bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production of “Green” Thermoplastic Polyurethanes from Decamethylene Sebacate‐co‐Isosorbide Copolymers
Authors: de Andrade Ângela G. L. L. , Pezzin Sérgio H.
Published: December 2022

Long‐chain aliphatic copolyesters based on sebacic acid (SA) and isosorbide (IS), of renewable origin, are synthesized by a “green” and sustainable route, without the use of solvents, for the synthesis of polyurethanes (PUs). The polyesters are characterized by size exclusion chromatography (SEC), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetry (TG). ¹H NMR and FTIR analyses confirm the production of copolyesters with the incorporation of IS, while SEC indicates that the addition of IS to copolyesters decreases the molecular weights. The results suggest the formation of random copolymers in the presence of IS, which makes the polymer chains more rigid. The formation of PUs by the reaction of copolyesters with 1,8‐diisocyanatooctane is confirmed by FTIR. Thermal behavior is compatible with thermoplastic processing and use in different biomedical applications.
Evaluation of Crosslinked Sulfonated Polymers Derived from Different Resins for Removal of Ammonium Ions
Authors: Torquato Marcos Guidi , Corrêa Torquato Ezaine Cristina , Moraes Ana Carolina Lopes , Buás Campeão Fernanda de Andrade , José França Rodrigo , Marques Mônica Regina da Costa , Costa Luciana da Cunha
Published: December 2022

Ammoniacal nitrogen is an environmental pollutant present in various effluents, such as landfill leachate. It is possible to use ion‐exchange resins in systems for tertiary treatment of effluents containing NH4+ ions and as support for NH3 recovery after treatment of these effluents by employing air stripping. This article presents an exploratory study of sorption of NH4+ ions by sulfonic resins prepared from styrene‐divinylbenzene (Sty‐DVB) copolymers with varied morphological structures: hypercrosslinked resin, a macroporous copolymer prepared by conventional aqueous suspension polymerization, and a polyHIPE copolymer. These three resins are sulfonated by employing concentrated sulfuric acid. The sulfonic resin derived from hypercrosslinked resin has the highest cation exchange capacity (5.06 meq g−1) and is selected for batch studies and column tests. The best result (removal rate of 87%) is achieved with 20 g of resin, time of 20 min, and concentration of 100 ppm. Kinetic behavior and sorption processes are best described by the pseudo‐second‐order, Weber–Morris intraparticle diffusion, and Langmuir models. The saturation point occurs when 900 mL of the NH4+ solution at 2500 ppm (15 mL min−1) is percolated through the column. The working capacity of this resin is 14.06 g cm−3. The resin can be reused during five cycles with removal efficiency between 71% and 82%.
Two stages of salvaging an extensively necrotic foot with chronic limb‐threatening ischemia by arterialization of great saphenous vein and free latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap transfer for wound coverage with the arterialized vein as the recipient vessel: A case report
Authors: Kagaya Yu , Ohura Norihiko , Miyamoto Akira , Ozaki Mine
Published: December 2022

Patients with chronic limb‐threatening ischemia (CLTI) without other options for adequate arterial revascularization could undergo deep (or distal) venous arterialization for limb salvage. Additionally, patients with extensive foot wound with CLTI sometimes require free flap transfer for limb salvage. We herein report a case of successful reconstructive limb‐salvage surgery for an extensively necrotic foot with CLTI, using a two‐stage operation involving venous arterialization using foot‐perforating veins and subsequent free flap transfer (with preservation of the arterialized vein). The patient was a 59‐year‐old man with CLTI. The patient's right foot had dry necrotic tissue after Lisfranc joint amputation. Only one straight‐line to the posterior tibial artery was achieved after endovascular therapies (four times). At the first stage of surgery, an arterial–venous shunt bypass from the superficial femoral artery to the distal great saphenous vein (GSV) (near the foot‐perforating vein) was created. Arterial blood supply reached the necrotic area via the foot venous circulation system. At the second stage of surgery, free latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap (8 × 27 cm) transfer with preservation of the arterialized vein was performed. The pedicle artery was anastomosed to the bypass graft (end‐to‐side). The pedicle vein was anastomosed to the proximal stump of the GSV (end‐to‐end). The flap and residual foot survived completely, at a one‐year follow‐up postoperatively. An indocyanine green bypass‐through angiography revealed the angiosome through the venous arterialization bypass graft, which included the flap; entire forefoot; and partial regions of the midfoot and heel. This two‐stage operation might be considered a useful option for limb‐salvage and complete wound‐healing in patients with severe non‐healing wound with CLTI. The two methods could compensate and overcome the problems of either method: incomplete wound‐healing after venous arterialization, and the absence of a recipient artery for free flap transfer.
Imaging of pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients: A COG Diagnostic Imaging Committee/SPR Oncology Committee White Paper
Authors: Chan Sherwin S. , Coblentz Ailish , Bhatia Aashim , Kaste Sue C. , Mhlanga Joyce , Parisi Marguerite T. , Thacker Paul , Voss Stephan D. , Weidman Elizabeth K. , Siegel Marilyn J
Published: December 2022

Imaging in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients is not targeted at evaluating the transplant per se. Rather, imaging is largely confined to evaluating peri‐procedural and post‐procedural complications. Alternatively, imaging may be performed to establish a baseline study for comparison should the patient develop certain post‐procedural complications. This article looks to describe the various imaging modalities available with recommendations for which imaging study should be performed in specific complications. We also provide select imaging protocols for different indications and modalities for the purpose of establishing a set minimal standard for imaging in these complex patients.
Mechanical, wear, thermal and hydrophobic behavior of novel alkali‐silane treated palmyra sprout fiber and red matta biosilica epoxy biocomposite
Authors: S. Poomathi , S. Sheeju Selva Roji
Published: December 2022

In this current study, high‐toughness epoxy bio‐composites were prepared and characterized for lightweight and low‐cost technological applications using novel palmyra sprout fiber (PSF) and red matta rice husk (RHA) biosilica. The principal aim of this research was to study how the alkali‐silane treatments on the fiber and particle influence the mechanical, wear, thermal and hydrophobic behavior of epoxy composites. The PSF was alkali‐silane treated whereas the biosilica was treated only with silane. The composites were prepared via a hand layup process and characterized. According to the results, the treated PSF with 3 vol.% RHA biosilica has the maximum tensile, impact, flexural strength, and hardness. The composite with the inclusion of 5 vol.% biosilica, and the palmyra sprout fiber has the lowest specific wear rate and COF of 0.007 mm3/Nm and 0.37. Moreover, these composites possess good thermal stability with the highest initial decomposition temperature of 342°C. Similarly, the composite designation ESP3 have the lowest contact angle of 75.7°, which is within the hydrophobic limit. These composites with improved mechanical, thermal and wear properties may be useful in a variety of engineering applications that can be used for high load‐bearing capacity and biodegradability, such as sporting goods, automobiles, home furniture, food packaging, transport, and aircrafts.
Recent advances in characterization of citrullination and its implication in human disease research: From method development to network integration
Authors: Wang Bin , Fields Lauren , Li Lingjun
Published: December 2022

Post‐translational modifications (PTM) of proteins increase the functional diversity of the proteome and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases. The most widely understood modifications include phosphorylation, methylation, acetylation, O‐linked/N‐linked glycosylation, and ubiquitination, all of which have been extensively studied and documented. Citrullination is a historically less explored, yet increasingly studied, protein PTM which has profound effects on protein conformation and protein‐protein interactions. Dysregulation of protein citrullination has been associated with disease development and progression. Identification and characterization of citrullinated proteins is highly challenging, complicated by the low cellular abundance of citrullinated proteins, making it difficult to identify and quantify the extent of citrullination in samples, coupled with challenges associated with development of mass spectrometry (MS)‐based methods, as the corresponding mass shift is relatively small, +0.984 Da, and identical to the mass shift of deamidation. The focus of this review is to discuss recent advancements of citrullination‐specific MS approaches and integration of the potential methodology for improved citrullination identification and characterization. In addition, the association of citrullination in disease networks is also highlighted.
Tempol differential effect on prostate cancer inflammation: In vitro and in vivo evaluation
Authors: Rossetto Isabela , Santos Felipe , Kido Larissa , Lamas Celina , Montico Fábio , Cagnon Valéria
Published: December 2022

Background

Tempol is a redox‐cycling nitroxide that acts directly on inflammation. However, few studies have reported the use of tempol in prostate cancer (PCa). The present study investigated the effects of tempol on inflammation related to NF‐κB signaling, using hormone‐dependent or hormone‐independent cell lines and the transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse prostate PCa animal model in the early and late stages of cancer progression.

Methods

PC‐3 and LnCaP cells were exposed to different tempol doses in vitro, and cell viability assays were performed. The optimal treatment dose was chosen for subsequent analysis using western blotting. Five experimental groups were evaluated in vivo to test for tempol effects in the early (CT12 and TPL12 groups) and late stages (CT20, TPL20‐I, and TLP20‐II) of PCa development. The TPL groups were treated with 50 or 100 mg/kg tempol. All control groups received water as the vehicle. The ventral lobe of the prostate was collected and subjected to immunohistochemical and western blot analysis.

Results

Tempol treatment reduced cellular proliferation in vitro and improved prostatic morphology in vivo, thereby decreasing tumor progression. Tempol reduced inflammation in preclinical models, and downregulated the initial inflammatory signaling through toll‐like receptors, not always mediated by the MyD88 pathway. In addition, it upregulated iκB‐α and iκB ‐β levels, leading to a decrease in NF‐κB, TNF‐α, and other inflammatory markers. Tempol also influenced cell survival markers.

Conclusions

Tempol can be considered a beneficial therapy for PCa treatment owing to its anti‐inflammatory and antiproliferative effects. Nevertheless, the action of tempol was different depending on the degree of the prostatic lesion in vivo and hormone reliance in vitro. This indicates that tempol plays a multifaceted role in the prostatic tissue environment.
The use of 68Ga‐PSMA PET/CT to stratify patients with PI‐RADS 3 lesions according to clinically significant prostate cancer risk
Authors: Yang Jinhui , Tang Yongxiang , Zhou Chuanchi , Zhou Ming , Li Jian , Hu Shuo
Published: December 2022

Background

Prostate imaging reporting and data system (PI‐RADS) category 3 lesions represent a “gray zone,” having an equivocal risk of presenting as clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa). 68Ga‐labelled prostate‐specific membrane antigen (68Ga‐PSMA) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) has been identified as a diagnostic tool that can help to predict cases of primary PCa. We aimed to explore diagnostic value of 68Ga‐PSMA PET/CT for csPCa in PI‐RADS 3 lesions to aid in decision‐making and avoid unnecessary biopsies.

Methods

A total of 78 men with PI‐RADS 3 lesions who underwent both 68Ga‐PSMA PET/CT and transrectal ultrasound/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) fusion‐guided biopsy were enrolled. Images were analyzed by respective physicians who were blinded to the pathological results. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and decision curve analysis were used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

A total of 26/78 men had pathologically confirmed csPCa. A lower ADCT/ADCCLP (0.65 vs. 0.71, p = 0.018), smaller prostate volume (25.27 vs. 42.79 ml, p < 0.001), lower free prostate‐specific antigen/total prostate‐specific antigen (0.11 vs. 0.16, p < 0.001), higher PSA level (13.45 vs. 7.90 ng/ml, p = 0.001), higher PSA density (0.40 vs. 0.16 ng/ml2, p < 0.001), higher SUVmax (9.80 vs. 4.40, p < 0.001) and SUVT/BGp (2.41 vs. 1.00, p < 0.001) were associated with csPCa. ROC analysis illustrated the improvement in SUVmax and SUVT/BGp compared with all independent and combined clinical features as well as multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) features for csPCa detection. The net benefits of SUVmax and SUVT/BGp were superior to those of other features, respectively. With cutoff values of 5.0 for SUVmax and 1.4 for SUVT/BGp, the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for csPCa were 96.2%, 100% and 80.8%, 84.6%, respectively.

Conclusion

68Ga‐PSMA PET/CT is potentially capable of stratifying men with PI‐RADS 3 lesions according to the presence of csPCa and has better performance than the model established based on clinical and mpMRI features.
External Gettering of Metallic Impurities by Black Silicon Layer
Authors: Ayvazyan Gagik , Hakhoyan Levon , Ayvazyan Karen , Aghabekyan Arthur
Published: December 2022

Black silicon (b‐Si) has many attractive properties and is currently being adopted in various fields of semiconductor technology. It is shown here that b‐Si during thermal activation may serve as an external gettering layer to remove metallic impurities and associated defects from bulk Si. The gettering efficiency by b‐Si is estimated according to the results of studying the resistivity, defect density, interstitial iron concentration, and effective minority carrier lifetime on gettered test and ungettered reference Si samples. It is shown that in the thermal oxidation process, the b‐Si layer serves as an effective drain for excess iron atoms and other fast‐diffusing impurities, thereby significantly reducing the density of oxidation‐induced stacking faults in Si. In addition, the resistivity of the substrates decreases, and the bulk carrier lifetime increases significantly. Finally, gettering by b‐Si is introduced into the solar cells fabrication process and its effect on solar cell current–voltage characteristics is investigated. It has been shown that all electronic parameters of the solar cells are improved. The conversion efficiency of ungettered solar cells is 16.8%, and for gettered solar cells, depending on the oxidation temperature, it increases by 1.36–1.96%.
Investigation of the trigger perturbation for a simulated case of arctic oscillation transition using initial‐condition perturbation denial experiments
Authors: McLay Justin G. , Doyle James D.
Published: December 2022

This case study seeks to identify the initial‐condition perturbation structure that triggers a prominent example of the positive‐ to negative‐phase arctic oscillation (+AO to −AO) transition in a numerical forecast ensemble. Experiments with spectral filtering and perturbation‐denial sensitivity analysis are used to test the hypothesis that the transition originated from a localized perturbation feature. The denial experiments are guided by binary search, anomaly detection, and adjoint sensitivity methods. The spectral filtering experiments indicate that perturbation scales in the wavenumber range v ∊ [10, 30] are critical to initiating the transition. Conversely, neither the largest perturbation scales (v < 10) nor the smallest scales (v > 30) have significant influence on the transition. The perturbation denial experiments likewise find no evidence to support the hypothesis that a localized perturbation feature initiates the transition. Rather, the transition is only substantially curtailed when the perturbation denial is applied across a broad portion of the domain. In effect, the trigger perturbation behaves like a redundant system, such that the initiation of transition does not critically depend on any singular perturbation feature. Practically, the redundant nature of the trigger means that if one wants to severely constrain the AO index forecast uncertainty such that its envelope falls within only one phase of the AO, then it will require very broad and unfeasible reduction of initial condition errors. However, the denial experiments also indicate that the triggering of transition and the subsequent amplification within the −AO phase are somewhat independent processes.
On subgraphs with degrees of prescribed residues in the random graph
Authors: Ferber Asaf , Hardiman Liam , Krivelevich Michael
Published: December 2022

We show that with high probability the random graph has an induced subgraph of linear size, all of whose degrees are congruent to for any fixed and . More generally, the same is true for any fixed distribution of degrees modulo . Finally, we show that with high probability we can partition the vertices of into parts of nearly equal size, each of which induces a subgraph all of whose degrees are congruent to . Our results resolve affirmatively a conjecture of Scott, who addressed the case .
vAIR—An epistemic model of socioscientific reasoning emerging from citizens engaged in a locally situated SSI
Authors: Ruppert John , Bartlett Paul W. , Infante Masiel
Published: December 2022

Engagement with socioscientific issues (SSI) has emerged as an important focus for science education. SSI have been successfully used to teach science concepts, but they also serve a role in helping learners develop a capacity to engage with science in everyday life. Here we present an epistemic framework for characterizing socioscientific reasoning (SSR), called the vAIR framework standing for virtuous Aims, Ideals, and Reasoning Practices. vAIR is a modification of the AIR framework for epistemic cognition. The “virtuous” framing of vAIR is to align with the language of Sosa's virtue epistemology, reflecting a capacity to engage in reasoning that promotes a collective praxis/enterprise. vAIR was developed from a study of citizens engaged in an authentic SSI to offer a deeper authenticity than might be achieved in the study of a classroom. The goal was to better understand the ontologically distinct components of SSR, as well as gain a better understanding of what “constructive” SSR might look like in the context of collective praxis/enterprise in the everyday world. The findings are presented through a series of vignettes that capture the rich detail of the context as well as the nuances between the dimensions of the vAIR model. vAIR, we argue, can serve as a tool for scaffolding the development and assessment of SSR in classrooms.
A neighbourhood‐scale conceptual model towards regenerative circularity for the built environment
Authors: Sala Benites Henrique , Osmond Paul , Prasad Deo
Published: December 2022

There is potential in applying the circular economy (CE) and regenerative design (RD) models for the redevelopment of urban areas as a response to the current linear and mechanistic practices that still contribute to exceeding planetary boundaries and reinforcing social inequalities. Despite these models' common roots, they are usually approached quite differently. A merged approach may be able to solve existing gaps and critiques. This paper reviews relevant CE and RD definitions linked to the urban context. An inductive content analysis to map and discuss existing themes is conducted, leading to a set of five underpinning pillars. The resulting ‘Regenerative Circularity for the Built Environment’ conceptual model adopts a systemic and positive impact approach that is the steppingstone for the development of a practical tool aiming to support urban stakeholders in the transition of existing neighbourhoods with strategies more suitable to their aims and notion of place.
Benzo[1,4]diazocinone/Pyrrole Ensembles via the Catalyst‐Free Insertion of Pyrrolylacetylenic Ketones into Benzimidazoles
Authors: Belyaeva Kseniya V. , Nikitina Lina P. , Gen' Veronika S. , Saliy Ivan V. , Sobenina Lyubov N. , Afonin Andrei V. , Kuzmin Anton V. , Vashchenko Alexander V. , Trofimov Boris A.
Published: December 2022

Early unknown pharmaceutically oriented heterocyclic systems of benzo[1,4]diazocinone/pyrrole ensembles have been synthesized in up to 93 % yields by the catalyst‐free mild insertion of pyrrolylacetylenic ketones into benzimidazoles. The reaction represents an extraordinary easy expansion of the aromatic five‐membered heterocyclic ring up to pyrrole‐ringed, highly unsaturated eight‐membered heterocyclic system. The proposed mechanism of the reaction proceeding through dipole and ylide intermediates is confirmed by quantum chemical calculations (DFT).
Local Degradation of PEDOT:PSS on Silicon Nanostructures Using Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy
Authors: Dufil Yannick , Dietrich Marc , Zigah Dodzi , Favier Frederic , Sadki Saïd , Gentile Pascal , Fontaine Olivier
Published: December 2022

Conducting polymers show attractive characteristics as electrode materials for micro‐electrochemical energy storage (MEES). However, there is a lack of characterization techniques to study conjugated/conducting polymer‐based nanostructured electrodes. Here, scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) is introduced as a new technique for in situ characterization and acceleration of degradation processes of conducting polymers. Electrodes of PEDOT:PSS on flat silicon, silicon nanowires (SiNWs) and silicon nanotrees (SiNTrs) are analyzed by SECM in feedback mode with approach curves and chronoamperometry. The innovative degradation method using SECM reduces the time required to locally degrade polymer samples to a few thousand seconds, which is significantly shorter than the time usually required for such studies. The degradation rate is modeled using Comsol Multiphysics. The model provides an understanding of the phenomena that occur during degradation of the polymer electrode and describes them using a mathematical constant A0 and a time constant τ.
Growing a community of conversation and understanding: The 2023 agenda for the systems community
Authors: Klein Louis , Buckle Pamela , Nguyen Nam , Preiser Rika , Ison Ray
Published: December 2022

In his 1970 report to the Club of Rome, Hasan Özbekhan compiled an extensive collection of intersecting issues confronting humanity—the Global Problématique. Alas, half a century later, we find ourselves even further entrenched in this network of complex, systemic issues that some have framed the Anthropocene, a period new to human history. Collectively, we must take seriously the question:

what purposeful action will aid human flourishing, create and sustain a viable space for humanity, in our ongoing co‐evolution with the Anthropocene‐Biosphere?

Through ongoing reflections to this prompt, the theme of the IFSR's 2023 agenda iscommunity. At the heart of this community, we place emphasis on the role ofconversationto enable the co‐creation of a common (yet not necessarily shared)understanding. Collective efforts to grow and participate in this diverse cyber‐systemic community of conversation and understanding will enhance the capacity to shift from stasis towards transformative actions demanded by the Global Problématique. In the Batesonian sense, the prospect of making a meta‐difference that makes a difference is the emergent promise of our enterprise made collective.
Advancements in Gold‐Catalyzed Cascade Reactions to Access Carbocycles and Heterocycles: An Overview
Authors: Ghosh T. , Bhakta S.
Published: December 2022

This review summarizes recent developments (from 2006 to 2022) in numerous important and efficient carbo‐ and heterocycle generations using gold‐catalyzed cascade protocols. Herein, methodologies involve selectivity, cost‐effectiveness, and ease of product formation being controlled by the ligand as well as the counter anion, catalyst, substrate, and reaction conditions. Gold‐catalyzed cascade reactions covered different strategies through the compilation of various approaches such as cyclization, hydroarylation, intermolecular and intramolecular cascade reactions, etc. This entitled reaction is also useful for the synthesis of spiro, fused, bridged carbo‐ and heterocycles.
Global coordination of wheat sowing: A possible policy against climate variability
Authors: Giulioni Gianfranco , Di Giuseppe Edmondo , Pasqui Massimiliano
Published: December 2022

Through an analysis of the sowing and harvesting times across all the regions of a tailored‐for‐wheat world geographic partition, we assess the temporal possibility of modifying the acreage of wheat crops in some regions in an attempt to offset the change in production caused by the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in the others. Using a computational model able to handle the complexity of the global system of wheat markets, we found that the adoption of a policy of cooperation can smooth out the effects that ENSO would have on international markets. In particular, the optimal policy we found would bring back prices toward those observed in the neutral phase by reducing them up to about 11% with El Niño, and, on average, about 1% with La Niña. Such an optimal policy would be favorable, especially to the in‐need part of the world population. Furthermore, we found that Central Asia is potentially the strategic area for policy implementation.
Diseases maps of spatial epidemiological data by R
Authors: Kubota Takafumi
Published: December 2022

Disease maps are essential when analyzing spatial epidemiological data, such as newly detected COVID‐19 positive cases or suicide deaths, because it is necessary to determine the method of analysis in order to perform spatial statistical analysis. Disease maps give an initial overview of the data and provide evidence of regional trends, which the analyst can check. Therefore, in this article, the author aimed to use R, a statistical data analysis tool, to draw spatial epidemiological data in the form of disease maps. This article presents three different methods and analyzes recent trends in COVID‐19 and suicide mortality. The author used monthly data from April, July, and October 2020. The results showed no significant trend in April, but some prefectures showed a negative correlation in July. On the other hand, some prefectures showed a positive correlation in October, confirming the influence of COVID‐19 on suicide by region.

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Statistical Graphics and Visualization
Performance of a laboratory von Hámos type x‐ray spectrometer in x‐ray absorption spectroscopy study on 3d group metals
Authors: Fanselow Rafał , Sobstel Michał , Błachucki Wojciech , Szlachetko Jakub
Published: December 2022

With the recent progress regarding the development of x‐ray instrumentation, compact x‐ray spectrometers are becoming more and more popular as they allow x‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and x‐ray emission spectroscopy (XES) studies at the research institutes laboratories. Such setups provide a cost‐effective tool for routine sample characterization with unlimited access and are of great utility in feasibility studies preceding the experiments at synchrotrons and x‐ray free‐electron lasers (XFELs). Herein, we present the operation and capabilities of the von Hámos type x‐ray spectrometer in x‐ray absorption spectra measurement for various 3d metal elements. Results allowed us to establish the photon counting performance of the setup, demonstrating a possible range of applications of the in‐house x‐ray spectroscopy apparatus.
The Biological, Histopathological, and Parasitic Abundance of Oreochromis niloticus Inhabiting Two Different Freshwater Canals
Authors: Saad El-Din Marwa I. , Ghobashy Mahi A. , Mansour Farida A. , El-Shenawy Nahla S. , Gad EL-Hak Heba N.
Published: December 2022

The current study aimed to assess the impact of metal pollution in water on parasitic abundance, biology, and histopathological characteristics ofOreochromis niloticusin two different freshwater habitats in the Al Sharkia government. The fish were collected from the Mueweis canal area (A) which received industrial wastewater from factories and the San El-Hagar area (B) which received agricultural and domestic wastewater. Parasitic abundance and histopathological changes in the liver and gonads were inspected. The total prevalence of parasitic infection was at the highest percentage in area B correlated with metals present in the water, in addition to severe histopathological damage to the liver and the gonads. The prevalence of parasites for different examined fish ranges from 50% for parasites in the San El-Hagar canal and 4.17% for parasites in the Muwies canal, seasonally. There were positive relationships between Fe or Zn or Mn concentrations with parasite abundance in tilapia fish collected from the San Hagar canal. Several histopathological alterations were detected in the liver and gonads ofO. niloticuscollected from the two canals located in the Al Sharkia province. It was concluded that the uncontrolled inputs of agricultural and domestic wastes highly altered theO. niloticushealth status and the prevalence of the parasites in the investigated two areas.
Safe drilling zones for anteriorly, central, and posteriorly angulated syndesmotic stabilization devices
Authors: Baumbach S. F. , Synek A. , Spindler F. T. , Bauer L. , Böcker W. , Polzer H.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purposes of the study were to (1) analyze the shape of the distal fibula at the location of syndesmotic stabilization and to (2) define safe zones at the distal-lateral fibula for three different drilling tunnel orientations: anteriorly-, posteriorly angulated and center-center.

Methods

Postoperative, bilateral CT images of adult patients that underwent syndesmotic stabilization (suture-button system) for an acute, unilateral ankle injury were analyzed. Manual axial CT reconstructions of the uninjured side were generated. First, the axial shape of the distal fibula was classified. The aspect ratio between the anterio-lateral and the posterior-lateral surfaces of the fibula was calculated to assess symmetry. Second, the same axial planes were used to define the safe zones. Each drilling-tunnel orientation (anterior, central, posterior) comprised a fixed medial tibial anchor point and a safe zone on the lateral fibula. For each of the three orientations, the most anteriorly and posteriorly drilling tunnel location was simulated. Next to a cumulative visual analysis, a quantitative analysis of the most anterior and posterior point on the anterio- and posterior-lateral surfaces was calculated.

Results

A total of 96 CT datasets were analyzed. (1) 81% of fibulae revealed a triangular convex-, 10% an irregular-, and 8% a quadrilateral shape. The lateral surface ratio was 1.0 ± 0.2 (range: 0.7–1.5), not differing between the fibula types (n.s.). (2) The safe corridor on the lateral surface of the fibula for an anteriorly angulated drilling tunnel was − 8% to − 41%, for a posteriorly angulated drilling tunnel was 0% to 46%, and for a center-center alignment − 7 ± 11% (range: − 28 to 18%).

Conclusion

The meta-diaphyseal region of the distal fibula revealed a homogeneous crosssectional shape. The lateral apex of the fibula can serve as a landmark defining safe zones to place the drilling tunnels correctly. Applying these safe zones in clinical practice could help to avoid the misplacement of the syndesmotic fixation device.

Level of evidence

Level III, retrospective radiographic study.
The effect of root hairs on exudate composition: a comparative non-targeted metabolomics approach
Authors: Lohse Martin , Santangeli Michael , Steininger-Mairinger Teresa , Oburger Eva , Reemtsma Thorsten , Lechtenfeld Oliver J. , Hann Stephan
Published: December 2022

Root exudation is a major pathway of organic carbon input into soils. It affects soil physical properties, element solubility as well as speciation, and impacts the microbial community in the rhizosphere. Root exudates contain a large number of primary and secondary plant metabolites, and the amount and composition are highly variable depending on plant species and developmental stage. Detailed information about exudate composition will allow for a better understanding of exudate-driven rhizosphere processes and their feedback loops. Although non-targeted metabolomics by high-resolution mass spectrometry is an established tool to characterize root exudate composition, the extent and depth of the information obtained depends strongly on the analytical approach applied. Here, two genotypes of Zea mays L., differing in root hair development, were used to compare six mass spectrometric approaches for the analysis of root exudates. Reversed-phase liquid chromatography and hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography combined with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-TOF-MS), as well as direct infusion Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (DI-FT-ICR-MS), were applied with positive and negative ionization mode. By using the same statistical workflow, the six approaches resulted in different numbers of detected molecular features, ranging from 176 to 889, with a fraction of 48 to 69% of significant features (fold change between the two genotypes of > 2 and p-value < 0.05). All approaches revealed the same trend between genotypes, namely up-regulation of most metabolites in the root hair defective mutant (rth3). These results were in agreement with the higher total carbon and nitrogen exudation rate of the rth3-mutant as compared to the corresponding wild-type maize (WT). However, only a small fraction of features were commonly found across the different analytical approaches (20–79 features, 13–31% of the rth3-mutant up-regulated molecular formulas), highlighting the need for different mass spectrometric approaches to obtain a more comprehensive view into the composition of root exudates. In summary, 111 rth3-mutant up-regulated compounds (92 different molecular formulas) were detected with at least two different analytical approaches, while no WT up-regulated compound was found by both, LC-TOF-MS and DI-FT-ICR-MS. Zea mays L. exudate features obtained with multiple analytical approaches in our study were matched against the metabolome database of Zea mays L. (KEGG) and revealed 49 putative metabolites based on their molecular formula.

Graphical Abstract
Development and validation of a [18F]FDG PET/CT-based radiomics nomogram to predict the prognostic risk of pretreatment diffuse large B cell lymphoma patients
Authors: Li Mingshan , Yao Hongyang , Zhang Peng , Zhang Lingbo , Liu Wei , Jiang Zhiyun , Li Wei , Zhao Shu , Wang Kezheng
Published: December 2022

Objective

In this study, based on PET/CT radiomics features, we developed and validated a nomogram to predict progression-free survival (PFS) for cases with diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) treated with immunochemotherapy.

Methods

This study retrospectively recruited 129 cases with DLBCL. Among them, PET/CT scans were conducted and baseline images were collected for radiomics features along with their clinicopathological features. Radiomics features related to recurrence were screened for survival analysis using univariate Cox regression analysis withp< 0.05. Next, a weighted Radiomics-score (Rad-score) was generated and independent risk factors were obtained from univariate and multivariate Cox regressions to build the nomogram. Furthermore, the nomogram was tested for their ability to predict PFS using time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

Blood platelet, Rad-score, and gender were included in the nomogram as independent DLBCL risk factors for PFS. We found that the training cohort areas under the curve (AUCs) were 0.79, 0.84, and 0.88, and validation cohort AUCs were 0.67, 0.83, and 0.72, respectively. Further, the DCA and calibration curves confirmed the predictive nomogram’s clinical relevance.

Conclusion

Using Rad-score, blood platelet, and gender of the DLBCL patients, a PET/CT radiomics-based nomogram was developed to guide cases’ recurrence risk assessment prior to treatment. The developed nomogram can help provide more appropriate treatment plans to the cases.

Key Points

• DLBCL cases can be classified into low- and high-risk groups using PET/CT radiomics based Rad-score.

• When combined with other clinical characteristics (gender and blood platelet count), Rad-score can be used to predict the outcome of the pretreatment of DLBCL cases with a certain degree of accuracy.

• A prognostic nomogram was established in this study in order to aid in assessing prognostic risk and providing more accurate treatment plans for DLBCL cases.
Warming of Baltic Sea water masses since 1850
Authors: Dutheil C. , Meier H. E. M. , Gröger M. , Börgel F.
Published: December 2022

The Baltic Sea is among the fastest-warming seas globally in recent decades affecting biogeochemical conditions such as euxinic areas but also pelagic and benthic marine ecosystems. It is therefore crucial to understand how this heat gain is distributed vertically. We used reconstructed atmospheric forcing fields for 1850–2008 to perform an ocean climate simulation that adequately captures climatogical temperature and salinity profiles. Then, a water mass classification distinguishes three water masses corresponding to the classical view, warm and fresh surface waters, cold and fresh intermediate waters, and cold and salty bottom waters, and two transition water masses. The temperature trends show a similar three layers pattern with fast warming at the surface (~ 0.06 K decade− 1) and bottom (> 0.04 K decade− 1) and slow in the intermediate layers (< 0.04 K decade− 1). The slow warming in the intermediate layer is explained by both weakly warmed water winter convection and the summer surface thermocline isolating the intermediate layers. The warming in the deep layers is related to warm surface inflow from the North Sea and Baltic proper in the southern and northern Baltic Sea respectively. Furthermore, sensitivity experiments show that the warming magnitude is controlled by rising air temperature while the vertical distribution of heat gain is related to surface wind conditions. Finally, the North Atlantic Oscillation and Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation are well correlated with the temperature minimum and thus modulate the magnitude of warming in the intermediate layers on shorter time scales. This study provides a new picture of the Baltic Sea’s warming and suggests that this complexity is essential for understanding the influence of climate change on marine ecosystems.
Stabbed by motorcycle? Reconstruction of an unusual traffic accident
Authors: Muggenthaler Holger , Bismann Daniel , Autsch Angelina , Hubig Michael , Subramaniam Jayant Shanmugam , Mall Gita , Wittschieber Daniel
Published: December 2022

The reconstruction of traffic accidents involving powered two-wheelers (PTWs) frequently proves to be a challenging task. A case in which a fatal head-on crash of a PTW with a small truck where only minor vehicles damage was observed but resulted in isolated fatal chest trauma is discussed here. External examination of the corpse revealed two lacerations on the back, at the first glance implying sharp trauma. Based on the accident traces, the technical expert assumed an emergency break of the PTW rider resulting in a rotation of the PTW in terms of a wheelie on the front wheel. The first contact between the PTW rider and the tail end of the small truck probably occurred with the upper side of the helmet, and then, the back handle of the PTW caused the stab-like injuries followed by compression of the rider between the small truck or asphalt and the PTW. Based on the few accident traces available, neither a reconstruction of the pre-impact velocity nor a detailed reconstruction of the PTW rider kinematics was possible. However, using an interdisciplinary approach, the principal collision position as well as the injury mechanisms could be reconstructed.
Impact of the glutamatergic neurotransmission within the A5 region on the cardiorespiratory response evoked from the midbrain dlPAG
Authors: González-García M. , Carrillo-Franco L. , Peinado-Aragonés C. A. , Díaz-Casares A. , Gago B. , López-González M. V. , Dawid-Milner M. S.
Published: December 2022

Stimulation of the dorsolateral periaqueductal grey matter (dlPAG) in rats evokes an active defensive behaviour together with a cardiorespiratory response characterised by tachypnoea, tachycardia and hypertension. The dlPAG neurons involved in these responses are excitatory, presumably glutamatergic, due to the presence of vesicular glutamate transporter VGLUT2 within their axon terminals. Previously, our group described a functional interaction between dlPAG and the pontine A5 region. Accordingly, in the present work, in order to characterize the role of glutamate within this interaction, experiments were carried out in spontaneously breathing anaesthetized rats (sodium pentobarbitone 60 mg/kg i.p., suplemented with 20 mg/kg i.p.). The cardiorespiratory response evoked by electrical stimulation of the dlPAG (1 ms pulses, 20–50 μA, given at 100 Hz, during 5 s) was analysed before and after the microinjection, within the A5 region, of either kynurenic acid (non-specific glutamate receptor antagonist; 5–10 nmol), DAP-5 (NMDA antagonist; 1 pmol), CNQX (non-NMDA antagonist; 1 pmol) or MCPG (metabotropic antagonist; 0,1 nmol). Kynurenic acid decreased the intensity of both the tachypnoea (p < 0,001) and tachycardia (p < 0,001) induced by dl-PAG stimulation. Blockade of no-NMDA receptors reduced the increase of respiratory frequency, heart rate and pressor response to dl-PAG stimulation (p < 0,01, p < 0,001, p < 0,05 respectively). Blockade of either NMDA or metabotropic receptors reduced the dlPAG-evoked tachycardia and pressor response (p < 0,01; p < 0,05 respectively). These results suggest a neuromodulatory role for A5 region via glutamate neurotransmission of the dlPAG-evoked cardiorespiratory response, confirming the role of the ventrolateral pons in the neuronal circuits involved in respiratory and heart rate control.
Tumour necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 1 beta and interferon gamma have detrimental effects on equine tenocytes that cannot be rescued by IL-1RA or mesenchymal stromal cell–derived factors
Authors: Smith Emily J. , Beaumont Ross E. , McClellan Alyce , Sze Cheryl , Palomino Lago Esther , Hazelgrove Liberty , Dudhia Jayesh , Smith Roger K. W. , Guest Deborah J.
Published: December 2022

Tendon injuries occur commonly in both human and equine athletes, and poor tendon regeneration leads to functionally deficient scar tissue and an increased frequency of re-injury. Despite evidence suggesting inadequate resolution of inflammation leads to fibrotic healing, our understanding of the inflammatory pathways implicated in tendinopathy remains poorly understood, meaning successful targeted treatments are lacking. Here, we demonstrate IL-1β, TNFα and IFN-γ work synergistically to induce greater detrimental consequences for equine tenocytes than when used individually. This includes altering tendon associated and matrix metalloproteinase gene expression and impairing the cells’ ability to contract a 3-D collagen gel, a culture technique which more closely resembles the in vivo environment. Moreover, these adverse effects cannot be rescued by direct suppression of IL-1β using IL-1RA or factors produced by BM-MSCs. Furthermore, we provide evidence that NF-κB, but not JNK, P38 MAPK or STAT 1, is translocated to the nucleus and able to bind to DNA in tenocytes following TNFα and IL-1β stimulation, suggesting this signalling cascade may be responsible for the adverse downstream consequences of these inflammatory cytokines. We suggest a superior approach for treatment of tendinopathy may therefore be to target specific signalling pathways such as NF-κB.
Recent developments in parrot cognition: a quadrennial update
Authors: Rössler Theresa , Auersperg Alice M.
Published: December 2022

Psittacines, along with corvids, are commonly referred to as ‘feathered apes’ due to their advanced cognitive abilities. Until rather recently, the research effort on parrot cognition was lagging behind that on corvids, however current developments show that the number of parrot studies is steadily increasing. In 2018, M. L. Lambert et al. provided a comprehensive review on the status of the most important work done so far in parrot and corvid cognition. Nevertheless, only a little more than 4 years after this publication, more than 50 new parrot studies have been published, some of them chartering completely new territory. On the 25th anniversary of Animal Cognition we think this warrants a detailed review of parrot cognition research over the last 4 years. We aim to capture recent developments and current trends in this rapidly expanding and diversifying field.
Supermodularity and valid inequalities for quadratic optimization with indicators
Authors: Atamtürk Alper , Gómez Andrés
Published: December 2022

We study the minimization of a rank-one quadratic with indicators and show that the underlying set function obtained by projecting out the continuous variables is supermodular. Although supermodular minimization is, in general, difficult, the specific set function for the rank-one quadratic can be minimized in linear time. We show that the convex hull of the epigraph of the quadratic can be obtained from inequalities for the underlying supermodular set function by lifting them into nonlinear inequalities in the original space of variables. Explicit forms of the convex-hull description are given, both in the original space of variables and in an extended formulation via conic quadratic-representable inequalities, along with a polynomial separation algorithm. Computational experiments indicate that the lifted supermodular inequalities in conic quadratic form are quite effective in reducing the integrality gap for quadratic optimization with indicators.