bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Tax Revolt
Authors: Cohn Samuel
Published: September 2021

This chapter looks at state shrinking and tax cutting, describing how political change in capitalism would come to be dominated by a conservative middle class rather than a leftist working class. Why was there going to be a middle-class tax rebellion? The short answer is that most of the taxes under capitalism are paid by two groups: small businesses and rich individuals. Fortune 500 corporations and large banks pay very few taxes; this group can be called monopoly capital because they are entitled, fully legally, to a wide variety of exemptions that they make full use of. Meanwhile, the poor pay very few taxes because they simply do not have the money. Ultimately, small businesses, wealthy individuals, and the middle class are paying a disproportionately large amount of the expenses of the government while receiving a disproportionately small amount of government benefits. This makes those taxpayers resentful of government bureaucrats, welfare programs, and government waste.
Patriarchy Redux?
Authors: Cohn Samuel
Published: September 2021

This chapter identifies two primary mechanisms that could lead to antifeminist backlash. The first is declining male economic status. Globally, men are losing earning power due to deindustrialization in the Global North and rising unemployment in the Global South. Unemployed and underemployed men lose power within their families, particularly if the wife becomes the primary breadwinner. Men react to this loss of status by turning conservative and striving to reconstruct traditional gender roles. This leads to fights against reproductive rights and in favor of traditional religion. Male resentment from lost earning power also leads to domestic abuse and sexism on its own. It increases societal violence, which leads to sexual violence and male control of women. The chapter then looks at antifeminism in Poland, Yemen, Kenya, Central America, and Argentina.
Adam21 is dispensable for reproductive processes in mice
Authors: Chen Yinghong , Liu Chao , Shang Yongliang , Wang Liying , Li Wei , Li Guoping
Published: September 2021

Background

As a group of membrane-anchored proteins, the proteins containing a disintegrin and metalloprotease domain (ADAMs) control many biological processes, especially for male fertility. Mouse Adam21 was previously found to be specifically expressed in the somatic cells and germ cells of testes, but its functional role during spermatogenesis and male reproductive processes is still unknown.

Methods

Adam21-null mice were created using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Quantitative real-time PCR was used for analyzing of gene expression. Histological, cytological and immunofluorescence staining were performed to analyze the phenotypes of mouse testis and epididymis. Intracellular lipid droplets (LDs) were detected by Oil red O (ORO) staining and BODIPY staining. Fertility and sperm characteristics were also detected.

Results

Here, we successfully generated an Adam21 conventional knockout mouse model via CRISPR/Cas9 technology so that we can explore its potential role in male reproduction. We found that male mice lacking Adam21 have normal fertility without any detectable defects in spermatogenesis or sperm motility. Histological analysis of the seminiferous epithelium showed no obvious spermatogenesis difference between Adam21-null and wild-type mice. Cytological analysis revealed no detectable defects in meiotic progression, neither Sertoli cells nor Leydig cells displayed any defect compared with that of the control mice. All these results suggest that Adam21 might not be essential for male fertility in mice, and its potential function still needs further investigation.
MÃE SOLTEIRA NÃO. MÃE SOLO! CONSIDERAÇÕES SOBRE MATERNIDADE, CONJUGALIDADE E SOBRECARGA FEMININA
Authors: Borges Galvão Lize
Published: September 2021

Cuida-se de um estudo sobre as mães solo na sociedade contemporânea, levando em consideração a depreciação histórica dessas mulheres pelo simples fato de serem mães e não integrarem um relacionamento matrimonial. Além da discriminação em razão do estado civil, questões como a igualdade de salários e oportunidades de inserção e ascensão no mercado trabalho, bem como a tripla jornada e a sobrecarga feminina no que tange ao trabalho de cuidado com os(as) filhos(as) foram abordadas no presente estudo tendo como base recentes dados estatísticos.
The Mongolian Gerbil (
Meriones Unguiculatus
): Musculature
Authors: Leonel Ellen C. R. , Campos Silvana G. P. , Bedolo Carolina M. , Falleiros Luiz R. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: September 2021

The skeletal muscle tissue shows the typical mammalian features, i.e. long multinucleated fibers. Heart muscle cells have the same striated structure as the skeletal muscle but are usually mononucleated and branched. The connection between the heart muscle cells is characterized by intercalated disks. Smooth muscle does not show striations and is usually stimulated by the autonomous nervous system; these are part of the organs with involuntary contraction, such as intestines and vessels.
The Mongolian Gerbil (
Meriones Unguiculatus
): Skeletal System
Authors: Leonel Ellen C. R. , Campos Silvana G. P. , Bedolo Carolina M. , Falleiros Luiz R. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: September 2021

The knee joint and tracheal cartilage are documented here as adequate examples for skeletal tissue. In general, morphological aspects of gerbil's bones and cartilage are similar to other rodents, such as mice and rats. These connective tissues are mainly composed of collagen fibers and a cellularized tissue surrounded by periosteum or perichondrium.
The Mongolian Gerbil (
Meriones Unguiculatus
): Sensory Structures
Authors: Leonel Ellen C. R. , Campos Silvana G. P. , Bedolo Carolina M. , Falleiros Luiz R. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: September 2021

The sensory organs include the eyes, olfactory mucosa, taste buds, tactile receptors, and ears. Gerbils show large, black, and slightly bulging eyes as an adaptation for their nocturnal habits; in adult individuals, the eyes are spherical. The acoustic system is particularly remarkable in gerbils, with a well‐developed ear cavity.
The Mongolian Gerbil (
Meriones Unguiculatus
): Intestinal System
Authors: Leonel Ellen C. R. , Campos Silvana G. P. , Bedolo Carolina M. , Falleiros Luiz R. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: September 2021

The gastrointestinal tract of the Mongolian gerbil is similar to that of other rodents, i.e. it is monogastric, with a forestomach and a glandular stomach. The intestine has a well‐developed cecum with sacculations. The layers of the intestinal wall consist of the tunica mucosa with the lamina epithelialis mucosae, the lamina propria mucosae, and the lamina muscularis mucosae. The tela submucosa contains blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and Meissner's plexus. The tunica muscularis consists of an inner layer of circular musculature and an outer layer of longitudinal muscles. Externally, the tube of the gastrointestinal tract is covered by tunica serosa.
The Mongolian Gerbil (
Meriones Unguiculatus
): Excretory System
Authors: Leonel Ellen C. R. , Campos Silvana G. P. , Bedolo Carolina M. , Falleiros Luiz R. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: September 2021

The urinary system is composed of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. After blood filtration in the kidneys' glomeruli and concentration of the primary urine in the tubular system, the urine is collected by the ureters, stored in the bladder, and released through the urethra. In gerbils, naturally from arid regions, the well‐developed ascending Henle's loop is an important structure to ensure water reabsorption. Gerbils show a high ratio of long‐ to short‐loop nephrons. Ninety‐six percent of their nephrons are long loop, which allows them to efficiently concentrate urine.
The Mongolian Gerbil (
Meriones Unguiculatus
): Reproductive Organs
Authors: Leonel Ellen C. R. , Campos Silvana G. P. , Bedolo Carolina M. , Falleiros Luiz R. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: September 2021

The male reproductive tract includes the penis, testis, ducts, and accessory sex glands, while the female reproductive tract includes the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, uterus (and placenta), vagina, and accessory glands, e.g. periurethral glands (i.e. female prostate). In Mongolian gerbils, the female prostate is well developed and has been widely studied by some researchers.
Poecilia Mexicana
: Reproduction and Development
Authors: Torres‐Martínez Aarón , Hernández‐Franyutti Arlette , Contreras‐Sánchez Wilfrido M.
Published: September 2021

The cave molly
Poecilia mexicana
has marked sexual dimorphisms. Males have an inseminating organ termed gonopodium. Females possess a genital pad that has been suggested to release chemicals to attract males. In contrast to the surface‐dwelling ecotypes, the cave molly is characterized by reduced fecundity and increased offspring size. Fertilization and embryonic development occur inside the ovarian follicles, and therefore, ovulation never occurs. As embryonic development progresses, the follicular epithelium surrounding the embryo develops into a follicular placenta involved in maternal–fetal exchanges.
Galeus Melastomus
(Chondrichthyes): Integument
Authors: Porcu Cristina , Marongiu Martina F. , Follesa Maria C.
Published: September 2021

The integument of
Galeus melastomus
consists of the epidermis and a thick dermis in which the microscopic features do not change during the ontogenetic development. The epidermis consists of a monolayered stratum basale and a multilayered stratum spinosum. The dermis is represented by a layer system, which consists of the subepidermal stratum laxum and the deeper stratum compactum. An essential part of the integument is the placoid scales that are arranged in a regular pattern and consist of a backward‐pointing spine that gives shark skin its characteristic rough texture and a basal plate.
Galeus Melastomus
(Chondrichthyes): Gametes
Authors: Porcu Cristina , Marongiu Martina F. , Follesa Maria C.
Published: September 2021

Female and male gametes of
Galeus melastomus
are described. Ovarian follicles are located under the germinal epithelium supported by a basement membrane. All the oogenesis phases from primordial follicles to vitellogenic ones were observed through the entire maturity development. Males have a cystic mode of spermatogenesis during which the germ cell stage is housed in a highly structured manner. This shark revealed a diametric zonate arrangement of spermatocysts, and during its maturity development, all the spermatocyst phases from spermatogonia to spermatozoa have been observed.
Galeus Melastomus
(Chondrichthyes): Reproduction and Development
Authors: Porcu Cristina , Marongiu Martina F. , Follesa Maria C.
Published: September 2021

Galeus melastomus
is an oviparous species showing a multiple oviparity with the production of 12–18 vitellogenic yolky oocytes. Fertilization takes place in the oviducal gland which produces a structurally complex capsule known as the egg capsule that supports and protects first the fertilized egg and then the embryo development. The egg capsule has a rounded vase‐like shape and does not have tendrils. Females of
G. melastomus
can release 13–14 egg capsules per litter.
The Annual Diagnostic Prevalence of Ankylosing Spondylitis and Axial Spondyloarthritis in the United States Using Medicare and MarketScan Databases
Authors: Curtis Jeffrey R. , Winthrop Kevin , Bohn Rhonda L. , Suruki Robert , Siegel Sarah , Stark Jeffrey L. , Xie Fenglong , Yun Huifeng , Chen Lang , Deodhar Atul
Published: September 2021

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the diagnostic prevalence of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) in the United States and examine treatment patterns for these diseases.

Methods

This retrospective observational cohort study drew from 2006‐2014 data in the US Medicare Fee‐for‐Service and IBM MarketScan databases. AS and axSpA diagnoses were identified through International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision [ICD‐9] codes. Diagnostic prevalence (per 10,000 patients) was calculated as patients with AS and axSpA with full insurance coverage in each calendar year divided by the total patients with full insurance coverage in the same year. Two diagnosis definitions were used: definition 1 (D1), one or more relevant ICD‐9 codes from hospital claims or two or more relevant ICD‐9 codes from outpatient claims; definition 2 (D2), one or more codes from hospital/outpatient claims. Primary analyses assessed annual AS and axSpA prevalence (D1); sensitivity analyses assessed annual (D2) and 2‐year prevalence. Patterns in prevalence and treatment use were analyzed descriptively; no statistical tests were performed.

Results

An increase in AS prevalence (per 10,000 patients) was seen from 2006 to 2014 in primary analyses (Medicare: 2.12‐3.60; MarketScan: 0.85‐1.42) and sensitivity analyses. A similar trend occurred for axSpA (Medicare: 4.39‐6.52; MarketScan: 1.33‐2.21). For Medicare, the proportion of patients with AS (D1) using tumor necrosis factor α inhibitors (TNFis), conventional synthetic antirheumatic drugs (csARDs), nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and glucocorticoids remained relatively stable; for MarketScan, TNFi‐treated patients increased (51.7% to 65.7%) and NSAID‐treated patients decreased (63.5% to 55.7%).

Conclusion

AS and axSpA prevalence may have increased in the United States between 2006 and 2014. Reasons are unknown, but this may be due to increased disease awareness, among other factors.
Fundamentals and Advances of Electrochromic Systems: A Review
Authors: Bayzi Isfahani Vahideh , Silva Maria Manuela
Published: September 2021

Electrochromic (EC) materials as one of the known types of smart materials have found many applications and therefore have recently been considered by many researchers and industries. Herein, after classifying these materials based on various properties such as chemical structure, optical properties, color, and applications explains how the EC‐based systems work. Also, by introducing the widely used analyses in this field along with the different parameters and properties derived from them, using different examples from previous research, discusses the principles and advances of EC. Guidelines for further investigations are outlined.
Research Progress of Metal Organic Frameworks/Carbon‐Based Composites for Microwave Absorption
Authors: Yang Wendong , Zhao Qianqi , Zhou Yao , Cui Zhilong , Liu Yuanjun
Published: September 2021

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) materials can be directly carbonized or combined with other materials to obtain porous carbons or composites loaded with metal/metal oxide and doped with nonmetals such as N, P, and B. The addition of dielectric metal oxide, magnetic metal particle, and nonmetallic element can enrich the loss mechanisms and bring abundant heterogeneous interfaces in the composite system, which can enhance the interfacial polarization and relaxation at the interface and increase the scattering of electromagnetic waves. Carbon materials derived from MOFs show excellent properties of high surface area, high porosity, adjustable pore size, high conductivity and stability, and their applications in microwave absorption have become a rapidly expanding research field. Herein, the mechanism and classification of microwave absorption materials are briefly discussed and the advantages of MOFs and carbon‐based materials in microwave absorption field are considered. The recent achievements of MOFs derived carbon‐based microwave absorption composites are summarized in detail, and the effects of different components and special microstructures are also analyzed. In addition, the current challenges and the research perspectives are also proposed.
Mechanical Stress Induces a Transient Suppression of Cytokine Secretion in Astrocytes Assessed at the Single‐Cell Level with a High‐Throughput Microfluidic Chip
Authors: Shao Xiaowei , Wang Chunhua , Wang Chao , Han Lei , Han Yunrui , Nižetić Dean , Zhang Yu , Han Lin
Published: September 2021

Brain cells are constantly subjected to mechanical signals. Astrocytes are the most abundant glial cells of the central nervous system (CNS), which display immunoreactivity and have been suggested as an emerging disease focus in the recent years. However, how mechanical signals regulate astrocyte immunoreactivity, and the cytokine release in particular, remains to be fully characterized. Here, human neural stem cells are used to induce astrocytes, from which the release of 15 types of cytokines are screened, and nine of them are detected using a protein microfluidic chip. When a gentle compressive force is applied, altered cell morphology and reinforced cytoskeleton are observed. The force induces a transient suppression of cytokine secretions including IL‐6, MCP‐1, and IL‐8 in the early astrocytes. Further, using a multiplexed single‐cell culture and protein detection microfluidic chip, the mechanical effects at a single‐cell level are analyzed, which validates a concerted downregulation by force on IL‐6 and MCP‐1 secretions in the cells releasing both factors. This work demonstrates an original attempt of employing the protein detection microfluidic chips in the assessment of mechanical regulation on the brain cells at a single‐cell resolution, offering novel approach and unique insights for the understanding of the CNS immune regulation.
A Liquid Metal Mediated Metallic Coating for Antimicrobial and Antiviral Fabrics
Authors: Kwon Ki Yoon , Cheeseman Samuel , Frias‐De‐Diego Alba , Hong Haeleen , Yang Jiayi , Jung Woojin , Yin Hong , Murdoch Billy J. , Scholle Frank , Crook Nathan , Crisci Elisa , Dickey Michael D. , Truong Vi Khanh , Kim Tae‐il
Published: September 2021

Fabrics are widely used in hospitals and many other settings for bedding, clothing, and face masks; however, microbial pathogens can survive on surfaces for a long time, leading to microbial transmission. Coatings of metallic particles on fabrics have been widely used to eradicate pathogens. However, current metal particle coating technologies encounter numerous issues such as nonuniformity, processing complexity, and poor adhesion. To overcome these issues, an easy‐to‐control and straightforward method is reported to coat a wide range of fabrics by using gallium liquid metal (LM) particles to facilitate the deposition of liquid metal copper alloy (LMCu) particles. Gallium particles coated on the fabric provide nucleation sites for forming LMCu particles at room temperature via galvanic replacement of Cu2+ ions. The LM helps promote strong adhesion of the particles to the fabric. The presence of the LMCu particles can eradicate over 99% of pathogens (including bacteria, fungi, and viruses) within 5 min, which is significantly more effective than control samples coated with only Cu. The coating remains effective over multiple usages and against contaminated droplets and aerosols, such as those encountered in facemasks. This facile coating method is promising for generating robust antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral fabrics and surfaces.
Photoswitchable Configuration of Nematic Liquid Crystal Droplets Embedded in a Honeycomb‐Patterned Film
Authors: Mukai Koji , Hara Mitsuo , Yabu Hiroshi , Nagano Shusaku , Seki Takahiro
Published: September 2021

Honeycomb‐patterned polymer films prepared by the breath figure method exhibit unique shape features. These films have potential in various applications, but functional materials are rarely embedded into the arrayed cavity. Here, a photoswitchable function of a compartmented nematic liquid crystal (NLC) in a honeycomb array is proposed. Surface segregation and liquid crystal self‐assembly processes cover curved honeycomb walls of polystyrene (PS) with a high‐density polymer brush of an azobenzene side chain liquid crystalline polymer (SCLCP), producing honeycomb polymer films with isolated cavities. Spherical confinement of the cavities with the SCLC brush provides a bipolar nematic director (planar anchoring), whereas UV light irradiation induces a radial configuration (homeotropic anchoring) of NLC droplets. Photoisomerization of azobenzene UV and visible light irradiation repeatedly induces a photoswitchable change between the bipolar and radial modes.
Integrated Bifunctional Oxygen Electrodes for Flexible Zinc–Air Batteries: From Electrode Designing to Wearable Energy Storage
Authors: Yang Xuhuan , Li Simeng , Ye Dewei , Kuang Jiaqi , Guo Shu , Zou Yueyuan , Cai Xin
Published: September 2021

The strong propulsion stem from flexible/wearable electronics has greatly stimulated the development of miniaturized and high‐performance rechargeable batteries with adaptable shape. Flexible zinc–air batteries (FZABs), which exhibit high theoretical energy density (1218 Wh kg−1), low cost, environmental benignancy, and admirable operational safety, have been widely recognized as one of the promising portable powers to serve future wearable electronics for ubiquitous application. During the past five years, the energy/power density and cycling stability of FZABs have gained significant improvement largely due to the rational construction of high‐efficiency bifunctional air electrodes. Herein, the recent progress of integrated binder‐free bifunctional oxygen electrodes is overviewed via elaborate in situ preparation and interface engineering for FZABs. In particular, fiber/cable‐type ZABs with unrivaled omnidirectional‐flexibility and unique knittability are highlighted in virtue of their enormous potential to realize wearable batteries and smart fabrics. From a practical point of view, the recently proposed rechargeable ZABs for integrated/hybridized devices or self‐powered energy systems are reviewed. Finally, the remained challenges and some insightful directions for the future development of high‐performance FZABs are illustrated in the pursuit of cost‐efficient portable powers and multifunctional flexible/wearable electronic devices.
A Self‐Powered Early Warning Glove with Integrated Elastic‐Arched Triboelectric Nanogenerator and Flexible Printed Circuit for Real‐Time Safety Protection
Authors: Zu Lulu , Liu Di , Shao Jiajia , Liu Yuan , Shu Sheng , Li Chengyu , Shi Xue , Chen Baodong , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: September 2021

A matched and self‐powered supply for a variety of wearable electronics remains a critical challenge. Here, a fully self‐powered early warning glove (SEWG) is developed via unique elastic‐arched triboelectric nanogenerator (EA‐TENG) and flexible printed circuit technology. The EA‐TENG generates electricity from a continuous touch lightly by hand or body, as a sustainable self‐powered source that can be utilized to complete one charging process by simply five times slapping. The SEWG has the advantage that can really deliver real‐time no‐contact electrostatic monitoring when no external power is supplied, and can effectively avoid the electric shock accident in 220/380 V electric maintenance work. Quantitative analysis of the mechanical and electronic characteristics of the SEWG demonstrated its advantages in terms of stability and reliability, with consistently well performance over more than 80,000 working cycles. It is anticipated that the special design of integrated self‐powered system could produce more implications in the field of wearable/flexible electronics and human‐machine interaction.
Lewis Acid Regulated Divergent Catalytic Reaction between Quinone Imine Ketals (QIKs) and 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds: Switchable Access to Multiple Products Including 2‐Aryl‐1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds, Indoles, and Benzofurans
Authors: Chen Xingyu , Lu Sixian , Deng Ping , Chang Xiaoqiang , Zhao Yifan , Ma Yue , Zhang Dong , Xia Fei , Yang Lan , Wang Jigang , Sun Peng
Published: September 2021

A catalytic Lewis acid regulated reaction between quinone imine ketals (QIKs) and 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds provides a divergent and tunable approach to a variety of skeletons, including a series of 2‐aryl‐1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds, indoles, and benzofurans. The use of lithium chloride and ferrous bromide gives C3‐ or C2‐alkylation products of the QIKs. The combination of ferrous bromide and trifluoromethanesulfonic acid delivers indole derivatives. Sequential hydrolysis and C3‐alkylation occur in the presence of ytterbium (III) trifluoromethanesulfonate and stoichiometric amounts of water. When the reaction is performed with trifluoromethanesulfonic acid and stoichiometric amounts of water, benzofuran is obtained. This protocol utilizes mild conditions, exhibits regio‐ and chemoselectivity, and has broad functional group tolerance.

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Using Stereochemistry to Control Mechanical Properties in Thiol–Yne Click‐Hydrogels
Authors: Macdougall Laura J. , Pérez‐Madrigal Maria M. , Shaw Joshua E. , Worch Joshua C. , Sammon Christopher , Richardson Stephen M. , Dove Andrew P.
Published: September 2021

The stereochemistry of polymers has a profound impact on their mechanical properties. While this has been observed in thermoplastics, studies on how stereochemistry affects the bulk properties of swollen networks, such as hydrogels, are limited. Typically, changing the stiffness of a hydrogel is achieved at the cost of changing another parameter, that in turn affects the physical properties of the material and ultimately influences the cellular response. Herein, we report that by manipulating the stereochemistry of a double bond, formed in situ during gelation, materials with diverse mechanical properties but comparable physical properties can be obtained. Click‐hydrogels that possess a high % trans content are stiffer than their high % cis analogues by almost a factor of 3. Human mesenchymal stem cells acted as a substrate stiffness cell reporter demonstrating the potential of these platforms to study mechanotransduction without the influence of other external factors.
APEX2‐based Proximity Labeling of Atox1 Identifies CRIP2 as a Nuclear Copper‐binding Protein that Regulates Autophagy Activation
Authors: Chen Lin , Li Na , Zhang Meiqi , Sun Mingming , Bian Jiaxuan , Yang Bo , Li Zhengcunxiao , Wang Jiayu , Li Fei , Shi Xiaomeng , Wang Yuan , Yuan Feng , Zou Peng , Shan Changliang , Wang Jing
Published: September 2021

Mammalian cell nuclei contain copper, and cancer cells are known to accumulate aberrantly high copper levels, yet the mechanisms underlying nuclear accumulation and copper's broader functional significance remain poorly understood. Here, by combining APEX2‐based proximity labeling focused on the copper chaperone Atox1 with mass spectrometry we identified a previously unrecognized nuclear copper binding protein, Cysteine‐rich protein 2 (CRIP2), that interacts with Atox1 in the nucleus. We show that Atox1 transfers copper to CRIP2, which induces a change in CRIP2′s secondary structure that ultimately promotes its ubiquitin‐mediated proteasomal degradation. Finally, we demonstrate that depletion of CRIP2‐as well as copper‐induced CRIP2 degradation‐elevates ROS levels and activates autophagy in H1299 cells. Thus, our study establishes that CRIP2 as an autophagic suppressor protein and implicates CRIP2‐mediated copper metabolism in the activation of autophagy in cancer cells.
Ultrathin Crystalline Covalent‐Triazine‐Framework Nanosheets with Electron Donor Groups for Synergistically Enhanced Photocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Wang Congxu , Zhang Hualei , Luo Wenjia , Sun Tian , Xu Yuxi
Published: September 2021

Ultrathin nanosheets have great potential for photocatalytic applications, however, suffer from enlarged band gap and narrowed visible‐light‐responsive range due to the quantum confinement effect. Herein, we report a novel redox strategy for efficient preparation of ultrathin crystalline amide‐functionalized covalent‐triazine‐framework nanosheets (CTF NSs) with enhanced visible light absorption. The CTF NSs exhibited photocatalytic hydrogen (512.3 μmol h−1) and oxygen (12.37 μmol h−1) evolution rates much higher than that of pristine bulk CTF. Photocatalytic overall water splitting could be achieved with efficient stoichiometric H2 (5.13 μmol h−1) and O2 (2.53 μmol h−1) evolution rates under visible light irradiation. Experimental and theoretical analysis revealed that introduction of amide groups as electron donor optimized the band structure and improve its visible‐light absorption, hydrophilicity and carrier separation efficiency, thus resulting in the enhanced photocatalytic performance. The well‐dispersed CTF NSs could be easily cast onto a support as a thin film device and demonstrate excellent photocatalytic activity (25.7 mmol h−1 m−2 for hydrogen evolution).
Unraveling the Origin of Sulfur‐Doped Fe‐N‐C Single‐Atom Catalyst for Enhanced Oxygen Reduction Activity: Effect of Iron Spin‐State Tuning
Authors: Chen Zhaoyang , Niu Huan , Ding Jie , Liu Heng , Chen Pei‐Hsuan , Lu Yi‐Hsuan , Lu Ying‐Rui , Zuo Wenbin , Han Lei , Guo Yuzheng , Hung Sung‐Fu , Zhai Yueming
Published: September 2021

Heteroatom doped atomically dispersed Fe1‐NC catalysts have been found to show excellent activity toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, the origin of the enhanced activity is still controversial because the structure‐function relationship governing the enhancement remains elusive. Herein, sulfur(S)‐doped Fe1‐NC catalyst was obtained as a model, which displays a superior activity for ORR towards the traditional Fe‐NC materials. 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy revealed that incorporation of S in the second coordination sphere of Fe1‐NC can induce the transition of spin polarization configuration. Operando 57Fe Mössbauer spectra definitively identified the low spin single‐Fe3+‐atom of C‐FeN4‐S moiety as the active site for ORR. Moreover, DFT calculations unveiled that lower spin state of the Fe center after the S doping promotes OH* desorption process. This work elucidates the underlying mechanisms towards S doping for enhancing ORR activity, and paves a way to investigate the function of broader heteroatom doped Fe1‐NC catalysts to offer a general guideline for spin‐state‐determined ORR.
Plenty of Room at the Top: A Multi‐Scale Understanding of nm‐Resolution Polymer Patterning on 2D Materials
Authors: Shi Anni , Villarreal Terry A. , Singh Anamika , Hayes Tyler R. , Davis Tyson C. , Brooks Jacob T. , Claridge Shelley A.
Published: September 2021

Lamellar phases of alkyldiacetylenes in which the alkyl chains lie parallel to the substrate represent a straightforward means for scalable 1‐nm‐resolution interfacial patterning. This capability has the potential for substantial impacts in nanoscale electronics, energy conversion, and biomaterials design. Polymerization is required to set the 1‐nm functional patterns embedded in the monolayer, making it important to understand structure–function relationships for these on‐surface reactions. Polymerization can be observed for certain monomers at the single‐polymer scale using scanning probe microscopy. However, substantial restrictions on the systems that can be effectively characterized have limited utility. Here, using a new multi‐scale approach, we identify a large, previously unreported difference in polymerization efficiency between the two most widely used commercial diynoic acids. We further identify a core design principle for maximizing polymerization efficiency in these on‐surface reactions, generating a new monomer that also exhibits enhanced polymerization efficiency.
Solid‐State Red Laser with a Single Longitudinal Mode from Carbon Dots
Authors: Zhang Yongqiang , Song Haoqiang , Wang Lu , Yu Jingkun , Wang Boyang , Hu Yongsheng , Zang Shuang‐Quan , Yang Bai , Lu Siyu
Published: September 2021

Miniaturized solid‐state lasers with a single longitudinal mode are vital for various photonic applications. Here we prepare red‐emissive carbon dots (CDs) with a photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of 65.5 % by combining graphitic nitrogen doping and surface modification. High‐concentration doping alters the CDs’ emission from blue to red, while the electron‐donating groups and polymer coating on their surfaces improve the PLQY and photostability. The CDs exhibit excellent stimulated emission characteristics, with a low threshold of amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) and long gain lifetime. A planar microcavity with only one resonant mode, which fitted with the CDs’ ASE peak, was constructed. Combining the CDs and microcavity produced a solid‐state laser with a single longitudinal mode, a linewidth of 0.14 nm and a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 14.8 dB (Q∼4600). Our results will aid the development of colorful solid‐state micro/nano lasers with potential use in practical photonics.
Irradiation‐Wavelength Directing Circularly Polarized Luminescence in Self‐Organized Helical Superstructures Enabled by Hydrogen‐Bonded Chiral Fluorescent Molecular Switches
Authors: He Yanrong , Zhang Shu , Bisoyi Hari Krishna , Qiao Jinghui , Chen Hong , Gao JingJing , Guo Jinbao , Li Quan
Published: September 2021

Two light‐driven chiral fluorescent molecular switches, (R,S,R)‐switch 1 and (R,S,R)‐switch 2, are prepared by means of hydrogen‐bonded (H‐bonded) assembly of a photoresponsive (S) chiral fluorescent molecule, respectively with a cyano substitution at different positions as an H‐bond acceptor and an opposite (R) chiral molecule as an H‐bond donor. The resulting two switches exhibit tunable and reversible Z/E photoisomerization irradiated with 450 nm blue and 365 nm UV light. When doped into an achiral liquid crystal, both switches are found to be able to form a CPL tunable luminescent helical superstructure. In contrast to the tunable CPL characteristics of the system incorporating switch 2, exposure of the system incorporating switch 1 to 365 nm and 450 nm radiation can lead to controllable different photostationary CPL behavior, including switching‐off and polarization inversion. In addition, optical information coding is demonstrated using the system containing switch 1.
Plasma characteristic metabolites of pediatric community‐acquired pneumonia in traditional Chinese medicine syndrome differentiation
Authors: An Li , Lin Lili , Wang Shouchuan , Xie Tong , Yang Yan , Zhai Wensheng , Du Lina , Li Weiwei , Shen Cunsi , Zhang Ying , Shan Jinjun
Published: September 2021

Community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) is the leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections in children. Heat syndrome (HS) and cold syndrome (CS) are two main syndrome types of pediatric CAP in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). This study aimed to identify plasma metabolic profiles in pediatric CAP and to further select potential biomarkers to distinguish between HS and CS. An ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with linear ion trap quadrupole‐orbitrap mass spectrometry method was applied to plasma samples of 296 patients and 55 healthy controls (HC). The samples were divided into the discovery group (n = 213, HS = 160, CS = 23, HC = 30) and the validation group (n = 138, HS = 93, CS = 20, HC = 25). The orthogonal partial least‐squares discriminant analysis, the value of fold change, and Kruskal–Wallis test with false discovery rate correction (q‐value <0.05) were applied to identify differential plasma metabolites. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the screened metabolites. The results showed that the plasma levels of aspartic acid, phenylalanine, arginine, lysoPC20:1, lysoPE16:0, lysoPE18:0, and PE (16:0_22:6) were increased in CS compared with HC. The plasma levels of PC (18:1_18:1), PC (20:4_20:4), PE (16:0_18:2), lysoPE20:4, lysoPE18:2, and lysoPE22:6 were decreased, whereas, the plasma level of ceramide (d18:1_24:1) was increased in HS compared with HC. There were 13 differential metabolites in CS (AUC = 0.995) and 15 differential metabolites in HS (AUC = 0.954), compared with HC. A panel of seven biomarkers, including LysoPC20:1, lysoPE16:0, lysoPE18:2, lysoPE20:4, lysoPE22:6, PC (18:1_18:1), and PC (20:4_20:4) showed good discrimination between HS and CS with an AUC of 0.982. Altered plasma amino acids and lipids may provide an objective basis for TCM syndrome differentiation in pediatric CAP.
Selective coordination of cobalt ions by zinc fingers in Escherichia coli
Authors: Yoon Chungwoon , Lee Seung Jae
Published: September 2021

The ability of peptides to coordinate with specific metal ions is crucial for environmental protection and recycling processes, because of the toxicity and scarcity of the ions. One‐third of proteins in biological systems have binding affinities to specific metal ions, and thus, can be further applied to collect precious metal ions. Zinc ion is a necessary co‐factor for the regulation of physiological responses in biological systems, because of its ability to bind biomolecules. In this study, three zinc finger (ZF) domains (PARIS_ZF2‐4) from Parkin‐interacting substrates (PARIS) were used to harvest heterometals such as Co2+, Cu2+, and Fe3+ in Escherichia coli. Spectroscopic results demonstrated that PARIS_ZF2‐4 can coordinate with Co2+ during expression. Purified PARIS_ZF2‐4 generated specific d–d transition bands (570 and 644 nm), which were monitored upon the addition of Co2+ to apo‐PARIS_ZF2‐4. These results can facilitate the possible applications of the ZF domain in heterometal substitution and elimination in biological systems.
Evaluation of different vagus nerve stimulation anatomical targets in the ear by vagus evoked potential responses
Authors: de Gurtubay Iñaki Garcia , Bermejo Pedro , Lopez Miguel , Larraya Iñaki , Librero Julian
Published: September 2021

Background

Electrical auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is an emerging therapy. Stimuli are transported to brainstem nuclei, whereby its multiple projections reach to many subcortical and cortical areas, thus allowing the neuromodulation of several systemic physiological processes. We aim to define the best auricular target for taVNS through vagus somatosensory evoked potential (VSEP) elicited stimulating different auricular areas with different electrode sizes.

Methods

Twenty‐six subjects were enrolled. Three stimulation areas were studied: simultaneous cymba and cavum (CC), cymba (C) and earlobe (L); and two electrode sizes: extra‐large (X) and small (S). We studied the effect of five combinations (CCX, CCS, CS, LX and LS) on VSEP´s latency and amplitude, and sensory and pain threshold (Pt) using a lineal mixed model regression analysis. We used CS combination, used in a commercial device, as reference model.

Results

Valid VSEP were obtained for CCX, CCS and CS but not in LX and LS. Both CCS and CCX tests showed significant amplitude increases. The same effect was observed in CCX using CCS as reference. Significant increases in Pt were found for CCX and LX. The same effect was observed in CCX using LX as reference.

Conclusion

The results suggest that CC and C areas are active targets for taVNS but not for earlobe, as anatomical data support. Considering that amplitude reflects the synchronized electrical activity generated, we conclude the most effective topography is the simultaneous stimulation of cymba and concha. The use of X‐sized electrodes increases the amplitudes and makes the stimulation more comfortable.
Assessment of human adipose‐derived stem cell on surface‐modified silicone implant to reduce capsular contracture formation
Authors: Sutthiwanjampa Chanutchamon , Shin Byung Ho , Ryu Na Eun , Kang Shin Hyuk , Heo Chan Yeong , Park Hansoo
Published: September 2021

Medical devices made from poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS)‐based silicone implants have been broadly used owing to their inert properties, biocompatibility, and low toxicity. However, long‐term implantation is usually associated with complications, such as capsular contracture due to excessive local inflammatory response, subsequently requiring implant removal. Therefore, modification of the silicone surface to reduce a risk of capsular contracture has attracted increasing attention. Human adipose‐derived stem cells (hASCs) are known to provide potentially therapeutic applications for tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and reconstructive surgery. Herein, hASCs coating on a PDMS (hASC‐PDMS) or itaconic acid (IA)‐conjugated PDMS (hASC‐IA‐PDMS) surface is examined to determine its biocompatibility for reducing capsular contracture on the PDMS surface. In vitro cell cytotoxicity evaluation showed that hASCs on IA‐PDMS exhibit higher cell viability than hASCs on PDMS. A lower release of proinflammatory cytokines is observed in hASC‐PDMS and hASC‐IA‐PDMS compared to the cells on plate. Multiple factors, including in vivo mRNA expression levels of cytokines related to fibrosis; number of inflammatory cells; number of macrophages and myofibroblasts; capsule thickness; and collagen density following implantation in rats for 60 days, indicate that incorporated coating hASCs on PDMSs most effectively reduces capsular contracture. This study demonstrates the potential of hASCs coating for the modification of PDMS surfaces in enhancing surface biocompatibility for reducing capsular contracture of PDMS‐based medical devices.
Prevalence, determinants, and outcomes of SARS‐COV‐2 infection among cancer patients. A population‐based study in northern Italy
Authors: Serraino Diego , Zucchetto Antonella , Dal Maso Luigino , Del Zotto Stefania , Taboga Francesca , Clagnan Elena , Fratino Lucia , Tosolini Francesca , Burba Ivana
Published: September 2021

Background

It is well established that cancer patients infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 are at particularly elevated risk of adverse outcomes, but the comparison of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection risk between cancer patients and cancer‐free individuals has been poorly investigated on a population‐basis.

Methods

A population‐based study was thus conducted in Friuli Venezia Giulia region, northeastern Italy, to estimate prevalence and determinants of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection among cancer patients, as compared to cancer‐free individuals, and to evaluate adverse outcomes of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. The study included 263,042 individuals tested for SARS‐CoV‐2 in February–December 2020 with cancer history retrieved through the regional cancer registry. Odds ratios (ORs) of SARS‐CoV‐2 positivity, with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs), were calculated using multivariable logistic regression models, adjusted for sex and age. Hazard ratios (HRs) adjusted for sex and age for intensive care unit (ICU) admission and all‐cause death were estimated using Cox models.

Results

Among 26,394 cancer patients tested for SARS‐CoV‐2, the prevalence of infection was 11.7% versus 16.2% among 236,648 cancer‐free individuals, with a corresponding OR = 0.59 (95% CI: 0.57–0.62). The prevalence was much higher (29% in both groups) during the second pandemic wave (October–December 2020). Among cancer patients, age ≥80 years and cancer diagnosis ≥13 months before SARS‐CoV‐2 testing were the major risk factors of infection. Among 3098 infected cancer patients, the fatality rate was 17.4% versus 15.8% among 23,296 negative ones (HR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.49–1.78), and versus 5.0% among 38,268 infected cancer‐free individuals (HR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.12–1.36). No significant differences emerged when considering ICU admission risk.

Conclusion

Albeit cancer patients reported reduced SARS‐CoV‐2 infection risk, those infected showed higher mortality than uninfected ones and infected cancer‐free population. Study findings claim for continuing to protect cancer patients from SARS‐CoV‐2, without reducing the level of oncologic care.
Consumer intention to purchase and corporate social responsibility: Evidence from an experiment in an entrepreneurial context
Authors: Liu Yun , Xu Cheng
Published: September 2021

Previous research has addressed the effects of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives on consumer purchase intention (CPI). However, most of the empirical evidence is based on the analysis of mature large‐scale firms; much less examines the effects of CSR initiatives on CPI in entrepreneurial contexts. In this study, we address this gap by investigating whether entrepreneurial start‐ups' declaration of CSR engagement affects consumers' purchasing intent. We assert that consumers may consider firms' CSR engagement as a signal for unobserved product quality. We exploit a vignette experimental approach to test our theoretical predictions. In our experiment, participants received online invitations to subscribe to an electronic catalog that advertised various products supplied by entrepreneurial start‐ups. The invitations are of five types, some of which presenting different CSR‐related information on the suppliers to the participants. Overall, we find that the displayed information on CSR engagement promotes participants' willingness to subscribe to the electronic catalog, indicating that consumers will increase their purchase intentions for ethically oriented suppliers. Moreover, we find that among all the initiatives, external CSR initiatives (social contribution and environmental responsibility) promote consumers' intentions to purchase most effectively. To the best of our knowledge, our study is the first to explore the effects of different CSR initiatives on entrepreneurial start‐ups in entrepreneurship literature. We highlight the heterogeneous effects of CSR initiatives on CPI, contributing new insights to research on CSR and consumer behavior.
Assessment of nursing students’ research competencies with competency‐based education
Authors: Grande Rizal Angelo N. , Berdida Daniel Joseph E. , Villagracia Hazel N. , Ablao Jay Nantin , Garcia Paul Reinald B.
Published: September 2021

Introduction

There is a preponderance of studies on nurses’ research competency and its benefits to the nursing profession. However, investigations on nursing students’ research competency in the context of competency‐based education (CBE) remain underreported.

Objective

This study investigated the predictors and associations of Saudi nursing students’ research competencies using CBE approach.

Methods

This research used a descriptive, cross‐sectional design. A total enumeration sampling or census of 347 nursing students from three Saudi Arabian state universities who had finished the nursing research course was used. The 24‐item Research Competency Scale for Nursing Students (RCS‐N) was utilized to collect data, which was then analyzed using the chi‐squared test and logistic regression.

Results

Most nursing students were familiar with the nursing research process. There is a strong link between research competencies and age and marks obtained in nursing research course. Age and nursing research course marks (A+/A) were significant predictors of nursing research competency. Thus, students who earned A+/A grades were three times more likely to be competent than those who had lower grades. Similarly, nursing students over the age of 20 years are twice as likely to be research competent as those under 20.

Conclusion

As there are few reports on nursing research competency, CBE helps nursing research instructors create relevant intended learning outcomes (ILOs), allowing them to assess each research step's ILOs more efficiently. Additionally, incorporating functionalist, behaviorist, and constructivist learning theories into the CBE in nursing research course will be more beneficial.