bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrospun Poly‐l‐Lactic Acid Membranes Promote M2 Macrophage Polarization by Regulating the PCK2/AMPK/mTOR Signaling Pathway
Authors: Tang Daiyuan , Han Bing , He Chengkai , Xu Yunrong , Liu Zhui , Wang Weizhou , Huang Zaitian , Xiao Zhenping , He Fei
Published: April 2024

Electrospun membranes are widely used in tissue engineering. Regretfully, there is limited research on how its morphological characteristics precisely regulate macrophage activation and immune response. Therefore, electrospun poly‐l‐lactic acid (PLLA) membranes with different alignments (align and random) and diameters (nanoscale and microscale) are prepared to investigate the effects of different surface morphologies on M2 macrophage polarization. Additionally, transcriptome, proteome, and phosphoproteome sequencings are combined to examine the underlying regulatory mechanisms. The results show that the electrospun PLLA membranes with different surface morphologies have good biocompatibility and can regulate the phenotype and function of macrophages by changing the micromorphology of the matrix surface. Especially, macrophages cultured on the electrospun membranes of the A600 group exhibit higher M2 macrophage polarization than the other three groups. Furthermore, the findings demonstrate that electrospun PLLA membranes enhance AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK)/ mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling activation by upregulating the expression of integrin phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 2 (PCK2), which is critical for M2 macrophage polarization. Taken together, electrospun PLLA membranes promote M2 macrophage polarization by regulating the PCK2/AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway. This research can provide further theoretical bases for scaffold design, immunoregulatory mechanisms, and clinical application based on electrospinning technology in the future.
Tailored Fabrication of Full‐Color Ultrastable Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence Carbon Dots Composites with Unexpected Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence
Authors: Ai Lin , Xiang Wenjuan , Xiao Jiping , Liu Huimin , Yu Jingkun , Zhang Linlin , Wu Xueting , Qu Xiaoli , Lu Siyu
Published: April 2024

The development of single‐system materials that exhibit both multicolor room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) and thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) with tunable after glow colors and channels is challenging. In this study, four metal‐free carbon dots (CDs) are developed through structural tailoring, and panchromatic high‐brightness RTP is achieved via strong chemical encapsulation in urea. The maximum lifetime and quantum yield reaches 2141 ms and 56.55%, respectively. Moreover, CDs‐IV@urea, prepared via coreshell interaction engineering, exhibits a dual afterglow of red RTP and green TADF. The degree of conjugation and functional groups of precursors affects the binding interactions of the nitrogen cladding on CDs, which in turn stabilizes triplet energy levels and affects the energy gap between S1 and T1 (ΔEST) to induce multicolor RTP. The enhanced wrapping interaction lowers the ΔEST, promoting reverse intersystem crossing, which leads to phosphorescence and TADF. This strong coreshell interaction fully stabilizes the triplet state, thus stabilizing the material in water, even in extreme environments such as strong acids and oxidants. These afterglow materials are tested in multicolor, time, and temperature multiencryption as well as in multicolor in vivo bioimaging. Hence, these materials have promising practical applications in information security as well as biomedical diagnosis and treatment.
Unraveling Paradoxical Effects of Large Current Density on Zn Deposition
Authors: Liu Zhexuan , Liu Jiachang , Xiao Xiao , Zheng Zhiyang , Zhong Xiongwei , Fu Qingjin , Wang Shaogang , Zhou Guangmin
Published: April 2024

Aqueous zinc‐based batteries (ZBs) have been widely investigated owing to their intrinsic safety, low cost, and simple assembly. However, the actual behavior of Zn deposition under large current density is still a severe issue associated with obscure mechanism interpretation of ZBs under high loading. Here, differing from the conventional understanding that short circuit is induced by dendrite penetrating under large current density (10–100 mA cm−2), the separator permeation effect is unraveled to illustrate the paradox between smooth deposition and short lifespan. Generally, a dense plating morphology is achieved under large current density because of intensive nuclei and boosted plane growth. Nevertheless, in the scenes applying separators, the multiplied local current density derived from narrow separator channels leads to rapid Zn2+ exhaustion, converting the Zn deposition mode from nucleation control to concentration control, which eventually results in separator permeation and short circuit. This effect is validated in other aqueous metal anodes (Cu, Sn, Fe) and receives similar results. Based on the understanding, a micro‐pore (150 µm) sponge foam is proposed as separators for large‐current anodes to provide broader Zn2+ path and mitigate the separator permeation effect. This work provides unique perspectives on coordinating fast‐charging ability and anode stability of ZBs.
“Cicada Out of the Shell” Deep Penetration and Blockage of the HSP90 Pathway by ROS‐Responsive Supramolecular Gels to Augment Trimodal Synergistic Therapy
Authors: Li Fashun , Yan Jianqin , Wei Chen , Zhao Yi , Tang Xiaowen , Xu Long , He Bin , Sun Yong , Chang Jing , Liang Yan
Published: April 2024

Deep penetration and downregulation of heat shock protein (HSP) expression in multimodal synergistic therapy are promising approaches for curing cancer in clinical trials. However, free small‐molecule drugs and most drug vehicles have a low delivery efficiency deep into the tumor owing to poor drug penetration and hypoxic conditions at the tumor site. In this study, the objective is to use reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐responsive supramolecular gels co‐loaded with the photosensitizer Zn(II) phthalocyanine tetrasulfonic acid (ZnPCS4) and functionalized tetrahedral DNA (TGSAs) (G@P/TGSAs) to enhance deep tissue and cell penetration and block the HSP90 pathway for chemo‐ photodynamic therapy (PDT) ‐ photothermal therapy (PTT) trimodal synergistic therapy. The (G@P/TGSAs) are injected in situ into the tumor to release ZnPCS4 and TGSAs under high ROS concentrations originating from both the tumor and PDT. TGSAs penetrate deeply into tumor tissues and augment photothermal therapy by inhibiting the HSP90 pathway. Proteomics show that HSP‐related proteins and molecular chaperones are inhibited/activated, inhibiting the HSP90 pathway. Simultaneously, the TGSA‐regulated apoptotic pathway is activated. In vivo study demonstrates efficient tumor penetration and excellent trimodal synergistic therapy (45% tumor growth inhibition).
Non‐Expendable Regulator Enables Durable and Deep Cycling Aqueous Zinc Batteries
Authors: Chen Yining , Zhou Shuang , Li Jianwen , Kang Juntong , Lin Shangyong , Han Chao , Duan Haimin , liang Shuquan , Pan Anqiang
Published: April 2024

Unstable electrode/electrolyte interface with irreversible Zn deposition and hydrogen reactions have severely damage the cycle life of aqueous zinc‐metal batteries (ZMBs), which is closely related to interfacial environment and deposition behavior of Zn2+. In this work, a series of rare earth chlorides (RCl3) are proposed as non‐expendable regulators to address the above problems. Specifically, rare earth cations (R3+) with high adsorption energy can simultaneously isolate the adsorbed polar H2O molecule layer at the anode interface and regulate uniform Zn deposition behavior by electrostatic shielding. Meanwhile, Cl− binds H2O molecules via the weak hydrogen bonds, thus further inhibiting water‐related side reactions. Consequently, the optimized Zn||Zn symmetric cell can stably cycle for over 8000 cycles at 5 mA cm−2. Surprisingly, the Zn anode with 68.3% zinc utilization also can be operated over 130 h. Even under harsh condition of low N/P ratio of 2.6:1 and high mass‐loading cathode of 12.57 mg cm−2, the NH4V4O10||Zn pouch cell preserves nearly all its capacity after 300 cycles. Further, a low N/P ratio pouch cell with a more respectable capacity of 37.3 mAh preserves deep cycling for 180 cycles. This study sheds light on non‐expendable additives to develop highly durable and deep cycling ZMBs.
Efficient Energy Management for Intelligent Microrobotic Swarms: Design and Impact
Authors: Zhu Minshen , McCaskill John S. , Karnaushenko Daniil , Bandari Vineeth Kumar , Gemming Sibylle , Kanoun Olfa , Arnold Marlen Gabriele , Schmidt Oliver G.
Published: April 2024

Energy serves as the foundational element for all active functions within microrobots. Harvesting devices, such as photovoltaic cells and coils, play a crucial role in converting diverse forms of energy into electricity, while energy storage devices enable uninterrupted operation and liberate microrobots from dependence on external sources. Despite the evident importance of energy, there exists a significant disconnect between the development of energy devices and their integration into microrobotic systems, hampering the deployment of microrobots across diverse fields from agriculture to microsurgery. Here, for transcending the “material for material's sake” focus on simple generic metrics for material optimization, such as energy density, advocating attention to the higher tier transformation of material metrics that determine device‐level performance and so make a meaningful contribution to microrobotic technology is argued. Appropriate metrics for microrobotic swarms challenge the stereotype that tiny energy supplies are impractical; instead, swarms simplify individual microrobotic functions, reducing single energy supply requirements and utilizing swarm energy distribution and management. In addition to essential evaluations of the environmental and social impacts of intelligent microrobotic swarms for their safe and beneficial implementation, research targeting these higher‐tier metrics is crucial to connecting energy material research and microrobot developments effectively.
Comparative analysis of nutrient absorption in rice cultivation: Aerobic versus anaerobic conditions in furrow‐irrigated rice
Authors: Chlapecka Justin L. , Roberts Trenton L. , Hardke Jarrod T.
Published: April 2024

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) production in the Mid‐Southern United States has traditionally been under conventional flood (CF) production, namely, direct‐seeded and delayed‐flood production. However, furrow‐irrigated rice (FIR) has grown to comprise over 15% of Arkansas’ and 30% of Missouri's rice hectarage. The uptake of several nutrients, including phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and zinc (Zn), has been shown to differ between aerobic and flooded rice production. Hence, a nutrient uptake survey was conducted from 2018 to 2020 in FIR fields to determine the difference in nutrient uptake (macro‐ and micronutrients) between the upper generally aerobic environment at the top of the field and the bottom of the field, where a generally anaerobic or flooded environment existed from R1 to maturity. Aboveground biomass samples were taken at R3 from four nitrogen (N) treatments at the top and bottom of five sites on a clayey soil texture and four sites on a loamy soil texture. Results suggest that there is significantly lower P, K, sodium (Na), and manganese (Mn) uptake at the top of the field compared to the bottom of the field on both soil textures. Additionally, the N treatments that yielded the highest biomass generally led to the greatest uptake of all nutrients examined. The decrease in P and K uptake in the aerobic portion of an FIR field suggests that they may require altered fertilizer recommendations compared to the traditional CF rice system.
Upconversion Luminescence Based Direct Hybridization Assay to Detect Subfemtomolar miR‐20 a DNA Analogue in Plasma
Authors: Kuusinen Saara , Lahtinen Satu , Soukka Tero
Published: April 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are promising biomarkers especially for early‐stage cancer diagnostics, but the implementation of miRNA‐based diagnostic tests is still hindered by the limitations of current analytical methods. The small size, low concentrations in biofluids and high sequence homology of miRNAs are challenges for assay development. Currently, most of the sensitive detection methods rely on enzymatic amplification steps, which complicate the analysis and can lead to biases in quantitation. Therefore, there is an increasing need to develop enzyme‐free detection methods that are sensitive, specific and user‐friendly. In this study, a simple direct hybridization assay for the DNA analogue of miR‐20a was developed. The assay is based on upconverting nanoparticle labels, which enable ultrasensitive detection, and hairpin structured probes, which provide additional hybridization stability due to base stacking. The limit of detection was 0.73 fM with plasma recoveries between 76 % and 111 %, demonstrating that the assay could be used for direct detection of miRNAs from complex sample matrices without isolation of RNA. Due to the simplicity and the excellent sensitivity for an amplification‐free method, the assay has a great potential for miRNA‐based clinical applications.
Amino acid‐decorated mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with titanocene derivatives for targeted anticancer studies
Authors: Iorhemba Michael Aondona , Ovejero‐Paredes Karina , Díaz‐García Diana , García‐Almodóvar Victoria , Idris Sulaiman Ola , Shallangwa Gideon Adamu , Abdulkadir Ibrahim , Méndez‐Arriaga José M. , Prashar Sanjiv , Filice Marco , Gómez‐Ruiz Santiago
Published: April 2024

Nanostructured materials possess promising potential for cancer therapy through precise adjustment of their functionalization and physicochemical attributes. This study primarily focuses on the synthesis and characterization of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) that are functionalized with titanocene dichloride (a therapeutic agent) and one of several amino acids—cysteine, captopril, penicillamine, or methionine—utilizing 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (AP) as a linker. This synthesis yielded four innovative metallodrug‐functionalized nanostructured materials (MSN‐AP‐Cys‐Ti, MSN‐AP‐Cap‐Ti, MSN‐AP‐Pen‐Ti, and MSN‐AP‐Met‐Ti), meticulously characterized using diverse analytical techniques such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), diffuse reflectance ultraviolet–visible (DR UV–Vis), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The textural properties of the nanomaterials post‐functionalization displayed slight modifications, confirming the successful integration of the therapeutic agents. Evaluation of cytotoxicity in the breast cancer cell line MDA‐MB‐231, with the healthy cell line Hek‐293T as control via MTT assays, revealed the active nature of the functionalized silica‐based materials. The viability of both cell lines indicated a concentration‐dependent response to the materials. Among the tested systems, cysteine and captopril exhibited the highest activity concerning IC50relative to material concentration. The enhanced biological activity of higher functionalized nanosystems suggests a favorable cell internalization facilitated by the amino acid fragment. Additionally, qualitative DNA binding studies hinted at potential DNA adsorption on the surface of the metallodrug‐functionalized nanomaterials, forming DNA adducts where a strand of DNA covalently bonds to the metallodrug moiety. This was deduced from the hypsochromic shift in absorbance of the characteristic π–π* andn–π* transitions in DNA, which occurred from 1.01 to 0.76 and 1.26–0.19 following drug (MSN‐AP‐Cap‐Ti) interaction.
Determination of Electrode Balancing in Multilayer Pouch Cells Through Tracking and Tracing in Lithium‐Ion Battery Production
Authors: Sommer Alessandro , Wachter Jannis , Grabmann Sophie , Daub Rüdiger
Published: April 2024

Manufacturing lithium‐ion batteries is a complex procedure with interconnected process steps. Unknown interdependencies lead to production deviations, which, in combination with expensive materials, result in costly rejects. To gain better insight into the processes, tracking and tracing systems are increasingly being established in battery cell production. This improves the database and enhances transparency, as quality‐critical production data is already recorded during electrode production and specifically assigned to individual intermediate products. The data assignment aids in characterizing intermediate products properties to identify correlations and defects. An important parameter is the balancing from cathode to anode, which has a crucial influence on cell performance. Therefore, this paper demonstrates the determination of the balancing between all electrode layers in a lithium‐ion pouch cell using a traceability system. The traceable areal mass loading was determined for each electrode sheet. After the stacking process, the opposing electrode areal mass loadings of the cathodes and anodes were used to calculate the electrode balancing. Subsequently, their influence on the cycling performance of the cells was investigated. Battery cells with areal mass loadings within the permissible tolerances showed no abnormalities, whereas cells with production fluctuations exhibited rapid ageing.
Critically assessing atavism, an evolution‐centered and deterministic hypothesis on cancer
Authors: Daignan‐Fornier Bertrand , Pradeu Thomas
Published: April 2024

Cancer is most commonly viewed as resulting from somatic mutations enhancing proliferation and invasion. Some hypotheses further propose that these new capacities reveal a breakdown of multicellularity allowing cancer cells to escape proliferation and cooperation control mechanisms that were implemented during evolution of multicellularity. Here we critically review one such hypothesis, named “atavism,” which puts forward the idea that cancer results from the re‐expression of normally repressed genes forming a program, or toolbox, inherited from unicellular or simple multicellular ancestors. This hypothesis places cancer in an interesting evolutionary perspective that has not been widely explored and deserves attention. Thinking about cancer within an evolutionary framework, especially the major transitions to multicellularity, offers particularly promising perspectives. It is therefore of the utmost important to analyze why one approach that tries to achieve this aim, the atavism hypothesis, has not so far emerged as a major theory on cancer. We outline the features of the atavism hypothesis that, would benefit from clarification and, if possible, unification.
Structural Engineering of Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Efficient CO2 Reduction Reaction
Authors: Cheng Mingjie , Zheng Xiaoli , Ma Fuxiao , Zhu Zhengkai , Xu Qun
Published: April 2024

Metal‐organic framework (MOF) materials have attracted much attention due to their diverse topological structures, excellent adsorption capacity, and unique physicochemical properties, which hold great promise in catalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). However, the original MOFs materials have disadvantages such as poor electrical conductivity, high diffusion barrier and limited accessible catalytic sites, which seriously limit their application in CO2RR. Therefore, many structural engineering strategies have been used to improve the CO2RR performance of the MOFs materials. In this review, we mainly review the four main structure engineering strategies, i. e. crystal engineering, 2D engineering, heterostructure engineering and MOF derivatives engineering, in enhancing the catalytic CO2RR performance of the MOFs. We hope that this review will not only provide insights for the rational design of efficient MOFs materials for the CO2RR, but also stimulate more research work in this field.
Electrodeposited NiFe‐LDH on the Surface of Ni‐BDC for Electrocatalytic Water Oxidation
Authors: Wei Yu , Han Zhenze , Liu Taolue , Ding Xin , Gao Yan
Published: April 2024

Substrate surface modification with a functional material can effectively enhance the electrocatalytic performance of an electrode on oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In this work, a functional Ni‐BDC MOF nanosheet layer was in‐situ grown on the surface of nickel foam (NF). Consequently, the NiFe layered double hydroxides (NiFe‐LDH) electrodeposited on the modified layer exhibited an excellent activity and an amazing long‐term stability on electrocatalytic OER. In alkaline electrolyte, the well‐designed NiFe‐LDH/Ni‐BDC/NF drives a current density of 100 mA cm−2 at a small overpotential of 223 mV, with a low Tafel slope of 33.1 mV dec−1 and an outstanding catalytic stability of more than 10 days under continuous electrocatalysis. Such distinguished performances are attributed to the particular hydrophily and electrical conductivity of the Ni‐BDC layer. This work is an important attempt to bring a simple and effective guideline on fabricating a highly efficient catalytic electrode for OER.
Molybdenum Sulfide Nanoflowers as Electrodes for Efficient and Scalable Lithium‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Mir Rameez Ahmad , Hoseini Amir Hosein Ahmadian , Hansen Evan J. , Tao Li , Zhang Yue , Liu Jian
Published: April 2024

Hybrid supercapacitors (HSCs) bridge the unique advantages of batteries and capacitors and are considered promising energy storage devices for hybrid vehicles and other electronic gadgets. Lithium‐ion capacitors (LICs) have attained particular interest due to their higher energy and power density than traditional supercapacitor devices. The limited voltage window and the deterioration of anode materials upsurged the demand for efficient and stable electrode materials. Two‐dimensional (2D) molybdenum sulfide (MoS2) is a promising candidate for developing efficient and durable LICs due to its wide lithiation potential and unique layer structure, enhancing charge storage efficiency. Modifying the extrinsic features, such as the dimensions and shape at the nanoscale, serves as a potential path to overcome the sluggish kinetics observed in the LICs. Herein, the MoS2 nanoflowers have been synthesized through a hydrothermal route. The developed LIC exhibited a specific capacitance of 202.4 F g−1 at 0.25 A g−1 and capacitance retention of >90 % over 5,000 cycles. Using an ether electrolyte improved the voltage window (2.0 V) and enhanced the stability performance. The ex‐situ material characterization after the stability test reveals that the storage mechanism in MoS2‐LICs is not diffusion‐controlled. Instead, the fast surface redox reactions, especially intercalation/deintercalation of ions, are more prominent for charge storage.
Preventative treatment of tuberous sclerosis complex with sirolimus: Phase I safety and efficacy results
Authors: Capal Jamie K. , Ritter David M. , Franz David Neal , Griffith Molly , Currans Kristn , Kent Bridget , Martina Bebin E. , Northrup Hope , Koenig Mary Kay , Mizuno Tomoyuki , Vinks Alexander A. , Galandi Stephanie L. , Zhang Wujuan , Setchell Kenneth D.R. , Kremer Kelly M. , Prada Carlos M. , Greiner Hansel M. , Holland‐Bouley Katherine , Horn Paul S. , Krueger Darcy A.
Published: April 2024

Objective

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) results from overactivity of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR). Sirolimus and everolimus are mTOR inhibitors that treat most facets of TSC but are understudied in infants. We sought to understand the safety and potential efficacy of preventative sirolimus in infants with TSC.

Methods

We conducted a phase 1 clinical trial of sirolimus, treating five patients until 12 months of age. Enrolled infants had to be younger than 6 months of age with no history of seizures and no clinical indication for sirolimus treatment. Adverse events (AEs), tolerability, and blood concentrations of sirolimus measured by tandem mass spectrometry were tracked through 12 months of age, and clinical outcomes (seizure characteristics and developmental profiles) were tracked through 24 months of age.

Results

There were 92 AEs, with 34 possibly, probably, or definitely related to treatment. Of those, only two were grade 3 (both elevated lipids) and all AEs were resolved by the age of 24 months. During the trial, 94% of blood sirolimus trough levels were in the target range (5–15 ng/mL). Treatment was well tolerated, with less than 8% of doses held because of an AE (241 of 2941). Of the five patients, three developed seizures (but were well controlled on medications) at 24 months of age. Of the five patients, four had normal cognitive development for age. One was diagnosed with possible autism spectrum disorder.

Interpretation

These results suggest that sirolimus is both safe and well tolerated by infants with TSC in the first year of life. Additionally, the preliminary work suggests a favorable efficacy profile compared with previous TSC cohorts not exposed to early sirolimus treatment. Results support sirolimus being studied as preventive treatment in TSC, which is now underway in a prospective phase 2 clinical trial (TSC‐STEPS).
Smart Sensing of Nerve Agents
Authors: Puglisi Roberta , Santonocito Rossella , Pappalardo Andrea , Trusso Sfrazzetto Giuseppe
Published: April 2024

The recent international scenario highlights the importance to protect human health and environmental quality from toxic compounds. In this context, organophosphorous (OP) Nerve Agents (NAs) have received particular attention, due to their use in terrorist attacks. Classical instrumental detection techniques are sensitive and selective, but they cannot be used in real field due to the high cost, specialized personnel requested and huge size. For these reasons, the development of practical, easy and fast detection methods (smart methods) is the future of this field. Indeed, starting from initial sensing research, based on optical and/or electrical sensors, today the development and use of smart strategies to detect NAs is the current state of the art. This review summarizes the smart strategies to detect NAs, highlighting some important parameters, such as linearity, limit of detection and selectivity. Furthermore, some critical comments of the future on this field, and in particular, the problems to be solved before a real application of these methods, are provided.
Investigating the relationship between green human resource management and employees' environmental behavior
Authors: Qi Lei , Pang Zhiqiang , Xu Yuping , Liu Bing
Published: April 2024

Although accumulated evidence has shown that green human resource management (GHRM) has crucial effects on employees' environmental behavior, there is limited research on the underlying mechanisms of the link. Drawing on social information processing theory, we build a multilevel model to test that how and when GHRM has benefits for employees' environmental behavior. For a sample of 866 frontline employees organized into 53 hotels collected from three data sources, we find that GHRM is positively associated with work group green advocacy, which in turn is positively associated with employees' environmental behavior. Moreover, managerial interpretations of environmental issues strengthen the positive effect of work group green advocacy on employees' environmental behavior. Theoretical and practical implications of our results are discussed.
Electron Structure of α‐, β‐Te2MoO7 and Photocatalytic Decomposition of Antibiotics
Authors: Fukina Diana G. , Boryakov Aleksey V. , Koroleva Alexandra V. , Zhizhin Evgeny V. , Titaev Dmitry N. , Koryagin Andrey V. , Shotina Valeria A. , Shilova Elena V. , Suleimanov Evgeny V. , Mitin Alexander V.
Published: April 2024

Two modifications of Te2MoO7 oxide have been prepared by different synthetic methods. The crystal structure and composition have been studied by X‐ray diffraction analysis and X‐ray microanalysis. The phase of α‐Te2MoO7 has been synthesized by solid‐state reaction from ammonium salts and characterized by monoclinic structure with P21/c. The β‐Te2MoO7 compound has been formed in hydrothermal conditions and has amorphous nature. The thermal behavior of β‐Te2MoO7 modification is characterized by the phase transition into α‐form, however after melting the amorphous state has restored. The electron structure has been investigated experimentally by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV‐vis diffusion reflectance spectra and theoretically by approximation using atomic electronegativity. Despite the same composition, the band gap of β‐Te2MoO7 corresponds to visible light, whereas α‐Te2MoO7 adsorbs light in UV region. The both modifications are able to generate superoxide radicals in vacuum or air and hydroxyl radicals in water under irradiation. The HPLC‐MS analysis has shown the quite deep decomposition of dye and antibiotics by α‐Te2MoO7, whereas amorphous phase almost does not lead to any oxidation.
Research Progress of Photovoltaic Cooling Systems Based on Phase Change Materials: An Overview
Authors: Liu Yang , Zhang Xuelai , Hua Weisan , Fang Manting , Zhang Jiajun
Published: April 2024

Photovoltaic technology plays a crucial role in harnessing renewable energy. While photovoltaic panels directly convert solar energy into electricity, more than 50% of solar radiation is lost as waste heat, diminishing the overall efficiency of the panels. This study reviews various cooling technologies for photovoltaic systems, focusing on the use of phase change materials for cooling in photovoltaic systems. Phase change materials, known for their high latent heat capacity, are extensively used in thermal energy storage applications. Incorporating phase change materials in photovoltaic systems can increase thermal storage potential by 30–50% compared to conventional systems, leading to a 70% extension in heat storage duration and various levels of enhanced power output. The main purpose of the article is to review the advantages and disadvantages of various technologies, determine the research direction of phase change materials for cooling systems in photovoltaics, and ensure the reliability of this technology.
Enabling free movement but restricting domestic policy space? The price of mutual recognition
Authors: Zöllmer Jasmin , Grethe Harald
Published: April 2024

Free movement of goods within the EU is guaranteed via mutual recognition: any product lawfully produced in one member state must also be accepted in all other member states. While unleashing economic benefits from trade without regulatory barriers, mutual recognition potentially limits member states' ability to address societal concerns with regard to production conditions. This hypothesis is addressed via the case of farm animal welfare in Germany, combining a thorough policy analysis with 20 elite interviews. The results demonstrate how the discourse of inner‐European competition has discouraged policymakers to adopt stricter legislation over the past three decades, exemplifying the impeding effect of mutual recognition on member states' policies. Understanding these mechanisms is vital for handling regulatory diversity within integrated markets and offers insights into similar policy areas. This research contributes to the broader issue of national sustainability standards in a globalized world, where collective preferences increasingly collide with economic goals.
Arts‐based approaches for futures workshops: Creating and interpreting artistic futures images
Authors: Lehikoinen Kai , Tuittila Satu
Published: April 2024

As a multidisciplinary field, futures research borrows approaches from different disciplines. However, it often ignores the potential of the arts on a large scale, even though the arts embrace creativity and often depict and narrate imagined futures. This article applies a case study approach to review and categorize selected arts‐based approaches and assess their potential—strengths and limitations—for futures workshops in higher arts education context. The approaches were tried extensively in Art School Futures Labs (15 test labs and 12 actual labs) and a summer school in eight European countries. Three case examples are scrutinized in more detail to illuminate their use in the cocreation of futures images. One artistic futures image is discussed within the frameworks of Wittgensteinian aspect perception and intertextuality, highlighting the importance of interpretation in unpacking the complex meanings that artistic futures images convey. Finally, some recommendations are given to support the successful use of arts‐based approaches in futures workshops.
Post‐combustion carbon dioxide adsorption of concurrent activated and surface modified palm kernel shell‐derived activated carbon
Authors: Lai Jia Yen , Ngu Lock Hei
Published: April 2024

This research applied a concurrent activation and surface modification (CAM) process to synthesize palm kernel shell‐derived activated carbon (PKSdAC) to obtain CO2affinity surface functionalization. The CAM process is a simplified activated carbon activation process that is cost‐effective. The CAM process used in this study integrates sulphuric acid activation and barium chloride functionalization. The formation of barium sulphate is targeted to incorporate barium through a reduction process with carbon‐containing material at elevated temperatures into PKSdAC to obtain basic metal surfaces functional group for chemical adsorption. The optimal temperature for CAM‐PKSdAC CO2adsorption performance was at 40–60 °C, established through temperature‐programmed desorption of CO2(TPD‐CO2) analysis. The CAM‐PKSdAC adsorption performance was tested using a lab‐scale adsorption system. The bed CO2content was determined using gas chromatography coupled with a thermal conductivity detector (GC‐TCD) by manual syringe injection. CAM‐PKSdAC exhibited a high CO2adsorption capacity of 0.89 mmol g−1from TPD‐CO2, and 1.91 mmol g−1from GC‐TCD at 40 °C and 1 bar. It showed comparable CO2adsorption capacity to conventional surface modified‐activated PKSdAC (1.96 mmol g−1) while higher than commercial and modified ACs (1.14–1.60 mmol g−1), but lower than potassium hydroxide modified ACs (1.81–2.10 mmol g−1) at 40 °C and 1 bar. Barium promoted chemisorption of CO2as supplementary reaction, which increases adsorption capacity. The non‐linear Dubinin Radushkevich model strongly correlates with the experimental adsorption data for CAM‐PKSdAC adsorption, indicating the physisorption process via micropore filling on CAM‐PKSdAC. CAM‐PKSdAC showed moderate reusability with negligible variation in adsorption capacity after 10 adsorption–desorption cycles. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The neural representation of metacognition in preferential decision‐making
Authors: Liu Cuizhen , Wang Keqing , Yu Rongjun
Published: April 2024

Humans regularly assess the quality of their judgements, which helps them adjust their behaviours. Metacognition is the ability to accurately evaluate one's own judgements, and it is assessed by comparing objective task performance with subjective confidence report in perceptual decisions. However, for preferential decisions, assessing metacognition in preference‐based decisions is difficult because it depends on subjective goals rather than the objective criterion. Here, we develop a new index that integrates choice, reaction time, and confidence report to quantify trial‐by‐trial metacognitive sensitivity in preference judgements. We found that the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) and the right anterior insular were more activated when participants made bad metacognitive evaluations. Our study suggests a crucial role of the dmPFC‐insula network in representing online metacognitive sensitivity in preferential decisions.
Functionally annotated electrophysiological neuromarkers of healthy ageing and memory function
Authors: Auer Tibor , Goldthorpe Robin , Peach Robert , Hebron Henry , Violante Ines R.
Published: April 2024

The unprecedented increase in life expectancy presents a unique opportunity and the necessity to explore both healthy and pathological aspects of ageing. Electroencephalography (EEG) has been widely used to identify neuromarkers of cognitive ageing due to its affordability and richness in information. However, despite the growing volume of data and methodological advancements, the abundance of contradictory and non‐reproducible findings has hindered clinical translation. To address these challenges, our study introduces a comprehensive workflow expanding on previous EEG studies and investigates various static and dynamic power and connectivity estimates as potential neuromarkers of cognitive ageing in a large dataset. We also assess the robustness of our findings by testing their susceptibility to band specification. Finally, we characterise our findings using functionally annotated brain networks to improve their interpretability and multi‐modal integration. Our analysis demonstrates the effect of methodological choices on findings and that dynamic rather than static neuromarkers are not only more sensitive but also more robust. Consequently, they emerge as strong candidates for cognitive ageing neuromarkers. Moreover, we were able to replicate the most established EEG findings in cognitive ageing, such as alpha oscillation slowing, increased beta power, reduced reactivity across multiple bands, and decreased delta connectivity. Additionally, when considering individual variations in the alpha band, we clarified that alpha power is characteristic of memory performance rather than ageing, highlighting its potential as a neuromarker for cognitive ageing. Finally, our approach using functionally annotated source reconstruction allowed us to provide insights into domain‐specific electrophysiological mechanisms underlying memory performance and ageing.

Highlights

We provide an open and reproducible pipeline with a comprehensive workflow to investigate static and dynamic EEG neuromarkers.

Neuromarkers related to neural dynamics are sensitive and robust.

Individualised alpha power characterises cognitive performance rather than ageing.

Functional annotation allows cross‐modal interpretation of EEG findings.
3D bioprinted aged human post‐infarct myocardium tissue model
Authors: Basara Gozde , Celebi Lara Ece , Ronan George , Discua Santos Victoria , Zorlutuna Pinar
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Fibrotic tissue formed after myocardial infarction (MI) can be as detrimental as MI itself. However, current in vitro cardiac fibrosis models fail to recapitulate the complexities of post‐MI tissue. Moreover, although MI and subsequent fibrosis is most prominent in the aged population, the field suffers from inadequate aged tissue models. Herein, an aged human post‐MI tissue model, representing the native microenvironment weeks after initial infarction, is engineered using three‐dimensional bioprinting via creation of individual bioinks to specifically mimic three distinct regions: remote, border, and scar.

Methods

The aged post‐MI tissue model is engineered through combination of gelatin methacryloyl, methacrylated hyaluronic acid, aged type I collagen, and photoinitiator at variable concentrations with different cell types, including aged human induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, cardiac fibroblasts, and cardiac myofibroblasts, by introducing a methodology which utilizes three printheads of the bioprinter to model aged myocardium. Then, using cell‐specific proteins, the cell types that comprised each region are confirmed using immunofluorescence. Next, the beating characteristics are analyzed. Finally, the engineered aged post‐MI tissue model is used as a benchtop platform to assess the therapeutic effects of stem cell‐derived extracellular vesicles on the scar region.

Results

As a result, high viability (>74%) was observed in each region of the printed model. Constructs demonstrated functional behavior, exhibiting a beating velocity of 6.7 μm/s and a frequency of 0.3 Hz. Finally, the effectiveness of hiPSC‐EV and MSC‐EV treatment was assessed. While hiPSC‐EV treatment showed no significant changes, MSC‐EV treatment notably increased cardiomyocyte beating velocity, frequency, and confluency, suggesting a regenerative potential.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we envision that our approach of modeling post‐MI aged myocardium utilizing three printheads of the bioprinter may be utilized for various applications in aged cardiac microenvironment modeling and testing novel therapeutics.
The impact of antibiotic resistance on the rampant spread of infectious diseases in Pakistan: Insights from a narrative review
Authors: Mirha Hania‐Tul , Ali Syed H. , Aamar Humna , Sadiq Mahnoor , Tharwani Zoaib H. , Habib Zehra , Malikzai Abdullah
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Antibiotic resistance (ABR) is a global public health emergency which has seen an uptick in low‐ to middle‐income countries in recent times due to a plethora of aggravating factors and has led to a whole host of setting‐specific pathogens registering high rates of resistance, causing outbreaks with graver mortality and morbidity. This review analyzes available literature to determine the causes and effects of ABR and recommend solutions to the problem in a Pakistani setting.

Methods

Sources for this narrative review were identified via electronic databases using keyword search methods. The information was retrieved using databases such as PubMed and Science Direct. Additionally, websites such as CDC and World Health Organization were used to attain pertinent information. All the sources were selected as per their relevance and appropriateness toward the purpose of this review.

Results

This review details the causes by dividing them into three primary strata, namely (1) under‐regulation, (2) over‐prescription and self‐medication, and (3) lack of medical stewardship. This is made much graver when the COVID‐19 pandemic and the subsequent erratic treatment response is considered, with the pandemic augmenting already high levels of consumption. These factors have led a cascade of effects including, but not limited to, a considerable increase in ABR in pathogens to first‐line drugs

Conclusion

ABR is a serious and growing issue which will result in undesirable personal, local, and national consequences if unchecked. Mitigation and reversal of this trend is necessary by developing existing programs and investing in novel therapies and pharmaceutical research and strengthening regulatory policies and mechanisms.
The role of social support and self‐management on glycemic control of type 2 diabetes mellitus with complications in Ghana: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Adu Frank Amankwah , Poku Collins Atta , Adu Amanda Parko , Owusu Lydia Boampong
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Diabetes mellitus (DM) can result in detrimental complications which are connected with long‐term impairments and disabilities. Chronic complications are well‐known consequences of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) progression, which reduce patient quality of life, place a burden on the healthcare system, and increase mortality. Measures to promote health outcomes for people with DM are scanty; the study therefore aimed at determining the effects of self‐management and social support on glycemic control of T2DM with complications in Ghana.

Methods

A cross‐sectional design using convenience sampling was conducted on 400 T2DM patients using Hensarling's Diabetes Family Support Scale and Summary of Diabetes Self‑Care Activities scale. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive, Pearson Moment Product Correlation and Binary Logistic Regression on self‐management, social support, and glycemic control in T2DM patients.

Results

Social support among participants was high and there was a positive correlation or relationship between social support and T2DM self‐management. There was a correlation between social support and self‐management (r = 0.149, p < 0.05) and diet control (r = 0.221, p < 0.05). The results also showed a significant correlation between medication adherence and glycemic management (r = 0.116, p < 0.05) while female T2DM participants, individuals with at least primary education were less likely to have low self‐management relative to T2DM.

Conclusion

Though the level of T2DM self‐management was high it does not translate to good glycemic control. Focused health education programs should be incorporated into patients' care plans which will be particularly relevant for patients with T2DM and will contribute to positive physiological and psychological outcomes. Furthermore, a more robust monitoring and follow‐up scheme should be scaled up or instituted for patients with T2DM.
Physiotherapy students' attitudes toward the use of telehealth in clinical practice: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Davies Luke , Lawford Belinda J. , Chan Cliffton
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Provision of physiotherapy services using telehealth has drastically increased since the COVID‐19 pandemic and continues to be utilized in clinical practice suggesting telehealth in physiotherapy will become common practice. Prior research has explored the attitudes of physiotherapists with many years of in‐person clinical experience toward telehealth. However, little is known about the emerging workforce's attitudes. This study aims to explore physiotherapy students' attitudes toward the use of telehealth in clinical practice.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey of physiotherapy students enrolled in the Doctor of Physiotherapy program at Macquarie University between November 2022 and February 2023. Participants rated their level of agreement across 11 statements regarding telehealth use in physiotherapy clinical practice using a 5‐point Likert scale ranging from “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree.” Participants answered two open‐ended questions regarding when they might use telehealth in clinical practice as a physiotherapist and why they believe physiotherapists might be reluctant to use telehealth in clinical practice.

Results

A total of 118 participants completed the survey (response rate 53%). Overall, most participants believed telehealth would continue being offered post‐Covid‐19 (86%, n = 101), participants would use some form of telehealth in clinical practice (82%, n 96), believe a blended approach would be beneficial for patients (84%, n = 99), and were interested in further training in telehealth (90%, n = 107). We identified six broad themes, including accessibility, subsequent consultations, inability to provide manual therapies, limited training/education, perceived ineffectiveness, and digital literacy of the patient.

Conclusion

Overall physiotherapy students believe telehealth will continue being offered in clinical practice, form part of contemporary physiotherapy practice, and are interested in further training to upskill in the delivery of care via telehealth. Given the continued use and students' demand for future training, it may be time to reimagine the inclusion of telehealth education and training in the entry‐level physiotherapy curriculum.