bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of fertilization ability in obligatorily outcrossing populations of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Palka Joanna K. , Dyba Alicja , Brzozowska Julia , Antoł Weronika , Sychta Karolina , Prokop Zofia M.
Published: September 2023

In species reproducing by selfing, the traits connected with outcrossing typically undergo degeneration, a phenomenon called selfing syndrome. In Caenorhabditis elegans nematodes, selfing syndrome affects many traits involved in mating, rendering cross-fertilization highly inefficient. In this study, we investigated the evolution of cross-fertilization efficiency in populations genetically modified to reproduce by obligatory outcrossing. Following the genetic modification, replicate obligatorily outcrossing were maintained for over 100 generations, at either optimal (20 °C) or elevated (24 °C) temperatures, as a part of a broader experimental evolution program. Subsequently, fertilization rates were assayed in the evolving populations, as well as their ancestors who had the obligatory outcrossing introduced but did not go through experimental evolution. Fertilization effectivity was measured by tracking the fractions of fertilized females in age-synchronized populations, through 8 h since reaching adulthood. In order to check the robustness of our measurements, each evolving population was assayed in two or three independent replicate blocks. Indeed, we found high levels of among-block variability in the fertilization trajectories, and in the estimates of divergence between evolving populations and their ancestors. We also identified five populations which appear to have evolved increased fertilization efficiency, relative to their ancestors. However, due to the abovementioned high variability, this set of populations should be treated as candidate, with further replications needed to either confirm or disprove their divergence from ancestors. Furthermore, we also discuss additional observations we have made concerning fertilization trajectories.
EXOSC10 is a novel hepatocellular carcinoma prognostic biomarker: a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis and experiment verification
Authors: Meng Zhi-Yong , Fan Yu-Chun , Zhang Chao-Sheng , Zhang Lin-Li , Wu Tong , Nong Min-Yu , Wang Tian , Chen Chuang , Jiang Li-He
Published: September 2023

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor. There are few studies on EXOSC10 (exosome component 10) in HCC; however, the importance of EXOSC10 for HCC remains unclear.

Methods

In the study, the prognosis value of EXOSC10 and the immune correlation were explored by bioinformatics. The expression of EXOSC10 was verified by tissue samples from clinical patients and in vitro experiment (liver cancer cell lines HepG2, MHCC97H and Huh-7; normal human liver cell line LO2). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to detect EXOSC10 protein expression in clinical tissue from HCC. Huh-7 cells with siEXOSC10 were constructed using lipofectamine 3000. Cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) and colony formation were used to test cell proliferation. The wound healing and transwell were used to analyze the cell migration capacity. Mitochondrial membrane potential, Hoechst 33342 dye, and flow cytometer were used to detect the change in cell apoptosis, respectively. Differential expression genes (DEGs) analysis and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were used to investigate the potential mechanism of EXOSC10 and were verified by western blotting.

Results

EXOSC10 was highly expressed in tissues from patients with HCC and was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) in HCC. Increased expression of EXOSC10 was significantly related to histological grade, T stage, and pathological stage. Multivariate analysis indicated that the high expression level of EXOSC10 was correlated with poor overall survival (OS) in HCC. GO and GSEA analysis showed enrichment of the cell cycle and p53-related signaling pathway. Immune analysis showed that EXOSC10 expression was a significant positive correlation with immune infiltration in HCC. In vitro experiments, cell proliferation and migration were inhibited by the elimination of EXOSC10. Furthermore, the elimination of EXOSC10 induced cell apoptosis, suppressed PARP, N-cadherin and Bcl-2 protein expression levels, while increasing Bax, p21, p53, p-p53, and E-cadherin protein expression levels.

Conclusions

EXOSC10 had a predictive value for the prognosis of HCC and may regulate the progression of HCC through the p53-related signaling pathway.
Predictors of one-year mortality following hip fracture surgery in elderly
Authors: Özel Mehmet , Altıntaş Mustafa , Tatlıparmak Ali Cankut
Published: September 2023

Background

Understanding mortality risk factors is critical to reducing mortality among elderly hip fracture patients. To investigate the effects of admission and post-operative levels of distribution width of red blood cells (RDW), albumin, and RDW/albumin (RA) ratio on predicting 1-year mortality following hip fracture surgery.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 275 elderly patients who underwent hip fracture surgery in a tertiary hospital between January 2018 and January 2022. Deaths within one year of hip fracture were defined as the deceased group. The survivors were defined as those who survived for at least one year. The relationship between admission and post-operative levels of RDW, albumin, RA, and mortality within one year after hip surgery was assessed statistically, including binary logistic regression analysis. The study also assessed other factors related to mortality.

Results

One-year mortality was 34.7%. There was a 3.03-year (95% CI [1.32–4.75]) difference between the deceased (79.55 ± 8.36 years) and survivors (82.58 ± 7.41 years) (p < 0.001). In the deceased group, the mean hemoglobin (HGB) values at admission (p = 0.022) and post-operative (p = 0.04) were significantly lower. RDW values at admission (p = 0.001) and post-op (p = 0.001) were significantly lower in the survivor group. The mean albumin values at admission (p < 0.001) and post-operative (p < 0.001) in the survivor group were significantly higher than in the deceased group. A significant difference was found between the survivor group and the deceased group in terms of mean RA ratio at admission and post-operative (p < 0.001). Based on binary logistic regression analysis, presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (OR 3.73, 95% CI [1.8–7.76]), RDW (OR 1.78, 95% CI [1.48–2.14]), and albumin (OR 0.81, 95% CI [0.75–0.87]), values at admission were found to be independent predictors of 1-year mortality in elderly patients with hip fracture.

Conclusion

Based on this study, presence of COPD, higher RDW, and lower albumin levels at admission were independent predictors of 1-year mortality following hip fracture surgery in the elderly.
Retrospective study: risk assessment model for osteoporosis—a detailed exploration involving 4,552 Shanghai dwellers
Authors: Han Dan , Fan Zhongcheng , Chen Yi-sheng , Xue Zichao , Yang Zhenwei , Liu Danping , Zhou Rong , Yuan Hong
Published: September 2023

Background

Osteoporosis, a prevalent orthopedic issue, significantly influences patients’ quality of life and results in considerable financial burden. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a clinical prediction model for osteoporosis risk, utilizing computer algorithms and demographic data.

Method

In this research, a total of 4,552 residents from Shanghai were retrospectively included. LASSO regression analysis was executed on the sample’s basic characteristics, and logistic regression was employed for analyzing clinical characteristics and building a predictive model. The model’s diagnostic capacity for predicting osteoporosis risk was assessed using R software and computer algorithms.

Results

The predictive nomogram model for bone loss risk, derived from the LASSO analysis, comprised factors including BMI, TC, TG, HDL, Gender, Age, Education, Income, Sleep, Alcohol Consumption, and Diabetes. The nomogram prediction model demonstrated impressive discriminative capability, with a C-index of 0.908 (training set), 0.908 (validation set), and 0.910 (entire cohort). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the model was 0.909 (training set), 0.903 (validation set), and applicable to the entire cohort. The decision curve analysis further corroborated that the model could efficiently predict the risk of bone loss in patients.

Conclusion

The nomogram, based on essential demographic and health factors (Body Mass Index, Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides, High-Density Lipoprotein, Gender, Age, Education, Income, Sleep, Alcohol Consumption, and Diabetes), offered accurate predictions for the risk of bone loss within the studied population.
Crop Residues Management: A Viable Tool for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Sisodiya R. R. , Vasave J. B. , Naik Jaimin R.
Published: September 2023

The crop residue, traditionally considered as agricultural waste, is increasingly being viewed as a valuable resource. If the current trend continues, crop residue will be a “co-product” of grain production where both the grain and the residue have significant value. Potentially gross quantities of over 500 Mt crop residues are available in India on an annual basis and generated by various crops. Due to the scarcity of alternative organic amendments, the retention of crop residue in fields can be considered key in promoting physical, chemical, and biological attributes of soil in the agricultural systems of developing countries. The stems, leaves, chaffs, husks, etc., that remain in the fields after crops are harvested, play a critical role in soil quality and environmental issues since they are primary inputs of elemental carbon (C) into the soil system. About 25% N, 25% P, 75% K and 50% S uptake by cereal crops are retained in residues, making them valuable sources of nutrients.
Phytochemical Screening and Potential Antibacterial, Antifungi and Antioxidative Activities of the Leaves Extracts of Piperomia pellucida (Piperaceae)
Authors: Moungang Luciane Marlyse , Ndemangou Brigitte , Ache Roland Ndifor , Sidjui Lazare Sidjui , Ngandjui Yvan Anderson , Ngueukam Nathalie , Kamga Hortense Gonsu , Ngameni Bathelemy
Published: September 2023

The hexane, ethanolic, hydroethanolic and aqueous leaves extracts of Piperomia pellucida were evaluated in vitro for their antimicrobial activity against five gram negative bacilli (Klebsiella pneumoniae CHUY, Escherichia coli ATCC 35218, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Salmonella typhi CHUY and Salmonella enterica CHUY), two cocci gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 5199) and two fungi (Candida albicans CHUY and Candida albicans 20231) using microdilution techniques. The extracts were also assayed for their antioxidant properties by DPPH and FRAP methods with Vitamin C as reference. The results demonstrated that, the hexane extract exhibited strong antibacterial potency with MIC value of 0.625 mg/mL and MBC of 1.25 mg/mL on Salmonella typhi CHUY. Also, it showed good activities on P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853 and S. enterica CHUY; and weak activity against E. coli ATCC 35218 and S. aureus ATCC 25923. The aqueous extract displayed good activities against S. aureus ATCC 25923, P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853, E. coli ATCC 35218, S. typhi CHUY, S enterica CHUY ; weak potency toward E. coli ATCC 35218 and was inactive on the tested fungi strains. The ethanolic and hydroethanolic extract displayed weak activities on E. coli ATCC 35218, S. enterica CHUY and S. typhi CHUY.

The strongest antioxidative activities of efficient concentrations were exhibited by the ethanolic (10.681 ± 0.530µg/mL) and the hydroethanolic extracts (16.339 ± 0.043µg/mL).
Morphological Changes of Meibomian Gland in Anopthalmic Patients Wearing PMMA Prosthetic Eyes
Authors: Desouky Amany Mouawad El , Desouky Mohamed Ashraf El , Awara Amr Mahmoud , Shabana Reham Refaat
Published: September 2023

Background: Chronic ocular discomfort represents one of the most common adverse events referred to patients with long-standing ocular prosthesis wearing.

Aim and Objectives: The current work aimed to evaluate the morphological changes of meibomian gland in unilateral anophthalmic patients wearing PMMA prosthetic eyes in relation to contralateral normal eye.

Subjects and Methods: This work has been performed upon 40 eyes of patients with anopthalmic socket wearing PMMA prosthetic eye completed a questionnaire designed to identify MGD-related ocular symptoms. Both eyelids of each patient underwent slit lamp examination, meibography imaging, and microbilogical assessment. Intra-individual comparison of main outcome measures between the eyelids of a prosthetic eye and paired normal eyelids was performed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. A linear mixed model was employed to evaluate the relationship between ocular symptoms and meibomian gland/tear characteristics.

Results: The eyelids with an ocular prosthesis exhibited significantly higher scores for ocular symptoms, lid margin abnormality, meibomian gland expression, and meibography compared to the normal eyelids (p<0.01 for all scores). The meibography score was significantly positively connected with the ocular symptom score and negatively correlated with tear parameters (p<0.01 for all parameters, linear mixed model).

Conclusions: With a prosthetic eye, meibomian glands of the eyelids are more likely to be lost. Accordingly, deterioration and loss of normal anatomical structures might lead to obstructive MGD, which was strongly associated with dry eye ocular symptoms.

These findings suggest that patients with prosthetic eyes, particularly those experiencing ocular discomfort, may benefit from clinical screening and care recommendations for MGD.
Knowledge about the Relation between Human Papillomavirus and Oropharynx Squamous Cell Carcinomas among University Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Ferreira Chrystiano Campos , Sá Cláudia Daniela Barros de , Filho Francisco Júlio Barbosa Lima , Ferreira Herika Rangel
Published: September 2023

Background: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection globally and is linked to certain types of cancer, including oropharynx squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCC). Unfortunately, a large part of the population is unaware of this connection. University students play a crucial role in spreading scientific knowledge, and many studies have been conducted to assess their knowledge on the subject. However, no study has collated data from previous research. Therefore, our study aims to carry out a systematic review with meta-analysis to determine the level of knowledge among university students regarding the link between HPV and OPSCC.

Methodology: We conducted a systematic review according to the recommendations of the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA). We include 22 of a total of 290 studies.

Results: The overall pooled prevalence of university students who knew the relation between HPV and OPSCC was 45.00% (95% CI: 35.00-55.00). According to the subgroup meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence was highest in dental students 64.00% (95% CI: 47.00-79.00), followed by medical students 39.00% (95% CI: 18.00-66.00), and the lower prevalence was the health student group 35.00% (95% CI: 27.00-43.00).

Conclusion: This systematic review revealed low knowledge about the relationship between HPV and OPSCC among university students, but better knowledge among dental students.
Medicare and Medicaid Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan Enrollment and Beneficiary-Reported Experiences With Care
Authors: Meyers David J. , Offiaeli Kendra , Trivedi Amal N. , Roberts Eric T.
Published: September 2023

This cross-sectional study analyzes Medicare Advantage surveys to compare Medicare and Medicaid dual-eligible individuals’ experiences with care across 3 established categories of plans.
Readmission Rates After Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Children
Authors: Keim Garrett , Hsu Jesse Y. , Pinto Neethi P. , McSherry Megan L. , Gula Annie Laurie , Christie Jason D. , Yehya Nadir
Published: September 2023

Importance

An increasing number of children survive after acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The long-term morbidity affecting these survivors, including the burden of hospital readmission and key factors associated with readmission, is unknown.

Objective

To determine 1-year readmission rates among survivors of pediatric ARDS and to investigate the associations of 3 key index hospitalization factors (presence or development of a complex chronic condition, receipt of a tracheostomy, and hospital length of stay [LOS]) with readmission.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study used data from the commercial or Medicaid IBM MarketScan databases between 2013 and 2017, with follow-up data through 2018. Participants included hospitalized children (aged ≥28 days to <18 years) who received mechanical ventilation and had algorithm-identified ARDS. Data analysis was completed from March 2022 to March 2023.

Exposures

Complex chronic conditions (none, nonrespiratory, and respiratory), receipt of tracheostomy, and index hospital LOS.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was 1-year, all-cause hospital readmission. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were created to test the association of key hospitalization factors with readmission.

Results

One-year readmission occurred in 3748 of 13 505 children (median [IQR] age, 4 [0-14] years; 7869 boys [58.3%]) with mechanically ventilated ARDS who survived to hospital discharge. In survival analysis, the probability of 1-year readmission was 30.0% (95% CI, 29.0%-30.8%). One-half of readmissions occurred within 61 days of discharge (95% CI, 56-67 days). Both respiratory (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.69; 95% CI, 2.42-2.98) and nonrespiratory (aHR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.71-2.03) complex chronic conditions were associated with 1-year readmission. Placement of a new tracheostomy (aHR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.69-2.33) and LOS 14 days or longer (aHR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.62-2.16) were associated with readmission. After exclusion of children with chronic conditions, LOS 14 days or longer continued to be associated with readmission (aHR, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.49-2.47).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this retrospective cohort study of children with ARDS who survived to discharge, important factors associated with readmission included the presence or development of chronic medical conditions during the index admission, tracheostomy placement during index admission, and index hospitalization of 14 days or longer. Future studies should evaluate whether postdischarge interventions (eg, telephonic contact, follow-up clinics, and home health care) may help reduce the readmission burden.
Detecting outliers beyond tolerance limits derived from statistical process control in patient‐specific quality assurance
Authors: Tan Hong Qi , Lew Kah Seng , Wong Yun Ming , Chong Wen Chuan , Koh Calvin Wei Yang , Chua Clifford Ghee Ann , Yeap Ping Lin , Ang Khong Wei , Lee James Cheow Lei , Park Sung Yong
Published: September 2023

Background

Tolerance limit is defined on pre‐treatment patient specific quality assurance results to identify “out of the norm” dose discrepancy in plan. An out‐of‐tolerance plan during measurement can often cause treatment delays especially if replanning is required. In this study, we aim to develop an outlier detection model to identify out‐of‐tolerance plan early during treatment planning phase to mitigate the above‐mentioned risks.

Methods

Patient‐specific quality assurance results with portal dosimetry for stereotactic body radiotherapy measured between January 2020 and December 2021 were used in this study. Data were divided into thorax and pelvis sites and gamma passing rates were recorded using 2%/2 mm, 2%/1 mm, and 1%/1 mm gamma criteria. Statistical process control method was used to determine six different site and criterion‐specific tolerance and action limits. Using only the inliers identified with our determined tolerance limits, we trained three different outlier detection models using the plan complexity metrics extracted from each treatment field—robust covariance, isolation forest, and one class support vector machine. The hyperparameters were optimized using the F1‐score calculated from both the inliers and validation outliers’ data.

Results

308 pelvis and 200 thorax fields were used in this study. The tolerance (action) limits for 2%/2 mm, 2%/1 mm, and 1%/1 mm gamma criteria in the pelvis site are 99.1% (98.1%), 95.8% (91.1%), and 91.7% (86.1%), respectively. The tolerance (action) limits in the thorax site are 99.0% (98.7%), 97.0% (96.2%), and 91.5% (87.2%). One class support vector machine performs the best among all the algorithms. The best performing model in the thorax (pelvis) site achieves a precision of 0.56 (0.54), recall of 1.0 (1.0), and F1‐score of 0.72 (0.70) when using the 2%/2 mm (2%/1 mm) criterion.

Conclusion

The model will help the planner to identify an out‐of‐tolerance plan early so that they can refine the plan further during the planning stage without risking late discovery during measurement.
Superior Photocatalytic and Antibacterial Activity of Cadmium Selenide Nanoparticles Doped by Titanium or Lanthanum
Authors: Rayappan Emelda , Pandi Muthirulan , Muthaian Jaya Rajan , Rosenkranz Andreas , Raji Atchudan , Manoj Devaraj
Published: September 2023

This contemporary work delineates the photocatalytic and antibacterial activity of titanium (Ti) and lanthanum (La)‐doped cadmium selenide (CdSe) nanoparticles produced by a simple wet chemical method. Studies using diffraction and microscopy reveal that the synthesized samples devised cubic crystalline structure. The incorporation of the dopant into the host material is analyzed using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope–EDAX, and transmission electron microscopic studies. The photocatalytic activity Ti‐ and La‐doped CdSe nanoparticles results in improved degradation toward methylene blue (MB) dye under direct solar irradiation. This unique behavior is ascribed to the enhanced light absorption tendency with larger charge separation efficiency. Ongoing operational factors like initial dye concentration, catalyst dose, pH, and duration are evaluated regarding their effects on MB dye degradation. The photocatalytic activity for MB follows pseudo‐first‐order kinetics. The antibacterial activity of Ti– and La–metal‐doped CdSe is tested againstPseudomonas arueginosaandStaph aureusbacteria. The Ti–CdSe and La–CdSe nanoparticles show good antibacterial activity after 24 h of bacterial growthPseudomonas arueginosaandStaph aureus, respectively. Based on the findings, Ti–CdSe and La–CdSe nanoparticles exhibit an enhanced photocatalytic and antibacterial activity when compared with CdSe nanoparticles.
Wafer‐Scale Epitaxial Growth of the Thickness‐Controllable Van Der Waals Ferromagnet CrTe2 for Reliable Magnetic Memory Applications
Authors: Liu Xinqi , Huang Puyang , Xia Yunyouyou , Gao Lei , Liao Liyang , Cui Baoshan , Backes Dirk , van der Laan Gerrit , Hesjedal Thorsten , Ji Yuchen , Chen Peng , Zhang Yifan , Wu Fan , Wang Meixiao , Zhang Junwei , Yu Guoqiang , Song Cheng , Chen Yulin , Liu Zhongkai , Yang Yumeng , Peng Yong , Li Gang , Yao Qi , Kou Xufeng
Published: September 2023

To harness the intriguing properties of 2D van der Waals (vdW) ferromagnets (FMs) for versatile applications, the key challenge lies in the reliable material synthesis for scalable device production. Here, the epitaxial growth of single‐crystalline 1T‐CrTe2 thin films on 2‐inch sapphire substrates are demonstrated. Benefiting from the uniform surface energy of the dangling bond‐free Al2O3(0001) surface, the layer‐by‐layer vdW growth mode is observed right from the initial growth stage, which warrants precise control of the sample thickness beyond three monolayer and homogeneous surface morphology across the entire wafer. Moreover, the presence of the Coulomb interaction at the CrTe2/Al2O3 interface plays an important role in tailoring the anomalous Hall response, and the structural optimization of the CrTe2‐based spin‐orbit torque device leads to a substantial switching power reduction by 54%. The results may lay out a general framework for the design of energy‐efficient spintronics based on configurable vdW FMs.
Functional Polymeric Micromaterials Based on Aggregation‐Induced Emission Luminogens
Authors: Chen Shusheng , Han Ting , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: September 2023

Aggregate materials have attracted tremendous attention because of their modified or totally different properties compared with their molecular counterparts. Among various mesoscopic aggregate materials, polymeric micromaterials possess the advantages of diverse structures and flexible manufacturing, enabling them to serve as excellent carriers for aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) and good platforms for the research of aggregate science. In recent years, polymeric micromaterials constructed from AIEgens have witnessed rapid development and show great application potential in various fields, such as environmental sensing, multicolor displaying, and energy conversion. This review summarizes the recent progress on the design, preparation, structure, and applications of AIEgen‐based polymeric micromaterials. According to the structure features, AIEgen‐based polymeric micromaterials are divided into three categories, including microsphere, microfiber, and other‐shaped microparticles. The most representative examples in each category are highlighted by focusing on their subdivision structures such as solid microsphere, porous microsphere, microcapsule, microfiber doped‐ or coated with AIEgens, and core–shell microfiber. Finally, the challenges and prospects in this research field are also discussed. It is hoped that this review can provide readers with an overall view on the development of AIEgen‐based polymeric micromaterials and boost their further research.
Phase Segregation and Voltage Loss Mitigated Highly Efficient Perovskite–Organic Tandem Solar Cells with a Simple Ambipolar SnOx Interconnecting Layer
Authors: Xie Guanshui , Li Huan , Wang Xin , Fang Jun , Lin Dongxu , Wang Daozeng , Li Sibo , He Sisi , Qiu Longbin
Published: September 2023

The wide‐bandgap (WBG) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and narrow‐bandgap organic solar cells (OSCs) integrated tandem solar cells (TSCs) show great potential for overwhelming single junction structure, especially the advantage of applying orthogonal solvents for allowing solution processed of each subcell. However, the WBG perovskite with high Br content suffers from serious phase segregation and voltage loss. The commonly used interconnection layer (ICL) in TSCs requires a vacuum‐deposited thin metal recombination layer leading to remarkable optical loss. Herein, WBG perovskite with a bandgap of 1.77 eV yields an impressive open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.33 V and a minimum voltage loss of 0.44 V by an elaborate dielectric interface structure reducing the interfacial recombination. Furthermore, the WBG perovskite with a simple SnOX buffer layer exhibits significantly suppressed phase segregation and improved performance. Consequently, a simplified buffer layer based on the SnOX that serves as the ICL in perovskite–organic TSCs contributing enhanced light harvesting in the near‐infrared region is developed, yielding an efficiency of 22.31%. The simplified ICL that does not involve a metal layer is a potential strategy for scalable and flexible perovskite‐based TSCs.
Amphibious Polymer Materials with High Strength and Superb Toughness in Various Aquatic and Atmospheric Environments
Authors: Wan Hongbo , Wu Baohu , Hou Lei , Wu Peiyi
Published: September 2023

Herein, the fabrication of amphibious polymer materials with outstanding mechanical performances, both underwater and in the air is reported. A polyvinyl alcohol/poly(2‐methoxyethylacrylate) (PVA/PMEA) composite with multiscale nanostructures is prepared by combining solvent exchange and thermal annealing strategies, which contributes to nanophase separation with rigid PVA‐rich and soft PMEA‐rich phases and high‐density crystalline domains of PVA chains, respectively. Benefiting from the multiscale nanostructure, the PVA/PMEA hydrogel demonstrates excellent stability in harsh (such as acidic, alkaline, and saline) aqueous solutions, as well as superior mechanical behavior with a breaking strength of up to 34.8 MPa and toughness of up to 214.2 MJ m−3. Dehydrating the PVA/PMEA hydrogel results in an extremely robust plastic with a breaking strength of 65.4 MPa and toughness of 430.9 MJ m−3. This study provides a promising phase–structure engineering route for constructing high‐performance polymer materials for complex load‐bearing environments.
3D Biomass‐Derived Carbon Materials for Electrochemical Biosensors
Authors: Li Lei , Zhou Yujie , Xiao Xuanyu , Chen Zhiyu , Zhou Zhengming , Deng Hui , Deng Wei , Xu Yuanyuan , Li Guoyuan , Zhang Jieyu , Hu Xuefeng , Wang Yunbing
Published: September 2023

3D biomass‐derived carbon (3D‐BC) materials are widely developed for various electrochemical sensors due to their structural diversity and high electrical conductivity, and are gradually experiencing their most prosperous moment. A timely and comprehensive review of structure‐strategy‐property will greatly broaden this research field. In this paper, the mechanism of biomass‐derived carbon conversion is presented and the recent progress of 3D‐BC materials for constructing high‐performance electrochemical sensors, including biomass sources, carbonization methods, and synthesis strategies for 3D‐BC is summarized, as well as their applications in different electrochemical sensors are reviewed. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for the future development of biomass‐derived carbon (BC) materials are emphasized. In conclusion, this review will assist researchers in selecting suitable precursors and strategies to design BC materials and facilitate their application in future electrochemical sensors.
Interplay of Consecutive Energy Transfer and Negative Thermal Expansion Property for Achieving Superior Anti‐Thermal Quenching Luminescence
Authors: Jahanbazi Forough , Dimakis Nicholas , Mao Yuanbing
Published: September 2023

Luminescence thermal quenching (TQ) is one of the most critical problems to be solved for further improvement of phosphors’ applications in lighting and many other fields. Herein, a novel strategy is demonstrated to achieve outstanding anti‐TQ performance with a substantial enhancement of Eu3+ red emission at 613 nm from Sc2MO3O12:Tb3+,Eu3+ phosphor. Its anti‐TQ performance is endowed by dual energy transfer (ET) pathways and intensified by the negative thermal expansion (NTE) property of the Sc2MO3O12 host. Remarkably, the photoluminescence (PL) emission intensity of Eu3+ from Sc2MO3O12:20%Eu3+,2%Tb3+ phosphor at 648 K reaches 507.3% of the initial intensity taken at 298 K. The lifetime of Eu3+ emission at 613 nm elongates with increasing measurement temperature. The experimental data and density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the host structure shrinkage via NTE leads to the thermally boosted Eu3+ red emission by intensifying the consecutive ET and confinement of the absorption light. The potential of this phosphor as a dual‐mode high temperature thermometer based on both emission lifetime and intensity ratio read‐out modes is realized. This work provides inspiration to combine multiple strategies to achieve broad and dramatic anti‐TQ phosphors with enhanced performance for various optical applications.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells‐Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Orthopedic Diseases: Recent Advances and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Wang Xinwen , Tian Haodong , Yang Xinquan , Zhao Hongmou , Liang Xiaojun , Li Yi
Published: September 2023

Ever since the first application of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation treating human hematologic malignancies in 1995, MSC‐based treatments have demonstrated great therapeutic potential in clinical settings. However, only a few MSC‐based cell therapy products have been clinically approved. Accumulating evidence suggests that the beneficial effects of MSCs are mainly attributed to the release of paracrine factors or extracellular vesicles (EVs) rather than their mesodermal differentiation potential. Therefore, MSC‐derived EVs (MSC‐EVs), such as exosomes and microvesicles, have merged as promising alternatives to traditional cell‐based therapeutics in clinical practice. They offer several advantages such as better safety, lower immunogenicity, protection of cargoes from degradation, and the ability to overcome biological barriers. Moreover, there have been multiple clinical studies exploring the potential of MSC‐EVs for treating various diseases, including orthopedic disorders. However, there is no definitive “cure” for conditions such as osteoporosis and other bone disorders, but MSC‐EVs have displayed significant therapeutic potential for these orthopedic ailments. Therefore, the objective of this study is to conduct a systematic review of current knowledge related to MSC‐EVs and emphasize their potential application in treating orthopedic diseases, such as bone defects, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, intervertebral disc degeneration, osteosarcoma, and osteoradionecrosis.
Sensorized Skin With Biomimetic Tactility Features Based on Artificial Cross‐Talk of Bimodal Resistive Sensory Inputs
Authors: Georgopoulou Antonia , Hardman David , Thuruthel Thomas George , Iida Fumiya , Clemens Frank
Published: September 2023

Tactility in biological organisms is a faculty that relies on a variety of specialized receptors. The bimodal sensorized skin, featured in this study, combines soft resistive composites that attribute the skin with mechano‐ and thermoreceptive capabilities. Mimicking the position of the different natural receptors in different depths of the skin layers, a multi‐layer arrangement of the soft resistive composites is achieved. However, the magnitude of the signal response and the localization ability of the stimulus change with lighter presses of the bimodal skin. Hence, a learning‐based approach is employed that can help achieve predictions about the stimulus using 4500 probes. Similar to the cognitive functions in the human brain, the cross‐talk of sensory information between the two types of sensory information allows the learning architecture to make more accurate predictions of localization, depth, and temperature of the stimulus contiguously. Localization accuracies of 1.8 mm, depth errors of 0.22 mm, and temperature errors of 8.2 °C using 8 mechanoreceptive and 8 thermoreceptive sensing elements are achieved for the smaller inter‐element distances. Combining the bimodal sensing multilayer skins with the neural network learning approach brings the artificial tactile interface one step closer to imitating the sensory capabilities of biological skin.
Giant Spin‐Orbit Torque in Sputter‐Deposited Bi Films
Authors: Kim Sumin , Lee Hyun‐Woo , Choi Gyung‐Min
Published: September 2023

Bismuth (Bi) has the strongest spin‐orbit coupling among non‐radioactive elements and is thus a promising material for efficient charge‐to‐spin conversion. However, previous electrical detections have reported controversial results for the conversion efficiency. In this study, an optical detection of a spin‐orbit torque is reported in a Bi/CoFeB bilayer with a polycrystalline texture of (012) and (003). Taking advantage of the optical detection, spin‐orbit torque is accurately separated from the Oersted field and achieves a giant damping‐like torque efficiency of +0.5, verifying efficient charge‐to‐spin conversion. This study also demonstrates a field‐like torque efficiency of −0.1. For the mechanism of the charge‐to‐spin conversion, the bulk spin Hall effect and the interface Rashba‐Edelstein effect are considered.
To Be or Not to Be – Is MgSc2Se4 a Mg‐Ion Solid Electrolyte?
Authors: Glaser Clarissa , Wei Zhixuan , Indris Sylvio , Klement Philip , Chatterjee Sangam , Ehrenberg Helmut , Zhao‐Karger Zhirong , Rohnke Marcus , Janek Jürgen
Published: September 2023

Magnesium batteries offer promising potential as next‐generation sustainable energy‐storage solutions due to the high theoretical capacity of the magnesium metal anode. Facilitating dendrite‐free operation of metal anodes necessitates the development of solid electrolytes with high magnesium‐ion conductivity. While the chalcogenide spinel MgSc2Se4 is predicted to exhibit high magnesium ion mobility, unequivocal experimental evidence for magnesium ion conduction beyond short‐range motion is still missing. This study confirms magnesium‐ion transport in MgSc2Se4 through two independent electrochemical methods: electrochemical deposition of magnesium metal and reversible magnesium plating/stripping cycling. To overcome the difficulty of measuring the ionic conductivity of the mixed conducting MgSc2Se4 spinel, a pure ion conducting interlayer is employed in a symmetric transference cell. This approach effectively suppresses the electron transport, allowing accurate characterization of the ionic conductivity. The experimental results confirm a low migration barrier of (386 ± 24) meV for magnesium ion transport in MgSc2Se4 and demonstrate one of the best performances at room temperature among the reported inorganic magnesium solid electrolytes. The findings open a new door for exploring additional mixed magnesium ion conductors and highlight the potential of magnesium chalcogenide spinels as a promising class of magnesium solid electrolytes.
Intermediate Confinement for Selective Ammonia Electrosynthesis from Nitrate on Robust Mesoporous Metal Catalysts
Authors: Sun Lizhi , Yao Huiqin , Jia Fengrui , Wang Yanzhi , Liu Ben
Published: September 2023

Mesoporous metals have received massive research interests in catalysis and electrocatalysis due to their unique structural features. However, most studies have focused on enhancing activity with much less focus on promoting selectivity. Here, it is reported that the design of bimetallic palladium‐copper (PdCu) alloys at mesoscopic level is a reliable and robust strategy to confine the reaction intermediate and thus boost nitrate reduction reaction (NITRR) electrocatalysis for selective NH3 electrosynthesis. The optimized PdCu mesoporous nanospheres (MSs) disclose a high electrocatalytic NO3−‐to‐NH3 performance with NH3 Faradaic efficiency () of 85%, yield rate of 3058 µg h−1 mg−1, energy efficiency of 31%, and multi‐turn stability. The combination of surface analysis and experimental techniques reveals that the high NO3−‐to‐NH3 performance results from highly penetrated and active mesoporous channels of PdCu MSs that not only kinetically facilitate the adsorption and reactivity of NO3− but also enhance the confinement of key intermediate (NO2−) toward an eight‐electron NITRR pathway for selective NH3 electrosynthesis. More importantly, in accompany with compositional control, trimetallic PdCuRu alloy MSs disclose a superior of 95% and an impressive NH3 yield rate of 8518 µg h−1 mg−1 for selective NO3−‐to‐NH3 electroreduction.
Hurler Syndrome Glycosaminoglycans Decrease in Cerebrospinal Fluid without Brain‐Targeted Therapy
Authors: Lund Troy C. , Braunlin Elizabeth , Polgreen Lynda E. , Gupta Ashish O. , Orchard Paul J. , Eisengart Julie B.
Published: September 2023

Novel therapies for Hurler syndrome aim to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) to target neurodegeneration by degrading glycosaminoglycans (GAG). BBB penetration has been assumed with decreased cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) GAG, yet little is known about CSF GAG without brain‐targeting therapies. We compared pre‐transplant CSF GAG in patients who were treatment naïve (n = 19) versus receiving standard non‐BBB penetrating enzyme replacement therapy (ERT, n = 12). In the ERT versus treatment naïve groups, CSF GAG was significantly lower across all content assayed, raising questions about using CSF GAG decrements to show BBB penetration. Future studies should compare GAG reduction in standard versus novel therapies. ANN NEUROL 2023;94:1182–1186
Motorized Photomodulator: Making A Non‐photoresponsive Supramolecular Gel Switchable by Light
Authors: Shan Yahan , Zhang Qi , Sheng Jinyu , Stuart Marc C. A. , Qu Da‐Hui , Feringa Ben L.
Published: September 2023

Introducing photo‐responsive molecules offers an attractive approach for remote and selective control and dynamic manipulation of material properties. However, it remains highly challenging how to use a minimal amount of photo‐responsive units to optically modulate materials that are inherently inert to light irradiation. Here we show the application of a light‐driven rotary molecular motor as a “motorized photo‐modulator” to endow a typical H‐bond‐based gel system with the ability to respond to light irradiation and create a reversible sol‐gel transition. The key molecular design feature is the introduction of a minimal amount (2 mol %) of molecular motors into the supramolecular network as photo‐switchable non‐covalent crosslinkers. Advantage is taken of the subtle interplay of the large geometry change during photo‐isomerization of the molecular motor guest and the dynamic nature of a supramolecular gel host system. As a result, a tiny amount of molecular motors is enough to switch the mechanical modulus of the entire supramolecular systems. This study proves the concept of designing photo‐responsive materials with minimum use of non‐covalent light‐absorbing units.
Preparation of polyethylene glycol/polyacrylamide interpenetrating network hydrogel for simultaneously enhancing the fire protection and aging resistance of fireproof glass
Authors: Yi Liang , Zhou Longxiadi , Yan Long , Xu Zhisheng
Published: September 2023

To enhance the flame retardancy and aging resistance of grouting fireproof glass, different molecular weights of polyethylene glycol (PEG) were mixed with acrylamide (AM) to construct interpenetrating network hydrogels, then the obtained hydrogels were mixed with flame retardants to prepare a series of transparent flame‐retarded hydrogels applied in the fireproof glass. The effects of PAM/PEG hydrogel with varying PEG molecular weight on the optical transparency, heat insulation and aging resistance of fireproof glass were investigated. Optical transparency analysis shows that the light transmittance of grouting fireproof glass decreases with the increase of PEG molecular weight in the PAM/PEG interpenetrating network. Fire tests show that PAM/PEG hydrogel significantly enhances the heat insulation and aging resistance of the grouting fireproof glass compared to the single PAM network hydrogel. The flame‐retarded and anti‐aging effects of PAM/PEG hydrogel in the fireproof glass varies with the PEG molecular weight, and the order is PAM/PEG2000 > PAM/PEG1500 > PAM/PEG1000 > PAM/PEG800. Accelerated aging test shows that PAM/PEG interpenetrating network hydrogel is less affected by aging conditions and exerts durable heat insulation and transmittance. Especially, the backside temperature of 3600 s and transmittance of PAM/PEG2000 system after 264 h aging test only changed 38.3°C and 1.3%, respectively, compared to the unaged PAM/PEG2000 system.
Combined effects of vitamin B12 and fumarate on rumen propionate production and methanogenesis in dairy cow in vitro
Authors: Liu Zihao , Wang Kun , Zhao Yiguang , Nan Xuemei , Yang Liang , Zhou Mengting , Tang Xiangfang , Xiong Benhai
Published: September 2023

This study explored the combined effects of vitamin B12 and fumarate supplementation on methane (CH4) emission and propionate synthesis in dairy cows through simulated rumen fermentation in vitro. The experimental animals were 3 cows with an average milk yield of 23 ± 2.8 kg/d, a body weight of 618 ± 100 kg, and a parity of 3 ± 1 that were selected as rumen fluid donors. The TMR diet fed to cows is a fermentation substrate. Experiments adopted 2 × 2 factorial design, including control group, vitamin group (1 mg/g DM vitamin B12), fumarate group (100 mg/g DM), and combined addition group (1 mg/g DM vitamin B12 and 100 mg/g DM). All treatments had no effect on the dry matter degradation (DMD). Both vitamin B12 and fumarate reduced CH4 emission, increased the propionate concentration, and reduced the acetate/propionate ratio without any observed interaction. Vitamin B12 made Prevotella and Prevotellaceae_ UCG‐003 increase in quantity, and fumarate increased the abundance of Succinivibrionaceae_UCG‐002 and Selenomonas, both of which are propionate‐producing bacteria. At the species level, the supplementation of vitamin B12 and fumarate slightly changed the abundance of some strains, but it was not statistically significant. Shifts in the abundance of propionate‐producing bacteria and methanogenic archaea species suggest an increase in propionate production and a decrease in CH4 emission. In conclusion, the addition of vitamin B12 and fumarate changed the fermentation mode of the rumen and reduced the emission of CH4 by affecting the structure of the rumen microbial community, but no obvious interaction was found between the two.
Targeting Ultrafast Spectroscopic Insights into Red Fluorescent Proteins
Authors: Krueger Taylor D. , Chen Cheng , Fang Chong
Published: September 2023

Red fluorescent proteins (RFPs) represent an increasingly popular class of genetically encodable bioprobes and biomarkers that can advance next‐generation breakthroughs across the imaging and life sciences. Since the rational design of RFPs with improved functions or enhanced versatility requires a mechanistic understanding of their working mechanisms, while fluorescence is intrinsically an ultrafast event, a suitable toolset involving steady‐state and time‐resolved spectroscopic techniques has become powerful in delineating key structural features and dynamic steps which govern irreversible photoconverting or reversible photoswitching RFPs, and large Stokes shift (LSS)RFPs. The pertinent cis‐trans isomerization and protonation state change of RFP chromophores in their local environments, involving key residues in protein matrices, lead to rich and complicated spectral features across multiple timescales. In particular, ultrafast excited‐state proton transfer in various LSSRFPs showcases the resolving power of wavelength‐tunable femtosecond stimulated Raman spectroscopy (FSRS) in mapping a photocycle with crucial knowledge about the red‐emitting species. Moreover, recent progress in noncanonical RFPs with a site‐specifically modified chromophore provides an appealing route for efficient engineering of redder and brighter RFPs, highly desirable for bioimaging. Such an effective feedback loop involving physical chemists, protein engineers, and biomedical microscopists will enable future successes to expand fundamental knowledge and improve human health.