bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction to the special series, “The future of marine environmental monitoring and assessment”
Authors: Erichsen Anders C. , Middelboe Anne L.
Published: May 2022

Traditional marine monitoring can be a resource-intensive process that often covers a network of sampling stations where data are collected manually by divers, or discretely using in situ water samples at different depths at fixed positions followed by laboratory analysis. As such, environmental status is often reported after a delay of months or years. However, things are set to change for the better. Recent advances in technologies, such as remote sensing, machine learning techniques, modeling for non-experts, acoustic monitoring, and intelligent integration of modeling and sensor measurements will revolutionize the future of marine environmental monitoring and monitoring systems. This special series touches upon some of the new technologies and models that may be an integrated part of ecosystem assessment and management in the future. Although technologies are being developed and integrated for marine monitoring around the world, the integration with ecosystem models is still in the early days. Still, this series highlights inspirational examples of the time ahead of us. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022;18:888–891. © 2022 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).

KEY POINTS

Papers in the special series show advances in various technologies.
Oral health in America 2021: Making a case for curricular change
Authors: Niessen Linda C. , Fontana Margherita , Weyant Robert J. , Casamassimo Paul S. , Feine Jocelyne , Karimbux Nadeem
Published: May 2022

Background

The NIH Oral Health in America: Advances and Challenges report is the most recent evidence‐based review of the status of oral health in North America since Oral Health in America: A Report of the Surgeon General, which was published in 2000. This article aims to synthesize and discuss information from the report pertinent to improving dental education to positively impact oral health. Calls for action and suggestions for implementation are presented.

Methods

The authors reviewed each section from the report and identified key messages relevant to dental education. These were then combined into a framework based on the NIH report's three main “call to action” items. A matrix for calls to action and implementation recommendations was developed using the findings from the 2021 NIH report and a previous 2018 report on Advancing Dental Education in the 21st Century.

Conclusion

The information discussed in the report related to dental education has the potential to improve oral health, and educators, schools, professional organizations, state, and federal agencies are called to develop and/or implement action plans focused on curriculum, competencies, workshops, guidelines, and policies based on the summary framework presented in this study.
Genetic characterization of potential venom resistance proteins in California ground squirrels (Otospermophilus beecheyi) using transcriptome analyses
Authors: Ochoa Alexander , Hassinger Alyssa T. B. , Holding Matthew L. , Gibbs H. Lisle
Published: May 2022

Understanding the molecular basis of adaptations in coevolving species requires identifying the genes that underlie reciprocally selected phenotypes, such as those involved in venom in snakes and resistance to the venom in their prey. In this regard, California ground squirrels (CGS; Otospermophilus beecheyi) are eaten by northern Pacific rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus oreganus), but individual squirrels may still show substantial resistance to venom and survive bites. A recent study using proteomics identified venom interactive proteins (VIPs) in the blood serum of CGS. These VIPs represent possible resistance proteins, but the sequences of genes encoding them are unknown despite the value of such data to molecular studies of coevolution. To address this issue, we analyzed a de novo assembled transcriptome from CGS liver tissue—where many plasma proteins are synthesized—and other tissues from this species. We then examined VIP sequences in terms of three characteristics that identify them as possible resistance proteins: evidence for positive selection, high liver expression, and nonsynonymous variation across CGS populations. Based on these characteristics, we identified five VIPs (i.e., α‐2‐macroglobulin, α‐1‐antitrypsin‐like protein GS55‐LT, apolipoprotein A‐II, hibernation‐associated plasma protein HP‐20, and hibernation‐associated plasma protein HP‐27) as the most likely candidates for resistance proteins among VIPs identified to date. Four of these proteins have been previously implicated in conferring resistance to the venom in mammals, validating our approach. When combined with the detailed information available for rattlesnake venom proteins, these results set the stage for future work focused on understanding coevolutionary interactions at the molecular level between these species.
A Multimodal Approach to Quantify Chondrocyte Viability for Airway Tissue Engineering
Authors: Chan Coreena , Liu Lumei , Dharmadhikari Sayali , Shontz Kimberly M. , Tan Zheng Hong , Bergman Maxwell , Shaffer Terri , Tram Nguyen K. , Breuer Christopher K. , Stacy Mitchel R. , Chiang Tendy
Published: May 2022

Objectives/Hypothesis

Partially decellularized tracheal scaffolds have emerged as a potential solution for long‐segment tracheal defects. These grafts have exhibited regenerative capacity and the preservation of native mechanical properties resulting from the elimination of all highly immunogenic cell types while sparing weakly immunogenic cartilage. With partial decellularization, new considerations must be made about the viability of preserved chondrocytes. In this study, we propose a multimodal approach for quantifying chondrocyte viability for airway tissue engineering.

Methods

Tracheal segments (5 mm) were harvested fromC57BL/6 mice, and immediately stored in phosphate‐buffered saline at −20°C (PBS‐20) or biobanked via cryopreservation. Stored and control (fresh) tracheal grafts were implanted as syngeneic tracheal grafts (STG) for 3 months.STGwas scanned with micro‐computed tomography (μCT) in vivo.STGsubjected to different conditions (fresh,PBS‐20, or biobanked) were characterized with live/dead assay, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferasedUTPnick end labeling (TUNEL), and von Kossa staining.

Results

Live/dead assay detected higher chondrocyte viability in biobanked conditions compared to PBS‐20. TUNEL staining indicated that storage conditions did not alter the proportion of apoptotic cells. Biobanking exhibited a lower calcification area than PBS‐20 in 3‐month post‐implanted grafts. Higher radiographic density (Hounsfield units) measured by μCT correlated with more calcification within the tracheal cartilage.

Conclusions

We propose a strategy to assess chondrocyte viability that integrates with vivo imaging and histologic techniques, leveraging their respective strengths and weaknesses. These techniques will support the rational design of partially decellularized tracheal scaffolds.

Level of Evidence

N/ALaryngoscope, 133:512–520, 2023
Long‐term results and safety of fibroblast growth factor injection for unilateral vocal fold paralysis
Authors: Yamauchi Tomohiko , Kanazawa Takeharu , Hasegawa Tomohiro , Kurakami Kazuya , Konomi Ujimoto , Hirosaki Mayu , Komazawa Daigo , Nozawa Miki , Takahashi Satoka , Watanabe Yusuke
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Treatments for unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) include conservative voice rehabilitation, vocal fold injection, and laryngeal framework surgery. We proposed basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) injection as a potential novel treatment for UVFP and have reported the short‐term results. In this study, we present the long‐term results and safety of vocal fold bFGF injection as a treatment for UVFP.

Methods

This retrospective study included 42 patients (25 males and 17 females) with UVFP who were administered a local injection of bFGF. The injection regimen involved injecting FGF (0.5 μg/ml in 0.5 ml per side) into the bilateral vocal folds using a 23‐gauge injection needle. Phonological outcomes were evaluated 6 months and 12 months after the injection.

Results

Overall, 26 patients received a single injection of bFGF, six patients received an additional injection, and 10 patients received the additional framework surgery. Maximum phonation time, mean flow rate, pitch range, jitter and shimmer percentages, the total GRBAS (grade, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, strain) score, and voice handicap index scores improved significantly in the long term. In patients who received the additional injection or framework surgery, the effects of bFGF injection were temporary, but did not interfere with the performance of the framework surgery.

Conclusion

In total, 42 patients who underwent vocal fold bFGF injections were reviewed. The bFGF injections were effective and safe in the long‐term results for UVFP in the selected cases. Some patients with severe symptoms benefited from the additional framework surgery but not the additional bFGF injection.
Maternal Diet Is Associated with Human Milk Oligosaccharide Profile
Authors: Selma‐Royo Marta , González Sonia , Gueimonde Miguel , Chang Melinda , Fürst Annalee , Martínez‐Costa Cecilia , Bode Lars , Collado Maria Carmen
Published: May 2022

Scope

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are complex glycans that are abundant in human milk. The potential impact of a maternal diet on individual HMOs and the association with secretor status is unknown. Thus, this study is aimed to examine the association between maternal diet and HMO profiles.

Methods and results

This is a cross‐sectional study of the MAMI cohort with 101 human milk samples from healthy mothers. HMO profiling is assessed by quantitative HPLC. Maternal dietary information is recorded through an FFQ, and perinatal factors including the mode of delivery, antibiotic exposure, and breastfeeding practices, are collected. A more significant effect of diet on HMO profiles is observed in secretor mothers than in non‐secretor mothers. (Poly)phenols and fibers, both soluble and insoluble, and several insoluble polysaccharides, pectin, and MUFA are associated with the secretor HMO profiles.

Conclusions

Maternal diet is associated with the composition and diversity of HMO in a secretor status‐dependent manner. The relationship between maternal diet and bioactive compounds, including HMOs, which are present in human milk, needs further research due its potential impact on infant development and health outcomes.
Technical note: Evaluation of methods for reducing edge current density under electrode arrays for tumor‐treating fields therapy
Authors: Sung Heehun , Jo Yunhui , Oh Geon , Gi Yongha , Kim Hyunwoo , Park Sangmin , Seo Jaehyeon , Yoon Myonggeun
Published: May 2022

Background

Tumor‐treating fields (TTFields) therapy is increasingly utilized clinically because of its demonstrated efficacy in cancer treatment. However, the risk of skin burns must still be reduced to improve patient safety and posttreatment quality of life.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the methods of constructing electrode arrays that reduce current density exceeding threshold values, which can cause skin burns during TTFields therapy.

Methods

Electrode and body models were generated using COMSOL software. The body model had the dielectric properties of the scalp. The average current density beneath the central region of the electrode was maintained at ∼31 mA/cm2 RMS. The deviations in current density at the edges of the electrode were reduced by three methods: adjustment of the ceramic thickness ratio of the center to the edge from 1/5 to 4/5, adjustment of the radius of the metal plate from 5.0 to 8.0 mm, and insertion of an insulator of width 0.5 to 2 mm at the edge.

Results

While using a single circular electrode, adjustment of the ceramic thickness ratio, adjustment of the metal plate radius, and insertion of an insulator near the edge reduced the deviations of current density by 14.6%, 67.7%, and 75.3%, respectively. Similarly, while using circular electrode arrays, inserting an insulator at the edge of each electrode reduced the deviations of current density significantly, from 8.62 to 2.40 mA/cm2.

Conclusions

Insertion of an insulator at the edge of each electrode was found to be the most effective method of attaining uniform current density distribution beneath the electrode, thereby lowering the risk of adverse effects of TTFields therapy.
The H92R substitution in PSST is a reliable diagnostic biomarker for predicting resistance to mitochondrial electron transport inhibitors of complex I in European populations of Tetranychus urticae
Authors: Xue Wenxin , Lu Xueping , Mavridis Konstantinos , Vontas John , Jonckheere Wim , Van Leeuwen Thomas
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Mitochondrial Electron Transport Inhibitors of complex I (METI‐I), such as tebufenpyrad and fenpyroximate, are acaricides that have been used extensively to control Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) for more than 20 years. Because of the ability of this spider mite to rapidly develop acaricide resistance, field (cross‐) resistance monitoring and elucidation of resistance mechanisms are extremely important for resistance management (RM). In the present study, 42 European T. urticae field populations were screened for tebufenpyrad and fenpyroximate resistance, and the correlation between resistance and the H92R substitution in PSST was investigated.

RESULTS

According to the calculated lethal concentration values that kill 90% of the population (LC90), tebufenpyrad and fenpyroximate would fail to control many of the collected populations at recommended field rates. Six populations exhibited high to very high resistance levels (200‐ to over 1950‐fold) to both METI‐Is. Analysis based on the LC50 values displayed a clear correlation between tebufenpyrad and fenpyroximate resistance, further supporting cross‐resistance, which is of great operational importance in acaricide RM. The previously uncovered METI‐I target‐site mutation H92R in the PSST homologue of complex I (NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase) was found with high allele frequencies in populations resistant to tebufenpyrad and fenpyroximate. Synergist assays showed this mutation is not the only factor involved in METI‐I resistance and additive or synergistic effects of multiple mechanisms most likely determine the phenotypic strength.

CONCLUSIONS

The predictive value of resistance by H92R is very high in European populations and offers great potential to be used as a molecular diagnostic marker for METI‐I resistance. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
The carbon catabolite repressor CreA is an essential virulence factor of Metarhizium acridum against Locusta migratoria
Authors: Song Dongxu , Jin Yumei , Shi Youhui , Xia Yuxian , Peng Guoxiong
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

CreA has been proved to be a core gene in asexual conidiation in Metarhizium acridum, which regulates the shift of normal conidiation and microcycle conidiation. At present, research on CreA in fungi has focused on carbon source metabolism. There is a lack of research on the effect of CreA in virulence of pathogenic fungi.

RESULTS

The virulence of the MaCreA disrupted strain (ΔMaCreA) for Locusta migratoria was lost by topical inoculation bioassay. The formation rate and turgor pressure of the appressoria decreased. Growth of ΔMaCreA in host hemolymph was delayed, and the number of hyphal bodies was significantly reduced. The conidial cell wall of ΔMaCreA became thicker, the mannan content decreased, and the chitin content increased significantly, and it was more sensitive to calcofluor white and Congo Red. α‐1,3‐Glucan and β‐1,3‐glucan are more exposed on the surface of ΔMaCreA conidia than on the wild type. Lmspätzle and Lmcactus, the immune response genes in the host Toll pathway, showed stronger transcriptional activities at the early stage of ΔMaCreA invasion. The phenoloxidase activity assay also showed stronger immunostimulation by ΔMaCreA in vitro.

CONCLUSION

The main reasons for the loss of virulence of ΔMaCreA in the topical inoculation were the reduced penetration ability of appressoria, limited growth in hemolymph and stronger insect immunostimulation of ΔMaCreA. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Dual‐Gate Graphene/h‐BN/GaSe Metal–Insulator–Semiconductor Field‐Effect Transistor (MISFET)
Authors: Abderrahmane Abdelkader , Jung Pan-Gum , Woo Changlim , Ko Pil Ju
Published: May 2022

2D transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) and dichalcogenides (TMDCs) are promising candidates for next‐generation electronic devices and sensors. Herein, the fabrication and characterizations of back‐gated Si/SiO2/GaSe‐based (GaSe: gallium selenide) metal–oxide–semiconductor field‐effect transistors (MOSFETs) and top‐gated Gr/h‐BN/GaSe‐based (h‐BN: hexagonal boron nitride) metal–insulator–semiconductor field‐effect transistors (MISFETs) with a common active layer (GaSe) are reported. The morphological, electrical, and optoelectronic properties are investigated, and the device is found to exhibit p‐type behavior with good electrical tunability. At a laser power of 1.147 μW, the device exhibits a photoresponsivity of 90 mA W−1, ION/IOFF ratios exceeding 104, and long decay times. These promising experimental results can promote the application of GaSe‐based MISFETs in multifunctional electronic devices.
QFD for selecting key success factors in the implementation of quality 4.0
Authors: Dror Shuki
Published: May 2022

Industry 4.0 technological advancements over the last few years have generated a variety of interchangeable methods for achieving quality objectives. The present study seeks to create a framework that will facilitate the selection of key success factors in the implementation of Quality 4.0. Since the ways in which Quality 4.0 technologies can interact present a new industrial reality, our prioritization program addresses the synergy that can exist between technologies. The current study presents the development of a Quality Function Deployment (QFD) methodology for the effective implementation of Quality 4.0. The methodology extracts the desired improvements in quality objectives and translates them into the important Quality 4.0 technologies and, ultimately, into core implementation barriers that need to be reduced, ranked by importance. Normalized improvement scores were calculated at each of three hierarchical levels: quality objectives, Quality 4.0 technologies, and implementation barriers. The components to be improved at each level were selected using the Mean Square Error (MSE) criterion. The methodology was implemented in a food processing company. The vital few quality objectives to be improved were found to be stable quality, equipment reliability, customer satisfaction, and product related complaints. The most important technologies to be considered are big data, enabling technologies, statistics and data mining, and artificial intelligence. Concerns regarding cyber security and outdated systems/infrastructure are the most significant barriers to Quality 4.0 implementation.
Glow flow ionization mass spectrometry of small molecules. A comparison of a glow flow ionization source (‘GlowFlow’) with electrospray ionization and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization
Authors: Owen Rhodri N. , Bajic Stevan , Kelly Steven L. , Morris Michael R. , Brenton A. Gareth
Published: May 2022

Rationale

Ionization by atmospheric pressure gas discharge has been employed for a long time in mass spectrometry. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry is an exemplar, and widely used for elemental analysis. The technique has less uptake in organic mass spectrometry. We describe a simple source design that can be readily implemented in most atmospheric pressure ionization (API) systems and compare its performance with that of electrospray ionization (ESI) and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI).

Methods

An in‐house designed helium gas discharge source (referred to as ‘GlowFlow’) was used on a Xevo G2‐S time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer. The GlowFlow source was transferred to a compatible Xevo TQ‐S triple‐quadrupole mass spectrometer using an ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatograph inlet. Its performance was compared to that of Waters ESI and APCI sources.

Results

Preliminary results of GlowFlow on the Swansea instrument are presented to establish context and include analysis of low‐molecular‐mass polymers, benzoic acid and cinnamic acid. Comparison of performance on the Xevo TQ‐S triple‐quadrupole mass spectrometer involved three test mixtures. The method limits of detection (six‐mix) for positive‐ion GlowFlow source were between 0.03 and 10.00 pg with good linear response over two to four orders of magnitude and values of R2 > 0.98. The GlowFlow ionization source provided a signal intensity that was an order of magnitude greater than that of ESI for an atmospheric pressure gas chromatography standard mix and ionized several compounds that ESI could not.

Conclusions

The current GlowFlow design is relatively simple to retrofit to most API systems due to its small size. The sensitivity of the GlowFlow design is typically an order of magnitude less than that of ESI in positive‐ion mode, but similar in sensitivity in negative‐ion mode and comparable to that of APCI.
The development of an unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis of dual‐polarization weather surveillance radar observations to assess nocturnal insect abundance and diversity
Authors: Lukach Maryna , Dally Thomas , Evans William , Hassall Christopher , Duncan Elizabeth J. , Bennett Lindsay , Addison Freya I. , Kunin William E. , Chapman Jason W. , Neely Ryan R.
Published: May 2022

Contemporary analyses of insect population trends are based, for the most part, on a large body of heterogeneous and short‐term datasets of diurnal species that are representative of limited spatial domains. This makes monitoring changes in insect biomass and biodiversity difficult. What is needed is a method for monitoring that provides a consistent, high‐resolution picture of insect populations through time over large areas during day and night. Here, we explore the use of X‐band weather surveillance radar (WSR) for the study of local insect populations using a high‐quality, multi‐week time series of nocturnal moth light trapping data. Specifically, we test the hypotheses that (i) unsupervised data‐driven classification algorithms can differentiate meteorological and biological phenomena, (ii) the diversity of the classes of bioscatterers are quantitatively related to the diversity of insects as measured on the ground and (iii) insect abundance measured at ground level can be predicted quantitatively based on dual‐polarization Doppler WSR variables. Adapting the quasi‐vertical profile analysis method and data clustering techniques developed for the analysis of hydrometeors, we demonstrate that our bioscatterer classification algorithm successfully differentiates bioscatterers from hydrometeors over a large spatial scale and at high temporal resolutions. Furthermore, our results also show a clear relationship between biological and meteorological scatterers and a link between the abundance and diversity of radar‐based bioscatterer clusters and that of nocturnal aerial insects. Thus, we demonstrate the potential utility of this approach for landscape scale monitoring of biodiversity.
Handling parametric assumptions in principal causal effect estimation using Gaussian mixtures
Authors: Jo Booil
Published: May 2022

Given the latent stratum membership, principal stratification models with continuous outcomes naturally fit in the parametric estimation framework of Gaussian mixtures. However, with models that are not nonparametrically identified, relying on parametric mixture modeling has been mostly discouraged as a way of identifying principal effects. This study revisits this rather deserted use of parametric mixture modeling, which may open up various possibilities in principal stratification modeling. The main problem with using the parametric mixture modeling approach is that it is hard to assess the quality of principal effect estimates given its reliance on parametric conditions. As a way of assessing the estimation quality in this situation, this study proposes that we use parametric mixture modeling in two different ways, with and without the assurance of nonparametric identification. The key identifying assumption employed in this study is the moving exclusion restriction, a flexible version of the standard exclusion restriction assumption. This assumption is used as a temporary vehicle to help assess the quality of principal effect estimates obtained relying on parametric mixture modeling. The study presents promising results, showing the possibility of using parametric mixture modeling as an accessible tool for causal inference.
Towards the sustainability of small and medium software enterprises through the implementation of software process improvement: Empirical investigation
Authors: Balogun Abdullateef Oluwagbemiga , Almomani Malek , Basri Shuib , Almomani Omar , Capretz Luiz Fernando , Khan Arif Ali , Gilal Abdul Rehman , Baashar Yahia
Published: May 2022

To improve and sustain the quality of software products, software process improvement (SPI) is needed. Currently, small and medium software enterprises (SMSEs) represent a high proportion of companies around the world and become a cornerstone in the worldwide industry economy. These companies have realized that improving their process is crucial for success, but they are facing difficulties to implement it due to limited resources, limited knowledge, and time constraints. This study aimed to identify the sustainability success factors (SSFs) that have a positive impact on implementing SPI efforts in SMSEs. Data were collected through a systematic literature review (SLR) approach and quantitatively through a survey questionnaire. A list of 44 SSFs was identified during SLR and empirical study. Results illustrate that there is a positive correlation between the ranks obtained from both dataset (rs (44) = .548, ρ = .001). Therefore, there would be significant differences between the SSFs identified in both datasets. In conclusion, the top‐ranked factors can then be used to guide the SPI coordinators on where they should focus their attention to reach the desired SPI goals, which is crucial to deliver the software products and also facilitates in development of model for SPIs in the future.
Complementary Chemical Vapor Deposition Fabrication for Large‐Area Uniform Graphene Glass Fiber Fabric
Authors: Liu Ruojuan , Yuan Hao , Li Junliang , Huang Kewen , Wang Kun , Cheng Yi , Cheng Shuting , Li Wenjuan , Jiang Jun , Tu Ce , Qi Yue , Liu Zhongfan
Published: May 2022

The lightweight, flexible, high‐performance electrothermal material is in high demand in object thermal management. Graphene glass fiber fabric (GGFF) is characterized by excellent electrical conductivity, light weight, and high flexibility, showing superiorities as an electrothermal material. However, the traditional single‐carbon‐precursor chemical vapor deposition (CVD) graphene growth strategy commonly suffers from the severe thickness nonuniformity of the large‐sized graphene film along the gas‐flowing direction. Herein, a complementary CVD graphene growth strategy based on the simultaneous introduction of high‐ and low‐decomposition‐energy‐barrier mixed carbon precursors is developed. In this way, the large‐area uniform GGFF with a dramatically decreased nonuniformity coefficient is fabricated (0.260 in 40 cm × 4 cm). GGFF‐based heater presents a widely tunable temperature range (20–170 °C) at low working voltage (<10 V) and uniform large‐area heating temperature (171.4 ± 3.6 °C in 20 cm × 15 cm), which realizes remarkable anti/deicing performances under the low energy consumption (fast ice melting rate of 79 s mm−1 under a low energy consumption of 0.066 kWh mm−1 m−2). The large‐area uniform GGFF possesses substantial advantages for applications in thermal management, and the complementary CVD fabrication strategy shows reliable scalability and universality, which can be extended to the synthesis of various materials.
Adsorption of malachite green and chrysoidine‐Y by Sn‐pillared clay
Authors: Raghav Little , Patanjali Pooja , Patanjali Neeraj , Singh Rajeev
Published: May 2022

The aim of this research was to pillar the bentonite clay (Bt) with polyhydroxy tin chloride. The synthesized Tin‐pillared interlayer clay (Sn‐PILC) was characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared spectra (FT‐IR), Brunauer‐Emmer Teller (BET) analysis, Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Adsorption capacity of raw‐Bt and tin pillared interlayer clay (Sn‐PILC) was examined for two dyes, namely, Malachite Green (MG) and Chrysoidine‐Y (CY) from their aqueous solutions. The effects of physicochemical parameters like solution pH, dose, and dye concentration were investigated. The maximum adsorption efficiency at equilibrium dye concentration for Sn‐PILC was 66.229 mg g–1 for MG and 63.792 mg g–1 for CY. Sn‐PILC obeyed Langmuir isotherm for both the dyes whereas raw‐Bt followed Freundlich isotherm. On the other hand, both adsorbents followed PFO as well as PSO kinetic model, indicating physisorption assisted by chemisorption. Thermodynamic studies were performed to determine the adsorption behavior of Sn‐PILC for both the dyes. Regeneration studies revealed 80% efficiency up‐to five adsorption‐desorption cycles.
Data-driven analysis of a SUSY GUT of flavour
Authors: Bernigaud Jordan , Forster Adam K. , Herrmann Björn , King Stephen F. , Porod Werner , Rowley Samuel J.
Published: May 2022

Abstract

We present a data-driven analysis of a concrete Supersymmetric (SUSY) Grand Unified Theory (GUT) of flavour, based on SU(5) × S4, which predicts charged fermion and neutrino mass and mixing, and where the mass matrices of both the Standard Model and the Supersymmetric particles are controlled by a common symmetry at the GUT scale. This framework also predicts non-vanishing non-minimal flavour violating effects, motivating a sophisticated data-driven parameter analysis to uncover the signatures and viability of the model. This computer-intensive Markov-Chain-Monte-Carlo (MCMC) based analysis includes a large range of flavour as well as dark matter and SUSY observables, predicts distributions for a range of physical quantities which may be used to test the model. The predictions include maximally mixed sfermions, μ → eγ close to its experimental limit and successful bino-like dark matter with nearby winos (making direct detection unlikely), implying good prospects for discovering winos and gluinos at forthcoming collider runs. The results also demonstrate that the Georgi-Jarlskog mechanism does not provide a good description of the splitting of down type quark masses and charged leptons, while neutrinoless double beta decay is predicted at observable rates.
Reflected entropy in random tensor networks
Authors: Akers Chris , Faulkner Thomas , Lin Simon , Rath Pratik
Published: May 2022

Abstract

In holographic theories, the reflected entropy has been shown to be dual to the area of the entanglement wedge cross section. We study the same problem in random tensor networks demonstrating an equivalent duality. For a single random tensor we analyze the important non-perturbative effects that smooth out the discontinuity in the reflected entropy across the Page phase transition. By summing over all such effects, we obtain the reflected entanglement spectrum analytically, which agrees well with numerical studies. This motivates a prescription for the analytic continuation required in computing the reflected entropy and its Rényi generalization which resolves an order of limits issue previously identified in the literature. We apply this prescription to hyperbolic tensor networks and find answers consistent with holographic expectations. In particular, the random tensor network has the same non-trivial tripartite entanglement structure expected from holographic states. We furthermore show that the reflected Rényi spectrum is not flat, in sharp contrast to the usual Rényi spectrum of these networks. We argue that the various distinct contributions to the reflected entanglement spectrum can be organized into approximate superselection sectors. We interpret this as resulting from an effective description of the canonically purified state as a superposition of distinct tensor network states. Each network is constructed by doubling and gluing various candidate entanglement wedges of the original network. The superselection sectors are labelled by the different cross-sectional areas of these candidate entanglement wedges.
Women’s health: optimal nutrition throughout the lifecycle
Authors: Feskens Edith J. M. , Bailey Regan , Bhutta Zulfiqar , Biesalski Hans-Konrad , Eicher-Miller Heather , Krämer Klaus , Pan Wen-Harn , Griffiths James C.
Published: May 2022

Sex differences are an important consideration when researching and establishing policies for nutrition and optimal health. For women’s health, there are important physiologic, neurologic, and hormonal distinctions throughout the lifecycle that impact nutritional needs. Distinct from those for men, these nutritional needs must be translated into appropriate nutrition policy that aims to not only avoid overt nutritional deficiency, but also to promote health and minimize risk for chronic disease. Through a series of webinars, scientific experts discussed the advances in the understanding of the unique nutritional needs, challenges and opportunities of the various life stages for women across the life course and identified emerging nutritional interventions that may be beneficial for women. Nevertheless, there is concern that existing nutrition policy intended for women’s health is falling short with examples of programs that are focused more on delivering calories than achieving optimal nutrition. To be locally effective, targeted nutrition needs to offer different proposals for different cultural, socio-economic, and geographic communities, and needs to be applicable at all stages of growth and development. There must be adequate access to nutritious foods, and the information to understand and implement proven nutritional opportunities. Experts provided recommendations for improvement of current entitlement programs that will address accessibility and other social and environmental issues to support women properly throughout the lifecycle.
Skeletal muscle provides the immunological micro-milieu for specific plasma cells in anti-synthetase syndrome-associated myositis
Authors: Preuße Corinna , Paesler Barbara , Nelke Christopher , Cengiz Derya , Müntefering Thomas , Roos Andreas , Amelin Damien , Allenbach Yves , Uruha Akinori , Dittmayer Carsten , Hentschel Andreas , Pawlitzki Marc , Hoffmann Sarah , Timm Sara , Louis Sarah Leonard , Dengler Nora F. , Wiendl Heinz , Lünemann Jan D. , Sickmann Albert , Hervier Baptiste , Meuth Sven G. , Schneider Udo , Schänzer Anne , Krause Sabine , Tomaras Stylianos , Feist Eugen , Hasseli Rebecca , Goebel Hans-Hilmar , Gallay Laure , Streichenberger Nathalie , Benveniste Olivier , Stenzel Werner , Ruck Tobias
Published: May 2022

Anti-synthetase syndrome (ASyS)-associated myositis is a major subgroup of the idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) and is characterized by disease chronicity with musculoskeletal, dermatological and pulmonary manifestations. One of eight autoantibodies against the aminoacyl-transferase RNA synthetases (ARS) is detectable in the serum of affected patients. However, disease-specific therapeutic approaches have not yet been established.

To obtain a deeper understanding of the underlying pathogenesis and to identify putative therapeutic targets, we comparatively investigated the most common forms of ASyS associated with anti-PL-7, anti-PL-12 and anti-Jo-1. Our cohort consisted of 80 ASyS patients as well as healthy controls (n = 40), diseased controls (n = 40) and non-diseased controls (n = 20). We detected a reduced extent of necrosis and regeneration in muscle biopsies from PL-12+ patients compared to Jo-1+ patients, while PL-7+ patients had higher capillary dropout in biopsies of skeletal muscle. Aside from these subtle alterations, no significant differences between ASyS subgroups were observed. Interestingly, a tissue-specific subpopulation of CD138+ plasma cells and CXCL12+/CXCL13+CD20+ B cells common to ASyS myositis were identified. These cells were localized in the endomysium associated with alkaline phosphatase+ activated mesenchymal fibroblasts and CD68+MHC-II+CD169+ macrophages. An MHC-I+ and MHC-II+ MxA negative type II interferon-driven milieu of myofiber activation, topographically restricted to the perifascicular area and the adjacent perimysium, as well as perimysial clusters of T follicular helper cells defined an extra-medullary immunological niche for plasma cells and activated B cells. Consistent with this, proteomic analyses of muscle tissues from ASyS patients demonstrated alterations in antigen processing and presentation. In-depth immunological analyses of peripheral blood supported a B-cell/plasma-cell-driven pathology with a shift towards immature B cells, an increase of B-cell-related cytokines and chemokines, and activation of the complement system. We hypothesize that a B-cell-driven pathology with the presence and persistence of a specific subtype of plasma cells in the skeletal muscle is crucially involved in the self-perpetuating chronicity of ASyS myositis. This work provides the conceptual framework for the application of plasma-cell-targeting therapies in ASyS myositis.
Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) improves vision-related quality of life
Authors: Gellert Alexandra , Unterlauft Jan Darius , Rehak Matus , Girbardt Christian
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To evaluate vision-related quality of life (VRQL) before and after Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK).

Methods

The study was conducted in patients with Fuchs endothelial dystrophy or pseudophakic bullous keratopathy undergoing DMEK alone or in combination with cataract surgery (triple-DMEK) between August 2019 and March 2020 at the University of Leipzig Medical Center. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was measured. Visual acuity factor (VAF) and glare factor (GF) scores were calculated using the Visual Function and Corneal Health Status Instrument questionnaire answered by patients before surgery and 6 months thereafter. Subgroup analyses were performed for DMEK versus triple-DMEK, and for first versus second eyes, in addition to correlation analyses of scores with preoperative BCVA.

Results

Forty-six patients were included in this analysis. VAF score improved from 0.68 ± 0.54 to 0.02 ± 0.57 (P < 0.0001) and GF score improved from 0.53 ± 0.43 to -0.11 ± 0.39 (P < 0.0001) during follow-up. Both scores improved without significant differences after surgery in the first and in the fellow eye (P < 0.0001) and after DMEK and triple-DMEK (P < 0.0001). The improvement of scores did not correlate with preoperative BCVA (r = 0.06, P = 0.68 for VAF; r =  -0.09, P = 0.54 for GF).

Conclusion

VRQL improves similarly after DMEK and triple-DMEK and between first and second operated eye. The extent of improvement is independent of the preoperative BCVA. The results of this study can be useful when planning DMEK by enabling a prediction of anticipated VRQL gain.
Coexisting attractors in floating body dynamics undergoing parametric resonance
Authors: Habib Giuseppe , Giorgi Giuseppe , Davidson Josh
Published: May 2022

This study pertains to analysing the dynamical behaviour of a floating body undergoing parametric resonances. A simple vertical cylinder, representing a classical spar-buoy, is considered, limiting its motion to heave and pitch degrees of freedom. Its geometry and mass distribution are chosen such that a 2:1 ratio of heave to pitch/roll natural frequency makes the spar-buoy prone to parametric resonance. The system is then studied by the shooting method, combined with a pseudo-arclength continuation, and the harmonic balance procedure. Results show that an extensive bistable region exists, where stable parametric resonance coexists with a regular resonance response. The analysis also unveiled the existence of stable quasiperiodic motions existing in correspondence of both pitch and heave resonance. Results are qualitatively validated using a model based on the explicit nonlinear Froude–Krylov force calculation.
Two-body wear of occlusal splint materials from subtractive computer-aided manufacturing and three-dimensional printing
Authors: Schmeiser Felix , Baumert Uwe , Stawarczyk Bogna
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To investigate the two-body wear of occlusal splint materials fabricated from subtractive computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) compared to three-dimensional printing (3DP).

Material and methods

Forty-eight substrates (n = 12/material) in the design of a mandibular first molar were fabricated using CAM (CAM-TD, Thermeo, pro3dure medical GmbH, Iserlohn, Germany; CAM-CL, CLEARsplint, Astron Dental Corporation, Lake Zurich, USA) and 3DP (3DP-GI, GR22 flex, pro3dure medical GmbH; 3DP-KY, KeySplint soft, Keystone Industries, Gibbstown, USA). The substrates were subjected to mastication simulation (120,000 cycles, 37 °C, 50 N, 1.3 Hz) opposed to enamel antagonists. The two-body wear was measured through matching of the scanned substrates before and after aging using Gaussian best-fit method. The damage patterns were categorized and evaluated based on microscopic examinations. Data was analyzed using Kolmogorov–Smirnov test followed by 1-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Pearson correlation was calculated between vertical and volumetric material loss. The failure types were analyzed with Chi2-test and Ciba Geigy table.

Results

No difference in two-body wear results between all materials was found (p = 0.102). Fatigue substrates showed a perforation for CAM and a fracture for 3DP. No abrasion losses on the antagonists were detected.

Conclusions

3DP substrates showed no differences in two-body wear compared to CAM ones but are more likely to show a fracture. None of the tested materials caused an abrasion on human teeth structure.

Clinical relevance

While therapies with occlusal splint materials are rising, 3DP offers a promising alternative to CAM in terms of production accuracy and therapeutic success at reduced costs.
Antibody response to BNT162b2 SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine in adult patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Pellicano Chiara , Campagna Roberta , Oliva Alessandra , Leodori Giorgia , Miglionico Marzia , Colalillo Amalia , Mezzaroma Ivano , Mastroianni Claudio Maria , Turriziani Ombretta , Rosato Edoardo
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients are at risk for a severe disease course during SARS-CoV-2 infection either due to comorbidities or immunosuppression. The availability of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines is crucial for the prevention of this hard-to-treat illness. The aim of this study is to assess the humoral response after mRNA vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in SSc patients.

Method

Seropositivity rate and serum IgG levels were evaluated 1 month (t1) and 3 months (t3) after the second dose of vaccine in a cohort of SSc patients and healthy controls (HC). Differences were made with Student’s or Mann–Whitney’s t-test and with the chi-square or Fisher exact test. Logistic regression model including immunosuppressive treatments (corticosteroids, CCS; mycophenolate mofetil, MMF; methotrexate, MTX; rituximab, RTX) was built to assess the predictivity for seropositivity.

Results

The seropositivity rate was similar in 78 SSc patients compared to 35 HC at t1 but lower at t3. SSc patients had lower serum IgG levels than HC at t1 but not at t3. SSc patients treated with immunosuppressive therapy showed both a lower seropositive rate (t1, 90.3% vs 100%; t3, 87.1% vs 97.9%; p < 0.05) and serum IgG levels than untreated patients both at t1 [851 BAU/ml (IQR 294–1950) vs 1930 BAU/ml (IQR 1420–3020); p < 0.001] and t3 [266 BAU/ml (IQR 91.7–597) vs 706 BAU/ml (IQR 455–1330); p < 0.001]. In logistic regression analysis, only MTX was significant [OR 39.912 (95% CI 1.772–898.728); p < 0.05].

Conclusions

SSc patients treated with MTX had a lower serological response to mRNA vaccine, and even low doses of CCS can adversely affect antibody titer and vaccination response.

Key Points• SSc patients are able to produce vaccine-induced antibodies after mRNA vaccination.• In SSc patients, clinical characteristics of disease did not influence seropositivity rate.• In SSc patients, even low doses of CCS can adversely affect antibody titer and vaccination response.• In SSc patients, MTX treatment is mainly associated with reduced seropositivity and lower serum IgG levels.
Assessing the treatment pattern, health care resource utilisation, and economic burden of multiple myeloma in France using the Système National des Données de Santé (SNDS) database: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Bessou Antoine , Colin Xavier , De Nascimento Julie , Sopwith Will , Ferrante Shannon , Gorsh Boris , Gutierrez Benjamin , Sansbury Leah , Willson Jenny , Sapra Sandhya , Paka Prani , Wang Feng
Published: May 2022

Background

Real-world data on health care resource utilisation (HCRU) and costs for French patients with multiple myeloma (MM) are limited due to the quickly evolving MM treatment landscape. This retrospective, national-level study quantified the MM economic burden in France.

Methods

The study included patients with newly diagnosed MM from the Système National des Données de Santé coverage claims database between 2013 and 2018 who received active treatment within 30 days of diagnosis. HCRU included hospitalisations, drugs, consultations, procedures, tests, devices, transport, and sick leave. Costs were annualized to 2019 prices. Drug treatments, reported by line of therapy (LOT), were algorithmically defined using drug regimen, duration of therapy, and gaps between treatments. Analyses were stratified by stem cell transplantation status and LOT.

Results

Among 6413 eligible patients, 6229 (97.1%) received ≥ 1 identifiable LOT; most received 1 (39.8%) or 2 LOT (27.5%) during follow-up. Average annual hospitalisation was 6.3 episodes/patient/year (median duration: 11.6 days). The average annual cost/patient was €58.3 K. Key cost drivers were treatment (€28.2 K; 39.5% of total HCRU within one year of MM diagnosis) and hospitalisations (€22.2 K; 48.6% of total HCRU costs in first year). Monthly treatment-related costs increased from LOT1 (€2.447 K) and LOT5 + (€7.026 K); only 9% of patients received LOT5 + . At LOT4 + , 37 distinct regimens were identified. Hospitalisation costs were higher in patients with stem cell transplantation than total population, particularly in the first year.

Conclusions

This study showed a high economic burden of MM in France (€72.37 K/patient/year in the first year) and the diversity of regimens used in late-line treatments.