bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Needle detection using ultrasound B‐mode and power Doppler analyses
Authors: Daoud Mohammad I. , Abu‐Hani Ayah F. , Shtaiyat Ahmad , Ali Mostafa Z. , Alazrai Rami
Published: May 2022

Background

Ultrasound is employed in needle interventions to visualize the anatomical structures and track the needle. Nevertheless, needle detection in ultrasound images is a difficult task, specifically at steep insertion angles.

Purpose

A new method is presented to enable effective needle detection using ultrasound B‐mode and power Doppler analyses.

Methods

A small buzzer is used to excite the needle and an ultrasound system is utilized to acquire B‐mode and power Doppler images for the needle. The B‐mode and power Doppler images are processed using Radon transform and local‐phase analysis to initially detect the axis of the needle. The detection of the needle axis is improved by processing the power Doppler image using alpha shape analysis to define a region of interest (ROI) that contains the needle. Also, a set of feature maps is extracted from the ROI in the B‐mode image. The feature maps are processed using a machine learning classifier to construct a likelihood image that visualizes the posterior needle likelihoods of the pixels. Radon transform is applied to the likelihood image to achieve an improved needle axis detection. Additionally, the region in the B‐mode image surrounding the needle axis is analyzed to identify the needle tip using a custom‐made probabilistic approach. Our method was utilized to detect needles inserted in ex vivo animal tissues at shallow [), moderate [), and steep [] angles.

Results

Our method detected the needles with failure rates equal to 0% and mean angle, axis, and tip errors less than or equal to 0.7°, 0.6 mm, and 0.7 mm, respectively. Additionally, our method achieved favorable results compared to two recently introduced needle detection methods.

Conclusions

The results indicate the potential of applying our method to achieve effective needle detection in ultrasound images.
Phosphorus transversal relaxation times and metabolite concentrations in the human brain at 9.4 T
Authors: Dorst Johanna , Borbath Tamas , Ruhm Loreen , Henning Anke
Published: May 2022

A method to estimate phosphorus (31P) transversal relaxation times (T2s) of coupled spin systems is demonstrated. Additionally, intracellular and extracellular pH and relaxation‐corrected metabolite concentrations are reported. Echo time (TE) series of 31P metabolite spectra were acquired using stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) localization. Spectra were fitted using LCModel with accurately modeled Versatile Simulation, Pulses and Analysis (VeSPA) basis sets accounting for J‐evolution of the coupled spin systems. T2s were estimated by fitting a single exponential two‐parameter model across the TE series. Fitted inorganic phosphate frequencies were used to calculate pH, and estimated relaxation times were used to determine the relaxation‐corrected brain metabolite concentrations on an assumption of 3 mM γ‐ATP. The method was demonstrated in healthy human brain at a field strength of 9.4 T. T2 times of ATP and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) were shortest between 8 and 20 ms, followed by T2s of inorganic phosphate between 25 and 50 ms, and phosphocreatine with a T2 of 100 ms. Phosphomonoesters and phosphodiesters had the longest T2s of about 130 ms. The measured T2s are comparable with literature values and fit in a decreasing trend with increasing field strengths. Calculated pHs and metabolite concentrations are also comparable with literature values.
Leveraging physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling to optimize dosing for lopinavir/ritonavir with rifampin in pediatric patients
Authors: Salerno Sara N. , Capparelli Edmund V. , McIlleron Helen , Gerhart Jacqueline G. , Dumond Julie B. , Kashuba Angela D. M. , Denti Paolo , Gonzalez Daniel
Published: May 2022

Study Objective

Treatment of HIV and tuberculosis co‐infection leads to significant mortality in pediatric patients, and treatment can be challenging due to the clinically significant drug–drug interaction (DDI) between lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/RTV) and rifampin. Doubling LPV/RTV results in insufficient lopinavir trough concentrations in pediatric patients. The objective of this study was to leverage physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling to optimize the adjusted doses of LPV/RTV in children receiving the WHO‐revised doses of rifampin (15 mg/kg daily).

Design

Adult and pediatric PBPK models for LPV/RTV with rifampin were developed, including CYP3A and P‐glycoprotein inhibition and induction.

Setting (or Data Source)

Data for LPV/RTV model development and evaluation were available from the pediatric AIDS Clinical Trials Group.

Patients

Dosing simulations were next performed to optimize dosing in children (2 months to 8 years of age).

Intervention

Exposure following super‐boosted LPV/RTV with 10 and 15 mg/kg PO daily rifampin was simulated.

Measurements and Main Results

Simulated parameters were within twofold observations for LPV, RTV, and rifampin in adults and children ≥2 weeks old. The model predicted that, in healthy adults receiving 400/100 mg oral LPV/RTV twice daily (BID), co‐treatment with 600 mg oral rifampin daily decreased the steady‐state area under the concentration vs. time curve of LPV by 79%, in line with the observed change of 75%. Simulated and observed concentration profiles were comparable for LPV/RTV (230/57.5 mg/m2) PO BID without rifampin and 230/230 mg/m2 LPV/RTV PO BID with 10 mg/kg PO daily rifampin in pediatric patients. Sixteen mg/kg of super‐boosted LPV (LPV/RTV 1:1) PO BID with 15 mg/kg PO daily rifampin achieved simulated LPV troughs >1 mg/L in ≥93% of virtual children weighing 3.0‐24.9 kg, which was comparable with 10 mg/kg PO daily rifampin.

Conclusions

Super‐boosted LPV/RTV with 15 mg/kg rifampin achieves therapeutic LPV troughs in HIV/TB‐infected simulated children.
Views of in‐person and virtual group exercise before and during the pandemic in people with Parkinson disease
Authors: Bennett Holly B. , Walter Christopher S. , Oholendt Chris K. , Coleman Kellie S. , Vincenzo Jennifer L.
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), many health/wellness programs transitioned from in‐person to virtual. This mixed‐methods study aims to explore the perceptions of older adults with Parkinson disease (PD) regarding in‐person versus virtual‐based Parkinson‐specific exercise classes (PDEx).

Objective

Explore experiences, perceptions, and perceived effect of participating in and transitioning from in‐person to virtual PDEx in people with Parkinson disease (PwPD).

Design

Cross‐sectional mixed‐methods design using an online survey and focus groups.

Setting

PwPD who participated in an in‐person and virtual PDEx (n = 26) were recruited to participate and completed online surveys and focus groups from their home during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Participants

PwPD who participated in an in‐person and virtual PDEx and agreed to participate completed an online survey (n = 16; male = 8; mean age = 74 years) and focus groups (n = 9; male = 4; mean age = 75 years).

Interventions

N/A

Main Outcome Measures

Participants completed survey questions and participated in focus groups regarding their perceptions, attitudes, and perceived changes in PD‐related symptoms since participating in the PDEx, as well as barriers and facilitators to participating in virtual PDEx.

Results

Participants felt PDEx was somewhat to very safe and beneficial. In the computer, comfort, and perceptions survey, participants reported perceived improved mobility (63%), balance (75%), and overall health (63%) since participating the PDEx, whereas some participants reported improved mental health (38%). Participants reported minimal difficulty with accessing virtual PDEx. Most participants stated that they would prefer to participate in a combination of in‐person and virtual programming. Focus‐group participants emphasized that virtual PDEx provided social and emotional support and improved confidence to perform and maintain an exercise regimen.

Conclusion

PwPD who transitioned from an in‐person to a virtual PDEx felt the program was safe, effective, and improved or prevented declines in their mobility and balance. PwPD who transitioned to a virtual PDEx also reported benefits in non‐motor symptoms such as social isolation.
Physical activity and perceived barriers in individuals with moderate‐to‐severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Pham Tri , Green Rachel , Neaves Stephanie , Hynan Linda S. , Bell Kathleen R. , Juengst Shannon B. , Zhang Rong , Driver Simon , Ding Kan
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Regular physical activity (PA), especially aerobic exercise, may benefit cognitive function in middle‐aged and older adults, but promoting regular PA in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a challenge.

Objective

To characterize PA and perceived barriers to PA in younger (<45 years) and middle age and older (≥45 years) individuals ≥1 year after moderate‐to‐severe TBI.

Design

Multicenter survey study.

Setting

Community.

Participants

Persons who met the following criteria were included in the study: (1) 18 years and older; (2) English speaking; (3) History of moderate‐to‐severe TBI; (4) Followed in a TBI Model Systems Center for at least 1 year; and (5) Able to complete the survey independently.

Intervention

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

PA level measured by Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity questionnaire (RAPA) and self‐reported barriers to PA.

Results

A total of 472 participants completed the survey (response rate of 21%). More individuals in the younger group (<45 years old) met Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended aerobic PA guidelines compared to the middle‐aged and older group (≥ 45 years old) (62% vs 36%, p < .001). Lack of motivation, lack of time, and fatigue were the most reported barriers. Perceived barriers to PA varied by age and PA level: the middle‐aged and older individuals (≥ 45 years old) were more likely to report no barriers and inactive individuals (RAPA ≤5) more likely to report lack of motivation and money, pain, and lack of resources.

Conclusion

Participants ≥45 years of age were less likely to meet the CDC PA guidelines than younger individuals after moderate‐to‐severe TBI. Because perceived barriers to PA varied between age groups and PA levels, individualized approaches may be needed to promote PA in this population.
Strain Amplitude Dependence of Internal Friction in a Cu–Al–Mn Shape Memory Alloy
Authors: Jiao Zhixian , Yin Fuxing , Zhang Jianjun , Liu Li , Liu Yafei , Niu Haoyuan , Hao Gangling , Cui Chunxiang , Wang Qingzhou
Published: May 2022

Strain amplitude (SA) dependence of internal friction (IF) in a Cu–Al–Mn shape memory alloy (SMA) is investigated. Microstructure observation is conducted with the aim to clarify related mechanisms. It is found that the IF measured during the continuous heating process shows a nonmonotonous dependence on SA, that is, the IF increases first and then decreases. The increase of IF can be attributed to the mergence of martensite laths promoted by the reorientation of martensite variants, whereas the decrease of IF is related to the decrease in the density of moveable interfaces. The isothermal IF measured at low temperatures increases monotonously with the increase in SA, because the density of movable interfaces and the sliding distance of these interfaces in the tangential direction increase. Thermal cycles can significantly improve the isothermal IF because of the annihilation of quenched‐in vacancies and the reorientation of martensite variants. At around 240 °C, the isothermal IF in all specimens shows a nonmonotonous dependence on SA, which can be ascribed to the dragging effect of quenched‐in vacancies on dislocations and the breakaway of dislocations from these vacancies when the SA is high enough.
Hyperdoped Crystalline Silicon for Infrared Photodetectors by Pulsed Laser Melting: A Review
Authors: Fu Jiawei , Yang Deren , Yu Xuegong
Published: May 2022

Infrared photodetectors based on crystalline silicon have attracted much attention due to their low cost and good compatibility with complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) technology in ultra‐largescale integrated circuits (ULSI). However, silicon shows no response to infrared light with a wavelength of over 1100 nm corresponding to its bandgap of 1.12 eV. Pulsed laser melting and rapid solidification are effective ways to hyperdope high concentrations of deep‐level impurities into silicon, and therefore form an impurity band within the bandgap, allowing broad‐band infrared light to be absorbed. Herein, a review of the fundamentals and research progress of hyperdoped silicon and related infrared photodetectors during the past few decades is given. The fundamentals of hyperdoped silicon, including the hyperdoping mechanism and infrared light absorption or response, are first discussed. Then, the fabrication methodologies and properties of hyperdoped silicon with various elementals (chalcogens and transition metals) are illustrated, among which the corresponding photodetectors’ properties are stressed. Earlier research on chalcogen hyperdoping paves the path for silicon to be used for infrared photodetectors and later research on transition metals hyperdoping provides a new opportunity for further improvements of device properties. Finally, a summary and future research direction of hyperdoped silicon are outlined.
Effect of InGaN Channel on Radio‐Frequency Performance in High‐Electron‐Mobility Transistors with an InAlGaN Barrier
Authors: Chen Ling , Wang Kai , Shen Pei , Fang Yi , Liu Yuqi , Wang Hong
Published: May 2022

The effect of the InGaN channel on the performance of high‐electron‐mobility transistors (HEMTs) through the Silvaco Atlas simulator is investigated in detail. It is shown that the 2D electron gas (2DEG) density and carrier confinement of the device can be enhanced by replacing the GaN channel with the InGaN channel. The higher 2DEG density significantly increases the saturation drain current density, thus improving the current drive capability of the device. Meanwhile, better carrier confinement alleviates the short channel effects (SCEs) and traps state‐related current collapse in the GaN buffer, effectively improving the reliability of the device. Better carrier confinement also increases the current gain cutoff frequency (fT) and maximum oscillation frequency (fmax) to 133 and 226 GHz, while the fT and fmax of conventional GaN channel HEMTs are 104 and 167 GHz, respectively. These results indicate that AlInGaN/InGaN HEMTs achieve better performance in direct current (DC) and radio frequency (RF).
On the Temperature‐ and Pressure‐Dependent Structure of Liquid Phosphorus: A Reverse Monte Carlo Study
Authors: Pothoczki Szilvia , Pusztai László
Published: May 2022

Apart from the well‐known molten white phosphorus, existing at temperatures around 50 °C under atmospheric pressure, early in this millennium, new high‐pressure, high‐temperature phases have been discovered. One group of the newly found liquids can be identified as being formed by P4 molecules, just like common molten white phosphorus. The structures of these (“old” and “new”) forms have not yet been compared in detail: this comparison is in the focus of the present work. Orientational correlations between P4 tetrahedra, as a function of the distance between centers of tetrahedra, have been revealed. It is found that face‐to‐face type contacts occur at much lower center–center distances in the newly discovered liquids. As an addition, new estimates, based on series of Reverse Monte Carlo calculations, for the densities of the high‐temperature phases are provided; this step is necessary because in this respect, sizeable uncertainties have been reported previously.
Strain Tunable Quantum Spin Hall Insulating Phase in Halogen‐Decorated Double‐Layer Stanene
Authors: Mahmud Shoaib , Haque Md. Mobinul , Alam Md. Kawsar
Published: May 2022

Group IV graphene analogues such as stanene, plumbene, etc. have drawn attention because of their large spin–orbit coupling and thus being promising candidates for topological insulator. However, fabrication of these ultrathin monolayers is a daunting task. To reduce the difficulties of the fabrication of 2D topological insulators, bilayer materials with sizable nontrivial bandgaps can be a viable option. Chemically decorated bilayer stanene is a novel structure which has not been studied before. Herein, the topological characteristics of halogen‐decorated bilayer of stanene are studied and their topological nontriviality is confirmed by calculating the Z2 invariant. As the topological nontriviality can be preserved for these bilayers, these materials will have advantages over their monolayer counterparts in terms of fabrication difficulties. Halogen‐decorated stanene bilayers (except Br) are topologically nontrivial and their nontrivial nature is tunable by external strain. Hybrid functional (HSE06) has been employed to calculate the band structures of the materials at various strains. Also, the band structures of their zigzag nanoribbons have been analyzed. Lastly, the formation energy, quantum molecular dynamics, and phonon dispersion confirm their electronic and structural stability. The proposed material may speed up the fabrication of 2D topological insulators aiming future spintronic and high‐speed electronic devices.
Sustainable remediation column
Authors: Rebel Rob , Waldron Kyle
Published: May 2022

This is a continuation of the Remediation column highlighting sustainable and resilient remediation sponsored by the Sustainable Remediation Forum (or “SURF”). In this column we have two active members of U.S. SURF collaborate from two different perspectives, one from a consultant and a second perspective from industry on the following question.
Optimization and evaluation of machine–field parameters of remotely controlled two‐wheel paddy transplanter
Authors: Lohan Shiv Kumar , Narang Mahesh Kumar , Javed Mohd , Kumar Vinay , Majumder Atin , Raghuvirsinh Parmar
Published: May 2022

Amongst the various types of paddy transplanters; walk‐behind‐type transplanters are more economically viable as compared with riding‐type paddy transplanters. But, it requires more human involvement because the operator has to walk behind the two‐wheel walk‐behind‐type paddy transplanter in puddled field conditions up to about 10–22 km during a day‐long period under high temperature and humid conditions. To reduce the workload of the operator, a wireless remote‐controlled system has been developed to control the various hand control levers of walk‐behind‐type paddy transplanter through electric linear actuators and electronic control unit. The present study emphasizes the performance evaluation of the remote control system and optimizes the machine–field parameters. Response surface methodology was used with three levels of soil puddling settlement period (4, 26, and 48 h), three forward speeds (1.40, 1.85, and 2.30 km h−1) in two types of soils (light‐textured and medium‐textured). The response factors, that is, the effective field capacity (EFC) and field efficiency (FE) were found affected by forwarding speed, soil type, and soil puddling settlement period, but no significant effect was observed at the interaction level. The optimal value of soil puddling settlement period was 26 h at a forward speed of 2.0 km h−1for light‐textured soil, whereas for medium‐textured soil, it was 30 h at 1.82 km h−1. A total saving of up to 18.18% labor requirement was observed as required in the existing walk‐behind‐type paddy transplanter. The increase in EFC was observed up to 20%, resulting the net benefit per unit area and per year has been increased up to 6.59% and 15.86%, respectively. The overall results of the field evaluation showed that the remote‐controlled system for the two‐wheel paddy transplanter would be feasible at optimized field and machine parameters.
The polytomous discrimination index for prediction involving multistate processes under intermittent observation
Authors: Jiang Shu , Cook Richard J.
Published: May 2022

With the increasing importance of predictive modeling in health research comes the need for methods to rigorously assess predictive accuracy. We consider the problem of evaluating the accuracy of predictive models for nominal outcomes when outcome data are coarsened at random. We first consider the problem in the context of a multinomial response modeled by polytomous logistic regression. Attention is then directed to the motivating setting in which class membership corresponds to the state occupied in a multistate disease process at a time horizon of interest. Here, class (state) membership may be unknown at the time horizon since disease processes are under intermittent observation. We propose a novel extension to the polytomous discrimination index to address this and evaluate the predictive accuracy of an intensity‐based model in the context of a study involving patients with arthritis from a registry at the University of Toronto Centre for Prognosis Studies in Rheumatic Diseases.
Unfused Acceptors Matching π‐Bridge Blocks with Proper Frameworks Enable Over 12% As‐Cast Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Yue , Lin Zhijie , Cao Jinru , Du Fuqiang , Wang Hongtao , He Shi , Tang Weihua
Published: May 2022

Emerging unfused‐ring acceptors (UFAs) have been explored in pursuit of low‐cost high‐efficient organic solar cells (OSCs). Assembling unfused building blocks into proper frameworks are challenging for the molecular design of UFAs. The authors report herein four UFAs adopting either dithiophene cyclopentadiene (DTC) or dithieno[3,2‐b:2',3'‐d]pyrrole (DTP) as π‐bridge units with different molecular frameworks for high‐efficient as‐cast OSCs. All these acceptors exhibit strong near‐infrared absorption and narrow optical band gap (Egopt < 1.50 eV). DTC‐bridged symmetric and DTP‐bridged asymmetric UFAs exhibit higher planar conformation as well as suitable miscibility and homogeneous phase separation when blending with polymer donor PBDB‐T to promote efficient charge transport in the blends. Their blends with PBDB‐T contribute optimal PCE of 12.17% and 11.92% in as‐cast OSCs, among the highest values for UFAs based as‐cast devices in the literature. Experimental and theoretical simulations systematically reveal the impact of manipulating the molecular framework of UFAs on their conformation, optoelectronic, and photovoltaic performance. The results indicate the matching π‐bridge units with molecular frameworks as an attractive approach to design UFAs for high‐performance as‐cast OSCs.
Tumor‐specific and photothermal‐augmented chemodynamic therapy by ferrocene‐carbon dot‐crosslinked nanoparticles
Authors: Sun Shan , Chen Qiao , Li Yike , Yu Yao , Li Zhongjun , Lin Hengwei
Published: May 2022

Extensive research have been devoted to the exploration of multifunctional theranostic agents for cancer, but the poor tumor specificity and unsatisfactory treatment efficacy are some of the critical obstacles for their clinical translations. Herein, ferrocene‐carbon dot‐crosslinked nanoparticles (Fc‐CD NPs) were designed and fabricated for achieving highly specific and photothermal‐augmented chemodynamic therapy (CDT). The Fc‐CD NPs were found not only to inherit the immanent fluorescence, photoacoustic, and photothermal properties of carbon dots (CDs), but also be endowed with CDT that could occur selectively in tumor microenvironment (TME) due to the presence of Fc for triggering Fenton reaction. Moreover, the enlarged particle size of Fc‐CD NPs facilitated their effective accumulation at tumor sites, thus realizing great improvement for antitumor treatment outcomes. Once docking at tumor and being exposed to 660 nm laser irradiation, significantly amplified CDT effect of Fc‐CD NPs was observed due to heat‐accelerating generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). More interestingly, since the produced ROS could in turn alleviate the thermal‐resistance of photothermal therapy (PTT), the therapeutic efficiency of integrated PTT and CDT was synergized to the maximum extent. This study on the one hand provides a facile approach to fabricate CDs‐based multifunctional theranostic nanoplatform with enhanced tumor accumulation and specificity, on the other hand emphasizes the merits of synergizing mutually beneficial therapeutic modalities for more efficient cancer therapy.
3D Neural Network Composed of Neurospheroid and Bionanohybrid on Microelectrode Array to Realize the Spatial Input Signal Recognition in Neurospheroid
Authors: Yoon Jinho , Kim Hyun‐Woong , Shin Minkyu , Lim Joungpyo , Lee Ji‐Young , Lee Sang‐Nam , Choi Jeong‐Woo
Published: May 2022

There have been several studies for demonstration of 2D neural network using living cells or organic/inorganic molecules, but to date, there is no report of development of a 3D neural network in vitro. Based on developed bionanohybrid composed of protein, DNA, molybdenum disulfide nanoparticles, and peptides for controlling electrophysiological states of living cells, here, the in vitro 3D neural network composed of the bionanohybrid, 3D neurospheroid and the microelectrode array (MEA) is developed. After production of the 3D neurospheroid derived from human neural stem cells, the bionanohybrid developed on the MEA successfully semi‐penetrates the neurites of the 3D neurospheroid and forms the 3D neural network. The developed 3D neural network successfully exhibited the electrophysiological output signals of the 3D neurospheroid by transmitting the input signal applied by the bionanohybrid. Moreover, by using the selectively immobilized bionanohybrid on the MEA, the spatial input signal recognition in the neurospheroid of 3D neural network is realized for the first time. This newly developed in vitro 3D neural network provides a promising strategy to be applied in brain‐on‐a‐chip, brain disease‐related drug efficacy evaluation, bioelectronics, and bioelectronic medicine.
Recent Advances in Dual‐Atom Site Catalysts for Efficient Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide Electrocatalysis
Authors: An Qizheng , Jiang Jingjing , Cheng Weiren , Su Hui , Jiang Yong , Liu Qinghua
Published: May 2022

Atomically dispersed metal catalysts have been widely used in electrocatalysis because of their outstanding catalytic activity and high atomic utilization efficiency. As an extension of single‐atom catalysts (SACs), dual‐atom catalysts (DACs) provide new insights for the development of atomic‐scale catalysts. Higher metal loading and more flexible active sites endow DACs with improved catalytic performance as well as optimized reaction mechanism model. In this review, DACs are firstly classified according to their configurations and metal sites. Subsequently, the synthetic strategies and characterization techniques of DACs are introduced. Furthermore, the applications of DACs are exemplified in various electrocatalytic reactions, including oxygen reduction reaction, oxygen evolution reaction and carbon dioxide reduction reaction. Finally, the prospects to be expected and challenges to be faced with are discussed.
Circular economy of waste in agrifood supply chain: A review
Authors: Ouro‐Salim Omar , Guarnieri Patrícia
Published: May 2022

Through a systematic literature review (SLR), this study aims to analyze the progress achieved in international literature regarding the circular economy (CE) of food waste. As a result, we realized that most of the authors considered had proposed different mathematical models, chemical and thermal treatment methods, statistical, and conceptual frameworks, besides that quantitative and qualitative studies to explain the processes related to the waste and CE in the agrifood sector. Furthermore, in business, management, and accounting, the CE of food waste focuses on added value and optimizing energy use rather than approaching the principles of reduction, reuse, and recycling. This study constitutes a first attempt at understanding the CE of food waste in business, management, and accounting fields of knowledge. This SLR can assist decision‐makers, managers, and governments to formulate policies and strategies to effectively implement CE in agrifood supply chains.
Sex‐dependent metal accumulation and immunoexpression of Hsp70 and Nrf2 in rats' brain following manganese exposure
Authors: Ijomone Omamuyovwi M. , Iroegbu Joy D. , Morcillo Patricia , Ayodele Akinyemi J. , Ijomone Olayemi K. , Bornhorst Julia , Schwerdtle Tanja , Aschner Michael
Published: May 2022

Manganese (Mn), although important for multiple cellular processes, has posed environmental health concerns due to its neurotoxic effects. In recent years, there have been extensive studies on the mechanism of Mn‐induced neuropathology, as well as the sex‐dependent vulnerability to its neurotoxic effects. Nonetheless, cellular mechanisms influenced by sex differences in susceptibility to Mn have yet to be adequately characterized. Since oxidative stress is a key mechanism of Mn neurotoxicity, here, we have probed Hsp70 and Nrf2 proteins to investigate the sex‐dependent changes following exposure to Mn. Male and female rats were administered intraperitoneal injections of MnCl2 (10 mg/kg and 25 mg/kg) 48 hourly for a total of eight injections (15 days). We evaluated changes in body weight, as well as Mn accumulation, Nrf2 and Hsp70 expression across four brain regions; striatum, cortex, hippocampus and cerebellum in both sexes. Our results showed sex‐specific changes in body‐weight, specifically in males but not in females. Additionally, we noted sex‐dependent accumulation of Mn in the brain, as well as in expression levels of Nrf2 and Hsp70 proteins. These findings revealed sex‐dependent susceptibility to Mn‐induced neurotoxicity corresponding to differential Mn accumulation, and expression of Hsp70 and Nrf2 across several brain regions.
Maternal perinatal exposure to bisphenol S induces an estrogenic like effect in glucose homeostasis in male offspring
Authors: Morimoto Sumiko , Solís‐Lemus Edgar , Jiménez‐Vivanco Jesica , Castellanos‐Ruiz Dafne , Díaz‐Díaz Eulises , Mendoza‐Rodríguez C. Adriana
Published: May 2022

Bisphenol S (BPS) has been introduced into the industry as a safer alternative to bisphenol A (BPA). However, the recent studies have reported a possible association between BPS and disturbed glucose homeostasis, indicating that it may be a risk factor for type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and gestational diabetes mellitus. Nevertheless, the role of BPS in glucose metabolism remains controversial. In this study, we investigated the glucose metabolism of male Wistar rats born from dams that were BPS‐exposed (groups: BPS‐L (0.05 mg/kg/day), BPS‐H (20 mg/kg/day)) during pregnancy and lactation. We observed that both BPS treated groups of animals presented a significant decrease in anogenital distance/weight1/3, as compared to control animals, although no alterations in testosterone levels were observed. Furthermore, the BPS‐L group presented a significant decrease in body weight from postnatal day (PND) 21 to adult stage. In addition, a significant increase in glucose tolerance, pancreatic β‐cell proliferation, the frequency of small islets, and the average β‐cell size at PND 36 was observed in this group. However, no changes in insulin serum levels and percentage of β‐cells were recorded. Furthermore, these changes were not preserved at the adult stage (PND 120). The results suggest that the administration of low doses of BPS during the perinatal period induced an estrogenic like effect, with males apparently becoming more female‐like in their responses to a glucose challenge.
Suspected severe post‐anaesthetic myopathy or myelopathy in a Clydesdale horse resulting in euthanasia
Authors: Lloyd Ffion , Dixon Claire , Kropf Josephine , Bellitto Nicholas , Murison Pamela
Published: May 2022

This case report describes suspected myopathy or myelopathy in a 5‐year‐old Clydesdale gelding following general anaesthesia for sarcoid removal. The lowest mean arterial pressure was 67 mmHg. Hyperlactataemia and tachycardia were observed during anaesthesia prompting abortion of surgery. The horse was unable to stand with assistance from a specialised sling. Azotaemia and hyperkalaemia developed in recovery and worsened despite therapeutic interventions. Euthanasia was performed given the grave prognosis. Postmortem examination was not carried out but could have provided a definitive diagnosis. Specific factors have been identified in the prevention of post‐anaesthetic myopathy, including maintenance of adequate tissue perfusion and oxygenation and careful positioning. Potential improvements in the anaesthetic management of this case in relation to these factors are discussed.
3Delectron diffraction for structure determination of small‐molecule nanocrystals: A possible breakthrough for the pharmaceutical industry
Authors: Andrusenko Iryna , Gemmi Mauro
Published: May 2022

Nanomedicine is among the most fascinating areas of research. Most of the newly discovered pharmaceutical polymorphs, as well as many new synthesized or isolated natural products, appear only in form of nanocrystals. The development of techniques that allow investigating the atomic structure of nanocrystalline materials is therefore one of the most important frontiers of crystallography. Some unique features of electrons, like their non‐neutral charge and their strong interaction with matter, make this radiation suitable for imaging and detecting individual atoms, molecules, or nanoscale objects down to sub‐angstrom resolution. In the recent years the development of three‐dimensional (3D) electron diffraction (3D ED) has shown that electron diffraction can be successfully used to solve the crystal structure of nanocrystals and most of its limiting factors like dynamical scattering or limited completeness can be easily overcome. This article is a review of the state of the art of this method with a specific focus on how it can be applied to beam sensitive samples like small‐molecule organic nanocrystals.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies
A Scandium‐based Microporous Metal‐Organic Framework for Ethane‐Selective Separation
Authors: Shi Yanshu , Xie Yi , Arman Hadi , Chen Banglin
Published: May 2022

Purification of ethylene (C2H4) is one of the most important industrial separation practices. In this report, Sc‐abtc, a rare‐earth microporous metal‐organic framework was successfully constructed from 3,3’,5,5’‐azobenzenetetracarboxylic acid (H4abtc) and scandium through facile solvothermal method. Sc‐abtc have shown preferrential adsorption of ethane over ethylene with 4.28 mmol g−1 uptake of ethane at ambient conditions. The calculated isosteric heat of adsorption revealed Sc‐abtc has stronger binding affinity toward C2H6 (28.2 kJ mol−1) than C2H4 (11 kJ mol−1), which revealled the mechanism of the ethane‐selective property. Moreover, column breakthrough tests were conducted to further verified the practical C2H4/C2H6 separation with excellent cycling stability.
Integrated correlators in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 super Yang-Mills and periods
Authors: Wen Congkao , Zhang Shun-Qing
Published: May 2022

Abstract

We study perturbative aspects of recently proposed integrated four-point correlators in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 supersymmetric Yang-Mills with all classical gauge groups using standard Feynman diagram computations. We argue that perturbative contributions of the integrated correlators are given by linear combinations of periods of certain conformal Feynman graphs, which were originally introduced for the construction of perturbative loop integrands of the un-integrated correlator. This observation allows us to evaluate the integrated correlators to high loop orders. We explicitly compute one of the integrated correlators up to four loops in the planar limit, and up to three loops for the other integrated correlator, and find agreement with the results obtained from supersymmetric localisation. The identification between the integrated correlators and certain periods also implies non-trivial relations among these periods, given that one may compute the integrated correlators using localisation. We illustrate this idea by considering one of the integrated correlators at five loops in the planar limit, where the localisation result leads to a prediction for the period of a certain six-loop integral.
Black branes with cosmological constant
Authors: Deshpande Rhucha , Lunin Oleg
Published: May 2022

Abstract

We study neutral black branes with flat and curved worldvolumes in the presence of a negative cosmological constant. We reduce the equations governing the dynamics of such objects to one second-order ODE and perform various asymptotic expansions of the resulting equation. We also analyze regular geometries which have the same symmetries as the branes and interpolate between an empty interior and AdS asymptotics. We show that the dynamics of such spacetimes is governed by the Abel equation.
A Characterization of the Vector Lattice of Measurable Functions
Authors: Cerreia-Vioglio Simone , Leonetti Paolo , Maccheroni Fabio
Published: May 2022

Given a probability measure space $$(X,\Sigma ,\mu )$$

(
X
,
Σ
,
μ
)

, it is well known that the Riesz space $$L^0(\mu )$$

L
0

(
μ
)

of equivalence classes of measurable functions $$f: X \rightarrow \mathbf {R}$$

f
:
X
→
R

is universally complete and the constant function $$\varvec{1}$$

1

is a weak order unit. Moreover, the linear functional $$L^\infty (\mu )\rightarrow \mathbf {R}$$

L
∞

(
μ
)

→
R

defined by $$f \mapsto \int f\,\mathrm {d}\mu $$

f
↦
∫
f

d
μ

is strictly positive and order continuous. Here we show, in particular, that the converse holds true, i.e., any universally complete Riesz space E with a weak order unit $$e>0$$

e
>
0

which admits a strictly positive order continuous linear functional on the principal ideal generated by e is lattice isomorphic onto $$L^0(\mu )$$

L
0

(
μ
)

, for some probability measure space $$(X,\Sigma ,\mu )$$

(
X
,
Σ
,
μ
)

.
All-terrain vehicle (ATV)-related injuries among different age groups: insights from a 9-year observational study
Authors: Abdelrahman Husham , Khan Naushad Ahmad , El-Menyar Ayman , Consunji Rafael , Asim Mohammad , Alani Mushrek , Shunni Adam , Al-Aieb Abubaker , Al-Thani Hassan
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To describe the epidemiology, patterns, seasonality and outcome of all-terrain vehicle-related injuries (ATVRIs) among different age groups in Qatar.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of all patients hospitalized with ATVRI from 2010 to 2018 was conducted. Data were analyzed by age, gender, seasonality, and Injury severity Score  (ISS). Chi-square, Student t and ANOVA tests were used for analysis. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to find out predictors of head injury and severe injury among ATV users.

Results

Out of 15,000 trauma admissions, 521 had ATVRI (4%) with a mean age of 23.3 ± 12.3. The male-to-female ratio was 4:1 and the pediatric population represented 40%. The compliance with helmet use was 3.6%. The most injured regions were chest (29.8%), upper extremities (28.8%) and the head (25.9%). The mean ISS was 10.6 ± 7.7. Fracture fixation was the most operative intervention. Among hospitalized patients, 7.7% were transferred to rehabilitation . ATVRIs occurred more frequently between October and April and a large proportion (57.8%) occurred during weekends. The overall ATV-related hospital mortality rate was 2.1%. Young and older ATV users were more likely to suffer spine injuries than the pediatric population (p = 0.001). The mean ISS was greater in the older groups (p = 0.03). There were no statistically significant differences regarding the use of protective devices, mortality, or length of hospital stay between the different age groups. On multivariate analysis, young age and ISS were predictors of head injury among ATV users after adjusting for gender and helmet use.

Conclusion

This is a nationwide study looking at all age groups who sustained ATVRI in Qatar. ATVRIs were observed in all age groups following leisure and recreational use. It follows a seasonal pattern with poor protective measures compliance. There is a need to reinforce helmet use and raise public awareness.
Club cell protein (CC)16 as potential lung injury marker in a porcine 72 h polytrauma model
Authors: Greven Johannes , Vollrath Jan Tilmann , Bläsius Felix , He Zhizhen , Bolierakis Eftychios , Horst Klemens , Störmann Philipp , Nowak Aleksander J. , Simic Marija , Marzi Ingo , Hildebrand Frank , Relja Borna
Published: May 2022

Background

Polytrauma and respiratory tract damage after thoracic trauma cause about 25% of mortality among severely injured patients. Thoracic trauma can lead to the development of severe lung complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome, and is, therefore, of great interest for monitoring in intensive care units (ICU). In recent years, club cell protein (CC)16 with its antioxidant properties has proven to be a potential outcome-related marker. In this study, we evaluated whether CC16 constitutes as a marker of lung damage in a porcine polytrauma model.

Methods

In a 72 h ICU polytrauma pig model (thoracic trauma, tibial fracture, hemorrhagic shock, liver laceration), blood plasma samples (0, 3, 9, 24, 48, 72 h), BAL samples (72 h) and lung tissue (72 h) were collected. The trauma group (PT) was compared to a sham group. CC16 as a possible biomarker for lung injury in this model, and IL-8 concentrations as known indicator for ongoing inflammation during trauma were determined by ELISA. Histological analysis of ZO-1 and determination of total protein content were used to show barrier disruption and edema formation in lung tissue from the trauma group.

Results

Systemic CC16 levels were significantly increased early after polytrauma compared vs. sham. After 72 h, CC16 concentration was significantly increased in lung tissue as well as in BAL in PT vs. sham. Similarly, IL-8 and total protein content in BAL were significantly increased in PT vs. sham. Evaluation of ZO-1 staining showed significantly lower signal intensity for polytrauma.

Conclusion

The data confirm for the first time in a larger animal polytrauma model that lung damage was indicated by systemic and/or local CC16 response. Thus, early plasma and late BAL CC16 levels might be suitable to be used as markers of lung injury in this polytrauma model.
Genetic architecture of fusarium head blight disease resistance and associated traits in Nordic spring wheat
Authors: Nannuru Vinay Kumar Reddy , Windju Susanne S. , Belova Tatiana , Dieseth Jon Arne , Alsheikh Muath , Dong Yanhong , McCartney Curt A. , Henriques Maria Antonia , Buerstmayr Hermann , Michel Sebastian , Meuwissen Theodorus H. E. , Lillemo Morten
Published: May 2022

Key message

This study identified a significant number of QTL that are associated with FHB disease resistance in NMBU spring wheat panel by conducting genome-wide association study.

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a widely known devastating disease of wheat caused by Fusarium graminearum and other Fusarium species. FHB resistance is quantitative, highly complex and divided into several resistance types. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) that are effective against several of the resistance types give valuable contributions to resistance breeding. A spring wheat panel of 300 cultivars and breeding lines of Nordic and exotic origins was tested in artificially inoculated field trials and subjected to visual FHB assessment in the years 2013–2015, 2019 and 2020. Deoxynivalenol (DON) content was measured on harvested grain samples, and anther extrusion (AE) was assessed in separate trials. Principal component analysis based on 35 and 25 K SNP arrays revealed the existence of two subgroups, dividing the panel into European and exotic lines. We employed a genome-wide association study to detect QTL associated with FHB traits and identify marker–trait associations that consistently influenced FHB resistance. A total of thirteen QTL were identified showing consistent effects across FHB resistance traits and environments. Haplotype analysis revealed a highly significant QTL on 7A, Qfhb.nmbu.7A.2, which was further validated on an independent set of breeding lines. Breeder-friendly KASP markers were developed for this QTL that can be used in marker-assisted selection. The lines in the wheat panel harbored from zero to five resistance alleles, and allele stacking showed that resistance can be significantly increased by combining several of these resistance alleles. This information enhances breeders´ possibilities for genomic prediction and to breed cultivars with improved FHB resistance.
Existentially closed W*-probability spaces
Authors: Goldbring Isaac , Houdayer Cyril
Published: May 2022

We study several model-theoretic aspects of W$$^*$$∗-probability spaces, that is,$$\sigma $$σ-finite von Neumann algebras equipped with a faithful normal state. We first study the existentially closed W$$^*$$∗-spaces and prove several structural results about such spaces, including that they are type III$$_1$$1factors that tensorially absorb the Araki–Woods factor$$R_\infty $$R∞. We also study the existentially closed objects in the restricted class of W$$^*$$∗-probability spaces with Kirchberg’s QWEP property, proving that$$R_\infty $$R∞itself is such an existentially closed space in this class. Our results about existentially closed probability spaces imply that the class of type III$$_1$$1factors forms a$$\forall _2$$∀2-axiomatizable class. We show that for$$\lambda \in (0,1)$$λ∈(0,1), the class of III$$_\lambda $$λfactors is not$$\forall _2$$∀2-axiomatizable but is$$\forall _3$$∀3-axiomatizable; this latter result uses a version of Keisler’s Sandwich theorem adapted to continuous logic. Finally, we discuss some results around elementary equivalence of III$$_\lambda $$λfactors. Using a result of Boutonnet, Chifan, and Ioana, we show that, for any$$\lambda \in (0,1)$$λ∈(0,1), there is a family of pairwise non-elementarily equivalent III$$_\lambda $$λfactors of size continuum. While we cannot prove the same result for III$$_1$$1factors, we show that there are at least three pairwise non-elementarily equivalent III$$_1$$1factors by showing that the class of full factors is preserved under elementary equivalence.