bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clusteroluminescence from Cluster Excitons in Small Heterocyclics Free of Aromatic Rings
Authors: He Benzhao , Zhang Jing , Zhang Jianyu , Zhang Haoke , Wu Xiuying , Chen Xu , Kei Konnie H. S. , Qin Anjun , Sung Herman H. Y. , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: February 2021

The study of nonconventional luminescence is important for revealing the luminescence of natural systems and has gradually drawn the attention of researchers in recent years. However, the underlying mechanism is still inexplicable. Herein, the luminescence behavior of two series of simple, heteroatom‐containing small molecules without aromatic rings, i.e., maleimide and succinimide derivatives, are studied to gain further mechanistic insight into the nonconventional luminescence process. It has been unveiled that all the molecules exhibit bright and visible luminescence in concentrated solution and solid state and the formation of clusters is the root cause for such behaviors, which can effectively increase the possibility of both the nonradiative n–π* and favorable π–π* transitions and stabilize the excitons formed in the excited state. The distinctive luminescent phenomena and intriguing mechanism presented in this work will be significant for understanding the mechanism of clusteroluminescence and provide new strategies for the rational design of novel luminescent materials.
Insight into MoS2–MoN Heterostructure to Accelerate Polysulfide Conversion toward High‐Energy‐Density Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Wang Sizhe , Feng Shaopei , Liang Jianwen , Su Qingmei , Zhao Feipeng , Song Haojie , Zheng Matthew , Sun Qian , Song Zhongxin , Jia Xiaohua , Yang Jin , Li Yong , Liao Jiaxuan , Li Ruying , Sun Xueliang
Published: February 2021

Lithium–sulfur batteries are deemed as optimal energy devices for the next generation of high‐energy‐density energy storage. However, several problems such as low energy density and short cycle life hinder their application in industry. Here, MoS2–MoN heterostructure nanosheets grown on carbon nanotube arrays as free‐standing cathodes are reported. In this heterostructure, MoN works as a promoter to provide coupled electrons to accelerate the redox reaction of polysulfides while the MoS2, with a two‐dimensional layered structure, provides smooth Li+ diffusion pathways. Through their respective advantages, both MoN and MoS2 could mutually boost the process of “adsorption‐diffusion‐conversion” of polysulfides, which have a synergy enhancement effect to restrain the lithium polysulfides from shuttling. The designed cathodes show excellent long‐term cycling performances of 1000 cycles at 1C with a low decay rate of 0.039% per cycle and a high rate capability up to 6C. A high initial areal capacity of 13.3 mAh cm−2 is also achieved under a low electrolyte volume/sulfur loading (E/S) ratio of 6.3 mL g−1. This strategy of promoting polysulfide conversion by heterostructure MoS2–MoN as presented in this work can provide a more structured design strategy for future advanced Li–S energy storage systems.
Operando Electrochemical Kinetics in Particulate Porous Electrodes by Quantifying the Mesoscale Spatiotemporal Heterogeneities
Authors: Agrawal Shubham , Bai Peng
Published: February 2021

Electrochemical energy systems rely on particulate porous electrodes to store or convert energies. While the three‐dimensional (3D) porous structures are introduced to maximize the interfacial area for better overall performance of the system, spatiotemporal heterogeneities arising from materials thermodynamics are localizing the charge transfer processes onto a limited portion of the available interfaces. Here, a simple but precise method is demonstrated to directly track and analyze the operando (i.e., local and working) interfaces on the mesoscale in a practical graphite porous electrode to obtain the true local current density, which turns out to be two orders of magnitude higher than the globally averaged current density adopted by existing studies. The results shed light on the long‐standing discrepancies in kinetics parameters derived from electroanalytical measurements and from first principle predictions. Contradictory to prevailing beliefs, the electrochemical dynamics are not controlled by the solid‐state diffusion process once the spatiotemporal reaction heterogeneities emerge.
Stability of Quantum Dot Solar Cells: A Matter of (Life)Time
Authors: Albaladejo‐Siguan Miguel , Baird Elizabeth C. , Becker‐Koch David , Li Yanxiu , Rogach Andrey L. , Vaynzof Yana
Published: February 2021

Colloidal quantum dot solar cells (QDSCs) are promising candidates amongst third generation photovoltaics due to their bandgap tunability, facile low‐temperature ink processing, strong visible‐to‐infrared absorption, and potential for multiple‐exciton generation. An unprecedented increase in power conversion efficiency is reported for different types of QDSCs in the last few years, making them appealing for large‐scale fabrication. The stability of QDSCs, however, still remains inadequate for industrial application, especially when they are operated under a sun‐like illumination in an ambient atmosphere. This review focuses on three classes of QDs (lead chalcogenides, lead halide perovskites, and lead‐free QDs) and considers the current understanding of their degradation mechanisms. For each material class, strategies for stability improvement are discussed, both from materials science and device engineering perspectives. This paper concludes by suggesting a methodology for characterizing the QDSCs’ stability which would standardize the results obtained by researchers worldwide.
Upscaling of Co‐Impregnated La0.20Sr0.25Ca0.45TiO3 Anodes for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells: A Progress Report on a Decade of Academic‐Industrial Collaboration
Authors: Price Robert , Cassidy Mark , Grolig Jan G. , Longo Gino , Weissen Ueli , Mai Andreas , Irvine John T. S.
Published: February 2021

Solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stack technology offers a reliable, efficient, and clean method of sustainable heat and electricity co‐generation that can be integrated into micro‐combined heat and power (µ‐CHP) units for use in residential and small commercial environments. Recent years have seen the successful market introduction of several SOFC‐based systems, however, manufacturers still face some challenges in improving the durability and tolerance of traditional Ni‐based ceramic‐metal (cermet) composite anodes to harsh operating conditions, such as redox and thermal cycling, overload exposure, sulfur poisoning and coking, in unprocessed natural gas feeds, for long time periods. Creating a “silver bullet” anode material that solves all of these issues has been the focus of SOFC research of the past 20 years, however, very few materials are reported to address these issues at the button cell scale and, subsequently, successfully scale to industrial SOFC stacks. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to provide a “powder to power” overview of the academic‐industrial cross‐collaborative development of a novel, highly robust anode material, from the fundamental materials science performed in academic laboratories to the successful upscaling and incorporation into short stacks at a well‐established, commercial manufacturer of SOFC systems in an industrial setting.
Impact of chronic kidney disease stage on morbidity after gastrectomy for gastric cancer
Authors: Suzuki Satoshi , Kanaji Shingo , Urakawa Naoki , Takiguchi Gosuke , Hasegawa Hiroshi , Yamashita Kimihiro , Matsuda Takeru , Oshikiri Taro , Nakamura Tetsu , Kakeji Yoshihiro
Published: February 2021

Aim

The outcomes of gastrectomy for gastric cancer in patients at each severity of chronic kidney disease (CKD) remain unknown.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of 560 patients who underwent distal or total gastrectomy for gastric cancer between 2009 and 2018. We classified the patients into four groups based on estimated glomerular filtration rate: stage 1/2 (normal to mild, n = 375), stage 3a (mild to moderate, n = 122), stage 3b (moderate to severe, n = 43), and stage 4/5 (severe to end‐stage, n = 20) CKD. The relationship between CKD stage and the incidence of postoperative morbidity was analyzed.

Results

CKD was a predictor of overall morbidity independent of age, gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists Performance Status, pulmonary comorbidity, extent of lymphadenectomy, and operation time in a multivariate analysis. The incidences of overall and severe morbidity were significantly increased with CKD progression (both P < .001). Compared to stage 1/2 CKD, the odds of overall morbidity were significantly elevated in stage 3a (odds ratio [OR] 1.87, P = .007), stage 3b (OR 3.86, P < .001), and stage 4/5 (OR 8.60, P < .001). The risk of procedure‐related morbidity was strikingly increased in stage 3b (OR 2.93, P = .004). The risk of procedure‐unrelated morbidity elevated markedly in stage 3a (OR 2.77, P = .001). A significant graded association between CKD progression and overall morbidity was also revealed in elderly patients (P = .001).

Conclusions

The severity of CKD predicts the likelihood and type of morbidity after gastrectomy and can guide surgical decision‐making for patients with gastric cancer.
The 140 years' journey of gastric cancer surgery: From the two hands of Billroth to the multiple hands of the robot
Authors: Terashima Masanori
Published: February 2021

After the initial achievement by Billroth in 1881, surgery for gastric cancer has become increasingly extended. However, it turned out to be limited in Western countries after the publication that denied the role of extended surgery in the 1960s. While surgeons in Japan were still enthusiastic about extended surgery, the Japan Clinical Oncology Group (JCOG) conducted clinical trials to validate the role of extended surgery. Contrary to expectations, the efficacy of extended surgery was not demonstrated. In gastric cancer surgery, postoperative complications were reported to be associated with poor survival. A survival benefit could not be obtained by extended surgery, with high morbidity. Therefore, the paradigm had been changed from extended surgery to minimally invasive surgery (MIS). As an MIS for gastric cancer, laparoscopic surgery has been considered a practical method. Initial laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG) was first performed by Kitano in 1991. Thereafter, LG became increasingly common. Several clinical trials demonstrated the noninferiority of LG to open gastrectomy. LG is now regarded as the standard for cStage I gastric cancer, and the indication is expanding to advanced cancer. However, LG has some drawbacks owing to the restriction of movement caused by straight‐shaped forceps. Robotic gastrectomy (RG) is considered a major breakthrough to circumvent the drawbacks in LG using articulated devices. However, the solid evidence demonstrating the advantage of RG has not been proved yet. The JCOG is now conducting a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the superiority of RG to LG in terms of reducing morbidity.
Aggregated structures and their functionalities in hydrogels
Authors: Cui Kunpeng , Gong Jian Ping
Published: February 2021

Biological soft tissues and hydrogels belong to the same category of soft and wet matter. Both of them are composed of polymer network and a certain amount of water, and permeable to small molecules. Biological tissues possess elaborated structures and exhibit outstanding functionalities. On the other hand, hydrogels are usually amorphous with poor functionality. In recent years, various hydrogels with robust functionalities have been developed by introducing aggregated structures into the gel networks, widely extend their applications in diverse fields, such as soft actuators, biological sensors, and structural biomaterials. Four strategies are usually used to fabricate aggregated structure into hydrogels, including molecular self‐assembling, microphase separation, crystallization, and inorganic additives. Different aggregated structures entail the gel very different functionalities. A simple aggregated structure is able to bring multiple functionalities and a combination of mechanical performances of the hydrogels. In this review, we describe the strategies used to construct aggerated structure in hydrogels and discuss about the close relation between the aggregated structure and functionality. We also highlight the role of nonequilibrium aggregated structure in fabricating hydrogels with dynamic memorizing‐forgetting behavior and point out the remaining challenges.
Pollinator assemblage and pollen load differences on sympatric diploid and tetraploid cytotypes of the desert‐dominantLarrea tridentata
Authors: Laport Robert G. , Minckley Robert L. , Pilson Diana
Published: February 2021

Premise

Whole‐genome duplication (polyploidy) is an important force shaping flowering‐plant evolution. Ploidy‐specific plant–pollinator interactions represent important community‐level biotic interactions that can lead to nonrandom mating and the persistence of mixed‐ploidy populations.

Methods

At a naturally occurring diploid–tetraploid contact zone of the autopolyploid desert shrubLarrea tridentata, we combined flower phenology analyses, collections of bees on plants of known cytotype, and flow cytometry analyses of bee‐collected pollen loads to investigate whether (1) diploid and tetraploid plants have unique bee pollinator assemblages, (2) bee taxa exhibit ploidy‐specific visitation and pollen collection biases, and (3) specialist and generalist bee taxa have ploidy‐specific visitation and pollen collection biases.

Results

Although bee assemblages overlapped, we found significant differences in bee visitation to co‐occurring diploids and tetraploids, with the introduced honeybee (Apis mellifera) and one native species (Andrenaspecies 12) more frequently visiting tetraploids. Consistent with bee assemblage differences, we found that diploid pollen was overrepresented among pollen loads on native bees, while pollen loads onA. melliferadid not deviate from the random expectation. However, mismatches between the ploidy of pollen loads and plants were common, consistent with ongoing intercytotype gene flow.

Conclusions

Our data are consistent with cytotype‐specific bee visitation and suggest that pollinator behavior contributes to reduced diploid–tetraploid mating. Differences in bee visitation and pollen movement potentially contribute to an easing of minority cytotype exclusion and the facilitation of cytotype co‐occurrence.
Quaternary diversification of a columnar cactus in the driest place on earth
Authors: Merklinger Felix F. , Böhnert Tim , Arakaki Mónica , Weigend Maximilian , Quandt Dietmar , Luebert Federico
Published: February 2021

Premise

The cactus family (Cactaceae) is a speciose lineage with an almost entirely New World distribution. The genusEulychniawith eight currently recognized species is endemic to the Atacama and Peruvian Deserts. Here we investigated the phylogeny of this group based on a complete taxon sampling to elucidate species delimitation and biogeographic history of the genus.

Methods

A family‐wide Bayesian molecular clock dating based on plastid sequence data was conducted to estimate the age ofEulychniaand its divergence from its sister genusAustrocactus. A second data set obtained from genotyping by sequencing (GBS) was analyzed, using the family‐wide age estimate as a secondary calibration to date the GBS phylogeny using a penalized likelihood approach. Ancestral ranges were inferred employing the dispersal extinction cladogenesis approach.

Results

Our GBS phylogeny ofEulychniawas fully resolved with high support values nearly throughout the phylogeny. The split fromAustrocactusoccurred in the late Miocene, andEulychniadiversified during the early Quaternary. Three lineages were retrieved:Eulychnia ritterifrom Peru is sister to all Chilean species, which in turn fall into two sister clades of three and four species, respectively. Diversification in the Chilean clades started in the early Pleistocene.Eulychnialikely originated at the coastal range of its distribution and colonized inland locations several times.

Conclusions

Diversification ofEulychniaduring the Pleistocene coincides with long periods of hyperaridity alternated with pluvial phases. Hyperaridity caused habitat fragmentation, ultimately leading to speciation and resulting in the current allopatric distribution of taxa.
Evolutionary ecology of Agave: distribution patterns, phylogeny, and coevolution (an homage to Howard S. Gentry)
Authors: Eguiarte Luis E. , Jiménez Barrón Ofelia A. , Aguirre‐Planter Erika , Scheinvar Enrique , Gámez Niza , Gasca‐Pineda Jaime , Castellanos‐Morales Gabriela , Moreno‐Letelier Alejandra , Souza Valeria
Published: February 2021

With more than 200 species, the genus Agave is one of the most interesting and complex groups of plants in the world, considering for instance its great diversity and adaptations. The adaptations include the production of a single, massive inflorescence (the largest among plants) where after growing for many years, sometimes more than 30, the rosette dies shortly afterward, and the remarkable coevolution with their main pollinators, nectarivorous bats, in particular of the genus Leptonycteris. The physiological adaptations of Agave species include a photosynthetic metabolism that allows efficient use of water and a large degree of succulence, helping to store water and resources for their massive flowering event. Ecologically, the agaves are keystone species on which numerous animal species depend for their subsistence due to the large amounts of pollen and nectar they produce, that support many pollinators, including bats, perching birds, hummingbirds, moths, and bees. Moreover, in many regions of Mexico and in the southwestern United States, agaves are dominant species. We describe the contributions of H. S. Gentry to the understanding of agaves and review recent advances on the study of the ecology and evolution of the genus. We analyze the present and inferred past distribution patterns of different species in the genus, describing differences in their climatic niche and adaptations to dry conditions. We interpret these patterns using molecular clock data and phylogenetic analyses and information of their coevolving pollinators and from phylogeographic, morphological, and ecological studies and discuss the prospects for their future conservation and management.
Germ cell mosaicism for AUTS2 exon 6 deletion
Authors: Gieldon Laura , Jauch Anna , Obeid Katharina , Kaufmann Lilian , Hinderhofer Katrin , Haug Ulrich , Moog Ute
Published: February 2021

Haploinsufficiency of AUTS2 has been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders and dysmorphic features (MIM # 615834). More than 50 patients have been described, mostly carrying de novo deletions of one or more exons, including eight patients with exon 6 deletions. We report on two siblings, a girl and a boy aged 11 and 13 years, in whom the same pathogenic 85 kb deletion on 7q11.22 encompassing exon 6 of AUTS2 by SNP array analysis was identified. Both children had typical symptoms of AUTS2 syndrome such as intellectual impairment and behavioral problems, but with markedly different expression. SNP array analysis excluded the deletion in blood samples of both parents and a healthy brother. Conventional karyotyping of both parents and additional FISH analyses, marking the flanking regions of the deletion, did not show any structural rearrangements involving 7q11.22. A germ cell mosaicism was suggested as the most probable explanation for occurrence of the same deletion in these two siblings. To our knowledge this is the first report of germ cell mosaicism for AUTS2 syndrome. It additionally provides further evidence of intrafamilial phenotypic variability in AUTS2 syndrome and adds clinical information to the phenotypic spectrum of patients with AUTS2 exon 6 deletions.
Clinical characterization of individuals with the distal 1q21.1 microdeletion
Authors: Edwards Stacey D. , Schulze Katharina V. , Rosenfeld Jill A. , Westerfield Lauren E. , Gerard Amanda , Yuan Bo , Grigorenko Elena L. , Posey Jennifer E. , Bi Weimin , Liu Pengfei
Published: February 2021

Distal 1q21.1 microdeletions have shown highly variable clinical expressivity and incomplete penetrance, with affected individuals manifesting a broad spectrum of nonspecific features. The goals of this study were to better describe the phenotypic spectrum of patients with distal 1q21.1 microdeletions and to compare the clinical features among affected individuals. We performed a retrospective chart review of 47 individuals with distal 1q21.1 microdeletions tested at a large clinical genetic testing laboratory, with most patients being clinically evaluated in the same children's hospital. Health information such as growth charts, results of imaging studies, developmental history, and progress notes were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher's exact test to compare clinical features among study subjects. Common features in our cohort include microcephaly (51.2%), seizures (29.8%), developmental delay (74.5%), failure to thrive (FTT) (68.1%), dysmorphic features (63.8%), and a variety of congenital anomalies such as cardiac abnormalities (23.4%) and genitourinary abnormalities (19.1%). Compared to prior literature, we found that seizures, brain anomalies, and FTT were more prevalent among our study cohort. Females were more likely than males to have microcephaly (p = 0.0199) and cardiac abnormalities (p = 0.0018). Based on existing genome‐wide clinical testing results, at least a quarter of the cohort had additional genetic findings that may impact the phenotype of the individual. Our study represents the largest cohort of distal 1q21.1 microdeletion carriers available in the literature thus far, and it further illustrates the wide spectrum of clinical manifestations among symptomatic individuals. These results may allow for improved genetic counseling and management of affected individuals. Future studies may help to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms impacting the phenotypic variability observed with this microdeletion.
Leveraging population‐based exome screening to impact clinical care: The evolution of variant assessment in the Geisinger MyCode research project
Authors: Kelly Melissa A , Leader Joseph B , Wain Karen E , Bodian Dale , Oetjens Matthew T , Ledbetter David H , Martin Christa L , Strande Natasha T
Published: February 2021

Exome and genome sequencing are increasingly utilized in research studies and clinical care and can provide clinically relevant information beyond the initial intent for sequencing, including medically actionable secondary findings. Despite ongoing debate about sharing this information with patients and participants, a growing number of clinical laboratories and research programs routinely report secondary findings that increase the risk for selected diseases. Recently, there has been a push to maximize the potential benefit of this practice by implementing proactive genomic screening at the population level irrespective of medical history, but the feasibility of deploying population‐scale proactive genomic screening requires scaling key elements of the genomic data evaluation process. Herein, we describe the motivation, development, and implementation of a population‐scale variant‐first screening pipeline combining bioinformatics‐based filtering with a manual review process to screen for clinically relevant findings in research exomes generated through the DiscovEHR collaboration within Geisinger's MyCode® research project. Consistent with other studies, this pipeline yields a screen‐positive detection rate between 2.1 and 2.6% (depending on inclusion of those with prior indication‐based testing) in 130,048 adult MyCode patient‐participants screened for clinically relevant findings in 60 genes. Our variant‐first pipeline affords cost and time savings by filtering out negative cases, thereby avoiding analysis of each exome one‐by‐one, as typically employed in the diagnostic setting. While research is still needed to fully appreciate the benefits of population genomic screening, MyCode provides the first demonstration of a program at scale to help shape how population genomic screening is integrated into routine clinical care.
Diagnosing odontogenic sinusitis: An international multidisciplinary consensus statement
Authors: Craig John R. , Poetker David M. , Aksoy Umut , Allevi Fabiana , Biglioli Federico , Cha Bruce Y. , Chiapasco Matteo , Lechien Jerome R. , Safadi Ahmad , Simuntis Regimantas , Tataryn Roderick , Testori Tiziano , Troeltzsch Matthias , Vaitkus Saulius , Yokoi Hidenori , Felisati Giovanni , Saibene Alberto M.
Published: February 2021

Background

Odontogenic sinusitis (ODS) is distinct from non‐odontogenic rhinosinusitis, and often requires multidisciplinary collaboration between otolaryngologists and dental providers to make the diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to develop international multidisciplinary consensus on diagnosing ODS.

Methods

A modified Delphi method was used to assess for expert consensus on diagnosing bacterial ODS. A multidisciplinary panel of 17 authors with ODS expertise from 8 countries (8 otolaryngologists, 9 dental specialists) was assembled. Each author completed 2 of 3 surveys (2 specialty‐specific, and 1 for all authors). Thirty‐seven clinical statements were created, focusing on 4 important diagnostic components: suspecting ODS; confirming sinusitis in ODS; confirming different dental pathologies causing ODS; and multidisciplinary collaborative aspects of diagnosing ODS. Target audiences were all otolaryngologists and dental providers.

Results

Of the 37 clinical statements, 36 reached consensus or strong consensus, and 1 reached no consensus. Strong consensus was reached that certain clinical and microbiologic features should arouse suspicion for ODS, and that multidisciplinary collaboration between otolaryngologists and dental providers is generally required to diagnose ODS. To diagnose ODS, otolaryngologists should confirm sinusitis mainly based on nasal endoscopic findings of middle meatal purulence, edema, or polyps, and dental providers should confirm dental pathology based on clinical examination and dental imaging.

Conclusion

Based on multidisciplinary international consensus, diagnosing ODS generally requires otolaryngologists to confirm sinusitis, and dental providers to confirm maxillary odontogenic pathology. Importantly, both dental providers and otolaryngologists should suspect ODS based on certain clinical features, and refer patients to appropriate providers for disease confirmation.
Onset of Preclinical Alzheimer Disease in Monozygotic Twins
Authors: Konijnenberg Elles , Tomassen Jori , den Braber Anouk , ten Kate Mara , Yaqub Maqsood , Mulder Sandra D. , Nivard Michel G. , Vanderstichele Hugo , Lammertsma Adriaan A. , Teunissen Charlotte E. , van Berckel Bart N. M. , Boomsma Dorret I. , Scheltens Philip , Tijms Betty M. , Visser Pieter Jelle
Published: February 2021

Objective

The present work was undertaken to study the genetic contribution to the start of Alzheimer's disease (AD) with amyloid and tau biomarkers in cognitively intact older identical twins.

Methods

We studied in 96 monozygotic twin‐pairs relationships between amyloid‐beta (Aβ) aggregation as measured by the Aβ1–42/1–40 ratio in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF; n = 126) and positron emission tomography (PET, n = 194), and CSF markers for Aβ production (beta‐secretase 1, Aβ1–40, and Aβ1–38) and CSF tau. Associations among markers were tested with generalized estimating equations including a random effect for twin status, adjusted for age, gender, and apolipoprotein E ε4 genotype. We used twin analyses to determine relative contributions of genetic and/or environmental factors to AD pathophysiological processes.

Results

Twenty‐seven individuals (14%) had an abnormal amyloid PET, and 14 twin‐pairs (15%) showed discordant amyloid PET scans. Within twin‐pairs, Aβ production markers and total‐tau (t‐tau) levels strongly correlated (r range = 0.73–0.86, all p < 0.0001), and Aβ aggregation markers and 181‐phosphorylated‐tau (p‐tau) levels correlated moderately strongly (r range = 0.50–0.64, all p < 0.0001). Cross‐twin cross‐trait analysis showed that Aβ1–38 in one twin correlated with Aβ1–42/1–40 ratios, and t‐tau and p‐tau levels in their cotwins (r range = −0.28 to 0.58, all p < .007). Within‐pair differences in Aβ production markers related to differences in tau levels (r range = 0.49–0.61, all p < 0.0001). Twin discordance analyses suggest that Aβ production and tau levels show coordinated increases in very early AD.

Interpretation

Our results suggest a substantial genetic/shared environmental background contributes to both Aβ and tau increases, suggesting that modulation of environmental risk factors may aid in delaying the onset of AD pathophysiological processes. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:987–1000
Common X‐Chromosome Variants Are Associated with Parkinson Disease Risk
Authors: Le Guen Yann , Napolioni Valerio , Belloy Michael E. , Yu Eric , Krohn Lynne , Ruskey Jennifer A. , Gan‐Or Ziv , Kennedy Gabriel , Eger Sarah J. , Greicius Michael D.
Published: February 2021

Objective

The objective of this study was to identify genetic variants on the X‐chromosome associated with Parkinson disease (PD) risk.

Methods

We performed an X‐chromosome–wide association study (XWAS) of PD risk by meta‐analyzing results from sex‐stratified analyses. To avoid spurious associations, we designed a specific harmonization pipeline for the X‐chromosome and focused on a European ancestry sample. We included 11,142 cases, 280,164 controls, and 5,379 proxy cases, based on parental history of PD. Additionally, we tested the association of significant variants with (1) PD risk in an independent replication with 1,561 cases and 2,465 controls and (2) putamen volume in 33,360 individuals from the UK Biobank.

Results

In the discovery meta‐analysis, we identified rs7066890 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.06–1.14, p = 2.2 × 10−9), intron of GPM6B, and rs28602900 (OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.07–1.14, p = 1.6 × 10−8) in a high gene density region including RPL10, ATP6A1, FAM50A, and PLXNA3. The rs28602900 association with PD was replicated (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.03–1.30, p = 0.016) and shown to colocalize with a significant expression quantitative locus (eQTL) regulating RPL10 expression in the putamen and other brain tissues in the Genotype‐Tissue Expression Project. Additionally, the rs28602900 locus was found to be associated with reduced brain putamen volume. No results reached genome‐wide significance in the sex‐stratified analyses.

Interpretation

We report the first XWAS of PD and identify 2 genome‐wide significant loci. The rs28602900 association was replicated in an independent PD dataset and showed concordant effects in its association with putamen volume. Critically, rs26802900 is a significant eQTL of RPL10. These results support a role for ribosomal proteins in PD pathogenesis and show that the X‐chromosome contributes to PD genetic risk. ANN NEUROL 2021;90:22–34
Distribution and Generation of Quantum Coherence for Gaussian States in de Sitter Space
Authors: Liu Qianqian , Wen Cuihong , Wang Jieci , Jing Jiliang
Published: February 2021

The distribution and generation of quantum coherence for two‐mode and multi‐mode Gaussian states in de Sitter space are studied. It is found that the quantum coherence is redistributed among the mode in different open charts under the curvature effect of de Sitter space. In particular, the Gaussian coherence for the initially correlated state is found to survive in the limit of infinite curvature, while quantum entanglement vanishes in this limit. Unlike entanglement and steering, the coherence of a massive scalar field is more robust than a massless field under the influence of curvature of de Sitter space. In addition, it is shown that the curvature generates two‐mode Gaussian state and three‐mode Gaussian state quantum coherence among the open charts, even though the observers are localized in causally disconnected regions. It is worth noting that the gravity‐generated three‐mode coherence is extremely sensitive to the curvature effect for the conformal and massless scalar fields, which may be in principle employed to design an effective detector for the space curvature.
Impact of In‐Cell and In‐Vitro Crowding on the Conformations and Dynamics of an Intrinsically Disordered Protein
Authors: König Iwo , Soranno Andrea , Nettels Daniel , Schuler Benjamin
Published: February 2021

The conformations and dynamics of proteins can be influenced by crowding from the large concentrations of macromolecules within cells. Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) exhibit chain compaction in crowded solutions in vitro, but no such effects were observed in cultured mammalian cells. Here, to increase intracellular crowding, we reduced the cell volume by hyperosmotic stress and used an IDP as a crowding sensor for in‐cell single‐molecule spectroscopy. In these more crowded cells, the IDP exhibits compaction, slower chain dynamics, and much slower translational diffusion, indicating a pronounced concentration and length‐scale dependence of crowding. In vitro, these effects cannot be reproduced with small but only with large polymeric crowders. The observations can be explained with polymer theory and depletion interactions and indicate that IDPs can diffuse much more efficiently through a crowded cytosol than a globular protein of similar dimensions.
Growth of Homogeneous High‐Density Horizontal SWNT Arrays on Sapphire through a Magnesium‐Assisted Catalyst Anchoring Strategy
Authors: Xie Ying , Qian Liu , Lin Dewu , Yu Yue , Wang Shanshan , Zhang Jin
Published: February 2021

In‐situ growth of high‐density single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) arrays with homogeneity is highly desirable for integrated circuits. However, disastrous migration and aggregation of catalyst nanoparticles on substrate has greatly limited the area of as‐grown SWNT arrays. Herein, we develop a magnesium‐assisted catalyst anchoring strategy to restrain catalyst nanoparticles sintering on substrate. Magnesium modification ameliorates sapphire surface by high temperature solid reaction and thus provides a stronger metal‐support interaction (SMSI). Hereby, we realize the direct growth of high‐density SWNT arrays that fully cover an entire 10×10 mm2 substrate with the local highest density of ≈110 tubes μm−1 using iron as catalyst. This strategy was also proven universal when employing solid carbide catalysts.
The Acidities of Nucleophilic Monofluoromethylation Reagents: An Anomalous α‐Fluorine Effect
Authors: Zheng Hanliang , Li Zhen , Jing Jianfang , Xue Xiao‐Song , Cheng Jin‐Pei
Published: February 2021

Fluorine incorporation into organic molecules is expected to lower the pKa of neighboring functionality via its strong electron‐withdrawing effect, and this strategy has been widely exploited in diverse disciplines. Herein, we report a striking anomalous α‐fluorine substitution effect on the α‐Csp3‐H acidity. We have experimentally measured the pKa values of a series of popular nucleophilic monofluoromethylating reagents α‐fluoro(phenylsulfonyl)methane derivatives as well as their C‐H analogues by Bordwell's overlapping indicator method in dimethyl sulfoxide solution. Contrary to expectations, we found that α‐fluorine substituent does not generally enhance but rather weaken the α‐Csp3‐H acidity of most (phenylsulfonyl)methane derivatives. DFT computations reproduce and provide insight into the anomalous α‐fluorine effect. A correlation was identified between the C‐H pKa of (phenylsulfonyl)methane derivatives and Mayr's nucleophilicity parameter (N) of the corresponding carbanions.
Solvothermal fusion of Ag‐ and N‐doped LiTaO3 perovskite nanospheres for improved photocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Kalaiselvi C.R. , Senthil T.S. , Shankar M.V. , Sasirekha V.
Published: February 2021

Tantalate semiconductor photocatalyst has received significant attention as an alternative promising material to mitigate the globally increasing energy demand with the course of action of the produced hydrogen. In this report, an efficient enhancement in the hydrogen production under ultraviolet (UV) light by Ag‐ and N‐doped LiTaO3 via solvothermal strategy is proposed. The structural appearance and the spherical morphology are affirmed from the X‐ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis. The bandgap of the prepared photocatalysts is calculated as 5.12, 4.92, and 4.82 eV for undoped LiTaO3, Ag, and N‐doped LiTaO3 nanoparticles using Tauc's plot. Moreover, the band position of the synthesized LiTaO3 and also with its dopants is calculated by the Mulliken electro negativity method. The elemental composition of the synthesized photocatalyst is confirmed from the energy dispersive analysis (EDS). Photocatalytic water splitting results over Ag‐ and N‐doped LiTaO3 photocatalyst showed that the rate of H2 evolution from formic acid aqueous solution was 240 and 123 μmolh−1 with an apparent quantum yield of 3.11% and 1.59%, whereas for undoped LiTaO3, the rate is quite lower to be 71 μmolh−1. The reason behind the high catalytic activity of Ag‐doped LiTaO3 is explained by the fact that the higher electronegativity of Ag (1.93) as compared with Ta (1.5) resulted in quite transfer of photoexcited electrons from the conduction band of LiTaO3 to the Ag species. Interestingly, up to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study regarding the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution for Ag‐ and N‐doped LiTaO3.
Corn starch/PVA bioplastics—The properties and biodegradability study using Chlorella vulgaris cultivation
Authors: Lim Rowen , Kiew Peck Loo , Lam Man Kee , Yeoh Wei Ming , Ho Mui Yen
Published: February 2021

In this study, a biodegradable alternative to synthetic plastics was explored, where gelatinized corn starch was blended with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) using the solution casting method at different ratios. Tensile tests showed that films made of only starch exhibited the lowest tensile strength at 3.66 MPa, which increased as the ratio of PVA in the blend was raised. The water vapor transmission rate was similar even when the starch content was changed. PVA was shown to increase the solubility of the film in water, and starch demonstrated a better ability to absorb water than that of PVA, with the pure starch film swelled up to 167% of its original weight. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis revealed that there was no significant chemical interaction between the starch and PVA which could alter their respective functional groups. Bioplastic films made of only starch showed the least amount of degradation after 3 days when buried in soil, while water uptake in films made of PVA caused it to turn into a sticky gel‐like substance. Chlorella vulgaris exhibited a higher preference for PVA as the substrate when compared to starch. This revealed that C. vulgaris showed promise as a candidate for breaking down the bioplastic films when grown as a heterotroph.
A model to predict the solubility and permeability of gaseous penetrant in the glassy polymeric membrane at high pressure
Authors: Shoghl Sina Nabati , Pazuki Gholamreza , Raisi Ahmadreza
Published: February 2021

In this work, the transport properties of gaseous penetrant through several dense glassy polymeric membranes are studied. The nonequilibrium lattice fluid (NELF) in conjunction with the modified Fick's law and dual mode sorption model was used to simulate the gas transport in glassy polymeric membranes. The approach is based on the sorption, diffusion, in which solubility is calculated based on the NELF model, and diffusion coefficient is obtained from the product thermodynamic coefficient and molecular mobility. The governing equation is solved by the finite element method using COMSOL multi‐physics software. The developed model for gas permeability of glassy polymeric membrane can be applied in a wide range of pressure and temperature. The comparison of the calculated permeability and solubility of gasses with the experimental data represented the ability of the developed model. Increasing feed gas temperature increases the gas permeability, while this variation leads to lower gas solubility in the glassy polymeric membranes. The effect of feed temperature and pressure on permeability and solubility is investigated, and the experimental data from literature are described by the developed model. A good prediction of the experimental data can be observed over the considered condition.
Shape memory polyurethane‐based electrospun yarns for thermo‐responsive actuation
Authors: Guan Xiaoyu , Xia Hong , Ni Qing‐Qing
Published: February 2021

Electrospun nanofibrous yarns of shape memory polyurethane (SMPU)‐based nanofibers were successfully prepared. The electrospun yarns were analyzed to assess the dependence of mechanical and shape memory properties on the yarn twist angle. The yarn with a 60° twist angle has high compactness and density, leading to increased tensile strength, elastic modulus, and strain energy. In addition, this yarn shows a significant improvement in the shape memory recovery stress compared with the non‐twisted SMPU nanofibers. Moreover, thermal stimuli allowed for the 60° twisted yarn to lift a load that is 103 times heavier than itself. This yarn had a shape recovery stress of 0.61 MPa and generated a 7.95 mJ recovery energy. The results suggest the electrospun yarns could be used as actuators and sensing devices in the medical and biological fields.
Investigating the effect of water‐mixing nitrogen atmospheric pressure plasma jet on polyether‐ether‐ketone and time stability under different conditions
Authors: Liu Xin , Guan Naiqiao , Shen Haiyang , Zhang Zhongtao , Chen Boxi , Li Yuheng , Hua Shungang
Published: February 2021

Possessing excellent properties including good biocompatibility, high strength, and stiffness, polyether‐ether‐ketone (PEEK) has significant application values in medical and industrial fields. However, the relatively poor wettability and low adhesion limit its further applications. Atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) has been utilized for adjusting PEEK properties, but better hydrophilization effect and time stability after treatment are still urgently needed. In this paper, we employ a water‐mixing nitrogen (N2H2O) APPJ to process PEEK, and surface wettability can be effectively improved (contact angle ~18° within 2 min, distance between sample and nozzle outlet: 10 mm) without inducing obvious microstructure damages. Additionally, after storing for 40 days, the sample treated by N2H2O APPJ also possessed better wettability (~54°) compared with that treated by N2 APPJ (~65°). On the basis of this low‐damage and high‐efficient modification method, we perform aging experiments under different conditions (different temperatures 25, −10°C; and low vacuum condition: 50 kPa) to determine a relatively optimum storing condition for this method. The experiment results indicate that low temperature and vacuum are conducive to retaining the plasma‐induced wettability (~34°). The treatment method and storing conditions for PEEK presented here may facilitate the application of PEEK in various fields.
Antioxidant functionalization of biomaterials via reactive extrusion
Authors: Herskovitz Joshua E. , Goddard Julie M.
Published: February 2021

Concern over environmental contamination and the need for industrially produced functional biopolymers motivates the utilization of reactive extrusion for functional grafting. Antioxidant nonmigratory active materials were synthesized through 1,3‐bis(4,5‐dihydro‐2‐oxazolyl)benzene ring opening polymerization with bio‐based poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and antioxidant nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA). Grafting was confirmed through the introduction of new alkyl stretching, disappearance of the characteristic 1,3‐bis(4,5‐dihydro‐2‐oxazolyl)benzene band, and emergence of new amide band on attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) showed stepwise increases in atomic nitrogen percentage and shifts in proportion of CC:CO bonding, confirming grafting and surface orientation. Antioxidant samples exhibited significant increases in carboxylate density, ranging from 0.75 ± 0.04 to 3.11 ± 0.04 nmol/cm2. Functionalized films demonstrated significant antioxidant properties with Trolox(eq) ranging from 0.36 ± 0.02 to 0.89 ± 0.07 nmol/cm2 according to radical scavenging studies and delayed greater than 52% of ascorbic acid degradation. This work develops a rapid functionalization method for biopolymers and displays efficacy in producing sustainable nonmigratory active materials.
Epicardial Adipose Tissue Volume As a Marker of Subclinical Coronary Atherosclerosis in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Karpouzas George A. , Rezaeian Panteha , Ormseth Sarah R. , Hollan Ivana , Budoff Matthew J.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To assess epicardial adipose tissue volume (EATV) and its link to coronary atherosclerosis and plaque morphology in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and in age‐ and sex‐matched controls.

Methods

Computed tomography angiography was used to evaluate EATV and coronary plaque in 139 RA patients and 139 non‐RA controls. All models assessing the effect of EATV on plaque were adjusted for age, sex, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking status, family history of coronary artery disease, and obesity (body mass index of ≥30 kg/m2). Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated.

Results

Mean ± SD log‐transformed EATV was similar in patients with RA (4.69 ± 0.36) and controls (4.70 ± 0.42). EATV was higher in RA patients with atherosclerosis compared to those without atherosclerosis (P = 0.046). In stratified analyses, EATV was associated with the number of segments with plaque in RA patients (rate ratio 1.20 [95% CI 1.01–1.41] per 1‐SD increment of log‐unit increase in EATV) but not in controls (P for interaction = 0.089). Likewise, EATV (per 1‐SD log‐unit increase) was related to the presence of multivessel or obstructive disease (OR 1.63 [95% CI 1.04–2.61]), noncalcified plaque (OR 1.78 [95% CI 1.17–2.70]), and vulnerable plaque (OR 1.77 [95% CI 1.03–3.04]) in RA patients but not in controls (P for interaction ≤ 0.048 for each). Among RA patients, EATV was associated with the number of segments with plaque in those with RA for <10 years who did not develop any cardiovascular risk factors and who were not obese (P for interaction ≤ 0.017).

Conclusion

Despite similar EATVs in RA patients and controls, EATVs were associated with greater plaque burden and presence of plaques with a noncalcified component and vulnerability features only in RA patients. EAT may be more pathogenic in RA and play a role in early‐stage atherosclerosis. Its value as a biomarker of subclinical atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk in RA warrants further studies.
Investigation of magneto‐thermal evolution of AXP 1E 2259 + 586
Authors: Wang Hui , Yang Xiao‐Feng , Song Dong‐Ling , Jia Huan‐Yu
Published: February 2021

In this work, we calculated the toroidal magnetic field decay rates and magnetic energy decay rates by considering the general relativity effect of AXP 1E2259 + 586 associated with the supernova remnant CTB 109. The results confirmed that the high thermal radiation on the surface of the star could be attributed to Joule heating caused by the dissipation of crustal magnetic field. We also investigated the effects of ultrastrong magnetic fields on magnetization parameter and thermal conductivity in the crust.