bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partial amino acid sequence of purified von Willebrand factor–cleaving protease
Authors: Gerritsen Helena E. , Robles Rodolfo , Lämmle Bernhard , Furlan Miha
Published: July 2002

von Willebrand factor–cleaving protease (vWF-cp) is responsible for the continuous degradation of plasma vWF multimers released from endothelial cells. It is deficient in patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, who show unusually large vWF multimers in plasma. Purified vWF-cp may be useful for replacement in these patients, who are now treated by plasma therapy. In this study, vWF-cp was purified from normal human plasma by affinity chromatography on the IgG fraction from a patient with autoantibodies to vWF-cp and by a series of further chromatographic procedures, including affinity chromatography on Protein G, Ig-TheraSorb, lentil lectin, and heparin. Four single-chain protein bands, separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis under nonreducing conditions, showed Mr of 150, 140, 130, and 110 kd and were found to share the same N-terminal amino acid sequence, suggesting that they were derived from the same polypeptide chain that had been partially degraded at the carboxy-terminal end. A hydrophobic sequence (Ala-Ala-Gly-Gly-Ile-Leu-His-Leu-Glu-Leu-Leu-Val-Ala-Val-Gly) of the first 15 residues was established. The protease migrates in gel filtration as a high-molecular-weight complex with clusterin, a 70-kd protein with chaperonelike activity. vWF-cp bound to clusterin is dissociated by the use of concentrated chaotropic salts. vWF-cp in normal human plasma or serum is not associated with clusterin, suggesting that the observed complex is due to vWF-cp denaturation during the purification procedure. Activity of vWF-cp is unusually stable during incubation at 37°C; its in vitro half-life in citrated human plasma, heparin plasma, or serum is longer than 1 week. There was even a temporary increase in protease activity during the first 3 days of incubation.
The dynamics of hepatitis C virus binding to platelets and 2 mononuclear cell lines
Authors: Hamaia Samir , Li Chengyao , Allain Jean-Pierre
Published: July 2002

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) binds to platelets in chronically infected patients where free HCV constitutes only about 5% of total circulating virus. Free HCV preferentially binds to human mononuclear cell lines but free and complexed virus binds equally to platelets. The extent of free HCV binding to human Molt-4 T cells (which express CD81) and to human promonocytic U937 cells or to platelets (which do not express CD81) was similar. The binding of free HCV to the cell lines was saturated at a virus dose of 1 IU HCV RNA per cell but binding to platelets was not saturable. Human anti-HCV IgG, but not anti-CD81, markedly inhibited HCV binding to target cells in a dose-dependent manner. Human antibodies to HCV hypervariable region 1 of E2 glycoprotein partially inhibited viral binding to target cells. Recombinant E2 also inhibited viral binding to target cells in a dose-dependent manner, with the efficacy of this decreasing in the rank order of Molt-4 cells more than U937 cells more than platelets. In contrast to HCV, recombinant E2 bound to Molt-4 cells to an extent markedly greater than that apparent with U937 cells or platelets. These results suggest that the binding of HCV to blood cells is mediated by multiple cell surface receptors and that recombinant E2 binding may not be representative of the interaction of the intact virus with target cells.
Sulfated polysaccharides increase plasma levels of SDF-1 in monkeys and mice: involvement in mobilization of stem/progenitor cells
Authors: Sweeney Elizabeth A. , Lortat-Jacob Hugues , Priestley Gregory V. , Nakamoto Betty , Papayannopoulou Thalia
Published: July 2002

It was previously reported that treatment with the sulfated polysaccharide fucoidan or the structurally similar dextran sulfate increased circulating mature white blood cells and hematopoietic progenitor/stem cells (HPCs) in mice and nonhuman primates; however, the mechanism mediating these effects was unclear. It is reported here that plasma concentrations of the highly potent chemoattractant stromal-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) increase rapidly and dramatically after treatment with fucoidan in monkeys and in mice, coinciding with decreased levels in bone marrow. In vitro and in vivo data suggest that the SDF-1 increase is due to its competitive displacement from heparan sulfate proteoglycans that sequester the chemokine on endothelial cell surfaces or extracellular matrix in bone marrow and other tissues. Although moderately increased levels of interleukin-8, MCP1, or MMP9 were also present after fucoidan treatment, studies in gene-ablated mice (GCSFR−/−, MCP1−/−, or MMP9−/−) and the use of metalloprotease inhibitors do not support their involvement in the concurrent mobilization. Instead, SDF-1 increases, uniquely associated with sulfated glycan–mobilizing treatments and not with several other mobilizing agents tested, are likely responsible. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first published report of disrupting the SDF-1 gradient between bone marrow and peripheral blood through a physiologically relevant mechanism, resulting in mobilization with kinetics similar to other mobilizing CXC chemokines. The study further underscores the importance of the biological roles of carbohydrates.
General T-cell receptor antagonists to immunomodulate HLA-A2–restricted minor histocompatibility antigen HA-1–specific T-cell responses
Authors: den Haan Joke M. M. , Mutis Tuna , Blokland Els , IJzerman Ad P. , Goulmy Els
Published: July 2002

T-cell receptors (TCRs) of a series of minor histocompatibility antigen (mHag) HA-1–specific cytotoxic T-cell (CTL) clones isolated from 3 unrelated patients have been shown to use the same BV6S4A2 segment with conserved amino acids in the CDR3Vβ region. This suggests that different HA-1–specific TCRs interact similarly to the HA-1 antigen presented by the HLA-A2 molecule. The mHag HA-1 forms an immunogenic complex with HLA-A2 and induces strong alloimmune responses after stem cell transplantation (SCT). It was questioned, therefore, whether clonal and polyclonal HA-1–specific CTL responses can be antagonized by a single TCR antagonistic peptide. Functional analysis and molecular modeling of single and double amino acid substitutions of TCR contact residues, adjacent residues, and HLA-A2 binding residues resulted in 4 peptides with high affinity for HLA-A2 and with the capacity to inhibit the lysis of endogenously HA-1–expressing EBV-BLCL by 3 different HA-1–specific CTL clones. These peptides also efficiently antagonized HA-1–specific polyclonal CTL lines derived from 3 patients and significantly reduced the number of interferon-γ–producing HA-1–specific CTL of a patient with graft-versus-host disease after HA-1–mismatched SCT. These data show that general TCR antagonists can be developed that inhibit HLA-A2–restricted HA-1–specific CTL responses on the clonal and the polyclonal level and that TCR antagonists may modulate the immunodominant mHag HA-1 responses.
CD8α+ dendritic cells originate from the CD8α− dendritic cell subset by a maturation process involving CD8α, DEC-205, and CD24 up-regulation
Authors: del Hoyo Gloria Martı́nez , Martı́n Pilar , Arias Cristina Fernández , Marı́n Alvaro Rodrı́guez , Ardavı́n Carlos
Published: July 2002

CD8α+ and CD8α− dendritic cells (DCs) have been considered as independent DC subpopulations both ontogenetically and functionally during recent years. However, it has been demonstrated that both DC subsets can be generated from a single precursor population, supporting the concept that they do not represent separate DC lineages. By using highly purified splenic CD8α− DCs, which were injected intravenously and traced by means of an Ly5.1/Ly5.2 transfer system, this study shows that CD8α− DCs acquired the phenotypic characteristics of CD8α+ DCs, by a differentiation process involving CD8α, DEC-205, and CD24 up-regulation, paralleled by the down-regulation of CD11b, F4/80, and CD4. These data demonstrate that CD8α+DCs derive from CD8α− DCs, and strongly support that CD8α− and CD8α+ DCs represent different maturation or differentiation stages of the same DC population. Therefore, CD8α+ DCs would represent the last stage of DC differentiation, playing an essential role in the induction of T-cell responses, due to their antigen-presenting potential, cross-priming ability, and capacity to secrete large amounts of key cytokines such as interferon γ and interleukin-12.
Functional in vivo characterization of human monoclonal anti-D in NOD-scid mice
Authors: Bazin Renée , Aubin Éric , Boyer Lucie , St-Amour Isabelle , Roberge Chantal , Lemieux Réal
Published: July 2002

The prophylaxis of the hemolytic disease of the newborn requires significant amounts of plasma-derived polyclonal human anti-D. Because of procurement problems, there is a growing interest in replacing plasma-derived anti-D by in vitro–produced human monoclonal anti-D. Hundreds of monoclonal anti-D have been prepared, but the selection of the most potent for in vivo use is difficult because it cannot be predicted by in vitro characterization. This study evaluated the possibility of using nonobese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficient (NOD-scid) mice for the in vivo evaluation of human monoclonal anti-D. Human red blood cells (RBCs) were found to circulate normally in the blood of NOD-scid mice previously injected with a physiologic amount of human immunoglobulin G (10 mg). The addition of a small amount of anti-D (1 to 5 μg) resulted in the clearance of Rh D+RBCs within 4 hours. The comparative testing of 8 monoclonal anti-Ds showed a wide range of potency (15% to 87%) relative to plasma-derived polyclonal anti-D. There was no strong correlation between the in vivo potency index and the immunoglobulin G isotype, affinity, or fine specificity of the antibodies. These results show the usefulness of NOD-scid mice for the initial in vivo screening of human monoclonal anti-D before testing the most active antibodies in clinical trials done in human volunteers.
Impact of Referral Patterns on the Use of Chemotherapy for Lung Cancer
Authors: Earle Craig C. , Neumann Peter J. , Gelber Richard D. , Weinstein Milton C. , Weeks Jane C.
Published: July 2002

PURPOSE: To determine the extent to which unexplained variation in the use of chemotherapy for advanced lung cancer is due to access to oncologists’ services as opposed to treatment decisions made after seeing an oncologist.

METHODS: We performed a retrospective cohort study of 12,015 patients over age 65 diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer between 1991 and 1996 while living in one of 11 regions monitored by a Survival, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) tumor registry. Assessment by an oncologist and subsequent treatment with chemotherapy were determined by examining linked Medicare claims.

RESULTS: Of patients who did not receive chemotherapy, 36% were never assessed by a physician who provides chemotherapy. Patients living in certain areas, those diagnosed in more recent years, and those who received care in a teaching hospital were all more likely to see a cancer specialist. These factors were unrelated to subsequent treatment decisions, however. Conversely, age and comorbidity did not have a significant effect on whether a patient was seen by an oncologist, but they were associated with the likelihood of subsequently receiving chemotherapy. Black race, probably acting as a proxy for lower socioeconomic status, was associated with both a diminished likelihood of seeing a cancer specialist and subsequently receiving chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION: Nonmedical factors are important determinants of whether a lung cancer patient is seen by a physician who provides chemotherapy. After seeing such a physician, treatment decisions seem to be mostly explained by appropriate medical factors. Racial and socioeconomic disparities still exist at both steps, however. As therapeutic options expand, referring physicians must ensure that biases and barriers to care do not deprive patients of the opportunity to consider all of their treatment options.
Industry Payments to Physicians by Competing Manufacturers Within Novel Therapeutic Classes
Authors: Sun Q. Wilton , Ross Joseph S.
Published: November 2024

This study analyzes the extent and persistence of payments to physicians from competing manufacturers after receipt of payment from manufacturers of first-in-class products entering 6 novel therapeutic classes.
Working With Medical Interpreters
Authors: Latif Zara , Kontrimas Jane , Warraich Haider J.
Published: November 2024

This JAMA Insights discusses the important role that interpreters play in facilitating communication between patients with limited English-language proficiency and their health care team and provides steps that can be taken to improve communication with remote interpreters for patients.
Equecabtagene Autoleucel in Patients With Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Li Chunrui , Zhou Keshu , Hu Yongxian , Zou Dehui , Chen Lijuan , Chen Bing , Liu Jing , Zhang Xi , Ren Hanyun , Hu Kai , Liu Peng , Mi Jian-Qing , Li Zhenyu , Ding Kaiyang , Wang Di , Wang Wen , Cai Songbai , Li Jianyong , Song Yongping , Huang He , Qiu Lugui
Published: November 2024

Importance

Equecabtagene autoleucel (eque-cel), a fully human-derived B-cell maturation antigen-targeting chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, has exhibited potential for the treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM), and further investigation in a larger cohort is necessary.

Objective

To evaluate whether eque-cel can benefit patients with RRMM and determine the overall response rate postinfusion.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The FUMANBA-1 trial was a single-arm, open-label, phase 1b/2 trial that evaluated eque-cel in adult patients with RRMM. Enrollment began in April 2020, and patients who received eque-cel will be monitored for a minimum of 15 years following the infusion. As of September 2022, patients with heavily pretreated RRMM who received at least 3 prior courses of therapy from 14 centers were enrolled. Data were analyzed from April 2020 to September 2022.

Interventions

Patients received a single infusion of eque-cel at 1.0 × 106 CAR-positive T cells/kg after the lymphodepletion.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Efficacy was the primary objective, and safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics were secondary objectives.

Results

Of 103 patients who received an eque-cel infusion, 55 (53.4%) were male, and the median (range) age was 58 (39-70) years. A total of 101 patients were evaluable for efficacy. At a median (range) follow-up of 13.8 (0.4-27.2) months, the overall response rate was 96.0% (97 of 101), with 74.3% (75 of 103) achieving a complete response or better. Among the 12 patients who had prior CAR T-cell treatment, 75% (9 of 12) achieved a response. The median progression-free survival was not reached, with a 12-month progression-free survival rate of 78.8% (95% CI, 68.6-86.0). A total of 96 patients (95.0%) achieved minimal residual disease negativity at a sensitivity threshold of 10−5. Adverse events were favorable: 96 of 103 patients (93.2%) experienced cytokine release syndrome (grade 1 to 2 in 95 patients [92.3%]) and 2 (1.9%) experienced immune effector cell–associated neurotoxicity syndrome (grade 1 to 2). All cases of immune effector cell–associated neurotoxicity syndrome and 94 of 96 cases of cytokine release syndrome resolved with treatment. Additionally, only 20 patients (19.4%) developed antidrug antibodies. Cellular kinetic analysis confirmed CAR-positive T cells in all patients, with the longest duration at 735 days.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this trial, eque-cel led to early, deep, and durable responses in patients with heavily pretreated RRMM with a manageable safety profile. Patients with prior CAR T-cell therapy also benefitted from eque-cel.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry Identifier: ChiCTR2000033946
Bilateral Perifoveal Atrophy in a 46-Year-Old Woman
Authors: Bou Said Reeda , Barkmeier Andrew J.
Published: November 2024

A 46-year-old woman is referred for a second opinion with recent onset of suspected seizures and imbalance. Fundus examination revealed bilateral discrete perifoveal circular areas of atrophy. What would you do next?
Thermal Ablation for Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Yan Lin , Li Yingying , Li XinYang , Xiao Jing , Jing Haoyu , Yang Zhen , Li Miao , Song Qing , Wang Shurong , Che Ying , Luo Yukun
Published: November 2024

Importance

Image-guided thermal ablation has been administered for patients with T1N0M0 papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) who elect to not undergo surgery or receive active surveillance. Considering the indolent nature of PTC, long-term outcomes of ablation are needed.

Objective

To investigate l0-year outcomes of thermal ablation in treating T1N0M0 PTC.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This multicenter study was conducted at 4 university-affiliated hospitals in China and included 179 consecutive patients with T1N0M0 PTC (median [IQR] volume, 88.0 [163.2] mm3) who underwent thermal ablation between June 2010 and March 2014. Patients who were ineligible to undergo surgery or elected not to were included, and patients had PTC tumors that were smaller than 20 mm as confirmed by biopsy; no clinical or imaging evidence of extrathyroidal extension, lymph node metastasis (LNM), or distant metastasis; and no history of neck irradiation.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes were disease progression (LNM, newly developed tumors, persistent tumors, and distant metastasis) and disease-free survival (DFS). Secondary outcomes were technical success, volume reduction rate, tumor disappearance, complications, and delayed surgery. DFS was calculated using a Kaplan-Meier analysis.

Results

Among the 179 patients, the mean (SD) age was 45.8 (12.7) years, and 118 (65.9%) were female. During a mean (SD) follow-up period of 120.8 (10.8) months, disease progression was found in 11 of 179 patients (6.1%), including LNM in 4 patients (2.2%), newly developed tumors in 6 patients (3.3%), and persistent tumor in 1 patient (0.6%). The 10-year DFS was 93.9%. The technical success, median volume reduction rate, and tumor disappearance rate was 100%, 100%, and 97.2%, respectively. The magnitude of the disease progression (6.1% vs 7.1%; difference, 1.0%; 95% CI, −6.5% to 25.6%) and DFS (93.9% vs 92.9%; difference, 1.0%, 95% CI, −6.5% to 25.6%) between patients with T1a and T1b tumors was small. The difference in the rate of tumor disappearance between T1a and T1b tumors was large (99.4% vs 71.4%; difference, 28.0%; 95% CI, 10.9%-54.0%). One patient experienced transient voice hoarseness (0.6%). Because of anxiety, 1 patient underwent delayed surgery (0.6%).

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this 10-year multicenter cohort study suggest that thermal ablation is an effective and safe alternative for patients with T1N0M0 PTC who do not undergo surgery or receive active surveillance. For safe and effective treatment, accurate radiologic evaluation, an understanding of ablation techniques, and experienced physicians are recommended.
Single‐Atomic Co‐N‐C Sites Anchored on Helical Carbonaceous Nanotubes for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Zhang Jieling , Mou Yonghong , Suo Weiran , Yang Shujiao , Shen Jian , Xu Hui , Zeng Zequan , Zhang Rong , Liang Zuozhong , Wang Yuan , Zheng Haoquan , Cao Jiahao , Cao Rui
Published: November 2024

Metal‐coordinated N‐doped carbon (M‐N‐C) materials with highly curved structures have become a promising class of electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, the stability of these electrocatalysts remains a problem due to the traditional post‐metal loading strategy. Herein, single‐atomic Co‐N‐C active sites anchored on helical carbonaceous nanotubes (HCNTs) are prepared (Co‐N‐C@HCNT) by pyrolyzing Co porphyrins and helical polypyrroles (PPys) mixtures at high‐temperature by one‐step method. Aberration‐corrected high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF‐STEM) and X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) measurements confirm single‐atomic active sites and Co‐N4 coordination structures of Co‐N‐C@HCNT. The optimized Co‐N‐C@HCNT exhibits excellent catalytic ORR activity with a half‐wave potential (E1/2) of 0.86 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (vs RHE) compared to Co‐N‐C@CNT without helical structures (E1/2 = 0.81 V vs RHE) measured in 0.1 m KOH. Co‐N‐C@HCNT also displays excellent stability with a slight current decrease (4%) after running for 10 h featuring Co‐N4 active sites tightly anchored on HCNTs due to electrostatic interactions between metal porphyrins and PPys. Theoretical calculations indicate that the curved structure can increase the charge and decrease d‐band center at Co active site, which enhances electrocatalytic activity. This work provides a simple but effective strategy to construct helical M‐N‐C materials.
Quantification of Emission Efficiency in Persistent Luminescent Materials
Authors: Castaing Victor , Romero Manuel , Rytz Daniel , Lozano Gabriel , Míguez Hernán
Published: November 2024

Accurate quantification of efficiency enables rigorous comparison between different photoluminescent materials, providing an optimization path critical to the development of next‐generation light sources. Persistent luminescent materials exhibit delayed and long‐lasting luminescence due to the temporary storage of optical energy in engineered structural defects. Standard characterization methods do not provide a universal comparison of phosphor performance, hindering the evaluation of the efficiency of the various processes involved in afterglow. Here, a protocol is established to determine the quantum yield of persistent phosphors by considering the ratio of photons emitted in the afterglow and during charging to those absorbed. The method is first applied to transparent single crystals of the most common persistent phosphors, such as SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ and Y3Al2Ga3O12:Ce3+,Cr3+. The versatility of the methodology is demonstrated by quantifying the quantum yield of a ZnGa2O4:Cr3+ thin film, a material widely used in in vivo imaging. The high efficiency of strontium aluminate is confirmed, and a strong dependence of the obtained values on the illumination conditions is revealed, highlighting a trade‐off between efficiency and brightness. The results contribute to the development of standardized protocols for analyzing afterglow mechanisms and assessing overall efficiency, facilitating rigorous comparison and optimization of persistent materials beyond trial‐and‐error approaches.
All‐Dielectric Fiber Meta‐Tip for Alignment‐Tolerant Bidirectional Interconnect Between Single‐Mode and Multi‐Mode Fibers
Authors: Li Jinke , Li Hongliang , Choi Duk‐Yong , Kim Jin Tae , Lee Woo‐Bin , Lee Sang‐Shin
Published: November 2024

The growing demand for enhanced data transmission and network scalability requires connecting multi‐mode fibers (MMFs) to single‐mode fibers (SMFs). However, conventional fiber‐optic connector systems face challenges such as one‐way transmission, alignment issues, and bulkiness. In this study, an all‐dielectric metasurface (MS)‐based fiber‐coupling system engineered to facilitate alignment‐tolerant bidirectional optical interconnect at a communication wavelength of 1550 nm is proposed and demonstrated. The system features meticulously aligned fiber meta‐tips incorporating an MS integrated onto SMF and MMF facets. The MS collimates the divergent beam emitted from the fiber facet and focuses the collimated beam propagating through free space, enabling bidirectional transmission of optical signals between the SMF and MMF. The achieved performance includes a coupling efficiency of −5.6 dB, optimal radial and axial tolerances of 40 and 600 µm, respectively, an extinction ratio of 13.8 dB, and a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 24.3 dB at 10.3 Gb s−1. The proposed fiber meta‐tips highlight the potential of lab‐on‐fiber technology for optical communication, trapping, and biological sensing.
Complex Reflectivity Modulation Characteristics at Visible Wavelength Using Liquid Crystal on a Metasurface Device
Authors: Kim Yong‐Hae , Choi Kyunghee , Moon Jaehyun , Yang Jong‐Heon , Pi Jae‐Eun , Choi Ji‐Hun , Hwang Chi‐Sun , Yu Jeong‐Seon , Kim Jong‐Hyun
Published: November 2024

Active metasurface device capable of complex modulation in the visible light range is demonstrated. To realize complex modulation, a liquid crystal (LC) of twisted nematic mode on a plasmonic antenna metasurface, where resonance wavelength is sensitive to its geometry and nearby optical environment, is integrated. For the LC process on the metasurface, the alignment characteristics of the material exposed to the LC on the metasurface are first identified and the polyimide alignment layer is omitted. The LC works in twisted nematic mode to enhance complex modulation characteristics. The complex reflectivity coefficient is measured while varying the voltage applied to both the antenna and metal electrode in the visible light region. Complex reflectivity into a doughnut shape with a small voltage variation of 3.1 V on the antenna electrode and 2.5 V on the metal electrode is successfully modulated. The largest complex modulation is achieved at a wavelength of 660 nm, with phase and reflectivity amplitude modulations of 0–2π radian in a doughnut shape and 0.3 and 0.6, respectively. So far true holographic experience is limited by high‐order overlapping and twin images. Through this approach, a technical method is suggested for overcoming such obstacles and accomplishing advanced holographic display.
Tailoring Second Harmonic Generation via Strong Coupling in a One‐Dimensional Photonic Crystal Heterostructure
Authors: Zhu Ying , Ma Ruize , Dong Anlong , Xu Hangsheng , Wang Chunhua , Qin Meng , Liu Jianqiang , Li Hongju
Published: November 2024

Controlling harmonic generation is crucial for nonlinear optics and nanophotonic devices. Herein, a 1D photonic crystal heterostructure is theoretically proposed comprising a metal film, a lithium niobate layer, and a distributed Bragg reflector with a defect layer. The Tamm state and the defect state for dual‐band second‐harmonic generation (SHG) enhancement simultaneously are numerically investigated. Finite‐element method simulations indicate that SHG efficiencies based on Tamm plasmons and the defect state are 6.85 × 10−6 and 3.28 × 10−4, respectively. Intriguingly, the strong coupling between the defect state and Tamm plasmons enables spatial energy exchange, leading to the SHG switching between them. In the strong coupling region with Rabi splitting energy up to 5.5 meV, the SHG conversion efficiency reaching 5 × 10−5 is observed for both two new hybridized states. During the entire anticrossing Rabi splitting process, the SHG efficiency difference between two resonances can be modulated by up to two orders of magnitude. The coupling strength between two resonances is adjusted by varying the position of the defect layer. Simulation results are consistent with the coupled oscillator model. This work not only offers a platform for studying nonlinear frequency conversion but also establishes a new method of using strong coupling to tailor SHG.
Probing Optoelectronic Properties of Stable Vacancy‐Ordered Double Perovskites: Insights from Many‐Body Perturbation Theory
Authors: Adhikari Surajit , Johari Priya
Published: November 2024

vacancy‐ordered double perovskites (VODPs) have captured substantial research interest in the scientific community as they offer environmentally friendly and stable alternatives to lead halide perovskites. In this study, the investigation is focused on (B = Ti, Se, Ru, Pd) VODPs as promising optoelectronic materials employing state‐of‐the‐art first‐principles‐based methodologies, specifically density functional theory combined with density functional perturbation theory (DFPT) and many‐body perturbation theory (within the framework of GW and BSE). These calculations reveal that all these materials possess a cubic lattice structure and are both dynamically and mechanically stable. Interestingly, they all exhibit indirect bandgaps, except displays a metallic character. The bandgap values for these compounds fall within the range of 3.63 to 5.14 eV. Additionally, the results of the BSE indicate that they exhibit exceptional absorption capabilities across the near‐UV to mid‐UV light region. Furthermore, studies on transport and excitonic properties suggest that they exhibit lower effective electron masses compared to holes, with exciton binding energies spanning between 0.16 and 0.98 eV. A significant observation is the prevalent hole‐phonon coupling compared to electron‐phonon coupling in these compounds. Overall, this study provides valuable insights to guide the design of vacancy‐ordered double perovskites as promising lead‐free candidates for future optoelectronic applications.
Prospective of Magnetron Sputtering for Interface Design in Rechargeable Lithium Batteries
Authors: Yao Yifan , Jiao Xingxing , Xu Xieyu , Xiong Shizhao , Song Zhongxiao , Liu Yangyang
Published: November 2024

Rechargeable lithium batteries (LBs) are considered the most promising electrochemical energy storage systems for utilizing renewable energies like solar and wind, ushering society into an electric era. However, the development of LBs faces challenges due to interfacial issues caused by side reactions between existing electrode and electrolyte materials. Magnetron sputtering (MS), a type of physical vapor deposition technology, offers solutions with its wide material selection, gentle deposition process, high uniformity of nano/micro‐scale thin films, and strong thin‐film adhesion. This review outlines the main operating principles of MS technology and explores its advanced applications in interfacial modification of various cathodes, anodes, separators, solid‐state electrolytes, and thin‐film LBs integrated with other microelectronic devices. Furthermore, the review discusses the potential of MS technology to accelerate scientific research and industrial progress toward higher‐performance LBs, advancing human society.
Evaluation of Ethanolic Extract of Red Seaweed (Gracilariopsis lemaneiformis) on Growth and Haematological Parameters of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Shahabuddin A. M. , Hannan Md. Abdul , Hossain Md. Foysul , Hemal Shahrear , Khanam Runi , Afroz Tahmina , Mustafa Ahmed
Published: November 2024

Seaweed is multicellular marine macroalgae that enhances the immunity of aquatic organisms. The study was designed to assess the ethanolic extract (EtOH) extracted from red seaweed (Gracilariopsis lemaneiformis) on Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) to evaluate growth, immunity and haematological parameters. The EtOH was applied with fish feed in four treatments such as T1‐control (0% EtOH), T2 (5% w/v EtOH), T3 (10% w/v EtOH) and T4 (15% w/v EtOH) each with three replicates. The initial average weight of the fish was 17.53 ± 2.1 g. Results showed that the growth increased gradually with the percentage of red seaweed extract, whereas the mean weight gain was found significantly higher in T4 (51.5 ± 4.2) than in the control. The specific growth rate (%) and survival rate (%) were found higher in T4 at the lowest FCR compared to other treatments (p < 0.05). The blood haemoglobin level of Nile tilapia was higher in T4 (11.5 g/dL) and lowest recorded in T1 (7.5 g/dL). However, the level of blood glucose interacted inversely with blood haemoglobin. The plasma protein level was also varied among the treatments (p > 0.05). The blood parameters, refractive index (RI) and spleen somatic index (SSI) were significantly different among the treatments. The RI of blood plasma and SSI were found to be better in T4 treatment. The research indicated that red seaweed extracts significantly enhanced the growth and boosted the immunity level of Nile tilapia.
Technology that CARES: Enhancing dementia care through everyday technologies
Authors: Kiselica Andrew M. , Hermann Greta E , Scullin Michael K. , Benge Jared F.
Published: November 2024

“Everyday technologies” have long been suggested as digital tools to improve life for and enhance care of persons with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). Within this realm, there is a need to balance potential drawbacks of technologies with their ability to positively impact patient and care partner centered outcomes. To facilitate this goal, we endeavored to provide a common language and conceptual structure to understand digital technology use in ADRD care. Specifically, we describe the pathways by which researchers might develop and deploy technology, including via Cognitive offloading, Automation, Remote monitoring, Emotional/social support, and Symptom treatment (CARES). In addition, we highlight emerging issues in technology‐based care research and provide relevant caveats regarding application of digital technologies in the real world. This discussion provides a framework to organize science on the application of technologies to ADRD care in the future.

Highlights

“Everyday technologies” have long been suggested as digital tools to improve life for and enhance care of persons with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD).

However, the potential benefits of digital technologies must be balanced against their possible drawbacks.

We describe the pathways by which researchers might develop and deploy technology that CARES, including via Cognitive offloading, Automation, Remote monitoring, Emotional/social support, and Symptom treatment.

This discussion provides a framework to organize science on the application of digital technologies to ADRD care in the future.
Global brain activity and its coupling with cerebrospinal fluid flow is related to tau pathology
Authors: Han Feng , Lee JiaQie , Chen Xi , Ziontz Jacob , Ward Tyler , Landau Susan M. , Baker Suzanne L. , Harrison Theresa M. , Jagust William J. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION

Factors responsible for the deposition of pathological tau in the brain are incompletely understood. This study links macroscale tau deposition in the human brain to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow dynamics using resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI).

METHODS

Low‐frequency (< 0.1 Hz) resting‐state global brain activity is coupled with CSF flow and potentially reflects CSF dynamics‐related clearance. We examined the correlation between rsfMRI measures of CSF inflow and global activity (gBOLD–CSF coupling) as a predictor, interacting with amyloid beta (Aβ), of tau and cortical thickness (dependent variables) across Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) participants from cognitively unimpaired through mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD).

RESULTS

Tau deposition in Aβ+ participants, accompanied by cortical thinning and cognitive decline, is associated with decreased gBOLD–CSF coupling. Tau mediates the relationship between coupling and thickness.

DISCUSSION

Findings suggest that resting‐state global brain activity and CSF movements comodulate Alzheimer's tau deposition, presumably related to CSF clearance.

Highlights

A non‐invasive functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) assessment of a CSF clearance‐related process is carried out.

Global brain activity is coupled with CSF inflow in human fMRI during resting state.

Global fMRI–CSF coupling is correlated with tau in Alzheimer's disease (AD).

This coupling measure is also associated with cortical thickness, mediated by tau.
Scalable Atomic‐Layer Tailoring of Abundant Oxide Supports Unlocks Superior Interfaces for Low‐Metal‐Loading Dehydrogenation
Authors: Kwak Yeonsu , Lee Yu‐Jin , Moon Seongeun , Lee Kimoon , Ramadhani Safira , On Eui‐Rim , Ahn Chang‐il , Hwang Son‐Jong , Sohn Hyuntae , Jeong Hyangsoo , Nam Suk Woo , Yoon Chang Won , Kim Yongmin
Published: November 2024

Liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) offer a promising solution for global hydrogen infrastructure, but their practical application faces two key challenges: sluggish dehydrogenation processes and the reliance on catalysts with high noble metal loadings. This study presents a scalable approach to reduce noble metal usage while maintaining high catalytic activity. We synthesized an ultralow Pt content (0.1 wt %) catalyst using γ‐Al2O3‐based pellet support with atomic layer deposition (ALD) of TiO2. Advanced characterization techniques reveal that the thin ALD‐TiO2 shell provides a heterogeneous interface, confining electronically rich Pt‐nanoparticle ensembles. The catalyst outperforms both equivalent Pt‐content catalysts and a commercial 0.5 wt % Pt/γ‐Al2O3 catalyst in homocyclic LOHC dehydrogenation. This study provides insights into the beneficial role of ALD‐engineered interfaces for catalytic supports and offers an efficient approach for scalable production of low‐noble‐metal‐content catalysts, with implications for various catalytic processes.
Electrical conductivity enhancement of chopped carbon fiber‐reinforced epoxy composite bipolar plate for proton exchange membrane fuel cells
Authors: Hanapi Iesti Hajar , Kamarudin Siti Kartom , Zainoodin Azran Mohd , Masdar Mohd Shahbudin , Kamarudin Siti Radiah Mohd , Radzuan Nabilah Afiqah Mohd , Beygisangchin Mahnoush , Zakaria Zulfirdaus
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the development of chopped carbon fiber (CCF)‐reinforced epoxy (EP)/graphite (G) composite bipolar plates (BPs) using a one‐step compression molding process. The primary objective was to fabricate CCF‐reinforced EP/G BPs to enhance their electrical conductivity performance by evaluating the electrical conductivity and compactness of the plate among expanded graphite (EG), carbon black (CB) Vulcan, a combination of EG and CB Vulcan, and CB Ensaco. The results indicated that the EG exhibited the highest electrical conductivity of 9.3 S cm−1 and compactness due to the low surface area. Consequently, CCF‐reinforced EP/G/EG was selected for further optimization using response surface methodology (RSM) to analyze the parameters of EG composition, CCF composition, and temperature for optimizing electrical conductivity and porosity. The optimum conductivity and porosity of the CCF‐reinforced EP/G/EG reached 22.7 S cm−1 and 9.84% with EG composition, CCF composition, and temperature of 7.56 wt.%, 6.63 wt.%, and 186°C, respectively. After optimization, EP/G/EG was connected to a circuit to light up a bulb. It showed a substantial improvement in illumination compared with the samples before optimization. Therefore, the use of CCF‐reinforced EP/G/EG with one‐step compression molding has proven highly successful for converting energy in renewable energy applications, showcasing exceptional performance.
Music therapy improves engagement and initiation for autistic children with mild intellectual disabilities: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Yum Yen Na , Poon Kean , Lau Way Kwok‐Wai , Ho Fuk Chuen , Sin Kuen Fung , Chung King Man , Lee Ho Yan , Liang Di Chao
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of music therapy (MT) for children with co‐occurring autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disabilities (ID) and explore whether pre‐intervention quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG) responses can predict outcomes. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 33 children receiving MT and 34 receiving an active control therapy. Participants received either MT or a non‐musical social skills intervention for 45 min weekly over 12 weeks. Primary outcomes were measured using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS‐2), along with the parent‐rated Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS‐2) and video coding of social behaviors. Both conditions significantly improved in CARS‐2 scores at 2 weeks and 4 months post‐intervention, with no differences between MT and control conditions. No changes were found in SRS‐2 scores. While both conditions showed reduced disengagement after intervention, only the MT condition showed increased engagement and initiation. Strong qEEG responses to social scenes and music predicted increased initiation, indicating its potential to help tailor interventions. These results support incorporating MT into standard services and further research on qEEG predictors.
Multilingualism impacts children's executive function and core autism symptoms
Authors: Romero Celia , Goodman Zachary T. , Kupis Lauren , Dirks Bryce , Parlade Meaghan V. , Beaumont Amy L. , Cardona Sandra M. , Nomi Jason S. , Alessandri Michael , Perry Lynn K. , Uddin Lucina Q.
Published: November 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with marked heterogeneity in executive function (EF) abilities. EF components including inhibition and shifting are related to ASD core symptoms such as perspective taking, social communication, and repetitive behavior. Recent research suggests that multilingualism may have a beneficial impact on EF abilities, especially in children with ASD. However, there remains a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the relationships between multilingualism, EF, and core symptoms in children with ASD. Here, we examined these associations in 7–12‐year‐old children with and without ASD (N = 116; 53 ASD, Mean age = 9.94 years). Results suggest that multilingual children have stronger parent‐reported inhibition, shifting, and perspective‐taking skills than monolingual children. Furthermore, we found a significant interaction between diagnosis and multilingual status on inhibition, such that the effects of multilingualism were stronger for children with ASD than typically developing (TD) children. Finally, we found indirect effects of multilingualism on perspective taking, social communication, and repetitive behaviors mediated by EF skills. These results demonstrate the supportive influences multilingual experience might have on bolstering EF and reducing ASD‐related symptoms.
Mixture Cure Semiparametric Accelerated Failure Time Models With Partly Interval‐Censored Data
Authors: Li Isabel , Ma Jun , Liquet Benoit
Published: November 2024

In practical survival analysis, the situation of no event for a patient can arise even after a long period of waiting time, which means a portion of the population may never experience the event of interest. Under this circumstance, one remedy is to adopt a mixture cure Cox model to analyze the survival data. However, if there clearly exhibits an acceleration (or deceleration) factor among their survival times, then an accelerated failure time (AFT) model will be preferred, leading to a mixture cure AFT model. In this paper, we consider a penalized likelihood method to estimate the mixture cure semiparametric AFT models, where the unknown baseline hazard is approximated using Gaussian basis functions. We allow partly interval‐censored survival data which can include event times and left‐, right‐, and interval‐censoring times. The penalty function helps to achieve a smooth estimate of the baseline hazard function. We will also provide asymptotic properties to the estimates so that inferences can be made on regression parameters and hazard‐related quantities. Simulation studies are conducted to evaluate the model performance, which includes a comparative study with an existing method from the smcure R package. The results show that our proposed penalized likelihood method has acceptable performance in general and produces less bias when faced with the identifiability issue compared to smcure. To illustrate the application of our method, a real case study involving melanoma recurrence is conducted and reported. Our model is implemented in our R package aftQnp which is available from https://github.com/Isabellee4555/aftQnP.
A novel, sensitive, and fast ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method for TNG908 determination in dog plasma and pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Zhu Weiwei , Zhang Huiying , Li Fan
Published: November 2024

TNG908 is a potent and selective protein arginase methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) inhibitor that is currently going through phase I/II clinical development for the treatment of non‐small cell lung cancer. To facilitate pharmacokinetic and toxicokinetic studies of TNG908, here, we reported an ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS) method for the detection of TNG908 in dogs. The dog plasma samples were precipitated by acetonitrile and analyzed using a Waters ACQUITY BEH C18 column combined with a Thermo triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The mobile phase consisted of 0.1% formic acid solution and acetonitrile, at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min. TNG908 and internal standard were monitored by selective reaction monitoring (SRM) with m/z 410.2 > 150.1 and m/z 394.2 > 278.1, respectively. The method demonstrated excellent linearity over the concentration range of 1–1000 ng/mL, with a correlation coefficient greater than 0.995. Acetonitrile‐mediated protein precipitation showed high extraction efficiency and a recovery above 80%. The validated assay was further applied to measure TNG908 in dog plasma after oral and intravenous administration and achieved success. The obtained pharmacokinetic parameters indicated low clearance of TNG908 (3.7 ± 0.8 mL/min/kg) and moderate oral bioavailability (>36.4%).
Mechanical Thrombectomy for Treatment of Acute Cerebral Infarction due to Distal Medium Vessel Occlusions: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zhang Lihong , Su Fanfan , Zhang Jianhui , Xu Jia , Zhao Manhong , Li Di , Yin Lin
Published: November 2024

Background

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is standard of care for acute cerebral infarction (ACI) due to large vessel occlusions. However, its clinical efficacy in patients with ACI due to distal medium vessel occlusions (DMVOs) remains unclear. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of MT in patients with ACI due to DMVOs.

Methods

Totally, 306 patients with ACI at a very early stage were assigned into DMVOs‐MT, M1‐MT, and DMVOs‐intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) groups. These groups were compared regarding baseline data, recanalization rate, location of vessel occlusions, number of thrombectomy, first‐pass recanalization, mRS scores, NIHSS scores, 90‐day mRS scores, incidence of adverse events, and mortality. Risk factors for poor prognosis of patients with DMVOs following MT were analyzed.

Results

DMVOs‐MT and M1‐MT groups showed comparable first‐pass recanalization rates, recanalization rates, and NIHSS score reduction ratios, with marked differences in location of vessel occlusions. Versus DMVOs‐IVT, DMVOs‐MT had increased differences between pre‐ and post‐treatment NIHSS scores and between pre‐treatment NIHSS scores and NIHSS scores at discharge and elevated NIHSS reduction ratios. The poor prognosis rate of DMVOs‐MT group was insignificantly different from that of M1‐MT group but lower than that of DMVOs‐IVT group. Adverse events and mortality incidences were comparable among the three groups. Diabetes, first‐pass recanalization, and pre‐treatment NIHSS scores were independent risk factors for poor prognosis in DMVO patients after MT.

Conclusion

MT is as effective and safe in patients with DMVOs as in patients with M1 occlusions. In patients with DMVOs, MT has higher efficacy and safety than IVT.