bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enrichment and quantification of 18 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from intermediates for plastics production by a generic liquid chromatography column switching
Authors: Kochale Kjell , Thissen Jana , Cunha Ricardo , Lamotte Stefan , Teutenberg Thorsten , Schmidt Torsten C.
Published: June 2023

The polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon concentration in plastic products is regulated in (European Union) No. 1272/2013. However, this only covers the end products and not intermediate substances. Therefore, a generic method was developed to analyze the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons listed by the Environmental Protection Agency and the European Union. This method is based on direct large volume injection from solutions of plastic additives followed by liquid chromatography coupled to fluorescence detection. The additives Irganox 1010, ureido methacrylate, and cetyl methacrylate 1618F were used as examples for method development. Two serially coupled columns allowed the matrix to be removed on the first column and the analytes to be separated on the second column. The columns were connected by an intermediate valve. The valve allowed the matrix to be diverted after the first column and water to be dosed upstream of the second column via an additional pump. This allowed samples in aqueous or organic media to be focused at the column head. An injection volume of 100 μl and online aqueous dilution of 1:3 led to a limit of detection below 1 ng/ml for 15 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Moreover, concentrations between 1.6 and 10.3 ng/ml were found in the three plastic additives.
Effects of translocation on American crocodile movements and habitat use in South Florida
Authors: Brunell Arnold M. , Deem Vincent , Bankovich Brittany , Bled Florent , Mazzotti Frank J.
Published: June 2023

The range of the threatened American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) in the United States is limited to the southernmost parts of Florida. As this species has recovered concurrently with an increasing human population, human–crocodile conflicts have also increased. Resolving conflicts can involve translocating crocodiles; however, they often return to the site from which they were removed. We examined the effects of translocation on crocodile movements, habitat use, body condition, and survival in Florida, USA, in 2018–2019 to refine recommendations for managers considering translocation to resolve human–crocodile conflict. We captured and attached global positioning system (GPS) units to 17 crocodiles, 10 of which served as a reference group (free‐ranging crocodiles released at their capture site) and 7 served as a treatment group (crocodiles that were translocated 14–158 km from their capture site). We collected location data from individual crocodiles for 34–661 days ( ~ 250 days for each group). Body condition was similar for both groups. Corticosterone levels measured periodically during handling indicated that crocodiles experienced increasing stress levels during handling. Three crocodiles translocated ≤45 km from their original capture site returned to that location within 13 days. Three crocodiles translocated ≥110 km did not return. One female translocated 152 km was recaptured 0.42 km from its original capture site 965 days after its release. We identified 2 states of characteristic movement patterns: state 1 indicated individuals moving slowly and somewhat randomly, and state 2 indicated individuals exhibiting fast, active directional movement. Translocated individuals were more likely than reference individuals to switch to, and stay in, state 2. Because of concerns regarding return rates and heightened stress as a result of capture and translocation, we suggest crocodile translocations have limited conservation value and may only be worth considering once all other reasonable options are exhausted.
Leaching of rare earth elements from coal ash using low molecular weight organocarboxylic acids: Complexation overview and kinetic evaluation
Authors: Banerjee Riya , Chakladar Saswati , Chattopadhyay Shyamal K. , Chakravarty Sanchita
Published: June 2023

The study of thermodynamics and kinetics of leaching rare earth elements (REEs) is a fundamental aspect in understanding the mechanism behind the leaching process. Leaching of REEs from coal ash with aqueous solution of organocarboxylic acid is a heterogeneous fluid‐particle system. In the present study, the leaching mechanisms of these three potential organocarboxylic acids, tartaric acid, lactic acid, and citric acid were examined over a range of temperature (30–90°C) at various leaching durations. The kinetic data thus obtained were found to follow deviation from the conventional shrinking core model (SCM). A mixed mechanism model was deduced to be the optimum fit to the data with high precision (R2 > 0.95) and desired graphical linearity with closer interception to the origin. Aluminosilicate matrix remained unaltered after acid treatment which is the unchanged core concluded as from the kinetic mechanism. Morphological analysis using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and particle size determinations were suggestive of significant reduction in grain size post leaching with organocarboxylic acids, tartaric acid being the most effective of all.
Effects of conservation practices on global wind erosion control: Evidence from experimental data
Authors: Xiao Liangang , You Zengtao , Zhang Huifang , Xie Zhixiang , Zhao Rongqin , Greenwood Philip
Published: June 2023

Wind erosion represents one of the major land degradation forms that significantly threatens sustainable development across the globe. A series of conservation practices have been widely developed and tested in order to effectively reduce wind erosion rates in non‐irrigated dry and semi‐dry lands. However, a comprehensive investigation regarding the efficacy of conservation practices and potential impacting factors on erosion control at the global scale has not been undertaken. In this study, a synthesis was conducted, based on data from global experimental plots, to comprehensively examine the efficacy of varying conservation practices, and their effectiveness at reducing erosion, in different geographical regions, under varying climatic conditions, and with different soil properties. The results showed that conservation practices were able to reduce wind erosion rates by over 52% globally. Straw use and soil stabilizer were the most effective measures in wind erosion control, which could reduce erosion rates by over 70%. Wind erosion control efficacy of conservation practices differed among climatic zones, continents, and countries. Notably, the lowest efficacy was observed in dry climatic zones. Erosion control efficacy highly depended on climatic conditions, such as mean annual precipitation (MAP), mean annual temperature (MAT), wind speed, and soil properties, such as water content and clay content. We further observed a positive correlation between wind erosion reduction rates and straw mulching rates, suggesting a straw mulching rate of at least 40% was necessary in order to reach a potential erosion reduction rate of 70%. To sum up, this study illustrates that the overall efficacy of conservation practices in wind erosion control is highly effective at the global scale, but the specific effects vary among different regions, and depend on conservation practice type, climatic condition, and soil property. The lower erosion reduction rate of dry regions at high erosion risk suggests the high erosion control pressure, and more effective measures should be considered and developed. The results of this study are, importantly, complementary to existing wind erosion control guidelines.
Parallel mean curvature biconservative surfaces in complex space forms
Authors: Bibi Hiba , Chen Bang‐Yen , Fetcu Dorel , Oniciuc Cezar
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we consider PMC surfaces in complex space forms, and study the interaction between the notions of PMC, totally real and biconservative. We first consider PMC surfaces in a non‐flat complex space form and prove that they are biconservative if and only if totally real. Then, we find a Simons‐type formula for a well‐chosen vector field constructed from the mean curvature vector field and use it to prove a rigidity result for CMC biconservative surfaces in two‐dimensional complex space forms. We prove then a reduction codimension result for PMC biconservative surfaces in non‐flat complex space forms. We conclude by constructing examples of CMC non‐PMC biconservative submanifolds from the Segre embedding and discuss when they are proper‐biharmonic.
Fourier bases of the planar self‐affine measures with three digits
Authors: Chen Ming‐Liang , Liu Jing‐Cheng , Yao Yong‐Hua
Published: June 2023

For an expansive real matrix and a noncollinear integer digit set with , let be the self‐affine measure defined by . In this paper, some necessary and sufficient conditions for contains an infinite orthogonal exponential set or to be a spectral measure are given.
Highly Stretchable Conjugated Polymer/Elastomer Blend Films with Sandwich Structure
Authors: Qin Ru , Wu Yin , Ding Zicheng , Zhang Rui , Yu Jifa , Huang Wenliang , Liu Dongle , Lu Guanghao , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Zhao Kui , Han Yanchun
Published: June 2023

The physical blending of high‐mobility conjugated polymers with ductile elastomers provides a simple way to realize high‐performance stretchable films. However, how to control the morphology of the conjugated polymer and elastomer blend film and its response to mechanical fracture processes during stretching are not well understood. Herein, a sandwich structure is constructed in the blend film based on a conjugated polymer poly[(5‐fluoro‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole‐4,7‐diyl)(4,4‐dihexadecyl‐4H‐cyclopenta[2,1‐b:3,4‐b″]dithiophene‐2,6‐diyl)(6‐fluoro‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole‐4,7‐diyl)(4,4‐dihexadecyl‐4H‐cyclopenta[2,1‐b:3,4‐b″]dithiophene‐2,6‐diyl)] (PCDTFBT) and an elastomer polystyrene‐block‐poly(ethylene‐ran‐butylene)‐block‐polystyrene (SEBS). The sandwich structure is composed of a PCDTFBT:SEBS mixed layer laminated with a PCDTFBT‐rich layer at both the top and bottom surfaces. During stretching, the external strain energy can be effectively dissipated by the deformation of the crystalline PCDTFBT domains and amorphous SEBS phases and the recrystallization of the PCDTFBT chains. This endows the blend film with excellent ductility, with a large crack onset strain exceeding 1100%, and minimized the electrical degradation of the blend film at a large strain. This study indicates that the electrical and mechanical performance of conjugated polymer/elastomer blend films can be improved by manipulating their microstructure.
Whole‐Brain Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Reveals Distinct Alterations in Neurometabolic Profile in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy
Authors: Klietz Martin , Mahmoudi Nima , Maudsley Andrew A. , Sheriff Sulaiman , Bronzlik Paul , Almohammad Mohammad , Nösel Patrick , Wegner Florian , Höglinger Günter U. , Lanfermann Heinrich , Ding Xiao‐Qi
Published: June 2023

Background

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is an atypical Parkinsonian syndrome characterized by supranuclear gaze palsy, early postural instability, and a frontal dysexecutive syndrome. Contrary to normal brain magnetic resonance imaging in Parkinson's disease (PD), PSP shows specific cerebral atrophy patterns and alterations, but these findings are not present in every patient, and it is still unclear if these signs are also detectable in early disease stages.

Objective

The aim of the present study was to analyze the metabolic profile of patients with clinically diagnosed PSP in comparison with matched healthy volunteers and PD patients using whole‐brain magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (wbMRSI).

Methods

Thirty‐nine healthy controls (HCs), 29 PD, and 22 PSP patients underwent wbMRSI. PSP and PD patients were matched for age and handedness with HCs. Clinical characterization was performed using the Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, PSP rating scale, and DemTect (test for cognitive assessment).

Results

In PSP patients a significant reduction in N‐acetyl‐aspartate (NAA) was detected in all brain lobes. Fractional volume of the cerebrospinal fluid significantly increased in PSP patients compared to PD and healthy volunteers.

Conclusions

In PSP much more neuronal degeneration and cerebral atrophy have been detected compared with PD. The most relevant alteration is the decrease in NAA in all lobes of the brain, which also showed a partial correlation with clinical symptoms. However, more studies are needed to confirm the additional value of wbMRSI in clinical practice. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Hybrid Fibonacci wavelet method to solve fractional‐order logistic growth model
Authors: Ahmed Shahid , Jahan Shah , Nisar Kottakkaran S.
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study is to develop the Fibonacci wavelet method together with the quasi‐linearization technique to solve the fractional‐order logistic growth model. The block‐pulse functions are employed to construct the operational matrices of fractional‐order integration. The fractional derivative is described in the Caputo sense. The present time‐fractional population growth model is converted into a set of nonlinear algebraic equations using the proposed generated matrices. Making use of the quasi‐linearization technique, the underlying equations are then changed to a set of linear equations. Numerical simulations are conducted to show the reliability and use of the suggested approach when contrasted with methods from the existing literature. A comparison of several numerical techniques from the available literature is presented to show the efficacy and correctness of the suggested approach.
Hydrogen nanobubbles: A novel approach toward radio‐sensitization agents
Authors: Hashemi Samaneh , Aghamiri Seyed Mahmoud‐Reza , Siavashpour Zahra , Kahani Mahdi , Zaidi Habib , Jaberi Ramin
Published: June 2023

Background

Ocular melanoma is a rare kind of eye malignancy that threatens the patient's eyesight. Radiotherapy and surgical removal are the most commonly used therapeutic modalities, and nanomedicine has lately entered this field. Brachytherapy using Ruthenium‐106 (106Ru) ophthalmic plaques has been used for decades to treat ocular melanoma, with the applicator placed on the patient's eyes until the prescribed dose reaches the tumor apex.

Purpose

To investigate the efficiency of hydrogen nanobubbles (H2‐NBs) employment during intraocular melanoma brachytherapy using a 106Ru electron emitter plaque.

Methods

The Monte Carlo (MC) simulation and experimental investigation using a 3D‐designed phantom and thermoluminescence dosimetry (TLD) were employed. Various concentrations of H2‐NBs with a diameter of 100 nm were simulated inside tumor tissue. The results were presented as deposited energy and dose enhancement factor (DEF). An equivalent Resin phantom of the human eyeball was made using AutoCAD and 3D‐Printer technologies. The glass‐bead TLDs dosimeter were employed and placed inside the phantom.

Results

Using a 1% concentration of H2‐NBs, a DEF of 93% and 98% were achieved at the tumor apex of 10 mm from the experimental setup and MC simulation, respectively. For simulated concentrations of 0.1%, 0.3%, 0.5%, 1%, and 4% H2‐NBs, a maximum dose enhancement of 154%, 174%, 188%, 200%, and 300% were achieved, respectively, and a dose reduction was seen at about 3 mm from the plaque surface.

Conclusion

H2‐NBs can be used as an absorbed dose enhancer in 106Ru eye brachytherapy because of their unique physical characteristics. Reducing plaque implantation time on the patient's eye, reducing sclera absorbed dose, and decreasing the risk of patients’ healthy organs irradiation are reported as some of the potential benefits of using H2‐NBs.
On the passive shimming of a 7 T whole‐body MRI superconducting magnet: Implementation with minimized ferromagnetic materials usage and operable magnetic force control
Authors: Wang Wenchen , Wang Yaohui , Wang Hui , Cheng Junsheng , Qu Hongyi , Wang Cong , Niu Chaoqun , Liu Feng
Published: June 2023

Background

Magnetic field shimming of the magnet is a routine practice in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. For clinically‐used 1.5 T or 3 T MRI superconducting magnets, it is generally straightforward to achieve desired magnetic field uniformity with the passive shim technique. In comparison, superconducting shims with higher shimming efficiency are usually introduced in combination with passive shimming to satisfy the higher magnetic field uniformity requirement for ultrahigh field magnets (≥7 Tesla). However, superconducting shim usually involves a complex winding structure and low‐temperature environment, bringing considerable engineering challenges and extra costs in practice.

Purpose

In this study, we aimed to improve the passive shimming method that can incorporate the unique electromagnetic properties of ultrahigh‐field MRI magnets and is thus more effective for field corrections at 7T and above.

Methods

In this work, we propose a dedicated passive shimming strategy for a 7 T whole‐body MRI superconducting magnet. In this method, the iron usage and magnetic force due to the iron‐field interaction are strictly managed to ensure a shim tray insert is operable by manpower (without specially designed tools).

Results

To validate the proposed shimming strategy, a shimming experiment was implemented on a 7 T/800 mm superconducting magnet. Alternating with the odd and even shim trays in our two‐round operation, the magnetic field inhomogeneity was successfully corrected from 85.36 to 7.91 ppm, achieving the magnetic field quality elevation of more than one order of magnitude.

Conclusion

The experimental results indicated that the proposed electromagnetic technology is expected to be effective for developing ultrahigh‐field MRI instruments.
Informatics tools to implement late cardiovascular risk prediction modeling for population management of high‐risk childhood cancer survivors
Authors: Noyd David H. , Chen Sixia , Bailey Anna M. , Janitz Amanda E. , Baker Ashley A. , Beasley William H. , Etzold Nancy C. , Kendrick David C. , Kibbe Warren A. , Oeffinger Kevin C.
Published: June 2023

Background

Clinical informatics tools to integrate data from multiple sources have the potential to catalyze population health management of childhood cancer survivors at high risk for late heart failure through the implementation of previously validated risk calculators.

Methods

The Oklahoma cohort (n = 365) harnessed data elements from Passport for Care (PFC), and the Duke cohort (n = 274) employed informatics methods to automatically extract chemotherapy exposures from electronic health record (EHR) data for survivors 18 years old and younger at diagnosis. The Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS) late cardiovascular risk calculator was implemented, and risk groups for heart failure were compared to the Children's Oncology Group (COG) and the International Guidelines Harmonization Group (IGHG) recommendations. Analysis within the Oklahoma cohort assessed disparities in guideline‐adherent care.

Results

The Oklahoma and Duke cohorts both observed good overall concordance between the CCSS and COG risk groups for late heart failure, with weighted kappa statistics of .70 and .75, respectively. Low‐risk groups showed excellent concordance (kappa > .9). Moderate and high‐risk groups showed moderate concordance (kappa .44–.60). In the Oklahoma cohort, adolescents at diagnosis were significantly less likely to receive guideline‐adherent echocardiogram surveillance compared with survivors younger than 13 years old at diagnosis (odds ratio [OD] 0.22; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.10–0.49).

Conclusions

Clinical informatics tools represent a feasible approach to leverage discrete treatment‐related data elements from PFC or the EHR to successfully implement previously validated late cardiovascular risk prediction models on a population health level. Concordance of CCSS, COG, and IGHG risk groups using real‐world data informs current guidelines and identifies inequities in guideline‐adherent care.
The blue fluorescence luminescence properties of hyperbranched polysiloxane containing halogen atom
Authors: Jia Yuan , Ma Huan , Yang Juxiang , Ma Mingyang
Published: June 2023

In order to obtain a new class of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) polymers without common conjugated chromophores in their structures, hyperbranched polysiloxanes (HBPSi) containing halogen elements were obtained by introducing chlorine and bromine atoms into HBPSi (Cl‐HBPSi, Br‐HBPSi) through one‐step polycondensation reaction. The relationship between the chemical structure and fluorescence properties of the two types of HBPSi was studied. The results show that both Cl‐HBPSi and Br‐HBPSi prepared in this study can emit bright blue light under a UV lamp of 365 nm wavelength, and appropriate ratio of raw materials can endow the halogenated HBPSi with moderate degree of polymerization, and give it strong excitation intensity and emission intensity. Meanwhile, Br‐HBPSi exhibits a higher fluorescence intensity, which is due to the ‘heavy atom effect’ of halogen atoms. In addition, for different concentrations of tetrahydrofuran (THF) solutions with the same addition of HBPSi, the luminescence intensity increases gradually with the decrease of THF concentration. These results indicate that the emission intensity is affected by the molecular weight and concentration of polymers, and that the AIE properties of halogenated HBPSi are related to the ‘impurity atomic clusters’ formed by halogenated atoms and the hydroxyl groups formed by the heterogeneity of HBPSi. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Controlling plasma‐activated solution chemistry for targeted cancer cell death
Authors: Liu Zhijie , Tantai Xiamin , Wang Sitao , Pang Bolun , Gao Yuting , Zhang Feng , Zhao Xinyi , Xu Dehui , Soni Aswathi , Mai‐Prochnow Anne , Cullen Patrick , Zhou Renwu
Published: June 2023

Plasma‐activated solutions (PAS) are attracting attention in biomedicine, however their complexity necessitates a greater understanding of both the plasma activation process and the selected starting solution. Here, five solutions, including deionized water, saline, PB, PBS, and RPMI 1640, were treated to investigate the physicochemical properties and anticancer effects. The findings show that the different solutions largely affected the gas–liquid interaction reactions and the color penetration distribution of H2O2 and NO2−. The anticancer effects are in the order of DI > PB≈saline> PBS > RPMI 1640, attributed to the important role of H2O2 and NO2− in inactivating cancer cells. This study provides insights into designing and applying PAS in practical anticancer therapy.
Plasma‐treated liquids in medicine: Let's get chemical
Authors: Tampieri Francesco , Gorbanev Yury , Sardella Eloisa
Published: June 2023

Fundamental and applied research on plasma‐treated liquids for biomedical applications was boosted in the last few years, dictated by their advantages with respect to direct treatments. However, often, the lack of consistent analysis at a molecular level of these liquids, and of the processes used to produce them, have raised doubts of their usefulness in the clinic. The aim of this article is to critically discuss some basic aspects related to the use of plasma‐treated liquids in medicine, with a focus on their chemical composition. We analyze the main liquids used in the field, how they are affected by non‐thermal plasmas, and the possibility to replicate them without plasma treatment.
Mealybug salivary microbes inhibit induced plant defenses
Authors: Zhao Jing , Liu Yongheng , Xu Shouye , Wang Jialu , Zhang Zan , Wang Man‐Qun , Turlings Ted C. J. , Zhang Pengjun , Zhou Aiming
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Phenacoccus solenopsis is a polyphagous invasive mealybug that caused serious damage to crops worldwide. Phloem‐sucking hemipterans are known to carry symbiotic microbes in their saliva. However, the role of salivary bacteria of P. solenopsis in modulating plant defenses remains limited. Exploring the impact of salivary bacteria on plant defense responses will contribute to the development of new targets for efficient control of invasive mealybugs.

RESULTS

Salivary bacteria of the invasive mealybug P. solenopsis can suppress herbivore‐induced plant defenses and thus enhance mealybug fitness. Mealybugs treated with an antibiotic showed decreased weight gain, fecundity and survival. Untreated mealybugs suppressed jasmonic acid (JA)‐regulated defenses but activated salicylic acid (SA)‐regulated defenses in cotton plants. In contrast, antibiotic‐treated mealybugs triggered JA‐responsive gene expression and JA accumulation, and showed shortened phloem ingestion. Reinoculating antibiotic‐treated mealybugs with Enterobacteriaceae or Stenotrophomonas cultivated from mealybug saliva promoted phloem ingestion and fecundity, and restored the ability of mealybugs to suppress plant defenses. Fluorescence in situ hybridization visualization revealed that Enterobacteriaceae and Stenotrophomonas colonize salivary glands and are secreted into the mesophyll cells and phloem vessels. Exogenous application of the bacterial isolates to plant leaves inhibited JA‐responsive gene expression and activated SA‐responsive gene expression.

CONCLUSION

Our findings imply that symbiotic bacteria in the saliva of the mealybug play an important role in manipulating herbivore‐induced plant defenses, enabling this important pest to evade induced plant defenses and promoting its performance and destructive effects on crops. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
External amino acid residues of insect GABA receptor channels dictate the action of the isoxazoline ectoparasiticide fluralaner
Authors: Asahi Miho , Yamato Kohei , Ozoe Fumiyo , Ozoe Yoshihisa
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Fluralaner is the first isoxazoline ectoparasiticide developed to protect companion animals from fleas and ticks. Fluralaner primarily inhibits arthropod γ‐aminobutyric acid receptors (GABARs), which are ligand‐gated ion channels comprising five subunits arranged around the channel pore. We previously reported that the action site of fluralaner resides at the M1–M3 transmembrane interface between adjacent GABAR subunits. To investigate whether fluralaner interacts with the second transmembrane segment (M2) located deep in the interface, we generated four housefly RDL GABAR mutants with non‐conservative amino acid substitutions in the M2 region.

RESULTS

Electrophysiological analysis of GABARs expressed in Xenopus oocytes indicated that S313A and S314A mutants exhibited fluralaner sensitivities similar to that of the wild type. M312S mutant exhibited approximately seven‐fold lower sensitivity than that of the wild type. Notably, the N316L mutant was almost insensitive to fluralaner.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study indicate that the conserved external amino acid residues of insect GABAR channels play a critical role in the antagonistic effect of fluralaner. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
A sensitized variable selection control chart based on a classification algorithm for monitoring high‐dimensional processes
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Xue Li , He Zhen , Liu Yumin , Xin Zhongyuan
Published: June 2023

During the last decade, variable‐selection‐based (VS) control charts have gained much popularity for process monitoring and diagnosis. These charts have been proven efficient for the detection of sparse mean shifts in high‐dimensional processes. VS charts usually assume that in‐control (IC) data are the only information used to determine the control limits. In modern industrial processes, however, out‐of‐control (OC) data can be easily collected. Detecting a specific shift in a data‐rich environment without utilizing OC data information will limit the development of a process monitoring scheme. In this paper, a novel variable selection control chart that is combined with a classification algorithm is proposed, which is expected to benefit from both the classification and variable selection approaches. In contrast to alternative charts, the proposed sensitized variable selection chart can capture the potential shifted variables using both IC and OC information, which can improve the sensitivity of the chart in a specific direction. Extensive Monte Carlo simulations demonstrate that the proposed chart outperforms the alternatives in a data‐rich and high‐dimensional environment. A real‐life example of cellular localization is also included to support the findings of our study.
Exchange Interaction‐Driven Surface State Hybridization in Bi2Se3Topological Insulator
Authors: Kim Jonghoon , Jeong Kwangsik , Park Hanbum , Hong Seokbo , Kim Dajung , Nam Gihwan , Rho Seungwon , Shin Hee Jun , Kang Chul , Cho Mann‐Ho
Published: June 2023

Topological insulator has gapless surface state, which results from bulk band inversion due to strong spin–orbit coupling. This nontrivial topology robust to nonmagnetic disorders and defects is considered one of the biggest obstacles for modulations of the surface state. In this work, the suppression of surface properties in Bi2Se3of various thicknesses grown on antiferromagnetic NiO, which has a strong exchange interaction is investigated. Under perpendicular magnetic fields, a drastic decrease in mobilityµand in the number of phase coherent channelsαin 5 QL Bi2Se3on NiO are observed. In addition, the THz transmission study shows that an increase in the surface penetration depthξcan accelerate the hybridization of surface states, which is also verified using the optical pump THz probe. This rapid collapse of surface states indicates the unique role of antiferromagnetic materials in band overlap, suggesting that the topological surface nature can be modulated by forming an antiferromagnet‐topological insulator heterostructure.
Prominin‐1 deletion results in spermatogenic impairment, sperm morphological defects, and infertility in mice
Authors: Matsukuma Haruka , Kobayashi Yuka , Oka Shintaro , Higashijima Fumiaki , Kimura Kazuhiro , Yoshihara Erika , Sasai Noriaki , Shiraishi Koji
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Spermatogenesis is a complex process orchestrated by several essential genes. Prominin‐1 (Prom1/PROM1) is a gene that is expressed in the testis but with a poorly understood role in spermatogenesis.

Methods

We used Prom1 knockout (Prom1 KO) mice to assess the role of Prom1 in spermatogenesis. To this end, we performed immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, western blotting, β‐galactosidase staining, and apoptosis assay. Additionally, we analyzed the morphology of sperm and assessed litter sizes.

Results

We observed that PROM1 is localized to the dividing spermatocytes in seminiferous epithelial cells, sperm, and columnar epithelium in the epididymis. In the Prom1 KO testis, an aberrant increase in apoptotic cells and a decrease in proliferating seminiferous epithelial cells were observed. Cellular FLICE‐like inhibitory protein (c‐FLIP) and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) expression were also significantly decreased in Prom1 KO testis. In addition, a significantly increased number of epididymal spermatozoa with abnormal morphology and less motility was found in Prom1 KO mice.

Conclusions

PROM1 maintains spermatogenic cell proliferation and survival via c‐FLIP expression in the testis. It is also involved in sperm motility and fertilization potential. The mechanism underlying the effect of Prom1 on sperm morphology and motility remains to be identified.
Commercial drones can provide accurate and effective monitoring of the world's rarest primate
Authors: Zhang Hui , Turvey Samuel T. , Pandey Shree P. , Song Xiqiang , Sun Zhongyu , Wang Nan
Published: June 2023

The recently established Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park has designated the Hainan gibbon (Nomascus hainanus) as its flagship species, providing new hope for recovery of the last surviving population of the world's rarest primate. However, current monitoring methods are labour‐intensive and only conducted for discrete periods, meaning that detailed information is still lacking on key Hainan gibbon population parameters (such as movement patterns, sleeping site selection and home range size). Alternative monitoring techniques are therefore necessary to supplement traditional methods and provide more accurate estimates of population parameters. Here, we tested whether flying two drones (DJI MAVIC2 Enterprise Advanced), one in the understory and the other above the canopy, could provide new information on Hainan gibbon biology and ecology. During a total of 60 flights, we successfully collected clear RGB and thermal infrared footage of Hainan gibbons. These data provide new baseline information on gibbon movement within the understory and the canopy, their surface body temperatures (23.0–34.7°C), and their movement area during the survey period. The low cost of this equipment could reduce the running costs for Hainan gibbon monitoring. Although drone‐based monitoring has some limitations (e.g. monitoring efficiency could be affected by variation in forest structure and gibbon group size), this new method could complement existing monitoring approaches. Drone‐based monitoring, using multiple drones and a real‐time transmission network, could therefore contribute further towards Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park's conservation planning for this Critically Endangered primate.
Resource interdependence and successful exit: A configurational perspective on young technology firms
Authors: Pahnke Emily Cox , Sirmon David G. , Rhymer Jen , Campbell Joanna T.
Published: June 2023

Research Summary

Successful exits are important outcomes for young technology firms. Research has investigated how individual resources affect exit, but both foundational RBV scholarship and newer microfoundations work suggest the need to examine resource configurations in specific contexts. Using an abductive approach and fsQCA methodology, we explore how resource configurations affect exit in the U.S. minimally invasive medical device industry. We find no single resource is necessary or sufficient for exit. Instead, we find four unique equifinal configurations of resources that are sufficient to support exit in certain contexts. Further, these configurations are largely replicated when we distinguish specific exit modes (IPO vs. acquisition). This study advances growing conversations on the role of resource configurations in entrepreneurship with an emphasis on interdependence, complexity, and equifinality of exit.

Managerial Summary

New firms' early resource portfolios are powerful determinants of their future success. No theory exists, however, to predict if or how the combinations of these resources affect young technology ventures' abilities to achieve a successful exit—an outcome important to founders and early investors. In this study, we utilize fsQCA to explore this issue on a sample of startups in a segment of the U.S. medical device industry. We focus on configurations of technological, commercial, social, human, and financial capital as well as the external environment. Our results point to four unique paths that support successful exit. Each configuration includes multiple ingredients for success. This suggests that realizing successful exit is more complex than previously thought as several unique resource configurations support successful exit.
The impact of growth mindset training on entrepreneurial action among necessity entrepreneurs: Evidence from a randomized control trial
Authors: Morris Shad , Carlos Chad , Kistruck Geoffrey M. , Lount Robert B. , Thomas Tumsifu Elly
Published: June 2023

Research Summary

Although entrepreneurship training programs are designed to help necessity entrepreneurs acquire skills and capabilities to take entrepreneurial action, participants in these programs often fail to do so. In partnership with a local government agency, we conducted a randomized field experiment involving 165 entrepreneurs in rural Tanzania where in addition to providing technical‐skills training, approximately half of the participants also received “growth mindset” psychological training. Those who received the growth mindset training displayed more entrepreneurial action in their business than those in the control group. Importantly, higher levels of entrepreneurial self‐efficacy mediated the positive impact on entrepreneurial action displayed by participants who received the growth mindset training. We discuss how complementing traditional technical‐based training with growth mindset training can improve the efficacy of entrepreneurship training programs.

Managerial Summary

Entrepreneurship training programs often fall short in translating knowledge into action. To address this issue, we conducted an experiment with 165 entrepreneurs in rural Tanzania. All participants received technical‐skills training, but half were also exposed to “growth mindset” training. Those who received the growth mindset training displayed greater initiative in business growth. The newfound confidence and grit they gained empowered them to apply learned principles effectively, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of entrepreneurship training programs.
Family‐to‐work conflict and instigated incivility: The role of negative affect and family supportive supervisor behaviours
Authors: Rodriguez Wiston A. , Zhou Zhiqing E. , Busse Katlin , Che Xinxuan
Published: June 2023

While prior research has extensively explored outcomes of family to‐work conflict (FWC), our understanding of how FWC may impact employees' negative interpersonal behaviours at work such as workplace incivility is limited. Given the serious implications of workplace incivility, the current study seeks to understand the relationship between FWC and instigated incivility via the mediating role of negative affect. The moderating role of family supportive supervisor behaviours (FSSB) is also investigated. We collected data from 129 full‐time employees over three waves with six weeks in between. Results revealed that FWC positively predicted instigated incivility, and negative affect mediated this relationship. In addition, the positive effect of FWC on negative affect as well as the indirect effect of FWC on instigated incivility through negative affect were weaker for individuals experiencing more FSSB, suggesting that family related support from supervisors may attenuate the effect of FWC on employees' negative affect and its indirect effect on instigated incivility via negative affect. Theoretical and practical implications are also discussed.
Fugetaxis of Cell‐in‐Catalytic‐Coat Nanobiohybrids in Glucose Gradients
Authors: Rheem Hyeong Bin , Choi Hyunwoo , Yang Seoin , Han Sol , Rhee Su Yeon , Jeong Hyeongseop , Lee Kyung‐Bok , Lee Yeji , Kim In‐San , Lee Hojae , Choi Insung S.
Published: June 2023

Manipulation and control of cell chemotaxis remain an underexplored territory despite vast potential in various fields, such as cytotherapeutics, sensors, and even cell robots. Herein is achieved the chemical control over chemotactic movement and direction of Jurkat T cells, as a representative model, by the construction of cell‐in‐catalytic‐coat structures in single‐cell nanoencapsulation. Armed with the catalytic power of glucose oxidase (GOx) in the artificial coat, the nanobiohybrid cytostructures, denoted as Jurkat[Lipo_GOx], exhibit controllable, redirected chemotactic movement in response to d‐glucose gradients, in the opposite direction to the positive‐chemotaxis direction of naïve, uncoated Jurkat cells in the same gradients. The chemically endowed, reaction‐based fugetaxis of Jurkat[Lipo_GOx] operates orthogonally and complementarily to the endogenous, binding/recognition‐based chemotaxis that remains intact after the formation of a GOx coat. For instance, the chemotactic velocity of Jurkat[Lipo_GOx] can be adjusted by varying the combination of d‐glucose and natural chemokines (CXCL12 and CCL19) in the gradient. This work offers an innovative chemical tool for bioaugmenting living cells at the single‐cell level through the use of catalytic cell‐in‐coat structures.
Dual‐Defect Engineering of Bidirectional Catalyst for High‐Performing Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhou Xiaoya , Cui Yuchen , Huang Xin , Wu Xin , Sun Hao , Tang Shaochun
Published: June 2023

Practical applications of lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries have been hindered by sluggish reaction kinetics and severe capacity decay during charge‐discharge cycling due to the notorious shuttle effect of polysulfide and the unfavored deposition and dissolution of Li2S. Herein, to address these issues, a double‐defect engineering strategy is developed for preparing Co‐doped FeP catalyst containing P vacancies on MXene, which effectively improves the bidirectional redox of Li2S. Mechanism analysis indicates that P vacancy accelerates Li2S nucleation via increased unsaturated sites, and Co doping generates local electric field to reduce the reaction energy barrier and accelerate Li2S dissolution. MXene provides highly conductive channels for electron transport, and effectively captures polysulfide. The double‐defect catalyst enables an impressive reversible specific capacity of 1297.9 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C, and excellent rate capability of 726.5 mAh g−1 at 4 C. Remarkably, it demonstrates excellent cycling stability with capacity retention of 533.3 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 2 C. The results can unlock the double‐defect engineering of vacancy induction and heteroatomic doping towards practical Li‐S batteries.
Low‐Temperature Fabrication of Bulk‐Type All‐Solid‐State Lithium‐Ion Battery Utilizing Nanosized Garnet Solid Electrolytes
Authors: Akimoto Junji , Akao Tadayoshi , Kataoka Kunimitsu
Published: June 2023

Garnet‐type Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZ) materials are attracting attention as solid electrolytes (SEs) in oxide‐based all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) owing to their high ionic conductivity. Although the electrochemical stability of LLZ against Li metal is demonstrated with possible high energy density, high‐temperature sintering above 1000 °C, which is required to achieve high Li‐ion conductivity, results in the formation of insulating impurities at the electrode–electrolyte interfaces. Here, nanosized fine‐particle samples of Ta‐substituted Li6.5La3Zr1.5Ta0.5O12 (LLZT) are successfully prepared at a remarkably low temperature of 400 °C utilizing an amorphous precursor oxide. The dense LLZT SE sintered by hot pressing at 500 °C shows room‐temperature Li‐ion conductivity of 1.03 × 10−4 S cm−1 without any additives. In addition, the bulk‐type NCM–graphite full battery cell fabricated with the LLZT fine particles through a hot‐pressing sintering method at 550 °C exhibits a good charge–discharge performance at room temperature with the bulk‐type areal discharge capacity of 0.831 mAh cm−2. The nanosized garnet SE strategy demonstrated in this study paves the way for the formation of oxide‐based ASSBs by low‐temperature sintering.
A Highly Transparent Photo‐Electro‐Thermal Film with Broadband Selectivity for All‐Day Anti‐/De‐Icing
Authors: Lin Chongjia , Ma Wei , Zhang Yinglun , LAW Man‐Kwan , Li Cruz Y. , Li Yang , Chen Zengshun , Li Keqiao , Li Meng , Zheng Jiongzhi , Fu Yunfei , Yan Xiao , Chi Cheng , Yang Jinglei , Li Weihong , Yao Shuhuai , Huang Baoling
Published: June 2023

A photo‐ and electro‐thermal film can convert sunlight and electricity into heat to solve icing problems. Combination of them provides an efficient strategy for all‐day anti‐/de‐icing. However, only opaque surfaces have been reported, due to the mutual exclusiveness between photon absorption and transmission. Herein, a highly transparent and scalable solution‐processed photo‐electro‐thermal film is reported, which exhibits an ultra‐broadband selective spectrum to separate the visible light from sunlight and a countertrend suppress of emission in longer wavelength. It absorbs ≈ 85% of invisible sunlight (ultraviolet and near‐infrared) for light‐heat conversion, meanwhile maintains luminous transmittance > 70%. The reflection of mid‐infrared leads to low emissivity (0.41), which further preserves heat on the surface for anti‐/de‐icing purpose. This ultra‐broadband selectivity enables temperature elevation > 40 °C under 1‐sun illumination and the mutual support between photo‐thermal and electro‐thermal effects contributes to > 50% saving of electrical consumption under weak solar exposure (0.4‐sun) for maintaining unfrozen surfaces at −35 °C environment. The reverberation from photo‐electro‐thermal and super‐hydrophobic effects illustrates a lubricating removal of grown ice in short time (< 120 s). The self‐cleaning ability and the durability under mechanical, electrical, optical, and thermal stresses render the film stable for long‐term usage in all‐day anti‐/de‐icing applications.
Giant Energy Storage Density with Antiferroelectric‐Like Properties in BNT‐Based Ceramics via Phase Structure Engineering
Authors: Tang Luomeng , Yu Ziyi , Pan Zhongbin , Zhao Jinghao , Fu Zhenqian , Chen Xiqi , Li Huanhuan , Li Peng , Liu Jinjun , Zhai Jiwei
Published: June 2023

Driven by the information industry, advanced electronic devices require dielectric materials which combine both excellent energy storage properties and high temperature stability. These requirements hold the most promise for ceramic capacitors. Among these, the modulated Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 (BNT)‐based ceramics can demonstrate favorable energy storage properties with antiferroelectric‐like properties, simultaneously, attaching superior temperature stability resulted from the high Curie temperature. Inspired by the above properties, a strategy is proposed to modulate antiferroelectric‐like properties via introducing Ca0.7La0.2TiO3 (CLT) into Bi0.395Na0.325Sr0.245TiO3 (BNST) ((1−x)BNST‐xCLT, x = 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25). Combining both orthorhombic phase and defect dipole designs successfully achieve antiferroelectric‐like properties in BNST‐CLT ceramics. The results illustrate that 0.8BNST‐0.2CLT presents superior recoverable energy storage density ≈8.3 J cm−3 with the ideal η ≈ 80% at 660 kV cm−1. Structural characterizations demonstrate that there is the intermediate modulated phase with the coexistence of the antiferroelectric and ferroelectric phases. In addition, in situ temperature measurements prove that BNST‐CLT ceramics exhibit favorable temperature stability over a wide temperature range. The present work illustrates that BNT‐based ceramics with antiferroelectric‐like properties can effectively enhance the energy storage performance, which provides novel perspectives for the subsequent development of advanced pulsed capacitors.