bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Composite Superelastic Aerogel Scaffolds Containing Flexible SiO2 Nanofibers Promote Bone Regeneration
Authors: Liu Mingyue , Shafiq Muhammad , Sun Binbin , Wu Jinglei , Wang Wei , EL‐Newehy Mohamed , EL‐Hamshary Hany , Morsi Yosry , Ali Onaza , Khan Atta ur Rehman , Mo Xiumei
Published: June 2022

Repairing irregular‐shaped bone defects poses enormous challenges. Scaffolds that can fully fit the defect site and simultaneously induce osteogenesis and angiogenesis hold great promise for bone defect healing. This study aimed to produce superelastic organic/inorganic composite aerogel scaffolds by blending silica nanofibers (SiO2) and poly (lactic acid)/gelatin (PLA/gel) nanofibers; the content of SiO2 nanofibers is varied from 0–60 wt% (e.g., PLA/gel, PLA/gel/SiO2‐L, PLA/gel/SiO2‐M, and PLA/gel/SiO2‐H for 0%, 20%, 40%, and 60% of SiO2 nanofibers, respectively) to produce a range of scaffolds. The PLA/gel/SiO2‐M scaffold has excellent elasticity and good mechanical properties. In vitro experiments demonstrate that the silicon ions released from PLA/gel/SiO2‐M scaffolds promote the differentiation of rat bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells into osteoblasts, enhancing alkaline phosphatase activity and bone‐related genes expressions. The released silicon ions also promote the proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factors, thereby promoting angiogenesis. The assessment of these scaffolds in a calvarial defect model in rats shows good potential of PLA/gel/SiO2‐M to induce bone regeneration as well as promote osteogenesis and angiogenesis. Overall, these organic/inorganic composite scaffolds have good biological activity, which may have broad applications for tissue engineering.
Body Temperature Enhanced Adhesive, Antibacterial, and Recyclable Ionic Hydrogel for Epidermal Electrophysiological Monitoring
Authors: Liu Ying , Wang Chan , Xue Jiangtao , Huang Guanhua , Zheng Shuang , Zhao Ke , Huang Jing , Wang Yiqian , Zhang Yan , Yin Tailang , Li Zhou
Published: June 2022

Hydrogel‐based epidermal electrodes attract widespread attention in health monitoring and human‐machine interfaces for their good biocompatibility, skin‐matched Young's modulus, and stable in situ electrophysiological recording performance. However, it is difficult to make the exact conformal attachment between skin and electrodes because of the hair, wrinkles, as well as complex, curved contours of the skin. This also results in signal distortion and large noise. Here, a body temperature enhanced skin‐adhesive epidermal electrode is proposed based on non‐covalent cross‐linked network ionic hydrogel. The ionic hydrogel is fabricated by the polyvinyl alcohol, branched polyethyleneimine, and calcium chloride (CaCl2), which demonstrates impressive performances including ultra‐stretchability of 1291%, great adhesion to skin and other non‐biological materials, stable conductivity of 3.09 S m−1, recyclability, and outstanding antibacterial ability, simultaneously. Specifically, the adhesion of the ionic hydrogel behaves as temperature‐sensitive and could be enhanced by body temperature. Furthermore, the ionic hydrogel is utilized as epidermal electrodes, which display seductive capability to record multifarious electrophysiological signals with high signal‐to‐noise ratio and ultra‐low detection limit, including electrocardiogram, electromyogram, and electroencephalogram. The as‐proposed body temperature enhanced skin‐adhesive ionic hydrogel brings intelligent functions and broadens the way for epidermal electronics, promoting the development of healthcare electronics.
SERS Hotspot Engineering by Aerosol Self‐Assembly of Plasmonic Ag Nanoaggregates with Tunable Interparticle Distance
Authors: Li Haipeng , Merkl Padryk , Sommertune Jens , Thersleff Thomas , Sotiriou Georgios A.
Published: June 2022

Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a powerful sensing technique. However, the employment of SERS sensors in practical applications is hindered by high fabrication costs from processes with limited scalability, poor batch‐to‐batch reproducibility, substrate stability, and uniformity. Here, highly scalable and reproducible flame aerosol technology is employed to rapidly self‐assemble uniform SERS sensing films. Plasmonic Ag nanoparticles are deposited on substrates as nanoaggregates with fine control of their interparticle distance. The interparticle distance is tuned by adding a dielectric spacer during nanoparticle synthesis that separates the individual Ag nanoparticles within each nanoaggregate. The dielectric spacer thickness dictates the plasmonic coupling extinction of the deposited nanoaggregates and finely tunes the Raman hotspots. By systematically studying the optical and morphological properties of the developed SERS surfaces, structure–performance relationships are established and the optimal hot‐spots occur for interparticle distance of 1 to 1.5 nm among the individual Ag nanoparticles, as also validated by computational modeling, are identified for the highest signal enhancement of a molecular Raman reporter. Finally, the superior stability and batch‐to‐batch reproducibility of the developed SERS sensors are demonstrated and their potential with a proof‐of‐concept practical application in food‐safety diagnostics for pesticide detection on fruit surfaces is explored.
Quantifying the Human Subchondral Trabecular Bone Microstructure in Osteoarthritis with Clinical CT
Authors: Oláh Tamás , Cai Xiaoyu , Gao Liang , Walter Frédéric , Pape Dietrich , Cucchiarini Magali , Madry Henning
Published: June 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by critical alterations of the subchondral bone microstructure, besides the well‐known cartilaginous changes. Clinical computed tomography (CT) detection of quantitative 3D microstructural subchondral bone parameters is applied to monitor changes of subchondral bone structure in different stages of human OA and is compared with micro‐CT, the gold standard. Determination by clinical CT (287 µm resolution) of key microstructural parameters in tibial plateaus with mild‐to‐moderate and severe OA reveals strong correlations to micro‐CT (35 µm), high inter‐ and intraobserver reliability, and small relative differences. In vivo, normal, mild‐to‐moderate, and severe OA are compared with clinical CT (331 µm). All approaches detect characteristic expanded trabecular structure in severe OA and fundamental microstructural correlations with clinical OA stage. Multivariate analyses at various in vivo and ex vivo imaging resolutions always reliably separate mild‐to‐moderate from severe OA (except mild‐to‐moderate OA from normal), revealing a striking similarity between 287 µm clinical and 35 µm micro‐CT. Thus, accurate structural measurements using clinical CT with a resolution near the trabecular dimensions are possible. Clinical CT offers an opportunity to quantitatively monitor subchondral bone microstructure in clinical and experimental settings as an advanced tool of investigating OA and other diseases affecting bone architecture.
Methylammonium and Bromide‐Free Tin‐Based Low Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Imran Tahir , Rauf Sajid , Raza Hasan , Aziz Liaquat , Chen Rui , Liu Sanwan , Wang Jianan , Ahmad Muhammad Ashfaq , Zhang Shasha , Zhang Yiqiang , Liu Zonghao , Chen Wei
Published: June 2022

Lead halide‐based perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are intriguing candidates for photovoltaic technology because of their high efficiency, low cost, and simple process advantages. Owing to lead toxicity, PSCs based on partially/fully substituted Pb with tin have attracted tremendous attention, which would enable the ideal bandgap to approach the Shockley‐Queisser (S‐Q) limit. Especially, methylammonium (MA), bromide‐free, tin‐based perovskites are striking, because of the intrinsic poor stability of MA and blue shift caused by the incorporation of Br−. The first section of this review emphasizes the motivation for studying single‐junction MA, Br‐free, and Sn‐based perovskites. The film quality improvement strategies of Sn‐based perovskites, including additive, composition, dimensional, and interface engineering toward high‐efficiency devices are comprehensively overviewed. Moreover, strategies to improve stability, where shelf, thermal and operational stabilities of the devices are summarized. Finally, this review concludes with a discussion of actual limitations and future prospects for Sn‐based PSCs.
Highly Transparent, Scalable, and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells with Minimal Aesthetic Compromise
Authors: Liu Tianran , Zhao Xiaoming , Wang Ping , Burlingame Quinn C. , Hu Junnan , Roh Kwangdong , Xu Zhaojian , Rand Barry P. , Chen Minjie , Loo Yueh‐Lin
Published: June 2022

Transparent photovoltaics (TPVs) can be integrated into the surfaces of buildings and vehicles to provide point‐of‐use power without impacting aesthetics. Unlike TPVs that target the photon‐rich near‐infrared portion of the solar spectrum, TPVs that harvest ultraviolet (UV) photons can have significantly higher transparency and color neutrality, offering a superior solution for low‐power electronics with stringent aesthetic tolerance. In addition to being highly transparent and colorless, an ideal UV‐absorbing TPV should also be operationally stable and scalable over large areas while still outputting sufficient power for its specified application. None of today's TPVs meet all these criteria simultaneously. Here, the first UV‐absorbing TPV is demonstrated that satisfies all four criteria by using CsPbCl2.5Br0.5 as the absorber. By precisely tuning the halide ratio during thermal co‐evaporation, high‐quality large‐area perovskite films can be accessed with an ideal absorption cutoff for aesthetic performance. The resulting TPVs exhibit a record average visible transmittance of 84.6% and a color rendering index of 96.5, while maintaining an output power density of 11 W m−2 under one‐sun illumination. Further, the large‐area prototypes up to 25 cm2 are demonstrated, that are operationally stable with extrapolated lifetimes of >20 yrs under outdoor conditions.
Electronic “Bridge” Construction via Ag Intercalation to Diminish Catalytic Anisotropy for 2D Tin Diselenide Cathode Catalyst in Lithium–Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Zhang Guoliang , Liu Chengyan , Guo Liang , Liu Ruowei , Miao Lei , Dang Feng
Published: June 2022

As cathode catalysts for lithium–oxygen batteries (LOBs), 2D materials are attracting significant attention due to their layered structures, tunable surface chemistry, and unique electronic states. However, catalytic anisotropy, particularly the poor catalytic capability of the van der Waals forces contained in stack edge planes, has suppressed the enhancement of LOB performance as 2D cathode catalysts. Here, an ion‐intercalation strategy is proposed to diminish the catalytic anisotropy of 2D materials. Ag ions are successfully intercalated into SnSe2 layered structure and regulate the electronic states between stack edge planes, leading to an improvement in the catalytic capability of 2D SnSe2. Notably, the catalytic capability of the 2D surface (001) plane of SnSe2 is also significantly enhanced after Ag intercalation, which can efficiently accelerate charge transfer and suppress the passivation on the 2D surface plane during the oxygen reduction/evolution reaction process. As a consequence, the Ag‐intercalated SnSe2 cathode exhibits superior specific capacity of 16871 mAh g−1 and an ultrastable cycle life over 2300 h at a current density of 100 mA g−1 and 144 cycles at current density of 1000 mA g−1. This work provides insights into the modulation of the catalytic capabilities of 2D materials, which have significant potential for this application in LOBs.
Toward High Rate Performance Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Lee Dongsoo , Lee Hyungjun , Song Taeseup , Paik Ungyu
Published: June 2022

The increasing demand for safe lithium‐ion batteries with high energy density has pushed the development of all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs). With the development of promising solid electrolytes (SEs) such as Li10GeP2S12 and Li6PS5Cl with high ionic conductivity in recent years, the bottleneck for high‐performance ASSBs is no longer sluggish Li+ diffusion caused by SEs. Furthermore, significant improvement in the cycle performance has been achieved by understanding electrochemomechanical properties, preventing undesirable side reactions between SEs and active materials, and employing advanced packaging technology. However, poor rate capability caused by several factors, including sluggish Li+ kinetics at the interface between active materials and SEs, poor interfacial contact between particles, thick SE layers, and Li dendrite growth, limits the practical applications, especially in electric vehicles. The high‐rate performance is of paramount importance in the current development of battery technology. In this review, the fundamental understanding of the parameters governing the rate capability in ASSBs is discussed and the distinctive features and research strategies toward high‐rate performance are highlighted. The discussion and perspectives about kinetic rate limitations and research strategies are expected to stimulate further progress in fast charging ASSBs.
Mechanism of Degradation of Capacity and Charge/Discharge Voltages of High‐Ni Cathode During Fast Long‐Term Cycling Without Voltage Margin
Authors: Park Jae Yeol , Jo Minji , Hong Seungki , Park Seunggyu , Park Jae‐Ho , Kim Yong‐Il , Kim Sang‐Ok , Chung Kyung Yoon , Byun Dongjin , Kim Seung Min , Chang Wonyoung
Published: June 2022

The authors reveal the mechanisms of degradation of capacity, charge voltage, and discharge voltage of commercially‐available high‐nickel cathode material when it is cycled without a voltage margin by two different charge protocols: constant‐current charging and constant‐current, constant‐voltage charging. With repeated constant‐current charging, the cathode material changes to a non‐periodic cation‐mixed state, which causes a relatively low voltage degradation, whereas during constant‐current, constant‐voltage charging, the cathode material changes from a layered structure to a periodic cation‐mixed spinel‐like phase, with consequent severe voltage decay. This decay results from a reduction in the equilibrium electrode potential and an increase of overpotential which are aggravated in a periodic cation‐mixed state. The findings provide insights into the use of excess Li without charge‐voltage margin in high‐Ni cathode materials.
Anti‐Aggregation of Nanosized CoS2 for Stable K‐Ion Storage: Insights into Aggregation‐Induced Electrode Failures
Authors: Zhang Hehe , Cheng Yong , Sun Jingjie , Ye Weibin , Ke Chengzhi , Cai Mengting , Gao Haowen , Wei Ping , Zhang Qiaobao , Wang Ming‐Sheng
Published: June 2022

As promising conversion‐type anode materials for potassium‐ion storage, transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) exhibit high energy density but suffer severe capacity fading, which is generally ascribed to their large volume expansion and the associated structural degradation. Instead, this study emphasizes that the aggregation of nanosized TMCs during conversion reaction is a more crucial reason for the following serious electrode failures. This issue has not received enough attention, and especially the detailed aggregation mechanism and its relationship to electrode failures remains unclear. Thus, by combining in situ and ex‐situ electron microscopies, the aggregation evolution of nanosized CoS2 is systematically investigated from micro to macro scale. The aggregation originates from the coalescence of the K2S matrix during potassiation, which constantly develops into larger‐scale agglomerates as the cycling continues, eventually leading to electrode fragmentation, etc. To address this issue, an anti‐aggregation strategy is proposed through isolating CoS2 nanoparticles inside individual carbon nanoshells. Impressively, the CoS2 aggregation is strictly confined within each nanoshell, which prevents their extensive aggregation across the electrode, resulting in the superior structural and electrochemical stability. This work reveals the mechanism of aggregation‐induced electrode failures and proposes the necessity of anti‐aggregation of nanosized active materials for the design of high‐capacity electrodes.
A missense mutation in DDRGK1 gene associated to Shohat‐type spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia: Two case reports and a review of literature
Authors: Franceschi Roberto , Iascone Maria , Maitz Silvia , Marchetti Daniela , Mariani Milena , Selicorni Angelo , Soffiati Massimo , Maines Evelina
Published: June 2022

Spondylo‐epi‐metaphyseal dysplasia Shohat type (SEMDSH, OMIM # 602557) is a rare skeletal dysplasia. Until recently, only eight patients of five families have been reported. The disorder is characterized by severely disproportionate short stature with a short neck, small trunk with abdominal distension, and short lower limbs. Joint laxity and bowed legs are seen. The same homozygous splicing pathogenic variant in the DDRGK1 gene was found in four Iraqi families. Here we report a homozygous missense pathogenic variant in DDRGK1 in two children from unrelated two Moroccan families. The clinical and radiological phenotypes of the affected children were similar to those previously described.
A combination model of AD biomarkers revealed by machine learning precisely predicts Alzheimer's dementia: China Aging and Neurodegenerative Initiative (CANDI) study
Authors: Gao Feng , Lv Xinyi , Dai Linbin , Wang Qiong , Wang Peng , Cheng Zhaozhao , Xie Qiang , Ni Ming , Wu Yan , Chai Xianliang , Wang Wenjing , Li Huaiyu , Yu Feng , Cao Yuqin , Tang Fang , Pan Bo , Wang Guoping , Deng Kexue , Wang Shicun , Tang Qiqiang , Shi Jiong , Shen Yong
Published: June 2022

Introduction

To test the utility of the “A/T/N” system in the Chinese population, we study core Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers in a newly established Chinese cohort.

Methods

A total of 411 participants were selected, including 96 cognitively normal individuals, 94 patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients, 173 patients with AD, and 48 patients with non‐AD dementia. Fluid biomarkers were measured with single molecule array. Amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition was determined by 18F‐Flobetapir positron emission tomography (PET), and brain atrophy was quantified using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results

Aβ42/Aβ40 was decreased, whereas levels of phosphorylated tau (p‐tau) were increased in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma from patients with AD. CSF Aβ42/Aβ40, CSF p‐tau, and plasma p‐tau showed a high concordance in discriminating between AD and non‐AD dementia or elderly controls. A combination of plasma p‐tau, apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype, and MRI measures accurately predicted amyloid PET status.

Discussion

These results revealed a universal applicability of the “A/T/N” framework in a Chinese population and established an optimal diagnostic model consisting of cost‐effective and non‐invasive approaches for diagnosing AD.
Reaktionen an der Gegenelektrode – wichtige Stolpersteine auf dem Weg einer funktionierenden elektro‐organischen Synthese
Authors: Klein Martin , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: June 2022

In den letzten zwei Jahrzehnten hat die elektro‐organische Synthese signifikant an Interesse gewonnen, sowohl in technischer und akademischer Forschung als auch in der Anwendung. Der Verzicht auf Oxidations‐ und Reduktionsmittel in stöchiometrischen Mengen ermöglicht eine nachhaltigere Alternative, Redoxreaktionen in der organischen Chemie durchzuführen. Auch wenn bekannt ist, dass jede elektrochemische Oxidation nur zusammen mit einer assoziierten Reduktion durchführbar ist und umgekehrt, wird die Relevanz der Gegenreaktion oft wenig beachtet. In diesem Aufsatz wird die Bedeutung der korrespondierenden Gegenreaktion beleuchtet und welchen Einfluss diese auf die Durchführbarkeit und Selektivität einer elektrochemischen Umsetzung hat. Anhand einer Auswahl üblicher Strategien und einzigartiger Konzepte werden Lösungen für dieses Problem aufgeführt. Dies ergibt einen Leitfaden zur Auswahl geeigneter Gegenreaktionen in der elektro‐organischen Synthese.
Optimizing Pt Electronic States through Formation of a Schottky Junction on Non‐reducible Metal–Organic Frameworks for Enhanced Photocatalysis
Authors: Sun Zi‐Xuan , Sun Kang , Gao Ming‐Liang , Metin Önder , Jiang Hai‐Long
Published: June 2022

Charge transfer between metal sites and supports is crucial for catalysis. Redox‐inert supports are usually unfavorable due to their less electronic interaction with metal sites, which, we demonstrate, is not always correct. Herein, three metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are chosen to mimic inert or active supports for Pt nanoparticles (NPs) and the photocatalysis is studied. Results demonstrate the formation of a Schottky junction between Pt and the MOFs, leading to the electron‐donation effect of the MOFs. Under light irradiation, both the MOF electron‐donation effect and Pt interband excitation dominate the Pt electron density. Compared with the “active” UiO‐66 and MIL‐125 supports, Pt NPs on the “inert” ZIF‐8 exhibit higher electron density due to the higher Schottky barrier, resulting in superior photocatalytic activity. This work optimizes metal catalysts with non‐reducible supports, and promotes the understanding of the relationship between the metal–support interaction and photocatalysis.
Task‐Specific Janus Materials in Heterogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Vafaeezadeh Majid , Thiel Werner R.
Published: June 2022

Janus materials are anisotropic nano‐ and microarchitectures with two different faces consisting of distinguishable or opposite physicochemical properties. In parallel with the discovery of new methods for the fabrication of these materials, decisive progress has been made in their application, for example, in biological science, catalysis, pharmaceuticals, and, more recently, in battery technology. This Minireview systematically covers recent and significant achievements in the application of task‐specific Janus nanomaterials as heterogeneous catalysts in various types of chemical reactions, including reduction, oxidative desulfurization and dye degradation, asymmetric catalysis, biomass transformation, cascade reactions, oxidation, transition‐metal‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions, electro‐ and photocatalytic reactions, as well as gas‐phase reactions. Finally, an outlook on possible future applications is given.
Effect of replacing UDMA by a new tetramethacrylate monomer on the properties of dental resin composite
Authors: Pérez‐Mondragón Alma Antonia , Trejo‐Carbajal Nayely , Cuevas‐Suárez Carlos E. , Donado Fernando , Herrera‐González Ana M.
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study is to synthesize the tetramethacrylate monomer (TIMA) and evaluate its effect as a substituent for UDMA in the formulation of photopolymerizable dental resin composites (DRC).1H NMR,13C NMR and FTIR spectroscopies corroborate the chemical structure of the TIMA monomer. The experimental composite resin is a mixture of TIMA/TEGDMA monomers and silanized inorganic filler while, the control resin is a mixture of UDMA/TEGDMA and filler. The double‐bond conversion, polymerization kinetics, volumetric shrinkage, aqueous sorption, solubility, mechanical properties, and cell viability are studied. The flexural strength of the composite resin formulated with TIMA monomer does not show statistical differences compared to the control (p > 0.05). However, formulations with the TIMA monomer presented higher elastic modulus (2425.37 MPa) and lower degree of conversion 38.5%, (p < 0.05). The differences in the water sorption, water solubility and volumetric shrinkage are not statistically significant between the groups (p > 0.05). Finally, the cell viability test show that the experimental resin formulated with TIMA monomer exhibited a cellular viability close to 100%. Due to its characteristics, TIMA monomer could be considered an alternative to UDMA in the composite resins with applications in dentistry.
One‐pot route to hyperbranched polyethylenimine‐dictated open cellular monolith as effective and charge‐selective adsorbent
Authors: Xu Sunkai , Jin Ming , Du Jiang , Wan Decheng
Published: June 2022

This study shows a one‐pot route to open cellular and functional monoliths. An oil‐in‐water high or medium internal phase emulsion readily forms by dropping oil into a dispersion of microcrystalline cellulose (MC) in aqueous branched polyethylenimine (PEI) solution. Crosslinking of PEI followed by removing the volatile yields an open cellular monolith. The key point of this strategy is that PEI can act as an emulsifier at high pH and simultaneously as reactants and finally as absorbing component. Results show that the rigid MC skeleton is fully covered by the flexible PEI network. The active amine content of the monolith reaches up to 3.3 mmol NH per g monolith. The open‐cellular structure stems from volume contraction. The porous monolith can sequester trace anionic dyes in water with an absorbing capacity up to 440 mg g−1 monolith, whereas the adsorption is highly charge‐selective. The monolith is pH‐recyclable and facilely separable from water.
Production of ultrafiltration membranes exhibiting antibacterial properties by the incorporation of novel N‐halamine copolymers
Authors: Demirci Fatma , Aydın Ahmet , Orhan Mehmet , Koçer Hasan Basri
Published: June 2022

Antibacterial PVDF flat sheet membranes are produced with the directly incorporation of novel synthesized N‐halamine copolymers having high chlorine loading capacity and compatible with the base polymer. FTIR and 1H NMR analysis are applied to the synthesized polymers and the presence of the polymers in the produce membrane structures are determined with FTIR and XPS analysis. To get information about phase separation behavior of the membrane solutions, ternary phase diagrams of the synthesized copolymers, PVDF, and their mixed solutions are prepared. The effect of synthesized polymers on membrane pore formation is revealed with ternary phase diagrams, water flux performance, BSA rejection performance, and SEM images of the produced membranes. Two different biocidal tests are applied to the membranes to determine the effectiveness of the membrane surfaces against biofilm formation, the speed of antibacterial efficiency and the duration of the biocidal activity of the membranes. The tests results show that only a small amount of copolymer incorporation into PVDF membranes solutions enables to production of antibacterial membranes with a long‐term and rapid efficacy against S. aureus and E. coli bacteria.
Serologic Biomarkers of Progression Toward Diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis in Active Component Military Personnel
Authors: Loza Matthew J. , Nagpal Sunil , Cole Suzanne , Laird Renee M. , Alcala Ashley , Rao Navin L. , Riddle Mark S. , Porter Chad K.
Published: June 2022

Objective

To identify a panel of serum biomarkers that could specifically identify imminent cases of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) before diagnosis.

Methods

Serum samples were collected at 4 time points from active component US military personnel, including 157 anti–citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA)–seropositive and 50 ACPA‐seronegative RA subjects, 100 reactive arthritis (ReA) subjects, and 76 healthy controls. The cohorts were split into 2 phases, with samples tested on independent proteomic platforms for each phase. Classification models of RA diagnosis based on samples obtained within 6 months prior to diagnosis were developed both in univariate analyses and by multivariate random forest modeling of training sample sets and testing sample sets from each phase.

Results

Increases in serum analytes, including C‐reactive protein levels, serum amyloid A, and soluble programmed cell death 1 (PD‐1), were observed in seropositive RA subjects at the time point closest to diagnosis, up to several years before diagnosis. Only a small fraction of RA subjects had levels above the 95th percentile of healthy control levels until the time period within 6 months of diagnosis. For classification of RA diagnosis using samples obtained within 6 months prior to diagnosis, soluble PD‐1 provided superior specificity compared to ReA cases (>89%), with a sensitivity of 48% for RA classification. An 8‐analyte model provided superior sensitivity (69%), with comparable specificity relative to ReA (>82%).

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that imminent RA diagnosis could be classified with high specificity, relative to healthy controls and ReA cases, using a panel of cytokines measured in serum samples collected within 6 months before actual diagnosis.
Rhodamine‐thiourea Linked Naphthalimide Derivative to Image ATP in Mitochondria using Two Channels
Authors: Rim Lee You , Kwon Nahyun , Swamy K. M. K. , Kim Gyoungmi , Yoon Juyoung
Published: June 2022

Adenosine 5′‐triphosphate (ATP), synthesized in mitochondria, is an energy molecule in all living things. ATP not only serves as an energy source for protein synthesis and muscle contraction, but also as an important indicator for various diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, cardiovascular disease, and others. Accordingly, detection and sensing of ATP, especially in mitochondria, are important. In this study, a unique ring‐opening process of rhodamine was coupled to recognition of ATP via introduction of a thiourea moiety, which was further linked to a naphthalimide group. A strong fluorescent emission at ∼580 nm was accompanied by a color change from colorless to pink upon addition of ATP at pH 7.4. Fluorescent probe 1 successfully imaged mitochondrial ATP with a Pearson's coefficient of 0.8. In addition, green emission from the naphthalimide moiety at ∼530 nm was observed without any change upon addition of ATP. This emission can be considered equivalent to an internal standard to utilize probe 1 as a dual‐channel probe for ATP. Furthermore, probe 1 showed negligible cytotoxicity based on MTT assays.
An analysis of China's biomass briquette fuel large‐scale steam heating system
Authors: Zhang Runkai , Wang Yapeng , Sun Yufeng , Wang Zhanwu , Gao Jing , Guo HaiQin , Cheng Shangshang , Xu Guanghui , Li Baoqian , Xu Guangyin
Published: June 2022

The current study took Henan Wufeng New Energy Science Technology Co. Ltd as an example to investigate a large‐scale steam heating system with biomass briquette fuel in Henan, China. Drawn on several months of field research, the economic cost and greenhouse gas emissions for peanut shell straw collection, transportation, storage and burning at Henan Wufeng New Energy Science Technology Co. Ltd were analyzed in 2021. Moreover, the economic cost and greenhouse gas emissions were used as evaluation indicators to evaluate the biomass molding fuel supply system systemically. Economic analysis shows that the steam heating system can make a profit of 1.72 × 106 yuan per year, and the input–output ratio (ROI) is 93.87%, which is much higher than the benchmark input–output ratio (30%). The very high ROI indicates that the system is difficult to operate in an economically feasible manner. Greenhouse gas emission analysis demonstrates that at the same heating level, the system can save 4.42 × 107 kg of standard coal and reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases to the environment by 1.25 × 105 tCO2eq, which has significant environmental benefits. Taken together, the government should adopt effective economic policies to promote the efficient use of biomass straw and support biomass straw recycling and heating enterprises. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A facile turn‐on chemiluminescence probe for sensitive imaging on aminopeptidase N activity
Authors: Sun Ru , Wu Xuesong , Mao Yanjia , Wang Hongbo , Bian Chong , Lv Panpan , Zhao Zhen , Li Xinwei , Fu Wei , Lu Jianzhong , Cao Zhijuan
Published: June 2022

Aminopeptidase N, as a target for drug discovery, shows marked relationships with many diseases, especially liver injury and cancer. Here, we explored a chemiluminescence (CL) probe for sensing APN by tethering the APN‐specific substrate group to the ortho‐acrylated phenoxy‐dioxetane scaffold. In this way, two CL probes (APN‐CL and BAPN‐CL) were designed with noncapped leucine and butoxy‐carbonyl capped leucine as the protecting group to preserve the chemiexcitation energy. The uncovered leucine was demonstrated to be essential for detection of APN activity by comparing the CL intensity of two CL probes. Probe APN‐CL was turned on upon APN cleavage, resulting in a high chemiluminescent emission, whereas the chemiexcitation energy of probe BAPN‐CL was still restrained even with the high‐level APN. The result was further elucidated by molecular docking simulations. Probe APN‐CL exhibited a fast response and high sensitivity with a detection limit of 0.068 U/L, and an excellent specificity for the discrimination of APN from biological ions, small molecules, and other proteases commonly found in living system. By virtue of good stability and cell viability, probe APN‐CL imaged abnormal levels of APN in tumour cells and tumour‐bearing mice. Moreover, this probe APN‐CL could be easily used to evaluate APN inhibitors and APN levels in plasma samples from 20 patients. Overall, as a facile and cost‐effective probe, APN‐CL will be a promising alternative in the early diagnosis of pathologies and for cost‐effective screening of inhibitors.
Stakeholder theory and actor‐network theory: The stakeholder engagement in energy transitions
Authors: Marcon Nora Gabriela Almeida , Alberton Anete , Ayala Diego Hernando Florez
Published: June 2022

The idea of sustainable development highlights the need to address economic, social, and environmental aspects to preserve the rights and needs of future generations. This paper proposes an association between stakeholder theory (ST) and Actor‐Network Theory (ANT) that can better explain the dynamics of actors in the energy sector, in the context of sociotechnical transitions to sustainability. By selectively examining the way in which different researchers perceive this subject, we intend to address how the engagement of the stakeholders can promote sociotechnical transitions in the energy sector trough the connection between ST and ANT. We aim to characterize the dynamics of stakeholder's engagement in sociotechnical transitions in the context of sustainability in the energy sector, trough the connection of the two theories. A narrative literature review was performed on scientific databases. The results showed that sociotechnical transitions in the energy sector require the involvement of multiple actors with different interests and that ST associated with ANT provides a good basis for research on this theme. The association of both theories highlights the importance of ST to enhance cooperation in the areas of clean energy research and technology, providing a theoretical tool for understanding the dynamics of transitions and its different pathways. For future studies, it is recommended to deepen the relationship between human and non‐human actors and their role as stakeholders.
Orbital inflammatory disease following mRNA SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine
Authors: Grunenwald Solange , Lethellier Gabriel , Imbert Philippe , Dekeister Céline , Caron Philippe
Published: June 2022

A 65‐year‐old woman reported orbital symptoms two days after her first dose and presented exacerbation of signs after the second dose of BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine. The temporal relationship between the COVID‐19 vaccination and orbital symptoms suggests a probable link between SARS‐CoV‐2 mRNA vaccine and this orbital inflammatory disease.
Effects of the Chalcogenide Identity in N‐Aryl Phenochalcogenazine Photoredox Catalysts
Authors: Corbin Daniel A. , Cremer Christopher , Puffer Katherine O. , Newell Brian S. , Patureau Frederic W. , Miyake Garret M.
Published: June 2022

Phenochalcogenazines such as phenoxazines and phenothiazines have been widely employed as photoredox catalysts (PCs) in small molecule and polymer synthesis. However, the effect of the chalcogenide in these catalysts has not been fully investigated. In this work, a series of four phenochalcogenazines is synthesized to understand how the chalcogenide impacts catalyst properties and performance. Increasing the size of the chalcogenide is found to distort the PC structure, ultimately impacting the properties of each PC. For example, larger chalcogenides destabilize the PC radical cation, possibly resulting in catalyst degradation. In addition, PCs with larger chalcogenides experience increased reorganization during electron transfer, leading to slower electron transfer. Ultimately, catalyst performance is evaluated in organocatalyzed atom transfer radical polymerization and a photooxidation reaction for C(sp2)−N coupling. Results from these experiments highlight that a balance of PC properties is most beneficial for catalysis, including a long‐lived excited state, a stable radical cation, and a low reorganization energy.
Synthesis of Laser‐Induced Cobalt Oxide for Non‐Enzymatic Electrochemical Glucose Sensors
Authors: Kang Seung‐Jo , Pak James Jungho
Published: June 2022

In this study, an electrochemical non‐enzymatic glucose sensor based on cobalt oxide was designed through CO2 laser irradiation on a Co‐hydrogel formed by spin‐coating a mixture of CoCl2 and gelatin on a polyimide (PI) film. The PI film, which absorbed IR energy through laser irradiation, was grown into laser‐induced graphene fiber (LIGF) with high electrical conductivity and a large surface area. The Co‐hydrogel absorbed the laser‘s IR energy and grew into laser‐induced Co3O4 nano particles (LICONPs) without high temperature annealing for several hours. Because the Co‐hydrogel and the PI film were simultaneously irradiated with laser, LICONPs were attached to the surface of the LIGF, so it had an active surface area 10.5 times larger than the geometric area. The fabricated LICONPs/LIGF was then utilized as a non‐enzymatic glucose sensor working electrode, resulting in high sensitivity of 187,129 μA mM−1 cm−2 in the range of 1–30 μm and low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.10 μm. In addition, LICONPs/LIGF also showed stable reproducibility, repeatability and long‐term stability when used as a part of working electrode of a non‐enzymatic glucose sensor.
Finding reliable methodology for optical rotation and correct predictions of (s)‐methyloxirane and (1R,5R)‐β‐pinene
Authors: de Albuquerque Barros Gabriel , Henrique Morgon Nelson
Published: June 2022

Theoretical calculations of optical rotation (OR), although important to predict absolute configurations (ACs) and corroborate experiments, require efficient methodology able to reproduce enantiomer specificity and real OR values. Also, troublesome molecules are recurring in the literature, such as (S)‐methyloxirane and (1R,5R)‐β‐pinene. This study evaluates DFT functionals B3LYP, CAM‐B3LYP, ωB97X‐D, M06‐2X, and PBE0 considering basis sets aug‐cc‐pVDZ, aug‐cc‐pVTZ, 6‐311++G(2d,p), and 6‐311++G(3df,2p) in OR prediction of 42 rigid organic molecules assessing cases with wrong enantiomeric determination comparing to available experimental data at wavelengths 355, 589, and 633 nm. Functionals CAM‐B3LYP and ωB97X‐D with aug‐cc‐pVTZ are indicated here to reproduce experimental values more accurately considering fewer number of wrong AC predictions, normalized RMSD values below 0.70, and a good approximation to experimental values in hierarchical cluster analysis. Methyloxirane AC was reproduced in CAM‐B3LYP and PBE0, with
for CAM‐B3LYP/aug‐cc‐pVTZ close to experimental value
. Good results were found for AC of β‐pinene in M06‐2X, CAM‐B3LYP, and ωB97X‐D while the latter in 6‐311++G(3df,2p) obtained OR values of
and
close to experimental values
and
. The two molecules aforementioned are, for the first time, reported to give valid theoretical OR values in such simple methodologies. OR calculations were all performed after geometry optimization at the same level of theory, and analysis of different functional combinations for each step in β‐pinene showed it can interfere with AC prediction even in rigid molecules.
Dimeric G‐quadruplex DNA Structure in the Proximal Promoter of VEGFR‐2 Reveals a New Drug Target to Inhibit Tumor Angiogenesis
Authors: Zhang Yipeng , Lan Wenxian , Wang Chunxi , Xue Hongjuan , Cao Chunyang
Published: June 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) regulates tumor angiogenesis, which is active on the endothelium via VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR‐2). The proximal promoter region of VEGFR‐2 (termed as VEGFR‐2 DNA) is guanine‐rich, forming G‐quadruplex (G4) structures. Here, we demonstrate that VEGFR‐2 DNA consists of one symmetrically dimeric 14‐mer G4‐DNA and one 12‐mer sequence‐palindromic dsDNA. This G4‐DNA adopts an unprecedented folding with five stacked tetrads linked by four broken strands. Its 5’‐end part contains an A‐tetrad A1•A4•A1’•A4’ and one G‐tetrad G3•G5•G3’•G5’ with two V‐shaped loops and two one‐nt edge‐type loops. Its 3’‐end part includes three G‐tetrads G10•G6•G10’•G6’, G11•G7•G11’•G7’ (central) and G12•G8•G12’•G8’ spanned by two double‐chain‐reversal one‐nt (C9 or C9’) loops. Bases G13 and G13’ stack with G‐tetrad G12•G8•G12’•G8’. These characteristics make this G4‐DNA more stable than reported VEGFR‐17T G4 structure. The dsDNA connects with G4‐DNA without any interactions, generating a linear assembly with G4‐DNA structural bulges. These studies uncover new structural features of VEGFR‐2 DNA as a potential drug target by inhibiting VEGFR‐2 expression, thereby tumor angiogenesis.
CSRbest practices for global multi‐tier sustainable supply chain integration ofChinese MNEs
Authors: Scuotto Veronica , Chin Tachia , Pezzi Alberto , Pironti Marco
Published: June 2022

The interest in global multi‐tier sustainable supply chains is growing proportionally to its increase in developing countries. Developing countries are considered the new fertile territory for developing global chains for multinational enterprises (MNEs). Despite the positive outcomes derived from this global development, it also induces negative impacts in the domain of domestic firms' competition, education, welfare and infrastructure system. A way to overcome this pessimistic view has been found in corporate social responsibility (CSR) best practices. MNEs seek to involve local stakeholders in their social activities to show their commitment and generate innovations. It calls for a multi‐tier domestic involvement integrated into a global supply chain to create value. This study builds its empirical analysis exploring a range of 1547 Chinese manufacturing multinational enterprises listed in the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges between 2010 and 2018. The findings revealed that multi‐tier supply chain integration (SCI) practices positively moderate the relationship between CSR and MNE performance. In turn, it implies benefits for developing sustainable development goals, generating new job opportunities mostly in the developing countries guaranteeing wealth employment conditions. The sense of involvement and engagement towards their employees requires more development of CSR practices, which can be moderated by multi‐tier SCI, as shown in the present study.
High‐accuracy mean circuits design by manipulating correlation for stochastic computing
Authors: Wang Shaowei , Xie Guangjun , Xu Wenbing , Cheng Xin , Zhang Yongqiang
Published: June 2022

Stochastic computing (SC) encodes numerical values into probabilistic binary bitstreams to enable complex arithmetic operations to be transformed into simple bit operations. Different operations can be performed through the same SC element by adjusting the correlation between bitstreams. In this work, two stochastic mean circuits (MCs) are proposed by manipulating positively and negatively correlated bitstreams, respectively named PCMC and NCMC, to improve computing accuracy, lower area, and power consumption. Furthermore, a general structure for MCs, denoted as GMC, is also proposed to generalize their design approach. Compared with the existing multiplexer (MUX)‐based stochastic MCs, the proposed circuits have approximately 50%, 59%, 61%, and 64% reduction in area, and 100×, 10×, 151×, and 12 × improvement in MSE, for 2‐, 3‐, 4‐, and 5‐input situations, respectively. With applications to edge detection and mean filtering, the proposed designs are superior to the existing counterparts in terms of accuracy and hardware cost.
Dual‐band dual‐sense broadband circularly polarized parasitic ring loaded monopole antenna for satellite applications
Authors: Bag Biplab , Mondal Kalyan , Sarkar Partha Pratim
Published: June 2022

A novel‐shaped dual‐band circularly polarized (CP) monopole antenna is proposed. Two parasitic strips are fabricated under the unique shaped monopole element to get dual broad operation bands. The proposed antenna is fabricated on the FR4 substrate with the specification of the substrate dimension 40 mm × 30 mm,
,
, and loss tangent
. The parasitic elements are responsible to improve the current distribution
and
on the surface. Two CP modes are developed for orthogonally distributions of
and
fields with same magnitude. All the successive CP modes are merged, and a broad AR BW is achieved. The RHCP and LHCP waves radiate along the broadside direction at the lower and higher frequency bands. The achieved two impedance bandwidth and axial ratio (AR) bandwidth are 1.5 GHz (7.05–8.55 GHz), 4.45 GHz (11.65–16.1 GHz) and 1.4 GHz (7.1–8.5 GHz), 0.2 GHz (14.6–14.8 GHz). A very good gain response along with two peak gains of 5.5 dBi and 5.9 dBi is achieved. The proposed antenna is applicable for International Telecommunication Union (ITU) satellite communication (7.25–7.75 GHz, 7.9–8.4 GHz) and Ku‐band satellite applications (11.7–12.2 GHz) and (14–14.5 GHz).
Weight‐bearing physical activity in people with diabetes‐related foot disease: A systematic review
Authors: van Netten Jaap J. , Fijen Vera M. , Bus Sicco A.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Weight‐bearing physical activity is important for people with diabetes‐related foot disease but may also contribute to ulceration or delayed ulcer healing. No overview of weight‐bearing activity of people at different stages of foot disease is available. We aimed to summarise quantitatively measured daily activity levels in people with diabetes‐related foot disease.

Methods

We systematically searched peer‐reviewed literature for studies reporting objectively measured weight‐bearing activity in people with diabetes‐related foot disease. We calculated daily step counts' means (over studies) and weighted means (over participants). International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) risk strata, different climates, and activity indoors versus outdoors were compared.

Results

From 1247 publications, 27 were included. Mean steps/day in people with IWGDF risk 1/2: 6125 (12 studies; 345 participants; weighted mean: 5384). In IWGDF risk 3: 6167 (8 studies; 291 participants; weighted mean: 6239). In those with a foot ulcer: 4248 (6 studies; 186 participants; weighted mean: 4484). People living in temperate oceanic climates are more active compared to those in hotter or more humid climates (mean steps/day for no ulcer: 7712 vs. 5224 [18 studies]; for ulcer: 6819 vs. 2945 [6 studies]). People are more active indoors than outdoors (mean 4047 vs. 2514 [3 studies]).

Conclusion

Levels of weight‐bearing physical activity are similar between people with diabetes at various risk levels for foot ulceration but lower for those with a foot ulcer. Weight‐bearing activity differs depending on the climatological environment and is higher indoors than outdoors. These findings provide reference for intervention studies or for clinicians aiming to provide mobility advice in this population.