bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solar drying process for sewage sludge in a drying bed: A case study in Tunisia
Authors: Masmoudi Azza , Ben Sik Ali Ahlem , Dhaouadi Hatem , Mhiri Hatem
Published: June 2023

The aim of this work is to investigate and model the sewage sludge drying kinetics in a lab‐scale drying bed by varying the sludge layer thickness during winter and summer. During each season, five experiments were carried out with increasing the sludge thickness by 0.5 cm each time. To achieve moisture content on a dry basis of 12%, the sludge drying period varied between 120 and 312 h in winter and between 72 and 168 h in summer. Thus, by increasing the sludge thickness, the drying time increased. The different curves of the moisture content evolution and the drying rates were analyzed. The drying curves show that the warm‐up phase (phase 0) and the constant rate phase (phase 1) are absent during the winter and summer seasons. Regardless of the sludge thickness, only the falling rate period was observed. In addition, the moisture content dropped quickly throughout the first 24 h because of the elimination of interstitial water. The drying characteristic curve has been represented by a 3rd degree polynomial. Mathematical equations were used to describe the experimental curves of drying kinetics. The logarithmic model was the most reliable for simulating the changes of reduced moisture content versus drying time in winter and summer.
Development of a Machine Learning Model to Estimate the Biotic Ligand Model–Based Predicted No-Effect Concentrations for Copper in Freshwater
Authors: Chung Jiwoong , Yoo Geonwoo , Jo Jae-Seong , Choi Jinhee , Lee Jong-Hyeon
Published: June 2023

The copper (Cu) biotic ligand model (BLM) has been used for ecological risk assessment by taking into account the bioavailability of Cu in freshwater. The Cu BLM requires data for many water chemistry variables, such as pH, major cations, and dissolved organic carbon, which can be difficult to obtain from water quality monitoring programs. To develop an optimized predicted no-effect concentration (PNEC) estimation model based on an available monitoring dataset, we proposed an initial model that considers all BLM variables, a second model that requires variables excluding alkalinity, and a third model using electrical conductivity as a surrogate for the major cations and alkalinity. Furthermore, deep neural network (DNN) models have been used to predict the nonlinear relationships between the PNEC (outcome variable) and the required input variables (explanatory variables). The predictive capacity of DNN models was compared with the results of other existing PNEC estimation tools using a look-up table and multiple linear and multivariate polynomial regression methods. Three DNN models, using different input variables, provided better predictions of the Cu PNECs compared with the existing tools for the following four test datasets: Korean, United States, Swedish, and Belgian freshwaters. Consequently, it is expected that Cu BLM–based risk assessment can be applied to various monitoring datasets, and that the most applicable model among the three different types of DNN models could be selected according to data availability for a given monitoring database. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:2271–2283. © 2023 SETAC
Software defined network‐based multipath state‐aware routing with traffic prediction in satellite network
Authors: Luo Yonghua , Ning Qian , Chen Bingcai , Zhou Xinzhi , Huang Linyu
Published: June 2023

Uneven traffic demand in satellite networks can lead to link congestion and influence network communication quality. To tackle this problem, we propose a state‐aware routing algorithm based on traffic prediction to disperse network traffic. Reducing the onboard processing requirements, the routing algorithm in this paper introduces a software‐defined network to decouple the control plane and data plane of the satellite network. Also, to better sense the trend of network state, the routing algorithm devises a Spatial‐Temporal Attention Fusion Graph Neural Network (STAFGNN) to predict the future network state by capturing the spatial‐temporal correlation of satellite network traffic. In the control plane, the routing algorithm senses the network state by predicting the future satellite traffic and aggregates the real‐time states of neighboring satellites to identify the load level of the zone. The data plane forwards data based on the control information. Based on the routing algorithm in this paper, multipath routing is designed to reduce the probability of link congestion by dispersing each end‐to‐end traffic. The simulation results demonstrate that the routing algorithm in this paper reduces the number of congestion links and balances the load distribution. The proposed algorithm provides an idea to introduce deep learning to solve the load balancing problem in satellite networks.
In vitro development of gametophytes and sporophytes of critically endangered fern Christella kendujharensis S.K. Behera & S.K. Barik (Thelypteridaceae)
Authors: Mishra Niranjan , Behera Sandip Kumar , Barik Saroj Kanta
Published: June 2023

Christella kendujharensis S.K. Behera & S.K. Barik (family: Thelypteridaceae) is a critically endangered fern endemic to India. We developed its mass propagation protocol through in vitro spore culture in a liquid suspended medium for germination of gametophytes that produced sporophytes subsequently. The spores were monolete, reniform (mean length 36.49 ± 3.6 × breadth 25.67 ± 4.2 μm) to spheroidal with fimbriate and broad‐winged perispore. The maximum germination was in the Parker's and Thompson's (P&TV) medium with 0.1 mg L−1 thiamin, 0.1 mg L−1 riboflavin, 0.1 mg L−1 biotin, 0.1 mg L−1 pyridoxin, 0.5 mg L−1 nicotinic acid, 100 mg L−1 myoinositol, 0.01 mg L−1 folic acid, and 3 mg L−1 glycine. Spore germination was Vittaria type and gametophyte development was Aspidium type. The cordate gametophyte developed archegonia on the 38th day and antheridia on the 42nd day of spore sowing. Both isolate and composite cultures developed sporophytes indicating the presence of intra‐gametophytic selfing. Based on the maximum number of regenerated gametophytes, two combinations, that is, (i) 2 mg L−1 kinetin, and 0.01 mg L−1 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, and (ii) 0.1 mg L−1 naphthaleneacetic acid and 2 mg L−1 kinetin in P&TV media were recommended for mass propagation of C. kendujharensis.
Combined antifungal effects of the vapor phases of Zataria multiflora and Cinnamomum zeylanicum essential oils against Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium citrinum in vitro and cheese
Authors: Imaz Loqman , Aliakbarlu Javad , Lin Lin
Published: June 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the antifungal effects of Zataria multiflora (ZEO) and Cinnamomum zeylanicum (CEO) essential oils in the vapor phase against Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium citrinum in vitro and cheese. The antifungal activities of the vapors of ZEO and CEO were assessed by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index, and inhibition zone diameters. Thymol (51.10%) and cinnamaldehyde (77.82%) were the main constituents of ZEO and CEO, respectively. The MIC values of the vapors of ZEO and CEO against A. flavus were 25 and 12.5 μL/L and against P. citrinum were 800 and 400 μL/L, respectively. The in vitro results showed that the combination of the vapor phases of ZEO and CEO could synergistically inhibit the growth of A. flavus (FIC index = 0.75). In the cheese, the growth of P. citrinum was entirely inhibited by the combination of ZEO and CEO vapors, even at very low concentrations (1/16 MIC). In conclusion, the vapor phases of ZEO and CEO showed the potential to be applied as effective natural antifungals and alternatives to synthetic preservatives in cheese.
Detection of laryngeal carcinoma during endoscopy using artificial intelligence
Authors: Wellenstein David J. , Woodburn Jonathan , Marres Henri A. M. , van den Broek Guido B.
Published: June 2023

Background

The objective of this study was to assess the performance and application of a self‐developed deep learning (DL) algorithm for the real‐time localization and classification of both vocal cord carcinoma and benign vocal cord lesions.

Methods

The algorithm was trained and validated upon a dataset of videos and photos collected from our own department, as well as an open‐access dataset named “Laryngoscope8”.

Results

The algorithm correctly localizes and classifies vocal cord carcinoma on still images with a sensitivity between 71% and 78% and benign vocal cord lesions with a sensitivity between 70% and 82%. Furthermore, the best algorithm had an average frame per second rate of 63, thus making it suitable to use in an outpatient clinic setting for real‐time detection of laryngeal pathology.

Conclusion

We have demonstrated that our developed DL algorithm is able to localize and classify benign and malignant laryngeal pathology during endoscopy.
The role and mechanism of circ‐BNC2 on the malignant progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Xia Yingjie , Hei Naiheng , Peng Shixiong , Cui Zifeng
Published: June 2023

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a key part in the progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, the role of circ‐BNC2 (circRNA ID hsa_circ_0086414) in OSCC progression is still unclear.

Methods

Plasmid transfection was used to induce overexpression of circ‐BNC2. RNA expression of circ‐BNC2, microRNA‐142‐3p (miR‐142‐3p) and GNAS complex locus (GNAS) was detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Protein expression was assessed by western blot assay or immunohistochemistry assay. Cell proliferation was investigated by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, colony formation assay and flow cytometry analysis. Cell migratory and invasive abilities and cell apoptosis were assessed by transwell assay and flow cytometry analysis, respectively. Oxidative stress was evaluated by superoxide dismutase activity detection assay, lipid peroxidation malondialdehyde assay and cellular reactive oxygen species assay. The binding relationship between miR‐142‐3p and circ‐BNC2 or GNAS was proved by dual‐luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. The impacts of circ‐BNC2 overexpression on tumor growth in vivo were unveiled by a xenograft mouse model assay.

Results

Circ‐BNC2 expression was downregulated in OSCC tissues and cells when compared with adjacent healthy tissues and normal human oral keratinocytes. Circ‐BNC2 overexpression repressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of OSCC cells but induced cell apoptosis and oxidative stress. Additionally, circ‐BNC2 overexpression inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, circ‐BNC2 bound to miR‐142‐3p, and miR‐142‐3p targeted GNAS. MiR‐142‐3p mimic attenuated circ‐BNC2 overexpression‐mediated effects on the proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis and oxidative stress of OSCC cells. The regulation of miR‐142‐3p in OSCC cell tumor properties involved GNAS. Further, circ‐BNC2 introduction promoted GNAS expression by inhibiting miR‐142‐3p.

Conclusion

Circ‐BNC2 suppressed OSCC malignant progression by upregulating GNAS expression in a miR‐142‐3p‐dependent manner, which suggested that circ‐BNC2 might be a novel target for OSCC therapy.
A Century Ago the Stern–Gerlach Experiment Ruled Unequivocally in Favor of Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Friedrich Bretislav
Published: June 2023

In 1921, Otto Stern conceived the idea for an experiment that would decide between a classical and a quantum description of atomic behavior, as epitomized by the Bohr–Sommerfeld–Debye model of the atom. This model entailed not only the quantization of the magnitude of the orbital electronic angular momentum but also of the projection of the angular momentum on an external magnetic field – the so‐called space quantization. Stern recognized that space quantization would have observable consequences: namely, that the magnetic dipole moment due to the orbital angular momentum would be space quantized as well, taking two opposite values for atoms whose only unpaired electron has just one quantum of orbital angular momentum. When acted upon by a suitable inhomogeneous magnetic field, a beam of such atoms would be split into two beams consisting of deflected atoms with opposite projections of the orbital angular momentum on the magnetic field. In contradistinction, if atoms behaved classically, the atomic beam would only broaden along the field gradient and have maximum intensity at zero deflection, i. e., where there would be a minimum or no intensity for a beam split due to space quantization. Stern anticipated that, although simple in principle, the experiment would be difficult to carry out – and invited Walther Gerlach to team up with him. Gerlach's realism and experimental skills together with his sometimes stubborn determination to make things work proved invaluable for the success of the Stern–Gerlach experiment (SGE). After a long struggle, Gerlach finally saw, on 8 February 1922, the splitting of a beam of silver atoms in a magnetic field. The absence of the concept of electron spin confused and confounded the interpretation of the SGE, as the silver atoms were, in fact, in a 2S state, with zero orbital and
spin angular momentum. However, a key quantum feature whose existence the SGE was designed to test – namely space quantization of electronic angular momentum – was robust enough to transpire independent of whether the electronic angular momentum was orbital or due to spin. The SGE entails other key aspects of quantum mechanics such as quantum measurement, state preparation, coherence, and entanglement. Confronted with the outcome of the SGE, Stern noted: “I still have objections to the idea of beauty of quantum mechanics. But she is correct.”
Beneficial impact of lithium bis(oxalato)borate as electrolyte additive for high‐voltage nickel‐rich lithium‐battery cathodes
Authors: Wu Fanglin , Mullaliu Angelo , Diemant Thomas , Stepien Dominik , Parac‐Vogt Tatjana N. , Kim Jae‐Kwang , Bresser Dominic , Kim Guk‐Tae , Passerini Stefano
Published: June 2023

High‐voltage nickel‐rich layered cathodes possess the requisite, such as excellent discharge capacity and high energy density, to realize lithium batteries with higher energy density. However, such materials suffer from structural and interfacial instability at high voltages (>4.3 V). To reinforce the stability of these cathode materials at elevated voltages, lithium borate salts are investigated as electrolyte additives to generate a superior cathode‐electrolyte interphase. Specifically, the use of lithium bis(oxalato)borate (LiBOB) leads to an enhanced cycling stability with a capacity retention of 81.7%. Importantly, almost no voltage hysteresis is detected after 200 cycles at 1C. This outstanding electrochemical performance is attributed to an enhanced structural and interfacial stability, which is attained by suppressing the generation of micro‐cracks and the superficial structural degradation upon cycling. The improved stability stems from the formation of a fortified borate‐containing interphase which protects the highly reactive cathode from parasitic reactions with the electrolyte. Finally, the decomposition process of LiBOB and the possible adsorption routes to the cathode surface are deduced and elucidated.

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Model‐Based Systems Engineering as an Enabler of Agility
Authors: Plazanet Sophie , Navas Juan
Published: June 2023

Model‐based systems engineering (MBSE) with agility can help systems engineering programs which deal with both increasing complexity and frequent changes in environment and usages, shorter time‐to‐market, uncertainty of the needs, and more sophisticated industrial schemes. Agile approaches originated in software engineering can be extended and tailored to a certain extent to complex systems engineering and particularly to MBSE. Main benefits of agility are provision of a minimum viable product as early as possible in the schedule, early capture of changes of needs, enabling to deliver a system answering to the real needs, and securing of the value proposal. It includes also potential reduction in rework of the final system through regular customer feedback throughout development (left shift for the defect correction with early exposure), and efficiency of the use of resources. Concerning MBSE, the use of models as a single source of truth for completeness and consistency is useful to share and secure the design by improving communication within engineering teams and the building and support of the development strategy, and to help to automate some tasks such as model exchange and synchronization. In addition to the benefits of each approach, combining them may help to:

▪ Organize and synchronize the development and validation effort of one or multiple engineering teams.

▪ Faster impact analysis including trade‐off studies/options and hence a faster reaction to evolutions in expectations and constraints, that is, the agility of systems.

▪ Show regularly “end to end” value to the customer and other stakeholders.
FuSE Agility as a Foundation for Sound MBSE Lifecycle Management
Authors: Papke Barry , Hause Matthew , Hetherington David
Published: June 2023

Over the past several years, numerous industries have increased their adoption of the systems modeling language (SysML®) and model‐based systems engineering (MBSE) as a core practice within their engineering lifecycles. However, the introduction of SysML and MBSE methodologies has not yet yielded many of the originally envisioned benefits. System models are becoming larger and more complex and many large MBSE projects continue to experience problems with model integration, repository performance, and model lifecycle management. The root cause is the failure to recognize the MBSE digital environment as a complex engineering information processing system that requires the same rigor and development processes as the system‐of‐interest (SoI) it is designing. This article describes how three future of systems engineering (FuSE) agility foundation concepts (system of innovation, effective stakeholder engagement, and continuous integration) directly address some of the problems seen in adoption, deployment, and sustainment of the MBSE digital environment as an SoI.
Agile Programs Need Agile Reviews
Authors: Rosser Larri
Published: June 2023

Current technical oversight approaches used for government programs (for example, stage‐gate reviews) are not agile — their expectations are not aligned with agile development cadences, and they are not adequately responsive to continuous unpredictable change. This article explores ways to provide insight and responsive forward looking actionable guidance for agile projects in the context of government and defense programs. It proposes a general oversight approach that produces minimal drag and disruption and keeps pace with agile product development.
Expansion of around the clock critical care and emergency medicine clinical pharmacy services at a large urban academic medical center
Authors: Kruer Rachel M. , Czosnowski Quinn , Miller Emily M. , Anderson Eve , Peters Haley , Basting Alyson T. , Hauser Christian , Negaard Briana , Stoldt Joseph , Vo Dalena , Wetmore Lori , Tai Anis , Bott Julie , Trujillo Tate
Published: June 2023

The impact of a pharmacist as a dedicated member of multidisciplinary intensive care unit (ICU) and emergency department (ED) teams has repeatedly been described in the literature for over 20 years. A 2020 position paper published by the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the American College of Clinical Pharmacy recommended the optimal practice model include critical care pharmacists providing direct patient care 24 h a day, 7 days a week. The objective of this paper is to describe the expansion and evolution of clinical pharmacy services provided in the ICU and ED at a large academic health center, beginning in 2015 and accelerated in the face of a global pandemic. This was made possible through a combination of creating new positions and reallocating existing positions to substantially increase ICU and ED clinical pharmacy coverage. Over a 7 year period, the emergency medicine and critical care clinical pharmacy team expanded from six full time equivalent (FTE) employees in 2015 to 16 FTEs in early 2022. This allowed for reduced pharmacist to patient ratios, the expansion of clinical pharmacy services from primarily weekday hours to a 24 h per day coverage model, 7 days a week, and to better support clinical pharmacy specialists providing these services. Rapid expansion of around the clock clinical pharmacy services was only possible through collaboration between clinical and operations pharmacy managers and feedback from members of the multidisciplinary team.
RETRACTED: Diosmetin inhibits the growth and invasion of gastric cancer by interfering with M2 phenotype macrophage polarization
Authors: Zhang Faqiang , Luo Huan
Published: June 2023

Overturning M2 phenotype macrophage polarization is a promising therapeutic strategy for gastric cancer (GC). Diosmetin (DIO) is a natural flavonoid with antitumor effect. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of DIO on polarization of M2 phenotype macrophages in GC. THP‐1 cells were induced to M2 phenotype macrophages and co‐cultured with AGS cells. The effects of DIO were determined by flow cytometry, qRT‐PCR, CCK‐8, Transwell, and western blot. To explore the mechanisms, THP‐1 cells were transfected with adenoviral vectors containing tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated factor 2 (TRAF2) or si‐TRAF2. DIO (0, 5, 10, and 20 μM) restrained the M2 phenotype macrophage polarization. In addition, DIO (20 μM) reversed the increased viability and invasion of AGS cells induced by the co‐culture of M2 macrophages. Mechanistically, TRAF2 knockdown inhibited the effect of M2 phenotype macrophages on AGS cells' growth and invasion. Furthermore, DIO (20 μM) was found to decrease TRAF2/NF‐κB activity in GC cells. However, TRAF2 overexpressed reversed the inhibitory effect of DIO on the co‐culture system. The in vivo study confirmed that DIO treatment (50 mg/kg) could repress the growth of GC. DIO treatment markedly reduced the expressions of Ki‐67 and N‐cadherin, and decreased the protein levels of TRAF2 and p‐NF‐κB/NF‐κB. In conclusion, DIO inhibited the growth and invasion of GC cells by interfering with M2 phenotype macrophage polarization through repression of the TRAF2/NF‐κB signaling pathway.
Mesoporous nanocomposites based on CeO2 and MgO: preparation, structure and photocatalytic activity
Authors: Matsukevich Iryna , Kulinich Natallia , Kulbitskaya Ludmila , Kuznetsova Tatyana , Popkov Vadim , Chebanenko Maria , Moskovskikh Dmitry , Kuskov Kirill , Romanovski Valentin
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Self‐propagating high‐temperature synthesis was used to create mesoporous CeO2 and MgO powders as well as nanocomposites based on them for efficient degradation of organic dyes.

RESULTS

It has been investigated how magnesium oxide and cerium oxide interact to affect the crystal structure, morphology and microstructure of the materials produced. It was assumed that CeO2 forms on the surface of MgO while the material's developed surface is preserved. The values of the specific surface area and average pore diameter of the studied samples depend on the composition and vary in the ranges of 16–41 m2 g−1 and 11.919 nm, respectively.

CONCLUSION

It has been established that the sizes of CeO2 crystallites in the composition of nanocomposites change insignificantly and range from 6.5 to 7.4 nm. The photocatalytic activity of the studied samples is at least two times higher compared to analogs. The samples MgO–CeO2 (30 mol%) and MgO–CeO2 (50 mol%) showed the maximum photodegradation efficiency of acid telon blue and direct bright blue dyes at levels of 98.5% and 92.5%, respectively. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Dance becomes therapeutic in the mid to late 20th century
Authors: Kormos Janka
Published: June 2023

The convergence of dance art and therapeutic culture engendered the development of dance‐movement therapy in the mid to late 20th century internationally. This article traces the sociopolitical, institutional, and aesthetic influences that coalesced in this process by contrasting histories of dance‐movement therapy in Hungary and in the United States. The professionalization dance‐movement therapy, through which it established its own theory, practice, and training institutions, occurred first in the United States in the late 1940s. Modern dancers in the United States began to conceptualize their activity as therapeutic, and the dancer as a (secular) healer, a therapist. The influx of therapeutic concepts into the field of dance is viewed as an example of therapeutic discourse permeating various areas of life in the 20th century. The Hungarian case provides a contrasting history of therapeutic culture, one that deviates from the predominant view of the phenomenon as a product of the global spread of Western modernization and the growth of free‐market capitalism. Hungarian movement and dance therapy indeed developed independently from its American predecessor. Its history is intimately tied to the sociopolitical context of state‐socialist period, particularly to the institutionalization of psychotherapy in public hospitals, and to the adaptation of Western group psychotherapies within the informal setting of the “second public sphere.” The legacy of Michael Balint and the British object‐relations school provided its theoretical framework. Its methodology was rooted in postmodern dance. The methodological differences between American dance‐movement therapy and the Hungarian method reflects the shift in dance aesthetics that occurred internationally between 1940 and 1980s.
Acetylshikonin promoting PI3K/Akt pathway and inhibiting SOX4 expression to delay intervertebral disc degeneration and low back pain
Authors: Huang Yuming , Lei Linchuan , Zhao Zhuoyang , Li Zemin , Wang Hua , Chen Shunlun , Zheng Jinjian , Jiang Guowei , Guo Xingyu , Li Jiamin , Wang Jianru , Zheng Zhaomin , Chen Fan
Published: June 2023

This study investigated the molecular mechanism by which acetylshikonin inhibits SOX4 expression via the PI3K/Akt pathway to delay intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) and low back pain (LBP). Bulk RNA‐seq, RT‐qPCR, Western blot analysis, immunohistochemical staining, small interfering RNA (siSOX4), lentivirus (lentiv‐SOX4hi), and imaging techniques were used to assess SOX4 expression and validate its upstream regulatory pathway. Acetylshikonin and siSOX4 were injected into the IVD to measure IVDD. SOX4 expression significantly increased in degenerated IVD tissues. TNF‐α increased SOX4 expression and apoptosis‐related proteins in nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs). siSOX4 reduced TNF‐α‐induced NPCs apoptosis, while Lentiv‐SOX4hi increased it. The PI3K/Akt pathway was significantly correlated with SOX4, and acetylshikonin upregulated PI3K/Akt pathway while inhibiting SOX4 expression. In the anterior puncture IVDD mouse model, SOX4 expression was upregulated, and acetylshikonin and siSOX4 delayed IVDD‐induced LBP. Acetylshikonin delays IVDD‐induced LBP by inhibiting SOX4 expression through the PI3K/Akt pathway. These findings offer potential therapeutic targets for future treatments.
Poly‐γ‐glutamic acid improved biological nitrogen fixation, water‐nitrogen productivity, and nitrate residue in cotton/soybean intercropping
Authors: Jing Bo , Shi Wenjuan , Liu Lu , Wang Ying
Published: June 2023

Background

Poly‐γ‐glutamic acid (γ‐PGA) can promote crop growth and improve soil properties efficiently. However, the optimal application rate of γ‐PGA in legume/non‐legume intercropping systems is still unclear. A potted experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of five γ‐PGA rates (0%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.4%, represented by CK, P1, P2, P3, and P4, respectively) on biological nitrogen (N) fixation (BNF), water‐N productivity, and nitrate distribution in a cotton/soybean intercropping system.

Results

The results showed that the growth indicators (plant height, stem diameter, leaf area index, root dry weight, root length) of cotton and soybean increased first and then decreased with increasing γ‐PGA rates, and all growth indicators of cotton and soybean showed peaks in P3 and P2 treatments. The stable 15N isotope method indicated that γ‐PGA promoted the BNF capacity of soybean and soil. In particular, the percentage of N derived from the atmosphere (Ndfa) in soybean reached 61.94% in the P2 treatment. Poly‐γ‐glutamic acid improved the water‐N productivity, and the total N partial factor productivity (NPFP) and water productivity (WP) in P3 treatment increased by 23.80% and 43.86% compared with the CK treatment. The γ‐PGA mitigation of potential nitrate residue also decreased first and then increased with increasing γ‐PGA rates.

Conclusion

Multivariate regression analysis showed that 0.22% of the optimal γ‐PGA application rate could obtain a higher yield and water‐N productivity in cotton/soybean intercropping system simultaneously. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Persistent poverty impacts access to minimally invasive surgery among patients with hepatopancreatobiliary cancer
Authors: Rawicz‐Pruszyński Karol , Woldesenbet Selamawit , Endo Yutaka , Munir Muhammad M. , Katayama Erryk , Waqar Usama , Khan Muhammad Muntazir Mehdi , Khalil Mujtaba , Rueda Belisario Ortiz , Resende Vivian , Dillhoff Mary , Cloyd Jordan , Ejaz Aslam , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has been successfully adopted in hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) cancer, and has been associated with improved perioperative and comparable oncological outcomes. We sought to define the impact of county‐level duration of poverty on access to MIS and clinical outcomes among patients with HPB cancer undergoing surgical treatment.

Materials and Methods

Data on patients diagnosed with HPB cancer were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)‐Medicare data (2010–2016). County‐level poverty data were obtained from the American Community Survey and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and categorized into three groups: never high poverty (NHP), intermittent high poverty (IHP), and persistent poverty (PP). Multivariable regression was used to assess the relationship between PP and MIS.

Results

Among 8098 patients, 82% (n = 664) resided in regions with NHP, 13.6% (n = 1104) resided in regions with IHP, and 4.4% (n = 350) resided in regions with PP. Median age at the diagnosis was 71 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 67–77). Patients from IHP and PP counties had lower odds of undergoing MIS (IHP/PP vs. NHP, odds ratio [OR]: 0.59, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.36–0.96, p = 0.034) and being discharged home (IHP/PP vs. NHP, OR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.43–0.99, p = 0.043), as well as a higher risk of 1‐year mortality (IHP/PP vs. NHP, HR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.036–2.209, p = 0.032) compared with patients residing in NHP counties.

Conclusions

Duration of county‐level poverty was associated with lower receipt of MIS and unfavorable clinical and survival outcomes among patients with HPB cancer. There is a need to improve access to modern surgical treatment options among vulnerable, PP populations.
The Association between Circulating 25‐Hydroxyvitamin D and Carotid Intima‐Media Thickness Is Mediated by Gut Microbiota and Fecal and Serum Metabolites in Adults
Authors: Liu Chun‐ying , Li Bang‐yan , Liang Yuhui , Xu Jinjian , Zhuo Lai‐Bao , Wang Jia‐ting , Hu Wei , Sun Ting‐yu , Xu Fengzhe , Gou Wanglong , Zheng Ju‐Sheng , Chen Yu‐ming
Published: June 2023

Scope

Vitamin D is vital to cardiovascular health. This study examines the association between plasma 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) and the progression of carotid intima‐media thickness (cIMT) and identifies the potential mediating biomarkers of gut microbiota and metabolites in adults.

Methods and Results

This 9‐year prospective study includes 2975 subjects with plasma 25(OH)D at baseline and determined cIMT every 3 years. Higher circulating 25(OH)D is associated with decreased odds of higher (≥median) 9‐year cIMT changes at the common carotid artery (hΔCCA‐cIMT) (p‐trend < 0.001). Multivariable‐adjusted OR (95%CI) of hΔCCA‐cIMT for tertiles 2 and 3 (vs. 1) of 25(OH)D is 0.87 (0.73–1.04) and 0.68 (0.57–0.82). Gut microbiome and metabolome analysis identify 18 biomarkers significantly associated with both 25(OH)D and hΔCCA‐cIMT, including three microbial genera, seven fecal metabolites, eight serum metabolites, and pathway of synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies. Mediation/path analyses show the scores generated from the overlapped differential gut microbiota, fecal and serum metabolites, and serum acetoacetic acid alone could mediate the beneficial association between 25(OH)D and hΔCCA‐cIMT by 10.8%, 23.1%, 59.2%, and 62.0% (all p < 0.05), respectively.

Conclusions

These findings show a beneficial association between plasma 25(OH)D and the CCA‐cIMT progression. The identified multi‐omics biomarkers provide novel mechanistic insights for the epidemiological association.
Virtual pretreatment patient‐specific quality assurance of volumetric modulated arc therapy using deep learning
Authors: Yoganathan SA , Ahmed Sharib , Paloor Satheesh , Torfeh Tarraf , Aouadi Souha , Al‐Hammadi Noora , Hammoud Rabih
Published: June 2023

Background

Automatic patient‐specific quality assurance (PSQA) is recently explored using artificial intelligence approaches, and several studies reported the development of machine learning models for predicting the gamma pass rate (GPR) index only.

Purpose

To develop a novel deep learning approach using a generative adversarial network (GAN) to predict the synthetic measured fluence.

Methods and materials

A novel training method called “dual training,” which involves the training of the encoder and decoder separately, was proposed and evaluated for cycle GAN (cycle‐GAN) and conditional GAN (c‐GAN). A total of 164 VMAT treatment plans, including 344 arcs (training data: 262, validation data: 30, and testing data: 52) from various treatment sites, were selected for prediction model development. For each patient, portal‐dose‐image‐prediction fluence from TPS was used as input, and measured fluence from EPID was used as output/response for model training. Predicted GPR was derived by comparing the TPS fluence with the synthetic measured fluence generated by the DL models using gamma evaluation of criteria 2%/2 mm. The performance of dual training was compared against the traditional single‐training approach. In addition, we also developed a separate classification model specifically designed to detect automatically three types of errors (rotational, translational, and MU‐scale) in the synthetic EPID‐measured fluence.

Results

Overall, the dual training improved the prediction accuracy of both cycle‐GAN and c‐GAN. Predicted GPR results of single training were within 3% for 71.2% and 78.8% of test cases for cycle‐GAN and c‐GAN, respectively. Moreover, similar results for dual training were 82.7% and 88.5% for cycle‐GAN and c‐GAN, respectively. The error detection model showed high classification accuracy (>98%) for detecting errors related to rotational and translational errors. However, it struggled to differentiate the fluences with “MU scale error” from “error‐free” fluences.

Conclusion

We developed a method to automatically generate the synthetic measured fluence and identify errors within them. The proposed dual training improved the PSQA prediction accuracy of both the GAN models, with c‐GAN demonstrating superior performance over the cycle‐GAN. Our results indicate that the c‐GAN with dual training approach combined with error detection model, can accurately generate the synthetic measured fluence for VMAT PSQA and identify the errors. This approach has the potential to pave the way for virtual patient‐specific QA of VMAT treatments.
Pulmonary embolism detection on venous thrombosis ultrasound images with bi‐dimensional entropy measures: Preliminary results
Authors: Jamin Antoine , Hoffmann Clément , Mahe Guillaume , Bressollette Luc , Humeau‐Heurtier Anne
Published: June 2023

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common health issue. A clinical expression of VTE is a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) that may lead to pulmonary embolism (PE), a critical illness. When DVT is suspected, an ultrasound exam is performed. However, the characteristics of the clot observed on ultrasound images cannot be linked with the presence of PE. Computed tomography angiography is the gold standard to diagnose PE. Nevertheless, the latter technique is expensive and requires the use of contrast agents.

Purpose

In this article, we present an image processing method based on ultrasound images to determine whether PE is associated or not with lower limb DVT. In terms of medical equipment, this new approach (Doppler ultrasound image processing) is inexpensive and quite easy.

Methods

With the aim to help medical doctors in detecting PE, we herein propose to process ultrasound images of patients with DVT. After a first step based on histogram equalization, the analysis procedure is based on the use of bi‐dimensional entropy measures. Two different algorithms are tested: the bi‐dimensional dispersion entropy () mesure and the bi‐dimensional fuzzy entropy () mesure. Thirty‐two patients (12 women and 20 men, 67.63 ± 16.19 years old), split into two groups (16 with and 16 without PE), compose our database of around 1490 ultrasound images (split into seven different sizes from 32× 32 px to 128 × 128 px). p‐values, computed with the Mann‐Whitney test, are used to determine if entropy values of the two groups are statistically significantly different. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves are plotted and analyzed for the most significant cases to define if entropy values are able to discriminate the two groups.

Results

p‐values show that there are statistical differences between  of patients with PE and patients without PE for 112× 112 px and 128× 128 px images. Area under the ROC curve (AUC) is higher than 0.7 (threshold for a fair test) for 112× 112 and 128× 128 images. The best value of AUC (0.72) is obtained for 112× 112 px images.

Conclusions

Bi‐dimensional entropy measures applied to ultrasound images seem to offer encouraging perspectives for PE detection: our first experiment, on a small dataset, shows that  on 112× 112 px images is able to detect PE. The next step of our work will consist in testing this approach on a larger dataset and in integrating  in a machine learning algorithm. Furthermore, this study could also contribute to PE risk prediction for patients with VTE.
The constitutively active pSMAD2/3 relatively improves the proliferation of chicken primordial germ cells
Authors: Zare Masumeh , Mirhoseini Seyed Ziaeddin , Ghovvati Shahrokh , Yakhkeshi Saeed , Hesaraki Mahdi , Barati Mojgan , Sayyahpour Forough Azam , Baharvand Hossein , Hassani Seyedeh‐Nafiseh
Published: June 2023

In many multicellular organisms, mature gametes originate from primordial germ cells (PGCs). Improvements in the culture of PGCs are important not only for developmental biology research, but also for preserving endangered species, and for genome editing and transgenic animal technologies. SMAD2/3 appear to be powerful regulators of gene expression; however, their potential positive impact on the regulation of PGC proliferation has not been taken into consideration. Here, the effect of TGF‐β signaling as the upstream activator of SMAD2/3 transcription factors was evaluated on chicken PGCs' proliferation. For this, chicken PGCs at stages 26−28 Hamburger−Hamilton were obtained from the embryonic gonadal regions and cultured on different feeders or feeder‐free substrates. The results showed that TGF‐β signaling agonists (IDE1 and Activin‐A) improved PGC proliferation to some extent while treatment with SB431542, the antagonist of TGF‐β, disrupted PGCs' proliferation. However, the transfection of PGCs with constitutively active SMAD2/3 (SMAD2/3CA) resulted in improved PGC proliferation for more than 5 weeks. The results confirmed the interactions between overexpressed SMAD2/3CA and pluripotency‐associated genes NANOG, OCT4, and SOX2. According to the results, the application of SMAD2/3CA could represent a step toward achieving an efficient expansion of avian PGCs.
The effect of methylphenidate for giggle incontinence in children
Authors: Svendsen Ann-Kristine Mandoe , Kamperis Konstantinos , Hagstroem Soeren , Thorsteinsson Kristina Nauheimer , Arvad Mads , Borch Luise
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Giggle incontinence (GI) is a rare form of urinary incontinence that occurs during or immediately after laughing due to involuntary and complete bladder emptying. Few studies in the literature report that methylphenidate can be effective in treatment of this condition.

Objective

The aim of this study is to characterize children with GI and evaluate their response to methylphenidate, as well as describe treatment duration, dosage of methylphenidate, relapse rates after discontinuation of medication, and side effects.

Methods

Medical records and 48‐h frequency‐volume charts from children treated with methylphenidate for GI in the period January 2011–July 2021 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Eighteen children were diagnosed with GI and fulfilled inclusion criteria. Fifteen patients were included in analysis, as 3 out of 18 children decided not to take the methylphenidate that was prescribed. In total, 14 out of the 15 GI patients treated with methylphenidate experienced clinical effect. All patients included in the study had methylphenidate prescribed in a dose range of 5–20 mg daily. Treatment duration ranged from 30 to 1001 days, with a median of 152 days (IQR 114, 243.5). Ten children experienced complete response and two of those reported symptom relapse after discontinuation of the methylphenidate. Only mild and short‐lasting side effects were reported by two patients.

Discussion

Our study demonstrates that methylphenidate is an effective treatment in children diagnosed with GI. Side effects are mild and uncommon.
EML4::ALK fusions in complex lymphatic malformations
Authors: Apsel Winger Beth , Devine Walter Patrick , Hsiao Edward C. , Zapala Matthew , Van Ziffle Jessica , Gupta Nalin , Frieden Ilona J. , Shimano Kristin A.
Published: June 2023

Gorham–Stout disease (GSD) and generalized lymphatic anomaly (GLA) are subtypes of complex lymphatic malformations (CLMs) with osseous involvement that cause significant complications, including pain and pathologic fractures. As with other vascular anomalies, somatic mosaic mutations in oncogenes are often present, and the mTOR inhibitor sirolimus alleviates symptoms in some, but not all, patients. We describe two patients, one with GSD and one with GLA, found to have EML4::ALK fusions. This report of a targetable, oncogenic fusion in vascular malformations expands our understanding of the genetic basis for CLMs and suggests additional targeted therapies could be effective.
Impact of cytoreduction and remission status on hematopoietic cell transplantation outcomes in pediatric myelodysplastic syndrome and related disorders
Authors: Wachter Franziska , Hebert Kyle , Pikman Yana , Yang Jiemin , Shah Binita , Bledsoe Jacob , Shimamura Akiko , Neuberg Donna S. , Pollard Jessica A. , Lehmann Leslie E.
Published: June 2023

Background

The role of cytoreduction prior to hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) for patients with pediatric myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and related disorders remains unclear.

Procedure

We performed a single‐center retrospective analysis of pre‐transplant disease management and subsequent HCT outcome for pediatric patients with MDS and related disorders who underwent HCT between 2010 and 2020.

Results

Total 62 patients (median age 11 years) with idiopathic MDS (n = 16), MDS secondary to an underlying germline condition (n = 11), secondary acute myeloid leukemia (n = 9), myeloproliferative neoplasms (n = 8), and treatment‐related myeloid neoplasms (n = 18) received an allogeneic HCT. Cytoreduction prior to HCT was performed in 30/62 (48%) patients; this subset of patients had higher risk disease characteristics, including a higher blast count on presentation. In the overall cohort, use of cytoreduction before HCT was associated with higher rates of relapse (cumulative incidence of relapse 24 months post HCT: 48.1% [27.5%–66.1%]) for those who received cytoreduction versus 16.6% (5.9%–32.1%) for those who did not (p = .03). There was a trend toward decreased overall survival (OS) for those patients who received cytoreduction (24 months post HCT 57.1% vs. 75.3%, respectively; p = .06). OS for patients who received cytoreduction and attained measurable residual disease (MRD) negativity prior to HCT was superior compared to those with persistent disease (24 months post HCT 63.9% [36%–81.2%] vs. 33.3% [7.8%–62.3%], respectively; p = .04).

Conclusion

Cytoreduction did not provide survival benefit in our overall cohort, but its increased use in children with higher risk disease impacted the analysis. Patients receiving cytoreduction and achieving MRD‐negative status before HCT demonstrated improved OS compared to those with persistent disease.
Marriage‐immigrant Filipinas' acculturation and learning experiences in South Korea
Authors: Kim Jihyun
Published: June 2023

This interview‐based qualitative study aimed to understand the acculturative experiences of marriage‐immigrant women in South Korea. Filipinas, who are married to Korean husbands, migrated to South Korea to live with their husbands, and could speak English, were recruited for the research. Interviews with 15 Filipinas were analyzed. As a result, the stories of each of the research participants were reconstructed based on their interviews, and three common themes and 11 subthemes emerged from the constant comparison method are presented. First, marriage‐immigrant Filipinas learned about the role and position of a daughter‐in‐law in South Korea. Second, as mothers with foreign backgrounds, marriage‐immigrant Filipinas' motherhood had to be negotiated. Finally, marriage‐immigrant Filipinas actively engaged in developing extrafamilial support in South Korea by expanding their horizons.