bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Necrotizing Fasciitis Extending to the Neck After Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy: A Case Report
Authors: Hsu Wei-Hsun , Weng Chu-Hao , Chen Marcelo , Lee Chih-Chiao
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Minor complications have been reported following extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), including renal colic, gross hematuria, urinary obstruction, and hematoma. Some rare major complications have been also reported, such as abscess formation, acute pancreatitis with abscess, and splenic rupture. Here, we present the computed tomographic (CT) findings of a patient with necrotizing fasciitis, along with abscess formation after ESWL, which rapidly invaded the neck, chest, and abdominal wall. Case Presentation: A 67-year-old woman presented with persistent cough, intermittent nausea, and progressive right flank pain for one month after ESWL, which was performed for a right upper ureteral stone, measuring 1.2 × 0.3 cm, with right hydronephrosis detected on abdominal X-ray and renal ultrasound. The initial abdominal CT scan showed perirenal and pararenal hematoma of the right kidney, extending to the right posterior pararenal space, right psoas muscle, and right paraspinal region. Empiric antibiotic treatment was prescribed for the patient. After one week of treatment, the follow-up CT scan showed perirenal and pararenal abscesses with necrotizing fasciitis, invading the posterior region up to the paraspinal region and then migrating upward to the chest wall, axillary, supra-clavicular, and infra-clavicular regions, and the neck. The abscess also caused downward damage to the abdominal wall. Four weeks after a surgical intervention, the inflammatory process almost resolved. Conclusion: Although the possibility of post-ESWL necrotizing fasciitis is acutely low, it is important to consider this fatal complication.
Concerns About Breast Pain: How Useful Is Imaging?
Authors: Ezeofor Salome Nwaelom , Iloanusi Nneka Ifeyinwa , Okere Philip Chinedu
Published: July 2022

Background: Breast pain is one of the most common reasons for referral to breast imaging. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the diagnostic yield of mammography and sonomammography in women complaining of breast pain in a teaching hospital in Southeast Nigeria. Methods: This descriptive study analyzed the mammographic/sonomammographic images and records of 241 consecutive adult women aged 18 - 81 years with breast pain who presented to the radiology department over three years. A non-random sampling method was employed to select the participants. The extracted variables were patient’s age, positive clinical history of breast pain, laterality of breast pain, type of imaging, presence or absence of lesion, type, and laterality of lesions if present, and Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) assignment of imaging findings on mammography and sonomammography. The descriptive analysis of continuous variables and inferential statistics of ordinal data were performed with Microsoft Excel and chi-squared test, respectively. In this study, P < 0.05 was set as the significance level. Results: Most women (20%) with a complaint of breast pain were in the 40 - 44-year age group. Moreover, 32.3%, 33.2%, and 34.4% of the participants had left-sided, right-sided, and bilateral breast pain, respectively. Among the participants, 118 and 123 women had mammography and sonomammography, respectively. Furthermore, 76.3% had normal findings on mammography or sonomammography, and only 23.7% had positive imaging findings on breast imaging. These lesions were mostly observed among the women in the age group of 45 - 49 years. Of those with lesions detected on imaging, 79.2% and 20.8% demonstrated benign and malignant attributes, respectively. Masses with definite benign attributes assigned BI-RADS II were mostly fibroadenomata and cysts. Inferential statistics indicated that unilateral mastalgia was more likely to be associated with a breast lesion, while bilateral mastalgia usually resulted in normal breast imaging findings. Conclusions: Women referring to the Radiology Department with a complaint of breast pain alone are unlikely to have any significant breast imaging finding; hence, imaging serves as a tool for assuaging the anxiety of these patients and reassuring the referring physician. Unilateral but not bilateral mastalgia is likely to yield positive imaging findings, which are largely benign.
Correlation Between Satisfaction with the Field of Study and Clinical Competence in Nursing Students
Authors: Zeighami Mohammadi Sharareh , Haghighi Khoskhoo Neda
Published: July 2022

Background: Satisfaction with the field of study can affect the acquisition of knowledge and skills necessary for that profession. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between satisfaction with the field of study and clinical competence in nursing students. Methods: This descriptive correlational study was performed on 167 nursing students in the seventh and eighth semesters in the School of Nursing and Midwifery of Islamic Azad University, Karaj Branch, Iran, from 2020 to 2021. Sampling was done by a purposeful sample method. Data collection tools were the demographic information form, the Satisfaction with the Field of Study Questionnaire, and Students' Clinical Competency Questionnaire, which were completed by the self-report method. Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 16 using Pearson correlation coefficient, chi-square test, and t-test and reported by descriptive statistics of mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage. Results: The clinical competence of nursing students in the seventh and eighth semesters was moderate (53.3%), and 56.9% of them were very satisfied with their field of study. A weak positive and significant correlation was obtained between satisfaction with the field of study and the total score of clinical competence (P = 0.001, r = 0.260). Conclusions: With increasing satisfaction with the field of study, the clinical competence of nursing students increased. This finding emphasizes the need to invest in strategies to promote increased satisfaction with the field of study to help develop the clinical competence of nursing students.
Pathology Education Powered by Virtual and Digital Transformation: Now and the Future
Authors: Hassell Lewis A. , Absar Syeda Fatima , Chauhan Chhavi , Dintzis Suzanne , Farver Carol F. , Fathima Samreen , Glassy Eric F. , Goldstein Jeffery A. , Gullapalli Rama , Ho Jonhan , Koch Lisa K. , Madory James E. , Mirza Kamran M. , Nguyen Phuong Nhat , Pantanowitz Liron , Parwani Anil , Rojansky Rebecca , Seifert Robert P. , Singh Rajendra , ElGabry Ehab A. , Bui Marilyn
Published: July 2022

Context.—

Myriad forces are changing teaching and learning strategies throughout all stages and types of pathology education. Pathology educators and learners face the challenge of adapting to and adopting new methods and tools. The digital pathology transformation and the associated educational ecosystem are major factors in this setting of change.

Objective.—

To identify and collect resources, tools, and examples of educational innovations involving digital pathology that are valuable to pathology learners and teachers at each phase of professional development.

Data Sources.—

Sources were a literature review and the personal experience of authors and educators.

Conclusions.—

High-quality digital pathology tools and resources have permeated all the major niches within anatomic pathology and are increasingly well applied to clinical pathology for learners at all levels. Coupled with other virtual tools, the training landscape in pathology is highly enriched and much more accessible than in the past. Digital pathology is well suited to the demands of peer-to-peer education, such as in the introduction of new testing, grading, or other standardized practices. We found that digital pathology was well adapted to apply our current understanding of optimal teaching strategies and was effective at the undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate, and peer-to-peer levels. We curated and tabulated many existing resources within some segments of pathology. We identified several best practices for each training or educational stage based on current materials and proposed high-priority areas for potential future development.
Análise da Pandemia de COVID-19 em Pelotas
Authors: Kurz Gustavo Braz , Buske Daniela , Quadros Régis Sperotto , Gonçalves Glênio Aguiar
Published: July 2022

Neste trabalho apresenta-se uma análise da situação dos casos de contaminação da população pelo virus SARS-CoV-2, durante a pandemia de COVID-19, na cidade de Pelotas, no sul do Rio Grande do Sul.Utilizando um modelo matemático do tipo compartimentado simples e determinístico, apresenta-se uma projeção do número de casos até o final do ano de 2020, considerando 3 diferentes cenários. A evolução da pandemia considerando curvas de casos acumulados, recuperados, ativos e óbitos; a ocupação dos leitos de UTI exclusivos COVID; casos e óbitos por semana epidemiológica e a variação do número efetivo de reprodução e do percentual de isolamento social em Pelotas, também será apresentado.
Chemical Residues in Rice Culture: A Bibliographic Review
Authors: Silva Frederico Fonseca da , Peternella Wilson Sacchi
Published: July 2022

Rice is the most cultivated cereal in the world and the main component of human food. Due to the particularity that this crop develops in rainfed areas, irrigated and, mainly, flooded, associated with intense agricultural activity. The final product becomes a potential vehicle, directly or indirectly, of innumerable diseases caused by pesticides used during the phase vegetative; absorption of various cations that, in excess, cause disturbances in man and, percolation in the soil carrying elements or chemical compounds that will contaminate rivers, springs and groundwater. In addition to receiving significant amounts of post-harvest pesticides in search of better storage and conservation. Given the above, the objective of this work is to search the literature for reports of contamination of rice in human food, indicating the need for greater control of the product in the final stage of the production chain, that is, in the stages of culture, harvesting, storage and marketing. Therefore, a way to reduce the possibility of causing diseases to humans due to the load of pesticides applied during their production.
Electromyography in muscle activation lumbar region in a comparison between manual therapy and photobiomodulation associated with kinesiotherapy in individuals with low back pain
Authors: Gonçalvez Maielen Teixeira , Vieceli Aline Santos , Rigon Tayane Cristina , Bertolino Guilherme , Neves Lais Mara Siqueira das , Fonseca Marisa de Cassia Registro , Barbosa Rafael Inácio , Kuriki Heloyse Uliam , Marcolino Alexandre Marcio
Published: July 2022

Introduction: About 10 million people have low back pain (LBP) disability in Brazil, and several therapies are used to treat this condition, such as kinesiotherapy, manual therapy (MT) and photobiomodulation-PBM. Although studies have investigated the use of these methods in LBP, research seeking to evaluate the efficacy of the association between techniques is still needed. Objective: To evaluate the activation of the muscles lumbar region with the influence of PBM and MT associated with kinesiotherapy in the treatment of LBP. Methods: Twenty individuals with chronic LBP were randomly divided into two groups. The first group (MT) received vertebral mobilization associated with a kinesiotherapy exercise program, while the second group (830nm-PBM) received PBM associated with the exercise program, twice a week for 8 weeks. It was performed an evaluation of pain perceived by the visual analogic scale (VAS), lumbar disability by the Oswestry questionnaire, muscle strength by strain gauge and activation through surface electromyography, before and after the treatment protocol. EMG data analysis was performed by MatLab® software. The ANOVA two-way test was used (degree of significance p≤0.05), and the effects size by Hedge test. Results: Considering pain, the two groups presented a significant result (p<0.05). In muscle activation only the multifidus obtained different during side bridge (p<0.05) when compared intragroups. But none of the variables were different when evaluating intergroups. Conclusion: Both MT and PBM associated with kinesiotherapy for 8 weeks are effective in reducing pain, improving motor control and stability of the lumbar spine in patients with chronic LBP.
ATP binding facilitates target search of SWR1 chromatin remodeler by promoting one-dimensional diffusion on DNA
Authors: Carcamo Claudia C , Poyton Matthew F , Ranjan Anand , Park Giho , Louder Robert K , Feng Xinyu A , Kim Jee Min , Dzu Thuc , Wu Carl , Ha Taekjip
Published: July 2022

One-dimensional (1D) target search is a well-characterized phenomenon for many DNA-binding proteins but is poorly understood for chromatin remodelers. Herein, we characterize the 1D scanning properties of SWR1, a conserved yeast chromatin remodeler that performs histone exchange on +1 nucleosomes adjacent to a nucleosome-depleted region (NDR) at gene promoters. We demonstrate that SWR1 has a kinetic binding preference for DNA of NDR length as opposed to gene-body linker length DNA. Using single and dual color single-particle tracking on DNA stretched with optical tweezers, we directly observe SWR1 diffusion on DNA. We found that various factors impact SWR1 scanning, including ATP which promotes diffusion through nucleotide binding rather than ATP hydrolysis. A DNA-binding subunit, Swc2, plays an important role in the overall diffusive behavior of the complex, as the subunit in isolation retains similar, although faster, scanning properties as the whole remodeler. ATP-bound SWR1 slides until it encounters a protein roadblock, of which we tested dCas9 and nucleosomes. The median diffusion coefficient, 0.024 μm2/s, in the regime of helical sliding, would mediate rapid encounter of NDR-flanking nucleosomes at length scales found in cellular chromatin.
On the flexibility of the cellular amination network in E coli
Authors: Schulz-Mirbach Helena , Müller Alexandra , Wu Tong , Pfister Pascal , Aslan Selçuk , Schada von Borzyskowski Lennart , Erb Tobias J , Bar-Even Arren , Lindner Steffen N
Published: July 2022

Ammonium (NH4+) is essential to generate the nitrogenous building blocks of life. It gets assimilated via the canonical biosynthetic routes to glutamate and is further distributed throughout metabolism via a network of transaminases. To study the flexibility of this network, we constructed an Escherichia coli glutamate auxotrophic strain. This strain allowed us to systematically study which amino acids serve as amine sources. We found that several amino acids complemented the auxotrophy either by producing glutamate via transamination reactions or by their conversion to glutamate. In this network, we identified aspartate transaminase AspC as a major connector between many amino acids and glutamate. Additionally, we extended the transaminase network by the amino acids β-alanine, alanine, glycine, and serine as new amine sources and identified d-amino acid dehydrogenase (DadA) as an intracellular amino acid sink removing substrates from transaminase reactions. Finally, ammonium assimilation routes producing aspartate or leucine were introduced. Our study reveals the high flexibility of the cellular amination network, both in terms of transaminase promiscuity and adaptability to new connections and ammonium entry points.
A network of cytosolic (co)chaperones promotes the biogenesis of mitochondrial signal-anchored outer membrane proteins
Authors: Drwesh Layla , Heim Benjamin , Graf Max , Kehr Linda , Hansen-Palmus Lea , Franz-Wachtel Mirita , Macek Boris , Kalbacher Hubert , Buchner Johannes , Rapaport Doron
Published: July 2022

Signal-anchored (SA) proteins are anchored into the mitochondrial outer membrane (OM) via a single transmembrane segment at their N-terminus while the bulk of the proteins is facing the cytosol. These proteins are encoded by nuclear DNA, translated on cytosolic ribosomes, and are then targeted to the organelle and inserted into its OM by import factors. Recently, research on the insertion mechanisms of these proteins into the mitochondrial OM have gained a lot of attention. In contrast, the early cytosolic steps of their biogenesis are unresolved. Using various proteins from this category and a broad set of in vivo, in organello, and in vitro assays, we reconstituted the early steps of their biogenesis. We identified a subset of molecular (co)chaperones that interact with newly synthesized SA proteins, namely, Hsp70 and Hsp90 chaperones and co-chaperones from the Hsp40 family like Ydj1 and Sis1. These interactions were mediated by the hydrophobic transmembrane segments of the SA proteins. We further demonstrate that interfering with these interactions inhibits the biogenesis of SA proteins to a various extent. Finally, we could demonstrate direct interaction of peptides corresponding to the transmembrane segments of SA proteins with the (co)chaperones and reconstitute in vitro the transfer of such peptides from the Hsp70 chaperone to the mitochondrial Tom70 receptor. Collectively, this study unravels an array of cytosolic chaperones and mitochondrial import factors that facilitates the targeting and membrane integration of mitochondrial SA proteins.
Selective endocytosis controls slit diaphragm maintenance and dynamics in Drosophila nephrocytes
Authors: Lang Konrad , Milosavljevic Julian , Heinkele Helena , Chen Mengmeng , Gerstner Lea , Spitz Dominik , Kayser Severine , Helmstädter Martin , Walz Gerd , Köttgen Michael , Spracklen Andrew , Poulton John , Hermle Tobias
Published: July 2022

The kidneys generate about 180 l of primary urine per day by filtration of plasma. An essential part of the filtration barrier is the slit diaphragm, a multiprotein complex containing nephrin as major component. Filter dysfunction typically manifests with proteinuria and mutations in endocytosis regulating genes were discovered as causes of proteinuria. However, it is unclear how endocytosis regulates the slit diaphragm and how the filtration barrier is maintained without either protein leakage or filter clogging. Here, we study nephrin dynamics in podocyte-like nephrocytes of Drosophila and show that selective endocytosis either by dynamin- or flotillin-mediated pathways regulates a stable yet highly dynamic architecture. Short-term manipulation of endocytic functions indicates that dynamin-mediated endocytosis of ectopic nephrin restricts slit diaphragm formation spatially while flotillin-mediated turnover of nephrin within the slit diaphragm is needed to maintain filter permeability by shedding of molecules bound to nephrin in endosomes. Since slit diaphragms cannot be studied in vitro and are poorly accessible in mouse models, this is the first analysis of their dynamics within the slit diaphragm multiprotein complex. Identification of the mechanisms of slit diaphragm maintenance will help to develop novel therapies for proteinuric renal diseases that are frequently limited to symptomatic treatment.
Wedelolactone facilitates the early development of parthenogenetically activated porcine embryos by reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting autophagy
Authors: Wang Xin-Qin , Liu Rong-Ping , Wang Jing , Luo Dan , Li Ying-Hua , Jiang Hao , Xu Yong-Nan , Kim Nam-Hyung
Published: July 2022

Wedelolactone (WDL) is a coumaryl ether compound extracted from the traditional Chinese medicinal plant, Eclipta prostrata L. It is a natural polyphenol that exhibits a variety of pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-free radical, and antioxidant activities in the bone, brain, and ovary. However, its effect on embryonic development remains unknown. The present study explored the influence of WDL supplementation of porcine oocytes culture in vitro on embryonic development and the underlying mechanisms and its effect on the levels of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1/nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2/antioxidant response element (Keap1/Nrf2/ARE). The results showed that WDL (2.5 nM) significantly increased the blastocyst formation rate, mitochondrial activity, and proliferation ability while reducing the reactive oxygen species accumulation, apoptosis, and autophagy. These findings suggested that WDL can enhance the growth and development of early porcine embryos to alleviate oxidative stress and autophagy through regulating NRF2 and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (MAP1LC3) gene expression levels.
On the Simulation of Higher Order Linear Block Algorithm for Modelling Fourth Order Initial Value Problems
Authors: Sabo J. , Skwame Y. , Donald J. Z.
Published: July 2022

The introduction of new linear block method for the direct simulation of fourth order IVPs has been developed in this article. The reason for adopting direct simulation of fourth order initial value problems is to address some setbacks in reduction method. When developing the method, we adopted the linear block approach through a one step method. We have validated the accuracy of the method on some fourth order initial value problems without reduction process, and the results are better than the conventional method. The numerical experiments were given and the results obtained were found to be better in accuracy than the existing methods in literature.
Drought Analysis in Southern Agroclimatic Zone of Tamil Nadu using Standardized Precipitation Index
Authors: Lalmuanzuala B. , Sathyamoorthy N. K. , Kokilavani S. , Jagadeeswaran R. , Kannan Balaji
Published: July 2022

Drought differs from other natural hazards in the fact that the initiation and the termination is extremely difficult to determine and that its drastic effects continue to persist well after the cessation of the event which adds to the complexity as well as the casualties. The Southern Agro Climatic Zone (ACZ) of Tamil Nadu is heavily rain shadowed during the South West Monsoon Season, several complications arise with respect to drought, causing crop failures and depleted moisture concentration in certain cases. With that idea in perspective, a study was conducted in Agro Climate Research Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India to study the frequency of drought over the Southern Agro-Climatic Zone of Tamil Nadu, India. Since precipitation that occurs over a region determines mainly the occurrence and cessation of drought events, precipitation-based Rainfall Deviation and Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) was used to quantify the extent of rainfall deficit or surplus over the region. The analysis of 30 years (1991 – 2020) historical rainfall data of various districts of the Southern Agroclimatic Zone of Tamil Nadu using SPI showed that the annual SPI value ranged from +3.3 to -4. The study showed that Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi districts were most prone to moderate drought and severe drought. The region showed more frequency of Moderate drought than Severe and Extreme drought.
Leopold Sedar Senghor e a Negritude
Authors: Oliveira Waldir Freitas
Published: July 2022

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The first crystal structure of a xylobiose‐bound xylobiohydrolase with high functional specificity from the bacterial glycoside hydrolase family 30, subfamily 10
Authors: St John Franz J. , Crooks Casey , Kim Youngchang , Tan Kemin , Joachimiak Andrzej
Published: July 2022

Xylobiose is a prebiotic sugar that has applications in functional foods. This report describes the first X‐ray crystallographic structure models of apo and xylobiose‐bound forms of a xylobiohydrolase (XBH) from Acetivibrio clariflavus. This xylan‐active enzyme, a member of the recently described glycoside hydrolase family 30 (GH30), subfamily 10, phylogenetic clade has been shown to strictly release xylobiose as its primary hydrolysis product. Inspection of the apo structure reveals a glycone region X2‐binding slot. When X2 binds, the non‐reducing xylose in the −2 subsite is highly coordinated with numerous hydrogen bond contacts while contacts in the −1 subsite mostly reflect interactions typical for GH30 and enzymes in clan A of the carbohydrate‐active enzymes database (CAZy). This structure provides an explanation for the high functional specificity of this new bacterial GH30 XBH subfamily.
The fast calibration model for dosimetry with an electronic portal imaging device
Authors: Schade Stephanie , Engenhart‐Cabillic Rita , Zink Klemens , Czarnecki Damian
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study was to develop an algorithm that corrects the image of an electronic portal imaging device (EPID) of a linear accelerator so that it can be used for dosimetric purposes, such as in vivo dosimetry or quality assurance for photon radiotherapy. For that purpose, the impact of the field size, phantom thickness, and the varying spectral photon distribution within the irradiation field on the EPID image was investigated.

Methods

The EPID measurements were verified using reference measurements with ionization chambers. Therefore, absolute dose measurements with an ionization chamber and relative dose measurements with a detector array were performed. An EPID calibration and correction algorithm was developed to convert the EPID image to a dose distribution. The algorithm was validated by irradiating inhomogeneous phantoms using square fields as well as irregular IMRT fields.

Results

It was possible to correct the influence of the field size, phantom thickness on the EPID signal as well as the homogenization of the image profile by several correction factors within 0.6%. A gamma index analysis (3%, 3 mm) of IMRT fields showed a pass rate of above 99%, when comparing to the planning system.

Conclusion

The developed algorithm enables an online dose measurement with the EPID during the radiation treatment. The algorithm is characterized by a robust, non‐iterative, and thus real‐time capable procedure with little measuring effort and does not depend on system‐specific parameters. The EPID image is corrected by multiplying three independent correction factors. Therefore, it can easily be extent by further correction factors for other influencing variables, so it can be transferred to other linear accelerators and EPID configurations.
Robust and Flexible 3D Photothermal Evaporator with Heat Storage for High‐Performance Solar‐Driven Evaporation
Authors: Liang Yunzheng , Guo Jiacheng , Li Jing‐Jing , Mao Jian , Xie An‐Quan , Zhu Liangliang , Chen Su
Published: July 2022

Solar‐driven interfacial steam generation serves as an alternative strategy to alleviate the emergency of the global freshwater shortage. Compared to traditional 2D evaporators, 3D evaporators have drawn further attention for their excellent evaporation performance. However, large volume 3D evaporators suffer from problems related to higher vulnerability to damage and less portable storage. Worse still, 3D evaporators equally behave poorly in dark conditions. Herein, a robust and flexible 3D hydrogel/fiber evaporator mounted with solid–solid phase change materials (SPCMs) for efficient photothermal desalination is reported. The hydrogel fills the spaces of fibers and not only forms a topology‐like structure to strengthen the sunlight absorption (≈0.1% optical transmittance and ≈10% reflectance), but also reinforces the mechanical strength and elasticity of the evaporator (≈4 MPa tensile strength and ≈23 MPa Young's modulus). Notably, highly thermally‐conductive SPCMs fulfill a dual function under light‐dark conditions, facilitating a 3D evaporator for absorbing energy from high‐temperature environment under daylight, and releasing latent heat to sustain evaporation when light is turned off, ultimately achieving evaporation rates of 3.80 and 0.31 kg m–2 h–1 under different conditions. Such a durable 3D hydrogel/fiber evaporator with dramatic evaporation performance opens up promising prospects for freshwater production in remote areas.
Skin‐Inspired Thermoreceptors‐Based Electronic Skin for Biomimicking Thermal Pain Reflexes
Authors: Neto João , Chirila Radu , Dahiya Abhishek Singh , Christou Adamos , Shakthivel Dhayalan , Dahiya Ravinder
Published: July 2022

Electronic systems possessing skin‐like morphology and functionalities (electronic skins [e‐skins]) have attracted considerable attention in recent years to provide sensory or haptic feedback in growing areas such as robotics, prosthetics, and interactive systems. However, the main focus thus far has been on the distributed pressure or force sensors. Herein a thermoreceptive e‐skin with biological systems like functionality is presented. The soft, distributed, and highly sensitive miniaturized (≈700 µm2) artificial thermoreceptors (ATRs) in the e‐skin are developed using an innovative fabrication route that involves dielectrophoretic assembly of oriented vanadium pentoxide nanowires at defined locations and high‐resolution electrohydrodynamic printing. Inspired from the skin morphology, the ATRs are embedded in a thermally insulating soft nanosilica/epoxy polymeric layer and yet they exhibit excellent thermal sensitivity (−1.1 ± 0.3% °C−1), fast response (≈1s), exceptional stability (negligible hysteresis for >5 h operation), and mechanical durability (up to 10 000 bending and twisting loading cycles). Finally, the developed e‐skin is integrated on the fingertip of a robotic hand and a biological system like reflex is demonstrated in response to temperature stimuli via localized learning at the hardware level.
Fatty acids, sterols, and tocopherols composition in seed oil extracts from four moroccan ecotypes of Ceratonia siliqua L.
Authors: Yatim Meriem , El Kahkahi Rahal , El‐Askri Taoufik , El Oirdi Samia , Benhnini Fouad , El Yaacoubi Adnane , Mouhajir Abdelmounaim , Amechrouq Ali , Rahou Abdelilah , Hafidi Majida , Zouhair Rachid
Published: July 2022

Morphological characterization was investigated by agro‐morphological criteria related to carob seed size in four different moroccan regions collected in 2018 and 2019. There was no significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) on the seeds lengths and widths. However, a significant difference between seeds thickness and total seeds weight per pod (p ≤ 0.05) were observed between these four populations. The fatty acid, sterol, tocopherol, hydrocarbon, and the unoxygenated composition of carob seed extracts (Ceratonia siliqua L.) were studied. The mean fat yield of the seeds obtained is 1.53%–2.17%, 2.14%–2.15%, 1.61%–1.62%, 1.71%–1.75% for, respectively, the P1 (Meknes), P2 (Fez), P3 (Khemisset), and P4 (Marrakech) in 2018 and 2019. The seed oil was extracted with hexane and the analysis of the fatty fraction was performed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Results show that the major fatty acids for 2018 and 2019 are linoleic acid (61.48%–61.52%, 52.12%–52.14%, 57.76%–58.15%, 61.33%–61.52%), palmitic acid (15.78%–15.81%, 16.44%–16.45%, 19.11%–18.37%, 20.24%–20.32%), oleic acid (11.03%–11.04%, 8.72%–8.82%, 8.51%–8.61%, 8.41%–8.53%), stearic acid (4.35%–3.14%, 5.40%–5.43%, 3.12%–3.13%, 0.96%–1.56%), and cerotic acid (0.62%–0.53%, 4.51%–4.52%, 4.03%–4.06%, 3.84%–3.87%). The unsaturated fatty acids (69.39% in 2018 and 69.68% in 2019) are the most dominant in the four seed extracts compared to the saturated fatty acids. In addition, the oil carob seeds analysis revealed the presence of γ‐tocopherol, α‐tocopherol and four sterols that included campesterol, stigmasterol, and β‐sitosterol. Moreover, the determination of hydrocarbon and un‐oxygenated compounds confirmed the existence of major compounds such as heptadecane, 2‐methyltriacontane, 1‐iodo hexadecane and 1‐iodo octadecane. The hierarchical analysis based on the morphological and chromatographic characterization of the seeds allowed the identification of three groups. Consequently, the first group consisted of populations from Marrakesh (P4) and Khemisset (P3), the second group consisted of the P1 from Meknes, and the P2 from Fez constituted the third group.
GeFSIX‐1‐Cu based semi‐interpenetrating network mixed matrix membranes for efficient CO2 separation
Authors: Cheng Jun , Hou Wen , Liu Niu , Yang Chen , Zhou Junhu
Published: July 2022

In order to increase CO2 separation efficiency, semi‐interpenetrating network mixed matrix membranes (SIPN‐MMMs) were loaded with GeFSIX‐1‐Cu (Cu(4,4′‐bipyridine)2(GeF6)) and poly ethylene glycol dimethyl ether (PEGDME). Two long‐chain polymers poly ethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) and poly ethylene glycol methyl ether acrylate (PEGMEA) jointly constituted a crosslinked PEO backbone, and CO2‐philic short‐chain polymer PEGDME and anion‐pillared hybrid porous materials GeFSIX‐1‐Cu were embedded into the backbone to introduce strong CO2 adsorption sites and provide extra pore channels. Increasing GeFSIX‐1‐Cu loading in SIPN‐MMMs initially improved CO2 permeability and CO2/N2, CO2/CH4, and CO2/H2 selectivity, because the porous structure of GeFSIX‐1‐Cu provides additional pore channels for gas transport. In addition, the strong binding affinity between GeF62− and CO2 leads to improved membrane selectivity. When GeFSIX‐1‐Cu loading increased above 3 wt%, both CO2 permeability and CO2/N2, CO2/CH4, and CO2/H2 selectivity decreased, due to agglomeration of excess GeFSIX‐1‐Cu loading in SIPN‐MMMs. The highest CO2 permeability of 786 Barrer and CO2/N2 ideal selectivity of 43 (at GeFSIX‐1‐Cu loading of 3 wt%) were 36% and 38% higher than those of pure SIPN membrane, respectively, resolving the trade‐off between permeability and selectivity, and surpassing the Robeson upper bound (2008).
Mycetoma by Actinomadura madurae in the central nervous system: Renal transplant receptor disease
Authors: Cerrillos‐Gutiérrez José Ignacio , Ramírez‐Flores Diana , Gutiérrez‐Govea Alfredo , Andrade‐Sierra Jorge , Medina‐Pérez Miguel , Rojas‐Campos Enrique
Published: July 2022

The mycetoma is a granulomatous chronic disease, subcutaneous disease is the common presentation, very few cases are reported affecting central nervous system, but there are not cases in Renal Transplant (RT).
Application of finite element analysis to tissue differentiation and bone remodelling approaches and their use in design optimization of orthopaedic implants: A review
Authors: Ghosh Rajdeep , Chanda Souptick , Chakraborty Debabrata
Published: July 2022

Post‐operative bone growth and long‐term bone adaptation around the orthopaedic implants are simulated using the mechanoregulation based tissue‐differentiation and adaptive bone remodelling algorithms, respectively. The primary objective of these algorithms was to assess biomechanical feasibility and reliability of orthopaedic implants. This article aims to offer a comprehensive review of the developments in mathematical models of tissue‐differentiation and bone adaptation and their applications in studies involving design optimization of orthopaedic implants over three decades. Despite the different mechanoregulatory models developed, existing literature confirm that none of the models can be highly regarded or completely disregarded over each other. Not much development in mathematical formulations has been observed from the current state of knowledge due to the lack of in vivo studies involving clinically relevant animal models, which further retarded the development of such models to use in translational research at a fast pace. Future investigations involving artificial intelligence (AI), soft‐computing techniques and combined tissue‐differentiation and bone‐adaptation studies involving animal subjects for model verification are needed to formulate more sophisticated mathematical models to enhance the accuracy of pre‐clinical testing of orthopaedic implants.
Multiple introductions and overwintering shape the progressive invasion of Aedes albopictus beyond the Alps
Authors: Vavassori Laura , Honnen Ann‐Christin , Saarman Norah , Caccone Adalgisa , Müller Pie
Published: July 2022

Aedes albopictus originates from Southeast Asia and is considered one of the most invasive species globally. This mosquito is a nuisance and a disease vector of significant public health relevance. In Europe, Ae. albopictus is firmly established and widespread south of the Alps, a mountain range that forms a formidable biogeographic barrier to many organisms. Recent reports of Ae. albopictus north of the Alps raise questions of (1) the origins of its recent invasion, and (2) if this mosquito has established overwintering populations north of the Alps. To answer these questions, we analyzed population genomic data from >4000 genome‐wide SNPs obtained through double‐digest restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing. We collected SNP data from specimens from six sites in Switzerland, north and south of the Alps, and analyzed them together with specimens from other 33 European sites, five from the Americas, and five from its Asian native range. At a global level, we detected four genetic clusters with specimens from Indonesia, Brazil, and Japan as the most differentiated, whereas specimens from Europe, Hong Kong, and USA largely overlapped. Across the Alps, we detected a weak genetic structure and high levels of genetic admixture, supporting a scenario of rapid and human‐aided dispersal along transportation routes. While the genetic pattern suggests frequent re‐introductions into Switzerland from Italian sources, the recovery of a pair of full siblings in two consecutive years in Strasbourg, France, suggests the presence of an overwintering population north of the Alps. The suggestion of overwintering populations of Ae. albopictus north of the Alps and the expansion patterns identified points to an increased risk of further northward expansion and the need for increased surveillance of mosquito populations in Northern Europe.
Bilateral climate finance and food security in developing countries: A look at German donations to Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Doku Isaac , Richardson Theophilus Edward , Essah Nicholas Kwame
Published: July 2022

This study seeks to assess whether the German bilateral climate finance (GCF) geared toward the agriculture sector of 35 SSA countries is helping achieve food security. In measuring food security, the study employed principal component analysis to generate an index for all four food security dimensions proposed by FAOSTAT‐food availability, access, stability, and utilization. A general composite food security index was also generated. System‐GMM was used to estimate the influence of GCF on all the food security components. The findings show that GCF improves food availability and general food security in SSA, but government expenditure is inadequate to do so. It was also found that agricultural technology or capacity moderates the effect of GCF on food availability and overall food security. Based on the findings of the study, it is clear that bilateral climate finance flow invested in agricultural technology coupled with an increase in government agricultural expenditure from the current 6% to 10% as proposed by the Malabo declaration will put SSA on a path to achieving food security. It is recommended that SSA countries deepen incentives to attract FDI inflows to the region due to its role in improving food security via food access.
The effects of land‐use conversion on evapotranspiration and water balance of subtropical forest and managed tea plantation in Taihu Lake Basin, China
Authors: Geng Jianwei , Li Hengpeng , Pang Jiaping , Zhang Wangshou , Shi Yunjie
Published: July 2022

Widespread clearing of natural forests for tea plantations have profoundly altered the local water balance and energy budget. However, studies of comprehensive effects of land‐use conversion on energy and hydrological cycling are still rare. In this study, we used 5 years (2014–2018) of eddy covariance (EC) data, modelled estimates, and hydrological monitoring of different functional layers (canopy, litter and soil layers) to summarize the seasonal and inter‐annual variations and differences of evapotranspiration and water balance components in tea plantations (Camellia sinensis) and natural bamboo forests (Phyllostachysedulis). Results suggested the bamboo forest had higher actual evapotranspiration (ETa) (835 ± 5 mm) than the tea plantation (730 ± 19 mm), owing to differences in canopy conditions and plant physiology. Evident differences in ETa components were found between the tea plantation site and the bamboo forest site. The proportion of transpiration (Etr) was higher at the bamboo site (0.71–0.76) than the tea plantation site (0.60–0.65). Additionally, the soil evaporation ratio (0.10–0.13) was lower at the bamboo forest site than the tea plantation site (0.21–0.24) due to vegetation structure differences altering the radiation energy partitioning between the two sites. Moreover, the tea plantations were more susceptible to drought stress with low water storage in soil and simple rhizome‐root system. The comprehensive water holding capacity of canopy, litter, and soil layers of bamboo forest was 1.0–1.8 times of that in tea plantation. Compared with bamboo forest, pruning and losing of soil with intensive management activities enhanced drainage at the tea plantation site. This study provides insights into land‐use conversion of subtropical forest and managed tea plantation that have important implications on regional energy and water budgets.
Repurposing alpelisib, an anti‐cancer drug, for the treatment of severe TIE2‐mutated venous malformations: Preliminary pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic data
Authors: Remy Amandine , Tran Thai Hoa , Dubois Josée , Gavra Paul , Lapointe Chantal , Winikoff Rochelle , Facundo Garcia‐Bournissen , Théorêt Yves , Kleiber Niina
Published: July 2022

Extensive venous malformations involving limbs severely impact quality of life, mostly due to chronic pain and functional limitations. But patients can also display coagulopathy with associated risks of life‐threatening thromboembolism and bleeding. Available pharmacological treatments (e.g., sirolimus) are not universally effective. Novel therapies are urgently needed for patients with treatment‐resistant venous malformations. We report three patients with TIE‐2 receptor mutations treated with alpelisib for 6 months (daily dosing: 50 mg for children weighing <50 kg and 100 mg for those >50 kg). Pain was controlled, gait improved, size of the abnormal venous network decreased, and coagulopathy dramatically improved. Drug exposure was highly variable, suggesting that alpelisib dosing should be individualized to patient's characteristics and guided by therapeutic drug monitoring.
A novel numerical method to evaluate the thermal conductivity of the unidirectional fiber‐reinforced composites
Authors: Cai Heng , Ye Junjie , Xi Jiale , Hong Yun , Shi Yang , Wang Yongkun , He Wangpei
Published: July 2022

In this study, an effective microscale method based on the parametric modeling scheme of the finite volume method is improved to evaluate the effective thermal conductivity and localized thermal fields of the fiber‐reinforced composites. By comparing with the finite element method and experimental data, it is indicated that the proposed microscale method exhibits a high accuracy in solving their effective properties. On this basis, the mesh sensitivity and fiber volume fraction influence on the thermal conductivity are both investigated. The number of 36 × 36 sub‐cells is employed as the RVE model to balance the computational efficiency and simulating accuracy. In addition, affected by the thermal conductivity and microstructure of constituent materials, the heat flux distribution near the interface between phenolic resin matrix and glass fiber is relatively uniform. The study on the influencing factors of the volume fraction shows that the equivalent thermal conductivity increases slowly at the low volume fraction, while the growth rate of the equivalent thermal conductivity increases significantly at the high‐volume fraction.
Compacted N‐Doped 3D Bicontinuous Nanoporous Graphene/Carbon Nanotubes@Ni‐Doped MnO2 Electrode for Ultrahigh Volumetric Performance All‐Solid‐State Supercapacitors at Wide Temperature Range
Authors: Qin Kaiqiang , Baucom Jesse , Diao Lechen , Lu Yunfeng , Zhao Naiqin
Published: July 2022

Developing wide temperature range flexible solid‐state supercapacitors with high volumetric energy density is highly desirable to meet the demands of the rapidly developing field of miniature consumer electronic devices and promote their widespread adoption. Herein, high‐quality dense N‐doped 3D porous graphene/carbon nanotube (N‐3DG/CNTs) hybrid films are prepared and used as the substrate for the growth of Ni‐doped MnO2 (Ni‐MnO2). The integrated and interconnected architecture endows N‐3DG/CNTs@Ni‐MnO2 composite electrodes’ high conductivity and fast ion/electron transport pathway. Subsequently, 2.4 V solid‐state supercapacitors are fabricated based on compacted N‐3DG/CNTs@Ni‐MnO2 positive electrodes, which exhibit an ultrahigh volumetric energy density of 78.88 mWh cm‐3 based on the entire device including electrodes, solid‐state electrolyte, and packing films, excellent cycling stability up to 10 000 cycles, and a wide operating temperature range from −20 to 70 °C. This work demonstrates a design of flexible solid‐state supercapacitors with exceptional volumetric performance capable of operation under extreme conditions.
Animal obesity: What insights can a one health approach offer when it comes to veterinarians ‘making every contact count’?
Authors: Lynden Jenny , Hollands Teresa , Ogden Jane
Published: July 2022

There is an overweight/obesity crisis in both human and companion animal populations globally. Veterinarians have an ethical obligation to protect animal welfare and, therefore, have a duty to intervene by supporting their clients in changing care plans to mitigate and prevent pet overweight/obesity. Currently, there is limited evidence in veterinary contexts for when and how this can be done effectively. In contrast, a more comprehensive body of literature has been developed on how human healthcare practitioners ‘make every contact count’ (MECC). This review begins by briefly exploring the cross‐species multifactorial causes of overweight/obesity, before considering the literature regarding whether veterinarians reliably address overweight/obesity and the obstacles they encounter. The review then explores the evidence from human healthcare contexts in terms of how person‐centred and health ‘coaching‐style’ MECC interventions have supported weight management in adult and child populations and the barriers practitioners face when implementing these interventions. The final section interprets this literature to provide a fresh ‘lens’ through which veterinarians' concerns can be understood. Recommendations are made for enhancing veterinarians’ capacity to develop the knowledge and skills needed for successful outcomes when MECC. Opportunities for developing local multi‐stakeholder/agency teams taking a ‘one health’ approach are considered.