bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Underreporting of Overweight and Obesity in Primary Care: A Cross-sectional Study of Children Aged 6–11 Years old
Authors: Alanis Yadira Guadalupe Viveros , Lopez-Hernandez Daniel , Oviedo-Chavez Aldo , Brito-Aranda Leticia , Sandoval-Morales Alejandra , Castillo-Cruz Tania , Beltran-Lagunes Luis , Mancilla-Del-Alto Berenice , Gamboa-Martinez Dora Orquidea , Salinas-Palacios Perla Veronica , Liceaga-Perez Liliana Grisel , Jimenez-Hernandez Rocio Liliana , Olivares-Lopez Xochitl Liliana , Noguez-Alvarez Victor Hugo , Aviles Edgar Cruz , Flores-Morales Guadalupe Jacqueline , Torres-García Edgar Esteban , Anguiano-Velazquez Tabata Gabriela , Nuñez-Calvillo Miguel Angel , Juarez-Montoya Carmen Lizzete , Ambrosio-Ramirez Israel
Published: February 2025

Aims: To explore the underreporting of nutritional status among children aged 6–11 years old in primary care, assessed using BMI categories (from World Health Organization). Additionally, the study will evaluate the prevalence of overweight and obesity by age and sex and examine whether identified cases are being referred to specialised services, such as paediatrics or nutrition.
Study Design:  A descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted through a retrospective review of medical records.
Place and Duration of Study: Ambulatory Care Medical Unit. The study was carried out from February 1st to December 31st, 2024, with Mexican paediatric patients attending outpatient consultations in the Family Medicine Specialty and General Medicine departments at the "División del Norte" Family Medicine Clinic, ISSSTE, in Mexico City, Mexico. The data was collected from  January, 2022 to December, 2022.
Methodology: Data on health and sociodemographic variables was collected through a retrospective design, using medical records.
Results: We included 363 medical records of paediatric patients, mainly boys (50.7%, 95% CI: 45.5–55.9). The age average, weight, height and BMI was similar between girls and boys (p value >0.05). The largest proportion of children were underweight (n=204, 56.2%; CI95% 51.5-61.2), followed by normal weight (n=130, 35.9%; CI95% 30.3-41.3). Smaller proportions were classified as overweight (n=25, 6.9%; CI95% 4.7-9.6) and with obesity (N=4, 1.1%; CI95% 0.3-2.5). A total of 10 patients (2.8%) were diagnosed during consultations, leaving a significant majority undiagnosed (n=353, 97.2% CI95% 95.3-98.6). Boys were four times more likely than girls to be referred to paediatric services (25% vs. 5.9%). In contrast, girls showed a slightly higher likelihood of being referred to nutrition services compared to boys (23.5% vs. 16.7%).
Conclusion: Malnutrition is the most prevalent nutritional disorder. Overweight and obesity are significantly underreported. This study emphasises the importance of improving the identification, diagnosis, and referral of children with nutritional disorders in primary care settings.
Antioxidative Potential of Telfairia occidentalis Aqueous Leaves Extract in Mitigating Cyclophosphamide-Induced Neurotoxicity in Wistar Rats
Authors: Khadijat Abdulsalam Motunrayo , Opeyemi Adejinmi Suliat , Eunice Oresanya Motunrayo , Ehimare Ehiremen Samuel , Bello Taiwo Hassan , Olubunmi Taiwo-Ola Dorcas , Adeola Adelakin Lola , A Suleiman Isa , Bamidele Fakunle Ponle
Published: February 2025

Aim: This study sought to investigate the antioxidative potentials of Telfairia occidentalis aqueous leaves extract (TOAE) on cyclophosphamide (CP) induced neurotoxicity in rats.
Study Design: This study sought to investigate the antioxidative potentials of Telfairia occidentalis aqueous leaf extract (TOAE) on cyclophosphamide induced neurotoxicity in rats.
Place and duration of the study: This study was carried out in the Department of Anatomy, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria between October, 2023 and September, 2024
Methods: 25 Adult wistar rats were assigned into five different groups I-V of (n=5) which were respectively exposed for 14 days as follow to Normal saline, TOAE only (400 mg/kg b.w), 400 mg/kg b.w TOAE with single dose of 100 mg/kg CP on 14th day, single dose 100 mg/kg CP only on day 1 and single dose of 100 mg/kg CP only on day 1 followed by 400 mg/kg b.w of TOAE for 14 days. CP was administered intraperitoneally and TOAE was administered orally. All the animals were sacrificed at the end of designated exposure and processed for biochemical evaluations using standard protocols.
Results: CP mediated inflammation in cerebellum of rats with a significant increase in MDA, CAT, IL-1β and TNF-α significant decrease in SOD and Gpx levels compared with a control group.  Lipid peroxidation was also induced following exposure of rats to CP. There is a marked decrease in antioxidant enzymes activities in CP group. However, treatment with TOAE markedly inhibited the inflammation by reversing the elevated levels of inflammatory markers. Furthermore, TOAE suppressed the lipid peroxidation chain reaction by reducing the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and catalase CAT. TOAE attenuates CP-induced oxidative stress by increase the level of GPx and superoxide dismutase enhancing the activities of the cytoprotective enzymes (catalase and glutathione-S- transferase). Serum levels of Interleukin-2/1-beta and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), were measured on the 15th day after exposure. The effect of TOAE was deduced on anti-inflammatory and antioxidants properties. Taken together, TOAE inhibited inflammation, suppressed lipid peroxidation, attenuated oxidative stress, and enhanced the antioxidant enzymes activities.
Conclusion: These therapeutic effects of TOAE might be due to its phytochemicals. The findings of this study indicate that aqueous leaf extract of T. occidentalis has could be a drug candidate for the treatment of the immunosuppressive effect of cyclophosphamide on neurotoxicity.
Economic Growth and Environmental Degradation in ASEAN-10 Countries: An Econometric Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Bhakta Bidisha , Maiti Susobhan
Published: February 2025

The linkage between GDP growth and CO2 emissions is studied in this research among the ASEAN-10 countries, as for the gradual economic growth received by the ASEAN economy; we need to analyze the complex and nonlinear relationship between the environmental indicator CO2 and economic growth. In recent decades, ASEAN countries have passed through a period of rapid economic development associated with industrialization, urbanization, and increasing foreign direct investment. But this growth has entailed a heavy environmental cost — soaring carbon emissions, deforestation, and pollution. By using econometric methods, such as Granger causality and Johansen cointegration tests, this study investigates the short-term and long-term relationship between Economic Growth and Environmental Degradation across ASEAN 10 countries from 1990 to 2023.The results show notable country-specific economic-environmental relationships. Countries such as Cambodia and the Philippines, on the other hand, demonstrate this strong causality where GDP growth causes emissions to increase, which implies the presence of energy-intensive industries and weak regulatory frameworks. In contrast, we see severe growth in countries such as Singapore, which has invested in renewable energy and tough environmental policies. The study reflects the importance of renewable energy, technology innovation, and regional cooperation in sustainable development. Besides advocating for green growth strategy across ASEAN, the analysis makes it evident that the need for the involvements of customized policies are required to address the distinctive national challenges. These recommendations include expanding the adoption of renewable energy technologies, implementing more stringent environmental regulations, and encouraging global collaboration.
Contemporary Bangladesh: An Econometric Descriptive Analysis of Social Media Shaping Narratives, Gen-Z Identity, and Political Engagement
Authors: Ali Md. Memon , Al-Amin Md.
Published: February 2025

This research discusses how social media is drastically changing the face of identity and political involvement for Gen-Z in Bangladesh, drawing on different social theories. It focuses on the shift from dominant meta-narratives to the shift to personalized micro-narratives driven by digital platforms. Drawing on the theory of Francois Lyotard, reporting the decline of meta-narratives, and from Anthony Giddens' Structuration theory, the paper explores how such theoretical positions have accounted for the dynamics within the lives of young people residing in the digital age. Data collection was a mixed-methods process wherein questionnaires were distributed to 115 Bangladeshi university students over an online modality. As a result, from the analysis that social media in Bangladesh shapes individual identities while developing political engagement among the youth thereby contributing to the evolution of the socio-political environment. The study reveals that frequent social media use contributes significantly to individual identity formation and moderate political engagement among Bangladeshi youth.
Inertial Igniter of Small Thermal Batteries for Artillery Munitions
Authors: Song Sehwan , Lee Youlim , Kim Hyun-Jun , Yoon Sang-Hee
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a simple-structured inertial igniter for thermal batteries of gun-fired munitions, where the setback acceleration generated by gun firing is employed to activate the thermal batteries. The inertial igniter, composed of a ring-shaped slider supported by a spring, a striker held by locking balls, a percussion primer, and a housing, provides striking action (to the percussion primer) for thermal battery activation only when the setback acceleration time profile satisfies the predetermined threshold, thus preventing accidental ignition. A theoretical analysis and an ANSYS dynamic analysis were conducted to estimate the dynamic behavior of an inertial igniter under setback acceleration, thereby informing the design of the inertial igniter. The efficacy of our design methodologies was fully validated through shock tests for the inertial igniter. While both methods yielded reliable estimations, the theoretical analysis-based method proved to be more efficient in terms of calculation time and effort than the simulation-based one.
Design and Performance Analysis of Ducted Propeller for 10kW-class Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Kim Sanghyun , Kim Jihye
Published: February 2025

This study presents the design and performance analysis of a 10kW-class ducted propeller for an unmanned underwater vehicle(UUV). The initial design was based on the Ka-series propellers, determining the optimal blade number, propeller diameter, and mean pitch ratio. During the detailed design phase, considerations included the minimum expanded area ratio and hub ratio based on the underwater vehicle's geometry. Key design variables such as radial distributions of pitch and chord length were optimized to ensure manufacturability and high propeller open-water(POW) performance. For the POW performance analysis of the designed ducted propeller, a commercial computational fluid dynamics(CFD) software, STAR-CCM+ was utilized. The detailed design achieved a 1.6 % improvement in propulsion efficiency compared to the initial design at an advance ratio of 0.7.
Patient Care Technician Staffing and Outcomes Among US Patients Receiving In-Center Hemodialysis
Authors: Plantinga Laura C. , Bender Alexis A. , Urbanski Megan , Douglas-Ajayi Clarica , Morgan Jennifer Craft , Woo Karen , Jaar Bernard G.
Published: March 2024

Importance

Dialysis patient care technicians (PCTs) play a critical role in US in-center hemodialysis (HD) care, but little is known about the association of PCT staffing with patient outcomes at US HD facilities.

Objective

To estimate the associations of in-center HD patient outcomes with facility-level PCT staffing.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a retrospective cohort study, with data analysis performed from March 2023 to January 2024. Data on US patients with end-stage kidney disease and their treatment facilities were obtained from the US Renal Data System. Participants included patients (aged 18-100 years) initiating in-center HD between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2018, who continued receiving in-center HD for 90 days or more and had data on PCT staffing at their initial treating HD facility.

Exposure

Facility-level patient-to-PCT ratios (number of HD patients divided by the number of PCTs reported by the treating facility in the prior year), categorized into quartiles (highest quartile denotes the highest PCT burden).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Patient-level outcomes included 1-year patient mortality, hospitalization, and transplantation. Associations of outcomes with quartile of patient-to-PCT ratio were estimated using incidence rate ratios (IRRs) from mixed-effects Poisson regression, with adjustment for patient demographics and clinical and facility factors.

Results

A total of 236 126 patients (mean [SD] age, 63.1 [14.4] years; 135 952 [57.6%] male; 65 945 [27.9%] Black; 37 777 [16.0%] Hispanic; 153 637 [65.1%] White; 16 544 [7.0%] other race; 146 107 [61.9%] with diabetes) were included. After full adjustment, the highest vs lowest quartile of facility-level patient-to-PCT ratio was associated with a 7% higher rate of patient mortality (IRR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.02-1.12), a 5% higher rate of hospitalization (IRR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.02-1.08), an 8% lower rate of waitlisting (IRR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.85-0.98), and a 20% lower rate of transplant (IRR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.71-0.91). The highest vs lowest quartile of patient-to-PCT ratio was also associated with an 8% higher rate of sepsis-related hospitalization (IRR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.03-1.14) and a 15% higher rate of vascular access–related hospitalization (IRR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.03-1.28).

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that initiation of treatment in facilities with the highest patient-to-PCT ratios may be associated with worse early mortality, hospitalization, and transplantation outcomes. These results support further investigation of the impact of US PCT staffing on patient safety and quality of US in-center HD care.
Advanced strategies in improving the immunotherapeutic effect of CAR‐T cell therapy
Authors: Wang Minmin , Jia Linzi , Dai Xiangpeng , Zhang Xiaoling
Published: March 2024

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR‐T) cell therapy is a newly developed immunotherapy strategy and has achieved satisfactory outcomes in the treatment of hematological malignancies. However, some adverse effects related to CAR‐T cell therapy have to be resolved before it is widely used in clinics as a cancer treatment. Furthermore, the application of CAR‐T cell therapy in the treatment of solid tumors has been hampered by numerous limitations. Therefore, it is essential to explore novel strategies to improve the therapeutic effect of CAR‐T cell therapy. In this review, we summarized the recently developed strategies aimed at optimizing the generation of CAR‐T cells and improving the anti‐tumor efficiency of CAR‐T cell therapy. Furthermore, the discovery of new targets for CAR‐T cell therapy and the combined treatment strategies of CAR‐T cell therapy with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, cancer vaccines and nanomaterials are highlighted.
Quantitative brain 18F‐FDG PET/CT analysis in seronegative autoimmune encephalitis
Authors: Roman Samantha N. , Sadaghiani Moe S. , Diaz‐Arias Luisa A. , Le Marechal Marion , Venkatesan Arun , Solnes Lilja B. , Probasco John C.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Brain 18F‐FDG PET/CT is a useful diagnostic in evaluating patients with suspected autoimmune encephalitis (AE). Specific patterns of brain dysmetabolism have been reported in anti‐NMDAR and anti‐LGI1 AE, and the degree of dysmetabolism may correlate with clinical functional status.18FDG‐PET/CT abnormalities have not yet been described in seronegative AE.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional analysis of brain18FDG‐PET/CT data in people with seronegative AE treated at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. Utilizing NeuroQ™ software, the Z‐scores of 47 brain regions were calculated relative to healthy controls, then visually and statistically compared for probable and possible AE per clinical consensus diagnostic criteria to previous data from anti‐NMDAR and anti‐LGI1 cohorts.

Results

Eight probable seronegative AE and nine possible seronegative AE were identified. The group only differed in frequency of abnormal brain MRI, which was seen in all of the probable seronegative AE patients. Both seronegative groups had similar overall patterns of brain dysmetabolism. A common pattern of frontal lobe hypometabolism and medial temporal lobe hypermetabolism was observed in patients with probable and possible seronegative AE, as well as anti‐NMDAR and anti‐LGI1 AE as part of their respective characteristic patterns of dysmetabolism. Four patients had multiple brain18FDG‐PET/CT scans, with changes in number and severity of abnormal brain regions mirroring clinical status.

Conclusions

A18FDG‐PET/CT pattern of frontal lobe hypometabolism and medial temporal lobe hypermetabolism could represent a common potential biomarker of AE, which along with additional clinical data may facilitate earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Tuning Interactions to Control Molecular Down Conversion in [2.2]Paracyclophane Bridged Oligo‐Tetracenes
Authors: Rapp Mario R. , Weiß René , Wollny Anna‐Sophie , Guldi Dirk M. , Bettinger Holger F.
Published: March 2024

In tetracene, the energies of the lowest singlet excited state and twice that of the lowest triplet excited state are similar, allowing both down‐conversion (i.e., singlet fission, SF) and up‐conversion (i.e., triplet‐triplet annihilation up‐conversion, TTA‐UC) processes. Through‐space and through‐bond contributions to the inter‐tetracene coupling in purposefully designed oligomers play a crucial role in determining which of the two processes dominates. In this work, the focus is exclusively on SF in newly synthesized oligo‐tetracenes linked by conjugated [2.2]paracyclophane (PCP) building blocks. By choosing different PCP substitution patterns and by varying the degree of substitution the inter‐tetracene couplings are addressed. An independent variable is connecting the tetracences to the PCP at different positions to alter the through‐bond and through‐space coupling of the resulting oligo‐tetracenes. The novel oligo‐tetracenes are investigated by means of steady‐state and time‐resolved absorption and fluorescence spectroscopies with respect to the initial events of SF, that is, the transformation of a singlet excited state into a correlated triplet pair state. Briefly, through‐space couplings are profoundly weaker than through‐bond couplings that enable the correlated triplet pair state formation. If interactions are through‐space, correlated triplet pair state formation is turned off, while it is turned on if through‐bond interactions are operative.
Oncolytic Virus‐Like Nanoparticles for Tumor‐Specific Gene Delivery
Authors: Li Yuchao , Yang Haiyuan , Zong Xiaoqing , Li Xiaodi , Yuan Pengfei , Yang Caiqi , Chen Xinjie , Yan Xiaodie , Wen Yaoqi , Zhu Tianci , Xue Wei , Dai Jian
Published: March 2024

Nucleic acid drugs are widely used in biomedical fields. However, one of the main challenges in vivo is to selectively deliver nucleic acid drugs to subcellular compartments. To solve this problem, an oncolytic virus‐like nanoparticle, OV@FN, is constructed that can directly deliver nucleic acids to the cytoplasm through membrane fusion in response to the slightly acidic environment of the tumor. OV@FN is composed of a nano‐core (NA‐Zn@G) that can accurately release nucleic acids in response to high concentrations of glutathione in the cytoplasm of tumor cells and a hybrid membrane vesicle (FN) expressing oncolytic virus fusion membrane glycoprotein (mVSV‐G). The study findings suggest that OV@FN efficiently and selectively delivers nucleic acids to the cytoplasm of tumor cells, as compared to normal cells. Importantly, FN effectively induces tumor cells to form a syncytium, thus promoting intracellular drug diffusion, and enhancing the gene therapy effect. In vivo gene silencing test shows that OVsiR@FN has a significant nucleic acid delivery performance. In the melanoma model, the OV3pdsR@FN shows remarkable tumor ablation ability and improves the immunosuppressive microenvironment of the tumor site. OV@FN offers a novel approach to designing gene delivery and tumor therapy platforms.
A Lithiophilic–Lithiophobic Gradient Solid Electrolyte Interface Toward a Highly Stable Solid‐State Polymer Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Zhai Pengfei , Ahmad Niaz , Qu Shuangquan , Feng Ligang , Yang Wen
Published: March 2024

The functional lithiophilic−lithiophobic gradient solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) between Li‐metal anode and solid‐state polymer electrolytes may be effective in addressing the long‐standing issue of side reactions and Li‐dendrite growth during repeated deposition or dissolution in solid‐state polymer‐based high‐energy‐density batteries. Herein, a reliable lithiophilic–lithiophobic gradient SEI (G‐SEI) of LiAg‐LiF/Li3N is in situ formed by AgTFSI, used as an additive for polyethylene oxide‐based electrolyte (PEO‐Ag). The upper layer consists of a lithiophobic LiF/Li3N‐rich layer, wherein LiF possesses a high interfacial energy, while Li3N enables fast Li+ diffusion, which synergistically facilitates the uniform deposition of Li+. Lithiophilic Li–Ag alloy can effectively reduce the nucleation overpotential and promote more planar growth of lithium. Furthermore, such G‐SEI possesses a high mechanical modulus, mitigating the penetration of dendrites through the SEI and thereby preventing the continuous degradation of the PEO‐based electrolyte. As a result, an over three times improvement in the lifespan of Li | PEO‐Ag | LFP cell is achieved, demonstrating an 81.4% capacity retention rate after 500 cycles at 1C, as compared to Li | PEO | LFP cell with common SEI. Thus, the developments of the lithiophilic‐lithiophobic gradient SEI provide a substantial path toward high‐performance solid‐state lithium batteries.
Chemical Vapor Deposition Growth of Atomically Thin SnSb2Te4 Single Crystals Toward Fast Photodetection
Authors: Li Yuan , Li Di , Wazir Nasrullah , Zhu Yong , Wang Yushu , Wang Qiwei , Zhou Wenhan , Zhou Jian , Li Songlin , Li Shaochun , Zhang Shengli , Zeng Haibo , Zhou Wu , Shi Yi , Hao Yufeng
Published: March 2024

SnSb2Te4 (SST), a ternary van der Waals (vdW) material, has been widely investigated during last decades for potential applications in superconductivity, thermoelectricity, and optoelectronics. Recently, atomically thin SST has been predicted to show abnormal electronic band structure evolutions, high carrier mobility, and strong light–matter interaction. However, controllable synthesis of such SST crystals has been a huge challenge. Herein, atomically thin SST flakes are prepared via a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method by using SbCl3, SnCl4·5H2O, and Te as the precursors. Multiple structural characterizations reveal that the SST flakes are single crystals with high crystallinity. Due to the narrow bandgap of 0.42 eV, SST‐based photodetectors have a broadband spectrum detection range from visible light through communication bands (480–1550 nm). More importantly, benefiting from a high room‐temperature carrier mobility over 300 cm2 V−1 s−1, the SST photodetectors demonstrate a response/recovery time of tens of tens of microseconds, which exceeds most typical transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) flakes. In addition, the photodetector maintains high performance after being exposed to the air for 2 months, suggesting good environmental stability. These excellent performances suggest that the SST flakes are promising for next‐generation optoelectronics.
Bioinspired Dynamic Matrix Based on Developable Structure of MXene‐Cellulose Nanofibers (CNF) Soft Actuators
Authors: Dai Tiantian , Liu Yanting , Rong Dandan , Wang Meng , Qi Zhenkun , Zhao Yinling , Wang Xiandi , Yang Qing , Wei Lei , Chen Mengxiao
Published: March 2024

Inspired by natural organisms, soft actuators can convert environmental stimuli into mechanical deformation, making them indispensable for applications in a variety of fields such as soft robotics. MXene, displaying exceptional attributes in conductivity, thermal efficiency, good dispersibility etc., has emerged as a preferred material for high‐performance thermal actuators. However, single actuators struggle to achieve complex tasks realized by intelligent robotic systems. Herein, a bioinspired dynamic matrix is presented utilizing the developable structure of MXene‐cellulose nanofibers (CNF) soft actuators. The inclusion of CNF considerably bolsters the mechanical properties of MXene. The MXene‐CNF film possessed a higher working strain range (≈14%) than pure MXene film (≈2%). The designed developable structures complete the actuating movements. The sensing layer integration with the actuating layer led to an extremely low touch detection limit (0.3 kPa) and expedited actuating‐feedback due to the interaction between contact charging and electrostatic induction. A responsive dynamic matrix containing 3 × 3 soft actuators, completed with a close‐looped sensing‐feedback function, is developed similar to the behavior of the mimosa plant. This mimosa‐inspired dynamic matrix is capable of identifying the source of touch stimuli and providing immediate feedback. This research broadens the potential for enhancing adaptability and intelligence of soft robotic system.
A Coherent Pd–Pd16B3 Core–Shell Electrocatalyst for Controlled Hydrogenation in Nitrogen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Wen Yankun , Wang Tongde , Hao Jiace , Zhuang Zechao , Gao Guohua , Lai Feili , Lu Shuanglong , Wang Xiaofan , Kang Qi , Wu Guangming , Du Mingliang , Zhu Han
Published: March 2024

The manipulation of surface catalytic sites has rarely been explored for metal borides, and the subsurface effects on the electrocatalytic activity of the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) remain unknown. Herein, this work develops a core–shell nanoparticle catalyst with a Pd core that ensures high electron transfer rates and an Pd16B3 atomical shell that possess tunable active sites for regulating the NRR. The atomic structural evolution from Pd to Pd16B3 is investigated by precisely controlling the B atom diffusion, molecular rearrangement, and d–sp orbital hybridization. Pd/Pd16B3 core–shell nanocrystals exhibit an exceptional NRR performance with a high NH3 Faradaic efficiency of 30.8%, which is superior to those of pristine Pd (1.2%) and B‐doped Pd (4.8%) under identical conditions, and a yield rate of 0.81 µmol h−1 cm−2. This work discovers that the Pd16B3 shell could promote the NRR selectivity by separating the separating the hydrogen evolution reaction proceeded on hole sites and NRR proceeded on bridge sites, and the Pd core could provide the excellent conductivity to Pd16B3 shell through regulated electron interactions. Consequently, the controlled chemical ordering of palladium boride on palladium surfaces provides insight into the synthesis of advanced NRR electrocatalysts.
Oriented Growth of Parallel‐Standing Bimetallic Nanosheet Arrays for Enhanced Charge Transfer
Authors: Zhou Yu , Hu Yiping , Lu Shaojie , Wang Dong , Ma Dongsheng , Gong Xueqing , Yue Qin
Published: March 2024

Fabricating highly oriented 2D nanosheet arrays is crucial for boosting their performance in electronics, catalysis, optics, and energy conversion, while it remains a challenge due to the high surface energy often leads to random aggregation or interlaced structure. In this study, it is found that the exposed facet of Fe2O3 can greatly influence the interface growth arrangement of bimetallic hydroxide (NiCo(OH)2) nanosheets. The NiCo(OH)2 nanosheets tend to parallel‐standing on the cubic and spindle Fe2O3 while random‐ and interlaced‐standing on the Fe2O3 hexagonal nanoplates and microspheres. The theoretical simulation further indicates the orientation of deposited hydroxide sheets is decided explicitly by the interfacial lattice match/mismatch. Compared to the common interlaced structure of nanosheets, the parallel‐standing nanosheet arrays reduce grain boundaries and improve the charge transfer efficiency. As a result, the derived NiCoP cages exhibit a promising oxygen evolution reaction performance with an overpotential of 255 mV at 10 mA cm−2, and the maximum current density of 400 mA cm−2 with the overpotential of 319 mV.
Microstructure Optimization in the Shear‐Exfoliated Bi6Cu2Se4O6 through Introducing Reduced Graphene Oxide Leads to Wide‐Ranged Thermoelectric Performance
Authors: Zheng Junqing , Wen Yi , Wang Sining , Li Yichen , Wang Siqi , Zhao Zhe , Liu Shan , Liu Shibo , Gao Xiang , Zhao Li‐Dong
Published: March 2024

Bi6Cu2Se4O6 is considered as an ideal n‐type thermoelectric material to pair with p‐type BiCuSeO for preparing oxyselenide‐based thermoelectric devices, but its thermoelectric performance is limited by poor electrical conductivity. In this research, the reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets are introduced into Bi6Cu2Se3.6Cl0.4O6 matrix through liquid‐phase shear exfoliation to modify the microstructure. rGO can insert into matrix grains as intercalations, or embed into grain boundaries as wetting phase, and prompt grain alignment, which contributes to the significantly enhanced carrier mobility, thus leading to an improvement in electrical conductivity from ≈15 S cm−1 to ≈230 S cm−1 at 303 K. Whereafter, the effective donor dopant Nb is chosen to substitute Bi. The carrier concentration is increased without damaging the carrier mobility, resulting in a further improved electrical conductivity of ≈840 S cm−1 at 303 K. Lattice thermal conductivity is also suppressed owing to the intensive phonon scattering by point defects and grain boundaries. Ultimately, a record‐breaking peak ZT ≈0.5 (873 K) and average ZT ≈0.3 (303–873 K) can be achieved in Bi5.91Nb0.09Cu2Se3.6Cl0.4O6 + 0.5% rGO. The microstructure optimization method in this research effectively improves thermoelectric performance, and is anticipated to be applied in other thermoelectrics.
Rational Design of Organic Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen and Oxygen Electrocatalytic Applications
Authors: Cheng Ruiqi , He Xiaoqian , Li Kaiqi , Ran Biao , Zhang Xinlong , Qin Yonghong , He Guanjie , Li Huanxin , Fu Chaopeng
Published: March 2024

Efficient electrocatalysts are pivotal for advancing green energy conversion technologies. Organic electrocatalysts, as cost‐effective alternatives to noble‐metal benchmarks, have garnered attention. However, the understanding of the relationships between their properties and electrocatalytic activities remains ambiguous. Plenty of research articles regarding low‐cost organic electrocatalysts started to gain momentum in 2010 and have been flourishing recently though, a review article for both entry‐level and experienced researchers in this field is still lacking. This review underscores the urgent need to elucidate the structure–activity relationship and design suitable electrode structures, leveraging the unique features of organic electrocatalysts like controllability and compatibility for real‐world applications. Organic electrocatalysts are classified into four groups: small molecules, oligomers, polymers, and frameworks, with specific structural and physicochemical properties serving as activity indicators. To unlock the full potential of organic electrocatalysts, five strategies are discussed: integrated structures, surface property modulation, membrane technologies, electrolyte affinity regulation, and addition of anticorrosion species, all aimed at enhancing charge efficiency, mass transfer, and long‐term stability during electrocatalytic reactions. The review offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of organic electrocatalysts and their practical applications, bridging the understanding gap and paving the way for future developments of more efficient green energy conversion technologies.
Deep Learning‐Driven Exploration of Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Neuroprotective Activity in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Li Xinuo , Sun Yuan , Zhou Zheng , Li Jinran , Liu Sai , Chen Long , Shi Yiting , Wang Min , Zhu Zheying , Wang Guangji , Lu Qiulun
Published: March 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a pressing concern in neurodegenerative research. To address the challenges in AD drug development, especially those targeting Aβ, this study uses deep learning and a pharmacological approach to elucidate the potential of pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) as a neuroprotective agent for AD. Using deep learning for a comprehensive molecular dataset, blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability is predicted and the anti‐inflammatory and antioxidative properties of compounds are evaluated. PQQ, identified in the Mediterranean‐DASH intervention for a diet that delays neurodegeneration, shows notable BBB permeability and low toxicity. In vivo tests conducted on an Aβ₁₋₄₂‐induced AD mouse model verify the effectiveness of PQQ in reducing cognitive deficits. PQQ modulates genes vital for synapse and anti‐neuronal death, reduces reactive oxygen species production, and influences the SIRT1 and CREB pathways, suggesting key molecular mechanisms underlying its neuroprotective effects. This study can serve as a basis for future studies on integrating deep learning with pharmacological research and drug discovery.
Modulating Pt‐N/O Bonds on Co‐doped WO3 for Acid Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution with Over 2000 h Operation
Authors: Chen Hengyi , Yu Jidong , Liu Lijia , Gao Rui‐Ting , Gao Zehua , Yang Yang , Chen Zhiqiang , Zhan Sibo , Liu Xianhu , Zhang Xueyuan , Dong Hongliang , Wu Limin , Wang Lei
Published: March 2024

Developing durable electrocatalysts with high performance for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in acid conditions is of prime challenge for hydrogen production. Durability is of important prerequisite for catalyst application. Herein, this work constructs the Co‐doped WO3 loaded with Pt nanoparticles under ammonia treatment (Pt/N‐CoWO3) with the Pt‐N/O‐W interaction, which shows excellent activity and stability for acidic hydrogen production at industrial current density. The electronic structure of Pt species is modulated with enhanced Pt‐N/O bonding by Co doping, hence reinforcing the metal‐support interaction, and greatly enhancing the stability of the catalyst under high current density in acidic media. The resultant Pt/N‐CoWO3 catalyst exhibits the overpotentials of only 94 and 108 mV at high current densities of 1 and 2 A cm−2, respectively. More impressively, Pt/N‐CoWO3 delivers a record operation for acid electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution over 2000 h at 1 A cm−2, denoting its potential for catalyst applications at the industrial current density. This work opens a new avenue for developing Pt‐loading acidic HER catalysts for long‐term operation at ampere‐level current densities in acid conditions.
A Study on the Effect of Belly‐Dragging Locomotion on a Robot that Mimics a Heavy Reptile
Authors: Lim Seunghyun , Song Jinhyeok , Yun Dongwon
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the effect of tortoise‐inspired locomotion on enhancing energy efficiency in legged robots. Tortoises, known for their high locomotion efficiency, provide a unique model for robot and gait design, where their specific gait and posture significantly contribute to energy efficiency. This study hypothesizes that the gait and belly‐dragging posture of tortoises can improve the energy efficiency of robots. To test this hypothesis, a quadruped robot mimicking these tortoise characteristics is developed, utilizing the cost of transport (CoT) as a measure of energy efficiency. Dynamic simulations and real‐world experiments are conducted, varying parameters like robot size, mass, friction coefficient, and Froude number, to validate the generality of the findings. The results indicate that both belly dragging, a postural characteristic of tortoises, and their diagonal gait significantly lower the robot's CoT. This suggests that the energy‐efficient locomotion of tortoises, specifically the diagonal gait with belly dragging, is transferable to robotic platforms to enhance energy efficiency. The tortoise‐inspired robot design offers significant potential in applications such as search and rescue operations, space exploration, and payload transportation. Furthermore, the tortoise‐inspired locomotion strategy can be effectively integrated with other research focusing on energy efficiency improvements through mechanical structures or control strategies.
Generating Frequency Selective Vibrations in Remote Moving Magnets
Authors: Masiero Federico , La Frazia Eliana , Ianniciello Valerio , Cipriani Christian
Published: March 2024

Extensive efforts in providing upper limb amputees with sensory feedback have primarily focused on the restoration of tactile capabilities, while challenges in evoking proprioceptive sensations have been poorly addressed. Previously, an human–machine interface (HMI) was proposed based on permanent magnets implanted in residual muscles of an amputee, namely the myokinetic interface, to control robotic limb prostheses. Besides control, implanted magnets offer an unprecedent opportunity to trigger musculotendon proprioceptors via untethered selective vibrations. Herein, the challenge of tracking multiple moving magnets is addressed (e.g., following muscle contractions) while being vibrated by controlled magnetic fields produced by external coils. Results demonstrate the viability of a real‐time (RT) system capable of simultaneously tracking and vibrating multiple moving magnets within a three‐dimensional workspace. Highly selective torsional vibrations in the frequency span eliciting movement illusions (70, 80, and 90 Hz) are achieved on two moving magnets, with efficiencies above 0.82 (over 80% of spectral power at the desired frequency). Tracking accuracy and precision remain robust to the coil magnetic field, with position median errors below 1.2 mm and median displacement errors below 0.95 mm. This study represents a crucial step towards the development of a bench system to study proprioception in humans.
An Enzymatic Carbon‐Carbon Bond Cleavage and Aldol Reaction Cascade Converts an Angular Scaffold into the Linear Tetracyclic Core of Ochraceopones
Authors: Li Yanqin , Cong Mengjing , Wang Wengui , Zhang Xiufeng , Zhu Yiguang , Song Yongxiang , Zhang Wenjun , Xiao Hua , Liu Yonghong , Zhang Changsheng , Wang Junfeng , Yan Yan
Published: March 2024

Meroterpenoids of the ochraceopones family featuring a linear tetracyclic scaffold exhibit exceptional antiviral and anti‐inflammatory activities. The biosynthetic pathway and chemical logic to generate this linear tetracycle, however, remain unknown. In this study, we identified and characterized all biosynthetic enzymes to afford ochraceopones and elucidated the complete biosynthetic pathway. We demonstrated that the linear tetracyclic scaffold of ochraceopones was derived from an angular tetracyclic precursor. A multifunctional cytochrome P450 OchH was validated to catalyze the free‐radical‐initiated carbon‐carbon bond cleavage of the angular tetracycle. Then, a new carbon‐carbon bond was verified to be constructed using a new aldolase OchL, which catalyzes an intramolecular aldol reaction to form the linear tetracycle. This carbon‐carbon bond fragmentation and aldol reaction cascade features an unprecedented strategy for converting a common angular tetracycle to a distinctive linear tetracyclic scaffold in meroterpenoid biosynthesis.
Zinc oxide‐cadmium(II) sulfide heterostructure as a potential photocatalyst for preparing substituted chromenes and its anti‐liver cancer activity
Authors: Huang Guangjun , Jalili Zahra , Tayebee Reza , Shi Zhaozhang , Zhang Xianxin , Liu Liqing , Wang Longgang , Sun Dong , Sun Xu , Liu Luguang , Zhao Weizhu , Liu Bing
Published: March 2024

There are ongoing studies on the potential use of chromene derivatives in liver cancer therapy. They have shown promising results in preclinical studies for liver cancer, including inhibiting tumor growth and inducing apoptosis. Herein, the nanosized hybrid material zinc oxide (ZnO)–cadmium sulfide (CdS) is prepared using a green and ecofriendly procedure. The nanomaterial was characterized by FE‐SEM, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray, DRS, X‐ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The photocatalytic proficiency of ZnO–CdS was then scrutinized in the fabrication of some 4H‐chromenes in a mild condition. The outcomes of this study revealed that the nanophotocatalyst has high photocatalytic reactivity and acceptable reusability in the desired condensation reaction. Furthermore, a preliminary in vitro cellular toxicity assay was performed on ZnO–CdS nanoparticles using HepG2 cancer cell line through MTT assay.
Ethylene trimerization using half‐sandwich titanium‐based catalysts supported on mesoporous silica modified with ionic liquids
Authors: Gharajedaghi Sajjad , Mohamadnia Zahra , Marefat Mohamadreza , Habibi Younes , Ahmadi Ebrahim , Zakavi Saeed
Published: March 2024

Linear alpha olefins (LAOs) are produced industrially via ethylene oligomerization using catalytic methods. The cost‐effective separation process has sparked significant interest in the selective oligomerization of ethylene to produce alpha‐olefins, including 1‐hexene (1‐C6), in multi‐product commercial processes. In addition, the utilization of immobilized catalysts is crucial because of their reduced environmental impact, ease of catalyst separation, recyclability, and transportability. Furthermore, the use of immobilized catalysts simplifies the purification process, making it easier to isolate pure products. In the present study, mesoporous silica (MS) was first modified with ionic liquids (ILs) consisting BF4− and Br− counter‐anions to prepare IL‐BF4@MS and IL‐Br@MS, respectively. Then 12 catalysts were synthesized through immobilization of the half‐sandwich catalysts with different bridges on the surface of MS, IL‐Br@MS, and IL‐BF4@MS and characterized by BET, TGA, and SEM–EDX‐Mapping analyses. UV–Visible spectroscopy showed a tetrahedral structure for the synthesized complexes. The activity and selectivity of the catalysts for the production of 1‐hexene were studied under specific conditions, including an ethylene pressure of 8 bar, a temperature of 40 °C, and an Al/Ti ratio of 1:2000. The C1‐IL‐BF4@MS immobilized catalyst with cyclohexane middle bridge immobilized on MS modified with IL‐BF4 revealed the highest activity (1199 kg 1‐C6 molTi−1·h−1) at a catalyst concentration of 1.5 μmol. The lowest activity (138 kg 1‐C molTi−1·h−1) was obtained for both C3@MS and C4@MS catalysts.
Design of unknown input integral sliding‐mode discrete observer for linear systems
Authors: Shah Khushboo , Satyanarayana Neeli
Published: March 2024

This paper considers the problem of the observer design to estimate the state and reconstruct the unknown inputs for linear discrete‐time systems in the presence of uncertainties. By appropriate use of system transformation and the integral term in the sliding‐surface design, we propose a novel output injection term in its structure to achieve convergence of the sliding‐manifold. The dimension of the designed observer is independent of the number of additive uncertainties in the model of the plant. A numerical simulation demonstrates the design procedure and compares the proposed observer with the standard proportional integral observer (PIO) design.
Why is end‐of‐life inpatient cost high among cancer patients? A prospective cohort study
Authors: Balasubramanian Ishwarya , Malhotra Chetna ,   the COMPASS study group
Published: March 2024

Background

Inpatient cost for cancer patients is high during the last year of life, but reasons for this are not understood. We aim to understand the type of hospital admissions and inpatient services associated with an increase in inpatient cost in last year of life.

Methods

We used survey and billing records of 439 deceased patients with a solid metastatic cancer, enrolled in a prospective cohort study. Based on cost per day of inpatient admissions, we classified admissions as low‐ or high‐intensity. We decomposed the inpatient cost into cost for different inpatient services. We examined the inpatient cost in the last year of life. We also assessed patient characteristics associated with higher inpatient cost in the next 3 months.

Results

Towards death, proportion of inpatient cost for “maintenance care” increased while that for intensive care unit (ICU) and surgeries decreased. Low‐intensity, compared to high‐intensity admissions had a higher proportion of cost for “maintenance care” and a lower proportion for surgeries and ICU. Number of low‐intensity admissions increased more steeply towards death than high‐intensity admissions. Both admission types contributed equally to the share of inpatient cost. Older patients were less likely to have a high‐intensity admission (β:‐0.01, CI: −0.02, 0.00). Greater preference for life extension (β: 0.06, CI: 0.01, 0.11) and inaccurate prognostic belief were associated with higher cost of high‐intensity admissions (β: 0.32, CI: 0.03, 0.62).

Conclusions

Findings suggest that inpatient costs in last year of life may be reduced if maintenance care is availed in low‐cost settings such as hospice/palliative care alongside steps to reduce non‐beneficial surgeries and ICU admissions.
Clinical utility of the Oncomine Dx Target Testmulti‐CDxsystem and the possibility of utilizing those original sequence data
Authors: Saito Ayaka , Terai Hideki , Kim Tae‐Jung , Emoto Katsura , Kawano Ryutaro , Nakamura Kohei , Hayashi Hideyuki , Takaoka Hatsuyo , Ogata Akihiko , Kinoshita Katsuhito , Ito Fumimaro , Shigematsu Lisa , Okada Masahiko , Fukushima Takahiro , Mitsuishi Akifumi , Shinozaki Taro , Ohgino Keiko , Ikemura Shinnosuke , Yasuda Hiroyuki , Kawada Ichiro , Soejima Kenzo , Nishihara Hiroshi , Fukunaga Koichi
Published: March 2024

Background

Companion diagnostic tests play a crucial role in guiding treatment decisions for patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The Oncomine Dx Target Test (ODxTT) Multi‐CDx System has emerged as a prominent companion diagnostic method. However, its efficacy in detecting driver gene mutations, particularly rare mutations, warrants investigation.

Aims

This study aimed to assess the performance of the ODxTT in detecting driver gene mutations in NSCLC patients. Specifically, we aimed to evaluate its sensitivity in detecting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations, a key determinant of treatment selection in NSCLC.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of NSCLC patients who underwent testing with the ODxTT at Keio University Hospital between May 2020 and March 2022. Patient samples were subjected to both DNA and RNA tests. Driver gene mutation status was assessed, and instances of missed mutations were meticulously examined.

Results

Of the 90 patients, five had nucleic acid quality problems, while 85 underwent both DNA and RNA tests. Driver gene mutations were detected in 56/90 (62.2%) patients. Of the 34 patient specimens, driver mutations were not detected using the ODxTT; however, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations were detected using polymerase chain reaction‐based testing in two patients, and aKRASmutation was detected by careful examination of the sequence data obtained using the ODxTT in one patient. For the above three cases, carefully examining the gene sequence information obtained using the ODxTT could identify driver mutations that were not mentioned in the returned test results. Additionally, we confirmed comparable instances of overlook results forEGFRmutations in the dataset from South Korea, implying that this type of oversight could occur in other countries using the ODxTT.EGFRmutation was missed in ODxTT in Japan (6.3%, 2/32), South Korea (2.0%, 1/49), and overall (3.7%, 3/81).

Conclusion

Even if sufficient tumor samples are obtained, rareEGFRmutations (which are excluded from the ODxTT's genetic mutation list) might not be detected using the current ODxTT system due to the program used for sequence analysis. However, such rareEGFRmutations can still be accurately detected on ODxTT's sequence data using next‐generation sequencing.