bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Biphasic Osteovascular Biomimetic Scaffold for Rapid and Self‐Sustained Endochondral Ossification
Authors: Kim Hwan D. , Hong Xuechong , An Young‐Hyeon , Park Mihn Jeong , Kim Do‐Gyoon , Greene Arin K. , Padwa Bonnie L. , Hwang Nathaniel S. , Lin Ruei‐Zeng , Melero‐Martin Juan M.
Published: April 2021

Regeneration of large bones remains a challenge in surgery. Recent developmental engineering efforts aim to recapitulate endochondral ossification (EO), a critical step in bone formation. However, this process entails the condensation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into cartilaginous templates, which requires long‐term cultures and is challenging to scale up. Here, a biomimetic scaffold is developed that allows rapid and self‐sustained EO without initial hypertrophic chondrogenesis. The design comprises a porous chondroitin sulfate cryogel decorated with whitlockite calcium phosphate nanoparticles, and a soft hydrogel occupying the porous space. This composite scaffold enables human endothelial colony‐forming cells (ECFCs) and MSCs to rapidly assemble into osteovascular niches in immunodeficient mice. These niches contain ECFC‐lined blood vessels and perivascular MSCs that differentiate into RUNX2+OSX+ pre‐osteoblasts after one week in vivo. Subsequently, multiple ossification centers are formed, leading to de novo bone tissue formation by eight weeks, including mature human OCN+OPN+ osteoblasts, collagen‐rich mineralized extracellular matrix, hydroxyapatite, osteoclast activity, and gradual mechanical competence. The early establishment of blood vessels is essential, and grafts that do not contain ECFCs fail to produce osteovascular niches and ossification centers. The findings suggest a novel bioengineering approach to recapitulate EO in the context of human bone regeneration.
An Ultra‐Stable, Oxygen‐Supply Nanoprobe Emitting in Near‐Infrared‐II Window to Guide and Enhance Radiotherapy by Promoting Anti‐Tumor Immunity
Authors: Wang Meng , Li Hao , Huang Biao , Chen Song , Cui Ran , Sun Zhi‐Jun , Zhang Mingxi , Sun Taolei
Published: April 2021

Currently, radiotherapy (RT) is the main method for cancer treatment. However, the hypoxic environment of solid tumors is likely to cause resistance or failure of RT. Moreover, high‐dose radiation may cause side effects to surrounding normal tissues. In this study, a new type of nanozyme is developed by doping Mn (II) ions into Ag2Se quantum dots (QDs) emitting in the second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II, 1000–1700 nm). Through the catalysis of Mn (II) ions, the nanozymes can trigger the rapid decomposition of H2O2 and produce O2. Conjugated with tumor‐targeting arginine‐glycine‐aspartate (RGD) tripeptides and polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecules, the nanozymes are then constructed into in vivo nanoprobes for NIR‐II imaging‐guided RT of tumors. Owing to the radiosensitive activity of the element Ag, the nanoprobes can promote radiation energy deposition. The specific tumor‐targeting and NIR‐II emitting abilities of the nanoprobes facilitate the precise tumor localization, which enables precise RT with low side effects. Moreover, their ultra‐stability in the living body ensures that the nanoprobes continuously produce oxygen and relieve the hypoxia of tumors to enhance RT efficacy. Guided by real‐time and high‐clarity imaging, the nanoprobe‐mediated RT promotes anti‐tumor immunity, which significantly inhibits the growth of tumors or even cures them completely.
In Situ Interface Engineering with a Spiro‐OMeTAD/CoO Hierarchical Structure via One‐Step Spin‐Coating for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Dou Yanfei , Zhang Lei , Li Guodong , Wang Xiaobing , Sun Weihai , Wu Jihuai , Lan Zhang
Published: April 2021

Interface engineering plays crucial role for fabricating high efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs) because the trap defects, especially those existing at the interfaces, will become recombination centers during the generation and transport of photo‐generated charges and seriously influence photovoltaic performance. Commonly, interface engineering with semiconductor nanomaterials usually use ex situ method, which brings about more tedious fabricating steps. Here, a hierarchical structure is successfully fabricated with CoO nanoplates underneath and (N,N‐di‐p‐methoxyphenylamine)‐9,9′‐Spirobifluorene (Spiro‐OMeTAD) on top by one‐step spin‐coating the hybrid. This in situ formed CoO thin passivation layer shows functions for realizing better charge transport kinetics and effectively inhibiting dark recombination in the corresponding device. These benefits are propitious to achieving better photovoltaic performance and long‐term stability than those of the control one. Therefore, it is an easy and feasible way for interface engineering in the PSCs.
Crystalline Metal‐Organic Materials with Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence
Authors: Han Zhen , Dong Xi‐Yan , Zang Shuang‐Quan
Published: April 2021

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) properties of crystalline metal‐organic materials, mainly including small‐molecule metal–organic complexes, organic ligand‐protected metal clusters, and metal‐organic coordination polymers are summarized here. The characteristics of TADF of each type of materials are discussed. Thermally activated delayed photoluminescence (TADPL) in quantum dots grafted organic chromophores is also briefly presented to highlight the difference from TADF. Finally, the perspectives of crystalline metal‐containing TADF emitters are discussed. Therefore, a panoramic view of recent advances in metal‐organic materials for TADF emitters is provided.
Interfacing Iodine‐Doped Hydrothermally Carbonized Carbon with Escherichia coli through an “Add‐on” Mode for Enhanced Light‐Driven Hydrogen Production
Authors: Xiao Kemeng , Tsang Tsz Ho , Sun Dong , Liang Jun , Zhao Hui , Jiang Zhifeng , Wang Bo , Yu Jimmy C. , Wong Po Keung
Published: April 2021

The recently emerged photosynthetic biohybrid systems (PBSs) integrate the advantages of the light‐harvesting ability of semiconductors and the catalytic power of biological metabolism. Herein, negatively charged iodine‐doped hydrothermally carbonized carbon (I‐HTCC) is interfaced with surface modified Escherichia coli cells through a facile “add‐on” mode via electrostatic interactions. As a result of the photoexcited electrons, the self‐assembled I‐HTCC@E. coli biohybrid shows enhanced hydrogen production efficiency with a quantum efficiency of 9.11% under irradiation. The transduction of photoelectrons from I‐HTCC to cells is the rate‐limiting step for H2 production and is delivered through both direct injection and the NADH/NAD+‐mediated pathways. The injected photoelectrons fine‐tune the H2 production through the formate and NADH pathways in a subtle manner. The excellent biocompatibility and photostability of the I‐HTCC@E. coli biohybrid demonstrate its potential real‐world application under sunlight. In addition, the proposed “add‐on” mode is extended to a series of negatively charged common carbon‐based materials with different levels of promotion effects compared with that of pure bacterial cultures. This facile and effective mode provides an insight into the rational design of the whole‐cell PBSs with various semiconductors for H2 production.
Self‐Healing Properties of Alkali Metals under “High‐Energy Conditions” in Batteries
Authors: Li Yuqian , Zhang Liyuan , Zhang Jiaheng , Wang Xiuli , Gu Changdong , Xia Xinhui , Tu Jiangping
Published: April 2021

With the development of high‐energy‐density metal batteries, dendrite growth has become a bottleneck for the further improvement of alkali metal electrodes. In this study, the self‐healing performance of dendrites under “high‐energy conditions” are predicted and verified. Initially, the driving force of self‐healing is analyzed based on surface energy. Theoretically, the activation energy for atom diffusion, which contributes to the resistance of self‐healing, is quantitatively calculated. Moreover, to illustrate self‐healing in Li, Na, and K electrodes, electrochemical curves, in situ optical images, and SEM images are obtained at different temperatures and current densities. Based on the results, it is concluded that K dendrites under “high‐energy conditions” (i.e., at high temperatures and high current densities) possess the highest self‐healing ability and reparability. Consequently, the self‐healing properties of alkali metals under high‐energy conditions are theoretically and experimentally examined and confirmed.
Reduced synchrony in alpha oscillations during life predicts post mortem neurofibrillary tangle density in early‐onset and atypical Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ranasinghe Kamalini G. , Petersen Cathrine , Kudo Kiwamu , Mizuiri Danielle , Rankin Katherine P. , Rabinovici Gil D. , Gorno‐Tempini Maria Luisa , Seeley William W. , Spina Salvatore , Miller Bruce L. , Vossel Keith , Grinberg Lea T. , Nagarajan Srikantan S.
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Neurophysiological manifestations selectively associated with amyloid beta and tau depositions in Alzheimer's disease (AD) are useful network biomarkers to identify peptide specific pathological processes. The objective of this study was to validate the associations between reduced neuronal synchrony within alpha oscillations and neurofibrillary tangle (NFT) density in autopsy examination, in patients with AD.

Methods

In a well‐characterized clinicopathological cohort of AD patients (n = 13), we quantified neuronal synchrony within alpha (8–12 Hz) and delta‐theta (2–8 Hz) oscillations, using magnetoencephalography during the disease course, within six selected neocortical and hippocampal regions, including angular gyrus, superior temporal gurus, middle frontal gyrus, primary motor cortex, CA1, and subiculum, and correlated these with regional NFT density quantified at histopathological examination.

Results

Abnormal synchrony in alpha, but not in delta‐theta, significantly predicted the NFT density at post mortem neuropathological examination.

Discussion

Reduced alpha synchrony is a sensitive neurophysiological index associated with pathological tau, and a potential network biomarker for clinical trials, to gauge the extent of network dysfunction and the degree of rescue in treatments targeting tau pathways in AD.
Self‐Assembly of Single‐Diamond‐Surface Networks
Authors: Sheng Qingqing , Chen Hao , Mao Wenting , Cui Congcong , Che Shunai , Han Lu
Published: April 2021

Biological scaffolds with hyperbolic surfaces, especially single gyroid and single‐diamond structures, have sparked immense interest for creating novel materials due to their extraordinary physical properties. However, the ability of nature to create these unbalanced surfaces has not been achieved in either lyotropic liquid crystals or block copolymer phases due to their thermodynamical instability in these systems. Here, we report the synthesis of a porous silica scaffold with a single‐diamond‐surface structure fabricated by self‐assembly of the poly(ethylene oxide)‐b‐polystyrene‐b‐poly(L‐lactide) and silica precursors in a mixed solvent of tetrahydrofuran and water. The single‐diamond structure with tetrahedral interconnected frameworks was revealed by the electron crystallographic reconstruction. We assume that the formation of single networks is induced by the structural transition and related to the energetic change due to the fluctuations of the Gaussian curvature. This work may provide new insights into these biologically relevant surfaces and related self‐assembly systems.
Iridium‐Catalyzed Acid‐Assisted Hydrogenation of Oximes to Hydroxylamines
Authors: Mas‐Roselló Josep , Cope Christopher J. , Tan Eric , Pinson Benjamin , Robinson Alan , Smejkal Tomas , Cramer Nicolai
Published: April 2021

We found that cyclometalated cyclopentadienyl iridium(III) complexes are uniquely efficient catalysts in homogeneous hydrogenation of oximes to hydroxylamine products. A stable iridium C,N‐chelation is crucial, with alkoxy‐substituted aryl ketimine ligands providing the best catalytic performance. Several Ir‐complexes were mapped by X‐ray crystal analysis in order to collect steric parameters that might guide a rational design of even more active catalysts. A broad range of oximes and oxime ethers were activated with stoichiometric amounts of methanesulfonic acid and reduced at room temperature, remarkably without cleavage of the fragile N−O bond. The exquisite functional group compatibility of our hydrogenation system was further demonstrated by additive tests. Experimental mechanistic investigations support an ionic hydrogenation platform, and suggest a role for the Brønsted acid beyond a proton source. Our studies provide deep understanding of this novel acidic hydrogenation and may facilitate its improvement and application to other challenging substrates.
Spinal myoclonus following spinal anaesthesia in a patient with restless legs syndrome
Authors: Sieffien W. , Peng P. , Dinsmore M.
Published: April 2021

Myoclonus is defined as involuntary muscle contractions that are self‐limiting. The presentation can be diverse, and severe movements may cause significant alarm to both patient and practitioner, with the potential for inappropriate management. Although rare, myoclonus has been associated with intrathecal anaesthetics; however, the exact aetiology remains unclear. In this report, we present a case of delayed spinal myoclonus following the administration of intrathecal bupivacaine to a patient with a known history of restless legs syndrome. The aim of this report is to increase awareness of this rare complication and to contribute to the current body of literature in order that the pathophysiology and potential risk factors may be better understood.
Bovine serum albumin‐silica functionalized γ‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles (BSA‐Si@Fe2O3): A highly efficient and magnetically recoverable heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of substituted pyrrole derivatives
Authors: Siddiqui Shaheen , Rather Ryhan Abdullah , Siddiqui Zeba N.
Published: April 2021

The present study used silica functionalized bovine serum albumin as a bio‐support for γ‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles (NPs) to synthesize a magnetically recoverable heterogeneous catalyst (BSA‐Si@Fe2O3). The structure of the catalyst was well established by various techniques such as Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscope/Energy Dispersive X‐ray (SEM/EDX), elemental mapping, Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Thermogravimetric (TG), Powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), and Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) analyses. The catalyst also possesses magnetic properties as shown by Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM). The strong acidic properties of the catalyst was calculated using potentiometric titration showing Ei value in the range of 0 < Ei < 100 mV. The catalyst was found to be highly efficient for the synthesis of pyrroles affording high yield (87%–94%) in short reaction time period under environmentally feasible reaction conditions (high atom economy and low E‐factor). The BSA‐Si@Fe2O3 could be recycled up to six cycles with insignificant loss in catalytic potential.
Enhancement of spin Seebeck effect of reverse spin crossover Fe (II) micellar charge transport using PMMA polymer electrolyte
Authors: Megat Hasnan Megat Muhammad Ikhsan , Mohd Noor Ikhwan Syafiq , Nayan Nafarizal , Ahmad Mohd Khairul , Mohd Said Suhana , Mohd Sabri Mohd Faizul , Mohd Salleh Mohd Faiz , Mohamed Ali Mohamed Sultan , Mohd Zin Rosnah
Published: April 2021

The electrochemical thermoelectric effect is capable of generating Seebeck and conductivity from a temperature gradient through redox reaction at the electrode. Conventional spin Seebeck effect (SSE) is the generation of spin voltage by solid coupling magnetic thin film in presence of magnetic field and temperature gradient. In this study, we demonstrate an enhancement of a magnetic free SSE of Fe (II) reverse spin‐crossover in electrolyte using 1% PMMA polymer additive in form of polymer electrolyte. The reverse spin effect of Fe (II) complex, which is confirmed by SQUID magnetometer analysis and DFT simulation, is able to produce magnetic free SSE in solution. A unique electrochemical behavior is found in form of SSE Fe (II) polymer electrolyte that is elucidated using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and UV‐Vis analysis. The polymer electrolyte that possesses strong spin Seebeck produces a maximum Seebeck coefficient and conductivity of 124 % and 233 % higher than that weak SSE and conventional liquid electrolyte. The spin Seebeck produces a high number of carrier density through fast diffusion at high spin state, and the opposite charge properties trend at low spin state. Cryo‐TEM analysis had shown that the generation of spin Seeebeck effect of the Fe (II) complex in solution also involves reverse spherical micelles formation. Thus, this study highlights the finding of a rare magnetic free spin Seebeck generation in polymer electrolyte that having potential for waste heat recycles, heat sensors, and thermal switches applications upon development.
Study of “coordinative effect” within bi‐blended amine MEA + AMP and MEA + BEA at 0.1 + 2–0.5 + 2 mol/L with absorption–desorption parameter analyses
Authors: Shi Huancong , Feng Hongliang , Yang Xuan , Zou Ting , Tontiwachwuthikul Paitoon , Jiang Linhua
Published: April 2021

The “coordinative effect” was discovered in MEA + DEA bi‐solvents already, and it enhances both CO2 absorption and desorption within MEA + RR'NH simultaneously. A recent study verified strong coordinative effects within MEA + BEA (RR'NH) + AMP tri‐solvents, but whether the coordination was 100% attributed to interaction of MEA + BEA needs to be confirmed. This study investigated the “coordinative effect” separately within MEA + AMP (hindered amine) and MEA + BEA (RR'NH). The CO2 absorption and desorption processes were performed onto MEA + AMP and MEA + BEA (0.1 + 2–0.5 + 2 mol/L) separately. The CO2 absorption–desorption parameters were calculated to evaluate the coordinative effects on a consistent level. Results indicated negligible “coordinative effect” within MEA + AMP but strong coordination within MEA + BEA. Both CO2 absorption and desorption performance of MEA + BEA (0.2 + 2 mol/L) was better than 2.0 mol/L BEA simultaneously. The coordinative effect was optimum within MEA + BEA bi‐solvents at 0.2 + 2 mol/L close to 0.3 + 2 + 2 mol/L of MEA + BEA + AMP tri‐solvents. Based on analysis, carbamate stability and pKa were two main factors that determine negligible–strong coordinative effects between AMP and BEA; different pKa reflected the optimized blending ratios of MEA + DEA (3/7) and MEA + BEA (2/20).
Mitigating combustion instability and NOx emissions with annular oxyfuel jets into the flame shear layer region
Authors: Tao Chengfei , Zhou Hao
Published: April 2021

The shear layer is a region between the internal and external recirculating zone of the flame, which is critical for combustion stabilization and emission. This study experimentally studied the effects of oxyfuel (CO2/O2) shear layer injections on combustion dynamics and pollutant emissions of a model gas turbine combustor. To evaluate the damping performances of ‘Oxy’ CO2/O2 shear layer jets on unsteady combustion and pollutant formation processes, four variables of the CO2/O2 shear layer injection system are studied—the flow rate, the inner diameter, the injection angle and the oxygen ratio. Experimental results show that thermoacoustic instability and NOx emissions can be suppressed with the ‘Oxy’ CO2/O2 shear layer injection method. The minimum inner diameter cases could achieve better control effectiveness of 80%, with the sound pressure amplitude drops from 27 to 5.4 Pa. The maximum inner diameter case could achieve better control effectiveness of 59.2%, with the concentration of NOx emissions drops from 25 to 10.2 ppm. Flame oscillation modes experienced shifting and switching under different shear layer angles and oxygen ratios. There exist extreme points that can be selected for a better control effect. The CO2/O2 shear layer injection splits the inner and outer recirculation zones of the flame. As the oxygen ratio of CO2/O2 varied from 36% to 46%, a flame flapping phenomenon emerged. The ‘Oxy’ CO2/O2 shear layer injection method could eliminate combustion instability and NOx emissions at a relatively lower cost and complexity, which will promote the development of high‐performance burners.
A bifunctional modifier endowing epoxy resin with outstanding flame retardancy and high impact strength
Authors: Han Yichen , Zhao Hui , Chen Lixin , Ran Di , Chen Jichuan , Zhao Jia , Xu Tingting
Published: April 2021

The flammability and brittleness are two major shortages of epoxy resin (EP). Normally, adding flame retardants can deteriorate the mechanical property of EP. Herein, in this work, a reactive flame retardant (DPPO‐TES) containing both Si and P was synthesized and incorporated into EP. When the content of P is only 1.0 wt%, the LOI of the modified EP (DPPO‐TES/EP) reaches to 33.2%, UL‐94 passes V0, THR and pk‐HRR are 377.6 kw/m2 and 103.5 MJ/m2, respectively, which is attributed to the high flame‐retardant efficiency in both condense phase and gas phase. In addition, the flexible SiOSi chains in the structure can significantly improve the impact strength of DPPO‐TES/EP. Therefore, as a bifunctional modifier, DPPO‐TES has a wide application prospect for EP materials.
Shape memory epoxy vitrimers based on waste frying sunflower oil
Authors: Nicolas Simon , Richard Tiphaine , Dourdan Juliette , Lemiègre Loïc , Audic Jean‐Luc
Published: April 2021

Thermoset polyesters are prepared from epoxidized waste frying sunflower oil (ESO), commercially available epoxy compounds and glutaric acid. Influence of the nature and concentration of bi‐ and trifunctionnal epoxy compounds on mechanical properties is studied. Static and dynamic mechanical tests are performed. The molar amount of commercial epoxy compounds used ranges from 20% to 80% regarding the molar amount of ESO. It enables to obtain thermosetting polyesters with glass transition temperatures ranging from 6°C to 102°C, as well as storage modulus ranging from 8 GPa to 14 GPa. 40% of trifunctional epoxy compound and 60% of commercial epoxy compound are found to be the best compromises between bio‐based content and mechanical properties. Furthermore, shape memory and vitrimer behavior of those epoxy‐acid based networks with 60% of commercial epoxy compounds are evaluated both qualitatively and quantitatively by cyclic thermo‐mechanical and stress relaxation tests. Excellent shape memory behavior with fixity ratios above 94% and recovery ratios above 98% is demonstrated. A transesterification catalyst is needed to obtain good vitrimer behavior. Overall, thanks to the previously mentioned properties of those partially biobased thermosets polyesters, industrial applications such as protective coatings, foams and temperature‐memory polymer actuators might be considered.
Lupus Anticoagulant Single Positivity During the Acute Phase of COVID‐19 Is Not Associated With Venous Thromboembolism or In‐Hospital Mortality
Authors: Gendron Nicolas , Dragon‐Durey Marie‐Agnès , Chocron Richard , Darnige Luc , Jourdi Georges , Philippe Aurélien , Chenevier‐Gobeaux Camille , Hadjadj Jérôme , Duchemin Jérôme , Khider Lina , Yatim Nader , Goudot Guillaume , Krzisch Daphné , Debuc Benjamin , Mauge Laetitia , Levavasseur Françoise , Pene Frédéric , Boussier Jeremy , Sourdeau Elise , Brichet Julie , Ochat Nadège , Goulvestre Claire , Peronino Christophe , Szwebel Tali‐Anne , Pages Franck , Gaussem Pascale , Samama Charles‐Marc , Cheurfa Cherifa , Planquette Benjamin , Sanchez Olivier , Diehl Jean‐Luc , Mirault Tristan , Fontenay Michaela , Terrier Benjamin , Smadja David M.
Published: April 2021

Objective

The clinical relevance of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) in COVID‐19 is controversial. This study was undertaken to investigate the prevalence and prognostic value of conventional and nonconventional aPLs in patients with COVID‐19.

Methods

This was a multicenter, prospective observational study in a French cohort of patients hospitalized with suspected COVID‐19.

Results

Two hundred forty‐nine patients were hospitalized with suspected COVID‐19, in whom COVID‐19 was confirmed in 154 and not confirmed in 95. We found a significant increase in lupus anticoagulant (LAC) positivity among patients with COVID‐19 compared to patients without COVID‐19 (60.9% versus 23.7%; P < 0.001), while prevalence of conventional aPLs (IgG and IgM anti–β2‐glycoprotein I and IgG and IgM anticardiolipin isotypes) and nonconventional aPLs (IgA isotype of anticardiolipin, IgA isotype of anti‐β2‐glycoprotein I, IgG and IgM isotypes of anti–phosphatidylserine/prothrombin, and IgG and IgM isotypes of antiprothrombin) was low in both groups. Patients with COVID‐19 who were positive for LAC, as compared to patients with COVID‐19 who were negative for LAC, had higher levels of fibrinogen (median 6.0 gm/liter [interquartile range 5.0–7.0] versus 5.3 gm/liter [interquartile range 4.3–6.4]; P = 0.028) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) (median 115.5 mg/liter [interquartile range 66.0–204.8] versus 91.8 mg/liter [interquartile range 27.0–155.1]; P = 0.019). Univariate analysis did not show any association between LAC positivity and higher risks of venous thromboembolism (VTE) (odds ratio 1.02 [95% confidence interval 0.44–2.43], P = 0.95) or in‐hospital mortality (odds ratio 1.80 [95% confidence interval 0.70–5.05], P = 0.24). With and without adjustment for CRP level, age, and sex, Kaplan‐Meier survival curves according to LAC positivity confirmed the absence of an association with VTE or in‐hospital mortality (unadjusted P = 0.64 and P = 0.26, respectively; adjusted hazard ratio 1.13 [95% confidence interval 0.48–2.60] and 1.80 [95% confidence interval 0.67–5.01], respectively).

Conclusion

Patients with COVID‐19 have an increased prevalence of LAC positivity associated with biologic markers of inflammation. However, LAC positivity at the time of hospital admission is not associated with VTE risk and/or in‐hospital mortality.
An Atypical Arginine Dihydrolase Involved in the Biosynthesis of Cyclic Hexapeptide Longicatenamides
Authors: Liu Chao , Hashimoto Junko , Kudo Kei , Shin‐ya Kazuo , Kakeya Hideaki
Published: April 2021

The incorporation of non‐proteinogenic amino acids (NPAAs) enriches the structural diversity of nonribosomal peptides. Recently, four NPAA‐containing cyclic hexapeptides, longicatenamides A−D, were isolated using a combined‐culture strategy. Based on in silico analysis, we discovered their putative biosynthetic gene cluster (lon) and proposed a possible biosynthetic mechanism. Surprisingly, the lon22 gene encodes an atypical arginine dihydrolase, which can also catalyze the hydrolysis of citrulline to ornithine. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Lon22‐like proteins form a novel clade that is separated from other guanidine‐modifying enzymes. After rational design, the catalytic efficiencies of a Lon22 Y80F mutant for arginine and citrulline substrates were 2.31‐ and 4.70‐fold that of the wild‐type (WT), respectively. In addition, characterization of the Lon20‐A4 adenylation domain suggested that it can incorporate both ornithine and lysine into the final products.
Pillar Effect in Ni‐rich Cathode of Li‐Ion Battery by NH3 Thermal Treatment
Authors: Lee Geun Jun , Abbas Muhammad Awais , Bang Jin Ho
Published: April 2021

Ni‐rich layered LiNixMnyCozO2 (NCM) materials are used in lithium‐ion batteries because of their high cathode capacity. The high nickel content, however, usually leads to severe capacity fading and structural collapse after repeated charging and discharging. To mitigate these problems, we heat‐treated NCM in an NH3 atmosphere to form Ni2+ pillars between Li layers. The Ni2+ pillars improve the cycling stability of NCM by alleviating degradation of the Li layer. This is a simple and effective method for improving the stability of Ni‐rich NCM.
The nature of fair trade exchanges and their outcomes: Producer voices in Vietnam and India
Authors: Salignac Fanny , Bhatia Bhanu , Tallontire Anne
Published: April 2021

This paper brings insights to Fair Trade exchanges by casting commodities beyond material and pecuniary gains to include interpersonal relations. Although numerous studies have highlighted that Fair Trade brings benefits beyond the economic, the process through which ‘material things’ may become imbued with non‐pecuniary value remains under‐explored. Our analysis of interviews with Fairtrade certified smallholder farmers in Vietnam and in India provides insight into the discursive constructs of their participation in Fair Trade exchanges. Social exchange theory enables us to reconceptualise exchanges in the Fairtrade market to take into account interpersonal processes and long‐term relations of exchange between actors. We find that Fair Trade is associated with benefits to both community and individuals and that these are intertwined and linked to participation in a democratic process in the cooperative. The pecuniary and non‐pecuniary value generated and sustained by farmer democratic organizations needs to be recognised by Fairtrade importing businesses.
Process Modeling, Identification Methods, and Control Schemes for Nonlinear Physical Systems – A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Xavier Joanofarc , Patnaik S. K. , Panda Rames C.
Published: April 2021

A state‐of‐the‐art review on various identification schemes proposed for the Hammerstein, Wiener, and Volterra systems is presented with respect to the special problems arising in the identification of unknown nonlinear systems. Past and recent developments in the field of nonlinear system identification, parameter estimation, and nonlinear control schemes along with the nonlinearity issues are also deeply investigated. A comprehensive analysis on various parameter estimation approaches and nonlinear control laws are made adding credit to the noteworthy contributions, constructive arguments, and remarkable breakthroughs of researchers in various research fields. The application of most popular nonlinear control strategies for many nonlinear systems in the existing literature are presented spotlighting their merits and major shortcomings. The challenges faced in the nonlinear control field and their emergences to future directions are projected.
Effect of Si/Al Ratio in the Faujasite Structure on Adsorption of Methane and Nitrogen: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Moradi Hojatollah , Azizpour Hedayat , Bahmanyar Hossein , Rezamandi Nariman , Zahedi Payam
Published: April 2021

Adsorption of methane and nitrogen, in pure and mixture states, on faujasite (FAU) zeolite was investigated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. FAU zeolite with Si/Al ratios of 1, 2, and 3 was tested to evaluate the effect of changes in the zeolite structure. Adsorption isotherms of methane and nitrogen were derived using MD simulation with COMPASS force field at various temperatures and pressures and the results were compared with experimental data. Methane/nitrogen selectivity was calculated to analyze the separation performance of FAU zeolite. Under all tested conditions, the calculated selectivities were higher than 2, which was in the acceptable range for separation. Diffusivity of the gases in the zeolite structure was assessed using mean square displacement analysis. The results demonstrated that a lower Si/Al ratio in the FAU structure yield higher methane adsorption.
Fundamental Characterization, Photophysics and Photocatalysis of a Base Metal Iron(II)‐Cobalt(III) Dyad
Authors: Huber‐Gedert Marina , Nowakowski Michał , Kertmen Ahmet , Burkhardt Lukas , Lindner Natalia , Schoch Roland , Herbst‐Irmer Regine , Neuba Adam , Schmitz Lennart , Choi Tae‐Kyu , Kubicki Jacek , Gawelda Wojciech , Bauer Matthias
Published: April 2021

A new base metal iron‐cobalt dyad has been obtained by connection between a heteroleptic tetra‐NHC iron(II) photosensitizer combining a 2,6‐bis[3‐(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)imidazol‐2‐ylidene]pyridine with 2,6‐bis(3‐methyl‐imidazol‐2‐ylidene)‐4,4′‐bipyridine ligand, and a cobaloxime catalyst. This novel iron(II)‐cobalt(III) assembly has been extensively characterized by ground‐ and excited‐state methods like X‐ray crystallography, X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, (spectro‐)electrochemistry, and steady‐state and time‐resolved optical absorption spectroscopy, with a particular focus on the stability of the molecular assembly in solution and determination of the excited‐state landscape. NMR and UV/Vis spectroscopy reveal dissociation of the dyad in acetonitrile at concentrations below 1 mM and high photostability. Transient absorption spectroscopy after excitation into the metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer absorption band suggests a relaxation cascade originating from hot singlet and triplet MLCT states, leading to the population of the 3MLCT state that exhibits the longest lifetime. Finally, decay into the ground state involves a 3MC state. Attachment of cobaloxime to the iron photosensitizer increases the 3MLCT lifetime at the iron centre. Together with the directing effect of the linker, this potentially makes the dyad more active in photocatalytic proton reduction experiments than the analogous two‐component system, consisting of the iron photosensitizer and Co(dmgH)2(py)Cl. This work thus sheds new light on the functionality of base metal dyads, which are important for more efficient and sustainable future proton reduction systems.
Cooperative Ligands in Dissolution of Gold
Authors: Heliövaara Eeva , Liljeqvist Henri , Muuronen Mikko , Eronen Aleksi , Moslova Karina , Repo Timo
Published: April 2021

Development of new, environmentally benign dissolution methods for metallic gold is driven by needs in the circular economy. Gold is widely used in consumer electronics, but sustainable and selective dissolution methods for Au are scarce. Herein, we describe a quantitative dissolution of gold in organic solution under mild conditions by using hydrogen peroxide as an oxidant. In the dissolution reaction, two thiol ligands, pyridine‐4‐thiol and 2‐mercaptobenzimidazole, work in a cooperative manner. The mechanistic investigations suggest that two pyridine‐4‐thiol molecules form a complex with Au0 that can be oxidized, whereas the role of inexpensive 2‐mercaptobenzimidazole is to stabilize the formed AuI species through a ligand exchange process. Under optimized conditions, the reaction proceeds vigorously and gold dissolves quantitatively in two hours. The demonstrated ligand‐exchange mechanism with two thiols allows to drastically reduce the thiol consumption and may lead to even more effective gold dissolution methods in the future.
Conjugated Polymers with Aggregation‐Induced Emission Characteristics for Fluorescence Imaging and Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Wang Lirong , Hu Rong , Qin Anjun , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: April 2021

Accurate diagnosis and treatment have been extensively developed in the field of biomedicine, which put forward higher requirements for the development of biomedical materials with high efficiency and selectivity. Among them, conjugated polymers featuring aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) characteristics (AIE conjugated polymers) have stood out in recent years owing to their unique properties, such as intense solid emission, high light‐harvesting ability, efficient energy transfer, and high 1O2 generation ability, which empower them with effective biomedical functions in fluorescence imaging (FLI), photodynamic therapy (PDT), FLI‐guided PDT, two‐photon excited photodynamic therapy (2PE‐PDT), etc. In this review, we highlight recent progress in AIE conjugated polymers and their applications in anticancer and antibacterial areas based on FLI and PDT, and summarize the mechanism of color‐tuned fluorescence emission and efficient 1O2 generation ability. The challenges and perspectives for the future development of AIE conjugated polymers are also discussed.
CogramDroid–An approach towards malware detection in Android using opcode ngrams
Authors: Bhat Parnika , Dutta Kamlesh
Published: April 2021

The recent increase in Android's popularity has resulted in a swamp of attacks faced by the platform. Several researchers have come out with various static malware detection tools using opcodes as features since opcodes provide the details of intrinsic patterns of application raw data. This article presents a new malware detection approach CogramDroid based on opcode ngrams. The approach classifies the applications based on the relative frequency patterns of the opcode ngrams using the concept of word cooccurrence of natural language processing. The objective of the article is to develop a malware detection approach with high accuracy and time efficiency. The article also presents an analysis of the number of opcodes required for effective malware detection. In this study, an accuracy rate of 96.22% and an F1‐score of 96.69% is achieved using seven core opcodes and three grams.
Rational Clinical Dose Selection of Adeno‐Associated Virus‐Mediated Gene Therapy Based on Allometric Principles
Authors: Tang Fei , Wong Harvey , Ng Chee M.
Published: April 2021

One of the challenges in translational medicine is to select first‐in‐human doses of investigational drugs based on findings in preclinical studies. Despite substantial progress in the optimization of recombinant adeno‐associated virus (AAV) vectors of in vivo gene therapy for treating various diseases, there remain significant limitations to the use of preclinical data to guide dose selection in clinical trials. Here we introduce a novel concept of gene efficiency factor (GEF) to describe the efficiency of the gene transfer system and describe and apply the concept of GEF in AAV‐mediated in vivo gene transfer systems. We explore the utility of allometric scaling to translate GEF across species using AAV‐mediated in vivo factor IX (FIX) gene therapy for hemophilia B and to demonstrate the use of GEF in predicting efficacious AAV vector doses in humans. We show for the first time that an allometric relationship exists for GEF of AAV‐mediated in vivo gene therapy. Furthermore, we demonstrate the feasibility of using the allometric relationship of GEF to select efficacious first‐in‐human doses of virus‐mediated invivo gene therapy. Based on our findings, allometry of GEF can be used to translate biological efficiency from animal studies to clinical studies and provide a rational basis of setting first‐in‐human doses for new virus‐mediated invivo gene therapy products.
Treat youth anxiety and depression with brief therapy in primary care
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: April 2021

Transdiagnostic therapy — in which the same kind of treatment is used for more than one diagnosis — is cost‐effective for young people with anxiety and depression when done in primary care, compared with referral to community outpatient mental health care, a recent study has found.
The effects of green supply chain management capability on the internalisation of environmental management systems and organisation performance
Authors: Daddi Tiberio , Heras‐Saizarbitoria Iñaki , Marrucci Luca , Rizzi Francesco , Testa Francesco
Published: April 2021

The capability to manage the supply chain is a key issue in general management as well as green management. The topic has been widely discussed in the literature, however only few studies focused on how this capability could influence the effectiveness of certified Environmental Management Systems. To bridge this gap, we administered a survey with more than 400 EU EMAS‐registered companies in order to investigate the relation between green supply chain management capability and some key organisational performance such as environmental management system internalisation, environmental reputation, eco‐innovation and market competitiveness. The results show a positive influence of green supply chain management capability on performance through the mediating role of the internalisation of environmental management system and directly on market competitiveness. The study opens the floor on further academic debates on green supply chain management capability in environmental management systems and it identifies possible managerial and policy implications.
Cross‐Talk‐Suppressing Electrolyte Additive Enabling High Voltage Performance of Ni‐Rich Layered Oxides in Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Pham Hieu Quang , Nguyen Minh Tri , Tarik Mohamed , El Kazzi Mario , Trabesinger Sigita
Published: April 2021

Control of electrode‐electrolyte interfacial reactivity at high‐voltage is a key to successfully obtain high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries. In this study, 2‐aminoethyldiphenyl borate (AEDB) is investigated as a multifunctional electrolyte additive in stabilizing surface and bulk of both Ni‐rich LiNi0.85Co0.1Mn0.05O2 (NCM851005) and graphite electrodes in a cell operated with elevated upper cutoff voltage of 4.4 V vs. Li+/Li. The presence of AEDB in a full‐cell inhibits structural degradation of both cathode and anode materials, suppressing crack formation, and reduces metal dissolution at the cathode and metal deposition at the anode. As a consequence, the interfacial resistance is significantly reduced. Moreover, this is a case where “the whole is greater than the sum of the parts”: the effect of AEDB in half‐cells is rather modest, whereas in full‐cells its addition results in tremendous performance improvement. The graphite‖NCM851005 full‐cell in the presence of AEDB has a capacity retention of 88 % after 100 cycles, even when the upper cutoff voltage is set to 4.35 V, corresponding to 4.4 V vs Li+/Li, whereas with standard electrolyte under the same conditions it is only 21 %. The study shows a simple and easy approach to using Ni‐rich cathodes in an extended voltage window and demonstrates the importance of full‐cell testing for electrolyte additive selection.
Tunnel FET‐based ultra‐lightweight reconfigurable TRNG and PUF design for resource‐constrained internet of things
Authors: Japa Aditya , Majumder Manoj Kumar , Sahoo Subhendu K. , Vaddi Ramesh
Published: April 2021

Conventional complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS)‐based dedicated true random number generator (TRNG) and physically unclonable function (PUF) designs have exhibited higher energy consumption and large area overhead with technology scaling. In contrast, this paper for the first time presents emerging tunnel field‐effect transistor (TFET)‐based ultra‐lightweight reconfigurable TRNG and PUF design. A unique methodology is proposed that considers p‐i‐n forward current characteristics to generate random keys for PUF and TRNG designs. Leveraging the p‐i‐n forward current of TFET, a ring oscillator (RO) is designed that exhibits variation in the operating frequency and acts as the main source of entropy for both PUF and TRNG. The TRNG in the proposed design is robust and passed all the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) tests. Considering the variation in p‐i‐n forward current, the uniqueness of PUF is calculated as 47.5% and 46% at a supply voltage of 0.5 and 0.45 V, respectively. Moreover, PUF achieves high reliability of 82% and 88.7% with supply voltage and temperature variations, respectively. The proposed design is proved to be compact with relatively lower gate count and shows low energy consumption of 4.8 pJ/bit at 0.5‐V supply voltage. With these performance metrics, the proposed design is highly suitable for resource‐constrained internet of things (IoT).
Aspects of unmanned aerial vehicles path planning: Overview and applications
Authors: Khan Muhammad Toaha Raza , Muhammad Saad Malik , Ru Yang , Seo Junho , Kim Dongkyun
Published: April 2021

Aiming to the applications from security surveillance, military operational capabilities to the content and package delivery, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has a successfully created his space in the available technologies. The compact sized powerful flying robots are wirelessly controlled and are capable to complete tasks with and without direct human intervention. UAVs however still face serious challenges that limit the dream of complete autonomous unmanned flying machines. The key challenges include path planning and obstacle avoidance of these unmanned flying robots that are unavoidable while performing the application‐specific functionalities both in indoor and outdoor environments. In this manuscript with a survey, we investigate the state‐of‐the‐art UAV path planning algorithms and obstacle avoidance techniques. We have also summarized and compared the schemes in tabular form. In addition, current and future research directions and challenges are also discussed, showing the prospective research directions.
Histopathological comparison of aspiration and biopsy needles in endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition in patients with subepithelial lesions
Authors: Watanabe Masafumi , Okuwaki Kosuke , Kida Mitsuhiro , Tadehara Masayoshi , Adachi Kai , Masutani Hironori , Tamaki Akihiro , Imaizumi Hiroshi , Iwai Tomohisa , Yamauchi Hiroshi , Kaneko Toru , Hasegawa Rikiya , Kurosu Takahiro , Koizumi Wasaburo
Published: April 2021

Background

Information on whether a fine‐needle biopsy (FNB) needle can improve histopathological specimen quality or the amount of core tissue collected in the diagnosis of subepithelial lesions (SELs) remains insufficient. In this study, we aimed to compare the procedure outcomes and adequacy of histopathological specimens of fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) and FNB needles in endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition (EUS‐TA) using sample isolation processing by stereomicroscopy (SIPS) in patients with SELs.

Methods

We performed a retrospective comparison of SEL cases registered in two previously conducted prospective studies. Of 61 cases, we identified 56 cases of SELs that involved the muscularis propria layer. Of these, 27 patients who underwent EUS‐TA using a 22‐gauge FNA needle between July 2016 and December 2017, and 29 patients who underwent the procedure using a 22‐gauge FNB needle between March 2018 and January 2019 were included in the FNA and FNB group, respectively.

Results

Patient background characteristics did not differ between the groups. The technical success rate was 100% in both groups. The median adequacy score was significantly higher in the FNB group than in the FNA group (P < .01). The histological diagnosis showed no significant difference in the accuracy rate between the groups.

Conclusions

In EUS‐TA using the SIPS procedure to target SELs derived from the muscularis propria layer, FNB needles collect more core tissues and significantly improve histopathological specimen quality compared with FNA needles. When combined with SIPS, a high tissue diagnosis rate may be obtained regardless of the type of puncture needle used.