bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of CuMn Prussian Blue Analog Double‐Shelled Nanoboxes Toward Long‐Life Zn‐ion Batteries
Authors: Zeng Yinxiang , Xu Jianzhong , Wang Yan , Li Sheng , Luan Deyan , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: September 2022

Prussian blue analogs (PBAs) are promising candidates for aqueous Zn‐ion batteries due to their unique open‐framework structures. However, they suffer from limited capacity and severe capacity decay originating from insufficient redox sites and structural instability. Herein, Cu‐substituted Mn‐PBA double‐shelled nanoboxes (CuMn‐PBA DSNBs) prepared by tannic acid etching and cation exchange approaches are demonstrated for efficient Zn ion storage. The unique hollow structures can expose abundant active sites and alleviate the volume change during the cycling test. Moreover, partial Cu substitution and induced Mn vacancies might inhibit the Jahn–Teller distortions of Mn‐N6 octahedra, thus contributing to the prolonged lifespan. As a result, CuMn‐PBA DSNBs exhibit high reversible capacity, decent rate performance and superior cycling stability for 2000 cycles. Furthermore, ex situ characterizations reveal that the charge storage mechanism of CuMn‐PBA DSNBs mainly involves the reversible redox reactions of transition metals and Zn2+ ion insertion/extraction processes.
Reversible Copper Cathode for Nonaqueous Dual‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yu Mingliang , Sui Yiming , Sandstrom Sean K. , Wu Che‐Yu , Yang Hao , Stickle William , Luo Wei , Ji Xiulei
Published: September 2022

Most reported cathodes of nonaqueous dual‐ion batteries (DIBs) host anions via insertion reactions. It is necessary to explore new cathode chemistry to increase the battery energy density. To date, transition metals have yet to be investigated for nonaqueous DIBs, albeit they may offer high capacity in anodic conversion reactions. Here, we report that bulk copper powder exhibits a high reversible capacity of 762 mAh g−1at 3.2 V vs. Li+/Li and relatively stable cycling in common organic electrolytes. The operation of the copper electrode is coupled with the transfer of anion charge carriers. An anion exchange membrane separator is employed to prevent Cu2+from crossing from the catholyte to the anode side. We designed an unbalanced electrolyte with a more concentrated anolyte than a catholyte. This addresses the concentration overpotential ensued during charge and facilitates the high specific capacity and enhanced reversibility. This finding provides a promising direction for high‐energy DIBs.
Hybrid Ionogel Electrolytes for Advanced Lithium Secondary Batteries: Developments and Challenges
Authors: Hu Yunhuan , Yu Le , Meng Tao , Zhou Sisi , Sui Xin , Hu Xianluo
Published: September 2022

Incidents in the use of lithium‐ion batteries are usually caused by the malfunction of flammable organic liquid electrolytes with poor thermal stability. Therefore, the development of noncombustible electrolytes is regarded as one of the most effective means to prevent the safety hazards of lithium‐ion batteries. Ionic liquids have attracted much interest recently, mainly due to their high ionic conductivity, low volatility, and incombustibility. The application of ionic liquids to the preparation of quasi‐solid‐state gel electrolytes combines the advantages of ionic liquids and avoids the risks of organic liquid electrolytes. Therefore, the solid‐state ionogels have been considered as a promising alternative electrolyte system, especially for the much‐desired energy storage devices with higher energy density and flexibility. This review focuses on the recent progress of ionogel electrolytes for lithium‐ion batteries. The preparation strategies for ionogel electrolytes based on different frameworks, namely inorganic matrix, organic matrix, and organic‐inorganic hybrid matrix, are discussed. Subsequently, efforts to improve the properties of the ionogel electrolytes, including the ionic conductivity, mechanical properties, and lithium‐ion transfer number, are summarized. Besides, the applications of ionogel electrolytes in high‐voltage lithium‐ion batteries and lithium metal batteries as well as the batteries under extreme environments are outlined. Finally, the perspectives on studying and improving the performances of ionogel electrolytes for advanced lithium‐ion batteries are provided.
Synthesis and Applications of TiO2‐based Nanostructures as Photocatalytic Materials
Authors: Li Ning , Zhang Wei , Wang Dongliang , Li Guixian , Zhao Yu
Published: September 2022

TiO2photocatalysis, as an energy‐saving, high‐efficiency and green technology, has a wide range of applications in sewage treatment, cancer treatment, hydrogen production, photocatalytic CO2reduction and photocatalytic sensors. However, the large band width (Eg=3.2 eV) of TiO2material hinders its practical application, which in turn leads to low visible‐light utilization and low quantum yield. Therefore, the preparation of TiO2with high quantum yield and fast response to visible light has become a key topic in current photocatalyst research. This review discusses different photocatalytic applications, current synthetic techniques for the elaboration of nanostructures of several TiO2‐based materials and recent advances in enhancing visible photocatalytic activity.
A Novel Scheme to Improve the Stability of Conventional‐Concentration Electrolyte at High Voltage
Authors: Zhang Jing‐Jing , Wang Jie , Wu Shu‐Min , Wang Peng , Sun Jin‐Long , Zhao Dong‐Ni , Zhang Li‐Juan , Mao Li‐Ping , Niu Lei , Cui Xiao‐Ling
Published: September 2022

It is well‐known that conventional‐concentration electrolytes (CCEs) will undergo serious oxidative decomposition in high‐voltage lithium‐ion batteries, while high‐concentration electrolytes (HCEs) have good oxidation stability. However, HCEs are difficult to scale‐up for industrial applications due to their high viscosity and cost. Herein, based on the anti‐oxidation mechanism of HCE, a novel scheme to improve the stability of CCE at high voltage was proposed. By means of magnetron sputtering LiF on LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 surface and introducing LiPO2F2 additive, a stable cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) film is constructed in CCE. AFM results show that the constructed CEI film in CCE has better mechanical strength and adhesion than that formed by HCE. Moreover, the battery performance with the constructed CEI film in CCE, which affords high stability at high voltage, fast‐charging kinetics, and improved cycling stability (135 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles), is comparable to that with HCE.
From Battery Manufacturing to Smart Grids: Towards a Metaverse for the Energy Sciences**
Authors: Franco Alejandro A. , Loup‐Escande Emilie , Loiseaux Goran , Chotard Jean‐Noël , Zapata‐Dominguez Diana , Ciger Jan , Leclere Aubin , Denisart Lucie , Lelong Romain
Published: September 2022

We present two digital‐based educative games aiming to engage students and the general public with battery sciences. The first one is a multiscale simulator in Mixed Reality of a battery‐powered Electric Vehicle (EV) interacting with an Electrical Grid. One of the players drives the EV in a Virtual Reality (VR) environment where the EV can be recharged, and the other players control the electricity produced, distributed, consumed and stored by interacting with 3D‐printed devices. The second educative game is a digital twin of a lithium ion battery manufacturing pilot line, which can be played from an Internet Browser or by using VR hardware. The key steps of the manufacturing process of cylindrical cells are represented in an interactive way. In this concept, we reviewed the working principles of our games, their implications for motivation, engagement and learning, and why they pave the way towards new ways of collaborative R&D in the battery field.
Systematic review of antitumour efficacy and mechanism of metformin activity in prostate cancer models
Authors: Wang Nan Fang , Jue Toni Rose , Holst Jeff , Gunter Jennifer H.
Published: September 2022

Metformin, the first line pharmacotherapy for type 2 diabetes has demonstrated favourable effects in prostate cancer (PCa) across a range of studies evaluating PCa patient outcomes amongst metformin users. However, a lack of rigorously conducted prospective studies has stalled clinical use in this setting. Despite multiple studies evaluating the mechanisms underpinning antitumour effects of metformin in PCa, to date, no reviews have compared these findings. This systematic review and meta‐analysis consolidates the mechanisms accounting for the antitumour effect of metformin in PCa and evaluates the antitumour efficacy of metformin in preclinical PCa studies. Data were obtained through Medline and EMBASE, extracted by two independent assessors. Risk of bias was assessed using the TOXR tool. Meta‐analysis compared in vivo reductions of PCa tumour volume with metformin. In total, 447 articles were identified with 80 duplicates, and 261 articles excluded based on eligibility criteria. The remaining 106 articles were assessed and 71 excluded, with 35 articles included for systematic review, and eight included for meta‐analysis. The mechanisms of action of metformin regarding tumour growth, viability, migration, invasion, cell metabolism, and activation of signalling cascades are individually discussed. The mechanisms by which metformin inhibits PCa cell growth are multimodal. Metformin regulates expression of multiple proteins/genes to inhibit cellular proliferation, cell cycle progression, and cellular invasion and migration. Published in vivo studies also conclusively demonstrate that metformin inhibits PCa growth. This highlights the potential of metformin to be repurposed as an anticancer agent, warranting further investigation of metformin in the setting of PCa.
The role of PAF in immunopathology: From immediate hypersensitivity reactions to fungal defense
Authors: Sánchez Crespo Mariano , Montero Olimpio , Fernandez Nieves
Published: September 2022

Platelet‐activating factor (PAF, 1‐alkyl‐2‐acetyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphorylcholine) was discovered when the mechanisms involved in the deposition of immune complex in tissues were being scrutinized in the experimental model of rabbit serum sickness. The initial adscription of PAF to IgE‐dependent anaphylaxis was soon extended after disclosing its release from phagocytes stimulated by calcium mobilizing agents, formylated peptides, and phagocytosable particles. This explains why ongoing research in the field turned to the analysis of immune cell types and stimuli involved in PAF production with the purpose of establishing its role in pathology. This was spurred by the identification of the chemical structure of PAF and the enzymic mechanisms involved in its biosynthesis and degradation, which showed commonalities with those involved in eicosanoid production and the Lands' cycle of phospholipid fatty acid remodeling. The reassignment of PAF function in immunopathology is explained by the finding that the most robust mechanisms leading to PAF production are associated with opsonic and non‐opsonic phagocytosis, depending on the cell type. While polymorphonuclear leukocytes exhibit opsonic phagocytosis, monocyte‐derived dendritic cells show a marked preference for non‐opsonic phagocytosis associated with C‐type lectin receptors. This is particularly relevant to the defense against fungal invasion and explains why PAF exerts an autocrine feed‐forwarding mechanism required for the selective expression of some cytokines.
PHF6 mutation is associated with poor outcome in acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Huang Kexiu , Wang Lei , Zheng Yaling , Yue Chunyan , Xu Xuedan , Chen Hongbo , Huang Rui , Li Yuhua
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Mutation of plant homeodomain finger protein 6 (PHF6) occurs in approximately 3% of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) cases. Although it was reported to be associated with poor prognosis, it was not confirmed by other groups. Recently, propensity score matching has provided an effective way to minimise bias by creating two groups that are well balanced with respect to baseline characteristics, providing more convincing results, which has an advantage, especially for rare subtype studies. To provide further evidence on the role of PHF6 mutation, we performed a retrospective propensity score‐matched cohort study to assess the therapeutic responses and survival outcomes of AML patients with PHF6 mutation compared with those without PHF6 mutation after balancing age, sex and risk categories.

Patients and Methods

A total of 22 patients with PHF6 mutation from 801 consecutive newly diagnosed AML cases in our center were identified, and 43 patients with the PHF6 wild‐type genotype were successfully matched at a 1:2 ratio.

Results

AML harbouring PHF6 mutation was associated with a lower complete remission (CR) rate (41% vs. 69%; OR = 3.64, 95% CI 1.10, 12.10; p = 0.035) and shorter median overall survival (OS) (6.0 vs. 39.0 months; p < 0.001) and event‐free survival (EFS) (2.0 vs. 11.0 months; p = 0.013) compared with PHF6 wild‐type patients. Further multivariate analysis supported that PHF6 mutation was an independent risk factor for overall survival in AML (HR = 8.910, 95% CI 3.51, 22.63; p < 0.001). In addition, allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) seemed to ameliorate the poor prognosis of AML with PHF6 mutation in this study.

Conclusion

Our data revealed that PHF6 mutation was associated with a lower chemotherapy response and shorter survival, suggesting that PHF6 mutation is a predictor of poor prognosis in AML.
Imaging and physician visits at cancer diagnosis: COVID ‐19 pandemic impact on cancer care
Authors: Fu Rui , Sutradhar Rinku , Li Qing , Hanna Timothy P. , Chan Kelvin K. W. , Coburn Natalie , Hallet Julie , Eskander Antoine ,   Pandemic–Ontario Collaborative in Cancer Research (POCCR)
Published: September 2022

Background

Little is known about the COVID‐19 pandemic impact on the provision of diagnostic imaging and physician visits at cancer diagnosis.

Methods

We used administrative databases from Ontario, Canada, to identify MRI/CT/ultrasound scans and in‐person/virtual physician visits conducted with cancer patients within 91 days around the date of diagnosis in 2016–2020. In separate segmented regression procedures, we assessed the trends in weekly volume of these services per thousand cancer patients in prepandemic (June 26, 2016 to March 14, 2020), the change in mean volume at the start of the pandemic, and the additional change in weekly volume during the pandemic (March 15, 2020, to September 26, 2020).

Results

Totally, 403,561 cancer patients were included. On March 15, 2020 (COVID‐19 arrived), mean scan volume decreased by 12.3% (95% CI: 6.4%–17.9%) where ultrasound decreased the most by 31.8% (95% CI: 23.9%–37.0%). Afterward, the volume of all scans increased further by 1.6% per week (95% CI: 1.3%–2.0%), where ultrasound increased the fastest by 2.4% (95% CI: 1.8%–2.9%). Mean in‐person visits dropped by 47.4% when COVID‐19 started (95% CI: 41.6%–52.6%) while virtual visits rose by 55.15‐fold (95% CI: 4927%‐6173%). In the pandemic (until September 26, 2020), in‐person visits increased each week by 2.6% (95% CI: 2.0%–3.2%), but no change was observed for virtual visits (p ‐value = 0.10).

Conclusions

Provision of diagnostic imaging and virtual visits at cancer diagnosis has been increasing since the start of COVID‐19 and has exceeded prepandemic utilization levels. Future work should monitor the impact of these shifts on quality of delivered care.
Millennials' changing mobility preferences: A telecommuting case in Istanbul
Authors: Erdoğdu Ayşe İrem , Watson Forrest
Published: September 2022

Daily mobility behaviors, especially in cities with high traffic density, are among the most fundamental drivers of quality of life. Obligatory commuting necessitates individuals sacrificing their time, money, and geographic freedom to ensure their mobility. The personal cost of fatigue, stress, and environmental cost of carbon emissions is likewise substantial. The COVID‐19 pandemic led to a widespread shift to telecommuting. The pandemic has permitted an unprecedented opportunity to study Millennials' attitudes towards commuting and telecommuting. A semi‐structured interview method was used with Millennial (now the largest percentage of the workforce) white‐collar (disproportionately able to do their work remotely) workers living in the megacity of Istanbul to understand how telecommuting has altered consumer commuting habits, values, preferences, and well‐being. The results of this study show that Millennial white‐collar workers in Istanbul see compulsory commuting as a waste of time, a stress factor, and an unwanted task. The shift towards telecommuting lowered the Millennials' tolerance for traffic and long commutes and reveals willingness for immobility at peak hours and appreciation of spatial independence as a lifestyle that increases quality of life. The need for understanding transport decisions has never been more pressing with the growth of megacities and the climate change crisis. This research has important implications for white‐collar employees and their employers, as well as academics and public policy makers, who seek to understand mobility preferences and lifestyles of different generations and the environmental implications in a dynamic environment.
Self‐Assembled Peptide Hydrogel for Accelerated Wound Healing: Impact of N‐Terminal and C‐Terminal Modifications
Authors: Sharma Rohit , Tomar Shruti , Puri Sanjeev , Wangoo Nishima
Published: September 2022

Wound dressings are required to provide a moist environment for wounds, protect against invading infections, expedite tissue regeneration, and improve wound healing efficiency. Developing biomaterials with all aforesaid properties is still a big challenge. However, peptide‐based hydrogels have the potential to overcome these challenges as they are biocompatible, biodegradable as well as have the ability to mimic the extracellular matrix and provide an appropriate moist environment which is important for wound healing. With this in mind, we report the preparation and comparison of three hexapeptide‐based hydrogels, LIVAGD, with the aim to understand the importance of the N‐terminal protecting group as well as the C‐terminal amino acid substitution on its various biological efficacies. Fmoc and acetyl groups were used for N‐terminal peptide protection, while aspartic acid was substituted with lysine at the C‐terminus. The resulting peptide‐based hydrogels were compared. Fmoc peptide‐based hydrogels exhibited efficient anti‐inflammatory action along with improved biocompatibility while lysine provided enhanced antibacterial effect to the hydrogel. Additionally, in vivo efficacy was examined using a mouse model, and Fmoc hydrogels demonstrated an improved wound healing ability with ∼40 % faster healing rate in comparison to the reported acetylated peptide hydrogels.
Tiny Drosophila intestinal stem cells, big power
Authors: Zhai Jingbo , Li Wanyang , Liu Xin , Wang Di , Zhang Dongli , Liu Yanli , Liang Xiuwen , Chen Zeliang
Published: September 2022

The signaling pathways are highly conserved between Drosophila and mammals concerning intestinal development, regeneration, and disease. The powerful genetic tools of Drosophila make it a valuable and convenient alternative to answer basic biological questions that can not be addressed using mammalian models. In this review, we discuss recent advances in how we use fly midgut to answer the following key questions: (1) How intestine stem cell niches are established; (2) which factors control asymmetric division of stem cells; (3) how intestinal cells interact with environmental factors, such as tissue damage, microbiota, and diet; (4) how to screen aging/cancer‐related factors or drugs by fly intestine stem cells.
Improving quality of early care and education to support children's mental health
Authors: Martin Caroline P. , Umaschi Stephanie Shepard
Published: September 2022

The United States is currently experiencing a youth mental health crisis. An already vulnerable, and from some perspectives, fundamentally flawed mental healthcare system has shown to be severely inadequate in supporting the increasing mental health needs of children and teens throughout the COVID‐19 pandemic. Indeed, a 2021 advisory report released by the Office of the Surgeon General named the youth mental health crisis as an “urgent public health issue” and called for a coordinated response by the country's child‐serving institutions.
Increase in marijuana use, binge drinking by young adults
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2022

Marijuana use has reached historic highs among young adults ages 19 to 30 years old, with 29% using marijuana in the past 30 days, and 43% using it in the past year; 10.8% used it on a daily or near daily basis (more than 20 days in the past 30 days). The data is based on the Monitoring the Future (MTF) study conducted for the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). The study uses self‐reports; most recent data is from 2021.
Ways to predict nonresponse to antipsychotics
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2022

Youth with first‐episode psychosis who don't respond to aripiprazole or extended‐release quetiapine early should switch to another antipsychotic drug, according to recent research focusing on the use of three different tests to predict outcomes.
Evaluation of safety and efficacy of the S.M.A.R.T.® Flex Vascular Stent System (OPEN study)
Authors: Gray William A. , Cardenas Joseph , Teigen Corey L.
Published: September 2022

Objectives

The OPEN study evaluated the safety and efficacy of the S.M.A.R.T.® Flex Vascular Stent System in patients with femoropopliteal arterial disease.

Background

Long‐term data on endovascular treatments of femoropopliteal arterial disease are required to establish the repair durability.

Methods

The OPEN study was a multicenter, single‐arm, prospective study comparing primary safety and efficacy outcomes to performance goals (PG) developed for bare nitinol stents. Patients with symptoms due to a single, ≤180 mm length, de novo femoropopliteal arterial lesion with >70% stenosis were enrolled and followed for 36 months. Subjects with lesions ≤150 mm served as the initial comparison cohort for the PG (other cohorts were analyzed if the PG was met).

Results

257 subjects with lesions ≤180 mm were enrolled. The mean lesion length was 71 ± 46 mm, and 52.5% had severe claudication. The primary safety endpoint (freedom from all‐cause death, index limb amputation, and target lesion revascularization [TLR] through 30 days) was met in 98.8% (96.5%, 99.6%) of subjects in the comparison cohort, meeting the PG (88.0%). The primary efficacy endpoint (comparison cohort vessel patency at 12 months) was 68.4% (61.1%, 74.8%), where the lower limit of the 95% confidence interval did not meet the 66.0% PG. Freedom from TLR in the per‐protocol cohort at 12‐, 24‐, 36‐month was 84.7%, 74.6%, and 72.8%, respectively. The 24‐month stent fracture rate was 4.3%, with no new fractures identified at 36 months.

Conclusion

The results show promising long‐term safety and effectiveness for the S.M.A.R.T.® Flex Vascular Stent System in patients with femoropopliteal arterial disease.
Insights into the Impact of Activators on the ‘Catalytic’ Graphitization to Design Anode Materials for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Hanhart Vanessa , Frankenstein Lars , Ramirez‐Rico Joaquin , Siozios Vassilios , Winter Martin , Gomez‐Martin Aurora , Placke Tobias
Published: September 2022

In this work, we systematically investigate the ‘catalytic’ graphitization of a biomass precursor (coffee ground) using 10–60 wt. % of the activator iron (III) chloride hexahydrate in a temperature range of 1000 °C – 2400 °C. Special focus is put on the correlation of synthesis conditions, e. g., heat treatment temperature and mass fraction of iron chloride, with the electrochemical performance in carbon||Li metal cells. The structural investigations of the materials reveal a positive impact of an increasing heat treatment temperature and/or mass fraction of inserted activator on the degree of graphitization and the delithiation capacity. However, a saturation point regarding the maximum degree of graphitization at 2000 °C and reversible capacity by the ‘catalytic’ graphitization approach using iron (III) chloride has been found. A maximum degree of graphitization of ≈69 % could be reached by applying 2000 °C and 40 wt. % FeCl3 ⋅ 6H2O, resulting in a reversible capacity of 235 mAh g−1.
Introduction of Ferrocene as a Facilitator for the Construction of Supramolecular Polymers
Authors: Umer Lone Mohammad , Sahu Nihar , Kumar Roy Raj , Adhikari Bimalendu
Published: September 2022

Proper monomer design is the key to enhancing the strength of noncovalent interactions between the molecules toward the efficient formation of supramolecular polymers (SPs). We have designed and synthesized 1,n′‐disubstituted ferrocene‐azobenzene‐long alkyl chains, Fc(CONH‐Azo‐TDP)2, to afford SPs with a high probability. The design exploits the ‘‘molecular ball‐bearing’’ property of the ferrocene core, which allows two azobenzene arms to rotate in the planes of cyclopentadienyl rings, generating the most suitable molecular conformation required for SP formation. This ferrocene monomer formed a supergel consisting of SPs supported by strong intermolecular (H‐bonding and π‐π stacking) interactions and higher enthalpy gain than the reference molecules, where the central ferrocene core was replaced by flexible aliphatic as well as rigid benzene linkers. The molecular conformation involved in SPs, the strength of noncovalent interactions, and the process of supramolecular polymerization were investigated through NMR, UV‐Vis, XRD and TEM studies. The results demonstrate that ferrocene may act as a good modulator for constructing efficient SPs.
Studies on degradation of triphenylmethane dye crystal violet by electro‐flotation device
Authors: Fan Jinjin , Xue Shuwen , Wan Keji , Wang Guoqiang , Miao Zhenyong
Published: September 2022

Electrolysis technology is very effective in removing organic pollutants including dye wastewater and takes into account environmental friendliness. This paper deals with the electrochemical degradation of triphenylmethane dye crystal violet (DCV) from the aqueous solution using 304 stainless steel electrodes. The electrolytic cell device with a flotation column structure was set up and the electrolytic degradation process was studied. It could be found that the DCV removal efficiency and reaction rate constants were fitting the first‐order kinetic model. The process performance was analyzed in terms of degradation efficiency and energy consumption. Almost complete degradation (>98%) of 100 mg/L DCV was achieved after the 40 min reaction under the conditions of 300 mg/L NaCl dosage, nature pH (5–7), and 10 V applied voltage. Finally, the behaviours of degradation were studied. In the process of electrochemical degradation, the synergistic effects of electrode electrolysis, including indirect oxidation of electrolyte, hydroxyl radical, flocculation, and air flotation, removed the dye pollutants from the wastewater. The present study has proved the effectiveness and cleanness of electrochemical treatment for the triphenylmethane dye solution.
Robust control of discrete minimum and non‐minimum phase systems via data‐driven virtual reference feedback tuning and IMC
Authors: Suresh Kumar Chiluka , Ambati Seshagiri Rao , Sonawane Shirish H. , Babu Gara Uday Bhaskar
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we develop a novel robust control approach for discrete minimum and non‐minimum phase systems via a combined data‐driven virtual reference feedback tuning () and internal model control (IMC) scheme. The first step in the conventional method controller design is the selection of the closed‐loop reference model (), and selection is still an open problem. The integration of the scheme and the VRFT method provides the advantage of flexibility in controller design due to the incorporation of the filter. As a result, the proposed design method begins with the selection of and filter. Unlike the standard method, the proposed combined and design approach has the unique feature of taking into account a robustness property of dynamics, namely, maximum sensitivity () as the design specification for the and IMC filter selection. Moreover, the proposed approach includes a robustness specification that resolves the trade‐off between performance and robustness in real‐time controller design. Furthermore, the robustness guarantee with plant uncertainties and controller fragility is elucidated. The proposed approach is validated using numerical simulations and experimental validation through the temperature control process. Compared to conventional controllers, experimental and simulation results show that the proposed controllers have less tracking error, minimize control effort, and improve robustness.
Preparation of ferric oxide powders by ultrasonic‐assisted impinging stream reaction
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , Li Kaiqi , Dong Xin , Feng Ying , Ding Changwei
Published: September 2022

In this paper, Fe3O4 powder was prepared by the chemical precipitation method using impinging stream technology. The influences of feed flow rate, L/D, reactant concentration, ratio of iron ion concentration, reaction temperature, and impact time on the size and distribution of particles were investigated by the orthogonal experiment method. The microstructure and morphology of Fe3O4 powders were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffractometer, and granulometer. The results showed that when ratio of iron ion concentration c(Fe2+):c(Fe3+) = 0.75, reactant concentration c(Fe3+) = 0.4 mol · L−1, feed flow rate Q = 800 L · h−1, L/D = 3, reaction temperature T = 20°C, impact time t = 50 min, the prepared Fe3O4 had an average particle size of 1.815 μm and the most uniform distribution. The influence of ultrasonic enhancement on the mixing process and powder preparation in an impinging stream reactor was investigated. The size and distribution of the powders were significantly affected by ultrasonic enhancement. With the increase in ultrasonic power, the particle size of the powders decreased and the distribution became narrower. The particle size was reduced by 68.78%, and the particle distribution range was narrowed by 84.34% under ultrasound enhancement. This study promised the effective utilization of ultrasonic cavitation in the optimization of experimental equipment and the preparation of ultrafine powder, which provides a basis for process optimization of powder preparation.
Prospective Roles of Scanning Photoelectrochemical Microscopy in Microbial Hybrid Photosynthesis†
Authors: Tian Xiaochun , Bai Rui , Zhao Feng
Published: September 2022

Microbial hybrid photosynthesis has attracted great interests in recent years since it integrates the advantages of natural and artificial photosynthesis for solar‐to‐chemical conversion. Coupling a light source with scanning electrochemical microscopy, scanning photoelectrochemical microscopy (SPECM) shows great potential in investigating the interfacial reactions of microbial hybrid photosynthesis. In this Emerging Topic, the potential roles of SPECM in revealing biotic–abiotic interfacial electron transfer mechanisms and calculating electrode process kinetics are proposed for hybrid photosynthesis, and this will also inspire the applications of SPECM in the fields including biomineralization, photocatalytic‐biodegradation and microbial photoelectrochemical systems.
The Chemerin Receptor CMKLR1 Requires Full‐Length Chemerin for High Affinity in Contrast to GPR1 as Demonstrated by a New Nanoluciferase‐Based Binding Assay
Authors: Czerniak Anne Sophie , Kretschmer Kevin , Weiß Tina , Beck‐Sickinger Annette G.
Published: September 2022

To study the binding mode of the adipokine chemerin as well as the short peptide agonist chemerin‐9 (C9) to its two receptors chemokine‐like receptor 1 (CMKLR1) and G protein‐coupled receptor 1 (GPR1), we generated 5‐carboxytetramethylrhodamine (TAMRA) modified variants of both ligands. In addition, we labeled GPR1 and CMKLR1 with a nanoluciferase at the N‐terminus to perform NanoBRET binding assays. For GPR1, both ligands show high affinity and comparable binding. Significant differences were found for CMKLR1, whereby only full‐length chemerin binds with high affinity in saturation and displacement assays. For TAMRA‐C9 a biphasic binding consisting of two binding states has been found and no displacement studies could be performed. Thus, we conclude that CMKLR1 requires full‐length chemerin for stable binding in contrast to GPR1. This work demonstrates the NanoBRET binding assay as a new tool for binding studies at chemerin receptors and it enables deeper insights into the ligand binding parameters.
Blood Components as Carriers for Small‐Molecule Platinum Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Yao Houzong , Zhu Guangyu
Published: September 2022

The efficacy of platinum drugs is limited by severe side effects, drug resistance, and poor pharmacokinetic properties. Utilizing long‐lasting blood components as drug carriers is a promising strategy to improve the circulation half‐lives and tumor accumulation of platinum drugs. Non‐immunogenic blood cells such as erythrocytes and blood proteins such as albumins, which have long lifespans, are suitable for the delivery of platinum drugs. In this concept, we briefly summarize the strategies of applying blood components as promising carriers to deliver small‐molecule platinum drugs for cancer treatment. Examples of platinum drugs that are encapsulated, non‐covalently attached, and covalently bound to erythrocytes and plasma proteins such as albumin and apoferritin are introduced. The potential methods to increase the stability of platinum‐based thiol–maleimide conjugates involved in these delivery systems are also discussed. This concept may enlighten researchers with more ideas on the future development of novel platinum drugs that have excellent pharmacokinetic properties and antitumor performance in vivo.
Conformer‐selective Photodynamics of TrpH+−H2O
Authors: Molina Franco , Dezalay Jordan , Tabata Jun‐ichi , Soorkia Satchin , Broquier Michel , Hirata Keisuke , Ishiuchi Shun‐Ichi , Fujii Masaaki , Grégoire Gilles
Published: September 2022

The photodynamics of protonated tryptophan and its mono hydrated complex TrpH+−H2O has been revisited. A combination of steady‐state IR and UV cryogenic ion spectroscopies with picosecond pump‐probe photodissociation experiments sheds new lights on the deactivation processes of TrpH+ and conformer‐selected TrpH+−H2O complex, supported by quantum chemistry calculations at the DFT and coupled‐cluster levels for the ground and excited states, respectively. TrpH+ excited at the band origin exhibits a transient of less than 100 ps, assigned to the lifetime of the excited state proton transfer (ESPT) structure. The two experimentally observed conformers of TrpH+−H2O have been assigned. A striking result arises from the conformer‐selective photodynamics of TrpH+−H2O, in which a single water molecule inserted in between the ammonium and the indole ring hinders the barrierless ESPT reaction responsible for the ultra‐fast deactivation process observed in the other conformer and in bare TrpH+.
Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks Derived Co9S8/Nitrogen‐Doped Hollow Porous Carbon Spheres as Efficient Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for Rechargeable Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Liu Ting , Peng Jiayao , Xu Yuting , Huang Jianlin
Published: September 2022

The development of nonprecious metal‐based electrocatalysts with remarkable catalytic activity and long‐cycling lifespan toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and evolution reaction (OER) is especially important for rechargeable zinc–air batteries (ZABs). Herein, monodispersed Co9S8 nanoparticles embedded in nitrogen‐doped hierarchically porous hollow carbon spheres (Co9S8 NPs/NHCS) are synthesized through a template‐assisted strategy followed by a co‐assembly, thermal annealing, and sulfurization process. Benefiting from larger specific surface area, hierarchically porous hollow structure, and carbon nanotubes self‐growth, the obtained Co9S8 NPs/NHCS‐0.5 electrocatalyst exhibits decent performance for ORR (E1/2=0.85 V) and OER (E10=1.55 V). A rechargeable ZAB assembled using the Co9S8 NPs/NHCS‐0.5 as air cathode delivers a maximum power density of 116 mW cm−2, high open circuit voltage of 1.47 V, and good durability (no obvious voltage decay after 1200 cycles (200 hours)). Such a hierarchically porous hollow structure of Co9S8 NPs/NHCS‐0.5 provides a confined space shell and an interconnected hollow core to achieve outstanding bifunctional catalytic activity and cycling stability, which surpass the benchmark Pt/C‐RuO2.
Phosphinine Selenide: Noncovalent Interactions with Organoiodines and Elemental Iodine, and Reactivity towards Potassium Cyanide
Authors: Lin Jinxiong , Coles Nathan T. , Weber Manuela , Müller Christian
Published: September 2022

A co‐crystalline adduct consisting of a phosphinine selenide and an organohalide was obtained by slow evaporation of the solvent from a mixture of 2,6‐bis(trimethylsilyl)phosphinine selenide and 1,4‐diiodotetrafluorobenzene (1,4‐TFDIB). The crystallographic characterization of the product shows π‐π stacking, F⋅⋅⋅H hydrogen bonding between 1,4‐TFDIB and the phosphinine selenide, as well as F⋅⋅⋅F interactions between 1,4‐TFDIB molecules. Moreover, the phosphorus heterocycle could be crystallized with diiodine to form a 1 : 1 adduct. The d(I−I) distance in this compound is 2.8475(3) Å, which is shorter than the corresponding one in triphenylphosphine selenide diiodide, reflecting the weaker net‐donor power of the phosphinine selenide towards diiodine. The phosphinine selenide could also be used as a selenium transfer reagent to generate KSeCN from KCN.
Identification of adapted breeding lines to improve barley hybrids for Spain
Authors: Fernández‐Calleja Miriam , Boutin Christophe , Dyrszka Emmanuelle , Manès Yann , Reif Jochen C. , Zhao Yusheng , Aparicio Nieves , Ciudad Francisco J. , Casas Ana M. , Igartua Ernesto
Published: September 2022

This study explores the potential of Spanish germplasm for the development of hybrids adapted to southern Europe, a new region for hybrid barley (Hordeum vulgare). A set of 140 locally adapted, advanced breeding lines, developed in a Spanish public breeding program, were evaluated for their potential to widen the germplasm available for hybrid barley development. A subset of 24 lines was introduced into three‐way hybrid combinations and tested in a field trial network of four locations and 2 yr. The hybrid performance of the rest of the lines was estimated based on genomic prediction models. No three‐way hybrid exceeded the best check. We succeeded in identifying lines with high general combining ability, which could produce promising two‐way hybrids. Some were among those tested in the field, whereas others resulted from genomic predictions, validating the strategy followed of mining locally adapted breeding lines. Rachis brittleness detected in field trials revealed a low but detrimental effect of the presence of alternative brittle mutations in the hybrid combination. The success of hybrid breeding in southern Europe requires further investigation of the underlying heterotic patterns, and appropriate management of brittle genes through prebreeding, to widen the germplasm accessible for hybrid barley breeding.
High Lithium Salt Content PVDF‐Based Solid‐State Composite Polymer Electrolyte Enhanced by h‐BN Nanosheets
Authors: Zhao Yuanjun , Qin Yanyang , Da Xinyu , Weng Xianjun , Gao Yiyang , Gao Guoxin , Su Yaqiong , Ding Shujiang
Published: September 2022

Due to the unique safety qualities, solid composite polymer electrolyte (SCPE) has achieved considerable attentions to fabricate high‐energy‐density lithium metal batteries, but its overall performance still has to be improved. Herein, a high lithium salt content poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF)‐based SCPE was developed, enhanced by hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) nanosheets, presenting perfect electrochemical performance, fast ion transport, and efficient inhibition of lithium dendrite growth. The optimized SCPE (PVDF‐L70‐B5) could deliver high ionic conductivity (2.98×10−4 S cm−1), ultra‐high Li+ ion transfer number (0.62), wide electrochemical stability window (5.24 V), and strong mechanical strength (3.45 MPa) at room temperature. Density functional theory calculation further confirmed that the presence of h‐BN could promote the dissociation of bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide lithium (LiTFSI) and the rapid transfer of Li+ ions. As a result, the assembled symmetric Li/Li battery and asymmetric Li/LiFePO4 battery using PVDF‐L70‐B5 SCPEs both exhibited high reversible capacity, long‐term cycle stability, and high‐rate performance when cycled at 60 or 30 °C. The designed SCPEs will open up a new route to synthesize solid‐state lithium batteries with high energy density and high safety.
PBRM1 presents a potential prognostic marker and therapeutic target in duodenal papillary carcinoma
Authors: He Xujun , Xu Ji , Niu Nan , Xu Guoxi , Zhu Honglin , Liu Zhengchuang , Mou Yiping , Qian Zhengyuan , Wang Huiju , Hu Junfeng , Ma Tonghui , Ma Jie , Tao Houquan
Published: September 2022

Background

Due to its rarity, duodenal papillary carcinoma (DPC) is seldom studied as a unique disease and no specific molecular features or treatment guidelines are provided.

Methods

Whole‐exome sequencing was performed to gain new insights into the DPC mutation landscape and to identify potential signalling pathways and therapeutic targets. Mechanistically, immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence, RNA‐seq, ATAC‐seq and in vitro cell function experiments were performed to confirm the underlying mechanisms.

Results

We described the mutational landscape of DPC for the first time as a group of rare tumours with a high frequency of dysregulation in the chromatin remodelling pathway, particularly PBRM1‐inactivating mutations that are significantly higher than duodenal adenocarcinomas and ampullary adenocarcinoma (27% vs. 0% vs. 7%, p < .01). In vitro cell experiments showed that downregulation of PBRM1 expression could significantly promote the cancer progression and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition via the PBRM1‐c‐JUN‐VIM axis. The IHC data indicated that PBRM1 deficiency (p = .047) and c‐JUN expression (p < .001) were significantly associated with poor prognosis. Meanwhile, the downregulation of PBRM1 expression in HUTU‐80 cells was sensitive to radiation, which may be due to the suppression of c‐JUN by irradiation.

Conclusions

Our findings define a novel molecular subgroup of PBRM1‐inactivating mutations in DPC. PBRM1 play an important role in DPC progression and may serve as a potential therapeutic target and prognostic indicator.
Development and validation of targeted environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding for early detection of 69 invasive fishes and aquatic invertebrates
Authors: Wu Yueyang , Colborne Scott F. , Charron Matthew R. , Heath Daniel D.
Published: September 2022

Invasive species are of concern due to their impacts on ecosystems and economies, but they pose significant control challenges. Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a powerful tool in the detection of aquatic organisms at low densities due to high detection sensitivity and relative ease of sample collection. Aquatic eDNA analyses have increased worldwide and are generally either applied to few target species (quantitative PCR), or for broad taxonomic applications (metabarcoding). Here, we describe the development and testing of a hybrid approach that utilized high‐sensitivity PCR primer sets and high‐throughput sequencing (HTS), referred to as targeted metabarcoding, to detect 69 fishes and invertebrates. We identified target species based on reports of globally important invasive species and developed two independent PCR primers for each species (CO1 and a second mtDNA region). We assessed sensitivity and eDNA interference for all 138 primers (2 per species and 69 species) using standard end‐point PCR and tested them on 10 eDNA samples spiked with various amounts of one or more of the target species DNA. The sensitivity of the 138 primer sets ranged between 1.5 × 10−5 and 2.64 ng template DNA (mean = 0.069 ng). Primers were also tested for interference effects using plankton eDNA to simulate field conditions. The inclusion of interfering plankton DNA reduced the sensitivity for most primer sets by one or more orders of magnitude (range 0–3). Overall, our targeted metabarcoding resulted in the detection of ~98% of species in the DNA spiked samples, and perhaps more importantly, the HTS read count was positively related to the quantity of spiked DNA (p < 0.002). We envision this technique being particularly useful for the early detection of species at low population densities; however, there are diverse applications of targeted metabarcoding for monitoring aquatic community composition and to quantify ecosystem change and health.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of intravenous iron‐carbohydrate complexes in HFrEF patients with iron deficiency
Authors: Sindone Andrew , Doehner Wolfram , Comin‐Colet Josep
Published: September 2022

Iron deficiency (ID) is a common co‐morbidity in patients with heart failure (HF). The present meta‐analysis evaluates the effect of intravenous (IV) iron‐carbohydrate complex supplementation in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and ID/iron deficiency anaemia (IDA). Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IV iron‐carbohydrate complexes with placebo/standard of care in patients with HFrEF with ID/IDA were identified using Embase (from 1957) and PubMed (from 1989) databases through 25 May 2021. Twelve RCTs including 2381 patients were included in this analysis. The majority (90.8%) of patients receiving IV iron‐carbohydrate therapy were administered ferric carboxymaltose (FCM); 7.5% received iron sucrose and 1.6% received iron isomaltoside. IV iron‐carbohydrate therapy significantly reduced hospitalization for worsening HF [0.53 (0.42–0.65); P < 0.0001] and first hospitalization for worsening HF or death [0.75 (0.59–0.95); P = 0.016], but did not significantly impact all‐cause mortality, compared with control. IV iron‐carbohydrate therapy significantly improved functional and exercise capacity compared with the control. There was no significant difference in outcome between IV iron‐carbohydrate formulations when similar endpoints were measured. No significant difference in adverse events (AE) was observed between the treatment groups. IV iron‐carbohydrate therapy resulted in improvements in a range of clinical outcomes and increased functional and exercise capacity, whereas AEs were not significantly different between IV iron‐carbohydrate and placebo/standard of care arms. These findings align with the European Society of Cardiology's 2021 HF guidelines, which recommend the consideration of FCM in symptomatic patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction < 45% and ID.