bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating growth and survival models for flexible estimation of size‐dependent survival in a cryptic, endangered snake
Authors: Rose Jonathan P. , Kim Richard , Schoenig Elliot J. , Lien Patrick C. , Halstead Brian J.
Published: April 2022

Estimates of demographic rates for animal populations and individuals have many applications for ecological and conservation research. In many animals, survival is size‐dependent, but estimating the form of the size–survival relationship presents challenges. For elusive species with low recapture rates, individuals’ size will be unknown at many points in time. Integrating growth and capture–mark–recapture models in a Bayesian framework empowers researchers to impute missing size data, with uncertainty, and include size as a covariate of survival, capture probability, and presence on‐site. If there is no theoretical expectation for the shape of the size–survival relationship, spline functions can allow for fitting flexible, data‐driven estimates. We use long‐term capture–mark–recapture data from the endangered San Francisco gartersnake (Thamnophis sirtalis tetrataenia) to fit an integrated growth–survival model. Growth models showed that females reach longer asymptotic lengths than males and that the magnitude of sexual size dimorphism differed among populations. The capture probability and availability of San Francisco gartersnakes for capture increased with snout–vent length. The survival rate of female snakes exhibits a nonlinear relationship with snout–vent length (SVL), with survival flat between 300 mm and 550 mm SVL before decreasing for females between 550 mm and 700 mm SVL. For male snakes, survival decreased for adult males >550 mm SVL. The survival rates of the smallest and largest San Francisco gartersnakes were highly uncertain because recapture rates were very low for these sizes. By integrating growth and survival models and using penalized splines, we found support for size‐dependent survival in San Francisco gartersnakes. Our results have applications for devising management activities for this endangered subspecies, and our methods could be applied broadly to the study of size‐dependent demography among animals.
Main roads and land cover shaped the genetic structure of a Mediterranean island wild boar population
Authors: Lecis Roberta , Dondina Olivia , Orioli Valerio , Biosa Daniela , Canu Antonio , Fabbri Giulia , Iacolina Laura , Cossu Antonio , Bani Luciano , Apollonio Marco , Scandura Massimo
Published: April 2022

Patterns of genetic differentiation within and among animal populations might vary due to the simple effect of distance or landscape features hindering gene flow. An assessment of how landscape connectivity affects gene flow can help guide management, especially in fragmented landscapes. Our objective was to analyze population genetic structure and landscape genetics of the native wild boar (Sus scrofa meridionalis) population inhabiting the island of Sardinia (Italy), and test for the existence of Isolation‐by‐Distance (IBD), Isolation‐by‐Barrier (IBB), and Isolation‐by‐Resistance (IBR). A total of 393 Sardinian wild boar samples were analyzed using a set of 16 microsatellite loci. Signals of genetic introgression from introduced non‐native wild boars or from domestic pigs were revealed by a Bayesian cluster analysis including 250 reference individuals belonging to European wild populations and domestic breeds. After removal of introgressed individuals, genetic structure in the population was investigated by different statistical approaches, supporting a partition into five discrete subpopulations, corresponding to five geographic areas on the island: north‐west (NW), central west (CW), south‐west (SW), north‐central east (NCE), and south‐east (SE). To test the IBD, IBB, and IBR hypotheses, we optimized resistance surfaces using genetic algorithms and linear mixed‐effects models with a maximum likelihood population effects parameterization. Landscape genetics analyses revealed that genetic discontinuities between subpopulations can be explained by landscape elements, suggesting that main roads, urban settings, and intensively cultivated areas are hampering gene flow (and thus individual movements) within the Sardinian wild boar population. Our results reveal how human‐transformed landscapes can affect genetic connectivity even in a large‐sized and highly mobile mammal such as the wild boar, and provide crucial information to manage the spread of pathogens, including the African Swine Fever virus, endemic in Sardinia.
Characteristics and outcomes of patients admitted for acute heart failure in a single‐centre study
Authors: Dokoupil Jiří , Hrečko Juraj , Čermáková Eva , Adamcová Michaela , Pudil Radek
Published: April 2022

Aims

Acute heart failure represents a medical condition with very high mortality. Accurate risk stratification can help physicians to improve the health care about these patients. The aim of our study was to characterize real‐life patients admitted for acute heart failure in a specific region with one tertiary medical centre and to describe risk factors of short‐term and long‐term mortality.

Methods and results

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients admitted from January 2017 to December 2017 to Department of cardiology of the tertiary medical centre University Hospital in Hradec Kralove. We identified 385 patients admitted for acute heart failure to the standard care and intensive care unit. The median of age was 74 years (IQR 67.5–80) and 34% of patients were female. Hospital admission was due to de novo heart failure in 222 (57.7%) patients. The most common comorbidities were arterial hypertension (77.7%), dyslipidaemia (67.3%) and coronary artery disease (63.1%). Coronary artery disease (52.7% of cases) and valve disease (28.1% of cases) were the most common aetiologies of heart failure. The all‐cause in‐hospital mortality was 12.7%, 30‐day mortality was 14.6% and 1 year mortality was 34%. Among risk factors of in‐hospital mortality, the most significant factors were haemodialysis during the hospitalization [odds ratio (OR) 15.82, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.96–84.57, P = 0.0008], chronic heart failure (OR 4.27, 95% CI 1.66–11.03, P = 0.001) and STEMI as a precipitating factor of heart failure (OR 4.19, 95% CI 1.23–14.25, P = 0.023). Haemodialysis during the hospitalization (OR 4.28, 95% CI 1.17–15.61, P = 0.025) and the comorbidity depression and anxiety (OR 3.49, 95% CI 1.45–8.39, P = 0.005) were the most significant risk factors of long‐term mortality.

Conclusions

Our study confirms very high mortality rates among patients with acute heart failure underlying poor prognosis of these patients. Comorbidities (peripheral artery disease, atrial fibrillation, chronic heart failure and depression and anxiety), precipitating factors of heart failure (myocardial infarction with ST segment elevation), complications occurring during the hospitalization (acute kidney injury, pulmonary ventilation for respiratory failure and haemodialysis) and the age of patients should be included in the risk stratification of in‐hospital, 30 day and 1 year mortality.
Planar Chiral Pseudo‐Isocoumarins by Copper Catalysed Desymmetrisation
Authors: Wright Adam J. , McMartin Fiona J. , Dyer Liam G. , Sayer Lloyd H. , Bulman Page Philip C. , Stephenson G. Richard
Published: April 2022

A new copper catalysed desymmetrisation reaction of bisalkynyl ferrocenecarboxylic acids using (R,R)‐Ph‐Pybox results in the first asymmetric synthesis of planar chiral pseudo‐isocoumarins in up to 64 % enantiomeric excess and up to 99 % yield with complete regioselectivity. Tri‐functionalised planar chiral ferrocenes are synthesised in five steps from commercially available materials, without the need for traditional directing group chemistry via an easily diversified route exploiting the double Sonogashira coupling reaction. The absolute configuration of the chiral heterocycles is proven by chemical correlation and circular dichroism spectroscopy giving the asymmetric reaction synthetic utility and opening the way for the rational extension of this method to produce bioactive isocoumarin‐fused ferrocene derivatives.
Sterols and Triterpene Dialcohols in Virgin Olive Oil: A Comprehensive Study on Their Transition from Fruits Depending on Malaxation Conditions and Ripening Degree
Authors: Aydin Sedef , Ozkan Gulcan , Yorulmaz Asli
Published: April 2022

Sterols are important minor constituents of the unsaponifiable fraction of virgin olive oil. They have critical roles in determining the authenticity of the oil and they are known to be affected by process conditions and maturity. Here, optimization of the malaxation temperatures at between 21 and 49 °C and times at between 24 and 66 min by response surface methodology is aimed in terms of oil yield, and contents of individual sterols and triterpene dialcohols of oils from olives at three maturity stages (spotted, purple, black). Results show that the amount of sterols is varied in different extents depending on the malaxation conditions as well as maturity stages. Mathematical models display high prediction performance to explain the variation in the studied responses of apparent β‐sitosterol, total sterol, β‐sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol for all maturity stages. The optimum conditions of malaxation temperature and time are 31 °C/44 min, 36 °C/26 min, and 37 °C/24 min from spotted, purple, and black fruits, respectively. In end, this study proves transition to the highest desired sterols with oil yield, and the lowest undesired sterols and triterpene dialcohols from fruits to oil by malaxating at moderate temperatures, not cold and hot pressing.

Practical applications: Sterols and triterpene dialcohols make up a large part of the minor components of olive oil. This group has gained high importance, especially after their significant impacts on the authenticity of olive oil. Sterolic content and triterpene dialcohols of olive oil depend especially on the fruit's maturity and processing methods. Malaxation temperature and time were optimized to achieve the transferability of the highest desired sterols and the lowest undesired sterols and triterpene dialcohols according to limits of the Commission Regulation (EEC). The current study was also evaluated by the change of total sterol content and individual sterol and triterpene diols profile of oils obtained from olives at different maturity stages. The optimized malaxation conditions are successful to achieve goals. Overall, it can be stated that olive oils with high desired sterols and low triterpene diols and undesired sterols in terms of EEC limits are economically precious.
Directed Crosslinking of RNA by Glutathione‐Triggered PNA‐Quinone‐Methide‐Conjugates
Authors: Hornung Jan‐Erik , Weinrich Timo , Göbel Michael W.
Published: April 2022

Quinone methide precursors protected with alkyldithiomethyl groups have been synthesized and converted into PNA conjugates. Stable in the absence of reducing agents, the electrophilic quinone methide is released by glutathione in concentrations typical for the cytosol. Self‐alkylation then occurs or crosslinking of RNA when hybridized with complementary strands. Fastest reactions are seen for the sterically least hindered compound.
P2X7 receptor‐mediated release of microglial prostanoids and miRNAs correlates with reversal of neuropathic hypersensitivity in rats
Authors: Staal Roland , Khayrullina Tanzilya , Christensen Rie , Hestehave Sara , Zhou Hua , Cajina Manuel , Nattini Megan E. , Gandhi Adarsh , Fallon Shaun M. , Schmidt Megan , Zorn Stevin H. , Brodbeck Robbin M. , Chandrasena Gamini , Segerdahl Märta , Breysse Nathalie , Hopper Allen T. , Möller Thomas , Munro Gordon
Published: April 2022

Background

P2X7 receptor antagonists have potential for treating various central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including neuropathic pain, although none have been approved for clinical use. Reasons may include insufficient understanding of P2X7 receptor signalling in pain, and the lack of a corresponding preclinical mechanistic biomarker.

Methods

Lu AF27139 is a highly selective and potent small molecule antagonist at rat, mouse and human forms of the P2X7 receptor, with excellent pharmacokinetic and CNS permeability properties. In the current experiments, we probed the utility of previously characterized and novel signalling cascades exposed to Lu AF27139 using cultured microglia combined with release assays. Subsequently, we assessed the biomarker potential of identified candidate molecules in the rat chronic constriction injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain; study design limitations precluded their assessment in spared nerve injury (SNI) rats.

Results

Lu AF27139 blocked several pain‐relevant pathways downstream of P2X7 receptors in vitro. At brain and spinal cord receptor occupancy levels capable of functionally blocking P2X7 receptors, it diminished neuropathic hypersensitivity in SNI rats, and less potently in CCI rats. Although tissue levels of numerous molecules previously linked to neuropathic pain and P2X7 receptor function (e.g. IL‐6, IL‐1β, cathepsin‐S, 2‐AG) were unaffected by CCI, Lu AF27139‐mediated regulation of spinal PGE2 and miRNA (e.g. rno‐miR‐93‐5p) levels increased by CCI aligned with its ability to diminish neuropathic hypersensitivity.

Conclusions

We have identified a pain‐relevant P2X7 receptor‐regulated mechanism in neuropathic rats, which could hold promise as a translatable biomarker and by association enhance the clinical progression of P2X7 receptor antagonists in neuropathic pain.

Significance

Sub‐optimal translation of preclinical molecules has hindered the clinical development of novel mechanism of action analgesics. We have undertaken a comprehensive in vitro analysis of migroglial signalling mechanisms recruited upon P2X7 receptor activation, a number of which were shown to be modulated by a selective P2X7 receptor antagonist in a well characterized animal model of neuropathic pain. Subject to further confirmation in other neuropathic models, this opens up the possibility to investigate their clinical utility as potential pain biomarkers in patients.
NFkB‐signaling promotes glial reactivity and suppresses Müller glia‐mediated neuron regeneration in the mammalian retina
Authors: Palazzo Isabella , Todd Levi J. , Hoang Thanh V. , Reh Thomas A. , Blackshaw Seth , Fischer Andy J.
Published: April 2022

Müller glia (MG) in mammalian retinas are incapable of regenerating neurons after damage, whereas the MG in lower vertebrates regenerate functional neurons. Identification of cell signaling pathways and gene regulatory networks that regulate MG‐mediated regeneration is key to harnessing the regenerative potential of MG. Here, we study how NFkB‐signaling influences glial responses to damage and reprogramming of MG into neurons in the rodent retina. We find activation of NFkB and dynamic expression of NFkB‐associated genes in MG after damage, however damage‐induced NFkB activation is inhibited by microglia ablation. Knockout of NFkB in MG suppressed the accumulation of immune cells after damage. Inhibition of NFkB following NMDA‐damage significantly enhanced the reprogramming of Ascl1‐overexpressing MG into neuron‐like cells. scRNA‐seq of retinal glia following inhibition of NFkB reveals coordination with signaling via TGFβ2 and suppression of NFI and Id transcription factors. Inhibition of Smad3 signal transducer or Id transcription factors increased numbers of neuron‐like cells produced by Ascl1‐overexpressing MG. We conclude that NFkB is a key signaling hub that is activated in MG after damage, mediates the accumulation of immune cells, and suppresses the neurogenic potential of MG.
Light, sleep‐wake rhythm, and behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia in care home patients: Revisiting the sundowning syndrome
Authors: Guu Ta‐Wei , Aarsland Dag , ffytche Dominic
Published: April 2022

Objectives

It is believed that inadequate environmental light, especially in facilities such as care homes, contribute to the diurnal changes of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) historically referred to as “sundowning syndrome”. Conceptual models of sundowning phenomena have shifted emphasis from the role of light in vision (image forming) to its role in circadian rhythm modulation. However, the grounds for this change are unclear and the evidence on which it is based has not been examined comprehensively.

Methods

We have searched literature on sundowning syndrome and its association with light and studies evaluating BPSD, behavioural rhythm and environmental light in care homes in four databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Cochrane Library) from inception to 31 January 2021.

Results

Of the nine studies investigating light, behavioural rhythm and BPSD in care homes identified, we found evidence that insufficient natural light exposure was associated with worsening of BPSD and disrupted activity rhythm but it was not clear whether this related to image forming or disrupted circadian rhythm. There was a paucity of evidence in relation to the role of low levels of light for image forming in the context of a specific BPSD symptom: visual hallucinations. We also found literature on the possible role of light outside the visible spectrum influencing cognition. Based on the evidence, we proposed a new model integrating different components of light in BPSD and sundowning syndrome that combines its image forming and circadian roles.

Conclusions

Inadequate light may be a risk factor for BPSD and sundowning syndrome for dementia patients through a range of different mechanisms. It is recommended that multiple neuro‐endocrinological and socio‐environmental factors relevant to light such as adjusting the environmental setting, increasing light exposure, and scheduling activities should be considered when treating dementia patients with BPSD.
Association of chronic inflammation with cardiovascular risk in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease—A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ljubičić Đivo , Balta Vedran , Dilber Dario , Vražić Hrvoje , Đikić Domagoj , Odeh Dyana , Habek Jasna Čerkez , Vukovac Emilija Lozo , Tudorić Neven
Published: April 2022

Background and Aims

COPD is progressive lung disease with known higher cardiovascular (CV) risk, mainly attributed to smoking of cigarettes as the main etiological factor of disease. The aim of this study was to compare CV risk in patients with COPD to control groups of smokers and non‐COPD and to investigate the relation of lung function variables, COPD severity, and smoking with Systemic Coronary Risk Estimation (SCORE) risk calculation, arterial stiffness (AS) values, and biological systemic inflammatory markers.

Methods

A total of 208 subjects were included in this study: 61 subjects diagnosed with COPD, 83 smokers without COPD, and 64 nonsmokers without COPD. Medical history and clinical data were recorded, including assessment of pulmonary function and AS, calculation of ankle‐brachial index, blood analysis, and CV risk assessment by SCORE risk calculation.

Results

Subjects with COPD had significantly higher values of SCORE calculation of risk, central aortic pressure, AS, and markers of systemic inflammation compared to control groups of smokers and nonsmokers without COPD (p < 0.001). Furthermore, statistically significant increase in hs‐CRP concentration was found between the COPD group and the control group of non‐COPD smokers (p < 0.001), and a statistically significantly higher SCORE calculation was found in the COPD group compared to control groups of smokers and nonsmokers without COPD (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results of the research support further identification and research of biological markers and simple specific tests such as arteriography that will enable progress in personalized treatment of patients with COPD and better primary and secondary prevention of comorbidities with the aim of improved treatment outcome.
Label‐free differentiation of clinical E. coli and Klebsiella isolates with Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Nakar Amir , Pistiki Aikaterini , Ryabchykov Oleg , Bocklitz Thomas , Rösch Petra , Popp Jürgen
Published: April 2022

Raman spectroscopy is a promising spectroscopic technique for microbiological diagnostics. In routine diagnostic, the differentiation of pathogens of the Enterobacteriaceae family remain challenging. In this study, Raman spectroscopy was applied for the differentiation of 24 clinical E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Klebsiella oxytoca isolates. Spectra were collected with two spectroscopic approaches: UV‐Resonance Raman spectroscopy (UVRR) and single‐cell Raman microspectroscopy with 532 nm excitation. A description of the different biochemical profiles provided by the different excitation wavelengths was performed followed by machine‐learning models for the classification at the genus and species levels. UVRR was shown to outperform 532 nm excitation, enabling correct classification at the genus level of 23/24 isolates. Furthermore, for the first time, Klebsiella species were correctly classified at the species level with 92% accuracy, classifying all three K. oxytoca isolates correctly. These findings should guide future applicative studies, increasing the scope of Raman spectroscopy's suitability for clinical applications.
The effect of short selling on corporate social responsibility: Evidence from a quasi‐experiment
Authors: Hong Yongtao , Wei Wei , Young Alex
Published: April 2022

Stakeholder demands have been viewed as constraints on the organization, as well as opportunities that can benefit the firm. To distinguish between these views, we use a natural experiment to study how relaxing constraints on short selling affects corporate social responsibility (CSR). With a difference‐in‐differences design, we find that relaxing short selling constraints has a positive impact on CSR investment. Furthermore, we find that the increase in CSR varies with measures of overvaluation and financial constraints, is mainly attributable to the strategic subset of CSR rather than the social subset, and is driven by a decrease in CSR concerns. Our result is consistent with the view that CSR can benefit the firm through an insurance effect: firms increase CSR as protection from bad news becoming more readily incorporated into stock prices from greater short selling.
Analysis of anti‐apoptotic PVT1 oncogene and apoptosis‐related proteins (p53, Bcl2, PD‐1, and PD‐L1) expression in thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Ibrahiem Afaf T. , Makhdoom Amin K. , Alanazi Khalid S. , Alanazi Abdulaziz M. , Mukhlef Abdulaziz M. , Elshafey Saad H. , Toraih Eman A. , Fawzy Manal S.
Published: April 2022

Background

An aberrant expression of long non‐coding RNA PVT1 has been associated with apoptosis in various cancer types. We aimed to explore the PVT1 and four apoptosis‐related proteins (p53, Bcl2, and PD‐1/PD‐L1) signature in thyroid cancer (TC).

Methods

The PVT1 expression level was measured in 64 FFPE TC paired samples by real‐time quantitative PCR. Overall and stratified analyses by different clinicopathological features were done. The apoptotic proteins were evaluated by immunohistochemistry staining.

Results

Overall analysis showed significant PVT1upregulation in TC tissues (p < 0.001). Similarly, subgroup analysis by BRAFV600E mutation showed consistent results. Lower expression of p53 was associated with mortality (p = 0.001). Bcl2 overexpression was associated with greater tumor size (p = 0.005). At the same time, HCV‐positive cases were associated with repressed Bcl2 expression levels (54.3% in HCV‐negative vs. 6.9% in HCV‐positive cases, p = 0.011). PD‐1 expression was associated with lymph node metastasis (p = 0.004). Enhanced PD‐L1 expression in the tumor was associated with a higher tumor stage, lymphovascular invasion, and mortality risk. Kaplan–Meier curves for overall survival showed that low p53 and high PD‐L1 expressions were associated with lower survival time. The p53‐positive staining is associated with a 90% decreased mortality risk (HR = 0.10, 95%CI = 0.02–0.47, p = 0.001), while patients with high PD‐L1 were five times more likely to die (HR = 4.74, 95%CI = 1.2–18.7, p = 0.027).

Conclusion

Our results confirm the upregulation of PVT1 in TC. The apoptosis‐related proteins (p53, Bcl2, and PD‐1/PD‐L1) showed different prognostic utility in TC patients; in particular, low p53 and high PD‐L1 expressions associated with low survival times. Further large‐scale and mechanistic studies are warranted.
SEM and XRD for removal of heavy metals from industrial wastewater and characterization of chicken eggshell
Authors: Amin Sumaira , Abbas Moneeza , Tahir Arifa , Ghani Nadia , Abrar Amina , Aslam Fakhra , Ahmad Safoora
Published: April 2022

Heavy metal toxicity due to industrial wastewater has been a threat to the environment for the past many decades, especially in developing countries. Electroplating Industry wastewater containing heavy metals can become a serious environmental pollutant if not treated appropriately. Present study investigated the removal of nickel and chromium ions from electroplating wastewater using calcined hen eggshells because of it high removal capability, little cost and easy approachability. Characterization of the adsorbent such as proximate analysis, surface charge, X‐ray diffraction, and surface area was done prior to adsorption process. Batch adsorption experiment was performed to study the effect of different parameters such as adsorbent dose, contact time, temperature, and pH for adsorbent. Removal percentage of both heavy metals was checked by using calcined eggshell as adsorbent. Comparison was made between nickel and chromium to identify the most effective removal efficacy. It was concluded that utilization of natural waste was found suitable, easier, cost operative and environmental approachable for removal of heavy metals from industrial wastewater.

Research Highlights

To use ecofriendly approach for the treatment of industrial wastewater.

To used calcined eggshell as adsorbents for removing metal concentration from industrial wastewater.

To find the metal removal potential of calcined eggshell under various environmental conditions like dosage, contact time, temperature, and pH.

To checking the efficacy of calcined eggshell.
Mader's conjecture for graphs with small connectivity
Authors: Hong Yanmei , Liu Qinghai
Published: April 2022

Mader conjectured that for any tree of order , every ‐connected graph with minimum degree at least contains a subtree such that is ‐connected. In this article, we give a characterization for a subgraph to contain an embedding of a specified tree avoiding some vertex. As a corollary, we confirm Mader's conjecture for .
Accelerated Pancreatobiliary MRI for Pancreatic Cancer Surveillance in Patients With Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms
Authors: Yoon Jeong Hee , Bae Jae Seok , Jeon Sunkyung , Chang Won , Lee Sang Min , Park Jin Young , Lee Jeong Sub , Lee Eun Sun , Cho In Rae , Lee Sang‐Hyub , Lee Jeong Min
Published: April 2022

Background

Pancreatobiliary MRI is often recommended for patients at risk of developing pancreas cancer. But the surveillance MRI protocol has not yet been widely accepted.

Purpose

To establish an accelerated MRI protocol targeting the table time of 15 minutes for pancreatic cancer surveillance and test its performance in lesion characterization.

Study type

Prospective.

Population

A total of 30 participants were enrolled, who were undergoing follow‐up care for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms or newly diagnosed pancreatic cysts (≥10 mm) and were scheduled for or had recently undergone contrast‐enhanced CT (CECT).

Field strength/sequence

A 3 T; heavily T2WI, 3D MRCP, DWI, dynamic T1WI, two‐point Dixon.

Assessment

In‐room time and table time were measured. Seven radiologists independently reviewed image quality of MRI and then the presence of high‐risk stigmata and worrisome features in addition to diagnostic confidence for accelerated MRI, CECT, and the noncontrast part of accelerated MRI (NC‐MRI).

Statistical analysis

Fisher's exact test was used for categorical variables and either the Student's t‐test or Mann–Whitney test was performed for continuous variables. The generalized estimated equation was used to compare the diagnostic performance of examinations on a per‐patient basis. Interobserver agreement was evaluated via Fleiss kappa. A P value of <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results

The in‐room time was 18.5 ± 2.6 minutes (range: 13.7–24.9) and the table time was 13.9 ± 1.9 minutes (range: 10.7–17.5). There was no significant difference between the diagnostic performances of the three examinations (pooled sensitivity: 75% for accelerated MRI and CECT, 68% for NC‐MRI, P = 0.95), with the highest significant diagnostic confidence for accelerated MRI (4.2 ± 0.1). With accelerated MRI, the interobserver agreement was fair to excellent for high‐risk stigmata (κ = 0.34–0.98).

Data Conclusion

Accelerated MRI protocol affords a table time of 15 minutes, making it potentially suitable for cancer surveillance in patients at risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Evidence level

2

Technical efficacy stage

2
Health preference research: An overview for medical radiation sciences
Authors: Brown Amy , Jones Scott , Yim Jackie
Published: April 2022

Understanding preferences of key stakeholders including patients, clinicians and policymakers can inform clinical practice, workforce and policy. It also allows health services to evaluate existing clinical practices, policies and procedures. This commentary aims to introduce medical radiation professionals to health preference research by describing commonly used preference methodologies, with a particular focus on discrete choice experiments. Relevant examples of health preference research will be highlighted to demonstrate the application of health preference research in medical radiation sciences.
A complete small‐signal model of GaAs dual‐gateHEMT
Authors: Huang Yuhan , Liu Jun , Chen Zhanfei
Published: April 2022

A complete small‐signal model of dual‐gate HEMT is proposed, considering the parasitic element effects. To extract the intrinsic elements accurately, the parasitic elements are eliminated by using a new method in this paper. It is realized by constructing two simple three‐port matrices and eliminating them with the features of ‐type and T‐type networks. This method is fast and accurate. Dual‐gate HEMTs could be regarded as a cascode connection of two single‐gate HMETs. A dual‐gate HEMT is fabricated on a commercial 0.25 μm GaAs technology to verify the proposed the extraction method. The result shows a good agreement between measured and simulated data over a wide frequency range.
Development of resistance to sarcoptic mange in ibex
Authors: Pérez Jesús M. , López‐Montoya Antonio J. , Cano‐Manuel Francisco J. , Soriguer Ramón C. , Fandos Paulino , Granados José E.
Published: April 2022

Sarcoptic mange affects mammal host species worldwide and, particularly, wild Caprinae throughout much of Eurasia. In the Iberian Peninsula, several outbreaks of sarcoptic mange in Iberian ibex (Capra pyrenaica) have been reported since the 1980s. Using data from a period of long‐term monitoring and a seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA)‐generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (GARCH) model approach, we performed a time‐series analysis of the monthly prevalence of sarcoptic mange in the Iberian ibex population in Sierra Nevada Natural Space in southern Spain. In January 2003–March 2021, we documented a significant negative trend in sarcoptic mange prevalence, albeit with some interannual peaks. These findings can only be explained if a certain level of resistance to sarcoptic mange exists in hosts that, along with other factors, could provoke this reduced prevalence. Prevalence values varied seasonally, with maximum values in spring and minimum values at the end of summer, which may be due to factors linked to climate, host behavior, and endocrine activity. Our model predicts that the prevalence of sarcoptic mange in the Iberian ibex will continue to decrease over the next 2 years. Despite the inherent challenges involved, diagnosing and monitoring of wildlife diseases are integral to obtaining reliable epidemiological data and designing appropriate management strategies.
Film Forming Nanogels for Needle‐Free Transdermal Vaccination
Authors: Sonzogni Ana , Cabrera Gabriel , Lupi Giuliana , Gugliotta Luis , Gonzalez Verónica , Marcipar Iván , Minari Roque
Published: April 2022

Transcutaneous immunization (TCI) provides a valuable alternative approach to conventional vaccination because of the high accessibility and the exceptional immunological characteristics of the skin, but its application is limited by the low permeability of the stratum corneum. Although nanogels (NGs) have proven to enhance skin penetration of macromolecules with minimum damage, their use in TCI remains almost unexplored. In this context, this article evaluates the performance of novel film‐forming NGs (FF‐NGs) as TCI. This TCI platform consists of NGs with multilobular morphology that positively combines the properties of cross‐linked poly(N‐vinylcaprolactam), like thermoresponsiveness and the ability to load and release a cargo, with the film‐forming capacity of low Tg lobes. FF‐NGs and formed films are characterized at different levels. Formed films show to be able to uniformly load an antigenic protein and release it with a profile depending on the temperature and on their FF‐NGs content. In vivo studies have demonstrated that FF‐NGs promote the penetration of not only an antigenic protein, but also an adjuvant until the immunocompetent area of skin, generating an adjuvant‐dependent specific immune response. Finally, this study provides a successful proof of concept that FF‐NGs can be a powerful tool for the transcutaneous release of complex formulations.
Failure analysis of a double edge cracked curved composite beam
Authors: Inik T. , Karakus S. , Yetmez M.
Published: April 2022

Today, woven type composite materials are used in many engineering fields such as automotive and aerospace engineering. Besides the dynamic characteristics, understanding failure behavior is a key issue for such that materials. In this study, failure behavior of double edge cracked carbon woven carbon composite curved beams under compression is investigated using both experimental and computational approaches. For this purpose, following sequences are considered: (i) finite element models of uncracked curved beam, single edge cracked curved beam and double edge cracked curved beam are verified through modal testing and analysis, (ii) results of computational failure prediction of double edge cracked woven carbon woven curved beams under compression are compared with that of single edge cracked woven carbon woven curved beams. Effect of crack on determining failure mechanism of the curved beam is examined. Results are given in tabular and graphical forms.
Express diagnostics of stress‐strain states of materials
Authors: Harničárová M. , Valíček J. , Duer S. , Kušnerová M. , Palková Z. , Mital'ová Z.
Published: April 2022

The presented paper deals with the development of a new method for determining static and dynamic values of mechanical equivalents from ultrasonic wave measurements. The aim of the new method of determination of mechanical equivalents of materials based on ultrasonic wave measurements is the development of a new algorithm for implementation in instruments for express non‐destructive diagnostics of elastic‐strength and defectoscopic parameters and instantaneous stress‐strain state of the material, including theoretical construction of the σ‐ϵ load diagram and other analyses based on ultrasonic measurements. The proposed method is characterized by a new theoretical basis for determining the equivalents of physical‐mechanical and defectoscopic characteristics, i. e., the equivalents of the so‐called tabular values of materials, and, in addition, it will also expressively evaluate their time evolution changes due to the structural‐strain alteration of the material during the reshaping process under technological and functional stresses.
Study of the effect of temperature and relaxation time on the force‐strain characteristics of textile yarns upon tensile loading
Authors: Krmela J. , Krmelová V. , Dubec A. , Skalková P. , Gavendová M.
Published: April 2022

The textile materials can be used in many technical applications in various fields, such as automotive. Depending on the application areas, the textile or fiber‐based materials have to meet certain predetermined requirements. Textile yarns can be used as reinforcing cords in composites in which an elastomeric matrix is used. The basic mechanical tensile test at standard temperature does not provide all the information required for obtaining the material parameters. The tests are also necessary to be performed at reduced temperatures, depending on the following application. Furthermore, it is necessary to consider stress relaxation in specific tests for the practical use. In this work, there is the experimental investigation of the effect of the selected temperatures (20 °C and 120 °C) and the relaxation times (60 s and 120 s) on the mechanical properties of the selected textile yarns from polyamide 6.6 under the uniaxial tensile tests. The results reveal that the relaxation time for the first 20 seconds is interesting because there is a significant decrease in the force while holding the strain. A final method is proposed, and it can be used for any other applications, and it guarantees the repeatability of measurements in the relatively fast measured time.
Calibration of a combined isotropic‐kinematic hardening material model for the simulation of thin electrical steel sheets subjected to cyclic loading
Authors: Kubaschinski P. , Gottwalt A. , Tetzlaff U. , Altenbach H. , Waltz M.
Published: April 2022

The combined isotropic‐kinematic hardening model enables the description of the cyclic transient elastic‐plastic material behaviour of steel. However, the determination of the material model parameters and understanding of their influence on the material response can be a challenging task. This study deals with the individual steps of the material model calibration for the simulation of thin electrical steel sheets under cyclic loading. Specific recommendations are made for the determination of kinematic and isotropic hardening material parameters. In particular, the isotropic hardening evolution is described by Voce's exponential law and a simple multilinear approach. Based on the multilinear approach, which allows for different slopes in the evolution of the yield surface size, an alternative calibration of the isotropic hardening component is proposed. As a result, the presence of the yield plateau in the first half cycle can be accurately captured, while convergence issues in the material model definition for numerical simulations can be avoided. The comparison of simulated load cycles with experimental cyclic tests shows a good agreement, which indicates the suitability of the proposed material model calibration for electrical steel.
A small‐scale creep test for calibrating an efficient lifetime model for high pressure turbine blades
Authors: Dresbach C. , Wischek J. , Bartsch M. , Prien T.
Published: April 2022

Jet engines of airplanes are designed such that in some components damage occurs and accumulates in service without being critical up to a certain level of damage. Since maintenance, repair, and component exchange are very cost‐intensive, it is necessary to predict efficiently the component lifetime with high accuracy. A former developed lifetime model, based on interpolated results of aerodynamic and structural mechanics simulations, uses material parameters estimated from literature values of standard creep experiments. For improved accuracy, an experimental procedure is developed for the characterization of the short‐time creep behavior, which is relevant for the operation of turbine blades of jet engines. To consider microstructural influences resulting from the manufacturing of thin‐walled single crystal turbine blades, small‐scale specimens from used turbine blades are extracted and tested in short‐ and medium‐time creep experiments. Based on experimental results and literature values, a creep model, which describes the fracture behavior for a wide range of creep loads, is calibrated and is now used for the lifetime prediction of turbine blades under real loading conditions.
Automotive reinforcement seat belt parts for light‐weight design by applying SPFC590 and DP660 high strength steels based on analysis of formability
Authors: Kim K.J. , Lee J.‐W.
Published: April 2022

High‐strength steel, which has high strength characteristics compared to general body steel, has emerged as a representative lightweight material due to advantages such as excellent price competitiveness and easy applicability of manufacturing process compared to other lightweight materials such as nonferrous metal and sandwich plate. Therefore, this study aimed to reduce the thickness of parts and to make them lighter by applying high tensile steel of 600 MPa or more to various body parts. SPFC590 and DP660 high tensile steels were applied to reinforcement seat belt front upper and lower components, respectively. To this end, the mechanical properties of high tensile steel were measured and the performance of the parts and the rationality of the design process were investigated through FE‐analysis such as strength and forming analysis.
Application of diffuse coplanar surface barrier plasma discharge to polymeric materials
Authors: Janík R. , Kohutiar M. , Pajtášová M. , Ondrušová D. , Skalková P. , Eckert M.
Published: April 2022

The KPR 200 mm plasma reactor is a device designed for the surface modification of various materials. Such a modification occurs by applying a unique type of plasma – plasma generated on a ceramic dielectric. The ceramic dielectric is a durable system with which it is possible to continuously modify the surfaces of materials with such a plasma. The advantage of applying this unique type of plasma is that the modification of the materials occurs at room temperature and atmosphere. However, it is necessary to monitor and observe certain parameters, for example: the selected power, the exposure time of the surfaces of the modified materials, and the distance of the surface from the ceramic dielectric itself. Therefore, in the present paper, the effect of diffuse coplanar surface barrier discharge (DCSBD) plasma discharge on selected polymeric materials was investigated. Plasma impact assessment was also performed using image analysis, that could provide relevant information in the process of plasma‐chemical modification. Changes in the surfaces of the investigated thin polyvynil chloride material, before and after exposure to plasma discharge, were also observed (changes in contact angle, atomic force microscopy).
Tin dioxide in terms of physical properties on steel AISI 316 LVM
Authors: Basiaga M. , Walke W. , Lisoń J. , Taratuta A , Szewczenko J , Ziębowicz B. , Szindler M. , Dyner A
Published: April 2022

This paper aimed to investigate the physical properties of SnO2 coatings deposited by atomic layer deposition on 316LVM stainless steel for biomedical applications. New assessment strategies for tin oxide functional materials are of fundamental importance in the development of new surface of biomaterials. Thin films of SnO2 have good substrate adhesion and could be deposited even on clean glass substrate. Tin oxide (SnO2) has a similar crystal structure like TiO2. It is believed that SnO2 can have a similar effect on TiO2 by inducing the formation of a calcium phosphate layer. Additionally, tin dioxide with nanocrystalline impurities has been reported to exist antibacterial activity. As part of the work, the SnO2 layer was deposited by using the atomic layer deposition (ALD) method. The application process was carried out for a different number of cycles. In the first stage study of abrasion resistance and coating adhesion to the substrate were carried out. The surface topography was examinated using atomic force microscope (AFM) and wettability test were also complemented. Obtained results may form the basis for the development of more detailed criteria for the assessment of the final quality of medical devices used in the skeletal system, which will ensure the required biocompatibility of implants and contribute to minimizing the risk of postoperative complications.
The use of telemedicine in cardiogenetics clinical practice during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Liang Lusha W. , Kalia Isha , Latif Farhana , Waase Marc P. , Shimada Yuichi J. , Sayer Gabriel , Reilly Muredach P. , Uriel Nir
Published: April 2022

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has necessitated the rapid and widespread adoption of novel mechanisms of service delivery, including the use of telemedicine. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of COVID‐19 on cardiogenetics practices.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics of patients who were seen for cardiogenetics visits pre‐pandemic (1 April–23 December 2019) and during the pandemic (1 April–23 December 2020) at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

Results

Six percent (n = 6) of visits in 2019 were remote telemedicine encounters, whereas 80% (n = 106) of visits in 2020 were telemedicine encounters. In 2019, only 18% (n = 19) of the patients seen for genetic counseling were family members of probands; this percentage increased to 34% in 2020 (n = 45; p = .01). In 2020, the geographic reach of genetic counseling also extended far beyond New York State, reaching a total of 11 states as well as one patient in Puerto Rico. Genetic testing results were similar in 2019 and 2020.

Conclusion

Despite the health‐care delivery barriers created by the COVID‐19 pandemic, the use of telemedicine allowed us to expand the reach of cardiovascular genetic counseling and testing.
The relationship between the conservation laws and multi‐Hamiltonian structures of the Kundu equation
Authors: Zhang Jian‐bing , Gongye Yingyin , Ma Wen‐Xiu
Published: April 2022

By the Lagrangian multiplier and constraint variational derivative, a relationship between conserved quantities and multi‐Hamiltonian structures is built. Using the relation, a method is founded to prove the infinite‐dimensional Liouville integrability of evolution equations with continuous variables. As the application, the conservation laws of the Kundu equation are first obtained. Its conserved quantities are deduced for comparing by Fokas' method different from the method used in the existed literature. The integrability of the equation is proved through taking the conservation laws as a starting point.