bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Burden of Comorbid Conditions Among Individuals Screened for Lung Cancer
Authors: Braithwaite Dejana , Karanth Shama , Slatore Christopher G. , Yang Jae Jeong , Tammemagi Martin , Gould Michael K. , Silvestri Gerard A.
Published: February 2025

Importance

Screening for lung cancer with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) has been shown to reduce lung cancer mortality in trials that included relatively younger, healthier, and predominantly White populations. The comorbidity profiles among patients undergoing lung cancer screening in practice settings are poorly understood.

Objective

To evaluate the comorbidity profiles of patients in the Personalized Lung Cancer Screening (PLuS) cohort as a clinical setting vs the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) participants in a clinical trial setting.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This multicenter cohort study was conducted across 3 health care systems in California, Florida, and South Carolina and included patients who underwent LDCT lung cancer screening between 2016 and 2021. Data were analyzed between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2021.

Exposures

Receipt of the LDCT scan identified through Current Procedural Terminology and Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System codes.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Detailed comorbidity data, measures of pulmonary function, and study data abstracted from electronic health records and institutional, Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER), and state registries were compared with self-reported comorbid conditions of participants in the LDCT arm of the NLST.

Results

The PLuS cohort (n = 31 795) included 49.0% participants aged 65 years or older vs 26.6% in the NLST cohort (n = 26 723); 23.3% were individuals of racial and ethnic minority groups in the PLuS cohort compared with 8.5% in the NLST. The prevalence of comorbidity was substantially higher in the PLuS cohort than the NLST group, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (32.7% vs 17.5%), diabetes (24.6% vs 9.7%), and heart disease (15.9% vs 12.9%). Among those in the PLuS cohort, 19.3% had a Charlson Comorbidity Index score of 4 or higher, 18.0% had a frailty index greater than 0.20, 16.9% had a forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV-1) lower than 50% of predicted, and almost 5% had an ejection fraction lower than 40%. The prevalence of multimorbidity and frailty was especially high among those in the 75 years or older age group.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found that the PLuS cohort members were older, had greater illness severity, and more racially and ethnically diverse than the NLST participants. Older patients and those with consequential comorbidity likely had different risk-benefit profiles, which may have affected screening outcomes. The high prevalence of multimorbidity, frailty, and impaired cardiopulmonary function in the PLuS cohort suggests that the balance of benefits and harms observed in the NLST group may not translate to the clinical setting.
Technologies for On‐Site Detection of Plant Pests and Pathogens: An Assessment of Their Benefits and Barriers to Deployment
Authors: Elliott Ashleigh J. , Parr Michael D. , Vazquez‐Iglesias Ines , Gupta Manisha , Tomlinson Jenny , Harrison Catherine , van den Berg Femke
Published: February 2025

Reliable and low‐cost on‐site diagnostics offer significant benefits for the detection and diagnosis of plant pests to enable a rapid response to limit their impact. This review assesses in‐field, on‐site and satellite/remote laboratory‐based diagnostic technologies for the detection of plant pests against the ASSURED criteria, a recognised set of benchmarks used to compare on‐site tests. Despite this assessment identifying a range of technologies that score highly against these criteria, routine uptake of on‐site diagnostics in plant health is limited. Several barriers to uptake exist, the most prevalent being the lack of co‐design of novel technologies with end users leading to the end product being unable to fulfil testing objectives or being unsuitable for usage under common operational conditions. This review also identified a lack of standardised validation data sourced from intended environments in the hands of the intended users, noting that this data would be invaluable in evidencing the efficacy of novel on‐site technologies within a wider testing program. The lack of this information currently limits the routine integration of on‐site tests into regulatory plant health testing due to the high‐cost implications of incorrect results.
An Adaptive Fractional Order MPPT Control for Maximum Power Extraction From Solar Photovoltaic System
Authors: Chauhan Urvashi , Chhabra Himanshu , Rani Asha , Kumar Bhavnesh , Singh Vijander
Published: February 2025

Traditional MPPT techniques have inherent limitations such as slow convergence, incompetent toward rapid and extreme atmospheric conditions, and oscillations at maximum power peak (MPP). This paper presents a novel adaptive maximum power point tracking controller to mitigate the drawbacks of traditional MPPT techniques. In the devised control strategy, proportional and integral controller gains are made adaptive with respect to instantaneous error, which in turn reduces the power losses. Further, non‐integer integral and derivative coefficients of PID controller have been employed to enhance the accuracy. Here, Lambert‐W function is used to convert implicit equation of solar PV model into explicit equation to calculate the output power and its derivative. Parameters of the proposed controller are optimized using dragonfly optimization algorithm. The proposed scheme is analyzed on a string of KC130GT solar module consisting of a 4S1P configuration. The performance of the proposed controller is examined in terms of convergence rate and power tracking competency under six different irradiance profiles, that is, (i) constant irradiance, (ii) slow varying irradiance, (iii) fast varying irradiance, (iv) sinusoidal irradiance (v) extreme varying irradiance, and (vi) partial shading condition. Moreover, the performance of the proposed controller is investigated over other state‐of‐art MPPT controllers based on efficiency analysis, RMSE value, and time response analysis. The result reveals that the proposed technique offers the highest tracking efficiency of 99.38% under constant irradiance, whereas PID and AN‐PID recode the average efficiency of 99.05% and 98.79%, respectively. It can be noted that ANFOPID recorded the highest tracking efficiencies for other irradiance patterns in comparison with other designed controllers. Moreover, AN‐FOPID consistently exhibits the lowest RMSE values and efficient time response performance, indicating its superior performance compared to the PID and AN‐PID techniques.
The Peer Recovery Workforce and Illicit Drug Use: Reductio Ad Absurdum
Authors: Stauffer Bill
Published: February 2025

In recent years, our field has undergone significant challenges to accommodate drug use within the framework of addiction recovery. It has occurred in our private sector and within government. Perhaps the clearest example being in Government. In its 2022‐2026 strategic plan, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) defined recovery as “different things to different people. Broadly speaking, it is a process of change through which people improve their health and well‐being while abstaining from or lessening their substance use or by switching to less risky drug use. For some, this may mean complete abstinence; for others, recovery could be ceasing problematic drug use, developing effective coping strategies, improving physical and mental health, or experiencing some combination of those or other outcomes.”
Hot Exciton‐Based Plastic Scintillator Engineered for Efficient Fast Neutron Detection and Imaging
Authors: He Song , Wan Pengying , Li Hanchen , Bao Zizhen , Sui Xinjie , Zheng Guangya , Yin Hang , Pang Jincong , Jin Tong , Yuan Shunsheng , Xu Ling , Ouyang Xiaoping , Zheng Zhiping , Liu Linyue , Niu Guangda , Tang Jiang
Published: February 2025

Scintillators play a crucial role in the fields of radiation detection and imaging, but it is a formidable challenge to meet the demands for large size, high light yield, and fast response simultaneously. To tackle this challenge, this work interprets the key role of the polymer matrix in customizing the overall performance of the organic scintillator from the underlying logic. Owing to this, plastic scintillators Tetra(p‐bromophenyl)ethene@Poly(vinyltoluene) (TPE‐4Br@PVT), are successfully prepared using an amorphous conjugated polymer matrix PVT and an in situ polymerization process. This scintillator features an ultra‐large size (≈191 cm3), ultrafast decay time (1.66/5.26 ns), and decent light yield (14 443 photons·MeV−1). It not only achieves a high X‐ray imaging resolution of 13.9 lp·mm−1 (lp: line pairs) but also a record‐breaking fast neutron imaging resolution of 2.03 lp·mm−1, showcasing great potential in radiation detection and imaging applications.
Exciton Dynamics in 2D Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Li Jingang , Yang Rundi , Li Runxuan , Grigoropoulos Costas P.
Published: February 2025

2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have emerged as a promising class of materials for broad applications. The physical properties of TMDCs are dominated by strong excitonic effects, which critically determine the performance of photonic and optoelectronic devices. In this Review, the current state of research on exciton dynamics in TMDCs is summarized, discussed common optical characterization techniques, and analyzed factors that influence exciton behaviors, such as thickness, dielectric environment, strain, and heterostructure configuration. Throughout this work, the challenges and opportunities for future research in this rapidly evolving field are also highlighted.
Polymer‐grade ethylene production via VPSA simulation with a scalable and shaped ultra‐microporous adsorbent
Authors: Liu Yechen , Yu Cong , Lu Kun , Wu Tangyin , You Rimin , Suo Xian , Yang Lifeng , Cui Xili , Xing Huabin
Published: February 2025

Energy‐efficient pressure swing adsorption (PSA), a technology boosted by extensive research on emerging adsorbents, is a potential alternative to ethylene purification. We investigated, for the first time, the scale‐up synthesis, shaping, and high‐pressure ethylene‐adsorption performance of an ultra‐microporous adsorbent, CPL‐1‐NH2, with an S‐type isotherm for ethylene. Based on the static adsorption data and kilogram‐scale breakthrough experiments on the shaped CPL‐1‐NH2, vacuum PSA (VPSA) simulation processes were designed to purify ethylene from a C2H4/C2H6 mixture. Critical variables were investigated and analyzed systematically to increase the purity and recovery of the ethylene product. After parameter optimization, high ethylene purity (99.91%), excellent ethylene recovery (74%), and productivity (1.8 mol kg−1 h−1) were achieved in the 80/20 (C2H4/C2H6, v/v) VPSA simulation. This study reveals that porous materials with flexible isotherms and rapid regeneration ability are desirable for PSA from an engineering perspective.
Classical density functional theory as a fast and accurate method for adsorption property prediction of porous materials
Authors: Dufour‐Décieux Vincent , Rehner Philipp , Schilling Johannes , Moubarak Elias , Gross Joachim , Bardow André
Published: February 2025

Physical adsorption is crucial in many industrial processes, prompting researchers to develop new materials for energy‐efficient processes. Porous adsorbents are particularly promising due to their design flexibility, and computational screening has accelerated the search for optimal materials. Recently, classical density functional theory (cDFT) has emerged as a faster screening alternative to state‐of‐the‐art computational methods. However, its predictions have not been extensively validated, especially for materials involving strong Coulombic interactions. This article validates cDFT by calculating adsorption properties for over 500 Metal‐Organic Frameworks with three adsorbates , , and comparing them to results from Grand Canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulations. For , accounting for Coulombic interactions is crucial for accurate predictions. Our findings show that cDFT closely replicates GCMC results while reducing computation time to a median of six minutes per material, making it a strong candidate for estimating adsorption properties in porous materials.
Pyruvate Kinase Function Correlates With Red Blood Cell Properties and Clinical Manifestations in Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Traets M. J. M. , Bos J. F. , van der Veen S. , van Pelt L. , van Dijk M. J. , van Oirschot B. A. , de Wilde J. R. A. , Jans J. J. , van Solinge W. W. , Schols S. E. M. , Lauw M. N. , Cnossen M. H. , Nur E. , Biemond B. J. , Rijneveld A. W. , van Beers E. J. , van Wijk R. , Rab M. A. E.
Published: February 2025

Pyruvate kinase (PK) is a key enzyme involved in the final step of glycolysis, essential to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Relatively decreased red blood cell (RBC) PK activity (reflected by a lower PK/hexokinase [HK] ratio) and PK thermostability (PK activity after exposure to heat) were recently identified as pathophysiological features of sickle cell disease (SCD). In this study, we investigated whether impaired PK function is associated with sickle RBC properties and SCD‐related clinical manifestations. This study included 97 non‐transfused patients with SCD (88 HbSS, 9 HbS/β0 thalassemia). PK thermostability was correlated with RBC parameters such as reticulocyte count (r = −0.402, p < 0.0001) and hemoglobin F (r = 0.394, p < 0.0001), and indicators of impaired functional properties of sickle RBCs, such as the point of sickling (r = −0.417, p < 0.0001), oxygen affinity (r = 0.408, p < 0.001) and RBC adhesion to laminin (r = −0.322, p = 0.024). Additionally, a low PK/HK ratio correlated with decreased PK thermostability (r = 0.308, p = 0.002), decreased RBC deformability (r = 0.268, p = 0.009), and elevated 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate levels (r = −0.244, p = 0.016). Multivariate Poisson regression analysis demonstrated that reduced PK thermostability and PK/HK ratio were associated with a higher incidence of SCD‐related clinical complications. For every 10‐unit decrease in PK thermostability and 1‐unit decrease in PK/HK ratio, the incidence of SCD‐related clinical complications increased by 11% (p = 0.012) and 10% (p = 0.019), respectively. Altogether, these findings indicate that impaired PK function is related to compromised sickle RBC properties and SCD‐related clinical manifestations. This supports the relevance and underlines the potential of PK activation therapy.
Direct synthesis of polar‐functionalized polyolefin elastomers
Authors: Wang Quan , Chen Min , Zou Chen , Chen Changle
Published: February 2025

Polyolefin elastomers (POEs) are widely used for many applications including plastic toughening and encapsulating photovoltaic modules. The introduction of polar groups into POEs improves their compatibility and adhesion with polar components, but it is challenging to prepare high‐molecular‐weight polar‐functionalized POEs (P‐POEs) via copolymerization. Here, we report a silane protection strategy to enable the production of P‐POEs (including an ethylene‐based P‐EPOE and a propylene‐based P‐PPOE) with widely tunable 1‐octene incorporation ratios (7.4–19.8 mol%), appropriate polar monomer incorporation ratios (0.7–2.9 mol%), melting points (63.8–97.6 oC), and high molecular weights (up to 42.8 x 104 g mol‐1). This approach involved the early transition metal‐catalyzed terpolymerization of ethylene or propylene, 1‐octene, and protected polar monomers. This silane protection strategy is superior to the previously widely practiced aluminum‐based protection strategies in terms of polymerization activity, polymer molecular weight, comonomer incorporation, and product processibility. Most importantly, the P‐POE products exhibited excellent mechanical properties and elasticity and served as high‐performance compatibilizers and adhesives to enhance the functional applications of POEs.
Water in Electrocatalysis
Authors: Yuan Yuliang , Li Jin , Zhu Yiting , Qiao Yan , Kang Zhenye , Wang Zhitong , Tian Xinlong , Huang Hongwen , Lai Wenchuan
Published: February 2025

Renewable electricity‐powered electrocatalysis technologies occupy a central position in clean energy conversion and the pursuit of a net‐zero carbon emission future. Water can serve multiple roles in electrocatalytic reactions, for instance, as a reaction medium, reactant, modifier, promoter, etc. This significantly influences the mass transport, active site, intermediate adsorption and reaction kinetics, ultimately determining the catalytic performance (e.g., activity, selectivity, and stability) as well as device efficiency. As the heart location where electrocatalytic reactions occur, the typical electrical‐double layer is established at a water‐electrode interface. Therefore, the comprehension and regulation of water are crucial topics in electrocatalysis, which encourages us to organize this review. We begin with the fundamental understanding on structure of water and its behavior under electrochemical conditions. Subsequently, we delve into the “water effect” by elucidating specific functions of water in electrocatalysis. Recent advances in manipulating water to enhance catalytic efficiency of representative reactions such as hydrogen evolution/oxidation, oxygen evolution/reduction, CO2 reduction, N2 reduction and organic electrosynthesis, are also highlighted. We finally discuss the remaining challenges and future opportunities in this field.
Heterogeneous Fe‐N‐C Cocatalyst for Hydroquinone Oxidation Enables Aerobic Oxidation of Primary Alcohols to Aldehydes
Authors: Hoque Md Asmaul , Schweinzer Clara , Martinez Jesse J. , Tewes Friederike , Sacchetti Vittorio , Grützmacher Hansjörg , Stahl Shannon S
Published: February 2025

Benzoquinone (BQ) is commonly used as a cocatalyst in multi‐component catalyst systems for aerobic oxidation of organic molecules. Such methods often proceed by a redox cascade in which a secondary catalyst supports aerobic oxidation of hydroquinone (HQ) to BQ. The present study shows that a commercially available non‐precious metal heterogeneous catalyst, PAJ‐Fe‐N‐C, is much more efficient than established homogeneous catalysts for aerobic oxidation of HQ to BQ, and this improved reactivity is crucial to support aerobic oxidation of primary alcohols to aldehydes with the homogeneous iridium catalyst, [Ir(trop2DAD]OTf (trop2DAD = N,N‐bis(5‐H‐dibenzo[a,d]cyclo­heptene‐5‐yl)‐1,4‐diazabuta‐1,3‐diene). The combination of this heterogeneous/homogeneous catalyst system operates with Ir catalyst loadings as low as 0.05 mol % and turnover frequencies ≥350 h–1.
One‐Step Directed Self‐Assembly of Molecular Closed Four‐Link Chains and Borromean Links
Authors: Shan Wei-Long , Si Nian , Xu Meng-Ting , Chen Zhi-Yang , Zhao Gen , Tang Haitong , Jin Guo-Xin
Published: February 2025

Despite substantial advancements in the synthesis of mechanically interlocked molecules (MIMs), achieving the efficient construction of higher‐order links remains a formidable challenge. Herein, we report the highly efficient one‐step directed construction of a series of unprecedented molecular closed four‐link chains (84 1 metalla‐links), achieved through the synergistic assembly of coordination‐driven and aromatic stacking interactions involving binuclear rhodium/iridium precursors and bidentate benzothiadiazole derivative ligands. Meanwhile, modulating the substituent positions of the pyridine groups in bidentate ligand resulted in a change in the topological structure, leading to the formation of two molecular Borromean links (63 2metalla‐links). The molecular configurations of abovementioned metalla‐links were clearly identified through mass spectrometry, NMR, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Furthermore, the structural transformation between the molecular Borromean links and corresponding monocycles was achieved through concentration effects, as validated by solution‐state NMR spectroscopy investigations.
A Polypyrrole/Carbon Nanotube Based Hydrogel Sensor With High Sensitivity for Strain Detection
Authors: Li Yan , Yang Yan , Gao Feng , Zhou Fan , Cheng Wei
Published: February 2025

Conductive hydrogels hold significant promise in the fields of flexible electronics and smart sensing applications owing to their outstanding stretchability and electrical conductivity. In this study, a dual‐network hydrogel based on polyacrylamide (PAAM) and sodium alginate (SA) networks was constructed to fabricate highly sensitive strain sensors. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were incorporated into the hydrogel system, and polypyrrole (PPy) nanoparticles were synthesized using SA as a soft template. During preparing process, ultrasonic oscillation was employed to facilitate the uniform distribution of PPy in the hydrogel matrix, and then a CNTs–PPy conductive pathway was formed, thereby enhancing the conductivity and sensitivity of the hydrogel. The prepared PAAM–SA–CNTs–PPy hydrogel exhibits high electrical conductivity (4.84 S/m), superior mechanical properties (including a tensile strength of 683.5 kPa at 812%), high toughness, good self‐healing, and adhesion properties. The assembled strain sensors demonstrate high sensing capability, a wide measurement range (the gauge factor of 2.67 for 0%–400% strain and the gauge factor of 5.25 for 400%–800% strain), rapid response times (126 ms), and good stability. The developed hydrogel‐based conductive strain sensor has the potential to be excellent candidates as wearable sensing devices for monitoring human movements.
Influence of Ionic Liquid in Sequential Trial‐Curable Off‐Stoichiometric Amine–Epoxy Thermosets on Curing Behavior, Thermal and Thermomechanical Properties
Authors: Dlugaj Anna M. , de Vita Corrado , Arrabiyeh Peter A. , May David
Published: February 2025

The aim of this work was to develop and characterize sequential trial‐curable off‐stoichiometric thermosets based on two curing agents with different reactivities in terms of temperature. Trial‐curing refers to the occurrence of three curing reactions: epoxy‐amine polycondensation reaction triggered by polyetheramine D‐230 (reactive curing agent) at lower temperature, followed by adduct formation and anionic homopolymerization, both triggered by 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium dicyanamide (latent curing agent) at higher temperature. Intermediate materials were studied after the first curing step. A wide range of properties such as reactivity, glass transition, network density, and thermal stability could be tuned by adjusting the relative contribution of the involved reactions. The glass transition of final samples, determined from the peak temperature of tan delta curve by Dynamic Mechanical Analysis, varied from 108.8°C to 166.4°C. This value increased by decreasing relative contribution of the epoxy‐amine condensation reaction. The curing process was additionally monitored by Fourier‐transformed infrared spectroscopy to identify curing reactions.
Morphology and function of pinniped necks: The long and short of it
Authors: Keller Justin , Berta Annalisa , Juhn Mark , Van Valkenburgh Blaire
Published: February 2025

Terrestrial vertebrates from at least 30 distinct lineages in both extinct and extant clades have returned to aquatic environments. With these transitions came numerous morphological adaptations to accommodate life in water. Relatively little attention has been paid to the cervical region when tracking this transition. In fully aquatic cetaceans, the cervical vertebrae are compressed, largely because a loss of neck mobility reduces drag. We ask whether this pattern of cervical evolution is present in the more recently evolved semiaquatic pinnipeds. Here, we compare neck morphology and function in three families of pinnipeds, the Otariidae, Phocidae, and Odobenidae as well as between pinnipeds and their terrestrial arctoid relatives (ursids and mustelids). Using cranial CT scans, we quantified the occipital surface area for neck muscle attachment as well as vertebral size and shape using linear measurements. Results show that pinnipeds have a relatively larger occipital surface area than ursids and terrestrial mustelids, suggesting that marine carnivorans have enlarged their neck muscles to assist with head stabilization during swimming. Within pinnipeds, we found quantitative differences in cervical morphology between otariids and phocids that coincide with their locomotor style. Phocids are hindlimb‐dominated swimmers that propel themselves with pelvic oscillations. Their necks are relatively stiff and their cervical vertebrae are compressed anteroposteriorly with reduced muscular attachment areas. By contrast, otariids are forelimb‐dominated swimmers that locomote in water and on land using their pectoral limbs, often recruiting their neck to initiate turns underwater as well as assisting in “walking” on land. Consequently, otariids have stronger, more flexible necks than phocids, which is reflected in more elongate cervical vertebral centra with larger muscle attachments. The walrus (Odobenidae) has a cervical vertebrae morphology intermediate to that of phocids and otariids, consistent with a phocid swimming mode combined with a more muscular neck that likely functions in intraspecific conflict and haul‐out behavior.
Robustness and Related Concepts for Climate Adaptation in Drinking Water Treatment Systems
Authors: Nemani Kirti S. , Peldszus Sigrid , Huck Peter M.
Published: February 2025

Climate change intensifies extreme weather events, potentially posing significant challenges to the quality and quantity of surface water available for drinking water treatment. Quantifying and substantiating a treatment system's capacity and vulnerability in handling a range of raw water conditions is crucial for preparing for future climate scenarios. Concepts like resilience and reliability and related tools have been applied to drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs), but often fail to capture the operational boundaries of treatment processes. Robustness offers a complementary approach, focusing on the range of conditions a system can effectively manage, thereby laying the foundation for improving the system and thus bridging a critical gap in adaptation strategies. This review examines the interconnections between robustness, resilience, reliability, risk, and vulnerability, providing tailored definitions for DWTPs. It also introduces visual diagrams to further illustrate their link and collective role in climate adaptation planning.
The link between school leadership, staff job satisfaction and retention. Longitudinal evidence from England
Authors: Jerrim John
Published: February 2025

This paper presents new evidence on the link between staff perceptions of school leadership and job satisfaction, drawing on three waves of The Engagement Platform data collected from over 4000 members of school staff in England. We find that when staff have a positive rather than an ambivalent view of school leadership, their job satisfaction is markedly improved. Views of school leadership in the autumn term are also found to correlate with whether staff leave their job by the end of the academic year. Together, our results demonstrate how views of leadership play a pivotal role in the satisfaction and retention of school staff.
Software‐Oriented Collaborative Project‐Based Learning of Biomedical Signal Processing in Simulated Industry‐Like Conditions
Authors: Pieciak Tomasz , Augustyniak Piotr
Published: February 2025

Most academic approaches to teaching biomedical signal processing (BSP) focus either on acquisition procedures of electrophysiological data, predefined menu‐driven signal processing methods using virtual laboratories, or ordinary signal processing procedures applied to biomedical signals without reaching the nature of the data and reflecting the future workplace. This paper introduces a new software‐oriented project‐based learning approach to BSP for graduate biomedical engineering students. The course simulates industry‐like practices under an imposed work environment and acquaints the participants with biomedical signal evaluation and quality assurance (QA) procedures required for software standardization. The students develop fully functional multifaceted software to analyze real‐world electrocardiograms that can be run on a desktop computer without external numerical tools. The project is led by a project manager (PM) and assisted by a software architect (SA) and project coordinator (PC). The paper hypothesizes that learning the BSP through a proposed simulated industry‐like approach improves understanding of BSP principles, computer programming skills, and social competencies in developing a collaborative project. The results show that the participants significantly enriched BSP‐related knowledge after the course, improved computer programming skills (p < 0.0001; nonparametric Wilcoxon signed‐rank test), and enhanced soft skills in collaborative work (p < 0.001) and public presentations (p < 0.001). The course participants valued the role of algorithm prototyping stages and QA procedures according to official standardization rules. The PM and SA enabled the smooth software development process, while the PC has proven helpful in resolving intrinsic conflicts.
Comparison of Subjective and Objective Cognitive Function and Emotional State in Supratentorial Brain Tumors Before Surgery—Recognizing the Influence of Laterality
Authors: Schock Lisa , Wrede Karsten , Oezkan Neriman , Dammann Philipp , Oppong Marvin Darkwah , Gembruch Oliver , Jabbarli Ramazan , Kreitschmann‐Andermahr Ilonka , Siegel Sonja , Friedel Anna Lena , Engel Adrian , Karadachi Hanah Hadice , Laflör Lilith Philomena , Sure Ulrich , Ahmadipour Yahya
Published: February 2025

Objective

Because of its high prognostic value, neuropsychological assessment plays a crucial role in the neuro‐oncology setting. Subjective and objective cognitive performance correlate only to a limited extent, and subjective cognitive performance is strongly dependent on emotional state. We postulate that the relation of subjective and objective cognitive performance depends on tumor laterality.

Methods

In this prospective study, N = 63 patients with brain tumors underwent a neuropsychological test battery, including assessment of subjective cognitive function (attention, memory, executive), and symptoms of depression and anxiety before surgery. Patients with psychiatric comorbidity or severe neurological conditions were excluded.

Results

There were no significant differences in subjective and objective cognitive function, symptoms of depression and anxiety between left (N = 37) and right (N = 26) hemisphere tumors. All measures of subjective cognitive function correlated highly significantly with symptoms of depression and anxiety in left hemisphere tumor patients (all r ≥ 0.470). In right hemisphere tumor patients, there was no relation between subjective cognitive function and emotional state. Significant laterality differences for correlations of subjective and objective cognitive function were not found and were not significant within the two groups.

Conclusions

Even when unbiased by symptoms of anxiety and depression, right hemisphere tumor patients show the same discrepancy in subjective and objective cognitive function as left hemisphere tumor patients. This discrepancy may be based on a different mechanism in right hemisphere tumor patients.
The Package Says More Than a Thousand Words: The Effect of Eco‐Labelling and Package Material on Consumer's Purchase Intentions
Authors: Ollitervo Virpi , Sipilä Jenni , Terho Harri
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the influence of two prominent visual packaging cues, eco‐labels, and packaging material, on consumers' green purchase intentions in the context of gift‐giving, which represents a more complex decision compared to routine consumption. We derive a novel theoretical framework based on signaling theory and cue utilization theory and test our hypotheses with three experiments. The findings reveal that eco‐labels and packaging material do not have an interactive effect on purchase intentions. However, an eco‐label can indirectly drive purchase intentions through the perceived environmental friendliness of the product (Studies 1, 2, 3). Furthermore, an environmentally friendly packaging material can indirectly affect purchase intentions through both perceived attractiveness of packaging (Studies 1, 2, 3) and perceived environmental friendliness of the product (Studies 1 and 3). The research extends the existing literature at the intersection of green consumption and packaging design by providing novel evidence of the theoretical mechanisms, through which visual packaging cues influence purchase intentions. Furthermore, the study makes a contribution by studying the effects in the previously overlooked context of gift‐giving. The implications of the findings are discussed in relation to green marketing and the prevention of greenwashing. Thus, this study provides valuable insights for academics, companies, and regulators interested in fostering green consumption.
Optimizing Device Selection in Percutaneous Paravalvular Leak Closure: A Comparative Study of Different Transthoracic and Transesophageal Echocardiographic Techniques
Authors: Tekin Meltem , Güler Gamze Babur , Çiçek Mehmet , Tanboğa İbrahim Halil , Pysz Piotr , Güler Arda , Demir Ali Rıza , Efe Yusuf , Atmaca Sezgin , Pay Dilara , Kalkan Ali Kemal , Ertürk Mehmet
Published: February 2025

Background

Clinically significant paravalvular leak (PVL) may complicate both surgical and transcatheter valve implantation. Percutaneous PVL closure (PPVLC) is becoming an increasingly attractive alternative to redo surgery, with demonstrated lower mortality and morbidity rates. Echocardiographic techniques are crucial for accurate diagnosis, defect sizing, and determining the appropriate size of the sealing devices.

Aims

There is no consensus on the optimal imaging modality for PVLs. We aimed to compare transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiographic measurements to accurately determine defect size and estimate device size.

Methods

We reviewed hospital records to identify patients diagnosed with moderate to severe and severe PVL from 2018 to 2024. A total of 81 patients who underwent PPVLC were evaluated. Eight of these patients were excluded due to unsuccessful PPVLC, leaving 73 patients who were successfully treated. The defect size for all patients was evaluated using 2D transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), 2D transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), direct 3D TEE cropped volume rendering vena contracta (VC) measurement, and 3D TEE multiplanar reconstruction (3D TEE MPR).

Results

Among the 73 patients, 42 underwent aortic PPVLC and 31 underwent mitral PPVLC. Proportional odds logistic regression analysis identified 3D TEE MPR measurement as the strongest predictor of device size accuracy, both overall and within the aortic/mitral subgroups. In the mitral subgroup, the predictive power of direct 3D TEE cropped volume rendering VC measurement and 3D TEE MPR measurement were similar. Furthermore, a cut‐off value of 7 mm was identified for hemodynamically significant jets as measured by 3D methods.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that using 3D TEE MPR significantly improves the accuracy of device size selection in both mitral and aortic PVL. Additionally, direct 3D TEE cropped volume rendering VC measurement can serve as a viable alternative for patients with mitral PVL.
A Rare Case of Atypical Pelvic Retroperitoneal Lipoma Mimicking Liposarcoma; A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Forder Bea Harris , Nistor Sabina , Siddiqui Ather , Soleymani majd Hooman
Published: February 2025

Retroperitoneal lipomas are exceptionally rare tumors that mimic liposarcomas. We present a case of a woman in her 30s undergoing fertility investigations, with an incidental finding of a retroperitoneal tumor on MRI. PET and MRI scans suggested this may be a liposarcoma, with widespread effects on the surrounding iliac vessels. Collaboration between the orthopedic sarcoma service, gynecological oncology, and vascular surgery was required to excise the tumor without damaging the surrounding vessels. The patient underwent an exploratory midline laparotomy, with mobilization of the ascending colon along the Toldt line to gain access to the tumor. The morbid adherence of the tumor to neurovascular structures added significant complexity to this procedure; however, complete tumor resection was achieved with mobilization and excision of the obturator nerve only. The initial histological diagnosis was well‐differentiated liposarcoma; however, subsequent molecular analysis showed no evidence of MDM2 amplification, suggesting a final diagnosis of benign lipoma. This case exemplifies diagnostic challenges in lipomatous retroperitoneal tumors, as well as the importance of inter‐disciplinary collaboration in surgery to achieve the best surgical and oncological outcomes.
Myocardial Infarction Caused by Aortic Root Thrombus in a Patient With Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: Ichihara Kazuki , Suzuki Masataka , Hashimura Hiromi , Eizawa Hiroshi
Published: February 2025

Aortic root thrombosis is a rare but serious complication of antiphospholipid syndrome that can lead to myocardial infarction. Cardiac computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are essential for noninvasively evaluating myocardial infarction and aortic root thrombosis.
The Use of WALANT Technique in the Osteosynthesis of Ankle Fractures: A Clinical Case Video
Authors: Kastanis Grigorios , Chaniotakis Constantinos , Siligardou Mikela‐Rafaella , Stavrakakis Ioannis , Kapsetakis Petros
Published: February 2025

The Wide‐Awake Local Anesthesia No Tourniquet (WALANT) technique enables the creation of a suitable surgical field without the need for a tourniquet, while also allowing for the evaluation of the ankle under physiological forces (active ankle movement) after fixation. Data on the use of the WALANT technique in open reduction and internal fixation of ankle fractures are limited. This case video is the first to be presented in the literature.
Convenient Synthesis of β‐C‐acyl Glycosides and its Application in the Synthesis of Scleropentaside A, Scleropentaside B and the Derivatives of Dapagliflozin
Authors: Fang Ya , Ma Wei , Zhou Zhaobo , Wang Xuanjia , Chen Xi , Wang Jiaxiang , Wang Xiaolei
Published: February 2025

C‐Glycosides are a common feature in numerous bioactive natural compounds and play a crucial role as mimics of O/N‐glycosides. Our process for synthesizing β‐C‐acyl glycosides involves a reductive cross‐coupling of protected glycosyl bromides with the corresponding carboxylic acid, followed by base‐assisted deprotection and isomerization. This method is compatible with diverse glycosyl donors, including disaccharides. Consequently, we achieved the total synthesis of the natural products scleropentaside A and scleropentaside B with exceptional efficiency. These β‐C‐acyl glycosides can be readily transformed into novel forms of C‐glycosides capable of disrupting signaling pathways linked to various pathological conditions, such as diabetes.
OXIDATION‐DEFORMYLATION CASCADE CATALYZED BY A MONONUCLEAR COPPER COMPLEX
Authors: Wang Yongxing , Gomez Pineiro Rogelio , Leblay Rébecca , Giorgi Michel , Bertaina Sylvain , Orio Maylis , Faure Bruno , Réglier Marius , Simaan A. Jalila
Published: February 2025

In this study, two copper complexes were synthesized using N3 (arising from two pyridines and one amide group) containing ligands N‐(2‐picolyl)picolinamide (L1H) and bis(2‐pyridylcarbonyl)amine (L2H), forming [(L1)CuII(OH2)(NO3)] (1) and [(L2)CuII(OH2)2](NO3) (2). The reaction of complex 1 with hydrogen peroxide in alcoholic solvents yielded a formate‐bound complex. Studies with isotopically labeled 13C ethanol indicated that formate originates from the C1 of ethanol after C‐C bond cleavage. Complex 1 was found to catalytically convert primary alcohols into formic acid probably following a two‐step process: (i) alcohol oxidation to aldehyde and (ii) aldehyde deformylation. Further experiments with 2‐phenylpropionaldehyde (2‐PPA) confirm the ability of complex 1 to catalyze aldehyde deformylation. Both steps of the reaction are associated with significant kinetic deuterium isotope effects (KDIE), suggesting that hydrogen atom abstractions (HAA) occur during the rate‐determining steps of both conversions. Overall, this system proposes a clean catalytic process for alcohol‐to‐formic acid conversion, operating under mild conditions, and offering potential synthetic applications.
Treatment‐free remission in nontransplanted patients with Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Kugler Eitan , Kantarjian Hagop , Jabbour Elias , Khaire Niranjan , Short Nicholas J. , Kadia Tapan M. , Haddad Fadi G. , Sasaki Koji , Kanagal Shamanna Rashmi , Garris Rebecca , Ravandi Farhad , Jain Nitin
Published: February 2025

Background

The BCR::ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have significantly improved the outcomes of patients with Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, the optimal duration of TKI therapy in patients who achieve a complete molecular response (CMR; undetectable BCR::ABL1 transcripts) and who do not undergo allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo‐SCT) remains undefined.

Methods

The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with Ph‐positive ALL in first complete remission who achieved a CMR and discontinued TKI therapy, most commonly due to treatment‐related side effects.

Results

In total, 14 patients were identified. The regimen of hyperfractionated cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone alternating with high‐dose methotrexate and cytarabine was the primary backbone chemotherapy and was received by 12 patients (86%) combined with either imatinib (14%), dasatinib (43%), or ponatinib (29%) during induction. Two patients received blinatumomab and ponatinib. The median duration of TKI therapy was 60 months. The median CMR duration before TKI discontinuation was 46.1 months (range, 2.7–121.3 months). After a median follow‐up of 42.5 months from TKI discontinuation, three patients (21%) experienced relapse (two molecular, one morphologic), whereas 11 patients (79%) maintained treatment‐free remission. The median time to relapse was 6.4 months (range, 4–16 months), and two of three relapsed patients regained CMR after resuming TKI therapy. Importantly, none of the six patients with a CMR duration >48 months before TKI discontinuation relapsed.

Conclusions

The current findings suggest that TKI discontinuation may be safe for highly selected patients with Ph‐positive ALL in first complete remission who maintain CMR for at least 48 months. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Total Arch Replacement Versus Hemiarch Replacement in Hemodynamic Performance: A Simulation Study
Authors: Shi Yike , Zhang Chenjia , Zhao Yawei , Jin Yusheng , Li Fen , Song Hui , Chen Lingfeng , Zhang Hongpeng
Published: February 2025

Acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) is a life‐threatening aortic emergency with high mortality. Currently, hemiarch replacement (HAR) and total arch replacement (TAR) are the primary surgeries for ATAAD, but their long‐term outcomes remain debated, possibly due to the influence of clinical factors in multicenter studies. This study aims to evaluate the long‐term outcomes of HAR and TAR by in silico analysis, mitigating the impact of clinical factors. A personalized model was reconstructed to simulate HAR and TAR by altering the material properties at the replacement regions, obtaining hemodynamic and wall response parameters through two‐way fluid–structure interaction analysis. HAR exhibits a higher increase in von Mises stress at the anastomosis compared to pre‐operation levels (HAR: 4.39 times normal, TAR: 2.42 times normal), increasing the risk of pseudoaneurysm formation. TAR induced more severe streamline absence in the arch branches, potentially resulting in intermittent blood flow to the upper limbs and brain. HAR poses a higher risk of pseudoaneurysm formation at the anastomosis, while TAR carries increased risks of upper limb and cerebral ischemia. Enhanced monitoring of the anastomosis in HAR patients and vigilance for upper limb fatigue and cerebral ischemic events in TAR patients are recommended. This study offers effective guidance for managing postoperative HAR and TAR patients, contributing to the prevention of complications and enhancing their postoperative quality of life.
Deciphering the secret codes in N7‐methylguanosine modification: Context‐dependent function of methyltransferase‐like 1 in human diseases
Authors: Fang Huan , He Jing , Du Dan , Wang Xue , Xu Xinyu , Lu Linping , Zhou Yefan , Wen Yangyang , He Fucheng , Li Yingxia , Wen Hongtao , Zhou Mingxia
Published: February 2025

N7‐methylguanosine (m7G) is one of the most prevalent post‐transcriptional modifications of RNA and plays a critical role in RNA translation and stability. As a pivotal m7G regulator, methyltransferase‐like 1 (METTL1) is responsible for methyl group transfer during the progression of m7G modification and contributes to the structure and functional regulation of RNA. Accumulating evidence in recent years has revealed that METTL1 plays key roles in various diseases depending on its m7G RNA methyltransferase activity. Elevated levels of METTL1 are typically associated with disease development and adverse consequences. In contrast, METTL1 may act as a disease suppressor in several disorders. While the roles of m7G modifications in disease have been extensively reviewed, the critical functions of METTL1 in various types of disease and the potential targeting of METTL1 for disease treatment have not yet been highlighted. This review describes the various biological functions of METTL1, summarises recent advances in understanding its pathogenic and disease‐suppressive functions and discusses the underlying molecular mechanisms. Given that METTL1 can promote or inhibit disease processes, the possibility of applying METTL1 inhibitors and agonists is further discussed, with the goal of providing novel insights for future disease diagnosis and potential intervention targets.

Key points

METTL1‐mediated m7G modification is crucial for various biological processes, including RNA stability, maturation and translation.

METTL1 has emerged as a critical epigenetic modulator in human illnesses, with its dysregulated expression correlating with multiple diseases progression and presenting opportunities for both diagnostic biomarker development and molecular‐targeted therapy.

Enormous knowledge gaps persist regarding context‐dependent regulatory networks of METTL1 and dynamic m7G modification patterns, necessitating mechanistic interrogation to bridge basic research with clinical translation in precision medicine.