bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and propagation of hydrologic drought from meteorological and agricultural drought in the Mekong River Basin
Authors: Palanisamy Bakkiyalakshmi , Narasimhan Balaji , Paul Sabu , Srinivasan Raghavan , Wangpimool Winai , Sith Ratino , Sayasane Rattykone
Published: July 2023

Mekong River Basin (MRB) experiences extreme droughts and floods frequently, due to the precipitation deficit across the basin. The meteorological droughts will have a profound impact on the distribution of soil moisture and hence agricultural productivity, which will lead to the reduction of surface water resources. It is therefore important to evaluate the deficits in hydrometeorological extremes, that is, precipitation, soil moisture, and streamflow to help decipher how one drought results in the other. In this study, a streamflow deficit index (SDI) has been proposed and applied to understand the changes in hydrology due to the fluctuations in precipitation and soil moisture in the Mekong River Basin (MRB). The study used percent normal (PN), a precipitation deficit index, and soil moisture deficit index (SMDI) to identify the initiation and sustenance of hydrological drought using SDI. The SMDI was obtained from soil moisture simulated using the soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) for the periods of 1980–2008. The study results suggested that the proposed index was able to represent the historical river flow deficit that persisted in the basin in the year 1992. Increasing variation in the streamflow deficit in parts of Thailand, Lao PDR, Vietnam, and Cambodia from the year 1992 was also captured by SDI. The flooding year 2000, which resulted in an economic loss of over 200 million USD, was also effectively captured by the proposed index. The lengthening of the streamflow drought, a metric used to represent drought propagation, was shorter by at least 2 months in forested catchments compared with that of agricultural catchments, which implies that any deficit in precipitation and soil moisture, will have a severe impact on agricultural basins. Similarly, the attenuation of both agricultural and hydrological drought was found to be smaller in forested subbasins than those in agricultural subbasins. The findings of the study will be useful for the timely identification of extreme hydrological events and for planning mitigation measures.
Faecal microbiota transplantation from young rats attenuates age‐related sarcopenia revealed by multiomics analysis
Authors: Mo Xiaoxing , Shen Lihui , Cheng Ruijie , Wang Pei , Wen Lin , Sun Yunhong , Wang Qiang , Chen Juan , Lin Shan , Liao Yuxiao , Yang Wei , Yan Hong , Liu Liegang
Published: July 2023

Background

Gut microbiota plays a key role in the development of sarcopenia via the ‘gut‐muscle’ axis, and probiotics‐based therapy might be a strategy for sarcopenia. Fecal microbiota transplantation from young donors (yFMT) has attracted much attention because of its probiotic function. However, whether or not yFMT is effective for sarcopenia in old recipients is largely unknown. Thus, we aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of yFMT on age‐related sarcopenia.

Methods

The fecal microbiota of either young (12 weeks) or old (88 weeks) donor rats was transplanted into aged recipient rats for 8 weeks. Then, muscle mass, muscle strength, muscle function, muscle atrophy, and muscle regeneration capacity were measured. Analysis of fecal 16 s rRNA, serum non‐targeted metabolomic, gut barrier integrity, and muscle transcriptome was conducted to elucidate the interaction between gut microbiota and skeletal muscles.

Results

As evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging examination, grip strength test (P < 0.01), rotarod test (P < 0.05), and exhaustive running test (P < 0.05), we found that yFMT mitigated muscle mass loss, muscle strength weakness, and muscle function impairment in aged rats. yFMT also countered age‐related atrophy and poor regeneration capacity in fast‐ and slow‐switch muscles, which were manifested by the decrease in slow‐switch myofibres (both P < 0.01) and muscle interstitial fibrosis (both P < 0.05) and the increase in the cross‐section area of myofibres (both P < 0.001), fast‐switch myofibres (both P < 0.01), and muscle satellite cells (both P < 0.001). In addition, yFMT ameliorated age‐related dysbiosis of gut microbiota and metabolites by promoting the production of beneficial bacteria and metabolites—Akkermansia, Lactococcus, Lactobacillus, γ‐glutamyltyrosine, 3R‐hydroxy‐butanoic acid, and methoxyacetic acid and inhibiting the production of deleterious bacteria and metabolites—Family_XIII_AD3011_group, Collinsella, indoxyl sulfate, indole‐3‐carboxilic acid‐O‐sulphate, and trimethylamine N‐oxide. Also, yFMT prevented age‐related destruction of gut barrier integrity by increasing the density of goblet cells (P < 0.0001) and the expression levels of mucin‐2 (P < 0.0001) and tight junctional proteins (all P < 0.05). Meanwhile, yFMT attenuated age‐related impairment of mitochondrial biogenesis and function in fast‐ and slow‐switch muscles. Correlation analysis revealed that yFMT‐induced alterations of gut microbiota and metabolites might be closely related to mitochondria‐related genes and sarcopenia‐related phenotypes.

Conclusions

yFMT could reshape the dysbiosis of gut microbiota and metabolites, maintain gut barrier integrity, and improve muscle mitochondrial dysfunction, eventually alleviating sarcopenia in aged rats. yFMT might be a new therapeutic strategy for age‐related sarcopenia.
In situ synthesis of S‐doped coal‐based carbon quantum dots and its application to Cr6+ detection
Authors: Xu Shiyong , Zhang Jiqiao , Li Mei , Jin Zhiliang , Wang Yijun
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Coal‐based carbon quantum dots have better stability compared with other carbon quantum dots prepared from small molecules as carbon sources. Elemental doping can effectively improve the fluorescence performance of carbon quantum dots. However, the electronegativity difference between sulfur and carbon is small and the charge transfer between the two is very weak, so it is very difficult to dope sulfur onto carbon quantum dots by chemical methods. High sulfur content coal can achieve in situ synthesis of sulfur‐containing carbon quantum dots.

RESULTS

The results showed that the prepared quantum dots had good stability and which increased with the increase of coal rank. CQDS is well dispersed, with an average particle size between 2.44 and 2.74 nm. It can emit light blue fluorescence under the UV excitation of 365 nm. It was found that trace amount of Cr6+ had a fluorescence quenching effect on CQDS and a good linear relationship was observed in the range of 0–100 μmol·L−1.

CONCLUSION

Quantum dots doped with S atoms have better selectivity, interference resistance, and sensitivity in the detection of metal ions. The stability and the particle size of CQDS are increased with the coal rank. The quantum yield of CQDS prepared from high sulfur content coal is higher than low sulfur content coal which has same rank. The addition of Cr6+ to CQDS produces a dynamic fluorescence quenching. This study provides a new idea for the green preparation of coal‐based carbon quantum dots and the ion detection. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
The importance of the “how”: the case for differentiated service delivery of long‐acting and extended delivery regimens for HIV prevention and treatment
Authors: Grimsrud Anna , Wilkinson Lynne , Delany‐Moretlwe Sinead , Ehrenkranz Peter , Green Kimberly , Murenga Maureen , Ngure Kenneth , Otwoma Nelson J. , Phanuphak Nittaya , Vandevelde Wim , Vitoria Marco , Bygrave Helen
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Long‐acting and extended delivery (LAED) regimens for HIV treatment and prevention offer unique benefits to expand uptake, effective use and adherence. To date, research has focused on basic and clinical science around the safety and efficacy of these products. This commentary outlines opportunities in HIV prevention and treatment programmes, both for the health system and clients, that could be addressed through the inclusion of LAED regimens and the vital role of differentiated service delivery (DSD) in ensuring efficient and equitable access.

Discussion

The realities and challenges within HIV treatment and prevention programmes are different. Globally, more than 28 million people are accessing HIV treatment—the vast majority on a daily fixed‐dose combination oral pill that is largely available, affordable and well‐tolerated. Many people collect extended refills outside of health facilities with clinical consultations once or twice a year. Conversely, uptake of daily oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has consistently missed global targets due to limited access with high individual cost and lack of choice contributing to substantial unmet PrEP need. Recent trends in demedicalization, simplification, additional method options and DSD for PrEP have led to accelerated uptake as its availability has become more aligned with user preferences. How people currently receive HIV treatment and prevention services and their barriers to adherence must be considered for the introduction of LAED regimens to achieve the expected improvements in access and outcomes. Important considerations include the building blocks of DSD: who (provider), where (location), when (frequency) and what (package of services). Ideally, all LAED regimens will leverage DSD models that emphasize access at the community level and self‐management. For treatment, LAED regimens may address challenges with adherence but their delivery should provide clear advantages over existing oral products to be scaled. For prevention, LAED regimens expand a potential PrEP user's choice of methods, but like other methods, need to be delivered in a manner that can facilitate frequent re‐initiation.

Conclusions

To ensure that innovative LAED HIV treatment and prevention products reach those who most stand to benefit, service delivery and client considerations during development, trial and early implementation are critical.
What will it take for an injectable ARV to change the face of the HIV epidemic in high‐prevalence countries? Considerations regarding drug costs and operations
Authors: Meyer‐Rath Gesine , Jamieson Lise , Pillay Yogan
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The proven effectiveness of injectable cabotegravir (CAB‐LA) is higher than that of any other HIV prevention intervention ever trialled or implemented, surpassing medical male circumcision, condoms and combination antiretroviral treatment. Based on our own analyses and experience with the South African oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) programme, we review the supply and demand side factors that would need to be in place for a successful rollout of CAB‐LA, and delineate lessons for the launch of other long‐acting and extended delivery (LAED) antiretroviral drugs.

Discussion

On the supply side, CAB‐LA will have to be offered at a price that makes the drug affordable and cost‐effective to low‐ and middle‐income countries, especially those with high HIV prevalence. An important factor in lowering prices is a guaranteed market volume, which in turn necessitates the involvement of large funders, such as PEPFAR and the Global Fund, and a fairly rapid scale‐up of the drug. Such a scale‐up would have to involve speedy regulatory approval and WHO pre‐qualification, swift integration of CAB‐LA into national guidelines and planning for large enough manufacturing capacity, including the enabling of local manufacture. On the demand side, existing demand for HIV prevention products has to be harnessed and additional demand created, which will be aided by designing CAB‐LA programmes at the primary healthcare or community level, and involving non‐traditional outlets, such as private pharmacies and doctors’ practices.

Conclusions

CAB‐LA could be the game changer for HIV prevention that we have been hoping for, and serve as a useful pilot for other LAEDs. A successful rollout would involve building markets of a guaranteed size; lowering the drug's price to a level possibly below the cost of production, while also lowering the cost of production altogether; harnessing, creating and sustaining demand for the product over the long term, wherever possible, in national programmes rather than single demonstration sites; and establishing and maintaining manufacturing capacity and supply chains. For this, all parties have to work together—including originator and generic manufacturers, donor organizations and other large funders, and the governments of low‐ and middle‐income countries, in particular those with high HIV prevalence.
Advancing the use of Long‐Acting Extended Delivery formulations for HIV prevention in sub‐Saharan Africa: challenges, opportunities, and recommendations
Authors: Mgodi Nyaradzo M. , Murewanhema Grant , Moyo Enos , Samba Chesterfield , Musuka Godfrey , Dzinamarira Tafadzwa , Brown Joelle M.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The burden of HIV in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) remains unacceptably high, and disproportionately affects girls and women. While the introduction of oral HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in 2012 revolutionized HIV prevention, its effectiveness is dependent on user adherence and its implementation in SSA has faced numerous challenges. Patient‐level, interpersonal and structural barriers, including, for example, daily pill burden, side effects, lack of partner support, testing and disclosure, and costs have been found to reduce adherence to oral PrEP.

Discussion

Long‐acting extended delivery (LAED) formulations for PrEP, such as injectable long‐acting cabotegravir (CAB‐LA) and dapivirine vaginal ring (DPV‐VR) are critical additions to the HIV prevention toolkit and are especially important for populations such as adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) and other key populations who remain at significant risk of HIV acquisition while facing substantial barriers to preventive services. These LAED formulations have been shown to result in better adherence and fewer side effects, with CAB‐LA being superior to oral PrEP in reducing the risk of HIV acquisition. They can be used to overcome user burden and adherence challenges. However, the successful rollout of the DPV‐VR and CAB‐LA may be hampered by issues such as a shortage of healthcare providers (HCPs), inadequate parenteral medication infrastructure, increased workload for HCPs, patient concerns, the price of the medications and the possibility of drug resistance.

Conclusions

SSA must develop laboratory capabilities for monitoring patients on LAED formulations and enhance research on developing more non‐injectable LAED formulations. There is a need to train and retain more HCPs, implement task shifting, invest in healthcare infrastructure and integrate healthcare services. To reduce costs and improve availability, the region must advocate for patent license waivers for LAED formulations and procure drugs collectively as a region.
Choosing between energy and ecologies of health: Understanding developmentalism, state formation and local life worlds
Authors: Niazi Komal , Shoaib Muhammad , Qadar Abdul
Published: July 2023

Environmental crises, precipitated by a globally dominant model of developmentalism, have changed the lives of less visible communities in geographical peripheries. This study draws on our participant observation of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in general as a massive infrastructural development project and the Qadirabad coal power plant as one of many CPEC projects where developmentalism and local lives intersect with each other. We have presented evidence of how massive development projects bring about consequential but disguised social and environmental impacts on locals. The locals' narratives show that the Qadirabad project has brought about economic, agricultural and environmental degradation in their lives. They believe that the governments in Pakistan are conscious of foreign projects with adverse effects on the everyday lived realities of the people but willfully choose to ignore them.
Impacts of agricultural capital subsidies for women in Burkina Faso: Lessons from a Computable General Equilibrium model
Authors: Zidouemba Patrice Rélouendé , Kinda Romuald Somlanare , Nikiema Pouirkèta Rita
Published: July 2023

Sub‐Saharan African countries have a strong involvement of women in the agricultural sector. However, women have limited access to productive resources. A better endowment of productive resources for women is seen as a crucial option for achieving noteworthy results in terms of agricultural production, income, and economic growth and for reducing income inequalities between men and women. This study aims to analyse the potential impacts of a subsidy policy on women's agricultural capital in Burkina Faso. It makes use of a recursive dynamic computable general equilibrium model and a gendered social accounting matrix. The results indicate that the subsidy policy contributes to increasing women's income more than men's income, helping to reduce income inequality between men and women. Moreover, unemployment for women decreases significantly. Finally, the policy is conducive to economic growth regardless of the funding source.
The cost of perfection: An investigation into the unnecessary rejection of clinically acceptable lateral wrist imaging
Authors: Steward Adam , Semsem Sarah , Currie Katie , Bentley Louise , Mineo Renee , Holliday Mia , McAnulty Kim , Master Vahid
Published: July 2023

Introduction

This study illustrates image rejection rates of the lateral wrist x‐ray projection at a large, public teaching hospital. Rejected images were evaluated to determine the number of images that needed to be repeated based on the clinical indication. This study highlights the difference in subjective image‐repeat decision‐making skills existing between radiologists, experienced radiographers and junior radiographers.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of all rejected lateral wrist x‐ray images by a panel of three radiologists, three experienced radiographers and six junior radiographers. This review aimed to determine if rejected imaging met the consideration of the clinical indication and assumed appropriate acquisition of an orthogonal projection. A complement of images that had not been rejected were included in the review to create a blinded study.

Results

The review demonstrated 85.8% of rejected images were deemed to meet clinical requirements according to radiologists. The experienced radiographers agreed with radiologists regarding 75.3% of images. Junior radiographers agreed with radiologists in 34.2% of cases. Junior radiographers were three times more likely to seek repeat imaging than the radiologists and experienced radiographers.

Conclusions

This review demonstrated a lateral wrist projection reject rate of 38.7% with unnecessary repeats according to clinical indications in 85.8% of cases. The review of experienced radiographers was comparable to radiologists; however, the difference in decision‐making skills was evident in the junior radiographers. This highlights an alarming trend, should similar results be demonstrated at other health services and indicates an unnecessary burden to clinical practice. Inclusion of clinical reasoning for imaging and the need for repeat imaging is recommended for radiography training programs.
Authenticity study of commercial samples of St. John's wort by paper spray ionization mass spectrometry and chemometric tools
Authors: Miguita Ana Gabriella Carvalho , Augusti Rodinei , Sena Marcelo Martins , Nascentes Clésia Cristina
Published: July 2023

Hypericum perforatum L. (St. John's wort) is one of the world's most consumed medicinal plants for treating depression and psychiatric disorders. Counterfeiting can occur in the medicinal plant trade, either due to the lack of active ingredients or the addition of substances not mentioned on the labels, often without therapeutic value or even harmful to health. Hence, 43 samples of St. John's wort commercially acquired in different Brazilian regions and other countries were analyzed by paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PS‐MS) and modeled by principal component analysis. Hence, samples (plants, capsules, and tablets) were extracted with ethanol in a solid–liquid extraction. For the first time, PS‐MS analysis allowed the detection of counterfeit H. perforatum samples containing active principles typical of other plants, such as Ageratum conyzoides and Senna spectabilis. About 52.3% of the samples were considered adulterated for having at least one of these two species in their composition. Furthermore, out of 35 samples produced in Brazil, only 13 were deemed authentic, having only H. perforatum. Therefore, there is a clear need to improve these drugs' quality control in Brazil.
Optimal heat stress metric for modelling heat‐related mortality varies from country to country
Authors: Lo Y. T. Eunice , Mitchell Dann M. , Buzan Jonathan R. , Zscheischler Jakob , Schneider Rochelle , Mistry Malcolm N. , Kyselý Jan , Lavigne Éric , da Silva Susana Pereira , Royé Dominic , Urban Aleš , Armstrong Ben ,   Multi‐Country Multi‐City (MCC) Collaborative Research Network, Gasparrini Antonio , Vicedo‐Cabrera Ana M.
Published: July 2023

Combined heat and humidity is frequently described as the main driver of human heat‐related mortality, more so than dry‐bulb temperature alone. While based on physiological thinking, this assumption has not been robustly supported by epidemiological evidence. By performing the first systematic comparison of eight heat stress metrics (i.e., temperature combined with humidity and other climate variables) with warm‐season mortality, in 604 locations over 39 countries, we find that the optimal metric for modelling mortality varies from country to country. Temperature metrics with no or little humidity modification associates best with mortality in ~40% of the studied countries. Apparent temperature (combined temperature, humidity and wind speed) dominates in another 40% of countries. There is no obvious climate grouping in these results. We recommend, where possible, that researchers use the optimal metric for each country. However, dry‐bulb temperature performs similarly to humidity‐based heat stress metrics in estimating heat‐related mortality in present‐day climate.
Food quality profile of pounded yam and implications for yam breeding
Authors: Otegbayo Bolanle , Oluyinka Oroniran , Tanimola Abiola R. , Bisi Fawehinmi , Ayomide Alamu , Tomilola Bolaji , Madu Tessy , Okoye Benjamin , Chijioke Ugo , Ofoeze Miriam , Alamu Emmanuel Oladeji , Adesokan Michael , Ayetigbo Oluwatoyin , Bouniol Alexandre , DJibril‐Mousa Imayath , Adinsi Laurent , Akissoe Noël , Cornet Denis , Agre Parterne , Asfaw Asrat , Obidiegwu Jude , Maziya‐Dixon Busie
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Assessment of the key preferred quality traits in pounded yam, a popularly consumed yam food product in West Africa, is often done through sensory evaluation. Such assessment is time‐consuming and results may be biased. Therefore, there is a need to develop objective, high‐throughput methods to predict the quality of consumer‐preferred traits in pounded yam. This study focused on how key quality traits in pounded yam proposed to yam breeders were determined, measured by biophysical and biochemical methods, in order to shorten the breeding selection cycle through adoption of these methods by breeders.

RESULTS

Consumer tests and sensory quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) validated that preferred priority quality traits in pounded yam were related to textural quality (smooth, stretchable, moldable, slightly sticky and moderately hard) and color (white, cream or light yellow). There were significant correlations between sensory textural quality attributes cohesiveness/moldability, hardness, and adhesiveness/stickiness, with textural quality measurements from instrumental texture profile analysis (TPA). Color measurement parameters (L*, a*, and b*) with chromameter agreed with that of sensory evaluation and can replace the sensory panel approach. The smoothness (R2 = 1.00), stickiness (R2 = 1.00), stretchability (R2 = 1.00), hardness (R2 = 0.99), and moldability (R2 = 0.53) of pounded yam samples can be predicted by the starch, amylose, and protein contents of yam tubers estimated by near‐infrared spectroscopy.

CONCLUSION

TPA and Hunter colorimeter can be used as medium‐high throughput methods to evaluate the textural quality and color of pounded yam in place of the sensory panelists. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Single‐Port Robotic Removal of a Submucosal Foreign Body in the Distal Hypopharynx
Authors: Stefan Andrew J. , Ghanem Tamer , Mayerhoff Ross
Published: July 2023

In this report, we present a 55‐year‐old female with cervical stenosis that underwent C5‐C7 anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgery complicated by hardware failure requiring removal. One screw remained after transcervical hardware removal due to operative difficulty with the risk of exposing the hypopharyngeal submucosal space. The retained screw caused the patient significant discomfort and dysphagia prompting a transoral attempt at removal. Using a hypopharynx blade on an oral retractor for access, the single‐port surgical robot successfully removed the foreign body from the distal hypopharynx. In this case, a single‐port surgical robot expanded access to the inferior hypopharynx. Laryngoscope, 134:588–591, 2024
Investigation of the corrosion behavior of 6082 aluminum alloy in deicing salt
Authors: Yang Li , Wang Dongxu , Bai Di , Zhang Chi , Liu Chaojie , Huang Genzhe
Published: July 2023

The corrosion behavior of 6082 aluminum alloy in deicing salt was investigated by electrochemical impedance spectra combined with an X‐ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction, and transmission electron microscope. The experiment results showed that the corrosion tendency of 6082 aluminum alloy in deicing salt strongly depends on its different matrix and grain boundary precipitates, which also show the characteristics of transformation during the corrosion process. The Nyquist plot exhibits the characteristics of double capacitive resistance arcs, and the capacitive resistance arcs were affected by corrosion characteristics and corrosion products on aluminum alloy surface. The nucleation and development of pitting and the formation of a passive film were closely related to the Si phase in the 6082 aluminum alloy.
Definition of dose rate for FLASH pencil‐beam scanning proton therapy: A comparative study
Authors: Deffet Sylvain , Hamaide Valentin , Sterpin Edmond
Published: July 2023

Background

FLASH proton therapy has the potential to reduce side effects of conventional proton therapy by delivering a high dose of radiation in a very short period of time. However, significant progress is needed in the development of FLASH proton therapy. Increasing the dose rate while maintaining dose conformality may involve the use of advanced beam‐shaping technologies and specialized equipment such as 3D patient‐specific range modulators, to take advantage of the higher transmission efficiency at the highest energy available. The dose rate is an important factor in FLASH proton therapy, but its definition can vary because of the uneven distribution of the dose over time in pencil‐beam scanning (PBS).

Purpose

Highlight the distinctions, both in terms of concept and numerical values, of the various definitions that can be established for the dose rate in PBS proton therapy.

Methods

In an in silico study, five definitions of the dose rate, namely the PBS dose rate, the percentile dose rate, the maximum percentile dose rate, the average dose rate, and the dose averaged dose rate (DADR) were analyzed first through theoretical comparison, and then applied to a head and neck case. To carry out this study, a treatment plan utilizing a single energy level and requiring the use of a patient‐specific range modulator was employed. The dose rate values were compared both locally and by means of dose rate volume histograms (DRVHs).

Results

The PBS dose rate, the percentile dose rate, and the maximum percentile dose are definitions that are specifically designed to take into account the time structure of the delivery of a PBS treatment plan. Although they may appear similar, our study shows that they can vary locally by up to 10%. On the other hand, the DADR values were approximately twice as high as those of the PBS, percentile, and maximum percentile dose rates, since the DADR disregards the periods when a voxel does not receive any dose. Finally, the average dose rate can be defined in various ways, as discussed in this paper. The average dose rate is found to be lower by a factor of approximately 1/2 than the PBS, percentile, and maximum percentile dose rates.

Conclusions

We have shown that using different definitions for the dose rate in FLASH proton therapy can lead to variations in calculated values ranging from a few percent to a factor of two. Since the dose rate is a critical parameter in FLASH radiation therapy, it is essential to carefully consider the choice of definition. However, to make an informed decision, additional biological data and models are needed.
Contributions towards variable temperature shielding for compact NMR instruments
Authors: Bornemann‐Pfeiffer Martin , Meyer Klas , Lademann Jeremy , Kraume Matthias , Maiwald Michael
Published: July 2023

The application of compact NMR instruments to hot flowing samples or exothermically reacting mixtures is limited by the temperature sensitivity of permanent magnets. Typically, such temperature effects directly influence the achievable magnetic field homogeneity and hence measurement quality. The internal‐temperature control loop of the magnet and instruments is not designed for such temperature compensation. Passive insulation is restricted by the small dimensions within the magnet borehole. Here, we present a design approach for active heat shielding with the aim of variable temperature control of NMR samples for benchtop NMR instruments using a compressed airstream which is variable in flow and temperature. Based on the system identification and surface temperature measurements through thermography, a model predictive control was set up to minimise any disturbance effect on the permanent magnet from the probe or sample temperature. This methodology will facilitate the application of variable‐temperature shielding and, therefore, extend the application of compact NMR instruments to flowing sample temperatures that differ from the magnet temperature.
Multigeneration Pedigrees to Monitor Hatchery Broodstock Composition and Genetic Variation of Spring/Summer Chinook Salmon in the Columbia River Basin
Authors: Horn Rebekah L. , Hess Maureen , Harmon Stephanie , Hess Jon , Delomas Thomas A. , Campbell Matthew R. , Narum Shawn
Published: July 2023

Hatchery production of Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha in the Columbia River basin comprises most of the anadromous salmonid production in this region. Hatchery facilities and programs serve to mitigate for impacts to salmonids due to the construction and operation of hydropower dams and habitat impacts from development in addition to the conservation and restoration of natural populations. A genetic method referred to as parentage-based tagging (PBT) enables highly reliable detection of hatchery-origin fish and inference of multigeneration pedigrees. This study compiles 11 years of PBT data from nearly 125,000 interior stream-type Chinook Salmon from 24 spawning hatcheries located on tributaries of the mid- and upper Columbia River and in the Salmon, Clearwater, and Grande Ronde River subbasins. Multigenerational pedigrees allowed for investigation of the proportions of natural- and hatchery-origin broodstock (pNOB and pHOB, respectively) for each hatchery and enumeration of the scale of production between segregated and integrated programs. We then compared how pHOB and the scale of production influenced the number of stray fish observed, genetic diversity, relatedness, and age-class compositions within broodstocks. Over 91.0% of hatchery broodstock could be assigned back to their parents, and overall less than 1.0% of broodstock consisted of fish that were unintentionally incorporated into nonnatal hatchery programs. We evaluated 11 segregated programs with 0.0–10.0% pNOB, 9 intermediate programs (10.1–50.0% pNOB), and 3 integrated programs (>50.0% pNOB). There was no correlation between the scale of production or pNOB with the level of genetic diversity, but as production size increased, so did the effective number of breeders. This study demonstrates the utility of PBT as a monitoring tool for hatchery broodstocks, and results suggest that segregated and integrated programs have tradeoffs that generally align with their intended broodstock management purpose of providing fish for harvest and/or fish for supplementation or reintroduction.
Combining expert knowledge of a threatened trout distribution with sparse occupancy data for climate-related projection
Authors: Chelgren Nathan D. , Dunham Jason B. , Gunckel Stephanie L. , Hockman-Wert David P. , Allen Chris S.
Published: July 2023

Objective

To evaluate the vulnerability of Bull Trout Salvelinus confluentus to potential climate changes across its range in Oregon, we compiled disparate expert knowledge of the distribution of spawning and rearing and combined these probabilistic statements as data along with documented records of breeding and rearing in a joint occupancy model.

Methods

The joint expert knowledge–occupancy model, which was based on discrete patches of cold water (≤13°C) suitable for spawning and rearing, permitted the association of true occupancy with climate and other explanatory variables while accounting for variation in detection probability. We then applied estimated relationships of patch occupancy with explanatory variables to projected coldwater patch configurations in the years 2040 and 2080.

Result

Projections of the kilometers of occupied coldwater patch in future decades suggest precipitous declines if current relationships of occupancy with environmental variables are maintained. Impacts of climate changes in future decades manifest directly through the outright loss of coldwater patches and increases in winter high flows but also indirectly by increased isolation.

Conclusion

Combining probabilistic statements of species distributions from knowledgeable experts with sparse occupancy data may be a robust and timely alternative when large numbers of repeated occupancy surveys are infeasible.
Devices to measure calf raise test outcomes: A narrative review
Authors: Fernandez Ma. Roxanne , Hébert‐Losier Kim
Published: July 2023

Background

The calf raise test (CRT) is commonly administered without a device in clinics to measure triceps surae muscle function. To standardise and objectively quantify outcomes, researchers use research‐grade or customised CRT devices. To incorporate evidence‐based practice and apply testing devices effectively in clinics, it is essential to understand their design, applicability, psychometric properties, strengths, and limitations. Therefore, this review identifies, summarises, and critically appraises the CRT devices used in science.

Methods

Four electronic databases were searched in April 2022. Studies that used devices to measure unilateral CRT outcomes (i.e., number of repetitions, work, height) were included.

Results

Thirty‐five studies met inclusion, from which seven CRT devices were identified. Linear encoder (n = 18) was the most commonly used device, followed by laboratory equipment (n = 6) (three‐dimensional motion capture and force plate). These measured the three CRT outcomes. Other devices used were electrogoniometer, Häggmark and Liedberg light beam device, Ankle Measure for Endurance and Strength (AMES), Haberometer, and custom‐made. Devices were mostly used in healthy populations or Achilles tendon pathologies. AMES, Haberometer, and custom‐made devices were the most clinician‐friendly, but only quantified repetitions were completed. In late 2022, a computer vision mobile application appeared in the literature and offered clinicians a low‐cost, research‐grade alternative.

Conclusion

This review details seven devices used to measure CRT outcomes. The linear encoder is the most common in research and quantifies all three CRT outcomes. Recent advances in computer‐vision provide a low‐cost research‐grade alternative to clinicians and researchers via a n iOS mobile application.
Study on statistical indicators of economic loss of major chemical accidents
Authors: Dai Caiyan , Xu Ming , Wang Wenkun , Ma Chenglong , Yang Lianqing
Published: July 2023

This paper summarizes the economic loss caused by chemical accidents in China, as well as the outstanding problems that need to be urgently solved. The affected parties of a major chemical accident are personnel, property, resources, the environment, and the social economy from the perspective of an accident target and emergency management. Economic losses of each type of accidental target include property losses, emergency disposal costs, and recovery/reconstruction costs. Based on this idea, a statistical system composed of 12 indicators for economic losses of major chemical accidents is established. The new statistical indicator of economic loss of major chemical accidents is more reasonable than the current statistical method of China's GB 6721‐86 “Standard,” and can fully reflect the harm due to major chemical accidents.
Population dynamics and molecular adaption of Tetranychus cinnabarinus to long‐term thermal stress
Authors: Chen Li , Ma Ting , Liu Jie , He Lin , Luo YanJie , Shen GuangMao
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Global warming is a general trend in the current era. Temperature is one of the most important nonbiological factors that affects the development, life cycle and distribution of arthropods, which are a major component of agriculture pests. This study focused on life‐table parameters and the molecular adaption of Tetranychus cinnabarinus under long‐term thermal stress.

RESULTS

The life tables of T. cinnabarinus were constructed at room temperature (26 °C) and high temperature (34 °C). Results showed that although the lifespan of the mites was shortened, the developmental periods of egg, larva and nymph stages were accelerated, and the peak egg‐laying period came earlier at high temperature, which resulted in faster expansion of pest mite population. RNA‐seq was used to reveal the thermal adaption mechanism according to differentially expressed genes. Combined with transcriptome data and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) verification, MAPK, CAT, HSP20 and HSP70 were found highly expressed at 34 °C, which were associated with thermal adaption of T. cinnabarinus. RNAi analysis proved that expression of HSP20 was closely related to the survival of mites at high temperature.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that long‐term high temperature treatment was beneficial to the expansion of the T. cinnabarinus population. The genes involved in heat tolerance of T. cinnabarinus such as MAPK‐HSP pathway provides ideas for subsequent control measures. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparative Studies of Graphene and Phosphorene Zigzag Edge Nanoribbons with Antidots
Authors: Krompiewski Stefan
Published: July 2023

Recently, there is much interest in narrow graphene‐like nanoribbons in view of their exceptional electronic and magnetic properties. Of special interest are ultranarrow zigzag edge nanoribbons because they can have magnetic moments at the edges. Of course, it is also well known that if there are antidots (nanopores) in a system, its physical properties are strongly affected, too. In this letter, the comparative studies of graphene and phosphorene nanoribbons are presented, with emphasis on edge as well as antidot effects. It is shown that phosphorene has quite large magnetic moments on both external and internal zigzag edges and it is a half‐metal for certain electron concentrations. So phosphorene is a very attractive material for spintronic applications.
River restoration works design based on the study of early‐stage vegetation development and alternate bar dynamics
Authors: Li Jiaze , Claude Nicolas , Tassi Pablo , Cordier Florian , Crosato Alessandra , Rodrigues Stéphane
Published: July 2023

Active geomorphological interventions, such as reprofiling of river bars, are often used to increase bar dynamics and prevent vegetation encroachment. River restoration management should be planned based on the knowledge of what processes will follow the intervention and on the anticipation of the consequences. However, in many cases, the associated physical processes are not clearly identified whereas their consequences on bar morphodynamics are still not fully understood. This study aims to bring new insights into the biomorphodynamics evolution of the riverbed after restoration works by using a 2D biomorphodynamic model developed in the TELEMAC‐MASCARET system. It seeks to compare and evaluate the performance of five bar reprofiling scenarios in which the bar elevation is lowered to just below the water level at specified design discharges. The study area is located in the channelized and regulated alpine gravel‐bed Isère River (France). Bar dynamics and early stages of vegetation establishment are analyzed for the first 2 years after each restoration scenario. The results indicate that plant colonization would occur in all cases. Overall, maximizing the reduction of bar height is the most effective way to improve the bar dynamics and limit future vegetation encroachment.
Psychiatric Comorbidities on an Inpatient Dermatology Consultation Service: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Norman Thomas , Guenther Jana , Vecerek Natalia , Adler Brandon L. , Crew Ashley , Worswick Scott
Published: July 2023

Despite the high prevalence of psychiatric illness in hospitalised dermatology patients, characterisation of psychiatric comorbidities on an inpatient dermatology consultation service in the United States has yet to be performed. To fill this gap in knowledge, we investigated the prevalence of and factors associated with psychiatric illness on the inpatient dermatology consultation service at the University of Southern California. Of the 429 patients seen by the dermatology consultation service between June 2021 to July 2022, 147 (34%) had psychiatric illness (defined as having at least 1 psychiatric diagnosis). Increasing age was associated with a decreased likelihood of psychiatric illness, while housing instability, chronic dermatologic disease, drug reaction, and pruritus without rash were associated with an increased likelihood of psychiatric illness. The high prevalence of psychiatric illness observed in hospitalised dermatology patients emphasises the importance of collaboration between consultant dermatologists and mental health specialists, particularly when specific sociodemographic or disease factors are present.
Ganciclovir-Induced Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms
Authors: Kitayama Shohei , Makino Teruhiko , Fujita Kuniko , Mori Shuichi , Furukawa Fumina , Kagoyama Ko , Mizawa Megumi , Shimizu Tadamichi
Published: July 2023

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a severe cutaneous adverse reaction involving multiorgan failure, with a complex interaction of various drugs, human herpesvirus reactivation and immune abnormalities suggested as the aetiology. We herein present the case of a 70-year-old man with a one-week history of fever, facial oedema, erythematous macules and purpura on his trunk and extremities. He had anti-TIF1γ antibody-positive dermatomyositis and was treated with prednisolone sodium succinate (20 mg/day). Three weeks earlier, he was treated with ganciclovir (250 mg/day) for 7 days to treat asymptomatic cytomegalovirus viraemia. Laboratory investigations revealed eosinophilia with atypical lymphocytes and elevated liver enzyme levels. A histological examination showed interface dermatitis with necrotic keratinocytes, perivascular infiltration of lymphocytes and eosinophils in the upper dermis and erythrocyte extravasation without vasculitis. A lymphocyte transformation test (LTT) was positive for ganciclovir (stimulation index: 260%; normal: <180%). We diagnosed DRESS caused by ganciclovir on the basis of clinical findings and course (Definite; RegiSCAR score: 7). He was treated with prednisolone sodium succinate (40 mg/day) and topical clobetasol propionate (0.05%) ointment twice daily. After the initiation of treatment, the skin lesions and laboratory abnormalities gradually improved. To our knowledge, this is the first case of DRESS caused by ganciclovir. The patients in whom ganciclovir is used are often immunosuppressed and may be overlooked as the causative drug for DRESS by conventional skin tests. We considered that LTT is useful for identifying causative drugs of DRESS, especially in immunosuppressed patients, such as the present case.
Ixekizumab-Induced Urticarial Drug Eruption
Authors: Kaneoka Ayaka , Saito-Sasaki Natsuko , Okada Etsuko , Sawada Yu
Published: July 2023

Biological agents targeting inflammatory skin diseases have dramatically overcome many of the limitations of older oral therapeutic options. Among the various biological agents, ixekizumab is a humanised monoclonal antibody that blocks the biological activity of IL-17A, which exhibited high efficacy against psoriasis. Although there are a limited number of cutaneous adverse reactions, biologic-induced type I allergic reactions are rare. Herein, we report a case of ixekizumab-induced urticaria.
Association between trajectories of maternal depressive symptoms and length of hospital stay, hospitalization costs, and adverse maternal and infantile outcomes: A longitudinal observational study
Authors: Sun Jiwei , Cui Naixue , Shao Di , Li Jie , Zhang Huihui , Li Jiahuan , Zhang Xuan , Cao Fenglin
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to determine the trajectories of perinatal depression and their relationship with length of hospital stay (LOS), hospitalization costs, and adverse maternal and infantile outcomes. This longitudinal observational study included 525 participants. Perinatal depressive symptoms were assessed at four waves (from the first trimester to the postpartum period). LOS, hospitalization costs, and adverse maternal (sleep, fatigue, anxiety, perceived stress, and memory problems) and infantile outcomes of participants were obtained from medical records and self‐reported questionnaires. Trajectories of perinatal depressive symptoms were explored with latent class growth analysis. Associations between trajectories and adverse maternal and infant outcomes were explored with multiple linear regression and binary logistic regression models. The participants' average age was 29.6 ± 3.9 years. Five heterogeneous developmental trajectories of perinatal depressive symptoms were identified as follows: high‐level (7.05%), moderate‐increasing (12%), remission (15.05%), moderate‐level (37.14%), and low‐level (28.76%). The average LOS was 5.78 ± 2.13 days, and the average hospitalization costs were 12,695.27 ± 5457.51 yuan. Compared with the trajectory of low‐level depressive symptoms, the LOS, hospitalization costs, and likelihood of adverse outcomes of women with high‐level and moderate‐increasing depressive symptom trajectories increased. The findings capture the heterogeneity of perinatal depression in Chinese women. Women in the moderate‐increasing and high‐level trajectory groups had longer LOS, more hospitalization costs, and poor birth outcomes. Elucidating the trajectories of perinatal depression and their relationship with maternal and infant health outcomes provides important insights into the development of person‐centred care planning for women during pregnancy and postpartum.