bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occupational cancer burden: the contribution of exposure to process‐generated substances at the workplace
Authors: Olsson Ann , Kromhout Hans
Published: February 2021

Respirable crystalline silica in mineral dust, wood dust, diesel engine exhaust emissions and welding fumes are among the most common process‐generated substances to which millions of workers are exposed daily. The composition of process‐generated substances can vary substantially, depending on the parameters of the underlying processes; for example, the composition and intensity of diesel motor emissions differs among the various generations of diesel engines and working environments (e.g. surface or underground mining). We illustrate how common these occupational exposures are and discuss challenges in estimating their global prevalence and their contribution to the burden of occupational cancer. Estimates of the number and proportion of workers exposed in most countries and on a global scale are generally scarce. A remarkable exception is based on the proactive bottom‐up estimates generated within the European Network for Silica. Actions to reduce exposures and research to fill gaps in knowledge adapted to local settings are warranted to mitigate the occupational cancer burden, especially in under‐researched settings including low‐ and middle‐income countries.
Trends in Permanent Work Disability Associated With Rheumatoid Arthritis in the United States, 1999–2015
Authors: Ward Michael M.
Published: February 2021

Objective

Advances in treatment over the past 20 years have resulted in improved control of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The objective of our study was to investigate whether there has been a decrease in permanent work disability associated with RA in the US.

Methods

Medicare data from 1999 to 2015 were used to identify beneficiaries age 20–59 years with RA who became eligible for Medicare coverage under Social Security Disability Insurance. Diagnosis of RA was based on physician claims in the first year of enrollment. Annual rates of enrollment were sex‐ and age‐standardized to the 2000 US population.

Results

The study included 97,787 beneficiaries with RA and Social Security Disability Insurance across all years. Medicare enrollment was 26.0 per million in 1999 and 26.0 per million in 2015. Rates increased following the Great Recession of 2008–2009 before returning to prerecession levels. There was no linear trend over time after adjusting for the annual national unemployment rate (relative risk 0.99 per year [95% confidence interval 0.99–1.00]; P = 0.69). Risks of work disability were much higher among workers over age 50 years.

Conclusion

Based on Medicare enrollment by recipients of Social Security Disability Insurance, there was no decrease in permanent work disability among young and middle‐age workers with RA in the US between 1999 and 2015.
Influence of Glucose on Corrosion Fatigue and Cytocompatibility of Mg–Zn–Zr–Y Alloy
Authors: Liu Ying , Liu Zhaogang , Liu Lubin , Xue Haowei , Wang Qiang , Zhang Dan
Published: February 2021

This article mainly focuses on the effects of glucose on the mechanical safety and cytotoxicity of Mg alloys used as implant materials. Under the corrosive human body fluid and dynamic loading, especially in a high‐glucose environment, Mg alloys are inevitably subjected to the decrease of mechanical properties in the process of long‐time service and eventually faced with corrosion fatigue (CF) failure. Herein, a comparative study on the dynamic mechanical properties of the Mg–Zn–Zr–Y alloy is evaluated by carrying out fatigue tests in air and in Hank's solution. CF and cytocompatibility of Mg–Zn–Zr–Y alloys response to different glucose contents (1 and 3 g L−1) are also detected. The Mg–Zn–Zr–Y alloy exhibits an excellent fatigue limit of 119.43 MPa in air compared with 47.77 MPa in Hank's solution at 37 °C. The fatigue cracks initiate at the microstructural defects in air and nucleate at corrosion pits in Hank's solution. Better corrosion resistance and enhanced CF are obtained with the increasing glucose content in Hank's solution. The in vitro tests with MC3T3‐E1 cells demonstrate that the Mg–Zn–Zr–Y alloy shows excellent cytocompatibility under high‐glucose condition.
Achieving Exceptional High Ductility in Binary Mg–6Zn Alloy Wire by Grain Boundary Strengthening and Twinning‐Induced Plasticity
Authors: Yan Kai , Cheng Honghui , Liu Yi , Liu Huan , Fang Shuangquan , Bai Jing
Published: February 2021

Mg–6Zn alloy wires are prepared by the combination of hot direction extrusion and multi‐pass hot drawing. The tensile results show that this technology achieves an exceptional tensile elongation of about 18%, as well as the yield strength of 175 MPa and the ultimate tensile strength of 310 MPa when the drawing temperature is 350 °C. Meanwhile, it also exhibits the highest strain‐hardening data compared with the other wire samples. The microstructure characterizations show that the near single‐phase α‐Mg microstructure with the MgZn2 nanoprecipitates on grain boundaries and it can significantly produce twin intersections and stacking faults under cold bending deformation. The exceptional high elongation can be attributed to the grain boundary strengthening of nanoprecipitates and twinning‐induced plasticity.
Alumina‐Protected, Durable and Photostable Zinc Sulfide Particles from Scalable Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Lange Thomas , Reichenberger Sven , Rohe Markus , Bartsch Mathias , Kampermann Laura , Klein Julian , Strunk Jennifer , Bacher Gerd , Schlögl Robert , Barcikowski Stephan
Published: February 2021

Zinc sulfide has unique and easily modifiable photophysical properties and is a promising candidate for photocatalysis and optoelectronic devices. However, ZnS suffers from corrosive decomposition during excitation processes like UV irradiation, which drastically limits its field of potential applications. For the first time, complete photostabilization of individual ZnS particles by a dense, durable, and only 3‐nm‐thick Al2O3 layer, produced by rotary atomic layer deposition (ALD) is reported. In contrast to bare ZnS, the coated particles do not suffer from photocorrosive degradation even under long‐term or high power UV irradiation. The presence of a protection layer covering the entire ZnS surface is additionally confirmed by microscopic and spectroscopic investigations of particle cross‐sections. Further, complete inhibition of the reaction between Ag+ ions added as the analyte and the ZnS surface is observed. Durability tests of the as‐prepared Al2O3 layer upon prolonged exposure to water reveal a significant decrease in the protection capability of the layer, which is ascribed to the hydrolysis of the amorphous Al2O3. A calcination step at 1000 °C after the ALD treatment, which leads to crystallization of the amorphous Al2O3 layer, successfully suppresses this hydrolysis and produces an insulating, dense, and inert protection layer.
Recent Advances in Terahertz Photonic Technologies Based on Graphene and Their Applications
Authors: Guo Tianjing , Argyropoulos Christos
Published: February 2021

Graphene is a unique 2D material that has been extensively investigated due to its extraordinary photonic, electronic, thermal, and mechanical properties. Excited plasmons along its surface and other unique features are expected to play an important role in many emerging photonic technologies with drastically improved and tunable functionalities. This review is focused on presenting several recently introduced photonic phenomena based on graphene, beyond its usual linear response, such as nonlinear, active, topological, and nonreciprocal effects. The physical mechanisms and various envisioned photonic applications corresponding to these novel intriguing functionalities are also reported. The presented graphene‐based technologies promise to revolutionize the field of photonics at the relatively unexplored terahertz (THz) frequency range. They are envisioned to lead to the design of compact harmonic generators, low‐power wave mixers, linear and nonlinear sensors, magnet‐free isolators and circulators, photonic topological insulators, modulators, compact coherent optical radiation sources, and subwavelength imaging devices.
Dendritic Zn Deposition in Zinc‐Metal Batteries and Mitigation Strategies
Authors: Jabbari Vahid , Foroozan Tara , Shahbazian-Yassar Reza
Published: February 2021

As one of the most promising energy storage technologies, zinc (Zn)‐metal batteries (ZMBs) have attracted significant attention due to outstanding properties of Zn, including high energy density (820 mAh g−1/5855 mAh cm−3), abundance, low cost, low reactivity, multielectron redox capacity, compatibility with aqueous electrolytes, low equilibrium potential (−0.76 V vs SHE), stability, safety, and environmental benignity. Yet, the existence of some major issues such as surface‐originated parasitic reactions (e.g., corrosion and H2 evolution), formation of dead Zn, and oxide passivation leading to capacity loss in ZMBs are hindering their full potential applications. Addressing these challenges requires profound understanding of mechanism of Zn dendrites formation. Therefore, the aim of the current study is to assess some of the latest challenges and advancements concerning ZMBs, with an emphasis on origin and growth mechanism of Zn dendrites. Herein, it is demonstrated that the Zn electrodeposition does not follow a simple reaction/diffusion limited behavior, and other parameters such as surface energy and surface diffusion barrier play great roles on the morphology and microstructure of the deposited Zn. In addition, recent advances to mitigate Zn dendrite issues by applying modifications on the design of electrode, electrolyte, separator and interface are discussed.
High‐Efficiency Photothermal Water Evaporation using Broadband Solar Energy Harvesting by Ultrablack Silicon Structures
Authors: Cheng Pengfei , Wang Honglei , Wang Hongguang , van Aken Peter A. , Wang Dong , Schaaf Peter
Published: February 2021

Development of broadband absorption materials for solar energy harvesting is an important strategy to address global energy issues. Herein, it is demonstrated that an ultrablack silicon structure with abundant surface texturing can absorb about 98.7% solar light within the wavelength range of 300 to 2500 nm, i.e., a very large range and amount. Under 1 sun irradiation, the ultrablack silicon sample's surface temperature can increase from 21.2 to 51.2 °C in 15 min. During the photothermal water evaporation process, the ultrablack silicon sample's surface temperature can still reach a highest temperature of 43.2 °C. The average photothermal conversion efficiency (PTCE) can be as high as 72.96%. The excellent photothermal performance to the excellent light‐trapping ability of the pyramidal surface nanostructures during solar illumination, which leads to extremely efficient absorption of light, is attributed. In addition, the large water contact area also enables fast vapor transport. The stability of the photothermal converter is also examined, presenting excellent structure and performance stabilities over 10 cycles. This indicates that the ultrablack Si absorber can be a promising photothermal conversion material for seawater desalination, water purification, photothermal therapy, and more.
Magnetic Nanocomposite Hydrogels for Directing Myofibroblast Activity in Adipose‐Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Islam Md Shariful , Molley Thomas G. , Ireland Jake , Kruzic Jamie J. , Kilian Kristopher A.
Published: February 2021

Dynamic cell‐culture materials that can change mechanical properties in response to extrinsic stimuli are emerging as promising tools for cell and tissue engineering research. However, most of these techniques involve a one‐way stiffening or softening through changes in the materials chemistry, which does not allow reversibility. Here, the incorporation of superparamagnetic iron‐oxide nanoparticles within poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels as dynamic cell culture materials is demonstrated. Using simple permanent magnets and adipose‐derived stem cells, a near twofold increase in cell spread area and an accompanying 20% enrichment in cells expressing alpha‐smooth muscle actin is seen. This platform provides a means to study relationships between dynamic stiffening and cell behavior, using permanent magnets and clinically viable composite materials, with scope for use as a tool to enrich the myofibroblast population in stromal cells.
Precise Pore Space Partitions Combined with High‐Density Hydrogen‐Bonding Acceptors within Metal–Organic Frameworks for Highly Efficient Acetylene Storage and Separation
Authors: Xue Ying‐Ying , Bai Xiao‐Ying , Zhang Jing , Wang Ying , Li Shu‐Ni , Jiang Yu‐Cheng , Hu Man‐Cheng , Zhai Quan‐Guo
Published: February 2021

The high storage capacity versus high selectivity trade‐off barrier presents a daunting challenge to practical application as an acetylene (C2H2) adsorbent. A structure–performance relationship screening for sixty‐two high‐performance metal–organic framework adsorbents reveals that a moderate pore size distribution around 5.0–7.5 Å is critical to fulfill this task. A precise pore space partition approach was involved to partition 1D hexagonal channels of typical MIL‐88 architecture into finite segments with pore sizes varying from 4.5 Å (SNNU‐26) to 6.4 Å (SNNU‐27), 7.1 Å (SNNU‐28), and 8.1 Å (SNNU‐29). Coupled with bare tetrazole N sites (6 or 12 bare N sites within one cage) as high‐density H‐bonding acceptors for C2H2, the target MOFs offer a good combination of high C2H2/CO2adsorption selectivity and high C2H2uptake capacity in addition to good stability. The optimized SNNU‐27‐Fe material demonstrates a C2H2uptake of 182.4 cm3 g−1and an extraordinary C2H2/CO2dynamic breakthrough time up to 91 min g−1under ambient conditions.
The Sandarazols are Cryptic and Structurally Unique Plasmid‐Encoded Toxins from a Rare Myxobacterium**
Authors: Panter Fabian , Bader Chantal D. , Müller Rolf
Published: February 2021

Herein, we describe a new plasmid found in Sandaracinus sp. MSr10575 named pSa001 spanning 209.7 kbp that harbors a cryptic secondary metabolite biosynthesis gene cluster (BGC). Activation of this BGC by homologous‐recombination‐mediated exchange of the native promoter sequence against a vanillate inducible system led to the production and subsequent isolation and structure elucidation of novel secondary metabolites, the sandarazols A–G. The sandarazols contain intriguing structural features and very reactive functional groups such as an α‐chlorinated ketone, an epoxyketone, and a (2R)‐2‐amino‐3‐(N,N‐dimethylamino)‐propionic acid building block. In‐depth investigation of the underlying biosynthetic machinery led to a concise biosynthetic model for the new compound family, including several uncommon biosynthetic steps. The chlorinated congener sandarazol C shows an IC50 value of 0.5 μm against HCT 116 cells and a MIC of 14 μm against Mycobacterium smegmatis, which points at the sandarazols’ potential function as defensive secondary metabolites or toxins.
Direct Catalytic Asymmetric Addition of Alkylnitriles to Aldehydes with Designed Nickel–Carbene Complexes
Authors: Saito Akira , Adachi Shinya , Kumagai Naoya , Shibasaki Masakatsu
Published: February 2021

A direct catalytic asymmetric addition of acetonitrile to aldehydes that realizes over 90 % ee is the ultimate challenge in alkylnitrile addition chemistry. Herein, we report achieving high enantioselectivity by the strategic use of a sterically demanding NiII pincer carbene complex, which afforded highly enantioenriched β‐hydroxynitriles. This highly atom‐economical process paves the way for exploiting inexpensive acetonitrile as a promising C2 building block in a practical synthetic toolbox for asymmetric catalysis.
Characterizing the coalescence area of conjoined twins to elucidate congenital disorders in singletons
Authors: Boer Lucas L. , Schepens‐Franke Annelieke N. , Winter Eduard , Oostra Roelof‐Jan
Published: February 2021

Shared anomalies, always located close to the area of coalescence and observable in virtually every type of conjoined twinning, are currently seen as separate anomalies caused by mostly unknown and seemingly unrelated pathways rather than being connected to the twinning mechanism itself. Therefore, most (case) reports about conjoined twins are mere descriptions of (external) dysmorphologies lacking reflections on the possible origin of their concomitant anomalies. As we will demonstrate in this article, shared anomalies are influenced, and in some cases solely and sequentially explained, by interaction aplasia and neo‐axial orientation; two embryological mechanisms to which each set of conjoined twins is subjected and are responsible for their ultimate phenotypical fate. In this review, we consider how the ventral, lateral and caudal conjunction types and their intermediates determine the phenotypic presentation of the twins, including patterns of shared malformations and anomalies, which in themselves can be indistinguishable from those encountered in singleton cases. Hence, it can be hypothesized that certain anomalies in singletons originate in a fashion similar to that in conjoined twins.
Partially resorbed unremoved silk sutures after tooth extraction: A unique Case report
Authors: Ertem Sinan Yasin
Published: February 2021

Suturation may remain in the mouth for a long time due to incomplete information to patients due to inadvertency. Forgotten silk sutures might be sunk and cause irritation into the alveolar mucosa.
Enhanced Sodium‐Ion Storage Performance of a 2D MoS2 Anode Material Coated on Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Li Wanying , Bashir Tariq , Wang Jiaqi , Zhou Shaowen , Yang Shiqi , Zhao Jianqing , Gao Lijun
Published: February 2021

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is considered a promising anode material for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). However, it suffers from poor kinetics and rapid capacity decay. In this work, a coaxial heterostructure composed of MoS2 nanosheets coated on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is reported, where the MoS2 layers are less stacked at the surface of the CNTs substrate with an enhanced interlayer spacing, which is prepared through a simple one‐pot hydrothermal preparation. The MoS2@CNTs composite material is proven to have superior rate performance as an anode material for SIBs, which delivers 508, 418, 359, 305, 258, and 183 mAh/g at current densities of 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, and 5 A/g, respectively, together with excellent cycling stability to retain 360 mAh/g after 400 cycles at 0.5 A/g, owing to the robust combination of MoS2 and CNT components. This work offers a way to synthesize heterostructured composite materials with great performance superiority for large‐scale energy storage systems.
Limiting Current Density of Oxygen Reduction under Ultrathin Electrolyte Layers: From the Micrometer Range to Monolayers
Authors: Zhong Xiankang , Schulz (née Uebel) Matthias , Wu Chun‐Hung , Rabe Martin , Erbe Andreas , Rohwerder Michael
Published: February 2021

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) under ultrathin electrolyte layers is a key reaction in many processes, from atmospheric corrosion to energy conversion in fuel cells. However, the ORR current under ultrathin electrolyte layers is difficult to measure using conventional electrochemical methods. Hence, reliable data are scarce for the micrometer range and totally missing for the sub‐micrometer range of the electrolyte layer thickness. Here, we report a novel hydrogen‐permeation‐based approach to measure the ORR current underneath thin and ultrathin electrolyte layers. By using a Kelvin‐probe‐based measurement of the potential, which results from dynamic equilibrium of oxygen reduction and hydrogen oxidation, and the corresponding hydrogen charging current density, the full current‐potential relationship can be constructed. The results shed a new light on the nature of the limiting current density of ORR underneath ultrathin layers of electrolyte.
Continuous Flow Synthesis of Metal–NHC Complexes**
Authors: Simoens Andreas , Scattolin Thomas , Cauwenbergh Thibault , Pisanò Gianmarco , Cazin Catherine S. J. , Stevens Christian V. , Nolan Steven P.
Published: February 2021

The use of weak bases and mild conditions is currently the most sustainable and attractive synthetic approach for the preparation of late‐transition metal complexes, some of which are widely used in catalysis, medicinal chemistry and materials science. Herein, the use of cuprate, aurate or palladate species for a continuous flow preparation of CuI, AuI and PdII‐NHC complexes is reported. All reactions examined proceed under extremely mild conditions and make use of technical grade acetone as solvent. The scalability of the process was exemplified in a multigram‐scale synthesis of [Cu(IPr)Cl].
Gravity mass powder flow through conical hoppers ‐ Part II: A mathematical model predicting the axial and radial profiles of normal stresses from flow velocity measurements
Authors: Chaib Oumaima , Achouri Ines E. , Gosselin Ryan , Abatzoglou Nicolas
Published: February 2021

In Part I of this work, a semi‐empirical equation was developed to predict the radial velocity profile of gravity‐driven, free‐flowing powders in conical hoppers. Phenomenological cohesion and adhesion parameters, such as friction angles as well as hopper angle, are the independent variables of this equation. This second part is an extension of the Janssen analysis predicting the axial profile of the applied normal stress. Force balances in cylindrical coordinates are performed for the conical gravity flows. The resulting partial differential equations are complemented by Newton's law, which links the normal stresses with velocity vectors presenting axial and radial components. The proposed model is in agreement with the available literature on normal stress profiles.
Tuning the Molecular Weight of Chlorine‐Substituted Polymer Donors for Small Energy Loss†
Authors: Zhao Tingxing , Wang Huan , Pu Mingrui , Lai Hanjian , Chen Hui , Zhu Yulin , Zheng Nan , He Feng
Published: February 2021

Main observation and conclusion

The molecular weight of polymers plays a major role in their aggregation and miscibility in active layer, which eventually dominate the energy loss and device performance. A series of chlorine‐substituted PBD‐Cl polymers with controlled molecular weight have been synthesized as templates to discern a relationship between molecular weight and the optical properties, energy levels, morphologies, energy loss and photovoltaic performance. Although it has similar optical and electrochemical properties, when blended with acceptor N3, the low molecular weight polymer PBD‐ClL gives the biggest energy loss value, and a PCE of 12.06%. PBD‐ClH shows a moderate energy loss, but displays the lowest PCE of 9.00% as a result of excessive aggregation. PBD‐ClM with a medium molecular weight gives the smallest energy loss and achieves a PCE of 17.17%, which is among one of the highest values recorded to date for the Cl‐substituted polymer solar cells. Moreover, the molecular weight mainly affects the nonradiative energy loss (ΔE3), PBD‐ClM also shows the smallest value of 0.252 eV among three polymer donors. These results show the effect of controlling the molecular weight to achieve a small energy loss and provide guidelines which can lead to an understanding of the real photovoltaic performance of new materials.
X‐ray powder diffraction in school – more than ONE possibility!
Authors: Rinke Matthias T. , Kleining Lara , Pröbsting Wilma
Published: February 2021

Es werden verschiedene Möglichkeiten vorgestellt, die Röntgenpulverdiffraktometrie als analytische Methode in der Schule einzusetzen – auch schon in der Sekundarstufe I. Anhand der Diffraktogramme von drei kristallinen Verbindungen und eines in der Schule herstellbaren Glases werden Vorschläge für den Einsatz im Unterricht gemacht und Bezüge zu den entsprechenden Basiskompetenzen der aktuellen Lehrpläne hergestellt.
Blue precipitation – Color reaction where the solvent polarity changes in a thermochromic three‐component mixture
Authors: Jonas Albert , Rubner Isabel , Oetken Marco
Published: February 2021

Thermochrome Gemische sind so konzipiert, dass unter Wärmeeinfluss ein Farbbildner durch geeignete chemische Reaktion mit einem Entwickler reversibel oder irreversibel von einem farblosen in einen farbigen Zustand überführt wird. In einem einfachen Experiment wird hier der Einfluss der Umgebungspolarität auf das Farbverhalten von thermochromen Gemischen gezeigt. Im unpolaren Lösemittel liegt der Farbbildner phasengetrennt von einer festen Phase des Entwicklers vor. Durch Zugabe eines polaren Lösemittels lösen sich Teile des Entwicklers darin auf und überführen diesen in die flüssige Phase des Farbbildners, wodurch die farbige Entwickler‐Farbstoff‐Komplexverbindung entsteht, die in der polaren Phase stabilisiert wird. Eine weitere Zugabe des polaren Lösemittels führt aber zur Auflösung des metastabilen Entwickler‐Farbstoff‐Komplexes, da der Entwickler im Lösemittelgemisch deutlich besser löslich ist, womit erneut der farblose Farbbildner vorliegt. Dieses ästhetische Experiment liefert einen motivierenden Einstieg in die Thematik der thermochromen Gemische.
The Role of Chronic Inflammation in Various Diseases and Anti‐inflammatory Therapies Containing Natural Products
Authors: Wang Ren‐Xiao , Zhou Mi , Ma Hui‐Lai , Qiao Yuan‐Biao , Li Qing‐Shan
Published: February 2021

Chronic inflammation represents a long‐term reaction of the body's immune system to noxious stimuli. Such a sustained inflammatory response sometimes results in lasting damage to healthy tissues and organs. In fact, chronic inflammation is implicated in the development and progression of various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, metabolic diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and even cancers. Targeting nonresolving inflammation thus provides new opportunities for treating relevant diseases. In this review, we will go over several chronic inflammation‐associated diseases first with emphasis on the role of inflammation in their pathogenesis. Then, we will summarize a number of natural products that exhibit therapeutic effects against those diseases by acting on different markers in the inflammatory response. We envision that natural products will remain a rich resource for the discovery of new drugs treating diseases associated with chronic inflammation.
Elucidating the Influence of Electrical Potentials on the Formation of Charged Oligopeptide Self‐Assembled Monolayers on Gold
Authors: Gibson Joshua S. , Mendes Paula M.
Published: February 2021

Self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) based on oligopeptides have garnered immense interest for a wide variety of innovative biomedical and electronic applications. However, to exploit their full potential, it is necessary to understand and control the surface chemistry of oligopeptides. Herein, we report on how different electrical potentials affect the adsorption kinetics, stability and surface coverage of charged oligopeptide SAMs on gold surfaces. Kinetic analysis using electrochemical surface plasmon resonance (e‐SPR) reveals a slower oligopeptide adsorption rate at more positive or negative electrical potentials. Additional analysis of the potential‐assisted formed SAMs by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy demonstrates that an applied electrical potential has minimal effect on the packing density. These findings not only reveal that charged oligopeptides exhibit a distinct potential‐assisted assembly behaviour but that an electrical potential offers another degree of freedom in controlling their adsorption rate.
Hydrogen Production from Methanol‐Water Mixture over Immobilized Iridium Complex Catalysts in Vapor‐Phase Flow Reaction
Authors: Yamaguchi Sho , Maegawa Yoshifumi , Fujita Ken‐ichi , Inagaki Shinji
Published: February 2021

Invited for this month's cover is the group of Shinji Inagaki from Toyota Central R&D Laboratories Inc. and Ken‐ichi Fujita from Kyoto University. The image shows iridium complexes immobilized on the channel walls of periodic mesoporous organosilica, which catalyze the dehydrogenation of a methanol–water mixture to produce hydrogen and carbon dioxide. The Full Paper itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.202002557.
Role of Fatty Acid Chemical Structures on Underlying Mechanisms of Neurodegenerative Diseases and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Koçancı Fatma Gonca
Published: February 2021

Neurodegenerative diseases have been found to be closely related to common mechanisms such as protein aggregation, neural oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and gut microbiota dysbiosis. Although there are some drugs that can temporarily reduce symptoms, there is no cure for these diseases. Therefore, the discovery of molecules that can halt the pathology of these diseases is urgently needed in the present time. Fatty acids show positive effects on the pathology of neurodegenerative diseases, depending on the degree of unsaturation and the shortness of the hydrocarbon chain. Understanding the effects of different structures of fatty acids on the underlying mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases and the balance of gut microbiota can produce positive implications for the development of future treatments. The present review focuses on the role of different fatty acids on underlying mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, gut microbiota balance, and gut–brain axis.
Disentangling the intergroup sensitivity effect: Defending the ingroup or enforcing general norms?
Authors: Thürmer J. Lukas , McCrea Sean M.
Published: February 2021

Group members reject threatening outgroup criticism compared to the same criticism from the ingroup (intergroup sensitivity effect [ISE]). Uninvolved bystanders (i.e., members of third groups) also view intergroup criticism as inappropriate. Classic ISE studies were largely underpowered, used inconsequential self‐reports, and no study has observed behavioural responses of bystanders versus ingroup members. We argued that norms may elicit self‐report responses but only social identity concerns of highly identified ingroup members should motivate costly behaviour. Contrary to our prediction, a high‐powered and pre‐registered 2 (Source: same‐group vs. outgroup) × 2 (Target: ingroup vs. uninvolved outgroup) experiment revealed a classic ISE and an even larger bystander ISE in self‐reports and behaviour, favouring a norm account. Moreover, a target effect emerged such that people were more sensitive to criticism targeting an outgroup than their ingroup. Identity thus had an impact, but not in line with social identity theory, highlighting the need for theoretical integration.
Isoelectric point determination by imaged CIEF of commercially available SARS‐CoV‐2 proteins and the hACE2 receptor
Authors: Krebs Finja , Scheller Christin , Grove‐Heike Kristina , Pohl Lena , Wätzig Hermann
Published: February 2021

In order to contribute to the scientific research on the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), we have investigated the isoelectric points (pI) of several related proteins, which are commercially available: the receptor‐binding domain (RBD) with His‐ and Fc‐tag, the S1 subunit with His‐tag, the S1/S2 subunits with His‐tag and the human angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) with His‐tag. First, the theoretical pI values, based on the amino acid (AA) sequences of the proteins, were calculated using the ProtParam tool from the Bioinformatics Resource Portal ExPASy. The proteins were then measured with the Maurice imaged CIEF system (native fluorescence detection), testing various measurement conditions, such as different ampholytes or ampholyte mixtures. Due to isoforms, we get sections with several peaks and not just one peak for each protein. The determined pI range for the RBD/Fc is 8.24–9.32 (theoretical pI: 8.55), for the RBD/His it is 7.36–9.88 (8.91) and for the S1/His it is 7.30–8.37 (7.80). The pI range of the S1/S2/His is 4.41–5.87 (no theoretical pI, AA sequence unknown) and for hACE2/His, the determined global range is 5.19–6.11 (5.60) for all experimental conditions chosen. All theoretically derived values were found within these ranges, usually close to the center. Therefore, we consider theoretical values as useful to make predictions about the isoelectric points of SARS‐CoV‐2 proteins. The experimental conditions had only a minor influence on the pI ranges obtained and mainly influenced the peak shapes.
Effects of the Gestagen Levonorgestrel in a Life Cycle Test with Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Teigeler Matthias , Schaudien Dirk , Böhmer Walter , Länge Reinhard , Schäfers Christoph
Published: February 2021

The amount of pharmaceuticals transferred to the aquatic environment via municipal and hospital waste water is steadily increasing. The progress in medical research has resulted in the manufacture of active substances of increased stability, specificity, and potency, which can trigger adverse effects in aquatic organisms. Moreover, advanced analytical methods allow the detection of pharmaceuticals in environmental matrices at very low concentrations, which increases the number of substances to be assessed. Levonorgestrel is a synthetic gestagen commonly used in medicinal products for contraception. Because progestogenic compounds could have an impact on fish maturation processes, a life cycle test was performed to assess the effects of levonorgestrel exposure of the embryonic to the adult stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio) at mean measured concentrations of 0.06, 0.16, 0.47, 1.64, and 5.45 ng/L. Apical endpoints were survival, growth, reproduction, and sex ratio. Determination of endocrine modulation was completed by measurement of vitellogenin and 11-keto testosterone in blood plasma, as well as by histopathological analysis of gonads. For all parameters, control values were within the recommended quality range. The most prominent levonorgestrel effect was a shift toward an increased number of male fish at 1.64 and especially 5.45 ng/L, at which point all fish were histologically determined to be males and no spawning occurred; 11-keto testosterone was significantly decreased. A no-observed-effect concentration (NOEC) of 0.47 ng levonorgestrel/L was confirmed by the fertilization capability of adult fish, the male maturation stages, and female gonad histopathology. Whereas hatch and juvenile growth were not affected, posthatch survival was significantly impeded at ≥0.47 ng levonorgestrel/L, although it was not clearly related to the test concentration. For male length and weight, the same NOEC of 0.16 ng/L was obtained at study termination. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:580–591. © 2021 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Effect of pH on Co‐precipitated Cu‐ZnO‐ZrO2 Catalysts Used in CO2 Hydrogenation: the Role of Zn‐malachite in the Precursors▴
Authors: Gao W. , Qu G. , Xu M, , Chang S. , Na W.
Published: February 2021

A series of Cu–ZnO–ZrO2 catalysts were prepared at different pH by co‐precipitation method and tested for the synthesis of methanol by CO2 hydrogenation. The influence of pH on the phase formation of precursor, the average Cu particle size and the interaction among different elements were discussed in detail. The activity and selectivity of the catalysts were tested for hydrogenation of carbon dioxide to methanol. When the precipitation was conducted at pH = 8.0, in addition to aurichalcite, Zn‐malachite was obviously present in the precursor and the resulting catalysts were more active. It was found that the pH exerts its effect through altering the phase composition of the precursors. The present of Zn‐malachite in the precursors facilitates the formation of more intimate interdispersion of CuO and ZnO, and the smallest Cu particle after calcination and reduction.
Photoredox Reaction of Naphthoquinone C‐Glycoside Revisited: Insight into Stereochemical Aspect
Authors: Ando Yoshio , Matsumoto Takashi , Suzuki Keisuke
Published: February 2021

Insights into the naphthoquinone photoredox reactions have been gained from the reactions of a C‐glycosyl naphthoquinone. The retentiveness comes from the balance of the lifetime of intermediary zwitterionic species relative to the conformational change to bring about the stereo‐mutating C−C bond rotation.
Performance evaluation of AODV over CSMA and TSCH
Authors: Viana Scarlet Gianasi , Vieira Luiz F. M. , Vieira Marcos A. M.
Published: February 2021

AODV (Ad hoc On‐Demand Distance Vector) is a well‐known routing protocol for wireless networks. Recently, Time Slotted Channel Hopping (TSCH) was proposed as a MAC layer protocol, specified in the IEEE 802.15.4e standard. As MAC layer protocols can impact the performance of protocols in the layers above, we examine the performance of AODV over TSCH and compare it with CSMA. We investigate using different metrics, such as latency, packet delivery rate, and energy consumption. We implemented AODV, as defined by the RFC 3561, using the embedded systems operational system Contiki‐NG, a well established platform for Low power and Lossy Networks (LLNs), and the Internet of things (IoT). Our results, running on the Cooja platform, show that TSCH can greatly improve the performance of AODV, achieving a packet delivery rate of almost 100%. Moreover, our results also show that TSCH consumes less energy than CSMA.
Tmem100- and Acta2-Lineage Cells Contribute to Implant Osseointegration in a Mouse Model
Authors: Vesprey Alexander , Suh Eun Sung , Göz Aytürk Didem , Yang Xu , Rogers Miracle , Sosa Branden , Niu Yingzhen , Kalajzic Ivo , Ivashkiv Lionel B , Bostrom Mathias PG , Ayturk Ugur M
Published: February 2021

Metal implants are commonly used in orthopedic surgery. The mechanical stability and longevity of implants depend on adequate bone deposition along the implant surface. The cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying peri-implant bone formation (ie, osseointegration) are incompletely understood. Herein, our goal was to determine the specific bone marrow stromal cell populations that contribute to bone formation around metal implants. To do this, we utilized a mouse tibial implant model that is clinically representative of human joint replacement procedures. Using a lineage-tracing approach, we found that both Acta2.creERT2 and Tmem100.creERT2 lineage cells are involved in peri-implant bone formation, and Pdgfra- and Ly6a/Sca1-expressing stromal cells (PαS cells) are highly enriched in both lineages. Single-cell RNA-seq analysis indicated that PαS cells are quiescent in uninjured bone tissue; however, they express markers of proliferation and osteogenic differentiation shortly after implantation surgery. Our findings indicate that PαS cells are mobilized to repair bone tissue and participate in implant osseointegration after surgery. Biologic therapies targeting PαS cells might improve osseointegration in patients undergoing orthopedic procedures. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
How do leaders foster morally courageous behavior in employees? Leader role modeling, moral ownership, and felt obligation
Authors: Ogunfowora Babatunde , Maerz Addison , Varty Christianne T.
Published: February 2021

Recent trends in the academic literature indicate growing interest in bottom‐up strategies for addressing workplace misconduct. Scholars argue that leaders may empower employees to speak up and engage in morally courageous behaviors (MCB) when they witness transgressions. In this research, we integrate social cognitive theory and social exchange theory to explain how and when leaders—in their capacities as role models and organizational representatives—promote employee MCB. In Study 1, we find that leader ethical role modeling influences MCB by nurturing employee moral ownership and a sense of obligation to the organization. We show that the path from moral ownership to MCB is stronger for employees with high (versus low) moral efficacy. In Study 2, we find similar results with respect to the roles of safety‐specific moral ownership and felt obligation in explaining how leader safety role modeling influences safety‐related whistleblowing, a specific form of MCB. We also replicate the moderating effect of moral efficacy on the moral ownership—whistleblowing link. However, we find an unexpected negative moderating effect on the felt obligation—whistleblowing link. We discuss the implications of these findings for understanding and promoting morally courageous behaviors in the workplace.
Independent ENSO and IOD impacts on rainfall extremes over Indonesia
Authors: Kurniadi Ari , Weller Evan , Min Seung‐Ki , Seong Min‐Gyu
Published: February 2021

Using Generalized Extreme Value analysis, this study details the independent seasonal impacts of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) on rainfall extremes that cause many hydro‐meteorological hazards and affect vulnerable populations in Indonesia, based on indices defined by the Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices (ETCCDI), for the period 1981–2019. Gridded Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station data (CHIRPS) is used to calculate maximum consecutive 5‐day precipitation (Rx5d), total precipitation from days above 95 percentile (R95p), and maximum number of consecutive dry days (CDD). Consistent with previous studies, the ENSO and IOD impacts on rainfall extremes are shown to be strongest during the dry seasons (JJA‐SON) and weaker in the wet seasons (DJF‐MAM). Rainfall extremes appear to be widely influenced throughout Indonesia by ENSO, whereby extremes become drier (wetter) during El Niño (La Niña). Similarly, positive (negative) phases of the IOD lead to more extreme dry (wet) conditions. However, distinct from previous studies, as ENSO and IOD often co‐occur, we also provide independent influences of the two climate modes. Low‐level circulation northeast and southwest of Indonesia, both previously suggested as main drivers of impacts on Maritime Continent rainfall, are more closely associated with independent ENSO and IOD, respectively. For example, ENSO, independent of IOD, impacts rainfall extremes more in the northern and eastern regions of Indonesia, and the IOD, independent of ENSO, modulates rainfall extremes more over southern and western regions. Despite independent ENSO and IOD impacts understandably being found more eastward and westward of the country, respectively, details provided here help explain regional differences between rainfall extremes and ENSO and IOD, such as Jakarta in west Java, which is predominantly influenced by local forcing associated with the IOD.
Vortex wave generation using single‐fed circular patch antenna with arc segment
Authors: Yang Guang , Liu Yongcong , Yan Yongpeng , Li Weiwen
Published: February 2021

Combined with characteristic mode analysis, the idea of degenerate mode synthesis can be used to guide the construction of a single antenna, which radiates vortex electromagnetic waves carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM). In this paper, an arc segment outside a circular patch is applied to disturb the structure symmetry to achieve a single‐fed antenna with orthogonal degenerate mode synthesis. Experimental results show that degenerated characteristic modes of circular patches radiate vortex waves one order lower than source modes. If two degenerate TM21 source modes are superimposed, the first‐order OAM mode is generated. Since the arc segment as a disturbance element is independent of the radiation element, OAM modes of different orders can be realized by adjusting its length.
Integrating ricinoleic acid derivates to thermoset polymers with tunable properties
Authors: Hernández Emanuel , Marcovich Norma E , Mosiewicki Mirna A
Published: February 2021

A highly functionalized biobased derivative of ricinoleic acid (MMRA) was synthesized through a two‐step procedure: maleinization of the hydroxyl group naturally present in this fatty acid followed by methacrylation of the carboxylic acid groups. The chemical structure of MMRA was confirmed by 1H NMR, infrared spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography and analytical determinations. Thermoset polymers were further obtained by the free radical polymerization of MMRA with different amounts of styrene. The dependence of the color/transparency and tensile properties on sample composition was evaluated. Moreover, thermogravimetric and dynamic mechanical analyses were carried out to further characterize the obtained materials. All polymers were highly translucent with lightness values in the range 87.4–90.8 and opacity values below 13%. Their glass transition temperatures (Tg) ranged from 61.5 °C for the homopolymer MMRA to 104 °C for the copolymer containing 30 wt% MMRA. The rubbery storage modulus increased with MMRA content confirming the high functionality of the green precursor that led to polymers with high crosslinking density. Notably, pronounced damping capacity was also found in all copolymers made from MMRA / styrene. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Physical therapeutic treatment for traumatic brachial plexus injury in adults: A scoping review
Authors: de Santana Chagas Alessandra Carolina , Wanderley Débora , de Oliveira Ferro Josepha Karinne , Alves de Moraes Alexa , Morais de Souza Fernando Henrique , da Silva Tenório Angélica , Araújo de Oliveira Daniella
Published: February 2021

Traumatic brachial plexus injury (BPI) is one of the most disabling injuries of the upper extremity, often requiring specialized treatment and a prolonged rehabilitation period. This scoping review was carried out to identify and describe the physical therapy modalities applied in the rehabilitation of adult individuals with BPI. Electronic databases, gray literature, and reference lists were searched, and studies meeting the following eligibility criteria were included: (a) interventions including any physical therapy modality; (b) individuals age ≥18 years old; and (c) a clinical diagnosis of BPI. The literature search yielded 681 articles of which 49 met the inclusion criteria and had their outcomes, treatment parameters, and the differences between conservative and pre‐ and postoperative treatment phases analyzed. The most commonly used physical therapy interventions were in the subfields of kinesiotherapy (ie, involving range of motion exercises, muscle stretching, and strengthening), electrothermal and phototherapy, manual therapy, and sensory re‐education strategies. Although several physical therapy modalities were identified for the treatment of BPI in this scoping review, the combination of low levels of evidence and the identified gaps regarding the treatment parameters challenge the reproducibility of such treatments in clinical practice. Therefore, future controlled clinical trials with clearer treatment protocols for individuals with BPI are needed.
Electroplated FePt Films for Micromechanical Magnetic Sensors
Authors: Toda Masaya , Xu Hao , Ono Takahito
Published: February 2021

Herein, a ferromagnetic iron–platinum (FePt) film is deposited on a Si resonator by electroplating and patterned to form a magnetic sensor. The electroplating and annealing conditions of the FePt film are optimized to achieve micromachining with lower manufacturing costs than other deposition methods. The atomic ratio of electroplated Fe to Pt is nearly 1, which is controlled by a potential of −0.75 ± 0.02 V in a standard three‐electrode electroplating system. Hydrogen annealing is performed at 750 °C, yielding an Fe‐to‐Pt atomic ratio of nearly 1 and achieving a coercivity of 0.3 T, which are measured using a vibrating sample magnetometer. The electroplated FePt film is patterned using the lift‐off method, and the cantilever is fabricated through a standard micromachining process using a silicon‐on‐insulator wafer. The miniature Si resonator with the magnetized FePt film has a minimum detectable magnetic field of 20 nT. Such patterned magnets on resonators can be used for localized magnetic field detection with a magnetic moment sensitivity of ≈105μB.