bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constraints Perceived by Veterinarians of Tamil Nadu State of India in Providing Veterinary Services
Authors: Sangameswaran R. , Sasidhar P. V. K. , Ramesh K.
Published: September 2021

Objective: To determine the constraints faced by veterinarians in rendering services to the livestock farmers.

Study Design: Ex-post facto study design

Methodology: Data were collected from the Veterinarians in State Department of Animal Husbandry (SDAH) of Tamil Nadu, India during the year 2019 through pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire and Garret ranking was used for analyzing the data. A total of 36 constraints were identified through focused group discussion and included in the questionnaire under different heads viz., Organizational, Job content Psychological, Institutional and Information delivery and administrative related constraints.

Results: The results revealed that inadequacy of front line officers, arbitrary fixation of targets, less avenue for promotions, inadequate supporting staff and inadequate research extension linkages were identified as the major constraints that hinders the service delivery.

Conclusion: this study suggested that the effectiveness of service could be further accentuated if the policy makers address the above constraints by strengthening research extension linkage, filling up of vacancies, down top approach in planning pro-poor livestock development policies with due recognition to the veterinarians.
Proximate Analysis and Mineral Composition of Commercially Important Spiny Lobsters from Visakhapatnam Coast, Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Kommuri Pavan Kumar , Mugada Naresh , Kondamudi Ramesh Babu
Published: September 2021

The research work was carried out to assess the dietary qualities of spiny lobsters collected from Visakhapatnam fishing harbour, situated on the northeast coast of Andhra Pradesh. The species selected were Panulirus homarus (Linnaeus, 1758), P. ornatus (Fabricius, 1798), P. versicolor (Latreille, 1804), and P. polyphagus (Herbst, 1793). The species were morphometrically measured, and their tissue was analyzed for the comparative proximate composition (Moisture, Protein, Lipid, and Ash) on a dry weight basis. Protein content was found to be high in all the lobster species. Highest protein content was observed in P. homarus (mg/g), followed by P. ornatus and P. versicolor (mg/g). Moisture percentage was 72.7, 75.7, 76.2, and 74.8% respectively. In addition, four minerals were analysed (Ca, Na, K, and Mg) in the present study. Calcium was observed maximum in all the species, and Magnesium was recorded minimum in all the lobsters.
Effects of Age and Sex on the Healing of Acetic-Acid Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Adult Wistar Rats
Authors: Ige Serah F. , Aremu Waliyat O. , Olateju Bolade S. , Oladipupo Victor A. , Adekola Adedayo T.
Published: September 2021

Aims: Ulcerative colitis is a disease of the bowel that occurs in all ages and affects both males and females. This research study was designed to investigate the effect of age and sex on the healing of colitis in rats.

Methodology: Twenty - eight rats were randomly distributed into four groups of seven animals per group; adult male rats, mid age male rats, adult female rats and mid age female rats. Mid age and adult Wistar rats were 7- 8weeks and 14 weeks old respectively. Colitis was induced through a single intra-colonic instillation of 7% acetic acid (1mL/100g body weight) and allowed to heal for 14 days. Blood samples were obtained for analysis. Colon samples were also obtained for histomorphological study and biochemical assays (Myeloperoxidase activities, Superoxide dismutase, Glutathione, Catalase and Malondialdehyde) levels.

Results: There was no significant difference in Malondialdehyde concentration, catalase, Superoxide dismutase, Myeloperoxidase, Platelet Distribution Width, Platelet Count, Basophil cell numbers, Eosinophil cell numbers, platelet cells, Mean Platelet Volume , Mean Cell Volume and white blood cells across the groups. The Glutathione concentration in mid age male rats was significantly increased when compared with adult male rats. The haemoglobin , Lymphocytes and Mean Cell Haemoglobin levels were increased while neutrophils and monocyte levels were decreased in the younger female rats. The histomorphological study revealed poorly preserved surface epithelia layer of the colon in adult male rats while mid age male and female rats showed moderately preserved surface epithelia layer, adult female rats showed normal surface epithelia layer.

Conclusion: Mid age rats heal faster than adult rats while in terms of sex, female rats tends to heal faster than male rats.
Assessment of Biomarkers in Patients Co-Infected with HIV/HBV Attending the Antiretroviral Clinic in a Tertiary Institution
Authors: Baeka G. B. , Isong G. A. , Piakor B. N.
Published: September 2021

Aim: The level of some biomarkers such as the Lipid profiles and some liver enzymes were checked for in patients who were found to be co infected with HIV/HBV

Study Design: The study was conducted among patients infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus attending the antiretroviral clinic at the Braith Waite memorial hospital, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The samples and relevant data were gotten between the months of January and March 2019, using a structured questionnaire

Methodology: The Samples were collected from patients infected with HIV attending the Braith Waite memorial hospital on antiretroviral medication. A total number of 98 samples were collected and analyzed for the presence of HBV IgM core antibody using the ELISA method. The statistical analysis was done using a Stata version 16 and the student T-test was used to determine the P value. A total of 98 samples were collected, 66(67.3%) were females and 32(32.6%) of them were males. Of the 98 samples, 5 (5.1%) of them were positive to HIV/HBV co infection of which 3(3.1%) were females and 2(2%) were males. The age range for those co infected was between 29 – 34 years old. The lipid profile and liver enzymes for the positive samples were analyzed. The result showed an increase in the level of LDL, HDL and triglyceride. The analysis for the liver enzymes showed an increase in the level of AST and ALP while the ALT and GGT remained within the healthy range.  The increase in the level of most of the biomarkers, showed that the patients co infected with HIV/HBV were at risk of heart and kidney diseases since they are already immunocompromised. From this result, it shows that patients who are HIV positive should undergo HBV test regularly. Those who are positive should have their biomarkers monitored and put under medication early.
Spatial Evaluation of Health Risk due to Inhalation of PM2.5 Pollutants in the Metropolitan Areas of Toluca Valley and Mexico Valley
Authors: Díaz-Godoy Raúl Venancio , López-Monroy José , Moreno-Alcántara Jaime , Castellanos-Moguel Judith , Nuñez-Cardona María Teresa , Sierra-Vargas Martha Patricia , Aztatzi-Aguilar Octavio Gamaliel , Flores-Ortiz Angélica
Published: September 2021

Aims: In the present work, health risk from inhalation of PM2.5 pollutants in both areas was assessed spatially

Place and Duration of Study: The metropolitan areas of the Toluca (MATV) and Mexico Valleys (MAMV), between September and November 2009.

Methodology: A simultaneous sampling campaign was conducted in the Toluca and Mexico Valleys on alternate days from September-22 to November-29, 2009. From the samples collected, their gravimetric concentration was obtained, and S, Cl, K, Ca Ti, V, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pb were determined using the particle-induced X-ray emission technique (PIXE).

Results: The health risk by inhalation of PM2.5 with a higher result for the metropolitan area of the Toluca Valley (2.09 for adults, 6.25 for children from 6-12 years old, and 6.58 for children from 2-6 years old) in contrast with that of the metropolitan area of the Mexico Valley (1.67 for adults, 5.20 for children from 6-12 years old, and 5.28 for children from 2-6 years old).

Conclusion: These results are perhaps due to the higher concentration of Cl and Mn for the MATV. Additionally, the air parcels from sampling site MAMV go to MATV and thus contributes to an increased health risk from inhalation of PM2.5. There are health risks for the inhalation of PM2.5 in the MATV and MAMV study areas. The risk only considers the elemental risk. There are no similar studies for this comparison between MATV and MAMV in the literature.
“ hv-Energy Packet floating in Front of the Wave Beam” Hybrid Structure of Photon and its Self-Interference in the Single Photon Double-Slits Experiment
Authors: Chen Sennian
Published: September 2021

In the single photon double slits experiment, what mechanism makes the interference? Whether it is owing to the external factor or the photon has a special structure it can interfere photon itself to make the interference pattern? Because the photon is a quantum of EM radiation as Einstein proposed, so we start the study from an EM wave beam (an EM radiation). Under the demand of the symmetry and quantization, we found the wave beam is certainly circular polarized and covered by a side membrane. There is a pair of ± charges ±q and the circular tension  distributes double helically along the side membrane. Quantization of charges requires  ( k=2.3,...). Mechanical equilibrium among the helical distributed or, tension and the circular polarized EM field inside construct a steady structure to keep the quantized EM beam integrity, shape and size. Its energy hv concentrates in a cylindrical packet of radius R max and length , named -(energy) packet. With the aid of Einstein theory of spontaneous emission, we proved that the photon is consisted of the  energy packet and accompany with a conical - (EM) wave beam; -packet floats in front of the -wave. It is such hybrid structure that makes photon self interference in the double slits experiment.
Inherently UV Photodegradable Poly(methacrylate) Gels
Authors: Scheiger Johannes M. , Li Shuai , Brehm Marius , Bartschat Andreas , Theato Patrick , Levkin Pavel A.
Published: September 2021

Organogels (hydrophobic polymer gels) are soft materials based on polymeric networks swollen in organic solvents. They are hydrophobic and possess a high content of solvent and low surface adhesion, rendering them interesting in applications such as encapsulants, drug delivery, actuators, slippery surfaces (self‐cleaning, anti‐waxing, anti‐bacterial), or for oil‐water separation. To design functional organogels, strategies to control their shape and surface structure are required. Herein, the inherent UV photodegradability of poly(methacrylate) organogels is reported. No additional photosensitizers are required to efficiently degrade organogels (d ≈ 1 mm) on the minute scale. A low UV absorbance and a high swelling ability of the solvent infusing the organogel are found to be beneficial for fast photodegradation, which is expected to be transferrable to other gel photochemistry. Organogel arrays, films, and structured organogel surfaces are prepared, and their extraction ability and slippery properties are examined. Films of inherently photodegradable organogels on copper circuit boards serve as the first ever positive gel photoresist. Spatially photodegraded organogel films protect or reveal copper surfaces against an etchant (FeCl3 aq.).
3D Interconnected Conductive Graphite Nanoplatelet Welded Carbon Nanotube Networks for Stretchable Conductors
Authors: Zhang Fei , Ren Danhui , Huang Lingqi , Zhang Yinhang , Sun Yuxuan , Liu Dan , Zhang Qi , Feng Wei , Zheng Qingbin
Published: September 2021

Stretchable conductors with stable electrical conductivity under harsh mechanical deformations are essential for developing next generation portable and flexible wearable electronics. To achieve both high stretchability and conductivity with electromechanical stability, highly stretchable conductors based on 3D interconnected conductive graphite nanoplatelet welded carbon nanotube (GNP‐w‐CNT) networks are fabricated by welding the junctions of CNTs using GNPs followed by infiltrating with poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS). It is observed that GNPs can weld the adjacent CNTs to facilitate the formation of continuous conductive pathways and avoid interfacial slippage under repetitive stretching. The enhanced interfacial bonding enables the conductor both high electrical conductivity (>132 S m−1) and high stretchability (>150% strain) while ensuring long‐term stability (1000 stretching‐releasing cycles under 60% tensile strain). To demonstrate the outstanding flexibility and electrical stability, a flexible and stretchable light‐emitting diode circuit with stable performance during stretching, bending, twisting, and pressing conditions is further fabricated. The unique welding mechanism can be easily extended to other material systems to broaden the application of stretchable conductors to a myriad of new applications.
DNA Logic Circuits for Multiple Tumor Cells Identification Using Intracellular MicroRNA Molecular Bispecific Recognition
Authors: Yang Qiqi , Yang Fan , Dai Wenhao , Meng Xiangdan , Wei Wei , Cheng Yaru , Dong Jinhong , Lu Huiting , Dong Haifeng
Published: September 2021

The aberrant expression level of intracellular microRNAs (miRNAs) holds great promise for differentiating cell types at the molecular level. However, cell subtype discrimination based on a single miRNA molecular level is not sufficient and reliable. Herein, multiple identifiable and reporting modules are integrated into a single DNA circuit for multiple cancer cell subtypes identification based on miRNAs bispecific recognition. The DNA three‐dimensional (3D) logic gate nano‐hexahedron framework extends three recognition modules and three reporting modules to form three “AND” logic gates. Each Boolean operator “AND” returns an “ON” signal in the presence of bispecific miRNAs, simultaneously enabling three types of cell subtype identification. It not only enables the discrimination of cancer cells A549 and MCF‐7 from normal cells NHDF but also successfully distinguishes different types of cancer cells. The bispecific intracellular miRNA controllable DNA circuit, with low signal‐to‐noise ratio, easily extends to various cell type discrimination by adjusting the miRNA species, provides huge opportunities for accurately differentiating multiple cell types at the molecular level.
Controlled Growth and Self‐Assembly of Multiscale Organic Semiconductor
Authors: Bai Ling , Wang Ning , Li Yuliang
Published: September 2021

Currently, organic semiconductors (OSs) are widely used as active components in practical devices related to energy storage and conversion, optoelectronics, catalysis, and biological sensors, etc. To satisfy the actual requirements of different types of devices, chemical structure design and self‐assembly process control have been synergistically performed. The morphology and other basic properties of multiscale OS components are governed on a broad scale from nanometers to macroscopic micrometers. Herein, the up‐to‐date design strategies for fabricating multiscale OSs are comprehensively reviewed. Related representative works are introduced, applications in practical devices are discussed, and future research directions are presented. Design strategies combining the advances in organic synthetic chemistry and supramolecular assembly technology perform an integral role in the development of a new generation of multiscale OSs.
Manufacturing of Human Tissues as off‐the‐Shelf Grafts Programmed to Induce Regeneration
Authors: Pigeot Sébastien , Klein Thibaut , Gullotta Fabiana , Dupard Steven J. , Garcia Garcia Alejandro , García‐García Andres , Prithiviraj Sujeethkumar , Lorenzo Pilar , Filippi Miriam , Jaquiery Claude , Kouba Loraine , Asnaghi M. Adelaide , Raina Deepak Bushan , Dasen Boris , Isaksson Hanna , Önnerfjord Patrik , Tägil Magnus , Bondanza Attilio , Martin Ivan , Bourgine Paul E.
Published: September 2021

Design criteria for tissue‐engineered materials in regenerative medicine include robust biological effectiveness, off‐the‐shelf availability, and scalable manufacturing under standardized conditions. For bone repair, existing strategies rely on primary autologous cells, associated with unpredictable performance, limited availability and complex logistic. Here, a conceptual shift based on the manufacturing of devitalized human hypertrophic cartilage (HyC), as cell‐free material inducing bone formation by recapitulating the developmental process of endochondral ossification, is reported. The strategy relies on a customized human mesenchymal line expressing bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2), critically required for robust chondrogenesis and concomitant extracellular matrix (ECM) enrichment. Following apoptosis‐driven devitalization, lyophilization, and storage, the resulting off‐the‐shelf cartilage tissue exhibits unprecedented osteoinductive properties, unmatched by synthetic delivery of BMP‐2 or by living engineered grafts. Scalability and pre‐clinical efficacy are demonstrated by bioreactor‐based production and subsequent orthotopic assessment. The findings exemplify the broader paradigm of programming human cell lines as biological factory units to engineer customized ECMs, designed to activate specific regenerative processes.
Metal–Organic Framework Photonic Balls: Single Object Analysis for Local Thermal Probing
Authors: Avci Civan , De Marco Maria Letizia , Byun Caroline , Perrin Jonathan , Scheel Mario , Boissière Cédric , Faustini Marco
Published: September 2021

Due to their high porosity and chemical versatility, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) exhibit physical properties appealing for photonic‐based applications. While several MOF photonic structures have been reported, examples of applications thereof are mainly limited to chemical sensing. Herein, the range of application of photonic MOFs is extended to local thermal and photothermal sensing by integrating them into a new architecture: MOF photonic balls. Micrometric‐sized photonic balls are made of monodispersed MOFs colloids that are self‐assembled via spray‐drying, a low‐cost, green, and high‐throughput method. The versatility of the process allows tuning the morphology and the composition of photonic balls made of several MOFs and composites with tailored optical properties. X‐ray nanotomography and environmental hyperspectral microscopy enable analysis of single objects and their evolution in controlled atmosphere and temperature. Notably, in presence of vapors, the MOF photonic balls act as local, label‐free temperature probes. Importantly, compared to other thermal probes, the temperature detection range of these materials can be adjusted “on‐demand.” As proof of concept, the photonic balls are used to determine local temperature profiles around a concentrated laser beam. More broadly, this work is expected to stimulate new research on the physical properties of photonic MOFs providing new possibilities for device fabrication.
Linked Nickel Oxide/Perovskite Interface Passivation for High‐Performance Textured Monolithic Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Zhumagali Shynggys , Isikgor Furkan H. , Maity Partha , Yin Jun , Ugur Esma , De Bastiani Michele , Subbiah Anand S. , Mirabelli Alessandro James , Azmi Randi , Harrison George T. , Troughton Joel , Aydin Erkan , Liu Jiang , Allen Thomas , Rehman Atteq ur , Baran Derya , Mohammed Omar F. , De Wolf Stefaan
Published: September 2021

Sputtered nickel oxide (NiOx) is an attractive hole‐transport layer for efficient, stable, and large‐area p‐i‐n metal‐halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, surface traps and undesirable chemical reactions at the NiOx/perovskite interface are limiting the performance of NiOx‐based PSCs. To address these issues simultaneously, an efficient NiOx/perovskite interface passivation strategy by using an organometallic dye molecule (N719) is reported. This molecule concurrently passivates NiOx and perovskite surface traps, and facilitates charge transport. Consequently, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of single‐junction p‐i‐n PSCs increases from 17.3% to 20.4% (the highest reported value for sputtered‐NiOx based PSCs). Notably, the N719 molecule self‐anchors and conformally covers NiOx films deposited on complex surfaces. This enables highly efficient textured monolithic p‐i‐n perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells, reaching PCEs up to 26.2% (23.5% without dye passivation) with a high processing yield. The N719 layer also forms a barrier that prevents undesirable chemical reactions at the NiOx/perovskite interface, significantly improving device stability. These findings provide critical insights for improved passivation of the NiOx/perovskite interface, and the fabrication of highly efficient, robust, and large‐area perovskite‐based optoelectronic devices.
Detectability‐based controller design screening for processes under multiplicative cyberattacks
Authors: Narasimhan Shilpa , El‐Farra Nael H. , Ellis Matthew J.
Published: September 2021

Cyberattacks on process control systems (PCSs) may target communication links, compromising the data integrity. Cyberattack detection and mitigation are essential capabilities, as the consequences of a successful cyberattack on a PCS may be severe. While detectability may be viewed as a systems‐theoretic property, cyberattack detection in practice depends on the attack detection scheme used and the PCS design. This paper presents an approach for control parameter screening based on the detectability of sensor‐controller communication link multiplicative attacks. First, a residual set‐based condition for the undetectability of an attack is developed. A controller screening methodology aimed at identifying controller parameter choices that mask the detectability of an attack is presented. The proposed methodology can be used to incorporate the detectability of an attack as a criterion into conventional control design criteria (e.g., closed‐loop stability and economic considerations). Finally, the application of the controller screening methodology is demonstrated using two illustrative examples.
In‐Cell Generation of Anticancer Phenanthridine Through Bioorthogonal Cyclization in Antitumor Prodrug Development
Authors: Maslah Hichem , Skarbek Charles , Gourson Catherine , Plamont Marie‐Aude , Pethe Stéphanie , Jullien Ludovic , Le Saux Thomas , Labruère Raphaël
Published: September 2021

Pharmacological inactivation of antitumor drugs toward healthy cells is a critical factor in prodrug development. Typically, pharmaceutical chemists graft temporary moieties to existing antitumor drugs to reduce their pharmacological activity. Here, we report a platform able to generate the cytotoxic agent by intramolecular cyclization. Using phenanthridines as cytotoxic model compounds, we designed ring‐opened biaryl precursors that generated the phenanthridines through bioorthogonal irreversible imination. This reaction was triggered by reactive oxygen species, commonly overproduced in cancer cells, able to convert a vinyl boronate ester function into a ketone that subsequently reacted with a pendant aniline. An inactive precursor was shown to engender a cytotoxic phenanthridine against KB cancer cells. Moreover, the kinetic of cyclization of this prodrug was extremely rapid inside living cells of KB cancer spheroids so as to circumvent drug action.
Selymatra: A web application for protein‐profiling analysis of mass spectra
Authors: Nardone Davide , Ciaramella Angelo , Cerreta Mariangela , Pulcrano Salvatore , Bellenchi Gian C. , Leone Linda , Manco Giuseppe , Febbraio Ferdinando
Published: September 2021

Surface enhanced laser desorption/ionization‐time of flight (SELDI‐TOF) mass spectrometry is a variant of the matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐time of flight (MALDI‐TOF) mass spectrometry. It is used in many cases especially for the analysis of protein profiling and for preliminary screening of biomarkers in complex samples. Unfortunately, these analyses are time consuming and protein identification is generally strictly limited. SELDI‐TOF analysis of mass spectra (SELYMATRA) is a web application (WA) developed to reduce these limitations by (i) automating the identification processes and (ii) introducing the possibility to predict proteins in complex mixtures from cells and tissues. The WA architectural pattern is the model‐view‐controller, commonly used in software development. The WA compares the mass value between two mass spectra (sample vs. control) to extract differences, and, according to the set parameters, it queries a local database to predict most likely proteins based on their masses and different expression amplification. The WA was validated in a cellular model overexpressing a tagged NURR1 receptor, being able to recognize the tagged protein in the profiling of transformed cells. A help page, including a description of parameters for WA use, is available on the website.
Schnelles Bauen durch Standardisierung und Vorfertigung – Straßenbrücken in Modulbauweise
Authors: Hierl Martin , Tresch Jürgen
Published: September 2021

Bauen im Bestand wird künftig die Regelbauweise im deutschen Straßennetz darstellen. Umso wichtiger ist es, in diesem Zusammenhang verkehrliche Einschränkungen möglichst zu verringern und die damit einhergehenden erhöhten Unfallgefährdungen, ökonomischen Folgen (Staukosten) und ökologischen Auswirkungen (Umweltverschmutzung) auf ein Minimum zu reduzieren. Kurze Bauzeiten bei gleichzeitig hohem Qualitätsstandard sind demnach in vielerlei Hinsicht wünschenswert. Ein wichtiger Baustein hierbei ist das Bauen mit standardisierten und vorgefertigten Bauteilen. Aufgrund der Vielzahl an Vorschriften, Richtzeichnungen und bereits vorhandenen Regelungen im Bereich des Brückenbaus ist dieses Fachgebiet des Bauwesens prinzipiell prädestiniert für standardisierte Bauweisen. Dennoch ist die Fertigteilbauweise in den letzten Jahrzehnten im Brückenbau im Gegensatz zu einigen Nachbarländern eher seltener realisiert worden. Die Marktsituation der vergangenen Jahrzehnte erlaubte es den Bauherren, die Bauwerke unter Ausschöpfung eines scheinbar schier unbegrenzten Pools an Ingenieuren und Fachkräften als Unikat zu planen und in Ortbeton herzustellen. Man berief sich darauf, dass Brücken in Fertigteilbauweise per se gestalterisch weniger gelingen. Dies sollte aber bei der Vielzahl an Brücken, bei denen dieser Aspekt eine untergeordnete Rolle spielt, nicht entscheidend sein. Letztlich gibt es viele ökologische und volkswirtschaftliche Gründe, sich der modularen Bauweise, wie sie im Folgenden vorgestellt wird, zu öffnen, insbesondere wenn auch der Brückenbau seinen Anteil an einem nachhaltigen Wandel der Baubranche leisten soll.
Schnelles Bauen – Motivation, Historie und Konzepte
Authors: Forman Patrick , Glock Christian , Mark Peter
Published: September 2021

Viele Bauwerke wie Brücken, Hochbauten oder Industrieanlagen sind aktuell durch neue zu ersetzen. Ihre (planmäßige) Nutzungszeit ist vorüber. Zudem besteht großer Bedarf an Wohnraum in den wachsenden Städten. Beide Bauarten, Ersatz wie Neubau, finden in engen Verkehrsnetzen statt, die durch Güter‐, Waren‐ und Personenverkehr bereits weitgehend ausgelastet sind. Schnelles Bauen – gemeint ist hier die Ausführung vor Ort – motiviert sich daraus in den Zielen, die Verkehrsnetze möglichst gering zusätzlich zu belasten und kurzfristig neue Bauwerke für die jeweilige Nutzung zur Verfügung zu stellen. Die Qualität bleibt erhalten. Der Beitrag stellt als Übersichtsartikel zum Sonderheft den Rahmen des Schnellbaus vor. Dies sind seine Motivation in Deutschland und Europa, seine historische Einordnung in die Bautätigkeit der letzten Jahrzehnte bzw. Jahrhunderte inkl. aktueller Forschungsansätze und Grundsätze, die für schnelle Bauausführungen wichtig sind.
Anatomy education for medical students in a virtual reality workspace: A pilot study
Authors: Nakai Kohga , Terada Satoshi , Takahara Ayaka , Hage Dany , Tubbs R. Shane , Iwanaga Joe
Published: September 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic has posed a challenge for many medical schools, as they have had to adjust their curricula into an online format. This was particularly problematic for anatomy courses as in person dissections have historically been preferred for providing students with a three‐dimensional learning environment. In this study, we aim to share our experience with conducting anatomy lectures for medical student using a virtual reality (VR) workspace. Additionally, we discuss the advantages of using VR and expand on how it may be used to improve students' understanding of anatomy in comparison to various other online lecture formats. To do this, we utilized a post‐lecture survey to gain feedback from the medical students that participated in a VR anatomy workspace. We found that many of our participants expressed that having access to their course material from anywhere and anytime via a virtual space, and being able to manipulate anatomical structures by moving and modifying them provided the student with a strong advantage. Although there are still limitations, we hope that our experience will assist other anatomy teachers with improving their lecture methods, especially during the pandemic.
Restriction of congenital portosystemic shunt using the modified microvascular plug
Authors: Rao Sruti , Karuppasamy Karunakaravel , Radhakrishnan Kadakkal , Fagan Thomas E.
Published: September 2021

Congenital portosystemic shunts (CPSS) may produce a variety of severe, clinically detrimental presentations. When indicated, closure is recommended; however, if the intrahepatic portal venous system (IPVS) is underdeveloped complete closure may not be possible and may result in severe acute portal hypertension. Staged restriction of CPSS flow by both surgical and complex transcatheter interventions has been successful in augmenting development of the IPVS such that complete occlusion of the CPSS can be performed. We report use of a modified microvascular plug to restrict CPSS flow with subsequent IPVS development and safe complete occlusion of CPSS.
Effects of cooking over the stability of fatty acids as bioactive compounds in enriched pasta with a fish by‐product
Authors: Ainsa Andrea , Iranzo Lorena , Honrado Adrián , Marquina Pedro , Roncalés Pedro , Beltrán José. A. , Calanche Juan
Published: September 2021

Background and objectives

Fusilli pasta enriched with sea bass concentrate (Dicentrarchus labrax) was developed with the aim of increasing its content in proteins and especially in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) like Ω‐3. Pasta made from two types of cereals (wheat and spelt) and fish by‐product with or without a natural antioxidant were cooking prior to consumption, and nutritional and physicochemical characteristics were evaluated.

Findings

Enriched developed pasta showed high levels of protein, fat, and fiber, and the fatty acid profiles confirmed a substantial enrichment in bioactive compounds (Ω‐3 fatty acids). The cooking of pasta before consumption was able to reduce bacterial loads guaranteeing food safety and improving nutritional availability. Furthermore, an increase in the MUFA and PUFA content was revealed, which could represent an advantage to offer a better source of functional ingredients (EPA & DHA).

Conclusions

The combination of heat from cooking with formulations containing antioxidants seems to offer a remarkable synergistic effect to preserve unsaturated fatty acids with desirable nutritional properties.

Significance and novelty

Pasta enriched with bioactive compounds from fish by‐product after cooking treatment before consumption appears to be an effectiveness option to improve healthy human nutrition.
Micellar Catalysis: Visible‐Light Mediated Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine C—H Amination with N‐Aminopyridinium Salt Accelerated by Surfactant in Water
Authors: Yang Zhonglie , Cao Kun , Peng Xiaoyan , Lin Li , Fan Danchen , Li Jun‐Long , Wang Jingxia , Zhang Xiaobin , Jiang Hezhong , Li Jiahong
Published: September 2021

Main observation and conclusion

A light‐promoted metal‐free protocol for the amination of imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines with N‐aminopyridinium salt by the assistance of surfactants in water was reported, charactering mild and environmentally benign conditions, as well as great functional group tolerance. Micelles with negatively charged polar surface and hydrophobic core formed from sodium dodecyl sulfate serve as an ideal medium for visible‐light mediated radical reaction of cationic pyridine salt and imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine in aqueous phase. The electrostatic interaction between positively charged N‐aminopyridinium and negatively charged surface of micelles is of great significance in this method.
Monitoring Aqueous Phase Reactions by Operando ATR‐IR Spectroscopy at High Temperature and Pressure: A Biomass Conversion Showcase
Authors: Khalili Khaled N. M. , de Peinder Peter , Bruijnincx Pieter C. A. , Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: September 2021

Spectroscopic insight into aqueous phase catalytic reactions under realistic conditions aids detailed understanding and fosters further improvements. However, this is also very challenging, particularly in the liquid phase, given the typically elevated temperatures and pressures employed. Here, we report an operando Attenuated Total Reflectance‐Infrared (ATR‐IR) spectroscopic method to monitor the Aqueous Phase Reforming (APR) of Kraft lignin at 225 °C and 30 bar over a Pt/Al2O3 catalyst. This is a showcase reaction, while the presented method developed is more generic. In addition to the high temperature and pressures conditions, spectral interference from bulk water is a major challenge. Other challenges include self‐absorption of IR light, molecular interactions, high substrate loadings and the noise resulting from water vapor and CO2. We present a protocol utilizing the temperature‐dependent single‐beam method to obtain high‐quality ATR‐IR spectra virtually free from temperature, background and matrix effects. The protocol allowed for effective correction for the aqueous solvent as a function of reaction temperature. A comparison with conventional spectral acquisition and correction shows the advantages of this approach.
Endoscopic resection of superficial non‐ampullary duodenal epithelial tumor
Authors: Kato Motohiko , Kanai Takanori , Yahagi Naohisa
Published: September 2021

Although superficial non‐ampullary duodenal epithelial tumor (SNADET) was previously considered a rare disease, in recent years, the opportunities to detect and treat SNADET are increasing. Considering the high morbidity of pancreatoduodenectomy, endoscopic resection can be a treatment option that preserves the organs and contributes maintain patients’ quality of life. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is a standard treatment for relatively small lesions in gastrointestinal tracts, however, it is difficult because submucosal fibrosis frequently occurs due to the previous biopsy. Recently, some modified EMR techniques including underwater EMR (UEMR) and cold polypectomy (CP) have been proposed. In UEMR, the duodenal lumen is filled with water or saline and resected the targe lesion with a snare without injection into the submucosa. It would be a treatment option that could reduce candidates for ESD especially SNADET less than 20 mm. CP was reported as a safe and convenient means for SNADET. It would also be one of the standard treatments for diminutive lesions, though there remain some concerns on its resectability. ESD for SNADET is technically challenging, especially with an extremely high risk of adverse event (AE) with a reported bleeding rate of more than 20% and perforation rate up to about 40%. However, modified treatment techniques including the water pressure method and pocket creation method have been reported to potentially contribute to improving outcomes of ESD. Moreover, accumulated evidence shows closing the mucosal defect significantly reduces delayed adverse events after duodenal endoscopic treatments. Further studies are warranted to elucidate curative criteria, long‐term outcomes, and appropriate surveillance strategy.
Podoplanin is dispensable for mineralized tissue formation and maintenance in the Swiss outbred mouse background
Authors: Toda Nakamura Masako , Zhang Honghao , Guo Dayong , Ueharu Hiroki , Pan Haichun , Scott Greg , Harris Marie , Ray Manas , Feng Jiang Q. , Harris Stephen E. , Bonewald Lynda F. , Mishina Yuji
Published: September 2021

Podoplanin, PDPN, is a mucin‐type transmembrane glycoprotein widely expressed in many tissues, including lung, kidney, lymph nodes, and mineralized tissues. Its function is critical for lymphatic formation, differentiation of type I alveolar epithelial lung cells, and for bone response to biomechanical loading. It has previously been shown that Pdpn null mice die at birth due to respiratory failure emphasizing the importance of Pdpn in alveolar lung development. During the course of generation of Pdpn mutant mice, we found that most Pdpn null mice in the 129S6 and C57BL6/J mixed genetic background die at the perinatal stage, similar to previously published studies with Pdpn null mice, while all Pdpn null mice bred with Swiss outbred mice survived. Surviving mutant mice in the 129S6 and C57BL6/J mixed genetic background showed alterations in the osteocyte lacunocanalicular network, especially reduced osteocyte canaliculi in the tibial cortex with increased tibial trabecular bone. However, adult Pdpn null mice in the Swiss outbred background showed no overt differences in their osteocyte lacunocnalicular network, bone density, and no overt differences when challenged with exercise. Together, these data suggest that genetic variations present in the Swiss outbred mice compensate for the loss of function of PDPN in lung, kidney, and bone.
An integrated population model to project viability of a northern bobwhite population in Ohio
Authors: Rosenblatt Connor J. , Gates Robert J. , Matthews Stephen N. , Peterman William E. , Stricker Nathan J.
Published: September 2021

Increased variation in interannual weather due to climate change can exert a powerful influence on the population dynamics of a species. Understanding the influence of severe weather is important for managing weather‐sensitive species. While best management practices target vital rates that are affected by weather, focusing on a single vital rate may not be sufficient if other vital rates are secondarily limiting. A comprehensive modeling framework to forecast future population dynamics while incorporating weather scenarios and vital rate variation within observed ranges that can be affected by management actions are necessary. A potential approach is to combine an integrated population model (IPM) with a population viability analysis (PVA) to generate novel insights about population dynamics. We used the northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus), a rapidly declining gamebird sensitive to snowfall along the northern extents of the species' range, to demonstrate the utility of a coupled IPM‐PVA framework for projecting the response of a population to weather, management, and changes in vital rates. We created an IPM using two sources of count data spanning seven years, five years of winter survival data, and two years of breeding season demographics for a declining bobwhite population in southwestern Ohio during 2007–2015. Quasi‐extinction probability at the end of the decadal projection during 2019–2029 was 0.384–0.410 for mild, average, and severe winter weather scenarios. Quasi‐extinction probability declined to 0.326 with 20% improvement in nest success and summer survival rates. A concurrent 20% increase in winter survival further reduced quasi‐extinction probability to 0.263, which is a ˜36% reduction in quasi‐extinction probability compared with the baseline scenario with no changes in vital rates. These results suggest that long‐term viability of this population may depend on extensive management of winter habitat to improve survival but will also require management actions to improve fecundity after severe winters. Our modeling approach demonstrated how IPMs can be used to project population responses to future weather conditions and overcome some of the pitfalls of traditional PVA. The coupled framework presented here can serve as a tool for managers to make climate‐informed management decisions.
Plasma amino acid profiling improves predictive accuracy of adverse events in patients with heart failure
Authors: Kouzu Hidemichi , Katano Satoshi , Yano Toshiyuki , Ohori Katsuhiko , Nagaoka Ryohei , Inoue Takuya , Takamura Yuhei , Ishigo Tomoyuki , Watanabe Ayako , Koyama Masayuki , Nagano Nobutaka , Fujito Takefumi , Nishikawa Ryo , Ohwada Wataru , Miura Tetsuji
Published: September 2021

Aims

The clinical outcome of heart failure (HF) is complicated by the presence of multiple comorbidities including malnutrition and cachexia, and prediction of the outcome is still difficult in each patient. Metabolomics including amino acid profiling enables detection of alterations in whole body metabolism. The aim of this study was to determine whether plasma amino acid profiling improves prediction of clinical outcomes in patients with HF.

Methods and results

We retrospectively examined 301 HF patients (70 ± 15 years old; 59% male). Blood samples for measurements of amino acid concentrations were collected in a fasting state after stabilization of HF. Plasma amino acid concentrations were measured using ultraperformance liquid chromatography. Clinical endpoint of this study was adverse event defined as all‐cause death and unscheduled readmission due to worsening HF or lethal arrhythmia. During a mean follow‐up period of 380 ± 214 days, 40 patients (13%) had adverse events. Results of analyses of variable importance in projection score, a measure of a variable's importance in partial least squares–discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) showed that the top five amino acids being associated with adverse events were 3‐methylhistidine (3‐Me‐His), β‐alanine, valine, hydroxyproline, and tryptophan. Multivariate Cox‐proportional hazard analyses indicated that a high 3‐Me‐His concentration and low β‐alanine and valine concentrations were independently associated with adverse events. When HF patients were divided according to the cut‐off values of amino acids calculated from receiver operating characteristic curves, Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed that event‐free survival rates were lower in HF patients with high 3‐Me‐His than in HF patients with low 3‐Me‐His (68% vs. 91%, P < 0.01). In a subgroup with high 3‐Me‐His, HF patients with low β‐alanine and those with low valine had significantly lower event‐free survival rates than did HF patients with high β‐alanine and those with high valine, respectively. On the other hand, Kaplan–Meier curves of event‐free survival rates did not differ between HF patients with and those without low β‐alanine and low valine in subgroups of patients with low 3‐Me‐His. Inclusion of both high 3‐Me‐His and low β‐alanine or low valine into the adjustment model including N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide improved the accuracy of prediction of adverse events after discharge. 3‐Me‐His concentration was associated with muscle mass and nutritional status.

Conclusions

Simple measurement of 3‐Me‐His with either β‐alanine or valine improved the predictive ability for adverse events, indicating the utility of plasma amino acid profiling in risk stratification of hospitalized HF patients.
Clinical presentation and long‐term outcomes of infantile hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a European multicentre study
Authors: Norrish Gabrielle , Kolt Gali , Cervi Elena , Field Ella , Dady Kathleen , Ziółkowska Lidia , Olivotto Iacopo , Favilli Silvia , Passantino Silvia , Limongelli Giuseppe , Caiazza Martina , Rubino Marta , Baban Anwar , Drago Fabrizio , Mcleod Karen , Ilina Maria , McGowan Ruth , Stuart Graham , Bhole Vinay , Uzun Orhan , Wong Amos , Lazarou Laz , Brown Elspeth , Daubeney Piers E.F. , Lota Amrit , Delle Donne Grazia , Linter Katie , Mathur Sujeev , Bharucha Tara , Adwani Satish , Searle Jon , Popoiu Anca , Jones Caroline B. , Reinhardt Zdenka , Kaski Juan Pablo
Published: September 2021

Aims

Children presenting with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in infancy are reported to have a poor prognosis, but this heterogeneous group has not been systematically characterized. This study aimed to describe the aetiology, phenotype, and outcomes of infantile HCM in a well‐characterized multicentre European cohort.

Methods and results

Of 301 children diagnosed with infantile HCM between 1987 and 2019 presenting to 17 European centres [male n = 187 (62.1%)], underlying aetiology was non‐syndromic (n = 138, 45.6%), RASopathy (n = 101, 33.6%), or inborn error of metabolism (IEM) (n = 49, 16.3%). The most common reasons for presentation were symptoms (n = 77, 29.3%), which were more prevalent in those with syndromic disease (n = 62, 61.4%, P < 0.001), and an isolated murmur (n = 75, 28.5%). One hundred and sixty‐one (53.5%) had one or more co‐morbidities. Genetic testing was performed in 163 (54.2%) patients, with a disease‐causing variant identified in 115 (70.6%). Over median follow‐up of 4.1 years, 50 (16.6%) underwent one or more surgical interventions; 15 (5.0%) had an arrhythmic event (6 in the first year of life); and 48 (15.9%) died, with an overall 5 year survival of 85%. Predictors of all‐cause mortality were an underlying diagnosis of IEM [hazard ratio (HR) 4.4, P = 0.070], cardiac symptoms (HR 3.2, P = 0.005), and impaired left ventricular systolic function (HR 3.0, P = 0.028).

Conclusions

This large, multicentre study of infantile HCM describes a complex cohort of patients with a diverse phenotypic spectrum and clinical course. Although overall outcomes were poor, this was largely related to underlying aetiology emphasizing the importance of comprehensive aetiological investigations, including genetic testing, in infantile HCM.
Myocardial ultrastructure can augment genetic testing for sporadic dilated cardiomyopathy with initial heart failure
Authors: Saito Tsunenori , Sato Naoko Saito , Mozawa Kosuke , Adachi Akiko , Sasaki Yoshihiro , Nakamura Kotoka , Oka Eiichiro , Otsuka Toshiaki , Kodani Eitaro , Asai Kuniya , Mizuno Kyoichi , Shimizu Wataru , Gottlieb Roberta A.
Published: September 2021

Aims

The aim of the present study was to consider whether the ultrastructural features of cardiomyocytes in dilated cardiomyopathy can be used to guide genetic testing.

Methods and results

Endomyocardial biopsy and whole‐exome sequencing were performed in 32 consecutive sporadic dilated cardiomyopathy patients [51.0 (40.0–64.0) years, 75% men] in initial phases of decompensated heart failure. The predicted pathogenicity of ultrarare (minor allele frequency ≤0.0005), non‐synonymous variants was determined using the American College of Medical Genetics guidelines. Focusing on 75 cardiomyopathy‐susceptibility and 41 arrhythmia‐susceptibility genes, we identified 404 gene variants, of which 15 were considered pathogenic or likely pathogenic in 14 patients (44% of 32). There were five sarcomeric gene variants (29% of 17 variants) found in five patients (16% of 32), involving a variant of MYBPC3 and four variants of TTN. A patient with an MYBPC3 variant showed disorganized sarcomeres, three patients with TTN variants located in the region encoding the A‐band domain showed sparse sarcomeres, and a patient with a TTN variant in encoding the I‐band domain showed disrupted sarcomeres. The distribution of diffuse myofilament lysis depended on the causal genes; three patients with the same TMEM43 variant had diffuse myofilament lysis near nuclei (P = 0.011), while two patients with different DSP variants had lysis in the peripheral areas of cardiomyocytes (P = 0.033).

Conclusions

Derangement patterns of myofilament and subcellular distribution of myofilament lysis might implicate causal genes. Large‐scale studies are required to confirm whether these ultrastructural findings are related to the causative genes.