bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic Impacts of Environmentally Friendly Blocks: The Case of Nu-Rock Blocks
Authors: Tam V. W. Y. , Le K. N. , Illankoon I. M. C. S. , Tran C. N. N. , Rahme D. , Liu L.
Published: July 2023

There are numerous industry byproducts that have negative environmental impacts. Pond ash accumulated from coal power plants is one such byproduct that creates major environmental and social issues, especially with regard to decommissioning a coal power plant. Using pond ash in the block manufacturing process is a promising solution proposed by Nu-Rock. This research study evaluated the economic impact throughout the life cycle of Nu-Rock blocks. Nu-Rock block production use a technology called “Nu-creeting” in ash dams to prevent dust generation followed by the block manufacturing process using pond ash as a raw material. Nu-Rock technology can process approximately 250,000 tonnes of ash per annum and manufacture the equivalent of up to 330,000 tonnes volume of traditional building materials. This manufacturing process already generates jobs and pays tax and royalty fees to local governments, which is an added advantage. The total operating cost for 1 tonne of Nu-Rock blocks amounts to approximately AUD48, and the cost of a Nu-Rock block is AUD1.50–2.40, which is within the range of common bricks. Although there is a considerable initial cost to this process, it derives significant economic benefits in terms of manufacturing blocks using industrial byproducts, job creation and even tax revenue. Apart from these economic benefits, the Nu-Rock block manufacturing process generates environmental benefits through the reuse of pond ash from decommissioned coal power plants.
Composition of Alkali–Silica Reaction Products in Laboratory and Field Concrete
Authors: Tapas M. J. , Vessalas K. , Thomas P. , Gowripalan N. , Sirivivatnanon V.
Published: July 2023

This study investigated the composition of alkali–silica reaction (ASR) products formed in mortar and concrete that underwent accelerated ASR testing using two test methods: the accelerated mortar bar test (AMBT) and the simulated pore solution immersion test (SPSM). The composition of the ASR products formed in the accelerated tests was compared with those in a 25-year old bridge in New South Wales demolished due to ASR. Results showed that the ASR products inside an aggregate contained calcium (≈20%), silicon (≈60%), and alkalis (≈20%) regardless of the ASR test method used. The ASR products in the AMBT sample only contained sodium, whereas the ASR products in the SPSM test and the demolished bridge both contained significant amounts of sodium and potassium, which indicated that the type of alkali in the ASR product is largely affected by the dominant alkali in the pore solution. However, considering that the total alkali content (Na + K) in the ASR products was similar regardless of the ASR test method used, this suggests that the total alkali content has more influence on the rate of expansion than the type of alkali. The composition of the ASR products also notably varied depending on the location in the concrete. ASR products closer to the cement paste had a higher calcium and lower alkali content than those inside an aggregate, which suggests that the calcium as well as the alkali content of the ASR products plays a significant role in the degree of ASR expansion.
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of Recycled Concrete Incorporating Recycled Aggregate and Nanomaterials
Authors: Xing W. , Tam V. , Le K. , Hao J. L. , Wang J. , Yang P.
Published: July 2023

Nanotechnology is widely used in construction to advance high performance and durability materials, as represented by concrete, in which nanomaterials such as nanosilica (SiO2), nano-alumina (Al2O3), and nanotitanium oxide (TiO2) are used to replace cement as a partial binder. Suitable amounts of adding these nanomaterials are beneficial with regard to the mechanical, economic, and environmental aspects of concrete.
Analysis of the Compressive Strength of CO2 Concrete While Eliminating Overshadowing Concrete Variables
Authors: Tam V. W. Y. , Butera A. , Le K. N. , Liu L.
Published: July 2023

Although other technologies for the improvement of recycled aggregate, such as removal of adhered cement, improvement of aggregate by methods including nanomaterials, sequential mixing and precoating, the ideology of sequestration of CO2 into cementitious materials provides great potential for both the enhancement and utilisation of recycled concrete materials and sequestration of CO2.
Effects of Graphene Oxide Content on the Reinforcing Efficiency of C–S–H Composites: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Chen W. , Xiang J. , Gao Y. , Zhang Z.
Published: July 2023

Determining the graphene oxide (GO) content is the key to applying GO to reinforce the mechanical performance and durability of cementitious composites. However, most of the previous studies are conducted from the perspective of experiments and lack elaboration on the mechanism of the GO-reinforced cementitious composite under different GO content. Hence, we investigated the effect of GO content on the reinforcing efficiency of calcium–silicate–hydrate (C–S–H) to trade off the enhancement of GO in cementitious composites and the corresponding economic benefits. The results demonstrated that an appropriate number of GO nanosheets can reinforce the cementitious composite with simultaneous high enhancing efficiency and economic benefits. The microdamage evolution of GO/C–S–H composites and the GO reinforcing mechanisms are reported. Our findings deepen the understanding of the enhancing mechanisms of GO embedded in C–S–H nanocomposites and help to determine the suitable GO content in practical engineering.
Investigation of ASR Effects on the Load-Carrying Capacity of Reinforced Concrete Elements by Ultra-Accelerated Laboratory Test
Authors: Cao J. , Gowripalan N. , Sirivivatnanon V. , Nairn J.
Published: July 2023

The alkali–silica reaction (ASR) can cause expansion, cracking, and degradation of the mechanical properties of affected concrete. Concerns about the safety of ASR-damaged reinforced concrete structures have driven the demand for studying the effects of ASR on residual load capacity of the deteriorated structure. Conventionally, field load testing methods are used to assess the residual load capacity of ASR-affected structures. In this study, a novel accelerated laboratory test using the LVSA 50/70 autoclave to accelerate ASR was applied to investigate the flexural and shear behavior of small-scale reinforced concrete beams affected by ASR. The specimens were subjected to three cycles of 80 °C steam curing at atmospheric pressure in the autoclave, with 60 h/cycle. Significant expansion and ASR damage were observed. Load carrying capacity tests on the small-scale reinforced concrete beams showed that, at the expansion levels achieved, the flexural capacity of the reinforced concrete beams was not significantly affected. Shear resistance of the reinforced concrete beams, however, was found to increase compared with their 28-day counterparts, which could be attributed to the prestressing effect due to ASR expansion. It appears that the multicycle 80 °C steam-curing autoclave test is suitable for investigating ASR deterioration of actual concrete mixes within a short period of time. ASR effects on the load carrying capacity of reinforced concrete elements at higher expansion levels, however, need further investigation.
3D printed Ultra-High Performance Concrete: Preparation, Application, and Challenges
Authors: Bai G. , Chen G. , Li R. , Wang L. , Ma G.
Published: July 2023

3D printed ultra-high performance concrete (3DP-UHPC) plays an important role in the realization of ultra-high compressive and tensile strengths. Considering the particular characteristics of UHPC, the conversion of UHPC to 3DP-UHPC is a complex phenomenon and has been the subject of numerous studies. It is very important to be able to design a thixotropic structure in the early hydration stage for bridging the gap between the slow setting of UHPC and the rapid setting of the 3D printing procedure. In the design and application of 3DP-UHPC, requirements such as the ratio of coagulant and flocculant, fiber alignment, reinforced 3D printed no-rebar reinforced concrete, safety, cost etc. need to be taken into account. We present a comprehensive review of 3DP-UHPC in concrete construction from preparation to application, including design method, raw materials, mechanical, reinforced methods, and applications. Finally, recommendations are provided to promote the application of 3DP-UHPC in engineering practice.
Biosensing systems for the detection and quantification of methane gas
Authors: Poma Noemi , Bonini Andrea , Vivaldi Federico , Biagini Denise , Di Luca Mariagrazia , Bottai Daria , Di Francesco Fabio , Tavanti Arianna
Published: July 2023

Climate change due to the continuous increase in the release of green-house gasses associated with anthropogenic activity has made a significant impact on the sustainability of life on our planet. Methane (CH4) is a green-house gas whose concentrations in the atmosphere are on the rise. CH4 measurement is important for both the environment and the safety at the industrial and household level. Methanotrophs are distinguished for their unique characteristic of using CH4 as the sole source of carbon and energy, due to the presence of the methane monooxygenases that oxidize CH4 under ambient temperature conditions. This has attracted interest in the use of methanotrophs in biotechnological applications as well as in the development of biosensing systems for CH4 quantification and monitoring. Biosensing systems using methanotrophs rely on the use of whole microbial cells that oxidize CH4 in presence of O2, so that the CH4 concentration is determined in an indirect manner by measuring the decrease of O2 level in the system. Although several biological properties of methanotrophic microorganisms still need to be characterized, different studies have demonstrated the feasibility of the use of methanotrophs in CH4 measurement. This review summarizes the contributions in methane biosensing systems and presents a prospective of the valid use of methanotrophs in this field.

Key points

• Methanotroph environmental relevance in methane oxidation

• Methanotroph biotechnological application in the field of biosensing

• Methane monooxygenase as a feasible biorecognition element in biosensors
Previous radiotherapy improves treatment responses and causes a trend toward longer time to progression among patients with immune checkpoint inhibitor-related adverse events
Authors: Jokimäki Anna , Hietala Henna , Lemma Jasmiini , Karhapää Hanna , Rintala Anna , Kaikkonen Jari-Pekka , Sunela Kaisa , Boman Eva , Jukkola Arja , Tiainen Satu , Seppälä Jan , Rönkä Aino , Hakkarainen Heikki , Kärnä Aarno , Iivanainen Sanna , Koivunen Jussi , Auvinen Päivi , Hernberg Micaela , Kuusisto Milla , Selander Tuomas , Kuittinen Outi
Published: July 2023

Background

Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are frequently encountered by patients during immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment and are associated with better treatment outcomes. The sequencing of radiotherapy (RT) and ICIs is widely used in current clinical practice, but its effect on survival has remained unclear.

Methods

In a real-world multicenter study including 521 patients who received ICI treatment for metastatic or locally advanced cancer, RT schedules and timing, irAEs, time to progression, overall survival, and treatment responses were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Patients who received previous RT and developed irAE (RT +/AE +) had the best overall response rate (ORR 44.0%). The ORR was 40.1% in the RT −/AE + group, 26.7% in the RT −/AE − group and 18.3% in the RT + /AE − group (p < 0.001). There was a significantly longer time to progression (TTP) in the RT + /AE + group compared to the RT −/AE − and RT + /AE − groups (log rank p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively), but the trend toward longer TTP in the RT + /AE + group did not reach statistical significance in pairwise comparison to that in the RT −/AE + group. Preceding RT timing and intent had no statistically significant effect on TTP. In a multivariate model, ECOG = 0 and occurrence of irAEs remained independent positive prognostic factors for TTP (HR 0.737; 95% CI 0.582–0.935; p = 0.012, and HR 0.620; 95% CI 0.499–0.769; p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

Better ORR and a trend toward longer TTP were demonstrated for patients with RT preceding ICI treatment and development of irAEs, which suggests that RT may boost the therapeutic effect of immunotherapy in patients with metastatic cancers.
Cadaver Study on Transoral Thyroid Chondrolaryngoplasty and Transoral Sistrunk Operation, Possibility from Transoral Thyroidectomy
Authors: Li Hok Nam , Chan Peter Wing Hong , Tong Michael Chi Fai
Published: July 2023

Objective

Transoral approaches in surgery are gaining global popularity. Transoral endoscopic and robotic thyroidectomies are well established due to the benefit of being truly scarless. Thyroid chondrolaryngoplasty reduces protrusion of the thyroid notch in transgender patients. The Sistrunk operation involves removal of the thyroglossal cyst and the central portion of the hyoid bone. In this cadaveric study, we developed a transoral thyroidectomy approach and assessed the feasibility of applying this technique to thyroid chondrolaryngoplasty and Sistrunk operation with the proper usage of a special endoscopic burr.

Methods

We performed surgery using the transoral vestibular approach with 13 fresh‐frozen human cadavers. Unlike transoral thyroid surgery, which requires high‐resolution detailed anatomical view, this technique uses a 5‐mm 30‐degree endoscope with a 5‐mm central port. A smaller central port can reduce the risk of mental nerve paresthesia. A special endoscopic burr for functional endoscopic sinus surgery is used to thin the thyroid notch cartilage and cut the central portion of the hyoid bone.

Results

We successfully performed transoral thyroid chondrolaryngoplasty and transoral Sistrunk operation in 13 cadavers.

Conclusion

Transoral chondrolaryngoplasty and transoral Sistrunk operation are feasible for transgender or thyroglossal cyst patients. It offers the additional benefit of being a scarless surgery and could play a promising role in minimally invasive thyroid surgeries. Proper use of an endoscopic drilling burr to thin thyroid notch cartilage and cutting the central portion of the hyoid bone can make transoral thyroid chondrolaryngoplasty and transoral Sistrunk operation safe and feasible.
Surgical Site Infections During the Pandemic: The Impact of the “COVID Bundle”
Authors: McLoughlin Louise Catherine , Perlis Nathan , Lajkosz Katherine , Boasie Alexandra , Esmail Tariq , Nielson Chantelle , Lavrencic Natalia , Jackson Timothy , Kulkarni Girish S.
Published: July 2023

Background

A reduction in surgical site infections (SSIs) has been reported in several discrete patient populations during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Herein, this study evaluates the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on SSI in a large patient cohort incorporating multiple surgical disciplines. We hypothesize that enhanced infection control and heightened awareness of such measures is analogous to an SSI care bundle, the hypothetical “COVID bundle”, and may impact SSI rates.

Method

Data collected for the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program between January 1, 2015, and April 1, 2021, were retrospectively analyzed. SSI rates were compared among time‐dependent patient cohorts: Cohort A (pre‐pandemic, N = 24,060, 87%) and Cohort B (pandemic, N = 3698, 13%). Time series and multivariable analyses predicted pre‐pandemic and pandemic SSI trends and tested for association with timing of surgery.

Results

The overall SSI incidence was reduced in Cohort B versus Cohort A (2.8% vs. 4.5%, p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis indicated a downward SSI trend before pandemic onset (IRR 0.997, 95% CI 0.994, 1). At pandemic onset, the trend reduced by a relative factor of 39% (IRR 0.601, 95% CI 0.338, 1.069). SSI then trended upward during the pandemic (IRR 1.035, 95% CI 0.965, 1.111). SSI rates significantly trended downward in general surgical patients at pandemic onset (IRR 0.572, 95% CI 0.353, 0.928).

Conclusion

Although overall SSI incidence was reduced during the pandemic, a statistically significant decrease in the predicted SSI rate only occurred in general surgical patients at pandemic onset. This trend may suggest a positive impact of the “COVID bundle” on SSI rates in these patients.
Predicting visual recovery in pituitary adenoma patients post-endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery: Harnessing delta-radiomics of the optic chiasm from MRI
Authors: Zhang Yang , Zheng Junkai , Huang Zhouyang , Teng Yuen , Chen Chaoyue , Xu Jianguo
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To investigate whether morphological changes after surgery and delta-radiomics of the optic chiasm obtained from routine MRI could help predict postoperative visual recovery of pituitary adenoma patients.

Methods

A total of 130 pituitary adenoma patients were retrospectively enrolled and divided into the recovery group (n = 87) and non-recovery group (n = 43) according to visual outcome 1 year after endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery. Morphological parameters of the optic chiasm were measured preoperatively and postoperatively, including chiasmal thickness, deformed angle, and suprasellar extension. Delta-radiomics of the optic chiasm were calculated based on features extracted from preoperative and postoperative coronal T2-weighted images, followed by machine learning modeling using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator wrapped with support vector machine through fivefold cross-validation in the development set. The delta-radiomic model was independently evaluated in the test set, and compared with the combined model that incorporated delta-radiomics, significant clinical and morphological parameters.

Results

Postoperative morphological changes of the optic chiasm could not significantly be used as predictors for the visual outcome. In contrast, the delta-radiomics model represented good performances in predicting visual recovery, with an AUC of 0.821 in the development set and 0.811 in the independent test set. Moreover, the combined model that incorporated age and delta-radiomics features of the optic chiasm achieved the highest AUC of 0.841 and 0.840 in the development set and independent test set, respectively.

Conclusions

Our proposed machine learning models based on delta-radiomics of the optic chiasm can be used to predict postoperative visual recovery of pituitary adenoma patients.

Clinical relevance statement

Our delta-radiomics-based models from MRI enable accurate visual recovery predictions in pituitary adenoma patients who underwent endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery, facilitating better clinical decision-making and ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Key Points

• Prediction of the postoperative visual outcome for pituitary adenoma patients is important but challenging.

• Delta-radiomics of the optic chiasm after surgical decompression represented better prognostic performances compared with its morphological changes.

• The proposed machine learning models can serve as novel approaches to predict visual recovery for pituitary adenoma patients in clinical practice.
Evaluation of ceftriaxone pharmacokinetics in hospitalized Egyptian pediatric patients
Authors: Eldougdoug Mohamed W. , Youssef Doaa M. , El-Shal Amal S. , Sharaf Yasmine Ahmed , Raparla Sridivya , Jasti Bhaskara R. , Elnahas Hanan M.
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to evaluate ceftriaxone pharmacokinetics that affects the achievement of targets in the treatment of critically ill children (meningitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, peritonitis, and infective endocarditis( who were admitted to Zagazig University Pediatric hospital in Egypt to monitor for the drug adverse effects.

Blood samples were obtained from 24 hospitalized pediatric patients (ages ranging from 2.5 months to 12 years) after administering the calculated dose of ceftriaxone via intravenous bolus route. Then, ceftriaxone plasma concentrations were measured using a validated HPLC method with ultraviolet detection. The pharmacokinetic analysis was conducted using Phoenix Winnonlin Program® software.

Data for total and free ceftriaxone best fitted on a one-compartment model with the first-order elimination process. Clearance of ceftriaxone is reduced for patients with reduced kidney function and increased with those with augmented renal clearance. The volume of distribution and the free fraction are increased in these patients, especially those with hypoalbuminemia with a shorter half-life time were detected. A slight increase in total bilirubin and liver enzymes has been observed after treatment with ceftriaxone in these patients.

  Conclusion: In most critically ill pediatric patients, the current ceftriaxone treatment regimen (50 to 100 mg/kg) offers adequate pathogenic coverage. The clearance of free ceftriaxone in all patients correlates well with their renal function (eGFR), with r2 = 0.7252. During therapy with ceftriaxone at all doses ranging from 50 to 100 mg/kg, a rise in total bilirubin was observed in these patients. Moreover, liver enzymes (ALT and AST) increased moderately (p 0.0001). So, it is recommended to monitor total bilirubin and liver enzymes during the treatment with ceftriaxone, especially for a long duration (more than 5 days) or use another agent in patients with high baseline values.

What is Known:• The dosing regimen of ceftriaxone (50 to 100 mg/kg) provided optimum therapeutic outcomes.• Some studies show data for total and free Ceftriaxone best fitted on a one-compartment model while other studies show data for total and free Ceftriaxone best fitted on a two-compartment model.

What is New:• Up to my knowledge this is the first study ,considering individual pharmacokinetic analysis, conducted on hospitalized Egyptian pediatric population most of them with reduced kidney function with ages ranging from 2.5 months to 12 years. Data for total and free Ceftriaxone best fitted on a one-compartment model with linear clearance of the free ceftriaxone.• In all patients, total bilirubin and liver function tests were mildly increased, making them at risk for cholestasis or ceftriaxone-induced cholestatic hepatitis.
Inflammatory biomarker signatures in post-surgical drain fluid may detect anastomotic leaks within 48 hours of colorectal resection
Authors: Cuff S. M. , Reeves N. , Lewis E. , Jones E. , Baker S. , Karategos A. , Morris R. , Torkington J. , Eberl M.
Published: July 2023

Background

The optimal treatment of colorectal cancer is surgical resection and primary anastomosis. Anastomotic leak can affect up to 20% of patients and creates significant morbidity and mortality. Current diagnosis of a leak is based on clinical suspicion and subsequent radiology. Peritoneal biomarkers have shown diagnostic utility in other conditions and could be useful in providing earlier diagnosis. This pilot study was designed to assess the practical utility of peritoneal biomarkers after abdominal surgery utilising an automated immunoassay system in routine use for quantifying cytokines.

Methods

Patients undergoing an anterior resection for a rectal cancer diagnosis were recruited at University
Hospital of Wales, Cardiff between June 2019 and June 2021. A peritoneal drain was placed in the proximity of the anastomosis during surgery, and peritoneal fluid was collected at days 1 to 3 post-operatively, and analysed using the Siemens IMMULITE platform for interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10, CXCL8, tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and C-reactive protein (CRP).

Results

A total of 42 patients were recruited (22M:20F, median age 65). Anastomotic leak was detected in four patients and a further five patients had other intra-abdominal complications. The IMMULITE platform was able to provide robust and reliable results from the analysis of the peritoneal fluid. A metric based on the combination of peritoneal IL-6 and CRP levels was able to accurately diagnose three anastomotic leaks, whilst correctly classifying all negative control patients including those with other complications.

Conclusions

This pilot study demonstrates that a simple immune signature in surgical drain fluid could accurately diagnose an anastomotic leak at 48 h postoperatively using instrumentation that is already widely available in hospital clinical laboratories.
Impact of high consistency enzymatic hydrolysis and defibration drying on cellulose fiber pore characteristics
Authors: Dahiya Deepika , Ceccherini Sara , Maloney Thad C.
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine the hornification of enzymatically hydrolyzed high consistency softwood kraft pulp in an experimental defibration dryer. This device dries pulp under turbulent conditions which can prevent interfiber bonding and produce a separated fiber population. This is useful in certain applications, such as composites, which require dry, unbonded pulp fibers. In this study, we examine how fibrillated pulps behave in the dryer with respect to pore expansion in hydrolysis and collapse in drying (hornification). It was found that the endoglucanase cocktail increased the micro-, meso-, and macropore volumes as a function of hydrolysis time. Drying decreased the pore volumes of each size category, with the biggest changes in the macropore region. The pulp with the highest swelling after hydrolysis had the lowest swelling after drying. The mesopores that were formed in hydrolysis were somewhat preserved after drying. After drying, unfibrillated pulp had good fiber separation, while the highly fibrillated samples formed sub-millimeter, spherical particles.
Eco-friendly Biodegradation of Hydrocarbons Compounds from Crude Oily Wastewater Using PVA/Alginate/Clay Composite Hydrogels
Authors: Farid Eman , Kamoun Elbadawy A. , Taha Tarek H. , El-Dissouky Ali , Khalil Tarek E.
Published: July 2023

Immobilized microorganisms especially bacteria are most used rather than free cells to be protected from the environmental conditions when being used for the bioremediation of environmental pollutants. Herein, two marine’s bacterial isolates were tested for their ability to decompose crude oil. The optimum conditions for effective bacterial degradation e.g., pH, temperature, and inoculum size were investigated. PVA-alginate-clay composite hydrogel beads with different types of incorporated mineral clays were prepared and tested as bacterial carrier for potential bioremediation. Synthesized composite hydrogels were physico-chemically characterized by FTIR, SEM, and thermal analyses. Results showed that, embedded degrading bacteria in PVA-alginate beads recorded degradation rates as 74 and 66.6% for both tested bacterial isolates (S and R) compared to 61.2 and 53% degradation rates by free cells, respectively. Where, attapulgite clay-containing beads recorded maximum degradation% as 78.8 and 75% for both bacterial isolates, when added to immobilization matrices and these percentages could be enhanced under optimal conditions. The 16S rRNA gene of the two marine oils degrading bacterial isolates were amplified and sequenced, where both isolates were identified asPseudomonas stutzeriandRhodococcus qingshengiiwith submitted accession numbers of ON908963 and ON908962, respectively. These results are referring to the ability of using both tested isolates for crude oil bioremediation process and embedded them into PVA-alginate-clay beads as hydrogel carrier under the optimum conditions.
Generation and application of avatars in pharmacometric modelling
Authors: Chasseloup Estelle , Hooker Andrew C. , Karlsson Mats O.
Published: July 2023

Simulations from population models have critical applications in drug discovery and development. Avatars or digital twins, defined as individual simulations matching clinical criteria of interest compared to observations from a real subject within a predefined margin of accuracy, may be a better option for simulations performed to inform future drug development stages in cases where an adequate model is not achievable. The aim of this work was to (1) investigate methods for generating avatars with pharmacometric models, and (2) explore the properties of the generated avatars to assess the impact of the different selection settings on the number of avatars per subject, their closeness to the individual observations, and the properties of the selected samples subset from the theoretical model parameters probability density function. Avatars were generated using different combinations of nature and number of clinical criteria, accuracy of agreement, and/or number of simulations for two examples models previously published (hemato-toxicity and integrated glucose-insulin model). The avatar distribution could be used to assess the appropriateness of the models assumed parameter distribution. Similarly it could be used to assess the models ability to properly describe the trajectories of the observations. Avatars can give nuanced information regarding the ability of a model to simulate data similar to the observations both at the population and at the individual level. Further potential applications for avatars may be as a diagnostic tool, an alternative to simulations with insurance to replicate key clinical features, and as an individual measure of model fit.
New methods for quantifying the effects of catchment spatial patterns on aquatic responses
Authors: Weller Donald E. , Baker Matthew E. , King Ryan S.
Published: July 2023

Context

Previous studies developed distance-weighted regression to describe how land use effects on aquatic systems attenuate with arrangement of source areas within catchments.

Objectives

We clarify and extend the conceptual foundations of this approach, enhance the spatial and statistical methods, and provide new tools to interpret the results.

Methods

We derive the framework from first principles to resolve conceptual issues with how weighting is applied to source area versus total area, and we formalize the requirements for an ideal weighting function. We quantify the spatial distributions of land areas in a way that integrates with model fitting. We adapt non-linear optimization to simultaneously fit regression and weighting parameters. We quantify the spatial distribution of source effects with arrangement and document how different weighting functions alter that distribution.

Results

To verify their utility, we applied these methods to a published analysis relating polychlorinated biphenyls in fish to developed land use in catchments. We identified a stronger distance-weighted model and more completely characterized the effects of weighting on where aquatic impacts originate.

Conclusions

Our methods enable more comprehensive analyses of the effects of spatial arrangement to better inform a wide range of scientific investigations and applications. Our methods can relate almost any spatially distributed source or driver to an integrated response at a point or along a boundary; and alternate hypotheses about the effects of pattern or proximity on processes can be tested with alternative weighting functions. New applications will generate additional weighting functions that enhance the general approach.
Modulating cyclic nucleotides pathways by bioactive compounds in combatting anxiety and depression disorders
Authors: Gutiérrez-Rodelo Citlaly , Martínez-Tolibia Shirlley Elizabeth , Morales-Figueroa Guadalupe Elide , Velázquez-Moyado Josué Arturo , Olivares-Reyes J Alberto , Navarrete-Castro Andrés
Published: July 2023

Anxiety and depression disorders are highly prevalent neurological disorders (NDs) that impact up to one in three individuals during their lifetime. Addressing these disorders requires reducing their frequency and impact, understanding molecular causes, implementing prevention strategies, and improving treatments. Cyclic nucleotide monophosphates (cNMPs) like cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), cyclic uridine monophosphate (cUMP), and cyclic cytidine monophosphate (cCMP) regulate the transcription of genes involved in neurotransmitters and neurological functions. Evidence suggests that cNMP pathways, including cAMP/cGMP, cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), and Protein kinase A (PKA), play a role in the physiopathology of anxiety and depression disorders. Plant and mushroom-based compounds have been used in traditional and modern medicine due to their beneficial properties. Bioactive compound metabolism can activate key pathways and yield pharmacological outcomes. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms of bioactive compounds from plants and mushrooms in modulating cNMP pathways. Understanding these processes will support current treatments and aid in the development of novel approaches to reduce the prevalence of anxiety and depression disorders, contributing to improved outcomes and the prevention of associated complications.

Graphical abstract
A comparative study on transient vibration suppression of magnetic nonlinear vibration absorbers with different arrangements
Authors: Guo Muxuan , Tang Lihua , Wang Hongyan , Liu Haipeng , Gao Shiqiao
Published: July 2023

Nonlinear vibration absorbers (NVA) using magnets feature ease of implementation and outstanding tunability and have attracted much interest in vibration suppression in recent years. Through configuration design and optimization, magnetic NVA can exhibit different nonlinear characteristics such as monostability, bistability and tristability. This work performs a comprehensive comparative study on the transient vibration suppression performances of the NVAs with four different magnet arrangements based on the cantilever beam design, including the NVA with two repulsive magnets (2RMNVA), two attractive magnets (2AMNVA), three repulsive magnets (3RMNVA) and three attractive magnets (3AMNVA). Based on the dipole–dipole model of magnets, the dynamic model of the system containing different magnetic NVAs is established for numerical simulation and the key parameters of each NVA are optimized under different excitation levels. The influence of parameters on different magnetic NVAs is investigated. Based on the optimization configurations, the rate of the energy dissipation from the primary structure by different magnetic NVAs is compared by wavelet transform analysis. The results show that due to the largest oscillations of crossing outmost wells, the optimized 3RMNVA and 3AMNVA are the preferred configurations for magnetic NVA under different excitation levels. Meanwhile, through the verification and comparison with reported designs, the effectiveness of the optimization method and the optimized NVAs in this paper are confirmed. This work provides the approach and guidelines to design the effective NVA to suppress transient vibrations.
Monitoring prestress in plates by sideband peak count-index (SPC-I) and nonlinear higher harmonics techniques
Authors: Wang Meng , Pau Annamaria , Zhang Guangdong , Kundu Tribikram
Published: July 2023

Propagating guided waves in a homogeneous, isotropic, prestressed, hyperelastic plate show nonlinear characteristics that depend on the state of initial prestress. These nonlinear phenomena include higher harmonic generation, occurring when Lamb wave modes of different frequencies ($$\omega _a$$

ω
a

and $$\omega _b$$

ω
b

) are allowed to mix within the material generating secondary waves at frequencies $$2\omega _a,2\omega _b\, \text {and}\,\omega _a\pm \omega _b$$

2

ω
a

,
2

ω
b

and

ω
a

±

ω
b

. Further, if prescribed internal-resonance conditions are satisfied, the amplitude of secondary waves increases in space, providing a response quantity which is dependent on prestress and easy to be observed. Using the finite element method, in this paper we investigate the time and space evolution of higher harmonics arising in one-way wave mixing. The influence of prestress on the response is elucidated, observing the nonlinear parameter $$\beta $$
β
. It is further shown that the nonlinear ultrasonic technique called sideband peak count-index (SPC-I) can provide an effective monitoring tool for prestress.
Are Si–C bonds formed in the environment and/or in technical microbiological systems?
Authors: Rücker Christoph , Winkelmann Magnus , Kümmerer Klaus
Published: July 2023

Organosiloxanes are industrially produced worldwide in millions of tons per annum and are widely used by industry, professionals, and consumers. Some of these compounds are PBT (persistent, biaccumulative and toxic) or vPvB (very persistent and very bioaccumulative). If organosiloxanes react at all in the environment, Si–O bonds are hydrolyzed or Si–C bonds are oxidatively cleaved, to result finally in silica and carbon dioxide. In strong contrast and very unexpectedly, recently formation of new Si–CH3bonds from siloxanes and methane by the action of microorganisms under mild ambient conditions was proposed (in landfills or digesters) and even reported (in a biotrickling filter, 30 °C). This is very surprising in view of the harsh conditions required in industrial Si–CH3synthesis. Here, we scrutinized the pertinent papers, with the result that evidence put forward for Si–C bond formation from siloxanes and methane in technical microbiological systems is invalid, suggesting such reactions will not occur in the environment where they are even less favored by conditions. The claim of such reactions followed from erroneous calculations and misinterpretation of experimental results. We propose an alternative explanation of the experimental observations, i.e., the putative observation of such reactions was presumably due to confusion of two compounds, hexamethyldisiloxane and dimethylsilanediol, that elute at similar retention times from standard GC columns.
Medical Management of Right Ventricular Dysfunction in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Caputo Annalisa , Papa Silvia , Manzi Giovanna , Laviola Domenico , Recchioni Tommaso , Severino Paolo , Lavalle Carlo , Maestrini Viviana , Mancone Massimo , Badagliacca Roberto , Vizza Carmine Dario
Published: July 2023

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to overview the most relevant and recent knowledge regarding medical management in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Recent Findings

Evidence has shown that PAH patients’ quality of life and prognosis depend on the capability of the RV to adapt to increased afterload and to fully recover in response to substantially reduced pulmonary vascular resistance obtained with medical therapy.

Data from recent clinical studies show that more aggressive treatment strategies, especially in higher risk categories, determine larger afterload reductions, consequentially increasing the probability of achieving right heart reverse remodeling, therefore improving the patients’ survival and quality of life.

Remarkable progress has been observed over the past decades in the medical treatment of PAH, related to the development of drugs that target multiple biological pathways, strategies for earlier and more aggressive treatment interventions.

New hopes for treatment of patients who are unable to achieve low-risk status have been derived from the phase 2 trial PULSAR and the phase 3 trial STELLAR, which show improvement in the hemodynamic status of patients treated with sotatercept on top of background therapy. Promising results are expected from several ongoing clinical trials targeting new pathways involved in the pathophysiology of PAH.
Valorization of biorefinery residues for sustainable fertilizer production: a comprehensive review
Authors: Chojnacka Katarzyna
Published: July 2023

The management of biowaste and agricultural solid waste is gaining attention due to rising landfill disposal costs and the need for locally available agricultural feedstocks. The biorefinery concept aims to achieve zero waste through valorizing residues as fertilizers. Despite containing NPK macronutrients, residues may not promote plant growth due to limited nutrient availability and phytotoxic compounds. The production of valuable organic, mineral-organic, or mineral fertilizers with confirmed agronomic properties as marketable biorefinery products remains understudied. This comprehensive review broadens our understanding of fertilizer production in biorefineries, which complements the energy (thermal, biogas, biodiesel) and chemical compounds (e.g., succinic acid, propanediol, protein concentrates) that are also generated within biorefineries. It is among the first reviews to investigate the importance of valorizing biorefinery residues as fertilizers, emphasizing methods leading to commercial products and the rationale behind this process. The findings confirm that directly applying unprocessed residues to the soil does not fully exploit their value as by-products. This study contributes to the practical analysis of barriers (legal, chemical, biological, technological) and opportunities (rising prices and reduced global availability of mineral fertilizers) related to fertilizer production in the biorefining process.
Revisiting Edward D. Cope’s “The Relation of Animal Motion to Animal Evolution” (1878)
Authors: McGhee George R.
Published: July 2023

In 1878 evolutionary theoretician Edward D. Cope published an eight-page paper filled with prescient ideas that clearly anticipated theoretical evolutionary topics that are actively being debated some 145 years later. An examination of these ideas and their modern counterparts is the primary objective of this essay. A proposal is also made to provide an answer to Cope’s Puzzle concerning the sequences of events involved in the evolution of adaptive animal structures. This article revisits Cope’s “The Relation of Animal Motion to Animal Evolution” (published in The American Naturalist, volume 12, number 1, January 1878, pp. 40–48) for Biological Theory’s “Classics in Biological Theory” collection; Cope’s original paper is available as supplementary material in the online version of this article.
In Situ Tracking of Break-up, Resuspension, and Transport of Reactive Particle Structures in a Single Wall-Flow Filter Channel
Authors: Thieringer Julia R. D. , Werling Heike , Meyer Jörg , Dittler Achim
Published: July 2023

Particulate filters are used as a standard component in the exhaust gas aftertreatment of vehicles. The reactive (soot) and inert (ash) particles generated during engine operation are deposited in wall-flow filter. The resulting particle layer increases the differential pressure of the filter, which is why it is regenerated regularly. During regeneration of the filter, the reactive particles oxidize, and the inert particles remain in the filter. The oxidation of the soot particles results in a layer break-up, and the resuspension of particle structures can occur. The layer break-up over the entire length of an inlet channel and the resuspension of particle structures have not yet been observed, which is why the fundamental processes in a particulate filter have not yet been fully clarified. In these investigations, the regeneration of a single wall-flow filter channel is observed in situ with high temporal and spatial resolution. For this purpose, the filter is loaded with soot particles and regenerated subsequently. The regeneration of the filter is analyzed in relation to the process parameters of temperature, layer thickness, and flow velocity. Before the visual layer break-up, the pressure drop decreases and declines to a constant value before resuspension of particle structures are detected. As the temperature is increased, the regeneration time is reduced. With a thicker particle layer, the particle structures formed during layer break-up become larger, the location of resuspension shifts to the posterior channel region, and the number of resuspensions increases. A higher flow velocity causes more particle structures to be resuspended and transported to the channel end.
Calculation Model for the Steady-State Vibration Amplitude of a New Type of Cascaded Composite Structure-Based Ultrasonic Transducer
Authors: Zhang Hongjie , Gao Xinyue , Liu Xiaochen , Wu Junqiang
Published: July 2023

The steady-state vibration amplitude is an important performance indicator of high-frequency ultrasonic transducers for ultrasonically assisted manipulating, machining, and manufacturing. This work aimed to develop a calculation model for the steady-state vibration amplitude of a new type of dual-branch cascaded composite structure-based ultrasonic transducer that can be used in the packaging of microelectronic chips. First, the steady-state vibration amplitude of the piezoelectric vibrator of the transducer was derived from the piezoelectric equation. Second, the vibration transfer matrices of the tapered ultrasonic horns were obtained by combining the vibration equation, the continuous condition of the displacement, and the equilibrium condition of the force. Calculation models for the steady-state vibration amplitude of the two working ends of the transducer were then developed. A series of exciting trials were carried out to test the performance of the models. Comparison between the calculated and measured results for steady-state vibration amplitude showed that the maximum deviation was 0.0221 μm, the minimum deviation was 0.0013 μm, the average deviation was 0.0097 μm, and the standard deviation was 0.0046 μm. These values indicated good calculation accuracy, laying a good foundation for the practical application of the proposed transducer.
Analysis of number, size and spatial distribution of rifle bullet-derived lead fragments in hunted roe deer using computed tomography
Authors: Haase Annina , Sen Miriam , Gremse Carl , Mader Anneluise , Korkmaz Birsen , Jungnickel Harald , Hildebrandt Thomas B. , Fritsch Guido , Numata Jorge , Moenning Jan-Louis , Steinhoff-Wagner Julia , Lahrssen-Wiederholt Monika , Pieper Robert
Published: July 2023

The use of lead-based rifle bullets in hunting poses a risk to human and animal health when bullet fragments remain in the game meat. The objective of this study was to assess, for the first time, the number, size and spatial distribution of bullet fragments in game animals collectively and in three dimensions. Four roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) hunted with lead bullets were radiographed using computed tomography (CT) at each step of meat processing from animal bodies to edible parts. The animal bodies contained 43–199 fragments with a mean volume of 3.71 ± 5.49 mm3 and a mean distance of 6.5 ± 4.6 cm perpendicular to the wound channel. About 40% of the fragments were in the lower size range of < 1.00 mm3. Individual fragments were located up to 22.2 cm from the wound channel and were located in the edible parts (ribs, n = 2; haunch, n = 1; shoulder, n = 3) with up to 0.29 g (0.16 ± 0.15 g, mean ± SD) of estimated bullet fragment mass (BFM) deposited in the edible parts of the roe deer. Tissues in a radius of at least 16 cm around the wound channel should have been discarded in order to remove 95% of the BFM from the investigated roe deer. Additionally, around 85.1% of the initial bullet mass corresponding to 9.948 ± 1.040 g BFM were estimated to be introduced into the environment. This study highlights the challenges of ensuring sufficient removal of lead-based rifle bullet fragments in game meat processing for either human consumption purposes or for use as pet food.