bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Segment Edit and Segment Weight Optimization: Two Techniques for Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy and Their Application to the Planning for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Li Qilin , Pei Honglei , Mu Jingming , Hu Qiang , Gu Wendong
Published: April 2013

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the two functions: segment weight optimization (SWO) and segment edit (SE) in the latest XiO 4.7 radiation treatment planning system and their effect on the planning of intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC). SWO first appeared in XiO 4.5 and SE in XiO 4.7. Twelve patients with NPC were selected and there were three plans for each patient: the common step-and-shoot IMRT plan (C-IMRT); S-IMRT was based on the result of C-IMRT and the plan was further optimized with SWO; F-IMRT was based on S-IMRT and the segments were edited for lowering the dose received by normal tissues. The paired plans were analyzed by comparing the total number of segments, monitor units, the homogeneity index and conformity index of the target volumes and the dose delivered to organs at risk (OAR) including spinal cord, brain stem, optic nerves, chiasm, parotids and larynx. The study exhibited that the total number of segments and monitor units of S-IMRT and F-IMRT were around 25.3%, 3.4% less than those of C-IMRT respectively. The HI and CI indexes of target volumes among three kinds of plans did not show the significant difference. The doses received by spinal cord, brain stem, parotids, larynx were decreased at S-IMRT and F-IMRT as compared to C-IMRT; the highest doses delivered to chiasm and optic nerves were S-IMRT, the next C-IMRT, the lowest F-IMRT. This study showed that the SWO function could substantially reduce the total number of segments of step-and-shoot IMRT plans and the SE function had the incredible ability to lower the dose received by normal tissues.
The Potential for an Enhanced Role for MRI in Radiation-Therapy Treatment Planning
Authors: Metcalfe P. , Liney G. P. , Holloway L. , Walker A. , Barton M. , Delaney G. P. , Vinod S. , Tomé W.
Published: April 2013

The exquisite soft-tissue contrast of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has meant that the technique is having an increasing role in contouring the gross tumor volume (GTV) and organs at risk (OAR) in radiation therapy treatment planning systems (TPS). MRI-planning scans from diagnostic MRI scanners are currently incorporated into the planning process by being registered to CT data. The soft-tissue data from the MRI provides target outline guidance and the CT provides a solid geometric and electron density map for accurate dose calculation on the TPS computer. There is increasing interest in MRI machine placement in radiotherapy clinics as an adjunct to CT simulators. Most vendors now offer 70 cm bores with flat couch inserts and specialised RF coil designs. We would refer to these devices as MR-simulators. There is also research into the future application of MR-simulators independent of CT and as in-room image-guidance devices. It is within the background of this increased interest in the utility of MRI in radiotherapy treatment planning that this paper is couched. The paper outlines publications that deal with standard MRI sequences used in current clinical practice. It then discusses the potential for using processed functional diffusion maps (fDM) derived from diffusion weighted image sequences in tracking tumor activity and tumor recurrence. Next, this paper reviews publications that describe the use of MRI in patient-management applications that may, in turn, be relevant to radiotherapy treatment planning. The review briefly discusses the concepts behind functional techniques such as dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE), diffusion-weighted (DW) MRI sequences and magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI). Significant applications of MR are discussed in terms of the following treatment sites: brain, head and neck, breast, lung, prostate and cervix. While not yet routine, the use of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map analysis indicates an exciting future application for functional MRI. Although DW-MRI has not yet been routinely used in boost adaptive techniques, it is being assessed in cohort studies for sub-volume boosting in prostate tumors.
Inhibition of Glucose Transporter 1 (GLUT1) Chemosensitized Head and Neck Cancer Cells to Cisplatin
Authors: Wang Yao-Dong , Li Sheng-Jiao , Liao Jian-Xing
Published: April 2013

Glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) facilitates the cellular uptake of glucose and is overexpressed in most cancers. The altered expression of GLUT1 may influence the sensitivity of tumor cells to chemotherapy. This study investigated whether the knockdown of GLUT1 expression to sensitize head and neck cancer cells to the chemotherapy drug cisplatin in vitro. Anti-GLUT1 antibody was used to block activity of GLUT1 protein, and GLUT1-shRNA was used to knock down its mRNA expression in Cal27 cells. Immunocytochemistry, Western blot, and qRT-PCR were used to detect expression of GLUT1 mRNA and protein, respectively. Lentivirus was used to carrying GLUT1-shRNA to knockdown GLUT1 expression in Cal27 cells for MTT and flow cytometry analyses of cell viability and apoptosis, respectively. Glucose uptake assay was used to assess the changes in glucose levels in Cal27 cells. It showed that GLUT1 mRNA and protein were expressed in Cal27 cells, and GLUT1 protein was localized on the cell membrane. Both anti-GLUT1 antibody and GLUT1-shRNA sensitized Cal27 cells to cisplatin treatment under both normoxia and hypoxia conditions. Anti-GLUT1 antibody and GLUT1-shRNA inhibited tumor cell growth in vitro and induced them to undergo apoptosis. GLUT1-shRNA also suppressed tumor cell uptake of glucose into the cells. Our findings suggest that inhibition of GLUT1 activity and expression can sensitize Cal27 cells to cisplatin treatment in both normoxic and hypoxic conditions. These data could be further verified in animal xenografts before potential application as a clinical adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy of head and neck cancer with cisplatin.
An Efficient Neuro‐Dynamic Network for Constructing the Pareto Front of Convex Multiobjective Optimization Problems
Authors: Abkhizi M. , Ghaznavi M. , Noori Skandari M. H.
Published: February 2025

This article introduces an effective neural network model for addressing convex multiobjective optimization problems, developed using the Karush–Kuhn–Tucker optimality conditions for multiobjective optimization problems. The proposed model is shown to be stable in the sense of Lyapunov and globally convergent to efficient solutions of the original problem. Additionally, a novel algorithm is presented to achieve a uniform approximation of the Pareto frontier. The approach's validity and effectiveness are demonstrated through experimental multiobjective problems. For a thorough comparison with other methods, four metrics including purity, uniformity, coverage, and spacing indicators are used, focusing on the positioning of the non‐dominated points. Extensive numerical tests highlight the proposed algorithm's substantial advantages.
Radial Deposition for Mechanical Bonding of Dissimilar Metals in Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Squires Lile , Myers Michael B. , Bandyopadhyay Amit
Published: February 2025

High energy input creates enormous challenges for direct fusion bonding between dissimilar metals in wire‐arc directed energy deposition (DED). Vast differences in material properties, such as those between aluminum and stainless steel, cause significant compatibility issues. Their combination for higher performance is a compelling goal, but attempts are usually limited to nonadditive mechanical fastening. Wire‐based additive for direct fusion has never been attempted, and only powder‐based additive metal fusion manufacturing (AM) has shown any promise. Concentric radial deposition patterns are used in a wire‐arc DED system to produce a layer‐by‐layer in situ bimetallic coupling between AA5356 and SS308L to address this. The additively generated mechanical bond is held together by residual pressure, created by different thermal expansion coefficients between the concentric material bands during cooling. This produces a purely additive yet viable mechanical joint with minimal metallurgical bonding. Destructive testing defines the integrity of the additively coupled unit, with the radial overlap sustaining 732.96 Nm in torsion, 34.17 kN in tension, and a maximum of 475 MPa in compression. Fracture modes confirm the importance of concentric residual loads in creating the mechanically viable joint. Interfacial characterization shows a 300× reduction in crack width for concentrically constrained interfaces with narrowed diffusion zones.
Computer‐Aided Design of Integrated Digital Strain Sensors for Hardware‐Based Recognition and Quantification of Human Movements
Authors: Gasvoda Hudson , Li Mengchu , Pader Andrea , Altay Rana , Cmager Nick , Pandey Tripti , Tseng Tsun‐Ming , Araci Ismail Emre
Published: February 2025

An integrated strain sensor system that has a unique response to a specific (set of) human movement(s) has the potential to impact various musculoskeletal health tracking applications akin to the step counter's impact on physical activity tracking. It is determined that an open circuit state of a sensor can be used as such a unique response. With this consideration, a digital strain sensor (DigSS) that exhibits a binary (i.e., ON/OFF) response when a threshold strain level is exceeded is developed. The channel geometry dependence of the corner flow in capillaric strain sensors (CSS) resulting in an electrofluidic switch is used. It is demonstrated that through the coalescence and breakup of a liquid meniscus, DigSS operates for hundreds of cycles with a strain limit of detection of 0.0026. To facilitate integration, a linear optimization‐based computer‐aided design tool for the integrated DigSS (iDigSS) is created. Experimental validation shows that the iDigSS distinguishes a target strain‐field profile from 35 of 36 theoretically distinguishable profiles without requiring signal processing. Human subject trials demonstrate the system's ability to differentiate a specific shoulder movement from five others and to wirelessly record wrist extension counts and durations.
The shadow that follows
Authors: Oboli Victor N. , Bank Deleteh
Published: February 2025

This poem is a poignant exploration of mortality, grief, and the human experience. Written years ago after witnessing the loss of a patient in the emergency room, it confronts the sudden and devasting event of death as an individualized, willful entity and its impact while capturing the fragility of life and death's inevitability.
How Competitive Is Myanmar's Rice Sector? A Comparison of Production Costs and Efficiency
Authors: Chan Nandar Aye , Sariyev Orkhan , Islam Mohammad Ariful , Zeller Manfred
Published: February 2025

This paper analyzes the cost competitiveness of rice production in Myanmar by examining production costs, cost efficiency, and the potential effect of improving cost efficiency on the country's global competitiveness. To achieve this, we conduct a comparative analysis of production costs among major rice‐producing countries and estimate the cost efficiency of rice farming in Myanmar using a stochastic frontier cost function model. Subsequently, we examine how cost efficiency affects domestic resource costs (DRC), a key indicator of global competitiveness in rice production, by addressing the endogeneity issue that prior research has not dealt with. We also consider seasonal variations across both the dry and wet seasons in Myanmar, an aspect often overlooked in previous research. Our findings reveal that Myanmar ranks as the second least expensive rice‐producing country among selected Asian countries. The mean cost efficiencies are 89% and 86% for the dry and wet seasons, respectively, indicating high cost efficiency during these seasons. Both dry and wet seasons of rice production demonstrate a comparative advantage, with DRC values of 0.31 and 0.54, respectively. The results also show that cost efficiency positively contributes to global competitiveness in both seasons, implying that the global competitiveness of Myanmar's rice sector can increase by improving cost efficiency. Therefore, policy interventions aimed at developing demand‐driven high‐yield potential with stress‐tolerant rice varieties, promoting the utilization of quality seed, and providing more extensive training on input management practices and educational programs are recommended to enhance cost efficiency, which can further strengthen the country's competitiveness in the global rice market.
Blunted Blood Pressure Dipping During Night Shift Work: Does It Matter? Can We Intervene?
Authors: Patterson P. Daniel , Hostler David , Muldoon Matthew F. , Buysse Daniel J. , Reis Steven E.
Published: February 2025

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of adult death in the United States. Numerous studies show that night shift workers face a disproportionately higher risk of CVD compared to non‐shift workers. Despite these data, the scientific and medical communities have not identified the physiological mechanisms that contribute to increased CVD risks for night shift workers. We propose that repetitive exposure to blunted blood pressure (BP) dipping associated with sleep loss during night shift work is an important, clinically meaningful, understudied, and modifiable contributor to increased risk of CVD. Blunted BP dipping occurs when BP fails to decrease or “dip” 10%−20% during nighttime hours (typically while sleeping) relative to daytime hours (typically while awake). Blunted BP dipping is widely considered a clinically meaningful indicator of poor cardiovascular health. Previous research suggests it is a common consequence of night shift work and occurs during sleep before and immediately after night shifts. Relatively few studies of shift work and CVD have focused on blunted BP dipping as a mechanism of CVD risk. Recent experimental research shows that restoration of normal BP patterns—during night shift work—is achievable with strategic napping and may reduce the risk of CVD. We present a series of important mechanistic‐related questions and next steps for future research focused on blunted BP dipping and night shift work.
Research Priorities of Individuals and Families With Sex Chromosome Aneuploidies
Authors: Carl Alexandra , Bothwell Samantha , Farah Fathia , Swenson Karli , Hong David , Prakash Siddharth , Strang John , Tartaglia Nicole , Raznahan Armin , Ross Judith ,   INSIGHTS Consortium,   GALAXY Consortium, Davis Shanlee
Published: February 2025

Sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCAs) are chromosomal variations that result from an atypical number of X and/or Y chromosomes. Combined, SCAs affect ~1/400 live births, including individuals with Klinefelter syndrome (47, XXY), Turner syndrome (45, X and variants), Double Y syndrome (47, XYY), Trisomy X (47, XXX), and rarer tetrasomies and pentasomies. Individuals with SCAs experience a wide variety of physical health, mental health, and healthcare experiences that differ from the standard population. To understand the priorities of the SCA community we surveyed participants in two large SCA registries, the Inspiring New Science in Guiding Healthcare in Turner Syndrome (INSIGHTS) Registry and the Generating Advancements in Longitudinal Analysis in X and Y Variations (GALAXY) Registry. 303/629 (48.1% response rate) individuals from 13 sites across the United States responded to the survey, including 251 caregivers and 52 self‐advocates, with a range of ages from 3 weeks to 73 years old, and representation from all SCA groups (Turner syndrome, XXX, XXY, XYY, XXYY, and combined rare tetrasomies and pentasomies). Results demonstrate the priorities for physical health and emotional/behavioral health identified by the SCA community, as well as preferred types of research. All SCA subtypes indicated intervention studies as the top priority, emphasizing the need for researchers to focus on clinical treatments in response to priorities of the SCA community.
Electrocatalytic Acetylene Semi‐Hydrogenation to Ethylene with High Energy Efficiency
Authors: Dou Cong , Huang Yanmei , Zhao Bohang , Lei Weiwei , Zhang Bin , Yu Yifu
Published: February 2025

Electrocatalytic acetylene semi‐hydrogenation (EASH) provides a petroleum‐independent strategy for ethylene production. However, the challenges of high overpotentials and strong hydrogen evolution competition reaction over conventional electrocatalysts at industrial current densities result in substantial energy consumption, limiting the practical application of EASH technology. Herein, zinc‐doped copper catalysts are designed and prepared via a facile impregnation and electroreduction relay method. The as‐prepared Cu‐2.7Zn catalyst exhibits an ethylene partial current density of −0.29 A cm−2 with a Faradaic efficiency of 96% and a reaction potential of −0.62 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), surpassing the previously reported electrocatalysts. The combined results of experimental tests and theoretical calculations demonstrate zinc doping significantly enhances acetylene adsorption and accelerates reaction kinetics, leading to a notable decrease in overpotential. Furthermore, the increased *H‐*H binding energy barrier and the improved ethylene desorption on Cu‐2.7Zn effectively suppress hydrogen evolution and acetylene over‐hydrogenation, contributing to the enhancement of ethylene Faradaic efficiency.
Pyridoxal‐Inspired Photo‐Decarboxylase Catalysis: Photochemical Decarboxylation of Unprotected Amino Acids
Authors: Lipshultz Jeffrey , Tan Dong-Hang , Das Agniva , Huang Vincent , Schoch Timothy Daniel , Mohammed Abubakar Lawal
Published: February 2025

A photochemical organocatalytic method for the protodecarboxylation of unprotected amino acids is reported. Inspired by pyridoxal 5'‐phosphate‐dependent decarboxylase enzymes, the catalytic activation of amino acid substrates by 3‐hydroxyisonicotinaldehyde enables a photochemical decarboxylation event, which can be leveraged in combination with a thiol co‐catalyst. The necessary and sufficient structural features of the pyridoxal‐like framework for photoactivity are determined using ultraviolet‐visible absorption spectroscopy. A broad scope of unprotected amino acids can be decarboxylated in this system, with selectivity between multiple carboxylates realized on the possible basis of hyperconjugation. The ability to engage simple amino acids in decarboxylative functionalization at ambient conditions using a pyridoxal‐mimicking organocatalyst enables new possibilities for the translation of biogenic amino acids into medicinally valuable amines.
Metabolism‐inspired chemical reaction networks for chemically driven dissipative oligoesterification
Authors: Lim Yeonsoo , Park Gyunam , An Hojin , Han Jonghwa , Bae Joonhyun , Kim Ji‐Hyun , Lee Yan , Kang Kyungtae , Sung Jaeyoung , Kwon Sunbum
Published: February 2025

Metabolism is a complex network of chemical reactions in which transient biomolecules are continuously produced and degraded. Mimicking this dynamic process in synthetic systems poses a considerable challenge, as it requires designs that enable the exchange of energy and matter among transient molecules. In this study, we explored a chemically driven oligoesterification process operating within a highly intricate reaction network and constructed a dynamic library of transient oligoesters. Our kinetic analysis uncovered an intriguing phenomenon: oligoesters undergo parasitic exchanges, consuming one another to sustain the system's dynamics before reaching thermodynamic equilibrium. This discovery opens new opportunities for designing synthetic systems that replicate the complexity and self‐sustaining behavior of metabolic processes.
Selective Electrochemical CO2 Reduction to Ethylene or Ethanol via Tuning *OH Adsorption
Authors: Zhong Dazhong , Fang Qiang , Du Runxin , Jin Yaxin , Peng Chen , Cheng Dongfang , Li Tan , Zhao Tao , Zhang Sheng , Zheng Yao , Zhao Qiang , Sun Yuhan , Li Jinping
Published: February 2025

Selective electrocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2RR) into ethylene (C2H4) or ethanol (C2H5OH) is a high challenge. In this study, the rational manipulating of Cu defect sites was realized for the selective formation of C2H5OH and C2H4. Low‐coordination amorphous and medium‐coordination grain‐boundary Cu defect sites with different *OH affinity were found to play a decisive role in the selective protonation of CH2CHO*. In particular, grain‐boundary‐rich Cu (denoted as Cu‐1) that weakly adsorbed *OH and CH2CHO* favored the protonation on β‐C of CH2CHO*, leading to the selective production of C2H5OH. In contrast, amorphous Cu defect sites (denoted as Cu‐3) showed strong *OH adsorption and then strong CH2CHO* adsorption, facilitating C–O breaking and C2H4 formation. In the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) configuration, a remarkably high full‐cell energy efficiency (EE) of 29.0% for C2H5OH on Cu‐1 and an impressive high full‐cell EE of 25.6% for C2H4 on Cu‐3 were observed. In addition, a C2H4 Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 63.4±1.5% was achieved on Cu‐3 at a notable current of 12.5 A with a 25 cm‐2 MEA configuration. These results provided crucial insights into the significance of defect sites in realizing the adsorption of *OH for the selective production of C2H4 or C2H5OH.
Photo‐Patternable and Healable Polymer Semiconductor Enabled by Dynamic Covalent Disulfide Bonding
Authors: Xue Xiang , Li Cheng , Yu Xiaobo , Chenchai Kaiyuan , Zhang Xinyue , Zhang Xisha , Zhang Guanxin , Zhang Deqing
Published: February 2025

Apart from charge transport property, polymer semiconductors with patternable and healable functions are highly demanding for the fabrication of organic circuits. Herein, by leveraging the dynamic covalent disulfide bonding of thioctic acid (TA) groups, we successfully integrate photo‐patterning and thermal‐healing capabilities into a single diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP)‐based polymer semiconductor for the first time. The results show that the thin film of DPP‐based conjugated donor‐acceptor polymer with TA groups in the side chains exhibits excellent photo‐patterning capability under 365 nm UV light irradiation, with sensitivity (S) of 210 mJ·cm‐2 and contrast (γ) of 1.2. Importantly, the patterning process has minimal impact on thin film morphology, interchain stacking, and charge transport mobility. Moreover, the patterned thin films, which were initially scratched, can be well healed after exposure to chloroform vapor and further thermal annealing, and simultaneously the charge mobility can be restored. In comparison, the scratched thin film of PDPP4T without TA groups in the side chains achieves only 82.6% recovery of scratch depth and 54.5% recovery of charge mobility under the same conditions. These results demonstrate the feasibility of constructing multifunctional polymer semiconductors by incorporating TA groups in the side chains, offering a new pathway to lithography‐compatible, self‐healing smart flexible devices.
An Azo Polymer with Abundant Active Sites and Extended Conjugation as a Stable Cathode for High‐Performance Zinc‐Organic Batteries
Authors: Tang Shaochun , Ye Chengwei , Zhou XiaoYa
Published: February 2025

Developing stable cathodes with high capacity and rapid redox kinetics is pivotal for aqueous zinc‐organic batteries (ZOBs). A huge challenge lies in balancing the density of active sites and electronic conductivity of organic cathodes. Herein, an azo polymer from 4,5,9,10‐pyrene‐tetraone (PTAP) possessing high active components and extended conjugated structure was achieved. The extended conjugated system linked by the azo groups facilitates extensive electron delocalization and a low band gap, which endows the PTAP with enhanced electronic conductivity reaching 4.26×10⁻3 S m⁻¹. The azo groups themselves serve as active centers for two‐electron transfer, leading to a significant increase in the density of redox‐active sites and charge storage efficiency. Moreover, strong intramolecular interactions and unique solvation structure bolster the anti‐solubility of PTAP. Consequently, PTAP‐based ZOBs exhibited high reversible capacities and rate performance, delivering 442.45 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.2 A g⁻¹ and maintaining 248.61 mAh g⁻¹ even at 10 A g⁻¹. Additionally, a ZOB showed remarkable long‐term stability after cycling over 900 hours at 5 A g⁻¹. Mechanistic studies further revealed that multi‐step coupling of carbonyl and azo groups accompanied by the Zn2+/H+ dual‐ion insertion is responsible for rapid 12‐electron transfer in PTAP.
Investigation of PEO/HEC Composite Fiber Fabrication and Liquid‐Wall Slip Behavior in Rotary Force Spinning
Authors: Ma Jianwei , Wang Yi , Chen Zhen , Zhang Zhiming , Ji Qiaoling
Published: February 2025

Composite fibers are widely applied in biomedical, renewable energy, and environmental fields. Currently, their fabrication methods are a key area of research. As an emerging technology, rotary force spinning shows great potential for composite fiber production. This paper proposes the liquid‐wall slip phenomenon of polymer solution in the nozzle during rotary force spinning. A parameter model of the nozzle is established to analyze the motion of the polymer solution and the factors influencing its liquid‐wall slip. Finally, polyoxyethylene (PEO)/hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) composite fibers are prepared under conditions of 900–2500 rpm, 6 wt.% PEO solution concentration, 3, 4, and 5 wt.% HEC solution concentration, and nozzle diameters of 26G, 27G, 28G, and 29G. Rheometer and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) are employed to analyze the rheology of PEO and HEC solutions, as well as the morphology of the composite fibers, to verify the impact of liquid‐wall slip on fiber formation. Furthermore, the optimal parameter range for preparing PEO/HEC composite fibers using rotary force spinning is identified. This study provides theoretical and empirical support for the preparation of high‐quality composite fibers using rotary force spinning.
Social Clustering and Conservation Implications for Critically Endangered Taiwanese Humpback Dolphins (Sousa chinensis taiwanensis)
Authors: Bai Mei‐Ling , Huang Chieh Ning , Lien Yu‐Yi
Published: February 2025

In social species, social relationships of an individual play a crucial role in its fitness, and the social structure of a population can be vital to its viability. This study investigated the social network of the critically endangered Taiwanese humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis taiwanensis) population during the periods 2017–2020 and 2021–2023. We observed a reduction in the strength and reach of the social network compared with a decade ago. The population could be divided into three clusters, each characterized by distinct age compositions and network metrics, with limited intercluster associations and minimal overlap in core areas. The decline and ageing of the northern cluster suggested the need for further research into its habitat quality. In the central cluster, which previously had high calf sighting rates, low intracluster association and a limited number of young individuals raised concerns about reproductive constraints. The southern cluster, although most socially vigorous, partly occupied areas outside the protected zone. Our findings emphasized the need for cluster‐specific management strategies to enhance conservation efforts.
Human interparietal bones: Examination of existing classification schemes and development of a graphic library depicting variations
Authors: Clarkson Melissa D. , Dunn Rhian R. , Hefner Joseph T. , Long Holly A. , Spiros Micayla C.
Published: February 2025

Due to its complex ossification during development, the superior region of the human occipital bone is a frequent site of supernumerary bones known as interparietal bones. Interparietal bones have been extensively studied across various disciplines, resulting in multiple classification schemes using icon‐like graphics to represent categories of interparietal variants. However, disparities across these classification schemes reveal the need for a standardized system to facilitate comparisons and permit data pooling across studies. Based on an extensive literature review and the examination of physical specimens, a graphic library of 80 evidence‐based graphics capturing interparietal variants was designed for community use. It provides five graphics of different morphologies of the lambdoid suture, 64 graphics of interparietal bones, six of ossicles at lambda, three of mendosal suture variants, and two of intrasutural ossicles. This approach allows additional graphics to be added in the future as needed. Graphics are compared to those from existing classification schemes and an exercise using the graphics to classify crania was performed. In the broadest sense, this research establishes a model for improved practices in representing and sharing morphological data.
Social Determinants of Health Predict Sleep–Wake Disturbances Among Patients Living With Primary Brain Tumors: A Cross‐Sectional Analysis
Authors: Wright Michelle L. , Miller Hope , Vera Elizabeth , Acquaye‐Mallory Alvina A. , Chavis Brayden , Choi Anna , Grajkowska Ewa , Kunst Tricia , Johnson Morgan , Karim Zuena , McIver Bennett , Managoli Madhura , Reyes Jennifer , Armstrong Terri S. , King Amanda L.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Sleep disturbance (SD) and sleep‐related impairment (SRI) significantly impact the lives of primary brain tumor (PBT) patients. We aimed to describe the prevalence of SD and SRI in this population, determine the reliability of the PROMIS‐SD and PROMIS‐SRI instruments, and identify predictive factors to support the development of targeted interventions for at‐risk individuals.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study evaluated SD and SRI in PBT patients enrolled in a Natural History Study who completed 1‐year follow‐up questionnaires (N = 229). Demographic, clinical, and socioeconomic data were analyzed to identify factors associated with SD and SRI. Descriptive statistics were used to report the prevalence of sleep problems, and linear regression analysis was conducted to identify predictive factors. The reliability of sleep‐related instruments was calculated using Cronbach's alpha.

Results

Fifteen percent of PBT participants reported clinically significant SD and 20% reported clinically significant SRI, which were associated with financial toxicity (p < 0.001), being unemployed (p ≤ 0.02), and taking psychotropic medication (p ≤ 0.002). Good internal consistency was demonstrated by the SD (0.923) and SRI (0.925) questionnaires in this population.

Conclusions

In this study, social factors such as financial toxicity and employment status were associated with SD and SRI. Psychotropic medications also impacted SD and SRI in PTB survivors, but less so than financial toxicity. Social factors and other medications may impact sleep more strongly in PBT survivors than their previous treatment courses.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

SD and SRI can be impacted by multiple factors, including those not related to PBT treatment, which should be considered by their providers.
Gain insight into potential implications of Title IX's intersection with NIL
Authors: Bowers Blaze
Published: February 2025

Although Title IX has long been familiar to college athletics, the name, image, and likeness enterprise may forever change our equity calculus in yet‐to‐be‐determined ways. Title IX saw substantial changes in 2024 with the Biden administration's new regulations, but proposed athletic‐specific regulations were never implemented. Now, the 2024 regulations have been vacated by a federal court in Kentucky and even more changes loom with a new presidential administration. Meanwhile, the world of NIL has burgeoned, introducing a new and dynamic array of policy and practice quandaries.
Caveolae Modulate the Activity of LRRC8‐Mediated VRAC by the Structural Membrane Protein Caveolin‐1
Authors: Liu Yan , Li Xing , Huo Cong , Hou Liming , Jia Xin , Xu Rong , Yang Jie , Wang Xiaoming
Published: February 2025

The volume‐regulated anion channel (VRAC) plays a critical role in cell volume regulation and other fundamental physiological processes. However, the mechanism of how VRAC is activated and modulated has not been completely clarified. Caveolin‐1 (Cav‐1), as an important ion channel binding protein, forms complexes with channel proteins and exchangers to regulate channel activity and function. The purpose of this study was to explore the importance and value of Cav‐1 in cardiac VRAC activation and regulation. In the study, we proved that the membrane protein LRRC8A was detected in the same caveolae‐enriched fractions, as the same as Caveolin‐1 in ventricular myocytes. The intracellular Cl− concentration increased and the cell volume decreased dramatically after caveolae being destroyed in cardiomyocytes. Moreover, we found that ICl,vol decreased not only in LRRC8A silencing cardiomyocytes but also in Cav‐1 silencing cardiomyocytes, which indicated that caveolin‐1 may affect the function of VRAC. Then we further explore the physical relationship between LRRC8A and Cav‐1 in cell membrane. We observed that the fluorescence label of LRRC8A was overlapping with Cav‐1 in the cell plasma membrane and caveolin‐1 co‐immunoprecipitated with LRRC8A, which demonstrated that Cav‐1 is the basis of VRAC channel activation by acting on LRRC8A. The whole study provides further evidence of the relevance of Cav‐1 on the activation and modulation of endothelial LRRC8A‐mediated VRAC.
A Case of Post‐Partum Afebrile Perforated Appendicitis: A Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Halder Arindam , Jha Tulika , Basak Raja , Roy Samir , Mukherjee Dattatreya , Akilimali Aymar
Published: February 2025

There are a couple of references in literature reporting the incidence of acute appendicitis during pregnancy, and the incidence rate is 0.4–1.4 per 1000 pregnancies. Acute appendicitis and perforated acute appendicitis in the postpartum period are rare incidences. Fever and abdominal pain are very common symptoms in acute appendicitis. Here, we are presenting a case of postpartum acute perforated appendicitis. A 34‐year‐old female was admitted in the department of obstetrics and gynecology with abdominal pain and severe abdominal tenderness. The cervical os was dilated, so the patient was taken to the labor room where she delivered a very low birth weight baby at 22 weeks. After delivery, patient developed respiratory distress and there was a sudden deterioration in her condition. She was then shifted to the critical care unit. The case was managed and the patient's respiratory distress lessened but the abdominal pain and tenderness still persisted. Plain radiography was done and it showed “gas under diaphragm.” The CT scan also showed pneumoperitoneum and a decision was taken to perform an emergency laparotomy. On laparotomy, perforated appendicitis was found. Diagnosis of acute abdomen in pregnancy and the early postpartum period is very confusing, but an early diagnosis is always important. In antenatal screening, an ultrasound of the whole abdomen should be mandated in 30+ years old pregnant women. Surgery is the recommended treatment in such cases.
Reaction of a Potassium Aluminyl with Sn[N(SiMe3)2]2 ‐ Isolation of a Stable, Trimetallic Sn(I) Radical Anion
Authors: O’Reilly Andrea , Booth Andrew M. S. , Smith George W. A. , Evans Matthew J. , Lim Li Feng , Pantazis Dimitrios A. , Cox Nicholas , McMullin Claire L. , Fulton J. Robin , Coles Martyn P
Published: February 2025

The reaction of the potassium aluminyl K[Al(NON)] ([NON]2– = [O(SiMe2NDipp)2]2–, Dipp = 2,6‐iPr2C6H3) with the stannylene Sn[N(SiMe3)2]2 in benzene afforded K3[(Sn4){Al(NON)}2{N(SiMe3)2}], containing a distorted tetrahedral Sn4‐cluster. Computational analysis indicates that four of the edges in this unit are composed of Sn–Sn bonds, with the remaining two that are spanned by aluminium involved in three centre two electron (3c2e) Sn–Al–Sn bonds. The formation of Al(II) species during this reaction is indicated by the isolation of the dialuminated cyclohexadiene 1,4‐[Al(NON)]2(μ‐C6H6). Repeating the reaction in methylcyclohexane generated a thermally stable, trimetallic Sn(I) radical anion in K[Sn{Al(NON)}2]. Compared to all other reported Sn(I) radicals, its EPR spectrum is unique; the main turning points of its spectrum appear at g values above 2 and the Sn hyperfine coupling is substantially smaller in magnitude. These data, together with ENDOR measurements and DFT calculations show that the SOMO is entirely localised in an unhybridised 5p orbital, such that spin‐orbit contributions to the g and Sn hyperfine tensors are quenched.
Insights into Clinical Trials for Drugs Targeting MASLD: Progress, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Wu Yu , Dong Pu , Wu Qifang , Zhang Ya , Xu Gang , Pan Chenwei , Tong Haibin
Published: February 2025

The transition in terminology from fatty liver disease to metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) marks a considerable evolution in diagnostic standards. This new definition focuses on liver fat accumulation in the context of overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes, or metabolic dysfunction, without requiring the exclusion of other concurrent liver diseases. The new definition also provides clear guidelines for defining alcohol consumption in relation to the disease. MASLD is currently acknowledged as the most widespread liver disorder globally, affecting ~25% of the population. Despite the extensive array of clinical trials conducted in recent years, the number of approved treatments for metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease is very limited. In the review critically evaluates the results of clinical trials of related drugs and assesses the future directions for drug development trials. The renaming of MASLD presents new challenges and opportunities for the design of clinical trials and the selection of target populations for drug development.
Enigmatic Headstands in European Freshwater Fish Species
Authors: Tušer Michal , Frouzová Jaroslava
Published: February 2025

This study discloses a remarkable and rarely documented behavior among two cyprinid species—the common bleak (Alburnus alburnus) and the common roach (Rutilus rutilus)—and one percid species, the European perch (Perca fluviatilis). The primary aim was to reevaluate this distinct behavior, termed “headstand”, and explore its potential implications for fish behavior and ecology. We utilized video recording to observe and analyze this behavior. Fish were monitored in an enclosure with near‐natural conditions. Instances of headstanding behavior—where fish assume a head‐down posture at angles between 45° and 90°—were documented. The video analysis revealed the occurrence of headstanding behavior in all three species, lasting from a few seconds to over a minute. This behavior was observed both individually and in groups, sometimes involving multiple species simultaneously. Group headstands occurred more frequently in the year when water transparency was low. Interestingly, although this behavior was previously proposed as a cleaning signal, no cleaning activity was observed afterward. Our observations suggest that headstanding may serve additional functions beyond a cleaning context, potentially involving foraging, predator avoidance, or social communication. Observing this behavior under diverse conditions highlights its ecological and social relevance. Future work integrating behavioral, ecological, and physiological approaches could clarify the adaptive significance of headstanding employed by these species.
A new Eosin Y and hydroxybenzaldehyde coupled probe for instantaneous sensing of Cu2+ by colorimetric and ‘turn‐off’ fluorescence methods
Authors: Chakraborty Arnab , Das Neeladri
Published: February 2025

Xanthene‐based organic chemosensors for detecting metal ions are a topic of research. While Rhodamine and Fluorescein‐based sensors are more common, fewer research articles exist on Eosin‐based sensors. Herein, a new chemosensor (EY‐S) is reported that was obtained efficiently in two high‐yielding reaction steps from commercially procured Eosin Y. A high magnitude of the Stern‐Volmer (Ksv) constant advocated efficient quenching. Job’s plot confirmed a 1:1 complexation ratio between EY‐S and Cu2+. The association constant (KA) for the host‐guest complexation was determined to be 1.59×105 M−1. The limit of detection (LOD) associated with the detection of Cu2+ was 3.29 nM, indicating the high sensitivity of the EY‐S sensor. Cu2+ detection was also tested using actual water samples collected from various sources, and EY‐S' performance remained uncompromised. The sensor could detect Cu2+ in acidic, neutral, and essential media, with the sensing being most efficient at higher pH. The EY‐S sensor/probe could be easily recycled multiple times without significantly declining Cu2+ detection performance. A mechanism of binding between EY‐S and Cu2+ was also proposed.
Engineering Diesters From Saturated Fatty Acids and C2–C4 Diols: How Branching Influence Rheological, Flow, and Crystallization Properties
Authors: Fortunato Michele Emanuele , Vitiello Rosa , Taddeo Francesco , Faro Luigi , Mallardo Salvatore , Turco Rosa , Tesser Riccardo , Russo Vincenzo , Di Serio Martino
Published: February 2025

In response to the increasing demand for sustainable materials, this study explores the structure–property relationships of 22 novel diesters synthesized from C2–C4 linear and branched diols and saturated fatty acids (SFAs), targeting the improvement of vegetable oil‐based lubricants’ oxidative stability and low‐temperature performance. Diesters based on pelargonic (C9), lauric (C12), myristic (C14), and palmitic (C16) acids were characterized for viscosity, crystallization temperature, and flow behavior. Branched diols significantly enhanced low‐temperature properties, with 1,2‐butanediol and 1,3‐butanediol diesters always exhibiting the lowest crystallization temperatures. Viscosity increased with fatty acid chain length, whereas branching caused a slight reduction due to steric hindrance. Most diesters showed shear‐thickening behavior, modeled by the Herschel–Bulkley equation. Additionally, all diesters demonstrated excellent oxidative stability, surpassing 300 min in accelerated aging tests. These findings suggest that the synthesized diesters, particularly those with branched diols, offer promise as sustainable, high‐performance alternatives for industrial lubricant applications.

Practical Application: The diesters synthesized from saturated fatty acids and C2–C4 diols offer strong potential as bases for bio‐based lubricants, particularly in applications requiring high oxidative stability. The esters, particularly those derived from branched diols, exhibit improved cold flow properties, due to their lower crystallization temperatures, making them ideal candidates for use in industries requiring lubricants that perform well in low‐temperatures conditions. Their shear‐thickening behavior also makes them ideal for shock‐absorbing uses. The comprehensive analysis and results presented in this study provide a valuable reference for selecting the optimal combination of fatty acids and alcohols to tailor synthetic esters with specific properties, addressing diverse needs in the lubricant industry. This work serves as a practical guide for developing high‐performance, sustainable lubricant formulations.
An Electrochemical Platform Constructed with Tantalum Nanoparticles and Graphene Nanoplatelets for the Voltammetric Sensing of Ritodrine
Authors: Beyyavaş Ebru , Aslanoglu Mehmet
Published: February 2025

Tantalum (Ta) nanoparticles were synthesized by the reaction of lithium with pyridine solution of TaCl5 via ultrasonication. Then, Ta nanoparticles and graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) were utilized to construct a novel sensing platform for the voltammetric detection of ritodrine. The electrochemically active surface area and charge transfer resistance (Rct) of the proposed electrochemical platform (GCE/GNP@Ta) were determined to be 0.336 cm2 and 86 Ω. This indicates that proposed material can be considered as a promising material in sensing applications. The performance of GCE/GNP@Ta was examined for ritodrine oxidation process and compared with other electrodes. GCE/GNP@Ta improved the voltammetric behavior of ritodrine and exhibited an oxidation peak potential (Ep) of 0.71 V, which is less than that of other electrodes. The potential shift and peak improvement of ritodrine indicated the higher electrocatalytic activity of electrode modified with GNP@Ta. GCE/GNP@Ta exhibited a working range from 4.0 × 10−8 to 1.5 × 10−6 M with a detection limit of 1.0 × 10−9 M (3sb/m) for ritodrine. The voltammetric measurements yielded excellent accuracy and high precision for ritodrine in biological samples.
Chronology, Geochemical Characterisation and Tectonic Background of Early Cretaceous Volcanic Rocks in the Lengjimanda Plate, Da Hinggan Mountains
Authors: ShiChang Wang , YuJie Hao , Zhen Tang , Lu Shi
Published: February 2025

The Lengjimanda Plate in the central Da Hinggan Mountains is mainly composed of a series of acid volcanic rocks such as rhyolites and rhyolitic crystal tuffs of the Early Cretaceous Baiyingaolao and Guanghua formations. LA‐ICP‐MS zircon U–Pb dating indicates that rhyolites of the Baiyingaolao Formation formed between 140 and 137 Ma, while rhyolites of the Guanghua Formation formed between 129 and 128 Ma. Rocks of the Baiyingaolao Formation exhibit the characteristics of high silica contents, alkali enrichment and aluminium depletion, thus resembling A‐type granites. They show significant fractionation of light and heavy rare earth elements with a pronounced negative Eu anomaly. They zircon 176Hf/177Hf ratios range from 0.282932 to 0.252800, with an average εHf(t) value of +1.28; (87Sr/86Sr)i ranges from 0.68848 to 0.70068, with εNd(t) ranging from +1.4 to +3.7; and tDM2 ranges from 629 to 817 Ma, indicating magma derived from newly formed young crustal material after the closure of the Mongolian‐Okhotsk Ocean. The volcanic rocks of the Guanghua Formation have characteristics that are similar to I‐Type granites, with silica and alkali enrichment and Ca and Mg depletion. They also show a right‐skewed “V”‐shaped pattern in their REE distribution curves, with a strong negative Eu anomaly. The zircon 176Hf/177Hf ratios range from 0.282887 to 0.282986, with an average εHf(t) value of +8.78; (87Sr/86Sr)i ranges from 0.70060 to 0.70096, with εNd(t) ranging from +3.0 to +3.8; and tDM2 ranges from 616 to 677 Ma, indicating the partial melting of depleted mantle‐derived mafic lower crustal material, influenced by the closure of the Mongolian‐Okhotsk Ocean and subduction of the ancient Pacific Plate.
Wellbeing Dynamics Across Cultures During the Pandemic: A Five‐Country Exploration
Authors: Hartle Larissa , Bortolini Tiago , Karl Johannes , Sokolov Boris , Fischer Ronald
Published: February 2025

Wellbeing levels have been a global concern during the COVID‐19 pandemic, but there is a lack of attention to invariance questions that allow a robust examination of wellbeing dynamics across cultures. Questions of temporal stability that are crucial for examining the impact of the pandemic on wellbeing have received even less attention. Some studies suggested that measures may not be stable after the onset of the pandemic. We examine invariance parameters, the factorial structure and variability of wellbeing variables (life satisfaction, pandemic worries, anxiety and depression screenings) across five different cultural contexts from 2020 to 2022 (N = 4387, total observations = 13,161). A three‐factor model separating life satisfaction, worry and distress performed best in terms of model fit and parsimony. We observed scalar invariance across times and identified little variability of wellbeing measures during the pandemic, suggesting that wellbeing levels remained stable during the pandemic in each of the countries sampled. In contrast, we only identified metric invariance across countries at each time point, and found a weakening of correlations between life satisfaction and a depressive/anxious symptoms scale in lower income countries. We discuss implications of our findings for discussions of wellbeing dynamics.