bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and characterization of novel MPC1 gene variants causing mitochondrial pyruvate carrier deficiency
Authors: Jiang Huafang , Alahmad Ahmad , Fu Song , Fu Xiaoling , Liu Zhimei , Han Xiaodi , Li Lanlan , Song Tianyu , Xu Manting , Liu Shanshan , Wang Junling , Albash Buthaina , Alaqeel Ahmad , Catalina Vasilescu , Prokisch Holger , Taylor Robert W. , McFarland Robert , Fang Fang
Published: December 2021

Pyruvate, the end product of glycolysis, is a key metabolic molecule enabling mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate synthesis and takes part in multiple biosynthetic pathways within mitochondria. The mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC) plays a vital role in transporting pyruvate from the cytosol into the organelle. In humans, MPC is a hetero‐oligomeric complex formed by the MPC1 and MPC2 paralogs that are both necessary to stabilize each other and form a functional MPC. MPC deficiency (OMIM#614741) due to pathogenic MPC1 variants is a rare autosomal recessive disease involving developmental delay, microcephaly, growth failure, and increased serum lactate and pyruvate. To date, two MPC1 variants in four cases have been reported, though only one with a detailed clinical description. Herein, we report three novel pathogenic MPC1 variants in six patients from three unrelated families, identified within European, Kuwaiti, and Chinese mitochondrial disease patient cohorts, one of whom presented as a Leigh‐like syndrome. Functional analysis in primary fibroblasts from the patients revealed decreased expression of MPC1 and MPC2. We rescued pyruvate‐driven oxygen consumption rate in patient's fibroblasts by reconstituting with wild‐type MPC1. Complementing homozygous MPC1 mutant cDNA with CRISPR‐deleted MPC1 C2C12 cells verified the mechanism of variants: unstable MPC complex or ablated pyruvate uptake activity. Furthermore, we showed that glutamine and beta‐hydroxybutyrate were alternative substrates to maintain mitochondrial respiration when cells lack pyruvate. In conclusion, we expand the clinical phenotypes and genotypes associated with MPC deficiency, with our studies revealing glutamine as a potential therapy for MPC deficiency.
Identification of an IRES within the coding region of the structural protein of human rhinovirus 16
Authors: Shi Bingtian , Song Qinqin , Luo Xiaonuan , Song Juan , Xia Dong , Xia Zhiqiang , Liu Mi , Wang Wenjun , Wang Ruifang , Du Haijun , Wei Qiang , Han Jun
Published: December 2021

As an alternative mechanism for cap‐dependent (m7GpppN) translation, internal ribosome entry site (IRES)‐dependent translation has been observed in the 5′ untranslated regions (5′ UTR) and coding regions of a number of viral and eukaryotic mRNAs. In this study, a series of 5′ terminal truncated structural protein genes that were fused with GFP was used to screen for potential IRESs, and IRESs were identified using a bicistronic luciferase vector or GFP expression vector possessing a hairpin structure. Our results revealed that a putative IRES was located between nt 1982 and 2281 in the VP3 coding region of the human rhinovirus 16 (HRV16) genomes. We also demonstrated that effective IRES‐initiated protein expression in vitro did not occur through splicing sites or cryptic promoters. We confirmed that thapsigargin (TG), an inducer of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), facilitated increased IRES activity in a dose‐dependent manner. Additionally, the secondary structure of the IRES was predicted online using the RNAfold web server.
Prediction of Oxygen Desaturation by Using Sound Data From a Noncontact Device: A Proof‐of‐Concept Study
Authors: Kim Jeong‐Whun , Shin Jaeyoung , Lee Kyogu , Won Tae‐Bin , Rhee Chae‐Seo , Cho Sung‐Woo
Published: December 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Prediction of the apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) from breathing sounds during sleep could be used to prescreen for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In addition, the oxygen desaturation index (ODI) is a known risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease in OSA patients. This study focused on estimation of ODI from a noncontact manner from sleep breathing sounds.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Methods

Patients who visited the sleep center due to snoring or sleep apnea underwent polysomnography in lab overnight. Sound recordings were made during polysomnography using a microphone. After noise reduction, the sound data were segmented into 5 seconds windows and features were extracted. Binary classification and regression analyses were performed to estimate the ODI during sleep (model 1). This was re‐tested after inclusion of body mass index (BMI) and age as additional features (model 2: BMI only, model 3: BMI and age).

Results

We included 116 patients. The mean age and AHI of all patients were 50.4 ± 16.7 years and 23.0 ± 24.0 events/hr. In binary classification, for ODI cutoff values of 5, 15, and 30 events/hr, the areas under the curve were 0.88, 0.93, 0.91, respectively, and accuracies were 85.34, 86.21, and 87.07, respectively. In regression analysis, the correlation coefficient and mean absolute error were 0.80 and 9.60 events/hr, respectively. In models 2 and 3, the correlation coefficient and mean absolute error were 0.82, 9.44 events/hr and 0.81, 9.6 events/hr, respectively.

Conclusion

Prediction of ODI from sleep sound seems to be feasible. Additional clinical feature such as BMI may increase overall predictability.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 132:901–905, 2022
Nanosized molybdenum disulfide on surface‐modified carbon material as lubricating oil additive for friction‐reduction and anti‐wear
Authors: Su Huaigang , Li Chencan , Jiang Cheng , Wang Yanan , Wang Xiaobo , Gong Kuiliang , Lou Wenjing
Published: December 2021

For the first time, nanosized molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanoparticles (NPs) were grown on the surface of poly(ethylene glycol)‐polydopamine‐modified reduction graphene oxide) nanosheets (rGO‐PDA‐PEG). The obtained rGO‐PDA‐PEG@MoS2 nanocomposites exhibits excellent dispersion in polyalkylene glycol (PAG) synthetic oil and outperforms GO and MoS2 NPs as additives in terms of friction reduction and wear resistance at elevated temperature. The superior tribological behaviour of rGO‐PDA‐PEG@MoS2 might be beneficial to the synergistic effect between MoS2 and rGO.
Transparent Soft Electrothermal Actuators with Integrated Cu Nanowire Heater for Soft Robotics
Authors: Chang Chunlei , Zhao Le , Song Zichen , Zhou Yan , Yu Shihui
Published: December 2021

Soft actuators with high flexibility have received widespread attention. Here, a transparent electrothermal soft actuator is designed and manufactured via sandwiched copper nanowires (Cu NWs) between two kinds of flexible substrates with different thermal expansion characteristics (polyethylene‐terephthalate (PET) and low‐density polyethylene (LDPE)). In order to improve bending characteristics of the soft actuator, heating performance of heaters with different widths is studied, and the bending characteristics of strain gauges under different voltages are also studied. The fabricated soft actuator can produce a bend of 90° and provide about 1 mN of force at a low voltage of 6 V. The application of this type of soft actuator is demonstrated toward biomimetic robotics, a two‐finger flexible transparent gripper is designed, where two soft actuators are utilized to simulate the movements of human fingers and realizes the operation of picking and placing fine objects. In addition, the topography of the object can be feasibly observed during clamping process of the soft actuator with certain light transmittance, which is favorable for the soft gripper application.
Coupling Kinetic Modelling with SAOS and LAOS Rheology of Poly(n‐butyl acrylate)
Authors: Grotian genannt Klages Hannah , Ermis Nihal , Luinstra Gerrit Albert , Zentel Kristina Maria
Published: December 2021

A kinetic model based on fundamentals of radical polymerization and literature known rate parameters for the polymerization of n‐butyl acrylate is validated against molecular analysis and rheological data. The model is used to predict conversion, molar mass distribution, and branching densities in form of short and long chain branching. Rheological measurements of synthesized model polymers are evaluated along the Carreau‐Yasuda and Van Gurp‐Palmen presentations, allowing to detect small differences in the degree of long chain branching. Contributions of anharmonics to viscoelastic response in large amplitude oscillations are small and differences between the products are dominated by the differences in molar mass.
pH‐Dependent Behavior of Ionizable Cationic Lipids in mRNA‐Carrying Lipoplexes Investigated by Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Settanni Giovanni , Brill Wolfgang , Haas Heinrich , Schmid Friederike
Published: December 2021

Lipid‐based nanoparticles and lipoplexes containing ionizable lipids are among the most successful nanocarriers for mRNA‐based therapies. The molecular structure of these assemblies is still not fully understood, as well as the role played by the ionizable lipids. SAXS experiments have shown that lipoplexes including the ionizable lipid 2‐dioleyloxy‐N,N‐dimethyl‐3‐aminopropane (DODMA), under specific conditions, have a lamellar structure, where lipid bilayers are separated by mRNA‐rich layers, with an overall spacing between 6.5 and 8.0 nm and a complex pH‐dependence. Here, the structure and dynamics of these lipoplexes are investigated at varying pH and mRNA concentration using multiscale molecular dynamics simulations. It is observed that the interaction between DODMA and RNA is slightly attractive only at low pH levels, while it becomes effectively repulsive at high and intermediate pH. This results into a pH‐dependent relocation of the RNA inside the multilayers, from the lipid head groups at low pH to a more uniform distribution inside the hydrophilic slabs of the multilayers at high pH. It is also observed that at high pH, DODMA lipids shift toward the hydrophobic part of the bilayer, consequently increasing their leaflet‐flipping rate, a phenomenon which may ultimately affect the fusion process of the lipoplex with the endosomal membrane.
Exploring the relationship between female director's profile and sustainability performance: Evidence from the Middle East
Authors: Issa Ayman , Zaid Mohammad A. A. , Hanaysha Jalal Rajeh
Published: December 2021

This paper purposes to analyze how female directors' human capital can influence the development of sustainability performance. Specifically, we classified the human capital of female directors into three categories including highly educated members, community influentials, and business experts to determine which particular types of these categories can foster sustainability performance. The estimation is based on a sample of 93 nonfinancial firms listed on the national stock exchanges of Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait, Morocco, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and UAE over the period from 2014 to 2018. The findings clearly unveil that not all female directors are equally influential to sustainability performance by considering their human capital profiles that significantly determine their decisions. Further, we found that female directors with advanced education and social engagement background are positively associated with sustainability performance. Our study has important implications for companies and policymakers. Companies should pay attention to experiences, educational levels, and backgrounds of female directors based on the assumption that human capital profiles of female directors may influence the board effectiveness. Policymakers should also play an active role in promotion gender diversity on regional boards by introducing initiatives that provide more support for qualified women's representation on boards to ameliorate corporate sustainability performance. This empirical study extends the literature on the impact of female director categories on sustainability performance by going beyond the taxonomy of female directors (i.e., independent/nonindependent female directors). We offer clear evidence that not all types of female directors have an impact on sustainability performance by considering their human capital profiles which significantly determine their cognitive abilities.
Two‐parameter bifurcation analysis of the discrete Lorenz model
Authors: Alidousti Javad , Eskandari Zohre , Avazzadeh Zakieh , Tenreiro Machado J. A.
Published: December 2021

This paper studies the bifurcation analysis of the discrete time Lorenz system considering its generalization for two control parameters. The one‐ and two‐parameter bifurcations of the system, including pitchfork, period‐doubling, Neimark–Sacker, 1:2, 1:3, and 1:4 resonances, are surveyed thoroughly. The critical coefficients are computed to analyze the nondegeneracy of listed bifurcations and predict their bifurcation scenarios. The numerical continuation method reveals complex dynamics including bifurcations up to 16th iterations. The results show an excellent agreement between the analytical predictions and the numerical observations.
Local and global existence in Lp for the inhomogeneous nonlinear Schrödinger equation
Authors: Wang Deng , Yang Han
Published: December 2021

This paper investigates the local and global existence for the inhomogeneous nonlinear Schrödinger equation with the nonlinearity λ|x|−b|u|βu. It is show that a global solution exists in the mass‐subcritical for large data in the spaces Lp,  p < 2 under some suitable conditions on b, β, and p. The solution is established using a data‐decomposition argument, two kinds of generalized Strichartz estimates in Lorentz spaces and a interpolation theorem.
Asymptotic stability and synchronization of fractional order Hopfield neural networks with unbounded delay
Authors: He Bin‐bin , Zhou Hua‐Cheng
Published: December 2021

In this paper, the asymptotic stability and synchronization of fractional order Hopfield neural networks (FOHNNs) with time‐varying delay are investigated. First, we propose an extended fractional Halanay inequality, which plays an essential role in the proof of the main results. Using the Banach fixed point theorem, the existence and uniqueness of the equilibrium point of the system is proved. Through the extended Halanay inequality and a useful fractional derivative inequality, the sufficient conditions of the asymptotic stability and synchronization are given for FOHNNs. Finally, two numerical examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Applying Smarta to the analysis of tourist networks
Authors: Lloret‐Climent Miguel , Nescolarde‐Selva Josué‐Antonio , Alonso‐Stenberg Kristian , Montoyo Andrés , Gutiérrez‐Vázquez Yoan
Published: December 2021

The framework of the present study was the destination life cycle model, a classical model that describes the development of tourist destinations. We examined mass tourism in Benidorm based on tourist accommodation supply and demand statistics over the January 2016 to October 2018 period, provided by Spain's National Institute for Statistics. The objective was to analyze the life cycle and competitiveness of Benidorm's tourism system and interpret whether the tourism product was sustainable and at what stage in the cycle Benidorm is currently in. To do this, we used Smarta software, which, based on network analysis, enables to interpret the system's virtuous cycles and analyze causality by observing relationship patterns in the system's attractors, thus complementing typical processing based on causal maps and the study of social networks. The results obtained by this application (which has been developed by our research team) show six sets of attractors that mark the trends of the tourist system. Finally, the analysis of the significant variables of these attractors has helped us to justify that the tourist system of Benidorm is in the rejuvenation phase.
Undrained cylindrical cavity expansion/contraction in stiff clays using a two‐surface plasticity model
Authors: Cheng Wei , Chen Ren‐Peng , Pereira Jean‐Michel , Cui Yu‐Jun
Published: December 2021

This paper presents a semi‐analytical solution of undrained cylindrical cavity expansion/contraction problem using a two‐surface plasticity model for natural stiff clays from the view point of poromechanics. The present solution reduces the classical boundary problem into a group of seven first‐order ordinary differential equations via an auxiliary independent variable ξ under undrained conditions. It strictly follows the premise of constant soil mass (CSM). Meanwhile, the solution for the constant soil volume (CSV) problem is used for comparison. It shows that CSM assumption is of paramount importance in developing solutions under high stress condition, while CSV induces non‐negligible errors in effective stress and pore pressure distributions. Based on the premise of CSM, extensive parametric studies on cavity expansion/contraction are undertaken to investigate the effects of the model key parameters on the stress components distribution, excess pore pressure distribution, and cavity expansion curves. The present solution could be useful while dealing with geotechnical and petroleum engineering problems involving stiff clays or soft claystones. The application in Praclay Gallery excavation in natural Boom clay well demonstrates the validity of the present solution.
What convinces donors? An analysis of donation‐based crowdfunding projects from nonprofit charities: The case of South Korea
Authors: Kim Soobin , Kang Chulhee , Engel Rafael
Published: December 2021

Despite the potential usefulness of donation‐based crowdfunding as a fundraising tool for nonprofit social welfare organizations, academic understanding of what leads to a successful campaign is limited. Drawing on an information processing model, this research analyzes 889 donation‐based crowdfunding campaigns undertaken by nonprofit social welfare organizations using HappyBean, the most representative crowdfunding platform in South Korea. This study examines whether different types of project information influence the percentage of individual donors giving to the campaign's funding goal. Results show that the emotional impression of a campaign title, visual information, message quality, and message contents are significantly related to the extent of crowdfunding success. This study provides recommendations for nonprofit social welfare organizations to improve the way in which they operate crowdfunding campaigns and communicate with potential funders.
Study on mechanical properties and antifriction of calcium powder filled rubber
Authors: Han Deshang , Yan Gang , Li Shaoming , Pan Yi , Chen Yihui , Wang Chuansheng , Liu Haichao
Published: December 2021

Studies show that long‐term operation of the rubber mixer results in wear at the end face of the mixer. End face wear increases the gap between the mixing chamber and the end face, which results in leakage and reduces the mixing performance, thereby affecting the quality of the final product. Therefore, it is of significant importance to investigate the wear of metal face during the mixing process. In the present study, calcium powder was added to the rubber compound using a mechanical blender to obtain a composite material. Then the influence of the calcium powder on metal friction and wear of the end face of the mixer was analyzed. The obtained results show that the calcium powder has anti‐friction properties, which can greatly reduce the compound wear on the metal. The lowest corrosion and wear of the compound on the metal was achieved with 5 phr of calcium powder. Meanwhile, it is found that the tensile and tear‐resistance properties of the compound with 5 phr of calcium powder are slightly lower than those without calcium powder. However, the compound with 5 phr of calcium powder has higher friction, cold resistance, wet slip resistance, and lower rolling resistance.
Research on mechanical and erosion behavior of stepped polymeric functionally graded materials reinforced with aluminum
Authors: Boggarapu Vasavi , L. Ruthik , Adapa Sunil , Kanakam Rakesh , Ojha Shakuntla , Gujjala Raghavendra
Published: December 2021

The aim of this research is to evaluate the mechanical and erosion characteristics of stepped polymeric functionally graded materials (PFGMs) reinforced with aluminum particles. By varying the filler content, gradation is achieved along the sample's thickness direction. Three distinct methodologies were adopted in the fabrication of PFGMs; no curing time between the layers (M1), providing curing time between the layers at room temperature (M2) and thermal curing between the layers at 60°C (M3). The results showed that tensile strength and compressive strength of sample M3 increased by 30.3%, 20.8% and 10.3%, 5% as compared to M1 and M2 respectively. The flexural strength of M3 was enhanced by 9% when load direction was from top to bottom (T‐B) than from bottom to top (B‐T). Moreover, the erosion resistance of M3 was higher among all the test samples.
Dissection Method of Solid Rocket Motor Chamber Based on Ultrasonic Vibration Sawing
Authors: Guo Yu , Shen Zhibin , Li Haiyang , Cui Huiru
Published: December 2021

Overall dissection and in situ sampling are the most direct and reliable ways to obtain the storage performance degradation of solid rocket motors. However, mechanical cutting poses serious safety risks because grains are regarded as a chemical product. Ultrasonic vibration sawing of diamond wires can be performed in a wide variety of materials. Moreover, this mechanism has a low cutting force and a high cutting precision, produces narrow slits and leads to a low rise in cutting temperature. Thus, this method has application prospects in comprehensive engine dissection. In this work, the main material physical characteristics of the chamber of a nonmetallic case motor were analysed. A four‐parameter orthogonal experimental study with an infrared temperature measurement as the control parameter was conducted. The safety parameters during the shell cutting were preliminary determined. The cutting temperature inside the solid propellant block was measured with an embedded microthermocouple. The cutting process parameters were then checked. The safety of the method was further verified by simulating the motor chamber via an integrated sawing test. Results showed that the ultrasonic vibration sawing method has the advantages of fast cutting speed, low increase in cutting temperature, produces a flat cutting surface and does not lead to stratification in the cutting interface when dissecting the chamber of the nonmetallic case motor. Moreover, this method has potential applications in the engineering practice of storage life research in solid rocket motors.
Relating vibrational energy with Kekulé‐ and Clar‐structure‐based parameters
Authors: Radenković Slavko , Redžepović Izudin , Đorđević Slađana , Furtula Boris , Tratnik Niko , Žigert Pleteršek Petra
Published: December 2021

For all possible catacondensed Kekuléan molecules having four, five, and six hexagons, the molecular vibrational energies were calculated within the harmonic approximation at the HF, B3LYP, and M06‐2X levels of theory in combination with the 6‐311G(d,p) basis set. The obtained vibrational energies were found to be a linear function of the Kekulé structure count K within the sets of isomeric molecules. By employing the recently introduced generalized Zhang–Zhang polynomial, it was shown that the molecular vibrational energies can be related to the Clar‐structure‐based parameters. The obtained approximate formulas can accurately reproduce the vibrational energies with an average absolute error less than 1 kJ/mol. In addition, these formulas can provide further details on the structural dependence of molecular vibrational energies.
A rare case of urachal carcinoma with multiple lung metastasis that required differentiation from primary lung carcinoma
Authors: Suzuki Kentaro , Kai Yoshiro , Matsuda Masayuki , Horimoto Kazuhide , Iwai Kazunori , Takano Masato , Yoshii Masahito , Muro Shigeo
Published: December 2021

Urachal carcinoma is a rare malignancy of all bladder carcinomas. Metastatic lung tumours showing multiple nodules are rare without a local recurrence. We describe a case of multiple metastatic lung cancer from urachal carcinoma that required differentiation from primary lung cancer.
Optimal consensus for uncertain high‐order multi‐agent systems by output feedback
Authors: Tang Yutao , Zhu Kui
Published: December 2021

The distributed optimal output consensus problem for high‐order multi‐agent systems has been studied recently. In this article, we further focus on the same problem for high‐order multi‐agent systems subject to parametric uncertainties and aim at distributed robust controllers by measurement output feedback. We first develop a dynamic compensator to estimate the expected optimal consensus point and convert the problem into several decentralized robust tracking problems. Then, by combining the integral control technique and dirty derivative observer technique, we constructively propose a distributed output feedback integral controller to solve this problem under a mild graph connectivity condition.
α‐Tocopherol‐Conjugated, Open Chain Sugar‐Mimicking Cationic Lipids: Design, Synthesis and In–Vitro Gene Transfection Properties
Authors: Ravula Venkatesh , Muripiti Venkanna , Manthurthi Shireesha , Patri Srilakshmi V.
Published: December 2021

Sugar based cationic lipids are promising carriers of nucleic acids into various cells. Particularly, abundant hydroxyl functional groups in the sugar‐like moieties are believed to enhance target oriented uptake as well as biocompatibility. Towards this direction, we have synthesized three new cationic lipid analogues with or without sugar‐like multi‐hydroxyl functional head groups. Liposomal formulations of these lipids were developed and thoroughly characterized by means of DNA binding ability, size and zeta potential. Optimal lipid‐DNA complexes were determined by their transfection efficiency in HEK‐293 (Human embryonic kidney) cells. 1,4 gluconic γ‐lactone derived lipid (TS1) and ascorbic acid derived lipid (TS2), have exhibited 25‐fold and 12‐fold increase in transfected HEPG2 (human liver cancer) cells, respectively, when compared with a control lipid without sugar‐like moiety (TA). However, this property was reversed in the case of U87 (human primary glioblastoma) cell line. The results point out that the transfection efficiencies of sugar alcohol‐based cationic lipids are cell‐dependant. Cytotoxicity of the lipid complexes revealed that the sugar‐mimicking cationic lipids are non‐toxic as ≈80 % viable cells were observed in the treated cell lines. In conclusion, the current paper adds knowledge on the sugar based cationic lipids and reiterates that these lipids could yield potential applications towards liver targeted gene delivery.
Rh(III)‐Catalyzed Oxidative Annulation of 2‐Arylindazoles with β‐Ketosulfoxonium Ylides
Authors: Chidrawar Ajay , Devulapally Yogananda Chary , Balasubramanian Sridhar , Basireddy Venkata Subba Reddy
Published: December 2021

The Rh(III)‐catalyzed ortho‐C−H bond functionalization of 2‐aryl indazoles with β‐ketosulfoxonium ylides has been developed for the synthesis of 6‐arylindazolo[2,3‐a]quinoline derivatives in good to excellent yields with a broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance. The reaction proceeds through a sequential ortho‐alkylation followed by cyclodehydration. The combination of 5 mol% of Cp*Rh(III) and 40 mol% AgSbF6 was found to be effective for this conversion.
Design, Synthesis and Antibacterial Studies of 1,3,4‐Oxadiazole‐Fluoroquinolone Hybrids and Their Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Yang Ping , Luo Jia‐Bao , Zhang Li‐Lei , Wang Ying‐Si , Xie Xiao‐Bao , Shi Qing‐Shan , Zhang Xin‐Guo
Published: December 2021

A series of novel hybrids built on fluoroquinolone skeleton were synthesized by introducing 1,3,4‐oxadiazole derivatives to the C‐7 site of ciprofloxacin or norfloxacin. In vitro antibacterial evaluation showed that hybrids 4 b–d (5‐(hydroxyphenyl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl substituted ciprofloxacin) were an increased activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ≤0.125 μg/mL, four times superior to the parent drug. Hybrids 4 b–e (4 e, 5‐(4‐(trifluoromethyl) phenyl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl substituted ciprofloxacin) also exhibited significant activity against methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA), resistant to the parent drug. All the hybrids demonstrated a bactericidal effect on standard bacteria with the MBC value not exceeding four times of their corresponding MIC values. In time‐killing assays, 4 c demonstrated a superior bactericidal action in eradicating S. aureus and E. coli within 2 h, respectively, equipotent to ciprofloxacin. In the molecular docking study, hybrids 4 c exhibited a high binding affinity for type IV topoisomerase with a minimum binding energy of −10.2 kcal/mol.
Synthesis and Cell Imaging of Graphene Quantum Dots from Konjac Glucomannan
Authors: Kang Huiting , Zhang Lilei , Hu Sheng , Guan Lianxiong , Liu Wei , Tian Dating
Published: December 2021

Green photoluminescent graphene quantum dots (GQDs) were synthesized from konjac glucomannan (KGM), which is a natural polysaccharide, by a one‐step hydrothermal method. The resultant GQDs were characterized by various methods such as elemental analysis, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffractometry, and particle size analysis. The photoluminescence properties of the products were evaluated by ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectrometry. The lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) and the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) of the products were calculated and verified by cyclic voltammetry. A cytotoxicity test indicated that the GQDs prepared from KGM had good biocompatibility. Moreover, the GQDs had excellent cell imaging performance, which suggests that the resultant products are promising candidates for biomedicine.
α‐Substituted Chalcones: A Key Review
Authors: Al‐Rifai Nafisah M. , Mubarak Mohammad S.
Published: December 2021

Chalcones are attractive chemical motifs with various biological activities. Aryl substituted chalcones have been extensively studied and reviewed through the years. However, α‐substituted chalcones have rarely been investigated. Hence, this review highlights the α‐substituted chalcones: their synthetic routes, reported biological activities, and transformations to other organic compounds. To the best of our knowledge, this would be the first comprehensive review about α‐substituted chalcones. α‐Substitution of chalcones represents a promising approach to tune their reactivity since it has a direct influence on their activity as Michael acceptors. Additionally, α‐substitution has its effect on the structure and conformation of chalcones. Altering the reactivity of chalcones by α‐substitution has a great impact on their biological activity.
Fatigue Resistant Aerogel/Hydrogel Nanostructured Hybrid for Highly Sensitive and Ultrabroad Pressure Sensing
Authors: Huang Jiankun , Zeng Jingbin , Zhang Xue , Guo Gengchen , Liu Rui , Yan Zifeng , Yin Yadong
Published: December 2021

Achieving high sensitivity over a broad pressure range remains a great challenge in designing piezoresistive pressure sensors due to the irreconcilable requirements in structural deformability against extremely high pressures and piezoresistive sensitivity to very low pressures. This work proposes a hybrid aerogel/hydrogel sensor by integrating a nanotube structured polypyrrole aerogel with a polyacrylamide (PAAm) hydrogel. The aerogel is composed of durable twined polypyrrole nanotubes fabricated through a sacrificial templating approach. Its electromechanical performance can be regulated by controlling the thickness of the tube shell. A thicker shell enhances the charge mobility between tube walls and thus expedites current responses, making it highly sensitive in detecting low pressure. Moreover, a nucleotide‐doped PAAm hydrogel with a reversible noncovalent interaction network is harnessed as the flexible substrate to assemble the aerogel/hydrogel hybrid sensor and overcome sensing saturation under extreme pressures. This highly stretchable and self‐healable hybrid polymer sensor exhibits linear response with high sensitivity (Smin > 1.1 kPa−1), ultrabroad sensing range (0.12–≈400 kPa), and stable sensing performance over 10 000 cycles at the pressure of 150 kPa, making it an ideal sensing device to monitor pressures from human physiological signals to significant stress exerted by vehicles.
Plasmonic 3D Self‐Folding Architectures via Vacuum Microforming
Authors: Yu Ye , Lorenz Pierre , Strobel Carsten , Zajadacz Joachim , Albert Matthias , Zimmer Klaus , Kirchner Robert
Published: December 2021

3D self‐folding microarchitectures have been studied enormously since the past decade, because of the potential of utilizing the third dimension to reach a new level of device integration. However, incorporating various functionalities is a great challenge, due to the limited folding force and choice of materials. In particular, self‐folding microarchitectures with advanced optical properties have yet to be demonstrated. Here, a unique folding technique is developed, namely vacuum microforming, successfully demonstrating the self‐folding of microcubes that can be completed within 30 ms, a few orders of magnitudes faster as compared to various established strategies reported so far. Simultaneously, a metal–insulator–metal (MIM) plasmonic nanostructure is fabricated, invoking strong gap plasmon to obtain a wide and robust angle‐independent optical behavior and high environmental sensitivity that is close to the theoretical limit. It is successfully proven that such superb plasmonic properties are well preserved in 3D architectures throughout the folding process. The nanofabrication method together with the self‐folding strategy not only provide the fastest folding process so far, compatible for high‐volume fabrication, but also create new opportunities in integrating various functionalities, more specifically, optical properties for untethered optical sensing and identification.
Fill Factor Assessment in Hole Selective Layer Free Carbon Electrode‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells with 15.5% Certified Power Conversion Efficiency
Authors: Zouhair Salma , Luo Bin , Bogachuk Dmitry , Martineau David , Wagner Lukas , Chahboun Adil , Glunz Stefan W. , Hinsch Andreas
Published: December 2021

Carbon‐electrode‐based perovskite solar cells (C‐PSCs) are promising candidates for commercialization due to their high stability. However, the absence of a hole selective layer (HSL) often limits their performance, yielding low fill factors (FFs). Herein, a certified FF of 78.8% obtained through HSL‐free C‐PSCs is focused. This is found to approach the highest values reported for metal‐electrode‐based PSCs employing highly selective HSLs. The loss mechanisms affecting the FF in fully printed HSL‐free C‐PSCs are thus investigated. Methods commonly used to analyze and quantify the impact of recombination and transport losses on the FF of established photovoltage devices are assessed, and their applicability in C‐PSCs is examined. In the improved devices, non‐radiative recombination contributes to only 3%abs loss with respect to the FF in the radiative limit, which is attributed to an optimal diode ideality factor approaching 1.0. Moreover, contributions of shunt resistive losses are determined to be negligible. Interfacial series resistance losses at the perovskite/carbon interface are identified as the main loss channel, highlighting the importance of the quality of the contact between the perovskite and the back‐contact electrode.
High Vapor Transport Deposition: A Novel Process to Develop Cu2ZnSn(SxSe1–x)4 Thin Film Solar Cells
Authors: Delgado-Sanchez Jose Maria , Lillo-Bravo Isidoro
Published: December 2021

Kesterite thin film solar cells are known to be a promising cost‐effective solution because they are based on earth‐abundant and environmental compounds. However, it is known that their best efficiency (12.6%) has not been improved since 2013, meanwhile other thin‐film solar cells have demonstrated that their performance has been enhanced continuously. The main drawbacks to explain this situation is the narrow process window of this compound and simultaneously, the high composition and thermal control needed to avoid intrinsic defects in the p‐type layer. The high vapor transport deposition process has not been explored yet by kesterite thin film solar cell developers. Herein, we present the results obtained using a design of a new vacuum deposition method similar to close space sublimation, which reported excellent results in CdTe. The main advantages of this novel process are: 1) to achieve a high deposition rate; 2) to be able to deposit precursor materials and to carry out the sulfur‐selenization in the same process chamber, avoiding the two steps used in the sequential process; 3) to provide a high accuracy in the chemical composition control; and 4) simple design using commercial components to facilitate its scalability for large production.
Efficient and Stable Wide‐Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cells Derived from a Thermodynamic Phase‐Pure Intermediate
Authors: Yu Fan , Liu Jian , Huang Jiahao , Xu Pan , Li Cheng-Hui , Zheng You-Xuan , Tan Hairen , Zuo Jing-Lin
Published: December 2021

Wide‐bandgap perovskites based on alloying cesium and formamidinium lead mixed halides (Cs
x
FA1–x
Pb(I
y
Br1–y
)3) have received great attention due to their potential application in high‐efficiency tandem solar cells. However, the fast crystallization of Cs
x
FA1–x
Pb(I
y
Br1–y
)3 perovskite films results in a high trap density and hinders the further enhancement of the photovoltaic performance. Herein, an intermediate engineering is developed to retard the fast crystallization of Cs0.17FA0.83PbI1.8Br1.2 wide‐bandgap perovskite by adding FACl in the precursor solution. The introduction of the FACl additive leads to the formation of a thermodynamic phase‐pure intermediate which facilitates the further crystallization of a high‐quality perovskite thin film at elevated temperature and thus enhances the ultimate device performance. The champion device achieves an efficiency over 19% and exhibits 83.8% retention after 50 days aging without encapsulation.
A Trifluoroethoxyl Functionalized Spiro‐Based Hole‐Transporting Material for Highly Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Yuan Ligang , Li Bin , Luo Huiming , Wang Sijing , Li Zhijun , Xing Yifan , Wang Jiarong , Dong Peng , Guo Kunpeng , Wang Zhongqiang , Yan Keyou
Published: December 2021

It is crucial to finely optimize the properties of hole transport materials (HTMs) to improve the performance and stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, a new spiro‐based HTM (Spiro‐4TFETAD) is developed by replacement of partial methoxy groups in Spiro‐OMeTAD with trifluoroethoxy substituents. Spiro‐4TFETAD has lower highest occupied molecular orbital level, higher thermal stability (Tg = 140 °C), hole mobility (2.04 × 10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1), and better hydrophobicity with respect to Spiro‐OMeTAD. The PSCs using Spiro‐4TFETAD achieve a power conversion efficiency of 21.11% and excellent humidity resistance. It maintains an average 83% of their initial power conversion efficiency values even in high relative humidity of 60% without encapsulation and 82% of its initial performance after 100 h continuous illumination at the maximum power point. The superior performance underscores the promising potential of the trifluoroethoxyl molecular design in preparing new HTMs toward highly efficient and stable PSCs.
Experimental and numerical study of the flexural capacity of reinforced concrete Vierendeel beams
Authors: Lu Hongna , Zhang Huagang , Ma Kejian , Li Li , Chen Hongniao , Wu Qin , Jiang Lan
Published: December 2021

A reinforced concrete vierendeel beam (RCVB) is an open‐web structure formed by connecting the top and bottom chords through block‐shaped shear keys. In this study, the static load test was applied to understand the failure state and reinforcement ratios relationship with bending capacity of RCVBs. The results reveal that numbers of horizontal cracks appeared in the chord‐key node area of the bending‐shear section. The deflection development of specimens experienced elastic, elastic–plastic, and plastic stages. The failure of the beam was controlled by the deflection and the ultimate load increased with the reinforcement ratio. A combined model for calculating the bending capacity of the top chords under eccentric compression and the bottom chords under axial tension is proposed. With the measured strains the loading coefficient of the beams are 1.15–1.20. According to the Chinese code, the continuous loading after the longitudinal reinforcement of the bottom chord yielding can make the top chord concrete reach the ultimate compressive strain, and the loading coefficient of the beams are 1.1–1.2. Therefore, the proposed model and formulas can effectively calculate the flexural bearing capacity of RCVBs. The finite element analysis results further indicate that the proposed calculation model and algorithm are appropriate.
The Unit Assessment Project (UAP): Developing a student's professional identity through course design
Authors: Lambert Ann , Martin Christopher , Yordy Morgan , Parker Francine
Published: December 2021

This article describes a collaborative learning activity between students and nurse managers to develop a student's professional role.
Assessment of professional identity formation: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Garza Kimberly B. , Moseley Lindsey E. , Ford Channing R.
Published: December 2021

This final chapter will discuss challenges of assessing PIF, available assessment tools, and future directions.
Resurrecting Science Education by Re-Inserting Women, Nature, and Complexity
Authors: Gilbert Jane
Published: December 2021

The development of capitalism and then science over the last 500 years or so has produced a very specific way of organising the relations between humans and the rest of nature. Both depend on excluding—and “cheapening”—women, nature, and complexity. This chapter argues that surviving the crisis of the Anthropocene requires us to do the very difficult work of bringing these excluded categories back in to science and science education, at the conceptual level at which they are excluded. The case is made for deconstruction as a framework for envisaging—and resurrecting—science education for the Anthropocene. Drawing on the work of Luce Irigaray, the chapter outlines a pedagogy involving a three-level, deconstructive reading of science texts that is designed to open spaces for thinking “other”-wise. It argues that, in the current context, unlike business-as-usual science education, this approach is genuinely “educative.”
Introduction
Authors: Oehl Maximilian Eduard
Published: December 2021

Today, we are living in a world of globalised markets. Close to no value creation would be possible without the use of natural resources, more precisely primary commodities. The Sustainable Development (SD) agenda has become the universally accepted political agenda of our time. In view of the important challenges for global resource management, which will be elucidated throughout the course of this book, the field of Global Commodity Governance (GCG) has emerged over the past two decades. It describes a new turn in human history: towards a coordinated, transnational approach to regulating the complexities of commodity activity.
Conceptualising TCL
Authors: Oehl Maximilian Eduard
Published: December 2021

This chapter first shares additional thoughts on the purpose and legitimacy (Sect. 3.1) of our conceptualisation of TCL before presenting the organisational framework of TCL (Sect. 3.2) as well as the sources, structure, and application of its normative substance (Sect. 3.3).
Symmetric space λ-model exchange algebra from 4d holomorphic Chern-Simons theory
Authors: Schmidtt David M.
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We derive, within the Hamiltonian formalism, the classical exchange algebra of a lambda deformed string sigma model in a symmetric space directly from a 4d holomorphic Chern-Simons theory. The explicit forms of the extended Lax connection and R-matrix entering the Maillet bracket of the lambda model are explained from a symmetry principle. This approach, based on a gauge theory, may provide a mechanism for taming the non-ultralocality that afflicts most of the integrable string theories propagating in coset spaces.
Morphometric analysis of the lumbar vertebrae and intervertebral discs in relation to abdominal aorta: CT-based study
Authors: Kot Anna , Polak Jarosław , Klepinowski Tomasz , Frączek Maciej J. , Krzyżewski Roger M. , Grochowska Anna , Popiela Tadeusz J. , Kwinta Borys M.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Although lumbar discectomy is the most common procedure in spine surgery, reports about anatomical relations between discs and prevertebral vessels are limited. Aim of this research was to investigate morphometric of the lumbar region and the relations between intervertebral discs (IVDs) and abdominal aorta.

Methods

557 abdominal computed tomography scans were assessed. For each spinal column level from Th12/L1 down to L4/L5, we investigated: intervertebral disc’s and vertebra’s height, width, length, and distance from aorta or common iliac artery (CIA). Those arteries were also measured in two dimensions and classified based on location.

Results

54.58% of patients were male. There was a significant difference in arterial-disc distances (ADDs) between genders at the levels: L1/L2 (1.32 ± 1.97 vs. 0.96 ± 1.78 mm; p = 0.0194), L2/L3 (1.97 ± 2.16 vs. 1.15 ± 2.01 mm; p < 0.0001), L3/L4 (2.54 ± 2.78 vs. 1.71 ± 2.61 mm; p = 0.0012), also for both CIAs (left CIA 3.64 ± 3.63 vs. 2.6 ± 3.06 mm; p = 0.0004 and right CIA: 7.96 ± 5.06 vs. 5.8 ± 4.57 mm; p < 0.001)—those ADDs were higher in men at all levels. The length and width of IVD increased alongside with disc level with the maximum at L4/L5.

Conclusion

Bifurcations of the aorta in most cases occurred at the L4 level. Collected data suggest that at the highest lumbar levels, there is a greater possibility to cause injury of the aorta due to its close anatomical relationship with discs. Females have limited, in comparison to males, ADD at L1/L2, L2/L3, and L3/L4 levels what should be taken into consideration during preoperative planning of surgical intervention.
Internetberatung und Psychotherapie: reflektierte Erfahrungen von Psychotherapeut_innen und Klient_innen
Authors: Finger-Ossinger Margarete
Published: December 2021

Internetberatung ist in Österreich durch die Internetrichtlinie für Psychotherapeut_innen festgelegt, jedoch erlaubt diese nicht die psychotherapeutische Behandlung mittels Medien. Es wird darauf hingewiesen, dass derzeit keine Psychotherapie via Internet eines wissenschaftlich begründeten und evaluierten Vorgehens existiert. Interessen dies zu ändern, gibt es schon seit Jahren; die Herausforderung des Lockdown in der Covid19-Krise haben es – zumindest zeitbeschränkt – möglich gemacht, psychotherapeutische Behandlung mittels Medien durchzuführen.

Die reflektierten Erfahrungen, die Psychotherapeut_innen und Klient_innen mit dieser ausnahmsweise gewährten Form von Psychotherapie gemacht haben, können ein kleiner Beitrag dazu sein, herauszufinden, ob Psychotherapie – weitere Forschung vorausgesetzt – auch mittels Internet oder Telefon stattfinden sollte, welche Faktoren zu beachten sind oder ob optimale Krankenbehandlung immer unmittelbar, im engeren Verständnis dieses Wortes, fachlich vertretbar ist.