bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon Additive Manufacturing with a Near‐Replica “Green‐to‐Brown” Transformation
Authors: Zhang Chunyan , Shi Baohui , He Jinlong , Zhou Lyu , Park Soyeon , Doshi Sagar , Shang Yuanyuan , Deng Kaiyue , Giordano Marc , Qi Xiangjun , Cui Shuang , Liu Ling , Ni Chaoying , Fu Kun Kelvin
Published: May 2023

Nanocomposites containing nanoscale materials offer exciting opportunities to encode nanoscale features into macroscale dimensions, which produces unprecedented impact in material design and application. However, conventional methods cannot process nanocomposites with a high particle loading, as well as nanocomposites with the ability to be tailored at multiple scales. A composite architected mesoscale process strategy that brings particle loading nanoscale materials combined with multiscale features including nanoscale manipulation, mesoscale architecture, and macroscale formation to create spatially programmed nanocomposites with high particle loading and multiscale tailorability is reported. The process features a low‐shrinking (<10%) “green‐to‐brown” transformation, making a near‐geometric replica of the 3D design to produce a “brown” part with full nanomaterials to allow further matrix infill. This demonstration includes additively manufactured carbon nanocomposites containing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and thermoset epoxy, leading to multiscale CNTs tailorability, performance improvement, and 3D complex geometry feasibility. The process can produce nanomaterial‐assembled architectures with 3D geometry and multiscale features and can incorporate a wide range of matrix materials, such as polymers, metals, and ceramics, to fabricate nanocomposites for new device structures and applications.
Space‐Confined Guest Synthesis to Fabricate Sn‐Monodispersed N‐Doped Mesoporous Host toward Anode‐Free Na Batteries
Authors: Li Siwu , Zhu Haolin , Liu Yuan , Wu Qiang , Cheng Shijie , Xie Jia
Published: May 2023

Severe issues including volume change and dendrite growth on sodium metal anodes hinder the pursuit of applicable high‐energy‐density sodium metal batteries. Herein, an in situ reaction approach is developed that takes metal–organic frameworks as nano‐reactor and pore‐former to produce a mesoporous host comprised of nitrogen‐doped carbon fibers embedded with monodispersed Sn clusters (SnNCNFs). The hybrid host shows outstanding sodiophilicity that enables rapid Na infusion and ultralow Na nucleation overpotential of 2 mV. Its porous structure holds a high Na content and guides uniform Na deposition. Such host provides favorable Na plating/stripping with an average Coulombic efficiency of 99.96% over 2000 cycles (at 3 mA cm−2 and 3 mA h cm−2). The Na‐infused SnNCNF anode delivers extreme Na utilization of 86% in symmetric cells (at 10 mA cm−2 and 10 mA h cm−2), outstanding rate capability and cycle life in Na‐SnNCNF||Na3V2(PO4)3 full cells (at 1 A g−1 for over 1000 cycles with capacity retention of 92.1%). Furthermore, high‐energy/power‐density anode‐less and anode‐free Na cells are achieved. This work presents an effective heteroatom‐doping approach for fabricating multifunctional porous carbon materials and developing high‐performance metal batteries.
A Multifunctional Additive Strategy Enables Efficient Pure‐Blue Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Liu Yongjie , Wang Shuxin , Yu Zhiqiu , Chen Guoyi , Wang Cheng , Wang Ti , Ke Weijun , Fang Guojia
Published: May 2023

Lead halide perovskites have shown exceptional performance in light‐emitting devices (PeLEDs), particularly in producing significant electroluminescence in sky‐blue to near‐infrared wavelengths. However, PeLEDs emitting pure‐blue light at 465–475 nm are still not satisfactory. Herein, efficient and stable pure‐blue PeLEDs are reported by controlling phase distribution, passivation of defects, as well as surface modifications using multifunctional phenylethylammonium trifluoroacetate (PEATFA) in reduced‐dimensional p‐F‐PEA2Csn−1Pbn(Br0.55Cl0.45)3n+1 polycrystalline perovskite films. Compared with 4‐fluorophenylethylammonium (p‐F‐PEA+) in the pristine films, phenylethylammonium (PEA+) has lower adsorption energy while interacting with perovskites, resulting in large‐n low‐dimensional perovskites, which can greatly facilitate charge transport within the low‐dimensional perovskite films. The interaction between the CO group in trifluoroacetate (TFA−) and perovskites significantly reduces defects in the perovskite films. Additionally, the electron‐giving CF3 group in TFA‐ uplifts surface potential in the films, resulting in smooth electronic injection in devices. The multifunctional additive strategy leads to elevated radiative recombination and efficient carrier transport in the films and devices. As a result, the devices exhibit a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 11.87% at 468 nm with stable spectral output, the highest reported to date for pure‐blue PeLEDs. Thus, this study extends the way for high‐efficiency pure‐blue LED with perovskite polycrystal films.
Microdisplays: Mini‐LED, Micro‐OLED, and Micro‐LED
Authors: Miao Wen‐Chien , Hsiao Fu‐He , Sheng Yujia , Lee Tzu‐Yi , Hong Yu‐Heng , Tsai Chun‐Wei , Chen Hung‐Lung , Liu Zhaojun , Lin Chun‐Liang , Chung Ren‐Jei , Ye Zhi‐Ting , Horng Ray‐Hua , Chen Shih‐Chen , Kuo Hao‐Chung , He Jr‐Hau
Published: May 2023

The field of next‐generation microdisplays is flourishing. Relevant display technologies, such as mini‐light emission diodes (mini‐LEDs), micro‐organic light emission diodes (micro‐OLEDs), and micro‐light emission diodes (micro‐LEDs) are thus in the urgent stage of development. From this perspective, comprehensive and systematical analyzes are conducted for the aforesaid microdisplay configurations. A holistic view of microdisplay technologies is developed with the corresponding performance metrics, providing a path for miscellaneous scenarios. Among these scenarios, the applications in augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), wearable devices, and head‐up displays (HUD) are currently attracting considerable attention for deeper human‐digital interactions. However, there is a multiplicity of obstacles and challenges hindering such development. Nevertheless, recent advances in microdisplay technologies hold tremendous promise for the paradigms of these applications, taking a leap forward for next‐generation microdisplays. This review presents perspectives, relevant materials, and the technology landscape for such ongoing display technologies, offering guidance on the design of advanced microdisplays.
Weak X‐Ray to Visible Lights Detection Enabled by a 2D Multilayered Lead Iodide Perovskite with Iodine‐Substituted Spacer
Authors: You Shihai , Yu Panpan , Wu Jianbo , Zhu Zeng‐Kui , Guan Qianwen , Li Lina , Ji Chengmin , Liu Xitao , Luo Junhua
Published: May 2023

Broadband photodetectors (PDs) with low detection limits hold significant importance to next‐generation optoelectronic devices. However, simultaneously detecting broadband (i.e., X‐ray to visible regimes) and weak lights in a single semiconducting material remains highly challenging. Here, by alloying iodine‐substituted short‐chain cations into the 3D FAPbI3 (FA = formamidine), a new 2D bilayered lead iodide hybrid perovskite, (2IPA)2FAPb2I7 (1, 2IPA = 2‐iodopropylammonium), that enables addressing this challenge is reported. Such a 2D multilayered structure and lead iodide composition jointly endow 1 with a minimized dark current (6.04 pA), excellent electrical property, and narrow bandgap (2.03 eV), which further gives it great potential for detecting broadband weak lights. Consequently, its high‐quality single crystal PDs exhibit remarkable photoresponses to weak ultraviolet–visible lights (377–637 nm) at several tens of nW cm−2 with high responsivities (>102 mA W−1) and significant detectivities (>1012 Jones). Moreover, 1 has an excellent X‐ray detection performance with a high sensitivity of 438 µC Gy−1 cm−2 and an ultralow detection limit of 20 nGy s−1. These exceptional attributes make 1 a promising material for broadband weak lights detection, which also sheds light on future explorations of high‐performance PDs based on 2D hybrid perovskites.
Interpretable Machine‐Learning and Big Data Mining to Predict Gas Diffusivity in Metal‐Organic Frameworks
Authors: Guo Shuya , Huang Xiaoshan , Situ Yizhen , Huang Qiuhong , Guan Kexin , Huang Jiaxin , Wang Wei , Bai Xiangning , Liu Zili , Wu Yufang , Qiao Zhiwei
Published: May 2023

For gas separation and catalysis by metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), gas diffusion has a substantial impact on the process' overall rate, so it is necessary to determine the molecular diffusion behavior within the MOFs. In this study, an interpretable machine learing (ML) model, light gradient boosting machine (LGBM), is trained to predict the molecular diffusivity and selectivity of 9 gases (Kr, Xe, CH4, N2, H2S, O2, CO2, H2, and He). For these 9 gases, LGBM displays high accuracy (average R2 = 0.962) and superior extrapolation for the diffusivity of C2H6. And this model calculation is five orders of magnitude faster than molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Subsequently, using the trained LGBM model, an interactive desktop application is developed that can help researchers quickly and accurately calculate the diffusion of molecules in porous crystal materials. Finally, the authors find the difference in the molecular polarizability (ΔPol) is the key factor governing the diffusion selectivity by combining the trained LGBM model with the Shapley additive explanation (SHAP). By the calculation of interpretable ML, the optimal MOFs are selected for separating binary gas mixtures and CO2 methanation. This work provides a new direction for exploring the structure‐property relationships of MOFs and realizing the rapid calculation of molecular diffusivity.
Interfacial Electrochemical Media‐Engineered Tunable Vanadium Zinc Hydrate Oxygen Defect for Enhancing the Redox Reaction of Zinc‐Ion Hybrid Supercapacitors
Authors: Lee Young‐Geun , Yoo Geun , Jo Yong‐Ryun , An Ha‐Rim , Koo Bon‐Ryul , An Geon‐Hyoung
Published: May 2023

Zinc‐ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZIHCs) are promising electrochemical energy storage system candidates owing to their eco‐friendliness, low‐cost, reliable safety, and high‐power density. Of particular note, ZIHCs are desirable alternatives to lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) because they can overcome the disadvantages of LIBs, such as the explosion hazard and the complex manufacturing process. Nevertheless, the low specific capacity of ZIHCs caused by their limited active sites and poor cycling stability because of their low wettability and irreversible Zn dendrite formation at the electrode has hindered their commercial application. Herein, for the first time, the fabrication and interfacial engineering of ZIHCs using vanadium (IV) oxide sulfate (VOSO4) as an additive chemistry agent is described, and the effect of the additive on the electrochemical performance is demonstrated. After the activation process, the resultant supercapacitor exhibits a zinc vanadium hydrate (ZVO) layer on both the anode and cathode. The electrochemical role of the ZVO layer on the electrodes are as follows: i) improved active sites for Zn‐ion intercalation at the cathode, ii) enhanced wettability between electrolyte and electrodes, and iii) buffer layer for the suppression of undesirable and irreversible Zn dendrites at the anode.
Sweetpotato responses to potassium rate and timing in tropical sandy soils
Authors: Figueiredo Ricardo T. , Fernandes Adalton M. , Garreto Francisca G. S. , Silva Jéssica A. , Nunes Jason G. S. , Vargas Pablo F.
Published: May 2023

The response of sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] to potassium (K) can vary based on soil K availability and the rate and timing of K application. This study evaluated the effects of K application rate and timing on leaf K concentration and yield attributes of sweetpotatoes grown in tropical sandy soils with different K availabilities. Treatments had three rates (60, 120, and 240 kg ha−1 K2O) and four timings (pl, the full rate at planting; pl‐1.3, 1/2 rate at planting plus 1/2 at 1.3 months after planting [MP]; pl‐3, 1/2 rate at planting plus 1/2 at 3 MP; pl‐1.3–3, 1/3 rate at planting plus 1/3 each at 1.3 and 3 MP), including a control (without K application). The benefits of K timings and application rates on sweetpotato yield were greater in K‐deficient soils with the maximum yield of sweetpotato (25.8–34.3 Mg ha−1) at the estimated rate of 153–179 kg ha−1 K2O in three application times. In soil with medium exchangeable K, the maximum total root yield (28.5–34.2 Mg ha−1) occurred at an optimum estimated rate of 113–122 kg ha−1 K2O. In soils with high exchangeable K, K application rates reduced the yield of roots or starch, and no K deficiency occurred in the unfertilized K treatments. To obtain high storage root and starch yields in sweetpotatoes grown in K‐deficient tropical sandy soils, there should be three K applications, and K application rates should be based on K levels already available in the soil.
Elevating community‐driven socioecological participation and action: A case study with Black youth
Authors: Louder Ceewin N. , Meyer Marisol L. , del Rey Gabrielle M. , Franklin Alexis R.
Published: May 2023

Context is important when considering how racism acts to harm Black youth. Hence, social scientists developed socioecological theories that consider both the individual and the context(s) which shapes them. We used these theories to make sense of the challenges facing Black youth and identify points for intervention. However, these theories were rarely shared with community participants. Theory, at its core, is a way to make sense of the world. Theory shared in an age‐appropriate manner can help youth make sense of their experiences in a way that promotes psychological wellness. This paper describes the intentional sharing of socioecological theory with community members engaged in two community‐based mental health programs. Our team has collaborated closely with community stakeholders to implement and iteratively improve these programs. This first‐person account presents the doctoral students' experiences in engaging community members in using socioecological theory to improve the programs with which they have identified as useful to their community. The article underscores the importance of elevating community voices when engaging in community‐based research and how that engagement is more fundamental as programs become well‐established.
Adult experiences in Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome
Authors: Drust William A. , Mussa Alessandro , Gazzin Andrea , Lapunzina Pablo , Tenorio‐Castaño Jair , Nevado Julian , Pascual Patricia , Arias Pedro , Parra Alejandro , Getz Kelly D. , Kalish Jennifer M.
Published: May 2023

Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) is an overgrowth and epigenetic disorder caused by changes on chromosome 11p15. The primary features requiring management in childhood include macroglossia, omphalocele, lateralized overgrowth, hyperinsulinism, and embryonal tumors. Management guidelines have not been developed for adults with BWS and there have been few studies to assess the clinical needs of these patients. Furthermore, there have been few studies on the psychosocial implications of BWS in children or adults. Here, we present a descriptive summary of data gathered from two separate adult BWS cohorts. The first, a patient‐based survey cohort, includes self‐reported health information and recollections about BWS experiences, while the second provides results of a medical record‐based assessment from patients in an overgrowth registry. Results highlight the clinical features and medical issues affecting two large independent cohorts of adults with BWS while noting similarities. Open‐ended questions asked of the survey cohort yielded themes to guide future qualitative studies. Finally, the study demonstrated the reliability of patient‐reported data and the utility of international partnerships in this context.
Macro peroxide initiators based on autoxidized unsaturated plant oils: Block/graft copolymer conjugates for nanotechnology and biomedical applications
Authors: Hazer Baki
Published: May 2023

The autoxidation of unsaturated fatty acids and their esters is one of the most important reactions in food and biological systems. Autoxidation is a type of reaction between air oxygen and unsaturated plant oils. This reaction starts with a hydrogen abstraction on the methylene group adjacent double bond, leaving a radical onto the carbon atom. Molecular oxygen attacks this radical leading to produce peroxide and hydroperoxide derivatives of the oligomerized unsaturated plant oils. Because peroxide groups thermally cleave to produce free radicals, hydroperoxide derivatives of unsaturated plant oil oligomers can be used in the free radical polymerization of vinyl monomers leading to the related block/graft copolymers. The obtained copolymers combined with the biodegradable natural plant oil gain superior properties such as biodegradability and softness. In this review article, the in vitro autoxidation of well‐known unsaturated plant oils‐soybean oil, linseed oil, and castor oil and some related unsaturated fatty acids‐oleic acid, linoleic acid, and ricinoleic acid was carried out under atmospheric conditions with or without exposing white light. Because the autoxidized unsaturated oil/fatty acids contain peroxide/hydroperoxide groups (they are referred to as macro peroxide initiators) that they are used in the free radical polymerization of vinyl monomers to obtain block/graft copolymers. The improved polymerization conditions, characterization, and applications of the obtained products will be discussed.
Self‐flocculation and its mechanism of natural rubber latex by accelerant‐modified silica
Authors: Xiao Yao , Xu Zhenchun , Gong Zheng , Li Biao , Huang Yinggang , Bian Huiguang , Wang Chuansheng
Published: May 2023

In this paper, an accelerant with vulcanization‐promoting and silanization‐promoting effects, 1,3‐diphenylguanidine (DPG), is loaded on green filler silica by high‐energy ball milling technology. Meanwhile, DPG breaks the ionization equilibrium of latex and realizes the self‐flocculation. The DPG‐induced self‐flocculation technology promotes the dispersion of silica and the silanization reaction, forming more complete filler‐rubber network and three‐dimensional crosslinking network. X‐ray diffraction, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis results show that the ball milling technology makes DPG strongly adsorbed on the surface of silica, and the loading rate is 14.4%. Compared with dry mixing, the ball milling‐self‐flocculation technology increase the silanization index, tensile strength and aging coefficient by 8%, 31%, and 19%, respectively. The curing rate is improved, and the rolling resistance is the lowest. This research provides a green flocculation technology of the raw materials in formula without other flocculants and acidic wastewater discharge, avoiding the serious dust pollution and high energy consumption in the dry mixing process, as well as the poor aging resistance of rubber in the acid flocculation process of latex.
A review of Chifengiinae (Insecta: Orthoptera: Prophalangopsidae) with description of new Jurassic material from the northwestern Junggar Basin, China
Authors: Xu Chunpeng , Wang He , Fang Yan , Zhang Qianqi , Li Jiahao , Zhang Haichun
Published: May 2023

A complete and well‐preserved forewing assigned to the orthopteran insect Parahagla cheni Xu, Fang and Zhang, 2023 is described from the Lower Jurassic Badaowan Formation of the northwestern Junggar Basin (Karamay, Xinjiang, northwestern China), based on which the species is diagnostically revised. It represents the earliest record of the subfamily Chifengiinae under the family Prophalangopsidae. The subfamily Chifengiinae is reviewed and a key to its genera and species is provided in the discussion. A further discuss of the palaeobiogeographic distribution of Chifengiinae shows that the subfamily probably first appeared in the Palaeoarctic in the earliest Jurassic, and later quickly migrated and occupied most areas of eastern Palaeoarctic from the Middle Jurassic to the Early Cretaceous.
Erläuterungen zur aktuell überarbeiteten Richtlinie 805 zur Bewertung von Ingenieurbauwerken der Deutschen Bahn
Authors: Steffen Sascha , Niemann Peter , Geißler Karsten
Published: May 2023

Für die Nachrechnung und Bewertung von Eisenbahnbrücken hat sich die seit ca. 30 Jahren angewandte Richtlinie 805 sehr gut bewährt. Im Rahmen der aktuellen, durch die DB Netz AG vorgenommenen Überarbeitung der Richtlinie wird eine gewisse Angleichung an die europäischen Normen, insbesondere bei den charakteristischen Werten, Sicherheitsfaktoren und Kombinationsbeiwerten angestrebt. Allerdings muss sehr sensibel mit den normativen Regelungen umgegangen werden, da eine „Neubauvorsorge“ für die Bestandsbewertung nicht möglich und auch nicht notwendig ist – im Gegenteil, diese würde zu volkswirtschaftlich relevanten Fehlbewertungen von Bauwerken mit ausreichender Zuverlässigkeit führen. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden zu den einzelnen Modifikationen der Richtlinie 805 hinsichtlich Festlegungen von Einwirkungen, Sicherheitselementen sowie Nachweisen im Grenzzustand der Tragfähigkeit und der Ermüdung die wesentlichen Hintergründe erläutert.
Mechanisch‐adhäsive Frischbetonverbundsysteme: Untersuchungen zur Verbundentwicklung und Haftzugfestigkeit
Authors: Heinlein Ulli
Published: May 2023

Frischbetonverbundsysteme werden als zusätzlich abdichtende Maßnahme auf wasserundurchlässigen Betonkonstruktionen eingesetzt und bereits vor dem Betoneinbau verlegt. Sie erzielen einen Verbund mit dem Frischbeton und nutzen dafür u. a. Vliese, die während des Betoneinbaus mit Zementleim gefüllt werden müssen. Allerdings ist bisher nicht bekannt, wie sich Zementleim aus dem Frischbeton abtrennt, welche Eigenschaften er im Vlies hat oder welche Vlieseigenschaften für FBVS vorteilhaft sind. Der Beitrag beschäftigt sich daher mit dem Vliesverbund und betrachtet zuerst das Deformationsverhalten der Vliese im Betonierprozess. Während des Betoneinbaus werden Vliese zuerst komprimiert und entspannen sich mit fortlaufender Zementleimfüllung. Sobald der Frischbeton eingebracht ist, beginnen außerdem Filterprozesse, die Überschusswasser und eine begrenzte Menge feiner Feststoffe in das Vlies abtrennen. Dabei bildet sich ein Filterkuchen auf dem Vlies und ein wasserreicher Zementleim im Vlies. Erst mit einsetzender Vibrationsverdichtung wird der Filterkuchen gelockert, weiterer Feststoff in das Vlies eingetragen, das Wasser‐Feststoff‐Verhältnis im Vlies gesenkt und ein Hinterlaufschutz erreicht. Der Haftverbund entwickelt sich anschließend proportional zur Spaltzugfestigkeit des Betons und wird maßgeblich durch die Zementsteinfestigkeit beeinflusst. Porenarme und leichte Vliese sind dabei vorteilhaft, da sie weniger Überschusswasser aus dem Frischbeton abtrennen.
Bioprocess in‐line monitoring using Raman spectroscopy and Indirect Hard Modeling (IHM): A simple calibration yields a robust model
Authors: Müller David Heinrich , Flake Carsten , Brands Thorsten , Koß Hans‐Jürgen
Published: May 2023

To increase the process productivity and product quality of bioprocesses, the in‐line monitoring of critical process parameters is highly important. For monitoring substrate, metabolite, and product concentrations, Raman spectroscopy is a commonly used Process Analytical Technology (PAT) tool that can be applied in‐situ and non‐invasively. However, evaluating bioprocess Raman spectra with a robust state‐of‐the‐art statistical model requires effortful model calibration. In the present study, we in‐line monitored a glucose to ethanol fermentation by Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) using Raman spectroscopy in combination with the physics‐based Indirect Hard Modeling (IHM) and showed successfully that IHM is an alternative to statistical models with significantly lower calibration effort. The IHM prediction model was developed and calibrated with only 16 Raman spectra in total, which did not include any process spectra. Nevertheless, IHM's root mean square errors of prediction (RMSEPs) for glucose (3.68 g/L) and ethanol (1.69 g/L) were comparable to the prediction quality of similar studies that used statistical models calibrated with several calibration batches. Despite our simple calibration, we succeeded in developing a robust model for evaluating bioprocess Raman spectra.
Analysing organisations' engagement with and impacts to sustainability
Authors: Lozano Rodrigo
Published: May 2023

There has been increasing interest on how organisations address the four dimensions of sustainability. Despite calls for a holistic perspective, empirical research on sustainable organisations has been carried out on (1) engagement efforts, focussing inside the organisation, i.e., the system elements engage with sustainability, or (2) efforts to contribute to sustainability, focussing outside the organisation, i.e., how the organisation as a whole impacts sustainability. A survey was developed to investigate engagement of the system elements and their contribution to sustainability, from which 210 full responses were obtained. The data were analysed using descriptive analysis, Friedman test to rank the engagement of the organisation system elements with sustainability, ratio analyses (positive to negative) and ANOVAs regarding organisation type and size. The results show that the organisation system elements most engaged with sustainability are research and management, and strategy, and the least are operations and production, products, procurement, and supply chain. The impact ratios are highest from research, services, and management and strategy. The ANOVA test results demonstrate that the type of organisation does not affect how the system elements engage with and impact sustainability, with some exceptions. The paper proves that the inside and outside sustainability efforts of an organisation are not separated but intertwined through a series of connections. The results are integrated into for the “organisation system elements engagement and impact to sustainability” model. Organisations must take a holistic a systems perspective that considers the system elements engagement and how each of these contribute to sustainability and its dimensions.
Development and characterization of a recombinant silk network for 3D culture of immortalized and fresh tumor‐derived breast cancer cells
Authors: Collodet Caterina , Blust Kelly , Gkouma Savvini , Ståhl Emmy , Chen Xinsong , Hartman Johan , Hedhammar My
Published: May 2023

Traditional cancer models rely on 2D cell cultures or 3D spheroids, which fail to recapitulate cell‐extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions, a key element of tumor development. Existing hydrogel‐based 3D alternatives lack mechanical support for cell growth and often suffer from low reproducibility. Here we report a novel strategy to make 3D models of breast cancer using a tissue‐like, well‐defined network environment based on recombinant spider silk, functionalized with a cell adhesion motif from fibronectin (FN‐silk). With this approach, the canonical cancer cells SK‐BR‐3, MCF‐7, and MDA‐MB‐231, maintain their characteristic expression of markers (i.e., ERα, HER2, and PGR) while developing distinct morphology. Transcriptomic analyses demonstrate how culture in the FN‐silk networks modulates the biological processes of cell adhesion and migration while affecting physiological events involved in malignancy, such as inflammation, remodeling of the ECM, and resistance to anticancer drugs. Finally, we show that integration in FN‐silk networks promotes the viability of cells obtained from the superficial scraping of patients' breast tumors.
Less necessity of adjuvant S‐1 treatment in non‐monarchE‐eligible patients
Authors: Yu Muhan , Takada Mamoru , Yamada Hideyuki , Fujimoto Hiroshi , Sakakibara Junta , Yamamoto Hiroto , Nagashima Takeshi , Ohtsuka Masayuki
Published: May 2023

Background

In monarchE and Postoperative Therapy with Endocrine and TS‐1 (POTENT) trials, abemaciclib and S‐1 have, respectively, shown to be effective as adjuvant therapies for luminal breast cancer (BC), although whether patients who meet the criteria are at high risk of recurrence compared to non‐eligible patients is still unknown. Here, we investigated recurrence risk according to the criteria of each trial in Japanese patients.

Methods

We reviewed the records of 992 patients who received surgery at Chiba University Hospital for stage I–III BC from January 2017 to May 2022 and selected 553 analytic cohort patients and retrospectively analyzed the relapse‐free survival of the patients as the primary endpoint. High‐recurrence risk was defined according to monarchE trial and POTENT trial.

Results

The 5‐year RFS for monarchE cohort 1 and cohort 2 eligible patients were 77.78% and 89.33%, respectively, which were significantly lower than monarchE non‐eligible patients (98.31%; p < 0.0001). However, the 5‐year RFS rate for POTENT eligible patients (90.51%) was lower than for POTENT non‐eligible patients (98.75%; p = 0.0001); excluding those who met the monarchE criteria, the prognosis of POTENT eligible patients had no significant differences from the prognosis of patients with POTENT non‐eligible BC (p = 0.3100).

Conclusion

MonarchE criteria accurately identify patients who are prone to relapse. Moreover, although POTENT criteria also suggested a reasonable capacity for recurrence prediction, there was no significant difference in recurrence between POTENT non‐eligible patients and the patients who were POTENT but not monarchE eligible. This might offer justification for reconsidering the use of S‐1 in monarchE non‐eligible patients.
Systemic treatment in patients with Child–Pugh B liver dysfunction and advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Costa Frederico , Wiedenmann Bertram , Roderburg Christoph , Mohr Raphael , Abou‐Alfa Ghassan K.
Published: May 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of death among patients with liver cirrhosis. The rise of immuno‐oncology has revolutionized treatment for advanced HCC. However, most pivotal randomized controlled trials have excluded patients with moderate liver dysfunction (Child–Pugh–Turcotte B), despite the high incidence of liver disease in patients with HCC at the time of diagnosis. Overall survival in patients with HCC and moderate liver dysfunction treated with sorafenib has been found to be only approximately 3–5 months, underlining the need for improved treatment algorithms for this increasingly important subgroup of patients. In this review, we summarize available data on the treatment of patients with HCC and moderate liver dysfunction. Opportunities, as well as clinical challenges, are discussed in detail, highlighting potential changes to the therapeutic landscape.
Clinical impact of carbon‐ion radiotherapy on hepatocellular carcinoma with Child‐Pugh B cirrhosis
Authors: Hiroshima Yuichi , Wakatsuki Masaru , Kaneko Takashi , Makishima Hirokazu , Okada Naomi Nagatake , Yasuda Shigeo , Ishikawa Hitoshi , Tsuji Hiroshi
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with Child‐Pugh (CP)‐B not eligible for surgery nor other focal therapy options due to impaired liver function, have very limited treatment options. This study aims to retrospectively investigate the toxicity and efficacy of Carbon‐ion radiotherapy (C‐ion RT) on HCC with CP‐B patients.

Materials and Methods

Patients with CP‐B, no extrahepatic metastasis, and treated with C‐ion RT between May 2000 and March 2020 were retrospectively extracted and included in this study.

Results

Sixty‐nine lesions of 58 patients were included. The median follow‐up duration was 20.5 (2.7–108) months. During follow‐up, recurrence was observed in 43 patients, including 2 local recurrences and 39 intrahepatic recurrences beyond the irradiation field. A grade 3 acute hepatotoxicity was observed in one patient during the observation period. No acute or late adverse event of grade ≥4 was observed. Overall survival was 80.4% and 46.0% at 1 and 2 years, respectively, and the median survival time was 22.6 months. Local control rate was 96.4% at both 1 and 2 years, and progression‐free survival was 38.6% and 6.9% at 1 and 2 years, respectively, with a median of 9.7 months.

Conclusion

The C‐ion RT showed low toxicity and good local effect in patients with HCC and CP‐B. Therefore, C‐ion RT could be an appropriate treatment for patients with HCC with poor liver function.
Riley Gaines & attorney discuss impact of trans athletes on women's teams
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: May 2023

Anyone familiar with the controversy surrounding transgender student‐athletes competing on women's teams knows the name Riley Gaines, former 12‐time NCAA All‐American swimmer from the University of Kentucky. Gaines, now Spokeswoman for Independent Women's Forum, and Jennifer C. Braceras, J.D., an Attorney and the Director of Independent Women's Law Center, discussed this hot‐button issue with College Athletics and the Law. The following is an excerpt of our conversation, edited for space and clarity.
Molecular analysis of gene variants in an Iranian family with psychomotor retardation mitochondrial disorder patient
Authors: Shabannejadian Forough , Masoomizadeh Seyedeh Zahra , Andashti Behnaz
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

In 1‐year‐old girl presenting with neurodegenerative mitochondrial disease (Leigh syndrome), mutation analysis was performed by whole exome sequencing. Pathogenic variants were then analyzed in parents and relatives by Sanger sequencing. We identified a point mutation c.G484A in NDUFS8 gene which was homozygous in patient and heterozygous in parents.
Applications of Al2O3‐Based Nano‐Catalysts in Thermocatalytic CO2 Transformations: Impacts of Surface Acidity and Basicity
Authors: Qiu Shuxian , Wu Yingxin , Tan Yongxian , Dai Qiuping , Gao Xingyuan , Kawi Sibudjing
Published: May 2023

Adsorption and activation of CO2 exert a profound impact on the catalytic conversion and stability in thermocatalytic CO2 transformations. To optimize the surface property of Al2O3‐based nano‐catalysts, various modifications focusing on the surface acidity and basicity have been applied and proven effective in promoting the CO2 adsorption and activation, thus enhancing the catalytic performances. In this Review, the beneficial effects of a series of modifications strategies (e. g., promoters and synthesis/treatment methods) on adjusting the surface acidity and basicity of Al2O3‐based nano‐catalysts were comprehensively summarized, covering nearly all types of thermocatalytic CO2 transformations (e. g., reforming and hydrogenation). Moreover, the structure‐performance relationships were discussed in depth by relating to the adsorption, activation and conversion of CO2, selectivity of targeted products as well as the coke resistance and lifespan of catalysts.
Design of Module Type Package Services for Modular Downstream Units and Process Analytic Technology
Authors: Bittorf Lukas , Oeing Jonas , Kock Tobias , Garreis Robert , Kockmann Norbert
Published: May 2023

Modularization of process plants with its standardization activities is one of the current responses to react to dynamic markets, shorter product life cycles, and uncertain supply chains. Standardized solutions for intelligent process equipment assemblies with own automation promise high potential for chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Despite the standardized description of the module type package (MTP) and the corresponding service concept, the implementation of the service logic is left to the manufacturer, which often leads to finding various granular services for different process functions or assemblies. In this contribution, different service design approaches for a generic ‘separate’ service are investigated on the example of a solvent extraction and a distillation column. Additionally, a Raman spectroscope device for process analysis is implemented via MTP with an ‘analyze’ service. Pros and cons of the different service design approaches are discussed in the context of a fast and flexible process development in the laboratory.
Coulombic Efficiency of Lithium Deposition and Stripping on Lithium Metal: A New Method for Measuring
Authors: Hasegawa Takumi , Mori Daisuke , Taminato Sou , Takeda Yasuo , Yamamoto Osamu , Imanishi Nobuyuki
Published: May 2023

Rechargeable lithium metal batteries (RLMBs) have been extensively investigated as a next‐generation battery for electric vehicles because of their two times higher specific energy density than conventional lithium‐ion batteries. However, RLMBs have not been commercialized yet, because of the low coulombic efficiency (CE) of the lithium deposition and stripping process and lithium dendrite formation. CEs measured by a conventional method with a Li/electrolyte/Cu were considerably lower than those measured using full cells of Li/electrolyte/oxide cathode. The discrepancy is considered to be due to the non‐reversibility of the Cu electrode for the lithium deposition and stripping process. Here, we propose a new method to determine the CE of lithium deposition and stripping on lithium metal from the loss of electrolyte using a Li/electrolyte/Li cell with a limited amount of electrolyte.
Impact of climate smart agriculture on households’ resilience and vulnerability: An example from Central Rift Valley, Ethiopia
Authors: Ali Hussien , Menza Mesfin , Hagos Fitsum , Haileslassie Amare
Published: May 2023

Climate change is causing serious challenges for smallholder farm households, especially in sub‐Saharan Africa. The overarching objectives of this study are as follows: (i) to estimate household resilience and vulnerability indices, (ii) identify factors that explain these indices and (iii) to examine the impact of climate‐smart agriculture (CSA) on households’ resilience and vulnerability, and (iv) to identify which CSA package performs better in enhancing resilience and reducing vulnerability. For this study, 278 farm households from 4 districts and 8 kebeles from the Central Rift Valley (CRV) of Ethiopia were randomly selected using a three‐stage proportional to size sampling procedure. Cross‐sectional data applying a structured and pretested survey questionnaire was collected for 2020/21 production season. Household resilience and vulnerability indices were estimated using resilience index and measurement analysis and indicators approaches, respectively. Multinomial endogenous switching regression was used to estimate the average treatment effects (ATEs) of the adoption of CSA practices on households’ resilience and vulnerability. The results show that livestock holding, land size, level of education, and state of food consumption are major explaining factors of resilience, whereas educational level of households, livestock holding, and access to credit are found to be major factors explaining vulnerability. The estimated ATEs indicate that households which adopted more diversified combinations of CSA packages were more resilient and less vulnerable than non‐adopter households. The impacts of soil fertility management and conservation agriculture practices have better performance in improving resilience, whereas conservation agriculture and small‐scale irrigation performed better in reducing the vulnerability of rural households in CRV. Boosting resilience and reducing vulnerability, hence, requires scaling up CSA among smallholder farmers by diversifying and raising farm households’ income, educational status, and livestock holding.
Authentication of fog‐assisted IoT networks using Advanced Encryption credibility approach with modified Diffie–Hellman encryption
Authors: Luqman Mohammad , Faridi Arman Rasool
Published: May 2023

Cloud storage in the network enables the users to access the data from anywhere irrespective of any devices, which prevents data loss and provides centralized management. The cloud server is a pooled, centrally located server resource that many users can access as needed. More efficient data storage and processing could be achieved through fog computing devices and, the fog node handles the task including the semantic transformation of the data before transmitting it to the back‐end cloud servers, managing the process of data from several edge devices simultaneously. The security of the cloud and fog nodes acts as a key component, and that must be ensured for effective computations. In this research, the security of the fog‐assisted Internet of Things (IoT) network is enhanced using the proposed advanced encryption credibility approach (Ad‐En credibility approach), which ensures the privacy and security of the networks by preventing malicious attempts of accessing the data. The proposed Ad‐En credibility approach is performed based on a modified Diffie‐Hellman algorithm that consists of different phases such as the setup phase, entry and identity phase, fog node entry validation phase, and authentication phase. These phases perform different functions and provide strong authentication mechanisms that secure the data with high confidentiality by detecting malicious attempts within a reduced time. The efficiency of the research is proved by measuring the computational time, memory usage, and detection rate. The proposed Ad‐En credibility approach consumed less time of 7 s and memory usage of 8.17 mb with a high detection rate of 85.34%.
Near‐IR Fluorescent Recognition of Arginine: High Chemoselectivity and Enantioselectivity Promoted by La3+
Authors: Guo Hongyu , Yang Jiaqiao , Zeng Jian , Yu Xiaoqi , Yu Shanshan , Pu Lin
Published: May 2023

The first near IR fluorescent probe for the chemoselective and enantioselective recognition of arginine in aqueous solution is reported in this work. This probe, made of a 1,1’‐binaphthyl‐based chiral aldehyde unit and a rhodamine‐based near IR chromophore, in combination with La3+ exhibits highly chemoselective as well as enantioselective fluorescent enhancement with arginine at λ=764 nm upon excitation at λ=690 nm. Little or no fluorescent response is observed toward the chirality miss‐matched arginine enantiomer or other common amino acids and their enantiomers. This probe also allows visual discrimination of the arginine enantiomers because of its fast and distinct color change upon interaction with the substrate.
Confirmatory DPYD Testing in Patients Receiving Fluoropyrimidines Who are Suspected DPYD Variant Carriers Based on a Genetic Data Repository
Authors: Pasternak Amy L. , Seda Robinson , Lipa Joseph , McDevitt Rachel L. , Crysler Oxana V. , Swiecicki Paul L. , Schneider Bryan J. , Vanderwerff Brett , Henry N. Lynn , Krauss John C. , Sahai Vaibhav , Hertz Daniel L.
Published: May 2023

Using pharmacogenetics (PGx) to inform clinical decision making can benefit patients but clinical use of PGx testing has been limited. Existing genetics data obtained in the course of research could be used to identify patients who are suspected, but have not yet been confirmed, to carry clinically actionable genotypes, in whom confirmatory genetic testing could be conducted for highly efficient PGx implementation. Herein, we demonstrate that it is regulatorily and technically feasible to implement PGx by identifying suspected carriers of actionable genotypes within an institutional genetics data repository and conduct confirmatory PGx testing immediately prior to that patient receiving the PGx‐relevant drug, using a case study of DPYD testing prior to fluoropyrimidine chemotherapy. In 2 years since launching this program, ~ 3,000 suspected DPYD carriers have been passively monitored and one confirmed DPYD carrier was prevented from receiving unacceptably toxic fluoropyrimidine treatment, for minimal cost and effort. Now that we have demonstrated the feasibility of this strategy, we plan to transition to PGx panel testing and expand implementation to other genes and drugs for which the evidence of clinical benefit of PGx‐informed treatment is high but PGx testing is not generally conducted. This highly efficient implementation process will maximize the clinical benefits of testing and could be explored at other institutions that have research‐only genetic data repositories to expand the number of patients who benefit from PGx‐informed treatment while we continue to work toward wide‐scale adoption of PGx testing and implementation.
Imaging Subcellular AMPK Activity Using an Excitation‐Ratiometric AMPK Activity Reporter
Authors: Schmitt Danielle L.
Published: May 2023

Adenosine monophosphate (AMP)‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a master regulator of cellular metabolism, phosphorylating a variety of downstream targets throughout the cell. Subcellular AMPK activity results in regulation of glycolysis, lipid and protein biosynthesis, mitochondrial function, and gene expression. But how AMPK senses and responds to stimuli in a compartment‐specific manner is not well understood, leaving an incomplete picture of compartmentalized AMPK activity. Key tools for studying subcellular AMPK activity are genetically encoded AMPK activity reporters (AMPKARs), which allow for the quantitative visualization of subcelluar AMPK activity. However, many AMPKARs suffer from poor dynamic range and sensitivity, limiting their application. I recently reported the development of a new excitation‐ratiometric (ExRai) AMPKAR, a single‐fluorophore AMPKAR with enhanced dynamic range for detection of subtle, subcellular AMPK activity. I used ExRai AMPKAR to study subcellular AMPK activity at several locations, including the lysosome and mitochondria, identifying new mechanisms for the regulation of AMPK activity. Here, I describe the use of ExRai AMPKAR to image subcellular AMPK activity in mouse embryonic fibroblasts using both widefield and confocal microscopy. I also describe the culture of mouse embryonic fibroblasts. Through the use of ExRai AMPKAR, subcellular AMPK activity can be illuminated to better understand how this central kinase regulates cellular metabolism. © 2023 The Author. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: Imaging subcellular AMPK activity using ExRai AMPKAR

Support Protocol 1: Culturing of mouse embryonic fibroblasts for live‐cell imaging

Support Protocol 2: Live‐cell imaging of ExRai AMPKAR using confocal microscopy
Step‐By‐Step Tips to Grow X‐Ray Quality Single Crystals of Metal Macrocyclic Complexes
Authors: Gupta Gajendra , Lee Chang Yeon
Published: May 2023

Metal macrocyclic complexes, which are formed through a self‐assembly process due to the presence of several coordinating sites in the metal and ligand source, represent an interesting class of complexes due to their intriguing structures and functionalities. Although spectral characterization of metal macrocyclic complexes is reported, elucidation of their exact structure at the molecular level remains challenging. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) is a non‐destructive analytical technique that can provide detailed information about the internal lattice of crystalline structure. However, it requires the growth of single crystals of suitable sizes and quality. This study provides an overview of methods that are most useful for developing single crystals of metal macrocyclic complexes, particularly when the macrocycle of interest is present in extremely low quantities (a few milligrams). The reproducibility of previous methods reporting the crystal growth of different metal macrocycles is also investigated. A review highlighting and summarizing the most common tips to grow single crystals for metal macrocyclic complexes can help in understanding and optimizing the growth of crystals suitable for SCXRD.