bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐Healing, Photothermal‐Responsive, and Shape Memory Polyurethanes for Enhanced Mechanical Properties of 3D/4D Printed Objects
Authors: Wang Jun , Lin Xiang , Wang Runguo , Lu Yonglai , Zhang Liqun
Published: December 2022

Additive manufacturing is a promising technology that can directly fabricate structures with complex internal geometries, which is barely achieved by traditional manufacturing. However, the mechanical properties of fused deposition modeling (FDM)‐printed objects are inferior to those of conventionally manufactured products. To improve the mechanical properties of the printed products, a series of novel thermoplastic polyurethanes with self‐healing properties, intrinsic photothermal effects, and excellent printability are designed and synthesized by introducing dynamic oxime–carbamate bonds and hydrogen bonds into the polymer chains. On‐demand introduction of near‐infrared (NIR) irradiation, direct heating, and sunlight irradiation enhances interfacial bonding strength and thus improve the mechanical properties of the printed product. Additionally, mechanical anisotropy of the printed products can be sophistically manipulated by regulating the self‐healing conditions. Support‐free printing and healing of damaged printed products are also achieved owing to the self‐healing properties of the material. Moreover, the as‐prepared materials exhibit shape‐memory properties NIR irradiation or direct heating effectively triggers shape‐memory recovery and demonstrates their potential in 4D printing by printing a man‐like robot. This study not only provides a facile strategy for obtaining high‐performance printed products but also broadens the potential applications of FDM technology in intelligent devices.
High‐Yield Production of Extracellular Vesicle Subpopulations with Constant Quality Using Batch‐Refeed Cultures
Authors: Paganini Carolina , Boyce Hannah , Libort Gabriela , Arosio Paolo
Published: December 2022

The conventional manufacturing of extracellular vesicles (EVs) is characterized by low yields and batch‐to‐batch variability, hampering fundamental research on EVs and their practical applications. Perfusion operations have huge potential to address these limitations and increase the productivity and quality of EVs. In this study, perfusion cultures are simulated with batch‐refeed systems and their productivity is compared with that achieved using batch cultures. It is shown that a shift from batch to batch‐refeed system can increase the space‐time yields of a target EV subpopulation characterized by CD81 and CD63 biomarkers by threefold. Moreover, it is demonstrated that the method facilitates the consistent production of the target EVs from cells maintained under constant conditions for 13 days. These results indicate that the use of perfusion cultures is a promising strategy to increase the manufacturing yield of EVs and control the production of specific EV subpopulations with constant quality attributes, thereby improving reproducibility.
Photonic Crystal‐Integrated Optoelectronic Devices with Naked‐Eye Visualization and Digital Readout for High‐Resolution Detection of Ultratrace Analytes
Authors: Hou Yi , Yuan Shuai , Zhu Guangda , You Baihao , Xu Ying , Jiang Wenxin , Shum Ho Cheung , Pong Philip W. T. , Chen Chia‐Hung , Wang Liqiu
Published: December 2022

The detection of ultratrace analytes is highly desirable for the non‐invasive monitoring of human diseases. However, a major challenge is fast, naked‐eye, high‐resolution ultratrace detection. Herein, a rectangular 3D composite photonic crystal (PC)‐based optoelectronic device is first designed that combines the sensitivity‐enhancing effects of PCs and optoelectronic devices with fast and real‐time digital monitoring. A crack‐free, centimeter‐scale, mechanically robust ellipsoidal composite PCs with sufficient hardness and modulus, even exceeding most plastics and aluminum alloys, are developed. The high mechanical strength of ellipsoidal composite PCs allows them to be hand‐machined into rectangular geometries that can be conformally covered with the centimeter‐scale flat light‐detection area without interference from ambient light, easily integrating 3D composite PC‐based optoelectronic devices. The PC‐based device's signal‐to‐noise ratio increases dramatically from original 30–40 to ≈60–70 dB. Droplets of ultratrace analytes on the device are identified by fast digital readout within seconds, with detection limits down to 5 µL, enabling rapid identification of ultratrace glucose in artificial sweat and diabetes risk. The developed 3D PC‐based sensor offers the advantages of small size, low cost, and high reliability, paving the way for wider implementation in other portable optoelectronic devices.
A Bow‐Drill Structured Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Marine Ranching Monitoring
Authors: Li Jianping , Hu Yili , Wang Xiaoning , He Lidong , Ma Jijie , Wan Nen , Wen Jianming , Cheng Tinghai
Published: December 2022

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is one promising method of wave energy harvesting for marine ranching monitoring. Different from previous studies with complex structures (gears, racks, worm gears, or screw‐nut), a bow‐drill structured TENG (BS‐TENG) with a simple, cheap but effective rope‐roller structure is proposed and investigated to magnify the wave motion frequency. Inspired by the bow‐drill for carpentry, the proposed structure only simply needs a rope and roller to transfer the random wave motion into regular rotary motion with higher frequency. Results show that the structure parameters (flexible paddle number NP flexible paddle length L, electrode number NE and shaft side length D) have a great influence on the working performance of the BS‐TENG. The maximum frequency magnification ration (Rm) is 74 under the condition of 130 mm wave height (Hw); the maximum output power (P) is 450 µW. Demonstration experiments verify that the BS‐TENG is able to charge the thermo‐hygrometer and light emitting diode lights for marine ranching. Combined with the Internet of Things and 5G technologies, the BS‐TENG could be applied in the offshore sensor system for the monitoring of marine ranching information.
Excitation‐Dependent and Efficient Phosphorescence Based on Benzophenone Derivatives
Authors: Gao Runqing , Cha Yongyu , Fu Hongbing , Yu Zhenyi
Published: December 2022

The design of organic molecules with high photoluminescence quantum efficiency and adjustable emission colors has led to the development of high‐performance optoelectronic devices. However, the task of generating color‐tunable luminescence originating from different excited states has achieved limited success. Here, a design strategy is presented for improving phosphorescence quantum efficiency and extending emission spectral range by introducing high luminous acenes in benzophenone derivatives. The experimental data reveal that the maximum phosphorescence efficiency of the designed molecule can reach 84% in solution and 61% in crystals, which is the most efficient benzophenone phosphor so far. Importantly, the excited states can be selectively expressed by varying the excitation wavelengths, including thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) from T2 to S1 excited state, and dual phosphorescence from T2 and T1 excited states. The design strategy of using rigid acenes to suppress nonradiative transition provides an opportunity to improve phosphorescence efficiency comparable with fluorescence efficiency, presenting great potential in high‐performance optoelectronic devices.
3D Hot Spots Droplets on the MoS2/Al Hydrophobic Array Interface for SERS Quantitative and Multiplex Detection of Pesticide Residues
Authors: He Meng , Li Zhihao , Guo Yujie , Zhang Maofeng , Zhu Zhengdong , Shi Xiaoyi , Han Konghao , Huang Youju , Liu Honglin
Published: December 2022

The practical application of surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technology for quantitative analysis still confronts the hinder of controlling the uniformity of signal and anchoring target molecules in a designed space. Herein, a facile method of devising the shrinkage of three‐dimension (3D) hot spots droplets on a hydrophobic array substrate is demonstrated for the quantitative and multiplex detection of pesticide residues by using a portable Raman spectrometer. The shrunk droplet which is consisted of the analyte solution and AgNPs sol can induce simultaneously increasing density of plasmonic hot spots and immobilizing target molecules in hot spots. Besides, the closely packed Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) are anchored in the gaps of the MoS2 nanosheet array, generating uniform hotspots distribution with relative standard deviation (RSD) of about 8 %. In addition, the synergetic effects between MoS2 and AgNPs further enhance the SERS sensitivity, and thereby target molecules of 10−9 m are readily detected. Besides, the proposed strategy exhibits excellent SERS sensitivity for the analysis of pesticides down to 10−8 m. Importantly, quantitative analysis and multi‐components detection of pesticide residues on honeysuckle surface are achieved. Therefore, it is expected to be used for quantitative analysis of complex pesticide systems on real samples.
In Situ Sprayed Biotherapeutic Gel Containing Stable Microbial Communities for Efficient Anti‐Infection Treatment
Authors: Yan Jian‐Hua , Zheng Di‐Wei , Gu Hui‐Yun , Yu Yun‐Jian , Zeng Jin‐Yue , Chen Qi‐Wen , Yu Ai‐Xi , Zhang Xian‐Zheng
Published: December 2022

Systematic administration of antibiotics to treat infections often leads to the rapid evolution and spread of multidrug‐resistant bacteria. Here, an in situ‐formed biotherapeutic gel that controls multidrug‐resistant bacterial infections and accelerates wound healing is reported. This biotherapeutic gel is constructed by incorporating stable microbial communities (kombucha) capable of producing antimicrobial substances and organic acids into thermosensitive Pluronic F127 (polyethylene‐polypropylene glycol) solutions. Furthermore, it is found that the stable microbial communities‐based biotherapeutic gel possesses a broad antimicrobial spectrum and strong antibacterial effects in diverse pathogenic bacteria‐derived xenograft infection models, as well as in patient‐derived multidrug‐resistant bacterial xenograft infection models. The biotherapeutic gel system considerably outperforms the commercial broad‐spectrum antibacterial gel (0.1% polyaminopropyl biguanide) in pathogen removal and infected wound healing. Collectively, this biotherapeutic strategy of exploiting stable symbiotic consortiums to repel pathogens provides a paradigm for developing efficient antibacterial biomaterials and overcomes the failure of antibiotics to treat multidrug‐resistant bacterial infections.
Enhancement of Low‐k Spin‐Wave Transmission Efficiency with a Record‐High Group Velocity in YIG/Nonmagnetic Metal Heterojunctions
Authors: Xu Jiapeng , Liao Zhimin , Wang Qi , Liu Bo , Tang Xiaoli , Zhong Zhiyong , Zhang Lei , Zhang Yuanjing , Zhang Huaiwu , Jin Lichuan
Published: December 2022

Improvement of transmission efficiency of spin waves in magnonic devices is crucial for high‐efficiency magnon‐based operations. However, existing techniques for enhancing spin‐wave detection signals, which either improve waveguide material quality or convert other forms of external energy into magnon energy, are still not efficient and convenient enough. Here, it is experimentally demonstrated that low‐k spin waves (where k is the wavenumber) transmission efficiency can be enhanced through yttrium iron garnet (YIG) surface metallization owing to the significantly increased group velocity and low spin‐pumping efficiency at low k. Given that the shielding effect of the conductive metal on YIG increases the spin‐wave group velocity from 55 to 132 km s−1, the weak magnon‐dissipation mechanism of low‐k spin waves provides the foundation for signal enhancement. Through a detailed theoretical analysis on dispersion relations and spin‐wave amplitude, the detected signal strength is increased to 2 times for copper and 2.24 times for gold is verified. In detail the competition between the spin‐pumping effect is discussed and the enhanced group velocity is introduced by the metal decoration. This competition describes the essence of partial signal enhancement in the spin‐wave transmission spectrum. The work provides a practical way to achieve spin‐wave manipulation and low‐loss transmission.
Microscopic Segregation Dominated Nano‐Interlayer Boosts 4.5 V Cyclability and Rate Performance for Sulfide‐Based All‐Solid‐State Lithium Batteries
Authors: He Wei , Ahmad Niaz , Sun Shaorui , Zhang Xiao , Ran Leguan , Shao Ruiwen , Wang Xuefeng , Yang Wen
Published: December 2022

To implement the growing requirement for higher energy density all‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLBs), further increasing the working voltage of LiCoO2 (LCO) is a key to breaking through the bottleneck. However, LiCoO2 severe structural degradation and side reactions at the cathode interface obstruct the development of high‐voltage sulfide‐based ASSLBs (≥4.5 V). Herein, a nano‐metric Li1.175Nb0.645Ti0.4O3 (LNTO) coated LCO cathode where microscopic Ti and Nb segregation at the interface during cycling potentially stabilizes the cathode lattice, and minimizes side reactions, simultaneously, is designed. Advanced transmission electron microscopy reveals that the stable spinel phase minimizes the micro stress at the cathode interface, avoids structure fragmentation, and hence significantly enhances the long‐term cyclic stability of LNTO@LCO @ 4.5 V. Moreover, the differential phase contrast scanning transmission electron microscopy (DPC‐STEM) visualizes the nano‐interlayer LNTO to boost Li+ migration at the cathode interface. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) reveals that sulfide‐based cells with the LNTO nano‐layer effectively reduce the interfacial resistance to 140 Ω compared to LiNbO3 (235 Ω) over 100 cycles. Therefore, 4.5 V sulfide‐based ASSLBs offer gratifying long‐cycle stability (0.5 C for 1000 cycles, 88.6%), better specific capacity, and rate performance (179.8 mAh g–1 at 0.1 C, 97 mAh g–1 at 2 C).
Relationship between pore fluid velocity distribution and pore size distribution
Authors: Nguyen Vi T. , Pham Ngoc H. , Papavassiliou Dimitrios V.
Published: December 2022

This study investigated the normalized velocity magnitude distribution and normalized pore volume distribution in different porous media with porosity between 13.5% and 85%, including sandstones, carbonates, synthetic silica, sphere packings and fiber scaffolds. It was found that both velocity magnitude and pore size follow the same distribution. These results allow the prediction of the velocity distribution in a porous medium when its pore structure is known or tuning the velocity by controlling the pore structure.
Genotype accounts for intraspecific variation in the timing and duration of multiple, sequential life‐cycle events in a willow species
Authors: Iler Amy M. , CaraDonna Paul J. , Richardson Lea K. , Wu Elizabeth T. , Fant Jeremie B. , Pfeiler Kelly C. , Freymiller Grace A. , Godfrey Kimber N. , Gorman Alexander J. , Wilson Nicholas , Whitford Malachi D. , Edmonds Grant A. , Stratton Conner , Jules Erik S.
Published: December 2022

Premise

Phenological variation among individuals within populations is common and has a variety of ecological and evolutionary consequences, including forming the basis for population‐level responses to environmental change. Although the timing of life‐cycle events has genetic underpinnings, whether intraspecific variation in the duration of life‐cycle events reflects genetic differences among individuals is poorly understood.

Methods

We used a common garden experiment with 10 genotypes of Salix hookeriana (coastal willow) from northern California, United States to investigate the extent to which genetic variation explains intraspecific variation in the timing and duration of multiple, sequential life‐cycle events: flowering, leaf budbreak, leaf expansion, fruiting, and fall leaf coloration. We used seven clones of each genotype, for a total of 70 individual trees.

Results

Genotype affected each sequential life‐cycle event independently and explained on average 62% of the variation in the timing and duration of vegetative and reproductive life‐cycle events. All events were significantly heritable. A single genotype tended to be “early” or “late” across life‐cycle events, but for event durations, there was no consistent response within genotypes.

Conclusions

This research demonstrates that genetic variation can be a major component underlying intraspecific variation in the timing and duration of life‐cycle events. It is often assumed that the environment affects durations, but we show that genetic factors also play a role. Because the timing and duration of events are independent of one another, our results suggest that the effects of environmental change on one event will not necessarily cascade to subsequent events.
Understanding the color change of the solutions of Cp2TiCl upon addition of water
Authors: Martínez Antonio Rosales , Enríquez Lourdes , Jaraíz Martín , Thiessen Tanner , Sidhu Jaspreet , McIndoe J. Scott , Rodríguez‐García Ignacio
Published: December 2022

Reduction of red bis (cyclopentadienyl)titanium (IV) dichloride (Cp2TiCl2) with manganese dust in dry THF produces a green solution that turns deep blue upon the addition of traces of water. Mass spectrometric analysis and DFT calculations have been performed to achieve a better understanding of the species that may be present after the interaction of water with reduced Cp2TiCl2. The deep blue solution provides a handy visual indicator for the qualitative determination of water in THF.
Eminent differences in cryogenic toughness of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene with different entanglement densities
Authors: Sui Yang , Li Jiacheng , Cui Yi , Qiu Zhangjie , Wei Peng , Cong Chuanbo , Meng Xiaoyu , Zhou Qiong
Published: December 2022

It is generally believed that the ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) performances are closely related to its molecular weight. However, when we sintered two brands of UHMWPE powders with similar molecular weights, GUR 4012 and GUR 400 Fine, we found they demonstrate eminent differences in cryogenic properties. Particularly, the cryogenic impact strength of GUR 4012 is 236% higher than that of GUR 400 Fine. To explain such an amazing phenomenon, we characterized UHMWPE microstructures and investigated the structure–property relations through scanning electron microscopy, x‐ray scattering diffraction, differential scanning calorimeter, and dynamic mechanical analysis. We observed only a slight difference in crystallization behaviors between them, but the entanglement density of GUR 4012 is much higher than that of GUR 400 Fine. Accordingly, we put forward a potential mechanism to analyze the eminent differences in cryogenic impact strengths. This work may promote our comprehension of the relation between the structure and performances of UHMWPE, which is conducive to promoting UHMWPE performance and broadening its industrial applications.
Triazine/thiophene‐based microporous organic polymer for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Yau Arma Musa , Khaligh Aisan , Tuncel Dönüs
Published: December 2022

In this study, sulfur‐enriched microporous organic polymer (MOP) was prepared using one‐pot Shiff‐base type polycondensation reaction of thiophendicarboxaldehyde with melamine. With 195.731 m2 g−1 surface area and 0.047 cm3 g−1 pore volume, the as‐synthesized MOP has a cotton‐like morphology and a micropore‐dominated pore size distribution. After loading MOP with nickel as a co‐catalyst, we demonstrated that the obtained framework could be used as an efficient and robust electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in an alkaline medium with the optimum composite (Ni2@MOP) exhibiting a low onset potential of −66 mV. Furthermore, the optimum electrocatalyst showed good stability, delivering 91% faradaic efficiency (FE) after a 3.5 h chronoamperometry experiment.
Dielectric and electromagnetic interference shielding properties of nano‐silicon carbide/montmorillonite and graphene nanoplatelets filled polyvinylidene fluoride/poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐block‐poly(ethylene glycol) blend nanocomposites
Authors: Thanasekaran Gayathri , Ahamed M. Basheer , Deshmukh Kalim , Kadlec Jaroslav
Published: December 2022

Herein, hybrid polymer nanocomposite films comprising polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐block‐poly(ethylene glycol) (PEDOT‐block‐PEG) as matrices and silicon carbide nanoparticles (SiC NPs), montmorillonite (MMT) nanoclay, and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) as nanofillers were fabricated by solution casting. The structural, morphological, and thermal characteristics of the nanocomposite films were assessed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The SEM results show the homogeneous distribution of nanofillers within the polymer matrix. The dielectric behavior and electromagnetic interference shielding efficiency (EMI SE) of the nanocomposites were also analyzed. The maximum dielectric constant (ε) and dielectric loss (tanδ) obtained are 47.77 and 12.08, respectively, at lower frequency (50 Hz, 150°C). The maximum EMI SE was observed to be 16.8 dB in the Ku‐band region (12–18 GHz) for the nanocomposites with 20 wt% SiC, 8 wt% MMT, and 2 wt% GNPs loading. The EMI shielding was found to be absorption dominant and originated from the formation of a conductive network between hybrid nanofillers within the PVDF/PEDOT‐block‐PEG blend thereby improving the EMI SE values. These results suggest that PVDF/PEDOT‐block‐PEG/SiC/MMT/GNPs nanocomposites can be used as an efficient EMI shielding material.
Gender, entrepreneurship, and coping with the COVID‐19 pandemic: The case of GoFood merchants in Indonesia
Authors: Elhan‐Kayalar Yesim , Sawada Yasuyuki , van der Meulen Rodgers Yana
Published: December 2022

This paper examines business performance and crisis‐mitigation strategies among micro, small, and medium‐sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia during the COVID‐19 pandemic. We utilise a new primary dataset based on administrative records, survey data, and follow‐up interviews with merchants using the digital application GoFood, an on‐demand cooked food delivery service. Three empirical findings emerge: first, the overall employment size of women‐owned businesses shrank more than men‐owned businesses after the onset of the pandemic; second, women were more likely than men to cut personal expenditures and use government assistance as crisis‐mitigation strategies; and third, competition increased sharply as new merchants entered the platform, with the service areas of both incumbents and entrants shrinking over time. These results have implications for policies on womenʼs entrepreneurship, the uptake of business development services, and financing programs for MSMEs.
Does intra‐country poverty convergence depend on spatial spillovers and the type of poverty measure? Evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Najam Zaira , Gibson John
Published: December 2022

Knowing whether poverty rates converge within a country matters for regional development policy and for understanding growth processes. In this paper, we use five poverty measures, calculated biennially from 2004 to 2014 for 100 districts in Pakistan, to test for poverty convergence. Spatial autoregressive models are used to capture spatial spillovers. Conventional money‐metric poverty measures, such as the headcount index and poverty gap index, show unconditional convergence, and the convergence is more apparent if indirect impacts from spillovers are accounted for. In contrast, two multidimensional poverty indices show no convergence and no indirect impacts from spatial spillovers. Catch‐up growth in initially poorer areas is apparent with the money‐metric poverty measures traditionally used in Pakistan but not with the types of multidimensional poverty measures used officially since 2015. This difference in apparent poverty convergence could affect regional development policy choices.
Reconsidering prosocial behavior as intersocial: A literature review and a new perspective
Authors: Labroo Aparna A. , Khan Uzma , Su Sarena J.
Published: December 2022

Research questions in the prosocial behavior literature focus on the pro aspect of prosocial behavior—that is, how to motivate actions that benefit others. These questions typically employ simplified decision contexts that neglect the intersocial aspect of prosocial behavior—that is, people are embedded in social networks and impacted by interactivity among two or more persons, entities, or societies. These intersocial influences have increased with technology access. Consumers now face richer choice tradeoffs, can access more information on causes, observe others' actions, and choose to make their own choices public. To ask questions that address the nature of prosocial behavior itself rather than consider it merely as another decision context to motivate human behavior in, we call for researchers to conceptualize prosocial behavior as intersocial. This approach can help capture the more realistic decision tradeoffs consumers face, as well as illuminate new research opportunities arising from considering technology‐enabled giving and socially hyperconnected consumers.
An assessment of high temporal frequency satellite data for historic environment applications. A case study from Scotland
Authors: McGrath Ciara N. , Cowley David C. , Hood Sine , Clarke Sheila , Macdonald Malcolm
Published: December 2022

This paper assesses the value of high temporal frequency satellite data with various spatial sampling resolutions for multi‐scalar historic environment survey and management use cases in Scotland, specifically for broad‐brush landscape characterisation, for monitoring the condition of monuments and for the discovery of otherwise unknown sites. Dealing with a part of the world where applications of satellite imagery are almost entirely unexplored, this study takes a real‐world approach, which foregrounds the purpose at hand rather than presenting a case study from an optimal setting. The study highlights the importance of detailed imagery to support interpretation in some instances, and the challenges of obtaining time‐critical optical imagery in a part of the world that experiences significant periods of cloud cover. The real‐world availability of data in such settings is assessed, highlighting that even with daily revisits, useable imagery cannot be guaranteed. The implications of current and past tasking patterns for availability of high‐resolution data now and in the future are discussed. The study identifies the complementary roles that satellite imagery can fulfil, while identifying the limitations that remain to fuller applications of such data, in a study that will be relevant to many parts of Europe and beyond.
Large‐Diameter Pipes: Condition Inspection and Monitoring Test Bed Implementation in Korea
Authors: Kim Jeong‐Hyun , Bae Cheol‐Ho , Chung Goo‐Bong , Yoon Dong‐Jin , Park Choon‐Su , Jung Eui‐Jung , Lee Ho‐Min , Kwon Il‐Bum , Lee Sun‐Ho , Koo Dan
Published: December 2022

Key Takeaways

K‐water manages South Korea's multiregional water pipelines, some of which are showing signs of wear.

To best direct its efforts for preventing future failures, K‐water decided to focus on the health of its large‐diameter pipes.

Reliable tools to conduct pipeline inspections were essential, so a team developed and tested three technologies that produced improved results overall.
Therapeutic drug monitoring of free vancomycin concentration in practice: A new analytical technique based on the HFCF–UF sample separation method
Authors: Ren Feifei , Liu Yixin , Li Shan , Li Xiangchen , Wu Xikun , Li Yaqian , Zhang Zhiqing
Published: December 2022

The aim of this study was to establish a method for free vancomycin concentration determination in human plasma and apply it to clinical therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). The unbound vancomycin in plasma was separated by the hollow fiber centrifugal ultrafiltration (HFCF–UF) technique and analyzed by HPLC. Chromatographic conditions were optimized, the specificity, linearity, precision, recovery and stability of the method were examined, and plasma samples of patients were measured. The standard curve for free vancomycin is y = 0.0277x − 0.0080 with good linearity within 0.25–50 μg·mL−1. The relative and absolute recovery rates for vancomycin were 98.63–101.0% and 88.41–101.2%, respectively. The intraday and interday precision RSDs were <10%. Plasma was stable under several conditions. The TDM value of the free vancomycin concentration of 20 patients was 0.99–38.51 μg·mL−1, and the correlation between the free and total concentrations was not significant. The unbound fraction of vancomycin ranged from 25.5 to 84.8%, with large variation. The operation of free vancomycin separation by HFCF–UF was simple and suitable for TDM in practice. The unbound fraction of vancomycin in clinical samples varied significantly between individuals. It is recommended to perform free concentration TDM in critically ill patients.
Working status and risk of Alzheimer's disease: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhao Jiaxi , Li Kaixin , Liao Xiaoyang
Published: December 2022

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) has become a common illness affecting the elderly, adding to society's social and financial burden. We used two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) in this study to determine the association between working status and AD.

Methods

We performed a two‐sample MR analysis. The genetic associations were derived from the UK Biobank (n = 263,615) and the International Genomics of Alzheimer's Project (n = 63,926). Inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR‐Egger, and weighted median were used in the MR analysis. The funnel plot, Cochran's Q test, MR‐Egger intercept test, and leave‐one‐out analysis were used in sensitivity analyses. Further risk factor analyses were carried out to look into the potential mediators.

Results

Jobs involve heavy manual or physical work (OR = 2.13, 95%CI 1.36–3.36; p = .0011), job involves mainly walking or standing (OR = 1.74, 95%CI 1.19–2.54; p = .004), and job involves shift work (OR = 2.78, 95%CI 1.14–6.80; p = .02) increased the risk of AD in the IVW analysis. There was no heterogeneity and no horizontal pleiotropy in the sensitivity analysis. Risk factor analysis suggested that each of the above association may be mediated by different risk factors.

Conclusion

Our study adds to the evidence that the development of AD is associated with the working status (job involves heavy manual or physical work, job involves mainly walking or standing, and job involves shift work) by using extensive human genetic data.
The association of admission ionized calcium with outcomes of thrombolysed patients with anterior circulation ischemic stroke
Authors: Qi Yan‐Li , Wu Qiong , Li Xiao‐Qiu , Zhou Zhong‐He , Xia Cheng , Wang Xin‐Hong , Chen Hui‐Sheng
Published: December 2022

Background and purpose

The relationship between ionized calcium and prognosis of ischemic stroke is controversial. We aim to determine the relationship of admission ionized calcium levels with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) after intravenous thrombolysis (IVT).

Methods

Consecutive anterior circulation AIS patients treated with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt‐PA) were retrospectively enrolled. According to ionized calcium quartiles, the patients were divided into four groups and clinical data were analyzed between groups. Ionized calcium was entered into logistic regression analysis in two models, separately: model 1, calcium as a continuous variable (per 1‐mmol/L increase), and model 2, calcium as the four‐categorized variable (being collapsed into quartiles: Q1–Q4). Early neurologic improvement (ENI) was defined as improvement of four or more points at 24 h after intravenous rt‐PA, while long‐term good outcome as the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0–1 at 90 days.

Results

A total of 546 patients met the study criteria (mean age was 63.51 ± 11.26 years and 365 [66.8%] were men). The median admission National Institute of Health Stroke Scale was 9 (range 4 to 15). When not adjusted, in model 1: ionized calcium was related to good outcome (odds ratio [OR] 69.061, 95%CI: 1.638–2911.111, p=0.027), but not ENI (OR 14.097, 95%CI: 0.133–1492.596, p=0.266); in model 2: compared with Q4, while good outcome was less common in Q1 (OR 0.623, 95%CI: 0.388–0.999, p=0.049). After adjusting for confounding factors, calcium in Q2 (OR 0.502, 95%CI: 0.253–0.997, p=0.049) was independently associated with ENI, but no matter as a continuous variable or categorized variable, ionized calcium displayed no association with a good outcome.

Conclusion

The current results found that ionized calcium might be associated with early neurological improvement, but had no association with 3 months' outcome in anterior circulation AIS patients after IVT.
Mental health and intentions to quit among nurses in Iran during COVID‐19 Pandemic: A social identity approach
Authors: Cakal Huseyin , Keshavarzi Saeed , Ruhani Ali , Dakhil‐Abbasi Golnoosh , Ünver Halime
Published: December 2022

The positive effects of social identification on mental health are well documented in the literature. However, most of this research has been conducted among small groups in WEIRD (Western Educated Industrialized Rich and Democratic Henrich, Heine, & Norenzayan, 2010, Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 33, 61) settings. Understanding how social identity as a psychological source can improve resilience and welfare among frontline healthcare workers in non‐WEIRD contexts can help to alleviate the negative impact of large‐scale epidemics overall, especially in resource‐poor settings and contribute towards improved welfare of key healthcare workers. The present research investigates whether identifying as a nurse could influence mental health and intentions to quit directly and indirectly via positive and negative emotions among a unique sample of Iranian nurses (N = 462) during a risky period, the COVID‐19 pandemic. Multiple regression results showed that identifying as a nurse was negatively associated with negative emotions which in turn were positively related to depressive symptoms. In a similar vein, identifying as a nurse was positively associated with positive emotions which, in turn, were negatively related to intentions to quit. Results also confirmed that risk perceptions related to COVID‐19 positively moderated the effect of social identification on negative emotions only. That is, identification as a nurse was associated with reduced negative emotions only when perceived risk was low. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of the findings.
Mid‐infrared spectroscopy study of aqueous solution of ethylene glycol using chemometrics analysis and two‐dimensional correlation spectroscopy
Authors: Talebanpour Bayat Elaheh , Akhond Morteza , Hemmateenejad Bahram
Published: December 2022

1, 2‐Ethandiol (ethylene glycol, EG) and its mixtures with water (W) have widespread industrial and biological applications due to their special physiochemical properties. In this study, two‐dimensional correlation spectroscopy and chemometrics analysis of infrared spectra are used to characterize structural features of EG–W binary solutions. Three distinctive regions are observed with diverse contributions of hydrophobic backbone (CH2 groups) and hydrophilic (OH functional) groups. Both groups are simultaneously considered to characterize local structure in each triple region. The aqueous solutions of EG are changed from EG‐like (xw ≤ 0.27) to W‐like solution (xw > 0.83), where xw is W mole fraction. The wide range of EG–W mixtures (0.27 < xw ≤ 0.83) are stabilized by –OH … O (proper hydrogen bonded) and –CH … O (improper hydrogen bonded). Also, trend and relative equilibrium concentration variation of W, EG, and identified cluster are used to propose chemical model of EG–W interaction.
A lean‐zinc anode battery based on metal–organic framework‐derived carbon
Authors: Li Chao , Liang Liheng , Liu Xuhui , Cao Ning , Shao Qingguo , Zou Peichao , Zang Xiaobei
Published: December 2022

Improving zinc metal (Zn0) reversibility and minimizing the N/P ratio are critical to boosting the energy density of Zn0 batteries. However, in reality, an excess Zn source is usually adopted to offset the irreversible zinc loss and guarantee sufficient zinc cycling, which sacrifices the energy density and leads to poor practicability of Zn0 batteries. To address the above conundrum, here, we report a lean‐Zn and hierarchical anode based on metal–organic framework (MOF)‐derived carbon, where trace Zn0 is pre‐reserved within the anode structure to make up for any irreversible zinc source loss. This allows us to construct low N/P ratio Zn0 full cells when coupling the lean‐Zn anode with Zn‐containing cathodes. Impressively, high Zn0 reversibility (average Coulombic efficiency of 99.4% for 3000 cycles) and long full‐cell lifetime (92% capacity retention after 900 cycles) were realized even under the harsh lean‐Zn condition (N/P ratio: 1.34). The excellent Zn reversibility is attributed to the hierarchy structure that homogenizes zinc ion flux and electric field distribution, as confirmed by theoretical simulations, which therefore stabilizes Zn0 evolution. The lean‐Zn anode design strategy will provide new insights into construction of high‐energy Zn0 batteries for practical applications.
A Series of Soluble Planar Oligorylenes up to Hexarylene†
Authors: Fujita Ryuichi , Yoshida Shoko , Kano Haruka , Matsuo Kyohei , Hayashi Hironobu , Yamada Hiroko , Aratani Naoki
Published: December 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Preparation of large rylenes often needs the use of solubilizing groups along the rylene backbone, which results in the distortion of the skeleton and thus broadening of the absorption spectrum. In this work, we successfully synthesized 2,5,8,16,19,22‐hexakis[2,6‐ bis(tri‐fluoromethyl)phenyl]hexarylene (H) by using an oxidative fusion reaction of perylene trimer in 5% yield. The product is soluble in common organic solvents and could be purified with column chromatography. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed that the hexarylene core is not disturbed by the substituents very much and is almost planar. The longest absorption of H exhibits a sharp peak at 831 nm and an on‐set at 875 nm in toluene with a small full‐width‐at‐half‐maximum (FWHM) of 660 cm‐1. The molar extinction coefficient is as large as 131,000 M‐1 cm‐1. The substituents could not perturb the electronic properties of the hexarylene because aryl groups are perpendicular to the hexarylene core and the carbon atoms at 2,5,16,19‐positions have negligible coefficients on its HOMO and LUMO, estimated by theoretical calculations. As a result, the hexarylene having less absorption at the visible light region was stable enough in solution under the LED room light for more than 1 week. This strategy gives a useful guideline to establish the near‐infrared materials that exhibit stability under ambient conditions.
Oligodendrocyte origin and development in the zebrafish visual system
Authors: Santos‐Ledo Adrián , Pérez‐Montes Cristina , DeOliveira‐Mello Laura , Arévalo Rosario , Velasco Almudena
Published: December 2022

Oligodendrocytes are the myelinating cells in the central nervous system. In birds and mammals, the oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) originate in the preoptic area (POA) of the hypothalamus. However, it remains unclear in other vertebrates such as fish. Thus, we have studied the early progression of OPCs during zebrafish visual morphogenesis from 2 days post fertilization (dpf) until 11 dpf using the olig2:EGFP transgenic line; and we have analyzed the differential expression of transcription factors involved in oligodendrocyte differentiation: Sox2 (using immunohistochemistry) and Sox10 (using the transgenic line sox10:tagRFP). The first OPCs (olig2:EGFP/Sox2) were found at 2 dpf in the POA. From 3 dpf onwards, these olig2:EGFP/Sox2 cells migrate to the optic chiasm, where they invade the optic nerve (ON), extending toward the retina. At 5 dpf, olig2:EGFP/Sox2 cells in the ON also colocalize with sox10:tagRFP. When olig2:EGFP cells differentiate and present more projections, they become positive only for sox10:tagRFP. olig2:EGFP/sox10: tagRFP cells ensheath the ON by 5 dpf when they also become positive for a myelin marker, based on the mbpa:tagRFPt transgenic line. We also found olig2:EGFP cells in other regions of the visual system. In the central retina at 2 dpf, they are positive for Sox2 but later become restricted to the proliferative germinal zone without this marker. In the ventricular areas of the optic tectum, olig2:EGFP cells present Sox2 but arborized ones sox10:tagRFP instead. Our data matches with other models, where OPCs are specified in the POA and migrate to the ON through the optic chiasm.
The multiple characteristics of specific associations from words to colors
Authors: Chen Yun , Yang Jianming , Yu Luwen , Westland Stephen , Wang Haina
Published: December 2022

This study mainly focused on exploring the multiple characteristics of specific associations from words to colors. Color association is bidirectional, representing the relationship from color to concept or concept to color. The association between word and color has multiple correspondences in both directions. Colors are associated with ideas, concepts, meanings, emotions, and so forth. However, it is often discussed as a single relationship from color to the concept. How the specific ideas or concepts associated with color, is rarely discussed. So, this work started from a specific concept (words) to colors and then investigated the characteristics of this association. A psychophysical experiment was carried out to collect the specific color associations from target words. Pearson correlation coefficient and K‐means clustering methods were employed to analyze the associations from words to colors. Therefore, the main contribution of this study is to (1) indicate the stronger association from the word to color, the larger the color similarity of the related colors; (2) identify the specific characteristic of the association from a word to colors and the three‐aspect characteristic model was summarized.
Hybrid classifier strategy with tuned training weights for distributed denial of service attack detection
Authors: Dahiya Deepak
Published: December 2022

The 5G wireless networks associated with higher data‐transferring speeds considerably affect the performance of IoT networks. Nowadays, the Internet has become a very significant aspect of human lives, and it aids in data transfers, processing, and storing. However, 5G networks are subjected to varied cyber security attacks, which are hard to detect. As a result, it is required to set up attack detection models that can recognize 5G network's distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack. Thereby, this article aims to introduce a new model for detecting DDoS attacks. Initially, from input data, features such as statistical features, improved exponential moving average, higher order statistical features, MI, and improved correlation based features are derived. Further, a gain ratio ranking model is used for picking fine features from the overall derived features. Finally, at the detection stage, bidirectional long short‐term memory as well as optimized deep belief network (DBN) are introduced that portray the detected results in a precise way. DBN weights get fine‐tuned by the combined shark smell and electric fish model with new distance based active eco‐location model. Finally, the created approach's advantages are demonstrated using a variety of metrics, including precision, accuracy, F‐measure, and others. In particular, the performance metrics of the proposed work at node = 6000 are accuracy = 98.59%, sensitivity = 96.82%, specificity = 97.52%, precision = 98.91%, F‐measure = 97.86%, MCC = 92.19%, NPV = 97.24%, FPR = 2.47%, and FNR = 3.17%, respectively.
Synthesis of Non‐centrosymmetric Dipolar 4,4′‐Bipyridines: Potential Molecular Tectons for Programmed Assembly of Supramolecular Systems
Authors: Kühner Hannes , Leyen Louis , Hassan Zahid , Wöll Christof , Bräse Stefan
Published: December 2022

In this report, we describe a modular synthesis approach towards a new series of non‐centrosymmetric, dipolar 4,4′‐bipyridines bearing 2,6‐ and 3,5‐functionalized pyridyl moieties at the peripheries. Central to our strategy is the selective substitution on only one pyridyl motif that could contain electron‐donating (−CH3) or electron‐withdrawing (−F, −Cl, −CF3) groups which causes electronic/steric effects on one nitrogen atom in 4,4′‐bipyridines. This synthetic protocol was further applied to prepare azo‐functionalized (−N=N−) asymmetric bipyridines and non‐centrosymmetric 4,4′‐bipyridine N‐oxide scaffolds, which overcome the synthetic hurdles oxidizing 4,4′‐bipyridines to N‐monoxides selectively at only one pyridine. Compared to the conventional symmetrical bipyridines, the dipolar non‐centrosymmetric molecular tectons pave the way for the realization of non‐centrosymmetric supramolecular assemblies because of the difference in the binding energy of the pyridyl nitrogen atoms.
An integrated decision‐making framework for corporate sustainability
Authors: Molin Michele , Pizzol Lisa , Pesce Marco , Maura Alessandro , Civiero Matteo , Gritti Elisa , Giotto Simone , Ferri Alberto , Liguoro Lorenzo , Bagnoli Carlo , Semenzin Elena
Published: December 2022

Concepts such as sustainability and sustainable development applied to companies have recently come under the spotlight pushed by stakeholders that are increasingly aware of the negative externalities such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and overexploitation. Several methodologies and tools have been developed encompassing standard, reporting tool, environmental, social, and governance rating tools and frameworks which are often not standardized and increase the uncertainties related to the selection of the most suitable tool or methodology to implement sustainable practices. The purpose of this paper is to design a logical tool, identified as a sustainability decision‐making framework (SDMF), that can guide companies in the process of identifying a personalized, and strategic path toward sustainable development. Specifically, SDMF supports companies in (i) the assessment of material issues and key externalities through bilateral interaction with the key stakeholders, (ii) the adoption and implementation of sustainability through a proactive approach and (iii) reporting their non‐financial externalities. Furthermore, an iterative morphological matrix was developed with the support of 20 sustainability experts and integrated within the SDMF to support the identification of the most suitable methodologies which can be used by companies to mitigate the relevant sustainability issues.
Siemens Reloaded: Chloride‐Assisted Selective Hydrodechlorination of SiCl4 to HSiCl3
Authors: Sturm Alexander G. , Karaca Uhut S. , Heinz Myron , Felder Thorsten , Lewis Kenrick M. , Auner Norbert , Holthausen Max C.
Published: December 2022

Trichlorosilane is the key intermediate for the large‐scale production of polycrystalline silicon in the Siemens and Union Carbide processes. Both processes, however, are highly inefficient, and over two thirds of the trichlorosilane employed is converted to unwanted silicon tetrachloride accumulating in millions of tons per year on a global scale. In this combined experimental and theoretical study we report an energetically and environmentally benign synthetic protocol for the highly selective conversion of SiCl4 to HSiCl3 using organohydridosilanes as recyclable hydrogen transfer reagents in combination with onium chlorides as efficient catalysts. We put the same protocol to further use demonstrating the quantitative conversion of higher oligosilane residues, which form as another unwanted and potentially hazardous byproduct of Siemens processes, to HSiCl3 in a low‐temperature recycling step.