bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expanding the phenotypic spectrum of BCS1L‐related mitochondrial disease
Authors: Hikmat Omar , Isohanni Pirjo , Keshavan Nandaki , Ferla Matteo P. , Fassone Elisa , Abbott Mary‐Alice , Bellusci Marcello , Darin Niklas , Dimmock David , Ghezzi Daniele , Houlden Henry , Invernizzi Federica , Kamarus Jaman Nazreen B. , Kurian Manju A. , Morava Eva , Naess Karin , Ortigoza‐Escobar Juan Darío , Parikh Sumit , Pennisi Alessandra , Barcia Giulia , Tylleskär Karin B. , Brackman Damien , Wortmann Saskia B. , Taylor Jenny C. , Bindoff Laurence A. , Fellman Vineta , Rahman Shamima
Published: October 2021

Objective

To delineate the full phenotypic spectrum of BCS1L‐related disease, provide better understanding of the genotype–phenotype correlations and identify reliable prognostic disease markers.

Methods

We performed a retrospective multinational cohort study of previously unpublished patients followed in 15 centres from 10 countries. Patients with confirmed biallelic pathogenic BCS1L variants were considered eligible. Clinical, laboratory, neuroimaging and genetic data were analysed. Patients were stratified into different groups based on the age of disease onset, whether homozygous or compound heterozygous for the c.232A>G (p.Ser78Gly) variant, and those with other pathogenic BCS1L variants.

Results

Thirty‐three patients were included. We found that growth failure, lactic acidosis, tubulopathy, hepatopathy and early death were more frequent in those with disease onset within the first month of life. In those with onset after 1 month, neurological features including movement disorders and seizures were more frequent. Novel phenotypes, particularly involving movement disorder, were identified in this group. The presence of the c.232A>G (p.Ser78Gly) variant was associated with significantly worse survival and exclusively found in those with disease onset within the first month of life, whilst other pathogenic BCS1L variants were more frequent in those with later symptom onset.

Interpretation

The phenotypic spectrum of BCS1L‐related disease comprises a continuum of clinical features rather than a set of separate syndromic clinical identities. Age of onset defines BCS1L‐related disease clinically and early presentation is associated with poor prognosis. Genotype correlates with phenotype in the presence of the c.232A>G (p.Ser78Gly) variant.
Spiral Metalens for Phase Contrast Imaging
Authors: Kim Youngjin , Lee Gun‐Yeal , Sung Jangwoon , Jang Junhyeok , Lee Byoungho
Published: October 2021

Spiral phase contrast imaging offers an excellent opportunity to observe non‐labeled biological samples with slight variations in refractive index or thickness. However, the overall system covering previous works is still complex and bulky, hindering miniaturization and compatibility with conventional systems. Furthermore, high‐resolution imaging, particularly for observing biological specimens such as cellular structures, requires several refractive optical elements like objectives and relay optics which dramatically increases the system form factor. Here, it is demonstrated that a metalens, in which the phase profile is a sum of the hyperbolic phase and spiral phase with a topological charge of 1, performs 2D isotropic edge‐enhanced imaging. The metalens achieves a submicrometer resolution of up to 0.78 µm operated under visible broadband range in conjunction with a compact form factor. Furthermore, experiments with biological samples can additionally prove the feasibility of practical usage. Capitalizing on compactness and high‐resolution characteristics, it is believed that the scheme provides a stepping stone to biomedical imaging technologies and analog computing.
PtCo@PtSn Heterojunction with High Stability/Activity for pH‐Universal H2 Evolution
Authors: Chen Jinli , Qian Guangfu , Zhang Hao , Feng Shouquan , Mo Yanshan , Luo Lin , Yin Shibin
Published: October 2021

Developing highly efficient Pt‐based catalysts through interface engineering is significant for hydrogen production by water electrolysis working at pH‐universal conditions but still challenging. Herein, a PtCo@PtSn heterojunction with good hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance in pH‐universal electrolytes is designed and prepared by combining the advantages of a Pt‐based bimetallic alloy and heterojunction. Density functional theory simulations illustrate that the surface electronic structure of Pt is optimized by interface engineering to effectively improve the ability of water dissociation and decrease the PtH bond strength for obtaining the suitable H* Gibbs free energy (∆GH*). It shows low HER overpotentials in 1.0 m KOH (η−10 = 25 mV), 1.0 m phosphate‐buffered saline (η−10 = 18 mV), and 0.5 m H2SO4 (η−10 = 21 mV) solutions, respectively, and it can steadily work for 100 000 (100k) cycles by cyclic voltammetry method. Thus, this work provides a novel strategy to design Pt‐based hydrogen evolution catalyst with robust catalytic performance.
Emergent Enhanced Electrocaloric Effect within Wide Temperature Span in Laminated Composite Ceramics
Authors: Yin Ruowei , Li Junjie , Su Xiaopo , Qin Shiqiang , Yu Chengye , Hou Yuxuan , Liu Chuanbao , Su Yanjing , Qiao Lijie , Lookman Turab , Bai Yang
Published: October 2021

An outstanding challenge for high‐efficient and zero‐emissions ferroelectric refrigeration is to maintain a large adiabatic temperature change (ΔT) over a wide temperature span (Tspan) resulting from the electrocaloric effect (ECE). A multilayer ferroelectric structure with interlayer synergistic phase transitions as a means to address this problem is proposed. BaTi0.89Sn0.11O3, BaTi0.85Zr0.15O3, and BaTi0.89Hf0.11O3 were selected as the components of each layer, the compositions of which are fixed at the tricritical point (TP) in each system and where the transition temperatures increase sequentially. Ferroelectrics near TP have a high sensitivity to external fields and the good co‐firing adhesion leads to strong electrical and stress interface coupling between adjacent layers. The electric‐field‐induced phase transition in one layer then synergistically induces a phase transition in the near interface part of the adjacent layer, which is close to but is not at the transition point yet. As a result, the enhanced ECE performance, including both a large ΔTmax = 0.63 K and a wide Tspan = 57 °C (ΔT ≥ 80% ΔTmax), exceeds that associated with the sum of the individual components. An efficient composite materials design strategy to develop high‐performance electrocaloric materials with excellent ECE properties for practical refrigeration applications is thus proposed.
Surface Reconstruction for Stable Monolithic All‐Inorganic Perovskite/Organic Tandem Solar Cells with over 21% Efficiency
Authors: Chen Weijie , Li Dong , Chen Xu , Chen Haiyang , Liu Shuo , Yang Haidi , Li Xinqi , Shen Yunxiu , Ou Xuemei , Yang Yang (Michael) , Jiang Lin , Li Yaowen , Li Yongfang
Published: October 2021

The construction of monolithic two‐terminal tandem solar cells (2T TSCs) offers the possibility of pursuing high power conversion efficiency (PCE) by overcoming the single‐junction Shockley–Queisser limit in photovoltaics. However, little attention is paid to simultaneously improve the stability by utilizing the complementary properties of various photoactive layers. Here, beyond the stacked photoactive layers featuring complementary absorption, all‐inorganic perovskite (CsPbI1.8Br1.2) is chosen as the photoactive layer of the front wide‐bandgap subcell for its intrinsic high thermal stability and ultraviolet (UV)‐filtering function to address the burn‐in and UV degradation of organic rear subcells. To realize their monolithic integration, the charge recombination efficiency in the interconnecting layer (ICL) between the two types of subcells is tentatively improved by surface reconstruction of all‐inorganic perovskite using trimethylammonium chloride. The repaired CsPbI1.8Br1.2 surface enables effective suppression of nonradiative recombination and facilitates hole transport, providing efficient charge recombination in the ICL in the 2T TSC. As a result, the all‐inorganic perovskite/organic 2T TSC delivers a promising PCE of 21.04%, accompanied by an ultrahigh open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 2.05 V, which is nearly equal to the superposition of the respective Voc values of the subcells. More importantly, the 2T TSC simultaneously shows outstanding operational and UV stabilities.
Implanting a Fire‐Extinguishing Alkyl in Sodium Metal Battery Electrolytes via a Functional Molecule
Authors: Liu Xuyang , Zheng Xueying , Deng Ya , Qin Xiao , Huang Ying , Dai Yiming , Wu Wangyan , Wang Zhongqiang , Luo Wei
Published: October 2021

Room‐temperature sodium metal batteries (SMBs) have gained tremendous interest owing to the cost‐efficiency and wide geographical availability of sodium, whereas severe safety issues have long handicapped their practical applications. Here a fire‐extinguishant‐implanted electrolyte (FEIE) is demonstrated where a nonpolar fluoroether simultaneously bonds the fluorinated carbonate‐based electrolyte and a sodium‐compatible extinguishant via its amphiphilicity. The as‐designed FEIE enables intrinsic safety and eliminates fire hazards. Furthermore, the FEIE‐induced inorganic‐enriched solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) dramatically improves the Na deposition, Coulombic efficiency (CE), and further offers the cycling stability for 1100 h at 10 mAh cm−2 in symmetric cells and 1000 cycles with a high average CE (99.8%) in full cells. Usage of the functional molecules possessing amphiphilicity extends the scope for applying immiscible agents in battery electrolytes.
Recent Advances in Hypoxia‐Overcoming Strategy of Aggregation‐Induced Emission Photosensitizers for Efficient Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Chen Huan , Wan Yingpeng , Cui Xiao , Li Shengliang , Lee Chun‐Sing
Published: October 2021

Hypoxia is an inherent physiologic barrier in the microenvironment of solid tumor and has badly restricted the therapeutic effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT). Meanwhile, the photosensitizer (PS) agents used for PDT applications regularly encounter the tiresome aggregation‐caused quenching effect that seriously decreases the production efficiency of cytotoxic reactive oxygen species. The aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) PSs with antiquenching characteristics in the aggregate state are considered as a promising tool for achieving highly efficient PDT applications, and plenty of studies have widely demonstrated their advantages in various diseases. Herein, the recent progress of AIE PSs in the battle of antitumor hypoxia issue is summarized and the practical molecular principles of hypoxia‐overcoming AIE PSs are highlighted. According to the hypoxia‐overcoming mechanism, these representative cases are divided into low O2‐dependent (type I PDT) and O2‐dependent tactics (mainly including O2‐enrichment type II PDT and combination therapy). Furthermore, the underlying challenges and prospects of AIE PSs in hypoxia‐overcoming PDT are proposed and thus expect to promote the next development of AIE PSs.
Recent Advances in Fluorinated Graphene from Synthesis to Applications: Critical Review on Functional Chemistry and Structure Engineering
Authors: Chen Xinyu , Fan Kun , Liu Yang , Li Yu , Liu Xiangyang , Feng Wei , Wang Xu
Published: October 2021

Fluorinated graphene (FG), as an emerging member of the graphene derivatives family, has attracted wide attention on account of its excellent performances and underlying applications. The introduction of a fluorine atom, with the strongest electronegativity (3.98), greatly changes the electron distribution of graphene, resulting in a series of unique variations in optical, electronic, magnetic, interfacial properties and so on. Herein, recent advances in the study of FG from synthesis to applications are introduced, and the relationship between its structure and properties is summarized in detail. Especially, the functional chemistry of FG has been thoroughly analyzed in recent years, which has opened a universal route for the functionalization and even multifunctionalization of FG toward various graphene derivatives, which further broadens its applications. Moreover, from a particular angle, the structure engineering of FG such as the distribution pattern of fluorine atoms and the regulation of interlayer structure when advanced nanotechnology gets involved is summarized. Notably, the elaborated structure engineering of FG is the key factor to optimize the corresponding properties for potential applications, and is also an up‐to‐date research hotspot and future development direction. Finally, perspectives and prospects for the problems and challenges in the study of FG are put forward.
Nanotechnology Enables Novel Modalities for Neuromodulation
Authors: Yang Xiao , McGlynn Eve , Das Rupam , Paşca Sergiu P. , Cui Bianxiao , Heidari Hadi
Published: October 2021

Neuromodulation is of great importance both as a fundamental neuroscience research tool for analyzing and understanding the brain function, and as a therapeutic avenue for treating brain disorders. Here, an overview of conceptual and technical progress in developing neuromodulation strategies is provided, and it is suggested that recent advances in nanotechnology are enabling novel neuromodulation modalities with less invasiveness, improved biointerfaces, deeper penetration, and higher spatiotemporal precision. The use of nanotechnology and the employment of versatile nanomaterials and nanoscale devices with tailored physical properties have led to considerable research progress. To conclude, an outlook discussing current challenges and future directions for next‐generation neuromodulation modalities is presented.
Self‐Complementary Zwitterionic Peptides Direct Nanoparticle Assembly and Enable Enzymatic Selection of Endocytic Pathways
Authors: Huang Richard H. , Nayeem Nazia , He Ye , Morales Jorge , Graham Duncan , Klajn Rafal , Contel Maria , O'Brien Stephen , Ulijn Rein V.
Published: October 2021

Supramolecular self‐assembly in biological systems holds promise to convert and amplify disease‐specific signals to physical or mechanical signals that can direct cell fate. However, it remains challenging to design physiologically stable self‐assembling systems that demonstrate tunable and predictable behavior. Here, the use of zwitterionic tetrapeptide modalities to direct nanoparticle assembly under physiological conditions is reported. The self‐assembly of gold nanoparticles can be activated by enzymatic unveiling of surface‐bound zwitterionic tetrapeptides through matrix metalloprotease‐9 (MMP‐9), which is overexpressed by cancer cells. This robust nanoparticle assembly is achieved by multivalent, self‐complementary interactions of the zwitterionic tetrapeptides. In cancer cells that overexpress MMP‐9, the nanoparticle assembly process occurs near the cell membrane and causes size‐induced selection of cellular uptake mechanism, resulting in diminished cell growth. The enzyme responsiveness, and therefore, indirectly, the uptake route of the system can be programmed by customizing the peptide sequence: a simple inversion of the two amino acids at the cleavage site completely inactivates the enzyme responsiveness, self‐assembly, and consequently changes the endocytic pathway. This robust self‐complementary, zwitterionic peptide design demonstrates the use of enzyme‐activated electrostatic side‐chain patterns as powerful and customizable peptide modalities to program nanoparticle self‐assembly and alter cellular response in biological context.
Electron and Ion Co‐Conductive Catalyst Achieving Instant Transformation of Lithium Polysulfide towards Li2S
Authors: Hao Xiaoge , Ma Jiabin , Cheng Xing , Zhong GuiMing , Yang Jin‐Lin , Huang Ling , Ling Huajin , Lai Chen , Lv Wei , Kang Feiyu , Sun Xueliang , He Yan‐Bing
Published: October 2021

Most of the catalysts in lithium sulfur (Li–S) batteries present low electronic conductivity and the lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) must diffuse onto the surface of the carbon materials to achieve their conversion reaction. It is a significant challenge to achieve the instantaneous transformation of LiPSs to Li2S in Li–S batteries to suppress the shuttle effect of LiPSs. Herein, a unique electron and ion co‐conductive catalyst of carbon‐coated Li1.4Al0.4Ti1.6(PO4)3 (C@LATP) is developed, which not only possesses strong adsorption to LiPSs, but, more importantly, also promotes the instantaneous conversion reaction of LiPSs to Li2S. The C@LATP nanoparticles as catalytic active sites can synchronously and efficiently provide both Li ions and electrons to facilitate the conversion reaction of LiPSs. The conversion reaction path of LiPSs using C@LATP changes from traditional “adsorption–diffusion–conversion” to novel “adsorption–conversion,” which effectively lowers the decomposition barrier of Li2S6 and promotes faster conversion of LiPSs. The shuttle effect of LiPSs is considerably suppressed and utilization of sulfur is greatly improved. The Li–S batteries using C@LATP present excellent rate, cycling, and self‐discharge properties. This work highlights the significance of electron and ion co‐conductive solid‐state electrolytes for the instantaneous transformation of LiPSs in advanced Li–S batteries.
Layer‐by‐Layer Alignment of Silver Nanowires for Transparent and Flexible Energy‐Saving Windows
Authors: Hu Hebing , Wang Shancheng , Meng Yun , Liu Guowei , Li Ming , Vu Tuan Duc , Long Yi
Published: October 2021

The energy consumption in buildings through the thermal radiation of windows has become a big challenge in modern life. The low mid‐infrared emissivity (εMIR) and near‐infrared blocking windows with high visible transmittance (Tvis) are highly required in modern energy‐saving buildings, while most existing low εMIR windows are severely limited by their complex and high‐cost processing conditions and could not be retrofitted to existing windows. Herein low εMIR foils based on aligned silver nanowires (AgNWs) fabricated via an economical solution process are reported with good energy‐saving performance. The foils with aligned AgNWs give lower εMIR and higher Tvis compared with randomly oriented AgNWs foils. The low‐cost process, high Tvis, low εMIR, and flexibility to apply on any surface opens a new avenue to cut down energy consumption in existing windows.
Energy Transfer Mediated Enhancement of Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence of Carbon Dots Embedded in Matrixes
Authors: Zhou Zhishan , Song Zhijian , Liu Jinkun , Lei Bingfu , Zhuang Jianle , Zhang Xuejie , Liu Yingliang , Hu Chaofan
Published: October 2021

Energy transfer (EnT) is a commonly used study method in the research of organic luminescent materials, but rarely reported in carbon dots (CDs) related work. In this work, an efficient EnT mediated method for enhancing room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) of CDs through embedding pure phosphorescent CDs into afterglow matrixes is brought up for the first time. In such design system, the emission intensity, phosphorescence lifetime, and emission time of CDs are prolonged significantly, and all the CD‐based materials emit more than 20 s phosphorescence visible to eye after the ultraviolet excitation. The overlap between the phosphorescence excitation spectra of CDs and the afterglow emission spectra of afterglow matrixes reveal the possibility of the EnT from matrixes to CDs, and the phosphorescence emission and lifetimes spectra of CDs, matrixes, and CDs@matrix further verify the presence of EnT process. Besides, phosphorescent CDs embedded in nonafterglow emission matrixes are also synthesized for analysis and comparison. To employ the outstanding characteristics of the compound of pure phosphorescent CDs and afterglow matrix, advanced information encryption/decryption and rapid fingerprint detection applications are designed. This EnT medicated enhancing RTP strategy provides a new design route to construct the CD‐based material with long phosphorescence emission and high emission intensity.
Janus Emulsion Solar Concentrators as Photocatalytic Droplet Microreactors
Authors: Simón Marqués Pablo , Frank Bradley D. , Savateev Aleksandr , Zeininger Lukas
Published: October 2021

Efficiently harvesting and conveying photons to photocatalytic reaction centers is one of the great obstacles in photocatalysis. To address this challenge, a new approach is reported that is based on employing biphasic complex emulsions as droplet‐based solar concentrators. Specifically, substrates and photocatalysts are compartmentalized into the confined space of Janus emulsion droplets comprised of a hydrocarbon partially encapsulated inside fluorocarbon oil with a large refractive index contrast. Optical confinement of the incident light due to total internal reflection at the concave internal interface of the biphasic emulsion droplets leads to a strong increase of the light intensity inside the reaction medium. In addition, the high gas solubility within the outer fluorocarbon phase promotes oxygen delivery in photocatalytic oxidation reactions. Both effects mutually contribute to a strong performance increase of a series of homogeneous and heterogeneous photocatalytic reactions even under diffuse sunlight conditions.
Synchronous Temperature and Magnetic Field Dual‐Sensing by Luminescence in a Dysprosium Single‐Molecule Magnet
Authors: Ferreira Rute A. S. , Mamontova Ekaterina , Botas Alexandre M. P. , Shestakov Mikhail , Vanacken Johan , Moshchalkov Victor , Guari Yannick , Chibotaru Liviu F. , Luneau Dominique , André Paulo S. , Larionova Joulia , Long Jérôme , Carlos Luís D.
Published: October 2021

Sensors are increasingly present in the everyday life in widespread technological applications, and engineering smart systems able to simultaneously detect different physical quantities represents a scientific challenge. Taking advantage of the molecular chemistry realm that offers the possibility to finely adjust physical properties, it is demonstrated herein that the luminescent single‐molecule magnet [Dy(acac)3(H2O)2]·H2O (acac = acetylacetonate) acts as a dual and synchronous thermometric/magnetic optical sensor in large ranges (10.0–180.0 K and up to ≈45 T) holding the promise to detect their variations in future devices.
Suppression of Eu2+ Luminescence Loss
Authors: He Jin , Shi Rui , Wang Zhiqiang , Li Minsi , Sham Tsun‐Kong , Fu Lianshe
Published: October 2021

Owing to the intriguing luminescence properties, Eu2+ is one of the most desirable activators for next‐generation lighting devices. Yet the application of Eu2+‐doped phosphors is limited because of the drawback of inferior luminescence efficiency. Understanding of this issue is generally from perspectives of frame structural rigidity and electronic band structure, while the lack of persuasiveness of this paradigm is frequently noticed. Herein, the analysis is conducted from a fresh view to investigate the outstanding luminescence properties of Eu2+‐doped SrMgP2O7 owning the narrow‐band emission and near‐unity quantum yield. The structural rigidity of materials is elaborately evaluated, and the influence of ionization on the luminescence efficiency of material is carefully discussed. Efforts are also made to assess the effect of vibronic coupling on 4f−5d transition of Eu2+ and clarify the excitation energy transfer route by using X‐ray spectroscopy. Based on these discussions, the synergy of weak electron−vibration interaction and inactive ionization causes the suppression of Eu2+ luminescence loss, which is associated with highly rigid local coordination and strong binding of Eu2+ to its valence electrons in the system, respectively. This work provides insight into the luminescence mechanism of Eu2+, which benefits the exploration of novel phosphors with superior luminescence features.
Environmental Impacts of Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries Based on Life Cycle Assessment
Authors: Iturrondobeitia Maider , Akizu‐Gardoki Ortzi , Amondarain Oier , Minguez Rikardo , Lizundia Erlantz
Published: October 2021

Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) are gaining widespread scientific and industrial attention thanks to their safety and potential environmental sustainability in comparison with other battery chemistries relying on organic electrolytes. AZIBs are good candidates for sustainable stationary storage, covering household energy needs or smoothing the intermittency associated with wind and solar energy. In spite of their potential as a sustainable energy storage technology, the study of their environmental repercussions remains unexplored. The environmental impacts associated with the fabrication of AZIBs are quantified using a cradle‐to‐gate life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. Six laboratory‐scale battery designs offering high delivered capacity, energy density and operating lifespan are selected. The contribution of different battery components to eighteen environmental impact indicators is shown. An average value of 45.1 kg CO2 equiv per 1 kWh is obtained considering the metallic Zn anode, the cathode, the separator, the aqueous electrolyte and the electricity required for cell assembly. AZIBs are environmentally competitive with lithium‐ion, lithium‐oxygen, lithium‐sulfur, and sodium‐ion battery technologies and are attractive from a Circular Economy viewpoint given the potential of renewable materials as separators and the high recycling rates of electrodes. The obtained results prove the suitability of zinc ion batteries as a sustainable stationary energy storage solution.
Space‐Time Wave Packets from Smith‐Purcell Radiation
Authors: Tan Yi Ji , Pitchappa Prakash , Wang Nan , Singh Ranjan , Wong Liang Jie
Published: October 2021

Space‐time wave packets are electromagnetic waves with strong correlations between their spatial and temporal degrees of freedom. These wave packets have gained much attention for fundamental properties like propagation invariance and user‐designed group velocities, and for potential applications like optical microscopy, micromanipulation, and laser micromachining. Here, free‐electron radiation is presented as a natural and versatile source of space‐time wave packets that are ultra‐broadband and highly tunable in frequency. For instance, ab initio theory and numerical simulations show that the intensity profile of space‐time wave packets from Smith‐Purcell radiation can be directly tailored through the grating properties, as well as the velocity and shape of the electron bunches. The result of this work indicates a viable way of generating space‐time wave packets at exotic frequencies such as the terahertz and X‐ray regimes, potentially paving the way toward new methods of shaping electromagnetic wave packets through free‐electron radiation.
Rational Design of a Modality‐Specific Inhibitor of TRPM8 Channel against Oxaliplatin‐Induced Cold Allodynia
Authors: Aierken Aerziguli , Xie Ya‐Kai , Dong Wenqi , Apaer Abuliken , Lin Jia‐Jia , Zhao Zihan , Yang Shilong , Xu Zhen‐Zhong , Yang Fan
Published: October 2021

Platinum‐based compounds in chemotherapy such as oxaliplatin often induce peripheral neuropathy and neuropathic pain such as cold allodynia in patients. Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 8 (TRPM8) ion channel is a nociceptor critically involved in such pathological processes. Direct blockade of TRPM8 exhibits significant analgesic effects but also incurs severe side effects such as hypothermia. To selectively target TRPM8 channels against cold allodynia, a cyclic peptide DeC‐1.2 is de novo designed with the optimized hot‐spot centric approach. DeC‐1.2 modality specifically inhibited the ligand activation of TRPM8 but not the cold activation as measured in single‐channel patch clamp recordings. It is further demonstrated that DeC‐1.2 abolishes cold allodynia in oxaliplatin treated mice without altering body temperature, indicating DeC‐1.2 has the potential for further development as a novel analgesic against oxaliplatin‐induced neuropathic pain.
Activating Lattice Oxygen in Perovskite Oxide by B‐Site Cation Doping for Modulated Stability and Activity at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Chen Huijun , Lim Chaesung , Zhou Mengzhen , He Zuyun , Sun Xiang , Li Xiaobao , Ye Yongjian , Tan Ting , Zhang Hui , Yang Chenghao , Han Jeong Woo , Chen Yan
Published: October 2021

Doping perovskite oxide with different cations is used to improve its electro‐catalytic performance for various energy and environment devices. In this work, an activated lattice oxygen activity in Pr0.4Sr0.6CoxFe0.9−xNb0.1O3−δ (PSCxFN, x = 0, 0.2, 0.7) thin film model system by B‐site cation doping is reported. As Co doping level increases, PSCxFN thin films exhibit higher concentration of oxygen vacancies () as revealed by X‐ray diffraction and synchrotron‐based X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Density functional theory calculation results suggest that Co doping leads to more distortion in FeO octahedra and weaker metaloxygen bonds caused by the increase of antibonding state, thereby lowering formation energy. As a consequence, PSCxFN thin film with higher Co‐doping level presents larger amount of exsolved particles on the surface. Both the facilitated formation and B‐site cation exsolution lead to the enhanced hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) activity. Excessive Co doping until 70%, nevertheless, results in partial decomposition of thin film and degrades the stability. Pr0.4Sr0.6(Co0.2Fe0.7Nb0.1)O3 with moderate Co doping level displays both good HOR activity and stability. This work clarifies the critical role of B‐site cation doping in determining the formation process, the surface activity, and structure stability of perovskite oxides.
Melt‐Extrusion‐Based Additive Manufacturing of Transparent Fused Silica Glass
Authors: Mader Markus , Hambitzer Leonhard , Schlautmann Phillip , Jenne Sophie , Greiner Christian , Hirth Florian , Helmer Dorothea , Kotz‐Helmer Frederik , Rapp Bastian E.
Published: October 2021

In recent years, additive manufacturing (AM) of glass has attracted great interest in academia and industry, yet it is still mostly limited to liquid nanocomposite‐based approaches for stereolithography, two‐photon polymerization, or direct ink writing. Melt‐extrusion‐based processes, such as fused deposition modeling (FDM), which will allow facile manufacturing of large thin‐walled components or simple multimaterial printing processes, are so far inaccessible for AM of transparent fused silica glass. Here, melt‐extrusion‐based AM of transparent fused silica is introduced by FDM and fused feedstock deposition (FFD) using thermoplastic silica nanocomposites that are converted to transparent glass using debinding and sintering. This will enable printing of previously inaccessible glass structures like high‐aspect‐ratio (>480) vessels with wall thicknesses down to 250 µm, delicate parts including overhanging features using polymer support structures, as well as dual extrusion for multicolored glasses.
Achieving Large Switchable Polarization and Enhanced Piezoelectric Response in BiFeO3‐PbTiO3 Solid Solution Ceramics
Authors: Zhuang Jian , Tang Zhuohua , Lu Jinming , Bokov Alexei A. , Zhang Nan , Kubrin Stanislav P. , Raevski Igor P. , Luo Zeng , Lian Qin , Yang Shuming , Ren Wei , Ye Zuo‐Guang
Published: October 2021

Perovskite materials based on BiFeO3‐PbTiO3 (BFPT) solid solutions are promising for various applications thanks to the extremely large spontaneous polarization (Ps) and existence of multiferroic morphotropic phase boundary. For applications in piezoelectric and memory devices, complete switching of Ps is needed, which is hard to achieve practically. In this work, a simple modified mixed‐oxide reaction method is developed allowing to prepare Dy‐ and Sm‐modified BFPT ceramics with significantly improved properties. The MPB compositions demonstrate well‐saturated ferroelectric hysteresis loops with large switchable remanent polarization of 60 µC cm−2 and enhanced piezoelectric properties with a large‐signal piezoelectric coefficient d33* = 214 pm V−1 and a direct piezoelectric coefficient d33 = 128 pC N−1, which is one and a half times larger than the best d33 value reported for the BFPT ceramics so far. The Curie temperature reaches 539 °C, suggesting a potential for high‐temperature applications. The domain structure is studied by piezoresponse force microscopy. It is found that the enhanced dielectric/piezoelectric properties are mainly due to polarization rotation/extension (intrinsic) mechanism, while the extrinsic contributions of the interphase and domain walls are virtually absent. The strategies for improvement of properties of BFPT and related materials are proposed.
Pt‐Induced Defects Curing on BiVO4 Photoanodes for Near‐Threshold Charge Separation
Authors: Gao Rui‐Ting , Liu Shujie , Guo Xiaotian , Zhang Rongao , He Jinlu , Liu Xianhu , Nakajima Tomohiko , Zhang Xueyuan , Wang Lei
Published: October 2021

Photostability is one of the most essential properties for evaluating photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting performance on semiconductors. Herein, the oxygen‐deficiency conditions are applied to tune and activate BiVO4 photoanodes with a class of oxygen vacancies across the whole bulk material, and regulate the electronic occupancy of these states upon the charge carrier processes that determine PEC water oxidation activity. Through the experimental results and nonadiabatic molecular dynamics with time‐domain density functional theory calculations, the charge carrier lifetime can be influenced by the oxygen vacancies concentration on BiVO4, and the semiconductor can be flexibly photoactivated under oxygen‐sufficient and deficient atmospheres for enhancing the charge carrier density and photovoltage. The PEC performance of BiVO4 is further boosted by Pt doping, which exhibits a record photocurrent density of 5.45 mA cm–2 at 1.23 VRHE with solar conversion efficiency of 2.1% at 0.65 VRHE. The Pt can prevent the unnecessory charge recombination on the defected BiVO4, which also enhances the majority charge carrier density, resulting in one of the best charge separation efficiencies, close to 100%, among the steady‐state PEC performance for BiVO4. More importantly, the resulting Pt:BiVO4 presents long‐term stability over 50 h at 0.8 VRHE.
Deep Eutectic Solvents: Green Approach for Cathode Recycling of Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Padwal Chinmayee , Pham Hong Duc , Jadhav Sagar , Do Thu Trang , Nerkar Jawahar , Hoang Linh Thi My , Kumar Nanjundan Ashok , Mundree Sagadevan G. , Dubal Deepak P.
Published: October 2021

The overarching demand of modern electronics and electrification of transportation has tremendously increased usage of rechargeable lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). As a result, massive amounts of solid waste are generated from the end‐of‐life LIBs and expected to increase by two‐ to threefolds in the near future. Without proper recycling strategies and infrastructure, the immediate threat of environmental pollution and wastage of resources is clear. One way to circumvent these challenges is to recycle the spent LIBs and recover the components and materials, especially heavy metals for future repurposing applications. This review highlights the recent discoveries on the use of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as an economical and environmentally friendly medium for metal recovery from spent LIBs. Herein, how the different hydrogen donors and acceptors affect the overall performance of DES in terms of leaching efficiency, time, temperature, and metal recovery rates are outlined. Very importantly, the mechanism of metal leaching from the metal oxides using DES is discussed. Finally, some potential strategies and opportunities for further development of novel DES for metal‐recovery from not only spent LIBs but also other industries such as, mining, oil, and agriculture are outlined.
Growth and survival of diploid and triploid bata, Labeo bata (Hamilton, 1822)
Authors: Afroz Khan Benzir , Shah Md. Saifuddin , Salin Krishna R. , Rahi Md. Lifat
Published: October 2021

Bata (Labeo bata), an indigenous, freshwater minor carp, is a great delicacy in Bangladesh. In its natural fishery, bata contributes significantly to the health and nutritional security of a large section of the fisher communities in Bangladesh. However, it is not a popular farmed fish because of its small size and slow growth rate. The induction of triploidy, aimed at providing faster growth and larger body size, could be appropriate for L. bata to enhance its aquaculture potential. In the present study, we induced triploidy in L. bata by applying heat shock on fertilised eggs (that were maintained at the ambient temperature of 26–28°C), 3 to 5 min post fertilisation and for durations ranging from 1 to 2 min. Four different temperatures, namely, 38, 39, 40 and 41°C, were tested as heat shock treatments. The optimum treatment combination for triploidy induction in L. bata was found to be 39°C for the 1 min duration, 3 min after fertilisation, yielding 100% triploidy. Karyotyping revealed 72 chromosomes in the triploid fish (3n), whereas the diploid control (2n) had 48 chromosomes. The growth performance of the triploid hatchlings was compared against the diploid control in experimental ponds. After 12 weeks of rearing, the triploid fish were significantly heavier (p < 0.05) than their diploid counterparts. The survival rate of the triploids was also better (69%) than that of diploids (56%). Overall, results revealed better performance (growth and survival) of triploid bata over diploids, indicating that the farming of triploid bata can be a viable practice in Bangladesh.
Rapid changes in agricultural land use and hydrology in the Driftless Region
Authors: Bendorf Josh , Hubbard Shane , Kucharik Christopher J. , VanLoocke Andy
Published: October 2021

Annual cropping systems are common in the Driftless Region of the U.S. Midwest, but soil degradation is prone to happen in such systems due to the rugged topography of the region. Recent rapid increases in row crop area have been noted in this region, with annual precipitation and hydrologic extremes on the rise in recent decades. The aim of this research to use geospatial datasets and tools in order to assess the regional trends in land use, precipitation, and hydrologic change and quantify the relationship between these environmental trends. Between 2006 and 2017, substantial row crop expansion of 10,000 ha or more was common across HUC 8 (Hydrologic Unit Code 8) watersheds in our study area. Expansion occurred mainly on steeper slopes, converting existing grasslands or alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) to row crops. Classifying land as planted (in row crops), plantable (in row crops or could be converted), and unplantable (unable to be converted) revealed that Driftless Region watersheds have ∼30–50% of plantable land available for future expansion. Annual precipitation was highly variable during this time period but had a general increasing trend. On average, precipitation showed higher correlation to streamflow compared to row crop expansion across 27 USGS river gage drainage basins in our study area. However, when the increase in row crop area was significant and was accompanied by increasing precipitation, stronger correlation between row crop area and annual streamflow was exhibited. This finding suggests that row crop expansion acts to enhance the effects of increasing precipitation on local hydrology.
Lanthanide‐based bulky counterions against aggregation‐caused quenching of dyes in fluorescent polymeric nanoparticles
Authors: Severi Caterina , Lahtinen Satu , Rosenberg Jaana , Reisch Andreas , Soukka Tero , Klymchenko Andrey S.
Published: October 2021

Dye‐loaded polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) are promising bioimaging agents because of their available surface chemistry, high brightness, and tunable optical properties. However, high dye loadings can cause the aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) of the encapsulated fluorophores. Previously, we proposed to mitigate the ACQ inside polymeric NPs by insulating cationic dyes with bulky hydrophobic counterions. In order to implement new functionalities into dye‐loaded NPs, here, we extend the concept of bulky counterions to anionic lanthanide‐based complexes. We show that by employing Gd‐based counterions with octadecyl rhodamine B loaded NPs at 30 wt% versus polymer, the fluorescence quantum yield can be increased to 10‐fold (to 0.34). Moreover, Gd‐anion provides NPs with enhanced contrast in electron microscopy. A combination of a luminescent Eu‐based counterion with a far‐red to near‐infrared cyanine 5 dye (DiD) yields Forster resonance energy transfer NPs, where the UV‐excited Eu‐based counterion transfers energy to DiD, generating delayed fluorescence and large stokes shift of ∼340 nm. Cellular studies reveal low cytotoxicity of NPs and their capacity to internalize without detectable dye leakage, in contrast to leaky NPs with small counterions. Our findings show that the aggregation behavior of cationic dyes in the polymeric NPs can be controlled by bulky lanthanide anions, which will help in developing bright luminescent multifunctional nanomaterials.
Mass transfer of anti‐cancer drug delivery to brain tumors by a multiple emulsion‐based implant
Authors: Dluska Ewa , Markowska‐Radomska Agnieszka , Metera Agata , Rudniak Leszek , Kosicki Konrad
Published: October 2021

The advanced use of a pH‐responsive biomaterial‐based injectable liquid implant for effective chemotherapeutic delivery in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) brain tumor treatment is presented. As an implant, we proposed a water‐in‐oil‐in‐water multiple emulsion with encapsulated doxorubicin. The effectiveness of the proposed therapy was evaluated by comparing the cancer cell viability achieved in classical therapy (chemotherapeutic solution). The experimental study included doxorubicin release rates and consumption for two emulsions differing in drop sizes and structures in the presence of GBM‐cells (LN229, U87 MG), and a cell viability. The results showed that the multiple emulsion implant was significantly more effective than classical therapy when considering the reduction in cancer cell viability: 85% for the emulsion‐implant, and only 43% for the classical therapy. A diffusion–reaction model was adapted to predict doxorubicin release kinetics and elimination by glioblastoma cells. CFD (computational fluid dynamics) simulations confirmed that the drug release kinetics depends on multiple emulsion structures and drop sizes.
Phylogeny, classification, and character evolution of tribe Citharexyleae (Verbenaceae)
Authors: Frost Laura A. , O'Leary Nataly , Lagomarsino Laura P. , Tank David C. , Olmstead Richard G.
Published: October 2021

Premise

As a family of Neotropical origin and primarily Neotropical distribution, the Verbenaceae are a good but understudied system with which to understand Neotropical evolution. Tribe Citharexyleae comprises three genera: Baillonia, Citharexylum—one of the largest genera in Verbenaceae—and Rehdera. A molecular phylogenetic approach was taken to resolve intergeneric relationships in Citharexyleae and infrageneric relationships in Citharexylum. The phylogeny is used to elucidate character evolution in a widespread, morphologically diverse Neotropical genus.

Methods

Seven plastid regions, two nuclear ribosomal spacers, and six low‐copy nuclear loci were analyzed for 64 species of Citharexyleae. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using maximum likelihood, Bayesian inference, and multispecies coalescent approaches. Habit, presence or absence of thorns, inflorescence architecture, flower color, fruit color, and geography were examined to identify diagnostic character states for clades within Citharexylum.

Results

Rehdera is resolved as sister to Citharexylum, and Baillonia nested within Citharexylum. Two species, C. oleinum and C. tetramerum, are not closely related to tribe Citharexyleae, but may be related to members of tribe Duranteae instead. Seven clades within Citharexylum are inferred, each characterized by a combination of geography, fruit color and/or maturation, and inflorescence architecture. There is evidence of correlated evolution between habit, axillary inflorescences, and flower number per inflorescence. Shrubs with reduced inflorescences have evolved repeatedly.

Conclusions

A subgeneric classification for Citharexylum is proposed. Although suites of associated traits are found, character morphology has been labile throughout Citharexylum's evolutionary history. Morphological diversity may be related to adaptation to differing mesic and xeric habitats.
Hydraulic architecture with high root‐resistance fraction contributes to efficient carbon gain of plants in temperate habitats
Authors: Taneda Haruhiko , Ikeda Takefumi
Published: October 2021

Premise

The hydraulic architecture in the leaves, stems and roots of plants constrains water transport and carbon gain through stomatal limitation to CO2 absorption. Because roots are the main bottleneck in water transport for a range of plant species, we assessed the ecophysiological mechanism and importance of a high fraction of root hydraulic resistance in woody and herbaceous species.

Methods

Biomass partitioning and hydraulic conductance of leaves, stems, and roots of Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica, a perennial herb) and Japanese zelkova (Zelkova serrata, a deciduous tall tree) were measured. Theoretical analyses were used to examine whether the measured hydraulic architecture and biomass partitioning maximized the plant photosynthetic rate (the product of leaf area and photosynthetic rate per leaf area).

Results

Root hydraulic resistance accounted for 83% and 68% of the total plant resistance for Japanese knotweed and Japanese zelkova, respectively. Comparisons of hydraulic and biomass partitioning revealed that high root‐resistance fractions were attributable to low biomass partitioning to root organs rather than high mass‐specific root conductance. The measured partitioning of hydraulic resistance closely corresponded to the predicted optimal partitioning, maximizing the plant photosynthetic rate for the two species. The high fraction of root resistance was predicted to be optimal with variations in air humidity and soil water potential.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the hydraulic architecture of plants growing in mesic and fertile habitats not only results in high root resistance due to small biomass partitioning to root organs, but contributes to efficient carbon gain.
Demystifying mentorship: Tips for successfully navigating the mentor–mentee journey
Authors: Ocobock Cara , Niclou Alexandra , Loewen Tisa , Arslanian Kendall , Gibson Rebecca , Valeggia Claudia
Published: October 2021

Background

Quality mentorship is crucial for long‐term success in academia and overall job satisfaction. Unfortunately, formal mentorship training is lacking, and there is little recourse for failed mentor–mentee relationships.

Methods

We performed a literature review to understand the current state of mentorship research with a focus on: (1) what mentorship is and why it is important for success; (2) establishing mentor‐mentee relationships; and (3) the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Results

From the literature review, we compiled a number of mentorship recommendations for individuals, departments, institutions, and professional associations. These recommendations focus on building a mentorship network, establishing formalized mentorship training, how to build a productive and mutually beneficial mentor–mentee relationship, and instituting a system of mentorship accountability.

Conclusion

We hope that by centralizing this information and providing a list of resources and actionable recommendations we inspire and encourage others to make meaningful changes in their approach to mentorship to create a more kind, caring, and equitable environment in which to conduct our work.