bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Adaptable Intelligent Filters of Dual Thermo‐ and pH‐ Responsive Filter Material
Authors: Wu Jingwei , Pourdeyhimi Behnam , Yarin Alexander L. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractIn this study, the development of novel pH‐responsive and dual thermo‐ and pH‐responsive filter materials is described. The dual‐responsive system combines poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) for temperature sensitivity and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) for pH responsiveness, which offers dynamic filtration capabilities tailored to environmental changes. PNIPAM is a thermo‐responsive polymer that undergoes significant conformational changes in response to temperature variations. The present work integrates PNIPAM's temperature sensitivity with the pH‐responsive properties of PAA, a versatile polymer widely recognized for its ability to change its conformation in response to pH variations. The dual materials developed here undergo conformational changes at specific temperatures and pH levels, modifying their hydrophilicity, pore size, and permeability. In particular, when exposed to higher temperatures, PNIPAM transitions from a hydrated, expanded state to a dehydrated, collapsed state, directly influencing the flow rate and selectivity of the filter medium that comprises it. On the other hand, PAA responds to pH changes by ionizing or deprotonating, causing swelling or shrinkage that alters the filtration performance of the media with embedded PAA. This dual responsiveness allows for the development of advanced filtration systems that can adapt to varying environmental conditions, optimize the capture of specific contaminants, and reduce fouling.
The conversion of electroanatomic maps for compatibility with treatment planning systems in cardiac radioablation target volume definition
Authors: Konermann Sarah L. , Gerard Ian J. , Bernier Martin L. , Hijal Tarek , Stroian Gabriela , Kopek Neil , Alfieri Joanne , El‐Hamedi Lynn , Pater Piotr 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundCardiac radioablation (CRA) is a new and promising treatment modality for patients with ventricular tachycardia refractory to standard‐of‐care treatment. Electroanatomic maps are used to define radiation target volumes; however, there is currently no native method to import electroanatomic maps into the treatment planning system (TPS).PurposeTo develop Edico, a semi‐automated tool to enable electroanatomic map import into a TPS, by converting electroanatomic maps to a Digital Imaging and COmmunications in Medicine (DICOM) standard. The overall aim is to facilitate target volume delineation and improve workflow efficiency in treating patients.MethodsEdico imports voltage and spatial data from electroanatomic maps and sorts these into voxels to be exported in a DICOM format, with each voxel containing the average voltage value of the data that falls within it. Three different rectangular electroanatomic maps were created and processed using Edico to ensure that expected features are maintained through processing. A sensitivity analysis of voxel size was completed using 19 different electroanatomic maps processed at five different sets of voxel dimensions, for a total of 95 resulting voxelized datasets. The coefficient of variation in each populated voxel in the datasets was analyzed to determine which voxel sizes are necessary to ensure that data loss is kept to a minimum throughout processing, despite averaging. Five electroanatomic maps were used to re‐contour clinical target volumes and planning target volumes for previously‐treated patients with their electroanatomic maps now directly registered to their planning computed tomography (CT) scans.ResultsAll three rectangular test electroanatomic maps were processed as expected. All tested voxel sizes resulted in low coefficients of variation overall, with the exception of the largest voxel size of 1.8 × 1.8 × 8 mm. When using Edico, a user should choose voxel dimensions similar to or smaller than those of a planning CT. Of five pairs of clinical and planning target volumes from previously treated patients, adjustments were made to four (80%), retrospectively, using the electroanatomic maps generated using Edico, registered to the patients’ planning CTs.ConclusionsEdico provides a reliable solution for electroanatomic map import into a TPS and facilitates clinical and planning target volume identification in CRA.
Modeling of 1,6‐Hexanediol Diacrylate Photopolymerization with Spatial Gradients and Film Shrinkage
Authors: El Halabi Alaa , Vo Anh‐Duong Dieu , Abdi Kaveh , Iedema Piet D. , McAuley Kimberley B. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractA dynamic model is proposed to account for shrinkage and swelling during the photopolymerization of 1,6‐hexanediol diacrylate (HDDA) with the bifunctional initiator bis‐acylphosphine oxide (BAPO) in the presence of oxygen. The model is composed of 14 partial differential equations (PDEs) that are used to track changes in film thickness along with time‐ and spatially‐varying concentrations of monomer, initiator, oxygen, pendant vinyl groups, and seven types of radicals. Shrinkage has a noticeable influence on the model predictions. For a variety of simulated photopolymerization experiments, there is ≈9% discrepancy between predicted overall vinyl‐group conversions obtained from the current model with shrinkage and a previous model without. Prediction discrepancies become larger for simulated experiments involving thin films (8 µm) or low light intensities (1200 W m−2). In the future, it will be important to re‐estimate the kinetic parameters used in the shrinkage model to obtain accurate model predictions for use in process improvement studies.
Orthosis Management in Knee Osteoarthritis: Evaluating Existing Recommendations and Achieving Consensus on Implementation Through the Delphi Method
Authors: Bazancir‐Apaydin Zilan 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveThe available evidence on orthosis management in the knee osteoarthritis (KOA) remains questionable. This study aims to evaluate existing recommendations and achieve consensus on their implementation through the modified Delphi method.MethodsExperienced experts in orthosis management for KOA patients participated in three Delphi rounds. Each round involved addressing various questions related to recommended orthosis type such as insole, knee brace, footwear, indications and contraindications, dosage of orthosis usage, follow‐up period, long‐term side effects, fitting, and weaning procedure. Consensus was defined as ≥ 70% agreement with a question.ResultsConsensus was achieved for all questions. Experts frequently recommended custom‐made insoles, neoprene knee braces, and appropriate footwear. The recommended duration of insole and knee brace usage averaged 3–6 months. Insole usage was advised during all weight‐bearing activities, while knee braces were suggested for 4–6 h per day. Experts recommended orthosis follow‐up for an average of 4–6 months. Reduced compliance with orthoses was highlighted by experts as the most significant long‐term side effect. The fitting of orthoses is typically evaluated through gait analyses, assessment of symptoms and comfort, and observation of the corrective effects on impaired biomechanics in the clinical setting. Besides, experts commonly recommend a gradual weaning process from orthoses.ConclusionsThis study addresses the existing lack of consensus on orthosis management in KOA and provides essential clinical practice recommendations from multidisciplinary experts.
Structural health monitoring of precracked structures using an in‐plane inverse crack‐tip element
Authors: Khalid Ihtisham , Qureshi Zahid Ahmed , Ali Hafiz Qasim , Oterkus Selda , Oterkus Erkan 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the application of the inverse finite element method (iFEM) in fracture mechanics by developing a novel two‐dimensional six‐node triangular inverse crack‐tip element. With its simplified formulation, the proposed inverse element is computationally efficient and ensures strain singularity at the crack tip by repositioning midside nodes. Its displacement‐based stress intensity factor (SIF) computation methodology integrates seamlessly with the existing iFEM framework, making it highly suitable for real‐time health assessment of structures with pre‐existing cracks. The inverse element has been rigorously validated for shape‐sensing and mixed‐mode SIF calculations by considering various crack geometries and mixed‐mode loading conditions. The triangular inverse element demonstrates superior flexibility in handling structured and unstructured discretizations in mapping regular and complex geometries, particularly high‐stress gradient areas like crack tips. The study also explores the variational least squares method for optimal sensor placement within the inverse element domain, ensuring accurate shape‐sensing and SIF computations with fewer onboard strain sensors. The proposed inverse formulation, with its accurate shape‐sensing capabilities and precise reconstruction of fracture parameters, represents a significant advancement in the real‐time Structural Health Monitoring of engineering structures with pre‐existing cracks.
Longitudinal Quantitative MRI Provides Responsive Outcome Measures for Early and Late Muscle Changes in ALS
Authors: Diaz Frank , Thornton John S. , Wastling Stephen S. , Asaab Abeer , Morrow Jasper M. , Zafeiropoulos Nick , Bresee Catherine , Allred Peggy , Avalos Pablo , Lewis Richard A. , Baloh Robert H. , Svendsen Clive N. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIntroduction/AimsStudies have demonstrated the potential of muscle MRIs to measure disease progression in ALS. However, the responsiveness and utility of quantitative muscle MRIs in an ALS clinical trial remain unknown. This study aimed to determine the responsiveness of quantitative muscle MRIs to measure disease progression in ALS.MethodsLongitudinal quantitative muscle MRIs were obtained in an ALS study that delivered human neural progenitor cells to the spinal cord (NCT02943850). Participants underwent MRIs at baseline, 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. MRI measures included fat fraction (ff), water T2 (T
2m), cross‐sectional area (CSA), and remaining muscle area (RMA). Non‐MRI measures included strength via Accurate Test of Limb Isometric Strength (ATLIS) and the ALSFRS‐R. Standardized response means (SRM) were calculated at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.ResultsSignificant increases in muscle FF and decreases in CSA and RMA were seen as early as 1 month from baseline. At 6 months, the most responsive measures were muscle FF (SRMthigh = 1.85, SRMcalf = 1.39), T
2m (SRMthigh = 1.2, SRMcalf = 1.71), CSA (SRMthigh = −1.58, SRMcalf = −1.14), RMA (SRMthigh = −1.77, SRMcalf = −1.28), and strength tested via ATLIS (SRMknee extension = −1.79, SRMknee flexion = −1.3). The ALSFRS‐R was the least responsive at 6 months (SRM = −0.85). Muscle FF and T
2m correlated with ALSFRS‐R leg subscores and MRI measures demonstrated varying degrees of correlation with strength.DiscussionHigh responsiveness and low variability make quantitative muscle MRI a novel and complementary outcome measure for ALS clinical trials.
Effect of multidisciplinary medical nutrition therapy on the nutrition status of patients receiving peritoneal dialysis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liang Yilan , Xu Fang , Guo Li , Jiang Wei , Li Jun , Shu Peng 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundMalnutrition is a prevalent complication in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). This study established a multidisciplinary team for medical nutrition therapy (MNT) to investigate the impact of this approach on enhancing the nutrition, anemic, and microinflammatory status of patients receiving PD.MethodsThis randomized controlled trial study involved 81 patients undergoing PD (n = 41 in the intervention group, n = 40 in the control group). The intervention group received comprehensive MNT management, whereas the control group received standard nutrition care. The intervention spanned a 6‐month period. Various nutrition parameters, markers of anemia, and microinflammatory indexes were assessed before the intervention, at 3 months, and at 6 months postintervention. Repeated‐measures analysis of variance and the nonparametric Scheirer‐Ray‐Hare test were used for within‐group and between‐group comparisons.ResultsThere were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of age, sex, duration of dialysis, primary disease, or baseline prenutrition inflammation data. At 6 months postintervention, the intervention group exhibited higher levels of serum albumin, blood calcium, serum iron, hemoglobin, total iron‐binding capacity, body mass index, midarm circumference, triceps skinfold thickness, handgrip strength, and daily energy and protein intake compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the intervention group demonstrated lower levels of subjective nutrition assessment value, C‐reactive protein, and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio than the control group (P < 0.05), with no statistically significant differences in other markers after interventions.ConclusionMultidisciplinary MNT can ameliorate the nutrition status of patients receiving PD, decrease the incidence of malnutrition, and improve anemia and microinflammatory outcomes.
Recent advances in therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease using protein/peptide co‐modified polymer nanoparticles
Authors: Hanumanthappa Ramesha , Parthasarathy Aravind , Heggannavar Geetha B. , PC Kiran , Nanjaiah Hemalatha , Kumbhar Ramhari , Devaraju Kuramkote Shivanna 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe blood‐brain barrier (BBB), which protects the brain from foreign molecules, makes delivery of drugs to the central nervous system is challenging. Nanoparticles (NPs) have been used over the past decade as drug delivery systems for the treatment of many disorders with great results. However, the effectiveness of NPs in delivering drugs to the brain for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) is limited by the BBB. A recent breakthrough in nanotechnology delivery systems involves the use of surface‐modified polymer NPs that enhance drug absorption and transport across the BBB; however, the technology still has some limitations. Studies conducted over the past few years have demonstrated that NPs modified with peptides or proteins can effectively cross the BBB via specific receptors, thus enhancing their delivery efficiency. In this review, we explore the use of polymer NPs combined with peptides and proteins for the treatment of AD and PD. This discussion focuses on the pathophysiology of these diseases, the BBB, and the potential of therapeutics based on co‐modifying NPs with peptides and proteins. Additionally, we outline future directions for the use of polymer NPs conjugated with these biomolecules.
Dysregulated HPA axis during postnatal developmental stages in the BTBRT+ Itpr3tf/J mouse: A model of autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Endo Nozomi , Hiraishi Atsuo , Goto Sayaka , Nozu Hitoshi , Mannari‐Sasagawa Takayo , Horii‐Hayashi Noriko , Kitsuki Michiko , Okuda Mamiko , Makinodan Manabu , Nishi Mayumi 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Some children with ASD show enhanced cortisol response to stress. BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice, an ASD model, display behavior consistent with the three diagnostic categories of ASD and exhibit an exaggerated response to stress in adulthood. However, it remains unclear how basal corticosterone levels change and how the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis responds to stress during the early life stages in BTBR mice. In this study, we found that basal corticosterone levels showed characteristic changes, peaking at weaning during postnatal development in both BTBR and control C57BL/6J (B6J) mice. Furthermore, we observed higher corticosterone and corticotropin‐releasing hormone levels in BTBR mice than in B6J mice following acute stress exposure during weaning; however, adrenocorticotropic hormone levels were lower in BTBR mice. Glucocorticoid receptor mRNA expression levels in the hippocampus and lateral septum after stress were higher in BTBR mice than in B6J mice. This study documented changes in corticosterone levels at baseline during postnatal development in mice and showed that BTBR mice exhibited disrupted stress responses at weaning.
A Wearable Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based on Polyester‐Paper Cloth for Mechanical Energy Harvesting and Running Motion Sensing
Authors: Deng Xu 
Published: November 2024

AbstractPaper‐based triboelectric nanogenerators (P‐TENGs) have recently garnered significant attention in wearable electronics. However, traditional P‐TENGs are constrained by the inherent strength limitations of paper. Hence, we reported a novel polyester‐paper cloth‐based triboelectric nanogenerator (PP‐TENG) designed for mechanical energy harvesting and running motion monitoring. Compared to paper, polyester‐paper cloth has higher durability and tear resistance. The PP‐TENG capitalizes on the unique fluffy internal structure of polyester‐paper cloth, imparting high sensitivity to pressure variations. Experimental results demonstrate that the PP‐TENG achieves an open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 466.64 V, a short‐circuit current (Isc) of 48.73 μA, and a transfer charge (Qsc) of 90 nC. Its maximum output power reaches 930.26 μW when connected to a 40 MΩ load. These impressive metrics underscore the potential of PP‐TENG in energy harvesting applications, particularly for wearable electronic devices. The device's integration into the soles of athletic socks showcases its practical utility, providing real‐time monitoring of runners’ gait and step count. This integration not only enhances the functionality of sportswear but also offers valuable data for performance analysis and injury prevention, marking a significant advancement in wearable technology and intelligent textiles. This research provide a promising path for self‐powered wearable sensors and flexible electronics applications.
Quantitative assessment of the thickness of the buccal subcutaneous fat using computed tomography to detect diabetes mellitus
Authors: Atsumi Ryoga , Ito Kotaro , Hirahara Naohisa , Muraoka Hirotaka , Kohinata Yuta , Kaneda Takashi 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAimDiabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with a variety of complications, including retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, and cardiovascular disease. However, detecting DM based on head and neck imaging findings remains challenging. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to quantitatively evaluate the thickness of the buccal subcutaneous fat using computed tomography (CT) for the purpose of detecting DM.MethodsThis retrospective study included 240 patients (91 males, 149 females; mean age, 59.5±12.6 years; range, 17–86 years). DM was defined based on the diagnostic criteria of the American Diabetes Association, with glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels ≥ 6.0%. Patients with type 1 DM, those with tumor‐related lesions in the head and neck fat pads, and those with CT images showing metal artifacts were excluded from this study. Buccal subcutaneous fat was measured manually at the point closest to the masseter muscle in the axial slice with the thicker buccal subcutaneous fat. Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to examine the correlation between buccal subcutaneous fat thickness and HbA1c levels. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine the cut‐off value for detecting DM.ResultsA positive correlation was observed between the buccal subcutaneous fat thickness and HbA1c levels. ROC analysis revealed that a buccal subcutaneous fat thickness of ≥ 10.875 mm indicated DM, demonstrating high sensitivity (82.2%).ConclusionsOur results demonstrate the relationship between the buccal subcutaneous fat thickness and HbA1c levels. Thus, DM can be detected based on the buccal subcutaneous fat thickness on CT images.
Multi‐omics analysis unveils the role of inflammatory cancer‐associated fibroblasts in chordoma progression
Authors: Zheng Bo‐Wen , Guo Wei 
Published: November 2024

AbstractCancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) constitute the primary cellular component of the stroma in chordomas, characterized by an abundance of mucinous stromal elements, potentially facilitating their initiation and progression; however, this inference has yet to be fully confirmed. In this study, single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq), spatial transcriptomics (ST), bulk RNA‐seq, multiplexed quantitative immunofluorescence (QIF), and in vivo and in vitro experiments were performed to determine the heterogeneity, spatial distribution, and clinical significance of CAFs in chordoma. ScRNA‐seq was performed on 87,693 single cells derived from seven tumor samples and four control nucleus pulposus samples. A distinct CAF cluster distinguished by the upregulated expression of inflammatory genes and enriched functionality in activating inflammation‐associated cells was identified. Pseudotime trajectory and cell communication analyses suggested that this inflammatory CAF (iCAF) subset originated from normal fibroblasts and interacted extensively with tumors and various other cell types. By integrating the scRNA‐seq results with ST, the presence of iCAF in chordoma tissue was further confirmed, indicating their positioning at a distance from the tumor cells. Bulk RNA‐seq data analysis from 126 patients revealed a correlation between iCAF signature scores, chordoma invasiveness, and poor prognosis. QIF validation involving an additional 116 patients found that although iCAFs were not in close proximity to tumor cells compared with other CAF subsets, their density correlated with malignant tumor phenotypes and adverse outcomes. In vivo and in vitro experiments further confirmed that iCAFs accelerate the malignant progression of chordomas. These findings could provide insights into the development of novel therapeutic strategies. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Experimental and numerical studies of the simultaneous effects of temperature and impact velocity on ballistic behavior of GLARE
Authors: Shirafkan Ali , Majzoobi Gholamhossein , Kashfi Mohammad 
Published: November 2024

AbstractFiber metal laminates (FMLs), which are constructed from thin metal sheets interspersed with fiber‐reinforced epoxy, are the focus of this study. Specifically, GLARE 2/1, which features a layer of glass fiber‐reinforced polymer (GFRP) sandwiched between two layers of Al 2024‐T3, is examined for its ballistic properties, particularly in aerospace applications. The effects of temperature and velocity on GLARE's ballistic performance are investigated through ballistic tests and simulations. The tests were carried out using a single‐stage light gas gun for three temperatures and seven impact velocities. The ballistic limit, specific absorbed energy (SAE), and failure modes of GLARE under high‐velocity impacts were analyzed in the investigation. Simulations of the ballistic tests were conducted using the LS‐DYNA hydrocode to examine the failure mechanisms and stress distribution within GLARE panels. The findings reveal that GLARE exhibits its highest ballistic limit at room temperature. Additionally, the SAE of GLARE samples decreases with increasing temperature; for instance, at an initial velocity of 167 m/s, the SAE at 60 and 100°C was reduced by 21% and 46%, respectively, compared to the SAE at room temperature. The simulations indicated that over 50% of the kinetic energy was absorbed by the rear Al 2024‐T3 (Al_2) layer of GLARE.Highlights
Ballistic limit of GLARE decreased with increasing temperature.
Higher impact velocities led to a plugging failure mechanism.
SAE of GLARE reduced as temperature increased.
Al_2 absorbed maximum kinetic energy across temperatures and velocities.
Simulations showed Al_2 absorbed over 50% of kinetic energy.