bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solution‐Processed Monolithic CH3NH3PbI3/PbI2 Vertical Heterostructure for High‐Performance Flexible and Broadband Photodetector
Authors: Xiao Han , Liang Tao , Xu Jing , Xu Mingsheng
Published: June 2021

2D semiconductors are attracting increasing interest owing to their promising applications in high‐performance photodetection. However, the spectral response window is dictated by their intrinsic bandgaps, which is typically narrow and severely hinders their applications as broadband photodetectors. Herein, taking advantage of the outstanding optoelectronic properties of perovskite and 2D materials, a monolithic 2D CH3NH3PbI3/PbI2 vertical heterostructure is synthesized via a facile two‐step solution method at room temperature, and flexible photodetectors based on the CH3NH3PbI3/PbI2 heterostructures are constructed. The photodetectors with excellent flexibility and stability exhibit light response under various laser wavelengths from 375 to 1342 nm. In particular, the photodetector shows a current on/off ratio of ≈103, a high detectivity up to 1.66 × 1012 Jones, a responsivity of 4.79 A W−1, and a response speed of 16 ms under 375 nm illumination. This work provides a facile route to 2D vertical semiconducting heterostructures, which is promising for application in high‐performance integrated optoelectronics.
Evidence and Effects of Ion Transfer at Active‐Material/Electrode Interfaces in Solution‐Fabricated Light‐Emitting Electrochemical Cells
Authors: Auroux Etienne , Sandström Andreas , Larsen Christian , Zäll Erik , Lundberg Petter , Wågberg Thomas , Edman Ludvig
Published: June 2021

The light‐emitting electrochemical cell (LEC) allows for energy‐ and cost‐efficient printing and coating fabrication of its entire device structure, including both electrodes and the single‐layer active material. This attractive fabrication opportunity is enabled by the electrochemical action of mobile ions in the active material. However, a related and up to now overlooked issue is that such solution‐fabricated LECs commonly comprise electrode/active‐material interfaces that are open for transfer of the mobile ions, and it is herein demonstrated that a majority of the mobile anions in a common spray‐coated active material can transfer into a spray‐coated poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene‐sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) positive electrode during LEC operation. Since it is well established that the mobile ion concentration in the active material has a profound influence on the LEC performance, this significant ion transfer is an important factor that should be considered in the design of low‐cost LEC devices that deliver high performance.
Emerging Indoor Photovoltaic Technologies for Sustainable Internet of Things
Authors: Pecunia Vincenzo , Occhipinti Luigi G. , Hoye Robert L. Z.
Published: June 2021

The Internet of Things (IoT) provides everyday objects and environments with “intelligence” and data connectivity to improve quality of life and the efficiency of a wide range of human activities. However, the ongoing exponential growth of the IoT device ecosystem—up to tens of billions of units to date—poses a challenge regarding how to power such devices. This Progress Report discusses how energy harvesting can address this challenge. It then discusses how indoor photovoltaics (IPV) constitutes an attractive energy harvesting solution, given its deployability, reliability, and power density. For IPV to provide an eco‐friendly route to powering IoT devices, it is crucial that its underlying materials and fabrication processes are low‐toxicity and not harmful to the environment over the product life cycle. A range of IPV technologies—both incumbent and emerging—developed to date is discussed, with an emphasis on their environmental sustainability. Finally, IPV based on emerging lead‐free perovskite‐inspired absorbers are examined, highlighting their status and prospects for low‐cost, durable, and efficient energy harvesting that is not harmful to the end user and environment. By examining emerging avenues for eco‐friendly IPV, timely insight is provided into promising directions toward IPV that can sustainably power the IoT revolution.
Unveiling Roles of Tin Fluoride Additives in High‐Efficiency Low‐Bandgap Mixed Tin‐Lead Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Qiyu , Luo Jincheng , He Rui , Lai Huagui , Ren Shengqiang , Jiang Yiting , Wan Zhenxi , Wang Wenwu , Hao Xia , Wang Ye , Zhang Jingquan , Constantinou Iordania , Wang Changlei , Wu Lili , Fu Fan , Zhao Dewei
Published: June 2021

Low‐bandgap mixed tin–lead perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have been attracting increasing interest due to their appropriate bandgaps and promising application to build efficient all‐perovskite tandem cells, an effective way to break the Shockley–Queisser limit of single‐junction cells. Tin fluoride (SnF2) has been widely used as a basis along with various strategies to improve the optoelectronic properties of low‐bandgap SnPb perovskites and efficient cells. However, fully understanding the roles of SnF2 in both films and devices is still lacking and fundamentally desired. Here, the functions of SnF2 in both low‐bandgap (FASnI3)0.6(MAPbI3)0.4 perovskite films and efficient devices are unveiled. SnF2 regulates the growth mode of low‐bandgap SnPb perovskite films, leading to highly oriented topological growth and improved crystallinity. Meanwhile, SnF2 prevents the oxidation of Sn2+ to Sn4+ and reduces Sn vacancies, leading to reduced background hole density and defects, and improved carrier lifetime, thus largely decreasing nonradiative recombination. Additionally, the F− ion preferentially accumulates at hole transport layer/perovskite interface with high SnF2 content, leading to more defects. This work provides in‐depth insights into the roles of SnF2 additives in low‐bandgap SnPb films and devices, assisting in further investigations into multiple additives and approaches to obtain efficient low‐bandgap PSCs.
Water Oxidation under Modal Ultrastrong Coupling Conditions Using Gold/Silver Alloy Nanoparticles and Fabry–Pérot Nanocavities
Authors: Suganami Yoshiki , Oshikiri Tomoya , Shi Xu , Misawa Hiroaki
Published: June 2021

We developed a photoanode consisting of Au‐Ag alloy nanoparticles (NPs), a TiO2 thin film and a Au film (AATA) under modal strong coupling conditions with a large splitting energy of 520 meV, which can be categorized into the ultrastrong coupling regime. We fabricated a photoanode under ultrastrong coupling conditions to verify the relationship between the coupling strength and photoelectric conversion efficiency and successfully performed efficient photochemical reactions. The AATA photoanode showed a 4.0 % maximum incident photon‐to‐current efficiency (IPCE), obtained at 580 nm, and the internal quantum efficiency (IQE) was 4.1 %. These results were attributed to the high hot‐electron injection efficiency due to the larger near‐field enhancement and relatively negative potential distribution of the hot electrons. Furthermore, hybrid mode‐induced water oxidation using AATA structures was performed, with a Faraday efficiency of more than 70 % for O2 evolution.
Oxygen Vacancy‐Driven Reversible Free Radical Catalysis for Environment‐Adaptive Cancer Chemodynamic Therapy
Authors: Yuan Xi , Wang Linlin , Hu Miaomiao , Zhang Lili , Chen Hong , Zhang Dailiang , Wang Zhimin , Li Ting , Zhong Minjuan , Xu Liujun , Wang Dan , Liu Yanlan , Tan Weihong
Published: June 2021

Amplifying free radical production by chemical dynamic catalysis to cause oxidative damage to cancer cells has received extensive interest for cancer‐specific therapy. The major challenge is inevitable negative modulation on the tumor microenvironment (TME) by these species, hindering durable effectiveness. Here we show for the first time an oxygen vacancy‐rich Bi‐based regulator that allows environment‐adaptive free radical catalysis. Specifically, the regulator catalyzes production of highly toxic O2.− and .OH in cancer cells via logic enzymatic reactions yet scavenges accumulation of free radicals and immunosuppressive mediators in TME‐associated noncancerous cells. Atomic‐level mechanistic studies reveal that such dual‐modal regulating behavior is dominated by oxygen vacancies that well fit for free radical catalytic kinetics, along with distinguished cellular fates of this regulator. With this smart regulator, a “two birds with one shot” cancer dynamic therapy can be expected.
Investigation of the hardener with latent and rapid curing based on phenol‐amine salts for applications to cyanate ester resins
Authors: Ueyama Junji , Ogawa Ryo , Tsuge Akihiko , Endo Takeshi
Published: June 2021

We have developed the curing agents that have good storage stability for cyanate ester resins. It should be noted that these agents can be given rapid and efficient curing at low temperatures around 100°C. Even though the nucleophilicity was reduced by a phenol‐amine salts consisting of basic aliphatic amines and weakly acidic phenols, the curing reaction with the cyanate ester occurred immediately. It means that the control of the curing reaction with cyanate esters is not easy due to the equilibrium between phenol and amine. In order to overcome this difficultly cyanate esters reactivity, the molecular motions suppression by polymer was applied in addition to the phenol‐amine salts. The effect of the suppression for hardeners was studied in terms of the storage stability and reactivity to cyanate esters. It has been found out that PSM‐EPEDA composed of ethylenediamine‐epoxy adducts and novolac phenolic resin exhibits a large storage stability against cyanate esters by its effective suppression of molecular motions accompanied with efficient and rapid curing around 100°C.
Average‐tempered stable subordinators with applications
Authors: Xia Weixuan
Published: June 2021

In this article, the running average of a subordinator with a tempered stable distribution is considered. We investigate a family of previously unexplored infinite‐activity subordinators induced by the probability distribution of the running average process and determine their jump intensity measures. Special cases including gamma processes and inverse Gaussian processes are discussed. Then we derive easily implementable formulas for the distribution functions, cumulants, and moments, as well as provide explicit estimates for their asymptotic behaviors. Numerical experiments are conducted for illustrating the applicability and efficiency of the proposed formulas. Two important extensions of the running average process and its equi‐distributed subordinator are subsequently examined, with concrete applications to structural degradation modeling with memory and financial derivatives pricing in the presence of enhanced asymmetric leptokurtic feature, where their advantages relative to various existing models are highlighted together with the mention of Euler discretization and compound Poisson approximation techniques.
Neutron star collisions and gravitational waves
Authors: Hanauske Matthias , Weih Lukas R.
Published: June 2021

The long‐awaited detection of a gravitational wave from the merger of a binary neutron star in August 2017 (GW170817) marked the beginning of the new field of multi‐messenger gravitational wave astronomy. By exploiting the extracted tidal deformations of the two neutron stars from the late inspiral phase of GW170817, it was possible to constrain several global properties of the equation of state of neutron star matter. By means of fully general‐relativistic hydrodynamic simulations, it is possible to get an insight into the hydrodynamic evolution of matter and into the structure of the space–time deformation caused by the remnant of binary neutron star merger. Neutron star mergers represent an optimal astrophysical laboratory to investigate the phase transition from confined hadronic matter to deconfined quark matter. With future gravitational wave detectors, it will most likely be possible in the near future to investigate the hadron‐quark phase transition by analyzing the spectrum of the post‐merger gravitational wave of the differentially rotating hypermassive hybrid star. In contrast to hypermassive neutron stars, these highly differentially rotating objects contain deconfined strange quark matter in their slowly rotating inner region.
A rapid aptamer‐based fluorescence assay for the detection of lipopolysaccharides using SYBR Green I
Authors: N. K. Radhika , Kamali R. Vishaalini , Gorthi Sai Siva
Published: June 2021

Lipopolysaccharides (endotoxins), found on Gram‐negative bacteria, can trigger a severe immune response in humans leading to septic shock and in extreme cases, even death. Therefore, the detection and neutralization of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) is of utmost importance in the pharmaceutical and medical industries. The United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) recommended detection method for LPS, the Limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) assay, is expensive, time consuming, complex, and is prone to interference from proteases. As an alternative, this paper proposes a rapid, label‐free fluorescence‐based assay using LPS‐specific aptamers and the SYBR Green DNA stain. The proposed method has a detection limit of 0.1 ng/ml, which is sufficient to detect the permissible levels of LPS in many pharmaceutical drugs and medical products. The fluorescence signal was found to be a linear function of the concentration of LPS in the range from 0.1 ng/ml to 105 ng/ml.
Juvenile homicide offenders: Why they were involved in serious crime
Authors: Heide Kathleen M.
Published: June 2021

The perpetration of murders by juveniles (individuals under age 18) has been a serious concern in the United States since the 1960s. As a result of four decisions by the United States Supreme Court during the 21st century, the likelihood that juvenile homicide offenders will be released back into society is substantially higher than it was in the year 2000. Given these changes in sentencing policies and practices, understanding why youths under 18 engage in homicidal behavior is more important than ever for two reasons: to prevent juveniles from killing in the first place and to determine whether their reasons for killing are related to post‐release outcome. This research is a part of a 35‐year follow‐up study of 59 boys, age 14 to 17, who were convicted of murder or attempted murder, and sentenced to adult prisons in a southeastern state. Twenty of these men discussed the reasons for their involvement in murder in person in a second interview conducted by the author 35 years after her first interview with them. These men's reasons for engaging in serious homicidal behavior reflected both psychological and sociological factors. Although the type of explanation for criminal involvement was not significantly related to post‐release outcome, some interesting patterns were discernible. The implications of these findings, limitations of the study, and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Render‐based factorization for additive light field display
Authors: Deng Nianchen , He Zhenyi , Yang Xubo
Published: June 2021

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) applications enable viewers to experience 3D graphics immersively. However, current hardware either fails to provide multiple viewpoints like projectors or cause conflicts between vergence and accommodation like consumable headsets. Prior researchers have designed multi‐view displays to solve the problem by enabling view‐dependent images and focus cues. Nevertheless, it requires minutes to calculate one frame, which is critical for real‐time AR/VR applications. In this paper, we propose a new render‐based factorization for additive light field display and further improve the performance by optimizing the initialization of layers. We next compare our work with the state of the art and the results show that our solution has competitive results while the calculation takes less than 20 ms for each frame.
Carbon Monoxide is an Inhibitor of HIF Prolyl Hydroxylase Domain 2
Authors: Mbenza Naasson M. , Nasarudin Nawal , Vadakkedath Praveen G. , Patel Kamal , Ismail A. Z. , Hanif Muhammad , Wright L. James , Sarojini Vijayalekshmi , Hartinger Christian G. , Leung Ivanhoe K. H.
Published: June 2021

Hypoxia‐inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase domain 2 (PHD2) is an important oxygen sensor in animals. By using the CO‐releasing molecule‐2 (CORM‐2) as anin situCO donor, we demonstrate that CO is an inhibitor of PHD2. This report provides further evidence about the emerging role of CO in oxygen sensing and homeostasis.
The Allegra transcatheter heart valve: Short term results from a multicenter registry
Authors: Wolfrum Mathias , Moccetti Federico , Piuhola Jarkko , Lehtola Heidi , Baz José Antonio , Iñiguez Andrés , van Nunen Lokien X. , Tonino Pim A. L. , Niemelä Matti , Toggweiler Stefan
Published: June 2021

Objectives

We aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of the Allegra transcatheter heart valve (THV) for the treatment of severe aortic valve stenosis in a large patient population treated under real‐world conditions.

Background

The Allegra is a novel self‐expanding THV with supra‐annular bovine leaflets. The valve is available in three different sizes (23, 27, and 31 mm), all are delivered through an 18F sheath.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing TAVR with the Allegra THV were enrolled in a multicenter‐registry. Data were collected throughout initial hospital‐stay and at 30‐day follow‐up. Clinical endpoints were defined according to the updated definitions of the Valve‐Academic‐Research‐Consortium.

Results

This registry included 255 patients (mean age 83 ± 6 years, 48% women) from four European centers. Median European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II score (EuroSCORE II) was 3.3% (IQR 1.9–5.8%). Acute device success was 95.7%. The remaining 11 patients had either moderate paravalvular regurgitation immediately after the procedure (7 patients) or the device could not be optimal positioned requiring implantation of a second THV (4 patients). Major vascular complications and major/life‐threatening bleedings occurred in 10 (3.9%) and 12 (4.7%) patients, respectively. At 30 day follow‐up, mean effective orifice area was 2.2 ± 0.5 cm2, mean gradient was 6.9 ± 3.8 mmHg, 7 (3.3%) patients had more than mild paravalvular leakage, 3 patients (1.2%) had died, 6 patients (2.4%) had a stroke and 30 (12.8%) patients had required implantation of a new permanent pacemaker.

Conclusions

Transfemoral implantation of the Allegra THV resulted in favorable clinical and echocardiographic outcomes during hospitalization and short‐term follow up.
Ein experimentell‐numerischer Ansatz zur Entwicklung von Staubfreisetzungsfunktionen
Authors: Woschny Nadja , Schulz Daniel , Kruggel‐Emden Harald , Schmidt Eberhard
Published: June 2021

Bei der Beanspruchung von Schüttgütern werden durch den Energieeintrag Partikeln freigesetzt, die dann fein verteilt in der Luft vorliegen. Dies ist sowohl aus prozess‐ als auch aus sicherheitstechnischen Gründen ein zu vermeidender Vorgang. Daher soll in dem hier geschilderten Forschungsvorhaben auf experimenteller und parallel dazu auf numerischer Ebene eine Berechnungsmethode zur Vorhersage der während eines Prozessschritts aufkommenden Staubemissionen entwickelt werden. So können erforderliche Gegenmaßnahmen vor dem Bau und Betrieb einer Anlage zur Schüttgutverarbeitung vorgenommen werden.
Internal Illumination to Overcome the Cell Density Limitation in the Scale‐up of Whole‐Cell Photobiocatalysis
Authors: Hobisch Markus , Spasic Jelena , Malihan‐Yap Lenny , Barone Giovanni Davide , Castiglione Kathrin , Tamagnini Paula , Kara Selin , Kourist Robert
Published: June 2021

Cyanobacteria have the capacity to use photosynthesis to fuel their metabolism, which makes them highly promising production systems for the sustainable production of chemicals. Yet, their dependency on visible light limits the cell‐density, which is a challenge for the scale‐up. Here, it was shown with the example of a light‐dependent biotransformation that internal illumination in a bubble column reactor equipped with wireless light emitters (WLEs) could overcome this limitation. Cells of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 expressing the gene of the ene‐reductase YqjM were used for the reduction of 2‐methylmaleimide to (R)‐2‐methylsuccinimide with high optical purity (>99 % ee). Compared to external source of light, illumination by floating wireless light emitters allowed a more than two‐fold rate increase. Under optimized conditions, product formation rates up to 3.7 mm h−1 and specific activities of up to 65.5 U gDCW−1 were obtained, allowing the reduction of 40 mm 2‐methylmaleimide with 650 mg isolated enantiopure product (73 % yield). The results demonstrate the principle of internal illumination as a means to overcome the intrinsic cell density limitation of cyanobacterial biotransformations, obtaining high reaction rates in a scalable photobioreactor.
Short‐term exposure to silicon rapidly enhances plant resistance to herbivory
Authors: Waterman Jamie M. , Cibils‐Stewart Ximena , Cazzonelli Christopher I. , Hartley Susan E. , Johnson Scott N.
Published: June 2021

Silicon (Si) can adversely affect insect herbivores, particularly in plants that evolved the ability to accumulate large quantities of Si. Very rapid herbivore‐induced accumulation of Si has recently been demonstrated, but the level of protection against herbivory this affords plants remains unknown.Brachypodium distachyon, a model Si hyperaccumulating grass, was exposed to the chewing herbivore,Helicoverpa armigera,and grown under three conditions: supplied Si over 34 d (+Si), not supplied Si (−Si), or supplied Si once herbivory began (−Si → +Si). We evaluated the effectiveness of each Si treatment at reducing herbivore performance and measured Si‐based defenses and phenolics (another form of defense often reduced by Si). Although Si concentrations remained lower, within 72 h of exposure to Si, −Si → +Si plants were as resistant to herbivory as +Si plants. Both +Si and −Si → +Si treatments reduced herbivore damage and growth, and increased mandible wear compared to −Si. After 6 h, herbivory increased filled Si cell density in −Si → +Si plants, and within 24 h, −Si → +Si plants reached similar filled Si cell densities to +Si plants, although decreased phenolics only occurred in +Si plants. We demonstrate that plants with short‐term Si exposure can rapidly accumulate Si‐based antiherbivore defenses as effectively as plants with long‐term exposure.
Diagnosis of wild‐type transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy in Japan: red‐flag symptom clusters and diagnostic algorithm
Authors: Inomata Takayuki , Tahara Nobuhiro , Nakamura Kazufumi , Endo Jin , Ueda Mitsuharu , Ishii Tomonori , Kitano Yoshinobu , Koyama Jun
Published: June 2021

Wild‐type transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTRwt‐CM) is caused by the deposition of wild‐type transthyretin (TTR) amyloid fibrils in the heart. The age at diagnosis of ATTRwt‐CM is reported to be approximately 70–80 years, and patients commonly present with non‐disease‐specific cardiac abnormalities, such as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and diastolic dysfunction. The disease can be fatal if left untreated, with an approximate survival of 3–5 years from diagnosis. An oral TTR stabilizer, tafamidis, has enabled early intervention for the treatment of ATTRwt‐CM. However, awareness of ATTRwt‐CM remains low, and misdiagnosis and a delay in diagnosis are common. This review discusses the epidemiology, characteristics, treatment strategy, and red‐flag symptoms and signs of ATTRwt‐CM based on the published literature, as well as recent advances in diagnostic modalities that enable early and accurate diagnosis of the disease. We also discuss an algorithm for early and accurate diagnosis of ATTRwt‐CM in daily clinical practice. In our diagnostic algorithm, a suspected diagnosis of ATTRwt‐CM should be triggered by unexplained left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), which is LVH that cannot be explained by an increased afterload due to hypertension or valvular disease. In addition, heart failure symptoms, laboratory test results (N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide, high‐sensitivity troponin T, or high‐sensitivity troponin I), electrocardiogram and imaging (echocardiogram or cardiac magnetic resonance) data, age (≥60 years), and medical history suggestive of ATTRwt‐CM (e.g. carpal tunnel syndrome) should be examined. Detailed examinations using bone scintigraphy and monoclonal protein detection tests followed by tissue biopsy, amyloid typing, and TTR genetic testing are warranted for a definite diagnosis of ATTRwt‐CM.
Interleukin‐34 accelerates intrauterine adhesions progress related to CX3CR1+ monocytes/macrophages
Authors: Wang Jiali , Li Dan , Pan Yuchen , Li Jingman , Jiang Qi , Liu Dan , Hou Yayi
Published: June 2021

Intrauterine adhesions (IUA) are characterized by endometrial fibrosis and impose a great challenge for female reproduction. IL‐34 is profoundly involved in various fibrotic diseases through regulating the survival, proliferation, and differentiation of monocytes/macrophages. However, it remains unclear how IL‐34 regulates monocytes/macrophages in context of IUA. Here, we showed that the expression level of IL‐34 and the amount of CX3CR1+ monocytes/macrophages were significantly increased in endometrial tissues of IUA patients. IL‐34 promoted the differentiation of monocytes/macrophages, which express CX3CR1 via CSF‐1R/P13K/Akt pathway in vitro. Moreover, IL‐34‐induced CX3CR1+ monocytes/macrophages promoted the differentiation of endometrial stromal cells into myofibroblasts. Of note, IL‐34 caused endometrial fibrosis and increased the amount of CX3CR1+ monocytes/macrophages in endometrial tissues in vivo. IL‐34 modulated endometrial fibrosis by regulating monocytes/macrophages since the elimination of endometrial monocytes/macrophages significantly suppressed the profibrotic function of IL‐34. Finally, blocking of IL‐34 in the LPS‐IUA model resulted in the improvement of endometrial fibrosis and decreased number of CX3CR1+ monocytes/macrophages. Our studies uncover the novel mechanism of interaction between IL‐34‐induced CX3CR1+ monocytes/macrophages and endometrial stromal cells in endometrial fibrosis pathogenesis, and highlight IL‐34 as a critical target for treating IUA.
Photocatalytic treatment of Crystal Violet in aqueous solution:Box–Behnkenoptimization and degradation mechanism
Authors: Assassi Mirvet , Madjene Farid , Harchouche Sarah , Boulfiza Hind
Published: June 2021

A photocatalytic degradation of Crystal Violet (CV) in aqueous solution was investigated in batch reactor. Box–Behnken experimental design was using to establish a quadratic model showing the functional relationship between degradation rate and four operational parameters: pollutant concentration, irradiation time, zinc oxide (ZnO) dose, and stirring speed, at free pH (~ 7), lamp irradiance (45 W m−2) and ambient temperature (~25°C). The results show that the most influential factor on the process was the CV concentration, with an effect of 48.27%, followed by the ZnO dose with an effect of 15.16%, at the third position comes the irradiation time with an effect of 11.81%, and the forth influencing parameter was the stirring speed with an effect of 1.04%. A total CV degradation (100%) was reached for ultraviolet (UV) irradiation time equal to 90 min, ZnO dose of 0.7 g L−1, and stirring speed of 558 rpm for CV initial concentration of 55 mgL−1. For CV concentration equal to 100 mg L−1solar irradiation seems to be better up to 96% of degradation against 62% for UV lamp after 120 min of irradiation time. The O•−2radicals were the main active species responsible for the degradation of CV. The degradation kinetic was well described by the pseudο first‐οrder mοdel.
Effects of leg geometry and multistaging of thermoelectric modules on the performance of a photovoltaic‐thermoelectric system using different photovoltaic cells
Authors: Maduabuchi Chika , Lamba Ravita , Njoku Howard , Eke Mkpamdi , Mgbemene Chigbo
Published: June 2021

Research into improving the performance of photovoltaic (PV) systems using thermoelectric generators (TEGs) has gained increased interest in recent times. Few studies have separately investigated the effects of multistaging, thermoelectric geometry, and type of PV cell on overall performance of PV‐thermoelectric (PV‐TE) systems. Thermoelectric leg geometries considered in these studies were either rectangular or trapezoidal legs. The research work related to examine the combined consequences of PV cell type, TEG leg geometry and multistaging on the overall performance of PV‐TEs has not been carried out till date. Therefore, a three‐dimensional model of this hybrid system considering two different types of PV cells and the rectangular and circular TEG leg geometries in single and multistage arrangements has been investigated using ANSYS 2020 R2 software. A parametric study considering the effects of concentrated solar irradiation, TEG cold junction convective film coefficient and load resistance on the overall performance of the hybrid system has been carried out. Results show that, for both types of PV cell, the circular leg geometry of TEG provides the highest PV‐TE performance. Also, the PV cell type significantly affects the optimum number of TEG stages in the PV‐TE system. Finally, multistaging increases the thermal stresses developed in the PV‐TE system, although the circular leg TEG provides the least thermal stresses as compared with the traditional rectangular leg TEG. Quantitatively, the PV‐TE system with single and two‐stage circular leg TEGs reduced the thermal stress levels of their rectangular leg counterparts by 3.31% and 0.78%, respectively. The findings of this study can be used as a reference for all types of PV cell in the PV‐TE systems.
Elovl5 is required for proper action potential conduction along peripheral myelinated fibers
Authors: Hoxha Eriola , Balbo Ilaria , Parolisi Roberta , Audano Matteo , Montarolo Francesca , Ravera Francesco , Guglielmotto Michela , Muratori Luisa , Raimondo Stefania , DiGregorio Eleonora , Buffo Annalisa , Brusco Alfredo , Borroni Barbara , Mitro Nico , Caruso Donatella , Tempia Filippo
Published: June 2021

Elovl5 elongates fatty acids with 18 carbon atoms and in cooperation with other enzymes guarantees the normal levels of very long‐chain fatty acids, which are necessary for a proper membrane structure. Action potential conduction along myelinated axons depends on structural integrity of myelin, which is maintained by a correct amount of fatty acids and a proper interaction between fatty acids and myelin proteins. We hypothesized that in Elovl5−/− mice, the lack of elongation of Elovl5 substrates might cause alterations of myelin structure. The analysis of myelin ultrastructure showed an enlarged periodicity with reduced G‐ratio across all axonal diameters. We hypothesized that the structural alteration of myelin might affect the conduction of action potentials. The sciatic nerve conduction velocity was significantly reduced without change in the amplitude of the nerve compound potential, suggesting a myelin defect without a concomitant axonal degeneration. Since Elovl5 is important in attaining normal amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are the principal component of myelin, we performed a lipidomic analysis of peripheral nerves of Elovl5‐deficient mice. The results revealed an unbalance, with reduction of fatty acids longer than 18 carbon atoms relative to shorter ones. In addition, the ratio of saturated to unsaturated fatty acids was strongly increased. These findings point out the essential role of Elovl5 in the peripheral nervous system in supporting the normal structure of myelin, which is the key element for a proper conduction of electrical signals along myelinated nerves.
Effect of socioeconomic status on survival in patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Weizman Baruch , Golan Nili , Ronen Ohad
Published: June 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the survival outcomes of head and neck cancer (HNC) by socioeconomic status.

Methods

A national retrospective population‐based cohort of HNC patients diagnosed in Israel between 2000 and 2017 was conducted. Site of residence and socioeconomic status were correlated with overall survival (OS), controlling for prognostic factors that included tumor site, stage, age, sex, and ethnic group.

Results

Overall, 11 826 patients were identified. Patients from high socioeconomic areas had better overall 5‐year survival than patients from low socioeconomic areas (p < 0.005). Patients in stage 3 from a high socioeconomic status had a longer median survival rate of 1.5 years than patients in the low‐status group. In a cox proportional hazards analysis, we found age >65 (HR 2.91, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.75–3.09, p < 0.001) and low socioeconomic group (HR 1.25, 95% CI: 1.18–1.33, p < 0.001) to be correlated with inferior OS.

Conclusion

Our findings show that patients with HNC living in low socioeconomic areas had worse OS.
Effectiveness of optimised care chain for hip fractures in elderly Chinese
Authors: Wang Zhaofu , Chen Meixue , Luo Xiaohai , Xiong Xianghua , Ma Feng
Published: June 2021

Background

Studies have found that optimised care chain (OCC) can promote the recovery of hip fracture patients. Fast track (FT) has been widely proven to play a good role, but there is no systematic review report.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search and obtained search data as of April 2020. These included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort trials (CTs). We applied the research input Review Manager 5.3 for data synthesis, and used Stata 12.0 for meta‐ regression analysis.

Results

This review reported 2200 hip fractures. Our analysis showed that OCC can reduce complications and 1‐year mortality, and shorten the length of stay (LOS). After dividing the complications into bed‐related complications and other complications, OCC has advantages in reducing bed‐related complications, but has no significant effect on other complications. For the conventional care group, the secondary outcome of the OCC group showed there was no significant difference in duration of surgery, and the rest were significantly improved. Subgroup analysis between green channel (GC) and FT showed a shorter LOS for GC.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis suggests that the use of OCC in China promotes rehabilitation in elderly patients with hip fractures, that FT and GC are similar in effect in China, and that GC shows a greater advantage in reducing LOS.
Meaning gained versus meaning lost: The effects of meaning salience on anxiety and depression during the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Klussman Kristine , Nichols Austin Lee , Langer Julia
Published: June 2021

People who have meaningful lives generally experience less anxiety and depression. Meaning salience, or the awareness of the meaning in one's life, is believed to partially explain this relationship. However, in times of isolation, what might be most salient to people are the meaningful aspects of their lives that have disappeared. This study seeks to understand how making gained versus lost meaning salient affects anxiety and depression. Participants either wrote for 5 minutes about how their life gained meaning (n = 29) or lost meaning (n = 30) due to the coronavirus restrictions, or about music (i.e., the control condition; n = 32). Those who wrote about gained meaning experienced less momentary anxiety than those who wrote about lost meaning. In addition, meaning salience moderated the relationship between meaning and both anxiety and depression. Those who wrote about gained meaning appeared to exhibit a positive relationship between meaning in life (MIL) and both anxiety and depression, while those who wrote about lost meaning exhibited negative relationships. In all, this suggests that meaning salience is not always positive and that researchers and practitioners should consider how making positive meaning salient may be more beneficial than a general focus on MIL.
The utility of diffusion‐weighted whole‐body imaging with background body signal suppression in detecting metastatic lesion of germ cell carcinoma
Authors: Yoshitomi Kasumi Kaneko , Numao Noboru , Umino Yosuke , Fujiwara Motohiro , Fujiwara Ryo , Oguchi Tomohiko , Komai Yoshinobu , Yuasa Takeshi , Yamamoto Shinya , Yonese Junji
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Although the utility of diffusion‐weighted whole‐body imaging with background body signal suppression for assessing lymph node involvement or distant metastasis is renowned in many cancers, only few studies have revealed its utility for germ cell carcinoma. Some metastatic lesions of germ cell carcinomas are difficult to detect by conventional imaging.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 70‐year‐old man with relapsed retroperitoneal germ cell tumor. Although his human chorionic gonadotropin levels increased, conventional imaging analysis showed no evidence of recurrence. Diffusion‐weighted whole‐body imaging with background body signal suppression was performed to search the metastatic lesion and detected metastatic sacral lesions. The patient responded well to local radiotherapy added to the steroid pulse and salvage chemotherapy and achieved long‐term recurrence‐free survival.

Conclusion

Diffusion‐weighted whole‐body imaging with background body signal suppression has the potential to detect metastatic lesions not usually detected by conventional imaging methods.
Superior rate capability and cyclic stability of poly orthoaminophenol nanocomposite film in the presence of benzidine functionalized graphene oxide
Authors: Khodaei Kahriz Peyman , Heidari Ali Akbar , Ehsani Ali , Mahdavi Hossein , Bigdeloo Mohmmad , Rezaei Zahra
Published: June 2021

In this study, benzidine (BnZ) is used not only as a reducing agent but also as the spacer on the supercapacitive behavior of the synthesized graphene nanocomposite film. The synthesized graphene nanocomposite was examined by crystalline size, structural morphology, presence of functional groups to X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Furthermore, chemical composition moieties are evidenced by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Poly ortho aminophenol as a p‐type conductive polymer was introduced into the channels of Bnz‐rGOAerogel. This composite structure with a high surface area and pore volume can effectively play a synergistic role between the two materials, thus improving its overall performance. In addition, the specific capacitance of the prepared spherical composite electrode is as high as 625 F/g at 1.0 A/g current density, and the retention rate of the initial capacity is 89% after 3,000 cycles in acidic solution, which has good cycle stability.
N‐doped luteolin‐based carbon dots as a novel matrix for the analysis of small molecules byMALDI‐TOF MS
Authors: Zhao Yanan , Piao Ying‐ai , Meng Long‐yue , Jin Biao
Published: June 2021

Biomass‐derived carbon dots were synthesized by a hydrothermal method using the flavonoid luteolin, 3′,4′,5,7‐tetrahydroxyflavone, as a carbon source. The reaction conditions were optimized with regard to reaction temperature, reaction time, and amount of luteolin. N‐doped luteolin‐based carbon dots (N‐CDs) were obtained through the addition of ethylenediamine and used as MALDI‐TOF matrix for the analysis of amino acids and other low molecular‐weight molecules. Compared with N‐free CDs, the matrix application of N‐CDs displayed less background interferences, high sensitivity, superior efficiency, and good repeatability. Pyridinic N atoms were identified as the major component of the nitrogen dopants in N‐CDs. The lone electron pair of this N species, which is located in an sp2‐orbital perpendicular to the aromatic system, and the π‐conjugated structure contributed to an enhanced desorption/ionization efficiency. Furthermore, the qualitative detection of amino acids in serum samples was accomplished by MALDI‐TOF MS using the N‐CD matrix. This new type of MALDI‐TOF matrix demonstrated its potential in the analysis of small molecules present in chemical, environmental, or biological samples.
Incorporation of copper nanoparticles into the nitrogen‐doped carbon derived from nitrile functionalized ionic liquid as the non‐precious heterogeneous catalytic system toward nitro compounds reduction reaction, a first principle calculation
Authors: Mirhosseyni Marzie S , Nemati Firouzeh , Nahzomi Hossein T
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Today, Nitrogen‐doped carbon materials have gained attention as the robust solid catalyst support for immobilization nanoparticles to expand the heterogeneous catalytic systems due to their chemical and structural stability. Copper nanoparticles, known to be a cost‐effective metal, are one of the most efficient catalyst toward various organic transformations.

RESULTS

In this paper, the covalent triazine framework mesoporous solid support was successfully fabricated by applying ionic liquid as a nitrogen containing carbon precursor during the ionothermal process with the help of ZnCl2 molten salt at 400 °C. The immobilization of cost‐effective copper nanoparticles on the surface of the new design support was carried out by using Cu (NO3)2 and N2H4. For characterization of the new heterogeneous catalyst, the combination of different physicochemical analyses was done to confirm the successful preparation of catalyst inclusive Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Field emission scanning electron microscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption isotherm, Raman spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Besides, DFT (Density functional theory) calculations have been performed to optimize the constructed structures and to calculate their Fermi levels and density of states.

CONCLUSION

The catalytic capability of this new design catalyst survived in hydrogenation of nitroarenes under aqueous and mild conditions. The result shows that this new heterogeneous mesoporous catalyst has excellent catalytic activity and a high stability towards nitroarenes hydrogenation reaction. Moreover, due to the high stability (thermal and structural), it was recovered and reused up to 7 times without any significant reduction in its catalytic activity. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Magnetic Resonance Assessment of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction at Any Time Post‐Infarction for Prediction of Subsequent Events in a Large Multicenter STEMI Registry
Authors: Gavara Jose , Marcos‐Garces Victor , Lopez‐Lereu Maria P. , Monmeneu Jose V. , Rios‐Navarro Cesar , de Dios Elena , Perez Nerea , Merenciano Hector , Gabaldon Ana , Cànoves Joaquim , Racugno Paolo , Bonanad Clara , Minana Gema , Nunez Julio , Nunez Eduardo , Moratal David , Chorro Francisco J. , Valente Filipa , Lorenzatti Daniel , Rodríguez‐Palomares Jose F. , Ortiz‐Pérez Jose T. , Bodi Vicente
Published: June 2021

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most accurate imaging technique for left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) quantification, but as yet the prognostic value of LVEF assessment at any time after ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) for subsequent major adverse cardiac event (MACE) prediction is uncertain.

Purpose

To explore the prognostic impact of MRI‐derived LVEF at any time post‐STEMI to predict subsequent MACE (cardiovascular death or re‐admission for acute heart failure).

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

One thousand thirteen STEMI patients were included in a multicenter registry.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5‐T. Balanced steady‐state free precession (cine imaging) and segmented inversion recovery steady‐state free precession (late gadolinium enhancement) sequences.

Assessment

Post‐infarction MRI‐derived LVEF (reduced [r]: <40%; mid‐range [mr]: 40%–49%; preserved [p]: ≥50%) was sequentially quantified at 1 week and after >3 months of follow‐up.

Statistical Tests

Multi‐state Markov model to determine the prognostic value of each LVEF state (r‐, mr‐ or p‐) at any time point assessed to predict subsequent MACE. A P‐value <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results

During a 6.2‐year median follow‐up, 105 MACE (10%) were registered. Transitions toward improved LVEF predominated and only r‐LVEF (at any time assessed) was significantly related to a higher incidence of subsequent MACE. The observed transitions from r‐LVEF, mr‐LVEF, and p‐LVEF states to MACE were: 15.3%, 6%, and 6.7%, respectively. Regarding the adjusted transition intensity ratios, patients in r‐LVEF state were 4.52‐fold more likely than those in mr‐LVEF state and 5.01‐fold more likely than those in p‐LVEF state to move to MACE state. Nevertheless, no significant differences were found in transitions from mr‐LVEF and p‐LVEF states to MACE state (P‐value = 0.6).

Data Conclusion

LVEF is an important MRI index for simple and dynamic post‐STEMI risk stratification. Detection of r‐LVEF by MRI at any time during follow‐up identifies a subset of patients at high risk of subsequent events.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Laboratory parameters related to severe disease and death in SARS‐CoV‐2 pneumonia: Retrospective analysis
Authors: Picchi Giovanna , Di Norcia Monica , Cofini Vincenza , Sinatti Gaia , Cosimini Benedetta , Vertolli Paola , Tonello Franco , Carucci Anna Cecilia , Necozione Stefano , Balsano Clara , Grimaldi Alessandro
Published: June 2021

The clinical evolution of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is highly variable and hospitalized patients can rapidly develop conditions requiring oxygen support, intensive care unit (ICU) or high dependency unit (HDU) care. Early identification of high‐risk patients is mandatory. We retrospectively collected the medical history, symptoms, radiological, and laboratory findings of COVID‐19 patients hospitalized between February and April 2020. Laboratory data were collected at the first, last, and middle times of hospitalization. We used arterial oxygen partial pressure and fractional inspired oxygen ratio (P/F) to evaluate respiratory status. Outcomes considered were death and ICU/HDU admission. We used the χ2 or Fisher's exact test to examine differences between categorical variables. Continuous variables were analyzed using the Wilcoxon matched pairs signed‐ranks test and Mann–Whitney test sample test. Of 71 patients admitted, 92% had interstitial pneumonia, and 17% an unfavorable outcome. Negative predictors were age, cerebrovascular disease, obesity, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Baseline P/F was strongly associated with all outcomes. Markers linked to immunological dysregulation like elevated neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio exhibited prognostic significance over time. A validated prognostic score comprehensive of all these conditions for early staging and management of COVID‐19 patients is urgently needed. Further studies are desirable to evaluate whether laboratory tests can target early treatment in high‐risk patients.