bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced Copper Piping Corrosion in Sprinkler Facilities
Authors: Mun Chul-Hwan , Choi Yu-Jung , Choi Jae-Wook
Published: May 2021

Copper pipes used in fire sprinkler systems are somewhat superior to steel pipes in terms of corrosion resistance. They have been widely used in apartments since 2010, but their firefighting performance has not been firmly established due to leakage caused by pitting. In order to solve this problem, copper pipes need to be replaced by pipes made of other materials such as STS or C-PVC, which, however, would impose an economic burden on the party responsible for maintenance, as well as economic loss to other relevant parties and inconvenience to residents. Although 27 leakages occurred in the E region in 2018, it was found that the number of incidents was reduced to just one case after an application of corrosion inhibitor. Therefore, for 2 months beginning in October 2020, a second project to reduce piping corrosion was conducted with 2,000 households in five regions nationwide. During this period, the standing fire water of five apartment buildings in the A region was measured as having a pH 8.34–9.08, an ORP -94.9–-135.8 mV, and an EC 0.097–0.137 ms/cm, which indicated a need for improvement. Subsequently, a corrosion inhibitor was poured into the fire water, resulting in improved values of pH 11.13–11.26, ORP -257–-265.5 mV, and EC 4.189–5.769 ms/cm, which demonstrated the effect of preventing pipe corrosion. It was evident that water-soluble silicate was adsorbed on the metal pipe of the anode to form a thin monolayer, which induced basicity by increasing the pH and by decreasing the ORP, which eventually minimized corrosion.
Flame Detection Based on Deep Learning Using HSV Color Model and Corner Detection Algorithm
Authors: Ryu Jin-Kyu , Kwak Dong-Kurl
Published: May 2021

Recently, many image classification or object detection models that use deep learning techniques have been studied; however, in an actual performance evaluation, flame detection using these models may achieve low accuracy. Therefore, the flame detection method proposed in this study is image pre-processing with HSV color model conversion and the Harris corner detection algorithm. The application of the Harris corner detection method, which filters the output from the HSV color model, allows the corners to be detected around the flame owing to the rough texture characteristics of the flame image. These characteristics allow for the detection of a region of interest where multiple corners occur, and finally classify the flame status using deep learning-based convolutional neural network models. The flame detection of the proposed model in this study showed an accuracy of 97.5% and a precision of 97%.
Awareness of Temporary Field Emergency Medical Centers Operated by Paramedics on a First-Come-First-Served Basis in a Mass Casualty Disaster
Authors: Park Dong-Geun , Kim Younghwa
Published: May 2021

This study was conducted to identify the need for the operation of temporary field emergency medical centers (TFEMC) by paramedics on a first-come-first-served basis at disaster sites where mass casualties occurred. The survey was conducted on 119 emergency doctors and paramedics from five fire departments under the Ulsan City Fire Department. More than 77.9% of the paramedics surveyed had been dispatched for the handling of many casualties at least once, but only 31.5% of them had experienced the establishment and operation of TFEMC. Awareness of triage showed a significant difference according to work career (F = 3.455, p = .009) and assigned work (F = 3.955, p = .004). Awareness of the disaster medical response system was significantly different according to rank (F = 5.299, p = .002), work career (F = 5.575, p = .000), age (F = 3.420, p = .018), and assigned work (F = 3.114, p = .016). There was no statistically significant difference in the awareness regarding TFEMCs. Most of the paramedics answered that they had not received mass casualty-focused education and that they needed related professional education. Therefore, for the efficient operation of TFEMCs managed by paramedics on a first-come-first-served basis, it is necessary to develop and implement various related professional training courses that combine theoretical training and field practice regarding the operation of TFEMCs, thus providing many paramedics an opportunity for education.
Efficiency in Parallel Computing of FDS Model for Compartment Fire Simulation: Shared Memory System
Authors: Min Su-Gyeong , Kim Sung-Chan
Published: May 2021

This study evaluates the computational efficiency based on the parallel processing mode and domain decomposition method of the FDS model to enhance the computational performance of fire simulation. A single compartment of dimensions 12.0 m × 3.8 m × 3.0 m is considered along with a rectangular fire source (0.4 m × 0.4 m) fueled by n-Heptane. The computational domain was divided into 136,000 cells forming a grid size of 0.1 m, and the computational efficiency for each calculation was evaluated by the wall clock time for a simulation time of 300 s using a computational framework with 24 cores of a single CPU and a 256 GB shared memory system. The MPI and hybrid mode in FDS parallel offers a greater speed-up capability than the OpenMP mode, and the domain decomposition method used greatly affects the computational efficiency. The maximum speed-up with the OpenMP mode was less than 1.5 for a single computational domain, which indicates that there is an optimal condition for thread assignment and domain decomposition in the OpenMP mode. The present study is expected to contribute toward obtaining effective fire simulation results with limited computing power and time in fire protection engineering.
A Study on the Travel Distance and Exit Width for Securing Efficient Evacuation
Authors: Im Seung-Hyuk , Choi Seung-Bok , Choi Don-Muk
Published: May 2021

With increasing industrialization, large-scale, complex, and high-rise buildings are under way; therefore, Korea's building and fire-fighting laws need to be modified to ensure the use of active measures backed by performance-based design. However, the current standard of domestic performance-based design is weaker than that of overseas standards for fire scenarios and other specific conditions. In this study, the domestic and foreign standards and simulations were reviewed to determine the criteria for walking distance and entrance width and a reasonable and safe evacuation time in the event of an evacuation situation.
Perception, Education, and Training of the Chemical Terror Response of Firefighters
Authors: Kim Si-Kuk , Nam Yeong-Jae , Hong Sung-Chul
Published: May 2021

This study identifies the characteristics and influencing factors among survey respondents in response to domestic chemical terrorism by targeting firefighters sent to the front line of chemical accidents and chemical terrorism sites. It was carried out to present more efficient improvement measures for chemical terrorism. Regarding “Education and Training on Chemical Terrorism,” there were 3.01 points for “Education’s Information Transferability,” 2.65 points for “Satisfaction with Training Facilities,” 3.11 points for “Training (Theoretical) Effectiveness,” and 3.16 points for “Training (Practice) Effectiveness.” In total, 42.9% of the negative responses were regarding the satisfaction level of training facilities, demonstrating that domestic training facilities were the biggest problem in establishing current countermeasures. Rather than the training curriculum, it was judged that the training facilities were insufficient or absent, and it is necessary to secure and improve these facilities. Based on the survey results, training methods for team-level tactics and joint tactics between departments, hazard and risk assessment training for accident site commanders, and education on effective equipment utilization should be intensively conducted to secure safety and improve the response capabilities of field staff.
Analysis of Construction Cost and Installation Ratio through Comparison of Fire-fighting Facility Design and Completion Documents for mid- and low-rise Buildings
Authors: Eom Jin-Hyeong , Lee Yoon-Ha , Choi Jun-Ho
Published: May 2021

The initial fire-fighting facility design plan may need to be changed during the construction of fire-fighting facilities because of alterations in the architectural design or the flexibility of the site situation. The difference between the 'design drawings at the stage of consenting for building approval' (Original design drawings) and the 'design drawings at the stage of consenting for use approval' (Completion drawings) ultimately leads to changes in the construction cost and in the performance of the fire-fighting facility. Therefore, to secure the fire safety of buildings and prevent human casualties, relevant case analyses and consequent institutional and systematic supplementation are necessary. In this study, six recently completed buildings were selected as target sites, the application rate of each fire-fighting facility in the initial design was analysed, and the need for institutional supplementation was suggested. As a result, owing to the design change, the construction cost and net construction cost could be reduced by up to 19% compared to those based on the original design. In particular, In particular, the sprinkler facility was found to match only 78.7% of the original design drawing in the completion drawing, showing the largest rate of design change among fire-fighting facilities.
The SLIM1 transcription factor is required for arsenic resistance in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Jobe Timothy O. , Yu Qi , Hauser Felix , Xie Qingqing , Meng Yuan , Maassen Tim , Kopriva Stanislav , Schroeder Julian I.
Published: May 2021

The transcriptional regulators of arsenic‐induced gene expression remain largely unknown. Sulfur assimilation is tightly linked with arsenic detoxification. Here, we report that mutant alleles in the SLIM1 transcription factor are substantially more sensitive to arsenic than cadmium. Arsenic treatment caused high levels of oxidative stress in the slim1 mutants, and slim1 alleles were impaired in both thiol accumulation and sulfate accumulation. We further found enhanced arsenic accumulation in roots of slim1 mutants. Transcriptome analyses indicate an important role for SLIM1 in arsenic‐induced tolerance mechanisms. The present study identifies the SLIM1 transcription factor as an essential component in arsenic tolerance and arsenic‐induced gene expression. Our results suggest that the severe arsenic sensitivity of the slim1 mutants is caused by altered redox status.
Serum levels of the IgA isotype switch factor TGF‐β1 are elevated in patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Wang Er‐yi , Chen Hao , Sun Bao‐qing , Wang Hui , Qu Hui‐Qi , Liu Yichuan , Sun Xi‐zhuo , Qu Jingchun , Fang Zhang‐fu , Tian Lifeng , Zeng Yi‐feng , Huang Shau‐Ku , Hakonarson Hakon , Liu Zhi‐gang
Published: May 2021

We previously observed enhanced immunoglobulin A (IgA) responses in severe COVID‐19, which might confer damaging effects. Given the important role of IgA in immune and inflammatory responses, the aim of this study was to investigate the dynamic response of the IgA isotype switch factor TGF‐β1 in COVID‐19 patients. We observed, in a total of 153 COVID‐19 patients, that the serum levels of TGF‐β1 were increased significantly at the early and middle stages of COVID‐19, and correlated with the levels of SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific IgA, as well as with the APACHE II score in patients with severe disease. In view of the genetic association of the TGF‐β1 activator THBS3 with severe COVID‐19 identified by the COVID‐19 Host Genetics Initiative, this study suggests TGF‐β1 may play a key role in COVID‐19.
De novo reconstitution of chromatin using wheat germ cell‐free protein synthesis
Authors: Endo Yaeta , Takemori Nobuaki , Nagy Szilvia K. , Okimune Kei‐ichi , Kamakaka Rohinton , Onouchi Hitoshi , Takasuka Taichi E.
Published: May 2021

DNA is packaged with histones to form chromatin that impinges on all nuclear processes, including transcription, replication and repair, in the eukaryotic nucleus. A complete understanding of these molecular processes requires analysis of chromatin context in vitro. Here, Drosophila four core histones were produced in a native and unmodified form using wheat germ cell‐free protein synthesis. In the assembly reaction, four unpurified core histones and three chromatin assembly factors (dNAP‐1, dAcf1 and dISWI) were incubated with template DNA. We then assessed stoichiometry with the histones, nucleosome arrays, supercoiling and the ability of the chromatin to serve as a substrate for histone‐modifying enzymes. Overall, our method provides a new avenue to produce chromatin that can be useful in a wide range of chromatin research.
Patients may be the most neglected tool in SUD workforce
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: May 2021

In the first national examination of treatment outcomes for patients with substance use disorders (SUDs), Faces & Voices of Recovery worked with the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) and Community Catalyst, a national nonprofit devoted to health care advocacy, to look at what patients want. The findings show that the main interests of patients are.
How to make a recovery‐friendly workplace: The Unity story
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: May 2021

Robert Ashford, Ph.D., came up with the idea of “recovery‐friendly workplaces” because, as he explains, “we know that people in recovery occupy every sector.” His nonprofit, Unity Recovery, has two grants from the state of Pennsylvania — the first for $200,000, renewed for $450,000, and an application now for another $400,000, to certify recovery‐friendly workplaces. “We do a needs assessment, and develop a plan for them,” he told ADAW last week. So far, Unity Recovery has certified 30 employers in Pennsylvania.
Sodium Effects on the Diffusion, Phase, and Defect Characteristics of Kesterite Solar Cells and Flexible Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 with Greater than 11% Efficiency
Authors: Yang Kee‐Jeong , Kim Sammi , Kim Se‐Yun , Son Dae‐Ho , Lee Jaebaek , Kim Young‐Ill , Sung Shi‐Joon , Kim Dae‐Hwan , Enkhbat Temujin , Kim JunHo , Kim Juran , Jo William , Kang Jin‐Kyu
Published: May 2021

Improving the efficiency of kesterite (Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4; CZTSSe) solar cells requires understanding the effects of Na doping. This paper investigates these effects by applying a NaF layer at various positions within precursors. The NaF position is important because Na produces Na‐related defects in the absorber and suppresses the formation of intrinsic defects. By investigating precursors with various NaF positions, the sulfo‐selenization mechanism and the characteristics of defect formation are confirmed. Applying a NaF layer onto a Zn layer in a CZTSSe precursor limits Zn diffusion and suppresses Cu‐Zn alloy formation, thus changing the sulfo‐selenization mechanism. In addition, the surface NaF layer provides reactive Se and S to the absorber layer by generating Na2Sex and Na2Sx liquid phases during sulfo‐selenization, thus limiting the incorporation of Na into the absorber and reducing the Na effects. Efficiency values of 11.16% and 11.19% are obtained for a flexible CZTSSe solar cell by applying NaF between the Zn layer and back contact and between the Cu and Sn layers, respectively. This study presents methods for doping with alkali metals and improving the efficiency of photovoltaics.
Direct Organometallic Synthesis of Carboxylate Intercalated Layered Zinc Hydroxides for Fully Exfoliated Functional Nanosheets
Authors: Said Said A. , Roberts Christopher S. , Lee Ja Kyung , Shaffer Milo S. P. , Williams Charlotte K.
Published: May 2021

Intercalation of organic anions into 2D materials can enable exfoliation, improve dispersion stability, increase surface area, and provide useful functional groups. In layered metal hydroxides, intercalation of bulk structures is commonly achieved by cumbersome and typically incomplete anion exchange reactions. In contrast, here, a series of carboxylate‐intercalated layered zinc hydroxides (LZH‐R) are synthesized directly, at room temperature, by reacting an organozinc reagent with a precise sub‐stoichiometric quantity of the desired carboxylic acid and water. A range of carboxylic acids are used to make new LZH‐R materials which are crystalline, soluble, and functionalized, as established by X‐ray diffraction, spectroscopic, and microscopy techniques. When R is an alkyl ether carboxylate, this direct synthesis method results in the spontaneous exfoliation of the LZH‐R into monolayer nanosheets with high yields (70–80%) and high solubilities in alcohols and water of up to 180 mg mL−1. By altering the carboxylate ligand, functional groups suitable for post‐synthetic modification or for detection by fluorescence are also introduced. These examples demonstrate a versatile synthetic route for functional exfoliated nanosheets.
TRAIL‐Armed ER Nanosomes Induce Drastically Enhanced Apoptosis in Resistant Tumor in Combination with the Antagonist of IAPs (AZD5582)
Authors: Hou Huan , Su Kui , Huang Chaohong , Yuan Qian , Li Shuyi , Sun Jianwu , Lin Yue , Du Zhiyun , Ke Changhong , Yuan Zhengqiang
Published: May 2021

Although mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be engineered to deliver the TNF‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) as an effective anticancer therapy, the clinical application is hampered by the costly manufacturing of therapeutic MSCs. Therefore, it is needed to find an alternative cell‐free therapy. In this study, TRAIL‐armed endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐derived nanosomes (ERN‐T) are successfully prepared with an average size of 70.6 nm in diameter from TRAIL transduced MSCs. It is demonstrated that the ERN‐T is significantly more efficient for cancer cell killing than the soluble recombinant TRAIL (rTRAIL). AZD5582 is an antagonist of the inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), and its combination with ERN‐T induces strikingly enhanced apoptosis in cancerous but not normal cells. AZD5582 sensitizes resistant cancer cells to TRAIL through concomitant downregulation of IAP members like XIAP and the Bcl2 family member Mcl‐1. Intravenously infused ERN‐Ts accumulate in tumors for over 48 h indicating good tumor tropism and retention. The combination of ERN‐T and AZD5582 drastically promotes therapeutic efficacy comparing with the cotreatment by rTRAIL and AZD5582 in a subcutaneous MDA‐MB‐231 xenograft tumor model. The data thus demonstrate that ERN‐T can be a novel cell‐free alternative to TRAIL‐expressing MSC‐based anticancer therapy and its efficacy can be drastically enhanced through combination with AZD5582.
3D Printing of Strontium Silicate Microcylinder‐Containing Multicellular Biomaterial Inks for Vascularized Skin Regeneration
Authors: Ma Jingge , Qin Chen , Wu Jinfu , Zhang Hongjian , Zhuang Hui , Zhang Meng , Zhang Zhaowenbin , Ma Lingling , Wang Xin , Ma Bing , Chang Jiang , Wu Chengtie
Published: May 2021

The reconstruction of dermal blood vessels is essential for skin regeneration process. However, the lack of vascular structure, insufficient angiogenesis induction, and ineffective graft‐host anastomosis of the existing skin substitutes are major bottle‐necks for permanent skin replacement in tissue engineering. In this study, the uniform strontium silicate (SS) microcylinders are successfully synthesized and integrated into the biomaterial ink to serve as stable cell‐induced factors for angiogenesis, and then a functional skin substitute based on a vascularization‐induced biomimetic multicellular system is prepared via a “cell‐writing” bioprinting technology. With an unprecedented combination of vascularized skin‐mimicking structure and vascularization‐induced function, the SS‐containing multicellular system exhibits outstanding angiogenic activity both in vitro and in vivo. As a result, the bioprinted skin substitutes significantly accelerate the healing of both acute and chronic wounds by promoting the graft‐host integration and vascularized skin regeneration in three animal models. Therefore, the study provides a referable strategy to fabricate biomimetic multicellular constructs with angiogenesis‐induced function for regeneration of vascularized complex and hierarchical tissues.
Silk Fibroin Scaffold Architecture Regulates Inflammatory Responses and Engraftment of Bone Marrow‐Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Yang Nianji , Moore Matthew J. , Michael Praveesuda L. , Santos Miguel , Lam Yuen Ting , Bao Shisan , Ng Martin K. C. , Rnjak‐Kovacina Jelena , Tan Richard P. , Wise Steven G.
Published: May 2021

Despite being one of the most clinically trialed cell therapies, bone marrow‐mononuclear cell (BM‐MNC) infusion has largely failed to fulfill its clinical promise. Implanting biomimetic scaffolds at sites of injury prior to BM‐MNC infusion is a promising approach to enhance BM‐MNC engraftment and therapeutic function. Here, it is demonstrated that scaffold architecture can be leveraged to regulate the immune responses that drive BM‐MNC engraftment. Silk scaffolds with thin fibers and low porosity (LP) impairs immune activation in vitro compared with thicker fiber, high porosity (HP) scaffolds. Using the authors′ established in vivo bioluminescent BM‐MNC tracking model, they showed that BM‐MNCs home to and engraft in greater numbers in HP scaffolds over 14 days. Histological analysis reveals thicker fibrous capsule formation, with enhanced collagen deposition in HP compared to LP scaffolds consistent with substantially more native CD68+ macrophages and CD4+ T cells, driven by their elevated pro‐inflammatory M1 and Th1 phenotypes, respectively. These results suggest that implant architecture impacts local inflammation that drives differential engraftment and remodeling behavior of infused BM‐MNC. These findings inform the future design of biomimetic scaffolds that may better enhance the clinical effectiveness of BM‐MNC infusion therapy.
Charge‐Gradient Hydrogels Enable Direct Zero Liquid Discharge for Hypersaline Wastewater Management
Authors: Xie Wenke , Duan Jiangjiang , Li Jia , Qi Bei , Liu Rong , Yu Boyang , Wang Hui , Zhuang Xinyan , Xu Ming , Zhou Jun
Published: May 2021

Zero liquid discharge (ZLD), which maximizes water recovery and eliminates environmental impact, is an urgent wastewater management strategy for alleviating freshwater shortage. However, because of the high concentration of salts and broad‐spectrum foulants in wastewater, a huge challenge for ZLD is lack of a robust membrane‐based desalination technology that enables direct wastewater recovery without costly pretreatment processes. Here, a paradigm‐shift membrane distillation (MD) strategy is presented, wherein the traditional hydrophobic porous membrane is replaced with a hydrophilic nonporous charge‐gradient hydrogel (CGH) membrane that possesses hypersaline tolerance, fouling/scaling‐free properties, and negligible vapor transfer resistance inside the membrane, simultaneously. Therefore, the CGH‐based MD with high water flux enables direct desalination of hypersaline wastewater (130 g L‐1) containing broad‐spectrum foulants (500 mg L‐1) during continuous long‐term operation (200 h), and this technology paves a promising way to direct ZLD for wastewater management.
A Safe and Sustainable Lithium‐Ion–Oxygen Battery based on a Low‐Cost Dual‐Carbon Electrodes Architecture
Authors: Yang Huijun , Qiao Yu , Chang Zhi , Deng Han , He Ping , Zhou Haoshen
Published: May 2021

People anticipate high‐energy‐density battery technology with better security, stability, and sustainability. By tuning the advantage of specific capacity, the lithium‐metal anode is replaced with a graphite intercalation compound and a conceptual prototype lithium‐ion–oxygen battery based on a low‐cost dual‐carbon electrodes architecture is proposed. The lithium‐ion involves a (de)intercalation process into the graphite anode and an O2/Li2O2 redox conversion on the carbon‐nanotube cathode. After a thorough examination as to the electrode compatibility with current electrolytes, a nonflammable fluorinated ether electrolyte is proposed to render a highly coordinated solvation sheath and low lithium salt concentration (1 mol). Herein, the compatibility with graphite anode is investigated, which maintains high capacity retention (88.1%) after long‐term lifespan (over 1 year). In view of the ultrahigh reversibility (average Coulombic efficiency over 99.93%) of the graphite anode, a lithium‐ion–oxygen coin cell with high depth‐of‐discharge of 80% and 60% deliver a satisfactory life over 150 and 300 cycles, respectively. Moreover, systematic spectroscopy characterizations demonstrate a reversible and efficient 2e– O2/Li2O2 redox reaction without relying on noble‐metal catalysts. Lastly, in the engineering aspect, a high‐energy‐density pouch cell (302.52 W h kg−1 based on the weight of the entire pouch) with cost‐effective and environmentally friendly carbon‐composed cell components is successfully fabricated.
Programming Metasurface Near‐Fields for Nano‐Optical Sensing
Authors: Buijs Robin D. , Wolterink Tom A.W. , Gerini Giampiero , Verhagen Ewold , Koenderink A. Femius
Published: May 2021

Control of optical fields at the nanoscale holds the promise of fast, efficient imaging methods, but is elusive due to the diffraction limit. This paper investigates how a single metasurface patch in the near field of a sample plane may be used to create a wide variety of intensity patterns by applying different illumination profiles from the far field. Numerical analysis shows that one metasurface patch may be used to generate complete bases of illumination patterns on a grid as fine as λ/16. The limits of control are explored in terms of degrees of freedom on the illumination side and spatial resolution on the sample side. These illumination patterns are expected to enable sub‐wavelength structured illumination microscopies, compressive imaging and sensing. Quantitative analysis of how the engineered fields may be used for detection of small scattering particles demonstrates the potential the approach holds for nanoscale optical sensing.
Transient Electronics as Sustainable Systems: From Fundamentals to Applications
Authors: Jamshidi Reihaneh , Taghavimehr Mehrnoosh , Chen Yuanfen , Hashemi Nicole , Montazami Reza
Published: May 2021

The unique attribute of transient technology is that it promotes the potential for the design and implementation of sustainable systems through their capability to fully or partially disintegrate after a predefined period of stable operation. Transient electronics have a wide range of potential applications as biomedical implants, environmental sensors, and hardware‐secured devices. Controlled disintegration of such systems without the need for harsh solvents is a step toward realizing green and sustainable electronics. In this short review, recent progress in the development of transient electronics is studied. First, an overview of the transient materials, both the substrate and electronic component, is described. Second, the mechanisms under which transiency occurs, including aqueous dissolution and thermal degradation, are reported. Third, manufacturing techniques for the fabrication of transient electronics are reviewed. And last, various transient electronic devices and their applications are discussed.
Fabrication and Characterization of Autonomously Self‐Healable and Stretchable Soft Microfluidics
Authors: Wang Hualong , Vu Susanna , Pignanelli Julia , Abdel Fatah Tamer , Trant John F. , Mahshid Sara , Rondeau‐Gagné Simon , Ahamed Mohammed Jalal
Published: May 2021

In this paper, a novel self‐healable and stretchable microfluidics system for next generation wearable lab‐on‐a‐chip is presented. An imine‐based precursor with various metal sources (Co(II), Fe(II), and Zn(II)) is used for the development of an intrinsically autonomous self‐healing microfluidic device. Microfluidics fabrication is performed on the self‐healing substrate layer using a mold transfer method. The mechanical properties of the resulting layer are evaluated using tensile strain pull testing. Microfluidic characteristics including fluid flow, wettability, leak, and fluorescence compatibility are investigated to understand its performance in classical microfluidic applications. The new microfluidic devices are also characterized using scanning‐electron microscopy to evaluate the mold transfer capability. The self‐healing microfluidics and the corresponding detailed fluidic characterization presented in this paper will open new opportunities for microfluidic lab on a chip development for various applications, especially in wearable electronics.
Efficient Schottky Junction Construction in Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Boosting H2 Production Activity
Authors: Wang Yang , Zhang Wei , Li Dan , Guo Jianping , Yu Yu , Ding Kejian , Duan Wubiao , Li Xiyou , Liu Heyuan , Su Pengkun , Liu Bo , Li Jianfeng
Published: May 2021

Manipulation of the co‐catalyst plays a vital role in charge separation and reactant activation to enhance the activity of metal‐organic framework‐based photocatalysts. However, clarifying and controlling co‐catalyst related charge transfer process and parameters are still challenging. Herein, three parameters are proposed, Vtransfer (the electron transfer rate from MOF to co‐catalyst), Dtransfer (the electron transfer distance from MOF to co‐catalyst), and Vconsume (the electron consume rate from co‐catalyst to the reactant), related to Pt on UiO‐66‐NH2 in a photocatalytic process. These parameters can be controlled by rational manipulation of the co‐catalyst via three steps: i) Compositional design by partial substitution of Pt with Pd to form PtPd alloy, ii) location control by encapsulating the PtPd alloy into UiO‐66‐NH2 crystals, and iii) facet selection by exposing the encapsulated PtPd alloy (100) facets. As revealed by ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy and first‐principles simulations, the new Schottky junction (PtPd (100)@UiO‐66‐NH2) with higher Vtransfer and Vconsume exhibits enhanced electron‐hole separation and H2O activation than the traditional Pt/UiO‐66‐NH2 junction, thereby leading to a significant enhancement in the photoactivity.
Recent Advancements in Regenerative Approaches for Thymus Rejuvenation
Authors: Sharma Himal , Moroni Lorenzo
Published: May 2021

The thymus plays a key role in adaptive immunity by generating a diverse population of T cells that defend the body against pathogens. Various factors from disease and toxic insults contribute to the degeneration of the thymus resulting in a fewer output of T cells. Consequently, the body is prone to a wide host of diseases and infections. In this review, first, the relevance of the thymus is discussed, followed by thymic embryological organogenesis and anatomy as well as the development and functionality of T cells. Attempts to regenerate the thymus include in vitro methods, such as forming thymic organoids aided by biofabrication techniques that are transplantable. Ex vivo methods that have shown promise in enhancing thymic regeneration are also discussed. Current regenerative technologies have not yet matched the complexity and functionality of the thymus. Therefore, emerging techniques that have shown promise and the challenges that lie ahead are explored.
Boron Nitride Nanotube Coatings for Thermal Management of Printed Silver Inks on Temperature Sensitive Substrates
Authors: Wagner Kaitlin , Paquet Chantal , Martinez‐Rubi Yadienka , Genest Marc , Guan Jingwen , Sampson Kathleen L. , Kim Keun Su , Kell Arnold J. , Malenfant Patrick R. L. , Lessard Benoît H.
Published: May 2021

Printed electronics provide inexpensive and light weight electrical components to fuel emerging applications. One major challenge is the high temperature required to sinter conductive metal inks, which leads to thermal degradation of the substrate and subsequently poor performance. A boron nitride nanotube (BNNT) interfacial film is reported for thermal management in rapid processing of a printable silver molecular ink platform using intense pulsed light (IPL) sintering techniques. The inclusion of BNNT thin films of varying surface concentrations deposited between the substrate and the printed features reduces thermal damage to the substrate during sintering while simultaneously improving electrical performance, achieving a sheet resistance value as low as 140 mΩ sq−1. A wide range of sintering energies ranging from 2.0 and 3.2 J cm−2 are investigated along with printed trace widths ranging from 5 mil (0.127 mm) to 20 mil (0.508 mm). Increases in the rate of cooling and in the current carrying capacity are confirmed with the inclusion of the BNNTs. Overall the thin coating of BNNTs presents no drawbacks while significantly improving the electrical properties of IPL sintered conductive traces and thus represents a simple approach that will advance the adoption of IPL for fabricating printed electronic components.
Tubular CoFeP@CN as a Mott–Schottky Catalyst with Multiple Adsorption Sites for Robust Lithium−Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhang Chaoqi , Du Ruifeng , Biendicho Jordi Jacas , Yi Mingjie , Xiao Ke , Yang Dawei , Zhang Ting , Wang Xiang , Arbiol Jordi , Llorca Jordi , Zhou Yingtang , Morante Joan Ramon , Cabot Andreu
Published: May 2021

The shuttle effect and the sluggish reaction kinetics of lithium polysulfide (LiPS) seriously compromise the performance of lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs). To overcome these limitations and enable the fabrication of robust LSBs, here the use of a Mott–Schottky catalyst based on bimetallic phosphide CoFeP nanocrystals supported on carbon nitride tubular nanostructures as sulfur hosts is proposed. Theoretical calculations and experimental data confirm that CoFeP@CN composites are characterized by a suitable electronic structure and charge rearrangement that allows them to act as a Mott–Schottky catalyst to accelerate LiPS conversion. In addition, the tubular geometry of CoFeP@CN composites facilitates the diffusion of Li ions, accommodates volume change during the reaction, and offers abundant lithiophilic/sulfiphilic sites to effectively trap soluble LiPS. Therefore, S@CoFeP@CN electrodes deliver a superior rate performance of 630 mAh g−1 at 5 C, and remarkable cycling stability with 90.44% capacity retention over 700 cycles. Coin cells with high sulfur loading, 4.1 mg cm−2, and pouch cells with 0.1 Ah capacities are further produced to validate their superior cycling stability. In addition, it is demonstrated here that CoFeP@CN hosts greatly alleviate the often overlooked issues of low energy efficiency and serious self‐discharging in LSBs.
Using process data to generate an optimal control policy via apprenticeship and reinforcement learning
Authors: Mowbray Max , Smith Robin , Del Rio‐Chanona Ehecatl A. , Zhang Dongda
Published: May 2021

Reinforcement learning (RL) is a data‐driven approach to synthesizing an optimal control policy. A barrier to wide implementation of RL‐based controllers is its data‐hungry nature during online training and its inability to extract useful information from human operator and historical process operation data. Here, we present a two‐step framework to resolve this challenge. First, we employ apprenticeship learning via inverse RL to analyze historical process data for synchronous identification of a reward function and parameterization of the control policy. This is conducted offline. Second, the parameterization is improved online efficiently under the ongoing process via RL within only a few iterations. Significant advantages of this framework include to allow for the hot‐start of RL algorithms for process optimal control, and robust abstraction of existing controllers and control knowledge from data. The framework is demonstrated on three case studies, showing its potential for chemical process control.
The genotypic and phenotypic spectrum of pycnodysostosis in Saudi Arabia: Novel variants and clinical findings
Authors: Mushiba Aziza M. , FAQEIH EISSA , Saleh Mohammed A. , Ramzan Khushnooda , Imtiaz Faiqa , Al‐Owain Mohammed , Alhashem Amal M. , Alswaid Abdulrahman
Published: May 2021

Pycnodysostosis is characterized by short stature, osteosclerosis, acro‐osteolysis, increased tendency of fractures, and distinctive dysmorphic features. It is a rare autosomal recessive disease caused by biallelic CTSK mutations. The clinical details of 18 patients from Saudi Arabia were reviewed. Short stature, osteopetrosis, acro‐osteolysis, and distinctive facial dysmorphism were documented in all cases. Our results highlight the significant complications associated with this disease. The large anterior fontanelle is one of the cardinal signs of this disease; however, half of our patients had small fontanelles and a quarter had craniosynostosis, which caused optic nerve compression. Sleep apnea was of the major complications in three patients. Bone fracture can be a presenting symptom, and in our patients it mainly occurred after the age of 3 years. Bone marrow suppression was seen in a single patient of our cohort who was misdiagnosed initially with malignant osteopetrosis. In this study, we also describe two novel (c.5G > A [p.Trp2Ter], c.538G > A [p.Gly180Ser]) and two reported (c.244–29 A > G, c.830C > T [p.Ala277Val]) CTSK mutations. Our results indicate that the recurrent intronic variant, c.244–29 A > G is likely to be a founder mutation, as it was found in 78% (14/18 patients) of our cohort belonging to the same tribe.
First direct evidence of conservative foraging ecology of early Gigantopithecus blacki (~2 Ma) in Guangxi, southern China
Authors: Jiang Quyi , Zhao Lingxia , Guo Lin , Hu Yaowu
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Gigantopithecus blacki, the largest hominoid known, is one of the representative Pleistocene mammals in southern China and northern Southeast Asia. Here we investigate the feeding ecology of G. blacki in its core habitat (Guangxi, Southern China) during the early Early Pleistocene, which was the early period in its evolution.

Materials and methods

The stable isotopic (C, O) analysis of tooth enamel of the fauna associated with G. blacki (n = 58), including the largest number of G. blacki teeth (n = 12) to date from the Liucheng Gigantopithecus Cave (~2 Ma), Guangxi, China, is undertaken.

Results

The δ13C values of Liucheng fauna range from −12.9 to −19.0‰ with an average of −16.1 ± 1.3‰ (n = 58) and the δ18O values range from −4.3 to −9.6‰ with an average of −6.9 ± 1.2‰ (n = 58). The δ13C values of G. blacki range from −15.9‰ to −17.0‰ with an average of −16.5 ± 0.4‰ (n = 12), and the δ18O values vary from −5.9‰ to −7.5‰ with an average of −6.6 ± 0.5‰ (n = 12).

Conclusions

The isotopic data show Guangxi was characterized by closed C3 forest and humid climate in the early Early Pleistocene. Niche partitioning is found among G. blacki, Sinomastodon, Ailuropoda and Stegodon, the typical megafauna in South China in the early Early Pleistocene. This could be one of the important factors for them to co‐exist until the Middle Pleistocene. Smallest isotopic variations of G. blacki are found compared with those of contemporary animals, indicating a conservative foraging ecology i.e., limited foraging area and/or narrow dietary flexibility. Furthermore, the more confined foraging ecology of G. blacki is also seen in comparison with fossil and extant large‐bodied primates. However, the unique dietary pattern of G. blacki does not seem to have hindered its survival. The environment in Guangxi during the early Early Pleistocene offered the suitable conditions for G. blacki to become one of the typical species in the faunal assemblages.
Conservative versus invasive management of secondary spontaneous pneumothorax: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Gerhardy Benjamin Carl , Simpson Graham
Published: May 2021

Aim

Hospitalization, often with intervention, is the recommended management algorithm by multiple international respiratory societies for management of a secondary spontaneous pneumothorax (SSP). Over recent years we adopted a conservative approach to SSPs. We undertook a retrospective cohort study of SSP to establish the safety profile of a conservative approach for these previously unstudied patients.

Methods

We reviewed all cases of SSP presenting to our institution from 2012 to 2019 using the 2010 British Thoracic Society definition of an SSP. Age, gender, smoking status, underlying lung disease, pneumothorax size estimate (using the Collins method), nature of intervention, inpatient duration, and any additional complications were recorded. The χ2‐test and Mann–Whitney U‐test were used for comparison of categorical variables and categorical/continuous variables, respectively.

Results

Eighty‐two cases were included in the final analysis. Of them, 64 had an interpleural distance at the hilum of 1cm or greater, meeting British Thoracic Society criteria for a pleural intervention. Of these 64 patients, 25 (39%) were managed conservatively. No patient managed conservatively required a subsequent intervention. When stratified for conservative or invasive management, there was no significant difference in age, gender, smoking status, or presence of underlying lung disease between the groups. There was a significant difference in size of the pneumothorax with conservative management having smaller pneumothoraces (37% versus 54%, P < 0.001) and a shorter inpatient stay (conservative, 7.9 days; intercostal catheter, 9 days; P = 0.004).

Conclusion

We have demonstrated success with conservative management of SSPs where a significant proportion of them met accepted criteria for a pleural intervention.
A Family of Nonribosomal Peptides Modulate Collective Behavior in Pseudovibrio Bacteria Isolated from Marine Sponges**
Authors: Ióca Laura P. , Dai Yitao , Kunakom Sylvia , Diaz‐Espinosa Jennifer , Krunic Aleksej , Crnkovic Camila M. , Orjala Jimmy , Sanchez Laura M. , Ferreira Antonio G. , Berlinck Roberto G. S. , Eustáquio Alessandra S.
Published: May 2021

Although swarming motility and biofilms are opposed collective behaviors, both contribute to bacterial survival and host colonization. Pseudovibrio bacteria have attracted attention because they are part of the microbiome of healthy marine sponges. Two‐thirds of Pseudovibrio genomes contain a member of a nonribosomal peptide synthetase‐polyketide synthase gene cluster family, which is also found sporadically in Pseudomonas pathogens of insects and plants. After developing reverse genetics for Pseudovibrio, we isolated heptapeptides with an ureido linkage and related nonadepsipeptides we termed pseudovibriamides A and B, respectively. A combination of genetics and imaging mass spectrometry experiments showed heptapetides were excreted, promoting motility and reducing biofilm formation. In contrast to lipopeptides widely known to affect motility/biofilms, pseudovibriamides are not surfactants. Our results expand current knowledge on metabolites mediating bacterial collective behavior.
Quantitative and Multiplexed Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging of Intercellular Tensile Forces
Authors: Keshri Puspam , Zhao Bin , Xie Tianfa , Bagheri Yousef , Chambers James , Sun Yubing , You Mingxu
Published: May 2021

Mechanical interactions between cells have been shown to play critical roles in regulating cell signaling and communications. However, the precise measurement of intercellular forces is still quite challenging, especially considering the complex environment at cell–cell junctions. In this study, we report a fluorescence lifetime‐based approach to image and quantify intercellular molecular tensions. Using this method, tensile forces among multiple ligand–receptor pairs can be measured simultaneously. We first validated our approach and developed lifetime measurement‐based DNA tension probes to image E‐cadherin‐mediated tension on epithelial cells. These probes were then further applied to quantify the correlations between E‐cadherin and N‐cadherin tensions during an epithelial–mesenchymal transition process. The modular design of these probes can potentially be used to study the mechanical features of various physiological and pathological processes.
Folded Perylene Diimide Loops as Mechanoresponsive Motifs
Authors: Traeger Hanna , Sagara Yoshimitsu , Kiebala Derek J. , Schrettl Stephen , Weder Christoph
Published: May 2021

A supramolecular mechanophore that can be integrated into polymers and indicates deformation by a fluorescence color change is reported. Two perylene diimides (PDIs) were connected by a short spacer and equipped with peripheral atom transfer polymerization initiators. In the idle state, the motif folds into a loop and its emission is excimer dominated. Poly(methyl acrylate) (PMA) chains were grown from the motif and the mechanophore‐containing polymer was blended with unmodified PMA to afford materials that display a visually discernible fluorescence color change upon deformation, which causes the loops to unfold. The response is instant, and correlates linearly with the applied strain. Experiments with a reference polymer containing only one PDI moiety show that looped mechanophores that display intramolecular excimer formation offer considerable advantages over intermolecular dye aggregates, including a concentration‐independent response, direct signaling of mechanical processes, and a more pronounced optical change.
Das 1,3‐Bis(tricyanoboran)imidazolin‐2‐ylidenat‐Anion – Ein ditopischer dianionischer N‐heterocyclischer Carben‐Ligand
Authors: Zapf Ludwig , Radius Udo , Finze Maik
Published: May 2021

Das 1,3‐Bis(tricyanoboran)imidazolat‐Anion 1 wurde in hoher Ausbeute ausgehend von Lithiumimidazolat und B(CN)3‐Pyridin‐Addukt erhalten. Das Anion 1 ist chemisch sehr robust, was sich in der Isolierung des H5O2+‐Salzes widerspiegelt. Ferner dient 1 als Startmaterial für das neuartige dianionische N‐heterocyclische Carben (NHC), das 1,3‐Bis(tricyanoboran)imidazolin‐2‐ylidenat‐Anion 3, das mit seinem Carben‐Kohlenstoffatom und den Cyano‐Gruppen an Bor ein ditopischer Ligand ist. Erste Reaktionen des neuen NHC 3 mit Methyliodid, elementarem Selen und [Ni(CO)4] gaben das methylierte Imidazolat‐Ion 4, das dianionische Selen‐Addukt 5 und den dianionischen Nickeltricarbonyl‐Komplex 6. Diese NHC‐Derivate geben erste Einblicke in die elektronischen und sterischen Eigenschaften von 3. Insbesondere die Kombination von Eigenschaften – wie die zweifach negative Ladung, verschiedene Donorzentren, ein großes verdecktes Volumen und gute σ‐Donor‐ und π‐Akzeptor‐Eigenschaften – macht NHC 3 zu einem einzigartigen und vielversprechenden Liganden und Baustein.
Photocatalytic Upgrading of Lignin Oil to Diesel Precursors and Hydrogen
Authors: Dou Zhaolin , Zhang Zhe , Zhou Hongru , Wang Min
Published: May 2021

Producing renewable biofuels from biomass is a promising way to meet future energy demand. Here, we demonstrated a lignin to diesel route via dimerization of the lignin oil followed by hydrodeoxygenation. The lignin oil undergoes C−C bond dehydrogenative coupling over Au/CdS photocatalyst under visible light irradiation, co‐generating diesel precursors and hydrogen. The Au nanoparticles loaded on CdS can effectively restrain the recombination of photogenerated electrons and holes, thus improving the efficiency of the dimerization reaction. About 2.4 mmol gcatal−1 h−1 dimers and 1.6 mmol gcatal−1 h−1 H2 were generated over Au/CdS, which is about 12 and 6.5 times over CdS, respectively. The diesel precursors are finally converted into C16–C18 cycloalkanes or aromatics via hydrodeoxygenation reaction using Pd/C or porous CoMoS catalyst, respectively. The conversion of pine sawdust to diesel was performed to demonstrate the feasibility of the lignin‐to‐diesel route.