bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disentangling the Activity‐Stability Trade‐Off of Pyrrolic N‐Coordinated Fe─N4 Catalytic Sites for Long‐Life Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Acidic Medium
Authors: Xue Dongping , Zhao Shuyan , Lu Bang‐An , Yu Yue , Wei Yifan , Yin Hengbo , Hu Jin‐Song , Zhang Jianan
Published: January 2024

Fe─N─C materials with Fe─N4 sites are considered as most promising non‐precious metal‐based electrocatalysts for low‐cost proton‐exchange‐membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Breaking the trade‐off between activity and stability has been a long‐standing challenge in the field of acidic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Herein, a “top‐down” thermally‐driven strategy is developed to achieve highly active pyrrolic N‐coordinated Fe sites in a high spin state with Fe atomic cluster (Fen@Fe─Npyrr─C) and discover that the neighboring Fen cluster can synergistically stabilize such vulnerable Fe─N4 sites by inhibiting their protonation. Consequently, the Fen@Fe─Npyrr─C catalysts exhibit much enhanced ORR activity and stability, endowing PEMFCs with a high power density of 804.6 mW cm−2 (testing conditions: 80 °C, 100% RH, 2.0 bar) and over 100 h durability (at 0.5 V). These findings open up opportunities for the exploration of durable Fe─N─C ORR electrocatalysts for non‐precious metal‐based PEMFCs and other applications.
Covid‐19 and agricultural labor supply: Evidence from the rural–urban interface of an Indian mega‐city
Authors: Preusse Verena , Silva Manuel Santos , Steinhübel Linda , Wollni Meike
Published: January 2024

This paper examines how India's national lockdown (March 25–May 31, 2020), in response to the spread of Covid‐19, affected the on‐farm family labor supply of 351 farm households in the rural–urban interface of Bangalore. We combine face‐to‐face survey data collected just before the start of the lockdown with phone survey data collected during the last 2 weeks of the lockdown. We find that 66% of farm households reduced their daily on‐farm family labor supply during the lockdown, by on average almost 40% compared with prelockdown levels. Changes in on‐farm family labor supply differed by key pre‐Covid‐19 household characteristics. Farm households that were engaged in crop marketing decreased their on‐farm family labor supply by an average of 3–4 h/day. In turn, farm households that relied on off‐farm income increased their on‐farm family labor supply by on average 3–4 h/day [EconLit Citations: J22, J43, Q12, Q13, Q54].
Guidewire Endpoint Detection Based on Pixel‐Adjacent Relation during Robot‐Assisted Intravascular Catheterization: In Vivo Mammalian Models
Authors: Du Wenjing , Yi Guanlin , Omisore Olatunji Mumini , Duan Wenke , Chen Xingyu , Akinyemi Toluwanimi , Liu Jiang , Lee Boon‐Giin , Wang Lei
Published: January 2024

Existing surgical guidewire endpoint localization methods in X‐ray images face challenges owing to their small size, simple appearance, nonrigid nature of objects, low signal‐to‐noise ratio of X‐ray images, and imbalance between the number of guidewire and background pixels, which lead to errors in surgical navigation. An eight‐neighborhood‐based method for increasing the localization accuracy of guidewire endpoint to improve the safety of interventional procedures is proposed herein. The proposed method includes two stages: 1) An improved U‐Net network is employed for segmenting the data of the guidewire to extract regions of interest containing guidewire endpoints with higher precision and to reduce interference from other anatomical structures and imaging artifacts. 2) The proposed method detects guidewire endpoints using the adjacent relationship between pixels in the eight‐neighborhood regions. This stage covers skeletonization extraction, removal of bifurcation points, and repair of fracture points. This study achieves mean pixel errors of 2.02 and 2.13 pixels in an in vivo rabbit and porcine X‐ray fluoroscopy images, outperforming ten classic heatmap and regression methods, achieving state‐of‐the‐art detection results. The proposed method can also be applied to detect other tiny surgical instruments such as stents and balloons, while preserving the flexibility of the guidewire bending angle.
Genetic risk score for Alzheimer's disease predicts brain volume differences in mid and late life in UK biobank participants
Authors: Buto Peter T. , Wang Jingxuan , La Joie Renaud , Zimmerman Scott C. , Glymour M. Maria , Ackley Sarah F. , Hoffmann Thomas J. , Yaffe Kristine , Zeki Al Hazzouri Adina , Brenowitz Willa D.
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION

We estimated the ages when associations between Alzheimer's disease (AD) genes and brain volumes begin among middle‐aged and older adults.

METHODS

Among 45,616 dementia‐free participants aged 45–80, linear regressions tested whether genetic risk score for AD (AD‐GRS) had age‐dependent associations with 38 regional brain magnetic resonance imaging volumes. Models were adjusted for sex, assessment center, genetic ancestry, and intracranial volume.

RESULTS

AD‐GRS modified the estimated effect of age (per decade) on the amygdala (−0.41 mm3 [−0.42, −0.40]); hippocampus (−0.45 mm3 [−0.45, −0.44]), nucleus accumbens (−0.55 mm3 [−0.56, −0.54]), thalamus (−0.38 mm3 [−0.39, −0.37]), and medial orbitofrontal cortex (−0.23 mm3 [−0.24, −0.22]). Trends began by age 45 for the nucleus accumbens and thalamus, 48 for the hippocampus, 51 for the amygdala, and 53 for the medial orbitofrontal cortex. An AD‐GRS excluding apolipoprotein E (APOE) was additionally associated with entorhinal and middle temporal cortices.

DISCUSSION

APOE and other genes that increase AD risk predict lower hippocampal and other brain volumes by middle age.
A blood‐based multi‐pathway biomarker assay for early detection and staging of Alzheimer's disease across ethnic groups
Authors: Jiang Yuanbing , Uhm Hyebin , Ip Fanny C. , Ouyang Li , Lo Ronnie M. N. , Cheng Elaine Y. L. , Cao Xiaoyun , Tan Clara M. C. , Law Brian C. H. , Ortiz‐Romero Paula , Puig‐Pijoan Albert , Fernández‐Lebrero Aida , Contador José , Mok Kin Y. , Hardy John , Kwok Timothy C. Y. , Mok Vincent C. T. , Suárez‐Calvet Marc , Zetterberg Henrik , Fu Amy K. Y. , Ip Nancy Y.
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION

Existing blood‐based biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease (AD) mainly focus on its pathological features. However, studies on blood‐based biomarkers associated with other biological processes for a comprehensive evaluation of AD status are limited.

METHODS

We developed a blood‐based, multiplex biomarker assay for AD that measures the levels of 21 proteins involved in multiple biological pathways. We evaluated the assay's performance for classifying AD and indicating AD‐related endophenotypes in three independent cohorts from Chinese or European‐descent populations.

RESULTS

The 21‐protein assay accurately classified AD (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] = 0.9407 to 0.9867) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI; AUC = 0.8434 to 0.8945) while also indicating brain amyloid pathology. Moreover, the assay simultaneously evaluated the changes of five biological processes in individuals and revealed the ethnic‐specific dysregulations of biological processes upon AD progression.

DISCUSSION

This study demonstrated the utility of a blood‐based, multi‐pathway biomarker assay for early screening and staging of AD, providing insights for patient stratification and precision medicine.

Highlights

The authors developed a blood‐based biomarker assay for Alzheimer's disease.

The 21‐protein assay classifies AD/MCI and indicates brain amyloid pathology.

The 21‐protein assay can simultaneously assess activities of five biological processes.

Ethnic‐specific dysregulations of biological processes in AD were revealed.
Polymer‐Protein Assemblies with Tunable Vesicular and Hierarchical Nanostructures
Authors: Ren Yingying , Guan Shanyue , Qu Xiaozhong
Published: January 2024

The construction of variable structured multi‐protein nano‐assemblies is of great interest for the development of protein‐based therapeutic systems. This study showcases the synthesis of polymer‐protein assemblies with tunable structure like single‐ and multi‐layer polymer‐crosslinked protein vesicles, Janus protein vesicles and other hierarchical‐structured assemblies by utilizing a dynamic template‐assistant intermittent‐assembly approach. The generalization of the methodology helps the protein assemblies to gain notable functional complexity. And we demonstrate compelling evidence highlighting the substantial impact of the topological morphology of protein nanoaggregates on their cellular uptake capacity.
Electrochemical Hydrophobic Tri‐layer Interface Rendered Mechanically Graded Solid Electrolyte Interface for Stable Zinc Metal Anode
Authors: Liu Chaozheng , Xu Wangwang , Zhang Lei , Zhang Daotong , Xu Weina , Liao Xiaobin , Chen Weimin , Cao Yizhong , Li Mei‐Chun , Mei Changtong , Zhao Kangning
Published: January 2024

The aqueous zinc‐ion battery is promising as grid scale energy storage device, but hindered by the instable electrode/electrolyte interface. Herein, we report the lean‐water ionic liquid electrolyte for aqueous zinc metal batteries. The lean‐water ionic liquid electrolyte creates the hydrophobic tri‐layer interface assembled by first two layers of hydrophobic OTF− and EMIM+ and third layer of loosely attached water, beyond the classical Gouy–Chapman–Stern theory based electrochemical double layer. By taking advantage of the hydrophobic tri‐layer interface, the lean‐water ionic liquid electrolyte enables a wide electrochemical working window (2.93 V) with relatively high zinc ion conductivity (17.3 mS/cm). Furthermore, the anion crowding interface facilitates the OTF− decomposition chemistry to create the mechanically graded solid electrolyte interface layer to simultaneously suppress the dendrite formation and maintain the mechanical stability. In this way, the lean‐water based ionic liquid electrolyte realizes the ultralong cyclability of over 10000 cycles at 20 A/g and at practical condition of N/P ratio of 1.5, the cumulated areal capacity reach 1.8 Ah/cm2, which outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art zinc metal battery performance. Our work highlights the importance of the stable electrode/electrolyte interface stability, which would be practical for building high energy grid scale zinc‐ion battery.
Ionic Liquid‐Mediated Dynamic Polymerization for Facile Aqueous‐Phase Synthesis of Enzyme‐Covalent Organic Framework Biocatalysts
Authors: Gao Rui , Kou Xiaoxue , Tong Linjing , Li Zhi‐Wei , Shen Yujian , He Rongwei , Guo Lihong , Wang Hao , Ma Xiaomin , Huang Siming , Chen Guosheng , Ouyang Gangfeng
Published: January 2024

Utilizing covalent organic framework (COF) as a hypotoxic and porous scaffold to encapsulate enzyme (enzyme@COF) has inspired numerous interests at the intersection of chemistry, materials, and biological science. In this study, we report a convenient scheme for one‐step, aqueous‐phase synthesis of highly crystalline enzyme@COF biocatalysts. This facile approach relies on an ionic liquid (2 μL of imidazolium ionic liquid)‐mediated dynamic polymerization mechanism, which can facilitate the in situ assembly of enzyme@COF under mild conditions. This green strategy is adaptive to synthesize different biocatalysts with highly crystalline COF “exoskeleton”, as well evidenced by the low‐dose cryo‐EM and other characterizations. Attributing to the rigorous sieving effect of crystalline COF pore, the hosted lipase shows non‐native selectivity for aliphatic acid hydrolysis. In addition, the highly crystalline linkage affords COF “exoskeleton” with higher photocatalytic activity for in situ production of H2O2, enabling us to construct a self‐cascading photo‐enzyme coupled reactor for pollutants degradation, with a 2.63‐fold degradation rate as the poorly crystalline photo‐enzyme reactor. This work showcases the great potentials of employing green and trace amounts of ionic liquid for one‐step synthesis of crystalline enzyme@COF biocatalysts, and emphasizes the feasibility of diversifying enzyme functions by integrating the reticular chemistry of a COF.
Enhanced TROSY Effect in [2‐19F, 2‐13C] Adenosine and ATP Analogs Facilitates NMR Spectroscopy of Very Large Biological RNAs in Solution
Authors: Juen Fabian , Glänzer David , Plangger Raphael , Kugler Valentina , Fleischmann Jakob , Stefan Eduard , Case David A. , Kovacs Helena , Kwaku Dayie Theodore , Kreutz Christoph
Published: January 2024

Large RNAs are central to cellular functions, but characterizing such RNAs remains challenging by solution NMR. We present two labeling technologies based on [2‐19F, 2‐13C]‐adenosine, which allow the incorporation of aromatic 19F‐13C spin pairs. The labels when coupled with the transverse relaxation optimized spectroscopy (TROSY) enable us to probe RNAs comprising up to 124 nucleotides. With our new [2‐19F, 2‐13C]‐adenosine‐phosphoramidite, all resonances of the human hepatitis B virus epsilon RNA could be readily assigned. With [2‐19F, 2‐13C]‐adenosine triphosphate, the 124 nt pre‐miR‐17‐NPSL1‐RNA was produced via in vitro transcription and the TROSY spectrum of this 40 kDa [2‐19F, 2‐13C]‐A‐labeled RNA featured sharper resonances than the [2‐1H, 2‐13C]‐A sample. The mutual cancelation of the chemical‐shift‐anisotropy and the dipole‐dipole‐components of TROSY‐resonances leads to narrow linewidths over a wide range of molecular weights. With the synthesis of a non‐hydrolysable [2‐19F, 2‐13C]‐adenosine‐triphosphate, we facilitate the probing of co‐factor binding in kinase complexes and NMR‐based inhibitor binding studies in such systems. Our labels allow a straightforward assignment for larger RNAs via a divide‐and‐conquer/mutational approach. The new [2‐19F, 2‐13C]‐adenosine precursors are a valuable addition to the RNA NMR toolbox and will allow the study of large RNAs/RNA protein complexes in vitro and in cells.
The Influence of Donor/Acceptor Interfaces on Organic Solar Cells Efficiency and Stability Revealed through Theoretical Calculations and Morphology Characterizations
Authors: Shi Jingyu , Sun Kexuan , Chen Zhenyu , Qiu Yi , Liu Hui , Ma Wei , Liu Quan , Ge Ziyi
Published: January 2024

End‐groups halogenation strategies, generally refers to fluorination and chlorination, have been confirmed as simple and efficient methods to regulate the photoelectric performance of non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs), but a controversy over which one is better has existed for a long time. Here, two novel NFAs, C9N3‐4F and C9N3‐4Cl, featured with different end‐groups were successfully synthesized and blended with two renowned donors, D18 and PM6, featured with different electron‐withdrawing units. Detailed theoretical calculations and morphology characterizations of the interface structures indicate NFAs based on different end‐groups possess different binding energy and miscibility with donors, which shows an obvious influence on phase‐separation morphology, charge transport behavior and device performance. After verified by other three pairs of reported NFAs, a universal conclusion obtained as the devices based on D18 with fluorination‐end‐groups‐based NFAs and PM6 with chlorination‐end‐groups‐based NFAs generally show excellent efficiencies, high fill factors and stability. Finally, the devices based on D18: C9N3‐4F and PM6: C9N3‐4Cl yield outstanding efficiency of 18.53 % and 18.00 %, respectively. Suitably selecting donor and regulating donor/acceptor interface can accurately present the photoelectric conversion ability of a novel NFAs, which points out the way for further molecular design and selection for high‐performance and stable organic solar cells.
Mixed matrix membranes of polydimethylsiloxane with activated carbon for ABE separation
Authors: Gonçalves Bruno José Arcanjo , de Souza Figueiredo Kátia Cecília
Published: January 2024

The demand for the large‐scale biofuels production is very high. The use of ethanol and butanol in flex‐fuel vehicles have already been achieved, but still need improvement to decrease the gasoline‐dependence. In addition to it, the preparation of ethanol and butanol by eco‐friendly routes are still a challenge. The use of ABE route, in which acetone, butanol, and ethanol are prepared by fermentation of 5 or 6 carbon sugars, requires higher yields and better separation performance. The goal of this work was to evaluate the use of pervaporation through asymmetric activated carbon (AC) dispersed polymethylsiloxane membranes for the separation of ABE aqueous solution with 1 wt% total organics. The amount of the filler was varied from 0 to 3 wt%. Membranes were characterized by scanning electronic microscopy, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, swelling in solvents, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. Membrane with 1 wt% of AC membrane showed different behaviors both in thermal resistance, which was increased, and also in pervaporation separation index (PSI). In this condition, membrane total flux, separation factor, and PSI for ethanol were 13.2, 2.6, and 19.9 g m−2 h−1, so that sorption behavior and diffusion rates were changed. Thus, it was possible to modulate membrane properties.
Seeing through a robot's eyes: A cross‐sectional exploratory study in developing a robotic screening technology for autism
Authors: So Wing‐Chee , Wong Elsa , Ng Wingo , Fuego John , Lay Sally , So Ming‐Ting , Lee Yuen‐Yung , Chan Wai‐Yan , Chua Lok‐Ying , Lam Hiu‐Lok , Lam Wing‐Tung , Li Hin‐Miu , Leung Wing‐To , Ng Yu‐Hei , Wong Wing‐Ting
Published: January 2024

The present exploratory cross‐sectional case–control study sought to develop a reliable and scalable screening tool for autism using a social robot. The robot HUMANE, installed with computer vision and linked with recognition technology, detected the direction of eye gaze of children. Children aged 3–8 (M = 5.52;N = 199) participated, 87 of whom had been confirmed with autism, 55 of whom were suspected to have autism, and 57 of whom were not considered to cause any concern for having autism. Before a session, a human experimenter instructed HUMANE to narrate a story to a child. HUMANE prompted the child to return his/her eye gaze to the robot if the child looked away, and praised the child when it re‐established its eye gaze quickly after a prompt. The reliability of eye gaze detection was checked across all pairs of human raters and HUMANE and reached 0.90, indicating excellent interrater agreement. Using the pre‐specified reference standard (Autism Spectrum Quotient), the sensitivity and specificity of the index tests (i.e., the number of robot prompts and duration of inattentiveness) reached 0.88 or above and the Diagnostic Odds Ratios were beyond 190. These results show that social robots may detect atypical eye patterns, suggesting a potential future for screening autism using social robots.
Intellectual development in young children with autism spectrum disorders: A longitudinal study
Authors: Peristeri Eleni , Andreou Maria
Published: January 2024

Intelligence profiles in autism have been characterized by great variability. The questions of how autistic children's intelligence changes over time, and what factors influence these changes deserve study as part of efforts to document child autism profiles, but also because the relationship between intellectual functioning and children's background characteristics is poorly understood, particularly in a longitudinal context. A total of 39 autistic children and 39 age‐matched neurotypical children (5–9 years old) completed two IQ assessments at preschool age and up to 4 years later. Repeated‐measures analyses assessed longitudinal changes in the children's verbal (VIQ), performance (PIQ), and full‐scale IQ (FSIQ) at group level. We further sought to identify clusters with distinct profiles in each group by adopting an unsupervised K‐means clustering approach, and detect possible between‐subgroup differences in terms of children's socioeconomic status and autism severity. The largest cluster in the autistic group was composed of children whose PIQ significantly dropped at follow‐up, while the second largest cluster improved in all quotients; the smallest cluster, wherein children had more highly educated mothers than the rest of the clusters, was characterized by large improvement in VIQ. For the neurotypical children, there was a two‐cluster division; the majority of them improved in the three quotients, while very few dropped in PIQ at follow‐up. The relation between socioeconomic status and IQ changes was significant for both groups. The findings demonstrate both the complexity of intelligence changes in autism and the need to view this complexity through the lens of the children's socioeconomic diversity.
Delayed intestinal perforation associated with peritoneal dialysis: A case report of maintaining dialysis after perforation
Authors: Zhou Ru , Luo Minhong , Tang Hairong , Yang Tiecheng , Ma Hualin , Wang Zhen , Zhang Xinzhou , Guo Baochun
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

Delayed intestinal perforation has various manifestations. For peritonitis with delayed treatment and multi‐bacterial peritonitis, we should be alert to the occurrence of this rare complication. Abdominal CT examination and imaging results judgment based on clinical conditions are particularly important for diagnosis. Delayed intestinal perforation of peritoneal dialysis catheter is a rare but serious complication. We reported a 49‐year‐old patient who had been hospitalized twice within 3 months due to poor drainage of the peritoneal dialysis catheter. During the first hospitalization, peritoneal dialysis‐related peritonitis was diagnosed, and a variety of bacterial infections were cultivated. However, at that time, the actual peritoneal dialysis catheter‐related intestinal perforation was missed, and he was discharged after anti‐infection treatment until a clinical cure was met. After more than 2 months of normal peritoneal dialysis after returning home, the patient again had poor drainage of the peritoneal dialysis catheter, accompanied by the outflow of yellowish‐brown sediment. It was found that the peritoneal dialysis catheter had evidence of intestinal perforation. After the removal of the catheter and intestinal repair, he recovered and was discharged from the hospital and received long‐term hemodialysis treatment. In the case of delayed intestinal perforation, peritoneal dialysis was maintained normally for more than 2 months, which was an unprecedented situation in previous case reports. In addition, we should be alert to the occurrence of this rare complication, especially when we find the occurrence of polybacterial Peritonitis. Abdominal CT examination and imaging results judgment based on clinical conditions are particularly important for diagnosis.
{Ru(C6H6)}‐Decorating Heteropolymolybdate for Highly Activity Photocatalytic Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol to Benzaldehyde
Authors: Tang Wei , Liu Yanan , Jin Yuzhen , Shi Weixia , Sun Jialiang , Ma Pengtao , Niu Jingyang , Wang. Jingping
Published: January 2024

An unclassical structure of {Ru(C6H6)}‐based polyoxometalate, Cs6H4[Te2Mo12O46{Ru(C6H6)}] ⋅ 16.5H2O (1), has been successfully constructed from {Te2Mo12O46}‐type heteropolymolybdate and {Ru(C6H6)} group, which structure type was discovered for the first time. Compound 1 not only possesses strong light‐harvesting ability, but also exhibits high carrier separation efficiency and lower charge transfer resistance. Under visible light irradiation, compound 1 displayed excellent catalytic activity and circularity in the conversion of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde (yield=94 %; turnover number=500; turnover frequency=20.8 h−1). Finally, the electron paramagnetic resonance measurement and energy level matching analysis provide theoretical basis for the derivation of the reaction mechanism.
Hydroxytrifluoroethylation and Trifluoroacetylation Reactions via SET Processes
Authors: Gallego‐Gamo Albert , Pleixats Roser , Gimbert‐Suriñach Carolina , Vallribera Adelina , Granados Albert
Published: January 2024

Hydroxytrifluoroethyl and trifluoroacetyl groups are of utmost importance in biologically active compounds, but methods to tether these motifs to organic architectures have been limited. Typically, the preparation of these compounds relied on the use of strong bases or multistep routes. The renaissance of radical chemistry in photocatalytic, transition metal mediated, and hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) processes have allowed the installation of these medicinally relevant fluorinated motifs. This review provides an overview of the methods available for the direct synthesis of hydroxytrifluoroethyl‐ and trifluoroacetyl‐derived compounds governed by single‐electron transfer processes.
Insights into the Mechanism of Neptunium Oxidation to the Heptavalent State
Authors: Kravchuk Dmytro V. , Augustine Logan J. , Rajapaksha Harindu , Benthin Grant C. , Batista Enrique R. , Yang Ping , Forbes Tori Z.
Published: January 2024

Neptunium can exist in multiple oxidation states, including the rare and poorly understood heptavalent form. In this work, we monitored the formation of heptavalent neptunium [Np(VII)O4(OH)2]3− during ozonolysis of aqueous MOH (M=Li, Na, K) solutions using a combined experimental and theoretical approach. All experimental reactions were closely monitored via absorption and vibrational spectroscopy to follow both the oxidation state and the speciation of neptunium guided by the calculated vibrational frequencies for various neptunium species. The mechanism of the reaction partly involves oxidative dissolution of transient Np(VI) oxide/hydroxide solid phases, the identity of which are dependent on the co‐precipitating counter‐cation Li+/Na+/K+. Additional calculations suggest that the most favorable energetic pathway occurs through the reaction of a [Np(V)O2(OH)4]3− with the hydroxide radical to form [Np(VI)O2(OH)4]2−, followed by an additional oxidation with HO⋅ to create [Np(VII)O4(OH)2]3−.
Type‐I Photodynamic Therapy Induced by Pt‐Coordination of Type‐II Photosensitizers into Supramolecular Complexes
Authors: Fan Xiaoxue , Lv Shibo , Lv Fangyuan , Feng Erting , Liu Dapeng , Zhou Panwang , Song Fengling
Published: January 2024

Platinum supramolecular complexes based on photosensitizers have garnered great interest in photodynamic therapy (PDT) due to Pt (II) centers as chemotherapeutic agents to eliminate tumor cells completely, which greatly improve the antitumor efficacy of PDT. However, in comparison to precursor photosensitizer ligand, the formed platinum supramolecular complexes typically exhibit inferior outcomes in terms of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. How to boost ROS generation in the formed platinum supramolecular complexes for enhanced PDT is an enticing yet highly challenging task. Here we report a Pt‐coordination‐based dimeric photosensitizer complex (Cz−BTZ−Py)2Pt(OTf)2. It is found that comparing with photosensitizer ligand Cz−BTZ−Py, the formed supramolecular complex exhibit redshifts of absorption wavelength as well as enhanced ROS generation efficiency. Moreover, type‐I ROS generation (O2⋅−) is produced in the formed platinum supramolecular complexes mainly due to a reduced energy gap ΔEST resulting from exciton coupling between two photosensitizer ligands. And type‐I ROS (O2⋅−) generation significantly amplifies the photodynamic therapy (PDT) outcomes. In vitro evaluation shows excellent photochemotherapy performance of (Cz−BTZ−Py)2Pt(OTf)2 nanoparticles. We anticipate this work would provide a novel approach to design type‐I photosensitizers for efficient PDT.
Is it time for Heart–Brain clinics? A clinical survey and proposition to improve current care for cognitive problems in heart failure
Authors: Nijskens Charlotte M. , Thomas Elias G. , Rhodius‐Meester Hanneke F. M. , Daemen Mat J. A. P. , Biessels Geert Jan , Handoko M. Louis , Muller Majon
Published: January 2024

Background

Cognitive impairment is highly prevalent among patients with heart failure (HF). International guidelines on the management of HF recommend screening for cognitive impairment and tailored care for patients with cognitive impairment. However, practical guidance is lacking. In this study, we explore cardiologists' perspective on screening and care for cognitive impairment in patients with HF. We give an example of a multidisciplinary Heart–Brain care pathway that facilitates screening for cognitive impairment in patients with HF.

Methods

We distributed an online survey to cardiologists from the Dutch working groups on Geriatric Cardiology and Heart Failure. It covered questions about current clinical practice, impact of cognitive impairment on clinical decision‐making, and their knowledge and skills to recognize cognitive impairment.

Results

Thirty‐six out of 55 invited cardiologists responded. Only 3% performed structured cognitive screening, while 83% stated that not enough attention is paid to cognitive impairment. More than half of the cardiologists desired more training in recognizing cognitive impairment and three‐quarters indicated that knowing about cognitive impairment would change their treatment plan. Eighty percent agreed that systematic cognitive screening would benefit their patients and 74% wished to implement a Heart–Brain clinic. Time and expertise were addressed as the major barriers to screening for cognitive impairment.

Conclusion

Although cardiologists are aware of the clinical relevance of screening for cognitive impairment in cardiology patients, such clinical conduct is not yet commonly practiced due to lack of time and expertise. The Heart–Brain care pathway could facilitate this screening, thus improving personalized care in cardiology.
Plasmon induced hot carrier distribution in Ag20‐CO composite
Authors: Mokkath Junais Habeeb
Published: January 2024

The interaction between plasmons and the molecules leads to the transfer of plasmon‐induced hot carriers, presenting innovative opportunities for controlling chemical reactions on sub‐femtosecond timescales. Through real‐time time‐dependent density functional theory simulations, we have investigated the enhancement of the electric field due to plasmon excitation and the subsequent generation and transfer of plasmon‐induced hot carriers in a linear atomic chain of Ag20 and an Ag20‐CO composite system. By applying a Gaussian laser pulse tuned to align with the plasmon frequency, we observe a plasmon‐induced transfer of hot electrons from the occupied states of Ag to the unoccupied molecular orbitals of CO. Remarkably, there is a pronounced accumulation of hot electrons and hot holes on the C and O atoms. This phenomenon arises from the electron migration from the inter‐nuclear regions of the C−O bond towards the individual C and O atoms. The insights garnered from our study hold the potential to drive advancements in the development of more efficient systems for catalytic processes empowered by plasmonic interactions.
Selecting non‐metal doped FeS2 as efficient sulfur cathode host for enhanced Li−S redox chemistry
Authors: Wei Cheng‐Dong , Xue Hong‐Tao , Zhang Zhi‐Jun , Zhao Fen‐Ning , Tang Fu‐Ling
Published: January 2024

Lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs) are considered as the development direction of the new generation energy storage system due to their high energy density and low cost. The slow redox kinetics of sulfur and the shuttle effect of lithium polysulfide (LiPS) are considered to be the main obstacles to the practical application of LSBs. Transition‐metal sulfide as the cathode host can improve the Li−S redox chemistry. However, there has been no investigation of the application of FeS2 host in Li−S redox chemistry. Applying the first‐principles calculations, we investigated the formation energy, band gap, Li+ diffusion, adsorption energy, catalytic performance and Li2S decomposition barrier of FeAxS2−x (A=N, P, O, Se; x=0, 0.125, 0.25, 0.375) to explore the Li−S redox chemistry and finally select excellent host material. FeA0.25S1.75 (A=P, Se) has a low Li+ diffusion barrier and superior electronic conductivity. FeO0.25S1.75 is more favorable for LiPS adsorption, followed by FeP0.25S1.75. FeP0.25S1.75(001) shows a low overpotential for the Li−S redox chemistry. In summary, FeP0.25S1.75 has more application potential in LSBs due to its physical and chemical properties, followed by FeSe0.25S1.75. This work provides theoretical guidance for the design and selection of the sulfur cathode host materials in LSBs.
Clinical usefulness of image‐enhanced endoscopy for the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis‐associated neoplasia
Authors: Takabayashi Kaoru , Kato Motohiko , Kanai Takanori
Published: January 2024

Patients with a long history of ulcerative colitis (UC) are at risk of developing a significant complication known as UC‐associated neoplasia (UCAN). To reduce the risk of UCAN and the associated mortality, the current guidelines recommend initiating surveillance colonoscopy 8–10 years after confirmation of UC diagnosis. In recent years, advancements in endoscopic diagnostic technologies, including magnifying and image‐enhancing techniques, have allowed for the production of high‐contrast images that emphasize mucosal structures, vascular patterns, and color tones. Recently, image‐enhanced endoscopy technologies have become available and offer the potential to improve the qualitative endoscopic assessment of UCAN. The use of high‐definition chromoendoscopy enables the evaluation of subtle mucosal patterns in the colon. Magnifying narrow‐band imaging facilitates the visualization of mucosal vascular structures. Texture and color enhancement imaging processes structure, color tone, and brightness aspects more appropriately, whereas linked color imaging optimizes the emphasis on mucosal and vascular redness. Both techniques are expected to excel in the depiction of subtle color variations and mucosal changes characteristic of UCAN. This article provides an overview of the current status and future challenges regarding the use of various image‐enhanced endoscopy techniques in the diagnosis of UCAN.
Comparison of cold snare polypectomy for sessile serrated lesions ≥10 mm between experienced and trainee endoscopists: A propensity score matching cohort study
Authors: Kimoto Yoshiaki , Sawada Rikimaru , Banjoya Susumu , Iida Toshihumi , Kimura Tomoya , Furuta Koichi , Nagae Shinya , Ito Yohei , Yamazaki Hiroshi , Takeuchi Nao , Takayanagi Syunya , Kano Yuki , Sakuno Takashi , Ono Kohei , Negishi Ryoju , Sakai Eiji , Minato Yohei , Chiba Hideyuki , Ohata Ken
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Previous studies of cold snare polypectomy (CSP) for sessile serrated lesions (SSLs) ≥10 mm were performed by experienced endoscopists, and therefore their skills might have significantly influenced results. In this study, we compared the efficacy and safety of CSP for SSLs ≥10 mm between experienced and trainee endoscopists.

Methods

In a 1:1 propensity score matched retrospective cohort study, we compared the complete resection rate, en‐bloc resection rate, adverse event rate, and procedure time between experienced and trainee groups. Thirteen endoscopists performed CSP, and we defined the experienced group as endoscopists with board certification from the Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.

Results

We examined 616 lesions with SSLs ≥10 mm resected by CSP between February 2018 and May 2022. We excluded 61 lesions from the analysis because they had simultaneously undergone hot snare polypectomy (n = 57) or had been taken over by experienced endoscopists from trainees in the CSP procedure (n = 4). Finally, we identified 217 propensity score‐matched pairs (n = 434). Between experienced and trainee groups, the results were complete resection rate (100 vs. 100%; p = 1.00), en‐bloc resection rate (73.2 vs. 75.6%; p = 0.24), adverse event rate (3.2 vs. 2.8%; p = 0.77), or procedure time (6.2 vs. 5.9 min; p = 0.64).

Conclusions

We have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of CSP for SSLs ≥10 mm performed by experienced and trainee endoscopists.
Guide for application of macroporous adsorption resins in polysaccharides purification
Authors: Zhou Yanan , Dai Xin , Zhang Jingyuan , Gao ShuJuan , Lu Xu
Published: January 2024

As a highly selective, recoverable, and low‐cost process, macroporous resins (MPRs) are of interest for the purification of bioactive components from natural products. This guide takes super‐crosslinked MPR as an example, and focuses on application of macroporous adsorption resin in polysaccharide purification, including pretreatment and regeneration of macroporous adsorption resin, various factors affecting the adsorption effect of macroporous adsorption resin, and adsorption mechanism of resin.
Enhanced Adsorption and Conversion of Polysulfides by ZIF‐67‐Based Co3O4/TiO2 Heterostructure and Attached Polypyrrole 3D Conductive Network for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries with Stable and Extended Cycling
Authors: Liu Yanyi , Wei Jian , Qiao Xinyu , Li Xueting , Zhang Hao , Xiong Houfei
Published: January 2024

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are favored as ideal batteries for next‐generation electrical stored energy systems owing to their high theoretical energy diversity and low operating costs. Therefore, the development of Li–S batteries with excellent rate capability and stable cycling is still a challenge. In this article, the electrochemical performance of lithium–sulfur batteries with high capacity and long cycle stability is achieved through dual physical and chemical adsorption effects using polypyrrole (PPy) attached to Co3O4/TiO2 heterojunction structures based on metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) backbone materials. Co3O4/TiO2 polyhedra form a built‐in electric field, which is also a good adsorbent for polysulfides PPy nanotubes have a vacant structure, thus minimizing the volume expansion during deformation and maintaining the stability of the structure. The reversible specific capacities of lithium–sulfur batteries prepared based on Co3O4/TiO2/PPy electrodes are 1095 and 739.4 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C and 1 C multiplicity, respectively, and the capacity retention rate is 77.84% after 500 cycles at 1 C multiplicity. The structural design of the S@Co3O4/TiO2/PPy anode demonstrates an excellent ability to limit LiPS and has great potential to provide a promising avenue for the practical application of lithium–sulfur batteries.
Enhancing Photovoltaic Farm Capacity Estimation: A Comprehensive Analysis with a Novel Approach
Authors: Hosseini Dolatabadi Sayed Hamid , Soleimani Alireza , Maghanaki Mazdak , Ilinca Adrian
Published: January 2024

This research paper addresses the inaccuracies in the current methods for estimating the capacity value of photovoltaic (PV) plants, which rely heavily on large‐scale data and fail to represent the actual capacity value pattern accurately. The research conducts case studies in Belgium, Texas, and California to analyze the impact of different factors on capacity value. It proposes a new metric called the Marginal Moving‐Average Limited‐Hours (MMALH) Equivalent Load‐Carring Capability (ELCC) ‐ Based capacity value. The proposed metric reduces the dependence on hourly data and better represents capacity value. The results from real case studies validate the effectiveness of the new metric, highlighting its novelty and contribution to the assessment of capacity value in PV power systems. The study emphasizes the importance of accurately assessing the capacity value of PV compared to conventional units, considering environmental factors and system parameters. The study exposes the shortcomings in current metrics and advocates for the MMALH ELCC methodology as a more precise evaluation approach. The research suggests optimizing design, employing advanced tracking systems, enhancing maintenance practices, and ensuring effective grid integration to boost solar plant efficiency. Consistent monitoring and analysis of the utilization factor are vital for pinpointing improvement areas and augmenting productivity.
Prediction of daily fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentration in Aksaray, Turkey: Temporal variation, meteorological dependence, and employing artificial neural network
Authors: Koçak Ebru
Published: January 2024

This study analyzed the temporal variation and prediction of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations in Aksaray, Turkey, a city in Central Anatolia. The relationship between PM2.5 and meteorological parameters such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and wind direction was investigated. An artificial neural network (ANN) model was developed to predict PM2.5 levels based on meteorological data and air pollutant information. Seasonal and diurnal patterns of PM2.5 concentrations were observed, with higher values recorded during the winter and lower values during the summer. Additionally, higher levels were observed in the morning and evening, while lower levels were recorded in the afternoon. The variations in meteorological parameters, especially temperature and wind speed, significantly influenced PM2.5 levels. To predict hourly PM2.5 concentrations, single and multiple data imputation techniques were employed in combination with resilient back‐propagation (RPROP‐ANN). The neural network was applied, consisting of one input layer comprising 11 parameters, one hidden layer with 20 neurons, and an output layer. The results indicate that the best forecasting performance for PM2.5 was demonstrated by the combination of the missForest imputation technique with the RPROP neural network, as assessed by the coefficient of determination (R2), mean absolute error (MAE), and root mean square error (RMSE). The proposed model is characterized by a low RMSE of 5.94 and a high R2 value of 0.88, demonstrating exceptional predictive performance in air quality.
Measuring carbon emissions throughout the lifecycles of urban conventional buses
Authors: Zhang Wenhui , Fu Bo , Zhou Ge , Song Ziwen , Xi Cong , Li Decai
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we selected representative electric buses (EBs) and diesel buses as research cases, aiming to explore a localized method suitable for various vehicle types that can be implemented in any region to measure the carbon emissions of urban buses throughout the lifecycle. We take into account the influence of seasonal factors over the lifecycle. We fully consider the production, assembly, and recycling stages of vehicle systems. We construct a model for estimating CO2 emissions during the fuel cycle. We analyze and compare the impacts of the optimized power grid structure on the lifecycle CO2 emissions of the two types of buses. The results indicate that seasonal factors affect both bus types' energy consumption, with EBs being more sensitive. Carbon emissions primarily stem from manufacturing the body, chassis, and notably, the lithium‐ion batteries, with the latter having a pronounced impact on EBs. A decrease in coal power generation from 71% to 21% in the grid reduced EB fuel‐cycle emissions by 70.7%. Although EBs are sensitive to seasonal factors, they still have the greatest potential for carbon reduction, depending on the proportion of clean energy in the power grid and the production processes of vehicle components.
Expatriate managers' personal financial insecurity indirectly thwarts team innovation: The role of state learning goal orientation
Authors: Ni Dan , Wu Shaoxue , Zheng Michelle Xue , Wu Wen
Published: January 2024

This paper studies the downstream effect of expatriate managers' personal financial insecurity on team innovation. Building on resource allocation theory, we propose a moderated serial mediation model. Using four‐wave, multi‐source survey data from 99 R&D expatriate teams within large technology companies in emerging markets, we find that expatriate managers' personal financial insecurity is negatively related to team innovation first through a lower level of state learning goal orientation in the last month, and subsequently through a lower level of intellectual stimulation behavior. The negative effect of expatriate managers' personal financial insecurity on state learning goal orientation is weakened when professional identification is higher (vs. lower). Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Deep learning to estimate gestational age from fly‐to cineloop videos: A novel approach to ultrasound quality control
Authors: Viswanathan Ambika V. , Pokaprakarn Teeranan , Kasaro Margaret P. , Shah Hina R. , Prieto Juan C. , Benabdelkader Chiraz , Sebastião Yuri V. , Sindano Ntazana , Stringer Elizabeth , Stringer Jeffrey S. A.
Published: January 2024

Objective

Low‐cost devices have made obstetric sonography possible in settings where it was previously unfeasible, but ensuring quality and consistency at scale remains a challenge. In the present study, we sought to create a tool to reduce substandard fetal biometry measurement while minimizing care disruption.

Methods

We developed a deep learning artificial intelligence (AI) model to estimate gestational age (GA) in the second and third trimester from fly‐to cineloops—brief videos acquired during routine ultrasound biometry—and evaluated its performance in comparison to expert sonographer measurement. We then introduced random error into fetal biometry measurements and analyzed the ability of the AI model to flag grossly inaccurate measurements such as those that might be obtained by a novice.

Results

The mean absolute error (MAE) of our model (±standard error) was 3.87 ± 0.07 days, compared to 4.80 ± 0.10 days for expert biometry (difference −0.92 days; 95% CI: −1.10 to −0.76). Based on simulated novice biometry with average absolute error of 7.5%, our model reliably detected cases where novice biometry differed from expert biometry by 10 days or more, with an area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of 0.93 (95% CI: 0.92, 0.95), sensitivity of 81.0% (95% CI: 77.9, 83.8), and specificity of 89.9% (95% CI: 88.1, 91.5). These results held across a range of sensitivity analyses, including where the model was provided suboptimal truncated fly‐to cineloops.

Conclusions

Our AI model estimated GA more accurately than expert biometry. Because fly‐to cineloop videos can be obtained without any change to sonographer workflow, the model represents a no‐cost guardrail that could be incorporated into both low‐cost and commercial ultrasound devices to prevent reporting of most gross GA estimation errors.
Adoption of contraception following a pregnancy loss in India
Authors: Das Labhita , Shekhar Chander , Sengupta Shoummo , Mishra Akshay
Published: January 2024

Objective

The present study was carried out to describe contraceptive adoption following pregnancy terminations that resulted in outcomes other than live birth.

Method

Retrospective calendar data on 31486 women who had experienced a pregnancy loss within the last 60 months prior to the survey date were drawn from a nationally representative dataset. Logistic regression was employed to model the associated factors with contraceptive uptake.

Results

Overall, 57.8% reported not adopting any method following the end of the recent pregnancy. There was a significant association between the choice of contraceptive method and timing of adoption. Women with living children were significantly more likely to adopt contraception as compared to women without any child.

Conclusion

Contraceptive uptake following a non‐live birth is considerably low in India. Interventions in reproductive health should focus on provision of different contraceptive methods and counseling emphasizing on effectiveness and correct use of the methods at the end of any pregnancy.