bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of dietary probiotics supplementation on meat quality, volatile flavor compounds, muscle fiber characteristics, and antioxidant capacity in lambs
Authors: Liu Chang , Hou Yanru , Su Rina , Luo Yulong , Dou Lu , Yang Zhihao , Yao Duo , Wang Bohui , Zhao Lihua , Su Lin , Jin Ye
Published: April 2022

This study investigated the effects of probiotics on growth performance, meat quality, muscle fiber characteristics, volatile compounds, and antioxidant capacity in lambs. A total of 24 Sunit lambs were randomly allocated into two groups, each consisting of three replicates of four lambs. Throughout the experiment period, the lambs were fed with based diet (CON) and 10 g probiotics/d supplemented diet (PRO). Compared with the CON group, the number of lactic acid bacteria in fecal samples of PRO group was significantly increased (p < .05) and the coliforms were significantly decreased (p < .05). Dietary probiotics supplementation decreased pH24h, L*, and shear force (p < .05). The muscle fibers were switched from type IIB to type I, with a decrease in the mean cross‐sectional area (CSA) (p < .05) of longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle. Also, probiotics altered the composition of meat volatile flavor compounds, such as nonanal, undecanal, 1‐pentanol, 1‐hexanol, and 2,3‐octanedione. In addition, probiotics increased the total antioxidative capacity (T‐AOC) and catalase (CAT) activity of LT muscle, while it decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (p < .05). Overall, these results indicated that probiotics could be used as an effective feed additive by improving meat tenderness and flavor.
Effects of different antioxidants and their combinations on the oxidative stability of DHA algae oil and walnut oil
Authors: Pei Xue‐Chen , Yin Fa‐Wen , Zhong Xu , Liu Hui‐Lin , Song Liang , Zhao Guan‐Hua , Wang Yong‐Fu , Zhou Da‐Yong
Published: April 2022

Through monitoring Rancimat induction time (RIT), peroxide value (POV), and thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS) of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) algae oil and walnut oil during accelerated storage, the effects of the single and the combinations of seven kinds of antioxidants involving ascorbyl palmitate (AP), phytic acid (PA), vitamin E (VE), antioxidant of bamboo leaves (AOB), rosemary extract, tea polyphenols (TP), and tea polyphenol palmitate (TPP) against lipid oxidation were evaluated. RIT, POV, and TBARS results showed that the DHA algae oil sample containing 600 mg/kg TPP revealed the strongest stability and the walnut oil sample containing 450 mg/kg TPP and 100 mg/kg TP revealed the strongest stability. Then, the shelf lives of two oils were predicted from the extrapolation of the linear regression model between Log RIT and temperature. Our results indicated that the optimal antioxidant could prolong the shelf lives of DHA algae oil and walnut oil by 2.31‐ and 7.74‐fold, respectively.
Norwegian tunnel excavation: Increasing digitalisation in all operations
Authors: Ka Yi Chiu Jessica , Hansen Tom F. , Wetlesen Thorvald
Published: April 2022

In the past decades, Norwegian tunnelling has undertaken a major digital development in all operations from planning to the excavation phase. The breakthrough is driven by digital contract requirements from forward‐leaning clients and innovative industrial stakeholders, aiming for ever more efficient, quality‐oriented and risk‐reducing operations. A formal milestone documenting this development was the publication of Digitalisation in Norwegian Tunnelling in 2019. From 2019, most contracts of new infrastructure tunnels must deliver a level 3 Building Information Modeling (BIM) model. Control systems for drilling jumbos are fully digitalised. All drilling must be monitored and documented with Measurement While Drilling techniques. Via cloud servers, the drilling information is interpreted and delivered live to face engineers for decision support. Sensors are used to monitor rock grouting flow and pressure in each drill hole. Digital electronic detonators with exact delay time are used for blasting. Geotechnical mapping is carried out on field tablets. High‐resolution scans with RGB imaging must be carried out on the exposed rock surface and after rock support/linings. The next step is to utilise all the collected data to a higher degree by advanced analysis with machine learning (ML) and similar techniques for automation and optimisation. This study reviews and exemplifies the digital focus and achievements in core operations in Norwegian tunnel excavation.
Use of BIM technology for optimization and virtual build of TBM tunnels
Authors: Jeon KiSeok , Dalton Edward , Bakhshi Mehdi , Nasri Verya
Published: April 2022

The practical application of accurate design and coordination in Building Information Modeling (BIM) environment for precast rings in Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM)‐bored tunnels is becoming more achievable. These rings, made up of individual segments, are subject to many constraints which include: 1) deviations from theoretical alignment, as modeling the straight centerline of a ring into a curved alignment naturally produces minor deviations in line and grade, 2) avoiding crucifix joints when the joints between segments align in the longitudinal direction, reducing sealing performance, 3) and TBM shield design by minimizing the diameter of the TBM to reduce overcut and required backfill. This article describes the automated procedures for developing our design intent in the BIM environment with consideration for ring length optimization in tunnel curves, geometrical analyses of the staggered pattern of joints, and the minimum diameter and overcut envelope of the TBM shield. This procedure is demonstrated in multiple light‐rail transit lines in Montréal including the Réseau Express Métropolitain (REM) airport link tunnel and the expansion of the Montreal Blue Line Metro. Virtual build of these segmentally lined tunnels negotiating all straight and curved drives of the alignment with BIM modeling is realized and summarized in this article.
Determinants of long‐term care service use by persons with dementia: A national dementia registry study conducted in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Chia‐Fen , Huang Mao‐Hsuan , Cheng Chih‐Ming , Lee Jun‐Jun , Wang Wen‐Fu , Huang Ling‐Chun , Huang Li‐Kai , Lee Wei‐Ju , Sung Pi‐Shan , Liu Yi‐Chien , Ouyang Wen‐Chen , Hsu Chih‐Cheng , Fuh Jong‐Ling
Published: April 2022

Background

This study investigated the determinants and use of Taiwan's long‐term care (LTC) Plan Version 2.0 (LTC 2.0) services by persons with dementia (PWDs) and their caregivers.

Methods

In total, 1268 PWD–caregiver dyads were enrolled for analysis from a national dementia registry. Andersen's Behavioral Model of Health Services Use was used to investigate the association of LTC service use with several factors, namely the demographic data of PWDs and their caregivers, migrant caregiver employment, monthly household income, caregiver burden as determined by the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI), Mini‐Mental State Examination score, Clinical Dementia Rating scores, neuropsychiatric inventory scores for the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, and PWDs' activities of daily living (ADLs).

Results

Among the studied family caregivers, 81.4% did not use LTC resources. A multivariable logistic analysis revealed that aberrant motor behaviors (odd ratio [OR] = 1.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.10–1.56, p = 0.003), dysfunction in ADLs (OR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.02–1.10, p = 0.002), higher ZBI scores (OR = 1.02, 95% CI = 1.01–1.03, p = 0.004), not residing with family members (OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.32–2.66, p < 0.001), and not employing a migrant caregiver (OR = 4.41, 95% CI = 2.59–7.51, p < 0.001) were the factors most significantly associated with LTC service use.

Conclusion

Factors such as whether PWDs live alone, specific neuropsychiatric symptoms, and impaired function should be considered in future policy amendments to provide required activities and care resources for PWDs and their caregivers.
Stochastic estimation of the distribution of soil water repellency on the soil surface in a humid‐temperate forest
Authors: Kajiura Masako
Published: April 2022

Soil water repellency (SWR) increases surface runoff and preferential flows. Thus, quantitative evaluation of SWR distribution is necessary to understand water movements. Because the variability of SWR distribution makes it difficult to measure directly, we developed a method for estimating an SWR distribution index, defined as the areal fraction of surface soil showing SWR (SWRarea). The theoretical basis of the method is as follows: (1) SWRarea is equivalent to the probability that a position on the soil surface is drier than the critical water content (CWC); SWR is present (droplets absorbed in >10 s) when the soil surface is drier than the CWC and absent when it is wetter. (2) CWC and soil moisture content (θ) are normally distributed independent variables. (3) Thus, based on probability theory, the cumulative normal distribution of θ – CWC (f(x)) can be obtained from the distributions of CWC and θ, and f(0), the cumulative probability that θ – CWC < 0, gives the SWRarea. To investigate whether the method gives reasonable results, we repeatedly measured θ at 0–5 cm depth and determined the water repellency of the soil surface at multiple points in fixed plots with different soils and topography in a humid‐temperate forest. We then calculated the CWC from the observed θ–SWR relationship at each point. We tested the normality of the CWC and θ distributions and the correlation between CWC and θ. Then, we determined f(x) from the CWC and θ distributions and estimated the SWRarea on each measurement day. Although CWC and θ were both normally distributed, in many cases they were correlated. Nevertheless, the CWC–θ dependency had little effect on the estimation error, and f(x) explained 69% of the SWRarea variability. Our findings show that a stochastic approach is useful for estimating SWRarea.
Survival outcomes for dose‐dense paclitaxel plus carboplatin neoadjuvant vs standard adjuvant chemotherapy in stage II to III triple‐negative breast cancer: A prospective cohort study with propensity‐matched analysis
Authors: Xiu Meng , Zhang Pin , Wang Xiang , Fan Ying , Li Qiao , Li Qing , Wang Jiayu , Dong Lin , Luo Yang , Yuan Peng , Ma Fei , Xu Binghe
Published: April 2022

There is a scarcity of data exploring the long‐term benefits of platinum‐based (anthracycline‐free) neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) for triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC). The prospective cohort study was conducted at Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Patients with TNBC in stage II‐III were enrolled to receive NACT of dose‐dense (dd) paclitaxel (175 mg/m2) plus carboplatin (AUC 4.0) biweekly (ddPCb) for 6 cycles, and matched patients during the same period who received standard adjuvant chemotherapy for survival comparison. From January 2014 to July 2021, 264 patients were included in the primary nonmatched analysis (neoadjuvant 99, adjuvant 165). Compared to those in the adjuvant group, patients receiving NACT had larger tumors, higher degrees of nodal burden and more advanced disease (P < .001). Almost all patients in the adjuvant group received epirubicin plus cyclophosphamide followed by paclitaxel. Within a median follow‐up of 44.9 months, the 4‐year recurrence‐free survival (RFS, 82.6% vs 75.4%) and overall survival (OS, 86.6% vs 80.5%) were higher for patients in the neoadjuvant group without statistical difference. In the matched cohort of 134 patients (67 pairs), the 4‐year RFS (84.9% vs 60.9%; hazard ratio [HR], 0.32; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.15‐0.69; P = .003) and OS (88.0% vs 65.9%, HR, 0.30, 95% CI, 0.12‐0.75, P = .010) were significantly superior for platinum‐based neoadjuvant than standard adjuvant chemotherapy. Compared to standard chemotherapy, ddPCb was related to less neutropenia and more thrombocytopenia. These results support the consideration of ddPCb as NACT for TNBC in stage II‐III. Randomized data and predictive biomarkers for platinum‐based chemotherapy are needed to be further investigated.
High‐fat diet promotes prostate cancer growth through histamine signaling
Authors: Matsushita Makoto , Fujita Kazutoshi , Hatano Koji , Hayashi Takuji , Kayama Hisako , Motooka Daisuke , Hase Hiroaki , Yamamoto Akinaru , Uemura Toshihiko , Yamamichi Gaku , Tomiyama Eisuke , Koh Yoko , Kato Taigo , Kawashima Atsunari , Uemura Motohide , Nojima Satoshi , Imamura Ryoichi , Mubeen Aysha , Netto George J. , Tsujikawa Kazutake , Nakamura Shota , Takeda Kiyoshi , Morii Eiichi , Nonomura Norio
Published: April 2022

Western high‐fat diets (HFD) are regarded as a major risk factor for prostate cancer (PCa). Using prostate‐specific Pten‐knockout mice as a PCa model, we previously reported that HFD promoted inflammatory PCa growth. The composition of the gut microbiota changes under the influence of diet exert various effects on the host through immunological mechanisms. Herein, we investigated the etiology of HFD‐induced inflammatory cancer growth and the involvement of the gut microbiome. The expression of Hdc, the gene responsible for histamine biosynthesis, and histamine levels were upregulated in large prostate tumors of HFD‐fed mice, and the number of mast cells increased around the tumor foci. Administration of fexofenadine, a histamine H1 receptor antagonist, suppressed tumor growth in HFD‐fed mice by reducing the number of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells and suppressing IL6/STAT3 signaling. HFD intake induced gut dysbiosis, resulting in the elevation of serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels. Intraperitoneal injection of LPS increased Hdc expression in PCa. Inhibition of LPS/Toll‐like receptor 4 signaling suppressed HFD‐induced tumor growth. The number of mast cells increased around the cancer foci in total prostatectomy specimens of severely obese patients. In conclusion, HFD promotes PCa growth through histamine signaling via mast cells. Dietary high‐fat induced gut dysbiosis might be involved in the inflammatory cancer growth.
Integrated bioinformatics analysis of potential biomarkers for pancreatic cancer
Authors: Shi Huaqing , Xu Hao , Chai Changpeng , Qin Zishun , Zhou Wence
Published: April 2022

Background

Pancreatic cancer, particularly pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA), is an aggressive malignancy associated with a low 5‐year survival rate. Poor outcomes associated with PDA are attributable to late detection and inoperability. Most patients with PDA are diagnosed with locally advanced and metastatic disease. Such cases are primarily treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Because of the lack of effective molecular targets, early diagnosis and successful therapies are limited. The purpose of this study was to screen key candidate genes for PDA using a bioinformatic approach and to research their potential functional, pathway mechanisms associated with PDA progression. It may help to understand the role of associated genes in the development and progression of PDA and identify relevant molecular markers with value for early diagnosis and targeted therapy.

Materials and methods

To identify novel genes associated with carcinogenesis and progression of PDA, we analyzed the microarray datasets GSE62165, GSE125158, and GSE71989 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, and the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) was used for Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses. A protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using STRING, and module analysis was performed using Cytoscape. Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) was used to evaluate the differential expression of hub genes in patients with PDA. In addition, we verified the expression of these genes in PDA cell lines and normal pancreatic epithelial cells.

Results

A total of 202 DEGs were identified and these were found to be enriched for various functions and pathways, including cell adhesion, leukocyte migration, extracellular matrix organization, extracellular region, collagen trimer, membrane raft, fibronectin‐binding, integrin binding, protein digestion, and absorption, and focal adhesion. Among these DEGs, 12 hub genes with high degrees of connectivity were selected. Survival analysis showed that the hub genes (HMMR, CEP55, CDK1, UHRF1, ASPM, RAD51AP1, DLGAP5, KIF11, SHCBP1, PBK, and HMGB2) may be involved in the tumorigenesis and development of PDA, highlighting their potential as diagnostic and therapeutic factors in PDA.

Conclusions

In summary, the DEGs and hub genes identified in the present study not only contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the carcinogenesis and progression of PDA but may also serve as potential new biomarkers and targets for PDA.
Research on the governance of campus bullying and prevention mechanism of students' mental health problem
Authors: Chen Yongjie
Published: April 2022

At present, juvenile campus bullying is seriously threatening their own physical and mental health, campus security and even social security, making social instability factors increase. It is to explore how to reduce and avoid the frequent occurrence of campus bullying and provide effective countermeasures for the governance of campus bullying. The relevant research on the governance of campus bullying and the prevention mechanism of students' mental health problems is conducted from the judicial perspective. The methods of literature survey and questionnaire are employed to investigate and analyze the campus bullying problem governance and the influencing factors of students' mental health. The results show that the causes of campus bullying are not only due to external factors, but also due to internal factors from students themselves. The principle of timely prevention and comprehensive management must be followed in the construction of the multigovernance system of campus bullying. It suggests that there are many factors for the occurrence of campus bullying. Only by finding out the root cause of the problem and taking measures to deal with it can the occurrence of campus bullying be effectively avoided.
Using intergenerational photovoice to understand family strengths among Native American children and their caregivers
Authors: Edwards Katie M. , Herrington Ramona , Edwards Marcey , Banyard Victoria , Mullet Natira , Hopfauf Skyler , Simon Briana , Waterman Emily A.
Published: April 2022

The purpose of the current study was to examine Native American children and caregivers' perspectives of family and cultural strengths using photovoice and to identify lessons learned from the first‐ever implementation of intergenerational photovoice with Native Americans. Participants were Native American, low‐income caregivers (n = 6) and their children (n = 12) between the ages of 10 and 15 who participated in six photovoice sessions. The themes that emerged from photos and group discussion included myriad challenges faced by Native American families including exposure to community violence, substance abuse, and criminal offending and incarceration. Themes also emerged that highlighted the strengths of Native families that were used to overcome identified challenges, including religion/spirituality, engagement in traditional cultural practices (e.g., prayer, song, dance), healthy activities (e.g., running, meditation). These data provided foundational information that is currently being used, along with other data, to develop a culturally grounded, strengths‐focused, family‐based program (Tiwahe Wicagwicayapi [Strengthening/Growing Families in Lakota]) to prevent adverse childhood experiences. We also discuss the challenges of intergenerational photovoice and lessons learned to inform future intergenerational photovoice projects.
Dental students’ perceptions of the wildcard as a novel teaching technique in case‐based learning
Authors: Perez Arnaldo , Arntson Cheryl , Howey Madison , Amin Maryam , Kebbe Maryam , Ganatra Seema
Published: April 2022

Objective

Cases used in case‐based learning should be realistic, relatively difficult, engaging, and educational to maximize clinical knowledge and skills. Data are needed to support the effectiveness of existing and new techniques to ensure these case attributes. The purpose of this study was to explore dental students’ perceptions of the wildcard technique in case‐based learning. This novel technique aims to ensure key case attributes by adding new information to the analysis of a case that challenges the initial diagnosis and/or treatment plan.

Methods

Constructivism (paradigm) and interpretative description (approach) informed the study design. Participants were 21 third‐ and fourth‐year dental students who took part in an oral pathology seminar in which the wildcard was employed. Data were collected through individual, semi‐structured interviews that were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Inductive, manifest thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Several verification strategies were implemented to ensure rigor throughout data analysis.

Results

Identified themes suggest that students perceived the wildcard as a new scenario that simulated clinical practice regarding settings, situations, conditions, and required skills. They also enjoyed the wildcard and found it effective in terms of knowledge acquisition, skills development, and engagement. Students valued and recommended wildcards that were challenging, authentic, and educational.

Conclusions

Students positively valued the wildcard, which seems to ensure several case attributes. Learning and behavioral outcome evaluations are needed to further establish the effectiveness of the wildcard in case‐based learning.
Epidemiology and clinical manifestations of different enterovirus and rhinovirus types show that EV‐D68 may still have an impact on severity of respiratory infections
Authors: Larsson Simon B. , Vracar Diana , Karlsson Marie , Ringlander Johan , Norder Heléne
Published: April 2022

Respiratory infections are often caused by enteroviruses (EVs). The aim of this study was to identify whether certain types of EV were more likely to cause severe illness in 2016, when an increasing spread of upper respiratory infections was observed in Gothenburg, Sweden. The EV strain in 137 of 1341 nasopharyngeal samples reactive for EV by polymerase chain reaction could be typed by sequencing the viral 5′‐untranslated region and VP1 regions. Phylogenetic trees were constructed. Patient records were reviewed. Hospital care was needed for 46 of 74 patients with available medical records. The majority of the patients (83) were infected with the rhinovirus (RV). The remaining 54 were infected with EV A, B, C, and D strains of 13 different types, with EV‐D68 and CV‐A10 being the most common (17 vs. 14). Significantly more patients with EV‐D68 presented with dyspnea, both when compared with other EV types (p = 0.003) and compared to all other EV and RV infections (p = 0.04). Phylogenetic analysis of the sequences revealed the spread of both Asian and European CV‐A10 strains and 12 different RV C types. This study showed an abundance of different EV types spreading during a year with increased upper respiratory increased infections. EV‐D68 infections were associated with more severe disease manifestation. Other EV and RV types were more evenly distributed between hospitalized and nonhospitalized patients. The EV type CV‐A10 was also found in infected patients, which warrants further studies and surveillance, as this pathogen could cause more severe disease and outbreaks of hand, foot, and mouth disease.
Comprehensive chemical profile and quantitative analysis of the Shabyar tablet, a traditional ethnic medicine prescription, by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole‐orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Yan Yahui , Abdulla Rahima , Liu Xiaoyan , Li Shuping , Aisa Haji Akber
Published: April 2022

The Shabyar tablet is commonly used as a traditional ethnic medicine prescription for the treatment of night blindness, poor vision, and headaches. However, the chemical components of the Shabyar tablet have not been holistically explored, which seriously hinders the discovery of the activity. This study qualitatively and quantitatively investigated the overall chemical profile of the Shabyar tablet using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography hyphenated with quadrupole‐orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Altogether, 170 chemical components, including 59 flavonoids, 78 organic acids, 12 anthranones, three anthraquinones, one naphthalene, and 17 other compounds were tentatively identified and attributed, with 40 among these being unambiguously characterized in comparison with their corresponding authentic standards. To further determine the major representative constituents of the Shabyar tablet, a quantitative method was used for the simultaneous analysis of 33 characteristic components in Shabyar samples. The results were validated in terms of linearity, precision, repeatability, stability, and recovery. This newly developed approach could be successfully employed for evaluating the holistic quality of crude extracts and Chinese medicines in the Shabyar compound tablet and provide a solid chemical foundation for additional investigations on in vivo pharmacodynamics and therapeutic mechanisms to identify the potential effective components of traditional medicines.
Posttraumatic stress disorder–related anhedonia as a predictor of psychosocial functional impairment among United States veterans
Authors: May Casey L. , Wisco Blair E. , Fox Victor A. , Marx Brian P. , Keane Terence M.
Published: April 2022

Prior research suggests that anhedonia symptoms related to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD; i.e., diminished interest, detachment from others, and difficulty experiencing positive emotions) are consistently associated with a higher degree of impairment in psychosocial functioning beyond that associated with other PTSD symptoms. Unfortunately, much of this research has used cross‐sectional study designs; relied upon outdated DSM diagnostic criteria; and failed to control for potentially confounding variables, such as the presence of co‐occurring depression. This study used data from Waves 2 and 4 (n = 1,649) of the Veterans’ After‐Discharge Longitudinal Registry (Project VALOR), a longitudinal dataset of U.S. Army and Marine veterans. As measured using the Inventory of Psychosocial Functioning, Wave 4 psychosocial functioning was regressed on seven PTSD symptom factors at Wave 2 (i.e., intrusions, avoidance, negative affect, anhedonia, externalizing behaviors, anxious arousal, and dysphoric arousal) and potential Wave 2 confounds. The Anhedonia factor, β = .123, most strongly predicted later psychosocial functional impairment beyond the impact of other PTSD symptom factors, βs = −.076–.046. Clinical implications of these findings are also discussed.
Survival and mortality of green‐winged teal banded on the Yukon‐Kuskokwim Delta, Alaska
Authors: Thompson Jordan M. , Riecke Thomas V. , Daniels Bryan L. , Spragens Kyle A. , Gabrielson Melissa L. , Nicolai Christopher A. , Sedinger Benjamin S.
Published: April 2022

Despite the importance of green‐winged teal (Anas crecca) as a harvested species in North America, recent information on variation in vital rates among regions is lacking. We used band recovery data and hierarchical autoregressive models to examine temporal and age‐sex‐class variation in survival, hunting mortality, and nonhunting mortality probabilities of green‐winged teal banded at Kgun Lake on the Yukon‐Kuskokwim Delta, Alaska, USA, from 1997–2019. We used data from 10,554 adult and juvenile green‐winged teal of known sex and age banded and released at Kgun Lake, and 1,245 hunter recoveries. Estimates of annual survival probability for adult females and males ranged from 0.44 (95% CI = 0.29–0.54) to 0.49 (95% CI = 0.37–0.68) and 0.56 (95% CI = 0.50–0.61) to 0.58 (95% CI = 0.50–0.64), respectively, during our study period. Estimates of annual survival probability for juvenile females and males ranged from 0.36 (95% CI = 0.18–0.56) to 0.46 (95% CI = 0.31–0.71) and 0.51 (95% CI = 0.38–0.61) to 0.56 (95% CI = 0.44–0.71), respectively. Hunting mortality probability was greatest for juvenile males and least for adult females. Hunting mortality probability of juvenile males increased from 0.09 (95% CI = 0.05–0.13) in 1997 to 0.14 (95% CI = 0.11–0.18) in 2015. Nonhunting mortality probability was greater and more variable than hunting mortality probability for all age‐sex classes, indicating nonhunting mortality contributed most to total mortality of green‐winged teal banded at Kgun Lake during our study. Additionally, survival probability of female green‐winged teal banded at Kgun Lake is less than published estimates for green‐winged teal banded in the boreal forest of Alaska. We recommend continuing consistent banding operations for green‐winged teal on the Yukon‐Kuskokwim Delta and other important breeding areas to further understand factors influencing nonhunting mortality and how they may vary seasonally and geographically.
Clinicoradiological Features in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Comorbid with Argyrophilic Grains
Authors: Sakurai Keita , Kaneda Daita , Morimoto Satoru , Uchida Yuto , Inui Shohei , Kimura Yasuyuki , Kato Takashi , Ito Kengo , Hashizume Yoshio
Published: April 2022

Background

Contrary to pure cases, the influence of comorbid argyrophilic grain disease (AGD) in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) has not been sufficiently evaluated.

Objectives

We compared the clinicoradiological features of 12 patients with PSP with (PSPw/AG) and 8 patients without AGD (PSPw/oAG).

Methods

Medical records and magnetic resonance imaging were checked retrospectively from a single brain bank database.

Results

Other than AGD, no differences were observed in any other neurodegenerative pathologies between the 2 groups. Ages at onset and deaths of patients with PSPw/AG were higher than those of patients with PSPw/oAG (77.9 ± 4.9 vs. 68.9 ± 5.9, and 87.0 ± 5.7 vs. 78.1 ± 5.0; P = 0.003 and P = 0.002, respectively). In addition to the later onset of motor symptoms, initial amnestic presentations were limited to 5 patients with PSPw/AG. Both characteristic midbrain atrophy and severe ambient gyrus atrophy were detected exclusively in 8 patients with PSPw/AG.

Conclusions

Initial amnestic presentations and ambient gyrus atrophy may be characteristic of PSPw/AG.
Ultra‐high dose rate radiation production and delivery systems intended for FLASH
Authors: Farr Jonathan , Grilj Veljko , Malka Victor , Sudharsan Srinivasan , Schippers Marco
Published: April 2022

Higher dose rates, a trend for radiotherapy machines, can be beneficial in shortening treatment times for radiosurgery and mitigating the effects of motion. Recently, even higher doses (e.g., 100 times greater) have become targeted because of their potential to generate the FLASH effect (FE). We refer to these physical dose rates as ultra‐high (UHDR). The complete relationship between UHDR and the FE is unknown. But UHDR systems are needed to explore the relationship further and to deliver clinical UHDR treatments, where indicated. Despite the challenging set of unknowns, the authors seek to make reasonable assumptions to probe how existing and developing technology can address the UHDR conditions needed to provide beam generation capable of producing the FE in preclinical and clinical applications. As a preface, this paper discusses the known and unknown relationships between UHDR and the FE. Based on these, different accelerator and ionizing radiation types are then discussed regarding the relevant UHDR needs. The details of UHDR beam production are discussed for existing and potential future systems such as linacs, cyclotrons, synchrotrons, synchrocyclotrons, and laser accelerators. In addition, various UHDR delivery mechanisms are discussed, along with required developments in beam diagnostics and dose control systems.
Mitigating transmit‐B1 artifacts by predicting parallel transmission images with deep learning: A feasibility study using high‐resolution whole‐brain diffusion at 7 Tesla
Authors: Ma Xiaodong , Uğurbil Kâmil , Wu Xiaoping
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To propose a novel deep learning (DL) approach to transmit‐B1 (B1+)‐artifact mitigation without direct use of parallel transmission (pTx), by predicting pTx images from single‐channel transmission (sTx) images.

Methods

A deep encoder–decoder convolutional neural network was constructed and trained to learn the mapping from sTx to pTx images. The feasibility was demonstrated using 7 T Human‐Connectome Project (HCP)‐style diffusion MRI. The training dataset comprised images acquired on 5 healthy subjects using commercial Nova RF coils. Relevant hyperparameters were tuned with a nested cross‐validation, and the generalization performance evaluated using a regular cross‐validation.

Results

Our DL method effectively improved the image quality for sTx images by restoring the signal dropout, with quality measures (including normalized root‐mean‐square error, peak SNR, and structural similarity index measure) improved in most brain regions. The improved image quality was translated into improved performances for diffusion tensor imaging analysis; our method improved accuracy for fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity estimations, reduced the angular errors of principal eigenvectors, and improved the fiber orientation delineation relative to sTx images. Moreover, the final DL model trained on data of all 5 subjects was successfully used to predict pTx images for unseen new subjects (randomly selected from the 7 T HCP database), effectively recovering the signal dropout and improving color‐coded fractional anisotropy maps with largely reduced noise levels.

Conclusion

The proposed DL method has potential to provide images with reduced B1+ artifacts in healthy subjects even when pTx resources are inaccessible on the user side.
A comparative study of malocclusion and its severity in the Ottoman period and modern populations
Authors: Shalish Miriam , Hager Roee , Brin Ilana , Ben‐Bassat Yocheved , Khalifa Ahmed , Zini Avraham , Faerman Marina
Published: April 2022

Malocclusion is a well‐known phenomenon since antiquity. Previous studies found an increase in malocclusion in the modern population. This study was undertaken to assess the frequency and severity of malocclusions in a sample of ancient skulls and to compare these findings with a modern sample, using the same examination protocol. The archaeological sample comprised 63 skulls from Dor, northern Israel, dated to the 16th–19th centuries. Skull examination was performed in maximal occlusion by using a clinically based approach. The modern sample comprised a random, ethnicity‐matched group of 340 school students, aged 11–16 years, who underwent a clinical orthodontic examination. The following parameters were recorded for both groups: Angle's classification, overjet, overbite, crowding, spacing, midlines, and crossbite. Descriptive statistics was obtained for all the parameters examined, and the results were compared between the groups. Differences were considered significant at p < 0.05. The frequency of the occlusal relationships according to Angle's classification in the two groups was different, although the difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.471). However, the main difference between the two groups was recorded in Angle's Class I malocclusion, which was remarkably more prevalent in the modern population, and in a higher prevalence of normal occlusion in the archaeological group. The distribution of malocclusion severity was significantly different in the two groups (p < 0.01). Frequency of crowding in the maxilla (33.9% vs. 15.4%) and mandible (55.3% vs. 29.6%) was significantly higher in the modern group (p < 0.01). The frequency of open bite was higher in the archaeological group (p < 0.01). The secular trend observed in this study could be attributed to poor oral health and inadequate food supply in the past, as well as changes in food processing over the years.
A systematic review of adherence to anticoagulation regimens in pediatric patients
Authors: Todd Kevin E. , McGrady Meghan E. , Starbuck Edith , Previtera Melissa , Luchtman‐Jones Lori
Published: April 2022

Thromboembolic disease rates are increasing in pediatric patients. Anticoagulation is prescribed for treatment and prevention of thromboembolic disease. While nonadherence to anticoagulation regimens predicts poor health outcomes in adults, data in anticoagulated pediatric patients are limited. We systematically reviewed the rates, outcomes, and predictors of anticoagulation nonadherence in the pediatric population. Out of a total of 3581 unique articles identified for review, 17 studies met inclusion criteria. These studies primarily evaluated patients with cardiac disease treated with vitamin K antagonists. Overall nonadherence rates varied from 3% to 42%, based upon population, definition of adherence, and measurement strategy. Patient age, goal international normalized ratio (INR), and number of concurrent potentially interacting medications correlated with nonadherence. Data examining the relationship between nonadherence and health outcomes were included in only two studies. Limitations of current literature, as well as critical knowledge gaps that require future study, are discussed.
The cell‐free DNA virome of 108,349 Dutch pregnant women
Authors: Linthorst Jasper , Baksi Moezammin M. M. , Welkers Matthijs R. A. , Sistermans Erik A.
Published: April 2022

Objective

Viral infections during pregnancy are a major health concern to mother and fetus. By repurposing cell‐free Non Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) sequencing data, we investigated prevalence and abundance of viral DNA in a cohort of 108,349 pregnant women.

Method

Cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) sequencing reads that did not map to any of the human chromosomes or mitochondrial DNA of the human reference genome build GRCh38 were aligned to 224 DNA viruses selected from the NCBI refseq viral database.

Results

In total 443,665 reads of viral origin were detected across 42,273 samples representing 165 viral species. Several are known to be potentially harmful during pregnancy and/or childbirth, including Cytomegalovirus, Parvovirus B19 and Hepatitis B. Viral sequences were mostly detected at very low abundance. However, several cases had exceptionally high viral loads for Parvovirus B19, Hepatitis B and others. We found statistically significant associations between presence of viral DNA and gestational age, maternal age, fetal fraction, cfDNA concentration and others.

Conclusion

We demonstrate the feasibility to detect viral DNA from typical genome‐wide NIPT cfDNA sequencing and describe the main characteristics of the viral DNA in our cohort. Our dataset of detected viral sequence reads is made publicly available to guide future clinical implementations.
Improving the conductivity and dimensional stability of anion exchange membranes by grafting of quaternized dendrons
Authors: Wei Xiangtai , Wu Jianrong , Jiang Hao , Zhao Xinsheng , Zhu Yuanqin
Published: April 2022

High conductivity is critical for the practical applications of anion exchange membranes (AEMs) in fuel cells. In this study, a new strategy for enhanced conductivity and dimensional stability of AEMs by incorporating quaternized dendrons is proposed. Thanks to the introduced quaternized dendrons, distinct nanoscale phase separation and well‐connected ion conductive channels are formed in the as‐prepared membranes (PPO‐QG‐x). As a result, PPO‐QG‐x AEMs achieve high hydroxide conductivities up to 65.5 mS cm−1 at 20 °C and 121.5 mS cm−1 at 80 °C (IEC = 1.95 mmol g−1), while possessing good dimensional stability. Meanwhile, PPO‐QG‐x AEMs show good alkaline stability with the maximum loss in conductivity of 15.1% after treated in 2 M NaOH at 80 °C for 960 h. In addition, the single‐cell assembled with PPO‐QG‐12 membrane exhibit a peak power density of 249.4 mW cm−2 at 60 °C. Overall, this work provides a new insight to achieve high conductivity of AEMs.
Mesoporous carbons from self‐assembled polymers
Authors: Robertson Mark , Zagho Moustafa M. , Nazarenko Sergei , Qiang Zhe
Published: April 2022

Polymer self‐assembly provides a robust and cost‐efficient nanomanufacturing platform for enabling a broad range of applications, such as microelectronics, drug delivery, and separation membranes. This review focuses on discussing the progress and opportunities of self‐assembled polymer in the synthesis of mesoporous carbons (MCs), which have aroused significant research interests over the past decades. Specifically, we will discuss the two most established approaches for converting nanostructured polymers to MCs, including templating‐based and direct pyrolysis‐based methods. We will also review the fundamental ordering mechanisms and kinetics of these polymeric systems and discuss the recent development of engineering methods for providing on‐demand control over the pore size and morphology of MCs. Additionally, this review article also includes a section focusing on the strategies to further functionalize these materials from self‐assembled polymers to enhance their performance, such as chemical activation, heteroatom doping, introduction of nanoparticles into the carbon matrix, and enhancing graphitization degree of carbon walls. Finally, a brief perspective is provided about the emerging research opportunity in this exciting field.
Structural basis for the helical filament formation of Escherichia coli glutamine synthetase
Authors: Huang Pei‐Chi , Chen Shao‐Kang , Chiang Wei‐Hung , Ho Meng‐Ru , Wu Kuen‐Phon
Published: April 2022

Escherichia coli glutamine synthetase (EcGS) spontaneously forms a dodecamer that catalytically converts glutamate to glutamine. EcGS stacks with other dodecamers to create a filament‐like polymer visible under transmission electron microscopy. Filamentous EcGS is induced by environmental metal ions. We used cryo‐electron microscopy (cryo‐EM) to decipher the structure of metal ion (nickel)‐induced EcGS helical filament at a sub‐3Å resolution. EcGS filament formation involves stacking of native dodecamers by chelating nickel ions to residues His5 and His13 in the first N‐terminal helix (H1). His5 and His13 from paired parallel H1 helices provide salt bridges and hydrogen bonds to tightly stack two dodecamers. One subunit of the EcGS filament hosts two nickel ions, whereas the dodecameric interface and the ATP/Mg‐binding site both host a nickel ion each. We reveal that upon adding glutamate or ATP for catalytic reactions, nickel‐induced EcGS filament reverts to individual dodecamers. Such tunable filament formation is often associated with stress responses. Our results provide detailed structural information on the mechanism underlying reversible and tunable EcGS filament formation.
Theoretically exploring the bonding properties of trivalent transuranic elements with 2‐(2‐amino‐2‐oxyethoxy) acetic acid
Authors: Zhang Yiying , Wu Shouqiang , Li Anyong
Published: April 2022

In recent years, the extraction of actinides from high‐level liquid waste is a key step in nuclear waste disposal. However, it is difficult to separate and extract adjacent trivalent actinides An (III) due to similar electron configuration in outer layers. Therefore, studying the law of the bonding between ligands and actinides is essential for designing robust ligands. Here, we demonstrate the in‐group transuranic actinides separation ability of 2‐(2‐amino‐2‐oxoethoxy) acetic acid (HL) through quasi‐relativistic density functional theory (DFT). In the acidic environment of HCl, the extraction of An (III) is governed by cation‐exchange mechanism, forming the complexes [ML2 (H2O)2]+(M = Np, Pu, Am, Cm, Bk) with the deprotonated L− anion during the extraction process. Through calculating the molecular structure and thermodynamic properties of the complexes [ML2 (H2O)2]+, it shows that there exists weak covalent interaction between trivalent transuranic metal ions and ligands L−. Both electrostatic potential and molecular orbital analyses of the ligand L− indicate that the n‐dodecane is an excellent organic solvent for extraction of actinide ions than cyclohexanone. Bonding nature analysis validates that the interaction between An (III) and ligand L− gradually weakens from Np to Cm, and then strengthens from Cm to Bk. The peculiar extraction property of Cm3+ may be connected with its unique electronic structure. Our study may provide reference for understanding the bonding between actinides and ligands, and explore the extraction properties of ligands in different organic solvents, aiming at designing more efficient ligands for the separation of actinides.
The chirality of isotopomers of glycine compared using next‐generationQTAIM
Authors: Nie Xing , Yang Yong , Xu Tianlv , Biczysko Malgorzata , Kirk Steven R. , Jenkins Samantha
Published: April 2022

The effect of a deuterium (D) or tritium (T) isotope bonded to the alpha carbon of glycine is determined without the need to apply external forces, for example, electric fields or using normal mode analysis. Isotopic effects were accounted for using the mass‐dependent diagonal Born‐Oppenheimer energy correction (DBOC) at the CCSD level of theory. We calculated the stress tensor trajectories of the dominant C‐N bond within next generation quantum theory of atoms in molecules (NG‐QTAIM). S‐character chirality was discovered using the stress tensor trajectories, instead of the Cahn–Ingold–Prelog (CIP) rules, for ordinary glycine. The S‐character chirality was preserved after the substitution of the H on the alpha carbon for a D isotope but transformed to R‐character chirality after replacement with the T isotope. This reversal of the chirality depending on the presence of a single D or T isotope bound to the alpha carbon adds to the debate on the nature of the extraterrestrial origins of chirality in simple amino acids. We demonstrate that NG‐QTAIM is a promising tool for understanding isotopic induced electronic charge density changes, useful in analysis of infrared (IR) or circular dichroism (CD) spectra explaining changes in mode couplings and bands intensities or sign.
An accurate 3D augmented reality navigation system with enhanced autostereoscopic display for oral and maxillofacial surgery
Authors: Han Boxuan , Li Ruiyang , Huang Tianqi , Ma Longfei , Liang Hanying , Zhang Xinran , Liao Hongen
Published: April 2022

Background

Oral and maxillofacial surgery demands high precision navigation to achieve optimal surgical outcomes. Augmented reality (AR) has been a promising solution for intuitive and accurate guidance, whereas existing systems have room for improvement.

Methods

We propose a high quality and accurate in situ AR navigation system. Enhanced image quality is achieved by deploying eye tracking in lenticular‐based autostereoscopic display. Viewpoint tracking and optical tracking are integrated to assure accurate in situ images.

Results

The proposed system can provide in situ AR images in real‐time, with a viewing angle of 59.5° × 49.1°, 3D image resolution of 0.35 × 0.21 mm, and image accuracy of 0.99 ± 0.70 mm. A maxillary drilling experiment obtains average position error of 1.12 ± 0.30 mm and localization time of 8.7 ± 3.9 s, significantly better than conventional 2D navigation system.

Conclusions

The proposed system can display high‐quality AR images and therefore reduce positioning error and operating time.