bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical Flow Reactor Design Allows Tunable Mass Transport Conditions for Operando Surface Enhanced Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Avilés Acosta Jaime E. , Lin John C. , Un Lee Dong , Jaramillo Thomas F. , Hahn Christopher
Published: June 2023

In situ attenuated total reflection surface enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy (ATR‐SEIRAS) is often used to investigate the near‐surface electrocatalytic reaction environment. However, there is a gap in directly correlating the near‐surface reaction environment with electrocatalytic reaction rates. To that end, we designed an electrochemical flow reactor for operando electrochemical ATR‐SEIRAS and demonstrate its capability with the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). Roughened gold catalyst thin films are prepared on ATR silicon crystals as a model system to probe local species under CO2RR conditions in 0.1 M KHCO3. We measured changes in the interfacial CO2 concentration as a function of applied potential and electrolyte flow rate in operando, allowing us to correlate the changes in reaction rates with the observed CO2 concentration. Including the choice of the catalyst and electrolyte, coupling hydrodynamic control with ATR‐SEIRAS in this platform enables investigations of how the local microenvironment affects the activity and selectivity of electrochemical reactions.
Phenomenological understanding of Black counselor education students at Predominately White Institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and Hispanic Serving Institutions
Authors: Brooks Michael , Whittaker Tyra Turner , Wang Yudan , Adams Justin , Matthews Tazeur
Published: June 2023

The experiences of Black counseling students at Predominantly White Institutions are well documented. Using a transcendental phenomenological environmental research design, we explored how 12 Black counselor education graduates experienced their respective institutions across three types of academic institutions—Predominantly White Institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and Hispanic Serving Institutions. Three salient themes emerged—(1) exposure, (2) real‐life exposure, and (3) cultural oasis. The researchers also discussed implications for counselor education programs and future research.
Computational fluid dynamics‐based virtual angiograms for the detection of flow stagnation in intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Hadad Sara , Karnam Yogesh , Mut Fernando , Lohner Rainald , Robertson Anne M. , Kaneko Naoki , Cebral Juan R.
Published: June 2023

The goal of this study was to test if CFD‐based virtual angiograms could be used to automatically discriminate between intracranial aneurysms (IAs) with and without flow stagnation. Time density curves (TDC) were extracted from patient digital subtraction angiography (DSA) image sequences by computing the average gray level intensity inside the aneurysm region and used to define injection profiles for each subject. Subject‐specific 3D models were reconstructed from 3D rotational angiography (3DRA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were performed to simulate the blood flow inside IAs. Transport equations were solved numerically to simulate the dynamics of contrast injection into the parent arteries and IAs and then the contrast retention time (RET) was calculated. The importance of gravitational pooling of contrast agent within the aneurysm was evaluated by modeling contrast agent and blood as a mixture of two fluids with different densities and viscosities. Virtual angiograms can reproduce DSA sequences if the correct injection profile is used. RET can identify aneurysms with significant flow stagnation even when the injection profile is not known. Using a small sample of 14 IAs of which seven were previously classified as having flow stagnation, it was found that a threshold RET value of 0.46 s can successfully identify flow stagnation. CFD‐based prediction of stagnation was in more than 90% agreement with independent visual DSA assessment of stagnation in a second sample of 34 IAs. While gravitational pooling prolonged contrast retention time it did not affect the predictive capabilities of RET. CFD‐based virtual angiograms can detect flow stagnation in IAs and can be used to automatically identify aneurysms with flow stagnation even without including gravitational effects on contrast agents.
Complete coverage planning with clustering method for autonomous mobile robots
Authors: Aydemir Hamza , Tekerek Mehmet , Gök Mehmet
Published: June 2023

Complete coverage planning (CCP) is a task to cover the entire area on the map, according to the job description of the autonomous mobile robot. The most widely used method for CCP in the literature is the grid‐based coverage method. In this method, the problem is processing the partially filled cell as completely filled, which reduces the coverage performance. The ability to use the clustering method, which will be created by considering the characteristics of the environment, was determined as a research question to solve this problem. In this direction, it is aimed to use K‐means++ algorithm, which is a widely used clustering algorithm and segmentation technique. In this context, an offline K‐means++ complete coverage planning (Km++CCP) method, in which the navigable area on the map of the indoor where a mobile robot will navigate is clustered using the K‐means++ algorithm and the centroids can be used as waypoints, is proposed. To test the proposed method, 2 simulations and 36 real‐world experiments were conducted. The indoor coverage ratio of Km++CCP was calculated higher than the grid‐based method in all experiments.
A novel image‐based approach for soybean seed phenotyping using machine learning techniques
Authors: Miranda Melissa Cristina de Carvalho , Aono Alexandre Hild , Pinheiro José Baldin
Published: June 2023

Soybean is important for protein and oil worldwide, requiring investments in research and production technology, mainly breeding programs, to meet the increasing demand. Seed morphology, including area, perimeter, and circularity, significantly impacts soybean yield. However, the analysis of these factors has been hindered by the lack of efficient computational approaches that offer accuracy and flexibility to user preferences and needs. This study presents a soybean phenotyping system framework that includes: seed segmentation in soybean images, morphological evaluation, and image‐based prediction of hundred‐seed weight (HSW). We used genotypes from a partial diallel cross design and collected red‐green‐blue images of seeds from each plot. We developed an in‐house image processing pipeline for seed segmentation, which enabled a full morphological evaluation of the seeds. For predicting the HSW, we compared machine learning algorithms using the obtained morphological characteristics as input and features from state‐of‐the‐art convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures. Our image segmentation methodology correctly identified over 98% of the seeds in the images, even when they were in proximity. Our morphological phenotyping approach's adaptability to other plant species was verified, fully demonstrating the pipeline's generalizability. The morphological measurements were effective in predicting the HSW with an accuracy of 0.71 predictive ability and mean squared error (MSE) of 3.15 (mean HSW of 19.74). The same results were observed for CNN features, highlighting the efficiency of the morphological measurements. ResNet‐50 had the most effective feature extraction, with a mean accuracy of 0.60 (MSE of 4.15). Our study can aid automated phenotyping tool development in research and industry.
Activating transcription factor 4 drives the progression of diabetic cardiac fibrosis
Authors: Li Yu , He Qian , He Chao‐Yong , Cai Chao , Chen Zhen , Duan Jing‐Zhu
Published: June 2023

Aims

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DC) is one of serious complications of diabetic patients. This study investigated the biological function of activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) in DC.

Methods and results

Streptozotocin‐treated mice and high glucose (HG)‐exposed HL‐1 cells were used as the in vivo and in vitro models of DC. Myocardial infarction (MI) was induced by left coronary artery ligation in mice. Cardiac functional parameters were detected by echocardiography. Target molecule expression was determined by real time quantitative PCR and western blotting. Cardiac fibrosis was observed by haematoxylin and eosin and Masson's staining. Cardiac apoptosis was evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling. Activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and levels of malonic dialdehyde and reactive oxygen species were used to assess oxidative stress damage. Molecular mechanisms were evaluated by chromatin immunoprecipitation, dual luciferase assay, and co‐immunoprecipitation. ATF4 was up‐regulated in the DC and MI mice (P < 0.01). Down‐regulation of ATF4 improved cardiac function as evidenced by changes in cardiac functional parameters (P < 0.01), inhibited myocardial collagen I (P < 0.001) and collagen III (P < 0.001) expression, apoptosis (P < 0.001), and oxidative stress (P < 0.001) in diabetic mice. Collagen I (P < 0.01) and collagen III (P < 0.01) expression was increased in MI mice, which was reversed by ATF4 silencing (P < 0.05). ATF4 depletion enhanced viability (P < 0.01), repressed apoptosis (P < 0.001), oxidative damage (P < 0.001), and collagen I (P < 0.001), and collagen III (P < 0.001) expression of HG‐stimulated HL‐1 cells. ATF4 transcriptionally activated Smad ubiquitin regulatory factor 2 (Smurf2, P < 0.001) to promote ubiquitination and degradation of homeodomain interacting protein kinase‐2 (P < 0.001) and subsequently caused inactivation of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 pathway (P < 0.001). The inhibitory effects of ATF4 silencing on HG‐induced apoptosis (P < 0.01), oxidative injury (P < 0.01), collagen I (P < 0.001), and collagen III (P < 0.001) expression were reversed by Smurf2 overexpression.

Conclusions

ATF4 facilitates diabetic cardiac fibrosis and oxidative stress by promoting Smurf2‐mediated ubiquitination and degradation of homeodomain interacting protein kinase‐2 and then inactivation of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 pathway, suggesting ATF4 as a treatment target for DC.
Cost‐utility analysis of add‐on dapagliflozin in heart failure with preserved or mildly reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Tang Yi , Sang Haiqiang
Published: June 2023

Aims

The DELIVER study demonstrates a significant improvement in cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure among heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF) or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).Cost‐utility of the adjunct use of dapagliflozin to standard therapy among patients with HFpEF or HFmrEF remains unclear.

Methods and results

A five‐state Markov mode was constructed to project health and clinical outcomes of the adjunct use of dapagliflozin to standard therapy among 65‐year‐old patients with HFpEF or HFmrEF. A cost‐utility analysis was performed based on the DELIVER study and national statistical database. The cost and utility was inflated to 2022 by the usual discount rate of 5%. The primary outcomes were total cost and quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs) per patients as well as the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio. Sensitivity analyses were also applied. Over a 15 year lifetime horizon, the average cost per patient was $7245.77 and $5407.55 in the dapagliflozin group and the standard group, along with an incremental cost of $1838.22. The average QALYs per patient was 6.00 QALYs and 5.84 QALYs in the dapagliflozin group and the standard group, along with an incremental QALYs of 0.15 QALYs, resulting in the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of $11 865.33/QALY, which was below the willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) of $12 652.5/QALY. The univariate sensitivity analysis indicated the cardiovascular death in both group was the most sensitive variable. Probability sensitivity analysis revealed that when the WTP thresholds were $12 652.5/QALY and $37 957.5/QALY, the probabilities of being cost‐effective with dapagliflozin as an add‐on were 54.6% and 71.6%, respectively.

Conclusions

From a public healthcare system perspective, the adjunct use of dapagliflozin to standard therapy among patients with HFpEF or HFmrEF generated advantages in cost‐effectiveness in China at a WTP of $12 652.5/QALY, which promoted the rational use of dapagliflozin for heart failure.
Effect of solvation shell structure on thermopower of liquid redox pairs
Authors: Chen Yuchi , Huang Qiangqiang , Liu Te‐Huan , Qian Xin , Yang Ronggui
Published: June 2023

Developing redox electrolytes with high thermopower is the key to making efficient thermogalvanic batteries for harvesting low‐grade heat. This work applies molecular dynamics simulations to predict the thermopower (i.e. thermogalvanic temperature coefficient) of the redox pairs Fe(CN)63−/Fe(CN)64− and Fe3+/Fe2+, showing excellent agreement with experimental values. We showed that of the Fe3+/Fe2+ redox pair can be increased from 1.70.4 mV/K to 3.80.5 mV/K with the increased acetone to water fraction. We discovered a significant change in the variance of solvent dipole orientation between Fe3+ and Fe2+, which can serve as a microscopic indicator for large . In mixed acetone‐water solvent, of Fe3+/Fe2+ showed a rapid increase at high acetone fractions, due to the intercalation of acetone molecules into the first solvation shell of the Fe2+ at high acetone fractions. Our discovery provides insights into how solvation shell order can be engineered to develop electrolytes with high .

image
Studies on the efficiency of fish scale adsorbents for treatment of fish processing effluent
Authors: Devasena S. Subhashree , Padmavathy P. , Rani V. , Ganesan P. , Pereira J. Jaculine
Published: June 2023

Pollution of water by organic and inorganic contaminants is a serious environmental issue. The primary emphasis of this present investigation was to reduce wastewater pollution and environmental burden related to fish waste disposal. Prime pollutant parameters such as biological oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) in fish processing effluent were treated by adsorbents produced from waste fish scales viz., dried fish scale adsorbent and fish scale biochar. A control was used and the entire study was carried out in batch mode to assess the influence of adsorbent dosage levels, contact time, and pH conditions. The experiments revealed that prepared fish scale biochar was as effective as control in achieving a significant (p < 0.05) reduction of BOD (87%) and COD (84%) at 150 min treatment time with 0.24 and 0.48 g dosage level. The optimum pH range was found to be 6–8. The experimental data fitted well with pseudo‐second‐order and Langmuir isotherm models (R2 > 0.911). The influence of intraparticle diffusion in adsorption treatment was tested with Weber–Morris plot. The experiments were done in triplicate and all data were statistically tested using MS Excel, IBM SPSS (version 26), and OriginPro software packages.
Tropical cyclone risk to global mangrove ecosystems: potential future regional shifts
Authors: Mo Yu , Simard Marc , Hall Jim W
Published: June 2023

Tropical cyclones pose a major risk to mangroves, yet the evolution of risk in response to altered cyclone activity under climate change remains largely unexplored. Analyzing 1886 tropical cyclones (1980–2020), we found that mangrove ecosystems were most prone to major cyclones (Category 3–5), and that intense cyclones (Category 4–5) contributed 97% of the global risk of damage. Risk hotspots were found in mangroves bordering the Gulf of Mexico/Caribbean Sea, the South Indian Ocean, and the Northwest Pacific. With warming of 2°C, the risk changes were projected to be modest (+3%) at the global scale but substantial and divergent at the regional level. Risk in North America (including Central America) and Oceania was predicted to increase and decrease by more than 10%, respectively. Our results identify regions where cyclone‐activity‐induced ecosystem changes may be expected and where mangrove management needs to prioritize cyclone resilience.
Food losses, food waste, and beyond in food supply chains: Retaining optimum nutrient density
Authors: Eastham Jane , Creedon Annette
Published: June 2023

“Food systems” as a concept draws upon systems thinking and facilitates a transdisciplinary approach to address the complexity of delivering the Sustainable Development Goals in developed and developing food regimes. Extant literature has used a food supply chain/systems approach to evaluate sources of food loss and waste (FLW) and their impact on food accessibility and therefore nutrient availability. The maximization of nutrients available to a growing global population is a critical aspect in the sustainable agenda and it is acknowledged that the continued augmentation of food produce is no longer the sole solution. However, there is a drive for greater efficiency, not simply in the resources deployed, but in the utilization of the food produced. This paper argues that FLW are not the only sources of nutrient loss within a supply chain and that there is a loss of nutrient density as the food progresses through the supply chain with the deterioration of nutrients in food within the food supply chain. It is argued here that in parallel to the management of loss and waste, there is a further need for a research agenda to explore the reality of loss of nutrient density holistically as it passes from farm to fork, building on the existing scientific research at each tier within the supply chain.
The use of hydrogel structures in production of extruded rice and investigation of its qualitative characteristics
Authors: Naji‐Tabasi Sara , Shahidi‐Noghabi Mostafa , Modiri Dovom Atena , Davtalab Maryam
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the quality parameters of extruded rice containing hydrogel and comparing with natural rice (Hashemi variety rice). Extruded rice was produced with composite hydrogel (gellan, xanthan and sodium alginate) at the concentrations of 0.0 (control sample), gellan (0.5%)‐alginate (0.5%) (GA1), gellan (1%)‐alginate (1%) (GA2), gellan (0.5%)‐alginate (0.5%)‐xanthan (0.1%) (GAX 1%), and gellan (1%)‐alginate (1%)‐xanthan (0.2%) (GAX2%). The use of hydrogels had no significant effect on moisture content, ash content, cooking time, and color properties of extruded rice (p ≥ .05). In contrast, hydrogel significantly increased water absorption ratio (WAR), water solubility index (WSI), water absorption index (WAI), and textural properties (p ˂ .05) of extruded rice. This observation supports the highest score found for extruded rice containing GA2% and GAX2% in sensory properties, which were similar to natural rice. GA2% rice sample showed the similar texture characteristic, cooking feature, and color parameter to natural rice, ultimately, showing better organoleptic properties.
Protective potential of fresh orange juice against zinc oxide nanoparticles‐induced trans‐placental and trans‐generational toxicity in mice
Authors: Ara Chaman , Andleeb Shagufta , Ali Shaukat , Majeed Barirah , Iqbal Asia , Arshad Madeeha , Chaudhary Asma , Asmatullah   , Muzamil Aliza
Published: June 2023

Due to the emerging applications of nanoparticles, human exposure to nanoparticles is unavoidable, particularly to zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), owing to their wide range of usage. The ongoing study aimed to evaluate trans‐generational toxic potential of ZnO NPs through exposure to F0 mothers, in F1 pups and F1 mature offspring and the protective potential of fresh orange juice (OJ). Twenty‐eight F0 mothers were randomly allocated into four groups (n = 7), control; untreated, dose group; exposed to ZnO NPs, dose+antidote group; coadministered ZnO NPs + OJ, antidote group; OJ, during the organogenetic period. Fifty percent of F0 mothers were subjected to cesarean sections on the 18th day of gestation and F1 pups were recovered, macro‐photographed, and dissected for liver evisceration, while 50% of F0 mothers underwent standard delivery. After parturition, F1 offspring were examined, and the liver and blood samples were extracted. Observations showed that ZnO NPs exposure in F0 mothers in preparturition and postparturition resulted in decreased body weight, increased liver weight, and elevated levels of ALT and AST significantly p ≤ .05 as compared to the control and antidote groups. Histopathological analysis of maternal livers intoxicated with NPs showed the disruptive structure of central vein, hepatocytes, and Kupffer cells in F0 mothers, while F1 pups showed morphological deviations and distorted development of the liver tissue and congestion, in contrast to the control. F1 offspring of NPs exposed mothers, even at postnatal week 8 showed pyknotic nuclei and activated Kupffer cells in the liver sections against control. But in the case of the Dose+antidote group, alterations were less severe than in the dose group. It can be concluded that exposure to ZnO NPs instigates teratogenicity and hepatotoxicity in F1 pups, F0 mothers, and F1 offspring, respectively, while fresh orange juice acts as a remedial agent against the abovementioned toxicities.
Dementia, Sex, and Consent: Beyond the Uncomplicated Cases
Authors: Gross Jed Adam , Tenenbaum Evelyn M.
Published: June 2023

This commentary responds to Samuel Director's article “Dementia and Concurrent Consent to Sexual Relations,” in the May‐June 2023 issue of the Hastings Center Report. In the article, Director sets out a set of conditions for sexual consent after one partner in a committed, long‐term relationship develops dementia. While we share Director's view that dementia patients should not be categorically cut off from sexual intimacy, we caution against the use of his approach as a rigid test for allowing sexual activity. Director's analysis does not address the full range of plausibly permissible sexual relationships, which is unfortunate, as intimacy has consistently been linked to physical and psychological well‐being. Moreover, because decisions about sex often carry moral and emotional overtones, we propose that a dementia patient's prior values should sometimes be considered by caregivers in a measured way.
A multimode‐fused sensory memory system based on a robust self‐assembly nanoscaffolded BaTiO3:Eu2O3 memristor
Authors: Yan Xiaobing , Zhang Yinxing , Fang Ziliang , Sun Yong , Liu Pan , Sun Jiameng , Jia Xiaotong , Sun Shiqing , Guo Zhenqiang , Zhao Zhen
Published: June 2023

Biologically inspired neuromorphic sensory memory systems based on memristor have received a lot of attention in the booming artificial intelligence industry due to significant potential to effectively process multi‐sensory signals from complex external environments. However, many memristors have significant switching parameters disperse, which is a great challenge for using memristors in bionic neuromorphic sensory memory systems. Herein, a stable ferroelectric memristor based on the Pd/BaTiO3:Eu2O3/La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 grown on Silicon structure with SrTiO3 as buffer layer is presented. The device possesses low coercive field voltage (−1.3–2.1 V) and robust endurance characteristic (~1010 cycles) through optimizing the growth temperature. More importantly, an ultra‐stable artificial multimodal sensory memory system with visual and tactile functions was reported for the first time by combining a pressure sensor, a photosensitive sensor, and a robotic arm. Utilizing the above system, the sensitivity value of the system is expressed by the conductance of the memristor to realize the gradual change of external stimulus, and multi signals inputs at the same time to this system have faithfully achieved sensory adaptation to multimodal sensors. This work paves the way for future development of memristor‐based perception systems in efficient multisensory neural robots.

image
Circ_001422 aggravates osteosarcoma progression through targeting miR‐497‐5p/E2F3 axis
Authors: Li Xinyu , Zhao Xin , Li Jin , Zhang Xiaozhan
Published: June 2023

Circular RNAs exert vital functions in the pathogenesis of osteosarcoma (OS). Circ_001422 has been confirmed to be involved in regulating OS progression, but its specific mechanism has not been clearly studied. This work aimed to analyze circ_001422's role in OS cell biological behaviors and the possible molecular mechanisms. This work carried out reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction for detecting circ_001422, E2F3 and miR‐497‐5p levels, whereas Cell counting kit‐8 together with Transwell assays for measuring cell growth, migration as well as invasion abilities. Relation of miR‐497‐5p with E2F3, as well as circ_001422 with miR‐497‐5p was analyzed through dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay. Protein level was identified by western blot. According to our results, circ_001422 expression within OS tissue significantly increased compared with corresponding healthy samples. Inhibition of circ_001422 significantly decreased OS cell growth, invasion and migration. From mechanism research, miR‐497‐5p was proved as circ_001422's target, and E2F3 was miR‐497‐5p's target. Besides, miR‐497‐5p downregulation or E2F3 overexpression abolished circ_001422 inhibition‐mediated inhibition on OS cell proliferation, invasion and migration. Collectively, this study has first suggested circ_001422's role in enhancing OS proliferation, migration as well as invasion via miR‐497‐5p/E2F3 axis. Our results will offer new ideas and new anti‐OS targets.
The production of highly efficientvisible‐light‐driven electrospunα‐Fe2O3photocatalyst through modifying iron source material for wastewater treatment applications
Authors: Alp Emre , Borazan İsmail
Published: June 2023

Background

Heterogeneous photocatalysis has been considered one of the most attractive methods in the wastewater remediation process due to allowing continuous re‐use, the reactions taking place at room temperature, and photocatalysts are inexpensive.

Objective

With the optimization of the structural properties of hematite at the nanometer level by utilizing engineering strategies such as morphology regulation, and shape control, it is possible to enhance its photocatalytic performance. The study's main objective is to improve photocatalytic performances of visible‐light photoactive hematite materials produced by engineering strategies.

Methods

The α‐Fe2O3photocatalyst fibres with highly porous were fabricated by electrospinning method, allowing extraordinary length, a large ratio of length to diameter, hierarchically porous structure, high surface area, small grain sizes, and high porosity.

Results

In the heterogeneous photocatalysis of the electrospun α‐Fe2O3nanofibers against two model dyes representing anionic (MO) and cationic (RhB) characteristics, both electrospun α‐Fe2O3nanofibers showed good photocatalytic activity against used model pollutants. The α‐ α‐Fe2O3nanofibers produced using iron(III) chloride hexahydrate exhibited a higher photocatalytic degradation rate against both dye pollutants relative to the α‐ α‐Fe2O3nanofibers produced using iron(III) chloride.

Conclusions

Depending on the used iron sources and associatively their final morphological characteristics, it was observed that their photocatalytic degradation performances were seriously affected. It is suggested that electrospun α‐Fe2O3nanofibers, especially those with highly porous and smaller diameters, are suitable candidates as a visible‐light‐driven semiconductor material to use in advanced oxidation processes for removing pollutants from wastewater.
Effects of biochar addition on anaerobic co‐digestion of sewage sludge and swine manure: copper immobilization and digestion performance
Authors: Ma Wucheng , Han Rui , Zhu Liang , Chen Lin
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

A significant concentration of the heavy metal Cu is found in sludge and swine manure, and excessive agricultural use of Cu can seriously inhibit plant growth. There is a critical need for an effective technology to address the issue of biotoxicity.

RESULTS

This study aimed to immobilize heavy metal Cu and decrease its bioavailability by adding biochar for anaerobic co‐digestion (AcoD) with swine manure and sludge. Coconut shell biochar (CSB), bamboo biochar (BC) and fruit shell biochar (FSB) were prepared by pyrolysis based on coconut shell, bamboo and fruit shell as precursors. Anaerobic co‐digestion experiments were designed (sludge inoculation ratio: 20% of working volume), a biochar dosing ratio of 5% (dry weight of swine manure) and the effects on Cu immobilization and biogas production performance were investigated. CSB had a larger specific surface area (765.2 m2 g−1) and more abundant surface functional groups (CO, CO, OCO, OH) than BC and FSB. CSB treatment demonstrated that the ultimate cumulative biogas production was 360.27 mL g−1 volatile solid – 76.30% higher than the control (no addition). CSB addition decreased the amount of diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid‐extractable Cu to 19.75 mg kg−1 (immobilizing 75%). The correlation between environmental factors (pH, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, total organic carbon) and Cu immobilization was verified by redundancy analysis, and a positive correlation was revealed between phosphorus content and the Cu immobilization effect.

CONCLUSION

This article presented comparative biochar research and contributed to assessing the environmental risk of Cu in anaerobic digestion. It guided the application of biochar for the treatment of heavy metal pollution. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron (B.1.1.529) infection in rhesus macaques, hamsters, and BALB/c mice with severe lung histopathological damage
Authors: Yu Wenhai , Wang Junbin , Yang Yun , Tang Cong , Yang Chengyun , Li Bai , Wang Haixuan , Zhou Yanan , Huang Qing , Yang Hao , Wu Daoju , Luo Zhiwu , Gao Jiahong , Kuang Dexuan , Long Haiting , Peng Xiaozhong , Xie Zhongping , Lu Shuaiyao
Published: June 2023

Since the first SARS‐CoV‐2 outbreak in late 2019, the SARS‐CoV‐2 genome has harbored multiple mutations, especially spike protein mutations. The currently fast‐spreading Omicron variant that manifests without symptoms or with upper respiratory diseases has been recognized as a serious global public health problem. However, its pathological mechanism is largely unknown. In this work, rhesus macaques, hamsters, and BALB/C mice were employed as animal models to explore the pathogenesis of Omicron (B.1.1.529). Notably, Omicron (B.1.1.529) infected the nasal turbinates, tracheae, bronchi, and lungs of hamsters and BALB/C mice with higher viral loads than in those of rhesus macaques. Severe histopathological damage and inflammatory responses were observed in the lungs of Omicron (B.1.1.529)‐infected animals. In addition, viral replication was found in multiple extrapulmonary organs. Results indicated that hamsters and BALB/c mice are potential animal models for studies on the development of drugs/vaccines and therapies for Omicron (B.1.1.529).
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of long‐term sequelae of COVID‐19 2‐year after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: A call to action for neurological, physical, and psychological sciences
Authors: Rahmati Masoud , Udeh Raphael , Yon Dong Keon , Lee Seung Won , Dolja‐Gore Xenia , McEVoy Mark , Kenna Tony , Jacob Louis , López Sánchez Guillermo F. , Koyanagi Ai , Shin Jae Il , Smith Lee
Published: June 2023

Long‐term sequelae conditions of COVID‐19 at least 2‐year following SARS‐CoV‐2 infection are unclear and little is known about their prevalence, longitudinal trajectory, and potential risk factors. Therefore, we conducted a comprehensive meta‐analysis of survivors' health‐related consequences and sequelae at 2‐year following SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. PubMed/MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and EMBASE were systematically searched up to February 10, 2023. A systematic review and meta‐analysis were performed to calculate the pooled effect size, expressed as event rate (ER) with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) of each outcome. Twelve studies involving 1 289 044 participants from 11 countries were included. A total of 41.7% of COVID‐19 survivors experienced at least one unresolved symptom and 14.1% were unable to return to work at 2‐year after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. The most frequent symptoms and investigated findings at 2‐year after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were fatigue (27.4%; 95% CI 17%–40.9%), sleep difficulties (25.1%; 95% CI 22.4%–27.9%), impaired diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (24.6%; 95% CI 10.8%–46.9%), hair loss (10.2%; 95% CI 7.3%–14.2%), and dyspnea (10.1%; 95% CI 4.3%–21.9%). Individuals with severe infection suffered more from anxiety (OR = 1.69, 95% CI 1.17–2.44) and had more impairments in forced vital capacity (OR = 9.70, 95% CI 1.94–48.41), total lung capacity (OR = 3.51, 95% CI 1.77–6.99), and residual volume (OR = 3.35, 95% CI 1.85–6.07) after recovery. Existing evidence suggest that participants with a higher risk of long‐term sequelae were older, mostly female, had pre‐existing medical comorbidities, with more severe status, underwent corticosteroid therapy, and higher inflammation at acute infection. Our findings suggest that 2‐year after recovery from SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, 41.7% of survivors still suffer from either neurological, physical, and psychological sequela. These findings indicate that there is an urgent need to preclude persistent or emerging long‐term sequelae and provide intervention strategies to reduce the risk of long COVID.
Outcomes in elderly patients undergoing hepatic resection compared to ablative therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ahmed Fasih A. , Khan Sameer A. , Hafeez Muhammad S. , Jehan Faisal S. , Aziz Hassan
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives

Hepatic resection is an excellent option in the care of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Elderly patients often forego hepatic resection in favor of liver‐directed ablative therapies due to the increased likelihood of adverse postoperative outcomes due to age. We sought to determine long‐term outcomes in patients who underwent hepatic resection compared to liver‐directed ablative therapy in this patient population.

Methods

We queried the National Cancer Database for elderly patients (≥70 years) diagnosed with HCC between 2004 and 2018. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS) computed using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazard regression.

Results

A total of 10 032 patients were included in this analysis. On unadjusted analysis (p < 0.001) as well as multivariable analysis (hazard ratio: 0.65, 95% confidence interval: 0.57–0.73), hepatic resection was associated with improved OS. The protective association between hepatic resection and OS persisted after 1:1 propensity score matching.

Conclusions

Hepatic resection is associated with improved survival for well‐selected elderly patients with HCC. While age is often thought of as influencing the decision to offer surgery, our study, in combination with others, demonstrates that it should not. Instead, other objective indicators of performance and functional status may be considered.
Environmental controls on density‐based soil organic carbon fractionations in global terrestrial ecosystems
Authors: Sun Xiaolu , Ryan Michael G. , Tang Zuoxin , Wang Bisheng , Fang Quanxiao , Sun Osbert Jianxin
Published: June 2023

Categorization of soil organic carbon (SOC) into different functional subpools according to their recalcitrance and protective mechanisms helps better understand ecosystems organic carbon (OC) dynamics, and various attempts have been made to explore the suitable experimental fractionation method for such purpose. However, most previous studies neglected the influences of environmental factors on the effectiveness of varying fractionation methods. Density fractionation has shown great promise in elucidating SOC immobilization mechanisms. Here, we compared three varying types of density fractionation methods (density, density + dispersion, and density + other procedures) for categorizing the SOC into three functional pools, that is, active OC (OCactive), moderately stable OC (OCm‐stable), and stable OC, (OCstable) using global data compiled for 95 sites in 31 published studies, and examined the influences of climate (mean annual temperature [MAT] and annual precipitation), vegetation type, and soil properties (soil depth, clay content, and soil type) on SOC fractions determined by the three density fractionation methods. The percentage of OCm‐stable fraction was found to be highest using the density method and lowest using the density + dispersion method, due to differential density ranges between the two methods. At a global scale, the contents of total SOC and its OC fractions decreased with temperature. Precipitation had no apparent influences on the subdivided SOC fractions using either the density + dispersion method or the method of density + other procedures, whereas soil type constrained the effect of precipitation on SOC fractions using the density method. The percentage of OCm‐stable determined by the density + dispersion method was more responsive to MAT and vegetation type than that by the other two methods. The percentage of OCstable determined by the method of density + other procedures was significantly and positively related to the clay content as the OCstable based on this method included small particles. For all the three methods of fractionation, soil type had a greater influence than the clay content on the SOC fractions, especially the OCm‐stable and the OCstable. For soil type characterized by rich metal oxides, both the density method and the method of density + other procedures could be used for SOC fractionation. For soil type rich in nutrients, the density + dispersion method would have higher sensitivity for distinguishing the OCm‐stable.
Banach–Stone theorems for algebras of holomorphic germs on spaces with the approximation property
Authors: Vieira Daniela M.
Published: June 2023

It is shown that if and are balanced compact determining subsets of separable Banach spaces with the approximation property, then the algebras of holomorphic germs and are topologically algebra isomorphic if, and only if, and (the polynomial convex hulls of K and L) are biholomorphically equivalent.
Fluid–rigid body interaction in a compressible electrically conducting fluid
Authors: Scherz Jan
Published: June 2023

We consider a system of multiple insulating rigid bodies moving inside of an electrically conducting compressible fluid. In this system, we take into account the interaction of the fluid with the bodies as well as with the electromagnetic fields trespassing both the fluid and the solids. The main result of this paper yields the existence of weak solutions to the system. While the mechanical part of the problem can be dealt with via a classical penalization method, the electromagnetic part requires an approximation by means of a hybrid discrete–continuous in time system: The discrete part of the approximation enables us to handle the solution‐dependent test functions in our variational formulation of the induction equation, whereas the continuous part makes sure that the nonnegativity of the density and subsequently a meaningful energy inequality is preserved in the approximate system.
Analysis of triacylglycerol and phospholipid sn‐positional isomers by liquid chromatographic and mass spectrometric methodologies
Authors: Fabritius Mikael , Yang Baoru
Published: June 2023

Analysis of triacylglycerol (TG) and phospholipid sn‐positional isomers can be divided into two main categories: (a) direct separation by chromatography or other means such as ion mobility mass spectrometry and (b) quantification of regioisomer ratios by structurally informative fragment ions with mass spectrometric methods. Due to long retention times and limited performance, researchers are moving away from direct chromatographic separation of isomers, using mass spectrometry instead. Many established analytical methods are targeting specific isomers of interest instead of untargeted analysis of comprehensive profiles of regioisomers. Challenges remain arising from the large number of isobaric and isomeric lipid species in natural samples, often overlapping chromatographically and sharing structurally informative fragment ions. Further, fragmentation of glycerolipids is influenced by the nature of the attached fatty acids, and the lack of available regiopure standards is still an obstacle for establishing calibration curves required for accurate quantification of regioisomers. Additionally, throughput of many methods is still quite limited. Optimization algorithms and fragmentation models are useful especially for analysis of TG regioisomers, as identification using calibration curves alone without proper separation is difficult with complex samples.
Convergence of numerical solution for the inhomogeneous Landau‐Lifshitz equations with Gilbert damping
Authors: Liu Le , Song Wenjing , Yang Ganshan
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we discuss the inhomogeneous Landau‐Lifshitz equation with nonuniform Gilbert damping term by numerical method. First, we establish a semi‐discrete form for the inhomogeneous Landau‐Lifshitz equation with nonuniform Gilbert damping, which is continuous in time. Then we study the temporal discretization. It proposes a simple projection method to solve our issue. Finally, we prove that it is unconditionally stable.
Some results concerning Riesz–Bessel transforms of high order
Authors: Kaya Esra
Published: June 2023

In the present study, we introduce the sharp function related to the Laplace–Bessel differential operator and investigate its properties on the variable Lebesgue spaces. Moreover, we obtain that Riesz–Bessel transforms of high order are bounded on variable Lebesgue spaces
.
A novel calorimeter for synchrotron produced monochromatic x‐ray beams
Authors: El Gamal Islam , Dessureault Jean , McEwen Malcolm R.
Published: June 2023

Background

Electron synchrotrons produce x‐ray beams with dose rates orders of magnitude greater than conventional x‐ray tubes and with beam sizes on the order of a few millimeters. These characteristics put severe challenges on current dosimeters to accurately realize absorbed dose or air kerma.

Purpose

This work seeks to investigate the suitability of a novel aluminum‐based calorimeter to determine absorbed dose to water with an uncertainty significantly smaller than currently possible with conventional detectors. A lower uncertainty in the determination of absolute dose rate would impact both therapeutic applications of synchrotron‐produced x‐ray beams and research investigations.

Methods

A vacuum‐based calorimeter prototype with an aluminum core was built, matching the beam profile of the 140 keV monochromatic x‐ray beam, produced by the Canadian Light Source Biomedical Imaging and Therapy beamline. The choice of material and overall calorimeter design was optimized using FEM thermal modeling software while Monte Carlo radiation transport simulations were used to model the impact of interactions of the radiation beam with the detector components.

Results

Corrections for both the thermal conduction and radiation transport effects were of the order of 3% and the simplicity of the geometry, combined with the monochromatic nature of the incident x‐ray beam, meant that the uncertainty in each correction was ≤0.5%. The calorimeter performance was found to be repeatable over multiple irradiations of 1 Gy at the ± 0.6% level, and no systematic dependence on environmental effects or total dose was observed.

Conclusion

The combined standard uncertainty in the determination of absorbed dose to aluminum was estimated to be 0.8%, indicating that absorbed dose to water, the ultimate quantity of interest, could be determined with an uncertainty on the order of 1%. This value is an improvement over current techniques used for synchrotron dosimetry and comparable with the state‐of‐the art for conventional kV x‐ray dosimetry.
Dynamic lung water MRI during exercise stress
Authors: Seemann Felicia , Javed Ahsan , Khan Jaffar M. , Bruce Christopher G. , Chae Rachel , Yildirim Dursun Korel , Potersnak Amanda , Wang Haiyan , Baute Scott , Ramasawmy Rajiv , Lederman Robert J. , Campbell‐Washburn Adrienne E.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Exercise‐induced dyspnea caused by lung water is an early heart failure symptom. Dynamic lung water quantification during exercise is therefore of interest to detect early stage disease. This study developed a time‐resolved 3D MRI method to quantify transient lung water dynamics during rest and exercise stress.

Methods

The method was evaluated in 15 healthy subjects and 2 patients with heart failure imaged in transitions between rest and exercise, and in a porcine model of dynamic extravascular lung water accumulation through mitral regurgitation (n = 5). Time‐resolved images were acquired at 0.55T using a continuous 3D stack‐of‐spirals proton density weighted sequence with 3.5 mm isotropic resolution, and derived using a motion corrected sliding‐window reconstruction with 90‐s temporal resolution in 20‐s increments. A supine MRI‐compatible pedal ergometer was used for exercise. Global and regional lung water density (LWD) and percent change in LWD (ΔLWD) were automatically quantified.

Results

A ΔLWD increase of 3.3 ± 1.5% was achieved in the animals. Healthy subjects developed a ΔLWD of 7.8 ± 5.0% during moderate exercise, peaked at 16 ± 6.8% during vigorous exercise, and remained unchanged over 10 min at rest (−1.4 ± 3.5%, p = 0.18). Regional LWD were higher posteriorly compared the anterior lungs (rest: 33 ± 3.7% vs 20 ± 3.1%, p < 0.0001; peak exercise: 36 ± 5.5% vs 25 ± 4.6%, p < 0.0001). Accumulation rates were slower in patients than healthy subjects (2.0 ± 0.1%/min vs 2.6 ± 0.9%/min, respectively), whereas LWD were similar at rest (28 ± 10% and 28 ± 2.9%) and peak exercise (ΔLWD 17 ± 10% vs 16 ± 6.8%).

Conclusion

Lung water dynamics can be quantified during exercise using continuous 3D MRI and a sliding‐window image reconstruction.
Cellular Exchange Imaging (CEXI): Evaluation of a diffusion model including water exchange in cells using numerical phantoms of permeable spheres
Authors: Gardier Rémy , Villarreal Haro Juan Luis , Canales‐Rodríguez Erick J. , Jelescu Ileana O. , Girard Gabriel , Rafael‐Patiño Jonathan , Thiran Jean‐Philippe
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Biophysical models of diffusion MRI have been developed to characterize microstructure in various tissues, but existing models are not suitable for tissue composed of permeable spherical cells. In this study we introduce Cellular Exchange Imaging (CEXI), a model tailored for permeable spherical cells, and compares its performance to a related Ball & Sphere (BS) model that neglects permeability.

Methods

We generated DW‐MRI signals using Monte‐Carlo simulations with a PGSE sequence in numerical substrates made of spherical cells and their extracellular space for a range of membrane permeability. From these signals, the properties of the substrates were inferred using both BS and CEXI models.

Results

CEXI outperformed the impermeable model by providing more stable estimates cell size and intracellular volume fraction that were diffusion time‐independent. Notably, CEXI accurately estimated the exchange time for low to moderate permeability levels previously reported in other studies (). However, in highly permeable substrates (), the estimated parameters were less stable, particularly the diffusion coefficients.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of modeling the exchange time to accurately quantify microstructure properties in permeable cellular substrates. Future studies should evaluate CEXI in clinical applications such as lymph nodes, investigate exchange time as a potential biomarker of tumor severity, and develop more appropriate tissue models that account for anisotropic diffusion and highly permeable membranes.