bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Spatial Intelligence-based Metalinguistic Written Corrective Feedback on EFL Learners’ Development in Writing
Authors: Andarab Mehdi Solhi
Published: July 2019

Correcting and providing feedback to the written work of the learners has always been one of the hotly-debatedissues over the last decades. While a group of scholars argue in favor of the effectiveness of the written corrective(CF) feedback, others question the utility and usefulness of the CF on writing of the learners. Even there seem to befewer consensuses on the typology of the CF. Metalinguistic written corrective feedback (CF) (e.g., briefgrammatical descriptions and error codes) is a type of written feedback, through which teacher gives metalinguisticclue to the nature of the errors (Ellis, 2009). In this study, a different type of metalinguistic feedback, conceptualizedas spatial intelligence-based (SIB) metalinguistic written CF_ using the colorful stationery to write, highlight, locate,or underline the linguistic errors of the learners while giving feedback_ was used while providing feedback to thelearner’s work. In order to investigate the effectiveness of SIB metalinguistic written CF on English as a foreignlanguage (EFL) learners’ development in writing, 47 intermediate learners were randomly assigned into two groups.The learners in the first group received SIB metalinguistic written CF for their errors in writing, while the ones in thesecond group only obtained metalinguistic written CF for their errors. An independent samples t-test applied on thescores achieved from a posttest showed a significant difference in scores of the first group and that of theexperimental group. Results indicated that the accuracy (mechanics) and style of the writing of the first group ofstudents who received SIB correction for their linguistic errors exceled that of the second group students whosereceived written correction was only metalinguistic. However, there was no significant difference between thegroups in the content, and organization of their writing.
Contamination Control in a Portable-Materials With Photochemical Process
Authors: Oliveira Bruno Pereira de , Blanco Kate Cristina , Bagnato Vanderlei Salvador
Published: July 2019

Contamination control area refers to the control / eliminated of the activities of microorganisms present in the materials or process. This technique to eliminated is major importance in this study are those that cause food spoilage and are infectious. The principal areas of interest in this study are health, aerospace and food industry because the materials utilized in the process charging the contamination; thus, to control these microorganisms, moist heat and chemicals are used. However, technological development has led to a problem with some portable-materials, as these techniques are not suitable in specific cases in which there may be material damage and health safety problems. To address these problems, the present research identified a new constructive experimental device that has a triple deck (UV, Ozone, and UV-Ozone). This configuration can sterilize material with photochemical process cannot be damaged. After this protocol was generated, flat plate materials were contaminated with E. coli and 3 different configuration protocols were applied. The results show a microbial reduction of approximately 99.999% after an exposure of 30 – 40 min with ozone/UV, 30 min with UV-only, and 20 min with ozone. This device has the ability to sterilize the materials.
E-mail recovery from websites using Gravatar
Authors: Rodwald Przemysław
Published: July 2019

Although the Internet has not been created for anonymity, many users posting comments on blogs hope that they will remain anonymous. The article presents an attack on revealing the e-mail addresses of users posting comments on the sample website using Gravatar. This attack aims to make readers aware of the fact that by posting comments on sites using Gravatara services, we are exposed to the disclosure of our e-mail addresses and sometimes even of our real identity.
Keywords: Gravatar, deanonimization, e-mail, MD5 hash function
Application of graphene materials in tribology — analysis of state of the problem and the preliminary research
Authors: Dąbrowski Igor Jakub , Nogas Patrycja Magdalena , Kałdoński Tadeusz , Nasiłowska Barbara , Djas Małgorzata
Published: July 2019

Present publication describes one of the most interesting materials discovered in recent years, which is graphene. This paperwork contains information about graphene’s structure, properties, applications and methods of synthesis. The special attention has been given to tribological applications of graphene structures, including the usage of the graphene itself in the composite materials, protective integuments, and additives to lubricants (oils, greases). This publication was based on the information and research results published in the international articles and preliminary researches realized at the Military University of Technology as well. The research results concern the changes of basic lubricants’ parameters, which contain different amount of graphene oxide (or comparatively of hexagonal boron nitride). The results obtained during the tests indicate that graphene oxide could improve lubricating abilities of oils and greases.
Keywords: tribology, lubricants, graphene, graphene oxide.
Bypassing traditional sports media? Why and how professional volleyball players use social networking sites
Authors: Nölleke Daniel , Birkner Thomas
Published: July 2019

In recent years, social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have become major players in sports communication. In this study, we focus on the motives for athletes’ use of social media. Applying a mediatization approach, we conceptualize social media as a possible means to bypass traditional (sports) journalism. For sport disciplines that receive minor media coverage, social media provides the opportunity to increase public visibility. Consequently, our study focuses on indoor volleyball as such a marginalized sport. The online survey results from all players of the 24 either all-male or all-female teams of the German first volleyball leagues are combined with a quantitative content analysis of the players’ social media activities. Results indicate that athletes evaluate traditional media coverage of their sport as negative and social media as extremely influential. Still, their postings on social media seem neither to aim at bypassing sports journalism nor to address sports fans directly. Instead, they use social media primarily to connect with friends and family. In conclusion, volleyball players have so far not embraced social media as a tool to promote themselves as sportspersons. At the moment, they do not exploit social media’s potential as channels for professional sports communication.
Informationssuche als Beziehungstat. Der Zusammenhang zwischen relationalen Faktoren und Motiven der stellvertretenden Suche nach Gesundheitsinformationen
Authors: Reifegerste Doreen , Bachl Marko
Published: July 2019

Die Suche nach Gesundheitsinformationen für andere, d. h. die stellvertretende Suche, ist eine häufig praktizierte Form der Internetnutzung und kann wesentlichen Einfluss auf den Gesundheitszustand einer Patientin oder eines Patienten haben. Obwohl bereits verschiedene Faktoren wie demografische Merkmale, Gesundheitskompetenz und soziale Variablen als Einflussfaktoren für die stellvertretende Gesundheitsinformationssuche auf der Basis von Sekundäranalysen diskutiert werden, liegt bislang kaum Primärforschung über die Motive und relationale Einflussfaktoren für dieses Verhalten vor. Mittels einer Online-Befragung im SoSci Panel (N = 589 Teilnehmer, n = 381 Personen mit stellvertretender Suche) kann gezeigt werden, dass die stellvertretende Suche nach Gesundheitsinformationen nicht nur von individuellen Eigenschaften des Suchenden, sondern auch von relationalen Faktoren, wie der Beziehungsnähe zum Alteri (d. h. dem Patienten) geprägt ist. Die Motive zur stellvertretenden Suche unterscheiden sich in Abhängigkeit von der Beziehungsart und stellen vorrangig alteriorientierte Formen der Unterstützung dar, können aber auch egoorientiert sein. Unsere Ergebnisse legen nahe, dass relationale Faktoren und Charakteristika des Alteri relevante Variablen der stellvertretenden Informationssuche darstellen. Sie sollten daher neben Motiven der sozialen Unterstützung in Theorien des Informationsverhaltens berücksichtigt werden. Implikationen für die Adressierung und Informationsweitergabe an nahestehende Personen und die weitere Forschung werden diskutiert.
Die Sachmängelhaftung nach neuem Schuldrecht am Beispiel des Kunstkaufs
Authors: Olbrich Sabine
Published: July 2019

This book provides jurists interested in the right of purchase of art with a thorough investigation of art warranty under the German law of obligations, which fully takes account of the relevant jurisprudence and research literature in this regard. Art warranty has always been based more on case law than on legal statutes, with German courts frequently focusing on the desired result rather than on accurate dogmatic foundations. Based on the reform of the German law of obligations, this thesis depicts the problems that have been solved in this regard, unfolds remaining issues and offers valuable solutions. With legal regulations now built upon the sale of unascertained goods instead of determinate obligations, this study illustrates the impact of this model change using the example of purchasing works of art—outlining all the relevant court rulings from ‘Beltracchi’ and ‘Buddha sculptures’ to ‘Banksy’.
Complex approach to monitoring athletes in the scope of overtraining prevention
Authors: Bernaciková Martina , Novotný Jan , Burešová Iva , Žákovská Alena
Published: July 2019

The article introduces the issue of monitoring intensively training athletes who wish to avoid overtraining and want their training to be as effective as possible. The current definitions of overreaching and overtraining are addressed, together with the summary of causes, development and prevention of such conditions. The focus of the article is on the overview of relevant diagnostic methods including the latest non-invasive biochemical methods. The complex approach to the selection of psychological and physiological methods to establish the degree of the internal load of athletes is emphasised. A three-degree concept of athlete monitoring according to the demandingness and periodicity of diagnostic methods usage is presented.
Cultura, educação e filosofia na perspectiva Nietzschiana
Authors: Marques Alexsandro Da Silva
Published: July 2019

O presente texto se propõe apresentar algumas reflexões acerca dos escritos nietzschianos “Sobre o futuro de nossos estabelecimentos de ensino” (1871) e “Schopenhauer Educador” (1874). As reflexões sobre educação e cultura partem das experiências do filósofo quando ensinava na universidade de Basiléia/Suíça. Segundo este filósofo, para existir cultura é preciso um projeto educativo, pois não haverá educação sem uma cultura que lhe sirva de apoio. Há uma exacerbada valorização de um tipo de saber, busca-se o acumulado em excesso e sem relação com os contextos culturais e sociais dos indivíduos. Nas críticas nietzschianas percebemos uma luta por uma concepção de educação pautada nas experiências vivas de cada indivíduo, pois a vida é percebida como propulsora de diferentes formas de pensar e conhecer. Assim, podemos extrair em Nietzsche ferramentas contraria a uma cultura de massa destinada a padronização, alienação e competitividade e o ensino de filosofia como uma aliada na denúncia e crítica de nossa sociedade e de seu povo.
Encontrar filosofia(s) e infância(s)
Authors: Oliveira Paula Ramos de , Badia Denis Domeneghetti , Fávari Cesira Elisa , Sônego Ediléia Pereira
Published: July 2019

Este texto busca pensar algumas possibilidades de unir “filosofia” e “infância” em dois momentos: o primeiro é teórico e o segundo traz propostas de trabalho em torno da temática. Na parte teórica, apresentamos a proposta de Matthew Lipman que tornou possível levar a filosofia às crianças. Na sequência apontamos as contribuições de outras áreas para pensar a infância: em P. Ariès vemos que o conceito de infância nem sempre existiu; Postman nos indica que vivemos o processo de adultização das crianças e o de infantilização dos adultos; Clarice Cohn mostra, com seu estudo dos Xikrin, que o conceito de infância pode não existir em certas sociedades; Walter Kohan pensa o tempo como intensidade (aión) e não somente como cronologia (chrónos), nos remetendo a um novo olhar para a infância; Larrosa trata da alteridade da infância, e da necessidade de entendê-la como um enigma. Por fim, olhamos para a criança como aquela que filosofa e que olha para a filosofia. Na parte dois apresentamos três atividades (carta, fotos, poesia, pintura, e fragmentos de Heráclito) propostas como experiências que tornem possível problematizar as relações entre filosofia e infância.
Pre-Press The Patient as a Reader
Authors: Bernhardsson Katarina
Published: July 2019

Illness narratives can be said to reclaim the voice of the patient, and while they draw much of their strength from a position of experience and loss, they are also highly mediated and constructed narratives. This article studies, how these textual self-representations are formed in relation to intertexts, and how the authors explicitly use other literary texts and enter into a dialogue with them.

Two pathographies are studied, Anders Paulrud’s Fjärilen i min hjärna (“The Butterfly in my Brain”, 2008) and Agneta Klingspor’s Stängt pga hälsosjäl (“Closed due to health reasons”, 2010, and their specific strategies in incorporating other literary texts: Paulrud through assemblage and community, and Klingspor through resistance and critique, especially of narratives the author feels she is supposed to appreciate. In the end, both authors seem to share a view about literature as potentially helpful and meaningful in conveying experiences and even point to a healing potential in narratives and literature.
La contratación pública responsable. Diseño de indicadores de medición
Authors: Gutiérrez Ponce Herenia , Nevado Gil María Teresa , Pache Durán María
Published: July 2019

Actualmente, la UE, reconoce la importancia de la contratación pública como uno de los instrumentos que deben utilizarse para lograr un crecimiento inteligente, sostenible e integrador. En España, la Ley 9/2017, de 8 de noviembre, de Contratos del Sector Público, por la que se transponen al ordenamiento jurídico español las Directivas del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo 2014/23/UE y 2014/24/UE, recientemente aprobada, plantea incorporar de forma transversal criterios socialmente responsables a la hora de preparar y ejecutar los contratos públicos, de tal forma que obliga a las empresas licitadoras a cumplir requisitos concretos sobre igualdad de género, condiciones laborales justas, consumo de comercio justo o eficiencia energética. Ante esta situación, las administraciones públicas han comenzado a elaborar guías y aprobar instrucciones para la implementación de cláusulas socialmente responsables en sus contrataciones. Sin embargo, a pesar de su importancia, no existe un instrumento de medida específico que evalúe este tipo de conductas. En este contexto, planteamos esta investigación con el objetivo de diseñar indicadores éticos y sostenibles, consistentes con la nueva Ley, que permitan medir y comparar relativamente los comportamientos responsables de las administraciones en relación a sus contrataciones públicas. Para lograr nuestro objetivo, planteamos un estudio exploratorio sobre la información disponible en las páginas web de los municipios españoles. Este instrumento podrá favorecer el enfoque de prácticas y políticas responsables en atención a las carencias observadas, contribuyendo a obtener no solo beneficios ambientales, sino también económicos y sociales, tanto para la Administración como para el sector privado y la sociedad.
Transparencia y 'fake news': antagonismos en los 'social media' en campaña electoral
Authors: Martínez Martínez Silvia
Published: July 2019

Para garantizar principios como la libertad, la igualdad, la proporcionalidad o el pluralismo, la propaganda política y el uso de los medios de comunicación en campaña electoral se encuentran regulados en nuestro sistema democrático. Sin embargo, en un entorno cambiante como es el que caracteriza la comunicación digital, surgen situaciones y prácticas nuevas en un contexto globalizado en el que algunos límites se desdibujan siendo difíciles de acotar e incluso controlar. Así, mientras diferentes plataformas e iniciativas abogan por fomentar una mayor transparencia, la difusión de fake news que afectan a la política cobra protagonismo.
Imaginando el futuro de la televisión
Authors: Clares Gavilán Judith
Published: July 2019

Este mes de mayo he tenido la oportunidad de atender a distintos grupos de estudiantes que estaban realizando su Trabajo Fin de Grado sobre los cambios que está viviendo el sector televisivo con la irrupción de las plataformas de vídeo bajo demanda (VOD) como Netflix, HBO, Amazon, Disney+, Apple, Filmin, (…).
Unicornios
Authors: Creus Amalia
Published: July 2019

Hace dos meses comparto mi casa con unos cuantos unicornios. Ante mi asombro se han instalado cómodamente en los rincones más insospechados de la casa. Revolotean por el patio, se esconden en los armarios y en las cajas de galletas, asoman sus hocicos entre las flores del jardín y los cojines de la habitación de Sara. Es ella, Sara, quien me explica, con la irreverente sabiduría de una niña de cuatro años, que los unicornios son animales mágicos, que vuelan y que viven en el bosque, donde hablan un idioma raro y se alimentan de flores y helados de color rosa.
Visualización dinámica de datos y periodismo digital
Authors: Cavaller Víctor , García Ricardo , Ruiz Daniel , Fankhauser Nadia
Published: July 2019

La visualización dinámica de datos y procesos desempeña un papel fundamental en múltiples ámbitos profesionales y académicos ya que permite no sólo observar, paso a paso en el tiempo la evolución de un sistema o fenómeno en estudio, sino obtener diferentes visualizaciones de los mismos datos, representar mediante animación un fenómeno, posibilitar la interacción de la visualización con el usuario, la simulación de sistemas, etc.
Osteokines and the vasculature: a review of thein vitroeffects of osteocalcin, fibroblast growth factor-23 and lipocalin-2
Authors: Millar Sophie A. , Anderson Susan I. , O’Sullivan Saoirse E.
Published: July 2019

Bone-derived factors that demonstrate extra-skeletal functions, also termed osteokines, are fast becoming a highly interesting and focused area of cross-disciplinary endocrine research. Osteocalcin (OCN), fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23) and lipocalin-2 (LCN-2), produced in bone, comprise an important endocrine system that is finely tuned with other organs to ensure homeostatic balance and health. This review aims to evaluatein vitroevidence of the direct involvement of these proteins in vascular cells and whether any causal roles in cardiovascular disease or inflammation can be supported. PubMed, Medline, Embase and Google Scholar were searched for relevant research articles investigating the exogenous addition of OCN, FGF23 or LCN-2 to vascular smooth muscle or endothelial cells. Overall, these osteokines are directly vasoactive across a range of human and animal vascular cells. Both OCN and FGF23 have anti-apoptotic properties and increase eNOS phosphorylation and nitric oxide production through Akt signalling in human endothelial cells. OCN improves intracellular insulin signalling and demonstrates protective effects against endoplasmic reticulum stress in murine and human endothelial cells. OCN may be involved in calcification but further research is warranted, while there is no evidence for a pro-calcific effect of FGF23in vitro. FGF23 and LCN-2 increase proliferation in some cell types and increase and decrease reactive oxygen species generation, respectively. LCN-2 also has anti-apoptotic effects but may increase endoplasmic reticulum stress as well as have pro-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic properties in human vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells. There is no strong evidence to support a pathological role of OCN or FGF23 in the vasculature based on these findings. In contrast, they may in fact support normal endothelial functioning, vascular homeostasis and vasodilation. No studies examined whether OCN or FGF23 may have a role in vascular inflammation. Limited studies with LCN-2 indicate a pro-inflammatory and possible pathological role in the vasculature but further mechanistic data is required. Overall, these osteokines pose intriguing functions which should be investigated comprehensively to assess their relevance to cardiovascular disease and health in humans.
Determination of Optimum Crop Mix Using Linear (LP) Programming among Small Holder Farmers in Agricultural Zone Four of Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Phillip D. O. A. , Peter E. , Girei A. A.
Published: July 2019

Linear programming was applied to farm data collected from 120 smallholder farmers in 2017/18 cropping season in agricultural zone four (4) of Adamawa state, Nigeria for the purpose of identifying optimal crop mix to maximize revenue. A total of twenty (20) cropping enterprises were identified in the existing cropping pattern, fifteen (15) mixed and five (5) sole cropping enterprises. Popular enterprises identified included four mixed and two sole cropping enterprises and all the six enterprises showed positive net return. The result of the linear programming analysis however, showed that the optimal farm plan at observed maximum resource levels admitted only groundnut and sorghum in the final plan to be produced at 2 hectares with an associated total gross margin of N478, 380.00. In the sensitivity analysis identified with the observed maximum resource level, land was the only binding resource in the final plan. The optimal farm plan at observed average resource levels showed that three enterprises; groundnut/sorghum, maize/sorghum and sole maize were admitted in the final plan under 0.45ha, 0.21ha and 0.17ha, respectively. The associated total gross margin was N153, 003.99. In the sensitivity analysis associated with the observed average resources, only NPK, SSP, Laraforce were binding resources. The study recommended that the optimum enterprises and resources combination obtained in the Linear Programming output should be extended to the farmers to enhance their profit level, beside; farmers should be encouraged through adequate support and promotions to improve the production techniques of these recommended enterprises.
Anti-cytoskeleton Immunoscreening of Trypanosoma brucei Expression Library Reveals Novel Immunogenic Conserved Putative Proteins
Authors: Magyezi Begumisa Godfrey , Uthman Okalang , Kenneth Musisi , Mwijjwiga Wampadde Eddie , George Lubega W.
Published: July 2019

Background: The overall shape of the trypanosome is defined by an internal cytoskeleton consisting of a network of microtubules that are cross linked both to each other and the inner face of the plasma membrane. However, the total compliment and identity of the trypanosome cytoskeleton proteins are not yet fully determined despite the fact that some of them may be good targets for diagnostics, drugs and/or vaccines discovery.

Methods: In this study, rabbit anti-Trypanosoma brucei detergent insoluble cytoskeleton sera were produced in vivo and used to probe a T. brucei expression library. The picked plaques were made clonal by a series of library screening followed by PCR amplification, cDNA sequencing and identification of the proteins coded by these sequences using BLAST.

Results: The previously well-known cytoskeleton proteins (paraflagella rod protein and histone H2B), putative cytoskeleton proteins (Dynein light chain and nucleoporin), conserved hypothetical protein (Tb10.61.2430) and novel cytoskeleton protein coding cDNA sequences (not in the sequenced and published T. brucei genome) were identified in this study.

Conclusion: This approach is therefore, useable in the search for novel proteins whose utility in the design and development of diagnostics, drugs and/or vaccines can further be studied.
Breast Cancer Awareness, Knowledge and Beliefs among Libyan Women
Authors: El-Hamadi Meluda R. , Gusbi Mukhtar , Aisa Mukhtar , Elkout Hajer
Published: July 2019

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cancer of women. The high mortality in developing countries is associated with late detection, and lack of knowledge and adequate screening programmes.

Aims: To determine breast cancer awareness, knowledge and beliefs among Libyan women.

Study Design: A cross-sectional descriptive study.

Place and Duration of Study: Between September and October 2016 among a sample of adult women in western Libya.

Methods: 1091 woman aged between years were asked to fill a validated questionnaire to investigate their knowledge about the risk factors as well as their awareness and screening behaviours of BC.

Results: The majority of women who participated in the study were aware of BC early warning signs and symptoms. Over 90% of the women were able to list at least one symptom of breast cancer correctly. The most frequent warning sign identified was breast lump (91.0%), followed by discharge from the nipples (80.6%). Also, 565 (52.7%) of those surveyed were aware that increasing age was associated with a higher incidence of breast cancer and 747 (68.3%) of the respondents identified positive family history as a risk factor. Moreover, 62% know how to perform self-examination (BSE), and only 59% ever performed BSE. The majority (92%) would seek medical advice if they discovered a mass in the breast whereas, about half of those (59%) would consult a male doctor.

Conclusions: Women who participated in this study were fairly informed about BC risks and warning signs; the results appear to reflect growing awareness of women regarding BC screening methods. Health education message should be presented and delivered in a culturally-sensitive manner and tailored to provide simple and clear information and avoid false beliefs and misconceptions about the disease, its screening methods and management options.
Assessing population‐based to personalized planning strategies for head and neck adaptive radiotherapy
Authors: Visak Justin , Liao Chien‐Yi , Zhong Xinran , Wang Biling , Domal Sean , Wang Hui‐Ju , Maniscalco Austen , Pompos Arnold , Nyguen Dan , Parsons David , Godley Andrew , Lu Weiguo , Jiang Steve , Moon Dominic , Sher David , Lin Mu‐Han
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Optimal head‐and‐neck cancer (HNC) treatment planning requires accurate and feasible planning goals to meet dosimetric constraints and generate robust online adaptive treatment plans. A new x‐ray‐based adaptive radiotherapy (ART) treatment planning system (TPS) version 2.0 emulator includes novel methods to drive the planning process including the revised intelligent optimization engine algorithm (IOE2). HNC is among the most challenging and complex sites and heavily depends on planner skill and experience to successfully generate a reference plan. Therefore, we evaluate the new TPS performance via conventionally accepted planning strategies with/without artificial intelligence (AI) and knowledge‐based planning (KBP).

Methods

Our institution has a pre‐clinical release of the Varian Ethos2.0 TPS emulator which includes several changes that may affect current planning strategies. Twenty definitive and post‐operative HNC patients were retrospectively selected with a two or three‐level simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) dosing scheme. Patients were replanned in the emulator using population‐based, KBP‐guided with/without human intervention and AI‐guided planning goals. These planning strategies were compared both dosimetrically and for plan deliverability.

Results

All strategies generally demonstrated acceptable plan quality with KBP‐ and AI‐guided goals offering enhanced dosimetric sparing in organs‐at‐risk (OAR). The average contralateral parotid gland mean dose was 20.0 ± 6.1 Gy (p < 0.001) for population‐based and 15.0 ± 6.1 Gy (p = n.s.) for KBP‐with human intervention versus 15.1 ± 7.4 Gy for clinical plans. Target coverage, minimum dose, and plan hotspot were acceptable in all cases. KBP‐enabled strategy demonstrated higher modulation and faster optimization time than both population‐based and AI‐guided strategies.

Conclusion

Simply entering population, automatic KBP‐enabled or AI‐generated planning goals into the new Ethos2.0 TPS produced dosimetrically compliant plans, with AI‐guided goals demonstrating the most OAR sparing. Several of these approaches are easy to translate to other treatment sites and will help lower the barrier to entry for x‐ray‐based online‐ART.
Low dose threshold for measuring cardiac functional metrics using four‐dimensional CT with deep learning
Authors: Wu Pengwei , Kim Kyle , Severance Lauren , McVeigh Elliot , Pack Jed Douglas
Published: December 2024

Background

Four‐dimensional CT is increasingly used for functional cardiac imaging, including prognosis for conditions such as heart failure and post myocardial infarction. However, radiation dose from an acquisition spanning the full cardiac cycle remains a concern. This work investigates the possibility of dose reduction in 4DCT using deep learning (DL)‐based segmentation techniques as an objective observer.

Methods

A 3D residual U‐Net was developed for segmentation of left ventricle (LV) myocardium and blood pool. Two networks were trained: Standard DL (trained with only standard‐dose [SD] data) and Noise‐Robust DL (additionally trained with low‐dose data). The primary goal of the proposed DL methods is to serve as an unbiased and consistent observer for functional analysis performance. Functional cardiac metrics including ejection fraction (EF), global longitudinal strain (GLS), circumferential strain (CS), and wall thickness (WT), were measured for an external test set of 250 Cardiac CT volumes reconstructed at five different dose levels.

Results

Functional metrics obtained from DL segmentations of standard dose images matched well with those from expert manual analysis. Utilizing Standard‐DL, absolute difference between DL‐derived metrics obtained with standard dose data and 100 mA (corresponding to ∼76 ± 13% dose reduction) data was less than 0.8 ± 1.0% for EF, GLS, and CS, and 5.6 ± 6.7% for Average WT. Performance variation of Noise‐Robust DL remained acceptable at even 50 mA.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that on average radiation dose can be reduced by a factor of 5 while introducing minimal changes to global functional metrics (especially EF, GLS, and CS). The robustness to reduced image quality can be further boosted by using emulated low‐dose data in the DL training set.
Verification of daily dose recalculation accuracy for an adaptive radiation therapy monitoring tool in helical tomotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Maneepan Yawitta , Watcharawipha Anirut , Chitapanarux Imjai , Wanwilairat Somsak , Nobnop Wannapha
Published: December 2024

Purpose

PreciseART, an adaptive radiation therapy (ART) software for helical tomotherapy (HT), was integrated into the Precision treatment planning system (Accuray, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA). It supports automatic monitoring of dose variations to both the target and organs at risk (OARs) throughout the treatment course. This study aims to verify the accuracy of PreciseART's automatic dose recalculation and assess the effectiveness of its notification function.

Methods

The Radixact X9's kVCT image‐guided system (ClearRT) was used to acquire daily images for dose recalculations. We assessed the accuracy of PreciseART's automatic dose recalculation by comparing it with the treatment planning system (TPS) recalculation for the PTV70, spinal cord, and bilateral parotid glands. We also evaluated the efficacy of its notification function by comparing each dose metric for each notification color to TPS recalculation, assessing its role as a trigger tool.

Results

In the phantom study, dosimetric analysis indicated no statistically significant differences between TPS and PreciseART recalculations (p > 0.05), with dose variations under 1.5%. Similarly, in the patient study (n = 10), no significant dosimetric discrepancies were found (p > 0.05), with a maximum variation of 2.3%. The notification system performed effectively, providing accurate notifications in accordance with predefined dose criteria.

Conclusions

PreciseART's daily dose recalculation demonstrated good agreement with TPS recalculation, and its notification function is effective for identifying dose threshold compliance, supporting its use in clinical ART.
Investigating ITM2B‐associated ataxia in a Taiwanese cerebellar ataxia cohort
Authors: Fang Shih‐Yu , Hsiao Cheng‐Tsung , Jih Kang‐Yang , Tsai Yu‐Sheun , Lai Kuan‐Lin , Chou Cheng‐Ta , Liao Yi‐Chu , Lee Yi‐Chung
Published: December 2024

Objective

The genetic causes of a significant number of patients with cerebellar ataxia remain unsolved. Variations in the ITM2B gene, typically linked to dominantly inherited dementia, can sometimes present with cerebellar ataxia as an early symptom. This study aims to investigate the role of ITM2B variations in a Taiwanese cohort with unsolved cerebellar ataxia.

Methods

Genetic analysis of ITM2B was performed in 212 unrelated Taiwanese patients with unsolved cerebellar ataxia. Eight short tandem repeat markers flanking ITM2B were genotyped to analyze the associated haplotype. Affected carriers underwent comprehensive clinical evaluations.

Results

A heterozygous ITM2B variant, c.800G>T (p.(Ter267LeuextTer11)), was identified in three patients. Haplotype analysis demonstrated a shared haplotype linked to this variant in the three families, suggesting a founder effect. The three probands and additional three affected relatives presented with cerebellar ataxia and unsteady gait with an average onset age of 43.2 years. Most participants had no cognitive impairment at symptom onset but experienced memory decline, oculomotor disturbances, lower limb spasticity, and extensor plantar responses within 2–5 years. Magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy revealed progressive extension of white matter hyperintensity over periventricular and subcortical regions, subtle hippocampal atrophy, preserved cerebellar volumes, and decreased N‐acetylaspartate/creatine ratio over the vermis.

Interpretation

ITM2B mutations accounted for 1.4% of cerebellar ataxia cases in the Taiwanese cohort, with patients carrying ITM2B c.800G>T descending from a common ancestor. This study underscores the importance of considering ITM2B variations as a potential cause of cerebellar ataxia, even in the absence of dementia at the initial presentation.
Producing battery grade lithium carbonate from salt‐lake brine via bipolar membrane carbon dioxide mineralization
Authors: Shan Weixiang , Cao Guangzhong , Gu Tianle , Liu Xiao , Sun Dongyue , Fu Rongqiang , Liu Zhaoming , Jiang Chenxiao , Xu Tongwen
Published: December 2024

Producing battery‐grade Li2CO3 product from salt‐lake brine is a critical issue for meeting the growing demand of the lithium‐ion battery industry. Traditional procedures include Na2CO3 precipitation and multi‐stage crystallization for refining, resulting in significant lithium loss and undesired lithium product quality. Herein, we first proposed a bipolar membrane CO2 mineralization technique for directly producing battery‐grade Li2CO3 from lake brine that enriches alkali metals (Na+, K+). Results indicate the process can successfully separate Li+ from contaminants and present a selectivity above 900 for Li+ through the CO2 mineralization reaction, while prevent electro‐oxidating Cl− to Cl2 pollution. The obtained Li2CO3 production purity is above 99.75% with lithium recovery rate of 86%. Carbon dioxide was captured in the form of Li2CO3, with a capacity of 595 g of CO2 for1 kg of Li2CO3. The technology provides a sustainable and cost‐effective path for producing battery‐grade Li2CO3 from the lake brine.
Tau pathway‐based gene analysis on PET identifies CLU and FYN in a Korean cohort
Authors: Yi Dahyun , Byun Min Soo , Park Jong‐Ho , Kim Jong‐Won , Jung Gijung , Ahn Hyejin , Lee Jun‐Young , Lee Yun‐Sang , Kim Yu Kyeong , Kang Koung Mi , Sohn Chul‐Ho , Liu Shiwei , Huang Yen‐Ning , Saykin Andrew J. , Lee Dong Young , Nho Kwangsik ,   for the KBASE research group
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION

The influence of genetic variation on tau protein aggregation, a key factor in Alzheimer's disease (AD), remains not fully understood. We aimed to identify novel genes associated with brain tau deposition using pathway‐based candidate gene association analysis in a Korean cohort.

METHODS

We analyzed data for 146 older adults from the well‐established Korean AD continuum cohort (Korean Brain Aging Study for the Early Diagnosis and Prediction of Alzheimer's Disease; KBASE). Fifteen candidate genes related to both tau pathways and AD were selected. Association analyses were performed using PLINK: A tool set for whole‐genome association and population‐based linkage analyses (PLINK) on tau deposition measured by 18F‐AV‐1451 positron emission tomography (PET) scans, with additional voxel‐wise analysis conducted using Statistical Parametric Mapping 12 (SPM12).

RESULTS

CLU and FYN were significantly associated with tau deposition, with the most significant single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) being rs149413552 and rs57650567, respectively. These SNPs were linked to increased tau across key brain regions and showed additive effects with apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4.

DISCUSSION

CLU and FYN may play specific roles in tau pathophysiology, offering potential targets for biomarkers and therapies.

Highlights

Gene‐based analysis identified CLU and FYN as associated with tau deposition on positron emission tomography (PET).

CLU rs149413552 and FYN rs57650567 were associated with brain tau deposition.

rs149413552 and rs57650567 were associated with structural brain atrophy.

CLU rs149413552 was associated with immediate verbal memory.

CLU and FYN may play specific roles in tau pathophysiology.
CO‐Tolerant Heterogeneous Ruthenium Catalysts for Efficient Formic Acid Dehydrogenation
Authors: Xue Guangxin , Jiao Yueyue , Li Xiang , Lin Tian , Yang Caoyu , Chen Sihan , Chen Zupeng , Qi Haifeng , Bartling Stephan , Jiao Haijun , Junge Henrik , Beller Matthias
Published: December 2024

The development of improved and less costly catalysts for dehydrogenation of formic acid (HCOOH) is of general interest for renewable energy technologies involving hydrogen storage and release. Theoretical calculations reveal that ruthenium (Ru) nanoparticles supported on nitrogen‐doped carbon should be appropriate catalysts for such transformations. It is predicted that nitrogen doping significantly decreases the formation of CO, but at the same time increases CO tolerance of the catalysts. To prove these hypotheses heterogeneous ruthenium catalysts supported on porous nitrogen‐doped carbon (Rux/CN) with hierarchical structure were synthesized using carbon nitride (C3N4) as template and phenanthroline (Phen) as ligand. Experimental tests in HCOOH dehydrogenation revealed that the optimal catalyst Ru7/CN exhibited good thermal stability at 140 °C and a high turnover frequency (TOF >1300 h−1), which is more than one order of magnitude higher than that of the commercial Ru5/C catalyst.
Transition Metal as Template: Reversing the Synthesis Logic in the Preparation of Pincer Complexes
Authors: Contreras Jovanny J. , Lee Samuel R. , Nguyen Vinh T. , Suarez Thomas , Leong Derek W. , Bhuvanesh Nattamai , Johnson Miles W. , Ozerov Oleg V.
Published: December 2024

The conventional synthetic approach to transition metal pincer complexes calls for the preparation of the tridentate pincer (pro)ligand first, with subsequent introduction of the transition metal center as the last step. This work demonstrates that the alternative synthetic logic, where the central main group element is introduced last, can be applicable to a number of PEP pincer complexes (E=B, Al, Si, P) derived from phosphinophenols and phosphinopyrroles. This approach obviates the need to isolate well‐behaved propincer precursors, and instead relies on the formation of phosphine‐metal adducts first, whose nature determines the stoichiometry of the needed main group reagent to complete the synthesis.
Suppressing Exciton–Vibration Coupling via Intramolecular Noncovalent Interactions for Low‐Energy‐Loss Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Gu Xiaobin , Wei Yanan , Zeng Rui , Lv Jikai , Hou Yuqi , Yu Na , Tan Senke , Wang Zaiyu , Li Congqi , Tang Zheng , Peng Qian , Liu Feng , Cai Yunhao , Zhang Xin , Huang Hui
Published: December 2024

Minimizing energy loss is crucial for breaking through the efficiency bottleneck of organic solar cells (OSCs). The main mechanism of energy loss can be attributed to non‐radiative recombination energy loss (ΔEnr) that occurs due to exciton–vibration coupling. To tackle this challenge, tuning intramolecular noncovalent interactions is strategically utilized to tailor novel fused ring electron acceptors (FREAs). Upon comprehensive analysis of both theoretical and experimental results, this approach can effectively enhance molecular rigidity, suppress structural relaxation, reduce exciton reorganization energy, and weakens exciton–vibration coupling strength. Consequently, the binary OSC device based on Y‐SeSe, which features dual strong intramolecular Se ⋅ ⋅ ⋅ O noncovalent interactions, achieves an outstanding power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.49 %, accompanied by an extremely small ΔEnr of 0.184 eV, much lower than those of Y‐SS and Y‐SSe based devices with weaker intramolecular noncovalent interactions. These achievements not only set an efficiency record for selenium‐containing OSCs, but also mark the lowest reported ΔEnr value among high‐performance binary devices. Furthermore, the ternary blend device showcases a remarkable PCE of 20.51 %, one of the highest PCEs for single‐junction OSCs. This work demonstrates the effectiveness of intramolecular noncovalent interactions in suppressing exciton–vibration coupling, thereby achieving low‐energy‐loss and high‐efficiency OSCs.
Probing the Hidden Photoisomerization of a Symmetric Phosphaalkene Switch
Authors: Deka Rajesh , Steen Jorn D. , Hilbers Michiel F. , Roeterdink Wim G. , Iagatti Alessandro , Xiong Ruisheng , Buma Wybren Jan , Di Donato Mariangela , Orthaber Andreas , Crespi Stefano
Published: December 2024

In this study, we present the synthesis and analysis of a novel, air‐stable, and solvent‐resistant phosphaalkene switch. Using this symmetric switch, we have demonstrated degenerate photoisomerization experimentally for the first time. With a combination of photochemical‐exchange NMR spectroscopy, ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy, and quantum chemical calculations, we elucidate the isomerization mechanism of this symmetric phosphaalkene, comparing it to two other known molecules belonging to this class. Our findings highlight the critical role of the isolobal analogy between C=P and C=C bonds in governing nanoscale molecular motion and break new ground for our understanding of light‐induced molecular processes in symmetric heteroalkene systems.
High‐Entropy Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks for Dynamic Hydrogen Isotope Separation
Authors: Nam Joohan , Cho Changhyeon , Jung Sungyeop , Jung Minji , Kim Yeongjin , Hong Yejin , Lee Sohyeon , Oh Hyunchul , Choe Wonyoung
Published: December 2024

Entropy‐driven strategy enables the systematic design of complex systems by using entropy as a quantifiable design parameter for the degree of mixing. In this study, we present mixed‐linker zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), sod‐ZIF‐1 series, that features two types of six‐membered rings (6MRs) with aperture sizes of 3.4 Å and 1.7 Å. By adjusting the configurational entropy, the ratio of these 6MRs can be systematically controlled, which significantly influences adsorptive properties, particularly improving the H2 affinity about 3 times throughout the series. This results in the significant enhancement of retention times in dynamic separation of hydrogen isotopes (D2/H2), even over LNG liquefaction temperature. This approach to entropy‐driven pore engineering provides new opportunities for enhancing gas adsorption and separation processes.
A Tetrazine Amplification System for Visual Detection of Trace Analytes via Click‐Release Reactions
Authors: Li Jing , Cheng Mingxin , Zhang Hongbo , Wang Yichen , Guo Weiwei , Zheng Yueqin
Published: December 2024

Achieving visual detection of analytes at ultra‐low concentrations in complex mixtures remains a persistent challenge. While sophisticated techniques offer single‐molecule sensitivity, practical hurdles remain, necessitating tailored signal amplification systems for direct visual detection. In this study, we develop a strategy for the visualized detection of tetrazine through a “click‐release‐oxidation‐cycle” (CROC) cascade amplification process. We systematically describe the construction and synthesis of this system, the kinetic process of click release, the kinetics of oxidation to tetrazine and its cascade amplification effect in trace amounts of tetrazine. This system is capable of amplifying the signal of tetrazine at a concentration as low as 2 nM by 105‐fold, thereby providing a clearly visible purple signal. Finally, as proof of concept, we successfully apply this method to visually detect trace β‐galactosidase (β‐gal) and Pd2+.
Multi‐Electron Transfer Halide Cathode Materials Based on Intercalation‐Conversion Reaction Towards All‐Solid‐State Lithium Batteries
Authors: Zhou Xu , Jiang Ming , Duan Yuhao , Jia Zhenghao , Yuan Cheng , Feng Kai , Fu Qiang , Zhang Liang , Yang Xiaofei , Li Xianfeng
Published: December 2024

All‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) with non‐flammable solid‐state electrolytes offer high energy density and enhanced safety. However, their energy densities are greatly limited by low‐capacity and low‐ionic‐conductivity oxide cathode materials, typically relying on the intercalation‐deintercalation mechanism with a catholyte content of 15–30 wt %. Here we introduce the LixFeXx+2 (X=Cl, Br) families as high‐capacity and high‐ionic‐conductivity alternatives, operating via a 3 mol e− transfer intercalation‐conversion coupling reaction. Notably, the catholyte‐free ASSLBs using 95 wt % LiFeCl3 active material delivers a remarkable capacity of 446 mAh g−1 and a high energy density of 912 Wh kg−1, which surpasses most oxide cathode materials. Of particular interest is the formation of amorphous Fe during the conversion process. The amorphous Fe exhibits high activity, catalyzing the conversion of LiX back to LixFeXx+2, which proves instrumental in realizing reversible intercalation‐conversion reactions. These halide cathode materials represent a significant advancement towards high‐energy‐density ASSLBs.