bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Row Ratio and Planting Methods on Growth, Water Use Efficiency, Yield and Economics of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and Mentha (Mentha arvensis L.)
Authors: Kumar Awanish , Kumar Sarvesh , Kumar Pradeep , Yadav Sanjay , Singh Utkarsh , Prajapati Sunil Kumar
Published: June 2023

This study examines the intercropping system of wheat and mentha involves the simultaneous cultivation of two or more crops on the same piece of land for higher land productivity.  Japanese mint, a member of the Lamiaceae family, has a potent essential oil. Oil extracted from the leaves for use in aromatherapy, food flavouring, and medicine. Hence, a field experiment was conducted to study the effect of Row ratio and Planting methods on Growth, Yield Performance of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and Mentha (Mentha arvensis L.) was conducted during 2016-17 at the Soil Conservation and Water Management Farm to investigate the response of mentha when intercropped with wheat under various row ratio and planting methods. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replication keeping one variety of Mentha ‘Shivalik’& Wheat ‘Unnat Halna’. The experiment consisting of nine treatments are T1: Sole Mentha direct sowing (50cm apart), T2: Sole Mentha transplanting (50cm apart), T3: Sole Wheat (25cm apart), T4: Wheat+Mentha (d, 1:1), T5: Wheat+Mentha (t, 1:1), T6:Wheat+Mentha (d, 2:2), T7:Wheat+Mentha (t, 2:2), T8: Wheat Paired+Mentha (d, 2:3), T9: Wheat Paired+Mentha (t, 2:3). The results indicated that Sole Wheat (T3) had the highest plant population (662.40 initially, 326 final), plant height (83.80 cm), and grain yield (39.80 q/ha) for wheat. In the case of mentha, Wheat Paired+Mentha (T8) exhibited the maximum final plant population (119.43), plant height (72.51 at maturity), and equivalent oil yield (189.05 l/ha). Wheat Paired+Mentha (T8) also recorded the highest total water use (647 mm), water use efficiency (0.292 kg/ha/mm of water), land equivalent ratio (1.50), and economic parameters such as gross return (228,868), net return (160,828), and B:C ratio (3.36). The maximum oil yield (163.35 l/ha) was found in Sole Mentha direct sowing (T1).
Development and Application of Speed Breeding Technologies in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.): An Advance Approach
Authors: Pawar Pratiksha , Talekar Nilesh , Kumar Ashutosh , Salunkhe Harshraj
Published: June 2023

Traditional breeding methods for groundnut have been time-consuming, often taking several years to develop improved varieties. However, recent developments in speed breeding technologies have revolutionized the breeding process, significantly reducing the breeding cycle duration and accelerating genetic gain. This review presents an overview of the key principles and methodologies involved in speed breeding, including the manipulation of light, temperature, and photoperiod conditions to promote rapid growth and development. The application of controlled environments, such as growth chambers and specialized greenhouse setups, enables researchers to simulate ideal conditions for groundnut growth, resulting in shortened generation intervals and increased breeding cycles. Furthermore, the review highlights the various genetic and genomic tools employed in speed breeding, such as marker-assisted selection (MAS), genomic selection (GS), and high-throughput genotyping technologies. One promising avenue is the integration of Speed Breeding (SB) with genome editing techniques, such as the widely used CRISPR/Cas9 system. Genome editing enables precise modifications of specific genes, leading to the development of plants with desired traits. These tools aid in the identification and selection of desirable traits, enabling breeders to efficiently incorporate traits related to yield, disease resistance, drought tolerance, and nutritional quality. The adoption of speed breeding techniques in groundnut breeding programs has shown promising results in terms of accelerated varietal development and increased genetic gain. The review also discusses the potential applications and future prospects of speed breeding in groundnut, including the integration of omics technologies, gene editing techniques, and the development of pre-breeding populations. These advancements hold significant promise for groundnut improvement and have the potential to address the challenges posed by climate change and food security.
Urogenital Schistosomiasis in Likomba Community, Fako Division, South West Region, Cameroon
Authors: Longdoh Njunda Anna , Mbenchang Makia Claudia
Published: June 2023

Background: Urogenital Schistosomasis (US) is the second most neglected tropical disease to malaria. It is estimated that about 600-700 million people Worldwide are at risk of contracting this disease. In Cameroon more than 5million people are at the risk of infection. Clinical manifestations of US include haematuria, dysuria, lower abdominal pain and bladder cancer. Praziquantel is the drug of choice.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of Urogenital Schistosomiais in Likomba community in Fako Division.

Methods: A community based cross- sectional study was carried out from February till March 2020. A structured questionnaire was administered to 363 participants through a convenient sampling technique. We obtained information on socio-demographic data, clinical history of the participants, knowledge of the disease and other risk factors associated with Urogenital Schistosomiasis. Urine samples were collected to detect Schistosoma haematobium eggs using the centrifugation technique. Data was collected and analyzed using statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 24.

Results: Out of the 363 participants a total of 101 tested positive to Schistosoma haematobium infection having and overall prevalence of 27.8%. The most infected age group ranged from 5 - 13 years which had a prevalence of 49.5% while the least infected age group found within ≥ 47 years had a prevalence of 9.9%. The prevalence of US in females was 63.4% which was higher than that of males 36.6%, this difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05).The risk factors associated with US included; the availability of tap water (P<0.05), the source of drinking (P<0.05), number of times they go the stream (Ndongo) (P<0.005) and various sites of taking their bath (P>0.05).

Conclusion: This study revealed that US is still very prevalent among the inhabitants of Likomba  community, therefore there is a need for the government and community health workers to re-inforce health education, ensure the provision of adequate pipe born water and  campaign strategies which will educate and significantly help reduce the prevalence of the disease in this area.
One-Year Clinical Evaluation of Four Desensitizing Agents in the Management of Cervical Dentin Hypersensitivity: A Randomized, Prospective, Blinded Clinical Trial
Authors: Mertz Tuane , Cardoso Poliana Maria de Faveri , Ueda Julio Katuhide , Busato Mauro Carlos Agner , Mendonça Márcio José , Camilotti Veridiana
Published: June 2023

Objective: The objective of this randomized, prospective, and blinded clinical study was to evaluate the efficacy of four desensitizing agents in the long-term treatment of cervical dentin hypersensitivity (HD) and their impact on the quality of life of the research volunteers.

Materials and Methods: A total of 116 teeth were randomized and divided into 4 groups (n=29 teeth) according to the applied treatment: GD - Gluma Desensitizer; CV - Clinpro White Varnish; SB - Single Bond; AS - AdheSE. Sensitivity levels were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) immediately after the application of each material, and at 7, 30, 60, and 360 days post-treatment. The patients completed a quality of life questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Kruskall Wallis test with the Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner post-test were used for intergroup evaluation (p<0.05).

Results: In the intragroup comparison, there was a statistically significant decrease (p<0.05) in sensitivity from the initial period for the GD, CV, and AS groups. There was an improvement in the patients' quality of life.

Conclusion: This clinical study demonstrated the effectiveness of the desensitizing agents in the long-term treatment of cervical dentin hypersensitivity, with the exception of SB. Clinical relevance: HD is a clinical condition that directly affects patients' quality of life. This study revealed three effective desensitizing agents for a prolonged period.
Heat and Mass Transfer in MHD Flow about an Inclined Porous Plate
Authors: Onyinkwa Linah Mogirango , Chepkwony Isaac
Published: June 2023

In this study, we explore how mass and heat are transferred in magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) flow. MHD has several applications in Power Generation, Magnetohydrodynamic Pumps, Plasma and Fusion Research, Spacecraft Propulsion, Metal Casting and Materials Processing, Geophysics and Planetary Science. Our focus is on understanding the flow over an inclined plate positioned near a semi-infinite porous plate. To tackle this problem, we combine the laws of electromagnetism with the Navier-Stokes equations to develop a comprehensive MHD flow model. To analyse the behaviour of the flow, we transform the governing equations into a simpler, dimensionless form. Employing the Implicit finite centre difference, we obtain the numerical solutions for the equations. These solutions allow us to visualize the results through graphical representations. Our investigation delves into the effects of various parameters on the flow characteristics. Specifically, we examine the influence of the porosity parameter, magnetic strength parameter, and inclination angle. As we analyse these factors, we observe interesting trends. The velocity profiles in all directions exhibit a decreasing trend as porosity, magnetic field strength, and inclination angle increase. On the other hand, as the porosity, magnetic field strength, and surface inclination angle increase, we observe a notable augmentation in the temperature profiles.
Responding to the Call to Meaningfully Assess Institutional Review Board Effectiveness
Authors: Fernandez Lynch Holly , Hurley Elisa A. , Taylor Holly A.
Published: June 2023

This Viewpoint discusses the difficult task of creating a stakeholder-driven, evidence-based approach to assessing institutional review board effectiveness beyond regulatory compliance.
Bempedoic Acid for Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Events in Statin-Intolerant Patients
Authors: Nissen Steven E. , Menon Venu , Nicholls Stephen J. , Brennan Danielle , Laffin Luke , Ridker Paul , Ray Kausik K. , Mason Denise , Kastelein John J. P. , Cho Leslie , Libby Peter , Li Na , Foody JoAnne , Louie Michael J. , Lincoff A. Michael
Published: June 2023

Importance

The effects of bempedoic acid on cardiovascular outcomes in statin-intolerant patients without a prior cardiovascular event (primary prevention) have not been fully described.

Objective

To determine the effects of bempedoic acid on cardiovascular outcomes in primary prevention patients.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This masked, randomized clinical trial enrolled 13 970 statin-intolerant patients (enrollment December 2016 to August 2019 at 1250 centers in 32 countries), including 4206 primary prevention patients.

Interventions

Participants were randomized to oral bempedoic acid, 180 mg daily (n = 2100), or matching placebo (n = 2106).

Main Outcome Measures

The primary efficacy measure was the time from randomization to the first occurrence of any component of a composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), nonfatal stroke, or coronary revascularization.

Results

Mean participant age was 68 years, 59% were female, and 66% had diabetes. From a mean baseline of 142.2 mg/dL, compared with placebo, bempedoic acid reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by 30.2 mg/dL (21.3%) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels by 0.56 mg/L (21.5%), from a median baseline of 2.4 mg/L. Follow-up for a median of 39.9 months was associated with a significant risk reduction for the primary end point (111 events [5.3%] vs 161 events [7.6%]; adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.70 [95% CI, 0.55-0.89]; P = .002) and key secondary end points, including the composite of cardiovascular death, MI, or stroke (83 events [4.0%] vs 134 events [6.4%]; HR, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.48-0.84]; P < .001); MI (29 events [1.4%] vs 47 events [2.2%]; HR, 0.61 [95% CI, 0.39-0.98]); cardiovascular death (37 events [1.8%] vs 65 events [3.1%]; HR, 0.61 [95% CI, 0.41-0.92]); and all-cause mortality (75 events [3.6%] vs 109 events [5.2%]; HR, 0.73 [95% CI, 0.54-0.98]). There was no significant effect on stroke or coronary revascularization. Adverse effects with bempedoic acid included a higher incidence of gout (2.6% vs 2.0%), cholelithiasis (2.5% vs 1.1%), and increases in serum creatinine, uric acid, and hepatic enzyme levels.

Conclusions

In a subgroup of high-risk primary prevention patients, bempedoic acid treatment was associated with reduced major cardiovascular events.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02993406
Association Between New 340B Program Participation and Commercial Insurance Spending on Outpatient Biologic Oncology Drugs
Authors: Chang Jessica , Karaca-Mandic Pinar , Nikpay Sayeh , Jeffery Molly Moore
Published: June 2023

Importance

Previous studies have found that hospitals participating in the 340B Drug Pricing Program have higher Medicare Part B spending and expansion into affluent neighborhoods. Less is known about the association of 340B participation with spending by commercial insurance, where reimbursements are higher than Medicare.

Objective

To use the Affordable Care Act expansion of eligibility for the 340B Drug Pricing Program to study the association between participation and spending on outpatient-administered oncological drugs for commercially insured patients.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study included a balanced panel hospital cohort containing new and never 340B program participants between 2007 and 2019; more recent data were not included to avoid the effect of disruptions in care due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Descriptive analyses documented spending trends for patients receiving common outpatient-administered biologics used in cancer treatments (bevacizumab, filgrastim, pegfilgrastim, rituximab, and trastuzumab) at 340B (treated) and non-340B (control) hospitals. A difference-in-differences model assessed changes in episode drug spending. Analyses were conducted between December 2021 and June 2022.

Exposure

New 340B program participation between 2010 and 2016.

Main Outcome and Measures

Total drug episode spending, with control variables including total billed units, drug, calendar-year fixed effects, and hospital fixed effects.

Results

Of 95 127 included episodes (56 917 [59.8%] episodes in female patients) across 478 hospitals, patients seen in 340B and non-340B hospitals were similar in sex and drug used, and 340B hospital patients were older than non-340B patients (median [IQR] age for all patients, 61 [51-71] years). New 340B participating hospitals were more likely to be small (<50 beds) and more likely to be in rural settings. In the difference-in-differences analysis, total episode drug spending increased by $4074.69 (95% CI, $1592.84-$6556.70; P = .001) in the year following start of 340B program participation relative to nonparticipants. Heterogeneous group time effects were seen, with earlier participants less likely to have increased episode spending.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, new 340B participation was associated with statistically significant higher oncological drug episode spending compared with nonparticipants after changes in 340B inclusion rules in 2010. These findings raise questions about unintended consequences of the 340B program on drug spending from the commercially insured population.
Financial Characteristics of Nonprofit Social Welfare Organizations in the US Health Care System
Authors: Plummer Elizabeth , Letchuman Sunjay , Fang Shunlan , Bai Ge
Published: June 2023

This cross-sectional study examines the purpose, revenues, profitability, and lobbying expenses of social welfare organizations in the US health care system.
A National Study Exploring the Association Between Fluoride Levels and Dental Fluorosis
Authors: Hung Man , Hon Eric S. , Mohajeri Amir , Moparthi Hyma , Vu Teresa , Jeon Jason , Lipsky Martin S.
Published: June 2023

Importance

While the effects of fluoride on health have been widely researched, fewer high-quality studies examine the association of fluoride levels in water and dental fluorosis.

Objective

To investigate the association between fluoride exposure from drinking water and dental fluorosis.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study used the 2013-2014 and 2015-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data (January 1, 2013, through December 31, 2016). NHANES uses a complex sampling technique to develop nationally representative sample estimates of the US population that consists of interviews and physical assessments. Children and adolescents aged 6 to 15 years were included because NHANES contains their data for all 3 forms of fluoride measures: plasma fluoride levels, water levels of fluoride, and dietary fluoride supplementation. Data were analyzed from January 1 to April 30, 2023.

Exposures

Water and plasma fluoride levels were measured by laboratory personnel. Dietary fluoride supplement data were self-reported.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The Dean’s Fluorosis Index was used to evaluate fluorosis status for each tooth. The dental fluorosis severity value was based on the second most affected tooth. Independent variables included plasma and water fluoride concentrations and dietary fluoride supplementation. An independent samples t test was used to compare fluoride exposures between groups, and Pearson correlation assessed the association between plasma and water fluoride levels. To assess whether fluoride exposures were associated with dental fluorosis, logistic regression analyses were conducted.

Results

There were 1543 participants in the 2013-2014 NHANES cycle (weighted proportion male, 51.9%; mean [SD] age, 11.0 [2.7] years) and 1452 in the 2015-2016 cycle (weighted proportion male, 52.6%; mean [SD] age, 11.1 [2.8] years). A weighted 87.3% exhibited some degree of fluorosis in the 2013-2014 cycle and 68.2% in the 2015-2016 cycle. After adjusting for covariates in the 2015-2016 cycle, both higher water and plasma fluoride concentrations were associated with higher odds of dental fluorosis: adjusted odds ratios [AORs], 2.378 (95% CI, 1.218-5.345]) for water fluoride and 1.568 (95% CI, 1.038-2.499) for plasma fluoride. Fluoride supplements were not significantly associated with dental fluorosis: AOR, 0.741 (95% CI, 0.367-1.408).

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cross-sectional study suggest that exposure to higher concentrations of fluoride in water and having higher plasma levels of fluoride were associated with a greater risk of dental fluorosis. Further research can help policy makers develop policies that balance substantial caries prevention with the risk of dental fluorosis.
Sentiment Analysis of Social Media Users’ Emotional Response to Sudden Cardiac Arrest During a Football Broadcast
Authors: Fijačko Nino , Greif Robert , Štiglic Gregor , Kocbek Primož , Abella Benjamin S.
Published: June 2023

This case series analyzes social media users’ sentiments after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation of Damar Hamlin following his sudden cardiac arrest on national television.
Postoperative Complications and Reoperative Surgery in the Treatment of Patients With Zenker Diverticulum
Authors: Uoti Sandra , Nurminen Nelli , Andersson Saana , Egan Caitlin , Tapiovaara Laura , Kytö Ville , Ilonen Ilkka
Published: June 2023

Importance

The association of the surgical approach, surgical specialty, and other factors with the outcomes of surgical treatment of Zenker diverticulum (ZD) have been debated in the literature.

Objectives

To explore the outcomes of 3 different surgical methods used in the management of ZD and determine the associations between patient characteristics, such as preoperative comorbidities and treatment outcomes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective, population-based cohort study examined patient records of patients who underwent surgical treatment for ZD from the Care Register for Healthcare database in Finland between January 1996 and December 2015. Data review and analysis were completed in 2021.

Exposure

Surgical treatment for ZD.

Main Outcome and Measures

Complications of surgical procedures used in the management of ZD.

Results

In this study, 1044 patients (median [IQR] age, 70.0 [22.0-98.0] years; 416 female individuals [39.8%]) surgically treated for ZD were identified. Most patients (606 [58.0%]) had no preoperative comorbidities. A total of 67 (6.4%) complications were recorded, with a mortality rate of 0.9%. The likelihood of complications was associated with patient age (t [1042] = 2.28; Cohen d, 0.29; 95%, CI 0.04, 0.54), surgical approach (Cramer V = 0.14 [95% CI 0.07-0.21]), and surgical specialty (Cramer V, 0.16; 95% CI, 0.06-0.28). The median (IQR) length of stay in association with the primary surgical intervention was 3.0 (0-85.0) days. Length of stay was associated with patient age (Cramer V, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.06-0.25), especially in patients older than 90 years, surgical approach (F [2, 466.2] = 26.9; ηp2 = 0.08; 95% CI, 0.05-0.11), and surgical specialty (F [4, 22.1] = 11.0; ηp2 = 0.07; 95% CI, 0.04-0.10). Reoperation was associated with the initial surgical approach (Cramer V, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.12-0.23) and surgical specialty (Cramer V, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.09-0.21).

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this cohort study suggest that the outcomes of surgical management depended on the surgical approach, surgical specialty, and patient age. Overall, surgical treatment may be considered safe and may be considered for all patients with symptomatic ZD.
Association of Influenza Vaccination With Risk of Bell Palsy Among Older Adults in Taiwan
Authors: Hu Chin , Wei Kai-Che , Wang Wen-Hwa , Chang Yu-Chia , Huang Yu-Tung
Published: June 2023

Importance

Annual administration of the influenza vaccine (fluVc) is currently the most effective method of preventing the influenza virus in older adults. However, half of adults older than 65 years remain unvaccinated in Taiwan, possibly because of concern about adverse events, such as Bell palsy (BP). Currently, studies on the association between fluVc and risk of BP are inconsistent.

Objective

To determine whether the incidence of BP increases following fluVc in older adults.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A self-controlled case series study design was used. Days 1 through 7, days 8 through 14, days 15 through 30, and days 31 through 60 following fluVc were identified as risk intervals, and days 61 through 180 were considered the control interval. A total of 4367 vaccinated individuals aged 65 years or older who developed BP within 6 months following fluVc were enrolled. Population-based retrospective claims data were obtained between 2010 and 2017; data were analyzed from April 2022 through September 2022.

Exposure

Government-funded seasonal fluVc.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The outcome of interest was BP onset in risk intervals compared with control intervals. Three or more consecutive diagnoses of BP within 60 days following fluVc were used as the definition of a patient with BP. Poisson regression was used to analyze the incidence rate ratio (IRR) of risk intervals compared with control intervals.

Results

In total, 13 261 521 patients who received the fluVc were extracted from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2017. Of those, 7 581 205 patients older than 65 years old met the inclusion criteria. The number of patients with BP diagnosed within 6 months following fluVc enrolled for risk analysis was 4367 (mean [SD] age, 74.19 [5.97] years; 2349 [53.79%] female patients). The incidence rate of BP among all observed fluVc older adults was 57.87 per 100 000 person-years. The IRRs for BP on days 1 through 7, days 8 through 14, and days 15 through 30 were 4.18 (95% CI, 3.82-4.59), 2.73 (95% CI, 2.45-3.05), and 1.67 (95% CI, 1.52-1.84), respectively. However, there was no increase during days 31 through 60 (IRR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.97-1.16). The postvaccination risk of BP was consistent across all subgroups stratified by sex, age group, and baseline conditions.

Conclusions and Relevance

The present self-controlled case series indicated that the risk of BP in individuals older than 65 years increased within the first month, especially within the first week, following fluVc. But overall, the adverse event rate of BP was low, and considering the morbidity and mortality of influenza infection, the benefits of fluVc still outweigh the risks.
The use of image synthesis techniques in target and roi delineation in the upright position
Authors: Schreuder Andries Niek , Paragios Nikos , Kissick Michael , Lis Michelle , Underwood Tracy S. A. , Mackie Rockwell
Published: June 2023

The use of multi‐modality imaging technologies such as CT, MRI, and PET imaging is state of the art for radiation therapy treatment planning. Except for a limited number of low magnetic field MR scanners the majority of such imaging technologies can only image the patient in a recumbent position. Delivering radiation therapy treatments with the patient in an upright orientation has many benefits and several companies are now developing upright patient positioners combined with upright diagnostic helical CT scanners to facilitate upright radiation therapy treatments. Due to the directional changes in the gravitational forces on the patient's body, most structures and organs will change position and shape between the recumbent and upright positions. Detailed knowledge about such structures and organs are therefore often only available in the recumbent position. The problem statement is therefore well defined, that is, how do we know where such structures and organs, that is, the target or region at risk volumes, are in the upright position if those cannot be identified and or delineated accurately enough using the upright diagnostic quality CT images only? This paper outlines two methods based on synthetic CT or MR images to overcome this problem.
Hierarchical Integrated Hybrid Structural Electrodes Based on Co‐N/C and Mo‐doped NiCo‐LDH@Co‐N/C Anchored on MX/CF for High Energy Density Fiber‐Shaped Supercapacitor
Authors: Khumujam Debarani Devi , Kshetri Tolendra , Singh Thangjam Ibomcha , Kim Nam Hoon , Lee Joong Hee
Published: June 2023

The judicious design of highly electrochemically active materials on 1D fiber substrate to form a hierarchical integrated hybrid structure is an efficient technique to improve the limited cylindrical space and volumetric energy density of fiber‐shaped supercapacitors (FSCs). Herein, a 3D negative electrode, consisting of vertically aligned interconnected mesoporous Co‐N/C leaf‐like structure on 1D MXene‐carbon fiber (Co‐N/C@MX/CF) is prepared by controlling the composition and morphology. At the same time, a 3D positive electrode is also prepared by introducing Mo in NiCo‐LDH anchored on Co‐N/C@MX/CF (Mo‐NiCo‐LDH@Co‐N/C@MX/CF) by electrodeposition method. Benefitting from the systematic hierarchical structures with highly accessible surface area, adequate pore size and easy permeation of electrolyte, both positive and negative electrodes demonstrate highly improved electrochemical performance with areal capacity/capacitance of 0.96 mAh cm−2/4.55 mF cm−2 at a current density of 3.86 mA cm−2, respectively. Furthermore, the fiber‐shaped solid‐state hybrid supercapacitor (FSHSC) based on Mo1.5NiCo‐LDH@Co‐N/C@MX/CF(+)//Co‐N/C0.5@MX/CF(−) is fabricated, exhibiting compelling energy density of 86.72 mWh cm−3 at a power density of 480.30 mW cm−3 with an outstanding capacitance retention of 80.2% after 20000 galvanostatic‐charge‐discharge cycles. This study puts forward a new perspective on the development of highly efficient FSCs for practical application.
Understanding the Photothermal and Photocatalytic Mechanism of Polydopamine Coated Gold Nanorods
Authors: Aguilar‐Ferrer Daniel , Vasileiadis Thomas , Iatsunskyi Igor , Ziółek Marcin , Żebrowska Klaudia , Ivashchenko Olena , Błaszkiewicz Paulina , Grześkowiak Bartosz , Pazos Raquel , Moya Sergio , Bechelany Mikhael , Coy Emerson
Published: June 2023

Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPRs) shown by gold nanorods (AuNRs) has several applications in photocatalysis, sensing, and biomedicine. The combination of AuNRs with Polydopamine (PDA) shells results in a strong photo‐thermal effect, making them appealing nanomaterials for biomedical applications. However, the precise roles and relative contributions of plasmonic effects in gold, and light‐to‐heat conversion in PDA are still debated. Herein, a hybrid nanoplatform made by an AuNR core surrounded by a polydopamine (PDA) shell is synthesized, and its photocatalytic behavior is studied. Synthesis is based on a seed‐mediated growth followed by the further self‐polymerization of dopamine hydrochloride (DA) on the surface of the AuNRs, and the effect of the thickness of the PDA shell on the plasmon response of the composite is the main examined parameter. Photocatalytic performance is tested toward Rhodamine 6G (Rh6G), with the nanocomposites achieving better performance than bare AuNRs and bare PDA nanoparticles. The degradation of 54% of Rh6G initial concentration is achieved within 60 min of irradiation with a catalyst concentration of 7.4 µg mL−1. Photodegradation kinetics, time‐resolved spectroscopy, and finite‐element‐method simulations of plasmons show that AuNRs plasmons, coupled with the low thermal conductivity of PDA, provide slow thermalization, while enhancing the charge carrier transfer.
Conventional Non‐Fluorescent Polymers: Unconventional Security Inks for Data Storage and Multidimensional Photonic Cryptography
Authors: Ling Yao , Liu Jie , Dong Yu , Chen Yuanyuan , Chen Jiamao , Yu Xiaolan , Liang Baoshuai , Zhang Xiaocheng , An Wei , Wang Donghui , Feng Shiyu , Huang Weiguo
Published: June 2023

Traditional security inks relying on fluorescent/phosphorescent molecules are facing increasing risks of forgery or tampering due to their simple readout scheme (i.e., UV‐light irradiation) and the advancement of counterfeiting technologies. In this work, a multidimensional data‐encryption method based on non‐fluorescent polymers via a “lock–key” mechanism is developed. The non‐fluorescent invisible polymer inks serve as the “lock” for data‐encryption, while the anti‐rigidochromic fluorophores that can distinctively light up the polymer inks with programed emissions are “keys” for decryption. The emission of decrypted data is prescribed by polymer chemical structure, molecular weight, topology, copolymer sequence, and phase structure, and shows distinct intensity, wavelength, and chirality compared with the intrinsic emission of fluorophores. Therefore, the data is triply encrypted and naturally gains a high‐security level, e.g., only one out of 20 000 keys can access the only correct readout from 40 000 000 possible outputs in a three‐polymers‐based data‐encryption matrix. Note that fluorophores lacking anti‐rigidochrimism cannot selectively light up the inks and fail in data‐decryption. Further, the diverse topologies, less well‐defined structures, and random‐coiled shapes of polymers make it impossible for them to be imitated. This work offers a new design for security inks and boosts data security levels beyond the reach of conventional fluorescent inks.
Dual‐Site W‐O‐CoP Catalysts for Active and Selective Nitrate Conversion to Ammonia in a Broad Concentration Window
Authors: Chang Ziwei , Meng Ge , Chen Yafeng , Chen Chang , Han Shuhe , Wu Ping , Zhu Libo , Tian Han , Kong Fantao , Wang Min , Cui Xiangzhi , Shi Jianlin
Published: June 2023

Environmentally friendly electrochemical reduction of contaminated nitrate to ammonia (NO3−RR) is a promising solution for large quantity ammonia (NH3) production, which, however, is a complex multi‐reaction process involving coordination between different reaction intermediates of nitrate reduction and water decomposition‐provided active hydrogen (Hads) species. Here, a dual‐site catalyst of [W‐O] group‐doped CoP nanosheets (0.6W‐O‐CoP@NF) has been designed to synergistically catalyze the NO3−RR and water decomposition, especially the reactions between the intermediates of NO3−RR and water decomposition‐provided Hadsspecies. This catalytic NO3−RR exhibits an extremely high NH3yield of 80.92 mg h−1cm−2and a Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 95.2% in 1 mKOH containing 0.1 mNO3−. Significantly, 0.6W‐O‐CoP@NF presents greatly enhanced NH3yield and FE in a wide NO3−concentration ranges of 0.001–0.1 mcompared to the reported. The excellent NO3−RR performance is attributed to a synergistic catalytic effect between [W‐O] and CoP active sites, in which the doped [W‐O] group promotes the water decomposition to supply abundant Hads, and meanwhile modulates the electronic structure of Co for strengthened adsorption of Hadsand the hydrogen (H2) release prevention, resultantly facilitating the NO3−RR. Finally, a Zn‐NO3−battery has been assembled to simultaneously achieve three functions: electricity output, ammonia production, and nitrate treatment in wastewater.
Plasmonic Nanotags for On‐Dose Authentication of Medical Tablets
Authors: Fukuoka Takao , Yasunaga Toshiya , Namura Kyoko , Suzuki Motofumi , Yamaguchi Akinobu
Published: June 2023

Plasmonic nanomaterials have attracted much attention to new anticounterfeiting technology. Since one of current anticounterfeiting problems is fake medical tablets, on‐dose authentication of the tablets is strongly required considering tiny area of tablets, biocompatibility, and long shelf life. Previously, Nanotags consisting of self‐assemblies of colloidal gold nanoparticles with reporter molecules were proposed, which produce characteristic surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activity. However, long‐term stability is rarely discussed for SERS active nanostructures. This study deposits about 10 ng of the Nanotags on a very tiny area of the commercial tablets. Distinguishable SERS signals of reporting molecules are confirmed by 1s irradiation of 785 nm laser over the Nanotags, while Raman spectrum of the ingredients is observed on the tablet without the Nanotags. Rapid authentication of tablets stocked over 8 years is sufficiently carried out. In addition, the Nanotags on the tablets are almost invisible to the eye, in particular, if the tablet surface is uneven or colored. It is considered that the presence of discrete AuNP assemblies allows excellent performances of Nanotag.
Roll‐To‐Roll Fabricating MXene Membranes with Ordered Interlayer Distances For Molecule And Ion Separation
Authors: Li He , Liu Huiquan , Shi Changrui , Qin Jiawen , Fu Yixuan , Song Yongchen , Li Yanghui , Ling Zheng
Published: June 2023

Application‐oriented assembly of two‐dimensional nanosheets with uniform nanochannels is critical for fabricating sophisticated, high‐performance membranes for water treatment. However, fabricating the desired membranes by a simple, fast, and effective method is a challenge as most of the previous methods are based on batch processes rather than a continuous roll‐to‐roll process. Here, a simple Meyer rod‐coating approach to continuously fabricate large‐size and flat MXene membranes at a scale up to 5 m is introduced. This study demonstrated that a high MXene concentration, above 10 mg mL−1, is critical in processability due to the desired viscosity, surface tension, and viscoelastic properties. The as‐made MXene membranes show that shearing and solutal‐Marangoni flow can considerably improve the ordering of the stacked MXene nanoflakes. Thus, the rod‐coated MXene membranes demonstrate a smaller surface roughness and interlayer distance compared to the MXene membranes fabricated by the most commonly vacuum‐assisted filtration. The rod‐costed MXene membranes show superior performance in dye and mono/divalent cation separation. The proposed roll‐to‐roll Meyer rod‐coating method can also be used to fabricate MXene‐based composites, such as MXene/carbon nanotubes and MXene/polymer, using the inks containing high concentration MXene and other desired compositions. This roll‐to‐roll method will promote an industry‐level fabrication and application of MXene‐based membranes.
Continuous Synthesis of Epoxides from Alkenes by Hydrogen Peroxide with Titanium Silicalite‐1 Catalyst Using Flow Reactors
Authors: Kon Yoshihiro , Nakashima Takuya , Makino Yoshiki , Nagashima Hiroki , Onozawa Shun‐ya , Kobayashi Shū , Sato Kazuhiko
Published: June 2023

Abstract. Continuous‐flow epoxidation of aliphatic and aromatic alkenes with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was carried out to give epoxides using a fixed‐bed liquid flow reactor equipped with a solid titanium silicalite‐1 (TS‐1) catalyst column. The developed flow reaction enables continuous synthesis of 4‐phenyl‐1,2‐epoxybutane from 4‐phenyl‐1‐butene in 90%–98% yields (22.4 g) for 150 h from a catalyst column of 5 mm inner diameter with 100 mm length. Employment of a mixed solution of MeCN and MeOH with preservation of the Ti active site in TS‐1 crystal structures with few defects permits continuous epoxidation of less‐reactive long‐chain terminal alkene and multifunctional alkene to give epoxides in 12%–98% yields with 78%–99% selectivity.
FGF19‐Induced Inflammatory CAF Promoted Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Formation in the Liver Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Li Chen , Chen Tianli , Liu Jialiang , Wang Yue , Zhang Chunhuan , Guo Lu , Shi Dandan , Zhang Tingguo , Wang Xishan , Li Jie
Published: June 2023

Liver metastasis is the main cause of death in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC); thus, necessitating effective biomarkers and therapeutic targets for colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM). Fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) is a protumorigenic gene in numerous human malignancies. In this study, it is shown that FGF19 plays an indispensable role in CRLM. FGF19 expression and secretion are markedly correlated with liver metastasis and lower overall survival rates of patients with CRC. An in vivo metastasis model shows that FGF19 overexpression confers stronger liver‐metastatic potential in CRC cells. Mechanistically, FGF19 exerts an immunomodulatory function that creates an environment conducive for metastasis in CRLM. FGF19 mediates the polarization of hepatic stellate cells to inflammatory cancer‐associated fibroblasts (iCAFs) by activating the autocrine effect of IL‐1α via the FGFR4‐JAK2‐STAT3 pathway. FGF19‐induced iCAFs promote neutrophil infiltration and mediate neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation in liver metastatic niches via the production of complement C5a and IL‐1β, which in turn accelerates the liver colonization of CRC cells. Importantly, targeting FGF19 signaling with fisogatinib efficiently suppresses FGF19‐induced liver metastasis in a mouse model. In summary, this study describes the mechanism by which FGF19 regulates CRLM, thereby providing a novel target for CRLM intervention.
A General and Efficient Strategy for Gene Delivery Based on Tea Polyphenols Intercalation and Self‐Polymerization
Authors: Chen Hao , Guo Lina , Ding Jinsong , Zhou Wenhu , Qi Yan
Published: June 2023

Gene therapy that employs therapeutic nucleic acids to modulate gene expression has shown great promise for diseases therapy, and its clinical application relies on the development of effective gene vector. Herein a novel gene delivery strategy by just using natural polyphenol (‐)‐epigallocatechin‐3‐O‐gallate (EGCG) as raw material is reported. EGCG first intercalates into nucleic acids to yield a complex, which then oxidizes and self‐polymerizes to form tea polyphenols nanoparticles (TPNs) for effective nucleic acids encapsulation. This is a general method to load any types of nucleic acids with single or double strands and short or long sequences. Such TPNs‐based vector achieves comparable gene loading capacity to commonly used cationic materials, but showing lower cytotoxicity. TPNs can effectively penetrate inside cells, escape from endo/lysosomes, and release nucleic acids in response to intracellular glutathione to exert biological functions. To demonstrate the in vivo application, an anti‐caspase‐3 small interfering ribonucleic acid is loaded into TPNs to treat concanavalin A‐induced acute hepatitis, and excellent therapeutic efficacy is obtained in combination with the intrinsic activities of TPNs vector. This work provides a simple, versatile, and cost‐effective gene delivery strategy. Given the biocompatibility and intrinsic biofunctions, this TPNs‐based gene vector holds great potential to treat various diseases.
The Emergence of 2D Building Units in Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution: A Case Study with COK‐47
Authors: Ayala Pablo , Naghdi Shaghayegh , Nandan Sreejith P. , Myakala Stephen Nagaraju , Rath Jakob , Saito Hikaru , Guggenberger Patrick , Lakhanlal Lakhanlal , Kleitz Freddy , Toroker Maytal Caspary , Cherevan Alexey , Eder Dominik
Published: June 2023

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising materials for photocatalytic water splitting reactions, but examples of visible light‐responsive, catalytically active, and stable MOFs are still rare. A detailed investigation is conducted for COK‐47 – a recently described MOF comprising 2D Ti‐O6 secondary building units (SBUs) – toward a photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), showing how overall particle morphology, surface area, and missing ligand defects are central parameters governing the material's ultimate performance. The newly synthesized COK‐47ISO is among the most active MOFs to date, yielding HER‐rates of 8.6 µmol h−1, and an apparent quantum yield (AQY) of 0.5% under visible light illumination. Optoelectronic and photoluminescence investigations, supported by theoretical calculations, enable the unraveling of its electronic structure along with charge transfer and recombination kinetics. A wavelength‐dependent reaction mechanism is proposed involving ligand to metal charge transfer (LMCT) and the main challenges for visible or UV photoexcitation are identified, demonstrating that the unique 2D layered structure aids charge separation and is key to the high performance. This work introduces COK‐47 as a promising alternative to the well‐known MIL‐125 family and offers directions for future studies
Probing the Multiexcitonic Dynamics in CsPbI3 Nanocrystals across the Temperature‐Induced Reversible Phase Transitions
Authors: Liu Siyu , Geng Huifang , Geng Huaxiu , Huang Zhuanzhuan , Deng Shibin , Shen Xi , Yu Richeng , Zheng Kaibo , Canton Sophie E. , Fu Xuewen
Published: June 2023

CsPbI3 nanocrystals (CPI NCs) have become a trending research topic due to their impressive potential in functional optoelectronic devices and optical gain applications. Their optical responses are governed by carrier dynamics, which is greatly influenced by temperature and corresponding phase structure due to the effects of inherently electron‐phonon coupling. Notably, CPI NCs have been identified to adopt an unexpectedly stable cubic phase from room temperature to liquid helium temperature. Here, using in situ cryogenic electron diffraction measurements, it is unambiguously demonstrated that CPI NCs undergo consecutive cubic‐tetragonal‐orthorhombic phase transitions from 298 to 100 K. The corresponding temperature‐dependent multiexcitonic dynamics are investigated in each phase by combining time‐resolved photoluminescence and transient absorption spectroscopy. In addition to the temperature dependency, the lifetime of both excitons and biexcitons evidently depends on the phase structures of the CPI NCs, highlighting the crucial effect of crystal structure on the carrier dynamics. Moreover, the biexciton binding energy increases with higher crystal symmetry due to the decrease of the dielectric constant. The findings shed light on the structural phase transition and its relationship to the carrier dynamics in all‐inorganic perovskite NCs, which provides critical insight into the structure‐performance relationship in CPI NCs for promising applications in optoelectronic devices.
Quantifying molecular surface barriers and intracrystalline diffusion in nanoporous materials by zero‐length column
Authors: Xie Yiwei , Li Hua , Lou Caiyi , Ye Mao , Liu Zhongmin
Published: June 2023

The zero‐length column (ZLC) method has been frequently used to measure the effective diffusivity of guest molecules in nanoporous crystalline materials. Recent studies unveiled that the mass transport of guest molecules could originate from either intracrystalline diffusion and/or surface barriers. Directly quantifying the intracrystalline diffusivity and surface permeability of guest molecules. therefore, is essential for understanding the mass transfer and thus optimizing the design of nanoporous crystalline materials. In this work, we extended the ZLC method, based on a derived theoretical expression of the desorption rate, to decouple the surface barriers and intracrystalline diffusion from effective diffusion of guest molecules in nanoporous materials. The diffusivities of ethane, propane and n‐pentane in SAPO‐34 and Beta zeolites have been experimentally measured to verify the effectiveness of this method.
Acoustic Manipulation of Particles in Microfluidic Chips with an Adaptive Controller that Models Acoustic Fields
Authors: Yiannacou Kyriacos , Sariola Veikko
Published: June 2023

Acoustic manipulation is a technique that uses sound waves to move particles, droplets, or cells. Closed‐loop control methods based on complex, time‐varying acoustic fields have been demonstrated, but usually require accurate models of the acoustic fields or many training experiments for successful manipulation. Herein, a new adaptive control method is proposed for the acoustic manipulation of single and multiple particles inside microfluidic chips. The method is based on online machine learning of the acoustic fields. Starting with no knowledge of the fields, the controller can manipulate particles even on the first attempt, and its performance improves in subsequent attempts, yet can still readapt if the models are invalidated by a sudden change in system parameters. The controller can generalize: it can use information learned from one task to improve its performance in other tasks. Despite the machine‐learning nature of the controller, the internal models of the controller have a physical interpretation and correspond to the experimentally observed acoustic fields. The online adaptiveness of the controller should make it easier to use in practical applications, such as particle and cell sorting, microassembly, labs‐on‐chips, and diagnostic devices, as the method does not require extensive training or prior models.