bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Heat Treatment on Fracture Behavior of AISI 630 Alloy Manufactured by Directed Energy Deposition
Authors: Wang Tao , Meng Kun , Liu Xingyu , Chen Siyu , Zhang Jinjun , Shi Chuan
Published: January 2023

AISI 630 alloy is widely used in the manufacture of CFM56 series aeroengine fan casing because of its high strength and excellent ductility. Herein, AISI 630 alloy is directly manufactured by directed energy deposition. The microstructural evolution, mechanical properties, and fracture behavior of AISI 630 alloy in as‐deposition, solution, and aging conditions are analyzed. Scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and electron backscattering diffraction are used to characterize the microstructure and phase characteristics. Mechanical tensile and Vickers hardness tests are performed. The results show that the samples as‐deposited, solution, and solution and aging samples are all composed of α phase and small amount γ phase, where γ phase proportions are 10.6%, 0.2%, and 10.8%, respectively. Due to transformation‐induced plasticity effect, the as‐deposited specimens have the highest strain hardening coefficient (0.410–0.432), which results in the tensile strength of 1121–1143 MPa, the yield strength of 279–293 MPa, and the fracture elongation of 14.9%. After solution and aging treatment, the tensile strength is increased by about 8% (1206–1239 MPa), the elongation at break is decreased by about 30% (9.6–11.4%), and the yield strength is increased by more than one time (740–907 MPa).
“Duet‐Insurance” Eutectic Electrolytes for Zinc‐Ion Capacitor Pouch Cells
Authors: Lu Xuejun , Tao Li , Qu Keqi , Amardeep Amardeep , Liu Jian
Published: January 2023

Eutectic electrolytes are emerging to be explored to meet the high demand for aqueous zinc‐ion capacitors (AZICs) due to their high electrochemical stability and environmental‐friendly feature. Notably, a large‐scale requirement for a practical AZIC has been addressed to balance decent performance and increase package size. Thus, a “duet‐insurance” eutectic electrolyte (DIEE) is proposed by introducing successively heavy water (D2O) and dimethyl sulfoxide in an aqueous chaotropic Zn salt solution, which hindered the severe irreversibility of Zn anodes compared to that lacking this dual‐solvent protection. For example, the optimal DIEE delivered a high capacitance of 352.9 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and excellent capacitance retention of ≈100% over 30,000 cycles at 2 A g−1 implementing in pouch cells and showing the ability to operate at a low temperature. Besides, experimental (e.g., nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, electric double‐layer capacitance, etc.) and theoretical techniques (e.g., molecular dynamics simulation, density functional theory) illustrate the vital presence of contact ion pairs and aggregates ion species. Ultimately, this efficient DIEE system employing “duet‐insurance” protections provides a promising direction for designing novel eutectic electrolytes for AZICs chemistries.
Bio‐Inspired Semi‐Active Safeguarding Design with Enhanced Impact Resistance via Shape Memory Effect
Authors: Wang Wenhui , Wang Sheng , Zhou Jianyu , Deng Huaxia , Sun Shuaishuai , Xue Tian , Ma Yuqian , Gong Xinglong
Published: January 2023

Inspired by creatures reducing impact damage, a novel semi‐active protection strategy to enhance impact resistance through structural adjustment is proposed. The heat‐activated shape memory composites (PCLE) consisting of polycaprolactone (PCL) and shear stiffening elastomer are first prepared. The PCLE with 50 wt.% PCL (PCLE‐50%) presents tensile strength of 0.46 MPa, fracture strain of 148%, high shape fixity and recovery rates (97.9% and 91.1%), and stable shape‐memory repeatability. Furthermore, various PCLE‐50%‐based structures are fabricated, which show reinforced anti‐impact performance after shape‐shifting. Loading from 300 mm, the maximum drop hammer impact force of no protection, PCLE‐50%, and deformed assembled single‐branch structure are 3.98 kN, 1.75 kN, and 0.93 kN, respectively. Additionally, assembled complex structures also exhibit exceptional energy absorption properties. Ultimately, intelligent clothing is successfully manufactured. Besides good anti‐impact effect, the clothing shows excellent thermal insulation capabilities whose surface temperature is 31.7 °C after heating for 600 s at 42 °C. This study provides an innovative means to develop deformable, wearable, and intelligent protective devices.
Deciphering Electrolyte Selection for Electrochemical Reduction of Carbon Dioxide and Nitrogen to High‐Value‐Added Chemicals
Authors: Ni Jiajie , Cheng Qiyang , Liu Sisi , Wang Mengfan , He Yanzheng , Qian Tao , Yan Chenglin , Lu Jianmei
Published: January 2023

Electrochemical reduction of CO2 (CO2RR) and nitrogen (NRR) constitute alternatives to fossil fuel‐based technologies for the production of high‐value‐added chemicals. Yet their practical application is still hampered by the low energy and Faradaic efficiencies although numerous efforts have been paid to overcome the fatal shortcomings. To date, most studies have focused on designing and developing advanced electrocatalysts, while the understanding of electrolyte, which would significantly influence the reaction microenvironment, are still not enough to provide insight to construct highly active and selective electrochemical systems. Here, a comprehensive review of the different electrolytes participating in the CO2RR and NRR is provided, including acidic, neutral, alkaline, and water‐in‐salt electrolyte as aqueous electrolytes, as well as organic electrolyte, ionic‐liquids electrolyte, and the mixture of the two as non‐aqueous electrolytes. Through the discussion of the roles of these various electrolytes, it is aimed to grasp their essential function during the electrochemical process and how these functions can be used as design parameters for improving electrocatalytic performance. Finally, priorities for future studies are suggested to support the in‐depth understanding of the electrolyte effects and thus guide efficient selection for next‐generation gas‐involving electrochemical reactions.
Personalized Bacteria Loaded with Autoantigens for the Enhancement of Tumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Wu Chenghu , He Wenjuan , Chen Yue , Cai Jie , Zeng Fanjun , Lu Zidong , Wang Jilong
Published: January 2023

Currently, tumor immunotherapy is becoming a new revolution in tumor treatment. Generated from tumor cell lysate (TCL) or irradiated tumor cells, the whole tumor antigen‐based vaccines have the possibility to enhance antitumor immune response without survival from immune surveillance in personalized immunotherapy. Here, polydopamine nanoparticles (PDA NPs) after self‐polymerization are covalently coated with TCL to form PDA@CL. Engineered Salmonella (EnS) wrapped with PDA@CL (EnS@PDA@CL) is targeted the localization of the tumor site by intravenous administration. EnS@PDA@CL delivered autologous antigen‐containing nanoparticles to tumor hypoxia regions through blood circulation. The PDA@CL particles promote the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs), thus eliciting the infiltration of whole tumor antigens specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes, significantly triggering antitumor immunity. The tumor regression in the Panc02 mice confirms the therapeutic potential of EnS@PDA@CL in clinical personalized immunotherapy.
Antifibrotic Effects of Tetrahedral Framework Nucleic Acids by Inhibiting Macrophage Polarization and Macrophage–Myofibroblast Transition in Bladder Remodeling
Authors: Wang Wei , Xiao Dexuan , Lin Lede , Gao Xiaoshuai , Peng Liao , Chen Jiawei , Xiao Kaiwen , Zhu Shiyu , Chen Jixiang , Zhang Fuxun , Xiong Yang , Chen Huiling , Liao Banghua , Zhou Liang , Lin Yunfeng
Published: January 2023

Bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) is a prevalent condition arising from urethral stricture, posterior urethral valves, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Long‐term obstruction can lead to bladder remodeling, which is characterized by inflammatory cell infiltration, detrusor hypertrophy, and fibrosis. Until now, there are no efficacious therapeutic options for BOO‐induced remodeling. Tetrahedral framework nucleic acids (tFNAs) are a type of novel 3D DNA nanomaterials that possess excellent antifibrotic effects. Here, to determine the treatment effects of tFNAs on BOO‐induced remodeling is aimed. Four single‐strand DNAs are self‐assembled to form tetrahedral framework DNA nanostructures, and the antifibrotic effects of tFNAs are investigated in an in vivo BOO animal model and an in vitro transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF‐β1)‐induced fibrosis model. The results demonstrated that tFNAs could ameliorate BOO‐induced bladder fibrosis and dysfunction by inhibiting M2 macrophage polarization and the macrophage–myofibroblast transition (MMT) process. Furthermore, tFNAs regulate M2 polarization and the MMT process by deactivating the signal transducer and activator of transcription (Stat) and TGF‐β1/small mothers against decapentaplegic (Smad) pathways, respectively. This is the first study to reveal that tFNAs might be a promising nanomaterial for the treatment of BOO‐induced remodeling.
Photoredox‐Promoted Co‐Production of Dihydroisoquinoline and H2O2 over Defective Zn3In2S6
Authors: Luo Juanjuan , Wei Xinfa , Qiao Yang , Wu Chenyao , Li Lanxin , Chen Lisong , Shi Jianlin
Published: January 2023

One of the most sustainable and promising approaches for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production in a low‐cost and environment‐friendly way is photosynthesis, which, however, suffers from poor carrier utilization and low H2O2 productivity. The addition of proton donors such as isopropanol or ethanol can increase H2O2 production, which, unfortunately, will inevitably elevate the entire cost while wasting the oxidizing power of holes (h+). Herein, the tetrahydroisoquinolines (THIQs) is employed as a distinctive proton donor for the thermodynamically feasible and selective semi‐dehydrogenation reaction to highly valuable dihydroisoquinolines (DHIQs), and meanwhile, to couple with and promote H2O2 generation in one photoredox reaction under the photocatalysis by dual‐functional Zn3In2S6 photocatalyst. Surprisingly, the suitably defective Zn3In2S6 offers an excellent and near‐stoichiometric co‐production performance of H2O2 and DHIQs at unprecedentedly high rates of 66.4 and 62.1 mmol h‐1 g‐1 under visible light (λ ≥ 400 nm), respectively, which outperforms all the previously available reports even though sacrificial agents were employed in those reports. Additionally, photocatalytic redox reaction mechanism demonstrates that H2O2 can be generated through multiple pathways, highlighting the synergistic effect among ROS (·O2‐ and 1O2), h+ and proton donor, which has been ignored in previous studies.
Pt‐Anchored‐Zirconium Phosphate Nanoplates as High‐Durable Carbon‐Free Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalyst for PEM Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Kumar Sachin , Yoyakki Athira , Pandikassala Ajmal , Soni Roby , Kurungot Sreekumar
Published: January 2023

Commercially available platinum‐supported carbon (Pt/C) catalysts are the most widely used oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). However, inadequate active triple‐phase boundary formation and carbon oxidation in Pt/C during PEMFC operation shorten its lifetime and efficiency. In this direction, a new class of carbon‐free electrocatalysts for ORR is prepared by dispersing Pt nanoparticles on ZrP (Zirconium phosphates) nanoplates. In one case (ZrP@Pt), the Pt nanoparticles are found to be closely distributed and completely covering the ZrP nanoplates, whereas in the second case (Pt/ZrP), the Pt nanoparticles selectively restrict dispersion along the edges of the support. ZrP as the support displays an intrinsic proton conductivity of ≈0.5 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 70 °C, with an activation energy (Ea) of 0.19 eV. Pt/ZrP shows better durability after 3000 start‐stop cycles. The mass activity of Pt/ZrP is increased by 4.6 times compared to Pt/C, which exhibits a loss in mass activity by 1.37 times. The single‐cell level validation of ZrP@Pt, Pt/ZrP, and Pt/C as the electrocatalysts in PEMFC at an operating potential of 0.60 V shows the achievable current densities of 0.600, 0.890, and 0.890 A cm−2.
Investigation of RBFNN Based on Improved PSO Optimization Algorithm for Performance and Emissions Prediction of a High‐Pressure Common‐Rail Diesel Engine
Authors: Wang Yuhua , Wang Guiyong , Yao Guozhong , Yang Lu , Li Jinlong , He Shuchao
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this study is improve calibration efficiency and obtain accurate diesel engine operating parameters, achieving improved diesel engine emissions and fuel efficiency. A PSO‐RBF (particle swarm optimization‐radial basis function) diesel engine performance prediction model combining an improved PSO (particle swarm optimization algorithm and an RBF neural network is proposed. A space‐filling experimental design method for diesel engine performance prediction is proposed based on the actual operating conditions of diesel engines. Training data are collected at the bench to build the RBF prediction model. An optimization PSO search method is proposed to improve the PSO optimization capability. An improved PSO algorithm is used to optimize the model and improve prediction accuracy. Then the BSFC (diesel brake‐specific fuel consumption), NOx ((Nitrogen Oxid), CO (Carbon Monoxide), and HC (Hydrocarbon) prediction models are constructed. Results show that the PSO‐RBF can find the global solution with good prediction accuracy and generalization ability during small amounts of data. The PSO‐RBF model fitting degrees of BSFC, NOx, CO, and HC are 0.9952, 0.9910, 0.9820, and 0.9870 respectively. Mean relative errors are 3.02%, 2.78%, 1.39%, and 2.01% respectively. Mean absolute percentage errors are 1.58%, 3.26%, 3.69%, and 2.96% respectively. The optimized model R2 (Model determination coefficient) is improved by 0.065, 0.102, 0.10, and 0.085, respectively.
Real‐Time Dissection of the Transportation and miRNA‐Release Dynamics of Small Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Xia Hou‐Fu , Yu Zi‐Li , Zhang Li‐Juan , Liu Shu‐Lin , Zhao Yi , Huang Jue , Fu Dan‐Dan , Xie Qi‐Hui , Liu Hai‐Ming , Zhang Zhi‐Ling , Zhao Yi‐Fang , Wu Min , Zhang Wei , Pang Dai‐Wen , Chen Gang
Published: January 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell‐derived membrane‐enclosed structures that deliver biomolecules for intercellular communication. Developing visualization methods to elucidate the spatiotemporal dynamics of EVs’ behaviors will facilitate their understanding and translation. With a quantum dot (QD) labeling strategy, a single particle tracking (SPT) platform is proposed here for dissecting the dynamic behaviors of EVs. The interplays between tumor cell‐derived small EVs (T‐sEVs) and endothelial cells (ECs) are specifically investigated based on this platform. It is revealed that, following a clathrin‐mediated endocytosis by ECs, T‐sEVs are transported to the perinuclear region in a typical three‐stage pattern. Importantly, T‐sEVs frequently interact with and finally enter lysosomes, followed by quick release of their carried miRNAs. This study, for the first time, reports the entire process and detailed dynamics of T‐sEV transportation and cargo‐release in ECs, leading to better understanding of their proangiogenic functions. Additionally, the QD‐based SPT technique will help uncover more secrets of sEV‐mediated cell–cell communication.
Stabilizing Zn Metal Anodes via Cation/Anion Regulation toward High Energy Density Zn‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhao Ran , Yang Jingjing , Han Xiaomin , Wang Yahui , Ni Qiao , Hu Zhifan , Wu Chuan , Bai Ying
Published: January 2023

Aqueous zinc batteries (AZBs) are promising energy storage devices owing to their high safety, low cost, and environmental friendliness. However, energy density improvement and lifespan prolongation of AZBs are impeded by the poor reversibility of Zn anodes. Instead of focusing on restraining the water activity that has been widely discussed, this work reports a unique strategy to eliminate the side reactions, which is the simultaneous regulation of cation and anion fluxes by microporous material. The as‐synthesized protective layer possesses an excellent sieving ability to repel sulfate infiltration by channel effect and via the electric field, and homogenizes Zn ion flux to achieve a dendrite‐free morphology, which is confirmed by the electrochemical and theoretical investigations. The protected anode exhibits a long lifespan (2400 h), deep Zn plating/stripping, and high current tolerance (100 mA cm−2). As a result, the full battery achieves a capacity retention of 76.4% after 7500 cycles, and in the anode‐free configuration, a high energy density of 192.8 Wh kg−1 is observed, which is more than 50 times that of a full battery with a Zn foil anode. By regulating the cations and anions simultaneously, the proposed strategy provides a low‐cost remedy to achieve the practical scale‐up of AZBs.
Relationship between Energetic Disorder and Reduced Recombination of Free Carriers in Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Mehrdad , Wilken Sebastian , Sun Bowen , Huang Fei , Jeong Sang Young , Woo Han Young , Coropceanu Veaceslav , Shoaee Safa
Published: January 2023

Reducing non‐radiative recombination is key to achieve high fill factors (FFs) in organic solar cells. While it is generally accepted that recombination proceeds via charge transfer (CT) states at the donor:acceptor interface, the underlying principles that dictate the decay kinetics of these CT states are not yet well understood. Here, a study on the effect of energetic disorder is presented. Based on a data set of 10 representative donor:acceptor blends, clear correlations between disorder, the recombination coefficient of free charge carriers, and the non‐radiative voltage loss are found. It is suggested that a narrower distribution of CT energies leads to a longer CT decay time and thus reduces non‐radiative losses. This leads to a simultaneous improvement of the FF and open circuit voltage and highlights the importance of having materials with low energetic disorder on the way to the commercialisation of organic photovoltaics.
Strategies to Improve the Photochromic Properties and Photovoltaic Performances of Naphthopyran Dyes in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Mwalukuku Valid M. , Liotier Johan , Riquelme Antonio J. , Kervella Yann , Huaulmé Quentin , Haurez Alix , Narbey Stéphanie , Anta Juan Antonio , Demadrille Renaud
Published: January 2023

Semi‐transparent solar cells are emerging as promising devices for building integrated photovoltaics. However, regardless of the technology considered, the optical transmission of semi‐transparent solar cells is fixed during the fabrication process, and hence, cannot adjust to variations in daylight or weather conditions. This becomes an issue when applications such as photovoltaic windows are envisioned. Previously, it has been reported that the use of photochromic naphthopyran dyes in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSC) allows for the fabrication of semi‐transparent devices capable of modulating their light transmission and energy production depending on light intensity. Herein, a series of naphthopyran dyes with an identical pi‐conjugated backbone and varying alkyl substituents is reported. Using this molecular engineering strategy, the control of the discoloration kinetics of the photochromic dyes and the reduction of undesirable recombination processes when utilised in solar cells is demonstrated. The clear photochromic‐photovoltaic structure‐property relationships for these new photosensitizers is established and they are shown to demonstrate improved photovoltaic performances and photochromic responses in DSSC with notably faster discoloration than previously reported. For the first time with photochromic molecules, the co‐sensitization of the electrodes is explored and the highest power conversion efficiency for a photochromic DSSC is reported, reaching up to 4.34% under standard conditions.
Few‐shot learning for plant disease recognition: A review
Authors: Sun Jianqiang , Cao Wei , Fu Xi , Ochi Sunao , Yamanaka Takehiko
Published: January 2023

Monitoring plant diseases is essential for farmers to secure crop quantity and quality. Deep learning has recently been applied to plant disease recognition to help farmers take prompt and proper actions to prevent reductions in crop quantity and quality. Generally, deep learning requires a large‐scale dataset with supervised information annotated often by specialists. However, because collecting plant disease images in natural environments is difficult and obtaining proper annotations from specialists is costly, deep learning is infeasible for plant disease recognition tasks. Few‐shot learning (FSL) is an alternative for plant disease recognition using prior knowledge. Although FSL has attracted considerable attention, comprehensive reports on the application of FSL methods for plant disease recognition are required. Here, we introduce FSL with its applications in plant disease recognition. We begin with an overview of computer vision tasks using machine learning and FSL. We provide practical examples of FSL applications. Utilizing these practical examples, we describe different approaches for data augmentation and FSL methods of embedding, multitask learning, transfer learning, and meta‐learning. Further, we summarize how models are optimized for performance with reference to existing studies. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages are discussed, along with potential challenges for FSL applications in plant disease recognition.
Determinants of small farmers' participation in contract farming in developing countries: A study in Vietnam
Authors: Hoang Viet , Nguyen Vinh
Published: January 2023

This study aims to explore the determinants of farmers' participation in contract farming by using a qualitative approach and empirically assess the impact of the factors withdrawn from the qualitative analysis and previous studies by employing the probit model in Vietnam. The qualitative analysis illustrates 10 original factors that affect farmers' participation in contract farming, including cooperative membership, quality certifications, sale preferences, farming difficulties, technology, supporting policy and program, estimation of oversupply, market information flow, association membership, and experience of contract farming failure. The quantitative analysis provides empirical evidence that female heads, firm consulting activities, firm scales, cooperative membership, quality certifications, and good‐road locations can significantly and positively influence farmers' participation in contract farming. Cooperative membership and quality certifications are the most important factors. Contrary to the expectation, head education and good soil negatively impact farmers' participation in contract farming. Besides, bad soil can hinder farmers from participating in contract farming. [EconLit Citations: C12, L24, O13, O14, Q12, Q18].
Monkeypox‐Associated Central Nervous System Disease: A Case Series and Review
Authors: Money Kelli M. , Barnett T. Allen , Rapaka Samuel , Osborn Rebecca , Kitani Takashi , Fuguet Daniel , Amjad Faria , Clark Jeffrey R. , Chakravarty Debanjana , Copeland Matthew J. , Honce Justin M. , Kumar Princy N. , Kumar Rebecca N. , Mousa‐Ibrahim Fady , Sirdar Bilaal , Sobota Rafal , Tang Mengxuan , Bolon Maureen K. , Russell Eric J. , Wilson Michael , Tornatore Carlo , Batra Ayush , Tyler Kenneth L. , Pastula Daniel M.
Published: January 2023

Objective

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) disease has been declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization, creating an urgent need for neurologists to be able to recognize, diagnosis, and treat MPXV‐associated neurologic disease.

Methods

Three cases of MPXV‐associated central nervous system (CNS) disease occurring during the 2022 outbreak, and their associated imaging findings are presented, with 2 cases previously published in a limited capacity in a public health bulletin.

Results

Three previously healthy immunocompetent gay men in their 30s developed a febrile illness followed by progressive neurologic symptoms with presence of a vesiculopustular rash. MPXV nucleic acid was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from skin lesions of 2 patients, with the third patient having indeterminate testing but an epidemiologic link to a confirmed MPXV disease case. Cerebrospinal fluid demonstrated a lymphocytic pleocytosis, elevated protein, and negative MPXV‐specific PCR. In 2 patients, magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and spine demonstrated partially enhancing, longitudinally extensive central spinal cord lesions with multifocal subcortical, basal ganglia, thalamic, cerebellar, and/or brainstem lesions. The third patient had thalamic and basal ganglia lesions. All patients received 14 days of tecovirimat, and 2 patients also received multiple forms of immunotherapy, including intravenous immunoglobulin, pulsed high‐dose steroids, plasmapheresis, and/or rituximab. Good neurologic recovery was observed in all cases.

Interpretation

MPXV can be associated with CNS disease. It is unclear whether this is from a parainfectious immune‐mediated injury or direct CNS viral invasion. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:893–905
Dielectric, electric, and piezoelectric properties of three‐phase piezoelectric composite based on castor‐oil polyurethane, lead zirconate titanate particles and multiwall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Freire Filho Fernando C. M. , Santos Josiane A. , Sanches Alex O. , Medeiros Eliton S. , Malmonge José A. , Silva Michael J.
Published: January 2023

The effects of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the electrical, dielectric, and piezoelectric properties of the ferroelectric ceramic/castor‐oil polyurethane (PUR) composite films were evaluated. The three‐phase piezoelectric composites were produced by keeping PUR concentration constant while varying lead zirconate titanate (PZT) volume fractions between 10 and 50 vol.%, at two MWCNT concentrations: above and below percolation threshold. Thedcelectrical conductivity analysis revealed that small amounts of MWCNTs dispersed within PUR/PZT composite films can significantly improve electrical and piezoelectric properties due to their ability to act as conductive bridges between PZT particles in the samples. Using Jonscher's power law, it was possible to determine that the electrical conduction inacregime occurs through spatial charge hopping between states located within the piezoelectric composite. Analyzing the piezoelectric properties through thed33coefficient, it was found that PUR‐MWCNT/PZT piezoelectric composite displayed higherd33values (20 pC/N) in comparison to the PUR/PZT two‐phase composite (9.5 pC/N) for all PZT loadings. According to these results, the dispersion of MWCNT nanoparticles influences the poling effectiveness of the PZT particles and increases thed33coefficient of three‐phase piezoelectric composites.
Chemical engineering of electrospun nanofibrous‐based three‐layered nonwoven polymeric protective mask for enhanced performance
Authors: Ray Saikat Sinha , Soni Ritesh , Huyen Dao Thi Thanh , Ravi Srinath , Myung Suwan , Lee Chang Young , Kwon Young‐Nam
Published: January 2023

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, face masks, respirators, and personal protective equipment have become common preventive measures. However, the COVID‐19 pandemic has highlighted the lack of efficient and reusable face masks worldwide. Immense efforts have been dedicated to designing antidust and antidroplet masks to ensure safe breathing. In this context, electrospun nanofibrous layers have attracted considerable attention for the fabrication of antidust and antidroplet masks. During long‐term usage, water droplet layers can lead to pore blockages; this remains a major concern. In this study, a three‐layered sandwich structure comprising a hydrophilic spongy layer, hydrophobic support layer, and antidroplet layer was developed to address this concern. Specifically, the structure comprised polyvinylidene fluoride‐silica nanoparticles‐perfluorooctyl trichlorosilane/polyethylene/polybenzimidazole (PVDF‐Si‐NPs‐PFTOS/PET/PBI) electrospun nanofibrous layers. The PBI layer was utilized as soft, hydrophilic, skin‐friendly layer, as supported by the PET layer for better mechanical stability. In addition, PVDF coated with micro‐nano scale Si‐NPs as modified with a PFTOS nonwoven electrospun layer was used for the antifouling, antidroplet, and splash resistance capabilities. This novel electrospun nanofibrous nonwoven three‐layered sandwich structure (PVDF‐Si‐PFTOS/PET/PBI) exhibited high performance, with competitive antidroplet abilities. Accordingly, this research can be used to fabricate face masks with antidroplet and splash resistance for personal safety and protective equipment.
Macromolecular changes of vinyl ester resin after thermal oxidation
Authors: Lugli Alberto , Apchain Emilande , Richaud Emmanuel
Published: January 2023

The thermal aging of filled and unfilled vinyl ester was performed at 180°C under air and was followed at the molecular (Fourier Transform InfraRed Spectroscopy) and macromolecular (Dynamical Mechanical Analysis) scales. Aluminum trihydrate filler was observed to be stable in the investigated conditions, which simplifies the analysis of aging. At the molecular scale, oxidation is visible by the broadening of the carbonyl band, the depletion of hydroxypropyl ether, and the loss of mass. Subglassy relaxation and glass transition (Tg) of unaged samples were also characterized by dynamic mechanical analysis. After aging, a clear crosslinking mechanism was evidenced by an increase in Tg. The possible oxidation mechanisms are discussed.
Magnetocaloric Effect in Lightly‐Doped Fe5Si3 Single Crystals
Authors: Cao Guixin , Okamoto Satoshi , Guo Junjie , Specht E. D. , Ward Thomas Z. , McGuire M. A. , Budai John D. , Chisholm Matthew F. , Mandrus David , Sales Brian C. , Gai Zheng
Published: January 2023

Development of promising new materials for above room temperature magnetic cooling applications relies on careful balancing of structure and composition to maximize accessible metastable phases that can drive a strong magnetocaloric effect (MCE). However, the working temperatures of these materials may fall outside of desired application windows. In this work, it is shown that it is possible to control metastable phase stability temperatures of Fe5Si3 through selection of appropriate spin and charge doping. Here, the parent material's desired structure appears only within a narrow temperature range from 1098 to 1303 K. Doping with Mn and P is shown to allow stabilization of the parent's high temperature phase and resulting MCE to room temperature. The structural and magnetic properties, and the magnetocaloric effect of single crystal Fe4.83Mn0.16Si2.91P0.09 (FMSP) are investigated experimentally and theoretically. A first‐order magneto‐elastic transition is observed at 348 K, where magnetic onset is accompanied by a change in lattice volume without an apparent change in crystal symmetry. Although the trace Mn and P doping are found to decrease the TC, the maximum magnetic entropy change ΔSMax(T) and the relative cooling power (RCP) of FMSP are enhanced compared to polycrystalline Fe5Si3. As a result, an intrinsically broader entropy change over a larger temperature span is generated in the lightly doped single crystal of Fe5Si3. The magnetic moment of the system is also enhanced. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are performed to gain microscopic insights into the experimental findings. The results suggest that the hexagonal Fe5Si3 is a new giant room temperature MCE material that is on par with La–Fe–Si and Fe‐Mn‐P‐Si systems.
A new series of hydrazones as small‐molecule aldose reductase inhibitors
Authors: Altıntop Mehlika D. , Demir Yeliz , Türkeş Cüneyt , Öztürk Remzi B. , Cantürk Zerrin , Beydemir Şükrü , Özdemir Ahmet
Published: January 2023

In the search for small‐molecule aldose reductase (AR) inhibitors, new tetrazole‐hydrazone hybrids (1–15) were designed. An efficient procedure was employed for the synthesis of compounds 1–15. All hydrazones were subjected to an in vitro assay to assess their AR inhibitory profiles. Compounds 1–15 caused AR inhibition with Ki values ranging between 0.177 and 6.322 µM and IC50 values ranging between 0.210 and 0.676 µM. 2‐[(1‐(4‐Hydroxyphenyl)‐1H‐tetrazol‐5‐yl)thio]‐N’‐(4‐fluorobenzylidene)acetohydrazide (4) was the most potent inhibitor of AR in this series. Compound 4 markedly inhibited AR (IC50 = 0.297 µM) in a competitive manner (Ki = 0.177 µM) compared to epalrestat (Ki = 0.857 µM, IC50 = 0.267 µM). Based on the in vitro data obtained by applying the MTT test, compound 4 showed no cytotoxic activity toward normal (NIH/3T3) cells at the tested concentrations, indicating its safety as an AR inhibitor. Compound 4 exhibited proper interactions with crucial amino acid residues within the active site of AR. In silico QikProp data of all hydrazones (1–15) were also determined to assess their pharmacokinetic profiles. Taken together, compound 4 stands out as a promising inhibitor of AR for further in vivo studies.
On the longevity of behavioral interventions for challenging behavior
Authors: Scott Victoria , Saini Valdeep , Busch Louis , Solomon Nora
Published: January 2023

The capacity for a treatment to maintain its effects over time may be the most critical component of behavioral interventions for challenging behavior as treatments that fail to persist are likely to be of little value to society. We reviewed the quality and quantity of different types of post‐intervention data for the treatment of challenging behavior in studies published over the last 7 years. We found that for the majority of participants at least one measure of maintenance, fading, or follow‐up was reported but with limited information regarding the quality of those measures. Reports of secondary variables related to post‐intervention data (e.g., latency to measurement) were also uncommon. We discuss possible explanations for the paucity of post‐intervention data, barriers to obtaining post‐intervention data, strategies for obtaining these data, and implications for the external validity of behavioral interventions for challenging behavior. We provide recommendations for increasing the probability that post‐intervention data are included in applied research on challenging behavior.
Comparative analysis of the liver‐protective effects of raw and stir‐fried semen of Hovenia dulcis in rats via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry–based serum metabolomic profiling and chemometrics
Authors: Lv Pan , Zhu Fei , Lv Meiyan , Bao Jiaqi , Lv Linying , Xu Xiangwei , Tao Yi
Published: January 2023

In this study, we used a serum metabolomics methodology based on GC coupled with MS (GC–MS) to investigate the liver‐protective effects of raw and stir‐fried semen of Hovenia dulcis in rats models of carbon tetrachloride–induced liver injury. Multivariate statistical analysis, such as principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis, were performed to examine changes in the metabolic state of rats with carbon tetrachloride–induced liver injury, as well as the recovery pattern of rats pretreated with the raw and stir‐fried semen of H. dulcis. Liver tissues were subjected to histopathological examination. A total of 47 biomarkers were predicted to contribute to the dynamic pathological processes in the liver injury, such as phenylalanine, glutamic acid, glycine, arachidonic acid and linoleic acid. Further analysis revealed that pathways associated with phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, and linoleic acid metabolism were altered in the injured liver, and that pretreatment with raw and stir‐fried semen of H. dulcis abolished the changes in the aforementioned metabolic pathways.
Whole‐brain DTI parameters associated with tau protein and hippocampal volume in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Magalhães Thamires Naela Cardoso , Casseb Raphael Fernandes , Gerbelli Christian Luiz Baptista , Pimentel‐Siva Luciana Ramalho , Nogueira Mateus Henrique , Teixeira Camila Vieira Ligo , Carletti Ana Flávia Mac Knight , de Rezende Thiago Junqueira Ribeiro , Joaquim Helena Passarelli Giroud , Talib Leda Leme , Forlenza Orestes Vicente , Cendes Fernando , Balthazar Marcio Luiz Figueredo
Published: January 2023

The causes of the neurodegenerative processes in Alzheimer's disease (AD) are not completely known. Recent studies have shown that white matter (WM) damage could be more severe and widespread than whole‐brain cortical atrophy and that such damage may appear even before the damage to the gray matter (GM). In AD, Amyloid‐beta (Aβ42) and tau proteins could directly affect WM, spreading across brain networks. Since hippocampal atrophy is common in the early phase of disease, it is reasonable to expect that hippocampal volume (HV) might be also related to WM integrity. Our study aimed to evaluate the integrity of the whole‐brain WM, through diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) parameters, in mild AD and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) due to AD (with Aβ42 alteration in cerebrospinal fluid [CSF]) in relation to controls; and possible correlations between those measures and the CSF levels of Aβ42, phosphorylated tau protein (p‐Tau) and total tau (t‐Tau). We found a widespread WM alteration in the groups, and we also observed correlations between p‐Tau and t‐Tau with tracts directly linked to mesial temporal lobe (MTL) structures (fornix and hippocampal cingulum). However, linear regressions showed that the HV better explained the variation found in the DTI measures (with weak to moderate effect sizes, explaining from 9% to 31%) than did CSF proteins. In conclusion, we found widespread alterations in WM integrity, particularly in regions commonly affected by the disease in our group of early‐stage disease and patients with Alzheimer's disease. Nonetheless, in the statistical models, the HV better predicted the integrity of the MTL tracts than the biomarkers in CSF.
Genetically engineered nano‐melittin vesicles for multimodal synergetic cancer therapy
Authors: Zhang Jianzhong , Liu Xue , Xia Yutian , Xu Shuyu , Liu Xuan , Xiao Haiqing , Wang Xiaoyong , Liu Chao , Liu Gang
Published: January 2023

Melittin, the principal constituent in bee venom, is an attractive candidate for cancer therapy. However, its clinical applications are limited by hemolysis, nonspecific cytotoxicity, and rapid metabolism. Herein, a novel genetically engineered vesicular antibody‐melittin (VAM) drug delivery platform was proposed and validated for targeted cancer combination therapy. VAM generated from the cellular plasma membrane was bio‐synthetically fabricated, with the recombinant protein (hGC33 scFv‐melittin) being harbored and displayed on the cell membrane. The bioactive and targetable nanomelittin conjugated by hGC33 scFv could be released in an MMP14‐responsive manner at tumor sites, which reduced off‐target toxicity, especially the hemolytic activity of melittin. Importantly, VAM could be loaded with small‐molecule drugs or nanoparticles for combination therapy. Nanomelittin formed pores in membranes and disturbed phospholipid bilayers, which allowed the anticancer agents (i.e., chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin and sonosensitizer purpurin 18 nanoparticles) co‐delivered by VAM to penetrate deeper tumor sites, leading to synergistic therapeutic effects. In particular, the punching effect generated by sonodynamic therapy further improved the immunomodulatory effect of nanomelittin to activate the immune response. Taken together, our findings indicate that clinically translatable VAM‐based strategies represent a universal, promising approach to multimodal synergetic cancer therapy.
Topographic localization of the sacroiliac joint and superior gluteal artery branches on the posterolateral ilium
Authors: Mahato Niladri Kumar
Published: January 2023

Latrogenic vascular injuries at the posterior ilium during sacroiliac screw placements are not uncommon. Though intra‐operative imaging reduces the risk of such injuries, anatomical localization of the sacral segments using discrete topographical landmarks is not currently available. This descriptive study proposes the use of an anatomical grid system to localize the sacroiliac articulation on the posterolateral ilium. It also investigates the positional variability of the branches of the superior gluteal artery (SGA) within areas defined by the grid. 48 dried adult hip bones were examined to determine the position of the sacral articular surface on the posterolateral surface of the ilium. A novel grid‐system was defined and used to map the positions of the articulation of the first two sacral segments on the posterolateral ilium. Superficial and deep branches of the SGA were dissected in donor cadavers and their courses were virtually overlayed on the grid system. The grid system localized the sacral articular surfaces within a defined area on the posterior ilium. Arterial distributions indicated the presence of the superficial branch of SGA more frequently over the screw insertion area (at an intermuscular plane), while the deep branch ran closer to the ilium but antero‐inferior to the screw placement areas. This study proposes a new topographical perspective of visualizing SGA branches with respect to the cranial sacral segments. Precise localization of vascular anatomy may help to reduce potential risk of injury during sacroiliac screw placements.
METTL5 stabilizes c‐Myc by facilitating USP5 translation to reprogram glucose metabolism and promote hepatocellular carcinoma progression
Authors: Xia Peng , Zhang Hao , Lu Haofeng , Xu Kequan , Jiang Xiang , Jiang Yuke , Gongye Xiangdong , Chen Zhang , Liu Jie , Chen Xi , Ma Weijie , Zhang Zhonglin , Yuan Yufeng
Published: January 2023

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent cancers in the world, with a high likelihood of metastasis and a dismal prognosis. The reprogramming of glucose metabolism is critical in the development of HCC. The Warburg effect has recently been confirmed to occur in a variety of cancers, including HCC. However, little is known about the molecular biological mechanisms underlying the Warburg effect in HCC cells. In this study, we sought to better understand how methyltransferase 5, N6‐adenosine (METTL5) controls the development of HCC and the Warburg effect.

Methods

In the current study, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were used to detect the expression of METTL5 in HCC tissues and cell lines. Several different cell models and animal models were established to determine the role of METTL5 in glucose metabolism reprogramming and the underlying molecular mechanism of HCC. Glutathione‐S‐transferase pulldown, coimmunoprecipitation, RNA sequencing, non‐targeted metabolomics, polysome profiling, and luciferase reporter assays were performed to investigate the molecular mechanisms of METTL5 in HCC cells.

Results

We discovered that METTL5 drove glucose metabolic reprogramming to promote the proliferation and metastasis of HCC. Mechanistically, upregulation of METTL5 promoted c‐Myc stability and thus activated its downstream glycolytic genes lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA), enolase 1 (ENO1), triosephosphate isomerase 1 (TPI1), solute carrier family 2 member 1 (SLC2A1), and pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2). The c‐Box and ubiquitin binding domain (UBA) regions of ubiquitin specific peptidase 5 (USP5) binded to c‐Myc protein and inhibited K48‐linked polyubiquitination of c‐Myc. Further study revealed that METTL5 controled the USP5 translation process, which in turn regulated the ubiquitination of c‐Myc. Furthermore, we identified cAMP responsive element binding protein 1 (CREB1)/P300 as a critical transcriptional regulator of METTL5 that promoted the transcription of METTL5 in HCC. In patient‐derived tumor xenograft (PDX) models, adenovirus‐mediated knockout of METTL5 had a good antitumor effect and prolonged the survival of PDX‐bearing mice.

Conclusions

These findings point to a novel mechanism by which CREB1/P300‐METTL5‐USP5‐c‐Myc controls abnormal glucose metabolism and promotes tumor growth, suggesting that METTL5 is a potential therapeutic target and prognostic biomarker for HCC.
Electroporation Enhances the Anticancer Effects of Novel Cu(II) and Fe(II) Complexes in Chemotherapy‐Resistant Glioblastoma Cancer Cells
Authors: Alkis Mehmet Esref , Buldurun Kenan , Alan Yusuf , Turan Nevin , Altun Ayhan
Published: January 2023

Schiff base ligand (L) was obtained by condensation reaction between 4‐aminopyrimidin‐2(1H)‐one (cytosine) with 2‐hydroxybenzaldehyde. The synthesized Schiff base was used for complexation with Cu(II) and Fe(II) ions used by a molar (2 : 1 mmol ration) in methanol solvent. The structural features of ligand, Cu(II), and Fe(II) metal complexes were determined by standard spectroscopic methods (FT‐IR, elemental analysis, proton and carbon NMR spectra, UV/VIS, and mass spectroscopy, magnetic susceptibility, thermal analysis, and powder X‐ray diffraction). The synthesized compounds (Schiff base and its metal complexes) were screened in terms of their anti‐proliferative activities in U118 and T98G human glioblastoma cell lines alone or in combination with electroporation (EP). Moreover, the human HDF (human dermal fibroblast) cell lines was used to check the bio‐compatibility of the compounds. Anti‐proliferative activities of all compounds were ascertained using an MTT assay. The complexes exhibited a good anti‐proliferative effect on U118 and T98G glioblastoma cell lines. In addition, these compounds had a negligible cytotoxic effect on the fibroblast HDF cell lines. The use of compounds in combination with EP significantly decreased the IC50 values compared to the use of compounds alone (p<0.05). These results show that newly synthesized Cu(II) and Fe(II) complexes can be developed for use in the treatment of chemotherapy‐resistant U118 and T98G glioblastoma cells and that treatment with lower doses can be provided when used in combination with EP.
Anion Modulated Expression of Chirality in Hydrogen Bond Templated Mechanically Chiral [2]Rotaxanes
Authors: Spicer Rebecca L. , Shearman Curtis C. , Evans Nicholas H.
Published: January 2023

The syntheses of two novel mechanically chiral rotaxanes containing urea and squaramide motifs (in yields of 33 % and 22 %, respectively) are presented. 1H NMR spectroscopic titrations reveal shuttling of the macrocycle – detectable by modulation of the expression of mechanical chirality in the NMR spectrum – is possible through the addition of achiral chloride anions, a process which is reversed by the addition of sodium cations.
Programmed Control of Fluorescence Blinking Patterns based on Electron Transfer in DNA
Authors: Fan Shuya , Takada Tadao , Maruyama Atsushi , Fujitsuka Mamoru , Kawai Kiyohiko
Published: January 2023

Fluorescence imaging uses changes in the fluorescence intensity and emission wavelength to analyze multiple targets simultaneously. To increase the number of targets that can be identified simultaneously, fluorescence blinking can be used as an additional parameter. To understand and eventually control blinking, we used DNA as a platform to elucidate the processes of electron transfer (ET) leading to blinking, down to the rate constants. With a fixed ET distance, various blinking patterns were observed depending on the DNA sequence between the donor and acceptor units of the DNA platform. The blinking pattern was successfully described with a combination of ET rate constants. Therefore, molecules with various blinking patterns can be developed by tuning ET. It is expected that the number of targets that can be analyzed simultaneously will increase by the power of the number of blinking patterns.