bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Indígenas andinos en Chile Colonial: Inmigración, inserción espacial, integración económica y movilidad social (Santiago, Siglos XVI-XVII)
Authors: Valenzuela Márquez Jaime
Published: January 2011

Desde las expediciones de conquista del siglo XVI llegaron a Chile numerosos indígenas andinos que sirvieron a los españoles, se asentaron y se integraron en los espacios laborales y sociales de este «nuevo mundo» periférico; formaron redes y parentescos locales, tuvieron descendencia, varios se transformaron en artesanos y algunos dictaron testamentos o dejaron huellas en documentos eclesiásticos y notariales que nos permiten observar su movilidad e inserción local.
Este trabajo aporta antecedentes y desvela los principales ejes de un proceso que aparece como medular para entender la formación de la sociedad colonial chilena temprana y, a la vez, para dar cuenta de fenómenos de circulación, desarraigo y asentamiento de población indígena en el virreinato peruano meridional.
¡A Luján! Las Comunidades de inmigrantes y el naciente catolicismo de masas, 1910-1934
Authors: Lida Miranda
Published: January 2011

El objetivo de este trabajo es explicar el fenómeno de las movilizaciones de las comunidades de inmigrantes a Luján a partir de una consideración del cuadro general en el que se inscribían. Este cuadro ha de incluir el contexto general del catolicismo argentino hacia el Centenario, a fin de llamar la atención sobre el hecho de que los italianos no fueron los únicos ni los primeros que se movilizaron a Luján en procesiones cada vez más multitudinarias. Nos interesa focalizar, pues, la década de 1910, años en los cuales las procesiones y manifestaciones católicas se vuelven cada vez más numerosas. Usualmente, la historiografía suele ubicar la aparición del catolicismo de masas en la década de 1930, cuya expresión más elocuente se habría encontrado en la celebración del Congreso Eucarístico Internacional de 1934. Sin embargo, suele olvidarse que el primer evento de estas características se celebró en Buenos Aires en fecha tan temprana como 1916, cuando se celebró el primer Congreso Eucarístico Nacional. Éste se hizo eco de la naciente oleada de movilización católica de masas que vio la luz hacia el Centenario. De ella fueron partícipes, entre otros, los italianos.
Hirayama′s disease
Authors: Jakhere S , Wagh V
Published: January 2011

Hirayama's disease is a form of juvenile muscular atrophy affecting young individulas in their second to third decade. The underlying pathogenetic mechanism is believed to be an imbalanced growth between the individuals' vertebral column and the spinal canal contents, which causes abutment of the anterior spinal cord against the vertebral column and detachment of the posterior dura, leading to microcirculatory disturbances and ischemic changes in the cord. This mechanism is exiquisitely demonstrated on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), but requires additional imaging, with the neck in the flexed position. Neurphysiological imaging studies have provided supporting evidence by demonstrating changes in the N13 potential, with neck flexion. Nonetheless, few studies have also reported contradictory findings with MRI and somatosensory evoked potentials, in Hirayamas Disease. This condition is underdiagnosed because most clinicians are not familiar with this disorder and do not request a flexion MRI. Early recognition of this entity and differentiation from other causes of focal cord atrophy is important, because limitation of neck flexion by using a simple neck collar can prevent its further progression. We report the classical MRI findings in a young patient with Hirayama's disease with neutral and flexion MRI.
Dynamic Performance Analysis: A Framework for Understanding Occupational Performance
Authors: Polatajko Helene J. , Mandich Angela , Martini Rose
Published: January 2011

Occupational therapy is now consistently described as a profession concerned with enabling occupation. A crucial step in enabling occupation is understanding the occupational performance of our clients. Dynamic Performance Analysis (DPA) is a new approach to occupational analysis that focuses on the client’s actual performance. DPA, acknowledging that optimal performance is the product of the interaction of person, environment, and occupation, and thus highly individualistic, places the client and his or her occupation, in interaction with the environment, at the center of the analysis process. Embedded in a top–down framework, DPA is a dynamic, iterative process, carried out as the client performs the occupation. The purpose of DPA is to identify where performance breaks down and test out solutions. In this article, the rationale, origins, and basic assumptions of DPA are discussed, and a detailed description of the DPA process together with two clinical examples is presented.
Playfulness in Children With and Without Disability: Measurement and Intervention
Authors: Okimoto Ann Mari , Bundy Anita , Hanzlik Jodie
Published: January 2011

Objective. The differences in playfulness between young children with cerebral palsy and developmental delays and children who are typically developing, and the comparative effects of two interventions (one focused on improving mother–child interaction patterns, the other a neurodevelopmental treatment [NDT] session) on children’s playfulness were examined in this study. Reliability and validity of the Test of Playfulness (ToP) also were examined.

Method. Three trained raters used the ToP to score 38 children, half with cerebral palsy and developmental delays and half typically developing, as they played with their mothers. Mental ages of the children ranged from 3 to 18 months. The mother–child dyads in which the children had cerebral palsy and developmental delays were then randomly assigned to an intervention group. After a 1-hr intervention to improve mother–child interaction, the children were rescored on the ToP.

Results. After examination of ToP reliability and validity, children with cerebral palsy and developmental delays were found to score significantly lower on the ToP than their peers who were typically developing. In addition, children whose mothers received an intervention to improve mother–child interactions scored significantly higher on the ToP after intervention than before intervention. However, the gain scores of children whose mothers received the intervention were not significantly higher than those of children who received direct NDT.

Conclusion. The results suggested that when the shared goal of parents and therapists is to enable children to express their inherent playfulness, intervention to improve parent– child interactions may be more potent than intervention directed at improving the child’s developmental skills.
Use of Early Tactile Stimulation in Rehabilitation of Digital Nerve Injuries
Authors: Cheng Andy Shu-Kei
Published: January 2011

Objective. Digital nerves are the most frequently injured peripheral nerve. To improve the recovery of functional sensibility of digital nerve injuries, a prospective randomized controlled study was conducted to see the effect of using early tactile stimulation in rehabilitation of digital nerve injuries.

Method. Two specific tactile stimulators were made and prescribed for patients with digital nerve-injury. Twenty-four participants with 32 digital nerve injuries received the prescribed tactile stimulators (experimental group), and another 25 participants with 33 digital nerve injuries received only routine conventional therapy (control group).

Results. A significant difference (p < .05) was seen in the experimental group, although there were some variations between the different classes of associated injuries, with least benefit observed in the combined nerve, tendon, and bone injury class.

Conclusion. Use of early tactile stimulation as described in this study can be considered an effective way to improve both quality and quantity of recovery of functional sensibility in digital nerve injuries without combined nerve, tendon, and bone injuries.
The Orchestration of Occupation: The Dance of Mothers
Authors: Larson Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2011

Objectives. This article describes the relationship of mothers’ orchestration of daily occupations, the specialized maternal work of parenting a child with a disability, and the mother’s subjective well-being.

Method. Mothers’ daily occupations and subjective well-being were studied using multiple in-depth interviews, participant observation of a day’s round of occupations, and scales of well-being. Data were treated to a recursive analysis, which included theoretical notes generated during transcriptions that identified important themes and additional points of inquiry, line-by-line coding of transcripts, and theoretical sorting of codes and regrouping, recoding. To account for patterns in the data, a relational analysis was conducted that included the generation of metaphors.

Results. Emergent findings of this analysis identified the mothers’ guiding occupational motif and eight processes of orchestration in their daily routines. The occupational motif, the embrace of paradox, directed the mother’s orchestration of daily occupations. The orchestration processes included planning, organizing, balancing, anticipating, interpreting, forecasting, perspective shifting, and meaning making. Examples illustrate the maternally driven and child-sensitive nature of these processes.

Conclusion. In their daily rounds, the mothers studied were attentive to the manner and method with which they interacted with their children to produce child-contingent occupations commensurate with their values of being a good mother. Using these orchestration processes, mothers made sense of their past, designed their present, and planned for their future within their daily occupational rounds for themselves and family members.
Maternal Management of the Home as a Developmental Play Space for Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Pierce Doris
Published: January 2011

Objective. One purpose of this qualitative study was to describe the work done by mothers as they manage the spaces and objects of the home to support the development of infants and toddlers at play.

Method. Eighteen mother–infant dyads participated in the study. Data were collected via monthly in-home videotaping of infants and monthly interviews with mothers, from 1 to 18 months of infant age. Data were analyzed with a grounded theory approach and computer-assisted video and text analysis.

Results. The results describe the everyday tasks of mothers of infants and toddlers, such as selecting commercial toys and household objects for play, positioning infants for play, maintaining and making play objects available, furnishing the home with child care equipment, controlling infant access to the spaces of the home, and monitoring for safety.

Conclusion. This description contributes to our understanding of maternal work, infant and toddler development in context, co-occupations, and the neglected spatial dimension of occupation.
Relationship Between Performance on Tests of Basic Visual Functions and Visual-Perceptual Processing in Persons After Brain Injury
Authors: Cate Yolanda , Richards Lorie
Published: January 2011

Objective. In this correlational study of adults receiving occupational therapy who sustained a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), the relationship between basic visual functions (including acuity, visual field deficits, oculomotor skills, and visual attention or scanning) and higher level visual-perceptual processing skills (e.g., visual closure and figure–ground discrimination) was investigated.

Method. Thirty adults who sustained CVA and 20 adults without a history of CVA were given a basic visual function screening and the Motor-Free Visual Perception Test (MVPT). Scores on the vision screening and the MVPT were correlated statistically.

Results. A Pearson product-moment correlation analysis produced a correlation of r = .75 between vision screening scores and scores from the MVPT.

Conclusion. These results suggest that a positive relation exists between basic visual functions and visual-perceptual processing skills. Further, the results suggest that evaluation of visual-perceptual processing skills must begin with assessment of basic visual functions so that the influence of these basic visual functions on performance in more complex tests can be taken into consideration.
Reliability and Validity of a Parent Questionnaire on Childhood Motor Skills
Authors: Wilson Brenda N. , Kaplan Bonnie J. , Crawford Susan G. , Campbell Anne , Dewey Deborah
Published: January 2011

Objective. As the consequences of clumsiness in childrenbecome better understood, the need for valid measurement tools is apparent. Parent report has thepotential for providing historical knowledge of the child’s motor skills, as well as perceptions of their children’s motor difficulties. Theobjective was to develop a parent questionnaire to identifymotor difficulties in children.

Method. A sample of 306 children participated in the development of a 17-item parent questionnaire, called the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire (DCDQ). Internal consistency, concurrent and construct validity were examined.

Results. The DCDQ proved capable of distinguishing children who had motor problems (as measured by standardized tests) from children without motor problems. Correlations with standardized tests were significant. Two other studies confirmed the construct validity of the DCDQ. Factor analysis revealed four distinct factors, useful in defining the nature of the difficulties.

Conclusion. The DCDQ is a succinct and useful measure for use by occupational therapists.
The Chemistry of Atmosphere-Forest Exchange (CAFE) Model – Part 1: Model description and characterization
Authors: Wolfe G. M. , Thornton J. A.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. We present the Chemistry of Atmosphere-Forest Exchange (CAFE) model, a vertically-resolved 1-D chemical transport model designed to probe the details of near-surface reactive gas exchange. CAFE integrates all key processes, including turbulent diffusion, emission, deposition and chemistry, throughout the forest canopy and mixed layer. CAFE utilizes the Master Chemical Mechanism (MCM) and is the first model of its kind to incorporate a suite of reactions for the oxidation of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, providing a more comprehensive description of the oxidative chemistry occurring within and above the forest. We use CAFE to simulate a young Ponderosa pine forest in the Sierra Nevada, CA. Utilizing meteorological constraints from the BEARPEX-2007 field campaign, we assess the sensitivity of modeled fluxes to parameterizations of diffusion, laminar sublayer resistance and radiation extinction. To characterize the general chemical environment of this forest, we also present modeled mixing ratio profiles of biogenic hydrocarbons, hydrogen oxides and reactive nitrogen. The vertical profiles of these species demonstrate a range of structures and gradients that reflect the interplay of physical and chemical processes within the forest canopy, which can influence net exchange.
Understanding evolution of product composition and volatility distribution through in situ GC × GC analysis: a case study of longifolene ozonolysis
Authors: Isaacman G. , Worton D. R. , Kreisberg N. M. , Hennigan C. J. , Teng A. P. , Hering S. V. , Robinson A. L. , Donahue N. M. , Goldstein A. H.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. A method for predicting volatility and polarity based on chromatographic information was developed and applied to the smog chamber ozonolysis of the sesquiterpene longifolene. The products were collected and analyzed using a GC × GC Thermal Desorption Aerosol Gas Chromatograph/Mass Spectrometer (2D-TAG) and a quadrupole Aerodyne Aerosol Mass Spectrometer (AMS). All the secondary organic aerosol (SOA) was produced within the first half hour of the experiment. However, the oxidation level of the organic aerosol, as inferred from the fraction of ion m/z 44, suggested continued evolution of the SOA over the subsequent hours. Measurements of speciated organic compounds using 2D-TAG confirm that the composition of the particles changed over the course of the experiment. Nearly 200 oxidation products (thought to be mostly ketones and acids) were observed with 2D-TAG, but most could not be identified definitively due to a lack of standards and the absence of likely sesquiterpene oxidation products in available mass spectral databases. To categorize the observed products, the vapor pressure and oxygen-to-carbon ratio (O/C) of observed compounds were estimated based on their multi-dimensional chromatographic retention times relative to those of known standards, establishing a retention time correlation (RTC) method for using 2D-TAG to better constrain important modelling parameters. The product distribution continuously evolved in volatility and oxygenation during 5 h of oxidation. Using peak area as the best available proxy for mass, we conclude that the product mixture includes many non-negligible products; the most abundant 3 compounds accounted for only half of the total observed peak area and 80% of peak area was spread across 15 compounds. The data provide evidence for three conclusions: (1) 2D-TAG can provide valuable volatility and oxygenation information even in the absence of definitive species identification, (2) complex particle-phase chemistry causes continued evolution of particle composition after formation of new particles was complete, and (3) minor products contribute significantly to SOA from the ozonolysis of sesquiterpenes.
Characteristics of immersion freezing nuclei at the south pole station in Antarctica
Authors: Ardon-Dryer K. , Levin Z. , Lawson R. P.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. The effectiveness of aerosols as immersion freezing nuclei at the South Pole station was investigated during January and February 2009 using the FRIDGE-TAU. The analysis consisted of testing the freezing temperature of about 100–130 drops per sample containing aerosols collected at ground level and on a balloon lifted to different heights. All the drops froze between −18 °C and −27 °C. The temperature in which 50% of the drops froze occurred at −24 °C, while nuclei concentration of 1 L−1 at −22 °C was calculated. Meteorological conditions such as wind speed, ice precipitation as well as the trajectories of the air masses affected the ice nuclei concentrations. Higher concentrations were observed on days when the winds were stronger or when the air mass originated from the sea.
Measuring and modelling the isotopic composition of soil respiration: insights from a grassland tracer experiment
Authors: Gamnitzer U. , Moyes A. B. , Bowling D. R. , Schnyder H.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. The carbon isotopic composition (δ13C) of CO2 efflux (δefflux) in ecosystems is generally interpreted to represent the actual isotopic composition of respiration (δresp). However, soils contain a large CO2 pool in air-filled pores. This pool receives CO2 from belowground respiration and exchanges CO2 with the atmosphere (via diffusion and advection) and the soil liquid phase (via dissolution). Natural or artificial modification of δ13C of atmospheric CO2 (δatm) or δresp causes isotopic disequilibria in the soil-atmosphere system. Such disequilibria generate divergence of δefflux from δresp (termed disequilibrium effect). Here, we use a soil CO2 transport model and data from a 13CO2/12CO2 tracer experiment to quantify the disequilibrium between δefflux and δresp. The model accounted for diffusion of CO2 in soil air, advection of soil air, dissolution of CO2 in soil water, belowground and aboveground respiration of both 12CO2 and 13CO2 isotopologues. The tracer data were obtained in a grassland ecosystem exposed to a δatm of −46.9‰ during daytime for 2 weeks. Nighttime δefflux from the ecosystem was estimated with three independent methods: a laboratory-based cuvette system, in-situ steady-state open chambers, and in-situ closed chambers. The δefflux measurements of the laboratory-based and steady-state systems were consistent, and likely reflected δresp (see Gamnitzer et al., 2009). Conversely, the δefflux measured using the closed chamber technique differed from these by −11.2‰. Most of this disequilibrium effect (9.5‰) was predicted by the CO2 transport model. Isotopic disequilibria in the soil-chamber system were introduced by changing δatm in the chamber headspace at the onset of the measurements. When dissolution was excluded, the simulated disequilibrium effect was only 3.6‰. Dissolution delayed the isotopic equilibration between soil CO2 and the atmosphere, as the storage capacity for labelled CO2 in water-filled soil pores was 18 times that of soil air. These mechanisms are potentially relevant for many studies of δresp in soils and ecosystems, including FACE experiments and chamber studies in natural conditions. Isotopic disequilibria in the soil-atmosphere system may result from temporal variation in δresp or diurnal changes in the mole fraction and δ13C of atmospheric CO2. Dissolution effects are most important under alkaline conditions.
Trends and extremes of drought indices throughout the 20th century in the Mediterranean
Authors: Sousa P. M. , Trigo R. M. , Aizpurua P. , Nieto R. , Gimeno L. , Garcia-Herrera R.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. Average monthly precipitation, the original Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI) and a recent adaptation to Europe, the Self Calibrated PDSI (scPDSI) have been used here to analyse the spatial and temporal evolution of drought conditions in the Mediterranean during the 20th century. Monthly, seasonal and annual trends were computed for the period 1901–2000 and also for the first and second halves of this period. The statistical significance of trends was obtained with a modified version of the Mann-Kendall test that accounts for serial auto-correlation. The results show a clear trend towards drier conditions during the 20th century in most western and central Mediterranean regions, with the exceptions of northwestern Iberia and most of Turkey that reveal an increase of moisture availability. A Generalized Extreme Values (GEV) analysis was applied to the maximum and minimum regional values of scPDSI, with results pointing towards a significant decline of absolute extreme values in central areas (Italy and Balkans) and a less clear picture emerging in western (Iberia) and eastern (Turkey) realms. The inter-annual variability of the scPDSI index series is shown to be more realistic than the corresponding PDSI version, fitting better the drought episodes sequence and magnitude described in the literature for each sub-region. We assess the decadal and inter-annual variability of the scPDSI for each sub-domain and evaluate the role played by the major teleconnection patterns, and by several sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies. The main driver of scPDSI in western and central Mediterranean areas is the winter North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) pattern that is also relevant during the following spring and summer seasons with anti-correlation values below −0.60. The second most important mode corresponds to the Scandinavian Pattern that is significantly associated to the scPDSI between winter and summer over central Mediterranean (correlation values around 0.50). Finally, the teleconnection and SST analysis has allowed us to calibrate a stepwise regression model, enabling the forecasting of summer drought conditions six months in advance. The final model obtained is capable of reproducing the observed scPDSI time series fairly well, with a correlation coefficient of 0.79 (0.77 after cross-validation) and a significant gain over climatology (SSc=59%), while the corresponding result against persistence is more modest (SSp6=11%).
Krill Oil for Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Laslett Laura L. , Scheepers Lieke E. J. M. , Antony Benny , Wluka Anita E. , Cai Guoqi , Hill Catherine L. , March Lyn , Keen Helen I. , Otahal Petr , Cicuttini Flavia M. , Jones Graeme
Published: May 2024

Importance

Knee osteoarthritis is disabling, with few effective treatments. Preliminary evidence suggested that krill oil supplementation improved knee pain, but effects on knee osteoarthritis remain unclear.

Objective

To evaluate efficacy of krill oil supplementation, compared with placebo, on knee pain in people with knee osteoarthritis who have significant knee pain and effusion-synovitis.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial in 5 Australian cities. Participants with clinical knee osteoarthritis, significant knee pain, and effusion-synovitis on magnetic resonance imaging were enrolled from December 2016 to June 2019; final follow-up occurred on February 7, 2020.

Interventions

Participants were randomized to 2 g/d of krill oil (n = 130) or matching placebo (n = 132) for 24 weeks.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was change in knee pain as assessed by visual analog scale (range, 0-100; 0 indicating least pain; minimum clinically important improvement = 15) over 24 weeks.

Results

Of 262 participants randomized (mean age, 61.6 [SD, 9.6] years; 53% women), 222 (85%) completed the trial. Krill oil did not improve knee pain compared with placebo (mean change in VAS score, −19.9 [krill oil] vs −20.2 [placebo]; between-group mean difference, −0.3; 95% CI, −6.9 to 6.4) over 24 weeks. One or more adverse events was reported by 51% in the krill oil group (67/130) and by 54% in the placebo group (71/132). The most common adverse events were musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders, which occurred 32 times in the krill oil group and 42 times in the placebo group, including knee pain (n = 10 with krill oil; n = 9 with placebo), lower extremity pain (n = 1 with krill oil; n = 5 with placebo), and hip pain (n = 3 with krill oil; n = 2 with placebo).

Conclusions and Relevance

Among people with knee osteoarthritis who have significant knee pain and effusion-synovitis on magnetic resonance imaging, 2 g/d of daily krill oil supplementation did not improve knee pain over 24 weeks compared with placebo. These findings do not support krill oil for treating knee pain in this population.

Trial Registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry Identifier: ACTRN12616000726459; Universal Trial Number: U1111-1181-7087
Assessing the Risk of Bias in Randomized Clinical Trials With Large Language Models
Authors: Lai Honghao , Ge Long , Sun Mingyao , Pan Bei , Huang Jiajie , Hou Liangying , Yang Qiuyu , Liu Jiayi , Liu Jianing , Ye Ziying , Xia Danni , Zhao Weilong , Wang Xiaoman , Liu Ming , Talukdar Jhalok Ronjan , Tian Jinhui , Yang Kehu , Estill Janne
Published: May 2024

Importance

Large language models (LLMs) may facilitate the labor-intensive process of systematic reviews. However, the exact methods and reliability remain uncertain.

Objective

To explore the feasibility and reliability of using LLMs to assess risk of bias (ROB) in randomized clinical trials (RCTs).

Design, Setting, and Participants

A survey study was conducted between August 10, 2023, and October 30, 2023. Thirty RCTs were selected from published systematic reviews.

Main Outcomes and Measures

A structured prompt was developed to guide ChatGPT (LLM 1) and Claude (LLM 2) in assessing the ROB in these RCTs using a modified version of the Cochrane ROB tool developed by the CLARITY group at McMaster University. Each RCT was assessed twice by both models, and the results were documented. The results were compared with an assessment by 3 experts, which was considered a criterion standard. Correct assessment rates, sensitivity, specificity, and F1 scores were calculated to reflect accuracy, both overall and for each domain of the Cochrane ROB tool; consistent assessment rates and Cohen κ were calculated to gauge consistency; and assessment time was calculated to measure efficiency. Performance between the 2 models was compared using risk differences.

Results

Both models demonstrated high correct assessment rates. LLM 1 reached a mean correct assessment rate of 84.5% (95% CI, 81.5%-87.3%), and LLM 2 reached a significantly higher rate of 89.5% (95% CI, 87.0%-91.8%). The risk difference between the 2 models was 0.05 (95% CI, 0.01-0.09). In most domains, domain-specific correct rates were around 80% to 90%; however, sensitivity below 0.80 was observed in domains 1 (random sequence generation), 2 (allocation concealment), and 6 (other concerns). Domains 4 (missing outcome data), 5 (selective outcome reporting), and 6 had F1 scores below 0.50. The consistent rates between the 2 assessments were 84.0% for LLM 1 and 87.3% for LLM 2. LLM 1’s κ exceeded 0.80 in 7 and LLM 2’s in 8 domains. The mean (SD) time needed for assessment was 77 (16) seconds for LLM 1 and 53 (12) seconds for LLM 2.

Conclusions

In this survey study of applying LLMs for ROB assessment, LLM 1 and LLM 2 demonstrated substantial accuracy and consistency in evaluating RCTs, suggesting their potential as supportive tools in systematic review processes.
The delivery assessment for small targets on Halcyon radiotherapy system – Measured and calculated dose comparison
Authors: Lankinen Linda , Kulmala Antti , Lehtomäki Jouko , Harju Ari
Published: May 2024

Background

With the ever‐increasing requirements of accuracy and personalization of radiotherapy treatments, stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) with volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) on O‐ring Halcyon radiotherapy system could potentially provide a fast, safe, and feasible treatment option.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the delivery of Halcyon VMAT plans for small targets.

Methods

Well‐defined VMAT‐SRT plans were created on Halcyon radiotherapy system with the stacked and staggered dual‐layer MLC design for the film measurement set‐up and the target sizes and shapes designed to emulate the targets of the stereotactic treatments. The planar dose distributions were acquired with film measurements and compared to a current clinical reference dose calculation with AcurosXB (v18.0, Varian Medical Systems) and to Monte Carlo simulations. With the collapsed arc versions of the VMAT‐SRT plans, the uncertainty in dose delivery due to the multileaf collimator (MLC) without the gantry rotation could be separated and analyzed.

Results

The target size was mainly limited by the resolution originated from the design of the MLC leaves. The results of the collapsed arc versions of the plans show good consistency among measured, calculated, and simulated dose distributions. With the full VMAT plans, the agreement between calculated and simulated dose distributions was consistent with the collapsed arc versions. The measured dose distribution agreed with the calculated and simulated dose distributions within the target regions, but considerable local differences were observed in the margins of the target. The largest differences located in the steep gradient regions presumably originating from the deviation of the isocenter.

Conclusions

The potential of the Halcyon radiotherapy system for VMAT‐SRT delivery was evaluated and the study revealed valuable insights on the machine characteristics with the delivery.
Abnormal intrinsic functional hubs and connectivity in patients with post‐stroke depression
Authors: Wu Xiumei , Xu Kang , Li Tongyue , Wang Luoyu , Fu Yanhui , Ma Zhenqiang , Wu Xiaoyan , Wang Yiying , Chen Fenyang , Song Jinyi , Song Yulin , Lv Yating
Published: May 2024

Objective

The present study aimed to investigate the specific alterations of brain networks in patients with post‐stroke depression (PSD), and further assist in elucidating the brain mechanisms underlying the PSD which would provide supporting evidence for early diagnosis and interventions for the disease.

Methods

Resting‐state functional magnetic resonace imaging data were acquired from 82 nondepressed stroke patients (Stroke), 39 PSD patients, and 74 healthy controls (HC). Voxel‐wise degree centrality (DC) conjoined with seed‐based functional connectivity (FC) analyses were performed to investigate the PSD‐related connectivity alterations. The relationship between these alterations and depression severity was further examined in PSD patients.

Results

Relative to both Stroke and HC groups, (1) PSD showed increased centrality in regions within the default mode network (DMN), including contralesional angular gyrus (ANG), posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), and hippocampus (HIP). DC values in contralesional ANG positively correlated with the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9) scores in PSD group. (2) PSD exhibited increased connectivity between these three seeds showing altered DC and regions within the DMN: bilateral medial prefrontal cortex and middle temporal gyrus and ipsilesional superior parietal gyrus, and regions outside the DMN: bilateral calcarine, ipsilesional inferior occipital gyrus and contralesional lingual gyrus, while decreased connectivity between contralesional ANG and contralesional supramarginal gyrus. Moreover, these FC alterations could predict PHQ‐9 scores in PSD group.

Interpretation

These findings highlight that PSD was related with increased functional connectivity strength in some areas within the DMN, which might be attribute to the specific alterations of connectivity between within DMN and outside DMN regions in PSD.
Peroxidase‐Like Nanozyme Activates the cGAS‐STING Pathway via ROS‐Induced mtDNA Release for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Zhu Xueqin , Wang Xiaoxi , Liu Zimai , Jiang Bing , He Zonghong , Liu Sijia , Wu Yahong , Wu Zixian , Zhang Tiantian , Liu Meiyi , Li Kai , Niu Xiaoshuang , Gao Yanfeng
Published: May 2024

Although numerous peroxidase (POD)‐like nanozymes have been designed for catalytic therapy of cancer, development of nanozymes with higher therapeutic efficacy and less adverse effects are challengeable. More importantly, the underlying antitumor mechanism remains largely unknown which hinders their application. Here, the nitrogen‐doped carbon nanozyme (N‐PCNS) as a model is utilized and demonstrated that its capacity to specifically activate the STING pathway in tumor cells through reactive oxgen species (ROS)‐mediated mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) release, which provides the initial signals for STING‐dependent innate immune response. Further, a peptide‐nanozyme conjugate (PNEC, OPBP1‐N‐PCNS), comprising a PD‐L1 blocking/targeting dual‐functional peptide and a cationic‐coated N‐PCNS is constructed, which are conjugated through a matrix metalloproteinase responsive peptide linker. The cleaved derivate nanozyme with positive charge exhibits recyclable capacity and superior ability in capturing and enhancing the transcellular transport of tumor‐derived mtDNA toward DCs, thereby amplifying the STING signaling‐mediated anti‐tumor immune response. This study proposed a unique mechanism and design strategy for POD‐like nanozyme in cancer immunotherapy.
An Injectable Composite Co‐Assembled Dehydropeptide‐Based Magnetic/Plasmonic Lipogel for Multimodal Cancer Therapy
Authors: Veloso Sérgio R. S. , Vázquez‐González Margarita , Spuch Carlos , Freiría‐Martínez Luis , Comís‐Tuche María , Iglesias‐Martínez‐Almeida Marta , Rivera‐Baltanás Tania , Hilliou Loic , Amorim C. O. , Amaral V. S. , Coutinho Paulo J. G. , Ferreira Paula M. T. , Castanheira Elisabete M. S. , Correa‐Duarte Miguel A.
Published: May 2024

Advancing therapeutic effectiveness through the strategic co‐delivery of drugs in a sequential manner represents a compelling strategy. However, achieving precise and selective release of chemotherapeutic agents remains a formidable challenge. In this study, a co‐assembled Arginine‐Glycine‐Aspartate (RGD)‐functionalized dehydropeptide‐based gel loaded with magnetic liposomes and mesoporous silica‐coated gold nanorods is introduced. This composite system serves as a sophisticated tool to independently modulate the release of doxorubicin and methotrexate. The gel's properties are intricately tuned by the incorporation of liposomes or nanorods and/or the co‐assembly with an RGD‐functionalized peptide. Furthermore, the combined effects of sequential drug release, photothermia, and magnetic hyperthermia synergistically enhance therapeutic efficacy against 3D cancer cell cultures. Noteworthy attributes of the gel include its ability to orthogonally trigger loaded drugs, along with features such as injectability, rapid gelation, self‐healing, and mechanical properties suitable for drug delivery. Consequently, this versatile multimodal platform emerges as a promising option for therapeutic applications, particularly in the context of cancer therapy.
Metal Single‐Atoms Toward Electromagnetic Wave‐Absorbing Materials: Insights and Perspective
Authors: Zhang Xin‐Ci , Zhang Min , Wang Meng‐Qi , Chang Li , Li Lin , Cao Mao‐Sheng
Published: May 2024

Metal single‐atoms implanted on nitrogen‐doped carbon matrices (M‐NxCs) can effectively adjust local surface electrons and polarization relaxation through coordination structures to significantly enhance the electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption properties of the materials. However, the precise construction of the geometric and electronic structures of metal single atoms and the discovery of the structure‐absorption relationship at the atomic level confront a huge challenge. Herein, this work summarizes the latest progress in metal single‐atom engineering of EMW absorbing materials via a comprehensive analysis of M‐NxCs in terms of design principles, modulation strategies, and structure‐performance correlations. Subsequently, it highlights the recent progress of several typical M‐NxCs as the EMW absorbing materials, aiming to achieve a complete understanding of the physical effects and atomic‐level absorption mechanisms. Finally, current key challenge and future directions of M‐NxCs are presented by focusing on the electromagnetic functional materials. This work provides new insights for the development of atomically dispersed absorbing materials for efficient electromagnetic response functionalities.
The Critical Analysis of Membranes toward Sustainable and Efficient Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Ye Jiaye , Xia Lu , Li Huiyun , de Arquer F. Pelayo García , Wang Hongxia
Published: May 2024

Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFB) are a promising technology for large‐scale storage of electrical energy, combining safety, high capacity, ease of scalability, and prolonged durability; features which have triggered their early commercial implementation. Furthering the deployment of VRFB technologies requires addressing challenges associated to a pivotal component: the membrane. Examples include vanadium crossover, insufficient conductivity, escalated costs, and sustainability concerns related to the widespread adoption of perfluoroalkyl‐based membranes, e.g., perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA). Herein, recent advances in high‐performance and sustainable membranes for VRFB, offering insights into prospective research directions to overcome these challenges, are reviewed. The analysis reveals the disparities and trade‐offs between performance advances enabled by PFSA membranes and composites, and the lack of sustainability in their final applications. The potential of PFSA‐free membranes and present strategies to enhance their performance are discussed. This study delves into vital membrane parameters to enhance battery performance, suggesting protocols and design strategies to achieve high‐performance and sustainable VRFB membranes.
Super Black Coating on the Commercial Black Anodized Al(6061) by Direct and Scalable CVD–Growth of Carbon Nanofibers
Authors: Truong Thuy – Kieu , Yuk Geun Tak , Kim Joong Bae , Youn Hongseok , Rho Jinsung
Published: May 2024

Using carbon‐based super black coatings on optical devices can achieve superior stray light suppression for applications in astronomy. For the first time, the work presents carbon nanofiber‐based black coating on commercial anodized Al(6061), which facilitates the development of a highly effective route to directly integrate the carbon‐based material on the common substrate for optical baffles. The scalable and available structural engineering effect is synergized with the anodized Al(6061) coating with black dye composed of nickel catalyst and the intrinsic broadband light absorption of the CVD‐grown carbon material to ultimately achieve a superior broadband light absorber. Nickel catalysts embedded in anodized Al(6061) offer a practical pathway for carbon nanofiber growth through CVD without additional stacked catalysts. The CVD‐growing mechanism and CNF nanostructures are demonstrated through TEM and EDS element mapping, SEM, and Raman spectroscopy. CNF‐grown Al(6061) substrates offer above 99% broadband light absorption and low light reflectance below 1% in UV–vis–NIR and mid–IR ranges. This facile approach has been useful for super black coating on Al(6061)‐based complicated sculptures, such as concave substrate and an optical baffle. These results have demonstrated a facile method that can significantly impact the industrial scaling‐up of high‐quality, super‐black coating on spaceborne devices.
Insights into Atomic Level π‐Electron Modulations in Supramolecular Carbon Nitride Nanoarchitectonics for Sustainable Green Hydrogen Production
Authors: Panangattu Dharmarajan Nithinraj , Fawaz Mohammed , Sathish CI , Talapaneni Siddulu Naidu , Ramadass Kavitha , Sadanandan Aathira M. , Ta Xuan Minh Chau , Huš Matej , Perumalsamy Vibin , Tricoli Antonio , Likozar Blaž , Jeon Chung‐Hwan , Yang Jae‐Hun , Vinu Ajayan
Published: May 2024

Carbon nitrides, metal‐free semiconducting materials, have unique molecular structure and semiconducting properties which have inspired researchers to utilize them as photocatalysts for the sustainable production of hydrogen. However, they suffer from a few drawbacks including fast charge‐carrier recombination rate and low charge transfer efficiency owing to their amorphous and less conducting wall structure which remain as significant challenge for achieving breakthrough in photocatalytic water splitting. Herein, the study reports a supramolecular approach of coupling thiourea and trimesic acid for designing highly efficient C‐doped carbon nitride photocatalysts in which the π‐electron density is precisely manipulated. The developed C‐doped carbon nitride demonstrates the fine‐tuned band positions, the mitigated electron–hole recombination, and enhanced conductivity, resulting in the facilitation of significantly enhanced hydrogen generation through the photocatalytic water splitting under the solar‐simulated light. The position and distribution of C‐doping in the carbon nitride framework are characterized by using advanced analytical techniques such as X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, near‐edge X‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy together with the first‐principles studies of the electronic structure and energetics of doping. The remarkable increase in photocatalytic hydrogen generation by using developed C‐doped carbon nitride brings one step closer to achieving a green hydrogen economy.
A new TGF‐β risk score predicts clinical and immune landscape in colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Tang Bing , Liu Binggang , Zeng Zhiyao
Published: May 2024

Background

Aberrant TGF‐β signaling pathway can lead to invasive phenotype of colorectal cancer (CRC), resulting in poor prognosis. It is pivotal to develop an effective prognostic factor on the basis of TGF‐β‐related genes to accurately identify risk of CRC patients.

Methods

We performed differential analysis of TGF‐β‐related genes in CRC patients from databases and previous literature to obtain TGF‐β‐related differentially expressed genes (TRDEGs). LASSO‐Cox regression was utilized to build a CRC prognostic feature model based on TRDEGs. The model was validated using two GEO validation sets. Wilcoxon rank‐sum test was utilized to test correlation of model with clinical factors. ESTIMATE algorithm and ssGSEA and tumor mutation burden (TMB) analysis were used to analyze immune landscape and mutation burden of high‐risk (HR) and low‐risk (LR) groups. CellMiner database was utilized to identify therapeutic drugs with high sensitivity to the feature genes.

Results

We established a six‐gene risk prognostic model with good predictive accuracy, which independently predicted CRC patients' prognoses. The HR group was more likely to experience immunotherapy benefits due to higher immune infiltration and TMB. The feature gene TGFB2 could inhibit the efficacy of drugs such as XAV‐939, Staurosporine, and Dasatinib, but promote the efficacy of drugs such as CUDC‐305 and by‐product of CUDC‐305. Similarly, RBL1 could inhibit the drug action of Fluphenazine and Imiquimod but promote that of Irofulven.

Conclusion

A CRC risk prognostic signature was developed on basis of TGF‐β‐related genes, which provides a reference for risk and further therapeutic selection of CRC patients.
Efficient Synthesis of Dihydropyrans via Copper‐Catalyzed Dehydrogenative Oxidation and Hetero‐Diels‐Alder Reactions
Authors: Li Haofan , Chen Zhiliang , Du Yu , Su Weiping
Published: May 2024

Hydrogenated pyrans are prevalent structural units existed in many biologically active compounds, capturing the attention of pharmacologists due to their potential therapeutic applications. Among various synthetic routes, the hetero‐Diels‐Alder (HDA) reaction stands out as a common and effective approach. The objective of this study was to employ HDA reaction in conjunction with the dehydrogenative oxidation strategy for saturated ketones to synthesize hydrogenated pyran compounds. Through systematic screening and optimization of reaction conditions, a convenient approach for the synthesis of multi‐substituted 2,3‐dihydro‐4H‐pyran compounds has been developed. Furthermore, a detailed mechanistic investigation has been performed to get a deep understanding of the reaction.
Synthesis and Studies of Meso‐Triaryl Trithiapentaphyrin(2.2.1.1.1)s
Authors: Tiwari Shubham , Ravikanth Mangalampalli
Published: May 2024

Three examples of meso‐triaryl trithiapentaphyrin(2.2.1.1.1)s 1–3 (Figure 1) that contains three thiophenes and two pyrrole rings connected via seven meso‐carbons were synthesized by condensing newly synthesized benzo‐fused trithiatripyrrane diol and appropriate meso‐aryl dipyrromethane under mild acid catalysed conditions in 5–8 % yields. In these macrocycles, two of the meso‐positions were fused with the benzene rings and the DFT optimized structural analysis revealed that the macrocycles adopt saddled conformation with the two thiophene rings oriented towards outside the macrocyclic core. HR‐MS and detailed 1D & 2D NMR studies were used in deducing the molecular structures of the macrocycles and NMR studies support their nonaromatic nature. The macrocycles exhibit one strong sharp absorption band at ~430 nm and a broad band in the region of 550–850 nm which were further red‐shifted to NIR region in their protonated derivatives. The macrocycles exhibit two reversible oxidations and one reduction and the redox data revealed that the macrocycles were easier to oxidize and were electron‐rich.
Visible‐Light‐Mediated Oxygenation of Benzylic C(Sp3)−H Bonds and Oxidation of Aryl Carbinols using Non‐Noble Transition Metal Photoredox Catalyst
Authors: Jeyaraj Preety , Mallayasamy Siva , Selvaraj Elavarasan , Das Priyadip , Baskar Baburaj
Published: May 2024

A simple and efficient methodology for the selective oxygenation of benzylic C(sp3)−H bond and oxidation of primary and secondary alcohols using non‐noble photoredox copper catalyst under visible light irradiation is described. Notably, non‐noble copper photoredox catalysts were found to be good for the oxidation reactions when compared to various commercially available photoredox catalysts employed in the present methodology. In addition, oxygen as clean oxidant at room temperature and compatible for both the oxygenation and oxidation reactions. A wide range of carbonyl compounds bearing both electron rich and electron deficient substituents was synthesized in moderate to excellent yields under milder and environmentally friendly conditions. Also, a thorough investigation was carried out to understand the mechanism of both oxidation reactions.