmonisierung wurde mit der europäischen Datenschutz-Grundverordnung nicht einmal innerhalb Deutschlands erreicht. Bestimmte Wege zur Nutzung dieser Daten, z. B. auf Basis eines „broad consent“ oder mit Hilfe einer abgestimmten Bewertung gemäß einer Forschungsklausel, sind mit viel Aufwand verbunden und stehen damit im Regelfall nur größeren Projekten oder Infrastrukturen zur Verfügung.