bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food neophobia among Nigerian consumers: a study on attitudes towards novel turmeric‐fortified drinks
Authors: Idowu‐Adebayo Folake , Fogliano Vincenzo , Oluwamukomi Matthew O , Oladimeji Segun , Linnemann Anita R
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Knowledge on food neophobia among African consumers is scarce. Yet a good understanding in this area is essential to support the acceptance of new foods, for instance, when fortifying familiar foods to improve the health and nutritional status of the populace. In this paper, food neophobia among Nigerian consumers was assessed by their attitudes towards unfamiliar beverages, namely turmeric‐fortified drinks. Turmeric was chosen as the Nigerian government is stimulating its production for income generation, but the spice is not commonly used in Nigerian foods and drinks.

RESULTS

Familiar street‐vended drinks, i.e. soymilk and the hibiscus‐based drink zobo, were fortified with turmeric. Respondents (483) were allowed to try both the familiar and unfamiliar (turmeric‐fortified) drinks. Subjects also filled in a 20‐item questionnaire concerning attitudes toward food and eating. Food neophobia was measured by the Food Attitude Survey (FAS) instrument ratings. Using the FAS, people who reported liking the fortified drinks (‘likers’) were compared with those who disliked the drinks (‘dislikers’) and those who were unwilling to try the drinks (‘will not tryers’). Males were found to be more food neophobic than females. Middle‐class income earners, the age group of 26–35 years and respondents with the highest education levels also showed a more food neophobic attitude towards turmeric‐fortified drinks.

CONCLUSION

Practical insights are given regarding the introduction of novel foods to Nigerian consumers by paying attention to attitudes from respondents with different demographic characteristics. The use of influencers seems to be a promising approach to address food neophobia in Nigeria. © 2020 The Authors.Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculturepublished by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Evaluation of dynamic changes in the bioactive components in Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (Citrus reticulata ‘Chachi’) under different harvesting and drying conditions
Authors: Zheng Guodong , Chao Yingxin , Liu Mengshi , Yang Yuhua , Zhang Dedong , Wang Kanghui , Tao Yiwen , Zhang Jianye , Li Yongmei , Wei Minyan
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

The Citrus reticulata ‘Chachi’ pericarp (CRCP) is one cultivar of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (Chenpi), which is widely applied in medicine and food. To determine the potential value of CRCP harvested at different stages and subjected to different drying processes, the dynamic changes in the bioactive components were profiled and evaluated in this study.

RESULTS

The contents of all non‐volatile components, i.e. synephrine, limonin, phenolic acids and flavonoids, decreased with delayed harvest time. The volatiles thujene, α‐pinene, β‐pinene, d‐citronellol, d‐citronellal, decanal, linalool, geraniol, l‐cis‐carveol, terpinen‐4‐ol, α‐terpineol, carvacrol, perillaldehyde, methyl 2‐(methylamino)benzoate and d‐limonene were considered the characteristic components for distinguishing CRCP harvested at different stages. Phenolic acids, synephrine and limonin were stable at different drying temperatures; however, high‐temperature drying at 60 °C induced a significant transformation in the flavonoids (especially polymethoxyflavones) and volatile substances in CRCP.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggested that most of the bioactive components declined with the growth of Citrus reticulata ‘Chachi’. And it is believed that the fresh peel should be naturally sun‐dried or dried at low temperature (30 or 45 °C) rather than at high temperature (60 °C) to prevent excessive loss of nutrients. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of different drying methods on product quality, bioactive and toxic components of Ginkgo biloba L. seed
Authors: Boateng Isaac Duah , Yang Xiao‐Ming
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Ginkgo biloba seeds are used as a functional food across Asia. However, the presence of toxic compounds has limited their application. In this study, freeze drying, infrared drying, hot‐air drying and pulsed‐vacuum drying were used to dry G. biloba seeds. A comprehensive analysis was performed on their product quality, antioxidant activities, bioactive and toxic components.

RESULTS

Results showed that the drying methods had a significant influence on product quality with freeze drying being superior due to the minimal microstructural damage, followed by infrared drying and pulsed‐vacuum drying. Infrared‐dried product possessed the strongest antioxidant activities and higher bioactive compound content than hot‐air‐dried and pulsed‐vacuum‐dried product. Toxic compounds in fresh G. biloba seeds (ginkgotoxin, ginkgolic acid and cyanide) were reduced markedly by drying. Ginkgotoxin was reduced fourfold, and the contents of acrylamide, ginkgolic acid and cyanide in dried G. biloba seeds were reduced to the scope of safety. Amongst the four drying methods, infrared drying had the shortest drying time, and its product showed higher quality and bioactive compound content, and stronger antioxidant activities.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings will offer salient information for selecting a drying method during the processing of ginkgo seeds. Infrared drying could be considered as a multiple‐effect drying method in the processing of ginkgo seeds. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Behavior of concentrated emulsions prepared by acid‐hydrolyzed insoluble microalgae proteins from Chlorella protothecoides
Authors: Dai Laixin , Cepeda Melanie , Hinrichs Jörg , Weiss Jochen
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Microalgae are a promising alternative source to meet the increasing global demand for protein. The insoluble microalgae protein fraction that makes up over half of the protein composition of the biomass has shown potential to serve as a functional emulsifier after acidic hydrolysis. However, creaming was observed due to the flocculation of emulsion droplets, suggesting a preferable use in concentrated emulsions.

RESULTS

In this study, we examined the emulsifying behavior of the untreated insoluble microalgae protein fraction and two of its hydrolysates obtained in 0.5 mol L–1 HCl for 4 h at 65 °C (Hydrolysates 65) or 85 °C (Hydrolysates 85), at a concentration of 3% (w/w), and elevated levels of oil (50–70%). The results showed an increase in droplet size and apparent viscosity with increasing oil content in the emulsions. The emulsions made with Hydrolysates 85 had the smallest droplet size and the highest apparent viscosity. The gravitational separation was hindered when oil content was increased. The Hydrolysates 85 stabilized emulsions had a gel‐like structure and were stable against coalescence or creaming during a 7 day storage test.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that the thermal acid‐treated fraction Hydrolysates 85 may, in particular, be a good emulsifier to formulate concentrated emulsion‐based foods with oil content over 50%, such as mayonnaise, salad dressings, or dips. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
In vitro digestion of emulsified lard‐based diacylglycerols
Authors: Diao Xiaoqin , Guan Haining , Kong Baohua , Liu Dengyong , Zhang Yonggen
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Diacylglycerols as a fat substitute in meat products is a growing area of interest. This study was conducted to analyze the digestion rate, digestion extent, and changes in interfacial properties of lard, glycerolized lard (GL), and purified GL (PGL) in an emulsions system by pH‐stat in vitro digestion.

RESULTS

PGL had significantly higher hydrolysis rate and final digestion extent than lard (P ≤ 0.05) during in vitro digestion. The analysis on diameter variations of lard, GL, and PGL during digestion indicated that the surface‑ and volume‐weighted mean particle diameters of all samples had the same variation trend, but variation degree was different. Concurrently, the ζ‐potential analysis of the lard, GL, and PGL during the digestion process showed that the absolute values of the ζ‐potentials of the three types of lipids increased at first and subsequently decreased. The microstructure changes results for lard, GL, and PGL showed there was no obvious flocculation, and the particle size of lard throughout the digestion process was larger than that of GL and PGL.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that lard‐based diacylglycerols had high digestibility characteristics and could be applied as a functional lipid in meat products to improve human health. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Solid‐phase microextraction for the human biomonitoring of environmental chemicals: Current applications and future perspectives
Authors: Kim Un‐Jung , Karthikraj Rajendiran
Published: November 2020

Sample preparation is one of the crucial steps in the analytical chemistry including human biomonitoring studies. Although there are several traditional approaches available, solid‐phase microextraction is emerged as one of the pioneering techniques due to its simplicity, rapidness, wide applicability, and miniaturization of traditional sample preparation (e.g., use of less or no organic solvents). There are few earlier review articles available on the advancements in solid‐phase microextraction and its use for the measurement of environmental chemicals in various types of environmental samples. However, a collective information on applicability and current usage of solid‐phase microextraction for the human biomonitoring of environmental chemicals are scarce, nonetheless, rising demands on innovative analytical approaches for human biomonitoring studies. Hence, in this review article, we covered the application of solid‐phase microextraction as extraction/purification methods for more than 15 classes of environmental chemicals to assess their respective exposure levels and associated health outcomes in various human population reported across the globe. Further, a detailed discussion on various types of matrix used, nature of coupled analytical instrumentations, and limitations and future perspectives of solid‐phase microextraction for human biomonitoring studies is presented in this review.
Gelatin/dextran‐based hydrogel cross‐linked by Diels–Alder click chemistry: the swelling and potassium diclofenac releasing
Authors: Debone Piazza Rodolfo , Brandt João Victor , Carvalho dos Santos Caio , Fernando Costa Marques Rodrigo , Jafelicci Junior Miguel
Published: November 2020

In the present work, gelatin and dextran were derivatized in order to obtain a chemically cross‐linked hydrogel by Diels–Alder click chemistry reaction. The main interest in cross‐linking by the Diels–Alder reaction is the absence of by‐products and mild synthetic conditions, being a great advantage for biomedical applications. Thus, maleic anhydride (MA) and 2‐furoic acid (FA) were successfully grafted onto gelatin and dextran, respectively, making available the diene and dienophile groups for further cross‐linking. The derivatization was evaluated by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The Diels–Alder cross‐linking was confirmed by UV/Vis spectroscopy, and hydrogel behaviour was evaluated by rheological measurements. The hydrogel swelling properties and the cumulative release profile of diclofenac potassium (DFK) were studied in different dissolution media. The increase in swelling capacity was followed by faster DFK releasing from the platform, being the gelatin/dextran‐based Diels–Alder click hydrogel suitable for biomedical applications.
Auto station precipitation data making up using an improved neuro net
Authors: Lu Jing , Zhang Xiakun
Published: November 2020

In the real world, precipitation data of automatic weather stations are easily influenced by direct thunderstrokes, instrument ageing, electromagnetic interference, human operation errors and other factors. When close to the observation time, if the missing automatic station data cannot be corrected in a timely fashion, the whole quality of the station data will be affected. Thus, correct handling of the missing precipitation data to maintain their integrity has important significance. In this paper, we propose a “from coarse to fine” (FCTF) neural network to fill out the missing blanks and experiments show that this method to solve the problem of meteorological data shortage is effective.
Assessing the risk of windshear occurrence at HKIA using rare‐event logistic regression
Authors: Chen Feng , Peng Haorong , Chan Pak‐wai , Ma Xiaoxiang , Zeng Xiaoqing
Published: November 2020

Low‐level windshear poses serious hazards to the flight safety of civil aircraft. The objective of the study was to assess the risk of windshear occurrence within 1 hr at runway corridors at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). Windshear report records from HKIA and weather data around HKIA were obtained from Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) between January 2016 and December 2018. The rare‐event logistic regression was employed to evaluate windshear risk considering the imbalanced nature of the data. Several explanatory variables were found to be significantly correlated with the risk of the hourly occurrence of the windshear. Results indicated that at HKIA, March, April, July and August are associated with a higher likelihood of windshear events, while November suffered a significantly lower windshear risk. Besides, winds from the east, southeast, south and southwest are more likely to cause windshear events at HKIA. However, the study found that it was hard to predict windshear occurrence precisely only with the hourly weather variables due to the transient and sporadic nature of windshear. Therefore, more refined data are needed to improve the prediction performance of regression models for windshear occurrence. The present study is the first to analyse the windshear occurrence at airports using the rare‐event logistic regression method. Findings from the study can provide some references and valuable information for related researchers to understand low‐level windshear.
Real‐time biomechanics using the finite element method and machine learning: Review and perspective
Authors: Phellan Renzo , Hachem Bahe , Clin Julien , Mac‐Thiong Jean‐Marc , Duong Luc
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The finite element method (FEM) is the preferred method to simulate phenomena in anatomical structures. However, purely FEM‐based mechanical simulations require considerable time, limiting their use in clinical applications that require real‐time responses, such as haptics simulators. Machine learning (ML) approaches have been proposed to help with the reduction of the required time. The present paper reviews cases where ML could help to generate faster simulations, without considerably affecting the performance results.

Methods

This review details the ML approaches used, considering the anatomical structures involved, the data collection strategies, the selected ML algorithms, with corresponding features, the metrics used for validation, and the resulting time gains.

Results

A total of 41 references were found. ML algorithms are mainly trained with FEM‐based simulations in 32 publications. The preferred ML approach is neural networks, including deep learning in 35 publications. Tissue deformation is simulated in 18 applications, but other features are also considered. The average distance error and mean squared error are the most frequently used performance metrics, in 14 and 17 publications, respectively. The time gains were considerable, going from hours or minutes for purely FEM‐based simulations to milliseconds, when using ML.

Conclusions

ML algorithms can be used to accelerate FEM‐based biomechanical simulations of anatomical structures, possibly reaching real‐time responses. Fast and real‐time simulations of anatomical structures, generated with ML algorithms, can help to reduce the time required by FEM‐based simulations and accelerate their adoption in the clinical practice.
3D source tracking and error detection in HDR using two independent scintillator dosimetry systems
Authors: Linares Rosales Haydee M. , Johansen Jacob G. , Kertzscher Gustavo , Tanderup Kari , Beaulieu Luc , Beddar Sam
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study is to perform three‐dimensional (3D) source position reconstruction by combining in vivo dosimetry measurements from two independent detector systems.

Methods

Time‐resolved dosimetry was performed in a water phantom during HDR brachytherapy irradiation with Ir source using two detector systems. The first was based on three plastic scintillator detectors and the second on a single inorganic crystal (CsI:Tl). Brachytherapy treatments were simulated in water under TG‐43U1 conditions, including a HDR prostate plan. Treatment needles were placed in distances covering a range of source movement of 120 mm around the detectors. The distance from each dwell position to each scintillator was determined based on the measured dose rates. The three distances given by the mPSD were recalculated to a position along the catheter (z) and a distance radially away from the mPSD (xy) for each dwell position (a circumference around the mPSD). The source x, y, and z coordinates were derived from the intersection of the mPSD’s circumference with the sphere around the ISD based on the distance to this detector. We evaluated the accuracy of the source position reconstruction as a function of the distance to the source, the most likely location for detector positioning within a prostate volume, as well as the capacity to detect positioning errors.

Results

Approximately 4000 source dwell positions were tracked for eight different HDR plans. An intersection of the mPSD torus and the ISD sphere was observed in 77.2% of the dwell positions, assuming no uncertainty in the dose rate determined distance. This increased to 100% if 1σ search regions were added. However, only 73(96)% of the expected dwell positions were found within the intersection band for 1(2) σ uncertainties. The agreement between the source’s reconstructed and expected positions was within 3 mm for a range of distances to the source up to 50 mm. The experiments on a HDR prostate plan, showed that by having at least one of the detectors located in the middle of the prostate volume, reduces the measurement deviations considerably compared to scenarios where the detectors were located outside of the prostate volume. The analysis showed a detection probability that, in most cases, is far from the random detection threshold. Errors of 1(2) mm can be detected in ranges of 5–25 (25–50) mm from the source, with a true detection probability rate higher than 80%, while the false probability rate is kept below 20%.

Conclusions

By combining two detector responses, we enabled the determination of the absolute source coordinates. The combination of the mPSD and the ISD in vivo dosimetry constitutes a promising alternative for real‐time 3D source tracking in HDR brachytherapy.
Oral health matters in cognitive impaired aged residents in geriatric care facilities: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Chen Lan , Gu Liyan , Li Xianchen , Chen Wenyao , Zhang Lingjuan
Published: November 2020

Aims

To investigate the oral health status of aged residents and explore the possible factors associated with oral health and the effect of cognitive impairment (CI) on it in geriatric care facilities (GCF) using oral health assessment tool (OHAT) in Shanghai, China.

Background

Oral health is closely associated with overall health. Problems like missing teeth, dental caries, dental pain, periodontal diseases, oral infections and dysphagia are common in GCFs. Furthermore, residents in GCFs with CI are becoming a dominant group and this prevalence increases with age. Detection of oral problems earlier and taking oral care actions is required for these special populations.

Methods

The study was an observational cross‐sectional study conducted in 42 GCFs. Data were collected from 657 subjects, including oral health assessment (OHAT), cognitive impairment (Mini‐Mental State Examination, MMSE) and respondents’ characteristics. The subjects were divided into CI group and non‐CI group based on MMSE. Oral health conditions were compared between the two groups.

Results

Oral health status in the CI group was significantly worse than that in the non‐CI group (p < .001) with four OHAT dimensions (tongue (p = .0007), saliva (p = .0011), natural teeth (p = .0155) and oral cleanliness (p < .001)). The worst dimension was natural teeth. Debris and plaque index (p < .001), oral odour (p < .001), chewing function (p = .0151) and swallowing function (p = .0405) were worse in CI group than those in non‐CI group. In the CI group, providing oral care was a protective factor in oral health (OR = 0.600 95CI% (0.39–0.92)) and wearing dentures was a risk factor (OR = 2.09, 95CI% (1.31–3.32)), while the similar effects were not found in non‐CI group.

Conclusions

Oral health status among aged residents in GCFs in China was worse among individuals with CI. Caregivers in GCFs should focus more on seniors’ oral health with CI.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Residents who are suffering from CI are more vulnerable to have oral problems. Regular and proper oral health check‐ups in daily nursing work to define oral problems of residents are significant. Nursing staff should pay more attention to oral assessment and effective intervention.
Chemical structure and curing dynamics of bisphenol S, PEEKTM‐like, and resveratrol phthalonitrile thermoset resins
Authors: Dyatkin Boris , Osti Naresh C. , Smith Robert W. , Tyagi Madhusudan , Butler Tristan , Laskoski Matthew
Published: November 2020

This effort provides a multifaceted analysis of the structural changes and material dynamics of thermally driven softening and curing of three distinct phthalonitrile (PN) resins that cross‐link into thermally stable and oxidation‐resistant thermosets. Although this material system has yielded a large subset of fire‐retardant composites that require facile processing and low‐temperature curing, to date, insufficient information had been available on the fundamental processes that drive their softening and curing stages. Our approach conducted a complementary analysis the chemistry, monomer mobility, and rheology of three PN polymers in order to correlate the curing processes with corresponding structural and behavioral transformations of thermosets. We focused on PNs with a bisphenol S backbone, a bisphenol A (PEEKTM‐like) backbone, and a resveratrol backbone. We relied on quasi‐elastic neutron scattering (QENS) in order to analyze the in situ dynamics and self‐diffusion properties of PN monomers, and to track changes in their mobilities during cross‐linking and staging. Our analysis facilitates proper control over the staging and final curing of these resins and enables more efficient processing of these thermosets.
Investigation of Gamma‐Radiation Shielding Properties of Cadmium Bismuth Borate Glass Experimentally and by Using XCOM Program and MCNP5 Code
Authors: Alajerami Yasser Saleh Mustafa , Drabold David A. , Mhareb M. H. A. , Cimatu Katherine Leslee A. , Chen Gang , Abushab K. M.
Published: November 2020

New glass systems of bismuth borate with various concentrations of cadmium oxide are prepared based on the melt‐quenching method. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) reveals a fully amorphous structure of the prepared glasses (S1–S4), and the UV–vis results display good transparency (>50%) in the visible and near‐UV region. In addition, the radiation shielding properties (mass attenuation coefficient, half‐value layer, tenth value layer, mean free path, effective atomic number, and electron density) of the new glass system are determined at selected energies experimentally and by using MCNP5 simulation code and XCOM computer program. Based on the calculated relative difference, the obtained values from MCNP5 and XCOM are in good agreement with the experimental data. The mean free path of the current systems (particularly S4) shows optimistic results when compared with the barite and chalcocite concretes.
On the first two extremum Zagreb indices and coindices of chemical trees
Authors: Du Zhibin , Ali Akbar , Rafee Rabbia , Raza Zahid , Jamil Muhammad Kamran
Published: November 2020

The first and second Zagreb indices are the molecular descriptors that were appeared within a study of molecular modeling more than four decades ago. The coindex versions of these Zagreb indices were introduced around one decade before. Finding trees with the first two extremum Zagreb indices/coindices from the class of all chemical trees of a fixed order is a chemical‐graph‐theoretic problem whose partial solution is known. This paper is devoted to reporting the complete solution of the aforementioned problem.
N2 electrochemical reduction on two dimensional transition metal monoborides: A density functional theory study
Authors: Xu Shaohua , Qin Gangqiang , Jiang Quan , Cui Qianyi , Du Aijun , Zhao Chongjun , Sun Qiao
Published: November 2020

Electrochemical reduction of N2 at ambient conditions is emerging as a promising route and can be powered by sustainable energies. Large overpotential and the competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) are the two major issues associated with the N2 reduction. Thus, the development of efficient electrocatalysts with low overpotential is of utmost significance for electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR). In this theoretical study, we report a valuable insight toward a novel two dimensional (2D) transition metal monoboride (TMB) material possessing efficient electrocatalysts application for NRR, investigated by density functional theory method. Through systematically exploring the Gibbs free energy of N2 adsorption on the different TMB (TM = Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni and Mo) nanosheets and analyzing adsorption energy of N2H and NH2 species on these catalysts, we found MoB nanosheets may be the optimum choice as an electrocatalyst for NRR. Moreover, our results also indicate that NRR on MoB nanosheets via the enzymatic pathway is the most favored pathway and *NH*NH → *NH*NH2 is potential‐limiting step with a very low applied overpotential of 0.14 V. In addition, the limiting potentials of NRR (−0.30 V) and HER (−0.48 V) on MoB nanosheet suggest that NRR is prefer to happen on the catalyst. Overall, this study demonstrates that MoB nanosheets as a novel 2D monolayer, which might be utilized as an efficient electrocatalyst for NRR at ambient conditions.
Global optimization of chemical cluster structures: Methods, applications, and challenges
Authors: Zhang Jun , Glezakou Vassiliki‐Alexandra
Published: November 2020

Chemical clusters are relevant to many applications in catalysis, separations, materials, and energy sciences. Experimentally, the structure of clusters is difficult to determine, but it is very important in understanding their chemistry and properties. Computational methods can be used to examine cluster structure, however finding the most stable structure is not simple, particularly as the cluster size increases. Global optimization techniques have long been used to tackle the problem of the most stable structure, but such approaches would have to look for a global minimum, while sampling local minima over the whole potential energy surface as well. In this review, the state‐of‐the‐art theory of global optimization theory is summarized. First, the definition, significance, relation to experiments, and a brief history of global optimization is presented. We then discuss, in more detail, three versatile global optimization methods: the basin hopping, the artificial bee colony algorithm, and the genetic algorithm. We close with some representative application examples of global optimization of clusters since 2016 and the challenges, open questions and opportunities in this field.
Recapturing embryonic potential in the adult epicardium: Prospects for cardiac repair
Authors: Redpath Andia N. , Smart Nicola
Published: November 2020

Research into potential targets for cardiac repair encompasses recognition of tissue-resident cells with intrinsic regenerative properties. The adult vertebrate heart is covered by mesothelium, named the epicardium, which becomes active in response to injury and contributes to repair, albeit suboptimally. Motivation to manipulate the epicardium for treatment of myocardial infarction is deeply rooted in its central role in cardiac formation and vasculogenesis during development. Moreover, the epicardium is vital to cardiac muscle regeneration in lower vertebrate and neonatal mammalian-injured hearts. In this review, we discuss our current understanding of the biology of the mammalian epicardium in development and injury. Considering present challenges in the field, we further contemplate prospects for reinstating full embryonic potential in the adult epicardium to facilitate cardiac regeneration.
Plasma Cytokeratin 18 and fecal Alpha‐1 Antitrypsin concentrations in dogs with osteosarcoma receiving carboplatin chemotherapy
Authors: Taikowski Kathryn , Rudinsky Adam J. , Louke Darian S. , Warry Emma , Fenger Joelle M.
Published: November 2020

Gastrointestinal (GI) toxicosis is a common side effect of cytotoxic chemotherapy treatment in humans and dogs. Measurement of cytokeratin 18 (CK18), an intracellular structural protein released during epithelial apoptosis, and Alpha1‐Antitrypsin (A1AT) in faeces provides a mechanism for evaluating damage to the intestinal mucosa secondary to cytotoxic chemotherapy. Our goal was to evaluate the clinical utility of plasma CK18 and faecal A1‐AT levels as non‐invasive biomarkers of cytotoxic chemotherapy induced GI toxicity. We conducted a prospective cohort study in dogs (N = 10) with osteosarcoma undergoing amputation followed by carboplatin chemotherapy. We hypothesized that plasma CK18 and faecal A1‐AT levels would increase following carboplatin administration due to drug‐induced GI epithelial damage/apoptosis, and that plasma CK18 and faecal A1‐AT levels would correlate with severity of GI toxicity. Mean baseline plasma CK18 concentration was variable amongst patients; however, CK18 concentration prior to carboplatin chemotherapy treatment was not significantly different from CK18 levels after treatment. There was significant intra and inter‐patient variability in mean faecal A1‐AT levels at baseline. Mean A1‐AT concentration did not change significantly from day 0 to day 21. Gastrointestinal toxicity was minimal; therefore, we were unable to determine the association of plasma CK18 and faecal A1‐AT concentrations with development of GI toxicosis. In this study population, plasma CK18 and faecal A1‐AT concentration were not clinically useful biomarkers for the detection of GI toxicosis secondary to carboplatin administration. Further prospective evaluation of CK18 and A1‐AT as biomarkers of drug‐induced GI toxicity is warranted in a larger cohort of dogs receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy.

AVMA clinical trial registration number: AAHSD004827.
n-Laplacians on Metric Graphs and Almost Periodic Functions: I
Authors: Kurasov Pavel , Muller Jacob
Published: November 2020

The spectra of n-Laplacian operators $$(-\Delta )^n$$

(
-
Δ
)

n

on finite metric graphs are studied. An effective secular equation is derived and the spectral asymptotics are analysed, exploiting the fact that the secular function is close to a trigonometric polynomial. The notion of the quasispectrum is introduced, and its uniqueness is proved using the theory of almost periodic functions. To achieve this, new results concerning roots of functions close to almost periodic functions are proved. The results obtained on almost periodic functions are of general interest outside the theory of differential operators.
Crop adaptation to climate change as a consequence of long-term breeding
Authors: Snowdon Rod J. , Wittkop Benjamin , Chen Tsu-Wei , Stahl Andreas
Published: November 2020

Major global crops in high-yielding, temperate cropping regions are facing increasing threats from the impact of climate change, particularly from drought and heat at critical developmental timepoints during the crop lifecycle. Research to address this concern is frequently focused on attempts to identify exotic genetic diversity showing pronounced stress tolerance or avoidance, to elucidate and introgress the responsible genetic factors or to discover underlying genes as a basis for targeted genetic modification. Although such approaches are occasionally successful in imparting a positive effect on performance in specific stress environments, for example through modulation of root depth, major-gene modifications of plant architecture or function tend to be highly context-dependent. In contrast, long-term genetic gain through conventional breeding has incrementally increased yields of modern crops through accumulation of beneficial, small-effect variants which also confer yield stability via stress adaptation. Here we reflect on retrospective breeding progress in major crops and the impact of long-term, conventional breeding on climate adaptation and yield stability under abiotic stress constraints. Looking forward, we outline how new approaches might complement conventional breeding to maintain and accelerate breeding progress, despite the challenges of climate change, as a prerequisite to sustainable future crop productivity.
Investigating the industrial impact of hydraulic oil contamination on tool wear during machining and the development of a novel quantification methodology
Authors: Khan Thawhid , Broderick Matthew , Taylor Chris M.
Published: November 2020

Water based metalworking fluids (MWFs) commonly used for cooling and lubrication during machining are utilised in combination with cutting tools, work materials, fixtures and machine tools. However, they are an often overlooked component of the overall machining process, despite the fact that in some reported cases MWF costs were twice that of tooling costs. During its life cycle in a machine tool, the MWF is exposed to changes due to a range of factors which impact its quality and longevity. The key process variables (KPVs) reviewed in this study are MWF concentration, hydraulic (tramp) oil, solid particulates, water quality, MWF pH and microbial contamination. The aim of the present work is to highlight these KPVs which impact machining quality and health and safety, and to present industrially applicable measurement, monitoring and control (MMC) methods and techniques. This review is supported by a machining case study which demonstrates the impact of a single KPV—hydraulic (tramp) oil on MWF quality and machining output, and the need for applying MMC methods. Continuous hydraulic (tramp) oil contamination into the cutting fluid can cause tool life and wear to vary by 70%. A novel quantification methodology with gas chromatography was developed in this study to quantitatively measure hydraulic (tramp) oil contamination present within MWF and verified through experiments. The study overall highlights the need to apply a strict maintenance programme to increase the MWF lifetime and maintain performance for improved production, experimental process control and operator health and safety.
Content of selenoaminoacids and catechins in Chinese green teas
Authors: Sentkowska Aleksandra
Published: November 2020

In this study, famous Zhejiang teas were evaluated as a well-advertised source of selenium. The 25 samples from provinces around China and Asia were purchased in Warsaw tea shops. The speciation analysis of selenium as well as the evaluation of catechin content in water tea infusions was performed using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (HILIC-MS/MS). It turned out that all of tested samples can be a great source of organic selenium species (no traces of inorganic selenium was found), however, Zhejiang teas did not differ much among others. Such a conclusion can also be drawn when comparing the antioxidant capacity of the tested samples, obtained with the application of four methods (Folin–Ciocalteu method, scavenging of the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical, hydroxyl radical scavenging and cupric reducing ability assay). What is more, no correlation was found between the selenium content and the antioxidant activity of studied teas. The results obtained for the six samples from Zhejiang Province were very varied, which shows that it is very difficult to interpret the results and compare them with the results of other authors.
Inter-muscle differences in modulation of motor evoked potentials and posterior root-muscle reflexes evoked from lower-limb muscles during agonist and antagonist muscle contractions
Authors: Saito Akira , Nakagawa Kento , Masugi Yohei , Nakazawa Kimitaka
Published: November 2020

Voluntary contraction facilitates corticospinal and spinal reflex circuit excitabilities of the contracted muscle and inhibits spinal reflex circuit excitability of the antagonist. It has been suggested that modulation of spinal reflex circuit excitability in agonist and antagonist muscles during voluntary contraction differs among lower-limb muscles. However, whether the effects of voluntary contraction on the excitabilities of corticospinal and spinal reflex circuits depend on the tested muscles remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine inter-muscle differences in modulation of the corticospinal and spinal reflex circuit excitabilities of multiple lower-limb muscles during voluntary contraction. Eleven young males performed isometric plantar-flexion, dorsi-flexion, knee extension, and flexion at low torque levels. Motor evoked potentials (MEPs) and posterior root-muscle reflexes from seven lower-leg and thigh muscles were evoked by transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation, respectively, at rest and during weak voluntary contractions. MEP and posterior root-muscle reflex amplitudes of agonists were significantly increased as agonist torque level increased, except for the reflex of the tibialis anterior. MEP amplitudes of antagonists were significantly increased in relation to the agonist torque level, but those of the rectus femoris were slightly depressed during knee flexion. Regarding the posterior root-muscle reflex of the antagonists, the amplitudes of triceps surae and the hamstrings were significantly decreased, but those of the quadriceps femoris were significantly increased as the agonist torque level increased. These results demonstrate that modulation of corticospinal and spinal reflex circuit excitabilities during agonist and antagonist muscle contractions differed among lower-limb muscles.
“Modern Endovascular Therapy”
Authors: Blecha Matthew , Gahtan Vivian
Published: November 2020

Introduction

The past 25 years have been witness to a revolution in how vascular care is delivered. The majority of arterial and venous interventions have converted from open surgery to minimally invasive percutaneous endovascular procedures.

Methods

This surgical innovations symposium article reviews current endovascular therapy in multiple vascular beds with a primary focus on carotid artery occlusive disease, aortic pathologies, and lower extremity arterial occlusive disease. Mesenteric arterial occlusive disease and lower extremity venous endovascular therapies are also briefly discussed. Indications for intervention, treatment examples and outcomes analysis are presented. While not reviewed in this article, endovascular therapy has also become first line in the treatment of coronary artery disease, chronic mesenteric arterial occlusive disease, superficial venous reflux, central vein occlusion, and acute venous thrombus intervention when indicated.

Conclusion

Endovascular therapies are used in all vascular beds to treat the full spectrum of vascular pathologies. Aneurysm disease, atherosclerotic arterial occlusive disease, acute arterial and venous thrombosis, ongoing hemorrhage, and venous reflux are among the issues which can be addressed by endovascular means. The minimally invasive nature of endovascular treatments in what is largely a very co‐morbid patient cohort is an attractive method of avoiding major procedural related morbidity and mortality.
Measuring proboscis length in Lepidoptera: a review
Authors: Vajna Flóra , Kis János , Szigeti Viktor
Published: November 2020

Mouthpart morphologies relate to diet range. Differences among or within species may result in resource partitioning and speciation. In plant-pollinator interactions, mouthpart length has an important role in foraging efficiency, resource partitioning and pollination, hence measuring nectarivorous insect mouthparts’ morphological variation is important. Most adult lepidopterans feed on nectars and participate in pollination. Although a vast range of studies applied morphometric measurements on lepidopteran proboscis (tongue) length, general recommendations on methodologies are scarce. We review available proboscis length measurement methodologies for Lepidoptera. Focusing on how proboscides have been measured, how accurate the measurements were, and how were these constrained by sampling effort, we searched for research articles investigating lepidopteran proboscis length and extracted variables on the aims of measurements, preparation and measurement methodology, and descriptive statistics. Different methods were used both for preparation and measurements. Many of the 135 reviewed papers did not provide descriptions of the procedures applied. Research aims were different among studies. Forty-four percent of the studies measured dead specimens, 13% measured living specimens, and 43% were unclear. Fifteen percent of the studies used callipers, 9% rulers, 1% millimetre scales, 4% ocular micrometers, 3% drawings and 14% photographs; 55% were non-informative. We emphasise the importance to provide detailed descriptions on the methods applied. Providing guidelines for future sampling and measurements, we encourage fellow researchers planning measurements to take into account the effect of specimen preparation techniques on the results, define landmarks, consider resolution, accuracy, precision, choose an appropriate sample size and report details on methodology.
Machine learning for landslides prevention: a survey
Authors: Ma Zhengjing , Mei Gang , Piccialli Francesco
Published: November 2020

Landslides are one of the most critical categories of natural disasters worldwide and induce severely destructive outcomes to human life and the overall economic system. To reduce its negative effects, landslides prevention has become an urgent task, which includes investigating landslide-related information and predicting potential landslides. Machine learning is a state-of-the-art analytics tool that has been widely used in landslides prevention. This paper presents a comprehensive survey of relevant research on machine learning applied in landslides prevention, mainly focusing on (1) landslides detection based on images, (2) landslides susceptibility assessment, and (3) the development of landslide warning systems. Moreover, this paper discusses the current challenges and potential opportunities in the application of machine learning algorithms for landslides prevention.
Provider confidence in the telemedicine spine evaluation: results from a global study
Authors: Lovecchio Francis , Riew Grant J. , Samartzis Dino , Louie Philip K. , Germscheid Niccole , An Howard S. , Cheung Jason Pui Yin , Chutkan Norman , Mallow Gary Michael , Neva Marko H. , Phillips Frank M. , Sciubba Daniel M. , El-Sharkawi Mohammad , Valacco Marcelo , McCarthy Michael H. , Makhni Melvin C. , Iyer Sravisht
Published: November 2020

Purpose

To utilize data from a global spine surgeon survey to elucidate (1) overall confidence in the telemedicine evaluation and (2) determinants of provider confidence.

Methods

Members of AO Spine International were sent a survey encompassing participant’s experience with, perception of, and comparison of telemedicine to in-person visits. The survey was designed through a Delphi approach, with four rounds of question review by the multi-disciplinary authors. Data were stratified by provider age, experience, telemedicine platform, trust in telemedicine, and specialty.

Results

Four hundred and eighty-five surgeons participated in the survey. The global effort included respondents from Africa (19.9%), Asia Pacific (19.7%), Europe (24.3%), North America (9.4%), and South America (26.6%). Providers felt that physical exam-based tasks (e.g., provocative testing, assessing neurologic deficits/myelopathy, etc.) were inferior to in-person exams, while communication-based aspects (e.g., history taking, imaging review, etc.) were equivalent. Participants who performed greater than 50 visits were more likely to believe telemedicine was at least equivalent to in-person visits in the ability to make an accurate diagnosis (OR 2.37, 95% C.I. 1.03–5.43). Compared to in-person encounters, video (versus phone only) visits were associated with increased confidence in the ability of telemedicine to formulate and communicate a treatment plan (OR 3.88, 95% C.I. 1.71–8.84).

Conclusion

Spine surgeons are confident in the ability of telemedicine to communicate with patients, but are concerned about its capacity to accurately make physical exam-based diagnoses. Future research should concentrate on standardizing the remote examination and the development of appropriate use criteria in order to increase provider confidence in telemedicine technology.
Sagittal imbalance and symptoms of depression in adults: Locomotive Syndrome and Health Outcomes in the Aizu Cohort Study (LOHAS)
Authors: Watanabe Kazuyuki , Otani Koji , Tominaga Ryoji , Kokubun Yoshiyuki , Sekiguchi Miho , Fukuma Shingo , Kamitani Tsukasa , Nikaido Takuya , Kato Kinshi , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Yabuki Shoji , Kikuchi Shin-ichi , Konno Shin-ichi
Published: November 2020

Purpose

With spinal deformities, mental health can deteriorate due to sagittal imbalance of the spine. The purpose of this study was to clarify the relationship between sagittal imbalance and symptoms of depression among local residents in the community.

Methods

This study used data from the Locomotive Syndrome and Health Outcomes in Aizu Cohort Study (LOHAS) in 2010. The sagittal vertical axis (SVA) was identified as an indicator of sagittal imbalance. Symptoms of depression were assessed using the 5-item version of the Mental Health Inventory. Participants were classified into three categories based on the SVA balance as normal (< 40 mm), moderate imbalance (40–95 mm), and severe imbalance (> 95 mm). To evaluate the relationship between sagittal imbalance of the spine and symptoms of depression, the adjusted risk ratio (RR) and the 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using a generalized linear model with Poisson link.

Results

There were 786 participants included in the statistical analysis. Overall, the mean age was 68.1 y (standard deviation, 8.8 y), and 39.4% were men. The prevalence of symptoms of depression by SVA category was 18.6% for normal, 23.8% for moderate, and 40.6% for severe. On multivariate analysis, the RR of SVA for symptoms of depression compared to the normal category was 1.12 (95% CI 0.7–1.70) for the moderate category and 2.29 (95% CI 1.01–5.17) for the severe category.

Conclusion

In local community residents, sagittal imbalance had a significant association with symptoms of depression.