bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Versatile 3D‐Confined Self‐Assembly Strategy for Anisotropic and Ordered Mesoporous Carbon Microparticles
Authors: Wang Mian , Mao Xi , Liu Jingye , Deng Bite , Deng Shuai , Jin Shaohong , Li Wang , Gong Jiang , Deng Renhua , Zhu Jintao
Published: July 2022

Mesoporous carbon microparticles (MCMPs) with anisotropic shapes and ordered structures are attractive materials that remain challenging to access. In this study, a facile yet versatile route is developed to prepare anisotropic MCMPs by combining neutral interface‐guided 3D confined self‐assembly (3D‐CSA) of block copolymer (BCP) with a self‐templated direct carbonization strategy. This route enables pre‐engineering BCP into microparticles with oblate shape and hexagonal packing cylindrical mesostructures, followed by selective crosslinking and decorating of their continuous phase with functional species (such as platinum nanoparticles, Pt NPs) via in situ growth. To realize uniform in situ growth, a “guest exchange” strategy is proposed to make room for functional species and a pre‐crosslinking strategy is developed to preserve the structural stability of preformed BCP microparticles during infiltration. Finally, Pt NP‐loaded MCMPs are derived from the continuous phase of BCP microparticles through selective self‐templated direct carbonization without using any external carbon source. This study introduces an effective concept to obtain functional species‐loaded and N‐doped MCMPs with oblate shape and almost hexagonal structure (p6mm), which would find important applications in fuel cells, separation, and heterogeneous catalysis.
Carbazole‐Containing Polymer‐Assisted Trap Passivation and Hole‐Injection Promotion for Efficient and Stable CsCu2I3‐Based Yellow LEDs
Authors: Ma Zhuangzhuang , Ji Xinzhen , Wang Meng , Zhang Fei , Liu Zibin , Yang Dongwen , Jia Mochen , Chen Xu , Wu Di , Zhang Yu , Li Xinjian , Shi Zhifeng , Shan Chongxin
Published: July 2022

Perovskite light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are emerging light sources for next‐generation lighting and display technologies; however, their development is greatly plagued by difficulty in achieving yellow electroluminescence, environmental instability, and lead toxicity. Copper halide CsCu2I3 with intrinsic yellow emission emerges as a highly promising candidate for eco‐friendly LEDs, but the electroluminescent performance is limited by defect‐related nonradiative losses and inefficient charge transport/injection. To solve these issues, a hole‐transporting poly(9‐vinlycarbazole) (PVK)‐incorporated engineering into CsCu2I3 emitter is proposed. PVK with carbazole groups is permeated at the grain boundaries of CsCu2I3 films by interacting with the uncoordinated Cu+, reducing the CuCs and CuI antisite defects to increase the radiative recombination and enhancing the hole mobility to balance the charge transport/injection, resulting in substantially enhanced device performances. Eventually, the yellow LEDs exhibit an 8.5‐fold enhancement of external quantum efficiency, and the half‐lifetime reaches 14.6 h, representing the most stable yellow LEDs based on perovskite systems reported so far.
Radiolysis‐Driven Evolution of Gold Nanostructures – Model Verification by Scale Bridging In Situ Liquid‐Phase Transmission Electron Microscopy and X‐Ray Diffraction
Authors: Fritsch Birk , Zech Tobias S. , Bruns Mark P. , Körner Andreas , Khadivianazar Saba , Wu Mingjian , Zargar Talebi Neda , Virtanen Sannakaisa , Unruh Tobias , Jank Michael P. M. , Spiecker Erdmann , Hutzler Andreas
Published: July 2022

Utilizing ionizing radiation for in situ studies in liquid media enables unique insights into nanostructure formation dynamics. As radiolysis interferes with observations, kinetic simulations are employed to understand and exploit beam‐liquid interactions. By introducing an intuitive tool to simulate arbitrary kinetic models for radiation chemistry, it is demonstrated that these models provide a holistic understanding of reaction mechanisms. This is shown for irradiated HAuCl4 solutions allowing for quantitative prediction and tailoring of redox processes in liquid‐phase transmission electron microscopy (LP‐TEM). Moreover, it is demonstrated that kinetic modeling of radiation chemistry is applicable to investigations utilizing X‐rays such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD). This emphasizes that beam‐sample interactions must be considered during XRD in liquid media and shows that reaction kinetics do not provide a threshold dose rate for gold nucleation relevant to LP‐TEM and XRD. Furthermore, it is unveiled that oxidative etching of gold nanoparticles depends on both, precursor concentration, and dose rate. This dependency is exploited to probe the electron beam‐induced shift in Gibbs free energy landscape by analyzing critical radii of gold nanoparticles.
Design Criteria for Silicon‐Based Anode Binders in Half and Full Cells
Authors: Deng Li , Zheng Yun , Zheng Xiaomei , Or Tyler , Ma Qianyi , Qian Lanting , Deng Yaping , Yu Aiping , Li Juntao , Chen Zhongwei
Published: July 2022

While silicon is considered one of the most promising anode materials for the next generation of high‐energy lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), the industrialization of Si anodes is hampered by the anode's large volume change during the charging and discharging process. In comparison to the traditional graphite anode used in LIBs, the Si anode places more stringent demands on the binder, which must maintain intimate contact between the electrode components and the integrity of the ion and electron transport channels when subjected to frequent large volume changes. The purpose of this review is to cover the recent advances in binder design strategies by examining the molecular structure, chemical functionalities, physical and mechanical properties of the binder materials, as well as the working strategies involved. The challenges in the design of the innovative polymer binder for commercializing Si anodes are discussed, as well as the future development direction and application prospects.
Industrial Fabrication of 3D Braided Stretchable Hierarchical Interlocked Fancy‐Yarn Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Self‐Powered Smart Fitness System
Authors: Wu Ronghui , Liu Sai , Lin Zaifu , Zhu Shuihong , Ma Liyun , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: July 2022

Sustainable, clean, random energy resources from the environment, like that from ubiquitous human biomechanical movements, are highly desirable for the information era. Such biomechanical energy can be captured via textile triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). However, realizing a textile TENG that has a self‐driven working mode, dynamic pattern designability, high electrical performance, mechanical robustness, and industrialized fabrication is challenging because of the difficulty in fancy‐yarn structure manipulation. Here, for the first time, a 3D braided stretchable hierarchical interlocking fancy‐yarn TENG (3D HIFY‐TENG) with deoxyribonucleic acid‐like double‐wing spiral structure is industrially exploited for multifunctional energy harvesting modes and self‐powered biomechanical sensing. The 3D HIFY‐TENG can generate self‐driven triboelectrical outputs without relying on other objects by body movements. It shows a mechanical robustness (6.9 cN dtex−1), excellent stretchability (>350%), weavability, washability and human‐body comfort. Moreover, geometric and mechanical behavior of the 3D HIFY‐TENG are systematically investigated theoretically and experimentally. Further, multifunctional 3D HIFY‐TENG fabrics are explored, which can not only harvest biomechanical energy and monitor body movement, but exhibit a unique adjustable pore effect, providing potential for dynamic electronic textile pattern design. In addition, a smart fitness system is developed for exercise management of real‐time exercise detection, frequency analysis, and self‐powered posture correction alarms.
Triggering Zn2+ Unsaturated Hydration Structure via Hydrated Salt Electrolyte for High Voltage and Cycling Stable Rechargeable Aqueous Zn Battery
Authors: Yan Huibo , Li Songmei , Xu Hongfei , Chen Hao , Yang Shubin , Li Bin
Published: July 2022

Ocean‐like free water in conventional aqueous electrolytes limits operating voltage and induces parasitic reactions in rechargeable Zn metal batteries (AZMBs). Herein, a hydrated salt electrolyte (HSE), which suppresses the presence of free water and triggers an unsaturated hydration structure (Zn(H2O)n2+, n < 6), is proposed to circumvent the parasitic reactions occurring on the zinc anode and cathode and elevate the decomposition voltage (to ≈2.55 V vs Zn2+/Zn). In a full cell with a transition metal oxide cathode, the parasitic reactions of dissolution and diffusion of discharge products are inhibited, and high discharge capacity retention above 80% at 500 mA g‐1 and super‐stable Coulombic efficiency (average value ≈99.97%) are delivered. Moreover, when applied in a high‐voltage AZMB with zinc hexacyanoferrate cathode, the full cell yields an average output voltage above 1.8 V together with a 132.3 Wh kg‐1 energy density at 10 mA g‐1 and 1.78 V output voltage combining high energy density and power density (88.5 Wh kg‐1/106.2 W kg‐1). The exceptional electrochemical performance of HSE indicates rosy prospects for the prevention of parasitic reactions in AZMBs, a key step on the road to further commercialization of AZMBs.
Synergetic Strategy for Highly Efficient and Super Flexible Thick‐film Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Jianxiao , Han Chenyu , Han Jianhua , Bi Fuzhen , Sun Xiaokang , Wen Shuguang , Yang Chunpeng , Yang Chunming , Bao Xichang , Chu Junhao
Published: July 2022

Efficient organic solar cells (OSCs) equipped with thick‐film active layers and high flexibility are of great significance for industrial preparation and practical applications. Herein, a ternary strategy coupled with a functional additive is employed to obtain efficient thick‐film flexible OSCs. A novel polymer donor PBB1‐F with good planarity is synthesized as a third component to optimize photon capture and molecular stacking. Meanwhile, a high dielectric constant polyarene ether (PAE) functional additive with strong adhesion not only greatly improves exciton dissociation efficiency, but also acts as locking cage‐like for effective enhancement of the mechanical stability of active layer. As a result, the PM6:PBB1‐F:Y6‐BO‐4Cl and PM6:PBB1‐F:BTP‐eC9 based ternary OSCs with PAE exhibit an efficiency of 17.91% and 18.51% under rigid thin‐film state, and perform better under thick‐film state of rigid (16.40% and 16.84%) and flexible (14.78% and 14.95%). Under the protection of the polymers, tight entanglement and cage‐like PAE adhesion, the elongation at break of the active layer increases by more than fourfold (27.3%), and gives a super flexible thick‐film OSCs that maintains more than 90% performance after 1000 bending cycles with a diameter of 10 mm. Overall, this work provides a new feasible scheme to effectively solve thickness sensitivity and flexibility issues in the context organic photovoltaic applications.
Liquid‐Interfaces‐Based Triboelectric Nanogenerator: An Emerging Power Generation Method from Liquid‐Energy Nexus
Authors: Fu Jingjing , Xu Guoqiang , Wu Hao , Li Chuanyang , Zi Yunlong
Published: July 2022

As a state of matter, liquids exist in an extremely wide range, including water such as that in oceans and rivers, as well as various solutions, oils, liquid metals, etc. Due to the fluidity of liquids, the triboelectric effect based on them often shows unexpected results and can be used in complex environments. Herein, the latest research on working principles of the triboelectric effect at liquid–solid, liquid–liquid, and liquid–gas interfaces are reviewed. The factors affecting triboelectric charge generation and the output performance of liquid‐interfaces‐based TENGs (LI‐TENG) in terms of material, environment, and structure are systematically discussed. Besides, to harvest the ubiquitously existing energy in various forms, studies about the hybridization of LI‐TENG with other energy harvesters for syngeneic single‐source and multisource energy harvesting are also reviewed. Moreover, the performances of LI‐TENGs as energy harvesters and as novel sensors with various applications are reviewed. Finally, opportunities and challenges in the future development of LI‐TENG are discussed.
Mixed Transition Metal Carbonate Hydroxide‐Based Nanostructured Electrocatalysts for Alkaline Oxygen Evolution: Status and Perspectives
Authors: Karmakar Ayon , Chavan Harish S. , Jeong Sang Mun , Cho Jung Sang
Published: July 2022

Hydrogen is regarded as the cleanest and highest energy‐density fuel as an alternative energy resource. Water electrolysis is useful for producing ultrapure hydrogen (>99.9%), and alkaline water electrolysis is industrially adopted for large‐scale hydrogen production. However, the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) remains as the bottleneck for achieving efficient hydrogen generation because of its multielectron pathways and sluggish kinetics. Additionally, the OER is crucial for other renewable energy conversion and storage systems, such as CO2 reduction and metal–air batteries. In this regard, high‐performing, durable, and cost‐effective electrocatalysts are essential for achieving the desired hydrogen production efficiency. Recently, transition metal carbonate hydroxides (TMCHs) have been investigated as electrocatalysts for alkaline water splitting because of their layered structure, rich redox properties, and high accessibility to electrolytes. Furthermore, the electronic, morphological, and structural modulations in mixed TMCHs, due to the presence of multiple metal centers, offer more accessible active sites for the OER. Considering these aspects, the present review focuses on the application of mixed transition metal carbonate hydroxide (MTMCH)‐based nanostructured electrocatalysts to OER in alkaline media. This review will benefit the understanding and evaluation of OER activity and the development of MTMCH‐based electrocatalysts for practical application to the OER.
Liquid Biopsy beyond Cancer: A miRNA Detection in Serum with Electrochemical Chip for Non‐Invasive Coeliac Disease Diagnosis
Authors: Caratelli Veronica , Moccia Maria , Paggioro Francesca R. , Fiore Luca , Avitabile Concetta , Saviano Michele , Imbriani Anna Lisa , Dardano Principia , De Stefano Luca , Moscone Danila , Colabufo Nicola A. , Ghafir El Idrissi Imane , Russo Francesco , Riezzo Giuseppe , Giannelli Gianluigi , Arduini Fabiana
Published: July 2022

Coeliac disease is a very common autoimmune disease estimated to affect 1 in 100 people worldwide. It occurs in genetically predisposed people where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine, and it is accurately diagnosticated through duodenal biopsy, an invasive diagnostic method. The liquid biopsy, generally used for monitoring cancer, is an appealing alternative even for autoimmune pathology such as coeliac disease, allowing for detecting disease progression or resistance to treatment. For this reason, an electrochemical peptide nucleic acid (PNA) device combined with a smartphone‐assisted potentiostat for non‐invasive coeliac disease diagnosis is proposed, by measuring the selected overexpressed miRNA‐486‐5p in serum, enlarging the application of liquid biopsy in nontumor pathologies. For highly sensitive detection, the polyester‐based printed sensor is nanomodified with gold nanoparticles and a synthetic customized PNA probe. The designed sensor can detect the target analyte in the range of 10–100 nm with a limit of detection of 0.7 nm by measuring the variation of the response of the electrochemical mediator hexaammineruthenium in the presence of PNA–miRNA duplex on the nanostructured working electrode surface. The analyses testing serum samples are found in agreement with ones obtained by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), demonstrating the reliability of this innovative electrochemical chip developed.
Morphology‐controlled synthesis and structural features of ultrafine nanoparticles of Co3O4: An active electrode material for a supercapacitor
Authors: Shwetha Kollur Prabhakarrao , Manjunatha Channegowda , Sudha Kamath Mangalore Krishna , Vinaykumar  , Radhika Mallesara Ganesh Rao , Khosla Ajit
Published: July 2022

In this study, the authors present a morphology‐controlled synthesis strategy for the preparation of Co3O4 nanoparticles. The importance of the fuel (ascorbic acid) to oxidiser (cobalt nitrate) ratio (F/O ratio) in obtaining evenly distributed nanoscale grain Co3O4 with pure crystalline phases using the solution combustion method is proposed. The structural features of all the as‐formed cobalt oxide nanoparticles were studied using the powder X‐ray diffraction technique, a field emission scanning electron microscope and Raman spectroscopic techniques. The electrochemical characteristics of all the as‐formed cobalt oxide nanoparticle‐embedded electrodes were examined by cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge–discharge studies and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in a 2 M KOH solution. The electrochemical data demonstrated that the Co3O4 nanoparticles showed good capacitive behaviour. The morphological changes in the Co3O4 nanoparticles affect the charge storage mechanism, and Co3O4 nanoparticles with an F/O ratio equal to 1 (COO2) showed the highest electrochemical property, with a specific capacitance of 166 F g−1 at a current density 0.5 A g−1. The COO2 electrode material showed capacitance retention of 90% after 5000 cycles.
MicroCT scanning and direct AMS dating of charred sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) fragments from Nombe rockshelter in the highlands of Papua New Guinea
Authors: BARRON ALEESE , MOUNTAIN MARY‐JANE , DENHAM TIM
Published: July 2022

Here, we report on the results of microCT scanning and Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) radiocarbon dating of fragments of charred archaeological parenchyma collected from surface deposits at Nombe rockshelter in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. Five fragments are taxonomically identified as sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas). Two subsamples from the largest fragment yield a combined AMS date range of c. 300–148 calBP (with median probabilities of 187 and 195 calBP respectively). Although post‐dating European voyaging in the Indo‐Pacific, these findings contribute to the corpus of information regarding the antiquity of sweet potato on the island of New Guinea.
Age related increase in internal jugular vein size parallels temporal development of periventricular white matter hyperintensities
Authors: Alqabbani Abdullah , Maralani Pejman , Zaccagna Fulvio , Grist James T. , Kapadia Anish
Published: July 2022

Age‐related white matter hyperintensities are associated with cognitive impairment and dementia. Venous insufficiency has recently been proposed as a potential mechanism for the development of periventricular white matter hyperintensities based on the neuroanatomic distribution. The current study assesses age related changes of the internal jugular veins and its association with white matter hyperintensities. A retrospective study was performed assessing patients with computed tomography angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) within a 4‐week window. The size of the internal jugular veins, straight sinus, vein of Galen and internal cerebral veins were measured on the CT angiography. A normalized neck venous ratio was developed. Burden of white matter hyperintensities were quantified on MRI using periventricular/deep Fazekas scores. Association was assessed using correlation analysis and multrivariate linear modeling, and differences between groups were assessed using t test, ANOVA or Kruskal–Wallis test, using p < 0.05 for significance. One hundred eighty‐two patients were included with a mean age of 65.2 ± 16.8 (51.6% females). Age was correlated with the normalized neck venous ratio (rs = 0.25, p < 0.001), and, with both, the periventricular Fazekas (rs = 0.63, p < 0.001) and the deep Fazekas (rs = 0.57, p < 0.001) grades. The periventricular Fazekas score was positively correlated with the normalized neck venous ratio (rs = 0.21, p = 0.003), but not significant on multivariate analysis accounting for age. The internal jugular veins demonstrate age related increase in size, paralleling the progression of periventricular white matter hyperintensities. Age remains the strongest predictor of white matter hyperintensities. Further work is needed to evaluate any causal role of venous changes on white matter hyperintensities.
Iridium‐Doped 10H‐Phase Perovskite BaCo0.8Fe0.15Ir0.05O3–δ as an Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction Catalyst
Authors: Liu Huimin , Luo Qinxin , Hu Jiaping , Wei Lianwei , Zhang Wanqun , Zheng Hui , Wu Shusheng , Tang Kaibin
Published: July 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Designing low‐cost and high‐performance catalysts of electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) has always been one of the hot topics in current research. Hexagonal perovskite materials show great application potential in this field. Here, we synthesized 5% Iridium (Ir)‐doped hexagonal phase perovskite BaCo0.8Fe0.15Ir0.05O3–δ (BCFI). Using the Rietveld method to refine the structure, combining with the spherical aberration corrected high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF‐STEM) atomic imaging, we found that BCFI is a ten‐layer hexagonal (10H) structure, which belongs to the Pm2 space group. In addition, BCFI shows excellent OER catalytic effect and good stability in 1 mol/L KOH solution, and the overpotential reaches 294 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm–2. The reduction of Cobalt (Co) valence state induced by Ir doping significantly enhances the OER activity of BCFI. Meanwhile, density functional theory (DFT) calculations show that the 2p‐band center of oxygen (O) in BCFI is closer to the Fermi level than that in undoped BaCo0.8Fe0.2O3‐δ (BCF), which is beneficial to the OER. This work reveals a novel 10H‐BCFI material with excellent OER performance, and provides a basis for the design of hexagonal perovskite materials in OER and other energy conversion fields.
An Activatable Near‐Infrared Molecular Chemiluminescence Probe for Visualization of NQO1 Activity In Vivo†
Authors: Liu Jianyong , Chen Zhongxiang , Huo Hongqi , Chen Lanlan , Wu Ying , Zhang Xuan , Su Lichao , Li Qian , Song Jibin
Published: July 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Chemiluminescence (CL) is a promising tool for diagnostics and sensing due to its inherent excitation light‐free. However, most CL probes emit exclusively visible light with limited penetration depth, hindering their broad application for in vivo deep tissue imaging. This work reports an activated unimolecular CL probe (CL‐P) that emits light in the near‐infrared (NIR) region allowing a superior real‐time visualization and detection of NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) in vivo. The NQO1‐specific trimethyl‐locked quinone is a lock for masking the NQO1 trigger site, and it was conjugated on the NIR Schaap's dioxetane chemiluminophore, achieving not only a subtle signal‐to‐noise ratio even at a depth of 15 mm in the chicken breast tissues, but also sensitively detecting the positive expression of NQO1 in A549 cells. CL‐P has been successfully used for visualizing the aberrantly expressed NQO1 in subcutaneous xenograft A549 tumors. To our knowledge, this is the first work reporting the detection of NQO1 activity in the NIR region by unimolecular CL mode. Overall, the NQO1‐activated visualization platform provides a guideline to transform a unimolecular CL sensor into a licensed imaging agent for the in vivo detection of enzyme‐related diseases.
The Italian Consensus for the Classification and Reporting of Thyroid Cytology: Cytohistologic and molecular correlations on 37,371 nodules from a single institution
Authors: Torregrossa Liborio , Poma Anello Marcello , Macerola Elisabetta , Rago Teresa , Vignali Paola , Romani Rossana , Proietti Agnese , Di Stefano Iosè , Scuotri Giuditta , Ugolini Clara , Basolo Alessio , Antonelli Alessandro , Materazzi Gabriele , Santini Ferruccio , Basolo Fulvio
Published: July 2022

Background

The Italian Consensus for the Classification and Reporting of Thyroid Cytology (ICCRTC) includes six diagnostic categories (TIR 1/1C, TIR 2, TIR 3A, TIR 3B, TIR 4, and TIR 5), each indicating a different risk of malignancy. The objective of this monocentric retrospective study was to evaluate the distribution of the ICCRTC classes at the authors’ institution and assess their cytohistologic correlations.

Methods

The authors retrospectively collected 37,371 consecutive cytologic reports of thyroid nodules and described the clinical–pathologic features of the different cytologic categories. The cytologic diagnoses also were compared with histologic outcomes in a subset of patients.

Results

The cytologic classes were distributed as follows: nondiagnostic, 15.6%; benign, 66.5%; low‐risk indeterminate, 10% (TIR 3A); high‐risk indeterminate, 3.5% (TIR 3B); suspicious, 1.7%; and malignant, 2.6%. According to histology, the risk of malignancy was very high in the nondiagnostic category (29.8%), with young male patients more exposed to malignancy, and it was relatively high among benign (7.8%) and indeterminate nodules (32.5% in TIR 3A; 52.1% in TIR 3B), mainly because of the high prevalence of follicular architecture in malignant tumors. On histology, the malignancy rates were 92.4% and 99.3% for the suspicious and malignant categories, respectively; aggressive variants of papillary thyroid carcinoma were mostly diagnosed in these categories.

Conclusions

In this series, nondiagnostic nodules showed high prevalence and, surprisingly, high malignancy rates. Malignant tumors with follicular architecture represented a diagnostic pitfall in benign and indeterminate nodules. The suspicious and malignant categories had high specificity for malignancy. Importantly, the ICCRTC had high reliability for identifying preoperatively aggressive histotypes of thyroid carcinoma.
Association genetics of early season cold and late season frost tolerance in Sorghum bicolor
Authors: Elango Dinakaran , Wang Xiaoyu , Bhatnagar Rohil Sahai , Tan Qixian , Gaffoor Iffa , Hu Zhenbin , Xue Weiya , Roth Gregory W. , Morris Geoffrey P. , Reddivari Lavanya , Chopra Surinder
Published: July 2022

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is a multipurpose crop that is highly susceptible to low temperature stress. Early season cold (ESC) greatly affects seed germination, seedling vigor, and root architecture, whereas late‐season frost (LSF) reduces fertility, yield, and nutrition quality and content in sorghum. Here, an association mapping study was conducted to delineate the genetics of ESC and LSF tolerance in sorghum. A total of 10 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 17 quantitative trait loci (QTL) were identified for ESC, and 40 SNPs were identified for LSF. The diversity panel exhibited extensive variation for plant traits measured for their association with ESC and LSF tolerance. Two QTL colocalized with the classical tannin genes Tan1 (S4_61580203) and Tan2 (S2_7777693) were identified for ESC tolerance. We also identified additional putative candidate genes such as Sobic.001G157100 (Nonphototropic hypocotyl 3, NPH3), Sobic.001G156600 (Lectin receptor‐like serine/threonine kinase), and Sobic.006G061100 (Sucrose nonfermenting 1 related protein kinase 1, SnRK1) for ESC tolerance and Sobic.006G139900 (UDP‐glucoronosyl and UDP‐glucosyl transferase), Sobic.002G187400 (Serine/threonine protein kinase), and Sobic.004G333700 (Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein phosphatase) for LSF tolerance. Tan1 and Tan2 play a major role in seed dormancy and induce resistance against soil‐borne pathogens under cold and wet soil conditions. Seed tannin content may be used as an indirect selection marker for identifying cold tolerant germplasm for breeding. NPH3 and SnRK1 regulate seed germinability under cold stress in various crops. Candidates identified in this study could be further exploited to develop low temperature tolerant cultivars as proxies in marker‐assisted breeding, genomic selection, and genetic engineering.
Glycolipid‐peptide conjugate vaccines elicit CD8+ T‐cell responses and prevent breast cancer metastasis
Authors: Burn Olivia K , Farrand Kathryn , Pritchard Tara , Draper Sarah , Tang Ching‐wen , Mooney Anna H , Schmidt Alfonso J , Yang Sung H , Williams Geoffrey M , Brimble Margaret A , Kandasamy Matheswaran , Marshall Andrew J , Clarke Kate , Painter Gavin F , Hermans Ian F , Weinkove Robert
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Metastasis is the principal cause of breast cancer mortality. Vaccines targeting breast cancer antigens have yet to demonstrate clinical efficacy, and there remains an unmet need for safe and effective treatment to reduce the risk of metastasis, particularly for people with triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC). Certain glycolipids can act as vaccine adjuvants by specifically stimulating natural killer T (NKT) cells to provide a universal form of T‐cell help.

Methods

We designed and made a series of conjugate vaccines comprising a prodrug of the NKT cell‐activating glycolipid α‐galactosylceramide covalently linked to tumor‐expressed peptides, and assessed these using E0771‐ and 4T1‐based breast cancer models in vivo. We employed peptides from the model antigen ovalbumin and from clinically relevant breast cancer antigens HER2 and NY‐ESO‐1.

Results

Glycolipid‐peptide conjugate vaccines that activate NKT cells led to antigen‐presenting cell activation, induced inflammatory cytokines, and, compared with peptide alone or admixed peptide and α‐galactosylceramide, specifically enhanced CD8+ T‐cell responses against tumor‐associated peptides. Primary tumor growth was delayed by vaccination in all tumor models. Using 4T1‐based cell lines expressing HER2 or NY‐ESO‐1, a single administration of the relevant conjugate vaccine prevented tumor colonisation of the lung following intravenous inoculation of tumor cells or spontaneous metastasis from breast, respectively.

Conclusion

Glycolipid‐peptide conjugate vaccines that activate NKT cells prevent lung metastasis in breast cancer models and warrant investigation as adjuvant therapies for high‐risk breast cancer.
Health‐related quality of life of people with type 2 diabetes and its associated factors at a tertiary care clinic in Ningbo, China: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Carter Naomi , Li Jialin , Xu Miao , Li Li , Fan Xuelan , Zhu Shuyan , Chahal Pritpal , Chattopadhyay Kaushik
Published: July 2022

Introduction

The burden of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in China is increasing, with potential impacts on the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) of those who develop the disease. Context‐specific assessment of HRQoL and its associated factors informs the development of contextually appropriate interventions to improve HRQoL. This study aimed to determine the HRQoL and its associated factors in people with T2DM at a tertiary care clinic in Ningbo, China.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was undertaken among 406 people with T2DM in 2020–21. The primary outcome was HRQoL measured using EQ VAS and EQ‐5D index from the EQ‐5D‐3L questionnaire. Multivariable regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with HRQoL scores.

Results

The mean (± standard deviation) EQ VAS score was 68.7 (13.8). Median (interquartile range) EQ‐5D index was 1 (0.027). Prevalence of problems in HRQoL domains was as follows: pain/discomfort (15.7%), anxiety/depression (13.3%), mobility (5.4%), self‐care (3.5%) and managing usual activities (5.2%). The ≥60 years age group had a mean EQ VAS score 8.7 points higher (95% CI 3.4, 13.9; p < .001) than the 18–39 years age group. Those with T2DM >10 years had a mean EQ VAS score 8.6 points lower than those with a duration <1 year (−12.8, −4.4; p = .001). A T2DM duration >10 years was associated with a reduction in the EQ‐5D index of 0.029 (−0.041, −0.016; p < .001) compared with a duration <1 year.

Conclusions

Depression/anxiety and pain/discomfort are important domains of reduced HRQoL for this population. A longer duration of T2DM is associated with reduced HRQoL scores, including both EQ VAS and EQ‐5D index. Increasing age may be counterintuitively associated with an increase in EQ VAS score in this population, potentially reflecting a ‘paradox of aging’ process. Future work should focus on developing, evaluating and implementing interventions to improve HRQoL in T2DM, such as strategies to manage pain and mental health conditions.
Midazolam versus morphine in acute cardiogenic pulmonary oedema: results of a multicentre, open‐label, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Domínguez‐Rodríguez Alberto , Suero‐Mendez Coral , Burillo‐Putze Guillermo , Gil Victor , Calvo‐Rodriguez Rafael , Piñera‐Salmeron Pascual , Llorens Pere , Martín‐Sánchez Francisco J. , Abreu‐Gonzalez Pedro , Miró Òscar ,   MIMO (MIdazolam versus MOrphine) Trial Investigators
Published: July 2022

Aims

Benzodiazepines have been used as safe anxiolytic drugs for decades and some authors have suggested they could be an alternative for morphine for treating acute cardiogenic pulmonary oedema (ACPE). We compared the efficacy and safety of midazolam and morphine in patients with ACPE.

Methods and results

A randomized, multicentre, open‐label, blinded endpoint clinical trial was performed in seven Spanish emergency departments (EDs). Patients >18 years old clinically diagnosed with ACPE and with dyspnoea and anxiety were randomized (1:1) at ED arrival to receive either intravenous midazolam or morphine. Efficacy was assessed by in‐hospital all‐cause mortality (primary endpoint). Safety was assessed through serious adverse event (SAE) reporting, and the composite endpoint included 30‐day mortality and SAE. Analyses were made on an intention‐to‐treat basis. The trial was stopped early after a planned interim analysis by the safety monitoring committee. At that time, 111 patients had been randomized: 55 to midazolam and 56 to morphine. There were no significant differences in the primary endpoint (in‐hospital mortality for midazolam vs. morphine 12.7% vs. 17.9%; risk ratio[RR] 0.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.29–1.74; p = 0.60). SAE were less common with midazolam versus morphine (18.2% vs. 42.9%; RR 0.42, 95% CI 0.22–0.80; p = 0.007), as were the composite endpoint (23.6% vs. 44.6%; RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.30–0.92; p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Although the number of patients was too small to draw final conclusions and there were no significant differences in mortality between midazolam and morphine, a significantly higher rate of SAEs was found in the morphine group.
Autistic characteristics in youth with anorexia nervosa before and after treatment
Authors: Susanin Annabel , Cooper Marita , Makara Amanda , Kuschner Emily S. , Timko C. Alix
Published: July 2022

Objective

Cognitive characteristics common to autistic individuals are often seen in adults with anorexia nervosa (AN), raising the question of whether autistic people and people with AN may share an endophenotype. We need to examine autistic characteristics during the early stages of AN to accurately parse true symptom co‐occurrence from behavioural alterations due to prolonged illness.

Methods

We conducted a post‐hoc analysis examining autistic characteristics in 59 youth with AN. Adolescents and parents participating in a randomised‐clinical trial for AN completed questionnaires probing autistic characteristics at baseline and treatment end. We categorised participants as above or below cut‐offs of clinical indicators of autism using the Autism Probability Index (API) and the Autism Spectrum Quotient‐10.

Results

Rates of high autistic characteristics ranged between 0% and 36% depending on the instrument used and how the data was obtained (i.e., by informant report or self‐report). Paternal report of autistic characteristics differed across treatment completers versus non completers and maternal report indicated lower weight gain for those with elevated characteristics.

Conclusions

Low rates of autism and fluctuations in autistic features during treatment underscore the importance of longitudinal examinations of autistic characteristics in adolescents with AN. Future studies need to replicate findings in a larger adolescent sample.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrails.gov Identifier NCT03928028.
Bioinspired mechanically interlocking holey graphene@SiO2 anode
Authors: Wang Fei , Liao Xiaobin , Wang Haoyu , Zhao Yan , Mao Jian , Truhlar Donald G.
Published: July 2022

Mechanically interlocking structures that can enhance adhesion at the interface and regulate the stress distribution have been widely observed in biological systems. Inspired by the biological structures in the wings of beetles, we synthesized a holey graphene@SiO2 anode with strong mechanical interlocking, characterized it electrochemically, and explained its performance by finite element analysis and density functional calculations. The mechanically interlocking structure enhances lithium‐ion (Li+) storage by transmitting the strain from SiO2 to the holey graphene and by a mechano‐electrochemical coupling effect. The interlocking fit hinders the abscission of SiO2 and the distinctive structure reduces the stress and strain of SiO2 during (de)lithiation. The positive mechano‐electrochemical coupling effect preserves the amount of electrochemically active phase (LixSi) during cycles and facilitates Li+ diffusion. Therefore, the capacity shows only a slight attenuation after 8000 cycles (cycling stability), and the specific capacity is ~1200 mA h g−1 at 5 A/g (rate‐performance). This study furnishes a novel way to design high‐performance Li+/Na+/K+/Al3+ anodes with large volume expansion.
Provider‐perceived acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness of home blood pressure monitoring in Ghana
Authors: Lawrence Emma R. , Atluri Namratha , Compton Sarah , Beyuo Titus K.
Published: July 2022

Synopsis

Obstetric providers believe that adoption of patient‐performed home blood pressure monitoring would be acceptable, feasible, and appropriate among pregnant women in urban Ghana.
Evaluating the efficacy of ovulation stimulation with intrauterine insemination in women with diminished ovarian reserve compared to women with normal ovarian reserve
Authors: Kaleli Semih , Kervancıoğlu Mehmet E. , Erol Naciye , Alakbarova Ulviyya , Akşahin Elif , Öçer İsmail F.
Published: July 2022

Objective

To assess the efficacy of ovulation induction and intrauterine insemination (IUI) in couples with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR).

Methods

Women aged 20–39 years and men younger than 50 years were included. Four “ovarian reserve groups” were created according to anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) and the partner's age. Gestational sac finding on ultrasound examination was the primary outcome measure.

Results

The study was carried out on a total of 770 cycles of 362 women in an infertility cohort that consisted of 75 women with DOR treated by 153 cycles and 287 women without DOR treated by 617 cycles. The pregnancy rate was similar in the four ovarian reserve groups in terms of first, second, third plus fourth, and total attempts of IUI cycles. Moreover, the pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, and multiple pregnancy rate were similar. We found no difference in the cumulative pregnancy rate among the groups after four IUI cycles. Multivariate logistic regression analysis of the entire cohort revealed that infertility duration, post‐wash sperm count, and follicle number greater than 11 mm on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin trigger were independent predictors of pregnancy (P < 0.001). Neither age nor AMH predicted pregnancy after ovulation stimulation and IUI.

Conclusions

Ovulation stimulation and IUI are equally effective in women with DOR and in women with normal ovarian reserve in terms of pregnancy rate, multiple pregnancy rate, and miscarriage rate per IUI cycle or cumulative pregnancy rate after four cycles of IUI.
Existence of chronic endometritis and its influence on pregnancy outcomes in infertile women with minimal/mild endometriosis
Authors: Qiao Xinyu , Wu Lukanxuan , Liu Dong , Pei Tianjiao , Huang Wei
Published: July 2022

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of chronic endometritis (CE) in women with minimal/mild endometriosis and to analyze whether CE affects their pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective study included 201 infertile women who were diagnosed with minimal/mild endometriosis after undergoing hysteroscopy combined with laparoscopy from January 2016 to December 2018. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect CD138 and CD38, which are specific markers of plasma cells in the endometrial stroma to diagnose CE. Subsequently, we investigated the prevalence of CE and the effects of CE on spontaneous cumulative pregnancy rate, live birth rate, and miscarriage rate within 24 months after surgery.

Results

The prevalence of CE in infertile women with minimal/mild endometriosis was 24.38%. Patients diagnosed with CE showed a significantly lower cumulative pregnancy rate and live birth rate compared with women without CE (46.51% vs. 71.13% [P = 0.004]; 44.19% vs. 63.38% [P = 0.025]). However, the rate of miscarriage in women with CE was also lower than in women without CE (0 vs. 7.04%, P = 0.074).

Conclusion

Since CE had an adverse effect on cumulative pregnancy rate and live birth rate in infertile women with minimal/mild endometriosis, we suggested that diagnosis and treatment of CE may improve their pregnancy outcomes.
Efficacy of the new adjustable I‐stop‐mini sling system in women with stress urinary incontinence and intrinsic sphincter deficiency: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chao Wei‐Ting , Chen Guan‐Yeu , Liu Chia‐Hao , Chang Chia‐Pei , Wang Peng‐Hui , Horng Huann‐Cheng
Published: July 2022

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy, surgical outcomes, and adverse events of the adjustable midurethral sling I‐stop‐mini in women with intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD)–type stress urinary incontinence. We compared this new sling system with the Obtryx transobturator midurethral sling system.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single center from June 2017 to December 2020. A total of 141 women who underwent placement of an I‐stop‐mini or Obtryx and were followed up for at least 1 year were enrolled. ISD was defined as a Valsalva leak point pressure of ≤60 cmH2O or a maximal urethral closure pressure of ≤20 cmH2O. Student t test was used to compare continuous variables, and chi‐square test was used to compare the distribution of categorical data.

Results

In terms of objective success, I‐stop‐mini and Obtryx showed no significant differences in the postoperative 1‐month, 6‐month, and 12‐month. The two devices showed similar effectiveness regardless of the ISD definition. The I‐stop‐mini group had a significantly shorter operative time, whereas the adverse event rates were similar.

Conclusion

The subjective cure rate, objective success, and adverse event rate did not differ in the two devices. I‐stop‐mini had a significantly shorter operative time.
Causative factors, social and surgical outcomes of vesicovaginal fistulas treated via an abdominal transvesical approach: A single‐center experience
Authors: Asif Muhammad , Abrar Saida , Abrar Tahira
Published: July 2022

Objective

To study the demographics, and surgical and social outcomes of patients with fistula repair performed at our hospital.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 120 patients with fistula repair performed between 2014 and 2019 in the Urology Department of Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar using an open transvesical repair method without omental interposition. Data were collected on patients' demographics, and social and surgical outcomes. Fistula severity was assessed using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Short Form (ICIQ‐SF).

Results

About 80 (66.6%) fistulas were iatrogenic and 40 (33.3%) were ischemic, with 36 (90%) due to obstructed labor. The median age of patients was 36 years (29–40 years). The majority of the patients were multiparous and premenopausal (99; 82.5%). Fifty (56.5%) of the iatrogenic fistulas were due to non‐obstetric hysterectomy, and 20 (25%) were due to cesarean hysterectomy. Women had the fistulas for 4–49 weeks before seeking treatment with an average ICIQ score of 18. In all, 73 (73%) of the fistula caused by delivery had involved stillbirths, 4 (3.96%) were early neonatal deaths, and nearly 25 (21%) of patients were divorced. About 114 (95%) of patients were completely cured on discharge.

Conclusion

Vesicovaginal fistula is a devastating condition, with a rising trend in iatrogenic fistulas in low‐income countries. In the hands of experienced surgeons, trans‐abdominal repair without omental interposition shows a high success rate.
Secretion of the disulphide bond generating catalyst QSOX1 from pancreatic tumour cells into the extracellular matrix: Association with extracellular vesicles and matrix proteins
Authors: Millar‐Haskell Catherine S. , Sperduto John L. , Slater John H. , Thorpe Colin , Gleghorn Jason P.
Published: July 2022

Quiescin sulfhydryl oxidase 1 (QSOX1) is a disulphide bond generating catalyst that is overexpressed in solid tumours. Expression of QSOX1 is linked to cancer cell invasion, tumour grade, and aberrant extracellular matrix (ECM) protein deposition. While the secreted version of QSOX1 is known to be present in various fluids and secretory tissues, its presence in the ECM of cancer is less understood. To characterize secreted QSOX1, we isolated extracellular vesicles (and particles) (EV(P)s) from conditioned media using ultracentrifugation and separated the supernatant using tangential flow filtration. We discovered that most of the secreted QSOX1 resides in the EVP‐depleted supernatant and in the soluble protein fraction. Very little QSOX1 could be detected in the EVP fraction. We used immunofluorescence to image subpopulations of EVs and found QSOX1 in Golgi‐derived vesicles and medium/large vesicles, but in general, most extracellular QSOX1 was not attributed to these vesicles. Next, we quantified QSOX1 co‐localization with the EV marker Alix. For the medium/large EVs, ∼98% contained QSOX1 when fibronectin was used as a coating. However, on collagen coatings, only ∼60% of these vesicles contained QSOX1, suggesting differences in EV cargo based on ECM coated surfaces. About 10% of small EVs co‐localized with QSOX1 on every ECM protein surface except for collagen (0.64%). We next investigated adhesion of QSOX1 to ECM proteins in vitro and in situ and found that QSOX1 preferentially adheres to fibronectin, laminins, and Matrigel compared to gelatin and collagen. This mechanism was found to be, in part, mediated by the formation of mixed disulphides between QSOX1 and cysteine‐rich ECM proteins. In summary, we found that QSOX1 (1) is in subpopulations of medium/large EVs, (2) seems to interact with small Alix+ EVs, and (3) adheres to cysteine‐rich ECM proteins, potentially through the formation of intermediate disulphides. These observations offer significant insight into how enzymes, such as QSOX1, can facilitate matrix remodelling events in solid tumour progression.