bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional redundancy of the premotor network in hemispherotomy patients
Authors: Prillwitz Conrad C. , David Bastian , Schlaug Gottfried , Deller Thomas , Schramm Johannes , Lindenberg Robert , Hattingen Elke , Weber Bernd , Surges Rainer , Elger Christian E. , Rüber Theodor
Published: August 2021

Objective

Using multimodal imaging, we tested the hypothesis that patients after hemispherotomy recruit non‐primary motor areas and non‐pyramidal descending motor fibers to restore motor function of the impaired limb.

Methods

Functional and structural MRI data were acquired in a group of 25 patients who had undergone hemispherotomy and in a matched group of healthy controls. Patients’ motor impairment was measured using the Fugl‐Meyer Motor Assessment. Cortical areas governing upper extremity motor‐control were identified by task‐based functional MRI. The resulting areas were used as nodes for functional and structural connectivity analyses.

Results

In hemispherotomy patients, movement of the impaired upper extremity was associated to widespread activation of non‐primary premotor areas, whereas movement of the unimpaired one and of the control group related to activations prevalently located in the primary motor cortex (all p ≤ 0.05, FWE‐corrected). Non‐pyramidal tracts originating in premotor/supplementary motor areas and descending through the pontine tegmentum showed relatively higher structural connectivity in patients (p < 0.001, FWE‐corrected). Significant correlations between structural connectivity and motor impairment were found for non‐pyramidal (p = 0.023, FWE‐corrected), but not for pyramidal connections.

Interpretation

A premotor/supplementary motor network and non‐pyramidal fibers seem to mediate motor function in patients after hemispherotomy. In case of hemispheric lesion, the homologous regions in the contralesional hemisphere may not compensate the resulting motor deficit, but the functionally redundant premotor network.
Dendrite‐Free Reverse Lithium Deposition Induced by Ion Rectification Layer toward Superior Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Lin Liang , Liu Fang , Yan Xiaolin , Chen Qiulin , Zhuang Yanping , Zheng Hongfei , Lin Jie , Wang Laisen , Han Lianhuan , Wei Qiulong , Xie Qingshui , Peng Dong‐Liang
Published: August 2021

Considerable endeavors are developed to suppress lithium (Li) dendrites and improve the cycling stability of Li metal batteries in order to promote their commercial application. Herein, continuous zinc (Zn) nanoparticles‐assembled film with homogenous nanopores is proposed as a modified layer for separator via a scalable method. The in situ formed LiZn alloy film during initial Li plating can serve as a Li+ ion rectification and lithiophilic layer to regulate the nucleation and reverse deposition of Li. When applied in Li|LiFePO4 full cells with traditional carbonate‐based electrolyte, the modified separator enables outstanding cycling stability of up to 350 cycles without capacity loss at a large rate of 5 C (3.4 mA cm−2) and a remarkable reversible capacity of 144 mAh g−1 after 120 cycles at a commercial mass loading as high as 19.72 mg cm−2. The excellent electrochemical performances are ascribed to the dendrite‐free reverse Li deposition induced by modified layer by means of its lithiophilic property for regulating homogeneous Li nucleation on the separator as well as its well‐distributed nanopores for homogenizing Li+ ion flux and enhancing electrolyte wetting.
A Mannosylated, PEGylated Albumin as a Drug Delivery System for the Treatment of Cancer Stroma Cells
Authors: Mizuta Yuki , Maeda Hitoshi , Ishima Yu , Minayoshi Yuki , Ichimizu Shota , Kinoshita Ryo , Fujita Issei , Kai Takuma , Hirata Kenshiro , Nakamura Teruya , Saruwatari Junji , Arima Hidetoshi , Watanabe Hiroshi , Otagiri Masaki , Maruyama Toru
Published: August 2021

Mannose receptors that are expressed on macrophages and fibroblasts in cancer stroma are promising therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. Albumin can be used as a drug carrier in chemotherapeutics due to its accumulation in the tumor tissue by the enhanced permeability and retention effects. A mannosylated albumin was recently developed as a new drug carrier targeting cells that express mannose receptors such as macrophages and fibroblasts in cancer stroma. The mannosylated albumin is specifically distributed to hepatic macrophages in vivo, leading to an extremely short residence time in the blood. Here, a dual‐modified albumin, i.e., mannosylated and polyethylene glycosylated (PEGylated) is reported, to improve its blood circulating time and stromal cell targeting. The product efficiently delivers paclitaxel to stromal cells in a mouse melanoma model, thus resulting in the disruption of stromal cells and suppressed tumor growth, which is seven times stronger than that for PEGylated albumin. The findings suggest that the dual‐modified albumin has the potential to provide maximal therapeutic efficacies of chemotherapeutics for the treatment of intractable cancer.
Strong Interlayer Transition in Few‐Layer InSe/PdSe2 van der Waals Heterostructure for Near‐Infrared Photodetection
Authors: Ahmad Waqas , Liu Jidong , Jiang Jizhou , Hao Qiaoyan , Wu Di , Ke Yuxuan , Gan Haibo , Laxmi Vijay , Ouyang Zhengbiao , Ouyang Fangping , Wang Zhuo , Liu Fei , Qi Dianyu , Zhang Wenjing
Published: August 2021

Near infrared (NIR) photodetectors based on 2D materials are widely studied for their potential application in next generation sensing, thermal imaging, and optical communication. Construction of van der Waals (vdWs) heterostructure provides a tremendous degree of freedom to combine and extend the features of 2D materials, opening up new functionalities on photonic and optoelectronic devices. Herein, a type‐II InSe/PdSe2 vdWs heterostructure with strong interlayer transition for NIR photodetection is demonstrated. Strong interlayer transition between InSe and PdSe2 is predicted via density functional theory calculation and confirmed by photoluminance spectroscopy and Kelvin probe force microscopy. The heterostructure exhibits highly sensitive photodetection in NIR region up to 1650 nm. The photoresponsivity, detectivity, and external quantum efficiency at this wavelength respectively reaches up to 58.8 A W−1, 1 × 1010 Jones, and 4660%. The results suggest that the construction of vdWs heterostructure with strong interlayer transition is a promising strategy for infrared photodetection, and this work paves the way to developing high‐performance optoelectronic devices based on 2D vdWs heterostructures.
Single Atom‐Modified Hybrid Transition Metal Carbides as Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Catalysts
Authors: Gu Yitao , Wei Bo , Legut Dominik , Fu Zhongheng , Du Shiyu , Zhang Haijun , Francisco Joseph S. , Zhang Ruifeng
Published: August 2021

2D transition metal carbides and nitrides (MXenes) are promising hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalysts owing to their metallic conductivity, abundant surface active sites, and high specific surface area. The introduction of a single transition metal atom (TM) at the surface is a good way to improve the HER performance of MXenes. However, the effect of TM on MXenes in previous theoretical studies focused on pure functional groups, and ignored the hybrid‐functionalized ones, which are mostly observed in experiments. Herein, the HER performance of four O/F ratios stable hybrids MXenes, Ti2CTx (T = O, F), is explored. Ti2CO1.33F0.67 exhibits superior HER catalytic activity, comparable to that of platinum metals. Further combinatorial screening of ≈200 TMs based on Ti2CTx structures suggests that Rh, Ti, Ir, and Pt are optimal TM candidates that enhance the sensitivity to strain modulation and reduce the activation barrier for hydrogen generation. A descriptor ψ is used to quantify HER performance and reveals the role of the electron filling of TM to the antibonding orbitals. These findings propose feasible candidates with high HER performance through single‐atom modification for hybrid‐functional MXenes, and a useful descriptor to screen for MXenes with desirable catalytic properties.
Geometrically Reconfigurable, 2D, All‐Organic Photonic Integrated Circuits Made from Two Mechanically and Optically Dissimilar Crystals
Authors: Ravi Jada , Kumar Avulu Vinod , Karothu Durga Prasad , Annadhasan Mari , Naumov Panče , Chandrasekar Rajadurai
Published: August 2021

With the rising concerns about global cybersecurity, safe data transduction that would be impervious to cyber attacks necessitates an immediate shift from electron‐based to light‐based devices. Here, the construction of silicon‐free, all‐organic photonic integrated circuits by micromanipulation of organic crystals of two mechanically different materials with complementary optical properties, one of which is plastically bendable, is described. The resulting optical circuits are endowed with mechanical reconfiguration at two levels: first, the individual components can be processed into arbitrary shape before integration into the circuit, and second, the circuit itself is reconfigurable even after it is fabricated. The results do not only demonstrate the infinite structural variations in optical microstructures one can build by using organic crystals, but they also show that deformable light‐transducive organic crystals carry an untapped potential for lightweight all‐organic optical minicircuitry.
A Deep Eutectic Solvent‐Based Approach to Intravenous Formulation
Authors: Kim Jayoung , Shi Yujie , Kwon Christopher J. , Gao Yongsheng , Mitragotri Samir
Published: August 2021

Clinically viable formulations of hydrophobic drugs, for example, chemotherapeutics, require strategies to promote sufficient drug solubilization. However, such strategies often involve the use of organic solvents that pose a significant risk in generating toxic, unstable products. Using verteporfin as a drug, a deep eutectic solvent (DES)‐based approach to solvate drugs in a simple one‐step process is reported. Lipoidal DES composed of choline and oleate is used to successfully solvate verteporfin, resulting in stable sub‐100 nm nanocomplexes. The nanocomplexes successfully demonstrate efficient cellular uptake as well as retention, tumor spheroid penetration, and tumor accumulation in vivo. Systemic administration of the formulation significantly inhibits the primary tumor growth and its lung metastasis in the orthotopic 4T1 murine breast tumor model. Collectively, biocompatible DES shows great potential as a novel material for intravenous formulation of chemotherapeutics.
Spinal Cord Neuronal Network Formation in a 3D Printed Reinforced Matrix—A Model System to Study Disease Mechanisms
Authors: Fischhaber Natalie , Faber Jessica , Bakirci Ezgi , Dalton Paul D. , Budday Silvia , Villmann Carmen , Schaefer Natascha
Published: August 2021

3D cell cultures allow a better mimicry of the biological and mechanical environment of cells in vivo compared to 2D cultures. However, 3D cell cultures have been challenging for ultrasoft tissues such as the brain. The present study uses a microfiber reinforcement approach combining mouse primary spinal cord neurons in Matrigel with melt electrowritten (MEW) frames. Within these 3D constructs, neuronal network development is followed for 21 days in vitro. To evaluate neuronal development in 3D constructs, the maturation of inhibitory glycinergic synapses is analyzed using protein expression, the complex mechanical properties by assessing nonlinearity, conditioning, and stress relaxation, and calcium imaging as readouts. Following adaptation to the 3D matrix‐frame, mature inhibitory synapse formation is faster than in 2D demonstrated by a steep increase in glycine receptor expression between days 3 and 10. The 3D expression pattern of marker proteins at the inhibitory synapse and the mechanical properties resemble the situation in native spinal cord tissue. Moreover, 3D spinal cord neuronal networks exhibit intensive neuronal activity after 14 days in culture. The spinal cord cell culture model using ultrasoft matrix reinforced by MEW fibers provides a promising tool to study and understand biomechanical mechanisms in health and disease.
Out‐Of‐Plane Ordered Laminate Borides and Their 2D Ti‐Based Derivative from Chemical Exfoliation
Authors: Dahlqvist Martin , Zhou Jie , Persson Ingemar , Ahmed Bilal , Lu Jun , Halim Joseph , Tao Quanzheng , Palisaitis Justinas , Thörnberg Jimmy , Helmer Pernilla , Hultman Lars , Persson Per O. Å. , Rosen Johanna
Published: August 2021

Exploratory theoretical predictions in uncharted structural and compositional space are integral to materials discoveries. Inspired by M5SiB2 (T2) phases, the finding of a family of laminated quaternary metal borides, M′4M″SiB2, with out‐of‐plane chemical order is reported here. 11 chemically ordered phases as well as 40 solid solutions, introducing four elements previously not observed in these borides are predicted. The predictions are experimentally verified for Ti4MoSiB2, establishing Ti as part of the T2 boride compositional space. Chemical exfoliation of Ti4MoSiB2 and select removal of Si and MoB2 sub‐layers is validated by derivation of a 2D material, TiOxCly, of high yield and in the form of delaminated sheets. These sheets have an experimentally determined direct band gap of ≈4.1 eV, and display characteristics suitable for supercapacitor applications. The results take the concept of chemical exfoliation beyond currently available 2D materials, and expands the envelope of 3D and 2D candidates, and their applications.
Rational Design of a High Performance and Robust Solar Evaporator via 3D‐Printing Technology
Authors: Chaule Sourav , Hwang Jongha , Ha Seong‐Ji , Kang Jihun , Yoon Jong‐Chul , Jang Ji‐Hyun
Published: August 2021

Utilizing the broad‐band solar spectrum for sea water desalination is a promising method that can provide fresh water without sophisticated infrastructures. However, the solar‐to‐vapour efficiency has been limited due to the lack of a proper design for the evaporator to deal with either a large amount of heat loss or salt accumulation. Here, these issues are addressed via two cost‐effective approaches: I) a rational design of a concave shaped supporter by 3D‐printing that can promote the light harvesting capacity via multiple reflections on the surface; II) the use of a double layered photoabsorber composed of a hydrophilic bottom layer of a polydopamine (PDA) coated glass fiber (GF/C) and a hydrophobic upper layer of a carbonized poly(vinyl alcohol)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVA/PVP) hydrogel on the supporter, which provides competitive benefit for preventing deposition of salt while quickly pumping the water. The 3D‐printed solar evaporator can efficiently utilize solar energy (99%) with an evaporation rate of 1.60 kg m–2 h–1 and efficiency of 89% under 1 sun irradiation. The underlying reason for the high efficiency obtained is supported by the heat transfer mechanism. The 3D‐printed solar evaporator could provide cheap drinking water in remote areas, while maintaining stable performance for a long term.
Thermal Behaviors and Optical Parametric Oscillation in 4H‐Silicon Carbide Integrated Platforms
Authors: Shi Xiaodong , Fan Weichen , Hansen Anders Kragh , Chi Mingjun , Yi Ailun , Ou Xin , Rottwitt Karsten , Ou Haiyan
Published: August 2021

4H‐silicon carbide (SiC) integrated platforms have shown great potential in quantum and nonlinear photonics. However, the thermal properties of 4H‐SiC waveguides are still unknown, even though thermo‐optic effects can play an important role in fundamental measurements and practical applications. Herein, the thermo‐optic effects in a 4H‐SiC microring resonator are comprehensively studied, by means of both temperature tuning and self‐heating. The thermo‐optic coefficient and the ratio between the thermal absorption and the thermal diffusion of 4H‐SiC are quantitatively measured to be and , respectively. Considering the acquired thermal properties, Kerr‐nonlinearity‐based dual‐pump optical parametric oscillation (OPO) is experimentally achieved, and thus, it is demonstrated that broadband solitons can feasibly be generated through thermal tuning of 4H‐SiC‐on‐insulator (SiCOI) microring resonators.
Surface Design for Antibacterial Materials: From Fundamentals to Advanced Strategies
Authors: Li Wenlong , Thian Eng San , Wang Miao , Wang Zuyong , Ren Lei
Published: August 2021

Healthcare‐acquired infections as well as increasing antimicrobial resistance have become an urgent global challenge, thus smart alternative solutions are needed to tackle bacterial infections. Antibacterial materials in biomedical applications and hospital hygiene have attracted great interest, in particular, the emergence of surface design strategies offer an effective alternative to antibiotics, thereby preventing the possible development of bacterial resistance. In this review, recent progress on advanced surface modifications to prevent bacterial infections are addressed comprehensively, starting with the key factors against bacterial adhesion, followed by varying strategies that can inhibit biofilm formation effectively. Furthermore, “super antibacterial systems” through pre‐treatment defense and targeted bactericidal system, are proposed with increasing evidence of clinical potential. Finally, the advantages and future challenges of surface strategies to resist healthcare‐associated infections are discussed, with promising prospects of developing novel antimicrobial materials.
In Vitro Strategies to Vascularize 3D Physiologically Relevant Models
Authors: Dellaquila Alessandra , Le Bao Chau , Letourneur Didier , Simon‐Yarza Teresa
Published: August 2021

Vascularization of 3D models represents a major challenge of tissue engineering and a key prerequisite for their clinical and industrial application. The use of prevascularized models built from dedicated materials could solve some of the actual limitations, such as suboptimal integration of the bioconstructs within the host tissue, and would provide more in vivo‐like perfusable tissue and organ‐specific platforms. In the last decade, the fabrication of vascularized physiologically relevant 3D constructs has been attempted by numerous tissue engineering strategies, which are classified here in microfluidic technology, 3D coculture models, namely, spheroids and organoids, and biofabrication. In this review, the recent advancements in prevascularization techniques and the increasing use of natural and synthetic materials to build physiological organ‐specific models are discussed. Current drawbacks of each technology, future perspectives, and translation of vascularized tissue constructs toward clinics, pharmaceutical field, and industry are also presented. By combining complementary strategies, these models are envisioned to be successfully used for regenerative medicine and drug development in a near future.
Strain Sensing by Electrical Capacitive Variation: From Stretchable Materials to Electronic Interfaces
Authors: Nesser Hussein , Lubineau Gilles
Published: August 2021

Sensing the motion of objects and humans is essential for various applications, including human‐machine interfaces. Over the past few years, motion sensing has been extensively studied using capacitive strain sensors that can be utilized for wireless communications. The performance and functionality of capacitive strain sensors have been improved by achieving high sensitivity, large‐area sensing, ultra‐stretchability, and simplicity in design, measurement methods, and wireless integration. This review article highlights recent developments in capacitive strain sensors, including their characteristics and applications. First, the mechanisms and techniques employed to enhance the sensitivity of capacitive strain sensors are reviewed. Then, the notable features of this sensing strategy are highlighted, such as its ability to cover a wide area, properties of the required electronic interface, and sensor implementation inside a remote measurement system via an oscillating circuit. Therefore, a global review of the capacitive strain sensor that has been previously attempted can participate in developing an effective sensing method to meet the market need.
Manipulating Cu Nanoparticle Surface Oxidation States Tunes Catalytic Selectivity toward CH4 or C2+ Products in CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Fan Qikui , Zhang Xue , Ge Xiaohu , Bai Licheng , He Dongsheng , Qu Yunteng , Kong Chuncai , Bi Jinglei , Ding Dawei , Cao Yueqiang , Duan Xuezhi , Wang Jin , Yang Jian , Wu Yuen
Published: August 2021

Herein, a facile seed‐assisted strategy for preparing Cu nanoparticles (NPs) with polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) capping is presented. Compared to the Cu NPs with deficient PVP protection, the Cu NPs capped with a sufficient amount of PVP remain almost completely as Cu0 species. In contrast, the Cu NPs that are considered PVP deficient form an oxide structure in which the inner layer is face‐centered cubic Cu and the outer layer is, at least in part, made up of Cu2O species. Furthermore, to eliminate CO2 molecule diffusion and simultaneously obtain significant current density (200 mA cm−2) for industrial applications, a flow cell configuration is used for carbon dioxide electro reduction reaction (CO2RR) testing in 0.5 m potassium hydroxide solution. The Cu NPs with zero valence deliver Faradaic efficiencies (FEs) for the CO2 reduction to CH4 of over 70%, with a current density exceeding 200 mA cm−2, outstripping the performances of the majority of the reported CO2 electrocatalysts. Interestingly, the distribution of products catalyzed by the Cu NPs with +1 valence includes multicarbon products (C2+) such as C2H4, C2H5OH, CH3COOH, and C3H7OH with combined FEs of >80%, with current densities of up to 300 mA cm−2. The above results unambiguously establish that surface oxidation of Cu species plays a crucial role in the CO2RR.
A Multifunctional Dual‐Salt Localized High‐Concentration Electrolyte for Fast Dynamic High‐Voltage Lithium Battery in Wide Temperature Range
Authors: Lin Shuangshuang , Hua Haiming , Lai Pengbin , Zhao Jinbao
Published: August 2021

In this work, a multifunctional 2m dual‐salt sulfolane (TMS)/ethyl acetate (EA)‐based localized high‐concentration electrolyte (LHCE) with 10 wt% fluorocarbonate (FEC) is reported. Its incorporation into a Li||Ni0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 battery enables it to maintain nearly 89% capacity retention after 200 cycles with 1 C (200 mA g−1) charge/discharge current density charged to 4.6 V at 25 °C, showing good high‐voltage cyclic stability. A superior 10 C high‐rate performance with 65% (≈130 mAh g−1) specific capacity is also achieved. Furthermore, it still remains a liquid and exhibits good ionic conductivity even at −80 °C, and enables Li||Ni0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 batteries to deliver more than 50% of their room‐temperature capacity at −40 °C and remains stable for over 200 cycles under the same condition as before, realizing outstanding low‐temperature fast‐charging/discharging performance. It also demonstrates compatibility with both lithium metal and graphite anode. All in all, this work provides a new idea for the design of a fast‐dynamic, high‐voltage, and low‐temperature lithium battery electrolyte. The findings of this work indicate that LHCEs made directly from the optimal high‐concentration electrolyte are not the most suitable approach, combining the diluent with an additive is necessary and effective.
Nanocomposites: A New Opportunity for Developing Highly Active and Durable Bifunctional Air Electrodes for Reversible Protonic Ceramic Cells
Authors: Song Yufei , Liu Jiapeng , Wang Yuhao , Guan Daqin , Seong Arim , Liang Mingzhuang , Robson Matthew J. , Xiong Xiandong , Zhang Zhiqi , Kim Guntae , Shao Zongping , Ciucci Francesco
Published: August 2021

Reversible protonic ceramic cells (RePCCs) can facilitate the global transition to renewable energy sources by providing high efficiency, scalable, and fuel‐flexible energy generation and storage at the grid level. However, RePCC technology is limited by the lack of durable air electrode materials with high activity toward the oxygen reduction/evolution reaction and water formation/water‐splitting reaction. Herein, a novel nanocomposites concept for developing bifunctional RePCC electrodes with exceptional performance is reported. By harnessing the unique functionalities of nanoscale particles, nanocomposites can produce electrodes that simultaneously optimize reaction activity in both fuel cell/electrolysis operations. In this work, a nanocomposite electrode composed of tetragonal and Ruddlesden–Popper (RP) perovskite phases with a surface enriched by CeO2 and NiO nanoparticles is synthesized. Experiments and calculations identify that the RP phase promotes hydration and proton transfer, while NiO and CeO2 nanoparticles facilitate O2 surface exchange and O2‐ transfer from the surface to the major perovskite. This composite also ensures fast (H+/O2‐/e‐) triple‐conduction, thereby promoting oxygen reduction/evolution reaction activities. The as‐fabricated RePCC achieves an excellent peak power density of 531 mW cm‐2 and an electrolysis current of −364 mA cm‐2 at 1.3 V at 600 °C, while demonstrating exceptional reversible operation stability of 120 h at 550 °C.
Superionic Fluorinated Halide Solid Electrolytes for Highly Stable Li‐Metal in All‐Solid‐State Li Batteries
Authors: Yu Tianwei , Liang Jianwen , Luo Liang , Wang Limin , Zhao Feipeng , Xu Guofeng , Bai Xiangtao , Yang Rong , Zhao Shangqian , Wang Jiantao , Yu Jinqiu , Sun Xueliang
Published: August 2021

The halide solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) have received significant attention due to their high ionic conductivity and desirable compatibility with cathode materials. However, the reduction potential of the halide is still >0.6 V (versus Li/Li+). Reduction stability is still one of the challenges that need to be addressed. The fluorides have a wide electrochemical stability window due to the large electronegativity of F–. In contrast, Li3YBr6 (LYB) bromides have a narrower electrochemical window, although they have high lithium ion conductivity (>10–3 S cm–1). Herein, a fluorine doping strategy is employed. The interfacial stability between fluoride‐doped bromides and lithium metal is researched by cycling of lithium symmetric cells. Li plating/stripping can maintain over 1000 h at 0.75 mA cm–2. Interfacial protection mechanisms investigated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. A fluoride‐rich interfacial layer is formed in situ during the cycle, which achieves inhibition of the reduction. The Li metal treated fluorine doping of LYB exhibits significant potential in full cells. In fact, the induction of a stable in situ interfacial layer by fluorine doping can effectively improve the interfacial stability of bromides to lithium metal. Fluorine‐doped modification offers a new attempt to realize lithium metal applications in all‐solid‐state lithium batteries.
Scalable Fabrication of Black Cu‐Embedded Polydimethylsiloxane for Enhancing Triboelectric Nanogenerator Performance in Energy Harvesting and Self‐Powered Sensing
Authors: Yang Mengyan , Hua Tao
Published: August 2021

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are widely used in self‐powered electronic devices and tactile sensors. Herein, for the first time, the facile, low‐cost, and universal electroless deposition (ELD) technology is used to fabricate nonconductive black Cu to enhance the electrical output performance and sensitivities of TENG‐based tactile sensor. The output performance and sensitivities of the equipment are significantly improved by the introduction of black Cu nanoparticles (NPs) coated cellulose filter paper (CFP) into the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix. With an optimal load of black Cu NPs, the composite film‐based TENG produces the highest surface charge density exhibited by high sensitivities of 1.56 V N−1, 3.5 times of that obtained via PDMS‐based TENG under the same conditions. These properties facilitate the developed device to be competent at monitoring a kind of human movements, such as finger touching and bending. The proposed strategy not only demonstrates a promising potential of developing large‐scale practical self‐charging equipment and improving the output performance and sensitivities of TENG based tactile sensors but also provides a new perspective for applications in other fields.
Indications of Laparoscopic Repeat Liver Resection for Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kinoshita Masahiko , Kanazawa Akishige , Tanaka Shogo , Takemura Shigekazu , Amano Ryosuke , Kimura Kenjiro , Shinkawa Hiroji , Ohira Go , Nishio Kohei , Kubo Shoji
Published: August 2021

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the indications of laparoscopic repeat liver resection (LRLR) for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma from the viewpoint of its difficulty.

Methods

One hundred and one patients who underwent LRLR and 59 patients who underwent open repeat liver resection (ORLR) were included. The difficulty was classified according to the preoperative predictive factors for difficult LRLR, including an open approach during previous liver resection, history of two or more previous liver resections, history of previous major liver resection, tumor near the resected site of the previous liver resection, and intermediate or high difficulty with the difficulty scoring system. We compared the surgical outcomes between the LRLR and ORLR groups based on the difficulty class (low‐ or intermediate difficiulty class, 0 to 3 predictive factors; high difficiulty class, 4 or 5 factors).

Results

In the low‐ or intermediate difficiulty class, intraoperative blood loss and the proportion of patients with postoperative complications were significantly lower in LRLR than in ORLR, and the duration of the postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in LRLR than in ORLR. In the high difficiulty class, total operative time and operative time before starting hepatic parenchymal resection were significantly longer in LRLR than in ORLR, and there were no significant differences in other surgical outcomes between the two groups.

Conclusion

LRLR is recommended for patients in the low or intermediate difficulty class. However, LRLR does not have an advantage with longer operative time for patients in the high difficulty class compared with ORLR.
Development of a Youth Civic Engagement Program: Process and Pilot Testing with a Youth‐Partnered Research Team
Authors: Alegría Margarita , Alvarez Kiara , NeMoyer Amanda , Zhen‐Duan Jenny , Marsico Christine , O’Malley Isabel Shaheen , Mukthineni Ravali , Porteny Thalia , Herrera Carolina‐Nicole , Najarro Cermeño Jesse , Kingston Kyle , Sisay Emnet , Trickett Edison
Published: August 2021

Although research suggests neighborhood‐level factors influence youth well‐being, few studies include youth when creating interventions to address these factors. We describe our three‐step process of collaborating with youth in low‐income communities to develop an intervention focused on civic engagement as a means to address neighborhood‐level problems impacting their well‐being. In the first step, we analyzed qualitative interviews from a project in which youth shared perceptions about their neighborhoods (e.g., interpersonal relations with neighbors and institutions). Three major themes were identified: pride in youth’s communities, desire for change, and perceptions of power and responsibility. Based on these themes, we completed the second step: developing a civic engagement and leadership program, called LEAP, aimed at helping youth take an active role in addressing neighborhood problems. In the third step, we collaborated with youth who completed a pilot version of the civic program and provided feedback to finalize it for large‐scale testing. While discussing our process, we highlight the importance of including youth voices when developing programs that affect them. Furthermore, we note the need for more research exploring whether civic engagement serves as a mechanism for encouraging youth involvement in addressing neighborhood‐level health disparities and identifying potential psychological costs of such involvement.
Clinical risk factors and prognostic model for idiopathic inflammatory demyelinating diseases after haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with hematological malignancies
Authors: Deng Rui‐Xin , Wu Ye‐Jun , Xu Lan‐Ping , Liu Kai‐Yan , Huang Xiao‐Jun , Zhang Xiao‐Hui
Published: August 2021

Idiopathic inflammatory demyelinating diseases (IIDDs) of the central nervous system (CNS) are rare but serious neurological complications of haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo‐HSCT). However, the risk factors and a method to predict the prognosis of post‐transplantation CNS IIDDs are not available. This retrospective study first reviewed data from 4532 patients who received haplo‐HSCT during 2008–2019 in our center, and 184 patients (4.1%) with IIDDs after haplo‐HSCT were identified. Grades II to IV acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD) (p < 0.001) and chronic GVHD (cGVHD) (p = 0.009) were identified as risk factors for developing IIDDs after haplo‐HSCT. We then divided the 184 IIDD patients into a derivation cohort and validation cohort due to transplantation time to develop and validate a model for predicting the prognosis of IIDDs. In the multivariate analysis of the derivation cohort, four candidate predictors were entered into the final prognostic model: cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection, IgG synthesis (IgG‐syn) and spinal cord lesions. The prognostic model had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.864 (95% CI: 0.803–0.925) in the internal validation cohort and 0.871 (95% CI: 0.806–0.931) in the external validation cohort. The calibration plots showed a high agreement between the predicted and observed outcomes. Decision curve analysis indicated that IIDD patients could benefit from the clinical application of the prognostic model. The identification of IIDD patients after allo‐HSCT who have a poor prognosis might allow timely treatment and improve patient survival and outcomes.
In Vitro Studies of Squalene‐Gusperimus Nanoparticles in Islet‐Containing Alginate Microcapsules to Regulate the Immune Response in the Immediate Posttransplant Period
Authors: Navarro Chica Carlos E. , Qin Tian , de Haan Bart J. , Faas Marijke M. , Smink Alexandra M. , Sierra Ligia , López Betty L. , de Vos Paul
Published: August 2021

Grafting of microencapsulated pancreatic islets has been proposed as an alternative to exogenous insulin for the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Microencapsulated islets are protected from direct contact with immune cells and larger immune‐active molecules such as immunoglobulins. Unfortunately, many islet cells in the microcapsules are lost in the immediate period after transplantation due to an early host immune response limiting long‐term function of the graft. Gusperimus has shown to reduce the inflammatory responses to grafted encapsulated islets, but it cannot be appropriately used because it is easily hydrolyzed leading to loss of activity. To temporarily modulate the inflammatory response directly after implantation and stabilize gusperimus, squalene‐gusperimus nanoparticles (Sq‐GusNPs) are developed and incorporated in human islets‐containing alginate‐based microcapsules. A prolonged and continuous release of gusperimus is achieved. This offers an anti‐inflammatory microenvironment in the vicinity of the microcapsules and a reduction of cytokine secretion by lipopolysaccharides‐activated human macrophages. Release of gusperimus from Sq‐GusNPs does not affect the in vitro viability or function of human pancreatic islets. The data illustrate that incorporation of Sq‐GusNPs in alginate microcapsules offers an opportunity to temporarily modulate the immediate immune response after the grafting procedure of encapsulated islets cells and reduce loss of islet cells.
Pi‐Stacking Enhances Stability, Scalability of Formation, Control over Flexibility, and Circulation Time of Polymeric Filamentous Nanocarriers
Authors: Li Sophia , Bobbala Sharan , Vincent Michael P. , Modak Mallika , Liu Yugang , Scott Evan A.
Published: August 2021

Self‐assembling filomicelles (FMs) are of great interest to nanomedicine due to their structural flexibility, extensive systemic circulation time, and amenability to unique “cylinder‐to‐sphere” morphological transitions. However, current fabrication techniques for preparing FMs are highly variable and difficult to scale. Herein, it is demonstrated that tetrablock copolymers composed of poly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(propylene sulfide) (PEG‐b‐PPS) diblocks linked by a pi‐stacking perylene bisimide (PBI) moiety permit rapid, scalable, and facile assembly of FMs via the flash nanoprecipitation (FNP) method. Coassembling the tetrablocks and PEG‐b‐PPS diblocks at different molar ratios resulted in mixed PBI‐containing FMs (mPBI‐FM) with tunable length and flexibility. The flexibility of mPBI‐FM can be optimized to decrease uptake by macrophages in vivo, leading to increased circulation time versus (−)PBI‐FM without PBI tetrablocks after intravenous administration in mice. While PEG‐b‐PPS diblocks form FM within a narrow range of hydrophilic weight fractions, incorporation of pi‐stacking PBI groups expanded this range to increase favorability of FM assembly. Furthermore, the aggregation‐dependent fluorescence of PBI shifted during oxidation‐induced “cylinder‐to‐sphere” transitions of mPBI‐FM into micelles, resulting in a distinct emission wavelength for filamentous versus spherical nanostructures. Thus, incorporation of pi‐stacking allows for rapid, scalable assembly of FMs with tunable flexibility and stability for theranostic and nanomedicine applications.
Observability of Paramagnetic NMR Signals at over 10 000 ppm Chemical Shifts
Authors: Ott Jonas C. , Suturina Elizaveta A. , Kuprov Ilya , Nehrkorn Joscha , Schnegg Alexander , Enders Markus , Gade Lutz H.
Published: August 2021

We report an experimental observation of 31P NMR resonances shifted by over 10 000 ppm (meaning percent range, and a new record for solutions), and similar 1H chemical shifts, in an intermediate‐spin square planar ferrous complex [tBu(PNP)Fe‐H], where PNP is a carbazole‐based pincer ligand. Using a combination of electronic structure theory, nuclear magnetic resonance, magnetometry, and terahertz electron paramagnetic resonance, the influence of magnetic anisotropy and zero‐field splitting on the paramagnetic shift and relaxation enhancement is investigated. Detailed spin dynamics simulations indicate that, even with relatively slow electron spin relaxation (T1 ≈10−11 s), it remains possible to observe NMR signals of directly metal‐bonded atoms because pronounced rhombicity in the electron zero‐field splitting reduces nuclear paramagnetic relaxation enhancement.
Synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial activity investigations of ruthenium (II)–bipyridine complexes of ciprofloxacin derivatives
Authors: Al‐Wahaib Dhuha , El‐Dissouky Ali , Abrar Nada M. , Khalil Tarek E.
Published: August 2021

A series of ruthenium (II) complexes derived from the reaction between cis‐bis (2,2′‐bipyridine) dichloro ruthenium (II) dihydrate and enaminone derivatives of ciprofloxacin were synthesized and fully characterized using elemental analysis, cyclic voltammetry and different spectroscopic techniques (Uv–vis, FTIR, NMR, mass spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectrometry (XPS)). The isolated compounds were tested for their antibacterial and antifungal activities against gram‐negative and gram‐positive bacteria. The FTIR data revealed that ciprofloxacin derivatives act as bidentate ligands through the pyridone carbonyl and the carboxylate oxygen atom. The UV–visible data showed that the charge transfer CT band is blue shifted upon the coordination of the ciprofloxacin derivatives compared to the CT band of the parent complex. The XPS results revealed the characteristic peaks of Ru3p3/2and Ru3p1/2as well as Ru3d5/2and Ru3d3/2, which confirmed the assembly of the ruthenium (II) ciprofloxacin derivative complexes. Cyclic voltammetry data showed that the ciprofloxacin enaminone derivatives have a similar reduction potential for the Ru (II)/Ru (III) redox couple, and it revealed that the coordination of the ruthenium (II) ion altered the redox property of the ligands and enhanced their electron transfer rate. The electrochemical and the UV–visible results suggest that the ciprofloxacin derivative ligands are‐acceptor ligands. Further, the complexes showed higher antibacterial activities than the parent ciprofloxacin antibiotic and did not show antifungal activities among the tested fungi strains.
Effect of hydrophobically modified extracted starch nanocrystal on the properties of LDPE/ thermoplastic starch (TPS)/PE‐g‐MA nanocomposite
Authors: Moazzami Goudarzi Zahra , Behzad Tayebeh , Sheykhzadeh Aram
Published: August 2021

In the current study, the key role of incorporation of starch nanocrystals (SNC) and modified acetylated starch nanocrystals (ASNC) on mechanical, physical, and biological properties of low‐density polyethylene/thermoplastic starch/polyethylene‐grafted‐maleic anhydride (LDPE/TPS/PE‐g‐MA) blend was individually investigated. To achieve this, SNC was successfully extracted from waxy maize starch by chemical treatment utilizing acid hydrolysis. The results of solubility of the modified specimens showed that the hydrophilicity of ASNC was well reduced by dispersion enhancement in non‐polar solvents, which was also proved by increasing considerably the contact angle, after modification, 37.9° ± 3.5° to 59.9° ± 3.1°. It was noticed that the mechanical properties of the ASNC nanocomposites were significantly affected by the filler type and content. Furthermore, by adding 3.0 wt% ASNC (3ASNC), the ultimate tensile strength of the nanocomposite was considerably enhanced from 9.0 ± 0.1 to 12.0 ± 0.3 MPa; it may be due to homogeneous dispersion of the ASNC. Moreover, the water absorption capacity was remarkably enhanced from 0.1% for the pure polymer, low‐density polyethylene (LDPE), to 1.9% for modified nanocomposite (3.0 wt% ASNC) and 4.1% for unmodified nanocomposite (5 wt% SNC). In addition, the degradation rate of 3ASNC nanocomposite was improved by 1% compared with LDPE. In conclusion, LDPE/TPS/PE‐g‐MA nanocomposite reinforced by ASNC shows excellent potential as a promising candidate for polyethylene packaging applications, thanks to the combination of biodegradability and superior mechanical properties.
A Facile and In‐situ Methanol‐mediated Fabrication of Low Pd Loading, High‐efficiency and Size‐selectivity Pd@ZIF‐8 Hydrogenation Catalyst
Authors: Zhang Fengwei , Liu Mengmeng , Liu Qiang , Li Jingjing , Li Boyang , Dong Zhengping
Published: August 2021

In‐situ encapsulation of tiny and well‐dispersed Pd nanoparticles (Pd NPs) in zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) was firstly achieved using a one‐pot and facile methanol‐mediated growth approach, in which methanol served as both solvent and a mild reductant. The microstructure, morphology, crystallinity, porosity as well as evolution process of the catalysts were determined by TEM, XRD, N2 adsorption and UV‐vis spectra. Due to the complete encapsulation of such Pd NPs combined with ultrahigh surface area and uniform microporous structure of ZIF‐8, the resulting Pd@ZIF‐8‐60 min nanocomposite exhibited more superior catalytic activity for olefins hydrogenation with TOF of 7436 h−1 and excellent size selectivity than previously reported catalysts. Furthermore, the catalyst displays excellent recyclability for 1‐octene hydrogenation and without any loss of the Pd active species.
Puppets facilitate attention to social cues in children with ASD
Authors: Macari Suzanne , Chen Xinyuan , Brunissen Ludivine , Yhang Eukyung , Brennan‐Wydra Emma , Vernetti Angelina , Volkmar Fred , Chang Joseph , Chawarska Katarzyna
Published: August 2021

Diminished visual attention to faces of social partners represents one of the early characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here we examine if the introduction of puppets as social partners alters attention to speakers' faces in young children with ASD and typically developing (TD) controls. Children with ASD (N = 37; Mage = 49.44 months) and TD (N = 27; Mage = 40.66 months) viewed a video depicting a puppet and a human engaged in a conversation. Dwell time on these faces was analyzed as a function of group and speaker's identity. Unlike TD controls, the ASD group exhibited limited visual attention to and chance‐level visual preference for the human speaker. However, attention to and preference for the puppet speaker's face was greater than chance and comparable across the two groups. While there was a strong association between low human speaker preference and high autism severity, no association with autism severity was found for puppet speaker preference. Unlike humans, expressive and verbal puppets attracted the attention of children with ASD at levels comparable to that of TD controls. Considering that puppets can engage in reciprocal interactions and deliver simplified, salient social‐communicative cues, they may facilitate therapeutic efforts in children with ASD.

Lay Summary

While studies have shown support for therapeutic uses of robots with children with autism, other similar agents such as puppets remain to be explored. When shown a video of a conversation between a puppet and a person, young children with ASD paid as much attention to the puppet's face as typically‐developing (TD) children. Since puppets can engage in back‐and‐forth interactions and model social interactions and communication, they may play a promising role in therapeutic efforts for young children with ASD.
Muscle strength and executive function in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Ludyga Sebastian , Pühse Uwe , Gerber Markus , Mücke Manuel
Published: August 2021

The development of effective (non‐pharmacological) treatment approaches for executive dysfunction in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) requires evidence that factors influencing this domain can be modified by behavioral interventions. The present cross‐sectional study investigated the relative associations of ASD, muscle strength and body mass index with executive function and information processing among the Healthy Brain Network cohort. Patients with ASD (N = 174) and healthy peers (N = 202) aged 5 to 18 years completed cognitive tasks of the NIH toolbox (Pattern Comparison, Flanker, List Sorting, Card Sorting) to assess core components of executive function and information processing. Additionally, anthropometrics and muscle strength were collected from selected items (push‐ups, curl‐ups, trunk lift, and grip strength) of the Fitnessgram battery. Based on structural equation modeling, ASD was related to impaired muscle strength and executive function, when confounders (age, sex, pubertal status, and socioeconomic status) were accounted for. Muscle strength further showed independent contributions to information processing and executive function. This association was moderated by ASD, so that higher muscle strength was related to higher executive function in ASD patients only. The present findings provide a first indication that the promotion of muscle strength may have the potential to generally enhance information processing and to reduce ASD‐related executive dysfunction in children and adolescents.

Lay Summary

In comparison to healthy peers, children with ASD showed impairments in executive function and muscle strength. Moreover, higher muscle strength was independently associated with better executive function, but only in ASD patients. This is a first indication that the promotion of muscle strength, for example, by regular exercise, could contribute to a reduction of ASD‐related executive dysfunction.