bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A theoretical study of solvent effect on the excited state intramolecular proton transfer of 3‐hydroxyflavone
Authors: Lv Guangshen , Li Chaozheng
Published: December 2022

In order to study the effect of solvents polarity on the excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) processes of 3‐hydroxyflavone (3HF) in detail, the ESIPT processes of 3HF in toluene, dichloromethane (DCM), and acetonitrile (ACN) were investigated using theoretical methods. The stable configurations of 3HF in ground (S0) and excited (S1) states were optimized. The critical configuration parameters, infrared (IR) vibrational spectra, absorption and fluorescence spectra, frontier molecular orbitals (MOs), charge distribution, and potential energy curves were calculated. The intramolecular hydrogen bonds are obviously enhanced and the electronic density redistributes when excited to S1 state. The strengthening of intramolecular hydrogen bonds and the redistribution of electronic density are beneficial to the ESIPT processes. The analysis of potential energy curves show that the proton transfer processes are feasible in thermodynamics in S1 state, but not in S0 state. In addition, the intramolecular hydrogen bonds gradually weaken when the solvents polarity increases from toluene, DCM to ACN. As the solvents polarity increases, the ESIPT processes are more and more difficult to occur. It can be concluded that the strength of intramolecular hydrogen bonds will be affected by the solvents polarity, and the strength of intramolecular hydrogen bonds are directly related to the difficulty of the ESIPT processes.
Experimental and computational analysis of the ancestry of an evolutionary young enzyme from histidine biosynthesis
Authors: Kinateder Thomas , Drexler Lukas , Straub Kristina , Merkl Rainer , Sterner Reinhard
Published: December 2022

The conservation of fold and chemistry of the enzymes associated with histidine biosynthesis suggests that this pathway evolved prior to the diversification of Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukaryotes. The only exception is the histidinol phosphate phosphatase (HolPase). So far, non‐homologous HolPases that possess distinct folds and belong to three different protein superfamilies have been identified in various phylogenetic clades. However, their evolution has remained unknown to date. Here, we analyzed the evolutionary history of the HolPase from γ‐Proteobacteria (HisB‐N). It has been argued that HisB‐N and its closest homologue d‐glycero‐d‐manno‐heptose‐1,7‐bisphosphate 7‐phosphatase (GmhB) have emerged from the same promiscuous ancestral phosphatase. GmhB variants catalyze the hydrolysis of the anomeric d‐glycero‐d‐manno‐heptose‐1,7‐bisphosphate (αHBP or βHBP) with a strong preference for one anomer (αGmhB or βGmhB). We found that HisB‐N from Escherichia coli shows promiscuous activity for βHBP but not αHBP, while βGmhB from Crassaminicella sp. shows promiscuous activity for HolP. Accordingly, a combined phylogenetic tree of αGmhBs, βGmhBs, and HisB‐N sequences revealed that HisB‐Ns form a compact subcluster derived from βGmhBs. Ancestral sequence reconstruction and in vitro analysis revealed a promiscuous HolPase activity in the resurrected enzymes prior to functional divergence of the successors. The following increase in catalytic efficiency of the HolP turnover is reflected in the shape and electrostatics of the active site predicted by AlphaFold. An analysis of the phylogenetic tree led to a revised evolutionary model that proposes the horizontal gene transfer of a promiscuous βGmhB from δ‐ to γ‐Proteobacteria where it evolved to the modern HisB‐N.
X‐ray structure and mechanism of ZgHAD, a l‐2‐haloacid dehalogenase from the marine Flavobacterium Zobellia galactanivorans
Authors: Grigorian Eugénie , Roret Thomas , Czjzek Mirjam , Leblanc Catherine , Delage Ludovic
Published: December 2022

Haloacid dehalogenases are potentially involved in bioremediation of contaminated environments and few have been biochemically characterized from marine organisms. The l‐2‐haloacid dehalogenase (l‐2‐HAD) from the marine Bacteroidetes Zobellia galactanivorans DsijT (ZgHAD) has been shown to catalyze the dehalogenation of C2 and C3 short‐chain l‐2‐haloalkanoic acids. To better understand its catalytic properties, its enzymatic stability, active site, and 3D structure were analyzed. ZgHAD demonstrates high stability to solvents and a conserved catalytic activity when heated up to 60°C, its melting temperature being at 65°C. The X‐ray structure of the recombinant enzyme was solved by molecular replacement. The enzyme folds as a homodimer and its active site is very similar to DehRhb, the other known l‐2‐HAD from a marine Rhodobacteraceae. Marked differences are present in the putative substrate entrance sites of the two enzymes. The H179 amino acid potentially involved in the activation of a catalytic water molecule was confirmed as catalytic amino acid through the production of two inactive site‐directed mutants. The crystal packing of 13 dimers in the asymmetric unit of an active‐site mutant, ZgHAD‐H179N, reveals domain movements of the monomeric subunits relative to each other. The involvement of a catalytic His/Glu dyad and substrate binding amino acids was further confirmed by computational docking. All together our results give new insights into the catalytic mechanism of the group of marine l‐2‐HAD.
Importance of adjuvant formulation properties in predicting wetting on leaf surfaces
Authors: Nairn Justin J , Forster W Alison
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Leaf wettability can be a barrier to retention of agrichemical sprays. Adjuvants are used to modify leaf wetting by sprays to enhance retention. A previous study developed a model that accurately predicted nonadjuvant formulation wetting (contact angle) on both synthetic and leaf surfaces. Model inputs were the surface properties, roughness and polarity, as measured by the wetting tension dielectric method, coupled with the formulation properties, surface tension and dielectric constant. Preliminary work has indicated that the wetting ability of adjuvant formulations on different surfaces could be modelled in a similar way if the effect of adjuvants on solution polarity could be accurately quantified.

RESULTS

The wetting of nine agrichemical adjuvants, at a range of concentrations, were measured on seven synthetic and 14 leaf surfaces. A novel method was developed to quantify the interfacial dielectric polarity (IDP) of adjuvant formulations. Adjuvant concentration did not change the IDP indicating the surface‐active surfactant molecules migrate to the interface, loading until saturation. Formulation properties of surface tension and IDP were found to be strong predictors of wetting in conjunction with surface properties of the substrate. The previously developed unaltered comprehensive wetting model could predict the wetting of adjuvant formulations on synthetic and leaf surfaces (R2 = 0.9) using these inputs.

CONCLUSIONS

Wetting of adjuvant formulations can be modelled for a wide range of surfaces and this model is expected to advance the selection, and development, of adjuvants to target specific surfaces generating the desired wetting outcome. © 2022 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Performance of Chouioia cunea reared from a coleopteran alternative host as a biocontrol agent against the invasive lepidopteran pest, Hyphantria cunea
Authors: Li Tian‐Hao , Wang Xingeng , Desneux Nicolas , Song Li‐Wei , Zang Lian‐Sheng
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Chouioia cunea is a generalist pupal endoparasitoid. Native to Eurasia, the parasitoid has been mass‐reared on an alternative lepidopteran host (Antheraea pernyi) to successfully control the exotic invasive lepidopteran pest Hyphantria cunea in China. To solicit more accessible hosts, this study evaluated the potential of an easily cultured coleopteran beetle (Tenebrio molitor) as a substitute for rearing C. cunea through comparing the relative performance of the parasitoids reared from both alternative hosts on H. cunea.

RESULTS

Compared with those reared from A. pernyi, the parasitoids reared from T. molitor (i.e., T. molitor vs. A. pernyi groups) performed equally well in terms of parasitism rate (94.4 vs. 88.9%), number of offspring produced per parasitized host (278 vs. 286), and female body length (1.334 vs. 1.351 mm), hind‐tibia length (0.322 vs. 0.324 mm) and number of mature oocytes in the ovarioles (171 vs. 187), or even better based on offspring pre‐emergence time (16.0 vs 16.9 days) and percentages of emerged offspring (99.8 vs. 99.1%) and female offspring (97.1 vs. 91.3%). Flight performance testing indicated that young C. cunea adults emerged from T. molitor had a similar percentage of actively flying wasps (76.9 vs. 72.9%) and a lower percentage of inactive wasps (2.3 vs. 10.6%) when compared to those reared from A. pernyi.

CONCLUSION

Given the remarkable adaptability of C. cunea and the vast availability of T. molitor as a common resource insect worldwide, this indigenous parasitoid could be mass‐reared on T. molitor to improve the prospect of biological control of H. cunea in its invaded regions. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Chromosome‐level genome assembly of Dastarcus helophoroides provides insights into CYP450 genes expression upon insecticide exposure
Authors: Zhang Zhengqing , Pei Pei , Zhang Meng , Li Feifei , Tang Guanghui
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Dastarcus helophoroides is an important natural enemy of cerambycids, and is wildly used in biological control of pests. Nevertheless, the absence of complete genomic information limits the investigation of the underlying molecular mechanisms. Here, a chromosome‐level of Dastarcus helophoroides genome is assembled using a combination strategy of Illumina, PacBio, 10x™ Genomics, and Hi‐C.

RESULTS

The final assembly is 609.09 Mb with contig N50, scaffold N50 and GC content of 5.46 Mb, 42.56 Mb and 31.50%, respectively, and 95.25% of the contigs anchor into 13 chromosomes. In total 14 890 protein‐coding genes and 65.37% repeat sequences are predicted in the assembly genome. The phylogenetic analysis of single‐copy gene families shared among 20 insect species indicates that Dastarcus helophoroides is placed as the sister species to clade (Nitidulidae+Curculionoidea+Chrysomeloidea) + Tenebrionoidea, and diverges from the related species ~242.9 Mya. In total 36 expanded gene families are identified in Dastarcus helophoroides genome, and are functionally related to drug metabolism and metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450. Some members of CYP4 Clade and CYP6 Clade are up‐regulated in Dastarcus helophoroides adults upon insecticide exposure, of which expressions of DhCYP4Q, DhCYP6A14X1 and DhCYP4C1 are significantly up‐regulated. The silencing of the three genes leads to adults more sensitive to insecticide and increased knocked‐down rate, which may indicate their critical roles in stress resistance and detoxication.

CONCLUSION

Our study systematically integrated the chromosome‐level genome, transcriptome and gene expression of Dastarcus helophoroides, which will provide valuable resources for understanding mechanisms of pesticide metabolism, growth and development, and utilization of the natural enemy in integrated control. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Evaluation of the pattern of spray released from a moving multicopter
Authors: Chyrva Illia , Jermy Mark , Strand Tara , Richardson Brian
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Multicopters are used for releasing particulates seeds, fertilizer and spray. Their low cost and high manoeuvrability make them attractive for spraying in steep terrain and areas where overspray is undesirable. This article describes a model of multicopter wake and its influence on particulate dispersion, which is computationally economical compared to many computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approaches, yet retains reasonable accuracy.

RESULTS

A model was successfully implemented in OpenFOAM. It features source terms for the rotor wash, Lagrangian particle tracking, an evaporation model, and a porous medium approach to model the effect of the ground vegetation. Predictions were validated against the field tests of Richardson et al. which used a DJI Agras MG‐1 multicopter in three different flights with airspeeds of 3.2–4.9 m s−1, ground speeds of 2.1–2.9 m s−1 and cross‐wind speeds of 0.04–2.2 m s−1. The effective swath width (30% line separation) was predicted to within one standard deviation. Sensitivity to a rotor rotational speed, flight height, flight velocity, multicopter roll and yaw angles, surface roughness length, plant height and leaf density was checked.

CONCLUSION

In all flight trials, the modelled swath was closest to the experimentally obtained swath when the surface roughness of the fetch was equal to 0.5 m (bushes) and the rotational speed of all rotors was equal to 2475 rpm with 0.75R (0.2 m) tall plant canopy (grass) introduced to the model. The model showed acceptable validity for flight velocities of ≤2.8–5 m s−1 when flight parameters can be approximately estimated. © 2022 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Analytical Model of InP QWs for Efficiency Improvement in GaInP/Si Dual Junction Solar Cell
Authors: Verma Manish , Mishra Guru Prasad
Published: December 2022

Quantum wells (QWs) are proven to enhance the short circuit current and voltage preservation measures help in efficiency enhancement with little degradation of open circuit voltage . Herein, an integrated GaInP/Si dual junction solar cell is proposed by incorporating the QWs in the top cell and carrier‐selective passivated contact at the bottom cell of the design. The QW increases the photon absorption of sub‐bandgap energies, buffer layer reduces the misfits between the lattice mismatched layers, and passivation mechanism improves the overall efficiency. Increasing the number of QWs increases the depletion width of QW region. This reduces the carrier lifetime () and increases the recombinations in the QW region. It results in the reduction in passivation quality and, therefore, reduces the open circuit voltage (). QW strain balancing and measures to reduce the threading dislocations has been considered. Also, the wide bandgap GaInP tunnel junction along with highly doped GaAs tunnel junction has been analyzed to observe the parasitic effect. The GaInP/Si‐integrated model achieves efficiency of 33.39% when the QWs are incorporated in the top cell. The effect of wide bandgap tunnel junction is also evaluated using GaInP tunnel junction.
Mediation analysis with multiple mediators under unmeasured mediator‐outcome confounding
Authors: Wickramarachchi Deshanee Senevirathne , Lim Laura Huey Mien , Sun Baoluo
Published: December 2022

It is often of interest in the health and social sciences to investigate the joint mediation effects of multiple post‐exposure mediating variables. Identification of such joint mediation effects generally require no unmeasured confounding of the outcome with respect to the whole set of mediators. As the number of mediators under consideration grows, this key assumption is likely to be violated as it is often infeasible to intervene on any of the mediators. In this article, we develop a simple two‐step method of moments estimation procedure to assess mediation with multiple mediators simultaneously in the presence of potential unmeasured mediator‐outcome confounding. Our identification result leverages heterogeneity of the population exposure effect on the mediators, which is plausible under a variety of empirical settings. The proposed estimators are illustrated through both simulations and an application to evaluate the mediating effects of post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms in the association between self‐efficacy and fatigue among health care workers during the COVID‐19 outbreak.
Effect of Laser Scribing on Coating, Drying, and Crystallization of Absorber Layer of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Huang Chaopeng , Guan Cheng-Kang , Lin Bo-Qian , Huang Shih-Han , Huang Bin-Juine , Su Wei-Fang , Xu Li
Published: December 2022

Large‐area perovskite solar modules fabrication has been demonstrated with a rapid process of large‐area slot‐die coating, drying, and crystallization using near‐infrared radiation in ambient air, in which the laser‐scribing process is applied to fabricate the modules. However, defective coating of perovskite layer near laser‐scribed P1 line which isolates the front electrode of transparent conductive oxide (TCO) results very low module efficiencies. Therefore, systematic study is conducted to investigate the root cause, mechanism and solution of the defective coating and crystallization of the perovskite layer. Scanning electron microscope, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy are used to characterize the TCO film before and after P1 scribing. It is found that P1 laser‐scribing process changes surface morphology of TCO at the area near P1 line, which decreases the surface wettability and results discontinuous coating of precursor solution near P1 lines. The absence of TCO material in the P1 trench induces nonuniform heating during NIR annealing step, which is verified by thermal analysis via numerical simulation. After tuning laser process recipes, a large module with an active area of 46 cm2 is fabricated with a power conversion efficiency of 7.2% and geometry fill factor of 93.8%.
Simultaneously Modifying Hole Transport Material and Perovskite via a Crown Ether‐Based Semiconductor Toward Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Kaixing , Lu Huiqiang , Yang Yang , Li Shufang , Jia Kangkang , Wu Fei , Zhu Linna
Published: December 2022

In conventional (n‐i‐p) perovskite solar cells (PSCs), spiro‐OMeTAD is the most widely used hole‐transporting material (HTM), which contributes to the current state‐of‐the‐art efficiency. Suffering from the low conductivity, dopants such as LiTFSI (lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide) and tBP are usually required to achieve excellent hole transport properties in spiro‐OMeTAD. Nevertheless, the hygroscopicity and the migration of Li+ during device operation severely affect the device's stability. To address the aforementioned issue, a 12‐crown‐4‐based organic semiconductor (CDT) is synthesized and applied in PSCs. Notably, CDT is simultaneously doped in spiro‐OMeTAD and perovskite layer through the antisolvent method. In this way, the strong “host‐guest” interaction between crown ether and Li+ effectively inhibits its migration both in the hole transporting layer (HTL) and at the perovskite/HTM interface. Furthermore, the carbazole diphenylamine group in CDT facilitates hole transport, and meanwhile improves the hydrophobicity of the HTL. In addition, CDT added into the perovskite layer is also able to passivate defects by interacting with the undercoordinated Pb2+. In light of the aforementioned advantages, the CDT‐based device shows a high power conversion efficiency approaching 23%, with excellent long‐term stability.
Dynamic response and safety assessment of inner‐wall corroded concrete pipeline in service subjected to blasting vibration
Authors: Cao Huazhang , Jiang Nan , Zhou Chuanbo , Li Haibo , Cai Zhongwei , Huang Yiwen
Published: December 2022

Buried pipelines in urban area are prone to corrosion defects for many years. Ensure the safety of buried corrosion pipelines is a key concern during tunnel blasting excavation. Based on the blasting engineering along Shenzhen Metro Line 12, the field test of full‐scale concrete pipeline adjacent blasting was implemented. The dynamic response of concrete pipeline induced by blasting vibration was analyzed by using the dynamic finite element numerical simulation method, and the reliability of numerical simulation was verified by the field monitoring data. On this basis, considering the corrosion defect morphology of pipeline, the distribution characteristics of peak particle velocity and peak effective stress of concrete pipeline with different corrosion depths, corrosion widths, and corrosion lengths induced by blasting vibration were discussed. The parameter analysis method was used to research the influence of corrosion morphology parameters on the dynamic response of the pipeline, and the corrosion depth of the inner‐wall of the pipeline was defined as the main control parameter of the dynamic response. According to the failure criteria of concrete materials, the safety criterion of corroded concrete pipelines with different service years subjected to blasting vibration was established.
Effect of Moringa leaf flavonoids on the production performance, immune system, and rumen fermentation of dairy cows
Authors: Liu Ji , Wang Yan , Liu Ling , Ma Guangming , Zhang Yonggen , Ren Jian
Published: December 2022

Background

Unreasonable use of antibiotics in animals is a major concern and will remain so, thus affecting people's health. However, the application of plant extracts can better solve this problem.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to study the effect of Moringa leaf flavonoids on the production performance, immunity, and rumen fermentation of dairy cows.

Methods

Nine Holstein multiparous cows (average weight: 550 kg; days of lactation: 150 ± 6 days) were used in the experiment, using a 3 × 3 Latin square design. Cows were divided into three groups, each of which was supplemented with 0, 50, or 100 mg/body weight (BW) Moringa oleifera leaf flavonoids. Each experimental period consisted of three periods of 21 days, and the prefeeding period lasted 15 days.

Results

Our results indicated that supplementation with Moringa leaf flavonoids increased the protein content and decreased the number of somatic cells in milk; had little effect on the biochemical indices of blood, the rumen fermentation, and serum biochemical indicators; and improved the activity of antioxidant enzymes, the antioxidant capacity, and immunity.

Conclusions

Addition of 50 mg/BW Moringa leaf flavonoids to cow enhanced the antioxidant and immunity capacity in dairy cows but did not affect physiological levels of common biochemical parameters in blood or fermentation parameters in rumen.
Theoretical and experimental research of edge inclination angle effect on minimum uncut chip thickness in oblique cutting of C45 steel
Authors: Mikołajczyk Tadeusz , Latos Hubert , Szczepaniak Zygmunt , Paczkowski Tomasz , Pimenov Danil Yu. , Giasin Khaled , Kuntoğlu Mustafa
Published: December 2022

The minimum uncut chip thickness (MUCT) is an important phenomenon observed both in orthogonal and oblique cutting. Rounding the cutting edge influences the initiation of the cutting process and chip formation. In a previous study, the authors presented a theoretical analysis and experimental validation on the effect of edge inclination angle λs in the range of 0° to 60° on hmin in radial-free turning of C45 steel. The current work investigated the MUCT hmin in oblique cutting process of C45 steel, for extremely high value of edge inclination angle λs. In this research, a special technique based on milling tool machine using a special tool and sample is presented. Enabled model tests in the unprecedented range of angles λs not used in research to date. The samples were machined using a cutting speed vc = 0.063 m/min. Vertical feed of edge fv was determined by association on the applied sample slope (τ = 0.60–0.85 mm/m) and cutting speed vc. as fv = 37.8—53.5 μm/min. MUCT hmin parameter was measured using compensation for the effects of deformation, based on profilogram analysis. The machining experiments were carried out using a tool with rn = 185 μm. It was found that in the range of angles of 50° ≤ λs ≤ 85°, the MUCT decreases from hmin = 12 μm for λs = 50° to hmin = 4 μm for λs = 85°. Increasing λs by 35° resulted in up to threefold reduction in MUCT. The analysis of the experimental results of hmin for the range of studied λs angle confirmed authors previously reported theory for extreme values of λs. In optimization procedure based on LSM, chip flow angle coefficient was determined as k = 0.75 and critical value of rake angle γcf = -64.8°. This feature provides prediction of results with great accuracy to experimental value. The findings from this study opens the possibility of developing new tools for finishing operations in the field of oblique cutting with high values of λs angle. In addition, the results introduce new area for research on improving the surface quality based on lowering the effect of MUCT on surface roughness and explaining some aspects related to surface wear in the friction process.
Functional implant positioning in total hip arthroplasty and the role of robotic-arm assistance
Authors: Fontalis Andreas , Raj Rhody David , Kim Woo Jae , Gabr Ayman , Glod Fabrice , Foissey Constant , Kayani Babar , Putzeys Pierre , Haddad Fares S.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Accurate implant positioning, tailored to the phenotype and unique biomechanics of each patient is the single most important objective in achieving stability in THA and maximise range of motion. The spine-pelvis-hip construct functions as a single unit adapting to postural changes. It is widely accepted in the literature that no universaltarget exists and variations in spinopelvic mobility mandate adjustments to the surgical plan; thus bringing to the fore the concept of personalised, functional component positioning.

Methods

This manuscript aims to outline the challenges posed by spinopelvic imbalance and present a reproducible, stepwise approach to achieve functional-component positioning. We also present the one-year functional outcomes and Patient Reported Outcome Measures of a prospective cohort operated with this technique.

Results and Conclusion

Robotic-arm assisted Total Hip Arthroplasty has facilitated enhanced planning based on the patient’s phenotype and evidence suggests it results in more reproducible and accurate implant positioning. Preservation of offset, avoiding leg-length discrepancy, accurate restoration of the centre of rotation and accomplishing the combinedversion target are very important parameters in Total Hip Arthroplasty that affect post-operative implant longevity, patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes.
Breast cancer screening with digital breast tomosynthesis: comparison of different reading strategies implementing artificial intelligence
Authors: Dahlblom Victor , Dustler Magnus , Tingberg Anders , Zackrisson Sophia
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) can detect more cancers than the current standard breast screening method, digital mammography (DM); however, it can substantially increase the reading workload and thus hinder implementation in screening. Artificial intelligence (AI) might be a solution. The aim of this study was to retrospectively test different ways of using AI in a screening workflow.

Methods

An AI system was used to analyse 14,772 double-read single-view DBT examinations from a screening trial with paired DM double reading. Three scenarios were studied: if AI can identify normal cases that can be excluded from human reading; if AI can replace the second reader; if AI can replace both readers. The number of detected cancers and false positives was compared with DM or DBT double reading.

Results

By excluding normal cases and only reading 50.5% (7460/14,772) of all examinations, 95% (121/127) of the DBT double reading detected cancers could be detected. Compared to DM screening, 27% (26/95) more cancers could be detected (p < 0.001) while keeping recall rates at the same level. With AI replacing the second reader, 95% (120/127) of the DBT double reading detected cancers could be detected—26% (25/95) more than DM screening (p < 0.001)—while increasing recall rates by 53%. AI alone with DBT has a sensitivity similar to DM double reading (p = 0.689).

Conclusion

AI can open up possibilities for implementing DBT screening and detecting more cancers with the total reading workload unchanged. Considering the potential legal and psychological implications, replacing the second reader with AI would probably be most the feasible approach.

Key Points

• Breast cancer screening with digital breast tomosynthesis and artificial intelligence can detect more cancers than mammography screening without increasing screen-reading workload.

• Artificial intelligence can either exclude low-risk cases from double reading or replace the second reader.

• Retrospective study based on paired mammography and digital breast tomosynthesis screening data.
Comparing preservation substrates under field conditions for efficient DNA recovery in bone
Authors: de Arellano Sánchez Jorge Adrián Ramírez , Ortiz José Miguel Moreno , Quintero Andres López , Pfeiffer Heidi , Vennemann Marielle , Bauer Hannah
Published: December 2022

Often bones are the only biological material left for the identification of human remains. As situations may occur where samples need to be stored for an extended period without access to cooling, appropriate storage of the bone samples is necessary for maintaining the integrity of DNA for profiling. To simulate DNA preservation under field conditions, pig rib bones were used to evaluate the effects of bone cleaning, buffer composition, storage temperature, and time on DNA recovery from bone samples. Bones were stored in three different buffers: TENT, solid sodium chloride, and ethanol-EDTA, at 20 °C and 35 °C for 10, 20, and 30 days. Bones were subsequently dried and ground to powder. DNA was extracted and quantified. Results show that temperature and storage time have no significant influence on DNA yield. DNA recovery from bones stored in solid sodium chloride or ethanol-EDTA was significantly higher compared to bones stored in TENT, and grinding of bones was facilitated by the extent of dehydration in solid sodium chloride and ethanol-EDTA compared to TENT. Overall, solid sodium chloride was found to be superior over ethanol-EDTA; when it comes to transportation, dry material such as salt eliminates the risk of leaking; it is non-toxic and in contrast to ethanol not classified as dangerous goods. Based on this study’s results, we recommend NaCl as a storage substrate for forensic samples in cases where no cooling/freezing conditions are available.
Severe neuromuscular immune-related adverse events of immune checkpoint inhibitors at national cancer center in Korea
Authors: Hyun Jae-Won , Kim Ki Hoon , Kim Su-Hyun , Kim Ho Jin
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Neuromuscular immune-related adverse events (irAEs) associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been increasingly recognized as a consequence of expanding use of ICIs in advanced cancers. We aimed to evaluate the frequency, phenotypes, rescue treatment, and clinical outcomes of severe neuromuscular irAEs of ICIs at National Cancer Center (NCC), Korea.

Materials and methods

Consecutive patients with newly developed severe neuromuscular irAEs (common terminology criteria for adverse events grade 3 or greater) after ICI treatment at NCC in Korea between December 2018 and April 2022 were included by searching neuromuscular diagnostic codes in electronic medical records and/or reviewing neurological consultation documentations.

Results

Of the 1,503 ICI-treated patients, nine (0.6%) experienced severe neuromuscular irAEs; five with pembrolizumab and four with atezolizumab. The patients included five women and four men; their median age at onset was 59 years. The irAEs included Guillain–Barre syndrome (n = 5) and myasthenia gravis (MG) crisis with myositis (n = 4), and developed after a median of one (range 1–5) ICI cycle. The median modified Rankin score (mRS) was 4 (range 3–5) at the nadir. ICIs were discontinued in all patients, and rescue immunotherapy included corticosteroids (n = 9), intravenous immunoglobulin (n = 7), and plasmapheresis (n = 2). Eight patients showed improvements, with a median mRS of 3 (range 1–4); however, one patient (who had MG crisis with myocarditis) died.

Conclusions

In this real-world monocentric study, ICI-induced neuromuscular irAEs were rare but potentially devastating; thus, physicians should remain vigilant to enable prompt recognition and management of irAEs.
The semi-sitting position in patients with indwelling CSF shunts: perioperative management and avoidance of complications
Authors: Polemikos Manolis , Bronzlik Paul , Heissler Hans E. , Hermann Elvis J. , Al-Afif Shadi , Esmaeilzadeh Majid , Krauss Joachim K.
Published: December 2022

Objective

Posterior fossa or midline tumors are often associated with hydrocephalus and primary tumor removal with or without perioperative placement of an external ventricular drain (EVD) is commonly accepted as first-line treatment. Shunting prior to posterior fossa surgery (PFS) is mostly reserved for symptomatic cases or special circumstances. There are limited data regarding the anticipated risk for symptomatic pneumocephalus and the perioperative management using the semi-sitting position (SSP) in such a scenario. Here, we therefore assessed the safety of performing PFS in a consecutive series of patients over a period of 15 years to allow the elaboration of recommendations for perioperative management.

Methods

According to specific inclusion and exclusion criteria a total of 13 patients who underwent 17 operations was identified. Supratentorial pneumocephalus was evaluated with semiautomatic-volumetric segmentation. The volume of pneumocephalus was evaluated according to age and ventricular size.

Results

Ten of the 13 patients had a programmable valve (preoperative valve setting range 6–14 cmH20; mean 7.5 cmH20) while 3 patients had non programmable valves. A variable amount of supratentorial air collection was evident in all patients postoperatively (range 3.2–331 ml; mean 122.32 ml). Positive predictors for the volume of postoperative pneumocephalus were higher age and a preoperative Evans ratio > 0.3. In our series, we encountered no cases of tension pneumocephalus necessitating an air replacement procedure as well as no obstruction, disconnection, infection or hardware malfunction of the shunt system.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that a CSF shunt in situ is not a contraindication for performing PFS in the semi-sitting position and it does not increase the pre-existing risk for postoperative tension pneumocephalus. In cases of primary shunting for hydrocephalus associated with posterior fossa tumors a programmable valve set at a medium opening pressure with a gravitational device is a valid option when PFS in the semi-sitting position is opted. In patients with an indwelling shunt diversion system special caution is indicated in order to prevent and detect overdrainage especially in not adjustable valves or shunts without antisiphon devices.
How desertification in northern China will change under a rapidly warming climate in the near future (2021–2050)
Authors: Yang Jintao , Yang Kai , Wang Chenghai
Published: December 2022

Arid, semi-arid, and semi-humid regions (drylands) with fragile ecological balance have undergone dramatic climate change in past decades, and how the desertification will change under a continuous warming background still remain uncertain. In this study, the bias-corrected Community Earth System Model outputs from Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 5 were dynamically downscaled using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, based on which the evolution trend of desertification over northern China (NC) in the past (1972–2000) and the near future period (2021–2050) under the RCP8.5 scenario were analyzed using the dune mobility index, and the impacts of climate change on the intensification or reversal of desertification over NC in the near future were explored. The results show that WRF downscaling can reproduce the desertification changes over NC in the past. The regions with a high risk of desertification are mainly located on the border of the desert and gobi. Under a rapidly warming climate in the near future, desertification will likely reverse in most regions of NC, especially for regions north of 40°N over NC. Potential evapotranspiration changes will exacerbate desertification, while precipitation changes will promote rehabilitation, and wind speed changes show obvious local impacts on desertification. The results in this study imply that, with rising temperatures in the future, the extent of desertification will not always continue, desertification will likely reverse at the front and margin of deserts and gobi, and responses of desertification to climate change have significant spatial differences.
Influence of dental prophylaxis procedures on the tooth veneer interface in resin-based composite and polymer-infiltrated ceramic veneer restorations: an in vitro study
Authors: Unterschütz Lena , Fuchs Florian , Mayer Laura-Antonia , Koenig Andreas , Challakh Nadia , Schulz-Kornas Ellen , Ziebolz Dirk , Hahnel Sebastian
Published: December 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of dental prophylaxis cleaning procedures and artificial aging on veneers in human teeth. The external marginal and internal tooth veneer as well as the restoration surfaces were examined.

Material and methods

Thirty-two extracted premolars were restored with resin-based composite (RBC) and polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (PICN) veneers. Artificial aging by alternating thermocycling and subsequent prophylaxis procedure (glycine-based powder air polishing or ultrasonic scaling) was conducted for five consecutive cycles. The external marginal interface was examined by height profile measurements and the internal interface was investigated using micro X-ray computed tomography. In addition, the surface texture of the veneer surface was analyzed using confocal laser scanning microscopy.

Results

The application of both prophylaxis procedures resulted in a deepening of the marginal interface (10 µm ± 8 µm) for materials. Furthermore, the internal interface of PICN restorations showed marginal gaps after both treatments and artificial aging (16 µm ± 3 µm). In contrast to the RBC specimens, a significant increase in surface roughness was identified for PICN veneers after ultrasonic scaling.

Conclusions

The marginal and internal interface regions in veneers fabricated from PICN and RBC were affected by prophylaxis procedures. Furthermore, it may result in increased veneer surface roughness, especially in PICN and after ultrasonic scaling, which might affect bioadhesion and longevity.

Clinical relevance

After dental prophylaxis procedures, examination of the marginal and the internal interface as well as the veneer surface provides a precise insight into damage mechanisms and offers an assessment of longevity.
Associations between digital gaming behavior and physical activity among Finnish vocational students
Authors: Salmensalo Mikko , Ruotsalainen Heidi , Hylkilä Krista , Kääriäinen Maria , Konttila Jenni , Männistö Merja , Männikkö Niko
Published: December 2022

Digital gaming is considered to be a major sedentary lifestyle among youth. The time spent on digital gaming may also affect the physical behavior of young adults.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the associations between various characteristics of digital gaming behavior (i.e., gaming time, device, and game type) and participation in physical activity among Finnish vocational students.

Materials and methods

The research employed a cross-sectional survey design. The analyzed sample consisted of 773 students (455 males, 318 females) from eight vocational school units in Northern Finland who regularly played digital games. Data were collected via an online self-reported questionnaire, which included questions concerning average weekly time spent on digital gaming, preferred device, favorite types of games, and physical activity.

Results

The students spent an average of two hours each day playing digital games. Males preferred to play using personal computers (PCs), whereas mobile gaming was more popular among females. Shooter (42.4%) and entertainment (64.2%) games were the most popular game types among males and females, respectively. The results revealed that male gender and PC gaming were both positively related to physical inactivity among vocational school students. A preference toward sport games was inversely related with physical inactivity.

Conclusion

The presented findings can be utilized to develop interventions that target the prevention of sedentary behavior among vocational students. Further longitudinal studies will be required to reliably assess the relationship between digital gaming and physical activity.
Organic matter cycling in a model restored wetland receiving complex effluent
Authors: Zhou Xingzi , Johnston Sarah Ellen , Bogard Matthew J.
Published: December 2022

Wetlands have been used to treat anthropogenic effluents for decades due to their intense biogeochemical processes that transform and uptake nutrients, organic matter, and toxins. Despite these known functions, we lack generalizable knowledge of effluent-derived dissolved organic matter (DOM) cycling in wetlands. Here, we quantify the cycling of DOM in one of Canada’s more economically important wetland complexes (Frank Lake, Alberta), restored to hydrologic permanence in the 1980s using urban and agro-industrial effluents. Optical analyses and PARAFAC (parallel factor analysis) modelling showed a clear compositional change from more bioavailable and protein-like DOM at effluent input sites to more aromatic and humic-like at the wetland outflow, likely due to DOM processing and inputs from marsh plants and wetland soils. Microbial incubations showed that effluent DOM was rapidly consumed, with the half-life of DOM increasing from as low as 35 days for effluent, to 462 days at the outflow, as a function of compositional shifts toward aromatic, humic-like material. Long-term averaged dissolved organic carbon (DOC) export was low compared to many wetlands (10.3 ± 2.0 g C m−2 yr−1). Consistent with predictions based on water residence time, our mass balance showed Frank Lake was a net source of DOM across all measured years, but shifted from a source to sink among wet and drought years that respectively shortened or lengthened the water residence and DOM processing times. Overall, Frank Lake processes and transforms effluent DOM, despite being a longer-term net source of DOM to downstream environments.
Exploring the architectural design process assisted in conventional design studio: a systematic literature review
Authors: Hettithanthri Upeksha , Hansen Preben , Munasinghe Harsha
Published: December 2022

The architectural design process is a unique process that has its inherent phases with specific activities within. Exploring and identifying the real design process which occurs within the conventional design studio is the key focus of this study. This study was carried out by adopting systematic literature review methodology. The most relevant articles for the review were identified by applying an inclusion and exclusion criteria based on a rubric developed to find answers to the research questions developed. For the literature review, 50 articles were selected by eliminating the non-related and non-suitable articles based on the rubric developed. The data was analysed by the content analysis based on the Grounded Theory. Grounded Theory was applied to generate a theory based on the data or findings. The results have given data to draw a Design Process model which is specific for architectural design studio practice. It is evident that the lack of integrating the intended user in the design process has impacted the solutions. Furthermore, many scholars have discussed the architectural design process, but there is a significant gap in discussing the involvement of users and context during the design process.
Developing an understanding of coherent approaches between primary and secondary teachers: a case study within the design and technology curriculum in Scotland
Authors: Hart-Anderson Liza , Holme Richard
Published: December 2022

This study is based around Education Scotland’s ambition to create a coherent learning framework for pupils aged 3–18, with particular focus on the technologies curricular area, and more specifically the subject of design and technology (D&T). The study investigates the views, definitions, and approaches adopted by primary and secondary educators applied to the D&T curricular area. Furthermore, the research explores curricular understanding and pedagogical approaches in addition to individual teacher’s understanding of technology education. A mixed method research approach was utilised and applied within one local authority region in Scotland. Data was collected from primary teachers and secondary design and technology teachers using online questionnaires and interviews. Findings reveal that there is a varied approach to teaching design and technology across primary and secondary schools with educators recognising different definitions and pedagogical approaches in the subject. This indicates that pupils transitioning from primary to secondary learning will have to cope with these differing teaching approaches when studying design and technology. However, participants agree on the importance of the design element and application of the subject to real world scenarios. It is recommended that school communities find opportunities to collaborate further with the aim of creating a more continuous, coherent learning journey for young people in the design and technology curriculum area. These findings provide a basis for future professional discussion and critical reflection for practitioners in both primary and secondary sectors, and for leaders and administrators across Scotland, the UK and around the world.
Pulsed-field ablation for the treatment of left atrial reentry tachycardia
Authors: Kueffer Thomas , Seiler Jens , Madaffari Antonio , Mühl Aline , Asatryan Babken , Stettler Robin , Haeberlin Andreas , Noti Fabian , Servatius Helge , Tanner Hildegard , Baldinger Samuel H. , Reichlin Tobias , Roten Laurent
Published: December 2022

Background

We describe our initial experience using a multipolar pulsed-field ablation catheter for the treatment of left atrial (LA) reentry tachycardia.

Methods

We included all patients with LA reentry tachycardia treated with PFA at our institution between September 2021 and March 2022. The tachycardia mechanism was identified using 3D electro-anatomical mapping (3D-EAM). Subsequently, a roof line, anterior line, or mitral isthmus line was ablated as appropriate. Roof line ablation was always combined with LA posterior wall (LAPW) ablation. Positioning of the PFA catheter was guided by a 3D-EAM system and by fluoroscopy. Bidirectional block across lines was verified using standard criteria. Additional radiofrequency ablation (RFA) was used to achieve bidirectional block as necessary.

Results

Among 22 patients (median age 70 (59–75) years; 9 females), we identified 27 LA reentry tachycardia: seven roof dependent macro-reentries, one posterior-wall micro-reentry, twelve peri-mitral macro-reentries, and seven anterior-wall micro-reentries. We ablated a total of 20 roof lines, 13 anterior lines, and 6 mitral isthmus lines. Additional RFA was necessary for two anterior lines (15%) and three mitral isthmus lines (50%). Bidirectional block was achieved across all roof lines, 92% of anterior lines, and 83% of mitral isthmus lines. We observed no acute procedural complications.

Conclusion

Ablation of a roof line and of the LAPW is feasible, effective, and safe using this multipolar PFA catheter. However, the catheter is less suited for ablation of the mitral isthmus and the anterior line. A focal pulsed-field ablation catheter may be more effective for ablation of these lines.

Graphical Abstract

This study shows the feasibility to ablate linear lesions with a multipolar pulsed-field ablation catheter. 27 left atrial reentry tachycardia were treated in 22 patients.