bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Demonstration of In‐Memory Computing in a Ferrofluid System
Authors: Crepaldi Marco , Mohan Charanraj , Garofalo Erik , Adamatzky Andrew , Szaciłowski Konrad , Chiolerio Alessandro
Published: March 2023

Magnetic fluids are excellent candidates for several important research fields including energy harvesting, biomedical applications, soft robotics, and exploration. However, notwithstanding relevant advancements such as shape reconfigurability, that have been demonstrated, there is no evidence for their computing capability, including the emulation of synaptic functions, which requires complex non‐linear dynamics. Here, it is experimentally demonstrated that a Fe3O4 water‐based ferrofluid (FF) can perform electrical analogue computing and be programmed using quasi direct current (DC) signals and read at radio frequency (RF) mode. Features have been observed in all respects attributable to a memristive behavior, featuring both short and long‐term information storage capacity and plasticity. The colloid is capable of classifying digits of a 8 × 8 pixel dataset using a custom in‐memory signal processing scheme, and through physical reservoir computing by training a readout layer. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of in‐memory computing using an amorphous FF system in a liquid aggregation state. This work poses the basis for the exploitation of a FF colloid as both an in‐memory computing device and as a full‐electric liquid computer thanks to its fluidity and the reported complex dynamics, via probing read‐out and programming ports.
Colorful Electrochromic Displays with High Visual Quality Based on Porous Metamaterials
Authors: Li Yaowu , Sun Peiyan , Chen Jian , Zha Xiuling , Tang Xueqing , Chen Zhiwei , Zhang Yanan , Cong Shan , Geng Fengxia , Zhao Zhigang
Published: March 2023

The introduction of metamaterials into electrochromic (EC) displays has recently inspired a great breakthrough in the EC field, as this can offer a variety of new attractive features, from a very wide gamut of colors to very fast switching times. However, such metamaterial‐based EC displays still face significant constraints when developing from single electrodes to full devices, because other supportive components in devices, such as counter electrodes and electrolytes, significantly affect light propagation and the subsequent perceived color quality in metamaterial‐based EC devices. Herein, a new, cost‐effective device design structured around a new type of porous metamaterial is reported to circumvent the critical problem in metamaterial‐based EC displays. Owing to its unique design, the metamaterial‐based EC device achieves good color quality with no drop in brightness or shift in color chromaticity when compared with a single electrode. Moreover, the porous‐metamaterial‐based EC device can exhibit non‐iridescence and be viewed from a wide range of angles (5°–85°) and has fast switching response (2.4 and 2.5 s for coloration and bleaching, respectively), excellent cycling performance (at least 2000 cycles), and extremely low power consumption (4.0 mW cm−2).
Doping by Design: Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance of GeSe Alloys Through Metavalent Bonding
Authors: Yu Yuan , Zhou Chongjian , Ghosh Tanmoy , Schön Carl‐Friedrich , Zhou Yiming , Wahl Sophia , Raghuwanshi Mohit , Kerres Peter , Bellin Christophe , Shukla Abhay , Cojocaru‐Mirédin Oana , Wuttig Matthias
Published: March 2023

Doping is usually the first step to tailor thermoelectrics. It enables precise control of the charge‐carrier concentration and concomitant transport properties. Doping should also turn GeSe, which features an intrinsically a low carrier concentration, into a competitive thermoelectric. Yet, elemental doping fails to improve the carrier concentration. In contrast, alloying with Ag–V–VI2 compounds causes a remarkable enhancement of thermoelectric performance. This advance is closely related to a transition in the bonding mechanism, as evidenced by sudden changes in the optical dielectric constant ε∞, the Born effective charge, the maximum of the optical absorption ε2(ω), and the bond‐breaking behavior. These property changes are indicative of the formation of metavalent bonding (MVB), leading to an octahedral‐like atomic arrangement. MVB is accompanied by a thermoelectric‐favorable band structure featuring anisotropic bands with small effective masses and a large degeneracy. A quantum‐mechanical map, which distinguishes different types of chemical bonding, reveals that orthorhombic GeSe employs covalent bonding, while rhombohedral and cubic GeSe utilize MVB. The transition from covalent to MVB goes along with a pronounced improvement in thermoelectric performance. The failure or success of different dopants can be explained by this concept, which redefines doping rules and provides a “treasure map” to tailor p‐bonded chalcogenides.
Chiral Metafilms and Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering for Enantiomeric Discrimination of Helicoid Nanoparticles
Authors: Kartau Martin , Skvortsova Anastasia , Tabouillot Victor , Chaubey Shailendra K , Bainova Polina , Kumar Rahul , Burtsev Vasilii , Svorcik Vaclav , Gadegaard Nikolaj , Im Sang Won , Urbanova Marie , Lyutakov Oleksiy , Kadodwala Malcolm , Karimullah Affar S.
Published: March 2023

Chiral nanophotonic platforms provide a means of creating near fields with both enhanced asymmetric properties and intensities. They can be exploited for optical measurements that allow enantiomeric discrimination at detection levels > 6 orders of magnitude than is achieved with conventional chirally sensitive spectroscopic methods based on circularly polarized light. Here it is shown that surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is such a local probe of the near field environment. It is used to achieve enantiomeric discrimination of chiral helicoid nanoparticles deposited on left‐ and right‐handed enantiomorphs of a chiral metafilm using an achiral molecule as a probe. “Hotter” electromagnetic (EM) hotspots are created for matched combinations of helicoid and metafilms (left‐left and right‐right), while mismatched combinations leads to significantly “cooler” electromagnetic hotspots. This large enantiomeric dependency on hotspot intensity is readily detected using SERS with the aid of an achiral Raman reporter molecule. In effect SERS is used to distinguish between the different EM environments of the plasmonic diastereomers produced by mixing chiral nanoparticles and metafilms. The work demonstrates that by combining chiral nanophotonic platforms with established SERS strategies new avenues in ultrasensitive chiral detection can be opened.
A Goldilocks Approach to Water Management: Hydrochannel Porous Transport Layers for Unitized Reversible Fuel Cells
Authors: Komini Babu Siddharth , Yilmaz Abdurrahman , Uddin Md Aman , LaManna Jacob , Baltic Eli , Jacobson David L. , Pasaogullari Ugur , Spendelow Jacob S.
Published: March 2023

This work presents a novel porous transport layer (PTL), the hydrochannel PTL, that enables improved water management and record high round trip efficiency in unitized reversible fuel cells (URFCs). URFCs require rapid transport of O2 and H2O to provide high performance in both fuel cell and water electrolyzer operation, but cell design is complicated by conflicting water management requirements: electrolyzers perform best with high liquid water saturation, whereas fuel cells perform best when liquid water saturation is as low as possible while still maintaining effective ionomer hydration. The hydrochannel PTL circumvents this obstacle by providing hydrophilic channels for water transport through an otherwise hydrophobic PTL, enabling optimal performance in both fuel cell and water electrolyzer modes. Neutron radiography measurements of water content in both operating modes confirm that the hydrochannel PTL enables high performance due to its improved water management capabilities.
Coaching the coach: A randomized controlled study of a novel curriculum for procedural coaching during intubation
Authors: Miller Kelsey A. , Auerbach Marc , Bin Steven S. , Donoghue Aaron , Kerrey Benjamin T. , Mittiga Matthew R. , D'Ambrosi Gabrielle , Monuteaux Michael C. , Marchese Ashley , Nagler Joshua
Published: March 2023

Background

Videolaryngoscopy allows real‐time procedural coaching during intubation. This study sought to develop and assess an online curriculum to train pediatric emergency medicine attending physicians to deliver procedural coaching during intubation.

Methods

Curriculum development consisted of semistructured interviews with 12 pediatric emergency medicine attendings with varying levels of airway expertise analyzed using a constructivist grounded theory approach. Following development, the curriculum was implemented and assessed through a multicenter randomized controlled trial enrolling participants in one of three cohorts: the coaching module, unnarrated video recordings of intubations, and a module on ventilator management. Participants completed identical pre and post assessments asking them to select the correct coaching feedback and provided reactions for qualitative thematic analysis.

Results

Content from interviews was synthesized into a video‐enhanced 15‐min online coaching module illustrating proper technique for intubation and strategies for procedural coaching. Eighty‐seven of 104 randomized physicians enrolled in the curriculum; 83 completed the pre and post assessments (80%). The total percentage correct did not differ between pre and post assessments for any cohort. Participants receiving the coaching module demonstrated improved performance on patient preparation, made more suggestions for improvement, and experienced a greater increase in confidence in procedural coaching. Qualitative analysis identified multiple benefits of the module, revealed that exposure to video recordings without narration is insufficient, and identified feedback on suggestions for improvement as an opportunity for deliberate practice.

Conclusions

This study leveraged clinical and educational digital technology to develop a curriculum dedicated to the content expertise and coaching skills needed to provide feedback during intubations performed with videolaryngoscopy. This brief curriculum changed behavior in simulated coaching scenarios but would benefit from additional support for deliberate practice.
Technology‐enhanced simulation in emergency medicine: Updated systematic review and meta‐analysis 1991–2021
Authors: Hildreth Amy F. , Maggio Lauren A. , Iteen Alex , Wojahn Amanda L. , Cook David A. , Battista Alexis
Published: March 2023

Background

Over the past decade, the use of technology‐enhanced simulation in emergency medicine (EM) education has grown, yet we still lack a clear understanding of its effectiveness. This systematic review aims to identify and synthesize studies evaluating the comparative effectiveness of technology‐enhanced simulation in EM.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, ERIC, Web of Science, and Scopus to identify EM simulation research that compares technology‐enhanced simulation with other instructional modalities. Two reviewers screened articles for inclusion and abstracted information on learners, clinical topics, instructional design features, outcomes, cost, and study quality. Standardized mean difference (SMD) effect sizes were pooled using random effects.

Results

We identified 60 studies, enrolling at least 5279 learners. Of these, 23 compared technology‐enhanced simulation with another instructional modality (e.g., living humans, lecture, small group), and 37 compared two forms of technology‐enhanced simulation. Compared to lecture or small groups, we found simulation to have nonsignificant differences for time skills (SMD 0.33, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.23 to 0.89, n = 3), but a large, significant effect for non–time skills (SMD 0.82, 95% CI 0.18 to 1.46, n = 8). Comparison of alternative types of technology‐enhanced simulation found favorable associations with skills acquisition, of moderate magnitude, for computer‐assisted guidance (compared to no computer‐assisted guidance), for time skills (SMD 0.50, 95% CI −1.66 to 2.65, n = 2) and non–time skills (SMD 0.57, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.80, n = 6), and for more task repetitions (time skills SMD 1.01, 95% CI 0.16 to 1.86, n = 2) and active participation (compared to observation) for time skills (SMD 0.85, 95% CI 0.25 to 1.45, n = 2) and non–time skills (SMD 0.33 95% CI 0.08 to 0.58, n = 3).

Conclusions

Technology‐enhanced simulation is effective for EM learners for skills acquisition. Features such as computer‐assisted guidance, repetition, and active learning are associated with greater effectiveness.
Free water imaging of the cholinergic system in dementia with Lewy bodies and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Schumacher Julia , Ray Nicola J. , Hamilton Calum A. , Bergamino Maurizio , Donaghy Paul C. , Firbank Michael , Watson Rosie , Roberts Gemma , Allan Louise , Barnett Nicola , O'Brien John T. , Thomas Alan J. , Taylor John‐Paul
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION

Degeneration of cortical cholinergic projections from the nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM) is characteristic of dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Alzheimer's disease (AD), whereas involvement of cholinergic projections from the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) to the thalamus is less clear.

METHODS

We studied both cholinergic projection systems using a free water‐corrected diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) model in the following cases: 46 AD, 48 DLB, 35 mild cognitive impairment (MCI) with AD, 38 MCI with Lewy bodies, and 71 controls.

RESULTS

Free water in the NBM‐cortical pathway was increased in both dementia and MCI groups compared to controls and associated with cognition. Free water along the PPN‐thalamus tract was increased only in DLB and related to visual hallucinations. Results were largely replicated in an independent cohort.

DISCUSSION

While NBM‐cortical projections degenerate early in AD and DLB, the thalamic cholinergic input from the PPN appears to be more selectively affected in DLB and might associate with visual hallucinations.

Highlights

Free water in the NBM‐cortical cholinergic pathways is increased in AD and DLB.

NBM‐cortical pathway integrity is related to overall cognitive performance.

Free water in the PPN‐thalamus cholinergic pathway is only increased in DLB, not AD.

PPN‐thalamus pathway integrity might be related to visual hallucinations in DLB.
Evaluation of the activity of natural phenolic antioxidants, extracted from industrial coffee residues, on the stability of poly(1,4‐butylene succinate) formulations
Authors: Bianchi Stefano , Marchese Paola , Vannini Micaela , Sisti Laura , Tassoni Annalisa , Ferri Maura , Mallegni Norma , Cinelli Patrizia , Celli Annamaria
Published: March 2023

In this work, the evaluation of the antioxidant activity of natural phenolic compounds is performed and compared to that of a conventional antioxidative agent. Phenolic molecules, extracted from industrial processing coffee residues, are added to a matrix of poly(1,4‐butylene succinate) (PBS). The apparent activation energy (Ea) of the thermo‐oxidative degradation is calculated by employing different methods like Kissinger‐Akahira‐Sunose, Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa and Friedman. The results are compared with the antioxidant activity evaluation obtained through the ABTS radical scavenging assay. From the average activation energies, it is observed that the addition of the natural antioxidants led to an increase in the activation energy of the degradation process as a function of the phenolic compound content. This trend is confirmed by the results of the ABTS assay. Hence, this study proves that the active molecules extracted from agri‐food waste could be employed to improve the antioxidant capacity of the biopolymer, even if the composition of the extract must be evaluated in order to mitigate the effects of other components.
Automated cell isolation from photodegradable hydrogel based on fluorescence image analysis
Authors: Sugiura Shinji , Yamahira Shinya , Tamura Masato , Shin Kazumi , Shibuta Mayu , Satoh Taku , Matsuzawa Yui , Fujii Gen , Yanagawa Fumiki , Mutoh Michihiro , Yanagisawa Masumi , Kato Ryuji , Matsui Hirofumi
Published: March 2023

We report an automated cell‐isolation system based on fluorescence image analysis of cell aggregates cultured in a photodegradable hydrogel. The system incorporates cell culture in a humidified atmosphere with controlled CO2 concentration and temperature, image acquisition and analysis, micropatterned light exposure, and cell collection by pipetting. Cell aggregates were cultured on hydrogels, and target cells were selected by phase contrast and fluorescence image analysis. After degradation of the hydrogel by exposure to micropatterned UV light, cell aggregates were transferred to a collection vessel by robotic pipetting. We assessed the system for hydrogel degradation, recovery of target cells, and contamination by off‐target cells. We demonstrated two practical applications of our method: (i) in cell aggregates from MCF‐7‐RFP strains in which 18.8% of cells produced red fluorescent protein (RFP), we successfully obtained 14 proliferative fluorescence‐positive cell aggregates from 31‐wells, and all of the isolated strains produced a higher proportion of RFP production than the original populations; (ii) after fluorescent immunostaining of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) in cancer cells, we successfully isolated HER2‐positive cells from a mixed population of HER2‐positive and ‐negative cells, and gene sequence analysis confirmed that the isolated cells mainly contained the target cells.
Preservation of critical quality attributes of mesenchymal stromal cells in 3D bioprinted structures by using natural hydrogel scaffolds
Authors: Martorell Lluís , López‐Fernández Alba , García‐Lizarribar Andrea , Sabata Roger , Gálvez‐Martín Patricia , Samitier Josep , Vives Joaquim
Published: March 2023

Three dimensional (3D) bioprinting is an emerging technology that enables complex spatial modeling of cell‐based tissue engineering products, whose therapeutic potential in regenerative medicine is enormous. However, its success largely depends on the definition of a bioprintable zone, which is specific for each combination of cell‐loaded hydrogels (or bioinks) and scaffolds, matching the mechanical and biological characteristics of the target tissue to be repaired. Therefore proper adjustment of the bioink formulation requires a compromise between: (i) the maintenance of cellular critical quality attributes (CQA) within a defined range of specifications to cell component, and (ii) the mechanical characteristics of the printed tissue to biofabricate. Herein, we investigated the advantages of using natural hydrogel‐based bioinks to preserve the most relevant CQA in bone tissue regeneration applications, particularly focusing on cell viability and osteogenic potential of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) displaying tripotency in vitro, and a phenotypic profile of 99.9% CD105+/CD45,− 10.3% HLA‐DR,+ 100.0% CD90,+ and 99.2% CD73+/CD31− expression. Remarkably, hyaluronic acid, fibrin, and gelatin allowed for optimal recovery of viable cells, while preserving MSC's proliferation capacity and osteogenic potency in vitro. This was achieved by providing a 3D structure with a compression module below 8.8 ± 0.5 kPa, given that higher values resulted in cell loss by mechanical stress. Beyond the biocompatibility of naturally occurring polymers, our results highlight the enhanced protection on CQA exerted by bioinks of natural origin (preferably HA, gelatin, and fibrin) on MSC, bone marrow during the 3D bioprinting process, reducing shear stress and offering structural support for proliferation and osteogenic differentiation.
Separation and quantification of diazinon in water samples using liquid‐phase microextraction‐based effervescent tablet‐assisted switchable solvent method coupled to gas chromatography‐flame ionization detection
Authors: Kakaei Hojatollah , Shahtaheri Seyed Jamaleddin , Abdi Khosrou , Rahimi Kakavandi Nader
Published: March 2023

This study used a liquid‐phase microextraction‐based effervescent tablet‐assisted switchable solvent method coupled to gas chromatography‐flame ionization detection as an eco‐efficient, convenient‐to‐use, cost‐effective, sensitive, rapid, and efficient method for extracting, preconcentrating, and quantifying trace amounts of diazinon in river water samples. As a switchable solvent, triethylamine (TEA) was used. In situ generation of CO2 using effervescent tablet containing Na2CO3 and citric acid changed the hydrophobic TEA to the hydrophilic protonated triethylamine carbonate (P‐TEA‐C). CO2 removal from the specimen solution using NaOH caused P‐TEA‐C to be converted into TEA and led to phase separation, during which diazinon was extracted into the TEA phase. The salting‐out process was helpful in enhancing extraction efficiency. In addition, a number of significant parameters that affect extraction recovery were examined. Under optimum conditions, the limit of detection and limit of quantitation were 0.06 and 0.2 ng/ml, respectively. The extraction recovery percentage and pre‐concentration factor were obtained at 95 and 190%, respectively, and the precision (inter‐ and intra‐day, relative standard deviation %, n = 5) was <5%.
A case of adult patent ductus arteriosus‐associated infective endarteritis who was successfully treated with only antibiotics
Authors: Kanai Akira , Chikata Yuichi , Iwata Hiroshi , Ajima Tomohi , Kaneko Tomohiro , Murata Azusa , Kagiyama Nobuyuki , Fukushima Yoshifumi , Miyazaki Sakiko , Minamino Tohru
Published: March 2023

Patent ductus arteriosus‐associated infective endarteritis (PDA‐IE) is an extremely rare complication of PDA in recent years. In this report, we describe a case of PDA‐IE complicated by septic pulmonary embolism who was successfully treated with only antibiotics.
Role of ultrasound scan in prenatal diagnosis of cloacal exstrophy
Authors: Dorjey Yeshey
Published: March 2023

Cloacal exstrophy is a rare and complex ventral abdominal wall defect. Prenatal diagnosis is possible with the use of detailed ultrasound scanning. Prenatal diagnosis of an anomalous fetus helps the parents and their families in making informed decisions. This write‐up is to report a case of cloacal exstrophy diagnosed during the prenatal period using an ultrasound scan. The pregnant mother presented at 35 weeks of gestation underwent a detailed ultrasound scanning and note the findings; a large defect on the ventral surface of the anterior abdominal wall extending from the umbilicus to the inferior pelvis, with a large mass protruding through the defect, umbilical cord arising from the proximal part of the mass, with another tubular mass protruding from the inferior aspect of the larger mass giving an appearance of “elephant trunk,” absent urinary bladder, absent anal dimple, and scrotum was seen inferior to the mass but failed to appreciate the phallus. Both kidneys were normal, and there was no spinal defect. In addition, pubic bones were widely separated, and there was splaying of the iliac bone. Based on the ultrasound scan findings, a prenatal diagnosis of cloacal exstrophy was made. The pregnant mother and their families were counseled about the anomalous fetus, and they decided to continue the pregnancy. At birth, the abnormalities present in the baby were consistent with the prenatal ultrasound scan findings. On postnatal day 5, the baby underwent a complete primary surgical repair of the defect which comprised of closure of the abdominal wall defect, repair of bladder defect, pelvic osteotomies, and creation of a colostomy. The abnormalities of cloacal exstrophy detected by the ultrasound scan during the prenatal diagnosis period were consistent with the abnormalities detected at birth. This concludes that an ultrasound scan is a reliable tool to diagnose cloacal exstrophy during the prenatal period.
Loss of control in binge‐eating disorder: Fear and resignation
Authors: Perelman Hayley , Gilbert Kelsey , Grilo Carlos M. , Lydecker Janet A.
Published: March 2023

Objective

Binge‐eating disorder involves overeating while feeling a loss of control (LOC). Emotions around LOC appear to vary; some patients fear LOC whereas others feel powerless or “resigned” to LOC. This study examined differences in psychopathology among treatment‐seeking patients with binge‐eating disorder categorized with fear of LOC, resignation to LOC, and no fear/resignation of LOC.

Method

Doctoral research clinicians administered diagnostic and semistructured interviews to characterize psychopathology and establish a diagnosis of binge‐eating disorder in participants (N = 382). The interview assessed fear of LOC in the past month. Further queries assessed whether, in the absence of fear of LOC, patients were resigned to LOC or had no fear/resignation.

Results

Patients with fear of LOC and resigned to LOC endorsed significantly greater global eating‐disorder psychopathology than patients with no fear/resignation. Patients with fear of LOC reported greater distress about binge eating and greater depression than those with no fear/resignation. Patients resigned to LOC reported significantly more frequent binge‐eating episodes than those with fear of LOC and no fear/resignation. Black individuals and men were more likely to report no fear/resignation than other demographic groups.

Discussion

This study describes a novel clinical aspect of binge‐eating disorder: resignation to LOC. Findings highlight the importance of including anticipatory cognitive‐affective experiences in treatment formulations and planning. Future research should examine co‐occurrence of these experiences and their association with impairment. Future research should also examine how fear of LOC and resignation to LOC change during treatment and whether they predict or moderate treatment outcomes.

Public Significance

Adults with binge‐eating disorder have anticipatory cognitive‐affective experiences about loss of control (LOC) over eating (i.e., fear of LOC, resigned to LOC, no fear nor resignation of LOC). Individuals who experience fear of LOC and those who are resigned to LOC had more severe psychopathology than those without fear/resignation. Binge‐eating disorder has the highest prevalence of the eating disorders; thus, findings have high public significance in guiding clinicians' treatment planning.
Sexual size and shape dimorphism, and allometric scaling in the pupal and adult traits of Eristalis tenax
Authors: Ludoški Jasmina , Francuski Ljubinka , Gojković Nemanja , Matić Bojana , Milankov Vesna
Published: March 2023

The patterns and amount of variation in size, shape, and/or life history traits between females and males are fundamentally important to gain the comprehensive understanding of the evolution of phenotypic diversity. In addition, the covariation of phenotypic traits can significantly contribute to morphological diversification and sexual dimorphism (SD). Using linear and geometric morphometrics, 237 Eristalis tenax specimens sampled from five populations were, therefore, comparatively assessed for the variation in sexual size dimorphism (SSD), sexual shape dimorphism (SShD), and life history traits, as well as for trait covariation (ontogenetic and static allometry). Pupal body, adult wing, and body mass traits were analyzed. Female‐biased SSD was observed for pupal length, width, and centroid size, adult wing centroid size, mass, wing loading, and wing area. Conversely, pupal length/width ratio, developmental time, and mass were not found to be sexually dimorphic. Next, wing SShD, but not pupal body SShD was revealed, while allometry was found to be an important “determinant of SD” at the adult stage, with only a minor impact at the pupal stage. By comparing the patterns of covariance (based on allometric slope and intercept) between respective body mass and morphometric traits of pupae and adults, greater variation in allometric slopes was found in adult traits, while static allometries of the two stages significantly differed, as well. Finally, the results indicate that changes in the allometric intercept could be an important source of intraspecific variation and SD in drone fly adults.
Left ventricular wall thickness and severity of cardiac disease in women and men with transthyretin amyloidosis
Authors: Aimo Alberto , Tomasoni Daniela , Porcari Aldostefano , Vergaro Giuseppe , Castiglione Vincenzo , Passino Claudio , Adamo Marianna , Bellicini Maria Giulia , Lombardi Carlo Mario , Nardi Matilde , Palamara Gloria , Varrà Guerino Giuseppe , Saro Riccardo , Allegro Valentina , Merlo Marco , Sinagra Gianfranco , Metra Marco , Emdin Michele , Rapezzi Claudio
Published: March 2023

Aims

Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is due to a deposition of amyloid fibrils in the heart causing an increase in wall thickness. A left ventricular (LV) wall thickness ≥12 mm plus at least one red flag should raise the suspicion of CA. As normal values of LV wall thickness are lower in women, the adoption or the same cut‐off values for men and women could lead to underdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis in women. We investigated the relationship between LV wall thickness and the severity of cardiac involvement in women and men with transthyretin (ATTR) CA.

Methods and results

We evaluated 330 consecutive patients diagnosed with ATTR‐CA at three centres (Pisa, n = 232; Brescia, n = 69; Trieste, n = 29). Interventricular septum (IVS) and posterior wall (PW) thickness values were lower in women (n = 53, 16%) than men, but most differences were abolished when indexing by body surface area (BSA), height, or height2.7, suggesting similar disease severity when accounting for the smaller body size of women. PW thickness indexed for height2.7 was even higher in women. We also searched for correlations between IVS and PW thickness and other indicators of the severity of cardiac disease. IVS values indexed by height2.7 displayed tighter associations with N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide values than non‐indexed IVS values. Similarly, indexed values displayed closer relationships with relative wall thickness, E/e' ratio, and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion.

Conclusions

Indexed LV wall thickness values, particularly by height2.7, reflect more accurately the severity of cardiac involvement than non‐indexed values.
Nuclearity Control in Molecular Copper Phosphates Derived from a Bulky Arylphosphate: Synthesis, Structural and Magnetic Studies
Authors: Prapakaran Tulasi , Sathish C. I. , Yi Jiabao , Vinu Ajayan , Murugavel Ramaswamy
Published: March 2023

Starting from sterically encumbered 2,6‐di‐tert‐butylphenyl phosphate (dtbppH2) and co‐ligand 3,5‐dimethyl pyrazole (dmpz), it is possible to isolate either mono‐, di‐ or tetranuclear copper phosphates by varying the copper source and making attendant changes in the reaction conditions. For example, reaction of copper nitrate with dtbppH2 and dmpz at 60 °C leads to the isolation of the mononuclear copper phosphate [Cu(dtbppH)2(dmpz)(MeOH)2] (1) as the only product. However, the use of copper acetate in place of copper nitrate and conducting the reaction at the room temperature leads to the formation of both dinuclear [Cu(dtbpp)(dmpz)2]2 (2) and tetranuclear [Cu2(dtbpp)(dmpz)2(OAc)(MeO)]2 (3) from the same reaction mixture. Compounds 2 and 3 could be isolated in pure form through fractional crystallization. Copper phosphates 1–3 have been characterized by both analytical and spectroscopic methods including EPR and magnetic measurements. The molecular structures of all three compounds were established through single crystal diffraction studies. Dc magnetic measurements indicate antiferromagnetic interactions between the metal centres in all the compounds.
Physicochemical Characteristics and Technological Properties of Lupinus mutabilis Oil
Authors: Czubiński Jarosław , Siger Aleksander
Published: March 2023

The aim of the presented study is to examine the physicochemical parameters of the lipids present in Lupinus mutabilis seed and to compare the results with the available data for other commonly used vegetable oils. The oil quality indexes, oxidative stability index (OSI), and melting characteristics are examined. Andean lupin oil has remarkably high oxidative stability (OSI = 65 h) comparable to high‐oleic oils counterparts. Quality parameters meet commonly accepted standards, including peroxide value (3.95 meq O2 kg−1) and p‐anisidine value (1.25). The acid number value is 1.85 mg KOH g−1. The iodine value is 110.27 g/100 g, while the enthalpy required to increase the temperature of the sample from −60 to 80 °C is equal to 57.41 kJ kg−1. The beginning of the melting event (Tonset) and the phase transition temperature (Tpeak) values for L. mutabilis seed oil are −29.46 and −22.63 °C, respectively. The presented results indicate the unusually high oxidative stability of the oil obtained from L. mutabilis seeds, which opens up a whole spectrum of application possibilities, e.g., designing blends with other commonly used vegetable oils to enhance their low stability.

Practical Applications: The presented results provide insight into physicochemical parameters of the lipid fraction isolated from Lupinus mutabilis seeds. Andean lupin oil has very high oxidative stability, comparable to high‐oleic rapeseed and sunflower oils. Therefore, the identified potential use of the studied oils is, e.g. an additive that can increase the stability of commercial vegetable oils characterized by much lower oxidative stability.
Construction of C2‐Spirocyclopropyl‐Indolin‐3‐Ones through Base‐Promoted [2+1] Annulation Reaction of Indolin‐3‐ones with Bromosulfonium Salts
Authors: Zhang Mao , Yang Fenfen , Guan Xiang , Shuai Mingshan , Zhang Qingqing , Fu Xiaozhong , Yang Yuanyong , Zhou Meng , He Bin , Zhao Yonglong
Published: March 2023

A simple base‐promoted [2+1] annulation of indolin‐3‐ones and bromosulfonium salts has been developed in this article. This strategy uses simple and easily prepared indolin‐3‐ones 1 as C1 synthons and bromosulfonium salts 2 as C2 synthons under mild reaction conditions, and 33 examples of C2‐spirocyclopropyl‐indolin‐3‐ones were obtained with up to 99 % yield and >20 : 1 dr.
Visual inspection with augmented reality head‐mounted display: An Australian usability case study
Authors: Howard Sara , Jang Ryan , O'Keeffe Valerie , Manning Kosta , Trott Robert , Hordacre Ann‐Louise , Spoehr John
Published: March 2023

Augmented reality (AR) is an Industry 4.0 technology. For more than a decade, advancements in AR technology and their applications have been expected to revolutionise the manufacturing industry and deliver quality and productivity gains. However, due to factors such as equipment costs, skills shortages and technological limitations of AR devices, operational deployment beyond prototypes has been constrained. Real‐world, usability studies can explore barriers to implementation and improve system design. This paper details a mixed method usability case study of an AR head‐mounted display (HMD) to perform a short, simple visual inspection task. Twenty‐two participants from South Australian manufacturing businesses inspected a pump and pipe skid while working at height. Overall, workload demands for the task were considered acceptable and just below the “low” workload threshold (NASA Task Load Index, mean = 29.3) and the system usability was rated “average” (system usability scale, mean = 68.5). The results suggest the task did not place too high a burden on users and was an appropriate initial exposure to AR HMDs, but further refinement to the interface would be desirable before implementation to minimise frustration and promote learning. Users were enthusiastic and open‐minded about the AR HMD although results indicate that even with recent advancements in AR HMD technology, interactions between the task, technology and environment continue to cause human and technical challenges—some of which are relatively straightforward to address but others are dependent on larger‐scale efforts.
Perioperative therapy with FLOT4 significantly increases survival in patients with gastroesophageal and gastric cancer in a large real‐world cohort
Authors: Möhring Christian , Mańczak Adrianna , Timotheou Aliki , Sadeghlar Farsaneh , Zhou Taotao , Mahn Robert , Monin Malte B. , Toma Marieta , Feldmann Georg , Brossart Peter , Köksal Mümtaz , Sarria Gustavo R. , Sommer Nils , Lingohr Philipp , Jafari Azin , Kalff Jörg C. , Strassburg Christian P. , Gonzalez‐Carmona Maria A.
Published: March 2023

In 2019, the FLOT4 protocol was established as the new standard for perioperative therapy in patients with locally advanced gastroesophageal and gastric cancer. Whether this protocol is beneficial in a real‐world setting remains a question with limited answers to date. In our study, a large cohort of unselected patients treated with FLOT4 was analyzed and compared to protocols based on 5‐FU/platinum derivative. This retrospective analysis included patients with locally advanced gastroesophageal and gastric cancer treated with perioperative FLOT or 5‐FU/platinum derivative at University Hospital, Bonn between 2010 and 2022 in a curative setting (n = 99). Overall survival, disease‐free survival, therapy response and therapy complications were analyzed. Patients treated with FLOT showed a statistically significant longer median overall survival of 57.8 vs 28.9 months (HR: 0.554, 95% CI: 0.317‐0.969, P = .036). Moreover, pathological tumor regression (pTR) was significantly higher in the FLOT group compared to the 5‐FU/platinum group (P = .001). Subgroup analysis showed a favorable survival benefit for the FLOT vs 5‐FU/platinum derivate in patients with AEG and non‐signet cell carcinoma. Overall, FLOT was tolerated well but CTCAE ≥3 grade neutropenia and diarrhea occurred more often within the FLOT group. Similar to the prospective phase II/III trials, FLOT4 was the best protocol for patients with locally advanced gastroesophageal and gastric cancer as perioperative therapy in terms of overall survival and pathological response rate compared to 5‐FU/platinum derivative protocols. Interestingly, patients with gastroesophageal cancer benefitted more from this therapy. In contrast, patients with signet ring cells appear not to benefit from addition of docetaxel.
Recombinant human metallothionein‐III alleviates oxidative damage induced by copper and cadmium in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Sun Zuoyi , Qin Jianxin , Yuan Hailiang , Guo Menghao , Shang Mengting , Niu Shuyan , Li Yunjing , Li Qiang , Xue Yuying
Published: March 2023

Recombinant human metallothionein III (rh‐MT‐III) is a genetically engineered product produced by Escherichia coli fermentation technology. Its molecules contain abundant reducing sulfhydryl groups, which possess the ability to bind heavy metal ions. The present study was to evaluate the binding effects of rh‐MT‐III against copper and cadmium in vitro and to investigate the antioxidant activity of rh‐MT‐III using Caenorhabditis elegans in vivo. For in vitro experiments, the binding rates of copper and cadmium were 91.4% and 97.3% for rh‐MT‐III at a dosage of 200 μg/mL at 10 h, respectively. For in vivo assays, the oxidative stress induced by copper (CuSO4, 10 μg/mL) and cadmium (CdCl2, 10 μg/mL) was significantly reduced after 72 h of exposure to different doses of rh‐MT‐III (5–500 μg/mL), indicated by restoring locomotion behavior and growth, and reducing malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species levels in C. elegans. Moreover, rh‐MT‐III decreased the deposition of lipofuscin and fat content, which could delay the progression of aging. In addition, rh‐MT‐III (500 μg/mL) promoted the up‐regulation of Mtl‐1 and Mtl‐2 gene expression in C. elegans, which could enhance the resistance to oxidative stress by increasing the enzymatic activity of antioxidant defense system and scavenging free radicals. The results indicated that supplemental rh‐MT‐III could effectively protect C. elegans from heavy metal stress, providing an experimental basis for the future application and development of rh‐MT‐III.
Lrp5 p.Val667Met Variant Compromises Bone Mineral Density and Matrix Properties in Osteoporosis
Authors: Fabre Stéphanie , Bourmaud Morgane , Mabilleau Guillaume , Goulet Ruben , Couturier Aude , Dentel Alexandre , Picaud Serge , Funck‐Brentano Thomas , Collet Corinne , Cohen‐Solal Martine
Published: March 2023

Early‐onset osteoporosis (EOOP) has been associated with several genes, including LRP5, coding for a coreceptor in the Wnt pathway. Variants in LRP5 were also described in osteoporosis pseudoglioma syndrome, combining severe osteoporosis and eye abnormalities. Genomewide‐association studies (GWAS) showed that LRP5 p.Val667Met (V667M) variant is associated with low bone mineral density (BMD) and increased fractures. However, despite association with a bone phenotype in humans and knockout mice, the impact of the variant in bone and eye remains to be investigated. Here, we aimed to evaluate the bone and ocular impact of the V667M variant. We recruited 11 patients carrying the V667M variant or other loss‐of‐function variants of LRP5 and generated an Lrp5V667M mutated mice. Patients had low lumbar and hip BMD Z‐score and altered bone microarchitecture evaluated by HR‐pQCT compared with an age‐matched reference population. Murine primary osteoblasts from Lrp5V667M mice showed lower differentiation capacity, alkaline phosphatase activity, and mineralization capacity in vitro. Ex vivo, mRNA expression of Osx, Col1, and osteocalcin was lower in Lrp5V667M bones than controls (all p < 0.01). Lrp5V667M 3‐month‐old mice, compared with control (CTL) mice, had decreased BMD at the femur (p < 0.01) and lumbar spine (p < 0.01) with normal microarchitecture and bone biomarkers. However, Lrp5V667M mice revealed a trend toward a lower femoral and vertebral stiffness (p = 0.14) and had a lower hydroxyproline/proline ratio compared with CTL, (p = 0.01), showing altered composition and quality of the bone matrix. Finally, higher tortuosity of retinal vessels was found in the Lrp5V667M mice and unspecific vascular tortuosity in two patients only. In conclusion, Lrp5V667M variant is associated with low BMD and impaired bone matrix quality. Retinal vascularization abnormalities were observed in mice. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The effectiveness, acceptability, and sustainability of a 4‐week DBT‐informed group therapy in increasing psychological resilience for college students with mental health issues
Authors: Lee Soonhee , Arora Ishita Sunita
Published: March 2023

Objective

An adapted, time‐limited dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills training group therapy can prove to be an evidence‐based treatment that can easily fit the needs, demands, and limitations of University Counseling Centers to serve college students with mental disorders. The present naturalistic study investigated the effectiveness, acceptability, and sustainability of a 4‐week DBT‐informed group therapy in enhancing psychological resilience.

Methods

Participants included 59 college students with heterogeneous mental health concerns. They attended weekly 1.5‐hr DBT‐informed, resilience‐building group therapy for 4 weeks. Psychological resilience, mindfulness, emotional dysregulation, and overall distress were assessed at pretreatment and posttreatment, as well as at 1‐ and 3‐month follow‐ups.

Results

Findings showed increased psychological resilience among the participants at posttreatment and follow‐ups, and provided preliminary evidence for the role of mindfulness as an important contributor to enhancing psychological resilience even after controlling for risk factors, treatment dosage, pregroup psychological resilience, and changes in emotion dysregulation and overall distress.

Conclusion

A 4‐week DBT‐informed skills training group therapy can be utilized as a time‐efficient, cost‐effective, well‐accepted preventative treatment with the potential longitudinal impact to boost psychological resilience for college students with mental health issues.
Topological Flatband Loop States in Fractal‐Like Photonic Lattices
Authors: Song Limin , Xie Yuqing , Xia Shiqi , Tang Liqin , Song Daohong , Rhim Jun‐Won , Chen Zhigang
Published: March 2023

Noncontractible loop states (NLSs) are a recently realized topological entity in flatband lattices, arising typically from the band touching at a point where a flat band intersects one or more dispersive bands. There exists also band touching across a plane, where one flat band overlaps another all over the Brillouin zone without crossing a dispersive band. Such isolated plane‐touching flat bands remain largely unexplored. For example, what are the topological features associated with such flatband degeneracy? Here, nontrivial NLSs and robust boundary modes in a system with such degeneracy are demonstrated. Based on a tailored photonic lattice constructed from the well‐known fractal Sierpinski gasket, the wavefunction singularities and the conditions for the existence of the NLSs are theoretically analyzed. It is shown that the NLSs can exist in both singular and nonsingular flat bands, as a direct reflection of the real‐space topology. Experimentally, directly such flatband NLSs in a laser‐written Corbino‐shaped fractal‐like lattice are observed. This work not only leads to a deep understanding of the mechanism behind the nontrivial flatband states, but also opens up new avenues to explore fundamental phenomena arising from the interplay of flatband degeneracy, fractal structures, and band topology.
Rapid estimation of patient‐specific organ doses using a deep learning network
Authors: Myronakis Marios , Stratakis John , Damilakis John
Published: March 2023

Background

Patient‐specific organ‐dose estimation in diagnostic CT examinations can provide useful insights on individualized secondary cancer risks, protocol optimization, and patient management. Current dose estimation techniques mainly rely on time‐consuming Monte Carlo methods or/and generalized anthropomorphic phantoms.

Purpose

We proposed a proof‐of‐concept rapid workflow based on deep learning networks to estimate organ doses for individuals following thorax Computed Tomography (CT) examinations.

Methods

CT scan data from 95 individuals undergoing thorax CT examinations were used. Monte Carlo simulations were performed and three‐dimensional (3D) dose distributions for each patient were obtained. A fully connected sequential deep learning network model was constructed and trained for each organ considered in this study. Water‐equivalent diameter (WED), scan length, and tube current were the independent variables. Organ doses for heart, lungs, esophagus, and bones were calculated from the Monte Carlo 3D distribution and used to train the deep learning networks. Organ dose predictions from each network were evaluated using an independent data set of 19 patients.

Results

The trained networks provided organ dose predictions within a second. There was very good agreement between the deep learning network predictions and reference organ dose values calculated from Monte Carlo simulations. The average difference was −1.5% for heart, −1.6% for esophagus, −1.0% for lungs, and −0.4% for bones in the 95 patients dataset, and −5.1%, 4.3%, 0.9%, and 1.4% respectively in the 19 patients test dataset.

Conclusions

The proposed workflow demonstrated that patient‐specific organ‐doses can be estimated in nearly real‐time using deep learning networks. The workflow can be readily implemented and requires a small set of representative data for training.