bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Photosensitizer‐Amplified Antimicrobial Materials for Broad‐Spectrum Ablation of Resistant Pathogens in Ocular Infections
Authors: Lochenie Charles , Duncan Sheelagh , Zhou Yanzi , Fingerhut Leonie , Kiang Alex , Benson Sam , Jiang Guanyu , Liu Xiaogang , Mills Bethany , Vendrell Marc 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe emergence of multidrug resistant (MDR) pathogens and the scarcity of new potent antibiotics and antifungals are one of the biggest threats to human health. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) combines light and photosensitizers to kill drug‐resistant pathogens; however, there are limited materials that can effectively ablate different classes of infective pathogens. In the present work, a new class of benzodiazole‐paired materials is designed as highly potent PDT agents with broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity upon illumination with nontoxic light. The results mechanistically demonstrate that the energy transfer and electron transfer between nonphotosensitive and photosensitive benzodiazole moieties embedded within pathogen‐binding peptide sequences result in increased singlet oxygen generation and enhanced phototoxicity. Chemical optimization renders PEP3 as a novel PDT agent with remarkable activity against MDR bacteria and fungi as well as pathogens at different stages of development (e.g., biofilms, spores, and fungal hyphae), which also prove effective in an ex vivo porcine model of microbial keratitis. The chemical modularity of this strategy and its general compatibility with peptide‐based targeting agents will accelerate the design of highly photosensitive materials for antimicrobial PDT.
Band Engineering of Perovskite Quantum Dot Solids for High‐Performance Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Jingxuan , Ye Lvhao , Wu Tai , Hua Yong , Zhang Xiaoliang 
Published: May 2024

AbstractCsPbI3 perovskite quantum dot (PQD) shows high potential for next‐generation photovoltaics due to their tunable surface chemistry, good solution‐processability and unique photophysical properties. However, the remained long‐chain ligand attached to the PQD surface significantly impedes the charge carrier transport within the PQD solids, thereby predominantly influencing the charge extraction of PQD solar cells (PQDSCs). Herein, a ligand‐induced energy level modulation is reported for band engineering of PQD solids to improve the charge extraction of PQDSCs. Detailed theoretical calculations and systemic experimental studies are performed to comprehensively understand the photophysical properties of the PQD solids dominated by the surface ligands of PQDs. The results reveal that 4‐nitrobenzenethiol and 4‐methoxybenzenethiol molecules with different dipole moments can firmly anchor to the PQD surface through the thiol group to modulate the energy levels of PQDs, and a gradient band structure within the PQD solid is subsequently realized. Consequently, the band‐engineered PQDSC delivers an efficiency of up to 16.44%, which is one of the highest efficiencies of CsPbI3 PQDSCs. This work provides a feasible avenue for the band engineering of PQD solids by tuning the surface chemistry of PQDs for high‐performing solar cells or other optoelectronic devices.
Protocell Flow Reactors for Enzyme and Whole‐Cell Mediated Biocatalysis
Authors: Ma Huan , Liu Xiayi , Nobbs Angela H. , Mishra Ananya , Patil Avinash J. , Mann Stephen 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe design and construction of continuous flow biochemical reactors comprising immobilized biocatalysts have generated great interest in the efficient synthesis of value‐added chemicals. Living cells use compartmentalization and reaction‐diffusion processes for spatiotemporal regulation of biocatalytic reactions, and implementing these strategies into continuous flow reactors can offer new opportunities in reactor design and application. Herein, the fabrication of protocell‐based continuous flow reactors for enzyme and whole‐cell mediated biocatalysis is demonstrated. Semipermeable membranized coacervate vesicles are employed as model protocells that spontaneously sequester enzymes or accumulate living bacteria to produce embodied microreactors capable of single‐ or multiple‐step catalytic reactions. By packing millions of the enzyme/bacteria‐containing coacervate vesicles in a glass column, a facile, cost‐effective, and modular methodology capable of performing oxidoreductase, peroxidase and lipolytic reactions, enzyme‐mediated L‐DOPA synthesis, and whole‐cell glycolysis under continuous flow conditions, is demonstrated. It is shown that the protocell‐nested enzymes and bacterial cells exhibit enhanced activities and stability under deleterious operating conditions compared with their non‐encapsulated counterparts. These results provide a step toward the engineering of continuous flow reactors based on cell‐like microscale agents and offer opportunities in the development of green and sustainable industrial bioprocessing.
An adventurous journey toward and away from fern apomixis: Insights from genome size and spore abortion patterns
Authors: Ekrt Libor , Férová Alžběta , Koutecký Petr , Vejvodová Kateřina , Hori Kiyotaka , Hornych Ondřej 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPremiseApomixis in ferns is relatively common and obligatory. Sterile hybrids may restore fertility via apomixis at a cost of long‐term genetic stagnation. In this study, we outlined apomixis as a possible temporary phase leading to sexuality and analyzed factors relating to transitioning to and away from apomixis, such as unreduced and reduced spore formation in apomict and apo‐sex hybrid ferns.MethodsWe analyzed the genome size of 15 fern species or hybrids (“taxa”) via flow cytometry. The number of reduced and unreduced gametophytes was established as a proxy for viable spore formation of either type. We also calculated the spore abortion ratio (sign of reduced spores) in several taxa, including the apo‐sex hybrid Dryopteris × critica and its 16 apomictically formed offspring.ResultsFour of 15 sampled taxa yielded offspring variable in genome size. Specifically, each variable taxon formed one viable reduced plant among 12–451 sampled gametophytes per taxon. Thus, haploid spore formation in the studied apomicts was very rare but possible. Spore abortion analyses indicated gradually decreasing abortion (haploid spore formation) over time. In Dryopteris × critica, abortion decreased from 93.8% to mean 89.5% in one generation.ConclusionsOur results support apomixis as a transitionary phase toward sexuality. Newly formed apomicts hybridize with sexual relatives and continue to form haploid spores early on. Thus, they may get the genomic content necessary for regular meiosis and restore sexuality. If the missing relative goes extinct, the lineage gets locked into apomixis as may be the case with the Dryopteris affinis complex.
Counting the days: Exploring the post‐mortem interval factors in sexual homicides
Authors: Chai April Miin Miin , Reale Kylie S. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis study explores the offender, victim, and environmental characteristics that significantly influence the number of days a sexual homicide victim remains undiscovered. Utilizing a sample of 269 cases from the Homicide Investigation Tracking System database an in‐depth analysis was conducted to unveil the factors contributing to the delay in the discovery of victims' bodies. The methodological approach involves applying a negative binomial regression analysis, which allows for the examination of count data, specifically addressing the over‐dispersion and excess zeros in the dependent variable ‐ the number of days until the victim is found. The findings reveal that certain offender characteristics, victim traits, and spatio‐temporal factors play a pivotal role in the time lag experienced in locating the bodies of homicide victims. These findings have crucial implications for investigative efforts in homicide cases, offering valuable insights that can inform and enhance the efficacy and efficiency of future investigative procedures and strategies.
Reinforced nanowrinkle electrospun photothermal membranes via solvent‐induced recrystallization
Authors: Chang Jinlin , Wang Weiling , Li Zhaoxin , Wang Yujiao , Hou Yacong , Cao Zhiyuan , Liang Zhenwei , Ma Yuan , Weng Ding , Song Jun , Yu Yadong , Chen Lei , Wang Jiadao 
Published: May 2024

AbstractWearable photothermal materials can capture light energy in nature and convert it into heat energy, which is critical for flexible outdoor sports. However, the conventional flexible photothermal membranes with low specific surface area restrict the maximum photothermal capability, and loose structure of electrospun membrane limits durability of wearable materials. Here, an ultrathin nanostructure candle soot/multi‐walled carbon nanotubes/poly (L‐lactic acid) (CS/MWCNTs/PLLA) photothermal membrane is first prepared via solvent‐induced recrystallization. The white blood cell membrane‐like nanowrinkles with high specific surface area are achieved for the first time and exhibit optimal light absorption. The solvent‐induced recrystallization also enables the membrane to realize large strength and durability. Meanwhile, the membranes also show two‐sided heterochromatic features and transparency in thick and thin situations, respectively, suggesting outstanding fashionability. The nano‐wrinkled photothermal membranes by novel solvent‐induced recrystallization show high flexibility, fashionability, strength, and photothermal characteristics, which have huge potential for outdoor warmth and winter sportswear.image
Treating eating disorders by professionals with similar experiences: A systematic review
Authors: Bijkerk C. A. (Charlotte) , Nooteboom L. A. (Laura) , de Beer C. B. (Carolijn) , de Vos J. A. (Jan Alexander) , Vermeiren R. R. J. M. (Robert) 
Published: May 2024

AbstractObjectiveAlthough a significant number of professionals who provide eating disorder (ED) treatment have lived experience with an ED in the past, there is no consensus on whether these professionals should use these experiences in treatment. This review aims to evaluate current literature on recovered professionals with an ED past treating ED patients, unravelling advantages and disadvantages in treatment, the impact on professionals and their surroundings, and implications for practice.MethodA systematic literature search was conducted which included 10 articles. We analysed qualitative data through a systematic synthesis. Strength of evidence was calculated for each subtheme.ResultsThree themes and 14 subthemes were divided into categories. The category ‘treatment (patient‐professional interaction)’ was divided into: advantages, disadvantages and other implications for treatment. Additionally, the category ‘professionals themselves’ included subthemes that directly impact or relate to ED professionals: recovery as a non‐linear process, the significant role of self‐care and adverse feelings of professionals. Finally, the category ‘work settings’ included: company culture and training, supervision and professional development.DiscussionRecovered ED professionals are a promising addition to ED treatment due to the enhanced expertise of the professional. However, attention should be paid to the risk of distorted boundaries between patient and professional.
Establishing a new efficiency descriptor for methanol oxidation reaction and its validation with commercially available Pt‐based catalysts
Authors: Deshpande Pooja S. , Radhakrishnan Thulasi , Prasad Bhagavatula L. V. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractDirect methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) have received a lot of attention in recent years as promising technology for generating clean and efficient energy. In DMFC, the anode catalyst is a vital component because it is involved in the oxidation of methanol, which produces electrons that can be used as an energy source. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) is commonly used to test the characteristics of the electrode materials before they are employed in the actual fuel cell. Interestingly in the case of DMFCs CV also is a useful technique to obtain vital information about the performance and expected efficiency of the electrodes. In general, the CV of methanol electrooxidation for Pt‐based catalysts has two peaks, If in the forward scan (anodic scan) and Ib in the backward scan (cathodic scan). The ratio of these two peaks (If/Ib) is the most commonly used criterion for investigating CO poisoning in catalysts. However, there is a great deal of ambiguity surrounding this criterion, owing to the genesis of Ib. Addressing this we present here a new criterion to evaluate the efficiency of the catalyst using the same CV technique. We validate this newly proposed criterion with commercial Pt/C (comm. Pt/C) and other commercially available alloy catalysts.
Collaborative governance in a primary health care partnership in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Dove Georgina , Craig Adam , Usurup Jethro , O’Keeffe Annmaree , Scahill Geoff , Harris‐Roxas Ben , Kelly‐Hanku Angela 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIntroductionCollaboration in primary health care is recommended to achieve global health goals. Public‐private partnerships (PPP) are one means of collaboration. Our study examined collaboration in a case study PPP for primary health care in Western Province, Papua New Guinea (PNG).MethodsInterviews with key informants involved in the PPP were conducted and key programme documents were reviewed. Data were coded and deductively analysed using the collaborative governance model developed by Emerson, Nabatchi and Balogh.ResultsThe key features of the case study PPP that were highlighted by the collaborative governance model were: identification of partners, trust, procedural arrangements, and leadership.DiscussionWe identified four lessons of significance in the practical establishment and implementation of a partnership in a complex and challenging setting such as PNG: the need to (i) prioritise in‐person collaboration and communication, (ii) engage dynamic individuals to lead the partnership, (iii) encourage relationships across all sectors and actors, and (iv) remain flexible and adapt to local cultural and context.ConclusionCollaborative governance offers a practical framework to understand, assess and strengthen collaboration in multi‐stakeholder partnerships in the health sector.
Electron beam response corrections for an ultra‐high‐dose‐rate capable diode dosimeter
Authors: Dai Tianyuan , Sloop Austin M. , Schönfeld Andreas , Flatten Veronika , Kozelka Jakub , Hildreth Jeff , Bill Simon , Sunnerberg Jacob P. , Clark Megan A. , Jarvis Lesley , Pogue Brian W. , Bruza Petr , Gladstone David J. , Zhang Rongxiao 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundUltra‐high‐dose‐rate (UHDR) electron beams have been commonly utilized in FLASH studies and the translation of FLASH Radiotherapy (RT) to the clinic. The EDGE diode detector has potential use for UHDR dosimetry albeit with a beam energy dependency observed.PurposeThe purpose is to present the electron beam response for an EDGE detector in dependence on beam energy, to characterize the EDGE detector's response under UHDR conditions, and to validate correction factors derived from the first detailed Monte Carlo model of the EDGE diode against measurements, particularly under UHDR conditions.MethodsPercentage depth doses (PDDs) for the UHDR Mobetron were measured with both EDGE detectors and films. A detailed Monte Carlo (MC) model of the EDGE detector has been configured according to the blueprint provided by the manufacturer under an NDA agreement. Water/silicon dose ratios of EDGE detector for a series of mono‐energetic electron beams have been calculated. The dependence of the water/silicon dose ratio on depth for a FLASH relevant electron beam was also studied. An analytical approach for the correction of PDD measured with EDGE detectors was established.ResultsWater/silicon dose ratio decreased with decreasing electron beam energy. For the Mobetron 9 MeV UHDR electron beam, the ratio decreased from 1.09 to 1.03 in the build‐up region, maintained in range of 0.98–1.02 at the fall‐off region and raised to a plateau in value of 1.08 at the tail. By applying the corrections, good agreement between the PDDs measured by the EDGE detector and those measured with film was achieved.ConclusionsElectron beam response of an UHDR capable EDGE detector was derived from first principles utilizing a sophisticated MC model. An analytical approach was validated for the PDDs of UHDR electron beams. The results demonstrated the capability of EDGE detector in measuring PDDs of UHDR electron beams.
Preparation of low‐rolling resistance natural rubber composites from pyrolysis carbon black by plasma treatment
Authors: Gong Zheng , Xiao Yao , Li Biao , Huang Yinggang , Diao Pengfei , Wang Chuansheng , Li Wei 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this study, the surface of pyrolysis carbon black (CBp) is modified by integrating the ball milling process with plasma treatment. High‐energy mechanical ball milling enabled more uniform contact and sufficient reaction temperature for the silane coupling agent and CBp. In addition, the impact of plasma activated the ash and surface deposits of CBp, reducing its inertness. Herein, the filler dispersion grade, Payne effect, vulcanization characteristics, and mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties are investigated by considering modified CBp/natural rubber (NR) composites. The ball milling plasma process can reduce the polarity of CBp. Compared with untreated CBp/NR composites, the plasma‐treated SCA‐CBp/NR composites exhibited increased CBp dispersion grades, higher processing safety, better processing fluidity, and improved mechanical properties. The reduced Payne effect ensured more filler‐rubber network structure, resulting in a reduction in rolling resistance.HighlightsThe coupling agent and CBp are treated by low‐temperature plasma and ball milling.The process promotes the formation of the filler‐rubber network.The dispersion grade of composites increased by 26.29%.The tensile strength increased by 5.57%, and the rolling resistance decreased by 19.44%.
Barriers to mental health service utilization among African immigrants in the United Kingdom: A systematic review
Authors: Bassey Archibong , Zaka Rachael 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundAfrican immigrants in the United Kingdom (UK) face unique challenges in accessing mental health services (MHSs), in contrast to their peers born in the UK, contributing to their worsening mental and physical health outcomes. This study aims to uncover barriers to MHS utilization and proffer evidence‐based recommendations toward addressing the mental health needs of African immigrants residing in the UK.MethodsA systematic literature search was conducted across six databases: Medline, PsycINFO, Web of Science, CIHNAL, Scopus, and Embase published up to September 2022. To assess methodological quality of the included studies, the Critical Appraisal Skills Program qualitative checklist and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool Version 2018 were used. Consecutively, a deductive thematic analysis was employed to group related barriers within overarching themes.ResultsThe study selection process yielded eight studies conducted in the UK, encompassing African populations identifying as African/Afro‐Caribbean origin, Somali refugees, and ethnic minorities of Black/British descent. The findings highlight the complex interplay of key barriers such as stigma, residential instability, cultural influences, discrimination, and accessibility issues, among others, that continue to hinder African populations from accessing and utilizing MHSs. These barriers were categorized into predisposing,enabling and need factors (themes), aligning with Anderson's model of health service utilization, reflecting a comprehensive range of challenges affecting this population.ConclusionThis systematic review illuminates the myriad barriers faced by African immigrants in utilizing MHSs in the UK, underlining the urgent need for targeted interventions. The findings advocate for the development of culturally sensitive, affordable, and accessible MHSs and policies that address the personal, sociocultural, and structural barriers identified. Collaboration across key stakeholders is highly recommended for advancing equitable and inclusive MHSs for all.
Status of infection prevention and control programs in 25 facilities of Rwanda: Results from the WHO infection prevention and control assessment framework
Authors: Irakiza Jean Jacques , Mazimpaka Christian , Ndatimana Dieudonne , Kalach John Baptist , Hatangimbabazi Vincent , Kamuhangire Edouard , Mukamunana Alphonsine , Ntakirutimana Olive , Tengera Joseline , Ruhumuriza Olivier , Manishimwe Onesime , Mwali Assumpta Kayinamura , Rutayisire Erigene 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundInfection prevention and control (IPC) is important in ensuring patient safety, protecting healthcare workers, and reducing healthcare‐associated costs. The World Health Organization (WHO)‐validated Infection Prevention and Control Assessment Framework (IPCAF) was used to evaluate IPC practices in Rwandan healthcare facilities.MethodologyIn this cross‐sectional study, we assessed 25 health facilities across Rwanda, including district and referral hospitals. Using the IPCAF tool, we assessed eight core components (CCs) of IPC programs. We calculated median scores and interquartile ranges to determine the levels of implementation of IPC practices.FindingsAmong the 25 facilities, all showed some degree of IPCAF implementation, with an overall median IPCAF score of 545.0, reflecting an intermediate level. Three facilities (12%) were at a basic level, 16 (64%) at an intermediate level, and 6 (24%) at an advanced level of IPC practices. The presence of IPC guidelines scored the highest among CCs (median: 87.5). About 96% of facilities did not have a dedicated full‐time IPC staff, 64% of facilities did not offer IPC training to new staff, and 84% did not have protocols for multidrug‐resistant pathogens.ConclusionsThis initial IPCAF assessment in Rwanda reveals critical IPC strengths and gaps. These findings highlight the necessity for targeted interventions, such as appointing dedicated IPC staff, strengthening IPC committees, and enhancing IPC training and resources.
Tumor infiltrating B lymphocytes (TIBs) associate with poor clinical outcomes, unfavorable therapeutic benefit and immunosuppressive context in metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (mccRCC) patients treated with anti-PD-1 antibody plus Axitinib
Authors: Lin Zhiyuan , Xiao Shuxiu , Qi Yu , Guo Jianming , Lu Lili 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) plus tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has become first-line therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients. This study aims to investigate the effect of tumor infiltrating B lymphocytes (TIBs) on the combination therapy.

Methods
The retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical records of 115 metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (mccRCC) patients treated with anti-PD-1 antibody plus Axitinib between March 2020 and June 2023. Observation target: objective response rate (ORR), and overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and immune profile.

Results
Patients with high TIBs portended lower ORR of the combination therapy (p = 0.033). TIBs was an independent predictor for poorer OS (p = 0.013) and PFS (p = 0.021) in mccRCC patients with combination treatment. TIBs infiltration was associated with more CD4+T (p < 0.001), CD8+T (p < 0.001), M2 macrophages (p = 0.020) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) (p = 0.004). In TIBs high patients, the percentages of PD-1, CTLA-4 and TIM-3 positive rate were significantly increased in CD4+T (p = 0.038, 0.029 and 0.002 respectively) and CD8+T cells (p = 0.006, 0.026 and < 0.001 respectively).

Conclusions
Our study revealed TIBs infiltration predicted adverse outcomes in mccRCC patients treated with anti-PD-1 antibody plus Axitinib. As a corollary, TIBs positively associated with M2 macrophages and Tregs, leading to subsequent multiple immune checkpoints related exhaustion of T cells. Thus, only PD-1 blockade are inadequate to reverse T cells exhaustion effectively in high TIBs mccRCC patients.