bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Design of Albumin‐Coated Microbubbles Loaded With Polylactide Nanoparticles
Authors: Gauthier Marianne , Yin Qian , Cheng Jianjun , O'Brien William D. 
Published: July 2015

ObjectivesA protocol was designed to produce albumin‐coated microbubbles (MBs) loaded with functionalized polylactide (PLA) nanoparticles (NPs) for future drug delivery studies.MethodsMicrobubbles resulted from the sonication of 5% bovine serum albumin and 15% dextrose solution. Functionalized NPs were produced by mixing fluorescent PLA and PLA‐polyethylene glycol‐carboxylate conjugates. Nanoparticle‐loaded MBs resulted from the covalent conjugation of functionalized NPs and MBs. Three NP/MB volume ratios (1/1, 1/10, and 1/100) and unloaded MBs were produced and compared. Statistical evaluations were based on quantitative analysis of 3 parameters at 4 time points (1, 4, 5, and 6 days post MB fabrication): MB diameter using a circle detection routine based on the Hough transform, MB number density using a hemocytometer, and NP‐loading yield based on MB counts from fluorescence and light microscopic images. Loading capacity of the albumin‐coated MBs was evaluated by fluorescence.ResultsLoaded MB sizes were stable over 6 days after production and were not significantly different from that of time‐matched unloaded MBs. Number density evaluation showed that only 1/1 NP/MB volume ratio and unloaded MB number densities were stable over time, and that the 1/1 MB number density evaluated at each time point was not significantly different from that of unloaded MBs. The 1/10 and 1/100 NP/MB volume ratios had unstable number densities that were significantly different from that of unloaded MBs (P < .05). Fluorescence evaluation suggested that 1/1 MBs had a higher NP‐loading yield than 1/10 and 1/100 MBs. Quantitative loading evaluation suggested that the 1/1 MBs had a loading capacity of 3700 NPs/MB.ConclusionsA protocol was developed to load albumin MBs with functionalized PLA NPs for further drug delivery studies. The 1/1 NP/MB volume ratio appeared to be the most efficient to produce stable loaded MBs with a loading capacity of 3700 NPs/MB.
Transabdominal Sonographic Study of the Cavum Vergae Detection Rate in Healthy Third‐Trimester Fetuses
Authors: Unal Ozlem , Ipek Ali , Keskin H. Levent , Idilman Ilkay , Cay Nurdan , Balaban Mehtap 
Published: July 2015

ObjectivesWe aimed to measure the thickness and volume of the cavum vergae by sonography in fetuses at gestational ages of 25 to 41 weeks to determine the relationship of cavum vergae thickness and volume with gestational age and biparietal diameter and to estimate the rate of cavum vergae closure in relation to gestational age.MethodsA total of 336 patients in their third trimester of pregnancy had transabdominal sonography. The fetal cavum vergae was scanned in the coronal and axial planes. The thickness of the anteroposterior diameter of the cavum vergae and the largest inner surface were measured after marking the internal borders of the structure, and then longitudinal and vertical sizes were obtained. The values obtained were multiplied by each other and then by 0.52 to obtain the cavum vergae volume.ResultsIn 55 of 322 cases, the cavum vergae volume and thickness could not be calculated because the cavum vergae was closed. In the remaining cases, the cavum vergae volume and thickness and biparietal diameter were measured. Although the degree of correlation between cavum vergae thickness and volume increased with increasing gestational age, there was no correlation between cavum vergae thickness and volume at 37 to 41 weeks. There was a positive but weak statistically significant correlation between biparietal diameter and cavum vergae volume (P= .05), but there was no statistically significant correlation between biparietal diameter and cavum vergae thickness. The cavum vergae closure rate increased significantly as gestational age increased (P < .001).ConclusionsCavum vergae closure increases as gestational age increases. However, we did not find any relationships between cavum vergae thickness and volume, gestational age, and biparietal diameter.
Head and Neck Ultrasound Education—A Multimodal Educational Approach in the Predoctoral Setting
Authors: Bernard Stewart , Richardson Clare , Hamann Carsten R. , Lee Steve , Dinh Vi Am 
Published: July 2015

ObjectivesWith the increased implementation of ultrasound in medical education, it is important to continually improve instructional methods. In this study, we demonstrate that by augmenting the traditional methods of instructor demonstration and student practice on a healthy volunteer with additional modalities, such as didactic presentation, simulated pathologic cases, and simulated procedures, students gain a more comprehensive understanding of and confidence in ultrasound technique and pathology.MethodsA multimodal curriculum was developed and applied to head and neck ultrasound sessions of our institution's Ultrasound Symposium. Participants were asked to fill out surveys rating each instructional modality as well as preinstructional and postinstructional confidence. The survey results were divided into a group of first‐ and second‐year medical students who had previous ultrasound training and a group of third‐ and fourth‐year students who were ultrasound “naïve.”ResultsThe survey showed that the first‐ and second‐year student group (n = 8) had an average preinstructional confidence of 4.14/10 compared to 1.44/10 in the third‐ and fourth‐year student group (n = 9) (P = .003). Following the instructional sessions, the students' confidence increased respectively to 8.14/10 and 7.78/10 (P= .53), showing a 4.00 (96%) increase in the first‐ and second‐year group and a 6.34 (440%) increase in the third‐ and fourth‐year group. The combined results of all student teaching modality ratings showed that instructor demonstration was rated the highest (9.47) and computerized simulation lowest (8.25).ConclusionsOverall, our study shows that multimodal ultrasound instruction was beneficial in increasing both ultrasound‐trained and ultrasound‐naïve medical students' confidence in head and neck ultrasound.
Sonographic Features of Superficial‐Type Nodular Fasciitis in the Musculoskeletal System
Authors: Lee Kyung Jin , Jin Wook , Kim Gou Young , Rhee Sun Jung , Park So Young , Park Ji Seon , Ryu Kyung Nam 
Published: July 2015

ObjectivesWe evaluated the sonographic features of superficial‐type nodular fasciitis in 9 pathologically proven cases.MethodsReview of the radiology and pathology databases yielded 14 cases of histologically proven superficial‐type nodular fasciitis, which was defined as nodular fasciitis located in the subcutaneous fat layer or outer muscle fascia between the subcutaneous fat layer and muscle. Sonograms were available in 9 patients. Two musculoskeletal radiologists retrospectively reviewed all cases in consensus. Imaging features evaluated included the fasciitis location in the body, size, relationship with the fascia, echogenicity, vascularity, and location of the center.ResultsThere were 4 male and 5 female patients. The mean age was 35 years (range, 8–49 years). The masses ranged in size from 0.8 to 2 cm, with 90% measuring less than 1.8 cm. Five masses developed in the forearm (4 cases) or elbow (1 case). Six masses were located in the subcutaneous fat layer, and 3 masses were in the fascia. Seven masses were in direct contact with the outer muscle fascia, whereas 2 masses were indistinctly in contact with the fascia. These masses showed a hypoechoic background with echogenic foci or peripheral hyperechoic nodules. In all 3 of the masses within the fascia, the findings were similar to those of neurogenic tumors. The vascularity of the masses was variable, but most (7 of 9 cases) showed no substantial vascularity. All masses had centers of less than half the thickness of the subcutaneous fat layer.ConclusionsSuperficial‐type nodular fasciitis is often located in the deep subcutaneous fat near the muscle fascia, has a hypoechoic appearance with echogenic foci or peripheral hyperechoic nodules, and quite often does not show internal vascular flow. If a superficial soft tissue mass has the above findings, superficial‐type nodular fasciitis should be included in the differential diagnosis.
Training to Increase Minority Enrollment in Lupus Clinical Trials With Community Engagement: Enhancing Lupus Clinical Trial Recruitment Through Provider and Community Health Worker Engagement
Authors: Sheikh Saira Z. , Englund Tessa , Simkus Andrew , Wanty Nicole , McNeill Annie , Holtz Kristen , Hood Tenesha , Blanks Starla , Allen Maria , Holben Katherine , Anandarajah Allen 
Published: August 2024

ObjectiveThis study evaluates the effectiveness of the Training to Increase Minority Enrollment in Lupus Clinical Trials with Community Engagement (TIMELY) program on enhancing referrals of underrepresented patients to lupus clinical trials. TIMELY leverages two existing American College of Rheumatology online educational initiatives: Materials to Increase Minority Involvement in Clinical Trials (MIMICT), a continuing medical education activity for health care providers, and the community health worker (CHW) Lupus Clinical Trials Training (LuCTT). TIMELY introduced a unique roundtable meeting format to build on the existing online educational programs and facilitate discussions between local clinical trial sites and provider and CHW participants.MethodsThis study used an online pretest and posttest design to assess changes in theory‐based behavioral predictors of lupus clinical trial referrals and engagement (ie, knowledge, attitudes, self‐efficacy, and intentions) among providers and CHWs. Participants completed MIMICT or LuCTT and then were eligible to participate in roundtable meetings. Paired t‐tests were used to assess changes in composite scores before and after the intervention for each of the outcomes.ResultsThe final sample included 40 providers and 18 CHWs. Knowledge scores increased significantly for both providers (P < 0.01) and CHWs (P < 0.001) on completion of MIMICT and LuCTT, respectively. After participating in the TIMELY roundtable, providers’ composite scores for self‐efficacy and intentions significantly increased (P < 0.001). Provider self‐efficacy gains were sustained at three months’ follow‐up (P < 0.001).ConclusionThese promising findings highlight the potential and opportunities for the TIMELY program to improve behavioral predictors of trial referrals, including CHW knowledge and providers’ knowledge, self‐efficacy, and intentions to refer underrepresented patients to lupus clinical trials.
Metamaterial‐Based Electronic Skin with Conformality and Multisensory Integration
Authors: Li Nan , Liu Liwu , Liu Yanju , Leng Jinsong 
Published: August 2024

AbstractMechanical metamaterials (MMs) receive widespread attention due to their unprecedented mechanical properties. However, in the next‐generation MMs, the cognitive function of information processing can be realized while maintaining superior mechanical properties. Herein, a mechanical metamaterial‐based self‐powered electronic skin (e‐skin) with multimodal fusion perception capability and shape memory reconfigurability is proposed. Benefiting from an MM skeleton and its analytical model, e‐skin realizes biomimetic nonlinear mechanical behavior and mechanical reconfigurability to imitate target biotissues. Its integrated perovskite‐based elastic sensors enable high‐precision collection of physiological movements and auditory, tactile, and precontact distance signals. Further, by imitating the integration and interaction functions in biological multisensory neural networks, the system achieves advanced cognitive functions of acquiring, identifying, and integrating information across modalities. Applications of e‐skin are demonstrated in motion monitoring, speech recognition, and somatosensory game operation. These capabilities can be applied to cross‐modal perception robot systems based on multisensory neural networks.
Electron Rich Guest Regulated Enhanced CO2 Reduction in a Multivariate Porous Coordination Polymer
Authors: Jena Rohan , Rahimi Faruk Ahamed , Karmakar Sanchita , Dey Anupam , Kalita Daizy , Das Tarak Nath , Maji Tapas Kumar 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe need for carbon‐neutralization technologies has prompted significant interest in developing materials for CO2 reduction. Donor–acceptor (D–A) based flexible porous coordination polymers {[Zn(o‐phen)(ndc)].(guest)}n, (guest = anthracene = 1‐Ant, and pyrene = 1‐Pyr) are reported as photocatalysts for CO2RR, yielding higher order CH4 product. Electron‐rich anthracene (Ant) and pyrene (Pyr) guests are confined within nanopores, forming D–A charge transfer (CT) complexes with o‐phen ligand of the host. CT interaction enhances visible light absorption and modulates excitonic properties of the photocatalyst by electronic push‐pull effect (exciton binding energy 87 meV for 1‐Ant and 104 meV for 1‐Pyr). Electron donation capability varies from Pyr to Ant, affecting catalytic properties; 1‐Ant yields 1.24 mmolg−1 of CH4 (0.47 mmolg−1 for 1‐Pyr) with CO as minor product. A mixed‐metal multivariate PCP {[Zn0.55Co0.45(o‐phen)(ndc)].(Ant)}n, (1′‐Ant) prepared based on solid‐solution approach by substituting Zn(II) with redox‐active Co(II) enhances CH4 production (2.79 mmolg−1, ≈94% selectivity). D–A CT complex harvests visible light and channels electrons to Co(II) for CO2RR. In situ DRIFTS and theoretical studies elucidate Co(II) site's role in CO2 binding and stabilizing reaction intermediates. This work underscores guest‐modulated electron transfer in PCPs for tailoring catalytic properties by introducing a redox‐active metal in a multivariate approach.
Convert Polymer Self‐Assembly Nanostructures into Target Functional Materials: An Art of Embattling Molecules
Authors: Zhao Zhi , Zheng Xiaotong , Li Yurong , Yao Xuan , Wang Haibin , Song Xiaoyan 
Published: August 2024

AbstractMaterial design based on the assembly of functional units has demonstrated tremendous technical and commercial potential. Among others, polymers are identified to be an ideal building block due to their abundant functional groups, high programmability, and great biocompatibility. In this review, introducing recently developed advanced materials enabled by rationally designed polymer self‐assembly are focussed. The working principle of typical intermolecular interactions to shape nano‐patterns and structural heterogeneity is first explained in detail. Following that, methods to prepare advanced materials and their characteristic properties are discussed. The superior performance of polymer assemblies renders numerous potential applications in ultra‐tough devices, soft robotics, electronics, sensors, and biomedicine. A brief account of representative examples is highlighted and a perspective on this field is provided at the end.
Novel Nano Drug‐Loaded Hydrogel Coatings for the Prevention and Treatment of CAUTI
Authors: Wu Jibin , Yan Jianling , Xu Sijia , Zou Xuan , Xu Yinghua , Jin Xiaobao , Lu Xuemei , Gui Shuiqing 
Published: August 2024

AbstractCatheter‐associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) is a prevalent type of hospital‐acquired infection, affecting approximately 15% to 25% of patients with urinary catheters. Long‐term use of the catheter can lead to colonization of microorganisms and biofilm formation, and may develop into bacterial CAUTI. However, the frequent replacement of catheters in clinical settings can result in tissue damage, inflammation, ulceration, and additional complications, causing discomfort and pain for patients. In light of these challenges, a novel nanodrug‐supported hydrogel coating called NP‐AM/FK@OMV‐P/H has been developed in this study. Through in vitro experiments, it is confirmed that OMV nano‐loaded liquid gel coating has an effective reaction against E.coli HAase and releases antibacterial drugs. This coating has also demonstrated strong inhibition of E.coli and has shown the ability to inhibit the formation of bacterial biofilm. These findings highlight the potential of the OMV nanoparticle gel coating in preventing and treating bacterial infections. Notably, NP‐AM/FK@OMV‐P/H has exhibited greater efficacy against multidrug‐resistant E.coli associated with UTIs compared to coatings containing single antimicrobial peptides or antibiotics. Additionally, it has demonstrated good biosecurity. In conclusion, the NP‐AM/FK@OMV‐P/H coating holds great potential in providing benefits to patients with CAUTI.
Tofacitinib Citrate Coordination‐Based Dual‐Responsive/Scavenge Nanoplatform Toward Regulate Colonic Inflammatory Microenvironment for Relieving Colitis
Authors: Zou Jiafeng , Jiang Kun , Chen You , Ma Ying , Xia Chuanhe , Ding Wenxing , Yao Min , Lin Yiting , Chen Yanzuo , Zhao Yuzheng , Gao Feng 
Published: August 2024

AbstractUlcerative colitis is an inflammation of the colon characterized by immune dysregulation and intestinal inflammation. Developing safe oral nanomedicines that suppress intestinal inflammation, while modulating colonic inflammatory microenvironment by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is crucial for the effective treatment of colitis. Here, the tofacitinib citrate and copper coordination‐based nanoparticle (TF‐Cu nanoparticle, T‐C) to dual‐scavenge ROS and H2S by coordination competition is synthesized. Moreover, the coordination of T‐C using computer simulation is explored. To enhance the acid stability and inflammatory targeting of T‐C, it is encapsulated with hyaluronic acid‐modified chitosan, along with a calcium pectinate coating (T‐C@HP). Owing to the dual pH/pectinase‐responsive characteristics of T‐C@HP, the nanoplatform can target inflamed colonic lesions, inhibiting phosphorylated Janus kinase 1. Furthermore, T‐C@HP scavenges ROS and H2S, as well as increases NADPH levels, which is investigated by combining biosensor (HyPer7 and iNap1/c) and chemical probes. T‐C@HP also alleviates colitis by regulating the colonic inflammatory microenvironment through multiple processes, including the modulation of apoptosis, macrophage polarization, tight junction, mucus layer, and intestinal flora. Complemented by satisfactory anti‐inflammatory and biosafety results, this nanoplatform represents a promising, effective, and safe treatment option for colitis patients.
Advancing Single‐Particle Analysis in Synthetic Chemical Systems: A Forward‐Looking Discussion
Authors: Zhang Hui , Li Xiaopeng , Liu Jiang , Lan Ya‐Qian , Han Yu 
Published: August 2024

AbstractSingle‐particle analysis (SPA) is a fundamental method of cryo‐electron microscopy developed to resolve the structures of biological macromolecules. This method has seen significant success in structural biology, yet its potential applications in synthetic chemical systems remain underexplored. In this perspective article, SPA and associated electron microscopy techniques are first briefly introduced. It is then proposed that SPA is well‐suited for structural analysis of chemical systems where discrete, identical macromolecules can be readily obtained. Applicable systems include various clusters such as coinage metal clusters, metal‐oxo/sulfur clusters, metal–organic clusters, and supramolecular compounds like coordination cages and metallo‐supramolecular cages. When high‐quality large single crystals are unattainable, SPA provides an alternative method for determining their structures. Beyond these end products, it is suggested that SPA can be instrumental in studying synthetic intermediates of materials with specific building units, such as metal–organic frameworks and zeolites. Given that various intermediates coexist in the reaction system, a purification step is necessary before conducting SPA, which can be facilitated by soft‐landing electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.
Highly Sensitive Glucose Sensors Based on Gated Graphene Microwave Waveguides
Authors: Gubeljak Patrik , Xu Tianhui , Wlodarczyk Jan , Eustace William , Burton Oliver J. , Hofmann Stephan , Malliaras George G. , Lombardo Antonio 
Published: August 2024

AbstractA novel approach is demonstrated to identify glucose concentration in aqueous solutions based on the combined effect of its frequency‐dependent interaction with microwaves propagating in graphene channels and the modification of graphene radio frequency (RF) conductivity caused by physisorbed molecules. This approach combines broadband microwave sensing and chemical field effect transistor sensing in a single device, leading to information‐rich, multidimensional datasets in the form of scattering parameters. A sensitivity of 7.30 dB(mg/L)−1 is achieved, significantly higher than metallic state‐of‐the‐art RF sensors. Different machine learning methods are applied to the raw, multidimensional datasets to infer concentrations of the analyte, without the need for parasitic effect removals via de‐embedding or circuit modeling, and a classification accuracy of 100% is achieved for aqueous glucose solutions with a concentration variation of 0.09 mgL−1.
Does duckweed (Lemna minor) feed inclusion play a role on growth, feed conversion ratio and reproductive performance (fertilization, hatchability and survivability rates) in omnivorous fish? Evidence in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus‐Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Achoki Judith Kemunto , Kaingu Catherine Kaluwa , Oduma Jemimah Achieng’ , Orina Paul Sagwe , Ondiba Robert Nyakwama , Nyabwanga Robert Nyamao , Getabu Albert Mochache 
Published: August 2024

AbstractFish feed production is fraught with high costs due to the inclusion of expensive fishmeal and animal proteins that can be sourced from aquatic macrophytes. Limited attempts have been made on use of the latter for fish feed production. Further, the quality of feed given to fish is known to affect its growth and reproductive performance. Role of feeds containing duckweed (Lemna minor) at 0%‐control feed, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% inclusion levels on growth and reproductive performance of Oreochromis niloticus of size 18 ± 1 g were evaluated for 12 weeks. The fish were fed twice daily at 10% body weight at 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. Length–weight measurements were done fortnightly using a measuring board and a weighing balance, respectively. Female mouth‐brooding fish were used to evaluate reproductive performance indicators, namely %: fertilization, hatchability and survivability. Data were subjected to one‐way analysis of variance followed by post hoc and polynomial orthogonal analysis to identify L. minor diets with significant differences (p < 0.05). Fish fed on a diet containing 10% L. minor inclusion showed significantly better growth performance and feed conversion ratio than those fed on the control diet. All L. minor diets gave good fish condition factors above 1.0. Fish fed on a diet containing 10% L. minor and those fed on the control gave reasonably high survival rates of 85.55% and 83.33%, respectively, whereas those fed on 20% L. minor produced the same growth performance as control. Orthogonal polynomial analysis for the final weights across the L. minor diets – 0%–25% – showed a cubic polynomial model (p = 0.000), whereas final lengths portrayed a linear inverse significant relationship (p < 0.05). Inclusion of L. minor in the diets resulted to slightly better fertilization, hatchability and survivability rates at 10%, 20% and 15%, respectively. In conclusion, inclusion of L. minor from 10% to 20% in fish feeds is recommended for enhancing growth and reproductive performance of O. niloticus.