bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical Stress Response After Colorectal Resection
Authors: Andersson Bodil , Ansari Daniel , Nordén Morgan , Nilsson Johan , Andersson Roland
Published: November 2013

The human body's response to surgery is correlated with the extent of tissue damage. The aim of the present study was to, over time, map out parameters concerning inflammation, metabolism, nutrition, breathing function, muscle strength, and well-being in elective colorectal surgery. Eighteen patients were prospectively included: colon resection (n = 9) and rectum resection/amputation (n = 9). Postoperative interleukin 10 (IL-10) rose more in the rectum surgery group on day 0 (P = 0.007) and day 3 (P = 0.025). Furthermore, significant differences between groups were detected regarding albumin, prealbumin, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). For albumin and TIBC, this difference was seen even on day 7. C-reactive protein, IL-6, IL-8, glucose, cortisol, insulin, pain, fatigue, nausea, grip strength, and forced expiratory volume in 1 second did not show any differences. No correlation was revealed between measured parameters and postoperative complications. Postoperative levels of IL-10, albumin, prealbumin, and TIBC may be used as determinants of surgical stress after colorectal surgery.
Gastric Bronchogenic Cyst Histologically Diagnosed After Laparoscopic Excision: Report of a Case
Authors: Kurokawa Tomohiro , Yamamoto Masayoshi , Ueda Takanori , Enomoto Tsuyoshi , Inoue Kazunari , Uchida Atsushi , Kikuchi Kazunori , Ohkohchi Nobuhiro
Published: November 2013

Abdominal computed tomography of a 71-year-old man revealed a 3-cm mass in gastric cardia. Although the mass was widely attached to the gastric wall, no clear contrast enhancement was observed. Abdominal magnetic resonance imaging revealed the mass to have homogenous high intensity on T2W1 images and isointensity on T1W1 images. On diffusion-weighted imaging, no high intensity was observed. However, the mass had a smooth surface and was widely attached to the gastric wall, consistent with computed tomography findings. A gastric submucosal tumor was suspected. Laparoscopic tumor resection was performed. Histopathologic diagnosis of the mass was a bronchogenic cyst derived from the respiratory primordium originating in the foregut of the primitive intestine. Such cysts are mostly found in the mediastinum or thoracic cavity; their occurrence on the gastric wall is extremely rare. Despite this, we think that bronchogenic cysts should be considered in the differential diagnosis of abdominal unilocular cystic diseases.
A Case of Benign Schwannoma of the Ascending Colon Treated With Laparoscopic-Assisted Wedge Resection
Authors: Baek Se-Jin , Hwangbo Won , Kim Jin , Kim In-Sun
Published: November 2013

Isolated colonic schwannomas are rare gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumors. Only a small number of cases have been reported. Occurrence of these tumors is more common in the stomach than in the large intestine. These spindle cell lesions are distinct from leiomyoma, leiomyosarcoma, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors because the tumor cells have a distinct immunophenotype, with strong diffuse positivity for S-100 and vimentin, as well as corroborative negative staining of CD117 and smooth muscle markers. We present a case of colonic schwannoma in a 70-year-old woman who had no specific symptoms. The patient was diagnosed with a submucosal tumor in the ascending colon on colonoscopy and abdominal computed tomography. Laparoscopic-assisted wedge resection of colon was performed. The very rare pathologic diagnosis of ascending schwannoma was made postoperatively. This case is interesting because schwannomas of the colon and rectum are extremely rare and are treated by laparoscopic-assisted wedge resection.
A Case of Living Donor Liver Transplant Recipient Treated With Novel Blood Purification “Plasma Diafiltration”
Authors: Hayashi Hironori , Takamura Hiroyuki , Taniguchi Takumi , Nakanuma Shin-ichi , Nakagawara Hisatoshi , Tajima Hidehiro , Kitagawa Hirohisa , Onishi Ichiro , Tani Takashi , Ohta Tetsuo
Published: November 2013

Blood purification therapy is indispensable for liver transplant recipients. The case of a living donor liver transplant recipient who represented graft insufficiency and was supported by novel blood purification “plasma diafiltration” immediately after operation is presented. A 60-year-old woman was referred for living donor liver transplant because of liver cirrhosis due to hepatitis C. Elective living donor liver transplant was performed, but the graft was small for size. Thus, the signs of graft insufficiency appeared immediately after the operation, and plasma diafiltration was used as a bridge to graft regeneration. After plasma diafiltration was started, the recipient recovered promptly, and withdrawal was performed 35 hours after induction without any complications. Plasma diafiltration is a useful and safe liver support for liver transplant recipients, including immediately after liver transplantation.
Repeat Liver Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Complicating Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
Authors: Mochizuki Susumu , Nakayama Hisashi , Higaki Tokio , Okubo Takao , Midorikawa Yutaka , Moriguchi Masamichi , Aramaki Osamu , Yamazaki Shintaro , Sugitani Masahiko , Takayama Tadatoshi
Published: November 2013

The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) complicating primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is between 0.7% and 16%. Repeat liver resection for recurrent HCC complicating PBC is not usually performed and not published because this approach is not generally applicable due to liver dysfunction. We applied repeat liver resection for these diseases. Three patients were diagnosed with PBC. The first HCC was noted at a mean of 6 years (4–17 years) after diagnosis of PBC. The second HCC occurred at a mean of 2.5 years (0.4–3 years) after the first surgery. All patients were treated with curative resection on first and second surgery. The mean overall survival time after the first liver resection was 46 months. Repeat liver resection for recurrent HCC complicating PBC is an option and may improve the outcome.
Abdominal Implantation of Testicles in the Management of Intractable Testicular Pain in Fournier Gangrene
Authors: Chan Cyrus C. , Shahrour Khaled , Collier Ronald D. , Welch Marlene , Chang Shiliang , Williams Mallory
Published: November 2013

Fournier gangrene (FG) is a necrotizing soft tissue infection involving the superficial and fascial planes of the perineum. In many cases of FG, debridement of the scrotum is necessary, leaving definitive management of the exposed testicles a significant surgical challenge. Frequent incidental trauma to the testicles can cause severe pain, especially in laborers. Practical surgical solutions are few and not well detailed. Various options exist, including creating a neoscrotum with adjacent thigh tissue, split-thickness skin grafts (STSGs), or even creating a subcutaneous thigh pocket. We describe a case of abdominal implantation of bilateral testicles for persistent testicular pain in a case where STSGs did not provide adequate protection, adjacent thigh skin was not available for creation of a neoscrotum, and significant cord contracture occurred. We detail the advantages and disadvantages of the commonly described techniques, including this approach, and how in select individuals this may be a suitable alternative.
Dosimetric impact of intrafraction patient motion on MLC‐based 3D‐conformal spatially fractionated radiation therapy treatment of large and bulky tumors
Authors: Misa Josh , Volk Alex , Bernard Mark E. , Clair William St. , Pokhrel Damodar
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the dosimetric impact on spatially fractionated radiation therapy (SFRT) plan quality due to intrafraction patient motion via multi‐field MLC‐based method for treating large and bulky (≥8 cm) unresectable tumors.

Methods

For large tumors, a cone beam CT‐guided 3D conformal MLC‐based SFRT method was utilized with 15 Gy prescription. An MLC GTV‐fitting algorithm provided 1 cm diameter apertures with a 2 cm center‐to‐center distance at the isocenter. This generated a highly heterogeneous sieve‐like dose distribution within an hour, enabling same‐day SFRT treatment. Fifteen previously treated SFRT patients were analyzed (5 head & neck [H&N], 5 chest and lungs, and 5 abdominal and pelvis masses). For each plan, intrafraction motion errors were simulated by incrementally shifting original isocenters of each field in different x‐, y‐, and z‐directions from 1 to 5 mm. The dosimetric metrics analyzed were: peak‐to‐valley‐dose‐ratio (PVDR), percentage of GTV receiving 7.5 Gy, GTV mean dose, and maximum dose to organs‐at‐risk (OARs).

Results

For ±1, ±2, ±3, ±4, and ±5 mm isocenter shifts: PVDR dropped by 3.9%, 3.8%, 4.0%, 4.1%, and 5.5% on average respectively. The GTV(V7.5) remained within 0.2%, and the GTV mean dose remained within 3.3% on average, compared to the original plans. The average PVDR drop for 5 mm shifts was 4.2% for H&N cases, 10% for chest and lung, and 2.2% for abdominal and pelvis cases. OAR doses also increased. The maximum dose to the spinal cord increased by up to 17 cGy in H&N plans, mean lung dose (MLD) changed was small for chest/lung, but the bowel dose varied up to 100 cGy for abdominal and pelvis cases.

Conclusion

Due to tumor size, location, and characteristics of MLC‐based SFRT, isocenter shifts of up to ±5 mm in different directions had moderate effects on PVDR for H&N and pelvic tumors and a larger effect on chest tumors. The dosimetric impact on OAR doses depended on the treatment site. Site‐specific patient masks, Vac‐Lok bags, and proper immobilization devices similar to SBRT/SRT setups should be used to minimize these effects.
Distributed online optimization for integrated energy systems: A multi‐agent system consensus approach
Authors: Wang Guofeng , Liu Yongqi , Zhang Youbing , Yan Jun , Xie Shuzong
Published: July 2024

The integration of multi‐energy within distribution networks has escalated the need for efficient operation and control of integrated energy systems (IES). Addressing the complexities of real‐time scheduling and low‐carbon optimization, we propose a novel artificial intelligence driven multi‐agent system (MAS) approach for modeling the interactions and operations within the multi‐agent integrated energy systems (MA‐IES) framework. In this framework, distinct components such as electric, gas, and heat networks are conceptualized as autonomous agents, each responsible for managing its domain while interacting with other agents to achieve system‐wide efficiency and economical goals. The agents communicate and coordinate through a distributed online optimization framework, utilizing the alternating direction multiplier method (ADMM) to ensure effective consensus despite the inherent nontransparency of information exchange. This MAS based approach allows for dynamic adaptation of strategies based on local data and global objectives, significantly enhancing the responsiveness and adaptability of MA‐IES. We further integrate an objective function reliant on a tiered carbon pricing mechanism to assess and minimize the environmental impact of operations. Enhanced by adaptive penalty coefficients within the ADMM, our MA‐IES framework demonstrates improved convergence rates and robustness in operational scenarios. Empirical validation through detailed case studies confirms the superior performance of our MAS‐based model, demonstrating its potential to realize an efficient and economical low‐carbon operation of MA‐IES.
“Groups”: Buprenorphine clinics require weekly therapy
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2024

Groups Recover Together (Groups), founded in 2014, is a quickly expanding enterprise. It is a bricks‐and‐mortar buprenorphine treatment program, funded mainly by venture capital and with a business model that can't fail: If patients don't recover, the payer gets their money back. Now relying on this “value‐based contracting” method, an easy sell to many Medicaid authorities, the organization has 12 facilities and treats 20,000 patients a week, according to Cooper Zelnick, chief revenue officer.
On the Origin of Extrinsic Size Effects on the Fracture Resistance of Thin ETP Copper Sheets
Authors: Prasad Akshaye , Awale Deepshree , Sahasrabuddhe Hrushikesh , Jaya Balila Nagamani
Published: July 2024

Size effects are well known to influence the mechanical behavior of materials and impact the structural integrity and reliability of devices such as thin films, coatings, foils, and sheet metals. There is little literature on extrinsic (specimen size) effects on fracture resistance of thin polycrystalline sheets while keeping the internal parameters constant. Herein, we determine the impact of specimen thickness on the fracture behavior of electrolytic tough pitch (ETP grade) Cu sheets, under two different grain sizes and initial dislocation densities. Elastic–plastic fracture mechanics (EPFM) combined with digital image correlation‐based full‐field strain mapping has been utilized to determine both the fracture resistance and plastic zone evolution as a function of specimen thickness. A smaller is weaker trend has been observed in both conditions. The specimen thickness effect is quantified in terms of a size exponent and is related to the truncation of the process zone ahead of growing crack, leading to reduced fracture resistance. The effect of intrinsic microstructural parameters such as grain size and dislocation density on the strain hardening ability, tensile elongation to fracture, and fracture toughness is also quantified and the plastic strain is found to correlate with fracture toughness.
The Rise of Multivalent Metal–Sulfur Batteries: Advances, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Zhao Jing , Xiao Yao‐Yu , Liu Qing , Wu Jianbo , Jiang Zhi‐Chao , Zeng Hongbo
Published: July 2024

As the “star of hope” for the next‐generation high‐energy‐density batteries, lithium–sulfur batteries (Li–S batteries) face severe challenges such as reserves, costs, and safety, which seriously restrict their practical application. Alternatively, research on multivalent metals (e.g., Mg, Ca, Al, Zn, etc.) as anodes, characterized by less reactivity and higher natural abundance, is gaining increasing attention and urgent demand. However, metal–sulfur (M–S) battery technology based on multivalent metal anodes is still in its infancy and not yet mature for practical application. This review provides insights into the challenges and prospects of multivalent M–S batteries, covering fundamental mechanisms, key issues, response strategies, and the latest advancements in flexible/micro energy storage devices. Furthermore, a general perspective and future research directions are also presented in this review. This review aims to explore opportunities for emerging multivalent M–S batteries and support the development of next‐generation high‐energy‐density energy storage systems.
Enhanced Cryogenic Magnetocaloric Effect from 4f‐3d Exchange Interaction in B‐Site Ordered Gd2CuTiO6 Double Perovskite Oxide
Authors: Zhang Yikun , Na Yingzhe , Hao Weixiang , Gottschall Tino , Li Lingwei
Published: July 2024

Magnetic refrigeration based on the principle of the magnetocaloric effect (MCE) in magnetic solids has been considered as a prospective cooling technology. Exploring suitable magnetocaloric materials (MCMs) is a vital prerequisite for practical applications. Herein, an excellent cryogenic MCM—the B‐site‐ordered Gd2CuTiO6 double perovskite (DP) oxide—which exhibits the largest MCE among known Gd‐based DP oxides, is identified. Such enhanced cryogenic MCE in the Gd2CuTiO6 DP oxide likely stems from the exchange interaction effect between Gd‐4f and Cu‐3d magnetic sublattices. Under a magnetic field change of 0–7 T, the maximum magnetic entropy change (−ΔSTmax) of the Gd2CuTiO6 DP oxide reaches 51.4 J kg−1 K−1 (378.2 mJ cm−3 K−1), which is much larger than that of the commercialized magnetic refrigerant Gd3Ga5O12, which is 38.3 J kg−1 K−1 (271.2 mJ cm−3 K−1), and it is also superior to most of the recently reported benchmarked cryogenic MCMs, indicating the possibility for practical applications. This work also provides a productive route for future cryogenic MCM design by harnessing 4f–3d exchange interactions.
Sweat Gland‐Like Fabric for Personal Thermal‐Wet Comfort Management
Authors: Zhang Qian , Wang Manyu , Chen Tao , Chen Zipeng , Liu Dongfang , Zhang Zhixun , Zhuo Lei , Wang Yuge , Xiao Xingfang , Zhu Bin , Li Li , Xu Weilin
Published: July 2024

The sweat evaporation strategy has shown great potential for passive cooling of the human body. However, the accumulation of sweat at the skin resulting from the hindrance by traditional fabrics increases the heat load and causes the clothing to stick to the skin. Sweat evaporation cooling textiles that perform the sweat‐wicking function of sweat glands are thus highly desirable. Here, a sweat gland‐like (Sg‐like) fabric is proposed for personal thermal‐wet comfort management. The Sg‐like channels formed in the fabric through spraying and ultrasonic welding processes can pull liquid water from the skin and spread it out over the outer layer of the fabric for rapid evaporation. The Sg‐like design principle is also well‐validated based on colored fabrics. In artificial sweating skin demonstrations, the temperature of skin covered with the Sg‐like fabric is comparable to that of bare skin and lower than that of skin covered with commercial textiles. In human body tests, a temperature reduction of ≈2 °C is observed in sweating for skin coated with the Sg‐like fabric compare with skin‐coated cotton. It is expected this work offers promising guidelines for developing a sweat‐evaporation cooling textile to meet the thermal‐wet comfort requirements of the human body.
Electro‐Ionic‐Field Regulation through Dipole Molecule Layer toward Dendrite‐Free Zinc Anode
Authors: Cai Shan , Hu Jiugang , Wu Riyan , Luo Yuqing , Xin Yuntao , Zou Guoqiang , Hou Hongshuai , Ji Xiaobo
Published: July 2024

Zinc metal is a high‐capacity and cost‐effective anode material for aqueous zinc‐ion batteries, but its development is impeded by dendrite growth and interfacial side reactions. In this study, a unique dipole molecule (DPM) layer is constructed on a zinc surface via an in situ etching‐growth strategy to regulate the surface electric field and ion distribution. Theoretical calculations and experiments confirm that the asymmetrical charge distribution within the DPM layer can significantly remodel the electric field of the Zn anode surface. The zincophilic DPM layer accelerates the migration of zinc ions through ordered ion channels. Electro‐ionic field regulation via the DPM layer achieves dendrite‐free deposition and reduces the formation of byproducts. The DPM‐Zn symmetrical cells exhibit ultralow voltage hysteresis (≈ 24.2 mV), highly reversible zinc plating/stripping behavior, and stable cycling over 1700 h at 1 mA cm−2. The DPM‐Zn||MnO2 full cells exhibited a higher specific capacity and cycle stability than the bare Zn anode. This work verifies the feasibility of electro‐ionic‐field synergistic regulation for robust Zn anodes and provides new insights into the interface design of metal anodes.
Nanomaterial‐Mediated Delivery of MLKL Plasmids Sensitizes Tumors to Immunotherapy and Reduces Metastases
Authors: Chu Tianjiao , Maksoudian Christy , Pedrotti Stefania , Izci Mukaddes , Perez Gilabert Irati , Koutsoumpou Xanthippi , Sargsian Ara , Girmatsion Hermon , Goncalves Filipa Roque , Scheele Colinda LGJ , Manshian Bella B. , Soenen Stefaan J.
Published: July 2024

Cancer immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach for the induction of an antitumor response. While immunotherapy response rates are very high in some cancers, the efficacy against solid tumors remains limited caused by the presence of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Induction of immunogenic cell death (ICD) in the tumor can be used to boost immunotherapy response in solid cancers by eliciting the release of immune‐stimulatory components. However, the delivery of components inducing ICD to tumor sites remains a challenge. Here, a novel delivery method is described for antitumor therapy based on MLKL (Mixed Lineage Kinase Domain‐Like), a key mediator of necroptosis and inducer of ICD. A novel highly branched poly (β‐amino ester)s (HPAEs) system is designed to efficiently deliver MLKL plasmid DNA to the tumor with consequent enhancement of immune antigen presentation for T cell responses in vitro, and improved antitumor response and prolonged survival in tumor‐bearing mice. Combination of the therapy with anti‐PD‐1 treatment revealed significant changes in the composition of the tumor microenvironment, including increased infiltration of CD8+ T cells and tumor‐associated lymphocytes. Overall, the HPAEs delivery system can enhance MLKL‐based cancer immunotherapy and promote antitumor immune responses, providing a potential treatment to boost cancer immunotherapies.
Dual‐Barb Microneedle with JAK/STAT Inhibitor‐Loaded Nanovesicles Encapsulation for Tendinopathy
Authors: Chen Minhao , Zou Fengkai , Wang Pei , Hu Wenbo , Shen Peng , Wu Xinyuan , Xu Hua , Rui Yunfeng , Wang Xiansong , Wang Youhua
Published: July 2024

Tendon stem/progenitor cells (TSPCs) are crucial for tendon repair, regeneration, and homeostasis. Dysfunction of TSPCs, due to aberrant activation of the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway, contributes to tendinopathy. Unfortunately, the effectiveness of conventional subcutaneous injection targeting at suppressing JAK/STAT signaling pathway is limited due to the passive diffusion of drugs away from the injury site. Herein, a novel poly‐gamma‐glutamic acid (γ‐PGA) dual‐barb microneedle (MN) path loaded with TSPCs‐derived nanovesicles (NVs) containing JAK/STAT inhibitor WP1066 (MN‐WP1066‐NVs) for tendinopathy treatment is designed. The dual‐barb design of the MN ensures firm adhesion to the skin, allowing for sustained and prolonged release of WP1066‐NVs, facilitating enhanced TSPCs self‐renewal, migration, and stemness in tendinopathy. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate that the degradation of γ‐PGA patch tips facilitates the gradual release of WP1066‐NVs at the lesion site. This release alleviates inflammation, suppresses extracellular matrix degradation, and restores normal tendon histological structure by inhibiting the JAK/STAT pathway. These findings suggest that the multifunctional dual‐barb MN patch offers a novel and effective therapeutic strategy for tendinopathy treatment.
Pseudo‐Jahn–Teller Effect Breaks the pH Dependence in Two‐Electron Oxygen Electroreduction
Authors: Xia Baokai , Du Jiale , Li Ming , Duan Jingjing , Chen Sheng
Published: July 2024

The hydrogenation of small molecules (like O2 and CO2) often exhibits strong activity dependence on pHs because of discrepant proton donor environments. However, some catalysts can show seldom dependence on two‐electron oxygen electroreduction, a sustainable route of O2 hydrogenation to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). In this work, a pH‐resistant oxygen electroreduction system arising from the pseudo‐Jahn–Teller effect is demonstrated. Thorough operando Raman spectra, local environment analyses and density function theory simulations, the lattice distortion of TiOxFy that introduces the pseudo‐Jahn–Teller effect contributing to regulating local pHs at electrode–electrolyte interfaces and the absorption/desorption of key *OOH intermediate is revealed. Consequently, as comparison to 78.6% activity attenuation for common catalyst, the TiOxFy displays minor activity decay (3.2%) in the pH range of 1–13 with remarkable Faradaic efficiencies (93.4–96.4%) and H2O2 yield rates (595–614 mg cm−2 h−1) in the current densities of 100–1000 mA cm−2. Further techno‐economics analyses display the H2O2 production cost dependent on pHs, giving the lowest H2O2 price of $0.37 kg−1. The present finding is expected to provide an additional dimension to pseudo‐Jahn–Teller effect that leverages systems beyond traditional conception.
Suppressed Defects by Functional Thermally Cross‐Linked Fullerene for High‐Efficiency Tin‐Lead Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhao Jinbo , Su Zhenhuang , Pascual Jorge , Wu Hongzhuo , Wang Haibin , Aldamasy Mahmoud H. , Zhou Zhengji , Wang Chenyue , Li Guixiang , Li Zhe , Gao Xingyu , Hsu Chain‐Shu , Li Meng
Published: July 2024

Mixed tin‐lead (Sn‐Pb) perovskites have attracted the attention of the community due to their narrow bandgap, ideal for photovoltaic applications, especially tandem solar cells. However, the oxidation and rapid crystallization of Sn2+ and the interfacial traps hinder their development. Here, cross‐linkable [6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric styryl dendron ester (C‐PCBSD) is introduced during the quenching step of perovskite thin film processing to suppress the generation of surface defects at the electron transport layer interface and improve the bulk crystallinity. The C‐PCBSD has strong coordination ability with Sn2+ and Pb2+ perovskite precursors, which retards the crystallization process, suppresses the oxidation of Sn2+, and improves the perovskite bulk and surface crystallinity, yielding films with reduced nonradiative recombination and enhanced interface charge extraction. Besides, the C‐PCBSD network deposited on the perovskite surface displays superior hydrophobicity and oxygen resistance. Consequently, the devices with C‐PCBSD obtain PCEs of up to 23.4% and retained 97% of initial efficiency after 2000 h of storage in a N2 atmosphere.
Retinomorphic Color Perception Based on Opponent Process Enabled by Perovskite Bipolar Photodetectors
Authors: Ng Si En , Yantara Natalia , Tu Ngo Anh , Erdenebileg Enkhtur , Li Patrick Wen Feng , Sharma Divyam , Lam Yeng Ming , Mhaisalkar Subodh , Basu Arindam , Chattopadhyay Anupam , Mathews Nripan
Published: July 2024

The ability to perceive color by the retina can be attributed to both its trichromatic photoreceptors and the antagonistic neural wiring known as the opponent process. While neuromorphic sensors have been shown to demonstrate memory and adaptation capabilities, color perception is still challenging due to the intrinsic lack of spectral selectivity in narrow bandgap semiconductors. Furthermore, research on emulating neural wiring is severely lacking. The combination of halide perovskite materials with a tunable bandgap and a novel bipolar photodetector design emulates the efficiency of the retina in processing color information. The stimuli‐responsive material is also responsible for maintaining partial color constancy—an adaptation feature. Leveraging the unique enhancement of color contrasts, an in‐sensor data compression and edge detection can also be demonstrated. The color perception, chromatic adaptation, and color contrast enhancement make perovskite bipolar photodetectors a unique example where the sensor and neural wiring can be co‐developed in conjunction.
Achieving High‐Capacity Cathode Presodiation Agent Via Triggering Anionic Oxidation Activity in Sodium Oxide
Authors: Chen Yilong , Zhu Yuanlong , Sun Zhefei , Kuai Xiaoxiao , Chen Jianken , Zhang Baodan , Yin Jianhua , Luo Haiyan , Tang Yonglin , Zeng Guifan , Zhang Kang , Li Li , Xu Juping , Yin Wen , Qiu Yongfu , Zou Yeguo , Ning Ziyang , Ouyang Chuying , Zhang Qiaobao , Qiao Yu , Sun Shi‐Gang
Published: July 2024

Compensating for the irreversible loss of limited active sodium (Na) is crucial for enhancing the energy density of practical sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) full‐cell, especially when employing hard carbon anode with initially lower coulombic efficiency. Introducing sacrificial cathode presodiation agents, particularly those that own potential anionic oxidation activity with a high theoretical capacity, can provide additional sodium sources for compensating Na loss. Herein, Ni atoms are precisely implanted at the Na sites within Na2O framework, obtaining a (Na0.89Ni0.05□0.06)2O (Ni–Na2O) presodiation agent. The synergistic interaction between Na vacancies and Ni catalyst effectively tunes the band structure, forming moderate Ni–O covalent bonds, activating the oxidation activity of oxygen anion, reducing the decomposition overpotential to 2.8 V (vs Na/Na+), and achieving a high presodiation capacity of 710 mAh/g≈Na2O (Na2O decomposition rate >80%). Incorporating currently‐modified presodiation agent with Na3V2(PO4)3 and Na2/3Ni2/3Mn1/3O2 cathodes, the energy density of corresponding Na‐ion full‐cells presents an essential improvement of 23.9% and 19.3%, respectively. Further, not limited to Ni–Na2O, the structure–function relationship between the anionic oxidation mechanism and electrode–electrolyte interface fabrication is revealed as a paradigm for the development of sacrificial cathode presodiation agent.
A Coplanar Edible Rechargeable Battery with Enhanced Capacity
Authors: Galli Valerio , Annese Valerio F. , Coco Giulia , Cataldi Pietro , Scribano Vincenzo , Ilic Ivan K. , Athanassiou Athanassia , Caironi Mario
Published: July 2024

Edible rechargeable batteries represent a novel opportunity for energy storage, which currently involves the use of toxic materials. Being entirely made of food‐derived materials and additives, such batteries open the way to electronic systems characterized by unprecedented features. Their sustainability and safety can be crucial for replacing traditional batteries in low‐power applications, like agrifood and medicine, reducing environmental impact and health hazards. Yet, limitations in capacity and architecture, and concerns about stability at elevated temperature, humidity, and prolonged storage time, severely limit their current application potential. Here, a new coplanar architecture of a riboflavin‐quercetin edible battery with increased capacity, reaching 20 µAh, and operational stability of two weeks is presented. The battery is tested in diverse environmental conditions to assess its possible implementation in different scenarios, showing stable performance between 0 and 37 °C. As a proof‐of‐concept application, the coplanar architecture is exploited to develop a 3‐cell battery with a voltage of ≈2 V and demonstrate the possibility of powering a commercial Internet of Things (IoT) module. The new design and data herein presented represent significant steps toward widening the opportunities offered by edible batteries and their implementation in low‐power electronics.
Facile Wet‐Process to Free‐Standing Whispering Gallery Mode Resonators Mixed with Spherical Silica Gel and π‐Conjugated Molecules
Authors: Matsuo Takumi , Tanikubo Hiroki , Hayashi Shotaro
Published: July 2024

Whispering‐gallery‐mode (WGM) resonators composed of organic and/or inorganic materials have been used in highly sensitive sensors, logic gates, and miniaturized lasers because of the total internal reflection of photons. However, most fabrication methods have been limited to bottom‐up self‐assembly; whereas, a facile top‐down process is preferable. Here, a wet‐process fabrication of WGM resonators mixed with 5 µm‐diameter spherical silica‐gels and various π‐conjugated compounds is demonstrated. The materials are fabricated by dip‐coating photoluminescent molecules onto submicron‐scale silica‐gel spheres. The shapes and large specific surface areas of templates are maintained before and after coating, and the coated molecules are uniformly distributed. The hybrid spheres provided WGM photoluminescence spectra based on the total internal reflection of photoluminescence in the sphere. The hybrid spheres are applicable as WGM sensors because of their large specific surface area (>4 × 102 m2 g−1). In particular, gas sensing of toluene, which has been used as a standard for environmental contamination, and found that the WGM photoluminescence peaks are shifted by 5 nm is demonstrated. The detection resolution is calculated to be several hundred ppm level. The hybrid spheres can be placed or transferred onto various surfaces without micromanipulation, which suggested a wide range of possible applications.
Advancements in APOE and dementia research: Highlights from the 2023 AAIC Advancements: APOE conference
Authors: Kloske Courtney M. , Belloy Michael E. , Blue Elizabeth E. , Bowman Gregory R. , Carrillo Maria C. , Chen Xiaoying , Chiba‐Falek Ornit , Davis Albert A. , Paolo Gilbert Di , Garretti Francesca , Gate David , Golden Lesley R. , Heinecke Jay W. , Herz Joachim , Huang Yadong , Iadecola Costantino , Johnson Lance A. , Kanekiyo Takahisa , Karch Celeste M. , Khvorova Anastasia , Koppes‐den Hertog Sascha J. , Lamb Bruce T. , Lawler Paige E. , Guen Yann Le , Litvinchuk Alexandra , Liu Chia‐Chen , Mahinrad Simin , Marcora Edoardo , Marino Claudia , Michaelson Danny M. , Miller Justin J. , Morganti Josh M. , Narayan Priyanka S. , Naslavsky Michel S. , Oosthoek Marlies , Ramachandran Kapil V. , Ramakrishnan Abhirami , Raulin Ana‐Caroline , Robert Aiko , Saleh Rasha N. M. , Sexton Claire , Shah Nilomi , Shue Francis , Sible Isabel J. , Soranno Andrea , Strickland Michael R. , TCW Julia , Thierry Manon , Tsai Li‐Huei , Tuckey Ryan A. , Ulrich Jason D. , van der Kant Rik , Wang Na , Wellington Cheryl L. , Weninger Stacie C. , Yassine Hussein N. , Zhao Na , Bu Guojun , Goate Alison M. , Holtzman David M.
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION

The apolipoprotein E gene (APOE) is an established central player in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), with distinct apoE isoforms exerting diverse effects. apoE influences not only amyloid‐beta and tau pathologies but also lipid and energy metabolism, neuroinflammation, cerebral vascular health, and sex‐dependent disease manifestations. Furthermore, ancestral background may significantly impact the link between APOE and AD, underscoring the need for more inclusive research.

METHODS

In 2023, the Alzheimer's Association convened multidisciplinary researchers at the “AAIC Advancements: APOE” conference to discuss various topics, including apoE isoforms and their roles in AD pathogenesis, progress in apoE‐targeted therapeutic strategies, updates on disease models and interventions that modulate apoE expression and function.

RESULTS

This manuscript presents highlights from the conference and provides an overview of opportunities for further research in the field.

DISCUSSION

Understanding apoE's multifaceted roles in AD pathogenesis will help develop targeted interventions for AD and advance the field of AD precision medicine.

Highlights

APOE is a central player in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease.

APOE exerts a numerous effects throughout the brain on amyloid‐beta, tau, and other pathways.

The AAIC Advancements: APOE conference encouraged discussions and collaborations on understanding the role of APOE.
Optimizing cutpoints for clinical interpretation of brain amyloid status using plasma p‐tau217 immunoassays
Authors: Figdore Daniel J. , Griswold Michael , Bornhorst Joshua A. , Graff‐Radford Jonathan , Ramanan Vijay K. , Vemuri Prashanthi , Lowe Val J. , Knopman David S. , Jack Clifford R. , Petersen Ronald C. , Algeciras‐Schimnich Alicia
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION

We aimed to evaluate clinical interpretation cutpoints for two plasma phosphorylated tau (p‐tau)217 assays (ALZpath and Lumipulse) as predictors of amyloid status for implementation in clinical practice.

METHODS

Clinical performance of plasma p‐tau217 against amyloid positron emission tomography status was evaluated in participants with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia (n = 427).

RESULTS

Using a one‐cutpoint approach (negative/positive), neither assay achieved ≥ 90% in both sensitivity and specificity. A two‐cutpoint approach yielding 92% sensitivity and 96% specificity provided the desired balance of false positives and false negatives, while categorizing 20% and 39% of results as indeterminate for the Lumipulse and ALZpath assays, respectively.

DISCUSSION

This study provides a systematic framework for selection of assay‐specific cutpoints for clinical use of plasma p‐tau217 for determination of amyloid status. Our findings suggest that a two‐cutpoint approach may have advantages in optimizing diagnostic accuracy while minimizing potential harm from false positive results.

Highlights

Phosphorylated tau (p‐tau)217 cutpoints for detection of amyloid pathology were established.

A two‐cutpoint approach exhibited the best performance for clinical laboratory use.

p‐tau217 assays differed in the percentage of results categorized as intermediate.
Low‐Dose Interleukin‐2 Reverses Traumatic Brain Injury‐Induced Cognitive Deficit and Pain in a Murine Model
Authors: Czerpaniak Katherine , do Nascimento Leandro Flores , Guo Tingting , Zhang Jintao , Liu Xuemei , Sarzaeim Mojdeh , Fine Zachary D. , Cao Yu‐Qing
Published: July 2024

Objective

Despite the high prevalence, mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)‐induced chronic headache and cognitive deficits are poorly understood and lack effective treatments. Low‐dose interleukin‐2 (LD‐IL‐2) treatment soon after mTBI or overexpressing IL‐2 in brain astrocytes prior to injury protects mice from developing post‐traumatic headache (PTH)‐related behaviors and cognitive decline. The present study addresses a clinically relevant knowledge gap: whether LD‐IL‐2 treatment long after the initial injury is still effective for chronic PTH and cognitive deficits.

Methods

mTBI was induced by a noninvasive closed‐head weight drop method. LD‐IL‐2 was administered 4–6 weeks post‐mTBI to assess its effects on chronic PTH‐related facial mechanical hypersensitivity as well as mTBI‐induced impairment in novel object recognition and object location tests. Endogenous regulatory T (Treg) cells were depleted to investigate the mechanism of action of LD‐IL‐2.

Results

Delayed LD‐IL‐2 treatment abolished chronic PTH‐related behaviors. It also completely reversed mTBI‐induced cognitive impairment in both male and female mice. Treg cell depletion not only prolonged PTH‐related behaviors but also abolished the effects of LD‐IL‐2. Interestingly, LD‐IL‐2 treatment significantly increased the number of Treg cells in dura but not in brain tissues.

Interpretation

These results suggest that the beneficial effects of LD‐IL‐2 treatment are mediated through the expansion of meningeal Treg cells. Collectively, our study identifies Treg as a cellular target and LD‐IL‐2 as a promising therapy for both chronic PTH and mTBI‐induced cognitive impairment for both males and females, with a wide therapeutic time window and the potential of reducing polypharmacy in mTBI treatment. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:508–525
Versatile Dehydration‐Assisted Functionalization of Quantum Dots and Rods
Authors: Chen Chi , Luo Xin , Bathe Mark
Published: July 2024

Functionalization of quantum dots (QDs) and quantum rods (QRs) with ligands is essential for their further practical application across various domains. Dehydration‐assisted functionalization (DAF) is a versatile method applicable to a wide range of hydrophilic ligands with an affinity to the surface of QDs and QRs. This approach facilitates rapid one‐pot ligand exchange and dense modification by efficiently transferring these ligands onto the surface of QDs and QRs. This study demonstrates the efficacy of DAF in preparing chiral QRs, engineering the surface charge of QDs, utilizing QR aggregates, and conjugating dense DNA onto cadmium‐free InP/ZnS QDs. DAF therefore offers a versatile solution for hydrophilic ligand functionalization of QDs and QRs applicable to diverse applications.
Leap‐Type Response of Redox/Photo‐Active Lanthanide‐Based Metal–Organic Frameworks for Early and Accurate Screening of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Ge Kaiming , Chen Guoli , Zhang Dapeng , Hao Ji‐Na , Li Yongsheng
Published: July 2024

The development of high‐accuracy technologies to distinguish the quite tiny concentration change of tumor markers between negative and positive is of vital significance for early screening and diagnosis of cancers, but is still a great challenge for the conventional biosensors because of their “gradual” detection mode. Herein, a unique “leap‐type” responsive lanthanide MOF‐based biosensor (designated as Tb‐CeMOF‐X) with defect‐mediated redox‐/photo‐activities is developed for precisely identifying acid phosphatase (ACP), an early pathological marker of prostate cancer (PCa) in serum. The engineered Tb‐CeMOF‐X probe achieves a bursting switch‐on luminescence at the critical concentration of ACP (9 U ⋅ L−1), while keeping silent below this threshold, undergoing a qualitative signal change from “zero” to “one” between negative and positive indicators and thus significantly improving the identification precision. Significantly, such “leap‐type” response performance can be further edited and amplified by rational defect engineering in the crystal structure to improve the accessibility of active centers, consequently maximizing the detection sensitivity toward ACP in the complex biological media. This study proposes the first paradigm for the development of “leap‐type” biosensors with ultra‐sensitive differentiation capability between negative and positive, and provides a potentially valuable tool for early and accurate screening of PCa.
The Effects of Pore Defects in π‐Extended Pentadecabenzo[9]helicene
Authors: Zhu Ke‐Lin , Li Zhi‐Ao , Liang Jiaqi , Zou Kang‐Li , Shen Yun‐Jia , Gong Han‐Yuan
Published: July 2024

The introduction of precise pore defects into nanocarbon structures results in the emergence of distinct physicochemical characteristics. However, there is a lack of research on non‐planar chiral nanographene involving precise pore defects. Herein, we have developed two analogues to the π‐extended pentadecabenzo[9]helicene (EP9H) containing embedded pore defects. Each molecules, namely extended dodecabenzo[7]helicene (ED7H; 1) or extended nonabenzo[5]helicene (EN5H; 2), exhibits dual‐state emission. Significantly, the value of |glum| of 1 is exceptionally high at 1.41×10−2 in solution and BCPL as 254 M−1 cm−1. In PMMA film, |glum| of 1 is 8.56×10−3, and in powder film, it is 5.00×10−3. This study demonstrates that nanocarbon molecules with pore defects exhibit dual‐state emission properties while maintaining quite good chiral luminescence properties. It was distinguished from the aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) effect corresponding to the nanocarbon without embedded defect. Incorporating pore defects into chiral nanocarbon molecules also simplifies the synthesis process and enhances the solubility of the resulting product. These findings suggest that the introduction of pore defects can be a viable approach to improve nanocarbon molecules.
Vaporchromic Domino Transformation and Polarized Photonic Heterojunctions of Organoplatinum Microrods
Authors: Chen Jian‐Cheng , Gong Zhong‐Liang , Li Zhong‐Qiu , Zhao Yuan‐Yuan , Tang Kun , Ma Dian‐Xue , Xu Fa‐Feng , Zhong Yu‐Wu
Published: July 2024

Photonic heterostructures with codable properties have shown great values as versatile information carriers at the micro‐ and nanoscale. These heterostructures are typically prepared by a step‐by‐step growth or post‐functionalization method to achieve varied emission colors with different building blocks. In order to realize high‐throughput and multivariate information loading, we report here a strategy to integrate polarization signals into photonic heterojunctions. A U‐shaped di‐Pt(II) complex has been assembled into highly polarized yellow‐phosphorescent crystalline microrods (Y‐rod) by strong intermolecular Pt⋅⋅⋅Pt interaction. Upon end‐initiated desorption of the incorporated CH2Cl2 solvents, the Y‐rod is transformed in a domino fashion into tri‐block polarized photonic heterojunctions (PPHs) with alternate red‐yellow‐red emissions or red‐phosphorescent microrods (R‐rods). The red emissions of these structures are also highly polarized; however, their polarization directions are just orthogonal to those of the yellow phosphorescence of the Y‐rod. With the aid of a patterned mask, the R‐rod can be further programmed into multi‐block PPHs with precisely controlled block sizes by side‐allowed adsorption of CH2Cl2 vapor. X‐ray diffraction analysis and theoretical calculations suggest that the solvent‐regulated modulation of the crystal packing and excited‐state property is critical for the construction of these PPHs.
Engineering xylose induction in Vibrio natriegens for biomanufacturing applications
Authors: VanArsdale Eric , Kelly Erin , Sayer Cameron V. , Vora Gary J. , Tschirhart Tanya
Published: July 2024

Xylose is an abundant, inexpensive and readily available carbohydrate common in minimally processed feedstocks such as seaweed and algae. While a wide variety of marine microbes have evolved to utilize seaweed and algae, only a few currently have the requisite characteristics and genetic engineering tools necessary to entertain the use of these underutilized feedstocks. The rapidly growing Gram‐negative halophilic bacterium Vibrio natriegens is one such chassis. In this study, we engineered and tested xylose induction in V. natriegens as a tool for scalable bioproduction applications. First, we created a sensing construct based on the xylose operon from Escherichia coli MG1665 and measured its activity using a fluorescent reporter and identified that cellular import plays a key role in induction strength and that expression required the XylR transcription factor. Next, we identified that select deletions of the promoter region enhance gene expression, limiting the effect of carbohydrate repression when xylose is used as an inducer in the presence of industrially relevant carbon sources. Lastly, we used the optimized constructs to produce the biopolymer melanin using seawater mimetic media. One of these formulations utilized a nori‐based seaweed extract as an inducer and demonstrated melanin yields comparable to previously optimized methods using a more traditional and costly inducer. Together, the results demonstrate that engineering xylose induction in V. natriegens can provide an effective and lower cost option for timed biosynthesis in scalable biomanufacturing applications using renewable feedstocks.
AML cell‐derived exosomes suppress the activation and cytotoxicity of NK cells in AML via PD‐1/PD‐L1 pathway
Authors: Wang Dandan , Zhou Fanchen , He Leiyu , Wang Xiaohong , Song Lingrui , Wang Haoyu , Sun Shibo , Guo Zhaoming , Ma Kun , Xu Jianqiang , Cui Changhao
Published: July 2024

Exosomes are bilayer lipid bodies and contain a variety of bioactive molecules such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, and so forth. Exosomes derived from solid tumors may play critical roles in tumor development and immune evasion. However, the underlying effects of tumor‐derived exosomes on immune function in modulating intercellular crosstalk within the bone marrow niche during acute myeloid leukemia (AML) development and immune evasion remain largely elusive. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of AML‐exos in AML immune evasion. First, we isolated tumor‐derived exosomes from AML cells (AML‐exos) and revealed the presence of programmed cell death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) protein in AML‐exos. Next, we demonstrated that AML‐exos can directly suppress the activation of natural killer (NK) cells and inhibit the cytotoxicity of NK cells, probably through activating the programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1)/PD‐L1 pathway. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of AML‐exos on NK cells could be alleviated by either PD‐L1 inhibitor or antagonist. In summary, we demonstrated that AML‐exos possess a PD‐L1‐dependent tumor‐promoting effect which may contribute to immune tolerance in antitumor therapy, but blocking the PD‐1/PD‐L1 pathway may alleviate the tumor immunosuppression induced by AML‐exos. Our findings in this study may offer a new immunotherapy strategy to cure AML.
Annular papulovesicular lesions with a purpuric center in a female inpatient
Authors: Alvarez Martinez David , Kaya Gürkan , Menzinger Sébastien
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

Epidermal multinucleated keratinocytes, or epidermal grape cells, in the absence of any viral infection, are an important histological finding and a clue for the diagnosis of dermatoses induced by external irritation or aggression, dermatitis artefacta, and facticial dermatitis. Thermal damage such as cryogenic injury is part of the spectrum of causes to be evoked in case of their presence.