bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The inherent flexibility of receptor binding domains in SARS-CoV-2 spike protein
Authors: Dokainish Hisham M , Re Suyong , Mori Takaharu , Kobayashi Chigusa , Jung Jaewoon , Sugita Yuji
Published: March 2022

Spike (S) protein is the primary antigenic target for neutralization and vaccine development for the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It decorates the virus surface and undergoes large motions of its receptor binding domains (RBDs) to enter the host cell. Here, we observe Down, one-Up, one-Open, and two-Up-like structures in enhanced molecular dynamics simulations, and characterize the transition pathways via inter-domain interactions. Transient salt-bridges between RBDA and RBDC and the interaction with glycan at N343B support RBDA motions from Down to one-Up. Reduced interactions between RBDA and RBDB in one-Up induce RBDB motions toward two-Up. The simulations overall agree with cryo-electron microscopy structure distributions and FRET experiments and provide hidden functional structures, namely, intermediates along Down-to-one-Up transition with druggable cryptic pockets as well as one-Open with a maximum exposed RBD. The inherent flexibility of S-protein thus provides essential information for antiviral drug rational design or vaccine development.
Lack of Tgfbr1 and Acvr1b synergistically stimulates myofibre hypertrophy and accelerates muscle regeneration
Authors: Hillege Michèle MG , Shi Andi , Galli Ricardo A , Wu Gang , Bertolino Philippe , Hoogaars Willem MH , Jaspers Richard T
Published: March 2022

In skeletal muscle, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family growth factors, TGF-β1 and myostatin, are involved in atrophy and muscle wasting disorders. Simultaneous interference with their signalling pathways may improve muscle function; however, little is known about their individual and combined receptor signalling. Here, we show that inhibition of TGF-β signalling by simultaneous muscle-specific knockout of TGF-β type I receptors Tgfbr1 and Acvr1b in mice, induces substantial hypertrophy, while such effect does not occur by single receptor knockout. Hypertrophy is induced by increased phosphorylation of Akt and p70S6K and reduced E3 ligases expression, while myonuclear number remains unaltered. Combined knockout of both TGF-β type I receptors increases the number of satellite cells, macrophages and improves regeneration post cardiotoxin-induced injury by stimulating myogenic differentiation. Extra cellular matrix gene expression is exclusively elevated in muscle with combined receptor knockout. Tgfbr1 and Acvr1b are synergistically involved in regulation of myofibre size, regeneration, and collagen deposition.
First fossil-leaf floras from Brunei Darussalam show dipterocarp dominance in Borneo by the Pliocene
Authors: Wilf Peter , Zou Xiaoyu , Donovan Michael P. , Kocsis László , Briguglio Antonino , Shaw David , Slik JW Ferry , Lambiase Joseph J.
Published: March 2022

The Malay Archipelago is one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth, but it suffers high extinction risks due to severe anthropogenic pressures. Paleobotanical knowledge provides baselines for the conservation of living analogs and improved understanding of vegetation, biogeography, and paleoenvironments through time. The Malesian bioregion is well studied palynologically, but there have been very few investigations of Cenozoic paleobotany (plant macrofossils) in a century or more. We report the first paleobotanical survey of Brunei Darussalam, a sultanate on the north coast of Borneo that still preserves the majority of its extraordinarily diverse, old-growth tropical rainforests. We discovered abundant compression floras dominated by angiosperm leaves at two sites of probable Pliocene age: Berakas Beach, in the Liang Formation, and Kampong Lugu, in an undescribed stratigraphic unit. Both sites also yielded rich palynofloral assemblages from the macrofossil-bearing beds, indicating lowland fern-dominated swamp (Berakas Beach) and mangrove swamp (Kampong Lugu) depositional environments. Fern spores from at least nine families dominate both palynological assemblages, along with abundant fungal and freshwater algal remains, rare marine microplankton, at least four mangrove genera, and a diverse rainforest tree and liana contribution (at least 19 families) with scarce pollen of Dipterocarpaceae, today’s dominant regional life form. Compressed leaves and rare reproductive material represent influx to the depocenters from the adjacent coastal rainforests. Although only about 40% of specimens preserve informative details, we can distinguish 23 leaf and two reproductive morphotypes among the two sites. Dipterocarps are by far the most abundant group in both compression assemblages, providing rare, localized evidence for dipterocarp-dominated lowland rainforests in the Malay Archipelago before the Pleistocene. The dipterocarp fossils include wingedShoreafruits, at least two species of plicateDipterocarpusleaves, and very commonDryobalanopsleaves. We attribute additional leaf taxa to Rhamnaceae (Ziziphus), Melastomataceae, and Araceae (Rhaphidophora), all rare or new fossil records for the region. The dipterocarp leaf dominance contrasts sharply with the family’s <1% representation in the palynofloras from the same strata. This result directly demonstrates that dipterocarp pollen is prone to strong taphonomic filtering and underscores the importance of macrofossils for quantifying the timing of the dipterocarps’ rise to dominance in the region. Our work shows that complex coastal rainforests dominated by dipterocarps, adjacent to swamps and mangroves and otherwise similar to modern ecosystems, have existed in Borneo for at least 4–5 million years. Our findings add historical impetus for the conservation of these gravely imperiled and extremely biodiverse ecosystems.
Impact Assessment on Attainment of Social Status by MGNREGA Beneficiaries in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Balasubramaniam P. , Sriram N. , Mohanraj V. , Kanimozhi R.
Published: March 2022

More than 60 per cent of total workforce in the country derives their livelihood from agriculture and high dependency on agriculture has caused decrease in per capita household income from farm sector and mechanization in agricultural production has resulted in lesser employment in the rural areas and causes poverty among the rural masses. MGNREGA is regarded as the largest public employment programme in the world, assures 100 days of work per year to all rural households. A sample size of 200 Beneficiaries with 40 Beneficiaries from each village was selected for the study. In Salem district Panamarathupatty block were purposively selected. The weighted mean score were analysed for each component and ranked based on the weighted mean scores. The results of overall attainment of social status of beneficiaries, shows that in personal status two-fifth of the beneficiaries (40.00 per cent) had high level followed by 35.50 per cent had medium level and one-fourth of the beneficiaries (24.50 per cent) had low level of attainment in personal status. In economic status majority of the beneficiaries (88.50 per cent) falls on medium to high level. The most of the beneficiaries (76.00 per cent) in the study area attained medium to high level of societal status in the society, the MGNREGA beneficiaries participate more in the panchayat programmes, discussion on new projects and planning of welfare activities in the panchayat. The scheme has a positive impact on the livelihood of wage labourers in the rural areas and it improves the socio-economic status of the unskilled workers in the village and also contributed to the non- migration of village unskilled workers to urban areas. The MGNREGA has made tangible impact on the livelihood of the people and empowered women to a large extend.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms at +45 T>G and at +276 G>T of the Adiponectin Gene and Plasma Adiponectin Level in Myanmar Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Thin Yu Khin , Myint Thein , Swe Latt Tint
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most common metabolic diseases and poses a substantial burden on health care systems globally. There is compelling data that genetic susceptibility to T2DM is polygenic. Genome-wide association studies have identified almost 50 loci associated with T2DM risk. Adiponectin gene polymorphism may be a causal role in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and T2DM.

Aims: The aim of the study was to investigate the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) at rs 2241766 (SNP+45 T>G) and at rs 1501299 (SNP+276 G>T) of adiponectin gene and plasma adiponectin level in Myanmar Type 2 Diabetic patients.

Study Design:  It was a cross-sectional analytical study.

Methodology: 100 Type 2 Diabetic patients and 104 non-diabetic subjects were included. Genotype frequencies were determined by PCR-RFLP method and plasma adiponectin level was measured by ELISA method.

Results: Carrier groups (TG and GG genotypes of SNP+45) were more likely to develop T2DM risk than non-carrier groups (TT) [OR =1.8 (95% CI = 0.89-3.63, p = 0.09) and OR = 3.51 (95% CI = 1.07-11.54, p =0.04)] respectively. Carrier groups (GT and TT genotypes of SNP+276) were more likely to develop T2DM risk than non-carrier groups (GG) [OR =1.98 (95% CI =1.10-3.55, p = 0.02) and OR = 4.07 (95% CI =1.34-12.3, p = 0.01)] respectively. Therefore, G allele of SNP+45 was found to statistically increase T2DM risk than T allele and T allele of SNP+276 was found to statistically increase T2DM risk than G allele. Mean plasma adiponectin level (27.41±16.7µg/ml) of T2DM patients was significantly lower than that of non-diabetic subjects (37.19±26.77 µg/ml), (p =0.002). Mean plasma adiponectin levels of carrier groups (TG and GG of SNP+45) were significantly lower than that of non-carrier groups (TT). Mean plasma adiponectin levels of carrier groups (GT and TT of SNP+276) were significantly lower than that of non-carrier groups (GG).

Conclusion: SNP+45 T>G and +276 G>T of adiponectin gene are significantly associated with low plasma adiponectin level and type 2 diabetes mellitus in this study groups of Myanmar population.
Effect of Poly-Herbal Formula (PHF5) on Hepatoprotective and Biochemical Parameters of Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats
Authors: U. Iloanusi David , C. Njoku George , C. Aririguzo Prisca , C. Nwagu Isabel , C. Iloanusi Mildred , P. Christain Chizurum
Published: March 2022

Background: The current estimates by World Health Organization revealed that near 2030, the number of diabetic patients will reach up to 370 million in the world wide . It would be one of the most common degenerative illnesses in human beings in future that needs to seek urgent solution. Plants have been the major source of medicine since the ancient time.

Purpose: This study evaluated the hepaprotective action of Ocimum gratissimum, Gnetum africanum, Gongronema latifolium, Vernonia amygdalina and Aloe Barbadensis leaf extracts and their effects on biochemical parameters of induced alloxan diabetic wister rats. Standard methods were used in the extraction process.

Methods: Thirty (30) male Wistar rats weighing (80_120) grams were obtained and they were kept in animal house to acclimatize for two weeks prior to the experiment. The rats were divided into six groups containing five rats each. Group 1 served as normal control, group 2 had the diabetic rats treated with PHF5 (75 mg/kg bodyweight); group 3 contained diabetic rats treated with PHF5 (150 mg/kg bodyweight); group 4 contained diabetic rats treated with PHF5 (300 mg/kg bodyweight); group 5 had diabetic rats not given any intervention, group 6 contained diabetic rats treated with Glibenclamide (5 mg/kg bodyweight). The rats were induced via intra peritoneal by using alloxan monohydrate (100 mg/kg bodyweight). Extracts of PHF5 were administered to the rats orally for eight weeks, after which rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation under light ether anaesthesia. Blood was collected for biochemical evaluation using standard techniques (Randox kits). Fasting blood glucose level was checked weekly.

Results: Acute toxicity studies of PHF5 revealed no toxicity to the animals that received the PHF5 dose up to 1000 mg/kg bodyweight. The increased liver (Aspartate amino transferase, Alanine Transferase and Alkaline Phosphatase) marker enzymes in the diabetic rats were significantly (p<0.05) lowered in the PHF5 treated rats and found to be within the normal range while total protein was significantly higher showed no effect on the liver total protein.

Conclusion: It is concluded that this study suggest that treating alloxan induced diabetic rats with poly herbal formulated (PHF5); Ocimum gratissimum, Gnetum africanum, Gongronema latifolium, Vernonia amygdalina, and Aloe Barbadensis leaf extracts in different doses of mg/kg enhanced hepaprotective protection against body damage.
An Evaluation of Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Structure and Firm Size on the Controlling Effect of Dividend Policy on Shareholders Wealth Volatility of Some Selected Companies Listed on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX)
Authors: Orelope Koleosho Adekunle , Akintoye Ishola Rufus , Ajibade Ayodeji Temitope , Ajayi-Owoeye Ayooluwa Olotu , Abe Peter Oludare
Published: March 2022

Shareholders wealth volatility has exhibited different patterns in different global exchange markets including the Nigerian exchange. Unravelling attempts of the possible causes of this volatility have been made, as well as how the aforementioned are mitigated. These attempts are due to their implications on share valuation as well as the need to reduce market manipulations. Studies have shown that dividend decision has been one of the major puzzles yet unresolved regarding shareholders wealth volatility and there have been fewer studies in this regard, especially in developing economies like Nigeria. This study, therefore, examined the effect of dividend policy on shareholders wealth volatility of selected companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange.

The study adopted ex-post facto research design. The population of the study is 162 companies listed in the Nigerian Exchange as at 31 December 2020. The study sample consisted of 49 companies randomly selected. Data for the period 2010 - 2020 were collected from the NSE, and companies’ data on the Bloomberg Terminals and their official websites. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Inferential statistics resulted from Regression and Correlation analysis. The study found that the dividend policy exerted a statistically significant effect on Shareholders wealth Volatility (Adj.R2 = 0.303, W(3, 2156) = 95.82, p = 0.000). Firm Size, Number of Shares Outstanding and Ownership Structure jointly and significantly controlled the effect of Dividend Policy on Shareholders Wealth Volatility (∆Adj.R2 = 0.114, W (6, 2156) = 320.41, p = 0.000). The study concluded that dividend policy affects shareholders' wealth volatility. The study recommended that the companies should focus more on the payout ratio while investors should go for entities with constant dividend payout ratio. In addition, it further recommended that policy owners should enforce adherence to the minimum free float requirements of the Nigerian Exchange.
Contribution of Employee Commitment on West ‘B’ Municipal Council Operations in Zanzibar-Tanzania
Authors: Hamdu Makame Rashidi , W. Muhammed Rukkaya
Published: March 2022

This study was carried out for the purpose of examining the contribution of employee Commitment on West “B” Municipal Council operations. “West B” Municipal Council is among ten Municipalities found in Zanzibar. The population of this study comprised of all West “B” Municipal Council’s staffs. Primary data was collected from 160 staffs out of 269 staffs. The study used Quantitative approach and Simple Random sampling technique was used. Questionnaire was administered to collect Primary data. West “B” Municipal council Operations were taken as dependent and Employee commitment as independent variables. The analysis of the data applied SPSS v.23 Software. Regression analysis tests were carried out to examine the relationship between employee commitment and West “B” Municipal Council Operations. Individual effect of Independent Variable was measured or evaluated by using individual Regression Coefficient from the model, however the combined effect of all independent variable was evaluated by using F-Value from the Anova Table which is produced along with regression coefficient of the same model. General conclusion were, the study indicated a high degree of impact between employee Affective commitment on West “B” Municipal Council Operations compared to other components of employee Commitment that were Continuance and normative commitment. For West “B” Municipal Council to perform better in its operations, study recommended that, special effort on motivating staff should be kept into consideration in order to have Normative and Continuance commitment that would lead to better organizational performance operationally.
High‐Brightness, High‐Resolution, and Flexible Triboelectrification‐Induced Electroluminescence Skin for Real‐Time Imaging and Human–Machine Information Interaction
Authors: Jia Chunyang , Xia Yifan , Zhu Yan , Wu Min , Zhu Shunli , Wang Xin
Published: March 2022

With perceiving and converting mechanical stimuli into electrical and visual readouts simultaneously, electronic skin endows a safe and effective interaction between human and environment. However, both weak optical signals and low spatial resolution are still challenging the potential application of electronic skin in human–machine information interaction (HMI). Herein, a novel high‐brightness, high‐resolution, and flexible triboelectrification‐induced electroluminescence (TIEL) skin is developed for real‐time imaging and HMI. The TIEL skin composed of ZnS:Cu‐embedded polyvinylidene‐fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene (ZEPH) film can convert gentle touch stimuli into real‐time light emission at trigger pressure threshold as low as 1.25 kPa. Moreover, collected by fiber optic spectrometer, the brightness of TIEL is 2.5 times as strong as an LED lighted up by 2 V power supply. Meanwhile, the bright TIEL emission can also be observed by the naked eyes in the daytime. Furthermore, a spatial resolution of less than 220 µm can be achieved in real‐time TIEL imaging. Additionally, by integrating the ZEPH films with the microcontroller, a wearable optical–electrical dual‐output‐based wireless communication system is constructed to control the trajectory of a miniature car. The unique operation of the desired TIEL with simple fabrication demonstrates a great potential in trajectory tracking, skin prosthesis, robotics, and advanced HMI.
Tunable Friction Properties of Periodic Wrinkled BaTiO3 Membranes
Authors: Liu Haixia , Yuan Haozhi , Dong Guohua , Wu Kai , Liu Gang , Sun Jun , Zhou Ziyao , Liu Ming
Published: March 2022

The wrinkled patterns may find potential applications in the areas that require tunable friction properties, such as flexible electronics, nanomechanical systems, and biomedical devices. However, the regulation of wrinkled patterns and the influence of friction property remain poorly understood, especially in the field of oxides. The epitaxial wrinkled BaTiO3 (BTO) membranes are prepared by the pulsed laser deposition and water‐dissolution process. The patterns, amplitude, and wavelength of the wrinkled BTO membranes are dependent on the thickness, pre‐stretched mechanical stress, and heat treatment. The friction properties of the wrinkled BTO membranes exhibit various anisotropic and periodic features due to the varying wrinkled patterns as applying different mechanical stress, including anisotropy with 180° angular periodicity, anisotropy with 360° angular periodicity, and isotropy, corresponding to the parallel, zigzag, and labyrinth patterns, respectively. Moreover, the heat process can further alter the magnitude of the friction property, showing a downward trend with increasing temperature. These results provide a better understanding of the friction properties of wrinkled patterns and pave a novel way to alter the friction properties for extensive applications.
A Durable Fluorine‐Free MOF‐Based Self‐Cleaning Superhydrophobic Cotton Fabric for Oil‐Water Separation
Authors: Long Zhiwen , Yuan Luhan , Chen Jianyu , Luo Lei , Shi Chu , Wu Caiqin , Qiao Hui , Wang Keliang
Published: March 2022

It is challenging to fabricate durable and fluorine‐free superhydrophobic surfaces through simple procedures. In this study, a novel fabrication method for constructing robust, wearable, and fluorine‐free superhydrophobic surfaces on cotton textiles has been achieved via in situ growth of zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) layers followed by polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) modification. The roughness created by the sheet‐like structure is optimized by tuning the mole ratio between 2‐methylimidazole and zinc nitrate during the in situ growth, while polydopamine (PDA) is introduced to improve the durability and stability. The resultant PDA/ZIF‐8/PDMS@cotton fabric exhibits a maximum water contact angle of 156.4° and a low sliding hysteresis angle of 3.8°. The as‐prepared superhydrophobic fabric also presents excellent durability and stability, and outstanding resistance against continuous sunlight exposure and various chemical reagents. In addition, the superhydrophobic surface possesses excellent self‐cleaning and anti‐fouling performance, as well as high separation efficiency >97% and reusability when serving as a filter during the oil‐water separation. The proposed approach and prepared superhydrophobic fabric strongly demonstrate the potential applications in oil‐water separation with a prolonged life cycle.
Current Progress and Scalable Approach toward the Synthesis of 2D Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Chen Jeffrey E. , Yang Zhen‐Jie , Koh Hoong Uei , Shen Jie , Cai Yichen , Yamauchi Yusuke , Yeh Li‐Hsien , Tung Vincent , Wu Kevin C.‐W.
Published: March 2022

2D metal–organic frameworks (MOF) have demonstrated exceptional properties and advantages for applications in catalysis, membrane separation, medicine, and energy harvesting and storage systems as compared to their bulk counterpart. Despite these promises, scalable synthesis of 2D MOFs remains a frontier challenge in chemistry, which limits its potential for commercialization. This review article provides a brief overview on different 2D MOF synthetic approaches followed by recent advances toward the scalable synthesis of 2D MOFs.
3D Printed Flexible Microscaled Porous Conductive Polymer Nanocomposites for Piezoresistive Sensing Applications
Authors: Abshirini Mohammad , Saha Mrinal C. , Altan M. Cengiz , Liu Yingtao
Published: March 2022

Porous conductive polymer nanocomposites (CPNCs) have attracted significant attention for developing flexible piezoresistive sensors. In this work, a novel approach is developed by combining direct ink writing (DIW) and solvent evaporation induced phase separation method to synthesize porous CPNC with strain sensing capabilities. CPNC is prepared by dispersing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) at various concentrations in polydimethylsiloxane polymer, followed by mixing with solvent and nonsolvent phases to achieve a homogenous solution. 3D structures with 100% infill density are deposited layer‐by‐layer via DIW, while a microscaled porous network is formed during the curing cycle. The phase separation is induced by solvent evaporation, followed by the nonsolvent phase, while the polymer experiences gelation during the heat treatment procedure. The microstructure of the printed samples is characterized utilizing a scanning electron microscope. The piezoresistive and mechanical behavior of porous CPNC is evaluated to identify the optimum formulation that provides the highest sensitivity and flexibility. The sensors made with 1 wt% CNT loading with the optimum printing conditions are then fully characterized to evaluate the durability and reliability of the 3D printed sample for long‐term piezoresistive applications. The porous CPNCs are successfully employed as a piezoresistive sensor to detect human motion.
Observation of Vibrational Phosphorescence Peaks at Room Temperature and Their Impacts on Triplet–Triplet Annihilation
Authors: Qiao Xianfeng , Liu Hui , Xiao Shu , Yuan Peisen , Yao Jingwen , Chen Yuwen , Lu Ping , Ma Dongge
Published: March 2022

Triplet–triplet annihilation (TTA) is a feasible approach for utilizing electrically generated triplet excitons in organic light‐emitting diodes. However, low TTA efficiency is often observed in solids. Owing to the optically inaccessible nature of triplets, the main loss routes of the TTA process remain unknown. In this work, three vibrational emission peaks of the first excited triplet state (T1) are identified in the sensitized room‐temperature phosphorescence of TTA molecules. These peaks provide strong evidence of the loss channels of TTA. It is found that the monomolecular recombination of T1 represents an energy‐loss channel that combines the transient photoluminescence of both upconversion fluorescence and phosphorescence. Moreover, the study demonstrates that low‐energy vibrational T1 acts as an energy‐loss channel with only slight contributions to TTA. This work presents constructive insights into the improvement of TTA efficiency in solid films.
Direct Synthesis of Alkylthioimidazoles: One‐Pot Three‐Component Cross‐Coupling Mediated by Paired Electrolysis
Authors: Yang Jianjing , Zeng Ting , Yan Kelu , Qin Zonghui , Wen Jiangwei
Published: March 2022

The direct synthesis of alkylthioimidazoles was initially accomplished via a one‐pot three‐component cross‐coupling mediated by a paired electrolysis strategy using non‐activated chloroalkane as the alkylating agent. This protocol provides a straightforward method for the preparation of alkylthioimidazoles by employing water as the co‐solvent at room temperature without any exogenous‐oxidants and metal catalysts. Inactivated primary, secondary, tertiary haloalkanes and various isothiocyanates can be compatible with the established conditions to obtain the corresponding products with a moderate yield. The mechanism of this one‐pot three‐component cross‐coupling reaction undergoes a radical process mediated by paired electrolysis.

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An Efficient Electrocatalyst Based on Vertically Aligned Heteroatom(B/N/P/O/S)‐Doped Graphene Array Integrated with FeCoNiP Nanoparticles for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Ren Xiaolin , Tian Yuchen , Shaik Firdoz , Yang Jine , Liu Rong , Guo Kaiming , Jiang Bin
Published: March 2022

Iron group metal phosphides (IMPs) are one of the most promising substitutes for non‐noble electrocatalysts in overall water splitting. In this work, an electrocatalyst system consisting of different vertically aligned heteroatom‐doped graphene arrays (X‐rGO, X = N, P, B, O, S) integrated with FeCoNiP nanoparticles (FeCoNiP@X‐rGO, X = N, P, B, O, S) is prepared for overall water splitting. The unique vertical structure and the synergistic effect between the P in P‐rGO and the P in FeCoNiP leads to the excellent electrocatalytic performance of FeCoNiP@P‐rGO by exhibiting low overpotentials (121 and 216 mV) at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 for hydrogen evolution reaction in 1 m KOH and 0.5 m H2SO4, respectively. As well as a low overpotential (354 mV) at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 for the oxygen evolution reaction in 1.0 m KOH. The FeCoNiP@P‐rGO electrocatalyst exhibits an outstanding durability toward overall water splitting in alkaline electrolytes, and excellent Faraday efficiency (about 92%) as well. This work provides an insight in proper tuning and the development of appropriate substrates for IMPs and other transition metal compounds toward cost‐effective and high efficiency electrocatalysts for water splitting reactions.
Modulating the Electronic Structure of FeCo Nanoparticles in N‐Doped Mesoporous Carbon for Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Zhu Guihua , Yang Haoyu , Jiang Ying , Sun Ziqi , Li Xiaopeng , Yang Jianping , Wang Haifeng , Zou Rujia , Jiang Wan , Qiu Pengpeng , Luo Wei
Published: March 2022

The development of highly efficient and stable oxygen reduction electrocatalysts and revealing their underlying catalytic mechanism are crucial in expanding the applications of metal‐air batteries. Herein, an excellent FeCo alloy nanoparticles (NPs)‐decorated N‐doped mesoporous carbon electrocatalyst (FeCo/NC) for oxygen reduction reaction, prepared through the pyrolysis of a dual metal containing metal‐organic framework composite scaffold is reported. Benefiting from the highly exposed bimetal active sites and the carefully designed structure, the Fe0.25Co0.75/NC‐800 catalyst exhibits a promising electrocatalytic activity and a superior durability, better than those of the state‐of‐the‐art catalysts. Suggested by both the X‐ray absorption fine structures and the density functional theoretical calculation, the outstanding catalytic performance is originated from the synergistic effects of the bimetallic loading in NC catalysts, where the electronic modulation of the Co active sites from the nearby Fe species leads to an optimized binding strength for reaction intermediates. This work demonstrates a class of highly active nonprecious metals electrocatalysts and provides valuable insights into investigating the structure–performance relationship of transition metal‐based alloy catalysts.
Sustainable Natural Bio‐Origin Materials for Future Flexible Devices
Authors: Lan Lingyi , Ping Jianfeng , Xiong Jiaqing , Ying Yibin
Published: March 2022

Flexible devices serve as important intelligent interfaces in various applications involving health monitoring, biomedical therapies, and human–machine interfacing. To address the concern of electronic waste caused by the increasing usage of electronic devices based on synthetic polymers, bio‐origin materials that possess environmental benignity as well as sustainability offer new opportunities for constructing flexible electronic devices with higher safety and environmental adaptivity. Herein, the bio‐source and unique molecular structures of various types of natural bio‐origin materials are briefly introduced. Their properties and processing technologies are systematically summarized. Then, the recent progress of these materials for constructing emerging intelligent flexible electronic devices including energy harvesters, energy storage devices, and sensors are introduced. Furthermore, the applications of these flexible electronic devices including biomedical implants, artificial e‐skin, and environmental monitoring are summarized. Finally, future challenges and prospects for developing high‐performance bio‐origin material‐based flexible devices are discussed. This review aims to provide a comprehensive and systematic summary of the latest advances in the natural bio‐origin material‐based flexible devices, which is expected to offer inspirations for exploitation of green flexible electronics, bridging the gap in future human–machine–environment interactions.
MOF‐derived Multi‐Shelled NiP2 Microspheres as High‐Performance Anode Materials for Sodium‐/Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Wang Ran , Yu Yonghao , Wang Xianjie , Gao Tangling , Lü Weiming , Yao Tai , Song Bo
Published: March 2022

Development of high capacity, high‐rate performance, long cycling life, and low‐cost electrode materials is highly desirable for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) and potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) to pave the way for their rapid commercialization. Herein, NiP2 nanoparticles loaded in multi‐shelled hollow N‐doped carbon microspheres (NiP2@MHNC) are successfully prepared. The built‐in heterogeneous interfaces between NiP2 and N‐doped carbon promote Na+/K+ diffusion; the robust C–N, N–Ni bonds stabilize the structure of electrodes and accelerate the electrons transfer; and the multi‐shelled hollow structure with large specific surface area effectively buffers the volume expansion to ensure cycling stability. Endowed with the aforementioned synergistic effect, the NiP2@MHNC exhibits remarkable enhancement in electrochemical performance with 346.6 mA h g−1 after 300 cycles for SIB and 142 mA h g−1 after 200 cycles for PIBs at 0.1 A g−1. Moreover, the synergistic effect on electrochemical reaction kinetics is systematically analyzed. Further, the mechanism of sodium storage for NiP2@MHNC is also investigated. The research experience and conclusions in this study based on synergistic effect of heterogeneous interfaces, N‐doped carbon, and multi‐shelled hollow structure open up a meaningful route to design other similar advanced composite electrode materials in energy storage and conversion field.
Documentation from trained medical students has a low rate of relative downcoding for emergency medicine encounters
Authors: Tillman David S. , Jewell Corlin M. , Hekman Dann J. , Nicholson Adam M. , Schnapp Benjamin H. , Lasarev Michael R. , Alexandridis Roxana , Hess Jamie M. , Westergaard Mary C.
Published: March 2022

Background

Since 2018, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines have allowed teaching physicians to bill for evaluation and management services based on medical student documentation. Limited previous data suggest that medical student documentation suffers from a high rate of downcoding relative to faculty documentation. We sought to compare the coding outcomes of documentation performed by medical students, and not edited by faculty, with documentation edited and submitted by faculty.

Methods

A total of 104 randomly selected notes from real patient encounters written by senior medical students were compared to the revised notes submitted by faculty. The note pairs were then split and reviewed by blinded professional coders and assigned level of service (LoS) codes 1–5 (corresponding to E&M CPT codes 99281–99285).

Results

We found that the LoS agreement between student and faculty note versions was 63%, with 23% of all student notes receiving lower LoS compared to faculty notes (downcoded). This was found to be similar to baseline variability in professional coder LoS designations.

Conclusions

Notes from medical students who have completed a focused documentation curriculum have less LoS downcoding than in previous reports.
The tumor‐to‐liver ratio of the standardized uptake value is a useful FDG‐PET/CT parameter for predicting malignant intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the pancreas
Authors: Utsunomiya Takeshi , Ogawa Kohei , Funamizu Naotake , Sakamoto Katsunori , Watanabe Jota , Otani Hiromi , Kawaguchi Naoto , Miyagawa Masao , Iwaki Hirotaka , Takada Yasutsugu
Published: March 2022

Background

The present study aimed to investigate the efficacy of positron emission tomography with 18Fluoro‐deoxyglucose (FDG‐PET/CT) for predicting malignant intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN).

Methods

The records of 88 patients pathologically diagnosed with IPMN after surgery at Ehime University Hospital and Ehime Prefectural Central Hospital from April 2009 to December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients’ characteristics, blood chemistry, and imaging examinations were evaluated as potential predictors of malignant IPMN. Of the PET/CT results, the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of the tumor, the tumor‐to‐blood pool ratio of the SUV (TBR), and the tumor‐to‐liver ratio of the SUV (TLR) were compared.

Results

On pathology, the diagnosis was adenoma (IPMA) in 40 patients, high‐grade dysplasia (HGD) in 26 patients, and carcinoma (IPMC) in 22 patients. HGD and IPMC were defined as malignant IPMN. On multivariate analyses, TLR ≥ 1.3 and high‐risk stigmata were independent predictors of malignant IPMN (P = .001 and P = .007, respectively). When both HRS and TLR ≥ 1.3 were present, the positive predictive value for malignancy was 88.2%. Furthermore, TLR was significantly higher for patients with IPMC than with HGD (P = .039).

Conclusion

TLR can be a useful predictor for differentiating benign from malignant IPMN and may be associated with postoperative outcomes.
Multioperation Mode Ferroelectric Channel Devices for Memory and Computation
Authors: Sun Yibo , Wang Shuiyuan , Chen Xiaozhang , Zhang Zhenhan , Zhou Peng
Published: March 2022

The traditional von Neumann architecture separates memory from the central processing unit (CPU), resulting in aggravated data transfer bottlenecks between the CPU and memory during a data volume surge. Emerging technologies, such as in‐memory computing (IMC), provide a new way to overcome the limitations due to the separation of memory and computation. However, existing IMC efforts are generally limited to a single (gate‐control or drain‐control) mode of operation to achieve functionality. Herein, a 2D ferroelectric channel device that enables the feasibility of multioperation modes is proposed. In addition, rich functionalities, such as logic, nonvolatile memory, and neuromimetic plasticity modulation, by switching the operating modes are realized. A device that facilitates multimodal operations and a promising technical solution for further development of burgeoning computing architecture is provided.
Synthesis of Triazabenzo[a]pyrenes and Their Photophysical, Acid‐Responsive, and Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Masani Yasufumi , Omura Yuta , Tachi Yoshimitsu , Kozaki Masatoshi
Published: March 2022

A series of triazabenzo[a]pyrenes comprising a cata‐condensed pyridine ring and 4,10‐diazapyrene framework were synthesized from commercially available materials in the following three steps: palladium‐catalyzed direct C−H arylation, nucleophilic addition of Grignard reagents to cyano groups, and copper‐catalyzed oxidative C−N bond formation. The triazabenzo[a]pyrenes showed superior electron‐accepting properties and narrower HOMO‐LUMO energy gaps compared to the corresponding 4,10‐diazapyrene derivative because of the condensation of an electron‐deficient pyridine ring. The photophysical, acid‐responsive, and electrochemical properties of triazabenzo[a]pyrenes depend on the position of the nitrogen atom in the cata‐condensed pyridine ring. Density functional theory calculations revel that the condensation of a pyridine ring leads to a lowering of the LUMO energy level thereby enhancing the electron‐accepting properties.
Color preference and manual laterality in the emperor tamarin (Saguinus imperator)
Authors: Spiezio Caterina , Pugassi Marta , Agrillo Christian , Regaiolli Barbara
Published: March 2022

The current research focuses on color preference between red and green stimuli and manual laterality in the emperor tamarin (Saguinus imperator). Trichromacy in primates has been related to a foraging advantage allowing frugivore primates to distinguish ripe from unripe fruits as well to socio‐sexual communication, as trichromats would be advantaged in recognizing social and sexual signals. As warm colors can affect the emotive state of the subjects, leading to the activation of one hemisphere over the other (e.g., right hemisphere), this could lead to behavioral lateralization. Thus, studying of hand preference may be relevant when testing color preference. Nine adult zoo emperor tamarins were involved and the study aimed to investigate the preference between red, green, and white cones as well as manual laterality. Tamarins were provided with pairs of red‐green, red‐white, and green‐white combinations of cones. Ten 30‐min sessions per combination were carried out and data on the interaction with one of the two cones of each apparatus were collected to assess subjects' color preference. We also recorded the hand used by each subject during the interaction with cones of different colors and the position of the apparatus in respect to the tamarin. We found no preferences for colored versus white cones. Similarly, we reported no group‐level preferences within different color combinations, whereas individual‐level preferences were found when considering all choices. Finally, we found that red cones elicited a left‐hand preference, suggesting a right‐hemisphere involvement in the presence of red cones. Although we do not have genetic data on trichromat and dichromat females, the tendency to use the left hand when interacting with red stimuli provides further evidence that warm colors can influence the emotive state of the perceiver, affecting their manual lateralization.
Direct Affinity Purification of Long‐Acting PASylated Proteins with Therapeutic Potential Using L‐Prolinamide for Mild Elution
Authors: Schilz Jonas , Clement Charlotte , Greiner Franziska , Skerra Arne
Published: March 2022

Both insufficient plasma half‐life (circulation for only few hours or less) and laborious downstream purification can be bottleneck for biological drug development. We report a novel strategy for the efficient and gentle affinity purification of pharmacologically relevant proteins modified by PASylation for prolonged action in vivo. We previously described antibodies specific for Pro/Ala‐rich sequences (PAS) covering a range of binding characteristics. Our present approach relies on a chromatography matrix functionalized with a low‐affinity PAS‐specific antibody Fab fragment for specific adsorption of the PASylated protein from a macromolecular mixture. With the complete absence of hydrophobic/aromatic or ionic groups in the PAS sequence epitope, binding is mediated by Van der Waals contacts and distinct hydrogen bonds only. Surprisingly, selective competitive elution is achieved by application of the highly soluble and biologically inactive imino acid derivative L‐prolinamide. Based on the specific but strongly dynamic biomolecular interaction, our procedure allows the direct one‐step purification of PASylated proteins from a cell extract or culture supernatant while avoiding harsh elution conditions as they are often needed for conventional affinity chromatography.
Electronic Structure Changes of an Aromatic Amine Photoacid along the Förster Cycle
Authors: Eckert Sebastian , Winghart Marc‐Oliver , Kleine Carlo , Banerjee Ambar , Ekimova Maria , Ludwig Jan , Harich Jessica , Fondell Mattis , Mitzner Rolf , Pines Ehud , Huse Nils , Wernet Philippe , Odelius Michael , Nibbering Erik T. J.
Published: March 2022

Photoacids show a strong increase in acidity in the first electronic excited state, enabling real‐time studies of proton transfer in acid‐base reactions, proton transport in energy storage devices and biomolecular sensor protein systems. Several explanations have been proposed for what determines photoacidity, ranging from variations in solvation free energy to changes in electronic structure occurring along the four stages of the Förster cycle. Here we use picosecond nitrogen K‐edge spectroscopy to monitor the electronic structure changes of the proton donating group in a protonated aromatic amine photoacid in solution upon photoexcitation and subsequent proton transfer dynamics. Probing core‐to‐valence transitions locally at the amine functional group and with orbital specificity, we clearly reveal pronounced electronic structure, dipole moment and energetic changes on the conjugate photobase side. This result paves the way for a detailed electronic structural characterization of the photoacidity phenomenon.
Fruit ripeness sensors based on poly(lactic acid)/polyaniline solution blow‐spun fibrous membranes
Authors: Silva Vinícius D. , Santos Adillys M. C. , Oliveira Juliano E. , Medeiros Eliton S.
Published: March 2022

Real‐time ripening monitoring stands as an attractive way to guarantee quality control and prediction of shelf life during transport and prolonged storage of fruits and vegetables. Herein, we investigate the use of poly(lactic acid)/polyaniline (PLA/PANI) solution blow‐spun nanofibrous membranes as gas sensors for fruit ripening monitoring. PLA/PANI with different blend ratios was prepared by dissolving PANI in dichloroethane (DCE) for further mixing with PLA and spinning onto interdigitated microelectrode (IME). The ripening process of four different fruits (apple, orange, banana, and cashew peduncle), climacteric, and non‐climacteric fruits, was assessed over 72 h by real‐time monitoring changes in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released during fruit ripening. Since adsorption of VOCs onto sensor surface causes changes in electrical response, which is directly related to the fruit ripening process, PANI addition was essential to monitor the ripening. However, higher concentrations (2% PANI in PLA) impair sensor conductivity and sensitivity because of the agglomeration of conductive polymer particles, which directly influences the sensitivity and the average fiber diameter. One of the main findings, here, was the clear distinction between different patterns of monitoring curves according to the category of the analyzed fruit (climacteric or non‐climacteric).
Influence of sericin‐g‐PLA as an organic nucleating agent for preparing biodegradable blend films
Authors: Boonpavanitchakul Kanittha , Kangwansupamonkon Wiyong , Pimpha Nuttaporn , Magaraphan Rathanawan
Published: March 2022

Here for the first time, this work indicated that the sericin‐g‐polylactide (SS‐g‐PLA) copolymer can be potentially used as an organic nucleating agent to improve the crystallinity and biodegradability of polylactide (PLA). The properties of blended films containing SS‐g‐PLA mixed with virgin PLA polymer were highly evaluated. The water vapor permeability (WVP), thermal behavior, dynamic mechanical properties, crystal structure, and biodegradability of the PLA/SS‐g‐PLA‐blended films were characterized and compared with a commercial PLA film. The results clearly indicated that the incorporation of SS‐g‐PLA copolymer in the PLA matrix had a significant effect on the properties of PLA/SS‐g‐PLA‐blended films. The WVP values of PLA/SS‐g‐PLA‐blended films were lower than that of commercial PLA film by about 2–3 g·mm/m2·day·atm, and their thermal behaviors (e.g. Tg, Tcc, and Tm) were also decreased. Adding SS‐g‐PLA can increase the crystallinity of PLA. The degree of crystallinity (%χc) of the series of PLA/SS‐g‐PLA‐blended films was increased to about 2–4 times that of the commercial PLA film (3%). Interestingly, biodegradation results revealed that the percent of biodegradability of PLA/SS‐g‐PLA‐blended film was 80% in 43 days under a compost environmental temperature of 58 ± 2°C. This evidence indicated that the SS‐g‐PLA copolymer can improve the biodegradability of PLA.
Synergistic toughening of polypropylene by thermoplastic starch acetate andSEBS‐MAH
Authors: Chen Youxu , Xu Xiaoyu , Hu Yuexin , Han Yuanyuan , Zhao Fengyang , Yan Nan , Jiang Wei , Zhao Guiyan
Published: March 2022

The plasticized starch exhibits flexible properties, similar to that of elastomer. In this paper, thermoplastic starch acetate (TPAS) and maleic anhydride grafted poly[styrene‐b‐(ethylene‐co‐butylene)‐b‐styrene] (SEBS‐MAH) were used to toughen polypropylene (PP) through melt blending. It is found TPAS and SEBS‐MAH have a synergistic toughening effect on PP, especially the notched impact strength of PP/TPAS/SEBS‐MAH (70/15/15) blend is as high as 83.4 kJ/m2, but only 7.2 kJ/m2of that for PP/TPAS/SEBS (70/15/15) blend. The structure‐property relationship of the PP/TPAS/SEBS‐MAH blends was investigated. Compared with PP/TPAS/SEBS (70/15/15) blend, the TPAS domains are dispersed homogeneously in the PP/TPAS/SEBS‐MAH (70/15/15) blend with the domain size of TPAS less than 0.2 μm. The incorporation of SEBS‐MAH not only improves the compatibility between PP and TPAS but also facilitates the formation of a core‐shell structure with TPAS as the core and SEBS‐MAH as the shell. Thus formed core‐shell particles play an important role in toughening PP. The spreading coefficient of the multiphase blend reveals that only when the SEBS‐MAH content is higher than TPAS, the core‐shell structure can be formed. Otherwise, TPAS and SEBS‐MAH will disperse separately and the toughness will not be improved. This work provides a new insight into polymer toughening with TPAS.