bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical Erasure and Reconfiguration of Surface‐Relief‐Gratings of Azo Polymer and Azo Molecular Glass: A Comparative Study on Soft‐Lithographic Duplicates
Authors: Li Xu , Huang Hao , Wang Xiaogong
Published: August 2022

Surface‐relief‐gratings (SRGs) of azo polymers and azo molecular glasses have attracted considerable interest for their erasable and reconfigurable characteristics. Herein, the optical erasure of soft‐lithographically duplicated SRGs of an azo polymer (BP‐AZ‐CN) and an azo molecular glass (IAC‐4) is investigated to tackle a long‐standing problem from “memory” effect existing in optically inscribed SRGs. The optical erasure is performed by single laser beam irradiation at wavelength of 488 nm with different polarizations, and the erasing behavior is thoroughly investigated by real‐time diffraction efficiency measurement and atomic force microscopy (AFM) observation. Showing no obvious dependence on the light polarizations, the optical erasure of IAC‐4 grating is a relatively fast process, and the original one can be completely erased and recreated. In contrast, the erasure of BP‐AZ‐CN grating is not only much slower, but also strongly correlated with the light polarizations. Upon the p‐polarized light irradiation, the grating profiles are substantially distorted during the erasure with a significant difference in that of the s‐polarized light irradiation. The gratings cannot be completely erased by the lights with all the polarizations. The erasure behavior is found to be determined by the effects of surface tension and mass transfer along the light polarization direction to different extents.
Cladding‐Free Antiresonance in Tubular Structures
Authors: Zhao Jiayu , Yan Jiaao , Dong Zhanghua , Liu Chang , Han Yongpeng , Peng Yan , Lin Wei , Zhu Yiming
Published: August 2022

Antiresonance reflection (ARR) effectively turns tubular structures into functional devices ranging from waveguides to spectrometers and sensors, thus attracting a growing number of interests in recent years. Yet, ARRs are generally enabled inside the designed tube cladding with certain structural properties, which essentially acts as a quasi‐Fabry–Pérot (F–P) cavity. This limits the application of the ARR effect on popular tubular entities in non‐F–P cladding morphology, such as the chiral helical material or the self‐rolled‐up ultrathin/meshy membrane. Here, the scheme of core‐antiresonant reflection (core‐ARR or CARR) based on the leaky F–P effect is proposed, which validates ARRs inside the central core rather than the cladding of hollow tubes, hence expanding the optional scope of materials and constructions for tubular substances. Briefly, the CARR behavior is demonstrated in cylindrical, polyhedral, spiral, meshy, and notched hollow tubes with either transparent or opaque cladding materials. More importantly, tubular structures with CARR modes can be flexibly tuned in terms of the resonant frequency, which is used herein for sensitive detection of the environmental pressure, humidity, and thermal influence. As the CARR effect promotes interactions between light and various tubular structures, it holds promise for future opportunities in fields of physics, biophotonics, and material science.
Terahertz Near‐Field Vortex Beams with Variable Intensity Profiles Based on Geometric Metasurfaces
Authors: Zhu Yang , Zhou Yiwen , Fan Zhiyuan , Zang Xiaofei , Zhu Yiming , Zhuang Songlin
Published: August 2022

Electromagnetic waves possessing orbital angular momentum, namely, vortex beams, have attracted considerable attention in the fields ranging from optical communications to quantum science, due to their extraordinary information encoding capabilities. Vortex beams are traditionally exhibited with a doughnut‐shaped intensity distribution, where a null intensity center surrounded by a bright ring, caused by the phase singularity. Herein, geometric metasurface devices that can generate near‐field vortex beams with variable intensity profiles are proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The generation of a vortex beam with tailored intensity profile is realized by integrating the azimuthal nonlinear phase and spiral phase into ring‐shaped anisotropic air‐slit arrays. As proof‐of‐principle examples, multiple geometric metasurfaces that generate vortex beams with CN−fold rotational symmetric or asymmetric intensity profiles in the near‐field are demonstrated in the terahertz domain. This unique capability for terahertz near‐field vortices with variable intensity distributions based on geometric metasurface approach opens an avenue to develop multifunctional integrated systems and system‐on‐chip devices, leading to potential applications in microscopy, integrated photonics, quantum information processing, and optical communication.
Two‐Dimensional Angular Bandwidth Broadening of Metasurface Grating
Authors: Choi Chulsoo , Choi Taewon , Yun Jeong-Geun , Yoo Chanhyung , Lee Byoungho
Published: August 2022

Waveguide‐type near‐eye displays (NED) have attracted increasing attention in the market of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) devices, thanks to their outstanding performance within ultra‐compact size. The performance of waveguide‐type NED mainly depends on the waveguide coupler that transmits the incident image to the user's eye through the total internal reflection (TIR) inside the waveguide. However, the waveguide couplers, that have been widely used, exhibit nonuniform diffraction efficiency within the transferable angular range, i.e., field of view (FoV) of waveguide‐type NED, so that the image intensity distribution distortion is induced. Thus, it is needed that many researchers focus on broadening angular bandwidth to overcome the non‐uniformity of the diffraction efficiency. Herein, the 2D angular bandwidth broadening metasurface grating that exhibits uniform and high diffraction efficiency for the 2D FoV range is proposed. Specifically, the proposed device is designed specifically, and the diffraction efficiency of this device shows uniform efficiency of about 75% with a variance of 0.25% for the FoV range, and it is demonstrated both numerically and experimentally. Consequently, it is expected that the proposed device can be a game‐changer in the market for waveguide‐type NED for the enhancement of image uniformity.
Miniature Amphibious Robot Actuated by Rigid‐Flexible Hybrid Vibration Modules
Authors: Wang Dehong , Liu Yingxiang , Deng Jie , Zhang Shijing , Li Jing , Wang Weiyi , Liu Junkao , Chen Weishan , Quan Qiquan , Liu Gangfeng , Xie Hui , Zhao Jie
Published: August 2022

Amphibious robots can undertake various tasks in terrestrial and aquatic environments for their superior environmental compatibility. However, the existing amphibious robots usually utilize multi‐locomotion systems with transmission mechanisms, leading to complex and bulky structures. Here, a miniature amphibious robot based on vibration‐driven locomotion mechanism is developed. The robot has two unique rigid‐flexible hybrid modules (RFH‐modules), in which a soft foot and a flexible fin are arranged on a rigid leg to conduct vibrations from an eccentric motor to the environment. Then, it can run on ground with the soft foot adopting the friction locomotion mechanism and swim on water with the flexible fin utilizing the vibration‐induced flow mechanism. The robot is untethered with a compact size of 75 × 95 × 21 mm3 and a small weight of 35 g owing to no transmission mechanism or joints. It realizes the maximum speed of 815 mm s–1 on ground and 171 mm s–1 on water. The robot, actuated by the RFH‐modules based on vibration‐driven locomotion mechanism, exhibits the merits of miniature structure and fast movements, indicating its great potential for applications in narrow amphibious environments.
Pd(II)−Catalyzed Non‐Directed Benzylic C(sp3)−H Activation: Cascade C(sp3)−S Bond Cleavage to Access Benzaldehydes from Benzylphenyl Sulfides and Sulfoxides
Authors: Joshi Asha , Iqbal Zafar , Kandwal Pankaj , De Saroj Ranjan
Published: August 2022

A novel, efficient and mutual strategy on Pd(II)−catalyzed inert benzylic C(sp3)−H bond activation of benzylphenyl sulfides and sulfoxides has been developed that provides access to a series of benzaldehydes via cascade C(sp3)−S bond cleavage in one pot. The highlight of this protocol is the regiospecific activation of less reactive benzylic C(sp3)−H bond as compared to heteroatom‐directed more reactive C(sp2)−H bond, thus providing a strategy for late−stage site−selective C(sp3)−H bond functionalization. The reaction proceeds under air in moderate to good yields with excellent functional groups tolerance.
Asymmetric Friedel−Crafts Alkylation of Indoles with α,β‐unsaturated Trifluoromethyl Ketones Using a Squaramide Organocatalyst
Authors: Nakashima Kosuke , Hanamura Sumire , Imamura Aoi , Matsushima Yasuyuki , Hirashima Shin‐ichi , Miura Tsuyoshi
Published: August 2022

This study explores the asymmetric Friedel−Crafts alkylation of indoles with α,β‐unsaturated trifluoromethyl ketones using a squaramide organocatalyst. The squaramide organocatalyst efficiently promoted the asymmetric Friedel−Crafts alkylation of indoles with α,β‐unsaturated trifluoromethyl ketones, affording the corresponding products bearing both indole motif and trifluoromethyl group in high yields with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee). The transformation of the obtained adduct to chiral spiro indoline 3‐one was also demonstrated.
The Nϵ‐Rule for Serine, but Not Cysteine Catalytic Triads
Authors: Czapinska Honorata , Bochtler Matthias
Published: August 2022

Catalytic triads, composed of a serine or cysteine nucleophile, a histidine, and a third triad residue (typically Asp/Glu/Asn), are common in enzyme active sites and catalyze a wide variety of chemical reactions. Two types of triads can be distinguished: We refer to them as Nδ‐ or Nϵ‐configured, depending on whether the histidine imidazole Nδ or Nϵ atom is close to the nucleophile Oγ/Sγ. In this study, we have analyzed triad configuration. In structural triads, the more stable Nδ‐configuration predominates. For catalytic triads, the configuration depends on the nucleophile. When it is a cysteine residue, both configuration types occur, depending on the family. However, when the nucleophile is a serine residue, the less stable Nϵ‐configuration is almost exclusively found. We posit that the energetically less favored conformation is selected for in serine triads to facilitate the otherwise difficult proton transfer from the nucleophile to the histidine residue.
Heterosynthons, Solid Form Design and Enhanced Drug Bioavailability
Authors: Nangia Ashwini K. , Desiraju Gautam R.
Published: August 2022

Starting from a molecular pharmacophore, which is a marker of drug action in medicinal molecules, we propose that the heterosynthon, a supramolecular synthon between unlike functional groups, plays an analogous role in the design and discovery of high bioavailability drugs. The heterosynthon could provide a more efficient and economical route to novel drugs.
Proton Chemistry Induced Long‐Cycle Air Self‐Charging Aqueous Batteries
Authors: Yue Fang , Tie Zhiwei , Zhang Yan , Bi Songshan , Wang Yijing , Niu Zhiqiang
Published: August 2022

Air self‐charging aqueous metal‐ion batteries usually suffer from capacity loss after self‐charging cycles due to the formation of basic salts on cathodes in the near‐neutral electrolytes. Here, air self‐charging Pb/pyrene‐4,5,9,10‐tetraone (PTO) batteries based on proton chemistry are developed in acidic electrolyte. The fast kinetics of H+uptake/removal endows the battery with enhanced electrochemical performance. Owing to the high standard electrode potential of oxygen in acid electrolyte, the discharged cathodes are spontaneously oxidized by oxygen in air along with H+extraction and thus achieve self‐charging without external power supply. Notably, the air self‐charging mechanism involved H+‐based redox can effectively avoid the generation of basic salts on self‐charging electrodes and thus guarantee long‐term self‐charging/galvanostatic discharging cycles of Pb/PTO batteries. This work provides a promising strategy for designing long‐cycle air self‐charging systems.
Visualization of Protein‐Specific Glycation in Living Cells via Bioorthogonal Chemical Reporter
Authors: Shao Zhentao , Yuan Hui , Zhou Zhilan , Wang Ya , Hou Peidong , Nan Hexin , Wang Wei , Tan Weihong , Li Juan
Published: August 2022

Due to the lack of suitable chemical tools, probing the protein‐specific glycation is highly challenging. Herein, we present a strategy based on glycation chemical reporter and proximity‐induced FRET signal readout for visualizing protein‐specific glycation in living cells. We first developed a bioorthogonal glucose analogue, 6‐azido‐6‐deoxy‐D‐glucose (6AzGlc), as a novel glycation chemical reporter. Two types of DNA probes, glycation conversion probe and protein targeting probe, were designed to attach to glycation adducts and target proteins, respectively. After the protein was glycated by 6AzGlc, two DNA probes were sequentially applied to the target protein, triggering proximity‐induced FRET signal readout. This strategy was successfully used to visualize glucose glycation of several proteins, including PD‐L1 and integrin. More importantly, this strategy allowed us to analyze corresponding biological functions of glycated protein in the native environment.
Non‐Flammable Ester Electrolyte with Boosted Stability Against Li for High‐Performance Li Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Zhijie , Wang Yanyan , Li Baohua , Bouwer James C. , Davey Kenneth , Lu Jun , Guo Zaiping
Published: August 2022

In traditional non‐flammable electrolytes a trade‐off always exists between non‐flammability and battery performance. Previous research focused on reducing free solvents and forming anion‐derived solid‐electrolyte interphase. However, the contribution of solvated anions in boosting the stability of electrolyte has been overlooked. Here, we resolve this via introducing anions into Li+ solvation sheaths using anions with similar Gutmann donor number (DN) to that of solvents. Taking trimethyl phosphate fire‐retardant (DN=23.0 kcal mol−1) and NO3− (DN=22.2 kcal mol−1) as an example, NO3− is readily involved in the Li+ solvation sheath and reduces the polarity of solvent. This results in boosted stability of electrolyte against Li. The developed non‐flammable electrolyte has low viscosity, high ionic conductivity and is low cost. The reversibility of Li‐Cu cell was improved to 99.49 % and the lifespan of practical LMBs was extended by >100 %.
One‐Pot Structure‐Controlled Synthesis of Hyperbranched Polymers by a “Latent” Inimer Strategy Based on Diels–Alder Chemistry
Authors: Yang Neng , Jiang Yu , Tan Qinwen , Ma Jiahui , Zhan Dezhi , Wang Zhaohong , Wang Xin , Zhang Daohong , Hadjichristidis Nikos
Published: August 2022

An efficient “one‐pot” strategy for the structure‐controlled synthesis of hyperbranched polymers (HBPs) based on a “latent” inimer (LI‐Br), containing a furan‐protected maleimide monomer and a haloalkane initiator, is presented. At high temperatures, the “latent” inimer is converted to a “real” inimer after releasing maleimide (MI) via a retro‐Diels–Alder (r‐DA) reaction and then copolymerized with methyl methacrylate by self‐condensing vinyl copolymerization. Due to the dynamic characteristic of the r‐DA reaction, the release of naked MI and the subsequent copolymerization can be regulated by the temperature or stereochemistry of Diels–Alder (DA) adducts. Thus, the “one‐pot” structure‐controlled synthesis of HBPs with various degrees of branching was achieved. By further implementation of a programmable temperature change, some valuable hyperbranched topologies such as star‐shaped and long‐chain hyperbranched polymers can be constructed avoiding sophisticated synthetic routes.
A Wearable Biosensor for Sweat Lactate as a Proxy for Sport Performance Monitoring
Authors: Xuan Xing , Chen Chen , Pérez‐Ràfols Clara , Swarén Mikael , Wedholm Lars , Cuartero Maria , Crespo Gaston A.
Published: August 2022

In the last decade, sport performance assessment has significantly transformed due to the appearance of disruptive technologies. Subjective pen and paper notations have evolved into advanced wearable sensing systems that acquire performance‐related data. The selection of adequate performance metric variables always causes a debate in sport physiology, and this becomes more relevant once new biochemical indicators are proposed, such as sweat lactate. Here, we analyze the correlation of real‐time sweat lactate, obtained with a validated wearable biosensor, with the typical physiological parameters often recorded in sports laboratories (e. g., blood lactate, Borg scale for the rating of perceived exertion, heart rate, power output, blood glucose, and respiratory quotient). We found that the heart rate, power output, Borg scale, and blood lactate relate to sweat lactate in independent individuals during cycling activity. Hence, we demonstrate the potential to associate non‐invasive, quantitative, and personalized analysis with sport practice.
Anti‐CD63‐Oligonucleotide Functionalized Magnetic Beads for the Rapid Isolation of Small Extracellular Vesicles and Detection of EpCAM and HER2 Membrane Receptors using DARPin Probes
Authors: Yashchenok Alexey M. , Chernyshev Vasiliy S. , Konovalova Elena V. , Kholodenko Roman , Tsydenzhapova Ekaterina , Shipunova Victoria O. , Schulga Alexey A. , Deyev Sergey M. , Gorin Dmitry A.
Published: August 2022

The development of a sensitive and reliable method for the isolation and detection of pathologically relevant small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) remains a challenge. Herein we present a method for characterization of sEVs that is based on the isolation of sEVs by anti‐CD63 aptamer conjugated magnetic beads and detecting the presence of the membrane proteins on their surface using anti‐EpCAM and anti‐HER2 designed ankyrin repeat proteins (DARPins). We perform a comparative study for identification of EpCAM and HER2 surface proteins in sEVs derived from MCF7, SKOV3, MDA‐MB‐231 and CHO cell lines and blood plasma of a healthy donor. Both DRAPins show high specificity to EpCAM and HER2 receptors with a limit of detection about 104 vesicles for MCF7 and Plasma sEVs and 105 vesicles for SKOV3 sEVs. Combination of magnetic capture with highly reactive DARPin probes made it possibly to reduce total assay time to 1 h. This method provides a basis for isolating and quantifying various sEV subpopulations that contain disease specific surface‐markers.
Synthesis of poly(urea–formaldehyde) microcapsules for the self‐healing system of silicone rubber insulating material
Authors: Li Mingzhe , Cao Bin , Shang Ruiqi , Mei Hongwei , Wang Liming
Published: August 2022

Silicone rubber is used as an antipollution flashover material in outdoor insulation, which is susceptible to aging and has a shorter service life than other candidates. Microcracks are a common aging phenomenon that are difficult to be detected and repaired. The microcapsule self‐healing technology can be used to repair microcracks and extend the service life of silicone rubber. This study considers hydrogen silicone oil as a representative of the polydimethylsiloxane healing agent system. Poly(urea–formaldehyde) microcapsules containing the hydrogen silicone oil are synthesized by in situ polymerization. The effects of the emulsifier concentration, initial pH value, initial ratio of the core–shell material, and sodium chloride (NaCl) concentration on the synthesis are investigated. Accordingly, the properties of the microcapsules before and after long‐term storage are analyzed. The results demonstrate that microcapsules synthesized using poly(ethylene‐alt‐maleic anhydride) (EMA)+ polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the emulsifier have satisfactory morphology and performance, where the best synthesis conditions are 0.13 wt% EMA, 0.05 wt% PVA, initial ratio of the core–shell material of 1.5:1–2.0:1, initial pH value of 3.5–4.0, and 2 wt% NaCl. In long‐term storage, the core material is well protected by the shell material. The synthesized microcapsule can serve as a material in the self‐healing system of silicone rubber.
Invasive peacock basses (Cichla spp.) and decreased abundance of small native fish in Brazilian reservoirs
Authors: Franco Ana Clara Sampaio , Petry Ana Cristina , García‐Berthou Emili , dos Santos Luciano Neves
Published: August 2022

Peacock basses (Cichla spp.) have been introduced in impoundments for decades, and their negative impacts on the native fish fauna have been documented. However, previous studies largely focused on the overall responses of fish assemblages, often neglecting specific predator–prey interactions and the underlying effects of environmental characteristics.

Here, the effects of peacock bass introduction on the size structure (<120, 120–180 and >180 mm in total length) of fish assemblages in reservoirs of the Paraíba do Sul river basin were assessed. The abundance and time since the introduction of peacock basses were used as predictors, together with reservoir features, limnological variables and habitat composition as potential influencing factors.

Descriptors of the overall community (richness, abundance and species composition) were only marginally associated with the occurrence of peacock basses. However, small and (to a lesser extent) medium‐sized fish were adversely affected by the abundance and introduction time of peacock basses. Two pelagic native characids – namely Astyanax cf. bimaculatus and Oligosarcus hepsetus – were the most affected.

Redundancy analysis showed that reservoir age and macrophyte cover were the best predictors of fish assemblage composition. Older reservoirs and reservoirs with a higher cover of macrophytes showed a greater abundance of catfish and characids, respectively.

Peacock basses appear to affect fish assemblages through predation on small fish. Therefore, analyses of assemblages by size are recommended, as the use of overall assemblage descriptors may not be sufficient to capture the adverse effects of peacock basses. Moreover, these findings underscore the importance of conserving and restoring habitats in littoral zones, which function as refuges for native fish species in reservoirs. Further educational and management measures are warranted to prevent the spread of peacock basses to other reservoirs in Brazil.
Transient expression of NF200 by fibers in the nasal septum and rostral telencephalon of developing opossums (Monodelphis domestica)
Authors: Hour Naussicca Lakena , Cabana Thérèse , Pflieger Jean‐François
Published: August 2022

Marsupials are born very immature and crawl on their mother's belly to attach to teats. Sensory information is required to guide the newborn and to induce attachment to the teat. Olfaction has been classically proposed to influence neonatal behaviors, but recent studies suggest that the central olfactory structures are too immature to account for them. In the newborn opossum, we previously described a fascicle of nerve fibers expressing neurofilament‐200 (NF200, a marker of fiber maturity) from the olfactory bulbs to the rostral telencephalon. The course of these fibers is compatible with that of the terminal nerve that, during development, is characterized by the presence of neurons synthetizing gonadotropin hormones (GnRH). To evaluate if these fibers are related to the terminal nerve and if they play a role in precocious behaviors in opossums, we used immunohistochemistry against NF200 and GnRH. The results show that NF200‐labeled fibers are present between P0 and P11, but do not reach much further caudally than the septal region. Only a few NF200‐labeled fibers were found near the olfactory and vomeronasal epitheliums and they did not penetrate the olfactory bulbs. NF200‐labeled fibers follow the same path as fibers labeled for GnRH. In contrast to the latter, NF200‐labeled fibers are no longer visible at P15. These results suggest that these fibers are neither from the olfactory nor from the vomeronasal nerves but may be part of the terminal nerve. Their limited caudal extension does not support a role in the sensorimotor behaviors of the newborn opossum.
Pyrolysis kinetics of hydrochar using distributed activation energy model
Authors: Kamal Suprio , Hossain Shahriar , Salma Ummay , Islam Saiful , Kabir Kazi Bayzid , Kirtania Kawnish
Published: August 2022

Producing hydrochar from landfill municipal solid wastes (MSW) is a sustainable alternative to existing waste management practices in low‐ and middle‐income countries. In this study, mixed MSW feedstock (sent for landfilling) was subjected to hydrothermal carbonization to produce hydrochars. The hydrochar showing the highest heating value was subjected to pyrolysis at 5, 10, and 20 K min−1 heating rates. Based on the pyrolysis characteristics, a three pseudo‐component‐based distributed activation energy model was employed to describe the pyrolysis kinetics. The activation energy distributions for the three pseudo‐components were 140 ± 8.7 kJ mol−1, 190 ± 1 kJ mol−1 and 175.9 ± 24.9 kJ mol−1, which were able to predict the pyrolysis profile at all heating rates with R2 > 0.999. Differential thermogravimetric profiles of the hydrochar revealed its pyrolytic reactivity to resemble lignocellulosic constituents. Fourier‐transform infrared analysis of the hydrochar showed retention of oxygen‐containing functional groups (associated with lignocellulosic constituents) from the parent feedstock. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Research on target recognition and tracking in mobile augmented reality assisted maintenance
Authors: Sun Libo , Zhang Xiaokai , Qin Wenhu
Published: August 2022

The recognition and tracking of maintenance targets is the basis of augmented reality assisted maintenance. To address the problems of the current recognition and tracking algorithms, such as high time complexity, low pose tracking accuracy, and high requirements for hardware equipment, this paper studies a light weight maintenance target recognition algorithm based on YOLOv5s, and then the VI ORB‐SLAM algorithm is adopted to track the maintenance target. In addition, the ORB feature extraction and the visual inertial initialization are improved for the VI ORB‐SLAM algorithm. Finally, the combined algorithm is deployed on the mobile phone. Taking the augmented reality assisted vehicle maintenance as an example, it is verified that the proposed approach is practical feasible and effective in the actual assisted maintenance scene.
Phytocosmetic Containing Pink Pepper Extracts Obtained by Sustainable Extraction
Authors: Guzzo Silva Bruno , Caramori Cefali Letícia , de Tarso Vieira e Rosa Paulo , Franco Julia Gomes , Gava Mazzola Priscila , Frattini Fileti Ana Maria , Foglio Mary Ann
Published: August 2022

Pink pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi) has high potential for commercial use because of its biological activities (anti‐inflammatory, antitumor, and antioxidant activities, among others). Herein, the antioxidant activity of a topical formulation containing pink pepper extract obtained by supercritical carbon dioxide extraction is reported. The effects of extraction pressure (100–300 bar) and temperature (40–60 °C) on its antioxidant activity were investigated. The extracts obtained at 50–60 °C showed a higher inhibition percentage in the α,α‐diphenyl‐β‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay (80.16–91.27 %), regardless of pressure. The extract obtained under optimized conditions (200 bar and 50 °C) was incorporated into an oil‐in‐water emulsion containing 2 % (m/m) pink pepper extract. The product presented a creamy texture, light rose color, mild spicy odor, and desirable pH for a topical formulation. Furthermore, the product was stable and remained effective when stored and protected from heat and light, showing 35.38 % inhibition of DPPH.
Characteristics of wheat flour blends with water chestnut flour and effects of different temperature on frozen fermented dough
Authors: Zhang Keke , Zeng Jie , Gao Haiyan , Liu Yufen , Zhang Lin , Wang Mengyu
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives

This study investigated the effects of different substitutions of water chestnut flour (WCF) on the quality of wheat flour and fermented dough. Changes in the quality of fermented dough containing the optimum amount of WCF (10%) were analyzed after it was frozen and stored at −6°C, −12°C, −18°C, and −24°C for 15 days.

Findings

Significant changes occurred in mixolab test and the optimum addition of WCF was 10%, as reflected by the longest dough stability time, the lowest dough weakening degree, and the strongest dough thermal stability. The peak viscosity of the flour mix increased significantly and the gelatinization temperature decreased significantly with the increase of WCF addition. The fermented dough with 10% WCF had similar textural properties to the dough without WCF. After frozen storage, the hardness of fermented dough containing 10% WCF stored at −12°C, −18°C, and −24°C were significantly higher than that of the control (without frozen storage). The fermentation volumes of doughs at −12°C and −24°C were larger than that at −18°C, and the gluten network structure at −24°C remained relatively intact.

Conclusions

Frozen storage at −12°C and −24°C could maintain the texture and gluten network structure of the mixed dough containing an optimum amount of 10% WCF.

Significance and Novelty

The quality changes of fermented dough containing the optimum amount of WCF during frozen storage at different freezing temperatures were explored to provide a theoretical basis for the frozen flour products containing WCF.
Investigating diverse barley (Hordeum vulgareL.) germplasm for thermostability of β‐amylase: A key player of diastatic power
Authors: Rani Heena , Bhardwaj Rachana D. , Kaur Simarjit , Grewal Satvir K.
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives

β‐amylase plays a vital role in starch hydrolysis during mashing to obtain fermentable wort for beer production. Since starch gelatinization requires a high temperature, the catalytic activity, and thermostability of β‐amylase are crucial for obtaining high‐quality malt owing to its heat‐labile character. This study aimed to determine the variation in thermostability of β‐amylase among a diverse set of barley genotypes (hulled, hulless, mutants, and wild).

Findings

Statistical analysis indicated the significant effect of genotype and temperature on β‐amylase activity. The mutant genotypes had a wider variation for β‐amylase activity followed by hulled, hulless, and wild genotypes. The % relative residual activity was found to be the highest at 55°C for all the genotypes. Among 54 barley genotypes, PL891 (hulless) was reported to have the highest activity at all temperatures followed by BL1714 (hulled) and BL2105 (mutant) which shows the thermostable nature of β‐amylase in these genotypes. The β‐amylase activity was positively correlated with the amount of reducing sugars formed at a 1% level of significance (r = .852), further corroborating the results.

Conclusions

The β‐amylase activity declined after 55°C in the majority of the genotypes depicting its optimum temperature. Few genotypes, namely PL891, BL1714, and BL2105 had been identified that possessed high β‐amylase activity at all temperatures.

Significance and Novelty

β‐amylase with high thermostability may prove more helpful than selecting the genotype with higher β‐amylase levels if one attempts to increase the amount of fermentable sugars in the wort. Therefore, in the current study genotypes identified with high thermostability of β‐amylase may be exploited in the genetic improvement programs for incorporating beneficial traits into low malting efficiency cultivars but possessing high yield and resistance to various stresses.
Facile Construction of Zn‐Doped Mn3O4−MnO2 Vertical Nanosheets for Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Battery Cathodes
Authors: Ko Wen Yin , Lubis Andre Lammiduk , Wang Ho Ya , Wu Tung Ching , Lin Shin Ting , Lin Kuan Jiuh
Published: August 2022

Aqueous rechargeable batteries with good electrochemical performances have been considered as compelling alternatives in miniaturized energy storage units due to their small‐size, better safety, greener manufacturing condition, and easy‐to‐recycle process. Herein, a binder‐free manganese oxide (MnOx), comprising of MnO2 and Mn3O4 constructed by engineering it with zinc doping used as a cathode material for eco‐friendly aqueous Zn ion battery is developed. A green and simple electrochemical deposition synthesis of Zn‐doped Mn3O4−MnO2 nanocomposite with vertically‐oriented 3D porous cereal‐like nanosheet framework (ZnMM‐NSs) is reproducibly performed directly onto the surface of AgCNT modified Ni foam in a mild aqueous ZnSO4+MnSO4 electrolyte. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on Zn doping in Mn3O4−MnO2 nanocomposite and the subsequent device assembly for aqueous zinc‐ion batteries. Zinc doping induced electrical/ionic conductivity enhancement, along with more active sites provided by 3D porous cereal‐like nanostructures and multiple Mn valences, this ZnMM‐NSs cell can deliver a high capacity, good rate performance, and satisfying cycling stability. Also, the Zn‐doped manganese oxides are obtained by a green method, which can reduce the entire cost, the usage of toxic solvents, the consumption of energy, and the disposable by‐product, paving the way for developing cost‐effective, easy‐to‐recycle, and environmentally friendly next‐generation energy storage systems.
Electrochemically Determining Electronic Structure of ZnO Quantum Dots with Different Surface Ligands
Authors: Xian Longbin , Zhang Nanlin , Luo Zufu , Zhang Xiaolin , Yuan Chonglin , Li Xiuting
Published: August 2022

The electronic structure of quantum dots (QDs) including band edges and possible trap states is an important physical property for optoelectronic applications. The reliable determination of the energy levels of QDs remains a big challenge. Herein we employ cyclic voltammetry (CV) to determine the energy levels of three types of ZnO QDs with different surface ligands. Coupled with spectroscopic techniques, it is found that the onset potential of the first reductive wave is likely related to the conduction band edges while the first oxidative wave originates from the trap states. The determined specific energy levels in CV further demonstrates that the ZnO QDs without surface ligands mainly have oxygen interstitial defects whilst the ZnO QDs covered with ligands contain oxygen vacancies. The present electrochemical method offers a powerful and effective way to determine the energy levels of wide bandgap ZnO QDs, which will boost their device performance.
Spontaneous Synthesis of [FeII(Atrz)3]SO4 and its Analogues Through Accelerated Ageing: New Insights from Small‐Scale Reactions
Authors: Lonergan Rhona F. , Conway Georgina A. , Doheny Patrick W. , Shepherd Helena J.
Published: August 2022

Accelerated ageing reactions that take place between two solid materials on contact in the absence of added solvent have been used to synthesize two spin‐crossover‐active 1D coordination polymers and one of their Cu(II) analogues. The hygroscopy of the ligands and the relative humidity of the reaction chamber have been shown to be particularly important factors in the rate of reaction. Small‐scale reactions between a few individual crystals have allowed observation of deliquescence of the 4‐aminotriazole ligand at high humidity. The metal salt does not dissolve, and the ligand diffuses into the crystal of the metal salt during the reaction. In the case of the Cu analogue, the formation of the product causes the crystal of the metal salt to deform with the formation of pseudocrystals, which have a fibrous structure.
Substituted Cyclopentannulated Tetraazapentacenes
Authors: Maier Steffen , Heckershoff Robin , Hippchen Nikolai , Brödner Kerstin , Rominger Frank , Freudenberg Jan , Hashmi A. Stephen K. , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: August 2022

Brominated pentannulated dihydrotetraazapentacenes were prepared by gold‐ or palladium‐catalyzed 5‐endo‐digcyclization of TIPS‐ethynylated dihydrotetraazaacenes (TIPS = triisopropylsilyl). Post‐functionalization was demonstrated by Sonogashira alkynylation and Rosenmund‐von Braun cyanation. Calculations predict these species to act as n‐type semiconductors, which was verified for two derivates through characterization in organic field‐effect transistors.
Phenotypic Screening of Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) Inhibitors against Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Hassan Muhammad Murtaza , Sedighi Abootaleb , Olaoye Olasunkanmi O. , Häberli Cécile , Merz Annika , Ramos‐Morales Elizabeth , de Araujo Elvin D. , Romier Christophe , Jung Manfred , Keiser Jennifer , Gunning Patrick T.
Published: August 2022

Schistosomiasis is a prevalent yet neglected tropical parasitic disease caused by the Schistosoma genus of blood flukes. Praziquantel is the only currently available treatment, hence drug resistance poses a major threat. Recently, histone deacetylase 8 (HDAC8) selective inhibitors have been proposed as a viable treatment for schistosomiasis. Herein, we report the phenotypic screening of a focused library of small molecules of varying HDAC isozyme‐inhibition profiles, including eight HDAC8 inhibitors with >10‐fold selectivity in comparable functional inhibition assays and IC50 values against HDAC8<100 nM. HDAC8‐selective inhibitors showed the lowest potency against Schistosoma mansoni newly transformed schistosomula (NTS). Pan‐HDAC inhibitors MMH258, MMH259, and MMH373, as assessed by functional inhibition assays, with minimal or no‐observed hHDAC8 and SmHDAC8 activities, were active against both NTS (MMH258, IC50=1.5 μM; MMH259, IC50=2.3 μM) and adult S. mansoni (MMH258, IC50=2.1 μM; MMH373, IC50=3.4 μM). Our results indicate that neither hHDAC8 nor SmHDAC8 activity were directly correlated to their NTS and adult S. mansoni activities.
Switchable Polymerization: A Practicable Strategy to Produce Biodegradable Block Copolymers with Diverse Properties
Authors: Jia Yifan , Sun Zhiqiang , Hu Chenyang , Pang Xuan
Published: August 2022

With the global demand for sustainable development, there has been an increasing interest in using natural biomass as raw resources to produce sustainable polymers as an alternative to petroleum‐based polymers. Because monocomponent biodegradable polymers are often insufficient in performance, copolymers with well‐engineered block structures are synthesized to reach wide tunability. Switchable polymerization is such a practical strategy to produce biodegradable block copolymers with diverse performance. This review focus on the performance of block copolymers bearing biodegradable polymer segments produced by diverse switchable polymerization. We highlight two main segments that are critical for biodegradable block copolymers, i. e., polyester and polycarbonate, summarize the multiple characters of materials from switchable polymerization such as antibacterial, shape memory, adhesives, etc. The state‐of‐the‐art research on biodegradable block copolymers, as well as an outlook on the preparation and application of novel materials, are presented.
Assessing the Combined Public Health Impact of Pharmaceutical Interventions on Pandemic Transmission and Mortality: An Example in SARS CoV‐2
Authors: Kamal Mohamed A. , Kuznik Andreas , Qi Luyuan , Więcek Witold , Hussein Mohamed , Hassan Hazem E. , Patel Kashyap , Obadia Thomas , Toroghi Masood Khaksar , Conrado Daniela J. , Al‐Huniti Nidal , Casciano Roman , O'Brien Meagan P. , Barnabas Ruanne V. , Cohen Myron S. , Smith Patrick F.
Published: August 2022

To assess the combined role of anti‐viral monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and vaccines in reducing severe acute respiratory syndrome‐coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) transmission and mortality in the United States, an agent‐based model was developed that accounted for social contacts, movement/travel, disease progression, and viral shedding. The model was calibrated to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) mortality between October 2020 and April 2021 (aggressive pandemic phase), and projected an extended outlook to estimate mortality during a less aggressive phase (April–August 2021). Simulated scenarios evaluated mAbs for averting infections and deaths in addition to vaccines and aggregated non‐pharmaceutical interventions. Scenarios included mAbs as a treatment of COVID‐19 and for passive immunity for postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) during a period when variants were susceptible to the mAbs. Rapid diagnostic testing paired with mAbs was evaluated as an early treatment‐as‐prevention strategy. Sensitivity analyses included increasing mAb supply and vaccine rollout. Allocation of mAbs for use only as PEP averted up to 14% more infections than vaccine alone, and targeting individuals ≥ 65 years averted up to 37% more deaths. Rapid testing for earlier diagnosis and mAb use amplified these benefits. Doubling the mAb supply further reduced infections and mortality. mAbs provided benefits even as proportion of the immunized population increased. Model projections estimated that ~ 42% of expected deaths between April and August 2021 could be averted. Assuming sensitivity to mAbs, their use as early treatment and PEP in addition to vaccines would substantially reduce SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission and mortality even as vaccination increases and mortality decreases. These results provide a template for informing public health policy for future pandemic preparedness.
Identifying and managing complications caused by cosmetic neurotoxin treatment
Authors: Brown Ariel , Teller Craig
Published: August 2022

Any practitioner trained in using cosmetic botulinum toxin type A for on‐label and off‐label indications must stay informed of the possible complications from treatments. Though prevention of complications is ideal, management of adverse events, when they occur, is integral for a positive patient outcome. Major long‐term complications from botulinum toxin treatment are rarely observed because the agent eventually metabolizes after 3–4 months. As such, minor complications are more commonly observed and may be problematic in the short‐term. These complications seen from botulinum toxin can be organized into three main categories: (1) injection‐related complications, (2) complications intrinsic to the toxin's pharmacologic properties, and (3) the practitioner's injection technique in specific anatomical locations. Common injection‐related complications, such as pain, swelling, bruising, a heavy sensation, and headache, are well‐tolerated and well‐managed, though practitioners may consider implementing certain techniques to help mitigate these complications. Complications due to pharmacologic properties of botulinum toxin allow for an interesting discussion of complex topics, such as the genesis of the Black Box Warning on distant migration, potency and efficacy with storage conditions, lethal dose, diffusion, and immunogenicity. In addition, injection techniques for specific anatomical locations as well as recommendations for avoiding and managing complications at each location are discussed in detail.
Dynamics of insect communities across a unique network of hydrologically altered riparian habitats in central China
Authors: Butler Orpheus M. , Ye Chen , Zhang Quanfa
Published: August 2022

The establishment of hydroelectric dams can lead to major changes in hydrology for habitats within the reservoir drawdown zones. The Three Gorges Dam (TGD) in China is the world's largest hydroelectric facility, with a reservoir covering 1080 km2 and a drawdown zone covering 350 km2. Since the TGD's establishment in 2008, the formerly terrestrial habitats within the dam's drawdown zone have effectively been converted to riparian habitats. A strong understanding of ecological dynamics in these novel habitats is critical to their ongoing management. Given the major contribution of insects to ecosystem function and biodiversity, we surveyed riparian insect communities semi‐annually from 2011 to 2018 across a 600‐km network of 18 sites in the TGD's drawdown zone. During this period, the total abundance of insects increased 4.4‐fold, and the composition of insect communities shifted significantly, with Diptera increasingly dominant in later years. Insect abundance trajectories were coupled with concomitant changes in local climate and soil chemistry, which have in turn been brought on by the novel hydrological regime in the drawdown zone. Revegetation efforts had limited impacts on riparian insect abundances. Overall, riparian insect communities have undergone marked shifts since the TGD started operating. We cannot explicitly attribute these effects to the TGD's establishment, but our results indicate that they might have been shaped by—or are at least coupled with—the profound changes in hydrological conditions associated with the TGD's establishment.
Intestinal CD8+ tissue‐resident memory T cells: From generation to function
Authors: Cheng Liqing , Becattini Simone
Published: August 2022

Tissue‐resident memory T cells (Trm), and particularly the CD8+ subset, have been shown to play a pivotal role in protection against infections and tumors. Studies in animal models and human tissues have highlighted that, while a core functional program is shared by Trm at all anatomical sites, distinct tissues imprint unique features through specific molecular cues. The intestinal tissue is often the target of pathogens for local proliferation and penetration into the host systemic circulation, as well as a prominent site of tumorigenesis. Therefore, promoting the formation of Trm at this location is an appealing therapeutic option. The various segments composing the gastrointestinal tract present distinctive histological and functional characteristics, which may reflect on the imprinting of unique functional features in the respective Trm populations. What these features are, and whether they can effectively be harnessed to promote local and systemic immunity, is still under investigation. Here, we review how Trm are generated and maintained in distinct intestinal niches, analyzing the required molecular signals and the models utilized to uncover them. We also discuss evidence for a protective role of Trm against infectious agents and tumors. Finally, we integrate the knowledge obtained from animal models with that gathered from human studies.
Application of Pd/MWCNTs Catalyst in Ultrasound‐Assisted Catalytic Transfer of Hydrogenated Soybean Oil
Authors: Yu Dianyu , Guo Yanfei , Li Xun , Ji Xiaorui , Luo Shunian , Pan Mingzhe , Shi Yongge
Published: August 2022

To provide a new, safe, and efficient way to produce hydrogenated oils, a loaded Pd/MWCNTs catalyst is studied and applied to the catalytic transfer of soybean oil under ultrasound conditions. Pd is loaded onto multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) by impregnation, and the Pd loading is ≈0.8%. Through X‐ray diffraction analysis, it is found that the characteristic emission peaks of Pd appear at the 2θ = 40.3°, 46.7°, and 68.2° locations. Moreover, transmission electron microscopy reveals that the catalyst is uniformly dispersed and less agglomerated. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra show that Pd is successfully loaded onto MWCNTs. Pd/MWCNTs catalyst is then applied to the catalytic transfer of hydrogenated soybean oil. The results show that when ultrasonic power is 100 W, catalyst concentration is 2.0% w/w, hydrogenation temperature is 80 °C, donor concentration is 0.32 mol/50 mL H2O, the maximum hydrogenation conversion is 31.97%, and the content of trans‐fatty acid is only 1.52%. Pd/MWCNTs catalyst can be recycled for four times in catalytic hydrogenation of soybean oil, and the activity of the catalyst decreases to 78.5% at the fourth time.

Practical Application (PA): In this study, Pd is well loaded on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) by means of ultrasound. The ultrasonic assisted Pd/MWCNTs catalyst catalyzes the transfer hydrogenation of soybean oil. The hydrogenation conversion rate of soybean oil is significantly improved by this method, and the content of trans fatty acid in hydrogenated soybean oil is low. The Pd/MWCNTs can be recycled for four times as a catalyst.