bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Entropy and Superstructure‐Stabilized Layered Oxide Cathodes for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yao Libing , Zou Peichao , Wang Chunyang , Jiang Jiahao , Ma Lu , Tan Sha , Beyer Kevin A. , Xu Feng , Hu Enyuan , Xin Huolin L.
Published: September 2022

Layered transition metal oxides are appealing cathodes for sodium‐ion batteries due to their overall advantages in energy density and cost. But their stabilities are usually compromised by the complicated phase transition and the oxygen redox, particularly when operating at high voltages, leading to poor structural stability and substantial capacity loss. Here an integrated strategy combing the high‐entropy design with the superlattice‐stabilization to extend the cycle life and enhance the rate capability of layered cathodes is reported. It is shown that the as‐prepared high‐entropy Na2/3Li1/6Fe1/6Co1/6Ni1/6Mn1/3O2 cathode enables a superlattice structure with Li/transition metal ordering and delivers excellent electrochemical performance that is not affected by the presence of phase transition and oxygen redox. It achieves a high reversible capacity (171.2 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C), a high energy density (531 Wh kg−1), extended cycling stability (89.3% capacity retention at 1 C for 90 cycles and 63.7% capacity retention at 5 C after 300 cycles), and excellent fast‐charging capability (78 mAh g−1 at 10 C). This strategy would inspire more rational designs that can be leveraged to improve the reliability of layered cathodes for secondary‐ion batteries.
An Organic Semiconductor Photoelectrochemical Tandem Cell for Solar Water Splitting
Authors: Zhang Dan , Cho Han‐Hee , Yum Jun‐Ho , Mensi Mounir , Sivula Kevin
Published: September 2022

Photoelectrochemical cells employing organic semiconductors (OS) are promising for solar‐to‐fuel conversion via water splitting. However, despite encouraging advances with the half reactions, complete overall water splitting remains a challenge. Herein, a robust organic photocathode operating in near‐neutral pH electrolyte by careful selections of a semiconducting polymer bulk heterojunction (BHJ) blend and organic charge‐selective layer is realized. The optimized photocathode produces a photocurrent density of >4 mA cm−2 at 0 V vs the reversible hydrogen electrode (VRHE) for solar water reduction with noticeable operational stability (retaining ≈90% of the initial performance over 6 h) at pH 9. Combining the optimized BHJ photocathode with a benchmark BHJ photoanode leads to the demonstration of a large‐area (2.4 cm2) organic photoelectrochemical tandem cell for complete solar water splitting, with a predicted solar‐to‐hydrogen (STH) conversion efficiency of 0.8%. Under unassisted two‐electrode operation (1 Sun illumination) a stabilized photocurrent of 0.6 mA and an STH of 0.3% are observed together with near unity Faradaic efficiency of H2 and O2 production.
Acceleration of thermal decomposition of molten nitrates by Cr in steel and promotion of this effect by halogens
Authors: Sun Ze , Luo Yuxin , Song Ping , Gao Xianyang
Published: September 2022

Molten salts have been widely studied as the most common heat storage medium for concentrated solar power (CSP) plants. However, most studies have focused on the corrosiveness of molten salts, while this study innovatively reveals the role of stainless steel in promoting the decomposition of molten salts and the mechanism by which the halogen ions accelerate this process. Considering commercial Solar Salt as an example, the thermal stability, composition, and thermophysical properties of Solar Salt adding Cl−, Br−, and I− after contacting different stainless steel were analyzed. The results showed that Cr was the main reason for the decomposition of the molten salt, and Cl−, Br−, and I−, all accelerated the decomposition. Meanwhile, different halogen ions promoted the decomposition of molten salts through different mechanisms: oxide layer destruction and chain oxidation.
Arsenic trioxide and Erlotinib loaded in RGD‐modified nanoliposomes for targeted combination delivery to PC3 and PANC‐1 cell lines
Authors: Khosravani Fatemeh , Mir Hamed , Mirzaei Ali , Kobarfard Farzad , Bardania Hassan , Hosseini Ebrahim
Published: September 2022

During the past few years, advances in drag delivery have provided many opportunities in the treatment of various diseases and cancer. Arsenic trioxide (ATO) and Erlotinib (Erlo) are two drugs, approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration to treat cancer, but their use is limited in terms of the toxicity of ATO and the low solubility of Erlo. This study aimed to prepare arginine‐glycine‐aspartic acid (RGD)‐decorated nanoliposomes (NLPs) containing Erlo and ATO (NLPs–ATO–Erlo–RGD) to increase the solubility and reduce the toxicity of Erlo and ATO for cancer treatment. The results of transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering showed that NLPs were synthesized uniformly, with spherical shape morphology and particle sizes between 140 and 160 nm. High‐performance liquid chromatography and ICP–MS results showed that about 90% of the drug was loaded in the NLPs. In comparison with NLPs–ATO–Erlo, NLPs–ATO–Erlo–RGD demonstrated considerable toxicity against the αvβ3 overexpressing PC3 cell line in the MTT experiment. It had no effect on the PANC‐1 cell line. In addition, apoptosis assays using Annexin V/PI demonstrated that NLPs–ATO–Erlo–RGD generated the highest apoptotic rates in PC3 cells when compared with NLPs–ATO–Erlo and the combination of free ATO and Erlo. Furthermore, treatment with NLPs–ATO–Erlo–RGD in (p < 0.05) PC3 cell line significantly reduced EGFR level. It is concluded NLPs–ATO–Erlo–RGD as a novel drug delivery system may be a promising platform for the treatment of cancer.
Breast cancer: an up‐to‐date review and future perspectives
Authors: Hong Ruoxi , Xu Binghe
Published: September 2022

Breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. The occurrence of breast cancer is associated with many risk factors, including genetic and hereditary predisposition. Breast cancers are highly heterogeneous. Treatment strategies for breast cancer vary by molecular features, including activation of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), hormonal receptors (estrogen receptor [ER] and progesterone receptor [PR]), gene mutations (e.g., mutations of breast cancer 1/2 [BRCA1/2] and phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate 3‐kinase catalytic subunit alpha [PIK3CA]) and markers of the immune microenvironment (e.g., tumor‐infiltrating lymphocyte [TIL] and programmed death‐ligand 1 [PD‐L1]). Early‐stage breast cancer is considered curable, for which local‐regional therapies (surgery and radiotherapy) are the cornerstone, with systemic therapy given before or after surgery when necessary. Preoperative or neoadjuvant therapy, including targeted drugs or immune checkpoint inhibitors, has become the standard of care for most early‐stage HER2‐positive and triple‐negative breast cancer, followed by risk‐adapted post‐surgical strategies. For ER‐positive early breast cancer, endocrine therapy for 5‐10 years is essential. Advanced breast cancer with distant metastases is currently considered incurable. Systemic therapies in this setting include endocrine therapy with targeted agents, such as CDK4/6 inhibitors and phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) inhibitors for hormone receptor‐positive disease, anti‐HER2 targeted therapy for HER2‐positive disease, poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase inhibitors for BRCA1/2 mutation carriers and immunotherapy currently for part of triple‐negative disease. Innovation technologies of precision medicine may guide individualized treatment escalation or de‐escalation in the future. In this review, we summarized the latest scientific information and discussed the future perspectives on breast cancer.
Cloudy with a chance of munchies: Assessing the impact of recreational marijuana legalization on obesity
Authors: March Raymond J. , Rayamajhee Veeshan , Furton Glenn L.
Published: September 2022

Obesity in the US arguably constitutes the most significant health epidemic over the past century. Recent legislative changes allowing for recreational marijuana use further create a need to better understand the relationship between marijuana use and health choices, leading to obesity. We examine this relationship by using a synthetic control approach to examine the impact of legalized recreational marijuana access on obesity rates by comparing Washington State to a synthetically constructed counterfactual. We find that recreational marijuana's introduction did not lead to increased obesity rates and may have led to decreases in obesity.
Correlation between radiologic and pathologic extranodal extension in HPV‐associated oropharyngeal cancer: Systematic review
Authors: Morey Tristan , Hodge John‐Charles , Stern Cindy , Krishnan Suren , Foreman Andrew
Published: September 2022

Pretreatment determination of extranodal extension (ENE) has significant clinical implications in human papillomavirus positive (HPV+) oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Unfortunately there is no gold‐standard imaging modality for radiological assessment of ENE in HPV+ OPSCC, leading to subjective assessments and complex decision making concerning ENE. A systematic review of diagnostic test accuracy was therefore undertaken, with five databases systemically searched to evaluate the diagnostic performance of an imaging modality for detection of ENE in HPV+ OPSCC. A meta‐analysis was conducted on four CT studies using a random‐effects model. While a narrative synthesis was provided for the studies using PET/CT and “CT and MRI.” Out of 1772 hits, six studies were included in the review. Meta‐analysis on four CT studies showed CT had an overall sensitivity of 77% and specificity of 60%. PET/CT had a sensitivity of 37.5% and specificity of 97%. “CT and MRI” had a sensitivity of 62% and specificity of 78%. Further diagnostic studies involving CT, PET/CT and MRI are ultimately required.
‘You have to have a level of trust’: Consumer‐described health literacy barriers and enablers to engaging with health care professionals
Authors: Wood Helen , Benino Diana , Brand Gabrielle , Clifford Rhonda , Lee Kenneth , Seubert Liza
Published: September 2022

Issue Addressed

Health literacy – the degree to which people can access, understand and use health information – is essential for shared decision‐making and improved health outcomes. Health consumers' ability to engage with health care professionals (HCPs) is influenced by their health literacy capabilities. This research sought to understand health literacy‐related barriers and enablers to engage with non‐physician HCPs as experienced by consumers.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive approach was undertaken. A semi‐structured interview guide was used, incorporating five health literacy domains described in the Health Literacy Questionnaire that related to consumers' engagement with health professionals. Audio‐ or digitally‐recorded interviews were conducted with Australian health consumers, and transcribed and themed using the Patient‐centred Access to Care framework as a template.

Results

Interviewing 30 consumers revealed that HCPs' clinical skills often enabled consumers to seek engagement; however, during active engagement their interpersonal skills became a key enabler. Conversely, a lack of developed interpersonal skills in HCPs was frequently seen as a barrier to consumer engagement. Barriers to engagement were also created when HCPs' information did not match what consumers discovered from other sources. However, consumers self‐reported that they were unable to appraise health information at least some of the time.

Conclusion

Barriers and enablers to consumers' engagement with HCPs were identified across each of the five relevant health literacy domains.

So What?

HCPs should be aware of the importance of interpersonal skills and clear health information suitable for consumers with lower health literacy. Additionally, time dedicated to educating consumers on information appraisal could act as a further enabler to effective engagement.
Electrospun nanofiber mesh with connective tissue growth factor and mesenchymal stem cells for pelvic floor repair: Long‐term study
Authors: Laursen Sofie Husted , Hansen Signe Gellert , Taskin Mehmet Berat , Chen Menglin , Wogensen Lise , Nygaard Jens Vinge , Axelsen Susanne Maigaard
Published: September 2022

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) affects many women, with an estimated lifetime risk of surgical intervention of 18.7%. There is a need for alternative approaches as the use of synthetic nondegradable mesh was stopped due to severe adverse events, and as current methods for pelvic floor repair have high POP recurrence rates. Thus, we hypothesized that electrospun degradable meshes with stem cells and growth factor were safe and durable for the long term in elderly rats. In an abdominal repair model, electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) meshes coated with connective tissue growth factor (CTGF)/PEG‐fibrinogen (PF) and rat mesenchymal stem cells were implanted in elderly female rats and removed after in average 53 weeks (53‐week group). Collagen amount and production were quantified by qPCR and Western blotting. Moreover, histological appearance and biomechanical properties were evaluated. Results were compared with previous results of young rats with identical mesh implanted for 24 weeks (24‐week group). The 53‐week group differed from the 24‐week group in terms of (1) reduced collagen III, (2) strong reduction in foreign body response, and (3) altered histological appearance. We found comparable biomechanical properties, aside from higher, not significant, mean tissue stiffness in the 53‐week group. Lastly, we identified mesh components 53 weeks after implantation. This study provides new insights into future POP repair in postmenopausal women by showing how CTGF/PF‐coated electrospun PCL meshes with stem cells exhibit sufficient support, biocompatibility, and no mesh‐related complications long term in an abdominal repair model in elderly rats.
HemoScreen hematology analyzer compared to Sysmex XN for complete blood count, white blood cell differential, and detection of leukocyte abnormalities
Authors: Linko‐Parvinen Anna‐Maria , Keränen Kristiina , Kurvinen Kaisa , Tienhaara Anri
Published: September 2022

We compared a point‐of‐care HemoScreen hematology analyzer to an automated Sysmex XN analyzer for complete blood count (CBC) and white blood cell (WBC) differential, and evaluated its capacity to detect leukocyte abnormalities. A total of 100 K2‐EDTA whole blood samples, median age 56 years (2 months to 92 years), were compared. For CBC and WBC differential we compared 74 samples with no confirmed abnormal leukocytes. For 26 samples both analyzers gave flagging regarding leukocytes and the accuracy of the flagging was compared. Abnormal leukocytes were confirmed with manual microscopy (200 cells). HemoScreen CBC and WBC differential were highly comparable to Sysmex XN for most of the essential parameters (r = 0.909–0.975). More variation was seen for basophil and monocyte counts (r = 0.452 and 0.753, respectively). Sysmex XN gave more false WBC abnormal flagging (n = 15 altogether) compared to HemoScreen. In addition, Sysmex XN, as well as HemoScreen, gave false WBC flagging for eight samples confirmed normal. The samples verified by microscopy review to truly contain leukocyte abnormalities (n = 18) were flagged abnormal with both analyzers. The specificity for analyzer flagging was 72% and 88% for Sysmex XN and HemoScreen, respectively. HemoScreen hematology analyzer is essentially comparable to Sysmex XN for CBC and WBC differential analysis. Most importantly, HemoScreen detected all the samples confirmed to include abnormal leukocytes. HemoScreen was less prone for false WBC flagging compared to Sysmex XN, thereafter requiring less microscopy review. These abilities increase its utility in small health care units. Studies with a larger number of abnormal leukocyte samples are needed to confirm HemoScreen performance.
An Ex Vivo Model of Posterior Tracheomalacia With Evaluation of Potential Treatment Modalities
Authors: Cao Angela , Swami Pooja , Kaye Rachel , Goldstein Todd , Grande Daniel A. , Smith Lee P.
Published: September 2022

Objective

Posterior tracheomalacia (TM) is characterized by excessive intraluminal displacement of the tracheal membranous wall. Recently, novel surgical strategies for repair of posterior TM have been introduced. To our knowledge, these strategies have not been evaluated in a model of posterior TM. Thus, we sought to design an ex vivo mechanical model of posterior TM to evaluate potential repair interventions.

Methods

A model for posterior TM was created with partial thickness longitudinal incisions to the posterior aspect of ex vivo porcine trachea. Three groups of tracheas were tested: (1) control (unmanipulated), (2) posterior TM (injury), and (3) intervention (repair). Interventions included external splinting with 0.3 and 0.5 mm bioresorbable plates, posterior tracheopexy, and injection tracheoplasty with calcium hydroxylapatite. An airtight tracheal system was created to measure tracheal wall collapse with changes in negative pressure. A bronchoscope and pressure transducer were connected to either end. Cross‐sectional area of the tracheal lumen was analyzed using ImageJ software (National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD).

Results

Average percent reduction in cross‐sectional area of the tracheal lumen was compared using a two‐tailed paired t‐test. Significant differences were found between control and TM groups (p < 0.019). There was no significant difference between control and external splinting and posterior tracheopexy groups (p > 0.14).

Conclusion

We describe an ex vivo model for posterior TM that replicates airway collapse. External splinting and tracheopexy interventions showed recovery of the injured tracheal segment. Injection tracheoplasty did not improve the TM.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 133:2000–2006, 2023
Overlap of On‐demand Ultra‐large Combinatorial Spaces with On‐the‐shelf Drug‐like Libraries
Authors: Perebyinis Mariana , Rognan Didier
Published: September 2022

On‐demand combinatorial spaces are shifting paradigms in early drug discovery, by considerably increasing the searchable chemical space to several billions of compounds while securing their synthetic accessibility. We here systematically compared the on‐the‐shelf available drug‐like chemical space (9 million compounds) to three on‐demand ultra‐large (ODUL) combinatorial fragment spaces (REAL, CHEMriya, GalaXi) covering 32 billion of readily accessible molecules. Surprisingly, only one space (REAL) intersects almost entirely the currently available drug‐like space, suggesting that it is the only ODUL widely suitable for in‐stock hit expansion. Of course, expanding a preliminary ODUL hit in the same chemical space is the best possible strategy to rapidly generate structure‐activity relationships. All three spaces remain well suited to early hit finding initiatives since they all provide numerous unique scaffolds that are not described by on‐the shelf collections.
Gastrointestinal and sensory manifestations, nutrition management, and energy‐protein intake in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Torrinhas Raquel Susana , Ribeiro Paulo César , Syagha Yassmin , Coradelli Anna Carolina Pompermayer , Miguel Bianca Zanchetta Buani , Freire Thaís Nunes , da Silva Marli Alves Ramelho , Ruotolo Fabiana , de Almeida Daniela Hummel , Buzato Janayna Nayara , e Silva Henrique Oliveira , Martinez Ana Cristina , Dias Maria Carolina Gonçalves , Waitzberg Dan Linetzky
Published: September 2022

Background

Gastrointestinal and sensory manifestations (GSMs) of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) may affect food intake, resulting in malnutrition and poor outcomes. We characterized the impact of GSMs and oral nutrition supplementation on energy‐protein intake (EPI) and hospital discharge in adult patients with COVID‐19.

Methods

Patients from two hospitals were enrolled (n = 357). We recorded the presence and type of GSM at admission, estimated energy requirements (EER) and the EPI based on regular food intake (plate diagram sheets) during hospital stays. Patients not achieving 60% of their EER from food over 2 consecutive days received oral nutrition supplementation (ONS) with a high‐energy‐protein oral drink.

Results

Most patients (63.6%) presented with GSMs at admission. Anorexia was the most common manifestation (44%). Patients with anorexia or more than one GSMs were more likely to not achieve 60% EER on the first day of follow‐up and to require the ONS intervention (P ≤ 0.050). Prevalence of at least one GSM was higher in patients who did not achieve hospital discharge than in patients who achieved it (74.2% vs 54.6%, P = 0.038). The patients requiring ONS (26.9%) demonstrated good adherence to the intervention (79.3%), achieved their EER during 95.7% of the supplementation time, and presented with hospital discharge rates similar to patients not requiring ONS (92.2% vs 91.9%, respectively; P = 1.000).

Conclusions

GSM were prevalent in COVID‐19 and it impaired EER attendance and patient recovery. ONS was well‐tolerated, aided EER attendance, and potentially facilitated hospital discharge.
Error bounds of fourth‐order compact finite difference methods for the Dirac equation in the massless and nonrelativistic regime
Authors: Feng Yue , Ma Ying
Published: September 2022

We establish the error bounds of fourth‐order compact finite difference (4cFD) methods for the Dirac equation in the massless and nonrelativistic regime, which involves a small dimensionless parameter inversely proportional to the speed of light. In this regime, the solution propagates waves with wavelength in time and in space, as well as with the wave speed rapid outgoing waves. We adapt the conservative and semi‐implicit 4cFD methods to discretize the Dirac equation and rigorously carry out their error bounds depending explicitly on the mesh size , time step and the small parameter . Based on the error bounds, the ε‐scalability of the 4cFD methods is and , which not only improves the spatial resolution capacity but also has superior accuracy than classical second‐order finite difference methods. Furthermore, physical observables including the total density and current density have the same conclusions. Numerical results are provided to validate the error bounds and the dynamics of the Dirac equation with different potentials in two dimensions is presented.
Highly flexible, durable, UV resistant, and electrically conductive graphene based TPU/textile composite sensor
Authors: Zhou Yi , Stewart Rebecca
Published: September 2022

Flexible strain sensors have attracted considerable attention due to their applications in wearable monitoring fields such as human‐computer interaction systems, athletic training, and health systems. Textiles are a desired substrate for fabricating wearable flexible sensors due to their light weight, comfort, and flexibility. However, the compatibility between textiles and conductive materials still faces critical challenges, especially for wearable sensors to achieve high sensitivity and a wide sensing range simultaneously with long‐term monitoring stability, reliability, and wearing comfort. In this study, we propose a graphene‐based TPU/textile composite sensor that can be produced using small‐scale manufacturing techniques, using laser cutting combined with film coating and thermal transfer processes and further explore its mechanical, electrical, and sensing properties. Since the human body exhibits different magnitudes of motion and fabric sensors integrated into clothing would face multiple challenges in real world usage e.g. repetitive wear, sweat and sunlight exposure, we performed sensitivity, reliability and durability tests to further evaluate real world usage of the fabric sensors. The developed composite sensor exhibits a high sensitivity (GF = 498), wide sensing range (0%–293%), excellent reliability and stability which only shows 5% deviation after 10,000 cycles of stretching under 5% strain. In addition, the graphene‐based textile composite sensor thermalised by TPU film can also maintain high stability after long‐term UV irradiation and multiple washing cycles. When integrated into various wearable devices, our composite sensor can detect a wide range of human body motions accurately, as well as subtle physiological signals, exhibiting great potential in incorporating into wearable monitoring devices.
Evaluating awareness, knowledge and practice of healthcare professionals following implementation of a revised pregnancy prevention programme for isotretinoin in Ireland: A multi‐stakeholder cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hughes John E. , Buckley Niamh , Looney Yvonne , Kirwan Gráinne , Mullooly Maeve , Bennett Kathleen E.
Published: September 2022

Purpose

In 2018, following an EU‐wide safety review, a revised pregnancy prevention programme (PPP) was introduced for isotretinoin (Roaccutane®). This study aimed to examine awareness, knowledge, and experience implementing the revised isotretinoin PPP in clinical practice across three healthcare professional (HCP) groups in Ireland.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study using anonymous online surveys among general practitioners (GPs), community pharmacists, and specialist consultants was undertaken. Descriptive analyses are presented.

Results

Across all HCP groups there was high (≥87%) awareness that oral isotretinoin is contraindicated in women of childbearing potential (WCBP) unless the conditions of the PPP are fulfilled, but varying awareness among GPs (54.9%) and community pharmacists (45.9%) that exposure during pregnancy can cause both severe fetal malformations and spontaneous abortions. Implementation of the PPP in clinical practice varied across HCP groups. When initiating isotretinoin in WCBP, 66.7% of specialists and 40.8% of GPs indicated they had considered alternative treatment options, and 71.4% of specialists and 31.6% of GPs reported they first requested a pregnancy test. There was limited provision of the patient reminder card to WCBP, where 26.1% of community pharmacists provide this at each dispensing, while 47.6% of specialists and 11.8% of GPs ensured WCBP had a copy of the card when initiating treatment. Across all HCP groups, there was high (≥81.6%) awareness of the need for urgent consultation and immediate cessation of isotretinoin in the event of an unplanned or suspected pregnancy.

Conclusions

Reinforcement of the provision and utilisation of the isotretinoin patient reminder card may be required, and further targeted education on specific elements of the PPP should be considered for GPs and community pharmacists.
Reversal of apixaban and rivaroxaban with andexanet alfa prior to invasive or surgical procedures
Authors: Bradshaw Paige Garber , Keegan Shaun Patrick , Droege Molly Elizabeth , Dykes Nicole Jade Harger , Ernst Neil Edward , Foertsch Madeline Jane , Makley Amy Teres , Mueller Eric William , Philpott Carolyn Dosen , Srinivasan Vasisht , Winter Jessica Brooke , Goodman Michael D. , Droege Christopher Allen
Published: September 2022

Background

Outcomes following andexanet alfa reversal of factor Xa inhibitors in patients requiring urgent or emergent invasive procedures are lacking. This study aimed to describe efficacy and safety outcomes following andexanet alfa administration within 24 h of an invasive procedure.

Methods

This single‐center, observational, retrospective study included patients who received andexanet alfa within 24 h of an invasive or surgical procedure. The primary outcome was hemostatic efficacy graded as excellent, good, or poor using similar definitions to the ANNEXA‐4 criteria. Secondary outcomes included hospital discharge disposition, intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital length of stay, 30‐day mortality, 30‐day thromboischemic event rates, and serum coagulation assay changes pre‐ and postreversal.

Results

Forty‐four patients met inclusion criteria; of these, 27 (62.8%) received apixaban and 16 (37.2%) were treated with rivaroxaban prior to admission. The indications for reversal were categorized as intracranial (n = 20 [45.5%]) or extracranial (n = 24 [54.5%]) sites. Majority of patients required emergent operative procedures (18 [40.9%]), followed by invasive device placement (10 [22.7%]) or arterial embolization (9 [20.5%]). Thirty‐eight (86.4%) patients were able to be adequately graded for hemostatic efficacy. Overall, 30 (78.9%) patients achieved excellent or good hemostasis within 24 h after periprocedural administration of andexanet alfa (19 [82.6%] apixaban vs. 11 [78.6%] rivaroxaban; 12 [80.0%] intracranial events vs. 18 [78.3%] extracranial events). Discharge disposition was most often to a short‐ or long‐term care facilities (27 [61.4%]). Thirty‐day mortality and thromboischemic complications occurred in 15 (34.1%) and 12 (27.3%) patients, respectively. Prothrombin time and antifactor Xa assay results were significantly decreased after andexanet alfa administration (p < 0.05) while thromboelastogram assay values (reaction time, kinetic time, and activated clotting time) showed nonsignificant changes pre‐ versus postreversal.

Conclusion

Andexanet alfa may be used for urgent or emergent reversal of apixaban and rivaroxaban peri‐procedurally with promising hemostatic outcomes. Further prospective, comparative clinical research is warranted.
Improved toughening diamine‐based polybenzoxazines constructed by controllable curing in polyhexahydrotriazine interpenetrating polymer networks
Authors: Xu Yi , Li Zhengbai , Zhu Keqi , Sun Xinyue , Liu Yujia , Xiong Shenghua , Wu Yi , Yang Yunyun
Published: September 2022

A series of diamine‐based polybenzoxazine (PDMB)/polyhexahydrotriazine (PHT) interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) were successfully prepared by sequential polymerization. For the IPN structures, the mechanical and thermal properties were explored. Fourier transform infrared spectrometric studies provide evidence of intermolecular hydrogen bonding (OH…O) between PDMB and PHT, and the compatibility of these two polymers was enhanced by this hydrogen bonding. The homogeneous structures in the PDMB/PHT IPNs with a micro‐level phase separation were observed from scanning electron microscope analysis. PDMB, however, is too fragile to form a film. Compared to pure PHT, PDMB/PHT IPNs exhibit 190% higher tensile strength and 284% higher elongation. PDMB/PHT‐0.8 reaches an elongation at break of 12.40% and tensile strength of 118.67 MPa, showing better mechanical properties than the other PDMB/PHT IPNs. Results of dynamic thermomechanical analysis indicate a higher heat resistance for PDMB/PHT‐0.8, and its glass transition temperature reached 238 °C. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Rapid and sensitive on‐site genetic diagnostics of pest fruit flies using CRISPR‐Cas12a
Authors: Alon Dan Mark , Partosh Tamir , Burstein David , Pines Gur
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Bactrocera zonata, a major fruit pest species, is gradually spreading west from its native habitat in East Asia. In recent years it has become a significant threat to the Mediterranean area, with the potential of invading Europe, the Americas, and Australia. To prevent it spreading, monitoring efforts in cultivation sites and border controls are carried out. Despite these efforts, and due to morphological similarities between B. zonata and other pests in relevant developmental stages, the monitoring process is challenging, time‐consuming, and requires external assistance from professional laboratories. CRISPR‐Cas12a genetic diagnostics has been rapidly developing in recent years and provides an efficient tool for the genetic identification of pathogens, viruses, and other genetic targets. Here we design a CRISPR‐Cas12a detection assay that differentially detects two major pest species, B. zonata and Ceratitis capitata.

RESULTS

We demonstrate the specificity and high sensitivity of this method. Identification of target pests was done using specific and universal primers on pooled samples, enabling differentiation of pests with high certainty. We also demonstrate reaction stability over time for future on‐site applications.

DISCUSSION

Our easy‐to‐use and affordable assay employs a simple DNA extraction technique together with isothermal amplification and Cas12a‐based detection. This method is highly modular, and the presented target design method can be applied to a wide array of pests. This approach can be easily adapted to fit local threats and requires minimal training of operators in border controls and other relevant locations, reshaping pest control and making state‐of‐the‐art technologies available worldwide, including in developing countries. © 2022 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Highly Fluorinated Peptide Probes with Enhanced In Vivo Stability for 19F‐MRI
Authors: Meng Beibei , Grage Stephan L. , Babii Oleg , Takamiya Masanari , MacKinnon Neil , Schober Tim , Hutskalov Illia , Nassar Omar , Afonin Sergii , Koniev Serhii , Komarov Igor V. , Korvink Jan G. , Strähle Uwe , Ulrich Anne S.
Published: September 2022

A labeling strategy for in vivo 19F‐MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) based on highly fluorinated, short hydrophilic peptide probes, is developed. As dual‐purpose probes, they are functionalized further by a fluorophore and an alkyne moiety for bioconjugation. High fluorination is achieved by three perfluoro‐tert‐butyl groups, introduced into asparagine analogues by chemically stable amide bond linkages. d‐amino acids and β‐alanine in the sequences endow the peptide probes with low cytotoxicity and high serum stability. This design also yielded unstructured peptides, rendering all 27 19F substitutions chemically equivalent, giving rise to a single 19F‐NMR resonance with <10 Hz linewidth. The resulting performance in 19F‐MRI is demonstrated for six different peptide probes. Using fluorescence microscopy, these probes are found to exhibit high stability and long circulation times in living zebrafish embryos. Furthermore, the probes can be conjugated to bovine serum albumin with only amoderate increase in 19F‐NMR linewidth to ≈30 Hz. Overall, these peptide probes are hence suitable for in vivo 19F‐MRI applications.
Constructing Hypoxia‐Tolerant and Host Tumor‐Enriched Aggregation‐Induced Emission Photosensitizer for Suppressing Malignant Tumors Relapse and Metastasis
Authors: Cui Shisheng , Dai Shuangxiong , Lin Na , Wu Xinghui , Shi Jianbing , Tong Bin , Liu Pai , Cai Zhengxu , Dong Yuping
Published: September 2022

Photodynamic immunotherapy is a promising treatment strategy that destroys primary tumors and inhibits the metastasis and relapse of distant tumors. As reactive oxygen species are an intermediary for triggering immune responses, photosensitizers (PSs) that can actively target and efficiently trigger oxidative stress are urgently required. Herein, pyrrolo[3,2‐b]pyrrole as an electronic donor is introduced in acceptor–donor–acceptor skeleton PSs (TP‐IS1 and TP‐IS2) with aggregation‐induced emission properties and high absorptivity. Meanwhile, pyrrolo[3,2‐b]pyrrole derivatives innovatively prove their ability of type I photoreaction, indicating their promising hypoxia‐tolerant advantages. Moreover, M1 macrophages depicting an ultrafast delivery through the cell‐to‐cell tunneling nanotube pathway emerge to construct TP‐IS1@M1 by coating the photosensitizer TP‐IS1. Under low concentration of TP‐IS1@M1, an effective immune response of TP‐IS1@M1 is demonstrated by releasing damage‐associated molecular patterns, maturating dendritic cells, and vanishing the distant tumor. These findings reveal insights into developing hypoxia‐tolerant PSs and an efficient delivery method with unprecedented performance against tumor metastasis.
Green synthesized nickel doped cobalt ferrite nanoparticles exhibit antibacterial activity and induce reactive oxygen species mediated apoptosis in MCF‐7 breast cancer cells through inhibition of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway
Authors: Sundram Sobana , Baskar Suganya , Subramanian Alagumanian
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to synthesize the nickel (Ni) doped cobalt ferrite (CFO) nanoparticles and to determine its anticancer effect on breast cancer MCF‐7 cells. The various concentrations of Ni (0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%, and 1%) doped CFO nanoparticles were synthesized using Coriandrum sativum extracts by precipitation technique. The synthesized Ni‐CFO was characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic, transmission electron microscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometer analyses. The results show that 0.8% Ni‐CFO nanoparticles showed good magnetic properties and antioxidant activity than other concentrations of Ni‐CFO. The results showed that the administration of 0.8% Ni‐CFO nanoparticles promoted apoptosis, and reduced cell adhesion and migration of MCF‐7 cells, as demonstrated by increased lipid peroxidation, decreased antioxidant levels such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, and increased formation of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, administration of 0.8% Ni‐CFO nanoparticles decreased the Bcl‐2 expression while activating the expression of p53, Bax, and cleaved caspase 3, 8 and 9 protein expression. Notably, 0.8% Ni‐CFO treatment reduced phospho‐PI3K, phospho‐Akt, and phospho‐mTOR expression levels. As a result, via altering apoptotic related proteins, 0.8% Ni‐CFO induced cell death. Therefore, the 0.8% Ni‐CFO could be utilized to treat breast cancer.
A mobile‐organic biofilm process for wastewater treatment
Authors: Boltz Joshua P. , Daigger Glen T.
Published: September 2022

The mobile‐organic biofilm (MOB) process includes mobile biofilms and their retention screens with a bioreactor and liquid and solid separation. The MOB process is inexpensive and easy to integrate with wastewater treatment (WWT) processes, and it provides for high‐rate WWT in biofilm or hybrid bioreactors. This paper describes three modes of MOB process operation. The first mode of operation, Mode I, has a mobile‐biofilm reactor and a mobile‐biofilm retention screen that is downstream of and external to a bioreactor and upstream of liquid and solid separation. Modes II and III have a hybrid (i.e., mobile biofilms and accumulated suspended biomass) bioreactor and liquid and solid separation. Mode II includes a mobile‐biofilm retention screen that is downstream of and external to a hybrid bioreactor and upstream of liquid and solid separation. Mode III includes mobile‐biofilm retention screening that is external to a hybrid bioreactor and liquid and solid separation, receives waste solids, and relies on environmental conditions and wastewater characteristics that are favorable for aerobic‐granular sludge formation. This paper presents a mechanistic approach to design and evaluate MOB processes and describes MOB process: (1) modes of operation, (2) design and analysis methodology, (3) process and mechanical design criteria, (4) mathematical modeling, (5) design equations, and (6) mobile‐biofilm settling characteristics and return. A mathematical model was applied to describe a fixed bioreactor volume and secondary‐clarifier area with Modes I, II, and III. The mathematical modeling identified key differences between MOB process modes of operation, which are described in this paper.

Practitioner Points

MOB is a municipal and industrial wastewater treatment (WWT) process that reduces bioreactor and liquid and solids separation process volumes. It may operate with a mobile‐biofilm reactor or a hybrid (mobile biofilms and suspended biomass) bioreactor.

This paper provides a mechanistic basis for the selection and design of a MOB process mode of operation, and it describes MOB process modes of operation, design criteria, design equations, mathematical modeling, and mobile‐biofilm settling characteristics.

MOB integrated WWT plants exist at full scale and reliably meet their treatment objectives. The MOB process is an emerging environmental biotechnology for cost‐effective WWT.
Adverse childhood experiences and mental health problems in a nationally representative study of heterosexual, homosexual and bisexual Danes
Authors: Andresen Josefine Bernhard , Graugaard Christian , Andersson Mikael , Bahnsen Mikkel Kjær , Frisch Morten
Published: September 2022

Non‐heterosexual persons more often report adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) than heterosexuals, and they generally bear a greater burden of mental health challenges. However, population‐based data on this topic are scarce. In a nationally representative study within the Project SEXUS, one of the world's largest cohort studies on sexual health, we used data from 57,479 individuals in Denmark to explore the interplay between ACEs and mental health problems among self‐identified heterosexual, homosexual and bisexual persons, and among self‐identified heterosexuals with or without same‐sex sexual experience. Compared to heterosexuals, non‐heterosexual persons were more likely to report most of the studied ACEs, with odds ratios (ORs) for the ACE category “abuse” ranging from 1.38 to 1.75 for homosexual women, from 1.76 to 2.65 for homosexual men, from 2.52 to 3.64 for bisexual women, and from 1.58 to 6.07 for bisexual men. Furthermore, non‐heterosexual persons had consistently and statistically significantly higher odds for mental health problems (ORs: 1.50 to 4.63). Combinations of ACEs with a non‐heterosexual identity resulted in markedly elevated odds for mental health problems, particularly among bisexual individuals. This included high odds for suicidal thoughts/attempts among bisexual persons with a history of “neglect” (women: OR=12.82; men: OR=35.24) and “abuse” (women: OR=11.81; men: OR=11.65). Among self‐identified heterosexuals, combinations of ACEs with same‐sex sexual experience were associated with consistently elevated odds for mental health problems (ORs: 2.22 to 12.04). The greater burden of ACEs among self‐identified homosexuals and, most notably, bisexuals may account for part of their excess risk of mental health problems. These findings emphasize the public health importance of preventive measures to minimize the burden of ACEs and avert their harmful long‐term effects. Moreover, they highlight the need to safeguard the welfare of children and adolescents with non‐conforming expressions of sexuality.
The Open Data Kit Project
Authors: Brunette Waylon , Hartung Carl
Published: September 2022

This chapter presents the Open Data Kit (ODK) project’s design, challenges, development, and evolution of configurable software frameworks and their international development impacts. The ODK project created a suite of mobile data collection tools designed to help organizations working in resource-constrained contexts collect, aggregate, and analyze data. ODK mobile tools are designed to maintain their functionality in locations with limited, intermittent, or no Internet connectivity. While the first set of ODK tools has experienced wide adoption with millions of users collecting data, its primary use case of unidirectional data flowing from the field to a central repository could not be adapted to certain use cases. To broaden the scope of potential applications, a second generation of tools was developed that added support for bidirectional data management applications. This chapter discusses the iterative research and development process of the ODK project.
Asking the “Right” Questions
Authors: Madon Temina , Toyama Kentaro
Published: September 2022

In any problem-solving endeavor, identifying the right problem and asking the right questions is at least half the challenge. A well-posed problem can suggest an obvious, effective solution, while a poorly chosen problem can lead to dead-end non-solutions that leave no one better off. In this chapter, we consider important questions that should be asked with respect to potential beneficiaries or collaborators, the larger context of a problem, the type of impact, approaches to scale, and ethical considerations.
Expanding Access to Electricity in Kenya
Authors: Lee Kenneth
Published: September 2022

This case study tells the story behind a research project on the economics of rural electrification in Western Kenya. The chapter covers (1) aspects of the policy and technology environment that initially guided the course of the work; (2) how the project pivoted away from solar microgrids and focused instead on the expansion of the national electricity grid; (3) unexpected challenges encountered while implementing a randomized evaluation of electricity infrastructure; (4) how we interpreted the study findings in light of consequential, concurrent changes to Kenya’s electrification policies; and (5) possible directions for further research, motivated by our project experience.
Measuring Grid Reliability in Ghana
Authors: Klugman Noah , Adkins Joshua , Berkouwer Susanna , Abrokwah Kwame , Podolsky Matthew , Pannuto Pat , Wolfram Catherine , Taneja Jay , Dutta Prabal
Published: September 2022

What challenges arise when deploying a novel technology at increasing scale? This case study details our experience developing and deploying technologies to monitor power outages and voltage fluctuations at high temporal and geographic frequency. After a small initial pilot, our deployment grew over time and eventually exceeded 450 sensors and 3500 mobile app downloads with households and firms across Accra, Ghana. Our first lesson is that ad hoc solutions to deployment challenges may not scale, as larger scales bring unique challenges requiring unique and progressively more complex solutions. Second, challenges that arise with scale span distinct domains – not only technological but also cultural, organizational, and operational. Finally, we stress the importance of adaptability of operational structure, and of frequently updating operational strategy based on new learnings.
Digital Agricultural Extension for Development
Authors: Fabregas Raissa , Harigaya Tomoko , Kremer Michael , Ramrattan Ravindra
Published: September 2022

Providing information at scale about improved agricultural practices to smallholder farmers remains a challenge in most developing countries. Traditional dissemination methods like in-person meetings or radio programming can be costly to scale or offer too generic information. Moreover, while most agronomic recommendations focus on maximizing crop yields, farmers weigh multiple other factors when making farming decisions, such as the profitability of investments and risks. The proliferation of mobile phones has shifted these trends. Mobile agriculture extension can cost-effectively provide tailored suggestions to farmers and improve their use of information. This case study describes the use of digital extension technologies to support farmers in a number of contexts. We draw insights from various studies and the experience of Precision Development on the importance of human-centered design, monitoring, and continuous experimentation. The chapter also discusses the ecosystem of stakeholders for digital agriculture, concerns relating to privacy and financing, and how mobile services can be used to facilitate social learning.
Data Spaces: Design, Deployment, and Future Directions
Authors: Curry Edward , Scerri Simon , Tuikka Tuomo
Published: September 2022

Digital transformation, data ecosystems, and Data Spaces are inevitable parts of our future. The book aims to educate the reader on data sharing and exchange techniques using Data Spaces. It will address and explore the cutting-edge theory, technologies, methodologies, and best practices for Data Spaces for both industrial and personal data. The book provides the reader with a basis for understanding the scientific foundation of Data Spaces, how they can be designed and deployed, and future directions.