bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliable multi‐modal medical image‐to‐image translation independent of pixel‐wise aligned data
Authors: Zhou Langrui , Li Guang
Published: August 2024

Background

The current mainstream multi‐modal medical image‐to‐image translation methods face a contradiction. Supervised methods with outstanding performance rely on pixel‐wise aligned training data to constrain the model optimization. However, obtaining pixel‐wise aligned multi‐modal medical image datasets is challenging. Unsupervised methods can be trained without paired data, but their reliability cannot be guaranteed. At present, there is no ideal multi‐modal medical image‐to‐image translation method that can generate reliable translation results without the need for pixel‐wise aligned data.

Purpose

This work aims to develop a novel medical image‐to‐image translation model that is independent of pixel‐wise aligned data (MITIA), enabling reliable multi‐modal medical image‐to‐image translation under the condition of misaligned training data.

Methods

The proposed MITIA model utilizes a prior extraction network composed of a multi‐modal medical image registration module and a multi‐modal misalignment error detection module to extract pixel‐level prior information from training data with misalignment errors to the largest extent. The extracted prior information is then used to construct a regularization term to constrain the optimization of the unsupervised cycle‐consistent Generative Adversarial Network model, restricting its solution space and thereby improving the performance and reliability of the generator. We trained the MITIA model using six datasets containing different misalignment errors and two well‐aligned datasets. Subsequently, we conducted quantitative analysis using peak signal‐to‐noise ratio and structural similarity as metrics. Moreover, we compared the proposed method with six other state‐of‐the‐art image‐to‐image translation methods.

Results

The results of both quantitative analysis and qualitative visual inspection indicate that MITIA achieves superior performance compared to the competing state‐of‐the‐art methods, both on misaligned data and aligned data. Furthermore, MITIA shows more stability in the presence of misalignment errors in the training data, regardless of their severity or type.

Conclusions

The proposed method achieves outstanding performance in multi‐modal medical image‐to‐image translation tasks without aligned training data. Due to the difficulty in obtaining pixel‐wise aligned data for medical image translation tasks, MITIA is expected to generate significant application value in this scenario compared to existing methods.
Drug Survival on First Biologic Therapy Among Late‐Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Compared to Early‐Onset Patients: A Population‐Based Cohort Study
Authors: Jeries Helana , Daood Rula , Hijazi Basem , Golan‐Cohen Avivit , Green Ilan , Merzon Eugene , Naffaa Mohammad E. , Hassan Fadi
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients can be divided according to the age of disease onset and classified as late‐onset RA ≥ 60 years old or early‐onset RA < 60 years old. Current treatment guidelines do not stipulate any preference regarding the biologic that should be used first in the late‐onset group. This study aims to compare the drug survival times on first biological treatment between late and early‐onset RA patients.

Methods

This is a population based cohort study using the medical records of Leumit healthcare services. We included all eligible RA patients between 2000 and 2017. RA patients were divided into late‐ and early‐onset RA groups and compared according to drug survival time on the first biological therapy.

Results

The final cohort included 3814 RA patients, 2807 (73.6%) of whom had early‐onset RA. Overall, biologic disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) were used more often among early‐onset compared to late‐onset patients (16.9% vs. 7.8%, p < 0.001). Among early‐onset patients, etanercept was associated with the longest drug survival time on the first biologic, and adalimumab and infliximab were associated with the longest drug survival times among late‐onset patients. No differences were observed in drug survival times between late and early‐onset patients on the first bDMARD, except for abatacept and golimumab with longer drug survival time among early‐onset patients.

Conclusion

Late‐onset RA patients were treated with biologics to a lesser extent than early‐onset patients, but no differences were observed in drug survival times at the first bDMARD between the two groups.
Implementing early feeding after liver transplant using implementation frameworks: A multimethod study
Authors: Takefala Tahnie G. , Mayr Hannah L. , Doola Raeesa , Johnston Heidi E. , Hodgkinson Peter J. , Andelkovic Melita , Macdonald Graeme A. , Hickman Ingrid J.
Published: August 2024

Background

Evidence‐based guidelines (EBGs) in the nutrition management of advanced liver disease and enhanced recovery after surgery recommendations state that normal diet should recommence 12–24 h following liver transplantation. This study aimed to compare postoperative nutrition practices to guideline recommendations, explore clinician perceptions regarding feeding after transplant surgery, and implement and evaluate strategies to improve postoperative nutrition practices.

Methods

A pre‐post multimethod implementation study was undertaken, guided by the knowledge‐to‐action framework. A retrospective chart audit of postoperative dietary practice and semistructured interviews with clinicians were undertaken. Implementation strategies were informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research–Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change matching tool and then evaluated.

Results

An evidence‐practice gap was identified, with the median day to initiation of nutrition (free‐fluid or full diet) on postoperative day (POD) 2 and only 25% of patients aligning with the EBGs. Clinician interviews identified belief in the importance of nutrition, with variation in surgical practice in relation to early nutrition, competing clinical priorities, and vulnerabilities in communication contributing to delays in returning to feeding. An endorsed postoperative nutrition protocol was implemented along with a suite of theory‐ and stakeholder‐informed intervention strategies. Following implementation, the median time to initiate nutrition reduced to POD1 and alignment with EBGs improved to 60%.

Conclusion

This study used implementation frameworks and strategies to understand, implement, and improve early feeding practices in line with EBGs after liver transplant. Ongoing sustainability of practice change as well as the impact on clinical outcomes have yet to be determined.
Prevention of complications for hospitalized patients receiving parenteral nutrition: A narrative review
Authors: Al‐Zubeidi Dina , Davis Mary Beth , Rahhal Riad
Published: August 2024

Hospitalized patients may benefit from parenteral nutrition to address their compromised nutrition status attributed to limited oral/enteral intake and increased nutrient/energy requirement during acute illness. Parenteral nutrition, however, can be associated with many complications that can negatively impact patient outcomes. In this review, we focus on potential metabolic and catheter‐related complications associated with parenteral nutrition use. We report on potential risk factors for such complications and highlight strategies for prevention and early recognition. To optimize outcomes, key findings include the creation and implementation of evidence‐based protocols with proven efficacy. For each hospital unit delivering parenteral nutrition to patients, tracking compliance with established protocols and patient outcomes is crucial for ongoing improvement through identification of gaps, proper reeducation and training, and ongoing refinement of care protocols. Establishment of specialized inpatient nutrition support teams should be considered.
Synoptic operative reports for pediatric surgical oncology
Authors: Baertschiger Reto M. , Polites Stephanie , Fusco Joseph C. , Roach Jonathan P. , Christison‐Lagay Emily , Malek Marcus , Gow Kenneth W.
Published: August 2024

Synoptic operative notes for pediatric surgical oncology provide standardized and structured documentation of surgical procedures performed on pediatric patients with cancer. These reports capture essential details such as preoperative diagnosis, intraoperative findings, surgical technique, and tumor characteristics in a concise and uniform format. By promoting consistency, accuracy, and completeness in reporting, synoptic operative notes facilitate effective communication among multidisciplinary healthcare teams, enhance quality assurance efforts, and streamline data extraction for research purposes. The integration of synoptic reporting within electronic medical record systems further enhances accessibility and usability, ensuring efficient documentation practices and improved patient care outcomes in pediatric surgical oncology.
Venetoclax for pediatric patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Gibson Amber , Dickson Samantha , McCall David , Garcia Miriam , Connors Jeremy , He Jiasen , Roth Michael , Nunez Cesar , Cuglievan Branko
Published: August 2024

This retrospective study at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center evaluated frontline venetoclax combination therapy in 11 pediatric/adolescent patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Despite the small sample size and retrospective nature, the treatment demonstrated safety and potential efficacy, with most patients achieving early complete remission. Adverse events were consistent with other AML therapies, and no discontinuations due to toxicity occurred. While acknowledging study limitations, including selection bias and diverse concurrent therapies, this research underscores the promising role of venetoclax in pediatric AML. Further investigation is crucial to validate its long‐term efficacy in this population.
High‐Resolution Haplotyping of the PAH Gene Enables Early Gestation Noninvasive Prenatal Diagnosis of Phenylketonuria and Evolution Analysis of Recurrent Pathogenic Variations
Authors: Zhu Jingqi , Zhao Zhenhua , Li Shaojun , Zhou Yifan , Kong Lingrong , Fu Xinyu , Li Huanyun , Feng Jun , Tang Weiqin , Wu Di , Kong Xiangdong
Published: August 2024

Background

The clinical performance of RHDO‐based NIPD for PKU during early gestation remains under‐evaluated. Furthermore, studies focused on SNP loci obtained by next‐generation sequencing to analyze the genetic evolution of pathogenic variations in PKU is limited.

Methods

Maternal peripheral blood, along with proband and paternal samples, was collected between 7 and 12 weeks of gestation. The PAH gene and surrounding high heterozygosity SNPs were targeted for enrichment and sequencing. Fetal genotypes were inferred using RHDO‐based NIPD. High‐resolution PAH haplotypes were used for the analysis of two common pathogenic variants in the Chinese population: c.728G>A and c.1238G>C.

Results

Sixty one PKU families participated with an average fetal fraction of 6.08%. The median gestational age was 8+6 weeks. RHDO‐based NIPD successfully identified fetal genotypes in 59 cases (96.72%, 59/62). Two cases failed because of insufficient informative SNPs. In addition, a recombination event was assessed in one fetus of 59 cases. Six, and three haplotypes were identified for c.728G>A(p.Arg243Gln) and c.1238G>C(p.Arg413Pro), respectively. Hap_3 and hap_8 were identified as the ancestral haplotypes for these pathogenic variants, with other haplotypes arising from mutations or recombination based on these ancestral haplotypes.

Conclusions

This study validates the feasibility of an RHDO‐based assay for NIPD of PKU in early pregnancy and introduces its application in the demonstration of founder effects in recurrent pathogenic variations, offering new insights into the evolutionary analysis of PAH variations.
Composite materials based on slide‐ring polyrotaxane structures for optoelectronics
Authors: Resmerita Ana‐Maria , Asandulesa Mihai , Farcas Aurica
Published: August 2024

Composite material based on polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypyrrole (PPy) polyrotaxanes both encapsulated into α‐cyclodextrins (α‐CDs) macrocycle molecules was synthesized by cross‐linking reaction. The effect of PPy‐αCD polyrotaxane incorporation into the PEG‐αCD polyrotaxane matrix, on the structural, morphological, thermal, and dielectric properties was evaluated and compared to the reference material. Scanning electron microscopy spectroscopy indicates different surface morphologies of this material in comparison to the reference one. In addition, the contact angle measurements and surface free energy attest a hydrophilic surface, while the reference material exhibits a hydrophobic surface. More than that, the presence of the PPy‐αCD cross‐linked into the matrix has a beneficial effect on the thermal properties. The composite material shows an enhanced dielectric constant value of 31,365 at 10 Hz frequency compared to the 38.2 of the reference material, and higher dielectric loss (62,398 vs. 80 at 10 Hz, respectively). The conductivity measurements at 10 Hz frequency indicated for the reference material the value 4.5 × 10−11, while for the material with PPy‐αCD polyrotaxane, the conductivity is three orders of magnitude higher (3.5 × 10−8) confirming the improvements of the electrical properties.
Development of air therapy as a novel therapeutic branch in the field of rehabilitation
Authors: Mohamed Ayman A.
Published: August 2024

Background and Purpose

Developing technology in the field of rehabilitation is vital to accelerate recovery and decrease the side effects of current modalities. Rehabilitation is a challenging science in which the main challenge is not just treating the patient but also to shorten the rehabilitation time and avoid harmful effects. Thus, this review demonstrates the possible design and effects of air therapy as a novel treatment branch besides hydrotherapy, electrotherapy, and manual therapy in the field of rehabilitation.

Methods

The search was conducted over clinical trials, literature reviews, and systematic reviews on the possible effects of treatments that may have similar effects to the newly developed air therapy. This search was conducted in the Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCO, and Medline databases.

Results

Air therapy could be used to improve the function of mechanoreceptors, improve circulation and microcirculation, decrease pain, the release of trigger points, regain the elasticity of soft tissues, treat acute and chronic inflammations, decrease muscle cramps and spasticity, strengthen muscle, and decrease muscle fatigue and Decreasing muscle fatigue and delayed muscle soreness.

Conclusion

Air therapy is a novel treatment modality that can be used effectively in the field of rehabilitation. Air therapy could be a valuable and safe treatment in rehabilitation.
Oral secretions from striped stem borer (Chilo suppressalis) induce defenses in rice
Authors: Yu Shan , Gong Lei , Han Yang‐Chun , Yang Lei , Li Jing , Hoffmann Ary A. , Luo Guang‐Hua , Yuan Guo‐Rui , Fang Ji‐Chao , Ji Rui
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

The striped stem borer (SSB, Chilo suppressalis) is one of the most destructive insect pests on rice. As a chewing insect, SSB larval feeding causes a dramatic increase in rice defense responses. However, the effects of oral secretions (OSs) during SSB feeding on rice defense remain largely unexplored.

RESULTS

In this study, based on transcriptome analysis results, treatment with SSB OSs regulated the expression of genes involved in the plant defense‐related pathways of calcium, mitogen‐activated protein kinases, reactive oxygen species, jasmonic acid (JA), herbivore‐induced plant volatiles (HIPVs), and protease inhibitors. Unsurprisingly, treatment with SSB OSs elicited the accumulation of JA and JA‐isoleucine in rice. The defense mechanisms activated by the cascade not only induced the expression of trypsin inhibitors, inhibiting the normal growth of SSB larvae but also induced HIPVs emission, rendering rice attractive to a common larval parasitoid. High‐throughput proteome sequencing of SSB OSs led to 534 proteins being identified and 343 proteins with two or more unique peptides being detected.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrates that SSB OSs trigger both direct and indirect defense mechanisms in rice, akin to the effects of SSB feeding. It identifies specific proteins in SSB OSs that may influence the interactions between SSB and rice during feeding, providing valuable insights for effectors research. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Dispersive Spectra of Fröhlich Phonon Modes in Wurtzite Nitride Nanoholes with Circular and Square Cross Sections
Authors: Zhang Li , Wang Guanghui , Liu Xianli , Wang Qi
Published: August 2024

Semiconductor nanoholes have garnered significant interest due to their unique nanotopological structures, which can result in distinct physicochemical characteristics. This study delves into the properties of crystal vibrations in nanohole structures. The analytic Fröhlich phonon state and dispersion relationship in wurtzite nanoholes, with circular and square cross sections (CS), are derived using the macroscopic dielectric continuum model. It is found that two types of phonon modes, surface optical (SO) and half‐space (HS) modes, coexist in wurtzite nitride nanohole structures. These phonon modes and their dispersive behaviors in nanoholes significantly differ from those in nanowires due to the different nanotopological structures. Furthermore, the Fröhlich electron–phonon interaction Hamiltonians for SO and HS phonon modes in nanoholes are obtained based on a field quantization scheme. Numerical calculations on wurtzite AlN nanoholes reveal that the shape of the CS has a remarkable influence on the dispersive spectra of SO and HS phonon modes. Additionally, it is found that the dielectric medium significantly affects the dispersive features of SO modes, while its influence on the dispersive behavior of HS modes is negligible. The profound physical mechanisms behind these observations are deeply analyzed.
Evaluation of near‐surface and boundary‐layer meteorological conditions that support cold‐fog formation using Cold Fog Amongst Complex Terrain field campaign observations
Authors: Beal Rebecca Lynn , Pu Zhaoxia , Pardyjak Eric , Hoch Sebastian , Gultepe Ismail
Published: August 2024

Cold fog refers to a type of fog that forms when the temperature is below 0°C. It can be composed of liquid, ice, and mixed‐phase fog particles. Cold fog happens frequently over mountainous terrain in the cold season, but it is difficult to predict. Using observations from the Cold Fog Amongst Complex Terrain (CFACT) field campaign conducted in Heber Valley, Utah, in the western United States during January and February of 2022, this study investigates the meteorological conditions in the surface and boundary layers that support the formation of wintertime ephemeral cold fog in a local area of small‐scale mountain valleys. It is found that fog formation is susceptible to subtleties in forcing conditions and is supported by several factors: (1) established high pressure over the Great Basin with associated local clear skies, calm winds, and a stable boundary layer; (2) near‐surface inversion with saturation near the surface and strong moisture gradient in the boundary layer; (3) warm (above‐freezing) daytime air temperature with a large diurnal range, accompanied with warm soil temperatures during the daytime; (4) a period of increased turbulence kinetic energy (above 0.5 m2·s−2), followed by calm conditions throughout the fog's duration; and (5) supersaturation with respect to ice. Then, the field observations and identified supporting factors for fog formation were utilized to evaluate high‐resolution (˜400 m horizontal grid spacing) Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model simulations. Results show that the WRF model accurately simulates the mesoscale conditions facilitating cold‐fog formation but misses some critical surface and atmospheric boundary conditions. The overall results from this paper indicate that these identified factors that support fog formation are vital to accurately forecasting cold‐fog events. At the same time, they are also critical fields for the NWP model validation.
Computational Study of Noncovalent Interactions on Addition of Small Molecule Units With Benzenoid Aromatic Rings
Authors: Sharma Rohan , Kashyap Chayanika , Baruah Drishti , Baruah Ilakshi , Sharma Pankaz K.
Published: August 2024

Experimental and theoretical studies over the recent years have shown that noncovalent interactions play a crucial role in diverse chemical and biological processes. Noncovalent interactions have been recognized as significantly contributing towards stabilizing various supramolecular species. We have attempted to interpret computationally the nature of various noncovalent interactions between the aromatic surfaces of 6‐phenyl‐1,3,5‐triazine and biphenyl with polar as well as non‐polar molecules such as H2O, HCl, HF, CO2, and so forth and adding the inter‐aromatic rings π‐stacking, using the r2SCAN‐3c/DEF2‐mTZVPP model chemistry. Energy decomposition analysis with the SAPT method shows that the electrostatics and dispersion components play crucial roles in stabilizing these complexes whereas induction and polarization play minor roles.
Particulate organic carbon and nitrogen and soil‐test biological activity under grazed pastures and conservation land uses
Authors: Franzluebbers Alan J.
Published: August 2024

Soil organic matter is assumed to accumulate with conservation management. On‐farm surveys using paired‐farm and chronosequence approaches could validate assumptions, as well as provide a diversity of soils and management conditions to assess organic matter fractions. The objective of this study was to assess how land use and pasture management affected the gradient of organic matter fractions from active to resistant. Particulate and non‐particulate (also called mineral‐associated) organic C and N fractions were isolated and soil‐test biological activity was measured from 304 profiles at 0‐ to 10‐, 10‐ to 30‐, and 30‐ to 60‐cm depths on 31 private farms in Virginia. Root‐zone enrichment contents of these soil properties were calculated following subtraction of a baseline from total stocks of each soil profile. Land use was a key factor affecting root‐zone enrichment (0‐ to 30‐cm depth) of particulate organic C (Mg C ha−1) (p ≤ 0.05): conventional‐till cropland (6.3) = no‐till cropland (9.2) < grassland (14.2) < woodland (16.7). Root‐zone enrichments of soil C and N fractions increased with pasture age to a plateau achieved by 25 years and were optimized at cattle stocking rate of 1.0 ± 0.2 Mg live weight ha−1. Feeding hay increased root‐zone enrichment of soil‐test biological activity (49 kg CO2‐C 3 day−1 [Mg hay]−1). Although non‐particulate organic C and N dominated, accumulation with time and steady‐state concentration of particulate fractions were vital steps toward greater soil organic matter under conservation management. Root‐zone enrichment calculations from on‐farm sampling were helpful in distinguishing true effects of management from pedogenesis on soil organic matter formation.
Easy Processable Photomechanical Thin Film Involving a Photochromic Diarylethene and a Thermoplastic Elastomer in Supramolecular Interaction
Authors: Arroyo Ismael , Cedeño Rebeca , Nour Eddine Nour , Alcaraz Gilles , Pensec Sandrine , Bouteiller Laurent , Naït‐Abdelaziz Moussa , Barrau Sophie , Tahon Jean‐François , Fournier David , Fadel Alexandre , Takeshita Michinori , Buntinx Guy , Aloïse Stéphane
Published: August 2024

A novel supramolecular photoactuator in the form of a thin film of centimetric size has been developed as an alternative to traditional liquid crystal elastomers (LCE) involving azobenzene (AZO) units or photochromic microcrystals. This thin film is produced through spin coating without the need for alignment or crosslinking. The photoactuator combines a photochromic dithienylethene (DTE) functionalized with ureidopyrimidinone (UPy) units, and a telechelic thermoplastic elastomer, also functionalized with UPy, allowing quadruple hydrogen bonding between the two components. Upon alternating ultraviolet (UV) and visible light exposure, the film exhibits reversible bending and color changes, studied using displacement and absorption tracking setups. For the first time, the photomechanical effect (PME) is quantitatively correlated with photochromism, showing that DTE units drive the movement under both UV (photocyclization) and visible (photoreversion) light. In situ illumination techniques reveal that the PME arises from photoinduced strain within 160 nm UPy‐bonded DTE domains, which expand and contract by approximately 50% under UV and visible light, respectively. The semicrystalline nature of the elastomer and a robust supramolecular network connecting both components are critical in converting microscopic photostrain into macroscopic actuation.
Novel Discrete and Imprinted Fluoride‐Selective Sensors: Bridging the Gap from DMSO to Aqueous Samples
Authors: Quiñone Delfina , Romano Giammarco M. , Faccio Ricardo , Savastano Matteo , Bianchi Antonio , Bencini Andrea , Brovetto Margarita , Torres Julia , Veiga Nicolás
Published: August 2024

Fluoride in drinking water has beneficial or harmful health effects depending on its concentration. This highlights the need for new low‐cost and portable sensors capable of in situ monitoring of F− ions. Unfortunately, achieving high levels of water compatibility and fluoride specificity remains a challenge. Here, four new urea‐based discrete sensors are prepared and characterized. The sensors containing anthracenyl‐ (5) and 9H‐fluorenyl‐ (7) signaling units exhibit intense luminescent emissions in dimethyl sulfoxide, the former being particularly sensitive and selective to fluoride. In water, 5 displays a superior sensitivity (871 M−1) and a detection limit (8 µm) below international guidelines, albeit with cross‐sensitivity to H2PO4‾. To enhance the performance, 5 and 7 are embedded into a fluoride‐imprinted polymeric matrix to give solid‐state sensors (5P and 7P, respectively). 5P shows good sensitivity (360 M−1) and specificity in water. Besides, it has a low detection limit (35 µm) and a response linear range (118–6300 µm) encompassing the limit established by the Environmental Protection Agency (211 µm). Furthermore, 5P also displays good reusability and adequate recovery values in real‐sample testing (102 ± 2%), constituting the first example of a low‐cost anion‐imprinted polymeric probe tailored for the selective sensing of fluoride in aqueous samples.
Accelerating the Hydrogen Evolution Kinetics with a Pulsed Laser–Synthesized Platinum Nanocluster–Decorated Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Electrocatalyst for Alkaline Seawater Electrolysis
Authors: Maheskumar Velusamy , Min Ahreum , Kumar Anuj , Senthil Raja Arumugam , Moon Cheol Joo , Choi Myong Yong
Published: August 2024

Efficient and durable electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline seawater environments are essential for sustainable hydrogen production. Zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) is synthesized through pulsed laser ablation in liquid, followed by pyrolysis, producing N‐doped porous carbon (NC). NC matrix serves as a self‐template, enabling Pt nanocluster decoration (NC‐Pt) via pulsed laser irradiation in liquid. NC‐Pt exhibits a large surface area, porous structure, high conductivity, N‐rich carbon, abundant active sites, low Pt content, and a strong NC‐Pt interaction. These properties enhance efficient mass transport during the HER. Remarkably, the optimized NC‐Pt‐4 catalyst achieves low HER overpotentials of 52, 57, and 53 mV to attain 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline, alkaline seawater, and simulated seawater, surpassing commercial Pt/C catalysts. In a two‐electrode system with NC‐Pt‐4(−)ǀǀIrO2(+) as cathode and anode, it demonstrates excellent direct seawater electrolysis performance, with a low cell voltage of 1.63 mV to attain 10 mA cm−2 and remarkable stability. This study presents a rapid and efficient method for fabricating cost‐effective and highly effective electrocatalysts for hydrogen production in alkaline and alkaline seawater environments.
The Evolution of Microfluidic‐Based Drug‐Loading Techniques for Cells and Their Derivatives
Authors: Tong Siyu , Niu Jiaqi , Wang Zhitao , Jiao Yingao , Fu Yanfei , Li Dongxia , Pan Xinni , Sheng Nengquan , Yan Li , Min Peiru , Chen Di , Cui Shengsheng , Liu Yanlei , Lin Shujing
Published: August 2024

Conventional drug delivery techniques face challenges related to targeting and adverse reactions. Recent years have witnessed significant advancements in nanoparticle‐based drug carriers. Nevertheless, concerns persist regarding their safety and insufficient metabolism. Employing cells and their derivatives, such as cell membranes and extracellular vesicles (EVs), as drug carriers effectively addresses the challenges associated with nanoparticle carriers. However, an essential hurdle remains in efficiently loading drugs into these carriers. With the advancement of microfluidic technology and its advantages in precise manipulation at the micro‐ and nanoscales, as well as minimal sample loss, it has found extensive application in the loading of drugs using cells and their derivatives, thereby fostering the development of drug‐loading techniques. This paper outlines the characteristics and benefits of utilizing cells and their derivatives as drug carriers and provides an overview of current drug‐loading techniques, particularly those rooted in microfluidic technology. The significant potential for microfluidic technology in targeted disease therapy through drug delivery systems employing cells and their derivatives, is foreseen.
Carbon‐Coated MOF‐Derived Porous SnPS3 Core–Shell Structure as Superior Anode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yue Ming , Zhong Longsheng , Sheng Yanzhe , He Hongxiao , Xiao Yanhe , Cheng Baochang , Chen Wen , Lei Shuijin
Published: August 2024

Metal thiophosphites have recently emerged as a hot electrode material system for sodium‐ion batteries because of their large theoretical capacity. Nevertheless, the sluggish electrochemical reaction kinetics and drastic volume expansion induced by the low conductivity and inherent conversion‐alloying reaction mechanism, require urgent resolution. Herein, a distinctive porous core–shell structure, denoted as SnPS3@C, is controllably synthesized by synchronously phosphor‐sulfurizing resorcinol‐formaldehyde‐coated tin metal–organic framework cubes. Thanks to the 3D porous structure, the ion diffusion kinetics are accelerated. In addition, SnPS3@C features a tough protective carbon layer, which improves the electrochemical activity and reduces the polarization. As expected, the as‐prepared SnPS3@C electrode exhibits superior electrochemical performance compared to pure SnPS3, including excellent rate capability (1342.4 and 731.1 mAh g−1 at 0.1 and 4 A g−1, respectively), and impressive long‐term cycling stability (97.9% capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 1 A g−1). Moreover, the sodium storage mechanism is thoroughly studied by in‐situ and ex‐situ characterizations. This work offers an innovative approach to enhance the energy storage performance of metal thiophosphite materials through meticulous structural design, including the introduction of porous characteristics and core–shell structures.
Machine learning assisted prediction of the mechanical properties of carbon nanotube‐incorporated concrete
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Amjad Hassan , Khan Shayan , Ali Shehroze
Published: August 2024

The incorporation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in concrete can improve the physical, mechanical, and durability properties. However, the interaction of CNTs with concrete and their effect on the mechanical properties remains a challenging issue. Also, the determination of mechanical properties through experimental testing is time‐consuming, laborious, and uneconomical. This study focuses on the development of machine learning (ML) models for the prediction of the mechanical properties of concrete. A comprehensive data set of 758 CNT‐modified concrete specimens was established for the compressive strength (CS), split tensile strength (STS), flexural strength (FS), and modulus of elasticity (MOE) values from the experimental studies in the literature. Afterward, the predictive models were developed using multilinear regression (MLR), support vector machine (SVM), ensemble methods (EN), regression tree (RT), and Gaussian process regression (GPR). It was found that among ML models, the GPR model predicted the CS, STS, and FS at the highest efficiency with the coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.83, 0.78, and 0.93, respectively while the performance of the SVM model was superior for predicting MOE with an R2 value of 0.91. The mean absolute error (MAE) of the GPR model for CS, STS, FS, and MOE were 2.92, 0.26, 0.35, and 1.31, respectively which were also lesser than other models. The training time of different models demonstrated that the GPR model has also a lower training time (~3 s) as compared to other models which indicates it has a high accuracy‐to‐time cost ratio. Further, the most influential parameters on CS were age, cement, water–cement ratio, and carbon nanotubes. The one‐way partial dependence analysis showed a direct correlation for age and cement but an inverse correlation for the water–cement ratio and fine aggregate. The graphical user interface provides the implication of the developed models for practical applications.
Integrin αV Inhibition by GMI, a Ganoderma Microsporum Immunomodulatory Protein, Abolish Stemness and Migration in EGFR‐Mutated Lung Cancer Cells Resistant to Osimertinib
Authors: Kang Yu‐Ting , Chang Hui‐Yi , Hsieh Ya‐Chu , Chou Chia‐Hsuan , Hsin I‐Lun , Ko Jiunn‐Liang
Published: August 2024

Integrins, the receptors of the extracellular matrix, are critical in the proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells. GMI, a Ganoderma microsporum immunomodulatory protein, possesses anticancer and antivirus abilities. The object of this study is to investigate the role of GMI in the integrins signaling pathway in lung cancer cells that harbor the EGFR L858R/T790M double mutation and osimertinib‐resistance. Liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry and western blot assay were used to investigate the effect of GMI on inhibiting the protein expressions of integrins in H1975 cells. The migration ability and xenograft tumor growth of H1975 were suppressed by GMI. To elucidate the role of the integrin family in lung cancer resistant to osimertinib (AZD‐9291, Tagrisso), H1975 cells were used to establish the osimertinib‐resistant cells, named H1975/TR cells. The expressions of Integrin αV and stemness markers were much higher in H1975/TR cells than in H1975 cells. GMI suppressed cell viability, tumor spheroid growth, and the expressions of integrin αV and β1 in H1975/TR cells. Furthermore, GMI suppressed the expressions of stemness markers and formation of tumor spheres via blocking integrin αV signaling cascade. This is the first study to reveal the novel function of GMI in constraining cancer stem cells and migration by abolishing the integrin αV‐related signaling pathway in EGFR‐mutated and osimertinib‐resistant lung cancer cells.
Cultivating Cross‐Cultural Connections through Language Learning Circles in Early Childhood Programs
Authors: Hernandez Joy , Gupta Abha
Published: August 2024

Spanish is the second most common language among US children aged 5–17, with 26.8% speaking it at home. To foster cultural understanding and promote positive relationships, it's crucial to introduce young children to different languages and cultures. Preschool language education can cultivate respect and empathy, building more inclusive communities. Culturally responsive education equips children with skills to value diversity, creating a harmonious cultural climate. This article highlights the importance of learning another language (e.g., Spanish) and introduces Language Learning Circles (LCC) for preschoolers. Research indicates ages 3–6 are optimal for language acquisition, emphasizing the need for early exposure to enhance learning, and cultural appreciation.
A supersymmetric SYK model with a curious low energy behavior
Authors: Biggs Anna , Maldacena Juan , Narovlansky Vladimir
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We consider $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2, 4 supersymmetric SYK models that have a peculiar low energy behavior, with the entropy going like S = S0 + (constant)Ta, where a ≠ 1. The large N equations for these models are a generalization of equations that have been previously studied as an unjustified truncation of the planar diagrams describing the BFSS matrix quantum mechanics or other related matrix models. Here we reanalyze these equations in order to better understand the low energy physics of these models. We find that the scalar fields develop large expectation values which explore the low energy valleys in the potential. The low energy physics is dominated by quadratic fluctuations around these values. These models were previously conjectured to have a spin glass phase. We did not find any evidence for this phase by using the usual diagnostics, such as searching for replica symmetry breaking solutions.
Local connectivity of boundaries of tame Fatou components of meromorphic functions
Authors: Barański Krzysztof , Fagella Núria , Jarque Xavier , Karpińska Bogusława
Published: August 2024

We prove the local connectivity of the boundaries of invariant simply connected attracting basins for a class of transcendental meromorphic maps. The maps within this class need not be geometrically finite or in class

$${\mathcal {B}}$$

B

, and the boundaries of the basins (possibly unbounded) are allowed to contain an infinite number of post-singular values, as well as the essential singularity at infinity. A basic assumption is that the unbounded parts of the basins are contained in regions which we call ‘repelling petals at infinity’, where the map exhibits a kind of ‘parabolic’ behaviour. In particular, our results apply to a wide class of Newton’s methods for transcendental entire maps. As an application, we prove the local connectivity of the Julia set of Newton’s method for

$$\sin z$$

sin
z

, providing the first non-trivial example of a locally connected Julia set of a transcendental map outside class

$${\mathcal {B}}$$

B

, with an infinite number of unbounded Fatou components.
The effect of nightly use of 150 mg cannabidiol on daytime neurocognitive performance in primary insomnia: a randomized controlled pilot trial
Authors: Narayan Andrea J. , Hayley Amie C. , Rose Sarah , Di Natale Lauren , Downey Luke A.
Published: August 2024

Rationale

Cannabidiol (CBD) is increasingly used as a sleep aid for insomnia; yet neurocognitive and subjective state effects following daily therapeutic use are unclear.

Objectives

To measure the effect of daily CBD use on neurocognitive performance and daily subjective mood in a population with primary insomnia.

Methods

This study used a randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel design incorporating a single-blind placebo run-in week followed by a two-week double-blind dosing period, during which participants consumed 150 mg CBD (N = 15) or placebo (N = 15) sublingually 60-minutes daily before bed. Attention, executive function, reasoning, information processing, working and episodic memory were assessed using the CogPro system at the beginning of the placebo run-in, after 1-week and 2-weeks of dosing. Subjective states using visual analogue scales and side effects were recorded daily.

Results

Cognitive performance was unaffected by nightly CBD supplementation (all p > 0.05). From baseline to trial conclusion, those receiving CBD reported greater experience of calmness, clear-headedness, coordination and were more likely to report side-effects of dry mouth relative to placebo (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Relative to placebo, daytime cognitive functioning following nightly supplementation as a therapeutic aid for primary insomnia was preserved under trial conditions. Results suggested an overall favourable safety profile, with larger controlled trials and thorough analyses of varying insomnia phenotypes necessary to corroborate these findings.
Model-informed dose optimization of mycophenolic acid in pediatric kidney transplant patients
Authors: Heida Astrid , Jager Nynke G. L. , Aarnoutse Rob E. , de Winter Brenda C. M. , de Jong Huib , Keizer Ron J. , Cornelissen Elisabeth A. M. , ter Heine Rob
Published: August 2024

Purpose

We aimed to develop and evaluate a population PK model of mycophenolic acid (MPA) in pediatric kidney transplant patients to aid MPA dose optimization.

Methods

Data were collected from pediatric kidney transplant recipients from a Dutch academic hospital (Radboudumc, the Netherlands). Pharmacokinetic model-building and model-validation analyses were performed using NONMEM. Subsequently, we externally evaluated the final model using data from another academic hospital. The final model was used to develop an optimized dosing regimen.

Results

Thirty pediatric patients were included of whom 266 measured MPA plasma concentrations, including 20 full pharmacokinetic (PK) curves and 24 limited sampling curves, were available. A two-compartment model with a transition compartment for Erlang-type absorption best described the data. The final population PK parameter estimates were Ktr (1.48 h−1; 95% CI, 1.15–1.84), CL/F (16.0 L h−1; 95% CI, 10.3–20.4), Vc/F (24.9 L; 95% CI, 93.0–6.71E25), Vp/F (1590 L; 95% CI, 651–2994), and Q/F (36.2 L h−1; 95% CI, 9.63–74.7). The performance of the PK model in the external population was adequate. An optimized initial dose scheme based on bodyweight was developed. With the licensed initial dose, 35% of patients were predicted to achieve the target AUC, compared to 42% using the optimized scheme.

Conclusion

We have successfully developed a pharmacokinetic model for MPA in pediatric renal transplant patients. The optimized dosing regimen is expected to result in better target attainment early in treatment. It can be used in combination with model-informed follow-up dosing to further individualize the dose when PK samples become available.
Insights into the transglucosylation activity of α-glucosidase from Schwanniomyces occidentalis
Authors: Merdzo Zoran , Narmontaite Egle , Gonzalez-Alfonso Jose L. , Poveda Ana , Jimenez-Barbero Jesus , Plou Francisco J. , Fernández-Lobato María
Published: August 2024

The α-glucosidase from Schwanniomyces occidentalis (GAM1p) was expressed in Komagataella phaffii to about 70 mg/L, and its transferase activity studied in detail. Several isomaltooligosaccharides (IMOS) were formed using 200 g/L maltose. The major production of IMOS (81.3 g/L) was obtained when 98% maltose was hydrolysed, of which 34.8 g/L corresponded to isomaltose, 26.9 g/L to isomaltotriose, and 19.6 g/L to panose. The addition of glucose shifted the IMOS synthesis towards products containing exclusively α(1 → 6)-linkages, increasing the production of isomaltose and isomaltotriose about 2–4 fold, enabling the formation of isomaltotetraose, and inhibiting that of panose to about 12 times. In addition, the potential of this enzyme to glycosylate 12 possible hydroxylated acceptors, including eight sugars and four phenolic compounds, was evaluated. Among them, only sucrose, xylose, and piceid (a monoglucosylated derivative of resveratrol) were glucosylated, and the main synthesised products were purified and characterised by MS and NMR. Theanderose, α(1 → 4)-D-glucosyl-xylose, and a mixture of piceid mono- and diglucoside were obtained with sucrose, xylose, and piceid as acceptors, respectively. Maximum production of theanderose reached 81.7 g/L and that of the glucosyl-xylose 26.5 g/L, whereas 3.4 g/L and only 1 g/L were produced of the piceid mono- and diglucoside respectively.

Key points

• Overexpression of a yeast α-glucosidase producing novel molecules.

• Yeast enzyme producing the heterooligosaccharides theanderose and glucosyl-xylose.

• Glycosylation of the polyphenol piceid by a yeast α-glucosidase.
An accelerated PETALUTE MRI sequence for in vivo quantification of sodium content in human articular cartilage at 3T
Authors: Villarreal Cameron X. , Shen Xin , Alhulail Ahmad A. , Buffo Nicholas M. , Zhou Xiaopeng , Pogue Evan , Özen Ali Caglar , Chiew Mark , Sawiak Stephen , Emir Uzay , Chan Deva D.
Published: August 2024

Objective

In this work, we evaluate the sodium magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) capabilities of a three-dimensional (3D) dual-echo ultrashort echo time (UTE) sequence with a novel rosette petal trajectory (PETALUTE), in comparison to the 3D density-adapted (DA) radial spokes UTE sequence in human articular cartilage in the knee.

Materials and methods

We scanned five healthy subjects using a 3D dual-echo PETALUTE acquisition and two comparable implementations of 3D DA-radial spokes acquisitions, one matching the number of k-space projections (Radial – Matched Spokes) and the other matching the total number of samples (Radial – Matched Samples) acquired in k-space.

Results

The PETALUTE acquisition enabled equivalent sodium quantification in articular cartilage volumes of interest (168.8 ± 29.9 mM, mean ± standard deviation) to those derived from the 3D radial acquisitions (171.62 ± 28.7 mM and 149.8 ± 22.2 mM, respectively). We achieved a 41% shorter scan time of 2:06 for 3D PETALUTE, compared to 3:36 for 3D radial acquisitions. We also evaluated the feasibility of further acceleration of the PETALUTE sequence through retrospective compressed sensing with 2 × and 4 × acceleration of the first echo and showed structural similarity of 0.89 ± 0.03 and 0.87 ± 0.03 when compared to non-retrospectively accelerated reconstruction.

Conclusion

We demonstrate improved scan time with equivalent performance using a 3D dual-echo PETALUTE sequence compared to the 3D DA-radial sequence for sodium MRI of articular cartilage.
Effects of crop forcing and water availability on yield and biomass partitioning in Tempranillo vines
Authors: Oliver-Manera Jordi , García-Tejera Omar , Mata Mercè , Girona Joan
Published: August 2024

Much recent grapevine research has focused on management techniques that allow grape harvesting under cooler conditions. Crop forcing, a summer pruning technique that ‘forces’ the vine to start a new cycle, can delay the harvest date by several weeks. However, information on how crop forcing affects root biomass production is currently limited. A two-year trial was conducted using potted vines to examine how crop forcing, and water availability might influence biomass partitioning. Six irrigation treatments were applied to forced (F) vines: deficit irrigation before forcing (F-PreF); deficit irrigation from veraison to harvest (F-V); a combination of these two treatments (F-PreF-V); deficit irrigation from veraison to harvest with no irrigation after harvest (F-V-PH); deficit irrigation throughout the growing season (F-DI); and irrigation at 100% of crop evapotranspiration (F-FI). The results were compared with unforced (UF) treatments: fully irrigated (UF-FI) and deficit irrigation throughout the growing season (UF-DI). The F-FI treatment reduced water use by 34% compared to the UF-FI treatment. Although the F treatments resulted in a significant yield reduction (85%), they increased the allocation of biomass to vegetative organs, and the crop forcing technique did not negatively affect root biomass production. Both UF-DI and F-DI treatments reduced root production compared to their respective FI treatments (UF-FI and F-FI). Furthermore, new root biomass was positively correlated with vine water use and total vine photosynthetic capacity when only F treatments were analysed.