bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of different CT maps for attenuation correction and segmentation in static 99mTc‐MAA SPECT/CT for 90Y radioembolization treatment planning: A simulation study
Authors: Lu Zhonglin , Chen Gefei , Lin Kuan‐Heng , Wu Tung‐Hsin , Mok Greta S. P. 
Published: May 2021

PurposeConventional 99mTc‐macroaggregated albumin (99mTc‐MAA) planar scintigraphy overestimates lung shunt fraction (LSF) compared to SPECT/CT. However, the respiratory motion artifact due to the temporal mismatch between static SPECT and helical CT (HCT) may compromise the SPECT quantitation accuracy by incorrect attenuation correction (AC) and volume‐of‐interest (VOI) segmentation. This study aims to evaluate AC and VOI segmentation effects systematically and to propose a CT map for LSF and tumor‐to‐normal liver ratio (TNR) estimation in static 99mTc‐MAA SPECT/CT.MethodsThe 4D XCAT phantom was used to simulate a phantom population of 120 phantoms, modeling 10 different anatomical variations, nine TNRs (2–13.2), nine tumor sizes (2–6.7 cm diameter), eight tumor locations, three axial motion amplitudes of 1, 1.5, and 2 (cm), and four LSFs of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%. An analytical projector for low‐energy high‐resolution parallel‐hole collimator was used to simulate 60 noisy projections over 360°, modeling attenuation and geometric collimator–detector response (GCDR). AC and VOI mismatch effects were investigated independently and together, using cine average CT (CACT), HCT at end‐inspiration (HCT‐IN), mid‐respiration (HCT‐MID), and end‐expiration (HCT‐EX) respectively as attenuation and segmentation maps. SPECT images without motion, AC, and VOI errors were also generated as reference. LSF and TNR errors were measured as compared to the ground truth.ResultsHCT‐MID has slightly better performance for AC effect compared with other CT maps in LSF and TNR estimation, while HCT‐EX and HCT‐MID perform better for VOI effect. For a respiratory motion amplitude of 1.5 cm and a LSF of 5%, the LSF errors are 19.56 ± 4.58%, −6.79 ± 1.74%, 77.29 ± 14.74%, and 111.25 ± 18.29% corresponding to HCT‐MID, HCT‐EX, HCT‐IN, and CACT in static SPECT. The TNR errors are −12.38 ± 6.42%, −20.55 ± 11.25%, −20.89 ± 9.98%, and −22.89 ± 14.38% respectively. HCT‐MID has the best performance for LSF estimation for LSF > 10% and TNR estimation, followed by HCT‐EX, HCT‐IN, and CACT.ConclusionsThe HCT‐MID is recommended for AC and segmentation to alleviate respiratory artifacts and improve quantitation accuracy in 90Y radioembolization treatment planning. HCT‐EX would also be a recommended choice if HCT‐MID is not available.
Antifibrosis treatment by inhibition of VEGF, FGF, and PDGF receptors improves bladder wall remodeling and detrusor overactivity in association with modulation of C‐fiber afferent activity in mice with spinal cord injury
Authors: Kwon Joonbeom , Lee Eun‐Ju , Cho Hyun‐Jung , Jang Ji‐Ae , Han Min‐Su , Kwak Eunkyoung , Kim Haesoo , An Jihyun , Park Donghwi , Han Seungwoo , Shimizu Nobutaka , Suzuki Takahisa , Takaoka Ei‐Ichiro , Yoshimura Naoki 
Published: May 2021

AbstractAimsSpinal cord injury (SCI) above the sacral level causes bladder dysfunction and remodeling with fibrosis. This study examined the antifibrotic effects using nintedanib, an inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, and platelet‐derived growth factor receptors, on detrusor overactivity (DO) and bladder fibrosis, as well as the modulation mechanisms of C‐fiber afferent pathways.MethodsThirty female C57BL/6 mice were divided into group A (spinal intact), group B (SCI with vehicle), and group C (SCI with nintedanib). At 2 weeks after SCI, vehicle or 50 mg/kg nintedanib was administered subcutaneously for 2 weeks. Then, cystometry was conducted, followed by RT‐PCR measurements of fibrosis‐related molecules, muscarinic, β‐adrenergic, TRP and purinergic receptors in the bladder or L6‐S1 dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Trichrome stain and Western blot analysis of transforming growth factor‐beta and fibronectin were performed in the bladder. TRPV1 expression in L6 DRG was measured by immunohistochemistry.ResultsIn cystometry, intercontraction intervals, nonvoiding contractions, voided volume, and voiding efficiency were significantly improved in group C versus group B. RT‐PCR, Western blotting, and trichrome staining revealed the fibrotic changes in the bladder of group B, which was improved in group C. Increased messenger RNA levels of TRPV1, TRPA1, P2X2, and P2X3 in DRG of group B were significantly decreased in group C. TRPV1 immunoreactivity in DRG was increased in group B, but decreased in group C.ConclusionsNintedanib improves storage and voiding dysfunctions and bladder fibrosis in SCI mice. Also, nintedanib‐induced improvement of DO is associated with reduced expression of C‐fiber afferent markers, suggesting the modulation of bladder C‐fiber afferent activity.
Clinical Nutrition and Human Rights. An International Position Paper
Authors: Cardenas Diana , Correia Maria Isabel Toulson Davisson , Ochoa Juan B. , Hardy Gil , Rodriguez‐Ventimilla Dolores , Bermúdez Charles E. , Papapietro Karin , Hankard Régis , Briend André , Ungpinitpong Winai , Zakka Katerina Mary , Pounds Teresa , Cuerda Cristina , Barazzoni Rocco 
Published: May 2021

AbstractThe International Working Group for Patients' Right to Nutritional Care presents its position paper regarding nutritional care as a human right intrinsically linked to the right to food and the right to health. All people should have access to food and evidence‐based medical nutrition therapy including artificial nutrition and hydration. In this regard, the hospitalized malnourished ill should mandatorily have access to screening, diagnosis, nutritional assessment, with optimal and timely nutritional therapy in order to overcome malnutrition associated morbidity and mortality, while reducing the rates of disease‐related malnutrition. This right does not imply there is an obligation to feed all patients at any stage of life and at any cost. On the contrary, this right implies, from an ethical point of view, that the best decision for the patient must be taken and this may include, under certain circumstances, the decision not to feed. Application of the human rights‐based approach to the field of clinical nutrition will contribute to the construction of a moral, political, and legal focus to the concept of nutritional care. Moreover, it will be the cornerstone to the rationale of political and legal instruments in the field of clinical nutrition.
Phylogeny explains why less therapeutically redundant plant species are not necessarily facing greater use pressure
Authors: Coe Michael A. , Gaoue Orou G. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Understanding which factors influence medicinal plant species selection and harvest or use pressure can provide valuable insights for sustainable management of natural resources and conservation efforts. The utilitarian redundancy model, a theoretical framework in ethnobotany, suggests that species that are therapeutically redundant or fulfil similar therapeutic functions within traditional ethnomedicine are less likely to be under greater use pressure. However, species' evolutionary relatedness and the preference of certain species over others to treat a given illness can directly affect how use pressure is diffused across several groups of species. These factors may alter the strength of the therapeutic redundancy–use pressure relationship.

Medicinal plant species that fulfil the same therapeutic functions may experience greater use pressure despite their level of therapeutic redundancy because they are preferred, where most people select these species preferably over other species that are equally available for a given treatment. Furthermore, species that are closely related evolutionarily may be more likely to be harvested not because they are therapeutically unique but because they share evolutionary traits such as secondary chemistry with other medicinally important species which may make them more prone to being harvested.

We investigate the effects of species therapeutic redundancy, use value, preference and evolutionary relatedness on species use pressure in the Shipibo‐Konibo community of Paoyhan in the Peruvian Amazon region. We used phylogenetic generalized least squares models to identify significant predictors of species use pressure for 62 medicinal plant species cited by 30 participants and fulfilling 31 therapeutic functions in Shipibo‐Konibo ethnomedicine.

Our model controlling for species' shared evolutionary history indicated that therapeutically redundant medicinal plants experienced greater levels of use pressure. However, as preference increased, the effect of therapeutic redundancy on species use pressure became less positive. Contrary to predictions, species preference by local people alone did not predict use pressure. Furthermore, when we control for species' shared evolutionary history, the effect of preference on species use pressure was dependent on therapeutic redundancy.

Our study illustrates the importance of controlling for evolutionary relatedness between species in studying plant–human interactions and the complexity involved in employing the utilitarian redundancy model to inform management and conservation efforts.

A free plain language summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Fragility of short‐chain poly(lactic acid)s derivatives by combining dielectric spectroscopy and fast scanning calorimetry
Authors: Moghaddam Sareh Mahmoudian , Quelennec Blandine , Delpouve Nicolas , Atawa Bienvenu , Delbreilh Laurent , Saiter–Fourcin Allisson , Passaglia Elisa , Fiori Stefano 
Published: May 2021

AbstractLow‐molecular‐mass bio‐polyesters, such as lactic acid oligomers, constitute a growing category of plasticizers for poly (lactic acid), since they show good compatibility and are respectful of the environment. This study focuses on the glass transition of a series of oligomers with different molecular weights, with the aim of investigating how their associated dynamics occur. Dielectric and calorimetric results are combined to study the molecular mobility in a large temperature range. In comparison with poly (lactic acid), the oligomers exhibit a lower fragility index and smaller cooperative rearranging regions. Among oligomers, the fragility is clearly dependent on the molecular weight, whereas the variations of the cooperativity are subtler.
Graphite production in two‐temperature non‐LTE plasmas of C4F7N and C5F10O mixed with CO2, N2, and O2 as eco‐friendly SF6 replacements: A numerical study
Authors: Zhong Linlin , Gu Qi , Wu Bingyu 
Published: May 2021

AbstractMany recent works have shown that C4F7N and C5F10O have a great potential to replace SF6 as a greenhouse gas. One of the biggest problems for their application is that condensed species (i.e., graphite) may be produced during gas discharges. However, all the previous works are performed under the assumption of local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE). Therefore, this study investigates the departure of thermodynamic equilibrium and the corresponding effects on the graphite production in the plasmas of C4F7N, C5F10O, and their mixtures with CO2, N2, and O2, based on the two‐temperature (2T) non‐LTE plasma compositions calculated by the Gibbs free energy minimization. The results show that neglecting the nonequilibrium effect can lead to a very inaccurate description of graphite condensation in the above plasmas.
Numerical Simulation of HTPB Resin Curing Process Using OpenFOAM and Study the Effect of Different Conditions on its Curing Time
Authors: Moghimi Rad Hamed , Tavangar Roosta Saeed , Motamed Shariati Seyed Hadi , Ghorban Hosseini Seyed 
Published: May 2021

AbstractThe main purpose of this study is to optimize the curing time of HTPB, by analyzing the curing process in different conditions. Solving equations have been performed using OpenFOAM software and according to the finite volume method. To solve the curing equation, a new solver called CureFOAM was developed and added to the OpenFOAM. Using the experimental results available in the sources, the developed solver was validated. The maximum relative error is +5 %. After validating the CureFOAM solver, the effect of various factors affecting the curing process was simulated. Based on the results, an increase of 10 °C temperature reduces curing time to 2 days, and the use of a fan oven in the Reynolds 1500 range, reduces curing time by up to 50 percent. Also, the curing process in the mold of a rectangular cube is done faster than the cylindrical and spherical molds, in different aspect ratios.
Pharmacokinetics and safety of TCMCB07, a melanocortin‐4 antagonist peptide in dogs
Authors: Axiak‐Bechtel Sandra M. , Leach Stacey B. , Scholten David G. , Newton‐Northup Jessica R. , Johnson Brendan J. , Durham H. E. , Gruber Kenneth A. , Callahan Michael F. 
Published: May 2021

AbstractThe melanocortin‐4 receptor (MC4R) antagonistic peptide TCMCB07 was developed for the treatment of cachexia. The objectives of this study were to examine pharmacokinetics and safety of TCMCB07 administered subcutaneously to healthy dogs. Dogs were treated with high‐ (2.25 mg kg−1) (n = 5) and low‐dose TCMCB07 (0.75 mg kg−1) (n = 5) once daily for 28 days with a 14‐day washout period between groups. Histamine levels, complete blood count, chemistry panel, blood pressure, 24‐hour Holter recording, and pharmacokinetic parameters were monitored in the high‐dose group. Physical examination changes were limited to weight gain and darkening of the coat color. There was no elevation of plasma histamine within 24 hours of injection but there was a significant elevation of plasma histamine across time. An approximately doubled eosinophil count and an approximately 25% increase, and then 25% decrease back to pre‐treatment plasma phosphorous were also found, although both remained within the reference interval. Serial blood pressure and 24‐hour Holter monitors revealed no clinically relevant changes. A difference was found in the AUC between dosing groups and a significant effect of dose, time, and interaction was noted for Vd. Low‐dose TCMCB07 had a Cmaxof 2.1 ug ml−1at day 28, compared to high‐dose TCMCB07 which had a Cmax3.6 ug ml−1at day 28. Once‐daily subcutaneous administration of TCMCB07 was well‐tolerated for up to 28 days in dogs when administered at doses one and three times (0.75 mg kg−1and 2.25 mg kg−1) the predicted therapeutic dose and pharmacokinetic parameters are described.Significance StatementMelanocortin‐4 receptor (MC4R) antagonistic peptide TCMCB07 is safe at both low and high doses in dogs. Therapy was tolerated well as determined by physical examination, clinical pathology, and cardiovascular parameters; darkening of the coat was noted with treatment and resolved with discontinuation. Pharmacokinetics are described and further study in the naturally occurring canine model is warranted.
The detailed clinical objectives approach to designing clinical trials and choosing estimands
Authors: Bell James , Hamilton Alan , Sailer Oliver , Voss Florian 
Published: May 2021

AbstractObjective setting is a necessary early step in the development of a clinical trial. ICH E9(R1) notes that the clinical objectives of a trial lead directly to the choice of estimands but barely discusses objectives themselves. Indeed, there is very little guidance anywhere in literature about objectives in clinical trials. This article identifies the substantial overlap between description of estimands and high quality definitions of objectives. It consequently shows that the estimand is decided by the precise choice of trial objective, and that therefore estimand decisions should be made at the objective level. The Detailed Clinical Objectives approach is proposed to support this. It emphasises clarity, specificity and a clinical focus when choosing and documenting objectives. Template text and examples are included to provide guidance on how it can be used in real trials. Finally, we describe objective‐driven trial design, emphasising how strong objective setting establishes an important foundation for rigorous trial design discussions, logistical and operational decision‐making during trial preparations, and clear communication of results and conclusions at the end of the trial. Highlighting the distinctions between objectives and estimands, we note how an objective‐based framework can build on the ICH E9(R1) estimand framework to address many of its unanswered questions.
Vaporization thermodynamics of In2O3 by Knudsen effusion mass spectrometry. The standard enthalpy of formation of In2O(g)
Authors: Smirnov Andrey S. , Gribchenkova Nadezhda A. , Alikhanyan Andrey S. 
Published: May 2021

RationaleIn2O3 is one of the most important semiconductor oxides in modern electronics. Vacuum deposition methods are often used for the preparation of In2O3‐based nanomaterials. Thus, vaporization thermodynamics is of key importance for process control and optimization. Since the literature data on the vapor composition and partial pressure values for In2O3 are contradictory, vaporization thermodynamics of In2O3 needs to be clarified.MethodsVaporization behavior of In2O3 was studied using the Knudsen effusion technique in the temperature range 1400–1610 K. Quartz effusion cells were employed. A magnet mass spectrometer with an ordinary focus and a sector‐type analyzer was used. Heating of samples and molecular beam ionization were performed by electron impact. The operating ionizing electron energy was 75 eV.ResultsA specially designed experiment allowed us to determine the individual mass spectrum of the In2O molecule and, thus, to interpret the mass spectrum of the vapor registered during In2O3 vaporization. The composition of the equilibrium vapor was quantified and the partial pressures of the vapor species were determined. On the basis of the experimental data, the standard enthalpies of some gaseous and heterogeneous reactions taking place during In2O3 vaporization and the standard enthalpy of formation of In2O(g) were calculated.ConclusionsThe presence of In species in the vapor over In2O3 was confirmed and the vapor composition was quantified. Thermodynamic characteristics of In2O3 vaporization were obtained and a value of the standard enthalpy of formation of In2O(g) was recommended. These data can be used for further thermodynamic calculations and for evaluating parameters for the synthesis and exploitation of In2O3‐containing materials.
Co‐designed sampled‐data output consensus for multi‐agent systems
Authors: Cao Kecai , Qian Chunjiang , Gu Juping , Hua Liang 
Published: May 2021

AbstractSampled‐data output consensus problem has been firstly considered within co‐design framework where control gains and sampling periods are incorporated together. In construction of co‐designed controllers, we firstly introduce a scaled coordinate transformation for the original system in the continuous‐time domain. Then design of sampled‐data controllers with absolute/relative damping and stability analysis of closed‐loop system have been conducted directly in discrete‐time domain. Main novelty of the co‐design method lies in that the sampling period can be arbitrarily large due to the compensation of control gains. Compared with previous work on sampled‐data consensus protocols, conservatism on allowable sampling periods has been greatly relaxed and more flexibility has been provided for digital implementation of the obtained sampled‐data controllers. Simulation studies with different sampling periods are also provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the co‐designed sampled‐data output controllers.
Spawning activity of European grayling (Thymallus thymallus) driven by interdaily water temperature variations: Case study Gr. Mühl River/Austria
Authors: Hauer Christoph , Unfer Günther 
Published: May 2021

AbstractInterdaily water temperature variations were studied at a known spawning site of European grayling (Thymallus thymallus) in the Große Mühl River, Austria. Spawning activity was visually observed from a bridge where spawners were counted and their activity/behaviour documented twice a day. The spawning of grayling was documented for a temperature range of 7.8–11.5°C. Analysis of the collected data showed that spawning activity increases significantly when water temperatures rise during a day. In addition, the results showed a significant response in the relative water temperature increase, which was +3.5°C on average; however, the absolute temperature between periods of non‐activity and spawning activity exhibited no significant differences.
Smart Materials for Dynamic Thermal Radiation Regulation
Authors: Wei Hang , Gu Jinxin , Ren Feifei , Zhang Leipeng , Xu Gaoping , Wang Bo , Song Shanshan , Zhao Jiupeng , Dou Shuliang , Li Yao 
Published: May 2021

AbstractThermal radiation in the mid‐infrared region profoundly affects human lives in various fields, including thermal management, imaging, sensing, camouflage, and thermography. Due to their fixed emissivities, radiance features of conventional materials are usually proportional to the quadruplicate of surface temperature, which set the limit, that one type of material can only present a single thermal function. Therefore, it is necessary and urgent to design materials for dynamic thermal radiation regulations to fulfill the demands of the age of intelligent machines. Recently, the ability of some smart materials to dynamically regulate thermal radiation has been evaluated. These materials are found to be competent enough for various commands, thereby, providing better alternatives and tremendously promoting the commercial potentials. In this review, the dynamic regulatory mechanisms and recent progress in the evaluation of these smart materials are summarized, including thermochromic materials, electrochromic materials, mechanically and humidity responsive materials, with the potential applications, insufficient problems, and possible strategies highlighted.
Environmentally Compatible Wearable Electronics Based on Ionically Conductive Organohydrogels for Health Monitoring with Thermal Compatibility, Anti‐Dehydration, and Underwater Adhesion
Authors: Niu Yan , Liu Hao , He Rongyan , Luo Meiqing , Shu Maoguo , Xu Feng 
Published: May 2021

AbstractHydrogel‐based electronics have found widespread applications in soft sensing and health monitoring because of their remarkable biocompatibility and mechanical features similar to human skin. However, they are subjected to potential challenges like structural failure, functional degradation, and device delamination in practical applications, especially facing extreme environmental conditions (e.g., abnormal temperature and humidity). To address these, ionically conductive organohydrogel‐based soft electronics are developed, which can perform at subzero and elevated temperatures (thermal compatibility) as well as at dehydrated and hydrated environments (hydration compatibility) for extended applications. More specifically, gelatin/poly(acrylic acid–N‐hydrosuccinimide ester) (PAA–NHS ester)‐based ionic‐conductive organohydrogel is synthesized. By introducing a glycerol–water binary solvent system, the gel can maintain mechanical softness in a wide temperature range (from −80 to 60 °C). Besides, excellent conductivity is achieved under various conditions by soaking the gel into lithium chloride anhydrous (LiCl) solution. Strong adhesion with skin, even under water, can be realized by covalent bonds between NHS ester from gel and amino groups from human skin. The excellent performances of LiCl‐loaded PAA‐based organohydrogel (L‐PAA‐OH)‐based electronics are further demonstrated under freezing and high temperatures as well as underwater conditions, unveiling their promising prospects in wearable health monitoring in various conditions.