bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐supervised adversarial diffusion models for fast MRI reconstruction
Authors: Safari Mojtaba , Eidex Zach , Pan Shaoyan , Qiu Richard L. J. , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: February 2025

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers excellent soft tissue contrast essential for diagnosis and treatment, but its long acquisition times can cause patient discomfort and motion artifacts.

Purpose

To propose a self‐supervised deep learning‐based compressed sensing MRI method named “Self‐Supervised Adversarial Diffusion for MRI Accelerated Reconstruction (SSAD‐MRI)” to accelerate data acquisition without requiring fully sampled datasets.

Materials and Methods

We used the fastMRI multi‐coil brain axial ‐weighted (‐w) dataset from 1376 cases and single‐coil brain quantitative magnetization prepared 2 rapid acquisition gradient echoes maps from 318 cases to train and test our model. Robustness against domain shift was evaluated using two out‐of‐distribution (OOD) datasets: multi‐coil brain axial postcontrast ‐weighted () dataset from 50 cases and axial T1‐weighted (T1‐w) dataset from 50 patients. Data were retrospectively subsampled at acceleration rates . SSAD‐MRI partitions a random sampling pattern into two disjoint sets, ensuring data consistency during training. We compared our method with ReconFormer Transformer and SS‐MRI, assessing performance using normalized mean squared error (NMSE), peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR), and structural similarity index (SSIM). Statistical tests included one‐way analysis of variance and multi‐comparison Tukey's honesty significant difference (HSD) tests.

Results

SSAD‐MRI preserved fine structures and brain abnormalities visually better than comparative methods at for both multi‐coil and single‐coil datasets. It achieved the lowest NMSE at , and the highest PSNR and SSIM values at all acceleration rates for the multi‐coil dataset. Similar trends were observed for the single‐coil dataset, though SSIM values were comparable to ReconFormer at . These results were further confirmed by the voxel‐wise correlation scatter plots. OOD results showed significant (p ) improvements in undersampled image quality after reconstruction.

Conclusions

SSAD‐MRI successfully reconstructs fully sampled images without utilizing them in the training step, potentially reducing imaging costs and enhancing image quality crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Investigating the Link Between Free Androgen Index and Nocturia in Women: Findings From National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Gao Shang , Fan Lianhui , He Jingteng , Liu Hongtao , Tian Renli
Published: February 2025

Background

Nocturia is the most prevalent lower urinary tract symptom in women, affecting approximately 54.5% of female patients and significantly impacting the quality of life. While the androgen levels may be related to urinary function, its association with nocturia in women remains unclear. This study aims to explore the relationship between androgen levels and nocturia in women.

Methods

This study utilized data from the 2013–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), including 4531 women aged 20 and above. The level of androgen is reflected by the total testosterone (TT) and free androgen index (FAI). Weighted logistic regression models were employed to analyze the association between FAI, TT, and nocturia.

Results

After comprehensive adjustment for confounding factors, higher FAI levels were significantly associated with a reduced risk of nocturia (OR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.74–0.95). Women in the highest FAI tertile had a significantly lower incidence of nocturia compared to those in the lowest tertile (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.60–0.93). Trend analysis indicated a significant decrease in nocturia occurrence with increasing FAI levels (P for trend = 0.0177). No significant association was found between TT levels and nocturia.

Conclusions

Higher FAI levels are significantly inversely associated with nocturia in women, suggesting that bioavailable testosterone may have a protective effect against nocturia. This finding underscores the importance of considering FAI levels in research and clinical practice, and future studies should explore the potential benefits of modulating FAI levels in women with nocturia.
Oral microbiota and central nervous system diseases: A review
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxuan , Zhong Mengmeng , Li Yang , Wang Hui , Xi Guangjun , Wang Feng , Cheng Chao , Shi Yachen
Published: February 2025

Oral microbiota is the second largest microbial colony in the body and forms a complex ecological community that influences oral and brain health. Impaired homeostasis of the oral microbiota can lead to pathological changes, resulting in central nervous system (CNS) diseases. However, the mechanisms and clinical value of how the oral microbiome influences the brain remain unclear. This review summarizes recent clinical findings on the role of the oral microbiota in CNS diseases and proposes potential approaches to understand the way the oral microbiota and brain communicate. We propose three underlying patterns involving neuroinflammation, neuroendocrine regulation, and CNS signaling between oral microbiota and CNS diseases. We also summarize the clinical characteristics and potential utilization of the oral microbiota in ischemic stroke, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, intracranial aneurysms, and mental disorders. Although the current findings are preliminary and clinical evidence is incomplete, oral microbiota is a potential biomarker for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of CNS diseases.
Workforce Recruitment Through Pre‐Nursing Vocational and Education Training Schemes. A Qualitative Evaluation Through a Social Capital Lens
Authors: Waite Marion , Appleton Jane , Greenway Kathleen , Crookston Robert , Nathoo Sanj , Henshall Catherine
Published: February 2025

Aim

To evaluate learners' and stakeholders' experiences and perspectives of two models of pre‐nursing vocational education and training (VET) schemes on nursing workforce recruitment.

Design

Qualitative exploratory approach.

Methods

This qualitative study comprised online, semi‐structured interviews of nine stakeholders and eight trainees from one United Kingdom region in which two pre‐nursing VET scheme models were implemented. Interview data was thematically analysed and interpreted through a social capital theory lens.

Results

The interviews uncovered three key themes concerning the participants' experiences and perspectives on workforce recruitment: motivations and expectations, relational aspects of curriculum design and delivery and future possibilities. Established social structures were reported to be connected to education and clinical boundaries, enabling learners to build relationships with staff and patients and influencing their identity and career choices in healthcare. Limited placement opportunities hindered clinical learning, trainees from non‐traditional backgrounds were underrepresented, and the validity of the academic preparation was unclear.

Conclusion

The study makes a novel contribution by explaining how social assets can be created for all parties through two pre‐nursing VET models when stakeholders' expectations and motivations align with learners' aspirations for a vocational route into nursing. This potentially leads to recruitment into nursing and healthcare pathways. The study's insights also showed a lack of recognition of this route to nursing and a lack of standardisation in access and educational delivery. The findings have implications for policy and educational practice. A deeper understanding of the socioeconomic factors affecting learners' nursing and healthcare career choices can enhance existing knowledge. Furthermore, studies are required to compare with other regions nationally and internationally to determine how pre‐nursing VET schemes significantly address the global nurse recruitment crisis while considering local social and economic contexts.

Reporting Method

Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ).

Patient or Public Contribution

Stakeholder consultation during the study's design phase influenced the development of the research questions. Presenting the findings at a regional stakeholder workshop highlighted the key discussion points reported in the paper.
Synthesis of Dendritic Oligo‐Glycerol Amphiphiles with Different Hydrophobic Segments to Improve their Performance as Nanocarriers
Authors: Kumari Pooja , Zoister Christian , Hanheiser Natalie , Makki Hesam , Schade Boris , Dimde Mathias , Achazi Katharina , Kumar Sumit , Haag Rainer , Singh Abhishek K.
Published: February 2025

A new class of non‐ionic dendritic amphiphiles has been developed from biobased chemicals, in particular glycerol‐based dendrons coupled to commercially available acids via the Steglich esterification process. These non‐ionic amphiphiles are functionalized with different hydrophobic segments to investigate the contribution of the same towards their guest transport behaviour. Therefore, different alkyl chains i.e, C8 and C12, as well as two different aromatic units were introduced as a hydrophobic segments and G1‐oligo‐glycerol as a hydrophilic segment. Their physicochemical properties were characterized by different techniques such as dynamic light scattering and fluorescence measurements. The results show that these amphiphiles form a very uniform micellar supramolecular structures that is independent of the hydrophobic system. The critical micelle concentration for the prepared non‐ionic amphiphiles was found to be in the range of 0.3 to 1.8 mg/mL, which depend on the type of hydrophobic units. The encapsulation capacities of the amphiphiles were tested using Nile Red and Nimodipine as model dye and drug, respectively. The encapsulation studies showed a preference for C12‐ and pyrene‐based amphiphiles through relatively different mechanisms unraveled by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Further, the cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of these systems as well as the release profiles were investigated.
Development of Halloysite Nanotubes (HNT) Incorporated Crosslinked Sodium Alginate Membranes for Dehydration of Isopropanol Using Pervaporation Separation
Authors: Chavan Shreenivas G. , Davis Fred J. , Kariduraganavar Mahadevappa Y.
Published: February 2025

Pervaporation (PV) separation of azeotropic mixtures has shown considerable potential as an alternative to distillation. However, developing high‐performance PV membranes with a high flux and separation factor has been a significant challenge in this process. In this work, we have developed halloysite nanotube (HNT) incorporated sodium alginate (NaAlg) membranes crosslinked with poly(styrene sulfonic acid‐co‐maleic acid) (PSSA‐co‐MA). The developed membranes contained 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mass% of HNT with respect to NaAlg. An equilibrium swelling experiment was carried out using various compositions of water and isopropanol mixtures. The separation performance of HNT incorporated NaAlg‐PSSAMA membranes was examined systematically for the separation of isopropanol azeotropic mixtures at various temperatures. The membranes containing 20 mass% of HNT exhibited the maximum separation factor (α) of 14,785, with a flux (J) of 21.08 × 10−2 kg m−2 h−1 at 30°C for 10 mass% of water in the feed. These membranes were capable of breaking the azeotropic point of mixtures of water–isopropanol efficiently. The activation energy values obtained for water permeation were much lower than those obtained for isopropanol permeation, indicating that these membranes had good separation capacity for the water–isopropanol system. The activation energy for total permeation (EP) for the membranes M‐0 and M‐4 are 20.95 and 23.37 kJ mol−1, respectively. Similarly, the activation energy for total permeation diffusion (ED) for the membranes M‐0 and M‐4 are 21.76 and 25.48 kJ mol−1, respectively. The enthalpy values of all the membranes are negative, indicating that Langmuir's mechanism of sorption predominated the process.
Hydrogel Based on Starch and Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate) Recycling Products for the Slow Release of Urea
Authors: Gerling Esteban , Schneider Daniela E. , Gryczak Marcelo , Petzhold Cesar L. , Daitx Tales S.
Published: February 2025

This study focused on developing a novel polymeric hydrogel for agricultural applications, addressing the challenges of nutrient retention and controlled release. The hydrogel was synthesized using starch as a matrix and incorporated dPET, a byproduct of polyethylene terephthalate depolymerization, as a hydrophobic modifier. Urea was included as fertilizer. The dPET, was synthesized via a sustainable microwave‐assisted method, was characterized to confirm its successful synthesis. Hydrogels were prepared with varying dPET content (0%, 20%, 50%, and 65%). The 65% dPET hydrogel exhibited significantly reduced water uptake (from 1061% to 226%) and improved brittleness compared with the control. Thermal analysis revealed a decrease in the stability, with the onset of degradation shifting from 330°C to 135°C. Subsequently, urea (5, 10, and 20 wt.%) was incorporated into the hydrogel formulations. Evaluation using corn and onion crops demonstrated that the hydrogel with 35% starch and 65% dPET achieved a 60% reduction in urea release compared to free urea, while maintaining a slow and controlled release profile. Importantly, none of the hydrogel formulations inhibited crop growth and development. These findings contribute significantly to the development of cost‐effective and eco‐friendly fertilizers for sustainable agriculture.
BinDel: Detecting Clinically Relevant Fetal Genomic Microdeletions Using Low‐Coverage Whole‐Genome Sequencing‐Based NIPT
Authors: Paluoja Priit , Jatsenko Tatjana , Teder Hindrek , Krjutškov Kaarel , Vermeesch Joris Robert , Salumets Andres , Palta Priit
Published: February 2025

Objective

Clinically pathogenic chromosomal microdeletions cause severe genetic disorders. Motivated by the absence of reliable screening of microdeletions during the first‐trimester screening, we developed BinDel, a software tool to determine the risk of clinically relevant pathogenic fetal microdeletions from low‐coverage whole‐genome‐sequencing (WGS) based NIPT data.

Methods

We developed novel computational software that employs a targeted approach with region‐specific normalisation and calling procedures to detect microdeletion risk in predefined chromosomal regions. The software was developed using 500 NIPT samples and validated on an additional 84 samples, including 34 rare fetal microdeletions confirmed both pre‐ and postnatally.

Results

BinDel correctly identified 30 out of 34 samples with microdeletions, with only three false‐positive calls among 50 euploid samples, all latter originating from the Williams‐Beuren and Prader‐Willi/Angelman syndrome‐associated microdeletion regions.

Conclusions

We confirmed BinDel's feasibility for integrating microdeletion analysis into routine NIPT protocol. This work stands as a unique contribution to prenatal microdeletion screening, providing a novel and readily available software tool that was validated with a large set of actual microdeletion samples, positioning it as the first of its kind in the field. BinDel is available at https://github.com/seqinfo/BinDel.
Utilisation Trends of Lisdexamfetamine: Insights From Recent Medicine Shortages in Australia
Authors: Janetzki Jack , Kalisch Lisa , Hall Kelly , Pratt Nicole
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Investigate the impact of recent notified medicine shortages on dispensing patterns of 30, 40, 50, and 60 mg strengths of lisdexamfetamine for treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Australia.

Methods

Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) aggregate dispensing data for 2022–2024 were analysed. Monthly dispensings and Defined Daily Doses (DDDs) for lisdexamfetamine were calculated overall and by product strength.

Results

From January 2022 to August 2023, there was a constant increase in overall dispensing and volume of lisdexamfetamine likely due to expansion of PBS prescribing restrictions allowing subsidy of this medicine for patients 18 years and older in February 2021. Dispensings of the 30 mg strength decreased from August 2023 corresponding with shortages of this product. Dispensings of the 50 mg peaked in October 2023 then decreased. During the shortage of the 30 and 50 mg strengths, dispensings of the 40 and 60 mg strengths increased, however, by December 2023 dispensings of these strengths were also decreasing. Dispensings of 70 mg strengths grew steadily throughout 2024. DDDs changed substantially during the shortage period suggesting that people likely transitioned to different strengths of lisdexamfetamine to maintain their dose.

Conclusion

Dispensing patterns of lisdexamfetamine, by strength, changed significantly during the medicines shortages periods revealing potential changes in prescriber and patient behaviours, such as switching to higher strength products or using medicines intermittently, to maintain continuity of care. To facilitate quality use of medicines during shortages, dispensing patterns must be monitored so that inequities of access can be identified and addressed.
A new generation of green rubber plasticizer: Study on the application of liquid polybutadiene rubber in green radial tread rubber
Authors: Zhao Guangxin , Yong Zhanfu
Published: February 2025

Liquid rubber, an environmentally friendly oligomer with low viscosity, exhibits the capability of co‐crosslinking within the rubber matrix. In this paper, liquid butadiene rubber (LPBD) is employed to replace the plasticizer‐treated distillate aromatic extract (TDAE) in the green tread rubber. The results demonstrate the superior performance of LPBD compared to TDAE, particularly in terms of tensile strength at both high and room temperature, elongation at break, and rebound properties. Although the increase in DIN abrasion volume and loss factor at 60°C is relatively smaller, and the hardness is reduced in the case of equal replacement of TDAE, these performance improvements can be achieved by adjusting the crosslink density to achieve comparable results with TDAE plasticizer usage. In summary, LPBD can replace TDAE, reduce rolling resistance, and improve wet skid resistance, offering a promising solution to the long‐standing issue of plasticizer pollution in the rubber industry.

Highlights

Feasibility of using LPBD instead of TDAE as a plasticizer in the green tread rubber.

Crosslinking of LPBD and rubber matrix improves mechanical properties at high temperature.

Adjustment of crosslinked network improves wet skid resistance and rolling resistance.
DPP‐IV Inhibitory Peptides From Whey Proteins: Production, Functional Mechanisms, Bibliometric Insights, and Future Directions for Type 2 Diabetes Therapy
Authors: García‐Curiel Laura , Berenice Olvera‐Rosales Laura , Elizabeth Cruz‐Guerrero Alma , Emmanuel Pérez‐Escalante , Pérez‐Flores Jesús Guadalupe , Guillermo González‐Olivares Luis
Published: February 2025

This study addressed the therapeutic potential of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP‐IV) inhibitory peptides obtained by whey protein hydrolysis as natural adjuvants to synthetic drugs for managing type 2 diabetes (T2D), a condition marked by insulin resistance and hyperglycemia. Given the rising global incidence of T2D, exploring such bioactive compounds is important for developing effective and sustainable treatment strategies. The research highlights the role of DPP‐IV inhibitors in promoting insulin secretion by preventing the degradation of incretin hormones, with whey‐derived peptides emerging as promising natural candidates for DPP‐IV inhibition. A bibliometric analysis revealed a steady growth in publication output since 2006, with significant contributions from China, France, and the USA, underscoring this field's global and interdisciplinary nature, which spans food science, physiology, and nutrition. The VOSviewer analysis identified key research clusters, including “Health Benefits and Biological Effects of Dairy Proteins,” “T2D/drug therapy,” and emerging areas like “insulin/metabolism” and “diet,” reflecting a growing interest in these topics. The findings emphasize the expanding focus on functional foods and bioactive compounds in chronic disease management, highlighting the necessity for further research to fully elucidate the impact of these peptides on T2D and their potential role in global health initiatives, emphasizing the importance of integrating bioactive compounds into functional foods to support long‐term health outcomes and the need for clinical trials to validate the efficacy further.
Validation of Thermal Models for Bifacial Photovoltaic Systems Under Various Albedo Conditions
Authors: Kirsten Vidal de Oliveira Aline , Braga Marília , Naspolini Helena Flávia , Rüther Ricardo
Published: February 2025

This study evaluates the performance of three photovoltaic (PV) module operating temperature models—Ross, Faiman, and PVsyst®—using various measurement time resolutions for bifacial PV systems under various albedo conditions. This work also includes the application of these models using effective irradiance – incorporating both front and rear‐side plane of array irradiance – for the estimation of bifacial PV module temperature. The calculated heat transfer coefficients for each evaluated scenario are presented and discussed in detail. A comprehensive comparison of all simulated scenarios was carried out to recommend the most suitable model for each condition. Additionally, the use of estimated cell operating temperature from back‐of‐module temperature was evaluated across all scenarios. As expected, hourly resolutions provided better results for all scenarios, having the lowest error for temperature estimations across different models and ground (albedo) types. Accounting for rear‐side irradiance and using calculated coefficients led to more accurate temperature predictions, emphasizing the importance of model adaptations and precise parameterization. The results for different heat transfer coefficients varied significantly among the models. Ross's model, when applied with standard values (k between 0.02 and 0.04) showed close alignment with measured data. In contrast, Faiman's model with standard coefficients ( between 24 and 27 W/m2·°C, between 6 and 8 W/m2·°C/m/s) and PVsyst's standard coefficients ( = 29 W/m2·°C,  = 0 W/m2·°C/m/s) exhibited significant deviations. Adjusted coefficients for PVsyst® ( = 40 W/m2·°C,  = 0 W/m2·°C/m/s) provided better accuracy. The standard PVsyst® coefficients presented better results when compared against cell‐adjusted temperature estimates, rather than back‐of‐module measured values. This discrepancy can lead to significant estimation errors in both temperature output performance and for bifacial modules.
Key Considerations on CITE‐Seq for Single‐Cell Multiomics
Authors: Song Hye‐Wong , Martin Jody , Shi Xiaoshan , Tyznik Aaron J.
Published: February 2025

CITE‐Seq (Cellular Indexing of Transcriptomes and Epitopes by Sequencing) is an advanced single‐cell sequencing method to profile both gene expression and protein abundance simultaneously in individual cells using single‐cell mRNA sequencing techniques alongside antibody‐derived tags (ADTs), for protein detection. The characterization of both the transcriptome and the proteome from the same cells provides a powerful and multiomic approach for understanding the mechanisms of complex biological processes. This review focuses on the workflow of CITE‐Seq using a microwell‐based single‐cell analysis system as an example and provides key considerations for staining cells with ADTs. By highlighting critical information for CITE‐Seq library preparation, sequencing, and data analysis, this review provides a practical guide with which to perform comprehensive CITE‐Seq workflow.
Smart pH‐Sensitive Biopolymeric Nanocarrier Enables Controlled Release of Curcumin Through Biomimetic Biological Barriers
Authors: Fonseca Gislaine G. , Vieira Edileuza M. , Pereira Marcos V. S. , Andrade Tatianny de A. , Santos Anamaria M. , Gonçalves Amanda P. , Sarafini Mairim R. , Santos Anésia A. , de Figueiredo Eduardo Costa , de Jesus Jemmyson R.
Published: February 2025

Herein, the successful synthesis of a chitosan‐iron nanosphere‐based nanocarrier for smart delivery of curcumin (Cur) after penetration of the biomimetic barrier is reported. The synthesized nanocarrier displayed a spherical shape with an average size of 11 nm and a zeta potential value of −30.7 mV. The drug loading efficiency reached 64% ± 4% (n = 3). Infrared analysis confirmed the functionalization of the nanocarrier with Cur. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) demonstrated the nanocarrier's stability. The biopolymeric nanospheres exhibited a PCZ at pH 8.22. pH‐responsive study indicated Cur satisfactory release (> 80%) at pH = 7.4. Cur release kinetics followed a pseudo‐second order model (R2 = 0.933), indicating a controlled release behavior. In vitro permeation studies revealed that the polymeric nanocarrier successfully penetrated the biomimetic barrier and delivered Cur to the receptor compartment. Cytotoxicity studies using VERO cells and Artemia salina demonstrated that the nanocarrier exhibits low toxicity. Fluorescence microscopy images suggest that the nanocarrier has cytocompatibility with VERO cells, maintaining cell viability. However, hemolysis was observed at concentrations higher than 54 μmol L−1 in the hemolytic activity study. Finally, through albumin fluorescence suppression analysis, it was observed that the nanocarrier exhibited significant interaction with albumin, indicating its potential for transport through the circulatory system when administered intravenously.
Trajectories of Supportive Care Needs for People Who Travel to Receive Cancer Treatment: A Longitudinal Study in Australia
Authors: Ayre Susannah K. , Johnston Elizabeth A. , Ireland Michael , March Sonja , Dunn Jeff , Chambers Suzanne , Goodwin Belinda C.
Published: February 2025

Objective

To describe trajectories of change in unmet supportive care needs over a two‐year period among people diagnosed with cancer and assess whether these trajectories vary as a function of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.

Methods

This analysis used data from a longitudinal study of people in Queensland, Australia who travelled largely from regional and remote areas to metropolitan centres to receive cancer care (N = 784). Supportive care needs were measured at baseline, then at 3‐, 12‐, and 24‐month post‐baseline across five domains (‘psychological’, ‘physical and daily living’, ‘health systems and information’, ‘patient care and support’, ‘sexuality’) using the Supportive Care Needs Survey‐Short Form. Latent Curve Growth Analysis was performed to examine trajectories of change in unmet needs and assess whether these trajectories were influenced by participant characteristics.

Results

Significant linear slopes indicated a modest decrease in unmet supportive care needs for all domains, except sexuality. For most domains, significant variance in intercepts but not slopes indicated individual differences in needs at baseline but not in trajectories over time. At baseline, the proportion of unmet needs was highest for the ‘physical and daily living’ (M = 44.2%, SD = 39.1%) and ‘psychological’ domains (M = 37.8%, SD = 36.3%). Unmet needs at baseline were consistently higher among participants who were younger, had a higher education level, and who reported poorer QoL.

Conclusions

The proportion of unmet supportive care needs reported by people living with cancer may decrease over time, largely irrespective of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Despite this, unmet needs remain prevalent, particularly for physical and psychological support.
Frailty and Sleep in Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Childhood Cancer Survivor Study Report
Authors: Daniel Lauren C. , Lubas Margaret M. , Wang Huiqi , Szklo‐Coxe Mariana , Ness Kirsten K. , Williams AnnaLynn M. , Mulrooney Daniel A. , Howell Rebecca , Leisenring Wendy , Yasui Yutaka , Robison Leslie L. , Armstrong Gregory T. , Chow Eric J. , Krull Kevin R. , Brinkman Tara M.
Published: February 2025

Background

Young adult survivors of childhood cancer exhibit rates of frailty similar to adults several decades older without a cancer history. Frailty has been associated with sleep disturbances in non‐cancer populations, but the relationship has not been examined in childhood cancer survivors who are known to exhibit elevated rates of sleep problems.

Aims

Examine associations between frailty and poor sleep quality in long‐term survivors of childhood cancer.

Methods

This study utilized data from 9044 participants (> 5 years from diagnosis, Mage = 40.8 years [SD = 9.5]) in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study. Survivors' frailty status, chronic health conditions (CHC), health behaviors, mental health, and pain were collected in 2014–2016, and self‐reported sleep quality in 2017–2019. Multivariable logistic regression models examined frailty status as a predictor of clinically significant poor sleep. All models were adjusted for age at diagnosis, age at survey, sex, race/ethnicity, smoking, risky/heavy alcohol use, and physical inactivity. Separate models included treatment‐related variables, CHC burden (number/severity), and emotional health/pain as co‐variates.

Results

Frail survivors had 6‐fold (95% CI 4.48–7.96) increased odds of future poor sleep quality. Little attenuation of this association was observed when accounting for cancer diagnosis (Odds Ratio [OR] 5.80, 95% CI 4.47–7.52), treatment exposures (OR 5.80, 95% CI 4.43–7.71), or chronic health condition burden (OR 5.12, 95% CI 3.98–6.59), but adjustment for emotional health/pain (OR 2.88, 95% CI 2.18–3.82) attenuated the association appreciably.

Conclusions

Frail childhood cancer survivors have a higher prevalence of clinically significant poor sleep quality. Addressing poor physiologic reserve may impact sleep in frail childhood cancer survivors.
The Botanical University Challenge: Bridging isolation and empowering plant‐aware students
Authors: Hall Hannah , Stroud Sebastian , Culham Alastair , Clubbe Colin , Batke Sven , Medcalf Susan , Jones Meriel G. , Baker Lauren , Lydon Susannah , McGale Erica , Acedo Carmen , Charmley Jonathan , Warren John M. , Mitchley Jonathan
Published: February 2025

Societal Impact Statement

In some indigenous languages, plants are referred to as ‘those who care for us’, reflecting their essential role in tackling global challenges. Yet, urbanisation and other factors have reduced engagement with plants and botany, decreasing awareness, especially among students. To combat this, three botanists launched the Botanical University Challenge (BUC) to inspire plant‐aware students in the United Kingdom and Ireland. We show how, through competition, BUC fosters a community of budding botanists, equips students with skills to tackle environmental issues and bridges fragmented interest in plants. Its success has sparked similar contests internationally, showcasing BUC's broad appeal and potential to elevate botany globally.

The Botanical University Challenge (BUC) competition was first devised by three academic botanists in 2015 to champion plants and plant‐aware students and to help connect disparate and disconnected student botanists across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Since then, BUC has grown in popularity to become the largest annual botanical contest in Europe (and possibly the world) with teams competing from a total of 33 higher education institutions from the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland answering questions on the full breadth of the botanical sciences. Through running the competition and (since 2023) an associated Student Botany Festival, the BUC Planning Team has had the opportunity to engage with a diverse cohort of plant‐aware students, from undergraduate to doctoral level, enabling them to share their values, passions and concerns for the future. We discuss the development of BUC and our ambitions concerning the future growth and impact of the BUC competition and the ways in which BUC has supported plant‐aware students, such as skills training and career pathway development. We also present two international case studies where the BUC format has been used to facilitate student education and engagement in other countries. We envision BUC as a vehicle to enable connections between plant‐aware students, not only nationally within the United Kingdom but internationally, by encouraging and supporting other communities in similar endeavours.
Fluorescein Derivative Monomer for the Production of Fluorescent Latex Particles
Authors: Femia Anabela L. , Gugliotta Luis M. , Gonzalez Verónica D. G.
Published: February 2025

The use of fluorescent latex particles (FLP) as a tool for microscopy imaging or flux cytometry is an excellent choice for diagnosis, research, and development. They are suitable for complex formation with several biological molecules and macromolecules. A simple and cost‐effective method is here proposed to produce FLP. To this effect, the synthesis of a fluorescent monomer, capable of being copolymerized with vinyl monomers, is achieved by a reaction between fluorescein and glycidyl methacrylate, and monitored by UV–vis, IR, NMR, and Fluorescence spectrometry. The synthesis of fluorescent particles is carried out by emulsion copolymerization of styrene, methacrylic acid, and the fluorescent monomer. Latexes are characterized by measuring styrene/methacrylic acid conversion, average particle diameter, fluorescence, surface charge, and group density. Conversion reaches ≈90%, and negatively charged particles of 130–260 nm are obtained, which proved to have high fluorescence with an emission maximum of 511 nm. Cell fluorescent staining is carried out using the obtained particles. Observation of the FLP‐treated cells by confocal microscopy exhibited intense fluorescence within all the internal media, with a fluorescein‐like emission pattern. The production of stable fluorescent particles, with controlled size and high fluorescein incorporation, capable of interacting with proteins and cells efficiently, is confirmed.
AWSD Reactive Burn Model for High Explosive LX‐14
Authors: Craven Galen T , Ticknor Christopher
Published: February 2025

The results of an Arrhenius–Wescott–Stewart–Davis (AWSD) reactive flow calibration for the HMX‐based high explosive LX‐14 are presented. The parameters in the AWSD model are calibrated to experimental thermodynamic and gas gun data and to computational results from thermochemical calculations. There is no experimental rate stick data available for LX‐14; therefore, scaled experimental results from other PBX‐based high explosives are used in the calibration to fill this gap in data. Strong agreement is observed between the calibrated AWSD model and experimental data for LX‐14, including validation data that were not used in the calibration procedure. The developed model more accurately describes experimental shock‐to‐detonation results compared to several other reactive flow models for LX‐14 from the literature. The presented results illustrate that the AWSD model is capable of quantitatively describing the reactive burn of LX‐14.
Physiotherapists' Use of Attentional Focus Instructions and Feedback in the Philippines: A Survey Study
Authors: Eguia Kathlynne F. , Ng Shamay S. M. , Wong Thomson W. L.
Published: February 2025

Background and Purpose

Verbal instructions and feedback are critical motor learning elements within physiotherapy practice. With evident advantages associated with instructions and feedback that direct learner attention externally, it has been recommended that knowledge about the focus of attention (FOA) be translated into physiotherapy practice. However, most existing information on this topic comes from non‐Asian and high‐resourced settings. This study aims to fill the knowledge gap regarding context‐specific practice patterns by examining the preferences of physiotherapists in the Philippines for external or internal FOA when delivering instructions and feedback across various practice areas. We also explored how professional characteristics relate to these preferences and considerations for delivering instructions and feedback.

Methods

This study employed a cross‐sectional survey design. A total of 223 physiotherapists completed an online survey, of which 182 answered questions on their preferences for external or internal FOA based on clinical scenarios. The survey also collected information on participants' professional and practice backgrounds, conscious planning in delivering instructions and feedback, and considerations for varying instructions and feedback.

Results

The participants tended to prefer internal FOA for delivering instructions and feedback, which was not associated with educational background, years of experience, specialisation, geographic region, practice setting, or FOA familiarity. While only approximately half of the respondents were familiar with the concept of FOA, the majority tended to consciously plan the delivery of instructions and feedback based on clients' cognitive and impairment levels.

Discussion

There is an overall preference for internal FOA for delivering instructions and feedback among physiotherapists in the Philippines. Work is needed to enhance practitioners' knowledge of the evidence related to FOA and to facilitate knowledge translation that enables the utilisation of research in physiotherapy practice.
Special Issue Young People's Caring Practices in Transnational Families in Sweden and the UK: Care Ethics and Wellbeing
Authors: Suter Brigitte , Evans Ruth , Giralt Rosa Mas , Mozetič Katarina
Published: February 2025

Children are often regarded as ‘dependents’ within migration studies, rendering their care work invisible. Drawing on the ethics of care, this paper analyses young people's active roles in caring for family members in Sweden and the UK and for transnational kin, based on qualitative and participatory research with young people (aged 6–25). Many young people provided emotional support, language brokering and practical assistance to navigate care, welfare and immigration systems. Some young people engaged in higher levels of caregiving, often linked to inadequate formal care resources and the absence of a parent or extended kin who would usually be expected to provide care. Caregiving was often accompanied by gendered and inter‐ and intra‐generational conflicts, which could impact on young people's wellbeing and competence to provide ‘good care’. More awareness is needed of young people's crucial roles in filling the gaps in care, welfare and migration regimes in transnational spaces.
Population Growth and Decline in China: A Geographical Analysis, 1982–2020
Authors: Qiu Yingzhi , Cao Guangzhong , Liu Tao
Published: February 2025

Understanding historical population processes is crucial for interpreting current trends, forecasting future dynamics, and shaping regional and national development strategies. However, the historical trajectories and heterogeneous determinants of regional population growth and decline remain understudied. This study employs data from long‐term national population censuses, diverse supplementary datasets, and regression models to reveal the historical dynamics and drivers of prefecture‐level population growth and decline in China from 1982 to 2020. Our results disclosed the spread process of regional population decline in quantity and space, identified four major types and eight subtypes of population growth and decline trajectories by combining the regional population growth and decline status across every decade, delineated the distinct spatial patterns of these trajectories, and revealed the differentiated and evolving determinants of regions with population growth in the previous decade and those with population decline. Future trends of regional population growth and decline were predicted based on these analyses. These findings offer the following policy implications for addressing the challenges posed by widespread yet uneven regional population decline: adopting smart shrinkage strategies, enhancing economic and social resilience, and fostering higher‐scale regional cooperation.
Migration's Role in Shaping Socio‐Demographic Structure in the Peripheral Rural Regions: A Case Study of Lithuania
Authors: Ubarevičienė Rūta , Žinys Tautvydas , Kriaučiūnas Edis
Published: February 2025

This paper aims to deepen our understanding of how migration shapes the socio‐demographic structure of the peripheral rural regions. We bridge the fields of peripherality and migration research to address the gap in understanding their interplay. We use Lithuania as a case study, exemplifying the metropolization‐peripheralization trend and selective migration patterns. Our analysis uses a unique longitudinal, geocoded data set covering the entire population, including inner and international migrants, allowing for a detailed examination of migration patterns across spatial and temporal dimensions from 2001 to 2021. The results show significant variations in the characteristics of individuals migrating to and from peripheral rural regions across different directions, with two‐way migration flows playing an important role in shaping the socio‐demographic structure of these regions. Furthermore, migration—particularly inner migration—has become an increasingly important factor influencing population dynamics and contributing to further peripheralization.
Does Migration Widen Mortality Inequalities Between Rural and Urban Areas? Long‐Term Mortality Risk Among Rural Stayers, Rural Migrants, Urban Migrants, and Returners in Norway
Authors: Jakobsen Monika Dybdahl , Fylkesnes Knut , Braaten Tonje
Published: February 2025

In many countries, the main internal migration trend has been from rural to urban areas. However, there is little knowledge of whether internal migration from rural to urban areas contributes to widening geographical inequalities in health and survival. In the present study, we investigated differences in long‐term mortality risk among stayers (individuals who did not move from their rural municipality), rural migrants (individuals who moved to other rural municipalities), urban migrants (individuals who moved to urban municipalities), and returners (individuals who first moved to urban municipalities and then returned to rural municipalities). Data from a population‐based survey carried out among adults in Finnmark aged 30–62 years in 1987/88 was linked to the National Population Register and the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry to identify migration and deaths from recruitment to the health survey up to December 2017. Flexible parametric survival models were used to examine the age‐varying associations between different migration careers and mortality. For both men and women, the estimated mortality risk was lower for all internal migrant groups when compared to stayers. However, for men, the findings only applied to ages under 85 years for rural migrants, 81 years for urban migrants, and 71 years for returners, while for women, the findings applied to ages under 75 years for rural migrants, 78 years for urban migrants, and the age range 46–86 years for returners. The lower mortality risk observed among migrants contributes to widening health inequalities between rural depopulation areas and areas with increasing populations. Migrants to rural areas may limit this effect.
Elucidating Contributions of Drug Transporters/Enzyme to Nonlinear Pharmacokinetics of Grazoprevir by PBPK Modeling With a Cluster Gauss–Newton Method
Authors: Yoshikado Takashi , Aoki Yasunori , Nakamura Ryo , Shida Saeko , Sugiyama Yuichi , Chiba Koji
Published: February 2025

Grazoprevir (GZR), a direct‐acting agent for hepatitis C virus, is recognized as a substrate for organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B (OATP1B), cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A), and P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp). The objective of the present study was to elucidate the contribution of these molecules to the nonlinear pharmacokinetics of GZR using a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model. Utilizing plasma concentration–time profiles of GZR derived from reported dose‐escalation (50–800 mg) clinical studies and cumulative excretion data, around 10 parameters, including Michaelis constants (Km) for OATP1B, CYP3A, and P‐gp, were estimated via a cluster Gauss–Newton method (CGNM). Parameter combinations that could reproduce the clinical data of GZR were obtained; however, discrepancies were noted between the in vivo estimated Km and the corresponding in vitro Km. Next, by incorporating the in vitro Km values into our PBPK–CGNM analyses utilizing a penalized parameter method, newly obtained parameter combinations appropriately reflected both the in vivo and in vitro observations. Particularly regarding OATP1B, while saturation of uptake was not clearly observed in the in vitro experiments without human serum albumin (HSA), Km values capable of explaining in vivo saturation were obtained under physiological HSA concentrations. By estimating the extent of saturation for each molecule in the liver and intestine and conducting sensitivity analyses of the Km values, it was inferred that OATP1B3 contributed the most to the nonlinearity of plasma GZR concentrations, followed by P‐gp. In conclusion, the PBPK–CGNM, supplemented by penalized in vitro parameters, was shown to be effective for analyzing complex pharmacokinetics involving drug transporters and enzymes.
Thickness‐Controlled Ti Optical Filters Designed for Tunable Terahertz Technology
Authors: Qasrawi Atef Fayez
Published: February 2025

Herein, titanium (Ti) thin films deposited by a vacuum ion coating technique under a high vacuum pressure of 10−5 mbar are designed to perform as optical filters operatives in the terahertz frequency domain. The performance of these amorphous optical filters is controlled by varying the filter thickness in the range of 100–500 nm. Increasing the thickness of the filters decreases the optical transmittance, the absorption coefficient, the optical conductivity (σ), the terahertz cutoff frequency (fT), the drift mobility, and the free carrier concentration. The thickness‐based bulk limit of these filters is ≈300 nm. On the other hand, the increase in the optical filter thickness results in an increase the dielectric constant. Drude–Lorentz analyses on σ of the filters have shown the domination of four oscillators with oscillator frequencies of 1016, 859, 508, and 317 THz. These oscillators guarantee the good response of the Ti optical filters to optical excitations in the infrared, visible, and UV spectral domains. Based on the filter thickness, an extremely wide range of fT extending from ≈3.8 to 1248 THz can be achieved. The wide tunability of fT and σ of the Ti optical filters makes them promising for terahertz applications.