bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial and temporal variability of snow accumulation in Dronning Maud Land, East Antarctica, including two deep ice coring sites at Dome Fuji and EPICA DML
Authors: Fujita S. , Holmlund P. , Andersson I. , Brown I. , Enomoto H. , Fujii Y. , Fujita K. , Fukui K. , Furukawa T. , Hansson M. , Hara K. , Hoshina Y. , Igarashi M. , Iizuka Y. , Imura S. , Ingvander S. , Karlin T. , Motoyama H. , Nakazawa F. , Oerter H. , Sjöberg L. E. , Sugiyama S. , Surdyk S. , Ström J. , Uemura R. , Wilhelms F.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. To better understand the spatio-temporal variability of the glaciological environment in Dronning Maud Land (DML), East Antarctica, investigations were carried out along the 2800-km-long Japanese-Swedish IPY 2007/2008 traverse. The route covers ice sheet ridges and two deep ice coring sites at Dome Fuji and EPICA DML. The surface mass balance (SMB) distribution was derived based on analysis of isochrones within snow pits, firn cores and subsurface radar signals. The SMB averaged over various time scales in the Holocene was determined. This was then compared with various glaciological data. We find that the large-scale distribution of the SMB depends on the surface elevation, continentality and interactions between ice sheet ridges and the prevailing counterclockwise windfield in DML. A different SMB is found for the windward and leeward sides of the ridges. Local-scale variability in the SMB is essentially governed by bedrock topography which determines the local surface topography. In the eastern part of DML, the accumulation rate in the second half of the 20th century is found to be higher by 15 % compared to averages over longer periods of 722 a or 7.9 ka before AD 2008. A similar trend has been reported for many inland plateau sites in East Antarctica.
Meditation in Higher Education: The Question of Change, a Current Problem, and Evidence Toward a Solution
Authors: Napora Lisa
Published: August 2011

This article examines the process of systemic change in the higher education system. An overview of meditation research in the fields of medicine and psychology is presented, and the emerging field of contemplative education is described. New developments in mindfulness research in higher education are also introduced. The author suggests a reframing of meditation in the classroom as a solution to a current societal problem and advocates for the ability of meditation to address some of the practical concerns of education today.
The Contribution of Four Immunogenetic Markers for Predicting Persistent Activity in Patients with Recent-Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis or Undifferentiated Arthritis
Authors: Reneses Sonsoles , Fernández-Suárez Antonio , González-Escribano Maria F. , Pestana Luis , García Alicia
Published: August 2011

We assessed the contribution of four baseline markers—HLA-DRB1 shared epitope (SE), −308 tumor necrosis factor α gene promoter polymorphism, rheumatoid factor, and anticitrullinated peptide antibodies—for predicting persistent activity (DAS28 score ≥2.6) after one year of followup in a cohort of 201 patients with recent-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or undifferentiated arthritis (UA) aged 16 years or older who had a 4-week to 12-month history of swelling of at least two joints. Patients had not been previously treated with corticosteroids or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD). In the best logistic regression model, only two variables were retained: SE positivity and number of DMARD administered (area under the curve = 76.4%; 95% CI: 69.2%, 84.4%; ). The best linear regression model also included these two variables, explaining only 22.5% of the variability of DAS28 score. In this study, given an equal number of DMARD administered, the probability of persistent activity in patients with recent-onset RA or UA was significantly influenced by SE presence.
Bactericidal Effects of Diode Laser Irradiation on Enterococcus faecalis Using Periapical Lesion Defect Model
Authors: Nagayoshi Masato , Nishihara Tatsuji , Nakashima Keisuke , Iwaki Shigetsugu , Chen Ker-Kong , Terashita Masamichi , Kitamura Chiaki
Published: August 2011

Objective. Photodynamic therapy has been expanded for use in endodontic treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial effects of diode laser irradiation on endodontic pathogens in periapical lesions using an in vitro apical lesion model. Study Design. Enterococcus faecalis in 0.5% semisolid agar with a photosensitizer was injected into apical lesion area of in vitro apical lesion model. The direct effects of irradiation with a diode laser as well as heat produced by irradiation on the viability of microorganisms in the lesions were analyzed. Results. The viability of E. faecalis was significantly reduced by the combination of a photosensitizer and laser irradiation. The temperature caused by irradiation rose, however, there were no cytotoxic effects of heat on the viability of E. faecalis. Conclusion. Our results suggest that utilization of a diode laser in combination with a photosensitizer may be useful for clinical treatment of periapical lesions.
Diversity in Unity: An Empirical Analysis of Electricity Deregulation in Indian States
Authors: Sen Anupama , Jamasb Tooraj
Published: August 2011

As developing countries seek to improve their economic prospects, electricity reform has been widely viewed as a central part of this effort. While the focus of most research to date has been at economy or utility level, there has been much less research on regional outcomes. India presents a unique case, as its states share a common economic and political system, whilst having been given considerable flexibility in how they implement reform, thus allowing a comparative analysis of alternative approaches to reform. This study presents an econometric analysis of the determinants and impact of electricity reform in India, giving special regard to its political economy and regional diversity. It assesses how electricity reform in India has affected key economic variables that determine sectoral efficiency, prices and investment flows. We use panel data for 19 states, spanning 1991-2007, using dynamic panel data estimators. Results show that individual reform measures have affected key economic variables differently; thus the nature of reform in individual states would determine these economic outcomes. Findings suggest that due to political economy factors, outcomes have tended to be adverse in the initial stages of reform, as previously hidden distortions become apparent. The performance of reforms, however, may improve as the reform progresses beyond a ‘baseline’ level.

doi: 10.5547/ISSN0195-6574-EJ-Vol33-No1-4
Protecting Sexual and Reproductive Health Privacy Post-Dobbs
Authors: Tobin-Tyler Elizabeth , Adashi Eli
Published: June 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the dangers to abortion providers and patients of law enforcement access to sexual and reproductive health information.
Assessing the Environmental and Downstream Human Health Impacts of Decentralizing Cancer Care
Authors: Hantel Andrew , Cernik Colin , Walsh Thomas P. , Uno Hajime , Larios Dalia , Slutzman Jonathan E. , Abel Gregory A.
Published: June 2024

Importance

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from health care are substantial and disproportionately harm persons with cancer. Emissions from a central component of oncology care, outpatient clinician visits, are not well described, nor are the reductions in emissions and human harms that could be obtained through decentralizing this aspect of cancer care (ie, telemedicine and local clinician care when possible).

Objective

To assess potential reductions in GHG emissions and downstream health harms associated with telemedicine and fully decentralized cancer care.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based cohort study and counterfactual analyses using life cycle assessment methods analyzed persons receiving cancer care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute between May 2015 and December 2020 as well as persons diagnosed with cancer over the same period from the Cancer in North America (CiNA) public dataset. Data were analyzed from October 2023 to April 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The adjusted per–visit day difference in GHG emissions in kilograms of carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalents between 2 periods: an in-person care model period (May 2015 to February 2020; preperiod) and a telemedicine period (March to December 2020; postperiod), and the annual decrease in disability-adjusted life-years in a counterfactual model where care during the preperiod was maximally decentralized nationwide.

Results

Of 123 890 included patients, 73 988 (59.7%) were female, and the median (IQR) age at first diagnosis was 59 (48-68) years. Patients were seen over 1.6 million visit days. In mixed-effects log-linear regression, the mean absolute reduction in per–visit day CO2 equivalent emissions between the preperiod and postperiod was 36.4 kg (95% CI, 36.2-36.6), a reduction of 81.3% (95% CI, 80.8-81.7) compared with the baseline model. In a counterfactual decentralized care model of the preperiod, there was a relative emissions reduction of 33.1% (95% CI, 32.9-33.3). When demographically matched to 10.3 million persons in the CiNA dataset, decentralized care would have reduced national emissions by 75.3 million kg of CO2 equivalents annually; this corresponded to an estimated annual reduction of 15.0 to 47.7 disability-adjusted life-years.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study found that using decentralization through telemedicine and local care may substantially reduce cancer care’s GHG emissions; this corresponds to small reductions in human mortality.
Electroplating of Palladium‐Based Integrated Reactive Multilayer Systems (iRMS)
Authors: Vogel Klaus , Braun Silvia , Reede Sina , Becker Mike , Schmitz Sam , Froehner Klaus , Lütke Notarp Dietmar , Weiser Mathias , Schneider Michael , Krieger Uwe , Herbst Thomas
Published: June 2024

Bonding with integrated reactive material systems enables joining of heterogeneous substrates at room temperature. The increasing diversity of electronic modules raises the demand for low temperature bonding processes for heat sensitive components. In this article, fundamental steps for the deposition of Pd/In multilayers from a single bath electrolyte are presented. It furthermore describes the deposition of Pd/Sn reactive multilayers for bonding application on ceramic substrates and introduces a new semi‐automated plating tool for Pd/Sn multilayers. The Pd/Sn multilayers can be deposited reproducible on silicon and ceramic substrates. While a bilayer period of 425 nm enables stable ignition and bonding of Si substrates, the bilayer period for ceramics has to be increased to 620 nm to compensate the higher heat dissipation into the substrate. By integrating 2.5–9 μm thick Sn compensation layers beneath the integrated reactive multilayer systems (iRMS) to smoothen the surface profile of the printed metallization and improved bonding processes with wedge compensation, a homogeneous bond along the whole interface can be achieved.
Screening Conductive MXenes for Lithium Polysulfide Adsorption
Authors: Valurouthu Geetha , Shekhirev Mikhail , Anayee Mark , Wang Ruocun (John) , Matthews Kyle , Parker Tetiana , Lord Robert W. , Zhang Danzhen , Inman Alex , Downes Marley , Ahn Chi Won , Kalra Vibha , Oh Il‐Kwon , Gogotsi Yury
Published: June 2024

MXenes are promising passive components that enable lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs) by effectively trapping lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) and facilitating surface‐mediated redox reactions. Despite numerous studies highlighting the potential of MXenes in LSBs, there are no systematic studies of MXenes’ composition influence on polysulfide adsorption, which is foundational to their applications in LSB. Here, a comprehensive investigation of LiPS adsorption on seven MXenes with varying chemistries (Ti2CTx, Ti3C2Tx, Ti3CNTx, Mo2TiC2Tx, V2CTx, Nb2CTx, and Nb4C3Tx), utilizing optical and analytical spectroscopic methods is performed. This work reports on the influence of polysulfide concentration, interaction time, and MXenes’ chemistry (transition metal layer, carbide and carbonitride inner layer, surface terminations and structure) on the amount of adsorbed LiPSs and the adsorption mechanism. These findings reveal the formation of insoluble thiosulfate and polythionate complex species on the surfaces of all tested MXenes. Furthermore, the selective adsorption of lithium and sulfur, and the extent of conversion of the adsorbed species on MXenes varied based on their chemistry. For instance, Ti2CTx exhibits a strong tendency to adsorb lithium ions, while Mo2TiC2Tx is effective in trapping sulfur by forming long‐chain polythionates. The latter demonstrates a significant conversion of intermediate polysulfides into low‐order species. This study offers valuable guidance for the informed selection of MXenes in various functional components benefiting the future development of high‐performance LSBs.
Hydrogel Derived from Decellularized Porcine Small Intestinal Submucosa as a Physical Shielding Repaired the Gut Epithelial Barrier of Murine Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Pan Hanxiao , Ding Bingyu , Jiang Zhijiang , Wang Jie , Li Dingwei , Yu Fengnan , Wang Lifen , Hu Sunkuan , Zhao Yingzheng , Xu Helin
Published: June 2024

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is associated with the shedding of the gut mucus. Decellularized porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS‐ECM) contains numerous active forms of extracellular matrix as well as growth factors. Herein, a mucus‐mimetic hydrogel (MAG) is designed as a barrier therapy by integrating SIS‐ECM with hyaluronic acid and epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate. MAG not only presented the viscoelastic behaviors with G' of 4000 Pa but also good thixotropy. Moreover, MAG as a physical shielding is effective to hinder E. coli invasion. Besides, the good repairing effect on the injured Caco‐2 cells is presented by MAG. When MAG as a biomimetic mucus is rectally administrated to colitis mouse, it alleviated effectively the colitis symptoms and improved the colonic shorting. Moreover, expression of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α at the laminae propria is substantially inhibited by MAG. Besides, the colonic epitheliums are well rearranged, and the tight junction proteins (ZO‐1, Occludin‐1, Claudin‐5) between them are greatly upregulated after MAG treatment. Meanwhile, the mucus secretion of goblets cells is effectively repaired by MAG treatment. The repairing mechanism of intestinal mucosa barriers is associated with promoting the proliferation and differentiation of intestinal stem cells. Collectively, MAG might be a promising strategy of barrier therapy for UC.
Chemically Programmed Hydrogels for Spatiotemporal Modulation of the Cardiac Pathological Microenvironment
Authors: Yu Chaojie , Qiu Yuwei , Yao Fanglian , Wang Changyong , Li Junjie
Published: June 2024

After myocardial infarction (MI), sustained ischemic events induce pathological microenvironments characterized by ischemia‐hypoxia, oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, matrix remodeling, and fibrous scarring. Conventional clinical therapies lack spatially targeted and temporally responsive modulation of the infarct microenvironment, leading to limited myocardial repair. Engineered hydrogels have a chemically programmed toolbox for minimally invasive localization of the pathological microenvironment and personalized responsive modulation over different pathological periods. Chemically programmed strategies for crosslinking interactions, interfacial binding, and topological microstructures in hydrogels enable minimally invasive implantation and in situ integration tailored to the myocardium. This enhances substance exchange and signal interactions within the infarcted microenvironment. Programmed responsive polymer networks, intelligent micro/nanoplatforms, and biological therapeutic cues contribute to the formation of microenvironment‐modulated hydrogels with precise targeting, spatiotemporal control, and on‐demand feedback. Therefore, this review summarizes the features of the MI microenvironment and chemically programmed schemes for hydrogels to conform, integrate, and modulate the cardiac pathological microenvironment. Chemically programmed strategies for oxygen‐generating, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, provascular, and electrointegrated hydrogels to stimulate iterative and translational cardiac tissue engineering are discussed.
Integration Construction of Hybrid Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Huang Lei , Niu Huiting , Xia Chenfeng , Li Fu‐Min , Shahid Zaman , Xia Bao Yu
Published: June 2024

There is notable progress in the development of efficient oxygen reduction electrocatalysts, which are crucial components of fuel cells. However, these superior activities are limited by imbalanced mass transport and cannot be fully reflected in actual fuel cell applications. Herein, the design concepts and development tracks of platinum (Pt)‐nanocarbon hybrid catalysts, aiming to enhance the performance of both cathodic electrocatalysts and fuel cells, are presented. This review commences with an introduction to Pt/C catalysts, highlighting the diverse architectures developed to date, with particular emphasis on heteroatom modification and microstructure construction of functionalized nanocarbons based on integrated design concepts. This discussion encompasses the structural evolution, property enhancement, and catalytic mechanisms of Pt/C‐based catalysts, including rational preparation recipes, superior activity, strong stability, robust metal‐support interactions, adsorption regulation, synergistic pathways, confinement strategies, ionomer optimization, mass transport permission, multidimensional construction, and reactor upgrading. Furthermore, this review explores the low‐barrier or barrier‐free mass exchange interfaces and channels achieved through the impressive multidimensional construction of Pt‐nanocarbon integrated catalysts, with the goal of optimizing fuel cell efficiency. In conclusion, this review outlines the challenges associated with Pt‐nanocarbon integrated catalysts and provides perspectives on the future development trends of fuel cells and beyond.
Wireless Intelligent Patch for Closed‐loop In Situ Wound Management
Authors: Liu Zijian , Song Hao , Lin Guanming , Zhong Weicong , Zhang Yang , Yang Anqi , Liu Yuxin , Duan Junhan , Zhou Yajing , Jiao Kangjian , Ding Donghai , Feng Yanwen , Yue Jun , Zhao Wenjing , Lin Xudong
Published: June 2024

Wound infections pose a major healthcare issue, affecting the well‐being of millions of patients worldwide. Effective intervention and on‐site detection are important in wound management. However, current approaches are hindered by time‐consuming analysis and a lack of technology for real‐time monitoring and prompt therapy delivery. In this study, a smart wound patch system (SWPS) designed for wireless closed‐loop and in‐situ wound management is presented. The SWPS integrates a microfluidic structure, an organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) based sensor, an electrical stimulation module, and a miniaturized flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The OECT incorporates a bacteria‐responsive DNA hydrogel‐coated gate for continuous monitoring of bacterial virulence at wound sites. Real‐time detection of OECT readings and on‐demand delivery of electrical cues to accelerate wound healing is facilitated by a mobile phone application linked with an FPCB containing low‐power electronics equipped with parallel sensing and stimulation circuitry. In this proof‐of‐concept study, the functionality of the SWPS is validated and its application both in vitro and in vivo is demonstrated. This proposed system expands the arsenal of tools available for effective wound management and enables personalized treatment.
Designing the Interface Layer of Solid Electrolytes for All‐Solid‐State Lithium Batteries
Authors: Xia Qian , Yuan Shuoguo , Zhang Qiang , Huang Can , Liu Jun , Jin Hongyun
Published: June 2024

Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 (LATP) is one of the most attractive solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) for application in all‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) due to its advantages of high ionic conductivity, air stability and low cost. However, the poor interfacial contact and slow Li‐ion migration have greatly limited its practical application. Herein, a composite ion‐conducting layer is designed at the Li/LATP interface, which a MoS2 film is constructed on LATP via chemical vapor deposition, followed by the introduction of a solid polymer (SP) liquid precursor to form a MoS2@SP protective layer. This protective layer not only achieves a lower Li‐ion migration energy barrier, but also adsorbs more Li‐ion, which is able to promote interfacial ion transport and improve interfacial contacts. Thanks to the improved migration and adsorption of Li‐ion, the Li symmetric cell containing LATP‐MoS2@SP exhibits a stable cycle of more than 1200 h at 0.1 mA cm−2. More remarkably, the capacity retention of the full cell assembled with LiFePO4 cathode is as high as 86.2% after 400 cycles at 1 C. This work provides a design strategy for significantly improving unstable interfaces of SSEs and realizing high‐performance ASSLBs.
Conjugated Microporous Polymers‐Based Catalytic Membranes with Hierarchical Channels for High‐Throughput Removal of Micropollutants
Authors: Li Jiaqiang , Lyu Wei , Mi Xuejin , Qian Cheng , Liu Yanbiao , Yu Junrong , Kaner Richard B. , Liao Yaozu
Published: June 2024

Engineering a catalytic membrane capable of efficiently removing emerging organic microcontaminants under ultrahigh flux conditions is of significance for water purification. Herein, drawing inspiration from the functional attributes of lymphatic vessels involved in immunosurveillance and fluid transport with minimal energy consumption, a novel hierarchical porous catalytic membrane is engineered. This membrane, based on an innovative nitrogen‐rich conjugated microporous polymer (polytripheneamine, PTPA), is synthesized using an electrospinning coupled in situ polymerization approach. The resulting bioinspired membrane with hierarchical channels comprises a thin layer (≈1.7 µm) of crosslinked PTPA nanoparticles covering the interconnected electrospun nanofibers. This unique design creates an intrinsic microporous angstrom‐confined system capable of activating peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to generate 98.7% singlet oxygen (1O2), enabling durable and highly efficient degradation of microcontaminants. Additionally, the presence of a thin layer of mesoporous structure between PTPA nanoparticles and macroporous channels within the interwoven nanofibers enhances mass transfer efficiency and facilitates high flux rates. Notably, the prepared hierarchical porous organic catalytic membrane demonstrates enduring high‐efficiency degradation performance with a superior permeance (>95% and >2500 L m−2 h−1 bar−1) sustained over 100 h. This work introduces an innovative pathway for the design of high‐performance catalytic membranes for the removal of emerging organic microcontaminants.
Defects of Metal Halide Perovskites in Photocatalytic Energy Conversion: Friend or Foe?
Authors: Wang Chunhua , Xie Zhirun , Wang Yannan , Ding Yang , Leung Michael K. H. , Ng Yun Hau
Published: June 2024

Photocatalytic solar‐to‐fuel conversion over metal halide perovskites (MHPs) has recently attracted much attention, while the roles of defects in MHPs are still under debate. Specifically, the mainstream viewpoint is that the defects are detrimental to photocatalytic performance, while some recent studies show that certain types of defects contribute to photoactivity enhancement. However, a systematic summary of why it is contradictory and how the defects in MHPs affect photocatalytic performance is still lacking. In this review, the innovative roles of defects in MHP photocatalysts are highlighted. First, the origins of defects in MHPs are elaborated, followed by clarifying certain benefits of defects in photocatalysts including optical absorption, charge dynamics, and surface reaction. Afterward, the recent progress on defect‐related MHP photocatalysis, i.e., CO2 reduction, H2 generation, pollutant degradation, and organic synthesis is systematically discussed and critically appraised, putting emphasis on their beneficial effects. With defects offering peculiar sets of merits and demerits, the personal opinion on the ongoing challenges is concluded and outlining potentially promising opportunities for engineering defects on MHP photocatalysts. This critical review is anticipated to offer a better understanding of the MHP defects and spur some inspiration for designing efficient MHP photocatalysts.
Nitrogen‐Doped Graphene‐Like Carbon Intercalated MXene Heterostructure Electrodes for Enhanced Sodium‐ and Lithium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Liang Kun , Wu Tao , Misra Sudhajit , Dun Chaochao , Husmann Samantha , Prenger Kaitlyn , Urban Jeffrey J. , Presser Volker , Unocic Raymond R. , Jiang De‐en , Naguib Michael
Published: June 2024

MXene is investigated as an electrode material for different energy storage systems due to layered structures and metal‐like electrical conductivity. Experimental results show MXenes possess excellent cycling performance as anode materials, especially at large current densities. However, the reversible capacity is relatively low, which is a significant barrier to meeting the demands of industrial applications. This work synthesizes N‐doped graphene‐like carbon (NGC) intercalated Ti3C2Tx (NGC‐Ti3C2Tx) van der Waals heterostructure by an in situ method. The as‐prepared NGC‐Ti3C2Tx van der Waals heterostructure is employed as sodium‐ion and lithium‐ion battery electrodes. For sodium‐ion batteries, a reversible specific capacity of 305 mAh g−1 is achieved at a specific current of 20 mA g−1, 2.3 times higher than that of Ti3C2Tx. For lithium‐ion batteries, a reversible capacity of 400 mAh g−1 at a specific current of 20 mA g−1 is 1.5 times higher than that of Ti3C2Tx. Both sodium‐ion and lithium‐ion batteries made from NGC‐Ti3C2Tx shows high cycling stability. The theoretical calculations also verify the remarkable improvement in battery capacity within the NGC‐Ti3C2O2 system, attributed to the additional adsorption of working ions at the edge states of NGC. This work offers an innovative way to synthesize a new van der Waals heterostructure and provides a new route to improve the electrochemical performance significantly.
Liquid Phase Exfoliation of Few‐Layer Non‐Van der Waals Chromium Sulfide
Authors: Su Wenjie , Kuklin Artem , Jin Ling hua , Engelgardt Dana , Zhang Han , Ågren Hans , Zhang Ye
Published: June 2024

Exfoliation of 2D non‐Van der Waals (non‐vdW) semiconductor nanoplates (NPs) from inorganic analogs presents many challenges ahead for further exploring of their advanced applications on account of the strong bonding energies. In this study, the exfoliation of ultrathin 2D non‐vdW chromium sulfide (2D Cr2S3) by means of a combined facile liquid‐phase exfoliation (LPE) method is successfully demonstrated. The morphology and structure of the 2D Cr2S3 material are systematically examined. Magnetic studies show an obvious temperature‐dependent uncompensated antiferromagnetic behavior of 2D Cr2S3. The material is further loaded on TiO2 nanorod arrays to form an S‐scheme heterojunction. Experimental measurements and density functional theory (DFT) calculations confirm that the formed TiO2@Cr2S3 S‐scheme heterojunction facilitates the separation and transmission of photo‐induced electron/hole pairs, resulting in a significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity in the visible region.
High‐Performance Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzers Enabled by Highly Gas Permeable and Dimensionally Stable Anion Exchange Ionomers
Authors: Liu Fanghua , Miyatake Kenji , Tanabe Masako , Mahmoud Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed , Yadav Vikrant , Guo Lin , Wong Chun Yik , Xian Fang , Iwataki Toshio , Uchida Makoto , Kakinuma Katsuyoshi
Published: June 2024

Designing suitable anion exchange ionomers is critical to improving the performance and in situ durability of anion exchange membrane water electrolyzers (AEMWEs) as one of the promising devices for producing green hydrogen. Herein, highly gas‐permeable and dimensionally stable anion exchange ionomers (QC6xBA and QC6xPA) are developed, in which bulky cyclohexyl (C6) groups are introduced into the polymer backbones. QC650BA‐2.1 containing 50 mol% C6 composition shows 16.6 times higher H2 permeability and 22.3 times higher O2 permeability than that of QC60BA‐2.1 without C6 groups. Through‐plane swelling of QC650BA‐2.1 decreases to 12.5% from 31.1% (QC60BA‐2.1) while OH− conductivity slightly decreases (64.9 and 56.2 mS cm−1 for QC60BA‐2.1 and QC650BA‐2.1, respectively, at 30 °C). The water electrolysis cell using the highly gas permeable QC650BA‐2.1 ionomer and Ni0.8Co0.2O in the anode catalyst layer achieves two times higher performance (2.0 A cm−2 at 1.69 V, IR‐included) than those of the previous cell using in‐house ionomer (QPAF‐4‐2.0) (1.0 A cm−2 at 1.69 V, IR‐included). During 1000 h operation at 1.0 A cm−2, the QC650BA‐2.1 cell exhibits nearly constant cell voltage with a decay rate of 1.1 µV h−1 after the initial increase of the cell voltage, proving the effectiveness of the highly gas permeable and dimensionally stable ionomer in AEMWEs.
Akkermansia muciniphilaisolated from forest musk deer ameliorates diarrhea in mice via modification of gut microbiota
Authors: Deng Yan , Wang Yan , Liu Ying , Yang Xiaoli , Zhang Hai , Xue Xiaochang , Wan Yi
Published: June 2024

Background

The forest musk deer, a rare fauna species found in China, is famous for its musk secretion which is used in selected Traditional Chinese medicines. However, over‐hunting has led to musk deer becoming an endangered species, and their survival is also greatly challenged by various high incidence and high mortality respiratory and intestinal diseases such as septic pneumonia and enteritis. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated thatAkkermannia muciniphila(AKK) is a promising probiotic, and we wondered whether AKK could be used as a food additive in animal breeding programmes to help prevent intestinal diseases.

Methods

We isolated one AKK strain from musk deer feces (AKK‐D) using an improved enrichment medium combined with real‐time PCR. After confirmation by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, a series of in vitro tests was conducted to evaluate the probiotic effects of AKK‐D by assessing its reproductive capability, simulated gastrointestinal fluid tolerance, acid and bile salt resistance, self‐aggregation ability, hydrophobicity, antibiotic sensitivity, hemolysis, harmful metabolite production, biofilm formation ability, and bacterial adhesion to gastrointestinal mucosa.

Results

The AKK‐D strain has a probiotic function similar to that of the standard strain in humans (AKK‐H). An in vivo study found that AKK‐D significantly ameliorated symptoms in the enterotoxigenicEscherichia coli(ETEC)‐induced murine diarrhea model. AKK‐D improved organ damage, inhibited inflammatory responses, and improved intestinal barrier permeability. Additionally, AKK‐D promoted the reconstitution and maintenance of the homeostasis of gut microflora, as indicated by the fact that AKK‐D‐treated mice showed a decrease inBacteroidetesand an increase in the proportion of other beneficial bacteria likeMuribaculaceae,Muribaculum, and unclassifiedf_Lachnospiaceaecompared with the diarrhea model mice.

Conclusion

Taken together, our data show that this novel AKK‐D strain might be a potential probiotic for use in musk deer breeding, although further extensive systematic research is still needed.
Aluminium in der Chemie der Frustrierten Lewis‐Paare
Authors: Krämer Felix
Published: June 2024

Dieser Übersichtsartikel beschreibt die Entwicklung der Verwendung von Aluminiumverbindungen in der Chemie der frustrierten Lewis‐Paare (FLPs) in den letzten 14 Jahren. Es werden die Synthese, die Reaktivität und die katalytischen Anwendungen von intermolekularen, intramolekularen und sogenannten versteckten FLPs mit Phosphor‐, Stickstoff‐ und Kohlenstoff‐Lewis‐Basen erörtert. Die intrinsisch höhere Acidität von Aluminiumverbindungen im Vergleich zu ihren Bor‐Analoga eröffnet unterschiedliche Reaktionswege. Die Ergebnisse werden in einer mehr oder weniger chronologischen Reihenfolge präsentiert. Es wird gezeigt, dass Al‐FLPs mit einer Vielzahl von polaren und unpolaren Substraten reagieren und sowohl stabile Addukte bilden als auch reversibel Bindungen aktivieren. Folglich werden einige katalytische Anwendungen der Titelverbindungen vorgestellt, wie z. B. die Dimerisierung von Alkinen, die Hydrierung von tert‐butylethylen und Iminen, die Aktivierung von C−F‐Bindungen, die Reduktion von CO2, die Dehydrierung von Aminboran und der Transfer von Ammoniak. Darüber hinaus wurden verschiedene Al‐FLPs als Initiatoren in Polymerisationsreaktionen eingesetzt.
The influence of mold design and process parameters on dimensional shrinkage of perfluoroalkoxy alkane injection molding parts
Authors: Li Xuemei , Liu Fan , Zhang Chengqian , Gao Ruoxiang , Xu Xiao , Fu Jianzhong , Zhao Peng
Published: June 2024

In mass production, injection molding plays a vital role in manufacturing various parts with complex settings. As perfluoroalkoxy alkane (PFA) injection‐molded products are widely used in immersion system, dimensional quality needs more attention. However, there is limited research on the dimension defects of PFA injection‐molded products. This study focused on the influence of mold design and process parameters on PFA part shrinkage, using mold flow simulation and orthogonal testing separately. Several gate locations and sizes were simulated to minimize shrinkage in mold design. Displacements varied with gate locations, and shrinkage decreased with larger gate sizes. The Taguchi method analyzed process parameters' impact on shrinkage. The results indicated that the injection rate had the most significant effect on the shrinkage of tube length, while melt temperature, holding pressure, and screw speed affected the shrinkage of tubes' outside diameter. Different flow directions exhibited variance in shrinkage. Using max–min normalization, the two shrinkage values reached 0.00972, whereas the smallest value obtained in the orthogonal experiment was 0.1545 in run 3. Thus, optimizing mold design and process parameters were two effective methods to reduce shrinkage. This study reduced shrinkage and improved the quality of PFA injection molding parts for semiconductor systems.
Linear quadratic optimal control problems of infinite‐dimensional mean‐field type with jumps
Authors: Wang Shijun , Tang Maoning , Meng Qingxin
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we formulate and investigate a framework for the theory of the linear quadratic optimal control problem (LQ problem) for infinite‐dimensional mean‐field stochastic evolution systems with jumps. We ensure the well‐posedness of the investigated problems by establishing the existence, uniqueness, and a priori estimates for mild solutions to general infinite‐dimensional mean‐field forward stochastic evolution equations (MF‐SEE) and mean‐field backward stochastic evolution equations (MF‐BSEE) with jumps. Leveraging the Yosida approximation theory, we establish a dual theory between MF‐SEE and MF‐BSEE with jumps, overcoming the challenge posed by the inapplicability of Itô's formula in the context of mild solutions. Our main results regarding the existence and uniqueness of the optimal control, along with corresponding dual characterizations and state feedback representations, are obtained through convex analysis techniques, our established dual theory, and decoupling methods.
Dynamic event‐triggered fault estimation and accommodation for networked systems based on intermediate variable
Authors: Zhao Yuezhou , Li Tieshan , Long Yue , Bai Weiwei
Published: June 2024

In this paper, the problem of robust fault estimation and fault‐tolerant control is considered for networked systems with external disturbances. By introducing an intermediate variable containing the system state information and fault information, the observer to accurately estimate the fault and system state is proposed. The gain matrices of fault estimation observer, fault‐tolerant controller and dynamic event‐triggered mechanism(ETM) are calculated simultaneously by solving a convex optimization problem. Compared with the existing results, the proposed fault estimation strategy does not match observer matching conditions. Furthermore, the introduction of dynamic ETM can effectively reduce the burden of the network with limited bandwidth resources. Finally, two simulation examples show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Examining the influence of customers, suppliers, and regulators on environmental practices of SMEs: Evidence from the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Sawang Sukanlaya , Ng Poh Yen , Kivits Robbert Anton , Dsilva Jacinta , Locke Jasmina
Published: June 2024

This study explores which stakeholders have more substantial influence than others and which combinations of stakeholders will have the greatest impact on small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises' environmental practices. A quantitative survey of 150 manager‐owners of SMEs found that while customers and suppliers significantly influence SMEs' sustainability behaviors, the demands and expectations set by regulatory bodies have a more substantial impact on how SMEs shape their environmental practices. Further, the presence of regulatory pressures does more than directly influence SMEs. Pressure from regulatory bodies also amplifies the effect of other forces on SMEs' environmental practices. In other words, when regulatory pressures exist, the impact of customer and supplier pressures on SMEs' sustainability behaviors becomes even more substantial. This synergistic effect underscores the pivotal role of regulatory pressures in shaping and enhancing SMEs' commitment to environmental sustainability.
Single immunization with an influenza hemagglutinin nanoparticle‐based vaccine elicits durable protective immunity
Authors: Chiba Shiho , Maemura Tadashi , Loeffler Kathryn , Frey Steven J. , Gu Chunyang , Biswas Asim , Hatta Masato , Kawaoka Yoshihiro , Kane Ravi S.
Published: June 2024

Vaccination is the most effective strategy to combat influenza. Ideally, potent and persistent vaccine effects would be induced with a single vaccine dose. Here, we designed a virus‐like particle (VLP)‐based vaccine presenting multiple copies of the influenza hemagglutinin (HA) from A/Puerto Rico/8/1934 (PR8HA‐VLP) and examined its immunogenicity and protective efficacy in ferrets. Serum‐neutralizing antibodies were effectively induced against the homologous virus at 3‐week post‐vaccination with a single dose of PR8HA‐VLP with or without adjuvants. When the single‐immunized ferrets were challenged with the homologous virus, virus replication in the nasal mucosa was significantly reduced. Long‐term monitoring of serum titers revealed that after adjuvanted vaccination with PR8HA‐VLP, neutralizing antibodies were retained at similar levels 20‐ to 183‐week post‐vaccination, although a 4‐ to 8‐fold titer decline was observed from 3‐ to 20‐week post‐vaccination. Boost immunization at 183 weeks after the first immunization elicited higher neutralizing antibody titers than those at 3 weeks after the initial immunization in most of the animals. These results confirm that nanoparticle‐based vaccines are a promising approach to effectively elicit durable multiyear neutralizing antibody responses against influenza viruses.
Real‐world study on the characteristics, post‐nephrectomy journey, and outcomes of patients with early‐stage renal cell carcinoma based on risk groups
Authors: Karam Jose A. , Bhattacharya Rituparna , Ogbomo Adesuwa , Gautam Santosh , Yu Rebekah , Sundaram Murali , Imai Kentaro , Chhabra Jatin , Haas Naomi B.
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To examine real‐world characteristics, journey, and outcomes among patients with locoregional, nonmetastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of medical records from the ConcertAI Oncology Dataset was performed on adults in the United States with newly diagnosed nonmetastatic RCC between January 2012–December 2017 who received surgical treatment, and were followed until August 2021. Patients were stratified based on the risk of recurrence after nephrectomy. Recurrence rate and survival outcomes were assessed.

Results

The cohort (n = 439) had a median age of 64 years, 66.1% were male, and 76.5% had clear‐cell histology. The median follow‐up time from nephrectomy was 39.3 months overall, 41.0 months for intermediate‐high‐risk patients (n = 377; 85.9%) and 24.1 months for high‐risk patients (n = 62; 14.1%). For intermediate‐high‐ and high‐risk patients, respectively, 68.4% and 56.5% had ≥1 medical oncologist visit after nephrectomy. Of 260 patients with documentation of postoperative imaging assessments, 72% were ordered by medical oncologists, and the median time from initial nephrectomy to the first scan was 110 days (intermediate‐high‐risk) and 51 days (high‐risk). Provider‐documented recurrence occurred in 223 (50.8%) patients, of whom 41.7% had ≥1 medical oncologist visit before the recurrence. Three‐year disease‐free survival (DFS), and overall survival rates were 49.4% and 80.8% (all patients): 27.7% and 64.7% (high‐risk); and 52.9% and 83.3% (intermediate‐high‐risk).

Conclusions

Our study reports low DFS after nephrectomy for patients with intermediate‐high‐ and high‐risk RCC. Subsequent approval and use of new and newly approved adjuvant therapeutic options could potentially delay or prevent recurrence.
Preliminary outcomes of boron neutron capture therapy for head and neck cancers as a treatment covered by public health insurance system in Japan: Real‐world experiences over a 2‐year period
Authors: Takeno Satoshi , Yoshino Yuki , Aihara Teruhito , Higashino Masaaki , Kanai Yasukazu , Hu Naonori , Kakino Ryo , Kawata Ryo , Nihei Keiji , Ono Koji
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Since June 2020, boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) has been a health care service covered by health insurance in Japan to treat locally advanced or recurrent unresectable head and neck cancers. Therefore, we aimed to assess the clinical outcomes of BNCT as a health insurance treatment and explore its role among the standard treatment modalities for head and neck cancers.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from patients who were treated using BNCT at Kansai BNCT Medical Center, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, between June 2020 and May 2022. We assessed objective response rates based on the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors version 1.1, and adverse events based on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 5.0. Additionally, we conducted a survival analysis and explored the factors that contributed to the treatment results.

Results

Sixty‐nine patients (72 treatments) were included in the study, with a median observation period of 15 months. The objective response rate was 80.5%, and the 1‐year locoregional control, progression‐free survival, and overall survival rates were 57.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 43.9%–68.3%), 42.2% (95% CI: 30.1%–53.8%), and 75.4% (95% CI: 62.5%–84.5%), respectively. Locoregional control was significantly longer in patients with earlier TNM staging and no history of chemotherapy.

Conclusions

BNCT may be an effective treatment option for locally advanced or recurrent unresectable head and neck cancers with no other definitive therapies. If definitive surgery or radiation therapy are not feasible, BNCT should be considered at early disease stages.
Omicron neutralization character in patients with breast cancer and liver cancer after the nationwide omicron outbreak
Authors: Zhang Shaohua , Tang Lili , Bao Chunmei , Wang Siyu , Li Bo , Huang Lei , Song Hua , Fu Junliang , Xu Zhe , Meng Fanping , Cao Lin , Gao Yingying , Yuan Yue , Chen Yangliu , Yuan Jinhong , Zhou Chunbao , Li Fan , Qin Lili , Guo Yingfei , Zhang Chao , Song Jinwen , Fan Xing , Jiang Zefei , Wang Fu‐Sheng , Xu Ruonan
Published: June 2024

Background

The surge in omicron variants has caused nationwide breakthrough infections in mainland China since the December 2022. In this study, we report the neutralization profiles of serum samples from the patients with breast cancer and the patients with liver cancer who had contracted subvariant breakthrough infections.

Methods

In this real‐world study, we enrolled 143 COVID‐19‐vaccinated (81 and 62 patients with breast and liver cancers) and 105 unvaccinated patients with cancer (58 and 47 patients with breast and liver cancers) after omicron infection. Anti‐spike receptor binding domain (RBD) IgGs and 50% pseudovirus neutralization titer (pVNT50) for the preceding (wild type), circulating omicron (BA.4‐BA.5, and BF.7), and new subvariants (XBB.1.5) were comprehensively analyzed.

Results

Patients with liver cancer receiving booster doses had higher levels of anti‐spike RBD IgG against circulating omicron (BA.4‐BA.5, and BF.7) and a novel subvariant (XBB.1.5) compared to patients with breast cancer after breakthrough infection. Additionally, all vaccinated patients produced higher neutralizing antibody titers against circulating omicron (BA.4‐BA.5, and BF.7) compared to unvaccinated patients. However, the unvaccinated patients produced higher neutralizing antibody against XBB.1.5 than vaccinated patients after Omicron infection, with this trend being more pronounced in breast cancer than in liver cancer patients. Moreover, we found that there was no correlation between anti‐spike RBD IgG against wildtype virus and the neutralizing antibody titer, but a positive correlation between anti‐spike RBD IgG and the neutralizing antibody against XBB.1.5 was found in unvaccinated patients.

Conclusion

Our study found that there may be differences in vaccine response and protective effect against COVID‐19 infection in patients with liver and breast cancer. Therefore, we recommend that COVID‐19 vaccine strategies should be optimized based on vaccine components and immunology profiles of different patients with cancer.
Anti‐Malarial and Multi‐Bioactive Co (II), Cu (II) and Ni (II) Salen Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization and Computational Studies
Authors: Todarwal Minakshee A. , Sancheti Rakesh S. , Nikume Sumit R. , Patel Harun M. , Bendre Ratnamala S.
Published: June 2024

Herein, we report the anti‐malarial, anti‐bacterial and anti‐inflammatory activities of the N2O2 donor tetradentate salen type ligand and its CoL, NiL, and CuL metal complexes. The synthesized compounds were characterized by various spectroscopic analytical methods. The in‐vitro anti‐malarial investigations revealed that the complex CuL exhibited equipotency with quinine drug having IC50 value 0.25 μg/mL. The compound L showed significant inhibition of bacterial spp. viz. E. Coli, P. Aeruginosa, and S. Aureus (MIC=12.5–50 μg/mL), while the compound CoL (MIC=12.5 μg/mL) exhibited potency against gram‐positive bacteria. In the in‐vitro anti‐inflammatory study, the compound CuL displayed moderate activity than other tested compounds. The compound CuL showed the highest anti‐malarial docking score with enzyme pLDH at −8.12 Kcal/mol. The DFT study also gives authentication of higher antimalarial activity of CuL due to high dipole moment. None of the potent compounds was found cytotoxic towards vero cell lines.