bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An electronic textile embedded smart cementitious composite
Authors: Irfan Muhammad S. , Ali Muhammad A. , Khan Kamran A. , Umer Rehan , Kanellopoulos Antonios , Abdul Samad Yarjan
Published: November 2021

Structural health monitoring (SHM) using self‐sensing cement‐based materials has been reported before, where nano‐fillers have been incorporated in cementitious matrices as functional sensing elements. A percolation threshold is always required in order for conductive nano‐fillers modified concrete to be useful for SHM. Nonetheless, the best pressure/strain sensitivity results achieved for any self‐sensing cementitious matrix are <0.01 MPa−1. In this work, we introduce for the first‐time novel partially reduced graphene oxide based electronic textile (e‐textile) embedded in plain and as well as in polymer‐binder‐modified cementitious matrix for SHM applications. These e‐textile embedded cementitious composites are independent of any percolation threshold due to the interconnected fabric inside the host matrix. The piezo‐resistive response was measured by applying direct and cyclic compressive loads (ranging from 0.10 to 3.90 MPa). A pressure sensitivity of 1.50 MPa−1 and an ultra‐high gauge factor of 2000 was obtained for the system of the self‐sensing cementitious structure with embedded e‐textiles. The sensitivity of this new system with embedded e‐textile is an order of magnitude higher than the state‐of‐the‐art nanoparticle based self‐sensing cementitious composites. The composites showed mechanical stability and functional durability over long‐term cyclic compression tests of 1000 cycles. Additionally, a two time‐constant model was used to validate the experimental results on decay response of the e‐textile embedded composites.
Biodiesel production from camelina oil: Present status and future perspectives
Authors: Stamenković Olivera S. , Gautam Kshipra , Singla‐Pareek Sneh L. , Dhankher Om P. , Djalović Ivica G. , Kostić Milan D. , Mitrović Petar M. , Pareek Ashwani , Veljković Vlada B.
Published: November 2021

Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz is an oilseed crop with favorable potentials for biodiesel production, such as the high plant yield, high oil content in the seed, high net energy ratio, and low oil production cost. This review paper deals with the present state and perspectives of biodiesel production from camelina oil. First, important issues of camelina seed pretreatment and biodiesel production are reviewed. Emphasis is given to different biodiesel technologies that have been used so far worldwide, the economic assessment of the camelina oil biodiesel (COB) production, the camelina‐based biorefineries for the integrated biodiesel production, the COB life cycle analysis, and impact human health and ecosystem. Finally, the perspectives of COB production from the techno‐economic and especially genetic engineering points of view are discussed.
Market uncertainty and sentiment around USDA announcements
Authors: Cao An N. Q. , Robe Michel A.
Published: November 2021

We investigate forward‐looking commodity price volatility expectations (proxied by option‐implied volatilities or IVols) around scheduled US Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports. We show that corn and soybean IVols are significantly lower for several trading days after a report. The IVol response to a release depends on agricultural market experts' disagreement and sentiment before the USDA report, and on the extent to which the USDA information surprises the market. Whereas commodity IVols are generally positively related to financial‐market sentiment and macroeconomic uncertainty (jointly captured by the volatility index [VIX]), this comovement breaks down on report days—with the VIX and commodity IVols moving in opposite directions.
Keteniminium Induced Dienone‐Phenol Rearrangement and Intramolecular 6‐endo‐dig Cyclization Cascade of Yne‐Dienone
Authors: Mallick Rajendra K. , Dutta Shubham , Protim Gogoi Manash , Sahoo Akhila K.
Published: November 2021

Demonstrated herein is a keteniminium triggered dienone‐phenol rearrangement of yne‐dienone and a regioselective intramolecular 6‐endo‐dig cyclization of aryl‐propargyl ether cascade for the synthesis of 2H‐chromene bearing ketene‐N,O‐acetals. The gold‐catalyst and ynamide combination forms a keteniminium species in situ and makes the dienone‐phenol rearrangement viable with 1,2‐migration of common alkyl substituents (methyl and ethyl) and phenyl group. The transformation tolerates common functional groups and N‐sulfonyl protecting groups in ynamides exhibiting broad scope. The transformation proceeds through intramolecular proton transfer to the vinylic gold species; deuterium scrambling study supports this observation.
Effects of repeated blood donation on iron status of blood donors in Zimbabwe: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Vhanda Donald , Chinowaita Frank , Nkomo Sisodwa , Timire Collins , Kouamou Vinie
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Iron deficiency is a major complication of repeated blood donation. However, most of the blood screening methods employed by blood collection agents do not include iron status markers, leading to possible subclinical iron deficiency. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of repeated blood donation on the iron status of this vulnerable population in Zimbabwe.

Methods

All donors were categorized into groups based on number of donations made in the previous 2‐year period prior to enrolment into the study. Serum iron, total iron‐binding capacity (TIBC), and ferritin were analyzed on automated chemistry analyzers while transferrin saturation (TSAT) was calculated. The Wilcoxon rank‐sum and ANOVA tests were used to assess the variation of iron profiles by gender and frequency of donations. All data analysis was performed using Stata software v13.

Results

Study participants included 170 repeat donors and 20 first‐time blood donors. The median (IQR) age was 23 (19‐27) years, while the majority were males 57% (n = 109/190). The overall prevalence of iron deficiency and reduced iron stores was 12.6% and 38.9%, respectively. There were statistically significant differences between males and females in all the iron status parameters (P < .05). TIBC increased with number of donations, while iron, ferritin, and TSAT decreased with increased number of donations.

Conclusion

A high proportion of blood donors had iron deficiency despite being eligible to donate. Repeated blood donation may lead to substantial reduction in iron stores among blood donors. Inclusion of iron biochemical markers may enhance proper screening and monitoring of blood donors in Zimbabwe to prevent development of iron deficiency anemia.
Respiratory syncytial virus‐associated deaths in the United States according to death certificate data, 2005 to 2016
Authors: Prill Mila M. , Langley Gayle E. , Winn Amber , Gerber Susan I.
Published: November 2021

Background and Aims

In the United States, respiratory infections due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cause an estimated 57 000 hospitalizations annually among children aged <5 years and 177 000 hospitalizations among adults aged ≥65 years. RSV‐associated deaths are less well described. It will be important to establish a baseline of RSV‐coded deaths prior to the introduction of vaccines, immunoprophylaxis products, and anti‐viral therapies currently in development.

Methods

US death certificate data for all ages from 2005 through 2016 were compiled through the National Center for Health Statistics. Deaths with International Classification of Diseases codes of J12.1 (RSV‐pneumonia), J20.5 (RSV‐bronchitis), or J21.0 (RSV‐bronchiolitis) assigned as either the underlying cause of death or a contributing cause of death were considered “RSV‐associated” for this analysis.

Results

Among 30.5 million deaths, 1001 (.003%) were assigned an RSV‐associated cause of death as follows: 697 (69.6%) RSV‐pneumonia, 277 (27.7%) RSV‐bronchiolitis, 17 (1.7%) RSV‐bronchitis, and 10 (1.0%) with multiple RSV‐associated causes. Most deaths were among children <5 (47.8%) and adults ≥50 (40.4%) years of age. Almost half (46.8%) had an RSV‐associated cause as the primary underlying cause of death. The average annual number of RSV‐associated deaths did not significantly change among those aged <5 and 5 to 49 years. However, RSV‐pneumonia deaths among adults aged ≥50 years increased from 17.6 in 2005 to 2012 to 57.3 in 2013 to 2016 (P value <.0001).

Conclusions

From 2005 to 2016, the number of recorded RSV‐associated deaths increased, primarily due to greater RSV‐associated pneumonia deaths among older adults since 2013. The reasons for this increase are not clear but likely reflect increased testing for RSV among adults. The number of RSV‐associated deaths according to death certificates compared with estimates derived from active, laboratory‐confirmed surveillance and models using hospital administrative data suggests that counts from death certificates are a large underestimation, particularly among adults.
Visualizing minute details in light‐sheet and confocal microscopy data by combining 3D rolling ball filtering and deconvolution
Authors: Becker Klaus , Saghafi Saiedeh , Pende Marko , Hahn Christian , Dodt Hans Ulrich
Published: November 2021

We developed an open‐source deconvolution software that stunningly increases the visibility of minute details, as for example, neurons or nerve fibers in light‐sheet microscopy or confocal microscopy data by combining rolling ball background subtraction in three directions with deconvolution using a synthetic or measured point spread function. Via automatic block‐wise processing image stacks of virtually unlimited size can be deconvolved even on small computers with 8 or 16 GB RAM. By parallelization and optional GPU‐acceleration, the software works with high speed: On a PC equipped with a state‐of‐the‐art NVidia graphic board a three dimensional (3D)‐stack of about 1 billion voxels can be deconvolved within 5 to 10 minutes. The implemented variation of the Richardson‐Lucy deconvolution algorithm preserves the photogrammetry of the image data by using flux‐preserving regularization, an approach that to our knowledge has not been applied for deconvolving microscopy data before.
Choline chloride modulates learning, memory, and synaptic plasticity impairments in maternally separated adolescent male rats
Authors: Shahraki Sarieh , Esmaeilpour Khadijeh , Shabani Mohammad , Sepehri Gholamreza , Rajizadeh Mohammad Amin , Maneshian Marzieh , Joushi Sara , Sheibani Vahid
Published: November 2021

Maternal separation (MS) is a model to induce permanent alternations in the central nervous system (CNS) and is associated with increased levels of anxiety and cognitive deficiencies. Since methyl donor choline (Ch) has been shown to play a significant role in learning and memory and enhance synaptic plasticity, the authors hypothesized that Ch may attenuate MS‐induced impairments in synaptic plasticity and cognitive performance. Rat pups underwent an MS protocol for 180 min/day from postnatal day (PND) 1 to 21. Ch was administered subcutaneously (100 mg/kg, 21 days) to the choline chloride and MS + choline chloride groups from PND 29 to 49. Anxiety‐like behaviour, recognition memory, and spatial and passive avoidance learning and memory were measured in the adolescent rats. In addition, evoked field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSP) were recorded from the CA1 region of the hippocampus. MS induced higher anxiety‐like behaviour in the animals. It also impaired learning and memory. However, MS had no effect on locomotor activity. Subcutaneous administration of Ch attenuated MS‐induced cognitive deficits and enhanced the learning and memory of MS rats. Ch also decreased anxiety‐like behaviour in the open‐field test. The present results showed that long‐term potentiation (LTP) was induced in all groups except MS and MS + saline animals. However, Ch injection induced LTP and had maintenance in MS + choline chloride, but it was not statistically significant compared with the MS group. In summary, the present findings indicate that MS can interfere with normal animal's cognition and subcutaneous of Ch may be considered an appropriate therapeutic strategy for promoting cognitive dysfunctions in MS animals.
Dried blood spots analysis of 6β‐hydroxycortisol and cortisol using liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry for calculating 6β‐hydroxycortisol to cortisol ratio
Authors: Hirano Ryohei , Yokokawa Akitomo , Furihata Tomomi , Shibasaki Hiromi
Published: November 2021

Dried blood spot (DBS) sampling is a minimally invasive method used to collect blood samples of any population for personalized medicine. We aimed to develop a sensitive and reliable analytical method for measuring 6β‐hydroxycortisol (6β‐OHF) and cortisol concentrations in DBS by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry so as to utilize DBS as a less invasive blood sampling method for calculating the ratio of 6β‐OHF/cortisol. The lower limits of quantification obtained using four DBS were 1.08 pg/50 μl for 6β‐OHF and 1.01 pg/50 μl for cortisol. The 6β‐OHF and cortisol in DBS were stable for 28 days at room temperature. The intraday and interday accuracy and precision of the method was <12%. Additionally, the 6β‐OHF and cortisol in DBS were measured before, during, and after 3 days of clarithromycin administration to two of the subjects. Then, their concentration was compared in the plasma and whole blood collected simultaneously. The concentrations of 6β‐OHF and cortisol in four DBS ranged from 0.007 to 0.079 ng/50 μl and from 1.15 to 6.66 ng/50 μl, respectively. The 6β‐OHF/cortisol ratio in DBS decreased by approximately 50% on administering clarithromycin compared with that before the administration of clarithromycin. The 6β‐OHF/cortisol ratio in DBS also showed a strong correlation with that in whole blood (r = 0.9694) and plasma (r = 0.9383). This method provides high accuracy and precision for measuring 6β‐OHF and cortisol in DBS. It also allows the use of DBS instead of plasma for calculating the 6β‐OHF/cortisol ratio. The 6β‐OHF/cortisol ratio could be an index of CYP3A activity in clinical setting.
Age‐ and sex‐specific differences in ACL and ACL bundle size during adolescent growth
Authors: Cone Stephanie G. , Barnes Ryan H. , Howe Danielle , Fordham Lynn A. , Fisher Matthew B. , Spang Jeffrey T.
Published: November 2021

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are increasingly common in adolescents, and injuries in this age‐group are associated with many unique challenges. Recent large animal studies suggest that the size and function of the major bundles of the ACL change differently throughout skeletal growth. To better aid clinical treatment of pediatric partial ACL tears and better predict outcomes from age‐specific treatments, there is a need to measure changes in ACL bundle size in humans during growth. As such, the objective of this study was to compare changes in the length and cross‐sectional area (CSA) of the ACL and its primary bundles in adolescent human subjects. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were analyzed to determine the visibility and integrity of the ACL and its anteromedial and posterolateral bundles. MRI scans were considered from a retrospective database of subjects ranging from 10 to 18 years of age. The ACL and its anteromedial and posterolateral bundles were segmented and reconstructed into 3D models, and length and CSA were calculated. Total ACL length and CSA were greater in males compared with females, with a statistically significant interaction between age and sex for CSA. Sex had a significant effect on the CSA of both bundles. These sex‐dependent differences emerge with moderate to large effect sizes (range:d = 0.50 tod = 1.23) beginning around 13 years of age. Along with ACL bundle structure–function relationships previously established in preclinical animal models, these findings may point toward biomechanical changes in the adolescent human ACL.
Private jobs and collective employment in China
Authors: Atherton Andrew , Li Zheng , Wu Zhongmin , Teng Weili
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this paper is to understand the dynamics of private sector employment in China in recent years and to provide insight into the effects private sector employment has had on internal variations in growth and development. Our findings indicate a divergence in employment sources in cities and the countryside, a growing spatial divide between areas that rely on state‐owned enterprises for employment, and places where the private sector is an increasingly important employer. We conclude that private enterprises are essential drivers of prosperity in urban China but are less significant for employment or growth in rural areas.
The Impact of Uterine Incision Closure Techniques on Post‐cesarean Delivery Niche Formation and Size
Authors: Antoine Clarel , Meyer Jessica A. , Silverstein Jenna S. , Alexander Jameshisa , Oh Cheongeun , Timor‐Tritsch Ilan E.
Published: November 2021

OBJECTIVE

To compare the prevalence and size of residual niche in the nongravid uterus following Cesarean delivery (CD) with different hysterotomy closure techniques (HCTs).

METHODS

Saline infusion sonohysterogram (SIS) was performed in women after one prior CD, documenting the presence or absence of a postoperative niche and measuring its depth, width, length, and residual myometrial thickness. Women were grouped by HCT: Technique A (endometrium‐free) and Technique B (routine non‐endometrium‐free). The primary outcome was the prevalence of a clinically significant niche, defined as a depth of >2 mm. HCT groups were compared using χ2, T‐test (ANOVA), and analyzed using logistic regression and two‐sided test (P < .05).

RESULTS

Forty‐five women had SIS performed, 25 and 20 via Technique A and B, respectively. Technique groups varied by average interval time from CD to SIS (13.6 versus 74.5 months, P = 0.006) but were otherwise similar. Twenty niches were diagnosed, 85% of which were clinically significant, including five following Technique A, nine following Technique B with double‐layer closure, and three following Technique B with single‐layer (P = .018). The average niche depth was 2.4 mm and 4.9 mm among the two‐layer subgroups following Techniques A and B, respectively (P = .005). A clinically significant niche development was six times higher with Technique B when compared to Technique A (OR 6.0, 95% CI 1.6–22.6, P = .008); this significance persisted after controlling for SIS interval on multivariate analysis (OR 4.4, 95% CI 1.1–18.3, P = .04). The average niche depth was 5.7 ± 2.9 mm following Technique B with single‐layer.

CONCLUSION

Hysterotomy closure techniques determine the prevalence of post‐Cesarean delivery niche formation and size. Exclusion of the endometrium at uterine closure reduces the development of significant scar defects.
Cowpeas: Nutritional profile, processing methods and products—A review
Authors: Affrifah Nicole Sharon , Phillips R. Dixon , Saalia Firibu Kwesi
Published: November 2021

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) is an important pulse crop grown in sub‐Saharan Africa and in parts of Asia and the Americas. It is a major starchy legume consumed widely in sub‐Saharan Africa as an affordable source of nutrients including protein. The global production of cowpeas has increased 2.7‐folds since 2000. Cowpea is a nutritious food source, rich in protein, digestible and nondigestible carbohydrates, and potassium with very low lipids and sodium content. Cowpeas also contain a number of essential amino acids, and polyphenols with antioxidant activity. The main objectives of this review are to provide information on the nutritional composition of cowpeas, processing techniques used, and consequent effect on nutritional and sensory quality. It focuses on specific processing techniques including traditional processes and the production of cowpea‐based ingredients for potential industrial applications. Additionally, an extensive review of typical foods made from cowpeas is included. Recent developments in cowpea research, notably the use of novel processes and product applications, have also been reviewed.
Ion scanning or ion trapping: Why not both?
Authors: Raffaelli Andrea , Saba Alessandro
Published: November 2021

The present contribution describes analogies and differences between the quadrupolar ion trap (QIT) and the quadrupole mass analyzers, shows the potentialities of their combination in a single instrument and presents a review of applications of such a technology in different fields. The first section describes the quadrupole mass filter (QMF), outlining its principles of operation and the ion sorting procedure according to the use of oscillating electric fields inducing stable trajectories to the ions allowing them to reach the detector. Multiple quadrupole systems (normally triple quadrupoles) are then explained, showing their use in tandem mass spectrometry in space experiments (MS/MS‐in‐space). QIT principles of operation are then examined, pointing out that in this case the use of the same combination of oscillating electric fields takes advantage of unstable ion trajectories for their sorting. Substantially, analogies and differences between QMF and QIT come out, which consist in the fact that QMF is a scanning mass analyzer, whereas QIT is a sequential mass analyzer. In addition, the section underlines that QIT is capable to perform tandem mass spectrometry in time experiments (MS/MS‐in‐time). Later, the possibility to use a quadrupole as a trapping system with a prevailing dimension (linear ion trap [LIT]) is taken into consideration, and the possibility to combine both QMF and LIT in a single instrument, a QTrap mass spectrometer, is illustrated. In this frame, a lot more experiment types are possible with respect to both standalone triple quadrupoles and LIT, and they are described as well. Several combinations of these QTrap features can be used in information dependent acquisition (IDA) mode, allowing the high versatility of this instrumental configuration. The second section deals with a review of applications in different fields. These are organized by kind of QTrap and IDA features and cover different topics in biological, medical, agrochemical, nutritional and environmental fields.
Media environment, venture capital, and technological innovation: Evidence from China
Authors: Ma Yongyuan , Shen Ao , Zhu Qingyuan , Wang Peng
Published: November 2021

Informed by institutional embeddedness perspective, we examine how media environment as an informal institutional arrangement shapes technological innovation. Through an empirical examination of the panel data of 30 Chinese provinces from 2009 to 2019, we document a positive relationship between media environment and venture capital (VC). Our results also indicate VC positively affects technological innovation and media environment influences technological innovation through VC. Besides, we find subnational institutional development serves as a facilitator, while subnational state‐owned economy development is a burden, in influencing the positive linkage between VC and technological innovation. Finally, we provide valuable insights for technological innovation.
Estimating present‐day European seasonal mean rainfall by combining historical data and climate model simulations, for risk assessment
Authors: Jewson Stephen , Comola Francesco , Parkes Ben
Published: November 2021

Building risk models for present‐day climate requires an understanding of recent climate trends. To estimate the climate change driven component of recent rainfall trends in Europe, we introduce a novel methodology for combining trend estimates from observed data, a climate model ensemble and a default trend of zero. The methodology weights the different trend estimates based on their uncertainty and consistency with observations. We find that the methodology puts low weights on the observational estimates of recent rainfall trends because they are so uncertain and puts higher weights on the trends estimated using the climate model ensemble mean and the default trend of zero. This demonstrates the value of ensemble simulations of past climate for this application. The methodology we describe establishes a probabilistic framework for estimating uncertain climate change trends based on combining estimates from observed data and climate models and could be applied in many other situations.
Lung‐CRNet: A convolutional recurrent neural network for lung 4DCT image registration
Authors: Lu Jiayi , Jin Renchao , Song Enmin , Ma Guangzhi , Wang Manyang
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Deformable image registration (DIR) of lung four‐dimensional computed tomography (4DCT) plays a vital role in a wide range of clinical applications. Most of the existing deep learning–based lung 4DCT DIR methods focus on pairwise registration which aims to register two images with large deformation. However, the temporal continuities of deformation fields between phases are ignored. This paper proposes a fast and accurate deep learning–based lung 4DCT DIR approach that leverages the temporal component of 4DCT images.

Methods

We present Lung‐CRNet, an end‐to‐end convolutional recurrent registration neural network for lung 4DCT images and reformulate 4DCT DIR as a spatiotemporal sequence predicting problem in which the input is a sequence of three‐dimensional computed tomography images from the inspiratory phase to the expiratory phase in a respiratory cycle. The first phase in the sequence is selected as the only reference image and the rest as moving images. Multiple convolutional gated recurrent units (ConvGRUs) are stacked to capture the temporal clues between images. The proposed network is trained in an unsupervised way using a spatial transformer layer. During inference, Lung‐CRNet is able to yield the respective displacement field for each reference‐moving image pair in the input sequence.

Results

We have trained the proposed network using a publicly available lung 4DCT dataset and evaluated performance on the widely used the DIR‐Lab dataset. The mean and standard deviation of target registration error are 1.56 1.05 mm on the DIR‐Lab dataset. The computation time for each forward prediction is less than 1 s on average.

Conclusions

The proposed Lung‐CRNet is comparable to the existing state‐of‐the‐art deep learning‐based 4DCT DIR methods in both accuracy and speed. Additionally, the architecture of Lung‐CRNet can be generalized to suit other groupwise registration tasks which align multiple images simultaneously.
Quasiperiodic Van der Waals Heterostructures of Graphene and Hexagonal Boron Nitride
Authors: Bhandary Sumanta , Haldar Soumyajyoti , Sanyal Biplab
Published: November 2021

Advancement toward opening a bandgap at the Dirac point induced by symmetry breaking paved the way to realize 2D heterostructures with graphene and hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN). An alternate arrangement of graphene and h‐BN layers in a 3D stacking can tune the bandgaps of these composites depending on the position of B and N atoms with respect to C atoms of graphene. Herein, a unique possibility of arranging graphene and h‐BN atomic layers in a quasiperiodic Fibonacci sequence to study the possibilities of controlling the electronic properties of these heterostructures is explored. Density functional theory calculations combined with van der Waals corrections reveal that these quasiperiodic heterostructures are more stable than normal periodic stacking of monolayers of graphene and h‐BN. Moreover, for certain arrangements of atomic layers, sizeable bandgaps can be obtained.
(Poly)phenol toxicity in vivo following oral administration: A targeted narrative review of (poly)phenols from green tea, grape, and anthocyanin‐rich extracts
Authors: Cladis Dennis P. , Weaver Connie M. , Ferruzzi Mario G.
Published: November 2021

Fruit‐ and vegetable‐derived (poly)phenols are secondary plant metabolites that may have beneficial effects on human health when consumed regularly. Recent years have seen rapid growth in both consumer demand for and research interest in (poly)phenol‐rich dietary supplements, natural colorants, and functional foods. As these products continue to enter the marketplace and (poly)phenol intake patterns change from traditional food products to these sources, attention must be paid to the potential for toxicity from consuming elevated doses of (poly)phenols. To date, much remains unknown regarding the safety of high doses of (poly)phenols, especially in vivo. In this targeted narrative review, we summarize evidence from in vivo investigations of (poly)phenol toxicity after oral administration of green tea extracts, grape‐derived phenolics, and anthocyanin‐rich extracts. There is limited evidence of overt toxicity from oral ingestion of these (poly)phenol‐rich sources, though more research on the safety of high doses—as well as defining what constitutes a “high” dose of both individual and complex mixtures of (poly)phenols—is needed before these observations can be used to create dietary guidance for consumers.
Limitations of clinical trial sample size estimate by subtraction of two measurements
Authors: Chen Kewei , Guo Xiaojuan , Pan Rong , Xiong Chengjie , Harvey Danielle J. , Chen Yinghua , Yao Li , Su Yi , Reiman Eric M. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: November 2021

In planning randomized clinical trials (RCTs) for diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), researchers frequently rely on the use of existing data obtained from only two time points to estimate sample size via the subtraction of baseline from follow‐up measurements in each subject. However, the inadequacy of this method has not been reported. The aim of this study is to discuss the limitation of sample size estimation based on the subtraction of available data from only two time points for RCTs. Mathematical equations are derived to demonstrate the condition under which the obtained data pairs with variable time intervals could be used to adequately estimate sample size. The MRI‐based hippocampal volume measurements from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) and Monte Carlo simulations (MCS) were used to illustrate the existing bias and variability of estimates. MCS results support the theoretically derived condition under which the subtraction approach may work. MCS also show the systematically under‐ or over‐estimated sample sizes by up to 32.27 bias. Not used properly, such subtraction approach outputs the same sample size regardless of trial durations partly due to the way measurement errors are handled. Estimating sample size by subtracting two measurements should be treated with caution. Such estimates can be biased, the magnitude of which depends on the planned RCT duration. To estimate sample sizes, we recommend using more than two measurements and more comprehensive approaches such as linear mixed effect models.
Augmenting zero trust architecture to endpoints using blockchain: A state‐of‐the‐art review
Authors: Alevizos Lampis , Ta Vinh Thong , Hashem Eiza Max
Published: November 2021

With the purpose of defending against lateral movement in today's borderless networks, zero trust architecture (ZTA) adoption is gaining momentum. With a full‐scale ZTA implementation, it is unlikely that adversaries will be able to spread through the network starting from a compromised endpoint. However, the already authenticated and authorized session of a compromised endpoint can be leveraged to carry out limited, though malicious, activities ultimately rendering the endpoints the Achilles heel of ZTA. To effectively detect such attacks, distributed collaborative intrusion detection systems with an attack scenario‐based approach have been developed. Nonetheless, advanced persistent threats have demonstrated their ability to bypass this approach with a high success ratio. As a result, adversaries can pass undetected or potentially alter the detection logging mechanisms to achieve a stealthy presence. Recently, blockchain technology has demonstrated solid use cases in the cyber security domain. In this paper, motivated by the convergence of ZTA and blockchain‐based intrusion detection and prevention, we examine how ZTA can be augmented onto endpoints. Namely, we perform a state‐of‐the‐art review of ZTA models, real‐world architectures with a focus on endpoints, and blockchain‐based intrusion detection systems. We discuss the potential of blockchain's immutability fortifying the detection process and identify open challenges as well as potential solutions and future directions.
Hot needles can confirm accurate lesion sampling intraoperatively using [18F]PSMA-1007 PET/CT-guided biopsy in patients with suspected prostate cancer
Authors: Ferraro Daniela A. , Laudicella Riccardo , Zeimpekis Konstantinos , Mebert Iliana , Müller Julian , Maurer Alexander , Grünig Hannes , Donati Olivio , Sapienza Marcelo T. , Rueschoff Jan H. , Rupp Niels , Eberli Daniel , Burger Irene A.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted PET is increasingly used for staging prostate cancer (PCa) with high accuracy to detect significant PCa (sigPCa). [68 Ga]PSMA-11 PET/MRI-guided biopsy showed promising results but also persisting limitation of sampling error, due to impaired image fusion. We aimed to assess the possibility of intraoperative quantification of [18F]PSMA-1007 PET/CT uptake in core biopsies as an instant confirmation for accurate lesion sampling.

Methods

In this IRB-approved, prospective, proof-of-concept study, we included five consecutive patients with suspected PCa. All underwent [18F]PSMA-1007 PET/CT scans followed by immediate PET/CT-guided and saturation template biopsy (3.1 ± 0.3 h after PET). The activity in biopsy cores was measured as counts per minute (cpm) in a gamma spectrometer. Pearson’s test was used to correlate counts with histopathology (WHO/ISUP), tumor length, and membranous PSMA expression on immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results

In 43 of 113 needles, PCa was present. The mean cpm was overall significantly higher in needles with PCa (263 ± 396 cpm) compared to needles without PCa (73 ± 44 cpm, p < 0.001). In one patient with moderate PSMA uptake (SUVmax 8.7), 13 out of 24 needles had increased counts (100–200 cpm) but only signs of inflammation and PSMA expression in benign glands on IHC. Excluding this case, ROC analysis resulted in an AUC of 0.81, with an optimal cut-off to confirm PCa at 75 cpm (sens/spec of 65.1%/87%). In all 4 patients with PCa, the first or second PSMA PET-guided needle was positive for sigPCa with high counts (156–2079 cpm).

Conclusions

[18F]PSMA-1007 uptake in PCa can be used to confirm accurate lesion sampling of the dominant tumor intraoperatively. This technique could improve confidence in imaging-based biopsy guidance and reduce the need for saturation biopsy.

Trial registration number

NCT03187990, 15/06/2017.
Aortic root diameter is associated with HLA-B27: identifying the patient with ankylosing spondylitis at risk for aortic valve regurgitation
Authors: Baniaamam M. , Heslinga S. C. , Konings T. C. , Handoko M. L. , Kamp O. , van Halm V. P. , van der Horst-Bruinsma I. E. , Nurmohamed M. T.
Published: November 2021

To assess the association between the aortic root diameter in HLA-B27 positive (+) and HLA-B27 negative (−) ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients from the CARDAS cohort. The CARDAS study is a cross-sectional study in AS patients between 50 and 75 years who were recruited from a large rheumatology outpatient clinic. Patients underwent cardiovascular screening including echocardiography, with 2D, spectral, and color flow Doppler measurements. The aortic root was measured at sinuses of Valsalva during diastole. The aortic root diameter was adjusted for body surface area (BSA) (aortic root index, cm/m2). 193 Consecutive AS patients were included of whom 158 (82%) were HLA-B27 positive. The aortic root index was significantly higher in HLA-B27 + patients compared to HLA-B27− patients, respectively, 1.76 cm ± 0.21 vs. 1.64 cm ± 0.14, p < 0.001. No difference was seen in the prevalence of aortic valve regurgitation (AVR), p = 0.8. Regression analysis showed a significant association between HLA-B27 and aortic root index corrected for age, sex and cardiovascular risk factors (β 0.091, 95% CI 0.015–0.168, p = 0.02). Especially, male HLA-B27 + patients had a significantly increased aortic root index compared to male HLA-B27− AS patients, respectively, 1.76 cm (1.63–1.88) and 1.59 cm (1.53–1.68), p < 0.001. We found an increased aortic root index in elderly HLA-B27 + AS patients compared to HLA-B27− AS patients, especially in male patients. No difference was seen in the prevalence of AVR. However, as AVR can be progressive, echocardiographic monitoring in elderly male HLA-B27 + AS might be considered.
Acute symptomatic seizures in the emergency room: predictors and characteristics
Authors: Reinecke Lili C. S. , Doerrfuss Jakob I. , Kowski Alexander B. , Holtkamp Martin
Published: November 2021

Background

When treating patients with epileptic seizures in the emergency room (ER), it is of paramount importance to rapidly assess whether the seizure was acute symptomatic or unprovoked as the former points to a potentially life-threatening underlying condition. In this study, we seek to identify predictors and analyze characteristics of acute symptomatic seizures (ASS).

Methods

Data from patients presenting with seizures to highly frequented ERs of two sites of a university hospital were analyzed retrospectively. Seizures were classified as acute symptomatic or unprovoked according to definitions of the International League Against Epilepsy. Univariate and multivariate analysis were conducted to identify predictors; furthermore, characteristics of ASS were assessed.

Results

Finally, 695 patients were included, 24.5% presented with ASS. Variables independently associated with ASS comprised male sex (OR 3.173, 95% CI 1.972–5.104), no prior diagnosis of epilepsy (OR 11.235, 95% CI 7.195–17.537), and bilateral/generalized tonic–clonic seizure semiology (OR 2.982, 95% CI 1.172–7.588). Alcohol withdrawal was the most common cause of ASS (74.1%), with hemorrhagic stroke being the second most prevalent etiology. Neuroimaging was performed more often in patients with the final diagnosis of ASS than in those with unprovoked seizures (82.9% vs. 67.2%, p < 0.001). Patients with ASS were more likely to receive acute antiseizure medication in the ER (55.9% vs. 30.3%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In one quarter of patients presenting to the ER after an epileptic fit, the seizure had an acute symptomatic genesis. The independently associated variables may help to early identify ASS and initiate management of the underlying condition.
Trends in mortality after intensive care of patients with traumatic brain injury in Finland from 2003 to 2019: a Finnish Intensive Care Consortium study
Authors: Luostarinen Teemu , Vehviläinen Juho , Lindfors Matias , Reinikainen Matti , Bendel Stepani , Laitio Ruut , Hoppu Sanna , Ala-Kokko Tero , Skrifvars Markus , Raj Rahul
Published: November 2021

Background

Several studies have suggested no change in the outcome of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) treated in intensive care units (ICUs). This is mainly due to the shift in TBI epidemiology toward older and sicker patients. In Finland, the share of the population aged 65 years and over has increased the most in Europe during the last decade. We aimed to assess changes in 12-month and hospital mortality of patients with TBI treated in the ICU in Finland.

Methods

We used a national benchmarking ICU database (Finnish Intensive Care Consortium) to study adult patients who had been treated for TBI in four tertiary ICUs in Finland during 2003–2019. We divided admission years into quartiles and used multivariable logistic regression analysis, adjusted for case-mix, to assess the association between admission year and mortality.

Results

A total of 4535 patients were included. Between 2003–2007 and 2016–2019, the patient median age increased from 54 to 62 years, the share of patients having significant comorbidity increased from 8 to 11%, and patients being dependent on help in activities of daily living increased from 7 to 15%. Unadjusted hospital and 12-month mortality decreased from 18 and 31% to 10% and 23%, respectively. After adjusting for case-mix, a reduction in odds of 12-month and hospital mortality was seen in patients with severe TBI, intracranial pressure monitored patients, and mechanically ventilated patients. Despite a reduction in hospital mortality, 12-month mortality remained unchanged in patients aged ≥ 70 years.

Conclusion

A change in the demographics of ICU-treated patients with TBI care is evident. The outcome of younger patients with severe TBI appears to improve, whereas long-term mortality of elderly patients with less severe TBI has not improved. This has ramifications for further efforts to improve TBI care, especially among the elderly.
Ethics in the mining of software repositories
Authors: Gold Nicolas E. , Krinke Jens
Published: November 2021

Research in Mining Software Repositories (MSR) is research involving human subjects, as the repositories usually contain data about developers’ and users’ interactions with the repositories and with each other. The ethics issues raised by such research therefore need to be considered before beginning. This paper presents a discussion of ethics issues that can arise in MSR research, using the mining challenges from the years 2006 to 2021 as a case study to identify the kinds of data used. On the basis of contemporary research ethics frameworks we discuss ethics challenges that may be encountered in creating and using repositories and associated datasets. We also report some results from a small community survey of approaches to ethics in MSR research. In addition, we present four case studies illustrating typical ethics issues one encounters in projects and how ethics considerations can shape projects before they commence. Based on our experience, we present some guidelines and practices that can help in considering potential ethics issues and reducing risks.
On zero-error codes produced by greedy algorithms
Authors: Jurkiewicz Marcin
Published: November 2021

We present two greedy algorithms that determine zero-error codes and lower bounds on the zero-error capacity. These algorithms have many advantages, e.g., they do not store a whole product graph in a computer memory and they use the so-called distributions in all dimensions to get better approximations of the zero-error capacity. We also show an additional application of our algorithms.
The Influence of AA29504 on GABAA Receptor Ligand Binding Properties and Its Implications on Subtype Selectivity
Authors: Sikstus Sylvia , Benkherouf Ali Y. , Soini Sanna L. , Uusi-Oukari Mikko
Published: November 2021

The unique pharmacological properties of δ-containing γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptors (δ-GABAARs) make them an attractive target for selective and persistent modulation of neuronal excitability. However, the availability of selective modulators targeting δ-GABAARs remains limited. AA29504 ([2-amino-4-(2,4,6-trimethylbenzylamino)-phenyl]-carbamic acid ethyl ester), an analog of K+ channel opener retigabine, acts as an agonist and a positive allosteric modulator (Ago-PAM) of δ-GABAARs. Based on electrophysiological studies using recombinant receptors, AA29504 was found to be a more potent and effective agonist in δ-GABAARs than in γ2-GABAARs. In comparison, AA29504 positively modulated the activity of recombinant δ-GABAARs more effectively than γ2-GABAARs, with no significant differences in potency. The impact of AA29504's efficacy- and potency-associated GABAAR subtype selectivity on radioligand binding properties remain unexplored. Using [3H]4'-ethynyl-4-n-propylbicycloorthobenzoate ([3H]EBOB) binding assay, we found no difference in the modulatory potency of AA29504 on GABA- and THIP (4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[5,4-c]pyridin-3-ol)-induced responses between native forebrain GABAARs of wild type and δ knock-out mice. In recombinant receptors expressed in HEK293 cells, AA29504 showed higher efficacy on δ- than γ2-GABAARs in the GABA-independent displacement of [3H]EBOB binding. Interestingly, AA29504 showed a concentration-dependent stimulation of [3H]muscimol binding to γ2-GABAARs, which was absent in δ-GABAARs. This was explained by AA29504 shifting the low-affinity γ2-GABAAR towards a higher affinity desensitized state, thereby rising new sites capable of binding GABAAR agonists with low nanomolar affinity. Hence, the potential of AA29504 to act as a desensitization-modifying allosteric modulator of γ2-GABAARs deserves further investigation for its promising influence on shaping efficacy, duration and plasticity of GABAAR synaptic responses.
Interventions to Prevent Obesity in Mexican Children and Adolescents: Systematic Review
Authors: Aceves-Martins Magaly , López-Cruz Lizet , García-Botello Marcela , Gutierrez-Gómez Yareni Yunuen , Moreno-García Carlos Francisco
Published: November 2021

The prevalence of overweight and obesity has been rising among Mexican children and adolescents in the last decades. To systematically review obesity prevention interventions delivered to Mexican children and adolescents. Thirteen databases and one search engine were searched for evidence from 1995 to 2021. Searches were done in English and Spanish to capture relevant information. Studies with experimental designs, delivered in any setting (e.g., schools or clinics) or digital domains (e.g., social media campaigns) targeting Mexican children or adolescents (≤ 18 years) and reporting weight outcomes, were included in this review. In addition, the risk of bias was appraised with the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool. Twenty-nine studies with 19,136 participants (3–17 years old) were included. The prevalence of overweight and obesity at baseline ranged from 21 to 69%. Most of the studies (89.6%) were delivered in school settings. The duration ranged from 2 days to 3 school years, and the number of sessions also varied from 2 to 200 sessions at different intensities. Overall, anthropometric changes varied across studies. Thus, the efficacy of the included studies is heterogeneous and inconclusive among studies. Current evidence is heterogeneous and inconclusive about the efficacy of interventions to prevent obesity in Mexican children and adolescents. Interventions should not be limited to educational activities and should include different components, such as multi-settings delivery, family inclusion, and longer-term implementations. Mixed-method evaluations (including robust quantitative and qualitative approaches) could provide a deeper understanding of the effectiveness and best practices.