bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Stretchable Polymer Conductor Through the Mutual Plasticization Effect
Authors: Bai Yihong , Li Weizhen , Tie Yuan , Kou Yan , Wang Yi‐Xuan , Hu Wenping
Published: June 2023

Intrinsically stretchable conductors play key roles in the dynamic interfacing of electronic devices with soft human tissues. However, it is difficult to simultaneously achieve high electrical conductivity and mechanical stretchability. Here, highly stretchable and conductive thin film electrodes are prepared by combining PEDOT:PSS and a mutually plasticized polymer dopant. Notably, harsh acid treatment for conductivity enhancement is avoided, and good solvent tolerance and high optical transparency are realized, all of which are essential to device fabrication. A transparent electrochromic display is further developed that can bear stretching up to 80% strain, demonstrating its promising application in next‐generation optoelectronics.
In Situ Synthesis of Chemically Bonded 2D/2D Covalent Organic Frameworks/O‐Vacancy WO3 Z‐Scheme Heterostructure for Photocatalytic Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Shen Rongchen , Liang Guijie , Hao Lei , Zhang Peng , Li Xin
Published: June 2023

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have shown great promise for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution via water splitting. However, the four‐electron oxidation of water remains elusive toward oxygen evolution. Enabling this water oxidation pathway is critical to improve the yield and maximize atom utilization efficiency. A Z‐scheme heterojunction is proposed for overcoming fundamental issues in COF‐based photocatalytic overall water splitting (OWS), such as inefficient light absorption, charge recombination, and poor water oxidation ability. It is shown that the construction of a novel 2D/2D Z‐scheme heterojunction through in situ growth of COFs on the O‐vacancy WO3 nanosheets (Ov‐WO3) via the WOC chemical bond can remarkably promote photocatalytic OWS. Benefiting from the synergistic effect between the enhanced built‐in electric field by the interfacial WOC bond, the strong water oxidation ability of Ov‐WO3, and the ultrathin structure of TSCOF, both separation and utilization efficiency of photogenerated electron–hole pairs can be significantly enhanced. An impressive photocatalytic hydrogen evolution half‐rection rate of 593 mmol h−1 g−1 and overall water splitting rate of 146 (hydrogen) and 68 (oxygen) µmol h−1 g−1 are achieved on the COF‐WO3 (TSCOFW) composite. This 2D/2D Z‐scheme heterojunction with two‐step excitation and precisely cascaded charge‐transfer pathway makes it responsible for the efficient solar‐driven OWS without a sacrificial agent.
Electrochemically Mediated Fixation of CO2: Synthesis of Functionalized Oxazolidine‐2,4‐Diones by Three‐Component Reactions
Authors: Xiong Ting‐Kai , Xia Qiang , Zhou Xue‐Qi , Li Shu‐Hui , Cui Fei‐Hu , Tang Hai‐Tao , Pan Ying‐Ming , Liang Ying
Published: June 2023

Carbon dioxide is a harmful greenhouse gas, as well as a valuable resource. Here, a three‐component cyclization reaction was developed for the synthesis of oxazolidine‐2,4‐diones by immobilizing CO2 under the electrochemistry and copper catalyst. Propargyl amide was used as the reaction substrate to capture carbon dioxide to produce carboxyl anion, while selenide produced electrophilic receptor to activate the triple bond under electrochemical conditions. Then, intramolecular cyclization reaction was carried out to obtain the target product. Through this environmentally friendly strategy, a series of important oxazolidine‐2,4‐diones was synthesized.
Environmentally Benign Partially Delignified and Microwave Processed Bamboo‐Based Drinking Straws
Authors: Rai Rohit , Ranjan Rahul , Kant Chandra , Ghosh Udita Uday , Dhar Prodyut
Published: June 2023

Single‐use plastic straws are a significant environmental concern as they pollute the ecosystem and drastically harm humans and aquatic organisms. Paper straws, as an alternative have limitations such as weak mechanical properties, poor water stability, and the use of coatings or adhesives that hinder their biodegradability. The present study reports a facile approach for preparing mechanically robust, water‐stable, and biodegradable straws using partially delignified and microwave (MW) treated bamboo. The MW‐processed bamboo‐based straws present water stability for up to 16 h and a contact angle of 87.8°, suggesting low wettability and water stability for long periods. The processed straws show improved tensile strength of 59.3 MPa, Young's modulus of 988 MPa, and a flexural strength of 13.9 MPa, along with >97% biodegradation (98 days). MW treatment is a rapid and low‐cost strategy for physiochemical modification that can be used for the large‐scale production of drinking straws from biomass. The life cycle analysis (LCA) shows that MW‐irradiated bamboo straws generate 86.53% less global warming potential (GWP) impact during production and 91.8% less human health damage impact during end‐of‐life (EOL), compared to plastic straws. MW‐treated drinking straws from bamboo can thus become a low‐cost, eco‐friendly, biodegradable, and sustainable alternative to paper and plastic straws.
Machine Learning for Semiconductor Process Simulation Described by Coupled Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Sato Rikuya , Kutsukake Kentaro , Harada Shunta , Tagawa Miho , Ujihara Toru
Published: June 2023

Technology computer‐aided design (TCAD) simulation is an important tool for the development of semiconductor devices. Based on coupled partial differential equations (PDEs) for behaviors, TCAD can calculate objects such as impurities, point defects, and electronic carriers in semiconductors. However, over recent years semiconductor devices have become increasingly miniaturized and complicated, resulting in much longer calculation times for TCAD. Machine learning is one technology that may be used to overcome this simulation cost problem. In this study, a neural network architecture is proposed that considers the structure of the coupled PDEs. Features representing each concentration distribution of the calculation objects are extracted by convolution operations and their reaction is modeled by channel attention. The performance of the proposed architecture and of conventional neural network models is evaluated using a simulation dataset generated by 1D coupled PDEs that models the diffusion and reaction of vacancies and interstitial atoms. In addition, the advantage of the method is discussed through the analyses of error correlations of the two predictions and attention coefficients. The machine learning method developed in this study will be applicable to other physics described by coupled PDEs and is expected to speed up the computation of simulations in various fields.
Lentil–cereal intercropping in a Mediterranean area: Yield, pests and weeds
Authors: Tosti Giacomo , Falcinelli Beatrice , Guiducci Marcello
Published: June 2023

Introducing grain legumes into cereal‐based cropping systems can enhance crop diversification and related factors (e.g., farm N‐self‐sufficiency). Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) is a minor grain legume species that offers nutritional and other benefits when incorporated into diets. However, lentil production is often characterized by low and unstable yields due to drought, pests, and high yield losses during mechanical harvest. Intercropping is a promising agroecological‐based strategy that may overcome these drawbacks. Our objective was to determine if intercropping (i) enhanced crop productivity and resource use efficiency, and (ii) suppressed weeds and bruchid insect pest dynamics. To do this, two lentil–cereal intercropping mixtures were compared in central Italy during 2020 and 2021 as follows: (i) lentil + triticale (× Triticosecale Wittm., ‘Forricale’) and (ii) lentil + barley (Hordeum vulgare L., ‘Cometa’). Weed biomass was reduced by 97% because of the competitive ability of the grass component in intercrops compared to a lentil monocrop (p ≤ 0.05). Both intercrops reduced bruchid grain loss by 16% and showed higher efficiency than single pure stand crops (land equivalent ratio >1). Unfortunately, the highly competitive effect of the cereal reduced lentil yield in intercrops by 59% (−40.3 g m−2, on average). Our results indicate that cereals should be planted at low densities, or the spatial arrangement of both species should be modified, to prevent suppression of lentils in intercrops with barley, triticale, and other small‐grain crops.
Community food environment and childhood obesity in a medium‐sized Brazilian city: An approach to school and neighborhood environments
Authors: Gardone Danielle Soares , Novaes Juliana Farias , de Albuquerque Fernanda Martins , Filgueiras Mariana De Santis , Novaes Taiane Gonçalves , Mendes Larissa Loures , Pessoa Milene Cristine
Published: June 2023

Objective

We aimed to analyze the relationship of community food environments with childhood obesity in a medium‐sized Brazilian city.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional study with 366 schoolchildren aged 8 and 9 years. Children's body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and concentrations of total cholesterol (TC), high cholesterol density lipoprotein (HDL‐c), low cholesterol density lipoprotein (LDL‐c) and triglycerides (TG) were measured. The parent's nutritional status was assessed by calculating the BMI. All food stores within a 200‐ and 400‐m radius buffers of schools and households were evaluated. The food stores were classified as healthy, unhealthy, and mixed according to the predominance of foods commercialized. Binary logistic regression models were proposed for each category.

Results

Over seventy percent (70.2%) of the food stores were categorized as “unhealthy”. The prevalence of obesity was 15.6%. In the 200‐m buffer around schools, there was an inverse and direct association between obesity and the presence of healthy food stores and unhealthy food stores, respectively. Around the households, there was an inverse association between the presence of healthy food stores and obesity in both buffers.

Conclusion

The community food environment may be protective or potentiating childhood obesity, depending on the access and types of food sold.
Pembrolizumab‐associated chronic rhinosinusitis: A new endotype and management considerations
Authors: Standiford Taylor C. , Patel Neil N. , Singh Amritpal , Gochman Grant , Jamie Wu Tara , Daud Adil I. , Goldberg Andrew N.
Published: June 2023

KEY POINTS

Patients treated with pembrolizumab experience an increase in paranasal sinus inflammation

Use of topical triamcinolone in carboxymethylcellulose is a treatment option for such patients
Biology and function of pericytes in the vascular microcirculation
Authors: Wu Yue , Fu Jiaqi , Huang Yuxia , Duan Ruowang , Zhang Wentian , Wang Caihong , Wang Shang , Hu Xiaoyi , Zhao Hui , Wang Lan , Liu Jinming , Gao Guosheng , Yuan Ping
Published: June 2023

Pericytes are the main cellular components of tiny arteries and capillaries. Studies have found that pericytes can undergo morphological contraction or relaxation under stimulation by cytokines, thus affecting the contraction and relaxation of microvessels and playing an essential role in regulating vascular microcirculation. Moreover, due to the characteristics of stem cells, pericytes can differentiate into a variety of inflammatory cell phenotypes, which then affect the immune function. Additionally, pericytes can also participate in angiogenesis and wound healing by interacting with endothelial cells in vascular microcirculation disorders. Here we review the origin, biological phenotype and function of pericytes, and discuss the potential mechanisms of pericytes in vascular microcirculation disorders, especially in pulmonary hypertension, so as to provide a sound basis and direction for the prevention and treatment of vascular microcirculation diseases.
Single‐atom Iron Catalyst with Biomimetic Active Center to Accelerate Proton Spillover for Medical‐level Electrosynthesis of H2O2Disinfectant
Authors: Li Yan , Chen Junxiang , Ji Yaxin , Zhao Zilin , Cui Wenjun , Sang Xiahan , Cheng Yi , Yang Bin , Li Zhongjian , Zhang Qinghua , Lei Lecheng , Wen Zhenhai , Dai Liming , Hou Yang
Published: June 2023

Electrosynthesis of H2O2has great potential for directly converting O2into disinfectant, yet it is still a big challenge to develop effective electrocatalysts for medical‐level H2O2production. Herein, we report the design and fabrication of electrocatalysts with biomimetic active centers, consisting of single atomic iron asymmetrically coordinated with both nitrogen and sulfur, dispersed on hierarchically porous carbon (FeSA‐NS/C). The newly‐developed FeSA‐NS/C catalyst exhibited a high catalytic activity and selectivity for oxygen reduction to produce H2O2at a high current of 100 mA cm−2with a record high H2O2selectivity of 90 %. An accumulated H2O2concentration of 5.8 wt.% is obtained for the electrocatalysis process, which is sufficient for medical disinfection. Combined theoretical calculations and experimental characterizations verified the rationally‐designed catalytic active center with the atomic Fe site stabilized by three‐coordinated nitrogen atoms and one‐sulfur atom (Fe‐N3S‐C). It was further found that the replacement of one N atom with S atom in the classical Fe‐N4‐C active center could induce an asymmetric charge distribution over N atoms surrounding the Fe reactive center to accelerate proton spillover for a rapid formation of the OOH* intermediate, thus speeding up the whole reaction kinetics of oxygen reduction for H2O2electrosynthesis.
Über Carbenintermediate in der AlI vermittelten Homologisierung von Isocyaniden
Authors: Zhang Cuijuan , Dankert Fabian , Jiang Ziang , Wang Baolu , Munz Dominik , Chu Jiaxiang
Published: June 2023

Im Fischer–Tropsch (FT) Prozess werden C−C Bindungen zwischen C1 Bausteinen geknüpft. Die Knüpfung solcher C−C Bindungen ist von großem Interesse in vielen Katalysezyklen. In dieser Arbeit beschreiben wir die Reaktion zwischen dem neutralen AlI Komplex (MeNacNac)Al (1, MeNacNac=HC[(CMe)(NDipp)]2, Dipp=2,6‐diisopropylphenyl) und verschiedenen Isocyaniden, welche somit als Modelle für den FT‐Prozess dienen. Der Stufenmechanismus wurde mittels Tieftemperatur NMR Monitoring, Isotopenmarkierung sowie quantenchemischen Rechnungen untersucht. Drei verschiedene Produkte konnten nach der Reaktion von 1 mit dem sterisch anspruchsvollen 2,6‐bis(Benzhydryl)‐4‐Me‐Phenyl Isocyanid (BhpNC) isoliert werden und belegen transiente Carbenintermediate. Die Reaktion von 1 mit Adamantylisocyanid (AdNC) ergab ein Trimerisierungsprodukt, wobei ein Carbenintermediat in Form eines Mo0 Komplexes abgefangen werden konnte. Tri‐, Tetra‐, sowie Pentamerisierungsprodukte wurden mit den sterisch weniger anspruchsvollen Phenyl‐ und p‐Methoxyphenylisocyaniden (PhNC und PMPNC) unter Ausbildung von Quinolin‐ und Indolheterozyklen erhalten. Diese Arbeit belegt Carbenintermediate in der FT‐Chemie von AlI mit Isocyaniden.
Evidence for Carbene Intermediates in Isocyanide Homologation by Aluminium(I)
Authors: Zhang Cuijuan , Dankert Fabian , Jiang Ziang , Wang Baolu , Munz Dominik , Chu Jiaxiang
Published: June 2023

The C−C bond formation between C1 molecules plays an important role in chemistry as manifested by the Fischer–Tropsch (FT) process. Serving as models for the FT process, we report here the reactions between a neutral AlIcomplex (MeNacNac)Al (1,MeNacNac=HC[(CMe)(NDipp)]2, Dipp=2,6‐diisopropylphenyl) and various isocyanides. The step‐by‐step coupling mechanism was studied in detail by low‐temperature NMR monitoring, isotopic labeling, as well as quantum chemical calculations. Three different products were isolated in reaction of1with the sterically encumbered 2,6‐bis(benzhydryl)‐4‐Me‐phenyl isocyanide (BhpNC). These products substantiate carbene intermediates. The reaction between1and adamantyl isocyanide (AdNC) generated a trimerization product, and a corresponding carbene intermediate could be trapped in the form of a molybdenum(0) complex. Tri‐, tetra‐, and even pentamerization products were isolated with the sterically less congested phenyl andp‐methoxyphenyl isocyanides (PhNC and PMPNC) with concurrent construction of quinoline or indole heterocycles. Overall, this study provides evidence for carbene intermediates in FT‐type chemistry of aluminium(I) and isocyanides.
Synthesis of solid reactive organophosphorus‐nitrogen flame retardant and its application in epoxy resin
Authors: Chen Chaojiu , Wang Xinlong , Luo Tao , Zhen Honggang , Yang Xiuying , Yang Lin , Yan Zhengjuan
Published: June 2023

A solid reactive organophosphorus‐nitrogen flame retardant 4N‐BDP was devised and synthesized in order to address the flaws of the widely used organophosphorus flame retardants BDP as well as the issue of flame retardant modification of epoxy resin (EP). A series of flame‐retardant EP composites were prepared by adding 4N‐BDP and BDP to EP in a specific proportion. The flame‐retardant properties of the two were compared, and the flame‐retardant mechanism of 4N‐BDP was deeply analyzed. The results of the UL‐94 test revealed that sample 4N‐BDP‐6 obtained the greatest V‐0 level, while BDP‐6 had no level, when the addition ratio of flame retardant was 8.03%. In the cone calorimeter test, the peak smoke production rate (pSPR) and total smoke production (TSP) of BDP‐6 were not significantly different from those of pure EP. In contrast, TSP and pSPR of 4N‐BDP‐6 decreased by 39.50% and 50.00% respectively compared with EP. Compared with BDP, 4N‐BDP shows better flame retardancy and smoke suppression performance, which can significantly improve the fire resistance of EP. The flame‐retardant mechanism of 4N‐BDP was resolved by scanning electron microscopy, XPS, and thermogravimetric analysis/infrared spectrometry. 4N‐BDP can increase the residual carbon rate of the composites, improve the residual carbon strength, play an excellent condensed phase flame retardant effect, and avoid further decomposition of the materials. In the gas phase, the decomposition of 4N‐BDP produces PO·, PO2· and NH3, which play a good quenching effect and dilution effect. The escape of NH3 will leave bubbles in the residual carbon, making the residual carbon more fluffy, further improving the ability of heat insulation and oxygen insulation, and enhancing the flame retardant effect of the condensed phase. In general, the flame‐retardant mechanism of 4N‐BDP is a synergistic combination of condensed phase and gas phase flame retardant mechanism. This work provides a new approach to improve the defects of organophosphorus flame retardant BDP commonly used in the market and enhance the fire resistance of EP.
Novel application of Zn‐containing Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks in promoting the vulcanization and mechanical properties of natural rubber composites
Authors: Tian Xing , Hu Jie , Sun Xin , Duan Yongxin , Jiang Min
Published: June 2023

Three kinds of Zn‐containing Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks (Zn‐ZIFs, including ZIF‐8, ZIF‐11 and ZIF‐14) based on the zinc ions coordinating with different imidazolate ligands were added into the natural rubber (NR) using the DM and TMTD binary accelerators system, respectively. The influences of Zn‐ZIFs on the sulfur vulcanization behaviors and mechanical properties of NR matrix were evaluated. The results indicated that the addition of ZIF‐8 or ZIF‐14 could realize the fast vulcanization of NR at 130°C (the ordinary vulcanization temperature of NR is above 150°C), while ZIF‐11 did not show the obvious accelerating performance. Amongst the three Zn‐ZIFs, ZIF‐8 benefited NR matrix for the acquirement of the highest tensile strength and the largest crosslinking density. As an optimal additive, ZIF‐8 with 0.6 phr distinctly improved the physical‐mechanical, thermo‐oxidative aging resistance and dynamic mechanical properties of NR composites. It proved that Zn atom and its coordination porous network in Zn‐ZIFs played synergistic effects in accelerating vulcanization and enhancing mechanical properties of NR matrix besides its role of reinforcement filler. Then the above ZIF‐8/DM/TMTD vulcanization system was used to prepare the UHMWPE fibers/NR composites. The mechanical properties of the UHMWPE/NR composites were significantly improved in contrast to the pure NR matrix.
A Kuhnian revolution in molecular biology: Most genes in complex organisms express regulatory RNAs
Authors: Mattick John S.
Published: June 2023

Thomas Kuhn described the progress of science as comprising occasional paradigm shifts separated by interludes of ‘normal science’. The paradigm that has held sway since the inception of molecular biology is that genes (mainly) encode proteins. In parallel, theoreticians posited that mutation is random, inferred that most of the genome in complex organisms is non‐functional, and asserted that somatic information is not communicated to the germline. However, many anomalies appeared, particularly in plants and animals: the strange genetic phenomena of paramutation and transvection; introns; repetitive sequences; a complex epigenome; lack of scaling of (protein‐coding) genes and increase in ‘noncoding’ sequences with developmental complexity; genetic loci termed ‘enhancers’ that control spatiotemporal gene expression patterns during development; and a plethora of ‘intergenic’, overlapping, antisense and intronic transcripts. These observations suggest that the original conception of genetic information was deficient and that most genes in complex organisms specify regulatory RNAs, some of which convey intergenerational information. Also see the video abstract here: https://youtu.be/qxeGwahBANw
Influence of cell specific parameters in a dielectric spectroscopy conversion model used to monitor viable cell density in bioreactors
Authors: Schini Adèle , De Canditiis Bartolomeo , Sanchez Célia , Pierrelee Michaël , Voltz Karine‐Elise , Jourdainne Laurent
Published: June 2023

In the biopharmaceutical industry, the use of mammalian cells to produce therapeutic proteins is becoming increasingly widespread. Monitoring of these cultures via different analysis techniques is essential to ensure a good quality product while respecting good manufacturing practice (GMP) regulations. Process Analytical Technologies (PAT) tools provide real‐time measurements of the physiological state of the culture and enable process automation. Dielectric spectroscopy is a PAT that can be used to monitor the viable cell concentration (VCC) of living cells after processing raw permittivity data. Several modeling approaches exist and estimate biomass with different accuracy. The accuracy of the Cole–Cole and Maxwell Wagner's equations are studied here in the determination of the VCC and cell radius in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) culture. A sensitivity analysis performed on the parameters entering the equations highlighted the importance of the cell specific parameters such as internal conductivity (σi) and membrane capacitance (Cm) in the accuracy of the estimation of VCC and cell radius. The most accurate optimization method found to improve the accuracy involves in‐process adjustments of Cm and σi in the model equations with samplings from the bioreactor. This combination of offline and in situ data improved the estimation precision of the VCC by 69% compared to a purely mechanistic model without offline adjustments.
Theoretical Investigation of the Mechanism of the Hock Rearrangement with InCl3 as Catalyst**
Authors: Fayet Agathe , Bourcier Sophie , Casaretto Nicolas , Nay Bastien , Frison Gilles
Published: June 2023

The Hock rearrangement is an acid catalyzed reaction involving organic hydroperoxides and resulting in an oxidative cleavage of adjacent C−C bonds. It has significant industrial applications, like the production of phenol (cumene process), but it remains scarcely used in organic synthesis. In addition, its detailed mechanism has never been studied. Thus, we report herein a theoretical study of the Hock rearrangement, using InCl3 as a Lewis acid catalyst. The aim of this work was to fully understand the mechanism of this fundamental reaction, and to rationalize the influence of the substrate electronic properties on the reaction outcome. Furthermore, the structure of the active indium(III) catalyst interacting with the peroxide substrate was investigated, revealing the co‐existence of several energetically close reaction pathways. The coordinated monomeric form of the Lewis acid emerges as the most active catalyst compared to dimeric species. However, we show that In2Cl6 species coordinated to the substrate are central in this catalytic cycle, primarily serving as a reservoir of active monomeric species.
Solid‐Contact Sensor Based on Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIPs) for Direct Potentiometric Assessment of 2,4,6‐Trichlorophenol as a Persistent Organic Pollutant
Authors: Shanaah Haneen H. , Ameen Zahraa , Jaafar Kawthar , Hefnawy A. , Abd‐Rabboh Hisham S. M. , Kamel Ayman H.
Published: June 2023

2,4,6‐trichlorophenol (TCP) is regarded as a very harmful persistent organic pollutant. It is prohibited by the US EPA due to its stability, possible toxicity, and substantial carcinogenicity, which could result in long‐term harm to both the environment and living things. A novel solid‐contact electrode (SCE) is fabricated and characterized for potentiometric determination of 2,4,6‐trichlorophenol (2,4,6‐TCP). Molecularly imprinted trichlorophenol polymer (MIP) beads are used as a recognition receptor for potentiometric determination of this persistent organic pollutant. The MIPs are synthesized using 4‐vinyl pyridine (4‐VP) and N,N′‐Methylene bis(acrylamide) (N,N‐MBAA) as functional monomer and cross‐linking agent, respectively. They are embedded in a selective polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane on the top of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), which is used as an ion to electron transducer. The SCE exhibits a Nernstian response with a slope of −55.4±2.1 mV/decade (R2=0.999) over the concentration range of 8.0×10−6 to 1.0×10−4 M, a detection limit of 5.0×10−7 M (0.98 μg/mL), and a response time of <10 s. Using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and chronopotentiometry (CP), the suggested SCE′s interfacial capacitance is measured. The interfacial capacitance was increased using MWCNTs and reached 39.7 μF. Also, it prevented the undesirable thin water layer from forming between the conducting glassy carbon (GC) substrate and the sensing membrane. As a result, potential stability is improved, and membrane delamination is avoided. The suggested SCE had a wide range of applications for monitoring TCP in various environmental samples because of the high selectivity, sensitivity, and possible stability that were attained.
Plastic Waste Utilization via Chemical Recycling: Approaches, Limitations, and the Challenges Ahead
Authors: Biessey Philip , Vogel Julia , Seitz Mathias , Quicker Peter
Published: June 2023

Chemical recycling offers the opportunity to foster the transition towards a circular economy for plastics as a complementary strategy for mechanical recycling. For the implementation of chemical recycling technologies, there are still significant challenges ahead that – besides the definition of binding legal frameworks – need for intensified research: knowledge‐based methods for both the identification of suitable process technologies considering decentralized waste conditions and the design of conversion steps and downstream processing are strongly needed for process development and process evaluation.
Room‐Temperature High‐Performance Trace Level Acetone Sensor Based on Polypyrrole Nanotubes
Authors: Adhikari Monalisa , Das Sagnik , Chattopadhyay Dipankar , Saha Debdulal , Pal Mrinal
Published: June 2023

Recently, precise detection of VOCs in particular acetone, ammonia alcohol has attracted huge attention for industrial safety, monitoring of environment and human health. In this article we have reported for a polypyrrole nanotube (PPNT)‐based chemiresistive sensor for the selective detection of trace acetone vapour at room temperature (25 °C). Polypyrrole (PPy) nanoparticles with different morphologies, viz. nanotubes, nanowire, and globular were synthesized using methyl orange (MO), cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB), and pure polypyrrole as the growth template. The as synthesized powders were exploited to fabricate Taguchi‐type thick‐film sensors. The synthesized powders and fabricated sensors were characterized by multiple sophisticated techniques, such as, XRD, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, SEM, EDS, UV‐VIS spectroscopy, optical non‐contact profilometry, and current‐Voltage (I‐V) measurement. It is observed that the PPNT sensor shows the highest response to trace acetone vapour with a lower detection limit of 500 ppb at room temperature (25 °C) and quick response (∼5.4 sec) and recovery (∼73.94 sec) times. Achieved enhanced sensing behaviour can be attributed to formation of hydrogen bond between acetone and PPy. Combined with room temperature sensing, good stability, repeatability, produce sensor may find application in various sensing fields.
High Alkaline Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution on a Pt/GaN Heterostructure
Authors: Liu Chaozhong , Niu Chunyao , Gao Bo , Jiang Pingli , Lin Qiyao , Wu Wenzhuo , Jia Yu , Wei Zhongming , Xu Qun
Published: June 2023

The construction of suitable metal/substrate interfaces that can synergistically optimize the water dissociation, hydrogen transfer and hydrogen adsorption processes has proved to be a promising approach to boost the alkaline electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) but remains challenging. Herein, a Pt/GaN heterostructure electrocatalyst is constructed using the electrochemical deposition technique and used for alkaline electrochemical HER. The as‐synthesized Pt/GaN catalyst exhibits competitive HER performance, including low overpotentials of 24 and 441 mV to reach current densities of 10 and 1000 mA cm−2, respectively, and a superior mass activity (7.34 A mgPt−1 at the overpotential of 100 mV), which is 25.7 and 5.0 times higher than commercial Pt/C and as‐synthesized Pt/CP, respectively. First‐principle calculations suggest that the Pt/GaN heterostructure can greatly reduce the energy barrier for H2O dissociation, create a local acid‐like microenvironment through a H spillover process and optimize the value of ΔGH, leading to a remarkable acceleration of the alkaline HER kinetics. This discovery provides new insights for the development of alkaline HER catalysts.
Treatment of endoscopic ultrasound‐guided coil deployment for isolated gastric varices using 0.035‐inch hydrocoil: Experience of three cases
Authors: Nagashima Kazunori , Kashima Ken , Kunogi Yasuhito , Sakuma Fumi , Fukushi Koh , Yamamiya Akira , Abe Yoko , Tominaga Keiichi , Iijima Makoto , Goda Kenichi , Romero-Castro Rafael , Irisawa Atsushi
Published: June 2023

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐guided coil deployment (EUS‐coiling) has been newly developed for treating isolated gastric varices (iGV). This report describes three cases of EUS‐coiling for iGV using a 0.035‐inch hydrocoil (Azur; Terumo Corp., Tokyo, Japan). When used for EUS‐coiling, this hydrocoil provides the following benefits: Its electrically detachable system allows pull back. It has smooth and dense deployment. Moreover, it has a strong blood‐flow blocking effect because of its long length and large diameter with internal swelling functions of the hydrogel. Technical success of coiling was achieved in all cases. After coiling, additional treatments such as cyanoacrylate and sclerosant injection were performed as deemed appropriate. All iGVs were obliterated successfully. No adverse event occurred during the procedure or during the mean follow‐up of six months. Our findings indicate that this 0.035‐inch hydrocoil can be used to treat iGV safely and effectively.
Maladaptive plastic responses of flowering time to geothermal heating
Authors: Ehrlén Johan , Valdés Alicia , Helmutsdóttir Vigdís F. , Marteinsdóttir Bryndís
Published: June 2023

Phenotypic plasticity might increase fitness if the conditions under which it evolved remain unaltered, but becomes maladaptive if the environment no longer provides reliable cues for subsequent conditions. In seasonal environments, timing of reproduction can respond plastically to spring temperature, maximizing the benefits of a long season while minimizing the exposure to unfavorable cold temperatures. However, if the relationship between early spring temperatures and later conditions changes, the optimal response might change. In geothermally heated ecosystems, the plastic response of flowering time to springtime soil temperature that has evolved in unheated areas is likely to be non‐optimal, because soil temperatures are higher and decoupled from air temperatures in heated areas. We therefore expect natural selection to favor a lower plasticity and a delayed flowering in these areas. Using observational data along a natural geothermal warming gradient, we tested the hypothesis that selection on flowering time depends on soil temperature and favors later flowering on warmer soils in the perennial Cerastium fontanum. In both study years, plants growing in warmer soils began flowering earlier than plants growing in colder soils, suggesting that first flowering date (FFD) responds plastically to soil temperature. In one of the two study years, selection favored earlier flowering in colder soils but later flowering in warmer soils, suggesting that the current level of plastic advance of FFD on warmer soils may be maladaptive in some years. Our results illustrate the advantages of using natural experiments, such as geothermal ecosystems, to examine selection in environments that recently have undergone major changes. Such knowledge is essential to understand and predict both ecological and evolutionary responses to climate warming.
Physicochemical properties of Kakol (Suaeda aegyptiaca) essential oil nanoemulsion and its effect on the storage quality of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) during cold storage
Authors: Zibaee Payam , Shamekhi Mohammad‐Amin
Published: June 2023

The study aims to analyze the chemical composition of Suaeda aegyptiaca essential oil (PSAE) by GC–MS, produce the nanoemulsified essential oil (NSAE) using ultrasound, and compare the antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of the PSAE and NSAE in laboratory medium and rainbow trout fish (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Geranyl‐acetone (30.52%) and p‐Vinylguaiacol (10.66%), and (e)‐β‐ionone (7.79%) were the main PSAE chemical compounds. The mean droplet size diameter, polydispersity index, and viscosity of NSAE were 179.67 nm, 0.255, and 0.96 cP, respectively. PSAE and NSAE showed a moderate antiradical potential against DPPH‐ and ABTS‐free radicals (50 < IC50 < 250 μg mL−1). There was no significant difference between antiradical scavenging of PSAE and NSAE (p > .05). E. faecalis and K. pneumonia were the most and lowest sensitive bacteria to PSAE and NSAE, respectively. Examining different treatments on the shelf‐life of minced fish showed that Kakol essential oil could improve the shelf‐life of fish between 12.5% and 60% (depending on quality index). There was no significant difference between the bioactivity of PSAE and NSAE, which means that the nanoemulsion showed acceptable performance at lower essential oil concentrations.
The impact of long‐term care insurance system on family care: Evidence from China
Authors: Cao Siyuan , Xue Huiyuan
Published: June 2023

Aims

The inconsistent findings on the impact of the long‐term care insurance (LTCI) system on family care require us to extend our study horizon to more countries with LTCI system designs or market practices. China has explored the LTCI system through pilot programs, which provide a quasi‐natural experimental environment. This paper aims to examine how the LTCI system affects family care in China.

Methods

We primarily employ the time‐varying difference‐in‐differences method to perform regression analyses based on the panel data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study.

Results

We discover a 7.2% rise in family care under the LTCI system. Specifically, the LTCI system is more likely to promote family care as the relatively primary care for disabled women, disabled people aged 60–74, and those who cannot fully take care of themselves. In addition, the formal care support policy of LTCI will crowd in both formal care and family care, and the crowding‐in‐effect on formal care may even obscure the crowding‐in‐effect on family care. The family care support policy of LTCI may encourage the policy‐covered groups to take family care as their relatively primary care. It may also lengthen family care for those groups.

Conclusions

The LTCI system has a crowding‐in effect on family care. It can increase family care through cash payments or linking formal and informal care resources by providing formal community and home care.
A highly versatile biopolymer‐based platform for the maturation of human pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes enables functional analysis in vitro and 3D printing of heart patches
Authors: Fischer B. , Gwinner F. , Gepp M. M. , Schulz A. , Danz K. , Dehne A. , Katsen‐Globa A. , Neubauer J. C. , Gentile L. , Zimmermann H.
Published: June 2023

Human pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes (hPSC‐CMs) represent a valuable tool for in vitro modeling of the cardiac niche and possess great potential in tissue engineering applications. However, conventional polystyrene‐based cell culture substrates have adverse effects on cardiomyocytes in vitro due to the stress applied by a stiff substrate on contractile cells. Ultra‐high viscosity alginates offer a unique versatility as tunable substrates for cardiac cell cultures due to their biocompatibility, flexible biofunctionalization, and stability. In this work, we analyzed the effect of alginate substrates on hPSC‐CM maturity and functionality. Alginate substrates in high‐throughput compatible culture formats fostered a more mature gene expression and enabled the simultaneous assessment of chronotropic and inotropic effects upon beta‐adrenergic stimulation. Furthermore, we produced 3D‐printed alginate scaffolds with differing mechanical properties and plated hPSC‐CMs on the surface of these to create Heart Patches for tissue engineering applications. These exhibited synchronous macro‐contractions in concert with more mature gene expression patterns and extensive intracellular alignment of sarcomeric structures. In conclusion, the combination of biofunctionalized alginates and human cardiomyocytes represents a valuable tool for both in vitro modeling and regenerative medicine, due to its beneficial effects on cardiomyocyte physiology, the possibility to analyze cardiac contractility, and its applicability as Heart Patches.
Cellular composition modifies the biological properties and stability of platelet rich plasma membranes for tissue engineering
Authors: Anitua Eduardo , Zalduendo Mar , Troya María , Tierno Roberto , Alkhraisat Mohammad H.
Published: June 2023

Scaffolds should provide structural support for tissue regeneration, allowing their gradual biodegradation and interacting with cells and bioactive molecules to promote remodeling. Thus, the scaffold's intrinsic properties affect cellular processes involved in tissue regeneration, including migration, proliferation, differentiation, and protein synthesis. In this sense, due to its biological effect and clinical potential, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) fibrin could be considered a successful scaffold. Given the high variability in commercial PRPs formulations, this research focused on assessing the influence of cellular composition on fibrin membrane stability and remodeling cell activity. The stability and biological effect were evaluated at different time points via D‐dimer, type I collagen and elastase quantification in culture media conditioned by Plasma Rich in Growth Factors – Fraction 1 (PRGF‐F1), Plasma Rich in Growth Factors – Whole Plasma (PRGF‐WP) and Leukocyte‐rich Platelet Rich Plasma (L‐PRP) membranes, and by gingival fibroblast cells seeded on them, respectively. Ultrastructure of PRP membranes was also evaluated. Histological analyses were performed after 5 and 18 days. Additionally, the effect of fibrin membranes on cell proliferation was determined. According to the results, L‐PRP fibrin membranes degradation was complete at the end of the study, while PRGF membranes remained practically unchanged. Considering fibroblast behavior, PRGF membranes, in contrast to L‐PRP ones, promoted extracellular matrix biosynthesis at the same time as fibrinolysis and enhanced cell proliferation. In conclusion, leukocytes in PRP fibrin membranes drastically reduce scaffold stability and induce behavioral changes in fibroblasts by reducing their proliferation rate and remodeling ability.
Development of a novel vinylene‐linked covalent organic framework decorated with multi‐walled carbon nanotubes for electrochemical detection of tryptophan, uric acid, and 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine
Authors: Chung Chao‐Lin , Shih Tsung‐Ting , Lee Hui‐Ling
Published: June 2023

Background

In this study, a vinylene‐linked covalent organic framework (V‐COF‐1) was integrated with multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to create a modified electrode (V‐COF‐1/MWCNTs/SPCE) for electrochemical sensing applications.

Objective

This research focus to investigate the application of the modified electrode for the simultaneous determination of tryptophan (Trp), uric acid (UA), and 8‐hydroxy‐2'‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) in human urine samples and the mechanism between V‐COF‐1 and the analytes (Trp, UA, and 8‐OHdG) by studying tryptophan metabolites, dopamine, and L‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (L‐DOPA).

Methods

The electrochemical performance of V‐COF‐1/MWCNTs/SPCE was evaluated using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and use cyclic voltammetry (CV) to detect the modified electrode to explore its electrochemical properties.

Results

Under optimized conditions, V‐COF‐1/MWCNTs/SPCE exhibited efficient electron transfer for Trp, UA, and 8‐OHdG, with low detection limits (S/N = 3) of 0.03 μM, 0.06 μM, and 0.006 μM, respectively. The modified electrode demonstrated high selectivity for the target analytes in the presence of interfering species, as well as excellent repeatability and stability. The recoveries of Trp, UA, and 8‐OHdG in human urine samples ranged from 90.6% to 104.8%, which shows that this method has been successfully applied for the simultaneous detection of Trp, UA and 8‐OHdG in biological sample analysis.

Conclusions

The integration of V‐COF‐1 and MWCNTs onto the modified electrode showed promising results for the simultaneous detection of Trp, UA, and 8‐OHdG. The developed sensor exhibited excellent sensitivity, selectivity, repeatability, and stability. These findings contribute to the advancement of electrochemical sensor technology for biomedical applications and highlight the potential of V‐COF‐1/MWCNTs/SPCE in analytical chemistry.
Supporting Prospective Pregnancy Trials via Modeling and Simulation: Lessons From the Past and Recommendations for the Future
Authors: Cheung S. Y. Amy , Barrett Jeffrey S.
Published: June 2023

Despite the increasing awareness and guidance to support drug research and development in the pregnant population, there is still a high unmet medical need and off‐label use in the pregnant population for mainstream, acute, chronic, rare disease, and vaccination/prophylactic use. There are many obstacles to enrolling the pregnant population in a study, ranging from ethical considerations, the complexity of the pregnancy stages, postpartum, fetus–mother interaction, and drug transfer to breast milk during lactation and impacts on neonates. This review will outline the common challenges of incorporating physiological differences in the pregnant population and historical but noninformative practice in a past clinical trial in pregnant women that led to labeling difficulties. The recommendations of different modeling approaches, such as a population pharmacokinetic model, physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling, model‐based meta‐analysis, and quantitative system pharmacology modeling, are presented with some examples. Finally, we outline the gaps in the medical need for the pregnant population by classifying various types of diseases and some considerations that exist to support the use of medicines in this area. Ideas on the potential framework to support clinical trials and collaboration examples are also presented that could also accelerate understanding of drug research and medicine/prophylactics/vaccines in the pregnant population.
Erythema nodosum following COVID‐19 vaccination: A case report and literature review
Authors: Watanabe Chisato , Hayashi Shujiro , Mori Hitomi , Igawa Ken
Published: June 2023

There have been a few reported cases of erythema nodosum (EN) after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccination. A 48‐year‐old healthy woman was referred to our department with multiple erythematous nodules of varying sizes on her extremities 10 days after receiving the third COVID‐19 vaccine dose. The clinical and pathological findings of the patients were consistent with EN. We reviewed 18 EN cases post‐COVID‐19 vaccination. Considering the low number of reported EN cases, a causal link between EN and COVID‐19 vaccination is still under debate.
Aedes albopictus microbiome derives from environmental sources and partitions across distinct host tissues
Authors: Seabourn Priscilla S. , Weber Danya E. , Spafford Helen , Medeiros Matthew C. I.
Published: June 2023

The mosquito microbiome consists of a consortium of interacting microorganisms that reside on and within culicid hosts. Mosquitoes acquire most of their microbial diversity from the environment over their life cycle. Once present within the mosquito host, the microbes colonize distinct tissues, and these symbiotic relationships are maintained by immune‐related mechanisms, environmental filtering, and trait selection. The processes that govern how environmental microbes assemble across the tissues within mosquitoes remain poorly resolved. We use ecological network analyses to examine how environmental bacteria assemble to form bacteriomes among Aedes albopictus host tissues. Mosquitoes, water, soil, and plant nectar were collected from 20 sites in the Mānoa Valley, Oahu. DNA was extracted and associated bacteriomes were inventoried using Earth Microbiome Project protocols. We find that the bacteriomes of A. albopictus tissues were compositional taxonomic subsets of environmental bacteriomes and suggest that the environmental microbiome serves as a source pool that supports mosquito microbiome diversity. Within the mosquito, the microbiomes of the crop, midgut, Malpighian tubules, and ovaries differed in composition. This microbial diversity partitioned among host tissues formed two specialized modules: one in the crop and midgut, and another in the Malpighian tubules and ovaries. The specialized modules may form based on microbe niche preferences and/or selection of mosquito tissues for specific microbes that aid unique biological functions of the tissue types. A strong niche‐driven assembly of tissue‐specific microbiotas from the environmental species pool suggests that each tissue has specialized associations with microbes, which derive from host‐mediated microbe selection.
Note on a higher order pseudo‐parabolic equation with variable exponents
Authors: Liu Bingchen , Li Yang
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we study a higher order pseudo‐parabolic equation involving
‐Laplacian with the Navier boundary condition. We use the energy method, the Sobolev embedding inequalities and the Galerkin's approximation to show the classification of singular solutions, including the existence and nonexistence of global, blow‐up, and extinction solutions. Extinction rates and time of extinction solutions, blow‐up time of blow‐up solutions, and decay estimates of global solutions are discussed.