bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global NOx emission estimates derived from an assimilation of OMI tropospheric NO2 columns
Authors: Miyazaki K. , Eskes H. J. , Sudo K.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. A data assimilation system has been developed to estimate global nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions using OMI tropospheric NO2 columns (DOMINO product) and a global chemical transport model (CTM), the Chemical Atmospheric GCM for Study of Atmospheric Environment and Radiative Forcing (CHASER). The data assimilation system, based on an ensemble Kalman filter approach, was applied to optimize daily NOx emissions with a horizontal resolution of 2.8° during the years 2005 and 2006. The background error covariance estimated from the ensemble CTM forecasts explicitly represents non-direct relationships between the emissions and tropospheric columns caused by atmospheric transport and chemical processes. In comparison to the a priori emissions based on bottom-up inventories, the optimized emissions were higher over eastern China, the eastern United States, southern Africa, and central-western Europe, suggesting that the anthropogenic emissions are mostly underestimated in the inventories. In addition, the seasonality of the estimated emissions differed from that of the a priori emission over several biomass burning regions, with a large increase over Southeast Asia in April and over South America in October. The data assimilation results were validated against independent data: SCIAMACHY tropospheric NO2 columns and vertical NO2 profiles obtained from aircraft and lidar measurements. The emission correction greatly improved the agreement between the simulated and observed NO2 fields; this implies that the data assimilation system efficiently derives NOx emissions from concentration observations. We also demonstrated that biases in the satellite retrieval and model settings used in the data assimilation largely affect the magnitude of estimated emissions. These dependences should be carefully considered for better understanding NOx sources from top-down approaches.
A numerical comparison of different methods for determining the particle formation rate
Authors: Vuollekoski H. , Sihto S.-L. , Kerminen V.-M. , Kulmala M. , Lehtinen K. E. J.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. Different methods of determining formation rates of 3 nm particles are compared, basing on analysis of simulated data, but the results are valid for analyses of experimental particle size distribution data as well, at least within the accuracy of the applied model. The study shows that the method of determining formation rates indirectly from measured number concentration data of 3–6 nm particles is generally in good agreement with the theoretical calculation with a systematic error of 0–20%. While this accuracy is often enough, a simple modification to the approximative equation for the formation rate is recommended. A brief study on real atmospheric data implied that in some cases the accuracy gain may be significant.
Modeling of wave-induced irradiance variability in the upper ocean mixed layer
Authors: Hieronymi M. , Macke A. , Zielinski O.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. A Monte Carlo based radiative transfer model has been developed for calculating the availability of solar radiation within the top 100 m of the ocean. The model is optimized for simulations of spatial high resolution downwelling irradiance Ed fluctuations that arise from the lensing effect of waves at the water surface. In a first step the accuracy of simulation results has been verified by measurements of the oceanic underwater light field and through intercomparison with an established radiative transfer model. Secondly the potential depth-impact of nonlinear shaped single waves, from capillary to swell waves, is assessed by considering the most favorable conditions for light focusing, i.e. monochromatic light at 490 nm, very clear oceanic water with a low chlorophyll a content of 0.1 mg m−3 and high sun elevation. Finally light fields below irregular wave profiles accounting for realistic sea states were simulated. Our simulation results suggest that under open ocean conditions light flashes with 50% irradiance enhancements can appear down to 35 m depth, and light variability in the range of ±10% compared to the mean Ed is still possible in 100 m depth.
From Arithmetic Sequences to Linear Equations
Authors: Matsuura Ryota , Harless Patrick
Published: March 2012

Alerting a class to a connection between two familiar topics will help students become more agile with each of them.
Patient-Level Savings on Generic Drugs Through the Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company
Authors: Kouzy Ramez , El Alam Molly B. , Corrigan Kelsey L. , Lalani Hussain S. , Ludmir Ethan B.
Published: June 2024

This economic evaluation estimates the out-of-pocket cost savings patients could achieve if generic drugs were purchased directly from the Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company rather than using their health insurance.
Medical Maximizing Preferences and Beliefs About Cancer Among US Adults
Authors: Chiu Alexander S. , Hoxha Ines , Jensen Catherine B. , Saucke Megan C. , Pitt Susan C.
Published: June 2024

Importance

Medical overutilization contributes to significant health care expenditures and exposes patients to questionably beneficial surgery and unnecessary risk.

Objectives

To understand public attitudes toward medical utilization and the association of these attitudes with beliefs about cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this cross-sectional survey study conducted from August 26 to October 28, 2020, US-based, English-speaking adults were recruited from the general public using Prolific Academic, a research participant platform. Quota-filling was used to obtain a sample demographically representative of the US population. Adults with a personal history of cancer other than nonmelanoma skin cancer were excluded. Statistical analysis was completed in July 2022.

Main Outcome and Measures

Medical utilization preferences were characterized with the validated, single-item Maximizer-Minimizer Elicitation Question. Participants preferring to take action in medically ambiguous situations (hereafter referred to as “maximizers”) were compared with those who leaned toward waiting and seeing (hereafter referred to as “nonmaximizers”). Beliefs and emotions about cancer incidence, survivability, and preventability were assessed using validated measures. Logistic regression modeled factors associated with preferring to maximize medical utilization.

Results

Of 1131 participants (mean [SD] age, 45 [16] years; 568 women [50.2%]), 287 (25.4%) were classified as maximizers, and 844 (74.6%) were classified as nonmaximizers. Logistic regression revealed that self-reporting very good or excellent health status (compared with good, fair, or poor; odds ratio [OR], 2.01 [95% CI, 1.52-2.65]), Black race (compared with White race; OR, 1.88 [95% CI, 1.22-2.89]), high levels of cancer worry (compared with low levels; OR, 1.62 [95% CI, 1.09-2.42]), and overestimating cancer incidence (compared with accurate estimation or underestimating; OR, 1.58 [95% CI, 1.09-2.28]) were significantly associated with maximizing preferences. Those who believed that they personally had a higher-than-average risk of developing cancer were more likely to be maximizers (23.6% [59 of 250] vs 17.4% [131 of 751]; P = .03); this factor was not significant in regression analyses.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this survey study of US adults, those with medical maximizing tendencies more often overestimated the incidence of cancer and had higher levels of cancer-related worry. Targeted and personalized education about cancer and its risk factors may help reduce overutilization of oncologic care.
Intercultural Pragmatics
Authors: Liddicoat Anthony J.
Published: June 2024

Intercultural pragmatics examines how language is used in communication between people who speak different first languages and who have been enculturated into different cultural contexts, but who are communicating in a common language, which may or may not be the first language of some of the participants. In such communication, participants draw on both existing pragmatic norms but also co‐construct new processes and understandings to achieve mutual understanding.
Drugs for diabetes first, then weight loss, now maybe AUD
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: June 2024

Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), a medication for type 2 diabetes that has also been popular with people trying to lose weight because it decreases appetite, has been shown to reduce the desire to drink, which has raised interest in the use of the drug to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD). A recent study, “Associations of semaglutide with incidence and recurrence of alcohol use disorder in real‐world population,” based on 83,825 patients with obesity, has found that these patients reduced their risk of AUD incidence or recurrence by 50%‐56%. The study, published in the May issue of Nature Communications, found that consistent reductions were seen for a 12‐month period. The findings provide evidence of the potential benefit of these drugs, now commonly called weight‐loss drugs, to treat AUD, and the researchers (lead author William Wang, second author Nora D. Volkow, M.D., director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse) have called for clinical trials.
Ultra‐high Capacity and Stable Dual‐ion Batteries with Fast Kinetics Enabled by HOF Supermolecules Derived 3D Nitrogen‐Oxygen Co‐doped Nanocarbon Anodes
Authors: Wu Hongzheng , Yuan Wenhui , Li Li , Gao Xuenong , Zhang Zhengguo , Qian Yong
Published: June 2024

The low capacity, poor cycling life, and rapid self‐discharge hinder the development of carbonaceous dual‐ion batteries (DIBs). Conventional preparations of element doping amorphous carbons are cumbersome, complex, and difficult to control the doping element, content, and size. Here, a nitrogen‐oxygen co‐doped amorphous carbon nanomaterial (NDC) with unique 3D vortex‐layered amorphous structure and high doping content is ingeniously prepared via self‐assembly of hydrogen‐bonded organic framework precursors followed by one‐step pyrolysis, and then used for anodes of DIBs. By pairing with a commercial Nylon separator, a self‐supporting independent graphite cathode, and a high‐concentration electrolyte, the NDC‐based DIBs display an ultra‐high specific discharge capacity of up to 519 mAh g−1 at 1 C, low self‐discharge rate of 0.85% h−1, capacity retention of 98.8% after 1500 cycles, and fast kinetic dynamics. This study offers a novel approach to enable carbonaceous nanomaterials for energy‐dense and long‐cycling DIBs.
A Poly(Ionic Liquid)‐Based Polymer Binder for Endurable Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Lin Xiujing , Liu Xiaxia , Tong Yuqi , Zhou Xinyu , Li Jiang , Song Juan , Feng Xiaomiao , Liu Ruiqing , Shi Li , Yu Aishui , Ma Yanwen
Published: June 2024

Though polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is widely‐used binder for conventional lithium‐sulfur (Li–S) batteries, it still encounters challenges of severe electrode fracture involved by drastic volume change upon repeating cycling, and lack of extended‐functions like trapping dissolved polysulfides and smoothing Li+ transfer. Herein, a methodology of grafting sulfophilic hydrogen‐bond donor and lithiophilic hydrogen‐bond acceptor to the polymer binder (named as PIL), function as gear teethes and tooth spaces, is reported. When cracks occur, the engaged gears driven by dynamic hydrogen bonds are separated, which are spontaneously reformed owing to the automatic meshing of gears, and thus accelerate the healing of cracks. At the molecular level, the synergetic effect of sulfophilic hydrogen‐bond donor and lithiophilic hydrogen‐bond acceptor enables polysulfides immobilization through “push‐pull effect”, facilitating the subsequent redox kinetics. Accordingly, the cross‐link network of hydrogen bonds endows the elaborated designed polymer binder with strong adhesive strength and rapid Li+ migration. Attributed to these beneficial properties, the PIL‐based sulfur cathode exhibits excellent rate performance and superior cycling durability (an ultralow capacity fading rate of 0.062% per cycle over 800 cycles at 2 C). Even with high sulfur loading of 9.27 mg cm−2, a high areal capacity of 8.71 mAh cm−2 can be achieved, verifying its potential application.
In Situ Fabrication of Electrospun Magnetic Film under Laparoscopic Guidance for Preventing Postoperative Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Xiang Luyao , Hu Jinlong , Yan Xu , Yang Huai , Ji Chaofei , Xu Yunjun , Lu Haojie , Lu Chaowei , Hou Qingbing , Song Yonghong , Liu Dongquan , Cao Baoqiang , Lu Yang
Published: June 2024

Despite laparoscopic‐guided minimally invasive hepatectomy emerging as the primary approach for resecting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), there is still a significant gap in suitable biomaterials that seamlessly integrate with these techniques to achieve effective hemostasis and suppress residual tumors at the surgical margin. Electrospun films are increasingly used for wound closure, yet the employment of prefabricated electrospun films for hemostasis during minimally invasive HCC resection is hindered by prolonged operation times, complexity in implementation, limited visibility during surgery, and inadequate postoperative prevention of HCC recurrence. In this study, montmorillonite‐iron oxide sheets are integrated into the polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) polymer framework, enhancing the resulting electrospun PVP/montmorillonite‐iron oxide (MI) film (abbreviated as PMI) with robustness, hemostatic capability, and magnetocaloric properties. In contrast to the in vitro prefabricated electrospun films, the electrospun PMI film is designed to be formed in situ on liver wounds under laparoscopic guidance during hepatectomy. This design affords superior wound adaptability, facilitating meticulous wound closure and expeditious hemostasis, thereby simplifying the operative process and ultimately alleviating the workload of healthcare professionals. Moreover, when exposed to an alternating magnetic field, the film can efficiently ablate residual tumors, significantly augmenting the treatment efficacy of HCC.
Urea Electrosynthesis from Nitrate and CO2 on Diatomic Alloys
Authors: Chen Kai , Ma Danyang , Zhang Ying , Wang Fuzhou , Yang Xing , Wang Xiaomei , Zhang Hu , Liu Xijun , Bao Rui , Chu Ke
Published: June 2024

Urea electrosynthesis from co–electrolysis of NO3
− and CO2 (UENC) offers a promising technology for achieving sustainable and efficient urea production. Herein, a diatomic alloy catalyst (CuPd1Rh1–DAA), with mutually isolated Pd and Rh atoms alloyed on Cu substrate, is theoretically designed and experimentally confirmed to be a highly active and selective UENC catalyst. Combining theoretical computations and operando spectroscopic characterizations reveals the synergistic effect of Pd1–Cu and Rh1–Cu active sites to promote the UENC via a tandem catalysis mechanism, where Pd1–Cu site triggers the early C–N coupling and promotes *CO2NO2–to–*CO2NH steps, while Rh1–Cu site facilitates the subsequent protonation step of *CO2NH2 to *COOHNH2 toward the urea formation. Impressively, CuPd1Rh1–DAA assembled in a flow cell presents the highest urea Faradaic efficiency of 72.1% and urea yield rate of 53.2 mmol h−1 gcat−1 at −0.5 V versus RHE, representing nearly the highest performance among all reported UENC catalysts.
Hsp90 Promotes Gastric Cancer Cell Metastasis and Stemness by Regulating the Regional Distribution of Glycolysis‐Related Metabolic Enzymes in the Cytoplasm
Authors: Liu Shiya , Shen Gaigai , Zhou Xuanyu , Sun Lixin , Yu Long , Cao Yuanting , Shu Xiong , Ran Yuliang
Published: June 2024

Heat‐shock protein 90 (Hsp90) plays a crucial role in tumorigenesis and tumor progression; however, its mechanism of action in gastric cancer (GC) remains unclear. Here, the role of Hsp90 in GC metabolism is the focus of this research. High expression of Hsp90 in GC tissues can interact with glycolysis, collectively affecting prognosis in clinical samples. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate that Hsp90 is able to regulate the migration and stemness properties of GC cells. Metabolic phenotype analyses indicate that Hsp90 influences glycolytic metabolism. Mechanistically, Hsp90 interacts with glycolysis‐related enzymes, forming multienzyme complexes to enhance glycolysis efficiency and yield. Additionally, Hsp90 binds to cytoskeleton‐related proteins, regulating the regional distribution of glycolytic enzymes at the cell margin and lamellar pseudopods. This effect could lead to a local increase in efficient energy supply from glycolysis, further promoting epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis. In summary, Hsp90, through its interaction with metabolic enzymes related to glycolysis, forms multi‐enzyme complexes and regulates regional distribution of glycolysis by dynamic cytoskeletal adjustments, thereby promoting the migration and stemness of GC cells. These conclusions also support the potential for a combined targeted approach involving Hsp90, glycolysis, and the cytoskeleton in clinical therapy.
Epigenetic Reprogramming Potentiates ICAM1 Antibody Drug Conjugates in Preclinical Models of Melanoma
Authors: Zhang Peng , Tao Changjuan , Lu Ye , Li Peijing , Wang Xing , Dai Yujie , Xi Yun , Shimura Takaya , Li Xinfang , Fang Jianmin , Yang Liu , He Dawei , Guo Peng
Published: June 2024

Therapeutic benefits and underlying biomechanism(s) of antibody drug conjugates (ADC) in combination with other targeted therapeutics are largely unknown. Here, the synergy between ADC and epigenetic drug decitabine (DAC), a clinically approved DNA methylation inhibitor, in multiple preclinical models of melanoma specifically investigated. Mechanistically, the underlying biomechanisms of how DAC cooperatively worked with ICAM1 antibody conjugated DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor DXd (I1‐DXd) is elucidated. DAC treatment significantly enhanced anti‐tumor efficacy of I1‐DXd by upregulating antigen expression, enhancing antibody internalization and potentiating tumor sensitivity by epigenetically reprogramming of melanoma. Meanwhile, I1‐DXd/DAC combination also exerted regulatory effects on tumor microenvironment (TME) by enhancing tumor infiltration of innate and adaptive immune cells and improving penetration of ADCs with a boosted antitumor immunity. This study provides a rational ADC combination strategy for solid tumor treatment.
Consistent Intraocular Pressure Reduction by Solid Drug Nanoparticles in Fixed Combinations for Glaucoma Therapy
Authors: Huang Da , Norat Pedro , Qi Lin , Chernatynskaya Anna , Cole James D. , Mani Vimalin Jeyalatha , Xu Lei , Liu Xiaorong , Yang Hu
Published: June 2024

Efficient topical drug delivery remains a significant challenge in glaucoma management. Although nanoparticle formulations offer considerable promise, their complex preparation processes, co‐delivery issues, and batch consistency have hindered their potential. A scalable fabrication strategy is developed here for preparing solid drug nanoparticles (SDNs) with enhanced drug delivery efficiency. Utilizing hydrophobic antiglaucoma drugs brimonidine (BM) and betaxolol (BX), uniform fixed combination BM/BX SDNs are fabricated through a continuous process, improving batch‐to‐batch consistency for combined glaucoma treatment. With trehalose being used as a lyoprotectant, BM/BX SDNs can be stored as dry powder and easily reconstituted in phosphate buffered saline. Importantly, reconstituted BM/BX SDNs form clear, homogenous solutions, and exhibit negligible cytotoxicity and irritation, making them well‐suited for topical administration as eyedrops. Ex vivo and in vivo studies demonstrated that topically applied BM/BX SDNs permeate through the cornea significantly (about two fold to three fold) compared to their hydrophilic counterparts, i.e., brimonidine tartrate, and betaxolol hydrogen chloride. Notably, BM/BX SDNs displayed consistent intraocular pressure lowering effects in vivo in both normotensive rats and glaucoma mice. Collectively, this study demonstrates the potential of the scalable fabrication strategy and the resultant BM/BX SDNs for improving glaucoma management through eyedrops.
Hierarchically Assembled Gigantic Fe/Co Cyanometallate Clusters Exhibiting Electron Transfer Behavior Above Room Temperature
Authors: Chen Zi‐Yi , Xie Kai‐Ping , Cheng Yue , Deng Yi‐Fei , Zhang Yuan‐Zhu
Published: June 2024

The construction of large and complex supramolecular architectures through self‐assembly is at the forefront of contemporary coordination chemistry. Notwithstanding great success in various systems using anionic bridges (e.g., O2− or S2−) or organic ligands (e.g., pyridine or carboxylate ligands), the assembly of large cyanide‐bridged clusters with increasing nuclearity remains a formidable synthetic challenge. In this study, it is achieved in preparing two heterometallic cyanometallate clusters with unprecedented complexity, [Fe20Co20] (1) and [Fe12Co15] (2), by creating the “flexibility” through a versatile ligand of bis((1H‐imidazol‐4‐yl)methylene)hydrazine (H2L) and low‐coordinate cobalt. Complex 1 features a super‐square array of four cyanide‐bridged [Fe4Co4] cube subunits as the corners that are interconnected by four additional [FeCo] units, resulting in a torus‐shaped architecture. Complex 2 contains a lantern‐like core‐shell cluster with a triple‐helix kernel of [Co3L3] enveloped by a [Fe12Co12] shell. The combined structure analysis and mass spectrometry study reveal a hierarchical assembly mechanism, which sheds new light on constructing cyanometallate nanoclusters with atomic precision. Moreover, complex 1 undergoes a thermally induced electron‐transfer‐coupled spin transition (ETCST) between the diamagnetic {FeIILS(µ‐CN)CoIIILS} and paramagnetic {FeIIILS(µ‐CN)CoIIHS} configurations (LS = low spin, HS = high spin) above room temperature, representing the largest molecule displaying electron transfer and spin transition characteristic.
Astaxanthin Alleviates Autoimmune Hepatitis by Modulating CD8+ T Cells: Insights From Mass Cytometry and Single‐Cell RNA Sequencing Analyses
Authors: He Yuting , Ding Mingjie , Zhang Jiakai , Huang Changjun , Shi Jihua , Wang Yun , Tao Ruolin , Wu Zeyu , Guo Wenzhi
Published: June 2024

Astaxanthin (ASX) is an oxygen‐containing non‐vitamin A carotenoid pigment. However, the role of ASX in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) remains unclear. In this study, a mouse model of AIH is established induced by concanavalin A (ConA). Mass cytometry and single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) are used to analyze the potential role of ASX in regulating the immune microenvironment of AIH. ASX treatment effectively alleviated liver damage induced by ConA and downregulated pro‐inflammatory cytokines production in mice. Mass cytometry and scRNA‐seq analyses revealed a significant increase in the number of CD8+ T cells following ASX treatment. Functional markers of CD8+ T cells, such as CD69, MHC II, and PD‐1, are significantly downregulated. Additionally, specific CD8+ T cell subclusters (subclusters 4, 13, 24, and 27) are identified, each displaying distinct changes in marker gene expression after ASX treatment. This finding suggests a modulation of CD8+ T cell function by ASX. Finally, the key transcription factors for four subclusters of CD8+ T cells are predicted and constructed a cell‐to‐cell communication network based on receptor‐ligand interactions probability. In conclusion, ASX holds the potential to ameliorate liver damage by regulating the number and function of CD8+ T cells.
Right On Time: Ultrafast Charge Separation Before Hybrid Exciton Formation
Authors: Gierster Lukas , Turkina Olga , Deinert Jan‐Christoph , Vempati Sesha , Baeta Elsie , Garmshausen Yves , Hecht Stefan , Draxl Claudia , Stähler Julia
Published: June 2024

Organic/inorganic hybrid systems offer great potential for novel solar cell design combining the tunability of organic chromophore absorption properties with high charge carrier mobilities of inorganic semiconductors. However, often such material combinations do not show the expected performance: while ZnO, for example, basically exhibits all necessary properties for a successful application in light‐harvesting, it was clearly outpaced by TiO2 in terms of charge separation efficiency. The origin of this deficiency has long been debated. This study employs femtosecond time‐resolved photoelectron spectroscopy and many‐body ab initio calculations to identify and quantify all elementary steps leading to the suppression of charge separation at an exemplary organic/ZnO interface. It is demonstrated that charge separation indeed occurs efficiently on ultrafast (350 fs) timescales, but that electrons are recaptured at the interface on a 100 ps timescale and subsequently trapped in a strongly bound (0.7 eV) hybrid exciton state with a lifetime exceeding 5 µs. Thus, initially successful charge separation is followed by delayed electron capture at the interface, leading to apparently low charge separation efficiencies. This finding provides a sufficiently large time frame for counter‐measures in device design to successfully implement specifically ZnO and, moreover, invites material scientists to revisit charge separation in various kinds of previously discarded hybrid systems.
Isolation and evaluation of local microalgal isolates as feed for larval rearing of Crassostrea tulipa towards optimisation of mangrove oyster seed production in Ghana
Authors: Krampah Eric Appiah , Mensah Paul Kojo , Acheampong Emmanuel , Obodai Edward Adzesiwor
Published: June 2024

This study explored the potential of three local microalgal isolates as feed for oyster larvae in laboratory‐rearing experiments, towards the optimisation of seed production of Crassostrea tulipa to support its large‐scale farming along the West African coast. Three species of local microalgae—Rhodomonas sp., Nannochloropsis sp. and Pseudanabaena sp.—were isolated from waters off the coast of Ghana, West Africa, following a serial dilution technique. The growth performance of the isolates was assessed in the laboratory through daily estimation of cell density until the stationary phase was observed. Characterisation of the microalgal isolates was carried out by estimation of their biovolume, carbon content and energy content. Biovolumes of the microalgae were calculated from the estimated equivalent spherical diameters using proposed geometric shapes and formulae. Carbon weight and carbon energy content were subsequently calculated using derived conversions. The three microalgal isolates showed potential for large‐scale cultivation in the laboratory with marked differences in daily increases in cell densities. Nannochloropsis sp. and Rhodomonas sp. recorded the highest and the lowest peak densities of 2.4 × 105 and 1.5 × 105 cell mL−1, respectively, from an initial inoculating cell density of 1.05 × 105 cell mL−1. The estimated mean biovolumes of Rhodomonas sp., Nannochloropsis sp. and Pseudanabaena sp. were 238.9, 8.182 and 42.42 µm3, respectively, and the corresponding derived carbon energy contents were 1.7 × 10−6, 7.13 × 10−8 and 1.05 × 10−7 J, respectively. Results from a laboratory rearing experiment indicated that the individual microalgal isolates supported the growth and survival of oyster larvae at different scales, but a mixed diet of the three promoted superior growth and survival of C. tulipa larvae. The three local microalgal isolates‐ Rhodomonas sp., Nannochloropsis sp., and Pseudanabaena sp.‐ were well adapted to laboratory culture conditions, and the observed differences in growth and survival of the oyster larvae fed on these algal diets could be due to the differences in diet properties and biochemical compositions of the different species. A combination of the three algal diets, however, provided complementaery nutrients for the optimal growth and survival of C. tulipa larvae. The outcome of this study shows that local microalgal isolates have the potential to support hatchery rearing of C. tulipa, which is essential for the development of commercial mangrove oyster aquaculture in West Africa.
The original scores of traditional Chinese medicine constitutions are risk and diagnostic factors in middle‐aged and older adults with sarcopenia
Authors: Nie Xin , Wang Chi , Zhang He , Liu Qianhui , Hou Lisha , Deng Yiping , Ye Wenbin , Yue Jirong , He Yong
Published: June 2024

Objective

Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome that occurs with age and is characterized by a gradual decline in muscle mass, power, and functionality. It serves as a prominent contributor to frailty, disability, and mortality among older individuals. Currently, no standardized global guidelines exist for the diagnosis of sarcopenia. This study aimed to establish the correlation between sarcopenia and the constitutions of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), considering the connection between physical functioning and sarcopenia.

Methods

A total of 1441 participants in this study were diagnosed with sarcopenia. The Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) proposed a sarcopenia definition algorithm. To determine the constitution of each participant, classification and determination standards were used in traditional Chinese medicine. This study evaluated the demographics, lifestyles, and self‐reported medical history of individuals diagnosed with sarcopenia through a self‐administered questionnaire. The constitution of the participants was determined using TCM classification and determination standards. Subsequently, we analyzed the results of univariate analysis and multivariate regression and constructed a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

Participants who were diagnosed with sarcopenia had substantially lower original Neutral constitution scores (P < 0.050). In comparison to those without sarcopenia, individuals with sarcopenia exhibited notably elevated original Qi‐deficiency, Yang‐deficiency, Yin‐deficiency, Blood‐stagnation, and Qi‐stagnation scores in contrast to those in the healthy group (P < 0.050). The identified risk factors associated with sarcopenia included the following: Neutral (OR = 0.903), Qi‐deficiency (in males, OR = 1.126), Yang‐deficiency (OR = 1.062), Phlegm‐dampness (in males, OR = 0.833), and Blood‐stagnation (in females, OR = 1.089). The highest area under the curve (AUC) was observed for the original neutral constitution score, followed by the Yang‐deficiency and blood‐stagnation scores (0.644, 0.613, and 0.611, respectively). Additionally, the AUC for the combined original scores of all nine constitutions among males reached 0.778.

Conclusions

In this cross‐sectional study of older people with higher original Qi‐deficiency, Yin deficiency, Yang‐deficiency, Blood‐stagnation, and Qi‐stagnation were associated with sarcopenia. Notably, various TCM constitutions are significantly linked to sarcopenia. There was a significant occurrence of various body constitution types among individuals diagnosed with sarcopenia. The mixture of the nine original constitution scores exhibited good diagnostic performance for sarcopenia in males.
Mechanism and kinetic modeling study on the crystallization of concomitant polymorphs
Authors: Li Si , Wang Zhixuan , Zhang Mingtao , Zhou Lina , Tang Weiwei , Gong Junbo
Published: June 2024

Concomitant polymorphs routinely observed in fine chemical industry could impact product purity and consistency; however, both molecular mechanism and process kinetics of concomitant crystallization remain elusive. Herein, we developed a population balance model to understand process kinetics of concomitantly dipolymorphic crystallization using DL‐methionine as a model compound. Kinetic parameters were estimated from induction time measurements and unseeded crystallization experiments. Experimental and simulation results demonstrate that the stable β form has a comparable nucleation rate with α form thanks to their close nucleation barrier leading to the concurrent nucleation. Several solution chemistry techniques were utilized to examine the speciation of solute molecules, together revealing the solutes' self‐association and the formation of micelle‐like aggregates driven by hydrophobic interactions, not hydrogen bonds. These aggregates show dynamic nature against conventional thoughts of classical nucleation kinetics. Finally, the molecular mechanism of concomitant crystallization was uncovered and the implications for polymorph selection and control were discussed.
Photoinduced Group Transposition via Iridium‐Nitrenoid Leading to Amidative Inner‐Sphere Aryl Migration
Authors: Jung Hoimin , Choi Jungkweon , Kim Daniel , Lee Jeong Hoon , Ihee Hyotcherl , Kim Dongwook , Chang Sukbok
Published: June 2024

We herein report a fundamental mechanistic investigation into photochemical metal‐nitrenoid generation and inner‐sphere transposition reactivity using organometallic photoprecursors. By designing Cp*Ir(hydroxamate)(Ar) complexes, we induced photo‐initiated ligand activation, allowing us to explore the amidative σ(Ir–aryl) migration reactivity. A combination of experimental mechanistic studies, femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that the metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer enables the σ(N−O) cleavage, followed by Ir‐acylnitrenoid generation. The final inner‐sphere σ(Ir–aryl) group migration results in a net amidative group transposition.
DNA Nanotechnology Targeting Mitochondria: From Subcellular Molecular Imaging to Tailor‐Made Therapeutics
Authors: Yu Fangzhi , Li Xiangfei , Sheng Chuangui , Li Lele
Published: June 2024

Mitochondria, one of the most important organelles, represent a crucial subcellular target for fundamental research and biomedical applications. Despite significant advances in the design of DNA nanotechnologies for a variety of bio‐applications, the dearth of strategies that enable mitochondria targeting for subcellular molecular imaging and therapy remains an outstanding challenge in this field. In this Minireview, we summarize the recent progresses on the emerging design and application of DNA nanotechnology for mitochondria‐targeted molecular imaging and tumor treatment. We first highlight the engineering of mitochondria‐localized DNA nanosensors for in situ detection and imaging of diverse key molecules that are essential to maintain mitochondrial functions, including mitochondrial DNA and microRNA, enzymes, small molecules, and metal ions. Then, we compile the developments of DNA nanotechnologies for mitochondria‐targeted anti‐tumor therapy, including modularly designed DNA nanodevices for subcellular delivery of therapeutic agents, and programmed DNA assembly for mitochondrial interference. We will place an emphasis on clarification of the chemical principles of how DNA nanobiotechnology can be designed to target mitochondria for various biomedical applications. Finally, the remaining challenges and future directions in this emerging field will be discussed, hoping to inspire further development of advanced DNA toolkits for both academic and clinical research regarding mitochondria.
Bilateral Chemical Linking at NiOx Buried Interface Enables Efficient and Stable Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells and Modules
Authors: Yang Yang , Chen Ruihao , Wu Jiandong , Dai Zhiyuan , Luo Chuanyao , Fang Zhiyu , Wan Shuyuan , Chao Lingfeng , Liu Zhe , Wang Hongqiang
Published: June 2024

Inverted NiOx‐based perovskite solar cells (PSCs) exhibit considerable potential because of their low‐temperature processing and outstanding excellent stability, while is challenged by the carriers transfer at buried interface owing to the inherent low carrier mobility and abundant surface defects that directly deteriorates the overall device fill factor. Present work demonstrates a chemical linker with the capability of simultaneously grasping NiOx and perovskite crystals by forming a Ni−S−Pb bridge at buried interface to significantly boost the carriers transfer, based on a rationally selected molecule of 1,3‐dimethyl‐benzoimidazol‐2‐thione (NCS). The constructed buried interface not only reduces the pinholes and needle‐like residual PbI2 at the buried interface, but also deepens the work function and valence band maximum positions of NiOx, resulting in a smaller VBM offset between NiOx and perovskite film. Consequently, the modulated PSCs achieved a high fill factor up to 86.24 %, which is as far as we know the highest value in records of NiOx‐based inverted PSCs. The NCS custom‐tailored PSCs and minimodules (active area of 18 cm2) exhibited a champion efficiency of 25.05 % and 21.16 %, respectively. The unencapsulated devices remains over 90 % of their initial efficiency at maximum power point under continuous illumination for 1700 hours.
Hierarchical Solid‐Additive Strategy for Achieving Layer‐by‐Layer Organic Solar Cells with Over 19 % Efficiency
Authors: Chen Qiaoling , Bian Ziqing , Yang Yujie , Cui Xinyue , Jeffreys Charles , Xu Xinjun , Li Wenhua , Liu Yuqiang , Heeney Martin , Bo Zhishan
Published: June 2024

Layer‐by‐layer (LbL) deposition of active layers in organic solar cells (OSCs) offers immense potential for optimizing performance through precise tailoring of each layer. However, achieving high‐performance LbL OSCs with distinct solid additives in each layer remains challenging. In this study, we explore a novel approach that strategically incorporates different solid additives into specific layers of LbL devices. To this end, we introduce FeCl3 into the lower donor (D18) layer as a p‐type dopant to enhance hole concentration and mobility. Concurrently, we incorporate the wide‐band gap conjugated polymer poly(9,9‐di‐n‐octylfluorenyl‐2,7‐diyl) (PFO) into the upper acceptor (L8‐BO) layer to improve the morphology and prolong exciton lifetime. Unlike previous studies, our approach combines these two strategies to achieve higher and more balanced electron and hole mobility without affecting device open‐circuit voltage, while also suppressing charge recombination. Consequently, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the D18+FeCl3/L8‐BO device increases to 18.12 %, while the D18/L8‐BO+PFO device attains a PCE of 18.79 %. These values represent substantial improvements over the control device′s PCE of 17.59 %. Notably, when both FeCl3 and PFO are incorporated, the D18+FeCl3/L8‐BO+PFO device achieves a remarkable PCE of 19.17 %. In summary, our research results demonstrate the effectiveness of the layered solid additive strategy in improving OSC performance.
A Redox‐Active Phenothiazine‐based Pd2L4‐Type Coordination Cage and Its Isolable Crystalline Polyradical Cations
Authors: Huang Bin , Zhou Manfei , Hong Qiong‐Yan , Wu Meng‐Xiang , Zhao Xiao‐Li , Xu Lin , Gao En‐Qing , Yang Hai‐Bo , Shi Xueliang
Published: June 2024

Polyradical cages are of great interest because they show very fascinating physical and chemical properties, but many challenges remain, especially for their synthesis and characterization. Herein, we present the synthesis of a polyradical cation cage 14⋅+ through post‐synthetic oxidation of a redox‐active phenothiazine‐based Pd2L4‐type coordination cage 1. It′s worth noting that 1 exhibits excellent reversible electrochemical and chemical redox activity due to the introduction of a bulky 3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐methoxyphenyl substituent. The generation of 14⋅+ through reversible electrochemical oxidation is investigated by in situ UV/Vis‐NIR and EPR spectroelectrochemistry. Meanwhile, chemical oxidation of 1 can also produce 14⋅+ which can be reversibly reduced back to the original cage 1, and the process is monitored by EPR and NMR spectroscopies. Eventually, we succeed in the isolation and single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis of 14⋅+, whose electronic structure and conformation are distinct to original 1. The magnetic susceptibility measurements indicate the predominantly antiferromagnetic interactions between the four phenothiazine radical cations in 14⋅+. We believe that our study including the facile synthesis methodology and in situ spectroelectrochemistry will shed some light on the synthesis and characterization of novel polyradical systems, opening more perspectives for developing functional supramolecular cages.
Growth and longevity of the endangered freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera): Implications for conservation and management
Authors: Nykänen Sabrina , Taskinen Jouni , Hajisafarali Mahsa , Kuparinen Anna
Published: June 2024

Key life‐history data, such as growth and age, are necessary to effectively manage and conserve threatened freshwater mussel species. Traditionally growth and age studies require large yet destructive sample sizes covering all age classes. Such methods pose a risk to populations of conservation concern, and therefore, alternative methods that need only limited sample sizes are necessitated to prevent further threats to such populations. We applied retrospective shell growth at age reconstructions to 98 critically endangered freshwater pearl mussel (FPM) individuals from 34 populations across Finland and Sweden, enabling the use of extremely small sample sizes (n = 1–6 per population). We compared the performance of six different growth models with the reconstructed size‐at‐age data across FPM juvenile (<20 years old) and adult life stages. The growth reconstruction model showed reasonable skill in reconstructing FPM growth patterns. The von Bertalanffy model showed to be a good general descriptor of growth for FPM, but it systematically underestimated the asymptotic size. The power law model was the most accurate in estimating juvenile growth (lowest deviances from the size‐at‐age data). FPM showed great variability in longevity (Amax = 54–254 years) and growth constant k (0.018–0.057 year−1). Our results show that reasonable estimates of growth can be attained even when sample sizes are extremely limited. The results can be further applied to gain knowledge on the population's age structure, size at maturation, and recovery potential. The methodology is applicable to other freshwater mussel species of conservation concern.
Valorization of spent coffee ground by mixing with various types of residual biomass for pellet production: evaluation of solid biofuel properties at different mixtures
Authors: Kougioumtzis Michael A. , Filippou Vasileios , Rontogianni Anatoli , Karampinis Emmanouil , Grammelis Panagiotis , Kakaras Emmanouel
Published: June 2024

Coffee consumption is a daily habit for the majority of people worldwide, resulting in consistently large amounts of residue. Spent coffee ground (SCG) is the residue obtained during the brewing process. It represents an abundant source of energy biomass, or raw material for added value products but it is still largely unexploited. This residue may find several applications, such as in polymers/composites precursors, solid/liquid biofuels, biofertilizers, and so forth. The aim of the present paper was the pilot production of pellets by mixing SCG and other residual biomass feedstock. Coffee residues were mixed at different ratios (0, 10, 30, 50, 70, 90 wt%) together with: (i) forestry residues; (ii) sawmill residues; (iii) urban prunings; (iv) maize residues; (v) peach prunings; and (vi) miscanthus. Samples of each fuel mixture were analyzed at the Solid Fuels Laboratory of CPERI/CERTH (Chemical Process and Energy Resources Institute/Centre for Research and Technology Hellas) in Greece by applying established standards. The results of the analyses show that the mixing of biomass residues with coffee could result in competitive solid biofuels. More specifically, pellets with up to 10% coffee residues, mixed with sawmill residues, complied with the class A2 limits set by the international standard ISO 17225‐2 for wood pellets, and pellets with up to 30% coffee residues complied with the class B limits for wood pellets for commercial/residential applications. Urban prunings mixed with 10 wt% coffee residues are within the limits set for class B wood pellets.
Culture‐acquired genetic variation in human pluripotent stem cells: Twenty years on
Authors: Vales John P. , Barbaric Ivana
Published: June 2024

Genetic changes arising in human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC) upon culture may bestow unwanted or detrimental phenotypes to cells, thus potentially impacting on the applications of hPSCs for clinical use and basic research. In the 20 years since the first report of culture‐acquired genetic aberrations in hPSCs, a characteristic spectrum of recurrent aberrations has emerged. The preponderance of such aberrations implies that they provide a selective growth advantage to hPSCs upon expansion. However, understanding the consequences of culture‐acquired variants for specific applications in cell therapy or research has been more elusive. The rapid progress of hPSC‐based therapies to clinics is galvanizing the field to address this uncertainty and provide definitive ways both for risk assessment of variants and reducing their prevalence in culture. Here, we aim to provide a timely update on almost 20 years of research on this fascinating, but a still unresolved and concerning, phenomenon.
Synthesis and characterization of Mo and W compounds for disulfide materials
Authors: Shin Sunyoung , Yeo Seongmin , Yeo So Jeong , Chung Taek‐Mo , Kim Chang Gyoun , Park Bo Keun
Published: June 2024

MoS2 and WS2 are spotlighted as fungible materials of graphene that can be used in electronic devices owing to being semiconductors with indirect and direct band gaps. Precursors (Mo(NtBu)2(StBu)2 (1), W(NtBu)2(StBu)2 (2)) suitable for the deposition of these materials were synthesized and characterized. The molecular structures of 1 and 2 exhibit a tetrahedral geometry according to single‐crystal x‐ray crystallography. Thermogravimetric analyses of 1 and 2 showed two‐step weight loss. The residues from each step of 1 were MoS3 and MoS2, and these results were consistent with the subsequent deposition results of 1. We successfully established a PEALD‐MoS2 process using 1 and H2S plasma as the precursor and reactant, respectively, at relatively low temperatures of 150–300 °C without any post‐sulfurization process. A temperature‐dependent selective deposition of MoSx phases was observed with the growth of amorphous MoS3 films (150–200 °C), and crystalline MoS2 films (250–350 °C).
The relationships between the multidimensional planned behavior model, green brand awareness, green marketing activities, and purchase intention
Authors: Baltaci Duygu Çinar , Durmaz Yakup , Baltaci Furkan
Published: June 2024

Introduction

This study investigates the determinants impacting consumer purchasing behavior.

Methods

Utilizing multidimensional planned behavior theory alongside measures of brand awareness and green brand awareness, this study examines the mediating role of multidimensional planned behavior theory. Empirical data were gathered through a survey conducted among Generation Z university students, yielding 638 responses. Analysis was performed on 590 valid responses.

Results

Findings indicate that green marketing initiatives and green brand awareness positively influence consumers’ purchase intentions. Subdimensions of the theory of planned behavior (TPB), namely, attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control, serve to strengthen these relationships and mediate the interaction process.

Conclusion

This study contributes novel insights to the burgeoning field of green marketing literature, offering a structural model for firms and policymakers. It suggests that companies can effectively engage in informal consumer education through green marketing efforts, thereby influencing consumers’ purchasing decisions via planned behavior. Moreover, such activities foster an increase in consumers’ green brand awareness, providing companies with an opportunity to promote conscious consumer behavior. The study's utilization of the TPB is both timely and original, particularly in its alignment with the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.