bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
p‐Orbital Higher‐Order Topological Corner States in 2D Photonic Su–Schrieffer–Heeger Lattices
Authors: Bongiovanni Domenico , Hu Zhichan , Wang Ziteng , Wang Xiangdong , Jukić Dario , Hu Yi , Song Daohong , Morandotti Roberto , Chen Zhigang , Buljan Hrvoje
Published: July 2024

Higher‐order topological insulators (HOTIs) have attracted much attention in photonics partly because of the robust and highly confined corner modes they support. The growing availability of synthetic multi‐orbital platforms has recently stimulated research focus on the interplay between HOTIs and orbital degree of freedom. In this work, the topological properties of the two‐dimensional (2D) Su–Schrieffer–Heeger (SSH) model with ‐orbital degree of freedom are explored and ‐orbital topological corner states in a laser‐written photonic 2D SSH lattice are experimentally observed. It is shown that the ‐band 2D SSH model is a HOTI, where zero‐energy orbital corner states appear either as in‐gap states or as bound states in the continuum (BICs). Chiral symmetry is sufficient for topological protection of the in‐gap ‐orbital corner states, but not for their BIC counterparts because of the hybridization effect within the bulk continuum. The multipole chiral number is employed as an optimal topological invariant to characterize the ‐orbital HOTIs. The flexibility of tuning the orbital couplings offers an extra degree of manipulation for the BICs, which may be useful for the development of novel photonic devices.
After an initial Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome clinical diagnosis, molecular testing reveals variants for oculocutaneous albinism type 1B: A case report
Authors: Serrano‐González Joseline , Montes‐Rodríguez Ingrid , Renta Jessicca Y. , Rojas Ricardo , Cadilla Carmen L.
Published: July 2024

Background

Albinism is a heterogeneous condition in which patients present complete absence, reduction, or normal pigmentation in skin, hair and eyes in addition to ocular defects. One of the heterogeneous forms of albinism is observed in Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome (HPS) patients. HPS is characterized by albinism and hemorrhagic diathesis due to the absence of dense bodies in platelets.

Methods

In this report, we describe a case of a pair of Puerto Rican siblings with albinism that were clinically diagnosed with HPS during childhood. Since they did not harbor the founder changes in the HPS1 and HPS3 genes common in Puerto Ricans, as adults they wanted to know the type of albinism they had. We performed exome sequencing, validation by PCR, and cloning of PCR products followed by Sanger sequencing in the family members.

Results

We discovered no mutations that could explain an HPS diagnosis. Instead, we found the siblings were compound heterozygotes for 4 variants in the Tyrosinase gene: c.‐301C>T, c.140G>A (rs61753180; p.G47D), c.575C>A (rs1042602; p.S192Y), and c.1205G>A (rs1126809; p.R402Q). Our results show that the correct diagnosis for the siblings is OCA1B.

Conclusion

Our study shows the importance of molecular testing when diagnosing a rare genetic disorder, especially in populations were the disease prevalence is higher.
APA poll: Most adults say sports participation benefits their MH
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: July 2024

A new poll released by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) that examined the benefits of exercise and sports, reveals that the majority of respondents (57%) indicate that they participate in sports and that nearly all of them (84%) said that it benefits their mental health.
Special Issue on Advances in Porous Materials
Authors: Santos Hélder A.
Published: July 2024

This Special Issue is dedicated to current research activities on Advanced Porous Materials within the framework of “The NETPORE COST Action,” providing a collection of 12 outstanding contributions (four review papers and eight original research papers) from diverse research groups on the latest progresses regarding porous nano‐ and micro‐materials for diverse applications. The contributions herein address the impact of porous materials in basic science, batteries, biosensing, and translational and personalized medicine for the treatment of various diseases. Overall, this Special Issue is expected to provide important background and new knowledge on the latest advances in porous materials and their broad applications.
Nurses on shacking ground—A qualitative study of Danish dermatology and allergology nurses' experiences of relocation during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Trettin Bettina , Munk Nadja Trier , Egmose Britt , Agerskov Hanne
Published: July 2024

Aim

To investigate dermatology and allergology nurses' experiences of relocation from an outpatient clinic to a newly established COVID‐19 infectious disease ward.

Design

A phenomenological‐hermeneutical approach was applied.

Methods

Three focus groups with nurses were conducted from June to August 2020. Data were analysed in accordance with Ricoeur's theory of interpretation.

Results

The relocation represented a challenging period that involved uncertainty and evoked feelings of excitement and dedication towards the nursing profession. Nurses felt obligated to help; however, they also experienced that they did not have a say in the relocation. The placement on the infectious disease ward was characterized by adaptations in three areas: unfamiliar working environment, unfamiliar team competencies and inadequate nursing training. E‐learning training was experienced as insufficient, as it did not enhance the nurses' specific competencies or confidence in caring for patients with COVID‐19.

Conclusion

The relocation of nurses from an outpatient clinic to a new COVID‐19 infectious disease ward created a dilemma between nurses' sense of duty and their right to self‐determination. A prompt relocation into a newly established unfamiliar field caused frustrations because there were no unspoken rules to rely on. Managers should take nurses' experiences and perceptions under careful consideration and strive for more involvement in future scenarios.

Patient or Public Contributions

No patient or public contribution.
Considerations for specialized maternal–fetal care in the Somali‐American community
Authors: Eyerly‐Webb Stephanie A. , Jumale Shukri , Wolfe Ian , Maalimisaq Munira , Abdulkadir Jamila , Nisius Elizabeth , Barthel Emily F. , Juckel Nicholas , Dion Eric , Palmer Jill , Brock Clifton O. , Snowise Saul
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study describes the perceptions, personal and community experiences, and barriers to care of Somali‐American families regarding specialized maternal‐fetal care from their viewpoint.

Study Design

We conducted a semi‐structured focus group study of Somali‐American women (March 2023). We used qualitative analysis techniques to identify and report thematic findings.

Results

Fifty Somali‐American women were interviewed in focus groups. Five themes were identified: 1) adherence to religious belief (namely Islamic) was paramount, including devotions of predestination (e.g. divine will) and permissibility of fetal intervention, 2) participants valued consensus among clinicians and were guided by prior experiences, 3) confidence in the medical team was important, and included the need to communicate effectively with clinicians and concerns regarding the accuracy of diagnosis, 4) decisional factors prioritized saving the life of the baby, and 5) treatment considerations included reluctance to intervene before birth.

Conclusions

For the Somali‐American participants, their faith identity was central when considering their medical needs, including a hesitance to treat a baby before birth due to Islamic belief in divine will. In addition, these community members highlighted the importance of trustworthy interpretation, cultural competence, clinician consensus, prior pregnancy experiences as well as experiences of other community members as having an impact on their trust in their medical care and diagnosis.
Fabrication and characterization of human finger ridge‐inspired soft elastomeric pressure sensor with liquid metal‐embedded microchannels
Authors: Saxena Akshay , Patra Karali
Published: July 2024

Soft sensors are flexible and stretchable, and because of this, they can be used on a wide range of surfaces, regardless of their size or shape. Such sensors may have applications such as in human–robot interaction, healthcare, soft robotics and human motion detection, where they can sense their surroundings and provide information. In this work, a soft piezoresistive sensor inspired by human finger ridges has been fabricated with liquid metal (EGaIn) electrode‐filled embedded microchannels on elastomeric material (Ecoflex 0030) and characterized for a pressure range of 0 to 280 kPa at different compression rates. The sensitivity of the elastomeric sensor increases and the limit of detection (LOD) decreases with a reduction in compression rate. In this work, microchannels on soft and stretchable elastomers are cast on a metallic mold prepared using the micromilling method. This method reduces the complexity of developing microchannels on the soft material using the metallic mold. The sensor has microchannels with a cross‐section of 200 μm × 200 μm, an active sensing area of 10 × 10 mm2 and overall dimensions of 15 × 15 × 2 mm3. At a low compression rate, this sensor exhibits a maximum sensitivity of 0.126 kPa−1 and a high linearity of 0.98, a LOD of 68 Pa, a response time of 30 ms and stability for 10 000 consecutive cycles at 100 kPa load. The developed sensor was shown to successfully differentiate various objects (soft to hard) based on the feedback it received when it was deployed on the gripper of an industrial manipulator. © 2024 The Author(s). Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Electrochemical behavior of non‐functionalized and sulfonated melanins at different pH values
Authors: Brizuela Guerra Nayrim , Lima João Victor Morais , Paulin João Vitor , Nozella Natan Luiz , Boratto Miguel Henrique , Nogueira Gabriel Leonardo , Bufon Carlos César Bof , de Oliveira Graeff Carlos Frederico
Published: July 2024

Melanins are macromolecular pigments widely spread in many living organisms, with unique physical and chemical properties. Specifically, their conductive properties have drawn attention for applications in different devices; however, the electrochemical response is equally necessary for designing technologies in sustainable bioelectronics. In this sense, we report a comparative study of the redox electrochemical properties of non‐functionalized and sulfonated melanins in different pH environments. The electrochemical response was investigated using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, dielectric permittivity and AC/DC conductivity at pH 3, 5 and 7. The voltammetric currents were higher at low pH, in agreement with the known proton transport properties of melanins. The effect of pH on electrochemical properties was slightly more significant in non‐functionalized pigments. Melanins with a higher 5,6‐dihydroxyindole carboxylic acid/5,6‐dihydroxyindole ratio showed high DC current and low impedance. No significant difference was observed in the dielectric relaxation process between the different samples. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Implementation of paraprofessional behavior support coaching: A study of behavior concerns and interventions used in elementary schools
Authors: Fingerhut Joelle , Reddy Linda A. , Lekwa Adam , Dudek Christopher
Published: July 2024

Limited research has been conducted on coaching of paraprofessionals who serve students with disruptive behaviors. This study builds upon a randomized controlled trial investigating the intervention effects of the Behavior Support Coaching for Paraprofessionals model by examining the specific behavior concerns, coaching goals, and interventions used during behavior support coaching implementation. This study consists of 83 elementary school paraprofessionals who received behavior support coaching and served 163 elementary school students from 27 schools. Behavior support coaches used observational data to identify student behavior needs, set goals, prioritize intervention supports, and monitor progress toward goals. Results revealed inappropriate physical and verbal behaviors were most often targeted as behavior goals. Coaches and paraprofessionals and classroom teachers utilized a broad range of research‐based behavior interventions, with token economy and behavioral contract most often implemented. Results indicated significant change in observed student nonengagement and inappropriate physical behaviors when these are targeted as behavior goals. Implications of these findings for research and school practice are presented.
Influence of halogen substituents on sensitivity towards detonation of polycyclic nitroaromatic high‐energy molecules
Authors: Veljković Ivana S. , Đunović Aleksandra B. , Veljković Dušan Ž.
Published: July 2024

Analysis of molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) on the surface of high‐energy molecules is often used to predict detonation properties of these compounds since strong positive values of electrostatic potentials in the central molecular regions are related to the high sensitivity towards detonation. In this work, we combined bond dissociation energy (BDE) calculations with analysis of the MEPs to reveal the influence of the halogen substituents on the sensitivities towards detonation of a series of halogen‐substituted dinitronaphthalenes. Obtained results showed that halogen substituents affect detonation properties of the studied molecules by tilting the neighboring NO2 groups, which results in decreased stability of corresponding C–N bonds. In addition, halogen atoms affect the detonation properties of studied molecules by modifying the positive values of the electrostatic potentials in the central regions of the molecular surfaces.
Treatment of small as well as large declines in lung function enhances recovery to baseline in people with CF
Authors: Schechter Michael S. , Ostrenga Joshua S. , Cromwell Elizabeth A. , Ren Clement L. , Fink Aliza K. , Sanders D. B. , Morgan Wayne J.
Published: July 2024

Background

The benefit of antibiotic treatment of acute drops in FEV1 percent predicted (FEV1pp) has been clearly established, but data from the early 2000s showed inconsistent treatment. Further, there is no empirical evidence for what magnitude of drop is clinically significant.

Methods

We used data from the CF Foundation Patient Registry (CFFPR) from 2016 to 2019 to determine the association between treatment (any IV antibiotics, only oral or newly prescribed inhaled antibiotics, or no antibiotic therapy) following a decline of ≥5% from baseline FEV1pp and return to 100% baseline FEV1pp days using multivariable logistic regression including an interaction between the magnitude of decline and treatment category.

Results

Overall, 16,495 PWCF had a decline: 16.5% were treated with IV antibiotics, 25.0% non‐IV antibiotics, and 58.5% received no antibiotics. Antibiotic treatment was more likely for those with lower lung function, history of a positive PA culture, older age and larger FEV1 decline (p < 0.001). Treatment with IV antibiotics or oral/inhaled antibiotics was associated with a higher odds of recovery to baseline compared to no treatment across all levels of decline, including declines of 5%–10%.

Conclusions

A large proportion of acute drops in FEV1pp continue to be untreated, especially in younger patients and those with higher baseline lung function. Acute drops as small as 5% predicted are less likely to be recovered if antibiotic treatment is not prescribed. These findings suggest the need for more aggressive antimicrobial treatment of acute drops in FEV1, including those of a magnitude previously believed to be associated with self‐recovery.
Formulation of Hexamine‐based Fuels for Hybrid Rockets
Authors: Wingborg Niklas
Published: July 2024

Hybrid rockets have many attractive properties but have not yet been used in any high performance applications, mainly due to the low regression rate of the solid fuels used. In this work, a number of crystalline organic fillers were assessed with the aim to increase the regression rate and density of HTPB‐based fuels. Hexamine, which was the most promising filler, catalyses the HTPB/isocyanate crosslinking reaction leading to unacceptable short pot life. However, it was found that the pot life could be substantially prolonged by the use of less reactive brands of HTPB, added plasticizer and reduced NCO/OH ratio. Fuel formulations containing 75 % hexamine were easy to cast and the cured slabs were of good quality, free from bubbles or voids, with a density 30 % higher than plain HTPB. The tensile strength of the fuels were similar to typical solid propellants but the elasticity might need to be improved. Hexamine decompose at substantially lower temperature than HTPB. This, and its high density, makes it promising for use in hybrid rocket fuels.
Relevance of plasma lenvatinib concentrations and endogenous urinary cytochrome P450 3A activity biomarkers in clinical practice
Authors: Kumondai Masaki , Ogawa Reika , Hayashi Nagomi , Ishida Yurika , Oshikiri Hanae , Sato Yuji , Kikuchi Masafumi , Sato Yu , Sato Toshihiro , Maekawa Masamitsu , Mano Nariyasu
Published: July 2024

Lenvatinib (LEN), a multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitor used in various cancer treatments, is mainly metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) enzymes. The importance of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in patients administered LEN has been proposed. Although some biomarkers of endogenous CYP3A activity have been reported, their utility in dosage adjustments has not been well evaluated. This study investigated the correlation between plasma LEN concentrations and endogenous urinary CYP3A biomarkers in clinical practice. Concentrations of plasma LEN (N = 225) and CYP3A biomarkers (cortisol, 6β‐hydroxycortisol, deoxycholic acid, and 1β‐hydroxydeoxycholic acid) in urine (N = 214) from 20 patients (hepatocellular carcinoma, N = 6; thyroid cancer, N = 3; endometrial cancer, N = 8; and renal cell carcinoma, N = 3) collected for consultation for up to 1 year were evaluated using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Moreover, plasma trough LEN concentrations were predicted using a three‐compartment model with linear elimination for outpatients administered LEN before sample collection. Moderate correlations were observed between the quantified actual concentrations and the predicted trough concentrations of LEN, whereas there was no correlation with endogenous urinary CYP3A biomarkers. The utility of endogenous urinary CYP3A biomarkers could not be determined. However, TDM for outpatients administered orally available medicines may be predicted using a nonlinear mixed effect model (NONMEM). This study investigated the utility of endogenous urinary CYP3A biomarkers for personalized medicine and NONMEM for predicting plasma trough drug concentrations. These findings will provide important information for further clinical investigation and detailed TDM.
The call of the green: The role of green spaces in residential relocations across the life course in Germany
Authors: Dovbischuk Tetiana , Kley Stefanie
Published: July 2024

Research on the benefits of green living environments in urban settings has gained attention, but comprehensive comparisons across life course phases remain scarce. Furthermore, the importance of green spaces in the context of residential relocations has been underexplored. This study addresses this research gap by testing hypotheses derived from a general theory of well‐being generation and a three‐stage migration model, using data from a two‐wave population survey with 1856 randomly selected respondents in two major German cities. The results show that private, shared, and neighbourhood green spaces are relevant at the very beginning of relocation decision‐making processes, when individuals form their moving intentions. Private gardens deter families from considering and planning relocation, shared green yards have a similar effect across all subgroups, and satisfaction with the availability of green spaces in the neighbourhood decreases the probability of families and older adults considering and planning relocations. Our study highlights the importance of subjective assessments of neighbourhood green spaces, which have a more pronounced impact on forming relocation intentions compared to objective geocoded data. When estimating relocation behaviour in the second study wave, it appears that neither private nor public green spaces seem to have an influence. Recognizing the relevance of green spaces in residential relocations requires considering the longitudinal nature of the decision‐making process.
Atomic Layer Deposited Al1−xNixO: Low Contact Resistivity Hole‐Selective Contact for Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Hong Yang , Kuang Xuanfei , Chen Yongjuan , Xiao Yao , Liang Zongcun
Published: July 2024

Transition metal oxide (TMO)/crystalline silicon (c‐Si) junction‐based heterostructure crystalline silicon solar cells have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional silicon solar cells. However, the power conversion efficiency of c‐Si solar cells utilizing a nickel oxide (NiOx) hole transport layer (HTL) still lags behind those employing a fully developed TMO layer. This disparity may be attributed, at least in part, to inefficient hole extraction. Atomic layer deposited (ALD) aluminum nickel oxide (Al1−xNixO) films, synthesized using bis(N,N′‐di‐t‐butylacetamidinato)nickel(II) (NiAMD) and trimethylaluminum (TMA) as precursors, along with deionized water as a co‐reactant, have been observed to improve the contact properties with p‐type silicon compared to NiOx. Al1−xNixO films with varying Al concentrations (0.25, 0.44, and 0.87) are examined for their contact performance on p‐Si, resulting in the lowest contact resistivity of 85 mΩ cm2. Optimized Al1−xNixO films exhibit superior hole extraction capability from p‐type silicon, leading to a remarkable conversion efficiency of 19.35% in the constructed p‐Si/Al1−xNixO/Ag solar cell. These findings underscore the advantages of utilizing ALD Al1−xNixO as a hole‐selective contact for crystalline p‐Si solar cells.
Perspectives on benchmarking foundation models for network biology
Authors: Theodoris Christina V.
Published: July 2024

Transfer learning has revolutionized fields including natural language understanding and computer vision by leveraging large‐scale general datasets to pretrain models with foundational knowledge that can then be transferred to improve predictions in a vast range of downstream tasks. More recently, there has been a growth in the adoption of transfer learning approaches in biological fields, where models have been pretrained on massive amounts of biological data and employed to make predictions in a broad range of biological applications. However, unlike in natural language where humans are best suited to evaluate models given a clear understanding of the ground truth, biology presents the unique challenge of being in a setting where there are a plethora of unknowns while at the same time needing to abide by real‐world physical constraints. This perspective provides a discussion of some key points we should consider as a field in designing benchmarks for foundation models in network biology.
A Review of Recent Advancements and Perspectives of Nanotechnology in the Application of Biomedical Imaging and Instrumentation
Authors: Walke Santosh , Mandake Manoj , Naniwadekar Makarand
Published: July 2024

The development of imaging, diagnosis, prognosis and early detection of diseases has been greatly impacted by nanotechnology by enhancing already existing clinically applicable technologies. With the help of their capacity to alter nanoparticles for molecular‐level specificity, tissue‐specific diagnosis is made possible gratitude to the unique biophysical features of the nanoparticles that enable contrast augmentation will boost biomedical imaging. The unique prospect of multiplexing is possible by the fact that minute changes in the nanoparticles’ size or composition can have significant effects on their optical, magnetic, or electrical capabilities. This article examines nanotechnology's function in biomedical imaging. In this article, the fundamentals and applications of biomedical imaging, pharmaceutical application of microbial surfactants, intelligent drug delivery systems, and green metallic nanoparticle manufacturing are all examined. The biomedical applications comprising organic (carbon nanotubes, metal oxide and liposomes) and inorganic (metal oxide, metal) nanoparticles, and materials with nanopatterns in diagnostics, biosensing, and bioimaging devices, along with drug delivery systems, are the main topics of discussion. studies conducted in vitro and in vivo have demonstrated that different nanoparticles can be utilized to detect seizures early and precisely along with to treat them successfully. To decrease the possible toxicity and enable improved target specificity, respectively, more development in the synthesis and functionalization of adaptable nanotechnologies is required.
Comparison of cervical length measured by pelvic organ prolapse quantification system and sonography
Authors: Tondro Anamag Farhad , Noshad Iran Laleh , Mousavi Sanaz , Salehi‐Pourmehr Hanieh , Bastani Parvin
Published: July 2024

Background

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is associated with cervical elongation (CE). The presence of CE could affect the surgical approach for the patient. Cervical length measurement using the pelvic organ prolapse quantification system (POP‐Q) has poor accuracy in CE detection. We speculated that transvaginal sonography of the cervix could be an alternative method to assess the cervical length properly.

Aims

We aimed to compare cervical length based on POP‐Q examination with transvaginal sonography.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study of 99 patients with POP symptoms. POP‐Q staging was performed, and a gynaecologist determined cervical length. Moreover, all women underwent transvaginal sonography, and cervical length was reported. We used the inter‐class correlation coefficient and Bland–Altman plot to assess agreement. We used Spearman or Pearson correlation to determine the relationship between measurements difference and age, body mass index (BMI), total vaginal length, and parity.

Results

One‐sample t‐test showed a significant difference between cervical length measured by POP‐Q and sonography (mean difference 9.93, 95% CI 8.26–11.93, p value <.001). The inter‐class correlation coefficient was reported as 0.476 (95% CI 0.22–0.65). The Bland–Altman plot illustrated considerable disagreement. There was no statistically significant correlation between measurement discrepancy and age, BMI, total vaginal length, or parity.

Conclusions

There is a significant discrepancy between the POP‐Q system and sonography in cervical length measurement. Given the importance of CE detection in choosing an appropriate surgical approach, it seems reasonable to repeat the measurement using alternative methods like sonography.
Histone Methyltransferase SUV39H2 Supports Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Cell Metastasis by Regulation of SIRT1
Authors: You Jianqiang , Xue Haixiang , Chao Changjiang , Zhang Zhixuan , Tan Xiaoye , Wang Xiaoye , Li Haifeng
Published: July 2024

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignant tumor with high metastatic features originating from the nasopharynx. However, the underlying mechanism of Suppressor of variegation 3–9 homolog 2 (SUV39H2) in NPC remains poorly understood. RT‐qPCR was carried out to examine SUV39H2 and SIRT1 expression in NPC tissues and cells. Kaplan–Meier method was utilized to evaluate the association between SUV39H2 level and overall survival. The function of SUV39H2 and SIRT1 in NPC cell viability, metastasis, and apoptosis was tested through CCK‐8, transwell, and flow cytometry experiments. Here, it was uncovered that SUV39H2 level was augmented in NPC tissues and cells. Moreover, SUV39H2 expedited NPC cell viability, metastasis, and inhibited apoptosis, while SIRT1 addition reversed these impacts. Besides, SUV39H2 induced H3K9me3 enhancement to repress SIRT1 transcription via binding to SIRT1 promoter. Collectively, our results demonstrated upregulated SUV39H2 aggravated NPC tumorigenesis through SIRT1, which may offer a potential therapeutic target for NPC.
Darcy–Forchheimer modelling on unsteady MHD convection flow of a hybrid nanofluids (CNTs–Al2O3/H2O) over a stretching sheet
Authors: Anand Kumar S. Abhilash , Sreedhar S. , Gayathri M. , Krishna M. Veera
Published: July 2024

The present article provides a detailed analysis of the Darcy–Forchheimer flow of hybrid nanofluid past a porous stretching sheet. The carbon nanotubes and Al2O3 (aluminium oxide) are used to synthesize hybrid nanofluid. The nanoparticles of carbon nanotubes have attained fame to enhance the thermo‐physical features of fluid particles. The inclusion of nanoparticles of multi‐wall carbon nanotube (MWCNTs)/single‐wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and alumina in water past a stretching sheet by the magnetic field, thermal radiation, heat dissipation as well as slip conditions is computationally explored. The hybrid nanofluid flow experiences the unsteady non‐Darcy relation across two‐dimensional stretchable surface. At first, the governing partial differential equations of the projected modelling are in non‐dimensional and to attain the ordinary differential equations via the appropriate dimensionless similarity transformations and are then computationally explored by bvp4c MATLAB solver. The pertinent parameters of the associated model are demonstrated by the graphical profiles and tables. Furthermore, magnetic parameter, porosity parameter and inertia coefficient parameter tend to retards the flow pattern of hybrid nanofluid. The SWCNTs‐alumina/water experiences more resistive force as compared to the MWCNTs‐alumina/water. Higher values of Forchheimer parameter retards velocity profile as MWCNTs‐alumina/water flow overshoots SWCNTs‐/alumina water. The enhancement of volume fraction of MWCNTs and SWCNTs enhanced the rate of heat transfer throughout the fluid region.
Orthotropic rotational semiconductor material with piezo‐photothermal plasma waves with moisture plasma diffusion and laser pulse
Authors: Adel M. , Lotfy Khaled , Yadav Anand Kumar , Ibrahim E.
Published: July 2024

The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of rotation field on a semiconductor material with general photo‐piezo‐thermo‐elastic characteristics. The primary goal is to analyze how the semiconductor behaves under and laser pulse effect. The research assumes that the piezo‐semiconductor medium being studied is uniform and has consistent orthotropic properties when it is subjected to photo‐thermal excitation according to moisture plasma diffusion processes. The piezoelectric phenomenon's impact can be determined by employing Gauss's law of electrostatics. Several important variables, including temperature distribution field, carrier density from both types of moisture, electric potential displacement, and stress components, have been precisely calculated using the normal mode approach. The study uses graphical representation to show how the physical field distribution changes with different times, rotation parameters, and thermal conductivity. The findings indicate that various factors, including time, thermal coupling parameter, and rotation field, have a significant impact on the amplitude of the distribution profile, and align with the observed physical outcomes. These factors must be taken into consideration when analyzing and designing piezo‐semiconductors.
Exact moduli spaces for $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2, D = 5 freely acting orbifolds
Authors: Gkountoumis George , Hull Chris , Vandoren Stefan
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We use freely acting asymmetric orbifolds of type IIB string theory to construct a class of theories in five dimensions with eight supercharges whose moduli spaces for vector multiplets and hypermultiplets can be determined exactly. We argue that no quantum corrections to these moduli spaces arise. We focus on examples in which all moduli are in the NS-NS sector, while all fields from the R-R sector become massive. The full symmetry group of the moduli space is then determined by the subgroup of the T-duality group that survives the orbifold action. We illustrate this for freely acting orbifolds of type IIB string theory on T5 with 0, 1 or 2 hypermultiplets.
S-move matrix in the NS sector of N = 1 super Liouville field theory
Authors: Apresyan Elena , Sarkissian Gor
Published: July 2024

Abstract

In this paper we calculate matrix of modular transformations of the one-point toric conformal blocks in the Neveu-Schwarz sector of N = 1 super Liouville field theory. For this purpose we use explicit expression for this matrix as integral of product of certain elements of fusion matrix. This integral is computed using the chain of integral identities for supersymmetric hyperbolic gamma functions derived by the degeneration of the integrals of parafermionic elliptic gamma functions.
The Manin–Peyre conjecture for smooth spherical Fano threefolds
Authors: Blomer Valentin , Brüdern Jörg , Derenthal Ulrich , Gagliardi Giuliano
Published: July 2024

The Manin–Peyre conjecture is established for smooth spherical Fano threefolds of semisimple rank one and type N. Together with the previously solved case T and the toric cases, this covers all types of smooth spherical Fano threefolds. The case N features a number of structural novelties; most notably, one may lose regularity of the ambient toric variety, the height conditions may contain fractional exponents, and it may be necessary to exclude a thin subset with exceptionally many rational points from the count, as otherwise Manin’s conjecture in its original form would turn out to be incorrect.
Use of diabetes technology in children
Authors: Schoelwer Melissa J. , DeBoer Mark D. , Breton Marc D.
Published: July 2024

Children with type 1 diabetes and their caregivers face numerous challenges navigating the unpredictability of this complex disease. Although the burden of managing diabetes remains significant, new technology has eased some of the load and allowed children with type 1 diabetes to achieve tighter glycaemic management without fear of excess hypoglycaemia. Continuous glucose monitor use alone improves outcomes and is considered standard of care for paediatric type 1 diabetes management. Similarly, automated insulin delivery (AID) systems have proven to be safe and effective for children as young as 2 years of age. AID use improves not only blood glucose levels but also quality of life for children with type 1 diabetes and their caregivers and should be strongly considered for all youth with type 1 diabetes if available and affordable. Here, we review key data on the use of diabetes technology in the paediatric population and discuss management issues unique to children and adolescents.
A multi-biomarker micronucleus assay using imaging flow cytometry
Authors: Harte Danielle S. G. , Lynch Anthony M. , Verma Jatin , Rees Paul , Filby Andrew , Wills John W. , Johnson George E.
Published: July 2024

Genetic toxicity testing assesses the potential of compounds to cause DNA damage. There are many genetic toxicology screening assays designed to assess the DNA damaging potential of chemicals in early drug development aiding the identification of promising drugs that have low-risk potential for causing genetic damage contributing to cancer risk in humans. Despite this, in vitro tests generate a high number of misleading positives, the consequences of which can lead to unnecessary animal testing and/or the abandonment of promising drug candidates. Understanding chemical Mode of Action (MoA) is vital to identifying the true genotoxic potential of substances and, therefore, the risk translation into the clinic. Here we demonstrate a simple, robust protocol for staining fixed, human-lymphoblast p53 proficient TK6 cells with antibodies against ɣH2AX, p53 and pH3S28 along with DRAQ5™ DNA staining that enables analysis of un-lysed cells via microscopy approaches such as imaging flow cytometry. Here, we used the Cytek® Amnis® ImageStream®X Mk II which provides a high-throughput acquisition platform with the sensitivity of flow cytometry and spatial morphological information associated with microscopy. Using the ImageStream manufacturer’s software (IDEAS® 6.2), a masking strategy was developed to automatically detect and quantify micronucleus events (MN) and characterise biomarker populations. The gating strategy developed enables the generation of a template capable of automatically batch processing data files quantifying cell-cycle, MN, ɣH2AX, p53 and pH3 populations simultaneously. In this way, we demonstrate how a multiplex system enables DNA damage assessment alongside MN identification using un-lysed cells on the imaging flow cytometry platform. As a proof-of-concept, we use the tool chemicals carbendazim and methyl methanesulphonate (MMS) to demonstrate the assay’s ability to correctly identify clastogenic or aneugenic MoAs using the biomarker profiles established.
Automated classification of brain MRI reports using fine-tuned large language models
Authors: Kanzawa Jun , Yasaka Koichiro , Fujita Nana , Fujiwara Shin , Abe Osamu
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of fine-tuned large language models (LLM) in classifying brain MRI reports into pretreatment, posttreatment, and nontumor cases.

Methods

This retrospective study included 759, 284, and 164 brain MRI reports for training, validation, and test dataset. Radiologists stratified the reports into three groups: nontumor (group 1), posttreatment tumor (group 2), and pretreatment tumor (group 3) cases. A pretrained Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers Japanese model was fine-tuned using the training dataset and evaluated on the validation dataset. The model which demonstrated the highest accuracy on the validation dataset was selected as the final model. Two additional radiologists were involved in classifying reports in the test datasets for the three groups. The model’s performance on test dataset was compared to that of two radiologists.

Results

The fine-tuned LLM attained an overall accuracy of 0.970 (95% CI: 0.930–0.990). The model’s sensitivity for group 1/2/3 was 1.000/0.864/0.978. The model’s specificity for group1/2/3 was 0.991/0.993/0.958. No statistically significant differences were found in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity between the LLM and human readers (p ≥ 0.371). The LLM completed the classification task approximately 20–26-fold faster than the radiologists. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for discriminating groups 2 and 3 from group 1 was 0.994 (95% CI: 0.982–1.000) and for discriminating group 3 from groups 1 and 2 was 0.992 (95% CI: 0.982–1.000).

Conclusion

Fine-tuned LLM demonstrated a comparable performance with radiologists in classifying brain MRI reports, while requiring substantially less time.
DNA methylation patterns in the frontal lobe white matter of multiple system atrophy, Parkinson’s disease, and progressive supranuclear palsy: a cross-comparative investigation
Authors: Murthy Megha , Fodder Katherine , Miki Yasuo , Rambarack Naiomi , De Pablo Fernandez Eduardo , Pihlstrøm Lasse , Mill Jonathan , Warner Thomas T. , Lashley Tammaryn , Bettencourt Conceição
Published: July 2024

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare neurodegenerative disease characterized by neuronal loss and gliosis, with oligodendroglial cytoplasmic inclusions (GCIs) containing α-synuclein being the primary pathological hallmark. Clinical presentations of MSA overlap with other parkinsonian disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), posing challenges in early diagnosis. Numerous studies have reported alterations in DNA methylation in neurodegenerative diseases, with candidate loci being identified in various parkinsonian disorders including MSA, PD, and PSP. Although MSA and PSP present with substantial white matter pathology, alterations in white matter have also been reported in PD. However, studies comparing the DNA methylation architectures of white matter in these diseases are lacking. We therefore aimed to investigate genome-wide DNA methylation patterns in the frontal lobe white matter of individuals with MSA (n = 17), PD (n = 17), and PSP (n = 16) along with controls (n = 15) using the Illumina EPIC array, to identify shared and disease-specific DNA methylation alterations. Genome-wide DNA methylation profiling of frontal lobe white matter in the three parkinsonian disorders revealed substantial commonalities in DNA methylation alterations in MSA, PD, and PSP. We further used weighted gene correlation network analysis to identify disease-associated co-methylation signatures and identified dysregulation in processes relating to Wnt signaling, signal transduction, endoplasmic reticulum stress, mitochondrial processes, RNA interference, and endosomal transport to be shared between these parkinsonian disorders. Our overall analysis points toward more similarities in DNA methylation patterns between MSA and PD, both synucleinopathies, compared to that between MSA and PD with PSP, which is a tauopathy. Our results also highlight several shared DNA methylation changes and pathways indicative of converging molecular mechanisms in the white matter contributing toward neurodegeneration in all three parkinsonian disorders.
Anti-VEGF therapy for the long-term management of diabetic macular edema: a treat-to-target strategy based on macular morphology
Authors: Nakao Shintaro , Kusuhara Sentaro , Murakami Tomoaki
Published: July 2024

In an aging population, the prevalence and burden of diabetes mellitus, diabetic retinopathy, and vision-threatening diabetic macular edema (DME) are only expected to rise around the world. Similarly to other complications of diabetes mellitus, DME requires long-term management. This article aims to review the current challenges associated with the long-term management of DME, opportunities to improve outcomes for patients, and to develop a treat-to-target strategy based on macular morphology. At present, intravitreal anti–vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy is the standard of care for the management of DME; however, best-achievable vision outcomes with treatment are reliant on frequent injections and close monitoring, which are difficult to maintain in current clinical practice because of the burden this imposes on patients. Achieving and maintaining good vision with treatment are the most important factors for patients with DME. Landmark trials have shown that vision gains with anti-VEGF therapy are typically accompanied by anatomical improvements (e.g., reductions in retinal thickness); therefore, multimodal imaging measures of macular morphology are often used in patients with DME to guide real-world treatment decisions. We would like to propose a hypothetical treat-to-target algorithm to guide physicians on treatment strategies for the long-term management of DME. Alternative measures of retinal fluid (e.g., persistence, stability, location) may be stronger predictors of visual acuity in DME, although further research is required to confirm whether alternate quantifiable biomarkers such as subretinal fluid and intraretinal fluid volumes can be used as a biomarker of clinical improvement. Identifying novel biomarkers and treatments that target neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration, improving patient-physician communication around treatment adherence, and using treat-to-target measures may help to ensure that the long-term benefits of treatment are realized.
Enhancing damage prediction in bulk metal forming through machine learning-assisted parameter identification
Authors: Gerlach Jan , Schulte Robin , Schowtjak Alexander , Clausmeyer Till , Ostwald Richard , Tekkaya A. Erman , Menzel Andreas
Published: July 2024

The open-source parameter identification tool ADAPT (A diversely applicable parameter identification Tool) is integrated with a machine learning-based approach for start value prediction in order to calibrate a Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman (GTN) and a Lemaitre damage model. As representative example case-hardened steel 16MnCrS5 is elaborated. An artificial neural network (ANN) is initially trained by using load–displacement curves derived from simulations of a boundary value problem—instead of using data generated for homogeneous states of deformation at material point or one-element level—with varying material parameter combinations. The ANN is then employed so as to predict sets of material parameters that already provide close solutions to the experiment. These predicted parameter sets serve as starting values for a subsequent multi-objective parameter identification by using ADAPT. ADAPT allows for the consideration of input data from multiple scales, including integral data such as load–displacement curves, full-field data such as displacement and strain fields, and high-resolution experimental void data at the micro-scale. The influence of each data set on prediction quality is analyzed. Using various types of input data introduces additional information, enhancing prediction accuracy. The validation is carried out with respect to experimental void measurements of forward rod extruded parts. The results demonstrate, by incorporating void measurements in the optimization process, that it is possible to improve the quantitative prediction of ductile damage in the sense of void area fractions by factor 28 in forward rod extrusion.
Submersible voltammetric sensing probe for rapid and extended remote monitoring of opioids in community water systems
Authors: Zhou Jiachi , Ding Shichao , Sandhu Samar S. , Chang An-Yi , Taechamahaphan Anubhap , Gudekar Shipra , Wang Joseph
Published: July 2024

The intensifying global opioid crisis, majorly attributed to fentanyl (FT) and its analogs, has necessitated the development of rapid and ultrasensitive remote/on-site FT sensing modalities. However, current approaches for tracking FT exposure through wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) are unadaptable, time-consuming, and require trained professionals. Toward developing an extended in situ wastewater opioid monitoring system, we have developed a screen-printed electrochemical FT sensor and integrated it with a customized submersible remote sensing probe. The sensor composition and design have been optimized to address the challenges for extended in situ FT monitoring. Specifically, ZIF-8 metal–organic framework (MOF)-derived mesoporous carbon (MPC) nanoparticles (NPs) are incorporated in the screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) transducer to improve FT accumulation and its electrocatalytic oxidation. A rapid (10 s) and sensitive square wave voltammetric (SWV) FT detection down to 9.9 µgL−1 is thus achieved in aqueous buffer solution. A protective mixed-matrix membrane (MMM) has been optimized as the anti-fouling sensor coating to mitigate electrode passivation by FT oxidation products and enable long-term, intermittent FT monitoring. The unique MMM, comprising an insulating polyvinyl chloride (PVC) matrix and carboxyl-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNT-COOH) as semiconductive fillers, yielded highly stable FT sensor operation (> 95% normalized response) up to 10 h in domestic wastewater, and up to 4 h in untreated river water. This sensing platform enables wireless data acquisition on a smartphone via Bluetooth. Such effective remote operation of submersible opioid sensing probes could enable stricter surveillance of community water systems toward timely alerts, countermeasures, and legal enforcement.

Graphical abstract