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As one of the most successful platforms of quantum control, trapped ions can be modulated by sequential microwave pulses to realize high-fidelity quantum logic gates, and dephasing noise may lead to invalidation of phase locking. In this work, we utilize the Dirac–Frenkel time-dependent variational approach with Davydov ansatz to simulate spin echo dynamics in the framework of spin-boson model. As the essential modulation parameters, pulse duration and waiting time have been comprehensively investigated to optimize the phase gates by two microwave pulses. We find that, as spin orientation undergoes periodic changes, the phase difference by acting one and two pulses exhibits spontaneous locking following time evolution, which indicates the robustness of the quantum phase gates. Spectrum of the environmental noise that is appropriate for the phase locking is also determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-level quantum systems are fundamental physical models that continue to attract growing interest due to their crucial role as a building block of quantum technologies. The exact analytical solution of the dynamics of these systems is central to control theory and its applications, such as that to quantum computing. In this study, we reconsider the two-state charge transfer problem by extending and using a methodology developed to study (pseudo)spin systems in quantum electrodynamics contexts. This approach allows us to build a time evolution operator for the charge transfer system and to show new opportunities for the coherent control of the system dynamics, with a particular emphasis on the critical dynamic region around the transition state coordinate, where the avoided crossing of the energy levels occurs. We identify and propose possible experimental implementations of a class of rotations of the charge donor (or acceptor) that endow the electronic coupling matrix element with a time-dependent phase that can be employed to realize controllable coherent dynamics of the system across the avoided level crossing. The analogy of these rotations to reference frame rotations in generalized semiclassical Rabi models is discussed. We also show that the physical rotations in the charge-transfer systems can be performed so as to implement quantum gates relevant to quantum computing. From an exquisitely physical–mathematical viewpoint, our approach brings to light situations in which the time-dependent state of the system can be obtained without resorting to the special functions appearing in the Landau–Zener approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum Dot Cellular Automata (QCA) and reversible logic have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional CMOS technology, offering several advantages, such as ultra-dense structures and ultra-low-power consumption. Among the crucial components of processors, the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) has witnessed significant advancements in reversible computing, leading to energy-efficient and high-speed computing systems, particularly beneficial for Digital Signal Processing (DSP) applications. Conventional ALUs, reliant on irreversible logic, encounter energy inefficiencies due to information loss during computations, resulting in increased power consumption. Moreover, they may face limitations in processing speed, impacting real-time processing capabilities, especially for complex DSP tasks involving intensive arithmetic and logic operations. In response to these challenges, a research paper presents a pioneering approach, proposing a novel reversible ALU design using QCA nanotechnology. The proposed design ingeniously incorporates Modified Fredkin (MF) gates, and a coplanar reversible full adder based on the HNG gate, skillfully leveraging the unique features of QCA nanotechnology to optimize the ALU's energy-efficient and high-speed performance for DSP applications. This revolutionary QCA reversible ALU comprises 330 QCA cells arranged in a compact 0.41 μm2 area, skillfully realized through the coplanar clock-zone-based crossover approach. Its core computational elements, the three MF gates, and the innovative coplanar reversible full adder empower the ALU to execute a remarkable array of 20 distinct arithmetic and logic operations, showcasing its versatility in handling diverse DSP tasks. The proposed structure undergoes extensive simulations utilizing QCADesigner version 2.0.3 to confirm its performance. The evaluation results manifest substantial improvements compared to previous designs, boasting a 30% reduction in area occupancy, a 20% decrement in cell count, a 10% reduction in latency, and a 10% decrease in quantum cost compared to the best-known previous structure. These compelling outcomes solidify the potential of the proposed reversible ALU as a transformative advancement in energy-efficient and high-speed computing for DSP applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum walks are the quantum counterpart of classical random walks and have various applications in quantum information science. Polar molecules have rich internal energy structure and long coherence time and thus are considered as a promising candidate for quantum information processing. In this paper, we propose a theoretical scheme for implementing discrete-time quantum walks on a circle with dipole–dipole coupled SrO molecules. The states of the walker and the coin are encoded in the pendular states of polar molecules induced by an external electric field. We design the optimal microwave pulses for implementing quantum walks on a four-node circle and a three-node circle by multi-target optimal control theory. To reduce the accumulation of decoherence and improve the fidelity, we successfully realize a step of quantum walk with only one optimal pulse. Moreover, we also encode the walker into a three-level molecular qutrit and a four-level molecular ququart and design the corresponding optimal pulses for quantum walks, which can reduce the number of molecules used. It is found that all the quantum walks on a circle in our scheme can be achieved via optimal control fields with high fidelities. Our results could shed some light on the implementation of discrete-time quantum walks and high-dimensional quantum information processing with polar molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider the problem of analyzing spin-flip qubit gate operation in the presence of Random Telegraph Noise (RTN). Our compressive approach is the following. By using the Feynman disentangling operators method, we calculate the spin-flip probability of qubit driven by different kinds of composite pulses, e.g., Constant pulse (C-pulse), Quantum Well pulse (QW-pulse), and Barrier Potential pulse (BP-pulse) in the presence of RTN. When composite pulses and RTN act in the x-direction and z-direction respectively, we calculate the optimal time to achieve perfect spin-flip probability of qubit. We report that the highest fidelity of spin-flip qubit can be achieved by using C-pulse, followed by BP-pulse and QW-pulse. For a more general case, we have tested several pulse sequences for achieving high fidelity quantum gates, where we use the pulses acting in different directions. From the calculations, we find that high fidelity of qubit gate operation in the presence of RTN is achieved when QW-pulse, BP-pulse, and C-pulse act in the x-direction, y-direction, and z-direction, respectively. We extend our investigations for multiple QW and BP pulses while choosing the C-pulse amplitude constant in the presence of RTN. The results of calculation show that 98.5 % fidelity can be achieved throughout the course of RTN that may be beneficial for quantum error correction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular qubits are an emerging platform in quantum information science due to the unmatched structural control that chemical design and synthesis provide compared to other leading qubit technologies. This theoretical study investigates pulse sequence protocols for spin-correlated radical pairs, which are important molecular spin qubit pair (SQP) candidates. Here, we introduce improved microwave pulse protocols for enhancing the execution times of quantum logic gates based on SQPs. Significantly, this study demonstrates that the proposed pulse sequences effectively remove certain contributions from nuclear spin effects on spin dynamics, which are a common source of decoherence. Additionally, we have analyzed the factors that control the fidelity of the SQP spin state, following the application of the controlled-NOT gate. It was found that higher magnetic fields introduce a high frequency oscillation in the fidelity. Thereupon, it is suggested that further research should be geared toward executing quantum gates at lower magnetic field values. In addition, an absolute bound of the fidelity outcome due to decoherence is determined, which clearly identifies the important factors that control gate execution. Finally, examples of the application of these pulse sequences to SQPs are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic skyrmion is a promising information carrier for its low critical driven current density, topological stability, and small size, which has been proposed for various devices such as racetrack memory and logic gates. However, the skyrmion Hall effect originating from Magnus force leads to transverse motion, which hinders the development of skyrmionic device applications. Here, we propose artificial tracks built by standing surface acoustic waves (SSAWs) to suppress the skyrmion Hall effect through micromagnetic simulations. We systematically study the dynamics of an isolated skyrmion under SSAWs and driven currents in a prototype of the ferromagnetic skyrmion system. The skyrmion Hall angle changes from 80° to 0°, where the skyrmion motion is along the driven current. An analytical model considering magnetoelastic energy induced by SSAWs is developed, and a linear relation between the current density and the critical SSAW amplitude to eliminate the skyrmion Hall effect is achieved. Furthermore, a reconfigurable multichannel skyrmion racetrack is constructed through the change of SSAW wavelengths. Our work opens a feasible route for the suppression of skyrmion Hall effect via SSAWs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sensitivity and selectivity of modern electrochemical genotyping methods are insufficient to detect a single-oligonucleotide mismatch in low-concentration native DNA samples. Novel methods of tuning, controlling, and monitoring plasmon modes are necessary to achieve attomolar and higher sensitivity for the modern graphene-based transducers of molecular signals. The electrochemical DNA assay is promising one for applications in the molecular diagnostics of tumors with the genome single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) for simultaneously discriminating both wild-type and mutant alleles of the gene in very small concentrations. We offer the plasmon-associated DNA-genotyping method based on the screening effects in assemblies of Raman-optically active conjugates comprising DNA and metallic carbon nanotubes. The impedimetric DNA sensors of non-Faradaic type based on the plasmonic screening effect can be more sensitive than the Raman optical transducer based on Raman DNA optical activity resulting in the plasmon resonance due to liability of the Raman transducer parameters to environmental influence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endometrial cancer continues to be the only gynecologic malignancy with a rising incidence and mortality, with both regional and global implications. Combination carboplatin and paclitaxel has been the recognized chemotherapy backbone for the treatment of advanced‐stage or recurrent disease, with modest clinical outcomes. Over the last year, significant advances were achieved in improving oncologic outcomes by capitalizing on the molecular characterization of this heterogenous disease. These advances include incorporation of immunotherapy, identification of effective hormonal approaches, the evolution of antibody drug conjugates, and utilization of alternate targeted therapies. Plain Language Summary: The molecular characterization of endometrial cancer has been critical in informing novel treatment strategies.Over the past year, significant gains have been made via the incorporation of immunotherapy, hormonal combinations as well as antibody drug conjugates. Advanced stage and recurrence endometrial cancer remains difficult to treat. Recently, significant gains have been achieved in identifying effective therapeutic strategies by capitalizing on the molecular characterization of this heterogeneous disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using recycled concrete aggregates (RCAs) in concrete is a promising approach to minimise the environmental impacts associated with construction and demolition waste while simultaneously enhancing the sustainability of concrete. Improving the quality of RCAs is crucial for promoting confidence among materials suppliers and systematic utilisation of RCAs in construction. Pristine graphene (PG) suspensions (0.1% and 0.2% concentrations in water) were investigated for improving the properties of RCAs and thereby improving the mechanical and durability properties of concretes made with 100% RCAs as coarse aggregates. Two PG treatment methods were used – spraying and soaking. Nano-silica (NS) suspensions of the same concentrations were also used for comparison. Tests for axial compressive, splitting tensile and flexural strengths were performed; water absorption and drying shrinkage were also assessed. Microanalysis was conducted using scanning electron microscopy and micro computed tomography. PG was found to be more effective than NS for increasing strength properties and reducing water absorption and drying shrinkage of concrete due to its lower porosity. For a given nanomaterial concentration and type, concretes made with soaked RCA exhibited higher strengths and lower water absorption and drying shrinkage than concretes with sprayed RCA. The concretes made with soaked RCA also had lower porosity and fewer microcracks. The results are promising and indicate that treating RCAs reduces their water absorption, thereby improving concrete performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Synthetic biology has the potential to revolutionize biotechnology, public health, and agriculture. Recent studies have shown the enormous potential of plants as chassis for synthetic biology applications. However, tools to precisely manipulate metabolic pathways for bioproduction in plants are still needed.We used bacterial allosteric transcription factors (aTFs) that control gene expression in a ligand‐specific manner and tested their ability to repress semi‐synthetic promoters in plants. We also tested the modulation of their repression activity in response to specific plant metabolites, especially phenylpropanoid‐related molecules. Using these aTFs, we also designed synthetic genetic circuits capable of computing Boolean logic operations.Three aTFs, CouR, FapR, and TtgR, achieved c. 95% repression of their respective target promoters. For TtgR, a sixfold de‐repression could be triggered by inducing its ligand accumulation, showing its use as biosensor. Moreover, we designed synthetic genetic circuits that use AND, NAND, IMPLY, and NIMPLY Boolean logic operations and integrate metabolite levels as input to the circuit.We showed that biosensors can be implemented in plants to detect phenylpropanoid‐related metabolites and activate a genetic circuit that follows a predefined logic, demonstrating their potential as tools for exerting control over plant metabolic pathways and facilitating the bioproduction of natural products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: Treponema is a Gram‐negative anaerobic bacterium, among which the pathogenic Treponema can cause various diseases, such as venereal syphilis (Treponema pallidum), yaws (Treponema carateum), and oral diseases (Treponema denticola and Treponema medium). Although different from conventional lipopolysaccharides, the extracellular glycoconjugate of Treponema may still be a potential antigen and provide a candidate for vaccine development. Hence, we completed the first chemical synthesis of Treponema medium ATCC 700293 tetrasaccharide precursor containing L‐ornithine (L‐Orn) and D‐aspartic acid (D‐Asp) derivatives. The efficiency of non‐reducing end disaccharide formation has been improved by optimizing the assembly of the protecting groups in the donors and acceptors. Our [3+1] glycosylation strategy attempted to reduce the length of the acceptor to increase the nucleophilicity of the hydroxyl group, thereby improving the efficiency of synthesizing the target tetrasaccharide. The L‐Orn derivative was introduced at the final stage due to its influence on the glycosylation stereospecificity and efficiency. Therefore, the successful introduction of two amino acid derivatives and the synthesis of a tetrasaccharide precursor with complex functional‐group modifications have provided valuable insights for synthesizing other complex bacterial glycans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: L‐Arabinose (L‐Ara) is a plant‐specific sugar found in cell wall polysaccharides, proteoglycans, glycoproteins, and small glycoconjugates, which play physiologically important roles in cell proliferation and other essential cellular processes. L‐Ara is synthesized as UDP‐L‐arabinose (UDP‐L‐Ara) from UDP‐xylose (UDP‐Xyl) by UDP‐Xyl 4‐epimerases (UXEs), a type of de novo synthesis of L‐Ara unique to plants. In Arabidopsis, the Golgi‐localized UXE AtMUR4 is the main contributor to UDP‐L‐Ara synthesis. However, cytosolic bifunctional UDP‐glucose 4‐epimerases (UGEs) with UXE activity, AtUGE1, and AtUGE3 also catalyze this reaction. For the present study, we first examined the physiological importance of bifunctional UGEs in Arabidopsis. The uge1 and uge3 mutants enhanced the dwarf phenotype of mur4 and further reduced the L‐Ara content in cell walls, suggesting that bifunctional UGEs contribute to UDP‐L‐Ara synthesis. Through the introduction of point mutations exchanging corresponding amino acid residues between AtUGE1 with high UXE activity and AtUGE2 with low UXE activity, two mutations that increase relative UXE activity of AtUGE2 were identified. The crystal structures of AtUGE2 in complex forms with NAD+ and NAD+/UDP revealed that the UDP‐binding domain of AtUGE2 has a more closed conformation and smaller sugar‐binding site than bacterial and mammalian UGEs, suggesting that plant UGEs have the appropriate size and shape for binding UDP‐Xyl and UDP‐L‐Ara to exhibit UXE activity. The presented results suggest that the capacity for cytosolic synthesis of UDP‐L‐Ara was acquired by the small sugar‐binding site and several mutations of UGEs, enabling diversified utilization of L‐Ara in seed plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on the problem of recycling construction and demolition wastes as well as industrial waste by-products into sustainable concrete materials. By combining addition of three different industrial waste by-products, an environmentally friendly recycled aggregate self-compacting concrete (RA-SCC) mix was put forward. Carbonation resistance and microstructure of SCC incorporating high volumes of industry by-products and recycled aggregates were studied in this paper. A total of 9 RA-SCC with 50%, 75% supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) and different SCM combinations were prepared, which consist of binary mix with fly ash (FA), ternary mix with FA and ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS), and quaternary mix with FA, GGBS, and silica fume (SF). An exposure period of 3, 7, 14, and 28 days was adopted for accelerated carbonation tests. The test results indicate that, as RCAs content increased, RA-SCC carbonation depth increased. The carbonation depth of SCC with 100% RCAs increased by 49.35% compared to that of normal SCC. In addition, carbonation resistance of RA-SCC mixes with a given compressive strength decreased with increasing SCM content. However, the loss in carbonation resistance was greatly mitigated by the combined addition of different SCMs, on account of the substitution of cement with industrial by-products and natural aggregates with RCAs. The combined addition of different SCMs enhanced the carbonation resistance of RA-SCC mixes. The test results were validated through microstructural analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). A comparison between predictions calculated using existing models and measured carbonation depth was implemented. By taking into account the effect of RCAs and SCMs, a modified carbonation model in conjunction with fib carbonation model was put forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycling construction wastes for their utilisation as aggregates will overcome the dumping and scarcity problems. However, their higher porosity affects the properties of concrete. Hence, this study examines the potential use of microbial-induced calcium carbonate precipitation techniques to improve the quality of recycled coarse aggregates (RCA). The natural coarse aggregate (NCA) was replaced with 50, 100% of RCA and bio-deposited recycled coarse aggregate (BRCA). The aggregate properties were tested and observed that the water absorption and crushing index of RCA were increased by 85.10% and 19.10%, whereas for BRCA, the water absorption and crushing index were increased by only 5.20% and 5.80%. The concrete mixture prepared with optimised and complete percentages of RCA and BRCA was tested for their fresh, hardened, and durable properties. It is observed that the strength of the RAC was 36% lesser than NAC, whereas the strength of the BRAC was 33.40% more compared to the RAC at 28 days. Also, the water absorption and sorptivity of BRAC were reduced by 33.68% and 15.50% and the resistance to carbonation and chloride ingression of BRAC was enhanced by 15.50% and 29.73% when compared to RAC. The microstructural investigations performed through SEM and XRD evident the CaCO3 precipitation that improves the quality of RCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the current study is to evaluate the performance of Recycled Concrete Aggregates (RCA) based Self-compacting Concrete (RCA-SCC) comprising coal ashes and Silica Fume (SF). Coal ashes [Fly Ash (FA) and Coal Bottom Ash (CBA)] were incorporated as partial replacement for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and Fine Natural Aggregates (FNA), respectively, while RCA were incorporated in place of Coarse Natural Aggregates (CNA). In order to compensate for the anticipated performance loss caused by the incorporation of RCA, a fixed percentage (10%) of SF was used as filler. The performance of aforesaid SCC was evaluated through various laboratory tests in fresh and hardened state. Five different substitution levels of CNA with RCA (0–100%), parallel with constant substitution level of FNA with CBA (10%) and OPC with SF + FA (10% + 20%) have been used throughout the investigation. Overall, the experimental outcomes along with regression results confirmed the potential of RCA-SCC prepared with CBA. RCA-SCC mix (25%) with coal ashes (FA + CBA) resulted in nearly equivalent performance to that of the reference SCC mix. Finally, the outcomes imply the successful contribution of SF, coal ashes (CBA + FA), and RCA leading towards the sustainable development of non-conventional SCC with identical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aims to develop a generalized pharmacokinetic (PK) model for monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE)‐based antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) that can simultaneously capture the PK of multiple ADC analytes commonly measured in the clinic. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to collect PK data on MMAE‐based ADCs from clinical trials. From each study, PK profiles of total antibody, the ADC, conjugated MMAE, and unconjugated MMAE, were extracted. These data were pooled and dose‐normalized to evaluate the generalizability of PK across various ADCs and dose levels. Upon confirming PK generalizability, a generalized PK model for MMAE‐based ADCs was developed using the entire dataset. Furthermore, exposure metrics (Cmax and AUC) reported across the range of doses were combined to establish linear relationships between dose and exposure metrics for MMAE‐based ADCs. Results: A total of 109 PK profiles from 18 distinct MMAE‐based ADCs were gathered. The dose‐normalized PK profiles supported the generalizability of PK for MMAE‐based ADCs. A generalized PK model was developed, which enabled capturing the PK data for 4 ADC analytes across all collected MMAE‐based ADCs. A linear relationship between dose and PK exposure metrics was established, enabling the prediction of typical exposure values across different doses for MMAE‐based ADCs. Conclusions: This study comprehensively analysed clinical PK data from different valine–citrulline (vc)‐MMAE‐based ADCs. The generalized PK model developed here serves as an important tool for a priori prediction of the PK for multiple ADC analytes in clinical settings and lays the foundation for establishing generalized exposure–response and exposure–toxicity correlations for MMAE‐based ADCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the REALight project is the development of a thermal process to produce lightweight aggregates in pilot scale and the implantation of a method to recover gypsum. Beside construction and demolition waste, various industrial by‐products are studied as raw materials. The raw materials have so far been unused or used in applications with lower quality requirements. To prove the performance of the lightweight aggregates, their technical properties are tested and their use in different applications is studied, e.g., for lightweight mortars as well as lightweight concretes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a beta-phase gallium oxide (β -Ga2O3) vertical FinFET with diamond-gate has been studied by Silvaco-ATLAS simulation. The diamond-gate structure achieves adjustable pin (p-insulator-n) junction owing to the diamond-SiO2-Ga2O3 heterostructure. This design also enhances heat dissipation by virtue of the high thermal conductivity of the diamond. Compared to conventional FinFETs, the diamond-gate FinFET (DG-FinFET) reduces the static operating temperature rise by around 17.30%. Additionally, due to its greater heat dissipation capacity, DG-FinFETs provide a 5.84% increase in current density at 1 kA cm−2 current density level. The structural changes in the diamond-gate also result in a significant reduction in the gate-source capacitance (C GS). At 1 MHz operating frequency and the same gate voltage, DG-FinFETs have 69.29% less gate-source charge (Q GS), 70.80% less charge/discharge delay time, 73.70% less switching loss, and 57.15% less conduction loss. Overall, the simulation and analysis presented in this work indicate a promising advancement of the DG-FinFET structure in high-power and rapid switching applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emergency material security is the key to post-disaster emergency relief in complex environment engineering construction projects. Aiming at the emergency logistics center site path planning problem, the uncertain parameters of congestion time and maximum rescue time are described using trapezoidal fuzzy numbers, and the emergency logistics site path model of the two-phase engineering construction project is established. A quantum particle swarm optimization model is designed to avoid premature population convergence and maintain population diversity. The particle swarm algorithm uses the quantum spin gate's rotation angle update to represent the particle velocity update. Taking the engineering construction project in the western mountainous area as an example, the validity and applicability of the model are verified through model comparison and sensitivity analysis. The results of the example show that in the complex environment, the quantum particle swarm algorithm takes 29.35 s in convergence time, and the particle swarm algorithm takes 40.12 s, which is 36.69% higher than the efficiency of PSO. In total cost, the quantum particle swarm algorithm has a total cost of 46,632.40 RMB, and the particle swarm algorithm has a total cost of 48,319.51 RMB, which is 3.62% lower than the cost of PSO. The quantum particle swarm algorithm's total distance is 550.57 km, and the particle swarm algorithm's total distance is 579.35 km, 5.23% lower than the total distance of PSO. The model established in this study can scientifically select the location of emergency facilities and formulate the emergency rescue path, reduce the response time of emergency rescue and storage costs, and provide decision support for the scheduling of emergency supplies for engineering construction projects in complex and dangerous areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main products of the mining industry is crushed stone, which is an essential material in structure construction, such as concrete aggregate, asphalt aggregate in road construction, ballast aggregate in railway construction, etc. Due to the application fields, evaluating the durability of these aggregates is required. An economical and durable design cannot be achieved without knowing the resisting capacity of the used stone materials to abrasion, crushing, impact, and disintegration – collectively known as mechanical weathering or degradation. In addition to presenting different forms of mechanical weathering of aggregates, the paper summarizes the most frequently used laboratory tests developed to determine the resistance to these stresses. It introduces various national standards emphasizing their differences and examines the possibility of test result comparability with respect to geology and practical application. The research also presents several empirical relations from the literature between the different degradation parameters. Besides that, the paper aims to give an overview of the international literature that deals with the mechanical weathering of aggregate materials by using organizing tables and comparative graphs; it tries to contribute to the organization and comparability of the existing knowledge and the results found in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multivalency in lectins plays a pivotal role in influencing glycan cross-linking, thereby affecting lectin functionality. This multivalency can be achieved through oligomerization, the presence of tandemly repeated carbohydrate recognition domains, or a combination of both. Unlike lectins that rely on multiple factors for the oligomerization of identical monomers, tandem-repeat lectins inherently possess multivalency, independent of this complex process. The repeat domains, although not identical, display slightly distinct specificities within a predetermined geometry, enhancing specificity, affinity, avidity and even oligomerization. Despite the recognition of this structural characteristic in recently discovered lectins by numerous studies, a unified criterion to define tandem-repeat lectins is still necessary. We suggest defining them multivalent lectins with intrachain tandem repeats corresponding to carbohydrate recognition domains, independent of oligomerization. This systematic review examines the folding and phyletic diversity of tandem-repeat lectins and refers to relevant literature. Our study categorizes all lectins with tandemly repeated carbohydrate recognition domains into nine distinct folding classes associated with specific biological functions. Our findings provide a comprehensive description and analysis of tandem-repeat lectins in terms of their functions and structural features. Our exploration of phyletic and functional diversity has revealed previously undocumented tandem-repeat lectins. We propose research directions aimed at enhancing our understanding of the origins of tandem-repeat lectin and fostering the development of medical and biotechnological applications, notably in the design of artificial sugars and neolectins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents an experimental analysis on the use of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets to enhance the flexural performance of lightweight concrete slabs. The study found that repairing the slabs with CFRP sheets increased their load capacity and prevented crack propagation. However, the effectiveness of the rehabilitation decreased with increasing damage. The article also provides a list of references related to the behavior and performance of various types of concrete structures, which can be valuable for researchers and engineers in the field. [Extracted from the article]

Soil nutrient cycling, the distribution of soil aggregates, and their stability are directly influenced by soil texture. Different sizes of soil aggregates provide microhabitats for microorganisms and therefore influence soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) mineralization. The purpose of the present study was to assess the aggregate stability and dynamics of carbon and nitrogen in macroaggregate size fractions (1-8 mm) with different clay content from meadow soils. Surface soil samples (0-15 cm) were collected from 4- to 5-year-old forage crops. Four macroaggregate size classes were isolated by dry sieving and analyzed for their mass proportions: fine macroaggregates (FM) (less than 1 mm), medium-fine macroaggregates (MFM) (1-2 mm), mediumcoarse macroaggregates (MCM) (2-4 mm), and large-coarse macroaggregates (LCM) (4-8 mm). The dry mean weight diameter (MWD), organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (TN), carbon and nitrogen of microbial biomass (C-MB, N-MB) were determined. CO2 emission and net nitrogen mineralized (NM) were measured after 14 weeks of incubation. The amounts of FM were significantly lower than those of intermediate macroaggregates (MCM and MFM) and decreased markedly with increasing clay content within soil macroaggregates. In general, the amounts of macroaggregate size fractions were lowest in soils with high clay content. MWD exhibited a significant correlation with particle size distribution, OC, and MB-C. OC, TN, MB-C, and MB-N contents within macroaggregates increased with decreasing macroaggregate size and increasing clay content of macroaggregate fractions. The CO2 emission and NM content increased with increasing macroaggregate size, indicating higher organic C and N mineralization activity in larger macroaggregates. Mineralization of OC was lowest in macroaggregate fractions with the highest clay content. We conclude that clay content can increase the protection of microbial biomass in meadow soils. Small macroaggregates tend to contain more recalcitrant organic matter compared to larger macroaggregates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Ensuring the freshness of fish is essential to guaranteeing safer products for consumers. A classification model was developed using the PEN3 electronic nose to predict fish freshness with its storage day. Frigate tuna (Auxis thazard) was used for odour sampling along with the total volatile base nitrogen (TVB‐N), at 4 °C for 14 days every other day. Random forest and support vector machine (SVM) were performed to develop freshness classification models based on PEN3 data and 100% and 99.8% accuracies were obtained, respectively, in distinguishing the eight storage day classes. The PEN3 sensors including W2S, W1S, W1W, W3S, and W6S were identified as key sensors for fish freshness. TVB‐N analysis advances the freshness prediction of e‐nose and three freshness levels were identified as 'Fresh', applicable from the 0th to the 6th day; 'Moderately fresh', lasting from the 7th to the 9th day; and 'Unsuitable for consumption', applicable from the 10th day onwards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bloch Sphere visualization of the possible states of a single qubit serves as a useful pedagogical and conceptual tool, offering a one-to-one map between qubit states and points in a 3D space. However, understanding many important concepts of quantum mechanics, such as entanglement, requires developing intuitions about states with a minimum of two qubits, which map one-to-one to unvisualizable spaces of six dimensions and higher. In this paper, we circumvent this visualization issue by creating maps of subspaces of 1- and 2-qubit systems that quantitatively and qualitatively encode properties of these states in their geometries. For the 1-qubit case, the subspace approach allows one to visualize how mixed states relate to different choices of measurement in a basis-independent way and how to read off the entries in a density matrix representation of these states from lengths in a simple diagram. For the 2-qubit case, a toroidal map of 2-qubit states illuminates the non-trivial topology of the state space while allowing one to simultaneously read off, in distances and angles, the level of entanglement in the 2-qubit state and the mixed-state properties of its constituent qubits. By encoding states and their evolutions through quantum logic gates with little to no need of mathematical formalism, these maps may prove particularly useful for understanding fundamental concepts of quantum mechanics and quantum information at the introductory level. Editor's Note: While single qubit states can be visualized with a Block Sphere, 2-qubit states are much more challenging to visualize. This paper presents a new way to visualize these states using toroids. While the representation is limited to states with real coefficients, it can illustrate both separable and entangled states, allowing students to develop intuition for their use in quantum information. This representation can be used in introductory classes in a quantum information curriculum but will also be valuable in more standard quantum mechanics courses at a variety of levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the field of quantum computing rapidly advances, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals adept in quantum computing and programming. Recognizing this need, in this paper, we share our experiences teaching an introductory-level quantum computing course to students at Cleveland State University (CSU). The course integrates dedicated hands-on programming labs, allowing students to verify their experimental results with corresponding examples from the textbook. These labs cover a diverse range of topics, including fundamental elements such as quantum gates and circuits, quantum key distribution protocols, and quantum algorithms. As educators, our goal is to share teaching insights and resources with fellow instructors in the field. This article elucidates the rationale behind the design of each experiment, providing a deeper understanding of quantum computing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum comparators hold substantial significance in the scientific community as fundamental components in a wide array of algorithms. In this research, we present an innovative approach where we explore the realm of comparator circuits, specifically focussing on three distinct circuit designs present in the literature. These circuits are notable for their use of T-gates, which have gained significant attention in circuit design due to their ability to enable the utilisation of error-correcting codes. However, it is important to note that T-gates come at a considerable computational cost. One of the key contributions of our work is the optimisation of the quantum gates used within these circuits. We articulate the proposed circuits employing Clifford+T gates, facilitating error correction code implementation. Additionally, we minimise T-gate usage, thereby reducing computational costs and fortifying circuit robustness against errors and environmental disturbances-essential for mitigating the effects of internal and external noise. Our methodology employs a bottom-up examination of comparator circuits, initiating with a detailed study of their gates. Subsequently, we systematically dissect the functions of these gates, thereby advancing towards a comprehensive understanding of the circuit's overall functionality. This meticulous examination forms the foundation of our research, enabling us to identify areas where optimisations can be made to improve their performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycans, carbohydrates, and glycoconjugates are involved in many crucial biological processes, such as disease development, immune responses, and cell–cell recognition. Glycans and carbohydrates are known for the large number of isomeric features associated with their structures, making analysis challenging compared with other biomolecules. Mass spectrometry has become the primary method of structural characterization for carbohydrates, glycans, and glycoconjugates. Metal adduction is especially important for the mass spectrometric analysis of carbohydrates and glycans. Metal‐ion adduction to carbohydrates and glycoconjugates affects ion formation and the three‐dimensional, gas‐phase structures. Herein, we discuss how metal‐ion adduction impacts ionization, ion mobility, ion activation and dissociation, and hydrogen/deuterium exchange for carbohydrates and glycoconjugates. We also compare the use of different metals for these various techniques and highlight the value in using metals as charge carriers for these analyses. Finally, we provide recommendations for selecting a metal for analysis of carbohydrate adducts and describe areas for continued research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study illustrates the susceptibility of optimized-quality recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) to supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), such as silica fume (SF), ground granulated blast slag (GGBS), and mechanically produced recycled fine (M-Fine or MF), in concrete. According to the present research, old interfacial transition zone (OITZ) characteristics may be controlled if RCA is developed in such a way as to reduce mortar adhesion optimally. It may facilitate the penetration of binder particles, strengthening the OITZ even further. A high-quality surface may improve RCA's self-cementing properties, which strengthen the new ITZ (NITZ). The combined effect may yield RCA characteristics equivalent to parent aggregate when interacting with a cement matrix based on SCMs. Substituting the cement with SF (11%), GGBS (14%), and MF (15%) contributes to the compressive strength of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) up to 11.61% via strengthening the OITZ. SF and GGBS further enhance RAC tensile strength in a similar way to how they enhance natural aggregate concrete (NAC) tensile strength. The elastic modulus (MOE), fracture energy, and durability characteristics of RAC with SF and GGBS are significantly improved. RAC with MF (15%) shows compressive and tensile strength comparable to RAC with GGBS (14%) with marginal reductions in flexural strength. In comparison to RAC, RAC with MF has a 2.9% lower MOE. RAC-MF has 1.82% higher fracture energy than RAC. RAC-SF, RAC-GGBS, and RAC-MF have significantly reduced water absorption and water absorption rate (sorptivity) than RAC. There is a strong correlation between the compressive strength of RAC, RAC-SF, RAC-GGBS, and RAC-MF, and their UPV with R2=0.92. The sorptivity and electrical resistivity are also correlated with R2=0.86. SEM images show uniform and dense microstructure and EDS analyses shows Si-rich C-S-H gel formation, resulting in superior mechanical and durability properties in RAC with SCM compared to RAC. Practical Applications: About 20% to 30% of recycled fines (M-Fines) below 150 μm are generated during RCA processing from construction and demolition waste. In addition, M-Fines are also generated during the removal of the mortar attached to the RCA. Thus, M-Fines as by-products of mechanical processing of RCA could be used as cementitious materials. Despite M-Fine's low reactivity compared to SF, it may produce strength and durability characteristics comparable to other conventional supplementary cementitious materials like GGBS. In structural concrete, optimized-quality recycled concrete aggregates with supplementary cementitious materials, including M-Fines, can be used. In this way, it may be possible to promote construction and demolition waste recycling operations. Moreover, the effectiveness of SF and GGBS with RCA, as well as the performance of RAC-MF, may encourage the use of RAC as structural concretes and M-Fines as supplementary cementitious materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to a severe shortage of natural aggregates in terms of quantity and quality, alternative aggregate resources must be utilized in civil engineering construction to meet significant increase in aggregate demand. This study focuses on manufacturing artificial aggregates for pavement applications using two waste materials- mine overburden waste from the coal mining industry and fly ash from thermal power plants. Liquid alkali activator, a mixture of sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide, is used as a binder. The centrifugal forces generated due to a rotating disc pelletizer enables mixing the said components resulting in formation of spherical-shaped pellets. The nucleated pellets are oven cured at 70°C for 7 days. Based on extensive laboratory test trials, the optimal features to produce competent aggregates in terms of angle and revolution speed of the disc pelletizer, dosage of the liquid alkali activator and the concentration of the NaOH are proposed. Finally, the manufactured aggregates are tested for properties relevant to flexible pavement applications. The aggregate impact and Los Angeles abrasion values are found to be 17% and 21.6%, indicating satisfactory resistance to impact and abrasion of aggregate particles under traffic loads. The basic material properties of these aggregates are found to conform to the Indian Roads Congress (IRC) and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) standards for base and subbase layers. Moreover, base/subbase layers prepared with artificial aggregates and mine waste showed high California bearing ratio (CBR) of 54.3% and 80.5% for 2.5 mm and 5.0 mm penetration of the plunger, respectively, indicating high load-bearing capacity of pavement layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete made using recycled aggregates may become less durable due to sulfate attack. In this study, the degradation of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) under external sulfate assault was investigated using a mesoscale numerical analysis method. A random convex polygon aggregate model with five phases—(1) aggregate, (2) aggregate–old bonded mortar interface transition zone (ITZ), (3) old bonded mortar, (4) old bonded mortar–new bonded mortar ITZ, and (5) new bonded mortar—was established using a self-compiled program in order to take into account the heterogeneity of RAC. The aggregate was considered an impervious phase, but the four other phases were considered pervious. In the model, the only chemical byproduct was the ettringite that causes expansion. The proposed method for modeling sulfate attack on RAC was validated by experiments. Sulfate diffusion, the impact of ITZ thickness, water:cement ratio, and surface sulfate content were investigated. The simulation results showed that (1) there was limited influence of surface sulfate ion concentration on the rate of sulfate erosion in RAC, (2) water:cement ratio has a significant impact on sulfate resistance in RAC, and (3) the sulfate attack procedure is largely unaffected by ITZ thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some properties of σ-convex functions are studied. Then some relations between the notions of σ-subdifferentials and σ-convex functions are established. Also, we present some results regarding the sum formula for the σ-subdifferential. Moreover, we obtain some particular relationships between the σ-subdifferential and the $ (\sigma,y) $ (σ , y) -conjugate. Finally, by imposing some assumptions on f and σ, the maximal $ 2\sigma $ 2 σ -monotonicity of σ-subdifferential is studied. Indeed, the maximality of the usual Fenchel subdifferentials of lower semicontinuous convex functions follows from our result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibody–drug conjugates have promising clinical activity in the treatment of solid tumours. BL-B01D1 is a first-in-class EGFR–HER3 bispecific antibody–drug conjugate. We aimed to assess the safety and preliminary antitumour activity of BL-B01D1 in patients with locally advanced or metastatic solid tumours. This first-in-human, open-label, multicentre, dose-escalation and dose-expansion phase 1 trial was conducted in seven hospitals in China, enrolling patients aged 18–75 years (dose escalation; phase 1a) or older than 18 years (dose expansion; phase 1b), with a life expectancy of at least 3 months, an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0–1, and histologically or cytologically confirmed locally advanced or metastatic solid tumours that had progressed on current standard treatment. In the phase 1a i3+3 design, patients received intravenous BL-B01D1 at three different schedules: 0·27 mg/kg, 1·5 mg/kg, and 3·0 mg/kg weekly; 2·5 mg/kg, 3·0 mg/kg, and 3·5 mg/kg on days 1 and 8 of each cycle every 3 weeks; or 5·0 mg/kg and 6·0 mg/kg on day 1 of each cycle every 3 weeks. The primary objectives of phase 1a were to identify the safety, maximum tolerated dose, and dose-limiting toxicity. In phase 1b, patients were treated in two schedules: 2·5 and 3·0 mg/kg on days 1 and 8 every 3 weeks, or 4·5, 5·0, and 6·0 mg/kg on day 1 every 3 weeks. The primary objectives of phase 1b were to assess the safety and recommended phase 2 dose of BL-B01D1, and objective response rate was a key secondary endpoint. Safety was analysed in all patients with safety records who received at least one dose of BL-B01D1. Antitumour activity was assessed in the activity analysis set which included all patients who received at least one dose of BL-B01D1 every 3 weeks. This trial is registered with China Drug Trials, CTR20212923, and ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT05194982 , and recruitment is ongoing. Between Dec 8, 2021, and March 13, 2023, 195 patients (133 [65%] men and 62 [32%] women; 25 in phase 1a and 170 in phase 1b) were consecutively enrolled, including 113 with non-small-cell lung cancer, 42 with nasopharyngeal carcinomas, 13 with small-cell lung cancer, 25 with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, one with thymic squamous cell carcinoma, and one with submandibular lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma. In phase 1a, four dose-limiting toxicities were observed (two at 3·0 mg/kg weekly and two at 3·5 mg/kg on days 1 and 8 every 3 weeks; all were febrile neutropenia), thus the maximum tolerated dose was reached at 3·0 mg/kg on days 1 and 8 every 3 weeks and 6·0 mg/kg on day 1 every 3 weeks. Grade 3 or worse treatment-related adverse events occurred in 139 (71%) of 195 patients; the most common of which were neutropenia (91 [47%]), anaemia (76 [39%]), leukopenia (76 [39%]), and thrombocytopenia (63 [32%]). 52 (27%) patients had a dose reduction and five (3%) patients discontinued treatment due to treatment-related adverse events. One patient was reported as having interstitial lung disease. Treatment-related deaths occurred in three (2%) patients (one due to pneumonia, one due to septic shock, and one due to myelosuppression). In 174 patients evaluated for activity, median follow-up was 6·9 months (IQR 4·5–8·9) and 60 (34%; 95% CI 27–42) patients had an objective response. Our results suggest that BL-B01D1 has preliminary antitumour activity in extensively and heavily treated advanced solid tumours with an acceptable safety profile. Based on the safety and antitumour activity data from both phase 1a and 1b, 2·5 mg/kg on days 1 and 8 every 3 weeks was selected as the recommended phase 2 dose in Chinese patients. Sichuan Baili Pharmaceutical. For the Chinese translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: Protein‐protein interactions (PPIs) play a crucial role in drug discovery and disease treatment. However, the development of effective drugs targeting PPIs remains challenging due to limited methodologies for probing their spatiotemporal anisotropy. Here, we propose a single‐molecule approach using a unique force circuit to investigate PPI dynamics and anisotropy under mechanical forces. Unlike conventional techniques, this approach enables the manipulation and real‐time monitoring of individual proteins at specific amino acids with defined geometry, offering insights into molecular mechanisms at the single‐molecule level. The DNA force circuit was constructed using click chemistry conjugation methods and genetic code expansion techniques, facilitating orthogonal conjugation between proteins and nucleic acids. The SET domain of the MLL1 protein and the tail of histone H3 were used as a model system to demonstrate the application of the DNA force circuit. With the use of atomic force microscopy and magnetic tweezers, optimized assembly procedures were developed. The DNA force circuit provides an exceptional platform for studying the anisotropy of PPIs and holds promise for advancing drug discovery research targeted at PPIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypercoagulability emerges as a central pathological feature and clinical complication in nephrotic syndrome. Increased platelet activation and aggregability are closely related to hypercoagulability in nephrotic syndrome. Monocyte-platelet aggregates (MPAs) have been proposed to represent a robust biomarker of platelet activation. The aim of this study was to investigate levels of the circulating MPAs and MPAs with the different monocyte subsets to evaluate the association of MPAs with hypercoagulability in nephrotic syndrome. Methods: Thirty-two patients with nephrotic syndrome were enrolled. In addition, thirty-two healthy age and sex matched adult volunteers served as healthy controls. MPAs were identified by CD14 monocytes positive for CD41a platelets. The classical (CD14 + + CD16-, CM), the intermediate (CD14 + + CD16+, IM) and the non-classical (CD14 + CD16++, NCM) monocytes, as well as subset specific MPAs, were measured by flow cytometry. Results: Patients with nephrotic syndrome showed a higher percentage of circulating MPAs as compared with healthy controls (p < 0.001). The percentages of MPAs with CM, IM, and NCM were higher than those of healthy controls (p = 0.012, p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Circulating MPAs showed correlations with hypoalbuminemia (r=-0.85; p < 0.001), hypercholesterolemia (r = 0.54; p < 0.001), fibrinogen (r = 0.70; p < 0.001) and D-dimer (r = 0.37; p = 0.003), but not with hypertriglyceridemia in nephrotic syndrome. The AUC for the prediction of hypercoagulability in nephrotic syndrome using MPAs was 0.79 (95% CI 0.68–0.90, p < 0.001). The sensitivity of MPAs in predicting hypercoagulability was 0.71, and the specificity was 0.78. Conclusion: Increased MPAs were correlated with hypercoagulability in nephrotic syndrome. MPAs may serve as a potential biomarker for thrombophilic or hypercoagulable state and provide novel insight into the mechanisms of anticoagulation in nephrotic syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) are known to possess unique characteristics, which allow them to overcome a number of issues that plague traditional fluorescence probes. UCNPs have been employed in a variety of applications, but it is arguably in the realm of optical sensors where they have shown the most promise. Biomolecule conjugated UCNPs-based fluorescence probes have been developed to detect and quantify a wide range of analytes, from metal ions to biomolecules, with great specificity and sensitivity. In this review, we have given much emphasis on the recent trends and progress in the preparation strategies of bioconjugated UCNPs and their potential application as fluorescence sensors in the trace level detection of food industry-based toxicants and adulterants. The paper discusses the preparation and functionalisation strategies of commonly used biomolecules over the surface of UCNPs. The use of different sensing strategies namely heterogenous and homogenous assays, underlying fluorescence mechanisms in the detection process of food adulterants are summarized in detail. This review might set a precedent for future multidisciplinary research including the development of novel biomolecules conjugated UCNPs for potential applications in food science and technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intrinsic quantum nature of molecules opens exciting opportunities for developing the field of quantum information science. In this context, porphyrins stand out as ideal building blocks for quantum technologies thanks to their unique optical and electrical properties as well as their capacity to accommodate metal atoms and ions. This review bridges the chemistry and physics of porphyrins, providing an overview of recent advances in porphyrin‐based molecular qubits. Starting from qubits, the review explores the potential of porphyrin units to combine, leading to the formation of quantum logic gates and hierarchical higher‐dimensional structures. Next, the exploitation of porphyrins' unique photophysical properties for realizing long‐lived high spin states is examined. These states are promising for the photogeneration of multi‐level systems and the optical initialization and control of molecular qubits. With a critical eye on the current state‐of‐the‐art, the review elucidates the future perspectives of porphyrins for advancing quantum technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Methods Results Conclusion To evaluate relationships between plasma concentrations of belantamab mafodotin, total monoclonal antibody, and its payload and changes in electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma from the DREAMM‐1 and DREAMM‐2 studies.Hysteresis plots and linear regression analyses of pharmacokinetic (PK) analyte (belantamab mafodotin, total monoclonal antibody, and cytotoxic cysteine‐maleimidocaproyl monomethyl auristatin F payload) concentrations vs. time‐matched ECG parameters (absolute/change from baseline in QT interval corrected for RR interval [QTc/ΔQTc] and QT interval corrected for heart rate by Fridericia's formula [QTcF/ΔQTcF]) were performed. Concentrations of PK analyte required for a 10‐ms increase in QTc in DREAMM‐2 were calculated via simulation, as was the probability of ΔQTc/ΔQTcF exceeding 10 ms for the expected Cmax of PK analyte concentrations associated with the doses (2.5 and 3.4 mg/kg) administered in DREAMM‐2.Time‐matched PK and ECG data from 290 patients (DREAMM‐1, n = 73; DREAMM‐2, n = 217) were analysed. Hysteresis plots did not clearly indicate any concentration‐related prolongation in QTc or QTcF; regression analyses indicated a very small rate of increase in ΔQTc and ΔQTcF with increasing concentrations of PK analytes. Calculated concentrations of PK analyte required for a 10‐ms prolongation in QTc were higher than the maximum analyte concentrations observed following treatment with belantamab mafodotin in DREAMM‐2; the probability that each dose would prolong ΔQTc and ΔQTcF by >10 ms was 0 and <0.25%, respectively.This study of belantamab mafodotin and its payload did not provide evidence of QT prolongation in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma at clinically relevant doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interplay of topology and optics provides a route to pursue robust photonic devices, with the application to photonic quantum computation in its infancy. However, the possibilities of harnessing topological structures to process quantum information with linear optics, through the quantum interference of photons, remain largely uncharted. Here, we present a Hong-Ou-Mandel interference effect of topological origin. We show that this interference of photon pairs—ranging from constructive to destructive—is solely determined by a synthetic magnetic flux, rendering it resilient to errors on a fundamental level. Our implementation establishes a quantized flux that facilitates exclusively destructive quantum interference. Our findings pave the way toward the development of next-generation photonic quantum circuitry and scalable quantum computing protected by virtue of topologically robust quantum gates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), combining the cytotoxicity of the drug payload with the specificity of monoclonal antibodies, are one of the rapidly evolving classes of anti-cancer agents. These agents have been successfully incorporated into the treatment paradigm of many malignancies, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The NSCLC is the most prevalent subtype of lung cancer, having a considerable burden on the cancer-related mortality and morbidity rates globally. Several ADC molecules are currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be used in patients with NSCLC. However, the successful management of NSCLC patients using these agents was met with several challenges, including the development of resistance and toxicities. These shortcomings resulted in the exploration of novel therapeutic targets that can be targeted by the ADCs. This review aims to explore the recently identified ADC targets along with their oncologic mechanisms. The ADC molecules targeting these biomarkers are further discussed along with the evidence from clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for stretchable strain sensors with customizable sensitivities has increased across a spectrum of applications, spanning from human motion detection to plant growth monitoring. Nevertheless, a major challenge remains in the digital fabrication of scalable and cost‐efficient strain sensors with tailored sensitivity to diverse demands. Currently, there is a lack of simple digital fabrication approaches capable of adjusting strain sensitivity in a controlled way with no changes to the material and without affecting the linearity. In this study, parallel microgates‐based strain sensors whose strain sensitivity can be adjusted systematically throughout an all‐laser‐based fabrication process without any material replacement are presented. The technique employs a two‐step direct laser writing method that combines the well‐established capabilities of laser ablation and laser marking, boasting a varying gauge factor of up to 433% (GF  =  168), while paving the way for the mass production of nanocomposite strain sensors. Parallel microgates‐based strain sensors exhibit a remarkable signal‐to‐noise ratio at ultralow strains (ɛ  =  0.001), rendering them ideal for monitoring the gradual growth of plants. As an application demonstration, the proposed sensors are deployed on tomato plants to capture their growth under varying planting conditions including hydroponic and soil mediums, as well as diverse irrigation regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Methods Results Conclusion To evaluate the potential utility of antibody‐drug conjugates targeting trophoblast cell surface antigen‐2 (TROP‐2) in patients with primary penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC), patients with recurrence (REC cohort), and patient‐matched distant metastases (MET cohort), and to assess the potential use of TROP‐2 as a predictive non‐invasive biomarker in PSCC.A cohort comprising a PRIM (n = 37), REC (n = 5) and MET subcohort (n = 7), with MET including lymph node and lung metastases, was analysed using quantitative real‐time PCR, ELISA and immunohistochemical staining with evaluation of H‐score.TROP‐2 mRNA and serum protein levels were significantly increased in primary and recurrent PSCC compared to cancer‐free controls (both P < 0.001). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that most of the PRIM cohort (n = 34/37, median H‐score 260, interquartile range [IQR] 210–300), as well as all patients in the REC (median [IQR] H‐score 200 [165–290]) and MET cohorts (median [IQR] H‐score 280 [260–300]) exhibited moderate to strong membranous TROP‐2 expression. Additionally, The H‐score (membranous TROP‐2 expression) was positively correlated with TROP‐2 mRNA (ρ = 0.69, P < 0.0001, R2 = 0.70) and protein levels (ρ = 0.86, P < 0.0001, R2 = 0.59), indicating its potential as a non‐invasive biomarker in PSCC.In summary, our results support further studies on TROP‐2 as a diagnostic and therapeutic target in primary, recurrent and metastatic PSCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cell surface of Toxoplasma gondii is rich in glycoconjugates which hold diverse and vital functions in the lytic cycle of this obligate intracellular parasite. Additionally, the cyst wall of bradyzoites, that shields the persistent form responsible for chronic infection from the immune system, is heavily glycosylated. Formation of glycoconjugates relies on activated sugar nucleotides, such as uridine diphosphate N-acetylglucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc). The glucosamine-phosphate-N-acetyltransferase (GNA1) generates N-acetylglucosamine-6-phosphate critical to produce UDP-GlcNAc. Here, we demonstrate that downregulation of T. gondii GNA1 results in a severe reduction of UDP-GlcNAc and a concomitant drop in glycosylphosphatidylinositols (GPIs), leading to impairment of the parasite's ability to invade and replicate in the host cell. Surprisingly, attempts to rescue this defect through exogenous GlcNAc supplementation fail to completely restore these vital functions. In depth metabolomic analyses elucidate diverse causes underlying the failed rescue: utilization of GlcNAc is inefficient under glucose-replete conditions and fails to restore UDP-GlcNAc levels in GNA1-depleted parasites. In contrast, GlcNAc-supplementation under glucose-deplete conditions fully restores UDP-GlcNAc levels but fails to rescue the defects associated with GNA1 depletion. Our results underscore the importance of glucosamine-6-phosphate acetylation in governing T. gondii replication and invasion and highlight the potential of the evolutionary divergent GNA1 in Apicomplexa as a target for the development of much-needed new therapeutic strategies. Author summary: Toxoplasma gondii, Plasmodium, and Cryptosporidium spp., pose serious threats to human health. T. gondii, an intracellular and opportunistic pathogen, effectively avoids the host immune defences by forming long-lasting tissue cysts. Finding potent drugs to eliminate these persisting parasites remains a challenge. The glucosamine-phosphate-N-acetyltransferase (GNA1) catalyses a critical key step in the production of activated sugar nucleotides to build glycoconjugates essential for various functions in the cell. In P. falciparum, this enzyme has been identified as a potential target for antimalarial drugs. In this study, we explored the importance of this pathway in T. gondii and discovered that these sugar-containing compounds play a vital role in the parasite's ability to invade and replicate in host cells–crucial processes for its survival and ability to cause disease. Intriguingly, unlike some organisms that can bypass the pathway, T. gondii relies critically on glucosamine-6-phosphate acetylation. This reliance sheds light on the parasite's distinct metabolic properties and highlights the pathway's potential as a target for new therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Head impacts are a major concern in contact sports and sports with high-speed mobility due to the prevalence of head trauma events and their dire consequences. Surrogates of human heads are required in laboratory testing to safely explore the efficacy of impact-mitigating mechanisms. This work proposes using polymer additive manufacturing technologies to obtain a substitute for the human skull to be filled with a silicone-based brain surrogate. This assembly was instrumentalized with an Inertial Measurement Unit. Its performance was compared to a standard Hybrid III head form in validation tests using commercial headgear. The tests involved impact velocities in a range centered around 5 m/s. The results show a reasonable homology between the head substitutes, with a disparity in the impact response within 20% between the proposed surrogate and the standard head form. The head surrogate herein developed can be easily adapted to other morphologies and will significantly decrease the cost of the laboratory testing of head protection equipment, all while ensuring the safety of the testing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]