bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Predictive Model for Neutropenia Associated with Cancer Chemotherapy
Authors: Lyman Gary H.
Published: June 2004

Studies of primary prophylaxis of febrile neutropenia (FN) with recombinant human granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (rHu‐G‐CSF, filgrastim) administered to all patients starting their initial course of chemotherapy have demonstrated clinical effectiveness and an economic advantage in a wide range of settings. A recent meta‐analysis confirmed the ability of filgrastim to reduce the risk of FN and documented infection in a variety of malignancies in both adults and children. The threshold risk for FN at which a cost saving is achieved by using filgrastim is inversely related to the daily cost of the drug and duration of hospitalization. Clinical practice guidelines for the use of filgrastim were developed based on these observations. Recent studies incorporating indirect institutional costs demonstrated that a cost saving can be achieved at substantially lower FN risk thresholds than previously estimated. Despite the demonstrated efficacy of filgrastim in primary prophylaxis, its value may be further increased by appropriately selecting patients and better understanding the importance of sustaining dose intensity in specific malignancies. Clinical prediction models capable of identifying individuals at high risk for neutropenic complications yield further reductions in FN risk thresholds and treatment costs in patients receiving cancer chemotherapy. These models also may be used to evaluate the cost‐effectiveness or cost‐efficiency of filgrastim. A clinical prediction model recently was presented and validated incorporating both baseline clinical characteristics as well as the results of the first cycle of chemotherapy in patients with early‐stage breast cancer. A cost‐effectiveness ratio of $34,297/year of life saved was estimated based on dose‐response assumptions derived from a previously reported adjuvant breast cancer trial studying the impact of dose reduction on disease‐free survival. The cost‐effectiveness of filgrastim was evident over a wide range of clinical and cost assumptions. Clinical prediction models permit the rational and cost‐effective identification of patients for filgrastim support. Existing clinical practice guidelines should be reevaluated in light of new information available on both the total costs associated with FN as well as the cost‐effectiveness of these agents in patients receiving chemotherapy for sensitive and potentially curable malignancies.
Economic and Humanistic Impact of Adverse Events Associated with CSFs
Authors: Gibson Gene A.
Published: June 2004

The current economic health care environment is causing considerable challenges for hospital pharmacy. As pharmacy managers attempt to deal with managing the costs associated with pharmaceuticals, there is considerable pressure to account for the clinical outcomes associated with drug therapy. Particularly in cancer treatment as high‐cost biopharmaceuticals have infiltrated the care of these patients, pharmacy managers must account for reimbursement issues, clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction and demands, budgetary costs, and appropriate use of costly resources. Consequently, mangers need to develop strategies to address these concerns. Ideally, pharmacoeconomics should be used to incorporate the costs of clinical outcomes and drug costs into the overall evaluation of drug therapy. Unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, the practical application of pharmacoeconomics is not universally employed and, as a result, most evaluations rely on only drug costs. A method to assess the economic impact of clinical outcomes associated with adverse drug events and cancer chemotherapy is described.
Variability in Activity of Hepatic CYP3A4 in Patients Infected with HIV
Authors: Slain Douglas , Pakyz Amy , Israel Debra S. , Monroe Sara , Polk Ron E.
Published: June 2004

Study Objectives. To evaluate hepatic cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 activity in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) using the erythromycin breath test (ERMBT), and to examine the relationship of the ERMBT to plasma concentrations of indinavir and nelfinavir.

Design. Prospective observational study.

Setting. University infectious diseases clinic.

Subjects. Thirty‐nine HIV‐positive patients and 47 healthy controls.

Intervention. After the ERMBT in patients and controls, 25 patients received indinavir or nelfinavir.

Measurements and Main Results. Compared with controls, ERMBT variability was significantly greater in HIV‐positive patients, including a subset of 19 patients receiving no concurrent drugs reported to alter CYP3A4 activity. Correlation between the ERMBT and first‐dose plasma indinavir concentrations nearly reached statistical significance (p=0.07).

Conclusion. Variability in hepatic activity of CYP3A4 in HIV‐positive patients may be greater than in controls and may explain some between‐subject variability in plasma concentrations of indinavir. However, clearance mechanisms for protease inhibitors are complex, and if it is important to assess systemic exposure, the ERMBT is not a substitute for direct measurement of plasma concentrations.
Cost‐Minimization Analysis of Phenytoin and Fosphenytoin in the Emergency Department
Authors: Touchette Daniel R. , Rhoney Denise H.
Published: June 2004

Study Objective. To determine the value of fosphenytoin compared with phenytoin for treating patients admitted to an emergency department following a seizure.

Design. Cost‐minimization analysis performed from a hospital perspective.

Setting. Hospital emergency department.

Patients. Two hundred fifty‐six patients participating in a comparative clinical trial.

Intervention. Estimation of adverse event rates and resource use.

Measurements and Main Results. In our base case, phenytoin was the preferred option, with an expected total treatment cost of $5.39 compared with $110.14 for fosphenytoin. One‐way sensitivity analyses showed that the frequency and cost of treating purple glove syndrome (PGS) possibly could affect the decision. Monte Carlo simulation showed phenytoin to be the preferred option 97.3% of the time.

Conclusion. When variable costs of care are used to calculate the value of phenytoin compared with fosphenytoin in the emergency department, phenytoin is preferred. The decision to administer phenytoin was very robust and changed only when both the frequency and cost of PGS was high.
A New Ciprofloxacin Stepdown Program in the Treatment of High‐Risk Febrile Neutropenia: A Clinical and Economic Analysis
Authors: Marra Carlo A. , Frighetto Luciana , Quaia Carlo B. , de Lemos Mario L. , Warkentin Dawn, I. , Marra Fawziah. , Jewesson Peter J.
Published: June 2004

Study Objective. To determine treatment outcomes and economic impact of a ciprofloxacin stepdown program for high‐risk febrile neutropenic adults from the hospital's perspective.

Design. Unblinded, two‐phase, single‐center study.

Setting. Adult leukemia and stem cell transplant unit.

Patients. High‐risk adults with febrile neutropenia.

Intervention. Two conditions were analyzed: a multidisciplinary ciprofloxacin stepdown program involving a reduction in parenteral ciprofloxacin dose from 400 to 200 mg (i.v.‐i.v.) and conversion to oral ciprofloxacin (i.v.‐p.o.) when criteria were met; and no i.v.‐i.v. stepdown program.

Measurements and Main Results. Forty‐six sequential treatment courses were compared with 42 treatment course from 6‐month periods in preintervention (P1) and postintervention (P2) phases. Assessed parameters were clinical and microbiologic outcomes, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and direct medical resource use and costs (1998 $Canadian) for the episode of febrile neutropenia. A decision analytic model was used to map probabilities and costs and to conduct sensitivity analyses. To supplement standard statistical testing, 1000 bootstrap samples were created, and the mean cost difference was calculated between phases for each sample. Patient demographics, percentage i.v.‐p.o. stepdown, and duration of therapy were similar between phases. Clinical success (83% P1, 81% P2), microbiologic eradication (15% P1, 24% P2), and possible ADRs (6% P1, 9% P2) did not differ. Intravenous‐to‐intravenous dose stepdown occurred in 33% of P2 and no P1 treatment courses (p<0.001). Resource use and costs were similar between phases, although a reduction was seen in the drug's mean total cost/day ($58 P1, $52 P2, p=0.04). There was also a trend toward a decrease in mean total treatment costs ($4843 P1, $3493 P2, p=0.08). In 1000 bootstrap samples, 99.8% showed a cost advantage for P2. The model was robust to sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion. This intervention influenced administration of ciprofloxacin without apparent compromise of patient outcomes and resulted in a reduction in total costs of treating febrile neutropenia.
Safety and Efficacy of Oxcarbazepine: Results of Randomized, Double‐Blind Trials
Authors: Beydoun Ahmad
Published: June 2004

Oxcarbazepine is approved as monotherapy and adjunctive therapy for partial seizures with and without secondarily generalized seizures in adults and as adjunctive therapy for partial‐onset seizures in children aged 4–16 years. The clinical development of oxcarbazepine is different from the newer antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in the extent and concordance of results across clinical trials. The safety and efficacy of oxcarbazepine was evaluated in adjunctive therapy trials, in comparative monotherapy trials with classic AEDs in adults and children with newly diagnosed epilepsy, in monotherapy therapeutic failure design trials in patients with refractory partial seizures, and in trigeminal neuralgia and affective disorder. The results of oxcarbazepine in treating epilepsy are discussed.
Special Considerations for Women with Epilepsy
Authors: Yerby Mark S.
Published: June 2004

Women with epilepsy present health care providers with unique problems and opportunities for advancement of care. The fundamentals of epileptic pathophysiology are similar in both sexes. There are, however, some significant differences. Cosmetic effects of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) may have different implications for women. Women who have seizures associated with their menstrual cycle may need special attention regarding their cyclic hormonal changes and AED selection. Antiepileptic drugs may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraception. Women with epilepsy have higher rates of infertility and an increased prevalence of reproductive and endocrine disorders. The majority of women with epilepsy have normal, healthy children, but their pregnancies are considered high risk due to an increase in seizure frequency, metabolic alterations of AEDs (which complicate management), and an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. These issues and an approach to optimize the management of women with epilepsy are discussed.
Special Considerations in Treating Children with Epilepsy
Authors: Moshé Solomon L.
Published: June 2004

The incidence of seizures is high in infants and children. Many epileptic syndromes have their onset early in life. The increase in seizure susceptibility of the immature brain may be due to several factors, including an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory processes, age‐specific differences in ionic transport and clearance systems, high incidence of epileptogenic stimuli early in life, and the age‐specific expression of pre‐ and perinatal brain anomalies. All of these factors must be taken into account when developing safe and effective age‐specific antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). The use of developmental epilepsy models, followed by clinical trials in children, may help identify such AEDs.
Current Discoveries on the Cognitive Effects of Antiepileptic Drugs
Authors: Meador Kimford J.
Published: June 2004

The cognitive effects of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are of particular concern to clinicians because these drugs are the primary therapeutic modality for managing epilepsy. In general, the cognitive effects of most AEDs are modest and offset by their benefit in reducing seizures. Nonetheless, the cognitive effects of a particular AED may be clinically significant when treating specific patient populations, such as children and the elderly.
Resolving signal drift in the wall‐mounted camera of the RGSC system
Authors: Park Jeonghoon , Gagneur Justin D. , Chungbin Suzanne J. , Rong Yi , Lim Seng Boh , Chan Maria F.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To present a modified calibration method to reduce signal drift due to table sagging in Respiratory Gating for Scanner (RGSC) systems with a wall‐mounted camera.

Materials and Methods

Approximately 70 kg of solid water phantoms were evenly distributed on the CT couch, mimicking the patient's weight. New calibration measurements were performed at 9 points at the combination of three lateral positions, the CT isocenter and ±10 cm laterally from the isocenter, and three longitudinal locations, the CT isocenter and ±30 cm or ±40 cm from the isocenter. The new calibration was tested in two hospitals.

Results

Implementing the new weighed calibration method at the extended distance yielded improved results during the DIBH scan, reducing the drift to within 1 from 3 mm. The extended calibration positions exhibited similarly reduced drift in both hospitals, reinforcing the method's robustness and its potential applicability across all centers.

Conclusion

This proposed solution aims to minimize the systematic error in radiation delivery for patients undergoing motion management with wall‐mounted camera RGSC systems, especially in conjunction with a bariatric CT couchtop.
A novel score to predict progression in anterior circulation single subcortical infarction patients
Authors: Lin Jing , Ruan Shiying , Sun Weipeng , Dong Liangbin , Li Shumeng , Huang Qin , Mao Xiaocheng , Zhang Jinchong , Zou Keji , Zhang Hudie , Huang Pengcheng , Fang Pu , Li Xiaobing , Fan Yuhua , Hong Daojun
Published: February 2024

Objective

Progressive infarction (PI) has a negative effect on functional prognosis. Our study aimed to develop and validate a risk score for predicting PI in patients with anterior circulation single subcortical infarction (ACSSI).

Methods

Between January 2020 and October 2022, we retrospectively enrolled 638 eligible patients with ACSSI. Two‐thirds of the eligible patients were randomly allocated to the training cohort (n = 425). Another resampling sample was formed through the bootstrap method and was used as the validation group (n = 425). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent factors associated with PI. Each factor was then point assigned based on β‐coefficient and a risk scoring system was developed. This scoring system was internally validated through 1000‐bootstrap resamplings. The C‐statistic and Hosmer‐Lemeshow test were used to assess model discrimination and calibration.

Results

PI occurred in 121 patients, accounting for 19.0% of the total patients. A 7‐point NTS score system based on the initial NIHSS score, triglyceride‐glucose index, and the number of infarct slices on axial diffusion‐weighted imaging was developed. The NTS score showed good discrimination and calibration in the training cohort (C‐statistic = 0.686; p value of Hosmer–Lemeshow test = 0.797) and validation cohort (C‐statistic = 0.681; p value of Hosmer–Lemeshow test = 0.451). The three risk levels for predicting PI in the training and validation cohorts based on NTS score were as follows: low (0–2, 9.6% vs. 9.3%), intermediate (3–5, 28.2% vs. 26.7%), and high risk (6–7, 60.2% vs. 57.4%).

Interpretation

The NTS score is a valid and convenient risk score for predicting PI in ACSSI patients.
Electrostatically Shielded Transportation Enabling Accelerated Na+ Diffusivity in High‐Performance Fluorophosphate Cathode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Jinjin , Jing Hongbo , Wang Xiaomei , Xue Yaqing , Liang Qinghua , Qi Weihong , Yu Hong , Du Cheng‐Feng
Published: February 2024

A typical polyanionic based material Na3V2(PO4)2O2F (Na3VPO2F) attracts much interest as a cathode for large‐scale sodium‐ion batteries in consideration of its stable structure and remarkable energy density. Nevertheless, the large coulombic attraction and repulsion suffered by the mobile Na+ from structural anions and surrounding Na+, respectively, result in a torpid reaction kinetics and inferior rate capability. Herein, Br−‐doped and Na+ vacancy preinstalled Na3−yVPO2−xBrxF is prepared to dilute the charges on and inside the Na+ transportation tunnel. In virtue of density functional theory analysis, Na3−yVPO2−xBrxF reveals a reduction in the bandgap and an increase in electronic conductivity. Meanwhile, the almost electrostatically shielded tunnel in Na3−yVPO2−xBrxF alleviates the coulombic hindrance imposed on Na+ during its (de)intercalation, which demonstrates a Na+ diffusivity about five times higher than that of Na3VPO2F. Consequently, the Na3−yVPO2−xBrxF cathode shows a superior rate capacity of 77.7 mAh g−1 under 50 C and great cycling property corresponding to a high capacity retention of 94.4% over 800 cycles at 10 C. The assembled Na3−yVPO2−xBrxF//hard‐carbon sodium‐ion full‐cell presents excellent specific energy/power (226 Wh kg−1@15424.2 W kg−1) as well as outstanding long‐term cyclic stability over 1000 cycles at 5 C.
Multimodal Soft Robotic Actuation and Locomotion
Authors: Yao Dickson R. , Kim Inho , Yin Shukun , Gao Wei
Published: February 2024

Diverse and adaptable modes of complex motion observed at different scales in living creatures are challenging to reproduce in robotic systems. Achieving dexterous movement in conventional robots can be difficult due to the many limitations of applying rigid materials. Robots based on soft materials are inherently deformable, compliant, adaptable, and adjustable, making soft robotics conducive to creating machines with complicated actuation and motion gaits. This review examines the mechanisms and modalities of actuation deformation in materials that respond to various stimuli. Then, strategies based on composite materials are considered to build toward actuators that combine multiple actuation modes for sophisticated movements. Examples across literature illustrate the development of soft actuators as free‐moving, entirely soft‐bodied robots with multiple locomotion gaits via careful manipulation of external stimuli. The review further highlights how the application of soft functional materials into robots with rigid components further enhances their locomotive abilities. Finally, taking advantage of the shape‐morphing properties of soft materials, reconfigurable soft robots have shown the capacity for adaptive gaits that enable transition across environments with different locomotive modes for optimal efficiency. Overall, soft materials enable varied multimodal motion in actuators and robots, positioning soft robotics to make real‐world applications for intricate and challenging tasks.
Feeding tube use and complications in Prader‐Willi syndrome: Data from the Global Prader‐Willi Syndrome Registry
Authors: Roy Sani M. , Rafferty Deborah , Trejo Amy , Hamilton Luke , Bohonowych Jessica E. , Strong Theresa V. , Ambartsumyan Lusine , Cantu Samson , Scheimann Ann , Duis Jessica
Published: February 2024

Guidance on indications for, and types of, feeding tubes recommended in Prader‐Willi syndrome (PWS) is needed. A Global PWS Registry survey was developed to investigate nasogastric (NG) and gastrostomy (G) tube use and associated complications. Of 346 participants, 242 (69.9%) had NG‐tubes, 17 (4.9%) had G‐tubes, and 87 (25.1%) had both NG‐ and G‐tubes. Primary indication for placement was “feeding difficulties and/or poor weight gain” for both NG‐ (90.2%) and G‐tubes (71.2%), while “aspiration/breathing difficulties” was the procedural indication for 6.4% of NG‐tubes and 23.1% of G‐tubes. NG‐tubes were generally removed by age 6 months (NG Only: 82.9%; NG/G: 98.8%), while G‐tubes were often removed by age 2 years (G Only: 85.7%; NG/G: 70.5%). The severe complication rate from G‐tubes was 31.7% and from NG‐tubes was 1.2%. Overall, caregivers indicated the presence of an NG‐ or G‐tube had a positive effect on quality of life. Feeding difficulties in PWS are largely managed by NG‐tube alone. The severe complication rate from G‐tubes was about 25 times higher than from NG‐tubes; yet, G‐tube placement rates have generally increased. G‐tube placement puts individuals with PWS at risk for anesthesia and surgery‐related complications and should be considered judiciously by a multidisciplinary team.
Development of Synthetic Route for 3‐Amino‐5‐halo‐2‐iodobenzoates: Versatile Starting Materials in Pharmaceuticals Synthesis
Authors: Park Jinjae , Seo Ju‐Ahn , Cheon Cheol‐Hong
Published: February 2024

A novel synthetic route to 3‐amino‐5‐halo‐2‐iodobenzoates, which are used as versatile starting materials in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, was developed using commercially available 2‐aminobenzoates bearing a suitable halogen atom at the C5 position as the starting material. Synthesis was initiated with the introduction of a nitro group at the C3 position of the appropriate 2‐aminobenzoates, forming 2‐amino‐3‐nitrobenzoates with a C5‐halogen atom. The subsequent conversion of the C2‐amino group to an iodide yielded 5‐halo‐2‐iodo‐3‐nitrobenzoates, which were further converted into the desired 3‐amino‐5‐halo‐2‐iodobenzoates by reducing the C3‐nitro group to an amino group. It is worth noting that this transformation can be conducted on a 50 mmol scale, and the desired benzoate compounds were obtained in good yield, demonstrating the practical applicability of this protocol.
Axial–Equatorial Halide Ordering in Layered Hybrid Perovskites from Isotropic–Anisotropic 207Pb NMR
Authors: Hope Michael A. , Cordova Manuel , Mishra Aditya , Gunes Ummugulsum , Caiazzo Alessandro , Datta Kunal , Janssen René A. J. , Emsley Lyndon
Published: February 2024

Bandgap‐tuneable mixed‐halide 3D perovskites are of interest for multi‐junction solar cells, but suffer from photoinduced spatial halide segregation. Mixed‐halide 2D perovskites are more resistant to halide segregation and are promising coatings for 3D perovskite solar cells. The properties of mixed‐halide compositions depend on the local halide distribution, which is challenging to study at the level of single octahedra. In particular, it has been suggested that there is a preference for occupation of the distinct axial and equatorial halide sites in mixed‐halide 2D perovskites. 207Pb NMR can be used to probe the atomic‐scale structure of lead‐halide materials, but although the isotropic 207Pb shift is sensitive to halide stoichiometry, it cannot distinguish configurational isomers. Here, we use 2D isotropic–anisotropic correlation 207Pb NMR and relativistic DFT calculations to distinguish the [PbX6] configurations in mixed iodide–bromide 3D FAPb(Br1−xIx)3 perovskites and 2D BA2Pb(Br1−xIx)4 perovskites based on formamidinium (FA+) and butylammonium (BA+), respectively. We find that iodide preferentially occupies the axial site in BA‐based 2D perovskites, which may explain the suppressed halide mobility.
Conditional Cooperativity in RAS Assembly Pathways on Nanodiscs and Altered GTPase Cycling
Authors: Lee Soo‐Yeon , Lee Ki‐Young
Published: February 2024

Self‐assemblies (i.e., nanoclusters) of the RAS GTPase on the membrane act as scaffolds that activate downstream RAF kinases and drive MAPK signaling for cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. However, the mechanistic details of nanoclustering remain largely unknown. Here, size‐tunable nanodisc platforms and paramagnetic relaxation enhancement (PRE) analyses revealed the structural basis of the cooperative assembly processes of fully processed KRAS, mutated in a quarter of human cancers. The cooperativity is modulated by the mutation and nucleotide states of KRAS and the lipid composition of the membrane. Notably, the oncogenic mutants assemble in nonsequential pathways with two mutually cooperative ‘α/α’ and ‘α/β’ interfaces, while α/α dimerization of wild‐type KRAS promotes the secondary α/β interaction sequentially. Mutation‐based interface engineering was used to selectively trap the oligomeric intermediates of KRAS and probe their favorable interface interactions. Transiently exposed interfaces were available for the assembly. Real‐time NMR demonstrated that higher‐order oligomers retain higher numbers of active GTP‐bound protomers in KRAS GTPase cycling. These data provide a deeper understanding of the nanocluster‐enhanced signaling in response to the environment. Furthermore, our methodology is applicable to assemblies of many other membrane GTPases and lipid nanoparticle‐based formulations of stable protein oligomers with enhanced cooperativity.
Concentrated Formic Acid from CO2 Electrolysis for Directly Driving Fuel Cell
Authors: Zhang Chao , Hao Xiaobin , Wang Jiatang , Ding Xiayu , Zhong Yuan , Jiang Yawen , Wu Ming‐Chung , Long Ran , Gong Wanbing , Liang Changhao , Cai Weiwei , Low Jingxiang , Xiong Yujie
Published: February 2024

The production of formic acid via electrochemical CO2 reduction may serve as a key link for the carbon cycle in the formic acid economy, yet its practical feasibility is largely limited by the quantity and concentration of the product. Here we demonstrate continuous electrochemical CO2 reduction for formic acid production at 2 M at an industrial‐level current densities (i.e., 200 mA cm−2) for 300 h on membrane electrode assembly using scalable lattice‐distorted bismuth catalysts. The optimized catalysts also enable a Faradaic efficiency for formate of 94.2 % and a highest partial formate current density of 1.16 A cm−2, reaching a production rate of 21.7 mmol cm−2 h−1. To assess the practicality of this system, we perform a comprehensive techno‐economic analysis and life cycle assessment, showing that our approach can potentially substitute conventional methyl formate hydrolysis for industrial formic acid production. Furthermore, the resultant formic acid serves as direct fuel for air‐breathing formic acid fuel cells, boasting a power density of 55 mW cm−2 and an exceptional thermal efficiency of 20.1 %.
Bioorthogonal “Click and Release” Reaction‐Triggered Aggregation of Gold Nanoparticles Combined with Released Lonidamine for Enhanced Cancer Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Yan Xiao , Li Ke , Xie Tian‐Qiu , Jin Xiao‐Kang , Zhang Cheng , Li Qian‐Ru , Feng Jun , Liu Chuan‐Jun , Zhang Xian‐Zheng
Published: February 2024

Cancer has been the most deadly disease, and 13 million cancer casualties are estimated to occur each year by 2030. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)‐based photothermal therapy (PTT) has attracted great interest due to its high spatiotemporal controllability and noninvasiveness. Due to the trade‐off between particle size and photothermal efficiency of AuNPs, rational design is needed to realize aggregation of AuNPs into larger particles with desirable NIR adsorption in tumor site. Exploiting the bioorthogonal “Click and Release” (BCR) reaction between iminosydnone and cycloalkyne, aggregation of AuNPs can be achieved and attractively accompanied by the release of chemotherapeutic drug purposed to photothermal synergizing. We synthesize iminosydnone‐lonidamine (ImLND) as a prodrug and choose dibenzocyclooctyne (DBCO) as the trigger of BCR reaction. A PEGylated AuNPs‐based two‐component nanoplatform consisting of prodrug‐loaded AuNPs‐ImLND and tumor‐targeting peptide RGD‐conjugated AuNPs‐DBCO‐RGD is designed. In the therapeutic regimen, AuNPs‐DBCO‐RGD are intravenously injected first for tumor‐specific enrichment and retention. Once the arrival of AuNPs‐ImLND injected later at tumor site, highly photothermally active nanoaggregates of AuNPs are formed via the BCR reaction between ImLND and DBCO. The simultaneous release of lonidamine further enhanced the therapeutic performance by sensitizing cancer cells to PTT.
Metastable Liquid Properties and Surface Flow Patterns of Ultrahigh Temperature Alloys Explored in Outer Space
Authors: Wang Haipeng , Hu Liang , Xie Wenjun , Chang Jian , Zheng Chenhui , Li Mingxing , Wang Qing , Liao Hui , Liu Dingnan , Wei Bingbo
Published: February 2024

The metastable liquid properties and chemical bonds beyond 2000 K remain a huge challenge for ground‐based research on liquid materials chemistry. We show the strong undercooling capability, metastable liquid properties and surface wave patterns of refractory Nb−Si and Zr−V binary alloys explored in space environment. The floating droplet of Nb82.7Si17.3 eutectic alloy superheated up to 2338 K exhibited an extreme undercooling of 437 K, approaching the 0.2TE threshold for homogeneous nucleation of liquid‐solid reaction. The microgravity state endowed alloy droplets with nearly perfect sphericity and thus ensured the high accuracy to determine metastable undercooled liquid properties. A special kind of swirling flow was induced for liquid alloy owing to Marangoni convection, which resulted in the spiral microstructures on Zr64V36 alloy surface during liquid‐solid phase transition. The coupled impacts of surface nucleation and surface flow brought in a novel olivary shape for these binary alloys. Furthermore, the chemical bonds and atomic structures of high temperature liquids were revealed to understand the liquid properties in outer space circumstances.
Cs3In(In4Se7)(P2Se6): A Multi‐Chromophore Chalcogenide with Excellent Nonlinear Optical Property Designed by Group Grafting
Authors: Qian Zhen , Wu Hongping , Hu Zhanggui , Wang Jiyang , Wu Yicheng , Yu Hongwei
Published: February 2024

Non‐centrosymmetric (NCS) and polar materials capable of exhibiting many important functional properties are indispensable for electro‐optical technologies, yet their rational structural design remains a significant challenge. Here, we report a “group grafting” strategy for designing the first multi‐chromophore selenophosphate, Cs3In(In4Se7)(P2Se6), that crystallizes in a NCS and polar space group of Cm. The structure features a unique basic building unit (BBU) [In(In4Se10)(P2Se6)], formed through “grafting [In4Se10] supertetrahedra on the root of [In(P2Se6)2] groups”. Theoretical calculations confirm that this [In(In4Se10)(P2Se6)] BBU can achieve a “1+1>2” combination of properties from two chromophores, [In4Se10] supertetrahedron and ethane‐like [P2Se6] dimer. That makes Cs3In(In4Se7)(P2Se6) exhibit excellent linear and nonlinear optical (NLO) properties, including a strong second harmonic generation (SHG) response (~6×AgGaS2), a large band gap (2.45 eV), broad infrared (IR) transmission (up to 19.5 μm), a significant birefringence (0.26 @1064 nm) as well as the congruently‐melting property at ~700 °C. Therefore, Cs3In(In4Se7)(P2Se6) will be a promising NLO crystal, especially in the IR region, and this research also demonstrates that “group grafting” will be an effective strategy for constructing novel polar BBUs with multi‐chromophore to design NCS structures and high‐performance IR NLO materials.
Photodegradation of cationic and anionic dyes by ZnO and S/ZnO biosynthesized nano‐photocatalysts
Authors: Hassan Shawky Mohamed , Farag Mervat , El‐Dafrawy Shady Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Photocatalysis is considered a promising and efficient oxidation technique for wastewater treatment. Developing more environmentally biocompatible, simple, effective, and inexpensive photocatalysts enables photocatalysis technology to be at the forefront of wastewater treatments. As an alternative to harmful chemicals, this work focused on the biosynthesis of a variety of ZnO and doped ZnO based on the extract of the brown alga Cystoseira crinite. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier transform‐infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy were used to characterize the structure, phase, morphology, and UV–vis properties of the biosynthesized samples. XRD showed the crystalline structure of ZnO and S‐doped ZnO. SEM analysis revealed agglomerated spherical particles of the prepared samples. EDX analysis confirmed the formation of S‐doped ZnO. FTIR spectra exhibited that phenolic compounds and protein molecules are present in the Cystoseira crinite extract. The photocatalytic efficiency of biosynthesized materials was examined by monitoring the degradation of crystal violet (CV) and methyl orange (MO) dyes, which serve as cationic and anionic dye models, respectively. The various factors that influence the efficacy of the photodegradation process were investigated. In total, 5% S‐doped ZnO decomposed 97.40% and 89.18% of CV and MO dyes, respectively. The dye degradation was most efficient in samples calcined at 500 °C. The photodegradation of CV dye was enhanced at high pH, while the highest photocatalytic activity of MO dye was observed at low pH values. The kinetic study confirmed that the photodegradation follows the first‐order reaction.
Electrochemical performances and antibacterial activity of green synthesized cobalt oxide nanoparticles and poly (o‐Phenylenediamine) based textile supercapacitor
Authors: Sam Dona Mary , Chakraborty Sohini , Selvan Dharshini Kayalvizhi , Lonappan Mary Nellisseril
Published: February 2024

The demands for electric automotive and regenerative energy storage applications in various fields have brought the attention of researchers towards supercapacitors due to their high specific power, long cycle life, and their ability to bridge the power/energy gap between conventional capacitors and batteries/fuel cells. The incorporation of metal oxide nanoparticles into the functionalized polymer matrix enhances the efficiency of supercapacitor. UV, FT‐IR, TGA, XRD, and SEM analyses validates the incorporation of metal oxide into the polymer matrix to form polymer nanocomposite. A specific capacitance of 186.4 Fg−1 was observed for PoPD‐1 nanocomposite‐based device at a charge density of 1 A/g. The bare polymer and the nanocomposite also exhibited good antimicrobial efficacy and can be used as textiles for therapeutic applications.
Water transferable, customizable highly ordered honeycomb film from polystyrene foam waste for complex surface patterning in confined space
Authors: Le Thu Ha , Chau Ngoc Mai , Van Le Thang , Hieu Nguyen Huu , Bui Van‐Tien
Published: February 2024

The disposal of plastic foam, mostly composed of polystyrene, poses significant environmental challenges due to its high popularity, slow degradation, and low cost. To address this problem, recycling polystyrene foam waste (PF) has emerged as a promising solution to reduce plastic pollution. This paper presents a novel approach to mass‐produce highly ordered, porous honeycomb‐patterned film (hc‐film) using wasted PF as the raw material. The hc‐film is produced using an improved phase separation (IPS) method that utilizes methanol as a suitable pore inducer and template droplet stabilizer. Methanol provides the hc‐film with customizable features such as pore ordering, size, and separation. The freestanding hc‐film, achieved by adopting a water‐soluble polystyrene sulfonate as a scarified layer, can be transferred and utilized as a flexible mold to pattern various solid substrates with complicated surface morphologies using the pre‐impregnated technique. This study demonstrates the potential of this cost‐effective and efficient approach for various applications, such as super/anti‐wetting surfaces, microelectronics, optical devices, sensors, and nanogenerators.
Particle acceleration test with Cas A multiwavelength emission
Authors: Sinitsyna Vera G. , Sinitsyna Vera Y.
Published: February 2024

The investigation of supernova remnants (SNRs) across the electromagnetic spectrum from radio up to very high energy gamma‐rays can serve as a test of the particle acceleration and touches on one of the unresolved problems of modern astrophysics, namely the origin of cosmic rays and the Galaxy's contribution to the overall cosmic ray spectrum. The multiwavelength observations of Cas A SNR demonstrated that structure and spectral features have clear signs of young SNRs and its overall properties make this object the best target to test a hypothesis of cosmic ray origin in SNRs. Studies of Cas A at very high energies by SHALON telescope showed the location of TeV gamma‐ray emission region relative to the position of reveres shock. Also, the spectral energy distribution was obtained at high and very high energies. To describe the spectral and structural features of this SNR viewed in non‐thermal emission, two approaches involving reverse and also both reverse and forward shocks to the mechanism of diffusive shock acceleration of cosmic rays in Cas A were applied. It is demonstrated that the observational properties of Cas A are well reproduced by the hadronic model with significant contribution of both the forward and reverse shocks in the generation of broadband emission. Calculation results suggest that the very high efficiency of particle acceleration in Cas A, which value is up to 25% of the supernova explosion energy with energy of accelerated particles not exceeding of  eV. Whereas, the forward shock model predicts the spectral characteristics of the TeV‐gamma‐emission corresponding to ones detected at 800 GeV–40 TeV that are the evidence of acceleration of the hadronic cosmic rays in shells of SNRs up to  eV
High‐Performance Supported Ru Catalysts for the Aqueous‐Phase Hydrogenation of Levulinic Acid to γ‐Valerolactone
Authors: Leguizamón‐Aparicio María S. , Musci Juan J. , Montaña Maia , Méndez Leticia J. , Barbelli María L. , Rodríguez‐Aguado Elena , Cecilia Juan A. , Rodríguez‐Castellón Enrique , Lick Ileana D. , Casella Mónica L.
Published: February 2024

γ‐Valerolactone (GVL) can be obtained by efficient hydrogenation of levulinic acid using ruthenium‐based catalysts in an aqueous medium. This paper reports an in‐depth study on the activity and selectivity of Ru catalysts supported on zirconia‐alumina, focusing on the effect of Ru concentration (0.5, 1.5 and 3 wt. % of Ru) and the selection of operational reaction variables. The results showed that the activity strongly depends on the number and oxidation state of the supported ruthenium particles. The most active catalyst, Ru3/ZA, presented the highest number of nanometric particles of zerovalent Ru and the highest number of acid sites. This catalyst gave ca. 100 % selectivity towards GVL, at high conversion of levulinic acid (over 99 %) under the best operating conditions evaluated (120 °C, 3 MPa H2 pressure, 1 h of reaction, and 0.1 g of catalyst). In addition, this catalyst kept high levels of conversion and selectivity after successive reuse cycles.
Insulating 6,6‐Phenyl‐C61‐butyric Acid Methyl Ester on Transition‐Metal Dichalcogenides: Impact of the Hybrid Materials on the Optical and Electrical Properties
Authors: Canton‐Vitoria Ruben , Kitaura Ryo
Published: February 2024

In this study we develop a strategy to insulate 6,6 ‐Phenyl C61 butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) on the basal plane of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). Concretely single layers of MoS2, MoSe2, MoTe2, WS2, WSe2 and WTe2 and ultrathin MoO2 and WO2 were grown via chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Then, the thiol group of a PCBM modified with cysteine reacts with the chalcogen vacancies on the basal plane of TMDs, yielding PCBM‐MoS2, PCBM‐MoSe2, PCBM‐WS2, PCBM‐WSe2, PCBM‐WTe2, PCBM‐MoO2 and PCBM‐WO2. Afterwards, all the hybrid materials were characterized using several techniques, including XPS, Raman spectroscopy, TEM, AFM, and cyclic voltammetry. Furthermore, PCBM causes a unique optical and electrical impact in every TMDs. For MoS2 devices, the conductivity and photoluminescence (PL) emission achieve a remarkable enhancement of 1700 % and 200 % in PCBM‐MoS2 hybrids. Similarly, PCBM‐MoTe2 hybrids exhibit a 2‐fold enhancement in PL emission at 1.1 eV. On the other hand, PCBM‐MoSe2, PCBM‐WSe2 and PCBM‐WS2 hybrids exhibited a new interlayer exciton at 1.29–1.44, 1.7 and 1.37‐154 eV along with an enhancement of the photo‐response by 2400, 3200 and 600 %, respectively. Additionally, PCBM‐WTe2 and PCBM‐WO2 showed a modest photo‐response, in sharp contrast with pristine WTe2 or WO2 which archive pure metallic character.
Mass transfer performance of pulsed disk and doughnut column (PDDC) in the extraction of active ingredients in peppermint extract obtained by hot percolation
Authors: Hosseini Zainab Sadat , Bahmanyar Hossein , Rahimpour Neshat , Shirkhanlo Ehsan
Published: February 2024

The active ingredients in peppermint are widely used in the pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic, and other industries. The traditional methods for producing peppermint extract through hydrodistillation (HD) and percolation are long process with low efficiency. The aim of this study is the improvement of the extraction performance and the efficiency of the extract obtained from hot percolation via pulsed disk and doughnut columns (PDDC), which is one of the most important pieces of liquid–liquid extraction (LLE) equipment. Peppermint extract was used as the continuous phase in the PDDC. n‐Hexane was considered as the dispersed phase in this column. In this study, the effects of three operating parameters were investigated, including the pulse intensity, continuous phase height, and dispersed phase flow rate, on the extraction efficiency of active ingredients in peppermint. The response surface method (RSM) was used to investigate the effect of these parameters on the extraction efficiency. The efficiency of this column in the extracting of active ingredients from peppermint was measured by UV–vis spectrophotometry, via the absorption rate of the main active ingredients of peppermint (menthol) in the samples, and the efficiency was 75% on average. The experimental and theorical of dispersed phase mass transfer coefficient were evaluated and compared. The results showed that the PDDC improved the extraction and mass transfer. By increasing the flow rate of the dispersed phase and the height of the continuous phase, the extraction efficiency and the mass transfer coefficient were increased.
Dynamic changes of net anthropogenic nitrogen/phosphorus input and its riverine export in the Beijing's subcenter
Authors: Luo Xiaoyu , Peng Dingzhi , Shang Wenjian , Gu Yu , Luo Qun , Zhu Zhongfan , Pang Bo
Published: February 2024

Due to human activities, the overabundance of regional nitrogen/phosphorus (N/P) has a huge impact on ecological environment worldwide. It is necessary to comprehensively understand the human‐induced N/P input and spatiotemporal variations of nutrients in a river. As the adjustment to the spatial structure of Beijing, the Beijing's subcenter is an important strategic position in promoting the coordinated development of Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei. In this study, the dynamic changes of ammonia nitrogen (NH3‐N) and total phosphorus (TP) from 2012 to 2022 were analyzed, then the net anthropogenic N input (NANI) and net anthropogenic P input (NAPI) was estimated in the Beijing's subcenter. The results showed that both NH3‐N and TP had an overall downward trend with a three‐stage pattern. The NANI and NAPI declined from 5.68 × 104 and 0.95 × 104 to 0.78 × 104 and 0.15 × 104 kg km−2 per year, respectively. The chemical fertilizers input accounted for the largest part at 53–81% of NANI and 49–80% of NAPI. There were high values of N and P input in the southeast of Tongzhou, and the fluxes of N and P were positively correlated with the input of anthropogenic N and P in the Chaobai River Basin (Tongzhou District) and the Beiyun River Basin (Tongzhou District). This study would provide the foundation for setting priorities and enacting more targeted N/P management strategies in the Beijing's subcenter.
Does hormone therapy impact cognition in patients with prostate cancer? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Boué Antoine , Joly Florence , Lequesne Justine , Lange Marie
Published: February 2024

Background

Hormone therapy, which is widely prescribed for prostate cancer, might induce cognitive impairment and affect the autonomy of elderly patients. However, previous studies provided conflicting results. The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to synthesize the longitudinal impact of hormone therapy on objective (cognitive tests) and subjective (questionnaires) cognition.

Methods

A search was performed of the PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases. Studies that longitudinally assessed cognition in patients undergoing androgen‐deprivation therapy and new‐generation hormone therapy were considered. To perform a meta‐analysis, available scores were aggregated and classified into six objective domains and one subjective domain. Weighted mean effect sizes were computed using a random effect model.

Results

Twenty studies were included in the systematic review (1440 patients), and 15 could be included in the meta‐analysis (1093 patients). In the systematic review, 20%–50% of patients had objective cognitive impairment before treatment initiation. The meta‐analysis revealed a decline in subjective cognition (g = −0.44; p = .03) with androgen‐deprivation therapy and new‐generation hormone therapy. All other effect sizes were small (from g = −0.02 to g = 0.18), and none of them indicated a significant decline in objective cognition. Significant heterogeneity was observed in all domains of objective cognition.

Conclusions

This synthesis presents the first meta‐analytic evidence of the negative impact of androgen‐deprivation therapy and new‐generation hormone therapy on subjective cognition. In contrast, there was no conclusive evidence of a decline in objective cognition. The high heterogeneity underscores the need for homogeneous cognitive research on prostate cancer.

Plain Language Summary

There is no consensus on the cognitive impairment induced by hormone therapy for prostate cancer, despite the implications for patients’ care and daily life.

This synthesis of published studies demonstrated an increase in perceived cognitive difficulties but did not prove a decline in cognitive performance during treatment.
Excited States Dynamics at Pentacene/Perfluoropentacene Interfaces: A Femtosecond Time‐Resolved Second Harmonic Generation Study
Authors: Sivanesan Vipilan , Broch Katharina , Tegeder Petra
Published: February 2024

Understanding the dynamics of excited states after optical excitation at donor‐acceptor (D/A) interfaces is of paramount importance for improving the efficiency and performance of optoelectronic devices. Here, we studied the ultrafast excited state dynamics after optical excitation at interfaces between the electron donor (D) pentacene (PEN) and the electron acceptor (A) perfuoropentacene (PFP) as well as within the single compounds (PEN and PFP) using femtosecond (fs) time‐resolved second harmonic generation (SHG). In the single compounds singlet fission is observed on a time scale of around 200 fs. In the bilayer systems a huge SHG intensity rise is observed due to the creation of charge transfer states at the interface and accordingly to formation of a local electric field within tens of picoseconds. The local electric field and therefore the SHG signal intensity from the interface of PEN/PFP bilayer is much more intense compared to the PFP/PEN system because the PFP and PEN intermixing at the PEN/PFP interface is higher. Accordingly a population of defect states on a time scale of 55±12 ps has been proposed for PEN/PFP. Our study provides important insights into D/A charge transfer properties, which is needed for the understanding of the interfacial photophysics of pentacene‐based organic compounds.