bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and characterization of microplastics in nasal irrigation fluids: A preliminary study
Authors: Kim Seong Hee , Kim Juyang , Park Seul‐Ah , Jung Jaehak , Kim Kyung Soo , Min Hyun Jin
Published: July 2023

Key points

Microplastics were identified in nasal irrigations

Polypropylenes, which were the main component of the nozzle, were commonly identified

Additional studies are needed to understand the biological relevance of microplastics in nasal irrigations
A Membrane Tension‐Responsive Mechanosensitive DNA Nanomachine
Authors: Zheng Haoran , Li Haidong , Li Mingqiang , Zhai Tingting , Xie Xiaodong , Li Cong , Jing Xinxin , Liang Chengpin , Li Qian , Zuo Xiaolei , Li Jiang , Fan Jiangli , Shen Jianlei , Peng Xiaojun , Fan Chunhai
Published: July 2023

Membrane curvature reflects physical forces operating on the lipid membrane, which plays important roles in cellular processes. Here, we design a mechanosensitive DNA (MSD) nanomachine that mimics natural mechanosensitive PIEZO channels to convert the membrane tension changes of lipid vesicles with different sizes into fluorescence signals in real time. The MSD nanomachine consists of an archetypical six‐helix‐bundle DNA nanopore, cholesterol‐based membrane anchors, and a solvatochromic fluorophore, spiropyran (SP). We find that the DNA nanopore effectively amplifies subtle variations of the membrane tension, which effectively induces the isomerization of weakly emissive SP into highly emissive merocyanine isomers for visualizing membrane tension changes. By measuring the membrane tension via the fluorescence of MSD nanomachine, we establish the correlation between the membrane tension and the curvature that follows the Young‐Laplace equation. This DNA nanotechnology‐enabled strategy opens new routes to studying membrane mechanics in physiological and pathological settings.
Overlooked Formation of Carbonate Radical Anions in the Oxidation of Iron(II) by Oxygen in the Presence of Bicarbonate
Authors: Kottapurath Vijay Aswin , Sharma Virender K. , Meyerstein Dan
Published: July 2023

Iron(II), (Fe(H2O)62+, (FeII) participates in many reactions of natural and biological importance. It is critically important to understand the rates and the mechanism of FeII oxidation by dissolved molecular oxygen, O2, under environmental conditions containing bicarbonate (HCO3−), which exists up to millimolar concentrations. In the absence and presence of HCO3−, the formation of reactive oxygen species (O2⋅−, H2O2, and HO⋅) in FeII oxidation by O2 has been suggested. In contrast, our study demonstrates for the first time the rapid generation of carbonate radical anions (CO3⋅−) in the oxidation of FeII by O2 in the presence of bicarbonate, HCO3−. The rate of the formation of CO3⋅− may be expressed as d[CO3⋅−]/dt=[FeII[[O2][HCO3−]2. The formation of reactive species was investigated using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and gas chromatographic techniques. The study presented herein provides new insights into the reaction mechanism of FeII oxidation by O2 in the presence of bicarbonate and highlights the importance of considering the formation of CO3⋅− in the geochemical cycling of iron and carbon.
Organic Electrochemical Transistor Based on Hydrophobic Polymer Tuned by Ionic Gels
Authors: He Rongxiang , Lv Aifeng , Jiang Xingyu , Cai Chang , Wang Yazhou , Yue Wan , Huang Lizhen , Yin Xue‐Bo , Chi Lifeng
Published: July 2023

Hydrophobic conjugated polymers have poor ionic transport property, so hydrophilic side chains are often grafted for their application as organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs). However, this modification lowers their charge transport ability. Here, an ionic gel interfacial layer is applied to improve the ionic transport while retaining the charge transport ability of the polymers. By using the ionic gels comprising gel matrix and ionic liquids as the interfacial layers, the hydrophobic polymer achieves the OECT feature with high transconductance, low threshold voltage, high current on/off ratio, short switching time, and high operational stability. The working mechanism is also revealed. Moreover, the OECT performance can be tuned by varying the types and ratios of ionic gels. With the proposed ionic gel strategy, OECTs can be effectively realized with hydrophobic conjugated polymers.
Closed‐Loop Recycling of Vinylogous Urethane Vitrimers
Authors: Ma Youwei , Jiang Xuesong , Shi Zixing , Berrocal José Augusto , Weder Christoph
Published: July 2023

Devising energy‐efficient strategies for the depolymerization of plastics and the recovery of their structural components in high yield and purity is key to a circular plastics economy. Here, we report a case study in which we demonstrate that vinylogous urethane (VU) vitrimers synthesized from bis‐polyethylene glycol acetoacetates (aPEG) and tris(2‐aminoethyl)amine can be degraded by water at moderate temperature with almost quantitative recovery (≈98 %) of aPEG. The rate of depolymerization can be controlled by the temperature, amount of water, molecular weight of aPEG, and composition of the starting material. These last two parameters also allow one to tailor the mechanical properties of the final materials, and this was used to access soft, tough, and brittle vitrimers, respectively. The straightforward preparation and depolymerization of the aPEG‐based VU vitrimers are interesting elements for the design of polymer materials with enhanced closed‐loop recycling characteristics.
Bis‐Alkylureido Imidazole Artificial Water Channels
Authors: Su Dan‐Dan , Ulrich Sébastien , Barboiu Mihail
Published: July 2023

Nature creates aquaporins to effectively transport water, rejecting all ions including protons. Aquaporins (AQPs) has brought inspiration for the development of Artificial Water Channels (AWCs). Imidazole‐quartet (I‐quartet) was the first AWC that enabled to self‐assemble a tubular backbone for rapid water and proton permeation with total ion rejection. Here, we report the discovery of bis‐alkylureido imidazole compounds, which outperform the I‐quartets by exhibiting ≈3 times higher net and single channel permeabilities (107 H2O/s/channel) and a ≈2–3 times lower proton conductance. The higher water conductance regime is associated to the high partition of more hydrophobic bis‐alkylureido channels in the membrane and to their pore sizes, experiencing larger fluctuations, leading to an increase in the number of water molecules in the channel, with decreasing H‐bonding connectivity. This new class of AWCs will open new pathways toward scalable membranes with enhanced water transport performances.
The Crucial Role of Sb2F10 in the Chemical Synthesis of F2
Authors: Möbs Martin , Dixon David A. , de Melo Gabriel F. , Vasiliu Monica , Graubner Tim , Christe Karl O. , Kraus Florian
Published: July 2023

The purely chemical synthesis of fluorine is a spectacular reaction which for more than a century had been believed to be impossible. In 1986, it was finally experimentally achieved, but since then this important reaction has not been further studied and its detailed mechanism had been a mystery. The known thermal stability of MnF4 casts serious doubts on the originally proposed hypothesis that MnF4 is thermodynamically unstable and decomposes spontaneously to a lower manganese fluoride and F2. This apparent discrepancy has now been resolved experimentally and by electronic structure calculations. It is shown that the reductive elimination of F2 requires a large excess of SbF5 and occurs in the last reaction step when in the intermediate [SbF6][MnF2][Sb2F11] the addition of one more SbF5 molecule to the [SbF6]− anion generates a second tridentate [Sb2F11]− anion. The two tridentate [Sb2F11]− anions then provide six fluorine bridges to the Mn atom thereby facilitating the reductive elimination of the two fluorine ligands as F2.
A Modular Approach for the Synthesis of Natural and Artificial Terpenoids
Authors: Wang Weiyi , Huang Dongyu , Yu Yibo , Qian Hui , Ma Shengming
Published: July 2023

Many terpenoids with isoprene unit(s) demonstrating critical biological activities have been isolated and characterized. In this study, we have developed a robust chem‐stamp strategy for the construction of the key isoprene unit, which consists of two steps: one‐carbon extension of aldehydes to the alkenyl boronates by the boron‐Wittig reaction and the rhodium‐catalyzed reaction of alkenyl boronates with 2,3‐allenols to yield enals. This chem‐stamp could readily be applied repeatedly and separately, enabling the modular concise synthesis of many natural and pharmaceutically active terpenoids, including retinal, β‐carotene, vitamin A, tretinoin, fenretinide, acitretin, ALRT1550, nigerapyrone C, peretinoin, and lycopene. Owing to the diversified availability of the starting materials, aldehydes and 2,3‐allenols, creation of new non‐natural terpenoids has been realized from four dimensions: the number of isoprene units, the side chain, and the two terminal groups.
Low Pressure Carbonylation of Benzyl Carbonates and Carbamates for Applications in13C Isotope Labeling and Catalytic CO2Reduction
Authors: Day Craig S. , Ton Stephanie J. , Kaussler Clemens , Vrønning Hoffmann Daniel , Skrydstrup Troels
Published: July 2023

Herein, we report a methodology to access isotopically labeled esters and amides from carbonates and carbamates employing an oxygen deletion strategy. This methodology utilizes a decarboxylative carbonylation approach for isotope labeling with near stoichiometric, ex situ generated12C, or13C carbon monoxide. This reaction is characterized by its broad scope, functional group tolerance, and high yields, which is showcased with the synthesis of structurally complex molecules. A complementary method that operates by the catalytic in situ generation of CO via the reduction of CO2liberated during decarboxylation has also been developed as a proof‐of‐concept approach that CO2‐derived compounds can be converted to CO‐containing frameworks. Mechanistic studies provide insight into the catalytic steps which highlight the impact of ligand choice to overcome challenges associated with low‐pressure carbonylation methodologies, along with rational for the development of future methodologies.
Synthesis and Characterization of a New Perovskite Nanocatalyst in CO Hydrogenation
Authors: Sayadi Borazjani Kamran , Pouranfard Abdolrasoul , Razmjooei Sam
Published: July 2023

Operating conditions and selectivity of a new perovskite nanocatalyst were studied in Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis using a fixed‐bed microreactor. Selectivity equations were obtained using the experimental data collected from a hydrogenation process in a fixed‐bed microreactor. The operating conditions were obtained by defining the design‐of‐experiment scope based on response surface methodology, on 3 levels and in 15 tests. The optimum selectivity for alkenes relative to alkanes was obtained at 349.7 °C, 3.2 bar, and a H2/CO volumetric ratio of 1. Also, the optimum selectivity for alkenes relative to the overall selectivity for other products was attained at 250 °C, 2.3 bar, and a feed volumetric ratio of 2.
Dimetalloylene (M‐E‐M) Complexes of Heavier Main Group Elements Ge, Sn, Pb, Bi via Cleavage of E‐X Bonds (X=N(SiMe3)2, OtBu) with an Iridium Hydride
Authors: Saint‐Denis Tyler G. , Zhang Bowen , Settineri Nicholas S. , Handford Rex C. , Hall Michael B. , Tilley T. Don
Published: July 2023

Reactions of the IrVhydride [MeBDIDipp]IrH4{BDI=(Dipp)NC(Me)CH(Me)CN(Dipp); Dipp=2,6‐iPr2C6H3} with E[N(SiMe3)2]2(E=Sn, Pb) afforded the unusual dimeric dimetallotetrylenes ([MeBDIDipp]IrH)2(μ2‐E)2in good yields. Moreover, ([MeBDIDipp]IrH)2(μ2‐Ge)2was formed in situ from thermal decomposition of [MeBDIDipp]Ir(H)2Ge[N(SiMe3)2]2. These reactions are accompanied by liberation of HN(SiMe3)2and H2through the apparent cleavage of an E−N(SiMe3)2bond by Ir−H. In a reversal of this process, ([MeBDIDipp]IrH)2(μ2‐E)2reacted with excess H2to regenerate [MeBDIDipp]IrH4. Varying the concentrations of reactants led to formation of the trimeric ([MeBDIDipp]IrH2)3(μ2‐E)3. The further scope of this synthetic route was investigated with group 15 amides, and ([MeBDIDipp]IrH)2(μ2‐Bi)2was prepared by the reaction of [MeBDIDipp]IrH4with Bi(NMe2)3or Bi(OtBu)3to afford the first example of a “naked” two‐coordinate Bi atom bound exclusively to transition metals. A viable mechanism that accounts for the formation of these products is proposed. Computational investigations of the Ir2E2(E=Sn, Pb) compounds characterized them as open‐shell singlets with confined nonbonding lone pairs at the E centers. In contrast, Ir2Bi2is characterized as having a closed‐shell singlet ground state.
Omalizumab prevents respiratory illnesses in non‐atopic chronic spontaneous urticaria patients: A prospective, parallel‐group, pilot pragmatic trial
Authors: Konstantinou George N. , Podder Indrashis , Karapiperis Dimitrios
Published: July 2023

Background

Omalizumab is the recommended treatment for antihistamine‐refractory chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and severe allergic asthma. In addition, it has been shown to reduce the frequency of viral respiratory infections in allergic asthma. Respiratory illness is a known trigger for asthma and CSU.

Objectives

To explore whether the antiviral effect of omalizumab may be extended to CSU patients independent of their atopic status.

Methods

We conducted a prospective parallel‐group pilot pragmatic trial including 30 non‐allergic and non‐atopic CSU patients (cases) under omalizumab 300 mg Q4‐weeks (due to refractory to H1‐antihistamines) and 30 age‐matched healthy controls. All CSU patients had to have a weekly urticaria activity score UAS7 <15 at least 4 weeks before recruitment. Using the self‐filled validated Jackson scale, we evaluated all study participants for common cold symptoms. All cases and controls rated weekly their respiratory symptoms. An increase in the symptom score of at least 4 points compared to baseline (defined as the minimum weekly report of symptoms) was considered an episode suggestive of a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract (URT). The patients were follow‐up every 4 weeks throughout the study period (10 months).

Results

CSU patients under omalizumab reported fewer episodes suggestive of an URT viral infection than the healthy controls (median of reported episodes: 0 vs. 1, inter‐quartile range 0–1 vs. 1–1, min–max: 0–3 vs. 0–4, respectively; p = 0.0095). The duration of each episode was the same in both cases and controls.

Conclusions

Omalizumab can reduce the number of common cold episodes in CSU patients and consequently may minimize viral‐related CSU exacerbations. This beneficial effect is exerted independently of the atopic status, even in non‐asthmatic individuals or non‐allergic patients without any evidence of respiratory susceptibility. Further large‐scale studies are needed to validate the current findings and elucidate the underlying relevant pathophysiology.
Signal detection in real‐world data and confirmation in clinical trials: Diabetes as a case study for a conversation worth having
Authors: Sharon Elad , Othus Megan , Quandt Zoe Eloise
Published: July 2023

A real‐world data (RWD) analysis revealed potentially worse outcomes for diabetic patients with lung cancer receiving immunotherapy. The effort emphasizes the need to bridge RWD and randomized clinical trials to enhance understanding of how comorbid conditions affect overall patient health.
Key Pharmacokinetic Parameters of 74 Pediatric Anticancer Drugs Providing Assistance in Preclinical Studies
Authors: Jamaladdin Nora , Sigaud Romain , Kocher Daniela , Kolodziejczak Anna S. , Nonnenbroich Leo F. , Ecker Jonas , Usta Diren , Benzel Julia , Peterziel Heike , Pajtler Kristian W. , van Tilburg Cornelis M. , Oehme Ina , Witt Olaf , Milde Till
Published: July 2023

Novel drug treatments for pediatric patients with cancer are urgently needed. Success of drug development in pediatric oncology has been promising, but many drugs still fail in translation from preclinical to clinical phases. To increase the translational potential, several improvements have been implemented, including the use of clinically achievable concentrations in the drug testing phase. Although pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters of numerous investigated drugs are published, a comprehensive PK overview of the most common drugs in pediatric oncology could guide preclinical trial design and improve the translatability into clinical trials. A review of the literature was conducted for PK parameters of 74 anticancer drugs, from the drug sensitivity profiling library of the INdividualized Therapy FOr Relapsed Malignancies in Childhood (INFORM) registry. PK data in the pediatric population were reported and complemented by adult parameters when no pediatric data were available. In addition, blood–brain barrier (BBB)‐penetration assessment of drugs was provided by using the BBB score. Maximum plasma concentration was available for 73 (97%), area under the plasma concentration‐time curve for 69 (92%), plasma protein binding for 66 (88%), plasma half‐life for 57 (76%), time to maximum concentration for 54 (72%), clearance for 52 (69%), volume of distribution for 37 (49%), lowest plasma concentration reached by the drug before the next dose administration for 21 (28%), and steady‐state concentration for 4 (5%) of drugs. Pediatric PK data were available for 48 (65%) drugs. We provide a comprehensive review of PK data for 74 drugs studied in pediatric oncology. This data set can serve as a reference to design experiments more closely mimicking drug PK conditions in patients, and may thereby increase the probability of successful clinical translation.
Multifunctional Role of Ag‐Substitution in Enhancing the Photoelectrochemical Properties of LaFeO3 Photocathodes
Authors: Sun Xin , Lan Zhineng , Wang Min , Geng Qi , Lv Xiaojun , Li Meicheng
Published: July 2023

Earth‐abundant LaFeO3 is a promising p‐type semiconductor for photoelectrochemical cells due to its stable photoresponses, high photovoltages and appropriate band alignments, but the photoelectrochemical properties of LaFeO3, especially the incident‐photon‐to‐current conversion efficiency, need to be further improved. Herein, we propose to partially substitute La3+ of LaFeO3 with Ag+ to enhance the photoelectrochemical performance of LaFeO3. The combined experimental and computational studies show that Ag‐substitution improves surface charge transfer kinetics through introducing active electronic states and increasing electrochemically active surface areas. Furthermore, Ag‐substitution decreases grain boundary number and increases majority carrier density, which promotes bulk charge transports. Ag‐substitution also reduces the bandgap energy, increasing the flux of carriers involved in photoelectrochemical reactions. As a result, after 8 % Ag‐substitution, the photocurrent density of LaFeO3 is enhanced by more than 6 times (−0.64 mA cm−2 at 0.5 V vs RHE) in the presence of oxygen, which is the highest photocurrent gain compared with other cation substitution or doping. The corresponding photocurrent onset potential also demonstrates a positive shift of 30 mV. This work highlights the versatile effects of Ag‐substitution on the photoelectrochemical properties of LaFeO3, which can provide useful insights into the mechanism of enhanced photoelectrochemical performance by doping or substitution.
Individual‐based analyses reveal effects of behavioral and demographic variables associated with multi‐annual reproductive success of male and female lake sturgeon
Authors: Duong Thuy‐Yen , Bence James , Forsythe Patrick S. , Crossman James A. , Baker Edward A. , Sard Nicholas M. , Scribner Kim T.
Published: July 2023

Quantifying effects of individual attributes and population demographic characteristics that affect inter‐ and intrasexual interactions and adult reproductive success, and the spatial and temporal contexts in which they are expressed is important to effective species management. Multi‐year individual‐based analyses using genetically determined parentage allowed the examination of variables associated with the reproductive success of male and female lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) in the well‐studied population in Black Lake, Michigan, USA. Spawning lake sturgeon (a total of 599 individuals where many were captured more than once based on 1024 total captures) and larvae (N = 3436) were genotyped during each of seven consecutive years (2001–2007). Factors associated with individual reproductive success differed between sexes and varied among spawning groups within a year and among years depending on spawning date (higher reproductive success earlier in the season for females) and spawning locations (higher reproductive success in upstream spawning zones for females). Female reproductive success increased nonlinearly with increasing body size. Male reproductive success increased with increasing residence time in spawning areas and, to a modest degree, with increasing body size in a nonlinear fashion. Fixed effects of repeatability in spawn timing and location across years led to consistently higher or lower reproductive success for females. Results identified factors, including time spent at spawning areas by males and intersexual encounters and mate number, that contributed to higher interindividual variance in reproductive success and affected population levels of recruitment, the degree of subpopulation genetic structure (lack of isolation by time), and effective population size.
Base Stabilized σ‐Borane Complex of Group 5 Metals: Synthesis and Structure of [(η5‐C5Me5)Ta(H3BNC5H4) (C5H4NS)(η2‐S2)]
Authors: Haridas Anagha , Saha Suvam , Bedajna Shantabh , Ghosh Sundargopal
Published: July 2023

Azametallacyclopropane‐containing base stabilized borane complexes of group 5 transition metals have been synthesized and their structural aspects have been described. Treatment of Cp* based Ta and Nb chlorides, Cp*TaCl4 and Cp*NbCl4 with [LiBH4 ⋅ THF] followed by addition of ligands, such as 2‐mercaptobenzothiazole, MBT, (C7H5NS2) and 2‐mercaptobenzoxazole, MBO (C7H5NSO) led to the formation of complexes [Cp*M‐[BHS(CH2ENC6H4)(C7H4NSE)] (1: M=Ta, E=S; 2; M=Nb, E=S; 3: M=Ta, E=O; 4; M=Nb, E=O, Cp*=pentamethyl‐η5‐cyclopentadienyl). By means of UV‐vis absorption spectra, the electronic properties of these complexes associated with central metal atoms and heteroatoms (S or O) have been evaluated. In contrast, treatment of Cp*TaCl4 with 2‐mercaptopyridine, MP, (C5H5NS) under the same reaction conditions yielded the agostic σ‐borane Ta complex, [Cp*Ta(H3BNC5H4) (C5H4NS)(η2‐S2)], 5. Unlike 1–4, where the metals interact with boron through bridging sulphur, 5 shows a notable σ‐B−H bond interaction with Ta. All spectroscopic data of 1–5 along with the X‐ray diffraction studies suggest complexes 2, 4, and 5 are base (amine) stabilized borane species. Computational studies based on Density Functional Theory (DFT) also supported this conclusion.
Electrokinetic motion and viability assessment of algae with a polyethylene glycol–dextran interface
Authors: Xu Runxin , Zhang Junyan , Cao Zhenhao , Song Yongxin , Xin Xiukun
Published: July 2023

At present, there is still limited report on the electrokinetic (EK) behavior of bioparticles at the interface of an aqueous two‐phase system. In this paper, the EK motion and viability assessment of live algae mixed with the NaClO treated dead algae were carried out at the interface formed by polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐rich phase and dextran (DEX)‐rich phase in a straight microchannel. The experimental results show that both the live and dead algae at the PEG–DEX interface migrate from the negative electrode to the positive electrode, and the EK velocity of live algae at the interface is slightly larger than that of the dead ones with similar diameters. For either live or dead algae, the EK velocity at the interface decreases with the increase in diameter. A size–velocity curve was used to evaluate the viability of the algae. As most of the microorganisms in ballast water are algae, the method in this paper provides a promising way to detect and evaluate the live microorganism in treated ballast water of a ship.
Electrophoresis of a dielectric droplet with constant surface charge density
Authors: Tseng Jessica , Su Judy , Chang Kevin , Chang Amy , Chuang Lily , Lu Amanda , Lee Rose , Lee Eric
Published: July 2023

Electrophoresis of a dielectric fluid droplet with constant surface charge density is investigated theoretically in this study. A pseudo‐spectral method based on Chebyshev polynomials is adopted to solve the governing electrokinetic equations. It is found, among other things, that the larger the electrolyte strength in the ambient solution is, the slower the droplet moves in general. This is due to the strong screening effect of the large amount of indifferent counterions in the neighborhood of the droplet, with no reinforcement of potential‐determining ions adsorbing to the droplet surface. The droplet comes to a complete halt eventually. Critical points are discovered for highly charged droplets, at which the droplet surface becomes immobile and the interior fluid stops recirculating. The droplet moves like a rigid particle with constant mobility regardless of its viscosity, a situation referred to as the “solidification phenomenon.” The deadlock between the spinning motions on the charged droplet surface induced by the electric driving force and the hydrodynamic driving force respectively is responsible for this peculiar phenomenon. This is also observed for a dielectric droplet with constant surface electric potential. We demonstrate here that it occurs in the constant surface charge density situation as well.
Electrokinetic transport phenomena in nanofluidics and their applications
Authors: Sun Ya , Jiang Rui , Hu Lide , Song Yongxin , Li Mengqi
Published: July 2023

Much progress has been made in the electrokinetic phenomena inside nanochannels in the last decades. As the dimensions of the nanochannels are compatible to that of the electric double layer (EDL), the electrokinetics inside nanochannels indicate many unexpected behaviors, which show great potential in the fields of material science, biology, and chemistry. This review summarizes the recent development of nanofluidic electrokinetics in both fundamental and applied research. First, the techniques for constructing nanochannels are introduced to give a guideline for choosing the optimal fabrication technique based on the specific feature of the nanochannel. Then, the theories and experimental investigations of the EDL, electroosmotic flow, and electrophoresis of nanoparticles inside the nanochannels are discussed. Furthermore, the applications of nanofluidic electrokinetics in iontronics, sensing, and biomolecule separation fields are summarized. In Section 5, some critical challenges and the perspective on the future development of nanofluidic electrokinetics are briefly proposed.
Digital health applications in the self‐management of epilepsy—A survey on patients' perspective
Authors: Houta Salima , Bader Alisa , Effert Jana‐Sophie , Esser Birgitta , Henze Jasmin , Spaic Alexandra , Zocher Feline , Lauerer Michael , Surges Rainer
Published: July 2023

Objective

Digital health applications can be prescribed since 2019 in Germany, which is likely to facilitate a broad use of epilepsy self‐management applications, possibly directly connected to clinical systems via telematics infrastructures. This article reports on patients' interest in digital support for epilepsy self‐management, influencing factors and patients' knowledge about digitization of health care in Germany.

Methods

This work is based on self‐reported data from 115 people with epilepsy participating in an anonymous online survey with a total of 54 questions covering several topics, including sociodemographics and epilepsy manifestation, use of technology in general and for treatment support, training programs, affinity for technology, knowledge on the digital infrastructure in Germany, and self‐efficacy in dealing with chronic illness. The self‐constructed questionnaire uses existing instruments like TA‐EG, SES6G, and Hoffmeyer‐Zlotnik sociodemographic questionnaire. To analyze the knowledge about digitalization in health care, a combination of self‐assessment and knowledge quiz was used. The analysis was performed using descriptive methods and inferential statistics (t‐test, reliability analysis, and correlations).

Results

Participants were most interested in seizure alerting and documentation with the possibility to share documentation with physicians. The analysis of technology affinity showed medium enthusiasm, with positively perceived consequences being rated higher than the negatively perceived consequences of technology use. Knowledge on national health infrastructures was mediocre and training on this was judged to be essential and desired. Furthermore, a significant correlation was found between interest in use and affinity for technology (enthusiasm for technology [r = 0.29; P = 0.00]) and positively perceived consequences of technology (r = 0.33; P = 0.00).

Significance

Our results underline the high relevance of digital solutions for patients and the importance of individual training opportunities in digital health literacy, thereby enabling patients to decide competently for or against offered digital solutions.
On the existence of k $k$‐cycle semiframes for even k $k$
Authors: Wang Li , Ji Haibo , Cao Haitao
Published: July 2023

A ‐semiframe of type is a ‐group divisible design of type in which is the vertex set, is the group set, and the set of ‐cycles can be written as a disjoint union where is partitioned into parallel classes on and is partitioned into holey parallel classes, each parallel class or holey parallel class being a set of vertex disjoint cycles whose vertex sets partition or for some . In this paper, we almost completely solve the existence of a ‐semiframe of type for all and a ‐semiframe of type for all and .
Undergraduate students' espoused beliefs about different approaches to engineering design decisions
Authors: Guanes Giselle , Leonard Alexia , Dringenberg Emily
Published: July 2023

Background

Engineers are socialized to value rational approaches to problem solving. A lack of awareness of how engineers use different decision‐making approaches is problematic because it perpetuates the ongoing development of inequitable engineering designs and contributes to a lack of inclusion in the field. Although researchers have explored how engineering students are socialized, further work is needed to understand students' beliefs about different decision‐making approaches.

Purpose/Hypothesis

We explored the espoused beliefs of undergraduate students about technical, empathic, experience‐based, and guess‐based approaches to engineering design decisions.

Design/Method

We conducted semistructured one‐on‐one interviews with 20 senior engineering students at the conclusion of their capstone design experience. We used a combination of deductive and inductive data condensation approaches to generate categories of beliefs.

Results

We identified a total of nine categories of beliefs, organized by approach. Although students' espoused beliefs did reflect the emphasis on technical approaches present in their socialization, they also described technical approaches as limited and overvalued.

Conclusion

The landscape of beliefs presented make explicit both the challenges and the opportunities that students' beliefs play as the backdrop for any efforts of engineering educators to develop engineers as effective and equitable engineering designers.
Shaping and coordinating the implementation science agenda for injectable cabotegravir for PrEP: the role of the Biomedical Prevention Implementation Collaborative (BioPIC)
Authors: Warren Mitchell , Nyagah Wawira , Verde Hashim Catherine , Rodolph Michelle , Schaefer Robin , Schmidt Heather‐Marie A , Baggaley Rachel
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Data from two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) showed that injectable cabotegravir (CAB) for pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) was efficacious in reducing HIV acquisition. The US Food and Drug Administration approved CAB for PrEP in December 2021; Australia in August 2022; Zimbabwe in October 2022; South Africa in November 2022; Malawi in March 2023; and regulatory approvals are being sought in additional countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended CAB be offered to people at substantial risk of HIV in July 2022. However, implementation experience beyond RCTs is limited. As countries consider CAB implementation, questions remain regarding delivery and involvement of populations excluded from the trials. A coordinated approach is needed to ensure these are addressed and CAB can be introduced in low‐ and middle‐income countries in timely, acceptable and effective ways.

Discussion

Beginning in 2018, the Biomedical Prevention Implementation Collaborative (BioPIC) convened over 100 global health experts to develop a comprehensive introduction strategy for CAB. Using this roadmap, country landscaping for CAB introduction and lessons from oral PrEP implementation, AVAC and WHO co‐convened 50 researchers, donors, implementers and civil society in September 2021 to: (1) identify questions and evidence gaps related to CAB across contexts and partners; (2) define the implementation science agenda; and (3) agree on mechanism(s) for future coordination. As a result, CAB‐related questions were identified, including: defining optimal and feasible HIV testing strategies that expand access; delivery models; integration with a range of services, including family planning and antenatal care; and embedding CAB in demand generation for HIV prevention choices. Through convenings and mapping of implementation research, BioPIC identified gaps in populations, geographies and delivery approaches.

Conclusions

The introduction strategy refined by BioPIC lays the groundwork for future HIV prevention products. Ongoing policy and implementation dialogue is critical to accelerate the design of CAB implementation studies that adequately address priority knowledge gaps. Additional long‐acting HIV prevention products may be available over the next 5 years, increasing choice, but potentially making delivery and stakeholder engagement more complex. Ongoing coordination with WHO will accelerate the adoption of evidence‐based policies and wide‐scale implementation, and lessons from BioPIC can inform introduction processes for long‐acting HIV prevention products.
Probiotic‐fermented Qushi decoction alleviates reserpine‐induced spleen deficiency syndrome by regulating spleen function and gut microbiota dysbiosis
Authors: Zeng Wenshen , Chen Yang , Zhang Huan , Peng Luwei , Li Yaqi , Liu Bing , Liang Hongbo , Du Bing , Li Pan
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Spleen deficiency syndrome (SDS) is associated with elevated inflammatory factors and dysregulation of gastrointestinal motility hormones and intestinal microbiota. Qushi decoction (QD), a traditional formula, has not been reported using modern scientific research methods for changes in its probiotic fermented QD (FQD) composition and its potential mechanisms to alleviate SDS. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the splenic protection of FQD in SDS rats by modulating gastrointestinal motility hormones and intestinal microbiota.

RESULTS

The results showed that FQD increased total polysaccharides, total protein, total flavonoids and the other active ingredients compared to QD, effectively improved splenic inflammation and apoptosis in SDS rats, and modulated gastrointestinal motility hormones to alleviate diarrhea and other symptoms. In addition, the dysregulation of the gut microbiota was reversed by increasing the levels of Bifidobacterium and decreasing the levels of Escherichia–Shigella and Proteobacteria, which may be related to the regulation of bacterial metabolites to alleviate SDS.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that FQD is an effective formula for improving SDS. Our findings show that FQD beneficial to the implications for the treatment of SDS. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Urine and serum metabolomics study of wild ginseng in rats with spleen‐qi deficiency using rapid resolution liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Li Fangtong , Pi Yijun , Zhang Meiyu , Ma Liting , Wu Yongxi , Luo Jing , Cai Yongyu , Dai Yulin , Zheng Fei , Yue Hao
Published: July 2023

Patients with a spleen‐qi deficiency often exhibit dysfunction in the metabolic system. Metabolites are considered the most direct reflection of individual physiological and pathological conditions and represent attractive candidates to provide deep insights into disease phenotypes. This study examines the potential therapeutic mechanism of wild ginseng on spleen‐qi deficiency through the analysis of serum and urine metabolomics using rapid‐resolution liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. The reasons for the superiority of wild ginseng treatment over cultivated ginseng were also analyzed in depth. After wild ginseng intervention, anandamide, urobilinogen, aldosterone, and testosterone glucuronide were significantly reduced in serum. Meanwhile, argininosuccinic acid, L‐cysteine, and seven other metabolites were significantly elevated in serum. Nine metabolites, including L‐acetylcarnitine, and citrulline were elevated in the urine, and trimethylamine N‐oxide, adrenic acid, and 10 other metabolites were reduced. Arginine biosynthesis, pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis, thiamin metabolism, taurine, and tryptophan metabolism pathways were mainly improved. Further analysis was conducted on the relationship between Lactobacillus and Akkermansia bacteria with metabolites, and it was found that they are mainly related to amino acid metabolites. This study provides strong theoretical support and direction for further explanation of the immune mechanism of wild ginseng and lays the foundation for future studies.
Long‐term effects of pancreatic islet transplantation on polyneuropathy in patients with brittle diabetes: A single‐center experience
Authors: Alhaidar Mohammed , Soliven Betty , Liao Chuanhong , Rubeiz Helene , Ogledzinski Mateusz , Witkowski Piotr , Rezania Kourosh
Published: July 2023

Introduction/Aims

Pancreatic islet transplantation (ITx) is increasingly used in patients with brittle type 1 diabetes (T1D). If successful, ITx results in insulin‐free euglycemia, but its application is limited by a need for lifelong immunosuppression. The aim of this study was to assess the long‐term effects of ITx on the occurrence and course of polyneuropathy in a cohort of patients with brittle T1D.

Methods

In this prospective, single‐center study, 13 patients (4 males and 9 females) with brittle T1D had a baseline neurological exam with the calculation of Utah Neuropathy Scale (UNS) and a limited nerve conduction study before ITx, and about yearly after in the patients who achieved insulin independence.

Results

Patients were followed for a period of 17 to 133 months. There was no significant difference between UNS and nerve conduction study parameters at baseline and at the end of follow‐up, except for significant decreases in peroneal (50.34 ± 6.12 vs. 52.42 ± 6.47 ms, P = 0.005) and ulnar (27.5 ± 2.15 vs. 29.45 ± 2.10 ms, P = 0.009) F‐wave latencies and an increase in ulnar sensory nerve conduction velocity (49.98 ± 6.27 vs. 47.19 ± 5.36 m/s, P = 0.04).

Discussion

If successful, ITx has a good long‐term safety profile for peripheral nerve toxicity, and a favorable effect on diabetic neuropathy.
Total positivity and accurate computations with Gram matrices of Said‐Ball bases
Authors: Mainar E. , Peña J. M. , Rubio B.
Published: July 2023

In this article, it is proved that Gram matrices of totally positive bases of the space of polynomials of a given degree on a compact interval are totally positive. Conditions to guarantee computations to high relative accuracy with those matrices are also obtained. Furthermore, a fast and accurate algorithm to compute the bidiagonal factorization of Gram matrices of the Said‐Ball bases is obtained and used to compute to high relative accuracy their singular values and inverses, as well as the solution of some linear systems associated with these matrices. Numerical examples are included.
The growth of hierarchy in organizations: Managing knowledge scope
Authors: Lawrence Megan , Poliquin Christopher
Published: July 2023

Research Summary

Theory posits hierarchy as a response to coordination challenges and emphasizes organization size and the need to transfer knowledge as the mainspring of these challenges. This connection, however, is largely based on the quantity of knowledge to be transferred rather than its characteristics. Building on the knowledge‐based view, we propose that knowledge scope—the variety of knowledge across an organization's members—affects coordination costs and hierarchy expansion. Using an economy‐wide database from Brazil, we show that firms are more likely to expand their hierarchy when knowledge scope increases. This effect varies with firms' capacities to manage knowledge; firms whose employees perform more similar tasks or have shared experience at previous employers are less likely to expand hierarchy in response to increases in knowledge scope.

Managerial Summary

Growing organizations often struggle to coordinate the work of their employees within their current organizational structures. We distinguish coordination problems generated by increased size from problems generated by expanding the variety of knowledge used and argue that both spur organizations to hire additional managers. Using a database of Brazilian startups, we show that a greater variety of knowledge used is associated with the expansion of hierarchy. Additionally, we find that organizations whose employees have more shared work experience have a greater ability to coordinate and thus delay the expansion of hierarchy. Overall, our results show the importance of the characteristics of an organization's knowledge base for organizational structure and suggest building teams with shared experience can enhance an organization's ability to adapt to coordination challenges.
A Versatile Extended Stöber Approach to Monodisperse Sub‐40 nm Carbon Nanospheres for Stabilizing Atomically Dispersed Fe─N4 Sites Toward Efficient Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysis
Authors: Lu Tingyu , Zhang Sike , Zhou Qixing , Wang Rui , Pang Huan , Yang Jun , Zhang Mingyi , Xu Lin , Xi Shibo , Sun Dongmei , Jin Can , Tang Yawen
Published: July 2023

The development of atomically dispersed iron‐nitrogen‐carbon (Fe─N─C) catalysts as an alternative to precious platinum holds great potential for the substantial progress of a variety of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR)‐associated energy conversion technologies. Nevertheless, the precise synthesis of Fe─N─C single atomic catalysts (SACs) with a high density of accessible active sites and pronounced electrocatalytic performance still remains an enormous challenge. Herein, an innovative extended Stöber method is designed for the controllable preparation of monodisperse small‐sized N‐doped carbon colloidal nanospheres (≈40 nm) anchoring atomically isolated Fe─N4 sites (abbreviated as Fe‐SA@N‐CNSs hereafter) with a narrow size distribution and high uniformity. Benefiting from the single Fe─N4 moieties and the unique spherical carbon substrate, the resultant Fe‐SA@N‐CNSs exhibit excellent ORR activity, outstanding long‐term durability, and methanol tolerance in KOH electrolyte. More impressively, when further assembled into a flexible solid‐state rechargeable zinc–air battery (ZAB), the Fe‐SA@N‐CNSs‐driven ZAB delivers a higher open circuit voltage, a larger power density, and robust cycling/mechanical stability, outperforming the state‐of‐the‐art Pt/C‐based counterpart and further testifying the great potential of the as‐prepared Fe‐SA@N‐CNSs in diverse ORR‐related practical energy devices. The developed extended Stöber method provides an efficient and versatile avenue toward the preparation of a series of well‐defined SACs for diverse electrocatalytic systems.
A Gradient Lithiophilic Structure for Stable Lithium Metal Anodes with Ultrahigh Rate and Ultradeep Capacity
Authors: Peng Gangqiang , Zheng Qianfeng , Luo Geng , Zheng Dawei , Feng Shien‐Ping , Khan Ubaid , Akbar Abdul Rehman , Luo Haimei , Liu Fude
Published: July 2023

Using three‐dimensional current collectors (3DCC) as frameworks for lithium metal anodes (LMAs) is a promising approach to inhibit dendrite growth. However, the intrinsically accumulated current density on the top surface and limited Li‐ion transfer in the interior of 3DCC still lead to the formation of lithium dendrites, which can pose safety risks. In this study, it reports that gradient lithiophilic structures can induce uniform lithium deposition within the interior of the 3DCC, greatly suppressing dendrite formation, as confirmed by COMSOL simulations and experimental results. With this concept, a gradient‐structured zinc oxide‐loaded copper foam (GSZO‐CF) is synthesized via an easy solution‐combustion method at low cost. The resulting Li@GSZO‐CF symmetric cells demonstrate stable cycling performance for over 800 cycles, with an ultra‐deep capacity of 10 mAh cm−2 even under an ultra‐high current density of 50 mA cm−2, the top results reported in the literature. Moreover, when combined with a LiFePO4 (LFP) cathode under a low negative/positive (N/P) capacity ratio of 2.9, the Li@GSZO‐CF||LFP full cells exhibit stable performance for 200 cycles, with a discharge capacity of 130 mAh g−1 and retention of 85.5% at a charging/discharging rate of 1C. These findings suggest a promising strategy for the development of new‐generation LMAs.
Construction of Magnetic Core–Large Mesoporous Satellite Immunosensor for Long‐Lasting Chemiluminescence and Highly Sensitive Tumor Marker Determination
Authors: Liu Shude , Li Juan , Zou Yidong , Jiang Yongjian , Wu Limin , Deng Yonghui
Published: July 2023

Chemiluminescence immunoassay exhibits high sensitivity and signal‐to‐noise ratio, thus attracting great attention in the early diagnosis and dynamic monitoring of diseases. However, the collection of conventional flash‐type chemiluminescence signal (<5 s) relies heavily on automatic sampling and reading instrument. Herein, a novel core‐satellite multifunctional chemiluminescence immunosensor is designed for the efficient enrichment and highly sensitive determination of cancer biomarker carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) with enhanced and long‐lasting output signal that can be conveniently recorded by a simple microplate plate reading instrument. Anti‐CEA monoclonal antibody 2 (Ab2) modified Fe3O4@SiO2 microspheres (Fe3O4@SiO2‐Ab2, 370 nm in diameter) are synthesized as the core for selectively capturing and enriching target CEA in solution, and anti‐human CEA monoclonal antibody 1 (Ab1) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) co‐immobilized dendritic large‐mesoporous silica nanospheres (MSNs‐HRP/Ab1, 80 nm in diameter, pore size: 17 nm) are synthesized as the satellite for efficient immunological recognition and signal amplification. The as‐designed core‐satellite magnetic chemiluminescence immunosensors exhibit a broad linear range of 0.01−20 ng mL−1 and a low detection limit of 3.0 pg mL−1 for the convenient, highly specific, and sensitive determination of CEA in human serum. Such core‐satellite chemiluminescence immunosensors are expected to act as a powerful tool for in vitro detection of various biomarkers, overcome the defect of conventional chemiluminescence relying heavily on expensive and bulky automatic instruments and popularize chemiluminescence analysis to primary medical institutions and remote areas.