bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distributional dynamics of a vulnerable species in response to past and future climate change: a window for conservation prospects
Authors: Bai Yunjun , Wei Xueping , Li Xiaoqiang
Published: January 2018

Background

The ongoing change in climate is predicted to exert unprecedented effects on Earth’s biodiversity at all levels of organization. Biological conservation is important to prevent biodiversity loss, especially for species facing a high risk of extinction. Understanding the past responses of species to climate change is helpful for revealing response mechanisms, which will contribute to the development of effective conservation strategies in the future.

Methods

In this study, we modelled the distributional dynamics of a ‘Vulnerable’ species,Pseudolarix amabilis, in response to late Quaternary glacial-interglacial cycles and future 2080 climate change using an ecological niche model (MaxEnt). We also performed migration vector analysis to reveal the potential migration of the population over time.

Results

Historical modelling indicates that the range dynamics ofP. amabilisis highly sensitive to climate change and that its long-distance dispersal ability and potential for evolutionary adaption are limited. Compared to the current climatically suitable areas for this species, future modelling showed significant migration northward towards future potential climatically suitable areas.

Discussion

In combination with the predicted future distribution, the mechanism revealed by the historical response suggests that this species will not be able to fully occupy the future expanded areas of suitable climate or adapt to the unsuitable climate across the future contraction regions. As a result, we suggest assisted migration as an effective supplementary means of conserving this vulnerable species in the face of the unprecedentedly rapid climate change of the 21st century. As a study case, this work highlights the significance of introducing historical perspectives while researching species conservation, especially for currently vulnerable or endangered taxa that once had a wider distribution in geological time.
Use of Hearing Services in Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage
Authors: Bessen Sarah Y. , Garcia Morales Emmanuel E. , Lin Frank R. , Reed Nicholas S.
Published: October 2024

This cross-sectional study compares use of hearing evaluations and hearing aids among Medicare Advantage and traditional Medicare beneficiaries with hearing loss.
Ambulatory Follow-Up Visits After Emergency Department Discharge Among Medicaid Beneficiaries
Authors: Lin Michelle P. , Parrish Canada , Burke Laura G. , Burke Ryan C. , Sabbatini Amber
Published: October 2024

This cohort study examines Medicaid beneficiary visits to emergency departments (EDs) in Washington state from 2009 to 2017 to investigate the association between time to follow-up visit and 30-day ED revisits.
Eligible Infants Included in Neonatal Clinical Trials and Reasons for Noninclusion
Authors: Shaikh Henna , Lyle Allison N. J. , Oslin Ellie , Gray Megan M. , Weiss Elliott Mark
Published: October 2024

Importance

Results of clinical trials can only represent included participants, and many neonatal trials fail due to insufficient participation. Infants not included in research may differ from those included in meaningful ways, biasing the sample and limiting the generalizability of findings.

Objective

To describe the proportion of eligible infants included in neonatal clinical trials and the reasons for noninclusion.

Evidence Review

A systematic search of Cochrane CENTRAL was performed by retrieving articles meeting the following inclusion criteria: full-length, peer-reviewed articles describing clinical trial results in at least 20 human infants from US neonatal intensive care units, published in English, and added to Cochrane CENTRAL between 2017 and 2022. Retrieved articles were screened for inclusion by 2 independent researchers.

Findings

In total 120 articles met inclusion criteria and 91 of these (75.8%) reported the number of infants eligible for participation, which totaled 26 854 in aggregate. Drawing from these, an aggregate of 11 924 eligible infants (44.4%) were included in reported results. Among all eligible infants, most reasons for noninclusion in results were classified as modifiable or potentially modifiable by the research team. Parents declining to participate (8004 infants [29.8%]) or never being approached (2507 infants [9.3%]) were the 2 predominant reasons for noninclusion. Other modifiable reasons included factors related to study logistics, such as failure to appropriately collect data on enrolled infants (859 of 26 854 infants [3.2%]) and other reasons (1907 of 26 854 infants [7.1%]), such as loss to follow-up or eligible participants that were unaccounted for. Nonmodifiable reasons, including clinical change or death, accounted for a small proportion of eligible infants who were not included (858 of 26 854 infants [3.2%]).

Conclusions and Relevance

This systematic review of reporting on eligible infants included and not included in neonatal clinical trials highlights the need for improved documentation on the flow of eligible infants through neonatal clinical trials and may also inform recruitment expectations for trialists designing future protocols. Improved adherence to standardized reporting may clarify which potential participants are being missed, improving understanding of the generalizability of research findings. Furthermore, these findings suggest that future work to understand why parents decline to participate in neonatal research trials and why some are never approached about research may help increase overall participation.
Social Media and Suicide Risk in Youth
Authors: Jaycox Lisa H. , Murphy Eric R. , Zehr Julia L. , Pearson Jane L. , Avenevoli Shelli
Published: October 2024

Importance

Youth, parents, educators, and policymakers are concerned about the potential relationship between social media use and negative mental health outcomes, including risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Observations

Current research shows complex and conflicting relationships between social media use and suicide risk. A key limiting factor in clarifying these relationships is a dearth of available information on contextual factors around social media use, with most research focusing only on hours or amount of engagement. Whereas there are clear associations between some types of social media use and suicide risk, there are also many opportunities to mitigate suicide risk through social media. Several methodologic and measurement issues make research challenging. Researchers have only begun to explore how specific risk factors interact with individual vulnerabilities, how social media can be used to enhance youth well-being, and whether and under what circumstances mitigation strategies can be helpful.

Conclusions and Relevance

This overview identifies research gaps and methodological challenges that need to be addressed to guide intervention strategies and future policy relevant to youth and suicide risk.
Preparation of Self‐Driven Triboelectric Nanosensor Based on Chitosan‐Coated Ti Foil for Detecting Blood Glucose Concentration
Authors: Yao Ruijie , Xu Xiaoxue , Zhang Yixuan , Zhang Jing , Wang Weilong , Li Wei , Chen Minfang
Published: October 2024

The clinical diagnosis of diabetes mellitus typically depends on blood glucose measurements. Many laboratory studies have focused on enzyme–electrode biosensors that require an external power source. In this study, the potential of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) as self‐driven sensors for glucose detection is investigated by utilizing the glucose specificity of glucose oxidase. When immersed in glucose solutions with concentrations ranging from 3.9 to 13.1 mmol L−1, the TENGs exhibit a linear relationship between the glucose concentration and current and voltage changes. These findings suggest that the TENGs developed in this study can effectively function as glucose sensors, providing a foundation for future human blood glucose monitoring applications and demonstrating a promising new approach for biomedical sensor technology.
Sintering Behavior and Mechanical Properties of Ti–TiBw Composites Prepared with Pre‐alloyed Ti–TiBw Composite Powders
Authors: Shi Lu , Li Shufeng , Pan Deng , Liu Lei , Liu Huiying , Li Shaolong , Huang Wenfei , Hui Dongxu , Li Xin , Wang Shaodi , Zhang Xin , Li Bo
Published: October 2024

Prealloyed powders present a promising alternative to traditional ball milling processes in powder metallurgy, addressing challenges such as uneven powder mixing and incomplete reinforcement reactions. This study investigates the preparation of Ti–TiBw composites using spark plasma sintering (SPS) at temperatures ranging from 950 to 1050 °C, utilizing Ti–TiBw prealloyed composite powders. The effects of sintering temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti–TiBw composites are studied, comparing prealloyed composite powders with ball‐milled premixed powders. As a result, the composites exhibit excellent strength and ductility, with an ultimate tensile strength of 676 MPa at 1000 °C and an elongation of 20.42% at 1050 °C. Comparatively, Ti–TiBw composites prepared from premixed powders achieve densification at 1050 °C, 50 °C higher than those prepared from prealloyed powders.
Thermistors Based on Polyethylene Composites with γ‐Fe2O3/Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Hybrid Fillers for Protection of Electronic Circuits
Authors: Kobyliukh Anastasiia , Mamunya Yevgen , Godzierz Marcin , Olszowska Karolina , Pusz Sławomira , Musioł Marta , Szeluga Urszula
Published: October 2024

The objective of this research is to develop and characterize polyethylene composites with randomly and partially oriented hybrid filler (HF) based on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) decorated with gamma iron (III) oxide (γ‐Fe2O3) nanoparticles (Fe2O3/MWCNTs). The structure of Fe2O3/MWCNTs hybrid is determined by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and microscopy techniques (scanning electron microscopy–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy). A low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) matrix is filled with 5 and 10 vol% HF. The effect of external magnetic field on the distribution of Fe2O3/MWCNTs in LDPE composites comparing to filler distribution without magnetic field is studied. The XRD and differential scanning calorimetry results confirm an increasing trend in the degree of crystallinity of LDPE matrix with increasing HF content and as an additional result of magnetic field application. The presence of more ordered Fe2O3/MWCNT particles in the matrix has enhanced the nucleation effect for LDPE crystallization process in composites under magnetic field. The effect of magnetic treatment on thermal, electrical, and thermoresistive properties of HF‐LDPE composites is studied. The highest thermoresistive response (723%) and fastest recovery are detected for the HF‐LDPE composite with 10 vol% magnetically oriented filler with the perspective to be applied as a critical temperature resistor.
Single‐Crystalline LiMg Alloy Anode for Deep Cycling All Solid State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Zhang Linxue , Xu Dehua , Chen Hao , Li Rui , Hu Zhenglin , Wen Bohua , Chen Aosai , Liu Xingjiang , Luo Jiayan , Wang Aoxuan
Published: October 2024

All solid state lithium metal batteries (ASSLMBs) with enhanced energy density has driven the exploration of Li‐alloy anodes such as Li‐Mg alloy owing to its solid‐solution structure and high theoretical specific capacity. But the Li atom diffusion limitation on Li‐Mg electrode surface further leads to sluggish atoms transport dynamics. Herein, single‐crystalline (110)‐oriented Li0.9Mg0.1 (denoted as LiMg(110)) anode is obtained by a tailored melt‐annealing procedure to tackle the above issues. Theoretical analyses and experimental results demonstrate that the crystallographic structural (110) orientation of LiMg anode can facilitate Li atom diffusion and guarantee the electrode stability during deep cycling. As a result, the LiMg(110) electrode exhibits longer cycle life with lower overpotential than polycrystalline LiMg at high current densities and areal capacities in symmetric cells. A critical current density (CCD) at the forefront of 2.5 mA cm−2 is achieved in Li3InCl6 (LIC) solid‐state system. The ASSLMB with high areal capacity (3.8 mAh cm−2), high current density (0.76 mA cm−2), and low negative/positive capacity N/P ratio (2.14) achieves exceptional cyclability over 160 cycles. The outcomes highlight a promising crystallographic regulation strategy toward practical applications of high‐performance lithium metal batteries.
Multiferroic Microstructure Created from Invariant Line Constraint
Authors: Kar Satyakam , Ikeda Yuki , Nielsch Kornelius , Reith Heiko , Maaß Robert , Fähler Sebastian
Published: October 2024

Ferroic materials enable a multitude of emerging applications, and optimum functional properties are achieved when ferromagnetic and ferroelectric properties are coupled to a first‐order ferroelastic transition. In bulk materials, this first‐order transition involves an invariant habit plane, connecting coexisting phases: austenite and martensite. Theory predicts that this plane should converge to a line in thin films, but experimental evidence is missing. Here, the martensitic and magnetic microstructure of a freestanding epitaxial magnetic shape memory film is analyzed. It is shown that the martensite microstructure is determined by an invariant line constraint using lattice parameters of both phases as the only input. This line constraint explains most of the observable features, which differ fundamentally from bulk and constrained films. Furthermore, this finite‐size effect creates a remarkable checkerboard magnetic domain pattern through multiferroic coupling. The findings highlight the decisive role of finite‐size effects in multiferroics.
A Metalgel with Liquid Metal Continuum Immobilized in Polymer Network
Authors: Wang Jiacheng , Ye Tingting , Jiao Yiding , Ren Weitong , Li Yiran , Li Xusong , Li Yiran , Li Dan , Li Fangyan , Wang Yuanzhen , Song Jie , Zou Kuangyi , Mao Wei , Wu Ming , Tan Ruiyang , Lu Jiang , He Er , Wang Lie , Chen Hao , Li Luhe , Li Qianming , Bai Chenyu , Gao Rui , Ren Junye , Li Wenfei , Cao Yi , Zhang Ye
Published: October 2024

Gels are formed by fluids that expand throughout the whole volume of 3D polymer networks. To unlock unprecedented properties, exploring new fluids immobilized in polymer networks is crucial. Here, a new liquid metal‐polymer gel material termed “metalgel” is introduced via fluid replacement strategy, featuring 92.40% vol liquid metal fluid as a continuum immobilized by interconnected nanoscale polymer network. The unique structure endows metalgel with high electrical conductivity (up to 3.18 × 106 S·m‒1), tissue‐like softness (Young's modulus as low as 70 kPa), and low gas permeability (4.50 × 10‒22 m2·s‒1·Pa‒1). Besides, metalgel demonstrates electrical stability under extreme deformations, such as being run over by a 4.5‐metric‐tonne truck, and maintains its integrity in various environments for up to 180 days. The immobilization of high‐volume‐fraction liquid metal fluid is realized by electrostatic interactions is further revealed. Potential applications for metalgel are diverse and include soft electromagnetic shielding, hermetic sealing, and stimulating/sensing electrodes in implantable bioelectronics, underscoring its broad applicability.
Lead‐Free Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Tang Weidong , Liu Shengnan , Zhang Gan , Ren Zhixiang , Liu Zhe , Zhang Meng , Zhang Shi‐Yuan , Zou Chen , Zhao Baodan , Di Dawei
Published: October 2024

Metal halide perovskites have been identified as a promising class of materials for light‐emitting applications. The development of lead‐based perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) has led to substantial improvements, with external quantum efficiencies (EQEs) now surpassing 30% and operational lifetimes comparable to those of organic LEDs (OLEDs). However, the concern over the potential toxicity of lead has motivated a search for alternative materials that are both eco‐friendly and possess excellent optoelectronic properties, with lead‐free perovskites emerging as a strong contender. In this review, the properties of various lead‐free perovskite emitters are analyzed, with a particular emphasis on the more well‐reported tin‐based variants. Recent progress in enhancing device efficiencies through refined crystallization processes and the optimization of device configurations is also discussed. Additionally, the remaining challenges are examined, and propose strategies that may lead to stable device operation. Looking forward, the potential future developments for lead‐free PeLEDs are considered, including the extension of spectral range, the adoption of more eco‐friendly deposition techniques, and the exploration of alternative materials.
Dynamic Lock‐And‐Release Mechanism Enables Reduced ΔG at Low Temperatures for High‐Performance Polyanionic Cathode in Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Shuqiang , Lu Xueying , Li Yu , Wang Huaizhi , Sun Yufeng , Zhou Qiannan , Yue Jiasheng , Guo Ruiqi , Wu Feng , Wu Chuan , Bai Ying
Published: October 2024

Low‐temperature synthesis of polyanionic cathodes for sodium‐ion batteries is highly desirable but often plagued by prolonged reaction times and suboptimal crystallinity. To address these challenges, a novel self‐adaptive coordination field regulation (SACFR) strategy based on a dynamic lock‐and‐release (DLR) mechanism is introduced. Specifically, urea is used as a DLR carrier during synthesis, which dynamically “locks” and “releases” vanadium ions for controlled release, simultaneously “locking” H+ ions to enhance phosphate group release, thereby creating a self‐adaptive coordination field that can intelligently respond to real‐time demands of the reaction system. This dynamic coordination behavior contributes to both an improvement in reaction kinetics and a significant reduction in Gibbs free energy change (ΔG). As a result, the kinetic efficiency and thermodynamic spontaneity of the reaction are greatly enhanced, enabling the efficient synthesis of high‐crystalline Na3V2O2(PO4)2F (NVOPF) at 90 °C within just 3 hours. The as‐prepared NVOPF cathode exhibits exceptional rate performance and ultra‐stable cycling stability across a broad temperature range. Furthermore, the successful kilogram‐scale synthesis underscores the practical potential of the innovative strategy. This work pioneers the regulation of coordination field chemistry for polyanionic cathode synthesis, providing transformative insights into material design.
Nanoplastics: Immune Impact, Detection, and Internalization after Human Blood Exposure by Single‐Cell Mass Cytometry
Authors: Fusco Laura , Gazzi Arianna , Giro Linda , Schefer Roman B. , D'Almeida Sènan Mickael , Cagliani Roberta , Zoccheddu Martina , Uyar Recep , Besbinar Ömur , Çelik Doğantan , Yilmazer Acelya , Mitrano Denise M. , Orecchioni Marco , Delogu Lucia Gemma
Published: October 2024

The increasing exposure to nanoplastics (NPs) raises significant concerns for human health, primarily due to their potential bioaccumulative properties. While NPs have recently been detected in human blood, their interactions with specific immune cell subtypes and their impact on immune regulation remain unclear. In this proof‐of‐concept study, model palladium‐doped polystyrene NPs (PS‐Pd NPs) are utilized to enable single‐cell mass cytometry (CyTOF) detection. The size‐dependent impact of carboxylate polystyrene NPs (50–200 nm) is investigated across 15 primary immune cell subpopulations using CyTOF. By taking advantage of Pd‐doping for detecting PS‐Pd NPs, this work evaluates their impact on human immune‐cells at the single‐cell level following blood exposure. This work traces PS‐Pd NPs in 37 primary immune‐cell subpopulations from human blood, quantifying the palladium atom count per cell by CyTOF while simultaneously assessing the impact of PS‐Pd NPs on cell viability, functionality, and uptake. These results demonstrate that NPs can interact with, interfere with, and translocate into several immune cell subpopulations after exposure. In vivo distribution experiments in mice further confirmed their accumulation in immune cells within the liver, blood, and spleen, particularly in monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. These findings provide valuable insights into the impact of NPs on human health.
Bio‐Inspired Wettability Integrated System for Environmentally Adaptable Fog Harvesting
Authors: Guo Jie , Guo Zhiguang , Liu Weimin
Published: October 2024

Fog represents an underestimated water resource, particularly in arid coastal areas where the abundance of fog makes fog harvesting a highly viable and operational option. In response to the limitations of traditional fog harvesting techniques, biomimetic fog harvesting materials with special wettable surfaces have emerged as a promising solution, offering a notable enhancement in water collection efficiency (WCE). This work presents a bio‐inspired multi‐strategy fog harvesting material integrated with a wettability contrast pattern and asymmetric wettability. The implementation of multiple strategies at each stage of fog harvesting synergistically improves the WCE of aluminum plates by up to 53%. A solar‐powered active fog‐collecting system is devised based on this material to cope with changing environments, which demonstrates a significant improvement in WCE compared to a conventional fog net, reaching up to 736.67% under a static fog environment. This work provides a viable design of bio‐inspired fog harvesting materials and offers a promising approach for their large‐scale implementation.
Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Sensitizer with Through‐Space Charge Transfer Manipulated by Atom Distribution for Solution‐Processed Deep‐Blue Multi‐Resonance OLEDs
Authors: Shi Song , Wang Xingdong , Zhao Lei , Lv Jianhong , Shao Shiyang , Wang Lixiang
Published: October 2024

Organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) employing multi‐resonance (MR) emitters have attracted much attention due to their high luminescent efficiency and color purity, however, the development of deep‐blue multi‐resonance OLEDs is hindered by the lack of suitable sensitizers. Here a novel design strategy is reported for thermally activated delayed fluorescence sensitizer with high reverse intersystem crossing (kRISC) and radiative transition (kR) rate by regulating atom distribution of a spatially‐aligned carbazole donor/diphenylpyrimidine acceptor structure to manipulate through‐space charge transfer (CT) process. It is found that diphenylpyrimidine acceptor with 1,3‐position nitrogen atoms is un‐conjugated to bridging phenyl moiety by the conjugation node of pyrimidine, while the acceptor with 1,5‐position nitrogen atoms is conjugated to bridging phenyl through conjugation site, opening through‐bond CT pathway via bridging phenyl besides through‐space CT from spatial donor‐acceptor interactions. As a result, the sensitizer with 1,5‐position nitrogen atoms exhibits enhanced oscillator strength by 3.5 folds and accelerated kR of 3.57 × 107 s−1, while keeping high kRISC of 4.03 × 106 s−1 and high singlet (S1) state (2.88 eV). Solution‐processed OLEDs using the sensitizer and deep‐blue multi‐resonance emitter exhibit efficient narrowband electroluminescence with CIE coordinates of (0.14, 0.13) and EQEmax of 15.6%, representing the state‐of‐the‐art device performance for deep‐blue multi‐resonance OLEDs by solution process.
Characterization of modified low‐density polyethylene by cold atmospheric pressure plasma jet treatment in the melt state
Authors: Bertin Maicon , Fiedler Holger , Leitao Erin M. , Bickerton Simon , Verbeek Casparus Johannes Reinhard
Published: October 2024

Cold plasma treatment in the melt state is a novel area of research focused on producing modified polymers, hence more research on the underlying plasma‐polymer interactions in this context is needed. In this study, low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) was treated with a cold atmospheric pressure plasma jet (CAPPJ) during melt processing in a polymer batch mixer. Electron spin resonance (ESR) results proved that plasma treatment effectively generates free radicals in the material, increasing the room temperature spin concentration by an order of magnitude to 2 × 1015 spins g−1. The generated radicals react mainly by cross‐linking, forming a gel phase of up to 31%, and consequently increasing the polymer's melt viscosity. Furthermore, oxidation was established as solely a thermal effect limited by radical availability at the interface exposed to the atmosphere, whereas plasma exposure did not lead to further oxidation. Interestingly, plasma appears to interact with the thermally created ketone groups, possibly forming unsaturated carbonyl compounds.
A promising pullulan/PLA composite: Influence of pullulan in the scaffolds morphology constructed by 3D printing
Authors: Silva Neto Thalita , Maia Lana S. , Zanata Leonardo , Conceição Monique O. T. , Medeiros Simone F. , Faria Maria Ismênia S. D. , Rosa Derval S. , Mulinari Daniella R.
Published: October 2024

Manufacturing three‐dimensional scaffolds with significant rough and porous structures is advantageous in tissue regeneration approaches influencing cell growth. Thus, this work aims to study the effect of using different Pullulan contents (PULL) in the poly(lactic) acid (PLA) matrix for 3D printing scaffolds. PLA composites filler with PULL (5 and 10% wt.) were prepared in a thermokinetic mixer, extruded in a machine, and then used to print samples using a fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printer. The prepared filaments and scaffolds were characterized using Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetry analyses (TGA), water contact angle (WCA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and hardness techniques. The insertion of PULL into the PLA matrix influenced the increase in diameter and roughness, and density reduction of the composite filaments compared to pristine PLA. Furthermore, the filler promoted an increase in thermal stability, shore hardness, and the development of promising morphological characteristics for cell growth because the walls of the scaffolds are more robust and have more regular‐sized holes. The scaffold fabrication reinforced with 10% PULL presented high surface roughness (up to 1022% if compared with pristine PLA), and open pores can be confirmed successfully compared to pristine PLA. Thus, the use of PULL as a filler in a PLA matrix guarantees the development of composite scaffolds with improved morphological and hardness properties, which could allow the possibility of future research into the application of the proposed material (10% wt. PULL) as an ecologically correct and biocompatible alternative for application in tissue engineering.
Sputtered Zero‐Excess Electrodes with Metallic Seed Layers for Solid‐State Sodium Batteries
Authors: Lowack Ansgar , Grun Paula , Anton Rafael , Auer Henry , Nikolowski Kristian , Partsch Mareike , Kusnezoff Mihails , Michaelis Alexander
Published: October 2024

Zero‐excess sodium metal solid‐state batteries offer improved safety, lower cost, higher energy density, and reduced resource dependency compared to today's lithium‐ion technology. This study demonstrates the fabrication of zero‐excess electrodes with unprecedented stability during plating/stripping cycles. The fabrication process involves the sputter deposition of 20 nm metallic seed layers – zinc, silver, indium, or tin – onto NASICON (Na3.4Zr2Si2.4P0.6O12) ceramic separators, followed by the sputter deposition of a 30 μm copper current collector. The favorable influence of these seed layers on the in‐situ formation of the sodium|NASICON interface is examined through nucleation and cycling experiments, with a sodium metal reservoir serving as the non‐limiting counter electrode. Due to alloy formation the seed layers – particularly tin – stabilize sodium nucleation and cycling substantially and reduce dendrite formation compared to reference cells with bare copper current collectors. Sodium loss during cycling is primarily attributed to local cracking of the current collector and its partial delamination from the NASICON. Compared to polished NASICON, a roughened surface reduces the resistance e. g. of the counter electrode 200‐fold to approx. 1 Ωcm2 at 3 MPa and suppresses delamination further.
Beyond clinical trials: CDK4/6 inhibitor efficacy predictors and nomogram model from real‐world evidence in metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Liu Binliang , Hu Zhe‐Yu , Xie Ning , Liu Liping , Li Jing , Yang Xiaohong , Xiao Huawu , Zhao Xuran , Tian Can , Wu Hui , Lu Jun , Gao Jianxiang , Hu Xuming , Cao Min , Shui Zhengrong , Tang Yu , Ouyang Quchang
Published: October 2024

Background

CDK4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i) have shown promising results in the treatment of hormone receptor‐positive (HR+) metastatic breast cancer (MBC) when combined with endocrine therapy (ET). It is crucial to evaluate the actual effectiveness and safety of CDK4/6i in clinical practice, as well as to analyze the factors that can predict their outcomes.

Methods

Patients with HR+ MBC who received CDK4/6i‐based therapy between May 2016 and May 2023 at Hunan Cancer Hospital were evaluated for progression‐free survival (PFS). Adverse reactions were assessed based on the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria (version 5.0).

Results

This study included 344 patients, with a median PFS (mPFS) of 12.8 months (range: 10.4–15.2 months). After adjustment, Cox multivariate regression analysis revealed that visceral metastasis (specifically liver and brain metastases), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS) ≥ 1, estrogen receptor ≤ 80%, progesterone receptor ≤ 10%, Ki‐67 > 30%, and treatment in later stages were significant factors associated with reduced PFS. Based on this, we created a prognostic nomogram and validated its performance, obtaining a C‐index of 0.714 (95% confidence interval: 0.640–0.787) as well as reliable calibration and clinical impact. The mPFS of CDK4/6i rechallenge was 7.7 months; for patients who initially discontinued CDK4/6i for reasons other than disease progression, CDK4/6i rechallenge still provided a mPFS of 11.4 months. The tolerability and safety of combining CDK4/6is with ET were manageable. Adverse events led to treatment discontinuation in 3.8% of patients. Neutropenia (29.1%), leukopenia (13.7%), and anemia (4.1%) were the primary grade 3/4 adverse reactions.

Conclusions

This real‐world study highlights the ample efficacy and reasonable safety of combined CDK4/6i and ET in patients with HR+ MBC. Individualized treatment decisions and ongoing safety monitoring are important to optimize the therapeutic benefit of CDK4/6i treatment.
Ethnic and racialized disparities in the use of screening services for pap smears and mammograms in Canada
Authors: Salami Bukola O. , Kalenga Cindy Z. , Olukotun Mary , Renzaho Andre M. N. , Maduforo Aloysius Nwabugo , Serrano‐Lomelin Jesus A. , Tunde‐Byass Modupe , King Regine U. , Richter Solina , Ladha Tehseen , Senthilselvan Ambikaipakan , Bailey Paul , Ospina Maria B.
Published: October 2024

Background

Breast and cervical cancers pose significant health challenges for women globally, emphasizing the critical importance of effective screening programs for early detection. In Canada, despite the implementation of accessible healthcare systems, ethnic and racialized disparities in cancer screening persist. This study aims to assess ethnic and racialized disparities in breast and cervical cancer screening in Canada.

Methods

Using 2015–2019 data from the Canadian Community Health Survey, we analyzed women aged 18–70 in distinct ethnic and racial groups. The primary outcome was mammography or Papanicolaou test (pap smear). The secondary outcome was time since the last screening. We used weighted multivariable logistic regression to estimate the odds of having a pap smear or mammography across the ethnic and racialized groups, adjusted for relevant covariates. Results were reported as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

We included 14,628,067 women of which 72.5% were White, 8.4% Southeast Asian, 4.7% South Asian, 3.4% Indigenous, 2.7% Black, 2.0% West Asian, and 1.6% Latin American. In comparison with the White reference group, a higher odds ratio of not having a pap smear was estimated for the West Asian (5.63; CI 3.85, 8.23), South Asian (5.19; CI 3.79, 7.12), Southeast Asian (4.35; CI 3.46, 5.46), and Black groups (2.62; CI 1.82, 3.78). Disparities in mammography screening were found only for the Southeast Asian group with higher odds of not having screening (1.85; CI 1.15, 2.98) compared to the White reference group.

Conclusion

This study reveals significant disparities in pap smear and mammography screenings affecting various ethnic groups, particularly in West Asia, South Asian, and Black communities. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions, policies, and healthcare strategies to address these gaps and ensure equitable access to essential breast and cervical cancer prevention across all ethnicity.
Simultaneous diagnosis of adult‐onset Still's disease and lymphoma: A case report and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Bayala Yannick Laurent Tchenadoyo , Ouedraogo Issa , Mourfou Hervé Eric , Son Bakoubassé Aïssata , Yameogo Wendyam Nadège , Tinni Ismael Ayouba , Zabsonré Tiendrébéogo Wendlassida Joëlle Stéphanie , Ouedraogo Dieu‐Donné
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

Differentiating Adult‐Onset Still's Disease (AOSD) from lymphoma is challenging. A 23‐year‐old female presented with polyarthralgia, fever, rash, lymphadenopathy, and abnormal labs. She met AOSD criteria and was diagnosed with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma. Treatment led to improvement.

The differentiation between Adult‐onset Still's Disease (AOSD) and lymphoma remains challenging in our context. The Faustrel score facilitates the simultaneous diagnosis of these conditions. A 23‐year‐old woman presented with chronic polyarthralgia in a febrile context. A physical examination revealed peripheral joint syndrome, a maculopapular rash on the trunk, and peripheral lymphadenopathy. Laboratory tests showed neutrophils leukocytosis, hyperferritinemia, and a glycosylated ferritin fraction of 12%. A lymph node biopsy revealed a malignant non‐Hodgkin lymphoma, and the patient met the diagnostic criteria for AOSD according to Faustrel. She received corticosteroid therapy and four courses of Rituximab. After 6 months, clinical and biological improvements were noted. It is essential to consider the possibility of an association between atypical clinical presentations of lymphoma and AOSD.
A rare case of lumbar facet fracture‐dislocation and review of the literature
Authors: Wang Chien Chieh , Wu Tsung‐Mu , Chien Chi‐Sheng , Huang Chi‐Ming , Wong Kin Weng
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

Lumbar facet fracture‐dislocation is rare, often due to hyperflexion with rotational force. Abnormal scoliosis on radiography is a key sign, prompting further imaging. Facetectomy and laminectomy ensure safe reduction, while instrumented fusion is an effective surgical treatment.

Traumatic lumbar facet dislocation is an uncommon condition, particularly when unilateral lumbar facet dislocation is accompanied by a contralateral facet fracture. The patient had a locked facet joint at the left L4–L5, a fracture of the right superior articular process of L5 and a comminuted fracture at the peritrochanteric region of the right femur following a fall. Emergent operation was conducted, starting with open reduction and fixation for the right proximal femur, followed by posterior open reduction and posterolateral fusion with instrumentation, without interbody fusion, for the lumbar spine injury. The patient exhibited positive outcomes throughout the follow‐up. This article highlights the trauma mechanism of lumbar facet dislocation, emphasizing hyperflexion with rotational force. Abnormal local scoliosis is a distinctive imaging sign of facet joint dislocation. Facetectomy and laminectomy are recommended for safe reduction and instrumented fusion is considered a safe and effective surgical treatment for facet joint dislocation injuries.
Plant‐Based Anticancer Compounds With a Focus on Breast Cancer
Authors: Hasan‐Abad Amin Moradi , Atapour Amir , Sobhani‐Nasab Ali , Motedayyen Hossein , ArefNezhad Reza
Published: October 2024

Breast cancer is a common form of cancer among women characterized by the growth of malignant cells in the breast tissue. The most common treatments for this condition include chemotherapy, surgical intervention, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and biological therapy. The primary issues associated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy are their adverse events and significant financial burden among patients in underdeveloped countries. This highlights the need to explore and develop superior therapeutic options that are less detrimental and more economically efficient. Plants provide an abundant supply of innovative compounds and present a promising new avenue for investigating cancer. Plants and their derivations are undergoing a revolution due to their reduced toxicity, expediency, cost‐effectiveness, safety, and simplicity in comparison to conventional treatment methods. Natural products are considered promising candidates for the development of anticancer drugs, due perhaps to the diverse pleiotropic effects on target events. The effects of plant‐derived products are limited to cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unaffected. Identification of compounds with strong anticancer properties and development of plant‐based medications for cancer treatment might be crucial steps in breast cancer therapy. Although bioactive compounds have potent anticancer properties, they also have drawbacks that need to be resolved before their application in clinical trials and improved for the approved drugs. This study aims to give comprehensive information on known anticancer compounds, including their sources and molecular mechanisms of actions, along with opportunities and challenges in plant‐based anticancer therapies.
Risk Factors and Clinical Outcomes of Recurrence in Adult Ovarian Granulosa Cell Tumors
Authors: Golmohammadi Tavallaee Mansoureh , Hasanzadeh Mofrad Malihe , Yousefi Zohreh , Mottaghi Mansoureh , Homaei Shandiz Fatemeh , Davachi Behrouz , Hamidi Bahram , Farazestanian Marjaneh , Afzaljavan Fahimeh
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Granulosa cell tumors (GCTs) of the ovary are rare but clinically significant malignancies. Despite advances in treatment, recurrence has remained a substantial challenge. This study aimed to identify clinical outcomes and potential prognostic risk factors for recurrence in patients diagnosed with GCTs.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study, the ovarian cancer database of the gynecological tertiary referral cancer center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran, was searched from August 2012 to August 2023 to find GCT cases. Demographic, clinical, pathological, intervention‐related factors, follow‐up, and survival findings were meticulously collected. Data were analyzed using SPSS v 23.

Results

Ninety‐two patients with GCTs, including 86 AGCT and 6 JGCT subjects, were identified. Based on further analysis of AGCT patients, most patients were ages under 50 (58.1%), clinically presented pain (32.6%), and abnormal uterine bleeding (27.9%) as the most frequent symptoms. Stages IA (64.0%) and IC (20.9%) were common. Five‐year overall and progression‐free survival were 98.2% and 90.8%, respectively. With a median follow‐up time of 72 (0.0–180) months, disease recurrence was observed in 19 patients (23.9%), and five patients (5.4%) died of the disease. Stage IV was a hazard factor of recurrence (HR = 7.62, 95%CI (1.89–30.63); p = 0.004).

Conclusions

The present study provides valuable insights into the outcomes and potential risk factors for recurrence in ovarian AGCTs. It duplicates the importance of stage in the prognosis of AGCT patients and highlights the safety of fertility‐sparing surgery in stage I and the lack of need to administer chemotherapy in stage IC.
Corporate social responsibility and family firm performance: A meta‐analytic review
Authors: Oduro Stephen , Umar Rana Muhammad , De Massis Alfredo , Haylemariam Leul Girma
Published: October 2024

Although corporate social responsibility (CSR) has received considerable attention in family firms, empirical findings on the CSR/family firm performance nexus are mixed and inconsistent. This meta‐analytic review aims to clarify the mixed results by establishing the degree to which CSR influences family firm performance and to test the moderating effects of contextual and methodological factors. Integrating a sample of 85 studies published up to May 2023 with 152,265 observations and employing a psychometric meta‐analysis through bivariate and meta‐regression analyses, we find that the average effect of CSR on family firm performance is positive, though small (≤0.20). Our study further reveals that CSR is positively and significantly related to financial performance, innovation, reputation, and sustainability, but the impact on firm sustainability is the largest. Our moderation analysis shows that the relationship between CSR and family firm performance is moderated by contextual factors (i.e., family ownership concentration, firm size, stock exchange listing, culture, and rule of law) and methodological factors (i.e., publication type, data type, performance proxy, and study type). Theoretically, our study appears to be the foremost meta‐analytic review on the CSR/family firm performance relationship, as previous meta‐analyses have focused on the drivers of CSR in family firms. Practically, we demonstrate that family firms can leverage CSR as both a “failure‐prevention” strategy (i.e., survival strategy) and a “success‐inducing” strategy (competitive advantage).
Factors affecting the quality of accounting disclosures provided in the annual reports for Jordanian firms
Authors: Al‐Mohareb Manar , Gutiérrez Ponce Herenia , Chamizo González Julián
Published: October 2024

This study aims to cover the factors that affect Jordanian companies’ annual reports’ accounting disclosures within the country's regulatory framework. This study analyses the qualitative content of accounting disclosures in Jordanian service and manufacturing companies to ascertain whether Jordanian law affects the company's capacity to provide adequate disclosures to stakeholders and whether industry type affects disclosure quality. The content analysis results indicated that Jordanian firms are aware of the laws and regulations governing the preparation of annual reports. Still, corporate governance rules are insufficient. Furthermore, the results revealed that annual report preparers are committed to mandatory and voluntary but provide inadequate CSR disclosures. The findings showed that service firms outperform manufacturing companies in terms of paying attention to narrating events and taking action to reduce their impact. Multiple factors influence the quality of accounting disclosures in Jordan. As for a limitation, content analysis inherently involves some level of subjectivity in interpreting and coding data, which could introduce bias into the analysis. Nevertheless, conducting targeted studies on particular sectors within Jordan could yield valuable information regarding industry‐specific disclosure procedures and obstacles, which could be a future study.
Dynamic Reconstruction of Cu Catalyst Under Electrochemical NO Reduction to NH3
Authors: Cheon Seonjeong , Kim Beomseo , Kim Hyun‐Woo , Kim DongYeon , Han Jong‐In
Published: October 2024

The electrochemical reduction of nitric oxide (NO) to ammonia (NH3) offers a sustainable way of simultaneously treating the air pollutant and producing a useful chemical. Among catalyst candidates, Cu emerges as a stand‐out choice for its superb NH3 selectivity and production rate. However, a comprehensive study concerning its catalytic behavior in the NO reduction environment is still lacking. Here, we unravel the dynamic rearrangement of Cu catalysts during NO reduction: the emergence of a bundled nanowire structure dependent on the applied potential. This unique structure is closely linked to an enhancement in double‐layer capacitance, leading to a progressive increase in current density from 236 mA cm−2 by 20 % over 1 h, while maintaining a Faradaic efficiency of 95 % for NH3. Characterizations of Cu oxidation states suggest that the nanostructure results from the dissolution‐redeposition of Cu in the aqueous electrolyte, influenced by the interaction with NO or other reactive intermediates. This understanding contributes to the broader exploration of Cu‐based catalysts for sustainable and efficient NH3 synthesis from NO.
A Communication‐Free Master–Slave Control of Cascaded‐Type DC Microgrids With Nondispatchable Generations
Authors: Li Lang , Tian Peng , Zhou Ke , Yan Genglong
Published: October 2024

This paper addresses the challenge of integrating dispatchable and nondispatchable distributed generators (DGs) in cascaded‐type direct current (DC) microgrids and proposes a communication‐free master–slave control strategy. In the proposed method, all DGs are treated as voltage sources. A master dispatchable DG is primarily responsible for maintaining a constant DC voltage at the point of common coupling (PCC). The rest slave nondispatchable DGs adjust their output power based on a front maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controller. This communication‐free approach enhances system reliability and ease of implementation. Moreover, it ensures load voltage stability, providing a high‐quality power supply for users. Additionally, it enables nondispatchable DGs to achieve MPPT‐based output power and enables power curtailment operation. Subsequently, a small‐signal stability analysis confirms the efficacy of the proposed strategy. Finally, simulation and experiment results further validate its efficacy.
Geofence‐Based Boundary Violation Detection Algorithms in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Arora Parul , Deswal Suman
Published: October 2024

Geofence is a virtual boundary that helps in location‐based services. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) fly without a pilot, and geofence helps in regulating these vehicles and constraints a UAV to enter the boundary of other UAV. However, these have to go through many safety and security features like avoiding collision, complying within the restricted area, and organizing airspaces with high traffic. The UAVs need to be within the boundaries to avoid various damages to property and loss of lives. Geofences help to detect boundary violation of UAVs to a great extent. This study uses various mathematical algorithms to create geofences and detect boundary violation of UAVs. The existing methods, Delaunay triangulation and triangle weight characterization with adjacency, are implemented. The existing methods have high execution time as well as high standard deviation and low accuracy. Further, a novel method for boundary violation detection is proposed using a convex hull to create geofences. The results show that the proposed method improves the execution time by 59.23% and accuracy by 1.35%.