bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous Band Alignment Modulation and Carrier Dynamics Optimization Enable Highest Efficiency in Cd‐Free Sb2Se3 Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Shuo , Ye Yu‐Ao , Ishaq Muhammad , Ren Dong‐Lou , Luo Ping , Wu Ke‐Wen , Zeng Yu‐Jia , Zheng Zhuang‐Hao , Su Zheng‐Hua , Liang Guang‐Xing
Published: April 2024

Antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) has developed as an eco‐friendly photovoltaic candidate owing to its non‐toxic composition and exceptional optoelectronic properties. However, the toxic and parasitic light‐absorbing CdS are widely used as electron transport layer (ETL) in Sb2Se3 solar cells, which severely limits its development. Herein, an alternative, zinc tin oxide (ZTO) ETL with varying composition‐dependent energy structure is deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD) technique and used for constructing Cd‐free Sb2Se3 solar cells. It has been found that the ZTO ETL possessing an appropriate Zn/Sn ratio can alter the Sb2Se3/ZTO heterojunction band alignment to an ideal “spike‐like” arrangement. It not only suppresses the accumulation and recombination of charge carriers at the interface, but also effectively enhances carrier transport. In addition, thanks to the formation of passivated Sb2O3 ultra‐thin layer upon ALD process, the non‐radiative recombination within bulk Sb2Se3 can be effectively suppressed, and therefore enhancing carrier lifetime, extraction efficiency, and collection efficiency. Consequently, the as‐fabricated Mo/Sb2Se3/ZTO/ITO/Ag thin‐film solar cell demonstrates an impressive efficiency of 8.63%. This accomplishment establishes it as the most efficient Cd‐free Sb2Se3 solar cell to date, underscoring the significant advantages of incorporating ZTO ETL in the development of Sb2Se3 photovoltaic scenarios.
Regulation of both Bulk and Surface Structure by W/S Co‐Doping for Li‐Rich Layered Cathodes with Remarkable Voltage and Capacity Stability
Authors: Liu Zhenkun , Che Xiangli , Wang Wei , Huang Gesong , Huang Wenjie , Liu Chenyu , Liu Qi , Zhu Ye , Lin Zhan , Luo Dong
Published: April 2024

Lithium‐rich layered oxides (LLOs) have gained significant attention due to their high capacity of over 250 mAh g−1, which originates from the charge compensation of oxygen anions activated under high voltage. However, the charge compensation of oxygen anions is prone to over‐oxidation, leading to serious irreversible oxygen release, surface‐interface reactions, and structural evolution. These detriments make LLOs undergo fast voltage decay and capacity fading, which have hindered their practical applications for many years. Herein, this work develops a multifunctional co‐doping strategy and constructs W─O bonds with strong bonding interaction and covalence, low bond energy Li─S bonds with non‐binding electrons near the Fermi level, and continuous and homogeneous surface spinel‐like layer induced by W/S co‐doping. Their synergistic effect significantly mitigates the irreversible oxygen release and surface‐interface reactions and improves structural stability of Li‐rich layered cathodes. Thus, the designed and prepared Co‐free Li‐rich layered cathode (Li1.232Mn0.574Ni0.191W0.003O1.995S0.005) delivers superior voltage and capacity stability. Its capacity retention after 400 cycles is as large as 86%, and its voltage decay rate from the 10th to the 400th cycle is only 0.626 mV cycle−1.
Aramid Nanofiber‐Based Artificial Nacre‐Supported Graphene/Silver Nanowire Nanopapers for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding and Thermal Management
Authors: Hu Fugang , Gong Ningfeng , Zeng Jinsong , Li Pengfei , Wang Tianguang , Li Jinpeng , Wang Bin , Chen Kefu
Published: April 2024

The development of next‐generation flexible electronics hinges on the creation of materials that are not only mechanically robust but also multifunctional. Herein, a novel approach is presented to fabricate an aramid nanofibers/cellulose nanocrystals/montmorillonite nanoplates (ACM) composite substrate with a robust “brick and mortar” microstructure. This substrate is seamlessly integrated with a high‐performance graphene/silver nanowire (G/Ag) composite conductive layer, resulting in the creation of ACM&G/Ag nanopapers. The resulting nanopapers achieve remarkable tensile strength (δc) (543.82 MPa), tensile modulus (Ec) (10.93 GPa), and toughness (Uc) (95.18 MJ m−3). Notably, when normalized by weight, the specific tensile strength of these nanopapers surpasses that of commercial titanium alloy, reaching 399.87 MPa g−1 cm3, compared to titanium alloy's 257.00 MPa g−1 cm3. With a high conductivity of 1398.08 S cm−1, ACM&G/Ag nanopapers exhibit impressive electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) of 39.59 dB and EMI SE/t of 16359.26 dB cm−1. Moreover, ACM&G/Ag nanopapers exhibit exceptional thermal management performance, featuring high electrical heating temperature (280 °C), rapid response time (<6 s), enduring heating stability, deicing capacity, and reliable heating performance even in humid environments. These results underscore the substantial potential of these high‐performance nanopapers in diverse applications such as wearable devices, electromagnetic compatibility, thermal management, human health, and aerospace.
Boosting Near‐Infrared Emission in Spinel‐Type Phosphor via Oxygen Vacancy Engineering for Versatile Application
Authors: Ye Yulong , Ding Yang , Yang Heyi , Mao Qinan , Pei Lang , Liu Meijiao , Zhong Jiasong
Published: April 2024

Fe3+‐doped MgGa2O4 (MGO: Fe3+) spinel‐type near‐infrared (NIR) phosphor with non‐toxicity, outstanding thermal stability, and tunable emission has recently gained great concern owing to its wide applications. Nevertheless, the existence of detrimental O defects in the MgGa2O4 host and the forbidden d‐d transitions of Fe3+ lead to unsatisfactory luminescence efficiency, limiting the commercial application. In this study, a vacancy repairing engineering has been innovatively developed via F− substitution in MGO: Fe3+ (MGOF: Fe3+) for significantly enhancing NIR emission and maintaining outstanding thermal stability. Specifically, F− substitution with a similar radius effectively repairs the intrinsic O vacancy defects of MGO, thereby prohibiting the detrimental electron‐capturing effect. Meanwhile, F− incorporation can make the lattice of MGO distort and break the forbidden transition of Fe3+. Significantly, the obtained MGOF: Fe3+ presents a 16‐fold higher emission intensity than that of MGO: Fe3+. More important, the MGOF: Fe3+ can remain at 91.17% (363 K) and 85.10% (423 K). Finally, the NIR emission of MGOF: Fe3+ can be used for night vision, non‐destructive biological tissue detection, and food analysis. The proposed vacancy repairing strategy can certainly stimulate some new thoughts and concepts in designing high‐performance phosphors for wider applications.
Multi‐Wavelength Optoelectronic Synaptic Transistors Based on Transition Metal Telluride‐Sulfide Heterostructures
Authors: Das Shreyasi , Pal Varinder , Mukherjee Shubhrasish , Das Soumen , Tiwary Chandra Sekhar , Ray Samit K.
Published: April 2024

Neuromorphic visual systems based on optogenetic techniques have colossal potential for in‐memory computing with prospects of developing artificial intelligence vision systems. However, conventional transistor architectures face formidable challenges in efficient signal processing owing to limitations in the intrinsic properties of active channel materials. In this work, a novel transition metal telluride‐sulfide hybrid heterojunction‐based optoelectronic synaptic phototransistor is proposed, in which UV–vis responsive zinc oxide encapsulated few‐layer tungsten disulfide channel is decorated with near‐infrared sensitive 0D cobalt ditelluride (CoTe2) nanocrystals (NCs), eliciting the ability to sense, store, and process optical signals across a broad range of the electromagnetic spectrum. This meticulously designed three‐layered heterostructure, based on their interfacial band alignments, enables high photoresponsivity up to ≈2.6 × 103 A W−1 at a back‐gate bias of 20 V, leading to the brain‐inspired synaptic applications with an average power consumption as low as 75 pJ for each training process. The device exhibits excitatory postsynaptic current, paired‐pulse facilitation with an index above 150%, as well as light‐modulated synaptic plasticity by mimicking biological synapses, which mainly originate from trapped holes in Co‐vacancy mediated surface defect states of CoTe2 NCs. Hence, this 2D material‐based hybrid phototransistor appears to be a promising candidate for energy‐efficient next‐generation brain‐inspired neuromorphic vision systems.
Lithium‐Mediated Nitrogen Reduction for Ammonia Synthesis: Reviewing the Gap between Continuous Electrolytic Cells and Stepwise Processes through Galvanic Li─N2 Cells
Authors: Mangini Anna , Fagiolari Lucia , Sacchetti Annalisa , Garbujo Alberto , Biasi Pierdomenico , Bella Federico
Published: April 2024

Electrochemical N2 reduction reaction (E‐NRR) has recently gained increasing interest within the scientific community, due to the ongoing energy crisis and pursuit of process sustainability. In this scenario, emerging lithium‐mediated (Li‐m) strategies are obtaining promising Faradaic efficiency (FE) and NH3 production rate values. In this work, the Li‐m scenarios are classified and explained toward a more sustainable process. Continuous processes, with a lithium salt and a proton donor in an electrolytic cell, are analyzed and compared with stepwise pathways. Different parameters are summarized in relation to the system stability, for which the importance of a tailored solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer emerged. Among stepwise processes, the thermochemical direct nitridation of lithium is discussed together with the recently developed Galvanic Li─N2 cell strategy.
Lysine aggregates‐based nanostructured antimicrobial peptides for cariogenic biofilm microenvironment‐activated caries treatment
Authors: Li Siyuan , Wang Feng , Chen Yang , Shi Wanrui , Liu Dashuai , Lv Mingyang , Zhao Bin , Liu Yi , Zhang Hao
Published: April 2024

Dental caries is one of the most prevalent and costly biofilm‐induced oral diseases that causes the deterioration of the mineralized tooth tissue. Traditional antimicrobial agents like antibiotics and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) struggle to effectively eradicate bacteria in biofilms without eliciting resistance. Herein, we demonstrate the construction of FeOOH@Fe‐Lysine@Au nanostructured AMPs (nAMPs) distinguished by their AMP‐like antibacterial activity and self‐producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) capacity for caries treatment. On the one hand, FeOOH@Fe‐Lysine@Au nAMPs can catalyze glucose oxidation to generate ROS within the cariogenic biofilm microenvironment, resulting in the disintegration of the extracellular polymeric substance matrix and the exposure of bacteria. On the other hand, FeOOH@Fe‐Lysine@Au nAMPs can attach to bacterial surfaces via electrostatic attractions, proceeding to damage membranes, disrupt metabolic pathways, and inhibit protein synthesis through the aggregated lysine and the generated ROS. Based on this antibacterial mechanism, FeOOH@Fe‐Lysine@Au nAMPs can effectively eradicate Streptococcus mutans and its associated biofilm, significantly impeding the progression of dental caries. Given the straightforward and cost‐efficient preparation of FeOOH@Fe‐Lysine@Au nAMPs compared to AMPs that require specific sequences, and their minimal adverse impacts on gingival/palatal tissues, major organs, and oral/gut microbiomes, our research may promote the development of novel therapeutic agents in dental health maintenance.
Generational trends in the transition to womanhood in lowland rural Nepal: Changes in the meaning of early marriage
Authors: Marphatia A. , Busert‐Sebela L. , Manandhar D. S. , Reid A. , Cortina‐Borja M. , Saville N. , Dahal M. , Puri M. , Wells J. C. K.
Published: April 2024

Objective

In South Asia, studies show secular trends toward slightly later women's marriage and first reproduction. However, data on related biological and social events, such as menarche and age of coresidence with husband, are often missing from these analyses. We assessed generational trends in key life events marking the transition to womanhood in rural lowland Nepal.

Methods

We used data on 110 co‐resident mother‐in‐law (MIL) and daughter‐in‐law (DIL) dyads. We used paired t‐tests and chi‐squared tests to evaluate generational trends in women's education, and mean age at menarche, marriage, cohabitation with husband, and first reproduction of MIL and DIL dyads. We examined norms held by MILs and DILs on a daughter's life opportunities.

Results

On average, MIL was 29 years older than DIL (60 years vs. 31 years). Both groups experienced menarche at average age 13.8 years. MIL was married at average 12.4 years, before menarche, and cohabitated with husbands at average 14.8 years. DIL was simultaneously married and cohabitated with husbands after menarche, at average 15 years. DIL was marginally more educated than MIL but had their first child on average 0.8 years earlier (95% CI −1.4, −0.1). MIL and DIL held similar norms on daughters' education and marriage.

Conclusion

While social norms remain similar, the meaning of “early marriage” and use of menarche in marriage decisions has changed in rural lowland Nepal. Compared to DIL, MIL who was married earlier transitioned to womanhood more gradually. However, DIL was still married young, and had an accelerated trajectory to childbearing.
Modification of poly(styrene‐b‐isobutylene‐b‐styrene) using hyaluronic acid via surface graft polymerization and cytotoxicity investigation
Authors: Zhu Yan , Chen Minhan , Wu Yibo , Liu Ruofan , Ding Wei , Zhang Hao , Song Yanhong , Jin Yushun , Li Jiwei
Published: April 2024

Poly(styrene‐b‐isobutylene‐b‐styrene) (SIBS) is a biomedical elastomer with excellent overall properties. However, the low surface energy and the surface hydrophobicity of SIBS have limited its application as a human implantable material. To improve its biocompatibility, in this work, hyaluronic acid (HA) was introduced onto the surface of SIBS. Firstly, glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) and HA were employed to prepare GMA‐modified HA (GMHA) via grafting reaction. Due to the introduction of carbon–carbon double bonds on the side chain of HA, the GMHA could be used for free radical polymerization between SIBS. The effects of UV illumination time, GMHA concentration, and initiator concentration on the grafting ratio were investigated. FTIR, 1H NMR, and XPS confirmed the successful grafting of HA onto SIBS. The experimental results showed that the surface modification method not only ensured that the excellent properties of the SIBS would not be destroyed but also improved its surface properties successfully. Besides, the MTT assay indicated that the GMHA‐modified SIBS was not bio‐toxic, so it could meet the need to expand its use in the biomedical fields.
Teaching a foreign language to students with autism via telehealth in inclusive school settings
Authors: Zhou Liming , Hu Xiaoyi , Qi Xueting , Song Haozhi , Zhou Ye , Song Wen
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to replicate previous research that examined the effects of tact and listener instruction on the emergence of bidirectional intraverbals, and to extend this research line to include teaching a foreign language to students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) via telehealth. The study participants were four Chinese native primary school‐aged students. An adaptive alternative treatment design was used to compare the effects of tact and listener instruction on bidirectional intraverbals, and pre‐probe and post‐probe data demonstrated that both forms of instruction led to bidirectional intraverbal relations, with tact instruction being relatively more effective. Maintenance and social validity were assessed for all participants, and booster instructions were provided as needed. The results were discussed in the context of inclusive education and improving foreign language instruction for students with special needs.
Impact of Single Acyclic Phosphonate Nucleotide (ZNA) Modifications on DNA Duplex Stability
Authors: Li Xinlu , Groaz Elisabetta , Herdewijn Piet , Lescrinier Eveline
Published: April 2024

An acyclic phosphonate‐linked nucleic acid backbone (ZNA) demonstrated the capability to support duplex formation and propagate genetic information in vivo, unveiling its potential for evolution into a synthetic genetic system (XNA). To determine the structural impact of such modification, modified Dickerson Drew DNA dodecamers (DDDs) were prepared by solid phase synthesis, each containing either an (R) or (S) isomeric form of a cytosine ZNA nucleotide. While the DDD is known to adopt a stable duplex, both duplex and hairpin forms were simultaneously observed for both modified oligonucleotides by NMR spectroscopy over a broad temperature range (5–65 °C). Diffusion‐ordered spectroscopy (DOSY) experiments allowed to separate duplex and hairpin signals based on the different diffusion constants of both conformational states. For the oligomer containing (R)‐ZNA, only the duplex form occurred at 5 °C, while it was not possible to determine by NMR a single hairpin conformation at higher temperatures. In the case of the (S)‐ZNA nucleoside modified oligomer, both hairpin and duplex forms were observable at 0 °C, while a single hairpin conformation was detected at 37 °C, suggesting a higher destabilizing effect on dsDNA.
Recent Developments in the Materials and Miniaturization of Supercapacitors
Authors: Yadav Sarita , Sanjay Khone Darshika , Ritu  , Singh Rana Abhimanyu
Published: April 2024

High‐performing energy storage systems are getting more and more attention due to the rapid growth of renewable energy harvesting technology. To keep pace with it, supercapacitors have emerged a promising energy storage technology providing high power density and long cycle life. In an urge to enhance the energy density without sacrificing the power density, enormous research is going on the exploration of high‐performance electrode materials. Huge modifications in the present synthesis routes and innovations in the new techniques may be attributed to the large‐scale production of potential electrode materials for supercapacitors. This review focuses on the recent advancements in several potential electrode materials for supercapacitors and device miniaturization.
Extraction of terminal ileal lipomas to cecum can facilitate endoscopic resection: A case series with video
Authors: Yamazaki Hiroshi , Minato Yohei , Madhu Deepak , Iida Toshifumi , Banjyoya Susumu , Kimura Tomoya , Furuta Koichi , Nagae Shinya , Itou Yohei , Takeuchi Nao , Takayanagi Shunya , Kimoto Yoshiaki , Kano Yuki , Sakuno Takashi , Ono Kohei , Ohata Ken
Published: April 2024

Large ileal lipomas over 2 cm can cause symptoms, that may require a resection. Due to the narrow lumen and thin walls of the ileum, endoscopic treatments can have a high risk of adverse events and require technical expertise, thus surgical resection is currently the mainstay of treatment. To overcome the technical challenges, we developed a novel method to endoscopically resect terminal ileal lipomas. The technique involves extracting the lesion into the cecum, which creates sufficient space to maneuver, and a better field of view. The lipoma is resected with endoscopic mucosal resection or endoscopic submucosal dissection. The appearance of the lipoma protruding out of the ileocecal valve resembles that of a tongue sticking out of the mouth, thus we named this the “tongue out technique”. To assess the technical feasibility of this method, we retrospectively analyzed seven cases of terminal ileal lipoma that were endoscopically resected using the “tongue out technique” at NTT Medical Center Tokyo between January 2017 and October 2023. Technical success was 100% and en bloc resection was achieved in all cases. The median size was 31 (14–55) mm. Three cases were resected with endoscopic mucosal resection while endoscopic submucosal dissection was performed on the other four cases. There was one case of delayed post‐endoscopic mucosal resection bleeding, which was caused by clip dislodgement. There were no perforations. No recurrence of the lipoma or associated symptoms have been observed. This new technique can allow more ileal lipomas to be treated with minimally invasive and organ‐preserving endoscopic procedures.
Advances in Limnogeology: The lake‐basin‐type model revisited 25 years after…anomalies, conundrums and upgrades
Authors: Benavente Cecilia A. , Bohacs Kevin M.
Published: April 2024

The lake‐basin‐type model classified the stratigraphic record of ancient lake systems according to rates of potential accommodation relative to sediment + water supply. The model convolved all modes and paths of water supply (direct fall, surficial, subsurface) with amounts and types of sediment supply (clastic, biogenic, chemical) into a single basin‐filling volume term (sediment + water); its major strength was its widespread applicability. This was supported by subsequent investigations confirming the utility of this approach, but it also revealed some important limitations due to simplifications in the original model. The model has been expanded here to address all inland waters (lakes, ponds, wetlands, playas) as well as adding two major subdivisions of the sediment + water term: (1) water supply paths and (2) the volume of water supply relative to sediment supply. Water supply flow paths in the subsurface are subdivided into ‘throughflow’, ‘recharge’ and ‘discharge’. Each of these groundwater hydrology states can be defined quite precisely by the ratio of net outflow to inflow, from persistently open to consistently closed. These paths can be deciphered using stable carbonate and oxygen isotope composition of primary lacustrine limestones, detailed sedimentology, stratigraphy, palaeontology and mineralogy. Distinguishing water supply paths provides additional insights into playa systems and the occurrence and character of evaporites and carbonates. The volume ratio of water to sediment supply most directly influences the water depths of lakes, ponds and wetlands, which affect water body hydrodynamics and ecosystem behaviour as well as the details of stratal stacking and depositional sequences. It helps fine‐tune estimates of the distribution of sediment texture, bedding, composition and organic matter content. The aim of this contribution is to address questions about the fundamental types of inland water bodies and to explain the new lake‐basin subtypes and provide examples that illustrate their potential to enable higher‐resolution, robust analysis of inland water systems and their stratigraphic records.
Liquid surface depression and bubble generation by acoustic radiation
Authors: Fang Zilong , Wan Kai‐Tak , Taslim Mohammad E.
Published: April 2024

Liquid surfaces can be depressed by applying acoustic radiation force. The balance between the acoustic radiation force, surface tension force, and buoyant force sustains the stable dimple depression. Beyond a certain threshold, higher acoustic radiation force leads to instability and bubble formation. The bubble size is determined by the acoustic radiation force and the liquid surface tension. Effective management of bubble generation can be achieved by controlling acoustic radiation waves. A novel method for creating depression on liquid surfaces and generating bubbles is described, which requires neither gas supply nor direct contact with equipment.
Clinical Service Incorporating Mobile Technology on Weight Loss in Patients With Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: A Translation From Research Trial
Authors: Ang Siew Min , Lim Su Lin , Dan Yock Young , Chan Yiong Huak , Yap Qai Ven , Chen Juliana
Published: April 2024

Background

The prevalence and healthcare cost of metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has increased alongside the epidemic surge in obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Weight loss through lifestyle modification remains the primary effective therapy for MASLD. Incorporation of mobile technology in lifestyle interventions has been previously found to be efficacious and cost‐effective in facilitating weight loss. However, there is a paucity of studies that have successfully translated lifestyle research into clinical service for weight loss to alleviate disease burden. Our study aimed to describe the process of translating a mobile technology–enabled trial into a tertiary hospital outpatient dietetics service for patients with MASLD.

Methods

The Iowa Model of Evidence‐Based Practice to Improve Quality Care was used as a framework for this paper to guide implementation at the organizational level.

Results

Regular engagement of key operational staff and the hospital management team facilitated open discussions of the challenges faced and enabled rapid implementation of strategies that contributed to the smooth piloting of the service. A service adoption rate of 81% was achieved. Preliminary outcome evaluation found that the percentage of patients achieving ≥ 5% weight loss from baseline at 6 months was comparable at 54% and 52% for the service and trial groups, respectively.

Conclusions

Evaluation of the implementation process found that a hybrid model of care (in‐person consultation supplemented with app coaching) preserved interpersonal connections while maximizing the convenience and scalability of mobile app–enabled service. Although high digital acceptance and adoption rates propelled by COVID‐19‐supported telehealth, it is prudent to assess patient's access to technology and digital literacy and offer resources to help them benefit from telehealth services.
Ictal Cotard delusion as a manifestation of nonconvulsive status epilepticus: A case report and commentary
Authors: Crespo Pimentel Bernardo , Kuchukhidze Giorgi , Heyduk Marta , Thomschewski Aljoscha , Trinka Eugen , Höfler Julia
Published: April 2024

Psychosis of epileptic origin can present a wide range of cognitive and affective symptoms and is often underrecognized. Usually occurring in the inter‐ and postictal phase, epileptic psychosis is mostly related to temporal lobe epilepsy. Here, we describe the clinical presentation and diagnostic workup including routine EEG recording and brain MRI of a 63‐year‐old woman expressing isolated nihilistic delusions comprising belief of being dead and denial of self‐existence. EEG showed an ictal pattern fulfilling the Salzburg criteria of nonconvulsive status epilepticus and brain MRI revealed extensive peri‐ictal hyperperfusion. Delusional symptoms and EEG abnormalities subsided after acute antiseizure treatment. Our case illustrates how nihilistic delusions can occur as a direct clinical correlate of seizure activity, thereby expanding the spectrum of ictal neuropsychiatric phenomena in temporal lobe epilepsy and highlighting the need to consider an epileptic origin in patients presenting with psychotic symptoms.
MEG3 shuttled by exosomes released from human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells promotes TP53 stability to regulate MCM5 transcription in keloid fibroblasts
Authors: Zhu Feibin , Ye Yuanjian , Shao Ying , Xue Chunli
Published: April 2024

Background

Despite the interest in mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), their potential to treat abnormal scarring, especially keloids, is yet to be described. The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of exosomes derived from human bone marrow MSCs (hBMSC‐Exos) in alleviating keloid formation.

Methods

Exosomes were isolated from hBMSC, and keloid fibroblasts (KFs) were treated with hBMSC‐Exos. Cell counting kit‐8, wound healing, transwell invasion, immunofluorescence, and western blot assays were conducted to study the malignant phenotype of KFs. Mice were induced with keloids and treated with hBMSC‐Exos. The effect of hBMSC‐Exos on keloid formation in vivo was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining, Masson staining, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting. The GSE182192 dataset was screened for differentially expressed long non‐coding RNA during keloid formation. Next, maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) was knocked down in hBMSC to obtain hBMSC‐Exossh‐MEG3. The molecular mechanism of MEG3 was investigated by bioinformatic screening, and the relationship between MEG3 and TP53 or MCM5 was verified.

Results

hBMSC‐Exos inhibited the malignant proliferation, migration, and invasion of KFs at same time as promoting their apoptosis, Moreover, hBMSC‐Exos reduced the expression of fibrosis‐ and collagen‐related proteins in the cells and the formation of keloids caused by KFs. The reduction in MEG3 enrichment in hBMSC‐Exos weakened the inhibitory effect of hBMSC‐Exos on KF activity. hBMSC‐Exos delivered MEG3 to promote MCM5 transcription by TP53 in KFs. Overexpression of MCM5 in KFs reversed the effects of hBMSC‐Exossh‐MEG3, leading to reduced KF activity.

Conclusions

hBMSC‐Exos delivered MEG3 to promote the protein stability of TP53, thereby activating MCM5 and promoting KF activity.
Integrated spectroscopic and computational analyses unravel the molecular interaction of pesticide azinphos‐methyl with bovine beta‐lactoglobulin
Authors: Al‐Shabib Nasser Abdulatif , Khan Javed Masood , Malik Ajamaluddin , AlAmri Abdulaziz , Rehman Md Tabish , AlAjmi Mohamed F. , Husain Fohad Mabood
Published: April 2024

Organophosphorus are typically hazardous chemicals used in the pharmaceutical, agricultural, and other industries. They pose a serious risk to human life and can be fatal upon direct exposure. Hence, studying the interaction between such compounds with proteins is crucial for environmental, health, and food safety. In this study, we investigated the interaction mechanism between azinphos‐methyl (AZM) and β‐lactoglobulin (BLG) at pH 7.4 using a combination of biophysical techniques. Intrinsic fluorescence investigations revealed that BLG fluorescence was quenched in the presence of increasing AZM concentrations. The quenching mechanism was identified as static, as evidenced by a decrease in the fluorescence quenching constant (1.25 × 104, 1.18 × 104, and 0.86 × 104 M−1) with an increase in temperatures. Thermodynamic calculations (ΔH > 0; ΔS > 0) affirmed the formation of a complex between AZM and BLG through hydrophobic interactions. The BLG's secondary structure was found to be increased due to AZM interaction. Ultraviolet –visible spectroscopy data showed alterations in BLG conformation in the presence of AZM. Molecular docking highlighted the significant role of hydrophobic interactions involving residues such as Val43, Ile56, Ile71, Val92, Phe105, and Met107 in the binding between BLG and AZM. A docking energy of −6.9 kcal mol−1, and binding affinity of 1.15 × 105 M−1 suggest spontaneous interaction between AZM and BLG with moderate to high affinity. These findings underscore the potential health risks associated with the entry of AZM into the food chain, emphasizing the need for further consideration of its impact on human health.
Transfers and anesthesia‐related postoperative outcomes after 3361 same‐day cancer surgeries at a freestanding surgery center: An observational retrospective study
Authors: Simon Natalie B. , McCready Taylor M. , Serafin Joanna , Assel Melissa , Jewell Elizabeth , Mehta Meghana , Vickers Andrew J. , Barnett Kara M.
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives

Expanding outpatient surgery to the increasing number of procedures and patient populations warrants continuous evaluation of postoperative outcomes to ensure the best care and safety. We describe adverse postoperative outcomes and transfer rates related to anesthesia in a large sample of patients who underwent same‐day cancer surgery at a freestanding ambulatory surgery center.

Methods

Between January 2017 and June 2021, 3361 cancer surgeries, including breast and plastic, head and neck, gynecology, and urology, were performed. The surgeries were indicated for diagnosis, staging, and/or treatment. We report the incidence of transfers and adverse postoperative outcomes related to anesthesia.

Results

Breast and plastic surgeries were the most common (1771, 53%), followed by urology (1052, 31%), gynecology (410, 12%), and head and neck surgeries (128, 4%). Based on patients' first procedure, comorbidity levels were highest for urology (75% American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status score 3, 1.7% score 4) and lowest for breast surgeries (31% score 3, 0.2% score 4). Most gynecology surgeries used general anesthesia (97.6%), whereas breast surgeries used the least (38%). A total of seven patients (0.2%; 95% CI: 0.08%−0.4%) were immediately transferred to an outside hospital; four due to anesthesia‐related reasons. Only 7 (0.2%) patients needed additional postoperative care related to anesthesia‐related adverse events, specifically cardiac events (4), difficult intubations (2), desaturation (1), and agitation, nausea, and headache (1).

Conclusions

The incidence of anesthesia‐related adverse postoperative outcomes is low in cancer patients undergoing outpatient surgeries at our freestanding ambulatory surgery center. This suggests that carefully selected cancer patients, including patients with metastatic cancer, can undergo anesthesia for same‐day surgery, making cancer care accessible locally and reducing stress associated with travel for treatment. More research investigating complication rates related to surgery and to cancer disease trajectory are needed to establish a complete evaluation of safety for outpatient cancer surgery.
Evaluation of association between center colorectal neuroendocrine neoplasm volume and survival among patients with colorectal neuroendocrine carcinoma
Authors: Suraju Mohammed O. , Freischlag Kyle , McKeen Andrew , Nayyar Apoorve , Thompson Dakota , Gordon Darren M. , Mishra Aditi , Sherman Scott K. , Goffredo Paolo , Hassan Imran
Published: April 2024

Background

Although correlation between center volume and survival has been reported for several complex cancers, it remains unknown if this is true for colorectal neuroendocrine carcinomas (CRNECs). We hypothesized that higher center annual volume of colorectal neuroendocrine neoplasm resections would be associated with overall survival (OS) for patients with CRNECs.

Methods

Patients in the National Cancer Database diagnosed with stages I–III CRNEC between 2006 and 2018 and who underwent surgical resection were identified. The mean annual colorectal neuroendocrine neoplasm resection volume threshold associated with significantly worse mortality hazard was determined using restricted cubic splines. Kaplan–Meier (KM) method was used to compare OS, while Cox proportional hazards model was used for multivariable analysis.

Results

There were 694 patients with CRNEC who met inclusion criteria across 1229 centers. Based on the cubic spline, centers treating fewer than one colorectal neuroendocrine neoplasm patient every 3 years on average had worse outcomes. Centers below this threshold were classified as low‐volume (LV) centers corresponding with 42% of centers and about 15% of the patient cohort. In unadjusted survival analysis, LV patients had a median OS of 14 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 10–19) while those treated at HV centers had a median OS of 33 months (95% CI: 25–49). In multivariable analysis, resection at a LV center was associated with increased risk of mortality (1.42 [95% CI: 1.01–2.00], p = 0.04).

Conclusion

CRNEC patients have a dire prognosis; however, treatment at an HV center may be associated with decreased risk of mortality.
Bridging frontiers: The role of a Global Breast Research Working Group
Authors: Reyes‐Monasterio Antonio , Möller Mecker Geraldine , Lozada‐Martinez Ivan David , Narvaez‐Rojas Alexis Rafael , De la Cruz Ku Gabriel , Metke Ricardo , Cabrera‐Vargas Luis Felipe , Torregrosa‐Almonacid Lilian , Lesmes Laura Camila , Eli Avisar , Paulinelli Regis Resende
Published: April 2024

Breast cancer remains a significant cause of death for women globally, despite advancements in detection and treatment, low‐ and middle‐income countries face unique obstacles. Role of Research Working Group (RWG) can expedite research progress by fostering collaboration between scientists, clinicians, and stakeholders. Benefits of a Global RWG include pooling resources and expertise to develop new research ideas, addressing disparities, and building local research capacity, with the potential to improve breast cancer research and outcomes.
Key bacterial groups maintain stream multifunctionality in response to episodic drying
Authors: Gionchetta Giulia , Arias‐Real Rebeca , Hurtado Pilar , Bürgmann Helmut , Gutiérrez‐Cánovas Cayetano
Published: April 2024

Microbial biodiversity is fundamental to maintain ecosystem functioning in seasonally variable ecosystems. However, it remains unclear how alterations in water availability caused by episodic drying compromise the ability of stream microbes to maintain multiple functions simultaneously (e.g., primary production and carbon cycling). Using data from 32 streams, we investigated how the phenology of annual drying influences stream sediment microbial biodiversity and their capacity to sustain multifunctionality. Our results showed that stream multifunctionality and most bacteria did not respond to changes in drying phenology. Only two bacterial groups, the drying‐resistant Sphingobacteriia and the drying‐sensitive Acidobacteria_Gp7, exhibited positive associations with multifunctionality; whereas, bacterial diversity showed a negative correlation with functions. Among these biodiversity aspects, Sphingobacteriia showed the strongest capacity to maintain multifunctionality at low and moderate performance levels. Our findings will help to better understand the mechanisms through which biodiversity sustains the functioning of seasonally variable streams and their responses to global change.
Dual‐Layer Metasurface Enhanced Capacity of Polarization Multiplexing
Authors: Zhang Runzhe , Guo Yinghui , Zhang Fei , Pu Mingbo , Fan Yulong , Zhang Qi , Li Xiaoyin , Xu Mingfeng , Xu Junwen , Luo Xiangang
Published: April 2024

Polarization is the nature of optics. Exploiting metasurface's polarizations can enhance the multiplexing capacity but face a limited number of channels. For example, a single‐layer metasurface can offer three independent channels with six degrees of freedom (DoFs) including the amplitude and phase of Ex, Exy(yx), and Ey of the Jones matrix. In this work, it is theoretically demonstrated that the degrees of freedom of dual‐layer metasurfaces can reach eight, overcoming the polarization multiplexing constraints of single‐layer metasurfaces and that the cross‐talk can be largely reduced as compared with single‐layer metasurfaces when the channel number is larger than three. Numerical calculations manifest a decrease of 100%, 63%, and 50% for the cross‐talk of channels 4, 5, and 6, respectively. As a proof‐of‐concept demonstration of high‐capacity polarization multiplexing, an arbitrary‐polarization‐controlled 5‐channel dual‐layer metasurface exhibiting five nanoprintings and five holographic images with reduced cross‐talk under different incident and output polarizations is successfully designed. Thus, the research highlighting the high‐multiplexing‐capacity of dual‐layer metasurfaces can significantly advance multifunctional optical devices with high efficiency, simple integration, and ease of manipulation.
Bilanz Covestro 2023: Polycarbonate und Recycling
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: April 2024

Wegen der weltweit schwachen Nachfrage im Jahr 2023 waren die Verkaufspreise und ‐mengen gering. Dies senkte den Umsatz des Leverkusener Konzerns Covestro.
Differences in real‐world outcomes by risk classification for localized prostate cancer patients after radiation therapy
Authors: Karsh Lawrence , Du Shawn , He Jinghua , Waters Dexter , Muser Erik , Shore Neal
Published: April 2024

Background

Limited real‐world evidence exists on the long‐term clinical outcomes of patients with localized prostate cancer (LPC) who received external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) as the initial treatment. This study evaluated clinical outcomes of US patients with high‐risk LPC (HR‐LPC) and low/intermediate‐risk LPC (LIR‐LPC) who received EBRT.

Methods

This retrospective study using Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results‐Medicare linked data from 2012 to 2019 included patients ≥ 65 years old who received EBRT as initial therapy. Baseline patient characteristics were summarized, metastasis‐free survival (MFS), overall survival, and time to initiation of advanced prostate cancer treatment were compared using Kaplan−Meier (KM) and adjusted Cox proportional hazard (PH) models. 5‐year survival probabilities stratified by race/ethnicity (non‐Hispanic [NH] White, NH Black, NH Asian, and Hispanic) were assessed.

Results

Of 11,313 eligible patients, 41% (n = 4600) had HR‐LPC and 59% (n = 6713) had LIR‐LPC. Patient characteristics for both groups were comparable, with mean age at EBRT initiation > 70 years, 86% white, and mean follow‐up time >40 months. More patients in the HR‐LPC than LIR‐LPC groups (78% vs 34%) had concurrent androgen deprivation therapy use and for a longer duration (median 10.4 months vs. 7.4 months). A higher proportion of HR‐LPC patients developed metastasis, died, or received advanced prostate cancer treatment. Adjusted Cox PH survival analyses showed significantly (p < 0.0001) higher risk of mortality (hazard ratios [HR], 1.57 [1.38, 2.34]), metastasis or death (HR, 1.97 [1.78, 2.17]), and advanced prostate cancer therapy use (HR, 2.57 [2.11, 3.14]) for HR‐LPC than LIR‐LPC patients. Within 5 years after the initial EBRT treatment, 18%−26% of patients with HR‐LPC are expected to have died or developed metastasis. The 5‐year MFS rate in the HR‐LPC group was lower than the LIR‐LPC group across all racial/ethnic subgroups. NH Black patients with HR‐LPC had the highest all‐cause mortality rate and lowest rate of receiving advanced prostate cancer treatment, compared to other racial/ethnic subgroups.

Conclusions

This real‐world study of clinical outcomes in patients with LPC treated with EBRT suggests substantial disease burden in patients with HR‐LPC and highlights the need for additional treatment strategies to improve clinical outcomes in patients with HR‐LPC.
Natural disease course modeling of achondroplasia to evaluate the efficacy of recifercept in the absence of a placebo control arm in phase II study
Authors: Qiao Wenlian , Boucher Martin , Slade Alison , Dawra Vikas K.
Published: April 2024

While randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blinded clinical studies are the gold standard for evaluating the efficacy of investigational drugs, the use of placebo in children with achondroplasia should be limited because it provides no clinical benefit while exhausting study participants' treatment window. Recifercept is an investigational drug for treating children with achondroplasia aged 2–10 years. An alternative efficacy evaluation method, instead of a placebo control arm, was employed in the phase II study. Prior to participating in the phase II study, participants completed a natural history (NH) study. Based on the NH data, a multi‐variate linear mixed effects natural disease course model of three anthropometric end points (standing height, sitting height, and arm span) was developed. The model was validated using published growth charts of children with achondroplasia. Subsequently, the model was used to simulate the natural growth trajectories (without any treatment) of the three anthropometric end points for the individuals enrolled in the phase II study. To quantify the efficacy of recifercept, the simulations were compared with the observations post‐recifercept treatment in the phase II study. For all the tested doses of recifercept, at the individual level, the observations were comparable to the simulations at 6 and 12 months post‐recifercept treatment, suggesting no treatment effect. The results contributed to the decision of terminating recifercept clinical development. This work delivers a framework that could eliminate the need for placebo in clinical trials yet provide sufficient evidence for evaluating the efficacy of an investigational drug.
Spontaneously Integrated Multicolor InGaN Micro‐Light‐Emitting Diodes for Spectrum‐Controllable Broadband Light Sources
Authors: Matsuda Yoshinobu , Miyawaki Haruyoshi , Funato Mitsuru , Kawakami Yoichi
Published: April 2024

Spontaneously integrated multicolor InGaN micro‐light‐emitting diodes with a microstripe topography achieve selective electrical operation with four different color emissions: green, bluish‐green, bluish‐purple, and purple. The entire microstripe displays broadband emissions because the stripe topography with a convex lens‐like cross section induces a continuous emission wavelength gradient in the overgrown InGaN active layers. Since each wavelength component is distributed along the stripe direction, multiple narrow p‐electrodes are positioned side by side across the stripe width. This design supports selective current injection into the corresponding local areas. This work represents an important step for realizing broadband visible light emitters where individual wavelength components comprising the broad spectra can be modulated and switched independently.
Ultrathin LiF Insertion and Ensued Contact Resistance Reduction in MoS2 Channel Transistors
Authors: Cho Hyunmin , Kang Donghee , Yi Yeonjin , Park Ji Hoon
Published: April 2024

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is a representative 2D n‐type semiconductor for various electron devices, but its lateral conduction performances are still restricted, which are mainly attributed to the contact resistance (Rc) in field‐effect transistors (FETs). Low‐enough Rc value must be realized toward practical device fabrications. Herein, 2D MoS2 FETs using chemical vapor deposited (CVD) MoS2 channels with and without the ultrathin LiF interlayer are fabricated, to demonstrate the practical benefits of LiF. In addition, LiF is also applied to Al metal which is known to be more Earth abundant than Au, expecting the similar positive effects of the inserted LiF. When 35 CVD‐grown MoS2 channel FETs with Au are characterized on an identical gate dielectric substrate, the higher value of mobility ranging 55–60 cm2 V s−1 is achieved with the inserted LiF than that without LiF (≈20 cm2 V s−1). In the case of another MoS2 FET with exfoliated flake channel and Al contact, its field‐effect mobility with LiF insertion appears to be ≈35 cm2 V s−1, approaching to an almost Rc‐free mobility (42 cm2 V s−1).
Self‐Regenerative Ni‐Doped CaTiO3/CaO for Integrated CO2 Capture and Dry Reforming of Methane
Authors: Jo Seongbin , Gilliard‐AbdulAziz Kandis Leslie
Published: April 2024

In this work, a new type of multifunctional materials (MFMs) called self‐regenerative Ni‐doped CaTiO3/CaO is introduced for the integrated CO2 capture and dry reforming of methane (ICCDRM). These materials consist of a catalytically active Ni‐doped CaTiO3 and a CO2 sorbent, CaO. The article proposes a concept where the Ni catalyst can be regenerated in situ, which is crucial for ICCDRM. Exsolved Ni nanoparticles are evenly distributed on the surface of CaTiO3 under H2 or CH4, and are re‐dispersed back into the CaTiO3 lattice under CO2. The Ni‐doped CaTiO3/CaO MFMs show stable CO2 capture capacity and syngas productivity for 30 cycles of ICCDRM. The presence of CaTiO3 between CaO grains prevents CaO/CaCO3 thermal sintering during carbonation and decarbonation. Moreover, the strong interaction of CaTiO3 with exsolved Ni mitigates severe accumulation of coke deposition. This concept can be useful for developing MFMs with improved properties that can advance integrated carbon capture and conversion.