bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2D Graphene/MnO Heterostructure with Strongly Stable Interface Enabling High‐Performance Flexible Solid‐State Lithium‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Liu Wenjie , Zhang Xiong , Xu Yanan , Wang Lei , Li Zhao , Li Chen , Wang Kai , Sun Xianzhong , An Yabin , Wu Zhong‐Shuai , Ma Yanwei
Published: May 2022

The delicate structural engineering is widely acknowledged as a powerful tool for boosting the electrochemical performance of conversion‐type anode materials for lithium storage. Here, a general electrostatic self‐assembly strategy is proposed for the in situ synthesis of MnO nano‐cabbages on negatively charged reduced graphene oxide (rGO/MnO). The strong interfacial heterostructure and robust lithium storage mechanism related to fast Li+ diffusion kinetics and high Li‐adsorption ability of rGO/MnO heterostructure are confirmed through operando experimental characterizations and theoretical calculation. Owing to the rapid charge transfer, enriched reaction sites, and stable heterostructure, the as‐synthesized rGO/MnO anode delivers a high capacity (860 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1), superior rate capability (211 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1), and cycle stability. Notably, the as‐assembled flexible pouch cell of activated carbon//rGO/MnO solid‐state lithium‐ion capacitors (LICs) possesses an exceptional energy density of 194 Wh kg−1 and power density of 40.7 kW kg−1, both of which are among the highest flexible solid‐state LICs reported so far. Further, the LICs possess an ultralong life span with ≈77.8% retention after 10 000 cycles and extraordinary safety, demonstrative of great potential for practical applications.
Knittable Composite Fiber Allows Constant and Tremendous Self‐Powering Based on the Transpiration‐Driven Electrokinetic Effect
Authors: Chen Jingyu , Li Yonghui , Zhang Yongzheng , Ye Dongdong , Lei Chuxin , Wu Kai , Fu Qiang
Published: May 2022

The electrokinetic effect allows harvesting renewable energy directly from moisture, sweat, and rainwater, which is one of the promising techniques for self‐powered electronics. However, current fibrous hygroelectric nanogenerators still suffer from either an intermittent energy harvesting mode or a limited electricity supply. Herein, learning from the transpiration process in plants, a conductive and hydrophilic cellulose/carbon nanotubes fiber is reported, in which continuous and efficient water flow can be driven by the macromolecular chain channel and spontaneous evaporation. In combination with the electrokinetic mechanism, just a single self‐powered fiber is found to produce a constant and tremendous open‐circuit voltage of 160.4 mV and a considerable power density up to 0.4 mW cm−3. This record‐high output performance with the feature of continuity and durability is about one order of magnitude higher than that of most conventional fibrous hygroelectric nanogenerators. Eventually, 108 fibers in series or parallel are woven into flexible fabrics, yielding the maximum power supply of 1.2 V with only 10 min charging time, capable of powering an electronic calculator. This work fabricates a knittable and designable self‐powering fiber with excellent aesthetics and comfort for practical application, offering a novel concept and an effective approach toward clean energy usage.
Enabling 100C Fast‐Charging Bulk Bi Anodes for Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Young‐Hoon , An Jae‐Hyun , Kim Sung‐Yeob , Li Xiangmei , Song Eun‐Ji , Park Jae‐Ho , Chung Kyung Yoon , Choi Yong‐Seok , Scanlon David O. , Ahn Hyo‐Jun , Lee Jae‐Chul
Published: May 2022

It is challenging to develop alloying anodes with ultrafast charging and large energy storage using bulk anode materials because of the difficulty of carrier‐ion diffusion and fragmentation of the active electrode material. Herein, a rational strategy is reported to design bulk Bi anodes for Na‐ion batteries that feature ultrafast charging, long cyclability, and large energy storage without using expensive nanomaterials and surface modifications. It is found that bulk Bi particles gradually transform into a porous nanostructure during cycling in a glyme‐based electrolyte, whereas the resultant structure stores Na ions by forming phases with high Na diffusivity. These features allow the anodes to exhibit unprecedented electrochemical properties; the developed Na–Bi half‐cell delivers 379 mA h g−1 (97% of that measured at 1C) at 7.7 A g−1 (20C) during 3500 cycles. It also retained 94% and 93% of the capacity measured at 1C even at extremely fast‐charging rates of 80C and 100C, respectively. The structural origins of the measured properties are verified by experiments and first‐principles calculations. The findings of this study not only broaden understanding of the underlying mechanisms of fast‐charging anodes, but also provide basic guidelines for searching battery anodes that simultaneously exhibit high capacities, fast kinetics, and long cycling stabilities.
A High‐Energy and Safe Lithium Battery Enabled by Solid‐State Redox Chemistry in a Fireproof Gel Electrolyte
Authors: Meng Xiangyu , Liu Yuzhao , Guan Mengtian , Qiu Jieshan , Wang Zhiyu
Published: May 2022

Recent years have witnessed thriving efforts in pursuing high‐energy batteries at an unaffordable cost of safety. Herein, a high‐energy and safe quasi‐solid‐state lithium battery is proposed by solid‐state redox chemistry of polymer‐based molecular Li2S cathode in a fireproof gel electrolyte. This chemistry fully eliminates not only the negative effect of extremely reactive Li metal and oxygen species on cell safety but also the damage of electrode reversibility by soluble redox intermediates. The molecular Li2S cathode exhibits an exceptional lifetime of 2000 cycles, 100% Coulombic efficiency, high capacity of 830 mA h g−1 with ultralow capacity loss of 0.005–0.01% per cycle and superior rate capability up to 10 C. Meanwhile, it shows high stability in the carbonate‐involving electrolyte for maximizing the compatibility with carbonate‐efficient Si anode. The optimized cell chemistry exerts high energy over 750 W h kg−1 for 500 cycles with fast rate response, high‐temperature adaptability, and no self‐discharge. A fire‐retardant composite gel electrolyte is developed to further strengthen the intrinsic safe redox between the Li2S cathode and the Si anode, which secures remarkable safety against extreme abuse of overheating, short circuits, and mechanical damage in air/water or even when on fire.
Printable and Highly Stretchable Viscoelastic Conductors with Kinematically Reconstructed Conductive Pathways
Authors: Wang Tao , Liu Qingchang , Liu Haitao , Xu Baoxing , Xu Hangxun
Published: May 2022

Printable and stretchable conductors based on metallic‐filler‐reinforced polymer composites that can maintain high electrical conductivity at large strains are essential for emerging applications in wearable electronics, soft robotics, and bio‐integrated devices. Regulating microstructures of conductive fillers during mechanical deformations is the key to reconstructing the conductive pathway and retaining high electrical conductivity, which has proven to be challenging. Here, it is reported that Ag flakes can spontaneously reorganize inside a viscoelastic, liquid‐like polymer matrix by cyclic mechanical stretching, resulting in reconstructed microstructures and forming highly efficient and stable conductive pathways. Consequently, the electrical conductivities of the resultant composites can be dramatically enhanced by ≈4–8 orders of magnitude and reach ≈104 S cm−1. The stretch‐induced kinematic movements of Ag flakes inside the polymer matrix, together with the reorganization and stabilization mechanisms, are unraveled and validated by the dissipative particle dynamics simulations. This unique phenomenon enables high‐performance stretchable conductors to be fabricated with significantly reduced conductive fillers. The printable and stretchable composites presented here hold great promise for use in soft and stretchable electronics, as demonstrated in stretchable light‐emitting diode arrays and wearable electronics.
Ge Bidirectional Diffusion to Simultaneously Engineer Back Interface and Bulk Defects in the Absorber for Efficient CZTSSe Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Jinlin , Zhou Jiazheng , Xu Xiao , Meng Fanqi , Xiang Chunxu , Lou Licheng , Yin Kang , Duan Biwen , Wu Huijue , Shi Jiangjian , Luo Yanhong , Li Dongmei , Xin Hao , Meng Qingbo
Published: May 2022

Aiming at a large open‐circuit voltage (VOC) deficit in Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe) solar cells, a new and effective strategy to simultaneously regulate the back interface and restrain bulk defects of CZTSSe absorbers is developed by directly introducing a thin GeO2 layer on Mo substrates. Power conversion efficiency (power‐to‐efficiency) as high as 13.14% with a VOC of 547 mV is achieved for the champion device, which presents a certified efficiency of 12.8% (aperture area: 0.25667 cm2). Further investigation reveals that Ge bidirectional diffusion simultaneously occurs toward the CZTSSe absorber and MoSe2 layer at the back interface while being selenized. That is, some Ge element from the GeO2 diffuses into the CZTSSe absorber layer to afford Ge‐doped absorbers, which can significantly reduce the defect density and band tailing, and facilitate quasi‐Fermi level split by relatively higher hole concentration. Meanwhile, a small amount of Ge element also participates in the formation of MoSe2 at the back interface, thus enhancing the work function of MoSe2 and effectively separating photoinduced carriers. This work highlights the synergistic effect of Ge element toward the bulk absorber and the back interface and also provides an easy‐handling way to achieve high‐performance CZTSSe solar cells.
Activatable Cancer Sono‐Immunotherapy using Semiconducting Polymer Nanobodies
Authors: Zeng Ziling , Zhang Chi , He Shasha , Li Jingchao , Pu Kanyi
Published: May 2022

Despite the great promises of sonodynamic therapy (SDT) in combination cancer therapy, its clinical applications are hindered by the “always‐on” pharmacological activities of therapeutic agents and the lack of efficient sonosensitizers. Herein, the development of semiconducting polymers as efficient sonosensitizers and further development of sono‐immunotherapeutic nanobodies (SPNAb) for activatable cancer sono‐immunotherapy are reported. Conjugation of anti‐CTLA‐4 antibodies onto the polymer nanoparticles through a 1O2‐cleavable linker affords SPNAb with relatively low CTLA‐4 binding affinity. Upon sono‐irradiation, SPNAb generates 1O2 not only to elicit a sonodynamic effect to induce immunogenic cell death, but also to release anti‐CTLA‐4 antibodies and trigger in situ checkpoint blockade. Such a synergistic therapeutic action mediated by SPNAb modulates the tumoricidal function of T‐cell immunity by promoting the proliferation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and depleting immunosuppressive regulatory T cells, resulting in effective tumor regression, metastasis inhibition, durable immunological memory, and prevention of relapse. Therefore, this study represents a proof‐of‐concept sonodynamic strategy using semiconducting polymers for precise spatiotemporal control over immunotherapy.
A Simple Surface Treatment for Mg to Gain Enhanced Resistance to Corrosion and Corrosive Wear by Hammering Al Powder‐Covered Mg Substrate
Authors: He Anqiang , Tang Yunqing , Wu Mingyu , Chen Daolun , Li Dongyang
Published: May 2022

Mg is abundant in the earth crust and very attractive as a base metal of lightweight alloys for the transportation industry due to its high strength‐to‐weight ratio. However, Mg is prone to corrosion, which largely limits its widespread applications. Here, a very simple surface treatment method is demonstrated for enhanced resistance to corrosion and corrosive wear by hammering Al powder‐covered surface of Mg with subsequent recovery treatment. Such treated surface is examined with X‐ray diffraction technique for information on phases, nanocrystallization, thickness, and coverage of the Al layer. Structure of the Al layer and lattice imperfections are analyzed with transmission electron microscopy. Electrochemical behavior, corrosion, and corrosive wear of the treated surface are evaluated. It is shown that the treated surface is nanocrystalline with significantly increased resistance to corrosion and corrosive wear. The effect of recovery heat treatment on microstructure of the Al layer is particularly characterized and demonstrated to be essential for achieving high degrees of nanocrystallization and structure integrity through eliminating lattice defects generated during the hammering process, leading to a desired nanocrystalline structure with high stability and superior properties. Molecular dynamics simulation is also performed to gain an insight into the underlying mechanism.
Hypertransglycosylating Variants of the GH20 β‐N‐Acetylhexosaminidase for the Synthesis of Chitooligomers
Authors: Mészáros Zuzana , Petrásková Lucie , Kulik Natalia , Pelantová Helena , Bojarová Pavla , Křen Vladimír , Slámová Kristýna
Published: May 2022

Fungal β‐N‐acetylhexosaminidases of the CAZy family 20 of glycoside hydrolases are well‐established tools for the enzymatic synthesis of a wide variety of natural and modified oligosaccharides and glycoconjugates. In order to increase their synthetic efficiency, the β‐N‐acetylhexosaminidase from Aspergillus oryzae (AoHex) was employed as a model enzyme for enzyme engineering aiming at shifting the reaction course from hydrolysis toward transglycosylation. Specifically, nine mutant variants of AoHex were designed by molecular modeling based on its crystal structure and molecular dynamics simulations. The selected mutation hotspots included the tyrosine residue at the active site, which stabilizes the transition state of the reaction, and two residues at the aglycone‐binding site, which were replaced by tryptophan residues to increase the hydrophobicity of this subsite. Besides the individual mutants, combined double‐mutant variants were also prepared and characterized. As a result, eight out of the studied new AoHex variants had transglycosidase activity, with V306W/Y445N AoHex being a superior transglycosidase with a transglycosylation‐to‐hydrolysis ratio greater than 110, which is entirely unique among the hypertransglycosylating glycosidase mutants including the GH20 β‐N‐acetylhexosaminidases.

magnified image
Electrophilic Selenocyanogen Cyclization of Alkynes; Synthesis of Benzofurylselenocyanates, Benzothienylselenocyanates and Indolylselenocyanates
Authors: Wang Jia , Lu Xiao‐Xiao , Tan Xin‐Qiang , Yan Yun‐Hui , Zhang Pengbo , Chao Shu‐Jun , Liu Lixia , Shang Xuefang , Chu Zhi‐Li
Published: May 2022

A method to synthesize benzofurylselenocyanates, benzothienylselenocyanates and indolylselenocyanates via electrophilic selenocyanogen cyclization was established. This sequential process was conducted under mild conditions in a short time. This protocol was successfully applied to late‐stage functionalization of bioactive molecules. Notablely, the selenocyanate can be converted into other valuable Se‐containing compounds and showed antitumor activity to human hepatoma cells HepG2.

magnified image
Hierarchical Sulfide‐Rich Modification Layer on SiO/C Anode for Low‐Temperature Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Xu , Zhang Tianyu , Shi Xixi , Ma Yue , Song Dawei , Zhang Hongzhou , Liu Xizheng , Wang Yonggang , Zhang Lianqi
Published: May 2022

The silicon oxide/graphite (SiO/C) composite anode represents one of the promising candidates for next generation Li‐ion batteries over 400 Wh kg−1. However, the rapid capacity decay and potential safety risks at low temperature restrict their widely practical applications. Herein, the fabrication of sulfide‐rich solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer on surface of SiO/C anode to boost the reversible Li‐storage performance at low temperature is reported. Different from the traditional SEI layer, the present modification layer is composed of inorganic–organic hybrid components with three continuous layers as disclosed by time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF‐SIMS). The result shows that ROSO2Li, ROCO2Li, and LiF uniformly distribute over different layers. When coupled with LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode, the capacity retention achieves 73% at −20 °C. The first principle calculations demonstrate that the gradient adsorption of sulfide‐rich surface layer and traditional intermediate layer can promote the desolvation of Li+ at low temperature. Meanwhile, the inner LiF‐rich layer with rapid ionic diffusion capability can inhibit dendrite growth. These results offer new perspective of developing advanced SiO/C anode and low‐temperature Li‐ion batteries.
Early Failure of Lithium–Sulfur Batteries at Practical Conditions: Crosstalk between Sulfur Cathode and Lithium Anode
Authors: Shi Lili , Anderson Cassidy S. , Mishra Lubhani , Qiao Hong , Canfield Nathan , Xu Yaobin , Wang Chengqi , Jang TaeJin , Yu Zhaoxin , Feng Shuo , Le Phung M , Subramanian Venkat R. , Wang Chongmin , Liu Jun , Xiao Jie , Lu Dongping
Published: May 2022

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are one of the most promising next‐generation energy storage technologies due to their high theoretical energy and low cost. However, Li–S cells with practically high energy still suffer from a very limited cycle life with reasons which remain unclear. Here, through cell study under practical conditions, it is proved that an internal short circuit (ISC) is a root cause of early cell failure and is ascribed to the crosstalk between the S cathode and Li anode. The cathode topography affects S reactions through influencing the local resistance and electrolyte distribution, particularly under lean electrolyte conditions. The inhomogeneous reactions of S cathodes are easily mirrored by the Li anodes, resulting in exaggerated localized Li plating/stripping, Li filament formation, and eventually cell ISC. Manipulating cathode topography is proven effective to extend the cell cycle life under practical conditions. The findings of this work shed new light on the electrode design for extending cycle life of high‐energy Li–S cells, which are also applicable for other rechargeable Li or metal batteries.
Charge‐Selective, Narrow‐Gap Indium Arsenide Quantum Dot Layer for Highly Stable and Efficient Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Park Youngsang , Bae Sung Yong , Kim Taewan , Park Seongmin , Oh Jae Taek , Shin Daekwon , Choi Mahnmin , Kim Hyojung , Kim Bora , Lee Doh C. , Song Jung Hoon , Choi Hyosung , Jeong Sohee , Kim Younghoon
Published: May 2022

The past decade has seen a dramatic surge in the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of next‐generation solution‐processed thin‐film solar cells rapidly closing the gap in PCE of commercially‐available photovoltaic (PV) cells. Yet the operational stability of such new PVs leaves a lot to be desired. Specifically, chemical reaction with absorbers via high‐energy photons transmitted through the typically‐adapted metal oxide electron transporting layers (ETLs), and photocatalytic degradation at interfaces are considered detrimental to the device performance. Herein, the authors introduce a device architecture using the narrow‐gap, Indium Arsenide colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) with discrete electronic states as an ETL in high‐efficiency solution‐processed PVs. High‐performing PM6:Y6 organic PVs (OPVs) achieve a PCE of 15.1%. More importantly, as the operating stability of the device is significantly improved, retaining above 80% of the original PCE over 1000 min under continuous illumination, a Newport‐certified PCE of 13.1% is reported for nonencapsulated OPVs measured under ambient air. Based on operando studies as well as optical simulations, it suggested that the InAs CQD ETLs with discrete energy states effectively cut‐off high‐energy photons while selectively collecting electrons from the absorber. The findings of this works enable high‐efficiency solution‐processed PVs with enhanced durability under operating conditions.
High‐Yield Carbon Dots Interlayer for Ultra‐Stable Zinc Batteries
Authors: Zhang Hao , Li Shuo , Xu Laiqiang , Momen Roya , Deng Wengtao , Hu Jiugang , Zou Guoqiang , Hou Hongshuai , Ji Xiaobo
Published: May 2022

The practical implementation of Zn metal anodes with high volumetric capacity is seriously plagued by the dendritic growth and accompanying interfacial parasitic reactions. Herein, high yield carbon dots (CDs) with abundant polar functional groups (CHO and CN), as a functional artificial interface layer, are rationally designed to optimize electrolyte/Zn interfaces with large‐scale viability. Of particular note, the quantum‐sized CDs with strong Zn affinity can effectively ameliorate the electric field distribution and ensure that more Zn2+ is adsorbed onto the whole electrode, which are beneficial for lowering the barrier of Zn2+ nucleation and inducing homogeneous Zn deposition, thus rendering a dendrite‐free Zn anode, as extensively confirmed by in situ optical microscope observation and finite element simulation. Meanwhile, the dense and insoluble coating layer with abundant polar functional groups is conducive to arousing the repulsion effect, which is good for shielding the active water and SO42−, thus eliminating the water‐mediated parasitic reactions and improving Zn2+ reaction kinetics. More importantly, the electrochemically stable CDs layer endows the Zn anode with a prolonged lifespan of 3000 h at 1 mA cm−2. This feasible and efficient fabrication of functional CDs layer opens a new avenue for stable dendrite‐free metal anodes.
Employment and payroll dynamics in support services for agriculture
Authors: Babkin Anton , Dunn Richard A. , Hueth Brent , Segarra Elan
Published: May 2022

An increasing share of agricultural production activities on farms are undertaken by specialist providers. Despite its importance to the farm economy, because of gaps in the federal statistical system, relatively little is known about how this industry has evolved over the past three decades. In this article, we document establishment, employment, payroll, and wage dynamics for businesses that provide support services to crop production. Our analysis reveals that agricultural support service is a uniquely dynamic and rapidly evolving sector of the American economy. Although rates of entry have fallen substantially, large incumbent firms have tended to grow in size. Furthermore, the real annual mean wage to nonagricultural workers employed in the sector has increased by nearly $10,000 since 1992, indicating sizeable growth in labor productivity. Nonetheless, standard measures of economic dynamism, a principal source of productivity growth, have all fallen, which may have implications for innovation and the long‐term health of this industry and agricultural production more generally.
Changing patterns of SNAP take‐up and participation and the role of out‐of‐pocket medical expenses among older adults
Authors: Heflin Colleen , Li Jun , Zuo Dongmei
Published: May 2022

We use longitudinal data from the nationally representative Health and Retirement Study from 2002 to 2016 to document how Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation and estimated take‐up changed over time for older adults and the role that out‐of‐pocket medical expenses has played in these changing patterns. We rely upon the state adoption of Medicaid expansion of the Affordable Care Act as a source of identifying variation and do not find evidence that Medicaid expansion changed estimated SNAP take‐up or participation. These findings suggest that out‐of‐pocket medical expenses are unlikely to be a major driver of SNAP take‐up decisions for the nondisabled population under age 65.
Constructing an S‐Scheme Heterojunction between CdIn2S4 and an In2O3 Catalyst for Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Yuan Chengyu , Zou Xuejun , He Fan , Dong Yuying , Cui Yubo , Ge Hui , Hou Yang
Published: May 2022

Herein, a novel CdIn2S4/In2O3 heterojunction photocatalyst, aiming to enhance photocatalytic performance for pollutant degradation, is fabricated by a self‐assembly process at low temperature. Ternary CdIn2S4 nanoparticles are uniformly deposited on the In2O3 nanoflowers, forming a step‐scheme (S‐scheme) hybrid heterostructure. As a result, the light absorption efficiency and charge separation efficiency of CdIn2S4/In2O3 are greatly improved. Among these fabricated samples are activated by visible light, and the degradation efficiency of gaseous acetone is as great as 92.3% over 10% CdIn2S4/In2O3 within 3 h, which is the highest value observed. Furthermore, the key intermediate compounds are elucidated using in situ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, which strongly validate the hypothesized light degradation mechanism over CdIn2S4/In2O3. Correspondingly, a potential photocatalytic mechanism over CdIn2S4/In2O3 S‐scheme heterojunction is explored and discussed.
Stressful work in primary health care and mental health: The role of gender inequities in Brazil
Authors: Araújo Tânia M. , de Sousa Camila C. , Siegrist Johannes
Published: May 2022

Background

This study aims to analyze the association between occupational stressors, evaluated by the Effort−Reward Imbalance Model (ERI), and the occurrence of common mental disorders (CMD) among healthcare workers (HCW), additionally considering mediation by over‐commitment from work (OW) and mediation of gender effects by work stressors.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study, including a random sample of 3343 HCWs, from six municipalities of Bahia, Brazil. The ERI scale measured the occupational stressors (main exposure), and the Self‐Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ‐20) was used to screen for CMD. Data analysis used Structural Equation Modeling techniques to understand the relationships between gender, occupational stressors, and the occurrence of CMD.

Results

ERI and OW were associated with CMD. OW mediated the negative effect of ERI on the mental health of HCW. Female workers had higher levels of ERI, OW, and CMD prevalence; the total gender effect on CMD prevalence was mediated by ERI and OW.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the association of work psychosocial stressors and CMD among HCW, including partial mediation by OW. Gender inequalities persisted among HCW, with women most exposed to occupational stressors and CMD. ERI and OW partially mediated the effect of gender on CMD.
Development of virtual reality content for learning Japan Prehospital Trauma Evaluation and Care initial assessment procedures
Authors: Kiyozumi Tetsuro , Ishigami Norio , Tatsushima Daisuke , Araki Yoshiyuki , Sekine Yasumasa , Saitoh Daizoh
Published: May 2022

Aim

The Japan Prehospital Trauma Evaluation and Care (JPTEC) is a standardized educational program for prehospital trauma care in Japan. The initial assessment in the JPTEC course comprises a training segment that includes a 30‐min session. Given the limited face‐to‐face training due to the coronavirus disease 2019, virtual reality (VR) content has become an alternative. However, creating VR content typically requires the assistance of expert technicians. We aimed to create VR content for the initial assessment segment of the JPTEC and verify its educational effectiveness.

Methods

We created VR content for learning the initial assessment of the JPTEC using our easy‐to‐use VR content creation system. The participants played the VR content for 15 min. The number of times they “cleared” (i.e., made a correct decision and completed the initial assessment) was recorded every 5 min. Then, a JPTEC‐certified instructor tested their practical skills through face‐to‐face simulation.

Results

The authors had no specialized skills and created the VR content in 2 days. Fourteen students used the material. They cleared the scenario 3 (3–4) times in the first 5 min in 15 min, 5 (4–5) times in the second 5 min, and 5 (5–5) times in the third 5 min (P < 0.05). All participants passed the practical evaluation.

Conclusion

A shorter VR training developed using our easy‐to‐use VR content creation system can replace the 30‐min JPTEC session on the initial assessment. This system allows for the free and easy creation of VR content.
Tuning Electrostatic and Hydrophobic Surfaces of Aromatic Rings to Enhance Membrane Association and Cell Uptake of Peptides
Authors: de Araujo Aline D. , Hoang Huy N. , Lim Junxian , Mak Jeffrey Y. W. , Fairlie David P.
Published: May 2022

Aromatic groups are key mediators of protein–membrane association at cell surfaces, contributing to hydrophobic effects and π‐membrane interactions. Here we show electrostatic and hydrophobic influences of aromatic ring substituents on membrane affinity and cell uptake of helical, cyclic and cell penetrating peptides. Hydrophobicity is important, but subtle changes in electrostatic surface potential, dipoles and polarizability also enhance association with phospholipid membranes and cell uptake. A combination of fluorine and sulfur substituents on an aromatic ring induces microdipoles that enhance cell uptake of 12‐residue peptide inhibitors of p53‐HDM2 interaction and of cell‐penetrating cyclic peptides. These aromatic motifs can be readily inserted into peptide sidechains to enhance their cell uptake.
An Energy‐Dense, Powerful, Robust Bipolar Zinc–Ferrocene Redox‐Flow Battery
Authors: Luo Jian , Hu Bo , Hu Maowei , Wu Wenda , Liu T. Leo
Published: May 2022

Zinc metal represents a low‐cost, high‐capacity anode material to develop energy‐dense aqueous redox‐flow batteries (RFB). However, the energy‐storage applications of traditional inorganic Zn halide flow batteries are primarily plagued by the material challenges of traditional halide cathode electrolytes (e.g., bromine), including corrosion, toxicity, and severe crossover. Herein, we report a bipolar zinc–ferrocene salt compound, zinc 1,1′‐bis(3‐sulfonatopropyl)ferrocene, Zn[Fc(SPr)2] (1.80 M solubility or 48.2 Ah L− charge storage capacity)—a robust, energy‐dense, bipolar redox‐active electrolyte material for RFBs. Zn[Fc(SPr)2]‐based redox‐flow batteries operated at high current densities of up to 200 mA cm−2 and delivered an energy efficiency of up to 81.5 % and a power density of up to 270.5 mW cm−2. A Zn[Fc(SPr)2] flow battery demonstrated an energy density of 20.2 Wh L−1 and displayed nearly 100 % capacity retention for 2000 cycles (1284 h or 53.5 days).
Asymmetric Double Hydroxycarbonylation of Alkynes to Chiral Succinic Acids Enabled by Palladium Relay Catalysis
Authors: Ji Xiaolei , Shen Chaoren , Tian Xinxin , Zhang Hongru , Ren Xinyi , Dong Kaiwu
Published: May 2022

A Pd‐catalyzed asymmetric double hydroxycarbonylation of terminal alkynes was developed by using relay catalysis, providing a highly efficient route to chiral succinic acids (41 examples, 76–94 %, 94–99 %ee). Key to success was the combinatorial use of a Pd precursor with two distinct phosphine ligands in one pot. The synthetic utilities of this protocol were showcased in the facile synthesis of key intermediates for chiral pharmaceuticals.
Programming Receptor Clustering with DNA Probabilistic Circuits for Enhanced Natural Killer Cell Recognition
Authors: Xiao Mingshu , Lai Wei , Yao Xiaowei , Pei Hao , Fan Chunhai , Li Li
Published: May 2022

Developing strategies to enhance the recognition ability of immune cells is important to the success of cell‐based cancer immunotherapy. Herein, we report programming receptor clustering on membrane with DNA probabilistic circuits for enhanced immune cell recognition. By designing the circuit output to activate receptors for binding to adjacent receptors, we can engineer DNA probabilistic circuits for programmable regulation of receptor clustering. The generated receptor clusters show higher binding affinity to target cancer cells and improved membrane‐anchoring stability compared with monomers. We demonstrate that programming receptor clustering could allow to modulate the recognition capability of natural killer cells and control natural killer cell–cancer cell interactions to promote efficient cancer cell killing. This work provides insights for precise control over cellular recognition and opens new opportunities for the development of cell‐based immunotherapy.
Stepping Out of the Blue: From Visible to Near‐IR Triggered Photoswitches
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Wang Wenhui , O'Hagan Michael , Dai Jinghong , Zhang Junji , Tian He
Published: May 2022

Light offers unique opportunities for controlling the activity of materials and biosystems with high spatiotemporal resolution. Molecular photoswitches are chromophores that undergo reversible isomerization between different states upon irradiation with light, allowing a convenient means to control their influence over the system of interest. However, a significant limitation of classical photoswitches is the requirement to initiate the switching in one or both directions using deleterious UV light with poor tissue penetration. Red‐shifted photoswitches are hence in high demand and have attracted keen recent research interest. In this Review, we highlight recent progress towards the development of visible‐ and NIR‐activated photoswitches characterized by distinct photochromic reaction mechanisms. We hope to inspire further endeavors in this field, allowing the full potential of these tools in biotechnology and materials chemistry applications to be realized.
Silver(I) complexes ofN,N′‐diarylformamidine ligands: Synthesis, crystal structures, and in vitro antibacterial studies
Authors: Bongoza Unathi , Zamisa Sizwe J. , Munzeiwa Wisdom A. , Omondi Bernard
Published: May 2022

Nine silver(I)N,N′‐diarylformamidine complexes of type [Ag (Ln)2X] (where X = NO3−, CF3COO−, and CF3SO3−,n = 1–5) were synthesised and characterised by physiochemical and spectroscopic techniques. Further confirmation for the formation of the complexes was provided by single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography. All complexes (but one) adopted linear geometry in which coordination was via twoNatoms of two formamidine ligands with the anion (X) displaced from coordination sphere. In the structure of the exception, the anion is part of the coordination sphere and a T‐shaped geometry was adopted. The antimicrobial activity of the Ag(I) complexes were investigated against two Gram‐positive bacteria, that is,S. aureusATCC 25923 andMethicillin‐resistant S. aureusATCC 700699 (MRSA) and four Gram‐negative bacteria, that is,K. pneumoniaeATCC 31488,S. typhimuriumATCC 14026,P. aeruginosaATCC 27853 andE. coliATCC 25922 and they were evaluated based on ciprofloxacin and silver nitrate standards. The newly synthesised target complexes demonstrated promising antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive bacteria although less than the reference drug ciprofloxacin. The best active silver(I) complex contains a nitrate counter‐ion.
Graphene oxide/thermoplastic polyurethane wrinkled foams with enhanced compression performance fabricated by dynamic supercritical CO2 foaming
Authors: Zhu Xiaoshuai , Li Xijue , Mi Hao‐Yang , Jing Xin , Dong Binbin , He Ping , Liu Chuntai , Shen Changyu
Published: May 2022

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) foams are commonly used buffering materials due to their lightweight, high elasticity, and excellent energy absorption properties. Improving their compressive property without increase foam density is a challenge for TPU foams. Herein, graphene oxide (GO)/TPU composite foams containing micro‐sized wrinkles on the cell surface were fabricated by a novel dynamic supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) foaming method. The addition of GO created hydrogen bonding and physical crosslinking sites with the TPU molecules, which acted as nucleation agents to improve the cell density of the GO/TPU foams. With the increase of GO content, the mechanical properties of GO/TPU foams were significantly enhanced, and the wrinkled foams prepared via dynamic scCO2 foaming displayed superior compressive modulus, strength, energy absorption, and recoverability compared with the counterpart foams without wrinkly structure. The wrinkled GO/TPU foams with 0.5 wt% GO revealed higher expansion ratio, lower foam density, superior compressive property and energy absorption than both neat TPU and 1 wt% GO foams owing to the reinforcing effect of the wrinkly structure. This study is of great significance in the development of low‐density composite foams with enhanced compressive performance by wrinkly structures.
Programming of micro/nano‐scale information on low switching temperature shape memory film
Authors: Zhang Ziyou , Li Zhenpeng , Sun Ruolin , Olah Andrew , Baer Eric
Published: May 2022

Shape memory polymer films have been of great interests in storing functional information because of their optical and mechanical variability. High molecular weight polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) is an ideal shape memory material to program micro‐ and nano‐scale patterns on the surface of highly transparent films. By blending PVAc with polyethylene glycol (PEG) plasticizer, lower switching temperatures could be achieved. We develop a shape memory PVAc/PEG blend film system featuring a unique design by taking advantage of multiple switching temperatures. The effect of the PEG composition was studied relative to different surface patterns, switching temperatures and efficiency of information retrieval by utilizing differential scanning calorimetry and UV/Vis analysis. The results indicate that higher contents of PEG enhanced the recovery efficiency of both the micro‐scale and nano‐scale patterns and the corresponding optical properties. Furthermore, a dual switching shape memory film was developed enabling multiple switching temperatures that can lead to versatile applications.
A green composite hydrogel based on xylan and lignin with adjustable mechanical properties, high swelling, excellent UV shielding, and antioxidation properties
Authors: Yi Yanbin , Wang Xiaohui , Liu Zhongming , Gao Chao , Fatehi Pedram , Wang Shoujuan , Kong Fangong
Published: May 2022

This study successfully prepared a novel green composite hydrogel based on carboxymethyl xylan and lignin with adjustable mechanical properties, high swelling, excellent UV shielding, and antioxidation performance. The structure and morphology of the hydrogel were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectra, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, rheological analysis, and swelling ratio. Results showed that lignin could significantly improve the mechanical properties of composite hydrogels. The compression stress and toughness of the composite hydrogel contained lignin increased by 39% and 60%, respectively, and the compressive deformation reached 90%. In addition, the addition of lignin increased the swelling ratio of the composite hydrogel reached 79.9 g/g. In addition, the composite hydrogel exhibited excellent UV shielding and antioxidation performance. The removal ratio of UV and free radicals is as high as 80% and 90%, respectively. The simple procedure and cost‐effective lignin as raw material for hydrogel with adjustable properties are favorable for medical‐biological applications.
The value of in‐person undergraduate dissection in anatomical education in the time of Covid‐19
Authors: MacPherson Emily , Lisk Kristina
Published: May 2022

While several innovative pedagogical practices have been developed and implemented in anatomy education since the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid‐19) pandemic, considering the value of in‐person undergraduate dissection remains crucial. In this commentary, a human dissection course at the University of Toronto is used as an example to highlight the value of dissection for undergraduate learners in non‐professional programs. In‐person dissection allows for real life, anatomical variation, and supports the advancement of students' conceptual knowledge of the human body and visual–spatial abilities. Direct involvement with dissection during undergraduate training also provides students with an opportunity to practice and refine non‐technical skills, such as communication and collaboration, while simultaneously promoting the development of students' professional identity formation. Further, dissection is a practical, hands‐on experience that can provide students with insight into potential career aspirations related to anatomy and the health professions. It is suggested that as institutions veer from traditional pedagogical practices and evaluate how to best move forward post‐pandemic, it is imperative that the value of undergraduate dissection is considered among new innovations in the field of anatomy.
Finite‐time input L2 bumpless transfer control for switched systems with its application to aircraft model
Authors: Zhao Ying , Wang Xinying , Chen Yuqing , Li Wenqing
Published: May 2022

This article addresses the finite‐time (FT) input
bumpless transfer (BT) control problem for switched systems. First, the performance of the input
BT is described, quantifying the energy difference caused by the input signal jumps. The objective is to suppress large jumps during switching. Second, a sufficient evidence is established through the multiple Lyapunov functions method to ensure that the switched systems satisfy both the FT
property and input
BT performance. Also, this evidence allows that the control issue may not be addressed by subsystems. Then, a switching controller and a switching rule are simultaneously constructed for purpose of addressing the issue of the FT input
BT control for switched systems. Finally, an effective validation of the established control method is verified by an
‐18 aircraft model simulation.
Assessment of the sustainability and economic potential of hydrotreated vegetable oils to complement diesel and biodiesel blends in Brazil
Authors: Julio Alisson Aparecido Vitoriano , Milessi Thais Suzane , Maya Diego Mauricio Yepes , Lora Electo Silva , Palacio José Carlos Escobar
Published: May 2022

‘Curb CO2 emissions’ is a common expression today and it will be heard even more frequently in the future. Biofuels have attracted attention for many years, and recently this attention has been directed, in particular, to biofuels in heavy‐duty vehicles. This sector contributes to a significant quantity of emissions in Brazil. This class of fuels – biodiesel, fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) – has an established industry in Brazil. However, the limited capacity for the production of biodiesel, and the limitations imposed by its properties, make it difficult to expand the industry. Thus, hydrotreated vegetable oils (HVOs) have emerged as a more environmental friendly fuel and a potential alternative to cut emissions in the transportation sector. To identify ways to use such fuels in Brazil, this study reviews environmental indicators for diesel, biodiesel, and HVO, and compares then using a composite score. Based on specific emission factors, scenarios for the use of HVO are evaluated in terms of emissions avoided, potential granting of decarbonization credits, and feasibility for investment. The results in one of the scenarios evaluated show that 0.5 decarbonization credits can be granted for each liter of HVO consumed in Brazil. There is room for profitability in all of the scenarios. This work also shows that Brazil has the necessary public policies to foster biofuels on a large scale, and, with blend mandates being reformulated, the country could avoid emissions of over 12.9 million CO2 tons per year in the transport sector. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time‐dependent ROC curve estimation for interval‐censored data
Authors: Beyene Kassu Mehari , El Ghouch Anouar
Published: May 2022

The receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curve is the most popular graphical method for evaluating the classification accuracy of a diagnostic marker. In time‐to‐event studies, the subject's event status is time‐dependent, and hence, time‐dependent extensions of ROC curve have been proposed. However, in practice, the calculation of this curve is not straightforward due to the presence of censoring that may be of different types. Existing methods focus on the more standard and simple case of right‐censoring and neglect the general case of mixed interval‐censored data that may involve left‐, right‐, and interval‐censored observations. In this context, we propose and study a new time‐dependent ROC curve estimator. We also consider some summary measures (area under the ROC curve and Youden index) traditionally associated with ROC as well as the Youden‐based cutoff estimation method. The proposed method uses available data very efficiently. To this end, the unknown status (positive or negative) of censored subjects are estimated from the data via the estimation of the conditional survival function given the marker. For that, we investigate both model‐based and nonparametric approaches. We also provide variance estimates and confidence intervals using Bootstrap. A simulation study is conducted to investigate the finite sample behavior of the proposed methods and to compare their performance with a competitor. Globally, we observed better finite sample performances for the proposed estimators. Finally, we illustrate the methods using two data sets one from a hypobaric decompression sickness study and the other from an oral health study. The proposed methods are implemented in theRpackagecenROC.
Regression‐based heterogeneity analysis to identify overlapping subgroup structure in high‐dimensional data
Authors: Luo Ziye , Yao Xinyue , Sun Yifan , Fan Xinyan
Published: May 2022

Heterogeneity is a hallmark of complex diseases. Regression‐based heterogeneity analysis, which is directly concerned with outcome–feature relationships, has led to a deeper understanding of disease biology. Such an analysis identifies the underlying subgroup structure and estimates the subgroup‐specific regression coefficients. However, most of the existing regression‐based heterogeneity analyses can only address disjoint subgroups; that is, each sample is assigned to only one subgroup. In reality, some samples have multiple labels, for example, many genes have several biological functions, and some cells of pure cell types transition into other types over time, which suggest that their outcome–feature relationships (regression coefficients) can be a mixture of relationships in more than one subgroups, and as a result, the disjoint subgrouping results can be unsatisfactory. To this end, we develop a novel approach to regression‐based heterogeneity analysis, which takes into account possible overlaps between subgroups and high data dimensions. A subgroup membership vector is introduced for each sample, which is combined with a loss function. Considering the lack of information arising from small sample sizes, an norm penalty is developed for each membership vector to encourage similarity in its elements. A sparse penalization is also applied for regularized estimation and feature selection. Extensive simulations demonstrate its superiority over direct competitors. The analysis of Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia data and lung cancer data from The Cancer Genome Atlas show that the proposed approach can identify an overlapping subgroup structure with favorable performance in prediction and stability.
A two‐way additive model with unknown group‐specific interactions applied to gene expression data
Authors: Zheng Tianqi , Guo Jianhua , Ma Yanyuan
Published: May 2022

We propose a two‐way additive model with group‐specific interactions, where the group information is unknown. We treat the group membership as latent information and propose an EM algorithm for estimation. With a single observation matrix and under the situation of diverging row and column numbers, we rigorously establish the estimation consistency and asymptotic normality of our estimator. Extensive simulation studies are conducted to demonstrate the finite sample performance. We apply the model to the triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) gene expression data and provide a new way to classify patients into different subtypes. Our analysis detects the potential genes that may be associated with TNBC.