bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of patella alignment with cartilage relaxation times and self‐reported symptoms in individuals with patellofemoral degeneration
Authors: Liao Tzu‐Chieh , Pedoia Valentina , Link Thomas M. , Majumdar Sharmila , Souza Richard B.
Published: May 2022

To determine the cross‐sectional and longitudinal associations of patella alignment with cartilage relaxation and patients' self‐reported symptoms. Thirty participants with isolated patellofemoral joint (PFJ) degeneration (six males, 53.7 ± 9.3 years) and 24 controls (12 males, 47.6 ± 10.7 years) were included. Magnetic resonance assessment was performed to provide grading of structural abnormalities, cartilage relaxation times, and patella alignment. Self‐reported symptoms were assessed using the self‐administrated knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS). All participants were examined at baseline and 3 years. Statistical parametric mapping and Pearson partial correlation were used to evaluate the associations between patella alignment with cartilage relaxation times and self‐reported symptoms, respectively. The analyses were performed between baseline (cross‐sectional) as well as the baseline against 3 years (longitudinal). Results indicated that patella height and patella flexion were associated with T1ρ and T2 relaxation times at baseline (percentages of voxels showing significant correlation [PSV] = 10.1%–24.8%; mean correlations [R] = 0.34–0.36; mean p = 0.015–0.026). Furthermore, greater patella lateral alignment, lateral tilt, and lateral spin were associated with longer T2 times at 3 years (PSV = 11.0%–14.4%, R = 0.39–0.44, p = 0.017–0.028). Last, a higher patella was associated with a lower KOOS at baseline and at 3 years (R = −0.33 to −0.35). The study suggests that patella malalignment is a risk factor for worsening cartilage health, informing clinicians of a better rehabilitation program that targets PFJ degeneration.
Enantioseparation of N‐methyl duloxetine, duloxetine, and fluoxetine by countercurrent chromatography using anionic β‐cyclodextrin as chiral selector
Authors: Sun Wenyu , Chen Ben , You Haibo , Fang Liqun , Qian Junqing , Tong Shengqiang
Published: May 2022

Two anionic β‐cyclodextrins as chiral selectors were successfully applied in the enantioseparation of N‐methyl duloxetine, duloxetine, and fluoxetine by countercurrent chromatography. Sulfobutyl ether‐β‐cyclodextrin and carboxymethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin showed opposite enantioselectivity for both duloxetine and N‐methyl duloxetine enantiomers. Two biphasic solvent systems, n‐hexane: 0.1 mol/L phosphate buffer pH 7.6 with 50 mmol/L of sulfobutyl ether‐β‐cyclodextrin (1:1, v/v) and n‐hexane: 0.1 mol/L phosphate buffer pH 7.2 with 50 mmol/L of carboxymethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (1:1, v/v), were selected for N‐methyl duloxetine. Enantioseparation of duloxetine was achieved by recycling countercurrent chromatography using a solvent system composed of n‐butyl acetate: 0.1 mol/L phosphate buffer pH 7.2 with 20 mmol/L of sulfobutyl ether‐β‐cyclodextrin or carboxymethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (1:1, v/v). A solvent system composed of n‐hexane: n‐butyl acetate: 0.1 mol/L phosphate buffer pH 7.6 containing 20 mmol/L of sulfobutyl ether‐β‐cyclodextrin (6:4:10, v/v) was selected for enantioseparation of fluoxetine.
Transforming the treatment of psoriasis to the 21st century: Detecting subclinical therapeutic response to secukinumab using optical coherence tomography as a prognostic indicator
Authors: Felice Skye , Bressler Moshe Y. , Karim Raisa , Markowitz Orit
Published: May 2022

Background

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a noninvasive imaging device that scans the skin up to 2 mm in depth. OCT can capture real‐time epidermal thickness (ET) measurements and detect subclinical changes in inflammatory skin diseases like eczema and psoriasis. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Objective

To determine if measuring ET with OCT can detect a subclinical therapeutic response in psoriasis treated with the biological therapy, secukinumab (an IL‐17A antagonist).

Design

Phase IV, single‐center, open‐label, and single‐arm study.

Participants

Twenty‐six consecutive patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.

Measurements

Clinical, dermoscopic, and OCT images were obtained at each visit. The clinician measured disease severity with the Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) and Psoriasis Area And Severity Index (PASI). OCT was used to scan the ET at the center of lesional skin (ET‐L), along the border, and normal skin (ET‐N) on the same body plane; their difference was noted as ΔET.

Results

Initially, ET‐L was greater than ET‐N (p < 0.0001), their differences decreased throughout the study, and there were no significant differences at Week 16 (p = 0.48). Twenty‐four (92%) patients achieved a 50% reduction in PASI score (PASI50); they had lower ΔET at Weeks 0, 1, 3, 4, and 8 compared to those who did not clear (p < 0.04). Having a lower ΔET at Week 4 was associated with a shorter time to reach PASI50 (p = 0.02).

Conclusion

ET measurements using OCT can detect an early subclinical response to secukinumab compared to clinical scoring and identify nonresponders as early as 4 weeks.
Total ice content and lipid saturation determine adipose tissue cryolipolysis by injection of ice‐slurry
Authors: Ni Peiyun , Farinelli William A. , Cheng Leo L. , Farrar Christian T. , Motamarry Anjan , Moradi Tuchayi Sara , Wang Ying , Anderson Richard Rox , Garibyan Lilit
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Cryolipolysis uses tissue cooling to solidify lipids, preferentially damaging lipid‐rich cells. Topical cooling is popular for the reduction of local subcutaneous fat. Injection of biocompatible ice‐slurry is a recently introduced alternative. We developed and verified a quantitative model that simulates the heat exchange and phase changes involved, offering insights into ice‐slurry injection for treating subcutaneous fat.

Methods

Finite element method was used to model the spatial and temporal progression of heat transfer between adipose tissue and injected ice‐slurry, estimating dose‐response relationships between properties of the slurry and size of tissue affected by cryolipolysis. Phase changes of both slurry and adipose tissue lipids were considered. An in vivo swine model was used to validate the numerical solutions. Oils with different lipid compositions were exposed to ice‐slurry in vitro to evaluate the effects of lipid freezing temperature. Microscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) were performed to detect lipid phase changes.

Results

A ball of granular ice was deposited at the injection site in subcutaneous fat. Total injected ice content determines both the effective cooling region of tissue, and the duration of tissue cooling. Water's high latent heat of fusion enables tissue cooling long after slurry injection. Slurry temperature affects the rate of tissue cooling. In swine, when 30 ml slurry injection at −3.5°C was compared to 15 ml slurry injection at −4.8°C (both with the same total ice content), the latter led to almost twice faster tissue cooling. NMR showed a large decrease in diffusion upon lipid crystallization; saturated lipids with higher freezing temperatures were more susceptible to solidification after ice‐slurry injection.

Conclusions

Total injected ice content determines both the volume of tissue treated by cryolipolysis and the cooling duration after slurry injection, while slurry temperature affects the cooling rate. Lipid saturation, which varies with diet and anatomic location, also has an important influence.
Silk Fabric Decorated with Thermo‐Sensitive Hydrogel for Sustained Release of Paracetamol
Authors: Qiao Na , Zhang Yufan , Fang Ying , Deng Heli , Zhang Desuo , Lin Hong , Chen Yuyue , Yong Ken Tye , Xiong Jiaqing
Published: May 2022

Paracetamol is a safe and widely used antipyretic and analgesic drug, however, with the drawbacks of gastrointestinal first‐pass effect and short intervals of administration. Transdermal drug delivery system can effectively avoid the liver metabolism caused by excess oral ingestion of paracetamol. Herein, a silk fabric‐based medical dressing decorated by a thermo‐responsive hydrogel for sustained release of paracetamol is proposed. Genipin as a bio‐safe cross‐linker is applied to assist gelation of a thermo‐responsive hydrogel system coupled with chitosan and glycerol‐phosphate disodium salt around body temperature (37 °C), as well as densifying the microporous gel to improve mechanical strength. The in situ sol–gel transition enabled hydrogel well penetrate and coat the silk fabric, forming a hierarchical hydrogel structure capable of prolonging the sustained release of drug to 12 h, twice as long as a blank fabric. The silk fabric with a thin gel coating maintains a good water vapor transmission rate, compatible for skin contact application. The drug release properties can be tuned by regulating the genipin content and fabric braiding structure. The silk fabric dressing exhibits temperature‐dependent instant release behavior within the first 2 h. The sustained release mechanism of paracetamol well matches with the Korsmeyer–Peppas model in a non‐Fickian diffusion.
Single‐Cell Transcriptomic Analysis Demonstrates the Regulation of Peach Polysaccharides on Circadian Rhythm Disturbance
Authors: Sun Qiaoyu , Xu Wenqing , Liu Yanan , Zhan Shengnan , Shao Xingfeng , Wu Zufang , Weng Peifang , Cheng Kejun , Zhang Xin
Published: May 2022

Scope

Plant polysaccharides are thought to have a prebiotic effect, promoting the growth of probiotics, which may regulate circadian rhythms. This study evaluates the regulation of peach polysaccharides (PPS) on circadian rhythm disturbance through intestinal microbiota by a mouse model.

Methods and results

PPS is administered to mice with circadian rhythm disturbance for 4 weeks. The study finds that PPS ameliorated the structural disorder of intestinal microbiota induced by continuous darkness, decreasing the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B), thereby regulating furfural degradation, penicillin and cephalosporin biosynthesis, and antibiotic biosynthesis. Single‐cell transcriptomics is used to determine the type of hypothalamus cells and the expression of clock genes in mice, showing that the number of astrocytes and oligoendrocytes cells in the hypothalamus of the transplanted mice is up‐regulated, and the expression of neuroprotective genes such as Sox9 and Mobp increased. In addition, clock genes such as Cry2 and Per3 show significant callback.

Conclusion

This study shows that PPS can ameliorate the imbalance of intestinal microbiota and cell dysfunction caused by circadian rhythm disorder, suggesting that PPS is a feasible strategy for the prevention and treatment of circadian rhythm disorder and related cognitive impairment.
Resveratrol Attenuates Mast Cell Mediated Allergic Reactions: Potential for Use as a Nutraceutical in Allergic Diseases?
Authors: Civelek Mehtap , Bilotta Sabrina , Lorentz Axel
Published: May 2022

Allergic diseases are one of the most common health disorders affecting about 30% of the world population. Mast cells (MCs) are key effector cells of allergic reactions by releasing proinflammatory mediators including histamine, lipid mediators, and cytokines/chemokines. Natural substances like secondary plant substances such as resveratrol (RESV), which can contribute to prevention and treatment of diseases, are becoming increasingly interesting for use as nutraceuticals. In this review, the anti‐inflammatory effects of RESV on MC‐mediated allergic reactions in vitro and in vivo models are summarized. The studies indicate that RESV inhibits MC degranulation, synthesis of arachidonic acid metabolites, expression of cytokines and chemokines as well as activation of signal molecules involved in proinflammatory mechanisms. Also, beneficial impacts by this polyphenol are reported in randomized controlled trials with allergic rhinitis patients. Although it cannot yet be concluded that RESV can be used successfully in allergy patients in general, there are many results that indicate a possible role for RESV for use as an anti‐inflammatory nutraceutical. However, strategies to favorably influence the poor bioavailability of RESV would be helpful.
A broadband antimetal UHF tag antenna based on symmetric resonator structures
Authors: Chen Dehuai , Wang Jian , Jiang Zheng , Qian Libo
Published: May 2022

A novel broadband ultra‐high frequency radio frequency identification (RFID) tag antenna attached to the metallic surface is proposed in this paper. A rectangular wide slot combined with a U‐shaped thin slot outside is adopted in the proposed antenna, and the size of the patch can be reduced by adjusting the length of the U‐shaped slot. Furthermore, a pair of symmetric resonator structures inside the rectangular slot are connected to both ends of the chip, which can excite a new resonant mode to broaden the frequency band. All the structures above are realized by etching rectangular slits on the same surface. The antenna has the advantages of wideband, simple processing, and good reading distance, and the 10 dB bandwidth of the antenna is 30 MHz (from 895 to 925 MHz), with a maximum directional gain of −3.5 dB. The reading distance can reach more than 5.4 m on a metallic surface.
A novel bone suppression algorithm in intensity‐based 2D/3D image registration for real‐time tumor motion monitoring: Development and phantom‐based validation
Authors: Gulyas Ingo , Trnkova Petra , Knäusl Barbara , Widder Joachim , Georg Dietmar , Renner Andreas
Published: May 2022

Background

Real‐time tumor motion monitoring (TMM) is a crucial process for intra‐fractional respiration management in lung cancer radiotherapy. Since the tumor can be partly or fully located behind the ribs, the TMM is challenging.

Purpose

The aim of this work was to develop a bone suppression (BS) algorithm designed for real‐time 2D/3D marker‐less TMM to increase the visibility of the tumor when overlapping with bony structures and consequently to improve the accuracy of TMM.

Method

A BS method was implemented in the in‐house developed software for ultrafast intensity‐based 2D/3D tumor registration (Fast Image‐based Registration [FIRE]). The method operates on both, digitally reconstructed radiograph (DRR) and intra‐fractional X‐ray images. The bony structures are derived from computed tomography data by thresholding during ray‐casting, and the resulting bone DRR is subtracted from intra‐fractional X‐ray images to obtain a soft‐tissue‐only image for subsequent tumor registration. The accuracy of TMM utilizing BS was evaluated within a retrospective phantom study with nine different 3D‐printed tumor phantoms placed in the in‐house developed Advanced Radiation DOSimetry (ARDOS) breathing phantom. A 24 mm craniocaudal tumor motion, including rib eclipses, was simulated, and X‐ray images were acquired on the Elekta Versa HD Linac in the lateral and posterior–anterior directions. An error assessment for BS images was evaluated with respect to the ground truth tumor position.

Results

A total error (root mean square error) of 0.87 ± 0.23 mm and 1.03 ± 0.26 mm was found for posterior–anterior and lateral imaging; the mean time for BS was 8.03 ± 1.54 ms. Without utilizing BS, TMM failed in all X‐ray images since the registration algorithm focused on the rib position due to the predominant intensity of this tissue within DRR and X‐ray images.

Conclusion

The BS algorithm developed and implemented improved the accuracy, robustness, and stability of real‐time TMM in lung cancer in a phantom study, even in the case of rib interlude where normal tumor registration fails.
COVID‐19 seroprevalence and clinical picture in Swedish pediatric oncology and hematology patients
Authors: Sundberg Emil , Hoffman Tove , Nilsson Anna , Pahnke Simon , Enblad Gunilla , Kolstad Linda , Rönnberg Bengt , Lundkvist Åke , Torkki Milla , Zhou Otto , Anderson Jenna , Harila‐Saari Arja , Palle Josefine
Published: May 2022

Background

Children develop symptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) more rarely than adults upon infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). Pediatric oncology and hematology patients may be at increased risk of severe COVID‐19 due to their underlying disease or treatment. We investigated COVID‐19 and seroprevalence of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies, respectively, in a Swedish cohort of pediatric oncology and hematology patients.

Procedure

Patients (n = 136) were recruited between June 2020 and September 2021 at Uppsala University Children's Hospital, Sweden. Up to six consecutive blood samples per patient were analyzed for wild‐type anti‐S1 IgM and IgG antibodies (including after vaccination, n = 4). Clinical data on COVID‐19 (including polymerase chain reaction [PCR] test results) were collected from electronic medical records. A questionnaire was completed at recruitment.

Results

A cumulative seroprevalence (IgM and IgG) of 33% (45/136 patients, 95% confidence interval: 25%–41%) was observed in this patient cohort, of whom 66% (90/136 patients) were under severe immunosuppressive treatment during the study period. Increasing patient age (p = .037) and PCR test results (p < .002) were associated with seropositivity in nonvaccinated cases. Most seropositive, nonvaccinated cases (32/43, 74%) were never PCR‐verified for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Of the 13 patients with PCR‐verified infection, nine (69%) reported mild disease. A majority (63%) reported continued school attendance during the pandemic.

Conclusions

Swedish pediatric oncology and hematology patients developed antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2, despite their diagnosis and/or treatment, and the observed seroprevalence was similar to that in national pediatric outpatients. PCR‐verified cases underestimate the true incidence of COVID‐19 in this patient cohort.
Thermal, structural, and rheological modifications in recycled polyethylene terephthalate for a sustainable alternative source for additive manufacturing
Authors: Patra Nikhil Ram , Negi Yuvraj Singh
Published: May 2022

This work reports the thermal, rheological, and crystallographic structural behavior of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) derived from bottle waste. The intent is to optimize it to an upcoming source for additive manufacturing by modulating its behavior using a chain extender triphenyl phosphite (TPP), nanofiller montmorillonite (MMT K‐10), and catalyst antimony trioxide (Sb2O3). FT‐IR (Fourier Transform Infrared) analysis showed an increase in absorbance due to the Sb2O3. The thermal analysis of the rPET using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) ascertains a 10°C decrease in Tg with a substantial increase in the degradation onset of 7°C due to MMT content. The melt flow index (MFI) study showed an increase with a similar range in intrinsic viscosity and weight average molecular weight (Mw) due to the additives. The percentage crystallinity, interlayer distance, and average crystallite size are determined and analyzed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and DSC curves. The results are within the comparative range of both tests. The presence of Sb2O3 with higher MMT content showed agglomeration, and increased TPP showed low crystalline properties. These results provide that rPET can be altered to manufacture feedstock to suit different 3D printing techniques for prototyping.
Assessing the application of spot spray in Nanguo pear orchards: Effect of nozzle type, spray volume rate and adjuvant
Authors: Guo Shuang , Yao Weixiang , Xu Tongyu , Ma Hui , Sun Mujun , Chen Chunling , Lan Yubin
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Aerial spray is one of the most important applications of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in agriculture. This work aimed to promote the use of UAVs as an alternative to knapsack electric sprayers in pesticide application in Nanguo pear orchards planted in mountain terraced orchard scenarios. The spray deposition of four types of nozzles (SX110015, XR80015, IDK90015 and TR80015), two spray volume rates (45 and 90 L ha−1) and with or without a commercial surfactant adjuvant were evaluated based on the spot spray mode.

RESULTS

The air‐ assisted IDK90015 nozzle showed significantly higher deposition and penetration, and its large droplet size also reduced the risk of drift. Increasing the spray volume rate can increase the amount of droplets deposition. The adjuvant showed excellent potential to improve spray technology in Nanguo pear trees, with a mean deposition of 0.175–0.574 μL cm−2 and penetration of 3.09–66.73%. The droplet size also increased significantly, with volume median diameter (DV0.5) of 469 μm.

CONCLUSION

The nozzle type, spray volume rate and adjuvant should be well considered when using the spot spray in orchard. Compared with increasing spray volume rate, the use of air‐induction nozzles and surfactant‐based adjuvants can improve the spray deposition better. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Copper oxide nanostructures as a potential method for control of zucchini yellow mosaic virus in squash
Authors: Derbalah Aly , Abdelsalam Ibrahim , Behiry Said I. , Abdelkhalek Ahmed , Abdelfatah Mahmoud , Ismail Sherin , Elsharkawy Mohsen Mohamed
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV) infects cucurbits and has been identified as a major limiting factor in their production. The purpose of this study was to create copper oxide nanostructures (CONS) to control ZYMV in squash plants. Protection of squash against ZYMV was assessed in terms of virus severity, ZYMV concentration, transcription of pathogenesis‐related genes and growth enhancement of treated squash.

RESULTS

The findings revealed that squash plants treated with CONS had a significant reduction in disease severity when compared with untreated plants. In squash plants treated with CONS, defense genes associated with the salicylic acid signaling pathway were strongly expressed compared with untreated plants. The structural characteristics of CONS, such as their small size and appropriate shape, added to their excellent anti‐ZYMV efficacy. CONS‐treated squash plants show significantly improved growth traits compared with untreated plants.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results of this study, CONS may be a new strategy for the control of ZYMV in squash. This represents an unconventional solution to control this virus, particularly as no chemical pesticides can control viral diseases. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Laboratory evaluation of the compatibility of Beauveria bassiana with the egg parasitoid Trichogramma dendrolimi (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) for joint application against the oriental fruit moth Grapholita molesta (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
Authors: Wu Yanan , Fang Haibo , Liu Xiaoxia , Michaud J.P. , Xu Haoyang , Zhao Zhihua , Zhang Songdou , Li Zhen
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

The entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana and the egg parasitoid Trichogramma dendrolimi can both contribute to biological control of the global fruit borer Grapholita molesta. To derive insights for optimizing their combined application in augmentation programs, we assayed fungal pathogenicity to both G. molesta (eggs, larvae and adults) and adult parasitoids, and assessed wasp acquisition and transmission of fungal spores following their emergence from B. bassiana‐treated host eggs.

RESULTS

Concentrations of 108 conidia mL−1 of B. bassiana and higher caused virtually complete mortality of G. molesta larvae, but less than 30% mortality of eggs, and female moths surviving treatments had reduced fecundity. More than 80% of adult T. dendrolimi survived B. bassiana treatments of 107 conidia mL−1, and more than 60% survived 109 conidia mL−1, with surviving females achieving reproductive success equivalent to controls. Parasitoid females preferred healthy eggs over B. bassiana‐infected ones in choice tests; wasps emerging from treated eggs carried about 104 conidia each and contributed an additional 11% host mortality in trials combining both agents.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that combined applications of B. bassiana and T. dendrolimi can have complimentary impacts on G. molesta, the wasps compensating for low fungal pathogenicity to eggs and their progeny potentially aiding in subsequent disease transmission. Although foraging wasps tended to avoid infected eggs, negative interactions between the two agents might be further mitigated by timing B. bassiana applications from late instar larva to early moth stage, and T. dendrolimi releases several days later to coincide with peak oviposition periods. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic joint modeling of ixazomib efficacy and safety using data from the pivotal phase III TOURMALINE‐MM1 study in multiple myeloma patients
Authors: Srimani Jaydeep K. , Diderichsen Paul M. , Hanley Michael J. , Venkatakrishnan Karthik , Labotka Richard , Gupta Neeraj
Published: May 2022

Ixazomib is an oral proteasome inhibitor approved in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone for the treatment of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM). Approval in the United States, Europe, and additional countries was based on results from the phase III TOURMALINE‐MM1 (C16010) study. Here, joint population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic time‐to‐event (TTE) and discrete time Markov models were developed to describe key safety (rash and diarrhea events, and platelet counts) and efficacy (myeloma protein [M‐protein] and progression‐free survival [PFS]) outcomes observed in TOURMALINE‐MM1. Models reliably described observed safety and efficacy results; prior immunomodulatory drug therapy and race were significant covariates for diarrhea and rash events, respectively, whereas M‐protein dynamics were sufficiently characterized using TTE models of relapse and dropout. Moreover, baseline M‐protein was identified as a significant covariate for observed PFS. The developed framework represents an integrated approach to describing safety and efficacy with MM therapy, enabling the simulation of prospective trials and potential alternate dosing regimens.
Reliability allocation method of comprehensive weight computer numerical control machine tool based on failure correlation and factor correlation
Authors: Gu Dongwei , Xu Zhen , Zhong Yuhong , Li Qihan , Long Zhe
Published: May 2022

According to the shortage of independent hypothesis allocation models between influence factors and subsystems, a reliability allocation method considering influence factor correlation and subsystem failure correlation is proposed. The CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine tool is taken as the research object. Using Copula function to analyze failure correlation analysis between subsystems, establish subsystem complete reliability model and integrated importance measure model under failure correlation. The four factors of influencing reliability allocation are subsystem complexity, integrated importance measure of subsystem based on failure correlation, failure frequency, and specific gravity ratio of failure downtime. The correlation analysis among the influencing factors was carried out by using gray correlation theory, and the subjective weight of the subsystem was determined. The IEW‐VIKOR (Information Entropy Weight‐Vlsekriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje) method is used to determine the objective weights of subsystems. The comprehensive weight of the subsystem is also obtained through combinatorial empowerment. The reliability allocation of the CNC machine tool subsystem was carried out according to the failure correlation reliability model, and the results of failure independence and failure correlation hypothesis allocation were compared and analyzed. When the reliability index is the same, the reliability allocation method proposed in this paper can assign lower reliability to each subsystem, which is of great significance to improve the reliability of CNC machine tools and reduce the difficulty of reliability design
Model‐driven engineering of safety and security software systems: A systematic mapping study and future research directions
Authors: Mashkoor Atif , Egyed Alexander , Wille Robert , Stock Sebastian
Published: May 2022

This article presents a systematic mapping study on the model‐driven engineering of safety and security concerns in software systems. Combined modeling and development of both safety and security concerns is an emerging field of research as both concerns affect one another in unique ways. Our mapping study provides an overview of the current state of the art in this field. This study carefully selected 143 publications out of 27,259 relevant papers through a rigorous and systematic process. This study then proposes and answers questions such as frequently used methods and tools and development stages where these concerns are typically investigated in application domains. Additionally, we identify the community's preference for publication venues and trends. The discussion on obtained results also features the gained insights and future research directions.
Optical spectroscopy and imaging in surgical management of cancer patients
Authors: Wilson Brian C. , Eu Donovan
Published: May 2022

Surgery is a pillar of cancer management, the general goal being complete removal of solid tumor tissue with minimal damage to normal tissue structure and function. Optical imaging and spectroscopy may contribute to this at several points in the procedural chain, including preoperative tumor localization and staging by biopsy, intra/perioperative identification and localization of tumor margins, detection of residual tumor tissue and tumor‐involved lymph nodes as well as critical normal tissue structures, and assessment of the viability of reconstructed tissues following tumor resection. The numerous optical modalities that can be implemented clinically are discussed, a few of which are already in clinical practice and many more are in clinical trials. These modalities utilize different light‐tissue interactions and technical approaches. The resulting biological information obtained, the current or potential clinical impact, limitations and potential future developments and roles are considered. This article is intended to inform the biophotonics community of the clinical needs and scientific/technical challenges and opportunities in photonics‐enabled surgical guidance and to guide potential surgical users on the potential advantages and limitations in this rapidly evolving landscape.
Total intravenous anaesthesia with alfaxalone in two grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) undergoing enucleation
Authors: Gómez Fernández Laura , Potter Joanna , Huuskonen Vilhelmiina
Published: May 2022

Two young grey seals, from a seal rescue organisation, were presented to the University College Dublin Veterinary Hospital for unilateral eye enucleation. After premedication (pethidine–midazolam–atropine combination given intramuscularly), induction was performed with alfaxalone, and anaesthesia was maintained with alfaxalone total intravenous anaesthesia. During recovery, one of the seals developed severe bradycardia, apnoea and cardiac arrest resulting in death. The other recovered uneventfully after a short period of respiratory distress. Both seals had a suspected infectious pneumonia based on preoperative thoracic radiographs. This case report details the anaesthetic protocols used, the challenges presented to the anaesthetist by this species, and suggests that some complications could be potentially mitigated by more judicious use of anticholinergic agents.
Military History: An Introduction
Authors: Poulsen Niels Bo
Published: May 2022

This chapter offers an introduction to military history. It outlines the relation between history in general and the subdiscipline of military history. Traditionally military history has been “war-centric” and during the late nineteenth and early twentieth century a significant split occurred between military professionals who studied the past in order to find military lessons and establish principles of war and civilian academics who increasingly came to see military history as methodologically primitive and war-glorifying. Contemporary military history, however, has to some extent bridged this gap, and today military history is “a broad church” characterized by a rich variety of approaches. Nevertheless, a number of profound challenges face historians wanting to do military history, including commercialization of the field, a strong tendency to Euro-Atlantic centrism, lack of representation, and a paucity of theoretical and methodological debates. Currently the most notable principal approaches to military history are operational military history, war and society (new military history), deconstructivist military history, and memory culture oriented military history.
Comparing the suitability of domestic spruce, beech, and poplar wood for high-strength densified wood
Authors: Jakob Matthias , Czabany Ivana , Veigel Stefan , Müller Ulrich , Gindl-Altmutter Wolfgang
Published: May 2022

Regarding mechanics, wood is one of the most efficient materials available. Due to its unique combination of composite and cellular microstructure, it exhibits superb specific mechanical properties which exceed many man-made materials. However, concerning absolute mechanical properties, wood is often inferior to metals and novel engineered composites. Since many wood properties are strongly correlated with its density, densification is a promising pathway towards improved absolute mechanics. Spruce, beech and poplar wood were densified in a two-step process. First, amorphous wood polymers were partially extracted according to an alkaline (AL) and an organosolv (OS) protocol. Subsequently, partially delignified veneers were densified by hot pressing in tangential direction. After densification, average densities increased to 1.00–1.20 g cm−3. FTIR analysis confirmed chemical changes, mostly in the bands attributed to hemicelluloses and lignin, of chemically treated and hot-pressed veneers. To evaluate the modification process regarding mechanics, tensile and bending properties were characterized and revealed promising results. Compared to untreated control specimens, stiffness and strength tested in tension and bending improved, regardless of wood species and pretreatment. Regarding average tensile properties, the OS treatment improved stiffness, up to 40 GPa, whereas the AL treatment improved strength, up to 300 MPa. Set-recovery tests showed, that chemically treated and densified samples exhibited a better dimensional stability compared to H2O-soaked and compressed specimens. However, 24 h water soaking resulted in excessive thickness swelling. This might be a major drawback of partially delignified and densified wood and should be considered in a material selection process.
Efficacy and toxicity of vemurafenib and cobimetinib in relation to plasma concentrations, after administration via feeding tube in patients with BRAF-mutated thyroid cancer: a case series and review of literature
Authors: van Berge Henegouwen J. M. , van der Wijngaart H. , Zeverijn L. J. , Hoes L. R. , Meertens M. , Huitema A. D. R. , Devriese L. A. , Labots M. , Verheul H. M. W. , Voest E. E. , Gelderblom H.
Published: May 2022

Introduction

The combination of vemurafenib, a proto-oncogene B-Raf inhibitor (BRAFi) and cobimetinib, an inhibitor of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEKi) has shown to improve survival in patients with BRAF V600-mutated melanoma. BRAF mutations are also frequently detected driver mutations in other tumor types, including thyroid carcinoma. Since thyroid carcinoma is not a labeled indication for BRAF/MEKi, a cohort for patients with BRAF V600-mutated thyroid carcinoma was opened within the Drug Rediscovery Protocol (DRUP), a national ongoing pan-cancer multi-drug trial, in which patients receive off-label treatment with approved drugs based on their molecular tumor profile.

Results

Here, we present two patients with BRAF-mutated thyroid carcinoma, who were successfully treated with vemurafenib/cobimetinib administered via a feeding tube. Plasma concentrations of vemurafenib and cobimetinib were determined. A partial response was observed in both patients, but they experienced significant toxicity.

Conclusion

Our cases show that vemurafenib/cobimetinib treatment is effective in BRAF V600-mutated thyroid carcinoma, also when administered via a feeding tube. Although serious side effects occurred in both patients, we hypothesize that this was not attributable to the administration route. Therefore, administration of vemurafenib/cobimetinib by feeding tube is feasible and effective.

Trial registration

Clinical trial identification: NCT02925234.
Macronutrient quality index and cardiovascular disease risk in the Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra (SUN) cohort
Authors: Vanegas Paola , Zazpe Itziar , Santiago Susana , Fernandez-Lazaro Cesar I. , de la O Víctor , Martínez-González Miguel Ángel
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To assess the association between a multi-dimensional Macronutrient Quality Index (MQI) and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in a Mediterranean cohort.

Methods

Prospective analyses among 18,418 participants (mean age 36 years, 60.8% women) of the Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra (SUN) cohort. Dietary intake information was obtained through a validated semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The MQI (expressing high-quality macronutrient intake) was calculated based on three previously reported quality indices: the Carbohydrate Quality Index (CQI), the Fat Quality Index (FQI), and the Healthy Plate Protein source Quality Index (HPPQI). Adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) and Provegetarian Diet was evaluated using the Trichopoulou index and the score proposed by Martínez-González, respectively. CVD was defined as new-onset stroke, myocardial infarction, or CVD death.

Results

After a median follow-up time of 14 years (211,744 person-years), 171 cases of CVD were identified. A significant inverse association was found between the MQI and CVD risk with multivariable-adjusted HR for the highest vs. the lowest quartile of 0.60 (95% IC, 0.38–0.96; Ptrend = 0.024).

Conclusion

In this Mediterranean cohort, we found a significant inverse relationship between a multidimensional MQI (expressing high-quality macronutrient intake) and a lower risk of CVD.
The importance of the cerebroplacental ratio for the prognosis of neonatal outcome in AGA fetuses
Authors: Mecke L. , Ignatov A. , Redlich A.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

As a Doppler sonographic parameter, the cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) provides information about fetal hemodynamics and the redistribution of fetal blood volume in response to a metabolic change. The present study was undertaken to determine the extent to which CPR can be used as a valid parameter in routine obstetric assessment. We investigated whether CPR can be used to assess the neonatal outcome in appropriate for gestational age (AGA) fetuses and its association with secondary cesarean section due to fetal distress.

Methods

In this retrospective analysis 1739 pregnant women were admitted to the University Women‘s Clinic Magdeburg, Germany, between January 2016 and December 2017. Of them, 710 AGA fetuses were eligible for analysis. SGA fetuses with an estimated fetal weight < 10th percentile were excluded from the study. The AGA fetuses were divided in two groups based on the CPR: 669 fetuses showed a normal CPR ≥ 1.08; 41 fetuses showed a decreased CPR < 1.08.

Results

In our study cohort decreased CPR in AGA fetuses was associated with threefold increased rate of cesarean sections due to fetal distress (p < 0.001). Our data suggested that low CPR is a reliable predictor of an impaired neonatal outcome in AGA fetuses in terms of a lower birth weight, transfer to neonatology, longer length of hospitalization, and the presence of severe morbidity.

Conclusion

Decreased CPR in AGA fetuses correlated with impaired neonatal outcome and secondary cesarean section due to fetal distress. The potential role of CPR for obstetric screening should be investigated in further studies.
Observations from the March 2021 Thessaly Earthquakes: an earthquake engineering perspective for masonry structures
Authors: Sarhosis V. , Giarlelis C. , Karakostas C. , Smyrou E. , Bal I. E. , Valkaniotis S. , Ganas A.
Published: May 2022

Two strong earthquakes hit Thessaly region on March 3rd, 2021 (Mw = 6.3) and on March 4th, 2021 (Mw = 6.1). The epicentres of the earthquakes were located at approximately 23 and 29 km respectively NW of Larissa, one of the most populous cities in Greece. Several aftershocks followed thereafter. Although no injuries were recorded, several structures suffered significant damage close to the epicentre, while some others collapsed. Approximately 300 residents of the village of Damasi were transferred to temporary settlements and tents. The event occurred during the COVID19 lockdown and created significant stress and disruption to residents. This paper focuses on the earthquake swarm itself as well as the damages observed in residential buildings, schools, and churches in the earthquake-stricken region. The earthquakes mainly impacted low-rise domestic masonry buildings, while the more modern reinforced concrete structures built following the recent seismic regulations were almost unaffected. The typology of buildings in the region, together with photographs demonstrating the extent of damage are presented herein. Despite the rather satisfactory performance of modern buildings in recent earthquakes in Greece, the preliminary investigations from the Thessaly Earthquakes showed that there is still a significant level of vulnerability in existing masonry building stock constructed using traditional methods and materials. This issue could re-emerge in future earthquakes striking other rural areas of Greece, something that needs to be addressed systematically in the future.
Comparative Study of the CO2 Methanation Activity of Hydrotalcite-Based Nickel Catalysts Generated by Using Different Reduction Protocols
Authors: Müller Alexandra , Völs Pit , Störr Bianca , Mertens Florian
Published: May 2022

Parameters controlling the reduction of nickel hydrotalcite-based catalysts have been investigated in order to optimize the activity of the catalyst for CO2 methanation. Beside the variation of temperature and duration in the reduction process of the catalysts with hydrogen, two different reduction modes have been explored. The first one is the direct reduction of the dried uncalcined hydrotalcite-based precursor material whereas the second one is given by the reduction of the same type of precursor material but having been subjected to a calcination step prior to reduction. The corresponding kinetic measurements for the two principally different catalyst preparation schemes reveal that omitting the calcination step can largely be beneficial. Standard characterization data (XRD, BET, TG-FTIR, XPS) for the different catalytic materials will be presented.

Graphical abstract
Transdiagnostic Clinical Staging for Childhood Mental Health: An Adjunctive Tool for Classifying Internalizing and Externalizing Syndromes that Emerge in Children Aged 5–11 Years
Authors: Sawrikar Vilas , Macbeth Angus , Gillespie-Smith Karri , Brown Megan , Lopez-Williams Andy , Boulton Kelsie , Guestella Adam , Hickie Ian
Published: May 2022

Clinical staging is now recognized as a key tool for facilitating innovation in personalized and preventative mental health care. It places a strong emphasis on the salience of indicated prevention, early intervention, and secondary prevention of major mental disorders. By contrast to established models for major mood and psychotic syndromes that emerge after puberty, developments in clinical staging for childhood-onset disorders lags significantly behind. In this article, criteria for a transdiagnostic staging model for those internalizing and externalizing disorders that emerge in childhood is presented. This sits alongside three putative pathophysiological profiles (developmental, circadian, and anxious-arousal) that may underpin these common illness trajectories. Given available evidence, we argue that it is now timely to develop a transdiagnostic staging model for childhood-onset syndromes. It is further argued that a transdiagnostic staging model has the potential to capture more precisely the dimensional, fluctuating developmental patterns of illness progression of childhood psychopathology. Given potential improvements in modelling etiological processes, and delivering more personalized interventions, transdiagnostic clinical staging for childhood holds much promise for assisting to improve outcomes. We finish by presenting an agenda for research in developments of transdiagnostic clinical staging for childhood mental health.
Microvascular changes in the recurrent cystoid macular edema secondary to posterior noninfectious uveitis on optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Albano Valeria , Guerriero Silvana , Furino Claudio , Sborgia Giancarlo , Sborgia Alessandra , Dammacco Rosanna , Boscia Francesco , Alessio Giovanni
Published: May 2022

Background

Posterior uveitis represents the second most frequent type of uveitis (15–30% of all uveitis). Noninfectious posterior uveitis complicated with secondary cystoid macular edema (CME) affects the visual prognosis negatively. The objective of the current study is to detect possible microvascular changes causing relapsing uveitis-related CME using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Methods

This is an interventional, observational, retrospective study with 1 year follow-up. Patients with noninfectious, posterior uveitis-related CME undergoing dexamethasone (DEX) implant were evaluated. Following the DEX-implant were carried out control visits after 1 month, 2-months, 4-months, 6-months, and for up 1-year. A total of 76 eyes of 38 consecutive patients with noninfectious posterior uveitis were enrolled (consecutive sample). Complicated noninfectious posterior uveitis with secondary CME was diagnosed in 56 eyes of uveitis patients (73.7%) and reviewed.

Results

Our investigation showed (1) a reduction in superficial vessel plexus (SVP) measurements within 2-month (84%), reaching 96.4% for up 1-year, (2) an irregular profile of SVP in 69.6% of cases, persisting for up 1-year; relapsing uveitis-related CME eyes with irregular superficial foveal avascular zone (FAZ) profile were in 51%, while the SVP measurements reestablished in 100% of cases. Conversely, (3) the deep vascular plexus (DVP) parameters restored in a lower number of eyes within the 2-month (39.3%), remaining abnormal in 46.4% of cases for up 1-year; despite DVP restored in 53.6% of cases for up 1 year, (4) a capillary rarefaction ring around the FAZ appeared in 80.4% of cases; the relapsing uveitis-related CME eyes with abnormal DVP parameters were present in 41% of cases, of which 92.1% showed a rarefaction ring had abnormal DVP.

Conclusions

The use of OCTA enabled the evaluation in detail of retinal microvascular changes. We suggested that the possibility of the recurrence of the uveitis-related CME depends on the persistence of modifications of the superficial and deep layers. In this regard, we propose to implement the current imaging armamentarium with OCTA for the follow-up of patients with noninfectious uveitis-related CME.