bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy evaluation for a dynamic and reconfigurable TWDM‐PON on a novel network traffic adaptable pattern
Authors: Mbelu Okechukwu Ernest , Toycan Mehmet , Bashiry Vali , Köse Ali
Published: September 2024

Even with existing methodologies, dynamic resource allocation, service inconsistency, operational costs, and excess energy/power consumption in optical access networks remain the key challenges for the next‐generation passive optical network (NG‐PON) design and development. This paper introduces a novel method for analyzing energy/power consumption in time and wavelength division multiplexed (TWDM) passive optical networks (PONs) with a ring‐based topology. We propose subscriber‐based channel allocation models (CAMs) for on‐demand services, allocate bandwidth dynamically, and evaluate their downstream power consumption. To determine the necessary optical devices for the various CAMs, we investigate subscriber take‐up rates by optimizing the utilization of optical components based on active subscribers. Implementing a novel Poisson distribution‐based network traffic model addresses energy‐related concerns and explores optimization techniques to minimize power and improve energy efficiency. With a take‐up rate of 64 active subscribers, simulation results show significant power consumption reductions ranging from 62.2 to 67.7%, achieved by the proposed subscriber‐based architecture models with varying subscriber counts, when compared with the conventional model. The model with the most subscribers (2048 subscribers) saves the most energy by reducing power consumption to 292 W from the conventional model's (2048 subscribers) 440 W. Furthermore, the model with the most subscribers saves 33.4% of energy, outperforming other subscriber‐based architecture models without affecting QoS even during peak hours of the day. These numerical results show that TWDM‐PONs with the most subscribers exhibit improved energy efficiency than the conventional and other proposed subscriber‐based architecture models.
A Guide to Environmental DNA Extractions for Non‐Molecular Trained Biologists, Ecologists, and Conservation Scientists
Authors: Rieder Jessica , Jemmi Eliane , Hunter Margaret E. , Adrian‐Kalchhauser Irene
Published: September 2024

Ecologists, biologists, and conservation scientists are increasingly interested in the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) data for research and potentially decision‐making. While commercial DNA extraction kits are typically user‐friendly and accessible, they may fail to deliver the desired results with inherently complex eDNA samples, necessitating protocol optimization or educated selection of alternative approaches. To this end, knowledge of the basic steps and principles of DNA extractions is essential, but traditional education tracks in ecology, conservation, and environmental management typically do not include in‐depth training in molecular methods. The primary objective of this paper is to enable scientists with an ecological background and limited molecular training to understand the four key steps of eDNA isolations, and to use this expertise to their advantage. We describe the purpose of commonly used reagents and chemicals, point out alternatives for each key step, explain the impact of certain choices regarding isolation approaches on DNA integrity and purity, and highlight the possibility of a tailor‐made “mix and match” approach. We anticipate that this paper will enable field ecologists to develop a deeper understanding of the mechanisms and chemistry underlying eDNA extractions, thus allowing them to make informed decisions regarding the best eDNA extraction method for their research goals. Our intention is not to provide comprehensive, step‐by‐step protocols, but to offer guiding principles while highlighting alternative solutions. Finally, we hope that this paper will act as a useful resource to support knowledge transfer and teaching.
Synthesis of Hemiindigo Derivatives via a Gold‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Cyclization Strategy
Authors: Dong Yi‐Fan , Wang Si‐Ru , Chai Hao‐Bo , Xu Zhi‐Qiang , He Zeng‐Yang , Wang Zhen‐Yu , Li You‐Gui , Wu Xiang
Published: September 2024

We described a gold‐catalyzed synthesis of Z‐hemiindigo frameworks from ortho‐propynol phenyl azides via the β‐hydroxy‐α‐imino gold carbene intermediates. The intermediates are trapped by water or acetone and then subsequently undergo enol tautomerization and dehydration, or release of acetone. The reaction has the advantage of being able to be carried out under mild conditions and in a gram‐scale. Importantly, this method enables a simple and efficient synthesis of the special hemiindigo derivatives for the development of environmentally sensitive photoswitches in biological systems.
Direct determination of chronic myeloid leukemia prevalence in Lombardy—Italy: Global implications
Authors: Polverelli N. , Anghilieri M. , Elena C. , Intermesoli T. , Pungolino E. , D’Adda M. , Iurlo A. , Maffioli M. , Lunghi F. , Bertolli V. , Orofino N. , Sissa C. , Fiamenghi C. , Gardellini A. , Ubezio M. , Carraro M. C. , Corradini P. , Giglio F. , Pasquini M. C. , Palazzolo R. , Calori R. , Ercolanoni M. , Gambacorti‐Passerini C.
Published: September 2024

Lombardy represents the largest region of Italy by population, with almost 10 million residents, a dimension similar to a medium size country like Sweden or Belgium. The CML subcommittee of the Lombardy Hematology Network (REL‐CML) conducted a study at the beginning of 2023. Prevalence was calculated by direct input from the 21 centers participating in REL‐CML. Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKI) prescription records collected from the ARIA regional registry were used to estimate the number of CML patients followed in smaller centers not participating in REL‐CML. A total of 2285 patients were registered, representing a prevalence of 0.23 ‰. These data were compared to a similar census conducted in 2005, at the beginning of the TKI era, where a prevalence of 0.029‰ was calculated. This indicates that an almost 10 times increase took place during this period of time. Imatinib represents the most frequently prescribed first‐line TKI; its use in 2022 still represented 75% of total first line prescriptions. An increased concentration of the care of CML patients in specialized REL centers with a decreased dispersion of patients in small centers was also evident over this 18 year period of time. Nineteen % of patients discontinued treatment, highlighting persisting logistical and biological challenges; one some recommendations on CML management are included to this aim.
CasUNeXt: A Cascaded Transformer With Intra‐ and Inter‐Scale Information for Medical Image Segmentation
Authors: Sun Junding , Zheng Xiaopeng , Wu Xiaosheng , Tang Chaosheng , Wang Shuihua , Zhang Yudong
Published: September 2024

Due to the Transformer's ability to capture long‐range dependencies through Self‐Attention, it has shown immense potential in medical image segmentation. However, it lacks the capability to model local relationships between pixels. Therefore, many previous approaches embedded the Transformer into the CNN encoder. However, current methods often fall short in modeling the relationships between multi‐scale features, specifically the spatial correspondence between features at different scales. This limitation can result in the ineffective capture of scale differences for each object and the loss of features for small targets. Furthermore, due to the high complexity of the Transformer, it is challenging to integrate local and global information within the same scale effectively. To address these limitations, we propose a novel backbone network called CasUNeXt, which features three appealing design elements: (1) We use the idea of cascade to redesign the way CNN and Transformer are combined to enhance modeling the unique interrelationships between multi‐scale information. (2) We design a Cascaded Scale‐wise Transformer Module capable of cross‐scale interactions. It not only strengthens feature extraction within a single scale but also models interactions between different scales. (3) We overhaul the multi‐head Channel Attention mechanism to enable it to model context information in feature maps from multiple perspectives within the channel dimension. These design features collectively enable CasUNeXt to better integrate local and global information and capture relationships between multi‐scale features, thereby improving the performance of medical image segmentation. Through experimental comparisons on various benchmark datasets, our CasUNeXt method exhibits outstanding performance in medical image segmentation tasks, surpassing the current state‐of‐the‐art methods.
Probing the effects of polysaccharide hydrogel composition on the viability and pro‐angiogenic function of human adipose‐derived stromal cells
Authors: Serack Fiona E. , Fennell Kaylee A. , Iliopoulos Christina , Walker John T. , Ronald John A. , Amsden Brian G. , Hess David A. , Flynn Lauren E.
Published: September 2024

Cell therapies harnessing the pro‐vascular regenerative capacities of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) populations, including human adipose‐derived stromal cells (hASCs), have generated considerable interest as an emerging treatment strategy for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and its progression to critical limb ischemia (CLI). There is evidence to support that polysaccharide hydrogels can enhance therapeutic efficacy when applied as minimally‐invasive delivery systems to support MSC survival and retention within ischemic tissues. However, there has been limited research to date on the effects of hydrogel composition on the phenotype and function of encapsulated cell populations. Recognizing this knowledge gap, this study compared the pro‐angiogenic function of hASCs encapsulated in distinct but similarly‐modified natural polysaccharide hydrogels composed of methacrylated glycol chitosan (MGC) and methacrylated hyaluronic acid (MHA). Initial in vitro studies confirmed high viability (>85%) of the hASCs following encapsulation and culture in the MGC and MHA hydrogels over 14 days, with a decrease in the cell density observed over time. Moreover, higher levels of a variety of secreted pro‐angiogenic and immunomodulatory factors were detected in conditioned media samples collected from the hASCs encapsulated in the MGC‐based hydrogels compared to the MHA hydrogels. Subsequent testing focused on comparing hASC delivery within the MGC and MHA hydrogels to saline controls in a femoral artery ligation‐induced CLI (FAL‐CLI) model in athymic nu/nu mice over 28 days. For the in vivo studies, the hASCs were engineered to express tdTomato and firefly luciferase to quantitatively compare the efficacy of the two platforms in supporting the localized retention of viable hASCs through longitudinal cell tracking with bioluminescence imaging (BLI). Interestingly, hASC retention was significantly enhanced when the cells were delivered in the MHA hydrogels as compared to the MGC hydrogels or saline. However, laser Doppler perfusion imaging (LDPI) indicated that the restoration of hindlimb perfusion was similar between the treatment groups and controls. These findings were corroborated by endpoint immunofluorescence (IF) staining showing similar levels of CD31+ cells in the ligated limbs at 28 days in all groups. Overall, this study demonstrates that enhanced MSC retention may be insufficient to augment vascular regeneration, emphasizing the complexity of designing biomaterials platforms for MSC delivery for therapeutic angiogenesis. In addition, the data points to a potential challenge in approaches that seek to harness the paracrine functionality of MSCs, as strategies that increase the secretion of immunomodulatory factors that can aid in regeneration may also lead to more rapid MSC clearance in vivo.
The use of virtual reality and augmented reality in ultrasound education, a narrative review of the literature
Authors: Saliba Thomas , Pather Sanjiva
Published: September 2024

Immersive virtual reality (IVR) and augmented reality (AR) are emerging technologies with significant potential in ultrasound education. IVR, utilizing head‐mounted devices (HMDs), and AR, enhancing real‐world views with digital overlays, have demonstrated their value in various educational and training scenarios. This narrative review examines the use of IVR and AR in ultrasound education, evaluating their effectiveness compared to traditional methods. Studies show that IVR and AR can match or surpass conventional training, offering benefits like standardized assessments and reduced costs. Despite some limitations, such as small sample sizes and potential conflicts of interest, the current data supports the viability of IVR and AR as tools for ultrasound education. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore broader applications.
Jaw relation recording and transferring: Using digital technology to augment its instruction in predoctoral prosthodontics
Authors: Zhang Yan‐yan , Yu Mei‐qi , He Yong‐hao , Liu Fei , Shen Jie‐fei
Published: September 2024

Objectives

The study compared the learning effectiveness and teaching satisfaction of dental students from three teaching methods (traditional, digital, and combined pedagogy) for instructing jaw relation recording and transferring (JRRT).

Methods

Note that, 276 fourth‐year undergraduate students from three classes were randomly divided into three groups to study JRRT in complete dentures using different teaching methods: traditional pedagogy group, digital pedagogy group, and combined digital and traditional pedagogy group. After the course, the learning effectiveness of basic knowledge and satisfaction questionnaire was administered to the three groups of participants using a quick response code for online answering. The questionnaire was customized by the teacher based on the content delivered to each group.

Results

The data were analyzed using the Chi‐square test with Fisher's exact test. Both the digital and combined pedagogy groups showed a significant increase in basic knowledge test scores and higher satisfaction, compared to the traditional pedagogy group (p < 0.01). Particularly, the participants from combined pedagogy showed better teaching satisfaction than the digital pedagogy group (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The use of digital technology in JRRT significantly enhanced students' learning effectiveness and teaching satisfaction.

Clinical significance

This educational innovation emphasizes digital technology to visualize vital concepts and operational intricacies related to JRRT. The findings have major implications for improving teaching methods in the field of prosthodontic dentistry.
Comparison of Helicobacter pylori in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients with and without gastrointestinal symptoms
Authors: Saeedi Amin , Bagheri Afshin Mohammad , Raesi Rasoul , Hushmandi Kiavash , Daneshi Salman , Domari Asma Amiri , Gholamzadeh Mohammadhossein , Kargar Shiva
Published: September 2024

Background and Aim

Helicobacter pylori plays an important role in causing digestive diseases. The purpose of this study is to investigate Helicobacter pylori in COVID‐19 patients with and without gastrointestinal symptoms.

Methods

In this case–control study, all patients with COVID‐19 admitted to Imam Khomeini Hospital in Jiroft city in 2021 were convenience sampled and divided into two homogeneous groups. Ninety‐five patients with COVID‐19, who presented with gastrointestinal symptoms, were included in the case group, while 95 patients with COVID‐19 without gastrointestinal symptoms were included in the control group. Noninvasive diagnostic methods, including serology and stool antigen tests, were used to identify Helicobacter pylori in the studied patients.

Results

Fifty‐three people (55.8%) from the case group had Helicobacter pylori, and 48 (50.5%) from the control group had Helicobacter pylori. Among the 53 people from the case group, 27 (50.9%) were men and 26 (49.1%) were women. Nineteen people (35.8%) were taking pantoprazole, 10 people (18.8%) were taking nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, 20 people (37.7%) were taking narcotics, and 7 people (13.2%) had peptic ulcer. Seven people (13.2%) had an H2 blocker, and 21 people had an underlying disease. A significant relationship between infection with Helicobacter pylori and the use of pantoprazole, nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, narcotics, peptic ulcer, underlying disease, and H2 blocker in COVID‐19 patients with gastrointestinal symptoms and without gastrointestinal symptoms was present (P‐value < 0.05).

Conclusion

The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with COVID‐19, who have gastrointestinal symptoms, is high and should be considered as a treatment criterion for people infected with COVID‐19.
Abnormal Structural–Functional Coupling and MRI Alterations of Brain Network Topology in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy
Authors: Qu Junyu , Zhu Rui , Wu Yongsheng , Xu Guihua , Wang Dawei
Published: September 2024

Background

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) can cause structural and functional brain reconstruction. There is a lack of knowledge about the consistency between structural–functional (S–F) connection networks in PSP, despite growing evidence of anomalies in various single brain network parameters.

Purpose

To study the changes in the structural and functional networks of PSP, network's topological properties including degree, and the consistency of S–F coupling. The relationship with clinical scales was examined including the assessment of PSP severity, and so on.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

A total of 51 PSP patients (70.04 ± 7.46, 25 females) and 101 healthy controls (64.58 ± 8.84, 58 females).

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, resting‐state functional MRI, diffusion tensor imaging, and T1‐weighted images.

Assessment

A graph‐theoretic approach was used to evaluate structural and functional network topology metrics. We used the S–F coupling changes to explore the consistency of structural and functional networks.

Statistical Tests

Independent samples t tests were employed for continuous variables, χ2 tests were used for categorical variables. For network analysis, two‐sample t tests was used and implied an false discovery rate (FDR) correction. Pearson correlation analysis was used to explore the correlations. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

PSP showed variations within and between modules. Specifically, PSP had decreased network properties changes (t = −2.0136; t = 2.5409; t = −2.5338; t = −2.4296; t = −2.5338; t = 2.8079). PSP showed a lower coupling in the thalamus and left putamen and a higher coupling in the visual, somatomotor, dorsal attention, and ventral attention network. S–F coupling was related to the number of network connections (r = 0.32, r = 0.22) and information transmission efficiency (r = 0.55, r = 0.28). S–F coupling was related to basic academic ability (r = 0.39) and disinhibition (r = 0.49).

Data Conclusion

PSP may show abnormal S–F coupling and intramodular and intermodular connectome in the structural and functional networks.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Pentylenetetrazole‐Induced Seizures Cause Short‐Term Changes in the Phenotype of Microglial and Astroglial Cells in the Hippocampus and Temporal Cortex of Young Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Zakharova Maria V. , Kovalenko Anna A. , Zubareva Olga E. , Schwarz Alexander P. , Postnikova Tatiana Y. , Trofimova Alina M. , Zaitsev Aleksey V.
Published: September 2024

Astrocytes and microglia can adopt two distinct phenotypes in various pathological processes: neurotoxic A1/M1 and neuroprotective A2/M2. Recent evidence suggests that these cells play a significant role in epileptogenesis. The objective of this study was to characterize the phenotype of astrocytes and microglial cells in the hippocampus and temporal cortex of young male Wistar rats at 3 h, 1, 3, and 7 days after pentylenetetrazole‐induced seizures. RT‐qPCR was employed to examine the expression of glial genes (Gfap, Aif1, Slc1a1, Slc1a2, Slc1a3, Itpr2, Gdnf, Bdnf, Fgf2, Tgfb, Il1b, Tnf, Il1rn, Lcn2, S100a10, Nlrp3, Arg1). The most notable alterations in the expression of glial genes were observed on the first day following seizures in the temporal cortex. An increase in the expression of the Gfap, Slc1a2, Slc1a1, Il1b, Tnfa, Bdnf, and Fgf2 genes, and the A2 astrocyte condition marker S100a10, was observed. An increase in the expression of the Gfap and Slc1a2 genes was observed in the hippocampus on the first day after seizures. However, in contrast to the changes observed in the cortex, the changes in the hippocampus were opposite for the Il1rn, Bdnf, Tgfb, and Arg1 genes. Nevertheless, the alterations in GFAP and EAAT2 protein levels were not corroborated by Western blot analysis. Conversely, a more comprehensive immunohistochemical analysis confirmed an augmentation in the number of GFAP‐positive cells in the hippocampus 1 day after seizures. Based on the presented evidence, we can conclude that a single convulsive seizure episode in 3‐week‐old rats results in transient astroglial activation and polarization to a neuroprotective phenotype (A2).
Variations and comparisons in hourly and daily precipitation extremes over eastern China in recent warming periods
Authors: Qi Yimeng , Huang Danqing , Chen Jiao , Zeng Jinwen , Liu Anqi
Published: September 2024

Under global warming, a notable intensification of precipitation extremes has posed significant threats to both natural ecosystems and human societies. However, there is still a lack of systematic studies on the variability of hourly precipitation extremes and a comparison with daily precipitation extremes. This study introduces a set of indices for hourly and daily precipitation extremes to systematically examine the changes across eastern China during the summers from 1980 to 2020. The results show that southern China is the sensitive regions with a notable large value of climatology in frequency and intensity for both of hourly and daily precipitation extremes. For the trends, the frequency of hourly precipitation extremes shows a rising trend in southern China, and intensity increased in northern China. Conversely, for daily precipitation extremes, the enhanced intensity and frequency are observed only in southeastern China. Additionally, the eastern coastal area experiences prolonged hourly rainfall with increasing persistence, while the region with an increased duration of daily precipitation is situated further south. Comparing the periods 1980–1999 and 2000–2020, precipitation extremes shift toward more intense and more frequent, with more pronounced variations at the hourly scale. Notably, northeastern China tend to be more intense and shorter‐lived hourly precipitation extremes after 1999, while south China experiences more frequent and longer‐lasting extremes. These changes are partly attributed to the increased unstable conditions, enhanced convective available potential energy and weakened convective inhibition.
Dissecting changes in evapotranspiration and its components across the Losses Plateau of China during 2001–2020
Authors: Sun Shanlei , Ma Aoge , Liu Yibo , Mu Menyuan , Liu Yi , Zhou Yang , Li Jinjian
Published: September 2024

China's Losses Plateau (LP) is one of the ecologically vulnerable and the most severe soil erosion regions. Thus, knowing spatiotemporal changes in evapotranspiration (ET) and its components (soil evaporation, E; transpiration, T; and vegetation interception evaporation, EI) and revealing the underlying mechanisms are vital for ecosystem and water resources sustainability for this region. Here, we investigate the spatiotemporal changes in ET and its components and then quantify the impacts of climate variables (i.e., precipitation, radiation, temperature, and relative humidity) and vegetation dynamics (e.g., land use/cover changes [LUCC] and changes in leaf area index [LAI]) on their annual trends, by using a process‐based terrestrial ecosystem model and a joint‐solution method with multiple sensitivity numerical experiments. Results show that over 67% of the study region experienced significant (p < 0.05) increases in annual ET, T, and EI, with regional average rises of 4.05, 3.67, and 0.74 mm·year−1, respectively. However, there are significant (p < 0.05) decreases in regional mean E of 0.38 mm·year−1, and the negative trend covers 35.8% of the study area. E, T, and EI changes dominate the annual ET trends over 11.8%, 87.3%, and 0.9% of the study area, respectively. Attribution analyses highlight the increased LAI as the critical factor governing these trends across most of the LP (>58%). At the same time, precipitation and LUCC play a more dominant role in the remaining areas. This study emphasizes the spatial heterogeneity in the drivers of changes in ET and its components and highlights the critical role of vegetation dynamics. These findings provide valuable insights for understanding the ET processes and guiding sustainable water resource management in the LP.
Evaluation of subseasonal precipitation forecasts in the Uruguay River basin
Authors: Badagian Juan , Barreiro Marcelo , Saurral Ramiro I.
Published: September 2024

The development of subseasonal forecasts has seen significant advancements, transforming our ability to predict weather patterns and climate variability on intermediate timescales ranging from 2 weeks to 2 months. Motivated by the need to enhance our understanding of subseasonal precipitation forecasts and their applicability to the hydrology forecast, this study retrospectively analysed precipitation ensemble forecasts from subseasonal prediction models in the Uruguay River basin nearby Salto Grande dam. Three models were considered: two from the S2S project (ECMWF and CNRM) and one from the SubX project (GEFS). Model forecasts were analysed on a weekly time scale using both deterministic and probabilistic approaches. Multimodel probabilistic forecasts combining the three different models were built to increase forecast skill. Individual models have a skill larger than or equal to the climatological forecast until 2 weeks in advance. Particularly, ECMWF shows better skill in both ensemble mean and probabilistic forecast. Multimodel probabilistic forecast improves the skill of the forecast throughout the year, with the skill even surpassing the climatological forecast by up to 4 weeks in advance during the summer. In addition, model skill was analysed considering the state of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on a weekly and monthly basis. On weekly time scales the ENSO state modifies model skill differently depending on the sub‐basin and season considered. However, the influence of ENSO on forecast skill is more clearly observed on monthly time scales, with largest improvement in the lower basin during springtime. The results of this work suggest that subseasonal models are a promising tool to bridge the gap between weather and climate forecast in the Uruguay River basin and have the potential to be utilized for hydrological forecasting in the study region.
Experimental study on the effect of formulation and hydrodynamic variables on non‐aqueous foams stability
Authors: Cova‐Bonillo Alexis , Patino‐Camino Rayda , Danglad‐Flores José , Linero Guillermo , Marfisi Valladares Shirley
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the factors affecting the foamability and stability of non‐aqueous foams. The researchers systematically varied the formulation (surfactant and alcohol type and concentration) and flow parameters (viscosity and gas flow rate). A custom setup with an 80 cm temperature‐controlled glass column was used for foam generation. Among the tested non‐ionic surfactants type sorbitan esters, the Span 80 (liquid W/O emulsifier and O/W emulsion stabilizer) produced the most voluminous foams. Interestingly, increasing surfactant concentration improved foamability but decreased foam stability. Similar trends were observed with the oil fraction and temperature (which affects viscosity). Higher viscosity led to more stable but less foamy structures. The study also explored the effect of different alcohols (ethanol to n‐decanol) at varying flow rates. While all alcohols generated some foam at lower flow rates (200 mL/min N2), the effect diminished at higher flow rates. Additionally, foam stability and volume decreased with longer alcohol chains. These findings provide valuable insights into the interplay between formulation, flow conditions, and the resulting stability of non‐aqueous foams.
Thermo‐Assisted Deep Eutectic Solvent Based on Dispersive Liquid‐Liquid Microextraction for Preconcentration of Phthalate Esters in Water Samples and Determination by Gas Chromatography With Flame Ionization Detection
Authors: Abdi Khosrou , Ezoddin Maryam , Novasari Venous , Lamei Navid
Published: September 2024

A thermo‐assisted deep eutectic solvent (DES) based on dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction followed by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection was developed for the analysis of five phthalate esters in different water samples. In the procedure involved, a DES composed of lidocaine, an amphiphilic amine, and oleic acid, was mixed with the sample assisted by ultrasound, and phase separation was achieved with increasing temperature. The heating of the extraction system induced the change of acid‐base properties of the DES components. Thus, the formation of microdroplets of DES in the sample was provided, and two phases were separated. The structure of the upper hydrophobic layer was characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. Also, the amount of water in the DES phase was analyzed by mass spectrometer and Karl Fischer titration. Some critical variables on the extraction yield were assessed. The proposed method achieved 1.2–1.3 and 4.1–4.3 µg/L for limits of detection and limits of quantification, respectively. The intra‐day and inter‐day percentage relative standard deviations (n = 5) were determined to be in the range of 4.2–6.2% and 5.1–7.2%, respectively. Ultimately, this method analyzed the five phthalate esters in different water samples with high recoveries.
Boric Acid Functionalized Hypercrosslinked Polymers for Selective Extraction of Trace Catecholamines and Their Metabolites in Rat Serum
Authors: Zhang Zhiyu , Yang Cheng , Zhao Di , Zhao Yuanqing , Li Lixin , Li Zhonghua , Zhang Zhenqiang , Hu Kai
Published: September 2024

Abnormal levels of catecholamine (CA) neurotransmitters and their metabolites in biological fluids can lead to various neurological disorders. Herein, a boric acid‐functionalized hypercrosslinked polymer was prepared and utilized as a sorbent for the dispersive solid‐phase extraction of CAs and their metabolites in rat serum. By combination with a high‐performance liquid chromatography‐fluorescence detector, the extraction parameters for the seven target analytes were optimized. Under the optimal extraction condition, the methodology for the quantitative analysis of CAs and their metabolites in rat serum samples was established. The limits of detection and limits of quantification were found to be in the ranges of 0.010–0.015 and 0.033–0.050 ng/mL, respectively. The results demonstrated satisfactory recoveries, with values ranging from 88.02% to 113.27%, accompanied by relative standard deviations within the range of 2.69%–9.59%. In addition, the method showed good anti‐interference ability (matrix effect ranged from 2.64% to 18.07%). The developed method was validated for the determination of CAs and their metabolites in normal and Alzheimer's disease model rats’ serum, which proved the promising application of the method for CAs neurotransmitter analysis in biological samples.
Advancements in Multiple‐Step On‐Line Preconcentration Techniques for Enhanced Sensitivity in Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Abdul Keyon Aemi Syazwani , Ng NyukTing , Breadmore Michael Charles
Published: September 2024

Multiple‐step on‐line preconcentration, a combination of at least two stacking techniques has been developed to increase the sensitivity in capillary electrophoresis (CE) for analytes in various samples. It is usually conducted sequentially, or in some cases, synergistically, where different stacking modes occur simultaneously. Multiple‐step techniques allow simultaneous preconcentration and separation of various kinds of analytes in different complex samples in a single CE run. This review aims to provide recent advances in multiple‐step on‐line preconcentration techniques in CE. We critically review technical papers published for the last 7 years up until July 2024, subsequently organized according to the combination of the main stacking techniques, that is, field amplification, large volume sample stacking, transient isotachophoresis, micelle to solvent or micelle to cyclodextrin stacking, and others. The procedures, fundamental mechanism, analytical figures of merits achieved, and their feasibility for complicated sample matrices are reviewed.
Does Total Turbinectomy Always Lead to Empty Nose Syndrome? A Computational Virtual Surgery Study
Authors: Odeh Ahmad , Wen Raymond , Wu Zhenxing , Schneller Aspen R. , Root Zachary T. , Hittle Bradley , Wiet Gregory J. , Otto Bradley A , Kelly Kathleen M , Zhao Kai
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) modeling has previously indicated that distorted nasal airflow patterns may contribute to empty nose syndrome (ENS); however, no data show that aggressive turbinate surgery always leads to ENS. We aim to use virtual surgery planning (VSP) to investigate how a total inferior turbinectomy affects airflow parameters compared with ENS patients.

Methods

We retrospectively recruited six nasal obstruction patients who underwent turbinate reduction surgery. We virtually performed total inferior turbinectomy on these patients to compare CFD modeling results to patients' actual surgical outcomes and to that of a previously collected ENS patient cohort (n = 27).

Results

Patients' actual surgery outcomes were excellent, with Nasal–Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) score (pre: 72.5 ± 13.2 vs post‐surgery: 10.8 ± 9.8, p < 0.001) and unilateral visual analog scale (VAS) scores of nasal obstruction (pre: 6 ± 2.56 vs post‐surgery: 1.2 ± 1, p < 0.001) improved and was statistically significant. The virtual turbinectomy does not create the same distorted nasal airflow patterns as seen in ENS patients, with no statistically significant difference in nasal resistance as compared with post‐actual surgery (virtual turbinectomy: 0.10 ± 0.03 Pa/mL*s; actual surgery: 0.12 ± 0.04 Pa/mL*s; ENS: 0.11 ± 0.04, p > 0.05) nor in regional wall shear force distribution, an important indicator of air/mucosa stimulation (inferior turbinate WSF%: virtual 47.3% ± 11.3% vs actual 51.5% ± 15.1%, p > 0.05); however, both are statistically significant higher than that of ENS patients (WSF: 32.2% ± 12.5%, p < 0.001), despite ENS cohort having wider inferior airway cross‐sectional area (CSA) than actual surgeries.

Conclusion

Empty nose syndrome is likely a multifactorial disease process that cannot be solely attributed to aggressive turbinate reduction surgery.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 135:562–569, 2025
Optical Genome Mapping Identifies a Second Xq27.1 Rearrangement Associated With Charcot–Marie–Tooth Neuropathy CMTX3
Authors: Rahikkala Elisa , Komulainen‐Ebrahim Jonna , Tolonen Jussi‐Pekka , Vorimo Sandra , Suo‐Palosaari Maria , Vieira Päivi , Piispala Johanna , Uusimaa Johanna , Pylkäs Katri , Mantere Tuomo
Published: September 2024

Background

X‐linked recessive type 3 Charcot–Marie–Tooth (CMTX3) is a rare subtype of childhood‐onset CMT. To date, all reported CMTX3 patients share a common founder 78 kb insertion from chromosome 8 into the Xq27.1 palindrome region.

Methods

We conducted patient–parent trio optical genome mapping (OGM) on a male patient presenting with clinically diagnosed Dejerine–Sottas disease for whom initial standard diagnostic genetic tests, including whole‐genome sequencing (WGS), yielded negative results.

Results

OGM analysis revealed a maternally inherited interchromosomal insertion from chromosome region 7q31.1 into Xq27.1. Coupled with manual reassessment of WGS data, this confirmed the molecular diagnosis of atypical CMTX3 and showed that the 122.4 kb inserted fragment contained DLD and partially LAMB1. Subsequent analyses confirmed that the rearrangement had arisen de novo in the proband's mother.

Conclusion

We report the second Xq27.1 rearrangement associated with CMTX3, providing novel clinical insights into its phenotypic and genotypic spectrum. Our findings highlight the importance of including genomic rearrangement analysis of Xq27.1 in standard diagnostic pipelines for childhood‐onset CMT. Given the overlap in polyneuropathy phenotypes resulting from insertions from chromosomes 7 and 8 into the same Xq27.1 palindrome region, the pathogenic mechanism underlying peripheral neuropathy in CMTX3 likely involves dysregulation of genes within this region.
A novel UWB in‐body printed microstrip feed monopole antenna with dual band‐stop capabilities
Authors: Abdollahvand Mousa , Zehforoosh Yashar , Marufi Banafsheh , Kaleybar P. Esmailzadeh , Dastranj Aliakbar
Published: September 2024

This paper presents an innovative and condensed blueprint for an ultra‐wideband (UWB) printed monopole antenna, aiming to augment bandwidth and achieve dual band‐stop capabilities, all while accounting for the impact of the human body model on stop bands. The proposed design showcases a square radiating patch situated on the top layer of the substrate, complemented by a ground plane etched on the underside, integrating two sets of adapted U‐shaped slots. Such a configuration delivers a broad operational fractional bandwidth that surpasses 132%. Within our design, a modified C‐shaped slot in the radiation patch creates the first band‐stop property, while a pair of modified F‐shaped slots etched in the radiation patch generates the second stop‐band property. Measuring 12 mm × 18 mm × 0.8 mm, the antenna offers a compact form factor, broad bandwidth, cost‐effectiveness, omnidirectional radiation patterns within the H‐plane and acceptable behavior for using in In‐body microwave applications.
Investigating the jamming effect of HPM with different frequencies on SDR
Authors: Zhang Mingwen , Ma Chunguang , Huang Jiawei , Song Ruilong , Luo Yong
Published: September 2024

This study examines the high‐power microwave (HPM) jamming effect on software‐defined radio (SDR). Following theoretical analysis and formula derivation of the single‐tone jamming, the HPM jamming effect is validated using an SDR platform. Jamming is relatively easily achieved when the jamming signal falls within the communication system's frequency band. For out‐of‐band signals, a higher jamming signal ratio is needed, with the receiving front‐end device's nonlinearity causing the jamming. This study highlights the susceptibility of broadband receivers to HPM jamming, demonstrating that even out‐of‐band threats cannot be disregarded in wideband receiver designs for strong signals such as HPM.