bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Fe‐3d Electron Delocalization by Asymmetric Fe–Cu Diatomic Configurations for Efficient Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Liu Yarong , Yuan Shuai , Sun Caiting , Wang Changli , Liu Xiangjian , Lv Zunhang , Liu Rui , Meng Yazi , Yang Wenxiu , Feng Xiao , Wang Bo
Published: October 2023

Precisely designing asymmetric diatomic configurations and studying their electronic regulation effect for improving the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performance are important for anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs). Here, a Fe, Cu co‐doped 2D crystalline IISERP‐MOF27 nanosheet derived FeN3O‐CuN4 diatomic site nanocatalyst (named as FeCu‐NC) is synthesized for the cathodes of AEMFCs. Thanks to the optimal electronic structure of FeN3O‐CuN4 in the FeCu‐NC catalyst, it shows enhanced half‐wave potential (0.910 V), turnover frequency (0.165e s−1 site−1), and decreased activation energy (19.96 kJ mol−1) in KOH. The FeCu‐NC‐based AEMFC achieves extremely high kinetic current (0.138 A cm−2 at 0.9 V) and rated power density (1.09 W cm−2), surpassing the best‐reported transition metal‐based cathodes. Density functional theory calculations further demonstrate that the Cu‐N4 can break the localization of Fe‐3d orbitals, accelerate the electron transport, and optimize the OH adsorption, thus facilitating the ORR process.
Highly Efficient Photo Rechargeable Supercapacitor based on Ambipolar Interface of Graphitic Carbon Nitride and MXene
Authors: Kumar Sumana , Mondal Anindita , Panwar Vinod , Shekhawat Roopali , Misra Abha
Published: October 2023

Dual‐functional materials for both the optically and the electrochemically active electrode enable efficient direct storage of solar energy into electrical energy. A photo rechargeable supercapacitor is developed using an ambipolar interface of MXene (Ti3C2TX) and protonated graphitic carbon nitride under light illumination. An extraordinarily large increase of 1960 % in the electrochemical capacitance is measured under the light illumination (420 nm) compared to its dark capacitance. Ambipolar interface induces an anomalous increase in the capacitance at an ultra‐high scan rate of 1.5×105 mV/s under the light illumination. Moreover, the photo‐assisted, voltage of ~270 mV is generated in the rechargeable supercapacitor. The extraordinary results are attributed to the attractive interface of oppositely charged MXene and protonated graphitic carbon nitride.
Impact of Nano‐sized Inorganic Fillers on PEO‐based Electrolytes for Potassium Batteries
Authors: Khudyshkina Anna D. , Rauska Ulf‐Christian , Butzelaar Andreas J. , Hoffmann Maxi , Wilhelm Manfred , Theato Patrick , Jeschull Fabian
Published: October 2023

The low melting points of solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) based on the KTFSI electrolyte salt allow comparatively low operation temperatures (below 50 °C) for K‐ion batteries, unlike their Li or Na counterparts. Unfortunately, for this reason the electrolyte is also rendered mechanically unsuitable in its function to act as a cell separator. Therefore, in this work the use of inorganic nanofillers (Al2O3 and SiO2) is explored with the aim to improve rheological, thermal and cation transport properties of the resulting polymer composite electrolytes. Their electrochemical properties were further examined in K‐metal symmetrical cells and K‐metal/SPE/K2Fe[Fe(CN)6] cells and compared to corresponding liquid electrolyte systems. As a result of particle‐polymer interactions, filler‐containing SPEs showed higher degrees of crystallinity combined with filler polymer interaction and thus improved mechanical integrity in the relevant temperature range of 25–55 °C, while maintaining similar ionic conductivities than a filler‐free sample above the melting temperature. Although plating‐stripping experiments in symmetrical cell setups suggested high cell resistances for various compositions and in some cases even rapid cell failure, Al2O3‐based SPEs generally displayed high capacity retention when cycled against a positive electrode (here Prussian blue analogue K2Fe[Fe(CN)6]) over 100–160 cycles and possibly beyond.
An Electron/Ion Dual Conductive Integrated Cathode Using Cationic/Anionic Redox for High‐Energy‐Density All‐Solid‐State Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Pan Wenli , Yamamoto Kentaro , Matsunaga Toshiyuki , Watanabe Toshiki , Kumar Mukesh , Thakur Neha , Uchiyama Tomoki , Uesugi Masayuki , Takeuchi Akihisa , Sakuda Atsushi , Hayashi Akitoshi , Tatsumisago Masahiro , Uchimoto Yoshiharu
Published: October 2023

All‐solid‐state lithium‐sulfur batteries (ASSLSB), composed of sulfur cathode and lithium metal anode with high theoretical capacity, have a potentially higher energy density by weight than a typical lithium‐ion battery (LIB). However, due to insulating sulfur, a relatively large proportion of electronic (carbon) and ionic (solid electrolyte) conductors are mixed for cathode fabrication, leading to inferior practical capacity. Herein, we report a novel integrated cathode Li2S‐LiI‐MoS2 which has relatively high electronic and ionic conductivities (the order of 10−4 S cm−1) without any carbon and solid electrolyte. The ASSLSB with integrated Li2S‐LiI‐MoS2 cathode delivers a remarkably high energy density of 1020 Wh kg−1 at the cathode level at room temperature. By applying precise X‐ray diffraction, pair distribution function analysis and X‐ray computed tomography, it is found that the formation of an ionic conducting phase composed mainly of LiI during discharge is responsible for the high rate capability. Furthermore, X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) has also revealed the charge compensation mechanism and ascertained the involvement of both Mo 3d and S 3p orbitals during the charging and discharging process. It is believed the strategy will pave the way for developing high practical energy density at room temperature for all‐solid‐state batteries.
New risk stratification for adjuvant nivolumab for high‐risk muscle‐invasive urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Saito Takafumi , Kanao Kent , Matsumoto Kazuhiro , Fukumoto Keishiro , Igarashi Daisuke , Takahashi Takayuki , Kaneko Go , Shirotake Suguru , Nishimoto Koshiro , Mizuno Ryuichi , Ishida Masaru , Hara Satoshi , Oya Mototsugu , Oyama Masafumi
Published: October 2023

Objectives

We aim to evaluate the risk of recurrence after neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radical cystectomy, particularly in ypT2 disease in patients with urothelial carcinoma, because it is not clear if all eligible patients with high‐risk muscle‐invasive urothelial carcinoma should be treated with adjuvant nivolumab.

Materials and Methods

We analysed the radiological and clinicopathological features, including cT and ypT stages, of 197 patients who had undergone two to four cycles of cisplatin‐based neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radical cystectomy without adjuvant chemotherapy. We stratified the risk of postoperative recurrence by these factors.

Results

The median observation period was 29.6 (interquartile range, 11.4–71.7) months, and disease recurrence was observed in 58 patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that ypT stage (P = 0.019) and lymphovascular invasion (P = 0.015) were independent risk factors for postoperative recurrence. The ypT2 group (n = 38) had significantly better recurrence‐free survival than the ypT3 group (n = 41) (median recurrence‐free survival: not reached vs. 13.4 months, respectively, P = 0.005). In ypT2 disease, the cT2 and ypT2 group (n = 15), which was diagnosed as cT2 preoperatively and then diagnosed as ypT2 postoperatively, had significantly better recurrence‐free survival than the cT3/4 and ypT2 group (n = 23) (median recurrence‐free survival: not reached vs. 63.1 months, respectively, P = 0.034). There was no significant difference in recurrence‐free survival between the ypT ≤ 1 (n = 106) and the cT2 and ypT2 groups (median recurrence‐free survival: not reached in both, P = 0.962).

Conclusion

Patients with cT2 and ypT2 stage have a relatively low risk of recurrence and thus have a lower need for adjuvant nivolumab, particularly those with ypT2.
Exploring nutrient supplementation and bioprocess optimization to improve the production of lentiviral vectors in serum‐free medium suspension cultures
Authors: Vaz Tiago A. , Rodrigues Ana F. , Coroadinha Ana S.
Published: October 2023

The use of lentiviral vectors (LV) in gene therapy has been growing in recent years. To meet the increasing clinical demand, LV production platforms will benefit from improved productivity and scalability to enable cost‐effective manufacture of LV‐based therapies. Here we report the adaptation of 293T cells to serum‐free suspension cultures and the improvement of LV yields through transfection parameters optimization, process intensification and medium supplementation with nutrient boosters. Cells were sequentially adapted to different serum‐free culture media, transfection parameters were optimized and the two best‐performing conditions were selected to explore process intensification by increasing cell density at the time of transfection. LV production at higher cell densities increased volumetric titers up to 12‐fold and lipid supplementation was the most efficient metabolic optimization strategy further enhancing LV productivity by 3‐fold. Furthermore, cell concentration was identified and validated as an important source of transfection variability impairing cellular uptake of DNA polyplexes, impacting transfection efficiency and reducing LV titers down to 6‐fold. This work contributes to improving LV‐based gene therapy by establishing new scalable manufacturing platforms and providing key metabolic insights, unveiling important bioreaction parameters to improve vector yields.
Computational assessment of lipid production in Rhodosporidium toruloides in two‐stage and one‐stage batch bioprocesses
Authors: Castañeda María Teresita , Nuñez Sebastián , Jamilis Martín , De Battista Hernán
Published: October 2023

Oleaginous yeasts are promising platforms for microbial lipids production as a renewable and sustainable alternative to vegetable oils in biodiesel production. In this paper, a thorough in silico assessment of lipid production in batch cultivation by Rhodosporidium toruloides was developed. By means of dynamic flux balance analysis, the traditional two‐stage bioprocess (TSB) performed by the native strain was contrasted with one‐stage bioprocess (OSB) using four designed strains obtained by gene knockout strategies. Lipid titer, yield, content, and productivity were analyzed at different initial C/N ratios as relevant performance indicators used in bioprocesses. By weighting these indicators, a global lipid efficiency metric (GLEM) was defined to consider different scenarios. Under simulated conditions, designed strains for lipid overproduction in OSB outperformed the TSB in terms of lipid title (up to threefold), lipid yield (up to 2.4‐fold), lipid content (up to 2.8‐fold, with a maximum of 76%), and productivity (up to 1.3‐fold), depending on C/N ratios. Using these efficiency parameters and the proposed GLEM, the process of selecting the most suitable candidates for lipid production could be carried out before experimental assays. This methodology holds the potential to be extended to other oleaginous microorganisms and diverse strain design techniques.
Elucidating the effects of microbubble pinch‐off dynamics on mammalian cell viability
Authors: McRae Oliver , Walls Peter L. L. , Natarajan Venkatesh , Antoniou Chris , Bird James C.
Published: October 2023

In the biotechnology industry, ensuring the health and viability of mammalian cells, especially Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells, plays a significant role in the successful production of therapeutic agents. These cells are typically cultivated in aerated bioreactors, where they encounter fluid stressors from rapidly deforming bubbles. These stressors can disrupt essential biological processes and potentially lead to cell death. However, the impact of these transient, elevated stressors on cell viability remains elusive. In this study, we first employ /cgqamicrofluidics to expose CHO cells near to bubbles undergoing pinch‐off, subsequently collecting and assaying the cells to quantify the reduction in viability. Observing a significant impact, we set out to understand this phenomenon. We leverage computational fluid dynamics and numerical particle tracking to map the stressor field history surrounding a rapidly deforming bubble. Separately, we expose CHO cells to a known stressor level in a flow constriction device, collecting and assaying the cells to quantify the reduction in viability. By integrating the numerical data and results from the flow constriction device experiments, we develop a predictive model for cell viability reduction. We validate this model by comparing its predictions to the earlier microfluidic results, observing good agreement. Our findings provide critical insights into the relationship between bubble‐induced fluid stressors and mammalian cell viability, with implications for bioreactor design and cell culture protocol optimization in the biotechnology sector.
Neuropsychiatric complications and associated management in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors: An All of Us study
Authors: Agapito Ivann , Ng Ding Quan , Milam Joel , Ziogas Argyrios , Anton‐Culver Hoda , Chan Alexandre
Published: October 2023

Background

About 4.5% of new cancer cases affect adolescent and young adult aged between 15 and 39 years in the United States (US). However, the effect of neuropsychiatric conditions on long‐term adolescent and young adult cancer (AYAC) survivors has not been formally investigated. Thus, the impact and management of late neuropsychiatric complications in AYAC survivors compared to non‐cancer‐matched controls (NCMC) in the US were evaluated using the All of Us (AoU) Research Program.

Methods

Participants in the AoU Controlled Tier Dataset (v6) diagnosed with cancer between ages 15 and 39 were identified from electronic health records and surveys. AYAC survivors were matched with NCMC using the optimal pair‐matching algorithm at a 1:4 ratio. Data on past diagnoses, current follow‐up care, and treatment patterns of neuropsychiatric complications were collected.

Results

Analysis was performed on 788 AYAC survivors and 3152 NCMC. AYAC survivors, with an average of 8.8 years since their first cancer diagnosis, were more likely than NCMC to receive a diagnosis of neuropathy, memory loss and epilepsy (p  < 0.001). Survivors also had a higher rate of follow‐up care and treatment utilization for these neurological conditions compared to NCMC (p  < 0.05). Treatment utilization was highest among survivors receiving care for epilepsy (88%), and lower for neuropathy (70%), memory loss (61%), and chronic fatigue (59%).

Conclusions

This large study reveals that AYAC survivors, on average 9 years after their cancer diagnosis, require more frequent follow‐up care for neurological complications compared to non‐cancer individuals. However, the management of neuropathy, memory loss, and chronic fatigue is hindered by a lack of mechanism‐based effective therapies.
Role of eosinophilia in patients with recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated with nivolumab: Prediction of immune‐related adverse events and favorable outcome
Authors: Ueki Yushi , Ohshima Shusuke , Omata Jo , Yokoyama Yusuke , Takahashi Takeshi , Shodo Ryusuke , Yamazaki Keisuke , Horii Arata
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) are prognostic factors for patients on nivolumab. However, predictors of irAEs have not yet been identified. We aimed to investigate the predictors of irAEs occurrence and nivolumab discontinuation due to irAEs.

Methods

Sixty‐two patients with recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma received nivolumab therapy between June 2017 and December 2020. Treatment outcome was compared between the groups with or without irAEs. The irAE (+) group was further divided by nivolumab discontinuation. Progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were compared between the groups. Predictors of irAE occurrence were analyzed.

Results

Twenty‐one patients (33.9%) developed irAEs, and six (28.6%) discontinued nivolumab due to severe irAEs. The irAE (+) group had significantly longer PFS and OS than the irAE (−) group (median PFS, 12.7 vs. 1.9 months; median OS, 33.1 vs. 12.8 months). The treatment outcomes in the discontinuation group were comparable to those in the non‐discontinuation group. The maximum absolute eosinophil count (AEC) during nivolumab therapy was significantly higher in the irAE (+) group than in the irAE (−) group (548.8 vs. 182) and higher in the discontinuation group than in the non‐discontinuation group (729.3 vs. 368.6). The receiver operating characteristic curve showed that the maximum AEC had a moderate‐to‐high accuracy for predicting irAE occurrence (area under the curve [AUC], 0.757) and nivolumab discontinuation (AUC, 0.893).

Discussion

Monitoring AEC during nivolumab therapy may be useful in predicting irAE occurrence, nivolumab discontinuation, and disease prognosis.
Trends in medical care utilization in patients with cancer: An analysis of real‐world data in a tertiary hospital in Korea, 2014–2019
Authors: Won Jung‐Hyun , Chung Tae Kyu , Lee Joochul , Yoon Sangwon , Jeon Yoomin , Lee Howard
Published: October 2023

Background

Rising costs of cancer treatments challenge even areas with universal health coverage. There's a need to assess current medical care utilization trends among patients with cancer to guide public health policy, resource allocation, and set informed healthcare goals.

Methods

We analyzed the latest trends in medical care utilization by cancer patients in four areas—drugs, radiation therapy (RT), surgery, and diagnostic procedures—using clinical databases extracted from electronic medical records of a tertiary hospital in Korea between 2014 and 2019. Compound adjusted growth rates (CAGR) were computed to capture the annual growth over the study period.

Results

A total of 74,285 cancer patients were identified, with 40.3% (29,962), 14.2% (10,577), 31.1% (23,066), and 92.6% (68,849) of patients having received at least one anticancer agent, RT, surgery, and diagnostic procedure, respectively, over the period. We observed a 1.7‐fold increase in the use of targeted · immune‐oncology agents (from 6.8% to 11.6%) and a 21‐fold increase (from 3.0% in 2014 to 65.7%) in intensity‐modulated RT (IMRT) use over the period. In contrast, we observed a continuous decrease in the proportion of patients who underwent surgical treatment from 12.2% in 2014 to 10.9% in 2019. This decrease was particularly noticeable in patients with colon cancer (from 28.5% to 24.2%) and liver cancer (from 4.1% to 2.9%).

Conclusion

From 2014 to 2019, there was a significant rise in the use of targeted · immune‐oncology agents and IMRT, alongside a decline in surgeries. While targeted · immune‐oncology agents and IMRT may offer promising outcomes, their financial impact and potential for overuse necessitate careful oversight and long‐term cost‐effectiveness studies.
Predictive models of long‐term survival outcomes following radical cystectomy
Authors: Ohtsu Akira , Arai Seiji , Fujizuka Yuji , Miyazawa Yoshiyuki , Nomura Masashi , Sekine Yoshitaka , Koike Hidekazu , Matsui Hiroshi , Shibata Yasuhiro , Ito Kazuto , Suzuki Kazuhiro
Published: October 2023

Background

Identifying the likelihood of life‐threatening recurrence after radical cystectomy by reliable and user‐friendly predictive models remains an unmet need in the clinical management of invasive bladder cancer.

Methods

A total of 204 consecutive patients undergoing open radical cystectomy (ORC) for bladder cancer were retrospectively enrolled between May 2005 and August 2020. Clinicopathological and peri‐ORC therapeutic data were extracted from clinical records. We explored predictive factors that significantly affected the primary endpoint of overall survival (OS) and secondary endpoints of cancer‐specific survival (CSS) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS).

Results

During a median follow‐up of 3.9 years, 42 (20.6%) and 10 (4.9%) patients died due to bladder cancer and other causes, respectively. Five‐year RFS, CSS, and OS were 66.5%, 77.6%, and 75.4%, respectively. Pathological T and N categories and lymphovascular invasion (LVI) significantly affected RFS by Cox regression analysis. Accordingly, clinical T and pathological N categories and LVI significantly affected CSS. Clinical T and pathological N categories, LVI, age, and ORC tumor grade significantly affected OS. Based on the assessment score for each independent risk factor, we developed the Gunma University Oncology Study Group (GUOSG) score, which predicts RFS, CSS, and OS. The GUOSG score classified four groups for RFS, three for CSS, and five for OS, with statistically significant distribution for nearly all comparisons.

Conclusions

The GUOSG model is helpful to show individualized prognosis and functions as a risk‐stratified historical cohort for assessing the lifelong efficacy of new salvage treatment regimens.
Discovery of 14‐3‐3 PPI Stabilizers by Extension of an Amidine‐Substituted Thiophene Fragment
Authors: Wu Qi , Centorrino Federica , Guillory Xavier , Wolter Madita , Ottmann Christian , Cossar Peter J. , Brunsveld Luc
Published: October 2023

Protein‐protein interaction (PPI) modulation is a promising approach in drug discovery with the potential to expand the ‘druggable’ proteome and develop new therapeutic strategies. While there have been significant advancements in methodologies for developing PPI inhibitors, there is a relative scarcity of literature describing the ‘bottom‐up’ development of PPI stabilizers (Molecular Glues). The hub protein 14‐3‐3 and its interactome provide an excellent platform for exploring conceptual approaches to PPI modulation, including evolution of chemical matter for Molecular Glues. In this study, we employed a fragment extension strategy to discover stabilizers for the complex of 14‐3‐3 protein and an Estrogen Receptor alpha‐derived peptide (ERα). A focused library of analogues derived from an amidine‐substituted thiophene fragment enhanced the affinity of the 14‐3‐3/ERα complex up to 6.2‐fold. Structure‐activity relationship (SAR) analysis underscored the importance of the newly added, aromatic side chain with a certain degree of rigidity. X‐ray structural analysis revealed a unique intermolecular π–π stacking binding mode of the most active analogues, resulting in the simultaneous binding of two molecules to the PPI binding pocket. Notably, analogue 11 displayed selective stabilization of the 14‐3‐3/ERα complex.
Veneer crowns in anterior endodontically‐treated teeth: A case report with 1‐year follow‐up
Authors: Karimi Mandana , Hashemikamangar Sedigheh Sadat , Farahani Shakiba
Published: October 2023

Key Clinical Message

Veneer crowns can be used in anterior endodontically‐treated teeth with light occlusal force and enamel substrate consideration as a more conservative approach instead of conventional all ceramic crowns.

All‐ceramic anterior crowns and veneers have been used widely in dentistry with high clinical success rate. The development of new reinforced ceramics in recent years has led to more use of extended defect‐oriented preparation designs, that is, extended veneers, instead of full crown preparations which are less invasive. A veneer crown is simply a veneer that covers the entire tooth. The preparation preserves remaining enamel and uses a conservative preparation design. Its indication should be carefully raised taking into consideration various factors. The preparation design is crucial to ensure longevity of such restoration. The balance is between sufficient preparation for the material thickness and adequate strength against occlusal load and the enamel preservation. A 24‐year‐old man referred to the restorative department of the Dentistry School of Tehran University of Medical Sciences complaining from his poor esthetics in the maxillary incisors. In clinical and radiographic evaluation, he had open bite, composite discoloration due to corrosion of the pre‐fabricated posts in all four incisors, a periapical lesion in tooth 21 and under‐filled root canal therapy in tooth 22. All four posts and composite restorations were removed and teeth 21 and 22 were retreated. Although the amount of remaining tooth tissue was low, it had enough enamel thickness, especially in the buccal area. Taking into consideration this mixed enamel and dentin substrate, endodontics access, esthetics needs and canine guidance occlusion with no parafunction history, bonded lithium disilicate veneer crowns were selected to restore the maxillary incisors. A 12‐month follow‐up showed promising clinical (healthy gingival tissue and successful restorations) and radiographic (reduced periapical lesion) outcomes.
Unusual cause of myocardial infarction following transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Shah Neeraj , Nifong L. Wiley
Published: October 2023

Key Clinical Message

Left coronary artery embolism from aortic valve leaflet tissue mass is a rare but potentially life‐threatening complication following transcatheter aortic valve replacement. It is important for interventional cardiologists to be aware of this rare complication for rapid identification and prompt treatment which is the key to a successful outcome.

An 81‐year‐old female presented for elective transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for severe low‐flow low‐gradient aortic stenosis. Immediately post‐procedure, she developed unexplained, persistent hypotension. There was no bleeding. There was no aortic injury. Activated clotting time was in therapeutic range. Coronary angiography revealed hazy filling defects in left anterior descending and left circumflex. Intravascular ultrasound showed heterogeneous, hypoechoic mass with mild calcification consistent with embolized valve leaflet tissue. This was treated with emergent percutaneous coronary intervention with excellent results. Left coronary artery embolism from aortic valve leaflet tissue is a rare, but potentially life‐threatening complication following TAVR. Prompt recognition is key to a successful outcome.
Layered Double Hydroxide Nanosheets: Synthesis Strategies and Applications in the Field of Energy Conversion
Authors: Wang Yindong , Ying Zhixuan , Gao Yushuan , Shi Le
Published: October 2023

In recent years, layered double hydroxides (LDH) nanosheets have garnered substantial attention as intriguing inorganic anionic layered clay materials. These nanosheets have captured the attention of researchers due to their unique physicochemical properties. This review aims to showcase the latest advancements in laboratory research concerning LDH nanosheets, with a specific emphasis on their methods of preparation. This review provides detailed insights into the factors influencing the anionic conductivity of LDH, along with delineating the applications of LDH nanosheets in the realm of energy conversion. Notably, the review highlights the crucial role of LDH nanosheets in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), a vital process in water splitting and diverse electrochemical applications. The review emphasizes the significant potential of LDH nanosheets in enhancing supercapacitor technology, owing to their high surface area and exceptional charge storage capacity. Additionally, it elucidates the prospective application of LDH nanosheets as anion exchange membranes in anion exchange membrane fuel cells, potentially revolutionizing fuel cell performance through improved efficiency and stability facilitated by enhanced ion transport properties.
Racial disparities and referral for genetic counseling
Authors: Yeku Oladapo O.
Published: October 2023

Despite the increased availability of tumor mutation testing and guideline‐based recommendations for managing newly diagnosed, advanced, or recurrent endometrial cancer, mortality in minority and underrepresented women continues to rise. Disparities in testing, referral to clinical genetics, and participation in clinical trials are persistent contributors to poor outcomes in this patient population.
Direct Conversion of CO2into Alcohols Using Cu‐Based Zeolite Catalysts
Authors: Iltsiou Dimitra , Mielby Jerrik , Kegnæs Søren
Published: October 2023

The direct hydrogenation of CO2into alcohols is an attractive but challenging catalytic reaction. Herein, it was shown that Cu nanoparticles supported on MFI and BEA zeolites have high catalytic activity and selectivity for converting CO2into ethanol and isopropanol. Furthermore, we investigated the effect of introducing mesopores via carbon templating and encapsulating the Cu nanoparticles via subsequent recrystallization. All the catalysts were characterized by N2physisorption, XRD, SEM, TEM, NH3TPD, XPS, and XRF, before we tested them in a high‐pressure water‐filled autoclave with a constant partial pressure of CO2(1 MPa) and an increasing partial pressure of H2(3–5 MPa). In general, the mesoporous zeolite catalysts resulted in a higher CO2conversion and selectivity toward ethanol than their non‐mesoporous equivalents, while the recrystallized catalyst with encapsulated Cu nanoparticles had a higher selectivity towards isopropanol. For example, Cu@m‐S1 showed the highest isopropanol productivity among the recrystallized mesoporous zeolites, corresponding to 20.51 mmol g−1 h−1under the given reaction conditions. These findings highlight the importance of mesopores in zeolite catalysts for CO2hydrogenation to alcohols and point a new direction for further research and development.
Reduced TiO2 Nanotubes/Silk Fibroin/ZnO as a Promising Hybrid Antibacterial Coating
Authors: Păun Angela Gabriela , Popescu Simona , Ungureanu Camelia , Trusca Roxana , Pirvu Cristian
Published: October 2023

The current research aims to elucidate the influence of reduction process of TiO2 nanostructures on the surface properties of a bioinspired Ti modified implant, considering that the interface between a biomaterial surface and the living tissue plays an important role for this interaction. The production of reduced TiO2 nanotubes (RNT) with lower band gap is optimized and their performance is compared with those of simple TiO2 nanotubes (NT). The more conductive surfaces provided by the presence of RNT on Ti, allow a facile deposition of silk fibroin (SF) film using the electrochemical deposition method. This hybrid film is then functionalized with ZnO nanoparticles, to improve the antibacterial effect of the coating. The modified Ti surface is evaluated in terms of surface chemistry, morphology and roughness, wettability, surface energy, surface charge and antibacterial properties. Surface analysis such as SEM, AFM, FTIR and contact angle measurements were performed to obtain topographical features and wettability. FT‐IR analysis confirms that SF was effectively attached to TiO2 nanotubes surfaces. The electrochemical deposition of SF and SF‐ZnO reduced the interior diameter of nanotubes from ~85 nm to approx. 50–60 nm. All modified surfaces have a hydrophilic character.
Structured Cerium–Manganese Catalysts Supported on Nickel Foam for Toluene Oxidation by Electric Internal Heating
Authors: Zhang Bo Yu , Wu Xiao‐Kuan , Gao Jun An , Zhao Hong
Published: October 2023

Structured catalysts are widely used in catalytic oxidation of gaseous pollutants, hot catalysis is usually needed to assist the reaction in the catalytic process. Herein, a Ce‐modified manganese oxide octahedral molecular sieves (Ce‐OMS‐2) structured catalyst supported on foam nickel was prepared through impregnation process. A systematically quantitative testing on the toluene catalytic oxidation effectiveness of this structured catalyst was conducted through catalyst evaluation device, combining a series of characterization methods, such as XRD and SEM, the structure‐activity relationship was established. Assisted with electric internal heating and ozone oxidation environments, this structured catalyst exhibits excellent catalytic oxidation performance for oxidative decomposition of toluene even under high humidity conditions. The results showed that the ozone‐coupled structured nickel foam catalyst increased the decomposition efficiency of toluene from 25 % (without catalyst and heating) to 55 % (with catalyst and without heating) and the electric internal heating can significantly improve the reactivity and moisture resistance of the structured nickel‐foam catalyst, at 90 % RH and 40000 h−1, 50000 ppb O3 and 40 mg/m3 toluene was maintained 100 % catalytic efficiency. The high‐efficiency non‐precious metal‐based electrothermal catalyst prepared herein is expected to have certain enlightenment for the purification of VOCs.
Two New Polar Antimony(III) Tartrates with Unusual Structural Building Units
Authors: Císařová Ivana , Becker Petra , Matulková Irena , Němec Ivan , Němec Petr , Bohatý Ladislav
Published: October 2023

Large single crystals of polar tetragonal thallium antimony(III) tartrate dihydrate, Tl2[Sb2((+)C4H2O6)2]·2H2O, are grown. The crystal structure (s.g. P41), which contains the binuclear complex group [Sb2(C4H2O6)2]2− and dimer groups [Tl2O8(H2O)2], is given, together with vibrational spectra, refractive indices and their dispersion, and an analysis of SHG phase matching possibility and SHG powder measurements. The crystals allow type I phase matching for laser wavelengths ≥ 1.0103 µm. In addition, a new monoclinic (s.g. C2) antimony(III) tartrate of composition Mg[Sb3((+)C4H2O6)2((+)C4H4O6)((+)C4H5O6)]·11H2O and its crystal structure, which contains a novel type of antimony tartrate complex group [Sb3(C4H2O6)2(C4H4O6)(C4H5O6)], is presented.
The New Gatifloxacin‐p‐Coumaric Acid Cocrystalline Form for Enhanced In Vitro Pharmaceutical Properties While Improving Oral Bioavailability and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Ma Kai‐Jie , Li Ze , Bai Run‐Chao , Zhang Hai‐Juan , Zhang Chun , Liu Lu
Published: October 2023

A molecular salification strategy of double majorization and synergistic improvement efficacy has been submitted, aiming at getting utmost out of the advantages of phenolic acid nutrient p‐coumaric acid (CMA) to improve the pharmaceutical properties of antibacterial agent gatifloxacin (GAT). The present strategy applies the saltforming capacity of CMA interacting with GAT to self‐assemble a new molecular salt, thereby improving the in vitro physicochemical performances of GAT and further perfecting its in vivo pharmacokinetics, as well as enhancing the antibacterial effectiveness of GAT. Guided by this strategy, the novel GAT‐phenolic acid nutrient molecular salt, named GAT‐CMA, is directionally prepared with its precise structure analyzed by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. The results show that proton transfer occurs between the piperazine N of GAT and the carboxyl group of CMA, thus altering the intermolecular interaction mode of GAT itself, breaking the relatively stable zwitterionic state, displaying a circular stacking structure dominated by [GAT+‐CMA−], which is conducive to the improvement of GAT's physicochemical properties. Interestingly, the enhanced properties in vitro effectively translate into pharmacokinetic merits in vivo, showing improved bioavailability. More importantly, due to the synergistic antibacterial effect of GAT and CMA, the antibacterial ability of molecular salt has also been effectively enhanced.
Characterization of agronomic traits and genomic diversity in a newly assembled radish core collection
Authors: Huh Sun Mi , Cho Ara , Yim Bomi , Kim Jiin , Jeong Jin Gyu , Jang Hoyeol , Mun Jeong‐Hwan , Yu Hee‐Ju
Published: October 2023

Crop breeding programs are reliant on the genetic diversity of varieties and germplasm collections. Raphanus sativus L. is a root crop species of the Brassicaceae family that accounts for ∼2% of global vegetable production. We recently reported the assembly of a new radish core collection consisting of 125 accessions obtained from worldwide germplasm banks. To develop a comprehensive plant resource for radish research and breeding, we characterized the agronomic traits of 83 accessions and analyzed their genome‐wide DNA variations along with 17 previously analyzed accessions. A total of 14 agronomically important root, leaf, and flower phenotypic traits were examined according to the guidelines of the International Union for the Protection of New Plant Varieties. Chemical diversity in radish roots was investigated by measuring their sugar, glucosinolate, and anthocyanin contents. Through high‐depth whole‐genome resequencing of 100 accessions and multi‐sample genotyping analysis using the Rs2.0 genome assembly as a reference, we identified a total of 796,294 homozygous high‐quality single‐nucleotide polymorphisms. Genetic structural analysis using a neighbor‐joining algorithm and multi‐dimensional scaling analysis of the variations were applied to classify the accessions into three major groups, including 37 and 55 accessions of European and Asian cultivated radishes, respectively, and eight wild radish accessions. For each accession, the mitochondria‐encoded Ogura cytoplasmic male‐sterility determinant orf138 and nuclear fertility restorer PPR‐B genes were reconstructed by reference‐guided assembly. It is anticipated that these genetic diversity and agronomic properties of the radish core collection will facilitate breeding programs to develop new radish cultivars with desirable profiles.
Simulation‐based decision‐making and implementation of tools in hybrid crop breeding pipelines
Authors: Peixoto Marco Antônio , Coelho Igor Ferreira , Leach Kristen A. , Bhering Leonardo L. , Resende Márcio F. R.
Published: October 2023

New technologies have been developed over the last few years aiming to support breeding pipeline optimization for long‐term genetic gains. However, the implementation of these new tools and their impact on any breeding program's budget are not well studied. Here, we compare multiple breeding pipeline strategies accounting for genomic selection and high‐throughput phenotyping (HTP) by means of hybrid gain and cost‐effectiveness. We simulated a hybrid crop breeding program through coalescent theory. We compared two strategies for parental updates and four breeding pipelines: conventional breeding pipeline; conventional breeding pipeline with HTP; conventional breeding pipeline with genomic selection; conventional breeding pipeline with genomic selection and HTP. All analyses were implemented under three different levels of genotype‐by‐environment interaction (G×E) and two trait heritabilities (0.3 and 0.7). Overall, the results show that scenarios with early parental selection perform better than the others. In addition, the implementation of HTP delivered the highest hybrid gain in the long‐term, whereas the implementation of genomic selection seems to be more cost‐effective. We suggest, considering breeding programs with complex trait inheritance and accounting for higher levels of G×E, investing in breeding pipelines accounting for genomic selection as a strategy to create and maintain long‐term hybrid gain. Moreover, considering an unconstrained budget, the investment in both, genomic selection and HTP, represents the best strategy. Hence, these results provide strategies that may aid breeders in optimizing self‐pollination breeding programs.
NeuropsychBrainAge: A biomarker for conversion from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Garcia Condado Jorge , Cortes Jesus M. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: October 2023

INTRODUCTION

BrainAge models based on neuroimaging data have diagnostic classification power but have replicability issues due to site and patient variability. BrainAge models trained on neuropsychological tests could help distinguish stable mild cognitive impairment (sMCI) from progressive MCI (pMCI) to Alzheimer's disease (AD).

METHODS

A linear regressor BrainAge model was trained on healthy controls using neuropsychological tests and neuroimaging features separately. The BrainAge delta, predicted age minus chronological age, was used to distinguish between sMCI and pMCI.

RESULTS

The cross‐validated area under the receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curve for sMCI versus pMCI was 0.91 for neuropsychological features in contrast to 0.68 for neuroimaging features. The BrainAge delta was correlated with the time to conversion, the time taken for a pMCI subject to convert to AD.

DISCUSSION

The BrainAge delta from neuropsychological tests is a good biomarker to distinguish between sMCI and pMCI. Other neurological and psychiatric disorders could be studied using this strategy.

Highlights

BrainAge models based on neuropsychological tests outperform models based on neuroimaging features when distinguishing between stable mild cognitive impairment (sMCI) from progressive MCI (pMCI) to Alzheimer's disease (AD).

The combination of neuropsychological tests with neuroimaging features does not lead to an improvement in sMCI versus pMCI classification compared to using neuropsychological tests on their own.

BrainAge delta of both neuroimaging and neuropsychological models was correlated with the time to conversion, the time taken for a pMCI subject to convert to AD.
Mechanical responses of underground carriageway structures due to construction of metro tunnels beneath the existing structure: A case study
Authors: Han Xin , Ye Fei , Han Xingbo , Ren Chao , Song Jing , Zhao Ruliang
Published: October 2023

To understand the mechanical response pattern of the existing structure and ground due to the construction of metro tunnels underneath, the finite difference method is adopted to study the torsional deformation and stress variation of the existing structure and the effect of underground carriageway structures on the surface subsidence. The curves of the maximum differential subsidence, torsion angle, and distortion of the cross‐section of the existing structure show two peaks in succession during traversing of two metro tunnels beneath it. The torsion angle of the existing structure changes when the two tunnels traverse beneath it in opposite directions. The first traversing of the shield tunnel mainly induces the magnitude variation in torsional deformation of the existing structure, but the second traversing of the subsurface tunnel may cause a dynamic change in the magnitude and form of torsional deformation in the existing structure. The shielding effect can reduce the surface subsidence caused by metro tunnel excavation to a certain extent, and the development trend of subsidence becomes slower as the excavation continues.
The association between obesity with treatment duration, ICU length of stay and the risk of death in critically ill patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Gholamalizadeh Maryam , Attari Mohammad , Mousavi Mahdi , Shekari Soheila , Salimi Zahra , Rajabi Harsini Asma , Zeinolabedin Mobina , Barzkar Amin , Mahmoudi Zahra , Alami Farkhondeh , Dahka Samaneh Mirzaei , Gholami Somayeh , Rahvar Masoume , Pourtaleb Masoume , Khoshdooz Sara , Kalantari Naser , Doaei Saeid
Published: October 2023

Background

Despite the confirmed association between higher BMI with increased risk of the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), the association between obesity with mortality in critically ill patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is not clear. The present study aimed to investigate the association between obesity with treatment duration, ICU length of stay, and the risk of death in critically ill patients with COVID‐19.

Methods

This case–control study was performed on 223 patients with COVID‐19 including 148 surviving patients as the control group and 75 eventually dead patients as the case group in Rasht, Iran. Data on demographic factors, comorbidities, anthropometric measurements, the length of hospitalization and the mortality were obtained from patients' medical records.

Results

The mortality rate was significantly associated with weight (OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 1.002–1.083, p = .04), but not with BMI after adjustments for age, gender, length of stay in ICU, chronic diseases and smoking. The results did not change after further adjustments for biochemical and pathological factors.

Conclusions

Weight was positively associated with mortality after controlling for confounding variables. Further studies should consider the patient's body composition such as fat mass to establish the relationship between obesity and COVID‐19 outcomes.
A Novel VW12 POMCPs with π‐π Stacking and Honeycomb 2D Network Structure Accommodated by MXenes as High‐Performance Supercapacitors Negative Electrode
Authors: Wang Siding , Wang Guangning , Pang Haijun , Wang Tianyang , Li Lu , Li Shaobin , Zhang Li , Chen Tingting
Published: October 2023

The key to obtain supercapacitors with high energy density is rational design and synthesis of negative electrode materials. Herein, a new type of polyoxometalate‐based coordination polymer was prepared by one‐step hydrothermal method. Polymer 1 with honeycomb two‐dimensional network structure is beneficial to improve electrical conductivity and storage capacity because of its π‐π stacking interaction. Ti3C2Tx, an MXene material with excellent electrical conductivity, was mixed with compound 1, which has rich redox reactions. As expected, 1@Ti3C2Tx exhibited outstanding specific capacitance (768.7 F g−1 at 8 A g−1), which is superior to many materials. In addition, the hybrid material also showed good cycle stability (88.1 % capacity retention after 1000 cycles). This work provides an effective way to develop hybrid electrode materials based on polyoxometalate‐based coordination polymers as supercapacitors. In addition, using 1@Ti3C2Tx as the negative electrode material and celery leaf carbon paper as the positive electrode material, the asymmetric supercapacitor device is fabricated. When the power density is 629.7 W kg−1, the energy density is 9.2 Wh kg−1, which indicates that it has a good application prospect.
Development of the Meyer–Schuster Rearrangement on Propargylic Alcohols with Fluorinated Chains
Authors: Justaud Frédéric , Grée René
Published: October 2023

The Meyer–Schuster Rearrangement (MSR) is a challenging process for propargylic alcohols bearing fluorine atom(s) on their chains. Most classical reagents/catalysts failed to perform the MSR but, after extensive screening, we demonstrated that phosphomolybdic acid was the first efficient catalyst for the MSR with such derivatives. The scope and limitations have been studied, affording fluorine‐containing enones as useful intermediates for the synthesis of targets with fluorine(s) on their side chains. It was exemplified by the preparation of a 2‐piperidino‐pyrimidine and a pyrazole.
Transition‐Metal‐Free Cascade Cyclization/Dearomatization Reaction to Access Selenylated Spirocyclohexadienones
Authors: Liu Yi , Liu Miao‐Chang , Zhou Yun‐Bing , Wu Hua‐Yue
Published: October 2023

A transition‐metal‐free method is disclosed for the construction of selenylated spirocyclohexadienones via cascade cyclization/dearomatization reaction of aryl phenol‐tethered alkynes with diselenides. The high efficiency of this protocol was demonstrated by room temperature, simple reaction conditions, and the ability to enable a gram‐scale synthesis. The experiment results implied that the dearomatization process proceeded in a radical way.