bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineered Bacteria Enhance Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy through Stromal Remodeling of Tumors
Authors: Thomas Shindu C. , Madaan Tushar , Kamble Nitin S. , Siddiqui Nabil A. , Pauletti Giovanni M. , Kotagiri Nalinikanth
Published: November 2021

Desmoplastic solid tumors are characterized by the rapid build‐up of extracellular matrix (ECM) macromolecules, such as hyaluronic acid (HA). The resulting physiological barrier prevents the infiltration of immune cells and also impedes the delivery of anticancer agents. The development of a hypervesiculating Escherichia coli Nissle (ΔECHy) based tumor targeting bacterial system capable of distributing a fusion peptide, cytolysin A (ClyA)‐hyaluronidase (Hy) via outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) is reported. The capability of targeting hypoxic tumors, manufacturing recombinant proteins in situ and the added advantage of an on‐site OMV based distribution system makes the engineered bacterial vector a unique candidate for peptide delivery. The HA degrading potential of Hy for stromal modulation is combined with the cytolytic activity of ClyA followed by testing it within syngeneic cancer models. ΔECHy is combined with immune checkpoint antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) to demonstrate that remodeling the tumor stroma results in the improvement of immunotherapy outcomes and enhancing the efficacy of biological signaling inhibitors. The biocompatibility of ΔECHy is also investigated to show that the engineered bacteria are effectively cleared, elicit minimal inflammatory and immune responses, and therefore could be a reliable candidate as a live biotherapeutic.
Natural Acidic Polysaccharide‐Based Memristors for Transient Electronics: Highly Controllable Quantized Conductance for Integrated Memory and Nonvolatile Logic Applications
Authors: Zhao Xiaoning , Xu Jiaqi , Xie Dan , Wang Zhongqiang , Xu Haiyang , Lin Ya , Hu Junli , Liu Yichun
Published: November 2021

As a leading candidate for further memory and computing applications, memristors are being developed in an important direction of transient electronics. Herein, wafer‐scale acidic polysaccharide thin films are reported as promising materials for memristors with remarkable transient characteristics. The memristor shows freestanding and lightweight features, and can be fully dissolved in deionized water within 3.5 s. More importantly, the ion‐confinement capability of acidic polysaccharides where the cations can interact with the ionizable acid groups enables atomic manipulation of conductive filament. As a result, (i) a single device can produce 16 highly controllable and independent quantized conductance (QC) states with quasi‐nonvolatile and nonvolatile characteristics and (ii) QC switching can be performed with ultrafast speed (2–5 ns) and low energy consumption (0.6–16 pJ). These remarkable features make the memristor promising for fast, low‐power, and high‐density memory and computing applications. Based on QC switching, the encoding/decoding and nonvolatile basic Boolean logic are designed and implemented. More importantly, “stateful” material implication logic which is promising for future in‐memory computing is demonstrated with QC switching. These results significantly advance acidic polysaccharides to develop nanodevices with quantum effects.
Robotic Manipulation under Harsh Conditions Using Self‐Healing Silk‐Based Iontronics
Authors: Liu Mengwei , Zhang Yujia , Zhang Yanghong , Zhou Zhitao , Qin Nan , Tao Tiger H.
Published: November 2021

Progress toward intelligent human–robotic interactions requires monitoring sensors that are mechanically flexible, facile to implement, and able to harness recognition capability under harsh environments. Conventional sensing methods have been divided for human‐side collection or robot‐side feedback and are not designed with these criteria in mind. However, the iontronic polymer is an example of a general method that operates properly on both human skin (commonly known as skin electronics or iontronics) and the machine/robotic surface. Here, a unique iontronic composite (silk protein/glycerol/Ca(II) ion) and supportive molecular mechanism are developed to simultaneously achieve high conductivity (around 6 kΩ at 50 kHz), self‐healing (within minutes), strong stretchability (around 1000%), high strain sensitivity and transparency, and universal adhesiveness across a broad working temperature range (−40–120 °C). Those merits facilitate the development of iontronic sensing and the implementation of damage‐resilient robotic manipulation. Combined with a machine learning algorithm and specified data collection methods, the system is able to classify 1024 types of human and robot hand gestures under challenging scenarios and to offer excellent object recognition with an accuracy of 99.7%.
Volatility Transition from Short‐Term to Long‐Term Photonic Transistor Memory by Using Smectic Liquid Crystalline Molecules as a Floating Gate
Authors: Li Guan‐Syuan , Hung Chih‐Chien , Chiang Yun‐Chi , Lin Yan‐Cheng , Yang Yun‐Fang , Yang Wei‐Chen , Yen Hao‐Chi , Chen Chun‐Kai , Hsu Li‐Che , Chen Wen‐Chang
Published: November 2021

Rod‐like molecules with liquid crystalline phase transitions show highly ordered stacking and orientation, which is promising as the floating gate electret in high‐performance photonic field‐effect transistor (FET) memory. In this work, a series of rod‐like molecules, alkyl‐dinaphtho[2,3‐b:2′,3′‐f]thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene (Cn‐DNTT), are investigated with a smectic liquid crystalline phase transition. The photonic FET memory featuring these rod‐like molecules is correlated with their morphology and crystallographic properties. A volatility transition from short−term to long−term memory behavior is found by utilizing the smectic liquid crystalline phase transitions (SmX, X = H, K, E) to orient the stacking in the floating gate. Accordingly, the annealed 2,9‐didecyldinaphtho[2,3‐b:2′,3′‐f]thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene (C10‐DNTT) polycrystalline film with the optimized alkyl chain length achieved preferential end‐on orientation associated with the herringbone‐type stacking to store charges during photowriting, along with effective charge tunneling for the trapped charges during electrical erasing. Therefore, the resultant photonic FET memory provided a superior ON/OFF current ratio of up to 105 with retention of 104 after 104 s. The results demonstrate that rod‐like molecules with smectic liquid crystalline phase and highly ordered orientation have great potentials for developing high‐performance photonic FET memory.
Mass transfer behavior of methane in porous carbon materials
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Chen Jingjing , Li Licheng , Huang Liangliang , Lu Xiaohua , Zuo Songlin
Published: November 2021

The low mass transfer rate in porous materials hinders the use of adsorbed natural gas as vehicle fuel. Fundamentally, the mass transfer rate depends on the structures of the adsorbents and the operating conditions. Therefore, in this study, the effects of adsorbent (activated carbons) structure and operating conditions on the mass transfer rate of methane (main component of natural gas) were investigated quantitatively, providing a theoretical basis for the synthesis of efficient adsorbent materials. By performing Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics simulations and utilizing a nonequilibrium thermodynamic linearization transfer model, the mass transfer behavior of methane in porous carbon materials was quantitatively evaluated, specifically focusing on the material structure, operating conditions, and feasibility of using natural gas as vehicle fuel. The proposed linear nonequilibrium thermodynamic mass transfer model is applicable to interfacial gas species and provides a valuable tool for gas separation.
Clip‐off Chemistry: Synthesis by Programmed Disassembly of Reticular Materials**
Authors: Yang Yunhui , Broto‐Ribas Anna , Ortín‐Rubio Borja , Imaz Inhar , Gándara Felipe , Carné‐Sánchez Arnau , Guillerm Vincent , Jurado Sergio , Busqué Félix , Juanhuix Judith , Maspoch Daniel
Published: November 2021

Bond breaking is an essential process in chemical transformations and the ability of researchers to strategically dictate which bonds in a given system will be broken translates to greater synthetic control. Here, we report extending the concept of selective bond breaking to reticular materials in a new synthetic approach that we call Clip‐off Chemistry. We show that bond‐breaking in these structures can be controlled at the molecular level; is periodic, quantitative, and selective; is effective in reactions performed in either solid or liquid phases; and can occur in a single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal fashion involving the entire bulk precursor sample. We validate Clip‐off Chemistry by synthesizing two topologically distinct 3D metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) from two reported 3D MOFs, and a metal‐organic macrocycle from metal‐organic polyhedra (MOP). Clip‐off Chemistry opens the door to the programmed disassembly of reticular materials and thus to the design and synthesis of new molecules and materials.
Improving carbon/carbon composites mechanical and thermal properties by the co‐carbonization of pre‐oxidized carbon fiber and pitch
Authors: Li Jie , Yang Zefeng , Zhao Yang , Li Xiang , Wei Wenfu , Li Hao , Tu Chuanjun , Chen Qichen , Yin Guofeng , Wu Guangning
Published: November 2021

The interfacial cracks generated during the high‐temperature carbonization process, caused by the mismatch of thermal shrinkage rate between the fiber and matrix, limit the huge application potential of C/C composites. In this study, pre‐oxidized carbon fiber (OPF) prepared from pitch, as a reinforcement, was introduced into the pitch‐based carbon matrix to realize the co‐carbonization of OPF and pitch. The results showed that the mechanical and thermal properties of the OPF‐reinforced C/C composites were significantly improved. The compressive strength and flexural strength were 136.97 and 46.71 MPa, respectively, both were about 2.5 times higher than those of pristine C/C composites. And OPF‐C/Cs had a carbon residual of about 30% at 800°C, which was 2.8, 4.4, and 2.1 times higher than that of Pristine‐C/Cs, CF‐C/Cs, and MCF‐C/Cs, respectively. The rough surface and abundant active sites of OPF could promote the growth of the graphite microcrystalline structure, resulting in an excellent fiber/matrix interface. Moreover, the adaptive expansion of OPF occurred during the co‐carbonization process with pitch, which inhibited the generation of cracks at the fiber/matrix interface. Owing to its excellent affinity with pitch, OPF is believed to have a wide range of promising applications in high‐performance C/C composites that require high‐temperature treatment.
Synergetic effect of aramid nanofiber‐graphene oxide hybrid filler on the properties of rubber compounds for tire tread application
Authors: Jung Jaehyun , Sodano Henry A.
Published: November 2021

The properties of rubber compounds used in tire tread largely contribute to the overall performance of tires in vehicles. Among the various ingredients used, reinforcing fillers are known for having the most significant effect on the static and dynamic properties of rubber compounds. In this work, two strong nanoscale materials, aramid nanofibers (ANFs) and graphene oxides (GOs), are modified using a silane coupling agent and combined to form a novel hybrid filler. The functionalized ANF/GO (fANF/GO) hybrid filler is obtained by adding functionalized GOs (fGOs) into functionalized ANFs (fANFs). The fANF/GO reinforced rubber compounds are then fabricated and tested to investigate the effect of the novel hybrid filler on mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties. The prepared rubber compounds using hybrid fillers exhibit improved mechanical properties and abrasion resistance compared to rubber compounds only reinforced using fANF or fGO alone and reference compounds. Moreover, dynamic mechanical analysis reveals a 21.8% decrease in the rolling resistance of fANF/GO reinforced rubber samples while preserving wet grip performance. Thus, this research demonstrates the potential of the ANFs and GOs‐based functionalized hybrid fillers for the application of high‐performance tire treads.
Synthesis of cellulose based super absorbent and its excellent oil–water separation properties
Authors: Wang Chun , Zhou Li , Ma Chao , Zhang Lu , Li Yuan
Published: November 2021

The work reported aims to developing the grafted cellulose fiber‐based material (polyethylene wax‐grafted maleic anhydride)/cellulose fiber; PEW‐g‐MA/CF) for efficient absorption of oil from aqueous solution. PEW‐g‐MA/CF was prepared via grafting modification between cellulose fiber and the maleic anhydride modified polyethylene wax, resulting in a cost‐effective approach for synthesizing cellulose‐based oil super absorbent. The as‐prepared PEW‐g‐MA/CF was systematically characterized via Fourier‐transform infrared, atomic force microscope, and thermogravimetric; the influencing factors of oil absorption, including the weight ratio of the raw materials, reaction temperature, and reaction time, were studied and compared. The maximum oil absorbency was up to 19.36 g/g‐1 with the condition of weight ratio 1:1; temperature 60°C; and reaction time 3 h. Overall, PEW‐g‐MA/CF is an environmentally friendly and cost‐effective material for high oil absorption from aqueous solution, and the valuable findings might provide an idea for maximizing the potential of the cellulose‐based absorbents for a variety of applications.
Improving thermal oxidative aging resistance and anti‐reversion property of natural rubber by adding a crosslinking agent
Authors: Jiang Yang , Zhang Yong
Published: November 2021

The reversion during the curing and the poor thermal oxidative aging resistance of natural rubber are two main problems for its use as a tire tread. To solve the problems, a crosslinking agent, 1,6‐bis(N,N′‐dibenzyl thiocarbamoyl dithio)‐hexane (DBTH), is added into natural rubber/carbon black composites. DBTH can increase the crosslink density, improve the mechanical properties and thermal oxidative aging resistance of the composites. The composites with DBTH can maintain good wet‐skid resistance after thermal oxidative aging. When 0.2 phr DBTH is used to substitute 0.1 phr sulfur and 0.1 phr accelerator in a natural rubber/carbon black composite, the reversion during the curing is reduced and the DIN abrasion decreases by 6%, while the modulus and hardness of the composite keep close to the original. Besides, after thermal oxidative aging at 100°C for 48 h, the rate of change of stress at 300% strain of the composite decreases by 27% with the substitution of DBTH.
Assessing the theoretical potential of an expanded model for everyday information practices
Authors: Savolainen Reijo , Thomson Leslie
Published: November 2021

The present study contributes to the development of integrated models for information behavior and practices at the domain‐specific level. To this end, the model for everyday information practices proposed by Savolainen in 2008 is enhanced by integrating the element of information creating, based on Thomson's recent 2018 study. The integration resulted in the expanded model for everyday information practices. Using conceptual analysis, the above model was examined in light of conventional (positivist and post‐positivist) and interpretive (social constructivist) criteria for theory assessment. The findings suggest that the integrated model meets best the interpretive criteria such as meaningfulness and understandability, mutuality of concepts and descriptive logic, empirical verifiability, and usefulness. In contrast, theoretical potential of the model is fairly limited when weighed against the conventional criteria, such as generalization and prediction. Overall, the findings suggest that, in its current form, the expanded model cannot be regarded as a “genuine theory” of everyday information practices. However, the model does incorporate many of the qualities characteristic of social scientific theories, and thus exhibits considerable theoretical potential. This is even more so if the interpretive, naturalistic basis of the data in which the expanded model is based is considered.
Lewontin did not commit Lewontin's fallacy, his critics do: Why racial taxonomy is not useful for the scientific study of human variation
Authors: Roseman Charles C.
Published: November 2021

In 1972, R.C. Lewontin concluded that it follows from the fact that the large majority of human genetic variation (≈ 85%) is among individuals within local populations that racial taxonomy is unjustified. Three decades later, Edwards demonstrated that while the accuracy with which individuals may be assigned to groups is poor for a single locus, consideration of multi‐locus data allows for highly accurate assignments. Edwards concluded that Lewontin's dismissal of racial taxonomy was unwarranted. Edwards misidentified the aim of Lewontin's critique, which was directed at the utility of racial classification and not at assigning individuals to groups using genetic data. Moreover, Edwards conflated distinct kinds of correlation when sketching out his argument. If we follow Edwards’ argument to its natural terminus, it becomes clear that it is consideration of all of the correlation structure among local groups in human genetic data that renders racial taxonomy scientifically useless. Lewontin considers the correlation structure relevant to his analysis of racial taxonomy and does not make his eponymous misstep. Rather, critics of Lewontin who use racial taxonomies in their work are the primary offenders when it comes to committing Lewontin's fallacy.
The effectiveness of a provincial symptom assessment program in reaching adolescents and young adults with cancer: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Gupta Sumit , Sutradhar Rinku , Li Qing , Coburn Natalie
Published: November 2021

Background

Symptom control is prioritized by cancer patients and may improve overall survival. Ontario, Canada thus offers all cancer patients screening using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) at outpatient cancer‐related visits. We determined whether this initiative reached adolescents and young adults (AYA) and factors associated with screening in this population.

Methods

We linked all Ontario AYA diagnosed with cancer 2010–2018 aged 15–29 years to population‐based databases identifying outpatient visits and ESAS screening. For each 2‐week period in the year post‐diagnosis, AYA with cancer‐related visits were categorized as “unscreened” (no ESAS score) versus “screened” (≥1 ESAS score). Demographic and disease‐related covariates were examined.

Results

Among 5435 AYA, 4204 (77.4%) had ≥1 ESAS screen. Within any 2‐week period, only 30%–44% of AYA attending cancer‐related visits were screened. Patients with hematologic malignancies were least likely to be screened [odds ratio (OR) vs. breast cancer 0.77, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.67–0.88; p < 0.001]. AYA in remote Northern or rural areas had equivalent or higher rates of ESAS screening compared to those in high‐income urban areas. However, AYA living in the lowest income urban neighborhoods were less likely to be screened (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.77–0.97; p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Within a population‐wide symptom assessment program, while AYA living in rural and remote areas had high rates of screening, than those in low‐income urban areas were substantially less likely to be screened. Though patients with hematologic cancers suffer from particularly high symptom burdens, they were also less likely to be screened. Interventions targeting AYA are required to increase uptake.
(R)‐α‐Trifluoromethylalanine as a 19F NMR Probe for the Monitoring of Protease Digestion of Peptides
Authors: Devillers Emmanuelle , Chelain Evelyne , Dalvit Claudio , Brigaud Thierry , Pytkowicz Julien
Published: November 2021

Fluorinated non‐natural amino acids are useful tools for improving the bioavailability of peptides but can also serve as fluorinated probes in 19F NMR‐based enzymatic assays. We report herein that the use of the non‐natural α‐quaternarized (R)‐α‐trifluoromethylalanine ((R)‐α‐TfmAla) provides convenient and accurate monitoring of trypsin proteolytic activity and increases resistance towards pepsin degradation.
Weinreb Amide, Ketone and Amine as Potential and Competitive Secondary Molecular Stations for Dibenzo‐[24]Crown‐8 in [2]Rotaxane Molecular Shuttles
Authors: Gauthier Maxime , Coutrot Frédéric
Published: November 2021

This paper reports the synthesis and study of new pH‐sensitive DB24C8‐based [2]rotaxane molecular shuttles that contain within their axle four potential sites of interaction for the DB24C8: ammonium, amine, Weinreb amide, and ketone. In the protonated state, the DB24C8 lay around the best ammonium site. After either deprotonation or deprotonation‐then‐carbamoylation of the ammonium, different localizations of the DB24C8 were seen, depending on both the number and nature of the secondary stations and steric restriction. Unexpectedly, the results indicated that the Weinreb amide was not a proper secondary molecular station for the DB24C8. Nevertheless, through its methoxy side chain, it slowed down the shuttling of the macrocycle along the threaded axle, thereby partitioning the [2]rotaxane into two translational isomers on the NMR timescale. The ketone was successfully used as a secondary molecular station, and its weak affinity for the DB24C8 was similar to that of a secondary amine.
Wellbore Cement – as Simple as It Sounds?
Authors: Czuprat Oliver , Ruch Andreas , Zamora‐Anders Natalie , Lohmeier Sven Jare
Published: November 2021

The oil industry uses Portland cement in their wells, which is manufactured predominantly in accordance with American Petroleum Institute classifications. Also, cements following standards applied in civil/construction engineering are used, which gain importance recently. A field case is reviewed where a cement plug job was performed across the Zechstein formation of a well in a Rotliegend Group and chemical interactions between the cement slurry and a geological formation could be observed. Furthermore, examples for methods to characterize the porosity of the dry cement powder are referenced.
Modelling Photoionisation in Isocytosine: Potential Formation of Longer‐Lived Excited State Cations in its Keto Form
Authors: Segarra‐Martí Javier , Bearpark Michael J.
Published: November 2021

The front cover artwork is provided by Dr. Javier Segarra‐Martí (University of Valencia, Spain) and Prof. Michael J. Bearpark (Imperial College London, UK). The image shows the ultrafast photoionisation of DNA canonical nucleobase cytosine and the slower ionization process in non‐canonical base isocytosine embedded within a DNA backbone. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cphc.202100402.
Early‐life patterns of growth are linked to levels of phenotypic trait covariance and postfledging mortality across avian species
Authors: Merrill Loren , Jones Todd M. , Brawn Jeffrey D. , Ward Michael P.
Published: November 2021

Life history studies have established that trade‐offs between growth and survival are common both within and among species. Identifying the factor(s) that mediate this trade‐off has proven difficult, however, especially at the among‐species level. In this study, we examined a series of potentially interrelated traits in a community of temperate‐zone passerine birds to help understand the putative causes and consequences of variation in early‐life growth among species. First, we examined whether nest predation risk (a proven driver of interspecific variation in growth and development rates) was correlated with species‐level patterns of incubation duration and nestling period length. We then assessed whether proxies for growth rate covaried with mean trait covariance strength (i.e., phenotypic correlations (rp), which can be a marker of early‐life stress) among body mass, tarsus length, and wing length at fledging. Finally, we examined whether trait covariance strength at fledging was related to postfledging survival. We found that higher nest predation risk was correlated with faster skeletal growth and that our proxies for growth corresponded with increased trait covariance strength (rp), which subsequently, correlated with higher mortality in the next life stage (postfledging period). These results provide an indication that extrinsic pressures (nest predation) impact rates of growth, and that there are costs of rapid growth across species, expressed as higher mean rp and elevated postfledging mortality. The link between higher levels of trait covariance at fledging and increased mortality is unclear, but increased trait covariance strength may reflect reduced phenotypic flexibility (i.e., phenotypic canalization), which may limit an organism's capacity for coping with environmental or ecological variability.
Depicting the phenotypic space of the annual plant Diplotaxis acris in hyperarid deserts
Authors: Gomaa Nasr H. , Picó F. Xavier
Published: November 2021

The phenotypic space encompasses the assemblage of trait combinations yielding well‐suited integrated phenotypes. At the population level, understanding the phenotypic space structure requires the quantification of among‐ and within‐population variations in traits and the correlation pattern among them. Here, we studied the phenotypic space of the annual plant Diplotaxis acris occurring in hyperarid deserts. Given the advance of warming and aridity in vast regions occupied by drylands, D. acris can indicate the successful evolutionary trajectory that many other annual plant species may follow in expanding drylands. To this end, we conducted a greenhouse experiment with 176 D. acris individuals from five Saudi populations to quantify the genetic component of variation in architectural and life history traits. We found low among‐population divergence but high among‐individual variation in all traits. In addition, all traits showed a high degree of genetic determination in our study experimental conditions. We did not find significant effects of recruitment and fecundity on fitness. Finally, all architectural traits exhibited a strong correlation pattern among them, whereas for life history traits, only higher seed germination implied earlier flowering. Seed weight appeared to be an important trait in D. acris as individuals with heavier seeds tended to advance flowering and have a more vigorous branching pattern, which led to higher fecundity. Population divergence in D. acris might be constrained by the severity of the hyperarid environment, but populations maintain high among‐individual genetic variation in all traits. Furthermore, D. acris showed phenotypic integration for architectural traits and, to a lesser extent, for life history traits. Overall, we hypothesize that D. acris may be fine‐tuned to its demanding extreme environments. Evolutionary speaking, annual plants facing increasing warming, aridity, and environmental seasonality might modify their phenotypic spaces toward new phenotypic configurations strongly dominated by correlated architectural traits enhancing fecundity and seed‐related traits advancing flowering time.
Cobalt, Iron, and Manganese Metallocorroles in Catalytic Oxidation of Water. An Overview of the Synthesis, Selected Redox and Electronic Properties, and Catalytic Activities
Authors: Vaillard Victoria A. , Nieres Pablo D. , Vaillard Santiago E. , Doctorovich Fabio , Sarkar Biprajit , Neuman Nicolás I.
Published: November 2021

Metallocorroles have emerged as interesting and versatile catalysts for a variety of redox reactions. These include clean‐energy related small‐molecule activation reactions such as proton, carbon dioxide and dioxygen reductions, as well as water oxidation, for which their ability to undergo several oxidation processes and reach high formal metal oxidation states makes them attractive catalysts. The diversity of substituent and central metal variations in metallocorroles opens up innumerable possibilities to tailor the properties and reactivity of this family of metallomacrocycles, and the richness of the (electro)chemistry and spectroscopy of metallocorroles allows for an array of instrumental techniques to be applied to the study of various (electro)catalytic processes. In this paper, we will succinctly summarize the synthesis of several cobalt, manganese, and iron metallocorroles with different apical ligands, discuss their redox properties and metal versus ligand centered oxidations through selected examples, and review their application in water oxidation (electro)catalysis. We will discuss some of the factors which affect the catalytic activity, some of the proposed mechanistic features and point out what we consider to be open questions and future perspectives in this field.
Na–Bi–Ge Glass Anode as a High‐Performance Network: Studies on Structure, High Rate Capability, and Long Cycle Stability
Authors: Yerranuka Saritha Kumari , Katta Vamsi Krishna , Katari Naresh Kumar , Rajesh Kumar S , Dutta Dimple P. , Ravuri Balaji Rao
Published: November 2021

Herein, the influence of nanosized amorphous intermediate domains such as Na3Bi and NaGe on the electrochemical characteristics of the new Na2O–Bi2O3 glass anode network mixed with “GeO2” nanocrystals is highlighted. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy pictures are evident of Bi2O3 and GeO2 crystals in the amorphous plain bright Na–Bi glass phase which is also justified in the X‐ray diffraction studies. The initial (1st) and final (500th) charge and discharge capacities are recorded to be 1097/783 and 621/614, respectively. The columbic efficiency ranged between 71% and 98.8% as the current rate varies from 0.1 to 5 C. The ionic conductivity achieved is quite high even for the 500th cycle. This is due to the lowest value of R
ct in the electro impedance spectroscopy spectra, which indicates a rise in electronic conductivity. The appreciable results obtained in this investigation create potential interest in designing and developing various glass and glass–ceramic anodes for large‐scale energy storage applications.
Ionic Liquid and Polymer Coated Garnet Solid Electrolytes for High‐Energy Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Liu Zhen , Borodin Andriy , Endres Frank
Published: November 2021

Garnet solid‐state electrolytes are promising for lithium metal batteries in terms of safety and stability. However, their rigid and brittle nature under humid air increase the interfacial resistance at the electrode/electrolyte interfaces. Herein, the ionic liquid (IL) 1‐butyl‐1‐methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amide ([Py1,4]TFSI) is employed to dissolve poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) polymer microstructures that facilitate ion transport through an amorphous rather than a crystalline polymer matrix. The PEO‐IL coatings on Ga doped garnet (LLZO) solid‐state electrolyte can effectively suppress the formation of Li2CO3 passivation layers on the garnet surface. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results show that the interfacial resistance of PEO‐IL coated Ga‐LLZO is much lower than that of uncoated Ga‐LLZO. In addition, the surface of PEO‐IL@Ga‐LLZO is flatter and it has a better contact with the Li anode than uncoated Ga‐LLZO. A symmetric cell of Li/PEO‐IL coated solid electrolyte/Li exhibits flat voltage profiles with overpotentials of less than 15 mV and shows a stable lithium plating/stripping process. A solid‐state battery based on PEO‐IL@Ga‐LLZO solid electrolyte combined with lithium metal anode and LiFePO4 (LFP) cathode delivers a specific capacity of ≈120 mAh g−1 with a Coulombic efficiency greater than 96% at 10 mA g(LFP)
−1.
Stability Enhancements on Methylammonium Lead‐Based Perovskite Nanoparticles: the Smart Use of Host Matrices
Authors: Jančík Ján , Krajcovic Jozef , Brüggemann Oliver , Salinas Yolanda
Published: November 2021

Despite the current advancements, yet improving the intrinsic structure and external environmental stability of hybrid metal halide perovskite nanomaterials is required for developing efficient perovskite‐based devices. Up‐to‐date, a very attractive method is growing and/or embedding perovskite nanocrystals within organic polymeric matrices, or into porous inorganic and hybrid nano/micromaterials (e. g., metal‐organic frameworks, mesoporous silica, zeolites, and others), favored through confinement effect within the pores. In this review, we highlighted the last two years of research progress on enhancing the stabilization of perovskite nanoparticles based on methylammonium cations. In the future generation of optoelectronic and photovoltaic devices along with other interesting applied fields, it is predicted that an effective way to trigger the widespread use of this type of perovskite nanocrystals may involve combining different functional host materials, acting as a smarter protection method for the guest nanocrystals.
Benzoporphyrin‐Based Nanocomposites for Photoelectrochemical O2 Reduction
Authors: Keawsongsaeng Wittawat , Seelajareon Hathaichanok , Namuangruk Supawadee , Chitpakdee Chirawat , Chasing Pongsakorn , Promarak Vinich , Sariciftci Niyazi Serdar , Thamyongkit Patchanita
Published: November 2021

This research presents a new series of tetrabenzoporphyrins (TBPs) bearing p‐diphenylaminophenylethynyl and p‐carboxylphenylethynyl groups or two p‐carboxylphenylethynyl groups in a trans‐fashion on a TBP core for photoelectrochemical O2 reduction. Impact of electron‐donating diphenylamino and electron‐withdrawing surface‐anchoring carboxyl groups on photophysical and electrochemical properties of the target TBPs was experimentally and theoretically investigated in comparison with those of their benchmark analog. The results show that while the p‐carboxylphenylethynyl group give an electronic contribution to the molecules by lowering energy gap, the role of the p‐diphenylaminophenylethynyl group is found to be trivial. Preliminary investigation on electrochemical O2 reduction indicates significant catalytic activities of TBP‐modified TiO2/fluorene‐doped tin oxide electrodes at potentials of −0.2 V and −0.3 V vs. normal hydrogen electrode (NHE) in a pH‐neutral and ambient aqueous condition, leading to H2O2 formation. Upon photoirradiation, catalytic performance of such TBP‐based electrodes is further enhanced with the optimum yield obtained when the dicarboxyl derivatives and the potential of −0.3 V vs. NHE are applied. Proposed photoinjection mechanism of the dye/TiO2 simulated by time‐dependent density functional theory calculations supported the experimental results indicating the favorable role of the target TBPs as photoelectrocatalysts in the O2 reduction.
Pharmacokinetics of Tropifexor, a Potent Farnesoid X Receptor Agonist, in Participants With Varying Degrees of Hepatic Impairment
Authors: Chen Jin , Gu Jessie , Shah Bharti , Stringer Rowan , Reis da Silva Torrao Leonel , Hackling Melissa , Nidamarthy Prasanna Kumar , Prince William T. , Woessner Ralph
Published: November 2021

Tropifexor, a non–bile acid farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist, has dose‐proportional pharmacokinetics and no obvious major enterohepatic circulation. This open‐label study investigated the effect of hepatic impairment (HI), as determined by Child‐Pugh grade, on tropifexor's pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability following a 200‐μg dose in the fasted state. Blood samples were collected through 168 hours after dosing for quantification and plasma protein‐binding determination. Total tropifexor exposure was comparable across participants with HI vs those with normal hepatic function. Tropifexor was highly protein bound (>99%) in human plasma across participants of all groups. The average unbound fractions (percentage free) were 0.14% in participants with normal hepatic function and mild HI, which increased to 0.17% and 0.24% in participants with moderate and severe HI, respectively. Similar unbound drug exposure was noted in participants with mild HI and normal hepatic function. Participants with moderate HI (N = 8) had a 1.6‐fold increase in unbound exposure (area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time 0 to infinity [AUCinf,u]) and a 1.3‐fold increase in maximal exposure (Cmax,u) vs those with normal hepatic function (geometric mean ratio: AUCinf,u, 1.64 [90%CI, 1.25‐2.16]; Cmax,u, 1.30 [90%CI, 0.96‐1.76]). Participants with severe HI (N = 8) had a 1.6‐fold increase in AUCinf,u (1.61 [90%CI, 1.04‐2.49]) and comparable Cmax,u (1.02 [90%CI, 0.60‐1.72]) compared to participants with normal hepatic function. Tropifexor was well tolerated. The relative insensitivity of tropifexor to HI offers the potential to treat patients with severe liver disease without dose adjustment.
Standardization of process protocol for isolation of starch from mango kernel and its characterization
Authors: Nayak Parv , Rayaguru Kalpana , Brahma Sandrayee , Routray Winny , Dash Sanjaya Kumar
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

The major by‐products of mango processing are the seeds, which represent approximately 15–20% of the fruit. The process protocol for isolation of starch from mango kernel was standardized based on starch yield, starch purity and colour values using centrifugation and chemical method. Optimized starches obtained from both methods were further investigated for estimation of functional properties and were characterized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry and pasting properties analysis.

RESULTS

The slurry making of mango kernels with a solid‐to‐water ratio of 1:3 at a centrifugation frequency of 3 times was found to be the best among all the experimental combinations (solid‐to‐water proportion (1:2, 1:3 and 1:4, w/v) and centrifugation frequency (2, 3 and 4 times)) with a starch yield of 48.43 ± 1.08% and purity of 76.46 ± 0.83%. In the chemical method of starch isolation (washing was done with 0.1 mol L−1 NaOH and 0.1 mol L−1 HCl at three levels each), the sample treated with 60% (w/v) 0.1 mol L−1 NaOH and 10% (w/v) 0.1 mol L−1 HCl resulted in 36.50 ± 0.58% starch yield with a purity of 92.03 ± 0.87%. Among the functional properties, the chemically isolated starch showed significantly higher paste clarity (45.79 ± 2.36%) than starch obtained using the centrifugation process (12.50 ± 1.57%). The chemically isolated starch also exhibited better colour attributes, which were very close to those of laboratory‐grade starch.

CONCLUSION

Detailed characterization studies inferred that both the starches possessed good functional, structural and thermal properties, indicating suitability for food and non‐food applications. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
One‐pot conversion of wheat straw into biobased chemicals in methanol/water medium using cheap mixed acid catalyst
Authors: Zhao Sibo , Huang Xuezheng , Yan Zhenli , Chang Chun , Xu Guizhuan , Du Chaojun , Jiao Youzhou , Chen Zhiyong
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

Environmental concerns and the diminishing availability of unrenewable resources have spurred research into the use of agricultural waste as a feedstock for industrial applications. Efficient conversion of wheat straw into biobased chemicals is an important way to realize the potential value of renewable agricultural biomass. This study investigated one‐pot conversion of wheat straw into two notable platform chemicals, levulinic acid (LA) and methyl levulinate (ML).

RESULTS

A mixed acid catalyst system, including 1% H2SO4 and 0.015 mol L–1 Al2(SO4)3, was an efficient catalyst for the conversion of wheat straw due to the combination of Brønsted acid and Lewis acid. A ratio of wheat straw to methanol of 5 g/50 mL was identified as the preferred solid/liquid ratio, and a methanol/H2O medium with 25% water content aided the simultaneous production of LA and ML from wheat straw. Under optimum conditions, the maximum total yield of LA and ML reached 23.01% at 220 °C and 3 h. The kinetics of biobased chemical formation and the reaction pathways in methanol/water were investigated.

CONCLUSION

The presence of water in the methanol/H2O medium affected the distribution of products and promoted hydrolysis reactions. The methanol/H2O medium not only inhibited the side reactions but also promoted the degradation of wheat straw and increased the total yield of LA and ML. This study provides a feasible method for the conversion of wheat straw to prepare biobased chemicals. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Current status of beta‐thalassemia and its treatment strategies
Authors: Ali Shaukat , Mumtaz Shumaila , Shakir Hafiz Abdullah , Khan Muhammad , Tahir Hafiz Muhammad , Mumtaz Samaira , Mughal Tafail Akbar , Hassan Ali , Kazmi Syed Akif Raza , Sadia  , Irfan Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Adeeb
Published: November 2021

Background

Thalassemia is an inherited hematological disorder categorized by a decrease or absence of one or more of the globin chains synthesis. Beta‐thalassemia is caused by one or more mutations in the beta‐globin gene. The absence or reduced amount of beta‐globin chains causes ineffective erythropoiesis which leads to anemia.

Methods

Beta‐thalassemia has been further divided into three main forms: thalassemia major, intermedia, and minor/silent carrier. A more severe form among these is thalassemia major in which individuals depend upon blood transfusion for survival. The high level of iron deposition occurs due to regular blood transfusion therapy.

Results

Overloaded iron raises the synthesis of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are noxious and prompting the injury to the hepatic, endocrine, and vascular system. Thalassemia can be analyzed and diagnosed via prenatal testing (genetic testing of amniotic fluid), blood smear, complete blood count, and DNA analysis (genetic testing). Treatment of thalassemia intermediate is symptomatic; however; it can also be accomplished by folic supplementation and splenectomy.

Conclusion

Thalassemia major can be cured through regular transfusion of blood, transplantation of bone marrow, iron chelation management, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, stimulation of fetal hemoglobin production, and gene therapy.
Design, content, and fieldwork procedures of the COVID‐19 Psychological Research Consortium (C19PRC) Study – Wave 4
Authors: McBride Orla , Butter Sarah , Murphy Jamie , Shevlin Mark , Hartman Todd K. , Bennett Kate M. , Stocks Thomas V. A. , Lloyd Alex , McKay Ryan , Gibson‐Miller Jilly , Levita Liat , Mason Liam , Martinez Anton P. , Hyland Philip , Vallières Frédérique , Karatzias Thanos , Valiente Carmen , Vazquez Carmelo , Bentall Richard P.
Published: November 2021

Objectives

This paper outlines fieldwork procedures for Wave 4 of the COVID‐19 Psychological Research Consortium (C19PRC) Study in the UK during November–December 2020.

Methods

Respondents provided data on socio‐political attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours, and mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress). In Phase 1, adults (N = 2878) were reinvited to participate. At Phase 2, new recruitment: (i) replenished the longitudinal strand to account for attrition; and (ii) oversampled from the devolved UK nations to facilitate robust between‐country analyses for core study outcomes. Weights were calculated using a survey raking algorithm to ensure the longitudinal panel was representative of the baseline sample characteristics.

Results

In Phase 1, 1796 adults were successfully recontacted and provided full interviews at Wave 4 (62.4% retention rate). In Phase 2, 292 new respondents were recruited to replenish the panel, as well as 1779 adults from Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, who were representative of the socio‐political composition of the adult populations in these nations. The raking procedure successfully re‐balanced the longitudinal panel to within 1% of population estimates for selected socio‐demographic characteristics.

Conclusion

The C19PRC Study offers a unique opportunity to facilitate and stimulate interdisciplinary research addressing important public health questions relating to the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Functionalized graphene nanoplatelets/poly (lactic acid)/chitosan nanocomposites: Mechanical, biodegradability, and electrical conductivity properties
Authors: Paydayesh Azin , Mousavi Seyed Rasoul , Estaji Sara , Khonakdar Hossein Ali , Nozarinya Mohammad Amin
Published: November 2021

Different contents of functionalized graphene nanoplatelet (FGNP) were incorporated into the blend of poly (lactic acid)/chitosan (PLA/CS) (75/25 wt/wt), and the effect of nanoplatelet addition on mechanical properties, biodegradability behavior, and electrical conductivity of the blend was investigated. The results revealed the proper dispersion of FGNP in the blend, and the nanocomposite containing 3 phr FGNP (PLA75/CS25/FGNP3) demonstrated the finest morphology and the narrowest size distribution. The nanocomposite filled with 3 phr FGNP indicated an improvement of approximately 142% and 261% in tensile strength and Young's modulus, respectively, compared to the neat blend. Moreover, with the addition of 3 phr FGNP to the PLA/CS blend, thermal stability significantly improved. In addition, the study of biodegradability behavior demonstrated that the weight loss rate enhanced over time. From the fifth week onwards, the weight loss rate diminished because of the decrease in the number of degradable functional groups in the nanocomposite. On the other hand, the thermal conductivity of PLA75/CS25/FGNP3 showed an improvement of higher than 12 orders of magnitude compared to the neat blend. In addition, experimental data on electrical conductivity and power‐law model predictions were consistent.
Parent perspectives on facilitating decision‐making around pediatric home ventilation
Authors: Jabre Nicholas A. , Raisanen Jessica C. , Shipman Kelly J. , Henderson Carrie M. , Boss Renee D. , Wilfond Benjamin S.
Published: November 2021

Rationale

Deciding about pediatric home ventilation is exceptionally challenging for parents. Understanding the decision‐making needs of parents who made different choices for their children could inform clinician counseling that better supports parents’ diverse values and goals.

Objectives

To determine how clinicians can meet the decisional needs of parents considering home ventilation using a balanced sample of families who chose for or against intervention.

Methods

We conducted semi‐structured interviews of parents who chose for or against home ventilation for their child within the previous 5 years. Parents were recruited from three academic centers across the United States. Interviews focused on parent–clinician communication during decision‐making and how clinicians made the process easier or more difficult. Qualitative analysis was used to generate themes and identify key results.

Results

Thirty‐eight parents were interviewed; 20 chose for and 18 chose against home ventilation. Five themes described their perspectives on how clinicians can facilitate high‐quality decision‐making: demonstrating dedication to families, effectively managing the medical team, introducing the concept of home ventilation with intention, facilitating meaningful conversation about the treatment options, and supporting and respecting the family's decision.

Conclusions

High‐quality decision‐making around home ventilation depends on individual clinician actions and the complex operations of large academic settings. Strong working relationships with parents, collaborative alliances with colleagues, and appropriate delivery of key content can help meet the needs of parents considering invasive breathing supports for their children.