bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Bone Material Properties on the Initial Stability of a Cementless Hip Stem: A Finite Element Study
Authors: Wong A S , New A M R , Isaacs G , Taylor M
Published: July 2005

In previous finite element studies of cementless hip stems reported in the literature, the effect of bone quality on the initial micromotion and interface bone strain has been rarely reported. In this study, the effect of varying cortical and cancellous bone modulus on initial stem micromotion and interface bone strain was examined and the potential consequence of these changes on bone ingrowth and implant migration was reported. A finite element (FE) model of a total hip replacement (THR) was created and the Young's moduli of cortical and cancellous bone were systematically varied to study the relative effect of the quality of both types of bone on the initial stability of a cementless THR. It was found that the initial micromotion and interface bone strain in a THR was significantly affected by the overall stiffness of the femur. In other words, both the reduction of the modulus of cortical and cancellous bone caused an increase in the initial micromotion and interface bone strain. This suggests that for FE studies to be truly predictive, a range of bone quality must be examined to study the performance envelope of a particular stem and to allow comparison with clinical results.
Bi(OTf)3-catalyzed Regioselective Ring Opening of Epoxides with Phenols: Facile Synthesis of 1,3-Diaryloxy-2-propanols
Authors: Kamal Ahmed , Ahmed Syed Kaleem , Sandbhor Mahendra , Ahmed Khan Mohammed Naseer , Arifuddin Mohammed
Published: July 2005

Substituted aryl oxiranes undergo the facile ring opening with phenols in the presence of catalytic amount of bismuth(III) triflate to afford 1,3-diaryloxy-2-propanols in excellent yields under mild conditions. Bismuth(III) triflate is relatively non-toxic, easy to handle and inexpensive, which makes this procedure particularly attractive for large scale synthesis.
Formation of Ordered Mesostructured Silica by Vapor Infiltration of Tetraethoxysilane into Hexagonally Arranged Surfactant–Catalyst Nanocomposites
Authors: Tanaka Shunsuke , Maruo Takanori , Nishiyama Norikazu , Egashira Yasuyuki , Ueyama Korekazu
Published: July 2005

Hexagonally arranged surfactant–catalyst composites were treated only with tetraethoxysilane vapor, resulting in the formation of the silica mesostructures without phase transition.
The Use of TiCl4 Treatment to Enhance the Photocurrent in a TaON Photoelectrode under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Abe Ryu , Takata Tsuyoshi , Sugihara Hideki , Domen Kazunari
Published: July 2005

A porous TaON photoelectrode was prepared on a conducting glass support, and the photocurrent based on water oxidation was investigated under visible light irradiation. The photocurrent was significantly increased by TiCl4 treatment on the TaON electrode. The TiO2 necking that formed between the TaON particles possibly improved the electron transport within the porous electrode.
Things Change: Dynamic Resource Constraints and System-Dependent Selection in the Evolution of Organizational Populations
Authors: Lomi Alessandro , Larsen Erik R. , Freeman John H.
Published: July 2005

An extensive empirical literature has demonstrated the existence of density-dependent selection in organizational vital rates. This research has also shown that historical trajectories followed by organizational populations only partly conform to the predictions of the original model. Inconsistencies with the model’s predictions prompt a series of questions: Why do organizational populations suddenly collapse after reaching a peak? Why do organizational populations oscillate after collapsing? What causes extinction of organizational forms? To address these questions, scholars have proposed a variety of modifications to the original model of density dependence. All have merit, but none is completely satisfying. The main objective of this study is to narrow the gap between theories, models, and observed historical trajectories by identifying a unitary analytical framework that can account for the variety of empirical trajectories typically followed by mature organizational populations. The model that we present is based on the hypothesis of system-dependent selection, according to which patterns of resource availability are produced by processes that are partly endogenous to organizational populations. The main analytical insight of the study is that under conditions of dynamic resource constraints introduced by system-dependent selection, the presence of population-level inertia leads to a rich variety of historical trajectories during population maturity. We show that this result holds in the absence of any particular assumption about the microstructure of organizational populations. Possible trajectories include sustained oscillations, resurgence, and extinction.
Probabilistic Inversion of Expert Judgments in the Quantification of Model Uncertainty
Authors: Kraan Bernd , Bedford Tim
Published: July 2005

Expert judgment is frequently used to assess parameter values of quantitative management science models, particularly in decision-making contexts. Experts can, however, only be expected to assess observable quantities, not abstract model parameters. This means that we need a method for translating expert assessed uncertainties on model outputs into uncertainties on model parameter values. This process is called probabilistic inversion. The probability distribution on model parameters obtained in this way can be used in a variety of ways, but in particular in an uncertainty analysis or as a Bayes prior. This paper discusses computational algorithms that have proven successful in various projects and gives examples from environmental modelling and banking. Those algorithms are given a theoretical basis by adopting a minimum information approach to modelling partial information. The role of minimum information is two-fold: It enables us to resolve the problem of nonuniqueness of distributions given the information we have, and it provides numerical stability to the algorithm by guaranteeing convergence properties.
Patient Choice in Kidney Allocation: A Sequential Stochastic Assignment Model
Authors: Su Xuanming , Zenios Stefanos A.
Published: July 2005

This paper investigates the effect of patient choice on kidney allocation using the following sequential stochastic assignment model. There are n transplant patients to be allocated n kidneys that will arrive sequentially. Each patient and each kidney has its own type, kidney types are random and revealed upon arrival, and the reward from allocating a kidney to a particular patient depends on both their types. Patients may choose to accept or decline any kidney offer.

The objective is to determine a kidney allocation policy that maximizes total expected reward subject to the constraint that patients will only accept offers that maximize their own expected reward. A partition policy, in which the space of kidney types is divided into different domains (each corresponding to a different patient type) and in which each kidney is allocated to the patient type corresponding to its domain, is shown to be asymptotically optimal when patients must accept all kidney offers. To reflect patient choice, an incentive compatibility condition is derived to ensure that the offers made by the allocation policy are never declined. This condition is then used to derive a “second-best” partition policy. A numerical example, based on data from the US transplantation system, demonstrates that patient choice may introduce substantial inefficiencies, but the second-best policy recovers all the losses by minimizing the variability in the type of offers expected by each patient. Thus, policy makers should explicitly recognize the effect of patient choice when designing a kidney allocation system.
Revenue Management for Parallel Flights with Customer-Choice Behavior
Authors: Zhang Dan , Cooper William L.
Published: July 2005

We consider the simultaneous seat-inventory control of a set of parallel flights between a common origin and destination with dynamic customer choice among the flights. We formulate the problem as an extension of the classic multiperiod, single-flight “block demand” revenue management model. The resulting Markov decision process is quite complex, owing to its multidimensional state space and the fact that the airline’s inventory controls do affect the distribution of demand. Using stochastic comparisons, consumer-choice models, and inventory-pooling ideas, we derive easily computable upper and lower bounds for the value function of our model. We propose simulation-based techniques for solving the stochastic optimization problem and also describe heuristics based upon an extension of a well-known linear programming formulation. We provide numerical examples.
Self-Characterizations of Adult Female Informal Caregivers: Gender Identity and the Bearing of Burden
Authors: Kramer Maeona K.
Published: July 2005

Gender identity is a powerful aspect of self that shapes values, attitudes, and conduct. Family caregivers, particularly women, tend to forgo institutionalization of care recipients even when care demands are overwhelming. The reluctance of women to relinquish care raises questions about the relationship between gender identity and the bearing of burden. To illuminate the relationship between gender and burden, 36 adult women caring for highly dependent adults were asked to describe the nature of “self”; that is, how they characterized themselves as a person. Results were tabulated and critically examined in relation to stereotypical gender traits, as well as social and political processes that create gender dichotomies. Overall, self-characterizations indicated caregivers had internalized stereotypical female gender traits that support and facilitate the enduring of burden.
A Comparison of Wandering Behavior in Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities
Authors: Beattie Elizabeth R. A. , Song JunAh , LaGore Shane
Published: July 2005

Wandering, a challenging behavior associated with dementia, affects many residents of long-term care facilities and can result in elopement, injury, and death. Most studies of wandering have taken place in nursing homes (NH). Expansion of the long-term care sector over the last 2 decades has resulted in a surge in options such as assisted living facilities (ALF). This study compared wandering behavior of residents (N= 108) in 21 long-term care facilities (15 NH, 6 ALF). Staff used the Revised Algase Wandering Scale-Nursing Home Version (RAWS-NH) to quantify wandering. While there were some differences in demographic variables (i.e., race, motor ability) between NH and ALF participants, no significant differences were found in either RAWS-NH overall or any of the 6 subscale scores. This suggests that the expression of wandering is similar in long-term care residents across all dimensions of the RAWS-NH regardless of facility type. Findings are of concern for those involved in the safe management and protection of residents at risk for wandering, particularly in long-term care facilities with underregulated staffing and training requirements.
Concept Analysis: Examining the State of the Science
Authors: Hupcey Judith E. , Penrod Janice
Published: July 2005

As methods for analyzing concepts have proliferated in nursing, a critical methodological issue has arisen. Analytic techniques for examining conceptual meaning have incorporated varied strategies for advancing the concept under the rubric of concept analysis, concept development, and theory building. The authors argue that this evolution has created methodological confusion. Following a discussion of a conceptualization of concepts and concept-theory-truth linkages, methods of concept analysis are critiqued in terms of the purpose and the nature of the findings produced by analyses using both traditional and emergent methods. The authors argue that concept analysis is a process of strategic examination of the scientific literature that results in an integrated perspective of the state of the science, or what is known about the concept. In contrast, concept advancement refers to techniques that emphasize the synthesis of new or deeper knowledge that is relevant to the discipline. The authors conclude that disentangling concept analysis from techniques for concept advancement is critical to enhancing the utility of concept-based research in nursing.
Responding Effectively to Disruptive Patient Behaviors
Authors: Fabi Rachel , Johnson L. Syd M
Published: February 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the use of behavior contracts with patients in response to increasing workplace violence in health care, and highlights the importance of building the evidence base for approaches to dealing with violent behaviors that are effective and just.
Patents on Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies for Prescription Drugs and Generic Competition
Authors: Sarpatwari Ameet , Kohli Sajeev , Tu S. Sean , Kesselheim Aaron S.
Published: February 2024

This cross-sectional study identifies the prevalence of patents on risk evaluation and mitigation strategies and their association with delaying generic competition.
Public Health in the Crosshairs of Culture Wars
Authors: Gostin Lawrence O. , Wetter Sarah
Published: February 2024

This JAMA Forum discusses the topics of reproductive rights, transgender care, firearm safety, and COVID-19 vaccines in the context of public health and the political climate in the US.
Accreditation Standards—An Untapped Lever for Cancer Equity
Authors: Erfani Parsa , Uppal Nishant , Lam Miranda B.
Published: February 2024

This Viewpoint describes how the Commission on Cancer and the National Cancer Institute can incorporate health equity benchmarks into existing standards to improve care and outcomes for all patients with cancer.
Patient Experience of Head and Neck Surgery With Free Flap Reconstruction
Authors: Dattilo Lillian W. , Russell Trinity I. , Warinner Chloe B. , Starmer Heather , Annino Donald J. , Goguen Laura A. , Sethi Rosh K. V. , Uppaluri Ravindra , Windon Melina J. , Bergmark Regan W. , Rettig Eleni M.
Published: February 2024

Importance

Major head and neck surgery with microvascular free tissue transfer reconstruction is complex, with considerable risk of morbidity. Little is known about patients’ experiences, including decision-making prior to, and regret following, free flap surgery.

Objective

To characterize patient experiences and decision regret of patients undergoing head and neck reconstructive free flap surgery.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This mixed-methods cohort study comprising semistructured interviews was conducted June to August 2021 at a single tertiary academic cancer center. Participants underwent head and neck reconstructive surgery with microvascular free tissue transfer (flap) more than 3 months before recruitment (range, 3 months to 4 years). Interview transcripts were qualitatively analyzed for themes. Participants also completed a Decision Regret Scale questionnaire.

Exposure

Microvascular free flap surgery for head and neck reconstruction.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Thematic analysis of interviews, decision regret score.

Results

Seventeen participants were interviewed. Median (IQR) age was 61 (52-70) years. Overall, 7 participants were women (49%), and 10 of 17 were men (59%). The most common free flap was fibula (8/17, 47%). Three major themes with 9 subthemes were identified: theme 1 was the tremendous effect of preoperative counseling on surgical decision-making and satisfaction, with subthemes including (1) importance of clinical care team counseling on decision to have surgery; (2) emotional context colors preoperative understanding and retention of information; (3) expectation-setting affects satisfaction with preoperative counseling; and (4) desire for diversified delivery of preoperative information. Theme 2 was coexisting and often conflicting priorities, including (1) desire to survive above all else, and (2) desire for quality of life. Theme 3 was perception of surgery as momentous and distressing, including (1) surgery as a traumatic event; (2) centrality of mental health, emotional resolve, and gratitude to enduring surgery and recovery; and (3) sense of accomplishment in recovery. On the Decision Regret Scale, most participants had no regret (n = 8, 47%) or mild regret (n = 5, 29%); 4 had moderate-to-severe regret (24%).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this mixed-methods cohort study, patient experiences surrounding major head and neck reconstructive free flap surgery were described. Opportunities to improve support for this complex and vulnerable population, and to mitigate decision regret, were identified.
MAP4K4 and WT1 mediate SOX6‐induced cellular senescence by synergistically activating the ATF2–TGFβ2–Smad2/3 signaling pathway in cervical cancer
Authors: Zheng Han , Liu Mingchen , Shi Shu , Huang Hongxin , Yang Xingwen , Luo Ziheng , Song Yarong , Xu Qiang , Li Tingting , Xue Lixiang , Lu Fengmin , Wang Jie
Published: February 2024

SRY‐box transcription factor 6 (SOX6) is a member of the SOX gene family and inhibits the proliferation of cervical cancer cells by inducing cell cycle arrest. However, the final cell fate and significance of these cell‐cycle‐arrested cervical cancer cells induced by SOX6 remains unclear. Here, we report that SOX6 inhibits the proliferation of cervical cancer cells by inducing cellular senescence, which is mainly mediated by promoting transforming growth factor beta 2 (TGFB2) gene expression and subsequently activating the TGFβ2–Smad2/3–p53–p21WAF1/CIP1–Rb pathway. SOX6 promotes TGFB2 gene expression through the MAP4K4–MAPK (JNK/ERK/p38)–ATF2 and WT1–ATF2 pathways, which is dependent on its high‐mobility group (HMG) domain. In addition, the SOX6‐induced senescent cervical cancer cells are resistant to cisplatin treatment. ABT‐263 (navitoclax) and ABT‐199 (venetoclax), two classic senolytics, can specifically eliminate the SOX6‐induced senescent cervical cancer cells, and thus significantly improve the chemosensitivity of cisplatin‐resistant cervical cancer cells. This study uncovers that the MAP4K4/WT1–ATF2–TGFβ2 axis mediates SOX6‐induced cellular senescence, which is a promising therapeutic target in improving the chemosensitivity of cervical cancer.
Spectral performance evaluation of a second‐generation spectral detector CT
Authors: Liu Leening P. , Shapira Nadav , Halliburton Sandra S. , Meyer Sebastian , Perkins Amy , Litt Harold I. , Kauczor Hans Ulrich , Leiner Tim , Stiller Wolfram , Noël Peter B.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to characterize a second‐generation wide‐detector dual‐layer spectral computed tomography (CT) system for material quantification accuracy, acquisition parameter and patient size dependencies, and tissue characterization capabilities.

Methods

A phantom with multiple tissue‐mimicking and material‐specific inserts was scanned with a dual‐layer spectral detector CT using different tube voltages, collimation widths, radiation dose levels, and size configurations. Accuracy of iodine density maps and virtual monoenergetic images (MonoE) were investigated. Additionally, differences between conventional and MonoE 70 keV images were calculated to evaluate acquisition parameter and patient size dependencies. To demonstrate material quantification and differentiation, liver‐mimicking inserts with adipose and iron were analyzed with a two‐base decomposition utilizing MonoE 50 and 150 keV, and root mean square error (RMSE) for adipose and iron content was reported.

Results

Measured inserts exhibited quantitative accuracy across a wide range of MonoE levels. MonoE 70 keV images demonstrated reduced dependence compared to conventional images for phantom size (1 vs. 27 HU) and acquisition parameters, particularly tube voltage (4 vs. 37 HU). Iodine density quantification was successful with errors ranging from ‐0.58 to 0.44 mg/mL. Similarly, inserts with different amounts of adipose and iron were differentiated, and the small deviation in values within inserts corresponded to a RMSE of 3.49 ± 1.76% and 1.67 ± 0.84 mg/mL for adipose and iron content, respectively.

Conclusion

The second‐generation dual‐layer CT enables acquisition of quantitatively accurate spectral data without compromises from differences in patient size and acquisition parameters.
Technical and clinical considerations of a physical liver phantom for CT radiomics analysis
Authors: Varghese Bino Abel , Cen Steven Yong , Jensen Kristin , Levy Joshua , Andersen Hilde Kjernlie , Schulz Anselm , Lei Xiaomeng , Duddalwar Vinay Anant , Goodenough David John
Published: February 2024

Objective

This study identifies key characteristics to help build a physical liver computed tomography (CT) phantom for radiomics harmonization; particularly, the higher‐order texture metrics.

Materials and methods

CT scans of a radiomics phantom comprising of 18 novel 3D printed inserts with varying size, shape, and material combinations were acquired on a 64‐slice CT scanner (Brilliance 64, Philips Healthcare). The images were acquired at 120 kV, 250 mAs, CTDIvol of 16.36 mGy, 2 mm slice thickness, and iterative noise‐reduction reconstruction (iDose, Philips Healthcare, Andover, MA). Radiomics analysis was performed using the Cancer Imaging Phenomics Toolkit (CaPTk), following automated segmentation of 3D regions of interest (ROI) of the 18 inserts. The findings were compared to three additional ROI obtained of an anthropomorphic liver phantom, a patient liver CT scan, and a water phantom, at comparable imaging settings. Percentage difference in radiomic metrics values between phantom and tissue was used to assess the biological equivalency and <10% was used to claim equivalent.

Results

The HU for all 18 ROI from the phantom ranged from −30 to 120 which is within clinically observed HU range of the liver, showing that our phantom material (T3‐6B) is representative of biological CT tissue densities (liver) with >50% radiomic features having <10% difference from liver tissue. Based on the assessment of the Neighborhood Gray Tone Difference Matrix (NGTDM) metrics it is evident that the water phantom ROI show extreme values compared to the ROIs from the phantom. This result may further reinforce the difference between a structureless quantity such as water HU values and tissue HU values found in liver.

Conclusion

The 3‐D printed patterns of the constructed radiomics phantom cover a wide span of liver tissue textures seen in CT images. Using our results, texture metrics can be selectively harmonized to establish clinically relevant and reliable radiomics panels.
Pituitary neuroendocrine tumor: A neuropsychological comparison with intra‐axial tumor
Authors: Tang Hanlu , Fang Yehong , Bie Zhixu , Jia Heyuan , Wang Bo , Yang Zhijun , Yang Ruolin , Gao Zhixian , Wang Xingchao , Liu Pinan
Published: February 2024

Objective

Despite pituitary neuroendocrine tumor (PitNET) being extra‐axial tumors without direct damage to brain tissue, patients with PitNET exhibit neuropsychological impairments. However, it remains unclear whether there are neuropsychological differences between PitNET and intra‐axial tumors that directly destroy the brain parenchyma. This prospective study aims to clarify this distinction to inform decision‐making for intracranial tumors of diverse origins.

Methods

A total of 146 patients with PitNET, 74 patients with glioma representing intra‐axial tumors, and 52 age‐, sex‐, and education‐matched healthy controls were recruited. All patients received standard treatment and postoperative rehabilitation. Clinical data were meticulously collected, and neuropsychological tests were administered to all participants both before and 3 months after surgery.

Results

Both PitNET and glioma patients experience the dual burden of cognitive and affective deficits. However, the feature of these deficits differs substantially. In PitNET patients, the deficits are relatively mild and focal, whereas in glioma patients, they are severe and extensive. Specifically, PitNET patients exhibit deficits in memory, anxiety, and negative affect. In contrast, glioma patients display deficits in executive function, attention, anxiety, positive/negative affect, and empathy. Notably, except for persistent memory deficits, the majority of neuropsychological scores declines in PitNET patients are restorable and can reach improvement within a short period after standard surgical therapy and perioperative management. Conversely, glioma patients not only fail to show improvements but also demonstrate worsening in terms of general cognition and memory postoperatively.

Interpretation

As an extra‐axial tumor, PitNET may exhibit distinctive cognitive and affective functioning compared to intra‐axial tumors, highlighting the need for specific treatment approaches for PitNET patients.
Self‐Generating Gold Nanocatalysts in Autologous Tumor Cells for Targeted Catalytic Immunotherapy
Authors: Zeng Fei , Pan Yongchun , Lu Qianglan , Luan Xiaowei , Qin Shurong , Liu Yuta , Liu Zhiyong , Yang Jingjing , He Bangshun , Song Yujun
Published: February 2024

Employing tumor whole cells for tumor immunotherapy is a promising tumor therapy proposed in the early stage, but its therapeutic efficacy is weakened by the methods of eliminating pathogenicity and the mass ratio of the effective antigen carried by itself. Here, by adding gold ion to live cancer cells in the microfluidic droplets, this work obtains dead tumor whole cells with NIR‐controlled catalytic ability whose pathogenicity is removed while plenary tumor antigens, major structure, and homing ability are reserved. The engineered tumor cell (Cell‐Au) with the addition of prodrug provides 1O2 in an O2‐free Russell mechanism, which serves better in a hypoxic tumor microenvironment. This tumor whole‐cell catalytic vaccine (TWCV) promotes the activation of dendritic cells and the transformation of macrophages into tumor suppressor phenotype. In 4T1 tumor‐bearing mice, the Cell‐Au‐based vaccine supports the polarization of cytotoxicity T cells, resulting in tumor eradication and long‐term animal survival. Compared with antigen vaccines or adoptive cell therapy which takes months to obtain, this TWCV can be prepared in just a few days with satisfactory immune activation and tumor therapeutic efficacy, which provides an alternative way for the preparation of personalized tumor vaccines across tumor types and gives immunotherapy a new path.
Freestanding Nanofiber‐Assembled Aptasensor for Precisely and Ultrafast Electrochemical Detection of Alzheimer's Disease Biomarkers
Authors: Liu Hui , Yuan Xueli , Liu Tao , Zhang Wei , Dong Heng , Chu Zhenyu
Published: February 2024

Amyloid beta‐protein (AβAβ) is a main hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD), and a low amount of Aβ protein accumulation appears to be a potential marker for AD. Here, an electrochemical DNA biosensor based on polyamide/polyaniline carbon nanotubes (PA/PANI‐CNTs) is developed with the aim of diagnosing AD early using a simple, low‐cost, and accessible method to rapidly detect Aβ42 in human blood. Electrospun PA nanofibers served as the skeleton for the successive in situ deposition of PANI and CNTs, which contribute both high conductivity and abundant binding sites for the Aβ42 aptamers. After the aptamers are immobilized, this aptasensor exhibits precise and specific detection of Aβ42 in human blood within only 4 min with an extremely fast response rate, lower detection limit, and excellent linear detection range. These findings make a significant contribution to advancing the development of serum‐based detection techniques for Aβ42, thereby paving the way for improved diagnostic capabilities in the field of AD.
π–π Stacking Modulation via Polymer Adsorption for Elongated Exciton Diffusion in High‐Efficiency Thick‐Film Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Fu Zhen , Qiao Jia‐Wei , Cui Feng‐Zhe , Zhang Wen‐Qing , Wang Ling‐Hua , Lu Peng , Yin Hang , Du Xiao‐Yan , Qin Wei , Hao Xiao‐Tao
Published: February 2024

Developing efficient organic solar cells (OSCs) with thick active layers is crucial for roll‐to‐roll printing. However, thicker layers often result in lower efficiency. This study tackles this challenge using a polymer adsorption strategy combined with a layer‐by‐layer approach. Incorporating insulator polystyrene (PS) into the PM6:L8‐BO system creates PM6+PS:L8‐BO blends, effectively suppressing trap states and extending exciton diffusion length in the mixed donor domain. Adding insulating polymers with benzene rings to the donor enhances π–π stacking of donors, boosting intermolecular interactions and electron wave function overlap. This results in more orderly molecular stacking, longer exciton lifetimes, and higher diffusion lengths. The promoted long‐range exciton diffusion leads to high power conversion efficiencies of 19.05% and 18.15% for PM6+PS:L8‐BO blend films with 100 and 300 nm thickness, respectively, as well as a respectable 16.00% for 500 nm. These insights guide material selection for better exciton diffusion, and offer a method for thick‐film OSC fabrication, promoting a prosperous future for practical OSC mass production.
Direct Visualization of Confinement and Many‐Body Correlation Effects in 2D Spectroscopy of Quantum Dots
Authors: Amarotti Edoardo , Wang Zhengjun , Hedse Albin , Lenngren Nils , Žídek Karel , Zheng Kaibo , Zigmantas Donatas , Pullerits Tõnu
Published: February 2024

The size tunable color of colloidal semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) is probably the most elegant illustration of the quantum confinement effect. As explained by the simple “particle‐in‐a‐box” model, the transition energies between the levels increase when the “box” becomes smaller. To investigate quantum confinement effects, typically a well‐defined narrow size distribution of the nanoparticles is needed. In this contribution, how coherent electronic two‐dimensional spectroscopy (2DES) can directly visualize the quantum size effect in a sample with broad size distribution of QDs is demonstrated. The method is based on two features of the 2DES – the ability to resolve inhomogeneous broadening and the capability to reveal correlations between the states. In QD samples, inhomogeneous spectral broadening is mainly caused by the size distribution and leads to elongated diagonal peaks of the spectra. Since the cross peaks correlate the energies of two states, they allow drawing conclusions about the size dependence of the corresponding states. It is also found that the biexciton binding energy changes between 3 and 8 meV with the QD size. Remarkably, the size dependence is non‐monotonic with a clear minimum.
An Overview of Advancements and Technologies in Vascularization Strategies for Tumor‐On‐A‐Chip Models
Authors: Parihar Pratibha , Sunildutt Naina , Rahim Chethikkattuveli Salih Abdul , Samantasinghar Anupama , Lim Jong Hwan , Choi Kyung Hyun
Published: February 2024

Vascularized tumor on a chip (VToC) entail emulating intricate microvascular networks like those observed in tumors through microfluidic devices, which are meticulously designed to offer a faithful representation of cancer in vitro, exploration of tumor biology, evaluation of drug efficacy, and anticipation of patient responses to therapies. Compared to conventional ones, VToC systems hold advantages by creating a milieu where physiological conditions for investigating tumor–host interactions are pivotal in tumor advancement/therapy resilience. Nevertheless, VToC models confront limitations encompassing vascular network replication, biological fidelity, mechanical/chemical integrity, and intricacies of architectural design. Thus, drawbacks inherent to prevailing VToC models’ intricacies, attributes, and vascular network establishment are imperative. This systematic review focuses on the recent advancements, technologies explored for incorporating VToC models, and vascularization approaches for investigation, and factors/parameters affecting complex tumor microenvironments in VToC models, along with the futuristic approach for the design strategies, fabrication techniques, understanding of vascular network, also VToC models with spheroid. A comprehensive analysis of VToC based on their limitations for a practical approach highlights the promising strategies for possible applications. This will be essential regarding a complete overview of VToC models and the future direction toward developing efficient VToC models compared to the state‐of‐the‐art VToC.
Exploring Trans Effect Concept in Pt(II) Complexes through the Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules and Chemical Bond Overlap Model Perspectives
Authors: Santos‐Jr Carlos V. , Da Silva Gabriela M. B. , Dias Roberta P. , Moura Renaldo T. , Da Silva Júlio C. S.
Published: February 2024

This study utilizes Density Functional Theory (DFT) alongside the Chemical Bond Overlap (OP) Model and Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM) to reinterpret the well‐established trans effect in square‐planar Pt(II) complexes. Investigating ligand exchange mechanisms in trans‐[()T] (T = , , , , CO, ) via transition state localization and intrinsic reaction coordinate calculations, overlap descriptors (OP/TOP) such as density, repulsion, and polarizability are computed for Pt−T and Pt−L bonds for reactants and transition states. Through OP/TOP and QTAIM, key descriptors correlating are identified with the trans‐directing effectiveness of ligands, revealing higher electron density donation and more electron‐rich bonds in stronger trans‐directing ligands. This combined methodology offers insights into ligand trans‐directing character, enhancing understanding of their reactivity and bonding behavior.
Enantioselective Vinylogous Mukaiyama‐Michael Reaction of Silyl Ketene Acetals to α,β‐Unsaturated 2‐Acyl Imidazoles to Construct 1,7‐dioxo Compounds
Authors: Gill Mamta , Das Arko , Singh Vinod K.
Published: February 2024

The synthesis of chiral 1,7‐dioxo compounds via Sc(III)‐pybox catalyzed vinylogous Mukaiyama‐Michael reaction of vinyl ketene silyl acetals with α,β‐unsaturated 2‐acyl imidazoles has been described. This innovative approach to the formation of chiral 1,7‐dioxo compounds illustrates excellent regio‐, and enantioselectivities, demonstrating a broad substrate scope. So far, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of a metal‐catalyzed asymmetric vinylogous Mukaiyama‐Michael reaction using vinyl ketene silyl acetals.
Natural Polymer‐Based Materials for Wound Healing Applications
Authors: Ho Trinh Thi‐Phuong , Tran Hien A. , Doan Vinh Khanh , Maitz Joanneke , Li Zhe , Wise Steven G. , Lim Khoon S. , Rnjak‐Kovacina Jelena
Published: February 2024

Skin injuries pose significant health challenges, with conditions like burns and diabetic, venous, and pressure ulcers presenting complex wound management scenarios. Effective wound care strategies for these injuries encompass a range of interventions, from simple wound dressings to bioactive materials and surgical procedures involving skin substitutes and skin grafting. This review explores the potential of natural polymers, including silk, collagen, gelatin, elastin, cellulose, chitosan, alginate, and hyaluronic acid, in wound management. Natural polymers offer several advantages, including abundance, biodegradability, and compatibility with traditional and modern material fabrication techniques, and have demonstrated safety and efficacy in clinical applications, modulating various facets of the wound healing process. Highlighting preclinical and clinical studies, along with commercial products, this review showcases the versatility and utility of natural polymers in wound management and provides insights into emerging developments, such as 3D bioprinting and stimuli‐responsive materials, which hold promise for personalized wound treatments. Additionally, we discuss the importance of the material format and morphology in engineering the next generation of wound dressings and skin substitutes, offering a pathway to optimize natural polymers for enhanced wound healing outcomes.
To be alive or not to be alive: Radiocarbon data provide new perspective on species diversity in the Caspian Sea
Authors: Clewing Catharina , Albrecht Christian , Anistratenko Vitaliy V. , Anistratenko Olga Yu. , Wilke Thomas
Published: February 2024

The Caspian Sea is undergoing a severe biodiversity crisis. However, estimates of current extinction rates are difficult to obtain due to the lack of reliable pre‐Anthropocene baseline data. For example, because the majority of endemic gastropod species was described from “fresh looking” shells, it remains unclear which species still existed prior to the Anthropocene.

This study therefore used the species‐rich microgastropod family Hydrobiidae to assess the extent to which endemic species were collected alive during the Anthropocene. Literature and database searches were performed. In addition, 14C dating was conducted on “fresh looking” shells collected in the Caspian Sea during the last 150 years.

The literature review revealed that 75% of the “recent” species are only known from empty shells and 25% were recorded with a soft body. The 14C data showed that all “recent” specimens examined had an age between 1624 cal BC and 1888 cal AD. Two species studied predate the beginning of the Anthropocene. Two other species potentially or likely existed during the Anthropocene. This suggests that the number of endemic species still present at the beginning of the Anthropocene is lower than previously thought.

The data also suggest that there was a substantial loss of species between the late 18th century and the 1950s and that only two endemic hydrobiid species have recently been found alive. These findings further contribute to the notion of a severe biodiversity crisis in the Caspian Sea.

For accurate estimates of current extinction rates of Caspian Sea gastropods, pre‐Anthropocene biodiversity data need to be further corroborated. Particularly, studies are required to clarify the taxonomic status of the dubious taxa and a possible “collection crisis” in the Caspian Sea due to decreasing sampling efforts in recent decades. In addition, comprehensive IUCN assessments are urgently required.
Visible Light‐Induced Metal‐free Arylation of Coumarin‐3‐carboxylates with Arylboronic Acids
Authors: Banik Swarnayu , Saikiran Aita , Permula Prathyusha , Srivishnu K. S. , Sridhar B. , Reddy B. V. Subba
Published: February 2024

The present work represents a novel methodology for the selective arylation of coumarin‐3‐carboxylates with arylboronic acids via a photochemical route, marking the first‐ever attempt for the direct alkenyl C−H arylation using rose bengal as a photocatalyst, which is a readily available and cost‐effective alternative to transition metal catalysis. The reaction proceeds smoothly in MeOH/H2O solvent media in the presence of radical initiator affording the arylated products in good yields (60–80 %). The reaction parameters such as visible light, radical initiator, oxidant, anhydrous solvent, and inert atmosphere play a crucial role for the success of this methodology. The substituents present on the substrate show a significant effect on the conversion. This study provides a valuable contribution to the field of organic synthesis offering a new and efficient approach to the arylation of coumarin‐3‐carboxylic acid esters with a broad substrate scope and high functional group tolerance. It is a versatile method and provides a direct access to biologically relevant 4‐arylcoumarin‐3‐carboxylates.
Sodium‐Mediated Reductive C−C Bond Cleavage Assisted by Boryl Groups
Authors: Fukazawa Mizuki , Takahashi Fumiya , Kurogi Takashi , Yorimitsu Hideki
Published: February 2024

In contrast to the well‐established oxidative C=C double bond cleavage to give the corresponding carbonyl compounds, little is known about reductive C=C double bond cleavage. Here we report that C−C single bond cleavage in 1,2‐diaryl‐1,2‐diborylethanes proceeds by reduction with sodium metal to yield α‐boryl benzylsodium species. In combination with our previous reductive diboration of stilbenes, the overall transformation represents reductive cleavage of the C=C double bonds of stilbene to yield α‐boryl‐α‐sodiated toluenes. This reductive two‐step C=C double bond cleavage is applicable to ring‐opening or ring‐expansion reactions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
In‐situ Polymerized Single Lithium‐ion Conducting Binder as an Integrated Strategy for High Voltage LNMO Electrodes
Authors: Olmedo‐González Jorge , Guzmán‐González Gregorio , Manzo‐Robledo Arturo , Ramírez‐Rosales Daniel , Arellano‐Ahumada Stephany N. , Vera‐Ramírez Marco A. , González Ignacio , de Guadalupe González‐Huerta Rosa , Ramos‐Sanchez Guadalupe
Published: February 2024

Invited for this month's cover picture is the Electrochemical Energy laboratory at Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Iztapalapa in Mexico City in collaboration with ESIQIE IPN and ESFM IPN. The front cover displays a schematic representation of the in‐situ preparation of the electrode using single‐ion‐conductive binders; this process results in reduced degradation of both the LMNO electrode and electrolyte. In the background, there is an image of the landmark mural entitled “Death of Ignorance and Transformation of Society” by A. Belkin, located at the premises of UAM‐I, the institute where the primary research was conducted. The mural picture and logos are used with the permission of UAM president. The graphic composition is credited to D.G. Liliana Hidalgo Sánchez de Tagle. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/batt.202300383.
Explainable deep learning enhances robust and reliable real‐time monitoring of a chromatographic protein A capture step
Authors: Medl Matthias , Leisch Friedrich , Dürauer Astrid , Scharl Theresa
Published: February 2024

The application of model‐based real‐time monitoring in biopharmaceutical production is a major step toward quality‐by‐design and the fundament for model predictive control. Data‐driven models have proven to be a viable option to model bioprocesses. In the high stakes setting of biopharmaceutical manufacturing it is essential to ensure high model accuracy, robustness, and reliability. That is only possible when (i) the data used for modeling is of high quality and sufficient size, (ii) state‐of‐the‐art modeling algorithms are employed, and (iii) the input‐output mapping of the model has been characterized. In this study, we evaluate the accuracy of multiple data‐driven models in predicting the monoclonal antibody (mAb) concentration, double stranded DNA concentration, host cell protein concentration, and high molecular weight impurity content during elution from a protein A chromatography capture step. The models achieved high‐quality predictions with a normalized root mean squared error of <4% for the mAb concentration and of ≈10% for the other process variables. Furthermore, we demonstrate how permutation/occlusion‐based methods can be used to gain an understanding of dependencies learned by one of the most complex data‐driven models, convolutional neural network ensembles. We observed that the models generally exhibited dependencies on correlations that agreed with first principles knowledge, thereby bolstering confidence in model reliability. Finally, we present a workflow to assess the model behavior in case of systematic measurement errors that may result from sensor fouling or failure. This study represents a major step toward improved viability of data‐driven models in biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
Correlation between the activation energy of PLA respectively PLA/starch composites and mechanical properties with regard to differ accelerated aging conditions
Authors: Reit Margarita , Zarges Jan‐Christoph , Heim Hans‐Peter
Published: February 2024

Within this research semi‐crystalline polylactide and composites with 50 wt.% native potato starch were compounded and injection molded. The material was mechanically characterized by tensile, three‐point bending, and Charpy impact tests. These tests were carried out in the freshly molded state and after 332 and 792 h of storage at accelerated temperature or humidity. The respective activation energy was calculated by applying the Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa method. The focus of the study was to investigate the correlation between the activation energy and the related mechanical and thermal properties. The results showed that the addition of native potato starch as a filler prevents the decrease in activation energy over the course of the experiments. Thus, the PLA/starch composite is more resistant to the two aging conditions than the pure PLA. When considering the mechanical properties, the pure PLA showed a large deviation of results compared to the initial value in a range of +63.88% to −33.96% with regard to the respective aging conditions, whereas the PLA/starch composite properties nearly always remained at the initial values. Through the investigation of the mechanical and thermal properties, it was shown that the steady activation energies are consistent with the mechanical properties, as these have shown only a small deviation of the mechanical properties during the duration of experiments for the PLA/starch composite.
New‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus after BBIBP‐CorV vaccination
Authors: Pourkarim Fariba , Khani Elnaz , Ghadakchi Leila , Ebrahimian Sanaz
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

While reports of new‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) after mRNA‐based COVID‐19 vaccines exist, no such reports have been documented following inactivated vaccines. We describe a case of SLE after receiving the BBIBP‐CorV vaccine. The patient exhibited characteristic SLE criteria, indicating a possible association between the inactivated vaccine and new‐onset SLE.
Understanding the Role of Additives on The Electrochemistry and Performance of Zn Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Bengoa L. N. , González‐Gil R. M. , Gómez‐Romero P.
Published: February 2024

As the interest in alternative Li‐based energy storage technologies increased during the last years, zinc emerged as a promising candidate. Despite several advantages over Li, Zn cycling stability is still a major issue. In this article, the use of near‐neutral electrolytes (non‐expensive 2 M ZnSO4) with the addition of different additives (dimethylsulfoxide and tetratethylammonium chloride) is proposed as a solution. The Zn deposition/dissolution electrochemistry has been evaluated and the cycling stability was determined in Zn//Zn symmetric coin‐cells. Hybrid supercapacitors were also assembled and tested in a range of 0.2 V–1.8 V for 2000 cycles, using activated carbon electrodes as cathode and Zn foil as anode. The results show that dimethylsulfoxide strongly inhibits the Zn deposition process, evidenced by a decrease in the cathodic current density, as well as in the dissolution peak. DMSO affects the deposition mechanism, whereas tetratethylammonium chloride reduces the exchange current density, consistent with the adsorption of tetraethylammonium ions on the Zn surface. A synergy between both additives leading to further inhibition of Zn2+ reduction is observed allowing cycling up to 250 hours for Zn//Zn devices. In addition, the performance of hybrid supercapacitors has also improved showing better capacity and extended cycle life.