bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Routine Fecal Occult Blood Screening and Colorectal Cancer Mortality in Sweden
Authors: Blom Johannes , Saraste Deborah , Törnberg Sven , Jonsson Håkan
Published: February 2024

Importance

Population-based colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programs are implemented worldwide, but there are difficulties evaluating their effectiveness. The magnitude of routine CRC screening effectiveness regarding cancer-specific mortality is unclear.

Objective

To evaluate cancer-specific mortality associated with early vs late or no invitation for routine CRC screening using fecal occult blood testing.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective cohort study was performed in the region of Stockholm-Gotland, Sweden, between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2021. All individuals of the target population of screening born from 1938 to 1954 were included. Data were analyzed from December 12, 2022, to June 25, 2023.

Exposures

Individuals were invited early (2008-2012), late (2013-2015), or not at all to screening with biennial guaiac-based fecal occult blood test. The early invitation group was considered the exposure group and the late or no invitation group was considered the control group.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was cancer-specific mortality, defined as CRC registered in the Cancer Register with CRC as underlying cause of death in the Cause of Death Register. Excess mortality was calculated as all-cause deaths among the individuals with CRC subtracted from the expected number of deaths had they not had CRC. Poisson regression analysis based on deaths and person-years was used to estimated mortality rate ratio (RR) with 95% CIs, adjusted for follow-up years and attained age.

Results

In total, 379 448 individuals (193 436 [51.0%] female) were invited for CRC screening, including 203 670 individuals in the exposure group and 175 778 in the control group. The mean screening participation rate was 63.3%, and there was a maximum of 14 years follow-up. There were 834 CRC deaths in 2 190 589 person-years in the exposure group, compared with 889 CRC deaths in 2 249 939 person-years in the control group. Individuals who underwent early CRC screening had reduced adjusted risk of CRC mortality (RR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.78-0.95) and excess mortality (RR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.75-0.93).

Conclusions and Relevance

This prospective cohort study of routine screening with fecal occult blood testing found a 14% decrease in CRC mortality associated with screening. The true association of screening with reduced mortality is expected to be higher due to some coexistence of testing in the control group and CRC deaths diagnosed more than 2 years after screening.
Interlinked bi‐stable switches govern the cell fate commitment of embryonic stem cells
Authors: Giri Amitava , Kar Sandip
Published: February 2024

The development of embryonic stem (ES) cells to extraembryonic trophectoderm and primitive endoderm lineages manifests distinct steady‐state expression patterns of two key transcription factors—Oct4 and Nanog. How dynamically such kind of steady‐state expressions are maintained remains elusive. Herein, we demonstrate that steady‐state dynamics involving two bistable switches which are interlinked via a stepwise (Oct4) and a mushroom‐like (Nanog) manner orchestrate the fate specification of ES cells. Our hypothesis qualitatively reconciles various experimental observations and elucidates how different feedback and feedforward motifs orchestrate the extraembryonic development and stemness maintenance of ES cells. Importantly, the model predicts strategies to optimize the dynamics of self‐renewal and differentiation of embryonic stem cells that may have therapeutic relevance in the future.
Probing the legitimate initiation of RNA synthesis by Qβ replicase with oligonucleotide primers
Authors: Lobodin Kirill V. , Chetverina Helena V. , Chetverin Alexander B.
Published: February 2024

Oligoribonucleotides complementary to the template 3′ terminus were tested for their ability to initiate RNA synthesis on legitimate templates capable of exponential amplification by Qβ replicase. Oligonucleotides shorter than the distance to the nearest predicted template hairpin proved able to serve as primers, with the optimal length varying for different templates, suggesting that during initiation the template retains its native fold incorporating the 3′ terminus. The priming activity of an oligonucleotide is greatly enhanced by its 5′‐triphosphate group, the effect being strongly dependent on Mg2+ ions. This indicates that, unlike other studied RNA polymerases, Qβ replicase binds the 5′‐triphosphate of the initiating nucleotide GTP, and this binding is needed for the replication of legitimate templates.
Essential oils extracted from nine different plants exhibit differential effects on skin antioxidation and elasticity
Authors: Kim Da Som , Kim Min Jae , Park Mi‐Jin , Ahn Byoung‐Jun , Yu Wook‐Joon , An Sung‐Min , An Beum‐Soo
Published: February 2024

Essential oils derived from plants are major ingredients in the medical and cosmetic industry. Here, we evaluated nine types of plant essential oils to identify potential candidates with antioxidant and elasticity‐enhancing properties. Seven essential oils showed at least 10% radical scavenging activity at the highest concentration. Essential oils extracted from Aster glehnii, Cinnamomum cassia, Citrus unshiu, Juniperus chinensis L., and Juniperus chinensis var. sargentii significantly enhanced fibroblast viability, and oils from Cit. unshiu, J. chinensis L., and J. chinensis var. sargentii significantly increased cell proliferation and migration. Expression of extracellular matrix proteins, including collagen 1, collagen 3, and elastin, were upregulated by J. chinensis L. and J. chinensis var. sargentii oil, which also significantly enhanced the contractile activity of skin cells in a three‐dimensional gel contraction assay. The results suggest that J. chinensis L. and J. chinensis var. sargentii essential oils may be potential anti‐wrinkling and anti‐oxidative agents for future consideration of use in the medical and cosmetic industry.
Relative efficiency of hunting methods during an incomplete Sitka black‐tailed deer eradication on Haida Gwaii, Canada
Authors: Irvine Robyn L. , Thorley Joseph L.
Published: February 2024

Invasive species are reducing global biodiversity. The Llgaay gwii sdiihlda—Restoring Balance project was initiated to halt and reverse biodiversity loss on six islands on Haida Gwaii, Canada through the eradication of invasive Sitka Black‐tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus sitkensis).

Invasive deer were killed using various hunting methods including bait station, boat, aerial and indicator dog hunting as well as a combination of bailing dogs with boat and aerial hunting. Cost was quantified in terms of helicopter hunting hours ($1965 CAD/hr at the time of the study) to facilitate comparisons. Efficiency was quantified as the expected number of deer per helicopter hour.

Hierarchical Bayesian integrated removal models were used to estimate the change in efficiency of the various hunting methods with deer density based on a power function. The models used the number of scent trail detections by dogs at the end of the study to help parameterise the population density.

At densities between 2 and 30 deer/km2, boat hunting was estimated as the most efficient method while at lower densities indicator dog hunting was most efficient.

The eradication was incomplete. The estimated cost to completion using indicator dog hunting for each island was 43 helicopter hours (~$84,000) on Ramsay Island (95% CI = 19–128), 3.9 helicopter hours on Murchison Island (95% CI = 0.56–18) and no additional hours on House (95% CI = 0–1.6) though the selected method would likely have been indicator dogs with combined hunting due to the variable terrain.

Lessons learned: DNA connectivity analysis can be used to determine project durability, pilot studies to confirm method efficiency in local context will increase the chances of success, local knowledge improves efficiency of hunting methods, population and efficiency estimates should be updated throughout operations to allow adaptive management, eradications on ungulates can include pauses to facilitate adaptive management, the level of certainty for determining eradication completion should be determined in advance of operations with explicit trade‐offs identified for managers.
Previewing test items prior to learning and receiving decorative pictures during testing: Impact on listening comprehension for English as a Foreign Language students
Authors: Wang Zhe , Zeng Jiayan , Ardasheva Yuliya , Zhang Ping
Published: February 2024

In multimedia learning research, pictures are commonly used to visually represent corresponding written texts, generating substantial research on how to apply multimedia principles to more effectively design instructional materials. However, it is still unclear what types of pictures presented in testing, with or without additional instructional supports, enhance learning from spoken messages. To address this gap, the present experiment recruited 184 university students and employed a 2 (representational vs. decorative pictures) × 2 (cueing vs. no cueing) between‐subjects factorial design. Specifically, this study investigated the effects of adding decorative (aesthetic, interest enhancing), as compared to representational (content depicting) pictures, to test items with or without the opportunity to preview such items (cueing) on learning and learning judgments. The results showed significant main effects of picture type and cueing, as well as a significant interaction effect on listening comprehension. That is, cueing neutralized the negative impact of decorative pictures, but did not improve learning when representational pictures were used. In addition, representational pictures led to significantly higher learning judgments than did decorative pictures. The detrimental effect of decorative pictures and the compensating effect of cueing on decorative pictures in testing were confirmed in the listening comprehension scenario.
Characterization of Microstructured Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube/Polydimethylsiloxane Composites for Piezoresistive Sensing Applications
Authors: Buga Claudia S. , Tavares Carlos J. , Viana Júlio C.
Published: February 2024

Technological advancements in the field of flexible and printed electronics are creating a need for large‐area sensors that can be embedded over different types of surfaces. Such sensors can be used to monitor physical signals over flexible, curved, or soft devices. Hence, it is herein proposed, a formulation to produce piezoresistive multiwalled carbon nanotube/polydimethylsiloxane (MWCNT/PDMS) composites with tunable electric properties for pressure sensing purposes. The composite is obtained through few manufacturing steps, avoiding the use of hazardous solvents. Different weight percentages of MWCNT dispersed in PDMS are evaluated and the results evidence that using 3.0 wt% of infill is sufficient to obtain highly sensitive sensors. To enhance the dispersion of the MWCNT and add microstructure to the composite, a system composed of a surfactant and foaming agent is used. Finally, pressure sensing units and arrays are printed and tested. The sensors present fast response, low hysteresis, repeatability, and a sensing range of 0–160 kPa. The composite is more sensitive to lower pressure and a maximum sensitivity of 8.0% kPa−1is achieved for porous composites at pressure <10 kPa. Thanks to these characteristics, the sensors are successfully used in the development of a pressure sensing array and heartbeat sensor for proof of concept.
Ultra‐Stretchable and Environmentally Resilient Hydrogels Via Sugaring‐Out Strategy for Soft Robotics Sensing
Authors: Ye Yuhang , Wan Zhangmin , Gunawardane P.D.S.H. , Hua Qi , Wang Siheng , Zhu Jiaying , Chiao Mu , Renneckar Scott , Rojas Orlando J. , Jiang Feng
Published: February 2024

The adoption of hydrogels in most applications is hampered by their high free water content, which limits their mechanical performance and environmental resilience. Herein, this issue is simultaneously addressed by modulating the state of water and the intermolecular interactions in polyacrylamide (PAM) hydrogels. Specifically, PAM hydrogels are toughened by sugaring‐out using a monosaccharide (glucose, G). Glucose is found to facilitate PAM hydrogen bonding and interchain interactions. Meanwhile, the high hygroscopicity of glucose converts some of the free water to bound state, endowing the hydrogels with remarkable resilience to extreme environmental conditions. The PAM‐G hydrogels are demonstrated as multimodal sensors for soft robotics. Moreover, PAM‐G alcogels produced by solvent exchanging with ethanol are shown as effective opto‐mechanical sensors. Notably, all these properties are obtained by the inclusion of glucose, a green additive showing no negative health and environmental effect.
Solid‐State Hydrogen Storage Origin and Design Principles of Carbon‐Based Light Metal Single‐Atom Materials
Authors: Gao Yong , Li Zhenglong , Wang Pan , Li Chao , Yue Qiuyan , Cui Wen‐Gang , Wang Xiaowei , Yang Yaxiong , Gao Fan , Zhang Mingchang , Gan Jiantuo , Li Chenchen , Liu Yanxia , Wang Xinqiang , Qi Fulai , Miao Jian , Zhang Jing , Han Xiao , Du Wubin , Liu Cuixia , Wan Yiyang , Yang Yu‐Chia , Xia Zhenhai , Pan Hongge
Published: February 2024

Solid‐state storage of hydrogen molecules in carbon‐based light metal single‐atom materials is promising to achieve both high hydrogen storage capacity and uptake rate, but there is a lack of fundamental understanding and design principles to guide the rational design of the materials. Here, a theoretical relationship is established between the hydrogen capacity/rate and the structures of the heteroatom‐doped‐graphene‐supported light metal Li single atom materials for high‐efficient solid‐state hydrogen storage, which is verified by combining spectroscopic characterization, H2 adsorption/desorption measurements, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Based on the DFT calculations, a novel descriptor Φ is developed to correlate the inherent properties of dopants with the hydrogen storage properties, and further to screen out the best dual‐doped‐graphene‐supported light metal Li single‐atom hydrogen storage materials. The dual‐doped materials have a much higher hydrogen storage capability than the sole‐doped ones and exceed the best carbon‐based hydrogen storage materials so far.
Apoptotic Vesicles Modulate Endothelial Metabolism and Ameliorate Ischemic Retinopathy via PD1/PDL1 Axis
Authors: Jing Yutong , Zhao Wanmin , Zhou Ziyi , Wang Wenzhe , Niu Yali , He Xiaoning , Chang Tianfang , Guo Changmei , Li Bei , Dou Guorui
Published: February 2024

Pathological angiogenesis with subsequent disturbed microvascular remodeling is a major cause of irreversible blindness in a number of ischemic retinal diseases. The current anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor therapy can effectively inhibit angiogenesis, but it also brings significant side effects. The emergence of stem cell derived extracellular vesicles provides a new underlining strategy for ischemic retinopathy. Apoptotic vesicles (apoVs) are extracted from stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED). SHED‐apoVs are delivered into the eyeballs of oxygen‐induced retinopathy (a most common model of angiogenic retinal dieseases) mice through intravitreal injection. The retinal neovascularization and nonperfusion area, vascular structure, and density changes are observed during the neovascularization phase (P17) and vascular remodeling phase (P21), and visual function is measured. The expression of extracellular acidification rate and lactic acid testing are used to detect endothelial cells (ECs) glycolytic activity. Furthermore, lentivirus and neutralizing antibody are used to block PD1‐PDL1 axis, investigating the effects of SHED‐apoVs on glycolysis and angiogenic activities. This work shows that SHED‐apoVs are taken up by ECs and modulate the ECs glycolysis, leading to the decrease of abnormal neovessels and vascular remodeling. Furthermore, it is found that, at the molecular level, apoVs‐carried PD1 interacts with PDL1 on hypoxic ECs to regulate the angiogenic activation. SHED‐apoVs inhibit pathological angiogenesis and promote vascular remodeling in ischemic retinopathy partially by modulating ECs glycolysis through PD1/PDL1 axis. This study provides a new potential strategy for the clinical treatment of pathological retinal neovascularization.
Citrate Improves Biomimetic Mineralization Induced by Polyelectrolyte–Cation Complexes Using PAsp‐Ca&Mg Complexes
Authors: Shen Dong‐Ni , Xu Yue‐Dan , He Cheng , Zhou Zi‐Huai , Zhu Hai‐Hua , Shi Ying , Yu Meng‐Fei , Hu Jian , Fu Bai‐Ping
Published: February 2024

Magnesium ions are highly enriched in early stage of biological mineralization of hard tissues. Paradoxically, hydroxyapatite (HAp) crystallization is inhibited significantly by high concentration of magnesium ions. The mechanism to regulate magnesium‐doped biomimetic mineralization of collagen fibrils has never been fully elucidated. Herein, it is revealed that citrate can bioinspire the magnesium‐stabilized mineral precursors to generate magnesium‐doped biomimetic mineralization as follows: Citrate can enhance the electronegativity of collagen fibrils by its absorption to fibrils via hydrogen bonds. Afterward, electronegative collagen fibrils can attract highly concentrated electropositive polyaspartic acid‐Ca&Mg (PAsp‐Ca&Mg) complexes followed by phosphate solution via strong electrostatic attraction. Meanwhile, citrate adsorbed in/on fibrils can eliminate mineralization inhibitory effects of magnesium ions by breaking hydration layer surrounding magnesium ions and thus reduce dehydration energy barrier for rapid fulfillment of biomimetic mineralization. The remineralized demineralized dentin with magnesium‐doped HAp possesses antibacterial ability, and the mineralization mediums possess excellent biocompatibility via cytotoxicity and oral mucosa irritation tests. This strategy shall shed light on cationic ions‐doped biomimetic mineralization with antibacterial ability via modifying collagen fibrils and eliminating mineralization inhibitory effects of some cationic ions, as well as can excite attention to the neglected multiple regulations of small biomolecules, such as citrate, during biomineralization process.
A Genetically Engineered “Reinforced Concrete” Scaffold Regulates the N2 Neutrophil Innate Immune Cascade to Repair Bone Defects
Authors: Shi Wenxiao , Feng Yu , Tang Jincheng , Xu Yichang , Wang Wei , Zhang Lichen , Jiang Xinzhao , Ding Zhouye , Xi Kun , Chen Liang , Gu Yong
Published: February 2024

The innate immune response is crucial to inflammation, but how neutrophils and macrophages act in bone repair and tissue engineering treatment strategies await clarification. In this study, it is found that N2 neutrophils release stronger “eat me” signals to induce macrophage phagocytosis and polarize into the M2 anti‐inflammatory phenotype. Guided by this biological mechanism, a mesoporous bioactive glass scaffold (MBG) is filled with hyaluronic acid methacryloyl (HAMA) hydrogel loaded with Transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGFβ1) adenovirus (Ad@H), constructing a genetically engineered composite scaffold (Ad@H/M). The scaffold not only has good hydrophilicity and biocompatibility, but also provides mechanical stress support for bone repair. Adenovirus infection quickly induces N2 neutrophils, upregulating NF‐κB and MAPK signaling pathways through Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) to promote the inflammatory response and macrophage phagocytosis. Macrophages perform phagocytosis and polarize towards the M2 phenotype, mediating the inflammatory response by inhibiting the PI3K‐AKT‐NF‐κB pathway, maintaining homeostasis of the osteogenic microenvironment. The role of the Ad@H/M scaffold in regulating early inflammation and promoting long‐term bone regeneration is further validated in vivo. In brief, this study focuses on the cascade of reactions between neutrophils and macrophage subtypes, and reports a composite scaffold that coordinates the innate immune response to promote bone repair.
Synergistic Interaction between Metal Single‐Atoms and Defective WO3−x Nanosheets for Enhanced Sonodynamic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhou Zhan , Wang Tao , Hu Tingting , Xu Hao , Cui Lin , Xue Baoli , Zhao Xinshuo , Pan Xiangrong , Yu Shilong , Li Hai , Qin Yong , Zhang Jiankang , Ma Lufang , Liang Ruizheng , Tan Chaoliang
Published: February 2024

Although metal single‐atom (SA)‐based nanomaterials are explored as sonosensitizers for sonodynamic therapy (SDT), they normally exhibit poor activities and need to combine with other therapeutic strategies. Herein, the deposition of metal SAs on oxygen vacancy (OV)‐rich WO3−x nanosheets to generate a synergistic effect for efficient SDT is reported. Crystalline WO3 and OV‐rich WO3−x nanosheets are first prepared by simple calcination of the WO3·H2O nanosheets under an air and N2 atmosphere, respectively. Pt, Cu, Fe, Co, and Ni metal SAs are then deposited on WO3−x nanosheets to obtain metal SA‐decorated WO3−x nanocomposites (M‐WO3−x). Importantly, the Cu‐WO3−x sonosensitizer exhibits a much higher activity for ultrasound (US)‐induced production of reactive oxygen species than that of the WO3−x and Cu SA‐decorated WO3, which is also higher than other M‐WO3−x nanosheets. Both the experimental and theoretical results suggest that the excellent SDT performance of the Cu‐WO3−x nanosheets should be attributed to the synergistic effect between Cu SAs and WO3−x OVs. Therefore, after polyethylene glycol modification, the Cu‐WO3−x can quickly kill cancer cells in vitro and effectively eradicate tumors in vivo under US irradiation. Transcriptome sequencing analysis and further molecular validation suggest that the Cu‐WO3−x‐mediated SDT‐activated apoptosis and TNF signaling pathways are potential drivers of tumor apoptosis induction.
Synergizing Pyroelectric Catalysis and Enzyme Catalysis: Establishing a Reciprocal and Synergistic Model to Enhance Anti‐Tumor Activity
Authors: Wang Yan , Zhang Rui , Zang Pengyu , Zhao Ruoxi , Wu Linzhi , Zhu Yanlin , Yang Dan , Gai Shili , Yang Piaoping
Published: February 2024

Nanozyme activity is greatly weakened by the microenvironment and multidrug resistance of tumor cells. Hence, a bi‐catalytic nanoplatform, which promotes the anti‐tumor activity through “charging empowerment” and “mutual complementation” processes involved in enzymatic and pyroelectric catalysis, by loading ultra‐small nanoparticles (USNPs) of pyroelectric ZnSnO3 onto MXene nanozyme (V2CTx nanosheets), is developed. Here, the V2CTx nanosheets exhibit enhanced peroxidase activity by reacting V3+ with H2O2 to generate toxic ·OH, accelerated by the near‐infrared (NIR) light mediated heat effect. The resulting V4+ is then converted to V3+ by oxidizing endogenous glutathione (GSH), realizing an enzyme‐catalyzed cycle. However, the cycle will lose its persistence once GSH is insufficient; nevertheless, the pyroelectric charges generated by ZnSnO3 USNPs continuously support the V4+/V3+ conversion and ensure nanoenzyme durability. Moreover, the hyperthermia arising from the V2CTx nanosheets by NIR irradiation results in an ideal local temperature gradient for the ZnSnO3 USNPs, giving rise to an excellent pyroelectric catalytic effect by promoting band bending. Furthermore, polarized charges increase the tumor cell membrane permeability and facilitate nanodrug accumulation, thereby resolving the multidrug resistance issue. Thus, the combination of pyroelectric and enzyme catalysis together with the photothermal effect solves the dilemma of nanozymes and improves the antitumor efficiency.
Laser Lithography of Monolithically‐Integrated Multi‐Level Microchannels in Silicon
Authors: Tauseef Muhammad Ahsan , Asgari Sabet Rana , Tokel Onur
Published: February 2024

The trend toward ever‐increased speeds for microelectronics is challenged by the emergence of heat‐wall, leading to the faltering of Moore's Law. A potential solution may be integrating microfluidic channels into silicon (Si), to deliver controlled amounts of cooling fluid and regulate hot spots. Such meandering microfluidic channels within other transparent materials already played significant roles, including in biomedical and sensor applications; however, analogous channel architectures do not exist in Si. Here, a novel method is proposed to fabricate buried microchannel arrays monolithically integrated into Si, without altering the wafer surface. A two‐step, laser‐assisted subtractive removal method is exploited, enabling fully‐buried multi‐level architectures, with control on the channel port geometry, depth, curvature, and aspect ratio. The selective removal rate is 750 µm per h per channel, and the channel inner‐wall roughness is 230 nm. The method preserves top wafer surface roughness of 2 nm, with significant potential for 3D integrated systems.
Investigating Transducer–Tissue Interface Pressure for Soft Tissue Stress–Strain Behavior and the Effects on Echoic Intensities in Ultrasound Imaging of Periodontium
Authors: La Thanh Giang , Nguyen Kim Cuong T. , Kaipatur Neelambar , Lou Edmond H. M. , Major Paul W. , Le Lawrence H.
Published: February 2024

Diagnostic ultrasound (US) is a major imaging modality to visualize soft tissues and blood flow with the advantages of real‐time imaging, high acceptability to patients, and absence of ionizing radiation. US imaging provides important clinical measurements, e.g., thickness of gingiva for treatment planning in orthodontics, periodontics, and implantology; or thickness of subcutaneous adipose for optimizing insulin injection. However, the image quality and measurements of anatomical structures can be inconsistent, i.e., due to varying pressure exerted by an US transducer. Herein, a simple device is developed to real‐time measure the interface pressure applied on tissues by the US transducer. A thin‐film piezo‐resistive sensor with a small footprint is integrated to sense the pressure. A theoretical model, based on hyperelastic material behavior, is verified using the pressure measured by the thin film sensor and the thickness determined on ultrasonograms. The device is also tested on porcine samples in the pressure range of 50–300 kPa for imaging gingiva boundaries, identifying tissue thickness, and probing tissue biomenchanical properties. The device enables the understanding on the optimal range of applied pressure for higher contrast imaging. The information of the on‐tissue pressure and the tissue deformation determined on the US images help to derive the biomechanical stress–strain behavior of the tissues.
Integration of Supercapacitors with Sensors and Energy‐Harvesting Devices: A Review
Authors: Sheng Hongwei , Ma Yuqi , Zhang Haoshuo , Yuan Jiao , Li Fengfeng , Li Wenquan , Xie Erqing , Lan Wei
Published: February 2024

The vigorous development of wearable and implantable electronics provides a series of new solutions for human health monitoring and disease diagnosis and treatment. Considering the particularity of the operating environment, this also puts forward higher requirements for energy storage devices (ESDs). Supercapacitors stand out from many ESDs due to their unique advantages, such as high power density, long life, and ease of fabrication. For different application requirements, supercapacitors are developing toward flexibility, multifunction, and integration. This review highlights the recent progress in developing supercapacitor‐integrated systems. Smart supercapacitors with unique properties, their applications, and integrations with various sensors and/or energy‐harvesting devices are discussed and summarized thoroughly. Furthermore, the all‐in‐one device enabled by compatible materials and ingenious structure design is also described. From practical perspectives, the key challenges facing the development of supercapacitor‐integrated systems are presented, and the suggestions for future research directions are given.
Theoretical Maximum Thermoelectric Performance of p‐Type Hf‐ and Zr‐Doped NbFeSb Half‐Heusler Compounds
Authors: Park Hyunjin , Kim Sang‐il , Kim Jeong‐Yeon , Shin Weon Ho , Aydemir Umut , Kim Hyun‐Sik
Published: February 2024

Half‐Heusler compounds are promising materials for thermoelectric applications due to their high zT at elevated temperatures. However, their intrinsic high thermal conductivity limits their efficiency. Doping with Hf or Zr can improve the zT of these materials. Recently, a high zT of 1.5 at 1200 K achieved in p‐type Nb1‐xHfxFeSb has attracted much attention. While the effect of doping Hf in thermal conductivity is studied thoroughly, the effect of Hf doping on band parameters is not fully evaluated. This study investigates the effect of Hf and Zr doping on the electronic band parameters and thermoelectric properties of NbFeSb using the Single Parabolic Band model. The results show that Hf doping increases the weighted mobility of the samples, while Zr doping has no significant effect. Hf doping with x = 0.14 is predicted to improve the zT of NbFeSb by 35% at 300 K (0.19 → 0.26). These results show the intricate effects of Hf and Zr doping on the electronic and thermal properties of NbFeSb.
Efficient BiVO4 Photoanode with an Excellent Hole Transport Layer of CuSCN for Solar Water Oxidation
Authors: Liu Yan , Zhang Zhiyong , Wang Kang , Tan Xianglong , Chen Junru , Ren Xiaoliang , Jiang Feng
Published: February 2024

Bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) is reported as a key material in photoelectrocatalysis owing to high theoretical efficiency, relatively narrow band gap of 2.4 eV, and favorable conduction band edge position for hydrogen evolution. However, the sluggish hole transport dynamics lead to slow photogenerated charge separation and transport efficiencies, which result in charge recombination due to aggregation. Herein, a novel hole transport layer of copper(I) thiocyanate (CuSCN) with the aim of significantly enhancing the efficiency of charge transport and stability of BiVO4 photoanodes is reported. The introduction of the hole transport layer could provide an appropriate intermediate energy level for photogenerated hole transfer and avoid charge recombination and trapping. After a photoassisted electrodeposition process of NiCoFe‐Bi catalysis, the obtained photoanode achieves a photocurrent density of 5.6 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode under AM 1.5 G simulated solar radiation, and an applied bias photon to current efficiency of 2.31%. With the CuSCN layer, BiVO4 photoanode presented impressive stable photocurrent during 50 h continuous illumination. Meanwhile, the unbiased tandem device of the NiCoFe‐Bi/CuSCN/BiVO4 photoanode and the Si solar cell exhibit a solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency of 5.75% and excellent stability for 14 h.
Improving CO2‐to‐C2 Conversion of Atomic CuFONC Electrocatalysts through F, O‐Codrived Optimization of Local Coordination Environment
Authors: Lv Zunhang , Wang Changli , Liu Yarong , Liu Rui , Zhang Fang , Feng Xiao , Yang Wenxiu , Wang Bo
Published: February 2024

Electrocatalytic CO2 to multi‐carbon products is an attractive strategy to achieve a carbon‐neutral energy cycle. Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) that achieve the C2 selectivity always have low metal loading and inevitably undergo in situ reversible/irreversible metallic agglomerations under working conditions. Herein, a high‐density Cu SA anchored F, O, N co‐doped carbon composites (CuFONC) with a stable CuN2O1 configuration is provided, which can reach a remarkable C2 selectivity of ≈80.5% in Faradaic efficiency at −1.3 V versus RHE. In situ/ex situ experimental characterization and density functional theory (DFT) calculations verified that the excellent stability of CuN2O1 during the CO2RR process can be attributed to F/O co‐derived regulation for CuFONC. Remarkably, as confirmed by DFT, it is atomic Cu sites and the adjacent bonded N motifs in CuFONC that act as the adsorption sites for CO* during the C─C coupling process. This work brings a prospective on designing novel but stable atomic Cu coordination for electrolytic CO2‐to‐C2 pathway.
A Bifunctional Electrolyte Additive Features Preferential Coordination with Iodine toward Ultralong‐Life Zinc–Iodine Batteries
Authors: Wang Feifei , Liang Wenbin , Liu Xinyi , Yin Tianyu , Chen Zihui , Yan Zhijie , Li Fangbing , Liu Wei , Lu Jiong , Yang Chunpeng , Yang Quan‐Hong
Published: February 2024

Aqueous zinc–iodine (Zn‐I2) battery is one of the most promising candidates for large‐scale energy storage due to its cost‐effectiveness, environmental friendliness, and recyclability. Its practical application is hindered by challenges including polyiodide “shuttle effect” in the cathode and anode corrosion. In this study, a zinc pyrrolidone carboxylate bifunctional additive is introduced to simultaneously tackle the issues of the polyiodide and Zn anode. It is revealed that the pyrrolidone carboxylate anions decrease the polyiodide concentration by preferential coordination between the pyrrolidone carboxylate anions and I2 based on the Lewis acid‐base effect, suppressing the shuttle effect and therefore improving the conversion kinetics for the iodine redox process. Meanwhile, the pyrrolidone carboxylate anions adsorbed on the Zn anode inhibit Zn corrosion and promote non‐dendritic Zn plating, contributing to impressive Coulombic efficiency and long‐term cycling stability. As a result, the Zn‐I2 full battery with the bifunctional zinc pyrrolidone carboxylate additive realizes a high specific capacity of 211 mAh g−1 (≈100% iodine utilization rate), and an ultralong cycling life of >30 000 cycles with 87% capacity retention. These findings highlight the significant potential of zinc pyrrolidone carboxylate as a transformative additive for aqueous Zn‐I2 batteries, marking a critical advancement in the field of energy storage technologies.
Halide precursor reduction strategy to modulate bismuthene with high selectivity and wide potential window for electrochemicalCO2reduction
Authors: Xia Dong , Xie Ruikuan , Xie Huan , Pang Yongyu , Huang Peng , He Guanjie , Chai Guoliang
Published: February 2024

Developing high‐performance electrocatalysts for CO2reduction reaction (CO2RR) is vital in achieving a carbon‐neutral society by converting CO2into valuable chemicals. CO2RR electrocatalyst with lower overpotential, higher selectivity and wider working potential range is urgently desired, but it is still challenging to realize these factors simultaneously. Here, high‐performance bismuthene‐based electrocatalysts were synthesized by reducing bismuth precursors like BiCl3, BiBr3, and BiI3in liquid phases. Especially, bismuthene‐I derived from BiI3showed a nanosheet morphology (around four‐layer) with significantly enhanced (110) surfaces. It enabled an ultrawide potential window (0.7 V) for high formate selectivity (>90%) in a H‐type cell and achieved an ultralow potential (−0.46 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode) to attain a current density of 200 mA cm−2in a gas‐diffusion flow cell. The prominent long‐term operational capability of bismuthene‐I was demonstrated in both H‐type and gas‐diffusion cells. Density functional theory calculations revealed that bismuthene‐I possessed abundant topological Bi(110) surfaces states that can reduce the CO2RR overpotential, suppress the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction, and facilitate electron donation during CO2electrocatalysis. The bismuthene‐I realized low overpotential, high selectivity and wide working potential range simultaneously for electrochemical CO2RR. This work unfolds the broader plausibility of facilely reducing precursors for the scalable fabrication of high‐performing CO2RR electrocatalysts.
Clinical characteristics, molecular aberrations, treatments, and outcomes of malignant histiocytosis
Authors: Ruan Gordon J. , Zanwar Saurabh , Ravindran Aishwarya , Schram Susan , Abeykoon Jithma P. , Hazim Antonious , Young Jason R. , Shah Mithun V. , Bennani N. Nora , Jiang Liuyan , Morlote Diana , Rech Karen L. , Goyal Gaurav , Go Ronald S. ,   the Mayo Clinic‐University of Alabama at Birmingham Histiocytosis Working Group
Published: February 2024

Malignant histiocytosis (MH) is an extremely rare neoplasm of the macrophage–dendritic cell lineage. We report the clinical characteristics, molecular aberrations, treatments, and outcomes of patients with MH seen at two referral centers from January 2000 to May 2023. We identified 43 patients with MH, of which 26 had histiocytic sarcoma (MH‐H), 9 interdigitating dendritic cell sarcoma (MH‐IDC), and 8 Langerhans cell sarcoma (MH‐LC). The median age at diagnosis was 61 years (range, 3–83). Thirty‐three patients (77%) had multifocal disease, while 10 had unifocal involvement. Tumor specimens from 22 patients (51%) underwent targeted next generation sequencing, and 19 of 22 (86%) had at least one pathogenic mutation, including mutations in MAPK pathway genes (73%). The median overall survival (OS) among the entire cohort was 16 months (95% CI: 8–50). The outcomes of those with multifocal disease were significantly shorter than their unifocal counterpart: median OS of 10 months versus 50 months (p = .07). Patients with risk organ involvement (bone marrow, spleen, or liver) had significantly inferior outcomes. Chemotherapy and surgery were the most common first‐line treatments for multifocal and unifocal disease, respectively. While the outcome for patients with multifocal disease was poor, there was a subset of patients who had durable responses to treatment. Our study highlights that MH has heterogeneous clinical presentation, frequent oncogenic mutations, and prognosis, which is strongly tied to disease extent and type of organ involvement.
Sniffing behavior of semi free‐ranging Barbary macaques (Macaca sylvanus)
Authors: Simon Miriam , Widdig Anja , Weiß Brigitte M.
Published: February 2024

Olfaction is one of the evolutionarily oldest senses and plays a fundamental role in foraging and social interactions across mammals. In primates, the role of olfaction is now well recognized, but better investigated in strepsirrhine and platyrrhine primates than in catarrhines. We observed the sniffing behavior of semi‐free ranging Barbary macaques, Macaca sylvanus, at Affenberg Salem, Germany, to assess how frequently macaques sniff and in which contexts, and how sniffing is affected by sex and age. Focal observations of 24 males and 24 females aged 1–25 years showed that Barbary macaques sniffed, on average, 5.24 times per hour, with more than 80% of sniffs directed at food. Irrespective of the context, younger individuals sniffed more often than older ones. Females’ sniffs were more often directed at food than male sniffs, while males sniffed more often than females in a social context. Sniffs at conspecifics occurred primarily in a sexual context, with 70% of social sniffs directed at female anogenital swellings performed by males. Of the observed 176 anogenital inspections, 51 involved sniffing of the swelling. Olfactory inspections were followed by copulation significantly less often than merely visual inspections, suggesting that anogenital odors may play a role in male mating decisions, but the role of olfaction in sexual interactions warrants further investigations. In sum, results show that Barbary macaques routinely use olfaction during feeding, but also in a socio‐sexual context, corroborating the relevance of the olfactory sense in the lives of catarrhine primates.
The effects of the industrial transition on lower limb bone structure: A comparison of the inhabitants of Pecos Pueblo and present‐day Indigenous peoples of New Mexico
Authors: Ruff Christopher B. , Wallace Ian J. , Toya Christopher , Muñoz Mario Antonio Peña , Meyer Jana Valesca , Busby Taylor , Reynolds Adam Z. , Martinez Jordan , Miller‐Moore Marcus , Rios Roberto
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Comparisons between Indigenous peoples over time and within a particular geographic region can shed light on the impact of environmental transitions on the skeleton, including relative bone strength, sexual dimorphism, and age‐related changes. Here we compare long bone structural properties of the inhabitants of the late prehistoric‐early historic Pecos Pueblo with those of present‐day Indigenous individuals from New Mexico.

Materials and Methods

Femora and tibiae of 126 adults from Pecos Pueblo and 226 present‐day adults were included in the study. Cross‐sectional diaphyseal properties—areas and second moments of area—were obtained from past studies of the Pecos Pueblo skeletal sample, and from computed tomography scans of recently deceased individuals in the present‐day sample.

Results

Femora and tibiae from Pecos individuals are stronger relative to body size than those of present‐day Indigenous individuals. Present‐day individuals are taller but not wider, and this body shape difference affects cross‐sectional shape, more strongly proximally. The tibia shows anteroposterior strengthening among Pecos individuals, especially among males. Sexual dimorphism in midshaft bone shape is stronger within the Pecos Pueblo sample. With aging, Pecos individuals show more medullary expansion but also more subperiosteal expansion than present‐day individuals, maintaining bone strength despite cortical thinning.

Discussion

Higher activity levels, carried out over rough terrain and throughout adult life, likely explain the relatively stronger lower limb bones of the Pecos individuals, as well as their greater subperiosteal expansion with aging. Greater sexual dimorphism in bone structure among Pecos individuals potentially reflects greater gender‐based differences in behavioral patterns.
Knee osteoarthritis: A review of animal models and intervention of traditional Chinese medicine
Authors: Song Xuyu , Liu Ying , Chen Siyi , Zhang Lei , Zhang Huijie , Shen Xianhui , Du Hang , Sun Rong
Published: February 2024

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) characterized by degeneration of knee cartilage and subsequent bone hyperplasia is a prevalent joint condition primarily affecting aging adults. The pathophysiology of KOA remains poorly understood, as it involves complex mechanisms that result in the same outcome. Consequently, researchers are interested in studying KOA and require appropriate animal models for basic research. Chinese herbal compounds, which consist of multiple herbs with diverse pharmacological properties, possess characteristics such as multicomponent, multipathway, and multitarget effects. The potential benefits in the treatment of KOA continue to attract attention.

Purpose

This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the advantages, limitations, and specific considerations in selecting different species and methods for KOA animal models. This will help researchers make informed decisions when choosing an animal model.

Methods

Online academic databases (e.g., PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and CNKI) were searched using the search terms “knee osteoarthritis,” “animal models,” “traditional Chinese medicine,” and their combinations, primarily including KOA studies published from 2010 to 2023.

Results

Based on literature retrieval, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the methods of establishing KOA animal models; introduces the current status of advantages and disadvantages of various animal models, including mice, rats, rabbits, dogs, and sheep/goats; and presents the current status of methods used to establish KOA animal models.

Conclusion

This study provides a review of the animal models used in recent KOA research, discusses the common modeling methods, and emphasizes the role of traditional Chinese medicine compounds in the treatment of KOA.
Polycationic Open‐Shell Cyclophanes: Synthesis of Electron‐Rich Chiral Macrocycles, and Redox‐Dependent Electronic States
Authors: Shi Yafei , Li Chenglong , Di Jiaqi , Xue Yuting , Jia Yawei , Duan Jiaxian , Hu Xiaoyu , Tian Yu , Li Yanqiu , Sun Cuiping , Zhang Niu , Xiong Yan , Jin Tianyun , Chen Pangkuan
Published: February 2024

π‐Conjugated chiral nanorings with intriguing electronic structures and chiroptical properties have attracted considerable interests in synthetic chemistry and materials science. We present the design principles to access new chiral macrocycles (1 and 2) that are essentially built on the key components of main‐group electron‐donating carbazolyl moieties or the π‐expanded aza[7]helicenes. Both macrocycles show the unique molecular conformations with a (quasi) figure‐of‐eight topology as a result of the conjugation patterns of 2,2’,7,7’‐spirobifluorenyl in 1 and triarylamine‐coupled aza[7]helicene‐based building blocks in 2. This electronic nature of redox‐active, carbazole‐rich backbones enabled these macrocycles to be readily oxidized chemically and electrochemically, leading to the sequential production of a series of positively charged polycationic open‐shell cyclophanes. Their redox‐dependent electronic states of the resulting multispin polyradicals have been characterized by VT‐ESR, UV/Vis‐NIR absorption and spectroelectrochemical measurements. The singlet (ΔES‐T=−1.29 kcal mol−1) and a nearly degenerate singlet‐triplet ground state (ΔES−T(calcd)=−0.15 kcal mol−1 and ΔES−T(exp)=0.01 kcal mol−1) were proved for diradical dications 12+2⋅ and 22+2⋅, respectively. Our work provides an experimental proof for the construction of electron‐donating new chiral nanorings, and more importantly for highly charged polyradicals with potential applications in chirospintronics and organic conductors.
Synthesis of Ag @CuO nanocomposites supported by reduced graphene oxide nanosheets: harnessing photocatalytic degradation of naphthol blue black dye
Authors: Kousar Fakhra , Noor Umar , Farid Muhammad Fayyaz , Ahmed Toheed , Ali Azam
Published: February 2024

The significance of utilizing photocatalysts to degrade toxic dyes and microbes has grown in recent years. It has been demonstrated as a successful method for utilizing light through hybrid photocatalysts to break down harmful organic molecules. This study aims to investigate the potential applications of CuO–Ag/rGO nanocomposites in environmental remediation. The nanocomposites were synthesized by incorporating Ag and CuO nanoparticles onto rGO nanosheets via hydrothermal method. The nanocomposites that resulted were thoroughly characterized using various analytical techniques to determine their chemical structure, morphology, crystallinity, and photocatalytic application. The degradation efficiency of naphthol black blue (NBB) dye under visible light irradiation was used to assess the photocatalytic performance of the nanocomposites. It was revealed that 80.2%, 90.3%, and 97.3% of NBB dye degraded as a result of enhanced photocatalytic activity of synthesized CuO–Ag/rGO. The research provides valuable insights into the design and development of advanced nanomaterials for efficient and sustainable wastewater treatment applications.