bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multifunctional Nano‐Biomaterials for Cancer Therapy via Inducing Enhanced Immunogenic Cell Death
Authors: Chen Qian , Li Chunyan , Wang Qiangbin
Published: January 2023

Immunotherapy is considered to be one of the most promising methods to overcome cancer. Immunogenic cell death (ICD), as a special form of cell death that can trigger an antitumor immune response, has attracted increasing attention for cancer immunotherapy. Presently, ICD‐mediating immunotherapy needs to overcome many hurdles including a lack of targeted delivery systems for ICD inducers, insufficient antitumor immunity, and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Recent research has demonstrated that nano‐biomaterials exhibit unique biochemphysical properties at the nanoscale, providing a prospective approach to overcoming these obstacles. In this review, the authors first survey the occurrence, processes, and detection methods of ICD. Subsequently, the recent advances of nano‐biomaterials applied to enhance ICD according to the key steps in the process of ICD, particularly with a focus on the mechanisms and lifting schemes are investigated. Finally, based on the achievement in the representative studies, the prospects and challenges of nanotechnology in ICD for cancer therapy are discussed to enable clinical translation.
Standardized models for cracking due to restraint of imposed strains—The state of the art
Authors: Jędrzejewska Agnieszka , Zych Mariusz , Kanavaris Fragkoulis , Chen Fangjie , Ito Shintaro , Torrenti Jean Michel , Schlicke Dirk , Asamoto Shingo , Azenha Miguel
Published: January 2023

Crack control throughout the service life of a structure has always been a challenging task for engineers and asset owners, particularly those who are involved with the design and construction of structures with increased durability requirements, such as liquid retaining structures, nuclear containment buildings or structures in direct contact with ground, but also other externally restrained structures. For these reasons, several standardized methods exist throughout the global engineering community which encompass differences between them. This work is a state‐of‐the‐art review of the methods for crack width control due to imposed strains recommended by different regulatory documents from Europe, USA, Australia and Japan, and provide a reasonable degree of guidance with respect to the assumptions, possibilities and restrictions of each method. This work resonates with the scope of the RILEM TC 287‐CCS: Early age and long‐term crack width analysis in RC structures.
Ionic Liquids Containing Silsesquioxane and Cyclic Siloxane Frameworks
Authors: Kaneko Yoshiro
Published: January 2023

This paper describes the author's recent work on the preparation and properties of thermally stable ionic liquids (ILs) containing siloxane frameworks. Quaternary ammonium and imidazolium salt‐type ILs containing random oligosilsesquioxane frameworks were successfully prepared via the hydrolytic condensation of the corresponding organotrialkoxysilanes by using an aqueous superacid bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (HNTf2) solution as a catalyst and solvent. Imidazolium salt‐type ILs containing polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) frameworks were also prepared through a reaction similar to that described above by using a water/methanol mixed solution of HNTf2. In addition, amorphous POSSs with two types of ionic groups randomly distributed in the side chain were prepared. These POSSs were ILs exhibiting fluidity at relatively low temperatures. Furthermore, imidazolium and ammonium salt‐type ILs containing cyclic oligosiloxane frameworks were prepared through a reaction similar to that of the corresponding organodialkoxysilanes. The thermal decomposition temperatures of the above ILs containing siloxane frameworks were higher than those of general ILs.
Preparation and rheology of titanium dioxide nanoparticles loaded κ‐carrageenan hydrogel beads strengthened by mixed salts for multipollutant water remediation
Authors: Patel Panchami , Gangwar Pratibha , Thareja Prachi
Published: January 2023

Hydrogel beads are emerging as alternate adsorbent material for the batch or continuous column treatment of dye wastewater. Polysaccharide‐based gel beads are preferred for their uniform shape and size, large specific surface area, and easy separation by filtration and subsequent reuse. In this work, we prepare and rheologically characterize UV‐active κ‐carrageenan/TiO2 beads for the adsorption and degradation of dyes. The 3–4 mm sized nanocomposite beads are formed by the extrusion of κ‐carrageenan/TiO2 gel solution in salt solutions. The maximum increase in modulus was observed with the addition of 1% w/v TiO2 to κ‐carrageenan and subsequent crosslinking with mixed salt of KCl and CaCl2. κ‐carrageenan/TiO2 beads crosslinked by mixed salt of KCl and CaCl2 have higher adsorption capacity, as compared to beads crosslinked with single salt of KCl. The kinetic study indicated the chemisorption of Methylene Blue on the bead surface. κ‐carrageenan/TiO2 beads showed higher degradation for Methylene Blue and Nile Blue A than Rhodamine B in 5 and 50 ppm each multicomponent dye systems under UV irradiation. The κ‐carrageenan/TiO2 beads could form a porous column for the selective adsorption of positively charged dyes from a multicomponent dye system.
Magnetic Signature of Gold Deposits: Example from Um Garayat Region, South Eastern Desert, Egypt
Authors: Gobashy Mohamed Mostafa , Mekkawi Mahmoud M. , Araffa Sultan Awad Sultan , Ezz Eldin Moahmed M. , Khalil Mohamed Hassan
Published: January 2023

Magnetic methods of exploration have proved to be efficient and have potential in the gold mineralization industry. New magnetic processing technologies aid in improving the process of interpretation and gold opportunity identification. In this work, we show the possible application of combined digital magnetic filters to explore new gold mineralization localities with application to a well-known Au mineralization zone. Um Garayat (UG) region, southeastern desert, Egypt, is an ancient example of a potential area for gold mining. Modern analysis showed that other types of mineral concentrations are present. So, exploiting the magnetic signature of the area for future investment is of great interest. The old UG gold mine is characterized by volcanic and tectonic features such as faulting and folding that affect the arc sedimentary rock sequence of repeated deformation stages. A thorough geophysical effort has been carried out around the old gold mine in the UG area to explore the extension of mineralized ore deposits. A detailed geophysical survey using magnetics was carried out in this study together with the available aeromagnetic data. Field data sets on appropriate sites were measured, processed, and evaluated by suitable software. High magnetic anomalies were detected based on grid filter analysis and contact occurrence maps as marked as possible ore deposits after satisfying the geologic conditions for gold formation. An integrated understanding of attained results revealed that the new possible ore deposits are related directly to fault and fracture zones in the shape of lenses of variable thickness in this zone. Results show that newly detected mineral occurrences in the UG area are also controlled by major faults and hydrothermal solution enrichment along fault zones at a depth ranging from 20 to 70 m. Favorable fault/joint mineralized places were located. The relationship between the Au-quartz vein's strike direction compared with magnetic anomaly lineament analysis was studied. Search for new sources of Au and other mineral deposits in addition to quartz veins is needed as pockets of accumulated mineral-rich rock fragments are deposited in drainage wadis and fault/joint zones because of hydrothermal solution enrichment.
Metric Compactness Criteria Involving Sequences of Mappings and a Proof of the Ascoli–Arzelà Theorem with the use of Bernstein Polynomials
Authors: Jachymski Jacek
Published: January 2023

We establish inter alia a compactness criterion in metric spaces involving a sequence of completely continuous mappings, which is continuously convergent, in the sense of H. Hahn, to the identity mapping. For Banach spaces, the linear version of that result coincides with the compactness theorem due to Mazur. We also present a new proof of the Ascoli–Arzelà theorem, in which we use the above compactness criterion applied to the sequence of Bernstein operators.
Towards circular economy by valorization of waste upholstery textile fibers in fibrous wood-based composites production
Authors: Suchorab Barbara , Wronka Anita , Kowaluk Grzegorz
Published: January 2023

The aim of the research was to utilize textile waste by adding upholstery fabric fibers with different content (0, 5, 10, and 20% by weight referred to dry wood fibers) to high density fiberboards (HDF) and analyze selected physical and mechanical properties of the obtained boards. Tests of mechanical (modulus of elasticity in bending and bending strength, surface soundness, internal bond, screw withdrawal resistance) and physical (density profile, swelling in thickness after immersion in water, water absorption) properties were performed. The results show that the increasing content of textile fibers in HDF panels has the strongest negative influence on mechanical properties, especially internal bond, and screw withdrawal resistance. Modulus of elasticity and modulus of rupture also decreased, but still fulfilled the requirements of European standards. No significant influence of rising content of textile fibers on HDF thickness swelling and water absorption has been found. It can be concluded that, depending on further application of HDF, it is possible to utilize the recovered upholstery textile fibers as a reasonable addition to wood fibers when producing HDF panels. It is also a step toward carbon storage extension, which is fixed in textile fibers.
The radiologist’s role in a multidisciplinary approach to cancer in pregnancy
Authors: Harwin Joelle , Jha Priyanka , Post Annalisa , Silverstein Jordyn , Van Loon Katherine , Poder Liina
Published: January 2023

Pregnancy-associated cancer (PAC) occurs in approximately 1 in 1000 pregnancies, and the incidence is expected to rise due to delayed childbearing (Silverstein et al. in JCO Oncol Pract 16:545–557, 2020; Woitek et al. in ESMO Open 1:e000017, 2016). Diagnosis and management of PACs are challenging and diagnosis is often delayed as symptoms may overlap with physiologic changes of pregnancy (Jha et al. in RadioGraphics 42:220005, 2022). These patients are best cared for by a multidisciplinary healthcare team composed of experts (Silverstein et al. in JCO Oncol Pract 16:545–557, 2020). Management of these patients must balance optimal maternal care with potentially harmful fetal effects. This involves honest, forthright, and sometimes difficult discussions between the care team and the patient throughout the entirety of care. Radiologists play a significant role in timely cancer diagnosis, staging and follow-up during and after pregnancy, accurate determination of gestational age, and in assessing fetal growth and well-being throughout pregnancy.
Fully automated accurate patient positioning in computed tomography using anterior–posterior localizer images and a deep neural network: a dual-center study
Authors: Salimi Yazdan , Shiri Isaac , Akavanallaf Azadeh , Mansouri Zahra , Arabi Hossein , Zaidi Habib
Published: January 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to improve patient positioning accuracy by relying on a CT localizer and a deep neural network to optimize image quality and radiation dose.

Methods

We included 5754 chest CT axial and anterior–posterior (AP) images from two different centers, C1 and C2. After pre-processing, images were split into training (80%) and test (20%) datasets. A deep neural network was trained to generate 3D axial images from the AP localizer. The geometric centerlines of patient bodies were indicated by creating a bounding box on the predicted images. The distance between the body centerline, estimated by the deep learning model and ground truth (BCAP), was compared with patient mis-centering during manual positioning (BCMP). We evaluated the performance of our model in terms of distance between the lung centerline estimated by the deep learning model and the ground truth (LCAP).

Results

The error in terms of BCAP was − 0.75 ± 7.73 mm and 2.06 ± 10.61 mm for C1 and C2, respectively. This error was significantly lower than BCMP, which achieved an error of 9.35 ± 14.94 and 13.98 ± 14.5 mm for C1 and C2, respectively. The absolute BCAP was 5.7 ± 5.26 and 8.26 ± 6.96 mm for C1 and C2, respectively. The LCAP metric was 1.56 ± 10.8 and −0.27 ± 16.29 mm for C1 and C2, respectively. The error in terms of BCAP and LCAP was higher for larger patients (p value < 0.01).

Conclusion

The accuracy of the proposed method was comparable to available alternative methods, carrying the advantage of being free from errors related to objects blocking the camera visibility.

Key Points

• Patient mis-centering in the anterior–posterior direction (AP) is a common problem in clinical practice which can degrade image quality and increase patient radiation dose.

• We proposed a deep neural network for automatic patient positioning using only the CT image localizer, achieving a performance comparable to alternative techniques, such as the external 3D visual camera.

• The advantage of the proposed method is that it is free from errors related to objects blocking the camera visibility and that it could be implemented on imaging consoles as a patient positioning support tool.
Experimental and theoretical investigations on the modulation capabilities of a sample of vertical cavity surface emitting laser diodes for atomic vapour applications
Authors: Amtmann Christoph , Lammegger Roland , Betzler Alexander , Agú Martín , Ellmeier Michaela , Hagen Christian , Jernej Irmgard , Magnes Werner , Pollinger Andreas , Ernst Wolfgang E.
Published: January 2023

This paper discusses various frequency modulation and intensity modulation capabilities within a sample of direct laser current modulated identical vertical cavity surface emitting laser diodes. The presented analysis is based on measurements of the spectral amplitudes as a function of the applied modulation power at a constant modulation frequency of 3.517 GHz. Their evaluation by Bessel function fits produces the three modulation parameters: frequency modulation index, intensity modulation index (via the $$\alpha$$
α
parameter) and the side band asymmetry of the first order side bands. The variation of the laser diode’s modulation capability is discussed. It is found that the individual laser diodes show a significant variations in their modulation capabilities. Thus an experimental preselection of the laser diode is required to find laser diodes which are suitable as a light source for atomic vapour applications, with special emphasis on a coherent population trapping-based scalar magnetometers.
Analysis and 3D correction of glenoid dysplasia with metal hemi-wedge base plate augment: short-term radiographic outcomes
Authors: Guehring Thorsten , Navas Luis , Westrich Jan , Zimmerer Alexander , Schmidt Sebastian , Barrientos Miguel , Ulmar Benjamin
Published: January 2023

Background

Glenoid defects can be addressed traditionally by asymmetric reaming or by bone-preserving correction to a more lateral joint line by bone or metal augmented baseplates in reverse shoulder arthroplasties. While there is more evidence in literature regarding the outcome and complications of Bony Increased Offset Reversed Shoulder Arthroplasty (BIO-RSA), there is minimal reported experience with the outcome after metal glenoid augments. The aim of this study was to determine whether a metal augment can correct the glenoid deformity in an anatomic manner.

Methods

Glenoid morphology and deformity were determined in 50 patients with Walch type B1, B2, D and Favard type E0–E3 glenoid defects using preoperative radiographic and computed tomography (CT) analysis. All patients received a preoperative planning CT with 3D planning, and measurements of glenoid inclination (in 3 planes proximal, middle, distal), reversed shoulder arthroplasty angle (RSA) and glenoid version were obtained. All patients had a pathologic inclination in the coronal or frontal planes of > 10°. Above the threshold of 10° pathological glenoid version or inclination metal hemi-augments of 10°, 20°, or 30° were used which allow an individual 360° augment positioning according to the patient glenoid deformity.

Results

The mean preoperative numbers of the glenoid version demonstrate that most glenoids were in retroversion and superior inclination. In total 2410° wedges, 1820° wedges and 8 30° wedges were used. In the majority of cases, the wedge was positioned posteriorly and/or cranially between 10:00 and 12:00 o’clock, which allows a correction in a 3D manner of the glenoid inclination and version. The mean RSA angle could be corrected from 22.76 ± 6.06 to 0.19° ± 2.7 (p < 0.0001). The highest retroversion of the glenoid is evidenced in the proximal section and it could be corrected from − 23.32° ± 4.56 to − 6.74° ± 7.75 (p < 0.0001) and in the middle section from − 18.93° ± 3.35 to − 7.66° ± 5.28 (p < 0.0001). A mean sphere bone overhang distance (SBOD) of 5.70 ± 2.04 mm was found in order to avoid or minimize relevant scapular notching.

Conclusion

By using a new 360° metal-augmented baseplate, the preoperative pathological inclination and retroversion can be corrected without medialization of the joint line. Future clinical results will show whether this bone-preserving procedure improves also the clinical outcomes as compared to asymmetric medialized reaming or wedged BIO-RSA.

Level of evidence

Level IV, Case series.
Risk factors associated with 31-day unplanned hospital readmission in newborns: a systematic review
Authors: Della Phillip R. , Huang Haichao , Roberts Pamela A. , Porter Paul , Adams Elizabeth , Zhou Huaqiong
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this study is to synthesize evidence on risk factors associated with newborn 31-day unplanned hospital readmissions (UHRs). A systematic review was conducted searching CINAHL, EMBASE (Ovid), and MEDLINE from January 1st 2000 to 30th June 2021. Studies examining unplanned readmissions of newborns within 31 days of discharge following the initial hospitalization at the time of their birth were included. Characteristics of the included studies examined variables and statistically significant risk factors were extracted from the inclusion studies. Extracted risk factors could not be pooled statistically due to the heterogeneity of the included studies. Data were synthesized using content analysis and presented in narrative and tabular form. Twenty-eight studies met the eligibility criteria, and 17 significant risk factors were extracted from the included studies. The most frequently cited risk factors associated with newborn readmissions were gestational age, postnatal length of stay, neonatal comorbidity, and feeding methods. The most frequently cited maternal-related risk factors which contributed to newborn readmissions were parity, race/ethnicity, and complications in pregnancy and/or perinatal period.

Conclusion: This systematic review identified a complex and diverse range of risk factors associated with 31-day UHR in newborn. Six of the 17 extracted risk factors were consistently cited by studies. Four factors were maternal (primiparous, mother being Asian, vaginal delivery, maternal complications), and two factors were neonatal (male infant and neonatal comorbidities). Implementation of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for inpatient care and individualized hospital-to-home transition plans, including transition checklists and discharge readiness assessments, are recommended to reduce newborn UHRs.

What is Known:• Attempts have been made to identify risk factors associated with newborn UHRs; however, the results are inconsistent.

What is New:• Six consistently cited risk factors related to newborn 31-day UHRs. Four maternal factors (primiparous, mother being Asian, vaginal delivery, maternal complications) and 2 neonatal factors (male infant and neonatal comorbidities).• The importance of discharge readiness assessment, including newborn clinical fitness for discharge and parental readiness for discharge. Future research is warranted to establish standardised maternal and newborn-related variables which healthcare providers can utilize to identify newborns at greater risk of UHRs and enable comparison of research findings.
Analytical dosimetric study of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for prostate cancer
Authors: Samir Fady , Meaz Talaat M. , Hussiny Fathi AEl , Ahmed Ahmed A. , Mahmoud Amr A. , Refaat Tamer , Gawish Ahmed , Abouegylah Mohamed
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The study aimed to compare the dosimetric results and treatment delivery efficiency among four techniques to explore the preferred technique in prostate treatment.

Materials and methods

7 IMRT, 9 IMRT, 1 ARC, and 2 ARC plans were created for 30 prostate cancer patients using the Eclipse™ treatment planning system (Varian Medical Systems). All the plans were designed to deliver 80.0 Gy in 40 fractions to the prostate planning target volume (PTV). Target coverage, organs at risk (OARs), number of monitor units, homogeneity, and conformity were compared across the four techniques to assess the quality of the plans.

Results

The study revealed better Planning Target Volume (PTV) dose coverage in the VMAT-2A than in the other plans. At the same time, VMAT-2A plans were found to be significantly lower in terms of Bladder and rectum doses than other techniques. In addition, VMAT has the advantage of considerably reducing the number of monitor units and treatment time.

Conclusion

For prostate cancer, VMAT may offer a favorable dose gradient profile, conformity, and MU and treatment time compared to IMRT.
Integrating Nijenhuis structures
Authors: Pugliese Fabrizio , Sparano Giovanni , Vitagliano Luca
Published: January 2023

A Nijenhuis operator on a manifold is a (1, 1) tensor whose Nijenhuis torsion vanishes. A Nijenhuis operator $${\mathcal {N}}$$
N
determines a Lie algebroid that knows everything about $${\mathcal {N}}$$
N
. In this sense, a Nijenhuis operator is an infinitesimal object. In this paper, we identify its global counterpart. Namely, we characterize Lie groupoids integrating the Lie algebroid of a Nijenhuis operator. We illustrate our integration result in various examples, including that of a linear Nijenhuis operator on a vector space or, which is equivalent, a pre-Lie algebra structure.
Genetic variation of Picea abies in response to the artificial inoculation of Heterobasidion parviporum
Authors: Durodola Blessing , Blumenstein Kathrin , Terhonen Eeva
Published: January 2023

Norway spruce Picea abies is one of Europe’s most economically important tree species. However, it is highly susceptible to the root rot fungus Heterobasidion parviporum. Climate change will benefit the pathogen as the tree host is weakened by, e.g., extended drought. Breeding can improve forest health, and several root rot genetic markers are suggested to improve the resistance of Norway spruce. This study aimed to compare the resistance (here defined as necrosis length) of Norway spruce families and genotypes against two strains of H. parviporum under different water availabilities. Our results show that the family and the genotype within the family have an impact on the necrosis length that is related to the aggressiveness of the fungal strains. Under low water conditions, the necrosis increased only in horizontal directions in phloem and sapwood. Similarly, the growth (seedling height) was not disturbed by abiotic stress (less water), indicating that the stress level (drought) was too low in this setting. The knowledge gained in this study could improve forest health in the changing climate by understanding the response of Norway spruce to pathogenic attacks under additional stress at the family level. This knowledge could be strategically used in forest breeding to improve the resistance of Norway spruce trees against root rot.
Modelling the influence of thinning intensity and frequency on the future provision of ecosystem services in Mediterranean mountain pine forests
Authors: Simon Diana-Cristina , Ameztegui Aitor
Published: January 2023

Thinnings are silvicultural operations that repetitively reduce tree density to improve the vigour of the remaining trees and the economic benefits of the stands. Thinning can also enhance the provision of various ecosystem services throughout the rotation period. In this study, we use a modelling approach to evaluate stand dynamics and the provision of ecosystem services (mushroom production, wood for timber, carbon storage, blue water, and habitat for biodiversity) in Mediterranean mountain pine forests. We simulated thirteen thinning regimes—defined by intensity and frequency—under two different climate change scenarios. We implemented the thinning regimes using SORTIE-ND, an individual-based model of forest dynamics, and then we used models developed for the study area to calculate the provision of services. We used as a case study Pinus sylvestris and Pinus nigra stands, and we evaluated the effect of the thinning regime, climate change, and forest type over 100 years. Our simulations suggest that the production of timber and carbon decreased with increasing intensity and shortening frequency of thinnings, while the provision of mushrooms and blue water generally increased under those conditions. Large timber was better supported by a thinning regime with heavy intensity and shorter frequencies, which also favoured the rapid presence of large dead trees (dbh > 30 cm) in the stand. We found synergies between the production of timber and carbon, while the provision of mushrooms and particularly blue water were in a trade-off relationship with these services. Our simulations show that climate change will lower the production of ecosystem services under the most severe climate predictions and alter the effect of different regimes on the provision of services. We conclude that our modelling approach is a useful and efficient tool for answering questions that would otherwise require long-term studies, and that it can provide useful information to guide management efforts to adapt forest management to the challenges of climate change.
Understanding the impact of wild boar on the European wild rabbit and red-legged partridge populations using a diet metabarcoding approach
Authors: Carpio Antonio J. , Queirós João , Laguna Eduardo , Jiménez-Ruiz Saúl , Vicente Joaquín , Alves Paulo C. , Acevedo Pelayo
Published: January 2023

European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa) are main small game species of conservation concern in Mediterranean ecosystems. To date, their presence in wild boar’s (Sus scrofa) diet and factors driving their consumption have been little investigated. A genetic metabarcoding approach was used on 80 wild boar faeces collected from four hunting estates devoted to small game hunting during two different seasons. Abundances of wild boar, rabbits and partridges were first estimated. Results showed DNA of seventeen chordate species. The highest frequency of occurrence (FO) corresponded to mammals and birds, with 77.6 and 22.3%, respectively. DNA of game species was detected in 39/71 (FO = 55.0%) samples, highlighting the presence of European wild rabbit in 27 (FO = 38.0%) and red-legged partridge in eight (FO = 11.3%). Dietary composition varied between seasons and estates, being rabbit the main responsible (explaining 35.26% and 39.45% of differences, respectively). Rabbit FO in the diet was positively related to the abundance of wild boar and rabbit density on the estate. It was greater in autumn and in estates where rabbits were hunted. Regarding red-legged partridge, a significant and positive relationship between its population density and its diet FO was observed, without significant differences between seasons or estates. Overall, our results suggest wild boar as an opportunistic species whose diet is largely determined by the relative availability of different food resources. Its ecological role concerning small game species in Mediterranean agroecosystems seems to be more related to consumption of carrion during the hunting season than to direct predation.
The Influence of the FFAR4 Agonist TUG-891 on Liver Steatosis in ApoE-Knockout Mice
Authors: Kiepura Anna , Suski Maciej , Stachyra Kamila , Kuś Katarzyna , Czepiel Klaudia , Wiśniewska Anna , Ulatowska-Białas Magdalena , Olszanecki Rafał
Published: January 2023

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) constitutes an independent risk factor for the development of coronary heart disease. Low-grade inflammation has been shown to play an important role in the development of atherosclerosis and NAFLD. Free fatty acid receptor 4 (FFAR4/GPR120), which is involved in damping inflammatory reactions, may represent a promising target for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of TUG-891, the synthetic agonist of FFAR4/GPR120, on fatty liver in vivo.

Methods

The effect of TUG-891 on fatty liver was investigated in apoE−/− mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD), using microscopic, biochemical, molecular, and proteomic methods.

Results

Treatment with TUG-891 inhibited the progression of liver steatosis in apoE−/− mice, as evidenced by histological analysis, and reduced the accumulation of TG in the liver. This action was associated with a decrease in plasma AST levels. TUG-891 decreased the expression of liver genes and proteins involved in de novo lipogenesis (Srebp-1c, Fasn and Scd1) and decreased the expression of genes related to oxidation and uptake (Acox1, Ehhadh, Cd36, Fabp1). Furthermore, TUG-891 modified the levels of selected factors related to glucose metabolism (decreased Glut2, Pdk4 and Pklr, and increased G6pdx).

Conclusion

Pharmacological stimulation of FFAR4 may represent a promising lead in the search for drugs that inhibit NAFLD.

Graphical abstract
Intolerance of Uncertainty and Emotional Processing in Adolescence: Separating Between-Person Stability and Within-Person Change
Authors: Lauriola Marco , Iannattone Sara , Bottesi Gioia
Published: January 2023

Previous research on the relation between Intolerance of Uncertainty (IU) and Emotional Processing (EP) during adolescence is limited. The present study aimed to clarify how IU and EP evolve over time, to what extent they are related, and whether changes in one precede or follow changes in the other. A total of 457 Italian adolescents (53.1% girls) aged 11 to 18 years (M = 14.1 ± 2.27) completed the IU and EP scales on three separate occasions three months apart (T1, T2, and T3). Data were modeled using a Random-Intercept Cross-Lagged Panel Model (RI-CLPM) that separates individual differences between individuals from intraindividual changes. Descriptive analyses showed that IU was relatively stable between T1 and T2 and decreased slightly between T2 and T3. Consistent with the view that emotion regulation improves as adolescents develop, EP difficulties were found to decrease between T1 and T2 and between T2 and T3. The RI-CLPM revealed a strong between-person effect, showing that individual differences in IU and EP remained consistent throughout the study. In addition, significant within-person change was found, with adolescents who increased their IU at T1 and T2 also increasing their EP difficulties at T2 and T3, respectively. The opposite effect had a smaller effect size. In sum, our study showed that IU and EP are intertwined in adolescents and that changes in IU precede corresponding changes in EP. These results suggest a priority of change between IU and EP and confirm the relationship between IU and emotion regulation problems in adolescence.
A Survey of Robotic Harvesting Systems and Enabling Technologies
Authors: Droukas Leonidas , Doulgeri Zoe , Tsakiridis Nikolaos L. , Triantafyllou Dimitra , Kleitsiotis Ioannis , Mariolis Ioannis , Giakoumis Dimitrios , Tzovaras Dimitrios , Kateris Dimitrios , Bochtis Dionysis
Published: January 2023

This paper presents a comprehensive review of ground agricultural robotic systems and applications with special focus on harvesting that span research and commercial products and results, as well as their enabling technologies. The majority of literature concerns the development of crop detection, field navigation via vision and their related challenges. Health monitoring, yield estimation, water status inspection, seed planting and weed removal are frequently encountered tasks. Regarding robotic harvesting, apples, strawberries, tomatoes and sweet peppers are mainly the crops considered in publications, research projects and commercial products. The reported harvesting agricultural robotic solutions, typically consist of a mobile platform, a single robotic arm/manipulator and various navigation/vision systems. This paper reviews reported development of specific functionalities and hardware, typically required by an operating agricultural robot harvester; they include (a) vision systems, (b) motion planning/navigation methodologies (for the robotic platform and/or arm), (c) Human-Robot-Interaction (HRI) strategies with 3D visualization, (d) system operation planning & grasping strategies and (e) robotic end-effector/gripper design. Clearly, automated agriculture and specifically autonomous harvesting via robotic systems is a research area that remains wide open, offering several challenges where new contributions can be made.
Content validity and psychometric properties of the inFLUenza Patient-Reported Outcome Plus (FLU-PRO Plus©) instrument in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Keeley Tom J. H. , Satram Sacha , Ghafoori Parima , Reyes Carolina , Birch Helen J. , Raymond Kimberly , Gelhorn Heather L. , Kosinski Mark , Saucier Cory D. , Mitchell Foster April , Lopuski Amanda , Powers John H.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

A well-defined and reliable patient-reported outcome instrument for COVID-19 is important for assessing symptom severity and supporting research studies. The InFLUenza Patient-Reported Outcome (FLU-PRO) instrument has been expanded to include loss of taste and smell in the FLU-PRO Plus, to comprehensively cover COVID-19 symptoms. Our studies were designed to evaluate and validate the FLU-PRO Plus among patients with COVID-19.

Methods

Two studies were conducted: (1) a qualitative, non-interventional, cross-sectional study of patients with COVID-19 involving hybrid concept elicitation and cognitive debriefing interviews; (2) a psychometric evaluation of the measurement properties of FLU-PRO Plus, using data from COMET-ICE (COVID-19 Monoclonal antibody Efficacy Trial—Intent to Care Early).

Results

In the qualitative interviews (n = 30), all 34 items of the FLU-PRO Plus were considered relevant to COVID-19, and participants determined the questionnaire was easily understood, well written, and comprehensive. In the psychometric evaluation (n = 845), the internal consistency reliability of FLU-PRO Plus total score was 0.94, ranging from 0.71 to 0.90 for domain scores. Reproducibility (Day 20–21) was 0.83 for total score, with domain scores of 0.67–0.89. Confirmatory factor analysis with the novel smell/taste domain demonstrated an acceptable fit to the data.

Conclusion

The content, reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the FLU-PRO Plus in the COVID-19 population were supported. Our results suggest that FLU-PRO Plus is a content- and psychometrically-valid, fit-for-purpose measure which is easily understood by patients. FLU-PRO Plus is a suitable PRO measure for evaluating symptoms of COVID-19 and treatment benefit directly from the patient perspective.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.Gov: NCT04545060, September 10, 2020; retrospectively registered.
Comparative evaluation of the health utilities index mark 3 and the short form 6D: evidence from an individual participant data meta-analysis of very preterm and very low birthweight adults
Authors: Bolbocean Corneliu , Anderson Peter J. , Bartmann Peter , Cheong Jeanie L. Y. , Doyle Lex W. , Wolke Dieter , Petrou Stavros
Published: January 2023

Background

The most appropriate preference-based health-related quality of life (HRQoL) instruments for trials or research studies that ascertain the consequences of individuals born very preterm and/or low birthweight (VP/VLBW) are not known. Agreement between the HUI3 and SF-6D multi-attribute utility measures have not been previously investigated for VP/VLBW and normal birthweight or term-born controls. This study examined the agreement between the outputs of the HUI3 and SF-6D measures among adults born VP/VLBW and normal birthweight or term born controls.

Methods

We used two prospective cohorts of individuals born VP/VLBW and controls contributing to the ‘Research on European Children and Adults Born Preterm’ (RECAP) consortium which assessed HRQoL using two preference-based measures. The combined dataset of individual participant data (IPD) included 407 adult VP/VLBW survivors and 367 controls, ranging in age from 18 to 26 years. Bland–Altman plots, intra-class correlation coefficients, and generalized linear mixed models in a one-step approach were used to examine agreement between the measures.

Results

There was significant discordance between the HUI3 and SF-6D multi-attribute utility measures in the VP/VLBW sample, controls, and in the combined samples. Agreement between the HUI3 and SF-6D multi-attribute utility measures was weaker in controls compared with VP/VLBW individuals.

Conclusions and relevance

The HUI3 and SF-6D each provide unique information on different aspects of health status across the groups. The HUI3 better captures preterm-related changes to HRQoL in adulthood compared to SF-6D. Studies focused on measuring physical or cognitive aspects of health will likely benefit from using the HUI3 instead of the SF-6D, regardless of gestational age at birth and birthweight status.
Competitive Hydrodeoxygenation and Hydrodenitrogenation Reactions in the Hydrotreatment of Fatty Acid and Amine Mixtures
Authors: Verkama Emma , Auvinen Paavo , Albersberger Sylvia , Tiitta Marja , Karinen Reetta , Puurunen Riikka L.
Published: January 2023

Understanding how hydrotreating oxygen-containing compounds together with nitrogen-containing compounds affects the reactivity and selectivity is relevant for processing renewable feedstocks. In this work, competitive hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) and hydrodenitrogenation (HDN) reactions were studied by co-hydrotreating palmitic acid (C16 acid) and tetradecylamine (C14 amine) over a Pt/ZrO2 catalyst in a batch reactor. HDO proceeded faster than HDN in the studied system, and the deoxygenation reactions were found to have an inhibitory effect on HDN. Co-hydrotreating the C16 acid and the C14 amine expanded the reaction network from the individual HDO and HDN networks and changed the prevailing reaction pathways, initially in favor of oxygen removal. The formation of heavy secondary amides and amines through condensation reactions became increasingly favored as the share of C16 acid in the feed increased. For a given conversion level, the condensation product selectivity was observed to increase as the reaction temperature was decreased, whereas increasing the reaction temperature promoted the formation of the desired paraffins. This work described the ease of HDO compared to HDN, the role of condensation reactions in the co-hydrotreating reaction network, and the inhibitory effect on HDN thereof.
Board’s financial expertise: a bibliometric analysis and future research agenda
Authors: Alcaide-Ruiz María Dolores , Bravo-Urquiza Francisco
Published: January 2023

This paper runs a bibliometric analysis in order to present the characteristics and evolution of the publications of the research on board financial expertise. Our sample is composed of all the documents from the Web of Science for the period 1900–2020. The findings show that financial expertise research activity has grown exponentially, although in Europe it has been scantly developed. The analysis also reveals the most cited authors and papers, including the most frequent topics in this research area, highlighting that current trends are moving toward corporate social responsibility and ethical aspects. Potential research directions are also provided by suggesting specific research themes and conceptual approaches. This analysis has direct implications for academics in positioning their future research. The increasing importance of the assessment of scientific production has also made bibliometric studies have significant implications for universities and policymakers.
Microstrobilinia castrans, a new genus and species of the Sclerotiniaceae parasitizing pollen cones of Picea spp.
Authors: Beenken Ludwig , Stroheker Sophie , Dubach Vivanne , Schlegel Markus , Queloz Valentin , Gross Andrin
Published: January 2023

The fungal pathogens of spruce are well known in Europe and elsewhere. Therefore, it was surprising to discover a new fungal species and genus in Central Europe that attacks the pollen cones of three spruce species. The new ascomycete forms apothecia on stromatized pollen cones of Norway spruce (Picea abies) and Serbian spruce (Picea omorika) in mountain areas and on West Himalayan spruce (Picea smithiana) planted in urban lowland regions of Switzerland, Germany, and Italy. It was also detected in France, based on metabarcode sequences deposited in the GlobalFungi database. Its sudden appearance and the different origins of the host trees in Europe and Asia leave the origin of the fungus unclear. The new fungus might be a neomycete for Europe. A phylogenetic analysis using SSU, LSU, ITS, RPB2, and TEF1 sequences classified the fungus as a member of Sclerotiniaceae (Helotiales, Leotiomycetes). However, it differs morphologically from the other genera of this family in having an ascus without apical apparatus containing four mainly citriform spores with 16 nuclei each. Furthermore, it is the only known cup fungus that parasitizes pollen cones of conifers by stromatizing their tissue and infecting pollen grains. The fungus does not seem to cause major damage to the spruce populations, as only a few pollen cones per tree are affected. All this leads us to describe the newly discovered fungus as the new species and new genus Microstrobilinia castrans, the fungus that castrates pollen cones of spruce.
Uncertainty assessment of remote sensing- and ground-based methods to estimate wildfire emissions: a case study in Calabria region (Italy)
Authors: Castagna Jessica , Senatore Alfonso , Pellis Guido , Vitullo Marina , Bencardino Mariantonia , Mendicino Giuseppe
Published: January 2023

In a general framework characterized by ever-increasing evidence of impacts attributable to climate change, the quantitative estimation of wildfire emissions (e.g., black carbon, carbon monoxide, particulate matter) and the evaluation of its uncertainty are crucial for mitigation and adaptation purposes. Global atmospheric emission models use mainly remote sensing fire datasets, which are affected by significant uncertainties. To assess the errors of remote sensing-based inventories, we compared the temporal and spatial behavior of the last version of the satellite-based Global Fire Emissions Database (GFED4s) with a more accurate ground-based wildfire emissions inventory, for the 2008–2016 period. The study area was Calabria (southern Italy), among the Italian regions with the highest contribution to national wildfire emissions. This study highlights a reliable agreement of time evolution of Burned Areas (R2 = 0.87), but an overestimation of their extent by satellite compared to ground observations (approximately + 18%). Nevertheless, satellite data systematically underestimated Dry Matter and emissions by forest and grassland wildfires (ranging between -66% and -97%). Furthermore, detailed information on land cover allowed assessing the vegetation parameters uncertainties on ground-based emission inventory. The Mass Available Fuel values, which are constantly modified by wildfires, and land use changes, and not frequently updated, showed not to affect the emission estimations. Finally, the relationship between ground-based and remote sensing-based inventories for the analyzed period highlighted that the preliminary satellite emissions related to 2017–2019 require careful validation before any applications.
Banach spaces which always produce octahedral spaces of operators
Authors: Rueda Zoca Abraham
Published: January 2023

We characterise those Banach spaces X which satisfy that L(Y, X) is octahedral for every non-zero Banach space Y. They are those satisfying that, for every finite dimensional subspace Z, $$\ell _\infty $$

ℓ
∞

can be finitely-representable in a part of X kind of $$\ell _1$$

ℓ
1

-orthogonal to Z. We also prove that L(Y, X) is octahedral for every Y if, and only if, $$L(\ell _p^n,X)$$

L
(

ℓ
p
n

,
X
)

is octahedral for every $$n\in {\mathbb {N}}$$

n
∈
N

and $$1<p<\infty $$

1
<
p
<
∞

. Finally, we find examples of Banach spaces satisfying the above conditions like $${\textrm{Lip}}_0(M)$$

Lip
0

(
M
)

spaces with octahedral norms or $$L_1$$

L
1

-preduals with the Daugavet property.
Evaluation of hardness and impact toughness of drawn arc stud weldments on different structural steel grades
Authors: Brätz Oliver , Henkel Knuth-Michael
Published: January 2023

The drawn arc stud welding (DASW) procedure is usually qualified by visual examinations and practical destructive tests of the joint according to international standards. An assessment of the material properties in specific weld zone regions is not requested under consideration of their limited areas or the general joint dimension although the press welding process implies a complex metallurgy. Nonetheless, there is a need of knowledge regarding the heterogeneous material properties in the weld zone, especially when welding on base materials with specified strength and toughness behavior that might be significantly diminished. In this study, the local strength and toughness properties in welded joints of non-alloyed steel studs (Ø20 mm) on plates of different generic structural steel grades are investigated by hardness test and Charpy impact testing. A non-alloyed normalized structural steel (nominal yield strength 355 MPa) and a thermomechanically rolled fine grain structural steel of same strength as well as a quenched and tempered structural steel with high nominal yield strength of 690 MPa were examined. In the weld metal region, relatively similar hardness and low impact energy were determined despite of the different base plate steel grades. The base plate heat-affected zones suffer a strong embrittlement due to the DASW thermocycle.