bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applications of Hybrid Metal‐Dielectric Nanostructures: State of the Art
Authors: Barreda Ángela , Vitale Francesco , Minovich Alexander E. , Ronning Carsten , Staude Isabelle
Published: January 2022

Enhancing the light‐matter interactions is important for many different applications like sensing, surface enhanced spectroscopies, solar energy harvesting, and for quantum effects such as nonlinear frequency generation or spontaneous and stimulated emission. Hybrid metal‐dielectric nanostructures have shown extraordinary performance in this respect, demonstrating their superiority with respect to bare metallic or high refractive index dielectric nanostructures. Such hybrid nanostructures can combine the best of two worlds: strong confinement of the electromagnetic energy by metallic structures and high scattering directivity and low losses of the dielectric ones. In this review, following a general overview of the properties of metal‐dielectric nanostructures, some of their most relevant applications including directional scattering, sensing, surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy, absorption enhancement, fluorescence and quantum dot emission enhancement, nonlinear effects, as well as lasing, are summarized.
Colloidal InSb Quantum Dots/Organic Integrated Bulk Heterojunction for Fast and Sensitive Near‐Infrared Photodetectors
Authors: He Miao , Xu Zhuhua , Zhang Si-Wei , Zhang Meng , Wu Chengcheng , Li Baohua , Li Jingzhou , Wang Lai , Zhao Shichao , Kang Feiyu , Wei Guodan
Published: January 2022

It remains urgent to integrate conductive InSb colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) for sensitive and fast near‐infrared (NIR) photodetection applications. Herein, nanocrystallized InSb CQDs (<12 nm in diameter) have been successfully obtained via hot‐injection procedure, and demonstrated a very narrow absorption peak centered at 1406 nm with a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 10.3 nm and a broader absorption peak at 1702 nm, indicating strong quantum‐confined effect. After integrating these InSb CQDs with [6,6]‐phenyl C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) and polymeric triphenyldiamine (poly(N,N′‐diphenylben‐zidine diphenylether), poly‐TPD) bulk junction, the obtained Si/SiO2/InSb CQDs:PCBM:poly‐TPD/Ag photodetector has reached long‐wavelength response up to 1400 nm, fast response time (<80 ms), and superior on/off ratio. In specific, charge carriers can be effectively transported due to favorable energy alignment and interpenetrating network formed in the inorganic/organic blend films. The work provides a new strategy to synthesize high‐quality InSb CQD and reveal its starting point toward low‐cost, practical, and sensitive next‐generation NIR detection.
Targeting PI3Kγ/AKT Pathway Remodels LC3‐Associated Phagocytosis Induced Immunosuppression After Radiofrequency Ablation
Authors: Liu Xiaodi , Zhang Wenyue , Xu Yanni , Xu Xiaolin , Jiang Qiongchao , Ruan Jingliang , Wu Ye , Zhou Yingshi , Saw Phei Er , Luo Baoming
Published: January 2022

Residual tumors after insufficient radiofrequency ablation (IRFA) shows accelerated progression and anti‐PD‐1 resistance. It is also reported that macrophages infiltrating into residual tumors leads to anti‐PD‐1 resistance. Elements of autophagy have been detected to conjugate LC3 to be increasingly expressed in residual tumors. The underlying mechanisms between LC3 and macrophages are aimed to be investigated, and explore further ways to enhance immunotherapy in treating residual tumors. In mice models and patients, macrophages demonstrate increased infiltration into residual tumors, especially surrounding the ablated zone. Single‐cell transcriptome demonstrates enhancement of immunosuppression function in macrophages after IRFA. It is shown that macrophages engulf heat‐treated cells through LC3‐associated phagocytosis (LAP), enhance IL‐4 mediated macrophage programming through the PI3Kγ/AKT pathway, and suppress T cell proliferation. Blockade of the PI3Kγ/AKT pathway enhances the antitumor activity of PD‐1 blockades, inhibits malignant growth, and enhances survival in post‐IRFA models. In conclusion, in mice models and patients, macrophages demonstrate increased infiltration around ablated zones in residual tumors. Blockade of the PI3Kγ/AKT pathway suppresses the growth of residual tumors in subcutaneous and orthotopic models. The results illustrate the translational potential of PI3Kγ inhibitors to enhance anti‐PD‐1 therapy for the treatment of residual tumors after IRFA.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Type 2‐Causing Coronavirus: Variants and Preventive Strategies
Authors: Aydogdu Mehmet Onur , Rohn Jennifer L. , Jafari Nazila V. , Brako Francis , Homer‐Vanniasinkam Shervanthi , Edirisinghe Mohan
Published: January 2022

COVID‐19 vaccines have constituted a substantial scientific leap in countering severe acute respiratory syndrome type 2‐causing coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2), and worldwide implementation of vaccination programs has significantly contributed to the global pandemic effort by saving many lives. However, the continuous evolution of the SARS‐CoV‐2 viral genome has resulted in different variants with a diverse range of mutations, some with enhanced virulence compared with previous lineages. Such variants are still a great concern as they have the potential to reduce vaccine efficacy and increase the viral transmission rate. This review summarizes the significant variants of SARS‐CoV‐2 encountered to date (December 2021) and discusses a spectrum of possible preventive strategies, with an emphasis on physical and materials science.
Fast‐Response Oxygen Optical Fiber Sensor based on PEA2SnI4 Perovskite with Extremely Low Limit of Detection
Authors: Cai Shunshuo , Ju Yangyang , Wang Yangming , Li Xiaowei , Guo Tuan , Zhong Haizheng , Huang Lingling
Published: January 2022

Oxygen sensor is an important technique in various applications including industrial process control, medical equipment, biological fabrication, etc. The reported optical fiber‐based configurations so far, using gas‐sensitive coating do not meet the stringent performance targets, such as fast response time and low limit of detection (LOD). Tin‐based halide perovskites are sensitive to oxygen with potential use for sensor applications. Here, the halide perovskite‐based oxygen optical fiber sensor by combining phenylethylammonium tin iodide (PEA2SnI4) and tilted fiber Bragg grating (TFBG) is demonstrated. The PEA2SnI4‐based oxygen optical fiber sensor is reversible at room temperature with a response time of about 10 s, and the experimental LOD approaches to an extremely low oxygen concentration of about 50 ppm. The as‐fabricated oxygen sensor shows a relative response change of 0.6 dB for an oxygen concentration increase from 50 ppm to 5% with good gas selection against NO2, CO, CO2, H2. This work extends the sensor applications of halide perovskites, providing a novel technique for rapid and repeatable oxygen gas detection at a low level.
Insight on Organic Molecules in Aqueous Zn‐Ion Batteries with an Emphasis on the Zn Anode Regulation
Authors: Wang Donghong , Li Qing , Zhao Yuwei , Hong Hu , Li Hongfei , Huang Zhaodong , Liang Guojin , Yang Qi , Zhi Chunyi
Published: January 2022

Rechargeable aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs), as a rising star in aqueous ion batteries, are restricted by the narrow voltage window and the unsatisfactory reversibility, which are dominated by the high activity of H2O molecules, side reaction, Zn dendrites, and structural degeneration of the cathode. Electrolyte manipulation has seen a great deal of research recently, particularly various kinds of organic molecules have been shown to achieve outstanding effects on stabilizing the Zn anode, yet the exploration of the mechanism behind the high performance has not been thorough. In an attempt to find such underlying principles, the basic reactions and the corresponding progress on the anode side of AZIBs are first assessed. Then, the roles of organic molecules in recent studies are researched, followed by a deep insight into the role of organic molecules. Finally, several designed strategies are proposed for the further exploration of high performance aqueous rechargeable ZIBs through incorporating appropriate organic molecules in the electrolytes.
Optimizing Hydrogen Adsorption by d–d Orbital Modulation for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Catalysis
Authors: Liu Jiangchao , Tang Chongyang , Ke Zunjian , Chen Rui , Wang Hongbo , Li Wenqing , Jiang Changzhong , He Dong , Wang Gongming , Xiao Xiangheng
Published: January 2022

Unraveling the essence of hydrogen adsorption and desorption behaviors can fundamentally guide catalyst design and promote catalytic performance. Herein, the regulation of hydrogen adsorption is systematically investigated by d–d orbital interaction of metallic tungsten dioxide (WO2). Theoretical simulations show that the incorporation of post‐transition metal atoms including Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu can gradually reduce the bond order of W—M sites, consequently weakening the hydrogen adsorption and accelerating the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) process. Under that theoretical guidance, various 3d metal doped WO2 electrocatalysts are systematically screened for HER catalysis. Among them, the Ni‐WO2/nickel foam exhibits an overpotential of 41 mV (−10 mA cm−2) and Tafel slope down to 47 mV dec−1 representing the best tungsten‐based HER catalysts so far. This work demonstrates that optimizing hydrogen adsorption via d–d orbital modulation is an effective approach to developing efficient and robust catalysts.
Electrical conductivity measurements and the nonhomogeneous settling behavior of aqueous suspensions of barite
Authors: Raposa Rocha Robson , Francisco Oechsler Bruno , Scheid Cláudia Míriam , Calçada Luís Américo , Meleiro Luiz Augusto
Published: January 2022

Using electrical conductivity measurements to monitor the local concentration of solids indirectly in settling tests is a practice already explored in the literature. However, since suspended particles may comprise a mixture of solids, a new suspension preparation methodology and calibration procedure were proposed to eliminate the influence of soluble materials on conductivity measurements. This article investigates water‐barite suspensions of 10%, 15%, and 20% v/v in solids. Their settling dynamics resulted in particle Reynolds numbers and Peclet numbers always smaller than 0.0012 and larger than 2100, respectively. Particle agglomeration, multiple boundaries (layers of different maximum local concentrations), channeling (formation of flow paths or channels), and particulate stratification were some phenomena inferred from the results. Hence, this article illustrates that settling behaviors typically seen in solid–liquid mixtures of non‐Newtonian continuous phase can also occur in aqueous suspensions, indicating there are still considerable challenges to understanding the process of gravitational settling.
Generative model‐enhanced human motion prediction
Authors: Bourached Anthony , Griffiths Ryan‐Rhys , Gray Robert , Jha Ashwani , Nachev Parashkev
Published: January 2022

The task of predicting human motion is complicated by the natural heterogeneity and compositionality of actions, necessitating robustness to distributional shifts as far as out‐of‐distribution (OoD). Here, we formulate a new OoD benchmark based on the Human3.6M and Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) motion capture datasets, and introduce a hybrid framework for hardening discriminative architectures to OoD failure by augmenting them with a generative model. When applied to current state‐of‐the‐art discriminative models, we show that the proposed approach improves OoD robustness without sacrificing in‐distribution performance, and can theoretically facilitate model interpretability. We suggest human motion predictors ought to be constructed with OoD challenges in mind, and provide an extensible general framework for hardening diverse discriminative architectures to extreme distributional shift. The code is available at: https://github.com/bouracha/OoDMotion.
Werner syndrome in a Lebanese family
Authors: Jaafar Batoul , Nasrallah Mona , Sievers Bianca , Oshima Junko , Lessel Davor
Published: January 2022

Werner syndrome (WS) is an extremely rare, autosomal recessive segmental progeroid disorder caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in the WRN, which encodes a multifunctional nuclear protein that belongs to the RecQ family of DNA helicases. Despite extensive research on WS in the last years, the population‐specific mutational spectrum still needs to be elucidated. Moreover, there is an evident lack of detailed clinical descriptions accompanied with photographs of affected individuals. Here, we report a consanguineous Lebanese family in whom we identified a pathogenic homozygous nonsense variant c.1111G>T, p.Glu371* in the WRN. The index individual, at the age of 54 years, was suspected to have WS due to a history of early‐onset cataracts, premature hair loss and graying, chronic nonhealing leg ulcers, Achilles' tendon calcifications, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, hypothyroidism, and premature coronary artery disease. His four sisters, three of which deceased in the fifth decade, had clinical signs suggestive of WS. Moreover, his daughter, aged 23 years, had short stature, hair loss and flat feet. Taken together, we report a detailed clinical course of disease in several affected members of a consanguineous family, which is additionally documented by photographs.
Progress in Spinconversion and its Connection with Band Crossing
Authors: Puebla Jorge , Hwang Yunyoung , Kondou Kouta , Otani Yoshichika
Published: January 2022

Spinconversion is a collective concept underlying spin mediated energy interconversion among electricity, light, sound, vibration, and heat. Particularly in the last couple of decades, the increasing research efforts result in enhancements of spinconversion efficiencies and the discovery of novel spinconversion mechanisms. Here, an overview of the progress in spinconversion is layed out. In particular, the involvement of band crossings at which quasiparticles are formed with consequences beyond that of efficient spinconverison are discussed.
Rational Design of Zinc/Zeolite Catalyst: Selective Formation of p‐Xylene from Methanol to Aromatics Reaction
Authors: Wang Ning , Li Jing , Sun Wenjing , Hou Yilin , Zhang Lan , Hu Xiaomin , Yang Yifeng , Chen Xiao , Chen Congmei , Chen Biaohua , Qian Weizhong
Published: January 2022

The production of p‐xylene from the methanol to aromatics (MTA) reaction is challenging. The catalytic stability, which is inversely proportional to the particle size of the zeolite, is not always compatible with p‐xylene selectivity, which is inversely proportional to the external acid sites. In this study, based on a nano‐sized zeolite, we designed hollow triple‐shelled Zn/MFI single crystals using the ultra‐dilute liquid‐phase growth technique. The obtained composites possessed one ZSM‐5 layer (≈30 nm) in the middle and two silicalite‐1 layers (≈20 nm) epitaxially grown on two sides of ZSM‐5, which exhibited a considerably long lifetime (100 % methanol conversion >40 h) as well as an enhanced shape selectivity of p‐xylene (>35 %) with a p‐xylene/xylene ratio of ≈90 %. Importantly, using this sandwich‐like zeolite structure, we directly imaged the Zn species in the micropores of only the ZSM‐5 layer and further determined the specific structure and anchor location of the Zn species.
Chemiluminescent 1,2‐Dioxetane Iridium Complexes for Near‐Infrared Oxygen Sensing
Authors: Kagalwala Husain N. , Gerberich Jeni , Smith Chancellor J. , Mason Ralph P. , Lippert Alexander R.
Published: January 2022

Chemiluminescent iridium‐based sensors which demonstrate oxygen dependent responses have been developed. The molecular probes, named IrCL‐1, IrCL‐2 and IrCL‐3 consist of oxygen‐sensitive iridium complexes attached to a spiroadamantane 1,2 dioxetane and operate via energy transfer from the chemiexcited benzoate to the corresponding iridium(III) complex. Complexing the iridium(III) center with π‐extended ligands results in emission in the biologically relevant, near‐infrared (NIR) region. All probes demonstrate varying oxygen tolerance, with IrCL‐1 being the most oxygen sensitive. These probes have been further utilized for in vitro ratiometric imaging of oxygen, as well as for intraperitoneal, intramuscular and intratumoral imaging in live mice. To our knowledge, these are the first iridium‐based chemiluminescent probes that have been employed for in vitro ratiometric oxygen sensing, and for in vivo tumor imaging.
Spatially Confined Intervention of Cellular Senescence by a Lysosomal Metabolism Targeting Molecular Prodrug for Broad‐Spectrum Senotherapy
Authors: Xia Yinghao , Li Jili , Wang Linlin , Luo Xiyuan , Xie Yuqi , Liu Yanlan
Published: January 2022

Specific intervention of senescent cells (SnCs) is emerging as a powerful means to counteract aging and age‐related diseases. Canonical methods are generally designed to target SnC‐associated signaling pathways, which are however dynamically changing and highly heterogeneous in SnCs, significantly limiting the effectiveness. Here, we present a tailor‐made molecular prodrug targeting lysosome dysfunction, a unique feature shared by virtually all types of SnCs. The prodrug comprises three modules all targeting the altered lysosomal programs in SnCs, namely, a recognizing unit towards the elevated lysosome content, a linker cleavable by the activated lysosomal enzyme, and a lysosomotropic agent targeting the increased lysosomal membrane sensitivity. This spatially confined design enables killing broad‐spectrum SnCs, with high specificity over non‐SnCs. Along with in vivo benefits, this work offers a way to significantly expand the applicability of senotherapy in a wide range of diseases.
Mapping the Morphological Landscape of Oligomeric Di‐block Peptide–Polymer Amphiphiles**
Authors: Allen Benjamin P. , Wright Zoe M. , Taylor Hailey F. , Oweida Thomas J. , Kader‐Pinky Sabila , Patteson Emily F. , Bucci Kara M. , Cox Caleb A. , Senthilvel Abishec Sundar , Yingling Yaroslava G. , Knight Abigail S.
Published: January 2022

Peptide–polymer amphiphiles (PPAs) are tunable hybrid materials that achieve complex assembly landscapes by combining the sequence‐dependent properties of peptides with the structural diversity of polymers. Despite their promise as biomimetic materials, determining how polymer and peptide properties simultaneously affect PPA self‐assembly remains challenging. We herein present a systematic study of PPA structure–assembly relationships. PPAs containing oligo(ethyl acrylate) and random‐coil peptides were used to determine the role of oligomer molecular weight, dispersity, peptide length, and charge density on self‐assembly. We observed that PPAs predominantly formed spheres rather than anisotropic particles. Oligomer molecular weight and peptide hydrophilicity dictated morphology, while dispersity and peptide charge affected particle size. These key benchmarks will facilitate the rational design of PPAs that expand the scope of biomimetic functionality within assembled soft materials.
Intermolecular Energy Gap‐Induced Formation of High‐Valent Cobalt Species in CoOOH Surface Layer on Cobalt Sulfides for Efficient Water Oxidation
Authors: Yao Na , Wang Gongwei , Jia Hongnan , Yin Jinlong , Cong Hengjiang , Chen Shengli , Luo Wei
Published: January 2022

Transition metal‐based electrocatalysts will undergo surface reconstruction to form active oxyhydroxide‐based hybrids, which are regarded as the “true‐catalysts” for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Much effort has been devoted to understanding the surface reconstruction, but little on identifying the origin of the enhanced performance derived from the substrate effect. Herein, we report the electrochemical synthesis of amorphous CoOOH layers on the surface of various cobalt sulfides (CoSα), and identify that the reduced intermolecular energy gap (Δinter) between the valence band maximum (VBM) of CoOOH and the conduction band minimum (CBM) of CoSαcan accelerate the formation of OER‐active high‐valent Co4+species. The combination of electrochemical and in situ spectroscopic approaches, including cyclic voltammetry (CV), operando electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and Raman, reveals that Co species in the CoOOH/Co9S8are more readily oxidized to CoO2/Co9S8than in CoOOH and other CoOOH/CoSα. This work provides a new design principle for transition metal‐based OER electrocatalysts.
Combining a Genetically Engineered Oxidase with Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Frameworks (HOFs) for Highly Efficient Biocomposites
Authors: Wied Peter , Carraro Francesco , Bolivar Juan M. , Doonan Christian J. , Falcaro Paolo , Nidetzky Bernd
Published: January 2022

Enzymes incorporated into hydrogen‐bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) via bottom‐up synthesis are promising biocomposites for applications in catalysis and sensing. Here, we explored synthetic incorporation of d‐amino acid oxidase (DAAO) with the metal‐free tetraamidine/tetracarboxylate‐based BioHOF‐1 in water. N‐terminal enzyme fusion with the positively charged module Zbasic2 strongly boosted the loading (2.5‐fold; ≈500 mg enzyme gmaterial−1) and the specific activity (6.5‐fold; 23 U mg−1). The DAAO@BioHOF‐1 composites showed superior activity with respect to every reported carrier for the same enzyme and excellent stability during catalyst recycling. Further, extension to other enzymes, including cytochrome P450 BM3 (used in the production of high‐value oxyfunctionalized compounds), points to the versatility of genetic engineering as a strategy for the preparation of biohybrid systems with unprecedented properties.
Synthesis, characterization, spectral studies two new transition metal complexes derived from pyrazolone by theoretical studies, and investigate anti‐proliferative activity
Authors: Parvarinezhad Sakineh , Salehi Mehdi , Eshaghi Malekshah Rahimeh , Kubicki Maciej , Khaleghian Ali
Published: January 2022

Metal (II) complexes of Cu (II) (1), and Ni (II) (2) with Schiff base derived from 4‐amino‐antipyrine were synthesized. These complexes were fully characterized by FTIR, and UV–Vis spectroscopies, crystallography, and cyclic voltammetry. Crystal structures of these two complexes were mononuclear. Furthermore, complex Cu (II) (1), of [CuII(H2L1)(NO3)] composition, is 4‐coordinated in a square‐planar environment. Complex Ni (II) (2) is six‐coordinated in an octahedral geometry and can be described as [NiII (H2L2)2]; this crystal structure additionally contains solvent—DMSO molecule. The experimental structural models are interpreted by Hirshfeld surface analysis, density functional theory calculations, Molecular Electrostatic Potential, and the atoms in molecules method. Density functional theory calculations support all experimental results, as well as predict the correct structure of complexes. In addition, the types of interactions in the structure of the complexes were identified by Hirshfeld surface analysis, and molecular electrostatic potential was used to confirm the formation of these interactions, and the results of these studies are consistent. Then the theory of atom in molecule was performed, which predicts the type of interaction of the ligand metal non‐covalently with ionic nature. To determine the mechanism of adsorption of complexes on chitosan, a Monte Carlo adsorption locator was utilized. The adsorption process of complex [CuII (H2L1)NO3]and [NiII(H2L2)2(C2H6SO)] in the aqueous phase on CS was calculated by Monte Carlo adsorption locator. The results showed complex [NiII(H2L2)2(C2H6SO)] had a high binding efficiency on CS compared with complex [CuII (H2L1)NO3]. Moreover, the anticancer effects of ligands and complexes toward MTT assay against SW480 cancer cell lines were investigated. The biological activity results illustrate that the ligands and complexes have anticancer activity. Molecular docking studies were also carried out for both complexes to find their binding affinity with protein B‐cell lymphorna (BCL‐2, PDB ID: 4LXD).
Sol–gel method synthesized Ce‐doped TiO2 visible light photocatalyst for degradation of organic pollutants
Authors: Bhosale Mangesh G. , Sutar Radhakrishna S. , Londhe Swati S. , Patil Meghshyam K.
Published: January 2022

The Ce‐doped TiO2 nanoparticles were prepared by the sol–gel method. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by sophisticated analytical techniques such as XRD, FESEM with EDX, HR‐TEM, XPS, FTIR, TGA, and UV–visible spectroscopy, which gives structural features, morphology, elemental composition, and thermal stability of prepared nanoparticles. Based on the analysis, we conclude that increasing the dopant content of cerium in TiO2 results in a decrease in particle size, increase in thermal stability, and decrease in band gap. Further, on increasing the dopant content of cerium, there is an increase in photocatalytic activity due to changes in structural features due to doping, and 5 mol% Ce‐doped TiO2 has shown nearly four times higher photocatalytic activity than pure TiO2 for degradation of tetracycline. In this study, the photocatalytic activity and kinetics of photocatalytic degradation of antibacterial agent tetracycline have been studied by using these prepared catalysts. Further, effects of different parameters such as change in pH and change in concentration of tetracycline and amount of catalyst loading have been studied for the degradation of tetracycline. Also, Ce‐doped TiO2 has shown good photocatalytic efficiency for degradation of a mixture of textile dyes (methylene blue, rhodamine B, and brilliant green) and for degradation of a mixture of emerging contaminants (tetracycline, diclofenac, and triclosan).
Investigating the use of 3D printed soft magnetic PEEK‐based composite for space compliant electrical motors
Authors: Ferrara Miriam , Rinaldi Marianna , Pigliaru Lucia , Cecchini Federico , Nanni Francesca
Published: January 2022

Electric motors are ubiquitous on spacecraft and their smooth operation relies on the presence of naturally magnetic materials. The employment of conventional metal‐based magnets causes some inconveniences such as high values of specific gravity and the limited reproducibility of complicated geometries. The introduction of novel polymer‐based magnetic materials processed via additive manufacturing represents a brilliant answer to these needs. This paper describes the first‐time development of a polyether ether ketone‐magnetite (Fe3O4) soft magnetic composite. The material was prepared by adding 50 wt% magnetic microparticles to the polymeric matrix. The composite material was extruded in form of filaments and 3D printed via fused filament fabrication. The thermomechanical characterization demonstrated the stability of the material at both processing ad use temperatures, while the magnetic analysis reported a typical soft magnetic behavior with 25.7 A m2 kg−1 magnetization at saturation. The measured properties were employed as inputs for the finite element analysis of an axial flux brushless direct current electric motor, as a proof of concept. The simulation of the electromechanical behavior of the motor showed promising performance for the composite material, reaching the maximum deliverable torque of about 0.8 Nm (compliant to small power aerospace applications such as micro‐actuators and mini control moment gyroscopes) with weight savings up to 50%.
Improving performance oftwo‐stagephotopolymers for volume holographic recording by fluorinatedepoxy‐amine cross‐linkedmatrices
Authors: Zhang Diqin , Zhao Yu , Zhang Zhen , Guo Bin , Zhu Jianhua , Ye Yan , Zhao Yuxia
Published: January 2022

Host matrices play an important role in the volume holographic gratings formation of photopolymers. In this study, a series of fluorinated epoxy resin (FTGE) with low refractive index (1.44–1.46) are synthesized and characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance spectra (1H NMR,19F NMR) and fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR). Fluorinated epoxy‐amine cross‐linked matrices are formed at room temperature and their thermal polymerization properties are investigated through real‐time FTIR and thermogravimetric analyses (TGA). Using the fluorinated epoxy‐amine as host matrices, holographic photopolymers are fabricated. The influence of different kinds (Prop‐FTGE, Buta‐FTGE, and Penta‐FTGE) and weight ratios (0%, 8%, 16%, and 23%) of FTGEs on holographic performances of the photopolymers are explored. The results show that the sample with 23% Prop‐FTGE has the most excellent holographic optical characteristics. 0.5 mm thick sample with 23% Prop‐FTGE reaches 91% diffraction efficiency within 80 mJ/cm2exposure dosage, and gets a 2000 lp/mm Bragg volume grating with 0.24° angular selectivity. Meanwhile, under a single pulse exposure mode (150–200 ps pulse width, 25 mJ/cm2exposure dosage), a grating with 4.4% diffraction efficiency is obtained, which proves the ultrafast response and recording capability of the sample.
Nitrogen‐rich silicon quantum dots: facile synthesis and application as a fluorescent ‘on–off–on’ probe for sensitive detection of Hg2+ and cyanide ions
Authors: Rahimi Fatemeh , Anbia Mansoor
Published: January 2022

The sensitive and reliable detection of Hg2+ and CN− as harsh environmental contaminants are of great importance. In view of this, a novel ‘on–off–on’ fluorescent probe based on nitrogen‐rich silicon quantum dots (NR‐SiQDs) has been designed for sensitive detection of Hg2+ and CN− ions in aqueous medium. NR‐SiQDs were synthesized using a facile, one‐step, and environment friendly procedure in the presence of 3‐aminopropyl trimethoxysilane (APTMS) and ascorbic acid (AA) as precursors, with l‐asparagine as a nitrogen source for surface modification. The NR‐SiQDs exhibited strong fluorescence emission at 450 nm with 42.34% quantum yield, satisfactory salt tolerance, and superior photostability and pH stability. The fluorescence emission was effectively quenched using Hg2+ (turn‐off) due to the formation of a nonfluorescent stable NR‐SiQDs/Hg2+ complex, whereas after the addition of cyanide ions (CN−), Hg2+ ions could be leached from the surface of the NR‐SiQDs and the fluorescence emission intensity of the quenched NR‐SiQDs fully recovered (turn‐on) due to the formation of highly stable [Hg(CN)4]2− species. After optimizing the response conditions, the obtained limits of detection were found to be 53 nM and 0.46 μM for Hg2+ and CN−, respectively. Finally, the NR‐SiQD‐based fluorescence probe was utilized to detect Hg2+ and CN− ions in water samples and satisfactory results were obtained, suggesting its potential application for environmental monitoring.
The initial expression alterations occurring to transcription factors during the formation of breast cancer: Evidence from bioinformatics
Authors: Dong Xingxing , Yang Yalong , Xu Gaoran , Tian Zelin , Yang Qian , Gong Yan , Wu Gaosong
Published: January 2022

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading malignancy among women worldwide.

Aim

This work aimed to present a comprehensively bioinformatic analysis of gene expression profiles and to identify the hub genes during BC tumorigenesis, providing potential biomarkers and targets for the diagnosis and therapy of BC.

Materials & Methods

In this study, multiple public databases, bioinformatics approaches, and online analytical tools were employed and the real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was implemented.

Results

First, we identified 10, 107, and 3869 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from three gene expression datasets (GSE9574, GSE15852, and GSE42568, covering normal, para‐cancerous, and BC samples, respectively), and investigated different biological functions and pathways involved. Then, we screened out 8, 16, and 29 module genes from these DEGs, respectively. Next, 10 candidate genes were determined through expression and survival analyses. We noted that seven candidate genes JUN, FOS, FOSB, EGR1, ZFP36, CFD, and PPARG were downregulated in BC compared to normal tissues and lower expressed in aggressive types of BC (basal, HER2+, and luminal B), TP53 mutation group, younger patients, higher stage BC, and lymph node metastasis BC, while CD27, PSMB9, and SELL were upregulated. The present study discovered that the expression levels of these candidate genes were correlated with the infiltration of immune cells (CD8+ T cell, macrophage, natural killer [NK] cell, and cancer‐associated fibroblast) in BC, as well as biomarkers of immune cells and immune checkpoints. We also revealed that promoter methylation, amplification, and deep deletion might contribute to the abnormal expressions of candidate genes. Moreover, we illustrated downstream‐targeted genes of JUN, FOS, FOSB, EGR1, and ZFP36 and demonstrated that these targeted genes were involved in “positive regulation of cell death”, “pathways in cancer”, “PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway”, and so on.

Discussion & Conclusion

We presented differential gene expression profiles among normal, para‐cancerous, and BC tissues and further identified candidate genes that might contribute to tumorigenesis and progression of BC, as potential diagnostic and prognostic targets for BC patients.
Build the campus police department of the future with net‐zero energy emissions
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: January 2022

The first net‐zero sustainable building in the entire University of Colorado system will be a renovated building housing campus safety and emergency management at the Colorado University, Anschutz Medical Campus.
Chemical Identity of Cuticular Lipid Components in the Mimetic Swallowtail Butterfly Papilio polytes
Authors: Ômura Hisashi , Noguchi Taro , Ohta Shinji
Published: January 2022

The swallowtail Papilio polytes shows Batesian and female‐limited polymorphic mimicry. In Japan, P. polytes females have two different forms: the cyrus form is non‐mimetic and resembles males, whereas the polytes form mimics Pachliopta aristolochiae and Byasa (Atrophaneura) alcinous as unpalatable models. During mating, P. polytes males use cuticular lipids to distinguish non‐mimetic females from conspecific males and sympatric sister species. In this study, we investigated whether compositional differences in cuticular lipids exist between mimetic and non‐mimetic females of P. polytes and between mimetic females and their model species. The mimetic and non‐mimetic females had nearly identical cuticular lipid profiles, which differed from those of males. The two model species exhibited sexually dimorphic and species‐specific cuticular lipid compositions, which were distinctly different from those of mimetic P. polytes females. These results strongly suggest that P. polytes females maintain the identity of cuticular lipid profiles regardless of the mimicry type, and this feature helps males recognize mimetic females as the correct mating partners.
Progressive vitiligo induced by recurrent melanoma
Authors: Nakai Yasuo , Ueki Ayaka , Yamanaka Keiichi
Published: January 2022

A woman had undergone excision for primary melanoma of the left heel and dissection of groin lymph nodes. The recurrent tumor on the lateral left lower leg developed six months ago and the depigmented plaques spread extensively on the left lower limb. The depigmented macules were localized to the left lower limb and were not seen in other areas. Although the left groin lymph node had been dissected, the local immune environment of anti‐tumor immunity was preserved. The cause of melanoma‐associated vitiligo is regarded to be anti‐tumor autoimmune mediated, and this phenomenon is recently recognized during the therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of stage III and IV melanoma
Pulmonary arteriovenous malformation revealing Osler‐Weber‐Rendu disease: A case report
Authors: Ramanandafy Herveat , Andriamahenina Finaritra Princy Parfait , Tiaray Michel Harison , Nandimbiniaina Anjara Mihaja , Razafindrasoa Angela Zamelina , Razafimpihanina Sonia , Andriarimanga Diamondra , Ratsimbazafy Jean Noêl Solohery , Rakotomizao Jocelyn Robert , Rakotoson Joëlson Lovaniaina , Vololontiana Hanta Marie Danielle
Published: January 2022

Osler‐Weber‐Rendu disease is a genetic disease characterized by mucocutaneous and visceral telangiectasias. Pulmonary arteriovenous malformation is one of the main visceral complications revealing Osler‐Weber‐Rendu disease. The present case was a 34‐year‐old woman with exertional dyspnea and severe hypoxemia revealing pulmonary arteriovenous malformations on chest CT scan.
Photo‐Degradable Protein‐Polymer Hybrid Shells for Caging Living Cells
Authors: Yamaguchi Satoshi , Chujo Kazuki , Ohashi Noriyuki , Minamihata Kosuke , Nagamune Teruyuki
Published: January 2022

There is growing demand for the precise remote control of cellular functions in various fields. Herein, a method for caging mammalian cells by coating with photodegradable protein‐polymer hybrid shells to photo‐control their functions without genetic engineering is reported. A layer‐by‐layer assembly of photocleavable synthetic materials through biotin‐streptavidin (SA) binding was employed for cell coating. The cell surfaces were first biotinylated with photocleavable biotinylated poly(ethylene glycol)(PEG)‐lipid and then coated by repeatedly layering SA and micelles of the PEG‐lipid and photocleavable biotinylated four‐arm PEG. The cell extension and adhesion were suppressed with the shells and then triggered with the degradation of the shells by light exposure. Macrophage phagocytosis was also stopped by caging with the shells and restarted by light‐guided uncaging. This study provides the first proof of principle that cellular functions can be remotely controlled by steric hinderance of cell surfaces with photodegradable materials.
Comparison of three methods for the sequential extraction of lignite pretreated by ionic liquid
Authors: Ding Ning , Li Mei , Yue Jinsong , Cheng Sidan , Gao Caiyun
Published: January 2022

In order to improve the extraction rate of coal by solvent extraction, Lianhuatang lignite (LHT) was pretreated with 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ionic liquid([Bmim]PF6) firstly. Then, the Soxhlet extraction (SE), ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE), and microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) were carried out to obtain extracts (ES1‐3, EU1‐3, and EM1‐3) and residues (RS1‐3, RU1‐3, and RM1‐3) from the Lianhuatang lignite pretreated with ionic liquid (BLHT), respectively, and CS2, acetone, and ethanol were used as solvents. The coal samples before and after the ionic liquid pretreatment were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analyzer (TG). The residues were characterized by FTIR, and the extracts were characterized by a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer (GC/MS). According to the results, ionic liquid can crack coal particles, increase the contact area of coal surface with solvent, and destroy part of the hydrogen bonds and intermolecular forces in coal, enabling easy extraction of the active small molecules. The macromolecular structure of coal is not destroyed in the three sequential extraction experiments. The types of extracts are similar under different methods, but the specific substances are very different. The total extraction rate by MAE was the highest, which was 48.70%. Microwave radiation can promote the extraction of oxygen‐containing substances, especially esters.
An equalization charger based on phase‐shift full‐bridge converter with an n‐stage current rectifier
Authors: Yang Xiaoguang , Wang Dexin , Jia Zhe , Su Yukui , Zhao Xiaobing , Nie Baoxin
Published: January 2022

A traditional charging system is composed of a charger and a separate voltage equalizer. By integrating the voltage equalization circuit into the charger as an equalization charger, the components can be reduced, and the system can be simplified. The equalization charger consists of two functional parts: The front stage generates a PWM voltage wave, and the rear stage generates multiple uniform output voltages. In this paper, a new n‐stage current rectifier (CR) is proposed as the rear stage, which has higher power conversion efficiency than traditional voltage multipliers. The full‐bridge (FB) converter is selected as the front stage and combined with the n‐stage CR to form a phase‐shift (PS) FB converter, which can realize zero voltage switching (ZVS) operation under light load conditions. The basic working principle of the equalization charger is described, and analytical models for converter design are derived. A prototype for three battery modules was built and tested under the condition of initial voltage unbalance. Experimental results show that the proposed equalization charger has good voltage equalization characteristics, and the standard deviation is as low as about 4 mV. Experimental results show that all switches can achieve ZVS under light load conditions.
Fate‐mapping analysis of cochlear cells expressing Atoh1mRNA via a new Atoh13*HA‐P2A‐Cre knockin mouse strain
Authors: Li Shuting , Fan Ting , Li Chao , Wang Yunfeng , Li Jian , Liu Zhiyong
Published: January 2022

Background

Atoh1 is recognized to be essential for cochlear hair cell (HC) development. However, Atoh1 temporal and spatial expression patterns remain widely debated. Here, we aimed to obtain evidence to resolve the controversies regarding Atoh1 expression by generating a new knockin mouse strain: Atoh13*HA‐P2A‐Cre.

Results

Fate‐mapping analysis of Atoh13*HA‐P2A‐Cre/+; Rosa26‐CAG‐LSL‐tdTomato (Ai9)/+ mice enabled us to concurrently characterize the temporal expression of Atoh1 protein (through HA‐tag immunostaining) and visualize the cells expressing Atoh1 mRNA (as tdTomato+ cells). Our findings show that whereas Atoh1 mRNA expression is rapidly turned on in early cochlear progenitors, Atoh1 protein is only detected in differentiating HCs or progenitors just committed to the HC fate. Cre activity is also stronger in Atoh13*HA‐P2A‐Cre/+ than in previous mouse models, because almost all cochlear HCs and nearby supporting cells here are tdTomato+. Furthermore, tdTomato, but not HA, is expressed in middle and apical spiral ganglion neurons.

Conclusion

Collectively, our findings indicate that Atoh13*HA‐P2A‐Cre can serve as a powerful genetic model in the developmental biology field.
Woody‐plant encroachment: Precipitation, herbivory, and grass‐competition interact to affect shrub recruitment
Authors: Weber‐Grullon Luis , Gherardi Laureano , Rutherford William A. , Archer Steven R. , Sala Osvaldo E.
Published: January 2022

Woody‐plant encroachment is a global phenomenon that has been affecting the southwestern United States since the late 1800s. Drought, overgrazing, herbivory, and competition between grasses and shrub seedlings have been hypothesized as the main drivers of shrub establishment. However, there is limited knowledge about the interactions among these drivers. Using a rainfall manipulation system and various herbivore exclosures, we tested hypotheses about how precipitation (PPT), competition between grasses and shrub seedlings, and predation affect the germination and first‐year survival of mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa), a shrub that has encroached in Southern Great Plains and Chihuahuan Desert grasslands. We found that mesquite germination and survival (1) increased with increasing PPT, then saturated at about the mean growing season PPT level, (2) that competition between grasses and shrub seedlings had no effect on either germination or survival, and (3) that herbivory by small mammals decreased seedling establishment and survival, while ant granivory showed no effect. In addition to its direct positive effect on survival, PPT had an indirect negative effect via increasing small mammal activity. Current models predict a decrease in PPT in the southwestern United States with increased frequency of extreme events. The non‐linear nature of PPT effects on Mesquite recruitment suggests asymmetric responses, wherein drought has a relatively greater negative effect than the positive effect of wet years. Indirect effects of PPT, through its effects on small mammal abundance, highlight the importance of accounting for interactions between biotic and abiotic drivers of shrub encroachment. This study provides quantitative basis for developing tools that can inform effective shrub management strategies in grasslands and savannas.
Considerations on triangular‐shaped electrodes for deoxyribonuclease detection
Authors: Oku Seimei , Higashitani Keisuke , Himuro Takahiro , Eguchi Masanori
Published: January 2022

In this paper, complex impedance locus of the triangular‐shaped electrodes with immobilized λDNAs were calculated by numerical simulations. Compare with the impedance of the electrodes with immobilized λDNAs, its impedance after deoxyribonuclease (DNase) treatment were increased by about three times or more. The DNA molecules can be applied to electrical detection of DNase, which is a candidate biomarker for acute myocardial infarction.
Grappling with uncertainty in ecological projections: a case study using the migratory monarch butterfly
Authors: Neupane Naresh , Zipkin Elise F. , Saunders Sarah P. , Ries Leslie
Published: January 2022

Projecting species’ responses to future climate conditions is critical for anticipating conservation challenges and informing proactive policy and management decisions. However, best practices for choosing climate models for projection ensembles are currently in flux. We compared including a maximum number of models against trimming ensembles based on model validation. This was done within the emerging practice of ensemble building using an increasingly larger number of global climate models (GCMs) for future projections. We used recently reported estimates on primary drivers of population fluctuations for the migratory monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) to examine how multiple sources of uncertainty impact population forecasts for a well‐studied species. We compared mean spring temperature and precipitation observed in Texas from 1980 to 2005 with predictions from 16 GCMs to determine which of the models performed best. We then built tailored climate projections accumulating both temperature (in the form of growing degree days) and rainfall using both “complete” (all 16) and “trimmed” (best‐performing) ensembles based on three emission scenarios. We built the tailored projections of spring growing conditions to assess the range of possible climate outcomes and their potential impacts on monarch development. Results were similar when mean predictions were compared between trimmed and complete ensembles. However, when daily projections and uncertainty were accumulated over the entire spring season, we showed substantial differences between ensembles in terms of possible ecological outcomes. Ensembles that used all 16 GCMs included so much uncertainty that projections for future spring conditions ranged from being too cold to too hot for monarch development. GCMs based on best‐performing metrics provided much more useful information, projecting higher spring temperatures for developing monarch larvae in the future which could lead to larger summer populations but also suggesting risk from excessive heat. When there is a strong basis for identifying mechanistic drivers of population dynamics, our results support using a smaller subset of validated GCMs to bracket a range of the most defensible future environmental conditions tailored to the species of interest. Yet understating uncertainty remains a risk, and we recommend clearly articulating the rationale and consequences of selecting GCMs for long‐term projections.