bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Germin-like Protein 9-3, a Potential Allergen from a Rice Variety derived from Radiation-Mutation Breeding: An In Silico Study
Authors:   Atomic Research Division, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1101 Philippines | Research and Development Management Office, Technological Institute of the Philippines, Quezon City, 1100 Philippines, Deocaris Custer C. , Alinsug Malona A. ,   Atomic Research Division, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1100 Philippines | School of Graduate Studies, Mindanao State University – General Santos, General Santos City, 9500 Philippines, Nacua Alma E. ,   College of Arts and Science, Universidad de Manila, Ermita, Manila 1000 Philippines, Mojica Elmer-Rico E. ,   Department of Chemistry and Physical Sciences, Pace University, New York, 10029 United States
Published: September 2023

New varieties of crops with a history of safe and widespread use derived from radiation-mutation breeding are generally regarded to be unlikely to produce food safety concerns compared with genetically modified (GM) crops. However, more recent molecular analysis revealed that there might be a greater likelihood that the former may bring about more unintended effects than genetic modification by foreign gene introduction. Thus, in this paper, an allergenicity prediction analysis was carried out on the microarray data of a stable rice mutant derived from γ irradiation-mutation breeding. For the first time, it was revealed that germin-like protein (GLP) 9-3, the transcript with the most significant fold increase in expression in a transcriptome data analyzed, may be a potential allergen in radiation-mutant rice. An immunoinformatic analysis of GLP 9-3 disclosed several linear and conformational (discontinuous) B-cell epitopes and MHCII-binders. These epitopes were located primarily on the random coil and surface-exposed regions based on inspection of the protein’s secondary structures. Additionally, the GLP 9-3 epitopes were predicted to be reactive in more than 50% of the population in top rice-producing and -consuming countries based on human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotypes. Since this is the first report on the up-regulation of GLP 9-3 allergen in mutant rice, it is recommended to investigate this molecule for further biochemical and clinical analyses.
Radiation Sensitivity of Surface Mycoflora from Fresh Strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa Duch. var. Sweet Charlie) from La Trinidad, Benguet, Philippines
Authors:   Biomedical Research Section, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1101 Philippines, Diano Gilberto T. , Cobar Ma. Lucia C. ,   Biomedical Research Section, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1101 Philippines, Abrera Gina B. ,   Biomedical Research Section, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1101 Philippines, Tolentino Mitos M. ,   Biomedical Research Section, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1101 Philippines, Montefalcon Djowel Recto V. ,   Biomedical Research Section, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1101 Philippines, Asaad Celia O. ,   Biomedical Research Section, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1101 Philippines, Deocaris Chester C. ,   College of Science, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Sta. Mesa, Manila 1016 Philippines, Alvarez Lourdes V. ,   College of Science, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Sta. Mesa, Manila 1016 Philippines, Deocaris Custer C. ,   Biomedical Research Section, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1101 Philippines
Published: September 2023

Fungi cause postharvest diseases in a wide variety of crops around the world. Without proper identification of the prevalent fungal pathogens in crops, the efficiency of postharvest treatment is not always assured. Irradiation, a non-chemical approach, has been explored as an alternative treatment to control plant fungal pathogens. However, relevant studies on the radiation sensitivity of foodborne fungal pathogens in fresh produce and other relevant biological responses to radiation are quite limited, especially in the Philippine setting. In this study, surface fungal pathogens were isolated from fresh strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa Duch. var. Sweet Charlie) from La Trinidad, Benguet, Philippines and identified through molecular techniques. Radiation responses of fungal pathogens such as in vitro radiosensitivity based on D10 value and physio-morphological changes were determined. Molecular identification and evolutionary analysis revealed the presence of two fungal pathogens, namely Mucor circinelloides and Mucor irregularis. Gamma radiation effectively reduced the fungal population with D10 values of 0.6 and 1.4 kGy for M. irregularis and M. circinelloides, respectively, with complete growth inhibition at 3-5 kGy. Disruptions of sporangium and sporangiophores were also observed for both isolates at 1-2 kGy. The result of this study is expected to provide new data on the possible use of gamma radiation as hurdle technology for fresh fruits in the country.
Radiological Characterization of the Philippine Research Reactor-1 Legacy Neutron Sources via Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors:   Nuclear Reactor Operations Section, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1100 Philippines, Palangao Marinell B. , Asuncion-Astronomo Alvie ,   Nuclear Reactor Operations Section, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1100 Philippines, Tare Jeffrey D. ,   Nuclear Reactor Operations Section, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1100 Philippines | Science Education Institute, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Taguig City, 1631 Philippines, Dela Cruz Rafael Miguel M. ,   Nuclear Reactor Operations Section, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1100 Philippines, Olivares Ryan U. ,   Nuclear Reactor Operations Section, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), Quezon City, 1100 Philippines
Published: September 2023

Three legacy neutron sources (LNS), one 239PuBe and two 252Cf, are currently stored in the Philippine Research Reactor-1 (PRR-1) facility. These LNS have been kept in the storage tank for the irradiated fuel in the PRR-1 facility for three decades. However, there is limited information available on these sources. Thus, in this paper, the dose rates associated with the irradiated fuel and the three LNS were calculated using Monte Carlo simulations. The dose distribution for the three LNS in a 200-L concrete-filled stainless steel container was also calculated. Results showed that the storage tank has provided adequate shielding against neutrons from the three LNS and the neutron doses are negligible compared with the gamma dose from the irradiated fuel. Simulation results demonstrated that the container has given sufficient radiation shielding for handling LNS. The results of this study will serve as a basis for developing procedures for safe handling, storage, transfer, disposal and use of LNS upon commissioning of the PRR-1 Subcritical Assembly for Training, Education, and Research (SATER). Moreover, this offers a reference for updating and improving the radiation protection measures in the PRR-1 facility.
Characterization and Elemental Analysis of Particulate Matter in a Chemical Digestion Laboratory
Authors:   Department of Physical Sciences and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila City, 1000 Philippines, Labagnoy Yasmine Joy M. , Marquez Edanjarlo J. ,   Department of Physical Sciences and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila City, 1000 Philippines, Johnson Sarah C. ,   Department of Physical Sciences and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila City, 1000 Philippines, Gabo-Gianan Astrid Korina S. ,   Department of Physical Sciences and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila City, 1000 Philippines, Punzalan Jervee M. ,   Department of Physical Sciences and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila City, 1000 Philippines, Catalig Migel Antonio P. ,   Department of Physical Sciences and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila City, 1000 Philippines
Published: September 2023

Particulate matter (PM) may constitute health-threatening substances that are classified as carcinogens. In laboratories, common PM-emitting activities include chemical processing and electronic equipment utilization. Thus, workers run the risk of inhaling possible contaminants into their respiratory systems and affecting their overall health. In this study, PM10 and PM2.5 sampled from a chemical digestion laboratory were analyzed based on the size distribution and elemental composition. Samples were collected using a cascade impactor coupled with an air pump for 7 h per sampling day. Size distribution showed variation in the number of coarse particles, which was mainly attributable to activities that occurred during sampling. Elemental analysis by scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X-ray identified 23 elements. Some of the highest obtained concentrations belonged to the elements O, Si, Na and Ba with 41, 21, 10 and 10% in weight percentages, respectively. Possible PM sources included indoor dust, laboratory reagents, mechanical abrasions of buildings, crustal material and combustion emission. Furthermore, six elements from the identified PM constituents, namely Ba, Cl, Al, F, Mn and Cr were determined as inhalation contaminants based on toxicological reports from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
城市道路沥青混凝土路面病害与处理措施
Authors: 王 卫军
Published: September 2023

当前我国处于社会与经济快速发展的进程中，各地区政府对市政工程建设质量非常重视，其中关注度最高的是市政道路沥青混凝土路面质量。由于沥青混凝土路面具有噪声低、耐磨、扬尘小、施工期短、养护维修简便等优点，所以在城市道路中应用非常广泛，但在实际应用中，也会因为一些不良因素影响而导致沥青混凝土路面早期出现病害。以城市道路为背景，介绍沥青混凝土路面常见的病害及成因，希望能够为我国城市道路交通建设发展有所帮助。
Delving into Living Educational Theory (LET) research: A conversation with Jack Whitehead
Authors: Shaik-Abdullah Sarimah , Mat Noor Mohd Syafiq Aiman , Whitehead Jack
Published: September 2023

This article presents an overview of Living Educational Theory (LET) research and its potential to contribute to human flourishing. Through an exploration of key features and examples of this research approach, we demonstrate its unique contribution to the field of education. LET research places the individual at the centre of the research process, encouraging them to reflect on their own practices and develop ways to improve what they are doing in personally meaningful ways. This approach differs from conventional research methodologies that primarily focus on generating and analysing research data. In this article, we draw on insights from the work of Jack Whitehead, a leading LET researcher, to provide a comprehensive overview of the approach. Jack explores the concepts of valid explanation and video recording and their role in capturing and validating actions. Jack also discusses the relationship between LET and research theories and offers insights into how the research approach can contribute to human flourishing. Jack concludes with a discussion of the impact of published articles on others’ learning and how research impact can be evaluated. Overall, we provide an informative and valuable resource for researchers, educators, and practitioners seeking to understand and utilise LET research in their own context.
Exploring my dilemmas as an educator teaching English to speakers of other languages
Authors: Selvarajan Selvamalar
Published: September 2023

Teaching the English language to students from various programmes at tertiary level remains a challenging task. Most students perceive Communicative English, a compulsory course that needs to be passed to graduate, as a threat. This reflective paper aims to discuss three dilemmas that I have experienced with my English language students in this context. First, students expect that English language learning should be as fun as it was in primary school. However, the tertiary level demands that attention be paid to career development, which is somewhat discordant with this ideal. Second, students participate in class activities without engaging themselves in the learning process. Last but not least, motivating demotivated students to develop an interest in English language learning is not an easy task, especially for those students who do not enjoy learning English. The paper ultimately highlights the need for educators to constantly reflect on their practice and changing learning contexts.
The development of the sight word approach among pupils with Down syndrome
Authors: Othman Nor Naimmah , Mat Noor Mohd Syafiq Aiman , Ahmad Satirah
Published: September 2023

In this action research study, a sight word approach was developed for teaching English to pupils with Down syndrome in a Special Education Integrated Programme (PPKI) in Perak, Malaysia, during the pandemic. This approach integrated contextual picture sight words, sign language prompts, enrichment activities using word wheels, and a reward system through a word bank. The research methodology harnessed qualitative data collection techniques, and the acquired data was meticulously subjected to narrative analysis. This process yielded three distinct vignettes, each representing the unique learning journey of the three pupils involved in the study. The success of this approach hinged on repeated application, adequate pause intervals, and clear, succinct teacher instructions.
Abstrak
Kajian tindakan ini membangunkan pendekatan kata pandang untuk kaedah pengajaran bahasa Inggeris terhadap murid sindrom Down di  Program Pendidikan Khas Integrasi Pembelajaran (PPKI) di Perak, Malaysia semasa pandemik. Pendekatan ini menggabungkan kata pandang kad bergambar kontekstual, kata pandang bahasa isyarat, aktiviti penguatkuasaan dengan menggunakan roda perkataan, dan sistem ganjaran melalui bank perkataan. Metodologi kajian melibatkan teknik pengumpulan data kualitatif, dan data yang diperoleh dianalisis dengan menggunakan analisis naratif. Proses ini menghasilkan tiga vignet yang utama, setiap satu mewakili perjalanan pembelajaran unik bagi tiga murid yang terlibat dalam kajian. Pelaksanaan pendekatan ini bergantung pada proses pengulangan, selang waktu yang sesuai, serta arahan guru yang jelas dan ringkas.
Human resources and medical supplies consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic: a single-center study
Authors: Park Hye Jin , Seo Yu Bin , Park Jin Ju , Na Sun Hee , Lee Jacob
Published: September 2023

Background: In the face of the unexpected coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, every country has struggled with insufficient human resources and medical supplies. This study aims to provide the statistical information necessary for discussing how to model stockpiles of medical resources.Methods: This study was conducted at the Hallym University Kangnam Sacred Heart Hospital, in South Korea. The study duration was 2 weeks, centered on March 16, 2022, when the number of daily confirmed patients with COVID-19 in Korea peaked. The number of human resources was obtained by counting the number of healthcare workers using CCTV. Drug prescriptions and medical device usage were obtained from electronic medical records.Results: In total, 117 inpatients and 26,485 outpatients were managed at this hospital during the 2-week study period. Daily visits were highest among nurses in all units, followed by doctors and radiology technicians. The mean daily consumption of personal protective equipment (PPE) per bed was 4.3 sets in the intensive care unit (ICU), 1.8 in the semi-ICU, and 1.4 in the ward. Despite the four-fold difference in the number of patients, there was no statistically significant difference between the two wards in the number of daily visits. Drug prescription rates were higher among inpatients than at-home patients.Conclusions: The higher the COVID-19 severity, the higher the consumption of PPE per patient. Among healthcare workers, nurses had the highest number of inpatient treatment visits for COVID-19. To efficiently utilize, PPE, structures containing more isolation beds in a single negative pressure isolation system would be preferred.
Ten Things We Know about Humanitarian Numbers
Authors: Glasman Joël , Lawson Brendan
Published: September 2023

The modern humanitarian sector is gripped by a data frenzy. How can we take a
step back and critically engage with what datafication means? This introduction
to the special section begins by outlining three broad theoretical positions
within the literature: positivist, constructivist, and reflexivity of actors. To
dive deeper, and to tie together the four pieces in this special section, we
point to ‘ten things we know about humanitarian numbers’. The ten
points cover issues of epistemology, institutionalisation, linguistics, social
justice, technology, theorisation and power. Taken together, they offer
different springboards from which academics can launch into critiques of data in
the humanitarian sector.
Medical Research and the Production of Reliable Data
Authors: Issoufou Mamane Sani Souley
Published: September 2023

This article describes and analyses the tensions linked to the flaws in the
system of a randomised clinical trial conducted by Epicentre, an epidemiological
research centre created by the non-governmental organisation Médecins
Sans Frontières, in southern Niger. It presents an ethnography of the
practice of therapeutic experimentation in the context of a clinical trial in
which we observe the meticulousness of a set of monitored practices, framed by a
bureaucracy and a hierarchy specific to the medical profession, intended to
reduce bias as much as possible in order to produce reliable data. Based on an
ethnographic survey with the combined use of participant observations
(interviews as part of the real-time follow-up of this clinical trial), this
article is part of the literature of Science and Technology Studies (STS), which
consists in describing the science in the making (Callon, 1986, 2003; Latour and Woolgar,
2006; Pestre, 2010). It
shows the difficulties of a trial that has not taken into account the local
contexts of its implementation, the ‘real life’ and its unexpected
effects.
Towards a Conceptualisation of Relational Humanitarianism
Authors: Brun Cathrine , Horst Cindy
Published: September 2023

In this article we suggest that the call for widening participation as part of
the quest for a more localised humanitarianism has overlooked the clash of
ethical registers that this would entail. We show that the formal script of the
professionalised humanitarian system operates with an individualised ethics,
while multiple other actors that exist alongside the humanitarian system operate
with a relational ethical register. Based on a literature review on civic
humanitarianism and humanitarianism embedded in social practice, we explore
dimensions of the web of social interaction within which humanitarian practices
often take place. We ask how to conceptualise these humanitarian relationships
when relationships in themselves are understood as compromising humanitarian
principles. Inspired by decolonial perspectives and relational ontologies and
ethics, we then identify key dimensions of a relational humanitarianism:
solidarity, responsibility and justice; identity and belonging; social distance
and proximity; and temporality. In conclusion we suggest that for calls for
localisation to succeed in genuinely changing power relations and practices,
better understanding and recognition of relational ethical registers that
operate alongside the formal script of the professionalised humanitarian system
is required.
The Anesthetic Effects of Lidocaine with Epinephrine in Digital Nerve Blocks: A Systematic Review
Authors: Arp Allison S. , Multani Jasmine K. , Yen Renata W. , Brooks Brady M. , Brooks Bradley M. , Brooks Brandon M.
Published: September 2023

There is a long-standing stigma associated with the use of epinephrine in digital nerve blocks (DNBs) over the concern of digital necrosis. We conducted a systematic review to assess the duration of anesthesia, onset of anesthesia, and complications of lidocaine with epinephrine compared with plain lidocaine for DNBs in adults. We searched Medline via Ovid, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov on January 28, 2020. We included randomized controlled trials that examined lidocaine with epinephrine 1:80,000 to 1:1,000,000 (1–12.5 µg/mL) and plain lidocaine for DNBs of fingers or toes in adults. We completed a blinded review of all unique articles, followed by full-text reviews, data extraction, and quality assessment of all eligible trials. Risk of bias was assessed to inform qualitative data analysis. We identified seven studies with a combined 363 adults and 442 DNBs that met the inclusion criteria. All five studies that reported duration of anesthesia established longer duration in the epinephrine-supplemented lidocaine group, with significant increases in three. Two of the three studies that reported the onset of anesthesia demonstrated significant differences. The two studies that reported complications did not have a single case of digital necrosis. In adults, the use of lidocaine with epinephrine 1:80,000 to 1:1,000,000 (1–12.5 µg/mL) for DNB yields a longer duration of anesthetic effect and seems to be as safe as plain lidocaine in healthy adults. Several studies had some concern for bias, and additional studies are warranted.
Identification of key yeast species and microbe–microbe interactions impacting larval growth of Drosophila in the wild
Authors: Mure Ayumi , Sugiura Yuki , Maeda Rae , Honda Kohei , Sakurai Nozomu , Takahashi Yuuki , Watada Masayoshi , Katoh Toshihiko , Gotoh Aina , Gotoh Yasuhiro , Taniguchi Itsuki , Nakamura Keiji , Hayashi Tetsuya , Katayama Takane , Uemura Tadashi , Hattori Yukako
Published: September 2023

Microbiota consisting of various fungi and bacteria have a significant impact on the physiological functions of the host. However, it is unclear which species are essential to this impact and how they affect the host. This study analyzed and isolated microbes from natural food sources of Drosophila larvae, and investigated their functions. Hanseniaspora uvarum is the predominant yeast responsible for larval growth in the earlier stage of fermentation. As fermentation progresses, Acetobacter orientalis emerges as the key bacterium responsible for larval growth, although yeasts and lactic acid bacteria must coexist along with the bacterium to stabilize this host–bacterial association. By providing nutrients to the larvae in an accessible form, the microbiota contributes to the upregulation of various genes that function in larval cell growth and metabolism. Thus, this study elucidates the key microbial species that support animal growth under microbial transition.
Influence of Specific Gravity Grading Using Floatation Technique on seed and Seedling Quality Characteristics in Amaranthus CV. PLR 1
Authors: Tharani N. , Geetha V. Vijaya , Manonmani V. , Rani M. S. Aneesa , Parameswari E.
Published: September 2023

Study was undergone to evaluate the efficacy of floatation grading on the seeds of Amaranthus Cv. PLR 1 using organic solvents in Department of Seed Science and Technology, TNAU, Coimbatore during March 2023.The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design with four replications in each five treatments. We considered four organic solvents viz., Acetone, Methanol, Dichloromethane and Petroleum Ether along with water and observed the seed recovery percentage, germination percentage, root length, shoot length and vigour index of all the treatments. The results showed that sinker fraction regardless of organic solvent and water performed better than floater fraction. The grading ability of Dichloromethane was greater among the assessed organic solvents. The sinkers seed recovery percent of dichloromethane (93%) was higher than sinkers recovered by water (63%). Also, the sinkers of dichloromethane recorded higher germination percent(77%) and vigour index(304) than the sinkers of water whose germination percent is 55% and vigour index is 272.This specific gravity grading using dichloromethane can be adopted to segregate well filled and ill filled seeds in a seed lot of Amaranthus. This method of floatation grading is a good substitute for sieve grading which requires skilled labour and availability of specific size sieve to properly segregate seeds. So, this can be used as an alternate method for grading Amaranthus seeds.
Impacts of Sodium Hypochlorite on Humans and Environment
Authors: Arya Satyajeet , Gupta Sonam , Thakur Sunidhi , Mishra Ajay Kumar
Published: September 2023

Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) usage is increased extraordinarily after COVID-19. After lockdown, NaOCl is used as a disinfectant at every possible public and private place. Hospitals and Institutions were using it for the same purpose. In this study, NaOCl chemistry is investigated. Its impact on humans and the environment is also analyzed from the available literature. Although, some immediately recent research papers are also considered and mentioned in this paper. This paper also encapsulates information about NaOCl usage, advantage, comparison with other disinfectants, importance, precautions, etc. This study concludes the standardized use of NaOCland also recommends the policy required for its use.
Diffusion Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Evaluation of Gynecological Masses
Authors: Elsafty Eman Mosad Fawzy , EL-Badry Amr Mohamed Tawfek , Dorf Ayman Abd El Aziz El , Reda Alaa Mohamed
Published: September 2023

Background: Diffusion-weighted MRI has potential for tissue differentiation, including cancer. It can also determine cancer histologic type. The ADC value reflects tumor cellular density, allowing tumor grading evaluation. This study aims to assess the role of DW-MRI in gynecological masses.

Methods: This prospective cross-sectional research was conducted on 30 female patients between the ages of 20 and 75 who were sent from the gynaecological department to the Radio diagnostic and Medical Imaging department at Tanta University hospitals. All patients gave their informed permission in writing. We included patients with clinically or sonographically suspected uterine and cervical lesions. Patients having indeterminate ultrasonography criteria for adnexal lesions.

Results: Resistance Index (RI) showed significant predictive value of the malignant masses (p=0.13), with an area under curve (AUC) of 0.84. An RI cutoff value of ≥0.365 could predict malignant masses with a sensitivity of 81.8% and specificity of 87.5%. T ROC curve analysis to assess the validity of ADC to discriminate malignant masses is illustrated. ADC values showed significant predictive value of the malignant masses (p<0.001*), with an area under curve (AUC) of 0.89. An ADC cutoff value of ≤1 could predict malignant masses with a sensitivity of 85.7% and specificity of 89.5%.

Conclusions: Combined ultrasound and MRI examination produced radiologic findings with 98 percent sensitivity, 92.9 percent specificity, 95 percent positive predictive value, and 97 percent negative predictive value when compared to the final pathologic diagnosis. The research indicated that DWI and ADC mapping are excellent imaging methods for discriminating benign from malignant tumours with a high degree of sensitivity and specificity. However, their effectiveness and benefits depend on a precise diagnosis of the lesions' essential features, such as their origin, size, and composition, as assessed by ultrasound and standard MRI tests.
Determination of Age-Related Variations with Orbital Dimensions of the Orbit Based on Plain Radiographs of Nigerians: A 5-Year Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Bello A.  , Usman J. D.
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Cephalometry has been widely used in substantial aspects of medicine. The morphometric assessment of the orbit and familiarity with its anatomy is significant clinically in the diagnosis of lesions in the orbit and reconstructive surgeries of the face. There is an important link between diagnostic radiology and ophthalmology. Most previous studies use direct techniques on living, cadaveric specimens, or dry bones to assess the orbital dimensions.

Aim: To determine the relationship between the orbital dimensions and the increase in age.

Materials and Methods: A 5-year retrospective cross-sectional study using 255 normal skull radiographs obtained from the Department of Diagnostic Radiology of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital was done. The radiographs were visualized on an illuminator and measurements of the orbital dimensions were made with the aid of a transparent ruler and a pencil.   Results: The orbital dimensions of the subjects used in this study in relation to their age groups revealed a steady rise in the dimensions with the increase in age until the age range of 51-60 years when it reaches the peak value and then gradually declines. In the measurement of the interorbital distance in relation to age, it was similarly found to increase with increasing age of the subjects however reaching its peak at the age range of 31-40 years then gradually dropping.

Conclusions: The orbital dimensions show a positive correlation with increasing age.
Liquefaction-Induced Lateral Displacement and Settlement Mapping for Yogyakarta-Bawen Toll Road Section I & II, Indonesia
Authors: Kevin Paulus , Muhrozi Muhrozi
Published: September 2023

The liquefaction-induced ground displacement (the lateral displacement and ground settlement) study in the Yogyakarta-Bawen toll road, Indonesia, is not yet conducted as the importance of this project, the project needs to be mapped. In this study, the mapping is conducted using two methods for lateral displacement, Gillins & Bartlett’s method and Zhang et al.’s method, while the mapping of ground settlement using Tokimatsu & Seed’s method and Yoshimine’s method. For Gillins & Bartlett’s method, the lateral displacement map in Yogyakarta-Bawen is dominated by moderate to high categories in section I but relatively low in section II. Meanwhile, Zhang et al.’s map in the I & II sections of the toll road is relatively dominated by the moderate category. Furthermore, the ground settlement map in I & II sections with Tokimatsu & Seed is mostly categorized as very high meanwhile Yoshimine’s map is predominately classified as low to moderate.
Nonhormonal Therapies for Menopausal Vasomotor Symptoms
Authors: Christ Jacob P. , Navarro Víctor M. , Reed Susan D.
Published: September 2023

This JAMA Insights in the Women’s Health series describes the use of fezolinetant and neurokinin B antagonists as nonhormonal therapies for menopausal vasomotor symptoms.
Over-the-Counter Progestin-Only Oral Contraceptives
Authors: Fleurant Erin , Mokashi Mugdha , Simon Melissa A.
Published: September 2023

This JAMA Patient Page describes progestin-only oral contraceptive pills, which recently have been approved to be sold over the counter.
Estimation of parameters for effective stress analysis to reproduce the liquefaction strength curve and stress path obtained from laboratory tests
Authors: Nakamura Soshi , Hatanaka Yuta , Suzuki Takuya , Fujiwara Yoshihiro
Published: September 2023

Effective stress analysis using liquefaction parameters is often employed for the numerical analysis of soil liquefaction. However, to the best of our knowledge, liquefaction parameters that simultaneously reproduce the liquefaction strength curve and effective stress path have not been reported to date. Herein, we propose a new method to estimate the model parameters used in effective stress analysis: the liquefaction strength and pore pressure curves obtained from laboratory tests are used as targets for inverse analysis. The results confirmed that the parameters obtained by our method could reproduce the liquefaction strength, pore pressure curves, and the effective stress path with high accuracy, which was difficult to achieve using conventional methods.
Revealing the Thermal Damage Mechanism of an Al–Zr–Er Alloy Wire by Quantitative Calculation: The Contribution of Dislocations and Nano‐Precipitates
Authors: Wu Yingjie , Su Yingying , Dang Peng , Cai Xichuan , Lin Junliang , Zhang Yanning , Zhou Jiayi , Xin Mengying , Liu Shuning , Wang Qiang
Published: September 2023

The thermal damage mechanism of Al wires for long‐distance overhead transmission under extreme service conditions is an important scientific issue that restricts the design and development of high‐performance Al wires. In this study, the thermal damage mechanism of the Al–Zr–Er alloy wires with a good combination of ultimate tensile strength in 170.0 MPa and electrical conductivity in 61.42% IACS is investigated via a simulated high‐temperature service experiment. In the results, it is shown that strength evolution exhibits a negative exponential pattern mainly attributed to the partial dislocation recovery in the cold‐drawn Al wires based on the quantitative calculation. However, the nanoscale Al3(Zr, Er) precipitates exhibit good thermal stability. The strength residual rate of the Al–Zr–Er alloy wires exceeds 90% after the simulated high‐temperature treatment at 280 °C, which can be attributed to the strongly pinning effect of nanoscale Al3(Zr, Er) precipitates on the dislocations and the grain boundaries, finally leading to the larger Zener drag force as compared with the driving force for recrystallization, thereby achieving good heat resistance of Al–Zr–Er alloy wires.
Stimuli‐Responsive Liquid Metal Hybrids for Human‐Interactive Electronics
Authors: Kim HoYeon , Zan Guangtao , Seo Youngwoo , Lee Seokyeong , Park Cheolmin
Published: September 2023

The development of stimuli‐responsive liquid metal hybrids (SrLMHs) is of great interest, owing to their ability to induce responsivity and innovative properties to liquid metal (LM) when hybridized. Various stimuli‐responsivities yield new realms for SrLMHs in the fields of human‐interactive electronics (HIEs). This review provides an overview on the development of SrLMHs for HIEs. First, discussion is on SrLMH systems regarding their configuration, the materials utilized for the establishment of new hybrid materials, various stimuli‐responsive systems, their operation mechanisms, and applications. Followed by the characterization and summary of SrLMHs, details on how SrLMHs are incorporated for HIEs, and their progression is reviewed, from a single mechanical stimulus sensing capability to multi‐modal functionality. Finally, the review concludes on the overall progress of SrLMH‐based HIEs, their advancement direction, and the challenges that still remain.
Non‐Faraday Electrolyte Additives for Capacitance Boosting by Compression of Dielectric Layer Thickness: Organic Ferroelectric Salts
Authors: Liang Hongyu , Tang Shengda , Zhou Yan , Jiang Wenya , Kang Qin , Zhang Hongyu , Wang Shihao , Li Yuman , Li Huaming , Zou Guoqiang , Bu Yongfeng
Published: September 2023

Carbon‐based supercapacitors are one of the most widely used commercial products. Organic electrolyte systems, such as tetraethylammonium tetrafluoroborate/acetonitrile (TEABF4/ACN), remain dominant after decades of development due to cost and performance advantages. However, improving the capacitance of existing carbon‐electrolyte systems not by altering the pore structure and surface properties of activated carbon is full of challenges. Herein, a non‐Faraday organic ferroelectric salt additive (diisopropylamine perchlorate, DIPAP) that can significantly increase capacitance from the standpoint of electrolyte dielectric modulation is proposed for the first time. Compared to counter ions, DIPA+ plays a vital role in capacity enhancement, in which electron‐rich N‐doped mesoporous carbon can greatly boost capacity by promoting local ion mobility. In situ Raman and theoretical studies show that small‐size DIPA+ can enter the pore and be enriched closer to electrode surfaces than TEA+ and ACN, allowing it to regulate the distribution of electric double‐layer species and dielectric properties (i.e., effective thickness of dielectric and/or relative dielectric constant), increasing capacity by up to 21.6–45.8% with only 1 wt% DIPAP while maintaining desired rate performances. The understanding of the mechanism of capacitance increase by such additives opens up new avenues for further extension of the commercialized carbon electrode‐organic electrolyte system's potential.
An Adaptable Nanoprobe Integrated with Quantitative T1‐Mapping MRI for Accurate Differential Diagnosis of Multidrug‐Resistant Lung Cancer
Authors: Shen Aijun , Sun Yanhong , Wang Gangmin , Meng Xianfu , Ren Xihui , Wan Qingxuan , Lv Qi , Wang Xiangbin , Ni Jiong , Li Minghua , Ma Xiaolong , Xu Yun , Jiang Yutao , Wang Fang , Cheng YingSheng , Wang Peijun
Published: September 2023

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is one of the major factors causing failure of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) chemotherapy. Real‐time and accurate differentiation between drug‐resistant and sensitive NSCLC is of primary importance for guiding the subsequent treatments and improving the therapeutic outcome. However, there is no effective method to provide such an accurate differentiation. This study creates an innovative strategy of integrating H2O2‐responsive nanoprobes with the quantitative T1‐mapping magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique to achieve an accurate differential diagnosis between drug‐resistant and sensitive NSCLC in light of differences in H2O2 content in the tumor microenvironment (TME). The result demonstrates that the synthesized MIL‐53(Fe)@MnO2 nanocomposites possess an excellent capability of shortening the cancer longitudinal relaxation time (T1) when meeting H2O2 in TME. T1‐mapping MRI could sensitively detect this T1 variation (about 2.6‐fold that of T1‐weighted imaging (T1WI)) to accurately differentiate the H2O2 content between drug‐resistant and sensitive NSCLC. In addition, the quantitative data provided by the T1‐mapping MRI dedicates correct comparison across imaging tests and is more reliable than T1WI, thus giving it a chance for precise assessment of the anti‐cancer effect. This innovative strategy of merging TME adaptable nanoprobes with the quantitative MRI technique provides a new approach for the precise diagnosis of multidrug‐resistant NSCLC.
In Situ Insonation of Alkaline Buffer Containing Liposomes Leads to a Net Improvement of the Therapeutic Outcome in a Triple Negative Breast Cancer Murine Model
Authors: Patrucco Deyssy , Cutrin Juan Carlos , Longo Dario Livio , Botto Elena , Cong Li , Aime Silvio , Delli Castelli Daniela
Published: September 2023

Breast cancer is characterized by an acidic micro‐environment. Acidic extracellular pH gives cancer cells an evolutionary advantage, hence, neutralization of the extracellular pH has been considered as a potential therapeutic strategy. To address the issue of systemic pH alteration, an approach based on the targeted delivery of the buffering solution to the tumor region is investigated. The method relies on the use of low frequency ultrasound and sono‐sensitive liposomes loaded with buffers at alkaline pH (LipHUS). After the i.v. injection of LipHUS, the application of ultrasound (US) at the sites of the pathology induces a local increase of pH that results highly effective in i) inhibiting primary tumor growth, ii) reducing tumor recurrence after surgery, and iii) suppressing metastases’ formation. The experiments are carried out on a triple negative breast cancer mouse model. The results obtained demonstrate that localized and triggered release of bicarbonate or PBS buffer from sonosensitive liposomes represents an efficient therapeutic tool for treating triple‐negative breast cancer. This approach holds promise for potential clinical translation.
Unlocking the Ambient Temperature Effect on FA‐Based Perovskites Crystallization by In Situ Optical Method
Authors: Wang Yunfan , Zeng Zixin , Zhang Yuxuan , Zhang Zhuoqiong , Bi Leyu , He Aoxi , Cheng Yuanhang , Jen Alex K.‐Y. , Ho Johnny C. , Tsang Sai‐Wing
Published: September 2023

Multiple cation‐composited perovskites are demonstrated as a promising approach to improving the performance and stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, recipes developed for fabricating high‐performance perovskites in laboratories are always not transferable in large‐scale production, as perovskite crystallization is highly sensitive to processing conditions. Here, using an in situ optical method, the ambient temperature effect on the crystallization process in multiple cation‐composited perovskites is investigated. It is found that the typical solvent‐coordinated intermediate phase in methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) is absent in formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI3), and nucleation is almost completed in FAPbI3 right after spin‐coating. Interestingly, it is found that there is noticeable nuclei aggregation in Formamidinium (FA)‐based perovskites even during the spin‐coating process, which is usually only observed during the annealing in MAPbI3. Such aggregation is further promoted at a higher ambient temperature or in higher FA content. Instead of the general belief of stress release‐induced crack formation, it is proposed that the origin of the cracks in FA‐based perovskites is due to the aggregation‐induced solute depletion effect. This work reveals the limiting factors for achieving high‐quality FA‐based perovskite films and helps to unlock the existing narrow processing window for future large‐scale production.
Soft Tactile Coil‐Based Sensor for Misalignment Detection of Adhesive Fibrillary Gripping Systems
Authors: Herter Simon , Stopp Philipp , Fischer Sarah C.L.
Published: September 2023

Micropatterned dry adhesive systems are a promising alternative to conventional handling solutions. However, the use of these gripping systems still requires precise manual adjustment of the gripping parameters. To address this limitation, a coil‐based sensor is designed to enable automatic detection of the attachment process. The sensor consists of three sensing, one transmitting coil, a conductive film, and a compliant layer. The components are optimized to achieve reproducible, precise measurements, and minimize hysteresis effects of the components. A mathematical concept to calculate the geometrical relations between the gripping object and the gripper is established based on triangulation. The functionality of the sensor system is demonstrated in contact experiments with a glass substrate under different tilt angles, and an accuracy of 0.042 degree is achieved. The sensor system not only allows precise detection of the misalignment angle but also fast estimation of the qualitative direction of misalignment with minimal compression. This is interesting for scaling the sensor system to industrial pick‐and‐place applications as it promises to speed up the handling times and reliability of the fibrillary adhesives. In the future, the system needs to be extended to capture more complex objects and properties to be applicable to more handling problems.
Long‐Life Lithium‐Ion Sulfur Pouch Battery Enabled by Regulating Solvent Molecules and Using Lithiated Graphite Anode
Authors: Huang Dan , Wang Zhicheng , Han Ran , Hu Shoulei , Xue Jiangyan , Wei Yumeng , Song Haiqi , Liu Yang , Xu Jingjing , Ge Jun , Wu Xiaodong
Published: September 2023

The development of lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries is severely limited by the shuttle effect and instability of Li‐metal anode. Constructing Li‐ion S batteries (LISBs), by using more stable commercial graphite (Gr) anode instead of Li‐metal, is an effective way to realize long‐cycle‐life Li‐S batteries. However, Gr electrode is usually incompatible with the ether‐based electrolytes commonly used for Li‐S batteries due to the Li+‐ether complex co‐intercalation into Gr interlayers. Herein, a solvent molecule structure regulation strategy is provided to weaken the Li+‐solvent binding by increasing steric hindrance and electronegativity, to accelerate Li+ de‐solvation process and prevent Li+‐ether complex co‐intercalation into Gr anode. Meanwhile, the weakly solvating power of solvent can suppress the shuttle effect of lithium polysulfides and makes more anions participate in Li+ solvation structure to generate a stable anion‐derived solid electrolyte interface on Gr surface. Therefore, a LISB coin‐cell consisting of lithiated graphite anode and S@C cathode displays a stable capacity of ≈770 mAh g−1 within 200 cycles. Furthermore, an unprecedented practical LISB pouch‐cell with a high Gr loading (≈10.5 mg cm−2) also delivers a high initial capacity of 802.3 mAh g−1 and releases a stable capacity of 499.1 mAh g−1 with a high Coulombic efficiency (≈95.9%) after 120 cycles.
Altered Brain Energy Metabolism Related to Astrocytes in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Hirata Kosei , Matsuoka Kiwamu , Tagai Kenji , Endo Hironobu , Tatebe Harutsugu , Ono Maiko , Kokubo Naomi , Oyama Asaka , Shinotoh Hitoshi , Takahata Keisuke , Obata Takayuki , Dehghani Masoumeh , Near Jamie , Kawamura Kazunori , Zhang Ming‐Rong , Shimada Hitoshi , Yokota Takanori , Tokuda Takahiko , Higuchi Makoto , Takado Yuhei
Published: September 2023

Objective

Increasing evidence suggests that reactive astrocytes are associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, its underlying pathogenesis remains unknown. Given the role of astrocytes in energy metabolism, reactive astrocytes may contribute to altered brain energy metabolism. Astrocytes are primarily considered glycolytic cells, suggesting a preference for lactate production. This study aimed to examine alterations in astrocytic activities and their association with brain lactate levels in AD.

Methods

The study included 30 AD and 30 cognitively unimpaired participants. For AD participants, amyloid and tau depositions were confirmed by positron emission tomography using [11C]PiB and [18F]florzolotau, respectively. Myo‐inositol, an astroglial marker, and lactate in the posterior cingulate cortex were quantified by magnetic resonance spectroscopy. These magnetic resonance spectroscopy metabolites were compared with plasma biomarkers, including glial fibrillary acidic protein as another astrocytic marker, and amyloid and tau positron emission tomography.

Results

Myo‐inositol and lactate levels were higher in AD patients than in cognitively unimpaired participants (p < 0.05). Myo‐inositol levels correlated with lactate levels (r = 0.272, p = 0.047). Myo‐inositol and lactate levels were positively associated with the Clinical Dementia Rating sum‐of‐boxes scores (p < 0.05). Significant correlations were noted between myo‐inositol levels and plasma glial fibrillary acidic protein, tau phosphorylated at threonine 181 levels, and amyloid and tau positron emission tomography accumulation in the posterior cingulate cortex (p < 0.05).

Interpretation

We found high myo‐inositol levels accompanied by increased lactate levels in the posterior cingulate cortex in AD patients, indicating a link between reactive astrocytes and altered brain energy metabolism. Myo‐inositol and plasma glial fibrillary acidic protein may reflect similar astrocytic changes as biomarkers of AD. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:104–115