bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AuAg plasmonic nanoalloys with asymmetric charge distribution on CeO2 nanorods for selective photocatalytic CO2‐to‐CH4 conversion
Authors: Yan Bo‐Hua , Xu Bao‐Rong , Jin Yu , Xiao Hang , Luo Shi‐Cheng , Duan Rui‐Huan , Li He , Yan Xiao‐Qing , Lin Bo , Yang Gui‐Dong
Published: October 2024

Converting CO2 under mild conditions by employing semiconductor photocatalysts is promising to address global environmental issues. However, the current CO2 conversion efficiency is limited by the difficulty activating the thermodynamically stable CO2 molecules. Constructing plasmonic nanoalloy‐based photocatalytic systems with significant localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) is full of potential but remains a vast challenge. In this work, AuAg plasmonic nanoalloys were incorporated on CeO2 nanorods (designated as AuAg–CeO2) to achieve selective photoreduction of CO2. The result displays that Ag can serve as a superior electron modifier to promote the electron enrichment of Au, thus producing asymmetric charge distributions to boost the selective conversion of CO2. Furthermore, the improved LSPR effect on AuAg–CeO2 induces the generation of high‐energy hot electrons under irradiation, enhancing the reactivity of electrons for CO2 photoreduction. Due to the aforementioned effects, AuAg–CeO2 exhibits a high CO2‐to‐CH4 performance of 92.6 μmol g−1 through a 3‐h test and a high CH4 selectivity of 94.5%, up to 2.6, 8.7, and 17.1 times higher than the activity of Au–CeO2, pure CeO2, and Ag–CeO2, respectively. This work can provide a new perspective for constructing high‐performance catalysts for photocatalytic CO2 reduction.
Review of Catalytic Electrodes Containing Iron‐Cobalt‐Nickel Composite Components for Water Electrolysis
Authors: Du Ming , Lv Xiao , Yong Cao Zhi , Jun Wang Qi , Qu Jun‐e
Published: October 2024

Transition metal‐based electrocatalytic materials for hydrogen production through water splitting offer advantages in terms of price and availability compared to noble metal‐based catalysts, among which, Fe‐, Co‐, and Ni‐based compounds are the most typical and widely studied materials. Utilizing the synergistic effects between composite components in compounds containing multiple metal elements is an important way to improve the catalytic performance of catalysts, so developing ternary or multiple active center catalysts containing Fe, Co, and Ni is a promising direction. In this mini‐review, we provide an summary of the latest achievements of water splitting catalyst materials simultaneously containing Fe, Co, and Ni elements. It was summarized according to several groups including compounds of boron‐/carbon‐/nitrogen‐/phosphorus‐/oxygen‐group elements, metal‐organic framework‐based compounds, and compounds in situ grown from alloy matrix. Also challenges that need to be addressed are presented at the end of the article.
Efficient Hydrocracking of Waste Polyethylene into Branched Liquid Fuels over Low Pt‐loaded Nb2O5 Catalyst
Authors: Lu Shenglu , Liu Xiaohui , Guo Yong , Wang Yanqin
Published: October 2024

Catalytic hydrocracking of polyethylene to branched liquid fuels has drawn particular attention. Here, bifunctional Pt/Nb2O5 catalysts with different Pt loadings were prepared for polyethylene hydrocracking. It was found that the low‐loading Pt/Nb2O5 catalysts exhibited significantly higher catalytic activity than those of high‐loading Pt/Nb2O5 catalysts, with the 0.2Pt/Nb2O5 catalyst having the best catalytic performance (79.2 % yield of liquid fuels (C5−C19) with branched alkanes accounting for 85.2 %). Detailed characterizations revealed that the activation of H2 played a crucial role in the efficient hydrocracking of polyethylene. The 0.2Pt/Nb2O5 catalyst, with highly dispersed Pt nanoclusters on the surface, facilitated the highly active Hδ− species formation, thereby enhancing hydrocracking activity. This work highlights the importance of H2 activation in the hydrocracking of polyethylene and provides insights for the design of efficient catalysts.
The role of microglia in neurocognitive deficits induced by general anaesthetic agents during neurodevelopment
Authors: Liang Xinyue , Fang Fang , Wang Xiaoqing , Jiang Ming , Cang Jing
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Microglia are the innate immune cells of central nervous system which play critical roles in brain homeostasis. Recently, the effects of general anesthetic agents (GAAs) on microglia and their potential neurotoxicity in neurodevelopment have attracted the attention of anesthesiologists and neuroscientists.

Methods

Here, we review the physiology of microglia in neurodevelopment, the potential mechanisms of GAAs on microglia and the consequent changes in microglial function.

Outcomes

Microglia‐mediated neuroinflammation is a key mechanism of neurocognitive deficits during neurodevelopment. In addition, microglia could be primed by active inflammatory processes and have innate immune memory, both of which make them a potential candidate responsible of long‐term neural deficits.

Conclusion

This review aims in summarizing the in vivo and in vitro studies associating microglia with general anesthesia and describing how GAAs induce neurocognitive deficits via microglia to further explore the effects of GAAs on neurodevelopment.
Rapid and Effective Determination of Ethyl Glucuronide in Hair by Micro Extraction by Packed Sorbent (MEPS) and LC‐MS/MS
Authors: Odoardi Sara , Mestria Serena , Valentini Valeria , Biosa Giulia , Rossi Sabina Strano
Published: October 2024

Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) in hair is a reliable biomarker of alcohol consumption habits. Due to its small concentration incorporated into hair, analytical methods sensitive enough to reliably quantify EtG in this matrix are required. Sample preparation is critical in hair analysis, especially for EtG, for which extraction efficiency and matrix effect can strongly influence the results; furthermore, miniaturized methods are sought, to reduce solvent use and times of sample preparation. A micro extraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) procedure coupled to a high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for quantitation of EtG in human hair samples. Fifty milligrams of hair samples were cut into snippets and extracted in water. The cleanup of the extract was carried out by using a MEPS syringe packed with anion exchange sorbent (SAX); all parameters for conditioning, washing, loading and eluting steps were optimized and the eluted aqueous volume was directly injected in the LC–MS/MS system operating in the negative ionization mode. The method was fully validated assessing LOD, LOQ, calibration curve, repeatability, accuracy, matrix effect and carryover. The method was subsequently applied to QCs and authentic hair samples. The developed MEPS method is quick and effective, with low solvent purchase and discard costs, allowing the differentiation between social drinkers and chronic excessive alcohol consumers, according to the cut‐offs established by the Society of Hair Testing (SoHT).
Hypolith Distribution Within a Dewy Drainage Basin: Possible Link to Dew or Rather to Rain?
Authors: Kidron Giora J. , Kronenfeld Rafael , Starinsky Abraham , McKay Christopher
Published: October 2024

The water source of hypoliths is a matter of controversy, with some scholars advocating the role of nonrainfall water (NRW), principally dew or fog as the main water sources, while others maintain that it is rain. In the Negev Highlands, where lichens cover > 90% of the upper surfaces of cobblestones, hypoliths may also reside on the undersides of these cobblestones. In an attempt to evaluate the possible role of rain, dew and fog, the abundance, cover and chlorophyll content of the hypoliths on 10–20 cm × 5–10 cm cobblestones was measured at five slope locations at the hilltop (HT) and the upper parts of the north‐facing (NF), south‐facing (SF), east‐facing (EF) and west‐facing (WF) slopes, which were characterised by contrasting abiotic conditions. Within each slope location, 50 and 10 cobblestones were randomly, respectively, collected to evaluate the abundance and cover and to measure their chlorophyll content. In addition, field measurements were conducted to evaluate the ability of rain, dew and fog to wet the hypoliths. Our results indicate that (a) hypoliths were confined to cobblestones lying loosely on the ground; (b) while similar chlorophyll content characterised patches with hypoliths at all slope locations, their abundance and cover were the highest at NF and WF, followed by HT, with SF and EF exhibiting the lowest values; (c) our measurements did not show direct wetting by dew, fog or rain. We therefore suggest that distillation may be the main source of water. Our suggestion implies that a reduction in rain, but even more importantly, elevated nocturnal temperatures during the rainy period, may have a great negative effect on the hypolithic population.
Mesopredator release moderates trophic control of plant biomass in a Georgia salt marsh
Authors: Morton Joseph P. , Hensel Marc J. S. , DeLaMater David S. , Angelini Christine , Atkins Rebecca L. , Prince Kimberly D. , Williams Sydney L. , Boyd Anjali D. , Parsons Jennifer , Resetarits Emlyn J. , Smith Carter S. , Valdez Stephanie , Monnet Evan , Farhan Roxanne , Mobilian Courtney , Renzi Julianna , Smith Dontrece , Craft Christopher , Byers James E. , Alber Merryl , Pennings Steven C. , Silliman Brian R.
Published: October 2024

Predators regulate communities through top‐down control in many ecosystems. Because most studies of top‐down control last less than a year and focus on only a subset of the community, they may miss predator effects that manifest at longer timescales or across whole food webs. In southeastern US salt marshes, short‐term and small‐scale experiments indicate that nektonic predators (e.g., blue crab, fish, terrapins) facilitate the foundational grass, Spartina alterniflora, by consuming herbivorous snails and crabs. To test both how nekton affect marsh processes when the entire animal community is present, and how prior results scale over time, we conducted a 3‐year nekton exclusion experiment in a Georgia salt marsh using replicated 19.6 m2 plots. Our nekton exclusions increased densities of plant‐grazing snails and juvenile deposit‐feeding fiddler crab and, in Year 2, reduced predation on tethered juvenile snails, indicating that nektonic predators control these key macroinvertebrates. However, in Year 3, densities of mesopredatory benthic mud crabs increased threefold in nekton exclusions, erasing the tethered snails' predation refuge. Nekton exclusion had no effect on Spartina biomass, likely because the observed mesopredator release suppressed grazing snail densities and elevated densities of fiddler crabs, whose burrowing alleviates soil stresses. Structural equation modeling supported the hypotheses that nektonic predators and mesopredators control invertebrate communities, with nektonic predators having stronger total effects on Spartina than mud crabs by controlling densities of species that both suppress (grazers) and facilitate (fiddler crabs) plant growth. These findings highlight that salt marshes can be resilient to multiyear reductions in nektonic predators if mesopredators are present and that multiple pathways of trophic control manifest in different ways over time to mediate community dynamics. These results highlight that larger scale and longer‐term experiments can illuminate community dynamics not previously understood, even in well‐studied ecosystems such as salt marshes.
Mechanisms of Separation of the Elastic Step and the Thermal Step
Authors: Miyashita Seiji , Nishino Masamichi , Enachescu Cristian
Published: October 2024

The elastic interaction causes a two‐step conversion from the low‐spin (LS) to the high‐spin state (HS) following a femtosecond laser pulse excitation. These steps occur on different timescales: a spin conversion (elastic step) in a short time due to pressure propagation and a late spin conversion (thermal step) resulting from heat diffusion. In this paper, we provide a brief review of models for spin crossover phenomena, emphasizing the role of the difference of degeneracy of the HS state and LS state and elastic interaction due to changes in local structures. We also review theoretical approaches to these effects. Additionally, to analyze the dynamical process of spin conversion after photo‐irradiation, it is necessary to consider mechanisms of heat transfer among spins. Recently, we proposed a two‐temperature model that incorporates both lattice and spin temperatures, which enables us to reproduce the two steps under an early uniformization of the lattice temperature, highlighting the importance of the timescales of these processes. Furthermore, we explore possible mechanisms to separate the two steps by examining the different timescales of processes of spin conversions by mechanical and entropic forces, and also by considering changes of local temperature due to spin conversion.
Electroextraction of Large Volume Samples Using Paper Points Coupled With Hollow Fiber Membranes: Study of Parameters and Strategies to Enhance Analytical Performance
Authors: Orlando Ricardo Mathias , Dvořák Miloš , Kubáň Pavel
Published: October 2024

Electroextraction (EE) encompasses a range of sample preparation methods whose effectiveness, selectivity, and efficiency are significantly influenced by the physical‐chemical characteristics of analytes, samples, and instrumental conditions. This article explores, for the first time, various strategies aimed at enhancing the extraction efficiency of a recent approach of EE utilizing a paper point (PP) combined with a hollow fiber (HF) (abbreviated as PP‐HF‐EE) to extract various cationic and anionic model compounds from water samples. The study also explores, experimentally, the impact of agitation, organic filter composition, PP diameter, and PP brand on extraction performance, and proves that all these factors are quite important, especially when digital image analysis is utilized for determination. Furthermore, this work demonstrates the ease and feasibility of simultaneously extracting cations and anions using PP‐HF‐EE and proposes a straightforward method to enhance analyte concentration on the vertex of the PP through a base‐to‐vertex focusing. Lastly, it is demonstrated, using capillary electrophoresis coupled to a UV‐Vis detector, that for PP‐HF‐EE, the extraction efficiency and pre‐concentration factor are less dependent on other parameters when multiple PPs per sample are utilized, with signal enhancement values of up to 111 and 339 for nortriptyline and haloperidol, respectively. All the findings and strategies presented herein constitute significant contributions that can facilitate future research in method development, particularly in the utilization of PP‐HF‐EE and similar EE approaches.
Automated detection of stale beef from electronic nose data
Authors: Jia Wenshen , Lv Haolin , Liu Yang , Zhou Wei , Qin Yingdong , Ma Jie
Published: October 2024

Accurate detection of stale beef on the market is important for protecting the legitimate rights and interests of consumers. To this end, we combined electronic nose measurements with machine learning technology to classify beef samples. We used an electronic nose to collect information about the odor characteristics of different beef samples and used linear discriminant analysis to reduce data dimensionality. We then classified samples using the following algorithms: extreme gradient boosting, logistic regression, K‐nearest neighbor, random forest, support vector machine, and neural networks for pattern recognition. We assessed model performance using a 10‐fold cross‐validation technique. All these methods reached an accuracy of 95% or above, with F1 scores and AUC values above 0.96. The support vector machine algorithm outperformed all other models, achieving perfect recognition with 100% accuracy and F1/AUC scores of 1.0. Our study demonstrates that electronic nose data combined with support vector machine can be used to successfully discriminate between stale and fresh beef, paving the way for novel research directions in the detection of stale beef.
Characterization of quality parameters and phytosterol content in oils and their formulated margarines
Authors: Nguyen Anh T. L. , Kaleda Aleksei , Onuh John O. , Aryee Alberta N. A.
Published: October 2024

Unlike lipid stability and oxidation studies in commonly used edible oils and margarines, margarines formulated with unconventional oils are not well characterized. This study investigated the effect of heat treatment (HT) on the stability and content of phytosterol in njangsa seed oil (NSO), bush mango oil (BMO), soybean oil (SBO), coconut oil (CCO), and margarines formulated from their blends: BN (BMO and NSO), BS (BMO and SBO), CN (CCO and NSO), CS (CCO and SBO), and commercial margarines (CM1 and CM2). Both oils and margarines were heat‐treated at 130, 170, and 210°C for 10, 15, 20, and 120 min (only oils). Changes in free fatty acid (FFA), peroxide value (PV), para‐anisidine value (AnV), and fatty acid (FA) composition and phytosterol content were determined after 20 min (margarines) and 120 min (oils) of HT and compared to their control/pre‐HT/unheated (UH) counterparts. The FA composition did not change significantly with HT. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA)‐rich oils such as NSO and SBO showed significantly higher increase in FFA content with HT compared with oils with higher saturated fatty acid content (BMO and CCO). Oils with higher proportions of linoleic acid, such as SBO (68.3%) and NSO (60.35%), had higher AnV at the end of the HT compared with oils with lower content, such as BMO (0.51%). Phytosterol content fluctuated with HT, and changes in content were generally more pronounced in β‐sitosterol than in stigmasterol and campesterol. Both principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least‐squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) were carried out to observe possible clusters. The results suggest that changes in quality and content of oils and margarines during heating are dependent on more than their fatty acid composition.
Seed Oil Contents, Fatty Acid Compositions, and Gossypol Concentrations of Some Okra Landraces
Authors: Kantar Faik , Cengiz Mehmet Fatih , Erbaş Sabri , Babacan Ümit
Published: October 2024

Okra has recently attracted attention owing to its superior tolerance to high temperatures, greater adaptation to poor soil conditions, and having a robust plant structure. The plant contains a high amount of oil and valuable fatty acids; however, the main restriction of using okra seeds as an oil crop results from its gossypol contents. The aim of this study was to determine the oil content of okra landraces and to evaluate its potential as an oil crop. For this aim, seed oil content, fatty acid compositions of cold‐pressed seed oil, and gossypol concentrations of fruit, oil cake, and seed oil were investigated in a core collection of 26 okra landraces, lines, and cultivars. Individual plants were harvested at the full maturity stage, and seeds were harvested and dried under 35°C for 2 days prior to oil extraction. Oil content, fatty acid composition, and gossypol content were analyzed by NMR, GC‐FID, and HPLC, respectively. The calibration coefficients (r2) of all the methods were determined to be > 0.99. The seed oil content of the samples ranged between 12.15% and 18.83%. Linoleic (42.01%), palmitic (31.65%), oleic (18.39%), and stearic acids (3.20%) were found to be the largest fraction of the fatty acids. The data matrix from 19 fatty acids and oil content was subjected to Principle Component Analysis (PCA). As a result, 6 principal components (PCs, eigenvalues > 1) explained 83.84% of total variance in the data set, with PC1 contributing 32.69% of the total. Gossypol contents of the fruit, oil cake, and seed oil fractions ranged between LOQ‐2.12, < LOQ‐7.01, and < LOQ‐62.46 mg/kg, respectively. In conclusion, okra may have the potential to be an alternative oil crop for food/feed purposes due to the presence of reasonable oil content, high‐quality fatty acid variations, and very low amounts of toxic gossypols, warranting further breeding and agronomic studies.
A Strengths‐Based Human Resource Management Approach to Neurodiversity: A Multi‐Actor Qualitative Study
Authors: Kersten Amber , Scholz Frederike , van Woerkom Marianne , Krabbenborg Manon , Smeets Luca
Published: October 2024

Although the attention for neurodiversity in human resource management (HRM) is growing, neurodivergent individuals are still primarily supported from a deficit‐oriented paradigm, which points towards individuals' deviation from neurotypical norms. Following the HRM process model, our study explored to what extent a strengths‐based HRM approach to the identification, use, and development of strengths of neurodivergent groups is intended, implemented, and perceived in organizations. Thirty participants were interviewed, including HRM professionals (n = 15), supervisors of neurodivergent employees (n = 4), and neurodivergent employees (n = 11). Our findings show that there is significant potential in embracing the strengths‐based approach to promote neurodiversity‐inclusion, for instance with the use of job crafting practices or (awareness) training to promote strengths use. Still, the acknowledgement of neurodivergent individuals' strengths in the workplace depends on the integration of the strengths‐based approach into a supportive framework of HR practices related to strengths identification, use, and development. Here, particular attention should be dedicated to strengths development for neurodivergent employees (e.g., optimally balancing strengths use). By adopting the strengths‐based HRM approach to neurodiversity as a means of challenging the ableist norms of organizations, we add to the HRM literature by contributing to the discussion on how both research and organizations can optimally support an increasingly diverse workforce by focusing on individual strengths.
Disease burden among patients with Arginase 1 deficiency and their caregivers: A multinational, cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Olofsson Sara , Löfvendahl Sofia , Widén Julia , Jacobson Lena , Lindgren Peter , Stepien Karolina M. , Arnoux Jean‐Baptiste , Luz Couce Pico Maria , Leão Teles Elisa , Rudebeck Mattias
Published: October 2024

Arginase 1 deficiency (ARG1‐D) is an ultrarare, metabolic disease which may cause spastic paraplegia, cognitive deficiency, seizures, and ultimately severe disability. The aim of this study was to assess disease burden in ARG1‐D by performing a cross‐sectional survey of patients with ARG1‐D and their caregivers in four European countries (France, Portugal, Spain, and the United Kingdom). Patients were enrolled at participating clinics and data were collected using a web‐based questionnaire. The findings indicate that there is a significant share of patients who experience severe cognitive and mobility impairment but also that there is a considerable variance in symptom severity among patients. Disease management was mostly in line with treatment guidelines and self‐reported adherence to treatment was reported to be high among a majority although following diet restrictions was perceived as difficult. However, despite this, since a large share of patients experienced severe cognitive and mobility impairment an unmet need among this patient population is suggested. The introduction of disease‐modifying therapies and early identification and diagnosis may help alleviate the disease burden associated with ARG1‐D in the future.
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) inhibits coronavirus infection by disrupting viral replication organelles
Authors: Song Kun , Hasan Abdul , Hao Wenzhuo , Wu Yakun , Sun Yiwen , Li Wenjun , Wang Lingyan , Li Shitao
Published: October 2024

Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) protein that plays a crucial role in cytosolic DNA‐mediated innate immunity. Both STING agonists and antagonists have demonstrated their ability to enhance mouse survival against coronavirus, however, the physiological role of endogenous STING in coronavirus infection remains unclear. Our research unveils that STING inhibits coronavirus replication by impeding the formation of the ER‐derived double‐membrane vesicles (DMVs), the organelles in which coronavirus replicates. We found that STING was still capable of inhibiting coronavirus OC43 infection in cells, regardless of the knockout of cGAS or MAVS, or blocking type I interferon receptor. Moreover, STING disrupted the interaction between two crucial proteins, NSP4 and NSP6, involved in DMV formation, leading to the disruption of DMV formation. Taken together, our study sheds light on a novel antiviral role of STING in coronavirus infection, elucidating how it disrupts the formation of viral replication organelles, thereby impeding the replication process.
Where are the magnets?—A case of misleading radiology
Authors: Nanagiri Apoorva , Pravder Samantha , Stewart Dylan , Bostwick Howard
Published: October 2024

Multiple magnet ingestion warrants appropriate and timely management to avoid serious complications. We report a case of a 14‐year‐old male with multiple magnet ingestion. Serial abdominal X‐rays with misinterpreted foreign body location delayed appropriate management.
Treatment Modalities and Risks of Complication for Patients With Localized Renal Cell Carcinoma Aged 75 and Older
Authors: Suk‐ouichai Chalairat , Patel Hiten D. , Sato Kent T. , Kundu Shilajit D. , Ross Ashley E. , Perry Kent T.
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives

Partial (PN)/radical (RN) nephrectomy is the standard treatment for localized renal‐cell carcinoma (RCC). The potential risks of these procedures are concerns for the elderly. We evaluated perioperative outcomes/survival for patients aged ≥ 75 years with localized RCC who underwent PN, RN, or thermal ablation (TA).

Methods

Localized RCC patients undergoing PN/RN/TA (2000–2023) were retrospectively reviewed. Logistic‐regression assessed factors associated with major complications. Kaplan‐Meier estimated survival.

Results

A total of 278 patients (≥ 75 years) with RCC who received intervention (107RN, 101PN, and 70TA) were identified. Median age was 78 years. PN patients were younger than other cohorts (77 vs. 79, p = 0.006). Patients with cancer comorbidities underwent TA than PN/RN (93% vs. 88%/76%, respectively). Median tumor size was 4.0, 3.0, and 2.6 cm in RN, PN, and TA cohorts, respectively. RN patients had more complex masses compared to other cohorts (9 vs. 7, p < 0.001). Postoperative complications were significantly greater among PN patients (p = 0.03), but there was no significant difference in Clavien ≥ 3 complications. Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) was associated with Clavien ≥ 3 complications on multivariable analysis (p = 0.03). RN was performed at a stable rate while PN decreased in favor of TA. There was no significant difference in RCC‐/non‐RCC‐specific survival among treatment modalities.

Conclusions

It is important to make informed decisions about treating RCC in the elderly to reduce morbidity/mortality. PVD could be a determining factor favoring TA for amenable tumors.
Assessment of Artificial Intelligence Chatbot Responses to Common Patient Questions on Bone Sarcoma
Authors: Khabaz Kameel , Newman‐Hung Nicole J. , Kallini Jennifer R. , Kendal Joseph , Christ Alexander B. , Bernthal Nicholas M. , Wessel Lauren E.
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives

The potential impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots on care for patients with bone sarcoma is poorly understood. Elucidating potential risks and benefits would allow surgeons to define appropriate roles for these tools in clinical care.

Methods

Eleven questions on bone sarcoma diagnosis, treatment, and recovery were inputted into three AI chatbots. Answers were assessed on a 5‐point Likert scale for five clinical accuracy metrics: relevance to the question, balance and lack of bias, basis on established data, factual accuracy, and completeness in scope. Responses were quantitatively assessed for empathy and readability. The Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT) was assessed for understandability and actionability.

Results

Chatbots scored highly on relevance (4.24) and balance/lack of bias (4.09) but lower on basing responses on established data (3.77), completeness (3.68), and factual accuracy (3.66). Responses generally scored well on understandability (84.30%), while actionability scores were low for questions on treatment (64.58%) and recovery (60.64%). GPT‐4 exhibited the highest empathy (4.12). Readability scores averaged between 10.28 for diagnosis questions to 11.65 for recovery questions.

Conclusions

While AI chatbots are promising tools, current limitations in factual accuracy and completeness, as well as concerns of inaccessibility to populations with lower health literacy, may significantly limit their clinical utility.
Power Micromachines With Light
Authors: Xu Bingrui , Zhao Yanan , Chen Xixi , Fu Rongxin , Li Hang , Xie Shangran , Liu Haobing , Li Yuchao , Zhang Shuailong , Li Baojun
Published: October 2024

Optical manipulation technology encompasses a suite of micromanipulation techniques that employ light to control and actuate microscopic objects. As a valuable scientific tool, optical manipulation technology is employed by researchers to investigate fundamental biological processes, examine the mechanics of microstructures, and develop innovative technologies with applications in diagnostics, imaging, and micro‐scale manufacturing. The rapid development of optical manipulation technology, combined with advanced microfabrication techniques, has catalyzed the emergence of a burgeoning research domain termed optically‐driven micromachinery. This rapidly expanding field has garnered significant research interest in recent years, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across advanced manufacturing, materials science, biotechnology, and micro‐electromechanical systems. The capability to optically manipulate and control micromachines also opens new avenues for the development of advanced tools, sensors, and devices with enhanced functionalities, enabling the accomplishment of tasks previously considered impossible. This review presents a systematic overview of two important optical micromanipulation technologies, optical tweezers and optoelectronic tweezers, with focus on their applications in the field of optically‐driven micromachinery. A comparative analysis of optical tweezers and optoelectronic tweezers is conducted, accompanied by a discussion on strategies to further enhance their performance, paving the way for the development of more advanced and powerful optically‐driven micromachinery in the future.
Unraveling Plasmonic Tilted Fiber Bragg Gratings (TFBG): A Journey From “Anomalous Resonances” to Refined Refractometry
Authors: Fasseaux Hadrien , Caucheteur Christophe , Loyez Médéric
Published: October 2024

Plasmonic tilted fiber Bragg gratings (TFBGs) have emerged as versatile tools for refractometric analyses and biochemical sensing. Their applications have significantly blossomed these last years, from proteins and cellular bioassays to operando monitoring in batteries, to cite just a few. They are widely recognized for their cutting‐edge performance and low limits of detection, arising from their dense multimodal spectral nature featuring tens of narrowband cladding mode resonances. Their comb‐like spectrum is so rich that numerous demodulation techniques have been reported, without benchmark of their relative performance while they possess important distinctions. This review highlights developments in detangling techniques from the pioneering works based on single‐peak analysis up to the most recent approaches involving Fourier analysis, the implementation of machine learning, and cascaded spectral decomposition processes. To fairly compare the different techniques of the literature, we implemented each analysis on original experimental refractometric calibrations, revealing the assets of the most updated methods. This paper therefore reviews these demodulation techniques based on the same datasets, obtained under the same conditions. We show and discuss the results obtained from bioassays and pinpoint the importance of advanced analytical methodologies to maximize the reproducibility, reliability and performance of plasmonic‐based TFBGs biosensors.
Global Selection Rules and Giant Enhanced Harmonic Generations in LiNbO3 Nonlinear Meta‐Optics
Authors: Chen Yan , Jiang Mengna , Zhang Fei , Pu Mingbo , Chen Lianwei , Guo Yinghui , Xu Mingfeng , He Qiong , Gao Ping , Ma Xiaoliang , Luo Xiangang
Published: October 2024

Nonlinear optical metasurfaces provide nanoscale‐level control of harmonic waves, making them highly promising platforms for both fundamental research and applications in nonlinear optics. However, the traditional selection rules theory, which has long served as a guiding principle for nonlinear meta‐optics, is local and neglects the significance of meta‐atomic lattice symmetry. In addition, achieving high‐efficiency harmonic generation along with nonlinear optical Pancharatnam‐Berry (PB) phase control remains challenging. To this end, a novel global selection rule jointly determined by the symmetries of both meta‐atom and lattice is proposed. Nonlinear metasurfaces designed based on this theory enable frequency conversions forbidden by previous local selection rules. A more comprehensive relationship between the nonlinear PB phase and the meta‐atomic rotation angle is revealed. Moreover, an efficient nonlinear PB metasurface platform for second harmonic generations is first demonstrated using LiNbO3 thin films with aligned crystal orientations in a hybrid design. The normalized conversion efficiency reaches approximately two orders of magnitude higher than that of existing nonlinear PB metasurfaces working in the near‐infrared band. These findings not only shed light on the underlying mechanisms of nonlinear light‐matter interactions, but also open up exciting possibilities in terahertz, entangled photon pairs, and high harmonic generations.
Recording Reflection Volume Holographic Gratings with Enhanced Performance by Two‐Stage Photopolymers Containing Bifunctional Monomers
Authors: Guo Bin , Wang Mingxuan , Zhang Diqin , Sun Minyuan , Gao Haoqiang , Bi Yong , Zhao Yuxia
Published: October 2024

A holographic optical waveguide (HOW) is an optimal solution for augmented reality (AR) displays, in which reflection volume holographic gratings are core optical elements. In this study, five high‐refractive‐index (≈1.6) bifunctional acrylate monomers (TPBSAs) are designed and synthesized. A series of two‐stage photopolymers are prepared using TPBSAs as writing monomers. Among them, one containing 9 wt.% TPBSA‐3 shows the best holographic recording performance with a sensitivity as high as 26.59 cm mJ−1. Using it as the recording medium, a reflection VHG can be obtained with high spatial frequency (5634 lines per mm), diffraction efficiency (97.14%), refractive index modulation (0.029), and good transparency within 400−800 nm after photobleaching. Furthermore, a HOW capable of achieving virtual and real image fusion is fabricated.
Processing and characterization of waste dolomite dust filled hemp‐epoxy composites
Authors: Maurya S. , Mahapatra S. K. , Satapathy A.
Published: October 2024

The necessity to adapt sustainable development, green chemistry and industrial ecology leads to the creation of newer materials and the utilization of waste. In this context, this work aims at exploring the feasibility of the fabrication of hybrid composites comprised of a polymeric resin reinforced with a natural fiber (hemp) and an industry waste filler (dolomite dust). While the hemp fiber content is kept constant, epoxy‐based hybrid composites are fabricated with different weight percentages of dolomite dust using the conventional hand lay‐up route. The microstructural features of the constituent materials are studied using stereo and scanning electron microscopes which show the shape and size of dolomite particles and the arrangement of fibers. An x‐ray diffraction analysis revealed the presence of hematite, graphite, lime and manganite. The presence of functional groups like hydroxyl, carboxyl and azide is ascertained from the transmittance spectra of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The density and void fractions are increasing with the amount of filler particles in the composite. It is observed that the tensile and flexural strengths of the composites marginally drop with increase in dolomite dust content, but there is a reasonable improvement in their inter‐laminar shear strength, micro‐hardness and impact strength values.
Targeting immunosenescence for improved tumor immunotherapy
Authors: Liu Zaoqu , Zuo Lulu , Zhou Zhaokai , Liu Shutong , Ba Yuhao , Zuo Anning , Ren Yuqing , Zhang Chuhan , Chen Yukang , Ma Hongxuan , Xu Yudi , Luo Peng , Cheng Quan , Xu Hui , Zhang Yuyuan , Weng Siyuan , Han Xinwei
Published: October 2024

Tumor immunotherapy has significantly transformed the field of oncology over the past decade. An optimal tumor immunotherapy would ideally elicit robust innate and adaptive immune responses within tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Unfortunately, immune system experiences functional decline with chronological age, a process termed “immunosenescence,” which contributes to impaired immune responses against pathogens, suboptimal vaccination outcomes, and heightened vulnerability to various diseases, including cancer. In this context, we will elucidate hallmarks and molecular mechanisms underlying immunosenescence, detailing alterations in immunosenescence at molecular, cellular, organ, and disease levels. The role of immunosenescence in tumorigenesis and senescence‐related extracellular matrix (ECM) has also been addressed. Recognizing that immunosenescence is a dynamic process influenced by various factors, we will evaluate treatment strategies targeting hallmarks and molecular mechanisms, as well as methods for immune cell, organ restoration, and present emerging approaches in immunosenescence for tumor immunotherapy. The overarching goal of immunosenescence research is to prevent tumor development, recurrence, and metastasis, ultimately improving patient prognosis. Our review aims to reveal latest advancements and prospective directions in the field of immunosenescence research, offering a theoretical basis for development of practical anti‐immunosenescence and anti‐tumor strategies.
Machine learning‐based radiomics in neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular disease
Authors: Shi Ming‐Ge , Feng Xin‐Meng , Zhi Hao‐Yang , Hou Lei , Feng Dong‐Fu
Published: October 2024

Cognitive impairments, which can be caused by neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular disease, represent a growing global health crisis with far‐reaching implications for individuals, families, healthcare systems, and economies worldwide. Notably, neurodegenerative‐induced cognitive impairment often presents a different pattern and severity compared to cerebrovascular‐induced cognitive impairment. With the development of computational technology, machine learning techniques have developed rapidly, which offers a powerful tool in radiomic analysis, allowing a more comprehensive model that can handle high‐dimensional, multivariate data compared to the traditional approach. Such models allow the prediction of the disease development, as well as accurately classify disease from overlapping symptoms, therefore facilitating clinical decision making. This review will focus on the application of machine learning‐based radiomics on cognitive impairment caused by neurogenerative and cerebrovascular disease. Within the neurodegenerative category, this review primarily focuses on Alzheimer's disease, while also covering other conditions such as Parkinson's disease, Lewy body dementia, and Huntington's disease. In the cerebrovascular category, we concentrate on poststroke cognitive impairment, including ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, with additional attention given to small vessel disease and moyamoya disease. We also review the specific challenges and limitations when applying machine learning radiomics, and provide our suggestion to overcome those limitations towards the end, and discuss what could be done for future clinical use.
The Advance and Spot Selling Strategy Under Quality Information Asymmetry
Authors: Zhao Pengfei , Guo Qiang
Published: October 2024

We study firms' optimal pricing and quality selection in the advance period and the spot period under the information asymmetry. Our study theoretically demonstrates that the advance price as a signal of quality information can affect the separating and pooling equilibrium. Importantly, we find that separating equilibrium is more favorable for high cost‐efficiency if consumers have low prior probability that the firm is high cost‐efficiency. For the firm with low cost‐efficiency, the benefit of the separating equilibrium is the same as information is common sense. But no matter which equilibrium firms choose, they will target all consumers during the spot period.
Changes in the relaxivity of water‐organic solvent miscible systems: Hidden forces beyond metal ions
Authors: Wu Shiman , Wang Chaochao , Xia Junjie , Sun Dijia , Wu Pu‐Yeh , Wu Yue , Yao Zhenwei , Ren Yan , Zhang Qi
Published: October 2024

Background

The relaxivity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents is primarily attributed to metal ions such as gadolinium (Gd) and iron. However, the impact of organic solutes on relaxivity, particularly through alterations in water molecule dynamics, has not been thoroughly investigated. This research was aimed to explore how organic solutes affect the relaxivities of water and Gd‐based contrast agents (GBCAs), potentially revealing new aspects for the development of contrast agents.

Purpose

To investigate the effects of different proportions of water‐soluble organic solvents mixed with pure water and GBCA on T1 and T2 relaxivities.

Methods

Ethanol, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), 1,4‐dioxane, glycerin, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol (PEG) 200, and PEG 400 were mixed with ultrapure water in various ratios (100:0, 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, 50:50, 40:60, 30:70, 20:80, 10:90, 0:100). GBCA was added to these mixtures at a concentration of 0.05 mmol/L. The mixtures underwent T1 and T2 mapping scans using a 3.0 Tesla MRI machine, and the relaxivities R1 (1/T1) and R2 (1/T2) were calculated and compared.

Results

The relaxivity R1 of ethanol, 1,4‐dioxane, and DMSO mixtures with water or GBCA, as well as R2 of DMSO mixtures with GBCA, initially increased and then decreased. Conversely, R1 and R2 increased significantly with higher proportions of diethylene glycol, PEG 200, and glycerin in the mixtures with GBCA. The increase in relaxivity R1 was correlated with greater viscosity. When the proportion of DMSO and diethylene glycol exceeded 20%, minimal variability in R2 was observed as the water content decreased.

Conclusions

Adding organic solvents to water and paramagnetic relaxation reagents could alter T1 and T2 relaxivities, suggesting potential new directions for modifying current contrast agents. Additionally, increasing the viscosity of the contrast agent was found to enhance the relaxivity.
The Experiences and Perceptions of First Contact Practitioners in Primary Care—A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Thompson Jonathan , Macintosh Fi , Beaumont Nicola , Bedford Lauren , Powley Andrew , Bailey Stephen
Published: October 2024

Background

First Contact Practitioners (FCP) have developed as a more advanced physiotherapy clinical role delivering specialist MSK services in GP practice settings. They aim to support GPs in effectively managing increasing patient workloads. As FCPs are now a more established NHS role, it is important to understand how these clinicians perceive their roles to guide and support future service development.

Aims

To review the current evidence regarding the experience of FCPs in the UK. To understand how FCPs perceive their role. To gain an insight into FCP practice which can inform future primary research studies.

Method

A systematic review of FCP primary qualitative research studies. Multiple database and grey literature search with screening following PRISMA guidelines. Qualitative critical appraisal and analysis used tools and frameworks from the Joanna Briggs Institute.

Results

The review reports on 11 included studies which informed the creation of six key concepts impacting upon FCP role experience and perceptions. These were complexity, competency and role development, role understanding, job satisfaction, wellbeing and burnout and service delivery.

Conclusion

FCP clinicians feel broadly positive about their roles, although they report a clear risk of burnout and associated negative impact on their wellbeing. Job satisfaction is linked to adequate training and developing the competencies required to manage patients in an environment of clinical uncertainty. Having access to regular clinical mentorship is a key requirement and FCPs must adapt to the specific demands of work in a GP practice environment.
Fast Nonlinear Model Predictive Control Combining Online Trajectory Optimization and Value Function Regression
Authors: Neve Thomas , Lefebvre Tom , Crevecoeur Guillaume
Published: October 2024

Model predictive control (MPC) is a well‐developed method capable of handling complex control tasks. Implementation of an MPC requires solution of a deterministic finite horizon nonlinear optimal control (OC) problem. OC problems can be solved globally, explicitly expressing the optimal policy (and value function) as a function of the present state, or, locally, using online trajectory optimization, generating a solution that is only valid for the present state. For nonlinear problems however, neither is possible analytically, and the latter, finding a local solution online, is usually preferred. The difficulty with online trajectory optimization is that the solution must be available within a single sampling period. The main parameter affecting the computational demand of MPC is the length of the prediction horizon. The goal in this work is to reduce the length of the prediction horizon of a model predictive controller (MPC) to reduce computation time whilst preserving optimality guarantees. To this end, we propose approximation of the trajectory optimization problem for MPC by learning a finite horizon value function. The approximated value function is inserted into a truncated trajectory optimization problem so that the MPC can be attained with a reduced prediction horizon, ergo reduced computational load. By sampling the value function in a goal oriented way, we show that an effective approximate value function can be found by including both the function value and the gradients of the value function. The result is an accurate approximate MPC which leverages learning methodologies to reduce computational cost while still accounting for constraints.