bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phototactic Miniature Soft Robots with Terrain Adaptability
Authors: Zhao Tonghui , Fang Wei , Fan Yangyang , Hu Zhiming , Wu Han , Feng Xi‐Qiao , Lv Jiu‐an
Published: March 2022

Miniature locomotive robots that can adaptively change shapes to accommodate to various terrains have technologically significant applications ranging from noninvasive operations, environmental monitoring, to biomedical devices. However, existing miniature robots face two practical bottlenecks: limited mobility and low robustness, which severely restrict their applicability. In this work, terrain‐adaptive miniature soft robots that can be powered, guided, and maneuvered on challenging terrains by a versatile phototactic strategy are created. These robots, constructed by a rationally designed liquid crystal elastomer with powerful photomechanical actuation, enable self‐actuation to generate autonomous and self‐sustained rolling locomotion under constant near‐infrared light stimuli without any on‐off switching. They outperform previous light‐driven miniature robots and exhibit exceptional terrain adaptability to traverse a diversity of simple and complex terrains, and even hybrid terrains with varying topology, mechanics, and rheology. The terrain‐adaptive robots can directionally leap over hurdlers, and even exert high jumping to overcome high wall obstacle. It is envisioned that this proposed technique would enable the design of miniature mobile robots that can accommodate varying terrains and fulfill multiple tasks in unpredictable environments.
Microflow Manipulation by Velocity Field Gradient: Spontaneous Patterning of Silver Nanowires for Tailored Flexible Transparent Conductors
Authors: Li Lingying , Li Wanli , Liu Xuying , Tenjimbayashi Mizuki , Segawa Hiroyo , Niikura Chisato , Nakayama Tomonobu , Minari Takeo
Published: March 2022

Flexible transparent conductors (TCs) are the fundamental components for emerging soft optoelectronics because of their excellent optical, electrical, and mechanical properties. These properties are attributed to reasonable alignment of conductive functional nanomaterials, especially 1D inorganic nanowires. Although various patterning technologies are proposed, patterning highly transparent conductors with satisfactory conductivity and flexibility in a facile, scalable, and versatile manner remains an open issue. Here, a directed self‐assembly strategy is presented for patterning silver nanowires (AgNWs) into flexible TCs with a cross‐linked network structure using microflow velocity‐field‐induced alignment at a liquid–solid interface. Under dual‐surface architectonics, the periodically varying internal microflow in the overcoated AgNW suspension facilitates the spontaneous alignment of the AgNWs on the designated regions in a layer‐by‐layer manner, yielding highly ordered AgNW TCs with an ultrahigh transmittance (98.2%), low sheet resistance (29.7 Ω sq−1), and prominent mechanical deformability. The proposed strategy is further applied to fabricate high‐accuracy arbitrary AgNW circuits to realize flexible transparent heaters with adjustable localized heat sources. This is a universal and customizable method for producing functional nanomaterials with hardly any scale or shape limitations in a streamlined fashion and provides great freedom for prototyping and manufacturing high‐performance soft optoelectronics.
A New Strategy of 3D Printing Lightweight Lamellar Graphene Aerogels for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding and Piezoresistive Sensor Applications
Authors: Guo Hao , Hua Tianxiang , Qin Jing , Wu Qixin , Wang Rui , Qian Bo , Li Lingying , Shi Xuejun
Published: March 2022

Lamellar 3D structures are beneficial to raise the electrical properties of graphene aerogels like electrical conductivity, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding efficiency (SE) and pressure sensitivity. In this paper, a strategy of 3D printing lamellar graphene aerogel (LGA) based on shear‐thinning and ice‐growth‐inhibition mechanisms is demonstrated. A well‐designed slit extrusion printhead is used to produce shear thinning graphene oxide (GO) water‐based dispersions. Tert‐butyl alcohol is added into GO water‐based dispersions to inhibit ice growth which will destroy the GO flakes arrangement. After freeze‐drying and chemical reduction of the printed GO samples, the lightweight LGAs are prepared. Comparing to the traditional way, the strategy in this paper shows much better size and shape scalable freedom. The LGA exhibits electrical conductivity up to 705.6 S m−1, which is rather high for graphene‐based aerogels. Benefiting from the lamellar structure and high electrical conductivity, the aerogel achieves up to 68.75 dB EMI SE at X‐band with the thickness of 3 mm, while the absolute EMI SE can reach up to 15351.9 dB cm3 g−1. The LGA can also be used as a piezoelectric pressure sensor, which exhibits high compressible stress and rapid response time.
Ultra‐Low Threshold Titanium‐Doped Sapphire Whispering‐Gallery Laser
Authors: Azeem Farhan , Trainor Luke S. , Gao Ang , Isarov Maya , Strekalov Dmitry V. , Schwefel Harald G. L.
Published: March 2022

Titanium doped sapphire (Ti:sapphire) is a laser gain material with broad gain bandwidth benefiting from the material stability of sapphire. These favorable characteristics of Ti:sapphire have given rise to femtosecond lasers and optical frequency combs. Shaping a single Ti:sapphire crystal into a millimeter sized high quality (Q) whispering gallery mode resonator (Q ≈ 108) reduces the lasing threshold to 14.2 mW and increases the laser slope efficiency to 34%. The observed lasing can be both multi‐mode and single‐mode. This is the first demonstration of a Ti:sapphire whispering‐gallery laser. Furthermore, a novel method of evaluating the gain in Ti:sapphire in the near infrared region is demonstrated by introducing a probe laser with a central wavelength of 795 nm. This method results in decreasing linewidth of the modes excited with the probe laser, consequently increasing their Q. These findings open avenues for the usage of whispering gallery mode resonators as cavities for the implementation of compact Ti:sapphire lasers. Moreover, Ti:sapphire whispering‐gallery laser can also be utilized as an amplifier inside its gain bandwidth by implementing a pump–probe configuration.
Synthesis of Spirooxindole‐Benzo[d]oxazoles and Dihydrobenzofurans through Cycloaddition and Rearrangement of N‐Vinyl Nitrones and Arynes
Authors: Yuan Hao , Lu Dong‐Liu , Liang Cui , Mo Dong‐Liang
Published: March 2022

Various spirooxindole‐benzo[d]oxazoles and dihydrobenzofurans were prepared in good to excellent yields by [3+2] cycloaddition and selective rearrangement of N‐vinyl oxindole nitrones and arynes under transition metal‐free conditions. Experimental results showed that the substituent on the nitrone N‐vinyl group controlled the [1,3]‐ or [3,3]‐rearrangement of their cycloadduct owing to its steric effect. The present method features broad substrate scope, good functional group tolerance, controllable [1,3]‐ or [3,3]‐rearrangement, and diverse oxindole scaffolds.

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rGO‐CuOx Composites Reduced by Solid‐Phase Microwave Thermal Shock for High‐Efficient Seawater Desalination and Purification
Authors: Xiao Shuning , Zhao Xiuwen , Liu Suya , Xue Yuhua , Li Guisheng , Yang Junhe
Published: March 2022

The solid‐phase microwave thermal shock (SMTS) strategy is a novel method to fabricate micro‐nano composites via interface engineering. By exploiting the transient hot spot effect and arc discharge of strong microwave absorbing materials, rGO‐CuOx composites from GO‐Cu(OH)2 precursors within several 10‐s cycles are synthesized. In the composites, Cu2O nanoparticles show a narrow size distribution of 10–50 nm with metallic Cu nanoclusters uniformly distributed on the surface. The optimized sample exhibits excellent photothermal performance by coupling solar‐to‐thermal effects from phonons, free electrons, and electron acceptors. The seawater evaporation rate is 1.28 kg m‐2 h‐1 with 85.7% solar‐to‐vapor conversion efficiency under 1 sun radiation. Meanwhile, the composite evaporators are characterized by excellent anti‐salt and anti‐bacterial properties during the evaporation. The removal efficiency of Na+, Mg2+, K+, and Ca2+ is above 99.5%. These findings provide a sound basis for large‐scale desalination and purification of seawater.
Heparin‐Derived Theranostic Nanoprobes Overcome the Blood–Brain Barrier and Target Glioma in Murine Model
Authors: Samanta Sumanta , Le Joncour Vadim , Wegrzyniak Olivia , Rangasami Vignesh Kumar , Ali‐Löytty Harri , Hong Taehun , Selvaraju Ram Kumar , Aberg Ola , Hilborn Jons , Laakkonen Pirjo , Varghese Oommen P. , Eriksson Olof , Cabral Horacio , Oommen Oommen P.
Published: March 2022

The poor permeability of theranostic agents across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) significantly hampers the development of new treatment modalities for neurological diseases. A new biomimetic nanocarrier is discovered using heparin (HP) that effectively passes the BBB and targets glioblastoma. Specifically, HP‐coated gold nanoparticles (HP‐AuNPs) are designed that are labeled with three different imaging modalities namely, fluorescein (FITC‐HP‐AuNP), radioisotope 68Gallium (68Ga‐HP‐AuNPs), and MRI active gadolinium (Gd‐HP‐AuNPs). The systemic infusion of FITC‐HP‐AuNPs in three different mouse strains (C57BL/6JRj, FVB, and NMRI‐nude) displays excellent penetration and reveals uniform distribution of fluorescent particles in the brain parenchyma (69–86%) with some accumulation in neurons (8–18%) and microglia (4–10%). Tail‐vein administration of radiolabeled 68Ga‐HP‐AuNPs in healthy rats also show 68Ga‐HP‐AuNP inside the brain parenchyma and in areas containing cerebrospinal fluid, such as the lateral ventricles, the cerebellum, and brain stem. Finally, tail‐vein administration of Gd‐HP‐AuNPs (that displays ≈threefold higher relaxivity than that of commercial Gd‐DTPA) in an orthotopic glioblastoma (U87MG xenograft) model in nude mice demonstrates enrichment of T1‐contrast at the intracranial tumor with a gradual increase in the contrast in the tumor region between 1 and 3 h. It is believed, the finding offers the untapped potential of HP‐derived‐NPs to deliver cargo molecules for treating neurological disorders.
Conductive Tracks in Carbon Implanted Titania Nanotubes: Atomic‐Scale Insights from Experimentally Based Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Modeling
Authors: Holm Alexander , Kupferer Astrid , Mändl Stephan , Lotnyk Andriy , Mayr Stefan G.
Published: March 2022

Ion implantation of titania nanotubes is a highly versatile approach for tailoring structural and electrical properties. While recently self‐organized nanoscale compositional patterning has been reported, the atomistic foundations and impact on electronic structure are not established at this point. To study these aspects, ab initio molecular dynamic simulations based on atomic compositions in C implanted titania nanotubes according to elastic recoil detection analysis are employed. Consistent with experimental data, carbon accumulates in chainlike precipitates, which are favorable for enhancing conductivity, as revealed by density‐functional theory electronic ground states calculations are demonstrated.
Optimizing Piezoelectric Nanocomposites by High‐Throughput Phase‐Field Simulation and Machine Learning
Authors: Li Weixiong , Yang Tiannan , Liu Changshu , Huang Yuhui , Chen Chunxu , Pan Hong , Xie Guangzhong , Tai Huiling , Jiang Yadong , Wu Yongjun , Kang Zhao , Chen Long‐Qing , Su Yuanjie , Hong Zijian
Published: March 2022

Piezoelectric nanocomposites with oxide fillers in a polymer matrix combine the merit of high piezoelectric response of the oxides and flexibility as well as biocompatibility of the polymers. Understanding the role of the choice of materials and the filler‐matrix architecture is critical to achieving desired functionality of a composite towards applications in flexible electronics and energy harvest devices. Herein, a high‐throughput phase‐field simulation is conducted to systematically reveal the influence of morphology and spatial orientation of an oxide filler on the piezoelectric, mechanical, and dielectric properties of the piezoelectric nanocomposites. It is discovered that with a constant filler volume fraction, a composite composed of vertical pillars exhibits superior piezoelectric response and electromechanical coupling coefficient as compared to the other geometric configurations. An analytical regression is established from a linear regression‐based machine learning model, which can be employed to predict the performance of nanocomposites filled with oxides with a given set of piezoelectric coefficient, dielectric permittivity, and stiffness. This work not only sheds light on the fundamental mechanism of piezoelectric nanocomposites, but also offers a promising material design strategy for developing high‐performance polymer/inorganic oxide composite‐based wearable electronics.
Transparent, Photothermal, and Icephobic Surfaces via Layer‐by‐Layer Assembly
Authors: Wu Shuwang , Liang Zhenyu , Li Yupeng , Chay Sarah , He Zhiyuan , Tan Sicong , Wang Jianjun , Zhu Xinyuan , He Ximin
Published: March 2022

Icing and frosting on transparent surfaces compromise visibility on various optical equipment and transparent infrastructures. It remains challenging to fabricate energy‐saving coatings for harvesting solar energy while maintaining high transparency. Here, transparent, photothermic, and icephobic composite surfaces composed of photothermal nanomaterials and polyelectrolytes via layer‐by‐layer assembly are designed and constructed. The positively‐charged polypyrrole nanoparticles and negatively‐charged poly(acrylic acid) are assembled as exemplary materials via electrostatic attractions. The optically transparent photothermal coatings are successfully fabricated and exhibited photothermal capabilities and light‐transmittance performance. Among the various coatings applied, the seven‐bilayer coating can increase the temperature by 35 °C under 1.9‐sun illumination, maintaining high transmittance (>60%) of visible light. With sunlight illumination at subzero temperatures (> −35 °C), the coatings show pronounced capabilities to inhibit freezing, melt accumulated frost, and decrease ice adhesion. Precisely, the icephobic surfaces remain free of frost at −35 °C as long as sunlight illumination is present; the accumulated frost melts rapidly within 300 s. The ice adhesion strength decreases to ≈0 kPa as the melted water acts as a lubricant. Furthermore, the negatively‐charged graphene oxide and positively‐charged poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) show their material diversity applicable in the coating fabrication.
Near‐Infrared‐Activated Thermochromic Perovskite Smart Windows
Authors: Liu Sai , Li Yang , Wang Ying , Yu Kin Man , Huang Baoling , Tso Chi Yan
Published: March 2022

Perovskite‐based thermochromic smart windows that can change color have attracted much interest. However, the high transition temperature (>45 °C in air) hinders their practical application. Herein, a near‐infrared (NIR) activated thermochromic perovskite window that enables reversible transition cycles at room temperature is proposed. Under natural sunlight (>700 W m−2), it efficiently harvests 78% NIR light to trigger the thermochromism of perovskites, blocking the heat gain from both the visible and NIR light. Meanwhile, it also exhibits a low mid‐infrared emissivity of <0.3, suppressing thermal radiation to the indoor environment. A field test demonstrates that this smart window can reduce the indoor temperature by 8 °C compared to a normal glass window at noon. The near‐room‐temperature color change, multispectral thermal management, outstanding energy‐saving ability, and climate adaptability, and solution‐based process of this window make it unique and promising for real applications.
A Bifunctional Memristor Enables Multiple Neuromorphic Computing Applications
Authors: Lyapunov Nikolay , Zheng Xiao Dong , Yang Kevin , Liu Hao Min , Zhou Kai , Cai Song Hua , Ho Tsz Lung , Suen Chun Hung , Yang Ming , Zhao Jiong , Zhou Xiaoyuan , Dai Ji‐Yan
Published: March 2022

As a promising building block of the emerging neuromorphic computing hardware, memristive structures with multi‐functionalities are highly desired to implement diversified computing applications in a single device. However, the demonstration of such multi‐functional structures remains limited. In this work, an Ag/GeS/Pt‐based bifunctional memory structure with both long‐term and short‐term memristive behaviors is reported, enabling multiple neuromorphic computing applications in a single device. It is found that the unexpected short‐term switching in Ag/GeS/Pt can not only be used to simulate learning/relearning and forgetting behavior but can also be implemented for reservoir computing. While for long‐term switching memristive behavior, its application is demonstrated as the traditional memory. The work reveals a novel coexistence of the two types of resistive switching, shedding light on various neuromorphic computing applications such as reservoir computing and traditional memory realized in a single memristive device.
Mapping and Simultaneous Detection of Arterial and Venous Pulses using Large‐Scale High‐Density Flexible Piezoelectret Sensor Array
Authors: Han Liuyang , Zeng Wei , Dong Ying , Wang Xiaohao , Lin Liwei
Published: March 2022

Flexible sensors with the capability of mapping and examining real‐time physiological signals are essential in smart health monitoring systems. Here, high‐density and large‐scale flexible pressure sensor arrays with the piezoelectric‐like dynamic output effects are presented for the mapping and detection of arterial and venous pulses simultaneously. A high equivalent d33 value of 5400 pC N‐1 is characterized based on the crisscross groove structure of a single sensor unit with a high dynamic sensitivity of 15.22 nA kPa‐1 (<5 kPa), detection limit of <5 Pa, response time of 36 ms, and good temperature‐humidity‐mechanical stabilities. A 3 × 3 prototype array using 4 × 4 mm2 individual sensor units is utilized to plot the pulse magnitude map in the neck region. Experimental results show that this system can differentiate independent and stable arterial and venous pulses simultaneously to acquire the comprehensive cardiac information. Another 5 × 18 prototype array using 1.5 × 0.5 mm2 individual sensor units is demonstrated to detect wrist pulses and map the vascular network successfully toward the practical applications in wearable healthcare and electronic skin systems.
Tuning Morphology of Active Layer by using a Wide Bandgap Oligomer‐Like Donor Enables Organic Solar Cells with Over 18% Efficiency
Authors: Feng Wanying , Wu Simin , Chen Hongbin , Meng Lingxian , Huang Fangfang , Liang Huazhe , Zhang Jianqi , Wei Zhixiang , Wan Xiangjian , Li Chenxi , Yao Zhaoyang , Chen Yongsheng
Published: March 2022

A wide bandgap oligomer‐like donor CNS‐6‐8 is synthesized and incorporated into the host PM6:Y6:PC71BM system to tune the morphology of the active layer for better device performance. Due to the good miscibility of CNS‐6‐8 with both host donor (PM6) and acceptors (Y6 and PC71BM), an optimized morphology is achieved with the appropriate phase separation size and enhanced crystallinity, which ultimately leads to more efficient exciton dissociation, charge transport, and lower nonradiative energy loss. As a result, the quaternary device achieves an improved efficiency of 18.07%, with a simultaneously increased open circuit voltage of 0.868 V, fill factor of 78.8%, and the comparable short‐circuit current density of 26.43 mA cm−2. This work indicates that the favorable 3D interpenetrating network morphology of Y6 containing blend films can be optimized by introducing small amount of a specific molecule with high crystallinity, thus providing an effective strategy to achieve better photovoltaic performance for state‐of‐the‐art Y6 analogs‐based organic solar cells.
Bruck syndrome in 13 new patients: Identification of five novel FKBP10 and PLOD2 variants and further expansion of the phenotypic spectrum
Authors: Otaify Ghada A. , Abdel‐Hamid Mohamed S. , Hassib Nehal F. , Elhossini Rasha M. , Abdel‐Ghafar Sherif F. , Aglan Mona S.
Published: March 2022

Bruck Syndrome (BS) is a very rare disorder characterized by osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) associated with congenital contractures and is caused by mutations in FKBP10 or PLOD2 genes. Herein, we describe 13 patients from 9 unrelated Egyptian families with BS. All patients had white sclerae, recurrent fractures, kyphoscoliosis and osteoporosis with variable degrees of severity. Large joint contractures were seen in 11 patients, one patient had contractures of small interphalangeal joints, and one patient had no contractures. Unusual findings noted in individual patients included microcephaly, dental malocclusion, enamel hypoplasia, unilateral congenital dislocation of knee joint, prominent tailbone, and myopathy. Nine different variants were identified in FKBP10 and PLOD2 including five novel ones. FKBP10 variants were found in six families (67%) while PLOD2 variants were identified in three families (33%). The four families, with two affected sibs each, showed inter‐ and intrafamilial phenotypic variability. In conclusion, we report five novel variants in FKBP10 and PLOD2 thus, expanding the mutational spectrum of BS. In addition, our results expand the phenotypic spectrum, describe newly associated orodental findings, and further illustrate the phenotypic overlap between OI and Bruck syndrome supporting the suggestion of considering BS as a variant of OI rather than a separate entity.
Sleep‐disordered breathing in pediatric neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Bulian Anna , Couloigner Vincent , Belhous Kahina , Luscan Romain , Khirani Sonia , Fauroux Brigitte
Published: March 2022

The relationship between neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB) has not been widely studied. The aim of the study was to analyze SDB in children with NF1 of the respiratory system. All children with NF1 followed between September 2008 and July 2020 who had a respiratory polygraphy (RP) were included. The clinical charts, cerebral and cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and RP were analyzed. Twenty‐two patients (11 girls, median age at RP 8.3 [0.2–18.2] years) were included in the study. Nine patients (41%) had a NF1 involvement of the upper airways, 13 (59%) patients of the central nervous system (CNS), the cranial nerves (CN) and/or medulla, and 17 (77%) patients had a hypertrophy of the adenoids and/or tonsils. Five patients were treated with Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or noninvasive ventilation (NIV) before their first evaluation because of severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Accordingly, 10 (45%) patients had no OSA, one (5%) mild OSA, 2 (9%) moderate OSA, and nine (41%) severe OSA. None of the patients had central sleep apnea. Despite upper airway surgery, three patients required CPAP, two could be weaned and one died after a switch to tracheostomy. None of the patients treated with CPAP/NIV could be weaned, one patient required tracheostomy. Neither the clinical nor the MRI findings were able to predict OSA on a RP. The prevalence of OSA in NF1 is high, regardless of the nature of airway obstruction and the clinical and MRI findings, underlining the value of a systematic RP. CPAP may reduce the need of tracheostomy.
Tf2O‐Mediated Regioselective C(sp2)−H Sulfenylation of Enaminones Using Methyl Sulfoxides as Sulfur Sources
Authors: Zhang Changyuan , Luo Jian , Zhang Jiantao , Chen Lulu , Zhu Xuncheng , Guo Mengping , Shen Chan , Li Zeng , Wang Wei
Published: March 2022

An efficient Tf2O‐mediated regioselective C(sp2)−H sulfenylation of enaminones has been described. Methyl sulfoxides are employed as sulfur sources to react with different types of enaminones under mild reaction conditions, providing a straightforward approach for the synthesis of β‐amino sulfides in up to 97% yield via one‐pot manner. Moreover, this sulfenylation proceeded smoothly with oxidant‐free and metal‐free.
Validation of a preclinical dry eye model in New Zealand white rabbits during and following topical instillation of 1% ophthalmic atropine sulfate
Authors: Sánchez‐Ríos Alejandra , Correa‐Gallegos Elba Yadira , Medina‐Espinoza José Manuel , Navarro‐Sanchez Andrea Anaid , Olvera‐Montaño Oscar , Baiza‐Durán Leopoldo , Muñoz‐Villegas Patricia
Published: March 2022

Background

The objective of this study was to validate an animal model for dry eye during and after the administration of 1% ophthalmic atropine sulfate (OAS) in New Zealand white (NZW) rabbits.

Methods

OAS (1%) was applied three times per day to 30 eyes of 15 healthy NZW rabbits. Sacrifice, enucleation, and lacrimal gland removal took place on days 15, 21, and 30 (OAS group). A second group (n = 5) was used as control. Clinical evaluations took place on days 3, 10, 15, 18, 21, 24 and 30. The primary endpoints were: Schirmer I test, tear break‐up time (TBUT), and corneal fluorescein staining. As secondary endpoints, clinical changes including intraocular pressure, and histopathology were evaluated.

Results

While OAS was administered, the Schirmer I test showed a statistically significant reduction for OAS group versus control (p < 0.001), and versus basal production (p < 0.001). TBUT showed statistically significant differences between groups (days 3 and 10;p = 0.001) and versus basal values (day 3;p < 0.001). Fluorescein staining showed a statistically significant difference (day 3;p = 0.001). The most frequent clinical finding was conjunctival hyperemia (76.9% OAS vs. 20% control). For histopathology, all OAS subjects presented some degree of inflammation (86.7% minimal; 13.3% mild) whereas the control presented only 30% minimal inflammation. Goblet cell density showed no difference.

Conclusions

The effectiveness of the OAS dry eye model in NZW rabbits as reported in previous studies was confirmed, provided that the application of the drug is maintained throughout the intervention; it is not a viable model after OAS administration is suspended.
Asymmetric Intramolecular Hydroalkoxylation of 2‐Vinylbenzyl Alcohols with Chiral Boro‐Phosphates
Authors: Han Caifang , Meng Wei , Feng Xiangqing , Du Haifeng
Published: March 2022

Asymmetric intramolecular hydroalkoxylation of alkenes represents a very important approach to access optically active cyclic ethers. It was found that B(C6F5)3 could catalyze the cyclization of 2‐vinylbenzyl alcohols with only 0.05 mol % catalyst loading, affording the desired product in high yields. To accomplish the asymmetric reaction, a novel type of chiral boro‐phosphates was developed by treating chiral phosphoric acid with Piers’ borane, in which the oxygen atom of P=O and the boron atom act as Lewis base and acid centers, respectively. A highly enantioselective hydroalkoxylation was successfully realized to give optically active 1,3‐dihydroisobenzofuran derivatives in 78–99 % yields with 60–97 % ee's, in which an activation of O−H bond of alcohols by the boro‐phosphate species is hypothesized.
Visualizing Proteins in Mammalian Cells by 19F NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhu Wenkai , Guseman Alex J. , Bhinderwala Fatema , Lu Manman , Su Xun‐Cheng , Gronenborn Angela M.
Published: March 2022

In‐cell NMR spectroscopy is a powerful tool to investigate protein behavior in physiologically relevant environments. Although proven valuable for disordered proteins, we show that in commonly used 1H‐15N HSQC spectra of globular proteins, interactions with cellular components often broaden resonances beyond detection. This contrasts 19F spectra in mammalian cells, in which signals are readily observed. Using several proteins, we demonstrate that surface charges and interaction with cellular binding partners modulate linewidths and resonance frequencies. Importantly, we establish that 19F paramagnetic relaxation enhancements using stable, rigid Ln(III) chelate pendants, attached via non‐reducible thioether bonds, provide an effective means to obtain accurate distances for assessing protein conformations in the cellular milieu.
Micromechanically‐Powered Rolling Locomotion of a Twisted‐Crystal Optical‐Waveguide Cavity as a Mobile Light Polarization Rotor
Authors: Rohullah Mehdi , Pradeep Vuppu Vinay , Ravi Jada , Kumar Avulu Vinod , Chandrasekar Rajadurai
Published: March 2022

We demonstrate mechanically‐powered rolling locomotion of a twisted‐microcrystal optical‐waveguide cavity on the substrate, rotating the output signal's linear‐polarization. Self‐assembly of (E)‐2‐bromo‐6‐(((4‐methoxyphenyl)imino)methyl)‐4‐nitrophenol produces naturally twisted microcrystals. The strain between several intergrowing, orientationally mismatched nanocrystalline fibres dictates the pitch lengths of the twisted crystals. The crystals are flexible, perpendicular to twisted (001) and (010) planes due to π⋅⋅⋅π stacking, C−H⋅⋅⋅Br, N−H⋅⋅⋅O and C−H⋅⋅⋅O interactions. The twisted crystals in their straight and bent geometries guide fluorescence along their body axes and display optical modes. Depending upon the degree of mechanical rolling locomotion, the crystal‐waveguide cavity correspondingly rotates the output signal polarization. The presented twisted‐crystal cavity with a combination of mechanical locomotion and photonic attributes unfolds a new dimension in mechanophotonics.
Recent developments of layered transition metal oxide cathodes for sodium‐ion batteries toward desired high performance
Authors: Li Siqing , Sun Yuanyuan , Pang Yuepeng , Xia Shuixin , Chen Taiqiang , Sun Hao , Zheng Shiyou , Yuan Tao
Published: March 2022

With the development of society, sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) attract more and more attention and are expected to be the next generation of daily energy storage devices. Among the previously reported cathode materials for SIBs, the layered transition metal oxides are considered to be the most competitive cathode materials due to their high specific capacities, simple synthesis process, and many similar advantages to the successful Li transition metal oxides in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). This review summarizes the recent progress of layered transition metal oxide cathode materials for SIBs, which mainly include Mn‐based, Ni/Mn‐based, Ni/Co/Mn‐based, and Ni/Fe/Mn‐based layered cathode materials. The remaining challenges and future developments for the layered transition metal oxide cathode materials are also discussed. This review is expected to provide some insights into the development of layered transition metal oxide cathodes for high‐performance SIBs.
Saagar Manthan (The churning of the great ocean)—How I came to understand psychoanalysis through Hindu mythology
Authors: Agrawal Himanshu
Published: March 2022

Much has been written in psychoanalytic literature about the many gods and mortals of Greek mythology, however, a search on PEPWEB with the keywords ‘Hindu mythology’ revealed scant results. The fact that, barring some exceptions that may shed light on the original Oedipus, Ganesha (Kakar, 2005; Tang & Smith, 1996) a culture which acknowledges 33 million gods and uncountable parables has generally gone untapped for its psychological sap probably serves as a reminder that psychoanalysis has been mainly a westerner's craft. With this essay I intend to share thoughts that have emerged during my own analysis, memories from childhood, and reveries in adulthood. I intend to share how my thoughts about Hindu mythology have helped me understand how the complex process of psychoanalysis might work.
Voluntary fishing logbooks are essential for unveiling unsustainable bycatch levels and appropriate mitigating measures: The case of sea turtles in the Gulf of Manfredonia, Adriatic Sea
Authors: Baldi Giulia , Salvemini Pasquale , Attanasio Anna Pia , Mastrapasqua Teresa , Pepe Anna Maria , Ceriani Simona A. , Oliverio Marco , Casale Paolo
Published: March 2022

Studying the impact of bycatch on marine megafauna, including sea turtles, is challenging for a variety of technical and biological reasons. The Mediterranean Sea has among the highest levels of turtle bycatch globally, notably of the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), and bottom trawling represents a particularly relevant threat.

Bottom trawlers from a recently discovered neritic foraging area, the Gulf of Manfredonia, reported 1,152 loggerhead turtles incidentally caught in the period 2015–2020. Capture locations were available for 497 turtles. These data were complemented by the distribution of fishing effort obtained by the vessel monitoring system.

High bycatch rates were observed, leading to more than an estimated 5,600 annual captures and to the death of a minimum of 560 large individuals with high reproductive value. These findings are extremely concerning for the affected population and require immediate action. A strong seasonality of turtle bycatch was observed, with most captures occurring in November–March when fishing effort occurs in shallow waters where turtles concentrate all year round.

Therefore, a seasonal approach (e.g. adopting measures only in the high‐turtle bycatch season) can be pursued as long as the spatial distribution of fishing effort varies among seasons. However, such a spatio‐temporal pattern should be monitored; then, in the case of change, although more difficult to implement, an area‐based conservation approach should be pursued. Several recommendations are provided, including the urgent implementation of turtle excluder devices, at least on a seasonal basis.

This case shows that identifying the best conservation approaches requires information on the actual spatio‐temporal pattern of turtle occurrence and bycatch. Such information can only be derived from spatial distribution of bycatch and fishing effort obtained through a voluntary collaboration of fishers.
Quality evaluation of different varieties of rhubarb based on multicomponents and bioactivity: Application to quality control in the production of rhubarb decoction pieces
Authors: Liang Wei , Weimei Zhang , Chen Yuan , Sun Jiachen , Guo Fengxia , Hu Jing , Gao Wenyuan , Li Xia
Published: March 2022

In this work, we developed a novel HPLC method for the simultaneous determination of 16 bioactive components in rhubarb and used it to determine the contents. Through the determination of bioactive components and in vitro activity, we compared the differences between 18 batches of different varieties of rhubarb. The contents of 16 bioactive components in Rheum officinale Baill., Rheum tanguticum Maxim. ex Balf., and Rheum palmatum Linn. were 57.53–76.09, 98.88–130.61 and 36.18–48.66 mg/g, respectively. The average inhibition rates of alkaline phosphatase in R. tanguticum were the highest, reaching 79.53%. The average inhibition rates of thrombin and Na+/K+‐ATPase in R. palmatum were the highest, reaching 80.93 and 62.42%, respectively. These results showed that there were significant differences in effective components and biological activities among different varieties of rhubarb. Through chemometric analysis, we preliminarily compared the differences in chemical composition of different varieties of rhubarb, and established a Fisher discriminant function which could accurately distinguish different varieties of rhubarb. Through correlation analysis and molecular docking, three potential components as quality markers of rhubarb were identified. The obtained results provide a comprehensive strategy for the quality control of multisource Chinese medicine and related products.
Flourishing in head and neck cancer survivors
Authors: Harris Alexandria , Li Jinhong , Atchison Karley , Harrison Christine , Hall Daniel , VanderWeele Tyler , Johnson Jonas T. , Nilsen Marci L.
Published: March 2022

Background

There is a growing cohort of head and neck cancer (HNC) patients affected by late‐ and long‐term posttreatment side effects. Our study evaluates the relationship between the demographics, clinical characteristics, and posttreatment symptom burden with the subjective sense of flourishing among HNC survivors.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, single‐center study of adult survivors of squamous cell cancer of the oral cavity, oropharynx, and larynx/hypopharynx who completed the Secure Flourishing Index (SFI) and patient‐reported outcomes related to depression, anxiety, swallowing dysfunction, neck disability, and insomnia between November 2020 and April 2021.

Results

A total of 100, predominantly male (86%), survivors with an average age of 63.0 ± 9.6 were included in the study. Univariable analysis showed a significant association between higher flourishing scores and advanced age (95% CI: [0.011, 0.84], p = 0.0441), normal diet (95% CI: [5.79, 31.18], p = 0.0149), employment (95% CI: [1.24, 17.20], p = 0.0239), higher income (95% CI: [7.30, 27.72], p = 0.0248), and decreased reported difficulty paying for needs (95% CI: [−33.46, −18.88], p < 0.001). Flourishing was inversely associated with higher symptoms of depression (95% CI: [−2.23, −1.15], p < 0.001), anxiety (95% CI: [−1.92,‐0.86], p < 0.001), swallowing dysfunction (95% CI: [−0.77, −0.26], p < 0.001), neck disability (95% CI: [−1.05, −0.35], p < 0.001), and insomnia (95% CI: [−1.12, −0.22], p = 0.004) in the multivariable analysis.

Conclusions

Common late‐ and long‐term side effects of HNC treatment and financial hardship are associated with lower levels of flourishing or a more negative perception of life after treatment. Results highlight the importance of symptom burden for survivors' overall evaluation of their quality of life.
Relapse in patients with limited‐stage ocular adnexal lymphoma treated by chemoimmunotherapy: Extended follow‐up of a phase 2 study
Authors: Kim Sung‐Yong , Lee Won‐Sik , Oh Sung Yong , Yang Deok‐Hwan , Kim Hyo Jung , Park Seong Kyu , Yang Jae Wook , Yang Suk‐Woo , Cho Seok‐Goo
Published: March 2022

Background

Approximately 50% of limited‐stage ocular adnexal mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma (OAML) patients with adverse prognostic factors relapse after radiotherapy. Chemoimmunotherapy has been proposed as an alternative frontline therapy. However, only a few studies have reported its long‐term treatment outcome.

Methods

In 2011, we commenced a phase 2 trial to investigate the efficacy of rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisolone (R‐CVP) in bilateral and non‐conjunctival limited‐stage OAML patients. Results of the clinical trial showed a response rate of 100% and a 4‐year progression‐free survival of 90.3% without significant toxicity. We extended the study period to December 2020 to determine the long‐term efficacy of R‐CVP chemoimmunotherapy.

Results

At a median observation period of 66.0 months, eight of 33 study patients had relapsed. The cumulative incidence of relapse was 18.9% at 5 years and 44.7% at 8 years. The majority of relapses developed more than 4 years after treatment. Local relapse was more prevalent than distant relapse. The relapse risk of orbital and lacrimal diseases was likely to be higher than that of conjunctival and eyelid diseases (HR: 2.5, 95% CI: 0.498–12.500, p = 0.25).

Conclusion

Although the response rate was remarkable for chemoimmunotherapy, the risk of late relapse was considerable. Based on our findings, clinical trials for limited‐stage OAML patients should have a long‐term observation period. To minimize radiation toxicity and reduce the risk of delayed relapse (local relapse and distant relapse), a future study with sequential or combination treatment of local low‐dose radiation and systemic chemoimmunotherapy can be considered.
Adjuvant radiotherapy shows benefit in selected stage I uterine sarcoma: A risk scoring system based on a population analysis
Authors: Huang Yun‐xia , Lin Yan‐zong , Li Yi‐min , Chu Ke‐xin , Zhou Yu‐fei , Lin Li‐mei , Zhou Rui , Zhang Zong‐kai , Lin Qin
Published: March 2022

Background

The potential therapeutic benefit of adjuvant radiotherapy for patients with stage I uterine sarcoma has not been clear. In this study, we aimed to develop a risk scoring model to select the subgroup of patients with stage I uterine sarcoma who might benefit from adjuvant radiotherapy.

Methods

Patients with stage I uterine sarcoma from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program from 2010 to 2014 were retrospectively included in this analysis. Cox proportional hazards models were performed to identify risk factors.

Results

A total of 947 stage I uterine sarcoma patients were included. The 5‐year disease‐specific survival (DSS) of the overall cohort was 75.81%. Multivariate analysis identified stage (p = 0.013), tumor grade (p <0.001) and histology (p = 0.043) as independent prognostic factors for DSS, and these factors were used to generate the risk scoring model. The low‐risk group presented a better DSS than the high‐risk group (95.51% vs. 49.88%, p < 0.001). The addition of radiotherapy to surgery significantly increased the DSS in the high‐risk group compared with surgery alone (78.06% vs. 46.88%, p = 0.022), but no significant survival benefit was observed in the low‐risk group (98.36% vs. 100%, p = 0.766).

Conclusions

Our risk scoring model based on stage, tumor grade, and histology predicted the outcome of patients with stage I uterine sarcoma cancer. This system may help to select stage I uterine sarcoma cancer patients who might benefit from adjuvant radiotherapy.
Idiopathic red ear syndrome: A rare case report
Authors: Sigdel Brihaspati , Pokhrel Amrit
Published: March 2022

Red ear syndrome (RES) is a very rare disorder that is characterized by a unilateral or bilateral attack of paroxysmal burning sensation and reddening of the external ear. The duration of symptoms ranges from a few seconds to hours. It can occur spontaneously or be triggered by rubbing of the ear, heat or cold stimulation, brushing of hair, and neck movement. Diagnosis and treatment of this condition are challenging. The pathophysiology of RES is still unclear and hypotheses involving peripheral or central nervous system mechanisms have been proposed. RES is regarded as refractory to medical treatments, although some migraine preventative treatments have shown moderate benefit mainly in patients with migraine‐related attacks. We report a case with Idiopathic RES who presented with paroxysmal redness of the bilateral pinnae partially benefitted by medical treatment.
Kinase Sensing Based on Protein Interactions at the Catalytic Site
Authors: Solomon Ohad , Sapir Hannah , Mervinetsky Evgeniy , Chen Yu‐Ju , Friedler Assaf , Yitzchaik Shlomo
Published: March 2022

Invited for the cover of this issue is Assaf Friedler, Shlomo Yitzchaik and co‐workers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the Academia Sinica. The image depicts a new approach for electrochemical kinase sensing that does not rely on phosphorylation. The kinase binds a peptide layer, which undergoes rearrangement, resulting in the permeation of redox‐active species through the layer and electrochemical sensing. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202104227.
The Decisive Role of Spin States and Spin Coupling in Dictating Selective O2 Adsorption in Chromium(II) Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Jose Reshma , Kancharlapalli Srinivasu , Ghanty Tapan K. , Pal Sourav , Rajaraman Gopalan
Published: March 2022

Invited for the cover of this issue are Sourav Pal, Gopalan Rajaraman and co‐workers at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research. The image depicts how a mixture of atmospheric gases such as CO2, H2, N2 and O2 can be selectively separated using a Cr metal‐organic framework where spin state and spin coupling play a crucial role. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202104526.
Reaction Optimization of a Suzuki‐Miyaura Cross‐Coupling Using Design of Experiments
Authors: Bobers Jens , Hahn Lisa Katharina , Averbeck Tobias , Brunschweiger Andreas , Kockmann Norbert
Published: March 2022

The combination of lab automation and design of experiments for the execution of screening experiments increases productivity and reduces error‐prone manual work. A self‐developed software tool allows for creating fractional‐factorial experimental design (FFED). Application of FFED on the screening of a Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling leads to a 93 % reduced design compared to full‐factorial design. The resulting regression model qualitatively shows the positive effect of educt concentrations, time, and temperature and reveals the decrease in conversion at high base concentrations.
Available and affordable complementary treatments for COVID‐19: From hypothesis to pilot studies and the need for implementation
Authors: Bousquet Jean , Haahtela Tari , Blain Hubert , Czarlewski Wienczyslawa , Zuberbier Torsten , Bedbrook Anna , Cruz Alvaro A. , Fonseca Joao A. , Klimek Ludger , Kuna Piotr , Samolinski Boleslaw , Valiulis Arunas , Lemaire Antoine , Anto Josep M.
Published: March 2022

Vaccination is a highly effective preventive measure against COVID‐19. However, complementary treatments are needed to better control the disease. Fermented vegetables and spices, agonists of the antioxidant transcription factor nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2 (Nrf2) and TRPA1/V1 channels (Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin 1 and Vanillin 1), may help in the control of COVID‐19. Some preliminary clinical trials suggest that curcumin (spice) can prevent some of the COVID‐19 symptoms. Before any conclusion can be drawn and these treatments recommended for COVID‐19, the data warrant confirmation. In particular, the benefits of the foods need to be assessed in more patients, through research studies and large trials employing a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled design.
Pharmacokinetics of Subcutaneous Dupilumab Injection With an Autoinjector Device or Prefilled Syringe
Authors: Cohen Yehuda Z. , Zhang Xiaojia , Xia Binfeng , Kosloski Matthew P. , Kamal Mohamed A. , Davis John D. , Kanamaluru Vanaja , Xu Christine
Published: March 2022

Dupilumab, a human monoclonal antibody against interleukin‐4 receptor alpha, has demonstrated efficacy and an acceptable safety profile in adult and pediatric patients with moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis (AD) and other type 2 inflammatory diseases. Dupilumab is available in 200‐ and 300‐mg strengths as a prefilled syringe with a needle shield (PFS‐S), and more recently as an autoinjector (AI) device. This study was designed to assess the pharmacokinetic (PK) comparability of a single subcutaneous (SC) dose of dupilumab 200 mg, delivered by 2 different devices, AI (test) versus PFS‐S (reference). A total of 130 healthy male and female participants were enrolled in this phase 1 parallel design study, with 128 evaluable for PK. Following dupilumab 200‐mg SC injection, dupilumab exposure in serum was similar for both AI and PFS‐S. The geometric mean ratios of PK parameters with 90% confidence intervals were 1.08 (0.97‐1.21) for maximum serum concentration (Cmax) and 1.11 (0.96‐1.28) for area under the serum concentration–time curve until the last quantifiable concentration (AUClast). Dupilumab administration by both devices was well tolerated, and there were no serious adverse events, or severe treatment‐emergent adverse events experienced during the study. Overall, exposure to dupilumab 200 mg was comparable when administered via the AI or PFS‐S devices in healthy male and female study participants.