bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D Porous Graphene Films with Large‐Area In‐Plane Exterior Skins
Authors: Tay Roland Yingjie , Li Hongling , Ng Zhi Kai , Tsang Siu Hon , Gao Wei , Teo Edwin Hang Tong
Published: January 2022

Construction of macroscopic 3D architectures of graphene is crucial to harness the advantageous properties of planar 2D graphene and to enable integration to many conventional and novel applications. Ideally, the 3D structure of graphene should be free of defects, covalently interconnected, and can be produced at large‐scale. Among various assembly techniques, fabrication using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) enables the production of high‐quality graphene where selection of template is the key that determines its consequent crystalline quality and structural morphology. Herein, a new method is presented to synthesize high‐quality porous graphene film by incorporating an in situ reduction–oxidation cycling treatment to generate micrometer‐sized pores on commercial Ni foil using an all‐CVD process route. Owing to the unique morphological features of the modified Ni template, the graphene film exhibits a holey surface with large‐area exterior skin coverage of >94% and many interconnected ligaments within its porous interior. This extraordinary configuration gives rise to superior in‐plane electrical conductivity despite its low density. In comparison to state‐of‐the‐art materials for electromagnetic interference shielding, this porous graphene film is among the best performing materials with a specific shielding effectiveness of >550 dB cm3 g−1 and absolute effectiveness of >220 000 dB cm2 g−1.
High‐Capacitance Nanoporous Noble Metal Thin Films via Reduction of Sputtered Metal Oxides
Authors: Gryszel Maciej , Jakešová Marie , Lednický Tomáš , Głowacki Eric Daniel
Published: January 2022

Increasing the electrochemical surface area of noble metal electrodes is vital for many applications, including catalysis and bioelectronics. Herein, a method is presented for obtaining porous noble metal thin films via reactive magnetron sputtering of noble metal oxides, MOx, followed by their reduction using chemical reducers or electrochemical current. Variation of reduction conditions yields a range of different electrochemical and morphological properties. This method for obtaining porous noble metals is rapid, facile, and compatible with microfabrication processes. The resulting metallic films are porous and have competitively high capacitance and low impedance.
A Simple and Robust Method to Prepare Polyelectrolyte Brushes on Polymer Surfaces
Authors: Schulze Maiko , Adigüzel Seyma , Nickl Philip , Schmitt Ann‐Cathrin , Dernedde Jens , Ballauff Matthias , Haag Rainer
Published: January 2022

A simple and robust method is presented to immobilize a heparin‐analog polyelectrolyte on inert hydrophobic surfaces. It is demonstrated that an amphiphilic block copolymer consisting of linear polyglycerol sulfate (lPGS) and a benzophenone modified anchor block can be bound to polystyrene surfaces in a facile dip‐coating procedure. The chaotropic salt guanidinium chloride is used to overcome the aggregation of the polymer as well as the repulsion between highly hydrated sulfate groups and the polystyrene surface. Irradiation with UV light tethers the polymer chains covalently to the surface. The resulting coating exhibits an aggregate morphology that resembles the aggregation behavior in solution, with a coating thickness of 8 nm. The behavior of the surfaces is dominated by the polyelectrolyte brush coating. They swell and collapse in response to different ionic strengths of the surrounding medium, and bind proteins via electrostatic interactions. The coating is stable toward physiological conditions over the course of several weeks. Coated surfaces bind to proteins of the complement cascade when in contact with dilute blood serum, which results in a decrease of complement activity to 78 ± 4%. The coating procedure can also be applied to other nonactivated polymer surfaces, as demonstrated on a polypropylene fleece.
Virtual Infrared Display on Flexible and Transparent Substrate
Authors: Yang Jonguk , Kang Youngsoo , Jeong Sang‐Mi , Seo Keumyoung , Lim Taekyung , Ju Sanghyun
Published: January 2022

This study investigates a method of implementing virtual IR images, similar to the IR images of actual objects, on a transparent and flexible substrate. Virtual IR images/videos can be implemented by irradiating the near‐infrared‐to‐long‐wave IR (NIR‐to‐LWIR) conversion film that can emit LWIR after absorbing NIR and quickly converting it to heat energy. Furthermore, IR images/videos that have shapes and colors similar to actual objects can be formed by adjusting the intensity of the LWIR emitted from the NIR‐to‐LWIR conversion film. This IR image implementation technology is expected to be applicable to advanced camouflage technology—technology that can hide objects or cause them to be perceived as different objects—as well as the implementation of a virtual IR environment that can be used to verify the performance of IR cameras and IR search and tracking systems for artificial intelligence robots, autonomous vehicles, and combat equipment.
Radiation from Side‐Emitting Optical Fibers and Fiber Fabrics: Radiometric Model and Experimental Validation
Authors: Reupert Aaron , Schröder Jan , Wondraczek Lothar
Published: January 2022

Side‐emitting optical fibers are diffuse light sources that emit guided light through their cladding. Herein, two models to predict the generated radiation field are derived: one for the case of a cylinder source and one for a line source. The approach is based on the radiometric approximation and considers longitudinal and angle‐dependent emission. Experimental validation is provided for the model parameters and the radiation field. It is shown that the longitudinal characteristic is relevant in proximity to the emitter's surface and that the angular dependency determines the far field of emission. Comparison to the experiment shows that the cylinder source model allows for only slightly more accurate prediction at the cost of significantly higher computational effort. A combination of model and measurements is then used to predict the illumination performance of side‐emitting fibers and fiber fabrics.
Tailoring Femtosecond‐Laser Processed Black Silicon for Reduced Carrier Recombination Combined with >95% Above‐Bandgap Absorption
Authors: Liu Xiaolong , Radfar Behrad , Chen Kexun , Pasanen Toni P. , Vähänissi Ville , Savin Hele
Published: January 2022

The femtosecond‐pulsed laser processed black silicon (fs‐bSi) features high absorptance in a wide spectral range but suffers from high amount of laser induced damage as compared with bSi fabricated by other methods. Here, the aim is to minimize the charge carrier recombination in the fs‐bSi caused by laser damage as indicated by the sub‐bandgap absorption and as quantified by the carrier lifetime, while maintaining high absorption in the above bandgap. The effect of the laser parameters, including the focal position, the average power, and the scan speed are systematically studied by characterizing the surface morphology, the absorptance spectra, and the minority‐carrier recombination lifetime. For the surface passivation of fs‐bSi, the well‐established atomic layer deposited (ALD) Al2O3 is used. The results show that with the tailored laser parameters, high average absorptance of about 96% in the visible range and minority carrier lifetime of 54 μs at the injection level of Δn = 1 · 1015 cm−3 can be obtained simultaneously. This work paves the way toward high‐performance broadband optoelectronic devices based on surface passivated fs‐bSi.
Blue‐Light Emissive Type II ZnO@5‐Amino‐2‐Naphthalene Sulfonic Acid Core–Shell Quantum Dots
Authors: Kim Hong Hee , Park Soohyung , Lee Heebin , Kang Jeung Ku , Choi Won Kook
Published: January 2022

Blue‐light emissive type II ZnO@5‐amino‐2‐naphthalene sulfonic acid (ANSA) core–shell quantum dots (QDs) is first fabricated. Green luminescence (GL) of 2.25 eV of ZnO QDs disappears at the threshold excitation wavelengths (λex) > 400 nm due to the electronic transition from conduction band (CB) or shallow donor centers to VZn2− at ≈0.9 eV above valence band (VB). Blue emissions from ZnO@ANSA QDs are well elucidated by the charge transfer from CB of ZnO QDs to lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of ANSA and from shallow donor Zn interstitial (Zni) or extended Zni states to CO, CN, CS (π*)‐states, and then the electronic transitions to nonbonding CO, CN, CS (π) states of ANSA. Spectral‐dependent electron paramagnetic resonance (SDEPR) peak g = 1.96 of ZnO QDs emerges only with illumination of light shorter than 400 nm in wavelength and completely disappears in ZnO@ANSA QDs. Electrons trapped in CB or Zni's are unveiled to participate in GL and the paramagnetic defect to derive electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) peak g = 1.96 of ZnO. The estimated spin–spin relaxation time (T2) of ZnO QDs was about 32.5 ns, which is two orders of magnitude longer than known values for bulk or thin‐film ZnO.
Colorectal Cancer‐Derived Small Extracellular Vesicles Promote Tumor Immune Evasion by Upregulating PD‐L1 Expression in Tumor‐Associated Macrophages
Authors: Yin Yuan , Liu Bingxin , Cao Yulin , Yao Surui , Liu Yuhang , Jin Guoying , Qin Yan , Chen Ying , Cui Kaisa , Zhou Leyuan , Bian Zehua , Fei Bojian , Huang Shenglin , Huang Zhaohui
Published: January 2022

Tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) are one of the most abundant cell types in colorectal cancer (CRC) tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent studies observed complicated “cross‐talks” between cancer cells and macrophages in TME. However, the underlying mechanisms are still poorly elucidated. Here, PD‐L1 levels are very low in CRC cells but highly abundant in TAMs, and a specific PD‐L1+CD206+ macrophage subpopulation are identified, which is induced by tumor cells and associated with a poor prognosis. Mechanistic investigations reveal that CRC cells can secrete small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) taken up by macrophages that induce M2 like polarization and PD‐L1 expression, resulting in increased PD‐L1+CD206+ macrophage abundance and decreased T cell activity in CRC TME. sEV‐derived miR‐21‐5p and miR‐200a are identified as key signaling molecules mediating the regulatory effects of CRC on macrophages. Further studies reveal that CRC‐derived miR‐21‐5p and miR‐200a synergistically induces macrophage M2 like polarization and PD‐L1 expression by regulating the PTEN/AKT and SCOS1/STAT1 pathways, resulting in decreased CD8+ T cell activity and increased tumor growth. This study suggests that inhibiting the secretion of specific sEV‐miRNAs from CRC and targeting PD‐L1 in TAMs may serve as novel methods for CRC treatment as well as a sensitization method for anti‐PD‐L1 therapy in CRC.
Atomistic Engineering of Phonons in Functional Oxide Heterostructures
Authors: Jeong Seung Gyo , Seo Ambrose , Choi Woo Seok
Published: January 2022

Engineering of phonons, that is, collective lattice vibrations in crystals, is essential for manipulating physical properties of materials such as thermal transport, electron‐phonon interaction, confinement of lattice vibration, and optical polarization. Most approaches to phonon‐engineering have been largely limited to the high‐quality heterostructures of III–V compound semiconductors. Yet, artificial engineering of phonons in a variety of materials with functional properties, such as complex oxides, will yield unprecedented applications of coherent tunable phonons in future quantum acoustic devices. In this study, artificial engineering of phonons in the atomic‐scale SrRuO3/SrTiO3 superlattices is demonstrated, wherein tunable phonon modes are observed via confocal Raman spectroscopy. In particular, the coherent superlattices led to the backfolding of acoustic phonon dispersion, resulting in zone‐folded acoustic phonons in the THz frequency domain. The frequencies can be largely tuned from 1 to 2 THz via atomic‐scale precision thickness control. In addition, a polar optical phonon originating from the local inversion symmetry breaking in the artificial oxide superlattices is observed, exhibiting emergent functionality. The approach of atomic‐scale heterostructuring of complex oxides will vastly expand material systems for quantum acoustic devices, especially with the viability of functionality integration.
Sustaining Robust Cavities with Slippery Liquid–Liquid Interfaces
Authors: Zhu Suwan , Wu Tao , Bian Yucheng , Chen Chao , Zhang Yiyuan , Li Jiawen , Wu Dong , Hu Yanlei , Chu Jiaru , Li Erqiang , Wang Zuankai
Published: January 2022

The formation of a stable gas cavity on the surfaces of solid bodies is essential for many practical applications, such as drag reduction and energy savings, owing to the transformation of the originally sticky solid–liquid interface into a free‐slip liquid–vapor interface by the creation of either liquid repellency or a Leidenfrost state on the surfaces. Here, it is shown that the simple infusion of a textured sphere with a smooth, slippery liquid layer can more easily create and sustain a stable gas cavity in a liquid at lower impact velocities compared to a dry solid sphere with the same contact angle. With a key parameter of curvature ratio, the early lamella dynamics during water entry of spheres and drops impact on planes are first unified. With the perspective of wetting transition, the unforeseen phenomenon of prone to cavity formation are successfully explained, which is the preferential lamella detachment from a slippery surface due to the higher viscosity of the lubricant relative to air. It is envisioned that the findings will provide an important and fundamental contribution to the quest for energy‐efficient transport.
Boosting the Self‐Trapped Exciton Emission in Alloyed Cs2(Ag/Na)InCl6 Double Perovskite via Cu+ Doping
Authors: Cheng Xingwen , Xie Zhi , Zheng Wei , Li Renfu , Deng Zhonghua , Tu Datao , Shang Xiaoying , Xu Jin , Gong Zhongliang , Li Xingjun , Chen Xueyuan
Published: January 2022

Fundamental understanding of the effect of doping on the optical properties of 3D double perovskites (DPs) especially the dynamics of self‐trapped excitons (STEs) is of vital importance for their optoelectronic applications. Herein, a unique strategy via Cu+ doping to achieve efficient STE emission in the alloyed lead‐free Cs2(Ag/Na)InCl6 DPs is reported. A small amount (1.0 mol%) of Cu+ doping results in boosted STE emission in the crystals, with photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield increasing from 19.0% to 62.6% and excitation band shifting from 310 to 365 nm. Temperature‐dependent PL and femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopies reveal that the remarkable PL enhancement originates from the increased radiative recombination rate and density of STEs, as a result of symmetry breakdown of the STE wavefunction at the octahedral Ag+ site. These findings provide deep insights into the STE dynamics in Cu+‐doped Cs2(Ag/Na)InCl6, thereby laying a foundation for the future design of new lead‐free DPs with efficient STE emission.
Single‐Nucleus RNA Sequencing Reveals that Decorin Expression in the Amygdala Regulates Perineuronal Nets Expression and Fear Conditioning Response after Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Shi Yingwu , Wu Xun , Zhou Jinpeng , Cui Wenxing , Wang Jin , Hu Qing , Zhang Shenghao , Han Liying , Zhou Meixuan , Luo Jianing , Wang Qiang , Liu Haixiao , Feng Dayun , Ge Shunnan , Qu Yan
Published: January 2022

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a risk factor for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Augmented fear is a defining characteristic of PTSD, and the amygdala is considered the main brain region to process fear. The mechanism by which the amygdala is involved in fear conditioning after TBI is still unclear. Using single‐nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA‐seq), transcriptional changes in cells in the amygdala after TBI are investigated. In total, 72 328 nuclei are obtained from the sham and TBI groups. 7 cell types, and analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) reveals widespread transcriptional changes in each cell type after TBI are identified. In in vivo experiments, it is demonstrated that Decorin (Dcn) expression in the excitatory neurons of the amygdala significantly increased after TBI, and Dcn knockout in the amygdala mitigates TBI‐associated fear conditioning. Of note, this effect is caused by a Dcn‐mediated decrease in the expression of perineuronal nets (PNNs), which affect the glutamate‐γ‐aminobutyric acid balance in the amygdala. Finally, the results suggest that Dcn functions by interacting with collagen VI α3 (Col6a3). Consequently, the findings reveal transcriptional changes in different cell types of the amygdala after TBI and provide direct evidence that Dcn relieves fear conditioning by regulating PNNs.
cAMP‐Induced Nuclear Condensation of CRTC2 Promotes Transcription Elongation and Cystogenesis in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Mi Zeyun , Song Yandong , Wang Jiuchen , Liu Zhiheng , Cao Xinyi , Dang Lin , Lu Yumei , Sun Yongzhan , Xiong Hui , Zhang Lirong , Chen Yupeng
Published: January 2022

Formation of biomolecular condensates by phase separation has recently emerged as a new principle for regulating gene expression in response to extracellular signaling. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the coupling of signal transduction and gene activation through condensate formation, and how dysregulation of these mechanisms contributes to disease progression, remain elusive. Here, the authors report that CREB‐regulated transcription coactivator 2 (CRTC2) translocates to the nucleus and forms phase‐separated condensates upon activation of cAMP signaling. They show that intranuclear CRTC2 interacts with positive transcription elongation factor b (P‐TEFb) and activates P‐TEFb by disrupting the inhibitory 7SK snRNP complex. Aberrantly elevated cAMP signaling plays central roles in the development of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). They find that CRTC2 localizes to the nucleus and forms condensates in cystic epithelial cells of both mouse and human ADPKD kidneys. Genetic depletion of CRTC2 suppresses cyst growth in an orthologous ADPKD mouse model. Using integrative transcriptomic and cistromic analyses, they identify CRTC2‐regulated cystogenesis‐associated genes, whose activation depends on CRTC2 condensate‐facilitated P‐TEFb recruitment and the release of paused RNA polymerase II. Together, their findings elucidate a mechanism by which CRTC2 nuclear condensation conveys cAMP signaling to transcription elongation activation and thereby promotes cystogenesis in ADPKD.
High‐Resolution 3D Printing for Electronics
Authors: Park Young‐Geun , Yun Insik , Chung Won Gi , Park Wonjung , Lee Dong Ha , Park Jang‐Ung
Published: January 2022

The ability to form arbitrary 3D structures provides the next level of complexity and a greater degree of freedom in the design of electronic devices. Since recent progress in electronics has expanded their applicability in various fields in which structural conformability and dynamic configuration are required, high‐resolution 3D printing technologies can offer significant potential for freeform electronics. Here, the recent progress in novel 3D printing methods for freeform electronics is reviewed, with providing a comprehensive study on 3D‐printable functional materials and processes for various device components. The latest advances in 3D‐printed electronics are also reviewed to explain representative device components, including interconnects, batteries, antennas, and sensors. Furthermore, the key challenges and prospects for next‐generation printed electronics are considered, and the future directions are explored based on research that has emerged recently.
Ultralarge Free‐Standing Imine‐Based Covalent Organic Framework Membranes Fabricated via Compression
Authors: Martín‐Illán Jesús Á. , Suárez José Antonio , Gómez‐Herrero Julio , Ares Pablo , Gallego‐Fuente Daniel , Cheng Youdong , Zhao Dan , Maspoch Daniel , Zamora Félix
Published: January 2022

Demand continues for processing methods to shape covalent organic frameworks (COFs) into macroscopic objects that are needed for their practical applications. Herein, a simple compression method to prepare large‐scale, free‐standing homogeneous and porous imine‐based COF‐membranes with dimensions in the centimeter range and excellent mechanical properties is reported. This method entails the compression of imine‐based COF‐aerogels, which undergo a morphological change from an elastic to plastic material. The COF‐membranes fabricated upon compression show good performances for the separation of gas mixtures of industrial interest, N2/CO2 and CH4/CO2. It is believed that the new procedure paves the way to a broader range of COF‐membranes.
Atomically Precise Water‐Soluble Graphene Quantum Dot for Cancer Sonodynamic Therapy
Authors: Ju Yang‐Yang , Shi Xiao‐Xiao , Xu Shu‐Yu , Ma Xiao‐Hui , Wei Rong‐Jing , Hou Hao , Chu Cheng‐Chao , Sun Di , Liu Gang , Tan Yuan‐Zhi
Published: January 2022

Although water‐soluble graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have shown various promising bio‐applications due to their intriguing optical and chemical properties, the large heterogeneity in compositions, sizes, and shapes of these GQDs hampers the better understanding of their structure‐properties correlation and further uses in terms of large‐scale manufacturing practices and safety concerns. It is shown here that a water‐soluble atomically‐precise GQD (WAGQD‐C96) is synthesized and exhibits a deep‐red emission and excellent sonodynamic sensitization. By decorating sterically hindered water‐soluble functional groups, WAGQD‐C96 can be monodispersed in water without further aggregation. The deep‐red emission of WAGQD‐C96 facilitates the tracking of its bio‐process, showing a good cell‐uptake and long‐time retention in tumor tissue. Compared to traditional molecular sonosensitizers, WAGQD‐C96 generates superior reactive oxygen species and demonstrates excellent tumor inhibition potency as an anti‐cancer sonosensitizer in in vivo studies. A good biosafety of WAGQD‐C96 is validated in both in vitro and in vivo assays.
Deep Domain Adaptation for Predicting Intra‐Abdominal Pressure with Multichannel Attention Fusion Radar Chip
Authors: Tang Hao , Dai Yanbo , Zhao Dongchu , Sun Zhiwei , Chen Fuqiang , Zhu Yiliang , Liang Huaping , Cao Hailin , Zhang Lianyang
Published: January 2022

Intra‐abdominal hypertension (IAH) has gained increasing attention worldwide because of its prevalence and high mortality rate among intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Most current approaches of measuring intra‐abdominal pressure (IAP) involve the use of sensors inside or attached to the body, which may, however, make daily monitoring inconvenient. This paper proposes a noninvasive and contactless system to learn the relationship between the passive mechanical behavior of the abdominal wall with millimeter‐wave (mm‐wave) frequency‐modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar and an IAP sensor via a deep learning approach. We correlated the IAP variance with the mobility measures of the abdominal wall and proposed Pearson‐coefficient‐guided domain adversarial neural network (PCG‐DANN) to learn the mapping relationship. To validate the efficacy of our proposed method, a stable intra‐abdominal hypertension/abdominal compartment syndrome (IAH/ACS) model using swine was established to evaluate the mobility of the abdominal wall under different intra‐abdominal pressures with multichannel mm‐wave FMCW radar. The superiority of the proposed method is demonstrated by comparing with other neural network structures and mostly adopted sensor‐based methods. These preliminary results confirm that the new methodology for evaluating IAP nonlinearity is promising and that it can serve as an important diagnostic and treatment reference for patients with IAH.
Delayed diagnosis and racial bias in children with genetic conditions
Authors: Omorodion Jacklyn , Dowsett Leah , Clark Robin D. , Fraser Jamie , Abu‐El‐Haija Aya , Strong Alanna , Wojcik Monica H. , Bryant Allison S. , Gold Nina B.
Published: January 2022

As more therapeutics for genetic conditions become available, the need for timely and equitable genetic diagnosis has become urgent. Using clinical cases, we consider the health system‐, provider‐, and patient‐level factors that contribute to the delayed diagnosis of genetic conditions in pediatric patients from minority populations, leading to health disparities between racial groups. We then provide suggestions to address these factors, with the aim of improving minority health and access to genetic care for all children.
On the evolution of distinctive natal coat coloration in primates
Authors: Caro Tim , Brockelsbury Kasey , Ferrari Annie , Koneru Manisha , Ono Konatsu , Rowe Zeke W. , Touche Edward , Walker Hannah , Stankowich Theodore
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Neonates of several primate species are born with very different pelage coloration from their parents but then assume adult coat color within weeks or months of birth. We set out to test the three conventional functional hypotheses for this distinctive transient natal coat coloration in primates (infanticide, allomothering, and confusion of paternity) as well as solicitation of maternal care, and across all neonate primates, background matching, and Gloger's rule (dark coats being associated with humid environments).

Materials and Methods

To examine the functional significance of neonate pelage coloration, we employed five different measures of distinctive coat coloration, new updated information on primate life histories, and a complete primate phylogeny of 286 species to control for shared ancestry.

Results

Across primates, we found a strong association between distinctive natal coats and the prevalence of infanticide but no support for allomothering or confusing paternity. We also found that species in which young have distinct natal coats have relatively shorter interbirth intervals, as well as a tendency to be weaned earlier which is unrelated to allomothering. Darker primate natal coats (whether distinctive or not) are not found in shadier, warmer, or wetter habitats.

Discussion

While distinct natal coats in primates are generally found in infanticidal species, we argue on logical grounds that this is not an advertisement to incoming males but instead neonate coloration solicits greater maternal care. This enables infants to pass through this infanticide‐induced mortality‐prone infant phase more rapidly. Conspicuous neonate coats in comparison to adults appear to act as a super‐normal stimulus for mothers to hasten post‐natal development of their offspring.
Ferrocenyl‐2‐pyridylimine derived d10‐configuration complexes as prospective co‐sensitizers in dye sensitized solar cells
Authors: Gautam Chiteri , Singh Ayushi , Gosavi Suresh W. , Chauhan Ratna , Sharma Vinod K. , Alarifi Abdullah , Afzal Mohd , Muddassir Mohd. , Kumar Abhinav
Published: January 2022

Three complexes comprising ferrocenyl‐2‐pyridylimine and three d10 transition metal centers viz. Zn (II), Cd (II), and Hg (II) having formula [M (FcCH=NCH2(2‐py)] (M = Zn (II) (Zn‐Fc), Cd (II) (Cd‐Fc), and Hg (II) (Hg‐Fc); Fc = Ferrocene) are synthesized and their characterization have been done using microanalytical technique, FT‐IR and NMR spectroscopic methods. The optimized molecular geometries for all the three ferrocene‐based complexes revealed that the coordination geometries around the d10‐metal centers are distorted tetrahedral. The application of these complexes as sensitizers and co‐sensitizers/co‐adsorbents have been assessed in dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Amid the three co‐sensitizers/co‐adsorbent based the DSSC set‐ups, the assembly fabricated using Zn‐Fc/N719 displayed superior performance with 5.71 ± 0.04% efficiency (η) indicating enhancement in the DSSC performance than to the set‐up constructed using solely N719 (η = 4.20 ± 0.05%).
Surface modification of PTFE/SiO2 composite films through the deposition of polydopamine (PDA) and the modified adhesive properties
Authors: Liu Zhiyu , Zhang Yao , Zhou Qian , Chen Rong , Guo Shaoyun
Published: January 2022

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and its composite films are difficult to bond with other materials due to the molecular chain structure of PTFE, which limits the application in the electronic fields. In this work, surface modification of PTFE/SiO2 composite films are realized through the polydopamine (PDA) deposition. The chemical and morphological results exhibit that PDA is successfully deposited on the surface of the PTFE/SiO2 films. The deposition of PDA changes the polarity and wettability of PTFE/SiO2 composite films. Thus, a significant development in the adhesive performance is obtained, and the peel strength increases from 0.34 to 0.42 N/mm. Moreover, the dielectric property and mechanical performance of the films are maintained. After immersed in 3.0 g/L DAH solution for 24 h, the dielectric constant of the composite films is still as low as 2.44 (10 GHz), and the dielectric loss decreases from 0.002 to 0.00035 (10 GHz). The tensile strength and elongation at break are barely reduced. Therefore, the surface deposition of PDA is considered as a profound modification for the PTFE/SiO2 films in the electronic industry.
Detection of Aliphatic Aldehydes by a Pillar[5]arene‐based Fluorescent Supramolecular Polymer with Vaporchromic Behavior
Authors: Shi Bingbing , Chai Yongping , Qin Peng , Zhao Xing‐Xing , Li Weichun , Zhang You‐Ming , Wei Tai‐Bao , Lin Qi , Yao Hong , Qu Wen‐Juan
Published: January 2022

The detection of volatile aliphatic aldehydes is of significance because of their chemical toxicity, physical volatility and widespread applications in chemical industrial processes. In this work, the direct detection of aliphatic aldehydes is tackled using a pillar[5]arene‐based fluorescent supramolecular polymer with vaporchromic behavior. Thin films with strong orange‐yellow fluorescence are prepared by coating the linear supramolecular polymer on glass sheets. When the thin films are exposed to aliphatic aldehydes with different carbon chain lengths, they can selectively sensing n‐butyraldehyde (C4) and caprylicaldehyde (C8), accompanied by fluorescence quenching, indicating that the supramolecular polymer is a highly selective vapochromic response material for aliphatic aldehydes with long alkyl chains.
Novel red colour emitting Ca0.995Mg2(SO4)3:0.5Eu2+ phosphor under ultraviolet, blue, and green excitation for plant growth LEDs
Authors: Bargat Sushant Rajendra , Parauha Yatish Ratn , Shirbhate Nayana Sudhakar , Mishra Girish , Dhoble Sanjay Janaraoji
Published: January 2022

In the recent few years, Eu2+‐ and Mn4+‐activated phosphors are widely used as potential colour converters for indoor plant cultivation lighting application due to their marvellous luminescence characteristics as well as low cost. In this investigation, we synthesized novel red colour‐emitting Ca(2−x)Mg2(SO4)3:xmol% Eu2+ (x = 0–1.0 mol%) phosphors via a solid‐state reaction method in a reducing atmosphere. The photoluminescence (PL) excitation spectra of synthesized phosphors exhibited a broad excitation band with three excitation bands peaking at 349 nm, 494 nm, and 554 nm. Under these excitations, emission spectra exhibited a broad band in the red colour region at ~634 nm. The PL emission intensity was measured for different concentrations of Eu2+. The maximum Eu2+ doping concentration in the Ca2Mg2(SO4)3 host was observed for 0.5 mol%. According to Dexter theory, it was determined that dipole–dipole interaction was responsible for the concentration quenching. The luminous red colour emission of the sample was confirmed using Commission international de l'eclairage colour coordinates. The results of PL excitation and emission spectra of the prepared phosphors were well matched with excitation and emission wavelengths of phytochrome PR. Therefore, from the entire investigation and obtained results it was concluded that the synthesized Ca0.995Mg2(SO4)3:0.5mol%Eu2+ phosphor has huge potential for plant cultivation application.
Changes in deep neck muscle length from the neutral to forward head posture. A cadaveric study using Thiel cadavers
Authors: Lin Guohao , Wang Weijie , Wilkinson Tracey
Published: January 2022

Forward head posture (FHP) is one of the most common postural deviations. Deep neck muscle imbalance of individuals with FHP is of primary concern in clinical rehabilitation. However, there is scarce quantitative research on changes in deep neck muscle length with the head moving forward. This study aimed to investigate changes in deep neck muscle length with different severity levels of FHP. Six Thiel‐embalmed cadavers (four males and two females) were dissected, and 16 deep neck muscles in each cadaver were modeled by a MicroScribe 3D Digitizer in the neutral head posture, slight FHP, and severe FHP. The craniovertebral angle was used to evaluate the degrees of FHP. Quantitative length change of the deep neck muscles was analyzed using Rhinoceros 3D. In slight FHP significant changes in length occurred in four muscles: two shortened (upper semispinalis capitis, rectus capitis posterior minor) and two lengthened (longus capitis, splenius cervicis). In severe FHP all occipital extensors were significantly shortened (10.6 ± 6.4%), except for obliquus capitis superior, and all cervical extensors were significantly lengthened (4.8 ± 3.4%), while longus capitis (occipital flexor) and the superior oblique part of the longus colli (cervical flexor) were lengthened by 8.8 ± 3.8% and 4.2 ± 3.1%, respectively. No significant length change was observed for the axial rotator. This study presents an alternate anatomical insight into the clinical rehabilitation of FHP. Six muscles appear to be important in restoring optimal head posture, with improvements in FHP being related to interventions associated with the occipital and cervical extensors.
Reaffirmation: The critical partner to a new year's resolution
Authors: Skipworth Stan
Published: January 2022

Like many of you, I've approached more than one new year with the same hopes for progress and success in a variety of interests. For me, however, those hopes all too often become victim to the inevitable challenges that can and do impact schedules, priorities, even my initial passion to accomplish many of those goals.
Did court dismiss student's erroneous outcome claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: January 2022

A Liberty University student filed a complaint with the Office of Equity Compliance against his ex‐girlfriend. He accused her of assaulting and strangling him. The male student admitted to grabbing his ex‐girlfriend's arm to “push her off” because he was “scared for his life.”
Report offers law enforcement potential model for dealing with mental health crises
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: January 2022

In recent years, more law enforcement agencies — both campus and municipal — have been tasked with dealing with mental health crises and don't necessarily have the training or resources to manage these crises.
Design, Synthesis, and Antifungal Activity of Sulfoximine Derivatives Containing Nitroguanidine Moieties
Authors: Xiao Yulong , Li Hongsen , Shao Qun , Liu Yuan , Xie Yonghai , Zhao Linjing , Li Ya
Published: January 2022

To discover novel pesticide candidates, a series of sulfoximine derivatives were designed and synthesized via the oxidation coupling reaction of sulfides and N‐alkyl nitroguanidines. The compounds were evaluated for their antifungal activity against six phytopathogenic fungi. Most of them exhibited a broad spectrum of fungicidal activity in vitro. Compound 8IV‐b displayed good fungicidal activity against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Rhizoctonia solani, Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium graminearum, and Phytophthora capsici, with EC50 value of 12.82, 12.50, 17.25, 31.08, and 30.11 mg/L, respectively. In addition, compounds 8III‐c and 8IV‐e had EC50 values of 22.23 and 20.67 mg/L against P. capsic, which were significantly better than that of the commercial procymidone (118.15 mg/L). Strikingly, 8IV‐d exhibited satisfactory fungicidal activity against B. cinerea, which was comparable to control procymidone in terms of their EC50 values (7.42 versus 10.83 mg/L), and the bioassays in vivo further confirmed that 8IV‐d possessed potent protective effect against B. cinerea at 200 mg/L (72.2 %). These present findings will facilitate the design and development of novel potent fungicides.
Congenital duplicated incus in the mastoid cavity
Authors: Pan Dorothy W. , Voelker Courtney C. J.
Published: January 2022

Many congenital ossicular chain malformations exist, usually involving ossicular deformities, fixation, absence, or discontinuity. Duplication of ossicles has not been reported, much less a duplicated ossicle located in the mastoid. We present a case of a patient who had a duplicated incus in the mastoid antrum.
Remote Oxidative Activation of a [Cp*Rh] Monohydride**
Authors: Boyd Emily A. , Hopkins Leseberg Julie A. , Cosner Emma L. , Lionetti Davide , Henke Wade C. , Day Victor W. , Blakemore James D.
Published: January 2022

Half‐sandwich rhodium monohydrides are often proposed as intermediates in catalysis, but little is known regarding the redox‐induced reactivity accessible to these species. Herein, the bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene (dppf) ligand has been used to explore the reactivity that can be induced when a [Cp*Rh] monohydride undergoes remote (dppf‐centered) oxidation by 1e−. Chemical and electrochemical studies show that one‐electron redox chemistry is accessible to Cp*Rh(dppf), including a unique quasi‐reversible RhII/I process at −0.96 V vs. ferrocenium/ferrocene (Fc+/0). This redox manifold was confirmed by isolation of an uncommon RhII species, [Cp*Rh(dppf)]+, that was characterized by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Protonation of Cp*Rh(dppf) with anilinium triflate yielded an isolable and inert monohydride, [Cp*Rh(dppf)H]+, and this species was found to undergo a quasireversible electrochemical oxidation at +0.41 V vs. Fc+/0 that corresponds to iron‐centered oxidation in the dppf backbone. Thermochemical analysis predicts that this dppf‐centered oxidation drives a dramatic increase in acidity of the Rh−H moiety by 23 pKa units, a reactivity pattern confirmed by in situ 1H NMR studies. Taken together, these results show that remote oxidation can effectively induce M−H activation and suggest that ligand‐centered redox activity could be an attractive feature for the design of new systems relying on hydride intermediates.
Numerical investigation of flow, heat transfer, and kinetic reaction in a large‐difference bidisperse, circulating fluidized‐bed reactor
Authors: Song Chen , Xiao Juan , Lin Weixiang , Wang Simin , Tu Jiyuan , Wen Jian
Published: January 2022

To study particle bidispersity effect on the comprehensive performance of a gas–solid fluidized system, multi‐field coupling numerical research of large‐difference bidisperse circulating fluidized bed was performed. First, numerical simulation was conducted on the dynamic characteristic of a bidisperse gas–solid system that contained both Geldart A and B particles; heat transfer and reaction performances were then studied with the introduction of a propane dehydrogenation (PDH) kinetic reaction model; and finally, the concept of coupling fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) and PDH processes was proposed, and the feasibility was preliminarily discussed. The results showed that the two particle phases were hierarchically distributed with a pronounced segregation layer due to their large‐difference bidispersity characteristic, the Geldart B‐type particle was in a bubbling fluidizing state, while the Geldart A‐type particle was in a turbulent fluidizing state. With the initialized bed and regeneration temperature set to 973 K, the regenerated catalyst's final, balanced temperature could decrease to 942 K, which demonstrated that a significant decline in contact temperature between the feedstock and catalyst could be achieved in the following FCC risers. Additionally, this coupling process also achieved a nearly complete conversion of propane into propene, with a conversion efficiency of above 95%. The results showed the feasibility of this coupling process, which could optimize FCC riser reaction conditions and further achieve a higher‐valued light gas yield. This research can provide a reference for the study of the bidispersity effect on a gas–solid system, and the introduced coupling process can provide a new model for the FCC process's optimization.
Protic ionic liquid—2,2,2‐trifluoroacetic acid—methyl trifluoroacetate mixture distillation process
Authors: Polkovnichenko Andrei V. , Lupachev Egor V. , Kvashnin Sergei Ya. , Kulov Nikolai N. , Voshkin Andrey A.
Published: January 2022

The work provides experimental data of the methyl trifluoroacetate (MeTFA)—2,2,2‐trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) mixture distillation process in the presence of N‐Methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP) at atmospheric pressure (99.2 kPa) and within a temperature range of T ≤ 230°C. Forming PIL between TFA and NMP (methylpyrrolidonium trifluoroacetate [HNMP]+[CF3COO]−) leads to a significant volatility increase of the MeTFA relative to TFA. The pure MeTFA was recovered from the MeTFA‐TFA‐[HNMP]+[CF3COO]− mixture in the quantity of 70% from the MeTFA initial mole charge; the total mole recovery was 100%. A significant result of the above experiment is that TFA mole recovery from the MeTFA‐TFA‐[HNMP]+[CF3COO]− mixture within a temperature range of T < 187°C exceeds 96%. The distillation of TFA and NMP mixture at T ≤ 230°C demonstrates strong binding of TFA anion that can be seen from the final liquid phase composition TFA/NMP ≈ 0.53/0.47. At the concentration and the temperature ranges under study, there is no NMP in the vapour phase.
Cross‐reactivity between tick and wasp venom can contribute to frequent wasp sensitization in patients with the α‐Gal syndrome
Authors: Kiewiet Mensiena B. G. , Perusko Marija , Grundström Jeanette , Hamsten Carl , Starkhammar Maria , Apostolovic Danijela , van Hage Marianne
Published: January 2022

Background

α‐Gal syndrome (AGS) is a food allergy with severe delayed allergic reactions, mediated by IgE‐reactivity to galactose‐α1,3‐galactose (α‐Gal). AGS is strongly associated with tick bites. An increased incidence of venom sensitization has been found in AGS patients. Here, we evaluated the frequency of wasp sensitization in Swedish AGS patients and the possible cross‐reactivity between wasp venom and tick proteins.

Methods

Sera from 136 Swedish AGS patients and 29 wasp‐positive non‐AGS control sera were analyzed for IgE‐reactivity against wasp venom (Vespula spp.), the European tick Ixodes ricinus (Streptavidin ImmunoCAP), α‐Gal and total IgE by ImmunoCAP. The presence of α‐Gal on wasp venom proteins (Vespula vulgaris) was investigated by western blot (WB), and possible cross‐reactivity between wasp venom and tick proteins by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and WB. Involvement of cross‐reactive carbohydrate domains (CCDs) was also assessed.

Results

Wasp sensitization was present in 54% of AGS patients, although the IgE levels were low. Wasp sensitized patients had higher IgE levels to α‐Gal and total IgE levels compared to non‐wasp sensitized AGS patients. α‐Gal was not detected in wasp venom, but cross‐reactivity between wasp and tick proteins was demonstrated which was not dependent on CCDs. The same cross‐reactivity was also observed in the control sera. Furthermore, 17 putative cross‐reactive peptides were identified using an in silico approach.

Conclusions

For the first time, cross‐reactivity between wasp venom and tick proteins has been described. This may be a reason why the majority of Swedish AGS patients, who have all been tick bitten, are also sensitized against wasp.
A Potential MDM2 Inhibitor Formed by Restoring the Native Conformation of the p53 α‐Helical Peptide on Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Qi , Sheng Lingjie , Liu Yuan‐Yuan , Gao Tiange , Wang Haifang , Liu Yuanfang , Cao Aoneng
Published: January 2022

Many efforts have been made to develop inhibitors of MDM2 as potential drugs for cancer therapy. In this work, we use our previous developed conformational engineering technique to stabilize the binding conformation of the p53 transcription activation domain (TAD) peptide on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), and create an AuNP‐based anti‐MDM2 artificial antibody, denoted as anti‐MDM2 Goldbody, that specifically binds MDM2. Though the free TAD peptide is unstructured, circular dichroism (CD) spectra confirm that its α‐helical conformation in the original p53 protein is restored on the anti‐MDM2 Goldbody, and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) experiments confirm that there is strong specific interaction between the anti‐MDM2 Goldbody and MDM2, demonstrating the anti‐MDM2 Goldbody as a potential inhibitor of MDM2. This work demonstrates that the conformational engineering technique is not limited to the antigen‐antibody systems, but can also be applied more widely in other protein‐protein interfaces to create increasingly more artificial proteins for various biomedical applications.
The association between colors, color preferences, and emotions among Japanese students: From elementary school to university
Authors: Baniani Mahshid
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study is to identify whether young children can associate colors with emotion, and if there are any changes across development. For this purpose, a study consisting of three tasks (questionnaire regarding color preferences, color‐emotion matching task, and color assessment task) was designed, and was conducted among four age groups of elementary school aged 7–12 (M = 8.11), junior high school aged 13–15 (M = 14.1), high school aged 16–18 (M = 17.1), and university students aged 19–23 (M = 20.1). In total, 172 subjects participated in this study. Red and blue hues were most favorite colors across all age groups. However, gold was the most favorite color among elementary school students (p < 0.05). White was the most popular color for the bedroom (p < 0.01), followed by light blue. In the color‐emotion matching task, elementary school students associated all the negative emotions with black (p < 0.01). In addition, elementary school students used a greater number of color varieties for the emotions compared to other participants, and the number of color varieties decreased as the subjects grow older. From the color assessment task, it was observed that elementary school students are the only participants who assessed all the colors with all the feelings of very unhappy/unhappy, neutral, and happy/very happy (p < 0.05). The results further suggested that junior high, high school, and university students seem to agree more on color assessments and the results are quite similar across these age groups. In sum, it was concluded that children do associate colors with emotion. Moreover, the changes across development were observed in all the three tasks.
Cryosectioning
Authors: Ross Mark A. , Kohut Lauryn , Loughran Patricia A.
Published: January 2022

The protocols presented here describe steps for cryosectioning tissue samples to be used in light microscopy methodologies including histochemistry, enzyme immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Cryosectioning