bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical Synthesis of Hybrid Layered Thermoelectric Materials Based on PEDOT/SnS Doped with Ag
Authors: Serrano‐Claumarchirant José F. , Igual‐Muñoz Ana María , Culebras Mario , Collins Maurice N. , Cantarero Andrés , Gómez Clara M.
Published: November 2021

Due to the increasing energy demand and public awareness of climate change and environmental problems, sustainable energy development has become one of the most strategic areas of research. In this work, a hybrid layered thermoelectric material is produced, which consists of the combination of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and tin sulfide (SnS). The films are produced by the electrochemical deposition of SnS on the surface of a PEDOT electrode. The thermoelectric properties are optimized by controlling the doping level of SnS by adding Ag. As a consequence, the power factor is remarkably improved up to 58.6 µW m–1 K–2, which is more than two orders of magnitude higher than that of the undoped materials.
Naturally Occurring 2D Heterostructure Nagyágite with Anisotropic Optical Properties
Authors: Dasgupta Arindam , Gao Jie , Yang Xiaodong
Published: November 2021

Nagyágite is a naturally occurring layered van der Waals heterostructure composed of alternating layers of [Pb(Pb,Sb)S2] and [(Au,Te)], where the component lattices are commensurately modulated. The weak van der Waals stacking between the heterolayers facilitates mechanical exfoliation. Due to its monoclinic crystal structure, nagyágite exhibits structural anisotropy which induces strong optical anisotropy. Here, the anisotropic optical properties of ultrathin nagyágite flakes mechanically exfoliated from a natural mineral are demonstrated through angle‐resolved polarized Raman scattering, linear dichroism, and polarization‐dependent anisotropic third‐harmonic generation. The study establishes nagyágite as a new type of natural van der Waals heterostructure based 2D material, which can be exploited for realizing ultrathin anisotropic optical devices for future on‐chip photonic integrated circuits.
Room‐Temperature Direct Synthesis of Tetragonal β‐CsPbI3 Nanocrystals
Authors: Chen Dejian , Huang Decai , Yang Mingwei , Xu Kunyuan , Hu Jie , Xu Feixiang , Liang Sisi , Zhu Haomiao
Published: November 2021

Phase engineering of CsPbI3 nanocrystals (NCs) is a priority for their optoelectronic applications. So far, the scalable and room‐temperature direct synthesis of black phase CsPbI3 NCs remains an enormous challenge because of the thermal unequilibrium‐induced phase transition. Herein the direct synthesis is reported of metastable β‐CsPbI3 NCs in gram‐scale at room‐temperature in seconds via spontaneous crystallization. The obtained β‐CsPbI3 NCs exhibit good monodispersity, narrow‐band far‐red emission (716 nm, FWHM = 38 nm) as well as a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 62%. The crystallization dynamics of β‐CsPbI3 NCs are revealed through in situ UV–vis absorption and photoluminescence spectra analysis. Finally, a photon‐to‐photon conversion indirect X‐ray detector based on the phase‐stable NCs/polystyrene film is preliminarily demonstrated. This scalable and low‐cost preparation of high‐quality metastable β‐CsPbI3 NCs will pave the way for their future commercial applications in novel optoelectronic devices.
Multilayer Conductive Hybrid Nanosheets as Versatile Hybridization Matrices for Optimizing the Defect Structure, Structural Ordering, and Energy‐Functionality of Nanostructured Materials
Authors: Kwon Nam Hee , Jin Xiaoyan , Kim Se‐Jun , Kim Hyungjun , Hwang Seong‐Ju
Published: November 2021

The hybridization of conductive nanospecies has garnered significant research interest because of its high efficacy in improving the diverse functionalities of nanostructured materials. In this study, a novel synthetic strategy is developed to optimize the defect structure, structural ordering, and energy‐related functionality of nanostructured‐materials by employing a multilayer multicomponent two‐dimenstional (2D) graphene/metal oxide/graphene nanosheet (NS) as a versatile hybridization matrix. The hybridization of the robust trilayer, polydiallyldiammonium (PDDA)‐anchored reduced‐graphene oxide (prGO)/metal oxide/prGO NS effectively enhance the structural ordering and porosity of the hybridized MoS2/MnO2 NS through suppression of defect formation and tight stacking. In comparison with monolayer rGO/RuO2 NS‐based homologs, the 2D superlattice trilayer prGO/RuO2/prGO NS hybrids deliver better functionalities as a hydrogen evolution electrocatalyst and as a supercapacitor electrode, demonstrating the merits of hybridization with multilayer NSs. The advantages of using multilayer multicomponent conductive NSs as hybridization matrices arise from the enhancement of charge and mass transport through the layer flattening or defect suppression of the hybridized NSs and the increase in porosity, as evidenced by density functional theory calculations. Finally, the universal utility of multilayer NSs is confirmed by investigating the strong effect of the stacking order on the electrocatalytic functionality of MoS2/rGO/RuO2 films fabricated through layer‐by‐layer deposition.
Synthesis of Naphthoquinone‐ and Pyrrolo[2,1‐a]isoquinoline‐Fused Heterocycles and Tridemethoxy Lamellarin D
Authors: Jhang Jia‐Wei , Manjappa Kiran B. , Yang Ding‐Yah
Published: November 2021

Synthesis of two lamellarin derivatives, that is, naphthoquinone‐fused pyrrolo[2,1‐a]isoquinoline and tridemethoxy lamellarin D was reported. The former was synthesized by Lewis acid‐catalyzed oxidative cyclization of 6,7‐dimethoxynaphthalene‐1,4‐dione and papaverine to form the pentacyclic scaffold. The latter was prepared via base‐mediated Grob coupling of 1‐methylisoquinoline and 7‐methoxy‐3‐nitrocoumarin as a key step to construct the lamellarin skeleton.
Are demographic correlates of white‐faced capuchin monkey (Cebus capucinus) “Gargle and Twargle” vocalization rates consistent with the infanticide risk assessment hypothesis?
Authors: Duchesneau Alexa , Edelberg Daniel G. , Perry Susan E.
Published: November 2021

Zahavi's “Bond Testing Hypothesis” states that irritating stimuli are used to elicit honest information from social partners regarding their attitudes towards the relationship. Two elements of theCebus capucinusvocal repertoire, the “gargle” and “twargle,” have been hypothesized to serve such a bond‐testing function. The greatest threat toC. capucinusinfant survival, and to adult female reproductive success, is infanticide perpetrated by alpha males. Thus, we predicted that infants (<8 months), pregnant females and females with infants would gargle/twargle at higher rates than the rest of the population, directing these vocalizations primarily to the alpha male. Over 16 years, researchers collected data via focal follows in 11 habituated groups of wild capuchins in Lomas Barbudal, Costa Rica. We found some support for our hypothesis. Infants and females with infants (<8 months) vocalized at higher rates than the rest of the population. Pregnant females did not vocalize at relatively high rates. Infants (age 8–23 months) were the only target group that vocalized more when the alpha male was not their father. Monkeys gargled and twargled most frequently towards the alpha male, who is both the perpetrator of infanticide and the most effective protector against potentially infanticidal males.
Unexpected Role of a Short‐Chain Dehydrogenase/Reductase Family Protein in Type II Polyketide Biosynthesis
Authors: Gao Yaojie , Zhao Yuchun , Zhou Jie , Yang Maohua , Lin Lin , Wang Wenning , Tao Meifeng , Deng Zixin , Jiang Ming
Published: November 2021

We investigated the biosynthetic pathway of type II polyketide murayaquinone. The murayaquinone biosynthetic cluster contains genes for three putative short‐chain dehydrogenase/reductase family enzymes including MrqF and MrqH with known functions and MrqM with unclear function. We report the functional characterization of MrqM for its role in murayaquinone biosynthesis. Our gene deletion experiment and structural elucidation of the accumulated intermediates revealed that MrqM is related with the second polyketide ring cyclization, because the inactivation of mrqM resulted in the accumulation of an off‐pathway intermediate SEK43 and disrupted the second and third ring cyclization. Site‐directed mutagenesis studies showed that two conserved residues in MrqM and homologous proteins Y151 and K155 are essential for its activity. The previously proposed second/third ring cyclase, MrqD, might instead play another important role in the chain releasing step of the murayaquinone biosynthesis.
Aggregation‐Enhanced Sonodynamic Activity of Phthalocyanine–Artesunate Conjugates
Authors: Zhao Peng‐Hui , Wu Yu‐Lin , Li Xue‐Yan , Feng Lin‐Lin , Zhang Ling , Zheng Bi‐Yuan , Ke Mei‐Rong , Huang Jian‐Dong
Published: November 2021

The clinical prospect of sonodynamic therapy (SDT) has not been fully realized due to the scarcity of efficient sonosensitizers. Herein, we designed phthalocyanine–artesunate conjugates (e.g. ZnPcT4A), which could generate up to ca. 10‐fold more reactive oxygen species (ROS) than the known sonosensitizer protoporphyrin IX. Meanwhile, an interesting and significant finding of aggregation‐enhanced sonodynamic activity (AESA) was observed for the first time. ZnPcT4A showed about 60‐fold higher sonodynamic ROS generation in the aggregated form than in the disaggregated form in aqueous solutions. That could be attributed to the boosted ultrasonic cavitation of nanostructures. The level of the AESA effect depended on the aggregation ability of sonosensitizer molecules and the particle size of their aggregates. Moreover, biological studies demonstrated that ZnPcT4A had high anticancer activities and biosafety. This study thus opens up a new avenue the development of efficient organic sonosensitizers.
Keeping intracellular DNA untangled: A new role for condensin?
Authors: Roca Joaquim , Dyson Silvia , Segura Joana , Valdés Antonio , Martínez‐García Belén
Published: November 2021

The DNA‐passage activity of topoisomerase II accidentally produces DNA knots and interlinks within and between chromatin fibers. Fortunately, these unwanted DNA entanglements are actively removed by some mechanism. Here we present an outline on DNA knot formation and discuss recent studies that have investigated how intracellular DNA knots are removed. First, although topoisomerase II is able to minimize DNA entanglements in vitro to below equilibrium values, it is unclear whether such capacity performs equally in vivo in chromatinized DNA. Second, DNA supercoiling could bias topoisomerase II to untangle the DNA. However, experimental evidence indicates that transcriptional supercoiling of intracellular DNA boosts knot formation. Last, cohesin and condensin could tighten DNA entanglements via DNA loop extrusion (LE) and force their dissolution by topoisomerase II. Recent observations indicate that condensin activity promotes the removal of DNA knots during interphase and mitosis. This activity might facilitate the spatial organization and dynamics of chromatin.
Protective role of cytoplasmic p21Cip1/Waf1 in apoptosis of CDK4/6 inhibitor‐induced senescence in breast cancer cells
Authors: Kartika Irna D. , Kotani Hitoshi , Iida Yuichi , Koyanagi Akira , Tanino Ryosuke , Harada Mamoru
Published: November 2021

Inhibition of CDK4/6 slows the cell cycle and induces senescence in breast cancer cells. However, senescent cancer cells promote invasion and metastasis. Several drugs reportedly target senescent cells, including ABT‐263 (navitoclax). We examined the effects of the CDK4/6 inhibitor abemaciclib and ABT‐263 on two human breast cancer cell lines. The abemaciclib and ABT‐263 combination additively decreased the viability of MDA‐MB‐231 cells, but not MCF‐7 cells. Also, the combination therapy‐induced caspase‐dependent apoptosis in MDA‐MB‐231 cells. Combination therapy with abemaciclib and ABT‐737, an ABT‐263 analog, significantly suppressed the in vivo growth of MDA‐MB‐231 with transient body‐weight loss. Given that p16Ink4a and p21Cip1/Waf1 are key factors in senescence and that both cell lines were negative for p16, the role of p21 in apoptosis of treated breast cancer cells was investigated. Although abemaciclib increased the cytoplasmic p21 level in both cell lines as a hallmark of senescence, the abemaciclib and ABT‐263 combination decreased it only in MDA‐MB‐231 cells. This decrease of p21 expression was relieved by caspase inhibition, and p21 was colocalized with caspase‐3 in the cytoplasm of MDA‐MB‐231 cells. Alternatively, small interfering RNA‐mediated knockdown of p21 rendered caspase‐3‐negative MCF‐7 cells susceptible to abemaciclib and ABT‐263, as well as TNF‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand. Furthermore, a clinical database analysis showed that p21high breast cancer patients had a poorer prognosis compared to p21low patients. These results suggest that cytoplasmic p21 plays a protective role in apoptosis of CDK4/6 inhibitor‐induced senescent breast cancer cells.
Did court dismiss free speech retaliation claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: November 2021

Jane Doe accepted a full scholarship from the University of Cincinnati to play volleyball. Doe violated a team rule during her first volleyball season by accidentally leaving her phone on the table during a team meal. The head coach allegedly required her to apologize to the team multiple times and began a campaign to humiliate Doe.
Get into the trenches with your coaches, staff
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: November 2021

When Lonny Allen, M.Ed., Vice President of Athletics at Tiffin University, brought in the emerging sport of women's wrestling and what he hopes will soon become the emerging sport of stunt, along with other men's and women's sports for a total of six new varsity teams, it meant much more to him than just checking the boxes for Title IX compliance. “This gives me a chance to have a role in giving women in sport more opportunities. We hope that we can hire more female coaches and bring more female student‐athletes to campus,” he said. And as the father of three daughters, he said he has even more reason to be a champion for women's sports.
Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Dodecyl Tannin Derivative Linked with 1,2,3‐Triazole
Authors: Yuan Hua , Zhou Peng , Peng Zhiyuan , Wang Chengzhang
Published: November 2021

Dodecyl tannin derivative linked with 1,2,3‐triazole was prepared by the click reaction of dodecyl azide and alkynylated tannin. The structure of tannin derivative was identified by FT‐IR spectrometer and elemental analyzer, and the surface activity, antioxidant activity and antimicrobial activity of tannin derivative were studied. The surface tension of tannin derivative was significantly reduced because of the introduction of long chain alkyl groups, and the lowest surface tension was 38.87 mN/m at 1.0 mg/mL. The tannin derivative had strong ability to scavenge 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl radical, the scavenging rate could reach 89.08 % at 0.25 mg/mL. The tannin derivative exhibited strong antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus due to the increased fat‐solubility of tannin derivative and the introduction of antibacterial triazole groups in molecular structure of tannin derivative, and the bacteriostatic ratios of tannin derivative against E. coli and S. aureus were 92.16 % and 89.21 % at 2.0 mg/mL, respectively. The tannin derivative can be used as good candidates for antibacterial packaging or antioxidant supplements.
Enhancing the Catalytic Activity of MOF‐808 Towards Peptide Bond Hydrolysis through Synthetic Modulations
Authors: Simms Charlotte , de Azambuja Francisco , Parac‐Vogt Tatjana N.
Published: November 2021

The performance of MOFs in catalysis is largely derived from structural features, and much work has focused on introducing structural changes such as defects or ligand functionalisation to boost the reactivity of the MOF. However, the effects of different parameters chosen for the synthesis on the catalytic reactivity of the resulting MOF remains poorly understood. Here, we evaluate the role of metal precursor on the reactivity of Zr‐based MOF‐808 towards hydrolysis of the peptide bond in the glycylglycine model substrate. In addition, the effect of synthesis temperature and duration has been investigated. Surprisingly, the metal precursor was found to have a large influence on the reactivity of the MOF, surpassing the effect of particle size or number of defects. Additionally, we show that by careful selection of the Zr‐salt precursor and temperature used in MOF syntheses, equally active MOF catalysts could be obtained after a 20 minute synthesis compared to 24 h synthesis.
Site‐Selective Pd‐Catalyzed C(sp3)−H Arylation of Heteroaromatic Ketones
Authors: Kudashev Anton , Baudoin Olivier
Published: November 2021

A ligand‐controlled site‐selective C(sp3)−H arylation of heteroaromatic ketones has been developed using Pd catalysis. The reaction occurred selectively at the α‐ or β‐position of the ketone side‐chain. The switch from α‐ to β‐arylation was realized by addition of a pyridone ligand. The α‐arylation process showed broad scope and high site‐ and chemoselectivity, whereas the β‐arylation was more limited. Mechanistic investigations suggested that α‐arylation occurs through C−H activation/oxidative addition/reductive elimination whereas β‐arylation involves desaturation and aryl insertion.
Synthesis, Structures, and Properties of Helically Fused Anthraquinones with Unusually Close Carbonyl‐Carbonyl Contacts
Authors: Morioka Kozue , Wakamatsu Kan , Tsurumaki Eiji , Toyota Shinji
Published: November 2021

Electron‐deficient aromatic ketones consisting of three fused anthraquinone units were synthesized by oxidation of the corresponding fused anthracenes. X‐ray analysis revealed that these compounds had nonplanar helical structures with unusual contacts, C=O⋅⋅⋅C=O 2.467 Å, between the inner carbonyl groups. The role of n⋅⋅⋅π* interactions in the short contacts was evaluated using a noncovalent interaction plot and natural bond orbital analysis. The dynamic process involving helical inversion was observed by the variable temperature 1H NMR measurement of a derivative with 2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl groups, and the barrier was estimated to be 77 kJ mol−1. DFT calculations indicated that the helical inversion proceeded via a multistep mechanism. The characteristic spectroscopic and electrochemical data due to the electron‐deficient anthraquinone units and the sterically congested carbonyl groups are discussed with the aid of DFT calculations.
The Choice of Nanoparticle Surface‐Coupled Fluorescent Dyes Impacts Cellular Interaction
Authors: Milosevic Ana M. , Haeni Laetitia , Ackermann Hirschi Liliane , Vanni Stefano , Campomanes‐Ramos Pablo , Rothen‐Rutishauser Barbara , Rodriguez‐Lorenzo Laura , Petri‐Fink Alke
Published: November 2021

Fluorescently‐labelled nanoparticles show great promise for nanoparticle tracking and detection in biological or medical applications. However, these fluorescent molecules functionalized on the surface of the nanoparticles can impact the interaction of nanoparticles with biomolecules, cells, and subsequently influence their uptake. To explore the extent of these interactions, PEGylated gold nanoparticles were functionalized with six structurally different fluorescent dyes to demonstrate that the presence of the dye alters nanoparticle behavior, in particular interactions with bovine serum albumin, which consequently influenced their cellular uptake.
Manipulator trajectory planning based on work subspace division
Authors: Liu Yibo , Xiao Fan , Tong Xiliang , Tao Bo , Xu Manman , Jiang Guozhang , Chen Baojia , Cao Yongcheng , Sun Nannan
Published: November 2021

The manipulator workspace is an essential element in the field of manipulator research and is of great significance for manipulator motion planning. However, little research has been conducted on dividing the manipulator workspace into working subspaces. No precise division method has been proposed; the inverse kinematics of multiple solutions in manipulator trajectory planning may also cause abrupt joint changes, thus affecting the planned trajectory. The article proposes a working subspace division method for all ball‐wrist 6DOF(degree‐of‐freedom) manipulators that satisfy the Piper criterion to address the above problems. The kinematic model of the manipulator is established, and the Jacobi matrix of the manipulator is obtained. The space of joints of the manipulator is divided into unique domains containing only single inverse kinematic solutions by means of singular trajectory lines when the determinant of the Jacobi matrix is zero; The solution from the joint space to the workspace is achieved by a nonlinear mapping, which completes the partitioning of the work subspace, and each work subspace contains only unique inverse kinematic solutions. When trajectory planning is carried out from the independent area of a single workspace to the overlapping area of multiple workspaces, selecting the inverse kinematic solution in a single working subspace can effectively avoid abrupt changes in the joints of the manipulator and trajectory misalignment caused by numerous inverse solution selection problems and make the planned trajectory smooth and consistent with the operational requirements of each scene.
The macroion effective charge in asymmetric complex plasmas
Authors: Martynova Inna A. , Iosilevskiy Igor L.
Published: November 2021

In this paper, a classical two‐component electroneutral equilibrium system of finite‐sized macroions with a charge () and oppositely charged microions with a single charge is considered. A self‐similar dependence of the macroion effective (“visible”) charge on the macroion initial charge , the system temperature, and the macroion size is obtained for fixed packing parameters in the framework of the Poisson–Boltzmann plus hole approximation (i.e., with regard to the nonlinear screening effect inside the hole) (hereinafter, in the PBH approximation). All microions are subdivided into free and bound. The concept of the macroion effective charge is introduced and its decrease was shown in comparison with the macroion initial charge in the PBH approximation with an additional consideration of microions correlations. The paper evaluates the possibility of a microions pseudo‐liquid phase separation into more and less dense phases in the PBH approximation with the microions correlations consideration.
Untapped potential of physiology, behaviour and immune markers to predict range dynamics and marginality
Authors: Shultz Susanne , Britnell Jake A. , Harvey Nicholas
Published: November 2021

Linking environmental conditions to the modulators of individual fitness is necessary to predict long‐term population dynamics, viability, and resilience. Functional physiological, behavioral, and reproductive markers can provide this mechanistic insight into how individuals perceive physiological, psychological, chemical, and physical environmental challenges through physiological and behavioral responses that are fitness proxies. We propose a Functional Marginality framework where relative changes in allostatic load, reproductive health, and behavior can be scaled up to evidence and establish causation of macroecological processes such as local extirpation, colonization, population dynamics, and range dynamics. To fully exploit functional traits, we need to move beyond single biomarker studies to develop an integrative approach that models the interactions between extrinsic challenges, physiological, and behavioral pathways and their modulators. In addition to providing mechanistic markers of range dynamics, this approach can also serve as a valuable conservation tool for evaluating individual‐ and population‐level health, predicting responses to future environmental change and measuring the impact of interventions. We highlight specific studies that have used complementary biomarkers to link extrinsic challenges to population performance. These frameworks of integrated biomarkers have untapped potential to identify causes of decline, predict future changes, and mitigate against future biodiversity loss.
Electrophoretic mobility of ester betulin derivatives and their complexation with γ‐cyclodextrin studied by capillary electrophoresis in aqueous solutions at different pH values
Authors: Sursyakova Viktoria V. , Levdansky Vladimir A. , Rubaylo Anatoly I.
Published: November 2021

In this article, capillary electrophoresis was used to measure the effective electrophoretic mobility of ester betulin derivatives as a pH function and to study their complexation with γ‐cyclodextrin (γ‐CD). The electrophoretic mobility of betulin 3,28‐diphthalate (DPhB) and 3,28‐disuccinate (DScB) changed unusually with decreasing pH: instead of decreasing, it first increased and then decreased. This fact as well as the turbidity of sample solutions at pH from 2.5 to 6, broadening of electrophoretic peaks and a decrease in the surface tension of the solutions indicates that these betulin derivatives, being amphiphilic compounds and weak acids, exist as micelles in aqueous solutions at pH 6 and below. The inclusion complexation of betulin derivatives with γ‐CD at pH 9.18 and 4.5 was studied by mobility shift affinity capillary electrophoresis. At pH 9.18, the apparent binding (stability) constant logarithms for 1:1 γ‐CD complexes of DPhB, betulin 3,28‐disulfate (DSB) and DScB with 95% confidence interval limits were equal to 7.44 ± 0.02, 7.09 (7.01–7.19), and 6.97 (6.87–7.08) at 25°C, respectively. At pH 4.5, the binding constant for the DSB complex was slightly lower, while the micelle formation did not allow determining the exact values of the constants for the DPhB and DScB complexes.
The Strategy of Achieving Flexibility in Materials and Configuration of Flexible Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Song Wanrong , Liu Xing , Li Ting-Ting , Wang Yanting , Zhang Xuefei , Lou Ching-Wen , Lin Jia-Horng
Published: November 2021

In recent years, with the development of flexible intelligent wearable devices, flexible batteries have attracted widespread attention in energy storage systems. To satisfy the power supply as well as the integrity of flexibility for the flexible intelligent wearable devices, the development of batteries with both excellent electrochemical performance and wearable flexibility has attracted a lot attention. This review is focused on the discussion of how to realize battery flexibility from the perspective of flexible lithium‐ion batteries as one of the most ideal and promising flexible power sources. Also, the development of flexible lithium‐ion batteries in recent years and the methods to achieve the flexibility are reviewed from the aspects of battery materials and electrode structures, to provide new ideas for research about flexible lithium‐ion battery with a high energy density in the future.
Feasibility of a culturally tailored dementia information program for minority ethnic communities in Denmark
Authors: Nielsen T. Rune , Nielsen Dorthe S. , Waldemar Gunhild
Published: November 2021

Objectives

Proactive efforts that take language and cultural barriers into consideration may be needed to raise awareness of dementia and improve access to services in minority ethnic communities. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of a culturally tailored dementia information program and the immediate effects on participants' intention to seek help for memory problems, their knowledge and beliefs about dementia, and their knowledge about options for support.

Methods

A novel dementia information program, consisting of one 2‐h session, was developed through a collaborative research process with primary care dementia coordinators and multicultural link workers as co‐researchers. It provides basic knowledge about dementia to minority ethnic communities and can be delivered in a community setting by non‐specialists.

Results

Six information program sessions were conducted with a total of 110 participants; 65 Turkish, 19 Pakistani, 20 Arabic‐speaking, and 6 with another minority ethnic heritage. The program had a significant effect on participants' immediate knowledge and beliefs about dementia as measured with a quiz (z = −2.02, p = 0.04, d = 0.90). In a post‐program focus group meeting, facilitating multicultural link workers reported satisfaction with facilitator training, adopted recruitment strategies, and content and delivery of the information sessions and provided feedback on improving the program.

Conclusions

The results provide support for the feasibility of the culturally tailored dementia information program. The program has the potential to improve knowledge and beliefs about dementia and options for formal support in minority ethnic communities and seems easily implemented in existing services, and at a low cost.
Metabolome and transcriptome analysis predicts metabolism of violet‐red color change in Lilium bulbs
Authors: Fan Wenguang , Li Baoyu , Tian Hui , Li Xin , Ren Haiwei , Zhou Qifen
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

During the storage and processing of Lilium bulbs, the phenomenon of violet‐red colour change in Lilium bulbs which is different from enzymatic browning often exists, but the specific mechanism is not clear.

RESULTS

In this study, we chose six‐year‐old Lilium davidii var. unicolor to study. Bulb scales which were sealed in polyethylene film plastic bags were exposed to room temperature (20 ± 2 °C) treatment for 5 days (12 h of sunshine and 12 h of sun shading). Metabolomics and transcript omics were conducted to elucidate the mechanism of violet‐red color change in Lilium bulbs. The results showed that the color of Lilium bulb scales was obvious violet‐red in 5 days; chromaticity value measuring showed the a values had the most significant upward trend. Metabolomics analysis showed many metabolites produced from the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway showed an upward trend. Transcriptome revealed that flavonoid biosynthesis pathway was significantly enriched, of which 20 synthesis genes were highly regulated expression. Metabolome and transcriptome co‐analysis that up‐regulated expression of flavonoids synthesis genes including ten chalcone synthase, two anthocyanidin reductase, and chalcone isomerase, 3′‐hydroxylase, 3‐hydroxylase, dihydroflavonol 4‐reductase, anthocyanin synthase, anthocyanidin 3‐O‐glucosyltransferase and flavonol synthase were highly positive correlated with epicatechin, rutin and cyanidin 3‐rutinoside.

CONCLUSION

Phenotypic, metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis indicated that the up‐related expression levels of genes and accumulated flavonoids related to flavonoid metabolism contributed greatly to the violet‐red colour change in Lilium bulbs. The results of this study will deepen our understanding of the color formation of violet‐red Lilium bulbs and provide the basis for future storage and preservation of Lilium bulbs. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Stability analysis for fractional order implicit ψ‐Hilfer differential equations
Authors: Asma  , Gómez‐Aguilar José Francisco , ur Rahman Ghaus , Javed Maryam
Published: November 2021

The present research endeavor contains formulation of a new ψ‐Hilfer differential equation equipped with integral‐type subsidiary conditions. Utilizing Picard operator method, Banach contraction principle, and Gronwall inequality, we explore solution's properties of the underlying problem. We provide some assumptions to set up results related to uniqueness of solution for the underlying model. Furthermore, stability analysis is studied in the sense of Ulam Hyers Mittag Leffler's definition. We furnish illustrative examples for the vindication of our obtained analytical results.
Organizational participation in community and life satisfaction of retirees: The mediating roles of positive and negative affect and moderating role of family relation
Authors: Chen Lanshuang , Zhang Jianxin , Zhang Zhen
Published: November 2021

This study examined the association between participation in community organizations and life satisfaction, and relevant mediating and moderating mechanisms among retirees. Positive and negative affect were considered as mediating variables, and family relation as a moderating variable. A total of 1132 community‐dwelling retirees aged 50 years or more were investigated. A self‐developed questionnaire with five items measured the level of organizational participation (OP) based on residential community. The Satisfaction with Life scale (SWLS), the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), and Family Cohesion sub‐scale of Family Environment Scale (FES) were used to assess life satisfaction, positive and negative affect, and family relation, respectively. Mplus was used to conduct mediating and moderating analyses after controlling for six demographic and socioeconomic factors. First, the results indicated that OP was positively associated with life satisfaction. Second, positive and negative affect partly mediated the relationship between OP and life satisfaction. Third, family relation negatively moderated the relationship between OP and life satisfaction; that is, compared with those retirees with good family relation, the beneficial role of OP in enhancing one's satisfaction was more significant for those retirees with poor family relation; furthermore, family relation also moderated the links of OP‐negative affect. These findings suggested that OP related to life satisfaction of retirees through mediating roles of positive and negative affect, and family relation partly moderated the above direct and indirect processes. In a word, OP based on residential community had a positive role in buffering adverse influence of poor family relation.
Pulsed X‐Ray Radiation Response of Ultralow Loss Pure‐Silica‐Core Optical Fibers
Authors: De Michele Vincenzo , Marcandella Claude , Morana Adriana , Campanella Cosimo , Vidalot Jeoffray , Paillet Philippe , Gaillardin Marc , Marin Emmanuel , Ouerdane Youcef , Boukenter Aziz , Girard Sylvain
Published: November 2021

The transient radiation response from the visible to the infrared (IR) domains (400–2200 nm) of an ultralow loss pure‐silica‐core and fluorine‐doped single‐mode optical fiber (ULL‐SMF) exposed to a short (tens of ns) 1 MeV X‐ray pulse is investigated. Online (hundredths of millisecond time resolution) radiation‐induced attenuation (RIA) spectra measurements are performed at both room and liquid nitrogen temperatures (RT and LNT). The main goals are to assess the vulnerability of this class of fibers as well as to characterize the metastable defects recovering just after the shot and responsible for the RIA decay kinetics. Their identification relies on a Gaussian spectral decomposition exploiting the optical absorption bands characteristics of point defects already known in literature. By comparing the ULL‐SMF behaviors at the two temperatures, the RIA unstable contributions are highlighted from the visible to IR domains, in particular the ones that are bleached in a timescale faster than the time resolution of a few milliseconds at RT. The origin of the induced losses is discussed revealing the fundamental role of the self‐trapped holes as intrinsic metastable defects in the response of this class of pure‐silica‐core OF.
Electrical Propulsion and Cargo Transport of Microbowl Shaped Janus Particles
Authors: Erez Shahar , Karshalev Emil , Wu Yue , Wang Joseph , Yossifon Gilad
Published: November 2021

Herein the effective electrical propulsion, cargo trapping, and transport capabilities of microbowl‐shaped Janus particles (JPs) are demonstrated and evaluated. These active JPs are made by deposition of Au and Ti layers onto sacrificial spherical polystyrene particles, followed by oxidation of the Ti to TiO2. In contrast to the commonly studied spherical JP, the dual broken symmetry of both geometrical and electrical properties of the microbowl renders a strong dependence of its mobility and cargo loading on the order of the layering of Au and TiO2. Specifically, an opposite direction of motion is obtained for interchanged layers of Au and TiO2, using only electrical propulsion as the sole mechanism of motion. The concave side of the microbowl exhibits a negative dielectrophoretic trap of large size wherein trapped cargo is protected from hydrodynamic shearing, leading to an enhanced cargo loading capacity compared to that obtained using common spherical JP. Such enhanced cargo capability of the microbowl along with the ease of engineering it by interchanging the order of the layers are very attractive for future in vitro biological and biomedical applications.
Probing Insulin Sensitivity with Metabolically Competent Human Stem Cell‐Derived White Adipose Tissue Microphysiological Systems
Authors: Qi Lin , Zushin Peter‐James H. , Chang Ching‐Fang , Lee Yue Tung , Alba Diana L. , Koliwad Suneil K. , Stahl Andreas
Published: November 2021

Impaired white adipose tissue (WAT) function has been recognized as a critical early event in obesity‐driven disorders, but high buoyancy, fragility, and heterogeneity of primary adipocytes have largely prevented their use in drug discovery efforts highlighting the need for human stem cell‐based approaches. Here, human stem cells are utilized to derive metabolically functional 3D adipose tissue (iADIPO) in a microphysiological system (MPS). Surprisingly, previously reported WAT differentiation approaches create insulin resistant WAT ill‐suited for type‐2 diabetes mellitus drug discovery. Using three independent insulin sensitivity assays, i.e., glucose and fatty acid uptake and suppression of lipolysis, as the functional readouts new differentiation conditions yielding hormonally responsive iADIPO are derived. Through concomitant optimization of an iADIPO‐MPS, it is abled to obtain WAT with more unilocular and significantly larger (≈40%) lipid droplets compared to iADIPO in 2D culture, increased insulin responsiveness of glucose uptake (≈2–3 fold), fatty acid uptake (≈3–6 fold), and ≈40% suppressing of stimulated lipolysis giving a dynamic range that is competent to current in vivo and ex vivo models, allowing to identify both insulin sensitizers and desensitizers.
Acidic TME‐Responsive Nano‐Bi2Se3@MnCaP as a NIR‐II‐Triggered Free Radical Generator for Hypoxia‐Irrelevant Phototherapy with High Specificity and Immunogenicity
Authors: Li Yongcan , Yu Honglian , Ren Junjie , Lu Guangjie , Cao Yang , Xu Zhigang , Kang Yuejun , Xue Peng
Published: November 2021

Here, acidic tumor microenvironment (TME)‐responsive nano‐Bi2Se3@MnCaP, as a near‐infrared‐II (NIR‐II) biowindow‐triggered free radical generator for hypoxia‑irrelevant phototherapy, is elaborately developed by biomimetic mineralization of MnCaP onto 2, 2′‐azobis[2‐(2‐imidazolin‐2‐yl)propane] dihydrochloride (AIPH)‐loaded mesoporous nano‐Bi2Se3 to form Bi2Se3/AIPH@MnCaP (BAM). Surface mineral of MnCaP can be degraded under mild acidity, leading to the release of both Mn2+ and AIPH. The leached Mn2+ not only facilitates chemodynamic therapy (CDT) via hydroxyl radicals (•OH) from Mn2+‐mediated Fenton‐like reaction but also acts as contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging. In another aspect, the splendid photothermal conversion capacity of BAM enables a rapid hyperthermia generation under NIR‐II laser irradiation for photothermal therapy (PTT). Simultaneously, the local thermal shock can induce the disintegration of AIPH to generate alkyl radicals (•R) for thermodynamic therapy (TDT) and accelerate Fenton‐like reaction rate to augment CDT efficacy. The strong synergistic effects from cooperative CDT/PTT/TDT are applied to 4T1 tumor suppression with minimal side effects. Importantly, the combination therapy can effectively trigger immunogenetic cell death and enhance antitumor immunity for systemic tumor eradication. Collectively, this proof‐of‐concept study demonstrates a more efficacious and safer strategy for oxygenation‐independent phototherapy, which holds a good potential for clinical translation in cancer management.
Highly Conductive Strong Healable Nanocomposites via Diels–Alder Reaction and Filler‐Polymer Covalent Bifunctionalization
Authors: Faseela K.P. , Benny Aby Paul , Kim Yongjun , Baik Seunghyun
Published: November 2021

Healable stretchable conductive nanocomposites have received considerable attention. However, there has been a trade‐off between the filler‐induced electrical conductivity (σ) and polymer‐driven mechanical strength. Here significant enhancements in both σ and mechanical strength by designing reversible covalent bonding of the polymer matrix and filler‐matrix covalent bifunctionalization are reported. A polystyrene‐block‐poly(ethylene‐ran‐butylene)‐block‐polystyrene grafted with maleic anhydride forms the strong reversible covalent bonding with furfuryl alcohol through the Diels–Alder reaction. Small (7.5 nm) and medium (117 nm) nanosatellite particles are generated by in situ etching of silver flakes, enabling electron tunneling‐assisted percolation. The filler‐polymer covalent bifunctionalization is achieved by 3‐mercaptopropanoic acid. Altogether, this results in high σ (108 300 S m−1) and tensile strength (16.4 MPa), breaking the trade‐off behavior. A nearly perfect (≈100%) healing efficiency is achieved in both σ and tensile strength. The conductive nanocomposite figure of merit (1.78 T Pa S m−1), defined by the product of σ and tensile strength, is orders of magnitude greater than the data in literature. The nanocomposite may find applications in healable strain sensors and electronic materials.
Hierarchical Atomic Layer Deposited V2O5 on 3D Printed Nanocarbon Electrodes for High‐Performance Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Gao Wanli , Michalička Jan , Pumera Martin
Published: November 2021

Aqueous rechargeable zinc‐ion batteries (ARZIBs) are promising energy storage systems owing to their ecofriendliness, safety, and cost‐efficiency. However, the sluggish Zn2+ diffusion kinetics originated from its inherent large atomic mass and high polarization remains an ongoing challenge. To this end, electrodes with 3D architectures and high porosity are highly desired. This work reports a rational design and fabrication of hierarchical core–shell structured cathodes (3D@V2O5) for ARZIBs by integrating fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D‐printing with atomic layer deposition (ALD). The 3D‐printed porous carbon network provides an entangled electron conductive core and interconnected ion diffusion channels, whereas ALD‐coated V2O5 serves as an active shell without sacrificing the porosity for facilitated Zn2+ diffusion. This endows the 3D@V2O5 cathode with high specific capacity (425 mAh g−1 at 0.3 A g−1), competitive energy and power densities (316 Wh Kg−1 at 213 W kg−1 and 163 Wh Kg−1 at 3400 W kg−1), and good rate performance (221 mAh g−1 at 4.8 A g−1). The developed 3D@V2O5 cathode provides a promising model for customized and scalable battery electrode engineering technology. As the ALD‐coated layer determines the functional properties, the proposed strategy shows a promising prospect of FDM 3D printing using 1D carbon materials for future energy storage.
Prospects of Electrode Materials and Electrolytes for Practical Potassium‐Based Batteries
Authors: Fan Ling , Hu Yanyao , Rao Apparao M. , Zhou Jiang , Hou Zhaohui , Wang Chengxin , Lu Bingan
Published: November 2021

Potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) have attracted tremendous attention because of their high energy density and low‐cost. As such, much effort has focused on developing electrode materials and electrolytes for PIBs at the material levels. This review begins with an overview of the high‐performance electrode materials and electrolytes, and then evaluates their prospects and challenges for practical PIBs to penetrate the market. The current status of PIBs for safe operation, energy density, power density, cyclability, and sustainability is discussed and future studies for electrode materials, electrolytes, and electrode‐electrolyte interfaces are identified. It is anticipated that this review will motivate research and development to fill existing gaps for practical potassium‐based full batteries so that they may be commercialized in the near future.
The location of urban healthcare services: Evidence from Phoenix Yelp reviews
Authors: Matti Josh , Ruseski Jane E.
Published: November 2021

The U.S. healthcare sector is a large and important industry. However, relatively little is known about the localization and colocalization patterns of healthcare services within an urban area. By using Yelp data from over 3000 healthcare service establishments in the Phoenix area, this paper applies a recent spatial econometric technique to the analysis of healthcare services. The results reveal that spatial concentration varies across distances and types of healthcare services. Localization is more prevalent at closer distances, and general practitioners tend to be more dispersed than specialists. Colocalization with hospitals is most likely for specialists while family practices and dentistry services tend to locate away from hospitals. Different types of location patterns across different types of healthcare services are relevant for informing policies addressing healthcare access and competition in healthcare markets.
High‐Performance Semitransparent Organic Solar Cells Enabled by Improved Charge Transport and Optical Engineering of Ternary Blend Active Layer
Authors: Zhang Yuniu , Luo Dou , Shan Chengwei , Liu Qian , Gu Xiaoyu , Li Wenhui , Choy Wallace C. H. , Kyaw Aung Ko Ko
Published: November 2021

Semitransparent organic solar cells (STOSCs) make the industrialization of power‐generating windows a reality with promising average visible transmittance (AVT) and rapidly increased power conversion efficiencies (PCEs). To achieve the ultimate goal, improving the efficiency of STOSCs without degrading the transparency in visible range is critical. Herein, a nonfused ring acceptor (BDC‐4F‐C8) by alkyl chain engineering is used as third component for ternary blend active layer to enhance the electrical and optical properties of STOSCs. With optimizing the proportion of third component, STOSCs with ternary active layer exhibit improved open‐circuit voltage, short‐circuit current, and fill factor, which leads to the best PCE of 13.19% with AVT of 24.56%, while the PCE of opaque one is 17.02%. This work presents an effective strategy to achieve high‐performance ternary STOSCs with high AVT employing a low‐cost nonfused ring electron acceptor material, and manifests how the third component affects the optical features of a ternary active layer to achieve efficient semitransparent devices.
Direct Neuronal Differentiation of Neural Stem Cells for Spinal Cord Injury Repair
Authors: Xue Weiwei , Fan Caixia , Chen Bing , Zhao Yannan , Xiao Zhifeng , Dai Jianwu
Published: November 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) typically results in long-lasting functional deficits, largely due to primary and secondary wh ite matter damage at the site of injury. The transplantation of neural stem cells (NSCs) has shown promise for re-establishing communications between separated regions of the spinal cord through the insertion of new neurons between the injured axons and target neurons. However, the inhibitory microenvironment that develops after SCI often causes endogenous and transplanted NSCs to differentiate into glial cells rather than neurons. Functional biomaterials have been shown to mitigate the effects of the adverse SCI microenvironment and promote the neuronal differentiation of NSCs. A clear understanding of the mechanisms of neuronal differentiation within the injury-induced microenvironment would likely allow for the development of treatment strategies designed to promote the innate ability of NSCs to differentiate into neurons. The increased differentiation of neurons may contribute to relay formation, facilitating functional recovery after SCI. In this review, we summarize current strategies used to enhance the neuronal differentiation of NSCs through the reconstruction of the SCI microenvironment and to improve the intrinsic neuronal differentiation abilities of NSCs, which is significant for SCI repair.