bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eighteen‐Months Safety and Efficacy Following Intraperitoneal Treatment With 224Radium‐Labeled Microparticles After CRS‐HIPEC in Patients With Peritoneal Metastasis From Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Larsen S. G. , Graf W. , Larsen R. H. , Revheim M.‐E. , Mariathasan A. M. , Sørensen O. , Spasojevic M. , Rashid G. , Lundstrøm N. , Gjertsen T. J. , Aksnes A.‐K. , Bruland Ø. S.
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives

Peritoneal metastasis from colorectal cancer carries a high risk for relapse after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS‐HIPEC). A novel alpha‐emitting radiopharmaceutical (Radspherin) has been designed to deliver short‐range radiation to micrometastases and free‐floating tumor cells.

Methods

A Phase 1/2a study evaluated the safety, tolerability, and signal of efficacy of escalating doses of Radspherin injected intraperitoneally after CRS‐HIPEC.

Results

Eleven patients received 1−4 MBq (Group 1) whereas 12 patients received 7 MBq; nine patients single dose/three patients split‐dose (Group 2). Median age was 66.5 and 61.5 years, and median peritoneal cancer index 6 and 7, respectively. One hundred and seventy‐eight adverse events were reported, only seven were deemed related to Radspherin. Thirteen serious adverse events (SAEs) were reported in eight patients and no SAEs were related to Radspherin. At 18‐months, none of the 12 patients receiving 7 MBq experienced peritoneal recurrences, however four had non‐peritoneal recurrences. Across both groups (n = 22), 41% had recurrent disease, only 14% of them in the peritoneum.

Conclusions

Radspherin was well tolerated. At 18 months, median disease‐free survival has not been reached, and none of the patients receiving the recommended dose (7 MBq) had peritoneal recurrences. The results are encouraging and warrant further clinical evaluation.
Combining RNA tape stripping with dermoscopic features for melanoma identification
Authors: von Knorring Terese , Heerfordt Ida M. , Andersen Jeppe D. , Rosenkrantz Hølmich Lisbet , Karmisholt Katrine , Omland Silje H. , Knudsen Frederikke F. , Philipsen Peter A. , Mogensen Mette
Published: October 2024

Background

A noninvasive, accurate diagnostic method for melanoma is needed to improve early detection and decrease number of excisions. Gene expression as measured by RNA levels uses tape strips to directly assesses genetic markers from skin lesions. Commercial RNA assays show varying diagnostic accuracy in melanoma detection. Combining dermoscopic features with RNA tape strips could reduce unnecessary removal of benign lesions by increasing specificity.

Objectives

To test an RNA‐based rule‐out test and integrate dermoscopic features with RNA analysis to improve diagnostic accuracy of malignant melanoma (MM). Furthermore, we explore the association between RNA profiles and dermoscopic features.

Methods

Seventy patients with pigmented skin lesions suspected of being melanoma were imaged with dermoscopy and tape stripped for RNA analysis before surgical excision. The images were evaluated for seven dermoscopic features, and RNA levels of 11 genes were analyzed. A combined test using both gene expression and dermoscopic features was developed. Associations between RNA profiles and dermoscopic features were explored.

Results

Histopathology revealed 19 malignant lesions (17 MM and two basal cell carcinomas) and 51 benign lesions. The combined dermoscopy and RNA test identified all malignant lesions (100% sensitivity) based on PRAME expression, blotch and regression structures and patient age. This combined model increased specificity to 35%, compared to 24% with the original RNA rule‐out test, without missing any malignant lesions. Significant differences in RNA profiles were observed for lesions expressing atypical network and regression structures.

Conclusions

Combining RNA tape stripping with dermoscopic features can reduce the removal of benign lesions by over one‐third while maintaining 100% sensitivity. We found specific RNA profiles to be strongly associated with dermoscopic features, presenting a promising opportunity to integrate molecular and morphological information and provide valuable guidance for dermatologists managing atypical pigmented lesions.
The Potential Application of Mung Bean (Vigna radiata L.) Protein in Plant‐Based Food Analogs: A Review
Authors: Tarahi Mohammad
Published: October 2024

The increasing demand for plant‐based food products by consumers along with the growing global population requires the discovery of novel and sustainable protein sources to address environmental challenges and meet nutritional requirements. Among various plant proteins, mung bean protein (MBP) exhibits several unique characteristics that make it a valuable ingredient in the field of plant‐based food analogs. This literature review aims to express the unique structure and composition of MBP, in addition to its physicochemical, functional, and nutritional properties. Furthermore, its potential applications in novel meat, dairy, and egg analogs are highlighted to meet the growing demand for sustainable, nutritious, and delicious plant‐based food alternatives. Structurally, MBP consists of a complex arrangement of amino acids, forming a globular protein with distinct functional properties. Its composition is also rich in essential amino acids, particularly leucine and lysine, making it a promising protein source for plant‐based diets. From a techno‐functional perspective, MBP exhibits remarkable gelling, emulsifying, foaming, and binding properties, which are necessary for the development of stable emulsions, airy foams, firm gels, and cohesive textures in various plant‐based food formulations. Moreover, MBP and its derivatives can possess notable bio‐functional properties, including antioxidant activity and anti‐inflammatory benefits, as well as cholesterol‐lowering, anti‐obesity, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and anticancer effects. Consequently, the production of food analogs based on MBP not only improves the techno‐functional attributes of the final products but also can promote consumer health and well‐being.
Medication Use and Treatment Indications in Huntington's Disease; Analyses from a Large Cohort
Authors: Feleus Stephanie , Skotnicki Lara E.M. , Roos Raymund A.C. , de Bot Susanne T.
Published: October 2024

Background

Huntington's Disease is a rare neurodegenerative disorder in which appropriate medication management is essential. While many medications are prescribed based on expert knowledge, overviews of actual medication use in HD are sparse.

Objectives

We provide a detailed overview of medication use and associated indications across HD disease stages, considering sex and regional differences.

Methods

Data from the largest observational HD study, ENROLL‐HD, were used. We created HD‐related medication and indication classes to identify medication trends in manifest, premanifest and control subjects. We studied medication use in adult, childhood‐ and adolescent‐onset HD, incorporating disease stage (including phenoconverters), sex and regional differences.

Results

In 8546 manifest HD patients, 84.6% used medication (any type), with the average number of medications per user rising from 2.5 in premanifest HD to 5.2 in end stage disease. Antipsychotics (29.2%), SSRIs (27.5%) and painkillers (21.8%) were most often used. Medication use varied with disease progression. Several differences were observed between the sexes, and notably between Europe and Northern America as well. Medication use increased after phenoconversion (from 64.8% to 70.6%, P < 0.05), with the largest difference in antipsychotic use (4.4%–7.8%, P < 0.05). Medication patterns were different in childhood‐onset HD, with no use of painkillers, less use of anti‐chorea and antidepressant drugs, and more for aggression and irritability.

Conclusions

Medication use in HD increases with disease progression, with varying types of medications prescribed based on disease stage, sex, and region of living. Recognizing these medication trends is vital for further personalized HD management.
Accelerated cardiac cine with spatio‐coil regularized deep learning reconstruction
Authors: Demirel Omer Burak , Ghanbari Fahime , Morales Manuel Antonio , Pierce Patrick , Johnson Scott , Rodriguez Jennifer , Street Jordan Amy , Nezafat Reza
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To develop an iterative deep learning (DL) reconstruction with spatio‐coil regularization and multichannel k‐space data consistency for accelerated cine imaging.

Methods

This study proposes a Spatio‐Coil Regularized DL (SCR‐DL) approach for iterative deep learning reconstruction incorporating multicoil information in data consistency and regularizer. SCR‐DL uses shift‐invariant convolutional kernels to interpolate missing k‐space lines and reconstruct individual coil images, followed by a regularizer that operates simultaneously across spatial and coil dimensions using learned image priors. At 8‐fold acceleration, SCR‐DL was compared with Generalized Autocalibrating Partially Parallel Acquisition (GRAPPA), sensitivity encoding (SENSE)‐based DL and spatio‐temporal regularized (STR)–DL reconstruction. In the retrospective undersampled cine, images were quantitatively evaluated using normalized mean square error (NMSE) and structural similarity index measure (SSIM). Additionally, agreement for left‐ventricular ejection fraction and left‐ventricular mass were assessed using prospectively accelerated cine images at 2‐fold and 8‐fold accelerations.

Results

The SCR‐DL algorithm successfully reconstructed highly accelerated cine images. SCR‐DL had significant improvements in NMSE (0.03 ± 0.02) and SSIM (91.4% ± 2.7%) compared with GRAPPA (NMSE: 0.09 ± 0.04, SSIM: 69.9% ± 11.1%; p < 0.001), SENSE‐DL (NMSE: 0.07 ± 0.04, SSIM: 86.9% ± 3.2%; p < 0.001), and STR‐DL (NMSE: 0.04 ± 0.03, SSIM: 90.0% ± 2.5%; p < 0.001) with retrospective undersampled cine. Despite the 3‐fold reduction in scan time, there was no difference between left‐ventricular ejection fraction (59.8 ± 4.5 vs. 60.8 ± 4.8, p = 0.46) or left‐ventricular mass (73.6 ± 19.4 g vs. 73.2 ± 19.7 g, p = 0.95) between R = 2 and R = 8 prospectively accelerated cine images.

Conclusions

SCR‐DL enabled highly accelerated cardiac cine imaging, significantly reducing breath‐hold time. Compared with GRAPPA or SENSE‐DL, images reconstructed with SCR‐DL showed superior NMSE and SSIM.
A 3D fast MR elastography sequence with interleaved multislab acquisition and Hadamard encoding
Authors: Wang Runke , Chen Yu , Yan Fuhua , Yang Guang‐Zhong , Feng Yuan
Published: October 2024

Purposes

To enhance the functional capability of MRI, this study aims to develop a novel MR elastography (MRE) sequence that achieves rapid acquisition without distortion artifacts.

Methods

A displacement‐encoded stimulated echo (DENSE) with multiphase acquisition scheme was used to capture wave images. A center‐out golden‐angle stack‐of‐stars sampling pattern was introduced for improved SNR and data incoherence. A combination of Hadamard encoding and interleaved multislab acquisition schemes was used to increase the acquisition efficiency of MRE data with multiple directions and phase offsets. A generalized parallel‐imaging and compressed‐sensing method was further applied to accelerate the acquisition process. The imaging results of the proposed sequence were compared with those from six gradient echo (GRE)/EPI/DENSE–based MRE sequences via phantom and brain acquisitions.

Results

The proposed sequence achieved a 6‐fold acceleration compared with GRE MRE. With the application of a conventional parallel‐imaging and compressed‐sensing algorithm, the scanning speed was further accelerated by 8‐fold, matching the speed of EPI‐based MRE. Phantom tests revealed small variances in stiffness measurements across the seven sequences (< 9.23%). The proposed sequence exhibited a higher contrast‐to‐noise ratio (1.38) than the two EPI‐based sequences (0.61/0.76) and similar to GRE‐based sequences (1.34/1.22/1.58). Brain imaging validated the effectiveness of the proposed sequence in accurate stiffness estimation and distortion artifact avoidance.

Conclusion

A rapid DENSE‐based MRE sequence with interleaved multislab acquisition and Hadamard encoding was developed at a speed matching EPI‐based sequences, without compromising SNR or introducing distortion artifacts.
Mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation capacity in skeletal muscle measured by ultrafast Z‐spectroscopy (UFZ) MRI at 3T
Authors: Ju Licheng , Schär Michael , Wang Kexin , Li Anna , Wu Yihan , Samuel T. Jake , Ganji Sandeep , van Zijl Peter C. M. , Yadav Nirbhay N. , Weiss Robert G. , Xu Jiadi
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To investigate the feasibility of rapid CEST MRI acquisition for evaluating oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) in human skeletal muscle at 3T, utilizing ultrafast Z‐spectroscopy (UFZ) combined with MRI and the Polynomial and Lorentzian line‐shape Fitting (PLOF) technique.

Methods

UFZ MRI on muscle was evaluated with turbo spin echo (TSE) and 3D EPI readouts. Five healthy subjects performed in‐magnet plantar flexion exercise (PFE) and subsequent changes of amide, PCr, and partial PCr mixed Cr (Cr+) CEST dynamic signals post‐exercise were enabled by PLOF fitting. PCr/Cr CEST signal was further refined through pH correction by using the ratios between PCr/Cr and amide signals, named PCAR/CAR, respectively.

Results

UFZ MRI with TSE readout significantly reduces acquisition time, achieving a temporal resolution of <50 s for collecting high‐resolution Z‐spectra. Following PFE, the recovery/decay times (τ) for both PCr and Cr in the gastrocnemius muscle of the calf were notably longer when determined using PCr/Cr CEST compared to those after pH correction with amideCEST, namely = 87.1 ± 15.8 s and = 98.1 ± 20.4 s versus = 32.9 ± 19.7 s and = 43.0 ± 13.0 s, respectively. obtained via 31P MRS ( = 50.3 ± 6.2 s) closely resemble those obtained from pH‐corrected PCr/Cr CEST signals.

Conclusion

The outcomes suggest potential of UFZ MRI as a robust tool for non‐invasive assessment of mitochondrial function in skeletal muscles. pH correction is critical for the reliable OXPHOS measurement by CEST.
Have a Good Travel Time in Routing: Bibliometric Analysis, Literature Review, and Future Directions
Authors: Zhou Guanghui , Bao Xinyue , Luo Jingxian , Bian Junsong
Published: October 2024

Travel time serves as a critical factor in routing problems, affecting routing decisions, congestion avoidance, and environmental sustainability. In this study, a thorough bibliometric and network analysis is presented based on 1752 documents collected from Web of Science published in the past three decades. CiteSpace is adopted to generate research clusters for topological analysis that graphically illustrate the publications' evolution over time and identify the current state and the emerging trends of routing problems with travel time focus. The collaboration network explores the cooperation patterns between countries and institutions. Attention toward the time‐dependency, uncertainty, dynamic characteristics of travel time, and the influence of travel speed on emissions, is uncovered through document co‐citation analysis. Furthermore, a comprehensive review of the literature has been conducted from an information quality and evolution perspective. Realistic scenarios such as fuel consumption and traffic conditions are eliciting more attention. Significant emphasis is increasingly placed on the time dependency, reliability, uncertainty, and dynamics of travel time. This study systematically reviews and analyzes relevant research on routing problems with travel time focus, identifying key emerging trends and knowledge gaps, and offering valuable insights for future research.
Association between treatment response and dose of blonanserin transdermal patch in patients with acute schizophrenia: A post hoc cluster analysis based on baseline psychiatric symptoms
Authors: Takekita Yoshiteru , Matsumoto Yuji , Masuda Takahiro , Yoshida Kazumasa , Koshikawa Yosuke , Kato Masaki
Published: October 2024

Aim

To explore the optimal dose of blonanserin transdermal patch (BNS‐P) based on baseline psychiatric symptomatic characteristics during acute schizophrenia.

Methods

A post hoc cluster analysis was conducted using data from a 6‐week randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of BNS‐P (40 or 80 mg/day) in acute schizophrenia. We classified patients into three clusters based on baseline psychiatric symptoms. Efficacy was assessed using the change from baseline to week 6 in the PANSS total score. Safety was assessed by the incidence of adverse events.

Results

Among 577 patients, three clusters were identified, characterized by severe psychiatric (Cluster‐S; n = 122), predominant negative (Cluster‐N; n = 191), and predominant positive (Cluster‐P; n = 264) symptoms. In Cluster‐P, both BNS‐P 40 and 80 mg/day reduced PANSS total score significantly more than placebo (p = 0.036, effect size = 0.342; p < 0.001, effect size = 0.687, respectively). In Cluster‐S and ‐N, only BNS‐P 80 mg/day reduced PANSS total score significantly more than placebo (p = 0.045, effect size = 0.497; p = 0.034, effect size = 0.393, respectively). The effect size was greater at 80 mg/day than at 40 mg/day across all clusters. The most common treatment‐emergent adverse events were akathisia and skin‐related adverse events in all clusters.

Conclusion

BNS‐P exhibited a dose‐dependent antipsychotic effect in all clusters, particularly highlighting its efficacy in patients with predominant positive symptoms, even at lower doses. These findings provide novel and valuable insights for determining BNS‐P dose tailoring to individual symptomatic characteristics in real‐world practice.
Association of inpatient and outpatient pediatric palliative care with healthcare utilization and end‐of‐life outcomes in pediatric oncology
Authors: Shamah Rebecca L. , George Elizabeth , DeGroote Nicholas P. , Wasilewski Karen , Brock Katharine E.
Published: October 2024

Background

Pediatric palliative care (PPC) is associated with improved end‐of‐life (EOL) outcomes. Inpatient and outpatient PPC have unique roles during the disease course. Yet, it is unknown whether the location of PPC receipt (inpatient vs. outpatient) is associated with healthcare utilization and EOL outcomes for pediatric and adolescent and young adult oncology patients.

Procedure

A retrospective single‐institution chart review of pediatric patients (age 0–28) with cancer who died between January 2015 and December 2022 was performed to compare EOL outcomes and healthcare utilization metrics among inpatient PPC, any outpatient PPC, and non‐PPC recipients. Demographics and clinical factors were analyzed by PPC receipt location.

Results

Among 450 patients, 292 (64.9%) received PPC (inpatient only 35%, any outpatient 65%). Patients who died without receiving PPC dropped from 69% to 22% following development of an outpatient PPC clinic (p < .001). In the last 6 months, 1 month, and last week of life, inpatient PPC recipients spent more days admitted to the hospital and intensive care unit (all p < .001), and had more intensive medical interventions performed (p < .01). Outpatient PPC recipients were less likely to receive intravenous (IV) chemotherapy (p < .01) or intubation (p = .05), and more likely to receive hospice, die at home, and have an outpatient do‐not‐resuscitate order (all p < .001).

Conclusions

PPC receipt substantially increased after the creation of an outpatient PPC clinic, suggesting that outpatient PPC is critical in the provision of PPC to children with cancer. Outpatient PPC was associated with fewer hospital days, IV chemotherapy, and intubation at EOL, while increasing hospice enrollment and home death.
Enhancement of pin‐bearing behavior of pultruded FRP profiles by multi‐directional fiber architecture design
Authors: Zhang Leizhi , Wang Xin , Liu Jialin , Liu Xia , Wu Zhishen
Published: October 2024

The low resistance of bolted joints in pultruded unidirectional (UD) fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) profiles limits the load grade of truss bridges due to shear damage along UD fibers. To address this issue, this study proposes multi‐directional (MD) fiber architecture in FRP profiles to improve the ultimate bearing strength of bolted joints. The digital image correlation shows that the addition of off‐axis fibers in MD FRP profiles prevents shear failure in the UD FRP profile. As a result, the ultimate bearing strengths of MD FRP profiles are enhanced attributed to “off‐axis fiber tie action”. Micro‐computed tomography shows that fiber damage in MD FRP profiles emerged from outer plies, including fiber breakage in 90° and ±45° fibers and fiber kinking in 0° and ±45° fibers. The off‐axis fibers break due to tension when resisting the bearing load in MD FRP profiles. The fiber kinking indicated strength contribution from 0° to ±45° fibers. The fiber breakage and fiber kinking in each ply are dominant in bearing failure instead of delamination, which increases the bearing strength of the pultruded MD FRP profiles. These findings facilitate controlling damage evolution in the pultruded MD FRP profiles and designing high‐resistance bolted joints.

Highlights

Multi‐directional fibers improved bearing strengths of FRP profiles by 28.5%–33%.

Off‐axis fibers bent under pin‐bearing, forming a tie action until breakage.

Fiber breakage and kinking in each ply contributed to the bearing failure.

Strain localization and redistribution were observed using DIC.
Exfoliation of boron nitride nanosheets by liquid phase method based on deep eutectic solvents and their thermal management application
Authors: Tong Xin , Zou Yangming , Dong Xinxin , Li Hongfei , Gu Xiaoyu , Sun Jun , Zhang Sheng
Published: October 2024

Boron nitride had emerged as an innovative thermally conductive filler, garnering increasing attention from researchers. However, there was a need to create new methods for efficiently producing functionalized boron nitride nanosheets with enhanced thermal conductivity and dispersion. In this study, a novel approach was introduced to utilize deep eutectic solvents as additives to facilitate the exfoliation of boron nitride nanosheets. This method offered significant advantages in terms of cost‐effectiveness (low additives level) and high yield (about 60%). Furthermore, the resulting epoxy resin composite material exhibited outstanding thermal conductivity and thermal management properties. The thermal conductivity of EP/d‐BNNS composites reached 1.02 W/mK at 20 wt% d‐BNNS loading. Additionally, the composite material demonstrated good thermal stability and low dielectric properties. This work demonstrated that this proposed approach represents an effective means for the scalable production of boron nitride nanosheets.

Highlights

The boron nitride nanosheets were obtained by deep eutectic solvents (DES) ball milling method.

The exfoliated boron nitride exhibits superior dispersion stability.

The thermal conductivity of EP composites is significantly improved.
Design and development of low‐weight and high‐strength electromagnetic shielding nanocomposite in a microwave frequency range
Authors: Modanwal Rajnish P. , Kundalwal S. I.
Published: October 2024

In this novel work, we fabricated the multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)/polypyrrole (PPy) nanocomposite by employing the novel ultrasonic dual mixing (UDM) method. Subsequently, the atomistics and structural characterizations of the fabricated MWCNT/PPy nanocomposite (PM) were performed using SEM, Raman, and XRD. Furthermore, we experimentally evaluated the mechanical properties of the fabricated PM by reinforcing the PPy matrix with MWCNTs at different wt.%. The experimental study of PM shows that the mechanical properties depend upon the amount and dispersion quality of MWCNTs in the PPy matrix. In order to validate the experimental outcomes, the conservative fully coupled finite element (FE) models were developed using the ANSYS Workbench and novel FEAST software. The electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness (SE) of developed PM was also calculated at different thicknesses of PM by taking the effect of SE due to absorption (SEA) and SE reflection (SER) in the microwave frequency range of the C‐band (5.37–8.2 GHz) into consideration. The total SE (SET), the cumulative sum of SEA and SER, is the strong function of the thickness of the PM. Additionally, our study's outcomes reveal that as the thickness of the PM increased, the SET also increased by dominating the SEA rather than the SER. The SET value of 75 dB was observed for a sample with a thickness of 3 mm, indicating a high level of shielding. Thus, material becomes a highly attractive option for achieving high‐performance EMI SE in the C‐band for satellite communications, Wi‐Fi devices, weather radar systems, surveillance, and cordless telephones. A complex permittivity and permeability were also studied using the Nicolson–Ross–Weir (NRW) method to understand the mechanism behind the EMI SE.

Highlights

Nanocomposite fabricated using the novel ultrasonic dual mixing method.

FE models were developed to validate experimental results.

The EC and EMI SE are improved with the increase in the sample thickness.

Absorption, rather than reflection, dominated the shielding mechanism.

SE was observed dB with good mechanical properties.
Recent Insights Into Interfacial Transport and Chemical Reactions of Plasma‐Generated Species in Liquid
Authors: Locke Bruce R. , Thagard Selma Mededovic , Lukes Petr
Published: October 2024

The chemistry of plasma–liquid interactions involves a complex interplay of physical and chemical processes at the plasma–liquid interface. These interactions give rise to the generation, transport, and transformation of various reactive species. Since the publication of the Lorenz Roadmap in 2016, significant progress has been made in understanding the interfacial transport and coupled reactions of plasma‐generated species with inorganic and organic compounds. However, critical aspects of plasma–liquid chemistry and mass transfer still require further investigation. This review summarizes recent work on processes at the plasma–liquid interface and the coupled reactions in the liquid phase. We highlight key findings related to the involvement of O atoms, H radicals, solvated electrons, photons, and nitrogen‐derived species at the interface and within the bulk liquid.
The effects of rule of law, regulatory quality, and R&D on Japan's environmental sustainability
Authors: Damak Obadiah I. , Güngör Hasan
Published: October 2024

This study investigates Japan's ecological footprint, addressing the lack of comprehensive research on the environmental impacts of globalization, trade openness, regulatory quality, and rule of law in the country. Using data from 1990 to 2021, the study explores the relationship between these variables and Japan's ecological footprint through autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) analysis, Granger causality tests, and diagnostics to assess variable stability. The ARDL results reveal that (i) the rule of law and trade openness reduce Japan's ecological footprint, (ii) regulatory quality and globalization increase it in the long run, and (iii) research and development improve the ecological footprint in the short run. Additionally, the Granger causality test indicates a unidirectional relationship, where the ecological footprint influences all the explanatory variables. These findings highlight the importance of coordinated policies to address Japan's environmental challenges. To mitigate its ecological footprint, Japan should promote stronger legal frameworks, trade openness, and investment in research and development, while ensuring adherence to the rule of law.
Azobenzene‐Functionalized Semicrystalline Liquid Crystal Elastomer Springs for Underwater Soft Robotic Actuators
Authors: Seo Wonbin , Haines Carter S. , Kim Hongdeok , Park Chae‐Lin , Kim Shi Hyeong , Park Sungmin , Kim Dong‐Gyun , Choi Joonmyung , Baughman Ray H. , Ware Taylor H. , Lee Habeom , Kim Hyun
Published: October 2024

As actuated devices become smaller and more complex, there is a need for smart materials and structures that directly function as complete mechanical units without an external power supply. The strategy uses light‐powered, twisted, and coiled azobenzene‐functionalized semicrystalline liquid crystal elastomer (AC‐LCE) springs. This twisting and coiling, which has previously been used for only thermally, electrochemically, or absorption‐powered muscles, maximizes uniaxial and radial actuation. The specially designed photochemical muscles can undergo about 60% tensile stroke and provide 15 kJ m−3 of work capacity in response to light, thus providing about three times and two times higher performance, respectively, than previous azobenzene actuators. Since this actuation is photochemical, driven by ultraviolet (UV) light and reversed by visible light, isothermal actuation can occur in a range of environmental conditions, including underwater. In addition, photoisomerization of the AC‐LCEs enables unique latch‐like actuation, eliminating the need for continuous energy application to maintain the stroke. Also, as the light‐powered muscles processed to be either homochiral or heterochiral, the direction of actuation can be reversed. The presented approach highlights the novel capabilities of photochemical actuator materials that can be manipulated in untethered, isothermal, and wet environmental conditions, thus suggesting various potential applications, including underwater soft robotics.
In Situ Oxygen Generation via a Platinum‐Based Wireless Nanopore Electrode for Single‐Cell Manipulation
Authors: Chen Ke‐Le , Yu Ru‐Jia , Li Ming‐Kang , Wang Hao‐Wei , Xie Bao‐Kang , Liu Shao‐Chuang , Ying Yi‐Lun , Long Yi‐Tao
Published: October 2024

Oxygen production within human cells plays a critical role in cellular metabolism and is implicated in various diseases, including cancer. Investigating cellular heterogeneity under oxygen stimulation is crucial for elucidating disease mechanisms and advancing early therapeutic design. In this study, the platinum‐based wireless nanopore electrode (WNE) with a diameter of ≈200 nm is employed as a powerful tool to produce oxygen molecules near the cell nucleus. The oxygen production can be quantitatively controlled by adjusting the applied voltage. Through delivering oxygen near the cancer cell nucleus, this technique shows the capacity to alleviate the hypoxia microenvironment, a key factor in chemotherapy resistance. Furthermore, by modulating oxygen levels within individual living cells and delivering chemotherapeutic agents to the cancer cell nucleus, this approach offers significant potential for single‐cell manipulation and the investigation of cellular heterogeneity under oxygen stimulation.
Mevastatin‐Induced HO‐1 Expression in Cardiac Fibroblasts: A Strategy to Combat Cardiovascular Inflammation and Fibrosis
Authors: Lee I‐Ta , Yang Chien‐Chung , Lin Yan‐Jyun , Wu Wen‐Bin , Lin Wei‐Ning , Lee Chiang‐Wen , Tseng Hui‐Ching , Tsai Fuu‐Jen , Hsiao Li‐Der , Yang Chuen‐Mao
Published: October 2024

Mevastatin (MVS) is known for its anti‐inflammatory effects, potentially achieved by upregulating heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), an enzyme involved in cytoprotection against oxidative injury. Nonetheless, the specific processes by which MVS stimulates HO‐1 expression in human cardiac fibroblasts (HCFs) are not yet fully understood. In this study, we found that MVS treatment increased HO‐1 mRNA and protein levels in HCFs. This induction was inhibited by pretreatment with specific inhibitors of p38 MAPK, JNK1/2, and FoxO1, and by siRNAs targeting NOX2, p47phox, p38, JNK1, FoxO1, Keap1, and Nrf2. MVS also triggered ROS generation and activated JNK1/2 and p38 MAPK, both attenuated by NADPH oxidase or ROS inhibitors. Additionally, MVS promoted the phosphorylation of FoxO1 and Nrf2, which was suppressed by p38 MAPK or JNK1/2 inhibitor. Furthermore, MVS inhibited TNF‐α‐induced NF‐κB activation and vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1) expression via the HO‐1/CO pathway in HCFs. In summary, the induction of HO‐1 expression in HCFs by MVS is mediated through two primary signaling pathways: NADPH oxidase/ROS/p38 MAPK, and JNK1/2/FoxO1 and Nrf2. This research illuminates the underlying processes through which MVS exerts its anti‐inflammatory effects by modulating HO‐1 in cardiac fibroblasts.
Parosteal osteosarcoma in a cat treated by caudal maxillectomy and zygomectomy
Authors: Venzo Giorgia , Etchepareborde Sébastien
Published: October 2024

A 13‐year‐old European cat was presented for evaluation of a sessile, non‐painful mass in the right zygomatic arch that had been slowly progressing over a 1‐year period. Initial histological analysis of a bone biopsy, conducted by the referring veterinarian, yielded inconclusive results, and a second incisional biopsy was interpreted as an osteoproliferative lesion suggestive of low‐grade osteosarcoma. Caudal maxillectomy and zygomectomy were performed. Subsequent histopathological examination confirmed the presence of parosteal osteosarcoma. This neoplasm, while uncommon in feline and canine populations, remains poorly documented in existing literature.
Anomalies of average symmetries: entanglement and open quantum systems
Authors: Hsin Po-Shen , Luo Zhu-Xi , Sun Hao-Yu
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Symmetries and their anomalies are powerful tools for understanding quantum systems. However, realistic systems are often subject to disorders, dissipation and decoherence. In many circumstances, symmetries are not exact but only on average. This work investigates the constraints on mixed states resulting from non-commuting average symmetries. We will focus on the cases where the commutation relations of the average symmetry generators are violated by nontrivial phases, and call such average symmetry anomalous. We show that anomalous average symmetry implies degeneracy in the density matrix eigenvalues, and present several lattice examples with average symmetries, including XY chain, Heisenberg chain, and deformed toric code models. In certain cases, the results can be further extended to reduced density matrices, leading to a new lower bound on the entanglement entropy. We discuss several applications in the contexts of many body localization, quantum channels, entanglement phase transitions and also derive new constraints on the Lindbladian evolution of open quantum systems.
The variance of integers without small prime factors in short intervals
Authors: Gorodetsky Ofir
Published: October 2024

The variance of primes in short intervals relates to the Riemann Hypothesis, Montgomery’s Pair Correlation Conjecture and the Hardy–Littlewood Conjecture. In regards to its asymptotics, very little is known unconditionally. We study the variance of integers without prime factors below y, in short intervals. We use complex analysis and sieve theory to prove an unconditional asymptotic result in a range for which we give evidence is qualitatively best possible. We find that this variance connects with statistics of y-smooth numbers, and, as with primes, is asymptotically smaller than the naive probabilistic prediction once the length of the interval is at least a power of y.
Anatomical analysis of the abdominal aorta in a South African sample: influence of age and sex
Authors: Mokoena Pheladi , Lunn-Collier Robyn , Witbooi Lee-Roy , Baatjes Karin , Keet Kerri
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The anatomy of the abdominal aorta (AA) varies with age and sex; however, limited studies exist from South Africa. Given the increased incidence of endovascular treatment of the AA, reference values are relevant for interventionalists for improving the safety of endovascular procedures. Therefore, the study aimed to determine the lengths, diameters and tortuosity of the AA and their association with age and sex in a South African sample.

Methods

After ethical approval, 97 computed tomography angiography (CTA) scans from an adult sample (54 male and 43 female), mean age 48.5 ± 17.2 years were analysed. The aortic length was measured from the origin of the coeliac trunk to the bifurcation point of the AA. The lumen diameters of the aorta were measured at three landmarks. Tortuosity of the AA was quantified with the tortuosity index and its prevalence was determined.

Results

The AA was longer in males and showed a significant weak positive correlation with age. The mean diameters of the AA were larger in males and had a significant strong positive correlation with age in both sexes (p < .001). There was a strong positive correlation between age and tortuosity in both sexes (p < .001). The prevalence of a tortuous c-shaped-curve phenotype was 8.2%, with a 7:1 male-to-female ratio.

Conclusion

The dimensions and tortuosity differed between sexes and varied significantly with age. These findings may contribute towards reference values in the South African setting, inform patient selection and complement decision-making of endovascular treatment strategies.
Characterizing the chemical composition of red coloring matter samples from the Altamira cave using synchrotron µXRF imaging
Authors: Tapia José , Eveno Myriam , Prada Alfredo , Fatás Pilar , de las Heras Carmen , Arias Pablo , Müller Katharina , Schöder Sebastian , Reiche Ina
Published: October 2024

The chemical in situ study of red coloring matter from Paleolithic cave art is challenging because the same trace elements can be present both in the matter and in the calcitic support, and the two present a heterogeneous composition. In this study, thirteen red iron oxide-based coloring matter samples obtained at drip points coming from eight locations within the Techo de los Polícromos, Altamira cave (Spain), have been analyzed by highly sensitive synchrotron-induced micro-X-ray fluorescence (SR-µXRF). Our analyses improved the characterization of red Paleolithic pigments by establishing characteristic trace element patterns, additionally facilitating a comparison of the distinct representations within the cave. Furthermore, new differentiation criteria between the composition of the calcitic walls and that of the red coloring matter could be established, helping to improve future non-invasive analyses.
Characterisation of rouaite, an unusual copper-containing pigment in early modern English wall paintings, by synchrotron micro X-Ray diffraction and micro X-Ray absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Purdy Ellen H. , Critchley Sarah , Holé Clément , Cotte Marine , Kirkham Andrea , Casford Michael
Published: October 2024

Although the use of verditer, a synthetically produced copper carbonate pigment chemically analogous to azurite (Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2), in early modern wall paintings is regularly reported in grey literature, its detection in wall paintings is typically unavailable in a public forum. This article focusses on two particular samples (M9 and T1) initially suspected to contain copper blue pigments from decorative wall painting schemes in domestic houses across a range of status groups, in eastern and south-eastern England, dated to 1550-1650. Interest in verditer synthesis procedures is found in textual sources including both historic manuals and current scientific literature. The unreliability of the synthesis, particularly for blue verditer, however, is widely documented. Here, we report a multimodal study employing SEM-EDX, SR-$$\mu$$
μ
PXRD mapping, and SR-$$\mu$$
μ
XANES spectroscopy to characterise the phases present in two wall painting samples, one c. 1600/early 1600s (M9) and the other c. 1600 (T1). In addition to assessment of the presence of verditer, this study presents the first identification of rouaite, a synthetic copper hydroxynitrate mineral (Cu2(NO3)(OH)3), in wall painting samples. Rouaite, shown in a previous publication to be a common byproduct of replications of the historical verditer synthetic recipes, appears in combination with verditer and alone. Its infrequent identification in paintings and murals is considered in light of analytical challenges. The presence of copper hydroxychlorides is also discussed in the context of rouaite stability and degradation. These results represent a significant development in our knowledge of the early modern palette in England and historical verditer synthesis and advances our understanding of how these painting schemes may be best preserved in the future.
Towards full autonomy in mobile robot navigation and manipulation
Authors: Schwaiger Simon , Muster Lucas , Scherl Alessandro , Trivisonne Paolo , Wöber Wilfried , Thalhammer Stefan
Published: October 2024

Robot autonomy is a key for automatizing industrial production plants, facilitating responsive search and rescue (SAR), and for interacting in urban settings. This work presents mobile systems capable of carrying out these tasks and summarises experience from practical deployments in three different domains for navigation. For industry, a mobile manipulator is presented, which is used for dynamic precise docking and object handling. For SAR, a semi-autonomous system is presented which is used for sampling hazardous materials, manipulating tools, and for localizing nuclear radiation sources. To improve urban logistics, a mobile robot autonomously navigates complex outdoor environments using semantic mapping techniques. Future work will explore further advancements that strive toward increased flexibility, reasoning and universal applicability of mobile robots. The goal is to reduce training, onboarding and tool changing times to reduce manual interfacing times.
Lifestyle changes and patient-reported outcomes over five years in a sample of people with multiple sclerosis after a single multimodal intensive lifestyle education workshop
Authors: Reece Jeanette , Jelinek George A , Milanzi Elasma , Simpson-Yap Steve , Neate Sandra L , Taylor Keryn L , Jelinek Pia L , Davenport Rebekah , Bevens William , Yu Maggie
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Modifiable lifestyle risk factors for progression of multiple sclerosis (MS) have been increasingly studied. This study employed a single-group design involving a one-off intensive live-in educational workshop on lifestyle modification for people with MS. We aimed to examine changes in a range of clinical and lifestyle variables and quality of life, self-efficacy, physical impact of MS and disability from baseline to 3- and 5-years post-intervention.

Methods

95 participants completed the baseline survey. Data included lifestyle risk factors of diet quality, meat and dairy consumption, omega 3 and vitamin D supplementation, physical activity, stress reducing activities, and smoking status, and use of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). Patient-reported outcomes included health-related quality of life, self-efficacy, physical impact of MS and disability. Generalised estimating equation models were used to account for within-participant correlation over time.

Results

Sixty participants (63.2%) provided data at 3- and 5-years. Significant improvements in diet quality, omega 3 supplementation, and non-smoking were seen at both timepoints. Use of DMTs and disability remained unchanged. Mental (8.8- and 6.9-point) and physical (10.5- and 7.3-point) quality of life, and self-efficacy (2.4- and 1.9-point) improved significantly at 3- and 5-years, respectively. Physical impact of MS reduced from baseline to 3-years (-3.7 points) with a trend towards reduction at 5-years (-2.9 points; p = 0.079).

Conclusions

Education on lifestyle modification can lead to lifestyle modification and short and long-term improvements in mental and physical wellbeing outcomes. Results suggest potential value in lifestyle modification as an adjunctive component to standard therapy for MS.
Treatment selection and influencing factors for chronic lymphocytic leukemia: a physician survey in Japan
Authors: Yuda Junichiro , Wang Chaochen , Terasawa Tomoko , Tajimi Masaomi , Osaga Satoshi , Miura Moemi , Takaoka Shori , Tanizawa Yoshinori
Published: October 2024

Background

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a rare form of lymphoma in Japan. This study aimed to explore hematologists’ motivations and considerations in making treatment decisions for CLL.

Methods

Responses from hematologists treating CLL, obtained through an online survey, were descriptively analyzed. Subgroup analyses by preferred first-line (1L) treatment, years of clinical experience, and level of interest in CLL were conducted.

Results

Out of 107 hematologists surveyed, 82.2% identified Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKi) as their primary choice for 1L treatment; the reasons included established clinical evidence (61.4%) and oral administration convenience (56.8%). Key factors influencing 1L treatment selection among those favoring BTKi included the presence of 17p deletion, TP53 mutation, and patient’s fitness status. BTKi was favored by 92.6% of hematologists with < 10 years of clinical experience and by 78.8% with more experience. The main reasons for choosing BTKi included safety (50.0%) and tolerance (46.7%) among hematologists who stated they had a specific interest in CLL and the oral administration route (62.1%) among hematologists with lower interest. When BTKi was used as 1L therapy, venetoclax-based regimens were preferred for second-line treatment. The most common concern about BTKi was substantial out-of-pocket costs.

Conclusion

Although many Japanese hematologists select their treatment based on clinical evidence, variations exist in treatment strategies, possibly associated with hematologists’ experience and interest in CLL. These findings underscore the importance of further promoting evidence-based treatments to ensure that all physicians can make informed decisions. Future research should explore additional factors that influence CLL treatment decisions.
Habitat quality in farmland influences the activity patterns of giant Galapagos tortoises
Authors: Pike Kyana N. , Blake Stephen , Gordon Iain J. , Schwarzkopf Lin
Published: October 2024

Many Galapagos giant tortoises make seasonal migrations from arid lowlands in the wet season, to humid highlands in the dry season. However, for critically endangered Western Santa Cruz giant tortoises (Chelonoidis porteri), at least 88% of the habitat in the highlands is now used for agriculture. To understand the impact of agricultural land use on tortoise behavior, we conducted 242 30-minute observations of tortoises on farms. We (1) recorded the time tortoises spent eating, walking, and resting in three different land-use types, (2) measured their temperature, and (3) quantified their selection of fine-scale vegetation characteristics. We found that tortoises rest for significantly longer periods when they are in abandoned land, compared to livestock, grazing, and touristic land. Generally, tortoises rested for longer when they were cooler. Time spent eating was increased by the density and proportion of ground vegetation, while time spent walking was reduced by tall vegetation. These findings suggest that the distribution of land-use types and the fine-scale composition of thermoregulatory and grazing resources within farmland have important implications for the behavior of tortoises while in human-modified land. Wildlife managers and landowners wishing to support tortoises on farms should focus on rehabilitating abandoned land and encouraging a heterogenous mix of sun and shade, and short ground vegetation across land-use types.