bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dose‐efficiency quantification of computed tomography systems using a model‐observer
Authors: Göppel Maximilian , Anton Mathias , Gala Hugo de las Heras , Giussani Augusto , Trinkl Sebastian , Renger Bernhard , Brix Gunnar 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundRecent advances in computed tomography (CT) technology have considerably improved the quality of CT images and reduced radiation exposure in patients. At present, however, there is no generally accepted figure of merit (FOM) for comparing the dose efficiencies of CT systems.Purpose(i) To establish an FOM that characterizes the quality of CT images in relation to the radiation dose by means of a mathematical model observer and (ii) to evaluate the new FOM on different CT systems and image reconstruction algorithms.MethodsImages of a homogeneous phantom with four low‐contrast inserts were acquired using three different CT systems at three dose levels and a representative protocol for CT imaging of low‐contrast objects in the abdomen. The images were reconstructed using filtered‐back projection and iterative algorithms. A channelized hotelling observer with difference‐of‐Gaussian channels was applied to compute the detectability (). This was done for each insert and each of the considered imaging conditions from square regions of interest (ROIs) that were (semi‐)automatically centered on the inserts. The estimated detectabilities () were averaged in the first step over the three dose levels (), and subsequently over the four contrast inserts (). All calculation steps included a dedicated assessment of the related uncertainties following accepted metrological guidelines.ResultsThe determined detectabilities () varied considerably with the contrast and diameter of the four inserts, as well as with the radiation doses and reconstruction algorithms used for image generation (= 1.3–5.5). Thus, the specification of a single detectability as an FOM is not well suited for comprehensively characterizing the dose efficiency of a CT system. A more comprehensive and robust characterization was provided by the averaged detectabilities and, in particular, . Our analysis reveals that the model observer analysis is very sensitive to the exact position of the ROIs.ConclusionsThe presented automatable software approach yielded with the weighted detectability an objective FOM to benchmark different CT systems and reconstruction algorithms in a robust and reliable manner. An essential advantage of the proposed model‐observer approach is that uncertainties in the FOM can be provided, which is an indispensable prerequisite for type testing.
Robust retrospective motion correction of head motion using navigator‐based and markerless motion tracking techniques
Authors: Marchetto Elisa , Murphy Kevin , Glimberg Stefan L. , Gallichan Daniel 
Published: May 2023

PurposeThis study investigated the artifacts arising from different types of head motion in brain MR images and how well these artifacts can be compensated using retrospective correction based on two different motion‐tracking techniques.MethodsMPRAGE images were acquired using a 3 T MR scanner on a cohort of nine healthy participants. Subjects moved their head to generate circular motion (4 or 6 cycles/min), stepwise motion (small and large) and “simulated realistic” motion (nodding and slow diagonal motion), based on visual instructions. One MPRAGE scan without deliberate motion was always acquired as a “no motion” reference. Three dimensional fat‐navigator (FatNavs) and a Tracoline markerless device (TracInnovations) were used to obtain motion estimates and images were separately reconstructed retrospectively from the raw data based on these different motion estimates.ResultsImage quality was recovered from both motion tracking techniques in our stepwise and slow diagonal motion scenarios in almost all cases, with the apparent visual image quality comparable to the no‐motion case. FatNav‐based motion correction was further improved in the case of stepwise motion using a skull masking procedure to exclude non‐rigid motion of the neck from the co‐registration step. In the case of circular motion, both methods struggled to correct for all motion artifacts.ConclusionHigh image quality could be recovered in cases of stepwise and slow diagonal motion using both motion estimation techniques. The circular motion scenario led to more severe image artifacts that could not be fully compensated by the retrospective motion correction techniques used.
Effect of substitution groups on the homopolymerization activity of methyl aryl diallyl ammonium chloride
Authors: Jia Xu , Wang Meiying , Yang Kui , Zhang Yuejun , Wang Guixiang , Tao Xianping 
Published: May 2023

AbstractDimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride (DMDAAC), recognized for its high positive charge density among the several diallyl quaternary ammonium cationic monomers, has been constrained in lipophilic applications by its structure. In this article, benzyl, p‐methylbenzyl, and p‐nitrobenzyl were introduced as structural modifications of DMDAAC to compensate for this. The effects of the introduced aryl structures on the molecular structure of the modified diallyl methyl aryl ammonium chloride and the polymerization activity of the monomers were explored by quantum chemical calculations and homopolymerization kinetic studies with ammonium persulfate (APS) as initiator. The results intuitively revealed the negative effect posed by the electron‐absorbing effect of the substituents on the polymerization activity of the monomers, and also highlighted the important role of the steric effect. The above work has provided a good theoretical foundation and experimental reserve for further research on the preparation and application of methyl aryl diallyl ammonium chloride.
Functional self‐healable EVA elastomers based on reversible covalent networks: A potential new class of epoxy‐based specialty adhesives
Authors: Raut Sagar Kumar , Mondal Prantik , Sarkar Shrabana , Parameswaran Bhavya , Bhadra Sambhu , Nair Sujith , Narain Ravin , Singha Nikhil K. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractMultifunctional elastomers have gained tremendous attention in the material research community. In this study, an epoxy functionalized elastomer poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate‐co‐glycidyl methacrylate) (EVA‐GMA) that is commercially available was modified with dynamic covalent chemistry to make it self‐healable and recyclable, as well as to investigate its adhesive properties. EVA‐GMA was modified to a furfuryl‐appended diene elastomer (FA‐EVA‐GMA) and subsequently cross‐linked with bifunctional 1,2,4‐triazoline‐3,5‐dione (bis‐TAD) and bismaleimide (BMI) derivatives via electrophilic substitution (ES) and Diels‐Alder (DA) chemistry, respectively. The ES modification of the elastomer was ambiently completed using bis‐TAD, whereas its maleimide modification required elevated conditions (65 °C) with a longer time of 24 h. The tensile study showed a remarkable improvement in the mechanical strength upon cross‐linking the elastomers. The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis elucidated the thermoreversible characteristics of both the ES and DA‐derived networks, showing the cleavage of ES and DA conjugates at 135 °C (retro‐ES) and 140 °C (retro‐DA), respectively. The cross‐linked elastomers exhibited significant self‐healing characteristics (with a healing efficiency of ≈ 88%) and monitored using an optical microscope and tensile analysis. Interestingly, the bis‐TAD‐derived and bismaleimide functionalized EVA‐elastomer showed excellent adhesive properties toward the metal surfaces, as analyzed via lap shear test.
Regeneration from seeds in a temperate native flora: A climate‐smart and natural–capital‐driven germination risk modelling approach
Authors: Mattana Efisio , Chapman Ted , Miles Stephanie , Ulian Tiziana , Carta Angelino 
Published: May 2023

Societal Impact StatementExceptionally rainy winters and hot–dry summers are becoming the new normal around the United Kingdom. The effects of these climatic changes can already be seen in forests and grasslands, agricultural fields and even in our own gardens, as native plants try to keep pace with them. In this study, the seed germination of the native flora of Wakehurst, in the Southeast England, was analysed to identify potential threats to the long‐term persistence of selected species, which are part of the natural landscape of this area. Recommendations are provided for ecological restoration interventions which aim to maintain the different potential benefits those plants can provide to people.Summary

Seeds play an important role in plant adaptation to human‐driven climate change. In this study, we applied a multilevel modelling of thermal germination responses of native temperate plants, to understand how global warming could affect their reproduction and the potential benefits they provide, as part of their natural capital.
We identified Wakehurst (Southeast England, UK), as our study system. We modelled thermal seed germination parameters of the native flora as a whole and according to different uses categories (e.g., medicinal or food plants), through a phylogenetic meta‐analysis of publicly available data from Kew's Millennium Seed Bank (MSB). We also carried out a comparative germination study for MSB seed lots of 20 selected species. Finally, we quantified the germination risk, by comparing current and predicted environmental temperatures with thermal germination parameters at flora, uses categories and species level.
Under future climatic scenarios, germination of the native flora will be at higher risk in spring than in autumn. Fitted quadratic models, although affected by phylogeny, did not show major differences among uses categories. Species with a narrow window of cold germination temperatures could be more at risk than those with warm optimal temperatures. Restoration activities should target species from phylogenetically clustered uses categories, to avoid losing their benefit provisions, and implement climate‐smart seed sourcing for high‐risk species.
This multilevel germination modelling approach, based on collections and available data from conservation seed banks, can be applied to selected floras and regions to inform climate‐smart ecological restoration activities, while accounting for their natural capital.
A population pharmacokinetic and pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic analysis of vupanorsen from phase I and phase II studies
Authors: Ahn Jae Eun , Terra Steven G. , Liu Jing 
Published: May 2023

AbstractVupanorsen (PF‐07285557) is a second‐generation ligand‐conjugated 2′O‐methoxyethyl modified antisense oligonucleotide designed to target angiopoietin‐like 3 (ANGPTL3) mRNA expressed by the liver, shown to reduce lipids and apolipoproteins in subjects with dyslipidemia. Using pooled data from two phase I studies of participants with elevated triglycerides (Western: n = 48 and Japanese: n = 12), and two phase II studies of patients with hypertriglyceridemia, diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (n = 105), and statin‐treated patients with dyslipidemia (n = 286), we developed population pharmacokinetic (PK) and PK/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) models. Efficacy target values were set a priori to −75%, −60%, and −35% for ANGPTL3, triglyceride (TG), and non‐high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (non‐HDL‐C), respectively. Covariates evaluated via a full model approach included baseline body weight, age, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), anti‐drug antibody (ADA) status, sex, and race. Vupanorsen population PK was well‐characterized by a two‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and elimination. Apparent clearance (CL/F) for ADA‐positive, female, and Asian participants was estimated to be about 62% (relative standard error 12%), 18% (9%), and 30% (20%) lower than ADA‐negative, male, and non‐Asian participants, respectively. The associations between CL/F and Black race, age, and eGFR were negligible. The developed population PK/PD model was robust to predict the dose–response relationships. The model predicted that ANGPTL3 target reduction of 75% can be sufficiently achieved with a 320‐mg monthly dose of vupanorsen, but target values for TG and non‐HDL‐C were not expected to be achieved at doses up to 320 mg monthly in patients with dyslipidemia.
Development and validation of an ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method to investigate the plasma pharmacokinetics of a KCa2.2/KCa2.3 positive allosteric modulator in mice
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Asikur , Chandrashekar Devaraj Venkatapura , Nam Young‐Woo , Syed Basir , Salehi David , Aliabadi Hamidreza Montazeri , Zhang Miao , Mehvar Reza 
Published: May 2023

RationaleThere is currently no treatment for spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs), which are a group of genetic disorders that often cause a lack of coordination, difficulty walking, slurred speech, tremors, and eventually death. Activation of KCa2.2/KCa2.3 channels reportedly exerts beneficial effects in SCAs. Here, we report the development and validation of an analytical method for quantitating a recently developed positive allosteric modulator of KCa2.2/KCa2.3 channels (compound 2q) in mouse plasma.MethodsMouse plasma samples (10 μL) containing various concentrations of 2q were subjected to protein precipitation in the presence of a structurally similar internal standard (IS). Subsequently, the analytes were separated on a C18 ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography column and detected by a tandem mass spectrometer. The method was validated using US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines. Finally, the validated assay was applied to the measurement of the plasma concentrations of 2q in plasma samples taken from mice after single intravenous doses of 2 mg/kg of 2q, and the pharmacokinetic parameters of 2q were determined.ResultsThe calibration standards were linear (r2 ≥ 0.99) in the range of 1.56–200 nM of 2q with intra‐ and inter‐run accuracy and precision values within the FDA guidelines. The lower limit of quantitation of the assay was 1.56 nM (0.258 pg on the column). The recoveries of 2q and IS from plasma were >94%, with no appreciable matrix effect. The assay showed no significant carryover, and the plasma samples stored at −80°C or the processed samples stored in the autosampler at 10°C were stable for at least 3 weeks and 36 h, respectively. After intravenous injection, 2q showed a bi‐exponential decline pattern in the mouse plasma, with a clearance of 30 mL/min/kg, a terminal volume of distribution of 1.93 mL/kg, and a terminal half‐life of 45 min.ConclusionsThe developed assay is suitable for preclinical pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic studies of 2q as a potential drug candidate for ataxias.
Perceived facilitators and barriers towards acceptability of human milk sharing among mothers in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Faruqui Wafi A. , Hossain Fahima , Rayna Shahrin E. , Thouhidur Rahman Khan Mohammad , Piyal Md. Salman M. , Khalequzzaman Md. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractObjectiveTo explore the facilitators and barriers towards participating in or rejecting human milk sharing among the mothers of infants below six months of age.MethodsThis study employed a mixed‐methods, cross‐sectional study design. Participants were 279 mothers, enrolled from five health institutions having specialised child health‐care services, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from December 2021 to January 2022. Quantitative data were collected by a pretested semistructured questionnaire, while qualitative data were collected using focus group discussions.ResultsOf all the participants, only 22.9% reported practising milk sharing. Those mothers who practised milk sharing were more likely to have >1 living child, delivered via caesarean birth, gave birth to preterm babies, and had newborns with birth weights <2500 g. The perceived facilitators identified for human milk sharing included helping babies in need, acknowledging the benefits of breastmilk, avoiding wastage, and supporting peers who were unable to breastfeed. Conversely, the most important barriers to sharing mentioned were, the need for permission from husband/family members, discomfort while sharing milk, wide availability of breast milk substitutes, and the establishment of milk kinship.ConclusionsThe findings underpin the key socio‐cultural and religious aspects in the acceptability of human milk sharing, and the importance of involving health professionals, mass media resources, and community, religious and social leaders when designing practical and culturally sensitive interventions to motivate mothers to overcome milk sharing hesitancy in Bangladesh.
Understandings and Misunderstandings About Dyslexia: Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Clemens Nathan H. , Vaughn Sharon 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThe purpose of this special issue was to provide a forum for contemporary research and thoughtful discourse about dyslexia. Scholars from several disciplines contributed articles that advance our understanding of dyslexia with regard to early identification, genetic and neural bases, assessment, instruction and intervention and educators' perspectives. In this article, we introduce the special issue, discuss current evidence and highlight persistent misunderstandings associated with dyslexia.
Spatiotemporal variations of riverine flood fatalities: 70 years global to regional perspective
Authors: Hamidifar Hossein , Nones Michael 
Published: May 2023

AbstractFloods are among the most devastating natural hazards worldwide. While rainfall is the primary trigger of floods, human activities and climate change can exacerbate the impacts of floods and lead to more significant economic and social consequences. In this research, fluvial flood fatalities in the 1951–2020 period have been studied, analyzing the information reported in the Emergency Database (EM‐DAT). The EM‐DAT data were classified into five categories in terms of the number of events and fatalities connected with riverine floods, considering only events that caused more than 10 fatalities. The results show that the severity of flood‐related fatalities is not equally distributed worldwide, but presents specific geographical patterns. The flood fatality coefficient, which represents the ratio between the total number of fatalities and the number of flood events, calculated for different countries, identified that the Southern, Eastern, and South‐Eastern regions of Asia have the deadliest floods in the world. The number of flood events has been increasing since 1951 and peaked in 2007, following a relative decline since then. Though, the resulting fatalities do not follow a statistically significant trend. An analysis of the number of flood events in different decades shows that the 2001–2010 decade saw the highest number of events, which corresponds to the largest precipitation anomaly in the world. The lethality of riverine floods decreased over time, from 412 per flood in 1951–1960 to 67 in the 2011–2020 decade. This declining trend is probably a consequence of a more resilient environment and better risk reduction strategies. Based on the presented data and using regression analysis, relationships between flood fatalities and the number of flood events with population density and gross domestic product are developed and discussed.
Preparation of Novel Chitosan Oligosaccharide Quaternary Ammonium Derivatives Bearing Quinoline with Antioxidative and Antibacterial Activities
Authors: Wang Linqing , Zhang Jingjing , Liu Xiguang , Tan Wenqiang , Li Qing , Guo Zhanyong 
Published: May 2023

AbstractIn this study, five new chitosan oligosaccharide quaternary ammonium derivatives bearing quinoline are synthesized by reaction between 6‐O‐chloroacetyl‐2‐N, N, N‐trimethyl quaternary ammonium salt chitosan oligosaccharide (CTCOS, compound 1) and quinoline derivatives. The derivatives are characterized by analytical techniques including Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. The obtained results confirm that quinoline groups are successfully introduced into the CTCOS molecule. Meanwhile, the antioxidant activities of the prepared chitosan oligosaccharide derivatives are evaluated in vitro. The experimental results show that the derivatives have excellent free radical scavenging ability. The free radical scavenging abilities are all over 75% at the concentration of 1.6 mg mL−1. Moreover, antibacterial tests show that derivative 2e has the best antibacterial activities. Its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) value against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli are 0.0625 and 0.03125 mg mL−1, respectively. In addition, the cytotoxicity of chitosan oligosaccharide and its derivatives is examined by MTT colorimetric assay in RAW 264.7 macrophages, observing that all derivatives are non‐cytotoxic. Consequently, the findings indicate that the enhanced antioxidant activity, antibacterial activity, and biocompatibility of these chitosan oligosaccharide derivatives can enlarge the scope of the application of chitosan oligosaccharides, particularly as antioxidant and antibacterial agents in food packaging, pharmaceutical, cosmetics industries, and other fields.
Triceps tendon avulsion in a cat
Authors: Philips Ryan , Chase Damian , Thompson Devon 
Published: May 2023

AbstractA 1‐year‐8‐month‐old, male, neutered Maine Coon presented to a referral veterinary hospital for a weight‐bearing lameness of the left thoracic limb that occurred 4 weeks prior to presentation. A transverse groove, proximal to the olecranon, was palpated in the area of the normal insertion of the triceps tendon. Computed tomography of the left thoracic limb revealed a complete avulsion of the long and lateral heads of the triceps brachii from the olecranon. Multiple, small, mineralised fragments were present within the distal portion of the retracted tendons of insertion, and there were corresponding osseous defects within the olecranon. A modified three‐loop pulley suture technique was utilised to fix the triceps tendon to the olecranon. The joint was then immobilised with a trans‐articular external skeletal fixator. Three months after surgery, the owners reported no abnormalities or concerns regarding the cat's elbow or ambulation.
Modular Control and Services to Operate Lineless Mobile Assembly Systems
Authors: Kluge-Wilkes Aline , Baier Ralph , Kunze Ike , Müller Aleksandra , Shahidi Amir , Wolfschläger Dominik , Brecher Christian , Corves Burkhard , Hüsing Mathias , Nitsch Verena , Schmitt Robert H. , Wehrle Klaus 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThe increasing product variability and lack of skilled workers demand for autonomous, flexible production. Since assembly is considered a main cost driver and accounts for a major part of production time, research focuses on new technologies in assembly. The paradigm of Line-less Mobile Assembly Systems (LMAS) provides a solution for the future of assembly by mobilizing all resources. Thus, dynamic product routes through spatiotemporally configured assembly stations on a shop floor free of fixed obstacles are enabled. In this chapter, we present research focal points on different levels of LMAS, starting with the macroscopic level of formation planning, followed by the mesoscopic level of mobile robot control and multipurpose input devices and the microscopic level of services, such as interpreting autonomous decisions and in-network computing. We provide cross-level data and knowledge transfer through a novel ontology-based knowledge management. Overall, our work contributes to future safe and predictable human-robot collaboration in dynamic LMAS stations based on accurate online formation and motion planning of mobile robots, novel human-machine interfaces and networking technologies, as well as trustworthy AI-based decisions.