bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case of Bilateral Sudden Deafness Caused by Wernicke Encephalopathy
Authors: Hong Yujeong , Kim Hyojung , Lee Dong-Hee
Published: January 2025

Wernicke encephalopathy, also known as thiamine deficiency, is characterized by a triad of symptoms: ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and confusion. However, additional symptoms may manifest depending on the area affected by the lesion. Although multiple cranial neuropathies are possible, sudden onset bilateral hearing loss has been described in rare situations as the first manifestation of Wernicke encephalopathy. Here, we present a case report detailing the clinical experience of a patient diagnosed with Wernicke encephalopathy, whose initial presentation included sudden bilateral deafness. The patient was a 57-year-old man with alcoholism who was successfully diagnosed with Wernicke encephalopathy, and his hearing improved after high-dose intravenous thiamine therapy. Our case study results and a literature review indicate that video findings and suppression head impulse tests can be used to evaluate Wernicke encephalopathy.
Knowledge and Perception of HealthCare Workers on Antibiotic Resistance and Predictors of Antibiotic Prescription in Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwagbo Ambrose Nnaemeka , Oloyede Taofik Ademola , Anyebe Emmanuel Ejembi , Anyebe Emmanuel Edache , Sani Nasiru , David Daniel Aondona , Asheku Akwaras Nndunno , Nzelu Ifeoma Nancy , Woziri Abubakar Ojone , Bello Ruth Nabe
Published: January 2025

Aim: The present study was aimed to assess the knowledge gaps in healthcare professionals on antibiotic resistance and determine the predictors of antibiotic prescription in Benue State, Nigeria
Study Design:  Using a facility-based cross-sectional study,
Place and Duration of the Study: Randomly selected three primary health care facilities, three secondary health care facilities and three Tertiary health care facilities in Benue State Nigeria from January 2023 to December, 2024
Purpose of the Study: The main purpose of this study is to assess the level of knowledge as regards to antibiotic prescription, determine the antibiotic, determines the perception about antibiotic resistance and also determine the factors influencing antibiotics prescription among the multidisciplinary health workers.
Methods: A total of 427 healthcare workers (HCW) were administered pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaires in this multi-stage descriptive cross-sectional study.
Results: The mean age of participants was 37.27±9.41 years, with majority (73.3%) having good knowledge on antibiotic prescription. About 55% of participants had good perception of antibiotic resistance, with 13.7% prescribing metronidazole. Participants agreed that safety (72.8%), severity of disease (86.7%), accessibility of antibiotic by patients (79.6%), standard treatment guidelines (77.8%), effectiveness of antibiotics (86.2%), and antibiotic resistance concerns (88.1%), respectively, influenced their choices of prescription. Physicians had the highest proportion of prescription of antibiotic (98%), and participants with negative perception of antibiotic resistance had the highest proportion (84.8%) of prescription of antibiotic. Furthermore, the logistic regression model was statistically significant (p < 0.0001), with physicians and participants who agreed that accessibility to antibiotic by patients being 2.57 times more likely to prescribe antibiotics.
Conclusion: The present study showed that HCWs in Tertiary facilities have better knowledge on antibiotic prescription and perception of antibiotic resistance.  However, the secondary and primary health care facilities recorded knowledge gap on antibiotic prescription and perception of antibiotic resistance. With the hope of compliance to global best practices, we recommend that healthcare workers in Benue state especially in secondary and primary health care facilities should avoid indiscriminate prescription of antimicrobials, and patients should only consult with trained HCW for drug prescription and dispensing.
Seasonal Incidence of Aphid (Aphis craccivora Koch) on Pea Crop and It’s Correlation with Different Abiotic Factors under Field Condition
Authors: Kumari Remi , Tomar S.P.S. , Sharma M.L. , Lal Bharat , Seervi Sitaram , Mahor Dheerendra , Tomar Neha
Published: January 2025

The present investigation was carried out in randomized block design (RBD) during Rabi 2022-23 and 2023-24 at research farm, College of Agriculture, Gwalior (M.P.). The crop’s pest situation is also greatly influenced by the weather factors. The objective of this investigation was to study the seasonal incidence of aphid (Aphis craccivora Koch) on pea crop and it’s correlation with different abiotic factors in this region. During Rabi 2022-23, the aphid population ranged from 3.80 to 32.10 aphids/10 cm apical twig/plant. Whereas during Rabi 2023-24, the aphid population ranged from 2.90 to 28.70 aphids/10 cm apical twig/plant. The occurrence of aphids was first observed during the 52nd SMW (Standard Meteorological Week) for both years. The population of this pest began to increase and reached its peak during the 6th SMW. However, minimum population was recorded during the 10th SMW in both the years. During Rabi 2022-23, the incidence of aphids was significantly and positively correlated with the maximum and minimum temperature, whereas, a significant and negative correlation was found between evening relative humidity and the aphid population. While, morning relative humidity and rainfall showed a non-significant negative correlation with aphids. During Rabi 2023-24, the incidence of aphids was significantly and positively correlated with the maximum temperature, but the minimum temperature showed a positive non-significant correlation with aphids. Whereas, morning relative humidity was found significant and negatively correlated with population of aphids. However, evening relative humidity and rainfall showed a non-significant negative correlation with the aphid population.
Administration of Exosome-based Treatment for Exogenous Ochronosis Caused by Prolonged Use of Topical Hydroquinone
Authors: Widjaja Danielle Karen , Ruma I Made Winarsa , Widianti I Gusti Ayu , Kwanda Vania
Published: January 2025

Objective: Exogenous ochronosis is a rare but challenging skin condition caused by prolonged misuse of hydroquinone-containing creams, with limited effective treatments. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of exosome-based therapy as a novel therapeutic approach for this condition.
Materials and Methods: A 39-year-old Indonesian woman with stage 2 exogenous ochronosis, characterized by discoloration and skin dullness following eight months of hydroquinone misuse, was treated with plant-derived exosomes administered via intradermal injection and topical serum application.
Results: After 36 days of treatment, the patient showed marked improvements in skin texture, hydration, and a reduction of hyperpigmentation and telangiectasia, with no adverse effects observed.
Conclusion: This case highlights the potential of exosome therapy as an effective and minimally invasive intervention for exogenous ochronosis. The findings highlight the need for further research to validate this approach and reinforce the importance of stricter regulations to prevent dermatological complications from harmful skincare ingredients.
Comparison between Retromandibular Anteroparotid Approach, Retromandibular Transparotid Approach and High Subangulomandibular Approach for Mandibular Subcondylar Fracture Fixation: A Prospective Randomised Study
Authors: Patel Abhinandan , Gowda Girish , Chandel Monica Roy , Bhat Preethi , Rajanna Harshitha
Published: January 2025

Background: Condylar fractures remain a subject of ongoing debate in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The choice of surgical approach depends on various functional and aesthetic considerations. This original research article compares three surgical approachesretromandibular anteroparotid approach, retromandibular transparotid approach and high subangulomandibular approachby evaluating facial nerve injury, scar aesthetics, and sialocele formation.
Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted at the Sanjay Gandhi Institute of Trauma and Orthopedics, Bangalore, involving 33 patients who were divided into three groups of 11 patients each. The outcomes assessed included facial nerve injury, scar aesthetics, and sialocele formation, with follow-up for 3 months. Data analysis was performed using the Chi-square test.
Results: The comparison of facial nerve injury incidence between different time intervals in each group, analyzed using Cochran's Q test, revealed that 9.1% of patients in Group A (retromandibular anteroparotid approach), 36.4% in Group B (retromandibular transparotid approach), and 18.2% in Group C (high subangulomandibular approach) experienced facial nerve injury on Day 1. Group B showed a statistically significant result with a p-value of 0.02. Sialocele formation on Day 1 occurred in 27.3% of Group A, 45.5% of Group B, and none in Group C, with a statistically significant p-value of 0.04. The comparison of mean scar aesthetic scores showed 1.45 ± 0.52 for Group A, 2.36 ± 0.51 for Group B, and 2.45 ± 0.52 for Group C, with a statistically significant result (p = 0.001). Significant differences were found between Group A and Group B (p = 0.002) and Group A and Group C (p = 0.001).
Conclusion: This study indicates that the retromandibular anteroparotid approach (Group A) had the least incidence of facial nerve injury and better scar aesthetics. The high subangulomandibular approach (Group C) showed the least incidence of sialocele formation, though it posed challenges in accessing the fracture site. Therefore, the high subangulomandibular approach is recommended for low subcondylar fractures rather than high subcondylar fractures.
Optimizing Methanol Production Yield through Carbon Dioxide Hydrogenation Process with Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor and Transition from Partial to Total Condenser in Distillation
Authors: Verisna Chindaga Widya , Lissa'adah Munna , Nursatitah Nursatitah , Aulia Zulfa
Published: January 2025

Methanol is a chemical product that is widely applied in the chemical industry. The methanol production process from carbon dioxide and hydrogen uses a hydrogenation process with a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) under controlled thermodynamic and kinetic conditions. The process was modified by replacing the Gibbs reactor with a Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR), adding temperature and pressure regulation, and a compressor. This study aims to increase the product yield obtained from the modification results and mass efficiency. Based on the experimental results, it can be concluded that the modified design is quite effective compared to before modification, because it increases the methanol product yield from 44.54% to 99.78%. Copyright © 2025 by Authors, Published by Universitas Diponegoro and BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
X-Linked Reticulate Pigmentary Disorder
Authors: Li Xing-Yu , Ma Dong-Lai
Published: October 2023

This case report describes a child with generalized reticulate hyperpigmentation and recurrent pneumonia, hypohidrosis, photophobia, and diarrhea.
Newborn Health and Child Mortality Across England
Authors: Odd David , Williams Tom , Stoianova Sylvia , Rossouw Grace , Fleming Peter , Luyt Karen
Published: October 2023

Importance

Although the immediate impact of neonatal illness is well recognized, its wider and longer term outcomes on childhood mortality and the role of specific illnesses across childhood are unclear.

Objective

To investigate how many deaths in childhood are associated with neonatal illness and the underlying conditions of the children who died.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based cohort study of children who died before age 10 years in England between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2021, used data from the National Child Mortality Database. Data analysis was performed from September 2022 to May 2023.

Exposure

Children who received care in a neonatal unit after birth plus those who died in the first day of life, before admission to a neonatal unit, were considered to have likely neonatal illness.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the relative risk (RR) of dying, stratified by likely neonatal illness and specific neonatal conditions. Comparisons were made using the χ2 or likelihood ratio test, as appropriate.

Results

A total of 4829 children were included (median [IQR] age at death, 28 [2-274] days; 2606 boys [54.8%]; 2690 White children [64.0%]). Overall, 3456 children who died (71.6%) had evidence of likely neonatal illness. Children with neonatal illness were more likely to die before their tenth birthday than those without evidence of neonatal illness (RR, 13.82; 95% CI, 13.00-14.71). The estimated population-attributable risk fraction for neonatal illness among all deaths before age 10 years was 66.4% (95% CI, 64.9%-67.9%). Children with preceding neonatal illness who died were more likely to have underlying behavioral or developmental disorders (odds ratio [OR], 3.31; 95% CI, 2.47-4.42), chronic neurological disease (OR, 3.00; 95% CI, 2.51-3.58), and chronic respiratory disease (OR, 3.01; 95% CI, 2.43-3.73) than children without neonatal illness.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, most children who died before age 10 years had some evidence of neonatal illness, and they died of a range of causes, including infections and sudden, unexpected, unexplained death. These findings suggest that improvements to perinatal morbidity, an area with an existing evidence base for improvement, may have important impacts on child health across the next decade.
The Patient Experience of Prior Authorization for Cancer Care
Authors: Chino Fumiko , Baez Alexandra , Elkins Ivy B. , Aviki Emeline M. , Ghazal Lauren V. , Thom Bridgette
Published: October 2023

Importance

Prior authorization (PA) requires clinicians and patients to navigate a complex approval pathway. Resultant delays and denials can be particularly problematic for patients with cancer, who often need urgent treatment or symptom management.

Objective

To investigate the patient perspective of PA for cancer-related care, including perceptions about the process, outcomes (including delays and denials), and patient administrative burden.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional, anonymous survey used a convenience sample of patients with PA experience. Participants were recruited using social media and email lists of US-based cancer advocacy organizations from July 1 to October 6, 2022.

Exposure

Prior authorization for any cancer-related service.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Delays to care, outcome of PA, communication, and changes in anxiety (measured on a scale of 0-100, with 0 indicating no anxiety and higher scores indicating higher levels of anxiety) and trust.

Results

Of 178 respondents (158 women [88%], 151 non-Hispanic White respondents [84%], 164 respondents [92%] <65 years), 112 (63%) reported that their cancer care was approved and given as recommended, and 39 (22%) did not receive recommended care due to delays or denials. Most respondents (123 [69%]) reported a PA-related delay in care; of those with delayed care, 90 (73%) reported a delay of 2 or more weeks. Most respondents (119 [67%]) had to personally become involved in the PA process; 35 (20%) spent 11 or more hours dealing with PA issues. Overall, the PA experience was rated as bad (70 [40%]) or horrible (55 of 174 [32%]); ratings were associated with the length of delay (ρ = 0.36; P < .001) and the time spent on PA (ρ = 0.42; P < .001). Self-reported PA-related anxiety was higher than usual anxiety (mean [SD] score, 74.7 [20.2] vs 37.5 [22.6]; P < .001) and was correlated with delay length (ρ = 0.16; P = .04), time spent on PA (ρ = 0.27; P < .001), and overall PA experience (ρ = 0.34; P < .001). After PA, 159 respondents (89%) trusted their insurance company less, and 148 respondents (83%) trusted the health care system less. Patient involvement in the PA process was associated with increased odds of distrusting their insurance company (β = 6.0; 95% CI, 1.9-19.2) and the health care system (β = 3.3; 95% CI, 1.4-8.1) and of having a negative experience (β = 6.6; 95% CI, 3.1-14.3).

Conclusions and Relevance

This survey-based cross-sectional study of the patient experience with PA highlights an adverse outcome of PA: 22% of patients did not receive the care recommended by their treatment team because of PA. Most respondents experienced a delay in recommended oncology care, and delays were associated with increased anxiety, a negative perception of the PA process, and patient administrative burden.
Characteristics of Recurrent Visions of the Nonphysical World Among Cognitively Unimpaired Elders of an Ojibwe Tribal Nation
Authors: Mantyh William G. , Block Adam D. , Castro Madelyn R. , Hansen Adam , Matheson Matti J. , Strong Corey , Hill Annamarie , Cayci Zuzan , Henderson J. Neil
Published: October 2023

Importance

Visual hallucinations are a core feature of dementia with Lewy bodies and primary psychiatric disease, yet identification of a hallucination vs normal spiritual experience depends on cultural context. Almost no information exists in the medical literature regarding normal spiritual experiences in American Indian participants in the context of a neurocognitive evaluation.

Objective

To assess the characteristics of a normal spiritual experience in an Ojibwe Tribal Nation.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted between August 1, 2021, and August 31, 2022, among an Ojibwe Tribal Nation in northern Minnesota. Participants were evaluated at their tribal nation clinic. Cognitively unimpaired tribal Elders who were enrolled members of the tribal nation and aged 55 years or older were invited to participate via fliers, radio advertisements, and health fair presentations. Thirty-seven tribal Elders volunteered.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Each participant was asked whether they experienced hallucinations or visions of people, animals, or objects that are not part of the physical world. This was an a priori formulated question and part of a comprehensive neurocognitive evaluation consisting of history and physical examination (including cognitive screening with a subspecialty-trained behavioral neurologist); blood tests for metabolic, nutritional, and thyroid conditions; and noncontrast magnetic resonance imaging brain scan. Four patients were excluded from the present analysis due to having mild cognitive impairment or dementia.

Results

Thirty-three cognitively unimpaired tribal Elders (mean [SD] age, 66.0 [7.5] years; 22 women [67%]) were included. Sixteen (48%) answered affirmatively, reporting recurrent visions of the nonphysical world. Generally, these visions were well formed, benevolent in nature, and transient; started in preadolescence; involved spirits or ancestors; and were congruent with cultural and spiritual beliefs of the Ojibwe people. No patients had accompanying dream enactment behavior, dysautonomia, parkinsonism, sleep transition–related hallucinations, or moderate to severe depression to suggest a prodrome of an α-synucleinopathy, hypnopompic or hypnagogic hallucinations, or psychosis.

Conclusions and Relevance

Although based on only 1 Ojibwe Tribal Nation, this study suggests that formed visions of the nonphysical world are common among cognitively healthy Ojibwe individuals and can represent normal spiritual experiences. Clinicians would benefit from careful consideration of cultural or spiritual context to avoid misdiagnosis of neuropsychiatric disease.
Phonologically Conditioned Allomorphy
Authors: Bonet Eulàlia
Published: October 2023

Underlying allomorphy poses a challenge to theories of the morphology–phonology interface when the conditioning factors include phonological information. Three basic types of cases are identified with respect to the nature of allomorph selection: (i) phonologically fully optimizing selection; (ii) phonologically partially optimizing selection; and (iii) phonologically arbitrary selection. The approaches that cover these three cases fall into two groups, ones where the selection is left completely to the morphology, with Vocabulary Insertion (in Distributed Morphology terms), and ones where the selection is left to the phonology (within some version of Optimality Theory), for at least fully optimizing and partially optimizing patterns; argumentation is given in favour of the latter approach. A discussion is also included on when and how cases of alleged underlying allomorphy can be reduced to surface‐only allomorphy and hence be assimilated to the regular phonological alternations of the language. For the cases discussed, it is shown that capturing the differences between the alternants in terms of a single representation that includes floating segments is feasible especially when one of the alternants surfaces with a subset of the segments of the other alternant, not with most instances of suppletion. One of the examples of suppletion is still reanalysed as a case of surface‐only allomorphy with the inclusion of a restricted version of the constraint OCP.
Recursion in Morphology
Authors: Miller Taylor L. , Sande Hannah
Published: October 2023

This chapter considers phenomena that have been called recursive within morphology. These include cyclic and interleaved application of morphology and phonology, nested morphosyntactic structures, the (non‐)reorderability of affixes and apparent prosodic recursion at the (sub‐)word level. The predictions that existing models make about recursive morphological structures are considered and the chapter examines whether those predictions hold across languages. Case studies from a variety of typologically distinct languages are examined, including Malayalam (Dravidian), Adyghe (Northwest Caucasian), Dakota (Siouan), Zezuru Shona and Chichewa (Bantu), Kaqchikel (Mayan) and English. Ultimately, it is found that morphological recursion tends to align with, but is more restricted than, syntactic recursion. Phonological and semantic constraints tend to limit the kinds of morphological recursion seen across languages.
Suppletion
Authors: Hippisley Andrew
Published: October 2023

Suppletion is morphological irregularity in the extreme where stems inhabiting the same paradigm have zero phonological relationship such asgo:wentin English. It is a phenomenon that linguists have had to reckon with as far back as Pāṇini since it is pervasive in language, and primarily affects high‐frequency items. Questions answered here include: How does it arise in a language? What are its origins? What counts as suppletion? Is there ‘better’ or ‘worse’ suppletion? Are there tendencies that can be observed when comparing suppletion across languages? What features arenormallyat play? And what are the implications of suppletion for the place of paradigms in language description? This entry looks at the origins of the arrival of the phonologically distinct stem in a lexeme's set of forms, and the coalescence of attributes characterizing suppletion cases. A distinction is drawn betweentypicalandcanonicalsuppletion when a canonical lens is held up to suppletion phenomena. The discussion brings to the foreground the centrality of the paradigm for a robust treatment of suppletion.
Amyloid detection and typing yield of skin biopsy in systemic amyloidosis and polyneuropathy
Authors: Pinton Sandra , Vacchi Elena , Chiaro Giacomo , Raimondi Andrea , Tzankov Alexandar , Gerber Bernhard , Gobbi Claudio , Kaelin‐Lang Alain , Melli Giorgia
Published: October 2023

Objective

Disease‐modifying therapies are available for amyloidosis but are ineffective if end‐organ damage is severe. As small fiber neuropathy is an early and common feature of amyloidosis, we assessed detection and typing yield of skin biopsy for amyloid in patients with confirmed systemic amyloidosis and neuropathic symptoms.

Methods

In this case–control study, patients with transthyretin and light chain amyloidosis (ATTRv, ATTRwt, and AL) were consecutively recruited. They were sex and age‐matched to three control groups (1) non‐neuropathic controls (NNC), (2) monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), and (3) other neuropathic disease controls (ONC). Patients underwent a double 3 mm skin biopsy in proximal and distal leg. Amyloid index and burden, protein typing by immuno‐electron microscopy, intraepidermal nerve fiber density, electroneuromyography, and clinical characteristics were analyzed.

Results

We studied 15 subjects with confirmed systemic amyloidosis, 20 NNC, 18 MGUS, and 20 ONC. Amyloid was detected in 100% of patients with amyloidosis (87% in ankle and 73% in thigh). It was not detected in any of the control groups. A small fiber neuropathy was encountered in 100% of amyloidosis patients, in 80% of MGUS, and in 78% of ONC. Amyloid burden was higher in ATTRv, followed by AL and ATTRwt. The ultrastructural examination allowed the identification of the precursor protein by immunotyping in most of the cases.

Interpretation

Skin biopsy is a minimally invasive test with optimal sensitivity for amyloid. It allows amyloid typing by electron microscope to identify the precursor protein. The diagnostic work up of systemic amyloidosis should include a skin biopsy.
Anchored Cell Sheet Engineering: A Novel Scaffold‐Free Platform for in vitro Modeling
Authors: Shahin‐Shamsabadi Alireza , Cappuccitti John
Published: October 2023

Biofabricated in vitro models hold unrealized potential in accelerating drug discovery and reducing new drug costs, but current models are overly simplified and lack physiological relevance. Certain platforms capable of mimicking in vivo conditions face hurdles such as complexity, high costs, and non‐standardized applications. Existing cell sheet engineering methodologies, despite being physiologically relevant, have technical limitations like creating suitable 3D forms with proper anchorage. An innovative platform is introduced here, designed for in vitro modeling, which capitalizes on 2D culture systems and scaffold‐free cell sheets to create self‐assembling 3D tissue constructs. It provides precise control over cellular behavior, especially ECM production and remodeling. Scaffold‐free muscle fibers and lung epithelial cell cultures served as examples. This platform can fuse various scaffold‐free models to construct assembloids mimicking organ structures and functions. Different tissues can be linked via a fluidic system for body‐level simulations. Moreover, ECM‐rich constructs from cell sheets can create organ‐level ECM scaffolds, and the resulting cell sheet‐derived ECM (CSdECM) can be solubilized to facilitate 2D cellular behavior. This versatile platform, compatible with other cell sheet engineering techniques, is set to revolutionize in vitro modeling.
Rational Engineering of a Multifunctional DNA Assembly for Enhanced Antibacterial Efficacy and Accelerated Wound Healing
Authors: Yu Shanshan , Wang Jing , Liang Meijuan , Shang Jinhua , Chen Yingying , Liu Xiaoqing , Song Dengpeng , Wang Fuan
Published: October 2023

DNA‐based assemblies hold immense prospects for antibacterial application, yet are constrained by their poor specificity and deficient antibacterial delivery. Herein, the fabrication of a versatile rolling circle amplification (RCA)‐sustained DNA assembly is reported, encoding simultaneously with multivalent aptamers and tandem antibacterial agents, for target‐specific and efficient antibacterial application. In the compact RCA‐sustained antibacterial platform, the facilely organized multivalent aptamers guarantee the target bacteria‐specific delivery of sufficient antibacterial agents which is assembled through DNA‐stabilizing silver nanostructures. It is shown that the biocompatible DNA system could enhance bacteria elimination and simultaneously facilitate wound healing in vivo. By virtue of the programmable RCA assembly, the present RCA‐sustained system provides a highly modular and scalable approach to design versatile multifunctional therapeutic systems.
An Industrially Applicable Passivation Strategy for Significantly Improving Cyclability of Zinc Metal Anodes in Aqueous Batteries
Authors: Wu Peng , Xu Luyu , Xiao Xuemei , Ye Xiaoman , Meng Yuezhong , Liu Sheng
Published: October 2023

The cycling instability of metallic Zn anodes hinders the practicability of aqueous Zn‐ion batteries, though aqueous Zn‐ion batteries may be the most credible alternative technology for future electrochemical energy storage applications. Commercially available trivalent chromium conversion films (TCCF) are successfully employed as robust artificial interphases on Zn metal anodes (ZMAs). Fabricated through a simple immersion method, the TCCF‐protected Zn (TCCF@Zn) electrode enables a superlow nucleation overpotential for Zn plating of 6.9 mV under 1 mA cm−2, outstanding Coulombic efficiency of 99.7% at 3 mA cm−2 for 1600 cycles in Zn||Cu asymmetric cells and superior cyclability in symmetric Zn||Zn batteries at 0.2, 2, and 5 mA cm−2 for 2500 h and 10 mA cm−2 for 1200 h. More importantly, the TCCF@Zn||V2O5 full cell exhibits a specific capacity of 118.5 mAh g−1 with a retention of 53.4% at 3 A g−1 for 3000 cycles, which is considerably larger than that of the pristine Zn||V2O5 full cell (59.7 mAh g−1 with a retention of 25.7%). This study demonstrates a highly efficient and low‐cost surface modification strategy derived from an industrially applicable trivalent chromium passivation technique aimed at obtaining dendrite‐free ZMAs with high reversibility for practical Zn batteries in the near future.
Inhibiting Endothelial Cell‐Mediated T Lymphocyte Apoptosis with Integrin‐Targeting Peptide‐Drug Conjugate Filaments for Chemoimmunotherapy of Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Cai Ying , Zhu Binyu , Shan Xiaoting , Zhou Lingli , Sun Xujie , Xia Anqi , Wu Binhao , Yu Yang , Zhu Helen He , Zhang Pengcheng , Li Yaping
Published: October 2023

Tumor‐associated endothelial cells (TECs) limit antitumor immunity via inducing apoptosis of infiltrating T lymphocytes through a Fas ligand (FasL) mediated mechanism. Herein, this work creates a peptide‐drug conjugate (PDC) by linking 7‐ethyl‐10‐hydroxycamptothecin (SN38) to hydrophilic segments with either RGDR or HKD motif at their C‐terminus through a glutathione‐responsive linker. The PDCs spontaneously assemble into filaments in aqueous solution. The PDC filaments containing 1% of SN38‐RGDR (SN38‐HKD/RGDR) effectively target triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells and TECs with upregulated expression of integrin, and induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) of tumor cells and FasL downregulation of TECs. SN38‐HKD/RGDR increases infiltration, activity, and viability of CD8+ T cells, and thus inhibits the growth of primary tumors and pulmonary metastasis. This study highlights the synergistic modulation of cancerous cells and TECs with integrin‐targeting PDC filaments as a promising strategy for TNBC chemoimmunotherapy.
Antibacterial and Angiogenic (2A) Bio‐Heterojunctions Facilitate Infectious Ischemic Wound Regeneration via an Endogenous–Exogenous Bistimulatory Strategy
Authors: Li Bin , Yang Weizhong , Shu Rui , Yang Hang , Yang Fan , Dai Wenyu , Chen Wanxi , Chan Yau Kei , Bai Ding , Deng Yi
Published: October 2023

In infectious ischemic wounds, a lack of blood perfusion significantly worsens microbe‐associated infection symptoms and frequently complicates healing. To overcome this daunting issue, antibacterial and angiogenic (2A) bio‐heterojunctions (bio‐HJs) consisting of CuS/MXene heterojunctions and a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐mimicking peptide (VMP) are devised and developed to accelerate infectious cutaneous regeneration by boosting angiogenesis via an endogenous–exogenous bistimulatory (EEB) strategy. Assisted by near‐infrared irradiation, the bio‐HJ platform exhibits versatile synergistic photothermal, photodynamic, and chemodynamic effects for robust antibacterial efficacy. In addition, copper ions liberated from 2A bio‐HJs elevate VEGF secretion from fibroblasts, which provokes VEGF receptors (VEGFR) activation through an endogenous pathway, whereas VMP itself promotes an exogenous pathway to facilitate endothelial cell multiplication and tube formation by directly activating the VEGFR signaling pathway. Moreover, employing an in vivo model of infectious ischemic wounds, it is confirmed that the EEB strategy can considerably boost cutaneous regeneration through pathogen elimination, angiogenesis promotion, and collagen deposition. As envisaged, this work leads to the development of a powerful 2A bio‐HJ platform that can serve as an effective remedy for bacterial invasion‐induced ischemic wounds through the EEB strategy.
Challenges and Advances in Rechargeable Batteries for Extreme‐Condition Applications
Authors: Wu Jialing , Wu Yunling , Wang Liguang , Ye Hualin , Lu Jun , Li Yanguang
Published: October 2023

Rechargeable batteries are widely used as power sources for portable electronics, electric vehicles and smart grids. Their practical performances are, however, largely undermined under extreme conditions, such as in high‐altitude drones, ocean exploration and polar expedition. These extreme environmental conditions not only bring new challenges for batteries but also incur unique battery failure mechanisms. To fill in the gap, it is of great importance to understand the battery failure mechanisms under different extreme conditions and figure out the key parameters that limit battery performances. In this review, the authors start by investigating the key challenges from the viewpoints of ionic/charge transfer, material/interface evolution and electrolyte degradation under different extreme conditions. This is followed by different engineering approaches through electrode materials design, electrolyte modification and battery component optimization to enhance practical battery performances. Finally, a short perspective is provided about the future development of rechargeable batteries under extreme conditions.
Optical Helicity and Polarization Dependent NIR Negative Photocurrent in the 2D Magnetic Semiconductor CrI3
Authors: Chen Jiamin , Cheng Xing , Cheng Zhixuan , Wang Ziruo , Li Minglai , Jia Xionghui , Ran Yuqia , Li Yanping , Dai Lun
Published: October 2023

Two‐dimensional magnetic semiconductors provide a fascinating platform for studying magneto‐optoelectronic properties at the atomically thin limit and have potential in developing novel devices. In this paper, the superior negative photoconductivity (NPC) characteristics of graphene‐CrI3‐graphene van der Waals heterostructure in light detection, such as a broader detection range (650–1250 nm) and faster response time (<0.32 ms), as well as light helicity and polarization sensitivity are reported. Under near‐infrared (NIR) light illumination, the NPC‐related photoresponsivity R and specific detectivity D* are 1.18 A W−1 and 1.26 × 109 Jones, respectively. Under magnetic field conditions, the NPC and positive photoconductivity (PPC) show opposite optical helicity dependence. The photoresponsivity helicity of the NPC‐dominated photocurrent can reach 16.01%. Besides, NPC and PPC show obvious and similar linear polarization dependence, independent of magnetic fields. It is demonstrated that NPC is superior to PPC in some aspects, such as fast detection of red and NIR lights as well as their helicity and polarization, especially in the NIR region. This work explores many unique phenomena of NPC, further revealing the interplay between magnetic and optoelectronic properties in CrI3, and paves the way for expanding traditional photoelectric detection and optical communication with higher data transmission rates.
Sunlight Driven Reversible and Tunable Plasmon Resonance in 2D Amorphous Molybdenum Oxide
Authors: Kong Weiqian , Liu Wei , Zheng Xiaoli , Xu Qun
Published: October 2023

Two‐dimensional molybdenum oxide (2D MoO3), as a non‐noble metal semiconductor material, is of particular significance for exploring the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). However, the high excitation energy and the irreversible LSPR performance significantly restrict its practical application. To resolve these challenges, the hydrogen intercalated 2D amorphous MoO3 is investigated, and it can be observed that tunable plasmon resonances in the visible and near‐infrared regions occur. More importantly, the LSPR effect can be triggered by visible light and monochromatic light. For the first time, it is found out that the hydrogen intercalated 2D amorphous MoO3 presents a light‐modulated reversible LSPR effect, and its color can transfer from dark blue under illumination to transparent in light‐off. Additionally, solar energy can be effectively stored in bulk‐amorphous MoO3 materials. Therefore, these findings may provide a new platform to utilize sun power.
Undulating Seal Whiskers Evolved Optimal Wavelength‐to‐Diameter Ratio for Efficient Reduction in Vortex‐Induced Vibrations
Authors: Kamat Amar M. , Zheng Xingwen , Bos Julian , Cao Ming , Triantafyllou Michael S. , Kottapalli Ajay Giri Prakash
Published: October 2023

Seals are well‐known for their remarkable hydrodynamic trail‐following capabilities made possible by undulating flow‐sensing whiskers that enable the seals to detect fish swimming as far as 180 m away. In this work, the form‐function relationship in the undulating whiskers of two different phocid seal species, viz. harbor and gray seals, is studied. The geometry and material properties of excised harbor and grey seal whiskers are systematically characterized using blue light 3D scanning, optical and scanning electron microscopy, and nanoindentation. The effect of the undulating geometry on the whiskers’ vibration in uniform water flow is studied using both experimental (piezoelectric MEMS and 3D‐printed piezoresistive sensors developed in‐house) and numerical (finite element method) techniques. The results indicate that the dimensionless ratio of undulation wavelength to mean whisker diameter (λ/Dm) in phocid seals may have evolved to be in the optimal range of 4.4–4.6, enabling an order‐of‐magnitude reduction in vortex‐induced vibrations (compared to a similarly‐shaped circular cylinder) and, consequently, an enhanced flow sensing capability with minimal self‐induced noise. The results highlight the importance of the dimensionless λ/Dm ratio in the biomimetic design of seal whisker‐inspired vibration‐resistant structures, such as marine risers and wake detection sensors for submarines.
High‐Efficiency Single‐Droplet Energy Harvester for Self‐Sustainable Environmental Intelligent Networks
Authors: Wang Hai Lu , Zhang Bojian , Chen Tianyu , Mao Weining , Wang Yifan
Published: October 2023

Our community is still far away from achieving self‐sustainable ambient intelligence, since it calls for rational energy layouts to satisfy the ubiquitous power demands from diverse terminal products. Harnessing energy directly from the surroundings thus provides ideal solutions. The majority of existing environmental harvesters rely on sophisticated procedures and expensive or toxic materials; while others attempt to streamline the complexity at the cost of compromising performance. This entails transducers that exhibit superb outputs and also employ cost‐effective, even recycled materials and straightforward protocols to render ubiquitous deployments. Here, a high‐efficiency droplet energy nanogenerator (DENG) is devised to satisfy all the requirements. The DENG is fabricated by directly coating a composite layer on a recycled digital video disk surface. It achieves superb electricity generation from one droplet, with an output voltage of >190 V at an instantaneous power density of 65 W m−2, and an energy conversion efficiency of 3.60%. Diverse demonstrations confirm the applicability of the DENG in environmental networks, encompassing self‐sustainable “on plants” sensing systems, smart building windows, and remote environmental monitoring platforms. In light of these superiorities, it is believed that the DENG may open up new alternative routes for future energy strategies.
Rational design of water‐soluble, homotypic keratins self‐assembly with enhanced bioactivities
Authors: Chen Jie , Wang Yumei , Deng Jia , Qing Rui , Yang Yaxi , Chen Xiaoliang , Gao Zibin , Wang Bochu , Hao Shilei
Published: October 2023

Recombinant keratins possess strong hemostatic and wound healing properties but suffer from poor water solubility that restricts their bioactivities in biomedical applications. Herein, we report the rational design and synthesis of water‐soluble keratins using a simple methodology named the QTY code. In vitro biophysical analyses and molecular dynamic simulation demonstrated a 200‐fold increase in the water solubility of QTY variant keratins without apparent structural changes compared to native proteins. Homotypic self‐assembly was observed for the first time in recombinant keratins in an aqueous environment, without urea and after QTY modification. Cell and animal experiments showed the in situ gel‐forming capability of QTY variant keratins with superior hemostatic and wound healing activities at the wound sites compared to native recombinant keratins. Our work not only presented a simple and feasible pathway to produce large amounts of water‐soluble keratins using QTY modification but also validated the enhanced self‐assembly, hemostasis, and wound healing properties of these novel keratin species that may open up new venues for biomedical applications.
Characterization of seizures and EEG findings in creatine transporter deficiency due to SLC6A8 mutation
Authors: Abdennadher Myriam , Inati Sara K. , Rahhal Samar , Khan Omar , Bartolini Luca , Thurm Audrey , Theodore William , Miller Judith S. , Porter Forbes D. , Bianconi Simona
Published: October 2023

Seizures occur in up to 59% of boys with creatine transporter deficiency (CTD). While seizure phenotypes have been previously described, electroencephalogram (EEG) findings have only been reported in several case reports. In this prospective observational study, we report seizure characteristics and EEG findings in combination with neurobehavioral and SLC6A8 pathogenic variants in twenty males with CTD. Eighteen study participants (SP) underwent video‐EEG, and seven had follow‐up EEG recordings. Seizures typically occurred by age of 2 years. Thirteen (65%) had non‐febrile seizures, requiring anti‐seizure medications in nine. Four had febrile seizures. Seizures were bilateral tonic–clonic in 7 SP and focal impaired awareness in 5 SP; often responding to 1 to 2 antiseizure medications. EEG showed slowing in 5 SP, beta activity in 6 SP, and focal/multifocal, and/or generalized epileptiform activity in 9 SP. Follow‐up EEGs in 7 SP showed emergence of epileptiform activity in 1 SP, and increased activity in 2 SP. In conclusion, seizures were frequent in our cohort but tended to respond to antiseizure medications. Longitudinal follow up provided further insight into emergence of seizures and EEG abnormalities soliciting future studies with long term follow up. Biomarkers of epileptogenicity in CTD are needed to predict seizures in this population.
Advances in cyclic ester ring‐opening polymerization using heterogeneous catalysts
Authors: Naz Farah , Abdur Rahaman M. , Mumtaz Fatima , Elkadi Mirella , Verpoort Francis
Published: October 2023

Aliphatic polyesters' propensity to be biocompatible and biodegradable, as well as their prospective applications in the medical and agricultural industries, has prompted much research into their synthesis. As ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) technology has advanced rapidly, the invention of discrete, thoroughly characterized heterogeneous catalysts, which are potent polymerization initiators for ROP, has received much attention during the last decade. Numerous polyester microstructures have been produced because of recent developments in the catalyst design of new heterogeneous catalysts and applied in initiating the ROP of cyclic esters. This study reviewed the ROP of cyclic ester catalysts composed of a heterogenous catalyst such as metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and supported catalyst. MOFs are crystalline porous materials with tunable frameworks that make them potential mediums for polymerization. The MOF structure's precise design is important to control polymerizations because it provides control over both primary and higher‐order structures. Additionally, the stability of the heterogeneous catalyst is also discussed. Finally, the conclusion to the previous study and a stance for future prospects is given. This article intends to provide valuable information for building a heterogeneous catalyst for the ROP of cyclic esters with enhanced activity.
Improving the transient thermal response and ablation properties of epoxy‐modified silicone rubber composites by adding fluxing agent
Authors: Zhang Hao , Zhou Shengtai , Liang Mei , Zou Huawei
Published: October 2023

In this work, transient thermal response and ablation behavior of liquid silicone rubber composites containing fluxing/ceramic forming fillers were investigated under different heat flows using an oxyacetylene flame. The results indicated that the introduction of zinc borate (ZB) and aluminum oxide (Al2O3) effectively reduced the temperature at various depths of the samples, and they improved the thermal insulation properties and lowered pyrolysis rates. The above finding was attributed to the heat absorption arising from water release and melt filling as well as the vitrified reaction of solid melt due to the decomposition of ZB. Besides, the melting and exfoliation of Al2O3 and the formation of aluminum silicate (Al2SiO5) caused heat absorption effect. Additionally, the mass ablation rates and line ablation rates increased with rising heat flows coupling with a decrease of compressive strength of the char layers. In a nutshell, the effect of adding ZB/Al2O3 on the thermal insulation behavior of epoxy‐modified vinyl silicone rubber (EMVSR) composites under different heat flows was elucidtaed. This work served as a reference for the design and preparation of flexible ablative materials for thermal protection applications.