bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproduction of Biomimetic Structural Colors via µm‐Scale Ni Textures
Authors: Park Gun , Lee Minsu , Yim Tai Hong , Park Jongcheol , Sim Gapseop , Lee Jong‐Kwon
Published: March 2023

A µm‐scale Ni texture coated with a dielectric multilayer Bragg stack is developed to cost‐effectively reproduce a variety of biomimetic structural colors on a large scale. The reflectance of the highly reflective region by the Bragg‐stacked flat Ni‐surface is significantly reduced, while the high‐order reflection in the shorter wavelength region increases due to the interference effect inside the triangular Ni texture. This high‐order reflectance is easily adjusted to regulate the reflection color according to the shape of the Bragg stacked Ni textures. The observed reflectance spectra show that the monochromaticity increases as the apex angle of the Ni textures decreases, whereas the amount of color mixture increases as the area of the flat portion formed in them increases. Thus, this color change is quantified by analyzing the variation in the peak wavelength and bandwidth of the reflection spectrum according to the shape of the Ni textures and the thickness of the Bragg stack. Also, by fabricating the triangular Ni textures with gradually decreasing thickness of the Bragg stack from the ridges to the valleys, the continuous change of the reflection color is demonstrated effectively as the location of the incident light reflected from the texture changes.
Self‐Assembled Chiral Copper Superstructures with Enhanced Circularly Polarized Light Emission
Authors: Jin Yiran , Xiao Chengyu , Tan Lili , Chen Zhi , Wen Zhihao , Cheng Yang , Fu Wenlong , Wang Peng‐peng
Published: March 2023

Self‐assembled chiral superstructures represent an emerging class of chiral materials that can possess unique and collective chiroptical properties superior to their building blocks. However, facile construction of such chiral assemblies, especially those with circularly polarized light emission (CPLE), is still challenging. Here, a simple solution‐based self‐assembly of colloidal chiral superstructures from copper‐penicillamine nanosheets is reported. These chiral copper superstructures feature flower‐like morphology, and exhibit CPLE that is significantly stronger than their unassembled counterparts. In addition, the handedness and the morphology complexity of the superstructures can be independently manipulated by the chirality of penicillamine enantiomers and self‐assembly process, respectively. Besides the structural manipulation, CPLE property can be tuned by doping with other metal ions such as silver. The unique chiroptical and colloidal properties of the chiral copper superstructures as well as the simplicity of the self‐assembly enable rational design of CPLE materials with hierarchical chirality and may advance the applications in chiral sensing, asymmetric catalysis, and novel optoelectronics.
Dual‐Channel Dielectric Tunability in Highly Textured BaTi0.99Fe0.01O3−δCeramics With Micro‐Twin Boundary
Authors: Li Fangzhe , Zhang Hongjun , Luo Huijiadai , Xing Miao , Cao Lu , Wu Chunlong , Zou Yongchun , Jia Dechang , Zhou Yu , Huang Yong , Ke Hua
Published: March 2023

Dielectric tunability is widely used in numerous electronic devices, including wavelet filters, lens antennae, and varactors. However, a dielectric device often has only one tunable dielectric constant range, confining the integration of a multi‐frequency electronic circuit. Herein, a new kind of dielectric tunable textured BaTi0.99Fe0.01O3−δceramics with micro‐twin boundaries is proposed for the dual‐channel controllable dielectric constants. The relative tunability with the acceptable figure of merit is as large as 76% in the crossover channel, which is superior to that of the most state‐of‐the‐art BaxSr1 −xTiO3counterparts. This new design strategy offers the possibility of dual‐channel filters in one dielectric device controlled by external electric fields. The required external electric field is moderate with the help of reversible micro twins, which is confirmed by first‐principles studies. The static magnetic field interference on the dielectric constant is also evaluated, showing the frequency stability of dielectric tunability in a range between 5k and 1 mHz.
Li‐Ion Transfer Mechanism of Ambient‐Temperature Solid Polymer Electrolyte toward Lithium Metal Battery
Authors: Wang Su , Sun Qifang , Zhang Qing , Li Chen , Xu Chaoran , Ma Yue , Shi Xixi , Zhang Hongzhou , Song Dawei , Zhang Lianqi
Published: March 2023

The low ionic conductivity and short service life of solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) limit the application of ambient‐temperature polymer lithium metal batteries, which is perhaps a result of the inherent restricted segment movement of the polymer at room temperature. Herein, an ambient‐temperature dual‐layer solid polymer electrolyte is developed and the related working mechanisms are innovatively investigated. In the strategy, poly(propylene carbonate) (PPC)/succinonitrile (SN) contacts with the cathode while polyethylene oxide (PEO)/Li7La3Zr2O12 is adopted near the anode. Molecular dynamics simulations demonstrate the formation of solvated sheath‐like structure [SN···Li+], which demonstrates strong interaction with polymers (PPC···[SN···Li+]/PEO···[SN···Li+]). Further density functional theory calculations show that these structures, allow rapid transport of Li ions through polymer segments. These results are confirmed with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance. Therefore, the Li‐ion transport mechanism for ambient‐temperature SPEs can be reasonably revealed. Remarkably, the binding energy between PPC and SN is stronger than that of PEO, which helps avoid the parasitic reaction between SN and Li. A low overpotential of 55 mV is exhibited for Li/Li symmetrical cells after 1000 h. Notably, a capacity retention of 86.3% is maintained for LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2/Li cell at 25 °C, implying good application potential in ambient‐temperature high voltage lithium metal batteries.
Beef and pork processing plant labor costs
Authors: Boyer Christopher N. , Lambert Dayton M. , Martinez Charles C. , Maples Joshua G.
Published: March 2023

Federal and state legislators recently enacted policies to fund new and renovated small and local meat processors expansion with the aim of increasing the meat‐processing sector's resiliency. Wages must be competitive to attract employees for these new and renovated plants to be competitive. No previous studies have examined what has happened to employee labor costs at United States (US) meat‐processing plants since the early 2000s. This study estimates how meat‐processing firm size affects employee wages in the US. We use average employee wages for beef and pork processing plants from 2007 to 2019. We find larger plants pay higher wages than smaller ones, which is likely attributable to lower fixed costs resulting from economies of scale. Findings suggest that facilities with more than 500+ employees will most likely offer wage that are high enough to recruit workers in for this industry. Small plants will need to increase real wages that are higher than historical averages. Thus, if smaller facilities increase the sector's resiliency, then it will likely come at a cost in terms of higher wage bills. [EconLit Citations: Q12, Q18].
Pd/C catalytic cyclopropanation of polycyclic olefins for synthesis of high‐energy‐density strained fuels
Authors: Wang Wei , Pu Baian , Ma Chi , Shi Chengxiang , Pan Lun , Zhang Xiangwen , Zou Ji‐Jun
Published: March 2023

Cyclopropane derivates are appealing to synthesis of high‐energy‐density fuels because of the high strained energy of the three‐numbered ring. The catalytic cyclopropanation of olefin with diazomethane is very effective to construct the carbocycle. The majority of the catalysts employed are nonrecyclable homogeneous compounds. Herein, we report cyclopropanation of polycyclic olefins catalyzed by heterogeneous Pd/C. The optimal cyclopropanation conditions were explored utilizing dicyclopentadiene as model substrate and a series of polycyclic olefins were cyclopropanated with high yield. Additionally, the catalyst has good recyclability and stability, as shown by characterizations as well as the fact that no inactivation happens after cyclopropanation. The synthesized cyclopropane derivates exhibit good fuel characteristics like high density (1.006–1.087 g/cm3), high volumetric net heat of combustion (42.58–46.45 kJ/cm3), good low‐temperature and combustion performance. This work shows industrial potential for cyclopropanation of polycyclic olefins with diazomethane.
Changes in endogenous abscisic acid and stomata of the resurrection fern, Pleopeltis polypodioides, in response to de‐ and rehydration
Authors: John Susan P. , Svihla Zachary T. , Hasenstein Karl H.
Published: March 2023

Premise

While angiosperms respond uniformly to abscisic acid (ABA) by stomatal closure, the response of ferns to ABA is ambiguous. We evaluated the effect of endogenous ABA, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), nitric oxide (NO), and Ca2+, low and high light intensities, and blue light (BL) on stomatal opening of Pleopeltis polypodioides.

Methods

Endogenous ABA was quantified using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry; microscopy results and stomatal responses to light and chemical treatments were analyzed with Image J.

Results

The ABA content increases during initial dehydration, peaks at 15 h and then decreases to one fourth of the ABA content of hydrated fronds. Following rehydration, ABA content increases within 24 h to the level of hydrated tissue. The stomatal aperture opens under BL and remains open even in the presence of ABA. Closure was strongly affected by BL, NO, and Ca2+, regardless of ABA, H2O2 effect was weak.

Conclusions

The decrease in the ABA content during extended dehydration and insensitivity of the stomata to ABA suggests that the drought tolerance mechanism of Pleopeltis polypodioides is independent of ABA.
A Bioinspired Free‐Standing 2D Crown‐Ether‐Based Polyimine Membrane for Selective Proton Transport
Authors: Qian Yongchao , Wu Yadong , Qiu Shuai , He Xiaofeng , Liu Yuyang , Kong Xiang‐Yu , Tian Wei , Jiang Lei , Wen Liping
Published: March 2023

Biological proton channels play important roles in the delicate metabolism process, and have led to great interest in mimicking selective proton transport. Herein, we designed a bioinspired proton transport membrane by incorporating flexible 14‐crown‐4 (14C4) units into rigid frameworks of polyimine films by an interfacial Schiff base reaction. The Young's modulus of the membrane reaches about 8.2 GPa. The 14C4 units could grab water, thereby forming hydrogen bond‐water networks and acting as jumping sites to lower the energy barrier of proton transport. The molecular chains present a vertical orientation to the membrane, and the ions travel between the quasi‐planar molecular sheets. Furthermore, the 14C4 moieties could bond alkali ions through host–guest interactions. Thus, the ion conductance follows H+≫K+>Na+>Li+, and an ultrahigh selectivity of H+/Li+(ca. 215) is obtained. This study provides an effective avenue for developing ion‐selective membranes by embedding macrocycle motifs with inherent cavities.
Spontaneous Chirality Induction in the Assembly of a Single Layer 2D Network with Switchable Pores
Authors: Shen Bowen , Pan Chunyu , Feng Xiaopeng , Kim Jehan , Sun Mo , Lee Myongsoo
Published: March 2023

Although two‐dimensional (2D) chiral sheet structures are attractive because of their unique chemical and physical properties, single layer 2D chiral network structures with switchable pore interior remain elusive. Here we report spontaneous chirality induction in a single layer 2D network structure formed from the self‐assembly of tetrapod azobenzene molecules. The chirality induction arises from multiple sublayers slipped in a preferred direction in which the sublayer consists of unidentical molecular arrangements in the in‐plane a and b directions, breaking both the plane of symmetry and inversion symmetry. The protruded azobenzene units in the pore interior can be selectively isomerized upon UV irradiation, resulting in a reversible deformation of the chiral pores while maintaining the 2D frameworks. The chiral network can thus selectively entrap one enantiomer from a racemic solution with near perfect enantioselectivity, and then release it upon UV irradiation.
Atomically Local Electric Field Induced Interface Water Reorientation for Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Cai Chao , Liu Kang , Zhang Long , Li Fangbiao , Tan Yao , Li Pengcheng , Wang Yanqiu , Wang Maoyu , Feng Zhenxing , Motta Meira Debora , Qu Wenqiang , Stefancu Andrei , Li Wenzhang , Li Hongmei , Fu Junwei , Wang Hui , Zhang Dengsong , Cortés Emiliano , Liu Min
Published: March 2023

The slow water dissociation process in alkaline electrolyte severely limits the kinetics of HER. The orientation of H2O is well known to affect the dissociation process, but H2O orientation is hard to control because of its random distribution. Herein, an atomically asymmetric local electric field was designed by IrRu dizygotic single‐atom sites (IrRu DSACs) to tune the H2O adsorption configuration and orientation, thus optimizing its dissociation process. The electric field intensity of IrRu DSACs is over 4.00×1010 N/C. The ab initio molecular dynamics simulations combined with in situ Raman spectroscopy analysis on the adsorption behavior of H2O show that the M−H bond length (M=active site) is shortened at the interface due to the strong local electric field gradient and the optimized water orientation promotes the dissociation process of interfacial water. This work provides a new way to explore the role of single atomic sites in alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction.
Solid Interhalogen Compounds with Effective Br0 Fixing for Stable High‐energy Zinc Batteries
Authors: Chen Shengmei , Ying Yiran , Wang Shengnan , Ma Longtao , Huang Haitao , Wang Xiaoqi , Jin Xu , Bai Shengchi , Zhi Chunyi
Published: March 2023

Though massive efforts have been devoted to exploring Br‐based batteries, the highly soluble Br2/Br3− species causing rigorous “shuttle effect”, leads to severe self‐discharge and low Coulombic efficiency. Conventionally, quaternary ammonium salts such as methyl ethyl morpholinium bromide (MEMBr) and tetrapropylammonium bromide (TPABr) are used to fix Br2 and Br3−, but they occupy the mass and volume of battery without capacity contribution. Here, we report an all‐active solid interhalogen compound, IBr, as a cathode to address the above challenges, in which the oxidized Br0 is fixed by iodine (I), thoroughly eliminating cross‐diffusing Br2/Br3− species during the whole charging and discharging process. The Zn||IBr battery delivers remarkably high energy density of 385.8 Wh kg−1, which is higher than those of I2, MEMBr3, and TPABr3 cathodes. Our work provides new approaches to achieve active solid interhalogen chemistry for high‐energy electrochemical energy storage devices.
Visible‐to‐UV Photon Upconversion: Recent Progress in New Materials and Applications
Authors: Uji Masanori , Zähringer Till J. B. , Kerzig Christoph , Yanai Nobuhiro
Published: March 2023

Ultraviolet (UV, λ<400 nm) light is essential for various photochemical reactions, but its intensity in the solar spectrum is very low, and light sources that artificially generate high‐energy UV light are inefficient and environmentally unfriendly. A solution to this problem is photon upconversion (UC) from visible (vis, λ>400 nm) light to UV light. Among several mechanisms, UC based on triplet‐triplet annihilation (TTA‐UC) in particular has made remarkable progress in recent years. The development of new chromophores has enabled highly efficient conversion of low‐intensity visible light into UV light. In this review, we summarize the recent development of visible‐to‐UV TTA‐UC, from the development of chromophores and their production into films to their application in various photochemical processes such as catalysis, bond activation and polymerization. Finally, challenges and opportunities in future material development and applications will be discussed.
Enantioconvergent Reductive C(sp)−C(sp3) Cross‐Coupling to Access Chiral α‐Alkynyl Phosphonates Under Dual Nickel/Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Wang Hepan , Wu Xiaoqiang , XU Tao
Published: March 2023

Transition‐metal‐catalyzed asymmetric carbon−carbon bond formation to forge phosphonates with an α‐chiral carbon center through C(sp3)−C(sp3) and C(sp2)−C(sp3) couplings has been successful. However, the enantioselective C(sp)−C(sp3) coupling has not yet been disclosed. Reported herein is an unprecedented enantioconvergent cross‐coupling of alkynyl bromides and α‐bromo phosphonates to deliver chiral α‐alkynyl phosphonates.
The Self‐Association of the KRAS4b Protein is Altered by Lipid‐Bilayer Composition and Electrostatics
Authors: Lee Ki‐Young , Ikura Mitsuhiko , Marshall Christopher B.
Published: March 2023

KRAS is a peripheral membrane protein that regulates multiple signaling pathways, and is mutated in ≈30 % of cancers. Transient self‐association of KRAS is essential for activation of the downstream effector RAF and oncogenicity. The presence of anionic phosphatidylserine (PS) lipids in the membrane was shown to promote KRAS self‐assembly, however, the structural mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we employed nanodisc bilayers of defined lipid compositions, and probed the impact of PS concentration on KRAS self‐association. Paramagnetic NMR experiments demonstrated the existence of two transient dimer conformations involving alternate electrostatic contacts between R135 and either D153 or E168 on the “α4/5‐α4/5” interface, and revealed that lipid composition and salt modulate their dynamic equilibrium. These dimer interfaces were validated by charge‐reversal mutants. This plasticity demonstrates how the dynamic KRAS dimerization interface responds to the environment, and likely extends to the assembly of other signaling complexes on the membrane.
Closing the Cycle as It Begins: Synthesis of ortho‐Iodobiaryls via Catellani Reaction
Authors: Botla Vinayak , Fontana Marco , Voronov Aleksandr , Maggi Raimondo , Motti Elena , Maestri Giovanni , Della Ca' Nicola
Published: March 2023

Despite the advances in the field of carbon‐halogen bond formation, the straightforward catalytic access to selectively functionalized iodoaryls remains a challenge. Here, we report a one‐pot synthesis of ortho‐iodobiaryls from aryl iodides and bromides by palladium/norbornene catalysis. This new example of Catellani reaction features the initial cleavage of a C(sp2)−I bond, followed by the key formation of a palladacycle through ortho C−H activation, the oxidative addition of an aryl bromide and the ultimate restoration of the C(sp2)−I bond. A large variety of valuable o‐iodobiaryls has been synthesized in satisfactory to good yields and their derivatization have been described too. Beyond the synthetic utility of this transformation, a DFT study provides insights on the mechanism of the key reductive elimination step, which is driven by an original transmetallation between palladium(II)‐halides complexes.
Ammonium Ion Batteries: Material, Electrochemistry and Strategy
Authors: Zheng Runtian , Li Yuhang , Yu Haoxiang , Zhang Xikun , Yang Ding , Yan Lei , Li Yu , Shu Jie , Su Bao‐Lian
Published: March 2023

Ammonium‐ion batteries (AIBs) have recently attracted increasing attention in the field of aqueous batteries owing to their high safety and fast diffusion kinetics. The NH4+storage mechanism is quite different from that of spherical metal ions (e.g. Li+, Na+, K+, Mg2+, and Zn2+) because of the formation of hydrogen bonds between NH4+and host materials. Although many materials have been proposed as electrode materials for AIBs, their performances hardly meet the requirement of future electrochemical energy storage devices. It is thus urgent to design and exploit advanced materials for AIBs. This review highlights the state‐of‐the‐art research on AIBs. The insights into the basic configuration, operating mechanism and recent progress of electrode materials and corresponding electrolytes for AIBs have been comprehensively outlined. The electrode materials are classified and compared according to different NH4+storage behaviour in the structure. The challenges, design strategies and perspectives are also discussed for the future development of AIBs.
Water Activation for Boosting Electrochemiluminescence
Authors: Xi Mengzhen , Wu Zhichao , Luo Zhen , Ling Ling , Xu Weiqing , Xiao Runshi , Wang Hengjia , Fang Qie , Hu Liuyong , Gu Wenling , Zhu Chengzhou
Published: March 2023

In conventional luminol electrochemiluminescence (ECL) systems, hydrogen peroxide and dissolved oxygen are employed as typical co‐reactants to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) for efficient ECL emission. However, the self‐decomposition of hydrogen peroxide and limited solubility of oxygen in water inevitably restrict the detection accuracy and luminous efficiency of luminol ECL system. Inspired by ROS‐mediated ECL mechanism, for the first time, we used cobalt‐iron layered double hydroxide as co‐reaction accelerator to efficiently activate water to generate ROS for enhancing luminol emission. Experimental investigations verify the formation of hydroxyl and superoxide radicals in the process of electrochemical water oxidation, which subsequently react with luminol anion radicals to trigger strong ECL signals. Finally, the detection of alkaline phosphatase has been successfully achieved with impressive sensitivity and reproducibility for practical sample analysis.
Low‐Cost, High‐Strength Cellulose‐based Quasi‐Solid Polymer Electrolyte for Solid‐State Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Dai , Xie Hui , Liu Qiang , Mu Kexin , Song Zhennuo , Xu Weijian , Tian Lei , Zhu Caizhen , Xu Jian
Published: March 2023

Solid‐state lithium‐metal batteries are considered as the next generation of high‐energy‐density batteries. However, their solid electrolytes suffer from low ionic conductivity, poor interface performance, and high production costs, restricting their commercial application. Herein, a low‐cost cellulose acetate‐based quasi‐solid composite polymer electrolyte (C‐CLA QPE) was developed with a high Li+ transference number (
) of 0.85 and excellent interface stability. The prepared LiFePO4 (LFP)|C‐CLA QPE|Li batteries exhibited excellent cycle performance with a capacity retention of 97.7 % after 1200 cycles at 1 C and 25 °C. The experimental results and Density Function Theory (DFT) simulation revealed that the partially esterified side groups in the CLA matrix contribute to the migration of Li+ and enhance electrochemical stability. This work provides a promising strategy for fabricating cost‐effective, stable polymer electrolytes for solid‐state lithium batteries.
Visible‐Light‐Reactive Single‐Chain Nanoparticles
Authors: Mundsinger Kai , Tuten Bryan T. , Wang Lily , Neubauer Kira , Kropf Christian , O'Mara Megan L. , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: March 2023

We introduce a single‐chain nanoparticle (SCNP) system capable of catalyzing the photooxidation of nonpolar alkenes up to three times more efficiently than an equivalent small‐molecule photosensitizer at an identical concentration. Specifically, we construct a polymer chain constituted of poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate and glycidyl methacrylate which we compact via multifunctional thiol‐epoxide ligation and functionalize with Rose Bengal (RB) in a one pot reaction, affording SCNPs with a hydrophilic shell and hydrophobic photocatalytic regions. Photooxidation of the internal alkene in oleic acid proceeds under green light. RB confined within the SCNP is three times more effective for nonpolar alkenes than free RB in solution, which we hypothesize is due to the spatial proximity of the photosensitizing units to the substrate in the hydrophobic region. Our approach demonstrates that SCNP based catalysts can afford enhanced photocatalysis via confinement effects in a homogeneous reaction environment.
A comparative study of the potential of [Os{(NHCH2CH2)3X}] catalysts (XN, P) for the reduction of dinitrogen to ammonia and hydrazine using FLP‐H2 as a co‐catalyst by density functional theory
Authors: Sivan Akhil K. , Sivasankar Chinnappan
Published: March 2023

Synthesis of NH3 and NH2NH2 from dinitrogen using Os‐triamidoamine (1N) and Os‐triamdiophosphine (1P) complexes as catalysts under ambient reaction conditions is investigated. In this current study, we used the FLP‐H2 as a co‐catalyst since it releases H+ and H−, which when added to the dinitrogen complex yields the desired products with realizable energy barriers. The proposed catalytic cycle for this process produces NH3 and N2H4 under viable conditions. A comparison of the computed energies of the structures involved in the catalytic cycle of both the complexes reveals that the [Os{(NHCH2CH2)3P}] catalyst shows better result for ammonia formation than the [Os{(NHCH2CH2)3N}] catalyst. This study paves a new path in the usage of these osmium metal complexes as catalysts for nitrogen reduction reactions (NRRs) in future.
Fabrication of magnetic nanocomposite as responsive drug delivery vehicle for cervical cancer therapy
Authors: Darroudi Mahdieh , Nazari Seyedeh Elnaz , Karimzadeh Maryam , Asgharzadeh Fereshteh , Asghari Seyyedeh Zahra , Khalili‐Tanha Nima , Rezayi Majid , Khazaei Majid
Published: March 2023

The development of carriers for drug delivery faces significant challenges from a therapeutic perspective. The present study presents an innovative nanocarrier based on combination of functionalized magnetic nanocomposite nano‐chitosan and cisplatin. Hydrophobic drugs such as cisplatin could be delivered using magnetic nanoparticles modified with biocompatible copolymers. This study aimed to determine the antitumor effects of free cisplatin enhancement in cervical cancer cells using cisplatin‐encapsulated Fe3O4@SiO2@N‐Chit‐FA. An additional layer of nanochitosan was coated on top of the magnetic nanocomposite to increase its stability in aqueous solutions. Biocompatibility and cytotoxicity of Fe3O4@SiO2@N‐Chit‐FA‐ciscomplex were evaluated against the cervical cancer animal model in C57BL6 mice. An external magnetic field was used to test the in‐vivo uptake and distribution of Fe3O4@SiO2@N‐Chit‐FA‐cisin tumor cells. The results showed that the released drug would induce its effects on a specific target area when an external magnetic field was applied, and Fe3O4@SiO2@N‐Chit‐FA‐ciscan suppress tumor growth more than cisplatin alone via induction of tumor necrosis. Overall, Fe3O4@SiO2@N‐Chit‐FA nanocomposites hold great potential for use in targeted nanomedicine to deliver bio‐functional molecules.
Stability analysis of hybrid stochastic delay differential equations with asynchronous switching and discrete observations
Authors: Yu Xinyun , Deng Feiqi , Wan Fangzhe , Huang Yongjia
Published: March 2023

This paper studies the hybrid stochastic delay differential equations (SDDEs) with asynchronous switching and discrete observations. For SDDEs based on discrete observations, there are two methods: The discrete‐time approach and the input time delay method. For linear solvable equations, the discrete‐time approach is feasible but for unsolvable nonlinear hybrid SDSs, the results of the discrete‐time approach have not been discussed. So, it is natural to ask: Is the discrete‐time approach still workable for nonlinear hybrid SDSs? This paper focuses on this problem. By using tools of stochastic analysis, constructing Lyapunov functional and using the discrete‐time approach, the stability of hybrid SDSs by discrete‐time feedback control is obtained. Finally, a numerical example is presented to verify the theoretical result.
Bioluminescent eddies of the World Ocean
Authors: Piontkovski Sergey A. , Melnik Alexandr V. , Serikova Irina M. , Minsky Ivan A. , Zhuk Vladimir F.
Published: March 2023

Mesoscale eddies of the ocean (with a characteristic diameter of about 100 km and a life time‐span of about several weeks) are habitats of plankton organisms, many of which are bioluminescent. The spatial heterogeneity of bioluminescence of the upper mixed layer associated with the impact of mesoscale eddies is poorly studied. The 45‐year historical data set was retrieved, in order to select the bathy‐photometric surveys carried out in the form of station grids and transects across eddies. Data from 71 expeditions deployed in 1966–2022 to the Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean and Mediterranean Sea basin were analyzed, in order for the spatial heterogeneity of bioluminescent fields to be elucidated across eddy fields. The stimulated bioluminescence intensity was characterized by the bioluminescent potential, which represented the maximal amount of radiant energy emitted in a given volume of water by bioluminescent organisms. The normalized bioluminescent potential over oceanographic station grids exhibited correlation with the eddy kinetic energy and zooplankton biomass (r = 0.8, at P = 0.001 and r = 0.7, at P = 0.05, respectively), in a broad range of energy and bioluminescence units (0.02–0.2 m2 s−2; 0.4–92.0 × 10−8 W cm−2 L−1, respectively). Overall, estimates of bioluminescent potential variability on the mesoscale contribute to the assessment of the multiple‐scale variation of the bioluminescent field of the World Ocean.
Piloting Oiconomy Pricing: First experiences of producers applying full cost sustainability assessment of products
Authors: Vermeulen Walter J. V. , Croes Pim R. , van der Feen Larissa
Published: March 2023

The Oiconomy Pricing approach provides an innovative way of measuring and communicating (un)sustainability of products. It expresses (un)sustainability in a virtual monetary unit, the ‘Eco Social Cost Unit’ (ESCU). As closely as possible, the ESCU score of a product equals the externalities, which can also be described as hidden preventative costs. In the context of product sustainability assessment, these are the costs that need to be spent to avoid any damage to the environment or society that the product causes during its entire lifecycle. This paper presents the result of a pilot project with three companies operating in global value chains, applying the Oiconomy Sustainability Assessment Tool. The project encouraged end‐producer companies and their value chain partners to calculate the hidden preventative costs and jointly implement sustainable solutions. This article presents the results of these calculations for the three cases, the experiences of the companies and the implications for the market introduction of the tool.
The Discovery and Anti‐Colorectal Cancer Activities of Cembranolides from the South China Sea Soft Coral Sinularia pendunculata
Authors: Wang Hong‐Ru , Jin Yang , Sun Ruo‐Nan , Yao Li‐Gong , Xia Jian‐Hua , Huang Yun , Liu San‐Hong , Zhang Wei‐Dong , Li Xu‐Wen
Published: March 2023

A new cembranolide, namely, sinupendunculide A (1), along with eight known related compounds (2–9), was isolated from the South China Sea Soft coral Sinularia pendunculata. The structure of sinupendunculide A (1) was established by extensive spectroscopic analysis and X‐ray diffraction experiments. In a bioassay, anti‐colorectal cancer (CRC) activity was performed, and the results showed that several compounds exhibited cytotoxicity against RKO cells, and a preliminary structure‐activity relationship was analysed. Meanwhile, the most effective compound 7 was proven to increase reactive oxygen species levels, which promoted cell apoptosis and inhibited cell proliferation.
Five New Phenolic Glycosides from Viburnum luzonicum
Authors: Chen Jia , Zhao Min , Zhou Hongjuan , Tang Yiyuan , Ji Wei , Shao Jianhua , Zhao Chunjie , Zhao Chunchao
Published: March 2023

Viburnum luzonicum is widely distributed in China. Its branch extracts showed potential α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase inhibitory activities. In order to discover new bioactive constituents, five undescribed phenolic glycosides, viburozosides A−E (1–5), were obtained by bioassay‐guided isolation coupled with HPLC‐QTOF‐MS/MS analysis. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analyses, including 1D NMR, 2D NMR, ECD, and ORD. All compounds were tested for their α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase inhibitory potency. Compound 1 showed significantly competitive inhibition against α‐amylase (IC50=17.5 μM) and α‐glucosidase (IC50=13.6 μM).
ASPM promotes migration and invasion of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma by stabilizing KIF11
Authors: Fang Qilu , Li Qinglin , Qi Yajun , Pan Zongfu , Feng Tingting , Xin Wenxiu
Published: March 2023

Abnormal spindle‐like microcephaly‐associated (ASPM) protein is crucial to the mitotic spindle function during cell replication and tumor progression in multiple tumor types. However, the effect of ASPM in anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) has not yet been understood. The present study is to elucidate the function of ASPM in the migration and invasion of ATC. ASPM expression is incrementally upregulated in ATC tissues and cell lines. Knockout (KO) of ASPM pronouncedly attenuates the migration and invasion of ATC cells. ASPM KO significantly reduces the transcript levels of Vimentin, N‐cadherin, and Snail and increases E‐cadherin and Occludin, thereby inhibiting epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Mechanistically, ASPM regulates the movement of ATC cells by inhibiting the ubiquitin degradation of KIF11 and thus stabilizing it via direct binding to it. Moreover, xenograft tumors in nude mice proved that KO of ASPM could ameliorate tumorigenesis and tumor growth accompanied by a decreased protein expression of KIF11 and an inhibition of EMT. In conclusion, ASPM is a potentially useful therapeutic target for ATC. Our results also reveal a novel mechanism by which ASPM inhibits the ubiquitin process in KIF11.
Impact of calcification on clinical outcomes after drug‐coated balloon angioplasty for superficial femoral artery disease: Assessment using the peripheral artery calcification scoring system
Authors: Mori Shinsuke , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Nakama Tatsuya , Tobita Kazuki , Hayakawa Naoki , Iwata Yo , Horie Kazunori , Suzuki Kenji , Yamawaki Masahiro , Ito Yoshiaki
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To investigate whether the severity of calcification assessed by the peripheral artery calcification scoring system (PACSS) was associated with clinical outcomes of drug‐coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty for femoropopliteal lesions.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 733 limbs with intermittent claudication of 626 patients, who underwent DCB angioplasty for de novo femoropopliteal lesions between January 2017 and February 2021 at seven cardiovascular centers in Japan. The patients were categorized using the PACSS classification (grades 0–4: no visible calcification of the target lesion, unilateral wall calcification < 5 cm, unilateral calcification ≥ 5 cm, bilateral wall calcification < 5 cm, and bilateral calcification ≥ 5 cm, respectively). The main outcome was primary patency at 1 year. The Cox proportional hazards analysis was used to explore whether the PACSS classification was an independent predictor of clinical outcomes.

Results

The distribution of PACSS was grade 0 in 38%, grade 1 in 17%, grade 2 in 7%, grade 3 in 16%, and grade 4 in 23%. The 1‐year primary patency rates in these grades, respectively, were 88.2%, 89.3%, 71.9%, 96.5%, and 82.6%, respectively (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis disclosed that PACSS grade 4 (hazard ratio: 1.82, 95% confidence interval 1.15−2.87, p = 0.010) was associated with restenosis.

Conclusion

The PACSS grade 4 calcification was independently associated with poor clinical outcomes after DCB angioplasty for de novo femoropopliteal lesions.
Alveolar bone exostoses following orthodontic treatment. Diagnostic considerations and clinical management
Authors: Venugopal Adith , Bunthouen Noem , Hasan Hasan Sabah , Agani Krenare , Butera Andrea , Vaid Nikhilesh R.
Published: March 2023

Alveolar bone exostoses (ABE) are benign localized convex outgrowths of buccal or lingual bone, which could be delineated from the surrounding cortical plate, also known as a buttress bone formation. Our review and case series demonstrate the development of alveolar bone exostoses during orthodontic therapy. It is crucial to keep in mind that every case presented had a history of palatal tori. In our clinical observations, higher precedence of ABE development was seen in participants during incisor retraction, especially with preexisting palatal tori. Additionally, we have successfully demonstrated surgical techniques to eliminate ABE in the event that self‐remission does not occur once orthodontic forces are discontinued.
Bismuth Cations: Fluoride Ion Abstraction, Isocyanide Coordination, and Impact of Steric Bulk on Lewis Acidity
Authors: Dunaj Tobias , Schwarzmann Johannes , Ramler Jacqueline , Stoy Andreas , Reith Sascha , Nitzsche Joel , Völlinger Lena , von Hänisch Carsten , Lichtenberg Crispin
Published: March 2023

The molecular compound [BiDipp2(SbF6)], containing the bulky, donor‐free bismuth cation [BiDipp2]+ has been synthesized and fully characterized (Dipp=2,6‐iPr2‐C6H3). Using its methyl analog [BiMe2(SbF6)] as a second reference point, the impact of steric bulk on bismuth‐based Lewis acidity was investigated in a combined experimental (Gutmann‐Beckett and modified Gutmann‐Beckett methods) and theoretical approach (DFT calculations). Reactivity studies of the bismuth cations towards [PF6]− and neutral Lewis bases such as isocyanides C≡NR’ revealed facile fluoride ion abstraction and straightforward Lewis pair formation, respectively. The first examples of compounds featuring bismuth‐bound isocyanides have been isolated and fully characterized.
Couette flow fluorescence detected linear dichroism for analytes in lipid bilayers
Authors: Rodger Alison , Kitamura Junya , Sato Akihiro , Shao Ping
Published: March 2023

Membranes are important sites of intermolecular interactions in biological systems. However, they present significant analytical challenges as they contain multiple analytes and are dynamic in nature. In this work, we show how a Jasco J‐1500 circular dichroism spectropolarimeter can be used with a microvolume Couette flow cell and appropriate cut‐off filters to measure excitation fluorescence detected linear dichroism (FDLD) of fluorophores embedded in liposomal membranes. The result is a spectrum that selectively probes the fluorophore(s) and eliminates the scattering that is apparent in the corresponding flow linear dichroism (LD) spectrum. The FDLD spectrum is opposite in sign from the LD spectrum with relative magnitudes modified by the quantum yields of the transitions. FDLD thus enables analyte orientations to be identified in a membrane. Data for a membrane peptide, gramicidin, and two aromatic analytes, anthracene and pyrene, are presented. Issues with the “leakage” of photons by the long pass filters used is also discussed.
Molecular Design for Symmetric All‐Organic Batteries
Authors: Guo Haoyu , Dai Huichao , Wang Chengliang
Published: March 2023

Symmetric batteries that use the same material as both cathodes and anodes have several advantages. However, traditional inorganic materials are facing challenges as electrode materials in symmetric batteries. The designable organic electrode materials (OEMs) make it possible to fabricate symmetric all‐organic batteries (SAOBs), which are still in their infancy stage. Herein, we summarize the requirements of the OEMs for SAOBs and classify SAOBs based on the types of OEMs (n‐type and bipolar, including carbonyl materials, materials with C=N groups, conducting polymers, free radical compounds, conjugated coordination polymers, arylamine derivatives etc.). We review the recent progress on SAOBs and analyze the advantages and shortcomings of different types of SAOBs. The strategies for designing OEMs in SAOBs with high performance are discussed. Thus, we hope this review will stimulate more interest in SAOBs and pave the potential application of SAOBs with high performance.
Imparting Stability to Organic Photovoltaic Components through Molecular Engineering: Mitigating Reactions with Singlet Oxygen
Authors: Henke Petr , Rindom Cecilie , Kanta Aryal Um , Frydenlund Jespersen Malte , Broløs Line , Mansø Mads , Turkovic Vida , Madsen Morten , Mikkelsen Kurt V. , Ogilby Peter R. , Brøndsted Nielsen Mogens
Published: March 2023

One key challenge in the development of viable organic photovoltaic devices is to design component molecules that do not degrade during combined exposure to oxygen and light. Such molecules should thus remain comparatively unreactive towards singlet molecular oxygen and not act as photosensitizers for the generation of this undesirable species. Here, novel redox‐active chromophores that combine these two properties are presented. By functionalizing indenofluorene‐extended tetrathiafulvalenes (IF‐TTFs) with cyano groups at the indenofluorene core using Pd‐catalyzed cyanation reactions, we find that the reactivity of the exocyclic fulvene carbon‐carbon double bonds towards singlet oxygen is considerably reduced. The new cyano‐functionalized IF‐TTFs were tested in non‐fullerene acceptor based organic photovoltaic proof‐of‐principle devices, revealing enhanced device stability.
Simultaneous Anodic and Cathodic Formate Production in a Paired Electrolyzer by CO2 Reduction and Glycerol Oxidation
Authors: Junqueira João R. C. , Das Debanjan , Cathrin Brix Ann , Dieckhöfer Stefan , Weidner Jonas , Wang Xin , Shi Jialin , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: March 2023

Electrochemical CO2 conversion is a key technology to promote the production of carbon‐containing molecules, alongside reducing CO2 emissions leading to a closed carbon cycle economy. Over the past decade, the interest to develop selective and active electrochemical devices for electrochemical CO2 reduction emerged. However, most reports employ oxygen evolution reaction as an anodic half‐cell reaction causing the system to suffer from sluggish kinetics with no production of value‐added chemicals. Therefore, this study reports a conceptualized paired electrolyzer for simultaneous anodic and cathodic formate production at high currents. To achieve this, CO2 reduction was coupled with glycerol oxidation: a BiOBr‐modified gas‐diffusion cathode and a NixB on Ni foam anode keep their selectivity for formate in the paired electrolyzer compared to the half‐cell measurements. The paired reactor here reaches a combined Faradaic efficiency for formate of 141 % (45 % anode and 96 % cathode) at a current density of 200 mA cm−2.
Tracking cognition with the T‐MoCA in a racially/ethnically diverse older adult cohort
Authors: Wang Cuiling , Nester Caroline O. , Chang Katherine , Rabin Laura A. , Ezzati Ali , Lipton Richard B. , Katz Mindy J.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

We investigated the utility of the Telephone‐Montreal Cognitive Assessment (T‐MoCA) to track cognition in a diverse sample from the Einstein Aging Study.

Methods

Telephone and in‐person MoCA data, collected annually, were used to evaluate longitudinal cognitive performance. Joint models of T‐MoCA and in‐person MoCA compared changes, variance, and test‐retest reliability measured by intraclass correlation coefficient by racial/ethnic group.

Results

There were no significant differences in baseline performance or longitudinal changes across three study waves for both MoCA formats. T‐MoCA performance improved over waves 1–3 but declined afterward. Test‐retest reliability was lower for the T‐MoCA than for the in‐person MoCA. In comparison with non‐Hispanic Whites, non‐Hispanic Blacks and Hispanics performed worse at baseline on both MoCA formats and showed lower correlations between T‐MoCA and in‐person versions.

Conclusions

The T‐MoCA provides valuable information on cognitive change, despite racial/ethnic disparities and practice effects. We discuss implications for health disparity populations.

Highlights

We assessed the comparability of Telephone‐Montreal Cognitive Assessment (T‐MoCA) and in‐person MoCA for tracking cognition.

Changes within 3 years in T‐MoCA were similar to that for the in‐person MoCA.

T‐MoCA is subject to practice effects and shows difference in performance by race/ethnicity.

Test‐retest reliability of T‐MoCA is lower than that for in‐person MoCA.
What role do dauciform roots play? Responses of Carex filispica to trampling in alpine meadows based on functional traits
Authors: Fan Rong , Hua Jinguo , Huang Yulin , Lin Jiayi , Ji Wenli
Published: March 2023

In China, dauciform roots were hardly studied and only reported in alpine meadows, where sedges showed a different tendency from other functional groups such as grasses and forbs with degradation. In addition, Carex species were proved to have shifting scaling relationships among LES (leaf economics spectrum) traits under disturbance. So, are these unique performances of sedges related to the presence of dauciform roots, and if so, how? An alpine meadow dominated by Carex filispica in Baima Snow Mountain was selected, and quantitative trampling was performed (0, 50, 200, and 500 passes). The cover and dauciform root properties of Carex filispica were measured, as well as the morphological, chemical traits and biomass of leaves and roots, their correlations and the differences between individuals with and without dauciform roots were analyzed. After the trampling, individuals with dauciform roots showed multiple resource‐acquisitive traits: Larger, thicker leaves, more aboveground biomass, higher efficiency of nutrient utilization, and slenderer roots. Additionally, they had a tighter correlation among belowground biomass, morphological and chemical traits, as well as dauciform root properties and morphology of leaves, suggesting that their traits were more related than those without dauciform roots. The presence of dauciform roots in Carex filispica was related to advantages in multiple traits after trampling, which is consistent with and might be responsible for the unique performances of sedges.
Linking plant diversity–productivity relationships to plant functional traits of dominant species and changes in soil properties in 15‐year‐old experimental grasslands
Authors: Dietrich Peter , Eisenhauer Nico , Roscher Christiane
Published: March 2023

Positive plant diversity–productivity relationships are known to be driven by complementary resource use via differences in plant functional traits. Moreover, soil properties related to nutrient availability were shown to change with plant diversity over time; however, it is not well‐understood whether and how such plant diversity‐dependent soil changes and associated changes in functional traits contribute to positive diversity–productivity relationships in the long run. To test this, we investigated plant communities of different species richness (1, 2, 6, and 9 species) in a 15‐year‐old grassland biodiversity experiment. We determined community biomass production and biodiversity effects (net biodiversity [NEs], complementarity [CEs], and selection effects [SEs]), as well as community means of plant functional traits and soil properties. First, we tested how these variables changed along the plant diversity gradient and were related to each other. Then, we tested for direct and indirect effects of plant and soil variables influencing community biomass production and biodiversity effects. Community biomass production, NEs, CEs, SEs, plant height, root length density (RLD), and all soil property variables changed with plant diversity and the presence of the dominant grass species Arrhenatherum elatius (increase except for soil pH, which decreased). Plant height and RLD for plant functional traits, and soil pH and organic carbon concentration for soil properties, were the variables with the strongest influence on biomass production and biodiversity effects. Our results suggest that plant species richness and the presence of the dominant species, A. elatius, cause soil organic carbon to increase and soil pH to decrease over time, which increases nutrient availability favoring species with tall growth and dense root systems, resulting in higher biomass production in species‐rich communities. Here, we present an additional process that contributes to the strengthening positive diversity–productivity relationship, which may play a role alongside the widespread plant functional trait‐based explanation.