bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Closest Packing Polymorphism Interfaced Metastable Transition Metal for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Tan Xinyue , Geng Shize , Ji Yujin , Shao Qi , Zhu Ting , Wang Pengtang , Li Youyong , Huang Xiaoqing
Published: August 2020

Metastable materials are promising because of their catalytic properties, high‐energy structure, and unique electronic environment. However, the unstable nature inherited from the metastability hinders further performance improvement and practical applications of these materials. Herein, this limitation is successfully addressed by constructing an in situ polymorphism interface (inf) between the metastable hexagonal‐close‐packed (hcp) phase and its stable counterpart (face‐centered cubic, fcc) in cobalt–nickel (CoNi) alloy. Calculations reveal that the interfacial synergism derived from the hcp and fcc phases lowers the formation energy and enhances stability. Consequently, the optimized CoNi‐inf exhibits an exceptionally low potential of 72 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a Tafel slope of 57 mV dec−1 for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in 1.0 m KOH. Furthermore, it is superior to most state‐of‐the‐art non‐noble‐metal‐based HER catalysts. No noticeable activity decay or structural changes are observed even over 14 h of catalysis. The computational simulation further rationalizes that the interface of CoNi‐inf with a suitable d‐band center provides uniform sites for hydrogen adsorption, leading to a distinguished HER catalytic activity. This work, therefore, presents a new route for designing metastable catalysts for potential energy conversion.
Zwitterionic 3D‐Printed Non‐Immunogenic Stealth Microrobots
Authors: Cabanach Pol , Pena‐Francesch Abdon , Sheehan Devin , Bozuyuk Ugur , Yasa Oncay , Borros Salvador , Sitti Metin
Published: August 2020

Microrobots offer transformative solutions for non‐invasive medical interventions due to their small size and untethered operation inside the human body. However, they must face the immune system as a natural protection mechanism against foreign threats. Here, non‐immunogenic stealth zwitterionic microrobots that avoid recognition from immune cells are introduced. Fully zwitterionic photoresists are developed for two‐photon polymerization 3D microprinting of hydrogel microrobots with ample functionalization: tunable mechanical properties, anti‐biofouling and non‐immunogenic properties, functionalization for magnetic actuation, encapsulation of biomolecules, and surface functionalization for drug delivery. Stealth microrobots avoid detection by macrophage cells of the innate immune system after exhaustive inspection (>90 hours), which has not been achieved in any microrobotic platform to date. These versatile zwitterionic materials eliminate a major roadblock in the development of biocompatible microrobots, and will serve as a toolbox of non‐immunogenic materials for medical microrobot and other device technologies for bioengineering and biomedical applications.
4D‐Printed Transformable Tube Array for High‐Throughput 3D Cell Culture and Histology
Authors: Yang Chen , Luo Jeffrey , Polunas Marianne , Bosnjak Nikola , Chueng Sy‐Tsong Dean , Chadwick Michelle , Sabaawy Hatem E. , Chester Shawn A. , Lee Ki‐Bum , Lee Howon
Published: August 2020

3D cell cultures are rapidly emerging as a promising tool to model various human physiologies and pathologies by closely recapitulating key characteristics and functions of in vivo microenvironment. While high‐throughput 3D culture is readily available using multi‐well plates, assessing the internal microstructure of 3D cell cultures still remains extremely slow because of the manual, laborious, and time‐consuming histological procedures. Here, a 4D‐printed transformable tube array (TTA) using a shape‐memory polymer that enables massively parallel histological analysis of 3D cultures is presented. The interconnected TTA can be programmed to be expanded by 3.6 times of its printed dimension to match the size of a multi‐well plate, with the ability to restore its original dimension for transferring all cultures to a histology cassette in order. Being compatible with microtome sectioning, the TTA allows for parallel histology processing for the entire samples cultured in a multi‐well plate. The test result with human neural progenitor cell spheroids suggests a remarkable reduction in histology processing time by an order of magnitude. High‐throughput analysis of 3D cultures enabled by this TTA has great potential to further accelerate innovations in various 3D culture applications such as high‐throughput/content screening, drug discovery, disease modeling, and personalized medicine.
Molybdenum Boride as an Efficient Catalyst for Polysulfide Redox to Enable High‐Energy‐Density Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: He Jiarui , Bhargav Amruth , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: August 2020

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries, despite having high theoretical specific energy, possess many practical challenges, including lithium polysulfide (LiPS) shuttling. To address the issues, here, hydrophilic molybdenum boride (MoB) nanoparticles are presented as an efficient catalytic additive for sulfur cathodes. The high conductivity and rich catalytically active sites of MoB nanoparticles allow for a fast kinetics of LiPS redox in high‐sulfur‐loading electrodes (6.1 mg cm−2). Besides, the hydrophilic properties and good wettability toward electrolyte of MoB can facilitate electrolyte penetration and LiPS redox, guaranteeing a high utilization of sulfur under a lean‐electrolyte condition. Therefore, the cells with MoB achieve impressive electrochemical performance, including a high capacity (1253 mA h g−1) and ultralong lifespan (1000 cycles) with a low capacity fade rate of 0.03% per cycle. Also, pouch cells fabricated with the MoB additive deliver an ultrahigh discharge capacity of 947 mA h g−1, corresponding to a low electrolyte‐to‐capacity ratio of about 4.8 µL (mA h)−1, and remain stable over 55 cycles under practically necessary conditions with a low electrolyte‐to‐sulfur ratio of 4.5 µL mg−1.
High Electrochemical Activity Induced by Doping Oxygen in Graphene Sheets Embedded Carbon Film
Authors: Cao Yuanyuan , Huang Liangliang , Diao Dongfeng
Published: August 2020

In this work, the high electrochemical activity induced by doping different contents of oxygen on the surface of graphene sheets embedded carbon (GSEC) film is studied, which is prepared by electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) plasma sputtering system under electron irradiation. Transmission electron microscopy observation and Raman analysis confirm that doping oxygen induced more graphene edges and oxygen‐containing functional groups on the surface. The electrochemical activities of the films are measured in the redox system and the results show that a proper doping content of oxygen is beneficial to reduce the oxidation‐reduction peak separation. The surface O‐doped GSEC film with 5% content realizes the simultaneous detection of uric acid (UA), xanthine (XA) and hypoxanthine (HXA) with high sensitivity. The mechanism could be that the isolated electron at graphene edge and the polar fraction of oxygen‐containing functional groups provide more active sites to accelerate the electron transfer. These results indicate that surface O‐doped GSEC films are promising electrode materials to construct sensitive electrochemical biosensors.
Enhancing Conversion Efficiency and Storage Capacity of a Thermally Self‐Chargeable Supercapacitor
Authors: Meng Tingting , Xuan Yimin
Published: August 2020

Waste heat utilization, including solar heat and various industrial waste heats, plays an important role in improving energy efficiency, but current heat‐to‐electricity conversion technologies can only harvest a little heat energy. A new direct thermally self‐chargeable supercapacitor (TCS) system, using the nanoporous carbon electrode in electrolyte mixed with nanoparticles, can simultaneously produce and store electric energy from a low‐grade heat source. Moreover, it can simultaneously realize charging and discharging processes. A method of strengthening ions migration by adding nanoparticles into electrolytes is proposed. When heated, due to the Brownian motion of suspended nanoparticles and the interactions among ions and nanoparticles, more ions migrate to the hot electrode, which leads to a high thermal‐induced open‐circuit voltage (OCV) of 265 mV, under a mild temperature difference of 50 K. This new type of TCS system attains a thermoelectric coefficient of 5.3 mV K−1 and outperforms other conventional TCS systems in which liquid electrolytes are involved.
Facile Fabrication Method of Conical Microwells Using Non‐Uniform Photolithography
Authors: Manzoor Ahmad Ali , Hwang Dae Kun
Published: August 2020

Microwells have emerged as a popular trapping platform for numerous biological applications because of their ease of use. 3D shaped microwells, such as conical wells other than a simple 2D profile, have received great attention because of their excellent capacity for the formation of 3D cancer spheroids. However, creating such conical microwells require a complex fabrication process, laborious procedures, and specialized equipment. Herein, a facile and single‐step fabrication technique is developed to make microwells with a tapered‐bottom. In this approach, non‐uniform polymerization is implemented during photolithography to create conical microwells of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate on a glass substrate in a PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) microfluidic channel. The non‐cylindrical shape forms through the UV exposure and further develops during the washing step by the removal of excess unpolymerized monomer from the PDMS microfluidic channel. In combination with the non‐uniform photopolymerization, this washing process results in microwells with 3D conical forms, offering control over shape and homogeneity. Notably, the technique allows additional control over the microwells surface morphology, that is, wrinkled and smooth surfaces. Finally, the effect of ethanol flow rates on the pore size is investigated.
Alkali‐Metal Sulfide as Cathodes toward Safe and High‐Capacity Metal (M = Li, Na, K) Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Yang Huiling , Zhang Binwei , Wang Yun‐Xiao , Konstantinov Konstantin , Liu Hua‐Kun , Dou Shi‐Xue
Published: August 2020

Rechargeable alkali‐metal–sulfur (M–S) batteries, because of their high energy density and low cost, have been recognized as one of the most promising next‐generation energy storage technologies. Nevertheless, the dissolution of metal polysulfides in organic liquid electrolytes and safety issues related to the metal anodes are greatly hindering the development of the M–S batteries. Alkali‐metal sulfides (M2Sx) are emerging as cathode materials, which can pair with various safe nonalkali‐metal anodes, such as silicon and tin. As a result, the combined M2Sx cathode‐based M–S batteries can achieve high capacity as well as safety, thereby providing a more feasible battery technology for practical applications. In this review, recent progress in developing M2Sx cathode‐based M–S batteries is systematically summarized, including the activation methods for M2Sx cathodes, M2Sx cathode optimization, and the improvement of electrolytes and anode materials. Furthermore, perspectives and future research directions of M2Sx cathode‐based M–S batteries are proposed.
Superparaelectric (Ba0.95,Sr0.05)(Zr0.2,Ti0.8)O3 Ultracapacitors
Authors: Wang Kun , Ouyang Jun , Wuttig Manfred , Zhao Yu‐Yao , Cheng Hongbo , Zhang Yuan , Su Rongxuan , Yan Jing , Zhong Xiangli , Zeng Fei
Published: August 2020

Analogous to the superparamagnetic state, a superparaelectric state is both scientifically intriguing and technologically important. In this state, a ferroelectric material shows a high dielectric constant and a nonhysteretic response to an external electric field, ideal for high k and capacitive energy storage applications. Despite many explorative studies, only circumstantial evidences for its existence are reported. Here, the existence of a superparaelectric state is directly proven in engineered nanocrystalline perovskite films of (Ba0.95, Sr0.05)(Zr0.2,Ti0.8)O3, which are grown on Si at a low temperature and consist of many well‐dispersed, nanometer‐size polar clusters. These nanoparticles are locally polar, and only lose their short‐range order after being heated up to ≈460 °C, above which they become paraelectrics. Furthermore, they collectively present a pseudo‐linear, frequency‐insensitive dielectric response, which is characterized by a close‐to‐zero remnant polarization and a large relative dielectric constant (≈65–70). Capacitors based on these superparaelectric films display high recyclable energy densities (≈100 J cm−3) and efficiencies (≈90%) at room temperature, as well as a reliable high field endurance and good frequency (up to ≈15 GHz) and temperature (up to ≈300 °C) stabilities in their dielectric properties.
Dual‐Functional Atomic Zinc Decorated Hollow Carbon Nanoreactors for Kinetically Accelerated Polysulfides Conversion and Dendrite Free Lithium Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Shi Haodong , Ren Xiaomin , Lu Jianmin , Dong Cong , Liu Jian , Yang Qihua , Chen Jian , Wu Zhong‐Shuai
Published: August 2020

The lithium sulfur (Li–S) battery is a preferential option for next‐generation energy storage technologies, but the lithium polysulfide shuttling, sluggish redox kinetics, and uncontrollable lithium dendrite growth hamper its commercial viability. Herein, well‐dispersed single atom Zn‐decorated hollow carbon spheres (Zn1‐HNC) are developed as dual‐functional nanoreactors for polysulfides‐suppressed sulfur cathodes (Zn1‐HNC‐S) and dendrite‐free lithium anodes (Zn1‐HNC‐Li) simultaneously for high‐capacity, high‐rate, and long‐cycling Li–S batteries with fast redox kinetics. Benefiting from its excellent electronic conductivity, high surface area (370 m2 g−1), highly‐effective active sites and protective carbon shell, the resultant nanoreactor possesses strong physical confinement, chemical anchoring, and exceptional electrocatalysis for polysulfides. Meanwhile, the nanoreactor with excellent lithiophilic ability realizes uniform and dendrite‐free lithium deposition. Integrating all these advantages, the assembled full battery (Zn1‐HNC‐S||Zn1‐HNC‐Li) delivers remarkable electrochemical properties including long cycle stability with an ultralow capacity fading rate of 0.015% per cycle over 700 cycles and superb rate performance of 989 mAh g−1 at 10 C. Moreover, a high areal capacity of 8.7 mAh cm−2 with high S loading of 7.8 mg cm−2 at low E/S ratio (6.4 µL mg−1) is achieved. This work provides significant insight of structure and surface catalytic chemistry regulation for promoting the actual application of Li–S batteries.
In vitro seed germination response of corn hybrids to osmotic stress conditions
Authors: Walne Charles Hunt , Gaudin Annabeth , Henry W. Brien , Reddy Kambham Raja
Published: August 2020

Drought is a major environmental stress factor of plants influencing all growth stages. Drought occurring during germination affects both germination percentage and rate. An experiment was conducted to evaluate in vitro seed germination responses of nine corn (Zea mays L.) hybrids to declining osmotic potentials using polyethylene glycol. Time series data for seed germination were generated at different osmotic potentials from 0 to −1.2 MPa at −0.3‐MPa intervals at 25 °C. Maximum seed germination (MSG) and seed germination rate (SGR) were estimated by fitting the data to a three‐parameter sigmoid function. The minimum osmotic potentials at which MSG and SGR rate reached zero (MSGbase and SGRbase) were derived by first fitting linear and quadratic regression models as a function of osmotic potential and then calculating intercepts. Maximum seed germination and SGR decreased as osmotic potential decreased, and differences were identified among hybrids for MSG, SGR, MSGbase, and SGRbase. An osmotic stress response index was developed by summing individual response indices of each parameter for each hybrid and was used to classify the corn hybrids into tolerance groups. AgriGold A6659 and Terral REV 25BHR26 were identified as the most‐ and least‐tolerant corn hybrids during germination, with AgriGold A6659 performing 29% better than REV 25BHR26. Previous studies have used similar methods using polyethylene glycol to create osmotic stress but have not used the parameters used in this study. These parameters establish a new potential screening tool to identify osmotic stress tolerance in corn germplasm.
Power generation from waste heat: Ionic liquid‐based absorption cycle versus organic Rankine cycle
Authors: Xu Jiaming , Scurto Aaron M. , Shiflett Mark B. , Lustig Steven R. , Hung Francisco R.
Published: August 2020

Aspen Plus® simulations using the Peng‐Robinson (PR‐EOS) and the COSMO‐SAC models were performed to study absorption power cycles (APCs) using mixtures of R‐134a with two ionic liquids, [C2C1im][Tf2N] or [C6C1im][Tf2N], and compared against an R‐134a organic Rankine cycle (ORC) operating under similar conditions. The PR‐EOS results were in agreement with calculations from a PR model fitted to the R‐134a + IL experimental phase equilibrium data. The APCs have similar efficiencies and outperform the ORC by 3%–46%, with the largest differences observed when operating with lower grade (lower TH) heating sources, lower quality cooling (higher TL), and lower subcooling in the pump inlet stream. The PR‐EOS and the Conductor‐like Screening Model Segment Activity Coefficient (COSMO‐SAC) results follow similar trends, but numerical discrepancies are observed in the cycle efficiencies and stream flow rates and compositions due to differences in solubilities and enthalpy changes between both models, suggesting that improvements are needed to increase the accuracy of COSMO‐SAC for these systems.
Simultaneous design and operation optimization of renewable combined cooling heating and power systems
Authors: Liu Zuming , Lim Mei Qi , Kraft Markus , Wang Xiaonan
Published: August 2020

Combined cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) systems are promising solutions for conserving energy and reducing emissions. This article proposes a new mixed‐integer linear programming (MILP) model for simultaneous design and operation optimization of a renewable CCHP system, considering component nonlinear operating characteristics and performance degradation with time. A bi‐objective MILP problem is solved to achieve a trade‐off between total annual cost (TAC) and greenhouse gas emissions (GHGe). A case study of a commercial region is employed to demonstrate our proposed methodology. The results shows, in comparison with conventional cost minimization, our solution features a tardy increase of 12.8% in TAC and a sharp reduction of 75.5% in GHGe. Moreover, we find that ignoring performance degradation leads to an over‐estimation of 2.3–13.7% in system economic performance. The proposed methodology provides an effective and flexible framework for optimal design and operational analysis of renewable CCHP systems.
Mechanisms of severe dieback and mortality in a classically drought‐tolerant shrubland species (Arctostaphylos glauca)
Authors: Drake‐Schultheis Laura , Oono Ryoko , D’Antonio Carla M.
Published: August 2020

Premise

Mortality events involving drought and pathogens in natural plant systems are on the rise due to global climate change. In Santa Barbara, California, United States, big berry manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca) has experienced canopy dieback related to a multi‐year drought and infection from fungal pathogens in the Botryosphaeriaceae family. A greenhouse experiment was conducted usingNeofusicoccum australeto test the specific influences of drought and fungal infection onA. glauca.

Methods

A full factorial design was used to compare four treatment groups (drought + inoculation; drought – inoculation; watering + inoculation; and control: watering – inoculation). Data were collected for 10 weeks on stress symptoms, changes in leaf fluorescence and photosynthesis, and mortality.

Results

Results indicated significant effects of watering and inoculation treatments on net photosynthesis, dark‐adapted fluorescence, and disease symptom severity (P< 0.05), and a strong correlation was found between physiological decline and visible stress (P< 0.0001). Mortality differed between treatments, with all groups except for the control experiencing mortality (43% mortality in drought – inoculation, 83% in watering – inoculation, and 100% in drought + inoculation). A Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed drought + inoculation to have the least estimated survivorship compared to all other treatment groups.

Conclusions

In addition to a possible synergistic interaction between drought and fungal infection in disease onset and mortality rates inA. glauca, these results indicate that young, non‐drought‐stressed plants are susceptible to mortality fromN. australeinfection, with important implications for the future of wildland shrub communities.
Together Helping Reduce Youth Violence for Equity (ThrYve): Examining the Development of a Comprehensive Multisectoral Approach to Youth Violence Prevention
Authors: Watson‐Thompson Jomella , Jessop Nadia , Hassaballa Ithar , Vanchy Priya , Henderson Janee , Moore Courtney
Published: August 2020

Comprehensive approaches to youth violence prevention are needed to simultaneously address multiple risk factors across socioecological levels. ThrYve (Together Helping Reduce Youth Violence for Equity) is a collaborative initiative focused on addressing broader factors influencing youth violence, including social determinants of health. Using a participatory approach, the development of ThrYve is examined through an empirical case study. Through a Systems Advisory Board (SAB), ThrYve deploys multiple strategies that support cross‐sector collaboration involving over 40 partners across 13 community sectors. Based on the Institute of Medicine’s model for public health action in communities, the SAB identified 87 change levers (i.e., program, policy, practice changes) to support community and systems‐level improvements. As a result of the collaborative process, in the first couple of years, ThrYve facilitated 85 community actions and changes across sectors. The changes aligned with identified risk and resilience needs of the youth served in the community. The findings further support prior research, which suggests disparities related to gender may influence risk and resilience factors for youth violence. The study also indicates the importance of continuing to examine academic performance as a factor related to youth resilience.
A Strategy for Constructing Pore‐Space‐Partitioned MOFs with High Uptake Capacity for C2 Hydrocarbons and CO2
Authors: Wang Yong , Jia Xiaoxia , Yang Huajun , Wang Yanxiang , Chen Xitong , Hong Anh N. , Li Jinping , Bu Xianhui , Feng Pingyun
Published: August 2020

Introduction of pore partition agents into hexagonal channels of MIL‐88 type (acs topology) endows materials with high tunability in gas sorption. Here, we report a strategy to partition acs framework into pacs (partitioned acs) crystalline porous materials (CPM). This strategy is based on insertion of in situ synthesized 4,4′‐dipyridylsulfide (dps) ligands. One third of open metal sites in the acs net are retained in pacs MOFs; two thirds are used for pore‐space partition. The Co2V‐pacs MOFs exhibit near or at record high uptake capacities for C2H2, C2H4, C2H6, and CO2 among MOFs. The storage capacity of C2H2 is 234 cm3 g−1 (298 K) and 330 cm3 g−1 (273 K) at 1 atm for CPM‐733‐dps (the Co2V‐BDC form, BDC=1,4‐benzenedicarboxylate). These high uptake capacities are accomplished with low heat of adsorption, a feature desirable for low‐energy‐cost adsorbent regeneration. CPM‐733‐dps is stable and shows no loss of C2H2 adsorption capacity following multiple adsorption–desorption cycles.
Beyond the Classical Electron‐Sharing and Dative Bond Picture: Case of the Spin‐Polarized Bond
Authors: Salvador Pedro , Vos Eva , Corral Inés , Andrada Diego M.
Published: August 2020

Chemical bonds are traditionally assigned as electron‐sharing or donor‐acceptor/dative. External criteria such as the nature of the dissociation process, energy partitioning schemes, or quantum chemical topology are invoked to assess the bonding situation. However, for systems with marked multi‐reference character, this binary categorization might not be precise enough to render the bonding properties. A third scenario can be foreseen: spin polarized bonds. To illustrate this, the case of a NaBH3−cluster is presented. According to the analysis NaBH3−exhibits a strong diradical character and cannot be classified as either electron‐sharing or a dative bond. Elaborated upon are the common problems of popular bonding descriptions. Additionally, a simple model, based on the bond order and local spin indicators, which discriminates between all three bonding situations, is provided.
Defect Engineering in Metastable Phases of Transition‐Metal Dichalcogenides for Electrochemical Applications
Authors: Wang Ran , Han Jiecai , Yang Bo , Wang Xianjie , Zhang Xinghong , Song Bo
Published: August 2020

Metastable metallic phases of transition‐metal dichalcogenide (TMD) nanomaterials have displayed excellent performance and emerged as promising candidates for sustainable energy sources low‐cost storage and conversion because of their two‐dimensional (2D) layered structures and extraordinary physicochemical properties. In order to broaden the range of potential applications, defect engineering is applied to the metastable phases of TMDs for further improvement of their catalytic and electronic properties. According to some recent studies, effective introduction of defects without perturbing the interior conductivity contributes to the development of metastable TMDs. This review provides deep insights into recent progress in electrochemistry using defect engineering in the metastable phases of TMDs. After introducing the structures of metastable phases and methods for defect construction, significant developments in catalysis and energy storage applications are discussed to elucidate structure‐function relationships. Key challenges and future directions for defect engineering in the metastable phases of TMDs are also highlighted in the conclusions.
An Association Between Serotonin 1A Receptor, Gray Matter Volume, and Sociability in Healthy Subjects and in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Lefevre Arthur , Richard Nathalie , Mottolese Raphaelle , Leboyer Marion , Sirigu Angela
Published: August 2020

Central serotonin is an important molecular pathway, involved in the regulation of social behavior and gray matter volume (GMV). In men with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), the serotonergic system and the GMV have been found disrupted. Here, we investigated the relation between serotonin, GMV, and social personality in men with typical development (TD) and in men with ASD. We combined anatomical magnetic resonance imaging, Positron emission tomography scan with 2′‐methoxyphenyl‐(N‐2′‐pyridinyl)‐p‐18F‐fluoro‐benzamidoethylpiperazine radioligand and revised NEO personality inventory personality questionnaire to examine the association between serotonin 1A receptor (5‐HT1AR) binding potential, GMV and social personality in 24 adult male TD subjects and 18 male men with ASD. In both groups, we found a positive correlation between 5‐HT1AR binding potential and GMV in a region dependent manner. In the TD group, we observed a negative correlation between 5‐HT1AR and GMV in the left and right posterior putamen. 5HT1AR binding and GMV in the putamen further correlated with social personality scores in the TD group. None of these associations were found in men with ASD, although no differences were observed for 5‐HT1AR concentration among the two groups. Our findings point to a deregulation of 5‐HT1AR density in the striatum of men with ASD, a failure that might contribute to their social disturbances. Serotonin is suspected to be involved in the pathophysiology of autism. We provide evidence for a role of serotonin 1A receptor in social behavior through a specific regulation of GMV in the putamen region in neurotypical subjects but not in men with autism. This suggests a potential impairment of the serotonergic system in men with autism which may contribute to patients' social disturbances. Our findings suggest further investigation on the role of serotonin 1A receptor and its activity in the striatum to regulate social behavior. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1843‐1855. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research and Wiley Periodicals LLC

Lay Summary

Serotonin is suspected to be involved in the pathophysiology of autism. We provide evidence for a role of serotonin 1A receptor in social behavior through a specific regulation of gray matter volume in the putamen region in neurotypical subjects but not in men with autism. This suggests a potential impairment of the serotonergic system in men with autism which may contribute to patients' social disturbances. Our findings suggest further investigation on the role of serotonin 1A receptor and its activity in the striatum to regulate social behavior.
Understanding the Reaction Steps Involving Polysulfides in 1 M LiTFSI in TEGDME : DOL Using Cyclic Voltammetry Experiments and Modelling
Authors: Thangavel Vigneshwaran , Mastouri Afef , Guéry Claude , Morcrette Mathieu , Franco Alejandro A.
Published: August 2020

The reaction mechanisms of polysulfides in the electrolytes of lithium sulfur (Li−S) batteries are known to be complex. These reaction mechanisms may also change with the electrolyte used. Understanding the reaction steps of the polysulfides in a Li−S battery electrolyte is important to assess the underlying phenomena behind the Li−S cell performance limitations. Here, we investigate the reaction steps of polysulfides in electrolyte solutions containing S8, Li2S8 and Li2S6 in 1 M LiTFSI in TEGDME : DOL (v/v 1 : 1) (one of the most interesting electrolytes for use in Li−S batteries), using experimental cyclic voltammetry and a mathematical model. The mathematical model assists in understanding the reaction steps behind the characteristics changes of cyclic voltammograms (CVs) with the scan rate and polysulfides speciation. Our systematic study shows that the reaction steps conventionally used in Li−S battery models are not sufficient to simulate all the CV characteristics of the investigated electrolyte solutions.
Schizophrenia: Developmental Variability Interacts with Risk Factors to Cause the Disorder
Authors: Szoke Andrei , Pignon Baptiste , Boster Sarah , Jamain Stéphane , Schürhoff Franck
Published: August 2020

A new etiological model is proposed for schizophrenia that combines variability‐enhancing nonspecific factors acting during development with more specific risk factors. This model is better suited than the current etiological models of schizophrenia, based on the risk factors paradigm, for predicting and/or explaining several important findings about schizophrenia: high co‐morbidity rates, low specificity of many risk factors, and persistence in the population of the associated genetic polymorphisms. Compared with similar models, e.g., de‐canalization, common psychopathology factor, sexual‐selection, or differential sensitivity to the environment, this proposal is more general and integrative. Recently developed research methods have proven the existence of genetic and environmental factors that enhance developmental variability. Applying such methods to newly collected or already available data can allow for testing the hypotheses upon which this model is built. If validated, this model may change the understanding of the etiology of schizophrenia, the research models, and preventionbrk paradigms.
Generalized estimating equations approach for spatial lattice data: A case study in adoption of improved maize varieties in Mozambique
Authors: Manuel Lourenço , Scalon João D.
Published: August 2020

Generalized estimating equations (GEE) are extension of generalized linear models (GLM) widely applied in longitudinal data analysis. GEE are also applied in spatial data analysis using geostatistics methods. In this paper, we advocate application of GEE for spatial lattice data by modeling the spatial working correlation matrix using the Moran's index and the spatial weight matrix. We present theoretical developments and results for simulated and actual data as well. For the former case, 1,000 samples of a random variable (response variable) defined in (0, 1) interval were generated using different values of the Moran's index. In addition, 1,000 samples of a binary and a continuous variable were also randomly generated as covariates. In each sample, three structures of spatial working correlation matrices were used while modeling: The independent, autoregressive, and the Toeplitz structure. Two measures were used to evaluate the performance of each of the spatial working correlation structures: the asymptotic relative efficiency and the working correlation selection criterions. The results showed that both measures indicated that the autoregressive spatial working correlation matrix proposed in this paper presents the best performance in general. For the actual data case, the proportion of small farmers who used improved maize varieties was considered as the response variable and a set of nine variables were used as covariates. Two structures of spatial working correlation matrices were used and the results showed consistence with those obtained in the simulation study.
An authentic inquiry‐based laboratory module for introducing concepts about volatile‐mediated communication resulted in stronger students' self‐efficacy
Authors: Chiang Chih‐Yun , Huang Hsin‐Wei , Chen Shao‐Yen , Chen Yun‐An , Chang Yuan‐Mou , Huang Hao‐Jen
Published: August 2020

Volatile‐mediated impacts of microbes on plants have aroused interest among scientists in the life science field. This study describes an inquiry‐based laboratory module named “Microbial Talk”, which related to microbial volatile‐mediated communication, including the process of design, implementation, and assessment. First‐year biology students in this course were allowed to complete authentic microbiology research using both typical experimental techniques and knowledge related to interspecies communication. The instructor provides continued guidance and support to ensure that students are aware of their knowledge and of the choices they encountered. Pretests and posttests were implemented to evaluate the efficacy of the “Microbial Talk” and the students' experimental design ability. Assessment of the module showed that students gained self‐efficacy in executing experiments and interpreting data. In conclusion, this module is cost‐effective and it can be used to help guide students in their future when they encounter situations that need these scientific skills.
Pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution study of 15 ingredients of Polygonum chinense Linn extract in rats by UHPLC–MS/MS
Authors: Chen Xiaoqing , Wei Liuting , Pu Xiaoping , Wang Yilin , Xu Yuanjin
Published: August 2020

A rapid and sensitive ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of 15 bioactive ingredients in rat plasma and tissues after oral administration of Polygonum chinense Linn extract (PCE). After addition of internal standards (ISs; rutin and danshensu), plasma and tissue samples were pre‐treated by protein precipitation with acetonitrile–ethanol. The chromatographic separation was performed on an Agilent ZORBAX RRHD Eclipse Plus C18 column with gradient elution using a mobile phase composed of methanol and water (containing 0.2% acetic acid) at a flow rate of 0.3 mL min−1. Mass spectrometric detection was carried out using a mass spectrometer in both positive and negative ion electrospray ionization modes by multiple reaction monitoring. The method provided excellent linearity, and the lower limit of quantification range 0.5–30 ng mL−1 for all analytes. The intra‐ and inter‐day precision were less than 9.12% and the accuracy ranged from −4.02% to 6.32%, respectively. The mean extraction recovery and matrix effect of analytes and ISs ranged from 83.65% to 109.20%. The method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution study of 15 ingredients of PCE in rats.
Effects of mood episodes and comorbid anxiety on neuropsychological impairment in patients with bipolar spectrum disorder
Authors: Huang Chih‐Chun , Chang Yun‐Hsuan , Wang Tzu‐Yun , Lee Sheng‐Yu , Chen Shiou‐Lan , Chen Po See , Lane Hsien‐Yuan , Yang Yen Kuang , Lu Ru‐Band
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Cases of patients with bipolar disorder (BD) having neuropsychological impairment have been reported, although inconsistently. The possibility of comorbidity with anxiety disorder (AD) has been suggested. The association between mood episodes and AD comorbidity on neuropsychological performance is unclear and thus was investigated in the current study.

Methods

All participants were informed about and agreed to participate in this study. Patients with BD were recruited from outpatient and inpatient settings, and healthy controls (HCs) were recruited as a comparison group. Six hundred and twenty‐eight participants (175 HCs and 453 BD—56 BDI and 397 BDII) were studied based on their current mood episode, namely, depressive (BDd), manic/hypomanic (BDm), mixed (BDmix), and euthymic (BDeu), compared with/without AD comorbidity (164 with AD).

Results

Compared to HCs, all BD groups had significantly more impaired neuropsychological profiles, but the BDeu group was found to have less impairment in memory and executive function than the episodic BD groups. The percentage of AD comorbidity in BDd, BDm, BDmix, and BDeu was 33.9%, 40.3%, 33.0%, and 35.6%, respectively (χ2 = 1.61, p > .05). The results show that AD plays a different role in neuropsychological impairment across various mood episodes in BD.

Conclusion

Memory impairment and executive dysfunction may be state‐like cognitive phenotypes and are affected by AD comorbidity during mixed and depressive episodes in BD, while sustained attention deficiencies are more like trait markers, regardless of mood episodes, and persist beyond the course of the illness. The AD comorbidity effect on attentional deficit is greater when suffering from a manic episode.
Non‐invasive procedural planning using computed tomography‐derived fractional flow reserve
Authors: Bom Michiel J. , Schumacher Stefan P. , Driessen Roel S. , van Diemen Pepijn A. , Everaars Henk , de Winter Ruben W. , van de Ven Peter M. , van Rossum Albert C. , Sprengers Ralf W. , Verouden Niels J.W. , Nap Alexander , Opolski Maksymilian P. , Leipsic Jonathon A. , Danad Ibrahim , Taylor Charles A. , Knaapen Paul
Published: August 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the performance of computed tomography derived fractional flow reserve based interactive planner (FFRCT planner) to predict the physiological benefits of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) as defined by invasive post‐PCI FFR.

Background

Advances in FFRCT technology have enabled the simulation of hyperemic pressure changes after virtual removal of stenoses.

Methods

In 56 patients (63 vessels) invasive FFR measurements before and after PCI were obtained and FFRCT was calculated using pre‐PCI coronary CT angiography. Subsequently, FFRCT and invasive coronary angiography models were aligned allowing virtual removal of coronary stenoses on pre‐PCI FFRCT models in the same locations as PCI was performed. Relationships between invasive FFR and FFRCT, between post‐PCI FFR and FFRCT planner, and between delta FFR and delta FFRCT were evaluated.

Results

Pre PCI, invasive FFR was 0.65 ± 0.12 and FFRCT was 0.64 ± 0.13 (p = .34) with a mean difference of 0.015 (95% CI: −0.23–0.26). Post‐PCI invasive FFR was 0.89 ± 0.07 and FFRCT planner was 0.85 ± 0.07 (p < .001) with a mean difference of 0.040 (95% CI: −0.10–0.18). Delta invasive FFR and delta FFRCT were 0.23 ± 0.12 and 0.21 ± 0.12 (p = .09) with a mean difference of 0.025 (95% CI: −0.20–0.25). Significant correlations were found between pre‐PCI FFR and FFRCT (r = 0.53, p < .001), between post‐PCI FFR and FFRCT planner (r = 0.41, p = .001), and between delta FFR and delta FFRCT (r = 0.57, p < .001).

Conclusions

The non‐invasive FFRCT planner tool demonstrated significant albeit modest agreement with post‐PCI FFR and change in FFR values after PCI. The FFRCT planner tool may hold promise for PCI procedural planning; however, improvement in technology is warranted before clinical application.
An algorithmic approach to balloon‐uncrossable coronary lesions
Authors: Elrayes Mahmoud M. , Xenogiannis Iosif , Nikolakopoulos Ilias , Vemmou Evangelia , Wollmuth Jason , Abi Rafeh Nidal , Karmpaliotis Dimitri , Gasparini Gabriele L. , Burke Martin Nicholas , Brilakis Emmanouil S.
Published: August 2020

Balloon uncrossable coronary lesions are lesions that cannot be crossed with a balloon after successful guidewire crossing. The strategies used to facilitate the treatment of such lesions can be classified into strategies that provide lesion modification and strategies that increase support. We describe a systematic, algorithmic approach to treat balloon uncrossable lesions, starting with use of small balloons, followed by increase in guide catheter support, use of microcatheters, wire cutting or puncture techniques, laser, atherectomy, and subintimal modification techniques. Sequential and simultaneous application of the aforementioned techniques can result in successful treatment of these challenging lesions.
Prevalence, predictors, and outcomes of patient prosthesis mismatch in women undergoing TAVI for severe aortic stenosis: Insights from the WIN‐TAVI registry
Authors: Panoulas Vasileios F. , Chandrasekhar Jaya , Busi Gherardo , Ruparelia Neil , Zhang Zhongjie , Mehilli Julinda , Sartori Samantha , Lefèvre Thierre , Presbitero Patrizia , Capranzano Piera , Tchetche Didier , Iadanza Alessandro , Sardella Gennaro , Van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Meliga Emanuele , Dumonteil Nicolas , Fraccaro Chiara , Trabattoni Daniela , Sharma Samin , Ferrer‐Gracia Maria‐Cruz , Naber Christoph K. , Kievit Peter C. , Snyder Clayton , Sutaria Nilesh , Sen Sayan , Malik Iqbal S. , Morice Marie‐Claude , Nihoyannopoulos Petros , Petronio Anna Sonia , Mehran Roxana , Chieffo Alaide , Mikhail Ghada W. ,   WIN‐TAVI Investigators
Published: August 2020

Objective

To evaluate the incidence, predictors and outcomes of female patients with patient‐prosthesis mismatch (PPM) following transcatheter aortic valve intervention (TAVI) for severe aortic stenosis (AS).

Background

Female AS TAVI recipients have a significantly lower mortality than surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) recipients, which could be attributed to the potentially lower PPM rates. TAVI has been associated with lower rates of PPM compared to SAVR. PPM in females post TAVI has not been investigated to date.

Methods

The WIN‐TAVI (Women's INternational Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation) registry is a multicenter registry of women undergoing TAVR for severe symptomatic AS. Two hundred and fifty patients with detailed periprocedural and follow‐up echocardiographic investigations were included in the WIN‐TAVI echocardiographic sub‐study. PPM was defined as per European guidelines stratified by the presence of obesity.

Results

The incidence of PPM in our population was 32.8%. Patients with PPM had significantly higher BMI (27.4 ± 6.1 vs. 25.2 ± 5.0, p = .002), smaller sized valves implanted (percentage of TAVI ≤23 mm 61% vs. 29.2%, PPM vs. no PPM, p < .001) and were more often treated with balloon expandable valves (48.3 vs. 32.5%, p < .001) rather than self expanding ones (26.3 vs. 52.8%, <.001). BMI (OR = 1.08; 95%CI 1.02–1.14, p = .011) and valve size ≤23 mm (OR = 3.00 95%CI 1.14–7.94, p = .027) were the only independent predictors of PPM. There was no significant interaction between valve size and valve type (p = .203). No significant differences were observed in 1‐year mortality or major adverse cardiovascular events.

Conclusions

PPM in females undergoing TAVI occurs in one third of patients. BMI and valve size ≤23 mm are independent predictors. Larger registries are required to determine the impact of PPM on future clinical outcomes.
Adverse clinical outcomes in patients undergoing both PCI and TAVR: Analysis from a pooled multi‐center registry
Authors: Kumar Arnav , Sammour Yasser , Reginauld Shawn , Sato Kimi , Agrawal Nikhil , Lee Joo Myung , Meenakshisundaram Chandramohan , Ramanan Thammi , Kamioka Norihiko , Sawant Abhishek C. , Mohananey Divyanshu , Gleason Patrick T , Devireddy Chandan , Krishnaswamy Amar , Mavromatis Kreton , Grubb Kendra , Svensson Lars G. , Tuzcu E. Murat , Block Peter C , Iyer Vijay , Babaliaros Vasilis , Kapadia Samir , Samady Habib
Published: August 2020

Background

There is a paucity of data regarding the optimum timing of PCI in relation to TAVR.

Objective

We compared the major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) rates among patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) before transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with those who received PCI with/after TAVR.

Methods

In this multicenter study, we pooled all consecutive patients who underwent TAVR at three high volume centers.

Results

Among 3,982 patients who underwent TAVR, 327 (8%) patients underwent PCI within 1 year before TAVR, 38 (1%) had PCI the same day as TAVR and 15 (0.5%) had PCI within 2 months after TAVR. Overall, among patients who received both PCI and TAVR (n = 380), history of previous CABG (HR:0.501; p = .001), higher BMI at TAVR (HR:0.970; p = .038), and statin therapy after TAVR (HR:0.660, p = .037) were independently associated with lower MACCE while warfarin therapy after TAVR was associated with a higher risk of MACCE (HR:1.779, p = .017). Patients who received PCI within 1 year before TAVR had similar baseline demographics, STS scores, clinical risk factors when compared to patients receiving PCI with/after TAVR. Both groups were similar in PCI (Syntax Score, ACC/AHA lesion class) and TAVR (valve types, access) related variables. There were no significant differences in terms of MACCE (log rank p = .550), all‐cause mortality (log rank p = .433), strokes (log rank p = .153), and repeat PCI (log rank p = .054) in patients who underwent PCI with/after TAVR when compared to patients who received PCI before TAVR.

Conclusion

Among patients who underwent both PCI and TAVR, history of CABG, higher BMI, and statin therapy had lower, while those discharged on warfarin, had higher adverse event rates. Adverse events rates were similar regardless of timing of PCI.
Intentional removal of erroneously deployed coronary stents: A case series and review of the literature
Authors: Ragosta Michael , Boehm Ryan , Shields Mary , Taylor Angela M.
Published: August 2020

Most reports of stent retrieval involve undeployed, embolized stents. While the retrieval of fully deployed stents has been sporadically reported, most of these were not intentional. The feasibility and safety of intentional retrieval of fully deployed, but erroneously placed stents have not been well described. We report four cases of successful, intentional stent retrieval for stents placed erroneously in an aorto‐ostial position. The stents were retrieved at varying times after deployment, ranging from immediately to up to 5 years. In all cases, stents were retrieved successfully with no complication. We conclude that the intentional retrieval of fully deployed, but erroneously placed stents is feasible and safe when stenting involved an aorto‐ostial location.