bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remodelado eléctrico reverso en pacientes tratados con terapia de resincronización cardíaca
Authors: Vázquez Joaquín , Ferrando Federico , Murguía Soledad , Ichazo José , Escobar Natalia , Cuesta Alejandro , Rivara Álvaro , Freire Diego
Published: February 2023

Introducción: La terapia de resincronización cardíaca (TRC) se indica en pacientes que habitualmente presentan remodelado cardíaco generado por dilatación y disincronía contráctil. La TRC contribuye al remodelado reverso, relacionado con menormortalidad y hospitalizaciones por insuficiencia cardíaca (IC). Se han observado además mejoras en la conducción intraventricular, con reducción del tiempo de activación. La cuantificación del remodelado eléctrico reverso se ha subutilizado como parámetro de respuesta, con escasos reportes sobre su asociación con la respuesta clínica-estructural.Objetivo: Analizar el remodelado eléctrico reverso intraventricular como parámetro de respuesta a la TRC.Métodos: Se incluyeron pacientes con más de 6 meses de implante. Se obtuvo un ECG con estimulación desactivada (QRS intrínseco, QRSi, post TRC), y por ecocardiograma transtorácico se definió la fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda (FEVI), el diámetro de fin de diástole del ventrículo izquierdo (DFDVI) y la presencia de insuficiencia mitral. Se clasificó a los pacientes según la respuesta clínica-estructural. El remodelado eléctrico se caracterizó con la comparación de la duración del QRS pre y post TRC y la valoración de los cambios del QRS (ΔQRSi) entre grupos.Resultados: Se incluyeron 23 pacientes. Un 39% presentó disminución >10 mseg del QRSi. Observamos un ΔQRSi de -9,3 ± 20,7 mseg en respondedores, y 11,25 ± 18,9 mseg en no respondedores (p = 0,027), más acentuada en los hiper respondedores (ΔQRSi: -14,44 ± 17,40 mseg, p = 0,026). Las mujeres con QRS ≥150 mseg pre TRC exhibieron disminución significativa delQRSi (p = 0,0195).
Conclusiones: El remodelado eléctrico reverso se comprobó en 39% de los pacientes que recibieron TRC. Observamos una relación significativa del ΔQRSi con la respuesta clínica-estructural, mayor en hiper respondedores. Mujeres con QRS ancho pre-TRC exhiben remodelado eléctrico reverso más acentuado. Este es un parámetro de fácil acceso e interpretación durante los controles ambulatorios.
Sindrome inflamatorio multisistémico en pediatría: importancia de la evaluación inicial de los parámetros de laboratorio
Authors: Rodríguez Kibrik Julián , Cazalas Mariana E. , Petrillo María Lucila , Guiñazú Gonzalo G. , Moros Claudio , Choe Hyon J. , Goldsman Alejandro , Grippo María , Sardella Angela , Balleani Silvia
Published: February 2023

Introducción: El síndrome inflamatorio multisistémico en pediatría (SIM-C) es una infrecuente entidad asociada a COVID-19 con un amplio espectro de presentación: desde un cuadro similar a la enfermedad de Kawasaki a una afectación multisistémica con shock. Se han descripto asociaciones entre valores de laboratorio y mala evolución, pero no existen puntos de corte que predigan la misma.Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue describir y analizar las características de los pacientes con SIM-C y las relaciones de estas con los hallazgos de laboratorio.Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio analítico y retrospectivo de niños internados con diagnóstico de SIM-C entre mayo 2020 y junio 2021 en el HNRG. Se estudiaron 32 pacientes, 17 femeninas (53,13%) y 15 masculinos (46,87%), edad promedio de 7,67 años (rango 0,5-14,91). Diez de los pacientes (31,25%) presentaron shock.Se obtuvieron datos clínicos, ecocardiográficos y valores de troponina I ultrasensible, NT-proBNP, plaquetas y linfocitos al momento del diagnóstico; y se analizaron comparativamente entre quienes presentaron shock durante la evolución (Grupo 1) y quienes no (Grupo 2).Resultados: La diferencia en un valor inicial de NT-proBNP elevado fue estadísticamente significativa entre ambos grupos (p=0,008), en tanto que la troponina y el recuento de linfocitos y plaquetas, no. De los 13 pacientes que requirieron inotrópicos, el 58% presentó linfopenia inicialmente (p <0,001).Conclusiones: Si bien la mortalidad debido al SIM-C es baja, la afectación cardiovascular y el compromiso hemodinámico en los pacientes que presentaron este síndrome puede ser frecuente. Poder contar con una herramienta de laboratorio ampliamente difundida para la categorización de pacientes podría ayudar a mitigar riesgos y obtener una derivación temprana a centros especializados.
Saliva as a Viable and Simple Alternative to Nasopharyngeal and Oropharyngeal Swabs for COVID-19 Real-Time Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Devi Leimapokpam Sumitra , Sharma Mukesh , Sardar Moumita
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Attributable to the difficulties in specimen collection, discomfort and symptoms caused on by Nasopharyngeal (NPS) and Oropharyngeal Swab (OPS) collection, and significant risk to Healthcare Workers (HCW), evaluation of an alternative specimen for the diagnosis of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is required. Saliva specimen could be an alternative specimen with many advantages over NPS and OPS, however little is known about how well it performs this purpose. Aim: The present study was conducted to assess the efficacy of saliva as a viable and simple alternative specimen to NPS and OPS for COVID-19 Real-Time reverse transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (rRT-PCR). Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, SGT Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Haryana, India, from July 2020 to December 2020. A total of 60 symptomatic and 20 asymptomatic COVID-19 patients were recruited for the study and specimen viz., saliva, NPS and OPS were collected at four different sampling points i.e., on day 1, 5, 7 and 14 after confirmation of COVID-19 rRT-PCR test positivity. Data obtained from the study was analysed and expressed as median, frequency, interquartile range and Chi-square test was done for comparison of categorical variables. Results: Majority of the patients in symptomatic hospitalised COVID-19 patients were males (n=49, 81.7%) and remaining were females (n=11, 18.3%) and in asymptomatic group 8 (40%) were males and 12 (60%) were females. Saliva was the most sensitive specimen (74.2%), followed by NPS, Naso Oropharyngeal Swab (NOPS) with 70.8% each and OPS (65.8%) for detection of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in symptomatic patients at four different sampling points. Comparable findings were also observed in specimens obtained from asymptomatic individuals as well. In addition, the viral load was also highest in saliva sample, as measured by Cycle Threshold (CT)-value. Across all specimen types, high viral load (lower CT-values) was observed during the early period of infection. Majority of the study participants reported discomfort during NPS and OPS collection (90% and 85%, respectively), lacrimation, sneezing and gag reflex being the most commonly reported induced symptoms. Conclusion: In the present study, saliva could be a viable and alternate specimen for COVID-19 diagnosis due to its ease in sample collection, specimen stability and reduced risk of transmission of infection due to droplets.
Service per Conception on Sheep in Langkat District
Authors: Sitepu Sukma Aditya , Kurniawan Media Agus , Marisa Julia , Hidayat Rahmad
Published: February 2023

Aims: To find out the Service per Conception of sheep in the Artificial Insemination program in Langkat Regency.

Study Design: Descriptive analysis.

Place and Duration of Study: Langkat Regency, Indonesia. between July 2022 and October 2022.

Methodology: Artificially inseminated sheep are 50 lambs using frozen semen. Data were obtained through interviews using questionnaires with sheep farmers. Data were analyzed descriptively.

Results: The results showed that the average Service per Conception observation value for sheep in Langkat Regency was 1.30 ± 0.20.

Conclusion: Service per Conception of sheep in Langkat Regency is still normal. But the management of maintenance and handling of Artificial Insemination needs to be improved.
India-China Agricultural Trade Based on Virtual Water: A Heckscher- Ohlin Approach
Authors: Kamesh T. M.
Published: February 2023

Aim: This paper provides the economics of Virtual Water (VW) exporting to other countries through major agricultural commodities from India. Virtual Water is interconnected with food sustainability and it is the amount of hidden water transferred to other countries through trade. India produces and exports high water-consuming products but contains only 2.56 per cent of total water available in our world. By analysing VW, the total VW export from and import to India and the comparative advantage in producing the commodity in India can be obtained.

Methodology: VW for major crops is estimated by dividing the total water required or applied for the specified crop by the total yield of the crop. In this paper, we computed the virtual water trade for the major crops in India and analysed the comparative advantage for India in producing the crop. The data required for the analysis are collected from various secondary sources like the Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES, GoI), Indian Agricultural Statistical Research Institute (IASRI), EXIM Bank, and FAO Aqua Stat.

Results: In the years 2018-19 and 2017-18, India exported 34515 MCM and 41080 MCM of VW through rice followed by 420 MCM and 622 MCM of VW through Wheat, 276 MCM and 184 MCM of VW through Maize. When comparing the production of rice and groundnut in China and India in water requirement aspect, India has the comparative advantage in the production of groundnut and china has the comparative advantage in the production of rice and also shows the same in the yield aspect.

Conclusion: With the growing water scarcity in India, we should shift the focus from the high-water requirement crop to the lower crop. In the end, we sort out the water scarcity problem and can attain sustainability.
Performance of Agri-warehousing in India
Authors: Sharon M. Mary , Kumar K. Nirmal Ravi
Published: February 2023

Warehouses are scientifically designed storage structures that protect the quantity and quality of stored products with necessary preservation methods. This study was conducted to assess the growth and performance of warehouses, Negotiable Warehouse Receipt (NWR) and electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipt (e-NWR) in India. Percentage analysis indicated that there is 102.42 per cent growth in the number of Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) warehouses with the average storage capacity of 106.78 lakh MT and that of State Warehousing Corporation (SWC) warehouses has growth of 105.25 per cent with 439.12 lakh MT average storage capacity. In 2017-18, Warehouse Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA) issued total 6447 NWRs for Rs. 313.66 crores value of deposited commodities and farmers got sanctioned the loan of Rs. 90.35 crores against NWRs. In 2019-20, WDRA issued total 134939 e-NWRs for Rs. 5303.44 crores value of deposited commodities and farmers got sanctioned the loan of Rs. 405.01 crores against e-NWRs which indicates that progress of e-NWR is faster than NWR. Study suggested that proper capacity building and awareness programs to farmers, higher tenure of loan and reducing warehouse rental cost will help the farmers to get the maximum benefit out of e-NWR.
The Extension of Diagram Group over Semigroup Presentation
Authors: Almabrok Kalthom Mahmood
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we will discuss the diagram groups from union of two semigroup presentations namely 2S , =< X,Y : X = Y >, 3S = < a,b,c : a = b, b = c,c = a, >  and their two complex graphs will be presented. The covering space will be determined by selecting normal subgroup from diagram group that previously obtained from 2S  U3S . Finally, the number of generator and relations of the diagram group can be computed.
Cost and Returns Analysis of Turmeric Production in Kodumudi Block of Erode District from Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Kumar S. Pramoth , Muthulakshmi K. , Rengaraju R.
Published: February 2023

Turmeric is mostly produced, consumed and exported by India. As the third most produced spice in the nation and turmeric makes up around 14 per cent of all spices produced in India. Turmeric is grown on 186.0 thousand hectares in India, with a total production of 943.0 thousand tonnes and a yield of 5.1 tonnes per hectare in the 2015–16 growing season. There is a lack of information regarding turmeric cultivation costs, returns and production. The production of turmeric is mostly concentrated in the southern states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. So, the current study was focused on the cost and returns analysis of turmeric production in Kodumudi block of Erode district. A total of 120 sample respondents was selected based on the multistage purposive cum random sampling by using pre tested interview schedule. It was calculated that growing turmeric would cost Rs 1,46,151.41 per acre. The gross profit per acre realized was Rs 2,60,347.50. Per hectare, the net profit was Rs 1,14,196.09. This study revealed that the government should create the awareness about the various turmeric production technologies among the sample farmers by conducting extension activities.
Assessing Compressive Strength of Concrete with Waste Automobile Tire and Palm Kernel shells as Aggregates
Authors: Boateng Eric , Kankam Charles K. , Danso Anthony K. , Ayarkwa Joshua , Acheampong Alex
Published: February 2023

All throughout the world, millions of end-of-service life automobile tires and Palm Kernel Shells (PKS) are generated as waste that require proper disposal. The reuse of these wastes in concrete is regarded as a novel approach that has environmental, health and performance related benefits. On this basis, the current study was designed to investigate the coupled effect of using both PKS and tire chips as aggregates in concrete mixes on the compressive strength and other properties of concrete. A total of twenty-one (21) concrete mixes containing different volumes of PKS and tire chips as a partial to full replacement of the conventional crushed granite aggregates were prepared to evaluate their impact on the fresh (i.e. slump) and hardened (i.e. density and compressive strength) properties of the concrete at 7, 14, 21, 28, 56 and 90days of curing. The results showed that there is a systematic decrease in compressive strength, workability and density of concrete with increase in tire (T) and PKS (P) content. However, up to 50% total aggregate replacement (TAR) level, adequate compressive strength can be achieved for structural purposes. At this optimum point, the mix with P75T25 recorded a compressive strength of 13.27 N/mm2 which represents about 44% of the strength of the control mix. Generally, the inclusion of PKS aggregates improves compressive strength and decrease the rate of strength reduction.
Single neuron PID based method for deformation suppression during CNC machining of parts
Authors: Ma Tinghong , Han Yajun , Li Huilan
Published: February 2023

CNC machining realizes the automatic control of machine tools with digital information, which is an advanced technology widely used in today's machinery manufacturing industry. In the process of NC lathe machining of parts, thin‐walled workpieces are prone to deformation due to poor rigidity and thinner wall thickness. Therefore, it is necessary to study the deformation suppression of NC parts. By combining fuzzy control with single neuron PID and introducing fast non dominated sorting genetic algorithm, the parameters of thin‐walled workpiece milling are optimized. The results show that the neuron PID algorithm of fuzzy control has no overshoot in the environment with or without interference, and has fast response speed and strong anti‐interference ability. In the case verification, the cutting force controlled by fuzzy neuron PID can quickly reach the reference 240 N and remain stable. The removal rate fluctuates less in the range of 8000–12,000. It can improve the metal removal rate while maintaining a constant cutting force, so as to restrain the machining deformation of parts. At the same time, the introduced fast non dominated sorting genetic algorithm can increase the maximum rotational speed to 10,486.5, the maximum feed rate per tooth from 0.075 to 0.112, and the rotational speed is nearly doubled, effectively improving the processing quality, providing a technical reference for the stable control of the NC machining system, and providing a new idea and method for part deformation suppression.
Strain‐Invariant, Highly Water Stable All‐Organic Soft Conductors Based on Ultralight Multi‐Layered Foam‐Like Framework Structures
Authors: Barg Igor , Kohlmann Niklas , Rasch Florian , Strunskus Thomas , Adelung Rainer , Kienle Lorenz , Faupel Franz , Schröder Stefan , Schütt Fabian
Published: February 2023

Soft and flexible conductors are essential for the development of soft robots, wearable electronics, electronic tissue, and implants. However, conventional soft conductors are inherently characterized by a large change in conductance upon mechanical deformation or under alternating environmental conditions, e.g., humidity, drastically limiting their application potential. This work demonstrates a novel concept for the development of strain‐invariant, highly elastic and highly water stable all‐organic soft conductors, overcoming the limitations of previous strain‐invariant soft conductors. For the first time, thin film deposition technologies are combined in a three‐dimensional fashion, resulting in micro‐ and nano‐engineered, multi‐layered (<50 nm), ultra‐lightweight (< 15 mg cm−3) foam‐like framework structures based on Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) and Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), characterized by a highly strain‐invariant conductivity (≈184 S/m) between 80% compressive and 25% tensile strain. Both the initial electrical and mechanical properties are retained during long‐term cycling, even after 2000 cycles at 50% compression. Furthermore, the PTFE thin film renders the framework structure highly hydrophobic, resulting in stable electrical properties, even when immersed in water for a month. Such innovative multi‐scaled and multi‐layered functional materials are of interest for a broad range of applications in soft electronics, energy storage and conversion, sensing, water and air purification, as well as biomedicine.
Design and Fabrication of Segmented GeTe/(Bi,Sb)2Te3 Thermoelectric Module with Enhanced Conversion Efficiency
Authors: Pei Jun , Shi Jian‐Lei , Li Hezhang , Jiang Yilin , Dong Jinfeng , Zhuang Hua‐Lu , Cai Bowen , Su Bin , Yu Jincheng , Zhou Wei , Zhang Bo‐Ping , Li Jing‐Feng
Published: February 2023

GeTe and (Bi,Sb)2Te3 are two representative thermoelectric (TE) materials showing maximum performance at middle and low temperature, respectively. In order to achieve higher performance over the whole temperature range, their segmented one‐leg TE modules are designed and fabricated by one‐step spark plasma sintering (SPS). To search for contact and connect layers, the diffusion behavior of Fe, Ni, Cu, and Ti metal layers in GeTe is studied systematically. The results show that Ti with a similar linear expansivity (10.80 × 10−6 K−1) to GeTe, has low contact resistance (3 µΩ cm2) and thin diffusion layer (0.4 µm), and thus is an effective metallization layer for GeTe. The geometric structure of the GeTe/(Bi,Sb)2Te3 segmented one‐leg TE module and the ratio of GeTe to (Bi,Sb)2Te3 are determined by finite element simulation method. When the GeTe height ratio is 0.66, its theoretical maximum conversion efficiency (ηmax) can reach 15.9% without considering the thermal radiation and thermal/electrical contact resistance. The fabricated GeTe/(Bi,Sb)2Te3 segmented one‐leg TE module showed a ηmax up to 9.5% with a power density ≈ 7.45 mW mm−2, which are relatively high but lower than theoretical predictions, indicating that developing segmented TE modules is an effective approach to enhance TE conversion efficiency.
Length‐Controlled Construction of Ceria Nanowires with Ultrafine Diameter and Stable Morphology for Targeted Acute Lung Injury Therapy
Authors: Liu Qingshan , Shi Guangyou , Yang Lu , Li Wu , Yang Wang , Wu Qianqian , Zou Ling , Zhang Anwei , Cao Jiang , He Jian , Yang Xiaochao
Published: February 2023

The overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is one of the major reasons for the aggravation of acute lung injury (ALI). Smaller‐sized ceria nanoparticles featured with higher ROS scavenging capability than their bigger‐sized counterparts are potential candidates for ALI therapy. However, smaller‐sized ceria nanoparticles are more easily accumulated in spleen and liver rather than lung. Herein, it is reported that this obstacle can be addressed by constructing ceria into ultrafine nanowires, through which the ultrafine diameter ensures the high ROS scavenging activity and the high aspect ratio promotes the lung targeted accumulation. To demonstrate the feasibility of this conception, a platform is developed to realize length‐controlled ceria nanowires (diameter of ≈1.5 nm) synthesis. These nanowires are PEGylated using a carefully optimized procedure that can preserve their fragile crystal structures. The PEGylated nanowires exhibit higher ROS scavenging capabilities than the ≈3.9 nm sized nanoparticles. Most importantly, lung targeted accumulation can be realized through modulating the length of the nanowires, where the longer nanowires (>100 nm) show much higher lung accumulation. Due to these properties, the longer ceria nanowires can effectively scavenge the overproduced ROS during the progression of ALI, and thereby inhibit the edema and inflammation in the lung tissue.
Sustained Release of Human Adipose Tissue Stem Cell Secretome from Star‐Shaped Poly(ethylene glycol) Glycosaminoglycan Hydrogels Promotes Motor Improvements after Complete Transection in Spinal Cord Injury Rat Model
Authors: Silva Deolinda , Schirmer Lucas , Pinho Tiffany S. , Atallah Passant , Cibrão Jorge R. , Lima Rui , Afonso João , B‐Antunes Sandra , Marques Cláudia R. , Dourado João , Freudenberg Uwe , Sousa Rui A. , Werner Carsten , Salgado António J.
Published: February 2023

Adipose tissue‐derived stem cells (ASCs) have been shown to assist regenerative processes after spinal cord injury (SCI) through their secretome, which promotes several regenerative mechanisms, such as inducing axonal growth, reducing inflammation, promoting cell survival, and vascular remodeling, thus ultimately leading to functional recovery. However, while systemic delivery (e.g., i.v. [intravenous]) may cause off‐target effects in different organs, the local administration has low efficiency due to fast clearance by body fluids. Herein, a delivery system for human ASCs secretome based on a hydrogel formed of star‐shaped poly(ethylene glycol) (starPEG) and the glycosaminoglycan heparin (Hep) that is suitable to continuously release pro‐regenerative signaling mediators such as interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐6, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, glial‐cell neurotrophic factor, and beta‐nerve growth factor over 10 days, is reported. The released secretome is shown to induce differentiation of human neural progenitor cells and neurite outgrowth in organotypic spinal cord slices. In a complete transection SCI rat model, the secretome‐loaded hydrogel significantly improves motor function by reducing the percentage of ameboid microglia and systemically elevates levels of anti‐inflammatory cytokines. Delivery of ASC‐derived secretome from starPEG‐Hep hydrogels may therefore offer unprecedented options for regenerative therapy of SCI.
Comparison of Fabrication Methods for Fiber‐Optic Ultrasound Transmitters Using Candle‐Soot Nanoparticles
Authors: Bodian Semyon , Aytac‐Kipergil Esra , Zhang Shaoyan , Lewis‐Thompson India , Sathasivam Sanjayan , Mathews Sunish J. , Alles Erwin J. , Zhang Edward Z. , Beard Paul C. , Gordon Ross J. , Collier Paul , Parkin Ivan P. , Desjardins Adrien E. , Colchester Richard J. , Noimark Sacha
Published: February 2023

Candle‐soot nanoparticles (CSNPs) have shown great promise for fabricating optical ultrasound (OpUS) transmitters. They have a facile, inexpensive synthesis whilst their unique, porous structure enables a fast heat diffusion rate which aids high‐frequency ultrasound generation necessary for high‐resolution clinical imaging. These composites have demonstrated high ultrasound generation performance showing clinically relevant detail, when applied as macroscale OpUS transmitters comprising both concave and planar surfaces, however, less research has been invested into the translation of this material's technology to fabricate fiber‐optic transmitters for image guidance of minimally invasive interventions. Here, are reported two fabrication methods of nanocomposites composed of CSNPs embedded within polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) deposited onto fiber‐optic end‐faces using two different optimized fabrication methods: “All‐in‐One” and “Direct Deposition.” Both types of nanocomposite exhibit a smooth, black domed structure with a maximum dome thickness of 50 µm, broadband optical absorption (>98% between 500 and 1400 nm) and both nanocomposites generated high peak‐to‐peak ultrasound pressures (>3 MPa) and wide bandwidths (>29 MHz). Further, high‐resolution (<40 µm axial resolution) B‐mode ultrasound imaging of ex vivo lamb brain tissue demonstrating how CSNP‐PDMS OpUS transmitters can allow for high fidelity minimally invasive imaging of biological tissues is demonstrated.
Ring‐Opening Cyclization of Spirocyclopropanes with Stabilized Phosphorus Ylides: Access to Indane and Azulene Skeletons
Authors: Onuki Yuta , Yamazaki Koga , Masuda Yuto , Yakura Takayuki , Nambu Hisanori
Published: February 2023

In this study, regio‐ and diastereoselective ring‐opening cyclization of spirocyclopropanes with phosphorus ylides stabilized by electron‐withdrawing groups were developed. The reaction of various cyclohexane‐1,3‐dione‐2‐spirocyclopropanes with phosphorus ylides bearing alkoxycarbonyl groups proceeded smoothly without any additives to provide the corresponding 6,7‐dihydroindan‐4‐ones in 32–87% yields. Cycloheptane‐1,3‐dione‐2‐spirocyclopropanes were also used in this reaction, producing the corresponding products 1,2,3,6,7,8‐hexahydroazulen‐4‐ones in 52–67% yields. The resulting [5.6]‐ and [5.7]‐fused carbocyclic products were readily converted into highly substituted indanes and azulenes, respectively, by oxidation.
Recycling Useful Materials of Perovskite Solar Cells toward Sustainable Development
Authors: Meng Fanning , Bi Jiayu , Chang Jiarun , Wang Guiqiang
Published: February 2023

To date, the highest certified efficiency has reached 25.7% for laboratory‐scale perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Breakthroughs in the commercialization of PSCs is achieved continuously. Therefore, the recovery of decommissioned devices that are closely related to the commercialization is extremely urgent. More importantly, lead (Pb) and other materials in PSCs are ecotoxic and biotoxic. Due to improper disposal of the decommissioned devices, serious heavy metal Pb and solid waste pollution incidents may occur. In fact, PSCs contain a great deal of recyclable and valuable materials. To achieve the goal of sustainable PSCs, recycling and reusing these useful materials are advocated. In this review, the authors retrospect structures and key materials of PSCs briefly. Benefits of recycling useful materials from the decommissioned PSCs are analyzed in terms of environmental and economic profits, including reducing the material costs, saving energy, reducing negative environmental impacts and conserving natural resources. Research progresses on recycling and reusing the useful materials are summarized and discussed from the perspectives of feasible pathways, recovery solvents, recovery effects and performance analysis of the corresponding devices. Finally, current challenges and future opportunities to prevent Pb leakage and recycle PSCs in an environmentally viable manner are proposed toward sustainable development.
Type‐Independent 3D Writing and Nano‐Patterning of Confined Biopolymers
Authors: Yang Un , Kang Byunghwa , Yong Moon‐Jung , Yang Dong‐Hwan , Choi Si‐Young , Je Jung Ho , Oh Seung Soo
Published: February 2023

Biopolymers are essential building blocks that constitute cells and tissues with well‐defined molecular structures and diverse biological functions. Their three‐dimensional (3D) complex architectures are used to analyze, control, and mimic various cells and their ensembles. However, the free‐form and high‐resolution structuring of various biopolymers remain challenging because their structural and rheological control depend critically on their polymeric types at the submicron scale. Here, direct 3D writing of intact biopolymers is demonstrated using a systemic combination of nanoscale confinement, evaporation, and solidification of a biopolymer‐containing solution. A femtoliter solution is confined in an ultra‐shallow liquid interface between a fine‐tuned nanopipette and a chosen substrate surface to achieve directional growth of biopolymer nanowires via solvent‐exclusive evaporation and concurrent solution supply. The evaporation‐dependent printing is biopolymer type‐independent, therefore, the 3D motor‐operated precise nanopipette positioning allows in situ printing of nucleic acids, polysaccharides, and proteins with submicron resolution. By controlling concentrations and molecular weights, several different biopolymers are reproducibly patterned with desired size and geometry, and their 3D architectures are biologically active in various solvents with no structural deformation. Notably, protein‐based nanowire patterns exhibit pin‐point localization of spatiotemporal biofunctions, including target recognition and catalytic peroxidation, indicating their application potential in organ‐on‐chips and micro‐tissue engineering.
Anatomical functional traits and hydraulic vulnerability of trees in different water conditions in southern Amazonia
Authors: Ribeiro‐Júnior Norberto G. , Marimon Ben Hur , Marimon Beatriz S. , Cruz Wesley J. A. , Silva Ivone V. , Galbraith David R. , Gloor Emanuel , Phillips Oliver L.
Published: February 2023

Premise

Understanding tree species' responses to drought is critical for predicting the future of tropical forests, especially in regions where the climate is changing rapidly.

Methods

We compared anatomical and functional traits of the dominant tree species of two tropical forests in southern Amazonia, one on deep, well‐drained soils (cerradão [CD]) and one in a riparian environment (gallery forest [GF]), to examine potential anatomical indicators of resistance or vulnerability to drought.

Results

Leaves of CD species generally had a thicker cuticle, upper epidermis, and mesophyll than those of GF species, traits that are indicative of adaptation to water deficit. In the GF, the theoretical hydraulic conductivity of the stems was significantly higher, indicating lower investment in drought resistance. The anatomical functional traits of CD species indicate a greater potential for surviving water restriction compared to the GF. Even so, it is possible that CD species could also be affected by extreme climate changes due to the more water‐limited environment.

Conclusions

In addition to the marked anatomical and functional differences between these phytophysiognomies, tree diversity within each is associated with a large range of hydraulic morphofunctional niches. Our results suggest the strong potential for floristic and functional compositional shifts under continued climate change, especially in the GF.
Technical note: Application and potentiality of quantitative ultrasonometry for the evaluation of bone mineral density status
Authors: Pasini Alba , Rinaldo Natascia , Bramanti Barbara , Gualdi‐Russo Emanuela
Published: February 2023

The evaluation of bone mineral density (BMD) is an important task in paleopathology. Techniques commonly applied in bone quantity assessment, such as DXA or radiogrammetry (XR), suffer from several limitations when applied to skeletal remains. In recently published research, we developed a new methodology and new reference curves for the evaluation of BMD on human skeletal remains, applying for the first time Quantitative Ultrasonometry (QUS), a user‐friendly, portable, and reliable clinical technique. This study aims to apply this new methodology to an archeological sample and to compare the results with those obtained through XR. We apply QUS and XR to a sample of 104 adults from Medieval Italian cemeteries. Fragility fractures were recorded. Descriptive statistics and comparisons between sexes, age‐at‐death cohorts, and individuals with and without fragility fractures were performed. Moreover, univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to define the parameters most predictive of fracture risk in past populations. The comparison between sexes showed no significant results concerning BMD parameters, whereas a decrease in BMD with increasing age is confirmed. The comparison between fracture and non‐fracture individuals and the logit model demonstrated that QUS parameters, especially UBPI, are more reliable predictors of fracture risk in comparison to XR. Our results confirmed that QUS is a valuable technique that can be efficiently applied to archeological remains, also considering its portability. We also propose a modification of the previously published QUS standard curves, to easily assess osteopenia and osteoporosis in archeological material.
Photoswitchable Oxidopyrylium Ylide for Photoclick Reaction with High Spatiotemporal Precision: A Dynamic Switching Strategy to Compensate for Molecular Diffusion
Authors: Xie Xinyu , Hu Fuqiang , Zhou Yuqiao , Liu Zhihao , Shen Xin , Fu Jielin , Zhao Xiaohu , Yu Zhipeng
Published: February 2023

We describe a novel type of photoclick reaction between 2,3‐diaryl indenone epoxide (DIO) and ring‐strained dipolarophiles, in which DIO serves as a P‐type photoswitch to produce mesoionic oxidopyrylium ylide (PY) to initiate an ultra‐fast [5+2] cycloaddition (k2hν=1.9×105 M−1 s−1). The photoisomerization between DIO and PY can be tightly controlled by either 365 or 520 nm photo‐stimulation, which allows reversion or regeneration of the reactive PY dipole on demand. Thus, this reversible photoactivation was exploited to increase the chemoselectivity of the [5+2] cycloaddition in complex environments via temporal dual‐λ stimulation sequences and to recycle the DIO reagent for batch‐wise protein conjugation. A dynamic photoswitching strategy is also proposed to compensate for molecular diffusion of PY in aqueous solution, enhancing the spatial resolution of lithographic surface decoration and bioorthogonal labeling on living cells via a spatiotemporal dual‐λ photo‐modulation.
Excited‐State THz Vibrations in Aggregates of PtII Complexes Contribute to the Enhancement of Near‐Infrared Emission Efficiencies**
Authors: Wei Yu‐Chen , Chen Bo‐Han , Ye Ren‐Siang , Huang Hsing‐Wei , Su Jia‐Xuan , Lin Chao‐Yang , Hodgkiss Justin , Hsu Lian‐Yan , Chi Yun , Chen Kai , Lu Chih‐Hsuan , Yang Shang‐Da , Chou Pi‐Tai
Published: February 2023

The exploration of deactivation mechanisms for near‐infrared(NIR)‐emissive organic molecules has been a key issue in chemistry, materials science and molecular biology. In this study, based on transient absorption spectroscopy and transient grating photoluminescence spectroscopy, we demonstrate that the aggregated PtII complex 4H (efficient NIR emitter) exhibits collective out‐of‐plane motions with a frequency of 32 cm−1 (0.96 THz) in the excited states. Importantly, similar THz characteristics were also observed in analogous PtII complexes with prominent NIR emission efficiency. The conservation of THz motions enables excited‐state deactivation to proceed along low‐frequency vibrational coordinates, contributing to the suppression of nonradiative decay and remarkable NIR emission. These novel results highlight the significance of excited‐state vibrations in nonradiative processes, which serve as a benchmark for improving device performance.
Using Biological Photophysics to Map the Excited‐State Topology of Molecular Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Chettri Avinash , Yang Tingxiang , Cole Houston D. , Shi Ge , Cameron Colin G. , McFarland Sherri A. , Dietzek‐Ivanšić Benjamin
Published: February 2023

This study employs TLD1433, a RuII‐based photodynamic therapy (PDT) agent in human clinical trials, as a benchmark to establish protocols for studying the excited‐state dynamics of photosensitizers (PSs) in cellulo, in the local environment provided by human cancer cells. Very little is known about the excited‐state properties of any PS in live cells, and for TLD1433, it is terra incognita. This contribution targets a general problem in phototherapy, which is how to interrogate the light‐triggered, function‐determining processes of the PSs in the relevant biological environment, and establishes methodological advances to study the ultrafast photoinduced processes for TLD1433 when taken up by MCF7 cells. We generalize the methodological developments and results in terms of molecular physics by applying them to TLD1433’s analogue TLD1633, making this study a benchmark to investigate the excited‐state dynamics of phototoxic compounds in the complex biological environment.
Isolated Tin(IV) Active Sites for Highly Efficient Electroreduction of CO2 to CH4 in Neutral Aqueous Solution
Authors: Zhao Zhen‐Hua , Huang Jia‐Run , Liao Pei‐Qin , Chen Xiao‐Ming
Published: February 2023

The development of efficient electrocatalysts with non‐copper metal sites for electrochemical CO2 reduction reactions (eCO2RR) to hydrocarbons and oxygenates is highly desirable, but still a great challenge. Herein, a stable metal–organic framework (DMA)4[Sn2(THO)2] (Sn‐THO, THO6− = triphenylene‐2,3,6,7,10,11‐hexakis(olate), DMA = dimethylammonium) with isolated and distorted octahedral SnO62− active sites is reported as an electrocatalyst for eCO2RR, showing an exceptional performance for eCO2RR to the CH4 product rather than the common products formate and CO for reported Sn‐based catalysts. The partial current density of CH4 reaches a high value of 34.5 mA cm−2, surpassing most reported copper‐based and all non‐Cu metal‐based catalysts. Our experimental and theoretical results revealed that the isolated SnO62− active site favors the formation of key *OCOH species to produce CH4 and can greatly inhibit the formation of *OCHO and *COOH species to produce *HCOOH and *CO, respectively.
Efficient Circularly Polarized Electroluminescence from Achiral Luminescent Materials**
Authors: Xu Letian , Liu Hao , Peng Xiaoluo , Shen Pingchuan , Tang Ben Zhong , Zhao Zujin
Published: February 2023

Circularly polarized electroluminescence (CP‐EL) is generally produced in organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) based on special CP luminescent (CPL) materials, while common achiral luminescent materials are rarely considered to be capable of direct producing CP‐EL. Herein, near ultraviolet CPL materials with high photoluminescence quantum yields and good CPL dissymmetry factors are developed, which can induce blue to red CPL for various achiral luminescent materials. Strong near ultraviolet CP‐EL with the best external quantum efficiencies (ηexts) of 9.0 % and small efficiency roll‐offs are achieved by using them as emitters for CP‐OLEDs. By adopting them as hosts or sensitizers, commercially available yellow‐orange achiral phosphorescence, thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) and multi‐resonance (MR) TADF materials can generate intense CP‐EL, with high dissymmetry factors and outstandingηexts (30.8 %), demonstrating a simple and universal avenue towards efficient CP‐EL.
Advances in surface modification and functionalization for tailoring the characteristics of thin films and membranes via chemical vapor deposition techniques
Authors: Mostafavi Amir Hossein , Mishra Ajay Kumar , Gallucci Fausto , Kim Jong Hak , Ulbricht Mathias , Coclite Anna Maria , Hosseini Seyed Saeid
Published: February 2023

Advanced materials are among the prime drivers for technological revolutions and transformation in quality of lives. Over time, several modification techniques have emerged enabling development of novel materials with extraordinary features. The present review aims to introduce various promising chemical and physical surface modification techniques instrumental for tailoring the characteristics of thin films and membranes. Meticulous discussions are provided over chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques evolved for addressing the demands for materials with desired functionalities. Also, essential criteria for the selection of substrates, modifying and precursor materials for an effective CVD modification are elaborated. Investigations are extended to unraveling the role of various process parameters on the quality and properties of deposition. Special attention is paid to the significance and performance of CVD‐based membranes and thin films for industrial applications ranging from desalination and water treatment to energy and environment, biomedical and life science as well as packaging. The goal has been to establish a scientific platform for a timely tracking of the prevailing trends in exploitation of CVD techniques and highlighting the unexplored opportunities. This also helps in identification of the scientific and technical gaps and setting directions for further progress in the fields of thin films and membranes.
Optimizing electromagnetic interference shielding ofcarbon nanofibersreinforced nylon 6, 6 nanocomposite films in terahertz range
Authors: Arooj Nooria , Mumtaz Muhammad , Rehman Abdur , Ahmad Izhar , Khan Sabih , Shah Attaullah , ul Hassan Mahmood , Raffi Muhammad
Published: February 2023

The widespread development and usage of electrical and electronic devices in THz frequency band has instigated great concerns regarding the anticipated functioning of devices. The world is in dire need to develop tunable shielding materials which are not only field functional but could also provide shielding against undesired electromagnetic signals by absorption as the primary mechanism. In this work, nylon 6,6 based hybrid nanocomposite films loaded with 0–50 wt% CNFs have been prepared on the cellulosic substrates by air spray coating technique. XRD and FESEM results have established formation of crystalline films having homogeneously distributed CNFs in the polymer matrix leading to formation of an efficient conductive network. IV measurements demonstrate a significant rise in the dc conductivity in the polymer nanocomposite samples with the gradual increase of CNF content in comparison to the pristine sample. Interestingly, sample containing 50 wt% CNFs has shown dc conductivity value of 0.03 Scm−1while shielding effectiveness (SE) of 44 dB obtained through THz‐TDS. The results hold a distinctive position in these samples which have outperformed at a very low thickness of ~570 μm as compared to the results obtained by many other novel polymer composites and present themselves a light weight field functional high THz absorption materials.
Investigating CNS distribution of PF‐05212377, a P‐glycoprotein substrate, by translation of 5‐HT6 receptor occupancy from non‐human primates to humans
Authors: Sawant‐Basak Aarti , Chen Laigao , Lockwood Peter , Boyden Tracey , Doran Angela C. , Mancuso Jessica , Zasadny Kenneth , McCarthy Timothy , Morris Evan D. , Carson Richard E. , Esterlis Irina , Huang Yiyun , Nabulsi Nabeel , Planeta Beata , Fullerton Terence
Published: February 2023

PF‐05212377 (SAM760) is a potent and selective 5‐HT6 antagonist, previously under development for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. In vitro, PF‐05212377 was determined to be a P‐gp/non‐BCRP human transporter substrate. Species differences were observed in the in vivo brain penetration of PF‐05212377 with a ratio of the unbound concentration in brain/unbound concentration in plasma (Cbu/Cpu) of 0.05 in rat and 0.64 in non‐human primates (NHP). Based on pre‐clinical evidence, brain penetration and target engagement of PF‐05212377 was confirmed in NHP using positron emission tomography (PET) measured 5‐HT6 receptor occupancy (%RO). The NHP Cpu EC50 of PF‐05212377 was 0.31 nM (consistent with the in vitro human 5HT6 Ki: 0.32 nM). P‐gp has been reported to be expressed in higher abundance at the rat BBB and in similar abundance at the BBB of non‐human primates and human; brain penetration of PF‐05212377 in humans was postulated to be similar to that in non‐human primates. In humans, PF‐05212377 demonstrated dose and concentration dependent increases in 5‐HT6 RO; maximal 5‐HT6 RO of ∼80% was measured in humans at doses of ≥15 mg with an estimated unbound plasma EC50 of 0.37 nM (which was similar to the in vitro human 5HT6 binding Ki 0.32 nM). In conclusion, cumulative evidence from NHP and human PET RO assessments confirmed that NHP is more appropriate than the rat for the prediction of human brain penetration of PF‐05212377, a P‐gp/non‐BCRP substrate.

Clinical trial number: NCT01258751.
The predictive value of lymphocyte to monocyte ratio for overall survival in cholangiocarcinoma patients with hepatic resection
Authors: Lv Minghe , Wang Kun , Zhang Zhiyuan , Zhang Zhen , Wan Juefeng
Published: February 2023

Background

There is considerable heterogeneity in clinical behavior and survival outcomes in patients with cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), and the prognosis of CCA patients is poor. We proposed lymphocyte to monocyte ratio (LMR) as a novel prognostic element for CCA patients with hepatic resection in present study.

Methods

By retrospectively analyzing the clinical data of 145 CCA patients with hepatic resection, we determined the optimal LMR cutoff value according to the receiver operating characteristic (ROC). We comparatively analyzed the clinical features of CAA patients between low LMR group and high LMR group, mainly including overall survival (OS) analysis by using the Kaplan‐Meier method, univariate and multivariate Cox regression.

Results

We found there was a longer OS in CCA patients of the high LMR group than the low LMR group. The total median OS of cholangiocarcinoma patients were 13.6 months, and the OS of low LMR group was markedly lower than the high LMR group. The 1‐year, 3‐year, and 5‐year OS of high LMR group were respectively 62.9%, 32.4%, and 16.4%, and were significantly higher the cholangiocarcinoma patients of low LMR group (40.2%, 16.4%, and 0%). Multivariate regression analyses showed that preoperative cholangitis, elevated CEA level and nerve invasion were risk factors for the OS of cholangiocarcinoma patients, while the high LMR level and postoperative treatment were protective factors for the OS of cholangiocarcinoma patients.

Conclusions

Preoperative LMR was a vital prognostic factor to predict the prognosis of CCA patients with hepatic resection and provided additional prognostic value beyond standard clinicopathological parameters.