bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Core‐Shell Nanospheres with Controllable Zinc Ion Release for Time‐Sensitive Steganography
Authors: Fan Qingsong , Lu Yu , Xu Shiyou , Xu Guofeng , Cai Zepeng , Feng Ji , Wu Chaolumen , Brinzari Tatiana V. , Pan Long , Yin Yadong
Published: May 2023

Slow‐release platforms have attracted much attention due to their many applications, such as biomedical implants, plant fertilizers, and drug delivery systems. In this work, a green, cost‐effective, and scalable method is reported to synthesize colloidal hybrid nanospheres capable of releasing zinc ions in a highly controllable manner by encapsulating zinc ammonium citrate colloids with a layer of silica. The release rate of zinc ions from resulting core‐shell nanospheres can be conveniently tuned by changing the shell thickness and cross‐linking degree of the silica layer, the solvent composition, and the surrounding temperature. By integrating the temperature‐sensitive release behavior of the hybrid nanospheres, the color shift associated with the complexation of zinc ions with xylenol orange, and the photothermal conversion property of gold nanoparticles, a novel film capable of recording time‐sensitive color information is designed using direct laser writing and further demonstrated its application in steganography.
Superradiance Emission and Its Thermal Decoherence in Lead Halide Perovskites Superlattices
Authors: Pashaei Adl Hamid , Gorji Setatira , Muñoz‐Matutano Guillermo , Gualdrón‐Reyes Andrés F. , Suárez Isaac , Chirvony Vladimir S. , Mora‐Seró Iván , Martínez‐Pastor Juan P.
Published: May 2023

Self‐assembled nanocrystals (NCs) into superlattices (SLs) are alternative materials to polycrystalline films and single crystals, which can behave very differently from their constituents, especially when they interact coherently with each other. This work concentrates on the Superradiance (SR) emission observed in SLs formed by CsPbBr3 and CsPbBrI2 NCs. Micro‐Photoluminescence spectra and transients in the temperature range 4–100 K are measured in SLs to extract information about the SR states and uncoupled domains of NCs. For CsPbBr3 SLs with mostly homogeneous SR lines (linewidth 1–5 meV), this work measures lifetimes as short as 160 ps, 10 times lower than the value measured in a thin film made with the same NCs, which is due to domains of near identical NCs formed by 1000 to 40 000 NCs coupled by dipole–dipole interaction. The thermal decoherence of the SR exciton state is evident above 25 K due to its coupling with an effective phonon energy of ≈8 meV. These findings are an important step toward understanding the SR emission enhancement factor and the thermal dephasing process in perovskite SLs.
Single Mode Lasing from CsPbBr3 Microcrystals Fabricated by Solid State Space‐Confined Growth
Authors: Cheng Shijia , Qiao Zhen , Wang Zeng , Xiao Lian , Das Subhasis , Thung Yi Tian , Yuan Zhiyi , Ta Van Duong , Fan Weijun , Chen Yu‐Cheng , Sun Handong
Published: May 2023

All‐inorganic metal halide perovskites, such as CsPbX3 (X = Br, Cl, or I), have attracted significant interest for a new generation of integrated, high‐performance optoelectronic devices. To realize the full potential of layer‐by‐layer devices, perovskite crystal thin films are preferred over crystal ingots, considering carrier loss during carrier transport. The space‐confined method is a facile way of fabricating perovskite crystal films in a geometrically confined space to break the isotropic growth. Many researchers have reported effective preparation of large‐area perovskite films using this method. However, most space‐confined methods require growth in a liquid phase (solution), which can cause uncontrollable nucleation, surface traps, and unsatisfactory device performance. In this work, a pure solid‐state space‐confined strategy to grow CsPbBr3 films for the first time without relying on solution conditions is developed. The regular shapes of CsPbBr3 films prepared by this solid‐state space‐confined strategy can function as effective multimode and single‐mode Fabry–Perot (F–P) microlasers under optical pumping. This work overcomes the challenge that the conventional space‐confined method can only be adapted to the liquid phase. It also opens a new approach for making high‐quality microlasers, which are significant for photonic integrated circuits and optoelectronic devices.
Ultrathin WS2 Polariton Waveguide for Efficient Light Guiding
Authors: Lee Seong Won , Lee Jong Seok , Choi Woo Hun , Gong Su‐Hyun
Published: May 2023

Light confinement to sub‐wavelength scales is actively studied for nanophotonic applications because it gives rise to intriguing optical properties with enhanced light‐matter interaction. Herein, an ultrathin exciton–polariton waveguide based on a WS2 multilayer is proposed for sub‐wavelength light guiding. A WS2 waveguide supports guided exciton–polariton modes even with a few tens of nanometers of thickness. It is theoretically confirmed that the WS2 waveguide has significantly lower propagation loss than a plasmonic mode, although its thickness may be similar to that of a plasmonic waveguide. By injecting white light into a fabricated WS2 waveguide, light guiding is experimentally demonstrated through a 20 nm thick WS2 waveguide. Notably, this study integrated the WS2 waveguide with a WSe2 monolayer to demonstrate the coupling of monolayer emission to the polariton waveguide. The results suggest that WS2 multilayers provide a novel material platform with potential for nanophotonic applications, including ultrathin optical integrated circuits.
Strong Coupling of Self‐Trapped Excitons to Acoustic Phonons in Bismuth Perovskite Cs3Bi2I9
Authors: He Xing , Tailor Naveen Kumar , Satapathi Soumitra , Brgoch Jakoah , Yang Ding‐Shyue
Published: May 2023

To assess the potential optoelectronic applications of metal‐halide perovskites, it is critical to have a detailed understanding of the nature and dynamics of interactions between carriers and the polar lattices. Here, the electronic and structural dynamics of bismuth‐based perovskite Cs3Bi2I9 are revealed by transient reflectivity and ultrafast electron diffraction. A cross‐examination of these results combined with theoretical analyses allows the identification of the major carrier–phonon coupling mechanism and the associated time scales. It is found that carriers photoinjected into Cs3Bi2I9 form self‐trapped excitons on an ultrafast time scale. However, they retain most of their energy, and their coupling to Fröhlich‐type optical phonons is limited at early times. Instead, the long‐lived excitons exert an electronic stress via deformation potential and develop a prominent, sustaining strain field as coherent acoustic phonons in 10 ps. From sub‐ps to ns and beyond, a similar extent of the atomic displacements is found throughout the different stages of structural distortions, from limited local modulations to a coherent strain field to the Debye–Waller random atomic motions on longer times. The current results suggest the potential use of bismuth‐based perovskites for applications other than photovoltaics to take advantage of the carriers’ stronger self‐trapping and long lifetimes.
Plasmonic Nanostructure Lattices for High‐Performance Sensing
Authors: Wen Xinyu , Deng Shikai
Published: May 2023

Plasmonic nanostructures show great promise for sensing because their nanoscale confined light fields are sensitive to the change in the surroundings. Conventional plasmonic sensors based on surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) and localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs) have inspired considerable progress in sensing but still suffer from an oblique incidence or moderate sensitivity. This review focuses on how the rational design of novel plasmonic nanostructures can enable high‐performance sensing. Patterned nanostructures such as nanoparticle (NP) lattices to support surface lattice resonances (SLRs) and plasmonic nanogaps with nanogap modes are emerging to overcome the sensing limitations of SPP and LSPR. Moreover, hybrid nanostructures of plasmonic components with functional materials, such as metal‐organic frameworks, 2D materials, oxides, and polymers, show opportunities to further improve sensitivity and selectivity. In addition, plasmonic nanolasing and resonance modes from new materials exhibit appealing features for sensing. It is expected that further studies on plasmonic nanostructures with low‐loss materials, chirality characteristics, novel devices, and advanced fabrications will provide outlooks for high‐performance sensing.
Plasmonic Photochemistry as a Tool to Prepare Metallic Nanopores with Controlled Diameter for Optimized Detection of Single Entities
Authors: Lanzavecchia German , Kuttruff Joel , Doricchi Andrea , Douaki Ali , Kumaranchira Ramankutty Krishnadas , García Isabel , Lin Lyuye , Viejo Rodríguez Alba , Wågberg Thomas , Krahne Roman , Maccaferri Nicolò , Garoli Denis
Published: May 2023

Plasmonic solid‐state nanopores with tunable hole diameters can be prepared via a photocatalytic effect resulting from the enhanced electromagnetic (EM) field inside a metallic ring on top of a dielectric nanotube. Under white light illumination, the plasmon‐enhanced EM‐field induces a site‐selective metal nucleation and growth within the ring. This approach is used to prepare Au and bimetallic Au–Ag nano‐rings and demonstrate the reduction of the initial inner diameter of the nanopore down to 4 nm. The tunability of the nanopore diameter can be used to enable optimized detection of single entities with different sizes. As a proof‐of‐concept, single object detection of double stranded DNA (dsDNA) and Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) with a diameter down to 15 nm is performed. Numerical simulations provide insights into the EM‐field distribution and confinement, showing that a field intensity enhancement of up to 104 can be achieved inside the nanopores. This localized EM‐field can be used to perform enhanced optical measurements and generate local heating, thereby modifying the properties of the nanopore. Such a flexible approach also represents a valuable tool to investigate plasmon‐driven photochemical reactions, and it can represent an important step toward the realization of new plasmonic devices.
Electron Donor‐Acceptor Complex Initiated Photochemical Phosphorus Arylation with Diaryliodonium Salts toward the Synthesis of Phosphine Oxides
Authors: Bugaenko Dmitry I. , Karchava Alexander V.
Published: May 2023

Arylation of amino‐, diamino‐ and triaminophosphines with aryl(mesityl)iodonium triflates under blue light irradiation followed by oxidative P−N bond cleavage in the in situ generated amino phosphonium salts under hydrolytic conditions represent a method for the synthesis of substituted arylphosphine oxides, arylphosphinic and arylphosphonic amides respectively. The proposed approach is based on using visible light as the only promoter for the C−P bond formation, accommodates a variety of functional groups, and can be applied to the late‐stage C−H functionalization of drug molecules.
Mesoporous Carbon Nitrides as Emerging Materials: Nanoarchitectonics and Biosensing Applications
Authors: Patel Vaishwik , Baskar Arun , Tiburcius Steffi , Morrison Brodie , Mod Bhavya , Tanwar Pradeep S. , Kumar Prashant , Karakoti Ajay , Singh Gurwinder , Vinu Ajayan
Published: May 2023

Mesoporous carbon nitrides (MCNs) are versatile materials and find use in applications such as catalysis, gas capture, and remediation. The development of new forms of MCNs, such as C3N5, C3N6, and C3N7, has expanded their scope further. One of the least reviewed applications of these materials is in the field of sensing, though it has been demonstrated that their sensing abilities are on par with other comparable materials. Their excellent properties such as high surface area, tunable stoichiometry, adjustable electronic structure, and basicity, make them well‐suited for the adsorption and detection of a wide range of analytes. Herein, the new findings in the synthesis of MCNs and their exciting prospects for sensing are reviewed. The review is divided into two broad sections: 1) discussions on the synthesis of MCNs using hard/soft templating, sol–gel, and template‐free methods; and 2) their capabilities for photoelectrochemical, optical, and quartz microbalance‐based sensing. The findings from the recent literature are showcased and the covered topics are explained with comparative analyses. The current review is a timely presentation of the concerned topic and will serve as a useful piece of information for developing advanced sensors using MCN based materials.
Calcium Metal Batteries with Long Cycle Life Using a Hydride‐Based Electrolyte and Copper Sulfide Electrode
Authors: Kisu Kazuaki , Mohtadi Rana , Orimo Shin‐ichi
Published: May 2023

As potential alternatives to Li‐ion batteries, rechargeable Ca metal batteries offer advantageous features such as high energy density, cost‐effectiveness, and natural elemental abundance. However, challenges, such as Ca metal passivation by electrolytes and a lack of cathode materials with efficient Ca2+storage capabilities, impede the development of practical Ca metal batteries. To overcome these limitations, the applicability of a CuS cathode in Ca metal batteries and its electrochemical properties are verified herein. Ex situ spectroscopy and electron microscopy results show that a CuS cathode comprising nanoparticles that are well dispersed in a high‐surface‐area carbon matrix can serve as an effective cathode for Ca2+storage via the conversion reaction. This optimally functioning cathode is coupled with a tailored, weakly coordinating monocarborane‐anion electrolyte, namely, Ca(CB11H12)2in 1,2‐dimethoxyethane/tetrahydrofuran, which enables reversible Ca plating/stripping at room temperature. The combination affords a Ca metal battery with a long cycle life of over 500 cycles and capacity retention of 92% based on the capacity of the 10th cycle. This study confirms the feasibility of the long‐term operation of Ca metal anodes and can expedite the development of Ca metal batteries.
Sensitivity and specificity of conventional and new face validation in determining the incomprehensible items by older people: Empirical evidence of testing 106 quality‐of‐life items
Authors: Lam Simon Ching , Suen Lorna Kwai Ping , Huang Emma Yun‐Zhi , Wong Eliza Mi Ling , Cheung Daphne Sze Ki , Kwan Rick Yiu Cho
Published: May 2023

Objective

This methodological research aimed to investigate and compare the sensitivity and specificity of conventional and new face validation in identifying incomprehensible items empirically.

Methods

A purposive sample of 15 older people living in three residential care homes (RCHs) in Hong Kong was used to evaluate a newly developed 106 items covering seven quality‐of‐life dimensions. The abbreviated Mental Test (Hong Kong version; AMT) was used as a screening tool for excluding those with impaired cognition. The interview was audiotaped, and incomprehensible items were identified by the research panel accordingly (served as the gold standard). The socio‐demographics of the respondents were described. Understandability (yes/no, conventional face validation method) and interpretability (4‐point Likert scale, new method) were compared and used to compute the Kappa value (representing chance agreement), sensitivity, and specificity analysis.

Results

Fifteen older people were interviewed and responded to the structured interview of 106 items regarding understandability and interpretability. 61 items (57%) obtained 100% positive understandability while only 35 items (33%) obtained 100% correct interpretability.

The Kappa coefficient was 0.388 (P < 0.001) of the chance agreement between understandability and interpretability. The panel confirmed that 32% of items required revision (i.e., incomprehensible items). The false negative rate of using the conventional approach was up to 70.59% while both the false positive and negative rates of using the new approach were low (0%–5.88%).

Conclusion

This empirical evidence indicated that the conventional approach of face validation for checking incomprehensible items by older people encountered a high false negative rate. On the contrary, the new approach was recommended because it demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity and low false positive and negative rates in identifying incomprehensible items.
Expanding the phenotype and genotype in Thauvin‐Robinet‐Faivre syndrome: A new patient with a novel variant and additional clinical findings
Authors: Duzenli Tarik , Sezer Abdullah , Kayhan Gulsum , Arslan Ayse Tana , Percin Ferda E.
Published: May 2023

Thauvin‐Robinet‐Faivre syndrome (TROFAS; OMIM #617107) is a rare autosomal recessive overgrowth syndrome characterized by generalized overgrowth, dysmorphic facial features, and delayed psychomotor development caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in the FGF‐1 intracellular binding protein (FIBP) gene. To date, only four patients from two families have been reported. In this report, we present a 4‐year‐old male patient with generalized overgrowth and delayed developmental milestones consistent with this syndrome. In addition, he has unique features that were not reported in previous patients, including drooling, recurrent pulmonary infections, chronic pulmonary disease, hyperextensible elbow joints, hypoplastic nipples, unilateral cryptorchidism, and frequent spontaneous erections. We identified a homozygous, likely pathogenic variant, c.415_416insCAGTTTG (p.Asp139AlafsTer3), which causes a frameshift in the FIBP. Additionally, we identified a homozygous missense variant in the Toll‐like receptor 5(TLR5) gene and a hemizygous missense variant in the chloride voltage‐gated channel 4 (CLCN4) gene, with uncertain significance in either case. In this article, we set out the new observations and also discuss the frequency of the characteristic findings of the syndrome in the patients so far reported.
Multifocal heterotopic ossification in a man with germline variants of LIM Mineralization Protein‐1 (LMP‐1)
Authors: Sangadala Sreedhara , Shore Eileen M. , Xu Meiqi , Bergwitz Clemens , Lozano‐Calderon Santiago A. , Lin Angela E. , Boden Scott D. , Kaplan Frederick S.
Published: May 2023

A 54‐year‐old man with a history of unimelic, post‐traumatic multifocal heterotopic ossification (HO) and normal genetic analysis of ACVR1 and GNAS had variants of unknown significance (VUS) in PDLIM‐7 (PDZ and LIM Domain Protein 7), the gene encoding LMP‐1 (LIM Mineralization Protein‐1), an intracellular protein involved in the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) pathway signaling and ossification. In order to determine if the LMP‐1 variants were plausibly responsible for the phenotype observed, a series of in vitro experiments were conducted. C2C12 cells were co‐transfected with a BMP‐responsive reporter as well as the LMP‐1 wildtype (wt) construct or the LMP‐1T161I or the LMP‐1D181G constructs (herein designated as LMP‐161 or LMP‐181) corresponding to the coding variants detected in the patient. A significantly increased BMP‐reporter activity was observed in LMP‐161 or LMP‐181 transfected cells compared to the wt cells. The LMP‐181 variant exhibited BMP‐reporter activity with a four‐fold increase over the LMP‐1 wt protein. Similarly, mouse pre‐osteoblastic MC3T3 cells transfected with the patient's LMP‐1 variants expressed higher levels of osteoblast markers both at mRNA and protein levels and preferentially mineralized when stimulated with recombinant BMP‐2 compared to control cells. Presently, there are no pathogenic variants of LMP‐1 known to induce HO in humans. Our findings suggest that the germline variants in LMP‐1 detected in our patient are plausibly related to his multifocal HO (LMP1‐related multifocal HO). Further observations will be required to firmly establish this gene–disease relationship.
About Perfluoropolyhedranes, Their Electron‐Accepting Ability and Questionable Supramolecular Hosting Capacity
Authors: Krafft Marie Pierre , Riess Jean G.
Published: May 2023

Polyhedral molecules are appealing for their eye‐catching architecture and distinctive chemistry. Perfluorination of such, often greatly strained, compounds is a momentous challenge. It drastically changes the electron distribution, structure and properties. Notably, small high‐symmetry perfluoropolyhedranes feature a centrally located, star‐shaped low‐energy unoccupied molecular orbital that can host an extra electron within the polyhedral frame, thus producing a radical anion, without loss of symmetry. This predicted electron‐hosting capacity was definitively established for perfluorocubane, the first perfluorinated Platonic polyhedrane to be isolated pure. Hosting atoms, molecules, or ions in such “cage” structures is, however, all but forthright, if not illusionary, offering no easy access to supramolecular constructs. While adamantane and cubane have fostered numerous applications in materials science, medicine, and biology, specific uses for their perfluorinated counterparts remain to be established. Some aspects of highly fluorinated carbon allotropes, such as fullerenes and graphite, are briefly mentioned for context.
Customizable Supraparticles Constructed from Catechol‐Terminated Molecular Building Blocks with Controllable Intermolecular Interactions**
Authors: Zhang Yajing , Wang Jin , He Yunxiang , Pan Jiezhou , Jin Xin , Shang Jiaojiao , Gong Guidong , Richardson Joseph J. , Manners Ian , Guo Junling
Published: May 2023

Colloidal supraparticles integrated with multicomponent primary particles come with emerging or synergetic functionalities. However, achieving the functional customization of supraparticles remains a great challenge because of the limited options of building blocks with tailorability and functional extensibility. Herein, we developed a universal approach to construct customizable supraparticles with desired properties from molecular building blocks obtained by the covalent conjugation of catechol groups with a series of orthogonal functional groups. These catechol‐terminated molecular building blocks can assemble into primary particles driven by various intermolecular interactions (i.e. metal‐organic coordination, host–guest, and hydrophobic interactions), and then further assemble into supraparticles governed by catechol‐mediated interfacial interactions. Our strategy enables the formation of supraparticles with diverse functionalities, such as dual‐pH responsiveness, light‐controllable permeability, and non‐invasive fluorescence labeling of living cells. The ease with which these supraparticles can be fabricated, and the ability to tailor their chemical and physical properties through the choice of metals and orthogonal functional groups used, should enable a variety of applications.
Manipulating Electron‐Transfer Events in [Fe4Co4] Cubes via a Mixed‐Ligand Approach: The Impact of Elastic Frustration
Authors: Chen Zi‐Yi , Liu Qi , Cheng Yue , Deng Yi‐Fei , Liu Shihao , Wang Xin‐Yi , Zhang Yuan‐Zhu
Published: May 2023

The engineering of intermolecular interaction is challenging but critical for magnetically switchable molecules. Here, we prepared two cyanide‐bridged [Fe4Co4] cube complexes via the alkynyl‐ and alcohol‐functionalized trispyrazoyl capping ligands. The alkynyl‐functionalized complex 1 exhibited a thermally‐induced incomplete metal‐to‐metal electron transfer (MMET) behaviour at around 220 K, while the mixed alkynyl/alcohol‐functionalized cube of 2 showed a complete and abrupt MMET behaviour at 232 K. Remarkably, both compounds showed a long‐lived photo‐induced metastable state up to 200 K. The crystallographic study demonstrated that the incomplete transition of 1 was likely due to the possible elastic frustration originating from the competition between the anion‐propagated elastic interactions and inter‐cluster alkynyl‐alkynyl & CH‐alkynyl interactions, whereas the latter are eliminated in 2 as a result of the partial substitution by the alcohol‐functionalized ligand. Additionally, the introduction of chemically distinguishable cobalt centers within the cube unit of 2 did not lead to a two‐step but a one‐step transition, possibly because of the strong ferroelastic intramolecular interaction through the cyanide bridges.
Development of Tough Thermoplastic Elastomers by Leveraging Rigid–Flexible Supramolecular Segment Interplays
Authors: Wang Luping , Guo Longfei , Zhang Kaiqiang , Xia Yuguo , Hao Jingcheng , Wang Xu
Published: May 2023

Supramolecular interactions facilitate the development of tough multifunctional thermoplastic elastomers. However, the fundamental principles that govern supramolecular toughening are barely understood, and the rational design to achieve the desired high toughness remains daunting. Herein, we report a simple and robust method for toughening thermoplastic elastomers by rationally tailoring hard–soft phase separation structures containing rigid and flexible supramolecular segments. The introduced functional segments with distinct structural rigidities provide mismatched supramolecular interactions to efficiently tune the energy dissipation and bear an external load. The optimal supramolecular elastomer containing aromatic amide and acylsemicarbazide moieties demonstrates a record toughness (1.2 GJ m−3), extraordinary crack tolerance (fracture energy 282.5 kJ m−2), an ultrahigh true stress at break (2.3 GPa), good elasticity, healing ability, recyclability, and impact resistance. The toughening mechanism is validated by testing various elastomers, confirming the potential for designing and developing super‐tough supramolecular materials with promising applications in aerospace and electronics.
Sandwich‐Kernelled AgCu Nanoclusters with Golden Ratio Geometry and Promising Photothermal Efficiency
Authors: Fang Liang , Fan Wentao , Bian Guoqing , Wang Runguo , You Qing , Gu Wanmiao , Xia Nan , Liao Lingwen , Li Jin , Deng Haiteng , Yan Nan , Wu Zhikun
Published: May 2023

Metal nanoclusters have recently attracted extensive interest from the scientific community. However, unlike carbon‐based materials and metal nanocrystals, they rarely exhibit a sheet kernel structure, probably owing to the instability caused by the high exposure of metal atoms (particularly in the relatively less noble Ag or Cu nanoclusters) in such a structure. Herein, we synthesized a novel AgCu nanocluster with a sandwich‐like kernel (diameter≈0.9 nm and length≈0.25 nm) by introducing the furfuryl mercaptan ligand (FUR) and the alloying strategy. Interestingly, the kernel consists of a centered silver atom and two planar Ag10 pentacle units with completely mirrored symmetry after a rotation of 36 degrees. The two Ag10 pentacles and some extended structures show an unreported golden ratio geometry, and the two inner five‐membered rings and the centered Ag atom form an unanticipated full‐metal ferrocene‐like structure. The featured kernel structure causes the dominant radial direction transition of excitation electrons, as determined via time‐dependent density functional theory calculations, which affords the protruding absorption at 612 nm and contributes to the promising photothermal conversion efficiency of 67.6 % of the as‐obtained nanocluster, having important implications for structure‐property correlation and the development of nanocluser‐based photothermal materials.
Influences of probe shape and surface roughness on tack properties measured by the probe tack test and characterization of crosslinked polyacrylic pressure‐sensitive adhesives
Authors: Nakamura Yoshinobu , Kishimoto Risa , Nishi Hiroki , Uchimura Natsuki , Yoden Hiroyuki , Hikasa Shigeki , Iwata Hideki , Urahama Yoshiaki , Hirai Tomoyasu , Fujii Syuji
Published: May 2023

For a probe tack test for a pressure‐sensitive adhesive (PSA) under the conditions of light contact pressure and short contact time, probes with shapes and surface roughnesses suitable to achieve better wettability were investigated. A smooth, polished probe that became slightly convex at its center was found to be superior to flat‐ended. High surface roughness decreased tack. Debonding observations showed that fibrillation started from the probe edge and extended to the center. The fibril grew, without peeling, until the peak of the force–displacement curve was reached. After the peak, the fibril growth and peeling advanced simultaneously. The fibrillation was important to tack development. The test conditions necessary to observe the deformation behavior of PSA tape with sufficient interfacial adhesion were investigated. The system was preheated at 60°C for 1 h after the probe and PSA tape contacted each other, and was then cooled. The PSA performance of crosslinked random copolymers poly(n‐butyl acrylate‐acrylic acid) (A) and poly(2‐ethylhexyl acrylate‐acrylic acid) (B) were compared. A shoulder formed by fibrillation after the peak in the force–displacement curve was observed only for B. Copolymer B exhibited better interfacial adhesion and deformability. The preheating method was found to be useful for characterizing PSAs.
Flame‐resistant and tough polyvinyl alcohol film with ultraviolet‐absorbing capacity
Authors: Wang Chenlin , Zhang Zhihao , Ma Zhongying , Zhou Zhenzhu , Huang Junchao , Wang Yuhua
Published: May 2023

Fireproofing the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) membrane is an essential and urgent reinforcement to ease the restriction in flame‐resistant requirements. The traditional method by the physical and heterogenous introduction of a large number of metal hydroxides, halogenated and organic compounds efficiently enhance the flame‐retardancy but severely weakens the biocompatibility, mechanical strength, and transparency of PVA membranes. In this work, two bio‐extracted compounds, phytic acid (PA) and creatine (CR) are employed to construct a fireproof, tough and transparent PVA membrane. The LOI of the PVA/PACR membrane increases from 18% to 30% and reaches a V–0 grade in UL‐94 testing. Meanwhile, the mechanical strength receives 20% reinforcement due to a chemical crosslinking between PVA, PA, and CR. Intriguingly, unsaturated chemical bonds from PA and CR endow a favorable UV‐absorbing capacity to the PVA membrane, which will benefit the anti‐aging and food freshness retaining demands in advanced packaging applications.
Body Mass Index and the Risk of Rheumatic Disease: Linear and Nonlinear Mendelian Randomization Analyses
Authors: Karlsson Torgny , Hadizadeh Fatemeh , Rask‐Andersen Mathias , Johansson Åsa , Ek Weronica E.
Published: May 2023

Objective

Although the association between obesity and risk of rheumatic disease is well established, the precise causal relation has not been conclusively proven. Here, we estimate the causal effect of body mass index (BMI) on the risk of developing 5 different rheumatic diseases.

Methods

Linear and nonlinear mendelian randomization (MR) were used to estimate the effect of BMI on risk of rheumatic disease, and sex‐specific effects were identified. Analyses were performed in 361,952 participants from the UK Biobank cohort for 5 rheumatic diseases: rheumatoid arthritis (n = 8,381 cases), osteoarthritis (n = 87,430), psoriatic arthropathy (n = 933), gout (n = 13,638), and inflammatory spondylitis (n = 4,328).

Results

Using linear MR, we found that 1 SD increase in BMI increases the incidence rate for rheumatoid arthritis (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 1.52 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.36–1.69]), osteoarthritis (IRR 1.49 [95% CI 1.43–1.55]), psoriatic arthropathy (IRR 1.80 [95% CI 1.31–2.48]), gout (IRR 1.73 [95% CI 1.56–1.92]), and inflammatory spondylitis (IRR 1.34 [95% CI 1.14–1.57]) in all individuals. BMI was found to be a stronger risk factor in women compared to men for psoriatic arthropathy (P for sex interaction = 3.3 × 10−4) and gout (P for sex interaction = 4.3 × 10−3), and the effect on osteoarthritis was stronger in premenopausal compared to postmenopausal women (P = 1.8 × 10−3). Nonlinear effects of BMI were identified for osteoarthritis and gout in men, and for gout in women. The nonlinearity for gout was also more extreme in men compared to women (P = 0.03).

Conclusion

Higher BMI causes an increased risk for rheumatic disease, an effect that is more pronounced in women for both gout and psoriatic arthropathy. The novel sex‐ and BMI‐specific causal effects identified here provide further insight into rheumatic disease etiology and mark an important step toward personalized medicine.
A putative adverse outcome network for neonatal mortality and lower birth weight in rodents: Applicability to per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances and relevance to human health
Authors: Rogers John M. , Heintz Melissa M. , Thompson Chad M. , Haws Laurie C.
Published: May 2023

Background

Some per‐ and poly‐fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) cause neonatal mortality and lower birth weight in rodents. We constructed an Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) network for neonatal mortality and lower birth weight in rodents, comprising three putative AOPs. We then assessed strengths of the evidence for the AOPs and applicability to PFAS. Finally, we considered the relevance of this AOP network to human health.

Methods

Literature searches targeted PFAS, peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) agonists, other nuclear receptors, relevant tissues, and developmental targets. We used reviews of established biology and described results of studies with prenatal PFAS exposure that assessed birth weight and neonatal survival. Molecular initiating events (MIEs) and key events (KEs) were proposed and strengths of KE relationships (KERs), applicability to PFAS, and human relevance were assessed.

Results

Neonatal mortality has been observed in rodents following gestational exposure to most longer chain PFAS studied, often coincident with lower birth weight. In AOP 1, PPARα activation and PPARγ activation or downregulation are MIEs; placental insufficiency, fetal nutrient restriction, neonatal hepatic glycogen deficit, and hypoglycemia are KEs leading to neonatal mortality and lower birth weight. In AOP 2, constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) and pregnane X receptor (PXR) activation upregulates Phase II metabolism, lowering maternal circulating thyroid hormones. In AOP 3, disrupted pulmonary surfactant function and PPARγ downregulation cause neonatal airway collapse and mortality from respiratory failure.

Conclusions

It is likely that different components of this AOP network will apply to different PFAS, largely determined by which nuclear receptors they activate. The MIEs and KEs in this AOP network can occur in humans, but differences in PPAR structure and function, and the timeline of liver and lung development, suggest that humans may be less susceptible to this AOP network. This putative AOP network elucidates knowledge gaps and research needed to better understand the developmental toxicity of PFAS.
Predictive scaling of fiber‐based protein A capture chromatography using mechanistic modeling
Authors: Hahn Tobias , Trunzer Tatjana , Rusly Florence , Zolyomi Ryan , Shekhawat Lalita K. , Malmquist Gunnar , Hesslein Ashley , Tjandra Hendri
Published: May 2023

Protein A affinity chromatography is an important step in the purification of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and mAb‐derived biotherapeutics. While the biopharma industry has extensive expertise in the operation of protein A chromatography, the mechanistic understanding of the adsorption/desorption processes is still limited, and scaling up and scaling down can be challenging because of complex mass transfer effects in bead‐based resins. In convective media, such as fiber‐based technologies, complex mass transfer effects such as film and pore diffusions do not occur which facilitates the study of the adsorption phenomena in more detail and simplifies the process scale‐up. In the present study, the experimentation with small‐scale fiber‐based protein A affinity adsorber units using different flow rates forms the basis for modeling of mAb adsorption and elution behavior. The modeling approach combines aspects of both stoichiometric and colloidal adsorption models, and an empirical part for the pH. With this type of model, it was possible to describe the experimental chromatograms on a small scale very well. An in silico scale‐up could be carried out solely with the help of system and device characterization without feedstock. The adsorption model could be transferred without adaption. Although only a limited number of runs were used for modeling, the predictions of up to 37 times larger units were accurate.
Galcanezumab for the treatment of chronic migraine and medication overuse headache: Real‐world clinical evidence in a severely impaired patient population
Authors: Guerzoni Simona , Baraldi Carlo , Castro Flavia Lo , Cainazzo Maria Michela , Pani Luca
Published: May 2023

Background

Galcanezumab is a monoclonal antibody acting against the calcitonin gene‐related peptide approved for the preventive treatment of migraine. The aim of this article is to explore its effectiveness and safety of galcanezumab in chronic migraine (CM) with medication overuse‐headache (MOH).

Methods

Seventy‐eight patients were consecutively enrolled at the Modena headache center and followed up for 15 months. Visits were scheduled every 3 months, and the following variables were collected: the number of migraine days per month (MDM); the painkillers taken per month (PM); the number of days per month in which the patient took, at least, one painkiller; the six‐item headache impact test; and the migraine disability assessment questionnaire (MIDAS) score. Demographic features of the analyzed sample were collected at the baseline and adverse events (AEs) were collected at every visit.

Results

After 12 months, galcanezumab significantly reduced the MDM, the PM, the number of days on medication, the HIT‐6 as well as the MIDAS scores (all p < .0001). The greatest amelioration was obtained in the first trimester of treatment. A higher MDM, a higher NRS score at the baseline, and a higher number of failed preventive treatments negatively predict the CM relief at the year of treatment. No serious AEs were registered and only one drop‐out was due to AE.

Conclusions

Galcanezumab is effective and safe for the treatment of patients affected by CM and MOH. Patients with a higher impairment at the baseline may found less benefits with galcanezumab.
RETRACTED: Exploring antecedents for the circular economy capability of micro, small and medium enterprises: An empirical study
Authors: Baral Manish Mohan , Mukherjee Subhodeep , Singh Rajesh Kr , Chittipaka Venkataiah , Kazancoglu Yigit
Published: May 2023

Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) play an important role in the economies of developing countries. The circular economy (CE) is considered a long‐term initiative for protecting the environment by reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions, recycling and ending planned obsolescence. This research aims to explore antecedents for the CE capability in the context of the Indian MSMEs. The current study used the extended theory of planned behaviour and institutional theory to measure CE capabilities. Seven hypotheses are developed in this study. The survey‐based research is carried out with 296 responses from the MSMEs of different sectors in India. Hypothesis testing is done using the structural equation modelling approach. Major constructs identified for this study are green economic incentives (GEIs), social pressure (SP) and attitude. These constructs have a significant association with the CE capability of MSMEs. Environmental commitment (EC) and sustainable supply chain design (SSCD) act as mediators. Insights from this study will help the top management of MSMEs to understand antecedents for CE capability. The findings show that SP and GEIs are positively associated with EC and SSCD. It is found that EC and SSCD play a complimentary mediation role. The research findings will provide a solid foundation for understanding the importance of CE capability in MSMEs and developing strategic plans to facilitate implementing CE in these small sized firms.
Replenishable prevascularized cell encapsulation devices increase graft survival and function in the subcutaneous space
Authors: Chendke Gauree S. , Kharbikar Bhushan N. , Ashe Sudipta , Faleo Gaetano , Sneddon Julie B. , Tang Qizhi , Hebrok Matthias , Desai Tejal A.
Published: May 2023

Beta cell replacement therapy (BCRT) for patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) improves blood glucose regulation by replenishing the endogenous beta cells destroyed by autoimmune attack. Several limitations, including immune isolation, prevent this therapy from reaching its full potential. Cell encapsulation devices used for BCRT provide a protective physical barrier for insulin‐producing beta cells, thereby protecting transplanted cells from immune attack. However, poor device engraftment posttransplantation leads to nutrient deprivation and hypoxia, causing metabolic strain on transplanted beta cells. Prevascularization of encapsulation devices at the transplantation site can help establish a host vascular network around the implant, increasing solute transport to the encapsulated cells. Here, we present a replenishable prevascularized implantation methodology (RPVIM) that allows for the vascular integration of replenishable encapsulation devices in the subcutaneous space. Empty encapsulation devices were vascularized for 14 days, after which insulin‐producing cells were inserted without disrupting the surrounding vasculature. The RPVIM devices were compared with nonprevascularized devices (Standard Implantation Methodology [SIM]) and previously established prevascularized devices (Standard Prevascularization Implantation Methodology [SPVIM]). Results show that over 75% of RPVIM devices containing stem cell‐derived insulin‐producing beta cell clusters showed a signal after 28 days of implantation in subcutaneous space. Notably, not only was the percent of RPVIM devices showing signal significantly greater than SIM and SPVIM devices, but the intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests and histological analyses showed that encapsulated stem‐cell derived insulin‐producing beta cell clusters retained their function in the RPVIM devices, which is crucial for the successful management of T1D.
Crowd evacuation simulation in flowing fluids
Authors: Zou Xunjin , Ye Yunqing , Zhu Zhenmin , Chen Qiang
Published: May 2023

In this article, we propose an integrated model for simulating the interaction between crowds and fluid particles. Our focus is on simulating evacuation motion for crowds in the face of sudden floods. Our model treats both the crowd and the water as fluid particles, which allows us to incorporate various forces such as pressure, shear, buoyancy, and active forces to drive the agents. Additionally, we have designed a minimum rotational path‐planning algorithm for agents to search for safe destinations during evacuations. To develop practical crowd evacuation strategies, we observed and studied survival techniques from whirlpools and sudden changes in water levels during floods. Our simulated evacuation results provide plausible strategies for crowds to survive dangerous floods.
Vectorizing binary image boundaries with symmetric shape detection, bisection and optimal parameterization
Authors: Zhu Zaiping , You Lihua , Zhang Jian Jun
Published: May 2023

Binary image boundary vectorization is the process of converting raster images into vector images represented with a sequence of Bézier curves. Two main factors in reconstructing parametric curves are to approximate the underlying structure of the boundaries as much as possible while using as few curves as possible. Existing methods do not perform well when considering both of these two main factors. In this article, we mimic the process of human vectorizing image boundaries by first segmenting the boundary points into multiple segments with the corner points. For the boundary points in each segment, we adopt the bisection method to find the largest number of points, which a single curve can fit. More curves will be added if the fitting error is larger than a predefined threshold. The process is repeated until all the points in the segment are fitted, thus minimizing the number of Bézier curves. Besides, symmetric image boundaries can be detected and used to further decrease the number of curves required. Our method can also choose the optimal parameterization method case by case to further reduce the fitting error. We make a comparison with both new and classical methods and show that our method outperforms them.
Polycephalums A and B, New Anticoagulant Constituents Isolated from Clinopodium polycephalum
Authors: Tao Muke , Liu Yaxuan , Zhou Xiangmin , Yu Xinlan , Zhang Yi , Guo Li , Meng Dali
Published: May 2023

Two previously undescribed compounds (1 and 2) were isolated from Clinopodium polycephalum, a medicinal plant distributed in southwestern and eastern China. Their structures were elucidated using MS analyses and extensive 2D‐homo and heteronuclear NMR data interpretations. Both compounds 1 and 2 could significantly shorten APTT and PT, and their procoagulant effect was comparable to that of positive drugs. At the same time, compound 2 had certain antioxidant activity (IC50 value of 2.25±0.05 μM in ABTS assay).
Fluorenylidene‐Cyclopentadithiophene Based Asymmetric Bistricyclic Aromatic Ene Compounds: Synthesis and Substituents Effects
Authors: Xiao Beibei , Yang Yongrui , Chen Shengnan , Zou Ye , Chen Xing , Liu Kanglei , Wang Nan , Qiao Yali , Yin Xiaodong
Published: May 2023

Low band gap materials have always been a focus of attention due to their potential applications in various fields. In this work, a series of asymmetric bistricyclic aromatic ene (BAE) compounds with fluorenylidene‐cyclopentadithiophene (FYT) skeleton were facially synthesized, which were modified with different substituents (−OMe, −SMe). The FYT core exhibit twisted C=C bond with dihedral angles around 30°, and the introduction of −SMe group can provide additional S⋅⋅⋅S interaction between molecules, which is conducive to the charge transporting. The UV‐Vis spectra, electrochemistry and photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that these compounds have relatively narrow band gaps, particularly, the −SMe modified compounds have slightly lower HOMO and Fermi energy levels than that of the −OMe modified compounds. Furthermore, PSCs devices were fabricated with the three compounds as HTMs, and FYT‐DSDPA exhibit the best performance among them, revealing the fine‐tuning band structure could influence properties of HTMs.
Imaging‐Guided Cancer Therapy Based on Multifunctional Magnetic Nanoparticles†
Authors: Ma Ran , Hou Yanglong , Wang Shuren
Published: May 2023

Comprehensive Summary

In recent years, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have received great attention within the field of biomedicine, especially for cancer therapy. This is because MNPs have many excellent physical and chemical properties to provide sufficient imaging information along with satisfactory therapeutic efficacy. Moreover, by virtue of various modification strategies, the obtained multifunctional MNPs can further achieve synergized multimodal cancer theranostic, which is worthy of further study. In this review, we summarize the recent developments in imaging‐guided strategies and synergistic cancer therapy based on multifunctional MNPs. Then, we discuss the challenge and perspective of the next generation of MNPs‐based imaging‐guided cancer therapy, hoping to provide guidance in potential applications.