bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinetics of Growth and Aniline Degradation by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
Authors: Zissi Urania S. , Lyberatos Gerasimos C.
Published: August 2006

A pure bacterial culture of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, capable of using aniline as a sole carbon source, was isolated. Kinetic experiments were conducted to develop a mathematical model that describes accurately the growth and utilization rates of the microorganism on the aniline and an alternate carbon source (glucose) individually and on their mixture. The growth of microorganisms and substrate utilization could be well described by using Monod expressions for limiting substrates. The presence of glucose in the culture medium did not repress aniline catabolism but simultaneous utilization was observed. When both substrates were present, the utilization of one substrate had a considerable effect on the utilization of the other. These effects were shown to be predicted by a mathematical model based on a modified Monod expression. The proposed model was found capable of describing accurately cellular growth as well as aniline and glucose biodegradation.
Surfactant‐Enhanced Bioremediation of Soil Contaminated with 2,4,6‐Trinitrotoluene in Soil Slurry Reactors
Authors: Boopathy R. , Manning J.
Published: August 2006

The addition of food‐grade surfactants could improve the use of native soil bacteria to biodegrade explosives‐contaminated soil under co‐metabolic conditions by enhancing the rates of explosives' desorption from soil, thus increasing the bioavailability of explosives for microbial degradation. The objective of this study is to decrease residence time in the reactor, thereby increasing output and reducing cleanup costs. In this study, Tween 80 (monooleate) served not only as a surfactant but also as the carbon substrate for soil microorganisms. Four 2‐L soil slurry reactors were operated in batch mode with soil containing 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT). Results indicated that TNT was removed in all reactors except the control (no added carbon source). The reactor enriched with surfactant and molasses performed better than reactors with either molasses or surfactant alone. The TNT and its metabolite, 4‐amino‐2,6‐dinitrotoluene, were removed faster in the reactor with surfactant plus molasses (35 days) than in the reactor with molasses alone as carbon source (45 days). A radiolabeling study of the mass balance of TNT in the slurry reactors showed substantial mineralization of TNT to carbon dioxide.
Bioluminescent Reporter Bacterium for Toxicity Monitoring in Biological Wastewater Treatment Systems
Authors: Kelly C.J. , Lajoie C.A. , Layton A.C. , Sayler G.S.
Published: August 2006

Toxic shock due to certain chemical loads in biological wastewater treatment systems can result in death of microorganisms and loss of floc structure. To overcome the limitations of existing approaches to toxicity monitoring, genes encoding enzymes for light production were inserted to a bacterium (Shk 1) isolated from activated sludge. The Shk 1 bioreporter indicated a toxic response to concentrations of cadmium (0.01 to 10 000 mg/L), 2,4‐dinitrophenol (0.01 to 1 000 mg/L), and hydroquinone (0.01 to 10 000 mg/L) by reductions in initial levels of bioluminescence on exposure to the toxicant. The decrease in bioluminescence was more severe with increasing toxicant concentration. Bioluminescence did not decrease in response to ethanol concentrations up to 10 000 mg/L or to pH conditions between 6.1 and 7.9. A continuous toxicity monitoring system using this bioreporter was developed for influent wastewater and tested with hydroquinone. The reporter exhibited a rapid and proportional decrease in bioluminescence in response to increasing hydroquinone concentrations.
Hydraulic Effects on Ultraviolet Disinfection: Modification of Reactor Design
Authors: Iranpour R. , Garnas G. , Moghaddam O. , Taebi A.
Published: August 2006

Results from several recent studies of UV disinfection of reclaimed wastewater led to the conclusion that disinfection effectiveness is likely to be reduced at low flow velocities. Considerations from basic hydraulics make this likely because the formation of boundary layers along wetted surfaces in lamp banks reduces the UV dose absorbed by most of the water. Boundary layers grow thicker with decreasing mean flow velocity through the lamp bank. This analysis of disinfection is supported by two reports of hydraulic tests and a study that changed flow rates to change the estimated dose per bank of lamps and found that the proportion of viruses killed in each bank was independent of flow velocity over the observed range. Additional laboratory and computational work is suggested to test this hypothesis. If, as expected, results confirm the hypothesis, then arrays of small vanes, similar to those used in aeronautical engineering, may provide a useful countermeasure. This recommendation can be tested by the same methods used to test the hypothesis.
Long‐Term Performance of Parallel‐Flow, Bubbleless, Hollow‐Fiber‐Membrane Aerators
Authors: Voss Michael A. , Ahmed Tariq , Semmens Michael J.
Published: August 2006

Microporous hollow‐fiber membranes can be used to transfer oxygen to water without producing bubbles. The membrane aerator consists of a large number of sealed end fibers potted into an external shell. Pure oxygen is maintained inside the hollow, gas‐permeable fibers at a pressure below the bubble point, and the water to be aerated is pumped over the outside of the fibers. The concentration gradient across fiber drives the oxygen to diffuse across the porous fiber walls and dissolve directly into the water without the formation of bubbles. The process provides 100% oxygen‐transfer efficiency at a reasonable power input. Mass‐transfer characteristics of membrane aerators are reviewed and laboratory test and evaluation procedures are presented in this paper. Field tests were conducted to evaluate the performance of the aerator in a variety of water and wastewater treatment applications. These tests have confirmed that membrane aerators can be used successfully over long periods of time without substantial loss of oxygen‐transfer efficiency.
Treatment of a Wastewater Containing Nitrification‐Inhibiting Oximes Using a Single‐Sludge Nitrogen Removal Treatment System
Authors: Lubkowitz Bailey Erika , Love Nancy G.
Published: August 2006

A study was conducted of an ammonia‐intensive chemical process industry that is located in a nutrient‐sensitive watershed region. The industry's wastewater contains significant levels of ammonia and a class of compounds called oximes, some of which have been shown to strongly inhibit nitrification. Laboratory experiments were initiated with a synthetic wastewater containing readily biodegradable compounds plus oximes to demonstrate a single‐sludge multiple oxidation–reduction (anaerobic/aerobic) biological treatment scheme that would enable carbon and ammonia oxidation, despite the presence of oximes. The specific oximes used in this study were methyl ethyl ketoxime (MEKO), acetaldehyde oxime (AAO), and aldicarb oxime (ADO), all of which have been shown to inhibit nitrification. A denitrifying sequencing batch reactor (SBR) and off‐line anaerobic batch experiments were used to determine the fate of these oximes and the kinetics of oxime degradation. Results show that MEKO was biologically degraded under nitrate‐limiting, anaerobic conditions only. Similar yet slower degradation trends were observed for AAO, while ADO was stable under all experimental conditions examined. A denitrifying/anaerobic/aerobic SBR was successfully operated so that complete ammonia oxidation and acceptable chemical oxygen demand removal were achieved over the course of a single reaction cycle, despite the presence of MEKO and AAO at concentrations higher than levels that have been shown to cause significant nitrification inhibition.
The Decomposition Kinetics of Monocrotophos in Aqueous Solutions by the Hydrogen Peroxide–Ozone Process
Authors: Ku Young , Wang Wen
Published: August 2006

Decomposition of monocrotophos in an aqueous solution by the hydrogen peroxide–ozone (H2O2–O3) process was studied under various solution pHs and H2O2–O3) molar ratios. Experimental results indicated that monocrotophos could be almost completely (>95%) decomposed by the H2O2–O3) process within 20 minutes. Formation of carbon dioxide was observed, followed by the formation of nitrate and phosphate. A simplified kinetic model, consisting of three two‐step consecutive reactions based on elemental mass balances, was found to accurately describe the temporal behaviors of reacting species during the decomposition of monocrotophos in aqueous solution by the H2O2–O3) process. In most experiments, acidic conditions favored the disappearance of monocrotophos, possibly because of breakage of the carbon–carbon double bond to form various organic intermediates, but mineralization of organic intermediates by free radical hydroxyl (OH·) attack was more favored in alkaline conditions. The decomposition of monocrotophos by the H2O2–O3) process was found to be significantly affected by the mode of H2O2 addition. For the batch mode of H2O2 addition, increased H2O2 dose reduced the decomposition rate, possibly because large amounts of H2O2 added initially served as a scavenger for OH· free radicals. For the continuous mode of H2O2 addition, increased H2O2 dose accelerated reaction rates of monocrotophos until an optimum H2O2–O3) molar ratio was reached, which was found to vary for different solution pHs.
Biological Fluidized‐Bed Treatment of Wastewater from Byproduct Coking Operations: Full‐Scale Case History
Authors: Sutton Paul M. , Hurvid Jim , Hoeksema Martin
Published: August 2006

The Algoma Steel byproduct coke plant consists of three coke‐oven batteries capable of producing approximately 3 000 t/d of coke. The source of the primary process wastewater from the coke plant is the excess flushing liquor or weak ammonia liquor produced during initial cooling of coke‐oven gases. This raw liquor stream is directed to an ammonia still where ammonia is recovered through steam stripping. Wastewater is then directed to a biological treatment plant designed for phenolics removal. The biological treatment scheme used at Algoma is a fluidized‐bed reactor (FBR) system. Design of the system anticipated a median phenolic load of 1 117 kg/d (2 463 lb/d), consisting of a phenolics concentration of 1 012 mg/L in the wastewater and a flow of 46.1 m3/h (203 gpm). Nine days after start‐up, the FBRs were receiving more than 40 m3/h of wastewater containing 1 000 mg/L of phenolics and an approximately equal amount of clean mill water, added as dilution water for temperature control. Effluent from the system contained less than 5 mg/L phenolics. During a 6‐week performance assessment of the system, which began approximately 2 weeks after process start‐up, FBRs achieved more than 99% phenolics reduction based on diluted wastewater feed concentration. Approximately 5 weeks after process start‐up, thiocyanate in the effluent was reduced to less than 5 mg/L, representing approximately 95% removal based on diluted wastewater feed concentration. At this time the biomass concentration, measured as volatile solids, in the FBRs was greater than 15 g/L.
Field Evaluation of an Online Foster Parent Training System
Authors: Buzhardt Jay , Heitzman-Powell Linda
Published: August 2006

The authors developed and evaluated an online foster parent training system designed specifically for low-bandwidth Internet connections and individuals with limited Internet/computer experience. After preliminary onsite evaluations, a 2-week field test was conducted to evaluate the following dimensions: foster parents' pre- to post-test scores on two training modules; user satisfaction ratings; foster parent dropout rate; and amount of communication between participants and researchers. Foster parents made statistically significant pre-/post-test gains in both content areas (Pre-test M1 = 46.6%, Post-test M1 = 86.4; Pre-test M2 = 46.6%, Post-test M2 = 92.6%), both foster parents and social workers gave the system high ratings on all satisfaction survey items, and the foster parent dropout rate was 27%. Future research and implications for the foster care system are discussed.
Design and Implementation of a Web-Based Portfolio for Aspiring Educational Leaders: A Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Model
Authors: Redish Traci , Webb Linda , Jiang Binbin
Published: August 2006

Following a programmatic model for change, one new educational leadership department describes the process involved to design, develop, and implement a Web-portfolio to integrate, document, and evaluate leadership experiences of aspiring school leaders in a graduate education program. To ensure the successful implementation of the Web-portfolios, the department followed Barrett's model—vision, skills, incentives, resources, and action plan [1]. Each aspect of the model is described as the department migrates from a traditional paper-based portfolio to a Web-portfolio that scaffolds the development process through the use of a template—and at the same time—maintains the creativity of expression that has always been the hallmark of paper-based portfolios. Through the implementation of Web-portfolios, leadership candidates are given the opportunity to use a variety of artifact types including text, graphics, video, audio, photographs, and animations, to serve as evidence of their acquisition of the knowledge, skills and dispositions required of an effective school leader.
Reconsidering Online Course Discussions: A Case Study
Authors: Yukselturk Erman , Top Ercan
Published: August 2006

This study analyzed discussions in asynchronous and synchronous communication of a course given in the online Information Technologies Certificate Program, using Bales's Interaction Process Analysis model. This model focuses on Social Emotional (SE) and Task Oriented (TO) areas. The content analyses of asynchronous and synchronous communication transcripts showed that posted messages were related to both task- and social-oriented area, but mainly to task-oriented ones. The instructors' and participants' TO messages are mainly related with attempted answers to the questions. Instructors and the participants posted more positive reactions messages than negative reactions messages in the SE area. Also, semi-structured interviews with participants and instructors were conducted to investigate findings which revealed complementary results to the content analysis. Moreover, discussion list was used mainly by participants by asking questions or getting answers and instructors' guided chat sessions to discuss critical issues in course topics by asking questions.
Reach, the New European Chemicals Policy: What for?
Authors: Musu Tony
Published: August 2006

In October 2003 the European Commission adopted a proposal for a regulation aimed at radically recasting the Community policy on chemical substances. This proposed reform, known as REACH, sets up an overall system for the registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemicals. The objectives of REACH are to ensure a high level of protection for human health and the environment while strengthening the competitive position of the European chemical industry. How to strike that delicate balance remains riven with controversy. While intense lobbying by industry has substantially reduced the REACH requirements on the producers of chemicals, big changes in the management of chemical risks in Europe are still in the making. The reform which has yet to be approved by the Council and Parliament in a co-decision procedure represents a real opportunity to reduce the number of chemical-related occupational diseases.
Design, Development, and Validation of Learning Objects
Authors: Nugent Gwen , Soh Leen-Kiat , Samal Ashok
Published: August 2006

A learning object is a small, stand-alone, mediated content resource that can be reused in multiple instructional contexts. In this article, we describe our approach to design, develop, and validate Shareable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) compliant learning objects for undergraduate computer science education. We discuss the advantages of a learning object approach, including positive student response and achievement, extension to other settings and populations, and benefits to the instructor and developers. Results confirm our belief that the use of modular, Web-based learning objects can be used successfully for independent learning and are a viable option for distance delivery of course components.
Manifestation of Pre-Service Teachers' Interpersonal Skills: Effects of Simulated and Real Experience
Authors: Lee Seungyoun , Powell Jack V.
Published: August 2006

In this study, we investigated whether the “Interpersonal Relationship Skills with Co-Workers” component of a computerized simulation influenced pre-service early childhood teachers' perception on issues and strategies for implementation of interpersonal relationship skills with co-workers before and after four weeks of field experience. Quantitative analysis such as Chi-square, Somer's d, Gamma, Correlation, and Regression were used to analyze the difference in their perception between before and after their field experience. As a result, significant differences were found with Somer's d (.455, p = .000), Gamma (.717, p = .000), Pearson's R (.507, p = .019), Spearman correlation (.577, p = .006), and regression analysis ( b = .385, p = .019, R2 = .257). These results indicate that pre-service early childhood teachers who have experienced simulation about interpersonal relationships tend to perceive the effectiveness of simulation programs as an instrument for them to acquire teaching and learning experiences related to interpersonal relationship skills. Qualitative analysis results also indicate that the computer simulation was a promising tool for pre-service early childhood teachers to become prepared for the teaching profession, particularly on interpersonal relationships with co-workers. However, for a better computer simulation, as early childhood teachers mentioned, the problems and events with various grade levels should be developed more concretely and realistically in computer simulations.
Critical Considerations on EU Health and Safety Measures: Case Notes and Prospects
Authors: Vogel Laurent
Published: August 2006

In March 2002, the European Commission adopted a Communication on the Community health-at-work strategy for 2002–2006. What is the score sheet as the period draws to a close and discussions start up on a new strategy through 2012? What has it achieved? Where are the roadblocks? And most of all, what does it tell us for the future? Here is a brief report card and some more general thoughts on the Community health-at-work strategy.
Barriers and Facilitators to Implementing an Evidence-Based Community Health Worker Model
Authors: Schriger Simone H. , Knowles Molly , Daglieri Talia , Kangovi Shreya , Beidas Rinad S.
Published: March 2024

Importance

Community health worker (CHW) programs may improve health outcomes, increase quality of life, and reduce hospitalizations and cost of care. However, knowledge is limited on the barriers and facilitators associated with scaling evidence-based CHW programs to maximize their public health outcomes.

Objective

To identify barriers and facilitators to implementing an evidence-based CHW model.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This qualitative study examined perspectives of Individualized Management of Person-Centered Targets (IMPaCT) program staff (health system leaders, program managers, and community health workers) and patients receiving the intervention between March 9, 2020, and July 22, 2021, at 5 institutionally and geographically diverse health systems across the US. The collected data were analyzed between December 1, 2021, and April 27, 2022. Program staff were recruited via purposive sampling, and patients were recruited via convenience sampling.

Intervention

The disease-agnostic IMPaCT CHW model includes a standardized implementation approach and a structured set of theory-informed intervention components to create and achieve individualized action plans.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Interview guides were informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. A rapid qualitative analytic technique was used to identify key themes, which were categorized into barriers and facilitators associated with framework ecological domains.

Results

Of a total 41 individuals invited, 39 agreed to participate (95% response rate; mean [SD] age, 45.0 [12.6] years; 30 women). General barriers included economic and policy constraints, including insufficient funding for CHW programs, clinical integration challenges, and CHW difficulty with maintaining boundaries. Program-specific barriers included insufficiently tailored materials for certain populations and upfront and ongoing program costs. General facilitators included CHWs’ interpersonal skills and life experiences. Program-specific facilitators included the model’s strong evidence base, supportive implementation team, and program design that enabled relationship building and engagement. Additional themes were cited as both barriers and facilitators, including the COVID-19 pandemic, organizational leadership, IMPaCT training, and program fidelity.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest growing recognition of the importance of CHWs to improving health equity and population health. Barriers identified point to important policy and practice implications for CHW programs more broadly, including the need for continued attention to improving clinical integration and the need for sustainable program financing to preserve the longevity of this workforce.
COVID-19 Pandemic–Related Changes in Rates of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome
Authors: Lisonkova Sarka , Bone Jeffrey N. , Wen Qi , Muraca Giulia M. , Ting Joseph Y. , Razaz Neda , Joseph K. S.
Published: March 2024

This cross-sectional study examines COVID-19 pandemic–related changes in rates of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) and whether infants in urban or rural areas and those with low socioeconomic status were disproportionately affected.
How enzyme‐centered approaches are advancing research on cyclic oligo‐nucleotides
Authors: Wenzl Simon J. , de Oliveira Mann Carina C.
Published: March 2024

Cyclic nucleotides are the most diversified category of second messengers and are found in all organisms modulating diverse pathways. While cAMP and cGMP have been studied over 50 years, cyclic di‐nucleotide signaling in eukaryotes emerged only recently with the anti‐viral molecule 2´3´cGAMP. Recent breakthrough discoveries have revealed not only the astonishing chemical diversity of cyclic nucleotides but also surprisingly deep‐rooted evolutionary origins of cyclic oligo‐nucleotide signaling pathways and structural conservation of the proteins involved in their synthesis and signaling. Here we discuss how enzyme‐centered approaches have paved the way for the identification of several cyclic nucleotide signals, focusing on the advantages and challenges associated with deciphering the activation mechanisms of such enzymes.
OTP leaders on Part 2: Tell patients what consent means
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2024

The confidentiality regulation governing substance use disorder (SUD) treatment records has been constantly weakened since 2010. Most recently, the final rule came out (see https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.34035) which further weakens privacy, most importantly by allowing the first initial consent to release of patient information, signed by the patient, to be used forever, to go to almost anyone, except for law enforcement. When the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) jointly released that final rule, they did not comply with the requirement by Congress in the CARES Act that while sharing of information should be easier, anti‐discrimination provisions needed to be tightened. There was no addition of anti‐discrimination provisions.
Processing of High Interstitial Austenitic Steel with Powder Bed Fusion‐Laser Beam/Metal: Evolution of Chemical Inhomogeneity and Microstructural Features during Postprocessing
Authors: Kimm Janis , Hanke Stefanie , Weber Sebastian , Lentz Jonathan
Published: March 2024

Powder bed fusion‐laser beam/metal (PBF‐LB/M) additive manufacturing provides a high potential to overcome the poor machinability of nickel‐free high interstitial alloy austenitic (HIA) steels. Therefore, this study focuses on the PBF‐LB/M processability of HIA X40MnCrMoN21‐18‐2 and the effect of postprocessing on microstructure and chemical homogeneity. Samples are fabricated on a laboratory and industrial PBF‐LB/M machine and subsequently postprocessed by conventional solution annealing or hot isostatic pressing (HIP). The influence of the processing steps on the microstructure and on the chemical composition is evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, atom probe tomography, and electron backscatter diffraction. The commercially available HIA powder exerts good processability, both by optimized and predefined PBF‐LB/M parameters. Loss of Mn and N is detected after PBF‐LB/M processing. Chemical homogenization but no further change in composition occurs during postprocessing. The as‐built microstructure shows segregation of elements (N, Mo, Cr, Mn) in intercellular spaces. A thermodynamic calculation confirms that N approaches a para‐equilibrium state in the PBF‐LB/M as‐built condition, while C does not. Porosity can be reduced by thermomechanical posttreatment with HIP. At the same time, HIP partially recrystallizes the microstructure, while (Mn + Cr)2SiO4 type oxides delay recovery and recrystallization of the microstructure.
Quantum Well Growth Management to Smooth the Energy Transfer Pathway for Quasi‐2D Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Yajun , Li Dengxue , Xing Zhi , Li Jianlin , Hu Xiaotian , Hu Ting , Chen Yiwang
Published: March 2024

Two‐dimensional (2D) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) exhibit better stability compared with three‐dimensional PSCs. However, fundamental questions remain over the chemical phase space in the 2D perovskite framework. Here, phase distribution of alternating cations in the interlayer space 2D perovskite (GA(MA)nPbnI3n+1) is regulated by using potassium salt to control the assembly behavior of colloidal particles and manage the growth of quantum well. The strong affinity between the spacer cation and sulfonate can slow down the intercalation of organic spacer cations to provide a time window for the insertion of MA+, which is conducive to forming high n phase to facilitate the charge transportation. During the crystallization process, potassium salt is extruded to the grain boundary and produce a passivation effect. In this case, the ion migration channels and inlet of water and oxygen are cut off, which is beneficial for the stability of PSCs. A power conversion efficiency of 20.90% is obtained in this work, to the best knowledge, which is the highest PCE for all reported GA(MA)3Pb3I10 perovskite and the large‐area device (1.01 cm2) shows a high efficiency of 18.73 %. Besides, the devices deliver good humidity stability.
Manipulating CNT Films with Atomic Precision for Absorption Effectiveness–Enhanced Electromagnetic Interference Shielding and Adaptive Infrared Camouflage
Authors: Wu Yue , Tan Shujuan , Fang Gang , Zhang Yuqing , Ji Guangbin
Published: March 2024

Promoting advanced functional films that integrate protective behaviors for synergetic radar, infrared (IR), and visible light is confronted with extreme challenges. The effective integration of shielding capacity and IR camouflage into single‐component carbon films remains an enormous challenge because of limited conductivity and high IR absorption. In this work, carbon nanotube (CNT) films with excellent electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, switchable IR camouflage, and energy conversion are obtained via a (FCCVD) method and subsequent defect engineering strategies induced by temperature (Strategy I) and N/S co‐doping (Strategy II). Wherein the effect on the electronic configuration as well as multi‐spectra performance is deeply explored. Ascribing to the synergistic effects of strategies, defective CNT films present superior EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) with a high absorption effectiveness ratio of 86.9%, and a large span of emissivity (0.479), which provides the necessary condition for various application scenarios. Under the applied electric field excitation, the IR radiation of CNT films can adapt to rapidly changing surroundings, such as low‐high/high‐low temperatures. Besides, the desirable energy conversion performance and de‐icing can be achieved. This work supplies a feasible strategy for designing EM absorption, adaptive IR camouflage, and energy conversion to confront multiband surveillance.
Biomimetic MicroRNAs‐Selenium‐Nanocomposites for Targeted and Combined Hyperlipidemia Therapy
Authors: Li Tong , Liu Libing , Zhu Kongdi , Luo Yun , Huang Xin , Dong Yulan , Huang Jiaqiang
Published: March 2024

Hyperlipidemia is considered as a high‐risk factor for leading to coronary heart disease. MicroRNA‐148a‐3p (miR‐148a‐3p) inhibitor is a potential therapeutic target to bind low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol receptors (LDLR) for decreasing the levels of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol in plasma. However, the therapeutic effects are not ideal in the clinical translation of nucleic acids treatment, owing to the short circulation time in vivo. Therefore, a platelet membrane (PM) cloaks Se nanoparticles (SeNPs) delivery system with chitosan (CS) modifies and miR‐148a‐3p inhibitors encapsulated is designed (PM/CS‐SeNPs/miR). The PM/CS‐SeNPs/miR shows a uniform shell–core structure with a particle size of ≈90 nm. Co‐delivering miR‐148a‐3p inhibitors and Se effectively alleviate hyperlipidemia via LDLR pathway and Toll‐Like Receptor 4 (TLR‐4)/NF‐κB signaling pathway, respectively. Furthermore, coated by PM, PM/CS‐SeNPs/miR successfully prolong circulation time to 48 h in vivo and quickly target to liver with no toxicity. This dual combination therapy with miRNAs and Se based on nanoparticles targeted delivery presents a high‐performance strategy for precise hyperlipidemia treatment.
Identification of Pancreatic Metastasis Cells and Cell Spheroids by the Organelle‐Targeting Sensor Array
Authors: Zhang Guoyang , Wang Zirui , Ma Lijun , Li Jiguang , Han Jiahao , Zhu Mingguang , Zhang Zixuan , Zhang Shilong , Zhang Xin , Wang Zhuo
Published: March 2024

Pancreatic cancer is a highly malignant and metastatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer can lead to liver metastases, gallbladder metastases, and duodenum metastases. The identification of pancreatic cancer cells is essential for the diagnosis of metastatic cancer and exploration of carcinoma in situ. Organelles play an important role in maintaining the function of cells, the various cells show significant differences in organelle microenvironment. Herein, six probes are synthesized for targeting mitochondria, lysosomes, cell membranes, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lipid droplets. The six fluorescent probes form an organelles‐targeted sensor array (OT‐SA) to image pancreatic metastatic cancer cells and cell spheroids. The homology of metastatic cancer cells brings the challenge for identification of these cells. The residual network (ResNet) model has been proven to automatically extract and select image features, which can figure out a subtle difference among similar samples. Hence, OT‐SA is developed to identify pancreatic metastasis cells and cell spheroids in combination with ResNet analysis. The identification accuracy for the pancreatic metastasis cells (> 99%) and pancreatic metastasis cell spheroids (> 99%) in the test set is successfully achieved respectively. The organelles‐targeting sensor array provides a method for the identification of pancreatic cancer metastasis in cells and cell spheroids.
Textile Triboelectric Nanogenerator: Future Smart Wearable Energy‐Integration Technology
Authors: Zhao Zhizhen , Hu Youfan
Published: March 2024

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) technology based on the coupling of triboelectric effect and electrostatic induction has shown great potential in the energy‐integration field. In recent years, the emerging of textile triboelectric nanogenerators (t‐TENGs) has enabled the rapid development of wearable energy‐integration technologies. The efficient mechanical energy harvesting and self‐powered sensing capabilities of TENGs and the advantages of textiles can be combined to create t‐TENGs for the construction of smart fabrics. Herein, a comprehensive review of t‐TENGs is presented. This review begins from the working mechanism of conventional TENGs, after which the construction of triboelectric layers with fibers, yarns, and fabrics is discussed. Then, the different working modes of t‐TENGs derived from TENGs, the critical features of t‐TENGs and power management strategies are discussed. Finally, this review ends with a description of the recent progress in typical wearable applications based on t‐TENGs. The light weight, low cost, flexibility, stretchability, washability, diverse material options, and excellent electrical performance of t‐TENGs will make this technology a great choice for smart energy‐integrated wearable devices in the future.
Graphene Oxide Wrapped VO2 Nanobelts for Calendar‐Life Zn Storage Devices
Authors: Zhao Chunru , Liu Yi , Wu Xiang , Luo Shaohua
Published: March 2024

Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) are thought to be emerging energy storage systems due to their features with high safety, low cost, and eco‐friendliness. They possess potential applications in smart grids and wearable devices. However, it is still a challenge to design suitable cathode materials that matches well with anode. Herein, graphene oxide (GO) coated VO2 nanobelts are prepared through a facile hydrothermal route. The Zn//VO2@GO batteries deliver a specific capacity of 323 mA h g−1 at a current density of 0.1 A g−1. It maintains an 88% of capacity retention rate at 5 A g−1 after 1000 times cycling. Moreover, the assembled flexible cells demonstrate excellent mechanical stability under different folding conditions.
ANDClust: An Adaptive Neighborhood Distance‐Based Clustering Algorithm to Cluster Varying Density and/or Neck‐Typed Datasets
Authors: Şenol Ali
Published: March 2024

Although density‐based clustering algorithms can successfully define clusters in arbitrary shapes, they encounter issues if the dataset has varying densities or neck‐typed clusters due to the requirement for precise distance parameters, such as eps parameter of DBSCAN. These approches assume that data density is homogenous, but this is rarely the case in practice. In this study, a new clustering algorithm named ANDClust (Adaptive Neighborhood Distance‐based Clustering Algorithm) is proposed to handle datasets with varying density and/or neck‐typed clusters. The algorithm consists of three parts. The first part uses Multivariate Kernel Density Estimation (MulKDE) to find the dataset's peak points, which are the start points for the Minimum Spanning Tree (MST) to construct clusters in the second part. Lastly, an Adaptive Neighborhood Distance (AND) ratio is used to weigh the distance between the data pairs. This method enables this approach to support inter‐cluster and intra‐cluster density varieties by acting as if the distance parameter differs for each data of the dataset. ANDClust is tested on synthetic and real datasets to reveal its efficiency. The algorithm shows superior clustering quality in a good run‐time compared to its competitors. Moreover, ANDClust could effectively define clusters of arbitrary shapes and process high‐dimensional, imbalanced datasets may have outliers.
Molecular and Heterojunction Device Engineering of Solution‐Processed Conjugated Reticular Oligomers: Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Evolution through High‐Effective Exciton Separation
Authors: Zhang Boying , Gao Huimin , Kang Yazhou , Li Xiaoming , Li Qing , Zhai Pengda , Hildebrandt Diane , Liu Xinying , Wang Yue , Qiao Shanlin
Published: March 2024

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) face limited processability challenges as photoelectrodes in photoelectrochemical water reduction. Herein, sub‐10 nm benzothiazole‐based colloidal conjugated reticular oligomers (CROs) are synthesized using an aqueous nanoreactor approach, and the end‐capping molecular strategy to engineer electron‐deficient units onto the periphery of a CRO nanocrystalline lattices (named CROs‐Cg). This results in stable and processable “electronic inks” for flexible photoelectrodes. CRO‐BtzTp‐Cg and CRO‐TtzTp‐Cg expand the absorption spectrum into the infrared region and improve fluorescence lifetimes. Heterojunction device engineering is used to develop interlayer heterojunction and bulk heterojunction (BHJ) photoelectrodes with a hole transport layer, electron transport layer, and the main active layers, using a CROs/CROs‐Cg or one‐dimensional (1D) electron‐donating polymer HP18 mixed solution via spinning coating. The ITO/CuI/CRO‐TtzTp‐Cg‐HP18/SnO2/Pt photoelectrode shows a photocurrent of 94.9 µA cm‒2 at 0.4 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), which is 47.5 times higher than that of ITO/Bulk‐TtzTp. Density functional theory calculations show reduced energy barriers for generating adsorbed H* intermediates and increased electron affinity in CROs‐Cg. Mott‐Schottky and charge density difference analyses indicate enhanced charge carrier densities and accelerated charge transfer kinetics in BHJ devices. This study lays the groundwork for large‐scale production of COF nanomembranes and heterojunction structures, offering the potential for cost‐effective, printable energy systems.
Unraveling the New Role of Manganese in Nano and Microstructural Engineering of Ni‐Rich Layered Cathode for Advanced Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Park Geon‐Tae , Kim Su‐Bin , Yoon Jung‐In , Park Nam‐Yung , Kim Myoung‐Chan , Han Sang‐Mun , Kim Dong‐Hwi , Kim Min‐Su , Sun Yang‐Kook
Published: March 2024

Substantial endeavors are dedicated to advance the electrochemical performance of Ni‐rich Li[Ni1−x−yCoxMny]O2 (NCM) and Li[Ni1−x−yCoxAly]O2 (NCA) cathode, with a particular focus on doping, aimed at addressing cycling durability and thermal stability of the cathodes. Mn is widely considered an attractive dopant because of its abundance and considerably lower cost than other dopant candidates. However, despite the long history of research, the role of Mn doping remains poorly understood, confined to the historical level, and associated with crystal structural and chemical aspects. Herein, the role of Mn doping beyond its classical role is redefined, particularly in terms of cathode microstructure. Introducing excess Mn during calcination significantly engineers the nano‐ and micro‐level structural features of the peripheral grains of the Li[Ni0.910Co0.079Al0.011]O2 cathode. The microstructural modification achieved by doping with 4 mol% Mn significantly improves the electrochemical cycling performance of the cathode, extending the capacity retention up to 76.5% after 1000 cycles under fast charging conditions (3 C and 45 °C). Hence, by providing an alternative approach to redesign the structural features of the cathode, Mn doping offers a significant step toward the sustainable development of high‐performance Ni‐rich Li[Ni1−x−y−zCoxMnyAlz]O2 (NCMA) cathodes for next‐generation lithium‐ion batteries.
Total Synthesis of Alternatamides B and D
Authors: Wu Bo‐You , Lin Cheng‐Kun
Published: March 2024

The total synthesis of alternatamines B and D is outlined. Alternatamine B demonstrates moderate antibacterial activity across a broad spectrum of bacteria. Both alternatamines B and D feature an intriguing 5,6‐dibromoindole skeleton, derived from a four‐step sequence starting with 3,4‐dibromoaniline and achieving a total yield of 48 %. The key steps involve: (a) functional group modifications, including iodination, of 3,4‐dibromoaniline with two bromine substituents to obtain the Sonogashira precursor; (b) indole synthesis through Sonogashira coupling and 5‐endo‐dig cyclization; (c) carbon chain extension and introduction of the nitrogen atom at the C3 of the indole. Subsequently, the tryptamine analogue was coupled with an L‐leucine derivative through amide bond formation after deprotection, yielding alternatamide D. The first total synthesis of alternatamine B was also achieved by selectively introducing a bromine substituent at the C2 of the indole, employing optimal bromination conditions.
Cylindrically Symmetric Diffusion Model for Relativistic Heavy‐Ion Collisions
Authors: Hoelck Johannes , Wolschin Georg
Published: March 2024

A relativistic diffusion model with cylindrical symmetry, which propagates an initial state based on quantum chromodynamics in time toward a thermal equilibrium limit, is derived from nonequilibrium–statistical considerations: adapting an existing framework for Markovian stochastic processes representing relativistic phase‐space trajectories, a Fokker–Planck equation is obtained for the time evolution of particle‐number distribution functions with respect to transverse and longitudinal rapidity. The resulting partially‐evolved distribution functions are transformed to transverse‐momentum and pseudorapidity space, and compared with charged‐hadron data from the CERN Large Hadron Collider.
HST astrometry of the closest brown dwarfs‐II. Improved parameters and constraints on a third body
Authors: Bedin L. R. , Dietrich J. , Burgasser A. J. , Apai D. , Libralato M. , Griggio M. , Fontanive C. , Pourbaix D.
Published: March 2024

Located at less than two pc away, Luhman 16 AB (WISE J104915.57‐531906.1) is the closest pair of brown dwarfs and the third closest “stellar” system to Earth. An exoplanet candidate in the Luhman 16 binary system was reported in 2017 based on a weak astrometric signature in the analysis of 12 HST epochs. An additional epoch collected in 2018 and re‐analysis of the data with more advanced methods further increased the significance level of the candidate, consistent with a Neptune‐mass exoplanet orbiting one of the Luhman 16 brown dwarf components. We report the joint analysis of these previous data together with two new astrometric HST epochs we obtained to confirm or disprove this astrometric signature. Our new analysis rules out the presence of a planet orbiting one component of the Luhman 16 AB system for masses 1.5 M♆ (Neptune masses) and periods between 400 and 5000 days. However, the presence of third bodies with masses 3 M♆ and periods between 2 and 400 days (1.1 years) cannot be excluded. Our measurements make significant improvements to the characterization of this sub‐stellar binary, including its mass‐ratio 0.8305 , individual component masses 35.40.2 MꝜ and 29.40.2 MꝜ (Jupiter masses), and parallax distance 1.9960 pc 50 AU. Comparison of the masses and luminosities of Luhman 16 AB to several evolutionary models shows persistent discrepancies in the ages of the two components, but strengthens the case that this system is a member of the 51095 Myr Oceanus Moving Group.
Human split hand/foot variants are not as functional as wildtype human PRDM1 in the rescue of craniofacial defects
Authors: Truong Brittany T. , Shull Lomeli C. , Zepeda Bryan J. , Lencer Ezra , Artinger Kristin B.
Published: March 2024

Background

Split hand/foot malformation (SHFM) is a congenital limb disorder presenting with limb anomalies, such as missing, hypoplastic, or fused digits, and often craniofacial defects, including a cleft lip/palate, microdontia, micrognathia, or maxillary hypoplasia. We previously identified three novel variants in the transcription factor, PRDM1, that are associated with SHFM phenotypes. One individual also presented with a high arch palate. Studies in vertebrates indicate that PRDM1 is important for development of the skull; however, prior to our study, human variants in PRDM1 had not been associated with craniofacial anomalies.

Methods

Using transient mRNA overexpression assays in prdm1a−/− mutant zebrafish, we tested whether the PRDM1 SHFM variants were functional and could lead to a rescue of the craniofacial defects observed in prdm1a−/− mutants. We also mined previously published CUT&RUN and RNA‐seq datasets that sorted EGFP‐positive cells from a Tg(Mmu:Prx1‐EGFP) transgenic line that labels the pectoral fin, pharyngeal arches, and dorsal part of the head to examine Prdm1a binding and the effect of Prdm1a loss on craniofacial genes.

Results

The prdm1a−/− mutants exhibit craniofacial defects including a hypoplastic neurocranium, a loss of posterior ceratobranchial arches, a shorter palatoquadrate, and an inverted ceratohyal. Injection of wildtype (WT) hPRDM1 in prdm1a−/− mutants partially rescues the palatoquadrate phenotype. However, injection of each of the three SHFM variants fails to rescue this skeletal defect. Loss of prdm1a leads to a decreased expression of important craniofacial genes by RNA‐seq, including emilin3a, confirmed by hybridization chain reaction expression. Other genes including dlx5a/dlx6a, hand2, sox9b, col2a1a, and hoxb genes are also reduced. Validation by real‐time quantitative PCR in the anterior half of zebrafish embryos failed to confirm the expression changes suggesting that the differences are enriched in prx1 expressing cells.

Conclusion

These data suggest that the three SHFM variants are likely not functional and may be associated with the craniofacial defects observed in the humans. Finally, they demonstrate how Prdm1a can directly bind and regulate genes involved in craniofacial development.
Enhanced clinical outcomes with radiotherapy in diagnostically challenging intracranial plasmacytomas: Analysis of 190 cases
Authors: Feng Yuan , Zhang Zongpu , Qiu Fufang , Yang Zixiao , Xiong Ji , Zhu Wei , Wan Fangzhu , Chen Bobin , Wang Jiguang , Zhang Yi , Hua Wei
Published: March 2024

Background

Intracranial plasmacytomas are rare tumors arising from plasma cells with approximately half of the cases progressing to multiple myeloma (MM). However, there is a lack of comprehensive clinical cohort analysis on the clinical and pathological features, progression, and outcomes of intracranial plasmacytomas.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 190 cases was conducted, combining data from 38 cases in a single institution and 152 cases from the literature. Patient demographics, clinical presentations, tumor locations, imaging features, surgical treatments, and follow‐up outcomes were collected and analyzed. Survival analysis and Cox regression analysis were performed to identify prognostic factors.

Results

A total of 190 intracranial plasmacytoma patients with an average age of 55.4 years were included in the study. The preoperative misdiagnosis ratio was high at 55.3%, and 59.7% of the tumors affected the calvaria convexity, compared to 40.3% located at the skull base. Resection and biopsy were achieved in 72.4% and 27.6% patients, respectively. Among them, 34.2% (65/190) of patients were initially diagnosed with MM with intracranial plasmacytoma as their first presentation (MM‐IPFP), while 63.2% (120/190) of patients were diagnosed with solitary intracranial plasmacytoma (SIP), including 61 extramedullary plasmacytomas and 59 solitary bone plasmacytomas. In the SIP group, 22.4% (24/107) of patients experienced disease progression leading to the development of MM during a median follow‐up time of 42.6 months (range 1–230 months). Multivariate analysis unveiled that radiotherapy (HR, 0.05; 95% CI, 0.00–0.87; p = 0.04), not surgery, was a protective prognostic factor for overall survival in MM‐IPFP patients. Comparison between the SIP progression group and non‐progression group revealed a significant difference of Ki‐67 index (non‐progression vs. SIP progression, 8.82% ± 7.03 vs. 16.5% ± 10.5, p < 0.05). AUC analysis determined that a cutoff value of 9.0% was the best predictor of SIP progression, with an area under the curve of 0.712.

Conclusions

This retrospective clinical analysis highlights the potential role of radiotherapy, rather than surgical resection, in improving the outcomes of intracranial plasmacytoma. Additionally, the Ki‐67 index is identified as a valuable marker for predicting disease progression. This would provide some evidence for the paradigm of diagnosis and treatment modalities for intracranial plasmacytomas from the large cohort.