bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finite‐time state‐feedback stabilization of high‐order stochastic nonlinear systems with an asymmetric output constraint
Authors: Gao Mengmeng , Zhao Junsheng , Zhuang Guangming , Sun Zongyao
Published: May 2022

This article focuses on finite‐time state‐feedback stabilization for high‐order stochastic nonlinear systems with an asymmetric output constraint. In the presence of the systems with uncertain control coefficients, a novel asymmetric barrier Lyapunov function is constructed to manipulate the output constraint for the systems. By adding a power integrator technique and sign function, this article designs a state‐feedback controller by recursive method for the high‐order stochastic nonlinear systems. While guaranteeing output constraint, the finite‐time state‐feedback stabilization is achieved for the proposed stochastic nonlinear systems. It is shown that the control problem under consideration is solvable. Finally, the efficiency of the control strategy is illustrated by a simulation example.
Distributed event‐triggered tracking consensus control for privacy preservation in multi‐agent systems with denial‐of‐service attacks
Authors: Gong Yuting , Xue Hong , Pan Yingnan , Cui Jingpeng
Published: May 2022

This article investigates the distributed tracking consensus control problem based on event‐triggered strategy for privacy preservation in nonlinear multi‐agent systems which suffer from denial‐of‐service (DoS) attacks. To address the insecurity of information exposure in the distributed control strategy, the method of privacy preservation for initial information is developed by relying on output maps as masks. Due to the existence of nonlinear dynamics, the neural networks are introduced to deal with unknown nonlinear functions. Then, an event‐triggered communication strategy based on the exponential time‐varying vector is provided to regulate the information transmission under the situation of DoS attacks. Subsequently, combining the proposed event‐triggered strategy, an asynchronous update control scheme is structured to reduce the effect of DoS attacks. It is demonstrated that the tracking consensus can be achieved by utilizing the Lyapunov function and the induction method. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed control method is demonstrated by a simulation example.
Flexible and Tough Superelastic Co–Cr Alloys for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Odaira Takumi , Xu Sheng , Hirata Kenji , Xu Xiao , Omori Toshihiro , Ueki Kosuke , Ueda Kyosuke , Narushima Takayuki , Nagasako Makoto , Harjo Stefanus , Kawasaki Takuro , Bodnárová Lucie , Sedlák Petr , Seiner Hanuš , Kainuma Ryosuke
Published: May 2022

The demand for biomaterials has been increasing along with the increase in the population of elderly people worldwide. The mechanical properties and high wear resistance of metallic biomaterials make them well‐suited for use as substitutes or as support for damaged hard tissues. However, unless these biomaterials also have a low Young's modulus similar to that of human bones, bone atrophy inevitably occurs. Because a low Young's modulus is typically associated with poor wear resistance, it is difficult to realize a low Young's modulus and high wear resistance simultaneously. Also, the superelastic property of shape‐memory alloys makes them suitable for biomedical applications, like vascular stents and guide wires. However, due to the low recoverable strain of conventional biocompatible shape‐memory alloys, the demand for a new alloy system is high. The novel body‐centered‐cubic cobalt–chromium‐based alloys in this work provide a solution to both of these problems. The Young's modulus of <001>‐oriented single‐crystal cobalt–chromium‐based alloys is 10–30 GPa, which is similar to that of human bone, and they also demonstrate high wear and corrosion resistance. They also exhibit superelasticity with a huge recoverable strain up to 17.0%. For these reasons, the novel cobalt–chromium‐based alloys can be promising candidates for biomedical applications.
Electro‐/Photo‐Thermal Promoted Anti‐Icing Materials: A New Strategy Combined with Passive Anti‐Icing and Active De‐Icing
Authors: He Zhiwei , Xie Hangming , Jamil Muhammad Imran , Li Tong , Zhang Qinghua
Published: May 2022

Ice accretion on exposed surfaces is unavoidable as time elapses and temperature lowers sufficiently in nature, causing detrimental impacts on the normal performance of devices and facilities. To mitigate icing problems, both active de‐icing and passive anti‐icing materials (AIM) have been utilized. Traditional active anti‐icing methods suffer from energy consumption, low efficiency and high cost, while passive AIM meet the challenges of improving mechanical durability and maintaining low ice adhesion strength during icing/de‐icing cycles. Recently, new AIM are rationally designed by the combination of passive anti‐icing and active de‐icing, exhibiting efficient, reliable and energy‐saving properties. The conceptual idea is that passive AIM only need to reach a certain value of ice adhesion strength (i.e., τice<100 kPa) instead of achieving lowest ice adhesion strength, and simultaneously combine with active de‐icing techniques (i.e., electro‐thermal and photo‐thermal stimulus) to realize ideal all‐weather anti‐icing/de‐icing. In this review paper, the authors provide a brief introduction to passive AIM, and mainly focus on recent advances in the electro‐/photo‐thermal promoted AIM in terms of anti‐icing/de‐icing mechanisms, challenges and perspectives. The new conceptual anti‐icing/de‐icing strategy will inspire the rational design of the state‐of‐the‐art AIM in future and provides practical solutions to mitigate outdoor anti‐icing/de‐icing problems in daily lives.
Quasi‐Solid Electrolyte Design and In Situ Construction of Dual Electrolyte/Electrode Interphases for High‐Stability Zinc Metal Battery
Authors: Guo Shan , Qin Liping , Hu Chao , Li Lanyan , Luo Zhigao , Fang Guozhao , Liang Shuquan
Published: May 2022

Interfacial stability and compatibility in rechargeable metal batteries (RMBs) is still made difficult by deterioration under electrochemical dynamic operation due to the activeness of the metallic anodes and their spontaneous reaction with the liquid electrolyte. Herein, robust quasi‐solid zinc metal batteries enabled by in situ formation of stable dual electrolyte/electrode interphases with an electrochemical stability during cycling are reported. The quasi‐solid electrolyte sufficiently transfers the zinc ions due to the construction of the unobstructed ions transportation network composed of intergranular liquid phase migration and interlayer diffusion. The distinctive in situ formation of dual interphases, specially with heterojunction charge aggregation, cleverly settles the issues of interfacial compatibility, which achieves a stable Zn2+ plating/stripping of more than 3000 h and far exceeding the transient 250 h of its liquid counterpart. This design strategy for quasi‐solid electrolytes is expected to advance the development of the quasi‐solid battery field.
Diagnostic distribution and postnatal evaluation of prenatally detected short femur: A single center experience
Authors: Kahraman Ayca Burcu , Simsek‐Kiper Pelin Ozlem , Utine Gulen Eda , Boduroglu Koray
Published: May 2022

Genetic skeletal disorders (GSDs) are clinically and etiologically heterogeneous group of disorders caused by abnormal growth and development of bone and/or cartilaginous tissues. Timely and accurate diagnosis is essential for prevention of significant comorbidities. In this study demographic, parental, prenatal and natal characteristics, and postnatal diagnostic distribution along with follow‐up processes of 104 individuals with the finding of “short femur” detected in routine prenatal ultrasonography were evaluated. Of 104 patients, 19 (18.2%) were medically terminated, 12 (11.6%) were deceased during follow‐up and 73 (70.2%) were still under follow‐up. Diagnostic distribution of 104 patients was as follows: 77 (74%) had GSD, eight (7.7%) had chromosomal disorder, seven (6.7%) were completely normal, and 12 (11.5%) had no definite diagnosis. Long‐term follow up evaluation contributed to clinical diagnosis in four patients. When grouped according to Nosology and Classification of GSDs: 2019 revision, the most frequent (n = 30, 38.5%) group was “FGFR3 chondrodysplasia group”, followed by “Type 2 collagen group” (n = 7, 9%), and “Osteogenesis imperfecta and decreased bone density group” (n = 5, 6.4%). The finding of prenatally detected “short femur” represents a group of diverse diagnosis with heterogeneous etiology. GSDs are the most common etiology among fetuses with short extremity.
Engineering Aptamers with Selectively Enhanced Biostability in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Xie Sitao , Wang Zhimin , Fu Ting , Zheng Liyan , Wu Hui , He Lei , Huang Huidong , Yang Cai , Wang Ruowen , Qian Xu , Qiu Liping , Tan Weihong
Published: May 2022

Aptamers are emerging as promising molecular tools in cancer‐targeted theranostics. Improving their in vivo stability has been a critical issue in promoting clinical translation, but such efforts could lead to more serious side effects resulting from prolonged retention in healthy organs. To address this problem, we developed an environment‐responsive stabilization strategy for the selective enhancement of aptamer biostability in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Briefly, by means of the end extension of an ATP‐responsive protection (ARP) module, the designed aptamer could be protected from nuclease degradation through the specific incorporation of ATP. Based on our in vivo results, this ARP‐aptamer probe was effectively accumulated in tumors via aptamer‐based molecular recognition. It showed selectively prolonged tumor retention time, but rapid digestion in healthy organs. Our strategy should provide a new paradigm for the development of organ‐specific nucleic acid‐based imaging and therapeutic agents.
Chiral Multi‐Resonance TADF Emitters Exhibiting Narrowband Circularly Polarized Electroluminescence with an EQE of 37.2 %
Authors: Yang Yiyu , Li Nengquan , Miao Jingsheng , Cao Xiaosong , Ying Ao , Pan Ke , Lv Xialei , Ni Fan , Huang Zhongyan , Gong Shaolong , Yang Chuluo
Published: May 2022

Highly efficient circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) emitters with narrowband emission remain a formidable challenge for circularly polarized OLEDs (CP‐OLEDs). Here, a promising strategy for developing chiral emitters concurrently featuring multi‐resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR‐TADF) and circularly polarized electroluminescence (CPEL) is demonstrated by the integration of molecular rigidity, central chirality and MR effect. A pair of chiral green emitters denoted as (R)‐BN‐MeIAcand (S)‐BN‐MeIAcis designed. Benefited by the rigid and quasi‐planar MR‐framework, the enantiomers not only display mirror‐image CPL spectra, but also exhibit TADF properties with a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 96 %, a narrow FWHM of 30 nm, and a high horizontal dipole orientation of 90 % in the doped film. Consequently, the enantiomer‐based CP‐OLEDs achieved excellent external quantum efficiencies of 37.2 % with very low efficiency roll‐off, representing the highest device efficiency of all the reported CP‐OLEDs.
High‐Performance Zeolitic Hollow‐Fiber Membranes by a Viscosity‐Confined Dry Gel Conversion Process for Gas Separation
Authors: Yang Shaowei , Min Byunghyun , Fu Qiang , Jones Christopher W. , Nair Sankar
Published: May 2022

Zeolite membranes show great potential for gas and hydrocarbon separations, but high manufacturing cost has been one of the main hurdles in their industrial application. Here we demonstrate a method termed viscosity‐confined dry gel conversion (VCDGC) for zeolite hollow fiber membrane fabrication. We demonstrate in detail the VCDGC synthesis of small‐pore CHA zeolite membranes. Extensive permeation measurements reveal that dry gel‐processed CHA zeolite hollow fiber membranes have excellent gas and hydrocarbon separation characteristics well exceeding or comparable to current membranes. Medium‐pore MFI membranes are also fabricated, and their favorable hydrocarbon separation characteristics indicate the versatility and reliability of the VCDGC method.
Biocatalytic Enantioselective β‐Hydroxylation of Unactivated C−H Bonds in Aliphatic Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Zhang Kun , Yu Aiqin , Chu Xuan , Li Fudong , Liu Juan , Liu Lin , Bai Wen‐Ju , He Chao , Wang Xiqing
Published: May 2022

Catalytic selective hydroxylation of unactivated aliphatic (sp3) C−H bonds without a directing group represents a formidable task for synthetic chemists. Through directed evolution of P450BSβ hydroxylase, we realize oxyfunctionalization of unactivated C−H bonds in a broad spectrum of aliphatic carboxylic acids with varied chain lengths, functional groups and (hetero‐)aromatic moieties in a highly chemo‐, regio‐ and enantioselective fashion (>30 examples, Cβ/Cα>20 : 1, >99 % ee). The X‐ray structure of the evolved variant, P450BSβ‐L78I/Q85H/G290I, in complex with palmitic acid well rationalizes the experimentally observed regio‐ and enantioselectivity, and also reveals a reduced catalytic pocket volume that accounts for the increased reactivity with smaller substrates. This work showcases the potential of employing a biocatalyst to enable a chemical transformation that is particularly challenging by chemical methods.
Sigmatrope [1,5]‐Kohlenstoffverschiebung transienter C3‐Ammoniumenolate
Authors: Wicker Garrit , Zhou Rundong , Schoch Roland , Paradies Jan
Published: May 2022

Die stereospezifische [1,5]‐Kohlenstoffverschiebung der C3‐Ammoniumenolate wird beschrieben. Gemäß mechanistischen, kinetischen und rechnergestützten Experimenten verläuft die neuartige Umlagerung über ein transientes C3‐Ammoniumenolat. Dies wird durch eine katalysierte intramolekulare Aza‐Michael‐Addition erzeugt. Die anschließende [1,5]‐sigmatrope Kohlenstoffmigration bildet die entsprechenden Tetrahydrochinolin‐4‐one in 61–98 % Ausbeute und mit exzellenten Diastereoselektivitäten von d.r. >99 : 1.
Total Synthesis of Parameritannin A2, a Branched Epicatechin Tetramer with Two Double Linkages
Authors: Betkekar Vipul V. , Suzuki Keisuke , Ohmori Ken
Published: May 2022

The first total synthesis of parameritannin A2 (1), a branched epicatechin (EC) tetramer is reported. The “phloroglucinol trick” was used to circumvent two synthetic issues encountered when assembling four EC units, namely, the steric constraint and the formation of the C4−C6 interflavan linkage. As a substructure of the middle EC unit, phloroglucinol enabled the single‐step assembly of two EC units (top and side) through A‐type linkages. The middle EC unit was constructed by conducting a newly developed three‐carbon flavan annulation via a Pummerer/Friedel–Crafts cascade reaction to furnish a trimeric intermediate bearing a thio‐leaving group at C4 position, which allowed the final installation of the bottom EC unit.
Cobalt Silylenes as Platforms for Catalytic Nitrene‐Group Transfer by Metal–Ligand Cooperation.
Authors: Whited Matthew T. , Han Wenlai , Jin‐Lee Helen J. , DiNardo Zach , Watson Emma , Zhang Jia , Kohen Daniela
Published: May 2022

A cobalt silylene (Co=Si) linkage enables a distinct metal/ligand cooperative activation of an organic azide, where nitrene transfer occurs to and from the Co⋅⋅⋅Si linkage without ligand dissociation from the 18‐electron cobalt center. This process utilizes the orthogonal binding affinities of the silicon and cobalt sites to avoid CO poisoning that would otherwise inhibit reactivity, leading to significantly improved catalytic isocyanate generation compared with related systems. The dual‐site approach demonstrates the potential of metal/main‐group bonds to access new and efficient catalytic pathways.
Structural Origin of Enhanced Circularly Polarized Luminescence in Hybrid Manganese Bromides
Authors: Chen Jian , Zhang Shuai , Pan Xin , Li Ruiqian , Ye Shi , Cheetham Anthony K. , Mao Lingling
Published: May 2022

Chiral hybrid metal halides with a high dissymmetry factor (glum) and a superior photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) are promising candidates for circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) light sources. Here, we report eight new chiral hybrid manganese halides, crystallizing in the non‐centrosymmetric space group P212121 and showing intense CPL emissions. Oppositely‐signed circular dichroism (CD) and CPL signals are detected according to the R‐ and S‐configurations of the chiral alkanolammonium cations. Time‐resolved PL spectra show long averaged decay lifetimes up to 1 ms for (R‐3‐quinuclidinol)MnBr3 (R‐1). The glum of polycrystalline samples for coordinated structures (23×10−3) is more than doubled compared with the non‐coordinated ones (8.5×10−3), due to the structural variations. R‐1 exhibit both a high glum and a high PLQY (50.2 %). The effective chirality transfer mechanism through coordination bonds, with strongly emissive MnII centers, enables a new class of high‐performance CPL materials.
Extending the π‐Skeleton of Multi‐Resonance TADF Materials towards High‐Efficiency Narrowband Deep‐Blue Emission
Authors: Lv Xialei , Miao Jingsheng , Liu Meihui , Peng Qian , Zhong Cheng , Hu Yuxuan , Cao Xiaosong , Wu Han , Yang Yiyu , Zhou Changjiang , Ma Jiazhi , Zou Yang , Yang Chuluo
Published: May 2022

Multi‐resonance TADF (MR‐TADF) emitters are promising for high‐resolution OLEDs, but the concurrent optimization of excited‐state dynamics and color purity remains a tough challenge. Herein, three deep‐blue MR‐TADF compounds (BN1–BN3) featuring gradually enlarged ring‐fused structures and increased rigidity are accessed by lithium‐free borylation in high yields from the same precursor, with all the emitters possessing CIEy coordinates below 0.08. Structure–property investigations demonstrate a strategic improvement of the oscillator strength (fosc) and acceleration of the reverse intersystem crossing (RISC) process by extending the π‐skeleton, where BN3 realizes a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 37.6 % and reduced roll‐off, thus showing the best efficiency reported for deep‐blue TADF OLEDs. The internal regulation of the efficiency and color purity of these compounds validate the general effectiveness to achieve advanced deep‐blue narrowband emitters with higher‐order boron/nitrogen‐based MR motifs.
Enhancement of Plasmon‐Induced Photoelectrocatalytic Water Oxidation over Au/TiO2 with Lithium Intercalation
Authors: Li Hao , Wang Shengyang , Wang Mingtan , Gao Yuying , Tang Jianbo , Zhao Shengli , Chi Haibo , Zhang Pengfei , Qu Jiangshan , Fan Fengtao , Li Can
Published: May 2022

Plasmon‐induced chemical reaction is an emerging field but its development faces huge challenges because of low quantum efficiency. Herein, we report that the solar energy conversion efficiency of Au/TiO2 in plasmon‐induced water oxidation is greatly enhanced by intercalating Li+ into TiO2. An incident photon‐to‐current efficiency as high as 2.0 %@520 nm is achieved by Au/Li0.2TiO2 in photoelectrocatalytic water oxidation, realizing a 33‐fold enhancement in photocurrent density compared with Au/TiO2. The superior photoelectrocatalytic performance is mainly ascribed to the enhanced electric conductivity and higher catalytic activity of Li0.2TiO2. Furthermore, the ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy suggests that lithium intercalation into TiO2 could change the dynamics of hot electron relaxation in Au nanoparticles. This work demonstrates that intercalation of alkaline ions into semiconductors can promote the charge separation efficiency of the plasmonic effect of Au/TiO2.
Sigmatropic [1,5] Carbon Shift of Transient C3 Ammonium Enolates
Authors: Wicker Garrit , Zhou Rundong , Schoch Roland , Paradies Jan
Published: May 2022

The stereospecific sigmatropic [1,5] carbon shift of C3 ammonium enolates is discovered. According to mechanistic, kinetic and computational experiments, this new rearrangement proceeds via the catalytic generation of a transient C3 ammonium enolate by intramolecular aza‐Michael addition. This intermediate rapidly undergoes [1,5] sigmatropic carbon migration to furnish the respective tetrahydroquinoline‐4‐ones with excellent diastereoselectivities of d.r. >99 : 1 and in 61–98 % yield.
Synthesis, characterization, XRD, SEM, DNA binding, and effect of γ‐irradiation of some new Ni (II) and Co (II) complexes with thiosemicarbazone ligand: In vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant activities
Authors: Aly Samar A. , Hassan Safaa S. , Eldourghamy Ayman S. , Badr Entsar E. , El‐Salamoney Mogda A. , Hassan Mona A. , Elganzory Hussein H.
Published: May 2022

Ni (II) and Co (II) complexes of thiosemicarbazide ligand (2‐(anilinoacetyl)‐N‐(3‐methylphenyl)hydrazine‐1‐carbothioamide(H2LB) have been prepared and characterized by 1HNMR, IR, elemental analyses, molar conductance, UV–visible spectra, magnetic susceptibility measurements, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTG), and X‐ray differaction pattern before and after irradiation. The results confirmed that gamma rays enhanced the stability of irradiated compounds compared with those non‐irradiated. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations of synthesized compounds were completely optimized with respect to the energy using B3LYP level. DNA binding of compounds before and after gamma irradiation has been studied. Inhibitory effect on the growth of bacteria against gram‐positive (Streptococcus pyogenes) and gram‐negative (Escherichia coli) of synthesized compounds have been investigated. The results revealed that Ni (II) complex after gamma irradiation showed a higher antibacterial activity against gram positive and gram negative bacteria more than all investigated compounds. The ability of scavenging 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical by our synthesized compounds was investigated on the basis of the determination of IC50 values.
Electrical stimulation therapy and rotary jet‐spinning scaffold to treat bone defects
Authors: Meneghetti Damaris Helena , Bagne Leonardo , de Andrade Pinto Stella Aparecida , de Carvalho Zavaglia Cecilia Amelia , Amaral Maria Esméria Corezola , Esquisatto Marcelo Augusto Maretto , dos Santos Gláucia Maria Tech , de Andrade Thiago Antônio Moretti , Santamaria Milton , Caetano Guilherme Ferreira , de Aro Andrea Aparecida , Mendonça Fernanda Aparecida Sampaio
Published: May 2022

The combination of electrical stimulation (ES) and bone tissue engineering (BTE) has been successful in treatments of bone regeneration. This study evaluated the effects of ES combined with PCL + β‐TCP 5% scaffolds obtained by rotary jet spinning (RJS) in the regeneration of bone defects in the calvaria of Wistar rats. We used 120 animals with induced bone defects divided into 4 groups (n = 30): (C) without treatment; (S) with PCL+ β‐TCP 5% scaffold; (ES) treated with ES (10 μA/5 min); (ES + S) with PCL + β‐TCP 5% scaffold. The ES occurred twice a week during the entire experimental period. Cell viability (in vitro: Days 3 and 7) and histomorphometric, histochemical, and immunohistochemical (in vivo; Days 30, 60, and 90) analysis were performed. In vitro, ES + S increased cell viability after Day 7 of incubation. In vivo, it was observed modulation of inflammatory cells in ES therapy, which also promoted blood vessels proliferation, and increase of collagen. Moreover, ES therapy played a role in osteogenesis by decreasing ligand kappa B nuclear factor‐TNFSF11 (RANKL), increasing alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and decreasing the tartarate‐resistant acid phosphatase. The combination of ES with RJS scaffolds may be a promising strategy for bone defects regeneration, since the therapy controlled inflammation, favored blood vessels proliferation, and osteogenesis, which are important processes in bone remodeling.
Competitive Oxygen Reduction Pathways to Superoxide and Peroxide during Sodium‐Oxygen Battery Discharge
Authors: Jovanov Zarko P. , Lutz Lukas , Lozano Juan G. , Holc Conrad , Gao Xiangwen , Grimaud Alexis , Tarascon Jean‐Marie , Chen Yuhui , Johnson Lee R. , Bruce Peter G.
Published: May 2022

The sodium‐air battery offers a sustainable, high‐energy alternative to lithium‐ion batteries. Discharge in the cell containing glyme‐based electrolytes can lead to formation of large cubic NaO2 particles via a solution‐precipitation mechanism. While promising, high rates result in sudden death. The exact nature of the discharge product has been a matter of contention, and Na2O2 has never been directly detected in a dry glyme Na−O2 cell. If Na2O2 were to form during discharge in the Na−O2 cell it would have a detrimental impact on cell performance. Here we show that Na2O2 forms during discharge at high overpotential in the glyme‐based Na−O2 batteries. Na2O2 formation is confirmed by spectroscopic and electrochemical analysis and electron microscopy demonstrates that it results in thin insulating films at the electrode surface. The formation of these thin films results in rapid cell death during discharge, introducing an inherent chemical limitation to the Na−O2 battery.
The Dynamic Range of Acidity: Tracking Rules for the Unidirectional Penetration of Cellular Compartments
Authors: Assies Lea , Mercier Vincent , López‐Andarias Javier , Roux Aurelien , Sakai Naomi , Matile Stefan
Published: May 2022

Labeled ammonium cations with pKa∼7.4 accumulate in acidic organelles because they can be neutralized transiently to cross the membrane at cytosolic pH 7.2 but not at their internal pH<5.5. Retention in early endosomes with less acidic internal pH was achieved recently using weaker acids of up to pKa9.8. We report here that primary ammonium cations with higher pKa10.6, label early endosomes more efficiently. This maximized early endosome tracking coincides with increasing labeling of Golgi networks with similarly weak internal acidity. Guanidinium cations with pKa13.5 cannot cross the plasma membrane in monomeric form and label the plasma membrane with selectivity for vesicles embarking into endocytosis. Self‐assembled into micelles, guanidinium cations enter cells like arginine‐rich cell‐penetrating peptides and, driven by their membrane potential, penetrate mitochondria unidirectionally despite their high inner pH. The resulting tracking rules with an approximated dynamic range of pKachange ∼3.5 are expected to be generally valid, thus enabling the design of chemistry tools for biology research in the broadest sense. From a practical point of view, most relevant are two complementary fluorescent flipper probes that can be used to image the mechanics at the very beginning of endocytosis.
Triangular Arrangement of Ferromagnetic Iron Chains in the High‐TC Ferromagnet TiFe1−xOs2+xB2
Authors: Scheifers Jan P. , Flores Justin H. , Janka Oliver , Pöttgen Rainer , Fokwa Boniface P. T.
Published: May 2022

Transition‐metal borides (TMBs) containing Bn‐fragment (n>3) have recently gained interest for their ability to enable exciting magnetic materials. Herein, we show that the B4‐containing TiFe0.64(1)Os2.36(1)B2 is a new ferromagnetic TMB with a Curie temperature of 523(2) K and a Weiss constant of 554(3) K, originating from the chain of M3‐triangles (M=64 %Fe+36 %Os). The new phase was synthesized from the elements by arc‐melting, and its structure was elucidated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. It belongs to the Ti1+xOs2−xRuB2‐type structure (space group P
2 m, no. 189) and contains trigonal‐planar B4 boron fragments [B−B distance of 1.87(4) Å] interacting with M3‐triangles [M–M distances of 2.637(8) Å and 3.0199(2) Å]. The experimental results were supported by computational calculations based on the ideal TiFeOs2B2 composition, which revealed strong ferromagnetic interactions within and between the Fe3‐triangles. This discovery represents the first magnetically ordered Os‐rich TMB, thus it will help expand our knowledge of the role of Os in low‐dimensional magnetism of intermetallics and enable the design of such materials in the future.
Sleep‐disordered breathing in heart failure patients with different etiologies
Authors: Wang Tao , Yu Fu‐Chao , Wei Qin , Xu Xuan , Xie Liang , Ding Ning , Tong Jia‐Yi
Published: May 2022

Background

The prevalence of sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB) is closely related to the severity of heart failure (HF), and the severity of HF is different in patients with HF of different etiologies.

Hypothesis: This study aimed to explore the prevalence of SDB in patients with HFof different etiologies.

Methods

Hospitalized HF patients were consecutively enrolled. All patients underwent portable overnight cardiorespiratory polygraphy. Patients were divided into five groups according to the etiology of HF: ischemic, hypertensive, myocardial, valvular, and arrhythmic. The prevalence of SDB and clinical data was compared among the five groups.

Results

In total, 248 patients were enrolled in this study. The prevalence of SDB in HF was 70.6%, with the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) at 47.6% and central sleep apnea (CSA) at 23.0%. Patients were divided into five groups: ischemic, hypertensive, myocardial, valvular, and arrhythmic. The prevalence of SDB among the five groups was 75.3%, 81.4%, 77.8%, 51.9%, and 58.5% (p = .014), respectively. The prevalence of OSA among the five groups was 42.7%, 72.1%, 36.1%, 37.0%, and 49.1% (p = .009), whereas the CSA was 32.6%, 9.3%, 41.7%, 14.8%, and 9.4% (p < .001), respectively.

Conclusions

SDB is common in HF patients. The prevalence and types of SDB varied in HF with different etiologies, which may be related to the different severities of HF. SDB was highly prevalent in patients with ischemic, hypertensive, and myocardial HF. Hypertensive HF patients were mainly complicated with OSA, while myocardial HF patients were mainly complicated with CSA. Both conditions were highly prevalent in ischemic HF patients. The prevalence of SDB was relatively low in valvular and arrhythmic HF patients, and OSA was the main type.
Critical impact of radiotherapy protocol compliance and quality in the treatment of retroperitoneal sarcomas: Results from the EORTC 62092‐22092 STRASS trial
Authors: Haas Rick , Stelmes Jean‐Jacques , Zaffaroni Facundo , Sauvé Nicolas , Clementel Enrico , Bar‐Deroma Raquel , Le Péchoux Cécile , Litière Saskia , Marreaud Sandrine , Alyamani Najlaa , Andratschke Nicolaus H. J. , Sangalli Claudia , Chung Peter W. , Miah Aisha , Hurkmans Coen , Gronchi Alessandro , Bovée Judith V. M. G. , Gelderblom Hans , Kasper Bernd , Weber Damien Charles , Bonvalot Sylvie
Published: May 2022

Background

The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer 22092‐62092 STRASS trial failed to demonstrate the superiority of neoadjuvant radiotherapy (RT) over surgery alone in patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma. Therefore, an RT quality‐assurance program was added to the study protocol to detect and correct RT deviations. The authors report results from the trial RT quality‐assurance program and its potential effect on patient outcomes.

Methods

To evaluate the effect of RT compliance on survival outcomes, a composite end point was created. It combined the information related to planning target volume coverage, target delineation, total dose received, and overall treatment time into 2 groups: non–RT‐compliant (NRC) for patients who had unacceptable deviation(s) in any of the previous categories and RT‐compliant (RC) otherwise. Abdominal recurrence‐free survival (ARFS) and overall survival were compared between the 2 groups using a Cox proportional hazard model adjusted for known prognostic factors.

Results

Thirty‐six of 125 patients (28.8%) were classified as NRC, and the remaining 89 patients (71.2%) were classified as RC. The 3‐year ARFS rate was 66.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 55.8%‐75.7%) and 49.8% (95% CI, 32.7%‐64.8%) for the RC and NRC groups, respectively (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.25‐4.32; P = .008). Local recurrence after macroscopic complete resection occurred in 13 of 89 patients (14.6%) versus 2 of 36 patients (5.6%) in the RC and NRC groups, respectively.

Conclusions

The current analysis suggests a significant benefit in terms of ARFS in favor of the RC group. This association did not translate into less local relapses after complete resection in the RC group. Multidisciplinary collaboration and review of cases are critical to avoid geographic misses, especially for rare tumors like retroperitoneal sarcoma.
Is quality related to quantity: Interpreting the results of STRASS in the context of noncompliant radiotherapy
Authors: Bishop Andrew J. , Roland Christina L.
Published: May 2022

The role of radiation therapy in the multimodality treatment of retroperitoneal sarcoma is evolving. In this edition of Cancer, Haas et al reported that nearly 35% of the radiotherapy plans in the investigative arm of the STRASS trial were noncompliant, emphasizing the importance of radiotherapy quality‐assurance programs.
ARmed question answering system
Authors: Fehri Hela , Dardour Sondes , Haddar Kais
Published: May 2022

Question answering, retrieving an exact answer to a question posed in natural language, is an issue which has widely been studied in the open domain over the last decades. This, however, remains a real challenge in the medical domain as most existing systems only support a limited amount of question and answer types. The problem with proposed methods for Arabic language in the medical domain is that there is often a conflict between the extracted answer and user's requirements. This conflict is related to ambiguity. Nevertheless, the method we propose has successfully tackled this problem. Thus, in this article, we introduce ARmed, a system for automatically answering medical questions for Arabic language. ARmed consists of corpora study, pre‐processing, question analysis, documents/passages retrieval, and answer extraction. Compared with the previous studies, ARmed has the potential to handle a large number of questions and answer types. The experimental results show that ARmed achieves interesting results.
New Luminescent Lanthanide Tetrakis‐Complexes NEt4[LnL4] Based on Dimethyl‐N‐Benzoylamidophosphate
Authors: Kariaka Nataliia S. , Trush Victor A. , Dyakonenko Viktoriya V. , Shishkina Svitlana V. , Smola Sergii S. , Rusakova Nataliia V. , Sliva Tetiana Y. , Gawryszewska Paula , Carneiro Neto Albano N. , Malta Oscar L. , Amirkhanov Vladimir M.
Published: May 2022

New lanthanide dimethyl‐N‐benzoylamidophosphate (HL) based tetrakis‐complexes NEt4[LnL4] (Ln3+=La, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy) are reported. The complexes are characterized by means of NMR, IR, absorption, and luminescent spectroscopy as well as by elemental, X‐Ray, and thermal gravimetric analyses. The phenyl groups of the four ligands of the complex anion are directed towards one side, while the methoxy groups are directed in the opposite side, which makes the complexes under consideration structurally similar to calixarenes. The effect of changing the alkali metal counterion to the organic cation NEt4+ on the structure and properties of the tetrakis‐complex [LnL4]‐ is analyzed. The complexes exhibit bright characteristic for respective lanthanides luminescence. Rather high intensity of the band of 5D0→7F4 transition, observed in the luminescence spectrum of NEt4[EuL4], is discussed based on theoretical calculations.
Depicting the role of cross‐cultural legitimacy for responsible innovation in Asian‐Pacific business models: A dialectical systems view of Yin‐Yang harmony
Authors: Chin Tachia , Caputo Francesco , Shi Yi , Calabrese Mario , Aouina‐Mejri Chiraz , Papa Armando
Published: May 2022

Recognizing the key role of innovation in ensuring the definition of managerial and organizational model able to support companies in facing the multiple challenges of sustainable development, the paper focuses on the domain of Responsible innovation (RI) with the aim to depict the role of cross‐cultural legitimacy for RI in Asian‐Pacific business models. Adopting the interpretative lens provided by Dialectical Systems View, the Yin‐Yang dichotomy is discussed for depicting the relationships among focal firms and stakeholders within in Asian‐Pacific cross‐cultural models. Hypotheses are tested via constructed stepwise regression models using secondary data related to a sample of large Chinese MNEs listed in the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges over the period from 2009 to 2018. The research shows the multiple influences that cultural legitimacy has in influencing RI and firm performance in the Asian‐Pacific cross‐cultural business models. Thanks to the study, the current debate about the role of innovation in supporting the definition of sustainable‐based business models is enriched through the definition of cross‐cultural legitimacy as key driver for RI in Asian‐Pacific business models. Thanks to the reflections herein, RI is definitely approached as a holistic domain whose understanding requires to researchers and practioners to overcome traditional business “boundaries.”
Controlled Supramolecular Assembly of Gold (III) Amphiphiles in Aqueous Media
Authors: Jiang Jia‐Jun , Chau Anson Kwok‐Hei , Wong Man‐Kin , Leung Franco King‐Chi
Published: May 2022

Supramolecular assemblies of gold complex‐based amphiphiles in aqueous media are highly structural sensitive to external environments, providing an attractive prospect for its application in soft functional materials. Notably, the development of a supramolecular assembly transformation of gold (III) amphiphiles directly controlled by counterion exchange is of fundamental importance for exerting the full potential of dynamic supramolecular assembly by external stimuli. Here we present a reversible supramolecular assembly of gold (III) amphiphiles controlled by counterions in aqueous media and their co‐assembly with gold nanoparticles.
Radical Deoxyfunctionalisation Strategies**
Authors: Anwar Khadijah , Merkens Kay , Aguilar Troyano Francisco José , Gómez‐Suárez Adrián
Published: May 2022

Due to their abundance and readily available synthesis, alcohols provide ideal handles for the selective derivatisation of organic molecules. Radical chemistry offers versatile strategies for the conversion of Csp3−O bonds into a wide range of Csp3−C, Csp3−H, or Csp3−heteroatom bonds. In these reactions, alcohols are readily derivatised with an activator group which can undergo facile mesolysis to generate a primary, secondary, or tertiary open‐shell species that can engage in further transformations. These strategies are particularly effective at overcoming steric limitations associated with nucleophilic substitution pathways. Despite their potential, the use of radical deoxyfunctionalisation reactions as a general strategy for the synthesis of useful and complex molecules remains underutilised. In this Review, we highlight recent advancements in this exciting field in which photocatalysis, transition metal catalysis or electrochemistry are used to initiate the radical processes.
A new method for operating point free power system transient stability situational awareness based on single machine equivalent approach
Authors: Batchu Sreenadh , Teeparthi Kiran
Published: May 2022

Transient stability assessment is an essential element for situational awareness and decision making process of a power system operator in maintaining the secure operation. Continuous efforts have been made for devising methods to assess the transient stability. However, the existing methods have dependency on pre‐fault operating condition. This article aims to report a new method, towards deriving contingency wise operating point free transient stability assessment. The method is based on single machine equivalent (SIME) approach and has two phases (a) off line tuning (b) online application. In offline tuning phase each plausible contingency is characterized by an operating point free parameter called mean critical return angle over the specified operating region. In online application phase, transient stability for a given plausible contingency is predicted using SIME approach. Two new severity indices namely stable severity index and unstable severity index are proposed and evaluated for assessing the degree of stability and instability. Further, these indices are used in contingency screening. The proposed method is tested on 3‐machine 9‐bus system and, 10‐machine 39‐bus system. Results shows that the proposed method is simple and can aid the existing methods in providing reliable transient stability situational awareness to the system operator.
Development, verification, and validation of comprehensive acoustic fluid‐structure interaction capabilities in an open‐source computational platform
Authors: Dhulipala Somayajulu L. N. , Bolisetti Chandrakanth , Munday Lynn B. , Hoffman William M. , Yu Ching‐Ching , Mir Faizan Ul Haq , Kong Fande , Lindsay Alexander D. , Whittaker Andrew S.
Published: May 2022

The acoustic fluid‐structure interaction (FSI) formulation is a practical numerical approach for the seismic analysis of fluid‐filled tanks. However, there are no verification and validation studies reported in the literature that demonstrate the ability of an acoustic FSI numerical model to predict responses important to structural and mechanical design for intense translational and rotational earthquake inputs. Herein, an acoustic FSI formulation is implemented in the open‐source Multiphysics Object‐Oriented Simulation Environment (MOOSE), and is formally verified and validated using analytical solutions and code‐to‐code verification, and experimental data, respectively. The analytical solutions are for small amplitude, unidirectional seismic inputs. The code‐to‐code verification utilizes a previously verified and validated Arbitrary Lagrangian‐Eulerian (ALE) numerical model in the commercial finite element code LS‐DYNA. The validation studies utilize a comprehensive data set assembled from results of 3D earthquake‐simulator tests of a fluid‐filled vessel. The acoustic numerical model in MOOSE is verified and validated for hydrodynamic pressures and support reactions except for cases that involve significant convective response. For small amplitude inputs, numerically predicted wave heights match those of the analytical solutions. The numerical model is not verified and validated for wave height calculations under intense 3D seismic inputs. The run times for the acoustic FSI simulations in MOOSE are an order of magnitude, or more, shorter than for the corresponding ALE simulations in LS‐DYNA. The utility of the MOOSE acoustic FSI implementation is demonstrated by seismic analysis of a building equipped with a fluid‐filled, advanced nuclear reactor.
The role of astrocyte structural plasticity in regulating neural circuit function and behavior
Authors: Lawal Oluwadamilola , Ulloa Severino Francesco Paolo , Eroglu Cagla
Published: May 2022

Brain circuits undergo substantial structural changes during development, driven by the formation, stabilization, and elimination of synapses. Synaptic connections continue to undergo experience‐dependent structural rearrangements throughout life, which are postulated to underlie learning and memory. Astrocytes, a major glial cell type in the brain, are physically in contact with synaptic circuits through their structural ensheathment of synapses. Astrocytes strongly contribute to the remodeling of synaptic structures in healthy and diseased central nervous systems by regulating synaptic connectivity and behaviors. However, whether structural plasticity of astrocytes is involved in their critical functions at the synapse is unknown. This review will discuss the emerging evidence linking astrocytic structural plasticity to synaptic circuit remodeling and regulation of behaviors. Moreover, we will survey possible molecular and cellular mechanisms regulating the structural plasticity of astrocytes and their non‐cell‐autonomous effects on neuronal plasticity. Finally, we will discuss how astrocyte morphological changes in different physiological states and disease conditions contribute to neuronal circuit function and dysfunction.
Patterns of kidney dysfunction in acute‐on‐chronic liver failure: Relationship with kidney and patients’ outcome
Authors: Napoleone Laura , Solé Cristina , Juanola Adrià , Ma Ann T. , Carol Marta , Pérez‐Guasch Martina , Rubio Ana‐Belén , Cervera Marta , Avitabile Emma , Bassegoda Octavi , Gratacós‐Ginès Jordi , Morales‐Ruiz Manuel , Fabrellas Núria , Graupera Isabel , Pose Elisa , Crespo Gonzalo , Solà Elsa , Ginès Pere
Published: May 2022

Impairment of kidney function is common in acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF). Patterns of kidney dysfunction and their impact on kidney and patient outcomes are ill‐defined. Aims of the current study were to investigate patterns of kidney dysfunction and their impact on kidney and patient outcomes in patients with acute decompensation (AD) of cirrhosis, with or without ACLF. This prospective study includes 639 admissions for AD (232 with ACLF; 407 without) in 518 patients. Data were collected at admission and during hospitalization, and patients were followed up for 3 months. Urine samples were analyzed for kidney biomarkers. Most patients with ACLF (92%) had associated acute kidney injury (AKI), in most cases without previous chronic kidney disease (CKD), whereas some had AKI‐on‐CKD (70% and 22%, respectively). Prevalence of AKI in patients without ACLF was 35% (p < 0.001 vs. ACLF). Frequency of CKD alone was low and similar in both groups (4% and 3%, respectively); only a few patients with ACLF (4%) had no kidney dysfunction. AKI in ACLF was associated with poor kidney and patient outcomes compared with no ACLF (AKI resolution: 54% vs. 89%; 3‐month survival: 51% vs. 86%, respectively; p < 0.001 for both). Independent predictive factors of 3‐month survival were Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease–Sodium score, ACLF status, and urine neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin (NGAL). AKI is almost universal in patients with ACLF, sometimes associated with CKD, whereas CKD alone is uncommon. Prognosis of AKI depends on ACLF status. AKI without ACLF has good prognosis. Best predictors of 3‐month survival are MELD‐Na, ACLF status, and urine NGAL.
Changing associations between socioeconomic status and self‐reported discrimination from the 1990s to the 2010s in the United States
Authors: Jokela Markus , Fuller‐Rowell Thomas E.
Published: May 2022

We examined whether prevalence of social class discrimination—and its association with psychological distress—has changed between 1990s and 2010s in the United States. Data were from the original Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study with data collections in 1995–1996 (n = 2931) and 2004–2005 (n = 1708), and the new MIDUS Refresher sample from 2011 to 2014 (n = 2543). Socioeconomic status (SES) became more strongly associated with self‐rated discrimination over time, with individuals with the lowest SES experiencing more discrimination (B = 0.75, p < .001) and those with the highest SES less discrimination (B = 0.36, p < .001) over time: at baseline, the difference in self‐rated discrimination between the highest and lowest SES groups was 15.3% versus 10.8% (4.7% point difference). This difference increased to 20.0% versus 7.4% in the last study wave (12.6% point difference). Association between self‐reported discrimination and psychological distress strengthened over time, but the associations between socioeconomic indicators and distress did not change. The results suggest that people with low SES had higher risk of encountering unfair and disrespectful treatment in the 2010s compared to the 1990s.
Japanese giant benign prostatic hyperplasia: Sibling cases
Authors: Ohyama Takehiro , Endo Fumiyasu , Shimbo Masaki , Hattori Kazunori
Published: May 2022

Introduction

The pathophysiology of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) remains incompletely understood but is likely multifactorial. Inflammation and metabolic factors may increase the risk of BPH. Several studies have evaluated the possible roles played by genetic factors. Here, we describe two cases of suspected familial BPH.

Case presentations

We report the cases of two brothers, aged 77 and 69 years, with giant BPH. As both exhibited urinary retention, we performed Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) and obtained tissue samples weighing 276 g and 153 g, respectively. The postoperative courses were good.

Conclusion

We experienced two cases of sibling BPH with volumes exceeding 200 mL and successfully treated them with HoLEP.