bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controlling exciton spontaneous emission of quantum dots by Au nanoparticles
Authors: Li Yuan-He , Zhuo Zhi-Yao , Wang Jian , Huang Jun-Hui , Li Shu-Lun , Ni Hai-Qiao , Niu Zhi-Chuan , Dou Xiu-Ming , Sun Bao-Quan ,   State Key Laboratory of Superlattices and Microstructures, Institute of Semiconductors, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100083, China,   College of Materials Science and Optoelectronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
Published: March 2022

As an ideal single-photon source, quantum dots (QDs) can play a unique role in the field of quantum information. Controlling QD exciton spontaneous emission can be achieved by anti-phase coupling between QD exciton dipole field and Au dipole field after QD film has been transferred onto the Si substrate covered by Au nanoparticles. In experiment, the studied InAs/GaAs QDs are grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) on a (001) semi-insulation substrate. The films containing QDs with different GaAs thickness values are separated from the GaAs substrate by etching away the AlAs sacrificial layer and transferring the QD film to the silicon wafer covered by Au nanoparticles with a diameter of 50 nm. The distance D (thickness of GaAs) from the surface of the Au nanoparticles to the QD layer is 10, 15, 19, 25, and 35 nm, separately. A 640-nm pulsed semiconductor laser with a 40-ps pulse length is used to excite the QD samples for measuring QD exciton photoluminescence and time-resolved photoluminescence spectra at 5 K. It is found that when the distance D is 15–35 nm the spontaneous emission rate of exciton is suppressed. And when D is close to 19 nm, the QD spontaneous emission rate decreases to \begin{document}$ ~{10}^{-3} $\end{document}, which is consistent with the theoretical calculations. The physical mechanism of long-lived exciton luminescence observed in experiment lies in the fact that Au nanoparticles scatter the light field of the exciton radiation in the QD wetting layer, and the phase of the scattered field is opposite to the phase of the exciton radiation field. Therefore, the destructive interference between the exciton radiation field and scattering field of Au nanoparticles results in long-lived exciton emission observed in experiment.
Caesarean Section Scar Ectopic Pregnancy Presenting with Uterine Rupture: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Bhavani PN , Patil Shivanand V
Published: March 2022

Caesarean scar ectopic pregnancy is a rare form of pregnancy implanting on a caesarean scar and is considered a gynaecological emergency associated with scar rupture and increased incidence of maternal morbidity when complicated with haemorrhage. Scar pregnancy incidence being more common as there are increased caesarean deliveries nowadays. Here the authors present a case of 28-year-old female with caesarean section scar ectopic pregnancy with ruptured uterine scar and haemorrhage associated with haemodynamic collapse which has poor prognosis. Imaging plays a crucial role in early detection and helps the clinician in further management to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality.
Clival Chordoma in an Indian Female Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Shukla Akshat Sanjay , Shukla Sanjay Rajendraprasad , Daruwala Feral Ravi
Published: March 2022

Chordomas are rare tumours that originate anywhere along the craniospinal axis and present various diagnostic hurdles. High recurrence rate even after treatment and tendency to involve other regions within the craniospinal axis make this condition more devastating. Hence, early and timely recognition is of utmost importance in order to choose an appropriate therapeutic modality as well as to achieve better recovery and long-term survival. This case report discusses a case of 47-year-old woman who presented with a history of gradually worsening headaches and nasal discharge. The findings obtained from Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) of the brain were indicative of clival chordoma with associated mass-effects and loco-regional spread. To the best of our knowledge, only a few cases of clival chordoma are reported from the Indian subcontinent.
Effect of Kinesio Taping in Patients with Cervical Radiculopathy: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Pajnee Kopal , Kalra Sheetal , Yadav Joginder
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Cervical radiculopathy is the clinical condition when a nerve root in the cervical spine becomes inflamed or damaged due to compression because of various reasons resulting in a change in neurological function. Kinesio taping is a treatment method used by physical therapists to improve symptoms associated with musculoskeletal disorders. It can be stretched to 140% of its original length before being applied to the skin. It subsequently provides a constant pulling (shear) force to the skin, unlike traditional athletic tape. Aim: To study the effect kinesio taping on pain, neck disability and physical function of upper limb in cervical radiculopathy. Materials and Methods: This longitudinal study was carried out at SGT Hospital Gurugram, Hrayana, India, between February 2018 to August 2018. Fifty subjects, aged 18-50 years with positive response for the 4 test item cluster described by Wainner RS et al., were included in the study and were given manual therapy treatment, cervical stabilisation exercises and kinesio taping. There were three sessions per week for a total of four weeks. Neck Disability Index (NDI), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire were the outcome measures. The readings were noted at prelevel (0 week), mid-levels (at 2 weeks weeks) and at post-levels (at 4 weeks weeks). Comparison of different values was done using paired t-test. Level of significance was taken at p-value <0.05. Results: The mean age of patients was 48.1±11.9 years. The NDI scores at 0 weeks, at 2 weeks, at 4 weeks were 46.00±4.96, 30.48±4.56, 14.84±3.94, respectively. The DASH scores at 0 weeks, at 2 weeks, at 4 weeks were 59.52±7.55, 34.49±8.70, 0.74±0.69, respectively. The NPRS scores at 0 weeks, at 2 weeks, at 4 weeks were 8.72±0.7, 5.10±1.07, 0.74±0.69. All the variables showed significant improvement between different intervals. Conclusion: Kinesio taping method along with manual therapy treatment, cervical stabilisation exercises was effective in treating patients with cervical radiculopathy.
A Novel Method of Ultrasound-guided Modified Thoracolumbar Interfascial Plane Block for Perioperative Pain Control in Lumbar Spine Fusion Surgery: Experience Based on Two Cases
Authors: Parthasarathy Srinivasan , Saravanan Balachandar , Ragavan Saranya
Published: March 2022

Thoracolumbar Interfascial Plane Blocks (TLIP) is commonly used for pain management after spine surgeries. It involves blocking the dorsal rami of the thoracolumbar nerves in the fascial plane between the multifidus and longissimus muscles. The clinical efficacy of the conventional TLIP block is well documented in the postoperative pain management for lumbar spinal surgeries. The novel ultrasound-guided modified TLIP block described here is relatively safe and easier to perform by the trainee Anaesthesiologists. Besides, the relevant sonoanatomic landmarks of the novel technique and its perioperative analgesic efficacy in patients undergoing lumbar spine fusion surgery are described here. Further ultrasound- anatomy correlation studies are required to investigate this novel approach TLIP block.
Thoracic Mass Lesions in Children and their Management: A Prospective Interventional Study
Authors: Srinibash SB , Tripathy Prasanta Kumar , Pattnaik Kaumudee , Jena Pradeep Kumar , Mohanty Pramod Kumar , Dash Sushree Swagata
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Thoracic mass lesions in children are heterogeneous group of disorders, out of which developmental malformations such as Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation (CPAM), bronchogenic cysts and Congenital Lobar Emphysema (CLE) are common pathology. Primary pulmonary malignancies like carcinoid tumour and pulmonary blastoma may rarely be encountered. Aim: To analyse the clinical pattern, diagnosis and management of children with thoracic mass lesions. Materials and Methods: This prospective interventional study was conducted from June 2018 to May 2021, on 19 patients diagnosed and operated for thoracic mass lesions. It was carried out in the Department of Paediatric Surgery, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Post Graduate (SVP PG) Institute of Paediatrics, Srirama Chandra Bhanja (SCB) Medical College, Cuttack, Odisha, India. The final diagnosis was only based on histopathological study. The parameters assessed were demographic features, operative findings and pathological diagnosis. Statistical analysis was done using Microsoft Excel Q1 Macros software. Data was presented as mean, median with Confidence Interval (CI) and percentages (%). Results: A total number of 19 cases were operated, out of which 12 were boys and seven were girls. The median age at presentation was three month (range: five days to five years). Right side of thorax was more commonly affected in 14 cases and left side in five cases. CLE was the most common pathology (eight cases) followed by CPAM (six cases). Bronchogenic cysts and lymphangioma were detected in two cases each. Pulmonary blastoma was the only malignant lesion found. There was no mortality in the present study. Conclusion: The patients with thoracic mass lesions usually present before the age of six months and CLE was detected as the most common finding. A conclusive diagnosis can be obtained only from histopathology
Prevalence of Stunting and Thinness among School Going Early and Midadolescents of Idukki District in Rural Kerala: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Abraham Robin Joseph , Rehna T
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Adolescence is a period characterised by dramatic changes both physically and mentally. Under nutrition is a growing concern worldwide especially in developing countries like India. It has both short-term and long term concerns. Aim: To estimate the prevalence of thinness and stunting among school going early and mid-adolescents of Idukki district in rural Kerala, India. Materials and Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional study which was conducted from June to October 2020 on 1005 subjects aged 10-16 years from four schools-two government and two public sector, selected by simple random sampling. Age group 10-13 years were grouped as early adolescents and 14-16 years were grouped as middle adolescents. After obtaining informed consent from the parents and school authorities, anthropometric measurements such as weight and height were recorded by standard technique. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated from height and weight measurements using the formula weight (kg)/ height2 (metre2 ). The values were then plotted on age specific World Health Organisation (WHO) charts for height and BMI. The degree of stunting and thinness was categorised according to the position of the plot. Data was entered into excel sheet and analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 16.0. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test, to test the association between anthropometric data and age group and gender. A p-value <0.05 was taken as significant. Results: 84 (8.4%) adolescents were stunted with equal prevalence in early (n=38, 8.5%) and mid-adolescents (n=46, 8.2%). There was no difference in the prevalence of stunting in males (n=44, 8.9%) and females (n=40, 7.9%). The overall prevalence of thinness among adolescents was 23.7%. with more thinness in early adolescents (27.4%) than midadolescents (20.7%). It was also found that males were thinner than girls especially among middle adolescents. Conclusions: Adolescent undernutrition continues to be an important public health problem in India. Hence, it will be prudent to give high emphasis on nutrition education programmes for adolescents.
Implementing and evaluating a high‐resolution diode array for patient‐specific quality assurance of robotic brain stereotactic radiosurgery/radiotherapy
Authors: Xu Qianyi , Huynh Kiet , Nie Wei , Rose Mark S. , Chawla Ashish K. , Choe Kevin S. , Kanani Samir , Kubicek Gregory J. , Fan Jiajin
Published: March 2022

The purpose of the study was to introduce and evaluate a high‐resolution diode array for patient‐specific quality assurance (PSQA) of CyberKnife brain stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT). Thirty‐three intracranial plans were retrospectively delivered on the SRS MapCHECK using fixed cone, Iris, and multileaf collimator (MLC). The plans were selected to cover a range of sites from large tumor bed, single/multiple small brain metastases (METs) to trigeminal neuralgia. Fiducial tracking using the four fiducials embedded around the detector plane was used as image guidance. Results were analyzed before and after registration based on absolute dose gamma criterion of 1 mm distance‐to‐agreement and 0.5%–3% dose‐difference. Overall, the gamma passing rates (1 mm and 3% criterion) before registration for all the patients were above 90% for all three treatment modalities (96.8 ± 3.5%, the lowest passing rate of 90.4%), and were improved after registration (99.3 ± 1.5%). When tighter criteria (1 mm and 2%) were applied, the gamma passing rates after registration for all the cases dropped to 97.3 ± 3.2%. For trigeminal neuralgia cases, we applied 1 mm and 0.5% criterion and the passing rates dropped from 100 ± 0.0% to 98.5 ± 2.0%. The mean delivery time was 33.4 ± 11.7 min, 24.0 ± 4.9 min, and 17.1 ± 2.6 min for the fixed cone, Iris, and MLC, respectively. With superior gamma passing rates and reasonable quality assurance (QA) time, we believe the SRS MapCHECK could be a good option for routine PSQA for CyberKnife SRS/SRT.
Dual versus mono antiplatelet therapy in mild‐to‐moderate stroke during hospitalization
Authors: Fan Haimei , Wang Yongle , Liu Tingting , Zhang Kaili , Ren Jing , Li Yanan , Li Juan , Wu Xuemei , Li Xinyi , Niu Xiaoyuan
Published: March 2022

Objective

Subsequent vascular events are common after acute ischemic stroke during hospitalization. This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness of combination therapy with clopidogrel and aspirin among mild‐to‐moderate ischemic stroke patients treated within 72 h on the basis of a high‐intensity dose of statins.

Methods

In a retrospective and multicenter cohort study, acute (within 72 h of onset) mild‐to‐moderate stroke patients were divided into aspirin and clopidogrel‐aspirin groups on the basis of a high‐intensity dose of statin therapy. The primary outcome was compound vascular events during hospitalization. Cox's proportional hazards model was used to assess differences, with the study center as a random effect.

Results

Among the 506 patients meeting the eligibility criteria, all subjects received a high‐intensity dose of statins, including 20 mg rosuvastatin or 40 mg atorvastatin while in the hospital. In an unadjusted analysis, compound vascular events occurred in 7.2% of patients in the clopidogrel‐aspirin group compared with 13.7% of those in the aspirin group (p = 0.022). In a Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, clopidogrel‐aspirin was associated with a lower risk of compound vascular events (hazard ratio [95% CI], 0.47 [0.25–0.87]; p = 0.017) and ischemic vascular events (p = 0.008). Moderate and severe hemorrhage occurred in four patients (1.07%) in the clopidogrel‐aspirin group and three patients (2.30%) in the aspirin group (p = 0.626).

Interpretation

In this study based on high‐intensity statin therapy, clopidogrel‐aspirin reduced the risk of compound vascular events and did not increase the risk of hemorrhage during patients' hospitalization after mild‐to‐moderate ischemic stroke within 72 h.
Bridging the Charge Accumulation and High Reaction Order for High‐Rate Oxygen Evolution and Long Stable Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Dai Yawen , Yu Jie , Wang Jian , Shao Zongping , Guan Daqin , Huang Yu‐Cheng , Ni Meng
Published: March 2022

Combining noble metals with nonnoble metals is an attractive strategy to balance the activity and cost of electrocatalysts. However, a guiding principle for selecting suitable nonnoble metals is still lacking. Herein, a thorough mechanistic study on the platform oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalyst of Ir@Co3O4 to deeply understand the synergy between Ir and Co3O4 for the boosted OER has been carried out. It is demonstrated that the pseudocapacitive feature of Co3O4 plays a key role in accumulating sufficient positive charge [Q], while the Ir sites are responsible for achieving a high reaction order (β), synergistically contributing to the high OER activity of Ir@Co3O4 through the rate law equation. Specifically, Ir@Co3O4 displays a low overpotential of 280 mV at 10 mA cm−2 with a small Ir loading of 1.4 wt%. Ir@Co3O4 is further applied to Zn‐air batteries, which enables a low charging potential and thus alleviates the oxidative corrosion of the air electrode, leading to improved cycle stability of 210 h at 20 mA cm−2. This work demonstrates that anchoring active noble metal sites (for high β) on pseudocapacitive supports (for high [Q]) is highly favorable to the OER process, providing a clear guidance for boosting the utilization of noble metals in electrocatalysis.
Tailoring Diffusion Dynamics in Energy Storage Ionic Conductors for High‐Performance, Multi‐Function, Single‐Layer Electrochromic Supercapacitors
Authors: Kim Seon Yeong , Jang Yeon Jae , Kim Yong Min , Lee Jae Kyeong , Moon Hong Chul
Published: March 2022

Electrochromic (EC) energy storage devices represent a cutting‐edge technology visually indicating stored energy status in real time through color change. Herein, extremely simple single‐layer electrochromic supercapacitors (SL‐ECSs) based on energy storage EC ion gels are proposed. The operation of SL‐ECSs follows Fick's law because of the diffusive nature of mass transport of all redox species. Therefore, the diffusion dynamics are tuned by tailoring fundamental parameters, the diffusion coefficient, and concentration gradient, and the availability of energy storage is maximized by reducing residual charges that cannot be extracted during the normal discharge process. In terms of the two critical metrics of ECSs, areal capacitance (Careal) and transmittance contrast between charged and discharged states (ΔT), the performance of SL‐ECSs (Careal ≈ 43.0 mF cm–2 and ΔT ≈ 96.8%) is favorably compared with previously reported ECSs. The capacitance retention remains at >80% even after continuous charge/discharge cyclic operations for 3000 min without specific encapsulation. Moreover, the practical multi‐functionality of the SL‐ECS is successfully demonstrated as a power source and applied force monitoring platform. It is expected that the SL‐ECS will be a simple but versatile component of high‐performance, ultra‐small functional electronics.
Advances in Inkjet‐Printed Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Zouridi Leila , Garagounis Ioannis , Vourros Anastasios , Marnellos George E. , Binas Vassilios
Published: March 2022

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are high temperature galvanic devices able to electrochemically convert chemical energy of fuels to electrical energy at remarkably high efficiencies. However, several challenges, associated with the complexity, scalability, and cost of the current fabrication processes, remain to be resolved for their large‐scale deployment. Additive Manufacturing (AM) methods are proposed to address such fabrication‐related issues, with Inkjet Printing (IJP) being one of the most promising. In this review, the use of IJP is examined as a potential AM method to deposit electrode and electrolyte thin films for SOFCs. The most important aspects of IJP for SOFCs fabrication processes, including ink formulation of active materials, inkjet deposition, printing optimization, and characterization of inkjet‐printed thin films, are described in detail. Additionally, the effect on electrochemical performance of inkjet‐printed SOFCs highlights the overall potential of this fabrication technique. Challenges and opportunities for the future development of the topic are also discussed.
Bile Acid–Microbiome Interaction Promotes Gastric Carcinogenesis
Authors: Wang Shouli , Kuang Junliang , Zhang Hongwei , Chen Wenlian , Zheng Xiaojiao , Wang Jieyi , Huang Fengjie , Ge Kun , Li Mengci , Zhao Mingliang , Rajani Cynthia , Zhu Jinshui , Zhao Aihua , Jia Wei
Published: March 2022

Bile reflux gastritis (BRG) is associated with the development of gastric cancer (GC), but the specific mechanism remains elusive. Here, a comprehensive study is conducted to explore the roles of refluxed bile acids (BAs) and microbiome in gastric carcinogenesis. The results show that conjugated BAs, interleukin 6 (IL‐6), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and the relative abundance of LPS‐producing bacteria are increased significantly in the gastric juice of both BRG and GC patients. A secondary BA, taurodeoxycholic acid (TDCA), is significantly and positively correlated with the LPS‐producing bacteria in the gastric juice of these patients. TDCA promotes the proliferation of normal gastric epithelial cells (GES‐1) through activation of the IL‐6/JAK1/STAT3 pathway. These results are further verified in two mouse models, one by gavage of TDCA, LPS, and LPS‐producing bacteria (Prevotella melaninogenica), respectively, and the other by bile reflux (BR) surgery, mimicking clinical bile refluxing. Moreover, the bile reflux induced gastric precancerous lesions observed in the post BR surgery mice can be prevented by treatment with cryptotanshinone, a plant‐derived STAT3 inhibitor. These results reveal an important underlying mechanism by which bile reflux promotes gastric carcinogenesis and provide an alternative strategy for the prevention of GC associated with BRG.
Oxygen‐Driven Metal–Insulator Transition in SrNbO3 Thin Films Probed by Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Di Pietro Paola , Bigi Chiara , Chaluvadi Sandeep Kumar , Knez Daniel , Rajak Piu , Ciancio Regina , Fujii Jun , Mercuri Francesco , Lupi Stefano , Rossi Giorgio , Borgatti Francesco , Perucchi Andrea , Orgiani Pasquale
Published: March 2022

The occurrence of oxygen‐driven metal–insulator‐transition (MIT) in SrNbO3 (SNO) thin films epitaxially grown on (110)‐oriented DyScO3 has been reported. SNO films are fabricated by the pulsed laser deposition technique at different partial O2 pressure to vary the oxygen content and their structural, optical, and transport properties are probed. SNO unit cell has been found to shrink vertically as the oxygen content increases but keeping the epitaxial matching with the substrate. The results of Fourier‐transform infra‐red spectroscopy show that highly oxygenated SNO samples (i.e., grown at high oxygen pressure) show distinct optical conductivity behavior with respect to oxygen deficient films, hence demonstrating the insulating character of the formers with respect to those fabricated with lower pressure conditions. Tailoring the optical absorption and conductivity of strontium niobate epitaxial films across the MIT will favor novel applications of this material.
Pine‐Branch‐Like SnO2/ZnO Heterostructure with Suppressed Dark Current and Enhanced On/Off Ratio for Visible‐Blind UV Imaging
Authors: Cao Fa , Su Li , Yan Tingting , Li Ziqing , Shtansky Dmitry V. , Fang Xiaosheng
Published: March 2022

In general, wide bandgap semiconductors (Eg > 3.0 eV) are sensitive to visible‐blind ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, a large dark current makes it difficult to implement efficient visible‐blind sensing, which impedes their application in visible‐blind UV image. In this work, pine‐branch‐like photodetectors (PDs) based on SnO2/ZnO heterostructure are successfully fabricated. Compared with the high dark current (1.5 × 10‐8 A) and low on/off ratio (42) of SnO2 PD, the designed SnO2/ZnO/4 (S/Z/4) PD shows a significantly reduced dark current (1.3 × 10‐12 A), ultrahigh on/off ratio (16 405) under 300 nm UV illumination at 1 V bias. In addition, the UV/visible rejection ratio (R310/R400) of S/Z/4 PD is 1193, which is almost 48‐times of that of SnO2 PD (25). This shows great promise for application in visible‐blind image sensors. The enhancement in performance is attributed to the formation of the type‐II energy band structure, the low conductivity of ZnO layer, and the light trapping effect of pine‐branch‐like structure. Moreover, the SnO2/ZnO/4 PD also exhibits fast response speed with a rising time of 0.48 ms and decay time of 2.07 ms, which exceeds most of the metal oxide‐based PDs. The fabrication approach of pine‐branch‐like heterojunction can be extended to other one‐dimensional materials for high‐performance optoelectronic devices.
Polysiloxane‐Based Single‐Ion Conducting Polymer Blend Electrolyte Comprising Small‐Molecule Organic Carbonates for High‐Energy and High‐Power Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Liang Hai‐Peng , Zarrabeitia Maider , Chen Zhen , Jovanovic Sven , Merz Steffen , Granwehr Josef , Passerini Stefano , Bresser Dominic
Published: March 2022

Single‐ion conducting polymer electrolytes are considered particularly attractive for realizing high‐performance solid‐state lithium‐metal batteries. Herein, a polysiloxane‐based single‐ion conductor (PSiO) is investigated. The synthesis is performed via a simple thiol‐ene reaction, yielding flexible and self‐standing polymer electrolyte membranes (PSiOM) when blended with poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVdF‐HFP). When incorporating 57 wt% of organic carbonates, these polymer membranes provide a Li+ conductivity of >0.4 mS cm−1 at 20 °C and a wide electrochemical stability window of more than 4.8 V. This excellent electrochemical stability allows for the highly reversible cycling of symmetric Li||Li cells as well as high‐energy Li||LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2O2 (NMC622) and Li||LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC811) cells for several hundred cycles at relatively high discharge and charge rates. Remarkably, Li||NMC811 cells with high mass loading cathodes provide more than 76% capacity retention at a high current density of 1.44 mA cm−2, thus rendering this polymer electrolyte suitable for high‐performance battery applications.
Stress‐Release Functional Liquid Metal‐MXene Layers toward Dendrite‐Free Zinc Metal Anodes
Authors: Gu Jianan , Tao Yi , Chen Hao , Cao Zhenjiang , Zhang Yongzheng , Du Zhiguo , Cui Yanglansen , Yang Shubin
Published: March 2022

Zinc anodes are promising for zinc‐based batteries owing to the high theoretical capacity (820 mAh g−1), environmental‐friendliness, and good safety, but the uncontrollable dendrites greatly hamper their practical applications. Here, a special nonmodulus liquid GaIn electrode is designed to help understand the failure mechanism of Zn anodes, demonstrating that there is a huge crystalline stress in the plating Zn anode that causes the fast growth of substantial Zn dendrites. To solve this issue, a zinc‐enriched liquid metal (ZnGaIn) anode on flexible MXene layers (ZnGaIn//MXene) is fabricated, enabling efficient release of the stress in the plating Zn anode. Moreover, owing to the presence of zinc‐based liquid metal, the nucleation energy barrier is largely reduced and meanwhile the nucleation overpotential of Zn is reduced to 0 V versus Zn2+/Zn. Thus, the as‐prepared flexible zinc‐based anode delivers a long cycle life and high rate capabilities up to 8.0 mA cm−2. As coupled with a MnO2 cathode, a full cell with ZnGaIn//MXene anode exhibits a stable and long lifespan, greatly benefiting the development of next‐generation zinc‐based batteries.
Effect of ultrasonic waveforms on gas–liquid mass transfer in microreactors
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Dong Zhengya , Liu Zhikai , Chen Guangwen
Published: March 2022

This study aims to investigate the effect of ultrasonic waveforms on the gas–liquid mass transfer process. For a given load power (P), continuous rectangular wave yielded stronger bubble oscillation and higher mass transfer coefficient (kLa) than continuous triangular and sinusoidal wave. For pulsed ultrasound, the kLa decreased monotonically with decreasing duty ratio (D), resulting in weak enhancement at low D (≤33%). For a given average load power (PA), concentrating the P for a shorter period resulted in a higher kLa due to stronger cavitation behavior. For a given PA and D, decreasing the pulse period (T) led to an increase in kLa, which reached a constant high level when the T fell below a critical value. By optimizing the D and T, a kLa equivalent to 92% of that under continuous ultrasound was obtained under pulsed ultrasound at a D of 67%, saving 33% in power consumption.
Identification of the Aβ37/42 peptide ratio in CSF as an improved Aβ biomarker for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Liu Lei , Lauro Bianca M. , He Amy , Lee Hyo , Bhattarai Sanjay , Wolfe Michael S. , Bennett David A. , Karch Celeste M. , Young‐Pearse Tracy ,   Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network (DIAN), Selkoe Dennis J.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Identifying CSF‐based biomarkers for the β‐amyloidosis that initiates Alzheimer's disease (AD) could provide inexpensive and dynamic tests to distinguish AD from normal aging and predict future cognitive decline.

Methods

We developed immunoassays specifically detecting all C‐terminal variants of secreted amyloid β‐protein and identified a novel biomarker, the Aβ 37/42 ratio, that outperforms the canonical Aβ42/40 ratio as a means to evaluate the γ‐secretase activity and brain Aβ accumulation.

Results

We show that Aβ 37/42 can distinguish physiological and pathological status in (1) presenilin‐1 mutant vs wild‐type cultured cells, (2) AD vs control brain tissue, and (3) AD versus cognitively normal (CN) subjects in CSF, where 37/42 (AUC 0.9622) outperformed 42/40 (AUC 0.8651) in distinguishing CN from AD.

Discussion

We conclude that the Aβ 37/42 ratio sensitively detects presenilin/γ‐secretase dysfunction and better distinguishes CN from AD than Aβ42/40 in CSF. Measuring this novel ratio alongside promising phospho‐tau analytes may provide highly discriminatory fluid biomarkers for AD.
Steuerung der Selbstassemblierung von dreidimensionalen Iptycenen auf Au(111) durch Abstimmung der Molekül‐Oberflächen‐Wechselwirkungen
Authors: Grossmann Lukas , Ringel Eva , Rastgoo‐Lahrood Atena , King Benjamin T. , Rosen Johanna , Heckl Wolfgang M. , Opris Dorina , Björk Jonas , Lackinger Markus
Published: March 2022

Die Selbstassemblierung dreidimensionaler Moleküle auf Oberflächen ist bislang kaum untersucht. Ihre Adsorptionsmodi können im Vergleich zu (nahezu) planaren Molekülen, die meist flach auf Oberflächen adsorbieren, eine viel größere Variabilität aufweisen. Dieser zusätzliche Freiheitsgrad kann entscheidende Konsequenzen für die Ausprägung intermolekularer Bindungsmotive und damit für die supramolekulare Strukturbildung haben. Dabei ist es möglich die bestimmenden Molekül‐Oberflächen‐Wechselwirkungen über weite Bereiche einzustellen, was einen neuen, wirkmächtigen Hebel zur Steuerung der Kristallisation in zwei Dimensionen darstellt. Hier untersuchen wir die Selbstassemblierung von Triptycen‐Derivaten mit Anthracen‐Einheiten auf Au(111) mit Hilfe der Raster‐Tunnel‐Mikroskopie, der Röntgen‐Nahkanten‐Absorptions‐Spektroskopie und der Dichte‐Funktional‐Theorie. Der Einfluss von Molekül‐Oberflächen‐Wechselwirkungen wurde experimentell durch den Vergleich von reinen mit Jod‐passivierten Au(111) Oberflächen untersucht. Dabei beobachteten wir eine grundlegende Änderung des Adsorptionsmodus, die zur Selbstassemblierung einer grundlegend verschiedenen Struktur führte.
Self‐Reporting Activated Ester‐Amine Reaction for Enantioselective Multi‐Channel Visual Detection of Chiral Amines
Authors: Wang Sheng , Xie Siyu , Zeng Hua , Du Hongxu , Zhang Jie , Wan Xinhua
Published: March 2022

Chiral recognition is of importance not only in living systems but also in estimating the optical purity of enantiomeric drugs and fabricating advanced materials. Herein we report a novel self‐reporting activated ester‐amine reaction that can provide multi‐channel visual detection of organic amines. It relies on the reaction extent dependent cis‐transoid to cis‐cisoid helical transition of the polyphenylacetylene backbone and the thus triggered fluorescence. Owing to the high selectivity, this visual process can recognize structurally diverse achiral amines and quantitatively check the impurity content. It also shows an outstanding enantioselectivity towards various chiral amines and can be applied to determine enantiomeric composition. The multiple responses in absorption, circular dichroism, photoluminescence, and circularly polarized luminescence make the helical transition of the polymer backbone a potential detection mode for high‐throughput screening of chiral chemicals.
Cooperative Assembly of 2D‐MOF Nanoplatelets into Hierarchical Carpets and Tubular Superstructures for Advanced Air Filtration
Authors: Schwotzer Friedrich , Horak Jacob , Senkovska Irena , Schade Elke , Gorelik Tatiana E. , Wollmann Philipp , Anh Mai Lê , Ruck Michael , Kaiser Ute , Weidinger Inez M. , Kaskel Stefan
Published: March 2022

Clean air is an indispensable prerequisite for human health. The capture of small toxic molecules requires the development of advanced materials for air filtration. Two‐dimensional nanomaterials offer highly accessible surface areas but for real‐world applications their assembly into well‐defined hierarchical mesostructures is essential. DUT‐134(Cu) ([Cu2(dttc)2]n, dttc=dithieno[3,2‐b : 2′,3′‐d]thiophene‐2,6‐dicarboxylate]) is a metal–organic framework forming platelet‐shaped particles, that can be organized into complex structures, such as millimeter large free‐standing layers (carpets) and tubes. The structured material demonstrates enhanced accessibility of open metal sites and significantly enhanced H2S adsorption capacity in gas filtering tests compared with traditional bulk analogues.
Mesoionic Imines (MIIs): Strong Donors and Versatile Ligands for Transition Metals and Main Group Substrates
Authors: Rudolf Richard , Neuman Nicolás I. , Walter Robert R. M. , Ringenberg Mark. R. , Sarkar Biprajit
Published: March 2022

We report the synthesis and the reactivity of 1,2,3‐triazolin‐5‐imine type mesoionic imines (MIIs). The MIIs are accessible by a base‐mediated cycloaddition between a substituted acetonitrile and an aromatic azide, methylation by established routes and subsequent deprotonation. C=O‐stretching frequencies in MII−CO2 and −Rh(CO)2Cl complexes were used to determine the overall donor strength. The MIIs are stronger donors than the N‐heterocyclic imines (NHIs). MIIs are excellent ligands for main group elements and transition metals in which they display substituent‐induced fluorine‐specific interactions and undergo C−H activation. DFT calculations gave insights into the frontier orbitals of the MIIs. The calculations predict a relatively small HOMO–LUMO gap compared to other related ligands. MIIs are potentially able to act as both π‐donor and π‐acceptor ligands. This report highlights the potential of MIIs to display exciting properties with a huge potential for future development.
Organophotocatalytic Regioselective C−H Alkylation of Electron‐Rich Arenes Using Activated and Unactivated Alkenes
Authors: Chen Bi‐Hong , Du Yi‐Dan , Shu Wei
Published: March 2022

Direct alkylation of the C−H bond arenes in a selective manner is a long‐standing challenge. Herein, a metal‐free photocatalytic regioselective C−H alkylation method for electron‐rich arenes with both activated and unactivated alkenes was developed. The reaction tolerates a wide range of aromatic rings with diverse substitution patterns, as well as terminal and internal alkenes, providing a general and straightforward metal‐free method for C−C bond formation from inert C−H bonds. Moreover, alkynes are also compatible to give the C−H vinylation of electron‐rich arenes.
In Vitro Biosynthesis of the [Fe]‐Hydrogenase Cofactor Verifies the Proposed Biosynthetic Precursors
Authors: Schaupp Sebastian , Arriaza‐Gallardo Francisco J. , Pan Hui‐jie , Kahnt Jörg , Angelidou Georgia , Paczia Nicole , Costa Kyle , Hu Xile , Shima Seigo
Published: March 2022

In the FeGP cofactor of [Fe]‐hydrogenase, low‐spin FeII is in complex with two CO ligands and a pyridinol derivative; the latter ligates the iron with a 6‐acylmethyl substituent and the pyridinol nitrogen. A guanylylpyridinol derivative, 6‐carboxymethyl‐3,5‐dimethyl‐4‐guanylyl‐2‐pyridinol (3), is produced by the decomposition of the FeGP cofactor under irradiation with UV‐A/blue light and is also postulated to be a precursor of FeGP cofactor biosynthesis. HcgC and HcgB catalyze consecutive biosynthesis steps leading to 3. Here, we report an in vitro biosynthesis assay of the FeGP cofactor using the cell extract of the ΔhcgBΔhcgC strain of Methanococcus maripaludis, which does not biosynthesize 3. We chemically synthesized pyridinol precursors 1 and 2, and detected the production of the FeGP cofactor from 1, 2 and 3. These results indicated that 1, 2 and 3 are the precursors of the FeGP cofactor, and the carboxy group of 3 is converted to the acyl ligand.
Functionalised Cofactor Mimics for Interactome Discovery and Beyond
Authors: Wilkinson Isabel V. L. , Pfanzelt Martin , Sieber Stephan A.
Published: March 2022

Cofactors are required for almost half of all enzyme reactions, but their functions and binding partners are not fully understood even after decades of research. Functionalised cofactor mimics that bind in place of the unmodified cofactor can provide answers, as well as expand the scope of cofactor activity. Through chemical proteomics approaches such as activity‐based protein profiling, the interactome and localisation of the native cofactor in its physiological environment can be deciphered and previously uncharacterised proteins annotated. Furthermore, cofactors that supply functional groups to substrate biomolecules can be hijacked by mimics to site‐specifically label targets and unravel the complex biology of post‐translational protein modification. The diverse activity of cofactors has inspired the design of mimics for use as inhibitors, antibiotic therapeutics, and chemo‐ and biosensors, and cofactor conjugates have enabled the generation of novel enzymes and artificial DNAzymes.
Tacticity Control of Cyclic Poly(3‐Thiobutyrate) Prepared by Ring‐Opening Polymerization of Racemic β‐Thiobutyrolactone
Authors: Li Hui , Ollivier Jérôme , Guillaume Sophie M. , Carpentier Jean‐François
Published: March 2022

We report here on the ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of racemic β‐thiobutyrolactone (rac‐TBL), as the first chemical synthesis of poly(3‐thiobutyrolactone) (P3TB), the thioester analogue of the ubiquitous poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (P3HB). The ROP reactions proceed very fast (TOF >12 000 h−1 at r.t.) in the presence of various metal‐based catalysts. Remarkably, catalyst systems based on non‐chiral yttrium complexes stabilized by tetradentate amino alkoxy‐ or diamino‐bis(phenolate) ligands {ONXOR1,R2}2− (X=O, N) provide access to cyclic P3TB with either high isoselectivity (Pm up to 0.90) or high syndiotactic bias (Pr up to 0.70). The stereoselectivity can be controlled by manipulation of the substituents on the ligand platform and adequate choice of the reaction solvent and temperature as well. The cyclic polymer topology is evidenced by MALDI‐ToF MS, NMR and TGA. Highly isotactic cyclic P3TB is a semi‐crystalline material as revealed by DSC.
Carbon capture via novel Cu(II)‐DDA metal–organic frameworks‐based hybrid membranes
Authors: Raza Hamid , Yasmeen Farhat , Sarfraz Muhammad , Salman Habib Muhammad , Ba‐Shammakh Mohammad , Munawar Khurram S. , Ahmad Nazir
Published: March 2022

An important contributor to global warming is the incessant escalation in carbon dioxide gas (CO2) levels in the air, mainly attributed to combustion of fossil fuels. A promising strategy to regulate emission of greenhouse gases into open air is the implementation of carbon capture systems at existing and prospective carbon‐releasing infrastructures. Being a distinguished class of mesoporous materials, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have great potential to efficiently alleviate CO2 emissions into the atmosphere. Nanocrystals of a newly developed Cu(II)‐DDA MOF were incorporated into polysulfone (PSF) matrix in varying concentrations to fabricate hybrid membranes to enhance their carbon capture efficiency. The prepared mixed‐matrix membranes (MMMs) demonstrated better filler‐matrix interfacial adhesion, homogenous nanofiller dispersal, semicrystalline domains and thermally resistant structure. Gas adsorption tests conducted on both the Cu(II)‐DDA MOF nanocrystals and hybrid membranes indicated good adsorption capacity for CO2 as compared to N2. Experiments using cast MMMs revealed that doping the polymer matrix with MOF nanofillers increased the CO2 permeability and the CO2/N2 selectivity of the cast MMMs. In comparison to the pure PSF membrane, the CO2 permeability and CO2/N2 permselectivity of the composite membrane doped with 5 wt% Cu(II)‐DDA MOF nanocrystals were nearly doubled.
Tribological behavior of biomedical gradeUHMWPEwith graphite‐based fillers againstEBM‐Ti6Al4V pinunder various lubricating conditions
Authors: Belhamdi Hossem , Kouini Benalia , Grasso Antonio , Scolaro Cristina , Sili Andrea , Visco Annamaria
Published: March 2022

In this work, the wear behavior of the mechanical coupling between the biomedical polymer ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and the titanium–aluminum–vanadium alloy pin (Ti4Al6V) manufactured by electron beam melting (EBM) is investigated. Pure and oxidized graphite fillers is added to the UHMWPE matrix to boost the wear resistance. The tribological test is performed in dry and under the action of various lubricating media (distilled water [DW], simulated synovial fluid [SSF], and natural bovine serum [NBS]) in order to investigate their effects on wearing. The physical–mechanical characterization results show a progressive increase in wear resistance of more than 60% in the nanocomposite (UHMWPE/GO) with the addition of paraffin oil (PO) compared to the UHMWPE and higher under NBS lubricant (more than 80%). The observed wear action is reduced in the order Dry > DW > SSF ≥ NBS, thereby lowering the debris production.
Are springs hotspots of benthic invertebrate diversity? Biodiversity and conservation priority of rheocrene springs in the karst landscape
Authors: Cíbik Jakub , Beracko Pavel , Bulánková Eva , Čiamporová Zaťovičová Zuzana , Gregušová Katarína , Kodada Ján , Krno Iľja , Mišíková Elexová Emília , Navara Tomáš , Rogánska Alexandra , Derka Tomáš
Published: March 2022

Springs are perceived by human society as essential sources of drinking water, but on the other hand they represent peculiar and vulnerable ecosystems. They differ from other watercourses in the relatively high stability of their physicochemical conditions. As a result, springs represent ecosystems with an insular character, usually inhabited by specific aquatic communities.

Although springs are generally considered species‐rich habitats across the world, they have been outside scientific and conservation interest in the karst mountains of the Western Carpathians. This study, therefore, examined the diversity of spring benthic macroinvertebrates and compared it with that of other watercourses of the Western Carpathian riverine landscape.

The results of the study showed that, in contrast to rhithral streams, individual karst springs often had low species richness, and therefore they cannot be considered biodiversity hotspots. However, their metacommunity diversity is characterized by high taxonomic turnover, resulting in high gamma diversity. This means that the individual springs often harbour unique macroinvertebrate communities, so they are worthy of protection.

However, the present level of spring habitat protection is insufficient as even springs located in protected areas are often captured as sources of drinking water and hydromorphologically or otherwise disturbed. A simple method to evaluate the spring conservation priority (CP) was developed to find a better trade‐off between their use and protection. It uses the number of Red List, endemic and crenal taxa, as well as the total species richness at each site. Based on this classification method, 16% of the springs studied reached very high CP, 39% high CP, 33% moderate CP and 12% low CP.

The proposed management recommendations based on findings of conservation priority of the Western Carpathian karst springs can significantly contribute to their more effective protection and the creation of a legislative framework relating to spring habitat protection in general.
Fertility and early embryonic development toxicity and toxicokinetic study of KFP‐H008 in Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: Lu Bingbing , Yue Peng , Shao Qing , Mao Lishun , Qiao Hongqun
Published: March 2022

The novel potassium competitive acid blocker, KFP‐H008, developed to overcome the shortcomings of proton pump inhibitors. In this study, KFP‐H008 was administered by oral gavage at doses of 0 (control), 15, 45, and 150 mg/kg to Sprague–Dawley rats (24 animals per sex per group). Body weight, food consumption, mortality, sexual cycle, mating behavior, pregnancy, sperm motility, and relative organ weights were evaluated. In a concomitant toxicokinetic (TK) study (10 animals per sex per group), plasma TK parameters and tissue distribution of KFP‐H008 were tested. There were obvious effects at the dosage of 150 mg/kg to male rats with decreases of prostate weight and lower weight gain; to female rats with lower weight gain, hair off, and lower corpus luteum count. There were no effects on litter parameters. Time to reach maximum plasma concentrations for KFP‐H008 was between 0.5 and 1.0 hr for the 15 and 45 mg/kg groups, while for the 150 mg/kg group it had a delay to 2 hr. Overall, the NOAEL of KFP‐H008 was considered to be 45 mg/kg in both genders and the TK study shows that exposure (area under the curve) of male rats was about 1,091.0 ± 530.8 μg/Lhr and to female rats was 1,030.5 ± 512.5 μg/Lhr. Administration of KFP‐H008although reaches the reproductive organs, it demonstrated no significant effects on reproductive organs, it did not affect mating, fertility, pregnancy, growth, or morphologic development.
Digital Marine: An online platform for blended learning in a marine experimental biology module, the Schmid Training Course
Authors: Flom Haley , Adamska Maja , Lami Raphaël , Gazave Eve , D'Aniello Salvatore , Schierwater Bernd , Boutet Agnès
Published: March 2022

For over 20 years, the Schmid Training Course (STC) has offered unique opportunities for marine biology students from European universities to learn about marine model organisms. While the topics of the course have continuously changed over the years with the advent of new research techniques and discoveries, the pedagogical approach has remained largely the same – a combination of lectures, lab practicals, and field excursions. Several life science researchers, who have taught in the STC for many years, sought to bring the course's pedagogical approach into the 21st century, and with the support of Erasmus+ Programme of the European Community funding, the Digital Marine project was developed. Digital Marine began in 2018 as an international partnership between the six research centers from which the STC instructors hail, and its main objective was to introduce a flipped, blended approach to learning and teaching with respect to established and emerging marine biological model systems. The Digital Marine platform, which covers 12 marine model organisms, is now publicly available.