bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural mechanisms of psychosis vulnerability and perceptual abnormalities in the ALS‐FTD spectrum
Authors: Devenney Emma M. , Tu Sicong , Caga Jashelle , Ahmed Rebekah M. , Ramsey Eleanor , Zoing Margie , Kwok John , Halliday Glenda M. , Piguet Olivier , Hodges John R. , Kiernan Matthew C.
Published: June 2021

Objective

The aims of this study were to (i) explore psychotic experiences across the entire amyotrophic lateral sclerosis‐frontotemporal dementia (ALS‐FTD) spectrum from a clinical and genetic perspective, (ii) determine the rate of abnormal perceptual experiences across the five sensory modalities and (iii) explore the neurobiological factors that lead to psychosis vulnerability in ALS‐FTD.

Methods

In a prospective case‐controlled study design, 100 participants were enrolled including ALS (n = 37, 24% satisfied criteria for ALS‐Plus), ALS‐FTD (n = 11), bvFTD (n = 27) and healthy controls (n = 25). Psychotic experiences, perceptual abnormalities and psychosocial factors were determined by means of the clinical interview and carer and patient reports. Voxel‐based morphometry analyses determined atrophy patterns in patients experiencing psychosis‐like experiences and other perceptual abnormalities.

Results

The rates of psychotic experiences and abnormalities of perception in each sensory modality were high across the entire ALS‐FTD continuum. The rate was highest in those with C9orf72 expansions. Rates were also high in patients with pure ALS including psychosis measured by carer‐based reports (18%) and self‐report measures of psychotic‐like experiences (21%). In an ENTER regression model, social anxiety and ACE‐III scores were the best predictors of psychosis proneness, accounting for 44% of the score variance. Psychosis‐like experiences and perceptual abnormalities were associated with a predominantly frontal and temporal pattern of atrophy that extended to the cerebellum and centred on the anterior thalamus.

Interpretation

The model for psychosis proneness in ALS‐FTD likely includes complex interactions between cognitive, social and neurobiological factors that determine vulnerability to psychosis and that may have relevance for individualised patient management.
An innovate filter for space robots to unfirmly capture tumbling targets
Authors: Che Dejia , Zheng Zixuan , Yuan Jianping
Published: June 2021

In the postcapture stage, relative motion could exist between the target and the robot end‐effector, which is called unfirm capture . Unmodeled and time‐varying dynamic and kinematic coupling in unfirm capture cases obstructs the estimation of target inertia properties and relative motion states. To solve this problem, vision navigation information and general dynamic equations are combined to compensate unknown coupling dynamics based on the extended Kalman filter. To avoid disturbing force and torque reducing the precision of the state estimation, a recursive least square multiplicative extended Kalman filter is developed. By minimizing deviations between expected statistics and real statistics of process noise, this novel filter estimates parameters of the external disturbance. Simulations are carried out to demonstrate the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed filter.
Transparent Omni‐Directional Stretchable Circuit Lines Made by a Junction‐Free Grid of Expandable Au Lines
Authors: Kong Minsik , You Insang , Lee Gilwoon , Park Gyeongbae , Kim Jaehyun , Park Doowon , Jeong Unyong
Published: June 2021

Although various stretchable optoelectronic devices have been reported, omni‐directionally stretchable transparent circuit lines have been a great challenge. Cracks are engineered and fabricated to be highly conductive patterned metal circuit lines in which gold (Au) grids are embedded. Au is deposited selectively in the cracks to form a grid without any junction between the grid lines. Since each grid line is expandable under stretching, the circuit lines are stretchable in all the directions. This study shows that a thin coating of aluminum on the oxide surface enables precise control of the cracks (crack density, crack depth) in the oxide layer. High optical transparency and high stretchability can be achieved simultaneously by controlling the grid density in the circuit line. Light‐emitting diodes are integrated directly on the circuit lines and stable operation is demonstrated under 100% stretching.
Ultralong Tracking of Fast‐Diffusing Nano‐Objects inside Nanofluidic Channel−Enhanced Microstructured Optical Fiber
Authors: Gui Fengji , Jiang Shiqi , Förster Ronny , Plidschun Malte , Weidlich Stefan , Zhao Jiangbo , Schmidt Markus A.
Published: June 2021

Nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) represents one essential technology to characterize diffusing nanoscale objects. Herein, uncovering dynamic processes and high‐precision measurements requires tracks with thousands of frames to reach high statistical significance, ideally at high frame rates. Optical fibers with nanochannels are used for NTA, successfully demonstrating acquisition of trajectories of fast diffusion nano‐objects with 100 000 frames. Due to the spatial limitation of the central nanofluidic channel, diffusion of objects illuminated by the core mode is confined, enabling the recording of Brownian motion over extraordinarily long time scales at high frame rates. The resulting benefits are discussed on a representative track of a gold nanosphere diffusing in water in over nearly 100 000 frames at 2 kHz frame rate. In addition to the verification of the fiber‐based NTA using two data processing methods, a segmented analysis reveals a correlation between precision of determined diameter and continuous time interval (i.e., number of frames per subtrajectory). The presented results demonstrate the capabilities of fiber‐based NTA in terms of 1) determining diameters with extraordinary high precision of single species and 2) monitoring dynamic processes of the object or the fluidic environment, both of which are relevant within biology, microrheology, and nano‐object characterization.
A Simple Integratable Silicon Photodetector Covering the Short‐Wave Infrared and Optical Communication Bands at 1.3 and 1.55 μm
Authors: Zhou Shihao , Xia Xiaohong , Gao Yun , Rong Li , Lourenço Manon , Homewood Kevin
Published: June 2021

Silicon photodetectors and camera chips are ubiquitous in the visible region of the spectrum and the near‐infrared. However, their large bandgap prevents their use at longer, technologically very important, wavelengths. The band‐edge‐modified rare‐earth detectors in silicon demonstrated here, fabricated using standard silicon technology tools, offer a route to these wavelengths and room‐temperature operation. Ion implantation of the usual n‐ and p‐type dopants, arsenic and boron, into commercial silicon wafers is used to fabricate a standard silicon p–n junction. Further implants of the rare earths, either Ce or Yb, are made into the depletion region to enable the extended long‐wavelength response. Detectivities up to 1.47 × 108 cm Hz1/2 W−1 and 2.89 × 107 cm Hz1/2 W−1 at 1.3 and 1.55 μm have been obtained with these simple planar devices. If integrated as lateral detectors in a silicon photonics platform, responsivities as good as standard silicon photodetectors in the visible and near‐infrared will be achievable.
Higher–Order Bragg Reflection Colors in Polymer–Stabilized Cholesteric Liquid Crystals
Authors: Lee Kyung Min , Reshetnyak Victor Yu , McConney Michael E. , Crenshaw Ecklin P. , Bunning Timothy J. , White Timothy J. , Godman Nicholas P.
Published: June 2021

The dynamic electro‐optic (EO) response of polymer‐stabilized cholesteric liquid crystals prepared using unpolarized UV light (U–PSCLC), such as reflection bandwidth broadening and either red or blue tuning of the reflection peak, has been previously reported. Herein, recent efforts to use a polarized single argon‐ion laser beam to create PSCLCs (L–PSCLCs) with higher‐order reflections are described. The L–PSCLCs exhibit a primary reflection peak in the near‐infrared (NIR) regime and a second‐order reflection band with a narrow bandwidth in the visible regime that results from a deformed in‐plane CLC helical structure. The initial positions of the reflection bands are adjusted by the chiral dopant concentrations of the CLC mixture, and red, green, and blue reflection colors from the second‐order Bragg reflection are demonstrated. The primary and the second‐order reflection bands can be shifted to longer wavelengths by application of a DC electric field. The reflection efficiency of the higher‐order reflection notch increases with polymer concentration, which affects the degree of in‐plane deformation and fixation of the CLC helix. Modeling is used to further explain the formation of the higher‐order reflection bands of PSCLCs observed experimentally.
Extracellular Vesicle Functionalized Melt Electrowritten Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Eichholz Kian F. , Federici Angelica , Riffault Mathieu , Woods Ian , Mahon Olwyn R. , O’Driscoll Lorraine , Hoey David A.
Published: June 2021

Mechanobiological cues arising directly via tissue/scaffold mechanics or indirectly via mechanically activated cell secretomes represent potent stimuli that mediate cell behavior and tissue adaptation. Exploiting these cues in regeneration strategies holds great promise for tissue repair. Herein, indirect biophysical cues originating from osteocytes in combination with direct biophysical cues from melt electrowritten (MEW) scaffolds to form a single engineered construct with the aim of synergistically enhancing osteogenesis are harnessed. The secretome of mechanically activated osteocytes is collected within conditioned media (CM) and extracellular vesicles (EVs) are subsequently isolated. Building on MEW microfibrous scaffolds with controlled microarchitecture and mineral nanotopography optimized for bone repair, a protocol is developed to functionalize these materials with CM or EVs. Human marrow stromal cell (MSC) proliferation is enhanced in both CM and EV functionalized scaffolds. EV functionalized scaffolds are further found to significantly enhance MSC osteogenesis, with enhanced alkaline phosphatase expression, collagen production, and mineralization compared with control scaffolds. Furthermore, enhanced formation of mineralized nodules is identified in EV functionalized materials. Combining direct biophysical cues provided by the fibrous architecture/mineral nanotopography with the indirect cues provided by EVs, these constructs hold great promise to enhance the repair of damaged bone in a physiologically relevant manner.
Self‐Adhesive Silicone Microstructures for the Treatment of Tympanic Membrane Perforations
Authors: Moreira Lana Gabriela , Sorg Katharina , Wenzel Gentiana Ioana , Hecker Dietmar , Hensel René , Schick Bernhard , Kruttwig Klaus , Arzt Eduard
Published: June 2021

Inspired by the gecko foot, polymeric microstructures have demonstrated reliable dry adhesion to both stiff objects and sensitive surfaces such as skin. Microstructured silicone patches are proposed, herein, for the treatment of tympanic membrane perforations with the aim of serving as an alternative for current surgical procedures that require anesthesia and ear canal packing. Sylgard 184 PDMS micropillars of 20 μm in diameter and 60 μm in length are topped by a Soft Skin Adhesive (SSA) MG7‐1010 terminal layer, of about 25 μm thickness. The adhesion is evaluated by specially designed tack tests against explanted murine eardrums and, for comparison, against a rigid substrate. Functional effects are evaluated using auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE). The adhesion strength of the microstructure and unstructured controls to explanted murine tympanic membranes is comparable (typically 12 kPa), but the microstructured patches are easier to handle by the surgeon. For the first time, partial recovery of hearing performance is measured immediately after patch application. The novel patches adhere without the need for further fixation, removing the need for ear canal packing. The proposed material design holds great promise for improving clinical treatments of tympanic membrane perforations.
Chemisch stabilisierte DNA‐Codes für DNA‐kodierte Chemie
Authors: Potowski Marco , Kunig Verena B. K. , Eberlein Lukas , Vakalopoulos Alexandros , Kast Stefan M. , Brunschweiger Andreas
Published: June 2021

DNA‐kodierte Substanzbibliotheken sind eine viel genutzte Screening‐Technologie für die Wirkstoffsuche. Ein wichtiges Kriterium im Bibliotheksdesign ist die Erzielung molekularer Vielfalt. Die chemische Reaktivität der DNA schränkt jedoch die Auswahl an Reaktionen für das Bibliotheksdesign sehr ein. Der Ersatz der Purinbasen durch 7‐Deazaadenin, das eine ähnliche Tautomerenstabilität wie natürliches Adenin aufweist und so eine Bedingung für die Watson‐Crick‐Paarbildung erfüllt, führte zu ligier‐, amplifizier‐ und lesbaren DNA‐Barcodes für kodierte Chemie mit erhöhter Stabilität gegen Depurinierung. Die Stabilität dieser Barcodes ermöglichte die Anwendung von 16 Reaktionen auf Glasfestphase‐gekoppelten DNA‐Barcodes. Diese umfassten Isocyanid‐basierte Reaktionen, Brønsted‐Säure‐vermittelte Pictet‐Spengler‐ und Biginelli‐Reaktionen und Metallionen‐vermittelte Pyrazol‐Synthesen. Boc‐Schutzgruppenchemie kann genutzt werden, um die Bibliotheksqualität durch Produktaufreinigung zu erhöhen.
Sydnonmethide – fast vergessene Mesoionen als Vorläufermoleküle von anionischen N‐heterocyclischen Carbenen
Authors: Mummel Sebastian , Lederle Felix , Hübner Eike G. , Namyslo Jan C. , Nieger Martin , Schmidt Andreas
Published: June 2021

Wir beschreiben Sydnonmethide, von denen bisher nur ein einziges Beispiel in der Literatur erwähnt worden war. Sydnonmethide können zu Anionen deprotoniert werden, die als π‐elektronenreiche anionische N‐heterocyclische Carbene formulierbar sind. Schwefel‐ und Selenaddukte konnten wir als ihre Methylether stabilisieren sowie Quecksilber‐, Gold‐ und Rhodiumkomplexe von Sydnonmethiden herstellen. Die Anionen von Sydnonmethiden gehen zudem C‐C‐Kupplungsreaktionen mit 1‐Fluor‐4‐iodbenzol unter Pd(PPh3)4‐ und CuBr‐Katalyse ein. Zur Abschätzung der elektronischen Eigenschaften dieser anionischen N‐heterocyclischen Carbene bestimmten wir die 77Se‐NMR‐Resonanzfrequenzen und die 1JC4‐Se‐Kopplungskonstanten der Selen‐Addukte sowie die 1JC4‐H‐Kopplungskonstanten der mesoionischen Vorläufermoleküle. Im Vergleich zu klassischen N‐heterocyclischen Carbenen erscheint das Carben‐Kohlenstoffatom des Sydnonmethid‐Anions 3 j in den bei −40 °C gemessenen 13C‐NMR‐Spektren mit δ=155.2 ppm bei extrem hohem Feld.
Five Step Total Synthesis of Lythranidine
Authors: Magann Nicholas L. , Blyth Mitchell T. , Sherburn Michael S.
Published: June 2021

A concise synthesis of the alkaloid lythranidine is reported. The strategy exploits the target's local C2 symmetry by adopting a two directional synthetic approach, first in an acyclic environment, then in a cyclic system and finally in a bridged macrocyclic domain. The latter phase of the synthesis, which installs all four stereocenters, involves a thermodynamically controlled, twofold intermolecular/transannular aza‐Michael addition and a twofold hydride reduction. The synthesis is one third of the length of the most step‐economic previous approach, providing access to gram quantities of the natural product. The broad‐spectrum nature of the synthesis is demonstrated through the preparation of three diastereomeric analogues of the natural product.
Fluorinated Poly‐oxalate Electrolytes Stabilizing both Anode and Cathode Interfaces for All‐Solid‐State Li/NMC811 Batteries
Authors: Sun Han , Xie Xiaoxin , Huang Qiu , Wang Zhaoxu , Chen Kejun , Li Xiaolei , Gao Jian , Li Yutao , Li Hong , Qiu Jieshan , Zhou Weidong
Published: June 2021

The relatively narrow electrochemical steady window and low ionic conductivity are two critical challenges for Li+‐conducting solid polymer electrolytes (SPE). Here, a family of poly‐oxalate(POE) structures were prepared as SPE; among them, POEs composed from diols with an odd number of carbons show higher ionic conductivity than those composed from diols with an even number of carbons, and the POE composed from propanediol (C5‐POE) has the highest Li+conductivity. The HOMO (highest occupied molecular orbital) electrons of POE were found located on the terminal units. When using trifluoroacetate as the terminating unit (POE‐F), not only does the HOMO become more negative, but also the HOMO electrons shift to the middle oxalate units, improving the antioxidative capability. Furthermore, the interfacial compatibility across the Li‐metal/POE‐F is also improved by the generation of a LiF‐based solid‐electrolyte‐interlayer(SEI). With the trifluoroacetate‐terminated C5‐POE (C5‐POE‐F) as the electrolyte and Li+‐conducting binder in the cathode, the all‐solid‐state Li/LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2(NMC811) cells showed significantly improved stability than the counterpart with poly‐ether, providing a promising candidate for the forthcoming all‐solid‐state high‐voltage Li‐metal batteries.
Sydnone Methides—A Forgotten Class of Mesoionic Compounds for the Generation of Anionic N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes
Authors: Mummel Sebastian , Lederle Felix , Hübner Eike G. , Namyslo Jan C. , Nieger Martin , Schmidt Andreas
Published: June 2021

Sydnone methides are described from which only one single example has been mentioned in the literature so far. Their deprotonation gave anions which can be formulated as π‐electron rich anionic N‐heterocyclic carbenes. Sulfur and selenium adducts were stabilized as their methyl ethers, and mercury, gold as well as rhodium complexes of the sydnone methide carbenes were prepared. Sydnone methide anions also undergo C−C coupling reactions with 1‐fluoro‐4‐iodobenzene under Pd(PPh3)4 and CuBr catalysis. 77Se NMR resonance frequencies and 1JC4‐Se as well as 1JC4‐H coupling constants have been determined to gain knowledge about the electronic properties of the anionic N‐heterocyclic carbenes. The carbene carbon atom of the sydnone methide anion 3 j resonates at δ=155.2 ppm in 13C NMR spectroscopy at −40 °C which is extremely shifted upfield in comparison to classical N‐heterocyclic carbenes.
Carbon–nitrogen bond formation using modified graphene oxide derivatives decorated with copper complexes and nanoparticles
Authors: Mirza‐Aghayan Maryam , Saeedi Mandana , Boukherroub Rabah
Published: June 2021

Several catalytic reactions such as Ullmann, Chan–Lam, Huisgen 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition, [2 + 3] cycloaddition, condensation, and coupling reactions under suitable conditions have been used for the synthesis of fundamental structures containing a carbon–nitrogen (C–N) bond. Graphene oxide (GO) and its derivatives as heterogeneous catalysts have attracted considerable attention for the synthesis of organic building blocks. Loading of GO derivatives with copper complexes or nanoparticles, as one of the most abundant and low toxic transition metals, allowed to design new composites with predominant ability to C–N bond formation. In this review article, we present a comprehensive overview on the synthesis of building blocks containing a C–N bond such as amines, triazoles, tetrazoles, propargyl amines, imidazoles, and benzodiazepines using GO derivatives loaded with copper complexes or nanoparticles.
Phyllobilins as a challenging diverse natural product class: Exploration of pharmacological activities
Authors: Wang Pengyu , Karg Cornelia A. , Frey Nadine , Frädrich Julian , Vollmar Angelika M. , Moser Simone
Published: June 2021

Phyllobilins are a group of chlorophyll‐derived bilin‐type linear tetrapyrroles, generated in the process of chlorophyll breakdown. Since the first phyllobilin was isolated and characterized in 1991, more and more structures of these chlorophyll catabolites were identified alongside the biochemical players involved in chlorophyll breakdown. In the meantime, phyllobilins are known to occur in a large natural structural variety, and new modifications are still being discovered. Phyllobilins have been regarded as products of chlorophyll detoxification for a very long time, hence they have been completely overlooked as a natural product class in terms of their biological role or pharmacological activity. A change of this paradigm, however, is long overdue. Here, we review the current knowledge of the pharmacological activities of phyllobilins and give an overview of the diverse structural modifications, laying the groundwork for analyzing their role(s) as active components in medicinal plants.
Green synthesis of glyco‐phenol by enzymatic coupling between ferulic acid and glucosamine: An ecofriendly procedure
Authors: Aljawish Abdulhadi , Chevalot Isabelle , Paris Cedric , Muniglia Lionel
Published: June 2021

A new glyco‐phenol was produced by the coupling between glucosamine (Glu) and ferulic acid (FA) using Myceliophthora thermophila laccase as biocatalyst in mild conditions (distilled water and 30°C) as an environmentally friendly process. Results indicated that the enzymatic reaction created a new derivative (FA–Glu), produced from coupling between Glu and FA by covalent bonds. By the high production of (FA–Glu) derivative and its stability, the optimal ratio of (FA:Glu) was of (1:1) at optimal time reaction of 6 h. Under these optimal conditions, almost 55% of ‐NH2 groups on Glu were bound with FA oxidation products. The new derivative showed higher hydrophobic character than Glu due to the presence of FA in its structure. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis showed that (FA–Glu) derivative exhibited a molecular mass at MM 713 g/mol containing one Glu molecule and three FA molecules after decarboxylation. Furthermore, the new derivative presented good antioxidant and antiproliferative activities in comparison with Glu and FA. These results suggest that the enzymatic conjugation between Glu and FA is a promising process to produce a new glyco‐phenol having good functional properties for potential applications.
Outcomes of mechanical circulatory support for acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock
Authors: Kim Yeunjung , Shapero Kayle , Ahn Shawn S. , Goldsweig Andrew M. , Desai Nihar , Altin S. Elissa
Published: June 2021

Background

Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) with the Impella device (Abiomed, Danvers, MA) has been associated with higher in‐hospital mortality than intra‐aortic balloon pump (IABP) in the Premier Healthcare Database and National Cardiovascular Data Registry.

Methods

The objective of this retrospective cohort study was to describe trends and outcomes of Impella usage in acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock (AMICS) treated with MCS (Impella or IABP) using real‐world observational data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) including hospitalizations for AMICS managed with MCS between January 2012 to December 2017. The primary outcomes included in‐hospital mortality, transfusion, acute kidney injury, stroke, total costs, and length of stay. Propensity score matching was performed with hierarchical models using risk factor and Elixhauser comorbidity variables.

Results and Conclusion

We identified 54,480 hospitalizations for AMICS managed with MCS including 5750 (10.5%) utilizing Impella. Throughout the study period, Impella usage increased yearly to 19.9% of AMICS cases in 2017. After propensity score matching, Impella was associated with higher in‐hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR] 1.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.41–2.13) and transfusions (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.40–2.78) than IABP, without association with acute kidney injury or stroke. Impella use was associated with higher hospital costs (mean difference $22,416.80 [95% CI $17,029‐27,804]). Impella usage for AMICS increased significantly from 2012 to 2017 and was associated with increased in‐hospital mortality and costs. Randomized controlled trials are urgently needed to assess the safety and efficacy of Impella.
Pleural empyema associated with alveolar‐pleural fistulas in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2
Authors: Divisi Duilio , Zaccagna Gino , Angeletti Chiara , Cicerone Elena , De Vico Andrea , Moretti Riccardo , Imbriglio Giovanna , Carbuglia Nadia , Quaglione Gina Rosaria , Chiatamone Ranieri Sofia , Crisci Roberto
Published: June 2021

Surgery in COVID‐19 disease complicated by APF represents the last life‐saving treatment option. The choice of the therapeutic period to indicate this approach is fundamental. In fact, the clinical stability of patient is necessary in order to allow single‐lung ventilation and to minimize postoperative sequelae.
Grafting of Alkali Metals on Fumed Silica for the Catalytic Dehydrogenation of Methanol to Formaldehyde
Authors: Baranowski Christophe J. , Brandon Jack , Bahmanpour Ali M. , Kröcher Oliver
Published: June 2021

Water free, non‐oxidative catalytic dehydrogenation of methanol to formaldehyde is an important process for the formation of anhydrous, molecular formaldehyde (FA). Sodium or sodium‐containing salts were shown to catalyze the reaction, but their reaction mechanism remains unclear. In this work, we thus investigated the performance of a series of catalysts prepared by grafting of alkali metals on amorphous silica for methanol catalytic dehydrogenation. The resulting catalysts displayed an increased activity for the catalytic dehydrogenation of methanol. Variation of the electron density of the supported alkali metal cations severely affected the FA selectivity, which followed the trend: Li>Na>K>Rb>Cs. A large gap in selectivity towards FA between ions with a high (i. e., Li, Na) and low charge density (i. e., K, Rb, Cs) was observed. Also, increased metal loading adversely affected FA selectivity and resulted in a larger production of carbon monoxide. Sodium grafted on silica yielded the best combination of moderate conversion and high selectivity.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis and Energy Applications of 2D MXenes
Authors: Zhang Cunliang , Wang Xin , Wei Wei , Hu Xincheng , Wu Yulin , Lv Nan , Dong Shengyang , Shen Laifa
Published: June 2021

MXenes as a new category of 2D materials have caused a particularly large impact in numerous fields of scientific research and technical applications in recent years. Their open 2D structure and excellent electronic conductivity provide many electrochemically active sites and rapid electron‐transfer paths for reversible Faradic reaction and then render them promising electrode materials for electrochemical energy storage. They offer outstanding volumetric capacitance in supercapacitors and excellent rate capability in rechargeable batteries. Numerous efforts have been made in the past several years. However, research on MXenes has just begun. This review aims to offer useful guidance for the synthesis of high‐quality MXene materials and promote their practical energy applications in supercapacitors, lithium‐ion batteries, and beyond lithium‐ion batteries. A brief discussion of the challenges and opportunities for future research on MXenes is finally presented.
Interaction of Redox Probes and Ferrocene‐labelled Peptides with Lipid Bilayers Observed at Lipid Bilayer‐Modified Electrodes
Authors: Segan Dejan , Stanley George , Messina Pierluca , Swiecicki Jean‐Marie , Ngo Kieu , Vivier Vincent , Buriez Olivier , Labbé Eric
Published: June 2021

Glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) modified by a bilayer of phospholipids (BLM) have been used to monitor the passage of redox probes and ferrocene‐labelled peptides across lipid membranes of an anionic (DOPG) or a zwitterionic (globally neutral DPhPC) phospholipid. The gel‐phase neutral DPhPC showed a strong association with neutral probes like ferrocene methanol but expelled positively or negatively charged species, as observed on cyclic voltammograms. Anionic DOPG underwent a strong electrostatic interaction with the positively charged hexaamine ruthenium(III) complex, leading to aggregates that caused swelling and destructuration of the BLM. With positively charged ferrocene‐tagged peptides, DOPG‐modified GCE allowed the observation of cyclic voltammograms exhibiting both a potential shift with respect to bare GCE and increased peak intensity, accounting for the slow but favored partition of the peptides between the BLM and the solution.
Construction of Highly Efficient Photocatalyst with Core‐Shell Au@Ag/C@SiO2 Hybrid Structure towards Visible‐Light‐Driven Photocatalytic Reduction
Authors: An Huiqin , Xiao Shunyuan , Zhao Xiaohui , Cao Lifang , Liu Ting , Li Mengzhu , Wang Bing , Yin Zhen
Published: June 2021

Main observation and conclusion

Herein, we report a rational construction of Au@Ag/C@SiO2 system with Au@Ag core‐shell nanoparticles (NPs) as a promising photocatalyst based on the plasmonic coupling effect for the first time towards the photoreduction of nitroaromatic compounds under visible light. The combination and elaborate construction of Au@Ag NPs, carbon microspheres and mesoporous SiO2 shell can endow this system with several outstanding features towards photocatalytic reaction. Firstly, the broadband light harvesting across ultraviolet‐visible‐near infrared (UV‐vis‐NIR) region can be achieved due to the comprehensive effect of surface plasmonic resonance (SPR) coupling model of Au and Ag, near‐field scattering light of carbon microspheres and light reflecting effect of SiO2 shell, resulting in the production of more electrons for phororeduction reaction. Secondly, the carbon microspheres in Au@Ag/C@SiO2 system possess electron‐rich property due to their strong electron‐withdrawing ability, which can act as the Lewis acid and Lewis basic site, and promote the stepwise hydrogenation of nitrobenzene. Thirdly, Au@Ag/C@SiO2 exhibits excellent reusability because of the protection of SiO2 shell, which restricts metal NPs inside the spheres and protects them from aggregation and being lost during reaction process. Our present work demonstrates the significance of construction of hybrid nanostructures based on the plasmonic coupling effect, which can be a promising approach to design efficient photocatalyst towards organic synthesis under visible light.
An Artificial Light‐Harvesting System with Tunable Fluorescence Color in Aqueous Sodium Dodecyl Sulfonate Micellar Systems for Photochemical Catalysis
Authors: Li Xinglong , Wang Ying , Song Ao , Zhang Minghui , Chen Mengning , Jiang Man , Yu Shengsheng , Wang Rongzhou , Xing Lingbao
Published: June 2021

Main observation and conclusion

In the present work, an artificial light‐harvesting system with fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) is successfully fabricated in aqueous sodium dodecyl sulfonate (SDS) micellar systems. Since the tight and orderly arrangement of dodecyl in the SDS micelles is hydrophobic, tetra‐(4‐pyridylphenyl)ethylene (4PyTPE) can be easily encapsulated into the hydrophobic layer of SDS micelles through noncovalent interaction, which exhibits aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) phenomenon and can be used as energy donor. By using amphoteric sulforhodamine 101 (SR101) fluorescent dye attached to the negatively charged surface of SDS micelles through electrostatic interaction as energy acceptor, the light‐harvesting FRET process can be efficiently simulated. Through the steady‐state emission spectra analysis in the micelle‐mediated energy transfer from 4PyTPE to SR101, the fluorescence emission can be tuned and white light emission with CIE coordinates of (0.31, 0.29) can be successfully achieved by tuning the donor/acceptor ratio. More importantly, to better mimic natural photosynthesis, the SDS micelles with 4PyTPE and SR101 FRET system showed enhanced catalytic activity in photochemical catalysis for dehalogenation of α‐bromoacetophenone in aqueous solution and the photocatalytic reaction could be extended to gram levels.
Validation of BRCA testing on cytologic samples of high‐grade serous carcinoma
Authors: Lou Si Kei , Grenier Sylvie , Care Melanie , McCuaig Jeanna , Stockley Tracy L. , Clarke Blaise , Ruff Heather M. , Boerner Scott L.
Published: June 2021

Background

Testing for BRCA1/2 gene alterations in patients with high‐grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) is a critical determinant of treatment eligibility for poly(adenosine diphosphate‐ribose) polymerase inhibitors in addition to providing vital information for genetic counselling. Many patients present with effusions necessitating therapeutic drainage, and this makes cytologic specimens (CySs) the initial diagnostic material for HGSC, often before histologic sampling. Initiating somatic BRCA testing on a CyS allows the BRCA status to be determined sooner, and this affects clinical management.

Methods

Retrospectively, 8 cases of formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) CySs of peritoneal or pleural fluid from patients with HGSC and known BRCA1/2 alterations previously established by the testing of FFPE surgical specimens (SpSs) underwent next‐generation sequencing (NGS). Prospectively, 11 cases of peritoneal or pleural fluid from patients with HGSC but an unknown BRCA1/2 status underwent NGS with fresh, alcohol‐fixed, and FFPE CySs, and they were compared with subsequent NGS on 4 SpSs.

Results

CySs yielded high‐quantity and high‐quality DNA for NGS analysis when sufficient tumor cellularity was present. Fresh, alcohol‐fixed, and FFPE CySs were all suitable for NGS and provided identical NGS results. SpS and CyS BRCA testing was concordant in 10 of 12 cases. The 2 discordant cases showed low tumor cellularity and quality in the CyS and the SpS, respectively.

Conclusion

Effusion CySs of HGSC are excellent sources for NGS testing for BRCA1/2 genetic alterations when sufficient tumor cellularity is present. Fresh, alcohol‐fixed, and FFPE CySs are equivalent for NGS of BRCA1/2. NGS testing of HGSC CySs demonstrates good concordance with SpSs for the BRCA1/2 status.
The effect of bleaching on the optical and physical properties of externally stained monolithic zirconia
Authors: Tavangar Maryam S. , Mousavipour Elaheh , Ansarifard Elham
Published: June 2021

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the effects of bleaching on the color, translucency, surface roughness, and surface hardness of monolithic zirconia with external stainin .

Methods

In this experimental study, 32 specimens of monolithic zirconia (1 × 1 mm; shade A2) were divided into two groups based on random permuted blocks. Overglaze and staining procedures were performed with a yellow stain or a value stain (GC Stain). Baseline color, translucency, roughness, and surface hardness were measured. The specimens were then randomly bleached with hydrogen peroxide (HP) 40% (20 min, twice with a 1‐week interval in between) as office bleaching or carbamide peroxide (CP) 20% (4 h per day for 14 days) as home bleaching. Finally, the color, translucency, surface roughness, and surface hardness were measured again.

Results

Bleaching with CP and HP caused a perceptible change in the color of the specimens (ΔE > 2), although this change was within the clinically acceptable range (ΔE < 3.3). HP significantly reduced the surface hardness of the specimens (p = 0.043). Changes in surface roughness of the specimens were neither statistically nor clinically significant (p = 0.19 and p = 0.25 for office and home bleaching, respectively).

Conclusion

The effects of home and office bleaching on the surface characteristics of monolithic zirconia were almost the same. It is not necessary to exchange or even to polish the surfaces of zirconia restorations after exposure to bleaching agents. Further studies are recommended to confirm the color stability of externally stained monolithic zirconia.
Assessing the conservation of Miombo timber species through an integrated index of anthropogenic and climatic threats
Authors: Catarino Silvia , Romeiras Maria M. , Pereira José M. C. , Figueira Rui
Published: June 2021

Aim

Angolan Miombo woodlands, rich in timber species of the Leguminosae family, go through one of the highest rates of deforestation in sub‐Saharan Africa. This study presents, on the basis of updated information of the distribution of Leguminosae timber species native to Angola, an integrated index framing the main threats for trees, which aims to support new conservation measures.

Location

Sub‐Saharan Africa, Republic of Angola.

Methods

The current distribution areas of six Leguminosae timber species (i.e., Afzelia quanzensis, Brachystegia spiciformis, Guibourtia coleosperma, Isoberlinia angolensis, Julbernardia paniculata, and Pterocarpus angolensis) were predicted through ensemble modeling techniques. The level of threat to each species was analyzed, comparing the species potential distribution with a threat index map and with the protected areas. The threat index of anthropogenic and climatic factors encompasses the effects of population density, agriculture, proximity to roads, loss of tree cover, overexploitation, trends in wildfires, and predicted changes in temperature and precipitation.

Results

Our results revealed that about 0.5% of Angola's area is classified as of “Very high” threat, 23.9% as “High” threat, and 66.5% as “Moderate” threat. Three of the studied species require special conservation efforts, namely B. spiciformis and I. angolensis, which have a large fraction of predicted distribution in areas of high threat, and G. coleosperma since it has a restricted distribution area and is one of the most valuable species in international markets. The priority areas for the conservation of Leguminosae timber species were found in Benguela and Huíla.

Main conclusions

This study provides updated data that should be applied to inform policymakers, contributing to national conservation planning and protection of native flora in Angola. Moreover, it presents a methodological approach for the predictions of species distribution and for the creation of a threat index map that can be applied in other poorly surveyed tropical regions.
Diurnal vertical movements in black sea bass (Centropristis striata): Endogenous, facultative, or something else?
Authors: Secor D. H. , Bailey H. , Carroll A. , Lyubchich V. , O’Brien M. H. P. , Wiernicki C. J.
Published: June 2021

Fishes commonly exhibit diel rhythms in movements with consequences to feeding, reproduction, predator evasion, and resting. Such behaviors are conceived as plastic, persisting for phases (days to weeks), and then becoming disrupted, masked, and altered by changed environmental or ecological conditions. In telemetered black sea bass Centropristis striata (family Serranidae), we documented a remarkable 4‐month record of persistent diurnal vertical movements. Within the U.S. Mid‐Atlantic Bight June–October 2019 setting, biotelemetry data of 31 fish were examined through time series analysis and generalized additive modeling. Sun altitude played a dominant role throughout the series, where movements were diurnal. Thermal conditions were uniform until a September hurricane caused a 10°C rise in inhabited waters within the span of six hours, the result of water column mixing. This and other storms caused short‐term disruptions (<2 d) to diel rhythmicity. Daytime vessel traffic, but not dolphin presence, caused ≤1 h refuge‐seeking excursions. The discovery of pelagic behaviors (up to 15 m off the seabed) requires revision to the species’ natural history, which was previously conceived as exclusively demersal. Spring‐autumn movement functions included reef recruitment and evacuation, courtship and spawning, and seasonal changes in feeding ecology and predator fields. Throughout these phases, the cycle of daytime movement and nighttime inactivity persisted. We hypothesize that during the nocturnal period these visual specialists become immobile and thus evade predation and mobilize energy toward growth, reproduction, and storage. Because this function does not change from spring through autumn, we speculate that nocturnal quiescence serves as the proximate control for the diurnal activity cycle.
Sacubitril/valsartan improves cardiac function in Chinese patients with heart failure: a real‐world study
Authors: Chen Wenwen , Liu Yanlin , Li Yuanmin , Dang Heqin
Published: June 2021

Aims

Sacubitril/valsartan significantly reduced heart failure (HF) hospitalization and cardiovascular mortality in a randomized controlled trial. However, little is known about real‐world efficacy and safety of sacubitril/valsartan in Chinese patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). We aimed to evaluate whether sacubitril/valsartan could improve cardiac function in Chinese patients with HFrEF in a tertiary hospital in China.

Methods and results

Patients with HFrEF receiving sacubitril/valsartan in our hospital between January 2018 and January 2020 were recruited in the present study. We retrospectively collected and analysed all clinical parameters at baseline and during follow‐up. A total of 100 consecutive patients (73% male) with HFrEF were recruited in the present study. During a median follow‐up period of 365 days [interquartile range (IQR), 346–378], a pronounced improvement of cardiac function was achieved. New York Heart Association classification was significantly improved (P < 0.001), and median N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptides level significantly decreased from 3003 pg/mL (IQR, 1513–5404) to 2039 pg/mL (IQR, 921–3955) (P = 0.010). Mean left ventricular ejection fraction increased from 31 ± 6% to 38 ± 10% (P < 0.001) and median left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter reduced from 63 mm (IQR, 59–67) to 60 mm (IQR, 55–68) (P = 0.001). Mean pulmonary arterial systolic pressure decreased significantly from 49 ± 13 mmHg to 44 ± 12 mmHg (P < 0.001) and median right ventricular end‐diastolic diameter reduced from 23 mm (IQR, 21–26) to 22 mm (IQR, 20–25) (P = 0.030). After treatment with sacubitril/valsartan, mean estimated glomerular filtration rate significantly decreased (from 88.8 ± 22.4 mL/min to 71.8 ± 27.3 mL/min, P < 0.001). Median serum creatinine and median blood urea nitrogen levels significantly increased [from 0.9 mg/dL (IQR, 0.8–1.0) to 1.1 mg/dL (IQR, 0.9–1.3), P < 0.001, and from 6.8 mmol/L (IQR, 5.5–8.9) to 8.0 mmol/L (IQR, 6.6–10.3), P = 0.002, respectively]. The proportion of patients with chronic kidney disease Stage 3/4 increased significantly from 8% to 39% (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

In Chinese patients with HFrEF, sacubitril/valsartan treatment was associated with a pronounced improvement of cardiac function, but might be prone to a decrease in blood pressure and deterioration in renal function.
Persistent moderate to severe pain and long‐term cognitive decline
Authors: Rong Wei , Zhang Cheng , Zheng Fanfan , Xiao Songhua , Yang Zhenchun , Xie Wuxiang
Published: June 2021

Background

The longitudinal association between persistent moderate to severe pain and subsequent long‐term cognitive decline remains inconclusive.

Methods

Study population came from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, an ongoing prospective and nationally representative cohort of community‐dwelling adults aged ≥50 years in England. At waves 1 (2002/2003) and 2 (2004/2005) of the study, pain severity was measured based on pain intensity scores ranged from 0 to 10. We defined moderate to severe pain as pain intensity scores ≥5 points. Persistent moderate to severe pain was defined as participants reported moderate to severe pain at both waves 1 and 2. Standardized global cognitive Z scores derived from verbal memory, temporal orientation and semantic fluency were used as the primary outcome.

Results

A total of 6,869 individuals (3,896 women; mean age: 63.9 ± 9.5 years) who have accepted twice measurements of pain at waves 1 and 2 (baseline), and at least one reassessment of cognitive function at waves 3 (2006/2007) to 8 (2016/2017), were included in this study. Each 5‐point increase in the sum of pain intensity scores was associated with a faster rate of –0.009 (95% CI: –0.013 to –0.006, p < .001) in global cognitive Z scores. Compared with no pain group, persistent moderate to severe pain group was associated with a significantly faster decline rate of –0.031 SD/year (95% CI: –0.043 to –0.018), in global cognitive Z scores. The relationships of persistent moderate to severe pain with verbal memory, temporal orientation and semantic fluency were similar.

Conclusion

Cognitive function should be monitored in individuals with persistent moderate to severe pain.

Significance

Persistent moderate to severe pain in adults age 50 and older was associated with accelerated cognitive decline over a median follow‐up of 12 years. More severe pain was associated with faster cognitive decline in a dose‐response pattern, and the relationship was demonstrated throughout multiple cognitive domains. While the overall effect was subtle, clinicians should be aware that older adults with persistent pain are at risk of faster cognitive decline.
Nanostructured MoS2‐, SnS2‐, and WS2‐Based Anode Materials for High‐Performance Sodium‐Ion Batteries via Chemical Methods: A Review Article
Authors: Keshari Ashish K. , Kumar Ravindra
Published: June 2021

In the current age, electric‐driven products based on large‐scale stationary energy‐storage devices, sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are good promising candidates due to their comparable low cost, environment friendliness, high efficiency, and relatable huge abundance. An anode plays a vital role in the high performance of rechargeable batteries, so it becomes necessary to focus on the research on high‐performance anode materials. Recently, a number of researchers developed advanced host materials for SIBs to boost their energy density, cycle efficiency, and safety measures. In recent years, nanostructured metal sulfides like MoS2, SnS2, and WS2 with their novel structure‐based anode materials are the focus of the key research in sodium‐storage applications because of their comparable high conductivity, high capacity, good cycle life, and unmatched chemical and physical properties. In addition, these metal sulfides exhibit high mechanical, thermal, and structural stability, which supports them to find their place as an anode material for high‐performance SIBs in large‐scale energy storage production. Herein, the selected metal sulfide‐based nanostructures synthesized by chemical routes are extensively reviewed and their electrochemical properties for application as a high‐performance anode material in the SIBs are explored.
Thin, soft, garment‐integrated triboelectric nanogenerators for energy harvesting and human machine interfaces
Authors: Liu Yiming , Yiu Chunki , Jia Huiling , Wong Tszhung , Yao Kuanming , Huang Ya , Zhou Jingkun , Huang Xingcan , Zhao Ling , Li Dengfeng , Wu Mengge , Gao Zhan , He Jiahui , Song Enming , Yu Xinge
Published: June 2021

The applications of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) in wearable electronics for energy harvesting and motion sensing have raised extensive attentions, since TENGs enable to convert body motions induced mechanical energy into electrical signals. The development of thin, soft, and garment‐integrated TENGs would be an important solution for the power management in wearable electronics as well as self‐powered sensors. Here, we report materials, device designs, processing routes for garment‐integrated TENGs (G‐TENGs) and demonstrations of the G‐TENGs in wearable energy harvesting and human‐machine interfaces. The G‐TENGs adopt a simple layout with two soft silicone layers and one graphene‐coated fabric layer, exhibiting great flexibility, air‐permeability, and robust durability. Furthermore, the G‐TENGs present outstanding electrical characteristics with open‐circuit voltage and short‐current outputs as great as 213.75 V and 3.11 μA, under a constant frequency and stress of 3 Hz and 5.6 kPa, respectively. The excellent mechanical properties of the G‐TENGs allow them tolerating toward over 1000 cycles of bending, stretching and twisting, and maintaining unchanged electrical outputs after these deformations. The stable electrical outputs and the excellent mechanical performance of the G‐TENGs provide a high potential in self‐powered sensors, energy harvesting, human‐machine interfaces and many others.

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