bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dose reduction in sequence scanning 4D CT imaging through respiratory signal‐guided tube current modulation: A feasibility study
Authors: Schwarz Annette , Werner René , Wimmert Lukas , Vornehm Marc , Gauer Tobias , Hofmann Christian
Published: October 2023

Background

Respiratory signal‐guided 4D CT sequence scanning such as the recently introduced Intelligent 4D CT (i4DCT) approach reduces image artifacts compared to conventional 4D CT, especially for irregular breathing. i4DCT selects beam‐on periods during scanning such that data sufficiency conditions are fulfilled for each couch position. However, covering entire breathing cycles during beam‐on periods leads to redundant projection data and unnecessary dose to the patient during long exhalation phases.

Purpose

We propose and evaluate the feasibility of respiratory signal‐guided dose modulation (i.e., temporary reduction of the CT tube current) to reduce the i4DCT imaging dose while maintaining high projection data coverage for image reconstruction.

Methods

The study is designed as an in‐silico feasibility study. Dose down‐ and up‐regulation criteria were defined based on the patients’ breathing signals and their representative breathing cycle learned before and during scanning. The evaluation (including an analysis of the impact of the dose modulation criteria parameters) was based on 510 clinical 4D CT breathing curves. Dose reduction was determined as the fraction of the downregulated dose delivery time to the overall beam‐on time. Furthermore, under the assumption of a 10‐phase 4D CT and amplitude‐based reconstruction, beam‐on periods were considered negatively affected by dose modulation if the downregulation period covered an entire phase‐specific amplitude range for a specific breathing phase (i.e., no appropriate reconstruction of the phase image possible for this specific beam‐on period). Corresponding phase‐specific amplitude bins are subsequently denoted as compromised bins.

Results

Dose modulation resulted in a median dose reduction of 10.4% (lower quartile: 7.4%, upper quartile: 13.8%, maximum: 28.6%; all values corresponding to a default parameterization of the dose modulation criteria). Compromised bins were observed in 1.0% of the beam‐on periods (72 / 7370 periods) and affected 10.6% of the curves (54/510 curves). The extent of possible dose modulation depends strongly on the individual breathing patterns and is weakly correlated with the median breathing cycle length (Spearman correlation coefficient 0.22, p < 0.001). Moreover, the fraction of beam‐on periods with compromised bins is weakly anti‐correlated with the patient's median breathing cycle length (Spearman correlation coefficient ‐0.24; p < 0.001). Among the curves with the 17% longest average breathing cycles, no negatively affected beam‐on periods were observed.

Conclusion

Respiratory signal‐guided dose modulation for i4DCT imaging is feasible and promises to significantly reduce the imaging dose with little impact on projection data coverage. However, the impact on image quality remains to be investigated in a follow‐up study.
Comparative review of algorithms and methods for chemical‐shift‐encoded quantitative fat‐water imaging
Authors: Daudé Pierre , Roussel Tangi , Troalen Thomas , Viout Patrick , Hernando Diego , Guye Maxime , Kober Frank , Confort Gouny Sylviane , Bernard Monique , Rapacchi Stanislas
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To propose a standardized comparison between state‐of‐the‐art open‐source fat‐water separation algorithms for proton density fat fraction (PDFF) and quantification using an open‐source multi‐language toolbox.

Methods

Eight recent open‐source fat‐water separation algorithms were compared in silico, in vitro, and in vivo. Multi‐echo data were synthesized with varying fat‐fractions, B0 off‐resonance, SNR and TEs. Experimental evaluation was conducted using calibrated fat‐water phantoms acquired at 3T and multi‐site open‐source phantoms data. Algorithms' performances were observed on challenging in vivo datasets at 3T. Finally, reconstruction algorithms were investigated with different fat spectra to evaluate the importance of the fat model.

Results

In silico and in vitro results proved most algorithms to be not sensitive to fat‐water swaps and offsets with five or more echoes. However, two methods remained inaccurate even with seven echoes and SNR = 50, and two other algorithms' precision depended on the echo spacing scheme (p < 0.05). The remaining four algorithms provided reliable performances with limits of agreement under 2% for PDFF and 6 s−1 for . The choice of fat spectrum model influenced quantification of PDFF mildly (<2% bias) and of more severely, with errors up to 20 s−1.

Conclusion

In promoting standardized comparisons of MRI‐based fat and iron quantification using chemical‐shift encoded multi‐echo methods, this benchmark work has revealed some discrepancies between recent approaches for PDFF and mapping. Explicit choices and parameterization of the fat‐water algorithm appear necessary for reproducibility. This open‐source toolbox further enables the user to optimize acquisition parameters by predicting algorithms' margins of errors.
Penalty hexahedral element formulation for flexoelectric solids based on consistent couple stress theory
Authors: Shang Yan , Deng Zhuo , Cen Song , Li Chen‐Feng
Published: October 2023

This work proposes a penalty 20‐node hexahedral element for size‐dependent electromechanical analysis based on the consistent couple stress theory. The nodal rotation degrees of freedom (DOFs) are used to approximate the mechanical rotation, meeting the C1 requirement in a weak sense by using the penalty function method, and to effectively enhance the standard isoparametric interpolation for determining the displacement test function. The normalized stress functions that satisfy the relevant equilibrium equation and strain compatibility equation a priori are employed to formulate the stress trial function. Since the element has only three displacement, three rotation and the electric potential DOFs per node, it has relatively simple formulation and can be readily incorporated into the existing finite element program. Several benchmarks are examined and the results demonstrate that the new element has good numerical accuracy and captures the size dependence effectively. In addition, the influence of the micro‐inertia on electromechanical dynamic responses of flexoelectric solids at small scale are analyzed using the proposed element. It is shown that the nature frequency decreases with the increase of micro‐inertia and in general, the influences are more obvious on higher order modes.
Efficacy of the Bonebridge BCI602 for Adult Patients with Single‐sided Deafness: A Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Kim Hantai , Park Moo Kyun , Park Shi Nae , Cho Hyong‐Ho , Choi Jae Young , Lee Chi Kyou , Lee Il‐Woo , Moon Il Joon , Jung Jae Yun , Jung Jinsei , Lee Kyu‐Yup , Oh Jeong‐Hoon , Park Hong Ju , Seo Jae‐Hyun , Song Jae‐Jin , Ha Jungho , Jang Jeong Hun , Choung Yun‐Hoon
Published: October 2023

Objective

To investigate the safety and efficacy of a novel active transcutaneous bone conduction implant (BCI) device for patients with single‐sided deafness (SSD).

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary referral hospitals.

Methods

This prospective multicenter study was conducted at 15 institutions nationwide. Thirty adult (aged ≥19 years) SSD patients were recruited. They underwent implantation of an active transcutaneous BCI device (Bonebridge BCI602). Objective outcomes included aided pure‐tone thresholds, aided speech discrimination scores (SDSs), and the Hearing in Noise Test (HINT) and sound localization test results. The Bern Benefit in Single‐Sided Deafness (BBSS) questionnaire, the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB) questionnaire, and the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) were used to measure subjective benefits.

Results

The mean aided pure‐tone threshold was 34.2 (11.3), mean (SD), dB HL at 500 to 4000 Hz. The mean total BBSS score was 27.5 (13.8). All APHAB questionnaire domain scores showed significant improvements: ease of communication, 33.6 (23.2) versus 22.6 (21.3), P = .025; reverberation, 44.8 (16.6) versus 32.8 (15.9), P = .002; background noise, 55.5 (23.6) versus 35.2 (18.1), P < .001; and aversiveness, 36.7 (22.8) versus 25.8 (21.4), P = .028. Moreover, the THI scores were significantly reduced [47.4 (30.1) versus 31.1 (27.0), P = .003]. Congenital SSD was a significant factor of subjective benefit (−11.643; 95% confidence interval: −21.946 to −1.340).

Conclusion

The BCI602 active transcutaneous BCI device can provide functional hearing gain without any adverse effects and is a feasible option for acquired SSD patients with long‐term deafness.
Positive Outcome Bias in the Influential Otolaryngology Clinical Trial Literature
Authors: Yang Hong‐Ho , Tsai Matthew , Mukdad Laith , St. John Maie
Published: October 2023

Objective

To assess for the presence of positive outcome bias in the otolaryngology clinical trial literature. Specifically, we investigate the prevalence of clinical trials with positive findings (CTP) and clinical trials with negative findings (CTN), as well as their quality of evidence and subsequent impact.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis.

Setting

Clinical Trials in the Influential Otolaryngology Literature.

Methods

We reviewed all clinical trials published in 4 major otolaryngology journals between 2000 and 2020. We constructed several multivariable regression models to investigate the relationship of finding direction with randomization status and citation count. Subsequently, we incorporated an interaction term between year and the primary covariate of each model to assess the temporal trajectory of these relationships. All models accounted for sample size, journal, subspecialty, and the affiliated program prestige.

Results

Of the 1367 trials analyzed, 1143 (84%) were CTPs, a rate that persisted throughout the study period (aOR 1.00, 95% CI 0.98‐1.03). CTPs were significantly less likely to be randomized compared to CTNs (aOR 0.25, 0.17‐0.37), a relationship that persisted over time (aOR 1.05, 0.99‐1.03). CTPs received significantly more citations compared to CTNs (aIRR 1.41, 1.25‐1.60), a disparity that also persisted over time (aIRR 0.99, 0.97‐1.01).

Conclusion

The otolaryngology clinical trial literature has been heavily dominated by positive findings. CTPs were more frequently cited and published even with a lower level of evidence compared to CTNs. This bias may influence the objectivity of evidence used to guide clinical practice and warrants attention when reviewing findings and changing practices.
“The Pedagogical Legacy of Dr. Chevalier Jackson: An Archival Visit to the John Q. Adams History Center at the American Academy of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery”
Authors: Alrassi James , Daniels Adam , Rosenfeld Richard M.
Published: October 2023

This article explores the historic records of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery's (AAO‐HNS) John Q. Adams Center for the History of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, with particular attention paid to the Dr. Chevalier Jackson Collection. The library houses diverse materials that would be of interest to medical historians seeking to understand the early innovations in our specialty. With a repository of over 2200 items chronicling over 200‐years of otolaryngological history, the library contains special collections dedicated to Drs. Maurice H. Cottle, Samuel Rosen, Adam Politzer, and Chevalier Jackson. An original aim of this visit sought to understand Dr. Jackson's early contributions to the fields of laryngology, bronchology, and esophagology; yet, an intimate review of his works, including autobiographical material, reveals a fascinating pedagogical legacy.
Operator Innovation Hasn’t Gone Out of Style
Authors: Pizzi Nick
Published: October 2023

The longer you operate a water utility, the greater the chance you’ll be required to start a new process, or even a new water treatment plant, from scratch. What took months to design and construct is now all yours to operate. You’ve got to be ready to start—now!
Use of a Novel Hypercrosslinked Carbohydrate Scaffold for Vocal Fold Medialization in an Ovine Model
Authors: Cates Daniel J. , Nachalon Yuval N. , Johnson Amanda L. , Lee Charles C. , Belafsky Peter C.
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Vocal fold medialization is commonly performed for glottic insufficiency and vocal fold immobility. Currently available materials are temporary injectables or synthetic implants. Acellular scaffolds may allow vocal fold augmentation with autologous tissue via host cell migration. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the use of a novel carbohydrate scaffold as a medialization implant.

Study Design

Animal model.

Setting

Academic medical center.

Methods

Unilateral type I medialization thyroplasty was performed in 3 Dorper cross ewes using a hypercrosslinked carbohydrate polymer (HCCP) scaffold. Animals were monitored for 4 weeks for general well‐being, dyspnea, and weight loss. The animals were euthanized at 4 weeks and the larynges harvested. Histologic evaluation was performed to assess for adverse tissue reaction, migration, degradation, and biocompatibility.

Results

No adverse events were reported. No animals lost weight or displayed evidence of dyspnea. Histology demonstrated ingrowth of host cells and neovascularization with minimal peri‐implant inflammatory reaction. Cellular ingrowth into the scaffold was predominately made up of fibroblasts and early inflammatory cells. Scaffold shape was grossly maintained as it underwent degradation and replacement with host tissue. Migration of the implant material was not observed.

Conclusion

Vocal fold medialization in an ovine model with an HCCP scaffold resulted in the ingrowth of host cells with minimal peri‐implant inflammation. Scaffold shape was maintained without evidence of migration as it underwent replacement with host tissue. Further research is required to assess long‐term efficacy in comparison to currently available implants.
Anisotropy and relaminarisation of the turbulent flow near a rotating cylindrical cavity wall
Authors: Hultsch Thomas , Rüdiger Frank , Stiller Jörg , Fröhlich Jochen
Published: October 2023

Rotor internal cooling is a new concept for high power density electric vehicle drives. A turbulent pipe flow is injected into a cylindrical cavity in the rotor shaft of the motor. The flow is deflected in the cavity, accelerated in circumferential direction by the rotor wall and exits through an annular duct with the outer wall rotating. Due to the opposing effects of rotation on turbulence, a complex transitional flow develops. The strong shear layer in the jet region causes high turbulence production. On the other hand, these fluctuations are damped by the centrifugal forces due to the flow rotation. To investigate the influences of the rotation on the turbulence properties and the mean flow, highly resolved large eddy simulations are performed. It is shown that the turbulence production and attenuation due to rotation affect different components of the Reynolds shear stress tensor. This results in highly anisotropic turbulence. In certain areas, where the turbulence attenuation is strongest, the flow even relaminarises. Since the cooling efficiency depends on the turbulent heat transfer of the flow, the local turbulence characteristics are key quantities for the cooling application.
Exploring quality evaluation markers of Fructus Psoraleae based on chemometric analysis integrated with network pharmacology
Authors: Zhao Yuting , Guo Junfeng , Mu Qixuan , Liu Ruojin , Liu Hui , Xu Yanyan , Li Yubo
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Fructus Psoraleae (FP) is a well‐known traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of osteoporosis. However, major quality differences were witnessed owing to its various origins, thus influencing its safety and efficacy.

Objectives

The study aimed to evaluate the quality of FP from different origins and predict its quality evaluation markers.

Methods

Ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry was employed for tentative characterisation of the constituents in 10 batches of FP, followed by the utilisation of multivariate statistical analysis methods including principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis for quality evaluation. Network pharmacology approaches were utilised to explore the underlying mechanism of the screened chemotaxonomic markers in treating osteoporosis.

Results

Forty‐one components in FP including, chalcones, coumarins, coumestans, flavonoids, iso‐flavonoids, and phenolics, were characterised based on their fragmentation pathways. Ten batches of FP were basically divided into three categories, and eight chemotaxonomic markers including isopsoralen, calamenene, bakuchiol, psoralen, bavachinin, isoneobavaisoflavone, corylifol C, and neobavaisoflavone were screened. Network pharmacology revealed that the chemotaxonomic markers can act on targets such as AKT1, HSP90AA1, and EGFR and possess effects mainly through glycolysis and wnt/β‐catenin signalling to alleviate osteoporosis. Molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation confirmed the good binding affinity and stability between proteins and selected markers. So, eight chemotaxonomic markers were all preferentially recommended as quality evaluation markers.

Conclusion

The study not only provides a reference for the improvement of quality control of FP but also offers a theoretical basis for its further in‐depth research in osteoporosis.
Avicennia germinans leaf traits in degraded, restored, and natural mangrove ecosystems of Guyana
Authors: Dookie Sabrina , Jaikishun Sirpaul , Ansari Abdullah Adil
Published: October 2023

Mangrove leaves have unique features that enable them to cope with shifting environmental conditions while preserving their general functionality and efficiency. We examined the morphological characteristics and chlorophyll content (spectroscopically) of 600 mature Avicennia germinans leaves selected from 30 trees located in one degraded, one restored, and one natural mangrove ecosystem along Guyana's coastline. Systematic sampling was carried out using the closest individual sampling method in the wet and dry seasons. We hypothesized that both habitat type and seasonality influence the leaf traits and chlorophyll content of A. germinans. Our findings showed that A. germinans leaves are mesophyllous, and traits such as leaf perimeter, area, length, width, dry mass, wet mass, turgid mass, leaf‐specific area, and relative water content showed fluctuations in ecosystems (one‐way ANOVA, p < .05) as well as seasonally (paired t‐test, p < .05). Substantial, positive correlations (p < .05, R > .75) were also established for over 10 leaf parameters in both seasons while PCA and multiple regression analyses further confirmed the strong relationships between leaf morphological features and their respective locations. Changes in chlorophyll concentration were most noticeable in the degraded ecosystem while variations in leaf traits were more pronounced in the restored mangrove area. This may be due to the various disturbances found in each ecosystem coupled with fluctuations in the seasons. Our results demonstrate that mangroves, to some extent, alter their plant structures to cope with environmental stressors present in the various ecosystems they thrive in to maintain their survival.
Substituted effects on bonding characteristics of cyclopentane‐1,3‐diyl diradicals monitored by time‐resolved infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Kondoh Masato , Kuboki Shunsuke , Kume Hidetaka , Oda Eriku , Abe Manabu , Ishibashi Taka‐aki
Published: October 2023

Cyclopentane‐1,3‐diyl diradicals (DRs) provide excellent opportunities to study the properties of diradicals because their lifetimes can be significantly lengthened to up to milliseconds with the introduction of proper substituents. This study investigated the bonding characteristics of singlet and triplet DRs having C=O and p‐cyanophenyl groups (S‐DR3 and T‐DR3) by monitoring the photo‐induced formation of the diradicals from their precursor azo compounds using time‐resolved IR (TR‐IR) spectroscopy. Upon the formation of S‐DR3, a C=O stretching wavenumber was upshifted by 22 cm−1, whereas a C≡N stretching one was downshifted by 12 cm−1. The observed shifts indicate that the unpaired electrons increase and decrease the C=O and C≡N bond orders, respectively. The effects of the unpaired electrons in S‐DR3 were similar to those observed in our previous TR‐IR studies on a singlet cyclopentane‐1,3‐diyl diradical having C=O but no C≡N groups (S‐DR2) and on that having C≡N but no C=O groups (S‐DR1), respectively. Contrastingly, upon the formation of T‐DR3, the C=O wavenumber was downshifted by 16 cm−1, indicating that the unpaired electrons decrease the C=O bond order. More notably, no detectable shifts were observed in the C≡N stretching wavenumber. These observations are not clearly explained by a model suggested in the previous studies on S‐DRs. Here, we discuss and propose a more elaborated resonance hybrid of DRs that can explain the directions and relative magnitudes of the observed wavenumber shifts irrespective of spin multiplicities. We expect that the findings and suggestions presented here will stimulate research in both organic and theoretical chemistry.
Double CRISPR knockout of pectin degrading enzymes improves tomato shelf‐life while ensuring fruit quality
Authors: Ortega‐Salazar Isabel , Crum Daphne , Sbodio Adrian O. , Sugiyama Yuko , Adaskaveg Adam , Wang Duoduo , Seymour Graham B. , Li Xueqi , Wang Selina C. , Blanco‐Ulate Barbara
Published: October 2023

Social Impact Statement

Tomato fruit is an important and popular commodity producing $95.62 billion worldwide. Tomato fruit losses in the supply chain vary between 25% and 42% depending on the production area and the availability of postharvest technologies. For many decades, conventional tomato breeding programs have focused on extending the shelf‐life of fresh‐market varieties. However, in many instances, consumer‐based quality traits were not considered a priority. Consumers are now demanding safe, nutrient‐rich, high‐flavor, and convenient fruit. Here, we demonstrate the use of gene editing to improve fruit shelf‐life and positively impact quality, which can help significantly reduce tomato fruit losses and meet consumer expectations.

Finding alternative ways to extend tomato fruit shelf‐life without reducing the quality is critical to ensure the accessibility and likeability of this commodity worldwide. Improving fruit firmness in tomato fresh‐market varieties directly impacts their shelf‐life potential. We simultaneously knocked out two pectin‐degrading enzymes, polygalacturonase (SlPG2a) and pectate lyase (SlPL), key for tomato fruit softening. We expected this gene‐editing approach to result in longer‐lasting fruit without negatively impacting consumer‐based quality attributes.

By generating the double clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) knockout PGPL, we evaluated the combined functions of SlPG2a and SlPL on fruit quality, including shelf‐life attributes like firmness and water loss, fruit marketability, and disease incidence. We also assessed additional attributes impacting consumer acceptance, such as taste and aroma.

We revealed that the enzymes SlPG2a and SlPL act additively, significantly impacting fruit firmness and shelf‐life, with the double CRISPR knockout PGPL outperforming the wild‐type fruit. Additionally, fruit quality traits, such as sugar: acid ratio, aroma volatiles, and skin color, were improved or not affected in the double CRISPR knockout PGPL compared to the wild‐type.

The discoveries of this research provide new insights into the influence of pectin backbone degradation on fruit physiology and postharvest quality, which can be used in crop improvement programs to make fruit more resilient in the supply chain without compromising quality.
Volume assured pressure support mode use for non‐invasive ventilation in pediatrics
Authors: Cithiravel Nisha , Xiao Lena , Shi Jenny , Chiang Jackie , Amin Reshma
Published: October 2023

There has been increasing interest in utilizing volume assured pressure support (VAPS) modes of ventilation for children, which historically had only been favored in adult populations. In addition to patients with obesity hypoventilation syndrome, newer pediatric populations for which it has recently been prescribed include congenital central hypoventilation syndrome and children with neuromuscular disease such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy. Given its expanding use in pediatrics, greater familiarity with VAPS is essential for pediatric pulmonologists and sleep physicians. This review article will highlight methods of initiation for this mode, specific ventilator settings, discussion of suitable pediatric patient populations, ventilator titrations via formal polysomnograms and detailed ventilator data downloads specific interpretation. Finally, common challenges to be aware of and how to troubleshoot relevant machine alarms will be reviewed.
Lethal and sublethal effects of carlina oxide on Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) and Neoseiulus californicus (Acari: Phytoseiidae)
Authors: Rizzo Roberto , Ragusa Ernesto , Benelli Giovanni , Lo Verde Gabriella , Zeni Valeria , Maggi Filippo , Petrelli Riccardo , Spinozzi Eleonora , Ferrati Marta , Sinacori Milko , Tsolakis Haralabos
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Tetranychus urticae Koch, is a polyphagous and damaging pest, presenting several resistant populations worldwide. Among new and more environmentally friendly control tools, botanical pesticides represent a valuable alternative to synthetic ones within integrated pest management strategies. Accordingly, we investigated the lethal and sublethal effects of carlina oxide isolated from Carlina acaulis (Asteraceae) roots on T. urticae and its natural enemy, the predatory mite, Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor).

RESULTS

Carlina oxide (98.7% pure compound) was used for acaricidal tests on eggs, nymphs, and adult females of T. urticae (concentrations of 312.5, 625, 1250, 2500 and 5000 μL L−1), and eggs and females of N. californicus (1250 and 5000 μL L−1 on eggs and females, respectively). Behavioral two‐choice tests were also conducted on phytoseiid females. Carlina oxide toxicity was higher on T. urticae females than nymphs (median lethal dose 1145 and 1825 μL L−1, respectively), whereas egg mortality and mean hatching time were significantly affected by all tested concentrations. A decreasing daily oviposition rate for T. urticae was recorded with concentrations ranging from 625 to 5000 μL L−1, whereas negative effects on the population growth rate were recorded only with the three higher concentrations (1250, 2500 and 5000 μL L−1). No toxic effect on N. californicus females was found, but a strong repellent activity lasting for 48 h from application was recorded.

CONCLUSION

Carlina oxide reduced longevity and fecundity of T. urticae adults, but not of N. californicus. This selective property allows us to propose it as a novel active ingredient of ecofriendly acaricides for T. urticae management. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
A comprehensive profiling of renin–angiotensin system in mouse and human plasma by a rapid quantitative analysis of 14 angiotensin peptides using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Liu Yamin , Li Linnan , Wang Zhengtao , Yang Li
Published: October 2023

Background

The renin–angiotensin system produces a series of biologically active angiotensin (Ang) peptides. These Ang peptides are the major regulators of blood pressure and Na homeostasis, and play a critical role in maintaining cardiovascular and fluid homeostasis. The concentration of Ang peptides in the body is at trace levels, making their detection and quantification a challenge. In this study, a rapid and sensitive analytical method using mass spectrometry coupled with ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC/MS) was developed to simultaneously quantify 14 Ang peptides.

Methods

UHPLC/MS was employed to quantify 14 Ang peptides in mouse and human plasma. An HSS T3 column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.8 μm) with an HSS T3 precolumn and triple‐quadrupole mass spectrometer combined with an electrospray ionization source were utilized. Sample pretreatment involved a one‐step protein precipitation using methanol. The total analysis time was within 7.5 min and the target peptides were detected in positive ion mode and quantified by selected reaction monitoring mode.

Results

The method was validated for linearity, detection and quantification limits, precision, stability, recovery and matrix effect. The limits of detection of Ang II, Ang III, Ang‐(1–7), Ang‐(2–7), Ang‐(3–7), Ang‐(1–9), bradykinin, Asn1 and Val5‐Ang II are all less than 1 pg mL−1, indicating high sensitivity. The intra‐day and inter‐day precision was within 15%, and the accuracy was between 85% and 115%. Meanwhile, the sample and reference solution were stable within 48 h, and the recovery and matrix effect met the quantitative requirements.

Conclusions

The method is currently reported to allow the largest number of Ang peptide species to be detected at one time. In addition, the proposed method offers a fast and reliable approach for comprehensive analysis of Ang metabolism in biological samples, facilitating research on the physiological and pathological states of cardiovascular, kidney and respiratory diseases.
Integrating grafting and companion planting to improve crop performance in intensive high‐tunnel tomato production
Authors: Ghanem Wadih , Kaplan Ian
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Tomatoes are among the most popular horticultural crops cultivated in high tunnels. Due to space limitations in these enclosed environments, some tomatoes are produced in succession (i.e., without rotation) across years, which could lead to yield reductions over time. However, the impact of tomato monocultures on productivity in high tunnels and strategies to buffer against yield declines need further testing.

Materials and Methods

We used a 4‐year field experiment whereby heirloom tomatoes (cv. Cherokee Purple and Black Krim) were grown in the same high tunnel soil over time. We tested the impact of both tomato grafting and companion planting on aboveground vegetative biomass and fruit yield. For the grafting treatment, we used the commercially available Maxifort and wild tomato, Solanum pimpinellifolium, as rootstocks. For companion planting, we seeded open alleys with clover and spatially shifted crop beds each year such that tomatoes were transplanted into the previous year's clover planting.

Results

Our data indicate that the companion (clover) treatment had little to no impact on tomato production, while grafting to Maxifort rootstock had a significant positive effect on biomass and yield. However, beneficial effects of grafting were only observed over time, in years three (+71% inc. in biomass) and four (+77% inc. in biomass, +38% inc. in yield) of the experiment; not during the initial 2 years. Leaf (SPAD) and fruit (Brix) metrics were unaffected by any of the treatments.

Conclusion

Overall, our results suggest that grafting tomatoes with commercially available rootstock is an effective tool for maintaining production in high tunnel monocultures over time.
Keystone predatory protists are associated closely with ammonia‐oxidizing microorganisms in an acidic Ultisol
Authors: Lin Yongxin , Ye Guiping , Hu Hang‐Wei , Ding Weixin , Fan Jianbo , He Zi‐Yang , He Ji‐Zheng
Published: October 2023

Predatory protists are widely recognized as critical biotic forces driving soil microbial communities, but their top‐down controls on ammonia‐oxidizing microorganisms (AOMs), the major players in nitrification, are largely unresolved. Here, we investigated the communities of predatory protists and their associations with AOMs using high‐throughput sequencing and network analysis in soil aggregates following various long‐term organic substitutions. We found that organic substitutions increased while soil aggregation decreased the alpha diversity of predatory protists. Predatory protistan communities were significantly associated with AOMs. Variosea, an important group of Amoebozoa, were the keystone predatory protists associated with the AOMs. Collectively, our findings highlight the importance of predatory protists, especially Variosea, in regulating the communities of AOMs in an acidic Ultsisol, with implications for managing nitrification by predatory protists in agricultural soils.
Sustainable redevelopment of urban areas: Assessment of key barriers for the reconstruction of old residential buildings
Authors: Van Nguyen Minh , Nguyen Tu Thanh , Phan Chien Thanh , Ha Khanh Duy
Published: October 2023

The deterioration of residential buildings presents challenges to the sustainable development of urban areas, necessitating their reconstruction. Notwithstanding the fundamental importance of reconstructing old residential buildings, their execution is hindered by numerous challenges, resulting in significant time consumption and difficulties. This study aims to establish a model that can be employed to assess the barriers to reconstructing old residential buildings. The proposed model comprises four sustainable groups, including environmental, social, economic, and technical barriers. While the economic barrier showed the highest coefficient in the barrier index equation, the environmental barrier exhibited the lowest coefficient. The suggested model will provide practitioners with a means to quantify the barriers that impede the sustainable development of old residential building reconstruction projects before implementation. Furthermore, the study's outcomes will guide investors in identifying key focus areas to enhance sustainable development through the reconstruction of old residential buildings.
Semiparametric normal transformation joint model of multivariate longitudinal and bivariate time‐to‐event data
Authors: Tang An‐Ming , Peng Cheng , Tang Niansheng
Published: October 2023

Joint models for longitudinal and survival data (JMLSs) are widely used to investigate the relationship between longitudinal and survival data in clinical trials in recent years. But, the existing studies mainly focus on independent survival data. In many clinical trials, survival data may be bivariately correlated. To this end, this paper proposes a novel JMLS accommodating multivariate longitudinal and bivariate correlated time‐to‐event data. Nonparametric marginal survival hazard functions are transformed to bivariate normal random variables. Bayesian penalized splines are employed to approximate unknown baseline hazard functions. Incorporating the Metropolis‐Hastings algorithm into the Gibbs sampler, we develop a Bayesian adaptive Lasso method to simultaneously estimate parameters and baseline hazard functions, and select important predictors in the considered JMLS. Simulation studies and an example taken from the International Breast Cancer Study Group are used to illustrate the proposed methodologies.
Recent Point of Care (PoC) Electrochemical Testing Trends of New Diagnostics Platforms for Vitamin D
Authors: Kirazoğlu Mervenur , Benli Birgül
Published: October 2023

Recent advancements in electrochemical sensors for the detection of vitamins, particularly vitamin D, have drawn a lot of attention due to their outstanding advantages of simplicity and high sensitivity. For the purpose of detecting vitamin D in this circumstance, recent research has focused on developing electrochemical sensors. Although there is always space for improvement, electrochemical sensors for vitamin D detection and its transformation into point‐of‐care devices have made great strides lately. For example, the development of innovative electrode materials that can increase sensitivity and selectivity continues to garner a lot of interest. New suggestions on adsorptive detections using vitamin D carriers like nanoclays or hydroxyapatite‐clay composites are being developed. These biosensors hold huge potential for the detection of cheap, disposable, and biodegradable solutions. Also, the biosensor could monitor the depletion of vitamin levels, providing a real‐time platform for the Internet of Medical Things, fifth‐generation wireless communications, and smartphone‐based electrochemical sensors. Currently, electrochemical sensors based on smartphones have been proposed to detect using various biomarkers for monitoring several changes in glucose, etc. We believe smartphone‐based electrochemical sensors and adsorptive sensing platforms provides a novel way toward point‐of‐care tests for identifying especially vitamin D deficiency and real‐time monitoring
New Coumarin−Thiosemicarbazone Based Zn(II), Ni(II) and Co(II) Metal Complexes: Investigation of Cholinesterase, α‐Amylase, and α‐Glucosidase Enzyme Activities, and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Çelik Esra , Özdemir Mücahit , Köksoy Baybars , Taskin‐Tok Tugba , Taslimi Parham , Sadeghian Nastaran , Yalçın Bahattin
Published: October 2023

New coumarin−thiosemicarbazone compounds and their zinc(II), nickel(II), and copper(II) metal complexes were synthesized and characterized. The inhibitory activities of these new coumarin−thiosemicarbazone‐based metal complexes against butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), α‐amylase, and α‐glucosidase were determined. The results showed that all the synthetic compounds exhibited potent inhibitory activities against all targets, as compared to the standard inhibitors, as revealed by the half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) and the inhibitory constant (Ki) values. The Ki values of the new complexes for BChE, AChE, and α‐glucosidase enzymes were obtained in the ranges of 115.84–276.07, 31.68–117.08, and 22.56–47.82 μM, respectively. Moreover, molecular docking studies provided support for the conclusion that coumarin−thiosemicarbazone zinc(II) (−102.34; −10.41 kcal/mol) and coumarin−thiosemicarbazone cobalt(II) complexes (−25.46; −9.49 kcal/mol) act as dual inhibitors for both AChE and α‐amylase species. Furthermore, coumarin−thiosemicarbazone cobalt(II) (−39.46 kcal/mol) and coumarin−thiosemicarbazone nickel(II) complexes (−39.41 kcal/mol) demonstrated potential as inhibitors of α‐glucosidase. Of all the compounds studied, bis‐3‐benzyl‐7,8‐dimethoxycoumarin−thiosemicarbazonato zinc(II) is the most potent drug against AChE.
A Semi‐Automatic Environmental Monitoring Device for Mercury and Cobalt Ion Detection
Authors: Chiou Yi‐Ru , Pang Hao‐Ming , Huang Yu‐Fen , Chen Chien‐Fu
Published: October 2023

A syringe‐based, semi‐automatic environmental monitoring device is developed for on‐site detection of harmful heavy metal ions in water. This portable device consists of a spring‐embedded syringe and a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane‐based flow regulator for semi‐automatic fix‐and‐release fluidic valve actuation, and a paper‐based analytical device (PAD) with two kinds of gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) for sensitive Hg2+ and Co2+ ion detection, respectively. The thickness of the elastic PDMS membrane can be adjusted to stabilize and modulate the flow rates generated by the pushing force provided by the spring attached to the plunger. Also, different spring constants can drastically alter the response time. People of all ages can extract the fix‐volume sample solutions and then release them to automatically complete the detection process, ensuring high reliability and repeatability. The PAD comprises two layers of modified paper, and each layer is immobilized with bovine serum albumin‐capped gold nanoclusters (R‐AuNCs) and glutathione‐capped gold clusters (G‐AuNCs), respectively. The ligands functionalized on the surface of the AuNCs not only can fine‐tune the optical properties of the nanoclusters but also enable specific and simultaneous detection of Hg2+ and Co2+ ions via metallophilic Au+–Hg2+ interaction and the Co2+–thiol complexation effect, respectively. The feasibility of the device for detecting heavy metal ions at low concentrations in various environmental water samples is demonstrated. The Hg2+ and Co2+ ions can be seen simultaneously within 20 min with detection limits as low as 1.76 nm and 0.27 µm, respectively, lower than those of the regulatory restrictions on water by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the European Union. we expect this sensitive, selective, portable, and easy‐to‐use device to be valid for on‐site multiple heavy metal ion pollution screenings in resource‐constrained settings.
Synchronous Surface‐Interface and Crystal‐Phase Engineered Multifaceted Hybrid Nanostructure of Fe‐(1T)‐VSe2 Nanosheet and Fe‐CoSe2 Nanorods Doped with P for Rapid HER and OER, Kinetics
Authors: Pan Uday Narayan , Kandel Mani Ram , Tomar Anuj Kumar , Kim Nam Hoon , Lee Joong Hee
Published: October 2023

Two different nanostructures of two dissimilar highly‐potent active electrocatalysts, P‐dopped metallic‐(1T)‐Fe‐VSe2 (P,Fe‐1T‐VSe2) nanosheet and P‐dopped Fe‐CoSe2 (P,Fe‐CoSe2) nanorods are hybridized and integrated into a single heterostructure (P,Fe‐(VCo)Se2) on Ni‐foam for high‐performance water splitting (WS). The catalytic efficiency of VSe2 nanosheets is first enhanced by enriching metallic (1T)‐phase, then forming bimetallic Fe‐V selenide, and finally by P‐doping. Similarly, the catalytic efficiency of CoSe2 nanorods is boosted by first fabricating Fe‐Co bimetallic selenide and then P‐doping. To develop super‐efficient electrocatalysts for WS, two individual electrocatalysts P,Fe‐1T‐VSe2 nanosheet and P,Fe‐CoSe2 are hybridized and integrated to form a heterostructure (P,Fe‐(VCo)Se2). Metallic (1T)‐phase of transition metal dichalcogenides has much higher conductivity than the 2H‐phase, while bimetallization and P‐doping activate basal planes, develop various active components, and form heterostructures that develop a synergistic interfacial effect, all of which, significantly boost the catalytic efficacy of the P,Fe‐(VCo)Se2. P,Fe‐(VCo)Se2 shows excellent performance requiring very low overpotential (ηHER = 50 mV@10 mAcm−2 and ηOER = 230 mV@20 mAcm−2). P,Fe‐(VCo)Se2 (+, −) device requires a cell potential of 1.48 V to reach 10 mA cm−2 for overall WS.
Stretchable hybrid platform‐enabled interactive perception of strain sensing and visualization
Authors: Liu Yikun , Gao Yongju , Kim Beom Jin , Xia Meili , Zhou Yunlong , Zhang Yongjing , Li Yang , Huang Jianying , Cao Duxia , Zhao Songfang , Ahn Jong‐Hyun , Lai Yuekun
Published: October 2023

Human–machine interactive platforms that can sense mechanical stimuli visually and digitally are highly desirable. However, most existing interactive devices cannot satisfy the demands of tactile feedback and extended integration. Inspired by the mechanoluminescence (ML) function of cephalopod skin and the sensitive perception of microcracked slit‐organs, a bioinspired stretchable interactive platform is developed by designing a stretchable poly(styrene‐block‐butadiene‐block‐styrene)/fluorescent molecule (SFM) composite followed by the in situ polymerization of pyrrole (Py) and deposition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which possesses a simple multilayered structure and quantitatively senses the applied strains via the variations of digital electrical resistance and visual fluorescence intensity. Using the strain‐dependent microstructures derived from the synergistic interactions of the rigid PPy/CNTs functional layer and SFM, the SFM/PPy/CNTs‐based platforms exhibit excellent strain‐sensing performance manifested by a high gauge factor (GF = 2.64 × 104), wide sensing range (~270%), fast response/recovery time (~155/195 ms), excellent stability (~15,000 cycles at 40% strain), and sensitive ML characteristics under ultraviolet illumination. Benefiting from the novel fusion of digital data and visual images, important applications, including the detection of wrist pulses and human motions, and information dual‐encryption, are demonstrated. This study demonstrates the superiority of advanced structures and materials for realizing superior applications in wearable electronics.
Zwitterion Reduces Open‐Circuit Voltage Loss in Wide‐Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cells with 22% Efficiency and Its Application in Tandem Devices
Authors: Han Xiaojing , Wang Jin , Jin Lu , Wang Pengyang , Shi Biao , Zhao Ying , Zhang Xiaodan
Published: October 2023

Wide‐bandgap (WBG) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) can be combined with other narrow‐bandgap cells to form tandem solar cells (TSCs), which have excellent commercialization prospects. However, the component of WBG perovskite is complex, and the crystallization process is difficult to control. Various bulk and surface defects in polycrystalline films lead to severe nonradiative recombination of photogenerated carriers, resulting in severe open‐circuit voltage (VOC) loss in WBG PSCs. Herein, a zwitterionic additive is introduced to alleviate the VOC deficit. The sulfinyl group (–SO) in formamidine sulfinic acid (FSA) has a robust interaction with Pb2+, which retards the crystallization and improves the crystal quality in perovskite films. Furthermore, FSA has negatively charged centers (–SO2−) and positively charged centers (–C(NH2)2+), which can passivate the halogen and cation vacancies, respectively. The improved crystalline quality and passivated defects reduce the capture of carriers by defects and facilitate higher VOC. With this strategy, the 1.68 eV bandgap PSCs achieve a champion efficiency of 22.06% and a high VOC of 1.25 V (VOC loss = 0.43 V). Moreover, the 2‐terminal perovskite/silicon TSCs are fabricated with an extraordinary power conversion efficiency of 28.81%.
Reticular Elastic Solid Electrolyte Interface Enabled by an Industrial Dye for Ultrastable Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Yingjiao , Yi Xianhui , Fu Hongwei , Wang Xiansi , Gao Caitian , Zhou Jiang , Rao Apparao M. , Lu Bingan
Published: October 2023

The solid electrolyte interface (SEI) is vital to the stability of alkali metal‐ion battery anodes. However, conventional SEIs that lack elasticity will be damaged during the anode's repeated volume expansion, such as in potassium‐ion battery anodes, ultimately resulting in cell failure. Herein, a low‐content additive (pigment green 7, 0.07 wt%) in a conventional carbonate electrolyte to create a reticular elastic SEI with excellent uniformity and good chemical stability is employed. As a result, long‐lasting K||K symmetric cell (over 1400 h), enhanced graphite anode (500 cycles with 97.9% capacity retention), and stabilized perylene‐3,4:9,10‐tetracarboxydiimide cathode (1200 cycles with 82.8% capacity retention) are achieved. Furthermore, the matched graphite||perylene‐3,4:9,10‐tetracarboxydiimide full cell operates stably for more than 200 cycles. This work provides a novel avenue into the rational design of elastic SEIs for advanced anodes.
Developments in Titanium‐Based Alkali and Alkaline Earth Metal Oxide Catalysts for Sustainable Biodiesel Production: A Review
Authors: Venkatesh Yatish Kalanakoppal , Ravikumar Mithun Prakash , Ramu Shwetharani , Ravikumar Chandan Hunsur , Mohan Sakar , Geetha Balakrishna R.
Published: October 2023

Biodiesel represents a biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Despite more than three decades of research, significant obstacles still hinder the widespread production of biodiesel. This current review elucidates both the potential and the existing challenges associated with homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts in catalyzing biodiesel production, with a particular focus on alkali analogues, alkaline earth metal oxides, and titania‐based catalysts. In particular, a comprehensive analysis is presented concerning alkali and alkaline earth‐based titania (TiO2) catalysts. Among these, the alkaline earth metal oxides, including lithium, calcium, and strontium when combined with titanium‐based catalysts, exhibit superior catalytic activity compared to other metal oxides, owing to their heightened basicity. Consequently, this review offers a thorough and up‐to‐date insight into the potential of titania‐based heterogeneous catalysts for advancing biodiesel production.