bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capacity Factors over the Lifetime of Solar Thermal and Photovoltaic Plants
Authors: Boretti Alberto
Published: March 2023

The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) encompasses capital costs, operations and maintenance (O&M), and performance over the lifetime of a power plant. This parameter, important to compare renewable energy projects, is computed assuming an annual relative performance deterioration over the lifetime of the plant. The performance deterioration is revised to reflect operating data of the latest solar photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP) plants. From data for the largest of these plants built in the United States over the last decade, we note a marked initial growth phase in the performance of PV plants likely originating from a refinement of design and improvement in the O&M, followed by a limited decline, and a stable performance in the CSP plants of the simplest and more reliable parabolic trough (PT) design without thermal energy storage (TES). It is therefore suggested to consider an annual performance deterioration 0–0.25% for novel photovoltaic plants, and 0% for novel CSP plants PT without TES. The performance deterioration of the novel CSP plants of the solar tower design or plants with TES cannot be assessed based on the lack of data. The suggested changes slightly reduce the LCOE of solar plants, by thus making them more competitive with wind plants.
rGO‐Wrapped Hexagonal WO3 Nanorod as Advanced Electrode Material for Asymmetric Electrochemical Supercapacitors
Authors: Sengupta Shilpi , Kundu Manab
Published: March 2023

The multiple oxidation states of redox‐active materials enable them to store high‐energy better than the commonly used carbon‐based electrode materials. Accounting for these advantages, designing asymmetric supercapacitors by coupling redox‐active materials as positive electrodes with carbon‐based negative electrodes becomes a very attractive strategy. Herein, reduced graphene oxide‐wrapped hexagonal WO3 nanorod (rGO‐WO3 NR) by simple hydrothermal synthesis method is synthesized. Because of improved reaction kinetics resulting from the close contact between rGO and WO3 NRs, rGO‐WO3 NR demonstrates superior electrochemical properties than pure WO3. Motivated by the very high areal capacitance (2.5 F cm−3 at the applied current of 30 mA cm−2), an asymmetric SC device by combining rGO‐WO3 NR with activated carbon is assembled. The as‐assembled rGO‐WO3 NR//activated carbon asymmetric supercapacitor device demonstrates outstanding electrochemical performance in an operating voltage window of 1.2 V, admirable cycling stability of ≈95% (even after 14 000 cycles), with an energy density of 24.1 Wh Kg−1 at a power density of 1532.6 W Kg−1. These demonstrate the combination of redox‐active materials with high energy density can importantly boost the energy storage capacity of a supercapacitor.
Psychological distress and caregiving experience during the first two years of the COVID‐19 pandemic among parents of an offspring with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Zeiler Michael , Schneider Andrea , Philipp Julia , Truttmann Stefanie , Wittek Tanja , Kahlenberg Leonie , Auer‐Welsbach Ellen , Schöfbeck Gabriele , Mairhofer Dunja , Merl Elisabeth , Karwautz Andreas , Wagner Gudrun
Published: March 2023

Objective

To compare different aspects of caregiving distress and experience in parents of patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

Three cohorts of parents of AN patients (cohort 1‐pre‐pandemic: N = 78, cohort 2‐first pandemic year: N = 51, cohort 3‐second pandemic year: N = 119) were recruited from child and adolescent psychiatry wards and cross‐sectionally assessed as part of the clinical routine. Quantitative measures of psychological distress, psychopathology, eating disorder (ED)‐related burden, expressed emotion and caregiver skills were obtained at the beginning of the child's inpatient or outpatient treatment.

Results

Cohort 2 showed lower levels of anxiety and a tendency of lower emotional overinvolvement and higher caregiving skills compared to the pre‐pandemic cohort. In contrast, the levels of general psychological distress, depression, ED‐related burden and criticism observed in cohort 3 significantly exceeded pre‐pandemic levels. The prevalence of clinically relevant depression was higher in cohort 3 (41.5%) compared to cohorts 1 (24.4%) and 2 (21.6%).

Discussion

The pandemic effects on parents seem to be time‐specific. Lower distress in the early phase of the pandemic may be associated with improvements in parent‐child‐relationships reported in previous studies. However, the pandemic may has negative consequences in the long‐term emphasising the need of ongoing parental support.
Data driven machine learning models for short‐term load forecasting considering electrical vehicle load
Authors: Gujjarlapudi Ch Sekhar , Sarkar Dipu , Gunturi Sravan Kumar
Published: March 2023

Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity due to their fuel efficiency and ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Significant penetration of EVs with unregulated charging, which can have a substantial impact on power networks. Accurate load predictions, including the charging of EVs are crucial for ensuring the cost‐effective and dependable operation of power systems. In order to estimate short‐term load in the presence of EV load, the XG (extreme gradient) boost algorithm is proposed and the effectiveness of the performances are checked against other models. A variety of distinct meteorological parameters and the electrical load pattern for the years 2017 and 2018 for Northeast India are used to train the machine learning classifier models. R‐squared value analyses are also performed to identify the most correlated input parameters that influence the results of various models. Analysis shows that temperature, cloud cover, heat index, dew point, wind chill, and perceived temperature are substantially connected with electricity consumption. The performance of XG boost is outperformed by comparing prediction results with decision tree, random forest, K nearest neighbors, and logistic regression. Three separate case studies were employed for verification using the precision, F1 score, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy metrics. Our findings demonstrate that, in comparison to other forecasting models, XG Boost exhibits higher accuracy (83.84%, 81.51%, and 85.97%) and robust forecasts.
A dataset of sandstone detrital composition from Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau
Authors: Lai Wen , Hu Xiumian , Dong Xiaolong , Ma Anlin
Published: March 2023

As a hot topic in Earth sciences, the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau has accumulated a large amount of sedimentary‐related data. We constructed a dataset of detrital components for Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau from 63 peer‐reviewed publications. The dataset thus comprises 1813 Late Proterozoic to Pleistocene sandstones from 84 stratigraphic units. For each sample, we present details on reference, detrital composition, GPS, geographic location, depositional age, tectonic setting and depositional environment. It becomes a high‐quality dataset after the information on each sandstone sample was standardized and reviewed by sedimentary experts. The dataset can be used for regional geoscience studies, exploring the general laws of the source‐to‐sink process. The dataset may also be useful in the field of utilities, such as assisting in finding suitable building stones, helping oil and gas and mineral exploration, and so forth.
Numerically liquefaction analysis of tunnel‐sand pile interaction (TSPI) under seismic excitation
Authors: Haque Foisal
Published: March 2023

Liquefaction is a vital issue for the tunnel‐sand pile interaction (TSPI) system under seismic excitation. Therefore the present study proposed a TSPI model for the liquefaction analysis numerically using the numerical code of Plaxis 3D under local seismic excitation. Validation results of the numerical code inform a convincing level of accuracy to ensure the analysis of the TSPI model using this code. In this research, the geometry of the TSPI model is considered smaller compared to the tunnel diameter to influence the probability of the liquefaction occurrence, and the only variable geometric dimension is the tunnel pile clear distance of the interaction zone while other geometric and material properties are considered to be the standard value. UBC3D‐PLM (two yield surfaces consisting of kinematic hardening rules) constitutive model is used to ensure the liquefaction effect in the TSPI model; however, the excess pore pressure ratio exceeds the limiting value of 1 to inform the existence of liquefaction in the TSPI model. In addition, the uplift of sand is exceeded from the settlement due to liquefaction. However, further investigations such as experimental and analytical studies may have to be performed in the future to enhance the present study.
Las Leñas International Tunnel – Geomechanical challenges in large‐scale tunneling projects across The Andes
Authors: Orellana Rodrigo , Höfer‐Öllinger Giorgio , Ulloa Juan Carlos , Flores Bertoglio Alejandro
Published: March 2023

Developing large‐scale tunnelling projects in orogenic regions implies enormous technical challenges. Las Leñas International Tunnel Project through the Andes Main Cordillera of Chile and Argentina has been a long‐awaited infrastructure project, whose geological and topographic settings suggest several complex singularities to be considered, analyzed, and assessed during its development. Throughout the course of this feasibility study, the complex geological subsurface interpretation offers a broad spectrum of technical demands to be fulfilled. The overburden conditions, the presence of certain lithologies such as expansive clays or soluble evaporitic sequences, along with regional stress assessment, are major technical challenges. Through extensive geological, geotechnical, and hydrogeological mapping, subsurface 3D modelling interpretation, along with numerical analysis and its relationship with similar projects in the region, brittle, and plastic behaviour are analyzed. A wide range of modern techniques are used to assess those mentioned tasks, which enable an extensive comprehension of the geological and geotechnical conditions of the area. The purpose of this contribution is to enrich the knowledge on geological and geomechanical challenges faced in large tunnelling infrastructure projects in high‐mountain environments and what specific lessons may arise from them for similar future projects.
Supporting the revision of the health benefits package in Uganda: A constrained optimisation approach
Authors: Mohan Sakshi , Walker Simon , Sengooba Freddie , Kiracho Elizabeth Ekirapa , Mayora Chrispus , Ssennyonjo Aloysius , Aliti Candia Tom , Revill Paul
Published: March 2023

This study demonstrates how the linear constrained optimization approach can be used to design a health benefits package (HBP) which maximises the net disability adjusted life years (DALYs) averted given the health system constraints faced by a country, and how the approach can help assess the marginal value of relaxing health system constraints. In the analysis performed for Uganda, 45 interventions were included in the HBP in the base scenario, resulting in a total of 26.7 million net DALYs averted. When task shifting of pharmacists' and nutrition officers' tasks to nurses is allowed, 73 interventions were included in the HBP resulting in a total of 32 million net DALYs averted (a 20% increase). Further, investing only $58 towards hiring additional nutrition officers' time could avert one net DALY; this increased to $60 and $64 for pharmacists and nurses respectively, and $100,000 for expanding the consumable budget, since human resources present the main constraint to the system.
Alterations in the coagulation markers did not show differences with the severity of COVID‐19 in Peruvian patients: A cross‐sectional single‐center study
Authors: Moya‐Salazar Jeel , Cóndor Liliana Y. , Zuñiga Nahomi , Jaime‐Quispe Alexis , Moya‐Salazar Belén , Chicoma‐Flores Karina , Cañari Betsy , Contreras‐Pulache Hans
Published: March 2023

Background and Aims

COVID‐19 is a pandemic disease that can lead to altered lung function, systemic inflammatory events, and altered coagulation. During severe stages of the disease, changes in coagulation homeostasis increase, leading to thrombosis, and increased risk of death. In this cross‐sectional study, we aimed to assess coagulation markers by COVID‐19 severity in Peruvian adults.

Methods

During the second wave of infections, we included 186 adults diagnosed with COVID‐19 (mean age 53.3 ± 16.3 years). Patients were divided into mild, moderate, and severe stages of COVID‐19, and coagulation markers included prothrombin time (PT), activated partial prothrombin time (aPTT), fibrinogen, d‐dimer, and platelet count.

Results

Of the total, 120 (64.5%) were males and 39 (21%) were in the intensive care unit. We determine 104 (55.9%), 43 (24.7%), and 36 (19.4%) patients in mild, moderate, and severe stages of COVID‐19, respectively. In the severe stage of COVID‐19, patients had an average concentration of PT, aPTT, fibrinogen, d‐dimer, and platelets of 13.2 ± 0.9 s, 28.9 ± 4.3 s, 679.4 ± 185.1 mg/dL, 1.9 ± 3.1 µg/mL, and 272.8 ± 88.9 cel/10 mm,3 respectively. We found no differences in the concentration of each marker according to severity (p < 0.05). Patients with severe COVID‐19 had altered the aPTT, fibrinogen, d‐dimer, and PT in 31 (57.4%), 48 (88.9%), 37 (68.5%), and 15 (27.8%) cases, respectively.

Conclusions

Our results showed that although there is an alteration in coagulation markers, mainly fibrinogen and d‐fiber, there are no differences in concentration according to the severity of COVID‐19.
Postoperative outcomes using Lichtenstein open hernioplasty versus Nyhus preperitoneal hernioplasty in inguinal hernia: A comparative analysis with 1‐year follow‐up
Authors: Cabrera‐Vargas Luis F. , Mendoza‐Zuchini Andrés , Aparicio Brandon S. , Pedraza Mauricio , Sajona‐Leguia Walter A. , Arias Jhoan S. R. , Lozada‐Martinez Ivan D. , Picón‐Jaimes Yelson A. , Narvaez‐Rojas Alexis R.
Published: March 2023

Background and Aim

Inguinal hernia is the most common defect of the abdominal wall in 75% and their treatment consists of surgical repair. The technique of choice is laparoscopic because of its overall benefits. However, when this is not available, open approaches may be a viable option. Currently, the most commonly used open techniques are Lichtenstein and Nyhus. However, there are few medium‐ or long‐term studies that have compared outcomes between these two techniques.

Methods

This is a retrospective comparative study that included patients undergoing open inguinal hernia correction with mesh, using Lichtenstein open hernioplasty versus Nyhus preperitoneal hernioplasty, in two tertiary referral centers in Bogota, Colombia, during a period of 2 years. A bivariate analysis was performed to compare groups, according to the complications presented between the two techniques.

Results

A total of 193 patients were included, of whom 53.36% were men and 112 (58.03%) were approached with the Nyhus technique versus 81 patients with the Lichtenstein technique. Nonabsorbable suture fixation was performed in 100% of patients. Among the main complications, seroma (5.18%), pain (4.14%), bleeding (2.07%), recurrence (10.88%), and reoperation (0.51%) were observed, of which only recurrence showed a statistically significant difference, which is lower in the Nyhus approach (3.57% vs. 20.67%; p < 0.001). No patients died.

Conclusions

Both Nyhus and Lichtenstein hernioplasty techniques were shown to cause a low incidence of postoperative complications, with significantly lower recurrence using the Nyhus technique up to 1 year postoperatively.
Digital tools for rural agriculture extension: Impacts of mobile‐based advisories on agricultural practices in Southern India
Authors: Singh Rupika , Slotznick William , Stein Daniel
Published: March 2023

This paper presents the results of a cluster‐randomized controlled trial of a digital extension program in cashew‐growing communities in Andhra Pradesh, India, which provided agricultural information using a combination of in‐person video, SMS, and interactive voice recording messages. The study finds that the use of mobile channels significantly improved farmers’ recall, knowledge, and adoption of new techniques relative to farmers who only received videos. We do not find positive effects on farmer production or yield. We conclude that in our context, mobile‐based services are a promising supplement that can improve farmer outcomes and boost the reach and inclusivity of agriculture extension.
Structural characterization, thermal stability, and solvent de‐/ad‐sorption behavior of two d10 M(II) (M = Cd and Zn) coordination polymers constructed by 1,3,5‐tris(4‐pyridylsulfanyl‐methyl)‐2,4,6‐trimethyl‐benzene (L1)
Authors: Wang Chih‐Chieh , Tsai Ciao‐Shin , Lee Gene‐Hsiang , Chien Su‐Ying , Chen Bo‐Hao , Chuang Yu‐Chun
Published: March 2023

Two d10 M(II) (M = Cd and Zn) coordination polymers (CPs) with chemical formulas, {[Cd(L1)(NCS)2(H2O)]⋅C2H5OH}n (1), and {[Zn(L1)(NCS)2]⋅C2H5OH⋅0.5H2O}n (2) (L1 = 1,3,5‐tris(4‐pyridylsulfanylmethyl)‐2,4,6‐trimethylbenzene) were synthesized and structurally characterized by single‐crystal x‐ray diffraction method. In compound 1, the coordination environment of Cd(II) ion is distorted octahedral bonded to three nitrogen donors from three L1 ligands located in a facial‐position, two nitrogen donors from NCS− and one water molecule. The L1 acts as a bridge ligand with tris‐monodentate coordination mode in a cis‐cis‐cis structural conformation, connecting the Cd(II) to form a two‐dimensional (2D) zigzag‐like layered metal‐organic frameworks. Adjacent 2D layers are then arranged orderly in an ABAB manner to complete its three‐dimensional (3D) supramolecular architecture. In compound 2, the coordination environment of Zn(II) ion is distorted tetrahedral bonded to two nitrogen donors from two L1 ligands and two nitrogen donors from two NCS− ligands. The L1 acts as a bridge ligand with bis‐monodentate coordination mode in a cis‐cis‐cis structural conformation, connecting the Zn(II) ions to form a one‐dimensional (1D) zigzag‐like polymeric chain. Adjacent chains are arranged orderly in an alternate ABAB manner to generate a 2D framework and then further arranged in an AAA manner to complete its 3D supramolecular architecture. The structural characterization as well as thermal‐stability and solvents de‐/ad‐sorption behavior of 1 and 2 are studied and discussed in details.
Role of global sphericity index in evaluation of fetal cardiac remodeling in late onset fetal growth restriction and small for gestational age fetuses
Authors: Devi G Geeta , Balakrishnan Bijoy , Batra Meenu , Patil Swapneel Nilkanth , Madhusoodanan Lipi , Hooda Ruchi , KK Gopinathan
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) fetuses develop cardiovascular remodeling and dysfunction and, in this process, heart first compensates by changing its shape from ellipsoid to spherical and then cardiac dysfunction follows. Our aim was to evaluate global sphericity index (GSI) after 32 weeks of gestation to evaluate this change in cardiac shape and correlate GSI changes associated with fetal growth abnormalities.

Materials and Methods

This was a prospective study conducted at 32–38 weeks of gestation. Women were classified into three groups—Appropriate for gestational age (AGA), small for gestational age (SGA), late onset FGR (LO FGR) and GSI was measured and perinatal outcome studied.

Results

Out of 217 women, 131 were of AGA, 31 were SGA, 55 were of late onset FGR. SGA and late onset FGR groups had low GSI compared to AGA group. There was no significant difference in mean GSI between late onset FGR and SGA groups. Neonatal morbidity, adverse perinatal outcomes did not significantly differ with GSI in SGA and late onset FGR groups.

Conclusion

This study showed that late gestation small fetuses develop early stages of cardiovascular remodeling as shown by GSI changes. These changes were independent of Doppler changes. This supports the concept that atleast a proportion of them are not constitutionally small but are true forms of FGR.
Joint polygenic and environmental risks for childhood attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and ADHD symptom dimensions
Authors: Mooney Michael A. , Ryabinin Peter , Morton Hannah , Selah Katharine , Gonoud Rose , Kozlowski Michael , Nousen Elizabeth , Tipsord Jessica , Antovich Dylan , Schwartz Joel , Herting Megan M. , Faraone Stephen V. , Nigg Joel T.
Published: March 2023

Background

attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with both polygenic liability and environmental exposures, both intrinsic to the family, such as family conflict, and extrinsic, such as air pollution. However, much less is known about the interplay between environmental and genetic risks relevant to ADHD—a better understanding of which could inform both mechanistic models and clinical prediction algorithms.

Methods

Two independent data sets, the population‐based Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study (ABCD) (N = 11,876) and the case‐control Oregon‐ADHD‐1000 (N = 1449), were used to examine additive (G + E) and interactive (GxE) effects of selected polygenic risk scores (PRS) and environmental factors in a cross‐sectional design. Genetic risk was measured using PRS for nine mental health disorders/traits. Exposures included family income, family conflict/negative sentiment, and geocoded measures of area deprivation, lead exposure risk, and air pollution exposure (nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter).

Results

ADHD PRS and family conflict jointly predicted concurrent ADHD symptoms in both cohorts. Additive‐effects models, including both genetic and environmental factors, explained significantly more variation in symptoms than any individual factor alone (joint R2 = .091 for total symptoms in ABCD; joint R2 = .173 in Oregon‐ADHD‐1000; all delta‐R2 p‐values <2e‐7). Significant effect size heterogeneity across ancestry groups was observed for genetic and environmental factors (e.g., Q = 9.01, p = .011 for major depressive disorder PRS; Q = 13.34, p = .001 for area deprivation). GxE interactions observed in the full ABCD cohort suggested stronger environmental effects when genetic risk is low, though they did not replicate.

Conclusions

Reproducible additive effects of PRS and family environment on ADHD symptoms were found, but GxE interaction effects were not replicated and appeared confounded by ancestry. Results highlight the potential value of combining exposures and PRS in clinical prediction algorithms. The observed differences in risks across ancestry groups warrant further study to avoid health care disparities.
Firms' digital investment and resilience to shocks: Evidence from the COVID‐19 pandemic in Ghana
Authors: Kofinti Raymond Elikplim , Orkoh Emmanuel , Frempong Raymond Boadi , Annim Samuel Kobina
Published: March 2023

This paper examines the effect of digital investment on firm performance amid the COVID‐19 pandemic in Ghana. Applying a difference‐in‐difference estimator to a panel of 7548 firm‐year observations from 2019 to 2020, we find a positive relationship between digital investment and firm performance. While these findings are robust to different estimation techniques, the complementarity of mobile money platforms and internet services yields a significant impact on firm performance than using either exclusively. We identify hiring new workers, downsizing and working from home as potential channels through which digital investment could influence firms' resilience amid the pandemic.
Image‐Based Biological Heart Age Estimation Reveals Differential Aging Patterns Across Cardiac Chambers
Authors: Salih Ahmed M. , Pujadas Esmeralda Ruiz , Campello Víctor M. , McCracken Celeste , Harvey Nicholas C. , Neubauer Stefan , Lekadir Karim , Nichols Thomas E. , Petersen Steffen E. , Raisi‐Estabragh Zahra
Published: March 2023

Background

Biological heart age estimation can provide insights into cardiac aging. However, existing studies do not consider differential aging across cardiac regions.

Purpose

To estimate biological age of the left ventricle (LV), right ventricle (RV), myocardium, left atrium, and right atrium using magnetic resonance imaging radiomics phenotypes and to investigate determinants of aging by cardiac region.

Study type

Cross‐sectional.

Population

A total of 18,117 healthy UK Biobank participants including 8338 men (mean age = 64.2 ± 7.5) and 9779 women (mean age = 63.0 ± 7.4).

Field Strength/Sequence

A 1.5 T/balanced steady‐state free precession.

Assessment

An automated algorithm was used to segment the five cardiac regions, from which radiomic features were extracted. Bayesian ridge regression was used to estimate biological age of each cardiac region with radiomics features as predictors and chronological age as the output. The “age gap” was the difference between biological and chronological age. Linear regression was used to calculate associations of age gap from each cardiac region with socioeconomic, lifestyle, body composition, blood pressure and arterial stiffness, blood biomarkers, mental well‐being, multiorgan health, and sex hormone exposures (n = 49).

Statistical Test

Multiple testing correction with false discovery method (threshold = 5%).

Results

The largest model error was with RV and the smallest with LV age (mean absolute error in men: 5.26 vs. 4.96 years). There were 172 statistically significant age gap associations. Greater visceral adiposity was the strongest correlate of larger age gaps, for example, myocardial age gap in women (Beta = 0.85, P = 1.69 × 10−26). Poor mental health associated with large age gaps, for example, “disinterested” episodes and myocardial age gap in men (Beta = 0.25, P = 0.001), as did a history of dental problems (eg LV in men Beta = 0.19, P = 0.02). Higher bone mineral density was the strongest associate of smaller age gaps, for example, myocardial age gap in men (Beta = −1.52, P = 7.44 × 10−6).

Data Conclusion

This work demonstrates image‐based heart age estimation as a novel method for understanding cardiac aging.

Evidence Level

1.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1.
Finite element simulation of growth modulation during brace treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Guy Aymeric , Aubin Carl‐Éric
Published: March 2023

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a spine deformity whose progression during growth is affected by asymmetrical loads acting on the spine. The conservative brace treatment aims to limit the deformity's progression until the end of skeletal growth. This study's objective was to develop a patient‐specific finite element model (FEM) simulating immediate in‐brace (IB) correction and subsequent growth modulation over 2 years of treatment. Thirty‐five retrospective AIS cases with documented correction over 2 years were analyzed. For each case, a patient‐specific FEM was built and IB correction was simulated. Vertebral growth and its modulation were modeled using simulated pressures on epiphyseal vertebral growth plates, including a compliance factor representing the recorded brace wear. The simulated Cobb angles, thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, and apical vertebral rotation were compared with the actual measurements immediately IB and out‐of‐brace (OOB) at the 2‐year follow‐up. Treatment outcomes according to simulated compliance scenarios of no brace‐wear versus full brace‐wear were also computed. The average immediate IB difference between the simulated and actual Cobb angle was 4.9° (main thoracic [MT]) and 3.7° (thoraco‐lumbar/lumbar [TL/L]). Two‐year OOB, it was 5.6° (MT) and 5.4° (TL/L). The no brace‐wear and full brace‐wear compliance scenarios resulted respectively in 15/35 (43%) and 31/35 (89%) simulated spine deformities progressing by <5° over 2 years of treatment. Clinical significance: the FEM's ability to simulate the final correction with an accuracy on the order of the radiological measurements’ interoperator reproducibility, combined with its sensitivity to brace‐wear compliance, provides confidence in the model's predictions for a comparative context of use like improving a brace's design before its application.
MRI‐based synthetic CT in the detection of knee osteoarthritis: Comparison with CT
Authors: Arbabi Saeed , Foppen Wouter , Gielis Willem Paul , van Stralen Marijn , Jansen Mylène , Arbabi Vahid , de Jong Pim A. , Weinans Harrie , Seevinck Peter
Published: March 2023

Magnetic resonance Imaging is the gold standard for assessment of soft tissues; however, X‐ray‐based techniques are required for evaluating bone‐related pathologies. This study evaluated the performance of synthetic computed tomography (sCT), a novel MRI‐based bone visualization technique, compared with CT, for the scoring of knee osteoarthritis. sCT images were generated from the 3T T1‐weighted gradient‐echo MR images using a trained machine learning algorithm. Two readers scored the severity of osteoarthritis in tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints according to OACT, which enables the evaluation of osteoarthritis, from its characteristics of joint space narrowing, osteophytes, cysts and sclerosis in CT (and sCT) images. Cohen's κ was used to assess the interreader agreement for each modality, and intermodality agreement of CT‐ and sCT‐based scores for each reader. We also compared the confidence level of readers for grading CT and sCT images using confidence scores collected during grading. Inter‐reader agreement for tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints were almost‐perfect for both modalities (κ = 0.83–0.88). The intermodality agreement of osteoarthritis scores between CT and sCT was substantial to almost‐perfect for tibiofemoral (κ = 0.63 and 0.84 for the two readers) and patellofemoral joints (κ = 0.78 and 0.81 for the two readers). The analysis of diagnosis confidence scores showed comparable visual quality of the two modalities, where both are showing acceptable confidence levels for scoring OA. In conclusion, in this single‐center study, sCT and CT were comparable for the scoring of knee OA.
Stable isotope and trace element analyses with non‐linear machine‐learning data analysis improved coffee origin classification and marker selection
Authors: Sim Joy , Mcgoverin Cushla , Oey Indrawati , Frew Russell , Kebede Biniam
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the geographical origin classification of green coffee beans from continental to country and regional levels. An innovative approach combined stable isotope and trace element analyses with non‐linear machine learning data analysis to improve coffee origin classification and marker selection. Specialty green coffee beans sourced from three continents, eight countries, and 22 regions were analyzed by measuring five isotope ratios (δ13C, δ15N, δ18O, δ2H, and δ34S) and 41 trace elements. Partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) was applied to the integrated dataset for origin classification.

RESULTS

Origins were predicted well at the country level and showed promise at the regional level, with discriminating marker selection at all levels. However, PLS‐DA predicted origin poorly at the continental and Central American regional levels. Non‐linear machine learning techniques improved predictions and enabled the identification of a higher number of origin markers, and those that were identified were more relevant. The best predictive accuracy was found using ensemble decision trees, random forest and extreme gradient boost, with accuracies of up to 0.94 and 0.89 for continental and Central American regional models, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The potential for advanced machine learning models to improve origin classification and the identification of relevant origin markers was demonstrated. The decision‐tree‐based models were superior with their embedded variable identification features and visual interpretation. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Effects of quercetin on the gel properties of pork myofibrillar proteins and related changes in protein conformation
Authors: Zhang Guangyao , Xiao Guijie , Yi Zi , Wang Letian , Jia Na , Liu Dengyong
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

To study the effects of quercetin on the functionality of myofibrillar proteins (MPs), various levels of quercetin (0, 10, 50, 100 and 200 μmol g−1 protein) were added to MP solution and the structure and gel properties of MPs were determined.

RESULTS

Compared with the control MPs not treated with quercetin, adding 10, 50 and 100 μmol g−1 quercetin caused a significant (P < 0.05) loss of sulfhydryls; 10 and 50 μmol g−1 quercetin enhanced the surface hydrophobicity significantly (P < 0.05), and 50, 100 and 200 μmol g−1 quercetin reduced the fluorescence intensity of tryptophan. Additions of 50, 100 and 200 μmol g−1 quercetin resulted in a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in MP solubility. Adding 10, 50 and 100 μmol g−1 quercetin did not significantly (P > 0.05) change the gel strength and water‐holding ability of MPs than control, but 200 μmol g−1 quercetin declined the gel properties significantly (P < 0.05). The microstructure and dynamic rheological properties confirmed the results of the gel properties of MPs affected by various levels of quercetin.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained in the present study show that mildly high levels of quercetin can maintain the gel properties of MPs, which may be a result of the moderate MP cross‐linkage and aggregation caused by the covalent and non‐covalent interactions of MPs. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Impact of Pelvic Rest Recommendations on Follow‐Up and Resolution of Placenta Previa and Low‐Lying Placenta
Authors: Greenwood Lauren , Mastrobattista Joan , Mack Lauren , Fox Karin , Lee Wesley , Donepudi Roopali
Published: March 2023

Objective

To determine the rate of resolution of placenta previa and low‐lying placenta (LLP) and the effect of pelvic rest recommendations on the timing of follow‐up imaging.

Methods

Retrospective review of pregnancies with previa/LLP detected on mid‐trimester exam at our ultrasound unit from 2019 to 2021. LLP was defined as the lower edge of placenta located within 2 cm of the internal cervical os. Previa was defined as any portion of the placenta touching with the internal os. Demographics, placental location, activity restrictions, and delivery outcomes were analyzed. Timing of follow‐up imaging was stratified by individuals advised and not advised pelvic rest.

Results

Exactly 144 patients had previa and 266 had LLP on the mid‐trimester exam with complete records. Previa resolution happened in 51.4% (74/144) of cases. Exactly 62% (46/74) of previa resolutions occurred by the 28‐week ultrasound. Exactly 45% (65/144) of previa patients were advised pelvic rest. Most pelvic rest and non‐pelvic rest patients had a 28‐week scan. Even when clearance occurred, most patients in both groups had a repeat ultrasound at 32 weeks. Exactly 75% of LLP resolved by the 28‐week scan, and the remainder by delivery. Exactly 12% (32/259) of LLP patients were advised pelvic rest.

Conclusion

Most societies recommend follow‐up imaging at 32 weeks; however, our results suggest this may be done sooner and closer to 28 weeks. Pelvic rest did not affect timing of repeat imaging or delivery.
Optimizing landscape patterns to maximize ecological‐production benefits of water–food relationship: Evidence from the West Liaohe River basin, China
Authors: Lyu Xin , Li Xiaobing , Wang Kai , Dang Dongliang , Gong Jirui , Wang Hong , Lou Anru
Published: March 2023

Watershed governance based on landscape pattern is a key research topic of watershed sustainable development, and the ecosystem services related to water resource management (WMESs) have become an important focus. The current research mainly focuses on the impact of land use type or landscape pattern on WMESs, while few studies focus on the relationship between WMESs and food production (FP), and the understanding of the impact of landscape pattern configuration on the water–food relationship is relatively limited. In this study, the West Liaohe River basin in China was selected as the research area. Based on the assessment of three WMESs (water yield, WY; soil loss by water, SW; and water purification, WP) and FP using models, we analyzed the influence mechanism of landscape pattern evolution on water–food relationship from 2000 to 2020. Then, the optimal allocation scheme of regional landscape patterns was discussed based on future land use scenario simulations. The results showed that the influence of landscape pattern evolution on the water–food relationship at the patch type level was higher than that at the landscape level, and the spatial configuration of landscape patterns can improve the water–food relationship. Promoting the intensive management of cropland and strengthening the construction of forest and grassland can improve the overall capacity of the WMESs and FP supply in the watershed. The study suggests that the natural development scenario, economic development scenario (EDS), and ecological protection scenario (EPS) should be implemented in counties A, B, and C, respectively. This indicates that counties with higher FP capacity are suitable for the EDS, while counties with lower FP capacity are suitable for the EPS, which will help maximize the benefits of FP and WMESs protection. The results of this study can provide a direct decision‐making basis for the maximization of ecological‐production benefits of the water–food relationship in watersheds and provide a scientific reference for land use policy regulation and ecological security protection of the watershed areas.
Analysis of FRAME data (A‐FRAME): An analytic approach to assess the impact of adaptations on health services interventions and evaluations
Authors: Mui Heather Z. , Brown‐Johnson Cati G. , Saliba‐Gustafsson Erika A. , Lessios Anna Sophia , Verano Mae , Siden Rachel , Holdsworth Laura M.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Tracking adaptations during implementation can help assess and interpret outcomes. The framework for reporting adaptations and modifications‐expanded (FRAME) provides a structured approach to characterize adaptations. We applied the FRAME across multiple health services projects, and developed an analytic approach to assess the impact of adaptations.

Methods

Mixed methods analysis of research diaries from seven quality improvement (QI) and research projects during the early stages of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Using the FRAME as a codebook, discrete adaptations were described and categorized. We then conducted a three‐step analysis plan: (1) calculated the frequency of adaptations by FRAME categories across projects; (2) qualitatively assessed the impact of adaptations on project goals; and (3) qualitatively assessed relationships between adaptations within projects to thematically consolidate adaptations to generate more explanatory value on how adaptations influenced intervention progress and outcomes.

Results

Between March and July 2020, 42 adaptations were identified across seven health services projects. The majority of adaptations related to training or evaluation (52.4%) with the goal of maintaining the feasibility (66.7%) of executing projects during the pandemic. Five FRAME constructs offered the most explanatory benefit to assess the impact of adaptations on program and evaluation goals, providing the basis for creating an analytic approach dubbed the “A‐FRAME,” analysis of FRAME data. Using the A‐FRAME, the 42 adaptations were consolidated into 17 succinct adaptations. Two QI projects discontinued altogether. Intervention adaptations related to staffing, training, or delivery, while evaluation adaptations included design, recruitment, and data collection adjustments.

Conclusions

By sifting qualitative data about adaptations into the A‐FRAME, implementers and researchers can succinctly describe how adaptations affect interventions and their evaluations. The simple and concise presentation of information using the A‐FRAME matrix can help implementers and evaluators account for the influence of adaptations on program outcomes.
High‐speed reflectance confocal microscopy of human skin at 1251–1342 nm
Authors: Ryu Jiheun , Kang Dongkyun , Kim Junyoung , Chung Anita , Grant Catriona N. , Ryan Emily , Barrios Amilcar , Osman Hany , Tearney Guillermo J.
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is an imaging method that can noninvasively visualize microscopic features of the human skin. The utility of RCM can be further improved by increasing imaging speed. In this paper, we report high‐speed RCM imaging of human skin with a frame rate that is over 10 times faster and an area imaging rate that is 6–9 times faster than those of commercially available RCM devices.

Methods

The higher imaging speed was achieved using a high‐speed RCM technique, termed spectrally encoded confocal microscopy (SECM). SECM uses a diffraction grating and a high‐speed, wavelength‐swept source to conduct confocal imaging at a very high rate. We developed a handheld SECM probe using a scanned‐grating approach. The SECM probe was used in conjunction with a wavelength‐swept source with a spectral band of 1251–1342 nm.

Results

The SECM probe achieved high lateral resolution of 1.3–1.6 µm and an axial resolution of 3.5 µm. SECM images of the human skin (image size = 439 × 439 µm2) obtained at 100 frames/s clearly show previously reported RCM features of the human skin in vivo with adequate image quality. The fast imaging speed allowed for the rapid acquisiton of volumetric SECM image data (200 frames covering a depth range of 200 µm) within 2 s. The use of 1251–1342 nm provided sufficient signal level and contrast required to visualize key cellular morphologic features.

Conclusions

These preliminary results demonstrate that high‐speed SECM imaging of the human skin at 1251–1342 nm is feasible.
Synthesis of Waterborne Anticorrosive Coatings Based on The Incorporation of Phosphate Groups to Polyurethane‐Acrylate Hybrids
Authors: Barquero Aitor , Llorente Oihane , Minudri Daniela , Paulis María , Leiza Jose Ramon
Published: March 2023

In this work, solvent‐free waterborne polyurethane‐poly(meth)acrylate hybrid dispersions that can be used to formulate anticorrosive paints are synthesized. To achieve the anticorrosive protection, a phosphate containing polymerizable surfactant, Sipomer PAM 200 is incorporated to the hybrids. The presence of phosphate groups can produce an iron phosphate passivation layer to provide coatings with anticorrosive properties. These properties are tested in both mild and harsh corrosive environments. It is observed that when the films are dried at 60% relative humidity conditions, very poor anticorrosive protection is achieved because no phosphatization is obtained, but increasing the humidity to 85% during the drying step allows the formation of the passivation layer providing good anticorrosive properties.
Neurofilament light‐chain response during therapy with antisense oligonucleotide tofersen in SOD1‐related ALS: Treatment experience in clinical practice
Authors: Meyer Thomas , Schumann Peggy , Weydt Patrick , Petri Susanne , Koc Yasemin , Spittel Susanne , Bernsen Sarah , Günther René , Weishaupt Jochen H. , Dreger Marie , Kolzarek Felix , Kettemann Dagmar , Norden Jenny , Boentert Matthias , Vidovic Maximilian , Meisel Christian , Münch Christoph , Maier André , Körtvélyessy Péter
Published: March 2023

Introduction/Aims

In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) caused by superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene mutations (SOD1‐ALS), the antisense oligonucleotide tofersen had been investigated in a phase III study (VALOR) and subsequently introduced in an expanded access program. In this study we assess neurofilament light chain (NfL) before and during tofersen treatment.

Methods

In six SOD1‐ALS patients treated with tofersen at three specialized ALS centers in Germany, NfL in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF‐NfL) and/or serum (sNfL) were investigated using the ALS Functional Rating Scale Revised (ALSFRS‐R) and ALS progression rate (ALS‐PR), defined by monthly decline of ALSFRS‐R.

Results

Three of the six SOD1‐ALS patients reported a negative family history. Three patients harbored a homozygous c.272A > C, p.(Asp91Ala) mutation. These and two other patients showed slower progressing ALS (defined by ALS‐PR <0.9), whereas one patient demonstrated rapidly progressing ALS (ALS‐PR = 2.66). Mean treatment duration was 6.5 (range 5 to 8) months. In all patients, NfL decreased (mean CSF‐NfL: −66%, range −52% to −86%; mean sNfL: −62%, range −36% to −84%). sNfL after 5 months of tofersen treatment was significantly reduced compared with the nearest pretreatment measurement (P = .017). ALS‐PR decreased in two patients, whereas no changes in ALSFRS‐R were observed in four participants who had very low ALS‐PR or ALSFRS‐R values before treatment.

Discussion

In this case series, the significant NfL decline after tofersen treatment confirmed its value as response biomarker in an expanded clinical spectrum of SOD1‐ALS. Given the previously reported strong correlation between sNfL and ALS progression, the NfL treatment response supports the notion of tofersen having disease‐modifying activity.
Impacts of climate change on process safety
Authors: Pacheco Cecilia
Published: March 2023

There is no denying that the planet is having its climate changing quickly, mainly attributed to global warming; and industries must prepare themselves for the new environmental conditions. A good planning based on studies to assess risks associated with extreme natural conditions is the best solution to minimize the consequences of natural disasters, favoring business continuity, a safer return to a normal routine, helping to prevent polluting in the environment and preserving lives.
Converting Ambipolar Double‐Walled Nanotube Bundles to Unipolar Carbon Nanotube Field‐Effect Transistor Devices by Inner Functionalization
Authors: Chimowa George , Flahaut Emmanuel , Sodisetti Venkateswara Rao , Bhattacharyya Somnath
Published: March 2023

Carbon nanotube (CNT)‐based transistor devices have been demonstrated and are seen as the next‐generation alternative to replace the current generation electronic devices based on silicon MOS technology. Their limitations, however, are related to their instability in ambient conditions and technical challenges in scaling up production of individual CNT devices. Herein, a simple technique to convert ambipolar (both n‐ and p‐carrier) individual CNT‐based transistors into unipolar (p‐type carrier) transistors that carry large currents ≈±7 mA before saturation is demonstrated. Such large current‐carrying capability from an individual or single‐bundle CNTs will be ideal for applications that require high currents such as output stages of radio frequency (RF) and audio amplifiers. This work highlights the ability to tune CNT‐based transistor devices to suit specific applications, which is essential for the development of next generation of nanoelectronics.
Novel Codoping Moiety to Achieve Enhanced P‐Type Doping in GaN by Ion Implantation
Authors: Jacobs Alan G. , Spencer Joseph A. , Hite Jennifer K. , Hobart Karl D. , Anderson Travis J. , Feigelson Boris N.
Published: March 2023

Codoping of gallium nitride for improved acceptor ionization has long been theorized; however, reduction to practice proves difficult via growth. Herein, implementation of codoping via ion implantation and symmetric multicycle rapid thermal annealing utilizing magnesium codoped with silicon or oxygen is demonstrated. Results show enhanced photoluminescence with both donor species but with an order of magnitude greater increase with concurrent p‐type hall for codoping with oxygen. Furthermore, the addition of nitrogen to balance stoichiometry suppresses defect photoluminescence signals. The incorporation of the donor and nitrogen demonstrates defect reduction beyond magnesium, only implants despite the additional implant dose and resultant damage with coimplantation. The enhanced hole concentrations evident with oxygen incorporation reveal important considerations for device design given unintentional doping during growth and future incorporation of ion implantation capabilities.