bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Li, Ag Co‐Doping Enables Efficient Kesterite Solar Cell with a High Fill Factor of 74.30%
Authors: Zhong Xinyi , Wang Jinlin , Han Litao , Chi JinJin , Liu Tong , Kou Dongxing , Zhou Wenhui , Zhou Zhengji , Yuan Shengjie , Meng Yuena , Qi Yafang , Meng Qingbo , Wu Sixin
Published: December 2024

In addition to open‐circuit voltage (VOC) loss, fill factor (FF) loss is considered another major factor restricting the further optimization of Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe) device efficiency. In this work, a comprehensive investigation into the loss mechanisms of FF has been conducted, and implemented a Li&Ag co‐doping approach to enhance FF. The results indicate that the FF loss caused by insufficient carrier extraction is higher than that caused by non‐radiative recombination. The carrier extraction capability is significantly influenced by the band alignment of the CdS/CZTSSe interface and has little relationship with the carrier concentration of the absorber. Therefore, although Ag doping reduces the hole concentration and conductivity, it reduces the FF loss caused by carrier extraction due to the improvement of band alignment. Ag doping is also superior to Li in passivating harmful defects, which helps reduce FF losses caused by non‐radiative recombination. Correspondingly, Li performs better than Ag in increasing the hole carrier concentration and optimizing band alignment, greatly reducing FF losses caused by insufficient carrier transport. Finally, the Li and Ag co‐doping strategy enables a 14.91% efficient kesterite solar cell with the highest reported FF to date of 74.30% through collaborative optimization of carrier extraction and suppression of non‐radiative recombination.
Bias‐Free Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation Coupled with Electrochemical Oxygen Reduction Reaction via Fe‐Based Electrodes with Long‐Term Operation
Authors: Chen Haojie , Gao Zehua , Nguyen Nhat Truong , Li Zilong , Gao Rui‐Ting , Wu Limin , Wang Lei
Published: December 2024

Photoelectrochemistry (PEC) is a green and sustainable approach in the synthesis of H2O2, depending on the semiconductor to initiate two‐electron water oxidation into hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). However, the photoanodes generally have sluggish charge transfer and a limited number of active sites, which limit the yield and faradaic efficiency (FE) for the production of H2O2. Herein, Ti‐doped Fe2O3 photoanode with the modification of ZnO passivation layer (ZnO/Ti‐Fe2O3) for PEC H2O2 production is developed. The optimized photoanode has shown a high FE and selectivity for two‐electron water oxidation, achieving a yield approaching 0.56 µmol min−1 cm−2 at 1.23 VRHE and an average FE over 80% in the potential range from 1.0 to 1.6 VRHE. Impressively, an unassisted PEC system is designed to generate H2O2 at the ZnO/Ti‐Fe2O3 photoanode while performing an oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at the Fe(Co)‐NC cathode. The integrated system enables the average PEC H2O2 production rate of 0.275 µmol min−1 cm−2 without applying any additional bias. Moreover, an unassisted PEC cell obtains a long‐term stability of 100 h. This work demonstrates new possibilities in designing efficient and stable PEC assemblies using low‐cost earth‐abundant materials for light‐driven catalysis.
Tunable Optical High‐Order Differential Microscopy for Cell Structure Detection
Authors: Liu Shuoqing , Zhao Yongqi , Zheng Dandan , Chen Shizhen , Wen Shuangchun , Luo Hailu
Published: December 2024

Optical differential microscopy is an important tool for the detection and recognition of transparent biological objects. Among it, the first‐order optical differentiation is commonly utilized to aid in fast, label‐free, and contactless detection. However, the characterization of detailed contours for some smooth object areas may be limited, and a higher order operation needs to be executed. A tunable optical high‐order differential microscopy is proposed and implemented, in virtue of electric‐driven liquid crystal (LC). By electrically switching the working state of LC, the differential operation can be flexibly tuned in desired order, such as from zero‐order to first‐order and second‐order differentiations. Using this scheme, clear edge‐enhanced images of different‐contrast objects even transparent biological cells are experimentally acquired under multi‐wavelength cases. Specifically, based on the connection between high‐order differential results and edge features, further gained in‐depth information in the size of light spot and structure of plant cells. The beam waist radius of a laser is determined as 0.35 ± 0.002 mm, and the cell wall thickness is estimated about 3 to 5 microns. These results may open the avenue for biological imaging and microscopic measurement.
Magneto‐Capacitance of PEDOT:PSS Thin Films; Effects of a Two‐Phase System and Coulomb Interaction
Authors: Nikiforov Daniel , Tessler Nir , Ehrenfreund Eitan
Published: December 2024

The study of the net magneto‐capacitance, C(B), in thin films of the conducting polymer Poly(3 4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is presented. In the films there are charged electrically‐conducting PEDOT‐rich regions surrounded by PSS insulating charged material. The high‐conductivity grade PEDOT:PSS thin films are studied at low temperature, where the hopping conduction is dominant. It is experimentally observed that there is a finite net magneto‐capacitance, C(B), in the temperature range T = 1.7–3 K. Thus, the observed C(B) is a direct evidence for an intra‐site Coulomb interaction, U ≈ 2 meV, among the mobile charge carriers in the PEDOT‐rich regions. The lifting of spin degeneracy motivates PEDOT for use in spintronic applications.
Highly Stable Aqueous Zn‐Ion Batteries Achieved by Suppressing the Active Component Loss in Vanadium‐Based Cathode
Authors: Zhang Dongdong , Cao Jin , Yang Chengwu , Lolupiman Kittima , Limphirat Wanwisa , Wu Xiang , Zhang Xinyu , Qin Jiaqian , Huang Yunhui
Published: December 2024

Aqueous zinc–ion batteries (AZIBs) hold significant promise for large‐scale energy storage due to their inherent safety and environmental benefits. However, their practical application is often limited by rapid capacity loss from the dissolution of active cathode materials. Here, an effective strategy is proposed to suppress the active component loss by doping high‐valence Sn4+ in V3O7·H2O (Sn–V3O7·H2O) cathode material to achieve highly stable AZIBs. An impressive capacity retention of 89.3% over 6000 cycles at 5.0 A g−1 and a high specific capacity of 408 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 are attained. The Sn4+ doping thermodynamically lowers the formation energy of Sn–V3O7·H2O and increases the dissolution energy of VO2+ ions, thereby reinforcing the structural stability and suppressing the vanadium dissolution. Besides, Sn4+ doping enhances electrical conductivity and broadens Zn2+ diffusion channels, significantly accelerating Zn2+ intercalation and deintercalation kinetics. The experimental results are integrated with mechanism analysis and density functional theory calculation to elucidate the dissolution dynamics of V‐based cathodes, and employ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy to reveal the local electronic structures and chemical valences of vanadium during charge/discharge processes, thereby providing comprehensive insights into high‐performance cathode materials for AZIBs.
Solvent‐enabled intensification of liquid–liquid heterogeneous catalysis exemplified by direct hydration of cyclohexene
Authors: Zhang Zhixiang , Zhang Xiang , Wang Ke , Xie Kunchi , Wang Shu , Song Zhen , Cheng Hongye , Chen Lifang , Qi Zhiwen
Published: December 2024

A strategy of adding solvents to adjust liquid–liquid equilibrium for intensifying liquid–liquid heterogeneous catalytic reactions is presented. A systematic framework involving computational and experimental procedures is proposed for solvent screening and exemplified by the direct hydration of cyclohexene. The solvents that are stable, nonreactive, inert to catalyst, and easily recovered are first filtered out. Besides, two tailored key performance indicators are defined and computed to find the solvents that can promote mutual solubility of reactants and reaction conversion. Potential solvents are sent to test their effects on product yield via experiment. m‐Cresol is found to have the highest cyclohexanol yield of 47.5% and its explicit roles for enhancing the reaction is revealed by rigorous liquid–liquid equilibrium. The mechanism of why the resulted solvents can intensify the reaction is theoretically explored. By a comparative study, an additional heuristic is found to serve for expediting solvent screening.
Eco‐phylogenetic study of Trebouxia in southern Africa reveals interbiome connectivity and potential endemism in a green algal lichen photobiont
Authors: Medeiros Ian D. , Ibáñez Alicia , Arnold A. Elizabeth , Hedderson Terry A. , Miadlikowska Jolanta , Flakus Adam , Carbone Ignazio , LaGreca Scott , Magain Nicolas , Mazur Edyta , Castillo Reinaldo Vargas , Geml József , Kaup Maya , Maggs‐Kölling Gillian , Oita Shuzo , Sathiya Seelan Jaya Seelan , Terlova Elizaveta , Hom Erik F. Y. , Lewis Louise A. , Lutzoni François
Published: December 2024

Premise

Southern Africa is a biodiversity hotspot rich in endemic plants and lichen‐forming fungi. However, species‐level data about lichen photobionts in this region are minimal. We focused on Trebouxia (Chlorophyta), the most common lichen photobiont, to understand how southern African species fit into the global biodiversity of this genus and are distributed across biomes and mycobiont partners.

Methods

We sequenced Trebouxia nuclear ribosomal ITS and rbcL of 139 lichen thalli from diverse biomes in South Africa and Namibia. Global Trebouxia phylogenies incorporating these new data were inferred with a maximum likelihood approach. Trebouxia biodiversity, biogeography, and mycobiont–photobiont associations were assessed in phylogenetic and ecological network frameworks.

Results

An estimated 43 putative Trebouxia species were found across the region, including seven potentially endemic species. Only five clades represent formally described species: T. arboricola s.l. (A13), T. cf. cretacea (A01), T. incrustata (A06), T. lynniae (A39), and T. maresiae (A46). Potential endemic species were not significantly associated with the Greater Cape Floristic Region or desert. Trebouxia species occurred frequently across multiple biomes. Annual precipitation, but not precipitation seasonality, was significant in explaining variation in Trebouxia communities. Consistent with other studies of lichen photobionts, the Trebouxia–mycobiont network had an anti‐nested structure.

Conclusions

Depending on the metric used, ca. 20–30% of global Trebouxia biodiversity occurs in southern Africa, including many species yet to be described. With a classification scheme for Trebouxia now well established, tree‐based approaches are preferable over “barcode gap” methods for delimiting new species.
Solvent Dependent Selectivity in the Synthesis of 1,2‐Disubstituted and 2‐Substituted Benzimidazoles by Dehydrogenative Coupling Reactions with Ruthenium‐Polyoxoniobate Catalysts
Authors: Deepak Rajasekharan Jayakumari , N. E. Aswathi Ravindran , Karvembu Ramasamy
Published: December 2024

Ruthenium‐polyoxoniobate complexes were found to be efficient catalysts for the selective synthesis of 2‐substituted benzimidazoles and 1,2‐disubstituted benzimidazoles by solvent switching. The current strategy enables the synthesis of 2‐substituted benzimidazoles in water as a green solvent. Switching to aprotic solvents resulted in the formation of 1,2‐disubstituted benzimidazoles as the major product. Control experiments showed the involvement of both acceptorless dehydrogenative and oxidative coupling pathways. The method was extended to synthesize various 2‐substituted and 1,2‐disubstituted benzimidazole derivatives, and the desired products were obtained in moderate to good yields.
Single‐microglia transcriptomic transition network‐based prediction and real‐world patient data validation identifies ketorolac as a repurposable drug for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Xu Jielin , Song Wenqiang , Xu Zhenxing , Danziger Michael M. , Karavani Ehud , Zang Chengxi , Chen Xin , Li Yichen , Paz Isabela M Rivera , Gohel Dhruv , Su Chang , Zhou Yadi , Hou Yuan , Shimoni Yishai , Pieper Andrew A. , Hu Jianying , Wang Fei , Rosen‐Zvi Michal , Leverenz James B. , Cummings Jeffrey , Cheng Feixiong
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION

High microglial heterogeneities hinder the development of microglia‐targeted treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD).

METHODS

We integrated 0.7 million single‐nuclei RNA‐sequencing transcriptomes from human brains using a variational autoencoder. We predicted AD‐relevant microglial subtype‐specific transition networks for disease‐associated microglia (DAM), tau microglia, and neuroinflammation‐like microglia (NIM). We prioritized drugs by specifically targeting microglia‐specific transition networks and validated drugs using two independent real‐world patient databases.

RESULTS

We identified putative AD molecular drivers (e.g., SYK, CTSB, and INPP5D) in transition networks of DAM and NIM. Via specifically targeting NIM, we identified that usage of ketorolac was associated with reduced AD incidence in both MarketScan (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.89) and INSIGHT (HR = 0.83) Clinical Research Network databases, mechanistically supported by ketorolac‐treated transcriptomic data from AD patient induced pluripotent stem cell–derived microglia.

DISCUSSION

This study offers insights into the pathobiology of AD‐relevant microglial subtypes and identifies ketorolac as a potential anti‐inflammatory treatment for AD.

Highlights

An integrative analysis of ≈ 0.7 million single‐nuclei RNA‐sequencing transcriptomes from human brains identified Alzheimer's disease (AD)–relevant microglia subtypes.

Network‐based analysis identified putative molecular drivers (e.g., SYK, CTSB, INPP5D) of transition networks between disease‐associated microglia (DAM) and neuroinflammation‐like microglia (NIM).

Via network‐based prediction and population‐based validation, we identified that usage of ketorolac (a US Food and Drug Administration–approved anti‐inflammatory medicine) was associated with reduced AD incidence in two independent patient databases.

Mechanistic observation showed that ketorolac treatment downregulated the Type‐I interferon signaling in patient induced pluripotent stem cell–derived microglia, mechanistically supporting its protective effects in real‐world patient databases.
Synthesis of Titanium Silicon Composite Oxide Supported Cobalt Oxide Catalyst and Its Catalytic Performance for p‐Diethylbenzene Oxidation
Authors: Guo Ying , Han Mei , Song Zhimei , Li Jinhong , Wang Jinge , Zhao Nan , Zhao Qi , Chen Lidong
Published: December 2024

TiO2‐SiO2 composite oxides with different Ti/Si ratios were synthesized by [sol‐gel] method. The highest catalytic activity was obtained over T+S‐0.75 loaded with 5 % Co3O4 by in‐situ method using cobalt stearate as precursor. XPS, XRD, SEM, TEM, N2 adsorption‐desorption were used to characterize the state of titanium and cobalt species and the specific pore structure of catalyst. The characterization results combined with catalytic activity of p‐Diethylbenzene (PDEB) oxidation show that the short‐range mesoporous pore structure of T+S‐0.75‐C catalyst can facilitate the diffusion of large‐volume reactants, intermediates and products. Meanwhile, the synergetic effect of Ti4+, Co3+ and Co2+ can promote the decomposition of H2O2 and the generation of bromonium ions, which proceeds towards the target product during the reaction. Under the preferred reaction conditions, the oxidative conversion of PDEB in H2O2 system is 31.1 %, and total selectivity of the target product reaches 85 %.
Climate Change and Business Model Innovation: A Synthesis of Review and Qualitative Exploration of the Cultural Shift in Environmental Strategies
Authors: Broccardo Laura , Crocco Edoardo , Alofaysan Hind , Mehrotra Ankit
Published: December 2024

The study qualitatively explores how environmental concerns change business models by critically synthesizing the literature at the nexus of business model innovation and climate change. Using a combined approach that includes a systematic literature review and semistructured interviews with professionals, we determine the current state of the literature using key bibliometric analysis. We next critically evaluate emerging themes and make recommendations for further study based on the review's theoretical and empirical shortcomings. Our research shows that a wide range of stakeholders, including end users, advocacy groups, and policymakers, are impacted by the effects of climate change on business model innovation. The paper highlights the forces behind business model adaptation in the face of climate change and its effects, emphasizing the adoption of circular economy models, the switch to renewable energy sources, and cultural shifts toward more sustainable production and consumption. This review advances theory by summarizing the extant material and offering a well‐organized research plan for further investigations. Additionally, it offers valuable insights into how the competitive landscape is impacted by climate change, along with suggestions on how companies might thrive in this changing environment.
De‐Mystifying the Clone‐Censor‐Weight Method for Causal Research Using Observational Data: A Primer for Cancer Researchers
Authors: Gaber Charles E. , Ghazarian Armen A. , Strassle Paula D. , Ribeiro Tatiane B. , Salas Maribel , Maringe Camille , Garcia‐Albeniz Xabier , Wyss Richard , Du Wei , Lund Jennifer L.
Published: December 2024

Background

Regulators and oncology healthcare providers are increasingly interested in using observational studies of real‐world data (RWD) to complement clinical evidence from randomized controlled trials for informed decision‐making. To generate valid evidence, RWD studies must be carefully designed to avoid systematic biases. The clone‐censor‐weight (CCW) method has been proposed to address immortal time and other time‐related biases.

Methods

The objective of this manuscript is to de‐mystify the CCW method for cancer researchers by describing and presenting its core components in an accessible and digestible format, using visualizations and examples from cancer‐relevant studies. The CCW method has been applied in diverse settings, including investigations of the effects of surgery within a certain time after cancer diagnosis, the continuation of annual screening mammography, and chemotherapy duration on survival.

Results

The method handles complex data wherein the treatment group to which an individual belongs is unknown at the start of follow‐up. The three steps of the CCW method involve cloning or duplicating the patient population and assigning one clone to each treatment strategy, artificially censoring the clones when their observed data are inconsistent with the assigned strategy and weighting the cloned and censored population to address selection bias created by the artificial censoring.

Conclusions

The CCW method is a powerful tool for designing RWD studies in cancer that are free from time‐related biases and successfully, to the extent possible, emulate features of a randomized clinical trial.
NGO campaign responses to corporate environmental policies and practices
Authors: Chiu Winson , Kolstad Ivar
Published: December 2024

This paper analyses how (i) corporate environmental policies and (ii) actual corporate environmental practices (carbon dioxide emissions) affect the number of negative campaigns corporations face from non‐governmental organizations (NGOs). The corporate social responsibility (CSR) literature suggests that CSR activities can provide reputational insurance against negative NGO attention but also come with reputational risk; we use theory and insights from the NGO literature to posit that these relationships are complex and context‐dependent. Consistent with this, our empirical analysis shows that corporate environmental policies and practices have different impacts on NGO campaigns; while the number of campaigns rises with improvements in policy, it also rises with increases in emissions. In other words, NGOs target companies that are big on words and/or bad in practice, suggesting that investing in CSR policy alone may be counterproductive in deflecting NGO attention. Finally, NGO strategies depend on their power and home country context, making nuanced analysis of their responses to CSR activities crucial.
Memristor‐Based Reconfigurable True Time Delay Circuit
Authors: Yang Fan , Serb Alexander , Wang Shiwei , Papavassiliou Christos , Prodromakis Themistoklis
Published: December 2024

A memristor‐controlled CMOS reconfigurable true time delay circuit is introduced in this paper. The delay circuit includes three stages of ‐C all‐pass filter delay elements connected in cascade and memristor‐based tunable DC voltage sources. The memristor value variation changes the DC bias voltage inputs of the delay elements and thus controls the delay time indirectly: The memristor resistance changes in analogue from 10 to 17 k, changing the tunable DC voltage source output from 584‐ to 711‐mV DC voltage and the delay from 269 to 632 ps. The delay circuit can work in a frequency range from 50 MHz to 1.6 GHz with gain ripple smaller than 3 dB. The resolvable delay time step across the delay range is < 8.7 ps, troughing at as low as 0.4 ps. A delay circuit working in the MHz region is also designed to compare the performance with the GHz circuit, and a memristor‐programming circuit is built to change the resistance levels of memristors.
Overreliance on Sublexical Phonological Processing in Visual Word Recognition for Third‐Grade Mandarin‐Speaking Dyslexic Children
Authors: Zhang Wenjing , Liu Tao , Chen Wangmei , Liu Tongxin , Li Yaowen , Yue Xiuyue , Zhuang Tongjie , Li Ruojiao , Zhang Shaoxue , Xue Licheng , Zhao Jing
Published: December 2024

Developmental dyslexic (DD) children encounter challenges in sublexical orthographic, phonological, and semantic processing. However, there exists limited knowledge about the predominance of these three types of sublexical processing in visual word recognition among DD children. To investigate this issue, we screened 50 DD and 47 typically developing (TD) third‐grade native Chinese‐speaking children, and employed a picture‐novel character mapping task. We constructed four types of options: semantic radical‐legal position pseudo characters (e.g., ), phonetic radical‐legal position pseudo characters (e.g., ), semantic radical‐illegal position false characters (e.g., ), and phonetic radical‐illegal position false characters (e.g., ). Results in the multilevel logistic mixed‐effects regression analysis revealed that semantic radical‐legal position pseudo characters were more predictive for the trial‐level participants' response of TD children, whereas phonetic radical‐legal position pseudo characters were more predictive for the trial‐level participants' response of DD children. Consistently, semantic radical‐legal position pseudo characters were poorer predictors, while phonetic radical‐legal position pseudo characters were stronger predictors for the trial‐level participants' response of DD children than for that of TD children. These findings collectively suggest the predominance of sublexical orthographic and phonological processing in DD children's visual word recognition, and DD children may rely more on the sublexical phonological processing relative to TD children.
Advancing aqueous zinc‐ion batteries with carbon dots: A comprehensive review
Authors: Chen Mingying , Ma Junjie , Feng Yanhong , Yuan Quanping , Wu Yinghong , Liu Yifan , Hu Guangzhi , Liu Xijun
Published: December 2024

Recent years have witnessed a surge in research on aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) due to their low cost, stability, and exceptional electrochemical performance, among other advantages. However, practical manufacturing and deployment of AZIBs have been hindered by challenges such as low energy density, significant precipitation‐related side reactions, slow ion migration, and dendritic growth. Addressing these issues and enhancing the practical application of AZIBs necessitates the development of novel materials. Carbon dots (CDs), with their distinctive structure and superior electrochemical properties, represent an innovative class of carbon‐based materials with broad potential applications for optimizing AZIBs' performance. This study offers a comprehensive review of how CDs can address the aforementioned challenges of AZIBs. It begins with an overview of AZIBs composition and mechanism before delving into the classification, preparation techniques, and functionalization strategies of CDs. The review also thoroughly summarizes the sophisticated roles of CDs as modifiers in electrolytes and electrodes, both positive and negative, and briefly discusses their potential application in membranes. Additionally, it provides a summary of current issues and difficulties encountered in utilizing CDs in AZIBs. This review aims to provide insights and guidance for designing and manufacturing the next generation of high‐performance AZIBs.
Temperate Intertidal Ecosystems are Functionally Richer but More Vulnerable to Loss Than Tropical Ecosystems
Authors: Murley Matilda , Hovey Renae K. , Prince Jane
Published: December 2024

Gastropods are major contributors to a range of key ecosystem services on intertidal rock platforms, supporting trophic structure in both terrestrial and marine contexts and manipulating habitat complexity. However, the functional structure of these assemblages is rarely examined across broad spatial scales. Here, we describe patterns in gastropod functional diversity, redundancy and vulnerability to functional loss across a latitudinal gradient following the west coast of Australia (18° S–34° S). Specifically, we created a trait matrix based on six categorical traits for 186 gastropod species from 39 sites to examine how trait composition varied with latitude. We found there was no latitudinal gradient in either functional richness or distinctiveness despite clear gradients in species richness and taxonomic distinctiveness, which both increased towards the equator. We delineated two distinct functional bioregions, a temperate south (34° S–27° S) and a tropical north (24° S–18° S), and found that the temperate bioregion had greater functional richness and uniqueness but lower redundancy compared to the tropical bioregion. Our findings show that gastropod assemblages in the temperate bioregion are more vulnerable to functional loss as their functional entities are supported by fewer or even single species. Comparatively, the tropical bioregion reported higher redundancies, which could provide a buffer against future change. Understanding the functional structure of intertidal ecosystems is vital as gastropods face the uncertain impacts of coastal tropicalisation, range shifts and sea level rise.
The global burden of disease attributable to high body mass index in 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2021 with projections to 2050: An analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Authors: Wu Zenghong , Xia Fangnan , Wang Weijun , Zhang Kun , Fan Mengke , Lin Rong
Published: December 2024

Aims

Understanding the global burden of disease attributable to high body mass index (BMI) is essential for informing public health strategies and interventions to mitigate the impact of obesity‐related conditions.

Methods and results

The global deaths and disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) caused by high BMI were examined based on age, sex, year, and geographical location as well as socio‐demographic index. Globally in 2021, the deaths and DALYs attributable to high BMI have risen 2.54‐fold and 2.68‐fold for both sexes when compared to 1990. The number of global deaths linked to high BMI has risen for females from 828 147.16 (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 407 103.20–1 302 480.38) in 1990 to 2 013 089.03 (95% UI 979 000.37–3 076 044.71) in 2021, and for males from 631 386.07 (95% UI 315 452.97–988 213.75) in 1990 to 1 695 974.32 (95% UI 861 972.49–2 635 343.31) in 2021. The number of DALYs related to high BMI worldwide has risen for females from 26 097 463.34 (95% UI 11 042 501.33–42 206 794.07) in 1990 to 67 213 785.86 (95% UI 28 417 735.35–105 552 568.89) in 2021, and for males from 21 944 645.99 (95% UI 10 106 039.21–35 110 379.12) in 1990 to 61 306 297.23 (95% UI 27 566 755.49–94 931 874.52) in 2021. However, the age‐standardized rate of high‐BMI‐related deaths for females increased by 4.06% and 15.06% for males between 1990 and 2021, while the age‐standardized rate of high‐BMI‐related DALYs increased by 21.60% for females and 31.22% for males. Across the 21 Global Burden of Disease regions, in 2021, the highest age‐standardized rates of high‐BMI‐related deaths and DALYs were observed in Southern Sub‐Saharan Africa (125.12, 95% UI 71.21–183.13) and Oceania (3712.97, 95% UI 1666.49–5765.84), respectively.

Conclusion

Efforts to promote healthy weight management, lifestyle modifications, and early intervention for obesity‐related health complications are essential in reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with obesity and improving overall population health.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Mpg‐C3N4 Catalyzed C(sp2)−H Thiocyanation of Ketene Dithioacetals
Authors: Yin Fumeng , Hu Shan , Zhu Shuwei , Xing Shifeng , Zhu Hongjun
Published: December 2024

Using mesoporous graphite carbon nitride (mpg‐C3N4) as metal‐free heterogeneous catalyst, the thiocyanation of ketene dithioacetals was achieved under visible light irradiation with oxygen as green oxidant and without any other additives. The present protocol has excellent functional group tolerance and the desired tetrasubstituted alkenyl thiocyanides were obtained in moderate to good yields. Moreover, the recyclable mpg‐C3N4 catalyst could be used at least 6 times without significant loss of activities. A series of mechanistic validation experiments indicated that the reaction involves a radical process.
Exploring ketogenic diet resistance in glucose transporter type 1 deficiency syndrome: A comprehensive review and critical appraisal
Authors: Falsaperla Raffaele , Sortino Vincenzo , Kluger Gerhard Josef , Herberhold Thomas , Rüegger Andrea , Striano Pasquale , Ruggieri Martino , Klepper Joerg , Ramantani Georgia
Published: December 2024

Glucose transporter type 1 deficiency syndrome (GLUT1DS) commonly presents with early‐onset epilepsy that often resists conventional pharmacological treatment. Ketogenic diet therapy (KDT) is the preferred approach to address the underlying metabolic anomaly. However, a subset of GLUT1DS patients presents resistance to KDT, with the causes remaining elusive. This comprehensive literature review aims to explore the characteristics of KDT failure in GLUT1DS and identify risk factors within this population. Our goal is to improve counseling and prognostication for these patients. So, we conducted a comprehensive literature review on PubMed, focusing on studies documenting pediatric GLUT1DS patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy unresponsive to KDT. We identified five cases of KDT failure in female GLUT1DS patients, aged 10 days to 13 years at diagnosis. Predominant seizure types were absence seizures, with a few cases of clonic, tonic, or myoclonic seizures. EEG consistently revealed 2–3.5 Hz generalized spike‐and‐wave discharges. Genetic investigations revealed point mutations and deletions in two cases each. Despite an in‐depth search, no specific features were found to reliably distinguish KDT non‐responders from responders, underscoring the need for further research. In cases of KDT ineffectiveness for seizure control in GLUT1DS patients, exploring alternative therapeutic strategies becomes imperative to managing symptoms while maintaining quality of life. Large‐scale multicenter studies, facilitated through international collaborations like the European Network for Therapy in Rare Epilepsies (NETRE), hold promise in elucidating the complexities of this patient population and developing personalized therapeutic approaches.

Plain Language Summary

Glucose transporter type 1 deficiency syndrome often causes difficult‐to‐treat epilepsy. The ketogenic diet works for many patients, but some do not respond. This review investigated cases of diet failure but could not identify common features among poor responders. Further research is needed to understand these cases and explore alternative treatments.
Garnet as Indicator of Pegmatite Evolution and Mineralisation: The Case Study of the Koktokay Pegmatites, Altai, NW China
Authors: Sun Yang , Chen Bin , Li Wen‐Jing , Liu Shuai‐Jie
Published: December 2024

Pegmatite‐related deposits are among the most crucial sources of rare‐metal elements such as Li, Be, Nb, Ta, Rb, Cs and Sn. Despite nearly 2 centuries of extensive study, the mechanism governing the rare‐metal mineralisation of pegmatites remains contentious. Alongside the enrichment of rare‐metal elements in the source region, differentiation processes after emplacement may have also contributed to the concentration and mineralisation of rare‐metal elements. However, compared to fractional crystallisation, limited attention has been directed towards the role of liquid immiscibility in pegmatite mineralisation. In this study, the major and trace element compositions of garnets in the internally zoned (Be‐rich) and un‐zoned (barren) pegmatites from the Koktokay pegmatite field in Altai, NW China, were analysed to evaluate the role of liquid immiscibility in the generation of rare‐metal mineralised pegmatites. The studied garnets belong to the almandine‐spessartine solid solution and are magmatic in origin. The inter‐ and intra‐crystal chemical variations observed for the studied garnets were produced by a combined effect of magmatic crystallisation and liquid immiscibility. The decrease in the spessartine component of garnets from the margins inward and the depleted MREE–HREE distribution patterns of garnet domains indicate the onset of liquid immiscibility, which correlates with the Be mineralisation of the internally zoned pegmatite. Therefore, the chemical variations in garnets from the Koktokay pegmatites suggest a clear genetic relationship between liquid immiscibility and rare‐metal mineralisation, and they are proposed as potential indicators for prospecting rare‐metal ore deposits.
Butyrate Metabolism‐Related Gene Signature in Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Lung Adenocarcinoma: A Comprehensive Bioinformatics Study
Authors: Zhao Jing , Wang Xueyue , Wang Jing , You Yating , Wang Qi , Xu Yuan , Fan Ye
Published: December 2024

Background

Experimental results have verified the suppressive impact of butyrate on tumor formation. Nevertheless, there is a limited understanding of the hidden function of butyrate metabolism within the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). This research aimed at digging the association between genes related to butyrate metabolism (butyrate metabolism‐related genes [BMRGs) and immune infiltrates in LUAD patients.

Methods

Through analyzing The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset (TCGA), the identification of 38 differentially expressed BMRGs was made between LUAD and normal samples. Later, a prognostic signature made up of nine BMRGs was made to evaluate the risk score of LUAD subjects. Notably, high‐risk scores emerged as negative prognostic indicators for overall survival in LUAD subjects. Additionally, BMRGs displayed associations with immunocyte infiltration levels, immune pathway activities, and pivotal prognostic hub BMRGs.

Results

One key prognostic BMRG, PTGDS, exhibited a robust correlation with T cells, the chemokine‐related pathway, and the TCR signaling pathway. This study suggests that investigating the interplay between butyrate metabolism and T cells could present a promising novel approach to cancer treatment. OncoPredict analysis further unveiled distinct sensitivities of nine medicine in high‐ and low‐risk groups, facilitating the selection of optimal treatment strategies for individual LUAD patients.

Conclusions

The study establishes that the BMRG signature serves as a sensitive predictive biomarker, providing profound insights into the crucial effect of butyrate metabolism in the context of LUAD TIME.
The Diagnosis and Prognosis Value of Circulating Exosomal lncRNA MALAT1 and LNC_000226 in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction: An Observational Study
Authors: Gu Xiaodong , Hou Jingyuan , Weng Ruiqiang , Rao Jiawei , Liu Sudong
Published: December 2024

Background

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) stands as a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. This study aims to explore the potential roles of circulating exosomal lncRNA MALAT1 and LNC_000226 in AMI diagnosis and prognosis.

Methods

This retrospective observational study included 90 patients with AMI and 88 patients with normal coronary artery (NCA). Plasma exosomes were isolated via ultracentrifugation, and the levels of exosomal lncRNA MALAT1 and LNC_000226 were examined using qRT‐PCR. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) that occurred during 1‐year follow‐up post‐stent implantation were collected. The diagnostic value of exosomal MALAT1 and LNC_000226 was determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The association between exosomal LNC_000226 and MACEs was assessed by Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analysis.

Results

Both lncRNA MALAT1 and LNC_000226 levels in plasma exosomes were elevated in AMI patients compared to NCA controls. Moreover, LNC_000226 (AUC: 0.889, sensitivity: 82%, specificity: 72%) exhibited superior diagnostic performance compared to MALAT1 (AUC: 0.707, sensitivity: 71%, specificity: 57%). During 1‐year follow‐up period, the incidence of MACEs was significantly higher among patients with high exosomal LNC_000226 levels compared to those with low exosomal LNC_000226 levels [64% (29/45) vs. 40% (18/45), p < 0.05]. Multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed a positive association between exosomal LNC_000226 level and the risk of MACEs in AMI patients (HR: 1.959, 95% CI: 1.040–3.689).

Conclusion

Circulating exosomal lncRNA MALAT1 and LNC_000226 are promising biomarkers for diagnosing AMI, with LNC_000226 potentially indicating a prognosis.
A Reversed Early Warning Methodology for Optimal Bank Profit Retention Recommendations
Authors: Jakubik Petr , Moinescu Bogdan Gabriel
Published: December 2024

This study introduces a calibration method for the newest policy instrument in prudential supervision by endogenising profit retention targets via a reversed early warning system, depending on the supervisors' risk tolerance, the exposure to the economy, and the level of financial pressure. We model the likelihood of banking crises in EU jurisdictions within a medium‐term horizon using monthly frequency data to account for the increasing speed of financial shock developments amid the digital revolution, as the March 2023 distress episode indicated. Toward this target, we employ economic, monetary, and financial stress variables, banking size indicators, and leverage ratio. The early warning system is then run to calculate the capital buffer against a presumptive probability standard of the supervisory authority, given the financial stress level and the banking intermediation size. This approach would inform supervisors whether a profit retention recommendation is needed to enhance the shock absorption capacity of credit institutions to preserve banking stability given the existing economic, monetary, and financial conditions. Moreover, it can guide central bankers on their policy mix calibration, avoid frictions in the monetary transmission mechanism, and simultaneously accommodate price stability and financial stability goals. Furthermore, despite its macroprudential input, the regulators could replicate the methodology with microprudential data to derive an alternative but direct measure of capital buffers, complementing the current prudential regulatory approach.
A case study of spatial variability in irrigation depth and surface characteristics of a stadium football pitch
Authors: Meza Karem , Straw Chase , Ascencios David , Yadav Pappu Kumar
Published: December 2024

Irrigation and surface characteristics are important for managing professional turfgrass pitches. This study evaluated irrigation depth, volumetric water content (VWC), penetration resistance (PR), and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) on a Mirage bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) stadium football pitch in Lima, Peru, in 2019. The pitch, constructed with 10 cm of loamy sand soil, was irrigated by six pop‐up impact gun sprinklers. Data on irrigation depth, VWC, PR, and NDVI were collected from June to September using a 10.0 m × 5.0 m grid across 154 sample locations to create spatial maps. Correlation, regression, and spatial analyses evaluated relationships and variability among variables. The VWC lower quarter distribution uniformity was higher (72.0%) than that of irrigation depth (49.0%). A negative correlation was found between PR and VWC (r = −0.30, p < 0.001), with PR being the most significant predictor of VWC (p < 0.001). VWC and PR site‐specific management units indicated that the pitch center was compacted, resulting in lower VWC. These findings highlight that spatial data can enhance understanding of variability and relationships among surface characteristics, supporting data‐driven, site‐specific management for stadium pitches.
Addressing code response challenges: Development of a pharmacist‐focused training program at an Academic Medical Center
Authors: Jacobs Lindsay , Tawwater Jennifer , Skariah Lisa , Parag Bhavyata , Ryman Klayton , McKee Chephra , Cox Kathryn , Chaney Whitney , Tenii Josephine , Johns Meagan
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Pharmacists are essential to the multidisciplinary team during code response. Commercially available basic and advanced‐life support training programs are not tailored for the depth of medication‐specific content essential for pharmacists to competently respond to codes. Opportunities exist to provide additional training to improve pharmacists' code response.

Objective

To develop pharmacist‐specific didactic education and hands‐on assessments for adult code response.

Methods

At our institution, acute care clinical staff pharmacists attend all adult codes. A mandatory pharmacist training program was designed to meet minimum institutional expectations for code response and address knowledge gaps. The program included three components: (1) online training module, (2) knowledge‐based assessment, and (3) hands‐on assessment. Pharmacists were surveyed pre‐ and post‐completion of the training program. The surveys consisted of 15 Likert scale questions and open‐ended questions. Chi‐square tests were used to compare a “positive” response to pre‐ and post‐survey questions. A “positive” response was defined as “Strongly Agree” or “Agree” on the Likert questions.

Results

Seventy‐three pharmacists completed the training program with 71 passing the hands‐on skills training on the first attempt. The pre‐ and post‐intervention survey was completed by 43/74 (58.1%) and 33/82 (40.2%) of pharmacists, respectively. A statistically significant increase in the number of “positive” survey responses was noted in 7 of the 15 Likert scale questions post‐intervention, with nominal improvements in the remaining 8. There were notable improvements in pharmacist perceived familiarity and comfort with medication locations (9% vs. 64%) and preparation (44% vs. 76%), and greater confidence in using available resources.

Conclusion

The pharmacist‐specific code response training resulted in notable improvements in disclosed familiarity and comfort with code responsibilities. This training was transitioned into an annual competency module that may be used as a framework for other institutions implementing a similar process to maintain a standard level of competence in code response for pharmacists.
Ninety‐Day Feeding Test of Stacked DBN9936 × DBN9501 Maize on Sprague Dawley Rats
Authors: Li Yan , Han Chao , Shi Lili , Chen Chen , Zhao Jinpeng , Liu Tingting , Zhuo Qin
Published: December 2024

The transgenic maize DBN9936 × DBN9501, which confers resistance to insects and tolerance to herbicides, was developed via conventional cross breeding of transgenic maize DBN9936 and DBN9501. In our present study, a 90‐day feeding toxicity study was conducted on Sprague Dawley rats to evaluate the safety of the maize. A total of 140 rats were randomly assigned to seven groups (n = 10/sex/group): one control group, three genetically modified (GM) groups with 17.5%, 35%, and 70% (wt/wt) GM maize, respectively, and three non‐GM groups with corresponding incorporation rate of parental maize DBN318. The rats of control group were fed with AIN93G diet. The parameters including body weights, food consumption, hematology, serum biochemistry, organ weights, and histopathology were examined during the course of the study. Compared with the non‐GM group or AIN93G control group, minor statistical differences were observed for some parameters in some groups, yet none of them was considered a GM‐related adverse effect. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that no adverse effect was observed on rats following 90 days feeding with diet containing up to 70% GM maize. The results indicated that stacked maize DBN9936 × DBN9501 was as safe as its parental DBN318 maize.
Enhanced proteomic profiling of human plasma‐derived extracellular vesicles through charge‐based fractionation to advance biomarker discovery potential
Authors: Su Xianyi , Júnior Getúlio Pereira de Oliveira , Marie Anne‐Lise , Gregus Michal , Figueroa‐Navedo Amanda , Ghiran Ionita C. , Ivanov Alexander R.
Published: December 2024

The study introduces a charge‐based fractionation method for fractionating plasma‐derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) into sub‐populations aimed at the improved purification from free plasma proteins to enhance the diagnostic potential of EV sub‐populations for specific pathophysiological states. Here, we present a novel approach for EV fractionation that leverages EVs’ inherent surface charges, differentiating them from other plasma components and, thus, reducing the sample complexity and increasing the purity of EVs. The developed method was optimized and thoroughly evaluated using proteomic analysis, transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking, and western blotting of isolated EVs from healthy donors. Subsequently, we pilot‐tested the developed technique for its applicability to real‐world specimens using a small set of clinical prostate cancer samples and matched controls. The presented technique demonstrates the effective isolation and fractionation of EV sub‐populations based on their surface charge, which may potentially help enhance EV‐based diagnostics, biomarker discovery, and basic biology research. The method is designed to be straightforward, scalable, easy‐to‐use, and it does not require specialized skills or equipment.
Aspirational Revolution or Aspiration Failure? Gendered Effect of Household Wealth on Educational Aspirations in China
Authors: Hwang In Hyee , Yoon Semee
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the gendered impact of household wealth on children's educational aspirations in China. Using two waves of longitudinal survey data of Chinese households from 2012 and 2016, we find that household assets have a differential impact on girls' and boys' educational aspirations. Household assets have a significant and positive impact on girls' aspirations for higher education, especially for graduate school, whereas boys' aspirations remain relatively stable across asset levels. We also demonstrate that this positive impact of household assets on girls' educational aspirations is limited to girls with same‐sex siblings. Girls with sisters are more likely to report an increase in aspirations for higher education with increasing levels of household assets. Conversely, for girls with brothers, household assets have a negative impact on their aspirations for higher education. Our findings suggest that traditional gender norms and family investment strategies play a critical role in shaping educational aspirations, particularly in families with both sons and daughters.