bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D Cold‐Trap Environment Printing for Long‐Cycle Aqueous Zn‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Lu Hongyu , Hu Jisong , Zhang Yan , Zhang Kaiqi , Yan Xiaoying , Li Heqi , Li Jianzhu , Li Yujie , Zhao Jingxin , Xu Bingang
Published: December 2022

Zn powder (Zn‐P)‐based anodes are always regarded as ideal anode candidates for zinc ion batteries owing to their low cost and ease of processing. However, the intrinsic negative properties of Zn‐P‐based anodes such as easy corrosion and uncontrolled dendrite growth have limited their further applications. Herein, a novel 3D cold‐trap environment printing (3DCEP) technology is proposed to achieve the MXene and Zn‐P (3DCEP‐MXene/Zn‐P) anode with highly ordered arrangement. Benefitting from the unique inhibition mechanism of high lattice matching and physical confinement effects within the 3DCEP‐MXene/Zn‐P anode, it can effectively homogenize the Zn2+ flux and alleviate the Zn deposition rate of the 3DCEP‐MXene/Zn‐P anode during Zn plating–stripping. Consequently, the 3DCEP‐MXene/Zn‐P anode exhibits a superior cycling lifespan of 1400 h with high coulombic efficiency of ≈9.2% in symmetric batteries. More encouragingly, paired with MXene and Co doped MnHCF cathode via 3D cold‐trap environment printing (3 DCEP‐MXene/Co‐MnHCF), the 3DCEP‐MXene/Zn‐P//3DCEP‐MXene/Co‐MnHCF full battery delivers high cyclic durability with the capacity retention of 95.7% after 1600 cycles. This study brings an inspired universal pathway to rapidly fabricate a reversible Zn anode with highly ordered arrangement in a cold environment for micro‐zinc storage systems.
Three‐Dimensional Reconstruction of Conductive Filaments in HfOx‐Based Memristor
Authors: Wei Tiantian , Lu Yuyao , Zhang Fan , Tang Jianshi , Gao Bin , Yu Pu , Qian He , Wu Huaqiang
Published: December 2022

HfOx‐based memristor has been studied extensively as one of the most promising memories for the excellent nonvolatile data storage and computing‐in‐memory capabilities. However, the resistive switching mechanism, relying on the formation and rupture of conductive filaments (CFs) during device operations, is still under debate. In this work, the CFs with different morphologies after different operations—forming, set, and reset—are clearly revealed for the first time by 3D reconstruction of conductive atomic force microscopy (c‐AFM) images. Intriguingly, multiple CFs are successfully observed in HfOx‐based memristor devices with three different resistive states. CFs after forming, set, and reset exhibit the typical morphologies of hourglass, inverted‐cone, and short‐cone, respectively. The rupture location of CFs after the reset operation is also observed clearly. These findings reveal the microscopic behaviors underlying the resistive switching, which could pave the road to design and optimize oxide‐based memristors for both memory and computing applications.
High‐Radiance Near‐Infrared Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes with Improved Roll‐Off Degradation
Authors: Yu Maotao , Ji Yongqiang , Yan Haoming , Hu Jinhao , Li Shunde , Xu Hongyu , Chen Peng , Zhao Lichen , Guan Shuzhen , Bi Xiaoyin , Yang Xiaoyu , Jia Shuang , Yi Chang , Luo Deying , Wang Jianpu , Lu Zheng‐Hong , Gong Qihuang , Zhu Rui
Published: December 2022

The external quantum efficiency (EQE) of state‐of‐the‐art near‐infrared perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) is now approaching the limit set by the out‐coupling efficiency. However, there is plenty of room for enhancing these devices’ radiance and the EQE roll‐off. This work reports how conductive and passivating additives construct efficient high‐radiance near‐infrared PeLEDs with improved EQE roll‐off. Specifically, the synergistic effect of 1,4‐phenylenediacetic acid (PDA) and 5‐aminovaleric acid (5‐AVA) is used to regulate the quality of the perovskite emissive layer, thereby enhancing the roll‐off threshold of injection currents (a value at which the device EQE or radiance starts degrading). According to in situ structural evolution analyses from the perovskite precursor to the perovskite crystal, the presence of PDA within the perovskite precursor solution can produce an intermediate phase with 5‐AVA and formanmidinium cation, which can retard the perovskite nucleation and crystal growth, leading to improved perovskite film quality. The resulting champion PeLED delivers among the highest radiance of 505 W sr−1 m−2 and a peak EQE of 17.56%. More importantly, the improved PeLED shows a well‐retained radiance of 80% at a current injection density of up to ≈1800 mA cm−1, opening a new avenue for high‐radiance PeLEDs with improved roll‐off degradation.
Tailored p‐Orbital Delocalization by Diatomic Pt‐Ce Induced Interlayer Spacing Engineering for Highly‐Efficient Ammonia Electrosynthesis
Authors: Chen Dong , Zhang Shaoce , Yin Di , Li Wanpeng , Bu Xiuming , Quan Quan , Lai Zhengxun , Wang Wei , Meng You , Liu Chuntai , Yip SenPo , Chen Fu‐Rong , Zhi Chunyi , Ho Johnny C.
Published: December 2022

Electrochemical nitrate reduction to ammonia (eNO3RR) is a green and appealing method for ammonia synthesis, but is hindered by the multistep chemical reaction and competitive hydrogen generation. Herein, the synthesis of 2D SnS nanosheets with tailored interlayer spacing is reported, including both expansion and compression, through the active diatomic Pt‐Ce pairs. Taking together the experimental results, in situ Raman spectra, and DFT calculations, it is found that the compressed interlayer spacing can tune the electron density of localized p‐orbital in Sn into its delocalized states, thus enhancing the chemical affinity towards NO3− and NO2− but inhibiting hydrogen generation simultaneously. This phenomenon significantly facilitates the rate‐determining step (*NO3→*NO2) in eNO3RR, and realizes an excellent Faradaic efficiency (94.12%) and yield rate (0.3056 mmol cm−2 h−1) for NH3 at −0.5 V versus RHE. This work provides a powerful strategy for tailoring flexible interlayer spacing of 2D materials and opens a new avenue for constructing high‐performance catalysts for ammonia synthesis.
Agrifood system participation and production efficiency among smallholder vegetable farmers in Northern Ghana
Authors: Abdul‐Rahaman Awal , Issahaku Gazali , Ma Wanglin
Published: December 2022

Formalized marketing arrangements between smallholder farmers and produce buyers are gradually replacing spot market transactions in developing countries due to the rapid structural transformation of agrifood systems. This study examines the impact of agrifood system participation on the total value of vegetable production and technical efficiency (TE), using a sample of 423 vegetable farmers from Northern Ghana. We employ propensity score matching and W. Greene's selection bias‐corrected stochastic production frontier methods to correct for observable and unobservable selection bias issues, respectively. We further use a metafrontier model to derive technology gap ratios (TGRs) and meta‐TE for agrifood system participants and nonparticipants. The results reveal that agrifood system participants are about 50% more productive than nonparticipants. In addition, participants have higher meta‐TE (58% vs. 55%) and TGR (98% vs. 94%) than nonparticipants. Variables such as farmer group membership, extension visits, mobile phone ownership, irrigation and road access are the notable correlates of smallholder farmers' participation in agrifood systems. The total value of vegetable production is significantly influenced by fertilizer, agrochemicals, seeds, irrigation, soil fertility, and location‐fixed effects. [EconLit Citations: D24, Q12, Q18]
A diagnosis of Birt–Hogg–Dubé syndrome in individuals with Smith–Magenis syndrome: Recommendation for cancer screening
Authors: Vocke Cathy D. , Fleming Leah R. , Piskorski Anna M. , Amin Ali , Phornphutkul Chanika , de la Monte Suzanne , Vilboux Thierry , Duncan Folami , Pellegrino Joan , Braddock Bonnie , Middelton Lindsay A. , Schmidt Laura S. , Merino Maria J. , Cowen Edward W. , Introne Wendy J. , Linehan W. Marston , Smith Ann C. M.
Published: December 2022

We report a series of four unrelated adults with Smith–Magenis syndrome (SMS) and concomitant features of Birt–Hogg–Dubé (BHD) syndrome based upon haploinsufficiency for FLCN and characteristic renal cell carcinomas and/or evidence of cutaneous fibrofolliculomas. Three of the cases constitute the first known association of histopathologically verified characteristic BHD‐associated renal tumors in adults with SMS; the fourth was identified to have histologically confirmed skin fibrofolliculomas. Molecular analysis documented second‐hit FLCN mutations in two of the three cases with confirmed BHD renal pathology. These cases suggest the need to expand management recommendations for SMS to include kidney cancer surveillance starting at 20 years of age, as per the screening recommendations for BHD syndrome.
Self‐Adaptive Re‐Organization Enables Polythiophene as an Extraordinary Cathode Material for Aluminum‐Ion Batteries with a Cycle Life of 100 000 Cycles
Authors: Zhang Junfei , Wu Yunling , Liu Miao , Huang Lu , Li Yanguang , Wu Yingpeng
Published: December 2022

Aluminum‐ion batteries (AIBs) have attracted great attentions in recent years. Organic materials such as polythiophene (PT) are promising cathode for AIBs. However, the capacity and cyclic stability of conventional organic cathode such as PT are limited by the inadequate degree of reaction and the unstable nature of organic materials. To obtain high‐performance organic cathode, a new PT with the ability of self‐adaptive re‐organization was prepared. During cycling, its molecular chain can be re‐organized, and the polymerization mode will change from Cα−Cα(α‐PT) to Cβ−Cβ(β‐PT). This change leads to smaller steric hindrance and faster kinetics during ion insertion which can lower the reaction energy barrier and stabilize the molecular structure. Benefited by this, AIBs with this cathode can deliver a specific capacity of 180 mAh g−1(@2 A g−1) and a superb stability of 100 000 cycles at 10 A g−1. High energy density and power density can also be achieved with this cathode.
Twisting of Porphyrin by Assembly in a Metal‐Organic Framework yielding Chiral Photoconducting Films for Circularly‐Polarized‐Light Detection
Authors: Li Chun , Schopmans Henrik , Langer Lukas , Marschner Stefan , Chandresh Abhinav , Bürck Jochen , Tsuchiya Youichi , Chihaya Adachi , Wenzel Wolfgang , Bräse Stefan , Kozlowska Mariana , Heinke Lars
Published: December 2022

While materials based on organic molecules usually have either superior optoelectronic or superior chiral properties, the combination of both is scarce. Here, a crystalline chiroptical film based on porphyrin with homochiral side groups is presented. While the dissolved molecule has a planar, thus, achiral porphyrin core, upon assembly in a metal–organic framework (MOF) film, the porphyrin core is twisted and chiral. The close packing and the crystalline order of the porphyrin cores in the MOF film also results in excellent optoelectronic properties. By exciting the Soret band of porphyrin, efficient photoconduction with a high On‐Off‐ratio is realized. More important, handedness‐dependent circularly‐polarized‐light photoconduction with a dissymmetry factor g of 4.3×10−4 is obtained. We foresee the combination of such assembly‐induced chirality with the rich porphyrin chemistry will enable a plethora of organic materials with exceptional chiral and optoelectronic properties.
Selective hydroxyalkoxylation of epoxidized methyl oleate by an amphiphilic ionic liquid catalyst
Authors: Winfield DeMichael D. , Moser Bryan R.
Published: December 2022

Oleic acid is an attractive biobased platform chemical. Precursors for biobased materials can be accessed by epoxidation and subsequent hydroxyalkoxylation of oleic acid. The hydroxyalkoxylation step is conventionally performed with sulfuric acid or a metal catalyst. Due to their high polarity, many ionic liquid catalysts are ineffective for hydroxyalkoxylation of fatty acid derivatives with non‐polar alcohols. In this work, we utilized an amphiphilic ionic liquid catalyst to perform hydroxyalkoxylations of epoxidized methyl oleate. An ionic liquid catalyst based on dimethyl lauryl amine was synthesized and evaluated for this reaction due to its long alkyl group. The amphiphilic nature of the ionic liquid allowed for better miscibility and reactivity compared to other ionic liquids. Several alcohols were used with high yields (≥80%) and selectivity (≥92%), including nonpolar alcohols with longer alkyl chains such as octanol and dodecanol. The high selectivity of these conditions could be advantageous for applications in lubricants, biofuels, or polyol preparation. This work demonstrates a greener alternative to conventional hydroxyalkoxylation catalysts.
Edge Site Catalyzed Vanadyl Oxidation Elucidated byOperandoRaman Spectroscopy
Authors: Radinger Hannes , Bauer Felix , Scheiba Frieder
Published: December 2022

The kinetic processes responsible for the efficient oxidation of dissolved vanadyl oxide species in the positive half‐cell of a vanadium flow battery are far from being understood. Despite recent evidence that the reaction is most strongly favored at hydrogen‐terminated graphite edge sites, a mechanism involving oxygen‐containing surface groups has still been frequently reproduced to date. In this work,operandoRaman spectroscopy follows the reaction at the interface between graphite‐based model electrodes and vanadium‐containing sulfuric acid as the electrolyte. The potential‐dependent growth of different vibrational modes is related to the electrocatalytic activity of the sample and allows to track the oxidation of the electrolyte species. Moreover, the results express vanadium reaction intermediates of dimeric origin only on the edge‐exposed surface of graphite, which exhibits significantly higher electrochemical activity. No interaction with surface oxygen postulated before could be observed for the active electrodes at potentials relevant to the reaction. Instead, a new growing graphite‐related feature shows direct electronic interactions between vanadium ions and carbon atoms during charge transfer.
Self‐control is negatively linked to prosociality in young children
Authors: Barragan‐Jason Gladys , Hopfensitz Astrid
Published: December 2022

Human prosociality is a valuable but also deeply puzzling trait. While several studies suggest that prosociality is an impulsive behavior, others argue that self‐control is necessary to develop prosocial behaviors. Yet, prosociality and self‐control in children have rarely been studied jointly. Here, we measured self‐control (i.e., delay‐of‐gratification) and prosociality (i.e., giving in a dictator game) in 250 4‐ to 6‐year‐old French schoolchildren. Contrary to previous studies, we found a negative relationship between waiting in the delay‐of‐gratification task and giving in the dictator game. The effect was especially pronounced when the partner in the dictator game was unknown compared with giving in a dictator game where the partner was a friend. Our results suggest that self‐control is not always necessary to act prosocially. Future studies investigating whether and how such pattern develops across the lifespan and across cultures are warranted.
Modellierung der TWIST‐Schale des CUBE
Authors: Vakaliuk Iurii
Published: December 2022

Der Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über die wichtigsten Verfahren, die während der Phase der Projektentwicklung im Bereich der numerischen Modellierung und des Entwurfs erarbeitet wurden. Die Dachschalenelemente haben eine verdrehte Form, die zusammen mit der inneren Hohlkammerstruktur eine relativ komplizierte Konfiguration für die Betonvolumina sowie für die verwendete Bewehrung notwendig machten. Daher war es erforderlich, eine maßgeschneiderte numerische Methode zu entwickeln. Dafür wurden hauptsächlich die Softwarelösungen Rhinoceros 3D und Grasshopper 3D für die algorithmische Umgebung verwendet. Der Beitrag gibt darüber hinaus einen Einblick in wichtige Aspekte, die für die Herstellung der Wärmedämmblöcke, der biaxial orientierten Carbonfaserbewehrungsgitter und anderer Teile der tragenden Schalen erforderlich sind. Abschließend wird dargestellt, wie die Zusammenarbeit mit den Partnern des CUBE‐Projekts, insbesondere im Bereich der Tragwerksplanung, aufgebaut wurde.
Acetamidinium bromoplumbate CH3C(NH2)2PbBr3 with 4H BaRuO3 structure
Authors: Lee Hyun‐Jong , Lee Eunji , Cha Ji‐Hyun , Jung Duk‐Young
Published: December 2022

Acetamidinium bromoplumbate, denoted (ACA)PbBr3, was synthesized from acetamidinium bromide and lead bromide in liquid medium under ambient atmosphere. The large radius of the acetamidinium group of (ACA)PbBr3 accommodates the 4H BaRuO3 structure, which has a hexagonal array of infinite face‐shared and corner‐shared [PbBr6]4− units. (ACA)PbBr3 was characterized by single X‐ray diffraction, chemical analyses, thermal analyses, 1H NMR, and FT‐IR spectroscopy.
Severe weather on or near campus can create a storm of legal issues
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: December 2022

Major hurricanes recently ripped through Florida and the southeastern United States, most notably Hurricanes Ian and Nicole. Catastrophic storms and other severe weather events like tornadoes, snowstorms, and earthquakes test colleges’ and universities’ emergency management and preparedness.
A study on finger vein recognition with few samples based on residual connected meta‐learning
Authors: Zhang Ye , Yan Fangpeng , Ji Xiang , Wang Bo , Feng Dingzhong
Published: December 2022

A meta‐learning based method for finger vein recognition with few samples is proposed to overcome the problem of low recognition accuracy caused by the small number and variety of finger vein samples as well as fuzzy vein lines. The method is based on meta‐learning, incorporating multiscale features, and using the idea of residual networks to join meta‐learning to improve the recognition accuracy of finger vein images with few samples; to further improve its recognition ability, a differential map is constructed in the form of a differential between the finger vein image of singular value decomposition and finger vein image. We are the first to apply meta‐learning to the field of finger vein recognition, to our knowledge, and the experiments show that this approach is superior, with recognition accuracy of up to 99.13% for finger vein datasets with few‐shot samples.
The Laccase of Myrothecium roridum VKM F‐3565: A New Look at Fungal Laccase Tolerance to Neutral and Alkaline Conditions**
Authors: Renfeld Zhanna V. , Chernykh Alexey M. , Egorova (Shebanova) Anna D. , Baskunov Boris P. , Gaidina Anastasya S. , Myasoedova Nina M. , Moiseeva Olga V. , Kolomytseva Marina P.
Published: December 2022

Most of the currently known fungal laccases show their maximum activity under acidic environmental conditions. It is known that a decrease in the activity of a typical laccase at neutral or alkaline pH values is the result of an increase in the binding of the hydroxide anion to the T2/T3 copper center, which prevents the transfer of an electron from the T1 Cu to the trinuclear copper center. However, evolutionary pressure has resolved the existing limitations in the catalytic mechanism of laccase, allowing such enzymes to be functionally active under neutral/alkaline pH conditions, thereby giving fungi an advantage for their survival. Combined molecular and biochemical studies, homological modeling, calculation of the electrostatic potential on the Connolly surface at pH 5.0 and 7.0, and structural analysis of the novel alkaliphilic laccase of Myrothecium roridum VKM F‐3565 and alkaliphilic and acidophilic fungal laccases with a known structure allowed a new intramolecular channel near the one of the catalytic aspartate residues at T2‐copper atom to be found. The amino acid residues of alkaliphilic laccases forming this channel can presumably serve as proton donors for catalytic aspartates under neutral conditions, thus ensuring proper functioning. For the first time for ascomycetous laccases, the production of new trimeric products of phenylpropanoid condensation under neutral conditions has been shown, which could have a potential for use in pharmacology.
Prostate adenocarcinoma presenting as diffuse osteolytic metastasis
Authors: Faisal Mohanad , Al‐Mashdali Abdulrahman F. , Jasim Noor , Khalil Mohamed Salem Ismail
Published: December 2022

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers that metastasize to the bone. Bone metastasis is usually osteoblastic, and diffuse osteolytic lesion on presentation is unusual. Here, we are reporting MRI image of patient presented with diffuse osteolytic lesion and found to have metastatic prostate cancer.
Donor to Acceptor Charge Transfer in Carbazole‐based Conjugated Microporous Polymers for Enhanced Visible‐Light‐Driven Photocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Saber Ahmed Fathi , Elewa Ahmed M. , Chou Ho‐Hsiu , EL‐Mahdy Ahmed F. M.
Published: December 2022

Nowadays, conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs) of the donor‐acceptor (D‐A) type show excellent photocatalytic performance in water splitting due to their efficient isolation of light‐induced excitons. The key to this activity lies in the appropriate selection of electron donor and acceptor units. In this paper, we synthesized three D‐A carbazole‐based CMPs and investigated the influence of planarity, electronic structure, crystallinity, and surface area on their photocatalytic efficiency in hydrogen evolution from water. Our CMPs have excellent light collection ability, fast separation rates, and minimal recombination rates for the electron/hole pairs, so an excellent hydrogen evolution rate (HER) was achieved by water reduction. Moreover, the most efficient semiconductor Cz‐4Py CMP, which had the lowest dihedral angle, more suitable LUMO level, semi‐crystalline nature, and largest surface area, showed the best HER up to 8813 μmol g−1 h−1 under visible light with an apparent quantum yield (AQY) of 4.51 % at λ=420 nm. While the HERs for Cz‐4TPT and Cz‐4TzTz CMPs with higher dihedral angle, amorphous nature, and lower surface area were 1702 and 1541 μmol g−1 h−1, respectively. The efficiencies obtained exceed those of many polymeric materials reported for photocatalytic H2O reduction. This work confirms the importance of the molecular design of CMP photocatalysts to optimize their performance in hydrogen release by water dissociation.
Elimination of Dibenzothiophene from Model Gasoline by Binary Biowastes‐Derived Activated Carbon
Authors: Nayyef Akram W. , Fadhil Abdelrahman B.
Published: December 2022

A novel activated carbon (AC) was created from an equal blend of date stones and walnut shells by ZnCl2 chemical activation. The impact of the impregnation and the carbonization conditions on the AC synthesis was investigated. Numerous techniques were used to identify the optimal AC. The best AC sample was created at a 1:1 ZnCl2/feed impregnation ratio, 500 °C, and in 60 min, with a surface area of 1039.20 m2g−1. This AC was employed for the removal of dibenzothiophene (DBT) from model gasoline. Superior removal of DBT (98.18 %) was accomplished using 25 mL DBT solution (200 mg L−1) and an AC dose of 0.35 g at 30 °C for a contact period of 30 min. The Freundlich isotherm and the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model best described the DBT sorption compared to other models.
Reversing the Bond Length Alternation Order in Conjugated Polyenes by Substituent Effects
Authors: Yanai Hikaru , Terajima Yoshihiko , Kleemiss Florian , Grabowsky Simon , Matsumoto Takashi
Published: December 2022

We have synthesised several push‐pull substituted conjugated polyenes and determined their accurate C−C bond lengths and charge‐density distributions by utilising quantum crystallographic techniques. In a series of alkene, dienes, and triene bearing two (trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl (triflyl) groups on the terminal carbon atom, unique reversal of the bond‐length alternation (BLA) order has been observed. This is a pronounced aberration from the molecular structure predicted by the Lewis‐structure‐based neutral resonance structure. Such reversal of BLA order has not been observed in push‐pull compounds bearing conventional electron‐withdrawing groups such as carbonyl and cyano groups instead of triflyl groups. Bonding behaviour of both normal and reversed bond length alternating systems has been revealed by complementary bonding analysis using several bond descriptors based on the experimentally fitted wavefunctions.
Investigation of the candesartan cilexetil antihypertensive drug microencapsulation by PLA‐PVP K30 biodegradable polymers: Experimental optimization and release kinetics modelling
Authors: Chabane Ahmed , Bouchal Fatiha , Hentabli Mohamed , Ayachi Nabila , Slama Houssam Eddine , Rezgui Farouk , Hammoumraoui Lydia
Published: December 2022

Candesartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat hypertension. However, its poor aqueous solubility and oral bioavailability have limited its therapeutic applications. In order to increase bioavailability and control the release of candesartan condensation, microspheres containing biodegradable polymers (polyvinylpyrrolidone [PVP K30] and polylactic acid [PLA]) in different ratios were prepared by the o/o solvent evaporation method using Span 80 as a surfactant. In addition, the impact of encapsulation parameters (i.e., PVP K30 and PLA concentrations) on the encapsulation ratio and release percentage was investigated by the mixed factorial design method. The release kinetics of the microspheres was simulated by combining two methods, the Dragonfly algorithm and a support vector machine (DA‐SVM). The experimental data were in good agreement with the predicted data, with a coefficient of determination close to unity and a mean square error close to zero. Fourier‐transfer infrared spectrometry (FTIR) analysis revealed the presence of condensation in all formulations without reporting distortion in the spectra. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the successful synthesis of microspheres, whose sizes were between 12 and 26 μm. Formulations with a PLA‐drug ratio of 6:1 (N15, N17, and N18) showed the highest encapsulation efficiency (68%, 71%, and 70%, respectively), while formulations that do contain PVP K30, such as N5, N4, and N3, showed a higher release (83%, 84%, and 89%, respectively), indicating that the agent (PVP K30) enhanced the bioavailability and release of candesartan. Overall, N3 showed a higher drug release rate at 12 h and important encapsulation efficiency, making it the optimal formulation obtained in this study.
The Effect of Surface Terminations on the Initial Stages of TiO2 Deposition on Functionalized Silicon
Authors: Parke Tyler , Silva‐Quinones Dhamelyz , Wang George T. , Teplyakov Andrew V.
Published: December 2022

As atomic layer deposition (ALD) emerges as a method to fabricate architectures with atomic precision, emphasis is placed on understanding surface reactions and nucleation mechanisms. ALD of titanium dioxide with TiCl4 and water has been used to investigate deposition processes in general, but the effect of surface termination on the initial TiO2 nucleation lacks needed mechanistic insights. This work examines the adsorption of TiCl4 on Cl−, H−, and HO− terminated Si(100) and Si(111) surfaces to elucidate the general role of different surface structures and defect types in manipulating surface reactivity of growth and non‐growth substrates. The surface sites and their role in the initial stages of deposition are examined by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Density functional theory (DFT) computations of the local functionalized silicon surfaces suggest oxygen‐containing defects are primary drivers of selectivity loss on these surfaces.
Effect of natural antioxidants on bond strength recovery of resin‐modified glass ionomers to the NaOCl‐affected pulp chamber dentin
Authors: Shafiei Fereshteh , Dehghani Zahra , Tavangar Maryam S.
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study evaluated the effect of two natural antioxidants on the compromised bond strength of a resin‐modified glass ionomer (RMGI) to the sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl)‐affected pulp chamber dentin.

Methods

Forty‐two sound third molars were split into halves. The exposed pulp chamber dentin was ground to provide the flat dentin surfaces and divided into seven groups (n = 12), according to the solutions used for immersion: (1) Control, distilled water; (2) NaOCl, 5.25% NaOCl for 20 min; (3) NaOCl/Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA); 5.25% NaOCl for 20 min + 17% EDTA for 1 min; (4) NaOCl/TA, 5.25% NaOCl + 10% tanic acid (TA) for 5 min; (5) NaOCl/EDTA/TA, 5.25% NaOCl + 17% EDTA + 10% TA for 5 min; (6) NaOCl/PA, 5.25% NaOCl+ 10% proanthocyanidin for 5 min; and (7) NaOCl/EDTA/PA, 5.25% NaOCl+ 17% EDTA + 10% PA for 5 min. The RMGI was bonded on the treated dentin using a Tygon tube. After 24 h of storage, microshear bond strength (µSBS) was tested. Data in MPa were submitted to one‐way analysis of variance and Tamhane test.

Results

NaOCl significantly decreased the µSBS; NaOCl/EDTA and NaOCl/TA significantly increased the µSBS, higher than the control group (p < .05); and in the NaOCl/EDTA/TA group, the increased bond strength was at the level of the control group (p > .05). NaOCl/PA and NaOCl/EDTA/PA and NaOCl groups had comparable µSBS.

Conclusion

TA could be suggested to provide effective bonding of RMGI and immediate sealing of the pulp chamber dentin after NaOCl irrigation.
Life history and population ecology ofRadix swinhoei(Lymnaeidae) in nearshore regions of a hypereutrophic plateau lake
Authors: Zhang Junqian , Song Zhuoyan , Li Zhengfei , Yang Jiali , Xie Zhicai
Published: December 2022

Accurate assessment of life history and population ecology of widespread species in ultra‐eutrophic freshwater lakes is a prerequisite for understanding the mechanisms by which widespread species respond to eutrophication. Freshwater pulmonate (Radix swinhoei) is widespread and abundant in many eutrophic water bodies in Asia. Despite its key roles in eutrophic lake systems, the information on life history and population ecology ofR. swinhoeiis lacking, especially in ultra‐eutrophic freshwater plateau lakes. Here, we conducted a 1‐year survey ofR. swinhoeiwith monthly collections to measure the life history traits (life span and growth), annual secondary production, and population size structure ofR. swinhoeiin nearshore regions with a high seasonally variation of nutrients in Lake Dianchi, a typic hypereutrophic plateau lake in Southwest China. Our results showed thatR. swinhoeihad the highest biomass in autumn and had the lowest in winter. Its maximum potential life span was 2.5 years, with three recruitment periods (November, March, and July) within a year. Its annual secondary production and P/B ratio were 137.19 g WW/m2and 16.05, respectively. Redundancy analysis showed that eutrophication‐related environmental factors had weak correlations with population size structure ofR. swinhoei. Our results suggested thatR. swinhoeiis a typical r‐strategist with high secondary production and thrive in eutrophic environment. Our study can help better understand the mechanisms for widespread species to survive eutrophication and could also be relevant for biodiversity conservation and management of eutrophic ecosystems.
Boric Acid‐Assisted Pyrolysis for High‐Loading Single‐Atom Catalysts to Boost Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Xu Chenxi , Wu Jiexing , Chen Liang , Gong Yi , Mao Boyang , Zhang Jincan , Deng Jinhai , Mao Mingxuan , Shi Yan , Hou Zhaohui , Cao Mengxue , Li Huanxin , Zhou Haihui , Huang Zhongyuan , Kuang Yafei
Published: December 2022

The emerging of single‐atom catalysts (SACs) offers a great opportunity for the development of advanced energy storage and conversion devices due to their excellent activity and durability, but the actual mass production of high‐loading SACs is still challenging. Herein, a facile and green boron acid (H3BO3)‐assisted pyrolysis strategy is put forward to synthesize SACs by only using chitosan, cobalt salt and H3BO3 as precursor, and the effect of H3BO3 is deeply investigated. The results show that molten boron oxide derived from H3BO3 as ideal high‐temperature carbonization media and blocking media play important role in the synthesis process. As a result, the acquired Co/N/B tri‐doped porous carbon framework (Co–N–B–C) not only presents hierarchical porous structure, large specific surface area and abundant carbon edges but also possesses high‐loading single Co atom (4.2 wt.%), thus giving rise to outstanding oxygen catalytic performance. When employed as a catalyst for air cathode in Zn‐air batteries, the resultant Co–N–B–C catalyst shows remarkable power density and long‐term stability. Clearly, our work gains deep insight into the role of H3BO3 and provides a new avenue to synthesis of high‐performance SACs.
Efficacy of guideline‐directed medical treatment in heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Zhang Xinxin , Sun Yuxi , Zhang Yunlong , Wang Ning , Sha Qiuyan , Yu Songqi , Lv Xin , Ding Zijie , Zhang Yanli , Tse Gary , Liu Ying
Published: December 2022

Aims

Heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF) has received increasing attention following the publication of the latest ESC guidelines in 2021. However, it remains unclear whether patients with HFmrEF could benefit from guideline‐directed medical treatment (GDMT), referring the combination of ACEI/ARB/ARNI, β‐blockers, and MRAs, which are recommended for those with reduced ejection fraction. This study explored the efficacy of GDMT in HFmrEF patients.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of HFmrEF patients admitted to The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University between 1 September 2015 and 30 November 2019. Propensity score matching (1:2) between patients receiving triple‐drug therapy (TT) and non‐triple therapy (NTT) based on age and sex was performed. The primary outcome was all cause death, cardiac death, rehospitalization from any cause, and rehospitalization due to worsening heart failure.

Results

Of the 906 patients enrolled in the matched cohort (TT group, n = 302; NTT group, N = 604), 653 (72.08%) were male, and mean age was 61.1 ± 11.92. Survival analysis suggested that TT group experienced a significantly lower incidence of prespecified primary endpoints than NTT group. Multivariable Cox regression showed that TT group had a lower risk of all‐cause mortality (HR 0.656, 95% CI 0.447–0.961, P = 0.030), cardiac death (HR 0.599, 95% CI 0.380–0.946, P = 0.028), any‐cause rehospitalization (HR 0.687, 95% CI 0.541–0.872, P = 0.002), and heart failure rehospitalization (HR 0.732, 95% CI 0.565–0.948, P = 0.018).

Conclusions

In patients with HFmrEF, combined use of neurohormonal antagonists produces remarkable effects in reducing the occurrence of the primary outcome of rehospitalization and death. Thus, the treatment of HFmrEF should be categorized as HFrEF due to the similar benefit of neurohormonal blocking therapy in HFrEF and HFmrEF.
Prognostic value of Growth differentiation factors 15 in Acute heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Yin Dan , Yan Xiaofang , Bai Xueke , Tian Aoxi , Gao Yan , Li Jing
Published: December 2022

Aims

There is an increasing proportion of hospitalized heart failure (HF) patients classified as HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) around the world. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF‐15) is a promising biomarker in HFpEF prognostication; however, the majority of the existing data has been derived from the research on undifferentiated HF, whereas the studies focusing on HFpEF are still limited. This study aimed to determine the prognostic power of GDF‐15 in the hospitalized patients with HFpEF in a Chinese cohort.

Methods and results

We analysed the levels of serum GDF‐15 in 380 patients hospitalized for acute onset of HFpEF measured by heart ultrasound at admission in a prospective cohort. The associations of GDF‐15 with 1 year risk of all‐cause death and 1 year HF readmission were assessed by the Cox proportional hazards model. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curves was used to compare predictive accuracy. GDF‐15 was strongly correlated with 1 year HF readmission and 1 year all‐cause death, with event rates of 24.8%, 40.0%, and 50.0% for 1 year HF readmission (P < 0.001), respectively, and with 11.2%, 13.6%, and 24.6% for 1 year all‐cause death (P = 0.004) in the corresponding tertile, respectively. In the multivariate linear regression model, GDF‐15 had a significantly negative correlation with haemoglobin (P = 0.01) and a positive correlation with creatinine (P = 0.01), alanine transaminase (P = 0.001), and therapy of aldosterone antagonist (P = 0.018). The univariate Cox regression model of GDF‐15 showed that c‐statistic was 0.632 for 1 year HF readmission and 0.644 for 1 year all‐cause death, which were superior to the N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) model with c‐statistics of 0.595 and 0.610, respectively. In the multivariable Cox regression model, GDF‐15 tertiles independently predicted 1 year HF readmission (hazard ratio 2.25, 95% confidence interval: 1.43–3.54, P < 0.001) after adjusting for baseline Acute Study of Clinical Effectiveness of Nesiritide in Decompensated Heart Failure (ASCEND‐HF) risk score, history of HF, NT‐proBNP, and high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T. Compared with the model including all the adjusted variables, the model with the addition of GDF‐15 improved predictive power, with c‐statistic increasing from 0.643 to 0.657 for 1 year HF readmission and from 0.638 to 0.660 for 1 year all‐cause death.

Conclusions

In hospitalized patients with HFpEF, GDF‐15 measured within 48 h of admission is a strong independent biomarker for 1 year HF readmission and even better than NT‐proBNP. GDF‐15 combined with the traditional indicators provided incremental prognostic value in this population.
Further Studies of CoIII(TIM) Mono‐Alkynyl and Bis‐Alkynyl Complexes
Authors: Rodriguez Segura Leobardo , Cox Kenneth E. , Samayoa‐Oviedo Hugo Y. , Ren Tong
Published: December 2022

A new series of mono‐ and bis‐alkynyl CoIII(TIM) complexes (TIM=2,3,9,10‐tetramethyl‐1,4,8,11‐tetraazacyclotetradeca‐1,3,8,10‐tetraene) is reported herein. The trans‐[Co(TIM)(C2R)Cl]+ complexes were prepared from the reaction between trans‐[Co(TIM)Cl2]PF6 and HC2R (R=tri(isopropyl)silyl or TIPS (1), ‐C6H4‐4‐tBu (2), ‐C6H4‐4‐NO2 (3 a), and N‐mesityl‐1,8‐naphthalimide or NAPMes (4 a)) in the presence of Et3N. The intermediate complexes of the type trans‐[Co(TIM)(C2R)(NCMe)](PF6)(OTf), 3 b and 4 b, were obtained by treating 3 a and 4 a, respectively, with AgOTf in CH3CN. Furthermore, bis‐alkynyl trans‐[Co(TIM)(C2R)2]PF6 complexes, 3 c and 4 c, were generated following a second dehydrohalogenation reaction between 3 b and 4 b, respectively, and the appropriate HC2R in the presence of Et3N. These new complexes have been characterized using X‐ray diffraction (2, 3 a, 4 a, and 4 c), IR, 1H NMR, UV/Vis spectroscopy, fluorescent spectroscopy (4 c), and cyclic voltammetry.
Synthesis of Cyclic 1,2‐Bisphosphines by Tandem Michael Addition of 2,3‐Bis(diarylphosphinyl)‐1,3‐butadiene
Authors: Chen Zhenqiang , Sun Yingying , Wang Shoufeng , Zhang Qing‐Wei
Published: December 2022

A base‐promoted tandem Michael addition of malonates to 2,3‐ bis(diarylphosphinyl)‐1,3‐butadienes was developed for the synthesis of cyclopentyl 1,2‐bisphosphine compounds. This method enables rapid construction of various 1,2‐bis(diarylphosphinyl)cyclopentanes, and features readily accessible reactants, mild conditions and good functional group tolerance. The product could be easily transformed to the corresponding transition metal complexes, which may find broad applications in asymmetric catalysis.
Association between night pain and quality of life in women: A general population sleep study
Authors: Lucena Leandro , Lavigne Gilles , Fabbro Cibele Dal , Andersen Monica Levy , Tufik Sergio , Hachul Helena
Published: December 2022

Background

Women with pain present decreased sleep duration and quality of life, but little is known about the consequences of nighttime pain on overall health. Our goal was to compare levels of anxiety, depression and fatigue in women with pain during the night with those without pain. We hypothesized that pain perception is associated with the worsening of fatigue and mood.

Methods

In total, 244 women aged 20–80 years who took part in the Epidemiologic Sleep Study (EPISONO) met the inclusion criteria, 85 in the self‐reported pain group and 171 in the control group. Participants were assigned to the pain group if they both responded (i) they generally had pain, according to Pre‐Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) and (ii) their pain generally interfered with their sleep 3 or more times a week, according to Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Those who answered negatively to both questions were allocated to the control group. All participants underwent a full night laboratory polysomnography, and completed questionnaires related to fatigue, depression, anxiety and quality of life.

Results

Pain group participants had a significantly lower perception of quality of life, and significantly higher levels of fatigue (5.4 times), anxiety and depression. Pain perception was also correlated to levels of anxiety and depression in the psychological (rs = −0.463, −0.607, respectively) and social (rs = −0.423, −0.438, respectively) quality of life domains.

Conclusions

Nighttime pain in women was associated with decreased quality of life, worsening mood and fatigue. Our data shows the importance of investigating pain and its deleterious effects on women's health.

Significance

Our study highlights that women experiencing nighttime pain also reported worse mood outcomes and decreased quality of life, regardless of the level and type of pain. Our data, based on association analysis and not investigating causality, suggest it is important to consider nighttime pain in clinical care to improve quality of life and general health.
Differential characterization of volatile components and aroma sensory properties of different types of Hehong tea (Congou black tea)
Authors: Yue Cuinan , Li Wenjin , Li Chen , Wang Zhihui , Peng Hua , Yang Puxiang
Published: December 2022

To explore the flavour characteristics and their different molecular mechanisms of different types of Hehong tea (Gongya, GY; Congou, CG and Laocong, LC) from the perspective of dry tea, we investigated their volatile compounds and sensory aroma sub‐attribute characteristics by headspace–solid phase microextraction–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS‐SPME‐GC–MS), quantitative description analysis (QDA), and chemometrics. A total of 42 volatile compounds were identified in Hehong tea, of which alcohol content was the highest, the number of esters was the largest and pyrrole showed the largest differences. The volatile components of GY and LC differed, whereas those of CG and LC were more similar. There were 34 volatile components with a significant difference in the three types of Hehong tea. We established the aroma quantitative system of Hehong tea by using QDA. We found that sweety was probably the symbolic aroma sub‐attribute of Hehong tea, and woody was the characteristic sub‐attribute of LC, and there was a certain correlation among the aroma sub‐attributes. A total of 21 volatile components importantly contributed to the aroma sub‐attributes of Hehong tea. Furthermore, we screened out 18 marker volatile compounds that may be used as important indicators for distinguishing the three types of Hehong tea. Our findings add to our understanding of the flavour characteristics and aromas of the three types of Hehong tea and provide new strategies and thoughts for the evaluation of tea flavour using dry tea.
Identification of a novel recurrent EEF2 gene amplification in familial prostate tumors
Authors: Raspin Kelsie , Marthick James R. , Donovan Shaun , Blizzard Leigh , Malley Roslyn C. , Jung Chol‐hee , Banks Annette , Redwig Frank , Skala Marketa , Dickinson Joanne L. , FitzGerald Liesel M.
Published: December 2022

Recurrent tumor copy number variations (CNVs) in prostate cancer (PrCa) have predominantly been discovered in sporadic tumor cohorts. Here, we examined familial prostate tumors for novel CNVs as prior studies suggest these harbor distinct CNVs. Array comparative genomic hybridization of 12 tumors from an Australian PrCa family, PcTas9, highlighted multiple recurrent CNVs, including amplification of EEF2 (19p13.3) in 100% of tumors. The EEF2 CNV was examined in a further 26 familial and seven sporadic tumors from the Australian cohort and in 494 tumors unselected for family history from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). EEF2 overexpression was observed in seven PcTas9 tumors, in addition to seven other predominantly familial tumors (ntotal = 34%). EEF2 amplification was only observed in 1.4% of TCGA tumors, however 7.5% harbored an EEF2 deletion. Analysis of genes co‐expressed with EEF2 revealed significant upregulation of two genes, ZNF74 and ADSL, and downregulation of PLSCR1 in both EEF2 amplified familial tumors and EEF2 deleted TCGA tumors. Furthermore, in TCGA tumors, EEF2 amplification and deletion were significantly associated with a higher Gleason score. In summary, we identified a novel PrCa CNV that was predominantly amplified in familial tumors and deleted in unselected tumors. Our results provide further evidence that familial tumors harbor distinct CNVs, potentially due to an inherited predisposition, but also suggest that regardless of how EEF2 is dysregulated, a similar set of genes involved in key cancer pathways are impacted. Given the current lack of gene‐based biomarkers and clinical targets in PrCa, further investigation of EEF2 is warranted.
Laryngectomy: Social media analysis of patient perception
Authors: Moffatt David C. , Lahaye Joshua J. , Corona Kassandra K. , Rossi Nicholas A. , Joshi Rohan , Resto Vicente , McKinnon Brian J. , Coblens Orly M.
Published: December 2022

Background

Social media continues to grow as a relevant information source for the lay public and medical professionals.

Methods

A search of posts on Facebook and Instagram was conducted using the hashtag #laryngectomy. Posts were categorized based upon perspective, media type, timeframe, topic, tone, and popularity.

Results

Final analysis included 929 Instagram posts and 355 Facebook posts. Most Facebook posts were made by companies (38%) and physicians (17%) with information (30%) and advertisements (22%) being common topics. Patients (40%) were the largest group of Instagram authors with lifestyle (39%) being the most common topic. Greater than 90% of posts were either neutral or positive in tone across both platforms.

Conclusions

Patient perspective was most commonly represented on Instagram, whereas Facebook more commonly included posts by physicians and companies. The majority of posts carried a neutral or positive tone, which is consistent with positive quality of life patients have shown postoperatively.