bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Needle detection using ultrasound B‐mode and power Doppler analyses
Authors: Daoud Mohammad I. , Abu‐Hani Ayah F. , Shtaiyat Ahmad , Ali Mostafa Z. , Alazrai Rami 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBackgroundUltrasound is employed in needle interventions to visualize the anatomical structures and track the needle. Nevertheless, needle detection in ultrasound images is a difficult task, specifically at steep insertion angles.PurposeA new method is presented to enable effective needle detection using ultrasound B‐mode and power Doppler analyses.MethodsA small buzzer is used to excite the needle and an ultrasound system is utilized to acquire B‐mode and power Doppler images for the needle. The B‐mode and power Doppler images are processed using Radon transform and local‐phase analysis to initially detect the axis of the needle. The detection of the needle axis is improved by processing the power Doppler image using alpha shape analysis to define a region of interest (ROI) that contains the needle. Also, a set of feature maps is extracted from the ROI in the B‐mode image. The feature maps are processed using a machine learning classifier to construct a likelihood image that visualizes the posterior needle likelihoods of the pixels. Radon transform is applied to the likelihood image to achieve an improved needle axis detection. Additionally, the region in the B‐mode image surrounding the needle axis is analyzed to identify the needle tip using a custom‐made probabilistic approach. Our method was utilized to detect needles inserted in ex vivo animal tissues at shallow [), moderate [), and steep [] angles.ResultsOur method detected the needles with failure rates equal to 0% and mean angle, axis, and tip errors less than or equal to 0.7°, 0.6 mm, and 0.7 mm, respectively. Additionally, our method achieved favorable results compared to two recently introduced needle detection methods.ConclusionsThe results indicate the potential of applying our method to achieve effective needle detection in ultrasound images.
Phosphorus transversal relaxation times and metabolite concentrations in the human brain at 9.4 T
Authors: Dorst Johanna , Borbath Tamas , Ruhm Loreen , Henning Anke 
Published: May 2022

A method to estimate phosphorus (31P) transversal relaxation times (T2s) of coupled spin systems is demonstrated. Additionally, intracellular and extracellular pH and relaxation‐corrected metabolite concentrations are reported. Echo time (TE) series of 31P metabolite spectra were acquired using stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) localization. Spectra were fitted using LCModel with accurately modeled Versatile Simulation, Pulses and Analysis (VeSPA) basis sets accounting for J‐evolution of the coupled spin systems. T2s were estimated by fitting a single exponential two‐parameter model across the TE series. Fitted inorganic phosphate frequencies were used to calculate pH, and estimated relaxation times were used to determine the relaxation‐corrected brain metabolite concentrations on an assumption of 3 mM γ‐ATP. The method was demonstrated in healthy human brain at a field strength of 9.4 T. T2 times of ATP and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) were shortest between 8 and 20 ms, followed by T2s of inorganic phosphate between 25 and 50 ms, and phosphocreatine with a T2 of 100 ms. Phosphomonoesters and phosphodiesters had the longest T2s of about 130 ms. The measured T2s are comparable with literature values and fit in a decreasing trend with increasing field strengths. Calculated pHs and metabolite concentrations are also comparable with literature values.
Leveraging physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling to optimize dosing for lopinavir/ritonavir with rifampin in pediatric patients
Authors: Salerno Sara N. , Capparelli Edmund V. , McIlleron Helen , Gerhart Jacqueline G. , Dumond Julie B. , Kashuba Angela D. M. , Denti Paolo , Gonzalez Daniel 
Published: May 2022

AbstractStudy ObjectiveTreatment of HIV and tuberculosis co‐infection leads to significant mortality in pediatric patients, and treatment can be challenging due to the clinically significant drug–drug interaction (DDI) between lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/RTV) and rifampin. Doubling LPV/RTV results in insufficient lopinavir trough concentrations in pediatric patients. The objective of this study was to leverage physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling to optimize the adjusted doses of LPV/RTV in children receiving the WHO‐revised doses of rifampin (15 mg/kg daily).DesignAdult and pediatric PBPK models for LPV/RTV with rifampin were developed, including CYP3A and P‐glycoprotein inhibition and induction.Setting (or Data Source)Data for LPV/RTV model development and evaluation were available from the pediatric AIDS Clinical Trials Group.PatientsDosing simulations were next performed to optimize dosing in children (2 months to 8 years of age).InterventionExposure following super‐boosted LPV/RTV with 10 and 15 mg/kg PO daily rifampin was simulated.Measurements and Main ResultsSimulated parameters were within twofold observations for LPV, RTV, and rifampin in adults and children ≥2 weeks old. The model predicted that, in healthy adults receiving 400/100 mg oral LPV/RTV twice daily (BID), co‐treatment with 600 mg oral rifampin daily decreased the steady‐state area under the concentration vs. time curve of LPV by 79%, in line with the observed change of 75%. Simulated and observed concentration profiles were comparable for LPV/RTV (230/57.5 mg/m2) PO BID without rifampin and 230/230 mg/m2 LPV/RTV PO BID with 10 mg/kg PO daily rifampin in pediatric patients. Sixteen mg/kg of super‐boosted LPV (LPV/RTV 1:1) PO BID with 15 mg/kg PO daily rifampin achieved simulated LPV troughs >1 mg/L in ≥93% of virtual children weighing 3.0‐24.9 kg, which was comparable with 10 mg/kg PO daily rifampin.ConclusionsSuper‐boosted LPV/RTV with 15 mg/kg rifampin achieves therapeutic LPV troughs in HIV/TB‐infected simulated children.
Views of in‐person and virtual group exercise before and during the pandemic in people with Parkinson disease
Authors: Bennett Holly B. , Walter Christopher S. , Oholendt Chris K. , Coleman Kellie S. , Vincenzo Jennifer L. 
Published: May 2022

AbstractIntroductionDue to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), many health/wellness programs transitioned from in‐person to virtual. This mixed‐methods study aims to explore the perceptions of older adults with Parkinson disease (PD) regarding in‐person versus virtual‐based Parkinson‐specific exercise classes (PDEx).ObjectiveExplore experiences, perceptions, and perceived effect of participating in and transitioning from in‐person to virtual PDEx in people with Parkinson disease (PwPD).DesignCross‐sectional mixed‐methods design using an online survey and focus groups.SettingPwPD who participated in an in‐person and virtual PDEx (n = 26) were recruited to participate and completed online surveys and focus groups from their home during the COVID‐19 pandemic.ParticipantsPwPD who participated in an in‐person and virtual PDEx and agreed to participate completed an online survey (n = 16; male = 8; mean age = 74 years) and focus groups (n = 9; male = 4; mean age = 75 years).InterventionsN/AMain Outcome MeasuresParticipants completed survey questions and participated in focus groups regarding their perceptions, attitudes, and perceived changes in PD‐related symptoms since participating in the PDEx, as well as barriers and facilitators to participating in virtual PDEx.ResultsParticipants felt PDEx was somewhat to very safe and beneficial. In the computer, comfort, and perceptions survey, participants reported perceived improved mobility (63%), balance (75%), and overall health (63%) since participating the PDEx, whereas some participants reported improved mental health (38%). Participants reported minimal difficulty with accessing virtual PDEx. Most participants stated that they would prefer to participate in a combination of in‐person and virtual programming. Focus‐group participants emphasized that virtual PDEx provided social and emotional support and improved confidence to perform and maintain an exercise regimen.ConclusionPwPD who transitioned from an in‐person to a virtual PDEx felt the program was safe, effective, and improved or prevented declines in their mobility and balance. PwPD who transitioned to a virtual PDEx also reported benefits in non‐motor symptoms such as social isolation.
Physical activity and perceived barriers in individuals with moderate‐to‐severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Pham Tri , Green Rachel , Neaves Stephanie , Hynan Linda S. , Bell Kathleen R. , Juengst Shannon B. , Zhang Rong , Driver Simon , Ding Kan 
Published: May 2022

AbstractIntroductionRegular physical activity (PA), especially aerobic exercise, may benefit cognitive function in middle‐aged and older adults, but promoting regular PA in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a challenge.ObjectiveTo characterize PA and perceived barriers to PA in younger (<45 years) and middle age and older (≥45 years) individuals ≥1 year after moderate‐to‐severe TBI.DesignMulticenter survey study.SettingCommunity.ParticipantsPersons who met the following criteria were included in the study: (1) 18 years and older; (2) English speaking; (3) History of moderate‐to‐severe TBI; (4) Followed in a TBI Model Systems Center for at least 1 year; and (5) Able to complete the survey independently.InterventionNot applicable.Main Outcome Measure(s)PA level measured by Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity questionnaire (RAPA) and self‐reported barriers to PA.ResultsA total of 472 participants completed the survey (response rate of 21%). More individuals in the younger group (<45 years old) met Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended aerobic PA guidelines compared to the middle‐aged and older group (≥ 45 years old) (62% vs 36%, p < .001). Lack of motivation, lack of time, and fatigue were the most reported barriers. Perceived barriers to PA varied by age and PA level: the middle‐aged and older individuals (≥ 45 years old) were more likely to report no barriers and inactive individuals (RAPA ≤5) more likely to report lack of motivation and money, pain, and lack of resources.ConclusionParticipants ≥45 years of age were less likely to meet the CDC PA guidelines than younger individuals after moderate‐to‐severe TBI. Because perceived barriers to PA varied between age groups and PA levels, individualized approaches may be needed to promote PA in this population.
Optimization and evaluation of machine–field parameters of remotely controlled two‐wheel paddy transplanter
Authors: Lohan Shiv Kumar , Narang Mahesh Kumar , Javed Mohd , Kumar Vinay , Majumder Atin , Raghuvirsinh Parmar 
Published: May 2022

AbstractAmongst the various types of paddy transplanters; walk‐behind‐type transplanters are more economically viable as compared with riding‐type paddy transplanters. But, it requires more human involvement because the operator has to walk behind the two‐wheel walk‐behind‐type paddy transplanter in puddled field conditions up to about 10–22 km during a day‐long period under high temperature and humid conditions. To reduce the workload of the operator, a wireless remote‐controlled system has been developed to control the various hand control levers of walk‐behind‐type paddy transplanter through electric linear actuators and electronic control unit. The present study emphasizes the performance evaluation of the remote control system and optimizes the machine–field parameters. Response surface methodology was used with three levels of soil puddling settlement period (4, 26, and 48 h), three forward speeds (1.40, 1.85, and 2.30 km h−1) in two types of soils (light‐textured and medium‐textured). The response factors, that is, the effective field capacity (EFC) and field efficiency (FE) were found affected by forwarding speed, soil type, and soil puddling settlement period, but no significant effect was observed at the interaction level. The optimal value of soil puddling settlement period was 26 h at a forward speed of 2.0 km h−1for light‐textured soil, whereas for medium‐textured soil, it was 30 h at 1.82 km h−1. A total saving of up to 18.18% labor requirement was observed as required in the existing walk‐behind‐type paddy transplanter. The increase in EFC was observed up to 20%, resulting the net benefit per unit area and per year has been increased up to 6.59% and 15.86%, respectively. The overall results of the field evaluation showed that the remote‐controlled system for the two‐wheel paddy transplanter would be feasible at optimized field and machine parameters.
Unfused Acceptors Matching π‐Bridge Blocks with Proper Frameworks Enable Over 12% As‐Cast Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Yue , Lin Zhijie , Cao Jinru , Du Fuqiang , Wang Hongtao , He Shi , Tang Weihua 
Published: May 2022

AbstractEmerging unfused‐ring acceptors (UFAs) have been explored in pursuit of low‐cost high‐efficient organic solar cells (OSCs). Assembling unfused building blocks into proper frameworks are challenging for the molecular design of UFAs. The authors report herein four UFAs adopting either dithiophene cyclopentadiene (DTC) or dithieno[3,2‐b:2',3'‐d]pyrrole (DTP) as π‐bridge units with different molecular frameworks for high‐efficient as‐cast OSCs. All these acceptors exhibit strong near‐infrared absorption and narrow optical band gap (Egopt < 1.50 eV). DTC‐bridged symmetric and DTP‐bridged asymmetric UFAs exhibit higher planar conformation as well as suitable miscibility and homogeneous phase separation when blending with polymer donor PBDB‐T to promote efficient charge transport in the blends. Their blends with PBDB‐T contribute optimal PCE of 12.17% and 11.92% in as‐cast OSCs, among the highest values for UFAs based as‐cast devices in the literature. Experimental and theoretical simulations systematically reveal the impact of manipulating the molecular framework of UFAs on their conformation, optoelectronic, and photovoltaic performance. The results indicate the matching π‐bridge units with molecular frameworks as an attractive approach to design UFAs for high‐performance as‐cast OSCs.
Tumor‐specific and photothermal‐augmented chemodynamic therapy by ferrocene‐carbon dot‐crosslinked nanoparticles
Authors: Sun Shan , Chen Qiao , Li Yike , Yu Yao , Li Zhongjun , Lin Hengwei 
Published: May 2022

AbstractExtensive research have been devoted to the exploration of multifunctional theranostic agents for cancer, but the poor tumor specificity and unsatisfactory treatment efficacy are some of the critical obstacles for their clinical translations. Herein, ferrocene‐carbon dot‐crosslinked nanoparticles (Fc‐CD NPs) were designed and fabricated for achieving highly specific and photothermal‐augmented chemodynamic therapy (CDT). The Fc‐CD NPs were found not only to inherit the immanent fluorescence, photoacoustic, and photothermal properties of carbon dots (CDs), but also be endowed with CDT that could occur selectively in tumor microenvironment (TME) due to the presence of Fc for triggering Fenton reaction. Moreover, the enlarged particle size of Fc‐CD NPs facilitated their effective accumulation at tumor sites, thus realizing great improvement for antitumor treatment outcomes. Once docking at tumor and being exposed to 660 nm laser irradiation, significantly amplified CDT effect of Fc‐CD NPs was observed due to heat‐accelerating generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). More interestingly, since the produced ROS could in turn alleviate the thermal‐resistance of photothermal therapy (PTT), the therapeutic efficiency of integrated PTT and CDT was synergized to the maximum extent. This study on the one hand provides a facile approach to fabricate CDs‐based multifunctional theranostic nanoplatform with enhanced tumor accumulation and specificity, on the other hand emphasizes the merits of synergizing mutually beneficial therapeutic modalities for more efficient cancer therapy.
3D Neural Network Composed of Neurospheroid and Bionanohybrid on Microelectrode Array to Realize the Spatial Input Signal Recognition in Neurospheroid
Authors: Yoon Jinho , Kim Hyun‐Woong , Shin Minkyu , Lim Joungpyo , Lee Ji‐Young , Lee Sang‐Nam , Choi Jeong‐Woo 
Published: May 2022

AbstractThere have been several studies for demonstration of 2D neural network using living cells or organic/inorganic molecules, but to date, there is no report of development of a 3D neural network in vitro. Based on developed bionanohybrid composed of protein, DNA, molybdenum disulfide nanoparticles, and peptides for controlling electrophysiological states of living cells, here, the in vitro 3D neural network composed of the bionanohybrid, 3D neurospheroid and the microelectrode array (MEA) is developed. After production of the 3D neurospheroid derived from human neural stem cells, the bionanohybrid developed on the MEA successfully semi‐penetrates the neurites of the 3D neurospheroid and forms the 3D neural network. The developed 3D neural network successfully exhibited the electrophysiological output signals of the 3D neurospheroid by transmitting the input signal applied by the bionanohybrid. Moreover, by using the selectively immobilized bionanohybrid on the MEA, the spatial input signal recognition in the neurospheroid of 3D neural network is realized for the first time. This newly developed in vitro 3D neural network provides a promising strategy to be applied in brain‐on‐a‐chip, brain disease‐related drug efficacy evaluation, bioelectronics, and bioelectronic medicine.
Recent Advances in Dual‐Atom Site Catalysts for Efficient Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide Electrocatalysis
Authors: An Qizheng , Jiang Jingjing , Cheng Weiren , Su Hui , Jiang Yong , Liu Qinghua 
Published: May 2022

AbstractAtomically dispersed metal catalysts have been widely used in electrocatalysis because of their outstanding catalytic activity and high atomic utilization efficiency. As an extension of single‐atom catalysts (SACs), dual‐atom catalysts (DACs) provide new insights for the development of atomic‐scale catalysts. Higher metal loading and more flexible active sites endow DACs with improved catalytic performance as well as optimized reaction mechanism model. In this review, DACs are firstly classified according to their configurations and metal sites. Subsequently, the synthetic strategies and characterization techniques of DACs are introduced. Furthermore, the applications of DACs are exemplified in various electrocatalytic reactions, including oxygen reduction reaction, oxygen evolution reaction and carbon dioxide reduction reaction. Finally, the prospects to be expected and challenges to be faced with are discussed.
Circular economy of waste in agrifood supply chain: A review
Authors: Ouro‐Salim Omar , Guarnieri Patrícia 
Published: May 2022

AbstractThrough a systematic literature review (SLR), this study aims to analyze the progress achieved in international literature regarding the circular economy (CE) of food waste. As a result, we realized that most of the authors considered had proposed different mathematical models, chemical and thermal treatment methods, statistical, and conceptual frameworks, besides that quantitative and qualitative studies to explain the processes related to the waste and CE in the agrifood sector. Furthermore, in business, management, and accounting, the CE of food waste focuses on added value and optimizing energy use rather than approaching the principles of reduction, reuse, and recycling. This study constitutes a first attempt at understanding the CE of food waste in business, management, and accounting fields of knowledge. This SLR can assist decision‐makers, managers, and governments to formulate policies and strategies to effectively implement CE in agrifood supply chains.
Sex‐dependent metal accumulation and immunoexpression of Hsp70 and Nrf2 in rats' brain following manganese exposure
Authors: Ijomone Omamuyovwi M. , Iroegbu Joy D. , Morcillo Patricia , Ayodele Akinyemi J. , Ijomone Olayemi K. , Bornhorst Julia , Schwerdtle Tanja , Aschner Michael 
Published: May 2022

AbstractManganese (Mn), although important for multiple cellular processes, has posed environmental health concerns due to its neurotoxic effects. In recent years, there have been extensive studies on the mechanism of Mn‐induced neuropathology, as well as the sex‐dependent vulnerability to its neurotoxic effects. Nonetheless, cellular mechanisms influenced by sex differences in susceptibility to Mn have yet to be adequately characterized. Since oxidative stress is a key mechanism of Mn neurotoxicity, here, we have probed Hsp70 and Nrf2 proteins to investigate the sex‐dependent changes following exposure to Mn. Male and female rats were administered intraperitoneal injections of MnCl2 (10 mg/kg and 25 mg/kg) 48 hourly for a total of eight injections (15 days). We evaluated changes in body weight, as well as Mn accumulation, Nrf2 and Hsp70 expression across four brain regions; striatum, cortex, hippocampus and cerebellum in both sexes. Our results showed sex‐specific changes in body‐weight, specifically in males but not in females. Additionally, we noted sex‐dependent accumulation of Mn in the brain, as well as in expression levels of Nrf2 and Hsp70 proteins. These findings revealed sex‐dependent susceptibility to Mn‐induced neurotoxicity corresponding to differential Mn accumulation, and expression of Hsp70 and Nrf2 across several brain regions.
Maternal perinatal exposure to bisphenol S induces an estrogenic like effect in glucose homeostasis in male offspring
Authors: Morimoto Sumiko , Solís‐Lemus Edgar , Jiménez‐Vivanco Jesica , Castellanos‐Ruiz Dafne , Díaz‐Díaz Eulises , Mendoza‐Rodríguez C. Adriana 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBisphenol S (BPS) has been introduced into the industry as a safer alternative to bisphenol A (BPA). However, the recent studies have reported a possible association between BPS and disturbed glucose homeostasis, indicating that it may be a risk factor for type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and gestational diabetes mellitus. Nevertheless, the role of BPS in glucose metabolism remains controversial. In this study, we investigated the glucose metabolism of male Wistar rats born from dams that were BPS‐exposed (groups: BPS‐L (0.05 mg/kg/day), BPS‐H (20 mg/kg/day)) during pregnancy and lactation. We observed that both BPS treated groups of animals presented a significant decrease in anogenital distance/weight1/3, as compared to control animals, although no alterations in testosterone levels were observed. Furthermore, the BPS‐L group presented a significant decrease in body weight from postnatal day (PND) 21 to adult stage. In addition, a significant increase in glucose tolerance, pancreatic β‐cell proliferation, the frequency of small islets, and the average β‐cell size at PND 36 was observed in this group. However, no changes in insulin serum levels and percentage of β‐cells were recorded. Furthermore, these changes were not preserved at the adult stage (PND 120). The results suggest that the administration of low doses of BPS during the perinatal period induced an estrogenic like effect, with males apparently becoming more female‐like in their responses to a glucose challenge.