bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vortex‐assisted dispersive liquid‐phase microextraction for the analysis of main active compounds from Zi‐Cao‐Cheng‐Qi decoction based on a hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent
Authors: Xue Jiao , Yang Li , Chen Xuan , Bai Xiao‐Hong , Hu Shuang
Published: October 2021

In this study, a vortex‐assisted hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent dispersive liquid‐phase microextraction was developed and used for the extraction and preconcentration of six main active compounds in Zi‐Cao‐Cheng‐Qi decoction. The deep eutectic solvent, prepared by mixing tetrabutylammonium chloride and hexanoic acid at a molar ratio of 1:1, was added to the sample solution containing the analytes. In the absence of disperser, the extractant was rapidly dispersed into fine droplets by the aid of vortex and adequately contacted with the analytes. Some key parameters affecting the approach including extraction solvent type and volume, sample phase pH, extraction time, centrifugation time, and salt concentration were investigated and optimized. Under the optimum conditions, enrichment factors of the target analytes were in the range of 3–330. The calibration graphs were linear with a correlation coefficient (r) ≥ 0.9929. The detection limits were 0.3–0.9 ng/mL, and the satisfactory precisions (relative standard deviations, 0.5–8.9%) and accuracies (relative recoveries, 91.1–102.2%) were also obtained. The developed method was rapid (only 2 min), eco‐friendly, effective, and easy to operate. And it has been successfully applied to simultaneous extraction, enrichment, and determination of the main active compounds in a traditional Chinese medicinal formula coupled with high‐performance liquid chromatography.
Water‐saving techniques for restoring desertified lands: Some lessons from the field
Authors: Carabassa Vicenç , Alba‐Patiño Daniela , García Sergio , Campo Julián , Lovenstein Harrie , Van Leijen Gertruud , Castro Antonio J. , González Francisco , Viera Gustavo , Kourkoumpas Dimitrios‐Sotirios , Zioga Argyro Aliki , Papadelis Christos Emmanouel , Andreu Vicente , Gimeno Eugènia , Kallen Sven , Alcañiz Josep Maria
Published: October 2021

Nature‐based solutions can significantly contribute to restoration projects in areas affected by desertification processes, where they are necessary for reversing land degradation. Currently, one innovative solution is The Cocoon™, which has been designed as a new ecotechnology for improving seedling establishment. The Cocoon consists of a doughnut‐shaped container made of recycled cardboard that provides water and shelter at least during the first year of a seedling, which is the most critical for plant establishment. To determine the effectiveness of this ecotechnology under different conditions, the Cocoon was tested on a variety of soils, climates, vegetation, and land uses. Six planting trials were performed in Spain and Greece, which covered a range from humid to arid climates. With the objective of studying its functionality, the survival of the seedlings, their vigor, and growth were monitored for 2 years. Compared with conventional planting systems, the Cocoon has effectively increased seedling survival, especially under dry growing conditions (low rainfall, soils with low water holding capacity). The Cocoon also allowed for higher growth of some species (olive trees, holm oaks, and Aleppo pines). Moreover, a positive correlation between the rainfall on the site and the biodegradation degree of the Cocoon device was observed. Overall, the Cocoon becomes more efficient in arid climates or adverse growing conditions.
The use of recycled elastomeric materials for sustainability in circular economy
Authors: Kumawat Pankaj , Chanda Jagannath , Kotadiya Hemil , Das Sanjit Kumar , Das Gupta Saikat , Mukhopadhyay Rabindra
Published: October 2021

The use of scrapped elastomeric goods primarily service failed or worn‐out tires is a challenging task for the rubber society. To address this issue, recycling and reusing of these tires by different technique bring major relief toward environmental concern. Recycling technology generates secondary raw materials, which are important resources for manufacturing industries and contribute significantly for the sustainability in circular economy. In this work, an effort was made to understand the retention of physical properties as a function of crumb rubber loading and particle size. Four different sizes of cryogenically shredded crumb rubber particles (120, 140, 200, and 270 mesh) were physicochemically characterized and incorporated by 10 phr of each in two different grades of carbon black–filled, natural rubber–based tread compound. The mixed compounds were characterized and compared with the control one. Optical microscope and scanning electron microscope analyses concluded that the finer the particle size, the better is the dispersion of crumb rubber particles which provide superior mechanical, extrusion, and wear properties. Tensile properties were retained around 95%–97% for both 270‐mesh loaded compounds, which indicates that reduction in particle size can increase the volume of recycled product utilization.
Wearable devices for tracking physical activity in the community after an acquired brain injury: A systematic review
Authors: Veerubhotla Akhila , Krantz Amanda , Ibironke Oluwaseun , Pilkar Rakesh
Published: October 2021

Objective

The application of wearable devices in individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI) resulting from stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI) for monitoring physical activity (PA) has been relatively recent. The current systematic review aims to provide insights into the adaption of these devices, the outcome metrics, and their transition from the laboratory to the community for PA monitoring of individuals with ABI.

Literature Survey

The PubMed and Google Scholar databases were systematically reviewed using appropriate search terms. A total of 20 articles were reviewed from the last 15 years.

Methodology

Articles were classified into three categories: PA measurement studies, PA classification studies, and validation studies. The quality of studies was assessed using a quality appraisal checklist.

Synthesis

It was found that the transition of wearable devices from in‐lab to community‐based studies in individuals with stroke has started but is not widespread. The transition of wearable devices in the community has not yet started for individuals with TBI. Accelerometer‐based devices were more frequently chosen than pedometers and inertial measurement units. No consensus on a preferred wearable device (make or model) or wear location could be identified, although step count was the most common outcome metric. The accuracy and validity of most outcome metrics used in the community were not reported for many studies.

Conclusions

To facilitate future studies using wearable devices for PA measurement in the community, we recommend that researchers provide details on the accuracy and validity of the outcome metrics specific to the study environment. Once the accuracy and validity are established for a specific population, wearable devices and their derived outcomes can provide objective information on mobility impairment as well as the effect of rehabilitation in the community.
Stakeholder‐informed conceptual framework for financial burden among adolescents and young adults with cancer
Authors: Danhauer Suzanne C. , Canzona Mollie , Tucker‐Seeley Reginald D. , Reeve Bryce B. , Nightingale Chandylen L. , Howard Dianna S. , Puccinelli‐Ortega Nicole , Little‐Greene Denisha , Salsman John M.
Published: October 2021

Background

Cancer and its treatments can result in substantial financial burden that may be especially distressing for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) since they are at a developmental stage focused on completing one's education and establishing independence. The purpose of this study was to develop a conceptual model of financial burden among AYA cancer patients to inform development of a financial burden measure.

Methods

In‐depth concept elicitation interviews were conducted with a purposive‐selected stakeholder sample (36 AYAs and 36 AYA oncology health care providers). The constant comparative method was used to identify themes that illustrate AYAs' experience of financial burden by stakeholder groups.

Results

Eleven financial burden themes emerged: (1) impact of socioeconomic status and age; (2) significant cancer costs; (3) indirect cost “ripple effects”; (4) limited awareness of costs (adolescents); (5) emotional impact; (6) feeling overwhelmed navigating the health care system; (7) treatment decision modifications; (8) reducing spending; (9) coping strategies; (10) financial support; and (11) long‐lasting impact. The conceptual model highlights the importance of material, psychosocial, and behavioral domains of financial burden with an emphasis on phase along the cancer continuum and developmental stage in the experience of financial burden for AYAs.

Conclusions

Issues presented in the voice of AYA patients and providers highlight the profound impact of financial burden in this survivor group. The next step in this work will be to develop and test a patient‐reported measure of financial burden among AYA cancer survivors.
The combination of two Bacillus strains suppresses Meloidogyne incognita and fungal pathogens, but does not enhance plant growth
Authors: Cruz‐Magalhães Valter , Guimarães Rafaela A , da Silva Julio CP , de Faria Amanda F , Pedroso Márcio P , Campos Vicente P , Marbach Phellippe AS , de Medeiros Flávio HV , De Souza Jorge T
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

The combination of biocontrol agents is a desirable strategy to improve control efficacy against the root‐knot nematode (RKN) Meloidogyne incognita under field conditions. However, strains compatibility is generally tested in vitro and incompatible combinations are normally not further examined in experiments in planta. Therefore, there is virtually no information on the performance of incompatible strains. In this study, we evaluated two Bacillus strains previously described as incompatible in vitro for effects on plant growth and suppression of M. incognita, pathogenic fungi and nematophagous fungi.

RESULTS

Strains BMH and INV were shown to be closely related to Bacillus velezensis. These strains, when applied individually, reduced the number of galls and eggs of M. incognita by more than 90% in tomato roots. When BMH and INV were combined (BMH + INV), RKN suppression and tomato shoot weight were lower compared to single‐strain applications. Additionally, metabolites in cell‐free supernatants and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from strains BMH and INV had strong effects against the plant pathogens M. incognita, Fusarium oxysporum, Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotium rolfsiii, but not against three species of nematophagous fungi. Although strain INV and the combination BMH + INV emitted fewer VOCs than strain BMH, they were still capable of killing second‐stage juveniles of M. incognita.

CONCLUSIONS

Bacillus strains BMH and INV inhibited M. incognita and fungal pathogens, and promoted tomato growth. However, strain INV emitted fewer VOCs and the combination BMH + INV did not enhance the activity of the biocontrol strains against the RKN or their capacity to promote plant growth. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Synthesis, antibacterial evaluation, and safety assessment of CuS NPs against Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum
Authors: Yan Weiyao , Fu Xuan , Gao Yuan , Shi Liyin , Liu Qi , Yang Wenchao , Feng Jianguo
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Copper agents have been widely used in crop protection because of their unique mechanism against resistant pathogenic bacteria; however, their application brings environmental pollution and biosafety problems. Therefore, environmentally friendly copper agents have attracted attention. In this study, copper sulfide nanoparticles (CuS NPs) were prepared, characterized, analyzed for antibacterial activity and safety.

RESULTS

Characterization results showed that the prepared pure CuS NPs have flake nanostructures, hexagonal crystal system, and size range from 40 to 60 nm. These CuS NPs exerted excellent antibacterial effects [median effective concentration (EC50) = 17 mg L−1] against Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum (Pcc) in vitro and can effectively delay and reduce bacterial infection in vivo. Antibacterial mechanism analysis revealed that CuS NPs can increase the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation and destroy the structure of bacterial cells as observed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. These NPs can also inhibit the motility of Pcc. At 7 and 14 days, the 50% lethal concentrations (LC50) of CuS NPs against earthworms were 1136 and 783 mg kg−1, respectively, indicating their low acute toxicity to earthworms and environmental friendliness. Furthermore, the cells (L02) treated by CuS NPs showed relatively high cell viability (> 96%) and low apoptosis rate (only 5.2%), proving that CuS NPs had low cytotoxicity.

CONCLUSION

Compared with commercial dicopper chloride trihydroxide (Cu2(OH)3Cl), CuS NPs could be used as a highly effective, lowly toxic, and environmentally friendly antibacterial agent. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Targeted delivery of emamectin benzoate by functionalized polysuccinimide nanoparticles for the flowering cabbage and controlling Plutella xylostella
Authors: Ye Xu , Liu Meichen , Zhao Ning , Xiao Chunxia , Xu Hanhong , Jia Jinliang
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Plutella xylostella, one of the most destructive and cosmopolitan pests of cruciferous crops, is especially harmful to the young tissues of the flowering cabbage (Brassica campestris L.). Although emamectin benzoate (EB) has high insecticidal activity against P. xylostella, one major reason of low utilization for EB is the lack of internal transport in the young plants.

RESULTS

In this study, four kinds of functional EB/polysuccinimide (PSI) with glycine methylester nanoparticles (EB@PGA NPs) were prepared. The obtained EB@PGA NPs could effectively protect EB from photolysis, and the degradation rate of EB@PGA NPs was <30% in 24 h. Simulating the intestinal pH = 9 of P. xylostella, the highest cumulative release rate of EB@PGA NPs could reach 89.61% in 24 h. Furthermore, EB@PGA NPs could delivery EB into the young tissues of the flowering cabbage through the nanocarrier, and the highest transport efficiency of EB@PGA25 reached 1.437%. The bioactivity of EB@PGA25 against P. xylostella larvae (LC50 = 0.34 μg mL−1) was 1.6‐fold higher than that of EB (LC50 = 0.53 μg mL−1). EB@PGA could easily become ‘internalized’ into the intestinal wall of P. xylostella, thus increasing the penetration of the drug and enhancing the insecticidal activity.

CONCLUSION

The accurate delivery of insecticides by PGA nanocarriers into young tissues of plants could be a promising new method for the efficient management of field pests and diseases. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Experimental investigation on water release and gas emission of evapotranspirative capillary barrier landfill covers
Authors: Chen Rui , Huang Junwen , Leung Anthony Kwan , Chen Zhongkui , Chen Zibin
Published: October 2021

Evapotranspirative (ET) landfill covers release soil moisture stored therein by grass root–water uptake during the drying process. The reduction of soil water content during this process, however, would cause an increase in gas permeability and landfill gas emission. Few studies have focused on the mechanisms of water release and gas emission in ET covers under drying conditions and how different cover configurations might affect the water–gas transport mechanisms. In this study, a series of soil column tests were conducted to investigate the water and gas transport in three configurations of ET covers, namely monolithic cover, two‐layer capillary barrier cover (CBC), and three‐layer CBC. All columns were subjected to the same drying treatment for 42 h followed by the application of a constant gas pressure at the column base. Vertical distributions of pore water pressure, volumetric water content, and pore gas pressure, as well as any gas emission rate from the top of each cover were measured. Compared with the monolithic ET cover, the two‐layer capillary barrier ET cover did not adversely affect the cumulative amount of water release, but the presence of the coarse‐grained layer, which has relatively high gas permeability, caused a higher gas emission rate. In the three‐layer cover, the addition of a low‐permeability layer underneath the capillary barrier effectively minimized gas emission. On the other hand, the upper two‐layer capillary barrier can avoid desiccation cracks of the low‐permeability layer during the drying period.
“If You’re Gonna be Inclusive, You have to be Inclusive on all Levels”: Ableism in Teacher Collaboration
Authors: Phuong Jennifer , DiPasquale Katherine , Rivera Natalie
Published: October 2021

In this piece, we explore how ableism manifests in teacher collaboration, focusing on the experiences of English as a Second Language teachers and special education teachers. We broaden the definition of ableism to consider how schools rely on ideas of some students as normal and others as not, leading to a service delivery model. The service delivery model results in fragmented and compartmentalized views of students that see language and disability needs as distinct, thus leading to difficulties for the teachers who work with students who are labeled disabled and as English Learners. We end with reflection questions for administrators and educators to consider to better serve the needs of their students.
Symmetry resolved relative entropies and distances in conformal field theory
Authors: Capizzi Luca , Calabrese Pasquale
Published: October 2021

Abstract

We develop a systematic approach to compute the subsystem trace distances and relative entropies for subsystem reduced density matrices associated to excited states in different symmetry sectors of a 1+1 dimensional conformal field theory having an internal U(1) symmetry. We provide analytic expressions for the charged moments corresponding to the resolution of both relative entropies and distances for general integer n. For the relative entropies, these formulas are manageable and the analytic continuation to n = 1 can be worked out in most of the cases. Conversely, for the distances the corresponding charged moments become soon untreatable as n increases. A remarkable result is that relative entropies and distances are the same for all symmetry sectors, i.e. they satisfy entanglement equipartition, like the entropies. Moreover, we exploit the OPE expansion of composite twist fields, to provide very general results when the subsystem is a single interval much smaller than the total system. We focus on the massless compact boson and our results are tested against exact numerical calculations in the XX spin chain.
Knowledge and skills of emergency physicians in managing traumatic dental injuries
Authors: Wolfer S. , von Hahn N. , Sievers D. , Hohenstein Ch. , Kauffmann P.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Emergency departments are frequently confronted with traumatic dental injuries (TDIs). The prognosis of the injured tooth is related to early dental trauma management. For this reason, physicians must be familiar with the appropriate management of TDI. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge and skills of German emergency physicians regarding TDI.

Methods

An electronic questionnaire was sent to 438 emergency departments throughout Germany. Four hundred and twenty seven questionnaires were evaluated and included in the analysis. The survey contained questions about physician characteristics and assessed their knowledge and skills of managing dental trauma. For statistical analysis, the Kruskal–Wallis, Mann–Whitney U test or ANOVA test was used as appropriate. Rank correlations were performed with the Spearman’s rank correlation.

Results

Out of 427 participants, 256 (59.95%) stated they had no or insufficient knowledge, and 266 (71.12%) stated they had no skills in dental trauma management. Almost 76% of the participants had no previous knowledge of dentistry. Only 7.28% knew the right procedure for replanting an avulsed tooth. Just 26.06% would choose the right medium for temporary tooth storage. Having a dentist in the family (p = 0.0074) or clinical exposure to patients with dental trauma (p = 0.0384) influenced the results of the knowledge score.

Conclusion

The knowledge and skills in dental trauma management among German emergency physicians are generally inadequate. Targeted training courses are necessary to ensure early and adequate TDI treatment to reduce the resulting medical and societal costs as much as possible.
Steady-state ferumoxytol-enhanced MRI: early observations in benign abdominal organ masses and clinical implications
Authors: Shahrouki Puja , Felker Ely R. , Raman Steven S. , Jeong Woo Kyoung , Lu David S. , Finn J. Paul
Published: October 2021

Introduction

The off-label use of ferumoxytol as a vascular MR imaging agent is growing rapidly. However, the properties of ferumoxytol suggest that it may play an important role in the detection and characterization of abdominal mass lesions.

Methods

Thirty-six patients with benign abdominal mass lesions who underwent MR angiography with ferumoxytol also had T2-weighted HASTE imaging and fat-suppressed 3D T1-weighted imaging. The T1 and T2 enhancement characteristics of the lesions were analyzed and correlated with other imaging modalities and/or surgical findings and/or clinical follow-up.

Results

In all patients with benign masses in the liver (n = 22 patients), spleen (n = 6 patients), kidneys (n = 33 patients), adrenal (n = 2 patients) and pancreas (n = 4 patients), based on the enhancement characteristics with ferumoxytol, readers were confident of the benign nature of the lesions and their conclusions were consistent with correlative imaging, tissue sampling and follow-up. One patient with a suspicious enhancing 2F Bosniak renal cyst had renal cell carcinoma confirmed on biopsy.

Conclusion

Ferumoxytol-enhanced MRI can increase diagnostic confidence for benign abdominal masses and can increase the conspicuity of mass lesions, relative to unenhanced MRI.

Graphic Abstract
PD-1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma predicts liver-directed therapy response and bridge-to-transplant survival
Authors: Núñez Kelley G. , Sandow Tyler , Fort Daniel , Hibino Mina , Wright Paige , Cohen Ari J. , Thevenot Paul T.
Published: October 2021

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients undergo liver-directed therapy (LDT) to control tumor burden while awaiting liver transplantation with response impacting waitlist survival. In this study, we investigate the link between absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) and PD-1 expression with response to LDT and bridge-to-transplant survival.

Methods

Treatment-naïve HCC patients (n = 86) undergoing LDT were enrolled at a single center from August 2016–March 2020. Response to LDT was determined using mRECIST. Blood samples were collected on the day of LDT and at follow-up. Cells were analyzed for phenotype by flow cytometry. Outcomes were liver transplantation or tumor progression.

Results

Incomplete response to initial LDT was associated with tumor progression precluding liver transplantation (OR: 7.6, 1.7 – 33.3, P < 0.001). Univariate analysis of baseline T cell phenotypes revealed ALC (OR: 0.44, 0.24–0.85, P = 0.009) as well as intermediate expression of PD-1 on CD4 (OR: 3.3, 1.03–10.3, P = 0.034) and CD8 T cells (OR: 3.0, 0.99–8.8 P = 0.043) associated with incomplete response to LDT. Elevations in PD-1 expression were associated with increased risk of bridge-to-transplant tumor progression (HR: 3.2, 1.2–9.4). In patients successfully bridged to liver transplantation, pre-treatment peripheral PD-1 profile was associated with advanced tumor staging (P < 0.005) with 2/4 of patients with elevations in PD-1 having T3-T4 TNM staging compared to 0 with low PD-1 expression.

Conclusion

Low lymphocyte count or elevated expression of the PD-1 checkpoint inhibitor is associated with incomplete response to LDT and increased risk of bridge-to-transplant tumor progression. Patients with impaired T cell homeostasis may benefit from PD-1 immunotherapy to improve response to LDT and improve bridge-to-transplant outcomes.
Comprehensive analysis of NGS and ARMS-PCR for detecting EGFR mutations based on 4467 cases of NSCLC patients
Authors: He Changlong , Wei Chengcheng , Wen Jun , Chen Shi , Chen Ling , Wu Yue , Shen Yifan , Bai Huili , Zhang Yangli , Chen Xueping , Li Xiaosong
Published: October 2021

Background

By comparing the detection rate and type of targeted gene mutations in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) between amplification refractory mutation system PCR (ARMS-PCR) and next-generation sequencing (NGS), the characteristics and application advantages of non-small cell lung cancer detection are explained, providing a basis for clinicians to effectively select the corresponding detection methods.

Methods and materials

The cases of targeted genes for lung cancer were selected from the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from January 2016 to October 2020. A sample of 4467 cases was selected, and they were diagnosed with NSCLC by Pathological biopsy. Sample sources include surgical resection, bronchoscope biopsy, metastatic biopsy, blood, sputum, cytology of pleural effusion. Among them, 3665 cases were detected by ARMS-PCR technique, and 802 cases were detected by NGS technology. The detection rate and type of ARMS-PCR and NGS techniques for EGFR gene mutations (including exon 18, exon 19, exon 20, exon 21 and so on) in different NSCLC samples were compared, respectively.

Results

The total mutation rate of EGFR gene detected by ARMS-PCR was 47.6% while 42.4% detected by NGS which indicated that there was a significant difference between the two methods in detecting total mutation of EGFR gene (P < 0.001). In different exons, the EGFR mutation rate detected by two methods is various. The mutation rate of exon 19 by ARMS-PCR detection was evidently higher than that of NGS detection, while the mutation rate of exons 20 and 21 by ARMS-PCR detection were statistically significantly lower than that of NGS detection. Moreover, the multiple mutation rate detected by NGS was 16.3% which was much higher than the 2.7% detected by ARMS-PCR with statistically different.

Conclusion

It showed that NGS could direct the drug use for the resistant patients. However, some rare loci could be detected by NGS but the importance and directed meaning are still unknown and the number of rare mutations is rare too. Further research on new biomarkers and technique is still needed for early diagnosis, directing drug use and assessing the therapy prognosis.
Urinary excretion of amino acids and their advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) in adult kidney transplant recipients with emphasis on lysine: furosine excretion is associated with cardiovascular and all-cause mortality
Authors: Baskal Svetlana , Post Adrian , Kremer Daan , Bollenbach Alexander , Bakker Stephan J. L. , Tsikas Dimitrios
Published: October 2021

Arginine (Arg) and lysine (Lys) moieties of proteins undergo various post-translational modifications (PTM) including enzymatic NG- and Nε-methylation and non-enzymatic NG- and Nε-glycation. In a large cohort of stable kidney transplant recipients (KTR, n = 686), high plasma and low urinary concentrations of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an abundant PTM metabolite of Arg, were associated with cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Thus, the prediction of the same biomarker regarding mortality may depend on the biological sample. In another large cohort of stable KTR (n = 555), higher plasma concentrations of Nε-carboxymethyl-lysine (CML) and Nε-carboxyethyl-lysine (CEL), two advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) of Lys, were associated with higher cardiovascular mortality. Yet, the associations of urinary AGEs with mortality are unknown. In the present study, we measured 24 h urinary excretion of Lys, CML, and furosine in 630 KTR and 41 healthy kidney donors before and after donation. Our result indicate that lower urinary CML and lower furosine excretion rates are associated with higher mortality in KTR, thus resembling the associations of ADMA. Lower furosine excretion rates were also associated with higher cardiovascular mortality. The 24 h urinary excretion rate of amino acids and their metabolites decreased post-donation (varying as little as − 24% for CEL, and as much as − 62% for ADMA). For most amino acids, the excretion rate was lower in KTR than in donors pre-donation [except for S-(1-carboxyethyl)-l-cysteine (CEC) and NG-carboxyethylarginine (CEA)]. Simultaneous GC–MS measurement of free amino acids, their PTM metabolites and AGEs in urine is a non-invasive approach in kidney transplantation.
Mathematical models and heuristic algorithms for pallet building problems with practical constraints
Authors: Calzavara Gabriele , Iori Manuel , Locatelli Marco , Moreira Mayron C. O. , Silveira Tiago
Published: October 2021

In the pallet building problem, we aim at loading a given set of items into one or more pallets, by satisfying specific constraints and minimizing the number of pallets used. In this paper, we address a practical case of this problem that originates from a real-world robotized application, subject to some non-trivial operational constraints. In practice, items are grouped into families and must be packed into horizontal layers. To facilitate loading/unloading operations, items of the same type packed into the same layer should be contiguous and at least one of them should be visible from the outside. We present a formal mathematical description for layer and pallet creation subproblems and then we propose heuristic, metaheuristic, matheuristic algorithms to solve the overall problem. The performance of the algorithms is assessed through extensive computational tests on real-world instances.
Environmental management systems in the architectural, engineering and construction sectors: a roadmap to aid the delivery of the sustainable development goals
Authors: Horry Rosemary , Booth Colin A. , Mahamadu Abdul–Majeed , Manu Patrick , Georgakis Panos
Published: October 2021

Realisation of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) will provide improvements to people's lives and longevity of the planet. The architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) sectors have a potentially huge role in aiding the delivery of many SDGs; however, there appears to be a lack of research into the engagement within this sector. The leading environmental management system (EMS), ISO 14001, can enable organisations in the AEC sectors to improve their business operations, whilst minimising their impacts on the environment and improving society. Therefore, the study sets out to use institutional theory to determine the usefulness of ISO 14001 as a tool within the AEC sector and to demonstrate how the organisational benefits could facilitate the delivery of the SDGs. A stepwise PRISMA review process facilitated the compiling of academic articles and professional reports (n = 44), which enabled the creation of an inventory of the perceived benefits (n = 85) and the recognised barriers (n = 63) to implementing ISO 14001 across the AEC sectors. These barriers and benefits were confirmed by environmental practitioners as being relevant to the incorporation of an EMS. The most widely reported benefits within the AEC sectors were improving environmental performance and compliance with legislation. Lack of government pressure and lack of expertise were the most widely reported barriers, followed by cost to AEC organisations utilising an EMS. Following on from this inventory of benefits, it was possible to develop of a conceptual roadmap, which illustrates where linkages exist with the SDGs. SDG 4, 8, 12 and 13 are shown as exhibiting the most associations with the benefits. This roadmap was reviewed by AEC sector professionals who confirmed its usefulness. Therefore, it is surmised that the roadmap could aid strategic organisational sustainable planning or for organisations to demonstrate the delivery of their corporate social responsibilities.
Recent-onset atrial fibrillation: a study exploring the elements of Virchow’s triad after cardioversion
Authors: Arvanitis Panagiotis , Johansson Anna-Karin , Frick Mats , Malmborg Helena , Gerovasileiou Spyridon , Larsson Elna-Marie , Blomström-Lundqvist Carina
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Atrial fibrillation (AF) imposes an inherent risk for stroke and silent cerebral emboli, partly related to left atrial (LA) remodeling and activation of inflammatory and coagulation systems. The aim was to explore the effects of cardioversion (CV) and short-lasting AF on left atrial hemodynamics, inflammatory, coagulative and cardiac biomarkers, and the association between LA functional recovery and the presence of a prior history of AF.

Methods

Patients referred for CV within 48 h after AF onset were prospectively included. Echocardiography and blood sampling were performed immediately prior, 1–3 h after, and at 7–10 days after CV. The presence of chronic white matter hyperintensities (WMH) on magnetic resonance imaging was related to biomarker levels.

Results

Forty-three patients (84% males), aged 55±9.6 years, with median CHA2DS2-VASc score 1 (IQR 0–1) were included. The LA emptying fraction (LAEF), LA peak longitudinal strain during reservoir, conduit, and contractile phases improved significantly after CV. Only LAEF normalized within 10 days. Interleukin-6, high-sensitivity cardiac-troponin-T (hs-cTNT), N-terminal-pro-brain-natriuretic peptide, prothrombin-fragment 1+2 (PTf1+2), and fibrinogen decreased significantly after CV. There was a trend towards higher C-reactive protein, hs-cTNT, and PTf1+2 levels in patients with WMH (n=21) compared to those without (n=22). At 7–10 days, the LAEF was significantly lower in patients with a prior history of AF versus those without.

Conclusion

Although LA stunning resolved within 10 days, LAEF remained significantly lower in patients with a prior history of AF versus those without. Inflammatory and coagulative biomarkers were higher before CV, but subsided after 7–10 days, which altogether might suggest an enhanced thrombogenicity, even in these low-risk patients.
Transformation of a rolling mill aggregate to a cyber physical production system: from sensor retrofitting to machine learning
Authors: Ralph Benjamin James , Sorger Marcel , Hartl Karin , Schwarz-Gsaxner Andreas , Messner Florian , Stockinger Martin
Published: October 2021

This paper describes the transformation of a rolling mill aggregate from a stand-alone solution to a fully integrated cyber physical production system. Within this process, already existing load cells were substituted and additional inductive and magnetic displacement sensors were applied. After calibration, those were fully integrated into a six-layer digitalization architecture at the Smart Forming Lab at the Chair of Metal Forming (Montanuniversitaet Leoben). Within this framework, two front end human machine interfaces were designed, where the first one serves as a condition monitoring system during the rolling process. The second user interface visualizes the result of a resilient machine learning algorithm, which was designed using Python and is not just able to predict and adapt the resulting rolling schedule of a defined metal sheet, but also to learn from additional rolling mill schedules carried out. This algorithm was created on the basis of a black box approach, using data from more than 1900 milling steps with varying roll gap height, sheet width and friction conditions. As a result, the developed program is able to interpolate and extrapolate between these parameters as well as different initial sheet thicknesses, serving as a digital twin for data-based recommendations on schedule changes between different rolling process steps. Furthermore, via the second user interface, it is possible to visualize the influence of this parameters on the result of the milling process. As the whole layer system runs on an internal server at the university, students and other interested parties are able to access the visualization and can therefore use the environment to deepen their knowledge within the characteristics and influence of the sheet metal rolling process as well as data science and especially fundamentals of machine learning. This algorithm also serves as a basis for further integration of materials science based data for the prediction of the influence of different materials on the rolling result. To do so, the rolled specimens were also analyzed regarding the influence of the plastic strain path on their mechanical properties, including anisotropy and materials’ strength.
A series acceleration algorithm for the gamma-Pareto (type I) convolution and related functions of interest for pharmacokinetics
Authors: Wesolowski Carl A. , Alcorn Jane , Tucker Geoffrey T.
Published: October 2021

The gamma-Pareto type I convolution (GPC type I) distribution, which has a power function tail, was recently shown to describe the disposition kinetics of metformin in dogs precisely and better than sums of exponentials. However, this had very long run times and lost precision for its functional values at long times following intravenous injection. An accelerated algorithm and its computer code is now presented comprising two separate routines for short and long times and which, when applied to the dog data, completes in approximately 3 min per case. The new algorithm is a more practical research tool. Potential pharmacokinetic applications are discussed.

Graphic abstract
The centrally restricted diffusion sign on MRI for assessment of radiation necrosis in metastases treated with stereotactic radiosurgery
Authors: Hainc Nicolin , Alsafwani Noor , Gao Andrew , O’Halloran Philip J. , Kongkham Paul , Zadeh Gelareh , Gutierrez Enrique , Shultz David , Krings Timo , Alcaide-Leon Paula
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Differentiation of radiation necrosis from tumor progression in brain metastases treated with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is challenging. For this, we assessed the performance of the centrally restricted diffusion sign.

Methods

Patients with brain metastases treated with SRS who underwent a subsequent intervention (biopsy/resection) for a ring-enhancing lesion on preoperative MRI between 2000 and 2020 were included. Excluded were lesions containing increased susceptibility limiting assessment of DWI. Two neuroradiologists classified the location of the diffusion restriction with respect to the post-contrast T1 images as centrally within the ring-enhancement (the centrally restricted diffusion sign), peripherally correlating to the rim of contrast enhancement, both locations, or none. Measures of diagnostic accuracy and 95% CI were calculated for the centrally restricted diffusion sign. Cohen's kappa was calculated to identify the interobserver agreement.

Results

Fifty-nine patients (36 female; mean age 59, range 40 to 80) were included, 36 with tumor progression and 23 with radiation necrosis based on histopathology. Primary tumors included 34 lung, 12 breast, 5 melanoma, 3 colorectal, 2 esophagus, 1 head and neck, 1 endometrium, and 1 thyroid. The centrally restricted diffusion sign was seen in 19/23 radiation necrosis cases (sensitivity 83% (95% CI 63 to 93%), specificity 64% (95% CI 48 to 78%), PPV 59% (95% CI 42 to 74%), NPV 85% (95% CI 68 to 94%)) and 13/36 tumor progression cases (difference p < 0.001). Interobserver agreement was substantial, at 0.61 (95% CI 0.45 to 70.8).

Conclusion

We found a low probability of radiation necrosis in the absence of the centrally restricted diffusion sign.
Passing through resonance of the unbalanced rotor with self-balancing device
Authors: Drozdetskaya Olga , Fidlin Alexander
Published: October 2021

The slow dynamics of unbalanced rotors with a passive self-balancing system are investigated considering the interaction of the mechanical system with a limited power engine. The slow dynamics equations are obtained using the averaging technique for partially strongly damped systems. Stationary system configurations, different types of nonstationary solutions while passing through resonance, and areas of stability and attraction are investigated.
Predicting delays in service operations
Authors: von Schéele Fabian , Haftor Darek M. , Pashkevich Natallia
Published: October 2021

Delays constitute a key challenge in the management of service operations, causing substantial quality and cost issues. Delays in one service event can cause delays in another service event and so on, which creates challenges in the management of complex services. Assuming a lower-triangular matrix formalism, we develop a novel approach to modelling such chains of delays in complex service operations such as health care and software development. This approach can enable service managers to identify, understand, predict and control delays. Our research provides a novel theoretical contribution to the literature on service delays.
Classification evaluation method for Chang 7 oil group of Yanchang formation in Ordos Basin
Authors: Jianming Fan , Jian Shi , Xiaolong Wan , Qichao Xie , Chong Wang
Published: October 2021

The Chang 7 oil group in the Ordos Basin has the characteristics of a tight lithology, a low formation pressure coefficient and strong reservoir heterogeneity. To better determine reasonable developmental technical countermeasures, oiliness, seepage capacity, and compressibility evaluations are combined. Using a combination of field practice and laboratory experiments, six types of sweetness classification evaluation parameters are screened: oil saturation, longitudinal oil layer structure coefficient, average pore throat radius, gas-oil ratio, brittleness index, and minimum horizontal principal stress. By combining the relationships among variables with the initial production from directional wells, the gray correlation method is used to quantify the weights of the contributions of evaluation parameters to production. On this basis, using the difference method for the curve slope, a sweetness evaluation and classification method for the Chang 7 oil group is constructed, and it solves the difficult problem of quality difference classification for the Chang 7 oil group and provides a reference basis for the optimal design of well patterns and fracturing reconstruction parameters.
Analytical performance of the point-of-care BIOSYNEX COVID-19 Ag BSS for the detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleocapsid protein in nasopharyngeal swabs: a prospective field evaluation during the COVID-19 third wave in France
Authors: Fitoussi Frédéric , Tonen-Wolyec Serge , Awaida Natalio , Dupont Raphaël , Bélec Laurent
Published: October 2021

Background

The accuracy and reliability of rapid diagnostic tests are critical for monitoring and diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 infection in the general population. This study aimed to evaluate the analytical performance of the BIOSYNEX COVID-19 Ag BSS (Biosynex Swiss SA, Fribourg, Switzerland) antigen rapid diagnostic test (BIOSYNEX Ag-RDT), which targets the SARS-CoV-2 N-nucleocapsid protein for the diagnosis of COVID-19. The Ag-RDT was compared with a real-time RT-PCR (rtRT-PCR) as gold standard for performance measurement.

Methods

Two nasopharyngeal flocked swabs were prospectively collected simultaneously in March and April 2021 from 967 individuals aged ≥ 18 years tested for SARS-CoV-2 in two private laboratories, Paris, France.

Results

Overall, the Ag-RDT demonstrated high sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of 81.8%, 99.6%, 96.6%, and 97.5%, respectively. The agreement (97.0%), reliability assessed using Cohen’s κ-coefficient (0.87), and accuracy evaluated using Youden index (J) (81.6%) in detecting SARS-CoV-2 were high. The analytical performance of the Ag-RDT remained high when there was significant viral shedding (i.e., N gene Ct values ≤ 33 on reference RT-PCR). The sensitivity was only 55.2% in case of low or very low viral excretion (Ct > 33).

Conclusions

The BIOSYNEX Ag-RDT is a promising, potentially simple diagnostic tool, especially in symptomatic COVID-19 patients with substantial viral excretion in the nasopharynx.
Geometrically nonlinear dynamic analysis of functionally graded material plate excited by a moving load applying first-order shear deformation theory via generalized differential quadrature method
Authors: Nazari Hesam , Babaei Masoud , Kiarasi Faraz , Asemi Kamran
Published: October 2021

In this study, we present a numerical solution for geometrically nonlinear dynamic analysis of functionally graded material rectangular plates excited to a moving load based on first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT) for the first time. To derive the governing equations of motion, Hamilton’s principle, nonlinear Von Karman assumptions and FSDT are used. Finally, the governing equations of motion are solved by employing the generalized differential quadratic method as a numerical solution. Natural frequencies, dynamic bending behavior and stresses of the plate for linear and nonlinear type of geometrically strain–displacement relations and different factors, including the magnitude and velocity of moving load, length ratio, power law exponent and various edge conditions are obtained and compared.

Article highlights

Developing generalized differential quadrature method (GDQM) solution based on FSDT for dynamic analysis of FGM plate excited by a moving load for the first time.

Comparison of linear and nonlinear dynamic response of plate by considering Von-Karman assumption.

Observing considerable difference between linear and nonlinear results
Global cognitive dysfunction and β-amyloid neuropathology in late-life and treatment-resistant major depression
Authors: Li Cheng-Ta , Fuh Jong-Ling , Yang Bang-Hung , Hong Chen-Ji , Chang Chi-Wei , Tu Pei-Chi , Jeng Jia-Shyun , Chen Mu-Hong , Tsai Shih-Jen , Bai Ya-Mei , Su Tung-Ping , Lee Hsuan , Huang Wen-Sheng
Published: October 2021

Background

Cognitive impairment is common in late-life depression, which may increase Alzheimer disease (AD) risk. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether late-life major depressive disorder (MDD) has worse cognition and increases the characteristic AD neuropathology. Furthermore, we carried out a comparison between treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and non-TRD. We hypothesized that patients with late-life depression and TRD may have increased β-amyloid (Aβ) deposits in brain regions responsible for global cognition.

Methods

We recruited 81 subjects, including 54 MDD patients (27 TRD and 27 non-TRD) and 27 matched healthy controls (HCs). Neurocognitive tasks were examined, including Mini-Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment to detect global cognitive functions. PET with Pittsburgh compound-B and fluorodeoxyglucose were used to capture brain Aβ pathology and glucose use, respectively, in some patients.

Results

MDD patients performed worse in Montreal Cognitive Assessment (p = 0.003) and had more Aβ deposits than HCs across the brain (family-wise error-corrected p < 0.001), with the most significant finding in the left middle frontal gyrus. Significant negative correlations between global cognition and prefrontal Aβ deposits existed in MDD patients, whereas positive correlations were noted in HCs. TRD patients had significantly more deposits in the left-sided brain regions (corrected p < 0.001). The findings were not explained by APOE genotypes. No between-group fluorodeoxyglucose difference was detected.

Conclusions

Late-life depression, particularly TRD, had increased brain Aβ deposits and showed vulnerability to Aβ deposits. A detrimental role of Aβ deposits in global cognition in patients with late-onset or non-late-onset MDD supported the theory that late-life MDD could be a risk factor for AD.