bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A critical review of polymer support‐based shape‐stabilized phase change materials for thermal energy storage applications
Authors: Bidiyasar Rahul , Kumar Rohitash , Jakhar Narendra
Published: May 2024

Phase change materials (PCMs) have drawn considerable attention in recent years due to their capability of storing and releasing thermal energy during phase transformation. However, traditional PCMs face challenges like limited thermal conductivity, leakage while phase transformation from solid to liquid, thermal degradation, and durability. Researchers have concentrated on creating shape‐stabilized PCMs (SSPCMs) employing polymers as the supporting matrix to overcome these difficulties and incorporating highly thermally conductive additives to improve thermal conductivity. Compared to conventional PCMs, polymer‐based SSPCMs are often more flexible, lightweight, and durable and may be easily customized according to specific applications. Various factors like PCM loading, thermal cyclability, cost‐effectiveness and environmental concerns must be considered while constructing polymer‐based SSPCMs. This review paper comprehensively explored various polymers, including polyurethane, polyacrylates, polyolefin, and so on, as promising supporting materials for SSPCMs due to their relatively high mechanical strength, compatibility with PCM, excellent thermal stability, and chemical resistance. Natural polymers like chitosan, cellulose, and starch are also considered for eco‐friendly solutions. We have also discussed about specific properties of each polymer, their cost‐effectiveness, and the environmental impact while developing such SSPCMs to guide researchers in material selection. Applications of polymer‐based SSPCMs in solar energy storage, medical devices, building materials, electronics, transportation industry, and waste heat recovery are briefly discussed. Finally, some future development areas have been discussed to attract the attention of new researchers in this field. The information provided in this review will assist readers in understanding polymer‐based SSPCM and selecting their desired polymer for support material with diverse application methods.
Macrophage proteomic analysis of covalent immobilization of hyaluronic acid and graphene oxide on CoCr alloy in a tribocorrosive environment
Authors: Sánchez‐López L. , Chico B. , García‐Alonso Maria Cristina , Lozano Rosa M.
Published: May 2024

In this work, a sequential covalent immobilization of graphene oxide (GO) and hyaluronic acid (HA) is performed to obtain a biocompatible wear‐resistant nanocoating on the surface of the biomedical grade cobalt‐chrome (CoCr) alloy. Nanocoated CoCr surfaces were characterized by Raman spectroscopy and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in 3 g/L HA electrolyte. Tribocorrosion tests of the nanocoated CoCr surfaces were carried out in a pin on flat tribometer. The biological response of covalently HA/GO biofunctionalized CoCr surfaces with and without wear‐corrosion processes was studied through the analysis of the proteome of macrophages. Raman spectra revealed characteristic bands of GO and HA on the functionalized CoCr surfaces. The electrochemical response by EIS showed a stable and protective behavior over 23 days in the simulated biological environment. HA/GO covalently immobilized on CoCr alloy is able to protect the surface and reduce the wear volume released under tribocorrosion tests. Unsupervised classification analysis of the macrophage proteome via hierarchical clustering and principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the covalent functionalization on CoCr enhances the macrophage biocompatibility in vitro. On the other hand, disruption of the HA/GO nanocoating by tribocorrosion processes induced a macrophage proteome which was differently clustered and was distantly located in the PCA space. In addition, tribocorrosion induced an increase in the percentage of upregulated and downregulated proteins in the macrophage proteome, revealing that disruption of the covalent nanocoating impacts the macrophage proteome. Although macrophage inflammation induced by tribocorrosion of HA/GO/CoCr surfaces is observed, it is ameliorated by the covalently grafting of HA, which provides immunomodulation by eliciting downregulations in characteristic pro‐inflammatory signaling involved in inflammation and aseptic loosening of CoCr joint arthroplasties. Covalent HA/GO nanocoating on CoCr provides potential applications for in vivo joint prostheses led a reduced metal‐induced inflammation and degradation by wear‐corrosion.
Synthesis and characterization of TiNbZrMo medium‐entropy bio‐composites: Microstructure, mechanical properties, and in vitro degradation
Authors: Say Yakup
Published: May 2024

This study reports the synthesis and characterization of hydroxyapatite (HA)‐based bio‐composites reinforced with varying amounts (by weight, 1–15 wt.%) of bio‐medium entropy alloy (BioMEA) for load‐bearing implant applications. BioMEA powders consisting of Ti, Nb, Zr, and Mo were mechanically alloyed for 100 h and subsequently added to HA using powder metallurgy techniques. To show the effect of BioMEA, the microstructure, density, and mechanical tests have been conducted and the synthesized BioMEA was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), x‐ray diffractometer (XRD), and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. In addition, in vitro degradation behavior and bioactivity analyses of bio‐composites have been conducted. XRD analysis revealed the formation of BioMEA after 20 h of mechanical alloying. The highest density value of 2.47 g/cm3 was found in 15 wt.% BioMEA‐reinforced bio‐composite. The addition of BioMEA reinforcement led to a significant increase in hardness and tensile strength values, with the highest values observed at 15 wt.% reinforcement. Compression tests demonstrated a significant increase in compressive strength and deformation capability of the bio‐composites with the highest values observed at 15 wt.% BioMEA addition. The highest toughness of 7.68 kJ/m2 was measured in 10 wt.% MEA‐reinforced bio‐composites. The produced bio‐composite materials have an elastic modulus between 3.5–5.5 GPa, which may provide a solution to the stress shielding problems caused by the high elastic modulus of metallic implant materials. The most severe degradation occurred in 15 wt.% MEA‐reinforced bio‐composites, and the effect of degradation caused a decrease in Ca and an increase in Ti‐Ni‐Zr‐Mo in all bio‐composites. These findings suggest that HA/BioMEA bio‐composites have the potential to be developed as advanced biomaterials with moderate mechanical and biological properties for load‐bearing implant applications.
Noninvasive therapy of brain cancer using a unique systemic delivery methodology with a cancer terminator virus
Authors: Bhoopathi Praveen , Mannangatti Padmanabhan , Pradhan Anjan K. , Kumar Amit , Maji Santanu , Lang Frederick F. , Klibanov Alexander L. , Madan Esha , Cavenee Webster K. , Keoprasert Timothy , Sun Dong , Bjerkvig Rolf , Thorsen Frits , Gogna Rajan , Das Swadesh K. , Emdad Luni , Fisher Paul B.
Published: May 2024

Primary, glioblastoma, and secondary brain tumors, from metastases outside the brain, are among the most aggressive and therapeutically resistant cancers. A physiological barrier protecting the brain, the blood–brain barrier (BBB), functions as a deterrent to effective therapies. To enhance cancer therapy, we developed a cancer terminator virus (CTV), a unique tropism‐modified adenovirus consisting of serotype 3 fiber knob on an otherwise Ad5 capsid that replicates in a cancer‐selective manner and simultaneously produces a potent therapeutic cytokine, melanoma differentiation‐associated gene‐7/interleukin‐24 (MDA‐7/IL‐24). A limitation of the CTV and most other viruses, including adenoviruses, is an inability to deliver systemically to treat brain tumors because of the BBB, nonspecific virus trapping, and immune clearance. These obstacles to effective viral therapy of brain cancer have now been overcome using focused ultrasound with a dual microbubble treatment, the focused ultrasound‐double microbubble (FUS‐DMB) approach. Proof‐of‐principle is now provided indicating that the BBB can be safely and transiently opened, and the CTV can then be administered in a second set of complement‐treated microbubbles and released in the brain using focused ultrasound. Moreover, the FUS‐DMB can be used to deliver the CTV multiple times in animals with glioblastoma  growing in their brain thereby resulting in a further enhancement in survival. This strategy permits efficient therapy of primary and secondary brain tumors enhancing animal survival without promoting harmful toxic or behavioral side effects. Additionally, when combined with a standard of care therapy, Temozolomide, a further increase in survival is achieved. The FUS‐DMB approach with the CTV highlights a noninvasive strategy to treat brain cancers without surgery. This innovative delivery scheme combined with the therapeutic efficacy of the CTV provides a novel potential translational therapeutic approach for brain cancers.
Predictive role of early treatment dynamics of HBV RNA and HBcrAg for HBeAg seroconversion in children with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Lai Xin , OuYang Wenxian , Li Shuangjie , Qiu Jun , Zhang Hui , Jiang Tao , Qin Xiaomei , Tang Lian , Gu Yingping , Yao Zhenzhen , Peng Songxu
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to assess the predictive capacity of emerging serological markers, serum HBV RNA and HBcrAg, for HBeAg seroconversion in children with HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Treatment‐naïve HBeAg‐positive CHB children who admitted to the Liver Disease Center of Hunan Children's Hospital between April 2021 and September 2022 and received treatment with the combined entecavir and interferon‐alpha treatment were recruited. Serum HBV RNA and HBcrAg were measured at baseline and Weeks 12, 24, and 48 of treatment. Our study showed that serum HBV RNA (HR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.56–0.91, p = 0.006), HBcrAg (HR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.43–0.84, p = 0.003), and HBsAg (HR = 0.49, 95%CI: 0.36–0.69, p < 0.001) at Week 12 were independent predictors of HBeAg seroconversion. ROC curve analysis presented that serum HBV RNA decline value (ΔHBV RNA) at Week 36 and HBcrAg decline value (ΔHBcrAg) at Week 12 (AUC = 0.871, p = 0.003 and AUC = 0.810, p = 0.003, respectively) could effectively predict HBeAg seroconversion. Furthermore, the optimal critical values were determined and the children with ΔHBV RNA > 3.759 log10 copies/mL at Week 36 or ΔHBcrAg >0.350 log10 U/mL at Week 12 more likely to achieve HBeAg seroconversion. The serum HBV RNA and HBcrAg provide new insights into the treatment of CHB in children. Early assessment of serum HBV RNA and HBcrAg during treatment can assist clinical decision‐making and optimize individualized therapeutic approaches.
Increased occurrence of two intrinsic atmospheric circulations in Asia during the boreal summer
Authors: Oh Sae‐Yoon , Yeh Sang‐Wook , Jeong Yong‐Cheol , Song Hajoon , Lee Min‐Hee
Published: May 2024

The k‐means clustering of reanalysis datasets is used to classify the intrinsic atmospheric circulation in Asia based on the daily geopotential height of 500 hPa during the boreal summer (June, July and August) for 1958–2020. Among the total clusters of atmospheric circulation patterns in Asia, two distinct clusters of atmospheric circulation are characterized by a significant increasing trend in occurrence. They correspond to different zonal wave numbers (1–2 vs. 3–4) of atmospheric circulation in the mid‐to‐high latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere, and their associated sea surface temperature structures are not the same in the tropical Pacific and the North Atlantic. Further analysis indicates that two clusters of atmospheric circulation alter the amount of summer monsoon precipitation in East Asia, and an increasing amount of precipitation in southern China in recent decades could be explained by the combined effect of an increasing trend in the frequency of occurrence of two clusters of atmospheric circulation. Finally, a long‐term simulation of the Community Earth System Model version 2 suggests that anthropogenic forcing may be responsible for the increasing trend of occurrence of the two atmospheric circulations in Asia.
3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)‐assisted psychotherapy: what the pharmacist needs to know
Authors: Gallo Alexander T. , Fitzgerald Paul B.
Published: May 2024

Purpose of Review

On 1 July 2023, the Therapeutic Goods Administration approved 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)‐assisted psychotherapy for the treatment of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Accordingly, the purpose of this review is to provide an overview of MDMA and what pharmacists should know as this treatment emerges.

Sources of Information

EMBASE, MEDLINE, and CINAHL databases were searched to provide an overview narrative synthesis of the literature on MDMA, relevant to pharmacists.

Key Findings

Cytochrome P450 2D6 is involved in the metabolic pathway of MDMA, an enzyme inhibited by a number of drugs used in the pharmacological management of PTSD (e.g. selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). Co‐administration of these drugs with MDMA can lead to increases in plasma MDMA concentrations. Additionally, inhibition of the serotonin transporter can inhibit the uptake of MDMA into the presynaptic terminal, dampening the effects of MDMA and potentially, limiting the effectiveness of MDMA‐assisted psychotherapy. Accordingly, these drugs are typically withdrawn prior to treatment with MDMA. While selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor/serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor drugs with MDMA are unlikely to cause serotonin toxicity, monoamine oxidase inhibitors can. Other drugs, such as caffeine, alcohol, over‐the‐counter medicines, and complimentary/alternative medicines, can also interact with MDMA.

Conclusion

With a detailed knowledge of the pharmacology of MDMA, pharmacists may play a role in MDMA‐assisted psychotherapy by collecting a detailed medication history and assisting clinicians in the withdrawal of interacting medicines.
Amino acids‐based deep eutectic solvents as additives for improved enantioseparation in capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Zhang Chengchen , Ma Xiaofei , Gu Yan
Published: May 2024

In this study, several amino acids deep eutectic solvents were prepared using L‐valine and L‐leucine as hydrogen bond acceptors, and L‐lactic acid and glycerol as hydrogen bond donors. These amino acids' deep eutectic solvents were first used as buffer additives to construct several synergistic systems along with maltodextrin in capillary electrophoresis for the enantioseparations of four racemic drugs. Compared with single maltodextrin system, the separations of model drugs in the synergistic systems were significantly improved. Some key parameters affecting chiral separation such as maltodextrin concentration, deep eutectic solvent concentration, buffer pH, and applied voltage were optimized. In order to further understand the specific mechanism of the amino acids deep eutectic solvents in improving chiral separation, we first calculated the binding constants of maltodextrin with enantiomers using the capillary electrophoresis method in the two separation modes, respectively. We also used molecular simulation to calculate the binding free energy of maltodextrin with enantiomers. It is the first time that amino acids deep eutectic solvents were used for enantioseparation in capillary electrophoresis, which will greatly promote the development of deep eutectic solvents in the field of chiral separation.
In‐syringe homogeneous liquid‐phase microextraction followed by filtration‐based phase separation for on‐site extraction of chloroanilines from water samples
Authors: Yıldız Elif , Çabuk Hasan
Published: May 2024

This study introduces a new in‐syringe homogeneous liquid‐phase microextraction method for the rapid on‐site extraction of chloroanilines from water samples. Extraction was performed using a plastic syringe, eliminating the use of any electrical power source. Di‐(2‐ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid (DEHPA) served as the extractant. The process initially involved dissolving DEHPA in an alkaline solution to obtain a homogeneous solution. Subsequently, the sodium salt of DEHPA was precipitated by salting‐out, and the resulting heterogeneous mixture was filtered using a syringe filter. The precipitate containing the analytes was then dissolved in methanol for analysis by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Under optimal conditions, extraction recovery for chloroanilines ranged from 26% to 71%. Method linearity was evaluated within a concentration range of 1.0–100 µg/L, resulting in coefficients of determination exceeding 0.9987 for all analytes. Method detection limits ranged from 0.28 to 0.41 µg/L. Intra and inter‐day precision values were below 9.5% and 10.8%, respectively. The developed method was applied to determine chloroanilines in real waters, yielding acceptable recoveries ranging from 80% to 109% for spiked tap, rain, and stream waters. Additionally, the method was successfully employed for on‐site extraction of target contaminants, demonstrating no statistically significant differences compared to laboratory results.
Update on chiral recognition mechanisms in separation science
Authors: Scriba Gerhard K. E.
Published: May 2024

The stereospecific analysis of chiral molecules is an important issue in many scientific fields. In separation sciences, this is achieved via the formation of transient diastereomeric complexes between a chiral selector and the selectand enantiomers driven by molecular interactions including electrostatic, ion‐dipole, dipole‐dipole, van der Waals or π‐π interactions as well as hydrogen or halogen bonds depending on the nature of selector and selectand. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and molecular modeling methods are currently the most frequently applied techniques to understand the selector‐selectand interactions at a molecular level and to draw conclusions on the chiral separation mechanism. The present short review summarizes some of the recent achievements for the understanding of the chiral recognition of the most important chiral selectors combining separation techniques with molecular modeling and/or spectroscopic techniques dating between 2020 and early 2024. The selectors include polysaccharide derivatives, cyclodextrins, macrocyclic glycopeptides, proteins, donor‐acceptor type selectors, ion‐exchangers, crown ethers, and molecular micelles. The application of chiral ionic liquids and chiral deep eutectic solvents, as well as further selectors, are also briefly addressed. A compilation of all published literature on chiral selectors has not been attempted.
Rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry: A survey through 15 years of applications
Authors: Cafarella Cinzia , Mangraviti Domenica , Rigano Francesca , Dugo Paola , Mondello Luigi
Published: May 2024

Rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry (REIMS) is a relatively recent MS technique explored in many application fields, demonstrating high versatility in the detection of a wide range of chemicals, from small molecules (phenols, amino acids, di‐ and tripeptides, organic acids, and sugars) to larger biomolecules, that is, phospholipids and triacylglycerols. Different sampling devices were used depending on the analyzed matrix (liquid or solid), resulting in distinct performances in terms of automation, reproducibility, and sensitivity. The absence of laborious and time‐consuming sample preparation procedures and chromatographic separations was highlighted as a major advantage compared to chromatographic methods. REIMS was successfully used to achieve a comprehensive sample profiling according to a metabolomics untargeted analysis. Moreover, when a multitude of samples were available, the combination with chemometrics allowed rapid sample differentiation and the identification of discriminant features. The present review aims to provide a survey of literature reports based on the use of such analytical technology, highlighting its mode of operation in different application areas, ranging from clinical research, mostly focused on cancer diagnosis for the accurate identification of tumor margins, to the agri‐food sector aiming at the safeguard of food quality and security.
Gifts that give twice are not twice as nice: Consumers avoid socially responsible gifts for picky recipients
Authors: Chin Shih‐Chun (Daniel) , Wang TzuShuo Ryan , Ho Cony Ming‐Shen
Published: May 2024

Gift decisions are challenging. Consumers need to gauge their recipients' preferences—a task that could be especially tough when the recipients are picky. In addition, gift decisions involve consideration of many gift attributes, such as whether the gifts also support worthy causes (i.e., socially responsible gifts). In this research, we examine how givers' decision to give socially responsible gifts is impacted by how picky the recipients are. Five studies provide convergent evidence that gift‐givers are less likely to choose socially responsible gifts for picky recipients because they are perceived as lower in interpersonal warmth. Supporting our theory, the effect attenuates for gift‐givers attend less to interpersonal warmth (i.e., high in social dominance orientation) and when cues indicating recipient warmth are salient. We conclude by discussing the contributions to the gift‐giving and consumer pickiness literature and the practical implications for marketers promoting socially responsible gifts.
Diagnosis of Arboleda‐Tham syndrome by whole‐exome sequencing in an Asian girl with severe developmental delay
Authors: Wang Qingran , Zhang Yujiao , Li Li , Yang Ning
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aims to report a severe phenotype of Arboleda‐Tham syndrome in a 20‐month‐old girl, characterized by global developmental delay, distinct facial features, intellectual disability. Arboleda‐Tham syndrome is known for its wide phenotypic spectrum and is associated with truncating variants in the KAT6A gene.

Methods

To diagnose this case, a combination of clinical phenotype assessment and whole‐exome sequencing technology was employed. The genetic analysis involved whole‐exome sequencing, followed by confirmation of the identified variant through Sanger sequencing.

Results

The whole‐exome sequencing revealed a novel de novo frameshift mutation c.3048del (p.Leu1017Serfs*17) in the KAT6A gene, which is classified as likely pathogenic. This mutation was not found in the ClinVar and HGMD databases and was not present in her parents. The mutation leads to protein truncation or activation of nonsense‐mediated mRNA degradation. The mutation is located within exon 16, potentially leading to protein truncation or activation of nonsense‐mediated mRNA degradation. Protein modeling suggested that the de novo KAT6A mutation might alter hydrogen bonding and reduce protein stability, potentially damaging the protein structure and function.

Conclusion

This study expands the understanding of the genetic basis of Arboleda‐Tham syndrome, highlighting the importance of whole‐exome sequencing in diagnosing cases with varied clinical presentations. The discovery of the novel KAT6A mutation adds to the spectrum of known pathogenic variants and underscores the significance of this gene in the syndrome's pathology.
Quantitative evaluation of factors influencing the 3 Hz repetitive nerve stimulation test in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Zhang Jinghong , Yang Fei , Li Mao , Zhu Yahui , Huang Xusheng
Published: May 2024

Introduction/Aims

Previous studies have suggested that treatments targeting the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) may play a role in the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, factors impacting repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS), a technique to evaluate NMJ function, have yet to be fully elucidated. We aimed to identify independent factors contributing to the decremental response of the accessory nerve and evaluated its value in ALS clinical practice.

Methods

A total of 626 patients who were diagnosed with ALS and underwent 3 Hz RNS tests on the accessory nerve were enrolled. Data on their clinical and electrophysiological indicators were divided into a training set (collected from June 2016 to December 2022) and a test set (collected from January to August 2023). Stepwise regression was used in independent variable selection and model building.

Results

Forty‐two percent of patients had a decrement larger than 10% and 24% had a decrement larger than 15%. Onset age, sex, onset site, forced vital capacity (FVC) and motor unit potential (MUP) duration were independent factors contributing to the results of the RNS test. MUP duration had the greatest impact on decremental response, followed by FVC and onset age. The decremental response in females was larger than in males. Upper limb onset was found to contribute more to the decrement than lower limb or bulbar onset.

Discussion

In patients with ALS, NMJ safety factor is reduced during re‐innervation. Decremental response is affected by multiple factors, which needs to be considered in clinical trials targeting the NMJ in these patients.
Strategies for optimizing interfacial thermal resistance of thermally conductive hexagonal boron nitride/polymer composites: A review
Authors: Jia Pingping , An Lulu , Yu Lang , Pan Yaokun , Fan Huiqing , Qin Luchang
Published: May 2024

With the continuous development of high‐end electronic information technologies such as 5G communications, thermal management is an urgent issue in the electronic and circuit industries due to the miniaturization, functionalization and integration. Recently, polymer‐based composites with the fillers of hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) have been regarded as promising candidates resulting from their excellent thermal conductivity (TC), good insulation and remarkable comprehensive properties. However, the high surface inertness of h‐BN itself, incompatibility with matrix and other fillers and mismatch of phonon‐spectrum will bring about the matrix/filler and filler/filler interfacial thermal resistance (ITR), which will greatly decline the TC of the composites, and limit their thermal management ability. Therefore, how to design, regulate and improve the interfacial states in composites and eventually enhance the TC is a current challenge. Researchers have made great effort to reduce the ITR of the composites to improve their TC. However, a comprehensive summary and analysis of researches on the improvement methods of the interface states in composites in the past 3 years is still lacking. In this work, the commonly used mechanism models, and simulation methods for calculating and predicting TC was summarized. From perspectives of Synthesis of h‐BNNs, modification, orientation, bridging and three‐dimensional structures construction, we reviewed strategies for improving the interface states in composites, and focused on the ITR regulation and TC improvement. The improvement effects of various methods on TC were compared. The development trend of high TC composite materials was prospected.

Highlights

Crystallinity, defect, size, flatness, thickness of hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets (BNNSs) affect interfacial thermal resistance (ITR).

Nature of interaction between adjacent layers of BNNS need exploited.

Interface and defect are root cause of extra phonon scattering.

Shape, density, surface area, distribution and compatibility reduce ITR.

Theory, model, simulation methods need developed on different levels.
Design, preparation, and mechanical properties of glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic self‐anchor plate cable exposed in alkaline solution environment
Authors: Zhang Zhonghui , Ji Qikang , Guo Zhengyue , Li Chenggao , Guo Rui , Tian Jingwei , Zhang Zhuo , He Taipeng , Xian Guijun
Published: May 2024

The reliable anchorage and long‐term durability of high‐performance fiber reinforced polymer composites were the decisive factors for engineering applications owing to the anisotropy of materials and the complexity of service environment. In this paper, an innovative glass fiber reinforced polypropylene (GFRPP) self‐anchor plate cable was developed to utilize the high toughness/durability of thermoplastic resin and self‐anchor load‐bearing system. The effects of different reinforcement methods and cable arc angles (10°, 20°, and 30°) on mechanical properties of plate cable were investigated. Water absorption behavior and mechanical properties immersed in alkali solution were tested to evaluate its long‐term service behavior. The thermogravimetric and surface morphology analysis were conducted to reveal the performance evolution mechanism. The results showed through the combination of secondary melting, carbon fiber winding confinement and epoxy reinforcements, the splitting failure of transition zone and interlaminar cracking failure of straight zone for plate cable were effectively avoided. The tensile strength retention of plate cable for arc angles of 10°, 20° and 30° were 45.6%, 41.3%, and 34.0% of GFRPP plate, respectively. Larger arc angle increased the curvature of arc‐straight transition zone and stress concentration near the straight section, leading to interlaminar splitting failure of plate cable at weak transition zone. The tensile strength of plate cable with the immersion time deteriorated obviously until the lowest retention of 29.7%. The degradation mechanism was mainly due to the etching of glass fibers in alkali solution and the formation of pores and internal defects, including fiber/resin interface debonding and resin swelling. The research results were of significance for solving the anchoring problems and promoting the long‐term service reliability in bridge applications.

Highlights

The mold can realize reliable molding of glass fiber reinforced polypropylene cables after the reinforcements.

The tensile strength retention of plate cable was up to 34.0%–45.6% of plate.

Larger arc angle increased the stress concentration near the straight section.

Non‐polar polypropylene plate was proved to have better hydrophobic performance.

The degradation mechanism of plate cable in alkali solution was revealed.
The effectiveness of automated adjustment of inspired oxygen in preterm infants receiving respiratory support compared with manual: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Yihan , Du Yuxuan , Shi Yuan
Published: May 2024

Preterm infants may need supplemental oxygen due to immature lungs. Regardless of the type of oxygen therapy used, bedside clinicians frequently adjust the FiO2 level. Automatic oxygen management is progressively developing as a viable alternative to these corrections. The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of automated versus manual oxygen control in preterm infants receiving respiratory support. All the studies were searched from PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI, Wan Fang, VIP, and CBM on 7 May 2022. PICOS criteria were as follows: (P) participants were preterm infants receiving respiratory support; (I) intervention was automatic oxygen control; (C) comparator mode was manual oxygen control; (O) the primary outcome was the percentage of time within the target pulse oxygen saturation range; (S) randomized clinical trials. Sixteen studies were included in this meta‐analysis. The results showed that automated oxygen control can increase the percentage of time spent within the target SpO2 range while reducing the percentage of time spent above the target SpO2 range, the percentage time of hypoxemia, and manual FiO2 adjustments/hour. No significant difference was observed in the percentage of time spent below the target SpO2 range, incidence of bradycardia, and the mean SpO2 or mean FiO2 level. Automatic oxygen control can improve preterm infants' oxygen saturation, reduce periods of hypoxemia and the percentage of time spent above the target SpO2 range, and ease the workload of medical staff without affecting the mean FiO2 and mean SpO2 levels.
Charge Carrier Transport Mechanism through Different Oxides for (n) Poly‐Si/Siox Fired Passivating Contacts
Authors: Okker Tobias , Glatthaar Raphael , Seren Sven , Hahn Giso , Terheiden Barbara
Published: May 2024

In recent years the mechanism of carrier transport through a junction of polycrystalline silicon (poly‐Si) on an interface oxide has been extensively discussed for passivating contacts of crystalline silicon‐based solar cells fabricated along the well‐established high temperature route. In the fired passivating contact (FPC) approach, no extended crystallization is foreseen which also modifies the properties of the junction. Herein, investigation of atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposited (APCVD), phosphorus‐doped (n) poly‐Si is done, which is annealed at different temperatures and durations following the FPC approach. Symmetric lifetime samples show the passivation potential of the FPC approach with implied open circuit voltages (iVOC) values of up to 736 mV. Temperature‐dependent specific contact resistivity measurements applying the transfer length method on differently grown interface oxides are used to identify tunneling or pinhole transport, or a combination of both. It is found that a transition from tunneling to pinhole transport surprisingly takes place already for annealing durations of a few seconds and is primarily impacted by annealing temperature instead of duration. Pinhole magnification studies via tetramethylammonium etching and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirm the existence of pinholes in the interfacial oxides.
Exploiting new strategies in combating head and neck carcinoma: A comprehensive review on phytochemical approaches passing through PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Iranpanah Amin , Majnooni Mohammad Bagher , Biganeh Hossein , Amirian Roshanak , Rastegari‐Pouyani Mohsen , Filosa Rosanna , Cheang Wai San , Fakhri Sajad , Khan Haroon
Published: May 2024

Recently, malignant neoplasms have growingly caused human morbidity and mortality. Head and neck cancer (HNC) constitutes a substantial group of malignancies occurring in various anatomical regions of the head and neck, including lips, mouth, throat, larynx, nose, sinuses, oropharynx, hypopharynx, nasopharynx, and salivary glands. The present study addresses the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway as a possible therapeutic target in cancer therapy. Finding new multitargeting agents capable of modulating PI3K/Akt/mTOR and cross‐linked mediators could be viewed as an effective strategy in combating HNC. Recent studies have introduced phytochemicals as multitargeting agents and rich sources for finding and developing new therapeutic agents. Phytochemicals have exhibited immense anticancer effects, including targeting different stages of HNC through the modulation of several signaling pathways. Moreover, phenolic/polyphenolic compounds, alkaloids, terpenes/terpenoids, and other secondary metabolites have demonstrated promising anticancer activities because of their diverse pharmacological and biological properties like antiproliferative, antineoplastic, antioxidant, and anti‐inflammatory activities. The current review is mainly focused on new therapeutic strategies for HNC passing through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway as new strategies in combating HNC.
Novel quantized iterative learning control based on spherical polar coordinates
Authors: Huo Niu , Shen Dong , Wang JinRong
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the iterative learning control method for discrete‐time systems with data quantization, and it employs a quantizer based on spherical polar coordinates. The quantizer uses spherical polar coordinates to transform an unquantized signal into one with a predetermined quantization level. The quantization capability is dependent on the size of the support sphere, which is dynamically adjustable. In the scenarios of system output quantization, general quantization, and tracking error quantization, the learning control schemes are developed with consideration of the smallest sphere quantization features. The radii of the support spheres are designed independently based on the characteristics of the quantized signals (system output, control input, tracking error). The findings suggest that the system can achieve a bounded error convergence in the scenarios of system output and general quantization. In the context of quantization in tracking error, it is achievable to attain tracking performance with zero error. The example of a permanent magnet synchronous motor is provided to illustrate the findings of the study.
A complete homogenization of water temperatures during widespread flooding
Authors: Myrvold Knut Marius
Published: May 2024

Thermal regimes can vary substantially across small geographic distances in rivers, and the factors responsible for creating a diverse thermal landscape can operate on multiple spatial and temporal extents. This short communication reports on the temperature dynamics in seasonal, off‐channel habitats in the lower reach of the Gudbrandsdalslågen River in South‐Eastern Norway (61 oN). The river is ordinarily characterized by a snowmelt‐driven hydrograph but was subjected to widespread, rain‐driven flooding in August 2023. At the onset of spring runoff in mid‐May, the differences between cooler and warmer sites exceeded 5°C (range 3–10°C) and continued to diverge until early July (range 6–21°C). Differences persisted through the regular rain‐driven spates in summer but were entirely diminished during the flood which started on August 7. By August 10, the water temperatures at all 14 sites had converged at 12.3°C. The homogenization was likely the result of the sheer volume of runoff through Gudbrandsdalslågen, overriding any locally modulating factors such as groundwater inputs and isolation from the main channel. This suggests a relatively strong influence of locally modulating factors in the study area under normal hydrological conditions in summer, and a complete dominance of runoff temperature during the flooding event. Disruptive events such as flooding can hence periodically revert the thermal heterogeneity by changing the relative importance of the factors that create patchy thermal regimes, with potential ramifications for aquatic organisms that occupy relatively warmer habitat patches in summer.
Towards a cleaner and sustainable Europe and Central Asia: An investigation of the logistics‐environment nexus
Authors: Shamout Mohamed Dawood
Published: May 2024

The logistics industry is the backbone of global trade and is crucial for the attainment of economic progress across the world. However, the industry involves activities that increase the consumption of energy resources including fossil fuels, which harms the environment. Thus, with a special focus on Europe and Central Asia, this study explores the logistics‐environment by evaluating the impact of logistics performance (LP) on environmental performance (EP) while controlling for key macroeconomic indicators such as income, trade openness, foreign direct investment, and industrialization. The motivation for this study is derived from the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs‐11 and 13) which highlight sustainability and climate change mitigation. Using Poisson pseudo maximum likelihood with high‐dimensional fixed effects (PPMLHDFE) for 47 European and Central Asian countries over the period 2007–2018, the findings revealed that the overall logistic performance, and some of its components—customs, trade, and transport infrastructure, and tracing and tracking have a significant positive impact on the overall EP, environmental health, and ecosystem vitality. Additionally, the study confirms the detrimental effects of economic growth, trade, and industrialization on environmental quality and health from logistics and supply chain management (SCM) perspectives. Further policy caveats and suggestions are elucidated in the concluding section.
Pressureless Welding of Temperature‐Invariant Multifunctionality Body Based on Hydroxyl‐Functionalized Boron Nitride Nanosheets and Bifunctional Monoethanolamine Cross‐linker
Authors: Cao Chaochao , Yang Jingwen , Yang Shaobo , Yan Song , Liu Chaoze , Wang Dong , Xue Yanming , Qu Xiongwei , Tang Chengchun
Published: May 2024

Bulk hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) ceramics with structural integrity, high‐temperature resistance and low expansion rate are expected for multifunctional applications in extreme conditions. However, due to its sluggish self‐diffusion and intrinsic inertness, it remains a great challenge to overcome high‐energy barrier for h‐BN powder sintering. Herein, a cross‐linking and pressureless‐welding strategy is reported to produce bulk boron nitride nanosheets (BNNSs) ceramics with well‐crystalized and dense B–N covalent‐welding frameworks. The essence of this synthesis strategy lies in the construction of >B─O─H2C─H2C─H2N:→B< bond bridge connection structure among hydroxyl functionalized BNNSs (BNNSs‐OH) using bifunctional monoethanolamine (MEA) as cross‐linker through esterification and intermolecular‐coordination reactions. The prepared BNNSs‐interlaced ceramics have densities not less than 1.2 g cm−3, and exhibit exceptional mechanical robustness and resiliency, excellent thermomechanical stability, ultra‐low linear thermal expansion coefficient of 0.06 ppm °C−1, and high thermal diffusion coefficient of 4.76 mm2 s−1 at 25 °C and 3.72 mm2 s−1 at 450 °C. This research not only reduces the free energy barrier from h‐BN particles to bulk ceramics through facile multi‐step physicochemical reaction, but also stimulates further exploration of multifunctional applications for bulk h‐BN ceramics over a wide temperature range.
Robust Amide‐Linked Fluorinated Covalent Organic Framework for Long‐Term Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalysis
Authors: Jiménez‐Duro Miguel , Martínez‐Periñán Emiliano , Martínez‐Fernández Marcos , Martínez José I. , Lorenzo Encarnación , Segura José L.
Published: May 2024

The high energy demand of the evolving world opens the door to develop more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy sources. Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is a promising candidate, being the 2e− pathway of great interest for the green production of hydrogen peroxide. Metal‐free covalent organic frameworks (COFs) electrocatalysts present a suitable alternative to substitute the noble‐metals more commonly employed in this application. However, the lability of the linkages building up the framework raises an issue for their long‐term use and application in aggressive media. Herein, a stable amide‐linked COF is reported through post‐synthetic modification of a previously reported imine‐linked COF proven to be effective as an electrocatalyst, enhancing its chemical stability and electrochemical response. It is found that after the linkage transformation, the new electrocatalyst displays a higher selectivity toward the H2O2 production (98.5%) and an enhanced turnover frequency of 0.155 s−1, which is among the bests reported to date for metal‐free and COF based electrocatalysts. The results represent a promising step forward for metal‐free non pyrolyzed electrocatalysts, improving their properties through post‐synthetic linkage modification for long‐term operation.
Iron‐doped nanozymes with spontaneous peroxidase‐mimic activity as a promising antibacterial therapy for bacterial keratitis
Authors: Geng Xiwen , Zhang Nan , Li Zhanrong , Zhao Mengyang , Zhang Hongbo , Li Jingguo
Published: May 2024

The development of non‐antibiotic pharmaceuticals with biocompatible and efficient antibacterial properties is of great significance for the treatment of bacterial keratitis. In this study, we have developed antibacterial iron‐doped nanozymes (Fe3+‐doped nanozymes, FNEs) with distinguished capacity to fight against bacterial infections. The iron‐doped nanozymes are composed of Fe3+ doped zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (Fe/ZIF‐8) and polyethylene imide (PEI), which were functionally coated on the surface of Fe/ZIF‐8 and imparted the FNEs with improved water dispersibility and biocompatibility. FNEs possess a significant spontaneous peroxidase‐mimic activity without the need for external stimulation, thus elevating cellular reactive oxygen species level by catalyzing local H2O2 at the infection site and resulting in bacteria damaged to death. FNEs eliminated 100% of Staphylococcus aureus within 6 h, and significantly relieved inflammation and bacterial infection levels in mice bacterial keratitis, exhibiting higher bioavailability and a superior therapeutic effect compared to conventional antibiotic eye drops. In addition, the FNEs would not generate drug resistance, suggesting that FNEs have great potential in overcoming infectious diseases caused by antimicrobial resistant bacteria.
Nanoscale‐Confined Synthesis of 2D Metal Compounds for Electrochemical Applications
Authors: Lee Eunsoo , Jeong Sangyeon , Jeong Yujin , Kim Byeongyoon , Lee Kwangyeol
Published: May 2024

2D metal compounds, such as transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), layered double hydroxides (LDHs), and MXenes, are emerging as important electrocatalyst materials in the transition to a sustainable energy future. Aided by their high surface area, electrical conductivity, and tunable electronic properties, these materials have provided a crucial research thrust in enhancing the efficiency of green hydrogen production, fuel cells, and carbon reduction processes. Most importantly, the synthesis of nanostructured 2D compounds, while challenging, is the key to optimizing their catalytic performance. Recent advancements in this field have highlighted the potential of 2D metal compounds in revolutionizing energy conversion technologies, which entails the discovery of new material compositions, the development of novel synthetic routes, and the integration of these materials into practical energy conversion systems. This review presents an overview of the distinctive characteristics of nanoscale‐confined 2D metal compounds, the challenges encountered in their synthesis, and electrochemical applications.
Silver Cluster Assembled Materials: A Model‐Driven Perspective on Recent Progress, with a Spotlight on Ag12 Cluster Assembly
Authors: Biswas Sourav , Negishi Yuichi
Published: May 2024

The exploration of individual nanoclusters is rapidly advancing, despite stability concerns. To address this challenge, the assembly of cluster nodes through linker molecules has been successfully implemented. However, the linking of the cluster nodes itself introduces a multitude of possibilities, especially when additional factors come into play. While this method proves effective in enhancing material stability, the specific reasons behind its success remain elusive. In our laboratory, we have undertaken extensive studies on Ag cluster‐assembled materials. So, here our goal is to establish a model system that allows for the discernment of various factors, eliminating unnecessary complexities during the linking approach. So, we hope that the systematic discourse presented in here will contribute significantly to future endeavors, helping to set clear priorities, and provide solutions to concerns that arise when working with a model system.