bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shareholder activism: Further evidence on the relationship between activists’ demands and shareholder value creation
Authors: Hoss Niklas , Eichner Korbinian
Published: May 2023

This research article analyses activist hedge fund campaigns and studies both shareholder value effects around the announcement of a campaign and the value creation over the entire campaign period. Further, we analyze observable returns by campaign objectives. We examine a sample of 197 international activism campaigns, initiated between 2014 and 2019. Significant Cumulative Average Abnormal Returns (CAARs) can be observed in both the short‐term and the entire engagement period event windows. The results from activism differ by an activist investor's objectives and demands. CAARs related to elimination of a general undervaluation, a maximization of shareholder value, and an adjustment of a target firm's capital structure are the highest in our sample. We do not find empirical evidence that board representation or proxy fights increase the CAARs of activist investors’ campaigns. Our study adds to the existing literature by analyzing abnormal returns not only around the announcement of the campaign but also over the entire campaign. We are of the opinion that relying exclusively on short‐term returns poses significant limitations to inferences on shareholder value from activism and therefore applying a longer‐term observation period is warranted.
Direct Oral Anticoagulation Versus Warfarin in Left Ventricular Thrombus: Pooled Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Sahlén Anders Olof , Jiang Haowen , Lau Yee How , Cuenza Lucky , Cader F. Aaysha , Al‐Omary Mohammed , Surunchupakorn Purich , Ho Ka Hei , Sung Jonathan , Lee Derek , Honda Satoshi , Tan Wei Chieh Jack , Yap Jonathan
Published: May 2023

Patients with impaired left ventricular (LV) function can develop LV thrombus, a potentially life‐threatening condition due to risk of stroke and embolization. Conventional treatment with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs; e.g., warfarin) puts patients at risk of bleeding, and the use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) appears promising, although data are scant. We searched the published English language literature for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing DOACs with VKAs in LV thrombus. End points were failure to resolve, thromboembolic events (stroke, embolism), bleeding, or any adverse event (composite of thromboembolism or bleeding), or all‐cause death. Data were pooled and analyzed in hierarchical Bayesian models. In three eligible RCTs, 141 patients were studied during an average of 4.6 months (53.8 patient‐years; n = 71 assigned to DOAC, n = 70 assigned to VKA). A similar number of patients in each treatment arm demonstrated failure to resolve (DOAC: 14/71 vs. VKA: 15/70) and death events (3/71 vs. 4/70). However, patients on DOACs suffered fewer strokes/thromboembolic events (1/71 vs. 7/70; log odds ratio [OR], −2.02 [95% credible interval (CI95), −4.53 to −0.31]) and fewer bleeding events (2/71 vs. 9/70; log OR, −1.62 [CI95, −3.43 to −0.26]), leading to fewer patients on DOACs with any adverse event versus VKAs (3/71 vs. 16/70; log OR, −1.93 [CI95, −3.33 to −0.75]). In conclusion, pooled analysis of RCT data favors DOACs over VKAs in patients with LV thrombus in terms of both efficacy and safety.
The miR‐126‐5p and miR‐212‐3p in the extracellular vesicles activate monocytes in the early stage of radiation‐induced vascular inflammation implicated in atherosclerosis
Authors: Choi You Yeon , Kim Areumnuri , Lee Younghyun , Lee Yang Hee , Park Mineon , Shin Eunguk , Park Sunhoo , Youn BuHyun , Seong Ki Moon
Published: May 2023

People exposed to radiation in cancer therapy and nuclear accidents are at increased risk of cardiovascular outcomes in long‐term survivors. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in radiation‐induced endothelial dysfunction, but their role in the early stage of vascular inflammation after radiation exposure remains to be fully understood. Herein, we demonstrate that endothelial cell‐derived EVs containing miRNAs initiate monocyte activation in radiation‐induced vascular inflammation. In vitro co‐culture and in vivo experimental data showed that endothelial EVs can be sensitively increased by radiation exposure in a dose‐dependent manner, and stimulate monocytes releasing monocytic EVs and adhesion to endothelial cells together with an increase in the expression of genes encoding specific ligands for cell‐cell interaction. Small RNA sequencing and transfection using mimics and inhibitors explained that miR‐126‐5p and miR‐212‐3p enriched in endothelial EVs initiate vascular inflammation by monocyte activation after radiation exposure. Moreover, miR‐126‐5p could be detected in the circulating endothelial EVs of radiation‐induced atherosclerosis model mice, which was found to be tightly correlated with the atherogenic index of plasma. In summary, our study showed that miR‐126‐5p and miR‐212‐3p present in the endothelial EVs mediate the inflammatory signals to activate monocytes in radiation‐induced vascular injury. A better understanding of the circulating endothelial EVs content can promote their use as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for atherosclerosis after radiation exposure.
Distribution of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia is closely associated with HPV status and uterine position
Authors: Tamura Daisuke , Sako Wataru , Watanabe Rina , Shitara Akihiro , Saito Fumiko , Yamauchi Misa , Sugita Akihiro , Karube Akihiro
Published: May 2023

Although cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) lesions are considered to be not randomly distributed across the cervix, but predominantly in the anterior wall, the clinicopathological etiology remains unknown. Herein, we aimed to elucidate the relationship between quantitatively measured area of CIN2/3 and cervical cancer associated factors by retrospective cohort study. We analyzed 235 consecutive therapeutic conization specimens dissected as a single intact section to determine CIN2/3 area and its correlation with both clinical risk factors including human papillomavirus (HPV) status (single or multiple infection) and uterine position defined by transvaginal ultrasound. Cervical wall was classified into three groups: anterior: (11, 12, 1, and 2 o'clock), posterior (5, 6, 7, and 8 o'clock) and lateral (3, 4, 9, and 10 o'clock). Multiple regression revealed that younger age and HPV16 status were significantly correlated with CIN2/3 area (p = 0.0224 and p = 0.0075, respectively). The Jonckheere‐Terpstra test showed a significant trend: CIN2/3 area was highest in the single HPV16 group, followed by the multiple HPV16 group and the non‐HPV16 group (p < 0.0001). CIN2/3 area in the anterior wall was statistically significantly larger than the posterior and lateral wall (p = 0.0059 and p = 0.0107, respectively). CIN2/3 area in the anterior wall was significantly greater with anteversion‐anteflexion than retroversion‐retroflexion (p = 0.0485), whereas CIN2/3 area in the posterior wall was significantly larger with retroversion‐retroflexion than anteversion‐anteflexion (p = 0.0394). In conclusion, the topographical distribution of CIN2/3 area is closely associated with patient age, high‐risk HPV status, especially single HPV16 infection and uterine position.
A novel film based on gluten, pectin, and polyphenols and its potential application in high‐fat food
Authors: Xu Qian‐Da , Jing Zan , He Qiang , Zeng Wei‐Cai
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

A novel film based on some natural ingredients (wheat gluten, pectin, and polyphenols) was used to improve the quality and storage stability of high‐fat food due to their good sustainable, mechanical, and edible properties.

RESULTS

With the addition of polyphenols from Cedrus deodara (in the form of pine‐needle extract (PNE)), the physicochemical properties (thickness, moisture content, and color), mechanical properties (tensile strength and elongation), barrier properties (water vapor, oil, and oxygen permeability, transmittance), and thermal stability of the composite film were improved. According to the analysis of infrared spectroscopy and molecular docking, the main compounds of PNE interacted with wheat gluten by hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic forces to form a compact and stable structure. In addition, the composite film showed a remarkable antioxidant capability to scavenge free radicals, and the film matrix could effectively protect the antioxidant activity of PNE. Furthermore, using cured meat as a model, the composite film exhibited a fine packaging performance in high‐fat food during storage, which could obviously inhibit the excessive oxidation of fat and protein of cured meat and was beneficial in forming its special flavor.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the composite film possessed good properties and had potential for packing of high‐fat foods, which could improve the quality and safety of food during processing and storage. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Use of soybean oil to modulate the gel properties of soybean protein isolation‐wheat gluten composite with or without CaCl2
Authors: Lian Wentao , WangFeng Qiujie , Zhang Haojia , Zhu Ying , Qu Min , Sun Bingyu , Huang Yuyang , Zhu Xiuqing
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Plant protein is widely used in the study of animal protein substitutes and healthy sustainable products. The gel properties are crucial for the production of plant protein foods. Therefore, the present study investigated the use of soybean oil to modulate the gel properties of soybean protein isolation‐wheat gluten composite with or without CaCl2.

RESULTS

Oil droplets filled protein network pores under the addition of soybean oil (1–2%). This resulted in an enhanced gel hardness and water holding capacity. Further addition of soybean oil (3–4%), oil droplets and some protein–oil compounds increased the distance between the protein molecule chain. The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and intermolecular interaction also showed that the disulfide bond and β‐sheet ratio decreased in the gel system, which damaged the overall structure of the gel network. Compared with the addition of 0 m CaCl2, salt ion reduced the electrostatic repulsion between proteins, and local protein cross‐linking was more intense at 0.005 m CaCl2 concentration. In the present study, structural properties and rheological analysis showed that the overall strength of the gel was weakened after the addition of CaCl2.

CONCLUSION

The presence of appropriate amount of soybean oil can fill the gel pores and improve the texture properties and network structure of soy protein isolate‐wheat gluten (SPI‐WG) composite gel. Excessive soybean oil may hinder protein–protein interaction and adversely affect protein gel. In addition, the presence or absence of CaCl2 significantly affected the gelling properties of SPI‐WG composite protein gels. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Responses of biogenic dimethylated sulfur compounds to environmental changes in the northwestern Pacific continental sea
Authors: Ma Qian‐Yao , Yang Gui‐Peng
Published: May 2023

Continental seas are facing rapid environmental shifts, but how biogenic dimethylated sulfur compounds, including dimethylsulfide (DMS), dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), will respond to these environmental changes remains poorly understood. Here we investigated the effects of nutrient input, ocean acidification, and dust deposition on the phytoplankton community and organic sulfur cycle in the East China Sea. Nutrient input promoted phytoplankton growth and increased the concentrations of DMS, DMSP, and DMSO. With sufficient nutrients, especially nitrate, the dissolved DMSP degradation was inhibited, and the bacterial DMSP‐cleavage pathway (inferred by dddP gene abundance) was enhanced, causing increased DMS production. The sensitivity of phytoplankton biomass and DMS to ocean acidification varied with different initial nutrient levels, demonstrating insensitivity under eutrophic conditions and negative responses under nutrient‐limited conditions. The ocean acidification promoted the dissolved DMSP degradation and bacterial DMSP‐demethylation pathway (inferred by dmdA gene abundance) and weakened the DMS production, causing the decreases of DMS and DMSP. The nutrient from dust deposition (2 mg L−1) was identified as the key factor in enhancing phytoplankton biomass and the organic sulfur compounds concentrations, but trace metals input from dust deposition had no significant effect. This study has identified environmental drivers and suppressors of phytoplankton and biogenic dimethylated sulfur compounds in a changing marine environment, which will enable the effective modeling of future climate change.
Biogeochemical‐Argo floats show that chlorophyll increases before carbon in the high‐latitude Southern Ocean spring bloom
Authors: Vives Clara R. , Schallenberg Christina , Strutton Peter G. , Boyd Philip W.
Published: May 2023

In the Southern Ocean, phytoplankton blooms are an annually recurring prominent feature that play a significant role in ocean CO2 uptake. Understanding the timing of the phytoplankton bloom is necessary to provide insights into the underlying physiological drivers, for the study of ecosystem dynamics and consequent patterns in downward carbon export. Previous studies have used chlorophyll (chl) and particulate organic carbon, from either satellites or biogeochemical‐Argo (BGC‐Argo) floats, to investigate bloom phenology, but provide inconsistent findings regarding bloom timing. Here, we compare bloom dynamics based on three diagnostics from 7114 BGC‐Argo float profiles, south of 60°S. Bloom onset consistently occurs earlier when calculated using chl than when based on phytoplankton carbon or nitrate uptake, and the decoupling increases with latitude. This suggests that phytoplankton synthesize increased chl to acclimate to low‐light conditions, before increasing their biomass. These results highlight the importance of considering phytoplankton physiology when choosing proxies for phytoplankton growth.
Nonlinear Plasmonic Meta‐Crystals with Coupling Induced Symmetry Breaking
Authors: Zhang Xuecai , Deng Junhong , Tang Yutao , Li Yang , Zhang Guanqing , Hu Zixian , Li Guixin
Published: May 2023

Symmetry plays an important role in determining the amplitude and polarizations of nonlinear optical waves occurring in conventional crystals. While the symmetry of crystals is limited by the materials’ synthesis process, it can be easily controlled in photonic meta‐crystals. Both the linear and nonlinear optical properties of the meta‐crystals can be judiciously tailored by the local symmetry of the meta‐atoms. Here, it is demonstrated that the symmetry of the nonlinear meta‐crystals can be artificially manipulated by introducing the coupling between adjacent plasmonic meta‐atoms. By assembling the two groups of plasmonic meta‐atoms with inversion symmetry into a hexagonal boron nitride‐like lattice, the global inversion symmetry of the metasurface is broken. Second harmonic generations due to the coupling‐induced symmetry breaking are experimentally observed from the meta‐crystals. It is also found that the polarization of the second harmonic waves obey certain symmetry selection rules. The proposed methodology, which takes advantage of the coupling effects and the intrinsic nonlinearity of the plasmonic meta‐atoms, can be used to develop a variety of nonlinear nanophotonic devices with multiple functionalities.
Mapping the progress in natural fiber reinforced composites: Preparation, mechanical properties, and applications
Authors: Dev Barshan , Rahman Ashikur , Alam Rubel , Repon Reazuddin , Nawab Yasir
Published: May 2023

Exploration of natural fiber‐reinforced polymer composites (NFRPCs) in cutting‐edge applications is due to phenomenal properties, such as lightweight, low‐cost, and environmental aspects. NFs can effectively compete to the synthetic fibers in terms of mechanical, thermal and acoustic properties. As a result, the invention and innovation of natural fiber (NF) composites for commercial purposes has increased dramatically in recent years to meet the growing demand of the industrial sectors. Materials are the cornerstone of any manufacturing industry. NFRPCs are a good alternative to conventional materials because of their relatively high mechanical properties and lower production energy. NFs decrease the cost of the material by 5% while reducing the weight of the composite by 10% and the manufacturing energy by 80%. A lot of work has been done to enhance NFRPCs' mechanical properties to overcome their drawbacks, such as poor fiber‐to‐matrix adhesion, thermal stability, and moisture absorption. However, for better mechanical properties, it is crucial to understand the fibers' embedded manufacturing technique and the appropriate fiber weight percentage with appropriate matrix. This review article discusses composites made of NFs providing a comprehensive and up‐to‐date overview of the field of NFRPCs, focusing on recent advancements in preparation techniques, improvements in mechanical properties such as tensile, flexural and impact strength of NFRPCs with various fiber types, fiber weight ratio, fiber‐to‐matrix ratio for appropriate engineering applications, and elucidating future research directions by analyzing trends and challenges in the field. The aim of this review article is to provide a deep evaluation of the progress made in the field of NFRPCs, with the ultimate goal of advancing knowledge and understanding of this field.
A proteomic signature and potential pharmacological opportunities in the adaptive resistance to MEK and PI3K kinase inhibition in pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Aguilar‐Valdés Alain , González‐Vela Francisco , Sánchez‐Vidal Hilda , Martínez‐Aguilar Juan
Published: May 2023

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal cancer types and is becoming a leading cause of cancer‐related deaths. The limited benefit offered by chemotherapy agents has propelled the search for alternative approaches that target specific molecular drivers of cancer growth and progression. Mutant KRas and effector pathways Raf/MEK/ERK and PI3K/Akt are key players in pancreatic cancer; however, preclinical studies have shown adaptive tumour response to combined MEK and PI3K kinase inhibition leading to treatment resistance. There is a critical unmet need to decipher the molecular basis underlying adaptation to this targeted approach. Here, we aimed to identify common protein expression alterations associated with adaptive resistance in KRas‐mutant pancreatic cancer cells, and test if it can be overcome by selected already available small molecule drugs. We found a group of 14 proteins with common expression change in resistant cells, including KRas, caveolin‐1, filamin‐a, eplin, IGF2R and cytokeratins CK‐8, ‐18 and ‐19. Notably, several proteins have previously been observed in pancreatic cancer cells with intrinsic resistance to the combined kinase inhibition treatment, suggesting a proteomic signature. We also found that resistant cells are sensitive to small molecule drugs ERK inhibitor GDC‐0994, S6K1 inhibitor DG2 and statins.
Telerehabilitation service impact on physical function and adherence compared to face‐to‐face rehabilitation in patients with stroke: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sharififar Sharareh , Ghasemi Hanieh , Geis Carolyn , Azari Hassan , Adkins Lauren , Speight Bailey , Vincent Heather K.
Published: May 2023

Objectives

The purposes of this systematic review and meta‐analysis were to (1) appraise the available evidence of telerehabilitation program effects on functional outcomes, adherence, and patient satisfaction compared to face‐to‐face programs after stroke; and (2) provide direction for future outcome measure selection and development for clinical research purposes.

Type

Systematic review and meta analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Literature survey

MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Proquest Theses and Dissertations, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), and Clinicaltrials.gov were searched for studies published in English from 1964 to the end of April 2022.

Methodology

A total of 6450 studies were identified, 13 were included in the systematic review, and 10 with at least 3 reported similar outcomes were included the meta‐analysis. Methodological quality of results was evaluated using the PEDro checklist.

Synthesis

Telerehabilitation demonstrated equivalency in outcomes across several domains and was favored compared to conventional face to face alone or when paired with semisupervised physical therapy on Wolf Motor Function performance score (mean difference [MD] 1.69 points, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.21–3.17) and time score (MD 2.07 seconds, 95% CI −4.04 to −0.10, Q test = 30.27, p < .001, I2 = 93%), and Functional Mobility Assessment in the upper extremities (MD 3.32 points, 95% CI 0.90–5.74, Q test = 5.60, p = .23, I2 = 29% alone or when paired with semisupervised physical therapy). The Barthel Index participation measures of function demonstrated improvement (MD 4.18 points, 95% CI, 1.79–6.57, Q test = 3.56, p = .31, I2 = 16%). Over half of summarized study ratings were determined to be of good to excellent quality (PEDro score 6.6 ± 2.3 points). Adherence varied in available studies from 75%–100%. Satisfaction levels of telerehabilitation were highly variable.

Conclusions

Telerehabilitation can improve functional outcomes and promote therapy adherence after stroke. Therapy protocols and functional assessments need substantial refinement and standardization to improve interpretation and clinical outcomes.
Emerging Weyl Semimetal States in Ternary TaPxAs1−x Alloys: Insights from Electronic and Topological Analysis
Authors: Nourizadeh Samira Sadat , Vaez Aminollah , Vashaee Daryoosh
Published: May 2023

This study presents a thorough analysis of the electronic structures of the TaPxAs1−x series of compounds, which are of significant interest due to their potential as topological materials. Using a combination of first principles and Wannier‐based tight‐binding methods, this study investigates both the bulk and surface electronic structures of the compounds for varying compositions (x = 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1), with a focus on their topological properties. By using chirality analysis, (111) surface electronic structure analysis, and surface Fermi arcs analysis, it is established that the TaPxAs1−x compounds exhibit topologically nontrivial behavior, characterized as Weyl semimetals (WSMs). The effect of spin–orbit coupling (SOC) on the topological properties of the compounds is further studied. In the absence of SOC, the compounds exhibit linearly dispersive fourfold degenerate points in the first Brillouin zone (FBZ) resembling Dirac semimetals. However, the introduction of SOC induces a phase transition to WSM states, with the number and position of Weyl points (WPs) varying depending on the composition of the alloy. For example, TaP has 12 WPs in the FBZ. The findings provide novel insights into the electronic properties of TaPxAs1−x compounds and their potential implications for the development of topological materials for various technological applications.
Stability analysis and fault detection filter design for discrete‐time switched systems with all modes unstable
Authors: Huang Jinjie , Hao Xianzhi , Yang Jung‐Min
Published: May 2023

In this article, we investigate the stabilization and fault detection problem for discrete‐time switched systems with all modes unstable. A set of mode‐dependent fault detection filters are designed with respect to each subsystem and combined with the switched system into an augmented switched system. Sufficient conditions for both guaranteeing globally uniformly asymptotically stable (GUAS) and performance of the augmented switched system are derived by utilizing the discretized Lyapunov function technique and dwell time (DT) switching strategy. A novel pair of the residual evaluation function and threshold function are also provided for improving the sensitivity and practicability of fault detection logic. Numerical experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed
method.
Fluorogenic Phenothiazine‐Derivative as Radical Sensors
Authors: Desoky Mohamed M. H.
Published: May 2023

This study investigates the use of 10‐(4‐butoxyphenyl)‐10H‐phenothiazine (PTZ), a phenothiazine‐based molecule, for detecting chloroform and other chlorinated hydrocarbons (CHCs). Upon exposure to these compounds to the phenothiazine‐dervitive in presence light, a significant change in emission occurs, enabling naked‐eye detection. The visual detection range of this phenothiazine derivative extends down to concentrations as low as 5 ppm. We demonstrate the one‐time use of thin‐layer chromatography paper (TLC) sensors and glass‐based sensors for on‐site detection of chlorinated hydrocarbons using a light source such as sunlight, UV‐lamp, or a solar box. Our findings suggest that this phenothiazine‐derivative has potential as a simple, low‐cost, and effective sensing platform for chlorinated solvents, with practical applications in environmental monitoring and industrial safety. Furthermore, our results provide insights into the development of molecular sensors for detecting chlorinated hydrocarbons.
An Insight into the Asymmetric Resolution of 1‐Aminoindane Derivatives
Authors: Akıncıoğlu Akın , Akbaba Yusuf , Polat Köse Leyla , Göksu Süleyman
Published: May 2023

Compounds with 1‐aminoindane motif exhibit vital biological activities in the central nervous system. Therefore, it is very important to synthesize new compounds with this moiety and to obtain them in high enantiopurity. In this study, novel substituted 1‐aminoindane derivatives were synthesized, and their asymmetric resolutions were carried out. Accordingly, the reduction of 1‐indanones with NaBH4, conversion of alcohols to azides via an alternative Mitsunobu reaction followed by reduction of azides afforded (±)‐1‐aminoindane hydrochloride or hydrobromide salts. Amine salts were converted into their free amines by using excess amount of Et3N and then in situ occurred free (±)‐amines were reacted with (R)‐O‐acetylmandeloyl chloride to give diastereomeric mixtures. The crystallization of the diastereomeric mixtures followed by hydrolysis yielded the corresponding asymmetric amines with high enantio‐purity.
A Facile Dual‐Emission Ratiometric Carbon‐Dot Fluorescent Probe and Its Application in Portable Chemical Sensors and Water Quality Analysis
Authors: Wu Weijun , Mao Jie , Lu Yifei , Wang Sui
Published: May 2023

Based on the dual signal of double‐emitting carbon quantum dots (G‐CDs), a ratiometric fluorescence sensor is established to realize the analysis and detection of Fe3+in real samples. When the excitation wavelength is 360 nm and 480 nm, the double emission fluorescence peaks are located at the wavelengths of 477 nm and 523 nm. The former is the fluorescence response signal, and the latter is the fluorescence background signal. The semi‐quantitative analysis of Fe3+was achieved based on the linear relationship between the ratio F477/F523of the two signals and the Fe3+concentration. The linear range of this method is 0.015–120 μM, and the limit of detection (LOD, S/N=3) is 5 nM. Meanwhile, the naked‐eye visual detection of Fe3+can be realized according to the fluorescence color of the probe. The probe exhibits excellent anti‐interference, selectivity and repeatability, and this method can be applied to the detection of Fe3+in actual samples.
Dictating Packing and Interactions of Perylene Bisimides within Cyclophane Structures in the Solid State
Authors: Solymosi Iris , Neiß Christian , Maid Harald , Hampel Frank , Solymosi Thomas , Görling Andreas , Hirsch Andreas , Pérez‐Ojeda M. Eugenia
Published: May 2023

Crystal packing and chromophore communication are key parameters for the performance and functionality of many applications related to light‐energy harvesting and conversion. However, obtaining crystals of flexible and very soluble structures is troublesome. Nevertheless, a crystal structure of a highly flexible perylene‐3,4 : 9,10‐tetracarboxylic acid bisimide (PBI) cyclophane was obtained and analysed to compare the chromophore arrangement in the solid state with theconfiguration in solution as well as with calculated structures. The crystal structure exhibits an intra‐ and intermolecular slip‐stack arrangement of the heterochiral PBI units, forming a unique one‐dimensional π‐stacking supramolecular polymer‐like structure. These findings emphasize that the unique solid‐state arrangement of the chromophores cannot be easily predicted by elaborate studies in solution or by theoretical calculations. Furthermore, it features the importance of controlling the crystal packing to enable specific applications based on multiexciton generation processes where the spatial dependence and relative orientation of the chromophores are decisive parameters.
In Silico Activation of CO2, NO2, and SO2 with Light Atom Molecules and Stepwise Conversion of CO2 into Methanol and Water
Authors: Mebs Stefan , Beckmann Jens
Published: May 2023

CO2, NO2, and SO2 can be activated in silico with tailor‐made light atom tripodal ligand systems carrying particular numbers of Lewis acidic and basic sites in specific relative orientations. In the calculated EO2‐adducts (E=C, N, S), considerable E−O bond elongations of 0.1–0.3 Å, decreasing the E=O double bond character, and O−E−O angle alterations, approaching tetrahedral geometry, activate the donor acceptor complexes towards reduction with BH4−. The lone pairs of the P atoms thereby serve as donors towards the central element, C, N, or S, whereas the electron deficient B atoms serve as acceptors. The charge redistribution within the EO2 complex was monitored by a variety of DFT‐derived real‐space bonding indicators (RSBIs) including bond topologies, non‐covalent contact patches, and electron pair basins. For one CO2‐complex, the reduction towards methanol and water was conducted via stepwise addition of H− and H+. The most critical steps are the initial CO2 uptake due to potential quenching of the ligand systems in their active state, increasing the kinetic barrier, and the release of methanol and water from the ligand system due to potential ligand poisoning. Unbeneficial side reactions in the stepwise reduction and protonation have to be considered.
Synergistic Interaction of Dual‐Polymer Networks Containing Viologens‐Anchored Poly(ionic liquid)s Enabling Long‐Life and Large‐Area Electrochromic Organogels
Authors: Wu Xilu , Fan Qingchao , Bai Zhiyuan , Zhang Qinghong , Jiang Weizhong , Li Yaogang , Hou Chengyi , Li Kerui , Wang Hongzhi
Published: May 2023

Viologens‐based electrochromic (EC) devices with multiple color changes, rapid response time, and simple all‐in‐one architecture have aroused much attention, yet suffer from poor redox stability caused by the irreversible aggregation of free radical viologens. Herein, the semi‐interpenetrating dual‐polymer network (DPN) organogels are introduced to improve the cycling stability of viologens‐based EC devices. The primary cross‐linked poly(ionic liquid)s (PILs) covalently anchored with viologens can suppress irreversible face‐to‐face contact between radical viologens. The secondary poly(vinylidenefluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF‐HFP) chains with strong polar groups of ‐F can not only synergistically confine the viologens by the strong electrostatic effect, but also improve the mechanical performance of the organogels. Consequently, the DPN organogels show excellent cycling stability (87.5% retention after 10 000 cycles) and mechanical flexibility (strength of 3.67 MPa and elongation of 280%). Three types of alkenyl viologens are designed to obtain blue, green, and magenta colors, demonstrating the universality of the DPN strategy. Large‐area EC devices (20 × 30 cm) and EC fibers based on organogels are assembled to demonstrate promising applications in green and energy‐saving buildings and wearable electronics.
Extendable Solar Interfacial Evaporator with High Salt Resistance Achieved by Managing the Evaporation Region
Authors: Li Yihang , Cheng Shaoan , Jin Beichen , Yu Zhen , Gu Ruonan
Published: May 2023

Zero‐liquid‐discharge‐type solar interface evaporators have shown great potential for applications in areas such as desalination and salt production. Edge‐crystallization‐type evaporators using a single water supply column composition are widely investigated. However, the evaporator area is limited by the water supply capacity of a single water supply column, making it difficult to scale‐up. Herein, an evaporative area management (EAM) strategy is proposed to enable the evaporator to build a larger area by applying multiple water supply columns while avoiding crystallization on the evaporating surface. The salt‐tolerance performance and mechanism of the EAM strategy are investigated through experiments and simulations, and the optimal evaporation performance is achieved through parameter optimization. The seven‐stage multistage distillation device assembled with the optimized EAM strategy achieves a fourfold increase in evaporation area at 1 kW m−2 light intensity and 3.5 wt% NaCl solution with a stable evaporation rate of 1.8 kg m−2 h−1 and a salt yield of 66 × g m−2 h−1. In particular, the device maintains stable evaporation under 2 kW m−2 concentrated light conditions and 7 days of cyclic operation. Thus, this stable operation salt‐tolerance strategy provides a promising option for scale‐up desalination technology.
Emerging Nano‐Immunotherapeutic Approaches to Glioma
Authors: Nan Jin , Yang Wei , Xie Yujie , Yu Meihua , Chen Yu , Zhang Jun
Published: May 2023

Glioma is a highly invasive and frequently occurring type of brain malignancy in the central nervous system. The prognosis is often poor for glioma patients, despite the substantial advances in diagnosis and therapeutic approaches. The breakthrough discoveries in oncoimmunology have led to innovative and efficacious immunotherapeutic strategies to treat or even cure cancer patients; however, the efficacy of immunotherapy to glioma is disappointing. The unsatisfied outcomes can be explained by local immune resistance, blood–brain barrier (BBB), spatially heterogenous and immunologically specialized glioma microenvironment, etc. The emergence of nanoengineered immunotherapeutics transforms the modalities in glioma immunotherapy under preclinical and clinical settings. Nanotechnology aids the immunotherapeutics crossing the BBB and flicks the switch of immunity locally and systematically for enhanced tumor‐infiltrating effector immune cells against glioma. Herein, the advancement of knowledge in healthy brain immunology and glioma‐associated local and systemic immunosuppression is summarized and highlighted. The clinical development of immunotherapeutic approaches is discussed, such as therapeutic glioma vaccines, dendritic cell vaccines, immune checkpoint blockade, adoptive cell therapy, and new immunotargets. Herein, nanotechnology‐enabled glioma immunotherapy in preclinical and clinical studies is clarified and perspectives on future possibilities of advancing nanoengineered immunotherapeutics to clinical reality for glioma treatment are provided.
Home at last: Molecular phylogenetic analyses support subsuming Metastachydium within Phlomoides (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Zhao Yue , Zhao Fei , Salmaki Yasaman , Paton Alan , Cai Jie , Drew Bryan T. , Mahmoudi Chonour , Efimov Petr , Turginov Orzimat T. , Liang Cun‐Zhu , Chen Ya‐Ping , Xiang Chun‐Lei
Published: May 2023

Distributed in Central Asia, Metastachydium (Lamiaceae) is a poorly understood and rare monotypic genus, with few collections known. The systematic position of this enigmatic genus within Lamiaceae has remained unresolved due to its poor representation in herbaria and coincident lack of available materials for molecular phylogenetic analysis. Facilitated by some recent collections, we performed Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood analyses, using an 80‐protein‐coding plastid‐gene dataset of Lamioideae, to infer the systematic placement of Metastachydium at the tribal level within Lamioideae. In addition, we used an 8‐plastid‐DNA‐region dataset as well as the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer to determine the phylogenetic affinities of Metastachydium. All phylogenetic analyses agree that Metastachydium is a member of Phlomideae and deeply nested within the genus Phlomoides, suggesting the need to expand the latter to include Metastachydium. Hence, a new combination, Phlomoides sagittata comb. nov., is proposed, and we present the first available photographs and an amended morphological description of P. sagittata. In addition, the infrageneric circumscription of Phlomoides is not supported, as most sections and subsections are not monophyletic. Hybridization and incomplete lineage sorting, following rapid diversification within Phlomoides, seem to be the source of incongruence between the nuclear and plastid tree topologies.
Using automated analysis to assess middle school students' competence with scientific argumentation
Authors: Wilson Christopher D. , Haudek Kevin C. , Osborne Jonathan F. , Buck Bracey Zoë E. , Cheuk Tina , Donovan Brian M. , Stuhlsatz Molly A. M. , Santiago Marisol M. , Zhai Xiaoming
Published: May 2023

Argumentation is fundamental to science education, both as a prominent feature of scientific reasoning and as an effective mode of learning—a perspective reflected in contemporary frameworks and standards. The successful implementation of argumentation in school science, however, requires a paradigm shift in science assessment from the measurement of knowledge and understanding to the measurement of performance and knowledge in use. Performance tasks requiring argumentation must capture the many ways students can construct and evaluate arguments in science, yet such tasks are both expensive and resource‐intensive to score. In this study we explore how machine learning text classification techniques can be applied to develop efficient, valid, and accurate constructed‐response measures of students' competency with written scientific argumentation that are aligned with a validated argumentation learning progression. Data come from 933 middle school students in the San Francisco Bay Area and are based on three sets of argumentation items in three different science contexts. The findings demonstrate that we have been able to develop computer scoring models that can achieve substantial to almost perfect agreement between human‐assigned and computer‐predicted scores. Model performance was slightly weaker for harder items targeting higher levels of the learning progression, largely due to the linguistic complexity of these responses and the sparsity of higher‐level responses in the training data set. Comparing the efficacy of different scoring approaches revealed that breaking down students' arguments into multiple components (e.g., the presence of an accurate claim or providing sufficient evidence), developing computer models for each component, and combining scores from these analytic components into a holistic score produced better results than holistic scoring approaches. However, this analytical approach was found to be differentially biased when scoring responses from English learners (EL) students as compared to responses from non‐EL students on some items. Differences in the severity between human and computer scores for EL between these approaches are explored, and potential sources of bias in automated scoring are discussed.
A global perspective on combatingShanzhaiproducts: Cross‐cultural solutions
Authors: Qin Yao , Song Lei , Hui Shi Linda , (Frank) Tan Kang
Published: May 2023

To compete on the world market, companies from emerging economies often adapt their innovations to satisfy unique cultural needs. They do so, in part, by copying the products of their western counterparts with a degree of modification. This approach is referred to asShanzhai,which is a Chinese neologism meaning “copycat.” In this article, we discuss theShanzhaiphenomenon and explainShanzhai'sdevelopment stages and threats to original brands across the globe. Then, we examine how cultural factors (i.e., power distance belief, face consciousness, and analytic vs. holistic‐thinking style) influence consumers’ perception towardsShanzhaiproducts. We further suggest that original manufacturers should adopt selected strategies to combatShanzhaithreats vis‐à‐vis three cultural drivers. One driver entails launching full product lines and developing new distribution channels in high power distance belief cultures but promoting brand originality in low power distance belief cultures. A second alternative involves embracing a sustainable and green brand image in low face‐sensitive cultures but strengthening brand logo impacts and enhancing intangible brand benefits—such as social value (e.g., brand user profile, prestige)—in high face‐sensitive cultures. The third entails communicating integrated product values in holistic‐thinking cultures but highlighting an offering's most competitive and unique features in analytic‐thinking cultures.
Efficacy of plant breeding using genomic information
Authors: Montesinos‐López Osval A. , Bentley Alison R. , Saint Pierre Carolina , Crespo‐Herrera Leonardo , Rebollar‐Ruellas Leonardo , Valladares‐Celis Patricia Edwigis , Lillemo Morten , Montesinos‐López Abelardo , Crossa José
Published: May 2023

Genomic selection (GS) proposed by Meuwissen et al. more than 20 years ago, is revolutionizing plant and animal breeding. Although GS has been widely accepted and applied to plant and animal breeding, there are many factors affecting its efficacy. We studied 14 real datasets to respond to the practical question of whether the accuracy of genomic prediction increases when considering genomic as compared with not using genomic. We found across traits, environments, datasets, and metrics, that the average gain in prediction accuracy when genomic information is considered was 26.31%, while only in terms of Pearson's correlation the gain was of 46.1%, while only in terms of normalized root mean squared error the gain was of 6.6%. If the quality of the makers and relatedness of the individuals increase, major gains in prediction accuracy can be obtained, but if these two factors decrease, a lower increase is possible. Finally, our findings reinforce genomic is vital for improving the prediction accuracy and, therefore, the realized genetic gain in genomic assisted plant breeding programs.
Recent trends in smartphone‐based optical imaging biosensors for genetic testing: A review
Authors: Zong Haotian , Zhang Yunshan , Liu Xingxing , Xu Zhongyuan , Ye Jing , Lu Shasha , Guo Xinyu , Yang Zhihao , Zhang Xiaoyu , Chai Mengyao , Fan Minzhi , Liao Yuheng , Yang Wenjian , Wu Yue , Zhang Diming
Published: May 2023

Genetic testing plays an important role in human health management and disease prevention. However, traditional genetic testing methods have been unable to fulfill the current diagnostic needs owing to several limitations, including high cost, complexity, and difficulty in performing. Smartphones have multiple inherent advantages, such as easy portability, ubiquity, fast processing speed, and excellent imaging capabilities, and have enormous potential in realizing rapid on‐site genetic testing. The present review documents the research progress of smartphone‐based optical imaging biosensors in the fields of colorimetry, fluorescence, and microscopic imaging for genetic testing. Furthermore, the review describes their potential applications in diagnostics, which range from infectious diseases to hereditary diseases and cancers. Finally, the challenges and perspectives of smartphone‐based optical imaging biosensors regarding genetic testing are discussed.
Timing of Seep Activities and Potential Driving Forces
Authors: Feng Dong
Published: May 2023

One of the foremost topics in seep research is the timing of seep activities and their potential driving forces. In the South China Sea, seep activities are primarily driven by gas hydrate dissociation–destabilization of gas hydrate leads to a release of methane. As decreases in pressure and increases in temperature promote gas hydrate dissociation, ocean warming and sea level lowstands are proposed to cause the dissociation of gas hydrate deposits and consequently induce methane seepage at the seafloor. Cross-slope investigations suggest that the bottom water pressure‒temperature conditions appear to have different impacts on seeps at different water depths. It is possible that seepage in the upper continental slope is more sensitive to sea level changes than that in the middle and lower continental slopes, which are more sensitive to bottom water temperature. Scientific drilling and the application of a range of geochemical and geophysical analytical approaches are proposed to advance our understanding of the temporal evolution of seep systems in the South China Sea.
Validation of a predictive model for speech discrimination after cochlear impIant provision
Authors: Hoppe Ulrich , Hast Anne , Hocke Thomas
Published: May 2023

Background

If sufficient speech discrimination is no longer achieved with conventional hearing systems, an audiological indication for a cochlear implant (CI) is given. However, there are no established target criteria for CI aftercare with regard to the level of speech comprehension to be achieved. The aim of this study is to validate an existing predictive model for speech comprehension after CI provision. This is applied to different patient groups.

Materials and methods

The prospective study included 124 postlingually deaf adults. The model is based on preoperative maximum monosyllabic recognition score, aided monosyllabic recognition score at 65 dBSPL, and age the time of implantation. The model was investigated with regard to prediction accuracy for monosyllabic recognition with CI after 6 months.

Results

Mean speech discrimination improved from 10% with hearing aid to 65% with CI after 6 months, with a statistically significant improvement in 93% of cases. Deterioration of aided unilateral speech discrimination was not observed. The mean prediction error was 11.5 percentage points in the cases with preoperative scores better than zero and 23.2 percentage points in all other cases.

Conclusion

Cochlear implantation should also be considered in patients with moderately severe to severe hearing loss and insufficient speech discrimination with hearing aids. The model based on preoperatively measured data for predicting speech discrimination with CI can be used in preoperative consultation and in the context of postoperative quality assurance.