bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Soft, All‐Polymer Optoelectronic Tactile Sensor for Stick‐Slip Detection
Authors: Han Michael Seokyoung , Harnett Cindy K. 
Published: July 2022

AbstractThe mechanoreceptors of the human tactile sensory system contribute to natural grasping manipulations in everyday life. However, in the case of robot systems, attempts to emulate humans’ dexterity are still limited by tactile sensory feedback. In this work, a soft optical lightguide is applied as an afferent nerve fiber in a tactile sensory system. A skin‐like soft silicone material is combined with a bristle friction model, which is capable of fast and easy fabrication. Due to this novel design, the soft sensor can provide not only normal force (up to 5 Newtons) but also lateral force information generated by stick‐slip processes. Through a static force test and slip motion test, its ability to measure normal forces and to detect stick‐slip events is demonstrated. Finally, using a robotic gripper, real‐time control applications are investigated where the sensor helps the gripper apply sufficient force to grasp objects without slipping.
A Facile Strategy to Densify Aligned CNT Films with Significantly Enhanced Thermal Conductivity and Mechanical Strength
Authors: Wu Yongdong , Ma Qiangqiang , Liang Ting , Yao Yimin , Li Junhong , Zeng Xiaoliang , Xu Jian‐Bin , Sun Rong 
Published: July 2022

AbstractAligned carbon nanotube (CNT) films with outstanding thermal and mechanical properties are promising for thermal management in electronics and mechanical enhancement in composites. One main challenge toward aligned CNT films is the loose stacking and unsatisfactory orientation of individual CNTs within the macroscopic assemblies, resulting in unsatisfactory performance. In this study, a facile strategy to densify commercial aligned CNT films with nearly doubled stacking density increasing from 0.63 to 1.17 g·cm−3, where the densification process involves infiltration of ethanol, CNT protonation along with mechanical stretching, is proposed. The densification strategy makes CNTs compactly aligned at the macro level, and enables CNTs to undergo spatial reorganization at the microscopic level simultaneously, contributing to a 125.9% and 680% enhancement of in‐plane thermal conductivity (357.1 W·m−1·K−1) and tensile strength (281.7 MPa) in densified CNT films, respectively. The densified CNT films also exhibit synchronous temperature variations with the heat source and excellent reliability in harsh environments, showing great potential in thermal management applications. This study provides effective route for driving commercial CNT films in thermal management, and contributes new ideas for the performance regulation of other carbon‐based macroscopic assemblies.
Bismuth‐Noble Metal Alloy Nanostructures Prepared by Colloidal Chemical Routes for Use in Hydrogen Evolution and Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysis: Bi‐Pt Versus Bi‐Pd
Authors: Mourdikoudis Stefanos , Regner Jakub , Gusmão Rui , Sofer Zdeněk 
Published: July 2022

AbstractCompositional and morphological tuning of bismuth‐based nanomaterials is crucial to improve and broaden the application of such structures in a range of electrocatalytic reactions. Nanostructures composed of Pt‐Bi and Pd‐Bi alloys in different elemental proportions and shapes are produced by solvothermal and hydrothermal chemical routes at moderate temperatures. The alloying of cost‐effective bismuth with platinum is found to be much more efficient than that with palladium for the boosting of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Interestingly, Pt‐rich Pt‐Bi structures with irregular‐shaped thin morphologies are more suitable for HER, whereas cubic‐like Pt‐Bi nanostructures prove to be better catalysts for the ORR. The higher mass activity of Pt‐Bi alloys in ORR than that of pure Bi and Pd‐Bi alloys as well as the low HER overpotentials, which are comparable with benchmark 10% Pt/C catalysts, are attributed to synergistic effects, due to the coexistence and satisfactory degree of alloying between both metals.
CoV‐LDH‐Derived CoP2 Active Sites and ZnxCd1−xS Solid‐Solution Ingeniously Constructed S‐Scheme Heterojunction for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Guo Xin , Chang Cancan , Wang Guorong , Hao Xuqiang , Jin Zhiliang 
Published: July 2022

AbstractEstablishing efficient charge‐transfer channels that provide sufficient active sites to enhance the activity of photocatalysts remains a challenging problem. In this work, n‐type CoP2 semiconductors as one of the main active components for efficient hydrogen evolution are obtained from bulk P‐CoV‐LDH. The emergence of CoP2 semiconductors not only enriches the active sites but also carries a large amount of negatively charged P, which can act as a base to seize more protons, thereby accelerating the precipitation of hydrogen. To achieve oriented control of carrier migration, the ZnxCd1−xS solid solution is effectively combined with P‐CoV‐LDH for the first time to synthesize a highly efficient and stable S‐scheme heterojunction photocatalyst. The best P‐CoV‐LDH/ZnxCd1−xS 30% composite has a hydrogen evolution rate of 1244.3 µmol without noble metal additives, which is 6.4 times more than ZnxCd1−xS. S‐scheme heterojunctions exhibit remarkable photocarrier separation efficiency and low interfacial migration resistance.
Stepwise Size Shrinkage Cascade‐Activated Supramolecular Prodrug Boosts Antitumor Immunity by Eliciting Pyroptosis
Authors: Liang Meng‐Yun , Zhang Meng‐Jie , Qiu Wei , Xiao Yao , Ye Meng‐Jie , Xue Peng , Kang Yue‐Jun , Sun Zhi‐Jun , Xu Zhigang 
Published: July 2022

AbstractEffective pyroptosis induction is a promising approach to potentiate cancer immunotherapy. However, the actual efficacy of the present pyroptosis inducers can be weakened by successive biological barriers. Here, a cascaded pH‐activated supramolecular nanoprodrug (PDNP) with a stepwise size shrinkage property is developed as a pyroptosis inducer to boost antitumor immune response. PDNPs comprise multiple poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and doxorubicin (DOX) drug–polymer hybrid repeating blocks conjugated by ultra‐pH‐sensitive benzoic imine (bzi) and hydrazone (hyd) bonds. The PEG units endow its “stealth” property and ensure sufficient tumor accumulation. A sharp switch in particle size and detachment of PEG shielding can be triggered by the acidic extracellular pH to achieve deep intratumor penetration. Following endocytosis, second‐stage size switching can be initiated by more acidic endolysosomes, and PDNPs disassociate into ultrasmall cargo to ensure accurate intracellular delivery. The cascaded pH activation of PDNPs can effectively elicit gasdermin E (GSDME)‐mediated pyroptosis to enhance the immunological response. In combination with anti‐PD‐1 antibody, PDNPs can amplify tumor suppression and extend the survival of mice, which suggests a powerful immune adjuvant and pave the way for high‐efficiency immune checkpoint blockade therapy.
Lightest Metal Leads to Big Change: Lithium‐Mediated Metal Oxides for Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Jiang Siqi , Suo Hongli , Zheng Xiaobo , Zhang Teng , Lei Yaojie , Wang Yun‐Xiao , Lai Wei‐Hong , Wang Guoxiu 
Published: July 2022

AbstractAs the lightest metal, the reversible insertion/extraction properties of lithium have been key findings in lithium metal oxide chemistry. Lithium has been widely used in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and the reaction mechanism of lithium‐mediated metal oxides has both similarities and uniqueness compared to typical dual metal oxides. Notably, the insertion/extraction of lithium during the OER is also crucial for the construction of novel surface reconstruction models. This review aims to provide the concepts of general OER pathways and key features of dual metal oxides for the OER. As a comparison then the development of lithium metal oxides for the OER is introduced and the chemistry underlying lithium metal oxide catalysts is unveiled. This review also examines the challenges remaining for the relevant catalysts, with prospects for further improving their OER activities.
Screening certain mung bean varieties against thrips (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) and exploration of resistance sources
Authors: Yasmin Sabera , Ali Mohammed , Rahman Md. Mizanur , Akter Mst. Salma , Paul Alok Kumar , Akter Mst. Munjuri , Latif Md. Abdul 
Published: July 2022

AbstractPlant biophysical and biochemical properties play important roles to explore the resistance sources against thrips. In this study, we investigated the effect of trichomes and biochemical contents of 11 mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) varieties to search for the most resistant varieties against the incidence and damage of two thrips species, Megalurothrips usitatus and Thrips palmi. Resistance was quantified by examining the incidence of the thrips on different plant parts regarding the trichomes and biochemical content of the varieties. Further, the extent of damage by the thrips species and the effects on yield of the selected varieties were examined. All the 11 mung bean varieties were attacked by both the thrips during vegetative and flowering stage, however, lowest incidence occurred in BARI Mung‐7 followed by BARI Mung‐8 and BU Mug 2. The lower incidence was associated with higher trichomes and biochemicals content of the same varieties, as thrips population showed significant negative relationships with trichome density, moisture, chlorophyll(a+b), potassium, and phenol content. Although several biochemicals had negative effects, the increasing total soluble sugar content in leaves increased the incidence of both M. usitatus and T. palmi. There was no variation in phosphorous content in the leaves of the 11 varieties. Significant variations were detected in damaging the flower bud, flower infestation, and shedding by thrips which affected the yield of mung bean. Negative responses of thrips to the increasing trichomes, moisture, chlorophyll, phenol, and potassium in mung bean suggest the significance of these properties to develop resistant varieties against thrips.
Improved mapping of nitrogen loss and surplus in China's maize belt
Authors: Tian Xingshuai , Zhuang Minghao , Yin Yulong , Cong Jiahui , Ying Hao , Wang Yingcheng , Cui Zhenling 
Published: July 2022

AbstractComprehensive, spatially explicit understanding of N loss from N input in China's maize (Zea mays L.) belt is needed to improve N management and develop N loss mitigation measures for specific locations. However, accurate estimation of N loss remains uncertain mainly because of spatial heterogeneity of emission factors (EFs) and activity data. Here, we built random‐forest models to predict EFs for each N loss pathway (dinitrogen, nitric oxide, nitrous oxide and ammonia emissions, nitrate leaching, and N runoff) considering soil and climate factors. We then used location‐ and crop‐specific activity data to understand N loss and surplus on a 1‐ × 1‐km grid. Results showed that the N surplus and total N loss averaged 135.4 (95% confidence interval [CI], 36.6–261.5) and 87.6 (95% CI, 32.9–162.5) kg N ha–1, respectively, and nitrate leaching and ammonia emissions were primary loss pathways. There was a significant correlation between N surplus and total N loss in spatial distribution, and regions with high N surplus and total N loss were mainly in the northern China Plain and Sichuan Basin, while regions with low surplus and loss could be found in Heilongjiang and Jilin provinces. Our results are beneficial to understand specific crop N budget and develop location‐specific N management strategies.
Two antagonistic effects of flow/mixing on reactive polymer blending
Authors: Ji Wei‐Yun , Li Tian‐Tian , Cheng Si‐Bo , Feng Lian‐Fang , Gu Xue‐Ping , Zhang Cai‐Liang , Hu Guo‐Hua 
Published: July 2022

AbstractReactive polymer blending is basically a flow/mixing‐driven process of interfacial generation, interfacial reaction for copolymer formation, and morphology development. This work shows two antagonistic effects of flow/mixing on this process: while flow/mixing promotes copolymer formation by creating interfaces and enhancing collisions between reactive groups at the interfaces, excessive flow/mixing may pull the in situ formed copolymer out of the interfaces to one of the two polymer components of the blend, especially when the copolymer becomes highly asymmetrical. As such, the copolymer may lose its compatibilization efficiency. The mixing‐driven copolymer pull‐out from the interfaces is a catastrophic process (less than a minute), despite the high viscosity of the polymer blend. It depends on the molecular architecture of the reactive compatibilizer, polymer blend composition, flow/mixing intensity, and annealing. These findings are obtained using the concept of reactive compatibilizer‐tracer and a model reactive polymer blend.
Pathogenic variants identified using whole‐exome sequencing in Chinese patients with primary ciliary dyskinesia
Authors: Ye Yutian , Huang Qijun , Chen Lipeng , Yuan Fang , Liu Shengguo , Zhang Xiangxia , Chen Rongchang , Fu Yingyun , Yue Yongjian 
Published: July 2022

AbstractThe genetic factors contributing to primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), a rare autosomal recessive disorder, remain elusive for ~20%–35% of patients with complex and abnormal clinical phenotypes. Our study aimed to identify causative variants of PCD‐associated pathogenic candidate genes using whole‐exome sequencing (WES). All patients were diagnosed with PCD based on clinical phenotype or transmission electron microscopy images of cilia. WES and bioinformatic analysis were then conducted on patients with PCD. Identified candidate variants were validated by Sanger sequencing. Pathogenicity of candidate variants was then evaluated using in silico software and the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) database. In total, 13 rare variants were identified in patients with PCD, among which were three homozygous causative variants (including one splicing variant) in the PCD‐associated genes CCDC40 and DNAI1. Moreover, two stop‐gain heterozygous variants of DNAAF3 and DNAH1 were classified as pathogenic variants based on the ACMG criteria. This study identified novel potential pathogenic genetic factors associated with PCD. Noteworthy, the patients with PCD carried multiple rare causative gene variants, thereby suggesting that known causative genes along with other functional genes should be considered for such heterogeneous genetic disorders.
An additional patient with SMAD4‐Juvenile Polyposis‐Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and connective tissue abnormalities: SMAD4 loss‐of‐function and gain‐of‐function pathogenic variants result in contrasting phenotypes
Authors: Gheewalla Gregory M. , Luther Jay , Das Saumya , Kreher Jeffrey B. , Scimone Eleanor R. , Wong Ashley W. , Lindsay Mark E. , Lin Angela E. 
Published: July 2022

AbstractLoss‐of‐function pathogenic variants in somatic and germline cells in SMAD4 may cause cancer and juvenile polyposis‐Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (SMAD4‐JP‐HHT), respectively. In a similar manner, gain‐of‐function somatic and germline pathogenic variants in SMAD4 can cause various forms of cancer as well as Myhre syndrome. The different SMAD4 molecular mechanisms result in contrasting clinical phenotypes demonstrated by SMAD4‐JP‐HHT and Myhre syndrome. We report an additional patient with SMAD4‐JP‐HHT and aortopathy, and expand the phenotype to include severe valvulopathy, cutaneous, ophthalmologic, and musculoskeletal features consistent with an inherited disorder of connective tissue. We compared this 70‐year‐old man with SMAD4‐JP‐HHT to 18 additional literature cases, and also compared patients with SMAD4‐JP‐HHT to those with Myhre syndrome. In contrast to aorta dilation, hypermobility, and loose skin in SMAD4‐JP‐HHT, Myhre syndrome has aorta hypoplasia, stiff joints, and firm skin representing an intriguing phenotypic contrast, which can be attributed to different molecular mechanisms involving SMAD4. We remind clinicians about the possibility of significant cardiac valvulopathy and aortopathy, as well as connective tissue disease in SMAD4‐JP‐HHT. Additional patients and longer follow‐up will help determine if more intensive surveillance improves care amongst these patients.
Household conditions modulate associations between cesarean delivery and childhood growth
Authors: Veile Amanda J. , Kramer Karen Leslie , Otárola‐Castillo Erik 
Published: July 2022

AbstractIntroductionCesarean delivery is associated with childhood obesity in urbanized and sanitized environments, but this is not well‐studied across broader epidemiologic settings. We examine birth mode, household conditions, and child growth in a Yucatec Maya farming community with limited sanitary infrastructure. We test the hypotheses that household infrastructure and epidemiologic conditions: (1) modulate associations between cesarean delivery and growth, and (2) are more strongly associated with growth compared to birth mode.MethodsBirth mode, household characteristics (construction materials/waste disposal/water variables) and growth were examined in 106 children (0–5 years, 3554 longitudinal observations). A household modification index (HMI) was created to indicate “baseline” (more traditional) versus “modified” (more modernized) houses. Weight/height/BMI Z‐scores (WHO‐standards) were modeled with respect to HMI and birth mode using nested generalized linear mixed‐effects models. A series of interaction models were then compared.ResultsFour household modification variables (concrete roof and floor, latrine/septic tank, burning trash) were associated with greater growth gains and used to compose the HMI. Cesarean delivery was associated with slightly higher Z‐scores for most anthropometric outcomes. HMI modulated the association between birth mode and children's weight and height, but not BMI, trajectories. Weight and BMI Z‐scores, but not height Z‐scores, were higher at all ages under high HMI (“modified”) versus low HMI (“baseline”) conditions regardless of birth mode.ConclusionsUnderstudied household conditions can modulate the association between cesarean delivery and childhood growth. These findings contribute to a large body of literature linking cesarean delivery to a variety of child health outcomes including obesity.
Neighborhood segregation and cognitive change: Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Besser Lilah M. , Meyer Oanh L. , Jones Miranda R. , Tran Duyen , Booker Michaela , Mitsova Diana , Peterson Rachel , Galvin James E. , Bateman James R. , Hayden Kathleen M. , Hughes Timothy M. 
Published: July 2022

AbstractIntroductionWe investigated associations between neighborhood racial/ethnic segregation and cognitive change.MethodsWe used data (n = 1712) from the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. Racial/ethnic segregation was assessed using Getis‐Ord (Gi*) z‐scores based on American Community Survey Census tract data (higher Gi* = greater spatial clustering of participant's race/ethnicity). Global cognition and processing speed were assessed twice, 6 years apart. Adjusted multilevel linear regression tested associations between Gi* z‐scores and cognition. Effect modification by race/ethnicity, income, education, neighborhood socioeconomic status, and neighborhood social support was tested.ResultsParticipants were on average 67 years old; 43% were White, 11% Chinese, 29% African American/Black, 17% Hispanic; 40% had high neighborhood segregation (Gi* > 1.96). African American/Black participants with greater neighborhood segregation had greater processing speed decline in stratified analyses, but no interactions were significant.DiscussionSegregation was associated with greater processing speed declines among African American/Black participants. Additional follow‐ups and comprehensive cognitive batteries may further elucidate these findings.Highlights
A study of neighborhood racial/ethnic segregation and change in cognition.
Study was based on a racially and geographically diverse, population‐based cohort of older adults.
Racial/ethnic segregation (clustering) was measured by the Getis‐ord (Gi*) statistic.
We saw faster processing speed decline among Black individuals in segregated neighborhoods.
Transition‐Metal‐Free Synthesis of Functionalized Quinolines by Direct Conversion of β‐O‐4 Model Compounds
Authors: Ding Yangming , Guo Tenglong , Li Zhewei , Zhang Bo , Kühn Fritz E. , Liu Chang , Zhang Jian , Xu Dezhu , Lei Ming , Zhang Tao , Li Changzhi 
Published: July 2022

AbstractDirect production of heterocyclic aromatic compounds from lignin β‐O‐4 models remains a huge challenge due to the incompatible catalysis for aryl ether bonds cleavage and heterocyclic ring formation. Herein, the first example of quinoline synthesis from β‐O‐4 model compounds by a one‐pot cascade reaction is reported in yields up to 89 %. The reaction pathway involves selective cleavage of C−O bonds, dehydrogenation, aldol condensation, C−N bond formation along with heterocyclic aromatic ring construction. The control experiments suggest that both imine and chalcone were identified as the key intermediates, and the rate determining step as well as the preferred pathway were experimentally clarified and supported by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Based on this protocol, the conversion of β‐O‐4 polymer delivered 56 wt % yield of quinoline derivative in three steps. This transformation provides a potential petroleum‐independent choice for heterocyclic aromatic chemicals.
Divergent Synthesis of Fused Tetracyclic Heterocycles from Diarylalkynes Enabled by the Selective Insertion of Isocyanide
Authors: Li Meng , Zhang Ruixue , Gao Qiushan , Jiang Huanfeng , Lei Ming , Wu Wanqing 
Published: July 2022

AbstractHerein, we present a direct and efficient synthesis of diverse polysubstituted fused tetracyclic heterocycles with good functional group tolerance from diarylalkynes under different palladium catalytic systems. In this chemistry, an unprecedented intermolecular nucleopalladation of diarylalkynes through the highly selective sequential double insertion of isocyanide was achieved for the first time. The practicality of this method was further demonstrated by the construction of various bioactive molecules and important structural motifs, with potential applications in materials science and biochemistry. In addition, density functional theory calculations (DFT) elucidated an interesting “Pd walk” during the cyclization process.
A Cathode Interface Layer Based on 4,5,9,10‐Pyrene Diimide for Highly Efficient Binary Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Sun Wen‐Jing , Wang Ya‐Ting , Zhang Yamin , Sun Bing , Zhang Ze‐Qi , Xiao Ming‐Jun , Li Xiang‐Yang , Huo Yong , Xin Jingming , Zhu Qinglian , Ma Wei , Zhang Hao‐Li 
Published: July 2022

AbstractEfficient cathode interfacial layers (CILs) are becoming essential elements for organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the absorption of commonly used cathode interfacial materials (CIMs) is either too weak or overlaps too much with that of photoactive materials, hindering their contribution to the light absorption. In this work, we demonstrate the construction of highly efficient CIMs based on 2,7‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4,5,9,10‐pyrene diimide (t‐PyDI) framework. By introducing amino, amino N‐oxide and quaternary ammonium bromide as functional groups, three novel self‐doped CIMs named t‐PyDIN, t‐PyDINO and t‐PyDINBr are synthesized. These CIMs are capable of boosting the device performances by broadening the absorption, forming ohmic contact at the interface of active layer and electrode, as well as facilitating electron collection. Notably, the device based on t‐PyDIN achieved a power conversion efficiency of 18.25 %, which is among the top efficiencies reported to date in binary OSCs.