bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Profile of Cutaneous Adverse Drug Reactions in HIV Patients: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Vellaisamy Seethalakshmi Ganga , Masilamani Minushwetha , Thangamuthu Divyasri
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Cutaneous Adverse Drug Reaction (cADR) is one of the most common clinical presentation in patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). These patients are more prone to get cADR because of various factors like altered drug metabolism, immune dysregulation, genetic predisposition, polypharmacy and oxidative stress. So, a methodical study of cADR, including the risk factors, patterns of drug eruption and prognostic factors is of crucial clinical significance. Aim: To determine the prevalence of cutaneous drug reactions in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) patients and also study the various patterns of cADRs. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the outpatient department of Infectious diseases and Medical Centre, Voluntary health services, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, from April 2020 to December 2020. A total of 150 HIV patients above 18 years who were taking Anti-retroviral Therapy (ART) were included in this study. After screening for cADR, it was classified as Morbilliform eruption, Erythema multiforme, Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) and Fixed Drug Eruption (FDE) etc., The severity of the reaction was graded based on Modified Hartwig and Siegel severity assessment scale. Pearson Chi-square test and Bivariate Pearson Correlation was performed to statistically analyse the data. Results: Amongst total of 150 HIV patients (87 males and 63 females), mean age of the study population was 41.07 years. There was a male predominance with male:female ratio of 1.3:1. About 44% (n=6) of the study population had opportunistic infection. The prevalence of drug eruption in this study was found to be 6% (n=9). Out of which, 55.6% (n=5) of the population had morbilliform eruption and 22.7% had urticarial (n=2) and pruritus (n=2) respectively. About 56% (n=5) of the drug reaction was caused by Tenofovir/Lamivudine/Efavirenz regimen and the remaining 44% (n=4) of the drug eruption was caused by Abacavir/Lamivudine/Dolutegravir regimen. Conclusion: In this study, the prevalence of drug eruption was 6% and majority of the population had morbilliform eruption.
Peritumoural and Intratumoural Distribution of Langerhan Cell in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma and its Association with Known Prognostic Factors
Authors: Usman Sandhra Papparath , Ramakrishnan Deepti , Divya S
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) accounts for about 2/3rd of the Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas (HNSCC). It is the sixth most common cancer worldwide and the third most common cancer in developing countries including India. More than half the HNSCC patients have advanced disease at the time of diagnosis and overall long-term survival is low (50%), despite aggressive therapeutic regimens. This has demanded the need for prognostic indicators that can be used to improve the ability to select a more individualised approach for treatment relative to the risks of recurrence, metastases and death. Aim: To study the intratumoural and peritumoural distribution and density of Langerhans Cells (LC) in OSCC using Immunohistochemistry (IHC) markers Cluster of Differentiation1a (CD1a) and Langerin and to study its association with known prognostic factors. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based crosssectional study conducted at the Department of Pathology, Amala institute of Medical Sciences, Kerala, India during a period of 18 months, from January 2019 to June 2020. In total, 28 specimens of wide local excision with cervical lymph node dissection done for OSCC were enrolled in the study. Small biopsy samples and cases who had undergone neoadjuvant treatment as well as cases of recurrent OSCC were excluded. Clinical details were obtained from the patients’ case files. The immunohistochemical staining for LCs using CD1a and Langerin was done. The distribution of LCs was compared to the tumour grade and lymph node status along with lymphovascular and perineural invasion. Statistical analysis was performed using sample t-test after identifying normality of distribution. The p-value of <0.05 was taken as significant. Results: Fourteen cases of well differentiated and 14 cases of moderate to poorly differentiated OSCC were selected for the study. The LC distribution in these cases were compared to prognostic factors like histological grade, Lymphovascular Invasion (LVI), perineural invasion, tumour size, depth of invasion, T stage and lymph node status. A significant positive association was observed between the tumour differentiation and peritumoural CD1a positive cell density (p-value: 0.001). Further, a negative association was also established between the lymph node staging and peritumoural CD1a positive cell density (p-value: 0.004). There was no association between the LC density and presence of lymphovascular or perineural invasion in OSCC. Conclusion: A depleted peritumoural LC density in OSCC reflects poor tumour immunity, associated with higher grade and higher stage of lymph node metastasis. LC density may hence be of prognostic value in OSCC.
Effects of Isoflurane versus Propofol for Postoperative Neurocognitive Recovery in Patients Undergoing Surgery under General Anaesthesia: A Randomised Clinical Study
Authors: Monisha B , Madhusudhana Ravi , Sujatha MP
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Propofol and isoflurane are commonly used in general anaesthesia. Both the drugs are neither neuroprotective nor neurotoxic. In clinical settings, inhaled anaesthetics like isoflurane are frequently used. But, it has been claimed that isoflurane anaesthesia would be a factor inducing cognitive impairment. Propofol is metabolised quickly, primarily in the liver, and its by products are inert. After the initial dose, the half-life of propofol is 2 to 8 minutes, and even with prolonged infusions, propofol promotes quick recovery. Aim: To evaluate the effects of propofol and isoflurane on postoperative recovery patterns in patients receiving general anaesthesia and to determine how they affect cognitive function and memory. Materials and Methods: A double-blinded randomised clinical study was conducted at the Department of Anaesthesia, RL Jalappa Hospital and Research Centre, Tamaka, Kolar, Karnataka, India, during the period from January 2022 to March 2022. In the present study, 60 patients of between age 50-90 years were included. Patients were split into two groups: group A received an intravenous infusion of propofol, and group B received isoflurane. Patients in both groups had their cognitive ability and memory tested before surgery. In the present study, baseline Mean Atrial Pressure (MAP), Heart Rate (HR), Pulse Oximetry (SpO2 ) and Ramsay Sedation score were comparable in both groups. The novel variables, such as surgery types, duration, and medications were evaluated in both groups. Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) were assessed one hour before and four hours after surgery. Comparison of a continuous variable across the groups was performed using the Student’s t-test or MannWhitney U test, depending on the normality of the distribution. A comparison of categorical variables across the two study groups was made using the Chi-square test. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Age group of 50-60 years were more in both group A (66.7%), and group B (70%). In Group A, most participants were females (56.7%), and in group B, majority were males (60%). In group A, the postoperative assessment showed a mean MoCA score of 25.6±1.52; in group B postoperative assessment showed a mean MoCA score of 24.17±1.46 with a p-value of 0.001, which was statistically significant. The postoperative assessment showed a mean MMSE score of 26.3±1.58 in group A and in group B, the postoperative assessment showed a mean MMSE score of 24.9±1.4 with a p-value of 0.001, which was statistically significant. Conclusion: The current results imply that postoperative delirium is more frequently present after isoflurane anaesthesia than after propofol anaesthesia.
The socioeconomic profile of alcohol use in Europe: findings from 33 European countries
Authors: Kilian Carolin , Manthey Jakob , Moskalewicz Jacek , Braddick Fleur , Matrai Silvia , López-Pelayo Hugo , Rehm Jürgen
Published: June 2023

Background: Alcohol’s detrimental health effects do not affect everyone equally but accumulate in people with low socioeconomic status (SES). Using data from the 2021 Standard European Alcohol Survey, we explore gender- and SES-specific consumption patterns, and COVID-19 related changes in consumption across Europe.

Methods: Cross-sectional population-based survey data from 54,354 adults from 33 European countries plus Spain-Catalonia were analysed. Five alcohol indicators were of interest: prevalence of past-year alcohol use; and, among past-year alcohol users, prevalence of monthly/more frequent risky-single-occasion-drinking (monthly+ RSOD); prevalence of high-risk alcohol use (40+/60+ grams pure alcohol daily for women/men); mean daily grams of pure alcohol consumed; and self-reported consumption changes during COVID-19. Alcohol indicators were age-standardised and decomposed by gender and SES (education attainment), and analysed using regression models with location-specific random intercepts.

Results: Across jurisdictions, past-year alcohol use, monthly+ RSOD, and high-risk drinking were all commonly reported, with distinct gender-specific socioeconomic profiles. While high-SES men and women were generally more likely to report past-year alcohol use, monthly+ RSOD and high-risk drinking were more prevalent among currently drinking low/mid-SES compared to high-SES men. No such SES differences in risky drinking were observed among women, however, female alcohol users with high SES reported higher mean daily drinking levels. High-SES women but not men were more likely to both increase and decrease their drinking during COVID-19 compared to their low/mid-SES counterparts.

Conclusion: High consumption levels and distinct socioeconomic profiles among men and women highlight the need for effective alcohol policies to reduce health inequalities in Europe.
Cultivation and Marketing of Important Flower Crops in Dindigul District of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Preethi S. , Hemalatha P. , Selvanayaki S. , Ravi R. , Banoo Raziya
Published: June 2023

Tamil Nadu is the leading producer of loose flowers in India. Dindigul is one of the major flower cultivation districts in Tamil Nadu. A flower crop survey was carried out in the Nilakottai Flower Market, Dindigul. There, much information was gathered through questionnaire method from thirty farmers about the cultivation of flower crops in that area, including climatic conditions, yield, value-added products, and various pests and diseases to flower crops. Then, other details were collected from ten commission agents and ten export agents in Nilakottai flower market regarding the marketing and exporting of flower crops grown and value-added products in that area to various districts of Tamil Nadu, states of India and various countries. Among various flower crops, jasmine is an attractive, important commercial crop and very popular in the state. It is significant in all religious, social, and cultural ceremonies, as well as all other functions performed by all people. Another notable jasmine cultivar grown in Madurai, Dindigul, Nilakottai, and surrounding areas has a Geographical Indication (GI) label. There are 10 jasmine perfume producing industries in Dindigul district. Various aromatic plants and flowers are used in the perfumery industry for scent production. In this article, various flower crops in Dindigul district and their cultivation and marketing have been presented.
Eddy Covariance Measurements of Turbulent Heat Fluxes over a Grass-covered Surface in a Tropical Location
Authors: Obisesan Omodara E. , Babatunde Oladimeji A. , Omokungbe Opeyemi R. , Olufemi Ayodele P.
Published: June 2023

In this study, an Eddy Covariance (EC) system was deployed to measure the turbulent heat fluxes (sensible and latent heat fluxes) at a farmland located at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. The period of measurement was between 2016 and 2019. The surface of the measurement area was covered by grass (Axonopus fissifolius) and changes from leafy-green during the wet season to dry twigs during the dry season. The sensible heat flux, Hs obtained ranged between -0.8 and 181.9 Wm-2 while the latent heat flux, Hl varied between 0.9 and 218.0 Wm-2. The maximum daytime value of Hs peaked in January while the maximum daytime value of Hl peaked in October. The sensible heat flux was 59 % higher than the latent heat flux during the Harmattan months (January, February and December), while the latent heat flux was 63 % higher than the sensible heat flux during the wet months (April - November). The study concluded that 91 % of the energy available at the surface during the period of study, was used for evapotranspiration while only 9 % was used for sensible heating as shown by the distribution of the Bowen ratio.
Salpingectomy in Ovarian Cancer Prevention
Authors: Stone Rebecca , Sakran Joseph V. , Long Roche Kara
Published: June 2023

This Viewpoint explains the use of opportunistic salpingectomy, removal of the fallopian tubes for the primary prevention of ovarian cancer in a woman already undergoing pelvic surgery for another indication.
Global, Race-Neutral Reference Equations and Pulmonary Function Test Interpretation
Authors: Moffett Alexander T. , Bowerman Cole , Stanojevic Sanja , Eneanya Nwamaka D. , Halpern Scott D. , Weissman Gary E.
Published: June 2023

Importance

Race and ethnicity are routinely used to inform pulmonary function test (PFT) interpretation. However, there is no biological justification for such use, and it may reinforce health disparities.

Objective

To compare the PFT interpretations produced with race-neutral and race-specific equations.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this cross-sectional study, race-neutral reference equations recently developed by the Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI) were used to interpret PFTs performed at an academic medical center between January 2010 and December 2020. The interpretations produced with these race-neutral reference equations were compared with those produced using the race and ethnicity–specific reference equations produced by GLI in 2012. The analysis was conducted from April to October 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes were differences in the percentage of obstructive, restrictive, mixed, and nonspecific lung function impairments identified using the 2 sets of reference equations. Secondary outcomes were differences in severity of these impairments.

Results

PFTs were interpreted from 2722 Black (686 men [25.4%]; mean [SD] age, 51.8 [13.9] years) and 5709 White (2654 men [46.5%]; mean [SD] age, 56.4 [14.3] years) individuals. Among Black individuals, replacing the race-specific reference equations with the race-neutral reference equations was associated with an increase in the prevalence of restriction from 26.8% (95% CI, 25.2%-28.5%) to 37.5% (95% CI, 35.7%-39.3%) and of a nonspecific pattern of impairment from 3.2% (95% CI, 2.5%- 3.8%) to 6.5% (95% CI, 5.6%-7.4%) and no significant change in the prevalence of obstruction (19.9% [95% CI, 18.4%-21.4%] vs 19.5% [95% CI, 18.0%-21.0%]). Among White individuals, replacing the race-specific reference equations with the race-neutral reference equations was associated with a decrease in the prevalence of restriction from 22.6% (95% CI, 21.5%-23.6%) to 18.0% (95% CI, 17.0%-19.0%), a decrease in the prevalence of a nonspecific pattern of impairment from 8.7% (95% CI, 7.9%-9.4%) to 4.0% (95% CI, 3.5%-4.5%), and no significant change in the percentage with obstruction from 23.9% (95% CI, 22.8%-25.1%) to 25.1% (95% CI, 23.9%- 26.2%). The race-neutral reference equations were associated with an increase in severity in 22.8% (95% CI, 21.2%-24.4%) of Black individuals and a decrease in severity in 19.3% (95% CI, 18.2%-20.3%) of White individuals vs the race-specific reference equations.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study, the use of race-neutral reference equations to interpret PFTs resulted in a significant increase in the number of Black individuals with respiratory impairments along with a significant increase in the severity of the identified impairments. More work is needed to quantify the effect these reference equations would have on diagnosis, referral, and treatment patterns.
Evaluation of Anterolateral Thigh Fascia Lata Rescue Flap for Mandibular Osteoradionecrosis
Authors: Arianpour Khashayar , Meleca Joseph B. , Liu Sara W. , Prendes Brandon L. , Ciolek Peter J. , Genther Dane J. , Mangie Craig , Khanna Sagar , Fritz Michael A.
Published: June 2023

Importance

Mandibular osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a progressive disease that can be difficult to treat. Conservative measures often fail, while conventional definitive management requires a morbid segmental resection with osteocutaneous reconstruction. Evidence of the anterolateral thigh fascia lata (ALTFL) rescue flap technique’s safety, effectiveness, and long-term outcomes is needed.

Objective

To determine the long-term outcomes of the ALTFL rescue flap procedure for treating patients with mandibular ORN.

Design, Settings, and Participants

This was a retrospective medical record review performed at a single tertiary-level academic health care institution with patients who were appropriate candidates for the ALTFL procedure to treat mandibular ORN from March 3, 2011, to December 31, 2022. Data analyses were performed from January 1 to March 26, 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Patient characteristics, preoperative radiographic Notani staging, intraoperative defect size, length of stay, complication rates, and clinical and radiographic findings of progression-free intervals.

Results

The study population of 43 patients (mean [SD] age, 66.1 [47-80] years; 24 [55.8%] male individuals) included 52 cases of mandibular ORN. The preoperative Notani staging of the study population was known for 46 of the 52 total cases: 11 cases (23.9%) were stage I; 21 (45.7%), stage II; and 14 (30.4%), stage III. The mean defect area was 20.9 cm2. Successful arrest of ORN disease progression was noted in the clinical and radiographic findings of 50 of the 52 (96.2%) cases, with only 2 (3.8%) cases subsequently requiring fibular free flap reconstruction. The major complication rate was 1.9% (1 case). Clinical and radiographic progression-free intervals were assessed, and no statistically significant differences were noted between Notani staging groups (log-rankP = .43 andP = .43, respectively); ie, patients with stage III disease had no significant difference in risk of clinical (HR, 0.866; 95% CI, 0.054-13.853) or radiographic (HR, 0.959; 95% CI, 0.059-15.474) progression vs those with stage I disease. Weibull profiling revealed 96.9%, 94.6%, and 93.1% successful mandibular ORN arrest at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. The major complication rate was 1.9%. Mean (SD) length of stay was 2.7 (0.0-7.0) days. Mean (SD) radiographic follow-up was 29.3 (30.7) months.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this large retrospective patient case series support the continued success of the ALTFL rescue flap technique, a safe and highly effective long-term treatment for mandibular ORN in carefully selected patients.
Deciphering land‐use influences on boreal lakes to guide landscape planning
Authors: Heino Jani , Toivanen Maija , Alahuhta Janne
Published: June 2023

Changes in natural land cover have been pronounced in the last 12,000 years, and land use has intensified in the last century owing to anthropogenic pressures on landscapes. This trend has led to concomitant changes in the abiotic templates and biotic communities of different ecosystems embedded in a landscape.

Deciphering the role of land use is key to understand ecological change in boreal landscapes. These landscapes are characterized by large numbers of lakes that have been affected by various anthropogenic factors, of which land use has considerable direct and indirect effects on lakes.

In this review, we focus on land use impacts on boreal lakes in a historical perspective. We will consider lake features related to abiotic conditions, biological communities and ecosystem services, and provide potential solutions for planning lake management and conservation in a landscape setting. More specifically, we propose a novel way to characterize lake abiotic, biotic and ecosystem service features by applying the alpha, beta and gamma concept used widely in ecological research.

Finally, we highlight situations where this approach could be a valuable addition to existing means to identify lakes that should be reserved for ecosystem services (‘lake‐sharing’) and those that are vital for protecting aquatic biodiversity (‘lake‐sparing’).
Neurofilament light chain levels in cerebrospinal fluid as a sensitive biomarker for cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy
Authors: Kakumoto Toshiyuki , Matsukawa Takashi , Ishiura Hiroyuki , Mori Harushi , Tsuji Shoji , Toda Tatsushi
Published: June 2023

Objective

Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) has a poor prognosis when it progresses to the cerebral form (CALD). The aim of this study is to investigate whether cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) neurofilament light chain (cNfL) is a sensitive biomarker for detecting CALD and assessing response to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of 41 male ALD patients. The cNfL levels in patients with the cerebral form of ALD (CALD) or the cerebello‐brainstem form of ALD were compared with those in patients with adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN). The correlation between cNfL levels and MRI‐based Loes severity scores was investigated. A longitudinal analysis was performed on patients who underwent multiple CSF examinations.

Results

The cNfL levels in 22 patients with CALD were significantly higher than those in 14 patients with AMN (median, 5545 vs. 1490 pg/mL; p < 0.001). The cutoff cNfL level of 1930 pg/mL showed good sensitivity (95.5%) and specificity (85.7%) for distinguishing CALD from AMN. The cNfL levels were positively correlated with Loes scores (p < 0.001). The cNfL levels in three AMN patients who later converted to CALD increased above the cutoff level during the conversion period, while the cNfL levels in four patients who remained in AMN were consistently below the cutoff. In 10 ALD patients who underwent HSCT, their cNfL levels decreased 3–24 months after HSCT. Two patients whose cNfL increased after HSCT showed deterioration in cognitive functions.

Interpretation

The cNfL level is useful for evaluating the disease activities of ALD and the response to HSCT.
Synergistic Effect of Crosslinked Organic–Inorganic Composite Protective Layer for High Performance Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Park Kiho , Kim Sujin , Baek Minsung , Chang Barsa , Lee Taeyong , Choi Jang Wook
Published: June 2023

Maintaining a stable interface of lithium metal anodes (LMAs) by implementing a protective layer is a promising approach in extending the cycle life of lithium metal batteries (LMBs). Nevertheless, designing a protective layer with desired physicochemical properties is still a challenging task. Herein, an inorganic–organic composite protective layer consisting of fluorinated graphene oxide (FGO) (inorganic part) and polyacrylic acid (PAA) (organic part) that are in situ crosslinked via poly(ethylene glycol) diglycidyl ether (PEGDE) into a robust network is reported. The mechanical strength of FGO and the elasticity of the polymeric network jointly suppress the unwanted dendritic Li growth while fluorine‐functional groups in FGO induce an LiF‐enriched interface. This balanced inorganic–organic composite protective layer facilitates charge transfer kinetics for enhanced lithium‐ion diffusion at the interface. Utilizing this protective layer, LMB full‐cells with LiFePO4 demonstrate negligible capacity loss for 100 cycles even under an extreme negative/positive capacity (N/P) ratio of 1.0. This study uncovers the possibility of highly robust, reliable LMBs by a sophisticatedly designed protective layer of widely used inorganic and organic components.
Discovery of the High‐Entropy Carbide Ceramic Topological Superconductor Candidate (Ti0.2Zr0.2Nb0.2Hf0.2Ta0.2)C
Authors: Zeng Lingyong , Wang Zequan , Song Jing , Lin Gaoting , Guo Ruixin , Luo Si‐Chun , Guo Shu , Li Kuan , Yu Peifeng , Zhang Chao , Guo Wei‐Ming , Ma Jie , Hou Yusheng , Luo Huixia
Published: June 2023

High‐entropy ceramics (HECs) are solid solutions of inorganic compounds with one or more Wyckoff sites shared by equal or near‐equal atomic ratios of multi‐principal elements. Material design and property tailoring possibilities emerge from this new class of materials. Herein, the discovery of superconductivity 2.35 K and topological properties in the (Ti0.2Zr0.2Nb0.2Hf0.2Ta0.2)C high‐entropy carbide ceramic (HECC) is reported, which is not observed before in any of the investigated HECC. Density functional theory calculations show that six type‐II Dirac points exist in (Ti0.2Zr0.2Nb0.2Hf0.2Ta0.2)C, which mainly contributed from the t2g orbitals of transition metals and the p orbitals of C. Due to the stability of the structure, robust superconductivity (SC) under pressure in this HEC superconductor is also observed. This study expands the physical properties of HECs, which may become a new material platform for SC research, especially for studying the coupling between SC and topological physics.
MXene‐Based Anode‐Free Magnesium Metal Battery
Authors: Li Yuanjian , Feng Xiang , Lieu Wei Ying , Fu Lin , Zhang Chang , Ghosh Tanmay , Thakur Anupma , Wyatt Brian C. , Anasori Babak , Liu Wei , Zhang Qianfan , Lu Jun , Seh Zhi Wei
Published: June 2023

Rechargeable magnesium batteries (RMBs) are promising next‐generation low‐cost and high‐energy devices. Among all RMBs, anode‐free magnesium metal batteries that use in situ magnesium‐plated current collectors as negative electrodes can afford optimal energy densities. However, anode‐free magnesium metal batteries have remained elusive so far, as their practical application is plagued by low Mg plating/stripping efficiency due to nonuniform Mg deposition on conventional anode current collectors. Herein, for the first time, an anode‐free Mg‐metal battery is developed by employing a 3D MXene (Ti3C2Tx) film with horizontal Mg electrodeposition. The magnesiophilic oxygen and reactive fluorine terminations in MXene enable an enriched local magnesium‐ion concentration and a durable magnesium fluoride‐rich solid electrolyte interphase on the Ti3C2Tx film surface. Meanwhile, Ti3C2Tx MXene exhibits a high lattice geometrical fit with Mg (≈96%) to guide the horizontal electrodeposition of Mg. Consequently, the developed Ti3C2Tx film achieves reversible Mg plating/stripping with high Coulombic efficiencies (>99.4%) at high‐current‐density (5.0 mA cm−2) and high‐Mg‐utilization (50%) conditions. When this Ti3C2Tx film is coupled with a pre‐magnesized Mo6S8 cathode, the anode‐free Mg‐metal full‐cell prototype exhibits a volumetric energy density five times higher than its standard Mg‐metal counterpart. This work provides insights into the rational design of anode current collectors to guide horizontal Mg electrodeposition for anode‐free Mg metal batteries.
Hollow Mesoporous Metal Organic Framework Single Crystals Enabled by Growth Kinetics Control for Enhanced Photocatalysis
Authors: Zhao Tao , Wang Xin , Sun Zhihao , Wang Haifeng , Qiu Pengpeng , Xiao Qi , Jiang Wan , Wang Lianjun , Bu Fanxing , Luo Wei
Published: June 2023

The tailored design of hollow mesoporous metal−organic framework (MOF) single crystals to realize the unimpeded mass transport and long‐range carrier migration for advanced photoelectric applications is attractive while being a major challenge. Here, a kinetically mediated micelle assembly strategy is presented to synthesize hollow UiO‐66(Ce) single crystals in 1,3,5‐trimethylbenzene (TMB)‐H2O emulsion system with Pluronic F127/P123 as dual surfactants. This synthesis features the employment of modulator acetic acid, which can coordinate growth kinetics of MOFs, allowing the nucleation of MOF on block polymer micelles and transforming the self‐assembly of block polymer/MOF composite monomicelles from water to TMB/H2O emulsion interface and the growth of MOF from aggregation to oriented attachment, and thus ensuring the formation of hollow mesoporous UiO‐66(Ce) single crystals. Moreover, a precise control in cavity diameter from ≈0 to ≈600 nm, mesopore structure from close to radial and dendritic can be achieved by tuning the amount of TMB and the ratio of F127/P123. As a result, the hollow mesoporous UiO‐66(Ce) single crystals with large radial mesopores (≈25 nm) and high surface area (≈1061 m2 g) exhibit excellent photocatalytic performance for H2 generation owing to enhanced permeability and suppressed electron‐hole combination.
Achieving Superior Tensile Performance in Individual Metal−Organic Framework Crystals
Authors: Cheng Junye , Ran Sijia , Li Tian , Yan Ming , Wu Jing , Boles Steven , Liu Bin , Raza Hassan , Ullah Sana , Zhang Wenjun , Chen Guohua , Zheng Guangping
Published: June 2023

Rapid advances in the engineering application prospects of metal−organic framework (MOF) materials necessitate an urgent in‐depth understanding of their mechanical properties. This work demonstrates unprecedented recoverable elastic deformation of Ni‐tetraphenylporphyrins (Ni‐TCPP) MOF nanobelts with a tensile strain as high as 14%, and a projected yield strength‐to‐Young's modulus ratio exceeding the theoretical limit (≈10%) for crystalline materials. Based on first‐principles simulations, the observed behavior of MOF crystal can be attributed to the mechanical deformation induced conformation transition and the formation of helical configuration of dislocations under high stresses, arising from their organic ligand building blocks in the crystal structures. The investigations of the mechanical properties along with electromechanical properties demonstrate that MOF materials have exciting application potential for biomechanics integrated systems, flexible electronics, and nanoelectromechanical devices.
Oxygen‐Deficient Bioceramics: Combination of Diagnosis, Therapy, and Regeneration
Authors: Bigham Ashkan , Raucci Maria Grazia , Zheng Kai , Boccaccini Aldo R. , Ambrosio Luigi
Published: June 2023

The journey of ceramics in medicine has been synchronized with an evolution from the first generation—alumina, zirconia, etc.—to the third —3D scaffolds. There is an up‐and‐coming member called oxygen‐deficient or colored bioceramics, which have recently found their way through biomedical applications. The oxygen vacancy steers the light absorption toward visible and near infrared regions, making the colored bioceramics multifunctional—therapeutic, diagnostic, and regenerative. Oxygen‐deficient bioceramics are capable of turning light into heat and reactive oxygen species for photothermal and photodynamic therapies, respectively, and concomitantly yield infrared and photoacoustic images. Different types of oxygen‐deficient bioceramics have been recently developed through various synthesis routes. Some of them like TiO2−x, MoO3−x, and WOx have been more investigated for biomedical applications, whereas the rest have yet to be scrutinized. The most prominent advantage of these bioceramics over the other biomaterials is their multifunctionality endowed with a change in the microstructure. There are some challenges ahead of this category discussed at the end of the present review. By shedding light on this recently born bioceramics subcategory, it is believed that the field will undergo a big step further as these platforms are naturally multifunctional.
Paper‐Based Laser‐Pyrolyzed Electrofluidics: An Electrochemical Platform for Capillary‐Driven Diagnostic Bioassays
Authors: Bezinge Léonard , Lesinski Jake M. , Suea‐Ngam Akkapol , Richards Daniel A. , deMello Andrew J. , Shih Chih‐Jen
Published: June 2023

Microfluidic paper‐based analytical devices (µPADs) are indispensable tools for disease diagnostics. The integration of electronic components into µPADs enables new device functionalities and facilitates the development of complex quantitative assays. Unfortunately, current electrode fabrication methods often hinder capillary flow, considerably restricting µPAD design architectures. Here, laser‐induced graphenization is presented as an approach to fabricate porous electrodes embedded into cellulose paper. The resulting electrodes not only have high conductivity and electrochemical activity, but also retain wetting properties for capillary transport. Paper‐based electrofluidics, including a lateral flow device for injection analysis of alkaline phosphatase in serum and a vertical flow device for quantitative detection of HPV16 with a CRISPR‐based assay are demonstrated. It is expected that this platform will streamline the development of diagnostic devices that combine the operational simplicity of colorimetric lateral flow tests with the added benefits and possibilities offered by electronic signaling.
Biofilm Microenvironment‐Responsive Self‐Assembly Nanoreactors for All‐Stage Biofilm Associated Infection through Bacterial Cuproptosis‐like Death and Macrophage Re‐Rousing
Authors: Mei Jiawei , Xu Dongdong , Wang Lingtian , Kong Lingtong , Liu Quan , Li Qianming , Zhang Xianzuo , Su Zheng , Hu Xianli , Zhu Wanbo , Ye Ming , Wang Jiaxing , Zhu Chen
Published: June 2023

Bacterial biofilm‐associated infections (BAIs) are the leading cause of prosthetic implant failure. The dense biofilm structure prevents antibiotic penetration, while the highly acidic and H2O2‐rich biofilm microenvironment (BME) dampens the immunological response of antimicrobial macrophages. Conventional treatments that fail to consistently suppress escaping planktonic bacteria from biofilm result in refractory recolonization, allowing BAIs to persist. Herein, a BME‐responsive copper‐doped polyoxometalate clusters (Cu‐POM) combination with mild photothermal therapy (PTT) and macrophage immune re‐rousing for BAI eradication at all stages is proposed. The self‐assembly of Cu‐POM in BME converts endogenous H2O2 to toxic ·OH through chemodynamic therapy (CDT) and generates a mild PTT effect to induce bacterial metabolic exuberance, resulting in loosening the membrane structure of the bacteria, enhancing copper transporter activity and increasing intracellular Cu‐POM flux. Metabolomics reveals that intracellular Cu‐POM overload restricts the TCA cycle and peroxide accumulation, promoting bacterial cuproptosis‐like death. CDT re‐rousing macrophages scavenge planktonic bacteria escaping biofilm disintegration through enhanced chemotaxis and phagocytosis. Overall, BME‐responsive Cu‐POM promotes bacterial cuproptosis‐like death via metabolic interference, while also re‐rousing macrophage immune response for further planktonic bacteria elimination, resulting in all‐stage BAI clearance and providing a new reference for future clinical application.
Recent Progress in Low Threshold Plasmonic Nanolasers
Authors: Wang Ru , Wang Chunfeng , Ma Yi , Sun Jianli , Yan Peiguang , Xu Chunxiang , Pan Caofeng
Published: June 2023

Plasmonic nanolasers as a new class of coherent laser beyond the diffraction limit have attracted a lot of attention. However, the ultrahigh optical confinement caused by the plasmon effect is inevitably accompanied by metal absorption loss, thus increasing the pump threshold of the plasmonic nanolaser. In the past decade, many good results about low threshold plasmonic nanolasers have been realized and successfully extended to various applications. Here, this advance is discussed and some opinions are offered. First, based on the theoretical model and key parameters of the plasmonic nanolaser, the factors affecting the threshold are analyzed. Subsequently, the experimental efforts on the realization of low threshold plasmonic nanolasers from optical pumping to electrical pumping are reviewed. Their applications in on‐chip optical interconnects, biochemical analysis, and far‐field structure are then considered. Finally, feasible approaches to threshold reduction are discussed, as well as more possible applications in the future.
Structured Light Generation Using Angle‐Multiplexed Metasurfaces
Authors: Deng Lin , Jin Renchao , Xu Yihao , Liu Yongmin
Published: June 2023

On the basis of the Jones matrix, independent control over the amplitude and phase of light has been demonstrated by combining several meta‐atoms into the supercell of a metasurface. However, due to the intrinsic limitation of a planar achiral structure, the maximum number of independent, complex elements in one Jones matrix is three, giving rise to up to three‐channel amplitude and phase control. In this work, more Jones matrices corresponding to different angles of incidence are proposed to add, so that the degrees of freedom in the amplitude and phase control can be further increased. The supercell of the designed metasurfaces consists of three dielectric nanoblocks with predefined rotation angles and displacements in the 2D space, which can be inversely determined with the help of the genetic algorithm. Empowered by the ability to realize four‐ or even eight‐channel amplitude and phase control, the generation of multiple structured light, including two independent perfect Poincaré beams, two double‐ring perfect Poincaré beams, two perfect Poincaré beam arrays, and four vector vortex beam arrays, is numerically demonstrated. Such novel designs are expected to benefit the development of modern optical applications, including but not limited to optical communications, quantum information, and signal encryption.
Pixelated Photonic Crystals
Authors: Mur Urban , Ravnik Miha
Published: June 2023

Photonic crystals can prevent or allow light of certain frequencies to propagate in distinct directions in anomalous and useful ways for use as waveguides, laser cavities, and topological light propagation. However, there exist limited approaches for fundamental reconfiguration of photonic crystals, such as changing the unit cell to various and on‐demand geometries and symmetries. This work introduces the concept of pixelated 2D photonic crystals where the variability of the dielectric profile is achieved by a pixelated matrix of the material. Specifically, the cross sections of dielectric cylindrical pillars distributed in a photonic crystal lattice are replaced with pixelated circles using different resolutions and the corresponding band diagrams are calculated. The comparison to the band diagrams of the original structure shows that the original—and today typically used—cylindrical design can be well approximated by as few as square switchable pixels while retaining less than change in the photonic band structure. Experimental realization of switchable pixelation is proposed based on the liquid crystal display (LCD) technology with high birefringence materials. More generally, the demonstrated approach to reconfigurable 2D photonic crystal based on switchable pixels can enable realization of diverse fundamentally reconfigurable advanced optical materials.
Facile Aqueous Solution‐Gel Route toward Thin Film CuBi2O4 Photocathodes for Solar Hydrogen Production
Authors: Joos Bjorn , Elen Ken , van den Ham Jonathan , Meulendijks Nicole , Buskens Pascal , Paulus Andreas , Wouters Koen , Manca Jean , D'Haen Jan , Shukla Sudhanshu , Vermang Bart , Van Bael Marlies , Hardy An
Published: June 2023

A new benign aqueous route toward bismuth‐containing photoelectrodes is proposed to eliminate the need for harmful organic solvents and/or acids. A CuBi2O4 photocathode is prepared by stabilizing the metal ions through complexation in pH neutral aqueous solutions. Merits of the proposed approach are elemental homogeneity (with unique doping possibilities) and ease of fabrication (e.g., high scalability). The prepared aqueous CuBi2O4 precursor forms a nearly phase‐pure kusachiite crystalline phase free of organics residuals and capable of water reduction due to its sufficiently negatively positioned conduction band at −0.4 V versus RHE. Deposition on fluorine doped tin oxide coated glass (FTO/glass) substrates and thermal treatment leads to uniform but granular films of CuBi2O4 with excellent control over stoichiometry and thickness, owing to the facile and non‐destructive synthesis conditions. Ultimately, the optimized CuBi2O4 photocathodes produce AM1.5G photocurrent densities of up to −1.02 mA cm−2 at 0.4 V versus RHE with H2O2 as an electron scavenger, competing with bare CuBi2O4 prepared through less benign non‐aqueous organic synthesis routes.
High‐Performance Silver‐Doped Porous CuBi2O4 Photocathode Integrated with NiO Hole‐Selective Layer for Improved Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Gopannagari Madhusudana , Reddy Kethireddy Arun Joshi , Inae Song , Bae Hyung Suk , Lee Junho , Woo Tae Gyun , Rangappa A. Putta , Kumar Dharani Praveen , Reddy D. Amaranatha , Kim Tae Kyu
Published: June 2023

CuBi2O4(CBO) has received considerable attention owing to its ideal optical bandgap and positive photocurrent onset potential. However, CBO photocathodes exhibit poor charge carrier separation and transfer across the conducting substrate interface. Herein, a systematic incorporation of Ag+‐cations into nanosized porous CBO network (ACBO) using a simple pulsed‐electrodeposition method. In ACBO photocathode, the Ag+‐ions replace the Bi3+‐ions, thereby building an increased hole concentration, which further signifies the photogenerated electron‐hole separation. Additionally, introducing a low‐cost NiO hole‐selective layer between ACBO and the conducting substrate enables a back‐interface‐aided hole‐extraction and electron blocking, resulting in an improved charge transfer across the back interface. Compared with an unmodified CBO, the NiO/ACBO photocathode exhibits a three‐fold enhanced photocurrent performance. This enhances the photocurrent originating from the incorporation of a substantial amount of Ag+‐ions into the CBO structure, leading to an increased acceptor density as well as the formation of an appropriate hole‐selective layer across the back‐contact. The absorption percentage, time‐resolved photoluminescence, and photoelectrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements unveil the potential light harvesting, charge separation, and transfer characteristics of the NACBO photoelectrode, respectively. Through this systematic study, an efficient and simple strategy is determined for developing ternary metal oxide‐based photocathode/photoanode systems for sustainable energy applications.
Highly Selective Photocatalytic Conversion of 5‐Hydroxymethyl‐2‐furfural to 2,5‐Diformylfuran over Gold Ion Exchanged Cadmium Sulfide Nanowire
Authors: Kim Jeongeun , Choi Jiwon , Sasongko Nurwarrohman Andre , Park Myeongkee , Kang Myung Jong , Kim Hyun Sung
Published: June 2023

5‐Hydroxymethyl furfural (HMF) obtained from biomass can be converted to 2,5‐diformylfuran (DFF), a valuable chemical intermediate. However, the typical HMF oxidation process requires energy consumption such as high temperature and oxygen pressure. Herein, Au2S decorated CdS nanowires (denoted as Au2S@CdS NWs) are fabricated by a simple ion exchange method and applied as a heterostructure photocatalyst system for HMF oxidation under mild conditions. Under visible light irradiation, the photocatalytic performance of Au2S@CdS NWs is significantly enhanced compared with pristine CdS NWs, in which Au2S (0.25%)@CdS NWs achieve the high DFF yield (≈95%) for 4 h reaction time. This result means that the heterogeneous interface formed between CdS NWs and Au2S promotes the separation efficiency of photogenerated charges, which leads to high catalytic activity. Moreover, Au2S (0.25%)@CdS NWs work well for HMF conversion to DFF under anaerobic and aerobic conditions. Control experiments and characterization are conducted to investigate each reaction mechanism. Consequently, it is found that the photogenerated hole directly oxidizes HMF to DFF under anaerobic conditions and the1O2produced from oxygen is the active species for HMF conversion to DFF under aerobic conditions.
Locally Supersaturated Inks for a Slot‐Die Process to Enable Highly Efficient and Robust Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Sangale Sushil S. , Kwon Sung‐Nam , Patil Pramila , Lee Hyun‐Jung , Na Seok‐In
Published: June 2023

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs), which debuted with a lot of attention based on high efficiency, are establishing as one of the most promising thin‐film photovoltaic technologies. Currently, research for upscaling and commercialization through eco‐friendly solvent and process systems is being attempted. This study introduces for the first time a rheological engineering‐based locally supersaturated perovskite ink (LSPI) strategy for slot‐die process‐based PSC fabrication suitable for roll‐to‐roll continuous processes. Here, for the greenable slot‐die process, a perovskite precursor ink composed of a low‐toxic dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) single solvent is used and a small amount of 1,2‐dichlorobenzene (DCB) is utilized as a modulator to control the rheological properties of the ink. The addition of DCB lowers the high surface tension of the DMSO‐based perovskite precursor ink to suit the slot‐die process, enabling uniform wet film formation, and produces locally supersaturated colloids, i.e., perovskite seeds, that help growth into dense and large grains by heterogeneous nucleation with low Gibbs‐free energy. As a result, the LSPI enables slot‐die coating‐based PSCs with an efficiency of 20.61% (active areas of 0.1 cm2), which allow high efficiencies of 18.66% and 17.66% (active areas of 2.7 and 8.64 cm2) to be achieved in scale‐up to minimodules, respectively.
Seasonal habitat use of yellow perch Perca flavescens in a north‐temperate lake
Authors: Feucht Levi M. , Sikora Logan W. , Shay Gabrielle P. , Sass Greg G. , Mrnak Joseph T.
Published: June 2023

Knowledge of species‐specific fish biology, ecology, and habitat use is critical for informing science‐based management. Yellow perch Perca flavescens are an ecologically and recreationally important fish species. Yet, for many north‐temperate systems (e.g. inland lakes of Wisconsin), little is known about yellow perch seasonal habitat use and ecology. We characterised yellow perch seasonal spatial distribution, size–structure, and condition between littoral and pelagic habitats in Crystal Lake (Vilas Co., WI) during the open water period of 2021. Seasonal spatial distribution and population size–structure were characterised by contemporaneous sampling in littoral and pelagic habitats using mini‐fyke nets and vertical gill nets, respectively. Relative abundance estimates for yellow perch in the littoral zone were greatest during early spring and declined throughout the open water season. Yellow perch pelagic relative abundance estimates were lowest in spring, peaked at the onset of stratification, and then declined and remained relatively consistent throughout the open water season. In general, yellow perch population size–structure and condition were greatest in the pelagic zone. Our findings suggest that after spring spawning, larger yellow perch prefer/select pelagic habitats, while sub‐adults and juveniles prefer/select littoral habitats, potentially resulting from increased predator refugia and(or) resource availability. Our results emphasise the importance of evaluating gear and fishery assessment bias, particularly when the target species may use a range of habitat types within a system.