bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Long‐term performance monitoring of a‐Si 1200 electronic portal imaging device for dosimetric applications
Authors: Kutuzov Ivan , Rivest Ryan , VanUytven Eric , McCurdy Boyd 
Published: October 2024

AbstractPurposeRecently, dosimetri applications of the electronic portal imaging device (EPID) in radiotherapy have gained popularity. Confidence in the robust and reliable dosimetric performance of EPID detectors is essential for their clinical use. This study aimed to evaluate the dosimetric performance of the a‐Si 1200 EPID and assess the long‐term stability of its response.MethodsWeekly measurements were performed on two clinically used TrueBeam linear accelerators (linacs) equipped with a‐Si 1200 EPID detectors over a 2‐year period. They included dark and flood calibration fields, and EPID response to an open field corrected for the long‐term machine output drift measured with the secondary absolute dosimeters: an ion chamber and an ion chamber array. All measurements were performed using five photon beam energies and two imaging modes: continuous and dosimetry. The measurements were analyzed for constancy and the presence of long‐term trends. Comparisons were made between the two linacs for each beam energy. Pixel sensitivity matrices (PSM) were determined semi‐annually and analyzed for long‐term constancy for both treatment machines.ResultsThe long‐term variation of the dark and flood field signals, integrated across the EPID plane, over the entire observation period did not exceed 0.17% and 0.79%, respectively. The output‐corrected EPID response showed long‐term variation from 0.28% to 0.36%, depending on beam energy, while the short‐term variation was 0.04%–0.07% for EPID and 0.02%–0.06% for secondary dosimeters. The long‐term variation of secondary dosimeters was 0.2%–0.3%. PSMs were found to be stable to within 1% for 97.8% of pixels and 2% for 100% of pixels.ConclusionTechniques to monitor and assess the long‐term performance of the a‐Si 1200 EPID as a dosimeter were developed and implemented using two TrueBeam linacs. The long‐term variation of the EPID response was within clinical tolerance indicated in AAPM TG‐142 report, and the detector was shown to be stable and reproducible for routine clinical dosimetry.
Overlap of spike and ripple propagation onset predicts surgical outcome in epilepsy
Authors: Jahromi Saeed , Matarrese Margherita A.G. , Fabbri Lorenzo , Tamilia Eleonora , Perry M. Scott , Madsen Joseph R. , Bolton Jeffrey , Stone Scellig S.D. , Pearl Phillip L. , Papadelis Christos 
Published: October 2024

AbstractObjectiveInterictal biomarkers are critical for identifying the epileptogenic focus. However, spikes and ripples lack specificity while fast ripples lack sensitivity. These biomarkers propagate from more epileptogenic onset to areas of spread. The pathophysiological mechanism of these propagations is elusive. Here, we examine zones where spikes and high frequency oscillations co‐occur (SHFO), the spatiotemporal propagations of spikes, ripples, and fast ripples, and evaluate the spike–ripple onset overlap (SRO) as an epilepsy biomarker.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed intracranial EEG data from 41 patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy. We mapped propagations of spikes, ripples, and fast ripples, and identified their onset and spread zones, as well as SHFO and SRO. We then estimated the SRO prognostic value in predicting surgical outcome and compared it to onset and spread zones of spike, ripple, and fast ripple propagations, and SHFO.ResultsWe detected spikes and ripples in all patients and fast ripples in 12 patients (29%). We observed spike and ripple propagations in 40 (98%) patients. Spike and ripple onsets overlapped in 35 (85%) patients. In good outcome patients, SRO showed higher specificity and precision (p < 0.05) in predicting resection compared to onset and zones of spikes, ripples, and SHFO. Only SRO resection predicted outcome (p = 0.01) with positive and negative predictive values of 82% and 57%, respectively.InterpretationSRO is a specific and precise biomarker of the epileptogenic zone whose removal predicts outcome. SRO is present in most patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy. Such a biomarker may reduce prolonged intracranial monitoring and improve outcome.
Variability of cortico‐cortical evoked potentials in the epileptogenic zone is related to seizure occurrence
Authors: Feys Odile , Wens Vincent , Schuind Sophie , Rikir Estelle , Legros Benjamin , De Tiège Xavier , Gaspard Nicolas 
Published: October 2024

AbstractIntroductionCortico‐cortical evoked potentials (CCEPs) were described as reproducible during trains of single‐pulse electrical stimulations (SPES). Still, few studies described a variability of CCEPs that was higher within the epileptogenic zone (EZ). This study aimed at characterizing the relationship of CCEP variability with the occurrence of interictal/ictal epileptiform discharges at the temporal vicinity of the stimulation, but not during the stimulation, by effective connectivity modifications.MethodsWe retrospectively included 20 patients who underwent SPES during their stereo‐electroencephalography (SEEG). We analyzed the variability of CCEPs by using the post‐stimulation time course of intertrial standard deviation (amplitude) and the timing of peak amplitude signal of CCEP epochs (latency). Values were corrected for the Euclidian distance between stimulating/recording electrodes. Receiver operating characteristics curves were used to assess the relationship with the EZ. The link between CCEP variability and interictal discharges occurrence, seizure frequency prior to the SEEG recording, and number of seizures during SEEG recording was assessed with Spearman's correlations.ResultsA relationship was demonstrated between the EZ and both the distance‐corrected latency variation (area under the curve (AUC): 0.73–0.74) and the distance‐corrected amplitude variation (AUC: 0.71–0.72) and both were related with the occurrence of seizures.ConclusionSeizures before/during SEEG impact the dynamics of effective connectivity within the epileptogenic network by reducing the variability of CCEP latency/amplitude when the seizure frequency increases. It suggests a strengthening of the epileptogenic network with the occurrence of many seizures. These findings stress the importance of early epilepsy surgery at a time when the network organization has not yet been complete.
Reversible Vitrimisation of Single‐Use Plastics and their Mixtures
Authors: Png Zhuang Mao , Wang Sheng , Yeo Jayven Chee Chuan , Raveenkumar Vijayakumar , Muiruri Joseph Kinyanjui , Quek Xian Chun Nicky , Yu Xiaohui , Li Ke , Li Zibiao 
Published: October 2024

AbstractVitrimers are promising next‐generation materials, often exhibiting superior properties such as mechanical strength and solvent resistance compared to their thermoplastic counterparts, while still featuring recyclability due to their dynamic covalent crosslinks. The most common strategy to recycle vitrimers is via mechanical reprocessing at high temperatures, while others utilize chemical degradation to reobtain the constituent monomers. This work presents a new approach toward reprocessing by selectively breaking of the vitrimer's crosslinks, turning it back into a thermoplastic. This allows for reprocessing to be achieved in a more sustainable manner such as at lower temperatures and shorter times. After the desired shape has been obtained, facile re‐crosslinking turns the material into a vitrimer, with full restoration of thermal stability, mechanical properties, and gel fraction. To achieve this, a carbene C─H insertion strategy is utilized to introduce an imine‐based crosslinker into various thermoplastics and plastic mixtures to convert them into vitrimers. Properties typical of vitrimers such as a retained polymer network at high temperatures, and an Arrhenius‐type relationship between stress relaxation rate and temperature are observed, while its mechanical properties such as elongation at break and tensile toughness, particularly for plastic mixtures are significantly enhanced, first by crosslinking, then further enhanced up to 8 folds by the reversible crosslinking process.
PEDOT:PSS Films With Very High Thermoelectric Properties Through Water‐Swollen Assisted Reduction With a Tetrakis(dimethylamino)ethylene Solution
Authors: Xu Yichen , Sun Wen , Chen Zhijun , Ouyang Jianyong 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThermoelectric (TE) materials have attracted significant attention because they can be used to directly harvest waste heat into electricity. Organic TE materials like poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) have advantages including high mechanical flexibility, low cost, and low intrinsic thermal conductivity. However, their TE properties are notably inferior to their inorganic counterparts. Here, PEDOT:PSS films with very high thermoelectric properties through the sequential treatments with H2SO4, water, and ethanol solution of tetrakis(dimethylamino)ethylene (TDAE) are reported for the first time. The PEDOT:PSS films can exhibit a Seebeck coefficient of 58.2 µV K−1 and electrical conductivity of 1552 S cm−1, and the corresponding power factor is 526 µW m−1 K−2. The water treatment prior to the TDAE solution treatment is crucial for the high TE properties of PEDOT:PSS films. Without the water treatment, the control PEDOT:PSS films exhibit a Seebeck coefficient of only 32.4 µV K−1 and electrical conductivity of 1124 S cm−1, and the corresponding power factor is only 118 µW m−1 K−2. The effect of the water treatment on the Seebeck coefficient is attributed to the swelling of PEDOT:PSS films, which facilitates the penetration of TDAE from solution into the polymer films and thus the reduction of PEDOT:PSS.
Breast Cancer Bone Metastasis Therapy and Tumor‐Associated Bone Destruction Repair by Versatile Semiconducting Nanointegrators with X‐Ray Adjuvant
Authors: Zhang Yijing , Liu Yue , Li Zichao , Zhang Qin , Li Jingchao 
Published: October 2024

AbstractTumor progress and tumor‐associated osteolysis are two key issues of breast cancer bone metastasis, which makes it challenging for bone metastasis treatment. To settle these two issues concurrently, a versatile semiconducting nanointegrator (termed as SPNCpG/Ca) containing semiconducting polymer nanoparticle (SPN), Ca2+ and cytosine‐phosphate‐guanine (CpG) oligonucleotides conjugated on the surface via a singlet oxygen (1O2)‐responsive linker, is designed. The antitumor effect can be triggered with X‐ray irradiation as an adjuvant, in which SPN works as a radiosensitizer to produce 1O2 for radiotherapy and controlled release of CpG via disrupting 1O2‐responsive linkers. The Ca2+ accumulation via SPNCpG/Ca delivering causes tumor cell death and the released CpG activates immune response to realize immunotherapy. The combinational action of radiotherapy, Ca2+ overloading, and immunotherapy results in complete clearance of metastatic tumor cells in 4T1 breast cancer‐based bone metastasis mouse models. Furthermore, Ca2+ can accelerate osteogenesis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells while CpG inhibits osteoclast differentiation in the bone metastasis microenvironment to alleviate osteolysis, which synergistically contributes to repair of tumor‐associated bone destruction. SPNCpG/Ca represents a versatile therapeutic nanosystem with the abilities to treat bone metastasis and repair tumor‐associated bone destruction, providing a new tactic for bone metastasis therapy.
High‐Stability Hybrid Antimony Halides for Thermometry in Power System Component or Circuit Monitoring
Authors: Liu Kunjie , Hou An , Lin Jiawei , Quan Mingzhen , Xiong Yan , Guo Zhongnan , Zhao Jing , Liu Quanlin 
Published: October 2024

AbstractOrganic–inorganic metal halides (OIMHs) possess low preparation costs and high photoluminescence quantum yield. Within a specific range, the temperature‐dependent nature of OIMHs' luminescent lifetime facilitates temperature sensing and thermal imaging functionalities. In this study, a non‐toxic (C10H22N)6SbBr9·H2O ([C10H22N]+ is 4‐(tert‐buty)cyclohexanamine cation) with a 0D structure crystallized in the Pbcn space group is obtained. Under blue light excitation at room temperature, it demonstrates intense broad emission centered at 635 nm. Further investigation into the correlation between temperature and photoluminescence lifetime has unveiled exceptional temperature sensing precision. The relative sensitivities within the range of power system temperature alert 30–70 °C lie between 2.5% and 4.5% K−1. This matches the typical high‐temperature warning threshold for power systems. Moreover, after immersion in water and alcohol, the compound maintains remarkable stability, with multiple heating/cooling cycles confirming its reliability under test temperatures. Additionally, a composite thin‐film device composed of (C10H22N)6SbBr9·H2O, showcasing its potential as a stable and durable thermal imaging temperature sensing device is fabricated.
Hydrogen Spillover Mechanism of Superaerophobic NiSe2‐Ni5P4 Electrocatalyst to Promote Hydrogen Evolution in Saline Water
Authors: Jiang Jiahui , Xu Guancheng , Gong Bingbing , Zhu Jingjing , Wang Weiwei , Zhao Ting , Feng Yuying , Wu Qihao , Liu Shuai , Zhang Li 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe hydrogen spillover mechanism of metal‐supported electrocatalyst can significantly improve HER activity. However, the rational design of binary heterojunction hydrogen spillover electrocatalysts remains a challenge. Here, a NiSe2‐Ni5P4 heterojunction electrocatalyst with superaerophobic structure is synthesized by using a simple substrate self‐derived strategy. Experimental characterization and theoretical calculation reveal the hydrogen spillover mechanism of NiSe2‐Ni5P4 heterogeneous electrocatalyst. NiSe2 and Ni5P4 synergistically promote the adsorption/dissociation of H2O and the adsorption of H*, respectively. The smaller ΔΦ effectively reduced the electron density at the interface, weakening the proton adsorption at the interface and promoting the migration of H* from NiSe2 to Ni5P4. The NiSe2‐Ni5P4 exhibits excellent HER activity in alkaline electrolyte, requiring only a potential of 65, 270 mV to achieve a current density of 10, 500 mA cm−2, respectively, and a stability of up to 200 h. Moreover, the design of NiSe2‐Ni5P4 with superaerophobic structure can reduce the deposition of impurity ions on the electrode surface and avoid Cl− corrosion of the electrode, which results in NiSe2‐Ni5P4 showing better HER activity and stability than commercial Pt/C in brackish water. This study deepens the understanding of hydrogen spillover mechanism of binary heterojunction electrocatalysts, broadens the application of hydrogen production in complex water quality.
Lignin‐Based Ultrathin Hydrogel Coatings with Strong Substrate Adhesion Enabled by Hydrophobic Association
Authors: Liu Xuan , Zhang Hui Jie , Xi Shuangshuang , Zhang Yifan , Rao Ping , You Xiangyu , Qu Shaoxing 
Published: October 2024

AbstractHydrogel coatings are crucial strategies for integrating substrates with functional surfaces. Hydrogel coating with a facile coating process, high toughness, and ultrathin thickness is highly desired. This study utilizes the self‐assembly of hydrophobic lignin into chain‐dense regions during solvent evaporation and constructed a hydrogel coating with Janus structure from hydrophilic polymer and hydrophobic lignin through a facile coating‐drying‐swelling process at room temperature (25 °C). The Janus structure formed as the hydrophobic lignin‐aggregated regions remained at the bottom while the hydrophilic polymer swell at the top. The lignin‐aggregated regions constrained the swelling of the hydrogel coating, allowing for an ultrathin coating layer of ≈8 µm. Additionally, the lignin‐aggregated region increases the stiffness and toughness of the thin hydrogel coating film by establishing strong interfacial bonding with the substrate via dense Van der Waals forces, thereby increasing overall adhesion energy with thin thickness and to various substrates such as glass, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), metal, and rubber. The hydration layer is formed by the hydrophilic polymer swollen on top, which improves lubrication and antifouling properties. Furthermore, the hydrogel coating exhibits high stability in water and saline solutions, ultraviolet shielding properties, and the ability to be removed and recycled after use.
Micro/Nanorobots for Advanced Light‐Based Biosensing and Imaging
Authors: Neettiyath Aparna , Pumera Martin 
Published: October 2024

AbstractSensing and imaging of biomolecules are crucial to disease diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy where optical techniques have essential utility. Untethered and remotely controlled micro/nanorobots have shown promising sensing and imaging capabilities, especially in complex biological environments. In this review, how micro/nanorobots are used for optical biosensing and imaging while highlighting the significant developments in the field is discussed. Starting is done by exploring colorimetric biosensing methods enabled by micro/nanorobots. Significant advancements in surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy‐integrated micro/nanorobots are reviewed. Further, state‐of‐the‐art optical bio‐imaging applications by micro/nanorobots at in vitro intracellular level are highlighted. Novel in vivo bio‐imaging assisted by optical micro/nanorobot sensors is examined. Furthermore, innovations in micro/nanorobots are assessed where motion augmentation is used as a detection mechanism, with applications in point‐of‐care molecular diagnostics. Finally, the challenges associated with micro/nanorobots‐assisted advanced optical biosensing and imaging while discussing insights about potential research directions for this rapidly progressing field are summarized.
Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Reversal of Sulfonated Di‐ and Triblock Copolymers as Novel Parenteral Anticoagulants
Authors: Swieton Justyna , Miklosz Joanna , Bielicka Natalia , Frackiewicz Aleksandra , Depczynski Karol , Stolarek Marta , Bonarek Piotr , Kaminski Kamil , Rozga Piotr , Yusa Shin‐Ichi , Gromotowicz‐Poplawska Anna , Szczubialka Krzysztof , Pawlak Dariusz , Mogielnicki Andrzej , Kalaska Bartlomiej 
Published: October 2024

AbstractDespite targeting different coagulation cascade sites, all Food and Drug Administration‐approved anticoagulants present an elevated risk of bleeding, including potentially life‐threatening intracranial hemorrhage. Existing studies have not thoroughly investigated the efficacy and safety of sulfonate polymers in animal models and fully elucidate the precise mechanisms by which these polymers act. The activity and safety of sulfonated di‐ and triblock copolymers containing poly(sodium styrenesulfonate) (PSSS), poly(sodium 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropanesulfonate) (PAMPS), poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), poly(sodium methacrylate) (PMAAS), poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), and poly(sodium 11‐acrylamidoundecanoate) (PAaU) blocks are synthesized and assessed. PSSS‐based copolymers exhibit greater anticoagulant activity than PAMPS‐based ones. Their activity is mainly affected by the total concentration of sulfonate groups and molecular weight. PEG‐containing copolymers demonstrate a better safety profile than PAA‐containing ones. The selected copolymer PEG47‐PSSS32 exhibits potent anticoagulant activity in rodents after subcutaneous and intravenous administration. Heparin Binding Copolymer (HBC) completely reverses the anticoagulant activity of polymer in rat and human plasma. No interaction with platelets is observed. Selected copolymer targets mainly factor XII and fibrinogen, and to a lesser extent factors X, IX, VIII, and II, suggesting potential application in blood‐contacting biomaterials for anticoagulation purposes. Further studies are needed to explore its therapeutic applications fully.
Development of a Microfluidic Vascularized Osteochondral Model as a Drug Testing Platform for Osteoarthritis
Authors: Salehi Shima , Brambilla Stefania , Rasponi Marco , Lopa Silvia , Moretti Matteo 
Published: October 2024

AbstractOsteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by changes in cartilage and subchondral bone. To date, there are no available drugs that can counteract the progression of OA, partly due to the inadequacy of current models to recapitulate the relevant cellular complexity. In this study, an osteochondral microfluidic model is developed using human primary cells to mimic an OA‐like microenvironment and this study validates it as a drug testing platform. In the model, the cartilage compartment is created by embedding articular chondrocytes in fibrin hydrogel while the bone compartment is obtained by embedding osteoblasts, osteoclasts, endothelial cells, and mesenchymal stem cells in a fibrin hydrogel enriched with calcium phosphate nanoparticles. After developing and characterizing the model, Interleukin‐1β is applied to induce OA‐like conditions. Subsequently, the model potential is evaluated as a drug testing platform by assessing the effect of two anti‐inflammatory drugs (Interleukin‐1 Receptor antagonist and Celecoxib) on the regulation of inflammation‐ and matrix degradation‐related markers. The model responded to inflammation and demonstrated differences in drug efficacy. Finally, it compares the behavior of the “Cartilage” and “Cartilage+Bone” models, emphasizing the necessity of incorporating both cartilage and bone compartments to capture the complex pathophysiology of OA.
Indirect‐To‐Direct Bandgap Crossover and Room‐Temperature Valley Polarization of Multilayer MoS2 Achieved by Electrochemical Intercalation
Authors: Jo Min‐kyung , Lee Eunji , Moon Eoram , Jang Bo Gyu , Kim Jeongtae , Dhakal Krishna Prasad , Oh Saeyoung , Cho Seong Rae , Hasanah Nurul , Yang Seungmo , Jeong Hu Young , Kim Jeongyong , Kang Kibum , Song Seungwoo 
Published: October 2024

AbstractMonolayer (1L) group VI transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) exhibit broken inversion symmetry and strong spin‐orbit coupling, offering promising applications in optoelectronics and valleytronics. Despite their direct bandgap, high absorption coefficient, and spin‐valley locking in K or K’ valleys, the ultra‐short valley lifetime limits their room‐temperature applications. In contrast, multilayer TMDs, with more absorptive layers, sacrifice the direct bandgap and valley polarization upon gaining inversion symmetry from the bilayer structure. Here, we demonstrate that multilayer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) can maintain 1) a structure with broken inversion symmetry and strong spin‐orbit coupling, 2) a direct bandgap with high photoluminescence (PL) intensity, and 3) stable valley polarization up to room temperature. Through the intercalation of organic 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium (EMIM+) ions, multilayer MoS2 not only exhibits layer decoupling but also benefits from an electron doping effect. This results in a hundredfold increase in PL intensity and stable valley polarization, achieving 55% and 16% degrees of valley polarization at 3 K and room temperature, respectively. The persistent valley polarization at room temperature, due to interlayer decoupling and trion dominance facilitated by a gate‐free method, opens up potential applications in valley‐selective optoelectronics and valley transistors.