bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Oral versus Intravenous Calcium Supplementation in Plateletpheresis Donors: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Kumar V Naveen , Umesh D , Sivaramakrishnan A , Pothipillai Arumugam
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Single Donor Platelets (SDP) are in high demand and are the preferred choice for patients requiring recurrent platelet transfusions. Citrate, being the anticoagulant of choice, may result in symptoms of citrate toxicity due to repeated frequent donations or increased procedure time. Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the role of prophylactic calcium supplementation (oral vs intravenous) on plateletpheresis donors and correlate their effects with adverse donor reactions (citrate toxicity). Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study on plateletpheresis donors was conducted for a period of one year in the Department of Transfusion Medicine at Government Royapettah Hospital, The Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University, Chennai, India. It included 63 plateletpheresis donors divided into two groups based on random allocation-the Oral calcium supplementation group (n=32 donors) and the intravenous calcium supplementation group (n=31 donors). For both groups, their biochemical parameters (serum calcium, serum ionised calcium, serum magnesium) were measured before and within 30 minutes after the plateletpheresis procedure. The parameters were analysed for symptoms of citrate toxicity. Analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Software version 20.0, and paired t-test was used for analysing biochemical parameters. Results: A statistically significant decline in serum ionised calcium levels (1.17±0.09 vs 1.10±0.11) (preprocedure level vs postprocedure level) was observed in the oral calcium supplementation group compared to the intravenous calcium supplementation group (1.07±0.25 vs 1.11±0.14). The authors observed a decline in the mean levels of serum calcium in both the oral calcium group (10.33±1.62 vs 9.88±1.00) and the intravenous calcium group (10.31±1.33 vs 10.21±0.88). Furthermore, the authors observed a decline in mean serum magnesium levels in the oral calcium group (2.13±0.30 vs 2.07±0.24) with no difference observed in the intravenous calcium group (2.14±0.22 vs 2.14±0.14). Mild citrate toxicity symptoms in the form of tingling sensation and perioral paraesthesia were observed in 26 out of 32 donors in the oral calcium group, whereas no symptoms were recorded in the intravenous calcium group. Conclusion: Prophylactic intravenous calcium supplementation resulted in better bioavailability of serum ionised calcium levels with no citrate toxicity symptoms compared to oral calcium supplementation. This results in better retention of plateletpheresis donors, enabling smooth and comfortable collection of a high concentration of platelets from a single donor. However, it is imperative to conduct more studies with a larger number of plateletpheresis donors to observe donor adverse reactions specific to the population.
Quality of Reception with Risk Classification in Urgent and Emergency Services
Authors: Lima Wilhames Rodrigues da Silva , Barros Ciane Regina Alves , Nakamura Viviane Lima , Texeira Tiago de Lima Vieira , Silva Fábio Salgado da , Lima Vitor Hugo Auzier , Anjos Thiago Augusto Ferreira dos , Sousa Daniele Salgado de
Published: December 2023

Introduction: The Reception with Risk Classification (ACCR) is an important tool for the Urgency and Emergency Services (SUE). Objective: To describe the frequency with which publications on ACCR have been occurring in the Brazilian scientific literature in recent years.

Methods: A bibliographic study was carried out, with a qualitative approach, for literature review based on the use of the keyword "reception with risk classification", in the Regional Portal of the VHL using two databases.  

Results: We found 102 publications, 68 belonging to the LILACS database and 52 to the BDENF database, where 13 articles that were published between 2015 and 2019 were selected for full reading. It was noted that most of the publications focused on 2015, with emphasis on the southern region, in addition to most portraying the evaluation of the ACCR by the nurse. 

Conclusion: It is evident the need to expand research on quality in the ACCR both for the qualification of nursing professionals, as well as in the structural and human resources sectors, especially in the northern region of the country.
The Contribution of Pipper nigrum L. to the Livelihoods of the Main Value Chain Actors in Njombe-Penja Sub-Division of the Littoral Region of Cameroon
Authors: Ndumbe Louis Njie , Ndokon Audrey Pascale
Published: December 2023

The main objective of this study was to contribute to the sustainable trade of pipper nigrum L. from the forest area of Njombe-Penja for improved livelihoods of the actors involved in the value chain and poverty reduction. Despite the availability and the importance of non-timbers forests products in poverty reduction, sustainable livelihoods, food security, and conservation of natural resources, the market chain of Pipper Nigrum L. is still poorly understood as no study has yet been done on the contribution of white pepper to the livelihoods of the main value chain actors in Njombe-Penja sub-division. To achieve this objective, a market prospection and snowball sampling technique was used to identify the main actors of Pipper Nigrum L. in Njombe-Penja sub-division, Mungo Division of the Littoral Region of Cameroon. The main actors identified were stratified based on their role in the value chain (havesters, distributors, wholesalers and retaliers) from which individuals were randomly selected from each group. Surveys was used to capture primary quantitative data from the selected individuals. Before the full-scale study, a pilot test was conducted in Penja which tested the effectiveness of the questionnaires and to make necessary adjustments. To ensure reliability, the same survey protocol was used throughout the study. The questionnaires were also reviewed by other experts in the field. The data collected was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics in Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0 and the Microsoft tool (Microsoft Excel 10). The annual profit margins (considering profits from January to December 2022) was calculated for the main actors as well as the contribution of white pepper to their household incomes.The results reveal that distributors make the highest annual profit margin (20,250,000 FCFA) followed by wholesalers (2,288,541 FCFA), producers (1,248,692 FCFA) and retailers (305,329 FCFA). According to the sample T test the contribution of white pepper to the total household income was statistically significant for all actors. These results suggest that white pepper plays an important economic role in the household economy necessitating the valorization of the Penja white pepper value chain by the government and other development actors.
Exploratory Search Prompt Generation using n-Degree Connection in Knowledge Graph
Authors: Gupta Sudhanshu , Tiwari Krishna Kumar
Published: December 2023

Search engines play a vital role in retrieving in- formation, but users often struggle to express their precise information needs, resulting in less-than-optimal search results. Therefore, enhancing search query refinement is crucial to elevate the accuracy and relevance of search outcomes. One particular challenge that existing search engines face is presenting refined results for queries containing two or more unrelated entities.

This paper presents a novel approach for efficient search prompt generation by leveraging connected nodes and attributes in the knowledge graph. We propose a comprehensive exploration technique that explores the n-degrees connections and their at- tributes to generate all possible imaginative prompts. We realized that n-degrees connection exploration is an expensive task, hence we conducted experiments to determine the effectiveness of 2- degree exploration prompts in covering all the user-asked queries within the provided dataset.

In testing with approximately 2000 queries on a related knowl- edge graph dataset, we found out that our proposed methodol- ogy significantly improved query coverage. At n=1 depth, the coverage increased from 58% without the methodology to 84% with it. At n=2 depth, the coverage rose from 92% without the methodology to nearly 99% with it. Additionally, due to our question caching strategy at n=2, we observed faster response times for all questions.
Crop Cultivation Strategies in Punjab, India: A Focus on Fatehgarh Sahib Rupnagar District
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Raj Rishabh , Kumar Avinash , Bhuyan Samiha Nawrin
Published: December 2023

The study is about a comparative analysis of agronomic practices by farmers at a grassroot level. The study aims to understand and improve agricultural sustainability and productivity by examining crop cultivation and soil and water management methods as well as challenges and opportunities in local farming. The study was carried out under RAWE programme and conducted by University Institute of Agriculture Science (UIAS), Chandigharh University Mohali, Punjab, between August 2023 and September 2023. The research focused more on the practices followed by the respondents of Fatehgarh Sahib and Rupnagar in the Punjab district. The survey data is collected from six villages namely hhoti Mandauli, Rattangarh, Ramgarh Manda, Bhadwali, Bhateri and Bari Mandauli. The main crops cultivated in those areas were paddy (100%), wheat (98.46%), maize (29.23%) and sugarcane (30%). The source of irrigation is a tube well and the source of seed is mainly from input dealers. Almost all farmers are not using the recommended dose of fertilizer and urea (100%) is excessively applied in the field. Echinochloa crus-galli is the major concern of the farmers; almost 100% during the kharif season in paddy. Phalaris minor is the major problem of all the respondents at 100 % in rabi season. The chemical method is used by farmers to control weeds. The average approximate yields for paddy, wheat and sugarcane were 74.92, 53.66 and 296.6 quintals per hectare respectively. In post-harvest management, the majority of the farmers sell their produce and keep a few quintals for self-consumption. After having interaction with farmers their agronomic practices management was sustainable and productive. This research has contributed to the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly farming techniques to enhance the livelihood of farmers and promote sustainable agriculture in the districts.
Optimizing Rabi Chilli Production: Examining the Impact of Fertigation and Drip Irrigation Levels in the Context of Mulching Practices on Yield and Quality
Authors: Bathula Rani , Devi M. Uma , Madhavi A. , Kumar K. Avil , Akula Baby , Triveni S.
Published: December 2023

The field investigation was carried out to evaluate the influence of fertigation levels, mulch and drip irrigation levels on yield and yield quality at WTC fields, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Telangana during 2020-21 and 2021-22. The study was consisted of 12 treatment combinations viz. 75%, 100% (300-60-120 kg ha-1 N-P2O5-K2O & 125% RDF, drip irrigation levels (0.8 Epan & 1.0 Epan) imposed under factorial combination of mulch (M1) and no mulch (M0) conditions. An investigation was undertaken during rabi season. Among the fertigation levels, 100% RDF (31.15 t ha-1, 195.04 mg 100 g-1, 10.33% & 0.94%, respectively) recorded the higher fresh fruit yield, ascorbic acid content, oleoresin content and capsaicin content in pooled data. With regards to mulch, the M1 has recorded the maximum values for fresh fruit yield (37.56 t ha-1), ascorbic acid content (224.43), oleoresin content (11.11%) and capsaicin content (0.74%) in pooled data.
Post-COVID-19 Clinical Symptom Frequency and Associated Factors in a Cohort of Patients Discharged from the ICU and Monitored for 12 Months, in Libreville, Gabon
Authors: Charleine Manomba Boulingui , Bridy Moutombi Ditombi , Moukady Jean Félix Ngomas , Magalie Essomeyo Mebale , Marion Ntsame Owono Michelle , Davy Kombila Ulrich , Philomene Kouna Ndouongo , Marielle Bouyou Akotet
Published: December 2023

Aims: This study determined the prevalence and evolution of long COVID symptoms in patients hospitalized for severe COVID-19 at the CHUL intensive care unit in Libreville, Gabon.

Study Design: Prospective, longitudinal, study.

Place and Duration of Study: Infectiology Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Libreville Hospitalier Universitaire de LibrevH (CHUL), between January 2021 and January 2022.

Methodology: We included 144 patients (84 men, 60 women; median age 46.4 [16-88] years) hospitalized in the intense care unit for a RT-PCR- confirmed COVID-19 and who have accepted a one-year follow-up. All patients were consulted quarterly for 12 months. During the follow-up, existence, appearance and types of symptoms were sought at 3, 6 and 12-months post-hospitalization.

Results: The prevalence of long COVID-19 was 52.1% (n=75/144). Fatigue (21.3%), cough (20.8%), sleep disorders (16.0%) and anxiety (11.1%) predominated at month-3. The main symptoms reported 6-months after the onset of infection were dyspnea (9.7%; n=14), anxiety (7.6%; n=11), fatigue (6.2%; n=9) and cough (3.5%; n=5). One year after, the persistent symptoms were anxiety (6.5%; n=9), dyspnea (1.4%; n=2). Most participants had only one symptom: 60% at month-3, 79.5% at month-6 and 77.8% at 12-months (p=0.04).

Conclusion: The long COVID is frequent among patients hospitalized for severe form of SARS-COV-2 infection. It is imperative to continue generating information for appropriate prevention and monitoring measures to be adopted in Gabon.
Impact of Saroglitazar as an Add-on Therapy to Rosuvastatin in Patients with Diabetic Dyslipidemia– A Prospective, Single Centre, Observational Study in Indian Patients
Authors: Singh Harmanpreet , Sethi Gurpreet , Jhaveri Kunal
Published: December 2023

Background: Diabetic dyslipidemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus is defined by elevated TG levels and decreased HDL-C levels, as well as elevated or normal LDL-C levels. In diabetic dyslipidemia, the addition of saroglitazar to statins may provide comprehensive control of lipid parameters as well as good glycemic control, particularly in patients with high TG levels that are not controlled by statins alone.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety profile of saroglitazar as an add-on therapy in patients with diabetic dyslipidemia already receiving rosuvastatin therapy.

Methods: In this open-label, prospective, single-center, observational study, newly diagnosed DM patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups, Rosuvastatin only (R) or Rosuvastatin plus Saroglitazar (RS). Both groups received rosuvastatin for 12 weeks, after which group R received the same treatment for another 12 weeks, and group RS received saroglitazar 4mg in addition to rosuvastatin for another 12 weeks. At the end of 24 weeks, the primary outcome measured were changes in baseline lipid parameters total cholesterol, serum TG, LDL, VLDL, HDL, and glycemic parameter HbA1c between and within Group R and Group RS. Secondary outcomes included changes in metabolic parameters such as blood urea, serum creatinine, SGOT, SGPT, and CPK, as well as reported adverse events. These assessments were made for both Group R and Group RS at both the 12-week and 24-week.

Result: When compared to Group R, patients in Group RS improved significantly in lipid parameters such as total cholesterol, serum TG, LDL, VLDL, HDL, and glycemic parameter HbA1c at the end of 24 weeks. Secondary outcomes revealed that Group RS had no significant side effects when compared to Group R, as evidenced by low fluctuations in renal and hepatic markers such as B. urea, S. Creatinine, SGOT, SGPT, and CPK levels over 24 weeks. As a result, the safety profiles of the combination treatment and rosuvastatin alone were comparable.

Conclusion: Saroglitazar, when combined with rosuvastatin, was found to improve lipid and glycemic parameters in diabetic dyslipidemia patients who were already on rosuvastatin.
Factors that Contribute to Marriage Breakdown among Young Couples in the Ghanaian Context
Authors: Ameyaw John Garin Isaac , Dankwa Shirley , Eshun Isaac
Published: December 2023

Aims: The study aimed to establish the reasons for marriage breakdown among young couples.

Approach and Design: The qualitative approach and case study design were adopted for the study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Bomso in the Oforikrom Municipality in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. It was conducted between August 2022 and May 2023.

Methodology: The purposive sampling technique was used to select twelve (12) participants for the study between the ages of 35 years and below as a criterion. Data was analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings: The analysis shows lack of respect, lack of responsibility, differences in decision-making, family interference, differences in values and beliefs, infidelity, and miscommunication were identified as reasons for the breakdown of marriages among young couples. Also, the findings show there are many implications of marriage breakdown among young couples including; financial burden, loneliness and emotional disturbance, additional responsibility for children, temptation to commit adultery, and uncertainty about the future.

Conclusion: In all, the most significant issue identified in the breakdown of marriages among young couples in Bomso was a lack of respect, followed by a lack of responsibility and differences in decision-making.
Theme: Thermal and Dynamic Study of Convection-Radiation Coupling in a Closed Enclosure
Authors: Adrien Sanembaye , Amadou Konfé , Karim Toussakoe , Maurice KY Thierry Sikoudouin , Joseph Bathiebo Dieudonné
Published: December 2023

In this work, we present a two-dimensional study of natural convection in a square air-filled cavity whose two vertical sides are subjected to a temperature difference, while the other two horizontal ones are adiabatic. The numerical method used is that of finite elements used in the COMSOL calculation code. We first studied pure natural convection, by varying the Rayleigh number from  to , then its coupling with surface radiation, by varying the emissivity of the cavity surfaces from 0 to 0.6. The results are presented in the form of isotherms, pressure, current etc. It appears from this study that for a Rayleigh number less than 100, the fluid presents a vertical thermal stratification due to heat transfer only by conduction which does not generate any convective flow. The presence of surface radiation does not modify the equations governing fluid movements but only alternates the thermal boundary conditions. The coupling of natural convection and surface radiation occurs only through thermal boundary conditions. The variation in the emissivity of the walls does not influence the temperature isotherms.
A Battery‐Free Low‐Cost Paper‐Based Microfluidic Actuator
Authors: Kwan Kin Wa , Wu Runni , Li Wei , Yin Yuyang , Chen Xiaodie , Ngan Alfonso Hing Wan
Published: December 2023

This study presents a novel approach to create a low‐cost and user‐friendly water‐induced actuator based on hydrophobic papers and a simple embossing method. By injecting water onto the papers through microfluidic channels made by embossing, fast and reversible bending actuation can be induced. The actuation angle and speed are dependent on the amount and duration of the water applied, which allows the actuator to be effectively controlled by syringe injection/drawing without the need for an external power supply. A bending angle of >90° can be achieved in ≈15 s, with complete reversal attainable in ≈3 min; and the actuation can be induced again by resting for ≈1 h after the reversal. This work represents a significant contribution to the field of paper‐based microfluidics by demonstrating actuation in a battery‐free, low‐cost, and simple approach, with potential applications in paper‐based analytical devices such as medical diagnostics.
LiZn/Li2O Induced Chemical Confinement Enabling Dendrite‐Free Li‐Metal Anode
Authors: Qian Huaming , Li Xiangyang , Chen Qinchuan , Liu Wen , Zhao Zhu , Ma Zhengdong , Cao Yanyan , Wang Jingjing , Li Wenbin , Xu Kaihua , Zhang Kun , Yan Wei , Zhang Jiujun , Li Xifei
Published: December 2023

Li metal has been considered as a potential anode candidate for next‐generation high‐energy Li‐metal batteries, even though the uncontrollable growth of Li dendrites shortens their cycling lifespan. Herein, a reliable and dendrite‐free Li‐metal anode is fabricated via inducing chemical confinement based on an atomic layer deposited lithiophilic ZnO in situ generating LiZn/Li2O arrays. In a configuration, the arrays consisting of uniformly distributed LiZn and Li2O phases, the lithiophilic Li2O phases with favorable Li diffusion barrier guarantee the preferential Li nucleation and prevent the Li diffusion to some sites with uneven charge accumulation. Furthermore, these functional LiZn/Li2O configurations with satisfied localized free electron distribution can effectively decompose the Li clusters to prevent Li aggregation. Meanwhile, the electron‐conductive LiZn phases ensure efficient electron transfer throughout the configuration. Therefore, the LiZn/Li2O‐derived chemical confinement enables uniform Li deposition. Consequently, the as‐prepared Li‐metal anode presents an overpotential <45 mV at 15 mA cm−2 in the symmetrical cells. Moreover, the preferable cycling stability and rate capability are delivered by the as‐assembled cells with a LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (NCM622) cathode. It is believed that the strategy proposed here can be also beneficial to other effective chemical confinement systems for fabricating high‐performance Li metal anode.
Producing a Room Temperature Phosphorescent Film from Natural Wood Using a Top‐Down Approach
Authors: Liu Ruixia , Guo Hongda , Cao Mengnan , Dang Ben , Zhai Yingxiang , Liu Shouxin , Li Shujun , Li Jian , James Tony D. , Chen Zhijun
Published: December 2023

Producing mechanic robust and sustainable room temperature phosphorescent (RTP) films in a convenient manner is a fundamental requirement but remains challenging. Here, an efficient “top‐down” method for processing natural wood into RTP films is developed. Specifically, natural wood is partially delignified to increase its processability in the first step. After that, the treated wood is converted to W‐film with a tensile strength of 273.6 MPa via mechanical pressing. The lignin units are well confined by cellulose in the W‐film, triggering RTP emission with a lifetime of ≈241.9 ms. Additionally, the W‐film exhibits good processability and energy transfer properties with Rhodamine B (RhB). Therefore, a series of multifunctional afterglow 2D and 3D RTP materials are constructed using W‐film as a building block. This research is expected to result in a convenient and sustainable method for the preparation of RTP films.
Conductive Microgel Annealed Scaffolds Enhance Myogenic Potential of Myoblastic Cells
Authors: Casella Alena , Lowen Jeremy , Griffin Katherine H. , Shimamoto Nathan , Ramos‐Rodriguez David H. , Panitch Alyssa , Leach J. Kent
Published: December 2023

Conductive biomaterials may capture native or exogenous bioelectric signaling, but incorporation of conductive moieties is limited by cytotoxicity, poor injectability, or insufficient stimulation. Microgel annealed scaffolds are promising as hydrogel‐based materials due to their inherent void space that facilitates cell migration and proliferation better than nanoporous bulk hydrogels. Conductive microgels are generated from poly(ethylene) glycol (PEG and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT: PSS) to explore the interplay of void volume and conductivity on myogenic differentiation. PEDOT: PSS increases microgel conductivity two‐fold while maintaining stiffness, annealing strength, and viability of associated myoblastic cells. C2C12 myoblasts exhibit increases in the late‐stage differentiation marker myosin heavy chain as a function of both porosity and conductivity. Myogenin, an earlier marker, is influenced only by porosity. Human skeletal muscle‐derived cells exhibit increased Myod1, insulin like growth factor‐1, and insulin‐like growth factor binding protein 2 at earlier time points on conductive microgel scaffolds compared to non‐conductive scaffolds. They also secrete more vascular endothelial growth factor at early time points and express factors that led to macrophage polarization patterns observe during muscle repair. These data indicate that conductivity aids myogenic differentiation of myogenic cell lines and primary cells, motivating the need for future translational studies to promote muscle repair.
The Synthesis of (E)‐Vinyl and Alkynyl Sulfones by the Formation of an Electron Donor‐Acceptor Complex Using Thiosulfonates and Sodium Iodide Under Visible Light
Authors: Cao Kun , Zhang Naiyou , Lin Li , Shen Qing , Jiang Hezhong , Li Jiahong
Published: December 2023

A method for the synthesis of (E)‐vinyl sulfones and alkynyl sulfones through the cleavage of thiosulfonate promoted by the formation of EDA complexes under visible light irradiation at room temperature without the need for other metal catalysts is described. The mechanism study shows that sodium iodide and thiosulfonate form EDA complexes under visible light irradiation, resulting in a single‐electron transfer cleavage to generate sulfonyl radicals, which then react with olefins or alkynes to produce (E)‐vinyl sulfones or alkynyl sulfones, respectively. This method is applicable to 44 olefin and alkyne substrates, with yields ranging from 38% to 90%, providing a radical synthesis approach for the preparation of sulfonylated compounds.
Mg(II)‐Catalyzed [4+2] Annulation for the Synthesis of 2‐Arylquinoline Motifs: Applications and DFT Studies
Authors: Yang Tao , Qin Yibo , Wang Yaping , Song Fu , Xiong Heng‐Ying , Wang Teng , Zhang Guangwu
Published: December 2023

Mg‐catalyzed [4+2] cycloaddition reactions between 2‐aminobenzaldehydes and ynones offered an array of 2‐arylquinoline motifs merged with a CF3‐acyl group. Furthermore, with Mg‐catalyzed [4+2] annulation as the key step, DDD107498, DDD102542, and Hit analogues were assembled. Finally, a computational study of the reaction mechanism was conducted.
Cyclisation of Alkynyl Alcohols and Carboxylic Acids Mediated by N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Copper(I) Complexes
Authors: Pimpasri Chaleena , Luo Xiurong , Yang Shuai , Díez‐González Silvia
Published: December 2023

The cyclisation of alkynyl alcohols and carboxylic acids in the presence of a [Cu(NHC)2]X complex is reported. The reactions were carried out in technical grade toluene in the presence of air with a catalyst that is readily accessible. N‐Heterocyclic carbenes are recognised for stabilising metal centres in a range of oxidation states, and this work further supports that NHCs can also be used as activation sites in air and moisture stable yet active catalysts.
Why Hydrogen Dissociation Catalysts do not Work for Hydrogenation of Magnesium
Authors: Kazaz Selim , Billeter Emanuel , Longo Filippo , Borgschulte Andreas , Łodziana Zbigniew
Published: December 2023

Provision of atomic hydrogen by hydrogen dissociation catalysts only moderately accelerates the hydrogenation rate of magnesium. They shed light on this well‐known but technically challenging fact through a combined approach using an unconventional surface science technique together with Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. The calculations demonstrate the drastic electronic structure changes during transformation of Mg to MgH2, which make fractional hydrogen coverage on the surface, as well as substoichiometric hydrogen content in the bulk energetically unfavorable. Reflecting Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (REELS) is used to measure the surface and bulk plasmon during hydrogen sorption in magnesium. The measurements show that the hydrogenation proceeds via the growth of magnesium hydride without the presence of chemisorbed hydrogen on the metallic magnesium surface exactly as indicated by the calculations. This is due to the low stability of sub‐stoichiometric amounts of chemisorbed H correlating with the unfavorable charge state of Mg. They are merely bound to the unchanged adjacent Mg layers, thereby explaining the failure of classical hydrogenation catalysts, which effectively only hydrogenate Mg in their direct vicinity. The acceleration of hydrogen sorption kinetics in Mg must affect the polarization in the interface between Mg and MgH2 during hydrogenation.
An Alternating Current Electroosmotic Flow‐Based Ultrasensitive Electrochemiluminescence Microfluidic System for Ultrafast Monitoring, Detection of Proteins/miRNAs in Unprocessed Samples
Authors: Xiong Huiwen , Zhu Chenxin , Dai Changhao , Ye Xin , Li Yuanyuan , Li Pintao , Yang Shuang , Ashraf Ghazala , Wei Dacheng , Chen Hui , Shen Huali , Kong Jilie , Fang Xueen
Published: December 2023

Early diagnosis of acute diseases is restricted by the sensitivity and complex process of sample treatment. Here, an ultrasensitive, rapid, and portable electrochemiluminescence‐microfluidic (ECL‐M) system is described via sandwich‐type immunoassay and surface plasmonic resonance (SPR) assay. Using a sandwich immunoreaction approach, the ECL‐M system employs cardiac troponin‐I antigen (cTnI) as a detection model with a Ru@SiO2 NPs labeled antibody as the signal probe. For miR‐499‐5p detection, gold nanoparticles generate SPR effects to enhance Ru(bpy)32+ ECL signals. The system based on alternating current (AC) electroosmotic flow achieves an LOD of 2 fg mL−1 for cTnI in 5 min and 10 aM for miRNAs in 10 min at room temperature. The point‐of‐care testing (POCT) device demonstrated 100% sensitivity and 98% specificity for cTnI detection in 123 clinical serum samples. For miR‐499‐5p, it exhibited 100% sensitivity and 97% specificity in 55 clinical serum samples. Continuous monitoring of these biomarkers in rats' saliva, urine, and interstitial fluid samples for 48 hours revealed observations rarely documented in biotic fluids. The ECL‐M POCT device stands as a top‐performing system for ECL analysis, offering immense potential for ultrasensitive, rapid, highly accurate, and facile detection and monitoring of acute diseases in POC settings.
Ultrafast Non‐Equilibrium Phase Transition Induced Twin Boundaries of Spinel Lithium Manganate
Authors: Guo Zhaoxin , Jiang Haoran , Sun Xinyuan , Li Xinbo , Liu Zhedong , Zhang Jingchao , Luo Jiawei , Zhang Jinfeng , Tao Xian‐Sen , Ding Jianxu , Han Xiaopeng , Liu Rui , Chen Yanan , Hu Wenbin
Published: December 2023

Defect engineering is demonstrated to be an important factor in enhancing the electrochemical performance of lithium‐ion batteries by improving structural stability and ion diffusion. However, conventional synthetic methods have long and complicated processes, making it challenging to effectively and easily introduce defects into electrode materials. In this work, a high‐temperature shock technique (HTS) with an ultrafast heating and cooling process that can quickly introduce twin boundaries (TBs) into phase‐pure spinel LiMn2O4 in seconds is reported. Various ex situ techniques reveal the crystallization mechanism of LiMn2O4 during ultrafast synthesis. LiMn2O4 with TBs exhibits a higher rate performance than that obtained from the traditional method. Additionally, alien elements can be evenly incorporated into LiMn2O4 in seconds, resulting in excellent cycling performance. For instance, 2% Ni‐doped LiMn2O4 shows an initial capacity of 121 mAh g−1 and retention of 86.5% after 500 cycles at 1 C.
Aqueous Asymmetric Supercapacitors with Pyrenetetraone‐Derived Pseudocapacitive Polymer‐Functionalized Graphene Cathodes Enabling a 1.9 V Operating Window
Authors: Peng Cheng , Guo Cong , Wang Yu , Li Yafei , Zhang Xiaoyan
Published: December 2023

Pseudocapacitive polymers have garnered significant attention in the realm of supercapacitors due to their versatile molecular design capabilities, cost‐effectiveness, and impressive electrical conductivity. However, limited by the low capacity and short cycle life, the investigation on conducting polymers for potential electrode materials is still insufficient. Herein, a series of pyrenetetraone‐derived polymers with pyrazine units are designed and synthesized. Furthermore, UV–vis spectroscopy demonstrates the different interaction behavior between the polymers and reduced graphene oxide (rGO), which can further indicate the performance difference of the composite electrodes. As a result, the pseudocapacitive polymer/rGO composite electrode (2/1 PPYT/rGO) exhibits a high specific capacitance of 591 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 in a 1 m sulfuric acid electrolyte. The asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) assembled by the 2/1 PPYT/rGO cathode and the annealed Ti3C2Tx anode (2/1 PPYT/rGO//A‐Ti3C2Tx) delivers an excellent energy density of 38.1 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 950 W kg−1. Additionally, both devices demonstrate outstanding stability, retaining over 90% of their capacity after 15 000 charge/discharge cycles. As a result, these carefully engineered organic polymers, with their well‐thought‐out structural designs, showcase exceptional electrochemical performance, positioning them as highly promising candidates for the next generation of high‐performance energy storage materials.
Realization of Self‐Rectifying and Self‐Powered Resistive Random‐Access Memory Memristor Using [001]‐Oriented NaNbO3 Film Deposited on Sr2Nb3O10 Nanosheet at Low Temperatures
Authors: Kim In-Su , Kim Bumjoo , Chae Seok-June , Nahm Sahn
Published: December 2023

[001]‐oriented NaNbO3 films are deposited on Sr2Nb3O10/TiN/SiO2/Si substrates at 300 °C. The Sr2Nb3O10 nanosheets are used as a template to form crystalline NaNbO3 films at low temperature. The NaNbO3 films deposited on one Sr2Nb3O10 monolayer exhibit a bipolar switching curve due to the construction and destruction of oxygen vacancy filaments. Because the Sr2Nb3O10 monolayer does not act as an insulating layer, the film does not exhibit self‐rectifying properties. Self‐rectifying properties are observed in the NaNbO3 memristor, which forms on two Sr2Nb3O10 monolayers that act as tunnel barriers in the memristor. The memristor exhibits extensive rectification and on/off ratios of 48 and 15.7, respectively. Tunneling is the current conduction mechanism of the device in the low‐resistance state, and Schottky emission and tunneling are responsible for the conduction mechanism in the high‐resistance state at low and high voltages, respectively. The piezoelectric nanogenerator produced using the [001]‐oriented NaNbO3 film generates high voltage (1.8 V) and power (3.2 μW). Furthermore, endurance of the resistive random‐access memory and nonlinear transmission characteristics of the biological synapse are accomplished in the NaNbO3 memristor powered by the NaNbO3 nanogenerator. Therefore, the [001]‐oriented crystalline NaNbO3 film formed at 300 °C may be utilized for self‐rectifying and self‐powered artificial synapses.
Structural and functional damage to neuronal nuclei caused by extracellular tau oligomers
Authors: Sun Xuehan , Eastman Guillermo , Shi Yu , Saibaba Subhi , Oliveira Ana K. , Lukens John R. , Norambuena Andrés , Thompson Joseph A. , Purdy Michael D. , Dryden Kelly , Pardo Evelyn , Mandell James W. , Bloom George S.
Published: December 2023

INTRODUCTION

Neuronal nuclei are normally smoothly surfaced. In Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other tauopathies, though, they often develop invaginations. We investigated mechanisms and functional consequences of neuronal nuclear invagination in tauopathies.

METHODS

Nuclear invagination was assayed by immunofluorescence in the brain, and in cultured neurons before and after extracellular tau oligomer (xcTauO) exposure. Nucleocytoplasmic transport was assayed in cultured neurons. Gene expression was investigated using nanoString nCounter technology and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Invaginated nuclei were twice as abundant in human AD as in cognitively normal adults, and were increased in mouse neurodegeneration models. In cultured neurons, nuclear invagination was induced by xcTauOs by an intracellular tau‐dependent mechanism. xcTauOs impaired nucleocytoplasmic transport, increased histone H3 trimethylation at lysine 9, and altered gene expression, especially by increasing tau mRNA.

DISCUSSION

xcTauOs may be a primary cause of nuclear invagination in vivo, and by extension, impair nucleocytoplasmic transport and induce pathogenic gene expression changes.

Highlights

Extracellular tau oligomers (xcTauOs) cause neuronal nuclei to invaginate.

xcTauOs alter nucleocytoplasmic transport, chromatin structure, and gene expression.

The most upregulated gene is MAPT, which encodes tau.

xcTauOs may thus drive a positive feedback loop for production of toxic tau.
Stereoselective Hydrosilylation of 1,2‐Diketones Catalyzed by Chiral Frustrated Lewis Pairs
Authors: Liu Ting , Meng Wei , Feng Xiangqing , Du Haifeng
Published: December 2023

The asymmetric reduction of 1,2‐diketones for the synthesis of optically active 1,2‐diols, especially 1,2‐anti‐diols, remains a formidable challenge. In this paper, we describe the first highly stereoselective hydrosilylation of unsymmetrical vicinal diketones with PhSiH3 by using a chiral frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) catalyst, giving a variety of 1,2‐diaryl‐1,2‐anti‐diols in high yields with excellent d.r. values and up to 97 % ee. The chiral FLP catalyst exhibits the ability to control regio‐, diastereo‐ and enantioselectivites concurrently.
Highly Selective Ammonia Oxidation on BiVO4 Photoanodes Co‐catalyzed by Trace Amounts of Copper Ions
Authors: Wu Lei , Li Qianqian , Dang Kun , Tang Daojian , Chen ChunCheng , Zhang Yuchao , Zhao Jincai
Published: December 2023

High‐efficient photoelectrocatalytic direct ammonia oxidation reaction (AOR) conducted on semiconductor photoanodes remains a substantial challenge. Herein, we develop a strategy of simply introducing ppm levels of Cu ions (0.5–10 mg/L) into NH3 solutions to significantly improve the AOR photocurrent of bare BiVO4 photoanodes from 3.4 to 6.3 mA cm−2 at 1.23 VRHE, being close to the theoretical maximum photocurrent of BiVO4 (7.5 mA cm−2). The surface charge‐separation efficiency has reached 90 % under a low bias of 0.8 VRHE. This AOR exhibits a high Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 93.8 % with the water oxidation reaction (WOR) being greatly suppressed. N2 is the main AOR product with FEs of 71.1 % in aqueous solutions and FEs of 100 % in non‐aqueous solutions. Through mechanistic studies, we find that the formation of Cu−NH3 complexes possesses preferential adsorption on BiVO4 surfaces and efficiently competes with WOR. Meanwhile, the cooperation of BiVO4 surface effect and Cu‐induced coordination effect activates N−H bonds and accelerates the first rate‐limiting proton‐coupled electron transfer for AOR. This simple strategy is further extended to other photoanodes and electrocatalysts.
Effect of supercritical nitrogen content on the weld lines and mechanical properties of microcellular injection molded double gate PP/Al parts
Authors: Li Xi‐jue , Zuo Ze‐mian , Mi Hao‐Yang , Chen You‐fu , Wang Ju‐wei , Gu Lai‐fa , Dong Bin‐bin , Liu Chun‐tai , Shen Chang‐yu
Published: December 2023

Injection molding products made of aluminum flakes and polymer blends exhibit a distinctive esthetic effect. However, during the filling process, the melt flows in different directions converge and collide, resulting in the flop effect of the aluminum flake and consequent weld line formation. Herein, microcellular injection molding (MIM) was employed to fabricate polypropylene/aluminum flakes (PP/Al) composite foamed parts with distinct weld lines using supercritical nitrogen (scN2) as the physical blowing agent. The scN2 content has a significant effect on cell diameter and cell density. When the scN2 content was 0.6%, the weld line width of the foamed part was 13.03 μm, while it was 30.41 μm for the solid counterpart due to the expansion and rupture of cells in the flow front during filling. Moreover, the orientation of Al flakes was mostly along the flow direction for the foamed parts, while it was generally aligned perpendicular to the flow direction for solid parts in the weld line region. In addition, the flexural modulus of foamed parts was increased by 29% compared with the solid parts, although the tensile strength was reduced by 18% due to the alignment of Al flakes and the stress concentration on the cell walls. Therefore, this work provides insight into the improvement of flexural property and the mitigation of weld lines for injection molded composite parts using MIM.
Comprehensive analysis of the circular RNA expression profile and circRNA–miRNA–mRNA network in the goat skin with divergent wool curvature
Authors: Su Yingxiao , Zhao Zhanqiang , Liu Zhanfa , Li Xiaobo , Chen Qian , Pu Yabin , Jiang Lin , He Xiaohong , Ma Yuehui , Zhao Qianjun
Published: December 2023

Wool curvature is one of the most valuable characteristics of Zhongwei goat fur. As the goats grow, the curvature progressively diminishes, which has a substantial impact on the quality and market value of wool. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of noncoding RNA and play vital roles in animal growth and development. However, the expression and function of circRNAs in the wool curvature of Zhongwei goats are unclear. In our study, we conducted circRNA expression profiling of Zhongwei goat skin exhibiting divergent curvature wool phenotypes at two developmental stages using the RNA‐seq. In total, 12,682 circRNAs and 158 differentially expressed circRNAs (DE circRNAs) were identified. KEGG analysis illustrated that host genes of DE circRNAs were significantly enriched in the signaling pathways of Ras, JAK/STAT5, and cAMP, which might affect wool curvature. We further validated five circRNAs using qRT‐PCR, which were consistent with the sequencing results. Functional verification assay demonstrated that circRNA8782 regulated fibroblast proliferation. In addition, we constructed a regulatory competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network and predicted circRNA3173‐miR‐16b‐5p‐IGF1 axes involved in the regulation of wool curvature. Our result will provide the foundation for uncovering the regulatory mechanisms of underlying wool curvature patterns in goats.
Magnetic hydroxyapatite nanobelt‐stem cell hybrid spheroids for remotely patterning bone tissues
Authors: Hao Min , Wang Wenhan , Kumar Anil , Kamaruddin Wan Hairul Anuar , Saidin Syafiqah , Malek Nik Ahmad Nizam Nik , Claverie Jerome , Liu Hong
Published: December 2023

The low survival rate and poor differentiation efficiency of stem cells, as well as the insufficient integration of implanted stem cells, limit the regeneration of bone defects. Here, we have developed magnetic ferroferric oxide‐hydroxyapatite‐polydopamine (Fe3O4‐HAp‐PDA) nanobelts to assemble mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into a three‐dimensional hybrid spheroid for patterning bone tissue. These nanobelts, which are featured by their high‐aspect ratio and contain Fe3O4 nanospheres with a PDA coating, can be manipulated by a magnetic field and foster enhanced cell‐nanobelt interactions. This strategy has been demonstrated to be effective for both bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells, enabling remote manipulation of stem cell spheroids and efficient spheroid fusion, which in turn accelerates osteogenic differentiation. Consequently, this methodology serves as an efficient and general tool for bone tissue printing and can potentially overcome the low survival rate and poor differentiation efficiency of stem cells, as well as mismatched interface fusion issues.
A dynamic framework to align company climate reporting and action with global climate targets
Authors: Christy Anna , Elnahass Marwa , Amezaga Jaime , Browne Anthony , Heidrich Oliver
Published: December 2023

There are global aspirations to reach net zero emissions, which triggered the development of standards, guidance and tools to measure and manage climate action across countries, sectors and companies. However, carbon accounting inaccuracies, ambiguous emissions disclosures and unambitious climate targets are hampering these aspirations. This paper reports on the disparity between high‐level guidance and practical implementation of carbon accounting and reporting at company level. By conducting a systematic literature analysis and focussing on the English Water sector, we utilise case study data from Northumbrian Water Limited (NWL), to identify limitations in the current guidance and frameworks. The results indicate the necessity for enhanced alignment in high‐level guidance, particularly regarding the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and the Science‐Based Target Initiative. It is evident that clarity and consistency from high‐level resources are essential for climate mitigation. This paper shows, depending on the sector and company types, that different benefits are gained from using the available resources. We propose a carbon measurement and management process for the English Water sector (and beyond) to reach net zero targets and make recommendations for decision makers. This helps to understand best practices of carbon accounting and reporting and to make effective investment decisions. Consequently, we advocate for policy interventions to improve the standardisation of carbon accounting models. Harmonising international regulatory frameworks and standards is needed, which will empower organisations to effectively assess, manage and reduce their carbon footprints.
The experiences of reproductive concerns in cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta‐synthesis of qualitative studies
Authors: Dong Ying , Yue Zhenyu , Zhuang Huan , Zhang Chen , Fang Yu , Jiang Guichun
Published: December 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to synthesize qualitative research evidence on cancer survivors' experiences with reproductive concerns (RC).

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of qualitative studies and utilized the meta‐aggregation approach. The database searches were extended up to May 14, 2023, encompassing 12 databases, specifically MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science (Core Collection), AMED, PsycINFO, The Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wan Fang Data, and VIP.

Results

Three overarching themes were synthesized from the analysis of 21 studies that explored cancer patients' awareness of reproductive concerns, their perceptions, needs, and coping styles. These themes encapsulate the multifaceted aspects of cancer patients' reproductive concerns: “Gender differences in fertility concerns among cancer patients: Perspectives from men and women”; “The influence of age: Experiences with fertility issues among cancer patients at different life stages”; “The impact of treatment stages on fertility concerns: The evolution of perception and coping strategies in the course of cancer treatment”.

Conclusion

Our study presents an in‐depth exploration of the reproductive concerns experienced by cancer patients from various perspectives. We found that the internal experiences of reproductive concerns, their perceptions, needs, and coping mechanisms differ based on their roles. This comprehensive understanding of the complex emotions and needs of cancer patients when confronted with fertility issues can guide clinicians in providing more effective medical assistance, psychological counseling, and fertility‐related information services.