bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Parameningeal Rhabdomyosarcoma: Results of the European Pediatric Soft Tissue Sarcoma Study Group RMS 2005 Study
Authors: Schoot Reineke A. , Taselaar Pieter , Scarzello Giovanni , Kolb Frederic , Coppadoro Beatrice , Horst Simone ter , Mandeville Henry , Ferrari Andrea , Hladun Raquel , Helfre Sylvie , Ferman Sima , Kelsey Anna , Hol Marinka L. F. , Devalck Christine , Ben‐Arush Myriam , Orbach Daniel , Chisholm Julia , Jenney Meriel , Minard‐Colin Veronique , Bisogno Gianni , Merks Johannes H. M. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundParameningeal (PM) site is an unfavorable characteristic in rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS). We described the treatment and outcome for patients with PM RMS and investigated the prognostic value of risk factors. We scored PM site by originating site and by highest risk extension.MethodsPatients with PM RMS were treated within the European pediatric Soft tissue sarcoma Study Group (EpSSG) RMS 2005 study with risk‐adapted, multi‐modal treatment.ResultsThree‐hundred‐eighty‐one patients with PM RMS were included. Radiotherapy was administered in 359 patients (77 with surgery). After a median follow‐up of 75 months, 5‐year event‐free survival was 60% (95% confidence interval (CI) 55%–65%), 5‐year overall survival was 65% (95% CI 60%–70%).ConclusionsThe outcome for patients with PM RMS has not improved in comparison to previous historical studies, despite the more rigorous application of radiotherapy (94% of patients). Signs of meningeal involvement, PM site, and age at diagnosis remained prognostic risk factors.Trial RegistrationEudraCT number 2005‐000217‐35
Numerical Analysis of Micropolar Flow Along a Vertical Flat Plate in a Saturated Porous Medium Under Constant Heat Flux
Authors: Quran Omar , Maaitah Hussein , Elyyan Mutaz , Mustafa Mohamad Y. , Duwairi Hamzeh M. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe present study assesses the constant surface heat flux on a 2D steady convective flow of a micropolar fluid. The flow occurs along a vertical impermeable flat plate immersed in a fluid‐saturated porous medium. Numerical methods are used to convert the governing partial differential equations to gather the locally equivalent ordinary differential equations. Local similarity solutions also visually depict the velocity distribution and microrotation (ω) in the boundary layer. Furthermore, the influence of the physical variables on the flow field is investigated. The numerical results show that the effect of porosity (ε) on the velocity profile demonstrates a negative correlation between ε and velocity. The correlation between microrotation (ω) involving the ε influence also depends on the similarity parameter (η). Although microrotation (ω) increases with porosity (ε) in the region where the fluid is near the surface, this trend changes as the flow moves further away from the surface. The dimensionless microrotation (ω) value remains constant, while rotation is not observed for the similarity parameter (η) values exceeding 4.5. The value of microrotation (ω) value is small for the similarity parameter (η) values in the interval (0 < η < 1.4). Nonetheless, the microrotation (ω) value is high for the similarity parameter (η) values up to η = 4.5. Therefore, the point at η = 1.4 represents a crucial point in the present study. The results of the present study have been validated, and the comparison with related articles showed an excellent matching between results. Outcomes from the current study are very beneficial to enhance the performance of solar panels by improving the cooling of such panels.
Suppression of the Tissue Component With the Total Least‐Squares Algorithm to Improve Second Harmonic Imaging of Ultrasound Contrast Agents
Authors: Zhu Jingying , Zhang Yufeng , He Bingbing , Li Zhiyao , Xiong Li , Lang Xun 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe second harmonic (SH) of ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs) is widely used in contrast‐enhanced ultrasound imaging; however, is affected by the nonlinearity of surrounding tissue. Suppression of the tissue component based on the total least‐squares (STLS) algorithm is proposed to enhance the SH imaging of UCAs. The image blocks of pulse‐inversion‐based SH images before and after UCA injections are set as the reference and input of the total least‐squares model, respectively. The optimal coefficients of the model are obtained by minimizing the Frobenius norm of perturbations in the input and output signals. After processing all image blocks, the complete SH image of UCAs is obtained by subtracting the optimal output of the model (i.e., the estimated tissue SH image) from the SH image after UCA injection. Simulation and in vivo experiments confirm that the STLS approach offers clearer capillaries. For in vivo experiments, the STLS‐based contrast‐to‐tissue ratios and contrasts increase by 26.90% and 56.27%, as well as 26.99% and 56.43%, respectively, compared with those based on bubble‐echo deconvolution and pulse inversion bubble‐wavelet imaging methods. The STLS approach enhances the SH imaging of UCAs by effectively suppressing more tissue SH components, having the potential to provide more accurate diagnostic information for clinical applications.
In situ formation of pseudohalide anions induced by humid air and light passivates formamidinium‐based halide perovskites
Authors: Ye Jiselle Y. , Kerner Ross A. , Jiang Qi , Yang Fengjiu , Yang Jonghee , Ahmadi Mahshid , Harvey Steven P. , Steirer Kenneth X. , Kuciauskas Darius , Berry Joseph J. , Zhu Kai 
Published: November 2024

AbstractMetal halide perovskites based on formamidinium (FA), or FA‐rich compositions have shown great promise for high‐performance photovoltaics. A deeper understanding of the impact of ambient conditions (e.g., moisture, oxygen, and illumination) on the possible reactions of FA‐based perovskite films and their processing sensitivities has become critical for further advances toward commercialization. Herein, we investigate reactions that take place on the surface of the FA0.7Cs0.3, mixed Br/I wide bandgap perovskite thin films in the presence of humid air and ambient illumination. The treatment forms a surface layer containing O, OH, and N‐based anions. We propose the latter originates from formamidine trapped at the perovskite/oxide interface reacting further to cyanide and/or formamidinate—an understudied class of pseudohalides that bind to Pb. Optimized treatment conditions improve photoluminescence quantum yield owing to both reduced surface recombination velocity and increased bulk carrier lifetime. The corresponding perovskite solar cells also exhibit improved performance. Identifying these reactions opens possibilities for better utilizing cyanide and amidinate ligands, species that may be expected during vapor processing of FA‐based perovskites. Our work also provides new insights into the self‐healing or self‐passivating of MA‐free perovskite compositions where FA and iodide damage could be partially offset by advantageous reaction byproducts.image
AFM Nanoindentation of Stiff Inhomogeneous Layer on Polymeric Substrate
Authors: Morozov Ilya A. , Beliaev Anton Yu , Kamenetskikh Alexander S. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTAnalysis of indentation data of heterogeneous material, in particular, layer on an elastic substrate requires information about the contact area that is essential for calculating mechanical properties. The actual shape of the AFM‐tip is not described by simple body of revolution. In this work, the indentation of a stiff layer on a hyperelastic substrate by a truncated conical tip is studied using finite element methods. The size of the tip, elastic modulus, and thickness of the layer are varied. The obtained model dependences of loading and contact area versus the depth of indentation are used in analysis of the experimental data of AFM indentation of stiff inhomogeneous nanolayers of polyurethane surface. Thickness and elastic modulus of the layers, fracture properties of the surface are studied. The obtained results can find application in the study of mechanical properties and fracture toughness of thin flexible films on an elastic substrate.
Assessment of trochanteric vascularity using quantitative magnetic resonance imaging in a cadaveric model
Authors: Klinger Craig E. , Altintas Burak , Barth Kathryn A. , Lin Kenneth M. , Dewar David C. , Lazaro Lionel E. , Dyke Jonathan P. , Wellman David S. , Helfet David L. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractPurposeFew studies have assessed trochanteric vascularity despite its implications for bone healing and surgical approaches. This study aimed to assess the regional arterial contributions of the medial femoral circumflex artery (MFCA) versus the lateral femoral circumflex artery (LFCA) to trochanteric vascularity.MethodsTen adult human cadaveric pelvises to mid‐femur specimens were obtained. One hip was randomly assigned experimental (either MFCA or LFCA MRI‐contrast infusion) and contralateral as control (MFCA and LFCA magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]‐contrast infusion). Vascular dissection was performed for MFCA and LFCA cannulation. Pre‐ and post‐contrast 3T MRI was completed, and intra‐osseous contributions were quantified by region: greater trochanter (GT), intertrochanteric (IT), lesser trochanter (LT) and subtrochanteric (ST). A polyurethane compound mixed with barium sulfate was injected into the LFCA cannula, and into the MFCA cannula for the contralateral hip. Computed tomography (CT) imaging was completed to assess terminal branch locations.ResultsMFCA provided the majority of arterial contributions to the full trochanteric region (68.5% MFCA, 31.5% LFCA; standard deviation [SD]: 10.7%, p < 0.001). Over 70% of arterial contributions to ST, LT and IT regions are derived from MFCA. GT contributions were more balanced (52.5% MFCA, 47.5% LFCA; SD: 33.7%; p = 0.853). Significant differences were found between MFCA and LFCA contributions in all regions except for the GT. CT revealed multiple consistent MFCA and LFCA trochanteric terminal branches.ConclusionsMFCA provided the dominant trochanteric arterial supply, which highlights MFCA's importance to overall hip vascularity. LFCA's trochanteric contribution was smaller but still provided trochanteric contributions, especially the GT region. Knowledge of trochanteric arterial contributions can be beneficial for optimizing surgical approaches and fixation to protect terminal branches during trochanteric fracture, nonunion treatment and trochanteric osteotomies.Level of EvidenceNot applicable.
Sand Mining, Non‐Farm Employment and a Local Labour Force in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Hatlebakk Magnus , Rahman Mohammad Atique , Suykens Bert 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThis study focuses on the role of sand mining in rural livelihoods in Bangladesh, where the surge in sand extraction has raised environmental concerns. This study situates itself within the literature on Artisanal and Small‐Scale Mining (ASM), emphasizing the vital role of sand mining in diversifying rural economies. We found that a mixed‐methods approach, including a comprehensive livelihoods survey and qualitative fieldwork, was needed to uncover the importance of sand mining as a critical component of livelihood diversification. It serves as a stable income source, particularly for individuals with limited assets or education. The study highlights the predominantly local workforce in sand mining along Brahmaputra River near the city of Jamalpur, deviating from the typical mobile labour seen in ASM. Additionally, the study examines the potential effects of mechanization on sand labour, emphasizing the precarious nature of this livelihood.
One‐Step Leapfrog 3D Split‐Field FDTD Method for Periodic Structures at Oblique Incidence
Authors: Zhang Lingpu , Chen Juan , Mou Chunhui , Peng Ao 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThis article introduces a one‐step leapfrog three‐dimensional (3D) split‐field finite‐difference time‐domain (SF‐FDTD) method designed for analyzing periodic structures under oblique incidence, aiming to improve computational efficiency. Initially, it introduces new variables to substitute the field components postsplitting. After that, it applies time‐centered approximate difference method to precisely adjust the time step for each iteration. It eliminates the need for empirical coefficients when performing calculations with lossy materials. Finally, it derives the implementation of the convolutional perfectly matched layer (CPML) for the proposed method. The proposed method is both easier to implement and more resource‐efficient, significantly cutting down CPU usage and memory consumption. Numerical results confirm its improved efficiency.
Evidence for the oldest Middle Palaeolithic cave occupation in the Romanian Carpathians
Authors: Schmidt Christoph , Veres Daniel , Murătoreanu George , Cosac Marian , Niţă Loredana , Vasile Ştefan , Şerbănescu Gabriel Sebastian , Bartok Iuliana‐Elisabeta 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe Middle and Upper Palaeolithic sites in the Carpathians and Danube lowlands constitute key contexts for tracing the dispersal of Homo sapiens into central‐western Europe and the replacement of Homo neanderthalensis. Surprisingly, the Romanian archaeological inventory lacks transitional technologies and only a few sites have been systematically excavated and numerically dated, explaining the incomplete understanding of the Middle Palaeolithic and hence Neanderthal population dynamics. Here we present new age constraints for the Abri 122/1200 and Peștera Mare caves in the Romanian Carpathians, obtained by radiocarbon dating of charcoal and bone and by optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating of cave sediments. Methodological issues and the method's upper limit cause grossly underestimated radiocarbon ages for charcoal from Abri 122/1200 and provide only minimum ages (>41–60 14C ka
bp) for bones from Peștera Mare cave. However, the OSL ages suggest Middle Palaeolithic cave occupation in the Carpathians since early Marine Isotopic Stage (MIS) 7 and lasting at least until MIS 5. These ages reinforce the vast potential of Carpathian cave sites in solidifying our understanding of Neanderthal dynamics in the region and their habitats. We discuss the reliability of this new chronology and the archaeological implications for the Middle Palaeolithic of neighbouring areas.
Quantitative trait locus mapping and OsFLOq12 identification for rice grain hardness: towards improved rice flour for wheat substitution
Authors: Kim Eun‐Gyeong , Park Jae‐Ryoung , Lee Seong‐Beom , Jang Yoon‐Hee , Jan Rahmatullah , Asif Saleem , Farooq Muhammad , Kim Kyung‐Min 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDRecent shifts in consumer dietary preferences have led to a significant decline in rice consumption in Korea, resulting in surplus rice production. To address this issue, rice flour has been proposed as a substitute for wheat flour. However, the physical, chemical and structural differences between rice and wheat, particularly in grain hardness, pose challenges in using rice flour as an alternative. Understanding the genetic factors that influence rice grain hardness is crucial for improving the milling process and producing high‐quality rice flour suitable for wheat flour substitution.RESULTSIn this study, various grain traits, including length, width, thickness, length‐to‐width ratio and hardness, were measured in a population of brown and milled rice. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis revealed a significant association between grain hardness and thickness, with QTLs for grain hardness mapped on chromosomes 1 and 12 for brown and milled rice, respectively. A total of 20 candidate genes related to grain hardness were identified through QTL analysis. Among them, OsFLOq12 (LOC_Os12g43550) was identified as a key gene influencing grain hardness, which encodes a Ras small GTPase. Phenotypic analysis showed differences in endosperm appearance and particle size between lines with low and high grain hardness.CONCLUSIONThe genetic analysis of OsFLOq12 revealed a single nucleotide polymorphism associated with grain hardness. This study provides valuable insights into the genetic background of grain hardness, offering a foundation for breeding rice varieties optimized for flour production as a viable substitute for wheat flour. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Protective effects of Juglans regia oil on lead acetate‐induced reprotoxicity in rats: an antioxidant, histological and computational molecular study
Authors: Badraoui Riadh , Gargouri Manel , Brahmi Faten , Ben‐Nasr Hmed , Bahrini Insaf , Soussi Ahlem 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundLead (Pb) is a metal that affects many body systems, primarily the male reproductive system. This study aimed to examine the phytochemical profiling and beneficial effects of Juglans regia oil (JRO) in alleviating lead‐induced reprotoxicity‐associated oxidative injury in rats. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups as follows: control group received no treatment, Pb group was exposed to 0.344 g kg−1 bw of Pb acetate, Pb + JRO group was co‐treated with Pb plus walnut oil (0.9 g kg−1 bw) and JRO group received walnut oil only.ResultsPb‐treated rats showed significantly decreased gonado‐somatic index, count and viability of sperm. Testosterone levels decreased in Pb‐treated animals. Besides, Pb disrupted the oxidative/antioxidative status, the plasmatic lipase activity and testicular Pb content. Furthermore, Pb produced testis histopathological features, especially cell degeneration, atrophy and tubular disarrangement. Co‐treatment with JRO was found to be effective for recovering the increased testicular oxidative damage‐associated histological features in the Pb group. This was supported by the in silico modeling results.ConclusionThe in silico analyses revealed that JRO compounds bound androgen receptor and RAC‐alpha serine/threonine kinase with high affinities, which together with pharmacokinetic properties and molecular interactions satisfactorily support the beneficial in vivo findings in the Pb + JRO group of rats. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Addition of polyphenolic extracts of Myrtus communis and Arbutus unedo fruits to whey: valorization of a common dairy waste product as a functional food
Authors: Detti Cassandra , Nascimento Luana Beatriz Dos Santos , Gori Antonella , Vanti Giulia , Amato Giuseppe , Nazzaro Filomena , Ferrini Francesco , Centritto Mauro , Bilia Anna Rita , Brunetti Cecilia 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDWhey, a nutrient‐rich byproduct of the dairy sector, possesses high potential for creating novel nutraceutical products. The present study investigates a potential new functional food by incorporating polyphenolic extracts from Myrtus communis and Arbutus unedo fruits into whey in both liquid (LA) and powder (PA) addition forms. Chemical, microbiological, physical stability and antioxidant activity were monitored for 60 days (from T0 to T60).RESULTSBoth LA and PA of fruit extracts remained chemically stable for the whole period, except for A. unedo PA, which showed a decline in polyphenols after T45. Enriched whey samples showed higher antioxidant activity than pure whey. Microbiological analysis revealed the presence of lactic acid bacteria, indicating potential prebiotic effects. However, the high tannin concentration of A. unedo extracts partially modified the casein micelle structure.CONCLUSIONWhey enriched with Mediterranean fruit extracts shows great potential as a functional food, combining the benefits of plant antioxidants, probiotic bacteria and good stability. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Physicochemical and sensory properties of reduced‐fat cookies made from gluten‐free flour incorporated with glucomannan
Authors: Anggraeni Andian Ari , Triwitono Priyanto , Lestari Lily Arsanti , Harmayani Eni 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDThe food industry faces an important challenge in the reformulation of food products to reduce fat at the same time as retaining crucial properties, such as acceptable appearance, texture and mouthfeel. In the present study, a fat replacer from glucomannan was incorporated in cookies prepared from fermented cassava flour (FCF) and soy protein concentrate (SPC), and its effect on physicochemical and sensory properties was analyzed. The samples included cookies made from FCF and SPC with fat substitution levels of 0% (CS100: FCF‐SPC, 100% fat), 20% (GM80: FCF‐SPC‐medium glucomannan, 80% fat) and 30% (GH70: FCF‐SPC‐high glucomannan, 70% fat). Fat replacement in GM80 and GH70 cookies was achieved through incorporation of glucomannan and water. The cookie made from wheat flour was selected as the gold standard.RESULTSCookies with fat replacement levels of 20% (GM80) and 30% (GH70) had lower fat and higher dietary fiber content than the control samples. The addition of glucomannan improved the spread ratio of GM80 and GH70 cookies. No significant difference was observed between the sensory acceptance of GH70 and CS100 cookies in terms of aroma, texture, taste and overall acceptability (P > 0.05). In addition, no significant difference was detected in the fat taste intensity among GH70, GM80 and CS100 cookies.CONCLUSIONThe results of the present study indicate that glucomannan can be used to replace fat in cookies prepared from FCF and SPC. Glucomannan enhanced the nutritional properties of cookies. Fat replacement by glucomannan maintained the product's physical properties, sensory acceptance and fat mouthfeel. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Watch‐and‐Wait Approach Following Neoadjuvant Chemo‐Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer: A Retrospective Single‐Center Cohort Study
Authors: Kalev Georgi , Buettner Sylvia , Zhan Tianzuo , Hofheinz Ralf‐Dieter , Boda‐Heggemann Judit , Reissfelder Christoph , Seyfried Steffen , Vassilev Georgi , Hardt Julia 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackground and ObjectivesThe watch‐and‐wait (WW) strategy in patients after complete clinical response (cCR) following chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) offers the option of organ preservation. The aim of this study was to assess the oncological outcomes of WW patients treated and followed up in a German referral cancer center.MethodsIn this retrospective study, we analyzed the clinical records of consecutive patients with LARC who underwent neoadjuvant radiotherapy/chemoradiotherapy at our institution between January 2020 and December 2023 and received non‐operative management after cCR.ResultsA total of 30 patients undergoing WW for LARC were included. After a median follow‐up of 17 months (SD = 10 months), local regrowth occurred in four patients (4/30, 13.3%), and one patient (1/30, 3.3%) developed distant metastasis. No predictor for tumor regrowth could be identified based on radiological findings at diagnosis, including cT4 and/or cN2, involvement of the mesorectal fascia, extramural vascular invasion or infiltration of the anal sphincter/levator. All patients with local regrowth were successfully surgically treated (R0 resection).ConclusionNonoperative management for patients with cCR after neoadjuvant therapy for LARC proved to be safe. R0 resection was successfully achieved in all patients who underwent salvage surgery.