bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Segmenting and Classifiying the Brain Tumor from MRI Medical Images Based on Machine Learning Algorithms: A Review
Authors: Kareem Omar Sedqi , AL-Sulaifanie Ahmed Khorsheed , Hasan Dathar Abas , Ahmed Dindar Mikaeel
Published: July 2021

A brain tumor is a problem that threatens life and impedes the normal working of the human body. The brain tumor needs to be identified early for the proper diagnosis and effective treatment planning. Tumor segmentation from an MRI brain image is one of the most focused areas of the medical community, provided that MRI is non-invasive imaging. Brain tumor segmentation involves distinguishing abnormal brain tissue from normal brain tissue. This paper presents a systematic literature review of brain tumor segmentation strategies and the classification of abnormalities and normality in MRI images based on various deep learning techniques, interbreeding. It requires presentation and quantitative analysis, from standard segmentation and classification methods to the best class strategies.
Rehydration Characteristics of Mushrooms using Different Drying Techniques
Authors: Vinnakota Yesubabu , Yarlagadda Nagalakshmi
Published: July 2021

Mushroom may be baked, fried, boiled, creamed, roasted, pickled and stuffed. In India, it is mainly consumed fresh and a negligible amount is used for processing. They can be processed as canned, dried and frozen mushrooms. The dried mushrooms are packed in hermetically sealed air tight tins for quality retention and stored in a cool dry place. The study’s main objective is to know the effect of different drying methods on the quality of mushrooms and its dehydration, rehydration characteristics. Sun-drying and Cabinet tray drying methods were selected in the study. The rehydration ratio and coefficient of rehydration were calculated and compared for both the drying methods. An expert Committee did an Organoleptic evaluation. The results showed that cabinet tray dried mushrooms were reconstituted better compared to the sundried ones. The values of coefficient of rehydration and the rehydration ratio for cabinet dried mushrooms were found as 0.498 and 1:3.3 which were higher than sundried mushrooms. Cabinet tray dried mushrooms showed it’s superiority in sensory assessment. The study concluded that mushrooms dehydrated by the cabinet tray drying have better rehydration characteristics than sun drying.
Pond Renovation for Harvesting and Recycling of Rain Water: An Experimental Trial in Sub Himalayan Terai Region of India
Authors: Das Ganesh , Rahman F. H. , Saha Sankar , Hembram Sandip , Biswas Sujan , Sultana Samima , Sarkar Suraj , Saha Augustina , Bhattacharya R. , Ganguly Bablu , Mukherjee Rahul Deb , Roy Bikash , Pal Prabhat Kumar
Published: July 2021

Sub Himalayan Terai region of India falls under heavy rainfall zone and significant amount of rainfall occurs during Kharif season. Whereas in rabi season farmers struggle to cultivated crops due to shortage of water following minimum to no rainfall. To overcome the difficulty, Krishi Vigyan Kendra of this region had taken a initiative in the year 2011 to conserve rain water by renovating ponds so as to harvest and recycle the rain water under the project ‘National Initiative on Climate Resilient Agriculture’ (NICRA). Information on different aspect of livelihood status of farmers was collected from Khagribari village, Cooch Behar, West Bengal before and after renovating of the pond. Information collected before initiation and after implementation of the NICRA programme was statistically analyzed separately for pond owners and adjacent farmers to find out whether pond renovation programme has any significant effect in changing the livelihood status of pond owner and adjacent farmers. It is found from the study that renovation of pond had significantly impact on increasing potato, wheat and fish production and farmers net income generation.
Effect of Phosphorus and Sulphur Application on Growth and Yield Attributes of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L)
Authors: Yadav Kamlesh Kumar , Kumar Vineet , Raju . , Kumar Anuj , Sagar Vipin Kumar , Kumar Sandeep
Published: July 2021

A field experiment was conducted during summer season of 2015 at the Crop Research Centre of Department of Agriculture, Mata Gujri College, Sri Fatehgarh Sahib to study Response of phosphorus and sulphur application on Growth and yield attributes of mungbean (Vigna radiata L). The number of plants in meter row length was recorded highest with the application of 40 kg /ha followed by 20 kg S/ha and control. The highest plant height was recorded with the application of 40 kg S/ha which was statistically at par with application of 20 kg S/ha it was significantly superior over the control during all observation stages of crop. However at 30 and 60 DAS, the number of branches per plant recorded maximum with the application of 40 kg P2O5/ha followed by 60 kg P2O5/ha and control. At harvest, the application of 60 kg P2O5/ha recorded highest number of branches per plant but was statistically at par with other levels of phosphorus. The maximum number of grains per pod was recorded with the application of 60 kg P2O5/ha which was statistically at par with 40 kg P2O5/ha. It was found that the pod length was maximum with the application of 40 kg S/ha followed by 20 kg S/ha and control. The maximum grain yield was recorded with the application of 60 kg P2O5/ha which was significantly superior to other treatments.
Impacts of Rodents Pests on Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L): A Mini Review
Authors: Asunbo O. I.
Published: July 2021

Aim: To assess the impacts of rodent pests on Cocoa (Theobroma cacao) production and productivity.

Rodents belong to the mammalian order that is widely distributed globally. Their adaptive potential and capability to face changing environments even when instigated by anthropogenic activities is quite amazing. Also, their importance as vital links in food chain between species of plants and the predators thereby playing crucial roles within the ecosystem cannot be overemphasized. Rodents have been noted to cause ubiquitous damage to agricultural crops including cocoa. They can cause damage in crop fields from planting throughout harvest and storage. The damages caused by rodent pests mostly occur during the sensitive young seedling stage and just prior to harvesting. The pattern and the extent of damage by pest rodents depend upon the species, the intensity of infestation, the type and the growth stage of the crop, and the nature of the surrounding habitat. These damages caused by rodent pests could be direct through the consumption of cocoa beans or indirect through the biting, gnawing or scratching of pods which could range from slight to severe. The stern impacts caused as a result of rodent pest activities are not only felt in the quantity and quality of cocoa pods but also on the social maintenance as well as survival of those growing the crop. Despite the paucity of documented data as regards the kind, form as well as ferocity of rodent damage, it is highly expedient to re-evaluate the rodent pests’ impacts on the production of cocoa so as to update the very scarce available information whilst providing a basis for additional investigation.
Evaluation of Antacid Potential of Ayurvedic Poly-Herbal Formulation for Functional Dyspepsia
Authors: Kulkarni Alpana , Pandit Dinesh , Walke Sanket , Kolatkar Ajit
Published: July 2021

Aim: Ayurveda describes herbal or polyherbal or herbo-mineral medicines such as Avipattikar churna for treatment of Amlapitta, ajirna for centuries. Ayurvedic medicines are associated with limitations namely, palatability, stability and accuracy of dose. Ayurvedic medicines lack in adequate safety and efficacy evidence data. The aim of the study was to develop a stable and palatable Avipattikar suspension using recent formulation and analytical techniques. The study was also aimed at determination of acid neutralizing capacity of Avipattikar suspension and predicting its efficacy for treatment of Functional Dyspepsia and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder. Methods: Flocculated Avipattikar suspension was prepared using sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) as the suspending agent, sodium citrate as the flocculating agent, mannitol as a taste masking agent. Sodium carboxymethylcellulose, sodium citrate, Tween 80®, glycerin and mannitol were not used in Deflocculated Avipattikar suspension. The sedimentation volume, degree of flocculation, redispersibility and pH of the suspension was evaluated. The acid neutralization capacity of Avipattikar suspension was determined by Unite States Pharmacopoeia method.

Results: The present study successfully demonstrated formulation of stable Avipattikar suspension from Avipattikar churna.  The suspendability of sediment was retained for 15 days in presence of CMC. The results indicated that the acid neutralizing capacity of Avipattikar suspension (2.80 mMol of H+/ gm) was similar to that of the marketed antacid suspension (2.756 mMol of H+/ gm). The unpleasant taste of herbal drugs was masked satisfactorily.

Conclusion: Avipattikar suspension may be a cheaper, safer and effective alternative for current antacids for the treatment of functional dyspepsia.
Equisetum arvense L. Extract Ameliorates Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Testicular Injury Induced by Methotrexate in Male Rats
Authors: Alahmadi Ahlam A. , Abduljawad Eman A.
Published: July 2021

Methotrexate (MTX) is a cytotoxic drug used to treat a wide range of cancers and non-cancerous conditions. However, it can cause unfavorable acute toxic effects in several organs, including the testis.  Equisetum arvense L. (E. arvense) extract is effective in counteracting oxidative stress-related disorders. This study assessed the preventive effect of E. arvense extract against MTX-induced testicular toxicity. Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) was used to analyze the active constituents of E. arvense extract. Testicular toxicity was induced via MTX injection (0.5 mg/kg/ twice a week for 4 weeks). Forty male albino rats were divided into 4 groups: I- control (Cont); II: MTX; III: E. arvense (500 mg/kg/daily for 10 weeks); and IV: E. arvense + MTX. E. arvense main active constituents were squalane (15%), ascorbic acid per methyl (9.55%), phytol (8.69%), 2-pyrroline 1,2-dimethyl (8.63%), and octacosane (8.23%). Treatment of MTX injected rats with E. arvense produced a significant rise in body weight, serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone. E. arvense significantly increased the sperm counts, viability, and motility relative to the MTX injected rats. The levels of testicular oxidative stress and inflammation significantly reduced in the MTX rats treated with E. arvense. Furthermore, E. arvense markedly improved the testicular tissue and seminiferous tubules’ pathologic features in MTX-treated rats. E. arvense significantly decreased lipid peroxidation products, interleukin-1 beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha while increasing superoxide dismutase levels.  E. arvense prevented MTX-induced testicular damage via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.
Ecological factors affecting Infant at Work policies and programs in university settings
Authors: DeMaria Andrea L , Wierenga Madison , Kelly Kilian , Smith Sidney , Bohning Anna , Bauman Tessa , Schwab-Reese Laura
Published: July 2021

Objectives

This study identifies the ecological (ie, policy, environment, intrapersonal, and interpersonal) factors affecting the implementation of an Infant at Work program in a university setting.

Methods

Data were collected among faculty, staff, and graduate students at a large Midwestern university from February to July 2020 via focus group (FG) discussions with university employees (n = 22) and semistructured interviews with university administrators (n = 10). We used techniques from expanded grounded theory, allowing for a constant comparative approach to data contextualization and theme identification.

Results

Three themes emerged from the FG data: (i) program and policy scope, (ii) employee and employer benefits, and (iii) workplace concerns. Onsite daycares, flexible schedules and participation, and expanded childcare options were some of the programs and policies employees desired. However, barriers to implementing these types of programs include cost, safety, and structure of the work environment.

Conclusions

Findings offer practical recommendations and strategies to improve work/life balance among parents transitioning back to work in a university environment. Findings also provide insight into the feasibility of family-friendly workplace policies and environments. Additionally, findings provide a framework for other organizations to implement similar Infant at Work programs to improve employee work/life balance.
Structuring BaTiO3 /PDMS Nanocomposite via Dielectrophoresis for Fractional Flow Reserve Measurement
Authors: D'Ambrogio Giulia , Zahhaf Omar , Bordet Marine , Le Minh Quyen , Della Schiava Nellie , Liang Richard , Cottinet Pierre-Jean , Capsal Jean-Fabien
Published: July 2021

This work focuses on the development of piezoelectric sensors for the fractional flow reserve (FFR) technique, a procedure based on the measurement of blood pressure within a vessel to evaluate the severity of coronary stenosis. Considering the medical application, biocompatibility is a mandatory requirement that justifies the selection of fillers and matrix. Two composites made of lead‐free barium titanate nanoparticles (BaTiO3) incorporated in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomer are developed: the first composite with particles randomly dispersed and the second one with particles aligned along one direction, via an innovative technique known as dielectrophoresis. The experimental characterization indicates that the electroactive and dielectric properties are coherent with the models’ prediction, confirming that the alignment of the filler gives rise to considerably enhanced dielectric and piezoelectric proprieties relative to the random dispersion. Thermal stability together with X‐ray diffraction is conducted, demonstrating superior piezoelectric response of the structured sample under high‐temperature conditions. FFR application is then simulated by applying an arterial pulse‐shape stimulus on the developed sensor, which is finally integrated into a catheter and directly inserted in a simulation arm.
Hybrid Organic–Inorganic Halide Post‐Perovskite 3‐Cyanopyridinium Lead Tribromide for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Selivanov Nikita I. , Samsonova Anna Yu. , Kevorkyants Ruslan , Krauklis Irina V. , Chizhov Yuri V. , Stroganov Boris V. , Triantafyllou‐Rundell Marios E. , Bahnemann Detlef W. , Stoumpos Constantinos C. , Emeline Alexei V. , Kapitonov Yury V.
Published: July 2021

2D halide perovskite‐like semiconductors are attractive materials for various optoelectronic applications, from photovoltaics to lasing. To date, the most studied families of such low‐dimensional halide perovskite‐like compounds are Ruddlesden–Popper, Dion–Jacobson, and other phases that can be derived from 3D halide perovskites by slicing along different crystallographic directions, which leads to the spatially isotropic corner‐sharing connectivity type of metal‐halide octahedra in the 2D layer plane. In this work, a new family of hybrid organic–inorganic 2D lead halides is introduced, by reporting the first example of the hybrid organic–inorganic post‐perovskite 3‐cyanopyridinium lead tribromide (3cp)PbBr3. The post‐perovskite structure has unique octahedra connectivity type in the layer plane: a typical “perovskite‐like” corner‐sharing connectivity pattern in one direction, and the rare edge‐sharing connectivity pattern in the other. Such connectivity leads to significant anisotropy in the material properties within the inorganic layer plane. Moreover, the dense organic cation packing results in the formation of 1D fully organic bands in the electronic structure, offering the prospects of the involvement of the organic subsystem into material's optoelectronic properties. The (3cp)PbBr3 clearly shows the 2D quantum size effect with a bandgap around 3.2 eV and typical broadband self‐trapped excitonic photoluminescence at temperatures below 200 K.
Direct View on Non‐Equilibrium Heterogeneous Dynamics in Glassy Nanorods
Authors: Spangenberg Katharina , Hilke Sven , Wilde Gerhard , Peterlechner Martin
Published: July 2021

Amorphous solids are potential candidates for room temperature applications, such as structural materials, due to their outstanding mechanical properties. For the first time, the local atomic dynamics of amorphous metallic nanorods are spatially resolved at room temperature using electron microscopy. Methodologically, quasi‐equilibrium conditions are verified by two‐time correlation functions. FeNiP is chosen as a suitable model system since a bamboo structure forms upon electrodeposition into nanotubular confinement, consisting of thin Fe‐rich and Ni‐rich amorphous layers. Therefore, the present nano‐glassy structure allows studying the glass dynamics of two glassy phases at once, at the same time avoiding any preparation‐related structural artifacts of the intrinsically electron‐transparent samples. By comparing the local atomic mobility with the local composition and the local structural information of the glassy phases, correlations between medium‐range order and time scales of heterogeneous glassy dynamics are consistently obtained.
Use of Nanoformulation to Target Macrophages for Disease Treatment
Authors: Liu Xiangsheng , Xie Xiaodong , Jiang Jinhong , Lin Matthew , Zheng Emily , Qiu Waveley , Yeung Iwin , Zhu Motao , Li Qinglin , Xia Tian , Meng Huan
Published: July 2021

Macrophages are abundant immune cells, which serve as a primary cell population capable of interacting with foreign substances, including engineered nanomaterials (NMs). In addition to the phagocytic activity, macrophages also play a central role in innate immunity and contribute to the initiation of adaptive immunity. Since macrophages are a natural reservoir for NMs, nanoparticles (or nano‐enabled strategies) are commonly utilized to target this cell type and fine tune its polarization status in different disease scenarios. In this review, a high‐level description of macrophage biology is first introduced. It is followed by the discussion on the impact of therapeutic NMs on macrophages in solid tumors and how macrophages, in turn, impact the immune system and heterogeneity in the tumor microenvironment. Another major thrust is to discuss the applications of NMs in noncancer diseases with a focus on how NMs can be used to influence macrophages in the process of tissue repair, wound healing, myocardial infarction, and certain autoimmune diseases. In addition to the design of nanocarriers to impact macrophage function, whether the same response outcome can be achieved by intrinsic NM's physicochemical properties, allowing the potential usage of the active pharmaceutical ingredient‐free nanomaterials for therapeutic purposes, is also discussed.
Biocatalytic Nanomaterials: A New Pathway for Bacterial Disinfection
Authors: Fan Xin , Yang Fan , Nie Chuanxiong , Ma Lang , Cheng Chong , Haag Rainer
Published: July 2021

Clinical treatment of pathogenic infection has emerged as a growing challenge in global public health. Such treatment is currently limited to antibiotics, but abuse of antibiotics have induced multidrug resistance and high fatality rates in anti‐infection therapies. Thus, it is vital to develop alternative bactericidal agents to open novel disinfection pathways. Drawing inspiration from elements of the human immune system that show great potential for controlling pathogens or regulating cell apoptosis, the design of biocatalytic nanomaterials (BCNs) have provided unrivaled opportunities for future antibacterial therapies. More significantly, BCNs exhibit various superior properties to immune cells and natural enzymes, such as higher biocatalytic performance, extraordinary stability against harsh conditions, and scalable production. In this review, the most recent efforts toward developing BCN‐based biomedical applications in combating bacterial infections are focused upon. BCNs’ antibacterial mechanisms, the classification of BCNs, antibacterial activities that can be triggered or augmented by energy conversion, and the eradication of biofilms with BCNs are systematically introduced and discussed. The current challenges and prospects of BCNs for biocatalytic disinfection are also summarized. It is anticipated this review will provide new therapeutic insights into combating bacteria and biofilms and offer significant new inspiration for designing future biocatalytic nanomaterials.
Borophene and Boron‐Based Nanosheets: Recent Advances in Synthesis Strategies and Applications in the Field of Environment and Energy
Authors: Chand Hushan , Kumar Ashish , Krishnan Venkata
Published: July 2021

Since the discovery of borophene in 2014, tremendous efforts have been invested in exploring its synthesis methods as well as in exploiting the potential applications. Borophene has been progressively used in the field of chemistry, material science, nanotechnology, and condensed matter physics. This review discusses the physical (thermal, electronic, superconductive, and mechanical) and chemical properties of borophene followed by the advances in the experimental synthesis strategies and finally its applications in the field of environment and energy. Initially, the potential of borophene as a heterogeneous catalyst is discussed in CO2 reduction, N2 fixation, hydrogen evolution and oxygen evolution reactions followed by its use as a potential material for hydrogen storage, supercapacitors as well as its use as an anode material in batteries. Finally, a detailed summary followed by an outlook on the future potential of borophene as a remarkable material for environment and energy applications is presented.
Materials and Cytokines in the Healing of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Kim KaKyung , Mahajan Aryan , Patel Kamiya , Syed Shareef , Acevedo‐Jake Amanda M. , Kumar Vivek A.
Published: July 2021

Diabetes affects an increasing number of patients, and is associated with sustained and chronic inflammation. Complications arising from diabetes, including hypoxia, neuropathy, hyperglycemia, and ischemia that contribute to a delayed and reduced healing response result in chronic slow healing wounds. Here, key differences in native versus diabetic wound healing during each phase of healing are discussed, and the roles of cells and their secreted cytokines which regulate this process are outlined. Monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1) is a pro‐inflammatory mediator which plays a key role in modulating angiogenesis. Its importance in diabetic wound healing as well as recent work using MCP‐1 and similar chemokines to reduce inflammation and improve healing are reviewed. The delayed healing response observed in diabetic patients often results in the formation of slow healing wounds, commonly presenting in the lower extremities as diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs); classification systems and current treatment options for DFUs, including debridement, off‐loading, and amputation are outlined. Common dressing strategies are highlighted, and recent work developing biocompatible and bioactive hydrogels to address and hasten chronic wound healing is focused on.
New methods for the additive hazards model with the informatively interval‐censored failure time data
Authors: Zhao Bo , Wang Shuying , Wang Chunjie , Sun Jianguo
Published: July 2021

The additive hazards model is one of the most commonly used models for regression analysis of failure time data and many inference procedures have been developed for it under various situations. In particular, Wang et al. (2018a, Computational Statistics and Data Analysis, 125, 1–9) discussed the situation where one observes informatively interval‐censored data and proposed a likelihood estimation approach. However , it involves estimation of the unknown baseline cumulative hazard function and thus may be time‐consuming . Corresponding to this, we propose two new procedures, an estimating equation‐based one and an empirical likelihood‐based one, and both do not need estimation of the cumulative hazard function and can be easily implemented. The asymptotic properties of the proposed methods are established and an extensive simulation study suggests that they work well in practical situations. An application is also provided.
Bioanalytical RP‐HPLC method for the determination of ponazuril in plasma
Authors: Cox Sherry , Harvill Lainey , Singleton Sarah , Bergman Joan , DeBolt Becky
Published: July 2021

The goal of this investigation was to establish a reliable technique for the quantitation of ponazuril in limited sample volumes. Samples were extracted with chloroform and separation was achieved with a Symmetry RP18 column. Ultraviolet absorption was measured at 254 nm. A combination of 0.1% formic acid and acetonitrile (50:50) was used as the mobile phase. The calibration curve was linear from 0.1–25 μg/mL, with a lower limit of quantification of 0.1 μg/mL with a 100 μL sample. The precision and accuracy were well within the range set by the Food and Drug Administration and the recovery was over 95%. This technique was used to analyze ponazuril samples and found to be appropriate for pharmacokinetic studies.
Profiling COVID‐related experiences in the United States with the Epidemic‐Pandemic Impacts Inventory: Linkages to psychosocial functioning
Authors: Grasso Damion J. , Briggs‐Gowan Margaret J. , Carter Alice S. , Goldstein Brandon L. , Ford Julian D.
Published: July 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the lives of individuals, families, and communities around the world with constraints on multiple aspects of daily life. The purpose of the present study was to identify specific profiles of pandemic‐related experiences and their relation to psychosocial functioning using the 92‐item Epidemic‐Pandemic Impacts Inventory (EPII). Data were collected as part of a cross‐sectional, online survey of adults (18+) residing in the Northeast region of the United States (N = 652) and recruited via online advertisements. Person‐centered latent class analysis (LCA) was applied to 38 pandemic‐related experiences that showed a significant bivariate correlation with perceived stress. Measures of psychosocial risk were also obtained. Results revealed five unique profiles of respondents based on patterns of pandemic‐related experiences. Three profiles representing about 64% of the sample were characterized by moderate to high exposure to adverse experiences during the pandemic and were more likely to screen positive for depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress. These profiles were differentiated by sociodemographic differences, including age, caregiving, and employment status. Two profiles differentiated by age and caregiver status represented about 36% of the sample and were characterized by relatively low exposure to adverse experiences and lower risk for psychosocial impairment. Findings support the EPII as an instrument for measuring tangible and meaningful experiences in the context of an unprecedented pandemic disaster. This research may serve to identify high‐risk subpopulations toward developing public health strategies for supporting families and communities in the context of public health emergencies such as the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Zeolitic Vanadotungstates with Ultrahigh Porosities for Separation of Butane and Isobutane
Authors: Hu Panpan , Zhu Qianqian , Zhang Zhenxin , Li Yanshuo , Ueda Wataru
Published: July 2021

Zeolitic vanadotungstates with tunable microporosity have potential interests in gas separation. The pore openings of the materials are in between the diameters of normal butane and isobutane, which causes the materials only adsorb normal butane. The breakthrough experiments show that the materials effectively separate normal butane from the normal butane and isobutane mixture even at high temperatures. The robust materials can be reused without loss of the separation performance.
Limits of High Recovery Inland Desalination: Closed‐Circuit Reverse Osmosis – a Viable Option?
Authors: Futterlieb Martin , ElSherbiny Ibrahim M. A. , Tuczinski Marc , Lipnizki Jens , Panglisch Stefan
Published: July 2021

Cost‐efficient operation of inland brackish water reverse osmosis (BWRO) demands a high recovery. As recovery of BWRO is often limited to scaling, antiscalants (AS) are applied, whose environmental impact is disputed. In this paper, different systems (conventional single‐ and two‐stage plug flow RO (PFRO) and closed‐circuit RO (CCRO)) were simulated in various configurations (AS dosing, ion exchange (IEX) pretreatment, elements per vessel) to determine the recovery limiting factor for a hard feed. The novel proposed IEX‐CCRO reached the highest recovery without AS dosing. PFRO configurations had lower recoveries, mainly due to hydraulic limitations. Utilizing RO brine reduced both the water demand and salts necessary for IEX regeneration.
Long‐term outcomes in patients with normal coronary arteries, nonobstructive, or obstructive coronary artery disease on invasive coronary angiography
Authors: Hanson Christopher A. , Lu Edwin , Ghumman Saad S. , Ouellette Michelle L. , Löffler Adrián I. , Beller George A. , Bourque Jamieson M.
Published: July 2021

Background

Normal or near normal coronary arteries (NNCA) or nonobstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) are commonly found on invasive coronary angiography (ICA).

Hypothesis

We aimed to determine long‐term outcomes by severity of CAD in a contemporary cohort of patients undergoing ICA for evaluation for ischemic heart disease.

Methods

We assessed a consecutive cohort of 925 patients who underwent non‐emergent ICA over 24 months. Cardiac death (CD), nonfatal myocardial infarction (NFMI), late revascularization, and medication use were assessed.

Results

Follow‐up data was available in 850 patients. Of patients without heart failure, at a median of 6.0 years, there was a significant decrease in survival free from CD or NFMI, and from all cardiac events, for those with obstructive CAD compared with patients with NNCAs or nonobstructive CAD (p < .001 for both). No differences between NNCA and nonobstructive CAD patients in rates of CD or NFMI (2.0% vs. 2.1%/year, p = .58) or all cardiac events (2.4% vs. 2.9%/year, p = .84) were observed.

Conclusion

Long‐term follow‐up in a contemporary cohort of consecutive patients undergoing non‐emergent ICA for detection of CAD showed no difference in annual rates of CD or NFMI, or total cardiac events, in patients with NNCAs versus those with nonobstructive CAD, whereas patients with obstructive CAD had significantly more events. Event rates were low and similar by gender. Use of aspirin, lipid lowering therapy, and beta‐blockers increased in all subgroups after ICA. We speculate this may explain the low incidence of subsequent cardiac events, and similar event rates in patients with NNCA and nonobstructive CAD, even in patients presenting with non‐ST‐elevation MI.
Organization and neural connections of the lateral complex in the brain of the desert locust
Authors: Hensgen Ronja , Göthe Jonas , Jahn Stefanie , Hümmert Sophie , Schneider Kim Lucia , Takahashi Naomi , Pegel Uta , Gotthardt Sascha , Homberg Uwe
Published: July 2021

The lateral complexes (LXs) are bilaterally paired neuropils in the insect brain that mediate communication between the central complex (CX), a brain center controlling spatial orientation, various sensory processing areas, and thoracic motor centers that execute locomotion. The LX of the desert locust consists of the lateral accessory lobe (LAL), and the medial and lateral bulb. We have analyzed the anatomical organization and the neuronal connections of the LX in the locust, to provide a basis for future functional studies. Reanalyzing the morphology of neurons connecting the CX and the LX revealed likely feedback loops in the sky compass network of the CX via connections in the gall of the LAL and a newly identified neuropil termed ovoid body. In addition, we characterized 16 different types of neuron that connect the LAL with other areas in the brain. Eight types of neuron provide information flow between both LALs, five types are LAL input neurons, and three types are LAL output neurons. Among these are neurons providing input from sensory brain areas such as the lobula and antennal neuropils. Brain regions most often targeted by LAL neurons are the posterior slope, the wedge, and the crepine. Two descending neurons with dendrites in the LAL were identified. Our data support and complement existing knowledge about how the LAL is embedded in the neuronal network involved in processing of sensory information and generation of appropriate behavioral output for goal‐directed locomotion.
A comparison of non‐invasive methods of measuring body composition in patients with heart failure: a report from SICA‐HF
Authors: Shah Parin , Abel Alexandra A.I. , Boyalla Vennela , Pellicori Pierpaolo , Kallvikbacka‐Bennett Anna , Sze Shirley , Cleland John G.F. , Clark Andrew L.
Published: July 2021

Background

Cachexia is common in patients with chronic heart failure and is associated with poor prognosis. How best to measure body composition is not clear.

Methods and results

We characterized body composition in 120 patients with chronic heart failure: mean (SD) age 70 (10) years, left ventricular ejection fraction 44 (10) %, and median (Q1–Q3) N‐terminal pro B‐type natriuretic peptide 845 (355–1368) ng/L. We measured body composition using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and a multi‐frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) device (Tanita BIA MC‐180MA). Mean (SD) fat mass (FM) was 27.2 (11.7) kg by BIA and 32.3 (12.2) kg by DEXA (mean difference −5.1 kg, 95% limits of agreement: −11.7, 1.5; 4% of values outside limit of agreement); mean (SD) lean mass (LM) was 56.6 (10.9) kg by BIA and 51.1 (9.9) kg by DEXA (mean difference 5.5 kg, 95% limits of agreement: −1.3, 12.3; 6% of values outside limit of agreement); and mean (SD) bone mass (BM) was 3.0 (0.5) kg by BIA and 2.8 (0.6) kg by DEXA (mean difference 0.2 kg, 95% limits of agreement: −0.5, 0.8; 5% of values outside limit of agreement). There was a close correlation between DEXA and BIA for both LM and FM (LM: r = 0.95, P < 0.001; FM: r = 0.96, P < 0.001) but less so for BM (r = 0.84, P < 0.001). Both DEXA and BIA body composition measurements correlated well with other measures of body size (body mass index, hip circumference, and waist circumference).

Conclusions

There are differences in the measurements of FM, LM, and BM between the two techniques, which should not be used interchangeably.
New insights into the conversion of electropherograms to the effective electrophoretic mobility scale
Authors: Codesido Santiago , Drouin Nicolas , Ferré Sabrina , Schappler Julie , Rudaz Serge , González‐Ruiz Víctor
Published: July 2021

CE–MS is increasingly gaining momentum as an analytical tool in metabolomics, due to its ability to obtain information about the most polar elements in biological samples. This has been helped by improvements of robustness in peak identification by means of mobility‐scale representations of the electropherograms (mobilograms). As a necessary step toward facilitating the use of CE–MS for untargeted metabolomics data, the authors previously developed and introduced ROMANCE, a software automating mobilogram generation for large untargeted datasets through a simple and self‐contained user interface. Herein, we introduce a new version of ROMANCE including new features such as compatibility with other types of data (targeted MS data and 2D UV‐Vis absorption‐like electropherograms), and the much needed additional flexibility in the transformation parameters (including field ramping and the use of secondary markers), more measurement conditions (depending on detection and integration modes), and most importantly tackling the issue of quantitative peak conversion. First, we present a review of the current theoretical framework with regard to peak characterization, and we develop new formulas for multiple marker peak area corrections, for anticipating peak position precision, and for assessing peak shape distortion. Then, the new version of the software is presented and validated experimentally. We contrast the multiple marker mobility transformations with previous results, finding increased peak position precision, and finally we showcase an application to actual untargeted metabolomics data.
Characteristics of turbulence over the semi‐fixed desert area north of Xinjiang, China
Authors: Mamtimin Ali , Wang Yu , Sayit Hajigul , Yang Xing Hua , Yang Fan , Huo Wen , Zhou Chenglong , Jin Lili
Published: July 2021

As the largest fixed and semi‐fixed desert in China, the Gurbantünggüt Desert undergoes a long period of snow cover in the winter and the rapid growth of ephemeral plants in the spring, presenting obvious seasonal changes in the underlying desert surface type, which can lead to variation in the turbulence of the near‐surface boundary layer turbulence over the desert. In this study, gradient tower data and eddy covariance data from 2017 were analysed to investigate the turbulence characteristics of the different surface boundary layers in the hinterland of the Gurbantünggüt Desert. The results indicate that stable atmospheric conditions in the desert occur exclusively during the early morning and at night in the desert, and the onset and duration of this stable state varies seasonally. Two regimes of intermittent turbulence occur during the night, a weak turbulent regime that occurs when the wind speed is less than the threshold and a strong turbulent regime when the wind speed exceeds the threshold, and different wind speed thresholds were observed at each level. These parameters follow a seasonal pattern of summer (July) > spring (April) > autumn (October) > winter (January) in terms of magnitude. The mean turbulence intensities of the along‐wind, cross‐wind and vertical wind are 0.5, 0.47 and 0.14, respectively, with Iu > Iv > Iw. The normalized standard deviation of the wind velocity components (σu, σv and σw) generally satisfies a 1/3 power‐law relation. Our results show that the night‐time turbulence regime classification for the Gurbantünggüt Desert strongly depends on meteorological and orographic features, and the intermittent turbulent events have the non‐stationarity of the flow in common. The results can contribute to the study of land surface processes, climate change and desertification in inland arid desert areas.
Smouldering fire and emission characteristics of Eucalyptus litter fuel
Authors: Wang Houzhi , van Eyk Philip J. , Medwell Paul R. , Birzer Cristian H. , Tian Zhao F. , Possell Malcolm , Huang Xinyan
Published: July 2021

Eucalyptus is one of the most widespread genera around the world and a key element in recent wildfires. In a Eucalyptus forest, the accumulation of litter builds up a ground fuel layer that can support both flaming and smouldering wildfires. This work investigates the smouldering wildfire on leaf, bark, and twig beds (bulk density: 70‐140 kg/m3) of Eucalyptus species. Two‐stage smouldering spread processes are observed. The first‐stage smouldering fire has the peak temperature of 600°C‐700°C and spread rate of 5‐9 mm/min. The measured emission factors are 1000‐1500 g/kg (CO2), 180‐450 g/kg (CO), 9‐16 g/kg (CH4), and 2‐6 g/kg (H2), respectively. The CO/CO2 ratio ranges from 0.15 (leaf) to 0.8 (bark). Laboratory experiments demonstrate that the smouldering fire spread is slower in leaf than those in bark and twig. The burning of stringy barks is less complete, compared to smooth barks. For leaf and twig beds, the influence of Eucalyptus species and heating value on smouldering fire is negligible. This is the first work to reveal smouldering fire behaviors on different Eucalyptus litter fuels and provides valuable information for understanding the effects of Eucalyptus species and plant parts on smouldering combustion.
Associations of loneliness with poor physical health, poor mental health and health risk behaviours among a nationally representative community‐dwelling sample of middle‐aged and older adults in India
Authors: Pengpid Supa , Peltzer Karl
Published: July 2021

Objectives

Loneliness may negatively impact on health outcomes. The study aimed to estimate the associations between loneliness and poor physical health, poor mental health, and health risk behaviours in middle‐aged and older adults in a national population survey in India.

Methods

The sample included 72,262 middle‐aged and older adults from a cross‐sectional national community‐dwelling survey in India in 2017–2018.

Results

Results indicate that the prevalence of moderate loneliness was 20.5%, and severe loneliness was 13.3%. In the adjusted logistic regression analysis, moderate and/or severe loneliness was significantly positively associated with fair or poor self‐rated health status, and significantly negatively associated with life satisfaction and cognitive functioning. Furthermore, loneliness was associated with stroke, angina, physical injury, difficulty of Activities of Daily Living, difficulties of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living and multi‐morbidity. Loneliness increased the odds of major depressive disorder and insomnia symptoms. The associations between loneliness and current tobacco use and body mass index were negative and between loneliness and physical inactivity and underweight were positive.

Conclusions

Loneliness is associated with poor physical health, poor mental health and health risk behaviour (physical inactivity), emphasising the need to consider loneliness in various physical and mental health contexts.
Disentangling the welfarism/extra‐welfarism distinction: Towards a more fine‐grained categorization
Authors: Sakowsky Ruben Andreas
Published: July 2021

In health economics, the distinction between welfarism and extra‐welfarism has been employed to discuss various epistemological and normative differences between health evaluation approaches. However, a clear consensus on the definition of either welfarism, extra‐welfarism, or the differences between the two sets of approaches has not emerged. I propose an alternative set of distinctions that allows for a more fine‐grained categorization of health evaluation approaches. This categorization focuses on five dimensions: (1) the maximand of an evaluation approach, (2) its sensitivity toward normative concerns that defy compensation, (3) its position on which groups of individuals or collective entities act as sources of values, (4) its sensitivity to changes of mind, and (5) the inclusion of process‐external values.
Exploration of potential inhibitors for tuberculosis via structure‐based drug design, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation studies
Authors: Rajasekhar Sreerama , Karuppasamy Ramanathan , Chanda Kaushik
Published: July 2021

Drug resistance in tuberculosis is major threat to human population. In the present investigation, we aimed to identify novel and potent benzimidazole molecules to overcome the resistance management. A series of 20 benzimidazole derivatives were examined for its activity as selective antitubercular agents. Initially, AutodockVina algorithm was performed to assess the efficacy of the molecules. The results are further enriched by redocking by means of Glide algorithm. The binding free energies of the compounds were then calculated by MM‐generalized‐born surface area method. Molecular docking studies elucidated that benzimidazole derivatives has revealed formation of hydrogen bond and strong binding affinity in the active site of Mycobacterium tuberculosis protein. Note that ARG308, GLY189, VAL312, LEU403, and LEU190 amino acid residues of Mycobacterium tuberculosis protein PrpR are involved in binding with ligands of benzimidazoles. Interestingly, the ligands exhibited same binding potential to the active site of protein complex PrpR in both the docking programs. In essence, the result portrays that benzimidazole derivatives such as 1p, 1q, and 1 t could be potent and selective antitubercular agents than the standard drug isoniazid. These compounds were then subjected to molecular dynamics simulation to validate the dynamics activity of the compounds against PrpR. Finally, the inhibitory behavior of compounds was predicted using a machine learning algorithm trained on a data collection of 15,000 compounds utilizing graph‐based signatures. Overall, the study concludes that designed benzimidazoles can be employed as antitubercular agents. Indeed, the results are helpful for the experimental biologists to develop safe and non‐toxic drugs against tuberculosis.
Measures of emotion regulation: Convergence and psychometric properties of the difficulties in emotion regulation scale and emotion regulation questionnaire
Authors: Sörman Karolina , Garke Maria Å. , Isacsson Nils H. , Jangard Simon , Bjureberg Johan , Hellner Clara , Sinha Rajita , Jayaram‐Lindström Nitya
Published: July 2021

Objective

Investigating unique and shared aspects of measures of emotion regulation (ER) advances our understanding of ER as a multidimensional construct. This study aimed to investigate psychometric properties of three ER‐measures: Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS‐36), the abbreviated version DERS‐16, and Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ).

Methods

In a community sample (N = 843; 56% females) we investigated their internal consistency, factor structure, convergence, and association with symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress and substance abuse.

Results

The proposed factor structures of the DERS‐16 and the ERQ demonstrated an adequate fit. There were moderate correlations between the two DERS versions (36 and 16) and ERQ subscales Reappraisal and Suppression. Total scores of DERS‐36 and DERS‐16 demonstrated preferential associations with depression and anxiety. Corresponding associations between ERQ subscales and psychiatric symptoms were weak.

Conclusion

The results indicate that DERS‐16 could be useful as an alternative, easily administered measure of ER difficulties.
Feeding the future: developing the skills landscape in the agri‐food sector
Authors: Sims Cassie , Oddy Joseph , Hibbert Lauren E , Newell Amy S , Steel Luca Ruth , Gibbons Alastair T , Caporaso Nicola , Duménil Claire , Read Sophie , Margerison Reuben CP
Published: July 2021

The agri‐food sector and supply chain is a foundational component of society and is required for healthy populations across the globe. Feeding the world, not only with enough calories, but with nutritious food that has been sustainably sourced and processed, is a continuous and developing challenge. Despite this, careers in research and development opportunities in the agri‐food sector have less visibility in comparison to other sectors, and we argue that agri‐food remains under‐represented in education and training, from school through to higher education. In this perspective, we explore how diversity in people, skills and education contributes to the agri‐food sector, and how fostering this diversity could help to solve some of the big challenges faced in 2021 and beyond. Specific focus is given to education and training schemes, and the lack of agri‐food topics in relevant science degrees. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).