bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of pH on the Performance of Bi2O2CO3 Nanoplates for Methylene Blue Removal in Water by Adsorption and Photocatalysis
Authors: Nguyen Trung Thanh , Le Tri Thich , Nguyen Thi Bao Tran , Thi Thuy Nguyen , Tran Le Ba , Nguyen Thi Quynh Anh , Nguyen Nhat Huy
Published: March 2022

In this study, a facile low-temperature hydrothermal method was applied for the synthesis of bismuth subcarbonate nanoplates (Bi2O2CO3). The material was then characterized by FTIR, XRD, SEM, BET, and TGA. The applicability of Bi2O2CO3 was evaluated via the treatment of methyl blue (MB) in water by adsorption and photocatalytic degradation. The experiment results with different pH from 2 to 12 indicate that the pH of the solution affected the surface charge of the synthesized Bi2O2CO3, thus having strong effects on the adsorption and photocatalytic degradation abilities of Bi2O2CO3 for MB removal. In adsorption tests, pH 6–7 is the most suitable condition for the adsorption of Bi2O2CO3. In photocatalytic tests, Bi2O2CO3 had the highest and lowest efficiencies of 64.19% (pH 5) and 17.59% (pH 2), respectively, under UV irradiation for 300 min. Copyright © 2022 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
A bovine miRNA, bta‐miR‐154c, withstands in vitro human digestion but does not affect cell viability of colorectal human cell lines after transfection
Authors: Pieri Myrtani , Theori Elena , Dweep Harsh , Flourentzou Myrofora , Kalampalika Foteini , Maniori Maria‐Arsenia , Papagregoriou Gregory , Papaneophytou Christos , Felekkis Kyriacos
Published: March 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequent human cancer with over 1.3 million new cases globally. CRC is a complex disease caused by interactions between genetic and environmental factors; in particular, high consumption of red meat, including beef, is considered a risk factor for CRC initiation and progression. Recent data demonstrate that exogenous microRNAs (miRNAs) entering the body via ingestion could pose an effect on the consumer. In this study, we focused on bovine miRNAs that do not share a seed sequence with humans and mice. We identified bta‐miR‐154c, a bovine miRNA found in edible parts of beef and predicted via cross‐species bioinformatic analysis to affect cancer‐related pathways in human cells. When bovine tissue was subjected to cooking and a simulation of human digestion, bta‐miR‐154c was still detected after all procedures, albeit at reduced concentrations. However, lipofection of bta‐miR‐154c in three different colorectal human cell lines did not affect their viability as evaluated at various time points and concentrations. These data indicate that bta‐miR‐154c (a) may affect cancer‐related pathways in human cells, (b) can withstand digestion and be detected after all stages of an in vitro digestion protocol, but (c) it does not appear to alter epithelial cell viability after entering human enterocytes, even at supraphysiological amounts. Further experiments will elucidate whether bta‐miR‐154c exerts a different functional effect on the human gut epithelium, which may cause it to contribute to CRC progression through its consumption.
Metasurface‐Based Hierarchical Structures: Excellent Electromagnetic Wave Absorbers with Low‐Infrared Emissivity Layer
Authors: Duan Yuping , Lei Hao , Huang Lingxi , Ma Xinran , Yang Xuan , Sun Xingyang , Ma Ben
Published: March 2022

Derived from the increasing demand for radar and infrared camouflage integration, a two‐layer hierarchical structure that combines coating and a square patch‐based metasurface is designed. Under deep subwavelength thickness, the infrared stealth layer (IRSL) can markedly reinforce microwave absorption layer (MAL) performance. More than 90% of the electromagnetic wave energy in the 3.7–5.1 GHz and 12.8–18 GHz bands can be absorbed. The hierarchical structure expands the effective absorption bandwidth of the exposed coatings from 0 to 6.6 GHz, and the maximum reflection loss increases from −8 to −40 dB. Moreover, the emissivity in the midinfrared range is maintained at an extremely low value of 0.281. The delay of magnetic resonance is found in the simulation model, indicating that strong magnetic resonance is formed in coatings after covering the IRSL. Meanwhile, the absorption peaks of the coatings are controlled by low‐pass filter metasurfaces. These two factors contribute to the enhancement effect of IRSL on MAL and break the boundary between radar and infrared stealth. Herein, an original solution for tuning multispectral electromagnetic (EM) waves is provided and it has broad application prospects in advanced compatible camouflage material.
Unlocking the Reversible Selenium Electrode for Non‐Aqueous and Aqueous Calcium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhou Rui , Hou Zhen , Liu Qun , Du Xiaoqiong , Huang Jiaqiang , Zhang Biao
Published: March 2022

Calcium‐ion batteries (CIBs) have been considered promising multivalent ion battery systems due to the natural abundance and low redox potential of calcium. The practical realization is largely hampered by the lack of reliable electrode materials. Selenium is first explored as a new conversion‐type electrode for both non‐aqueous and aqueous CIBs. The selenium provides a specific capacity of 476 mAh g–1 with an average voltage of 2.2 V versus Ca/Ca2+ at a current density of 50 mA g–1, offering a higher energy density than other reported cathode materials. Long‐term cyclic stability at a large current density of 500 mA g–1 has been achieved in non‐aqueous electrolytes through encapsulating the selenium in mesoporous carbon. The spectroscopy analysis and density functional theory calculations suggest multi‐step conversion processes involving CaSe4 and Ca2Se5 polyselenides intermediates before reaching the final CaSe phase, exhibiting a distinct reaction pathway from those in other metal‐Se batteries. Furthermore, the application of selenium is extended to the aqueous electrolyte after expanding the electrochemical window. A 1.1 V class aqueous CIB is demonstrated by coupling with a Cu‐based Prussian blue electrode. The discovery of reversible Ca–Se chemistry opens new opportunities for emerging CIBs.
Al/Ti Synergistic Doping Enhanced Cycle Stability of Li‐Rich Layered Oxides
Authors: Wang Errui , Xiao Dongdong , Wu Tianhao , Liu Xiaosong , Zhou Yongning , Wang Boya , Lin Ting , Zhang Xu , Yu Haijun
Published: March 2022

Li‐rich layered oxides (LLOs) suffer from rapid voltage decay and capacity fading, greatly hindering their applications as high‐energy cathode materials for Li‐ion batteries (LIBs), which are closely associated with irreversible structural transformation and lattice oxygen loss upon electrochemical cycling. A strategy of Al/Ti synergistic bulk doping is proposed to stabilize LLOs against structural degradations, yielding remarkable electrochemical performance including a minor voltage decay of 0.34 mV cycle−1 and a superior capacity retention of 89.7% over 500 cycles at 1C. The improved structural stability of Al/Ti codoped LLOs is well maintained after not only initial but also long cycles. This effect can be attributed to the cooperation of Al and Ti, with the former stabilizing the lattice oxygen by strong Al–O bonds and the latter improving the Li+ conductivity by expanding the lattice. The facile bulk synergistic doping of LLOs paves avenues toward their application for high‐energy LIBs.
Nano‐Memristors with 4 mV Switching Voltage Based on Surface‐Modified Copper Nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Peisong , Hui Fei , Aguirre Fernando , Saiz Fernan , Tian Lulu , Han Tingting , Zhang Zhijun , Miranda Enrique , Lanza Mario
Published: March 2022

The development of memristors operating at low switching voltages <50 mV can be very useful to avoid signal amplification in many types of circuits, such as those used in bioelectronic applications to interact with neurons and nerves. Here, it is reported that 400 nm‐thick films made of dalkyl‐dithiophosphoric (DDP) modified copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) exhibit volatile threshold‐type resistive switching (RS) at ultralow switching voltage of ≈4 mV. The RS is observed in small nanocells with a lateral size of <50 nm–2, during hundreds of cycles, and with an ultralow variability. Atomistic calculations reveal that the switching mechanism is related to the modification of the Schottky barriers and insulator‐to‐metal transition when ionic movement is induced via external bias. The devices are also used to model integrate‐and‐fire neurons for spiking neural networks and it is concluded that circuits employing DDP‐CuNPs consume around ten times less power than similar neurons implemented with a memristor that switches at 40 mV.
Solar‐Blind Ultrathin Sn‐Doped Polycrystalline Ga2O3 UV Phototransistor for Normally Off Operation
Authors: Yoon Youngbin , Hwang Wan Sik , Shin Myunghun
Published: March 2022

Deep ultraviolet (DUV) photodetectors (PDs) based on ultrawide bandgap β‐Ga2O3 have great potential for aerospace, military, and civilian applications, especially because of their inherent solar blindness. An 8 nm thick Sn‐doped polycrystalline β‐Ga2O3 semiconductor is used as the channel material for a solar‐blind PD in this study. The β‐Ga2O3 channel is fully depleted by upward bending of the energy band owing to the work function difference between the highly p‐type Si (gate electrode) and β‐Ga2O3, resulting in normally off behavior with a positive threshold voltage under dark conditions. The normally off behavior is beneficial for simplicity of the gate‐driver circuitry and low power consumption under standby conditions. The fully depleted 8 nm thick polycrystalline β‐Ga2O3 exhibits high‐performance DUV detection capability of light at 215 nm: a low dark current of 29.3 pA and high photo‐to‐dark‐current ratio of ≈104 at zero gate voltage. This fully depleted n‐type β‐Ga2O3 semiconductor with a wafer‐scale substrate can expedite the realization of high‐performance and low‐power‐consumption solar‐blind PDs.
Efficient Charge Transport Driven by Strong Intermolecular Interactions in Cyclopentadithiophene‐Based Donor–Acceptor Type Conjugated Copolymers
Authors: Lee Jiyoul , Luke Joel , Ahn Hyungju , Kim Doyeon , Jin Chang‐Hui , Kim Mun Ho , Won Yong Sun , Yoon Minho , Kim Ji‐Seon
Published: March 2022

Understanding charge transport in π‐conjugated polymers is critical for the design of high‐mobility polymers. However, charge transport in donor–acceptor (D–A) type copolymers and the roles of D and A units are still unclear. Herein, the charge transport properties of three cyclopentadithiophene (CDT)‐based D–A type copolymers with CDT as a common donor and benzothiadiazole, fluoro‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole, or pyridyl‐2,1,3‐thiadiazole (PTz) as an acceptor are investigated. The best charge transport is found for CDT‐PTz showing 0.79 ± 0.01 cm2 V−1 s−1 hole mobility in field‐effect transistors, with the lowest energetic disorder by temperature‐dependent mobility measurements. Using various structural probes and density functional theory simulations, it is found that CDT‐PTz has the most rigid and planar backbone structure and the strongest intramolecular dipole moment thanks to the noncovalent N–S interactions and the strong electron‐withdrawing PTz acceptor unit. These structural properties lead to strong intermolecular interactions in CDT‐PTz, reducing its π–π stacking distance, producing strong aggregation even in hot dilute solutions. The enhanced mobility in CDT‐PTz is attributed to this high quality π–π stacking, driven by increased backbone rigidity and strong molecular dipoles. This work suggests that rigidifying the copolymer backbone with enhanced push–pull strength of the D–A units is a key requirement for high‐mobility D–A copolymers.
Stepwise Dopant Selection Process for High‐Nickel Layered Oxide Cathodes
Authors: Kim Do‐Hoon , Song Jun‐Hyuk , Jung Chul‐Ho , Eum Donggun , Kim Byunghoon , Hong Seong‐Hyeon , Kang Kisuk
Published: March 2022

NCM‐based lithium layered oxides (LiNi1–x–yCoxMnyO2) have become prevalent cathode materials in state‐of‐the‐art lithium‐ion batteries. Higher energy densities can be achieved in these materials by systematically increasing the nickel content; however, this approach commonly results in inferior cycle stability. The poor cycle retention of high‐nickel NCM cathodes is generally attributed to chemo‐mechanical degradation (e.g., intergranular microcracks), vulnerability to oxygen‐gas evolution, and the accompanying rocksalt phase formation via cation mixing. Herein, the feasibility of doping strategies is examined to mitigate these issues and effective dopants for high‐nickel NCM cathodes are theoretically identified through a stepwise pruning process based on density functional theory calculations. Specifically, a sequential three‐step screening process is conducted for 38 potential dopants to scrutinize their effectiveness in mitigating chemo‐mechanical lattice stress, oxygen evolution, and cation mixing at charged states. Using this process, promising dopant species are selected rationally and a silicon‐doped LiNi0.92Co0.04Mn0.04O2 cathode is synthesized, which exhibits suppressed lattice expansion/contraction, fewer intergranular microcracks, and reduced rocksalt formation on the surface compared with its undoped counterpart, leading to superior electrochemical performance. Moreover, a comprehensive map of dopants regarding their potential applicability is presented, providing rational guidance for an effective doping strategy for high‐nickel NCM cathodes.
Liver transplantation for intrahepatic and hilar cholangiocellular carcinoma: Most recent updates in the literature
Authors: Eguchi Susumu , Hidaka Masaaki , Hara Takanobu , Matsushima Hajime , Soyama Akihiko
Published: March 2022

Liver transplantation (LT) for non‐hepatocellular carcinoma is still a debatable indication. Recently, hilar cholangiocellular carcinoma (hCCC) has attracted interest as a new indication for LT, but LT in this case should be carefully considered. Based on the recent meta‐analysis for intrahepatic CCC (IHCCC) and our results from incidental IHCCC transplanted for other diseases such as primary sclerosing cholangitis, the indication for LT for IHCCC should be limited to a single tumor less than 2 cm. For hCCC, with pre‐transplant chemoradiotherapy and careful selection criteria, long‐term survival after LT could be attained. In order to improve the results of LT for intrahepatic and hCCC, further studies are required on the ingenuity of immunosuppressive therapy combined with chemotherapy, and optimal treatment methods to prevent recurrence, as well as initial case selection.
Application and utility of surgical techniques for cystic plate isolation in liver surgery
Authors: Tokumitsu Yukio , Tamesa Takao , Shindo Yoshitaro , Sakamoto Kazuhiko , Nagano Hiroaki
Published: March 2022

One of the most important areas of anatomical knowledge for liver surgery is the plate system in the hilar area. Four plates comprise the hilar area plate system: the hilar plate, cystic plate, umbilical plate, and Arantian plate. Based on the theory that the cystic plate is continuous with the hilar plate, isolation of the cystic plate can be applicable to various scenarios in liver surgery. We describe herein the procedure and usefulness of cystic plate isolation to approach the hilar plate, in both open and laparoscopic surgeries. This isolation can be applied in various manners. First, cystic plate traction can facilitate the Glissonian approach, drawing out the extrahepatic Glissonian pedicles and thus lengthening the pedicle, and facilitate isolation of these pedicles. Second, inflow control can be obtained by applying the cystic plate traction method to the Glissonian approach. This is suitable to control hepatic inflow when there is no need to divide vessels such as lymph node dissection or vascular resection and reconstruction. Third, the Glissonian approach can be used in surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma patients with portal thrombosis. The cystic plate traction method potentially avoids injury to the Glissonian pedicle that would cause unnecessary bleeding, and is thus particularly efficient for advanced cancers such as hepatocellular carcinoma patients with portal thrombosis and collateral vessels around the area of obstruction in the Glissonian sheath. In this article, we focused on our anatomical knowledge and technical tips for making use of cystic plate isolation in liver surgery.
White light emission from AIE‐active luminescent organic materials
Authors: Kumari Beena , Dahiwadkar Rahul , Kanvah Sriram
Published: March 2022

Fluorescent organic materials that exhibit unique aggregation‐induced emission have been utilized for various applications, including white light emission (WLE). The materials typically rely on composite designs involving a mixture of compounds emitting at different wavelengths of light. To overcome the limitations offered by the design of such composite mixtures, tremendous efforts were also emphasized in developing single‐molecule substrates that emit white light. The white light by either method is typically controlled by the solvent polarity, energy and charge transfer, host‐guest interactions, gelation, or embedding in the polymer or organic frameworks. This article briefly reviews various molecules exhibiting aggregation‐induced emission behavior and emitting white light.
Uncertainty estimation in deep learning‐based property models: Graph neural networks applied to the critical properties
Authors: Aouichaoui Adem R. N. , Mansouri Seyed Soheil , Abildskov Jens , Sin Gürkan
Published: March 2022

Deep learning and graph‐based models have gained popularity in various life science applications such as property modeling, achieving state‐of‐the‐art performance. However, the quantification of prediction uncertainty in these models is less studied and is not applied in the low dataset size regime, which characterizes many chemical engineering‐related molecular properties. In this work, we apply two graph‐based models to model the critical‐ temperature, pressure, and volume and apply three techniques (the bootstrap, the ensemble, and the dropout) to quantify the prediction uncertainty. The overall model confidence is evaluated using the coverage. The results suggest that graph‐based models perform better compared with current group‐contribution‐based property modeling techniques while eliminating the tedious task of developing molecular descriptors.
Recent Advances in the Catalytic Umpolung Carboxylation of Allylic Alcohol Derivatives with Carbon Dioxide
Authors: You Yong , Mita Tsuyoshi
Published: March 2022

Allylic alcohols and their derivatives (e. g. halides, acetates, and pivalates) are readily available organic compounds that are frequently employed in organic synthesis, and especially in Tsuji‐Trost‐type allylic substitution reactions. These allylic substrates add oxidatively to transition metals such as Pd to form π‐allyl metal species, which can act as suitable electrophiles for several nucleophilic counterparts. However, under reductive conditions, the π‐allyl metal species instantly become nucleophilic and react with various electrophiles including the rather stable CO2, which is an abundant, inexpensive, non‐toxic, and renewable carbon source in organic synthesis. When CO2 is incorporated in allylic compounds, synthetically useful β,γ‐unsaturated carboxylic acid derivatives are obtained exclusively. In this review, we focus on the recent advances in such catalytic umpolung carboxylations of allyl alcohols, acetates, pivalates, and halides with CO2 under thermal, photochemical, and electrochemical conditions.
White matter hyperintensities and longitudinal cognitive decline in cognitively normal populations and across diagnostic categories: A meta‐analysis, systematic review, and recommendations for future study harmonization
Authors: Roseborough Austyn D , Saad Lorenzo , Goodman Maren , Cipriano Lauren E , Hachinski Vladimir C , Whitehead Shawn N
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The primary aim of this paper is to improve the clinical interpretation of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) and provide an overarching summary of methodological approaches, allowing researchers to design future studies targeting current knowledge gaps.

Methods

A meta‐analysis and systematic review was performed investigating associations between baseline WMHs and longitudinal cognitive outcomes in cognitively normal populations, and populations with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and stroke.

Results

Baseline WMHs increase the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia across diagnostic categories and most consistently in MCI and post‐stroke populations. Apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype and domain‐specific cognitive changes relating to strategic anatomical locations, such as frontal WMH and executive decline, represent important considerations. Meta‐analysis reliability was assessed using multiple methods of estimation, and results suggest that heterogeneity in study design and reporting remains a significant barrier.

Discussion

Recommendations and future directions for study of WMHs are provided to improve cross‐study comparison and translation of research into consistent clinical interpretation.
Conjugates of Recombinant Protein‐Based Polymers: Combining Precision with Chemical Diversity
Authors: Hadar Dagan , Strugach Daniela S. , Amiram Miriam
Published: March 2022

Inspired by nature, scientists have harnessed the natural protein translation machinery to produce intricate and precise protein‐based polymers (PBPs)—composed of natural amino acid monomers and assembled on the nano‐to‐macro scale—for drug and gene delivery, to sense the environment, to produce valuable molecules, and to grow cells and tissues. Beyond the chemical repertoire of natural amino acids, the conjugation of chemically diverse molecules to recombinant PBPs can increase the ability of the latter to mimic or modify the remarkable properties of natural biomaterials and to impart new functions. In this review, recent progress in the production and application of recombinant PBP‐conjugates is described. First, the various approaches for protein conjugation or crosslinking are briefly discussed and then the utility of this approach for imparting new or improved properties and functions onto PBPs composed of elastin‐, resilin‐, silk‐, or collagen‐based sequences is demonstrated. Finally, emerging knowledge of and technologies for PBP‐conjugate production with the potential to expand the use of such precise and chemically diverse polymers in biomedicine is discussed.
Bioactive La(III), Er(III), Yb(III), Ru(III), and Ta(V) complexes of new organometallic Schiff base: Preparation, structural characterization, antibacterial, anticancer activities, and MOE studies
Authors: Deghadi Reem G. , Mohamed Gehad G. , Mahmoud Nessma F.
Published: March 2022

Bioactive complexes [La(L)(H2O)3Cl]Cl2.2H2O (1), [Er(L)(H2O)3Cl]Cl2 (2), [Yb(L)(H2O)2Cl2]Cl.4H2O (3), [Ru(L)(H2O)2Cl2]Cl.H2O (4), and [Ta(L)(H2O)Cl5] (5) have been prepared from 2‐acetylferrocene derivative Schiff base (L) and characterized with different spectroscopic tools. Infrared (IR) spectral data proved the action of the ligand as a neutral bidentate Schiff base, coordinating via N‐azomethine and N‐pyrazole. Ta(V)‐complex was eight‐coordinated complex, whereas others were six‐coordinated complexes. Molar conductance results showed that La(III) and Er(III) chelates were 1:2 electrolytes, Yb(III) and Ru(III) chelates were 1:1 electrolytes, and Ta(V) chelate was non‐electrolyte. Thermal behavior of all compounds was characterized by thermogravimetric analysis/differential thermogravimetric analysis (TG/DTG) curves with mass loss related to dehydration, coordination, and decomposition steps. Growth inhibitory effect and IC50 values of compounds toward MCF‐7 cancer cell line were measured, and the data revealed that all complexes showed higher anticancer activity than free ligand. The lowest IC50 value was 4.5 μg/mL for La(III) and Ru(III) complexes. Furthermore, almost complexes showed good activities against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, and Staphylococcus aureus species with inhibition zone diameter in the range of 10–15 mm/mg. While, they had no antifungal activities against Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavas species. Finally, the strong binding affinity of ligand and its complexes with different protein receptors was confirmed by MOE studies.
TMU‐16‐NH2MOF modified with organic ligands for stabilization of copper nanoparticles: An efficient and crystalline heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of propargyl amines derivatives under green reaction condition
Authors: Kiani Ameneh , Alinezhad Heshmatollah , Ghasemi Shahram
Published: March 2022

Functionalization of metal–organic framework (MOF) with various organic molecules to reinforce its surface potential in adsorption and stabilization of transition metal nanoparticles (NPs) is of great attention in creating/supporting ions metal within their framework and converting them into efficient heterogeneous catalysts. Here, we used a hybrid of inorganic–organic MOF (TMU‐16‐NH2) as an unparalleled compound for designing an efficient catalyst with nanoarchitecture via covalent functionalization of urea and 1,3‐propane sultone ligands. This hybrid nanoporous MOF was further engaged as a support in the synthesis and stabilization of Cu NPs on its surface, and then, the obtained Cu‐supported MOF was applied as a heterogeneous catalyst in the synthesis of propargyl amines derivatives under green reaction conditions with efficient recyclability.
Introduction of a crystalline block as a strategy to increase swelling resistance and dimensional stability of sulfonated copolyimide
Authors: Sapegin Denis Andzheevich , Gubanova Galina Nikolaevna , Vlasova Elena Nikolaevna , Zaharova Natalya Vladimirovna , Afanas'eva Nadezhda Vasil'evna , Popova Elena Nikolaevna , Sokolova Maria Petrovna , Lavrentyev Viktor Konstantinovich , Primachenko Oleg Nikolaevich , Kononova Svetlana Viktorovna
Published: March 2022

The introduction of blocks inclined to form areas of high crystallinity into the sulfonated block co‐polyimide is investigated as a prospective strategy to increase swelling resistance and dimensional stability of the polymer in application to the proton exchange membranes development. The novel copolymer with the highly crystalline block was obtained and characterized by the means of static and dynamic light scattering, IR spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The structural and morphological features of the obtained copolymer were investigated with X‐ray diffraction analysis and atomic force microscopy. Transport properties of the co‐polyimide are evaluated in terms of pervaporation, proton conductivity measurements and dielectric spectroscopy experiments. The article aims at the evaluation of the influence of the high‐crystalline block introduction on morphological, transport and physical properties of the sulfonated copolymer. The properties of the obtained crystalline sulfonated copolymer are compared to the ones of the similar amorphous polyimide. The studied crystalline copolymer showed constancy of the proton conductivity values in the broad range of temperatures (20–120°C, RMSD of 0.23%) and relative humidity values.
Peripheral γδ T Cells Regulate Neutrophil Expansion and Recruitment in Experimental Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Nguyen Cuong Thach , Furuya Hiroki , Das Dayasagar , Marusina Alina I. , Merleev Alexander A. , Ravindran Resmi , Jalali Zahra , Khan Imran H. , Maverakis Emanual , Adamopoulos Iannis E.
Published: March 2022

Objective

This study was undertaken to identify the mechanistic role of γδ T cells in the pathogenesis of experimental psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods

In this study, we performed interleukin‐23 (IL‐23) gene transfer in wild‐type (WT) and T cell receptor δ–deficient (TCRδ−/−) mice and conducted tissue phenotyping in the joint, skin, and nails to characterize the inflammatory infiltrate. We further performed detailed flow cytometry, immunofluorescence staining, RNA sequencing, T cell repertoire analysis, and in vitro T cell polarization assays to identify regulatory mechanisms of γδ T cells.

Results

We demonstrated that γδ T cells support systemic granulopoiesis, which is critical for murine PsA‐like pathology. Briefly, γδ T cell ablation inhibited the expression of neutrophil chemokines CXCL1 and CXCL2 and neutrophil CD11b+Ly6G+ accumulation in the aforementioned PsA‐related tissues. Although significantly reduced expression of granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) and IL‐17A was detected systemically in TCRδ−/− mice, no GM‐CSF+/IL‐17A+ γδ T cells were detected locally in the inflamed skin or bone marrow in WT mice. Our data showed that nonresident γδ T cells regulate the expansion of an CD11b+Ly6G+ neutrophil population and their recruitment to joint and skin tissues, where they develop hallmark pathologic features of human PsA.

Conclusion

Our findings do not support the notion that tissue‐resident γδ T cells initiate the disease but demonstrate a novel role of γδ T cells in neutrophil regulation that can be exploited therapeutically in PsA patients.
Ethylene Glycol as an Antifreeze Additive and Corrosion Inhibitor for Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Tran Thuy , Zhao Maosen , Geng Shujiang , Ivey Douglas G.
Published: March 2022

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries are promising candidates for portable and large‐scale applications because of their intrinsically high safety, low cost and high theoretical energy density. However, existing aqueous zinc‐ion batteries usually suffer from zinc corrosion and poor performance at subzero temperatures. Herein, to address these problems, the electrolyte in aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (1 M ZnSO4) is modified by adding suitable amounts of ethylene glycol. The addition of ethylene glycol improves the antifreezing ability of the aqueous electrolyte and increases the conductivity of electrolyte at low temperatures. Ethylene glycol serves two purposes, as an antifreeze additive to significantly enhance the capacity of batteries at low temperatures and as a corrosion inhibitor to suppress zinc corrosion and byproduct precipitation. This work offers a facile strategy to realize aqueous zinc‐ion batteries with good performance at low temperatures.
A conceptual framework for blockchain‐based sustainable supply chain and evaluating implementation barriers: A case of the tea supply chain
Authors: Mangla Sachin Kumar , Kazançoğlu Yiğit , Yıldızbaşı Abdullah , Öztürk Cihat , Çalık Ahmet
Published: March 2022

The increasing population and income inequality in the last decades have made it necessary to focus on the concept of sustainability. In the changing world order, with economic crises, instabilities, pandemics, and social media, sustainability awareness differs significantly from past years. In addition, developing new technologies and concepts (big data, blockchain, IoT, robotic, etc.) plays a crucial role in meeting social awareness in terms of sustainability. Food sustainability is also one of the most important pillars in this concept. The integration of new technologies in agriculture and food chains will enable the current world population to use resources more efficiently and sustainably. Blockchain, one of the technologies that emerged with the arrival of Industry 4.0, is a technology that can be used effectively in many sectors. Particularly in supply chain networks, it is seen as a technology that supports the sustainability concept due to its features such as decentralization, reliability, transparency, consensus standards, and traceability. However, since blockchain is an immature and new technology, there are some challenges with integrating it into existing conventional systems. This study aims to present a conceptual framework for the integration of blockchain technology to establish a sustainable tea supply chain, define possible actions, and prioritize the possible risks that may arise in this integration process; this will be done through the Spherical Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (SF‐AHP) approach. In this context, initially, the current tea supply chain will be considered and the activities carried out will be defined in terms of technological, environmental, and strategic sustainability. Then, the design that includes the integration of all activities with blockchain technology is presented. The proposed design covers the entire tea supply chain from end to end and is considered with regard to all sustainability dimensions. In the proposed framework, barriers that may be encountered and risks that may arise at each stage of the tea supply chain process are identified; managerial implications are then presented to eliminate these risks. To enhance the use of the recommendations made, risks and barriers are prioritized with SF‐AHP management. Thus, the problems that need to be solved primarily in the technological transformation process can be evaluated more clearly. The proposed theoretical framework is expected to extend to all agricultural practices and support technological advances throughout the agricultural sector.
What drives and curbs brownwashing?
Authors: Huang Yinglin , Francoeur Claude , Brammer Stephen
Published: March 2022

Numerous studies have investigated the factors that drive or curb greenwashing activities, but few have discussed the other side of the coin, brownwashing, the underreporting of environmental achievements, another form of corporate decoupling that is harmful for stakeholders. Using a sample of 5459 firm–year observations over the period 2007–2017, this study tests and finds that industry leaders brownwash their environmental performance to avoid peer pressure and excessive stakeholder attention, and to preserve their firm's leadership. Consequently, legitimate firms tend to converge toward informal industry standards that engender standardized environmental disclosures. Nevertheless, this phenomenon can be curbed by adopting sound environmental governance mechanisms aimed at improving corporate transparency and environmental practices.
The impact of employees' perceptions about top management engagement on sustainability development efforts and firm performance
Authors: Gopalakrishna‐Remani Venugopal , Byun Kyung‐Ah ( Kay) , Doty D. Harold
Published: March 2022

Because sustainability management plays a vital role in firm performance, it is critical to understand the underlying mechanisms that drive better firm performance with sustainability adoption. Thus, drawing upon responsible leadership theory and the dynamic resource‐based view, this study examines how the level of sustainability adoption influences firm performance, both environmental and financial, emphasizing the role of top management beliefs and participation in sustainability adoption. With responses from 310 employees working in manufacturing, healthcare, and retail industries, the SEM analysis results support that (i) perceived top management's strong beliefs lead to a higher level of sustainability adoption by organizations; (ii) perceived top management's active participation positively moderates the relationship between perceived top management beliefs and the level of sustainability adoption; (iii) the higher level of sustainability adoption results in better environmental and financial performance; and (iv) environmental performance positively and partially mediates the relationship between the level of sustainability adoption and financial firm performance. Finally, we offer guidance to managers who would like to leverage top management attributes to achieve environmental and financial performance via environmental sustainability practices.
Polyoxometalates Immobilized on Covalent Triazine Framework as Efficient Catalysts for Deep Oxidative Desulfurization
Authors: Liu Chengpeng , Li Zhen , Liu Huifang , Dong Jing , Chi Yingnan , Hu Changwen
Published: March 2022

The immobilized polyoxometalates (POMs) with evenly dispersed catalytic sites, amphiphilic surface, and excellent recyclability are highly desired in many important reactions. Herein, PMo12@CTF has been successfully fabricated by the electrostatic assembly of H3PMo12O40 (PMo12) with porous cationic covalent triazine framework (CTF), where PMo12 are evenly dispersed on the support. The synthesized PMo12@CTF is highly active for oxidative desulfurization of diesel fuel and dibenzothiophene (DBT) can be completely converted in 2 h under mild conditions (40 °C) in a biphasic system. Impressively, the catalytic activity of heterogeneous PMo12@CTF (conversion: 100 %) is much higher than that of homogeneous PMo12 (conversion: 20 %). The control experiments and contact angle measurements reveal that the CTF endows PMo12@CTF with large surface area and amphiphilic feature and the catalyst can effectively contact with both oxidant H2O2 in extraction phase and DBT in oil phase. Moreover, PMo12@CTF is robust and its catalytic activity is basically maintained after ten cycles.
A Photoresponsive Receptor with a 105 Magnitude of Reversible Anion‐Binding Switching
Authors: Einkauf Jeffrey D. , Bryantsev Vyacheslav S. , Moyer Bruce A. , Custelcean Radu
Published: March 2022

In a leap toward anion separation that uses only energy input for binding and release cycles, we report herein a new class of photoswitchable anion receptors featuring a diiminoguanidinium functionality that displays a change of more than five orders of magnitude in switched‐off binding strength towards sulfate, a representative oxyanion, upon photoirradiation with UV light. The (E,E)‐2‐pyridyl‐diiminoguanidinium cation, synthesized as the triflate salt, binds sulfate with extraordinary strength in [D6]DMSO owing to its bidentate guanidinium hydrogen bonding, which can chelate the O−S−O edge of sulfate. Upon photoisomerization to the Z,Z isomer, the anion‐binding site is essentially shut off by intramolecular hydrogen bonds to the 2‐pyridyl substituents, as shown by anion‐binding titrations, theoretical calculations, and X‐ray structural analysis. This approach will allow the development of advanced anion‐separation cycles that use only energy input and generate no chemical waste, and thus address challenging chemical separation problems in a more sustainable way.
Controlling the Dual‐Emission Character of Aryl‐Modified o‐Carboranes by Intramolecular CH⋅⋅⋅O Interaction Sites
Authors: Ochi Junki , Yuhara Kazuhiro , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: March 2022

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Kazuo Tanaka at Kyoto University. The image depicts the control of solid‐state dual‐emissive properties by modulating the intramolecular hydrogen bonding in boron clusters. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202200155.
Poorer survival outcomes in patients with multiple versus single primary melanoma
Authors: Karapetyan Lilit , Yang Xi , Knight Andrew D. , Huang Ziyu , Wang Hong , Sander Cindy A. , Minnier Christopher P. , Wilson Melissa , Li Aofei , Karunamurthy Arivarasan , Storkus Walter J. , Kirkwood John M.
Published: March 2022

Background

Given equivocal results related to overall survival (OS) for patients with multiple primary melanomas (MPMs) compared with those with single primary melanomas (SPMs) in previous reports, the authors sought to determine whether OS differs between these 2 cohorts in their center using their UPCI‐96‐99 database. Secondary aims were to assess the differences in recurrence‐free survival (RFS). In a subset of patients, transcriptomic profiling of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was performed to assess disease‐associated genes of interest.

Methods

This retrospective case‐controlled study included patients with MPMs and age‐, sex‐, and stage‐matched controls with SPMs at a 1:1 ratio. Cox regression models were used to evaluate the effect of the presence of MPMs on death and recurrence. NanoString PanCancer Immune Profiling was used to assess peripheral blood immune status in patients.

Results

In total, 320 patients were evaluated. The mean patient age was 47 years; 43.8% were male. Patients with MPMs had worse RFS and OS (P = .023 and P = .0019, respectively). The presence of MPMs was associated with an increased risk of death (hazard ratio [HR], 4.52, P = .0006), and increased risk of disease recurrence (HR, 2.17; P = .004) after adjusting for age, sex, and stage. The degree of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) was different between the first melanoma of MPMs and SPMs. Expression of CXCL6 and FOXJ1 was increased in PBMCs isolated from patients with MPMs.

Conclusions

Patients with MPMs had worse RFS and OS compared with patients with SPMs. Immunologic differences were also observed, including TIL content and expression of CXCL6/FOXJ1 in PBMCs of patients with MPMs, which warrant further investigation.
Improving Solubility and Avoiding Hygroscopicity of Gatifloxacin by Forming Pharmaceutical Salt of Gatifloxacin‐2,3‐Dihydroxybenzoic Acid Based on Charge‐Assisted Hydrogen Bonds
Authors: Liu Lixin , Liu Moqi , Zhang Yunan , Sun Weitong , Li Jinjing , Feng Yanru , Geng Yiding , Cheng Guangdong , Gong Yixia , Guo Yingxue , Wu Lili , Wang Chaoxing , Liu Yingli
Published: March 2022

To improve the solubility of the fluoroquinolone drug gatifloxacin (GAT), a pharmaceutical salt of GAT with 2,3‐dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,3‐HBA) is designed, synthesized, and characterized. This work is based on previous research into the synthesis of the pharmaceutical salts/cocrystals of fluoroquinolones. A comprehensive assessment of the crystal structure and the molecular electrostatic potential, as well as a Hirshfeld surface analysis, revealed that the H protons of the carboxylic groups in 2,3‐HBA are transferred to the N of the GAT piperazine ring. This results in the ionization of GAT to form charge‐assisted hydrogen bonds (CAHBs) and the construction of a crystal structure. It is precisely the conversion of GAT from a neutral state to an ionic state that results in a significant increase in the solubility of GAT‐2,3‐HBA. Surprisingly, in the process of increasing its solubility, the hygroscopic stability and the antibacterial activities in vitro of GAT‐2,3‐HBA is also superior to GAT. In this study, a pharmaceutical salt of gatifloxacin with targeted structures and desired properties, based on CAHBs is successfully designed and synthesized. These encouraging results suggest that CAHBs play a crucial role in adjusting molecular packing through a co‐crystallization strategy, thus improving the physicochemical properties of fluoroquinolones.
Investigation of the interaction of dense noble gas plasmas with cold cathodes: I—Experimental setup and application to Al, Cu, Ti, and graphite cathodes
Authors: Frohnert Sonja , Mentel Jürgen
Published: March 2022

The formation of arc spots on cold cathodes, called arcing, is an interference factor in all kinds of plasma technical devices. It is investigated by igniting an arc in a clean atmospheric pressure Ar or Kr filling of a stainless steel vessel. It is brought into interaction by a magnetic blast field with a negatively biased commutation electrode (CE), formed by a rod with a diameter of 2 mm consisting of pure Al, Cu, Ti, or graphite; its end face is polished with diamond grinding powder. The arc commutation is observed by short‐time photography, streak camera records, and temporally highly resolved optical spectroscopy for different applied voltages. The emission of ion lines of the filling gas and of vaporized electrode material by the plasma in front of the cathode is indicating the formation of a positive space charge layer in front of its surface. It provides the ions, which induce secondary electron emission of the cathode surface and with it, the arc commutation. The commutation time tc elapsing between a signal generated by the arc plasma in front of the CE and the beginning of a current flow through the electrode increases for low voltages with increasing permittivity of a surface layer formed by electrically insulating metal oxide and decreases with increasing electrical conductivity of the layer. It is lowest for graphite without an oxide layer. On scanning electron microscope pictures, taken of the end face of the electrode after arc commutation, craters with diameters of less than 1 μm are visible.
Vegetation changes over the last centuries in the Lower Lake Constance region reconstructed from sediment‐core environmental DNA
Authors: Ibrahim Anan , Höckendorff Stefanie , Schleheck David , Epp Laura , van Kleunen Mark , Meyer Axel
Published: March 2022

Many European lake ecosystems, including their respective catchment areas, underwent anthropogenic environmental changes over the last centuries. This has resulted in changes in the aquatic and terrestrial vegetation, but historical records on the composition of the past vegetation on centennial scale are scarce. In this study, we examined changes in the terrestrial and aquatic plant communities in and around Lower Lake Constance using metabarcoding of sedimentary DNA (sedDNA) of three cores from different sub‐basins covering the past, up to 300 years. We successfully identified an average of c. 3000 sequence variants (molecular operational taxonomic units ‐ MOTUs) and obtained a taxonomically annotated dataset of 127 species, 104 genera, and 72 families. We could detect major changes in the terrestrial and aquatic vegetation of the Lower Lake Constance region by examining the cores. For example, alpha diversity decreased in the last c. 100 years, and this decrease was more pronounced in the terrestrial than in the aquatic plant community. Unlike the terrestrial plant community, the current aquatic plant‐community composition partially resembles the community from before the 20th‐century eutrophication phase of the lake. In addition to changes that can be attributed to anthropogenic impacts, we also captured the effect of DNA sedimentation on the terrestrial DNA diversity representation in sediments during periods of extensive flooding and potentially as a consequence of extremely cold winters. With sedDNA from Lower Lake Constance, we provide a new local dataset to investigate and extend the historical changes of different shoreline habitats and to identify characteristic and invasive plant species. Such highly resolved datasets spanning the past centuries can provide detailed information on human environmental history in densely populated regions that have undergone severe changes in the recent past.
Varying Structure‐Directing Anions in Uranyl Ion Complexes with Ni(2,2′ : 6′,2′′‐terpyridine‐4′‐carboxylate)2
Authors: Thuéry Pierre , Harrowfield Jack
Published: March 2022

2,2′ : 6′,2“‐Terpyridine‐4′‐carboxylic acid (tpycH) reacts with uranyl cations under solvo‐hydrothermal conditions to give [UO2(tpyc)2] ⋅ 2H2O (1), a monoperiodic polymer different from that previously reported. In the additional presence of NiII cations, the Ni(tpyc)2 “expanded ligand” is formed and the structure of its complexes with the uranyl cation depends on the additional anions present. [(UO2)2F4(H2O)2Ni(tpyc)2] ⋅ 2H2O (2) and [UO2(mds)(H2O)Ni(tpyc)2] (3), where mds2− is methanedisulfonate, are monoperiodic polymers in which the fluoride anions are bridging and the mds2− anions chelating. [(UO2)4(NO3)2(H2O)4Ni5(tpyc)10](CF3SO3)4(NO3)2 ⋅ 7H2O (4) crystallizes as a wide and nearly planar monoperiodic ribbon. [(UO2)2(NO3)2(chdc)Ni(tpyc)2] ⋅ chdcH2 ⋅ 2CH3CN (5), where chdc2− is trans‐1,4‐cyclohexanedicarboxylate, is a monoperiodic chain including both bridging Ni(tpyc)2 and chdc2− ligands, the chains being further assembled into layers through hydrogen bonding to bridging chdcH2 molecules. Finally, [UO2Ni2(tpyc)4](I3)2 (6) crystallizes as a diperiodic network with sql topology. These results point to the possibility of modulating the structure of cationic uranyl ion complexes with Ni(tpyc)2 through addition of a wide range of bonding or non‐bonding anions.