bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Aortic Root in Tetrology of Fallot by Multislice Computed Tomography
Authors: Abdelwahab Aya Mohamed
Published: December 2023

Background: Tetralogy of fallot (TOF) is the most prevalent cyanotic congenital heart disease (CHD), affecting three out of every 10,000 births. TOF is linked to conal malseptation and lack of rotation, result in failure of the union of the conal and ventricular septa and anterior malalignment of the conal septum, producing the classic tetrad of findings. This work aimed to assess the role of ECG-gated multislice computed tomography (MSCT) in assessing conal malseptation in TOF by measuring the aortic root's clockwise angle rotation, which may serve as a predictor for the degree of conal malseptation and, consequently, the maldevelopment of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT).

Methods: This prospective study was performed on 30 individuals who underwent MDCT cardiac angiography of the heart and great vessels to confirm the diagnosis or to address specific anatomic questions raised by inconclusive echocardiography findings before planning the appropriate management. The examined cases were classified into two groups: Group 1 (TOF-PS) TOF with pulmonary stenosis (n=20) and Group 2 (TOF-PA) TOF with pulmonary atresia (n=10) .Using a true short-axis view of the aortic valve, the aortic root rotation was determined by drawing a line joining the interleafet anterior commissure and the middle of non-coronary sinus then measuring its angle with the interatrial septum plane. Correlation was done between the rotation angle and main pulmonary artery (MPA) diameter indexed to body surface area.

Results: All cases exhibited a rotation of the aortic root in a clockwise direction, with no instances of counterclockwise rotation. The TOF-PA group had a larger rotation angle of the root of the aorta compared to TOF-PS group with a statistical significance difference between the two groups (67.23⁰ ± 13.45⁰ vs 54.34⁰ ± 6.54⁰, P=0.028 respectively). The mean MPA diameter indexed to BSA 12.91 ± 6.05 mm/m2. The angle of aortic root rotation in a clockwise direction was negatively correlated with the indexed MPA diameter with spearman coefficient = -0.325 and p=0.162. A cut-off value of aortic angle of 56.8° was determined, above which there is a risk of pulmonary atresia (AUC=0.750, 95% CI= 0.535 – 0.965) with sensitivity 70%, specificity 65%, positive predictive value of was 50% and negative predictive value was 81.2%.

Conclusions: MSCT quantitatively assesses conal malseptation and its impact in individuals with TOF. The aortic root rotates at an angle in the clockwise direction. There is a negative correlation between the degree of aortic root rotation in a clockwise direction and the size of the proximal MPA. Patients diagnosed with TOF with pulmonary atresia (pa) exhibit a greater degree of aortic root rotation.
Assessment of Risk Factors of Bacteriological Contamination of Vegetables Sold on the Markets of Niamey, Niger
Authors: Alio Almou Abdoulaye , Abdel-Kader Alio Sanda , Chaibou Yaou , Moustapha Rabiou Maman , Abdoulahi Mahamane Idi Issa , Seini Sabo Haoua , Hassimi Sadou
Published: December 2023

Vegetables are an important and varied source of food that complements the dietary needs of populations whose basic diet consists mainly of carbohydrates, the main energy source. The general aim of this study is to identify the risk factors for bacteriological contamination of vegetables associated with sales practices, through a survey of sales markets. Vegetable sales are carried out by men (87.59%), most of them are aged between 20 and 39 (68.70%) and are not educated (68.70%). Practices at risk of bacteriological contamination include using public toilets (80.87%), not washing hands with soap after using the toilet (36.56%), washing vegetables at the reception (39.13%), using water from public toilets (55.56%), displaying vegetables on unhygienic supports (60.00%), selling vegetables by the side of public roads (55.65%) or near open canals (4.35%). These practices are likely to result in bacteriological contamination of vegetables on the markets. Therefore, it seems much more necessary to training vegetable vendors and raise their awareness of the risks of bacteriological contamination of vegetables.
Chegadas e partidas da “Diáspora Trans”
Authors: Meneses Cleber , Ennes Marcelo
Published: December 2023

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a intersecção entre trajetórias migrantes e gênero como expressões do processo de des/reconstrução de identidades vivenciado por mulheres trans e travestis brasileiras a partir da categoria de análise “diáspora trans”. A pesquisa foi realizada entre 2017 e 2020 e se baseou na revisão bibliográfica, fundamentação teórica e em fontes orais. Como conclusão, propomos que a “Diáspora Trans” é vivenciada a partir de dinâmicas plurais, móveis e provisórias, tanto no trânsito de gênero quanto na migração geográfica.
O Império contra-ataca
Authors: Stone Sandy
Published: December 2023

Neste ensaio considerado o marco fundador dos estudos trans estadunidenses, Sandy Stone, a partir da análise de autobiografias de mulheres trans e de literatura médica, examina e desafia o modo como saberes médicos historicamente investigaram e elaboraram concepções normativas sobre a transexualidade. A autora aponta pressupostos cisheteronormativos que orientaram a produção de conhecimento de profissionais da medicina acerca do trânsito de gênero, e conecta esse campo de pesquisa e intervenção com discursos de feministas radicais em um cerne fundamental: a apreensão de pessoas trans como alienadas e incapazes de compreender e expressar verdade sobre si. Se em um primeiro momento pode ser lido como uma resposta ao livro anti-trans “The Transsexual Empire” de Janice Raymond, “O império contra-ataca” se mostra mais do que isso: é uma crítica à exclusão de pessoas trans do regime de enunciação sobre subjetividades e experiência trans, e um chamamento para que tais sujeitos se apropriem de sua capacidade transformativa e disruptiva, participando na formação de um movimento intelectual, criativo e político contra-discursivo.
Educando com o cu
Authors: Lustosa Tertuliana Mascarenhas
Published: December 2023

O presente texto busca iniciar um debate levantado através da aula “Educando com o cu: traveco-terrorismo e descolonialidade de gênero na arte”, para pensar implicações do prazer e do corpo enquanto potências pedagógicas e artísticas. Sendo assim, foi transcrita toda a introdução da aula realizada na Escola de Dança da Universidade Federal da Bahia (UFBA), que discute inclusive sobre a resposta midiática e a sua recepção no espaço público. O texto transpõe a oralidade enquanto mecanismo de produção de conhecimento, sendo assim, o que foi escrito surge do ato oral. E, por fim, o texto traz uma conclusão escrita sobre os temas apresentados, pensando ainda em visões e perspectivas dissidentes de pesquisadores brasileiros sobre o tema.
Pharmacological effects of osimertinib on a chicken chorioallantoic membrane xenograft model with the EGFR exon‐19‐deleted advanced NSCLC mutation
Authors: Barthélémy David , Vigneron Arnaud , Rousset Xavier , Guitton Jérome , Grolleau Emmanuel , Raffin Margaux , Balandier Julie , Lescuyer Gaëlle , Bardou Mathilde , Geiguer Florence , Couraud Sébastien , Bardel Claire , Viallet Jean , Benzerdjeb Nazim , Payen Léa
Published: January 2025

Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) affects 10–50% of patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. Osimertinib is a third‐generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that radically changes the outcome of patients with tumors bearing EGFR sensitizing or EGFR T790M resistance mutations. However, resistance usually occurs, and new therapeutic combinations need to be explored. The chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) xenograft model is ideal for studying aggressive tumor growth and the responses to complex therapeutic combinations due to its vascularization and complex microenvironment. This study aims to demonstrate the relevance of analyzing a complex therapeutic response to osimertinib treatment, especially through advanced transcriptomic analysis with the CAM model, which has been limited thus far. We engrafted HCC827 cells (EGFR p.E746_A750del) into the CAM model and treated them with various osimertinib doses for 7 days. The study involved supervised multivariate discrimination and ontology analysis of human transcriptional data. We found that CDX tumor growth inversely correlated with osimertinib dosage, with a notable 35% tumor weight reduction at 10 μm. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that osimertinib reduces EGFR pathway activity and its effectors, and dampens chemotaxis, immune recruitment and angiogenesis, indicating that effectiveness extends beyond cellular mechanisms to the tissue level. This was supported by a 15% reduction in blood vessels around the xenograft in osimertinib‐treated cases. This study is the first to demonstrate that ontological analysis of transcriptomic data in the CAM model aligns with clinical observations, highlighting the relevance of this methodology for understanding and ameliorating the efficacy of targeted therapy in NSCLC.
Electron Density Modulation‐Enhanced Magnetic Nanocatalysis for Anti‐Tumor Therapy
Authors: Zhao Jiaping , Feng Chuanlin , Zheng Fangcai , Qian Yong , Zhang Xin , Wang Hui
Published: January 2025

The local electron distribution at active sites is one of the key determinants to affect the catalytic activity for hydroxyl radicals (·OH) generation from endogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to boost chemodynamic therapy (CDT) efficiency. Herein, carbon‐coated NiFe2O4 nanocatalysts (NFN@C) with localized electron distribution at octahedral Fe sites induced by the dopant of Ni into the spinel structure is designed to significantly enhance CDT efficiency. The localized electron configuration promotes ·OH adsorption, intensifying its Fenton reaction activity. Moreover, Ni incorporation endows NFN@C with exceptional efficacy in near‐infrared II (NIR‐II) mediated photothermal therapy (PTT), amplifying its cancer‐fighting potential. Rigorous In Vitro and In Vivo analyses highlight the unmatched capability of NFN@C in tumor ablation through combined PTT and CDT modalities. This work presents a potent strategy for adjusting the local electron distribution at active sites, thereby significantly enhancing the efficacy of NIR‐II responsive magnetic nanocatalysts and enabling multifunctional therapeutic applications.
Light‐Emitting Diodes Based on Metal Halide Perovskite and Perovskite Related Nanocrystals
Authors: Liu Ying , Ma Zhuangzhuang , Zhang Jibin , He Yanni , Dai Jinfei , Li Xinjian , Shi Zhifeng , Manna Liberato
Published: January 2025

Light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) based on halide perovskite nanocrystals have attracted extensive attention due to their considerable luminescence efficiency, wide color gamut, high color purity, and facile material synthesis. Since the first demonstration of LEDs based on MAPbBr3 nanocrystals was reported in 2014, the community has witnessed a rapid development in their performances. In this review, a historical perspective of the development of LEDs based on halide perovskite nanocrystals is provided and then a comprehensive survey of current strategies for high‐efficiency lead‐based perovskite nanocrystals LEDs, including synthesis optimization, ion doping/alloying, and shell coating is presented. Then the basic characteristics and emission mechanisms of lead‐free perovskite and perovskite‐related nanocrystals emitters in environmentally friendly LEDs, from the standpoint of different emission colors are reviewed. Finally, the progress in LED applications is covered and an outlook of the opportunities and challenges for future developments in this field is provided.
Nonlinear Ion Dynamics Enable Spike Timing Dependent Plasticity of Electrochemical Ionic Synapses
Authors: Huang Mantao , Xu Longlong , del Alamo Jesús A. , Li Ju , Yildiz Bilge
Published: January 2025

Programmable synaptic devices that can achieve timing‐dependent weight updates are key components to implementing energy‐efficient spiking neural networks (SNNs). Electrochemical ionic synapses (EIS) enable the programming of weight updates with very low energy consumption and low variability. Here, the strongly nonlinear kinetics of EIS, arising from nonlinear dynamics of ions and charge transfer reactions in solids, are leveraged to implement various forms of spike‐timing‐dependent plasticity (STDP). In particular, protons are used as the working ion. Different forms of the STDP function are deterministically predicted and emulated by a linear superposition of appropriately designed pre‐ and post‐synaptic neuron signals. Heterogeneous STDP is also demonstrated within the array to capture different learning rules in the same system. STDP timescales are controllable, ranging from milliseconds to nanoseconds. The STDP resulting from EIS has lower variability than other hardware STDP implementations, due to the deterministic and uniform insertion of charge in the tunable channel material. The results indicate that the ion and charge transfer dynamics in EIS can enable bio‐plausible synapses for SNN hardware with high energy efficiency, reliability, and throughput.
PNA Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles on TiO2 Nanotubes Biosensor for Electrochemical DNA Fragment Detection
Authors: Kim Younghwan , Mohanty Swomitra Kumar
Published: January 2025

Developing highly sensitive and selective biosensors remains a critical challenge in molecular diagnostics. A novel peptide nucleic acid (PNA)‐based biosensor platform is designed by integrating anatase‐phase titanium dioxide nanotubes (TiO2‐NTs) with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), deposited through sputtering and calcination to enhance signal intensity and suppress non‐specific binding. The synergistic effect arises from the high electrical conductivity of AuNPs, which reduces interfacial resistance and promotes rapid electron transfer. The anatase phase of TiO2‐NTs further enhances charge separation, improving overall device performance. Under 50 °C hybridization conditions, the 300‐s AuNPs sputtered TiO2‐NT electrodes demonstrate up to a 15‐fold higher complementary deoxyribonucleic acid (coDNA) signal intensity (354.75 µA cm−2) than bare TiO2 electrodes, confirming robustness and improved electron transfer efficiency. Furthermore, the signal intensity of single‐stranded DNA (scDNA) decreases from 202.60 µA cm−2 on the 60‐s AuNPs sputtered sample to 65.70 µA cm−2 on the 300‐s sputtered sample, highlighting enhanced selectivity. This improvement is attributed to the denser AuNP distribution and enhanced electrostatic barrier formed by the electric double layer, which effectively suppresses non‐specific interactions by repelling negatively charged DNA molecules. This integration establishes a highly sensitive and selective biosensing platform with promising applications in target nucleotide diagnostics.
Muco‐Penetrating Lipid Nanoparticles Having a Liquid Core for Enhanced Intranasal mRNA Delivery
Authors: Maniyamgama Nipuni , Bae Ki Hyun , Chang Zi Wei , Lee Jialing , Ang Melgious J. Y. , Tan Yong Jie , Ng Lisa F. P. , Renia Laurent , White Kevin P. , Yang Yi Yan
Published: January 2025

Intranasal delivery of mRNA vaccines offers promising opportunities to combat airborne viruses like SARS‐CoV‐2 by provoking mucosal immunity, which not only defends against respiratory infection but also prevents contagious transmission. However, the development of nasal mRNA vaccines has been hampered by the lack of effective means to overcome the mucus barrier. Herein, ionizable lipid‐incorporated liquid lipid nanoparticles (iLLNs) capable of delivering mRNA cargo across airway mucosa are designed. Adjusting the ratios of ionizable and cationic lipids allows fine‐tuning of the pKa of iLLNs to the range of nasal mucosal pH (5.5–6.5), thus facilitating mucus penetration via the formation of near‐neutral, PEGylated muco‐inert surfaces. When nasally administered to mice, the top candidate iLLN‐2/mRNA complexes enable about 60‐fold greater reporter gene expression in the nasal cavity, compared to the benchmark mRNA‐lipid nanoparticles (ALC‐LNP) having the same lipid composition as that of BNT162b2 vaccine. Moreover, a prime‐boost intranasal immunization of iLLN‐2/mRNA complexes elicits a greater magnitude of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike‐specific mucosal IgA and IgG response than ALC‐LNP, without triggering any noticeable inflammatory reactions. Taken together, these results provide useful insights for the design of nasally deliverable mRNA formulations for prophylactic applications.
Nanotherapies Based on ROS Regulation in Oral Diseases
Authors: Luo Xin , Zhang Yanli , Zeng Yuting , Yang Dehong , Zhou Zhiyan , Zheng Ziting , Xiao Ping , Ding Xian , Li Qianlin , Chen Jiaping , Deng Qianwen , Zhong Xincen , Qiu Sijie , Yan Wenjuan
Published: January 2025

Oral diseases rank among the most prevalent clinical conditions globally, typically involving detrimental factors such as infection, inflammation, and injury in their occurrence, development, and outcomes. The concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within cells has been demonstrated as a pivotal player in modulating these intricate pathological processes, exerting significant roles in restoring oral functionality and maintaining tissue structural integrity. Due to their enzyme‐like catalytic properties, unique composition, and intelligent design, ROS‐based nanomaterials have garnered considerable attention in oral nanomedicine. Such nanomaterials have the capacity to influence the spatiotemporal dynamics of ROS within biological systems, guiding the evolution of intra‐ROS to facilitate therapeutic interventions. This paper reviews the latest advancements in the design, functional customization, and oral medical applications of ROS‐based nanomaterials. Through the analysis of the components and designs of various novel nanozymes and ROS‐based nanoplatforms responsive to different stimuli dimensions, it elaborates on their impacts on the dynamic behavior of intra‐ROS and their potential regulatory mechanisms within the body. Furthermore, it discusses the prospects and strategies of nanotherapies based on ROS scavenging and generation in oral diseases, offering alternative insights for the design and development of nanomaterials for treating ROS‐related conditions.
Maladaptive Peripheral Ketogenesis in Schwann Cells Mediated by CB1R Contributes to Diabetic Neuropathy
Authors: Li Weizhen , Yang Tuo , Wang Ningning , Li Baolong , Meng Chuikai , Yu Kaiming , Zhou Xiongyao , Cao Rangjuan , Cui Shusen
Published: January 2025

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is the most common complication of diabetes. Although studies have previously investigated metabolic disruptions in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), the exact metabolic mechanisms underlying DPN remain largely unknown. Herein, a specific form of metabolic remodeling involving aberrant ketogenesis within Schwann cells (SCs) in streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced type I diabetes mellitus is identified. The PNS adapts poorly to such aberrant ketogenesis, resulting in disrupted energy metabolism, mitochondrial damage, and homeostatic decompensation, ultimately contributing to DPN. Additionally, the maladaptive peripheral ketogenesis is highly dependent on the cannabinoid type‐1 receptor (CB1R)‐Hmgcs2 axis. Silencing CB1R reprogrammed the metabolism of SCs by blocking maladaptive ketogenesis, resulting in rebalanced energy metabolism, reduced histopathological changes, and improved neuropathic symptoms. Moreover, this metabolic reprogramming can be induced pharmacologically using JD5037, a peripheral CB1R blocker. These findings revealed a new metabolic mechanism underlying DPN, and promoted CB1R as a promising therapeutic target for DPN.
Covalent Organic Frameworks for Green Energy: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications
Authors: Yang Qianqian , An Juan , Gao Mingming , Wang Hui , Liu Wei , Gao Xing , Wang Rongming , Song Jibin
Published: January 2025

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are a new type of porous organic crystalline material, which have become an emerging platform for promoting the development of green energy technology due to their high surface area, adjustable pores, low skeleton density, and easy functionalization. In recent years, with the continuous advancement of synthesis technology, the synthesis efficiency and sustainability of COFs have been significantly improved, from traditional solvothermal methods to the emergence of various green synthesis strategies such as ion thermal, mechanochemical, and ultrasound assisted methods. This article reviews the main synthesis methods of COFs and explores their applications in the field of green energy, such as photocatalysis, gas adsorption and separation, electrocatalysis, battery, supercapacitor and Proton exchange membrane fuel cell. By analyzing the performance and mechanism of COFs in these applications in detail, this article further looks forward to the challenges and future development trends faced by COFs in green energy technology, aiming to provide valuable reference and inspiration for researchers in related fields.
Facilitating Charge Separation and CO2 Adsorption in g‐C3N4 by Fe Single Atoms on 2D Nitro‐Oxygeneous Carbon for Efficient Artificial Photosynthesis
Authors: Ponchai Jitprabhat , Sangkhun Weradesh , Phawa Chaiyasit , Punklahan Nutthawadee , Chankhanittha Tammanoon , Khemthong Pongtanawat , Chakthranont Pongkarn , Youngjan Saran , Phanthasri Jakkapop , Butburee Teera
Published: January 2025

Photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2), so‐called artificial photosynthesis, has been regarded as the future technology with high potential to sustainably address global warming. However, the efficiency and stability of the catalysts used in this frontier technology are substantially lower than the requirement for practical application and need to be further improved, especially for gas‐phase reactions. In this work, the composites of iron single‐atom catalysts (Fe‐SACs) supported on N/O‐doped carbon and graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) were fabricated to promote the gas‐solid phase photocatalytic CO2 reduction under the simulated sunlight. Insightful characterizations reveal that g‐C3N4 could function as a CO2 capture and light‐absorber, while the Fe‐SACs act as a promotor for charge‐carrier separation. Hence, the catalytic performance was greatly increased compared to that of the individual component. For example, the individual thin g‐C3N4 (T‐CN) and Fe‐SAC can generate total reduced CO2 products of 5.06 and 0.75 μmol.h−1g−1, respectively. On the other hand, the reduced CO2 products were increased by more than doubled (14.62 μmol.h−1g−1) when the composite of T‐CN/Fe‐SAC was used as a catalyst. The photocatalytic enhancement could be attributed to the synergistic effects between Fe‐SAC/T‐CN which possess the stronger CO2 adsorption ability and charge separation capability and the increased number of active sites, resulting in the improved overall performance.
Experiment Teaching Design of Engine Casting Virtual Simulation Based on Unity3D
Authors: Ma Lei , Yan Zhaoxin , Xiong Junjie , Huang Yongzhi , Zhang Junfu , Zhang Lian
Published: January 2025

The aim of this study is to better enable students to grasp the complex material science involved in engine casting, address various engineering challenges, gain precise control of the casting process, strengthen their practical skills, and enhance the effectiveness of teaching engine forging. Firstly, on the basis of real engine forging production, complete 3D modeling of each production line is carried out using the 3dsMax software. Then, the finished models are imported into the virtual simulation software Unity3D to arrange production layouts and perform interactive operations. Lastly, a user interface is designed for the built scene, and the software release is completed. Feedback from users indicates that the software designed in this project serves as a valuable reference and educational tool for students learning about engine casting and related knowledge. However, the complexity of the actual production process was simplified, and due to certain hardware and resource limitations, there remains a gap between the simulation and real production. Future updates and improvements to the software will be made using technical methods based on the feedback received.
Evaluation of Semiempirical Quantum Mechanical Methods for Zr‐Based Metal‐Organic Framework Catalysts
Authors: Le Thanh-Hiep Thi , Gómez-Orellana Pablo , Ortuño Manuel Angel
Published: January 2025

Zr‐based metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are typically employed in heterogeneous catalysis due to their porosity, chemical and thermal stability, and well‐defined active sites. Density functional theory (DFT) is the workhorse to compute their electronic structure; however, it becomes very costly when dealing with reaction mechanisms involving large unit cells and vast configurational spaces. Semiempirical quantum mechanical (SQM) methods appear as an alternative approach to simulate such chemical systems at low computational cost, but their feasibility to model catalysis with MOFs is still unexplored. Thus, here we present a benchmark study on UiO‐66 to evaluate the performance of SQM methods (PM6, PM7, GFN1‐xTB, GFN2‐xTB) against hybrid DFT (M06). We evaluate defective nodes, ligand exchange reactions, barrier heights, and host–guest interactions with metal nanoclusters. Despite some caveats, GFN1‐xTB on properly constrained models is the best SQM method across all studied properties. Under proper supervision, this protocol holds promise for application in exploratory high‐throughput screenings of Zr‐based MOF catalysts, subject to further refinement with more accurate methods.
Aseasonal Migration of a Northern Bottlenose Whale Provides Support for the Skin Molt Migration Hypothesis
Authors: Lefort K. J. , Storrie L. , Hussey N. E. , Ferguson S. H.
Published: January 2025

Why animals migrate is a fundamental question in biology. While the adaptive significance of some animal migrations is well understood (e.g., to find food, to pursue more‐favorable habitats, to spawn, or to give birth), others remain unknown. The adaptive significance of whale migration, for example, is unresolved and multiple hypotheses have been proposed to explain it. One recently proposed hypothesis that challenges the long‐standing “feeding‐breeding” whale migration model is a “feeding‐molting” model, where whales undertake latitudinal migrations to warmer waters to molt skin. In July 2019, we attached satellite‐tracking tags to northern bottlenose whales (Hyperoodon ampullatus) in the Canadian Arctic. One of these tagged whales completed a round‐trip movement between the Arctic and the temperate western North Atlantic, traveling 7281 km in 67 days (and spanning 27° of latitude). The whale was tagged in sea‐surface temperatures of ~4°C, but migrated south, reaching ~23°C surface waters, where it remained for 7 days before returning to the Arctic. The whale's occupancy of warm water was accompanied by a distinct shift in dive behavior, remaining near the ocean's surface. Four other tagged whales initiated similar long‐distance movements. We conclude that feeding or breeding were unlikely reasons for this movement and that northern bottlenose whales migrate to warmer latitudes to molt skin.
Evaluation and Optimization of Adjacent Tunnel Light Environment Scheme to Low Carbon
Authors: Yu Yingxia , Gu Haoyu , Liang Bin , Sun Qianyi , Zou Junjie
Published: January 2025

The distance between adjacent tunnels is relatively small, and the driver passes through the alternating light environment for a short time, which poses great safety hazards to driving. Guided by the low‐carbon concept, it is of great significance to find an optimized light environment solution that integrates safety, low‐carbon, and economy. Based on the adjacent tunnel between Shuigou River and Songjiawa, this article evaluates and optimizes traditional lighting schemes and sunshade schemes from the above three aspects. The results show that the overall uniformity of road surface luminance for both schemes is greater than 0.313, which meets the regulatory requirements and is a feasible solution. Compared to traditional lighting schemes, the sunshade scheme reduces carbon emissions by 37.23% throughout its lifecycle, and reduces the present value of its lifecycle costs by 19.51%. From a comprehensive evaluation of the life cycle, the sunshade scheme is superior to the traditional lighting scheme.
How many people in the US are eligible for and respond to checkpoint inhibitors: An empirical analysis
Authors: Haslam Alyson , Olivier Timothée , Prasad Vinay
Published: January 2025

In 2018, we estimated that eligibility for and response to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapies were 44% and 12%, respectively. Since these estimates were published, there have been additional approvals. We sought to provide updated estimates of the percentage of patients with advanced and/or metastatic cancers in the US who are eligible for and respond to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Using a cross‐sectional analysis (2011–2023) of US Food and Drug Administration approvals (FDA) and deaths reported by the American Cancer Society, we estimated the percentage of patients in the US with advanced or metastatic cancers who are eligible and respond to ICI therapies and the long‐term response of ICI drugs. Eleven ICI drugs have been approved for 20 tumor types in the metastatic setting. The estimated eligibility for ICIs increased from 1.54% in 2011 to 56.55% in 2023. The estimated response to ICIs increased from 0.14% in 2011 to 20.13% in 2023. The tumor types with the highest contribution to response and eligibility estimates in 2023 were non‐small‐cell lung cancer with PD‐L1 expression ≤50% and PD‐L1 expression >50%. Sixteen drug approvals had long‐term progression‐free survival (PFS) data available at 3 years follow‐up, and 2 had PFS data at 5 years follow‐up. Estimated eligibility and response have increased over time, but many people with advanced or metastatic cancers are currently ineligible for ICIs. Only about one‐fifth of the patients will respond. Given the wide range of uses, the cost implications of ICIs globally are large.
Identification of a Novel ATP7A Variant in a Chinese Boy With Developmental Delay and Epilepsy
Authors: Zhou Yun , Wu Junhua , Xu Jian , Tu Youquan , Huang Minghai , Fang Chunyan
Published: January 2025

Menkes disease (MD) is a rare X‐linked recessive syndrome that is caused by mutations in the ATP7A gene, which encodes the P‐type ATP enzyme. The ATP7A gene encodes 1500 amino acids and is expressed in a number of organs, including the brain, muscles, kidneys and lungs. ATP7A transports copper between cell membranes using energy generated by ATP hydrolysis. Patients with the pathogenic variant in the ATP7A gene exhibit a distinctive pattern of severe neurodegeneration, which is often accompanied by specific alterations in hair morphology. The clinical manifestations of MD have been attributed to the dysfunction of copper‐dependent enzymes. Here, we report a 7‐month‐old boy with MD associated with a novel variant of ATP7A (c.1965_1973del, p.Val656_Leu658del). Genetic testing revealed that both his mother and grandmother had identical ATP7A mutations, and we studied this family to better understand the natural history of this syndrome. In this article, we report for the first time the novel mutation in the ATP7A gene in a Chinese family. In our case, he suffers from simian line, developmental delay, epilepsy, hair changes (short, thin, thick, twisted, often light‐coloured), decreased muscle tone, joint relaxation, brain vessel distortion, low serum copper, ceruloplasmin, elevated lactate and an abnormal EEG. Because of its rarity, MD is easily to be misdiagnosed.
Knowledge, Behaviours, and Attitudes of Family Physicians and Residents About Autism Spectrum Disorder in Turkey: A Descriptive Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Erzurumluoğlu Fatmanur , Gümüştakım Raziye Şule , Kuş Celal , Arslan Semiha Cömertoğlu
Published: January 2025

Aim

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a growing social health issue. Primary healthcare institutions are where children most commonly seek help, and family physicians in primary care play a crucial role in early ASD detection. This study aims to assess the knowledge level, behaviours, and attitudes of family physicians and family medicine residents across Turkey, identify factors affecting their knowledge, and raise awareness among physicians.

Subject and Methods

This descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted between March and June 2022, with the participation of family medicine specialists, residents, and practicing physicians in Turkey. A 50‐question survey was administered face‐to‐face and digitally. The survey comprised 31 questions on sociodemographic information, factors influencing knowledge, attitudes and behaviours about ASD. The second part included a 19‐question “Knowledge about childhood autism among health workers” (KCAHW) questionnaire.

Results

The study included 392 physicians with a mean age of 32.8 ± 7.9; 60.7% were women. Among the participants, 50.3% were family medicine residents, 21.7% were family medicine specialists, 17.0% were family physicians and 11.0% were contracted family medicine residents. The physicians' mean KCAHW score was 14.1 ± 2.6. Screening for ASD and following ASD were significantly associated with the perception of knowledge level (p = 0.004; p = 0.028, respectively). A statistically significant relationship was found between paediatric rotation, education about ASD, patient follow‐ups and the KCAHW scores. Moreover, 98.2% of physicians believed children with ASD should receive special education, while 79.6% thought ASD carried a social stigma, and 52% believed an ASD diagnosis could lead to discrimination.

Conclusion

The study found that participants lacked knowledge about comorbidities with ASD, atypical presentations of ASD, and guiding individuals with ASD. However, having a paediatric rotation, receiving ASD training and following up on children with ASD were associated with increased knowledge levels. Screening for and following up on children with ASD also boosted physicians' self‐confidence.
Surfactant‐Free Stable Aqueous Shortwave Infrared Amphiphilic π‐Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles
Authors: Schiza Andriana , Nega Alkmini , Dimitrakopoulou‐Strauss Antonia , Gregoriou Vasilis G. , Chochos Christos L.
Published: January 2025

Novel amphiphilic π‐conjugated polymer nanoparticles tailored to efficiently absorb in the near‐infrared II (NIR‐II) region of the electromagnetic spectrum (>1000 nm) are presented. To achieve this, it is statistically introduced triethylene glycol substituted bithiophene moieties in various contents into a polymer backbone consisting of alternating thiophene and [1,2,5]thiadiazolo[3,4‐g]quinoxaline. Through systematic modifications of monomer ratios, four amphiphilic conjugated polymers are produced. The presence of hydrophilic side chain, like triethylene glycol monomethyl ether, enhanced the polymer's concentration in aqueous media of up to 470%, versus the D‐A thiophene and [1,2,5]thiadiazolo[3,4‐g]quinoxaline hydrophobic analog polymer, enabling the production of surfactant‐free conjugated polymer nanoparticles (CPNs) with higher concentrations (20.3 ppm maximum). Subsequently, the impact of this structural fine‐tuning on the optical properties of the polymers and their corresponding CPNs are meticulous investigated. In both cases, it is identified the minimum bithiophene content that maintained the absorption spectra above 1000 nm at significantly higher concentrations. So, these findings contribute to the extensive prospects of these materials in multiple fields including biomedical and optoelectronic applications.
Two‐Step Synthesis of a Pullulan‐Derived Polymeric Fluorophore with Metal Ion Sensing Abilities
Authors: Trifan Ioana‐Sabina , Biliuta Gabriela , Murariu Mioara , Coseri Sergiu
Published: January 2025

Metal ions, which are naturally occurring in food, soil, and water, are present in every part of the environment. Therefore, it is imperative to identify those using accessible and economical methods. In this study, a novel two‐step chemical modification process for pullulan, a natural polymer, is presented. This process yields a macromolecular derivative with considerably increased fluorescence, enabling efficient detection of specific metal ions. Furthermore, the recently synthesized polymer displays distinctly divergent characteristics in comparison with the native pullulan, a consequence of the undergone chemical reactions. These include the existence of fluorescence and solubility in organic solvents, which are lacking from the initial polymer. Subsequent to exhaustive thermal and spectral analysis, the synthesized polymer's capacity to discern disparate metal ions is investigated. The interaction between metal ions and the pullulan derivative is monitored to ascertain the extent of fluorescence quenching during this process. The synthesized polymer exhibits the greatest sensitivity to Fe3+ and Cu2+ among the various cations that are examined, while Pb2+ and the other ions demonstrate satisfactory results. The paper also discusses the underlying quenching mechanism and possible future applications.
Free Volume Space of Polymers as a New Functional Nanospace: Synthesis of Guest Polymers
Authors: Hirai Sayaka , Sakuma Tomoki , Tokura Yuki , Imai Hiroaki , Seishima Ryo , Shigeta Kohei , Okabayashi Koji , Oaki Yuya
Published: January 2025

Nanospace has been used as a specific field for syntheses and assemblies of molecules, polymers, and materials. Free volume space among polymer chains is related to their properties, such as permeation of gas and small molecules. However, the void has not been used as a functional nanospace in previous works. The present work shows synthesis of guest conductive polymers in free volume space of conventional synthetic resins and rubbers as a new nanospace. Vapor of heteroaromatic monomer and oxidative agent is diffused into the soft dynamic nanospace among the polymer chains under ambient pressure at low temperature. The oxidative polymerization provides the conductive polymers, such as polypyrrole (PPy), in the free volume space of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polypropylene (PP), silicone rubber (SR), and polyurethane rubber (PU). The ratio of the free volume decreases with the infiltration of the conductive polymers. The composites exhibit the improved mechanical and gas barrier properties. The rubbers containing PPy are used as mechanical‐stress sensors with both the conductivity and flexibility. The free volume space of resins and rubbers can be used as a new dynamic nanospace for synthesis of functional polymer composites.
Exploration of the Global Minimum and Conical Intersection with Bayesian Optimization
Authors: Somaki Riho , Inagaki Taichi , Hatanaka Miho
Published: January 2025

Conventional molecular geometry searches on a potential energy surface (PES) utilize energy gradients from quantum chemical calculations. However, replacing energy calculations with noisy quantum computer measurements generates errors in the energies, which makes geometry optimization using the energy gradient difficult. One gradient‐free optimization method that can potentially solve this problem is Bayesian optimization (BO). To use BO in geometry search, an acquisition function (AF), which involves an objective variable, must be defined suitably. In this study, we propose a strategy for geometry searches using BO and examine the appropriate AFs to explore two critical structures: the global minimum (GM) on the singlet ground state (S0) and the most stable conical intersection (CI) point between S0 and the singlet excited state. We applied our strategy to two molecules and located the GM and the most stable CI geometries with high accuracy for both molecules. We also succeeded in the geometry searches even when artificial random noises were added to the energies to simulate geometry optimization using noisy quantum computer measurements.
Wideband RCS Reduction of Microstrip Patch Antenna Using Quaternionic Metasurface
Authors: Patel Krunal
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a novel microstrip patch antenna with a quaternionic metasurface. The quaternionic metasurface is designed using a pair of polarization conversion metasurface unit cells and the other pair of artificial magnetic conductor unit cells. The designed metasurface is used to reduce the radar signature of a microstrip patch antenna. The designed quaternionic metasurface shows an overall RCS reduction bandwidth of 115.62% over the frequency range of 6.55–24.5 GHz and 10‐dB RCS reduction bandwidth of 65.86% over the frequency range of 8.3–16.45 GHz. The designed low RCS microstrip patch antenna using quaternionic metasurface shows overall RCS reduction bandwidth from 6.8 to 24.4 GHz (112.82%) as compared with the metallic plate and the reference patch for TE mode. It shows 10 dB RCS reduction bandwidth from 8.31 to 9.85 GHz (16.96%) and 12.38 to 16.34 GHz (27.58%) when compared with the reference patch for TE mode. Considering TM mode, the overall RCS reduction is obtained from 6.9 to 24 GHz (110.68%) as compared with the reference patch antenna. A total of 10 dB RCS reduction is observed over the frequency band of 8.4–9.89 GHz (16.29%) and 12.4–16.87 GHz (30.54%) as compared with the conventional patch antenna in the same plane. The low RCS patch antenna shows off remarkable in‐band and out‐of‐band RCS reduction. The proposed concept gives wide RCS reduction bandwidth that may not be obtained by the low RCS metasurface designed by only PCM or AMC unit cells.
A straightforward approach for 3D single‐shot arterial spin labeling‐based brain perfusion imaging: Preventing artifacts due to signal fluctuations
Authors: Zhu Dan , Xu Feng , Liu Dapeng , Qin Qin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The present work aims to evaluate the performance of three‐dimensional (3D) single‐shot stack‐of‐spirals turbo FLASH (SOS‐TFL) acquisition for pseudo‐continuous arterial spin labeling (PCASL) and velocity‐selective ASL (VSASL)–based cerebral blood flow (CBF) mapping, as well as VSASL‐based cerebral blood volume (CBV) mapping.

Methods

Digital phantom simulations were conducted for both multishot echo planar imaging and spiral trajectories with intershot signal fluctuations. PCASL‐derived CBF (PCASL‐CBF), VSASL‐derived CBF (VSASL‐CBF), and CBV (VSASL‐CBV) were all acquired using 3D multishot gradient and spin‐echo and SOS‐TFL acquisitions following background suppression. Both simulation and in vivo images were compared between multishot and single‐shot compressed sensing–regularized sensitivity encoding (CS‐SENSE) reconstructions.

Results

Artifacts were observed in both simulated multishot echo planar imaging and spiral readouts, as well as in in vivo multishot ASL perfusion images. A high correlation was found between the levels of signal fluctuations among interleaves and the severity of artifacts in both simulated and in vivo data. Image artifacts were more apparent in the inferior region of the brain, especially in CBF scans. These artifacts were effectively eliminated when single‐shot CS‐SENSE reconstruction was applied to the same data set.

Conclusion

ASL images obtained from 3D segmented gradient and spin‐echo or SOS‐TFL acquisitions can exhibit artifacts caused by signal fluctuations among different shots, which persist even after the application of background suppression pulses. In contrast, these artifacts were prevented when single‐shot CS‐SENSE reconstruction was applied to the same SOS‐TFL data set.
Simultaneous whole‐brain and cervical spine imaging at 7 T using a neurovascular head and neck coil with 8‐channel transceiver array and 56‐channel receiver array
Authors: Baskaran Divya , Ding Belinda , Chu Son , McElhinney Paul , Allwood‐Spiers Sarah , Williams Sydney N. , Muir Keith , Fullerton Natasha Eileen , Andrew Porter David , Gunamony Shajan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To develop a 7T neurovascular head and neck (NVHN) coil with an extended longitudinal coverage of the brain and cervical spine, with eight transceiver (TxRx) channels and 56 receive (Rx) channels for dynamic parallel‐transmit (pTx) applications.

Methods

A dual‐row transceiver array with six elements in the upper row and two elements in the lower row was designed using combined electromagnetic and circuit optimization and constructed. A 56Rx array covering the brain and cervical spine was designed and combined with the transceiver array. The performance of the 8TxRx56Rx NVHN coil such as , signal‐to‐noise ratio, and g‐factor were validated in phantom and in vivo studies and compared with an in‐house 8Tx64Rx head coil. High‐resolution in vivo images were acquired with the NVHN and head coil.

Results

The average in phantom while exciting the upper six channels and all eight channels are 43.45 nT/V and 45.80 nT/V, respectively, demonstrating that the available field is seamlessly distributed in the brain and/or cervical spine, depending on the chosen excitation. The 8TxRx56Rx NVHN coil increases the SNR in the cervical spine and central brain by a factor of 2.18 and 1.16, respectively, compared with the 8Tx64Rx head coil. Furthermore, it demonstrates similar 1/g‐factor performance for acceleration factors up to 5 × 5 compared with the head coil and provides diagnostic‐quality images of the brain and spinal cord in a single acquisition.

Conclusion

The extended longitudinal coverage of the NVHN coil promises to improve the clinical application of the current generation of pTx 7T MRI systems with 8Tx channels.
Impact of recyclate quality and functional barrier layers on the performance of LDPE in food packaging
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Smarak , Sharmin Nusrat , Radusin Tanja , Pettersen Marit Kvalvåg
Published: January 2025

Low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) is one of the most used polyolefins for food packaging applications. However, there are food safety concerns and challenges to recycle it back to food contact material. The present study compares the thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties, contact angle, color, and structural properties (Fourier transfer infrared) between virgin LDPE and two recycled qualities of LDPE, without and with functional barrier layers (ABA structure). In addition, migration analysis and food contact interaction study were also conducted. Thermal‐induced degradation resulting from chain scission was observed in the recycled LDPE. However, the thermal behavior of the recycled films was not affected by the quality of the recyclate. On the other hand, the quality of the recyclate had a significant effect on both the mechanical and barrier properties. The tensile strength and oxygen permeability of the films were affected by the type of recyclate. The addition of LDPE as functional barrier layers in the multilayer films increased the tensile strength, while high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) did not have any additional effect on the mechanical properties. The presence of HDPE did not have any effect as a barrier layer on the permeability, irrespective of the recyclate quality. No difference in the contact angle and structure was observed between the virgin and recycled LDPE. The effect of functional barrier layers on the migration of nonvolatile compounds was not conclusive from the chromatographic analysis. The simple odor/flavor evaluation indicated that cheese in contact with the recycled LDPE without functional barrier layers resulted in higher perception of chemical/plastic flavor compared to the virgin, and the odor was apparently lower when adding LDPE as a barrier layer, while HDPE had no additional effect.

Highlights

Multilayered films were prepared from virgin and two recycled low‐density polyethylene with and without a barrier layer.

The recyclate quality showed a significant effect on the mechanical and barrier properties.

Recyclate quality has a significant effect on the organoleptic properties of food.

Low‐density polyethylene as a functional barrier has a positive effect on the mechanical properties.

The barrier layers were effective against migration of volatiles from recyclates to food contact material.