bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi‐Level Bioinspired Microlattice with Broadband Sound‐Absorption Capabilities and Deformation‐Tolerant Compressive Response
Authors: Li Xinwei , Yu Xiang , Zhao Miao , Li Zhendong , Wang Zhonggang , Zhai Wei
Published: November 2022

Owing to the omnipresent noise and crash hazards, multifunctional sound‐absorbing, and deformation‐tolerant materials are highly sought‐after for practical engineering design. However, challenges lie with designing such a material. Herein, leveraging the inherent mechanical robustness of the biological cuttlebone, by introducing dissipative pores, a high‐strength microlattice is presented which is also sound‐absorbing. Its absorption bandwidth and deformation tolerance are further enhanced by introducing another level of bioinspiration, based on geometrical heterogeneities amongst the building cells. A high‐fidelity microstructure‐based model is developed to predict and optimize properties. Across a broad range of frequencies from 1000 to 6300 Hz, at a low thickness of 21 mm, the optimized microlattice displays a high experimentally measured average absorption coefficient of 0.735 with 68% of the points higher than 0.7. The absorption mechanism attributes to the resonating air frictional loss whilst its broadband characteristics attribute to the multiple resonance modes working in tandem. The heterogeneous architecture also enables the microlattice to deform with a deformation‐tolerant plateau behavior not observed in its uniform counterpart, which thereby leads to a 30% improvement in the specific energy absorption. Overall, this work presents an effective approach to the design of sound and energy‐absorbing materials by modifying state‐of‐the‐art bioinspired structures.
Rapid Gelation of Tough and Anti‐Swelling Hydrogels under Mild Conditions for Underwater Communication
Authors: Pi Menghan , Qin Shanhe , Wen Sihan , Wang Zhisen , Wang Xiaoyu , Li Min , Lu Honglang , Meng Qingdang , Cui Wei , Ran Rong
Published: November 2022

Swelling is ubiquitous for conventional hydrogels but is not favorable for many situations, especially underwater applications. In this study, an anti‐swelling and mechanically robust polyacrylic acid (PAAc)/gelatin composite hydrogel is reported with a rapid gelation process (101 s) under mild conditions via the synergy of MXene‐activated initiation and zirconium ion (Zr4+)‐induced cross‐linking, without the requirement of external energy input. The MXene is found efficient to activate the chain initiation, while the Zr4+ is prone indispensable for facilitating the cross‐linking of formed polymer chains. The resulting hydrogel exhibits integration of exceptional anti‐swelling properties and high mechanical performance at room temperature, thanks to the dense hydrogen bonds between PAAc and gelatin chains that enable an upper critical solution temperature above room temperature. Also, desirable electrical conductivity emerges in the hydrogel due to the simultaneous contribution of MXene and Zr4+, allowing stable electrical signal output of the gel upon deformation underwater. As a demonstration, an underwater communicator by harnessing the gel as a sensing module is assembled, which is capable of wirelessly delivering messages to the decoder on the ground via Morse codes. This study provides an exemplary way for the rapid gelation of tough and anti‐swelling hydrogels for durable underwater applications.
Interfacial and Interphasial Chemistry of Electrolyte Components to Invoke High‐Performance Antimony Anodes and Non‐Flammable Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Sun Qujiang , Cao Zhen , Ma Zheng , Zhang Junli , Wahyudi Wandi , Liu Gang , Cheng Haoran , Cai Tao , Xie Erqing , Cavallo Luigi , Li Qian , Ming Jun
Published: November 2022

Electrolytes play a pivotal role to determine the electrode performances in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, understanding the function of electrolyte components at the molecular scale remains elusive (e.g., salts, solvents, and additives), particularly how they arrange themselves and affect properties of the bulk, liquid‐solid interfaces, and electrolyte decomposition, rendering a bottleneck for improving the electrolytes. Herein, the function of electrolyte components is thoroughly studied, from Li+ solvation structure in the bulk electrolyte, Li+ (de‐)solvation behaviors at the electrolyte‐solid interfaces, until the formation of solid electrolyte interphase (i.e., SEI) layer on the electrodes. Furthermore, a detailed model by taking into account the effects of solvent, additive, lithium salt, and concentration on the electrochemical properties of the Li+‐solvent‐anion complex to elucidate the electrode performances are depicted. As the ultimate benefit of this study, a completely new non‐flammable ether‐based electrolyte and stabilizing the promising antimony (Sb) anodes can be designed. Remarkably, a high‐performance Sb anode that is superior to previous reports is obtained. This study provides a graphical model to unravel interfacial and interphasial behaviors of electrolyte components in LIBs, which is also significant for developing other metal‐ion batteries.
Evaluating the Impact of a Biomimetic Mechanical Environment on Cancer Invasion and Matrix Remodeling
Authors: Micalet Auxtine , Pape Judith , Bakkalci Deniz , Javanmardi Yousef , Hall Chloe , Cheema Umber , Moeendarbary Emad
Published: November 2022

The stiffness of tumors and their host tissues is much higher than most hydrogels, which are conventionally used to study in vitro cancer progression. The tumoroid assay is an engineered 3D in vitro tumor model that allows investigation of cancer cell invasion in an environment that is biomimetic in terms of extracellular matrix (ECM) composition and stiffness. Using this model, the change in matrix stiffness by epithelial colorectal cancer cells is systematically characterized by atomic force microscopy indentation tests. Less invasive epithelial cancer cells stiffen the tumor microenvironment while highly aggressive epithelial cancer cells show significant softening of the tumor microenvironment. Changes in stiffness are attributed to both cell‐generated active forces as well as ECM degradation and remodeling. The degradation is in part attributed to the enzymatic activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) as demonstrated by the significant expression of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 at both gene and protein levels. Targeting MMP activity through broad‐spectrum drug inhibition (BB‐94) reverses the changes in stiffness and also decreases cancer cell invasion. These results promote the idea of using mechano‐based cancer therapies such as MMP inhibition.
New Strategy for Promoting Vascularization in Tumor Spheroids in a Microfluidic Assay
Authors: Wan Zhengpeng , Floryan Marie A. , Coughlin Mark F. , Zhang Shun , Zhong Amy X. , Shelton Sarah E. , Wang Xun , Xu Chenguang , Barbie David A. , Kamm Roger D.
Published: November 2022

Previous studies have developed vascularized tumor spheroid models to demonstrate the impact of intravascular flow on tumor progression and treatment. However, these models have not been widely adopted so the vascularization of tumor spheroids in vitro is generally lower than vascularized tumor tissues in vivo. To improve the tumor vascularization level, a new strategy is introduced to form tumor spheroids by adding fibroblasts (FBs) sequentially to a pre‐formed tumor spheroid and demonstrate this method with tumor cell lines from kidney, lung, and ovary cancer. Tumor spheroids made with the new strategy have higher FB densities on the periphery of the tumor spheroid, which tend to enhance vascularization. The vessels close to the tumor spheroid made with this new strategy are more perfusable than the ones made with other methods. Finally, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells are perfused under continuous flow into vascularized tumor spheroids to demonstrate immunotherapy evaluation using vascularized tumor‐on‐a‐chip model. This new strategy for establishing tumor spheroids leads to increased vascularization in vitro, allowing for the examination of immune, endothelial, stromal, and tumor cell responses under static or flow conditions.
A Noble‐Metal‐Free Spintronic System with Proximity‐Enhanced Ferromagnetic Topological Surface State of FeSi above Room Temperature
Authors: Hori Tomohiro , Kanazawa Naoya , Hirayama Motoaki , Fujiwara Kohei , Tsukazaki Atsushi , Ichikawa Masakazu , Kawasaki Masashi , Tokura Yoshinori
Published: November 2022

Strongly spin–orbit coupled states at metal interfaces, topological insulators, and 2D materials enable efficient electric control of spin states, offering great potential for spintronics. However, there are still materials challenges to overcome, including the integration into advanced silicon electronics and the scarce resources of constituent heavy elements of those materials. Through magneto‐transport measurements and first‐principles calculations, here robust spin–orbit coupling (SOC)‐induced properties of a ferromagnetic topological surface state in FeSi and their controllability via hybridization with adjacent materials are demonstrated. In comparison to the case of its naturally oxidized surface, the ferromagnetic transition temperature is greatly increased beyond room temperature and the effective SOC strength is almost doubled at the surface in proximity to a wide‐bandgap fluoride insulator. Those enhanced magnetic properties enable room‐temperature magnetization switching, being applicable to spin–orbit torque based spintronic devices. Realization of strong SOC in the noble‐metal‐free silicon‐based compound will accelerate spintronic applications.
Tailoring Poly(Styrene‐co‐maleic anhydride) Networks for All‐Polymer Dielectrics Exhibiting Ultrahigh Energy Density and Charge–Discharge Efficiency at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Pan Zizhao , Li Li , Wang Lina , Luo Guangfu , Xu Xinwei , Jin Fei , Dong Jiufeng , Niu Yujuan , Sun Liang , Guo Chuanfei , Zhang Wenqing , Wang Qing , Wang Hong
Published: November 2022

Polymer film capacitors have been widely used in electronics and electrical power systems due to their advantages of high power densities, fast charge–discharge speed, and great stability. However, the exponential increase of electrical conduction with temperature and applied electric field substantially degrades the capacitive performance of dielectric polymers at elevated temperatures. Here, the first example of controlling the energy level of charge traps in all‐organic crosslinked polymers by tailoring molecular structures that significantly inhibit high‐field high‐temperature conduction loss, which largely differs from current approaches based on the introduction of inorganic fillers, is reported. The polymer network with optimized crosslinking structures exhibits an ultrahigh discharged energy density of 7.02 J cm−3 with charge/discharge efficiencies of >90% at 150 °C, far outperforming current dielectric polymers and composites. The charge‐trapping effects in different crosslinked structures, as the origins of the marked improvements in the high‐temperature capacitive performance, are comprehensively investigated experimentally and confirmed computationally. Moreover, excellent cyclability and self‐healing features are demonstrated in the polymer film capacitors. This work offers a promising pathway of molecular structure design to scalable high‐energy‐density polymer dielectrics capable of operating under harsh environments.
Emerging 2D Metal Oxides: From Synthesis to Device Integration
Authors: Zhou Kui , Shang Gang , Hsu Hsiao‐Hsuan , Han Su‐Ting , Roy Vellaisamy A. L. , Zhou Ye
Published: November 2022

2D metal oxides have aroused increasing attention in the field of electronics and optoelectronics due to their intriguing physical properties. In this review, an overview of recent advances on synthesis of 2D metal oxides and their electronic applications is presented. First, the tunable physical properties of 2D metal oxides that relate to the structure (various oxidation‐state forms, polymorphism, etc.), crystallinity and defects (anisotropy, point defects, and grain boundary), and thickness (quantum confinement effect, interfacial effect, etc.) are discussed. Then, advanced synthesis methods for 2D metal oxides besides mechanical exfoliation are introduced and classified into solution process, vapor‐phase deposition, and native oxidation on a metal source. Later, the various roles of 2D metal oxides in widespread applications, i.e., transistors, inverters, photodetectors, piezotronics, memristors, and potential applications (solar cell, spintronics, and superconducting devices) are discussed. Finally, an outlook of existing challenges and future opportunities in 2D metal oxides is proposed.
Unraveling the Stretch‐Induced Microstructural Evolution and Morphology–Stretchability Relationships of High‐Performance Ternary Organic Photovoltaic Blends
Authors: Peng Zhongxiang , Xian Kaihu , Liu Junwei , Zhang Yaowen , Sun Xiaokang , Zhao Wenchao , Deng Yunfeng , Li Xiuhong , Yang Chunming , Bian Fenggang , Geng Yanhou , Ye Long
Published: November 2022

The stretchability and stretch‐induced structural evolution of organic solar cells (OSCs) are pivotal for their collapsible, portable, and wearable applications, and they are mainly affected by the complex morphology of active layers. Herein, a highly ductile conjugated polymer P(NDI2OD‐T2) is incorporated into the active layers of high‐efficiency OSCs based on nonfullerene small molecule acceptors to simultaneously investigate the morphological, mechanical, and photovoltaic properties and structural evolution under stretching of ternary blend films with various acceptor contents. The structural robustness of the blend films is indicated by their stretch‐induced structural evolution, which is monitored in real‐time by a combination of in situ wide/small angle X‐ray scattering. It is found that adding the soft P(NDI2OD‐T2) can enhance the stretchability and structural robustness of ternary blend films by more entangled chains and tie chains to dissipate strain. Furthermore, the stretchability of the ternary blends can be superbly predicted by a 3D equivalent box model. This work provides instructive insight and guidance for designing stretchable electronics and predicting the stretchability of multicomponent blends.
Highly Efficient Flexocatalysis of Two‐Dimensional Semiconductors
Authors: Wu Tong , Liu Kang , Liu Shuhai , Feng Xiaolong , Wang Xuefeng , Wang Longfei , Qin Yong , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: November 2022

Catalysis is vitally important for chemical engineering, energy, and environment. It is critical to discover new mechanisms for efficient catalysis. For piezoelectric/pyroelectric/ferroelectric materials that have a non‐centrosymmetric structure, interfacial polarization‐induced redox reactions at surfaces leads to advanced mechanocatalysis. Here, the first flexocatalysis for 2D centrosymmetric semiconductors, such as MnO2 nanosheets, is demonstrated largely expanding the polarization‐based‐mechanocatalysis to 2D centrosymmetric materials. Under ultrasonic excitation, the reactive species are created due to the strain‐gradient‐induced flexoelectric polarization in MnO2 nanosheets composed nanoflowers. The organic pollutants (Methylene Blue et al.) can be effectively degraded within 5 min; the performance of the flexocatalysis is comparable to that of state‐of‐the‐art piezocatalysis, with excellent stability and reproducibility. Moreover, the factors related to flexocatalysis such as material morphology, adsorption, mechanical vibration intensity, and temperature are explored, which give deep insights into the mechanocatalysis. This study opens the field of flexoelectric effect‐based mechanochemistry in 2D centrosymmetric semiconductors.
High‐Performance Internal Ion‐Gated Organic Electrochemical Transistors for High‐Frequency Bioimpedance Analysis
Authors: Yeung Sin Yu , Veronica Asmita , Li Yue , Hsing I‐Ming
Published: November 2022

Internal ion‐gated organic electrochemical transistor (IGT) demonstrates volume‐dependent transconductance with the unprecedented advantages of high speed and self‐(de)doping capability among ion‐based transistors. The novel characteristics have albeit rendered IGT a promising platform for integrated bioelectronics, its potential in high‐frequency applications has yet been fully harnessed. Moreover, a study from a material's point of view is especially needed for this recently emerged platform as the necessity of maintaining the internal ion reservoir has posed difficulties in processing hydrated poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with poly(styrene sulphonate) (PEDOT:PSS) with electronically favorable morphologies. Herein, a comprehensive investigation of the structural and functional properties of ion‐embedded PEDOT:PSS modified by different annealing temperatures is performed and correlated to the IGT performance. A short‐time high‐temperature annealing treatment is found effective in facilitating the formation of compact microstructures without significantly influencing film hydration. The structural improvement enhances the film's conductivity and hole mobility, with the corresponding IGTs exhibiting higher gain, higher conductance, and high cut‐off frequency consistently in a batch. This study also successfully demonstrates the first use of electrochemical transistors like IGTs in high‐frequency applications through proof‐of‐concept experiments simulating fluid estimation in 50 kHz bioimpedance analysis. This work contributes to the development of high‐performance IGTs for extensive biological applications.
Quantum Dots for Pathogenic Bacterial Monitoring and Combating
Authors: Liu Yuting , Zhang Hongbo , Xu Yuanhong
Published: November 2022

Antibiotic resistance and pathogenic bacterial monitoring are two main challenges in clinical diagnostics and treatment of bacteria. To conquer those issues, many new materials and novel technologies are explored. Among them, quantum dots (QDs) are regarded as not only powerful bacteriostatic agents, but also bacterial monitoring probes due to their excellent photoluminescence properties, tunable multiwavelength luminescence, and capability in reactive oxygen species‐generation. While, till now, no systematic and critical review has been published in this related research area. This review paper aims at summarization and review of the monitoring and combating of pathogenic bacteria utilizing QDs (mainly in the recent five years), in view of their classification, modification, mechanism, and application. Semiconductor QDs, transmission‐metal‐based QDs, carbon‐based QDs, and silicon‐based QDs are mainly covered in this review. Moreover, a thorough discussion on the possible interaction mechanism between bacteria and QDs is given, which will contribute to the designing of QDs for novel and high‐efficient bacterial monitoring and combating applications. Eventually, the current challenges and the future research focus of QDs in bacterial monitoring and combating are proposed. This review will be of significance for the related field to understand the designing principles of QDs for pathogenic bacterial monitoring and combating applications.
Broadband and High‐Sensitivity Photodetector Based on BiFeO3/Si Heterojunction
Authors: Lei Lin , Liu Lin , Lu Xiaomei , Yan Shuo , Hu Xueli , He Jiayi , Huang Fengzhen
Published: November 2022

Photovoltaic devices based on ferroelectric materials have broad application prospects; however, there are also problems of narrow bandwidth and low sensitivity. In this paper, polycrystalline BiFeO3 (BFO) films are prepared directly on n‐Si (100) substrates to form ferroelectric/semiconductor heterostructures, the electrical response of which under weak light intensity (0.8 W m−2) is systematically investigated. Accompanied by the dielectric relaxation originated from photocarriers, the polarization of BFO increases while the coercive voltage decreases. Especially, current–voltage (I–V) curve under negative bias voltage changes obviously with illumination, and cyclically switchable photocurrent is detected at 0 V bias, with the on‐off ratio increasing for lower temperature. Although the photoresponse is detectable in the broad wavelength range of 275–1100 nm, it is more pronounced for visible light. It is considered that the built‐in electric field of the PN junction at the BFO/n‐Si interface drives the separation and migration of photocarriers, which in turn affects the interface barrier and the distribution of monovalent oxygen vacancies () in BFO while producing the photovoltaic effect. This work provides an effective route for developing photodetectors with high sensitivity and broadband detection.
Photocatalytic Functionalization of Dihydroquinoxalin‐2‐Ones with Pyrazolones
Authors: Rostoll‐Berenguer Jaume , Sierra‐Molero Francisco J. , Blay Gonzalo , Pedro José R. , Vila Carlos
Published: November 2022

A visible‐light photoredox functionalization of 3,4‐dihydro‐quinoxalin‐2‐ones with pyrazolones using an inexpensive organophotoredox catalyst is described. The reaction uses 9,10‐phenanthrenedione as photocatalyst, a very simple and cheap photocatalyst, a HP single Blue LED (455 nm) as visible‐light source and oxygen from air as terminal oxidant, obtaining the corresponding acetylated pyrazoles with good yields. The reaction can be extended to other nitrogen heterocycles such as 5‐aminopyrazoles with good results.

magnified image
Silica islands regulated external Ti‐site environment of TS‐1 for enhanced performance of 1‐hexene epoxidation
Authors: Yuan Juncong , Fu Ranfei , Fan Lunrui , Dong Yaqi , Zong Ze , Kang Hui , Yan Hao , Liu Yibin , Zhang Xingong , Zhao Guanghui , Deng Xuliang , Zhang Yongjun , Liu Jincheng , Yang Chaohe , Shan Honghong , Chen De , Feng Xiang
Published: November 2022

Rational regulation of the local environment of Ti‐sites in TS‐1 harbors tremendous industrial and scientific significance to epoxidation reactions. Herein, we report a facile and environment‐friendly strategy to boost catalytic selectivity by covering the Ti‐sites on an external surface of TS‐1 (ITS‐1) without sacrificing activity of internal Ti sites. By a quantitative analysis of d3‐acetonitrile and quinoline‐DRIFTS, 1H MAS NMR and XPS, it is found that the percentage of external Ti‐sites decreased from 11% to 6% after depositing surface silica islands. This successfully inhibits ring‐opening reaction of 1,2‐epoxyhexane on catalyst surface, as demonstrated by slower kinetic decomposition rate of 1,2‐epoxyhexane. Compared with conventional TS‐1 catalyst, selectivity of 1,2‐epoxyhexane over ITS‐1 catalyst significantly increased from 83.5% to 98.5% while maintaining high 1‐hexene conversion. Furthermore, overmuch surface silica coverage only leads to extremely low conversion (2%) due to inhibition of mass transfer. This work paves the way for rational construction of Ti‐containing catalysts for 1‐hexene epoxidation.
Surface modification of electron transport layers based on TiO2 nanorod boosts efficiency of perovskite solar cells
Authors: Nguyen Minh Hai , Yoon Sang‐Hyeok , Kim Kyo‐Seon
Published: November 2022

In this work, TiO2 heterostructure thin films including rutile TiO2 nanorods (TNRs) and anatase TiO2 nanoparticles (TNPs) on fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO) glass are fabricated by the hydrothermal method and are applied as electron transport layers (ETLs) in MAPbI3‐based perovskite solar cells (PSCs). To enhance the surface area of ETL, TNRs are first etched in acidic solution by another hydrothermal process for different reaction times before coating with TNPs. The morphological and structural properties of TNRs after etching are carefully investigated. Interestingly, the surface modification of TNR thin film by appropriate TNP deposition and etching improves significantly the efficiency of PSC devices by more than 1.6 times. To further improve the performance of PSC, phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) is used to enhance the charge transfer efficiency at the ETL/perovskite interface, and the optimal PSC device shows the champion efficiency of 18.50% with low charge transfer resistance (11.56 ohms).
SCAF4‐related syndromic intellectual disability
Authors: Carvalho Laura Machado Lara , Pinto Carla Franchi , de Oliveira Scliar Marília , Otto Paulo A. , Krepischi Ana Cristina Victorino , Rosenberg Carla
Published: November 2022

The causal link between variants in the SCAF4 gene and a syndromic form of intellectual disability (ID) was established in 2020 by Fliedner et al. Since then, no additional cases have been reported. We performed exome sequencing in a 16‐year‐old Brazilian male presenting with ID, epilepsy, behavioral problems, speech impairment, facial dysmorphisms, heart malformations, and obesity. A de novo pathogenic variant [SCAF4(NM_020706.2):c.374_375dup(p.Glu126LeufsTer20)] was identified. This is the second study reporting the involvement of SCAF4 in syndromic ID, and the description of the patient's clinical features contributes to defining the phenotypic spectrum of this recently described Mendelian disorder.
A severe clinicopathologic phenotype of RAF1Ser257Leu neomutation in a preterm infant without cardiac anomaly
Authors: Darouich Sihem , Chakroun Ahmed Sahbi , Bellamine Houda , Khamassi Ichrak
Published: November 2022

Phenotype analysis of the Noonan syndrome (NS) related to RAF1 mutations demonstrates that a high proportion of cases exhibit severe lymphatic dysplasia and congenital heart disease, especially hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Because of the difficulty of fetal phenotypic assessment, the percentage of cases with multisystemic prenatal presentation as well as the phenotypic variability may be underestimated. We describe a 35 weeks male preterm infant presenting with de novo missense mutation NM_002880.4(RAF1):c.770C>T (p.Ser257Leu), whose death occurred following birth. Antenatal ultrasound showed polyhydramnios, severe ascites, and tongue protrusion. Autopsy revealed multiple congenital anomalies including intrauterine growth restriction, hydrops fetalis, characteristic facial dysmorphia, short and webbed neck, hypertrichosis, severe lungs hypoplasia, thymic hyperplasia, hepato‐splenomegaly, bilateral mild uretero‐hydronephrosis, and mild pontocerebellar hypoplasia. Histology revealed increased hepatic hematopoiesis and iron deposits. This report confirms that NS may be associated with multisystem involvement and provides further evidence for the wide phenotypic variability associated with RAF1 variants.
Polyethylene with MoS2 nanoparticles toward antibacterial active packaging
Authors: Castillo Pedro , Goñi‐Ciaurriz Leire , Olate‐Moya Felipe , Bastías Roberto , Farias Sara , Palza Humberto
Published: November 2022

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanoparticles, obtained from liquid phase exfoliation in the presence of chitosan, were melt mixed with a linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) matrix to produce novel antimicrobial active packaging materials. The LLDPE/MoS2 composites presented exfoliated nanoparticles forming aggregates that are well dispersed in the polymer matrix. These 2D‐layered MoS2 nanoparticles at concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, and 3.0 wt% rendered several functionalities to the LLDPE, as for example an antimicrobial behavior against Salmonella typhi and Listeria monocytogenes bacteria that can be explained not only by the photoactivity of the filler but also by changes in the composite surface. For instance, the composites presented a reduction in the water contact angle (i.e., an increased hydrophilicity) and relevant changes in the surface topography (i.e., reduced roughness) as compared with pure LLDPE. Regarding the barrier properties, while MoS2 dramatically increased the water vapor permeation (WVP) of the polymer matrix, until 15 times for composite with 3.0 wt% of filler, the oxygen permeation decreased around 25%. All these novel functionalities in the nanocomposites were obtained without significantly affecting the tensile mechanical properties of the pure LLDPE matrix. These results show that MoS2 is a promising filler for the development of antibacterial active packaging films with behaviors as similar as other 2D‐layered fillers such as graphene derivatives.
Preparation and derivation mechanism of methyl methacrylate/nitrile butadiene rubber/graphene oxide composites by ball‐milling
Authors: Wang Xinlei , Wang Bo , Wei Shicheng , Zhu Xiaoying , Wang Yujiang , Liang Yi , Guo Lei , Lu Fangjie , Xu Binshi
Published: November 2022

Methyl methacrylate/nitrile butadiene rubber/graphene oxide (MMA/NBR/GO) composite materials were prepared by ball‐milling based on the mechano‐chemical principle. The effects of some key process parameters, such as graphene oxide (GO) content, ball‐to‐powder ratio (BPR), and ball‐milling time on textures and structures of MMA/NBR/GO composite materials were studied systematically by Zeta potentials, Raman spectroscopy, Thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, and the derivation mechanism was examined. The results indicated composite materials with excellent dispersion stability at GO content of 0.3%, BPR of 3.87, and ball‐milling time of 5 h, the value of sedimentation rate is only 1.0%, the Zeta potential is −41.5 mV, and the mass loss ratio is 40.36%. FT‐IR result shows that the intensity of the characteristic peak all decreases after ball milling, and carboxyl group of GO and hydroxyl group connected to the benzene ring is broken. The graft position is CN and CH2 of NBR, and CH3 of MMA. Under these conditions, the oxygen‐containing functional groups of GO were successfully grafted onto the MMA and NBR.
Mechanical, rheological, and crystallinity properties of polylactic acid/polyethylene glycol‐polydimethylsiloxane copolymer blends by melt blending
Authors: Shi Wenying , Chen Zhize
Published: November 2022

Polylactic acid (PLA) is high in strength and modulus, but its applications are limited partly due to its inherent brittleness. It is difficult to keep the toughness and transparency of modified PLA without damaging its tensile strength and crystallinity. To improve the properties of PLA, polyethylene glycol‐polydimethylsiloxane copolymer (PEG‐PDMS) was incorporated to PLA via melt blending. By incorporating only 5 wt% of PEG‐PDMS into PLA matrix, the elongation at break of the blends increased from 6% to 58% and the tensile strength was found to be 48.8 MPa. Differential scanning calorimetry demonstrated that the crystallinity of PLA/5%PEG‐PDMS blends reached 33.5%. At the same time, the energy storage modulus (G) and complex viscosity (η*) of the blends had been improved. UV–vis test showed the light transmittance of the PLA/5%PEG‐PDMS blends was slightly decreased. The toughened materials are sufficient to cope with the challenges brought by complex environments, achieving an efficient toughening effect.
Altered global modular organization of intrinsic functional connectivity in autism arises from atypical node‐level processing
Authors: Sigar Priyanka , Uddin Lucina Q. , Roy Dipanjan
Published: November 2022

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by restricted interests and repetitive behaviors as well as social‐communication deficits. These traits are associated with atypicality of functional brain networks. Modular organization in the brain plays a crucial role in network stability and adaptability for neurodevelopment. Previous neuroimaging research demonstrates discrepancies in studies of functional brain modular organization in ASD. These discrepancies result from the examination of mixed age groups. Furthermore, recent findings suggest that while much attention has been given to deriving atlases and measuring the connections between nodes, within node information may also be crucial in determining altered modular organization in ASD compared with typical development (TD). However, altered modular organization originating from systematic nodal changes are yet to be explored in younger children with ASD. Here, we used graph‐theoretical measures to fill this knowledge gap. To this end, we utilized multicenter resting‐state fMRI data collected from 5 to 10‐year‐old children—34 ASD and 40 TD obtained from the Autism Brain Image Data Exchange (ABIDE) I and II. We demonstrate that alterations in topological roles and modular cohesiveness are the two key properties of brain regions anchored in default mode, sensorimotor, and salience networks, and primarily relate to social and sensory deficits in children with ASD. These results demonstrate that atypical global network organization in children with ASD arises from nodal role changes, and contribute to the growing body of literature suggesting that there is interesting information within nodes providing critical markers of functional brain networks in autistic children.
The effects of a self‐management treatment package on daily step count in university students with depressive symptoms
Authors: Munno Reghann K. , Thomson Kendra M. , Zonneveld Kimberley L. M.
Published: November 2022

Research demonstrates that exercise can decrease depressive symptoms, yet it is infrequently prescribed as an intervention. Self‐management techniques offer an effective and cost‐efficient approach to increase engagement in physical activity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of goal setting, self‐monitoring, and feedback for increasing daily step count in university students (N = 4) reporting depressive symptoms. The treatment was efficacious for increasing steps for three participants with varying levels of consistency. All participants showed a decrease in some depression symptoms on the University Student Depression Inventory. Expert ratings on the Clinical Global Impression Scale indicated improvement in global functioning for three participants. Additional research is needed to determine the efficacy of this intervention package for increasing daily steps and the relation to depression symptoms.
How does green digitalization affect environmental innovation? The moderating role of institutional forces
Authors: Guo Qiaozhe , Geng Chengxuan , Yao Nengzhi(Chris)
Published: November 2022

Environmental innovation is essential to achieving environmental and economic sustainability. This study aims to explain whether and under what conditions green digitalization may foster firm environmental innovation. Using a database of Chinese listed firms matched with provincial‐level digitalization information from 2012 to 2018, we find that green digitalization significantly increases environmental innovation, and this effect can be achieved through enhancing R&D investment. In addition, the positive effect of green digitalization on environmental innovation is moderated by formal and informal institutional forces. We establish government support (in the form of financial investment in building digital infrastructure), government intervention, and cyberculture as the theoretically important moderators. Our findings contribute to digitalization research, institutional theory, and the literature on environmental innovation and provide important practical implications for managers and policymakers seeking to improve environmental sustainability through digital transformation.
The facts about pornography use in teens
Authors: Nesi Jacqueline
Published: November 2022

Recent estimates suggest that 95% of U.S. adolescents have access to a smartphone, and nearly half (46%) report using the Internet “almost constantly” (Pew Research Center, 2022). The near ubiquity of digital devices among adolescents has numerous benefits, including increased availability of social support, opportunities for creative expression, and access to information. However, the changing digital landscape has also created new challenges for teens and families, including the prevalence and accessibility of online pornography.
Tweaking the Optoelectronic Properties of S‐Doped Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons by Chemical Oxidation
Authors: Matuszewska Oliwia , Battisti Tommaso , Ferreira Ruben R. , Biot Nicolas , Demitri Nicola , Mézière Cécile , Allain Magali , Sallé Marc , Mañas‐Valero Samuel , Coronado Eugenio , Fresta Elisa , Costa Rubén D. , Bonifazi Davide
Published: November 2022

Peri‐thiaxanthenothiaxanthene, an S‐doped analog ofperi‐xanthenoxanthene, is used as a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) scaffold to tune the molecular semiconductor properties by editing the oxidation state of the S‐atoms. Chemical oxidation of peri‐thiaxanthenothiaxanthene with H2O2led to the relevant sulfoxide and sulfone congeners, whereas electrooxidation gave access to sulfonium‐type derivatives forming crystalline mixed valence (MV) complexes. These complexes depicted peculiar molecular and solid‐state arrangements with face‐to‐face π–π stacking organization. Photophysical studies showed a widening of the optical bandgap upon progressive oxidation of the S‐atoms, with the bis‐sulfone derivative displaying the largest value (E00=2.99 eV). While peri‐thiaxanthenothiaxanthene showed reversible oxidation properties, the sulfoxide and sulfone derivatives mainly showed reductive events, corroborating theirn‐type properties. Electric measurements of single crystals of the MV complexes exhibited a semiconducting behavior with a remarkably high conductivity at room temperature (10−1–10−2 S cm−1and 10−2–10−3 S cm−1for the O and S derivatives, respectively), one of the highest reported so far. Finally, the electroluminescence properties of the complexes were tested in light‐emitting electrochemical cells (LECs), obtaining the first S‐doped mid‐emitting PAH‐based LECs.
Data‐driven variational multiscale reduced order modeling of vaginal tissue inflation
Authors: Snyder William , McGuire Jeffrey A. , Mou Changhong , Dillard David A. , Iliescu Traian , De Vita Raffaella
Published: November 2022

The vagina undergoes large finite deformations and has complex geometry and microstructure, resulting in material and geometric nonlinearities, complicated boundary conditions, and nonhomogeneities within finite element (FE) simulations. These nonlinearities pose a significant challenge for numerical solvers, increasing the computational time by several orders of magnitude. Simplifying assumptions can reduce the computational time significantly, but this usually comes at the expense of simulation accuracy. This study proposed the use of reduced order modeling (ROM) techniques to capture experimentally measured displacement fields of rat vaginal tissue during inflation testing in order to attain both the accuracy of higher‐fidelity models and the speed of simpler simulations. The proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) method was used to extract the significant information from FE simulations generated by varying the luminal pressure and the parameters that introduce the anisotropy in the selected constitutive model. A new data‐driven (DD) variational multiscale (VMS) ROM framework was extended to obtain the displacement fields of rat vaginal tissue under pressure. For comparison purposes, we also investigated the classical Galerkin ROM (G‐ROM). In our numerical study, both the G‐ROM and the DD‐VMS‐ROM decreased the FE computational cost by orders of magnitude without a significant decrease in numerical accuracy. Furthermore, the DD‐VMS‐ROM improved the G‐ROM accuracy at a modest computational overhead. Our numerical investigation showed that ROM has the potential to provide efficient and accurate computational tools to describe vaginal deformations, with the ultimate goal of improving maternal health.
Taylor political monarch butterfly optimization driven deep learning model for acute lymphoblastic leukemia detection and severity classification using blood smear images
Authors: Mercy Bai Gnana Prakasam , Perumal Venkadesh
Published: November 2022

An image processing and classification become an exciting research region for indicative probe because of the expansion of digital microscopic imaging. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is caused owing to broken in bone marrow, which is general among the people around the biosphere. A leukemia generally affects blood creating organs and hence, easily spread to other tissues by blood. The hematologists afflict more to differentiate leukemia existence in body of patients based on blood smears. Hence, in this article, Taylor political monarch butterfly optimization‐enabled deep residual neural network (Taylor PMBO‐enabled DRN) is devised for ALL classification. Segmentation is the process of separating the images into small pixels. A deep joint segmentation model effectively enhances the detection accuracy and it has better segmentation capability. For a better classification procedure, the important features, such as statistical, texture, and grid features, are extracted. For ALL detection and classification processes, a deep residual neural network (DRN) classifier is trained by the Taylor PMBO. The devised Taylor PMBO‐based DRN model obtained better performance than other method by testing accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, F1‐score, and precision of 0.9656, 0.9666, 0.9709, 0.9280, and 0.9321.
Unraveling phenotypic diversity in Cynodon spp. germplasm for forage accumulation and nutritive value in the transition zone
Authors: de Souza Cleber H. L. , Fernandes Filho Claudio C. , Canny Raquel S. , Sharma Normal , Saha Malay , Wallau Marcelo O. , Anderson William , Baxter Lisa , Harris‐Shultz Karen , Rios Esteban F.
Published: November 2022

Characterizing phenotypic variation in germplasm collections is crucial for plant breeding. Cynodon spp. accessions maintained at the USDA National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS), and the core forage collection were screened in a replicated trial under two nitrogen rates (0 and 150 kg ha−1 per harvest) in Ardmore, OK. The goals for this study were to: (a) estimate genetic parameters for forage accumulation (FA) and nutritive value (NV), (b) estimate genotype × harvest (rgh) and genotype × environment (rge) interaction for all traits, (c) quantify FA and NV for commercial cultivars and selected accessions. The experiment was setup as a row‐column design with two replicates and augmented representation of controls: Tifton 85, Wrangler, Midland, and Cheyenne. The trial was harvested five times (twice in 2016 and three times in 2017) and data were analyzed using linear mixed models. Genetic parameters revealed the presence of significant phenotypic variation for FA and NV. Low genotype × harvest and genotype × environment interactions indicated genotypic stability and potential for selecting improved accessions for FA and NV. Several plant introductions (PIs) were identified for their improved FA and NV. The application of N increased FA and CP concentration in all harvests but did not significantly impact phenotypic variation in other NV traits. Phenotypic data will be deposited in the Germplasm Resource Information Network (GRIN)‐Global database.
Design and analysis of Hermite function‐based artificial neural network controller for performance enhancement of photovoltaic‐integrated grid system
Authors: Rai Kanchan Bala , Kumar Narendra , Singh Alka
Published: November 2022

This article proposes a Hermite function‐based artificial neural network (HeANN) controller for shunt compensation in photovoltaic (PV) interfaced grid system. Various power quality (PQ) issues such as load change, poor power factor, reactive power demand and current harmonics are experienced by
distribution system. The proposed HeANN algorithm is utilized to improve the PQ issues of the distribution system. Shunt active power filter (SAPF) is operated in current control mode and injects the compensating current at the point of common coupling (PCC). The inverter is connected with the green energy resource, that is, PV at its direct current terminals and contributes its power to fulfil the load active power demand. The parameters of HeANN are trained in real time. A prototype hardware of SAPF is developed using sensor circuits and space 1104. The simulation results are validated by experimental results. The comparative analysis of the results establishes the superiority of the proposed control technique to other control techniques such as synchronous reference frame, second order generalized integrator and back propagation neural network in terms of convergence, computational burden and total harmonic distortion of grid current.
Single‐cell and spatial transcriptomics reveal the fibrosis‐related immune landscape of biliary atresia
Authors: Ye Chunjing , Zhu Jiajie , Wang Junfeng , Chen Deqian , Meng Lingdu , Zhan Yong , Yang Ran , He Shiwei , Li Zifeng , Dai Shuyang , Li Yi , Sun Song , Shen Zhen , Huang Yanlei , Dong Rui , Chen Gong , Zheng Shan
Published: November 2022

Background

Biliary atresia (BA) is a devastating inflammatory and fibrosing cholangiopathy of neonates with unknown aetiology. We aim to investigate the relationship between these two main characteristics.

Methods

Single‐cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics were performed on liver samples from a cohort of 14 objects (BA: n = 6; control: n = 8). We conducted data integration and cell‐type annotation based on gene expression profiling. Furthermore, we identified fibrosis‐related immune cells according to their spatial locations, GO and KEGG analysis. Finally, SPOTlight and CIBERSORTx were used to deconvolute ST data and microarray data of the GSE46960 cohorts, respectively.

Results

Immune subpopulations inhabiting the ‘fibrotic niche’ (areas of scarring), comprising ‘intermediate’ CD14++CD16+ monocytes, scar‐associated macrophages, natural killer T cells, transitional B cells and FCN3+ neutrophils were identified. GO and KEGG analyses showed that pathways including ‘positive regulation of smooth muscle cell/fibroblast proliferation’ and ‘positive regulation of/response to VEGFR/VEGF/EGFR/FGF’ were enriched in these cell types. Interactions analysis showed that communication among ‘FGF_FGFR’, ‘RPS19‐C5AR1’, ‘CD74_COPA/MIF/APP’ and ‘TNFRSF1A/B_GRN’ was extensive. Finally, the results of deconvolution for ST data and microarray data validated that the proportions of certain identified fibrosis‐related cell types we identified were increased in BA.

Discussion

Fibrosis is an important feature of BA, in which the immune system plays an important role. Our work reveals the subpopulations of immune cells enriched in the fibrotic niche of BA liver, as well as key related pathways and molecules; some are highlighted for the first time in liver fibrosis. These newly identified interactions might partly explain why the rate of liver fibrosis occurs much faster in BA than in other liver diseases.

Conclusion

Our study revealed the molecular, cellular and spatial immune microenvironment of the fibrotic niche of BA.