bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe Imported Malaria in Adults: Retrospective Study of 20 Cases
Authors: González Ana , Nicolás Josep M. , Muñoz Jose , Castro Pedro , Mas Jordi , Valls Ma Eugenia , Coma Josep R. , Aibar Jesús , Gascon Joaquim
Published: October 2009

Severe imported malaria is an important problem in many countries in which this disease is not endemic. This retrospective study describes the characteristics of 20 adults with severe imported malaria admitted to our intensive care unit from 1991 through 2007. All episodes were caused by Plasmodium falciparum and all patients had returned from sub-Saharan Africa, except for one transfusion recipient. All persons were considered non-immune, and none had taken appropriate chemoprophylaxis. The median time between the initiation of symptoms and the diagnosis was seven days. Five patients died (mortality rate = 25%). A higher frequency of unrousable coma and acidosis and a higher median Apache II score at admission was noted in the persons who died. Mortality by severe malaria remains high despite high quality management, which highlights the importance of chemoprophylaxis and early diagnosis and treatment.
Intra-Cystic Drug Concentration of Albendazole Sulphoxide in Patients with Echinococcus granulosus Cysts
Authors: Capan Mesküre , Keltner Sebastian , Thalhammer Florian , Winkler Stefan , Jäger Walter , Zeitlinger Markus , Ramharter Michael
Published: October 2009

Albendazole therapy—alone or in combination with surgery—remains the standard of care for human echinococcosis depending on the stage of disease. However, only limited data are available on target site concentrations in liver cysts and data for non-liver cysts are lacking. We report on intra-cystic concentrations of the biologically active metabolite albendazole sulphoxide in non-liver cysts indicating a relative intra-cystic drug concentration of 48–156% compared with plasma levels. These data are evidence for a satisfactory penetration of albendazole sulphoxide into Echinococcus cysts localized in other organs than the liver and underline the usefulness of albendazole therapy for this indication.
Tomotherapy in synchronous and metachronous bilateral breast cancer: Clinical experience
Authors: Orda Yernar , Shayakhmetov Tanzhas , Baiturova Saniya , Berikbol Daulet , Otynshiyev Rauan , Brimova Aigul , Saktashev Bolat , Baisalbayeva Ainur , Samigatova Ainur
Published: April 2024

Purpose of study

The objective of this research is to present our firsthand experience and provide up‐to‐date data for the further study of cases involving simultaneous breast irradiation using helical Tomotherapy, ©Accuray Inc.

Methods

The radical treatment options for bilateral breast cancer are surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Being that radiotherapy for bilateral breast cancer is challenging due to limitations in the geometry of modern radiotherapy equipment, helical Tomotherapy was chosen as an appropriate technique of irradiation. The retrospective review focused on the records of patients who underwent bilateral irradiation of the breast or chest wall and regional lymph nodes using helical Tomotherapy.

Results

Only four patients with bilateral breast cancer completed a radiation therapy course in our center from 2018 to 2023. Two patients underwent radical mastectomy with lymph node dissection on both sides before irradiation. For the other two patients, radical mastectomy was done after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Acute radiation toxicity scoring was based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 5.0. Only mild adverse effects, such as general weakness and slight skin irritation below Grade 3, were observed, with no instances of skin swelling, dryness, or pigmentation noted. Evaluation of late complications revealed tissue fibrosis in the area of the internal mammary nodes and respiratory failure with various severity. Complications and deterioration in the cardiovascular system were not observed during the follow‐up period, which varied from 3 to 48 months.

Conclusion

Our results show the efficacy of using helical Tomotherapy considering positive outcomes, being that three out of four patients are in remission with low acute toxicity and late complications. There are a small number of articles describing bilateral breast cancer treatment with helical Tomotherapy. On this occasion, our data could contribute to the studies of tolerant doses for organs at risk and improve the parameters of treatment plans for bilateral breast cancer. Since the small sample of patients with bilateral breast cancer limits the study, a larger cohort of patients is essential to obtain statistically reliable results.
Command filter based input quantized adaptive tracking control for multi‐input and multi‐output non‐strict feedback systems with unmodeled dynamics and full state time‐varying constraints
Authors: Zhu Xinfeng , Li Jinyu
Published: April 2024

This paper addresses the problem of adaptive tracking control for multi‐input and multi‐output (MIMO) non‐strict feedback systems with unmodeled dynamics and full state time‐varying constraints. To tackle the interference of unmodeled dynamics, the dynamic signal generated by the auxiliary system is used. Hyperbolic tangent function is used as a nonlinear mapping tool to transform the constrained system into an unconstrained one. Hysteresis quantizer is introduced to mitigate the chattering phenomenon and quantization error in the quantization signal. The derivative of virtual signal can be approximated more efficiently by command filter. Furthermore, an error compensation mechanism is established to mitigate the error introduced by the command filter. Unknown nonlinear functions are approximated by radial basis function neural networks (RBFNNs). Stability analysis of the proposed controller is performed through the Lyapunov stability theory and the output tracking error can be constrained within a specified range. Finally, simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Investigation of Phase Transformations and Ordering Mechanisms in a Pd–Cu–Ag–Ru Alloy
Authors: Lumper Lea Andrea , Fecher Jonas , Stark Andreas , Maier‐Kiener Verena
Published: April 2024

An in‐depth analysis of phase transformations in a Pd–Cu–Ag alloy, crucial for applications in hydrogen membranes and electrical components, is presented. The investigation emphasizes the influence of the deformation rate and addition of Ag on the formation of the ordered CuPd phase. This study focuses on a specific alloy composition, 49.1% Cu–41.3% Pd–8.3% Ag–1.3% Ru, investigating its behavior under various conditions. Through comprehensive analysis, including the influence of the initial state, deformation variations, and chemical composition modifications, high‐energy X‐ray diffraction to unveil detailed phase evolution dynamics is used. Surprisingly, experimental findings deviate from the anticipated phase diagram, uncovering a previously unrecognized three‐phase region with the formation of AgPd. Notably, the study reveals the pivotal role of the alloy's Ag content in the development of ordered CuPd and AgPd phases. The addition of Ru exhibits no involvement in the observed phase transformations, contributing to the understanding of the alloy's composition‐dependent behavior. This research provides valuable insights into the intricate interplay of factors influencing phase transformations, offering a nuanced perspective beyond theoretical predictions. The newfound understanding of Ag's role and Ru's inertness refines material design considerations, enhancing the grasp of the alloy's thermodynamic stability under varying conditions.
Influence of Programming and Recovery Parameters on Compressive Behaviors of 4D‐Printed Biocompatible Polyvinyl Chloride or Vinyl–Poly(ε‐Caprolactone) Blends
Authors: Rahmatabadi Davood , Aberoumand Mohammad , Soltanmohammadi Kianoosh , Soleyman Elyas , Ghasemi Ismaeil , Baniassadi Majid , Abrinia Karen , Bodaghi Mahdi , Baghani Mostafa
Published: April 2024

In this article, a new class of biocompatible shape‐memory polymers (SMPs) through blending pcolyvinyl chloride or vinyl (PVC) and poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) is introduced. The compressive shape‐memory behaviors of 4D‐printed SMP PVC with 5 and 10 wt% of PCL are studied in detail. In this respect, a set of experiments are carried out to understand thermomechanical responses of PVC–PCL blends under various shape‐memory parameters like programming temperature, load‐holding time, applied strain, and recovery temperature. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis and scanning electron microscope imaging are also performed to provide thermal and morphological analyses. It is found that by raising the recovery temperature from 45 to 65 °C, the shape recovery ratio increases from 5.63 to 7.92 MPa when the PVC–PCL10 is programmed via the hot‐programming (HP) protocol. The highest level of shape fixity (100%) and the best performance of stress relaxation are achieved for HP sample, while the highest shape recovery ratio (100%) is obtained for cold programming. By applying the load‐holding time, the amount of shape fixity can reach from 88.14% to 100%. Results of this research are expected to provide an insightful understanding of the shape‐memory behaviors of PVC–PCL and be instrumental for 4D printing and programming of shape‐adaptive structures like shape‐memory intervertebral cages as spinal support devices.
High Capacitance Based on Vacancy Defective Porous Carbon in Ionic Liquid
Authors: Feng Shihao , Zhao Qian , Wang Junjun , Zhang Wei , Wang Weixiao , Xu Ming , Zhou Liang , Mai Liqiang , Zhao Dongyuan , Liu Yong
Published: April 2024

Porous carbons have been extensively studied in electrochemical capacitors (ECs). However, low capacitance remains a limitation due to the electrical double layer (EDL) storage mechanism when porous carbons are used in ionic liquids (ILs) based ECs. Herein, the nitrogen‐derived vacancy defects in porous carbon nanospheres are found which can boost capacitive charge storage and present reversible high capacitance of 427 F g−1 in pure IL electrolyte, equal to a normalized area capacitance (CA) of 16 µF cm−2, surpassing the theoretical EDL CA (≈11 µF cm−2). When used as capacitive cathode, the assembled Lithium hybrid capacitor express high energy density of 635 Wh kg−1 based on active material under much high‐power density of 14.5 kW kg−1. A combination of control experiments and density functional theory investigation indicate that the EC's performance improvement mostly stems from strong interactions at vacancy defects, triggering extraordinary faradaic capacitance. The results shed light on defect engineering for realizing extra faradaic capacitance of carbon materials, and open up new opportunities for improving EC's energy density.
A Pseudo Planar Heterojunction Structure for Eco‐Friendly Printable Organic Solar Cells Achieving 19.05% Efficiency
Authors: Wang Pei , Zhang Jiayou , Luo Dou , Xue Jingwei , Zhang Lifu , Mao Houdong , Wang Yilin , Yu Chongbin , Ma Wei , Chen Yiwang
Published: April 2024

Obtaining a well‐accurate vertical distribution active layer morphology through the air‐printing process is an essential task for achieving efficient scalable large‐area organic solar cells (OSCs). In this target, the desired and controllable pseudo planar heterojunction (PPHJ) active layer structure with suitable phase separation is developed by pre‐deposited D18‐Cl layer under the PM6:BTP‐eC9 film via an eco‐friendly manufacturing method. The addition of the D18‐Cl regulates molecular crystallization and leads to an ideal vertical stratification while simultaneously suppressing voltage loss, optimizing energetic disorder, and carrier management. Impressively, the optimal PPHJ devices perform superior power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 19.05% (100 nm), 17.33% (300 nm), and 14.14% (4 cm2) compared to the BHJ devices. Importantly, the PPHJ OSCs also exhibit an impressive extrapolated T80 (the time required to reach 80% of initial PCE) of long‐time storage and operational stability, as well as thermal stability.
D‐cysteine‐Derived Carbon Dots for Selective Discrimination, Imaging, and Synergistic Elimination of Gram‐Positive Bacteria and Fungi
Authors: Song Wenzhu , Wang Xuexiao , Nong Shuli , Wang Mengru , Kang Shengmei , Wang Feng , Xu Li
Published: April 2024

Microbial infections pose a significant threat to public health, exacerbated by the escalating issue of antibiotic resistance resulting from their overuse. Chiral carbon dots (CDs) not only inherit the antibacterial properties of CDs but also demonstrate highly selective chiral bactericidal activity. This study focuses on the development of chiral CDs synthesized from D‐ and L‐cysteine, to selectively identify and synergistically eradicate Gram‐positive bacteria and fungi. Chiral CDs exhibit high efficacy in staining Gram‐positive bacteria and fungi while demonstrating minimal to no fluorescence with Gram‐negative bacteria, attributable to variances in the membrane structures of these pathogens. D‐CDs exhibit stronger fluorescence signals and greater antibacterial efficacy against Gram‐positive bacteria and fungi compared to L‐CDs. Under dual light irradiation, D‐CDs bolster antibacterial activity through a triple‐modal mechanism, involving membrane disruption in the absence of light, singlet oxygen generation during photodynamic therapy, and elevated temperature during photothermal treatment. Animal studies additionally showcase that D‐CDs notably enhanced the healing of wounds infected with S. aureus under laser light exposure. This investigation underscores the chiral‐specific imaging and antibacterial potentials of D‐CDs, paving the way for the advancement of chiral nanomaterials in bacterial diagnostics and therapy.
Recyclable Nanomotors for Dynamic Enrichment and Detection of Low‐Concentration Emerging Pollutants
Authors: Geng Zhiqin , Li Junyang , Deng Tangtang , Nie Xinming , Meng Xin , Han Weiqing , Wei Kajia , Qu Lulu
Published: April 2024

Emerging pollutants, known for their high toxicity, pose significant risks to human health and the environment. However, the identification of these pollutants is difficult and costly due to their low concentration and complex composition. Here, a cost‐effective and scalable identification method is demonstrated to rapidly concentrate and detect emerging pollutants at ultra‐low concentrations. The approach takes advantage of responsive autonomous propulsion R‐Fe3O4@Au@β‐CD‐EG‐PF127 (RAP) nanomotors driven by magnetism, to significantly enhance the efficiency of pollutant adsorption in large‐scale water. Owing to the fast driving capability and multi‐interaction mechanism, nanomotors can effectively capture trace concentrations of emerging pollutants, achieving a capture efficiency of over 90%, while also ensuring that all captured pollutants fall within the enhanced electromagnetic field range of the nanomotors. This leads to highly sensitive surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) signals with detection limits as low as 10−10 m. Contaminated nanomotors showcase significant self‐cleaning capabilities that can be activated through temperature variations, resulting in a substantial reduction in detection expenses. Even after undergoing cyclic experiments, the nanomotors consistently exhibit remarkable capture efficiency and outstanding SERS sensitivity. This work can provide a scalable and practical technical solution to eliminate and monitor the transport of emerging pollutants in the environment.
Squeezing the Threshold of Metal‐Halide Perovskite Micro‐Crystal Lasers Grown by Solution Epitaxy
Authors: Zhou Shuyu , Rehm Viktor , Afify Hany A. , Han Yufei , Korczak Jędrzej , Szczerbakow Andrzej , Story Tomasz , Peng Zijian , These Albert , Barabash Anastasia , Osvet Andres , Brabec Christoph J. , Götz Klaus , Unruh Tobias , Hilpert Felix , Brummel Olaf , Libuda Jörg , Heiss Wolfgang
Published: April 2024

Metal halide perovskite semiconductors have demonstrated remarkable progress not only in photovoltaics and X‐ray detection but also in laser technologies. Particularly appealing is the simplicity with which micro‐crystallites can be epitaxially grown, thereby forming micro‐resonators suitable for lasing. Here, the laser threshold is optimized by selecting excitation laser parameters and by improving material quality. The latter process is conducted for formamidinium lead tribromide, emitting in the green spectral range. Depending on the growth method and parameters, the sizes of the micro‐resonators can be tuned between ≈3 and 23 micrometers. Under laser excitation systematically lower thresholds are observed for micro‐resonators in the 4–7 micrometer size range, than for larger ones, irrespective of growth method. Among three optimized growth methods, epitaxial growth via antisolvent vapor‐assisted crystallization exhibits the smallest threshold powers, indicating the highest material quality. This conclusion is supported by hyperspectral microscopic luminescence imaging and by transient photoluminescence. The best laser structures exhibit record threshold powers for epitaxially grown perovskites, indicating that the selected antisolvent vapor epitaxial growth holds great promises also for other perovskite materials.
In Situ Engineering Cancer Mask to Immobilize Tumor Cells and Block Metastasis
Authors: Zhang Xiaoke , Li Cheng , Zhu Dan , Mao Hui , Jiang Xiqun
Published: April 2024

This work reports a new concept of cancer mask in situ to alter the specific biological functions of cancer cells. Metastatic cancer cells are highly invasive in part due to the presence of the glycan matrix in the cell membrane. Using a rational designed bio‐orthogonal reaction, the cancer cell surface is reconstructed in situ by incorporating endogenous polysialic acids in the glycan matrix on the cell membrane to form a mesh‐like network, called cancer mask. The network of the glycan matrix can not only immobilize cancer cells but also effectively block the stimulation of metastasis promoters to tumor cells and inhibit the formation of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), causing metastatic cancer cells incarceration. The results demonstrate a new strategy to control and even eliminate the cancer metastasis that is a major cause of treatment failure and poor patient outcome.
Combination of Counterion Size and Doping Concentration Determines the Electronic and Thermoelectric Properties of Semiconducting Polymers
Authors: Baustert Kyle N. , Bombile Joel H. , Rahman Md Tawabur , Yusuf Augustine O. , Li Ruipeng , Huckaba Aron J. , Risko Chad , Graham Kenneth R.
Published: April 2024

In both chemical and electrochemical doping of organic semiconductors (OSCs), a counterion, either from the electrolyte or ionized dopant, balances the charge introduced to the OSC. Despite the large influence of this counterion on OSC optical and electronic response, there remains substantial debate on how a fundamental parameter, ion size, impacts these properties. This work resolves much of this debate by accounting for two doping regimes. In the low‐doping regime, the Coulomb binding energies between charge carriers on the OSC and the counterions are significant, and larger counterions lead to decreased Coulomb interactions, more delocalized charge carriers, and higher electrical conductivities. In the high‐doping regime, the Coulomb binding energies become negligible due to the increased dielectric constant of the films and a smoothing of the energy landscape; thereby, the electrical conductivities depend primarily on the extent of morphological disorder in the OSC. Moreover, in regioregular poly(3‐hexylthiophene), rr‐P3HT, smaller counterions lead to greater bipolaron concentrations in the low‐doping regime due to the increased Coulomb interactions. Emphasizing the impact of the counterion size, it is shown that larger counterions can lead to increased thermoelectric power factors for rr‐P3HT.
Multi‐Parametric Decision System for Analytical Performance Assessment of Electrochemical (Bio)Sensors
Authors: Moreira Daniel C. , Carvalho Duarte Nuno , Santos Evelyn C. , Relvas João B. , Neves Miguel António Dias , Mendes Pinto Inēs
Published: April 2024

Miniaturized three‐electrode electrochemical sensors (MES) are widely used in the advancement of innovative technologies for remote sensing applications. MESs consist of conductive electrodes that are applied onto an inert solid substrate using various techniques, such as photolithography, electroplating, and screen printing. Typical MES systems comprise working (WE) and counter (CE) electrodes based on gold (Au), paired with a reference electrode (RE) based on silver (Ag). This configuration is commonly selected due to Au's high conductivity, low resistance, and compatibility with robust organothiol chemistries, especially for the WE. Moreover, Ag is often preferred for REs owing to its low toxicity, stability, and high conductivity. Nevertheless, in uncontrolled environments outside of cleanrooms, both Au and Ag surfaces are prone to atmospheric contamination, resulting in significant sensor variability and compromised analytical performance. Therefore, it is crucial to integrate a pre‐processing stage into the sensor manufacturing process to guarantee the quality and cleanliness of MES electrode surfaces for sensor functionalization and precise electrochemical measurements. Considering the potential negative effects of methods tailored for a specific electrode material on another material, this study extensively investigates 18 different treatment methods for MESs incorporating Au CEs and WEs, along with Ag REs. Employing a multi‐parametric analysis, this study aims to identify the most effective treatment for a variety of electrode materials, thereby improving analytical accuracy and reproducibility for subsequent MES (bio)sensor applications.
Recent Advances in Bioinspired Soft Robots: Fabrication, Actuation, Tracking, and Applications
Authors: Ye Zhicheng , Zheng Limeng , Chen Wenfu , Wang Ben , Zhang Li
Published: April 2024

Natural organisms offer a rich source for the construction of soft robots exhibiting autonomous and intelligent behaviors, encompassing attributes like motion, perception, and adaptability to environmental shifts. Drawing inspiration from these biological models, a multitude of soft robots have emerged, each distinguished by unique structures and functionalities enabling diverse actions, including swimming, crawling, swinging, walking, and tumbling. In this review, several soft robots and their motion modes from the perspective of specific native species are addressed. The actuation methods of soft robots are discussed, encompassing chemical, electrical, ultrasonic, optical, and magnetic actuation mechanisms. Furthermore, the application domains of soft robots, encompassing areas such as vessel recanalization, targeted drug delivery, cargo manipulation, and sensing are explored, providing a concise summary of their roles and potentials. The current challenges encountered in this research field are highlighted, and promising directions pertaining to soft robots are emphasized.
Engineering Waveguide Nonlinear Effective Length via Low Index Thin Films
Authors: Jaffray Wallace , Ali Farhan , Stengel Sven , Guo Ziheng , Schulz Sebastian A. , Di Falco Andrea , Ferrera Marcello
Published: April 2024

Novel photonic nanowires are fabricated using low‐index materials and tested in the near‐infrared spectrum to assess their nonlinear optical properties. In this work, the need to redefine the standard nonlinear figure of merit in terms of nonlinear phase shift and optical transmission for a given propagation distance is argued. According to this new metric, the devices largely outperform all established platforms for optical modules with a linear footprint in the range of 50–500 µm, which is demonstrated to be an outstanding technological gap. For 85 fs pulses, with carrier wavelength at 1480 nm and sub‐µW power levels, a spectral broadening exceeding 80% of the initial bandwidth was recorded over a propagation length of just 50 µm. Leveraging on CMOS‐compatible processes and well‐established materials such as silicon, silica, and indium tin oxide, the devices bring great promise for developing alternative all‐optical devices with unparalleled nonlinear performances within the aforementioned range.
Robust Self‐powered Optoelectronic Synapses Based on Epitaxial InSe/GaN Heterojunction with Interfacial Charge‐Trapping Layer
Authors: Miao Xuecen , Zhang Yinuo , Lin Yunan , Lei Hong , Min Tai , Pan Yi
Published: April 2024

Neuromorphic devices that parallelize perception, preprocessing, and computation functions are expected to play a significant role in future non‐von Neumann architecture computers. Herein, a new retina‐inspired broadband self‐powered optoelectronic synaptic device based on 2D/3D heterojunction of epitaxial InSe on GaN(0001) is reported. Few‐layer n‐type InSe is grown on p‐type GaN by physical vapor deposition in an ultra‐high vacuum (UHV) environment. The devices are fabricated using a shadow mask assisted UHV electrode deposition technique. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy images reveal that an atomically thin amorphous layer, which induces highly efficient charge trapping, is formed at the InSe/GaN interface. The photoresponse spans from visible to near‐infrared, and the response time is prolonged to 103 ms owing to the deep trapping levels. Thus, synaptic functions, including excitatory postsynaptic current, paired‐pulse facilitation with a high index of up to 170%, short‐term plasticity, and high‐pass filtering characteristics, are realized. Additionally, the synapses demonstrated the merit of realizing image sharpening and arithmetic operations on the same device under infrared and visible light illumination. This study provides a new platform of 2D/3D heterostructures for robust optoelectronic synapses that may find applications in post‐Moore era neuromorphic vision systems.
Cucurbituril‐Confined Tetracation Supramolecular 2D Organic Framework for Dual‐Emission TS‐FRET
Authors: Li Fan‐Fan , Huo Man , Kong Jing , Liu Yu
Published: April 2024

Herein, cucurbituril‐regulated supramolecular multi‐dimensional organic framework constructed is reported by tetraphenylvinyl grafted bromophenylpyridine salt derivatives (TPE‐BrN) and cucurbit[n]uril (n = 6, 7, 8) via non‐covalent cross‐linked, giving supramolecular macrocycle‐confined fluorescence‐phosphorescence dual emission at 560 and 510 nm in solid state. Different from the formation of TPE‐BrN⊂CB[6] complexes and TPE‐BrN⊂CB[7] nanoparticle, TPE‐BrN⊂CB[8] manifested high‐efficient 2D network assembly. TPE‐BrN⊂CB[8] assembly can effectively activate triplet‐state to singlet‐state Förster resonance energy transfer (TS‐FRET) with long‐lived near‐infrared emission at 675 nm via doping organic dye Nile red (NiR) and the energy transfer efficiency reached up to 99%. Although CB[7] can also induce the typical phosphorescence emission at 510 nm, there is no TS‐FRET occurring after doping NiR into TPE‐BrN⊂CB[7] assembly due to the formation of different assembly modes. The multicolor long‐lived emission has been demonstrated very well based on the TS‐FRET process activated by CB[8] macrocyclic confined 2D organic framework, which can be successfully applied to fingerprint imaging and the construction of logic gate systems. It provides a novel method for supramolecular macrocycle confined phosphorescence regulation and the development of luminescent materials.
Structural, Optical, and Electronic Properties of Epitaxial β‐(AlxGa1‐x)2O3 Films for Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Liu Fenhong , Li Yonghui , Cheng Hongwei , Jin Chao , Liu Changlong
Published: April 2024

Bandgap engineering in monoclinic gallium oxide (β‐Ga2O3) is a powerful strategy for designing semiconductor optoelectronic devices with specific functionalities. In this work, aluminum doping is utilized to modulate the bandgap of Ga2O3. By growing epitaxial β‐(AlxGa1‐x)2O3 (0≤ x≤ 0.84) films on c‐plane sapphire substrates using RF magnetron sputtering, it allowed to tune the energy bandgap, achieving values as high as 6.10 eV. The increased luminescence intensity is attributed to the recombination between donor and acceptor transitions induced by Al doping, resulting in more defects. Additionally, the luminescent band experienced blueshifts due to the enhanced bandgaps. Moreover, density of functional theory (DFT) simulations confirmed the sensitivity of the bandgap to Al content, distinguishing between Ga‐dominated (x <  0.5) and Al‐dominated (x >  0.5) β‐(AlxGa1‐x)2O3. Notably, the bandgap increased more rapidly in Ga‐dominated structures compared to Al‐dominated ones. The electronic structure analysis revealed a redistribution of Ga d states from valence to conduction bands, attributed to the introduction of numerous Al p states. These combined experimental and detailed electronic structure investigations proved crucial insights for designing the structure and exploring potential applications of β‐(AlxGa1‐x)2O3 in photonic devices.
Selective Hydro‐ and Deuterodechlorination of Trichloroacetamides under Controlled Electrochemical Conditions To Prepare Mono‐, Di‐, and Deuterochloroacetamides
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Manas , Bera Biman , Pathak Swastik , Bhunia Dipendu , Bhadra Sayan , Patra Snehangshu , Pal Chowdhury Manish , Escorihuela Jorge , Bera Mrinal K.
Published: April 2024

Mono‐ and dichloro acetamides were prepared via a hydrodechlorination reaction of trichloroacetamides under controlled electrochemical conditions. The reactions were carried out in an undivided cell with constant current flow using n‐Bu4NI as supporting electrolyte and methanol as solvent and proton source. Deuterodechlorination of trichloroacetamide was also successful when methanol‐d4 was used as solvent under identical electrochemical conditions.
Inhibition of ALDOA‐ and ENO1‐Mediated Glycolysis of Oridonin as a Novel Antitumor Strategy of Non‐Small‐Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Lu Tianming , Wang Qixin , Zhao Minghong , Chen Lin , Dai Chuanhao , Tang Huan , Guo Qiuyan , Wang Jigang
Published: April 2024

Non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer. Oridonin (ORI), the main pharmacodynamic component of the Chinese herb Herba Rabdosiae with anticancer activity is reported to inhibit various types of cancer including NSCLC. However, its direct target proteins acting on NSCLC still require further investigation. Here, the direct protein profile is analyzed and the key targets of ORI are identified by combining activity‐based protein profiling (ABPP) and the cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA). As a result, ORI can significantly promote Lewis Lung Carcinoma (LLC) cell apoptosis, decrease mitochondrial membrane potential, and increase reactive oxygen species accumulation. In addition, both ABPP and CETSA indicate that ORI directly binds to key proteins of the glycolysis pathway, including Aldolase A (ALDOA), Enolase 1 (ENO1), pyruvate kinase M2, and lactate dehydrogenase. Based on the LLC mouse model, ORI markedly inhibits the growth of lung tumors, increases the serum levels of antioxidant enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase, and reduces the production of malondialdehyde. To sum up, ORI can be regarded as a novel antitumor strategy of NSCLC by inhibiting ALDOA‐ and ENO1‐mediated glycolysis.
A High‐Entropy Single‐Atom Catalyst Toward Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Acidic and Alkaline Conditions
Authors: Tamtaji Mohsen , Kim Min Gyu , WANG Jun , Galligan Patrick Ryan , Zhu Haoyu , Hung Faan‐Fung , Xu Zhihang , Zhu Ye , Luo Zhengtang , Goddard William A. , Chen GuanHua
Published: April 2024

The design of high‐entropy single‐atom catalysts (HESAC) with 5.2 times higher entropy compared to single‐atom catalysts (SAC) is proposed, by using four different metals (FeCoNiRu‐HESAC) for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Fe active sites with intermetallic distances of 6.1 Å exhibit a low ORR overpotential of 0.44 V, which originates from weakening the adsorption of OH intermediates. Based on density functional theory (DFT) findings, the FeCoNiRu‐HESAC with a nitrogen‐doped sample were synthesized. The atomic structures are confirmed with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X‐ray absorption (XAS), and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). The predicted high catalytic activity is experimentally verified, finding that FeCoNiRu‐HESAC has overpotentials of 0.41 and 0.37 V with Tafel slopes of 101 and 210 mVdec−1 at the current density of 1 mA cm−2 and the kinetic current densities of 8.2 and 5.3 mA cm−2, respectively, in acidic and alkaline electrolytes. These results are comparable with Pt/C. The FeCoNiRu‐HESAC is used for Zinc–air battery applications with an open circuit potential of 1.39 V and power density of 0.16 W cm−2. Therefore, a strategy guided by DFT is provided for the rational design of HESAC which can be replaced with high‐cost Pt catalysts toward ORR and beyond.
An Aqueous All‐Quinone‐Based Redox Flow Battery Employing Neutral Electrolyte
Authors: Yang Gaojing , Zhu Yaxun , Hao Zhimeng , Zhang Qiu , Lu Yong , Yan Zhenhua , Chen Jun
Published: April 2024

Redox flow batteries (RFBs) are considered as promising candidates for large‐scale energy storage. However, traditional RFBs based on toxic metal ions have deficiencies in resource utilization and environmental protection. Considering the corrosiveness of acidic and alkaline electrolytes and sustainability of energy storage devices, neutral aqueous organic redox flow batteries (AORFBs) have more development prospects. Herein, an AORFB is reported, using 9,10‐anthraquinone‐2,7‐disulfonic salt (2,7‐AQDS) and 1,4‐dihydroxyphenylsulfonate potassium (HQS) as negative and positive electroactive materials, respectively. It is found that the anions in the neutral solution further affected the solubility and kinetics of the electroactive materials by affecting the hydrogen bond in the solution, and the Na2SO4 solution showed the optimal comprehensive performance. Therefore, an all‐quinone AORFB employing neutral Na2SO4 electrolytes with a cell voltage of 0.9 V is constructed, which presented a capacity utilization of 70.1% and delivered stable cycling performance at 60 mA cm−2. This work designs an innovative neutral all‐quinone AORFB and points out how anions affect the properties of the electrolyte by affecting hydrogen bonds within the solution. These findings open a new avenue for the design and application of neutral all‐organic aqueous RFBs.
Quantitative Surface Passivation Through Drop‐on‐Demand Inkjet Printing Enables Highly Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Tan Li , Jiang Hengyi , Yang Rui , Shen Lina , Sun Chao , Jin Yongbin , Guan Xiang , Song Peiquan , Zheng Lingfang , Tian Chengbo , Xie Liqiang , Yang Jinxin , Wei Zhanhua
Published: April 2024

Deposition of a passivation layer on top of the perovskite is proven to be an effective method for improving the efficiency and long‐term stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). And the spin‐coating method is the most typical and popular method developed for this purpose. However, the spin‐coating method wastes substantial passivator materials, thus the quantitative relationship between the passivator amount and the device performance cannot be obtained. Herein, a quantitative deposition method is developed through drop‐on‐demand inkjet printing to investigate the influence of 2‐adamantylamine hydrochloride (2‐ADAHCl) deposition surface density on the device performance, which is found to have a significant impact on the device performance. A low deposition surface density of 1.1 µg cm−2 does not reach its optimum passivation capability. In contrast, an excess deposition surface density of 10.1 µg cm−2 would lead to energy level mismatch and large series resistance at the perovskite/hole transport layer (HTL) interface, thus resulting in inferior device properties. At an optimum deposition surface density of 2.5 µg cm−2, perovskite surface defects are greatly suppressed, and the interfacial contact between perovskite and HTL is improved. Finally, PSCs with a high efficiency of 24.57% are achieved with improved operational and environmental stabilities.
Validity evidence for a team‐leading assessment tool in pediatric emergency resuscitations using video review
Authors: Hartwell Victoria , Edmunds Katherine , Elliott Laura , Williams Brenda , Menk Paul T. , Geis Gary L.
Published: April 2024

Background

Effective leadership of health care action teams has demonstrated positive influence on team performance and patient care, but there is no consensus on how to assess these skills. We developed a novel team leadership assessment tool for leaders of interprofessional pediatric resuscitation teams and collected validity evidence for this tool using video review.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study from November 2021 to October 2022. A novel team leadership assessment tool was developed using literature review and local expertise and then piloted and refined using medical simulation. Pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) fellows from a single tertiary care pediatric medical center were enrolled, and videos of one medical resuscitation and one trauma resuscitation were collected per fellow each month. Three reviewers underwent reviewer training and then scored the videos using the assessment tool. Raters provided feedback on feasibility and ease of use using a 5‐point Likert scale. Inter‐rater reliability for the assessment tool using Gwet's agreement coefficient and the association between performance and clinical level of training using generalized linear mixed model were calculated.

Results

Twelve PEM fellows enrolled and 146 videos were reviewed. The inter‐rater reliability for each domain ranged from 0.45 (p < 0.0001) to 0.59 (p < 0.0001), with the inter‐rater reliability of the total score being 0.49 (p < 0.0001). The reviewers’ mean ratings of the elements of the tool were as follows: clarity of the domains (4.6/5), the independence of each domain from each other (3.9/5), the ease of use of the 5‐point Likert scale (4.5/5), the usefulness of the provided examples for each domain (4.6/5), and the ability to assess each domain without having to rewatch (4.5/5). The tool differentiated between levels of clinical training for two of the six domains (p < 0.02).

Conclusions

We developed a novel team leadership assessment tool for pediatric resuscitation team leaders that demonstrated moderate inter‐rater reliability. The tool was easy to use and feasible for educators to assess the performance of PEM trainees in complex high‐stakes clinical situations.
Ultrasound‐activated in situ click chemistry to trigger autophagosome tracking for enhanced autophagy blockade and synergistic cancer therapy
Authors: Jiang Weixi , Wang Jingxue , Chen Li , Qiu Xiaoling , Du Chier , An Hongjin , Guo Xun , Wang Xiaoting , Wang Junrui , Li Pan , Wang Zhigang , Ran Haitao , Zhou Zhiyi , Chen Xiaoyuan , Zhang Jingjing , Ren Jianli
Published: April 2024

The blockade of cytoprotective autophagy has been demonstrated to effectively enhance the efficacy of sonodynamic therapy (SDT). However, the limited recognition of antiautophagy agents for autophagosomes impedes the clinical application of autophagy inhibition. To efficiently deliver hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), an autophagy inhibitor, to autophagosomes, we utilized a strategy based on in situ click chemistry between sulfhydryl (‐SH) and maleimide (Mal) groups to trigger autophagosomes tracking and suppress tumor growth synergistically. A cascade nanoreactor was synthesized by encapsulating Mal‐modified HCQ (MHCQ) into a manganese porphyrin‐based metal‐organic framework with sonosensitizer properties, followed by poly(ethylene glycol)ylated liposomal membrane coating. After ultrasound irradiation, SDT‐induced apoptotic cells released damaged proteins with free ‐SH groups, which MHCQ rapidly captured in situ via a Mal‐thiol click reaction. When autophagosomes actively wrapped damaged proteins for detoxification, they simultaneously internalized HCQ anchored on proteins. In this scenario, antiautophagy drugs could actively track intracellular autophagosomes instead of undergoing passive diffusion in the cytosol. The interaction between HCQ and autophagic vesicles was greatly enhanced, which strengthened the blocking efficiency of autophagy and resulted in complete cell death. Overall, this study with smart design provides a promising strategy for improving intracellular targeted delivery to autophagosomes, thereby enhancing antitumor therapy.
Sheared settling in viscoelastic shear‐thinning fluids: Empirical studies and model development
Authors: Anyaoku Chukwunonso Chinedu , Bhattacharya Sati , Parthasarathy Rajarathinam
Published: April 2024

The hydrotransport of settling particles using laminar flow as opposed to the more energy‐ and water‐intensive turbulent flow has remained a tentative option for industries due to the complexity in characterizing particle settling dynamics in opaque non‐Newtonian fluids under sheared conditions. To provide insight into this unknown physics, this study focused on viscoelastic shear‐thinning fluids and developed a semi‐empirical model to characterize the batch‐settling dynamics of dilute suspensions (<5 vol% solids concentration) experiencing a shear field. These suspensions consisted of spherical glass microparticles in aqueous xanthan gum solutions. Settling profiles were measured with Electrical Resistance Tomography (ERT) while a motorized belt generated a cross‐shear field. The data acquired by the ERT showed that introducing cross‐shear fields into such suspensions increased settling rates when compared with static settling contexts. Then, a semi‐empirical model describing the “acceleration phase” of the settling process was developed and validated at accuracies between 81% and 97%.
Early Colonial Diet in El Japón, Xochimilco, Mexico: Examining dietary continuity through stable isotope analysis of bone collagen and bioapatite
Authors: Alarcón Tinajero Edgar , Reitsema Laurie J. , Gómez‐Valdés Jorge A. , Márquez Morfín Lourdes
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Early colonial documents from central Mesoamerica detail raising and planting of European livestock and crops alongside native ones. The extent to which Indigenous people, especially of the rural commoner class, consumed newly introduced foods is less known. This gap in knowledge is addressed through stable isotope analysis and comparison to published archaeological botanical, human, and faunal data.

Materials and Methods

Stable isotope analysis of bone collagen and bioapatite is applied to 74 skeletal samples of Indigenous human remains representing Colonial period individuals from El Japón—a farming hamlet in the Xochimilco area—to provide insight into long‐term individual dietary practices in the context of a rapidly transforming Mesoamerican world.

Results

Carbon isotope ratios in collagen (δ13Ccollagen) average −8.10/00 VPDB (SD 0.55), while δ15N averages 8.90/00 AIR (SD 0.50). δ13Cbioapatite averages −2.90/00 VPDB (SD 0.60). Modest increase in carbon isotopic diversity is observed among more recent males from El Japón when compared to earlier males and females.

Discussion

Based on the isotopic results, it is estimated that the individuals of El Japón consumed maize or other C4 plants as a central source of carbohydrates. Dietary protein was largely supplied through domestic maize‐fed fauna but potentially supplemented by wild terrestrial and aquatic fauna and fowl. Similarity in skeletal isotopic composition between precontact Mesoamericans from other sites and El Japón individuals of both earlier and later stratigraphy is interpreted as continuity in local diets and foodways despite potentially available European alternatives. Colonial taxation demands on preexisting agricultural regimes may have incentivized maize production, thus indirectly contributing to the maize‐centered aspect of local foodways.
Experimental laboratory models as tools for understanding modifiable dementia risk
Authors: Sinclair Duncan , Canty Alison J. , Ziebell Jenna M. , Woodhouse Adele , Collins Jessica M. , Perry Sharn , Roccati Eddy , Kuruvilla Maneesh , Leung Jacqueline , Atkinson Rachel , Vickers James C. , Cook Anthony L. , King Anna E.
Published: April 2024

Experimental laboratory research has an important role to play in dementia prevention. Mechanisms underlying modifiable risk factors for dementia are promising targets for dementia prevention but are difficult to investigate in human populations due to technological constraints and confounds. Therefore, controlled laboratory experiments in models such as transgenic rodents, invertebrates and in vitro cultured cells are increasingly used to investigate dementia risk factors and test strategies which target them to prevent dementia. This review provides an overview of experimental research into 15 established and putative modifiable dementia risk factors: less early‐life education, hearing loss, depression, social isolation, life stress, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, physical inactivity, heavy alcohol use, smoking, air pollution, anesthetic exposure, traumatic brain injury, and disordered sleep. It explores how experimental models have been, and can be, used to address questions about modifiable dementia risk and prevention that cannot readily be addressed in human studies.

Highlights

Modifiable dementia risk factors are promising targets for dementia prevention.

Interrogation of mechanisms underlying dementia risk is difficult in human populations.

Studies using diverse experimental models are revealing modifiable dementia risk mechanisms.

We review experimental research into 15 modifiable dementia risk factors.

Laboratory science can contribute uniquely to dementia prevention.
Metabolomics profiling reveals distinct, sex‐specific signatures in serum and brain metabolomes in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Pandey Ravi S. , Arnold Mattias , Batra Richa , Krumsiek Jan , Kotredes Kevin P. , Garceau Dylan , Williams Harriet , Sasner Michael , Howell Gareth R. , Kaddurah‐Daouk Rima , Carter Gregory W.
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

Increasing evidence suggests that metabolic impairments contribute to early Alzheimer's disease (AD) mechanisms and subsequent dementia. Signals in metabolic pathways conserved across species can facilitate translation.

METHODS

We investigated differences in serum and brain metabolites between the early‐onset 5XFAD and late‐onset LOAD1 (APOE4.Trem2*R47H) mouse models of AD to C57BL/6J controls at 6 months of age.

RESULTS

We identified sex differences for several classes of metabolites, such as glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and amino acids. Metabolic signatures were notably different between brain and serum in both mouse models. The 5XFAD mice exhibited stronger differences in brain metabolites, whereas LOAD1 mice showed more pronounced differences in serum.

DISCUSSION

Several of our findings were consistent with results in humans, showing glycerophospholipids reduction in serum of apolipoprotein E (apoE) ε4 carriers and replicating the serum metabolic imprint of the APOE ε4 genotype. Our work thus represents a significant step toward translating metabolic dysregulation from model organisms to human AD.

Highlights

This was a metabolomic assessment of two mouse models relevant to Alzheimer's disease.

Mouse models exhibit broad sex‐specific metabolic differences, similar to human study cohorts.

The early‐onset 5XFAD mouse model primarily alters brain metabolites while the late‐onset LOAD1 model primarily changes serum metabolites.

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) ε4 mice recapitulate glycerophospolipid signatures of human APOE ε4 carriers in both brain and serum.