bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of heterogeneity variance based on a generalized Q statistic in meta‐analysis of log‐odds‐ratio
Authors: Kulinskaya Elena , Hoaglin David C.
Published: June 2023

For estimation of heterogeneity variance in meta‐analysis of log‐odds‐ratio, we derive new mean‐ and median‐unbiased point estimators and new interval estimators based on a generalized statistic, , in which the weights depend on only the studies' effective sample sizes. We compare them with familiar estimators based on the inverse‐variance‐weights version of , In an extensive simulation, we studied the bias (including median bias) of the point estimators and the coverage (including left and right coverage error) of the confidence intervals. Most estimators add to each cell of the table when one cell contains a zero count; we include a version that always adds . The results show that: two of the new point estimators and two of the familiar point estimators are almost unbiased when the total sample size and the probability in the Control arm () is 0.1, and when and is 0.2 or 0.5; for , all estimators have negative bias for small to medium sample sizes, but for larger sample sizes some of the new median‐unbiased estimators are almost median‐unbiased; choices of interval estimators depend on values of parameters, but one of the new estimators is reasonable when and another, when or ; and lack of balance between left and right coverage errors for small and/or implies that the available approximations for the distributions of and are accurate only for larger sample sizes.
White rice enrichment with phenols upon cooking in olive leaf infusion: a preliminary study
Authors: Noureldein Mai , Grigorakis Spyros , Kellil Abdessamie , Nenadis Nikolaos
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

White rice is poor in health‐promoting phytochemicals; therefore, the production of a phenol‐enriched commodity is highly desirable. Recent findings on its enrichment via cooking in plant extracts are promising, yet studies employing aqueous extracts of olive leaves (OLs), containing well‐recognized bioactive phenols (e.g. oleuropein) are absent. In addition, little is known about the levels of phenols that are maintained after rice drying and rehydration, an important aspect for the future design of ‘ready‐to‐eat’ functional rice.

RESULTS

The examination, for the first time, of white rice adsorption capacity of phenols from OLs upon cooking in infusions containing different levels of phenols, after freeze‐drying and rehydration, showed the following: (i) the total phenol content, the antioxidant activity (assessed via 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays), the oleuropein and luteolin‐7‐O‐glucoside levels increased dose dependently; (ii) upon rehydration, the average decrease of total phenol content and antioxidant activity values was significantly lower when an exact volume of water was used compared with an excess (~10% versus 63%). A similar trend was observed for oleuropein (36% versus 83%) and the luteolin‐7‐O‐glucoside (24 versus 82%) levels; (iii) the dried enriched kernels were less bright with a hay‐yellow hue (CIELab coordinates).

CONCLUSION

White rice enrichment with biophenols from OLs, a by‐product of olive tree cultivation, was successful using a simple approach. Despite leaching upon freeze‐drying/rehydration, sufficient amounts were maintained to obtain a functional rice that could serve as an alternative dietary source of OLs phenols to non‐traditional olive tree product consumers or those refraining from sodium and fats. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Nonviral overexpression of Scleraxis or Mohawk drives reprogramming of degenerate human annulus fibrosus cells from a diseased to a healthy phenotype
Authors: Tang Shirley , Gantt Connor , Salazar Puerta Ana , Bodine Lucy , Khan Safdar , Higuita‐Castro Natalia , Purmessur Devina
Published: June 2023

Background

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a major contributor to low back pain (LBP), yet there are no clinical therapies targeting the underlying pathology. The annulus fibrosus (AF) plays a critical role in maintaining IVD structure/function and undergoes degenerative changes such as matrix catabolism and inflammation. Thus, therapies targeting the AF are crucial to fully restore IVD function. Previously, we have shown nonviral delivery of transcription factors to push diseased nucleus pulposus cells to a healthy phenotype. As a next step in a proof‐of‐concept study, we report the use of Scleraxis (SCX) and Mohawk (MKX), which are critical for the development, maintenance, and regeneration of the AF and may have therapeutic potential to induce a healthy, pro‐anabolic phenotype in diseased AF cells.

Methods

MKX and SCX plasmids were delivered via electroporation into diseased human AF cells from autopsy specimens and patients undergoing surgery for LBP. Transfected cells were cultured over 14 days and assessed for cell morphology, viability, density, gene expression of key phenotypic, inflammatory, matrix, pain markers, and collagen accumulation.

Results

AF cells demonstrated a fibroblastic phenotype posttreatment. Moreover, transfection of SCX and MKX resulted in significant upregulation of the respective genes, as well as SOX9. Transfected autopsy cells demonstrated upregulation of core extracellular matrix markers; however, this was observed to a lesser effect in surgical cells. Matrix‐degrading enzymes and inflammatory cytokines were downregulated, suggesting a push toward a pro‐anabolic, anti‐inflammatory phenotype. Similarly, pain markers were downregulated over time in autopsy cells. At the protein level, collagen content was increased in both MKX and SCX transfected cells compared to controls.

Conclusions

This exploratory study demonstrates the potential of MKX or SCX to drive reprogramming in mild to moderately degenerate AF cells from autopsy and severely degenerate AF cells from surgical patients toward a healthy phenotype and may be a potential nonviral gene therapy for LBP.
Separation and purification of quinolyridine alkaloids from seeds of Thermopsis lanceolata R. Br. by conventional and pH‐zone‐refining counter‐current chromatography
Authors: Ning Fansheng , Zhu Heng , Yan Huijiao , Liu Jiguo , Aziz Shahid , Hussain Hidayat , Song Xiangyun , Xie Lei , Meng Zhaoqing , Cao Guiyun , Wang Daijie
Published: June 2023

In this work, the preparative separation of quinolyridine alkaloids from seeds of T. lanceolata by conventional and pH‐zone‐refining counter‐current chromatography. Traditional counter‐current chromatography separation was performed by a flow‐rate changing strategy with a solvent system of ethyl acetate‐n‐butanol‐water (1:9:10, v/v) and 200 mg sample loading. Meanwhile, the pH‐zone‐refining mode was adopted for separating 2.0 g crude alkaloid extracts with the chloroform‐methanol‐water (4:3:3, v/v) solvent system using the stationary and mobile phases of 40 mM hydrochloric acid and 10 mM triethylamine. Finally, six compounds, including N‐formylcytisine (two conformers) (1), N‐acetycytisine (two conformers) (2), (‐)‐cytisine (3), 13‐β‐hydroxylthermopsine (4), N‐methylcytisine (5), and thermopsine (6) were successfully obtained in the two counter‐current chromatography modes with the purities over 96.5%. Moreover, we adopted nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry for structural characterization. Based on the obtained findings, the pH‐zone‐refining mode was the efficient method to separate quinolyridine alkaloids relative to the traditional mode.
Prolonged Itraconazole Therapy as Sole Treatment for Patients with Allergic Fungal Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Shah B , Kajal S , Bhalla AS , Madan K , Viswanathan GK , Thakar A , Sikka K , Bairwa M , Verma H
Published: June 2023

Background

Currently, the mainstay of treatment for allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS) is surgical debridement along with topical or systemic steroids. However, prolonged systemic steroid therapy comes with side effects and is also sometimes contraindicated. Systemic antifungals have been used earlier as an adjunct to steroids or in refractory cases, but they have not been used as the sole primary treatment.

Objective

To study the effectiveness of sole Itraconazole therapy in patients with AFRS by comparison of clinical, radiological, and biochemical parameters before and after treatment.

Methods

Thirty‐four patients diagnosed with localized sino‐nasal AFRS were recruited and started on the tablet Itraconazole 200 mg orally twice daily for 3 months with q2weekly monitoring of liver function tests. The baseline clinical, radiological, and biochemical parameters were then compared with those after completion of 3 months of Itraconazole therapy.

Results

There was significant difference between all the parameters—clinical: SNOT‐22 score (p < 0.001) and Meltzer endoscopy score (p < 0.001), radiological: Lund‐Mackay score (p = 0.004) and 20‐point CT score (p = 0.002), and biochemical: serum total IgE (p < 0.001), Aspergillus‐specific IgE (p < 0.001), and absolute eosinophil count (p < 0.001). The clearance of the disease was more in anterior sinuses than the posterior ones.

Conclusion

Prolonged Itraconazole can be given as sole therapy in AFRS, especially in patients for whom steroids are contraindicated or in those who are awaiting surgery. It can result in symptomatic and radiological improvement, but surgery still remains the definitive treatment option for AFRS for complete clearance of disease.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:545–551, 2024
Efficacy of Chemotherapy After Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Discontinuation in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Fukuoka Osamu , Saito Yuki , Mukai Toshiyuki , Hayashi Takaaki , Yamamura Koji , Sakai Toshihiko , Kobayashi Kenya , Akashi Ken , Yoshida Masafumi , Ando Mizuo , Yamasoba Tatsuya
Published: June 2023

Objective

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have become widely used becuse of their effectiveness and relatively low rate of severe adverse events. However, active treatment should be continued after discontinuation of ICI as response rates are lower than that of conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy. The purpose of the present study was to determine the efficacy of treatment after ICI discontinuation.

Methods

This was a retrospective study from hospital charts of 99 consecutive cases treated with ICI at our facility since 2017. Of these, 79 cases of squamous cell carcinoma which had already discontinued ICI were enrolled in the present study.

Results

After discontinuation of ICI, 40 cases received active treatment with salvage chemotherapy (SCTx; 33 cases) or surgery or radiotherapy (seven patients) and 39 cases received nonactive treatment. SCTx comprising paclitaxel and cetuximab (PTX‐Cmab) was administered to 15 cases and other SCTx regimens to 18 cases. A significant increase in overall survival (OS) was observed with active treatment compared with nonactive treatment. No significant differences in OS or progression‐free survival (PFS) were observed between SCTx regimens; however, there was a trend toward increased survival with PTX‐Cmab. Univariate analysis of overall response rate (ORR) demonstrated significant differences in the site of disease at ICI and SCTx regimens. A significant difference in disease control rate was observed between SCTx regimens. Multivariate analysis of ORR demonstrated a significant correlation with PTX‐Cmab treatment.

Conclusion

Active treatment after ICI discontinuation and the use of PTX‐Cmab as SCTx may increase OS in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:228–235, 2024
CDOM spectral slope (S275–295) as tracers of water masses, CDOM heterogeneity, and Δ14C‐DOC in an oligotrophic marginal sea
Authors: Song Guisheng , Yang Fangming , Massicotte Philippe , Wei Hao , Xie Huixiang
Published: June 2023

The absorption spectral slope, S275–295, is an optical metric frequently employed for characterizing chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM). We collected CDOM absorption (aCDOM) and fluorescence spectra from the oligotrophic offshore South China Sea to identify the major determinant of S275–295 and to explore the potential of S275–295 as physical and biogeochemical tracers. S275–295 linearly decreased with increasing humic‐like fluorescent DOM, revealing the latter as the primary control on S275–295. The variability of S275–295 consistently declined from the surface to deep water, making S275–295 a potential indicator of CDOM molecular heterogeneity. The S275–295 vs. aCDOM plot was found to be a useful tool for characterizing water masses. The 14C content of dissolved organic carbon (Δ14C‐DOC) shows a strong correlation to S275–295, demonstrating S275–295 to be a proxy of the 14C‐age of DOM. A provisional equation, ln(−Δ14C‐DOC) = (−0.85 ± 0.06) × ln(S275–295) + (8.78 ± 0.19), was proposed to estimate Δ14C‐DOC from S275–295 for global oligotrophic oceans.
Room‐Temperature Lewis Acid Organocatalysts for Bulk Ring‐Opening Polymerization of Bis‐Lithium N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes Complexes Activated on ε‐Caprolactone: Synthetic, Experimental, and Density Functional Theory of Mechanistic Studies
Authors: Cheechana Nathaporn , Akkravijitkul Natthapol , Khamto Nopawit , Rithchumpon Puracheth , Junpirom Thiti , Limwanich Wanich , Punyodom Winita , Tantirungrotechai Yuthana , Nimmanpipug Piyarat , Meepowpan Puttinan
Published: June 2023

This work investigates the high catalytic activity of bi‐functional lithium N‐heterocyclic carbene (bisLiNHCs) complexes in bulk ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of ε‐caprolactone (ε‐CL) monomer at room temperature. The study employs a bulk ROP technique using tetramethylene‐tethered bis[N‐(N′‐alkyl/arylimidazolium)] bishexafluorophosphate (bis[Bim][PF6]), benzyl alcohol (BnOH), and n‐butyl lithium (nBuLi) in molar ratios of 1:2:4. The results show that 1,4‐bisLiNHC (3a) has the highest catalytic capability, producing the highest molecular weight of PCL with acceptable dispersity in only 93 s (59 361 g mol−1, Đ = 1.8). However, longer and aromatic linker chains (3b‐3g) are found to be less effective due to the increased steric effect for complex formation with the monomer, leading to longer reaction times and lower molecular weight PCL with wider dispersity. Additionally, the study conducts a mechanistic analysis using the DFT method with B3LYP (6‐31G(d,p)) as the basis set. The most plausible mechanism proposed involves continuous and coordinated insertion with low energy barriers.
Solvability of general fully coupled forward–backward stochastic difference equations with delay and applications
Authors: Song Teng
Published: June 2023

A class of fully coupled forward–backward stochastic difference equations with delay (FBSDDEs) over infinite horizon are considered in this article. By establishing a non‐homogeneous explicit relation between the forward and backward equations in terms of Riccati‐like difference equations, we derive the unique solution to the FBSDDEs under certain conditions. Then, we deduce that the FBSDDEs are solvable if and only if the corresponding stochastic delayed system is ‐degree open‐loop mean‐square exponentially stabilizable. Finally, as an application, the FBSDDEs are employed to demonstrate the maximum principle of the stochastic LQ optimal control problem.
Do daily interaction patterns differ between empty nesters and non‐empty nesters? The role of different interaction partners in a Chinese sample
Authors: Li Xiying , Ma Zepei , Zhang Xingyu , Ma Xiaohui , Pi Zhongling
Published: June 2023

The empty nest is a phase of life that most parents will experience when their children grow up and leave home. However, little attention has been given to changes that take place in empty nesters' daily patterns of interaction. This study aimed to examine the differences between empty nesters and non‐empty nesters in relation to their daily interactions and the affect of various social partners. A total of 208 participants were recruited via convenience sampling; they were asked to record their daily interactions using the Rochester Interaction Record and to rate their affect after each interaction using the Positive Affect–Negative Affect Scale. The results showed that daily interactions were related to a higher increase of positive affect in empty nesters than in non‐empty nesters when interactions were with adult children. In contrast, daily interactions of non‐empty nesters were related to a higher decrease in negative affect when the interactions were with friends, neighbors, and strangers. These findings indicate that the patterns of daily interactions differ between empty nesters and non‐empty nesters. Specifically, the daily interactions of empty nesters were seen to be more related to a higher increase in positive affect, whereas the daily interactions of non‐empty nesters were seen to be more related to a higher decrease in negative affect. This study showed the differences in daily interaction patterns between empty and non‐empty nesters across diverse social partners. The findings on the daily interaction patterns have some implications for older adults: (1) empty nesters can improve daily interaction with adult children, relatives, and colleagues for a higher positive affect; (2) non‐empty nesters can improve daily interactions with friends, neighbors, and strangers to relieve their negative affect.
Clinical practice for unspecified anxiety disorder in primary care
Authors: Sakurai Hitoshi , Takeshima Masahiro , Inada Ken , Aoki Yumi , Ie Kenya , Kise Morito , Yoshida Eriko , Tsuboi Takashi , Yamada Hisashi , Hori Hikaru , Inada Yasushi , Shimizu Eiji , Mishima Kazuo , Watanabe Koichiro , Takaesu Yoshikazu
Published: June 2023

Aim

Clinicians face difficulties in making treatment decisions for unspecified anxiety disorder due to the absence of any treatment guidelines. The objective of this study was to investigate how familiar and how often primary care physicians use pharmacological and nonpharmacological approaches to manage the disorder.

Methods

A survey was conducted among 117 primary care physicians in Japan who were asked to assess the familiarity of using each treatment option for unspecified anxiety disorder on a binary response scale (0 = “unfamiliar,” 1 = “familiar”) and the frequency on a nine‐point Likert scale (1 = “never used,” 9 = “frequently used”).

Results

While several benzodiazepine anxiolytics were familiar to primary care physicians, the frequencies of prescribing them, including alprazolam (4.6 ± 2.6), ethyl loflazepate (3.6 ± 2.4), and clotiazepam (3.5 ± 2.3), were low. In contrast, certain nonpharmacological options, including lifestyle changes (5.4 ± 2.3), coping strategies (5.1 ± 2.7), and psychoeducation for anxiety (5.1 ± 2.7), were more commonly utilized, but to a modest extent. When a benzodiazepine anxiolytic drug failed to be effective, primary care physicians selected the following management strategies to a relatively high degree: differential diagnosis (6.4 ± 2.4), referral to a specialist hospital (5.9 ± 2.5), lifestyle changes (5.2 ± 2.5), and switching to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (5.1 ± 2.4).

Conclusion

Primary care physicians exercise caution when prescribing benzodiazepine anxiolytics for unspecified anxiety disorder. Nonpharmacological interventions and switching to SSRI are modestly employed as primary treatment options and alternatives to benzodiazepine anxiolytics. To ensure the safe and effective treatment of unspecified anxiety disorder in primary care, more information should be provided from field experts.
Using long‐term data from a whole ecosystem warming experiment to identify best spring and autumn phenology models
Authors: Schädel Christina , Seyednasrollah Bijan , Hanson Paul J. , Hufkens Koen , Pearson Kyle J. , Warren Jeffrey M. , Richardson Andrew D.
Published: June 2023

Predicting vegetation phenology in response to changing environmental factors is key in understanding feedbacks between the biosphere and the climate system. Experimental approaches extending the temperature range beyond historic climate variability provide a unique opportunity to identify model structures that are best suited to predicting phenological changes under future climate scenarios. Here, we model spring and autumn phenological transition dates obtained from digital repeat photography in a boreal Picea‐Sphagnum bog in response to a gradient of whole ecosystem warming manipulations of up to +9°C, using five years of observational data. In spring, seven equally best‐performing models for Larix utilized the accumulation of growing degree days as a common driver for temperature forcing. For Picea, the best two models were sequential models requiring winter chilling before spring forcing temperature is accumulated. In shrub, parallel models with chilling and forcing requirements occurring simultaneously were identified as the best models. Autumn models were substantially improved when a CO2 parameter was included. Overall, the combination of experimental manipulations and multiple years of observations combined with variation in weather provided the framework to rule out a large number of candidate models and to identify best spring and autumn models for each plant functional type.
Use of telehealth for psychosocial oncology: A mixed methods study about barriers to and opportunities with Latino patients from Latin America, Spain, and the United States
Authors: Ruda‐Santolaria Lourdes , Bergerot Cristiane , Hernandez Jazmin , Pena Cristina , Montana Maria F. , Galindo‐Vazquez Oscar , Torres‐Blasco Normarie , Castro‐Figueroa Eida , Esenarro Loida , Sanchez‐Ramirez Jose C. , Estapé Tania , Gany Francesca , Costas‐Muniz Rosario
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Telehealth for mental healthcare expanded rapidly with the COVID‐19 pandemic's onset; however, global access disparities emerged. Telehealth challenges and opportunities for Latino cancer patients from different geographical regions must be explored.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey (March‐July 2021) of mental health providers, serving Latino cancer patients in Latin America, United States, and Spain, contained close‐ended questions related to the use of telehealth during the pandemic and open‐ended questions on recommending/not recommending telehealth.

Results

In a sample of 148 providers from 21 countries, 60.5% reported that at least some of their patients had difficulties with Internet speed and connectivity and lacked knowledge about using electronic devices (43.2%) or the Internet (45.4%). Lacking privacy at home (66.0%) and childcare (26.0%) were reported patient challenges. Internet connectivity or speed were issues for providers (43.2%) themselves. Improving patient reach was a reported telehealth benefit (64.2%). Geographical access (43.2%) and physical limitations (35.8%) were considerations in offering telehealth. Considerations for not recommending telehealth were patient age (24.3%) and lacking technological knowledge (29.1%).

Conclusions

Telehealth for mental healthcare may improve patient access issues caused by geographical and transportation conditions and patient functionality. Findings provide insight into telehealth benefits and challenges in Latino patient populations. Future studies should examine patient access and use by region.
P(VDF/TrFE) Thin‐Film Piezoelectric Actuators Sealed Parylene C for Medical Micropumps
Authors: Shikata Keigo , Koshiba Yasuko , Horike Shohei , Ishida Kenji
Published: June 2023

Wearable piezoelectric micropumps may contribute to improving drug delivery in the field of medicine. Poly(vinylidene fluoride/trifluoroethylene) (P(VDF/TrFE)), an organic ferroelectric polymer, is a desirable material for fabricating the piezoelectric layer of medical micropumps owing to its biocompatibility and flexibility. However, a large voltage is required to drive the micropumps because the piezoelectric response of P(VDF/TrFE) is small compared with that of inorganic materials, such as lead zirconate titanate. In this study, thin films (P(VDF/TrFE)) are focused that can reduce applied voltage and improve the flexibility of entire actuators. In addition, actuators sealed with poly(monochloro‐paraxylene) (Parylene C) are considered, which has excellent chemical resistance, flexibility, and biocompatibility. The calculated piezoelectric constant |e31| of the fabricated P(VDF/TrFE) thin films is 42 mC m−2. A large deformation of 1 mm is observed in the fabricated cantilever‐type actuators sealed with Parylene C when a voltage of 160 V is applied. Furthermore, the vibration of the actuators by the reverse piezoelectric effect on the water surface is observed. It is indicated in these results that a low voltage can safely drive P(VDF/TrFE) thin‐film piezoelectric actuators sealed with Parylene C in medical micropumps.
Effect of Low Energy Argon Ions Etching on the 4H–SiCOI Composite Substrate Prepared by Crystal‐Ion‐Slicing Technique
Authors: Xu Jintao , Luo Wenbo , Zhu Dailei , Wang Gengyu , Wang Yuedong , Shuai Yao , Wu Chuangui , Zhang Wanli
Published: June 2023

4H–SiC single‐crystal film is transferred to SiO2/Si insulating substrate by crystal‐ion‐slicing technology to form silicon carbide‐on‐insulator composite substrate, and the composite substrate is etched by low energy Ar+ ions irradiation. The amorphous oxide layer and defect layer are found on the surface of the exfoliated SiC film by using transmission electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy are used to characterize the thickness, roughness, and crystal quality of the exfoliated SiC film. The result shows that the thickness of the film decreases from 1.238 to 0.911 μm, and the root mean square roughness decreases from 1.408 to 0.635 nm. Raman spectra show that the crystal quality of the SiC film is improved after etching. Moreover, the oxidation layer and defect layer on the surface of the SiC film can be quickly etched by Ar+ ions irradiation.
Adaptive actor‐critic neural optimal control for constrained nonstrict feedback nonlinear systems via command filter
Authors: Hua Yu , Zhang Tianping
Published: June 2023

The actor‐critic neural optimal control is investigated for the state‐constrained nonlinear systems in the nonstrict feedback form with unmodeled dynamics in this paper. The filtering errors in the traditional dynamic surface control (DSC) are countervailed by the introduced compensation signals. Two design phases together determine the input: the feedforward input design and the near optimal input design. In the feedforward input design, a mapping rule is established to keep all the states in the finite range, and a first‐order adjunctive signal is designed to treat the unmodeled dynamics. In the near optimal input design, the cost function relying on the reconstructed error system is minimized by the near optimal input via adaptive dynamic programming (ADP). In the whole design processing, the unknown nonlinear uncertain parts are fitted by the radial basis function neural networks (RBFNNs). The stability analysis illustrates all the signals are bounded in the controlled system. Two simulation examples are employed to verify the theoretical findings.
Engineered Collaborative Size Regulation and Shape Engineering of Tremella‐Like Au‐MnOx for Highly Sensitive Bimodal‐Type Lateral Flow Immunoassays
Authors: Liu Sijie , Liao Yangjun , Zhang Yinuo , Shu Rui , Zhang Mingrui , Luo Xing , Sun Chenyang , Dou Leina , Luo Linpin , Sun Jing , Zhang Daohong , Zeng Lintao , Wang Jianlong
Published: June 2023

Engineered collaborative size regulation and shape engineering of multi‐functional nanomaterials (NPs) offer extraordinary opportunities for improving the analysis performance. It is anticipated to address the difficulty in distinguishing color changes caused by subtle variations in target concentrations, thereby facilitating the highly sensitive analysis of lateral flow immunoassays (LFIAs). Herein, tremella‐like gold‐manganese oxide (Au‐MnOx) nanoparticles with precise MnCl2 regulation are synthesized as immuno signal tracers via a facile one‐step redox reaction in alkaline condition at ambient temperature. Avail of the tunable elemental composition and anisotropy in morphology, black‐colored tremella‐like Au‐MnOx exhibits superb colorimetric signal brightness, enhanced antibody coupling efficiency, marvelous photothermal performance, and unrestricted immunological recognition affinity, all of which facilitate highly sensitive multi‐signal transduction patterns. In conjunction with the handheld thermal reader device, a bimodal‐type LFIA that combines size‐regulation‐ and shape‐engineering‐mediated colorimetric‐photothermal dual‐response assay (coined as the SSCPD assay) with a limit of detection of 0.012 ng mL−1 for ractopamine (RAC) monitoring is achieved by integrating Au‐MnOx with the competitive‐type immunoreaction. This work illustrates the effectiveness of this strategy for establishing high‐performance sensing, and the SSCPD assay may be extended to a wide spectrum of future point‐of‐care (POC) diagnostic applications.
Engineering a Hollow Carbon Sphere‐Based Triphase Microenvironment for Enhanced Enzymatic Reaction Kinetics and Bioassay Performance
Authors: Li Xiaohui , Wang Dandan , Ding Zhenyao , Chen Xi , Chen Liping , Ni Weihai , Feng Xinjian
Published: June 2023

Electrochemical bioassays based on oxidase reactions are frequently used in biological sciences and medical industries. However, the enzymatic reaction kinetics are severely restricted by the poor solubility and slow diffusion rate of oxygen in conventional solid‒liquid diphase reaction systems, which inevitably compromises the detection accuracy, linearity, and reliability of the oxidase‐based bioassay. Herein, an effective solid‒liquid‒air triphase bioassay system is provided that uses hydrophobic hollow carbon spheres (HCSs) as oxygen nanocarriers. The oxygen stored in the cavity of HCS can rapidly diffuse to the oxidase active sites through the mesoporous carbon shell, providing sufficient oxygen for oxidase‐based enzymatic reactions. As a result, the triphase system can significantly improve the enzymatic reaction kinetics and obtain a 20‐fold higher linear detection range than the normal diphase system. Other biomolecules can also be determined using this triphase technique, and the triphase design strategy offers a new route to address the gas deficiency problem in catalytic reactions that involve gas consumption.
Strong Ti3C2Tx MXene‐Based Composite Films Fabricated through Bioinspired Bridging for Flexible Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Wang Jianhua , Jiang Degang , Du Yiqi , Zhang Maozhuang , Sun Yuesheng , Jiang Mingyuan , Xu Jiangtao , Liu Jingquan
Published: June 2023

Flexible energy storage device is one of the most critical components as power source for wearable electronics. The emergence of MXenes, a growing family of 2D nanomaterials, has demonstrated a brand‐new possibility for flexible energy storage. However, the fabrication of MXene films with satisfactory mechanical, electrical, and electrochemical reliabilities remains challenging due to the weak interlayer interactions and self‐restacking of MXene sheets. Sequential bridging of polydopamine/polyethyleneimine‐functionalized (PDA/PEI)‐coated MXene sheets to induce synergistically covalent and hydrogen binding connections of MXene‐based films is demonstrated here. By interrupting self‐hydrogen bonding and π–π stacking interactions, the introduction of long‐chain PEI can not only inhibit the massive aggregation of PDA, but also improve the continuity of the interconnection network of PDA/PEI between MXene layers. Hence, the as‐prepared MXene/PDA/PEI composite film displays high mechanical strength (≈366 MPa) which achieves 12‐fold improvement compared with pure MXene film, as well as superior energy storage capability (≈454 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1) and rate performance of ≈48% at 10 000 mV s−1. This modulation of inserted polymer between MXene layers can provide an avenue for assembling high performance MXene films, and can even be extended to the fabrication of other 2D platelets for varied applications.
Regulating Li‐Ion Transport through Ultrathin Molecular Membrane to Enable High‐Performance All‐Solid‐State–Battery
Authors: Rajendran Sathish , George Antony , Tang Zian , Neumann Christof , Turchanin Andrey , Arava Leela Mohana Reddy
Published: June 2023

Solid‐state lithium metal batteries with garnet‐type electrolyte provide several advantages over conventional lithium‐ion batteries, especially for safety and energy density. However, a few grand challenges such as the propagation of Li dendrites, poor interfacial contact between the solid electrolyte and the electrodes, and formation of lithium carbonate during ambient exposure over the solid‐state electrolyte prevent the viability of such batteries. Herein, an ultrathin sub‐nanometer porous carbon nanomembrane (CNM) is employed on the surface of solid‐state electrolyte (SSE) that increases the adhesion of SSE with electrodes, prevents lithium carbonate formation over the surface, regulates the flow of Li‐ions, and blocks any electronic leakage. The sub‐nanometer scale pores in CNM allow rapid permeation of Li‐ions across the electrode–electrolyte interface without the presence of any liquid medium. Additionally, CNM suppresses the propagation of Li dendrites by over sevenfold up to a current density of 0.7 mA cm−2 and enables the cycling of all‐solid‐state batteries at low stack pressure of 2 MPa using LiFePO4 cathode and Li metal anode. The CNM provides chemical stability to the solid electrolyte for over 4 weeks of ambient exposure with less than a 4% increase in surface impurities.
Amine–Aldehyde Condensation‐Derived N‐Doped Hard Carbon Microspheres for High‐Capacity and Robust Sodium Storage
Authors: Chen Ran , Li Xinyuan , Cai Congcong , Fan Hao , Deng Yujie , Yu Huogen , Mai Liqiang , Zhou Liang
Published: June 2023

Hard carbon is generally accepted as the choice of anode material for sodium‐ion batteries. However, integrating high capacity, high initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE), and good durability in hard carbon materials remains challenging. Herein, N‐doped hard carbon microspheres (NHCMs) with abundant Na+ adsorption sites and tunable interlayer distance are constructed based on the amine–aldehyde condensation reaction using m‐phenylenediamine and formaldehyde as the precursors. The optimized NHCM‐1400 with a considerable N content (4.64%) demonstrates a high ICE (87%), high reversible capacity with ideal durability (399 mAh g−1 at 30 mA g−1 and 98.5% retention over 120 cycles), and decent rate capability (297 mAh g−1 at 2000 mA g−1). In situ characterizations elucidate the adsorption–intercalation‐filling sodium storage mechanism of NHCMs. Theoretical calculation reveals that the N‐doping decreases the Na+ adsorption energy on hard carbon.
Engineering Interfacial Built‐in Electric Field in Polymetallic Phosphide Heterostructures for Superior Supercapacitors and Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Hu Ruiyuan , Jiao Lei , Liang Hongjian , Feng Zhifang , Gao Bin , Wang Xiao‐Feng , Song Xue‐Zhi , Liu Li‐Zhao , Tan Zhenquan
Published: June 2023

Herein, a patterned rod‐like CoP@NiCoP core‐shell heterostructure is designed to consist of CoP nanowires cross‐linked with NiCoP nanosheets in tight strings. The interfacial interaction within the heterojunction between the two components generates a built‐in electric field that adjusts the interfacial charge state and create more active sites, accelerating the charge transfer and improving supercapacitor and electrocatalytic performance. The unique core‐shell structure suppresses the volume expansion during charging and discharging, achieving excellent stability. As a result, CoP@NiCoP exhibits a high specific capacitance of 2.9 F cm−2 at a current density of 3 mA cm−2 and a high ion diffusion rate (Dion is 2.95 × 10−14 cm2 s−1) during charging/discharging. The assembled asymmetric supercapacitor CoP@NiCoP//AC exhibits a high energy density of 42.2 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 126.5 W kg−1 and excellent stability with a capacitance retention rate of 83.8% after 10 000 cycles. Furthermore, the modulated effect induced by the interfacial interaction also endows the self‐supported electrode with excellent electrocatalytic HER performance with an overpotential of 71 mV at 10 mA cm−2. This research may provide a new perspective on the generation of built‐in electric field through the rational design of heterogeneous structures for improving the electrochemical and electrocatalytical performance.
Investigating the effects of channelization in the Silala River: A review of the implementation of a coupled MIKE‐11 and MIKE‐SHE modeling system
Authors: Lagos Magdalena Sofía , Muñoz José Francisco , Suárez Francisco Ignacio , Fuenzalida María José , Yáñez‐Morroni Gonzalo , Sanzana Pedro
Published: June 2023

A dispute between Chile and Bolivia regarding the status and use of the waters of the Silala River resulted in proceedings before the International Court of Justice, initiated in 2016. The magnitude of the effect of historical channelization in Bolivia on surface water flows emerged as a major point of disagreement. Based on modeling by the Danish Hydraulic Institute (DHI), using the MIKE‐SHE and MIKE‐11 modeling systems, Bolivia suggested initially that the channels had increased surface flow by 30%–40% and later by 11%–33%. In the opinion of Chile's international experts, these effects would be small. This paper reviews the use of DHI's models by Bolivia and, subsequently, by Chile. Concerns about Bolivia's modeling raised by Chile included the selection of boundary conditions, inconsistent use of the two models for different scenarios, the use of inconsistent topographies for different scenarios, unexplained additions of water and numerical instabilities affecting the results. To investigate these discrepancies, additional simulations were performed by Chile. DHI's MIKE‐SHE and MIKE‐11 models were used for all scenarios, with consistent topography, spring and surface water flow representation. Numerical instabilities were reduced by adjustment of time steps and channel topography. These simulations showed that removing the channels reduces surface flow by a maximum of 3.5 L/s, or 2.4%. The sum of the groundwater and surface water outflow decreases by 2.6 L/s or 1.0%. This small decrease lies within the modeling error but is consistent with the expected effect of minor changes in evaporation.

This article is categorized under:

Science of Water > Hydrological Processes

Human Water > Rights to Water

Science of Water > Methods
A Digital Shadow Reference Model for Worldwide Production Labs
Authors: Michael Judith , Koren István , Dimitriadis Iraklis , Fulterer Judith , Gannouni Aymen , Heithoff Malte , Hermann Annkristin , Hornberg Katharina , Kröger Moritz , Sapel Patrick , Schäfer Niklas , Theissen-Lipp Johannes , Decker Stefan , Hopmann Christian , Jarke Matthias , Rumpe Bernhard , Schmitt Robert H. , Schuh Günther
Published: June 2023

Due to their growing amount and heterogeneity, we need a precise and standardized understanding about the foundation, structure, and forms of aggregation and especially the use of data and models within the production domain. Our aim is to investigate how to model data elements and static and dynamic relationships as well as their physical resources in the IoP, in a cross-disciplinary life cycle spanning cooperation as a basis for information management, meeting all technical, scientific-ethical, and legal framework conditions. The core solution for this challenge is the use of an adequate set of modeling techniques, transformations, and their integration with digital shadows. This chapter provides a deep insight into relevant concepts that constitute a digital shadow, link it to their semantics defined by appropriate metamodels, and discuss the data and models a digital shadow consists of in four use cases. We show a method to derive digital shadows and introduce their life cycle in relation to the product life cycle. These concepts are the foundation for data and model sharing within digital shadows applicable for worldwide production labs.
From a Liquid Society, Through Technological Imagination, to Beyond the Knowledge Society
Authors: Giovenale Anna Maria
Published: June 2023

The paper aims to introduce the Proceedings of the Conference “Technological Imagination in the Green and Digital Transition”, starting from the initial idea. The Scientific Community has been invited to propose visions of technological imagination, in a time of great uncertainty and fragility, so that they could be subjected to a highly interesting analysis. The theme of “fragile” cities and habitats highlights the necessary transition from liquid society beyond the knowledge society. For the purposes of conference, it was noted that these themes, each with its own in-depth considerations, are to be found, thanks to the different contributions, in all of the various sessions. The Conclusions are to upgrade national and international research systems and to change the training modalities.
An Innovative Multi-objective Optimization Digital Workflow for Social Housing Deep Energy Renovation Design Process
Authors: Ciardiello Adriana , Dell’Olmo Jacopo , Rosso Federica , Pastore Lorenzo Mario , Ferrero Marco , Salata Ferdinando
Published: June 2023

Nowadays, the energy retrofit of the building sector is identified as a major instrument toward a climate-neutral Europe by 2050. In accordance with the European Renovation Wave program, deep energy renovations are needed, starting from public and less efficient buildings. Furthermore, the renovation of the social housing building stock is also an important response to energy poverty, as it could contribute safeguarding health and well-being of vulnerable citizens. In particular, buildings from the 1960–1980, which constitute a large portion of cities, often have high energy demand and low indoor comfort because most of them have been built before energy-efficiency regulations. In this context, the paper aims to propose a multi-objective approach toward energy renovation of the social housing building stock, by means of an innovative digital workflow. The objective functions are minimizing energy consumption, CO2 emissions, investment, and operational costs. Toward these contrasting objectives, numerous passive strategies are taken into account, which are compatible with the considered architecture. The optimal solutions are found by means of a genetic algorithm coupled with energy performance simulation software. The methodology is applied and verified on a significant and relevant case study, pertaining to the social housing building stock of Rome, Italy (Mediterranean climate). The outputs of the workflow are a set of optimal solutions among which to choose the fittest one depending on the need of the different stakeholders. The proposed multi-objective approach allows reducing the energy consumption for heating by 31% and for cooling by 17% and the CO2 emissions up to 27.4%. The proposed methodology supports designers and policymakers toward an effective building stock renovation, which can answer the urgent energy and environmental targets for the coming decades.
Digital Twin Approach for Maintenance Management
Authors: Lauria Massimo , Azzalin Maria
Published: June 2023

After years of slightest attention to the environment, low productivity, and least rates of technological innovation, the construction sector has started a slow but in-depth review of its statutes and priorities. The ongoing ecological and digital transition opens to new opportunities connected to the implemental policies of Industry 4.0—at now Industry 5.0—and related enabling technologies. Opportunities that strongly reaffirm the need for innovative, responsible, and sustainable governance of the life cycle of buildings, placing it in the new perspective of Digital Twin approach. Starting from this scenario, the paper presents some ongoing upgrade of a maintenance management model expressly aimed at optimizing activities in the operation and maintenance phase from which evident economic, environmental, and social extra costs arise.
Photovoltaic Breakthrough in Architecture: Integration and Innovation Best Practice
Authors: Callegari Guido , Merolla Eleonora , Simeone Paolo
Published: June 2023

In the new context of the trialling and the development of the materials, buildings systems and innovative processes required to meet new challenges posed by environmental transition in Europe and across the globe, the construction sector urgently needs to define more sustainable development models to achieve decarbonisation, as is the case in other sectors. In this context, recent experiences of incorporating photovoltaics into architecture are a clear sign of a change in focus on how systems are integrated into architectural design: a new way of viewing the technological innovation of PV modules which is ever more closely linked to the architectural design right from the initial concept stages. The study we present is based on a critical analysis of the current international state of the art of architectural design incorporating photovoltaics, selecting case studies which illustrate best practice for technological innovation to demonstrate possible scenarios for future developments. Therefore, all the principle approaches identified by the international research will be described as well as the impact that these technological developments are having on architectural style and quality of life in cities. With regard to the aesthetic and formal properties that are the dominant feature of recent practice for the integration of photovoltaics, the study will highlight further areas of research with a view to defining a component of the building shell in which the generation of energy from renewable sources represents just one of the potential components of a system integrated into the architectural style. In addition, the intention is to demonstrate that the architectural designs analysed can be considered to be the result of a close relationship between designers, applied research and the industrial sector; therefore, technological innovation of photovoltaic products will inevitably be linked to a deeper and fundamental innovation of processes leading to these results.
The New Technological Paradigm in the Post-digital Era. Three Convergent Paths Between Creative Action and Computational Tools
Authors: Bianchi Roberto
Published: June 2023

The current evolutionary situation of the post-digital era is influenced by a scientific research based on an almost unconditioned technological positivism and requires a more agile a flexible built environment, adapted to the unpredictable changes and transformations of our planet. The building sector is going through an important evolutionary phase, mainly characterized by the use of new digital technologies which have considerable impact on the organizational dimension of the design and implementation, in order to adopt innovative solutions with the least environmental impact. While the architect is replaced by machines in the worksite, the use of digital technological instruments needs a new approach toward the project and the building procedures. Within this change, the draftsman, besides engaging with multidisciplinary specialized skills ranging from computational engineering to biotechnologies and neuro-sciences, has to be proactively able to control the current space, time, and technological processes which are offered by evolved and complex computerized instruments. These go beyond formality to create new constructive realities, which are being experimented. The inorganic computational instruments of the post-digital era afford the “Total Designer” a new opportunity to rethink composition not only in terms of productivity and efficiency but to also gain a deeper understanding of empathy and experience. It is pertinent in this situation to consider the possible convergence between design thinking and technical thinking based on the development of digital algorithms. With the help of some research and case studies, this contribution analyzes the relationship between creative action and computational instrument through three main directions—representation/simulation, communication/perception, and manufacture/materialization—that encompass the essential elements characterizing the role of the designer, a draftsman that is not only aware but sensitive to modern technology.