bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Russian entrepreneurs in exile: Manchuria, 1920s.
Authors: Nechaeva Anzhelika Sergeevna
Published: October 2023

The article examines the main directions and problems of the development of Russian entrepreneurship in Northeast China in the 1920s. Based on the analysis of the emigrant press and reference literature of the 1920s, documents of Soviet foreign policy, as well as the results of scientific research, the author assesses the activities of entrepreneurs and the difficulties that complicated it. The question describes the activities of the white emigrant industries established before the 1917 Revolution and the Civil War on the territory of the former Russian Empire (1917–1922); the impact of European and North American business on the development of the economy of Manchuria in general and on Russian business in particular; the impact of the multinational composition of the Russian diaspora on the specifics of the development of white immigrant entrepreneurship; the activities of charitable organizations that actively supported emigrants in difficult life situations; the growing needs of the population in connection with the improvement of the quality of work and the growth of production activity. Summing up the research, the author notes the following points that caused difficulties in the sphere of entrepreneurial activity of Russians: unstable financial market; the presence of competition in the face of European merchants; restrictions on the part of local authorities caused by the growth of Chinese nationalism; the Soviet-Chinese conflict over the status of the CER, which not only brought regular income to white immigrants, but also provided many jobs; as well as an increase in the number of Hunghuz gangs due to weak protection of the North-eastern suburbs. Despite all the existing problems, the Russian diaspora in the 1920s made a significant contribution to the economy of the region, engaging in trade, the development of new industries, the creation of the banking system, participation in charity events.
Bioefficacy of engineered Beauveria bassiana with scorpion neurotoxin, LqqIT1 against cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis and cowpea aphid, Aphis craccivora
Authors: Rajput Sonam , Suroshe Sachin S. , Yadav Purnmasi Ram , Kumar Anoop , Saini Gurvinder Kaur
Published: October 2023

Cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis (Tinsley) and cowpea aphid Aphis craccivora (Koch) are notorious polyphagous, hemipteran sap sucking insect pests. A recombinant toxin gene ‘LqqIT1’ from the scorpion Leiurus quinquestriatus quinquestriatus (Ehrenberg) was cloned in the pAL1 fungal expression vector and then expressed in the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Balasmo) using genetic modification techniques. The genetically transformed B. bassiana strain (BbLqqIT1-3) and its un-transformed parent strain (Bb-C) were screened to infect the third instar nymphs of P. solenopsis and first instar nymph of A. craccivora through leaf treatment and topical application (spray) method at 1 * 107 spores per ml concentration. The recombinant strain BbLqqIT1-3 was highly pathogenic against A. craccivora but non pathogenic to P. solenopsis. BbLqqIT1-3 induced 72 and 43.33% mortality in A. craccivora nymphs 96 h after leaf treatment and topical application, respectively. The nymphs of A. craccivora infected with BbLqqIT1-3 displayed classical neurotoxic symptoms such as sluggishness, solublize and liquification of the body. Crude soluble toxin protein, BbLqqIT1a-CSE and Bb-WT-CSE was extracted from the BbLqqIT1-3 and Bb-C, respectively using ammonium sulphate precipitation method, and their oral toxicity was analyzed at 5 µg/ml concentration. The survival of the studied insects was negatively affected by the crude soluble toxin extracts. The LT50 values of BbLqqIT1a-CSE against P. solenopsis and A. craccivora were 22.18 and 17.69 h, respectively. Exposure to crude soluble toxin extracts also accounted for the imbalance of ionic concentrations in the hemolymph of treated insects such as hyperpotassemia (3.53–8.18 meq/ml) in the P. solenopsis and hypopotassemia (7.52–0.47 meq/ml) in A. craccivora. The transformed fungus BbLqqIT1-3 strain exhibited promising results in invitro study.
Soil Carbon Sequestration in the Age of Climate Change: A Review
Authors: Murali M. , Gayathri M. , Singh Vikash , Raj Sumit , Singh Veerendra , Chaubey Chandrakant , Inamdar Fatima
Published: October 2023

Soil carbon sequestration has garnered attention as a pivotal strategy in mitigating climate change. Its relevance is accentuated by the soil's dual role in both storing carbon and supporting agriculture, thereby contributing to both environmental and food security. The purpose of this review is to analyze the various facets of soil carbon sequestration in the Indian context, specifically focusing on case studies that highlight both successes and failures in this realm. Key findings indicate that multifaceted approaches, such as agroforestry models in Tamil Nadu and community-led natural farming in Andhra Pradesh, have been effective in enhancing soil carbon stocks. These approaches are not only beneficial for carbon sequestration but also demonstrate positive implications for farm yield and biodiversity. However, the study also uncovers shortcomings in soil management practices, evident in the decline of soil carbon levels in regions such as Punjab due to monoculture and excessive fertilizer use. The consequences of such practices manifest in reduced soil fertility, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable agricultural methods. In fragile ecosystems like the Himalayan region, soil erosion has further reduced the soil's ability to act as a carbon sink, indicating the necessity for immediate conservation efforts. These findings imply that an integrated approach, coupling agricultural innovation with policy support, can substantially improve the effectiveness of soil as a carbon sequester. Moreover, it is essential for policies to be adaptive and region-specific, accounting for the diverse geographical and climatic conditions across India. This review aims to serve as a comprehensive guide for policymakers, researchers, and agricultural practitioners, emphasizing that soil carbon sequestration is not an isolated goal but must be integrated into broader environmental and agricultural objectives.
Complexity in the US Health Care System Is the Enemy of Access and Affordability
Authors: Levitt Larry , Altman Drew
Published: October 2023

This JAMA Forum discusses the complexity of the US health care system, including the types of coverage and many plans offered, denial or other problems accessing coverage, and confusion regarding explanations of benefits and billing issues.
Tumor Mutational Burden Testing in Solid Tumors
Authors: Kwon Regina , Cheng Heather H. , Pritchard Colin C.
Published: October 2023

A 58-year-old man with diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and JAK2-positive myeloproliferative neoplasm is referred for newly diagnosed oligometastatic prostate cancer with substantial urinary symptoms. What would you do next?
Symptomatic Necrosis With Antibody-Drug Conjugates and Concurrent Stereotactic Radiotherapy for Brain Metastases
Authors: Lebow Emily S. , Pike Luke R. G. , Seidman Andrew D. , Moss Nelson , Beal Kathryn , Yu Yao
Published: October 2023

This cohort study investigates whether brain metastases that manifest after stereotactic radiotherapy with concurrent antibody-drug conjugates are associated with an increased risk of symptomatic radiation necrosis.
Cyberbullying process in US adolescents and their parents: Testing and extending the Barlett Gentile cyberbullying model
Authors: Barlett Christopher P.
Published: October 2023

The purpose of the current research was to test the dual processes involved in predicting cyberbullying perpetration in a sample of US parent−child dyads. The Barlett Gentile cyberbullying model (BGCM) posits how positive cyberbullying attitudes mediate the relationship between anonymity perceptions and cyberbullying perpetration; however, less is known about (a) whether this mediated link is significant for youth and adults alike, (b) if the strength of the relationships in the BGCM differ between youth and adults, and (c) the role of child (or parent) perceptions of their parent's (or child's) cyberbullying behavior has on cyberbullying. Two hundred US parent−child dyads completed measures to assess cyberbullying perpetration, cyberbullying attitudes, cyberbullying perceptions, and anonymity perceptions. Results showed support for BGCM postulates for parents and adolescents; however, the mediated relationship was stronger for youth than adults. Moreover, cyberbullying perceptions correlated strongly with cyberbullying attitudes and cyberbullying perpetration. Results are discussed in terms of theory and intervention applications.
Feasibility and Utility of a Pilot Peer Education Program to Improve Patient Engagement in Lupus Clinical Trials: Implementation and Evaluation in a Multisite Model Within a Lupus Clinical Trials Network
Authors: Sheikh Saira Z. , Donovan Caroline , Menezes Carla , Roy Albert T. , Simkus Andrew , Gross Diane , Askanase Anca , Ramsey‐Goldman Rosalind , Majithia Vikas , Wanty Nicole , McNeill Annie , Holtz Kristen , Lim S. Sam
Published: October 2023

Objective

To assess outcomes related to Lupus Therapeutics’ Patient Advocates for Lupus Studies (LT‐PALS), a peer‐to‐peer lupus clinical trial (LCT) education program designed to improve representation of diverse groups in LCTs. Patients with lupus and clinical trial participation experience were trained as peer educators (PALs) providing trial‐agnostic education to trial‐naive patients with lupus.

Methods

We used a two‐arm, randomized pretest/posttest study design to evaluate outcomes related to LCT participation: knowledge, attitudes, self‐efficacy, and intentions to participate in an LCT. Five academic medical centers piloted the program. The intervention group (IG) individually received peer‐to‐peer education sessions with trained PALs, primarily via telephone; the control group (CG) received a 3‐week waiting period. We conducted within/between‐group t‐tests and multiple linear regressions with posttest scores as dependent variables and participation in LT‐PALS as the exposure variable.

Results

The sample (n = 136) included 64 IG and 72 CG participants, with 67.7% identifying as Black. At posttest, IG participants had higher knowledge (P < 0.01) scores than the CG participants. Regression models controlling for participant characteristics showed higher IG posttest scores for knowledge (P < 0.001) and intentions (P < 0.05). From pretest to 3‐month follow‐up, IG self‐efficacy scores increased (P < 0.01). About half (46.9%) of IG participants reported engagement with an LCT at 1‐year follow‐up. Black and Hispanic participants rated higher overall program satisfaction compared with White (P < 0.01) and non‐Hispanic (P < 0.05) participants.

Conclusion

Findings demonstrated feasibility of LT‐PALS and showed promise in increasing engagement from groups underrepresented in LCTs.
Improved sliding mode observer based repetitive control for linear systems with time‐varying input and state delays
Authors: Chuei Raymond , Zheng Yusai , Cao Zhenwei , Man Zhihong
Published: October 2023

Control systems are frequently subject to the negative effects of time delays and disturbances, which diminish the systems' tracking performance. In response to these challenges, this paper presents a novel approach, that is, the improved sliding mode observer based repetitive control (ISMO‐RC), to enhance the system's periodic signal tracking in the presence of the input and state time delays and the input disturbances. The design takes the advantages of RC and ISMO, in which RC effectively compensates periodic signals, while ISMO compensates both aperiodic disturbances and the time‐varying input and state delays. The stability of the whole system is guaranteed via the linear matrix inequality (LMI) and the Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional analysis. The proposed controller is evaluated through extensive simulations and experiments, which demonstrate its superiority over comparative control methods.
Photo‐Compartmentalized Decellularized Matrix‐Hyaluronan Hybrid Units for Pancreatic Tumor‐Stroma Modeling
Authors: Monteiro Maria V. , Henriques‐Pereira Margarida , Neves Bruno M. , Duarte Iola D. , Gaspar Vítor M. , Mano João F.
Published: October 2023

Tissue‐derived decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) provides unique biomolecular cues for bioengineering 3D tumor models with increasingly physiomimetic features. This biomimicry potential can be expanded by combining dECM with key components of native tissues, such as glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Yet, this combination remains highly challenging, often requiring complex non‐natural chemical modifications of dECM biomaterials. Taking advantage of naturally occurring tyrosine moieties, herein a universally applicable methodology is proposed for generating dECM‐Hyaluronic acid (HA)‐tyramine hydrogels. Enriching dECM with HA, is particularly relevant for modeling tumor‐stroma interplay in vitro. By using visible light crosslinking, pancreatic tissue‐specific dECM‐HA‐Tyr tumor‐stroma compartmentalyzed platforms are rapidly fabricated on‐demand, in superhydrophobic surfaces, while avoiding complex dECM chemical modifications. The generated dECM‐HA‐Tyr spherically shaped models are able to mimic the desmoplastic stromal environment and are employed for dual screening of pancreatic anti‐stromal and anti‐tumoral therapeutics. The tumor‐stroma models display higher susceptibility to gemcitabine following a first treatment with anti‐stroma therapeutics. The developed photo‐compartmentalized models ultimately allow to decouple the tumor and stroma compartment, thus enabling the inclusion of other stromal/cancer cells. Moreover, the possibility of combining dECM with virtually any class of tyramine‐functionalized macromolecules via on‐demand photocrosslinking as herein proposed, extends the use of such hybrid dECM hydrogels.
Statically Very Hydrophilic but Dynamically Hydrophobic Surfaces Showing Surprising Water Sliding Performance
Authors: Nakamura Satoshi , Kakiuchida Hiroshi , Okada Masahisa , Hozumi Atsushi
Published: October 2023

It is generally believed that water droplets on (super)hydrophilic surfaces is spread and strongly pin to the surface. The surface chemistry that achieves the paradoxical surface properties of being statically very hydrophilic, but exhibiting outstanding water sliding properties, has not yet established. Here, a facile approach to prepare such unusual surfaces based on a combination of a sol–gel process using an organosilane containing polyethylene glycol units and tetraethoxysilane, and subsequent alkali‐treatment is reported. The resulting sol–gel thin films are smooth, transparent, hydrophilic (static contact angle (CA) (θS) of ≈37°) and show a liquid‐like nature with both low CA hysteresis (≈4°) and sliding angle (α) for 10 µL water droplets (≈10°). Surprisingly, after alkali‐treatment for sufficient time, the surface becomes very hydrophilic (θS of ≈14°) while improving its dynamic wetting behaviors (CA hysteresis of ≈3° and α for 10 µL water droplet of ≈4°), such that even a mere 0.5 µL water drop can slide down smoothly without pinning and/or tailing.
Ecofriendly Transfer Printing for Biodegradable Electronics Using Adhesion Controllable Self‐Assembled Monolayers
Authors: Lee Seung‐Min , Lee Woo‐Jin , Bae Jae‐Young , Gu Ji‐Woo , Lee Seunghwan , Yeo Ki Baek , Lee Jaewook , Kim Joon‐Woo , Lee Ju‐Yong , Kim Jeonghyun , Jang Hyejin , Jun Sang Ho , Kang Seung‐Kyun
Published: October 2023

The biodegradable electronics are on the rise, not just due to their role in medical implants, but also because of their eco‐friendly attributes. A variety of methods, including transfer printing, have been employed to integrate inorganic electronics onto biodegradable polymer substrates. However, the use of expensive materials, multiple intermediary steps, and labor‐intensive procedures can undermine their environment‐friendly benefits. Here, a straightforward yet efficient fabrication method is introduced for creating high‐performance biodegradable electronic devices. This method leverages the controlled adhesion between the biodegradable device and substrate using self‐assembled monolayers of octadecyltrichlorosilane. Mechanical and thermal analyses based on scratch tests and time‐domain thermoreflectance quantify the adhesion by adjusting the packing density of octadecyltrichlorosilane. Controlled adhesion allows the photolithography process without delamination while facilitating easy delamination during transfer printing. The authors demonstrate the direct fabrication of electronics consisted of inorganic materials (Mg, Zn, SiO2, Si nanomembrane) on wafers and transfer‐printing onto polymer substrates via a single transfer step. This streamlined approach enables wafer‐scale fabrication of biodegradable electronics, highlighting its potential for mass manufacturing. Pilot conceptual demonstration of mass‐produced edible hydration sensors and their application in salivation measurement through in vivo model show the potential capability of proposed fabrication method in the use of practical level.
Self‐Doping and Self‐Acid‐Doping of Conjugated Polymer Bioelectronics: The Case for Accuracy in Nomenclature
Authors: Fidanovski Kristina , Gu Modi , Travaglini Lorenzo , Lauto Antonio , Mawad Damia
Published: October 2023

Conjugated polymers are enabling the development of flexible bioelectronics, largely driven by their organic nature which facilitates modification and tuning to suit a variety of applications. As organic semiconductors, conjugated polymers require a dopant to exhibit electrical conductivity, which in physiological conditions can result in dopant loss and thereby deterioration in electronic properties. To overcome this challenge, “self‐doped” and self‐acid‐doped conjugated polymers having ionized pendant groups covalently bound to their backbone are being developed. The ionized group in a “self‐doped” polymer behaves as the counterion that maintains electroneutrality, while an external dopant is required to induce charge transfer. The ionized group in a self‐acid‐doped polymer induces charge transfer and behaves as the counterion balancing the charges. Despite their doping processes being different, the two terms, self‐doped and self‐acid‐doped, are often used interchangeably in the literature. Here, the differences are highlighted in the doping mechanisms of self‐doped and self‐acid‐doped polymers, and it is proposed that the term “self‐doped” should be replaced by “self‐compensated,” while reserving the term self‐acid‐doped for polymers that are intrinsically doped without the need of an external dopant. This is followed by a summary of examples of self‐acid‐doping in bioelectronics, highlighting their stability in the conductive state under physiological conditions.
Synthesis of α‐Quaternary Carboxylic Acids through Cu‐Catalyzed Hydrocarboxylation of Allenes with Diisobutylaluminum Hydride and Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Lee Sanghyun , Lee Yunmi
Published: October 2023

A regioselective method for synthesizing β,γ‐unsaturated α‐quaternary carboxylic acids through the copper‐catalyzed hydrocarboxylation of allenes with CO2 is described. Allenes undergo hydroalumination with diisobutylaluminum hydride, followed by carboxylation of the resulting allylaluminum intermediate. The presence of an N‐heterocyclic carbene ligand is essential for enhancing the reactivity of the reaction. The good functional group compatibility of the reaction allows the synthesis of a wide range of functionalized α‐quaternary carboxylic acids with high regio‐ and stereoselectivities for synthetic and medicinal applications.
Rh‐catalyzed Asymmetric C(sp3)−H Arylation of 8‐Benzylquinolines with Arylboronic Acids
Authors: Zhang Zuo‐Yu , Gou Bo‐Bo , Wang Quannan , Gu Qing , You Shu‐Li
Published: October 2023

Rh‐catalyzed asymmetric C(sp3)−H arylation of 8‐benzylquinolines with arylboronic acids was developed. In the presence of 5 mol% BINOL‐derived chiral cyclopentadienyl rhodium complex, asymmetric benzylic C(sp3)−H bond arylation reaction proceeded smoothly to afford a series of enantioenriched triarylmethanes in moderate to good yields with good to excellent enantioselective control (24–89% yields, 63–93% ee). The method displays a broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance under mild conditions.
In Vivo Behavior of Systemically Administered Encapsulin Protein Nanocages and Implications for their use in Targeted Drug Delivery
Authors: Rennie Claire , Sives Caitlin , Boyton India , Diaz Dennis , Gorrie Catherine , Vittorio Orazio , Collins‐Praino Lyndsey , Care Andrew
Published: October 2023

Encapsulins, self‐assembling protein nanocages derived from prokaryotes, are promising nanoparticle‐based drug delivery systems (NDDS). However, the in vivo behavior and fate of encapsulins are poorly understood. In this study, the interactions between the model encapsulin from Thermotoga maritima (TmEnc) and key biological barriers encountered by NDDS are probed. Here, a purified TmEnc formulation that exhibits colloidal stability, storability, and blood compatibility is intravenously injected into BALB/c mice. TmEnc has an excellent nanosafety profile, with no abnormal weight loss or gross pathology observed, and only temporary alterations in toxicity biomarkers are detected. Notably, TmEnc demonstrates immunogenic properties, inducing the generation of nanocage‐specific IgM and IgG antibodies, but without any prolonged pro‐inflammatory effects. An absence of antibody cross‐reactivity also suggests immune‐orthogonality among encapsulin systems. Moreover, TmEnc forms a serum‐derived protein corona on its surface which changes dynamically and appears to play a role in immune recognition. TmEnc's biodistribution profile further reveals its sequestration from the blood circulation by the liver and then biodegrades within Kupffer cells, thus indicating clearance via the mononuclear phagocyte system. Collectively, these findings provide critical insights into how encapsulins behave in vivo, thereby informing their future design, modification, and application in targeted drug delivery.
Multi‐Scale Label‐Free Human Brain Imaging with Integrated Serial Sectioning Polarization Sensitive Optical Coherence Tomography and Two‐Photon Microscopy
Authors: Chang Shuaibin , Yang Jiarui , Novoseltseva Anna , Abdelhakeem Ayman , Hyman Mackenzie , Fu Xinlei , Li Chenglin , Chen Shih‐Chi , Augustinack Jean C. , Magnain Caroline , Fischl Bruce , Mckee Ann C. , Boas David A. , Chen Ichun Anderson , Wang Hui
Published: October 2023

The study of aging and neurodegenerative processes in the human brain requires a comprehensive understanding of cytoarchitectonic, myeloarchitectonic, and vascular structures. Recent computational advances have enabled volumetric reconstruction of the human brain using thousands of stained slices, however, tissue distortions and loss resulting from standard histological processing have hindered deformation‐free reconstruction. Here, the authors describe an integrated serial sectioning polarization‐sensitive optical coherence tomography (PSOCT) and two photon microscopy (2PM) system to provide label‐free multi‐contrast imaging of intact brain structures, including scattering, birefringence, and autofluorescence of human brain tissue. The authors demonstrate high‐throughput reconstruction of 4 × 4 × 2cm3 sample blocks and simple registration between PSOCT and 2PM images that enable comprehensive analysis of myelin content, vascular structure, and cellular information. The high‐resolution 2PM images provide microscopic validation and enrichment of the cellular information provided by the PSOCT optical properties on the same sample, revealing the densely packed fibers, capillaries, and lipofuscin‐filled cell bodies in the cortex and white matter. It is  shown that the imaging system enables quantitative characterization of various pathological features in aging process, including myelin degradation, lipofuscin accumulation, and microvascular changes, which opens up numerous opportunities in the study of neurodegenerative diseases in the future.
Photodriven Methane Conversion on Transition Metal Oxide Catalyst: Recent Progress and Prospects
Authors: Wang Pu , Shi Run , Zhao Jiaqi , Zhang Tierui
Published: October 2023

Methane as the main component in natural gas is a promising chemical raw material for synthesizing value‐added chemicals, but its harsh chemical conversion process often causes severe energy and environment concerns. Photocatalysis provides an attractive path to active and convert methane into various products under mild conditions with clean and sustainable solar energy, although many challenges remain at present. In this review, recent advances in photocatalytic methane conversion are systematically summarized. As the basis of methane conversion, the activation of methane is first elucidated from the structural basis and activation path of methane molecules. The study is committed to categorizing and elucidating the research progress and the laws of the intricate methane conversion reactions according to the target products, including photocatalytic methane partial oxidation, reforming, coupling, combustion, and functionalization. Advanced photocatalytic reactor designs are also designed to enrich the options and reliability of photocatalytic methane conversion performance evaluation. The challenges and prospects of photocatalytic methane conversion are also discussed, which in turn offers guidelines for methane‐conversion‐related photocatalyst exploration, reaction mechanism investigation, and advanced photoreactor design.
Cover crops impact phosphorus cycling and environmental efficiency in a corn–soybean system
Authors: Bourns Megan A. , Nelson Nathan O. , Carver R. Elliott , Roozeboom Kraig L. , Kluitenberg Gerard J. , Tomlinson Peter J. , Kang Qing , Hettiarachchi Ganga M.
Published: October 2023

Solutions to simultaneously meet crop phosphorus (P) demand and reduce P loss from agricultural systems are required to improve the sustainability of our production. Our objective was to determine the effect of cover crop addition (with cover crop [CC], and without cover crop [NC]) and P fertilizer management (zero P control [CN], fall broadcast [FB], and spring injected [SI]) on P cycling, agronomic P use efficiency (PUE), and environmental P use efficiency (EPUE), measured as the percent of P lost in runoff water, in a no‐till corn (Zea mays)–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] rotation. The experiment was a 2 × 3 factorial. Both FB and SI increased P cycling through the main crop and cover crop tissue, compared to the CN. Cover crop did not affect main crop P uptake, removal in grain, or return to soil in crop residue, but CC treatment increased total P uptake and return in the system. Cover crop effects on P uptake, removal, and return were the same regardless of P fertilization treatments. Phosphorus fertilizer and CC treatments did not affect PUE. Both FB and SI P fertilizer management decreased EPUE, although SI tended to decrease EPUE less than FB. Cover crop significantly improved EPUE only in 2019, when CC reduced erosion losses. Therefore, cover crops were not consistently beneficial for reducing the environmental effects of P fertilization, and their use cannot replace the importance of sound P fertilizer stewardship, including sub‐surface P placement. However, cover crops play an important role in improving EPUE in years with high erosion loss potential.
High‐Pressure Fabrication of Binary Organic Solar Cells with High Molecular Weight D18 Yields Record 19.65 % Efficiency
Authors: Lu Hao , Liu Wenlong , Ran Guangliu , Liang Zezhou , Li Hongxiang , Wei Nan , Wu Hongbo , Ma Zaifei , Liu Yahui , Zhang Wenkai , Xu Xinjun , Bo Zhishan
Published: October 2023

In this work, inspired by the principles of a pressure cooker, we utilized a high‐pressure method to address the processing challenges associated with high molecular weight polymers. Through this approach, we successfully dissolved high molecular weight D18 in chloroform at 100 °C within a pressure‐tight vial. The increased steam pressure raised the boiling point and dissolving capacity of chloroform, enabling the creation of a hybrid film with superior properties, including more ordered molecular arrangement, increased crystallinity, extended exciton diffusion length, and improved phase morphology. Organic solar cells (OSCs) based on D18 : L8‐BO prepared using this high‐pressure method achieved an outstanding power conversion efficiency of 19.65 %, setting a new record for binary devices to date. Furthermore, this high‐pressure method was successfully applied to fabricate OSCs based on other common systems, leading to significant enhancements in device performance. In summary, this research introduces a universal method for processing high molecular weight D18 materials, ultimately resulting in the highest performance reported for binary organic solar cells.
A single 8‐hydroxyquinoline‐appended bile acid fluorescent probe obtained by click chemistry for solvent‐dependent and distinguishable sensing of zinc(II) and cadmium(II)
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Zou Yuan , Liu Jihua
Published: October 2023

Construction of fluorescent probes for zinc ion (Zn2+) and cadmium ion (Cd2+) is significant for the safety of humans. However, the discriminating recognition of Zn2+ and Cd2+ by a single probe remains challenging owing to their similar properties. Herein, a novel deoxycholic acid derivative containing 8‐hydroxyquinoline fluorophore has been facilely synthesized through click chemistry to form a clamp‐like probe. Using its perfect bonding cavity from 1,2,3‐triazole and quinoline, this molecule showed favorable solvent‐dependent fluorescent responses and distinguished Zn2+ and Cd2+ in different solvents. In ethanol aqueous solution, it displayed good selectivity and ratiometric fluorescence to Zn2+ with 30 nm spectroscopic red‐shifts. In acetonitrile aqueous solution, it exhibited good selectivity and ratiometric fluorescence to Cd2+ with 18 nm spectroscopic red‐shifts. Moreover, the unique microstructural features of the probe in assembly were used to reflect its recognition processes. Due to its merits of low detection limit and instant response time, the probe was utilized for sensing Zn2+ and Cd2+ in water, beer and urine with high accuracy. Meanwhile, this probe served as a handy tool and was employed to obtain inexpensive test strips for the prompt and semiqualitative analysis of Zn2+ and Cd2+ with the naked eye.
A novel screening method of DNA methylation biomarkers helps to improve the detection of colorectal cancer and precancerous lesions
Authors: Li Yuan , Li Bin , Jiang Rou , Liao Leen , Zheng Chunting , Yuan Jie , Zeng Liuhong , Hu Kunling , Zhang Yuyu , Mei Weijian , Hong Zhigang , Xiao Binyi , Kong Lingheng , Han Kai , Tang Jinghua , Jiang Wu , Pan Zhizhong , Zhang Shenyan , Ding Peirong
Published: October 2023

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies, and early detection plays a crucial role in enhancing curative outcomes. While colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for CRC diagnosis, noninvasive screening methods of DNA methylation biomarkers can improve the early detection of CRC and precancerous lesions.

Methods

Bioinformatics and machine learning methods were used to evaluate CRC‐related genes within the TCGA database. By identifying the overlapped genes, potential biomarkers were selected for further validation. Methylation‐specific PCR (MSP) was utilized to identify the associated genes as biomarkers. Subsequently, a real‐time PCR assay for detecting the presence of neoplasia or cancer of the colon or rectum was established. This screening approach involved the recruitment of 978 participants from five cohorts.

Results

The genes with the highest specificity and sensitivity were Septin9, AXL4, and SDC2. A total of 940 participants were involved in the establishment of the final PCR system and the subsequent performance evaluation test. A multiplex TaqMan real‐time PCR system has been illustrated to greatly enhance the ability to detect precancerous lesions and achieved an accuracy of 87.8% (95% CI 82.9–91.5), a sensitivity of 82.7% (95% CI 71.8–90.1), and a specificity of 90.1% (95% CI 84.3–93.9). Moreover, the detection rate of precancerous lesions of this assay reached 55.0% (95% CI 38.7–70.4).

Conclusion

The combined detection of the methylation status of SEPT9, SDC2, and ALX4 in plasma holds the potential to further enhance the sensitivity of CRC detection.
Distribution of regional lymph lode metastasis in unilateral nasopharyngeal carcinoma and the suggestions for selective prophylactic irradiation with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy
Authors: Lin Feifei , Qiu Zichen , Xie Dehuan , Zhou Xiong , Wang Lei , Wu Zheng , Cheng Wanqin , Lyu Shaowen , Su Yong , Tao Yalan
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To address the regional lymph node (RLN) distribution and the long‐term efficacy in unilateral nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), providing elective irradiation for RLN with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT).

Methods

The involvement of clinical data of 136 patients with unilateral NPC, who underwent IMRT from November 2003 to December 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. The therapeutic effect and failure pattern of RLN metastasis were evaluated.

Results

Of 57.1% patients have bilateral RLN metastasis. The rate of contralateral RLNs metastasis is lower than that of ipsilateral RLNs. Contralateral RLN metastasis mainly occurs in level VIIa (39.0%) and II (38.2%). While level IVa is only 0.7%, and none of RLN metastasis was found in level IVb and Va. The median follow‐up was 70 months, and the 3‐, 5‐and 10‐year regional recurrence‐free survival (RRFS) were 94.1%, 93.1%, and 93.1%, respectively.

Conclusion

Routine prophylactic irradiation may not include contralateral lower neck LN and level Va for N0‐1 unilateral NPC.
Green and Scalable Biopolymer‐Based Aqueous Polyelectrolyte Complexes for Zinc‐Ion Charge Storage Devices
Authors: Fernández‐Benito Amparo , Martinez‐López Juan Carlos , Javad Jafari Mohammad , Solin Niclas , Martinez Jose G. , Garcia‐Gimenez Daniel , Ederth Thomas , Inganäs Olle , Carretero‐González Javier
Published: October 2023

Green and scalable materials are essential to fulfill the need of electrification for transitioning into a fossil‐fuels free society, and sustainability is a requirement for all new technologies. Rechargeable batteries are one of the most important elements for electrification, enabling the transition to mobile electronics, electrical vehicles and grid storage. We here report synthesis and characterization of polyelectrolyte complexes of alginate and chitosan, both biopolymers deriving from the sea, for transport of zinc ions in hydrogel electrolytes. We have used vibrational spectroscopy, thermal measurements and microscopy, as well as transport measurements with ohmic or blocking contacts. The transference number for zinc ions is close to 1, the conductivity is ≈10 mS/cm, with stability at Zn interfaces seen through 7000 cycles in symmetric zinc//zinc cell.
Deoxidation Electrolysis of Hematite in Alkaline Solution: Impact of Cell Configuration and Process Parameters on Reduction Efficiency
Authors: Fayaz Reza , Bösing Ingmar , La Mantia Fabio , Baune Michael , Hanafi Md Izzuddin Jundullah , Gesing Thorsten M. , Thöming Jorg
Published: October 2023

Recent research is investigating deoxidation electrolysis for eco‐friendly iron extraction. However, many parameters are not fully understood and inconsistencies in reported Faradaic efficiencies pose challenges for finding the most suitable experimental conditions. Thus, we investigated the dependence of hematite reduction efficiency on process parameters and cell configurations. Firstly, we studied the influence of the anode material. The experiments included cyclic voltammetry to identify the redox potentials, electrolysis, and X‐ray diffraction followed by Rietveld refinement to analyze the pellets after electrolysis. In some cases, scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy was employed to track the elemental map of the cathode pellets. Nickel/iron alloy, a well‐known oxygen‐evolving electrocatalyst material, clearly outperformed other anode materials, namely graphite, titanium, nickel, and platinum. Subsequent investigations explored the impact of an inert atmosphere and anode‐cathode decoupling on Faradaic efficiency. The findings indicated that the decline in Faradaic efficiency cannot be solely attributed to the hydrogen evolution reaction, but also to other parasitic effects such as carbon cycles. Additionally, we employed energy consumption measurements as a mean of comparing the process against established extractive methodologies. The required energy consumption by electrolysis is up to 46 % lower than that of a blast furnace.
Synthesis, Structure and Reactivity of a Mononuclear N,N,O‐Bound Fe(II) α‐Keto‐Acid Complex
Authors: Monkcom Emily C. , Gómez Laura , Lutz Martin , Ye Shengfa , Bill Eckhard , Costas Miquel , Klein Gebbink Robertus J. M.
Published: October 2023

A bulky, tridentate phenolate ligand (ImPh2NNOtBu) was used to synthesise the first example of a mononuclear, facial, N,N,O‐bound iron(II) benzoylformate complex, [Fe(ImPh2NNOtBu)(BF)] (2). The X‐ray crystal structure of 2 reveals that the iron centre is pentacoordinate (τ=0.5), with a vacant site located cis to the bidentate BF ligand. The Mössbauer parameters of 2 are consistent with high‐spin iron(II), and are very close to those reported for α‐ketoglutarate‐bound non‐heme iron enzyme active sites. According to NMR and UV‐vis spectroscopies, the structural integrity of 2 is retained in both coordinating and non‐coordinating solvents. Cyclic voltammetry studies show that the iron centre has a very low oxidation potential and is more prone to electrochemical oxidation than the redox‐active phenolate ligand. Complex 2 reacts with NO to form a S=3/2 {FeNO}7 adduct in which NO binds directly to the iron centre, according to EPR, UV‐vis, IR spectroscopies and DFT analysis. Upon O2 exposure, 2 undergoes oxidative decarboxylation to form a diiron(III) benzoate complex, [Fe2(ImPh2NNOtBu)2(μ2‐OBz)(μ2‐OH)2]+ (3). A small amount of hydroxylated ligand was also observed by ESI‐MS, hinting at the formation of a high‐valent iron(IV)‐oxo intermediate. Initial reactivity studies show that 2 is capable of oxygen atom transfer reactivity with O2, converting methyl(p‐tolyl)sulfide to sulfoxide.
Hash message authentication codes for securing data in wireless body area networks
Authors: Nagasundharamoorthi Insozhan , Venkatesan Prabhu , Velusamy Parthasarathy
Published: October 2023

There are numerous medical applications for the growing use of wireless body area networks (WBANs), including remote patient health monitoring, early illness detection, and computer‐assisted rehabilitation. WBAN links many sensor nodes implanted or affixed to the human body to monitor physiological data. WBAN technology has the potential to benefit medical healthcare systems tremendously. However, the gathering and transferring sensitive physiological data in an unprotected environment raises severe security and privacy concerns. The limited resources and broadcast transmission of a WBAN pose grave safety issues in biomedical applications. Keeping sensitive patient data safe during broadcasts is critical in the healthcare business. As a result of the massive memory and processing requirements required by traditional public or private key architectures, tiny sensor nodes cannot use them. WBAN sensor nodes can communicate securely using the KHMAC key‐agreement technique proposed in this article. Measurements and confirmations of shared physiological parameters at the transmitter and recipient sensors are key to the proposed protocol KHMAC before communication is established. The proposed KHMAC protocol enables sensors to use their prior session knowledge for secure communication within a predetermined time window. This will shorten the time it takes to establish a shared key, prevent the retransmission of extracted characteristics in the medium and eavesdropping attacks, and preserve the unpredictability of the key. Both the feature extraction and key agreement stages will be shown to have higher precision and lower error rates with KHMAC's proposed key management methodology. The proposed protocol is proven to be more energy and memory efficient than existing key agreement systems.
Insights into Hildebrand Solubility Parameters – Contributions from Cohesive Energies or Electrophilicity Densities?**
Authors: Miranda‐Quintana Ramón Alain , Chen Lexin , Smiatek Jens
Published: October 2023

We introduce certain concepts and expressions from conceptual density functional theory (DFT) to study the properties of the Hildebrand solubility parameter. The original form of the Hildebrand solubility parameter is used to qualitatively estimate solubilities for various apolar and aprotic substances and solvents and is based on the square root of the cohesive energy density. Our results show that a revised expression allows the replacement of cohesive energy densities by electrophilicity densities, which are numerically accessible by simple DFT calculations. As an extension, the reformulated expression provides a deeper interpretation of the main contributions and, in particular, emphasizes the importance of charge transfer mechanisms. All calculated values of the Hildebrand parameters for a large number of common solvents are compared with experimental values and show good agreement for non‐ or moderately polar aprotic solvents in agreement with the original formulation of the Hildebrand solubility parameters. The observed deviations for more polar and protic solvents define robust limits from the original formulation which remain valid. Likewise, we show that the use of machine learning methods leads to only slightly better predictability.
A case of reflux laryngitis after iodine staining for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Yatsuji Sho , Misumi Yoshitsugu , Tamiya Akiko , Nonaka Kouichi
Published: October 2023

Iodine staining allows for clear visualization of the lesion boundaries of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and is used as the gold standard for detecting and diagnosing the extent of the cancer. Heartburn and retrosternal pain are known side effects; however, no reports of pharyngitis or laryngitis exist. Therefore, we present a case of laryngitis caused by iodine reflux. An 80‐year‐old female patient underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection for superficial esophageal cancer. During the operation, a reflux of the iodine used for diagnosing the extent of the lesion occurred, and she experienced laryngitis accompanied by hoarseness postoperatively, which improved with steroid administration. Laryngitis due to iodine reflux may cause airway stenosis, and preventing reflux requires anterograde application of iodine and spraying iodine as gently and locally as possible.
Factors influencing autumn–winter movements of midcontinent Mallards and consequences for harvest and habitat management
Authors: Pearse Aaron T. , Szymanski Michael L. , Anchor Cynthia A. , Anteau Michael J. , Murano Rocco M. , Brandt David A. , Stafford Joshua D.
Published: October 2023

Annual phenology and distributions of migratory wildlife have been noticeably influenced by climate change, leading to concerns about sustainable populations. Recent studies exploring conditions influencing autumn migration departure have provided conflicting insights regarding factors influencing the movements of Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos), a popular game species. We determined factors affecting timing and magnitude of long‐distance movements of 97 juvenile Mallards during autumn‐winter across the midcontinent of North America marked with implanted transmitters in North and South Dakota, 2018–2019. Factors influencing variation in movement timing, along with direction and magnitudes, depended on type of movement (i.e., regional [25–310 km], initial migration, or subsequent migration movements [>310 km]). Photoperiod influenced probability of initiating all movements, although the effect was most influential for regional movements. Minimum temperature most influenced initial migration events (probability of movement increased 29% for each 1°C decrease); favorable winds also increased likelihood of initial migration events. Probability of subsequent migration events increased 80% for each 1 cm increase in depth of snow. Subsequent migration movements also were 2.0 times more likely to occur on weekend days, indicating disturbance from humans may influence movements. Migration distances increased 166 km for each 1°C reduction in minimum temperature. We also observed markedly different autumn‐winter distributions of marked birds between years. Median locations during autumn‐winter 2018–2019 were ~250 km farther north and ~300 km farther west during mid‐December–January compared to the same time in 2019–2020. Concurrently, harvest rates for marked females and males were 10% and 26% during autumn‐winter 2018–2019 and 26% and 31% during autumn‐winter 2019–2020. Climate‐related changes may result in increasingly variable autumn‐winter distributions, with implications for wildlife recreationalists, conservation planners, and harvest managers.
Opposing effects of warming on the stability of above‐ and belowground productivity in facing an extreme drought event
Authors: Ma Fangfang , Yan Yingjie , Svenning Jens‐Christian , Quan Quan , Peng Jinlong , Zhang Ruiyang , Wang Jinsong , Tian Dashuan , Zhou Qingping , Niu Shuli
Published: October 2023

Climate warming, often accompanied by extreme drought events, could have profound effects on both plant community structure and ecosystem functioning. However, how warming interacts with extreme drought to affect community‐ and ecosystem‐level stability remains a largely open question. Using data from a manipulative experiment with three warming treatments in an alpine meadow that experienced one extreme drought event, we investigated how warming modulates resistance and recovery of community structural and ecosystem functional stability in facing with extreme drought. We found warming decreased resistance and recovery of aboveground net primary productivity (ANPP) and structural resistance but increased resistance and recovery of belowground net primary productivity (BNPP), overall net primary productivity (NPP), and structural recovery. The findings highlight the importance of jointly considering above‐ and belowground processes when evaluating ecosystem stability under global warming and extreme climate events. The stability of dominant species, rather than species richness and species asynchrony, was identified as a key predictor of ecosystem functional resistance and recovery, except for BNPP recovery. In addition, structural resistance of common species contributed strongly to the resistance changes in BNPP and NPP. Importantly, community structural resistance and recovery dominated the resistance and recovery of BNPP and NPP, but not for ANPP, suggesting the different mechanisms underlie the maintenance of stability of above‐ versus belowground productivity. This study is among the first to explain that warming modulates ecosystem stability in the face of extreme drought and lay stress on the need to investigate ecological stability at the community level for a more mechanistic understanding of ecosystem stability in response to climate extremes.