bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Materials to Construct a Complementary Interface with Versatility for Li–S Batteries
Authors: Yang Ke , Zhao Fei , Li Juan , Yang Haoyuan , Wang Yichen , He Yibo
Published: August 2024

Polysulfides shuttle and lithium dendrites growth greatly restricts the practical application of lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs). A rational designed separator combined polysulfide catalyst and lithium regulator can achieve the effect of killing two birds with one stone. Herein, organic–inorganic hybrid materials are designed to construct a complementary interface for LSBs. Specially, two kinds of covalent organic frameworks (COF) with different pore size are in situ grown on the MXene surface by forming Ti–N bond. The high electronic conductivity and abundant surface functional groups of MXene allow it to work as a catalyst to effectively accelerate the polysulfides conversion, while COF can be used as an ion calibrator to guide homogeneous lithium deposition. As expected, the MXene@COF (MCOF) integrated separator realizes complementary advantages that enable a Li||Li symmetric cell to achieve a surprisingly stable lithium plating/stripping process up to 4750 h at 10 mA cm−2. Furthermore, the assembled LSBs exhibit high capacities of 584/563 mAh g−1 at 3 C and low‐capacity decay rates of 0.042%/0.048% per cycle after 1000 cycles at 1 C. This work proposes a strategy of complementary advantages based on the MXene and COF composites in the interface layer, which is of great significance for the separator construction of high‐performance LSBs.
Muscle‐Inspired Formable Wood‐Based Phase Change Materials
Authors: Liu Yifan , Lv Zhisheng , Zhou Jiazuo , Cui Zequn , Li Wenlong , Yu Jing , Chen Lixun , Wang Xin , Wang Meng , Liu Kunyang , Wang Hui , Ji Xinyao , Hu Senwei , Li Jian , Loh Xian Jun , Yang Haiyue , Chen Xiaodong , Wang Chengyu
Published: August 2024

Phase change materials (PCMs) are crucial for sustainable thermal management in energy‐efficient construction and cold chain logistics, as they can store and release renewable thermal energy. However, traditional PCMs suffer from leakage and a loss of formability above their phase change temperatures, limiting their shape stability and versatility. Inspired by the muscle structure, formable PCMs with a hierarchical structure and solvent‐responsive supramolecular networks based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/wood composites are developed. The material, in its hydrated state, demonstrates low stiffness and pliability due to the weak hydrogen bonding between aligned wood fibers and PVA molecules. Through treatment of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) into the PVA/wood PEG gel (PEG/PVA/W) with strengthened hydrogen bonds, the resulting wood‐based PCMs in the hard and melting states elevate the tensile stress from 10.14 to 80.86 MPa and the stiffness from 420 MPa to 4.8 GPa, making it 530 times stiffer than the PEG/PVA counterpart. Capable of morphing in response to solvent changes, these formable PCMs enable intricate designs for thermal management. Furthermore, supported by a comprehensive life cycle assessment, these shape‐adaptable, recyclable, and biodegradable PCMs with lower environmental footprint present a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics and thermal management materials.
An Acceptor–Donor–Acceptor Structured Nano‐Aggregate for NIR‐Triggered Interventional Photoimmunotherapy of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Niu Gaoli , Bi Xingqi , Kang Yong , Zhao Hua , Li Ruiyan , Ding Mengbin , Zhou Baoli , Zhai Yanhong , Ji Xiaoyuan , Chen Yongsheng
Published: August 2024

Compared with conventional therapies, photoimmunotherapy offers precise targeted cancer treatment with minimal damage to healthy tissues and reduced side effects, but its efficacy may be limited by shallow light penetration and the potential for tumor resistance. Here, an acceptor–donor‐acceptor (A‐D‐A)‐structured nanoaggregate is developed with dual phototherapy, including photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT), triggered by single near‐infrared (NIR) light. Benefiting from strong intramolecular charge transfer (ICT), the A–D–A‐structured nanoaggregates exhibit broad absorption extending to the NIR region and effectively suppressed fluorescence, which enables deep penetration and efficient photothermal conversion (η = 67.94%). A suitable HOMO–LUMO distribution facilitates sufficient intersystem crossing (ISC) to convert ground‐state oxygen (3O2) to singlet oxygen (1O2) and superoxide anions (·O2−), and catalyze hydroxyl radical (·OH) generation. The enhanced ICT and ISC effects endow the A–D–A structured nanoaggregates with efficient PTT and PDT for cervical cancer, inducing efficient immunogenic cell death. In combination with clinical aluminum adjuvant gel, a novel photoimmunotherapy strategy for cervical cancer is developed and demonstrated to significantly inhibit primary and metastatic tumors in orthotopic and intraperitoneal metastasis cervical cancer animal models. The noninvasive therapy strategy offers new insights for clinical early‐stage and advanced cervical cancer treatment.
Infectious and Inflammatory Microenvironment Self‐Adaptive Artificial Peroxisomes with Synergetic Co‐Ru Pair Centers for Programmed Diabetic Ulcer Therapy
Authors: Gao Yang , Deng Yuting , Geng Wei , Xiao Sutong , Wang Ting , Xu Xiaohui , Adeli Mohsen , Cheng Liang , Qiu Li , Cheng Chong
Published: August 2024

Complex microenvironments with bacterial infection, persistent inflammation, and impaired angiogenesis are the major challenges in chronic refractory diabetic ulcers. To address this challenge, a comprehensive strategy with highly effective and integrated antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory, and accelerated angiogenesis will offer a new pathway to the rapid healing of infected diabetic ulcers. Here, inspired by the tunable reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulation properties of natural peroxisomes, this work reports the design of infectious and inflammatory microenvironments self‐adaptive artificial peroxisomes with synergetic Co‐Ru pair centers (APCR) for programmed diabetic ulcer therapy. Benefiting from the synergistic Co and Ru atoms, the APCR can simultaneously achieve ROS production and metabolic inhibition for bacterial sterilization in the infectious microenvironment. After disinfection, the APCR can also eliminate ROS to alleviate oxidative stress in the inflammatory microenvironment and promote wound regeneration. The data demonstrate that the APCR combines highly effective antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, and provascular regeneration capabilities, making it an efficient and safe nanomedicine for treating infectious and inflammatory diabetic foot ulcers via a programmed microenvironment self‐adaptive treatment pathway. This work expects that synthesizing artificial peroxisomes with microenvironments self‐adaptive and bifunctional enzyme‐like ROS regulation properties will provide a promising path to construct ROS catalytic materials for treating complex diabetic ulcers, trauma, or other infection‐caused diseases.
Controlling Charged State Colors in Triphenylamine‐Based Anodically Coloring Electrochromes
Authors: Wagner Justine S. , Siegler Maxime A. , Tomlinson Aimée L. , Reynolds John R.
Published: August 2024

A series of anodically coloring electrochromic molecules comprised of thioalkyl‐substituted 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophenes coupled to triphenylamine units that vary in position and degree of electron rich character of the substituents are reported, which influences the molecules geometric, electrochemical, optoelectronic, and excited‐state properties. Their redox properties are evaluated and it is discovered that modulation of both the first and second oxidation potential, formation of the cation radical, and dication respectively, can be varied from 0.03 to 0.18 V and 0.32 to 0.46 V versus Fc/Fc+ respectively. For the first time in ACE‐based molecular systems, the ability to vary the electrochemical potential separation between successive charge states is demonstrated, which directly influences the generation of color. The chemical oxidant, ferric triflate, is used to visualize the vibrantly colored cation radical solutions at 1 equivalent, followed by a second equivalent that opens a new and differing color palette for the dication state. Optical transitions are probed during electrochemical oxidation using an optically transparent thin layer electrode demonstrating selective control in generating successive charge states. Density functional theory simulations are used to analyze the excited state and elucidate how substituent identity affects the neutral, cation radical, and dication optical transitions, and thereby the resulting color.
Modeling and Numerical Insights of TiSe2 Compound‐Based Photodetector
Authors: Miah Md. Rashed , Ebon Md. Islahur Rahman , Abir Ahnaf Tahmid , Hossain Jaker
Published: August 2024

This study presents a comprehensive simulation of a TiSe2‐based photodetector, an optoelectronic device adept at converting a spectrum of electromagnetic radiation spanning ultraviolet (UV), visible, and infrared wavelengths into electrical signals. The TiSe2 absorber material is characterized by a narrow direct bandgap of 1.2 eV, endowing the photodetector with superior optical and electronic attributes that enhance its photodetection capabilities. In‐depth analysis of the energy band diagram, the current‐voltage (J‐V) characteristics, and spectral responses is conducted. This article involves in methodical variations in the thickness, doping levels, and defect density across different layers to achieve optimal performance. The photodetector's current, JSC, and voltage, VOC are recorded at 37.30 mA cm−2 and 0.795 V, in turn. Additionally, the device achieves a peak responsivity, R of 0.67 A W−1 and a detectivity, D* of 12.9 × 1014 Jones at a wavelength of 920 nm. Notably, the spectral response is significantly enhanced between 760 and 1010 nm, indicating the photodetector's proficient detection of near‐infrared (NIR) light. The findings underscore the potential of TiSe2 as an effective material for photodetector applications, marking a significant advancement in the field and paving the way for future research endeavors in photodetector technology.
2D Model for Ca2+$Ca^{2+}$ Dynamics Regulating IP3$IP_3$, ATP and Insulin in A Pancreatic β$\beta$‐Cell
Authors: Vaishali Vaishali , Adlakha Neeru
Published: August 2024

The regulation of insulin in pancreatic ‐cells is dependent on changes in the cytoplasmic calcium concentration . The well‐balanced influx and efflux routes are required for insulin secretion. Therefore, this research presents a simplified yet valuable model for investigating calcium dynamics in a ‐cell under 2D unsteady state conditions. The model integrates diffusion, reactions involving sources, excess buffers, and fluxes, including efflux through leak and SERCA mechanisms. Boundary and initial conditions are tailored to ‐cell physiology. Numerical solutions are computed using the finite element method with co‐axial circular elements, chosen for their effectiveness in discretizing the cell domain and improving accuracy. This approach minimizes errors, enhancing predictive fidelity and capturing the intricate geometries and dynamics within ‐cells. The model's findings highlight the influence of buffers and source influx on calcium regulation, and integrate temporal fluctuations in IP3(Inositol 1,4,5‐Trisphosphate) synthesis and degradation, Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) generation, insulin release, and metabolic processes. Computational analysis suggests disruptions in cellular energy production and metabolite distribution may underlie conditions like metabolic syndrome and diabetes. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of ‐cell biology, potentially informing therapeutic strategies for related disorders.
Atypical noncontiguous TSC2/PKD1 gene deletions presenting as tuberous sclerosis/polycystic kidney disease contiguous gene syndrome
Authors: Ventayol‐Guirado Marc , Torres Laura , Asensio‐Landa Victor , Pérez‐Granero Ángeles , Madrid Maria Isabel , Hernandez‐Rodriguez Jessica , Llull‐Alberti Maria Victoria , Lumbreras Javier , Escribà Silvia , Pons Monserrat , Roldan Jordi , Martínez‐López Iciar , Heine‐Suñer Damian , Santos‐Simarro Fernando
Published: August 2024

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) are genetically distinct disorders typically associated with pathogenic variants in TSC1 and TSC2 for the former and PKD1 and PKD2 for the latter. TSC2 and PKD1 lie adjacent to each other, and large deletions comprising both genes lead to TSC2/PKD1 contiguous gene deletion syndrome (CGS). In this study, we describe a young female patient exhibiting symptoms of TSC2/PKD1 CGS in which genetic analysis disclosed two noncontiguous partial gene deletions in TSC2 and PKD1 that putatively are responsible for the manifestations of the syndrome. Further analysis revealed that both deletions appear to be de novo on the maternal chromosome, presumably with a germline origin. Despite extensive analysis, no maternal chromosomal rearrangement triggering these pathogenic variants was detected. This case elucidates a unique pathogenesis for TSC2/PKD1 CGS, diverging from the common contiguous deletions typically observed, marking the first reported instance of TSC2/PKD1 CGS caused by independent, functionally significant partial gene deletions.
Remove hazardous textile dyes using polyampholytes derived from polyethyleneimine
Authors: Reyes‐Angeles Mari Carmen , Trejo‐Carbajal Nayely , Caldera‐Villalobos Martin , Herrera‐González Ana M.
Published: August 2024

Many processes can be used to remove toxic pollutants from wastewater. Adsorption process has been an important issue in water pollution control. In this research, work describes a facile procedure for synthetizing two polyampholytes through chemical modification of polyethyleneimine and their efficacy as adsorbent materials. The presence of amino and sulfonic acid groups in both polyelectrolytes gives them the property of ionic exchange, classifying them as polyampholytes. The adsorptive properties of both polyelectrolytes were evaluated in aqueous solutions with two acid dyes, Congo Red (DR28) and Eriochrome Black (MB11), and two basic dyes, Malachite Green (BG4) and Methylene Blue (BB9). These dyes possess anionic or cationic groups that interact electrostatically with these new polyampholytes that allow the adsorption. The kinetic study of adsorption for both polyelectrolytes, with all dyes, fits well with the pseudo second order model, demonstrating the chemisorption process. The adsorption percentage of both polyelectrolytes with cationic dyes is closer to 100%. The polyampholytes show adsorption capacity values ranging, with cationic dyes, from 270 to 416 mg g−1, as conventional ion exchange resins.
Do We Really Believe That “More Is Better”? Mapping Implicit and Explicit Associations Between Quantity and Quality
Authors: Vences Mariana , Loureiro Filipe , Garcia‐Marques Teresa
Published: August 2024

The dimensions of quantity and quality play a crucial role in shaping our judgments and decisions. How these dimensions are perceived in relation to each other is of extreme importance when it comes to those decisions and judgments. The presumed positive link between them, embodied in the notion that “the more, the better,” is a common thread in decision‐making. However, owing to the diverse contexts within which decisions unfold, individuals appear to acquire the understanding that such relationship is not universally applicable, leading to profess the belief that “quantity is not quality.” This dichotomy establishes a dissociation between the implicit and explicit associations formed regarding the connection between quantity and quality. In two studies, we put this hypothesis to the test. Initially, we explore the nature of this association through an Implicit Association Test (Study 1), followed by an investigation into the modulation of this association within an ecological context (Study 2). The results show that, explicitly, participants assert no inherent relationship between quantity and quality. However, at an implicit level, with consequential impacts on behavior, a robust positive association between quantity and quality persists, providing challenging to overturn.
Income differences in time to colon cancer diagnosis
Authors: Davis Laura E. , Strumpf Erin C. , Patel Sunil V. , Mahar Alyson L.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

People with low income have worse outcomes throughout the cancer care continuum; however, little is known about income and the diagnostic interval. We described diagnostic pathways by neighborhood income and investigated the association between income and the diagnostic interval.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of colon cancer patients diagnosed 2007–2019 in Ontario using routinely collected data. The diagnostic interval was defined as the number of days from the first colon cancer encounter to diagnosis. Asymptomatic pathways were defined as first encounter with a colonoscopy or guaiac fecal occult blood test not occurring in the emergency department and were examined separately from symptomatic pathways. Quantile regression was used to determine the association between neighborhood income quintile and the conditional 50th and 90th percentile diagnostic interval controlling for age, sex, rural residence, and year of diagnosis.

Results

A total of 64,303 colon cancer patients were included. Patients residing in the lowest income neighborhoods were more likely to be diagnosed through symptomatic pathways and in the emergency department. Living in low‐income neighborhoods was associated with longer 50th and 90th‐percentile symptomatic diagnostic intervals compared to patients living in the highest income neighborhoods. For example, the 90th percentile diagnostic interval was 15 days (95% CI 6–23) longer in patients living in the lowest income neighborhoods compared to the highest.

Conclusion

These findings reveal income inequities during the diagnostic phase of colon cancer. Future work should determine pathways to reducing inequalities along the diagnostic interval and evaluate screening and diagnostic assessment programs from an equity perspective.
Participant factors associated with psychosocial impacts of lung cancer screening: A systematic review
Authors: McFadden Kathleen , Nickel Brooke , Rankin Nicole M. , Li Tong , Jennett Chloe J. , Sharman Ashleigh , Quaife Samantha L. , Houssami Nehmat , Dodd Rachael H.
Published: August 2024

Background

Psychosocial impacts of lung cancer screening (LCS) can cause both harm to individuals and serve as barriers to screening participation and adherence. Early data suggest that the psychosocial impacts of LCS are moderated by certain factors (e.g. sociodemographic characteristics and beliefs), but evidence synthesis is lacking. This systematic review aimed to understand individual‐level risk factors for psychosocial burden during LCS as a precursor to developing strategies to identify and support participants, and improve LCS engagement.

Methods

Four databases were searched for full‐text articles published in English reporting any association between participant factors and psychosocial outcomes experienced during LCS. Study quality was assessed by two independent investigators; findings were synthesised narratively. The review was pre‐registered with PROSPERO and adhered to PRISMA guidelines.

Results

Thirty‐five articles were included; most (33/35) studies were assessed at high or moderate risk of bias. Study designs were pre‐post (n = 13), cross‐sectional (n = 13), qualitative (n = 8) and mixed‐methods (n = 1) and conducted primarily in the United States (n = 17). Psychological burden in LCS varied, and was often associated with younger age, female gender, current smoking status or increased smoking history, lower education, lower socio‐economic group, not being married or co‐habiting and experience with cancer. However, results were mixed, and non‐significant associations were also reported across all factors. Beliefs (e.g. fatalism, stigma and expectation of LDCT results) and comorbid psychological burden were also linked to psychosocial outcomes, but evidence was sparse. Associations between risk perception, other participant factors and other psychosocial outcomes was inconclusive, likely reflecting individual biases in risk conceptualisation.

Conclusion(s)

Several participant factors are consistently reported to be associated with psychosocial impacts of LCS, though study heterogeneity and high risk of bias necessitate more robust evaluation. Further research on how perceptions, beliefs and expectations can be used to improve psychosocial outcomes during LCS is needed.
Cardiovascular mortality in people with cancer compared to the general population: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ng Huah Shin , Meng Rosie , Marin Tania S. , Damarell Raechel A. , Buckley Elizabeth , Selvanayagam Joseph B. , Koczwara Bogda
Published: August 2024

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of non‐cancer death in cancer survivors, but the risk of CVD varies between cancers.

Objectives

To synthesise available evidence on patterns and magnitude of CVD mortality risk.

Methods

A systematic search of Medline (OVID), CINAHL and Scopus databases from 01‐January‐2000 to 16‐July‐2023 of studies of people with cancer, reporting CVD mortality in cancer population compared with a reference population (e.g. general population) as standardised mortality ratios (SMR). Meta‐analysis of SMRs across cancer and CVD types were pooled using a random‐effects model to allow for heterogeneity of the true effect size across studies.

Results

We identified 136 studies from 16 countries. Sample sizes ranged from 157 to 7,529,481. The majority (n = 98; 72%) were conducted in the United States, followed by Europe (n = 22; 16%). The most common cancers studied were gastrointestinal (n = 34 studies), haematological (n = 31) and breast (n = 29). A total of 876 CVD SMRs were extracted across diverse CVD conditions. Of those, the majority (535; 61%) indicated an increased risk of CVD death (SMR >1), 109 (12%) a lower risk of CVD death (SMR <1) and 232 (27%) an equivalent risk (95% CI of SMR included 1) compared to the general population. The meta‐analysis of all reported SMRs showed an increased risk of CVD death (SMR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.40–1.72) in cancer survivors compared with the general population. The SMR varied between CVD conditions and ranged from 1.36 (95% CI = 1.29–1.44) for heart diseases to 1.56 (95% CI = 1.39–1.76) for cerebrovascular diseases. SMR varied across cancer types, ranging from 1.14 (95% CI = 1.04–1.25) for testicular/germ cell tumours to 2.82 (95% CI = 2.20–3.63) for brain/central nervous system tumours.

Conclusions

Cancer survivors are at increased risk of premature CVD mortality compared to the general population, but the risk varies by cancer type and CVD. Future research should focus on understanding mechanisms behind the increased CVD risk to develop appropriate interventions.
Potentially functional variants of ERRFI1 in hypoxia‐related genes predict survival of non‐small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Wang Huilin , Liu Hongliang , Lu Guojun , Tang Xiaozhun , Luo Sheng , Du Mulong , Christiani David C. , Wei Qingyi
Published: August 2024

Background

Hypoxia is often involved in tumor microenvironment, and the hypoxia‐induced signaling pathways play a key role in aggressive cancer phenotypes, including angiogenesis, immune evasion, and therapy resistance. However, it is unknown what role genetic variants in the hypoxia‐related genes play in survival of patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

We evaluated the associations between 16,092 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 182 hypoxia‐related genes and survival outcomes of NSCLC patients. Data from the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial were used as the discovery dataset, and the Harvard Lung Cancer Susceptibility (HLCS) Study served as the replication dataset. We also performed additional linkage disequilibrium analysis and a stepwise multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis in the PLCO dataset.

Results

An independent SNP, ERRFI1 rs28624 A > C, was identified with an adjusted hazards ratio (HR) of 1.31 (95% CI = 1.14–1.51, p = 0.0001) for overall survival (OS). In further analyses, unfavorable genotypes AC and CC, compared with the AA genotype, were associated a worse OS (HR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.03–1.39, p = 0.014) and disease‐specific survival (HR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.04–1.42, p = 0.016). Further expression quantitative trait loci analysis indicated that ERRFI1 rs28624C genotypes were significantly associated with higher ERRFI1 mRNA expression levels in the whole blood. Additional analysis showed that high ERRFI1 mRNA expression levels were associated with a worse OS in patients with lung adenocarcinoma.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that genetic variants in the hypoxia‐related gene ERRFI1 may modulate NSCLC survival, potentially through their effect on the gene expression.
Evaluation of the association between predictive factors and the development of immune‐related adverse events and prognostic factors for chemoimmunotherapy in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer: A multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Ozawa Ryota , Sonehara Kei , Hachiya Tsutomu , Nozawa Shuhei , Agatsuma Toshihiko , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Kato Akane , Matsuo Akemi , Hirabayashi Taro , Araki Taisuke , Komatsu Masamichi , Tateishi Kazunari , Hanaoka Masayuki
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Chemoimmunotherapy is widely used as the first‐line management of advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in clinical settings. However, predictive factors associated with the development of immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) and prognostic factors for NSCLC patients undergoing chemoimmunotherapy remains largely unexplored. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to evaluate predictive factors for irAE development and prognostic factors associated with chemoimmunotherapy in NSCLC patients.

Methods

This study enrolled 199 patients with advanced and recurrent NSCLC who underwent chemoimmunotherapy across eight institutions in Nagano prefecture from December 2018 to January 2023. We examined predictive factors associated with irAE development and prognostic factors associated with overall survival (OS).

Results

Among the patients, 106 experienced irAEs, while 93 patients did not. A total of 44 (22.1%) patients developed multiple irAEs. High serum albumin levels (Alb >3.5 g/dL) emerged as an independent predictive factor associated with irAE development in logistic regression analysis (odds ratio; 2.35, 95% confidence interval 1.27–4.34, p = 0.007). Furthermore, the development of multiple irAEs (p = 0.016), lower lactate dehydrogenase level (<223 U/L, p = 0.002), and decreased neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (<3, p = 0.049) were identified as independent favorable prognostic factors associated with OS in multivariate Cox hazard analyses.

Conclusion

The study results suggest that high serum Alb is a predictive factor for irAE development and that the presence of multiple irAEs is a favorable prognostic indicator for NSCLC patients undergoing chemoimmunotherapy.
Survival improvements in esophageal and gastric cancers in the Nordic countries favor younger patients
Authors: Hemminki Kari , Zitricky Frantisek , Försti Asta , Hemminki Otto , Liska Vaclav , Hemminki Akseli
Published: August 2024

Esophageal cancer (EC) and gastric cancer (GC) are fatal cancers with a relatively late age of onset. Age is a negative risk factor for survival in many cancers and our aim was to analyze age‐specific survival in EC and GC using the recently updated NORDCAN database. NORDCAN data originate from the Danish, Finnish, Norwegian, and Swedish nationwide cancer registries covering years 1972 through 2021 inviting for comparison of 50‐year survival trends between the countries. Relative 1‐ and 5‐year survival and 5/1‐year conditional survival (i.e., survival in those who were alive in Year 1 to survive additional 4 years) were analyzed. Survival in EC showed large gains for patients below age 80 years, 5‐year survival in Norwegian men reaching 30% and in women over 30% but for 80–89 year old survival remained at 10%. In contrast, hardly any gain was seen among the 80–89 year patients for 1‐year survival and small gains in 5 year and 5/1‐year survival. Survival gaps between age‐groups increased over time. For GC there was also a clear age‐related negative survival gradient but the survival gaps between the age groups did not widen over time; Norwegian male and female 5‐year survival for 80–89 year old was about 20%. The age‐specific survival difference in GC arose in Year 1 and did not essentially increase in 5‐year survival. While there were differences in survival improvements between the countries, poor survival of the 80–89 year old patients was shared by all of them. To conclude, survival has improved steadily in younger GC and EC patients in most Nordic countries. While the 80–89 year old population accounts for nearly a quarter of all patients and their poor survival depressed overall survival, which can therefore be increased further by improving diagnostics, treatment and care of elderly EC and GC patients.
The effectiveness of psychological interventions for people experiencing homelessness: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bodley‐Scott Elizabeth , Ward Rebecca J. , Tarabay Jennifer , Fagbamigbe Adeniyi Francis , Barker Stephanie , Maguire Nick
Published: August 2024

Homelessness is a complex social, economic and psychological issue, and compared with the general population, people experiencing homelessness suffer disproportionately from mental health and substance use issues. Evidence suggests that psychological interventions can improve the quality‐of‐life of people experiencing homelessness. A systematic review and meta‐analysis were conducted on studies identified in five databases. Global studies published before July 2023 were included. A total of 35 studies were identified from 30 independent trials conducted in five countries. Outcomes were divided into six domains: substance use, mental health, psychological wellbeing, health behaviour, antisocial behaviour and social outcomes. A meta‐analysis was performed on data from 22 studies investigating outcomes of substance use, abstinence, anxiety, depression and PTSD. Evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of psychological interventions for a range of outcomes affecting people experiencing homelessness. Cognitive behaviour therapy and motivational interviewing were deemed particularly effective across a range of outcomes and were also considered a cost‐effective option. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
Photoelectrocatalytic [4+2] Annulation for S‐Heterocycle Assembly Enabled by Proton‐Coupled Electron Transfer (PCET)
Authors: Cheng Yuan‐Yuan , Xu Jiawei , Lin Zhipeng , Li Yanjun , Ackermann Lutz
Published: August 2024

Cross‐dehydrogenative couplings (CDC) present an efficient strategy for the assembly of biorelevant heterocycles, but are thus far largely limited to toxic transition metals and rather harsh reaction conditions. In sharp contrast, we, herein report on a mild photoelectrocatalyzed CDC‐[4+2] annulation enabling the synthesis of functionalized isothiochromenes enabled by a proton‐coupled electron transfer (PCET) strategy. The transformative photoelectrocatalysis obviated toxic transition‐metal, high reaction temperatures, and stoichiometric chemical redox reagents. This approach was characterized by exceedingly mild conditions, ample substrate scope, and a commercially available catalyst. Gram‐scale reactions and a telescoped synthesis route reflected the unique potential in the green synthesis of important S‐heterocycles.
Magnetic Chitosan/ZrO2 Composites for Vanadium(V) Adsorption while Concurrently being Transformed to a Dual Functional Catalyst
Authors: Zhang Jun , Zhi Fupeng , Hou Wei , Zhang Long , Huo Ting , Gu Rongqi , Fan Rong , Wang Xin , Ren Guopei , Wang Huizhu , Kong Weishuo , Ran Haifan , Jiang Feifei , Bian Ruiting , Wen Jiahang , Guo Lei , Jiao Zhongyi , Kang Guojian , Chen Zhenbin
Published: August 2024

Spent adsorbents for recycling as catalysts have drawn considerable attention due to their environmentally benign chemistry properties. However, traditional thermocatalytic strategies limit their applications. Here, we developed an enhanced photocatalytic strategy to expand the range of their applications. A magnetic chitosan/ZrO2 composites (MZT) for V(V) adsorption, which were prepared using chitosan, ZrO2 and Fe3O4 by one‐pot synthesis. The spent MZT as a catalyst was used to synthesize 2‐phenyl‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazole, yielding up to 89.7 %. It also was implemented to photocatalysis reactions for recycle. The discolored rates of rhodamine B (RhB) were 72.3 % and 97.4 % by new and spent MZT, respectively. The new and spent MZT showed the forbidden bands were 251 nm and 561 nm, respectively. The result displayed spent MZT red shifted to the cyan light region. The mechanism of catalysis also has been studied in detail.
Crystallization Behavior of Co‐Doped Amorphous Manganese Dioxide and Its Cathode Performance for Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Yana , Zhao Fangxia , Chen Haoyi , Tang Xingfeng , Zhang Zhenzhong , Gu Chengyang , Chang Hong
Published: August 2024

In order to explore the crystallization behavior of Co‐doped amorphous manganese dioxide(Co‐doped AMO) and to investigate the electrochemical properties of its different crystallization products as cathodes for aqueous zinc ion batteries. In this work, the effects of heat treatment temperature on the microstructure and phase composition of Co‐doped AMO and their electrochemical properties of Zn‐MnO2 battery cathode materials are systematically investigated. The results show that Co‐doping increases the crystallization temperature of pure AMO. When the heat treatment temperature is 400 °C, Co‐doped AMO is amorphous. At 500 and 550 °C, part of the Co‐doped AMO crystallizes into tetragonal spinel structured (Co, Mn)(Co, Mn)2O4 material between MnCo2O4 and Mn3O4. At 650 °C, the crystallized product is completely nano‐α‐Mn(Co)O2 crystal. The maximum discharge specific capacities and the retention rate after 100 cycles of the samples at 100 mA g−1 are 325.40 mAh g−1, 86.88%; 217.00 mAh g−1, 13.94%; 186.68 mAh g−1, 41.01%; and 149.03 mAh g−1, 31.27% for the unheated and 400, 550, 650 °C heat‐treated samples, respectively. It is proved that the Co‐doped AMO without heat treatment is superior to the partially or fully crystallized materials in terms of comprehensive performance and cost as cathode materials for AZIB.
Cross‐sectional analysis of pharmaceutical industry payments to board‐certified breast cancer specialists in Japan
Authors: Murayama Anju , Higuchi Kenichi , Kugo Hinari
Published: August 2024

Financial interactions between pharmaceutical companies and physicians introduce conflicts of interest among physicians, and can unduly influence physicians' clinical decision‐making, such as increased use of non‐recommended cancer treatments and higher healthcare expenditures. Breast cancer is the most common cancer for which there is a growing number of novel treatments. Nevertheless, the financial relationships between pharmaceutical companies and physicians treating patients with breast cancer remain unknown. Using payment data disclosed by major pharmaceutical companies in Japan between 2016 and 2020, this study examined size and trends in non‐research payments from the pharmaceutical companies to breast cancer specialists who were board‐certified by the Japanese Breast Cancer Society. A total of $17.2 million were made to 1349 or 77.8% of all board‐certified breast cancer specialists over the five years. Of all specialists, 41.9% to 55.5% received the payments each year. The median payments per specialist were $1,149–$1,371 annually. Only 5op 1% and 10% of all specialists received 24.7% and 70.3% of all payments to the specialists. The payments per specialist significantly increased by 9.9% (95% confidence interval: 6.713.1, p < 0.001) from 2016 to 2019, but decreased by 29.6% (95% CI: −34.4 to −24.5, p < 0.001) in 2020 when the COVID‐19 pandemic occurred. Given that even a small payment to physicians is associated with their clinical practice, it is imperative that these breast cancer specialists are more aware of the potential influence of payments on their decision‐making.
Analysis of 3D positioning error for multipath indoor VLC system
Authors: Rangappa Karibasappa , Kumar Ajit
Published: August 2024

A comparative analysis of 3D positioning error for two different configurations using different layouts of visible light communication (VLC) systems is presented in this paper. The Received Signal Strength (RSS) has been implemented for indoor localization systems using Line‐of‐Sight (LoS) and diffused reflection signals. The room size for configuration‐1 is 5 m × 5 m × 3 m, and the distance between adjacent LEDs is 2.5 m, 2.00 m, and 1.5 m for cases‐1, case‐2, and case‐3, respectively, whereas the room size for configuration‐2 is 7 m × 7 m × 5 m, and the separation between the LEDs is 3.5 m, 3 m, and 2.5 m for their respective cases. Through investigation, it has been shown that when only LS signal is considered, the separation between LEDs may not be an issue because positioning error changes by a very small amount as the separation between LEDs changes. The results show that as the distance between adjacent LEDs decreases, the received signal strength for LoS and L‐R1 signals increases. However, positioning error and BER rise, while the bit rate falls. Furthermore, the positioning error Vs receiver plane height for all three cases in configuration‐1 is the same up to a height of 2.89 m, whereas the positioning error in configuration‐2 is the same up to 4.4 m for all cases. The positioning error for case‐1 decreases as the height in configuration‐1 exceeds 2.89 m. Similarly, after reaching a height of 4.4 m for case‐2, the positioning error in configuration‐2 decreases. The LoS positioning error versus semi angle
of the LED as well as the FOV of the receiver has been simulated for different positions of the receiver in configuration‐1. The investigation shows that the minimum positioning error is achieved at
and FOV equal to 66.660 for all the positions of the receiver in the room. Thus, before configuring a practical indoor VLC geometrical model, proper VLC configurations such as LED separation, FOV of the receiver, semi angle of LED, and receiver height should be chosen based on the room dimensions.
Recent Progress on the Synthesis, Biological Activity of Fused Pyrimidines from Azole Amines
Authors: Zhuang Yumeng , Wang Xianzhang , Liu Bowen , Yao Lei
Published: August 2024

Fused pyrimidines are a class of heterocyclic compounds that have gained considerable interest due to their extensive biological activities and potential applications in drug development. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest synthetic approaches to fused pyrimidines, including Michael reactions, multicomponent reactions, metal‐catalyzed reactions, photocatalytic reactions, peroxide‐mediated reactions, and inverse electron demand Diels–Alder reactions. Furthermore, the biological activities of these compounds, such as their ability to combat cancer and microbial infections, are also discussed. This review article summarizes the existing literature on the synthesis and biological activity of fused pyrimidines from 2020 to 2023. We hope this review article will inspire the development of more effective and less toxic fused pyrimidine drugs with well‐designed structures.
Huperzine A suppresses absence seizures in the genetic absence epilepsy rat from Strasbourg (GAERS) model of genetic generalized epilepsy with absence seizures
Authors: Casillas‐Espinosa Pablo M. , Garcia‐Olivares Jennie , Li Rui , Li Crystal , Yu Chungping , Formella Andrea E. , O'Brien Terence J.
Published: August 2024

Objective

We evaluated huperzine A treatment in the Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rat from Strasbourg (GAERS) model of genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE) with absence seizures.

Methods

Adult male GAERS (N = 15) were implanted with EEG recording electrodes 10 days before receiving study drug. Each animal received the following six treatments as a single, intraperitoneal dose, 7 days apart (in random order): huperzine A (0.3, 1.0, or 3.0 mg/kg), two periods of vehicle (0.9% NaCl), or ethosuximide (100 mg/kg) as a positive control. Electroencephalograms (EEGs) were acquired for 24 h before and after each treatment and analyzed for seizure activity during the 90‐min period immediately post‐treatment, including 30‐min intervals at 30, 60, and 90 min. Additional analyses evaluated seizure activity over the 24‐h post‐treatment period using 60‐min intervals at 6, 12, and 24 h. The cumulative 24‐h periods before and after each administered treatment were also compared.

Results

Two‐way ANOVA showed a treatment difference [F(91,182) = 3.592, p < 0.0001] on the number of seizures over the first 90‐min post‐treatment (primary outcome); Tukey's post hoc analyses showed that, compared to vehicle, huperzine A (3.0 mg/kg) significantly reduced seizures in the 30‐min (p = 0.02) and 60‐min (p = 0.001) intervals, and ethosuximide significantly reduced seizures at all measured time intervals except the 1‐h blocks at 12 and 24 h. Huperzine A 3.0 mg/kg and ethosuximide significantly reduced seizures during the cumulative 24‐h post‐treatment period relative to pretreatment baseline. While huperzine A 3.0 mg/kg did not differ significantly from ethosuximide at any time point, the study was not designed to evaluate non‐inferiority. The only adverse event after huperzine A or ethosuximide was mild, dose‐dependent sedation.

Significance

Huperzine A potently suppressed absence‐like seizures in GAERS, albeit with a shorter duration of action relative to ethosuximide, showing promise for clinical efficacy in GGE.

Plain Language Summary

This study looked at how huperzine A affects seizures in rats with similar abnormal brain activity as seen in humans with absence epilepsy. Rats received different treatments, placebo (i.e., saline solution), huperzine A, and ethosuximide. Ethosuximide is considered a gold standard treatment for absence epilepsy. We recorded brain activity to measure seizures before and after each treatment. We found that huperzine A (3.0 mg/kg) reduced seizures soon after treatment, like ethosuximide. Both treatments appeared safe, causing only mild sleepiness. The study shows that huperzine A could be a good new treatment for a type of absence epilepsy.
High frequency volatility of oil futures in China: Components, modeling, and prediction
Authors: Hong Yi , Xu Xiaofan , Yang Chen
Published: August 2024

This paper investigates the high‐frequency volatility modeling and prediction for crude oil futures in China, a new asset class emerging in recent years. Two volatility measures, the realized variance (
) and realized bi‐power variations (
) are constructed at various frequencies by virtue of 1‐minute crude oil futures prices. The distinctive components of these volatility estimators are further identified to exploit the information contents in the in‐sample explanatory power of the realized variance dynamics and the out‐of‐sample prediction of realized variance across different horizons, leading to four new HAR‐RV‐type models. First, the empirical results show that the continuous component of the weekly realized variance, representing investors' trading behavior in the medium‐term, is the dominant factor driving up volatility trends in China's crude oil futures market over a range of market conditions. Second, the monthly jump component in realized variance presents the significant in‐sample explanatory power, and yet marginally improves prediction performance in realized variance during the two out‐of‐sample periods. Finally, these results are robust toward various market/model setups, over day‐ and night‐trading hours, and across a range of prediction horizons and relative to prediction benchmarks.
Sequelae of carotid endarterectomy patch infection: An otolaryngologist perspective
Authors: Balouch Bailey , Gupta Aakanksha , Tjaden Bruce , Lombardi Joseph V. , Carpenter Jeffrey P. , Ahmad Nadir , Shapiro Yekaterina
Published: August 2024

Background

Postoperative carotid endarterectomy (CEA) patch infection is a rare but well‐recognized complication of CEA. It is important for otolaryngologists to be aware of the presentation and challenges in its diagnosis.

Methods

Patients who presented with a neck mass or hemorrhage and a known prior history of carotid endarterectomy with synthetic patch reconstruction were worked up with ultrasound, CT, or MRI imaging. In one case, fine needle aspiration biopsy was performed. Ultimately, all patients were taken to the operating room for neck exploration.

Results

Of the three patients presented in this case series, two presented with a chronic neck mass, two‐to‐three years after carotid endarterectomy. One patient presented acutely with hemorrhage from the carotid endarterectomy site. Carotid patch infection was diagnosed after neck exploration in all cases. Vascular surgery was consulted intra‐operatively to perform definitive vascular repair.

Conclusions

Infected carotid patch should be suspected in patients with a history of prior CEA, as many of the presenting complaints may resemble or mimic pathology managed by otolaryngology. The onset of symptoms can be perioperative or very delayed. A multidisciplinary approach with vascular surgery and infectious disease is required for appropriate management of these patients.
Scene construction processes in the anterior hippocampus during temporal episodic memory retrieval
Authors: Hwang Maria Jieun , Lee Sang Ah
Published: August 2024

Although the hippocampus has been implicated in both the temporal organization of memories and association of scene elements, some theoretical accounts posit that the role of the hippocampus in episodic memory is largely atemporal. In this study, we set out to explore this discrepancy by identifying hippocampal activity patterns related to scene construction while participants performed a temporal order memory task. Participants in the fMRI scanner were shown a sequence of photographs, each consisting of a central object and a contextual background scene. On each retrieval trial, participants were shown a pair of the original photographs (FULL), objects from the scenes without the background (OBJ), or background contexts without the main foreground object (BACK). In the temporal order judgment (TOJ) task, participants judged the temporal order of the pair of scenes; in the Viewing trials, two identical scenes were shown without any task. First, we found that the anterior hippocampus—particularly the CA1 and subiculum—showed similar patterns of activation between the BACK and OBJ conditions, suggesting that scene construction occurred spontaneously during both TOJ and Viewing. Furthermore, neural markers of scene construction in the anterior hippocampus did not apply to incorrect trials, showing that successful temporal memory retrieval was functionally linked to scene construction. In the cortex, time‐processing areas, such as the supplementary motor area and the precuneus, and scene‐processing areas, such as the parahippocampal cortex, were activated and functionally connected with the hippocampus. Together, these results support the view that the hippocampus is concurrently involved in scene construction and temporal organization of memory and propose a model of hippocampal episodic memory that takes both processes into account.