bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Race and Ethnicity–Adjusted Age Recommendation for Initiating Breast Cancer Screening
Authors: Chen Tianhui , Kharazmi Elham , Fallah Mahdi
Published: April 2023

Importance

Breast cancer (BC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, and there is a substantial disparity in BC mortality by race, especially for early-onset BC in Black women. Many guidelines recommend starting BC screening from age 50 years; however, the current one-size-fits-all policy to start screening all women from a certain age may not be fair, equitable, or optimal.

Objective

To provide race and ethnicity–adapted starting ages of BC screening based on data on current racial and ethnic disparities in BC mortality.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This nationwide population-based cross-sectional study was conducted using data on BC mortality in female patients in the US who died of BC in 2011 to 2020.

Exposures

Proxy-reported race and ethnicity information was used. The risk-adapted starting age of BC screening by race and ethnicity was measured based on 10-year cumulative risk of BC-specific death. Age-specific 10-year cumulative risk was calculated based on age group–specific mortality data without modeling or adjustment.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Disease-specific mortality due to invasive BC in female patients.

Results

There were BC-specific deaths among 415 277 female patients (1880 American Indian or Alaska Native [0.5%], 12 086 Asian or Pacific Islander [2.9%], 62 695 Black [15.1%], 28 747 Hispanic [6.9%], and 309 869 White [74.6%]; 115 214 patients died before age 60 years [27.7%]) of any age in the US in 2011 to 2020. BC mortality per 100 000 person-years for ages 40 to 49 years was 27 deaths in Black females, 15 deaths in White females, and 11 deaths in American Indian or Alaska Native, Hispanic, and Asian or Pacific Islander females. When BC screening was recommended to start at age 50 years for all females with a 10-year cumulative risk of BC death of 0.329%, Black females reached this risk threshold level 8 years earlier, at age 42 years, whereas White females reached it at age 51 years, American Indian or Alaska Native and Hispanic females at age 57 years, and Asian or Pacific Islander females 11 years later, at age 61 years. Race and ethnicity–adapted starting ages for Black females were 6 years earlier for mass screening at age 40 years and 7 years earlier for mass screening at age 45 years.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study provides evidence-based race-adapted starting ages for BC screening. These findings suggest that health policy makers may consider a risk-adapted approach to BC screening in which individuals who are at high risk are screened earlier to address mortality due to early-onset BC before the recommended age of mass screening.
High‐Power and Ultrastable Aqueous Calcium‐Ion Batteries Enabled by Small Organic Molecular Crystal Anodes
Authors: Li Renjie , Yu Jingya , Chen Feiyang , Su Yaqiong , Chan Kang Cheung , Xu Zheng‐Long
Published: April 2023

Calcium ion batteries (CIBs) are pursued as potentially low‐cost and safe alternatives to current Li‐ion batteries due to the high abundance of calcium element. However, the large and divalent nature of Ca2+ leads to strong interaction with intercalation hosts, sluggish ion diffusion kinetics and low power output. Herein, a small molecular organic anode is reported, tetracarboxylic diimide (PTCDI), involving carbonyl enolization (CO↔CO−) in aqueous electrolytes, which bypasses the diffusion difficulties in intercalation‐type electrodes and avoid capacity sacrifice for polymer organic electrodes, thus manifesting rapid and high Ca storage capacities. In an aqueous Ca‐ion cell, the PTCDI presents a reversible capacity of 112 mAh g−1, a high‐capacity retention of 80% after 1000 cycles and a high‐power capability at 5 A g−1, which rival the state‐of‐the‐art anode materials in CIBs. Experiments and simulations reveal that Ca ions are diffusing along the a axis tunnel to enolize carbonyl groups without being entrapped in the aromatic carbon layers. The feasibility of PTCDI anodes in practical CIBs is demonstrated by coupling with cost‐effective Prussian blue analogous cathodes and CaCl2 aqueous electrolyte. The appreciable Ca storage performance of small molecular crystals will spur the development of green organic CIBs.
High‐Efficiency Narrowband Multi‐Resonance Emitter Fusing Indolocarbazole Donors for BT. 2020 Red Electroluminescence and Ultralong Operation Lifetime
Authors: Fan Tianjiao , Du MingXu , Jia Xiaoqin , Wang Lu , Yin Zheng , Shu Yilin , Zhang Yuewei , Wei Jinbei , Zhang Dongdong , Duan Lian
Published: April 2023

Polycyclic heteroaromatics with multi‐resonance (MR) characteristics are attractive materials for narrowband emitters in wide‐color‐gamut organic light‐emitting diodes. However, MR emitters with pure‐red colors are still rare and usually exhibit problematic spectral broadening when redshifting emission. Here, a narrowband pure‐red MR emitter is reported by fusing indolocarbazole segments into a boron/oxygen‐embedded skeleton, realizing BT.2020 red electroluminescence for the first time together with a high efficiency and an ultralong lifetime. The rigid indolocarbazole segment possesses a strong electron‐donating ability due to its para‐positioned nitrogen–π–nitrogen backbone and also enlarges the π‐extension of the MR skeleton to suppress structural displacement during radiation, achieving concurrently redshifted and narrowed emission spectrum. An emission maximum at 637 nm with a full width at half‐maxima of merely 32 nm (0.097 eV) is recorded in toluene. The corresponding device simultaneously exhibits CIE coordinates of (0.708, 0.292) precisely matching the BT.2020 red point, a high external quantum efficiency of 34.4% with low roll‐off and an ultralong LT95 (time to 95% of the initial luminance) of >10 000 h at 1000 cd m−2. These performance characteristics are superior even to those of state‐of‐the‐art perovskite and quantum‐dot‐based devices for this specific color, paving the way toward practical applications.
Self‐Guided Growth of Electronically Decoupled C60 on Graphene on Rh(110)
Authors: Guo Haojie , Martínez‐Galera Antonio J. , Gómez‐Rodríguez José M.
Published: April 2023

The authors report on the behavior of C60 molecules adsorbed on graphene (Gr) monolayers grown on Rh(110), studied by means of scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy under ultra‐high vacuum conditions. Fullerene molecules form a well‐ordered close packed hexagonal layout with an intermolecular distance of ≈1 nm. As demonstrated from the experimental data, the molecular packing direction of C60 is locally close to being aligned with the quasi‐1D moiré patterns formed by graphene on the metal support. Moreover, for certain orientations of graphene on Rh(110), the underlying moiré pattern appears superimposed on the molecular assembly. However, the analysis of the highest occupied molecular orbital and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital structures and the differential conductance curves of C60 on Gr/Rh(110) suggest a weak molecule–substrate interaction, similar to other 2D material/metal interfaces. All these observations can imply that the moiré structures of Gr/Rh(110) play a central role in the arrangement of C60, but without modifying its electronic properties, which makes this Gr/Rh(110) system a singular platform for C60 adsorption. Complementarily, the structural properties of multilayer growth of C60 on Gr/Rh(110) are also investigated.
Sustainable and Practical Superhydrophobic Surfaces via Mechanochemical Grafting
Authors: Celik Nusret , Akay Serdar , Sahin Furkan , Sezer Gulay , Dagasan Bulucu Esen , Ruzi Mahmut , Butt Hans‐Jürgen , Onses Mustafa Serdar
Published: April 2023

The broad adoption of superhydrophobic surfaces in practical applications is hindered by limitations of existing methods in terms of excessive usage of solvents, the need for tedious and lengthy chemical processes, insufficient biocompatibility, and the high cost of materials. Herein, a mechanochemical approach for practical and solvent‐free manufacturing of superhydrophobic surfaces is reported. This approach enables solvent‐free and ultra‐rapid preparation of superhydrophobic surfaces in a single‐step without the need for any washing, separation, and drying steps. The hydrolytic rupture of siloxane bonds and generation of free radicals induced by mechanochemical pathways play a key role in covalent grafting of silicone to the surface of nanoparticles that leads to superhydrophobic surfaces with a water contact angle of >165° and a sliding angle of <2°. The direct use of industrially available and non‐functional silicone materials together with demonstrated applicability to inorganic nanoparticles of varied composition greatly contribute to the scalability of the presented approach. The resulting superhydrophobic surfaces are highly biocompatible as demonstrated by fibroblast cells using two different assays. Monolith materials fabricated from silicone‐grafted nanoparticles exhibit bulk and durable superhydrophobicity. The presented approach offers tremendous potential with sustainability, scalability, cost‐effectiveness, simplicity, biocompatibility, and universality.
The Role of Superadsorbent Polymers on Covalent Organic Frameworks‐Based Solid Electrolytes: Investigation of the Ionic Conductivity and Relaxation
Authors: Gullace Sara , Cusin Luca , Richard Fanny , Israfilov Nizami , Ciesielski Artur , Samorì Paolo
Published: April 2023

The scarcity of fossil fuels calls for immediate action toward the development of clean and renewable energy resources. In this context, proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are gaining ever‐increasing attention as clean technology. Although covalent organic frameworks (COFs) do not usually exhibit high intrinsic proton conductivity (σ), they have been recently proposed as solid polymer electrolytes in PEMFCs, thanks to their high crystallinity and stability to acids and bases. Here, a simple strategy is presented to improve the performance of poor COF‐based proton conductors through addition of sodium polyacrylate (PANa) superadsorbent polymer. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy investigations after activation at high temperature and relative humidity (RH) provide insights into the role of PANa, whose presence is key to preserve high σ at low RH. The humidity‐dependent X‐ray diffraction study reveals a strengthening of the stacking interaction along the COF (100) plane direction with increasing humidity, through the formation of H‐bonding, thus promoting proton hopping. The study of the dielectric properties as a function of PANa content enables to determine a Debye relaxation regime for the COF/PANa blend with a maximum relaxation frequency of 1513 and 6606 Hz for the pristine COF and the COF/PANa blend, respectively, at their maximum operating temperatures.
Carbon Nanodots Memristor: An Emerging Candidate toward Artificial Biosynapse and Human Sensory Perception System
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Chen Mohan , Pan Yelong , Li Yang , Wang Kuaibing , Yuan Junwei , Sun Yanqiu , Zhang Qichun
Published: April 2023

In the era of big data and artificial intelligence (AI), advanced data storage and processing technologies are in urgent demand. The innovative neuromorphic algorithm and hardware based on memristor devices hold a promise to break the von Neumann bottleneck. In recent years, carbon nanodots (CDs) have emerged as a new class of nano‐carbon materials, which have attracted widespread attention in the applications of chemical sensors, bioimaging, and memristors. The focus of this review is to summarize the main advances of CDs‐based memristors, and their state‐of‐the‐art applications in artificial synapses, neuromorphic computing, and human sensory perception systems. The first step is to systematically introduce the synthetic methods of CDs and their derivatives, providing instructive guidance to prepare high‐quality CDs with desired properties. Then, the structure–property relationship and resistive switching mechanism of CDs‐based memristors are discussed in depth. The current challenges and prospects of memristor‐based artificial synapses and neuromorphic computing are also presented. Moreover, this review outlines some promising application scenarios of CDs‐based memristors, including neuromorphic sensors and vision, low‐energy quantum computation, and human–machine collaboration.
Fluorinated Vilsmeier Reagent: TFEDMA‐mediated Synthesis of Aryl‐cyanides and Aryl‐amides via the Activation of Oximes†
Authors: Yadav Arvind K. , Reddy Narra Srikanth , Zulfaqar Bacho Muhamad , Sumii Yuji , Shibata Norio
Published: April 2023

A convenient method for the activation of aryl‐oximes is reported using 1,1,2,2‐tetrafluoro‐N,N‐dimethylethylamine (TFEDMA) as a scalable and efficient reagent. Aryl‐aldoximes led to aryl‐cyanides while aryl‐ketoximes provided aryl‐amides in moderate to excellent yields. The iminium form of TFEDMA acted as a fluorinated version of the well‐known Vilsmeier reagent. Aryl cyanides and aryl amides are valuable synthetic units in natural products and drug candidates. The cyano group is also useful in polymer chemistry for the preparation of photovoltaic cells and LEDs.
Mapping bone microstructure trace element composition: Sr, Ba, Cu, and Pb in an early modern Danish skeleton
Authors: Milner George R. , Milner Hugh R. , Boldsen Jesper L. , Rasmussen Kaare L.
Published: April 2023

Objectives

A Geographical Information System (GIS) approach enhances the acquisition, management, and analysis of trace element data from cortical bone. A high‐resolution spatial dimension expands the research potential of Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) data from cortical bone cross‐sections. The chemical characterization of hundreds of osteons, notably sequences of superimposed osteons, permits more exacting studies of individual life histories than is possible with analyses of bulk bone samples.

Methods

A GIS procedure was used to estimate Sr, Ba, Pb, and Cu concentrations, originally generated through LA‐ICP‐MS, for bone microstructural features, notably fragmentary and intact osteons, in a human femoral cross‐section. The skeleton is from Ribe, Denmark, and dates to the early modern period.

Results

Postmortem chemical alteration was limited to the bone's outer and inner margins. Two dietary indicators, Sr and Ba, and two socioeconomic indicators, Pb and Cu, measured for individual osteons were correlated with one another. Osteon sequences indicate concentrations of all four elements increased late in life for this individual.

Conclusions

The application of GIS procedures expedites fine‐grained analyses of variation in the distribution of trace elements in bone microstructure identifiable in cortical bone cross‐sections. It provides an efficient means of extracting the most information possible from LA‐ICP‐MS data about the lives of people in the past. Combining the two procedures makes it easier to track exposure to elements such as Pb across the part of an individual's life represented by osteon sequences.
Social housing temperature conditions and tenant priorities
Authors: Sansom Gemma , Barlow Cynthia Faye , Daniel Lyrian , Baker Emma
Published: April 2023

The social housing sector provides housing to some of society's most vulnerable people, disproportionately housing people with disabilities and chronic health conditions, the aged and people unable to work. These groups are often more susceptible to health impacts from poor temperature conditions within their home. In this paper, we examine temperature conditions in Australian social housing, explore tenant experiences and reflect on possible remediation responses. Using a novel contact‐free delivery protocol for data collection, temperature was measured in 36 social housing dwellings over a 3‐month springtime period. Semistructured interviews were conducted with occupants to better understand their experience of (adverse) indoor temperature conditions. On average, participants spent 35 per cent of time across the study period in temperatures outside the WHO guidelines (18–24°C). Most participants perceived their homes to be cold or very cold during periods of cold weather, and many considered energy unaffordable. Building conditions, such as poor sealing around windows and doors, lack of insulation and inadequacy of space heating appliances, were of greatest concern to participants. Participants' preferences for remediation work suggest that considerable benefit could be gained from making homes more energy efficient through draft sealing and insulation.
Organosulphur and organoselenium ligands in designing metal‐based catalytic systems for C—H arylation of imidazole
Authors: Sharma Deepali , Bahuguna Anurag , Rawat Saumya , Kumar Arun , Singh Ajai Kumar
Published: April 2023

Structural units substituted with imidazole motif play significant roles in many functional and biologically active molecules. Such units are important for naturally occurring chemicals, agrochemicals, medicines, and materials. An effective procedure employed for derivatizing imidazole is the arylation of CH bond with a high degree of regioselectively. C‐4 carbon in imidazole is the least preferred site of the CH arylation reaction. However, the C‐2 and C‐4 carbon centres are highly susceptible sites for arylation of imidazole. In recent years, palladium catalyzed direct coupling of imidazole and its derivatives with haloarenes has been developed. The present article aims to cover recent developments pertaining to the catalysis of CH functionalization of imidazoles by sulphur and/or selenium‐ligated palladium (II) complexes. Substrate scope of such reactions has been summarized. Variations in catalytic potential due to ligand binding mode, chalcogen donor, and other factors/features of the ligand are critically analyzed.
Creation of asymmetrically constructed cylindrical liquid crystal actuators with controllable thermal rolling
Authors: Chao Chia‐Hui , Chen Wei‐Chuan , Kuo Chung‐Yu , Liu Chun‐Yen
Published: April 2023

In this study, we demonstrate a predesigned method for the fabrication of rolling direction controllable asymmetrically constructed cylindrical liquid crystal elastomers (CLCEs). Cylindrical liquid crystal elastomers were fabricated by Michael addition, and the synthesized CLCE prepolymers were then uniaxially stretched with a twisted angle and fixed with UV polymerization. The synthesized asymmetrically constructed CLCEs reveal that the gravity center shifts from the geometric center, showing thermal actuation. The location of the asymmetric gravity center of each of the synthesized CLCEs was estimated. Based on the location of the gravity center, rolling direction control of the synthesized CLCEs was achieved. For one synthesized CLCE, both clockwise and counterclockwise rolling are possible depending on the location of the gravity center when it was placed on a hot plate. The creation of direction controllable cylindrical thermally sensitive LCE actuators is a novel skill, which opens a new avenue for the fabrication of smart functional materials.
Setting the stones to restore and monitor European flat oyster reefs in the German North Sea
Authors: Pineda‐Metz Santiago E. A. , Colsoul Bérenger , Niewöhner Miriam , Hausen Tanja , Peter Corina , Pogoda Bernadette
Published: April 2023

Ecological restoration includes specific technical phases over the course of an ecosystem recovery process. In the marine environment and for oyster reef restoration, the installation and implementation of pilot reefs close the gap between feasibility studies with small‐scale experiments and designated upscaling for marine conservation measures.

Against this background, this study presents the design, planning and installation of the first pilot oyster reef in offshore sublittoral regions of the North Sea. The work was conducted as part of marine protected area management in the Natura 2000 site Borkum Reef Ground in the German Bight, in the area of historical offshore oyster grounds.

It includes logistical considerations, material selection, methodology for reef base construction and deployment of European flat oysters Ostrea edulis as spat‐on‐shell, young and adult single seed oysters, and spat‐on‐reef, as well as the development of an efficient monitoring approach for reef‐associated biodiversity.

Native Oyster Restoration Alliance monitoring methodologies, such as underwater visual census and seabed images were selected, tested and successfully adapted for the pilot oyster reef and study site. The evaluation and optimization of offshore sublittoral oyster reef monitoring are presented here, and biodiversity metrics are put into perspective with data from recent and historical studies.

Results show a few mobile fauna species (e.g., fish and decapods) as first colonizers after reef construction. One year later, biodiversity increased due to a larger number of invertebrate and fish species. However, the pilot oyster reef community still represents an early recolonization stage, with lower biodiversity than historical records.

This study presents a proof of concept for the design, planning and construction of an offshore oyster reef and indicates stages in the recovery process. Strategies to optimize and to complement reef‐monitoring in challenging environments are discussed, emphasizing additional molecular and functional analyses for future assessments.
Production of bio‐based concrete water reducers from renewable resources: a review
Authors: Johnson Anthony Tosan , Sosa Dennise , Arredondo Rosa , Li Hongwei , Yuan Zhongshun , Xu Chunbao (Charles)
Published: April 2023

Concrete is a valuable construction material with high mechanical strength and durability, used extensively in the construction industry. It is produced by mixing sand, stones, cement, and water in different proportions depending on the desired quality of the final product. Water reducers are additional chemical ingredients used in concrete to reduce the quantity of water required in the concrete mixture. When added to concrete, water reducers increase the workability and flowability of concrete in the freshly mixed state and improve the mechanical strength and durability of the final hardened product. This review paper describes the different types and applications of concrete water reducers used in the construction industry including their working mechanisms and fluidity effects on concrete properties. It discusses the production of synthetic and bio‐based concrete water reducers and reviews the present challenges involved in the preparation of bio‐based concrete water reducers from renewable resources. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Severe graft‐versus‐host disease post allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation due to loss of HLA heterozygosity in recipient lymphocytes after full graft rejection
Authors: Xue Song , Miao Lili , Gong Zimu , Huang Wenqiu , Zhang Yongping , Liu Fuhong , Wang Jingbo
Published: April 2023

Germ cell tumors complicated by hematological malignancy (HM) are a rare clinical phenomenon. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) is a potentially effective therapy, but graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) is a life‐threatening complication. We report a case of a 13‐year‐old female patient diagnosed with germ cell tumors followed by acute lymphoblastic leukemia. After chemotherapy, she received allo‐HSCT and her chimerism rate decreased rapidly to near zero by 6 months without evidence of HM recurrence. However, she developed severe, multiorgan GVHD‐like manifestations. DNA analysis revealed the pathogenesis of GVHD to be loss of HLA heterozygosity in recipient hematopoietic cells.
UHPLC‐Orbitrap‐Fusion‐TMS‐Based Metabolomics Study of Phenylpropionamides in the Seed of Cannabis sativa L. against Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Wu Dan‐Dan , Liu Yan , Guan Wei , Pan Juan , Kuang Hai‐Xue , Yang Bing‐You
Published: April 2023

Phenylpropionamides in the seed of Cannabis sativa L. (PHS) have a protective effect on neuroinflammation and antioxidant activity. In this study, the UHPLC‐Orbitrap‐fusion‐TMS‐based metabolomics approach was used to analyze the serum samples and identify potential biomarkers in Streptozotocin (STZ) induced Alzheimer's disease (AD) rats. The results revealed that primary bile acid biosynthesis and taurine and hypotaurine metabolism were significantly correlated with STZ‐induced AD rats. In addition, the key enzymes in these two pathways were verified at the protein level. The levels of cysteine dioxygenase type I (CDO1), cysteine sulfinic acid decarboxylase (CSAD), cysteamine (2‐aminoethanethiol) dioxygenase (ADO), 7α‐hydroxylase (CYP7A1), and sterol 12α‐hydroxylase (CYP8B1) were the key enzymes affecting the two pathways in AD rats compared with the control group (CON). Furthermore, after a high‐dose group of phenylpropionamides in the seed of Cannabis sativa L. (PHS−H) was administrated, the levels of CDO1, CSAD, CYP7A1, and CYP8B1 were all callback. These findings demonstrate for the first time that the anti‐AD effect of PHS is associated with the regulation of primary bile acid biosynthesis and taurine and hypotaurine metabolism in STZ‐induced AD rats.
A challenging diagnosis for thiamine transporter deficiency anemia (Rogers syndrome) in two young siblings: A rare case report
Authors: Deeb Yara , Martini Nafiza , Ahmad Yara Ahmad , Alkosti Marwa , Hamdan Othman
Published: April 2023

We present these two cases to emphasize the necessity of critical thinking and high suspicion of the disease (Rogers syndrome) to avoid potentially fatal situations due to its rarity and the importance of early treatment.
Zinc Complexes Bearing Dinucleating Bis(imino‐ pyridine)binaphthol Ligands: Highly Active and Robust Catalysts for the Lactide Polymerization
Authors: Santulli Federica , Bruno Filippo , Mazzeo Mina , Lamberti Marina
Published: April 2023

We report the synthesis of new hexadentate ligands bearing imine and pyridine nitrogen neutral donors with a binaphthol backbone. Such ligands have been tailored to have two coordinative pockets thus promoting the formation of bimetallic complexes. By direct reaction of the enantiomerically pure and the racemic ligand with two equivalents of zinc amide precursor, the bimetallic complexes S‐1 and rac‐1 were respectively obtained. Both complexes were highly active in the polymerization of lactides under several reaction conditions, preserving exceptional activities even when working in technical grade melted lactide, thus showing the robustness of the catalysts. Interestingly, complex S‐1 allows the production of either linear or purely macrocyclic PLAs by back‐biting reactions, modifying the reaction conditions. Mechanistic studies have been carried out in NMR‐scale solution to get information on the active species of the polymerization process.
Enhancement in the limit of detection of lab‐on‐chip microfluidic devices using functional nanomaterials
Authors: Vaishampayan Vijay , Kapoor Ashish , Gumfekar Sarang P.
Published: April 2023

Technological developments in recent years have witnessed a paradigm shift towards lab‐on‐chip devices for various diagnostic applications. Lab‐on‐chip technology integrates several functions typically performed in a large‐scale analytical laboratory on a small‐scale platform. These devices are more than the miniaturized versions of conventional analytical and diagnostic techniques. The advances in fabrication techniques, material sciences, surface modification strategies, and their integration with microfluidics and chemical and biological‐based detection mechanisms have enormously enhanced the capabilities of these devices. The minuscule sample and reagent requirements, capillary‐driven pump‐free flows, faster transport phenomena, and ease of integration with various signal readout mechanisms make these platforms apt for use in resource‐limited settings, especially in developing and underdeveloped parts of the world. The microfluidic lab‐on‐a‐chip technology offers a promising approach to developing cost‐effective and sustainable point‐of‐care testing applications. Numerous merits of this technology have attracted the attention of researchers to develop low‐cost and rapid diagnostic platforms in human healthcare, veterinary medicine, food quality testing, and environmental monitoring. However, one of the major challenges associated with these devices is their limited sensitivity or the limit of detection. The use of functional nanomaterials in lab‐on‐chip microfluidic devices can improve the limit of detection by enhancing the signal‐to‐noise ratio, increasing the capture efficiency, and providing capabilities for devising novel detection schemes. This review presents an overview of state‐of‐the‐art techniques for integrating functional nanomaterials with microfluidic devices and discusses the potential applications of these devices in various fields.
Synthesis and characterization of synthetic lubricants based on dibasic acid
Authors: El‐Shazly Reham I. , Haseeb Mohamed E. , Nassar Amal M. , Ahmed Nehal S.
Published: April 2023

Synthetic esters have long been used in a variety of applications due to their excellent thermal stability, excellent cleanliness, natural lubricity, and polarity. In the present work, we aimed to prepare some synthetic base oils through preparation of different dibasic esters by esterification of dicarboxylic acids (adipic acid and azelaic acid) with different linear alcohols (hexanol, octanol, and decanol) and branched alcohol (2‐ethyl hexanol) at 120°C. The reaction yield ranges between 85% and 94%. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR) spectroscopy were used to analyze the structures of the produced compounds. Using thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), the heat stability of the produced esters was determined, and it was found that the prepared esters have high thermal stability. The degradation of the prepared esters takes place in the range between 300 and 600°C. The rheological behaviour of prepared esters shows Newtonian behaviours, which means that Newtonian fluids obey viscosity Newton's law. The viscosity is independent of the shear rate. The results showed that the lubricity properties, based on their pour point, flash point, and oxidation stability of the esters, were significantly affected by the linear and branched alcohols used. There is a slight increase in kinematic viscosity and viscosity index values with decreasing the internal chain length of the dibasic acid. The esters which were based on adipic acid such as C1 exhibited maximum values of VI: 187 compared to those which were based on azelaic acid such as F1 with VI: 182. Viscosity and viscosity index increases with increasing the number of carbon atoms of the used mono‐ol alcohols. Using branched alcohols gave almost the same viscosity results compared to using linear alcohol with the same number of carbons. Almost all prepared esters give pour point results ≤ −30°C.
Insights into the role of water concentrations on nanomechanical behavior of type I collagen‐hyaluronan interfaces in annulus fibrosus: A molecular dynamics investigation
Authors: Bhattacharya Shambo , Dubey Devendra K.
Published: April 2023

Multi‐faceted deformation capabilities of Annulus Fibrosus (AF) results from an intricate mechanical design by nature. Wherein, organization and interactions between the constituents, collagen type I (CI), collagen type II (C2), hyaluronan, aggrecan, and water are instrumental. However, mechanisms by which such interactions influence AF mechanics at tissue‐scale is not well understood. This work investigates nanoscale interfacial interactions between CI and hyaluronan (CI‐H) and presents insights into their influence on tissue‐scale mechanics of AF. For this, three‐dimensional molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of tensile and compressive deformation are conducted on atomistic model of CI‐H interface at 0%, 65%, and 75% water concentrations (WC). Results show hyaluronan lowers local hydration around CI component of interface, owing to its hydrophilic nature. Analyses show that increase in WC from 65% to 75% leads to increased interchain sliding in hyaluronan, which further lowers tensile modulus of the interface from 2.1 GPa to 660 MPa, contributing to softening observed from outer to inner AF. Furthermore, increase in WC from 65% to 75%, shifts compressive deformation from buckling‐dominant to non‐buckling‐dominant which contributes towards lower radial bulge at inner AF. Findings provide deeper insights into mechanistic interactions and mechanisms at fundamental length‐scale which influence the AF structure‐mechanics at tissue‐scale.
Harvesting Green Hydrogen by Self‐Propelling Built‐in Electric Field Photo/Electro‐catalytic Performance of DyCrO3Nanoparticles Developed by Reverse Microemulsion Route
Authors: Khan Huma , Mehtab Amir , Ahmed Jahangeer , Lofland Samuel E. , Ramanujachary Kandalam V. , Ahmad Tokeer
Published: April 2023

Herein, we demonstrate photocatalytic hydrogen generation and the role of sacrificial agents using multi‐functional DyCrO3nanoparticles by virtue of built‐in electric field (BIEF) which helps in increasing charge separation efficiency. DyCrO3nanoparticles synthesized by the low‐cost reverse micellar approach showed high surface area (17.9 m2/g) and band‐gap (2.01 eV) in visible region. Sacrificial agent assisted photocatalytic H2production of DyCrO3nanoparticles exhibited higher selectivity towards Na2S/Na2SO3by producing H2evolution of 347 μand apparent quantum yield of 6.8% than ethylene glycol and triethanolamine, respectively. The oxygen defects (observed in X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopic studies) and BIEF both synergistically helped in enhancing photocatalytic activity. Moreover, the multifunctional competence of DyCrO3nanoparticles was observed in electrocatalytic water splitting. DyCrO3nanoparticles found to be active HER and OER electrocatalyst with low overpotential and great durability.
Vitamin D status and latitude predict brain lesions in adrenoleukodystrophy
Authors: van Haren Keith P. , Wilkes Jacob , Moser Ann B. , Raymond Gerald V. , Richardson Troy , Aubourg Patrick , Collins Timothy W. , Mowry Ellen M. , Bonkowsky Joshua L.
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Approximately 40% of boys with X‐linked adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) develop inflammatory demyelinating brain lesions (cerebral ALD, cALD) and are at risk for death or severe disability. Risk factors for cALD are poorly understood. Our objective was to evaluate whether vitamin D status, which influences immune function, is associated with risk for cALD.

Methods

We used two independent cohorts to assess whether low vitamin D status is correlated with cALD. We used complementary proxies for vitamin D status: plasma 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels and latitude. In our first cohort, we measured 25‐hydroxyvitamin D in biobanked plasma samples from ALD boys with initially normal brain MRIs followed at two expert centers. In a second cohort, we measured latitude (using home ZIP code) among ALD boys identified in a national administrative database (PHIS) covering 51 US pediatric hospitals. We used logistic regression models to estimate the odds of developing cALD in each cohort.

Results

In the first cohort, we identified 20 ALD boys with a total of 53 plasma sample timepoints who met inclusion criteria; 50% (n = 10) subsequently developed cALD. Average 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels were lower among boys who developed cALD than those who did not (median 28.9 vs 36.6 ng/ml); p = 0.019. For each 10 ng/mL decrease in 25‐hydroxyvitamin D, the odds ratio for developing cALD was 6.94; p = 0.044. In the second cohort, we identified 230 ALD boys across 28 states; 57% of boys (n = 132) developed cALD. Each 2° increase in latitude conferred an odds ratio of 1.17 (95% confidence interval, 1.01, 1.35); p = 0.036 for developing cALD.

Conclusions

Using independent cohorts, we found that ALD boys with lower pre‐morbid plasma levels of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D, or more northerly latitude of residence, were more likely to develop cALD. These findings offer complementary lines of evidence that vitamin D and/or ultraviolet light exposure influence cALD risk.
Uncovering the Role of Electronic Doping in Lead‐free Perovskite (CH3NH3)2CuCl4‐xBrx and Solar Cells Fabrication
Authors: Gassara Mahdi , Hemasiri Naveen Harindu , Kazim Samrana , Costantino Ferdinando , Naïli Houcine , Ahmad Shahzada
Published: April 2023

Lead halide perovskites are attractive pigments to fabricate solar cells in the laboratory, owing to their high power conversion efficiency. However, given the presence of Pb, such materials also have a high level of toxicity and are carcinogenic for humans and aquatic life. Arguably, this hampers their acceptability for immediate commercialization. This study entails the synthesis, optoelectronic properties, and photovoltaic parameters of two‐dimensional copper‐based perovskites as an environmentally benign alternative to lead‐based perovskites. The perovskites – (CH3NH3)2CuCl4‐xBrx with x=0.3 and 0.66 – are derivatives of the stable (CH3NH3)2CuCl4. The single crystals and powders diffractograms suggest compositions with variations in Cl/Br ratio and dissimilar bromine localization in the inorganic framework. The copper mixed halide perovskite exhibits a narrow absorption with a bandgap of 2.54–2.63 eV related to the halide ratio disparity (crystal color variation). These findings demonstrate the impact of halides to optimize the stability of methylammonium copper perovskites and provide an effective pathway to design eco‐friendly perovskites for optoelectronic applications.
Maternal negative affect moderates behavioral and physiological synchrony in Latinx and Black mother–child dyads
Authors: Hale Molly E. , Morrow Kayley E. , George Andrea M. , Gayer Amy , Caughy Margaret O. , Suveg Cynthia
Published: April 2023

Positive behavioral synchrony (PBS) between mothers and children involves the bidirectional exchange of verbal and nonverbal communication. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) synchrony reflects the concordance between mother–child physiological states. Both PBS and RSA synchrony can be undermined by psychopathology symptoms. Latinx and Black families may experience contextual stressors that contribute to heightened symptoms of psychopathology, yet minimal research has examined relations between psychopathology symptoms with PBS and RSA synchrony in these families. The present study assessed associations between maternal depressive and child internalizing symptoms, mother and child negative affect (NA), and PBS and RSA synchrony in a sample of 100 Latina and Black mothers (Mage = 34.48 years, SD = 6.39 years) and their children (Mage = 6.83 years, SD = 1.50 years). Dyads engaged in a video‐recorded stress task where RSA was collected continuously. Videos were later coded for PBS and mother and child NA. Mothers reported on their depressive and child's internalizing symptoms. Maternal NA was associated with weak PBS and negative RSA synchrony. Neither depressive and internalizing symptoms nor child NA were associated with PBS or RSA synchrony. Results highlight the potency of maternal NA on behavioral and physiological synchrony in Latinx and Black families.
Construction of a web‐based dynamic nomogram for predicting the prognosis in acute heart failure
Authors: Gao Rongrong , Qu Qiang , Guo Qixin , Sun Jinyu , Liao Shengen , Zhu Qingqing , Zhu Xu , Cheang Iokfai , Yao Wenming , Zhang Haifeng , Li Xinli , Zhou Yanli
Published: April 2023

Aims

The early identification and appropriate management may provide clinically meaningful and substained benefits in patients with acute heart failure (AHF). This study aimed to develop an integrative nomogram with myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) for predicting the risk of all‐cause mortality in AHF patients.

Methods and results

Prospective study of 147 patients with AHF who received gated MPI (59.0 [47.5, 68.0] years; 78.2% males) were enrolled and followed for the primary endpoint of all‐cause mortality. We analysed the demographic information, laboratory tests, electrocardiogram, and transthoracic echocardiogram by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression for selection of key features. A multivariate stepwise Cox analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors and construct a nomogram. The predictive values of the constructed model were compared by Kaplan–Meier curve, area under the curves (AUCs), calibration plots, continuous net reclassification improvement, integrated discrimination improvement, and decision curve analysis. The 1, 3, and 5 year cumulative rates of death were 10%, 22%, and 29%, respectively. Diastolic blood pressure [hazard ratio (HR) 0.96, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93–0.99; P = 0.017], valvular heart disease (HR 3.05, 95% CI 1.36–6.83; P = 0.007), cardiac resynchronization therapy (HR 0.37, 95% CI 0.17–0.82; P = 0.014), N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (per 100 pg/mL; HR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01–1.03; P < 0.001), and rest scar burden (HR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01–1.06; P = 0.008) were independent risk factors for patients with AHF. The cross‐validated AUCs (95% CI) of nomogram constructed by diastolic blood pressure, valvular heart disease, cardiac resynchronization therapy, N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide, and rest scar burden were 0.88 (0.73–1.00), 0.83 (0.70–0.97), and 0.79 (0.62–0.95) at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. Continuous net reclassification improvement and integrated discrimination improvement were also observed, and the decision curve analysis identified the greater net benefit of the nomogram across a wide range of threshold probabilities (0–100% at 1 and 3 years; 0–61% and 62–100% at 5 years) compared with dismissing the included factors or using either factor alone.

Conclusions

A predictive nomogram for the risk of all‐cause mortality in patients with AHF was developed and validated in this study. The nomogram incorporated the rest scar burden by MPI is highly predictive, and may help to better stratify clinical risk and guide treatment decisions in patients with AHF.
Tunable magnetophoretic method for distinguishing and separating wear debris particles in an Fe‐PDMS‐based microfluidic chip
Authors: Zhao Kai , Wei Yunman , Zhao Penglu , Kong Dejian , Gao Tianbo , Pan Xinxiang , Wang Junsheng
Published: April 2023

Wear debris analysis provides an early warning of mechanical transmission system aging and wear fault diagnosis, which has been widely used in machine health monitoring. The ability to detect and distinguish the ferromagnetic and nonmagnetic debris in oil is becoming an effective way to assess the health status of machinery. In this work, an Fe‐poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS)‐based magnetophoretic method for the continuous separation of ferromagnetic iron particles by diameter and the isolation of ferromagnetic particles and nonmagnetic particles with similar diameter by type is developed. The particles experience magnetophoretic effects when passing through the vicinity of the Fe‐PDMS where the strongest gradient of the magnetic fields exists. By choosing a relatively short distance between the magnet and the sidewall of the horizontal main channel and the length of Fe‐PDMS with controlled particles flow rate, the diameter‐dependent separation of ferromagnetic iron particles, that is, smaller than 7 µm, in the range of 8–12 µm, and larger than 14 µm, and the isolation of ferromagnetic iron particles and nonmagnetic aluminum particles based on opposite magnetophoretic behaviors by types are demonstrated, providing a potential method for the detection of wear debris particles with a high sensitivity and resolution and the diagnostic of mechanical system.
Efficient Electrooxidation of Ethanol on Annular Cu@Pt–Ru Ternary Metal Catalyst
Authors: Zhou Wenchang , Yan Ruiwen , Zhou Sijie
Published: April 2023

Many efforts have been made to develop efficient electrocatalysts for ethanol fuel cells. However, the commonly used Pt‐based catalysts still have some shortcomings, such as low catalytic activity, severe CO poisoning, and poor stability. Herein, the preparation of Cu@Pt–Ru catalysts with high activity against CO poisoning by using an electrochemical method is reported. Because of its interatomic electronic effects, the Cu@Pt6.98Ru1 catalyst exhibits high electrocatalytic performance for the ethanol oxidation reaction. The mass activity reaches 641 mA mgPt−1, which are 2.9, 5.13, and 8.8 times those of CuPt, PtRu/C, and Pt/C catalysts, respectively. The specific activity reaches 3.19 mA cm−2, which are 1.77, 2.06, and 2.4 times those of CuPt, PtRu/C, and Pt/C catalysts, respectively. The catalytic activity remains relatively high after 2000s. The results have proven that the successful introduction of Cu and Ru into the Pt lattice would improve the catalytic activity and stability and increase its ability to resist CO poisoning of the catalyst.
Simple Fabrication of Ti3C2/MnO2 Composites as Cathode Material for High Capacity and Long Cycle Lifespan Zn‐ion Batteries
Authors: Xi Shuang , Cheng Ximing , Gao Xingwei , Sun Zhijian , Liu Huilong
Published: April 2023

Rechargeable aqueous Zn‐MnO2 batteries are potential candidates for electrochemical energy storage systems due to their easy fabrication, nontoxicity, and low‐cost features. However, the practical application of the MnO2‐based cathode is impeded by its low electrical conductivity and poor stability during cycling. Herein, the Ti3C2/MnO2 composite cathode is elaborately designed and fabricated via a simple mechanical grinding method. Benefiting from the high conductivity of Ti3C2 MXene along with the abundant active sites of nano‐MnO2, the obtained Ti3C2/MnO2 electrode shows fast ion transfer and enhanced structural stability. Therefore, Ti3C2/MnO2 composite as the cathode of zinc ion battery exhibits superior charge storage performance (354 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1, which is 30% higher than that of pure MnO2 cathode), high cycling stability (85% capacitance retention along with about 100% columbic efficiency after 850 cycles at l A g−1), excellent energy density (467.33 Wh kg−l at 260 W kg−1), and impressive long‐term lifespan (65.1 mAh g−1 over 900 h at 0.1 A g−1). Furthermore, the mechanism related is elucidated via comprehensive characterizations. Herein, it provides a convenient and efficient method to fabricate high‐performance Mn‐based cathode for Zinc‐ion batteries.
Divalent Ion Pillaring and Coating on Lithium Cobalt Oxide Cathode for Fast Intercalation of Li+ Ion with High Capacity
Authors: Hasan Fuead , Abdelazeez Ahmed Adel A. , Rabia Mohamed , Yoo Hyun Deog
Published: April 2023

The development of high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) is essential for sustainable energy storage and utilization. Lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2, LCO) is widely used as a cathode material in LIBs due to its excellent electrochemical properties. However, its capacity is limited by structural changes and severe side reactions at high voltage and temperature. To overcome this issue, this study combines two strategies to enhance the intercalation kinetics of the LCO cathode. First, ionic pillars of various ions (e.g., Mg2+ and Ca2+) are doped to stabilize the structure at high voltage. Second, lithium‐ion conducting lithium phosphate (Li3PO4) is coated to prevent direct contact between the liquid electrolytes and LCO particles, minimizing the formation of resistive surface films. The combination of these strategies results in a synergetic effect that significantly improves the energy density, thermal stability, cycling stability, and rate capability of the cathode. A rate capability of 100 mAh g−1 at 10C is achieved, and a stable cycle performance with 98% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 0.5C is observed. Herein, the potential pathways of enhancing the energy density of current cathode materials through a synergistic combination of surface and structural engineering are highlighted.