bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Asymmetry Field‐Effect Phototransistor for Solving Large Exciton Binding Energy of 2D TMDCs
Authors: Ra Hyun‐Soo , Ahn Jongtae , Jang Jisu , Kim Tae Wook , Song Seung Ho , Jeong Min‐Hye , Lee Sang‐Hyeon , Yoon Taegeun , Yoon Tea Woong , Kim Seungsoo , Taniguch Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Song Young Jae , Lee Jong‐Soo , Hwang Do Kyung
Published: December 2021

The probing of fundamental photophysics is a key prerequisite for the construction of diverse optoelectronic devices and circuits. To date, though, photocarrier dynamics in 2D materials remains unclear, plagued primarily by two issues: a large exciton binding energy, and the lack of a suitable system that enables the manipulation of excitons. Here, a WSe2‐based phototransistor with an asymmetric split‐gate configuration is demonstrated, which is named the “asymmetry field‐effect phototransistor” (AFEPT). This structure allows for the effective modulation of the electric‐field profile across the channel, thereby providing a standard device platform for exploring the photocarrier dynamics of the intrinsic WSe2 layer. By controlling the electric field, this work the spatial evolution of the photocurrent is observed, notably with a strong signal over the entire WSe2 channel. Using photocurrent and optical spectroscopy measurements, the physical origin of the novel photocurrent behavior is clarified and a room‐temperature exciton binding energy of 210 meV is determined with the device. In the phototransistor geometry, lateral p–n junctions serve as a simultaneous pathway for both photogenerated electrons and holes, reducing their recombination rate and thus enhancing photodetection. The study establishes a new device platform for both fundamental studies and technological applications.
Auxetics‐Inspired Tunable Metamaterials for Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Wu Ke , Zhao Xiaoguang , Bifano Thomas G. , Anderson Stephan W. , Zhang Xin
Published: December 2021

Auxetics refers to structures or materials with a negative Poisson's ratio, thereby capable of exhibiting counterintuitive behaviors. Herein, auxetic structures are exploited to design mechanically tunable metamaterials in both planar and hemispherical configurations operating at megahertz (MHz) frequencies, optimized for their application to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Specially, the reported tunable metamaterials are composed of arrays of interjointed unit cells featuring metallic helices, enabling auxetic patterns with a negative Poisson's ratio. The deployable deformation of the metamaterials yields an added degree of freedom with respect to frequency tunability through the resultant modification of the electromagnetic interactions between unit cells. The metamaterials are fabricated using 3D printing technology and an ≈20 MHz frequency shift of the resonance mode is enabled during deformation. Experimental validation is performed in a clinical (3.0 T) MRI system, demonstrating that the metamaterials enable a marked boost in radiofrequency field strength under resonance‐matched conditions, ultimately yielding a dramatic increase in the signal‐to‐noise ratio (≈4.5×) of MRI. The tunable metamaterials presented herein offer a novel pathway toward the practical utilization of metamaterials in MRI, as well as a range of other emerging applications.
Non‐Contact Mass Density and Thermal Conductivity Measurements of Organic Thin Films Using Frequency–Domain Thermoreflectance
Authors: Perez Christopher , Knepper Robert , Marquez Michael P. , Forrest Eric C. , Tappan Alexander S. , Asheghi Mehdi , Goodson Kenneth E. , Ziade Elbara O.
Published: December 2021

Thin‐film organic materials are broadly used to study amorphous stabilization of active pharmaceuticals, control explosive detonation phenomena, and introduce insulation in novel thermal barriers. Their synthesis, however, introduces defects and thickness variations that warrant careful characterization of local thermophysical properties such as thermal conductivity and mass density. Here, wide bandwidth (200 Hz to 20 MHz) frequency–domain thermoreflectance (FDTR) is demonstrated to simultaneously extract the thermal conductivity and mass density of 1 μm physical vapor‐deposited indomethacin films on Si and SiO2 substrates, as well as 10 and 100 μm films on Si. By assuming a bulk specific heat capacity, mass densities are determined with FDTR measurements of volumetric heat capacity and are in good agreement with the literature, as well as models based upon a dependence on porosity and the kinetic theory for phonons. Lastly, it is found that for broad‐band FDTR measurements, insulating substrates provide improved fidelity for the extraction of thermal conductivity and volumetric heat capacity in organic thin films. Overall, this work demonstrates the potential for FDTR as a non‐contact method to determine microscale mass density variations across the surface and thickness of organic thin films.
Dual Modification of Carbon Support Enables Robust Anchoring of Ruthenium Nanoclusters for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution and Aromatic Nitroreduction
Authors: Wang Feng , Qin Shuaibo , Zhu Botao , Jin Peng , Cai Jiahao , He Yunpeng , Cong Hailin , Feng Lai
Published: December 2021

Graphite carbons have been widely used as catalyst support due to their low‐cost, tunable porous structure, high electrical conductivity, and good resistance to harsh conditions. To date, various defect engineerings have been adopted to enhance the cohesion between graphite carbons and metallic nanocatalysts. Nevertheless, the modification of carbon basal plane has been less explored. In this work, a dual modification strategy is developed to achieve novel carbon support (denoted as NCf) incorporating both C60 units and trace N‐defects. Benefiting from the dual anchoring modes (Ru–C and Ru–N–C), ultrafine ruthenium (Ru) nanoclusters (average size: 2.26 ± 0.38 nm) can be well‐dispersed and robustly anchored on the NCf support. The optimal Ru0.013@NCf catalyst exhibits decent catalytic activities and long‐term stabilities toward both alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and aromatic nitroreduction (ANR), outperforming the individually modified counterparts. Computational studies suggest that introducing both C60 and N‐defects into carbon support leads to electron‐deficient Ru nanocluster, which is critical for not only HER but also ANR. This work thus provides a new guideline for rational design of advanced carbon supported nanocatalysts for multipurpose applications.
Superhydrophobic and Photothermal PVDF/CNTs Durable Composite Coatings for Passive Anti‐Icing/Active De‐Icing
Authors: Jiang Guo , Liu Zhongyang , Hu Jinhuan
Published: December 2021

The formation and accumulation of ice on the surfaces of external facilities and instrumentation can often cause irreparable damage and disaster. It is significant to develop an easily used technology with a passive anti‐icing property to improve the de‐icing/anti‐icing efficiency. In this work, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are combined to modulate a hierarchical coating structure. The coating surface is treated by 1H,1H,2H,2H‐perfluorodecyltrimethoxysilane vapor with a lower surface energy. The resultant coating has excellent anti‐icing properties with a water contact angle of 163°, icing delay time up to 584 s, and low ice adhesion of 13.2 kPa (easily removed by a natural wind), which is a result of the multilayered structure (provided by the micro‐size PVDF particles and nano‐size CNTs). The excellent anti‐icing properties are kept even after mechanical abrasion and chemical attacking. The robustness of the coating is from the continuous network formed by PVDF melt in the heating process. The efficient photothermal conversion of CNTs can generate additional heat at low temperatures under the light illumination, which makes the coating achieve a photothermal de‐icing performance. This multifunctional photothermal de‐icing coating will have a wide range of applications in the outside environment.
Stable and Efficient Oxygen Evolution from Seawater Enabled by Graphene‐Supported Sub‐Nanometer Arrays of Transition Metal Phosphides
Authors: Qi Lei , Li Ang , Wang Mei , Zhang Yin , Zhang Kai , Li Xinheng
Published: December 2021

Electrolysis of seawater will alleviate strain on fresh water scarcity. Non‐noble metal compounds as substitutes for precious metals for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) have been intensively studied. However, to make OER electrocatalyst efficient and stable in seawater is still an issue to be solved. In view of this, an attempt to fabricate nickel foam (NF)‐enclosed reduced graphene oxide (rGO) supported sub‐nanometer arrays of NiFe phosphide is reported. The as‐obtained NiFeP/P‐doped rGO/NF (NiFeP/P‐rGO/NF) at current densities of 100 and 400 mA cm–2 shows overpotentials of 290 and 340 mV respectively, well below 490 mV overpotential that avoided triggering chloride oxidation in seawater (1 m KOH+1 m NaCl). The Tafel slope of NiFeP/P‐rGO/NF is as low as 71.9 mV dec–1. Moreover, no considerable loss of current density is observed after 450 h at 35 mA cm–2. This strategy is extended to fabricate CoFeP/P‐rGO/NF and IrO2/rGO/NF and they also show superior activity. The combination of ultrathin NiFeP arrays and conductive network of rGO are the key to superior activity. Hydrophobicity of the rGO is accountable for good durability in seawater.
Interfacial Passivation and Energy Level Alignment Regulation for Self‐Powered Perovskite Photodetectors with Enhanced Performance and Stability
Authors: Wang Diandian , Xu Weiwei , Min Liangliang , Tian Wei , Li Liang
Published: December 2021

Interfacial passivation and energy level alignment regulation at perovskite and charge transport layer interface are urgently desirable for constructing efficient and stable self‐powered perovskite photodetectors. Herein, a modified additive‐containing antisolvent strategy that not only facilitates high quality perovskite film formation but also modulates energy level alignment at interface is developed to improve the photoresponse and stability of perovskite photodetectors. Specifically, poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) is introduced as functional additive into the antisolvent chlorobenzene. P3HT molecules penetrate along perovskite grain boundaries to fill the pinholes and passivate Pb2+ defects. Furthermore, the valence band maximum of the surface of the perovskite layer is modulated to form a favorable band energy alignment with the hole transport layer (HTL). The suppressed carrier recombination at the perovskite/HTL interface results in reduced noise current and improved photocurrent. Finally, the optimized device achieves a responsivity of 0.41 A W‐1, a detectivity of 0.61 × 1012 Jones at 700 nm, and a linear dynamic response range of 118 dB without external bias. In addition, the unpackaged device still maintains 78% of initial performance after 720 h under ambient conditions, indicating its superior stability compared with the original device.
Rational Composition and Structural Control for Enhancing Thermoelectric Properties in p‐Type Bi0.4Sb1.6Te3 Thin Films
Authors: Chen Yue‐Xing , Li Ruo‐yang , Wang Tao , Jabar Bushra , Li Fu , Liang Guang‐xing , Zheng Zhuang‐hao , Fan Ping
Published: December 2021

Bi2Te3‐based thin films with high thermoelectric performance possess a full potential for application in thermoelectric devices. This work, reports p‐type Te‐excess Bi0.4Sb1.6Te3 (BST) thin films with high power factor via composition and growth orientation optimization. Experimental characterizations show that the preferred growth orientation changes from (015) to (00l) with the increase of rapid annealing temperature, contributing to the high electrical conductivity of the Te‐excess BST thin films. The Te nanoparticles between the BST grain boundaries are observed via microstructure characterization; the composition regulation leads to the optimization of the carrier concentration and enhancement of Seebeck coefficient. As a result, the high power factor of 18.39 µW cm−1 K−2 is obtained at 500 K, over two times larger than that of BST thin film. This work establishes that rational composition and structural manipulations can significantly enhance the thermoelectric performance in p‐type Te–Bi0.4Sb1.6Te3 thin films.
Terahertz Metamaterial Absorbers
Authors: Chen Chuanxin , Chai Minqi , Jin Meihua , He Tao
Published: December 2021

Terahertz metamaterial absorbers (TMAs) can efficiently absorb electromagnetic wave in the range of 0.1–10 THz based on the tunable electromagnetic properties of artificially designed unit cells. TMAs can achieve perfect absorption, as well as broad band absorption. Specifically, TMAs can break the thickness limit of a device at a quarter wavelength, realizing ultra‐thin devices so as to facilitate integration with other systems. Accordingly, TMAs have high application value in communication, imaging, detection, security inspection, and other fields because of their characteristics of small size, perfect absorption, less restriction of natural materials, and tunable electromagnetic parameters. This review covers the fundamental principles and recent advances of TMAs, from the essential structural features of TMAs and working principle of various types of TMAs to the design and applications of corresponding structures, especially the TMAs that can be tuned by various approaches. The development trend and challenges of TMAs are briefly discussed too. It is envisioned that this review can help R&D of the future TMAs for real applications.
External Field‐Driven Untethered Microrobots for Targeted Cargo Delivery
Authors: Zhu Shilu , Chen Yin , Liu Guangli , Qian Haisheng , Niu Fuzhou , Wang Ying , Zhao Yuliang , Luo Tingting , Yang Runhuai
Published: December 2021

Untethered microrobots (UMRs) propelled by multiple external power sources have emerged as promising tools for biomedical applications, such as targeted cargo delivery (TCD), microsurgery, thrombolysis, medical imaging, etc. In particular, owing to their minimal invasiveness and capability of accessing hard‐to‐reach regions of the human body in a controllable manner, the application of UMRs for TCD is of great interest in recent years. Here, the state‐of‐the‐art UMRs in this regard are presented, focused on targeted drug and cell delivery systems. Meanwhile, this review systematically details recent research studies on the use of UMRs in TCD, containing their constituent materials (functional, scaffold, and smart materials), fabrication methods, and three types of external propulsion energy sources concerning their mechanisms and corresponding typical designs. Subsequently, various strategies for controlled drug release are summarized, as well as the latest targeted cell delivery systems and relevant cell manipulation in vitro or in ex vivo. Finally, the current challenges to clinical translation faced by the UMRs and future perspectives on this field are highlighted.
Synthesis of ZIF‐94 from Recycled Mother Liquors: Study of the Influence of Its Loading on Postcombustion CO2 Capture with Pebax Based Mixed Matrix Membranes
Authors: Hasan Md Rafiul , Paseta Lorena , Malankowska Magdalena , Téllez Carlos , Coronas Joaquín
Published: December 2021

Global energy demand is met in large part, by burning of fossil fuels, which is causing global warming. Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) with metal organic frameworks (MOFs) as fillers are an interesting alternative for capturing post combustion CO2 which would make the energy sector sustainable. This research is focused on the synthesis of MOF ZIF‐94 from the recycling of its mother liquors and the incorporation of synthesized MOF into a Pebax MH 1657 for MMM fabrication. The pH and the temperature of ZIF‐94 synthesis are modified and monitored and this results in various nanoparticle diameters (average particle size in the range of 41 ± 8–180 ± 73 nm). Incorporation of ZIF‐94 significantly improves the performance of the bare Pebax MH 1657 membrane. The maximum CO2/N2 selectivity and CO2 permeability are obtained for 10 wt% ZIF‐94 loading in 9 wt% (polymer concentration in 70/30 (v/v) ethanol/water solution) Pebax MH 1657 matrix being 36 ± 7 (71% increment compared to bare membrane) and 137 ± 31 Barrer (80% improvement), respectively.
Biobridge: An Outlook on Translational Bioinks for 3D Bioprinting
Authors: Gu Yawei , Forget Aurelien , Shastri V. Prasad
Published: December 2021

3D‐bioprinting (3DBP) possesses several elements necessary to overcome the deficiencies of conventional tissue engineering, such as defining tissue shape a priori, and serves as a bridge to clinical translation. This transformative potential of 3DBP hinges on the development of the next generation of bioinks that possess attributes for clinical use. Toward this end, in addition to physicochemical characteristics essential for printing, bioinks need to possess proregenerative attributes, while enabling printing of stable structures with a defined biological function that survives implantation and evolves in vivo into functional tissue. With a focus on bioinks for extrusion‐based bioprinting, this perspective review advocates a rigorous biology‐based approach to engineering bioinks, emphasizing efficiency, reproducibility, and a streamlined translation process that places the clinical endpoint front and center. A blueprint for engineering the next generation of bioinks that satisfy the aforementioned performance criteria for various translational levels (TRL1‐5) and a characterization tool kit is presented.
Depth Gradient Reduced Graphene Oxide Layer via Intense Pulsed Light Annealing Process for the Flexible Resistive Random Access Memory Device
Authors: Park Jong‐Whi , Moon Chang‐Jin , Ju Young‐Min , Jang Yong‐Rae , Park Simon S. , Kim Hak‐Sung
Published: December 2021

In this study, an intense pulsed light (IPL) is irradiated for reducing graphene oxide (GO) to form a flexible resistive random access memory (ReRAM). The reduced‐GO (r‐GO) thin semiconductor layer is coated using spin coating method with distilled‐water and ethanol‐based solution on the flexible bottom electrode (Cu). The irradiation conditions are optimized to obtain high retention and switching characteristics. A top electrode (Al) is formed by deposition process and the electrical characteristics of the ReRAM are measured using a parameter analyzer. The optimally reduced GO‐based ReRAM shows write‐once read‐many times (WORM) characteristics and high electrical performances such as on/off ratio (≈103), operation voltage (−4.2–4.5 V), and excellent retention properties (retention time: 108). The effect of the IPL annealing on GO layer is analyzed using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). In the analysis results, the depth gradient reduced GO layer is clearly observed. In addition, the switching mechanism of ReRAM is investigated using energy band diagram of ReRAM structure(Cu/GO/r‐GO/Al). This ReRAM device fabricated on flexible substrate (PI substrate) does not show the degradation in switching characteristics even after bending the substrate in 1000 times with a 5 mm bending radius, demonstrating excellent mechanical endurance of ReRAM device.
Covalency Competition Induced Active Octahedral Sites in Spinel Cobaltites for Enhanced Pseudocapacitive Charge Storage
Authors: Tang Pei , Gao Peng , Cui Xuehao , Chen Zhen , Fu Qingfeng , Wang Zixing , Mo Ying , Liu Hui , Xu Chaohe , Liu Jilei , Yan Jiaxu , Passerini Stefano
Published: December 2021

Spinel cobaltites are widely presented as promising pseudocapacitive materials, however, a fundamental understanding of their structure–property relationship at an atomic level remains vague. Herein, their geometrical‐site‐dependent charge storage capability is investigated by substituting Co with inactive Zn and redox‐active Mn. Experimental and theoretical analyses reveal that redox‐active cations in octahedral sites contribute to enhanced capacitance, intrinsically determined by the covalency competition between tetrahedral and octahedral sites. The Zn2+ incorporation leads to increased occupancy of Co in octahedral sites and 2.9× increased capacitance at 1 A g−1 current density, whereas the substituted Mn cations mainly sit in octahedral sites which can react with OH− upon cycling and separate on the spinel surface to reconstruct into δ‐MnO2 nanosheets, leading to 4× increased capacitance at 1 A g−1 current density with a detected K+ ion intercalation. Thus, the exposure of redox‐active cations in octahedral sites and their intrinsic properties are influential in determining spinel oxides’ pseudocapacitive properties. This work provides a general principle to optimize the pseudocapacitive properties of spinel cobaltites by deliberately selecting cations for substitution and controlling their distribution in octahedral/tetrahedral sites. It also offers a fundamental understanding of geometrical‐site‐dependent activity, and can effectively guide the development of spinel oxides for enhanced pseudocapacitance.
Molybdenum‐Promoted Surface Reconstruction in Polymorphic Cobalt for Initiating Rapid Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Bai Juan , Mei Jun , Liao Ting , Sun Qiang , Chen Zhi‐Gang , Sun Ziqi
Published: December 2021

It has been well recognized that the surface reconstruction of electrocatalysts at the initial stage in the form of phase transitions, defect migrations, valence regulations, etc., plays a critical role in generating real, surface active catalytic centers and achieving steady surface reactions. It is also expected that a low activation energy barrier for initiating surface reconstruction is crucial for rapid and stable electrochemical catalysis. Despite this, the surface reconstruction kinetics and their effects on catalytic reactions have been rarely investigated. Herein, using phase modulated polymorphic cobalt‐based catalysts with tailorable nitrogen‐metal bonds through a cationic molybdenum‐substitution strategy, real‐time X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) structural monitoring of the surface chemical state evolution during the catalytic reaction is performed to track the initial surface reconstruction kinetics during the alkaline oxygen evolution reaction (OER). It is concluded that the molybdenum‐modulated cobalt‐based nanocatalyst can be tuned with favorable initial surface reconstruction and stabilized active centers to reach optimized OER catalysis, accompanied by a low onset overpotential of only 210 mV and a favorable overpotential at 10 mA cm–2 of 290 mV, outperforming the commercial, noble‐metallic RuO2 catalyst. This study thus provides new conceptual insights into rationally regulating the initial surface reconstruction kinetics for high‐performance electrocatalysis reactions.
Ectodysplasin pathogenic variants affecting the furin‐cleavage site and unusual clinical features define X‐linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia in India
Authors: Chaudhary Ajay Kumar , Gholse Aishwarya , Nagarajaram Hampapathalu Adimurthy , Dalal Ashwin Bhikaji , Gupta Neerja , Dutta Atanu Kumar , Danda Sumita , Gupta Rekha , Sankar Hariharan V. , Bhavani Gandham SriLakshmi , Girisha Katta M. , Phadke Shubha Rao , Ranganath Prajnya , Bashyam Murali Dharan
Published: December 2021

Hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (HED) is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutational inactivation of a developmental pathway responsible for generation of tissues of ectodermal origin. The X‐linked form accounts for the majority of HED cases and is caused by Ectodysplasin (EDA) pathogenic variants. We performed a combined analysis of 29 X‐linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (XLHED) families (including 12 from our previous studies). In addition to the classical triad of symptoms including loss (or reduction) of ectodermal structures, such as hair, teeth, and sweat glands, we detected additional HED‐related clinical features including facial dysmorphism and hyperpigmentation in several patients. Interestingly, global developmental delay was identified as an unusual clinical symptom in many patients. More importantly, we identified 22 causal pathogenic variants that included 15 missense, four small in‐dels, and one nonsense, splice site, and large deletion each. Interestingly, we detected 12 unique (India‐specific) pathogenic variants. Of the 29 XLHED families analyzed, 11 (38%) harbored pathogenic variant localized to the furin cleavage site. A comparison with HGMD revealed significant differences in the frequency of missense pathogenic variants; involvement of specific exons and/or protein domains and transition/transversion ratios. A significantly higher proportion of missense pathogenic variants (33%) localized to the EDA furin cleavage when compared to HGMD (7%), of which p.R155C, p.R156C, and p.R156H were detected in three families each. Therefore, the first comprehensive analysis of XLHED from India has revealed several unique features including unusual clinical symptoms and high frequency of furin cleavage site pathogenic variants.
Psychomotor development in infants and young children with Down syndrome—A prospective, repeated measure, post‐hoc analysis
Authors: Sacco Silvia , Bouis Charles , Gallard Jennifer , Pichot Aude , Blondiaux Elodie , Marey Isabelle , Dorison Nathalie , Sturtz Franck , Cieuta‐Walti Cecile , Ravel Aimé , Mircher Clotilde
Published: December 2021

Children with Down syndrome (DS) show delayed acquisition of cognitive and functional skills compared to typically developing children. The objective of this study was to accurately describe early development of infants and young children (children hereafter) with DS based on a large recent sample. We carried out repeated measure analysis of the global development quotient (GDQ) and developmental age using data from the Assessment of Systematic Treatment with Folinic Acid and Thyroid Hormone on Psychomotor Development of Down Syndrome Young Children (ACTHYF) study (NCT01576705). Because there was no statistically significant difference in the primary endpoint between active treatment and placebo, data from all treatment groups were pooled for post‐hoc analysis. Data of 141 children with DS aged 6–18 months at inclusion were analyzed. Mean GDQ decreased over the study period, especially in the youngest age classes ([6–9] and [9–12] months), indicating that acquisition of skills occurred at a slower pace compared to typically developing children. Strongest deficits were observed for motor and hearing and language skills. Only GDQ at baseline correlated significantly with evolution of GDQ. Future studies should aim at elucidating the mechanisms underlying motor and language development. Early pharmacological interventions together with early childhood therapies might be necessary to improve the developmental trajectory of children with DS.
Regulation of Biological Functions at the Cell Interface by DNA Nanostructures
Authors: Chen Yongjian , Tian Run , Shang Yingxu , Jiang Qiao , Ding Baoquan
Published: December 2021

The control over specific biological functions of a single cell or between different cells is an exciting goal in the fields of biophysics and biochemistry. Besides the fast‐developed chemical biology methods, such as chemical labeling and gene editing, researchers are still seeking for efficient ways to manipulate cell behaviors. Over the past decades, self‐assembled DNA nanostructures have emerged as novel and versatile tools for the study of biological science. Featured with structural programmability, customized functionality, and marked biocompatibility, DNA nanostructures have been immensely exploited for a variety of fascinating biological applications including bioimaging and drug delivery. In addition, DNA nanostructures also hold great potential in the regulation of physiological functions at various biological interfaces. In this minireview, the recent progress of the regulation of biological processes and functions at cell interface using DNA nanostructures is summarized. Current challenges and opportunities in applying DNA nanoassemblies as tools for cell behavior manipulation are also briefly discussed.
Reductive Alkylation of Alkenyl Acetates with Alkyl Bromides by Nickel Catalysis
Authors: He Rong‐De , Bai Yunfei , Han Guan‐Yu , Zhao Zhen‐Zhen , Pang Xiaobo , Pan Xiaobo , Liu Xue‐Yuan , Shu Xing‐Zhong
Published: December 2021

Catalytic alkylation of stable alkenyl C−O electrophiles is synthetically appealing, but studies to date have typically focused on the reactions with alkyl Grignard reagents. We report herein a cross‐electrophile reaction of alkenyl acetates with alkyl bromides. This work has enabled a new method for the synthesis of aliphatic alkenes from alkenyl acetates to be established that can be used to add more structural complexity and molecular diversity with enhanced functionality tolerance. The method allows for a gram‐scale reaction and modification of biologically active molecules, and it affords access to useful building blocks. Preliminary mechanistic studies reveal that the NiI species plays an essential role for the success of the coupling of these two reactivity‐mismatched electrophiles.
A Supramolecular Polymer Constituted of Antiaromatic NiII Norcorroles
Authors: Ukai Shusaku , Takamatsu Aiko , Nobuoka Masaki , Tsutsui Yusuke , Fukui Norihito , Ogi Soichiro , Seki Shu , Yamaguchi Shigehiro , Shinokubo Hiroshi
Published: December 2021

For the creation of next‐generation organic electronic materials, the integration of π‐systems has recently become a central theme. Such functional materials can be assembled by supramolecular polymerization when aromatic π‐systems are used as monomers, and the properties of the resulting supramolecular polymer strongly depend on the electronic structure of the monomers. Here, we demonstrate the construction of a supramolecular polymer consisting of an antiaromatic π‐system as the monomer. An amide‐functionalized NiII norcorrole derivative formed a one‐dimensional supramolecular polymer through π‐π stacking and hydrogen‐bonding interactions, ensuring the persistency of the conducting pathway against thermal perturbation, which results in higher charge mobility along the tightly bound linear aggregates than that of the aromatic analogue composed of ZnII porphyrins.
Synthesis of waterborne polyurethane nanocomposite adhesives of bio‐based polyol from rapeseed cake residual and cellulose nanowhisker
Authors: Mosayebi Maryam , Sadeghi Gity Mir Mohamad , Jamjah Roghieh
Published: December 2021

In this research work, we synthesize a series of waterborne polyurethane (WPU) bio‐nanocomposite adhesives from bio‐based polyols, extracted from rapeseed cake residual (RCR) by oxypropylation procedure, and cellulose nanowhisker (CNW). The hydroxyl‐ (OH) number of the polyols, as the first variable parameter, is controlled through tuning oxypropylation degree by changing propylene oxide (PO) to RCR ratio. From the four prepared polyols, WPU of Polyol‐2 (WPU2) shows the most significant shear strength for wood and glass adhesion substrates. Polyurethane nanocomposites of CNW, with three different weight contents of 0.25, 0.50, and 1.0%, are prepared from WPU2, as the optimum WPU, and the WPU2 nanocomposite of WPU2‐0.50 wt% show the highest shear strength for all types of the substrates. For the WPU2 and WPU2‐0.50 wt% adhesives, the wood‐wood substrate show a high shear strength of 12.8 and 15.1 MPa, respectively. This work revealed that the shear strength of the adhesives and their failure mechanisms are affected by the structural parameters, OH‐number, and CNW content.
Synthesis and application of aminosiloxane‐modified cationic waterborne polyurethane as fixing agent for nylon fabric
Authors: Jiang Junhao , Bu Guangjiu , Yin Yunjie , Wang Chaoxia
Published: December 2021

In order to make up for the lack of washing fastness and chlorinated water fastness of nylon dyed with acid dyes, an aminosiloxane modified cationic waterborne polyurethane (KWPU) with the ability to reversibly adsorb chloride ions was synthesized. N‐methyldiethanolamine and ethylenediamine was used as chain extender. N‐aminoethyl‐γ‐aminopropyltrimethoxysilane was used to block the remaining isocyanate groups and provide secondary amine groups for reversible adsorption of chloride ions. The structure of KWPU was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), 1H NMR, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Particle size and zeta potential were tested to evaluate the emulsion stability. The research results showed that when the N‐methyl diethanolamine content was 14%, the water absorption rate of KWPU film was 82.1%, and when the KH‐792 content was 6%, the water absorption rate of KWPU was 34.8%. The addition of siloxane can significantly improve the thermal resistance of the KWPU film. The color fastness of the dyed nylon fabric treated with KWPU emulsion was significantly improved, the rubbing fastness was improved by 0.5 or 1 grade, the washing fastness was improved by 1 grade, and the fastness to chlorinated water was improved by 1.5 or 2 grade.
Evaluation of liquid rubber content and molecular weight on rheological properties of asphalt
Authors: Li Chen , Ma Feng , Fu Zhen , Dai Jiasheng , Shi Ke , Wen Yalu
Published: December 2021

To evaluate the effect of liquid styrene‐butadiene rubber (LSBR) on the rheological performance of bitumen, LSBRs with molecular weights of 20,000 (LA) and 50,000 g/mol (LB) are blended into the virgin bitumen. The rheological effect regarding LSBR content and the molecular weight of the bitumen was then conducted by dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) test and a bending beam rheometer (BBR) test, respectively. Short‐term and long‐term aging tests were used to simulate the asphalt aging with modification of LSBR, and the variations of asphalts function groups were detected by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). Results indicate that LSBR reduces the rutting and ageing resistance of the virgin bitumen. However, the blended LA and LB extensively enhance the crack resistance at low temperatures. Moreover, the LB modifier improves the fatigue performance of the asphalt more evidently, followed by LA, particularly at 2% mixing content (by weight of the virgin). Compared with LA, the added LB causes more deteriorating impact bitumen's rutting resistance, whereas LB increases the crack resistance at low temperatures. Of note, the LB‐modified bitumen exhibits less ageing sensitivity than the LA‐modified bitumen under a short‐term ageing simulation. However, the LA‐modified bitumen is less sensitive to the long‐term ageing test.
Adaptive responses of freshwater pearl mussels, Margaritifera margaritifera, to managed drawdowns
Authors: Curley Edward A.M. , Thomas Rhian , Adams Colin E. , Stephen Alastair
Published: December 2021

Alterations to water management practices, in response to a growing demand to maximize energy production from renewable sources, threaten to exacerbate anticipated future water shortages caused by severe drought episodes, brought on by climate change.

Across Scotland, many highly managed systems are inhabited by some of the last remaining reproductively viable populations of the freshwater pearl mussel, Margaritifera margaritifera. A lack of empirical evidence concerning mussel responses to alterations in flow is inhibiting the development of effective conservation management practices to prolonged drought.

This study addressed this knowledge gap by examining the response of M. margaritifera to controlled water level drawdowns in laboratory and field settings. Using a laboratory flume, the responses of M. margaritifera from two different populations (a regulated system versus an unregulated system) were compared across rates of drawdown and density treatments. An analogous field trial was undertaken to examine the responses of M. margaritifera in a regulated system, with a hydroelectric dam facilitating a controlled drawdown.

The study showed that M. margaritifera can detect alterations in flow depth, which culminate in the emersion of mussel beds, and respond by undertaking vertical and horizontal movements to mitigate the risk of prolonged aerial exposure. Results from the field trial corroborated findings from the flume experiments, with 80% of mussels shown to avoid emersion successfully by tracking receding water levels.

Findings from this study support the role of controlled drawdowns in regulated rivers to reduce mortalities associated with receding water levels during prolonged low‐flow episodes. Differences between populations in response highlight a need to adopt a context‐dependent approach to conservation efforts.
Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of coumarin analogs as novel LSD1 inhibitors
Authors: Sun Yixiang , Lv Ruicheng , Wu Tianxiao , Zhang Xiangyu , Sun Yin , Yan Jiangkun , Zhang Ziheng , Zhao Dongmei , Cheng Maosheng
Published: December 2021

The abnormal expression of lysine‐specific histone demethylase 1 (LSD1) is associated with different cancer types, and it is increasingly recognized as a potential therapeutic target in oncology. Here, utilizing core hopping and conformational restriction strategies, we designed and synthesized a series of coumarin analogs that were shown to be potent LSD1 inhibitors in the enzyme assay. Furthermore, several potent compounds were selected to evaluate their antiproliferative activity on A549 cells and MGC‐803 cells with high expression of LSD1. Among them,YX10showed an anticlonogenic effect on A549 cells and MGC‐803 cells, with IC50values of 1.52 ± 0.16 and 0.98 ± 0.18 μM, respectively. Modeling suggested that the inhibitors would bind to the active site of the protein located around the key residues of Asp555 and Lys661. Meanwhile, a preliminary druggability evaluation showed that compoundYX10showed favorable liver microsomal and moderate plasma stability and weak inhibitory activity against cytochrome P450 isoforms at 10 μM. All the results indicated that compoundYX10could represent a promising lead compound for further development.
Targeting VEGFR‐2 by new quinoxaline derivatives: Design, synthesis, antiproliferative assay, apoptosis induction, and in silico studies
Authors: Alsaif Nawaf A. , Mahdy Hazem A. , Alanazi Mohammed M. , Obaidullah Ahmad J. , Alkahtani Hamad M. , Al‐Hossaini Abdullah M. , Al‐Mehizi Abdulrahman A. , Elwan Alaa , Taghour Mohammed S.
Published: December 2021

Twelve new triazolo[4,3‐a]quinoxaline‐based compounds are reported as anticancer agents with potential effects against vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (VEGFR‐2), using sorafenib as a reference molecule. With sorafenib as the positive control, the antiproliferative effects of the synthesized compounds against MCF‐7 and HepG2 cells, as well as their VEGFR‐2‐inhibitory activities, were assessed. The most powerful VEGFR‐2 inhibitor was compound14a, which had an IC50value of 3.2 nM, which is very close to that of sorafenib (IC50 = 3.12 nM). Furthermore, compounds14cand15dshowed potential inhibitory activity against VEGFR‐2, with IC50values of 4.8 and 5.4 nM, respectively. Compound14acaused apoptosis in HepG2 cells and stopped the cell cycle at the G2/M phase. In HepG2 cells, it also increased the levels of the proteases caspase‐3 and caspase‐9, as well as the Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio. In silico ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) and toxicity experiments revealed that the synthesized agents had acceptable drug‐likeness.
Use of multivariate distance measures for high‐dimensional data in tests for difference, superiority, equivalence and non‐inferiority
Authors: Kropf Siegfried , Antweiler Kai , Glimm Ekkehard
Published: December 2021

Tests based on pairwise distance measures for multivariate sample vectors are common in ecological studies but are usually restricted to two‐sided tests for differences. In this paper, we investigate extensions to tests for superiority, equivalence and non‐inferiority.
Descriptive versus general praise with and without edibles for acquisition in young children
Authors: Kamana Bertilde U. , Dozier Claudia L. , Foley Elizabeth A. , Hubbs Amber N.
Published: December 2021

Previous research comparing the effects of descriptive and general praise on the acquisition of skills has yielded mixed outcomes. We attempted to replicate extend previous research by (a) isolating the effects of the different types of praise for acquisition of skills in eight preschool children and (b) determining child preference for the different types of praise. However, only two participants consistently acquired target skills (with negligible differences across the different types of praise); six of the eight participants did not consistently acquire target skills with either type of praise. Therefore, we added edibles to increase the efficacy of praise for these six participants. Results showed that all six participants acquired more skills when edibles were added. Furthermore, two of the six participants for whom we added edibles showed acquisition under particular conditions after a history with edibles. Results of the preference evaluation showed idiosyncratic outcomes across the seven participants with whom it was conducted.
Rational hinge engineering of carboxylic acid reductase from Mycobacterium smegmatis enhances its catalytic efficiency in biocatalysis
Authors: Wang Liuzhu , Sun Yangyang , Diao Shiqing , Jiang Shuiqin , Wang Hualei , Wei Dongzhi
Published: December 2021

Background: Carboxylic acid reductases (CARs) represent useful tools for the production of aldehydes from ubiquitous organic carboxylic acids. However, the low catalytic efficiency of these enzymes hampers their application.

Methods: Herein, a CAR originating from Mycobacterium smegmatis was redesigned through rational hinge engineering to enhance the catalytic efficiency.

Results: Based on the unique domain architecture of CARs and their superfamily, a mutagenesis library of the hinge region was designed. The best mutant R505I/N506K showed a 6.57‐fold improved catalytic efficiency. Molecular dynamics simulations showed the increased catalytic efficiency was due to the strong binding of the acyl‐AMP complex with it. Meanwhile, the ε‐nitrogen atom of Lys610 frequently interacted with the ribose‐ring oxygen atom of the complex, the distance (d1) between them represents a great indicator for that. The d1 value was used as a nimble indicator to evaluate unexplored mutants of that region for enhanced activity by in silico mutational experiments. Overall, eight mutants were identified to show higher enhanced activity compared with wild‐type enzyme and R505F/N506G showed the highest catalytic efficiency.

Conclusion: Altogether, the two‐step strategy used here provided useful references for the engineering of CARs and other similar multiple‐domain enzymes.
An undergraduate laboratory experiment with real‐world applications: Utilizing templateless polymerase chain reaction and real‐time polymerase chain reaction to test for SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA
Authors: Crane Julia , Page Shallee T.
Published: December 2021

We present a course‐embedded undergraduate research module that involves real‐time polymerase chain reaction testing for the presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 in environmental samples. A positive control RNA was constructed and two RNA extraction methods were compared and a range of primers were available to compare. Using a combination of published protocols, we assembled a successful project that illustrated a topical exercise similar to real‐world assay development. The exercise is aimed at upper‐level undergraduates and requires 3 weeks of laboratory periods. The students were able to design and test experimental protocols, while learning about RNA detection. This project could be utilized in upper‐level classes including molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or for independent research projects.
Demoralisation and its link with depression, psychological adjustment and suicidality among cancer patients: A network psychometrics approach
Authors: Bobevski Irene , Kissane David W. , Vehling Sigrun , Mehnert‐Theuerkauf Anja , Belvederi Murri Martino , Grassi Luigi
Published: December 2021

Background

Demoralisation is a clinically significant problem among cancer patients with a prevalence of 13%–18%. It is defined by difficulty in adjusting to a stressor, wherein the person feels trapped in their predicament and experiences helplessness, hopelessness, loss of confidence and loss of meaning in life. Demoralisation has a strong link with the desire for hastened death and suicidal ideation among the medically ill. This study explored whether a group of symptoms could be identified, distinct from depression, but consistent with adjustment difficulties with demoralisation and linked to ideation of death and suicide.

Methods

Exploratory Graph Analysis, a network psychometrics technique, was conducted on a large German study of 1529 cancer patients. Demoralisation was measured with the Demoralisation Scale II and depressive symptoms with the PHQ‐9.

Results

A network of symptoms, with four stable communities, was identified: 1. Loss of hope and meaning; 2. Non‐specific emotionality; 3. Entrapment; 4. Depressive symptoms. The first three communities were clearly distinct from the PHQ‐9 depressive symptoms, except for suicidality and fear of failure. Community 1, Loss of hope and meaning, had the strongest association with thoughts of death and suicide. Hopelessness, loss of role in life, tiredness, pointlessness and feeling trapped were the most central symptoms in the network.

Conclusions

Communities 1 to 3 are consistent with poor coping without anhedonia and other classic depression symptoms, but linked to suicidal ideation. For people facing the existential threat of cancer, this may indicate poor psychological adjustment to the stressors of their illness.
Survival outcomes of combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma compared with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A SEER population‐based cohort study
Authors: Yang Zhen , Shi Guangjun
Published: December 2021

Background

Combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma (CHC) is a heterogeneous group of primary liver cancers characterized by the coexistence of both hepatic and biliary cellular contents. The aim of this study was to compare CHC and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) and investigate the treatment and survival of patients with CHC.

Methods

Data on CHC and ICC, including clinicopathological characteristics, treatments, and survival outcomes were extracted from the SEER database between 2004 and 2016. Univariate and multivariate analyses of all data were performed to identify the risk factors associated with survival outcomes. The overall survival (OS) rates of CHC patients who underwent hepatic resection (HR) or liver transplantation (LT) were also assessed before and after propensity score matching.

Results

A total of 1066 consecutive patients who had been diagnosed with CHC (n = 286) or ICC (n = 780) were identified. The mean age of the CHC cohort was 60.8±10.7 years old. Among the CHC group, a large proportion of the patients were men and of White ethnicity (73.1% and 71.3%, respectively). The majority of tumors were poorly differentiated (37.8%), while the most common AJCC stage at presentation was stage I (31.4%). Multivariable analysis of all CHC patients revealed that only tumor size, M1 stage, AJCC stage IIIC, AJCC stage IV, surgery, and chemotherapy were significantly associated with OS. The OS was comparable with the ICC in the initial 36 months and better in the subsequent follow‐up after treatment. Surgery was associated with better survival outcomes, whether in the early or advanced stages. Regarding the specific types of surgery, the OS rates were similar in selected patients following HR or LT.

Conclusion

In patients with CHC, surgical intervention resulted in better long‐term survival outcomes than nonsurgical treatments. The OS rate of CHC patients compared with that of ICC patients was discriminated before and after a 3‐year follow‐up.