bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Military Aircraft Flight Control
Authors: Nae Cătălin , Nicolin Ilie , Adrian Nicolin Bogdan
Published: June 2022

This chapter presents major stages in the evolution of military aircraft flight control systems. As the flight speed steadily increased, it was necessary to develop new flight control systems to replace the old pilot control with mechanical connections to the control surfaces. The first major step is the pilot with a side stick/rudder pedal or an autopilot, who sends commands converted to electrical signals to a flight control computer and, in turn, interprets and sends wired electrical commands to the electrohydraulic actuators of each control surface and receives electrical signals from the motion transducer of each control surface. This stage of development of aeronautical technologies has been called the fly-by-wire flight control system. The latest major step in the evolution of military aircraft flight control systems is the replacement of copper wires with the fiber-optic cables, which have a much lower weight and a much higher capacity to carry digital information (light or photons). The command imposed by the pilot with a side stick/rudder pedal or autopilot is converted into light signals to the flight control computer and to the electrical or electrohydraulic actuators of each control surface and receives light signals from the motion transducer of each control surface. The latest flight control system is called fly-by-light system.
Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Atrial Fibrillation: An Advanced Hemodynamic Perspective
Authors: Ghuman Mankarman , Kim Hansuk , Sheitt Hana , Garcia Julio
Published: June 2022

Atrial fibrillation (AF) patients can be referred to cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for an accurate assessment of cardiac function and left atrial structure. Cardiac MRI is the gold standard for the quantification of heart volumes and allows the noninvasive tissue characterization of the heart. In addition, advanced flow assessment can be achieved using 4D-flow MRI to elegantly depict the hemodynamic efficiency of the left atrium (LA) and left ventricle (LV) throughout the cardiac cycle. Patients with AF may have occult LV disease and thrombus formation. Biomarkers based on 4D-flow MRI may unmask the presence of LA/LV disease by quantifying 3D stasis, flow distribution, and vortex formation. These biomarkers have proved to characterize AF stages, to complement standard risk scores, and bring new insights on heart hemodynamic performance. This chapter aims to present a standard cardiac MRI protocol for atrial fibrillation and the innovative usefulness of advanced flow imaging in clinical settings.
Theoretical Approaches to Water Use Optimization for Rice Irrigation Systems in the Lower Kuban
Authors: Buber Alina , Dobrachev Yuri , Buber Alexander , Ratkovich Evgenii
Published: June 2022

The object of research is irrigation systems that are hydraulically connected to a large specialized agricultural complex for rice production, located in the lower part of the Kuban River basin and experiencing an acute shortage of water resources. In the last decade, rice irrigation area decreased by 50%. Calculation technology is proposed for water resources management of the Lower Kuban basin basing on integrated use of six models developed in Russia: hydrological and meteorological forecasts; simulation models of yield formation to calculate crops water demand; water balance models to develop water use schedules for irrigation systems; hydrodynamic models to calculate water use scenarios; optimization models to choose a trade-off Pareto management options; and statistical models to calculate yield losses depending on water resources deficit. This technology allows adopting optimal trade-off solutions online with the Lower Kuban water resources management in interests of agriculture.
Pyridine Nucleus as a Directing Group for Metal-Based C–H Bond Activation
Authors: Purohit Priyank , Joshi Gaurav , Aggarwal Meenu
Published: June 2022

Carbon-hydrogen (C–H) bond activation involves a methodology for the construction of carbon-X (C–X) bonds where X can be carbon (C), oxygen (O), or the nitrogen (N), allowing the formation of C–C, C–O, or C–N bonds. Among them, the construction of the C–C bond within the aromatic moiety has remained a bottleneck because the abundance of C–H bonds in aromatic molecules possesses almost similar bond dissociation energies comparable to the C–C bond allowing leading to the poor reactivity and selectivity. Secondly, C–H bonds possess low polarity and thus confer them inertness. Considering this, directing group strategy came into existence, where the coordination ability of the heteroatoms such as O and N atoms within the ring was utilized for the direction of the reaction. The use of the heteroatom for the regioselective C–H bond activation is quite advantageous that could be explored immensely for their functionalization. In this chapter, we have congregated the information and put forth the evidence of C–H activation leading to the C–C bond formation in pyridine and pyridine-containing entities.
Role of CD14+ CD16+ Monocytes in the Pathogenesis of Periodontitis Associated Systemic Diseases
Authors: Jagannathan Raghunathan , Thodur Madapusi Balaji , Jalliah Venkatakrishnan Cakku , Sridhar Lakshmipriya , Varadarajan Saranya , Rajendran Swaminathan
Published: June 2022

Monocytes are immune cells that form an important bridge between the innate and adaptive immune response. These cells exist in various phenotypes based on cell surface marker expression and participate in the pathobiology of many systemic diseases. Periodontitis is an inflammatory condition of the tooth attachment apparatus caused by microbial assault from the dental plaque biofilm. It is noteworthy that monocytes play a key role in mediating tissue destruction in periodontitis. The CD14+ CD16+ monocytes that bear both the surface markers are especially involved and upregulated in periodontitis and produce increased amounts of proinflammatory cytokines following microbial challenge. In this context and exploring the available literature, the present chapter aims to unravel the role of CD14+ CD16+ monocytes in periodontitis and systemic disease and also aims to elucidate the possible pathways by which periodontitis could be a key risk factor for systemic disease based on monocyte selection and participation.
Multiple and Single Reaction Monitoring Mass Spectrometry for Absolute Quantitation of Proteins
Authors: Yu Joshua , Veenstra Timothy
Published: June 2022

The use of mass spectrometry (MS) to measure proteins has grown exponentially over the past 25 years. This growth has been primarily driven by the advent of proteomics in which scientists have developed methods to identify and quantitate as many proteins in a complex mixture as possible. Early studies trended towards the development of techniques that enabled greater quantitative coverage of the proteome. Many of these developments focused on relative quantitation in which the change in the abundances of proteins in comparative samples was measured. However, relative quantitation only allows a limited number of samples to be compared. This deficiency led to the development of technologies that allowed the relative quantitation of an unlimited number of samples to be measured, but what was still lacking was an emphasis on the ability of MS to measure the absolute abundance of proteins. A more recent technology trend has taken full advantage of the analytical attributes afforded in the use of MS for protein measurements. This trend utilizes the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and multiplexed capabilities of MS to quantity specific proteins within complex mixtures. Combined with the use of stable isotope-labeled internal standards, MS assays are now being developed to quantitate key diagnostic and prognostic proteins within clinical samples such as serum, plasma, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid. This chapter describes the technology behind the development of MS-based clinical protein assays and provides examples of where these assays are being used in diagnostic and prognostic settings.
Dose Rates Comparative Study for Workers Involved in the Hot-Cells Clean-Up Activities of the VVR-S Nuclear Research Reactor under Decommissioning
Authors: Tuca Carmen , Stochioiu Ana
Published: June 2022

The present study consists in the assessment of the dose rates potentially received by the workers involved in Hot Cells decontamination from a VVR-S type Nuclear Research Reactor under decommissioning. Two exposure scenarios were considered: the dosimetrist performing contamination scanning measurements (H*(10) inside of the Hot Cell prior decontamination and the mechanical worker performing floor decontamination. The dose rates were calculated based on the floor hot spots activity concentration using a standard and a numerical method (RESRAD Build code) assuming that the highest radiological risks are from these surfaces. It was noticed that the external dose rate is relatively high both for the floor scanning and decontamination and the internal committed effective dose is relatively low for floor decontamination due to fact that the worker is equipped with a high filter efficiency mask. By comparing the two methods results it is noticed that the dose rate obtained using the numerical method is 32% lower than the dose rate evaluated with the standard method, due to model complexity.
Humanizing childhood in early twentieth century Spain
Authors: Ribagorda Álvaro
Published: June 2022

Reseña del libro
ANNA KATHRYN KENDRICK, Humanizing childhood in early twentieth century Spain. Cambridge: Legenda, 2020
Totalitarismos europeos, propaganda y educación. Una historia visual desde los No-Do
Authors: De Pedro Ramiro León
Published: June 2022

Reseña del libro
Eulàlia Collelldemont y Conrad Vilanou (coords.). Totalitarismos europeos, propaganda y educación. Una historia visual desde los No-Do. Madrid: Trea, 2020
Travails of Mentally Challenged Relatives Coping with Care in Thulamela Municipality
Authors: Matambela Konanani Constance , Tshifhumulo Rendani
Published: June 2022

Background: Forensic psychiatric hospital usually deal with the problem of rejection of mentally ill patient by their families. Families report finding the burden of caring for their mentally Ill relatives who are also capable of committing crimes such as rape, murder and arson unbearable. They have to account for their crimes in the communities and often experience stigma. The family feels judged by both the society and health care professionals when they are unable to cope with the caregiving role. A lot of research on mental illness emphasises more on experiences of mental health care users and the caregiver of these mentally ill family members.

Aim: The study seeks to narrate the toils of mentally ill relatives caring for the sick.

Setting: The study was conducted in 2018 with caregivers of mentally ill patients in Thulamela municipality within the Vhembe district in Limpopo province.

Method: The study was qualitative in nature and an explorative and descriptive study design was used. Five families with relatives being rehabilitated at Hayani psychiatric hospital were chosen using convenience sampling. A focus group was used to collect data from the five families. Data was analysed thematically following the six stages of thematic data analysis.

Results: The study found that caregivers experience emotional, physical, financial, and social strains from caring for their mentally ill relative. They attempt to cope by seeking spiritual guidance and family support.

Conclusion: The forensic mental health system should device special programs that focus on coordinating, capacitating health practitioners and monitoring family care givers support services. Future study that focuses on assessing why health care practitioners are not willing to offer support services to our family care givers should be conducted.
A Critical Review on Methods for the Assessment of Trainees' Performance in Virtual Reality-based Construction Safety Training
Authors: Harichandran Aparna , Teizer Jochen
Published: June 2022

Virtual Reality (VR) is one of the transformative technologies that aid construction safety training. This study isa systematic review of literature on estimating the performance of the trainees during VR-based construction safety training. The critical analysis of the selected literature identifiedseven focus areasof research, often overlapping with oneor more areas.The focus areas include hazard recognition training, personalised feedback,training methodimprovement, the effect of VR training, the efficacy of VR training, safety behaviour analysis, and automated safety analysis. Most studies focus on either training with existing scenarios for improving hazard recognition or enhancing the training method with the latest technologies or supplementary devices. The possibilities of automated data collection during VR training need to be further explored for quantitativelyestimatingthe participant performance and analysis of close calls or safety incidents.
STAT3 inhibition decreases ATP-induced MUC8 gene expression in human airway epithelial cells
Authors: Kim Cheol Hong , Song Kyoung Seob
Published: June 2022

Background: Contact between the human pulmonary system and bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens can induce airway diseases. Although pathogen-induced mucus oversecretion and hyperproduction are frequently observed in the human respiratory tract, the molecular mechanisms of pathogen-induced mucus hypersecretion and overproduction remain unclear. The objective of this study was to investigate the physiological signaling mechanism of ATP-induced MUC8 gene expression in human airway epithelial cells. Methods: Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, a cytokine array, and a Ca2+ concentration assay were performed to investigate the ATP/P2Y2-induced MUC8 gene expression levels in human airway epithelial cells. Results: The ATP/P2Y2 complex robustly secreted interleukin (IL)-6 in a time-dependent manner, whereas siRNA-P2Y2 did not. Moreover, ATP/P2Y2 induced MUC8 gene expression. IL-6 secreted by ATP strongly elevated ATP/P2Y2-induced MUC8 gene expression compared to ATP/P2Y2. Interestingly, a specific STAT3 inhibitor, 5,15-DPP, dramatically inhibited ATP/P2Y2/IL-6-induced STAT3 phosphorylation and resulted in an approximately 5-fold decrease in MUC8 gene expression. Conclusions: We showed that IL-6-activated STAT6 is essential for ATP/P2Y2-induced MUC8 gene expression as part of inflammatory signaling by cytokines during airway inflammation. Our results provide a new molecular understanding of the signaling mechanism of MUC8 gene expression during airway inflammation.
Utility of Chicago Sky Blue Stain in Rapid Diagnosis of Mycotic Infections
Authors: Priya Shail , Kaore Navinchandra Motiram , Kaore Shilpa N , Kaur Surender
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Diagnosis of fungal infection is mostly relied on clinical skills assisted by array of diagnostic methods. Culture and molecular testing are specific but lacks sensitivity and are labour intensive, time consuming, expensive and not readily available. Direct examination using Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) mount is most often practiced but lacks contrast and requires a skilled eye to interpret. Chicago Sky Blue 6B (CSB) stain has shown a promising result providing coloured contrast and better sensitivity and specificity. Aim: To evaluate the rapid diagnosis of fungal infections using CSB stain over conventional KOH mounts. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was done at RIMS, Raipur catering to rural and tribal population in Chhattisgarh in Central India over a period of 10 months after due approval from Institutional Ethics Committee. Clinically, suspected cases of mycosis belonging to all ages of either gender attending Outpatient Department (OPD) of Dermatology and Ophthalmology Department, who were advised mycological evaluation by physician but not on treatment were included in study. The samples were processed with KOH mount and CSB stain and were observed by two independent observers. The data was managed in Microsoft office Excel and was analysed using tests of proportion and Pearson’s Chi-square test for significance. Results: A total of 128 participants were involved in the study with a male preponderance of 96/128 (75%) as against 32/128 (25%). A total of 110 patients were diagnosed using CSB 6B stain whereas 80 patients were diagnosed using KOH mount. CSB 6B was evaluated against the conventional KOH mount using a Chi-square test and was found to be highly significant with Chi-square value of 39.74 with 1 degree of freedom and p-value of <0.001. Conclusion: This study brought out the significance of CSB 6B stain over conventional KOH mount with better sensitivity, specificity, Negative Predictive Value (NPV) and Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and ease and rapidity of diagnosis with better colour contrast helping clinicians with prompt initiation of treatment with a laboratory confirmation.
Mammalian responses to fire on Newnes Plateau: A yardstick for future recovery
Authors: Lothian Andrew J. , Denny Martin J. , Tong Nicholas W.
Published: June 2022

A major fire swept through Newnes Plateau near Lithgow in 2013, burning 50,000 hectares of bushland. Long-term monitoring programs were already established, with half the sites impacted by the fire. It was then possible to record changes in fauna populations in response to the fire. Detailed surveys for a range of mammalian fauna were undertaken twice a year from 2011 to 2019. The results from the comprehensive surveys showed that even with high intensity fire over a large portion of the landscape, habitat recovery is relatively quick. Significant Before-After Control-Impact differences were observed for five microhabitat metrics. Ground cover components (forb and fern) returned to pre-fire levels quickly (within 0.5 years). Mid storey components returned to pre-fire levels within 6.0 years of the fire.

Small mammal responses are species specific, but again, most return to pre-fire (or at least Control site) levels within 6.0 years. Antechinus mimetes mimetes is one exception, disappearing from Impact sites within 2.0 years of the 2013 fire. Recovery of both Rattus species was faster than Antechinus, and coincided with return of low shrub cover to unburnt site levels. Recovery to control site levels was often faster than to pre-fire levels. The arboreal mammal Petauroides volans increased (non-significantly) post-fire in Control sites, contrasting with declines seen in the species at lower elevations.

Total native, non-volant mammal abundance at each site declined with fire (more so at burnt sites), yet species richness remained the same. Simpson’s Diversity Index increased post-fire in burnt sites. These three factors combine to suggest that all species in the community assemblage remain present after fire, albeit at lower levels than prior to the fire.

Broad-scale, long term fauna monitoring has allowed us to analyse mammal and habitat responses to fire, though there are limitations placed on interpretations. Habitat Complexity Score is too coarse a metric to tease out differences in overall or lower habitat categories. Presence/absence data also limit our ability to fully describe site occupation for larger/introduced mammal species. The design of our analyses, however, provide a robust framework for analysing fauna responses to fire, and can be used to predict expected recovery trajectories for mammal populations after the larger, more recent Gospers Mountain fire in 2019.
School Health Services and Pupils’ Academic Performance in Geita Town Council
Authors: Kibumo Grace , W. Omer Solomon
Published: June 2022

The study aimed at assessing the influence of school health services on pupils’ academic performance in Geita town council. The Gay and Airasian methods were used to determine the sample size of the study. Seventeen head teachers and seventeen health teachers from seventeen public primary schools within Geita town council were selected. The data was collected through questionnaires and interviews to determine the current school health services provided and their influence on pupils’ academic performance. Validity of data collection was tested using a pilot study. Using Cronbach Coefficient Alpha, reliability was tested and a coefficient of 0.7 was realized, which was considered reliable. The quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) for producing descriptive statistics that gave tables of frequencies and percentages. Meanwhile qualitative data was coded thematically for easier narration. The study results reveal that, when pupils receive the health services or medical services they tend to be at school and concentrate in their studies. Performance in the National Examinations in Geita Town Council from 2018 to 2021 shows that, those schools that received health services tended to improve on their academic performance. However, there were schools that received health services and yet their performance was wanting.
Barriers of Local Organizations for Providing Free Food Support in the Priority Neighborhood, Toronto: What We Need Further
Authors: Islam Qazi Shafayetul , Akter Nasima
Published: June 2022

Introduction: The provincial and federal governments provided emergency funding to local community organizations for free food support to people affected by COVID-19. The study's goals were to explore the barriers of the people and the organizations while receiving and providing free food support and what further was needed to give the people food support in the priority neighborhood.

Methods: Nine representatives of the local community organizations and 15 volunteers participated in the community conversation or the extensive group discussion. They shared their experiences about barriers and what we further needed to provide food support for the priority neighborhood like Taylor Massey. Two note-takers obtained data from the community conversation. This is a qualitative study. It used a thematic approach to analyze the data and interpretation.

Results: Information lacking about free food, language barriers, the social stigma associated with free food support, and fear of COVID-19 were the barriers of community people to receiving food support. On the other hand, the community organizations lacked information about who needed real food support, lacked enough transportation support to distribute the food, enough empty spaces to store food, and enough numbers of committed and trained volunteers to help with the food distribution. Also, the community organizations had limited funding to meet people's food needs. The local community organizations needed an assessment to understand the available resources so that local organizations could use the resources for an effective food program. Furthermore, the organizations required coordination and extended food funding to affected families. In addition, the local organizations needed to work with community gardens, community kitchens, and food banks to support and meet the community's demands.

Conclusion: People and local organizations had information and communication, social, structural and systemic, and financial barriers while receiving and providing food in the priority neighborhood. The study indicated what were needed to make the food support program effective.
Development and Validation of a UPLC Method for Determination of Mirabegron in Tablet Dosage Forms
Authors: Anupama B. , Viswanath A. , Azizunnisa . , Vaseemunnisa Md.
Published: June 2022

Mirabegron is a drug that is used to treat an overactive bladder. Mirabegron activates the β3 adrenergic receptor in the bladder's detrusor muscle, causing muscular relaxation and bladder capacity expansion. A few measurement procedures have been discovered, but they are inconvenient and time-consuming. The current study developed a simple, exact, precise, and practical UPLC technique for determining the amount of Mirabegron in tablet dosage forms. For the verification of Mirabegron, a simple and specific UPLC approach is applied. On an Acquity BEH C18 (50*3.0mm. 1.7m), chromatographic separation was achieved using a versatile stage containing Potassium di hydrogen phosphate: Methanol(70:30) v/v with a detection wavelength of 254 nm. Mirabegron (r2 = 0.997) showed linearity in the 50-150 g/ml range. The amount of Mirabegron to be employed by the suggested technique matches the label exactly. The proposed technique was validated according to ICH guidelines and used to ensure that the correct amount of medication was present in the dosage form.
Assessment of the Linguistic Resources of Communication
Authors: Purpura James E. , Dakin Jee Wha
Published: June 2022

The sociocultural, economic, and geopolitical forces in education, the workplace, and in our daily lives have significantly increased the linguistic competencies needed to function successfully in today's world. In this context, applied linguists need to assess language users' ability to use a range of linguistic resources for expressing propositions for a variety of purposes in written, spoken, and visual forms. Linguistic resources include the knowledge of grammar and its use for creating the meanings required for humans to interact and cooperate with others, or perform other real‐world tasks. This entry explains how the representations of linguistic resources of communication have been conceptualized by language testers first as knowledge of grammatical forms, and more recently as resources for communicating contextualized meanings. Assessment of linguistic resources for meaning making requires a meaning‐oriented framework as a basis for test development and validation. This meaning‐oriented model of L2 proficiency provides a framework not only for the assessment of forms and meanings, but also for form‐meaning mappings used to convey propositions, which function in context to convey a range of meanings. This entry also discusses how these resources have been measured and researched in applied linguistics and suggests the need for additional research.
Mixed Methods
Authors: Kim Dan
Published: June 2022

This entry describes the fundamental basis for understanding mixed methods research in applied linguistics, including various stances on mixing paradigms, purposes of mixing methods, and mixed methods research designs. It also illustrates some data analysis frameworks that are commonly used in mixed methods studies and discusses quality issues in mixed methods. Finally, some examples of mixed methods research in applied linguistics are introduced as well as the trends that show some limitations in current mixed methods studies to achieve higher degree of methods integration.
Quantitative Methods
Authors: Farhady Hossein
Published: June 2022

Debates in applied linguistics about quantitative research methods (QRM) over the past few decades have contributed to sharpening an understanding of the use of QRM in the field. QRM remains one of the most widely practiced approaches in social sciences in general, and in applied linguistics in particular. This entry explains the major features of QRM in as nontechnical terms as possible, beginning with the classic definition of the term “research” as a systematic approach to answering questions. The three key components in this definition—a question, a systematic approach, and an answer—are explained because within each lie the controversies in the field. The roots of QRM in the positivistic paradigm are outlined in order to clarify the characteristics of QRM in terms of ontology, epistemology, methodology, and axiology. A working definition for QRM is formulated as an inquiry where an impartial researcher investigates cause–effect relationships between the variables in a world of real objects. The basic principles for formulating research questions, designing a systematic procedure, and answering a research question are described. The quality of research is discussed in terms of internal and external validity as well as judicious interpretation and generalization of results.
Caddeddi, Sicily
Authors: Wilson R. J. A.
Published: June 2022

Caddeddi is a Roman villa near Noto in Sicily built in the second half of the fourth century
ce
. Overlooking the Tellaro River, the villa is imperfectly known, partly because of the collapse of the
piano nobile
on the north and east, and partly because a modern farm lies on top. Its most significant surviving features are four mosaics, one geometric and three figured. The latter show respectively the ransom of Hector; Bacchus and the fruits of the field; and a hunt scene (soldiers capturing beasts for the arena). As at Piazza Armerina these are likely to have been laid by mosaicists operating from Carthage.
Improving Shear Strength of Ti/Mg Bimetal Composites Prepared by Hot‐Dip Aluminizing and Solid–Liquid Compound Casting
Authors: Shangguan Jingjing , Zhao Jianhua , Zhang Jiaxuan , Gu Cheng , Shi Yu , Wang Yajun
Published: June 2022

It is a great challenge to achieve the joining between Ti and Mg for their low solid solubility and positive formation enthalpy value. To fabricate high strength TC4/AZ91D bimetallic composite with metallurgical bonding interface, Al coating is prepared on the surface of TC4 alloy by hot‐dip technology, and Al‐coated TC4/AZ91D bimetal is prepared by solid–liquid compound casting herein. The effect of the hot‐dip process on the thickness and composition of the Al coating on the TC4 sample is discussed. Process parameters including casting temperature and liquid‐to‐solid volume ratio are investigated. The results reveal that the shear strength of Al‐coated TC4/AZ91D bimetal reaches 48.5 MPa when hot dipping at 700 °C for 15 min and casting at 720 °C with the volume ratio of 24, while that of the sample without Al interlayer is only 19.1 MPa. The reason is due to the formation of Ti(Al, Mg)3 intermetallic compound and Al12Mg17 + δ‐Mg eutectic structure at the interface. The results are helpful for the further development of high strength Ti/Mg bimetal by combining hot‐dip technology and solid–liquid composite casting technology.
Anisotropic Mechanics of 2D Materials
Authors: Gao Zhi-da , Jiang Zong-hui-yi , Li Ji-dong , Li Bao-wen , Long Yu-yang , Li Xue-mei , Yin Jun , Guo Wan-lin
Published: June 2022

Anisotropic mechanics of van der Waals (vdWs) materials offers opportunity to peel off individual atomic layers, initiating a 2D revolution in the fields of materials science, physics, and chemistry. The elasticity, bending, and fracture strength of most of their 2D derivatives are also orientation‐dependent, which not only determines the reliability of devices based on 2D materials but also offers a vast playground for atomic manufacturing with tunable functions. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the anisotropic mechanical properties of 2D materials is imminent. In this review, the anisotropic mechanical properties of 2D materials are summarized in attempt to capture the current progress in this field, as well as the route toward their applications. Following a brief discussion of the anisotropic lattice structures of 2D materials, unique experimental methodologies that have been developed to characterize their anisotropic mechanics are discussed. Then, the review pivots on recent processes in anisotropic elastic, fracture, friction, and bending properties of 2D materials. Unique applications of these anisotropic properties, such as mechanical fabrication of atomic precision, as well as anisotropic strain‐induced piezoelectric and band modulation, are further highlighted. Finally, besides emphasizing the need for breakthrough in anisotropic mechanics, prospects for the developments of this field are suggested.
Biomedical Applications of MXene‐Integrated Composites: Regenerative Medicine, Infection Therapy, Cancer Treatment, and Biosensing
Authors: Maleki Aziz , Ghomi Matineh , Nikfarjam Nasser , Akbari Mahsa , Sharifi Esmaeel , Shahbazi Mohammad‐Ali , Kermanian Mehraneh , Seyedhamzeh Mohammed , Nazarzadeh Zare Ehsan , Mehrali Mehdi , Moradi Omid , Sefat Farshid , Mattoli Virgilio , Makvandi Pooyan , Chen Yu
Published: June 2022

MXenes (viz., transition metal carbides, carbonitrides, and nitrides) have emerged as a new subclass of 2D materials. Due to their outstanding physicochemical and biological properties, MXenes have gained much attention in the biomedical field in recent years, including drug delivery systems, regenerative medicine, and biosensing. Additionally, the incorporation of MXenes into hydrogels has garnered significant interest in biomedical engineering as an electroactive and mechanical nanoreinforcer capable of converting nonconductive scaffolds into excellent conductors of electricity with an impressive effect on mechanical properties for the engineering of electroactive organs and tissues such as cardiac, skeletal muscle, and nerve. However, many questions and problems remain unresolved that need to be answered to usher these 2D materials toward their true destiny. Thus, this review paper aims to provide an overview of the design and applications of MXene‐integrated composites for biomedical applications, including cardiac tissue engineering, wound healing, infection therapy, cancer therapy, and biosensors. Moreover, the current challenges and limitations of utilizing MXenes in vivo are highlighted and discussed, followed by its prospects as a guideline toward possible various futuristic biomedical applications. This review article will inspire researchers, who search for properties, opportunities, and challenges of using this 2D nanomaterial in biomedical applications.
Molecular Doping Enabling Mobility Boosting of 2D Sn2+‐Based Perovskites
Authors: Reo Youjin , Zhu Huihui , Liu Ao , Noh Yong‐Young
Published: June 2022

2D metal halide perovskites are attracting great interest for their diverse applications owing to their intrinsic superior stability compared to their 3D counterparts; however, their device performance is limited by insufficient charge transport because of the insulating bulky organic ligands. Electrical doping is a direct and efficient method for improving the electrical properties of emerging semiconductors; however, its feasibility and mechanism remain elusive in metal halide perovskites. To clarify this issue, in this study, diverse organic/inorganic molecules are deposited on a typical phenylethyl ammonium tin iodide ((PEA)2SnI4) perovskite by constructing a heterojunction. In addition, the variations in the electrical performance of the perovskite semiconductor are monitored. The low work function of the dopant molecules enables the spontaneous electron transfer from the perovskite, resulting in the p‐doping effect on the perovskite host, which is verified by a series of characterization methods. The efficient charge transfer without deterioration of the perovskite microstructure improves the Hall mobility up to 100 cm2 V−1 s−1. Therefore, this work demonstrates the high doping efficiency of halide perovskites using a simple molecular charge transfer approach and provides a new opportunity for employing 2D perovskites in high‐efficiency optoelectronic devices.
Switchable Nonlinear Optical Absorption of Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Liang Yuning , Hu Wenjie , Yuan Xue , Zeng Zaiping , Zhu Baohua , Gu Yuzong
Published: June 2022

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are widely explored owing to their excellent nonlinear optical (NLO) properties. However, researchers have mainly focused on designing new structures of MOF crystals to adjust the NLO response while ignoring the influence of the number of metal–ligand coordination bonds on the NLO properties of MOFs. In this study, the influence of the coordination numbers of MOFs on their NLO properties is studied for the first time. Herein, MOFs with different coordination numbers, using trifluoroacetic acid as an auxiliary agent, are synthesized and their NLO properties are tested using the Z‐scan technique. The results reveal that the NLO absorption properties of MOFs with high coordination numbers can be effectively modulated from saturable absorption to reverse saturable absorption by increasing the excitation intensity. First‐principles calculations show that a change in the coordination numbers leads to a change in the charge transfer from metal to ligand, thereby resulting in different NLO responses. The MOFs with a high coordination number have potential applications in novel optical switches or logic gates. These results provide a reference for the precise adjustment of the NLO properties of MOFs.
Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed Three‐Component Cascade Annulation for Modular Assembly of N‐Alkoxylated Isoindolin‐1‐Ones with Quaternary Carbon Center
Authors: Hu Wenbo , Yan Liqin , Zuo Youpeng , Kong Shuwen , Pu Yue , Tang Qiang , Wang Xinyu , He Xinwei , Shang Yongjia
Published: June 2022

A cascade C−H activation, annulation, and etherification of N‐hydroxybenzamides with propargylamines provides a flexible route to N‐alkoxylated 3‐arylisoindolin‐1‐ones. Three new bonds (C−C, C−N, and C−O) are generated to afford a series of isoindolin‐1‐ones bearing a tetrasubstituted carbon in 49–82% yield. The utility of this method was showcased by gram‐scale synthesis and synthetic transformations of the product to access structurally diverse isoindolinones.

magnified image
Remediating Desmoplasia with EGFR‐Targeted Photoactivable Multi‐Inhibitor Liposomes Doubles Overall Survival in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Obaid Girgis , Bano Shazia , Thomsen Hanna , Callaghan Susan , Shah Nimit , Swain Joseph W. R. , Jin Wendong , Ding Xiadong , Cameron Colin G. , McFarland Sherri A. , Wu Juwell , Vangel Mark , Stoilova‐McPhie Svetla , Zhao Jie , Mino‐Kenudson Mari , Lin Charles , Hasan Tayyaba
Published: June 2022

Desmoplasia is characteristic of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which exhibits 5‐year survival rates of 3%. Desmoplasia presents physical and biochemical barriers that contribute to treatment resistance, yet depleting the stroma alone is unsuccessful and even detrimental to patient outcomes. This study is the first demonstration of targeted photoactivable multi‐inhibitor liposomes (TPMILs) that induce both photodynamic and chemotherapeutic tumor insult, while simultaneously remediating desmoplasia in orthotopic PDAC. TPMILs targeted with cetuximab (anti‐EGFR mAb) contain lipidated benzoporphyrin derivative (BPD‐PC) photosensitizer and irinotecan. The desmoplastic tumors comprise human PDAC cells and patient‐derived cancer‐associated fibroblasts. Upon photoactivation, the TPMILs induce 90% tumor growth inhibition at only 8.1% of the patient equivalent dose of nanoliposomal irinotecan (nal‐IRI). Without EGFR targeting, PMIL photoactivation is ineffective. TPMIL photoactivation is also sixfold more effective at inhibiting tumor growth than a cocktail of Visudyne‐photodynamic therapy (PDT) and nal‐IRI, and also doubles survival and extends progression‐free survival by greater than fivefold. Second harmonic generation imaging reveals that TPMIL photoactivation reduces collagen density by >90% and increases collagen nonalignment by >103‐fold. Collagen nonalignment correlates with a reduction in tumor burden and survival. This single‐construct phototoxic, chemotherapeutic, and desmoplasia‐remediating regimen offers unprecedented opportunities to substantially extend survival in patients with otherwise dismal prognoses.
Programmable Auxeticity in Hydrogel Metamaterials via Shape‐Morphing Unit Cells
Authors: Skarsetz Oliver , Slesarenko Viacheslav , Walther Andreas
Published: June 2022

Mechanical metamaterials recruit unique mechanical behavior that is unavailable in bulk materials from a periodic unit cell structure with a specific geometry. However, such metamaterials can typically not be reconfigured once manufactured. Herein, the authors introduce shape morphing of a hydrogel metamaterial via spatio‐selective integration of responsive actuating elements to reconfigure the mesoscale unit cell geometry to reach programmable auxeticity on the macroscale. Via thermal control, the unit cell angle of a honeycomb structure can be precisely programmed from 68° to 107°. This results in negative, zero, or positive Poisson's ratio under applied tensile strain. The geometrical reconfiguration with resulting programmable auxeticity is predicted and verified by finite element (FE) simulation. This concept of shape‐morphing hydrogel metamaterials via the addition of actuating struts into otherwise passive architectures offers a new strategy for reconfigurable metamaterials and extends applications of hydrogels in general. It can be readily extended to other architectures and may find applications in mechanical computing as well as soft robotics.
In Situ Nanoscale Dynamics Imaging in a Proton‐Conducting Solid Oxide for Protonic Ceramic Fuel Cells
Authors: Gorobtsov Oleg , Song Yumeng , Fritz Kevin , Weinstock Daniel , Sun Yifei , Sheyfer Dina , Cha Wonsuk , Suntivich Jin , Singer Andrej
Published: June 2022

Hydrogen fuel cells and electrolyzers operating below 600 °C, ideally below 400 °C, are essential components in the clean energy transition. Yttrium‐doped barium zirconate BaZr0.8Y0.2O3‐d (BZY) has attracted a lot of attention as a proton‐conducting solid oxide for electrochemical devices due to its high chemical stability and proton conductivity in the desired temperature range. Grain interfaces and topological defects modulate bulk proton conductivity and hydration, especially at low temperatures. Therefore, understanding the nanoscale crystal structure dynamics in situ is crucial to achieving high proton transport, material stability, and extending the operating range of proton‐conducting solid oxides. Here, Bragg coherent X‐ray diffractive imaging is applied to investigate in situ and in 3D nanoscale dynamics in BZY during hydration over 40 h at 200 °C, in the low‐temperature range. An unexpected activity of topological defects and subsequent cracking is found on a nanoscale covered by the macroscale stability. The rearrangements in structure correlate with emergent regions of different lattice constants, suggesting heterogeneous hydration. The results highlight the extent and impact of nanoscale processes in proton‐conducting solid oxides, informing future development of low‐temperature protonic ceramic electrochemical cells.
Versatile Asymmetric Separator with Dendrite‐Free Alloy Anode Enables High‐Performance Li–S Batteries
Authors: Yan Wenqi , Yang Jin‐Lin , Xiong Xiaosong , Fu Lijun , Chen Yuhui , Wang Zhaogen , Zhu Yusong , Zhao Jian‐Wei , Wang Tao , Wu Yuping
Published: June 2022

Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) with extremely‐high theoretical energy density (2600 Wh kg−1) are deemed to be the most likely energy storage system to be commercialized. However, the polysulfides shuttling and lithium (Li) metal anode failure in LSBs limit its further commercialization. Herein, a versatile asymmetric separator and a Li‐rich lithium–magnesium (Li–Mg) alloy anode are applied in LSBs. The asymmetric separator is consisted of lithiated‐sulfonated porous organic polymer (SPOP‐Li) and Li6.75La3Zr1.75Nb0.25O12 (LLZNO) layers toward the cathode and anode, respectively. SPOP‐Li serves as a polysulfides barrier and Li‐ion conductor, while the LLZNO functions as an “ion redistributor”. Combining with a stable Li–Mg alloy anode, the symmetric cell achieves 5300 h of Li stripping/plating and the modified LSBs exhibit a long lifespan with an ultralow fading rate of 0.03% per cycle for over 1000 cycles at 5 C. Impressively, even under a high‐sulfur‐loading (6.1 mg cm−2), an area capacity of 4.34 mAh cm−2 after 100 cycles can still be maintained, demonstrating high potential for practical application.
Electrochemical Oxygen Generator With 99.9% Oxygen Purity and High Energy Efficiency
Authors: Zhang Yu , Xie Ke , Zhou Fangyao , Wang Feiteng , Xu Qian , Hu Jun , Ding Honghe , Li Peng , Tan Yi , Li Deming , Zhu Junfa , Zhou Huang , Zhao Changming , Lin Sen , Wu Yuen
Published: June 2022

Under the growing crisis of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, the global medical system is facing the predicament of an acute shortage of medical‐grade oxygen (O2, ≥ 99.5% purity). Herein, an oxygen generation device is manufactured that relies on electrochemical technology. The performance of the electrochemical oxygen generator (EOG) is remarkably improved to a practically applicable level, achieving long‐term (>200 h), stable, and quick production (>1.5 L min−1) of high purity O2 (99.9%) at high energy efficiency (496 L kW−1 h−1), via simultaneous optimization for intrinsic electrochemical reaction mechanisms, electrocatalysts, and external cell structure. The EOG also presents powerful competitiveness in user experience, which finds expression in high portability (4.7 kg), nearly instant O2 production (<1 s), and a quiet working condition (<39 dB). The EOG shows great potential to substitute commercial pressure swing adsorption O2 generation devices, which may significantly impact the traditional oxygen production industry.
Hairy fleabane germination in response to temperature, osmotic potential, pH, salinity levels, and seed dormancy periods
Authors: Shrestha Anil , Maier Vivian , Steinhauer Katrina , Frynzyan Takui , Navarro Idalia
Published: June 2022

Hairy fleabane (Erigeron bonariensis L. Cronq.) is an invasive weed in low‐disturbance annual, perennial, and noncrop systems in the San Joaquin Valley (SJV), California. It is often observed emerging year‐round in diverse environmental conditions in the SJV. However, very little information is available on the reasons for this. The study aimed to assess the effect of temperature, water potential, salinity, pH level, and dormancy periods on hairy fleabane's germination. Tests were conducted at different day/night temperatures (5:0, 10:5, 15:10, 20:15, 25:20, and 30:25 °C), water potential (0 to –5.56 MPa), salinity (0–25 dS m–1), and pH (5–9). Germination tests were also performed on seeds the day they were collected from mature plants, and 7, 14, and 21 d later. Tests were conducted in growth chambers set to 20 °C or under ambient laboratory conditions at 22 °C. About 1% of the seeds germinated at 5 °C but maximum germination occurred at 25:20 °C. About 9% of the seeds germinated at –0.51 MPa and the estimated value for 50% germination reduction was –0.2 MPa. Seed germination had high tolerance to salinity, as 42% of the seeds germinated at 15 dS m–1. Germination did not differ across pH levels. About 50% of the seeds germinated the day they were collected, indicating that this species had a very short seed dormancy requirement. These findings could explain why hairy fleabane is observed emerging year‐round in the SJV, particularly in irrigated cropping systems.
Distinct neuronal excitability alterations of medial prefrontal cortex in early‐life neglect model of rats
Authors: Zhang Yu , Sun Xiuping , Dou Changsong , Li Xianglei , Zhang Ling , Qin Chuan
Published: June 2022

Object

Early‐life neglect has irreversible emotional effects on the central nervous system. In this work, we aimed to elucidate distinct functional neural changes in medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of model rats.

Methods

Maternal separation with early weaning was used as a rat model of early‐life neglect. The excitation of glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons in rat mPFC was recorded and analyzed by whole‐cell patch clamp.

Results

Glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons of mPFC were distinguished by typical electrophysiological properties. The excitation of mPFC glutamatergic neurons was significantly increased in male groups, while the excitation of mPFC GABAergic neurons was significant in both female and male groups, but mainly in terms of rest membrane potential and amplitude, respectively.

Conclusions

Glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons in medial prefrontal cortex showed different excitability changes in a rat model of early‐life neglect, which can contribute to distinct mechanisms for emotional and cognitive manifestations.