bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scaling of the Thermally Induced Sign Inversion of Longitudinal Spin Seebeck Effect in a Compensated Ferrimagnet: Role of Magnetic Anisotropy
Authors: Chanda Amit , Holzmann Christian , Schulz Noah , Seyd Johannes , Albrecht Manfred , Phan Manh‐Huong , Srikanth Hari
Published: November 2021

The authors report on a systematic investigation of the longitudinal spin Seebeck effect (LSSE) in a GGG(Gd3Ga5O12)/GdIG(Gd3Fe5O12)/Pt film series exhibiting an in‐plane magnetic easy axis with a compensation temperature (TComp) that decreases from 270 to 220 K when decreasing GdIG film thickness from 272 to 31 nm, respectively. For all the films, the LSSE signal flips its sign below TComp. The authors demonstrate a universal scaling behavior of the temperature dependence of LSSE signal for the GdIG films around their respective TComp. Additionally, the authors demonstrate LSSE in a 31 nm GdIG film grown on a lattice‐mismatched GSGG (Gd3Sc2Ga3O12) substrate that exhibits an out‐of‐plane magnetic easy axis at room temperature. However, this sample reveals a spin reorientation transition where the magnetic easy axis changes its orientation to in‐plane at low temperatures. A clear distinction is observed in the LSSE signal for the GSGG/GdIG(31 nm)/Pt heterostructure, relative to GGG/GdIG(31 nm)/Pt showing an in‐plane magnetic easy axis. The findings underscore a strong correlation between the LSSE signal and the orientation of magnetic easy axis in compensated ferrimagnets and opens the possibility to tune LSSE through effective anisotropy.
Programmable Building of Radially Gradient Nanofibrous Patches Enables Deployment, Bursting Bearing Capability, and Stem Cell Recruitment
Authors: Du Jingtao , Yao Yueming , Wang Maidi , Su Ruigong , Li Xiaoran , Yu Jianyong , Ding Bin
Published: November 2021

Fibrous patches capable of withstanding bursting force and recruiting endogenous stem cells are of great demand for wound treatment. A programmable strategy for development of radially gradient nanofibrous patches with rapid deployment property, robust bursting bearing capability, and excellent mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) recruitment capability, is demonstrated. Benefiting from the royal water lily‐like radially branched architecture, the gradient fibrous (GF) patches exhibit fast deployment in aqueous solution (2 s), high bursting strength of 4.6 N, as well as “center‐to‐periphery” gradient immobilization of stromal‐cell‐derived factor 1α (SDF1α). The SDF1α gradient patches direct MSC migration from the periphery to the center along the aligned nanofibers, resulting in a 4.2 times higher migrated cell number and 2.6 times greater maximum migration distance than random fibrous patches with homogenous SDF1α. The gelatin methacryloyl coated GF patches respond to matrix metalloproteinase‐9 for “on‐demand” release of anti‐inflammatory drug diclofenac sodium (DS). Furthermore, repair of the mouse full‐thickness skin incision validates that SDF1α/DS/GF patches are able to provide feasible microenvironment to attenuate inflammation and improve endogenous MSC recruitment, leading to accelerated wound healing. This work may open a new pathway for development of smart tough fibrous patches for stimulating endogenous repair mechanisms during tissue regeneration.
TiO2‐Au NPs Heterojunction Arrays for Sensitive and Specific Detection of Copper Ions
Authors: Jia Liangbin , Tang Yao , Li Ming , Zhu Meiyan , Dong Xiaotong , Zhao Minggang , Ma Ye
Published: November 2021

Developing simple and effective methods to detect heavy metals is a research focus in the field of environmental science and materials science. However, the interference in complex matrix is one of the main obstacles when applying those methods to in‐field detection. In this work, by anchoring Au nanoparticles (NPs) on TiO2 nanotube arrays (NTAs), a Schottky junction is successfully introduced into a Ti/TiO2/Au/chitosan heterostructure, which shows outstanding performance for sensing copper ions. The high specific surface area of TiO2 NTAs offer numerous binding sites of Au NPs and Cu2+, which increase the density of the nanoscale Schottky junctions and extend the effective detection range of the sensor. The excellent conductivity of Au NPs can reduce the impedance and improve the overall quality of the Schottky junction. Most importantly, two factors are designed to increase the specificity of the sensor: the energy barriers oriented from the Schottky junction and the Cu2+ absorbing layer composed by chitosan. The excellent sensing properties are further confirmed in real‐life samples, demonstrating its potential applications in complex scenarios.
Ultrasmall Copper–Gallic Acid Nanodots for Chemodynamic Therapy
Authors: Hao Ya‐Nan , Gao Yi‐Ru , Li You , Fei Teng , Shu Yang , Wan Jian‐Hua
Published: November 2021

An ultrasmall chemodynamic therapeutic (CDT) agent with favorable specificity to tumor microenvironment, i.e., high level of glutathione (GSH) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), is reported. The coordination polymer nanodot between divalent copper (Cu2+) and gallic acid (GA) is shortly named as Cu–GA. The ultrasmall size of Cu–GA (2.16 ± 0.3 nm) results in a large specific surface area, which is beneficial for improving its catalytic performance. After endocytosis into tumor cell interior, Cu–GA promotes GSH‐activated and H2O2‐reinforced CDT in situ, wherein divalent Cu(II) is reduced to monovalent Cu(I) by GSH and induced GSH depletion. Subsequently, the generated Cu(I) catalyzes local H2O2 to generate toxic hydroxyl radical (•OH) via Fenton‐like reaction, and •OH leads to tumor cell apoptosis. The higher levels of GSH and H2O2 in the tumor cell interior significantly improve the efficiency of CDT, and meanwhile protect the normal cells. In addition, the ultrasmall size of Cu–GA facilitates its fast clearance and eliminates long‐term body retention, with minimized systemic toxicity during the treatment in vivo. Therefore, as a novel copper‐based nanoformulation specifically responsive to the tumor microenvironment, Cu–GA provides promising potentials in CDT.
Engineering Chemisorption of Fe4 Single‐Molecule Magnets on Gold
Authors: Poggini Lorenzo , Tancini Erik , Danieli Chiara , Sorrentino Andrea Luigi , Serrano Giulia , Lunghi Alessandro , Malavolti Luigi , Cucinotta Giuseppe , Barra Anne‐Laure , Juhin Amélie , Arrio Marie‐Anne , Li Weibin , Otero Edwige , Ohresser Philippe , Joly Loïc , Kappler Jean Paul , Totti Federico , Sainctavit Philippe , Caneschi Andrea , Sessoli Roberta , Cornia Andrea , Mannini Matteo
Published: November 2021

Gaining control over the grafting geometry is critically important for any application of surface‐supported single‐molecule magnets (SMMs) in data storage, spintronics, and quantum information science. Here, tetrairon(III) SMMs with a propeller‐like structure are functionalized with thioacetyl‐terminated alkyl chains to promote chemisorption on gold surfaces from solution and to evaluate differences in adsorption geometry and magnetic properties as a function of chain length. The prepared monolayers are investigated using X‐ray absorption techniques with linearly and circularly polarized light to extract geometrical and magnetic information, respectively. All derivatives remain intact and form partially oriented monolayers on the gold surface. A ligand‐field analysis of the observed X‐ray natural linear dichroism shows that the threefold molecular axis is invariably biased toward the surface normal, in agreement with ab initio calculations. This preferential orientation is most pronounced in monolayers of the shortest‐chain derivative, which are further studied with an ultralow temperature X‐ray magnetic circular dichroism setup operating down to 350 mK. The isothermal field sweeps with the magnetic field at normal incidence show an open hysteresis loop below 1 K, while measurements at different incidence angles prove the magnetic anisotropy of the monolayers.
Bioinspired Gas‐Confined Hollow Microfiber with 2D Conducting Polymer/Graphene Skeleton for Ultrasensitive Liquid Environment Sensor
Authors: Zou Xuejing , Jiang Qianqian , Wang Xusheng , He Yonglin , Chai Yuqiao , Ma Hui , Ma Xinlei , Wang Yapei , Xue Mianqi
Published: November 2021

Due to the strong liquid intermolecular force, feasible sensing‐detection methods in liquid environments are absent. Inspired by fish swim bladder, herein, a hollow‐structured microfiber is designed to realize high‐performance sensing in liquid environments. It composes of 2D polypyrrole (2DPPy) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and its wall has a porous skeleton of 2DPPy/rGO/2DPPy (2DPrG2DP). The internal cavities of porous skeleton will be filled by the liquid, while leaving a bubble inside the hollow micropipe due to the liquid surface tension, thus forming a solid/liquid/gas triple‐phase interface. This hollow microfiber transforms the unmanageable liquid‐phase sensing into gas‐phase sensing. During this process, the good mechanical strength of 2DPPy enables the high sensing operability, and the reversible gas extrusion‐withdraw process enables the high sensitivity. The hollow 2DPrG2DP microfiber‐based sensor can be potentially used to machine trouble shooting, water level monitoring, ocean current monitoring, tsunami warning, body fluid and blood monitoring, and oil transportation monitoring.
Synthesis and Applications of Organic Selenols
Authors: Tanini Damiano , Capperucci Antonella
Published: November 2021

The synthesis and the study of organoselenium compounds have received much attention over the past decades. Selenium‐containing organic molecules are widely used in organic synthesis, materials science, and medicinal chemistry. Selenium – and more specifically the amino acid selenocysteine, bearing a selenol (SeH) moiety – is present in at least 25 human protein families, whose biological functions have not been completely identified. Amongst the variety of organoselenium compounds, selenols are a versatile class of molecules easily undergoing a broad array of useful transformations. Because of the unique properties of the SeH group, selenol chemistry has important applications in chemical sciences, spanning from organic synthesis to materials chemistry and biology. This review summarises currently available methodologies for the synthesis of selenols and highlights applications of selenols in chemical sciences and biology.

magnified image
Insight into the Fading Mechanism of the Solid‐Conversion Sulfur Cathodes and Designing Long Cycle Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Chen Xue , Ji Haijin , Rao Zhixiang , Yuan Lixia , Shen Yue , Xu Henghui , Li Zhen , Huang Yunhui
Published: November 2021

The cathode electrolyte interface (CEI) formed on the surface of the sulfur cathode plays a vital role in determining whether lithium–sulfur batteries can function through a solid‐phase conversion reaction, which can effectively hinder the dissolution of polysulfides. However, there is still a lack of systematical research on the evolution and failure mechanism of the CEI for Li–S batteries. Here, it is found that the integrity of the as‐formed CEI is strongly related to the content of sulfur and the amount of electrolyte. When the volume of reduction product (Li2S/Li2S2) exceeds the maximal volume of the carbon host, the as‐formed CEI is unable to withstand the volume variation upon repeated lithiation/delithiation. The repeated fracture and repair of CEI unceasingly consumes electrolyte and active materials. Thus, to achieve prolonged cycle stability via solid‐phase conversion, the content of sulfur and the interior space of the host should be well matched. Based on the above understanding, the designed sulfur‐graphite full cell shows an excellent cyclability over 2000 cycles. This work reveals the failure mechanism of solid‐phase conversion reactions in Li–S batteries, and provides some inspiration for designing long‐life and high‐sulfur‐content cathode materials.
A Review of Degradation Mechanisms and Recent Achievements for Ni‐Rich Cathode‐Based Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Jiang Ming , Danilov Dmitri L. , Eichel Rüdiger‐A. , Notten Peter H. L.
Published: November 2021

The growing demand for sustainable energy storage devices requires rechargeable lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) with higher specific capacity and stricter safety standards. Ni‐rich layered transition metal oxides outperform other cathode materials and have attracted much attention in both academia and industry. Lithium‐ion batteries composed of Ni‐rich layered cathodes and graphite anodes (or Li‐metal anodes) are suitable to meet the energy requirements of the next generation of rechargeable batteries. However, the instability of Ni‐rich cathodes poses serious challenges to large‐scale commercialization. This paper reviews various degradation processes occurring at the cathode, anode, and electrolyte in Ni‐rich cathode‐based LIBs. It highlights the recent achievements in developing new stabilization strategies for the various battery components in future Ni‐rich cathode‐based LIBs.
Regulating Energy Band Alignment via Alkaline Metal Fluoride Assisted Solution Post‐Treatment Enabling Sb2(S,Se)3 Solar Cells with 10.7% Efficiency
Authors: Zhao Yuqi , Wang Shaoying , Jiang Chenhui , Li Chuang , Xiao Peng , Tang Rongfeng , Gong Junbo , Chen Guilin , Chen Tao , Li Jianmin , Xiao Xudong
Published: November 2021

Continuously boosting the power conversion efficiency (PCE) and delving deeper into its functionalities are essential problems faced by the very new antimony selenosulfide (Sb2(S,Se)3) solar technology. Here, a convenient and effective solution post‐treatment (SPT) technique is used to fabricate high‐performance Sb2(S,Se)3 solar cells, where alkali metal fluorides are applied to improve the quality of Sb2(S,Se)3 films in terms of morphology, crystallinity, and conductivity. In particular, this approach is able to manipulate the S/Se gradient in the films and creates favorable energy alignment which facilitates the carrier transport. As a result, the fill factor and short‐circuit current density of Sb2(S,Se)3 solar cells (Glass/FTO/Zn(O,S)/CdS/Sb2(S,Se)3/Spiro‐OMeTAD/Au) based on the SPT strategy are significantly enhanced, achieving a champion efficiency of 10.7%. To date, this conversion efficiency value represents the highest efficiency of all Sb‐based solar cells. This study provides an effective post‐treatment strategy for improving the quality of Sb2(S,Se)3 film which sheds new light on the fabrication of high‐efficiency Sb2(S,Se)3 solar cells.
Particle‐level dynamics of clusters: Experiments in a gas‐fluidized bed
Authors: Wang Haifeng , Chen Yanpei , Wang Wei
Published: November 2021

Clustering is critical to understanding the multiscale behavior of fluidization. However, its time‐resolved evolution at the particle level is seldom touched. Here, we explore both the time‐averaged and time‐resolved dynamics of clusters in a quasi‐2D fluidized bed. Particle tracking velocimetry is adopted, and then clusters are identified by using Voronoi analysis. The time‐averaged results show that the number distribution of the cluster size follows a power law () except for large clusters (nc > 100). Time‐resolved analysis demonstrates that the cluster coalescence can be simplified as a collision between two inelastic clusters, during which the mean speed, kinetic energy, and total Voronoi cell area of particles decrease until the formation of the big cluster. Then, a model is proposed to predict its energy loss, which gives ΔE ~ t3/2. Moreover, the breakup of the cluster is linked to increasing dimensionless torque on the particles.
Explaining robot policies
Authors: Watkins Olivia , Huang Sandy , Frost Julius , Bhatia Kush , Weiner Eric , Abbeel Pieter , Darrell Trevor , Plummer Bryan , Saenko Kate , Dragan Anca
Published: November 2021

In order to interact with a robot or make wise decisions about where and how to deploy it in the real world, humans need to have an accurate mental model of how the robot acts in different situations. We propose to improve users' mental model of a robot by showing them examples of how the robot behaves in informative scenarios. We explore this in two settings. First, we show that when there are many possible environment states, users can more quickly understand the robot's policy if they are shown critical states where taking a particular action is important. Second, we show that when there is a distribution shift between training and test environment distributions, then it is more effective to show exploratory states that the robot does not visit naturally.
Methods and standards for research on explainable artificial intelligence: Lessons from intelligent tutoring systems
Authors: Clancey William J. , Hoffman Robert R.
Published: November 2021

The DARPA Explainable Artificial Intelligence (AI) (XAI) Program focused on generating explanations for AI programs that use machine learning techniques. This article highlights progress during the DARPA Program (2017‐2021) relative to research since the 1970s in the field of intelligent tutoring systems (ITSs). ITS researchers learned a great deal about explanation that is directly relevant to XAI. We suggest opportunities for future XAI research deriving from ITS methods, and consider the challenges shared by both ITS and XAI in using AI to assist people in solving difficult problems effectively and efficiently.
PHIP gene variants with protein modeling, interactions, and clinical phenotypes
Authors: Dietrich Jordan , Lovell Scott , Veatch Olivia J. , Butler Merlin G.
Published: November 2021

Variants in the pleckstrin homology domain‐interacting protein (PHIP) gene are implicated in the clinical phenotype of Chung–Jansen syndrome, which includes dysmorphic features, cognitive dysfunction, aberrant behavior, and childhood onset obesity. Following a systematic literature review, 35 patients are reported to have unique PHIP variants impacting the encoded protein product. We summarize the status and frequency of these variants and relationship to clinical presentation. We also describe an additional patient with a rare, pathogenic variant due to a five base pair deletion leading to an altered codon at I307 but with a stop codon at 22 codons downstream; notably, a variant was identified at the same location as seen previously at protein position I307 in one other subject and a frameshift change at that protein position. We compare the clinical characteristics between the two patients and analyze whether certain types of gene defects impact clinical presentation in previously reported individuals. In addition, we predict structural protein models, which yielded unique differences between the wild‐type and I307P‐related mutant truncated proteins. Protein–protein interactions indicate involvement of POMC and related proteins with potential contribution to obesity, congenital, neuromuscular, and lipid disorders with heart, gastrointestinal, and rheumatoid diseases. With its surrounding proline‐rich region, the I307P point mutation increases susceptibility to conformational rigidity and thermodynamic stability, ultimately impacting function as well as a stop codon downstream. Furthermore, the frameshift mutation seen in our patient may result in a truncated protein with a short abnormal region prior to the stop codon due to a five base pair deletion at I307 or target the protein for nonsense‐mediated mRNA decay.
Obstetrics and gynecology in Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome: A brief review and update
Authors: Blagowidow Natalie
Published: November 2021

The Ehlers‐Danlos syndromes (EDSs) are a group of hereditary disorders affecting collagen and connective tissue. Gynecologic and obstetric complications occur with increased frequency and severity due to these abnormalities. Recent studies suggest that some complications, including endometriosis and premature rupture of the membranes may occur less often than previously thought. In addition, having a known diagnosis allows anticipatory planning, resulting in lower morbidity from hemorrhage and tissue injury. With continued progress in understanding the underlying mechanisms of EDS, more effective treatments can be developed.
Innovative application of internal carotid artery embolization in salvage endoscopic nasopharyngectomy for recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A case‐matched comparison
Authors: Li Wanpeng , Liu Qiang , Wang Huan , Zhang Huangkang , Liu Quan , Hu Li , Li Houyong , Dai Jiong , Sun Xicai , Yu Hongmeng , Wang Dehui
Published: November 2021

Background

The efficacy and safety of internal carotid artery (ICA) embolization as a treatment strategy in recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (rNPC) patients with tumors invading the ICA remain unclear.

Methods

We enrolled all rNPC patients with tumors invading the ICA, who underwent salvage endoscopic surgery. Using propensity scores to adjust for specific potential prognostic factors, a well‐balanced cohort of 42 patients with limited rNPC was formed by matching each patient who underwent ICA embolization (study group) with one who did not (control group). The survival rates and common treatment‐related complications were compared between the 2 groups.

Results

The cohort included patients with the following tumor stages: rT2 (n = 3), rT3 (n = 24), and rT4 (n = 15). During a median follow‐up of 15 (range, 2‐63) months, the 2‐year overall survival and progression‐free survival rates were significantly higher in the ICA embolization group than in the ICA nonembolization group (90.5% vs 53.3% and 71.3% vs 33.0%, respectively; and p = 0.022 and p = 0.006, respectively). In addition, the incidence of treatment‐related complications, such as nasal obstruction, nasopharyngeal hemorrhage, and nasopharyngeal necrosis, was significantly lower in the ICA embolization group than in the nonembolization group (p = 0.001, p = 0.014, and p = 0.038, respectively).

Conclusion

The innovative application of ICA embolization in endoscopic surgery in patients with rNPC invading the ICA significantly improved patient survival and reduced the risk of treatment‐related complications. Therefore, this may be a safe and effective method with the potential to improve outcomes in rNPC patients.
Single‐Cell Visualization of Monogenic RNA G‐quadruplex and Occupied G‐quadruplex Ratio through a Module‐Assembled Multifunctional Probes Assay (MAMPA)
Authors: Dai Yicong , Teng Xucong , Li Jinghong
Published: November 2021

G‐quadruplexes (G4s), non‐canonical nucleic acid secondary structure, regulate many biological functions and are considered potential molecular targets for cancer therapeutics. However, due to the lack of analytical methods, the regulating mechanism of monogenic G4s is still unclear. Here, we developed a Module Assembled Multifunctional Probes Assay (MAMPA) for visualizing endogenous G4s in individual genes in single cells. Two modular probes separately recognize G4 structures and the adjacent RNA sequences, and the module assembly enables imaging of G4s in an individual RNA with high specificity. Through imaging G4s in several individual genes, we found that G4s were steadily occupied by G4 Binding Proteins (G4BPs) in various mRNAs in every cell line and defined “Occupied G4 Ratio”. We demonstrated MAMPA was suitable for most experimental situations and found that Occupied G4 Ratios had the potential to become a new parameter for the study of G4s in living cells.
Thyroid storm presenting with coma
Authors: McLean J. R. L. , Allan K.
Published: November 2021

Thyroid storm is a rare manifestation of severe thyrotoxicosis, and presentation with coma is highly atypical. A 32‐year‐old woman, previously euthyroid, presented in a comatose state with tachycardia, hypertension and pyrexia. The patient’s trachea was intubated in the community and she was subsequently admitted to the intensive care unit with a working diagnosis of meningoencephalitis. Although hypertension was present initially, subsequent hypotension necessitated a noradrenaline infusion. The patient remained persistently tachycardic and pyrexial. Initial laboratory investigations, including examination of cerebrospinal fluid, did not identify a specific diagnosis. Subsequently, raised thyroxine and triiodothyronine levels alongside undetectable thyroid‐stimulating hormone confirmed the diagnosis of thyroid storm. Following treatment for thyrotoxicosis, the patient made a full recovery and was discharged from the intensive care unit after three days. This case highlights the importance of considering thyroid disease in critically ill patients presenting with non‐specific symptoms.
Polyurethane electrospun membranes with hydroxyapatite‐vancomycin for potential application in bone tissue engineering and drug delivery
Authors: Vásquez‐López Claudia , Castillo‐Ortega Maria Monica , Chan‐Chan Lerma Hanaiy , Lagarda‐Díaz Irlanda , Giraldo‐Betancur Astrid Lorena , Rodríguez‐Félix Dora Evelia , Encinas‐Encinas Jose Carmelo , Martínez‐Barbosa Maria Elisa , Cadenas‐Pliego Gregorio , Cauich‐Rodríguez Juan Valerio , Herrera‐Franco Pedro Jesus
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the drug delivery behavior and other properties of electrospun composite membranes for potential use in tissue engineering. Tecoflex® (PU1), and a lab‐made polyurethane (PU2) were studied. They were mixed with nano‐hydroxyapatite (PU1‐nHA and PU2‐nHA) and vancomycin (PU1‐VA and PU2‐VA) or mixed with both, nHA and VA (PU1‐nHA‐VA and PU2‐nHA‐VA). Scanning electron microscopy showed a porous structure in all the electrospun membranes with smooth fibers in PU1 and its composites with sizes in the range of 0.6–0.9 μm and nanoparticles of HA, both, adhered and embedded on the PU fibers were observed. nHA and VA affected the thermal and mechanical behavior of composites. Elastic modulus, cytotoxicity, and kinetic release were affected by the PU and nHA. Cell viability up to 75% showed that all membrane extracts are not cytotoxic while microbial inhibition activity was observed in PU1‐VA, PU1‐nHA‐VA, and PU2‐VA.
Lead borate@polydopamine core–shell particles chemically bonded with silicone rubber for neutron and γ‐rays shielding
Authors: Liu Xue , Zhang Quan‐Ping , Li Jia‐Le , Chen Rui‐Chao , Xu Wei‐Di , Li Yin‐Tao , Yang Wen‐Bin , Zhou Yuan‐Lin
Published: November 2021

Rubber composites with excellent radiation shielding and flexibility are extremely important to personal protective equipments (PPEs) for protecting workers from radiation hazards, especially for mixed radiations. It is, however, challenging to achieve uniform dispersion of fillers and good compatibility of the interfaces in highly‐filled rubber composites that are closely related to their physical properties. In this article, lead borate@polydopamine (PBO@PDA) core–shell particles are chemically bonded with silicone rubber (SR) for co‐shielding of neutron and γ‐rays. Uniform dispersion of the core–shell particles and good compatibility of the interfaces give rise to enhanced flexibility of the rubber composites. Particularly, the SR composite with 40 wt% PBO particles displays increases of 106% in elongation at break and 490% in tensile strength to neat SR. Furthermore, the mass attenuation coefficient of γ‐rays (105 KeV) reaches 2.35 and the thermal neutron absorption rate (0.025 eV) of is 76.9%. This work takes into account the balance between radiation shielding and flexibility of rubber composites, which provides a facile strategy to fabricate excellent integrated properties of flexible materials for shielding mixed neutron and γ‐rays.
Effect of ultraviolet radiation and water spraying on the mechanical properties of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes reinforced natural fiber and hybrid composites
Authors: Neto Jorge S. S. , F. M. de Queiroz Henrique , K. K. Cavalcanti Daniel , A. A. Aguiar Ricardo , B. Pereira António , Banea Mariana Doina
Published: November 2021

The main objective of this study was to investigate the effect of aging by ultraviolet radiation and water spray on the mechanical properties of natural fiber and hybrid composites. Pure jute, hybrid jute/glass, and glass fiber‐reinforced composites were fabricated. All these types of composites were further modified with 0.6 wt% of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and their mechanical behavior was compared to the unmodified specimens. Tensile and flexural tests were used to measure the mechanical properties of unaged (control) and aged specimens. A scanning electron microscopy analysis was used to examine the fracture surfaces of the specimens tested. It was found that the aging process affected the mechanical properties of the composites studied in different ways. For jute and jute + MWCNT composites the properties decreased with increased exposure time. The hybrid jute/glass composites (unmodified and MWCNT modified) were less affected by aging and showed an insignificant change in tensile strength. The hybrid + MWCNT composites, showed an increase of approx. 7% in Young's modulus (1000 h) and 9% (500 h) and 17%, (1000 h) in flexural modulus when compared to the unexposed specimens. The MWCNTs had a positive effect on the mechanical properties of the glass + MWCNT aged samples.
High leverage detection in general functional regression models with spatially correlated errors
Authors: Romano Elvira , Giraldo Ramón , Mateu Jorge , Diana Andrea
Published: November 2021

The presence of curves that deviate markedly from the core of a set of curves can greatly affect inference and forecasting in a functional regression model. Thus their detection is key to increase the accuracy of the required estimates. This work introduces the concepts of high leverage in general functional regression models with independent and spatially correlated errors. The projection matrix, also known as Hat matrix, plays a crucial role in classical model diagnosis, since it provides a measure of leverage. We propose a generalisation of the projection matrix in both the functional and the spatial functional frameworks under two settings, when the response variable is a scalar, and when it is a function itself, the so‐called total model. Commonly used influence measures are also proposed as functions of the generalised functional leverages and residuals. An application of the proposed procedures for investigating the effect of outliers on the relationship between transformation of the banking industry and the size of cooperative banks in Italy over a period of 14 years is presented.
Longer preserved urethral length in robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy significantly contributes to post‐operative urinary continence recovery
Authors: Ando Satoshi , Kamei Jun , Yamazaki Masahiro , Sugihara Toru , Kameda Tomohiro , Fujisaki Akira , Kurokawa Shinsuke , Takayama Tatsuya , Fujimura Tetsuya
Published: November 2021

Objectives

To assess the relationship between the surgical procedure of robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and urinary continence recovery by reviewing the video database.

Methods

Video and data about men diagnosed with prostate cancer and underwent RARP were extracted and reviewed. Preserved urethral length (PUL) was semi‐quantitatively measured using the lateral width of a 16‐Fr urethral balloon catheter while cutting the urethra on a video screen. In addition, by reviewing intraoperative RARP video database, other surgical skill outcomes were also collected. Kaplan–Meier analysis with log‐rank test was used to compare the urinary continence recovery rate, stratified by the PUL. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using the Cox proportional hazards model, and p‐values of <0.05 were considered significant.

Results

The number of patients included in this study was 213. In univariate analysis, a PUL of ≥16 mm, a body mass index of <23.1 kg/m2 and a resected prostate volume of <44.3 g were statistically significant factors that influenced urinary continence recovery [hazard ratio (HR) 1.58, p = 0.036; HR 0.67, p = 0.021; and HR 0.58, p = 0.005, respectively]. Those factors also remained statistically significant in the multivariate analysis (HR 1.87, p = 0.022; HR 0.54, p = 0.001; and HR 0.57, p = 0.005, respectively). One year post‐operatively, the recovery rate from urinary continence was 79.0% for patients with a PUL of ≥16 mm and 66.5% for patients with a PUL of <16 mm.

Conclusion

These results suggest that patients with longer PUL in RARP have a significantly higher rate of post‐operative urinary continence recovery.
Parietal bone agenesis and athelia in retinoic acid embryopathy: An expansion of the phenotype
Authors: Yang Xiao‐Ru , Wright James R. , Yu Weiming , Langdon Kristopher D. , Somerset David , Thomas Mary Ann
Published: November 2021

Background

Retinoic acid signaling plays a critical role during embryogenesis and requires tight regulation. Exposure to exogenous retinoic acid during fetal development is known to have teratogenic effects, producing a recognizable embryopathy.

Case

We describe a case of retinoic acid embryopathy secondary to maternal isotretinoin use until the ninth week of gestation and expand the phenotype to include the rare features of parietal bone agenesis and athelia. Histology of the parietal region showed fibrous tissue with no intramembranous ossification. The fetus also had multiple craniofacial dysmorphisms, thymic agenesis, and transposition of the great arteries with double outlet right ventricle and subaortic perimembranous ventricular septal defect. Neuropathology revealed enlarged ventricles with agenesis of the cerebellar vermis, focal duplication of the central canal and scattered parenchymal ependymal rests, and possible cerebral heterotopias with associated abnormal neuronal lamination. A chromosomal microarray was normal.

Conclusion

Parietal bone agenesis and athelia are both rare congenital anomalies not previously reported in retinoic acid embryopathy. However, retinoic acid or its degrading enzyme has been demonstrated to exert effects in both of these developmental pathways, offering biological plausibility. We propose that this case may represent an expansion of the phenotype of retinoic embryopathy.
Accuracy and acceptability of eHealth data collection for an early intensive behavioral intervention program
Authors: Pankewich Amy , Martin Toby L. , Walters Kerri L. , Dubé Charmayne
Published: November 2021

Early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI) is a treatment designed to increase adaptive behavior and decrease maladaptive behaviors for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). EIBI service providers typically collect data using pen‐and‐paper. Participants were four service providers employed at a large community‐based EIBI program. Differences in accuracy between collecting discrete‐trial‐teaching (DTT) data and challenging behavior data using pen‐and‐paper and an eHealth electronic data collection (EDC) application were assessed. The social validity of both methods of data collection was also examined. Pen‐and‐paper and EDC were equally accurate, but participants preferred using pen‐and‐paper. Our accuracy findings agreed with previous comparisons of EDC and pen‐and‐paper. Both methods of data collection are viable for an EIBI program; however, social validity considerations will determine the ease of EIBI programs transitioning to using an eHealth tool for data collection.
Examining the interaction of sustainable innovation activity and the life cycle of small high‐tech enterprises
Authors: Vaisman Elena D. , Podshivalova Maria V. , Alola Andrew Adewale
Published: November 2021

The direction of this study was engineered by the need to increase the innovation activity of high‐tech enterprises (primarily small enterprise) and to test the hypothesis that the innovation activity of such enterprises depends on the stage of their life cycle. At the first stage, we formulated the assumptions and prerequisites for the formation of a sample for the study: 106 small enterprises of the electric power industry of the Chelyabinsk region of Russia Federation. At the second stage, we developed a method to determine an enterprise's life cycle stage, taking into account the specifics of small industrial enterprises. Our method involves the sequential implementation of two steps. In the first, we use the traditional indicator of age of the enterprise, and in the second, we assess the degree of stability of key financial indicators of enterprise activities. At the third stage, based on the proposed method, the sample was divided into three groups: growing, mature, and long‐lived enterprises, for each of which an assessment of innovation activity was carried out. As a result, we determined that small Russian enterprises in the high‐tech industry demonstrate an increase in innovation activity at the stage of maturity, as a rule. However, even at this stage, only one in three enterprises shows such activity. This can be explained by the low demand for small businesses in the Russian national innovation system, as well as the lack of highly qualified personnel and the prevailing stereotypes of attitudes toward small businesses. As captured in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), the proposed approach can be applied in the development of regional support programs and strategies for the development of small high‐tech enterprises.
Stimuli‐Responsive Natural Proteins and Their Applications
Authors: Du Na , Ye Fangfu , Sun Jing , Liu Kai
Published: November 2021

Natural proteins are essential biomacromolecules that fulfill versatile functions in the living organism, such as their usage as cytoskeleton, nutriment transporter, homeostasis controller, catalyzer, or immune guarder. Due to the excellent mechanical properties and good biocompatibility/biodegradability, natural protein‐based biomaterials are well equipped for prospective applications in various fields. Among these natural proteins, stimuli‐responsive proteins can be reversibly and precisely manipulated on demand, rendering the protein‐based biomaterials promising candidates for numerous applications, including disease detection, drug delivery, bio‐sensing, and regenerative medicine. Therefore, we present some typical natural proteins with diverse physical stimuli‐responsive properties, including temperature, light, force, electrical, and magnetic sensing in this review. The structure‐function mechanism of these proteins is discussed in detail. Finally, we give a summary and perspective for the development of stimuli‐responsive proteins.
Atrial fibrillation after closure of patent foramen ovale in the REDUCE clinical study
Authors: Andersen Asger , Matzen Kristina Laut , Andersen Grethe , Settergren Magnus , Sjostrand Christina , Iversen Helle K. , Roine Risto O. , Hildick‐Smith David , Spence J. David , Rhodes John F. , Kasner Scott E. , Sondergaard Lars , Nielsen‐Kudsk Jens Erik
Published: November 2021

Objectives

To describe the occurrence of postprocedural atrial fibrillation (AF) among patients with cryptogenic stroke undergoing patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure in the REDUCE clinical study and analyze for potential risk factors for the development of postprocedural AF.

Background

AF is an adverse event that might potentially counterbalance the stroke prevention benefit from PFO closure. Data on AF after transcatheter PFO closure are sparse.

Methods

We evaluated data from patients having PFO closure (Gore HELEX or Gore Cardioform Septal Occluder) in the REDUCE clinical trial (n = 408) in at post hoc explorative analysis. Median follow‐up was 5.0 years.

Results

AF occurred in 30 patients (7.4%) after PFO closure with a total of 34 AF events. Most were reported as non‐serious (68%), detected within 45 days post‐procedure (79%), and resolved within 2 weeks of onset (63%). One subject with AF had recurrent stroke. Postprocedural AF occurred more frequently among subjects with higher age and large device sizes. Male sex was the only independent predictor of postprocedural AF. We found no association between the type of occluder (HELEX or Gore Cardioform Septal Occluder) or PFO anatomical characteristics and post‐procedural AF.

Conclusion

In the REDUCE clinical study, postprocedural atrial fibrillation was mostly early onset, transient and with no later recurrence. Postprocedural AF occurred more frequently among patients with higher age and larger devices. Male sex was the only independent predictor of postprocedural AF.
Origin of the different reactivity of the high‐valent coinage‐metal complexes [RCuiiiMe3]− and [RAgiiiMe3]− (R=allyl)**
Authors: Auth Thomas , Stein Christopher J. , O'Hair Richard A. J. , Koszinowski Konrad
Published: November 2021

High‐valent tetraalkylcuprates(iii) and ‐argentates(iii) are key intermediates of copper‐ and silver‐mediated C−C coupling reactions. Here, we investigate the previously reported contrasting reactivity of [RMiiiMe3]− complexes (M=Cu, Ag and R=allyl) with energy‐dependent collision‐induced dissociation experiments, advanced quantum‐chemical calculations and kinetic computations. The gas‐phase fragmentation experiments confirmed the preferred formation of the [RCuMe]− anion upon collisional activation of the cuprate(iii) species, consistent with a homo‐coupling reaction, whereas the silver analogue primarily yielded [AgMe2]−, consistent with a cross‐coupling reaction. For both complexes, density functional theory calculations identified one mechanism for homo coupling and four different ones for cross coupling. Of these pathways, an unprecedented concerted outer‐sphere cross coupling is of particular interest, because it can explain the formation of [AgMe2]− from the argentate(iii) species. Remarkably, the different C−C coupling propensities of the two [RMiiiMe3]− complexes become only apparent when properly accounting for the multi‐configurational character of the wave function for the key transition state of [RAgMe3]−. Backed by the obtained detailed mechanistic insight for the gas‐phase reactions, we propose that the previously observed cross‐coupling reaction of the silver complex in solution proceeds via the outer‐sphere mechanism.
Anti‐Lung Cancer Activities of 1,2,3‐Triazole Curcumin Derivatives via Regulation of the MAPK/NF‐κB/STAT3 Signaling Pathways
Authors: Zhi Tai Xin , Liu Kai Qiang , Cai Kun Yi , Zhao Yu Chao , Li Zhen Wang , Wang Xin , He Xin Hua , Sun Xian Yu
Published: November 2021

In this study, a series of curcumin derivatives containing 1,2,3‐triazole were designed and synthesized, and their inhibitory activities against the proliferation of lung cancer cells were studied. Compound 5 k (3,4‐dichlorobenzyltriazole methyl curcumin) had the best activity against A549 cells, with a half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 2.27 μM, which was approximately 10 times higher than that of the lead curcumin and higher than that of gefitinib (IC50=8.64 μM). Western blotting revealed that 5 k increased the phosphorylation levels of p38, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK), and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK). Compound 5 k also promoted the expression of the inhibitor of nuclear factor‐κB (IκBα) and decreased that of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), and β‐catenin. Therefore, 5 k suppresses A549 cell proliferation by activating the mitogen‐activated protein kinases and suppressing NF‐κB/STAT3 signaling pathways. So, 5 k can potentially be used for treating non‐small cell lung cancer.
Soldier neural architecture is temporarily modality specialized but poorly predicted by repertoire size in the stingless bee Tetragonisca angustula
Authors: Baudier Kaitlin M. , Bennett Meghan M. , Barrett Meghan , Cossio Frank J. , Wu Robert D. , O'Donnell Sean , Pavlic Theodore P. , Fewell Jennifer H.
Published: November 2021

Individual heterogeneity within societies provides opportunities to test hypotheses about adaptive neural investment in the context of group cooperation. Here, we explore neural investment in defense specialist soldiers of the eusocial stingless bee (Tetragonisca angustula) which are age subspecialized on distinct defense tasks and have an overall higher lifetime task repertoire than other sterile workers within the colony. Consistent with predicted behavioral demands, soldiers had higher relative visual (optic lobe) investment than nonsoldiers but only during the period when they were performing the most visually demanding defense task (hovering guarding). As soldiers aged into the less visually demanding task of standing guarding this difference disappeared. Neural investment was otherwise similar across all colony members. Despite having larger task repertoires, soldiers had similar absolute brain size and the smaller relative brain size compared to other workers, meaning that lifetime task repertoire size was a poor predictor of brain size. Both high behavioral specialization in stable environmental conditions and reassignment across task groups during a crisis occur in T. angustula. The differences in neurobiology we report here are consistent with these specialized but flexible defense strategies. This work broadens our understanding of how neurobiology mediates age and morphological task specialization in highly cooperative societies.
Ultrastructural analysis of the morphological phenotypes of microglia associated with neuroinflammatory cues
Authors: Dyne Eric , Cawood Meghan , Suzelis Matthew , Russell Reagan , Kim Min‐Ho
Published: November 2021

Microglia are the primary resident immune cells of the central nervous system that are responsible for the maintenance of brain homeostasis. There is a plethora of evidence to suggest that microglia display distinct phenotypes that are associated with the alteration of cell morphology under varying environmental cues. However, it has not been fully explored how the varying states of microglial activation are linked to the alteration of microglia morphology, especially in the microdomain. The objective of this study was to quantitatively characterize the ultrastructural morphology of human microglia under neuroinflammatory cues. To address this, a human cell line of microglia was stimulated by antiinflammatory (IL‐4), proinflammatory (TNF‐α), and Alzheimer's disease (AD)‐associated cues (Aβ, Aβ + TNF‐α). The resulting effects on microglia morphology associated with changes in microdomain were analyzed using a high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy. Our findings demonstrated that microglial activation under proinflammatory and AD‐cues were closely linked to changes not only in cell shape but also in cell surface topography and higher‐order branching of processes. Furthermore, our results revealed that microglia under proinflammatory cues exhibited unique morphological features involving cell‐to‐cell contact and the formation of vesicle‐like structures. Our study provides insight into the fine details of microglia morphology associated with varying status of microglial activation.
Reversible Photochromic Properties of Ti2O3(H2O)2(C2O4) ⋅ H2O Material
Authors: Hu Kangkai , E Lei , Zhao Dan , Guo Zhengang , Zhang Bo
Published: November 2021

Potassium titanyl oxalate is used as the titanium source and HCl as growth promoter. Ti2O3(H2O)2(C2O4) ⋅ H2O, with hexagonal prism and spherical polyhedral morphology, has been synthesized by one‐step hydrothermal method at 120 °C for 6∼12 h, and the particle size range is 8–12 μm. Ti2O3(H2O)2(C2O4) ⋅ H2O prepared in this research has excellent reversible photochromic properties. It is a kind of P‐type photochromic compound, which is achromatic or colorless. The equilibrium time of discoloration or fading is 30 min. The photochromic mechanism research shows that the photochromic properties of Ti2O3(H2O)2(C2O4) ⋅ H2O are caused by the continuous reaction of Ti4+, Ti3+ with ecb−, VO++ in unsaturated cationic compounds.