bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioral Changes Associated With Testing HIV-Positive Among Sexually Transmitted Infection Clinic Patients In Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Kalichman Seth C. , Cain Demetria , Simbayi Leickness C.
Published: February 2010

Objectives. We sought to examine behavioral risks and behavior changes associated with testing HIV-positive among sexually transmitted infection (STI) patients, in order to inform HIV- and STI-prevention interventions.

Methods. We performed a cohort study of 29 STI patients who seroconverted from HIV-negative to HIV-positive during 1 year of observation and 77 STI patients who persistently tested HIV-negative. Computerized behavioral interviews were collected at baseline and at 1 year, and STI clinic charts were abstracted over the same 1-year period.

Results. The STI patients who reported genital bleeding during sexual activity at baseline were significantly more likely to test HIV-positive. Reductions in number of sexual partners and rates of unprotected intercourse occurred for all STI clinic patients regardless of whether they tested HIV-positive.

Conclusions. Although risk reductions occurred, 5% of HIV-negative STI clinic patients subsequently tested HIV-positive over 1 year. Behavioral risk-reduction interventions are urgently needed for male and female STI clinic patients.
Financial Strain and Smoking Cessation Among Racially/Ethnically Diverse Smokers
Authors: Kendzor Darla E. , Businelle Michael S. , Costello Tracy J. , Castro Yessenia , Reitzel Lorraine R. , Cofta-Woerpel Ludmila M. , Li Yisheng , Mazas Carlos A. , Vidrine Jennifer Irvin , Cinciripini Paul M. , Greisinger Anthony J. , Wetter David W.
Published: February 2010

Objectives. We evaluated the influence of financial strain on smoking cessation among Latino, African American, and Caucasian smokers of predominantly low socioeconomic status.

Methods. Smokers enrolled in a smoking cessation study (N = 424) were followed from 1 week prequit through 26 weeks postquit. We conducted a logistic regression analysis to evaluate the association between baseline financial strain and smoking abstinence at 26 weeks postquit after control for age, gender, race/ethnicity, educational level, annual household income, marital status, number of cigarettes smoked per day, and time to first cigarette of the day.

Results. Greater financial strain at baseline was significantly associated with reduced odds of abstinence at 26 weeks postquit among those who completed the study (odds ratio [OR] = 0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.62, 0.94; P = .01). There was a significant association as well in analyses that included those who completed the study in addition to those lost to follow-up who were categorized as smokers (OR = 0.78; 95% CI = 0.64, 0.96; P = .02).

Conclusions. Greater financial strain predicted lower cessation rates among racially/ethnically diverse smokers. Our findings highlight the impact of economic concerns on smoking cessation and the need to address financial strain in smoking cessation interventions.
Selective Schools and Academic Achievement
Authors: Clark Damon
Published: February 2010

In this paper I consider the impact of attending a selective high school in the UK. Students are assigned to these schools on the basis of a test taken in primary school and, using data on these assignment test scores for a particular district, I exploit this rule to estimate the causal effects of selective schools on test scores, high school course taking and university enrollment. Despite the huge peer advantage enjoyed by selective school students, I show that four years of selective school attendance generates at best small effects on test scores. Selective schools do however have positive effects on course-taking and, more suggestively, university enrollment, evidence suggesting they may have important longer run impacts.
The Impact of Secondary Condom Interventions on the Interpretation of Results from HIV Prevention Trials
Authors: Shiboski Stephen , Rosenblum Michael , Jewell Nicholas P.
Published: February 2010

Given the recent failure of a number of randomized trials to demonstrate effectiveness of proposed methods for prevention of sexual transmission of HIV, novel approaches to study design and analysis that address adherence and other post-randomization behaviors are of increasing interest. The inclusion of a mandatory condom use intervention in all randomized groups in such trials can significantly impact interpretation of study results, especially when levels of use observed in the study may differ from real world levels.We use quantitative examples and simulations to investigate this issue, focusing on effectiveness estimated by the standard intention to treat analysis approach. We also assess the application of recently developed methods for estimating the causal effect of treatment assignment, accounting for observed levels of condom use.Results show that observed levels of condom use may have substantial impacts on the conclusions drawn from standard analyses of prevention trials, with the most serious effects observed in studies with unblinded control groups. Causal estimation methods accounting for post-randomization behaviors can help clarify these impacts by focusing attention on effectiveness for controlled levels of condom use.Supplemental causal analyses that account for post-randomization condom use may provide useful information about possible efficacy that complement standard analyses. However, interpretation of results may be limited by the quality of available data on adherence behavior, and limited statistical power.
Kinematics of Rising From a Chair: Image-Based Analysis of the Sagittal Hip-Spine Movement Pattern in Elderly People Who Are Healthy
Authors: Fotoohabadi Mohammad R. , Tully Elizabeth A. , Galea Mary P.
Published: February 2010

Background

Rehabilitation of elderly patients with sit-to-stand (STS) dysfunction includes retraining coordinated movement among participating body segments. Although trunk position is considered important, spinal movement has not been measured.

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe the sagittal thoracolumbar kinematics and hip-lumbar interaction during the STS task in elderly people who were healthy in order to guide physical therapists in developing treatment strategies.

Design

This was an observational study.

Methods

Ten retroreflective markers were attached to the midline thoracolumbar spine, pelvis, and right lower limb of 41 elderly people who were healthy. A 2-dimensional video analysis system was used to measure sagittal thoracic, lumbar, hip, and knee joint angles during the STS task. Maximal available flexion-extension angles in these joints and regions also were determined.

Results

Prior to buttocks lift-off, forward trunk lean comprised concurrent hip and lumbar flexion and thoracic extension. Hip flexion dominated, with a hip/lumbar ratio of 4.7:1 and a thoracic/lumbar ratio of 1.7:1. The hip and lumbar spine contributed 90% and 23% of their maximal available flexion angle, respectively, and the thoracic spine contributed 86% of its maximal extension range of movement. After lift-off, the hips and lumbar spine extended (ratio of 5.2:1), and the thoracic spine flexed (thoracic/lumbar ratio of 0.4:1). At lift-off, the hips and knees were similarly flexed (96°) and then locked together in a linear pattern of extension. Following lift-off, there was a brief transition phase (5% of STS duration) in which, although the hips, knees, and lumbar spine were extending, the trunk continued to flex forward a few degrees.

Limitations

Results may differ in elderly people who are less active.

Conclusions

The revised model for image-based analysis demonstrated concurrent hip and thoracolumbar movement during the STS task. Close to full available hip flexion and thoracic extension were needed for optimal STS performance.
Comparison of T1-weighted fast spin-echo and T1-weighted fluid-attenuated inversion recovery images of the lumbar spine at 3.0 tesla
Authors: Lavdas Eleftherios , Vlychou Marianna , Arikidis Nikos , Kapsalaki Eftychia , Roka Violetta , Fezoulidis Ioannis V.
Published: February 2010

Background: T1-weighted fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) sequence has been reported to provide improved contrast between lesions and normal anatomical structures compared to T1-weighted fast spin-echo (FSE) imaging at 1.5T regarding imaging of the lumbar spine.

Purpose: To compare T1-weighted FSE and fast T1-weighted FLAIR imaging in normal anatomic structures and degenerative and metastatic lesions of the lumbar spine at 3.0T.

Material and Methods: Thirty-two consecutive patients (19 females, 13 males; mean age 44 years, range 30–67 years) with lesions of the lumbar spine were prospectively evaluated. Sagittal images of the lumbar spine were obtained using T1-weighted FSE and fast T1-weighted FLAIR sequences. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses measuring the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and relative contrast (ReCon) between degenerative and metastatic lesions and normal anatomic structures were conducted, comparing these sequences.

Results: On quantitative evaluation, SNRs of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), nerve root, and fat around the root of fast T1-weighted FLAIR imaging were significantly lower than those of T1-weighted FSE images ( P<0.001). CNRs of normal spinal cord/CSF and disc herniation/ CSF for fast T1-weighted FLAIR images were significantly higher than those for T1-weighted FSE images ( P<0.001). ReCon of normal spinal cord/CSF, disc herniation/CSF, and vertebral lesions/CSF for fast T1-weighted FLAIR images were significantly higher than those for T1-weighted FSE images ( P<0.001). On qualitative evaluation, it was found that CSF nulling and contrast at the spinal cord (cauda equina)/CSF interface for T1-weighted FLAIR images were significantly superior compared to those for T1-weighted FSE images ( P<0.001), and the disc/spinal cord (cauda equina) interface was better for T1-weighted FLAIR images ( P<0.05).

Conclusion: The T1-weighted FLAIR sequence may be considered as the preferred lumbar spine imaging sequence compared to T1-weighted FSE, as it has demonstrated superior CSF nulling, better conspicuousness of normal anatomic structures and degenerative and metastatic lesions, and improved image contrast.
Clinical profile of patients with pleural effusion admitted to KMCTH
Authors: Dhital KR , Acharya R , Bhandari R , Kharel P , Giri KP , Tamrakar R
Published: February 2010

Background: pleural effusion is the common findings in patients presenting with cardiopulmonary symptoms but specific studies are lacking in Nepal. Objective: The main objective of this study is to find out the various causes of pleural effusion, their mode of clinical presentation and laboratory analysis of blood and pleural fluid to aid diagnosis of patients with pleural effusion. Materials and methods: Retrospective data from July 2009 to July 2007 from all the cases diagnosed with pleural effusion were taken. Altogether 100 cases diagnosed with pleural effusion by chest X-ray (Posterior- Anterior and Lateral view) and Ultrasonogram of the chest were studied. The following parameters were analysed: Patients demographic profile, causes, location (Unilateral, Bilateral), Blood haemoglobin and count, sputum profile, Monteux test, chest Xray and USG findings and pleural fluid analysis[Biochemical, Haematological, Microbiological(culture and stain) and cytological]. This study was analysed by using SPSS 16. Results: The mean age of the patient was 44.89 ± 21.59 and must patients with pleural effusion belong to age group 21- 30. Most common cause of pleural effusion was found to be tubercular effusion followed by parapneumonic effusion. Right sided effusion was seen in most cases of tubercular parapneumonic and malignant effusion whereas bilateral effusion was seen in 87.5% of the patient (7 out of 8) having congestive heart failure and all cases of renal disease (4 out of 4). Shortness of breath (83%), cough (67%) and fever (66%) are the most common mode of clinical presentation. Conclusion: Our study concluded that the most common cause of unilateral pleural effusion is tuberculosis followed by parapneumonic effusion and most cases of those belong to younger age group (21 -30yrs) and most common cause of bilateral pleural effusion is congestive cardiac failure. Key words: Pleural effusion; Tuberculosis; pneumonia; malignancy; protein; ADA DOI: 10.3126/kumj.v7i4.2772 Kathmandu University Medical Journal (2009) Vol.7, No.4 Issue 28, 438-444
Campylobacter Peritonitis Complicating Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis: Report of Three Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Elshafie Sittana S. , Asim Muhammad , Ashour Adel , Elhiday Abdul Haleem , Mohsen Thoraya , Doiphode Sanjay
Published: February 2010

Background

The micro-organisms involved in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) peritonitis are usually gram-positive cocci of cutaneous origin. Campylobacter species are rarely implicated as a cause of CAPD peritonitis.

Methods

A retrospective review of 100 consecutive episodes of peritonitis was carried out in patients undergoing CAPD or automated PD in our hospital from June 2004 to December 2007. Collection of dialysate and microbial examination was done according to ISPD guidelines. Identification of the organism was made on the basis of Gram smear morphology, positive oxidase test, and biochemical reactions using API Campi (BioMérieux, Marcy l'Étoile, France). Susceptibility testing was performed using E-test (AB Biodisc, Solna, Sweden) and confirmation was done by molecular techniques.

Results

The causative organisms in 23 of these episodes were gram-negative bacteria, 3 of which were identified as Campylobacter species using special culture techniques. The clinical presentation in our patients with Campylobacter peritonitis (CP) was different from that of patients with peritonitis from other organisms in that all 3 had diarrhea at presentation. Among patients with CP, no subspecies-specific feature was identified. Good response to the antibiotic treatment was observed; there was no relapse/recurrence of peritonitis, catheter loss, or death.

Conclusion

Incidence of CP remains low and, regardless of the subtype, clinical outcomes are better than those seen with other gram-negative bacteria such as Pseudomonas. The presence of diarrhea at presentation and the finding of curved or spiral gram-negative bacilli in the Gram smear of peritoneal dialysis effluent should make one think of CP. The use of appropriate microbiology techniques in this situation will increase the isolation of this organism.
First Case of CAPD-Related Peritonitis Caused by Morganella Morganii
Authors: Atalay H. , Güney I. , Solak Y. , Almaz E.
Published: February 2010

Morganella morganii, a gram-negative bacillus, is a rare cause of peritonitis. In this article we report a 55-year-old female patient with peritonitis due to Morganella morganii who was receiving continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).
Differential Recruitment of Activating and Inhibitory FcγRII during Phagocytosis
Authors: Syam Sujata , Mero Patricia , Pham Theodore , McIntosh Courtney A. , Bruhns Pierre , Booth James W.
Published: February 2010

Human myeloid cells express both activating and inhibitory receptors of the FcγRII family. FcγRIIA mediates processes associated with cell activation, including phagocytosis of IgG-opsonized particles, whereas coengagement of the inhibitory FcγRIIB downregulates such signaling. We analyzed the relative recruitment of these two receptors during phagocytosis of IgG-coated particles by ts20 Chinese hamster fibroblast cells cotransfected with both receptors carrying distinguishable fluorescent protein tags. We found that FcγRIIA is substantially enriched at sites of particle binding relative to its inhibitory counterpart, with a greater than 2-fold increase in the local ratio of activating to inhibitory receptor compared with that for the plasma membrane as a whole. Experiments with chimeric receptors revealed that the preferential enrichment of FcγRIIA results from differences between the extracellular domains of the receptors, and indicated that the lesser recruitment of FcγRIIB limits its ability to effectively inhibit FcγRIIA-mediated phagocytosis. Mutagenesis studies indicated that FcγRIIA residues leucine 132 and phenylalanine 160, which lie in IgG-binding regions of FcγRIIA and which differ in FcγRIIB, both contribute to the local relative enrichment of FcγRIIA by increasing its affinity for IgG1 relative to that of FcγRIIB. In human monocytes, engagement of approximately equal amounts of FcγRIIB was required to substantially inhibit FcγRIIA-mediated phagocytosis. These results demonstrate that differences in affinity for IgG between activating and inhibitory FcγR can result in substantial local changes in their relative concentrations during phagocytosis, with important functional consequences.
Small-Molecule Inhibitors of Vascular Adhesion Protein-1 Reduce the Accumulation of Myeloid Cells into Tumors and Attenuate Tumor Growth in Mice
Authors: Marttila-Ichihara Fumiko , Castermans Karolien , Auvinen Kaisa , oude Egbrink Mirjam G. A. , Jalkanen Sirpa , Griffioen Arjan W. , Salmi Marko
Published: February 2010

Vascular adhesion protein-1 (VAP-1) is an endothelial, cell surface–expressed oxidase involved in leukocyte traffic. The adhesive function of VAP-1 can be blocked by anti–VAP-1 Abs and small-molecule inhibitors. However, the effects of VAP-1 blockade on antitumor immunity and tumor progression are unknown. In this paper, we used anti–VAP-1 mAbs and small-molecule inhibitors of VAP-1 in B16 melanoma and EL-4 lymphoma tumor models in C57BL/6 mice. Leukocyte accumulation into tumors and neoangiogenesis were evaluated by immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and intravital videomicroscopy. We found that both anti–VAP-1 Abs and VAP-1 inhibitors reduced the number of leukocytes in the tumors, but they targeted partially different leukocyte subpopulations. Anti–VAP-1 Abs selectively inhibited infiltration of CD8-positive lymphocytes into tumors and had no effect on accumulation of myeloid cells into tumors. In contrast, the VAP-1 inhibitors significantly reduced only the number of proangiogenic Gr-1+CD11b+ myeloid cells in melanomas and lymphomas. Blocking of VAP-1 by either means left tumor homing of regulatory T cells and type 2 immune-suppressing monocytes/macrophages intact. Notably, VAP-1 inhibitors, but not anti–VAP-1 Abs, retarded the growth of melanomas and lymphomas and reduced tumor neoangiogenesis. The VAP-1 inhibitors also reduced the binding of Gr-1+ myeloid cells to the tumor vasculature. We conclude that tumors use the catalytic activity of VAP-1 to recruit myeloid cells into tumors and to support tumor progression. Small-molecule VAP-1 inhibitors therefore might be a potential new tool for immunotherapy of tumors.
Essential Role of Mitochondrial Antiviral Signaling, IFN Regulatory Factor (IRF)3, and IRF7 in Chlamydophila pneumoniae-Mediated IFN-β Response and Control of Bacterial Replication in Human Endothelial Cells
Authors: Buß Claudia , Opitz Bastian , Hocke Andreas C. , Lippmann Juliane , van Laak Vincent , Hippenstiel Stefan , Krüll Matthias , Suttorp Norbert , Eitel Julia
Published: February 2010

Chlamydophila pneumoniae infection of the vascular wall as well as activation of the transcription factor IFN regulatory factor (IRF)3 have been linked to development of chronic vascular lesions and atherosclerosis. The innate immune system detects invading pathogens by use of pattern recognition receptors, some of which are able to stimulate IRF3/7 activation and subsequent type I IFN production (e. g., IFN-β). In this study, we show that infection of human endothelial cells with C. pneumoniae-induced production of IFN-β, a cytokine that so far has been mainly associated with antiviral immunity. Moreover, C. pneumoniae infection led to IRF3 and IRF7 nuclear translocation in HUVECs and RNA interference experiments showed that IRF3 and IRF7 as well as the mitochondrial antiviral signaling (MAVS) were essential for IFN-β induction. Finally, C. pneumoniae replication was enhanced in endothelial cells in which IRF3, IRF7, or MAVS expression was inhibited by small interfering RNA and attenuated by IFN-β treatment. In conclusion, C. pneumoniae infection of endothelial cells activates an MAVS-, IRF3-, and IRF7-dependent signaling, which controls bacterial growth and might modulate development of vascular lesions.
Characterizing the Dynamics of CD4+ T Cell Priming within a Lymph Node
Authors: Linderman Jennifer J. , Riggs Thomas , Pande Manjusha , Miller Mark , Marino Simeone , Kirschner Denise E.
Published: February 2010

Generating adaptive immunity postinfection or immunization requires physical interaction within a lymph node T zone between Ag-bearing dendritic cells (DCs) and rare cognate T cells. Many fundamental questions remain regarding the dynamics of DC–CD4+ T cell interactions leading to priming. For example, it is not known how the production of primed CD4+ T cells relates to the numbers of cognate T cells, Ag-bearing DCs, or peptide-MHCII level on the DC. To address these questions, we developed an agent-based model of a lymph node to examine the relationships among cognate T cell frequency, DC density, parameters characterizing DC–T cell interactions, and the output of primed T cells. We found that the output of primed CD4+ T cells is linearly related to cognate frequency, but nonlinearly related to the number of Ag-bearing DCs present during infection. This addresses the applicability of two photon microscopy studies to understanding actual infection dynamics, because these types of experiments increase the cognate frequency by orders of magnitude compared with physiologic levels. We found a trade-off between the quantity of peptide-major histocompatibility class II on the surface of individual DCs and number of Ag-bearing DCs present in the lymph node in contributing to the production of primed CD4+ T cells. Interestingly, peptide-major histocompatibility class II t1/2 plays a minor, although still significant, role in determining CD4+ T cell priming, unlike the primary role that has been suggested for CD8+ T cell priming. Finally, we identify several pathogen-targeted mechanisms that, if altered in their efficiency, can significantly effect the generation of primed CD4+ T cells.
The p110δ Isoform of Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase Controls the Quality of Secondary Anti-Leishmania Immunity by Regulating Expansion and Effector Function of Memory T Cell Subsets
Authors: Liu Dong , Uzonna Jude E.
Published: February 2010

We showed previously that mice with an inactivating knockin mutation in the p110δ isoform of PI3K (referred to as p110δD910A mice) displayed enhanced primary resistance to Leishmania major despite mounting paradoxically impaired T cell responses. In this study, we show that p110δD910A mice are impaired in their secondary (memory) anti-Leishmania responses in vitro and in vivo. Following secondary L. major challenge, p110δD910A mice exhibited reduced delayed-type hypersensitivity response and weaker parasite control compared to wild-type mice. Using adoptive transfer experiments, we show that immune T cells from healed p110δD910A mice were impaired in their proliferation and effector cytokine (IFN-γ) responses upon L. major challenge. Interestingly, Leishmania-reactive T cells from healed p110δD910A mice contain severalfold lower numbers of CD62Llo and CD62hi T cells than those from healed wild-type mice. The reduction in numbers of CD62Llo T cells in p110δD910A mice is due to failure of their CD62Lhi T cells to downregulate CD62L expression in response to L. major. Furthermore, although CD62Llo cells from p110δD910A mice could home efficiently to lymphoid organs, their ability to exit these tissues and emigrate to cutaneous sites of infection was greatly impaired. Collectively, our data identify PI3K signaling as important events that control memory T cell subset differentiation, generation, effector function, and recruitment to cutaneous tissues and suggest that manipulating this pathway could provide means of enhancing desired memory T cell subset, response during vaccination, or both.
Quality and Accessibility of Liquid Biopsy Information
Authors: Litt Henry K. , Greenstreet-Akman Emma , Trejo Evelin , Florez Narjust , Velazquez Ana I.
Published: May 2024

This cross-sectional study evaluates the information on a circulating tumor DNA test available to the public on popular internet resources.
Malus pumila Mill. cv Annurca apple extract might be therapeutically useful against oxidative stress and patterned hair loss
Authors: Benedetto Nadia , Mangieri Claudia , De Biasio Filomena , Carvalho Ricardo Filipe , Milella Luigi , Russo Daniela
Published: May 2024

Patterned hair loss (PHL) or androgenetic alopecia is a condition affecting about 50% of people worldwide. Several pharmacological medications have been developed over the years, but few studies have investigated their effectiveness. Therefore, new, safer and more effective strategies are required. Recent investigations showed that Annurca apple extract application could induce keratin production and promote hair growth thanks to the high amount of procyanidin B2 contained in. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the role of an Annurca apple extract in preventing PHL by testing it on human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) for the first time. Treatment of HFDPCs with Annurca apple extract counteracted intracellular reactive oxygen species accumulation by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase 2 and catalase. Furthermore, treatment with Annurca apple extract increased β‐catenin and fibroblast growth factor 2, which are involved in hair growth stimulation. These data suggest that Annurca apple extract may be a potential therapeutically useful nutraceutical product for preventing or treating hair loss by reducing oxidative stress and inducing the expression of hair growth‐related factors.
Beyond conventional bounds: Surpassing system limits for stereotactic ablative (SAbR) lung radiotherapy using CBCT‐based adaptive planning system
Authors: Gonzalez Yesenia , Visak Justin , Overman Luke , Liao Chien‐Yi , Yen Allen , Zhuang Tingliang , Cai Bin , Godley Andrew , Zhang Yuanyuan , Timmerman Robert , Iyengar Puneeth , Westover Kenneth , Parsons David , Lin Mu‐Han
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Online adaptive radiotherapy relies on a high degree of automation to enable rapid planning procedures. The Varian Ethos intelligent optimization engine (IOE) was originally designed for conventional treatments so it is crucial to provide clear guidance for lung SAbR plans. This study investigates using the Ethos IOE together with adaptive‐specific optimization tuning structures we designed and templated within Ethos to mitigate inter‐planner variability in meeting RTOG metrics for both online‐adaptive and offline SAbR plans.

Methods

We developed a planning strategy to automate the generation of tuning structures and optimization. This was validated by retrospective analysis of 35 lung SAbR cases (total 105 fractions) treated on Ethos. The effectiveness of our planning strategy was evaluated by comparing plan quality with‐and‐without auto‐generated tuning structures. Internal target volume (ITV) contour was compared between that drawn from CT simulation and from cone‐beam CT (CBCT) at time of treatment to verify CBCT image quality and treatment effectiveness. Planning strategy robustness for lung SAbR was quantified by frequency of plans meeting reference plan RTOG constraints.

Results

Our planning strategy creates a gradient within the ITV with maximum dose in the core and improves intermediate dose conformality on average by 2%. ITV size showed no significant difference between those contoured from CT simulation and first fraction, and also trended towards decreasing over course of treatment. Compared to non‐adaptive plans, adaptive plans better meet reference plan goals (37% vs. 100% PTV coverage compliance, for scheduled and adapted plans) while improving plan quality (improved GI (gradient index) by 3.8%, CI (conformity index) by 1.7%).

Conclusion

We developed a robust and readily shareable planning strategy for the treatment of adaptive lung SAbR on the Ethos system. We validated that automatic online plan re‐optimization along with the formulated adaptive tuning structures can ensure consistent plan quality. With the proposed planning strategy, highly ablative treatments are feasible on Ethos.
A Perceptual and Interactive Integration Strategy Toward Telemedicine Healthcare Based on Electroluminescent Display and Triboelectric Sensing 3D Stacked Device
Authors: Li Yang , Lin Qinghui , Sun Tao , Qin Mingze , Yue Wenjing , Gao Song
Published: May 2024

The conventional medical assistive strategy for wearable devices involves sensing physiological signals and subsequent analysis while it lacks the capability for visual interaction and often necessitates the use of additional bulky devices for display. Herein, a perceptual and interaction strategy based on electroluminescent and triboelectric sensing 3D stacked wearable device (ETD) is proposed to address current issues. The ETD utilizes a bottom triboelectric sensor for tactile physiological information, which is processed and analyzed, ultimately triggering the selective illumination of the top electroluminescent array through external power circuitry. The ETD possesses the capability to generate a 100 V with 1.5 cm2 and stable visual interaction ability at 30 V drive voltage. Based on outstanding features of the ETD, two medical assistance scenarios are explored. I) The ETD captures physiological signals, such as pulse rate, respiratory rate, and special joint flexion, and in situ displays the corresponding physiological information, effectively assisting the patients/elders in self‐monitoring. II) A bidirectional interactive telemedicine assistive system utilizing ETDs is implemented, which not only gathers real‐time activity status from patients/elders but also realizes that remote physician assesses the safety status and the assessment results are wirelessly back‐communicated to the ETD, enabling real‐time interaction of the physician advice.
Induced Diffusion Effect Realizes Heterogeneous Separation/Aggregation for In Situ Fabrication of Heterostructure with Enhanced Catalytic Activity
Authors: Li Hang , Ding Xinyu , Su Mengfei , Zhang Chunyan , Gao Feng , Lu Qingyi
Published: May 2024

Space charge transfer, which can be provided by heterogeneous structure, is the key to efficient electrocatalytic processes. However, difficulty in controlling the relative atomic diffusion rates due to different atomic radii and affinity makes heterogeneous nanostructures difficult to be accurately designed. Herein, an induced diffusion strategy based on affinity differences between elements is proposed to direct the separation/aggregation of different components in the precursor. The key to strategy in this study is the different affinity of Cu and Co to S/P in the precursor of CuCo Prussian blue analogue (PBA). By controlling the molar ratio of S and P during the phosphorization/vulcanization process, induced diffusion can be achieved and leads to directional separation/aggregation of Cu and Co species. As a result, a heterogeneous yolk‐shell Cu2S@CoP2‐C‐N‐S structure is successfully synthesized with a reticular CoP2‐C‐N‐Cu‐S as the shell and a Cu2S nanocrystal as the core. The space charge effect of the semiconductor heterojunction resulting from component separation/aggregation significantly promotes oxygen evolution reaction, resulting in an ultralow overpotential of 180 mV at 10 mA·cm−2. This work not only provides a simple method for efficient separation of key components in gas‐solid systems but also provides a method for fine‐tuning the active site in an active‐site‐engineering approach.
Scavenging Energy and Information through Dynamically Regulating the Electrical Double Layer
Authors: Li Xiang , Wang Zhong Lin , Wei Di
Published: May 2024

The electrical double layer (EDL) between solids and liquids serves as the primary interface for ionic‐electronic coupling and is pivotal in nanoscale phenomena, governing electric field effects, ion transport, surface interactions, etc. Dynamically regulating the EDL through mechanical or electrostatic methods can influence charge carrier behavior, thereby impacting energy scavenging and storage processes. This regulation enabled efficient energy scavenging by governing ionic migration and optimizing charge carrier concentration at the interface, presenting a novel avenue to achieve efficient energy and information flow. Here, various scavenging energy and information devices through dynamically regulating the EDL are systematically reviewed. They are classified into three groups by regulating the distribution and movement of charge carriers throughout the entire EDL, diffuse layer, and Debye length range. The review provided a comprehensive overview of the operating principles, influencing factors, output characteristics, and typical applications, along with a discussion on future challenges. This holistic examination offers researchers valuable insights for evaluating their applicability in various scenarios.
Oxygen‐Centered Organic Radicals‐Involved Unified Heterogeneous Self‐Fenton Process for Stable Mineralization of Micropollutants in Water
Authors: Zhang Liwei , Huang Yuyan , Yan Huijie , Cheng Yingyi , Ye Yu‐Xin , Zhu Fang , Ouyang Gangfeng
Published: May 2024

Removing organic micropollutants from water through photocatalysis is hindered by catalyst instability and substantial residuals from incomplete mineralization. Here, a novel water treatment paradigm, the unified heterogeneous self‐Fenton process (UHSFP), which achieved an impressive 32% photon utilization efficiency at 470 nm, and a significant 94% mineralization of organic micropollutants—all without the continual addition of oxidants and iron ions is presented. In UHSFP, the active species differs fundamentally from traditional photocatalytic processes. One electron acceptor unit of photocatalyst acquires only one photogenerated electron to convert into oxygen‐centered organic radical (OCOR), then spontaneously completing subsequent processes, including pollutant degradation, hydrogen peroxide generation, activation, and mineralization of organic micropollutants. By bolstering electron‐transfer capabilities and diminishing catalyst affinity for oxygen in the photocatalytic process, the generation of superoxide radicals is effectively suppressed, preventing detrimental attacks on the catalyst. This study introduces an innovative and cost‐effective strategy for the efficient and stable mineralization of organic micropollutants, eliminating the necessity for continuous chemical inputs, providing a new perspective on water treatment technologies.
Design of Fluorinated Elastomeric Electrolyte for Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries Operating at Low Temperature and High Voltage
Authors: Park Jinseok , Seong Hyeonseok , Yuk Chanho , Lee Dongkyu , Byun Youyoung , Lee Eunji , Lee Wonho , Kim Bumjoon J.
Published: May 2024

This work demonstrates the low‐temperature operation of solid‐state lithium metal batteries (LMBs) through the development of a fluorinated and plastic‐crystal‐embedded elastomeric electrolyte (F‐PCEE). The F‐PCEE is formed via polymerization‐induced phase separation between the polymer matrix and plastic crystal phase, offering a high mechanical strain (≈300%) and ionic conductivity (≈0.23 mS cm−1) at −10 °C. Notably, strong phase separation between two phases leads to the selective distribution of lithium (Li) salts within the plastic crystal phase, enabling superior elasticity and high ionic conductivity at low temperatures. The F‐PCEE in a Li/LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 full cell maintains 74.4% and 42.5% of discharge capacity at −10 °C and −20 °C, respectively, compared to that at 25 °C. Furthermore, the full cell exhibits 85.3% capacity retention after 150 cycles at −10 °C and a high cut‐off voltage of 4.5 V, representing one of the highest cycling performances among the reported solid polymer electrolytes for low‐temperature LMBs. This work attributes the prolonged cycling lifetime of F‐PCEE at −10 °C to the great mechanical robustness to suppress the Li‐dendrite growth and ability to form superior LiF‐rich interphases. This study establishes the design strategies of elastomeric electrolytes for developing solid‐state LMBs operating at low temperatures and high voltages.
Beaconet: A Reference‐Free Method for Integrating Multiple Batches of Single‐Cell Transcriptomic Data in Original Molecular Space
Authors: Xu Han , Ye Yusen , Duan Ran , Gao Yong , Hu Yuxuan , Gao Lin
Published: May 2024

Integrating multiple single‐cell datasets is essential for the comprehensive understanding of cell heterogeneity. Batch effect is the undesired systematic variations among technologies or experimental laboratories that distort biological signals and hinder the integration of single‐cell datasets. However, existing methods typically rely on a selected dataset as a reference, leading to inconsistent integration performance using different references, or embed cells into uninterpretable low‐dimensional feature space. To overcome these limitations, a reference‐free method, Beaconet, for integrating multiple single‐cell transcriptomic datasets in original molecular space by aligning the global distribution of each batch using an adversarial correction network is presented. Through extensive comparisons with 13 state‐of‐the‐art methods, it is demonstrated that Beaconet can effectively remove batch effect while preserving biological variations and is superior to existing unsupervised methods using all possible references in overall performance. Furthermore, Beaconet performs integration in the original molecular feature space, enabling the characterization of cell types and downstream differential expression analysis directly using integrated data with gene‐expression features. Additionally, when applying to large‐scale atlas data integration, Beaconet shows notable advantages in both time‐ and space‐efficiencies. In summary, Beaconet serves as an effective and efficient batch effect removal tool that can facilitate the integration of single‐cell datasets in a reference‐free and molecular feature‐preserved mode.
Advancements in Aptamer‐Driven DNA Nanostructures for Precision Drug Delivery
Authors: Safarkhani Moein , Ahmadi Sepideh , Ipakchi Hossein , Saeb Mohammad Reza , Makvandi Pooyan , Ebrahimi Warkiani Majid , Rabiee Navid , Huh YunSuk
Published: May 2024

DNA nanostructures exhibit versatile geometries and possess sophisticated capabilities not found in other nanomaterials. They serve as customizable nanoplatforms for orchestrating the spatial arrangement of molecular components, such as biomolecules, antibodies, or synthetic nanomaterials. This is achieved by incorporating oligonucleotides into the design of the nanostructure. In the realm of drug delivery to cancer cells, there is a growing interest in active targeting assays to enhance efficacy and selectivity. The active targeting approach involves a “key‐lock” mechanism where the carrier, through its ligand, recognizes specific receptors on tumor cells, facilitating the release of drugs. Various DNA nanostructures, including DNA origami, Tetrahedral, nanoflower, cruciform, nanostar, nanocentipede, and nanococklebur, can traverse the lipid layer of the cell membrane, allowing cargo delivery to the nucleus. Aptamers, easily formed in vitro, are recognized for their targeted delivery capabilities due to their high selectivity for specific targets and low immunogenicity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in the formation and modification of aptamer‐modified DNA nanostructures within drug delivery systems.
Large Transverse Thermoelectric Power Factor in Topological Semimetal NbAs2
Authors: Wu Shuai , Wang Xincan , Mi Xinrun , Zheng Sikang , Yang Kunya , Zhou Zizhen , Wang Honghui , Han Guang , Lu Xu , Pan Yu , Wang Guoyu , Zhou Xiaoyuan
Published: May 2024

The distinctive properties of topological semimetals, including linear band dispersion and compensated electron‐hole carriers, have positioned these materials at the forefront of research in power generation and solid‐state cooling due to their remarkable magneto‐thermoelectric performance. In this work, the transverse thermoelectric characteristics of the topological semimetal NbAs2 are studied. Specifically, under a magnetic field of 9 T, the Nernst coefficient displays a linear and unsaturated trend, reaching a peak of 600 µV K−1 at 35 K. Consequently, this engenders a substantial transverse power factor (tPF) of 850 µW cm−1 K−2 under a 5 T magnetic field. The exceptional attributes of NbAs2 driven by its remarkably high carrier mobility and compensated electron‐hole concentration near the Fermi level are revealed by band structure analysis based on theoretical calculations and quantum oscillations. This work not only underscores the immense potential of topological semimetals as transverse thermoelectric materials for niche applications where magnetic fields exist but also provides valuable guidance for the discovery and optimization of topological materials for promising thermoelectric performance.
Spatial ecology and thermal preferences of muskellunge within a Midwest impoundment
Authors: Bieber John F. , Suski Cory D.
Published: May 2024

Muskellunge are a valuable sportfish species which has been stocked throughout North America. Stocking is a strategy to generate angling opportunities by introducing species to waterbodies that otherwise would not have contained the fish, such as impoundments and reservoirs. Therefore, understanding the ways fish interact with different waterbodies is critical for managers to understand. To that end, we utilized a year‐long passive telemetry study with muskellunge in a reservoir known for its muskellunge angling. Additionally, we employed temperature loggers to track lake temperatures. We found that smaller female muskellunge were more resident at sites compared to similar‐sized males, although fish did not exhibit site‐specific preferences. We also found that fish moved high distances over the course of the year without time‐specific differences. Furthermore, we found evidence that muskellunge was selected for thermal refuges in the reservoir; however, in summer, when water temperatures were elevated, fish inhabited water, which has been shown to increase incidental mortality. The results of this study indicate a need for muskellunge managers, especially in reservoirs, to consider water temperature in angling regulations. Additionally, our results highlight a need for adding habitat structure in reservoirs and altering stocking densities of fish. Collectively, these results will help inform managers on muskellunge spatial interactions within a reservoir and achieve management goals.
Viologen‐based host–guest supramolecule with tunable intramolecular/intermolecular electron transfer chromism and dynamic fluorescence
Authors: Bai Zhiang , Zhang Haotian , Xue Rui , Lu Xilong , Li Xuyi , MacSwain Walker , Zheng Weiwei , Xu Jiaqiang , Yu Yang , Bai Yue‐Ling
Published: May 2024

Viologen, as a type of strong electron acceptor, is prone to undergo electron transfer (ET) and change color under external stimuli. However, due to the easy aggregation of viologen molecules, they usually suffer from poor fluorescence emission in the condensed phase. Herein, a new viologen derivative of VioCl2·2Cl (12+·2Cl) was designed and synthesized, in which the fluorescence was enhanced by introducing Me‐β‐CD to weaken the interactions between viologen molecules. Then a viologen‐based host–guest supramolecule of 12+@Me‐β‐CD was obtained by electrostatic interactions. Photo‐/chemo‐responded guest 12+ supplies 12+@Me‐β‐CD, a green and dark purple caused by intramolecular and intermolecular ET. Furthermore, 12+@Me‐β‐CD displays an additional thermal responsive purple color. The triple chromic behaviors all exhibit excellent reversibility and cycling stability. As expected, 12+@Me‐β‐CD exhibits strong photoluminescence (PL) in solid–liquid dual states, presenting an improved quantum yield (Φ) from 12+ (Φs = 0.37%, Φl = 16.74%) to 12+@Me‐β‐CD (Φs = 10.45%, Φl = 25.86%), and the fluorescence intensity can be dynamically modulated by light, heat, and acid/base vapors. The multi‐responsive chromism and tunable fluorescence of 12+@Me‐β‐CD allow for potential applications in information security and smart windows.
Lattice Mismatch at the Heterojunction of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Yong , Zheng Dexu , Wang Kai , Yang Qi , Qian Jin , Zhou Jiaju , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Yang Dong
Published: May 2024

Lattice mismatch significantly influences microscopic transport in semiconducting devices, affecting interfacial charge behavior and device efficacy. This atomic‐level disordering, often overlooked in previous research, is crucial for device efficiency and lifetime. Recent studies have highlighted emerging challenges related to lattice mismatch in perovskite solar cells, especially at heterojunctions, revealing issues like severe tensile stress, increased ion migration, and reduced carrier mobility. This review systematically discusses the effects of lattice mismatch on strain, material stability, and carrier dynamics. It also includes detailed characterizations of these phenomena and summarizes current strategies including epitaxial growth and buffer layer, as well as explores future solutions to mitigate mismatch‐induced issues. We also provide the challenges and prospects for lattice mismatch, aiming to enhance the efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells, and contribute to renewable energy technology advancements.
Unnatural Direct Interspecies Electron Transfer Enabled by Living Cell‐Cell Click Chemistry
Authors: Zhao Yi‐Cheng , Sha Chong , Zhao Xing‐Ming , Du Jia‐Xin , Zou Long , Yong Yang‐Chun
Published: May 2024

Direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) is essential for maintaining the function and stability of anaerobic microbial consortia. However, only limited natural DIET modes have been identified and DIET engineering remains highly challenging. In this study, an unnatural DIET between Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 (SO, electron donating partner) and Rhodopseudomonas palustris (RP, electron accepting partner) was artificially established by a facile living cell‐cell click chemistry strategy. By introducing alkyne‐ or azide‐modified monosaccharides onto the cell outer surface of the target species, precise covalent connections between different species in high proximity were realized through a fast click chemistry reaction. Remarkably, upon covalent connection, outer cell surface C‐type cytochromes mediated DIET between SO and RP was achieved and identified, although this was never realized naturally. Moreover, this connection directly shifted the natural H2 mediated interspecies electron transfer (MIET) to DIET between SO and RP, which delivered superior interspecies electron exchange efficiency. Therefore, this work demonstrated a naturally unachievable DIET and an unprecedented MIET shift to DIET accomplished by cell‐cell distance engineering, offering an efficient and versatile solution for DIET engineering, which extends our understanding of DIET and opens up new avenues for DIET exploration and applications.