bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Rule of Law in the ‘New Regulatory State’
Authors: McDonald Leighton
Published: July 2004

This article examines the apparent mismatch between standard accounts of the rule of law and those contemporary modes of governance which are said to confound hierarchical understandings and emphasize ‘responsive’ techniques of regulation. It argues that rule of law ‘side-liners' and rule of law ‘hard-liners' have both tended to overstate and misunderstand the challenges presented to the ideal by contemporary regulatory environments. While the set of concerns underpinning the historical development of the rule of law ideal have not been shown to be irrelevant, the general thrust of many of the techniques of the so-called ‘new regulatory state’ do potentially threaten the idea that governance should be rendered calculable by reference to generally applicable rules or principles. This should have consequences for our rule of law theories. In particular, it is argued that viewing the rule of law through a ‘regulatory lens' raises significant questions about the importance to be attached to the guidance function of rules. It is suggested that calculable rules may plausibly be given a more differentiated and confined (though not unimportant) role in a wider notion of the rule of law.
International M&A and the Problem of the Effective Date under Chinese Law
Authors: Wolff Lutz-Christian
Published: July 2004

Where it is intended to sell business entities located in different jurisdictions as ‘a package’, it is important that the transfer of shares or other equity interests in the different target companies is effected at one and the same time. Problems can arise in this context if one of the target companies is located in mainland China. This article discusses these problems as well as practical solutions. It also demonstrates how important it is to consider structuring options at every stage of any cross-border investment project.
The Problem of Mistaken Identification: Some Observations on Process
Authors: Roberts Andrew
Published: July 2004

This article examines the importance of establishing a coherent system of safeguards against the risks of mistaken eyewitness identification. Memories of previously observed events are susceptible to distortion during encounters between a witness and other persons. It is argued that pre-trial procedures conducted under controlled conditions provide the most effective means of averting the risk of error and subsequent miscarriage of justice. However, these are of little value without a system of safeguards that (1) ensures that the procedures are conducted whenever the risk of error arises, (2) provides adequate regulation of what might occur before such procedures are conducted, and (3) ensures adherence to its prescriptions. These considerations provide the basis for a critical evaluation of some aspects of relevant procedure in England and Wales.
Murder as an Offence under English Law
Authors: Hirst Michael
Published: July 2004

This article examines the territorial and extra-territorial ambit of the offence of murder under English law. This is not strictly speaking a question concerning the jurisdiction of the courts, but one concerning the actus reus of the offence itself. Murder committed outside England and Wales cannot ordinarily amount to an offence under English law, but there are numerous exceptions to this general rule, which are noted and (in the case of the more significant exceptions) examined here.
Kappa Free Light Chains in Cerebrospinal Fluid as Markers of Intrathecal Immunoglobulin Synthesis
Authors: Fischer Christian , Arneth Borros , Koehler Jürgen , Lotz Johannes , Lackner Karl J
Published: July 2004

Background: Intrathecal immunoglobulin synthesis is observed in several inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system, but its detection by current laboratory tests is either tedious or relatively insensitive. We assessed the diagnostic accuracy of an assay for κ free light chains (κFLC) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum, and compared it with traditional tests for intrathecal immunoglobulin synthesis.

Methods: κFLCs were measured by nephelometry in CSF/serum pairs from 112 patients. Samples were excluded if blood contamination of CSF as a result of traumatic lumbar puncture (n = 12) or monoclonal bands in both CSF and serum (n = 5) were present. The remaining sample pairs were grouped according to the presence (n = 71) or absence (n = 24) of oligoclonal bands. Data were analyzed as κFLC concentrations in CSF, as κFLC CSF/serum ratios, and by use of the quotient diagram described previously for immunoglobulins.

Results: Both κFLC concentrations in CSF and the κFLC CSF/serum ratio identified patients with oligoclonal bands with high specificity and sensitivity. The areas under the ROC curves were 0.991 (95% confidence interval, 0.944–0.998) and 0.978 (0.924–0.996), respectively. Exclusion of patients with impaired blood–CSF barrier function further improved diagnostic accuracy. To account for patients with impaired blood–CSF barrier function, data were also analyzed in a quotient diagram. Only two patients without detectable oligoclonal bands would have been misclassified by this approach.

Conclusions: Our data indicate that the nephelometric assay for κFLCs in CSF reliably detects intrathecal immunoglobulin synthesis. This automated and quantitative method could simplify the diagnostic procedure for CSF analysis in the routine laboratory.
Validated Gas Chromatographic–Negative Ion Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometric Method for Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Sweat Patches
Authors: Saito Takeshi , Wtsadik Abraham , Scheidweiler Karl B , Fortner Neil , Takeichi Sanae , Huestis Marilyn A
Published: July 2004

Background: A sensitive gas chromatography–negative ion chemical ionization mass spectrometry (GC/MS-NICI) method was developed and validated for the measurement of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in human sweat patches.

Methods: THC-d0 and THC-d3 were added to worn blank sweat patches (PharmChek™; PharmChem Incorporated) and extracted with 3 mL of methanol–0.2 mol/L sodium acetate buffer (pH 5.0, 3:1 by volume) on a reciprocating shaker at ambient temperature for 30 min. Extracted solution (2 mL) was diluted with 8 mL of 0.1 mol/L sodium acetate buffer (pH 4.5) and extracted by use of solid-phase extraction columns (CleanScreen®; United Chemical Technologies). Dried extracts were derivatized with trifluoroacetic acid and analyzed with an Agilent 6890 gas chromatograph interfaced with an Agilent 5973 mass selective detector operated in NICI–selected ion-monitoring mode.

Results: The lower limits of detection and quantification for THC in human sweat were 0.2 and 0.4 ng/patch, respectively. The calibration curve was linear from 0.4 to 10 ng/patch (R2 >0.995). Overall recovery of THC from blank worn patches to which 0.6, 4.0, and 8.0 ng of THC had been added was 44–46%. Assay imprecision, expressed as CV, was <10% for 0.6, 4.0, and 8.0 ng/patch quality-control samples. Twenty-one potential interfering compounds (50 ng/patch) added to low quality-control samples (0.6 ng/patch) did not influence THC quantification.

Conclusions: This GC/MS-NICI assay for THC in human sweat provides adequate sensitivity and performance characteristics for analyzing THC in sweat patches and meets the requirements of the proposed Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration’s guidelines for sweat testing.
Induced hyperactivity in boar spermatozoa and its evaluation by computer-assisted sperm analysis
Authors: Schmidt Harald , Kamp Günter
Published: July 2004

Hyperactivity, a form of sperm motility characterized by vigorous flagellar movements, has been proposed as essential for fertilization in mammals. The objective of the present study was to establish a method for inducing hyperactivityin vitroin boar spermatozoa and to define threshold values to differentiate between hyperactive and non-hyperactive spermatozoa by computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) as a prerequisite for analyzing the energy metabolism during hyperactivity. In TALP-HEPES medium, non-frozen boar spermatozoa were stimulated to hyperactivity by 50 μmol l−1Ca2+within 15 min at 37 °C if 5 μmol l−1of the Ca2+ionophore A23187 was present. If 25% seminal plasma was present, boar spermatozoa required higher Ca2+concentrations (about 700 μmol l−1) for hyperactivity. Under both conditions, immobilization and head-to-head agglutination were low so that hyperactive spermatozoa could be analyzed for at least 40 min. The transition from normal to hyperactive movement was characterized by an increase in flagellar beat angle from 49° ± 12° to 200° ± 36° (n= 32) and a decrease in flagellar curvature ratio from 0.89 ± 0.04 to 0.47 ± 0.11 (n= 32). For quantification of hyperactive boar sperm, kinematic parameters of hyperactive and non-hyperactive spermatozoa were measured by CASA and statistically evaluated (receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis). The threshold values of the following four parameters were well suited for differentiating between hyperactive and non-hyperactive boar spermatozoa (ROC curve analysis: >50% specificity at 100% sensitivity). Hyperactive boar spermatozoa showed mean lateral head displacement >3.5 μm, curvilinear velocity >97 μm s−1, linearity <32% and wobble <71%. According to this multiparametric definition, induction of hyperactivity increased significantly (P< 0.0001) the fraction of hyperactive spermatozoa in semen samples from 5.1 ± 4.3% (n= 13) to 48.3 ± 6.6% (n= 7) in the absence and to 44.2 ± 7.6% (n= 10) in the presence of 25% seminal plasma, while the overall percentage of motile spermatozoa did not change significantly.
Seminal plasma regulates endometrial cytokine expression, leukocyte recruitment and embryo development in the pig
Authors: O'Leary S , Jasper M J , Warnes G M , Armstrong D T , Robertson S A
Published: July 2004

In pigs, uterine exposure to the constituents of semen is known to increase litter size but the underlying physiological mechanisms remain undefined. Studies in rodents and humans implicate immune modulating moieties in seminal plasma as likely candidates, acting through enhancing the receptivity of the female tract. In this study, the acute and longer term effects of seminal plasma on cytokine expression and leukocyte abundance in the pig endometrium during early pregnancy have been characterised. The reproductive tracts of gonadotrophin-primed pre-pubertal gilts treated with intrauterine infusions of either pooled seminal plasma or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) were retrieved at 34 h, or on day 5 and day 9 after treatment. Seminal plasma elicited an endometrial inflammatory infiltrate comprised of predominantly macrophages and major histocompatibility complex class II+-activated macrophages and dendritic cells. The abundance of these cells was greatest at the pre-ovulatory (34 h) time-point and their increase relative to PBS-treated tissues was maintained until day 9 after seminal plasma treatment. Seminal plasma induced the expression of the cytokines, granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor, interleukin-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and the eicosanoid-synthesising enzyme cyclo-oxygenase-2. Expression was maximal 34 h after treatment but altered expression patterns as a consequence of seminal plasma induction persisted through early pregnancy. These changes were accompanied by altered dynamics in pre-implantation embryo development with an increase in the number of embryos and in their viability after seminal plasma treatment. Together, these findings implicate factors in seminal plasma in programming the trajectory of uterine cytokine expression and leukocyte trafficking during early pregnancy and in regulating pre-implantation embryo development in the pig.
Expression of the full-length and alternatively spliced equine luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor mRNAs in the primary corpus luteum and fetal gonads during pregnancy
Authors: Saint-Dizier Marie , Chopineau Maryse , Dupont Joëlle , Combarnous Yves
Published: July 2004

The full-length equine luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin (LH/CG) receptor (eLH/CG-RA) cDNA and two alternatively spliced isoforms (eLH/CG-RB,C) were isolated from luteal tissue and characterized using a combination of reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and 5′-rapid amplification of cDNA ends. The 680-amino acid full sequence of eLH/CG-RAdisplayed 87–92% homology with other mammalian LH/CG-Rs. The eLH/CG-RBand eLH/CG-RCcDNA isoforms were truncated from the 3′-end of exon X: eLH/CG-RBspliced out of frame into the last exon whereas eLH/CG-RCcontained an in-frame stop codon within a divergent sequence. Consequently, both eLH/CG-RBand eLH/CG-RCcDNA isoforms encoded putative proteins without transmembrane and intracellular domains.

In order to study the responsiveness of the primary corpus luteum (CL) and fetal gonads to eCG, the expression of eLH/CG-R mRNAs was examined by RT-PCR and Northern blot analysis during early and mid-pregnancy. All three eLH/CG-R cDNA isoforms (eLH/CG-RA,B,C) were expressed from day 14 to day 83 of pregnancy in the primary CL and from day 44 to day 222 in fetal gonads. Interestingly, the primary CL at days 89 and 151 expressed only truncated eLH/CG-R cDNA isoforms. The relative values of Northern hybridized major 7, 5.7, 3.9 and 1.8 kb eLH/CG-R mRNA transcripts tended to decrease in the primary CL whereas the unique major 1.8 kb eLH/CG-R mRNA was steadily expressed in fetal gonads during pregnancy. These results show that the expression of eLH/CG-R mRNAs occurs in the fetal gonads before ceasing in the primary CL and suggest that eCG may be involved in the gradual transition from a luteal to a feto-placental output of steroids during equine pregnancy.
In vivo and in vitro differentiation of male germ cells in the mouse
Authors: Lacham-Kaplan Orly
Published: July 2004

Primordial germ cells appear in the embryo at about day 7 after coitum. They proliferate and migrate towards the genital ridge. Once there, they undergo differentiation into germ stem cells, known as ‘A spermatogonia’. These cells are the foundation of spermatogenesis. A spermatogonia commit to spermatogenesis, stay undifferentiated or degenerate. The differentiation of primordial germ cells to migratory, postmigratory and germ stem cells is dependent on gene expression and cellular interactions. Some of the genes that play a crucial role in germ cell differentiation areSteel, c-Kit,VASA, DAZL, fragilis, miwi, mili, mil1andmil2. Their expression is stage specific, therefore allowing solid identification of germ cells at different developmental phases. In addition to the expression of these genes, other markers associated with germ cell development are nonspecific alkaline phosphatase activity, the stage specific embryonic antigen, the transcription factorOct3/4and β1- and α6-integrins. Commitment of cells to primordial germ cells and to A spermatogonia is also dependent on induction by the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-4. With this knowledge, researchers were able to isolate germ stem cells from embryonic stem cell-derived embryoid bodies, and drive these into gametes eitherin vivoorin vitro. Although no viable embryos were obtained from these gametes, the prospects are that this goal is not too far from being accomplished.
Colorectal Cancer Screening Programs in Latin America
Authors: Montalvan-Sanchez Eleazar E. , Norwood Dalton A. , Dougherty Michael , Beas Renato , Guranizo-Ortiz Maria , Ramirez-Rojas Miriam , Morgan Douglas R. , Imperiale Thomas F.
Published: February 2024

Importance

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally, with increasing incidence and mortality in Latin America. CRC screening programs can reduce disease burden, but information on screening programs in Latin America is limited.

Objective

To describe characteristics (eg, type of program, uptake, neoplastic yield) of CRC screening programs in Latin America.

Data Sources

PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, PsycINFO, Web of Science Core Collection, LILACS, and SciELO were searched from inception to February 2023. Relevant references from bibliographies, conference proceedings, and gray literature were considered. The search strategy included English, Spanish, and Portuguese terms.

Study Selection

Included were studies of CRC screening programs in Latin America using fecal immunochemical test (FIT) or colonoscopy as the primary screening method. Four reviewers independently assessed study eligibility based on titles, with review of abstracts and full texts as needed.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Guidelines from Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) were followed for data abstraction and quality assessment. Descriptive information was extracted, and data were pooled using a random-effects model.

Main outcomes and Measures

Program performance indicators included rates of participation and FIT positivity, adenoma detection rate (ADR), advanced adenoma detection rate (AADR), CRC detection rate, and colonoscopy quality indicators.

Results

There were 17 studies included from upper middle-income and high-income countries in Latin America with a total of 123 929 participants. Thirteen studies used FIT as the initial screening method, whereas 4 used screening colonoscopy. The participation rate in FIT-based programs was 85.8% (95% CI, 78.5%-91.4%). FIT positivity rates were 15.2% (95% CI, 9.6%-21.8%) for the 50-ng/mL threshold and 9.7% (95% CI, 6.8%-13.0%) for the 100-ng/mL threshold. For FIT-based studies, the pooled ADR was 39.0% (95% CI, 29.3%-49.2%) and CRC detection rate was 4.9% (95% CI, 2.6%-7.9%); for screening colonoscopy–based studies, the pooled ADR was 19.9% (95% CI, 15.5%-24.8%) and CRC detection rate was 0.4% (95% CI, 0.1%-0.8%).

Conclusions and Relevance

This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that CRC screening in upper middle-income countries in Latin America is feasible, detecting rates of neoplasia comparable with those of high-income regions. Population-based screening programs should be developed or enhanced in these settings. There is a knowledge gap regarding feasibility and yield of screening programs in lower middle-income countries.
Association of Skin Microbiome Dynamics With Radiodermatitis in Patients With Breast Cancer
Authors: Hülpüsch Claudia , Neumann Avidan Uriel , Reiger Matthias , Fischer Julius Clemens , de Tomassi Amedeo , Hammel Gertrud , Gülzow Carina , Fleming Megan , Dapper Hendrik , Mayinger Michael , Vogel Marco , Ertl Christina , Combs Stephanie Elisabeth , Traidl-Hoffmann Claudia , Borm Kai Joachim
Published: February 2024

Importance

The interindividual differences in severity of acute radiation dermatitis are not well understood. To date, the pathomechanism and interplay of microbiome and radiodermatitis before and during treatment remain largely unknown.

Objective

To assess the association of skin microbiome baseline composition and dynamics with severity of radiodermatitis in patients undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A longitudinal prospective pilot observational study was conducted between January 2017 and January 2019. Sequencing results were received in March 2021, and the data were analyzed from August 2021 to March 2023. This study was performed at an urban academic university cancer center. A total of 21 female patients with breast cancer after surgery were consecutively approached, of which 1 patient withdrew consent before the study started.

Exposure

Adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer for 7 weeks.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was the association of baseline skin microbiome composition and its dynamics with the severity of radiodermatitis. A total of 360 skin microbiome samples from patients were analyzed, taken before, during, and after radiotherapy, from both the treated and contralateral healthy sides. The skin microbiome samples were analyzed using 16S (V1-V3) amplicon sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction bacterial enumeration.

Results

Twenty female patients with breast cancer after surgery who underwent radiotherapy enrolled in the study had a median (range) age of 61 (37-81) years. The median (range) body mass index of the patients was 24.2 (17.6-38.4). The 16S sequencing revealed that low (<5%) relative abundance of commensal skin bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus hominis, Cutibacterium acnes) at baseline composition was associated with the development of severe radiodermatitis with an accuracy of 100% (sensitivity and specificity of 100%, P < .001). Furthermore, in patients with severe radiodermatitis, quantitative polymerase chain reaction bacterial enumeration revealed a general non–species-specific overgrowth of skin bacterial load before the onset of severe symptoms. Subsequently, the abundance of commensal bacteria increased in severe radiodermatitis, coinciding with a decline in total bacterial load.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this observational study indicated a potential mechanism associated with the skin microbiome for the pathogenesis of severe radiodermatitis, which may be a useful biomarker for personalized prevention of radiodermatitis in patients undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer.
Enhanced ·OH‐Scavenging Activity of Cu‐CeOx Nanozyme via Resurrecting Macrophage Nrf2 Transcriptional Activity Facilitates Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Zhu Ziyang , Ding Jingxin , Qin Muyan , Wang Lingtian , Jiang Dajun , Zhao Jinhui , Wang Deping , Jia Weitao
Published: February 2024

Diabetic wounds are a prevalent and devastating complication of diabetes, which may impede their healing and regeneration. In diabetic wounds, excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) activate the nuclear factor kappa‐B pathway, leading to transcriptional silencing of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), resulting in a vicious cycle of oxidative stress and inflammation. Conventional nanozymes have limitations in preventing the continuous production of ROS, including the most oxidizing reactive hydroxyl radical (·OH), although they can remove pre‐existing ROS. Herein, a novel antioxidant nanoplatform addresses this challenge by incorporating JSH‐23 into the mesoporous of cupric‐doped cerium oxide nanozymes. Additionally, for rapid wound adaptability and durable tissue adhesion, a nanozyme hydrogel spray consisting of oxidized sodium alginate and methacrylate gelatin is constructed, named OG@CCJs. This platform resurrects Nrf2 transcriptional activity of macrophages in vitro, curbing the production of ROS at its source, particularly ·OH, while enabling the nanozymes to scavenge previously generated ROS. OG@CCJs significantly alleviate oxidative stress in diabetic wounds in vivo, promoting wound healing. Overall, the proposed nanozyme‐hydrogel spray with enhanced ·OH‐scavenging activity uses a “two‐track” antioxidant strategy to rebuild the antioxidant defense barrier of macrophages. This pioneering approach highlights the tremendous potential of OG@CCJs for facilitating diabetic wound healing.
Turning Threat to Therapy: A Nanozyme‐Patch in Surgical Bed for Convenient Tumor Vaccination by Sustained In Situ Catalysis
Authors: Wang Zhaohui , Dong Min , Pan Yuhang , Zhang Lu , Lei Haozhuo , Zheng Yuanzhe , Shi Yanbin , Liu Shuang , Li Nan , Wang Yalong
Published: February 2024

Complete surgical resection of tumor is difficult as the invasiveness of cancer, making the residual tumor a lethal threat to patients. The situation is deteriorated by the immune suppression state after surgery, which further nourishes tumor recurrence and metastasis. Immunotherapy is promising to combat tumor metastasis, but is limited by severe toxicity of traditional immunostimulants and complexity of multiple functional units. Here, it is reported that the simple “trans‐surgical bed” delivery of Cu2−xSe nanozyme (CSN) by a microneedle‐patch can turn the threat to therapy by efficient in situ vaccination. The biocompatible CSN exhibits both peroxidase and glutathione oxidase‐like activities, efficiently exhausting glutathione, boosting free radical generation, and inducing immunogenic cell death. The once‐for‐all inserting of the patch on surgical bed facilitates sustained catalytic action, leading to drastic decrease of recurrence rate and complete suppression of tumor‐rechallenge in cured mice. In vivo mechanism interrogation reveals elevated cytotoxic T cell infiltration, re‐educated macrophages, increased dendritic cell maturation, and memory T cells formation. Importantly, preliminary metabolism and safety evaluation validated that the metal accumulation is marginable, and the important biochemical indexes are in normal range during therapy. This study has provided a simple, safe, and robust tumor vaccination approach for postsurgical metastasis control.
Self‐Disassembling and Oxygen‐Generating Porphyrin‐Lipoprotein Nanoparticle for Targeted Glioblastoma Resection and Enhanced Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Chen Yaoxing , Ma Yuxiao , Shi Kexin , Chen Huan , Han Xiao , Wei Chenxuan , Lyu Yingqi , Huang Yukun , Yu Renhe , Song Yun , Song Qingxiang , Jiang Jiyao , Feng Junfeng , Lin Yingying , Chen Jun , Chen Hongzhuan , Zheng Gang , Gao Xiaoling , Jiang Gan
Published: February 2024

The dismal prognosis for glioblastoma multiform (GBM) patients is primarily attributed to the highly invasive tumor residual that remained after surgical intervention. The development of precise intraoperative imaging and postoperative residual removal techniques will facilitate the gross total elimination of GBM. Here, a self‐disassembling porphyrin lipoprotein‐coated calcium peroxide nanoparticles (PLCNP) is developed to target GBM via macropinocytosis, allowing for fluorescence‐guided surgery of GBM and improving photodynamic treatment (PDT) of GBM residual by alleviating hypoxia. By reducing self‐quenching and enhancing lysosome escape efficiency, the incorporation of calcium peroxide (CaO2) cores in PLCNP amplifies the fluorescence intensity of porphyrin‐lipid. Furthermore, the CaO2 core has diminished tumor hypoxia and improves the PDT efficacy of PLCNP, enabling low‐dose PDT and reversing tumor progression induced by hypoxia aggravation following PDT. Taken together, this self‐disassembling and oxygen‐generating porphyrin‐lipoprotein nanoparticle may serve as a promising all‐in‐one nanotheranostic platform for guiding precise GBM excision and empowering post‐operative PDT, providing a clinically applicable strategy to combat GBM in a safe and effective manner.
Triboelectric Energy Harvesting from Highly Conjugated Fused Aromatic Ladder Structure Under Extreme Environmental Conditions
Authors: Saqib Qazi Muhammad , Ahmad Ishfaq , Mannan Abdul , Mahmood Javeed , Ameen Shahid , Patil Chandrashekhar S. , Noman Muhammad , Kim Jungmin , Okyay Mahmut Sait , Patil Swapnil R. , Ko Youngbin , Noh Hyuk‐Jun , Wong Bryan M. , Kim BongSoo , Bae Jinho , Baek Jong‐Beom
Published: February 2024

Practical application of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) has been challenging, particularly, under harsh environmental conditions. This work proposes a novel 3D‐fused aromatic ladder (FAL) structure as a tribo‐positive material for TENGs, to address these challenges. The 3D‐FAL offers a unique materials engineering platform for tailored properties, such as high specific surface area and porosity, good thermal and mechanical stability, and tunable electronic properties. The fabricated 3D‐FAL‐based TENG reaches a maximum peak power density of 451.2 µW cm−2 at 5 Hz frequency. More importantly, the 3D‐FAL‐based TENG maintains stable output performance under harsh operating environments, over wide temperature (−45–100 °C) and humidity ranges (8.3–96.7% RH), representing the development of novel FAL for sustainable energy generation under challenging environmental conditions. Furthermore, the 3D‐FAL‐based TENG proves to be a promising device for a speed monitoring system engaging reconstruction in virtual reality in a snowy environment.
The Microscopic Mechanism of Lithiation and Delithiation in the Ag/C Buffer Layer for Anode‐Free Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Xie Fengyu , Diallo Mouhamad Said , Kim Haegyeom , Tu Qingsong Howard , Ceder Gerbrand
Published: February 2024

Lithium metal solid‐state batteries (LMSSBs) have demonstrated their high energy density and cycling performance at high current densities in an anode‐free architecture, featuring a thin Ag/C composite buffer layer (BL) between the current collector (CC) and the solid electrolyte (SE). This study explains the microscopic mechanism of the Ag/C BL by using first‐principles atomistic and continuum modeling. It is shown that Ag effectively acts as a homogeneous solid‐solution beyond AgLi2.32 and maintains a positive potential even at AgLi25 during lithiation. Key factors underlying the working of the Ag/C BL include lower interfacial resistance at the BL/CC interface than at the BL/SE interface, leading to predominant Li deposition on BL/CC, and substantial Ag–Li volume expansion during lithiation. This, combined with stronger BL/SE adhesion, causes BL/SE separation and Ag–Li extrusion toward the CC side. During delithiation, Ag re‐precipitates as nanoparticles uniformly on the CC, with its positive lithiation potential homogenizing Li currents in subsequent cycles. Other metals are less effective due to their relatively large overpotential, premature lithiation termination, and limited volume expansions hindering movement toward the CC. The study aids the BL design, focusing on metal choice and optimization material and microstructural properties, such as the Li‐ion conductivity and interfacial resistance.
10 mAh cm−2 Cathode by Roll‐to‐Roll Process for Low Cost and High Energy Density Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Jiwoon , Park Keemin , Kim Minsung , Lee Hyungjun , Choi Junghyun , Park Ho Bum , Kim Hansu , Jang Jaeyoung , Kim Young‐Hoon , Song Taeseup , Paik Ungyu
Published: February 2024

Roll‐to‐roll dry processing enables the manufacture of high energy density and low cost Li‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, as the thickness of the electrode fabricated by dry processing becomes greater (≥10 mAh cm−2), Li‐ion migration resistance (Rion) and charge‐transfer resistance (Rct) in the electrode dramatically increase due to long diffusion lengths for Li‐ion and electron. Therefore, it is important to reduce diffusion lengths in the electrode to achieve high energy density LIBs. The dry electrode with a high areal capacity of 10 mAh cm−2 and low resistance can be achieved by following three characteristics. First, the fibrillization behavior of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) binder is controlled by adjusting the processing temperature during the fibrillization process, which enables uniform distribution of PTFE binder and carbon black (CB). Second, pore size/distribution and conducting network are engineered by multi‐dimensional conducting agents, enhancing Li‐ions and electrons transport in the electrode. Finally, the structural integrity of LiNi0.80Co0.15Al0.05O2 (NCA) particles is improved without fractures, which enables uniform pore distribution in the electrode by controlling the calendering step. The prepared 10 mAh cm−2 dry electrode with homogeneous microstructure shows reduced Rion and Rct due to short diffusion lengths, which improves electrochemical performances in LIBs with a high volumetric energy density of ≈710 Wh L−1.
Altered cerebellar and caudate gray‐matter volumes and structural covariance networks preceding dual cognitive and mobility impairments in older people
Authors: Lee Pei‐Lin , Chou Kun‐Hsien , Lee Wei‐Ju , Peng Li‐Ning , Chen Liang‐Kung , Lin Ching‐Po , Liang Chih‐Kuang , Chung Chih‐Ping
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION

The neuroanatomical changes driving both cognitive and mobility impairments, an emerging preclinical dementia syndrome, are not fully understood. We examined gray‐matter volumes (GMVs) and structural covariance networks (SCNs) abnormalities in community‐based older people preceding the conversion to physio‐cognitive decline syndrome (PCDS).

METHODS

Voxel‐wise brain GMV and established SCNs were compared between PCDS and non‐PCDS converters.

RESULTS

The study included 343 individuals (60.2 ± 6.9 years, 49.6% men) with intact cognitive and mobility functions. Over an average 5.6‐year follow‐up, 116 transitioned to PCDS. Identified regions with abnormal GMVs in PCDS converters were over cerebellum and caudate, which served as seeds for SCNs establishment. Significant differences in cerebellum‐based (to right frontal pole and left middle frontal gyrus) and caudate‐based SCNs (to right caudate putamen, right planum temporale, left precentral gyrus, right postcentral gyrus, and left parietal operculum) between converters and nonconverters were observed.

DISCUSSION

This study reveals early neuroanatomic changes, emphasizing the cerebellum's role, in dual cognitive and mobility impairments.

Highlights

Neuroanatomic precursors of dual cognitive and mobility impairments are identified.

Cerebellar GMV reductions and increased right caudate GMV precede the onset of PCDS.

Altered cerebellum‐ and caudate‐based SCNs drive PCDS transformation.

This research establishes a foundation for understanding PCDS as a specific dementia syndrome.
Boundary‐Rich Carbon‐Based Electrocatalysts with Manganese(II)‐Coordinated Active Environment for Selective Synthesis of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Dong Ling‐Yu , Wang Jing‐Song , Li Tian‐Yi , Wu Tao , Hu Xu , Wu Yu‐Tai , Zhu Min‐Yi , Hao Guang‐Ping , Lu An‐Hui
Published: February 2024

Coordinated manganese (Mn) electrocatalysts owing to their electronic structure flexibility, non‐toxic and earth abundant features are promising for electrocatalytic reactions. However, achieving selective hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production through two electron oxygen reduction (2e‐ORR) is a challenge on Mn‐centered catalysts. Targeting this goal, we report on the creation of a secondary Mn(II)‐coordinated active environment with reactant enrichment effect on boundary‐rich porous carbon‐based electrocatalysts, which facilitates the selective and rapid synthesis of H2O2 through 2e‐ORR. The catalysts exhibit nearly 100 % Faradaic efficiency and H2O2 productivity up to 15.1 mol gcat−1 h−1 at 0.1 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode, representing the record high activity for Mn‐based electrocatalyst in H2O2 electrosynthesis. Mechanistic studies reveal that the epoxide and hydroxyl groups surrounding Mn(II) centers improve spin state by modifying electronic properties and charge transfer, thus tailoring the adsorption strength of *OOH intermediate. Multiscale simulations reveal that the high‐curvature boundaries facilitate oxygen (O2) adsorption and result in local O2 enrichment due to the enhanced interaction between carbon surface and O2. These merits together ensure the efficient formation of H2O2 with high local concentration, which can directly boost the tandem reaction of hydrolysis of benzonitrile to benzamide with nearly 100 % conversion rate and exclusive benzamide selectivity.
1D Covalent Organic Frameworks Triggering Highly Efficient Photosynthesis of H2O2 via Controllable Modular Design
Authors: Li Panjie , Ge Feiyue , Yang Yong , Wang Tianyu , Zhang Xiaoyue , Zhang Kan , Shen Jinyou
Published: February 2024

The topological diversity of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) enables considerable space for exploring their structure‐performance relationships. In this study, we report a sequence of novel 1D COFs (EO, ES, and ESe‐COF) with typical 4‐c sql topology that can be interconnected with VIA group elements (O, S, and Se) via a modular design strategy. It is found that the electronic structures, charge delivery property, light harvesting ability, and hydrophilicity of these 1D COFs can be profoundly influenced by the bridge‐linked atom ordinal. Finally, EO‐COF, possessing the highest quantity of active sites, the longest lifetime of the active electron, the strongest interaction with O2, and the lowest energy barrier of O2 reduction, exhibits exceptional photocatalytic O2‐to‐H2O2 activity under visible light, with a production rate of 2675 μmol g−1 h−1 and a high apparent quantum yield of 6.57 % at 450 nm. This is the first systematic report on 1D COFs for H2O2 photosynthesis, which enriches the topological database in reticular chemistry and promotes the exploration of structure‐catalysis correlation.
Injection molding of biodegradable polyester blends filled with mineral and sustainable fillers: Performance evaluation
Authors: McNeill Dayna Colleen , Pal Akhilesh Kumar , Mohanty Amar K. , Misra Manjusri
Published: February 2024

This research focuses on the melt processing of biocomposites from a biodegradable polymer blend mixed with hybrid fillers through injection molding technique. An optimized blend ratio (60/40 wt%) poly(butylene succinate‐co‐butylene adipate) (PBSA) and poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) demonstrated promising results after blending with a mixture of walnut shell powder (WSP), corn starch and talc in various proportions for use in rigid packaging. The addition of hybrid fillers (i) 10% WSP with 15% talc and (ii) 5% WSP with 5% starch and 15% talc to the polymer blend (60%PBSA/40%PBAT) improved tensile modulus (160% and 162%, respectively) and flexural modulus (147% and 153%, respectively) because of the dispersion of stiffer talc and WSP. Following the addition of fillers, tensile strength of the composites decreased. However, flexural strength improved significantly after filler introduction because of better stress transfer ability. Rheological analysis of filled composites with starch or WSP (25%) depicted similar characteristics of the polymer blend, indicating lower viscosity than hybrid composites. The abundant hydroxyl groups in starch explained the increased water absorption and decreased contact angle compared with other composites. This research's novelty encompasses utilizing low‐cost biomasses with mineral filler into an under‐researched biodegradable polymer blend suitable for single‐use rigid packaging applications.
A comparison of student perspectives on body donation across healthcare professional programs: From prosection‐ to dissection‐based curricula
Authors: Claveria Alexandra , Bachour Dona , Balta Joy Y. , Antonacci Rosetta , Ventura Nicole M. , Noel Geoffroy P. J. C.
Published: February 2024

Donor‐centered education offers students the opportunity to not only acquire visual and tactile experiences for applying anatomical knowledge but also a chance for students to reflect upon fundamental humanistic principles. The exploration of differences in students' viewpoints on body donation and the utilization of body donors in their education remains unexplored across various healthcare professional programs, which has an impact on student learning and experience. This study aimed to qualitatively examine the similarities and differences in student perspectives regarding body donation across three healthcare professional programs. One‐page reflections from nursing (n = 37), physical and occupational therapy (n = 49), and medical students (n = 66) regarding their experiences in the anatomy laboratory at McGill University were collected and analyzed using a deductive approach based on themes and sub‐themes outlined by Stephens et al. in 2019. Despite differences in their curricula, there were few discrepancies across the programs' reflections suggesting that donor‐based learning had similar effects on each user group. Most students across the healthcare professional programs mentioned that their positive laboratory experiences motivated them to donate their bodies, extending the privilege they had to future generations. Nursing students did not reflect upon the notion that working with body donors provided unique learning experiences in the anatomy laboratory. Likewise, physical and occupational therapy (PT/OT) students did not address the importance of maintaining the privacy of body donors by covering certain body parts during lab. These findings show that prosection‐ and dissection‐based exercises encourage reflective practices associated with these of medical ethics, highlighting an important advantage to including donor‐based learning in anatomical education.
Signal‐to‐noise errors in free‐running atmospheric simulations and their dependence on model resolution
Authors: Cottrell Francesca M. , Screen James A. , Scaife Adam A.
Published: February 2024

Ensemble forecasts have been shown to better predict observed Atlantic climate variability than that of their own ensemble members. This phenomenon—termed the signal‐to‐noise paradox—is found to be widespread across models, timescales, and climate variables, and has wide implications. The signal‐to‐noise paradox can be interpreted as forecasts underestimating the amplitude of predictable signals on seasonal‐to‐decadal timescales. The cause of this remains unknown. Here, we examine sea level pressure variability from a very large multi‐model ensemble of uninitialized atmosphere‐only simulations, focusing on boreal winter. To assess signal‐to‐noise errors, the ratio of predictable components (RPC) is examined globally, as well as for regional climate indices: the North Atlantic Oscillation, Arctic Oscillation, Southern Annular Mode, and an Arctic index. Our analyses reveal significant correlations between the multi‐model ensemble‐mean and observations over large portions of the globe, particularly the tropics, North Atlantic, and North Pacific. However, RPC values greater than one are apparent over many extratropical regions and in all four climate indices. Higher‐resolution models produce greater observation‐model correlations and greater RPC values than lower‐resolution models in all four climate indices. We find that signal‐to‐noise errors emerge more clearly at higher resolution, but the amplitudes of predictable signals do not increase with resolution, at least across the range of resolutions considered here. Our results suggest that free‐running atmospheric models underestimate predictable signals in the absence of sea surface temperature biases, implying that signal‐to‐noise errors originate in the atmosphere or in ocean–atmosphere coupling.
The impact of pre‐biopsy MRI and additional testing on prostate cancer screening outcomes: A rapid review
Authors: Tesfai Abel , Norori Natalia , Harding Thomas A. , Wong Yui Hang , Hobbs Matthew David
Published: February 2024

Objective

This work aims to examine the latest evidence on the impact of pre‐biopsy MRI, in addition to prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) testing, on health outcomes and quality of life.

Methods

We conducted a literature search including PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) databases, with a limited scan of (i) guidelines and (ii) references from trial reports, from January 2005 to 25th January 2023. Two independent reviewers selected randomised controlled trials (RCT) and cohort studies which met our inclusion criteria.

Results

One hundred thirty‐seven articles were identified, and seven trial articles were selected. Trial interventions were as follows: (i) PSA blood test, (ii) additional tests such as pre‐biopsy multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and Biparametric MRI (bpMRI), and (iii) MRI targeted biopsy and standard biopsy. Compared with standard biopsy, MRI‐based interventions led to increased detection of clinically significant cancers in three studies and decreased detection of clinically insignificant cancer (Gleason grade 3 + 3) in four studies. However, PROstate Magnetic resonance Imaging Study (PROMIS) and Stockholm3 with MRI (STHLM3‐MRI) studies reported different trends depending on the scenario studied in PROMIS (MRI triage and MRI directed biopsy vs. MRI triage and standard biopsy) and thresholds used in STHLM3‐MRI (≥0·11 and ≥0·15). MRI also helped 8%–49% of men avoid biopsy, in six out of seven studies, but not in STHLM3‐MRI at ≥0.11. Interestingly, the proportion of men who experienced sepsis and UTI was low across studies.

Conclusion

This review found that a combination of approaches, centred on the use of pre‐biopsy MRI, may improve the detection of clinically significant cancers and reduce (i) the diagnosis of clinically insignificant cancers and (ii) unnecessary biopsies, compared with PSA testing and standard biopsy alone. However, the impact of such interventions on longer term outcomes such as prostate cancer‐specific mortality has not yet been assessed.
Understanding communication between patients and healthcare professionals regarding comprehensive biomarker testing in precision oncology: A scoping review
Authors: Pichler Theresia , Mumm Friederike , Dehar Navdeep , Dickman Erin , Díez de Los Ríos de la Serna Celia , Dinkel Andreas , Heinrich Kathrin , Hennink Merel , Parviainen Anndra D. , Raske Vincent , Wicki Nicole , Moore Amy C.
Published: February 2024

Background

Precision oncology, using comprehensive biomarker testing (cBT) to inform individual cancer diagnosis, prognosis and treatment, includes increasingly complex technology and clinical data sets. People impacted by cancer (patients and caregivers) and healthcare professionals (HCPs) face distinct challenges in navigating the cBT and personalized treatment landscape. This review summarizes evidence regarding cBT‐related communication between people impacted by cancer and HCPs and identifies important avenues for future research in precision oncology.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted using records published in PubMed during January 2017–August 2022, focusing on the breadth of topics on patient‐HCP communication and knowledge resources used by HCPs as guidance in cBT‐related communication. Data were extracted from records meeting inclusion criteria, and findings were summarized according to main topics.

Results

The search identified 287 unique records and data were extracted from 42 records, including nine from expert input. Most records originated from the United States included patients with different types of cancer, and oncologists were the main HCPs. Patients' motivation for undergoing cBT and receiving results was generally high in different settings. However, patients' understanding of cBT‐related concepts was limited, and their knowledge and information preferences changed based on cBT implications and significance to family members. HCPs were valued by patients as a trusted source of information. Limited evidence was available on HCPs' information‐seeking behavior and factors influencing cBT‐related knowledge and confidence, often self‐reported as insufficient.

Conclusions

Patient education by knowledgeable and confident HCPs, information management and a caring patient‐HCP relationship communicating continuity of care regardless of cBT results are crucial to empower patients and shared decision‐making in precision oncology. More data on the process and structure of cBT‐related communication, distinction between and characterization of different timepoints of patient‐HCP interactions are needed.
Pirfenidone: A Promising Drug in Ocular Therapeutics
Authors: Bisen Amol Chhatrapati , Agrawal Sristi , Rayiti Ramakrishna , Sanap Sachin Nashik , Biswas Arpon , Mishra Anjali , Gupta Neeraj Mohan , Bhatta Rabi Sankar
Published: February 2024

Pirfenidone, initially indicated for lung fibrosis, has gone beyond its original purpose, and shown promise in eye care. This detailed review tracks its evolution from lung treatment to aiding eye healing as evidenced by published literature. Pirfenidone's multifaceted attributes extend to mitigating corneal fibrosis, inflammation, and trauma. Through rigorous investigations, its efficacy emerges in diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and postoperative glaucoma interventions. As an unheralded protagonist, pirfenidone reshapes ocular care paradigms, inviting renewed research opportunities.