bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of fatigue and the post-concussion syndrome on executive functioning in traumatic brain injury and healthy comparisons
Authors: Fry Jessica D. , Greenop Kirston , Schutte Enid
Published: November 2010

In this study, behavioural manifestations of compromised executive control, including perseveration and reduced inductive reasoning, on the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) were investigated.Performance was affected by fatigue in both a head-injured and matched population, which has implications for health care professionals involved in rehabilitation and assessment. A fatigue condition was manipulated for 15 moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) individuals through the course of a three-hour neuropsychological testing session. A comparison sample of 15 participants in a group of ‘no history of TBI’ was fatigued through the same approach. All fatigued participants (with and without TBI) displayed trends towards increased levels of perseveration and reduced inductive reasoning on the WCST. Thus, the effects of fatigue on high-level functioning are pervasive even when not head-injured. This finding supports the sub-optimal performance in cognitive skills, specifically in executive control, that is often found in fatigued people. These findings are relevant for the manner in which rehabilitation interventions and medico-legal assessments are structured. Importantly, the order of tests, their interpretation and rest sessions should be clearly indicated and interpreted in assessment reports and rehabilitation sessions.OpsommingIn hierdie studie is gedragsmanifestering in individue met gekompromitteerde uitvoerende funksionering, met inbegrip van perseverasie en verminderde induktiewe redenering, op die Wisconsin-kaartsorteringstoets (WCST), bestudeer. Die waarneming dat prestasie deur uitputting beïnvloed word in sowel normale populasies as dié met kopbeserings het implikasies vir gesondheidsorgpersoneel wat by rehabilitasie en assessering betrokke is. ’n Uitputtingstoestand is gemanipuleer vir 15 matig ernstige individue met traumatiese kopbeserings (TKB) vir die duur van ’n drie uur lange toetssessie. ’n Vergelykingsmonster van 15 deelnemers met geen geskiedenis van kopbeserings is deur dieselfde metodologie uitgeput. Alle uitgeputte deelnemers (met en sonder TKB) het ’n neiging na verhoogde vlakke van perseverasie en verminderde induktiewe redenering op die WCST getoon. Die impak van uitputting op hoëvlak-funksionering is dus verreikend, selfs in gevalle waar geen kopbesering opgedoen is nie. Die bevinding ondersteun suboptimale prestasie in kognitiewe vaardighede, en spesifiek in uitvoerende beheer, wat dikwels onder uitgeputte mense gevind word. Hierdie bevindinge is van belang vir die manier waarop rehabilitasie-intervensies en regsgeneeskundige assesserings gestruktureer word. Die volgorde van toetse, die interpretasie daarvan en die rusperiodes moet duidelik in assesseringsverslae en rehabilitasiesessies aangetoon en geïnterpreteer word.
Evaluation of malaria prevention strategies during pregnancy in Ndola, Zambia
Authors: Mulamba Mwamba , Mash Bob
Published: November 2010

Background: Malaria in pregnancy is associated with many negative outcomes for the woman,foetus and neonate. Intermittent preventive treatment during pregnancy (IPTp) using three doses of sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (SP), insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spray (IRS), constitute the main strategies used to prevent malaria. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies for the reduction of malaria prevalence in pregnant women.Methods: A questionnaire on socio-demographic information, history of malaria during current pregnancy and prevention strategies used was administered to 450 consecutive patients admitted into labour wards at three local clinics. From the antenatal cards, information was collected on the last menstrual period, date of each dose of SP taken, gravidity, and HIV status. A blood slide to detect Plasmodium was then collected from each woman after consent.Results: Of the participants in the study, 2.4% had a positive blood slide at term and 15.8% reported malaria during pregnancy. All the participants took at least one dose of SP with 87.6% completing the stipulated three doses. The mean gestational ages for each dose were 22.1 (SD 4.6), 29.1 (SD 4.4)and 34.4 (SD 3.9) weeks for the first, second and third dose respectively. With regard to ITNs, 79.5% had one, but only 74.1% used it regularly. IRS was completed in all three of the clinics’ catchment areas. Only 23.4% used commercial insecticide.Conclusion: The measured prevalence of malaria at term in Ndola was remarkably low, although the self-reported rate during pregnancy was still high. The national targets for accessing IPTp were exceeded, although the timing of each dose needs to be improved. Access to ITNs was high, but usage needs to increase.
Are Patients With Cancer Best Managed in a Clinical Trial?
Authors: Shalowitz David I. , Miller Franklin G.
Published: May 2024

This Viewpoint analyzes how the NCCN’s boxed statement that all cancer is best managed in a clinical trial cannot be applied to all patients and calls for its removal from its clinical practice guidelines.
Survival Benefit Associated With Participation in Clinical Trials of Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Iskander Renata , Moyer Hannah , Vigneault Karine , Mahmud Salaheddin M. , Kimmelman Jonathan
Published: May 2024

Importance

Many cancer clinical investigators view clinical trials as offering better care for patients than routine clinical care. However, definitive evidence of clinical benefit from trial participation (hereafter referred to as the participation effect) has yet to emerge.

Objective

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the evidence examining whether patient participation in cancer trials was associated with greater survival benefit compared with routine care.

Data Sources

Studies were found through PubMed and Embase (January 1, 2000, until August 31, 2022), as well as backward and forward citation searching.

Study Selection

Studies were included that compared overall survival of trial participants and routine care patients.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Data extraction and methodological quality assessment were completed by 2 independent coders using Covidence software. Data were pooled using a random-effects model and analyzed based on the quality of the comparison between trial participants and routine care patients (ie, extent to which studies controlled for bias and confounders).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The hazard ratio (HR) for overall survival of trial participants vs routine care patients.

Results

Thirty-nine publications were included, comprising 85 comparisons of trial participants and routine care patients. The meta-analysis revealed a statistically significant overall survival benefit for trial participants (HR, 0.76 [95% CI, 0.69-0.82]) when all studies were pooled, regardless of design or quality. However, survival benefits diminished in study subsets that matched trial participants and routine care patients for eligibility criteria (HR, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.75-0.97]) and disappeared when only high-quality studies were pooled (HR, 0.91 [95% CI, 0.80-1.05]). They also disappeared when estimates were adjusted for potential publication bias (HR, 0.94 [95% CI, 0.86-1.03]).

Conclusions and Relevance

Many studies suggest a survival benefit for cancer trial participants. However, these benefits were not detected in studies using designs addressing important sources of bias and confounding. Pooled results of high-quality studies are not consistent with a beneficial effect of trial participation on its own.
Edible Cannabis Legalization and Cannabis Poisonings in Older Adults
Authors: Stall Nathan M. , Shi Shengli , Malikov Kamil , Wang Sping , Rochon Paula A. , Hillmer Michael P. , Zipursky Jonathan S.
Published: May 2024

This cross-sectional study examines the association between edible cannabis legalization and emergency department visits for cannabis poisonings in older adults.
Self-Reported Social Determinants of Health and Area-Level Social Vulnerability
Authors: Brignone Emily , LeJeune Keith , Mihalko Amanda E. , Shannon Amy L. , Sinoway Lawrence I.
Published: May 2024

Importance

Many health care systems are investing resources in identifying social determinants of health (SDoH) needs and facilitating interventions among the populations they serve. Because self-reported SDoH information is lacking, area-level measures are often used to estimate needs and direct resources.

Objective

To describe the large-scale deployment of SDoH assessments by a health system and determine the extent to which self-reported SDoH needs identified therein are associated with census tract–level social vulnerability measured using the Social Vulnerability Index (SVI).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study assessed SDoH needs between January 1, 2020, and April 30, 2023, in both payer and clinical care settings. Modalities included telephonic outreach, face-to-face clinical interactions, self-entry into a tablet or kiosk, and web-based survey tools. Participants included individuals who responded to the assessment and had sufficient information for census tract identification. Respondents included both Highmark Health Plan members and nonmembers. Health plan members responded to the assessment through health plan programs or platforms, and both members and nonmembers responded to assessments during inpatient or outpatient encounters with the affiliated health system.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Overall and domain-specific SDoH needs self-reported through assessments, and severity and complexity of needs identified. Residential social vulnerability measures included overall SVI and the 4 conceptual themes comprising overall SVI.

Results

In total, 841 874 assessments were recorded for 401 697 individuals (55.1% women; median [IQR] age, 55 [41-70] years). Social determinants of health needs were identified in 120 769 assessments (14.3%). Across all SDoH domains, increasing SVI was associated with a higher positivity rate (eg, 11.2% of those residing in the lowest-risk SVI quintile reported a need compared with 22.7% among those residing in the highest-risk quintile). Associations varied by SDoH domain and SVI theme. After adjusting for demographic and screening characteristics, odds of positive screening among those residing in the highest-risk SVI quintile were 1.74 (95% CI, 1.62-1.86) to 3.73 (95% CI, 3.48-4.00) times the odds among those residing in lowest risk quintile.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study, the overall level of SDoH needs generally corresponded to area-level vulnerability. Some SDoH domains appeared far more sensitive to community characteristics than others. Notably, even among individuals from the highest-risk areas, the positive screening rate was roughly 1 in 4. These findings underscore the importance of individual-level SDoH data for service provision planning and health services research.
Risk and protective factors in risk assessment: Predicting inpatient aggression in adult males detained in a forensic mental health setting
Authors: Ireland Jane L. , Levtova Yara , Abi Semaan Christa‐Maria , Steene Lisa M. B. , Henrich Sören , Gaylor Lisa , Driemel Lina , Volz Sophie , Homann Julia , Dickopf Mareike , Greenwood Leah , Chu Simon
Published: May 2024

Structured clinical risk assessments represent a preferred means of assessing levels of aggression risk at different times and in different individuals. Increasing attention has been given to capturing protective factors, with sound risk assessment critical to high‐secure forensic mental health care. The aim was to assess the predictive value of the HCR‐20v3 for aggression risk and the long‐term care pilot version of the SAPROF (the SAPROF‐LC‐pilot) in a high‐secure forensic mental health inpatient population and to determine the incremental value of protective over risk factors. Participants were adult males detained in a high secure forensic mental health service, with a primary diagnosis of schizophrenia and/or personality disorder. The focus was on examining hospital based aggression (self‐ and other‐directed) at two time points; up to 6 months (T1) and between 7 and 12 months (T2). The HCR‐20V3 and SAPROF‐LC‐pilot demonstrated good predictive validity but with variability across subscales and aggression types/periods. Historical factors of the HCR‐20V3 and External factors of the SAPROF‐LC‐pilot failed to predict, aside from a medium effect at T1 for verbal aggression and self‐harm, for Historical factors. There was evidence for protective factors adding to prediction over risk factors alone, with the integration of protective and risk factors into a risk judgement particularly helpful in improving prediction accuracy. Protective factors contributed to risk estimates and particularly if integrated with risk factors. Combining risk and protective factors has clear predictive advantages, ensuring that protective factors are not supplementary but important to the aggression assessment process.
Predicting Gout Flares in People Starting Allopurinol Using the Start‐Low Go‐Slow Dose Escalation Strategy
Authors: Stamp Lisa K. , Horne Anne , Mihov Borislav , Drake Jill , Haslett Janine , Chapman Peter , Frampton Christopher , Dalbeth Nicola
Published: May 2024

Objective

The study objective was to determine predictors of gout flare when commencing allopurinol using the “start‐low go‐slow” dose escalation strategy.

Methods

A post hoc analysis of a 12‐month double‐blind placebo‐controlled noninferiority trial with participants randomized 1:1 to colchicine 0.5 mg daily or placebo for the first six months was undertaken. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify independent predictors of gout flares in the first and last six months of the trial.

Results

Multivariable analysis revealed a significant association between risk of a gout flare in the first six months and flare in the month before starting allopurinol (odds ratio [OR] 2.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.36–5.17) and allopurinol 100 mg starting dose (OR 3.21, 95% CI 1.41–7.27). The predictors of any gout flares in the last six months of the trial, after stopping colchicine or placebo, were having received colchicine (OR 2.95, 95% CI 1.48–5.86), at least one flare in the month before stopping study drug (OR 5.39, 95% CI 2.21–13.15), and serum urate ≥0.36 mmol/L at month 6 (OR 2.85, 95% CI 1.14–7.12).

Conclusion

Anti‐inflammatory prophylaxis when starting allopurinol using the “start‐low go‐slow” dose escalation strategy may be best targeted at those who have had a gout flare in the month before starting allopurinol and are commencing allopurinol 100 mg daily. For those with ongoing gout flares during the first six months of starting allopurinol who have not yet achieved serum urate target, a longer period of prophylaxis may be required.
Ultra‐Fast Shape‐Deformation and Highly‐Sensitive Detection of 4D Printed Electromagnetic Architectures
Authors: Zhang Shanfei , Xu Yizhuo , Li Zhuofan , Li Yike , Lu Zhongjiu , Chen Xiaojun , Chen Peng , Chen Manhui , Zhang Pengyu , Cai Chao , Wang Qi , Su Bin
Published: May 2024

4D printing is widely used in soft actuators, flexible electronic devices, and soft robotics. However, existing 4D printed architectures suffer from drawbacks such as long shape‐deformation response time or low sensitivity to external stimuli, which greatly limit their applications. To address these shortcomings, 4D printed electromagnetic architectures (EMAs) with both ultra‐fast shape‐deformation and highly‐sensitive detection capabilities have been proposed in this study. The EMA is composed of a 4D printed polymeric scaffold, along with magnetic and conductive parts. Experiments show that the EMA exhibits not only an ultra‐fast shape‐deformation response time as low as 0.007 s but also a high sensitivity to detect an external pressure down to 0.4 Pa, which is beyond records of all current 4D printing reports. Numerical simulation reveals the rapid shape‐deformation and sensing mechanism of EMAs. The effects of cell structures on the performances of EMAs are investigated by parameter optimization. Finally, a “sensing‐to‐deforming” system has been demonstrated, which can smartly distinguish objects by pressures and then trap or release them by the shape deformation. This work realized the effective coupling of ultra‐rapid shape‐deformation and ultra‐low stress sensing of 4D printed architectures and provided an effective method for integrated development of smart devices in deformation and sensing.
Directional Charge Carrier Management Enabled by Orderly Arranged Perovskite Heterodomain with Defined Size for Self‐Powered Photodetectors
Authors: Bao Yaqi , Li Maoxin , Jin Hangfan , Wang Xiaobo , Zeng Jie , Feng Yang , Hui Wei , Wang Dourong , Gu Lei , Zhang Jie , Hua Yikun , Wang Xiao , Xu Baomin , Chen Wei , Wu Zhongbin , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter , Song Lin
Published: May 2024

Perovskite planar heterojunction is reported to promote charge‐carrier separation at the interface due to the introduced built‐in potential, leading to improved charge‐carrier harvesting. However, the possible diffusion of charge carriers along the film lateral will increase their travel distance to respective electrodes, resulting in increased recombination probabilities. Constructing independent transport channels for positive and negative charge carriers individually is an efficient way to optimize the transport in the perovskite layer and thereby to achieve enhanced device performance. Here, a solution‐based strategy is proposed to fabricate lateral bulk heterojunction (BHJ) by arranging methylammonium‐based and formamidinium‐based perovskites alternately in an ordered array with controllable domains. The structure of perovskite heterodomain directs charge carrier transport along the film normal and limits in‐plane charge carrier diffusion. Moreover, the ordered perovskite array is found to greatly increase light harvesting. Consequently, the self‐powered photodetector based on the perovskite heterodomain with a thickness of only 250 nm achieves a specific detectivity exceeding 1 × 1014 Jones for weak light over the whole visible light spectrum. This work provides guidance toward the fabrication of perovskite lateral BHJ using solution processing, meeting the requirements not only for charge‐carrier manipulation but also for light management.
19.36% Efficiency Organic Solar Cells Based on Low‐Cost Terpolymer Donors with Simple Molecular Structures
Authors: Wu Xin , Zhang Xixi , Zhang Jinyuan , Wu Yilei , Li Jing , Kong Xiaolei , Li Zhenyu , Zhang Xinjia , Li Xinrui , Li Aoxiang , Yang Guang , Sun Chenkai
Published: May 2024

Low cost and high performance are key elements for the industrialization of organic solar cells (OSCs). In view of this, developing highly‐efficient organic photovoltaic molecules with simple chemical structure is one of the most effective countermeasures. Herein, three simple‐structure terpolymers PTQ12‐5, PTQ12‐10, and PTQ12‐15 are designed and synthesized, by embedding difluoro‐substituted bithiophene (2T‐2F) unit into the backbone of low‐cost and high‐efficiency polymer PTQ10. The synthesis of three terpolymers contains only two‐step synthetic routes and over 85% synthetic yields from cheap raw compounds, thus exhibiting distinctly low‐cost characteristic. Remarkably, PTQ12‐5 shows significantly higher absorbance coefficient and hole mobility than PTQ10. Consequently, PTQ12‐5‐based OSCs shows more efficient exciton dissociation and charge transfer, suppressed carrier recombination, tighter molecular π‐π stacking, and faster and more balanced charge transport, thus demonstrates a significantly improved efficiency of 18.77% than that of PTQ10‐based device (18.03%). Moreover, an outstanding efficiency of 19.36% is achieved in PTQ12‐5‐based ternary device by further modulating the energy level alignment and blending features of photoactive molecules, which is the highest efficiency of OSCs based on low‐cost polymers to date. This work has significant implications for guiding the design of low‐cost and high‐performance organic photovoltaic materials.
Advanced Structural Engineering Design for Tailored Microporous Structure via Adjustable Graphite Sheet Angle to Enhance Sodium‐Ion Storage in Anthracite‐Based Carbon Anode
Authors: Zhao Yanhong , Hu Zhuang , Zhou Wang , Gao Peng , Liu Zhixiao , Liu Jinshui , Fan Changling , Liu Jilei
Published: May 2024

Carbon material has emerged as a highly promising anode for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to its abundance of resources, cost‐effectiveness, and high carbon yield. This work elaborately designs the precursor structure for the self‐assembly of melamine‐cyanuric acid on the anthracite surface through hydrogen bonding, and successfully constructs N‐doped carbon with tailored microstructure and expanded interlayer spacing. Serving as anode for SIBs, the optimized sample delivers high specific capacity (371.3 mAh g−1 at 0.05 A g−1), superior rate capability (295.8 mAh g−1 at 10.0 A g−1), and excellent ultra‐long cycling performance (the retention of 91.5% after 3000 cycles at 0.5 A g−1). The systematic investigations reveal the enhancement of sodium‐ion storage in the low‐voltage plateau region involving the interlayer intercalation coupled with nanopores filling. It is discovered that the microporous structure formed by the appropriate graphite sheet angle influences the migration and storage of sodium ions. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the adsorption capacity for sodium ion is enhanced and the migration energy barrier perpendicular to the graphite layer is reduced at the appropriate angle of 8°. This study provides novel insights into the sodium‐ion storage mechanism, offering guidance for the better design of anthracite‐based carbon anode with superior performance.
Ultrathin Non‐van der Waals Chromium Sulfide: Liquid Phase Exfoliation, Characterization, and Self‐Powered Photoelectrochemical Photodetector Application
Authors: Su Wenjie , Kuklin Artem , Jin Linghua , Ågren Hans , Zhang Ye
Published: May 2024

In the search for new advanced 2D materials for technological applications and to expand the research of non‐van der Waals (non‐vdW) 2D electronic devices, this study presents a novel strategy for liquid phase exfoliation (LPE) of non‐vdW Cr2S3 to produce Cr2S3 nanosheets (NSs). By utilizing N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP), bulk Cr2S3 is separated along the (001) plane, resulting in the formation of NSs with an average thickness of ≈3 nm. Various characterization techniques are applied to the Cr2S3 material before and after LPE. Subsequently, the obtained Cr2S3 NSs are integrated into a photoelectrochemical (PEC)‐type photodetector (PD) to evaluate the photoelectric conversion efficiency under varying conditions. The findings indicate that the developed PD exhibits a distinct self‐powered photodetection capability with a photocurrent (Pph) of 39.5 nA cm−2, a photoresponsivity (Rph) of 622 nA W−1, and a detectivity (D*) of 0.5 × 107 Jones under 350 nm irradiation at 0 V. Moreover, the PD demonstrates rapid response time (0.06 s) and good long‐term stability (over 15 days), thus providing valuable insight for the advancement of non‐vdW Cr2S3‐based optoelectronic devices.
Oral Administration Properties Evaluation of Three Milk‐Derived Extracellular Vesicles Based on Ultracentrifugation Extraction Methods
Authors: Xia Bozhang , Hu Runjing , Chen Junge , Shan Shaobo , Xu Fengfei , Zhang Gang , Zhou Ziran , Fan Yubo , Hu Zhongbo , Liang Xing‐Jie
Published: May 2024

Milk‐derived extracellular vesicles (M‐EVs) are low‐cost, can be prepared in large quantities, and can cross the gastrointestinal barrier for oral administration. However, the composition of milk is complex, and M‐EVs obtained by different extraction methods may affect their oral delivery. Based on this, a new method for extracting M‐EVs based on cryogenic freezing treatment (Cryo‐M‐EVs) is proposed and compared with the previously reported acetic acid treatment (Acid‐M‐EVs) method and the conventional ultracentrifugation method (Ulltr‐M‐EVs). The new method simplifies the pretreatment step and achieves 25‐fold and twofold higher yields than Acid‐M‐EVs and Ulltr‐M‐EVs. And it is interesting to note that Cryo‐M‐EVs and Acid‐M‐EVs have higher cellular uptake efficiency, and Cryo‐M‐EVs present the best transepithelial transport effect. After oral administration of the three M‐EVs extracted by three methods in mice, Cryo‐M‐EVs effectively successfully cross the gastrointestinal barrier and achieve hepatic accumulation, whereas Acid‐M‐EVs and Ultr‐M‐EVs mostly reside in the intestine. The M‐EVs obtained by the three extraction methods show a favorable safety profile at the cellular as well as animal level. Therefore, when M‐EVs obtained by different extraction methods are used for oral drug delivery, their accumulation properties at different sites can be utilized to better deal with different diseases.
Mott–Schottky Construction Boosted Plasmon Thermal and Electronic Effects on the Ag/CoV‐LDH Nanohybrids for Highly‐Efficient Water Oxidation
Authors: Lu Xuyun , Ma Zhangyu , Chang Yanan , Wang Shasha , Li Xiaoxuan , Xu Dongdong , Bao Jianchun , Liu Ying
Published: May 2024

Mott–Schottky construction and plasmon excitation represent two highly‐efficient and closely‐linked coping strategies to the high energy loss of oxygen evolution reaction (OER), but the combined effect has rarely been investigated. Herein, with Ag nanoparticles as electronic structure regulator and plasmon exciter, Ag/CoV‐LDH@G nanohybrids (NHs) with Mott–Schottky heterojunction and notable plasmon effect are well‐designed. Combining theoretical calculations with experiments, it is found that the Mott–Schottky construction modulates the Fermi level/energy band structure of CoV‐LDH, which in turn leads to lowered d‐band center (from −0.89 to −0.93), OER energy barrier (from 6.78 to 1.31 eV), and preeminent plasmon thermal/electronic effects. The thermal effect can offset the endothermic enthalpy change of OER, promote the deprotonation of *OOH, and accelerate electron transfer kinetics. Whereas the electronic effect can increase the density of charge carriers (from 0.70 × 1020 to 1.64 × 1020 cm−3), lower the activation energy of OER (from 30.3 to 17.7 kJ mol−1). Benefiting from these favorable factors, the Ag/CoV‐LDH@G NHs show remarkable electrocatalytic performances, with an overpotential of 178 and 263 mV to afford 10 and 100 mA cm−2 for OER, respectively, and a low cell voltage of 1.42 V to drive 10 mA cm−2 for overall water splitting under near‐infrared light irradiation.
Efficient Perovskite Nanograin Light‐Emitting Diodes in Green‐to‐Blue Gamut with Co‐Additive Engineering
Authors: Jiang Maowei , Zhang Xiaomeng , Wang Feijiu
Published: May 2024

Perovskite nanograins exceeding the Bohr exciton diameter show great potential for high‐performance light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) owing to their bandgap homogeneity, spatial charge confinement, and nonlocal interaction. However, it is challenging to directly synthesize proper nanograins along with reduced crystal defects on functional substrate, and the corresponding high‐efficiency perovskite LEDs (PeLEDs) have rarely been reported. In this study, crystallization modulation for perovskites with an effective co‐additive system, including lithium bromide, p‐fluorophenethylammonium bromide, and 18‐crown‐6, is performed. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the proposed co‐additive system can synergistically retard perovskite crystallization and reduce crystal defects. Consequently, high‐quality perovskite nanograin solids (≈22.8 nm) are obtained with a high photoluminescence quantum yield (≈88%). These superior optical properties contribute to developing efficient green PeLEDs with a champion external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 28.4% and an average EQE of 27.1%. The co‐additive system can be universally applied to mixed‐halide perovskite nanograin LED, presenting a maximum EQE of 24.4%, 21.6%, 17.5%, and 11.1% for the blue device at 496, 488, 478, and 472 nm, respectively, along with a narrow spectral linewidth (17–14 nm) and stable color. These results supplement the research on high‐efficiency perovskite nanograin LEDs for multicolor displays and lighting.
In Situ Ions Induced Formation of KxF‐Rich SEI Layers toward Ultrastable Life of Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Tianqi , He Xin , Zhou Min , Ning Jing , Cao Shengling , Chen Manlin , Li Haomiao , Wang Wei , Wang Kangli , Jiang Kai
Published: May 2024

Engineering F‐rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layers is regarded as an effective strategy to enable the long‐term cycling stability of potassium‐ion batteries (KIBs). However, in the conventional KPF6 carbonate electrolytes, it is challenging to form F‐containing SEI layers due to the inability of KPF6 to decompose into KxF. Herein, AlCl3 is employed as a novel additive to change the chemical environment of the KPF6 carbonate electrolyte. First, due to the large charge‐to‐radius ratio of Al3+, the Al‐containing groups in the electrolyte can easily capture F from PF6− and accelerate the formation of KxF in SEI layer. In addition, AlCl3 also reacts with trace H2O or solvents in the electrolytes to form Al2O3, which can further act as a HF scavenger. Upon incorporating AlCl3 into conventional KPF6 carbonate electrolyte, the hard carbon (HC) anode exhibits an ultra‐long lifespan of 10000 cycles with a high coulombic efficiency of ≈100%. When coupled with perylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic dianhydride (PTCDA), the full cell exhibits a high capacity retention of 81% after 360 cycles‐significantly outperforming cells using conventional electrolytes. This research paves new avenues for advancing electrolyte engineering towards developing durable batteries tailored for large‐scale energy storage applications.
Pendant Group Functionalization of Cyclic Olefin for High Temperature and High‐Density Energy Storage
Authors: Shukla Stuti , Wu Chao , Mishra Ankit , Pan Junkun , Charnay Aaron P. , Khomane Ashish , Deshmukh Ajinkya , Zhou Jierui , Mukherjee Madhubanti , Gurnani Rishi , Rout Pragati , Casalini Riccardo , Ramprasad Rampi , Fayer Michael D. , Vashishta Priya , Cao Yang , Sotzing Gregory
Published: May 2024

High‐temperature flexible polymer dielectrics are critical for high density energy storage and conversion. The need to simultaneously possess a high bandgap, dielectric constant and glass transition temperature forms a substantial design challenge for novel dielectric polymers. Here, by varying halogen substituents of an aromatic pendant hanging off a bicyclic mainchain polymer, a class of high‐temperature olefins with adjustable thermal stability are obtained, all with uncompromised large bandgaps. Halogens substitution of the pendant groups at para or ortho position of polyoxanorborneneimides (PONB) imparts it with tunable high glass transition from 220 to 245 °C, while with high breakdown strength of 625–800 MV/m. A high energy density of 7.1 J/cc at 200 °C is achieved with p‐POClNB, representing the highest energy density reported among homo‐polymers. Molecular dynamic simulations and ultrafast infrared spectroscopy are used to probe the free volume element distribution and chain relaxations pertinent to dielectric thermal properties. An increase in free volume element is observed with the change in the pendant group from fluorine to bromine at the para position; however, smaller free volume element is observed for the same pendant when at the ortho position due to steric hindrance. With the dielectric constant and bandgap remaining stable, properly designing the pendant groups of PONB boosts its thermal stability for high density electrification.
Surface‐Level Muscle Deformation as a Correlate for Joint Torque
Authors: Alvarez Jonathan T. , de Marcillac Ariane , Jin Yichu , Gerez Lucas F. , Araromi Oluwaseun A. , Walsh Conor J.
Published: May 2024

Wearable technology excels in estimating kinematic and physiological data, but estimating biological torques remains an open challenge. Deformation of the skin above contracting muscles—surface‐level muscle deformation—has emerged as a promising signal for joint torque estimation. However, a lack of ground‐truth measures of surface‐level muscle deformation has complicated the evaluation of wearable sensors designed to measure surface‐level muscle deformation. A non‐contact methodology is proposed for ground‐truth measurement of surface‐level muscle deformation using a 2D laser profilometer. It shows how three metrics of surface‐level muscle deformation—peak radial displacement:r =0.94 ± 0.05, surface curvature:r=0.78 ± 0.10, surface strain:r =0.83 ± 0.12—correlate strongly to changes in volitional elbow torque, further exploring the impact of measurement location or joint angle on these relationships. A nonlinear, lead‐lag relationship between surface‐level muscle deformation and torque is also found. The findings suggest that surface‐level muscle deformation is a promising signal for non‐invasive, real‐time estimates of torque. By standardizing measurement, the methodology can help inform the design of future wearable sensors.
First Order Methods for Geometric Optimization of Crystals: Theoretical Derivations
Authors: Tsili Antonia , Dyer Matthew S. , Gusev Vladimir V. , Krysta Piotr , Savani Rahul
Published: May 2024

Crystal structures are important formations, bases of materials used in everyday life. A lot of effort is dedicated to the creation of new materials, starting from the study and combination of crystal structures' properties[1] through the crystals' geometric optimization. In the meantime, an equal amount of effort is dedicated to the study and development of methods employed in optimization problems; this, nevertheless, is carried out independently, in the context of computer science. There is a need, therefore, to acknowledge and highlight the overlap between the two fields, whilst creating a common language and establishing the theoretical foundations on which the optimization methods can become physically interpreted in the case of crystals. This article provides a detailed introduction to the theory behind the geometric optimization of crystals from the point of view of computer science, so as to facilitate interdisciplinary cooperation. Its target is to familiarize scientists from different fields with the problem, its parameters, and their derivations, in order to motivate their assistance in the creation, implementation, and application of new methods for the geometric optimization of crystal structures.
Androgens Modulate the Immune Profile in a Mouse Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Torstensson Sara , Ascani Angelo , Risal Sanjiv , Lu Haojiang , Zhao Allan , Espinosa Alexander , Lindgren Eva , Johansson Maria H. , Eriksson Gustaw , Barakat Maya , Karlsson Mikael C.I. , Svensson Camilla , Benrick Anna , Stener‐Victorin Elisabet
Published: May 2024

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with a low‐grade inflammation, but it is unknown how hyperandrogenism, the hallmark of PCOS, affects the immune system. Using a PCOS‐like mouse model, it is demonstrated that hyperandrogenism affects immune cell populations in reproductive, metabolic, and immunological tissues differently in a site‐specific manner. Co‐treatment with an androgen receptor antagonist prevents most of these alterations, demonstrating that these effects are mediated through androgen receptor activation. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)‐exposed mice displayed a drastically reduced eosinophil population in the uterus and visceral adipose tissue (VAT). A higher frequency of natural killer (NK) cells and elevated levels of IFN‐γ and TNF‐α are seen in uteri of androgen‐exposed mice, while NK cells in VAT and spleen displayed a higher expression level of CD69, a marker of activation or tissue residency. Distinct alterations of macrophages in the uterus, ovaries, and VAT are also found in DHT‐exposed mice and can potentially be linked to PCOS‐like traits of the model. Indeed, androgen‐exposed mice are insulin‐resistant, albeit unaltered fat mass. Collectively, it is demonstrated that hyperandrogenism causes tissue‐specific alterations of immune cells in reproductive organs and VAT, which can have considerable implications on tissue function and contribute to the reduced fertility and metabolic comorbidities associated with PCOS.
Fully Floatable Mortise‐and‐Tenon Architecture for Synergistically Photo/Sono‐Driven Evaporation Desalination and Plastic‐Enabled Value‐Added Co‐Conversion of H2O and CO2
Authors: Li Yingying , Yao Tongrong , Wang Yanqiu , Chen Jiahui , You Haining , Lu Jing , Xiong Yi , Xiong Zhongduo , Liu Jia , Qi Yajuan , Wang Wenwen , Wang Dong
Published: May 2024

Establishing an advanced ecosystem incorporating freshwater harvesting, plastic utilization, and clean fuel acquisition is profoundly significant. However, low‐efficiency evaporation, single energy utilization, and catalyst leakage severely hinder sustainable development. Herein, a nanofiber‐based mortise‐and‐tenon structural Janus aerogel (MTSJA) is strategically designed in the first attempt and supports Z‐scheme catalysts. By harnessing of the upper hydrophilic layer with hydrophilic channels embedding into the hydrophobic bottom layer to achieve tailoring bottom wettability states. MTSJA is capable of a fully‐floating function for lower heat loss, water supply, and high‐efficiency solar‐to‐vapor conversion. Benefiting from the ultrasonic cavitation effect and high sensitivity of materials to mechanical forces, this is also the first demonstration of synergistic solar and ultrasound fields to power simultaneous evaporation desalination and waste plastics as reusable substrates generating fuel energy. The system enables persistent desalination with an exceptional evaporation rate of 3.1 kg m−2 h−1 and 82.3% efficiency (21 wt.% NaCl solution and 1 sun), and realizes H2, CO, and CH4 yields with 16.1, 9.5, and 3 µmol h−1 g−1, respectively. This strategy holds great potential for desalination and plastics value‐added transformation toward clean energy and carbon neutrality.
Bidirectional Rotating Turbine Hybrid Triboelectric‐Electromagnetic Wave Energy Harvester for Marine Environment Monitoring
Authors: Li Tianyu , Wang Xiao , Wang KuanKuan , Liu Yixin , Li Chenxi , Zhao Fuhai , Yao Yongming , Cheng Tinghai
Published: May 2024

Hydrokinetic energy, a vital renewable resource, holds promise for addressing fossil fuel shortages to ensure a sustainable future. This study proposes an efficient and stable ocean wave energy harvesting system that combines a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), an electromagnetic generator (EMG) with a planetary gear system, and a driving turbine. The turbine transforms the up‐and‐down motion in water into continuous, unidirectional rotational motion. An EMG device accelerated by a planetary gear system further ensures sustained output at very low frequencies (0.25 Hz) and boosts the upper limit of power generation at medium to high frequencies. Under water wave conditions with a 1 Hz frequency, the TENG component yields an output of up to 2200 V and 122 µA, while the average EMG output is 15 V and 80 mA. Remarkably, the entire system maintains a steady and uninterrupted output even at extremely low frequencies (0.25 Hz). The peak power outputs for the TENG and EMG components are 115 and 350 mW, respectively, with power densities of 32.55 and 329.78 W m−3, surpassing prior achievements. This research demonstrates self‐powered applications and provides an efficient method to amplify water wave forces, enhancing energy harvesting capabilities for practical marine environmental monitoring.
Electrocatalysts with Highly Dispersed Cerium in Nickel Matrix for Hydrogen Evolution in Alkaline Electrolyte
Authors: Wang Aoqi , Long Guifa , Chen Jun , An Xiurui , Yao Tingting , Li Can
Published: May 2024

It is challenging to develop highly active and durable electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline water electrolysis. Herein, an electrocatalyst is synthesized with highly dispersed cerium in a nickel matrix, showing an overpotential of 169 mV for HER at a current density of 500 mA cm−2, about 137 mV lower than that observed without cerium. Kinetic analysis results suggest that doping cerium facilitates the evolution of intermediate H for HER, thus accelerating the process of water dissociation. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations also indicate that the introduction of highly dispersed cerium can lower the energy barrier of the kinetically sluggish Volmer step by altering the orbital occupation near the Fermi level, promoting the process of water dissociation. Furthermore, the electrolyzer constructed with the electrocatalyst exhibits a cell voltage as low as 1.67 V at 800 mA cm−2 for 2000 h in 7 м KOH at 80 °C. The robust property makes it an excellent candidate electrocatalyst for practical applications.
Phosphorus Defect Mediated Electron Redistribution to Boost Anion Exchange Membrane‐Based Alkaline Seawater Electrolysis
Authors: Guo Lili , Chi Jingqi , Cui Tong , Zhu Jiawei , Xia Yanan , Guo Hailing , Lai Jianping , Wang Lei
Published: May 2024

It is of essential importance to design bifunctional electrocatalysts with excellent performance for both hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in seawater splitting. Herein, an approach for manipulating electron redistribution in NiCoP treated by P defect (Pv) engineering (NiCoPv@NF) is presented, exhibiting excellent catalytic activities and stability toward HER/OER in alkaline seawater solution. The Pv reduces the surface electrooxidation reconfiguration energy barrier, making it easier to drive the local conversion of crystals to active oxy(hydroxide) in OER. In addition, the Ni site of NiCoPv and the Co site of NiCoOOH are the active sites for HER and OER processes, respectively. In situ generated PO43− adsorbed on the catalyst surface causes spatial repulsion, preventing Cl− corrosion in seawater electrolysis. The seawater AEM electrolyzer using NiCoPv@NF couple achieves excellent performance of high activity (2.43 V at 500 mA cm−2) and long‐term durability (500 mA cm−2 over 110 h). The working efficiency of AEM in 1.0 M KOH is as high as 77.0% at 100 mA cm−2 with the price of per GGE H2 as low as $ 0.87.
Modulating Molecular Interaction of Zwitterion Toward Rational Interface Engineering of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Hangyeol , Choi Kyoungwon , Yoon Geon Woo , Kim Dohyun , Lee Dae Hwan , Choi Yelim , Jung Hyun Suk , Song Seulki , Park Taiho
Published: May 2024

Passivation of perovskite crystals is a crucial strategy to improve the efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Zwitterions, which contain both positive and negative charges in the molecule, can be used to passivate perovskite crystals. However, these materials strongly interact with each other, resulting in extremely low solubility in common organic solvents. The low solubility of zwitterions hinders the formation of uniform films, which negatively affects perovskite crystal growth. In this study, a liquid‐type zwitterion (LTZ) is synthesized by modulating intermolecular interactions of the zwitterion (3‐(1‐Pyridinio)‐1‐propanesulfonate). By suppressing intermolecular interactions, the solubility and processibility of the zwitterion in common organic solvents are successfully improved. The well‐distributed LTZ‐treated films are obtained, resulting in better electrical properties for the PSCs compared to solid‐type zwitterion‐based devices. With these characteristics, the resulting device achieves a power conversion efficiency of 24.9% with excellent thermal stability (under 60 °C and N2 atmosphere), maintaining over 80% of its initial efficiency for 1968 h. In addition, the PSC module (active area of 32.7 cm2) achieves an improved efficiency of 19.86% with high open‐circuit voltage and fill factor. The results suggest that interface engineering with an LTZ has the potential to fabricate efficient and stable PSCs.
Reconfiguring the Electrolyte Network Structure with Bio‐Inspired Cryoprotective Additive for Low‐Temperature Aqueous Zinc Batteries
Authors: Hu Bin , Chen Tao , Wang Yinan , Qian Xiaohu , Zhang Qianjin , Fu Jiajun
Published: May 2024

Despite promising performance at ambient temperature, the development of aqueous zinc batteries is jeopardized by the freeze of aqueous electrolytes and deteriorative electrode‐electrolyte interphase at low temperatures. Herein, inspired by the cryoprotective mechanism of extracellular polysaccharides in biological organisms, a quaternized galactomannan polysaccharide (q‐GPA) is proposed as a cryoprotective additive for improving low‐temperature performance of aqueous zinc batteries. Mechanistic studies revealed that a multi‐hydroxyl galactomannan backbone can substantially attenuate the activity of water molecules through the reconfiguration of the hydrogen bond network, which inhibits ice crystal formation at subzero temperatures and thus depress the freezing point of the electrolyte. Meanwhile, the quaternary ammonium groups tethered on the q‐GPA skeleton are intended to neutralize the interfacial electric field through electrostatic repulsion, thereby accelerating Zn2+ deposition kinetics and prohibiting zinc dendrite growth. Impressively, the q‐GPA–modified electrolyte enables an extended lifespan of over 1700 h in Zn||Zn symmetric battery at a high current density of 3 mA cm−2 and an ultralong cycle life of 5000 cycles with a capacity retention of 99.2% in the Zn||Na2V6O16·1.5H2O (NVO) full battery at −30 °C. This work provides unprecedented possibilities for optimizing the electrolyte formulation of low‐temperature aqueous batteries.
The MIDAS touch: Frameworks for procedural model innovation and validation
Authors: Stapleton Stephanie N. , Cassara Michael , Roth Benjamin , Matulis Christina , Desmond Clare , Wong Ambrose H. , Cardell Annemarie , Moadel Tiffany , Lei Charles , Munzer Brendan W. , Moss Hillary , Nadir Nur Ain
Published: May 2024

Background

Simulation‐based procedural practice is crucial to emergency medicine skills training and maintenance. However, many commercial procedural models are either nonexistent or lacking in key elements. Simulationists often create their own novel models with minimal framework for designing, building, and validation. We propose two interlinked frameworks with the goal to systematically build and validate models for the desired educational outcomes.

Methods

Simulation Academy Research Committee and members with novel model development expertise assembled as the MIDAS (Model Innovation, Development and Assessment for Simulation) working group. This working group focused on improving novel model creation and validation beginning with a preconference workshop at 2023 Society for Academic Emergency Medicine Annual Meeting. The MIDAS group sought to (1) assess the current state of novel model validation and (2) develop frameworks for the broader simulation community to create, improve, and validate procedural models.

Findings

Workshop participants completed 17 surveys for a response rate of 100%. Many simulationists have created models but few have validated them. The most common barriers to validation were lack of standardized guidelines and familiarity with the validation process.

We have combined principles from education and engineering fields into two interlinked frameworks. The first is centered on steps involved with model creation and refinement. The second is a framework for novel model validation processes.

Implications

These frameworks emphasize development of models through a deliberate, form‐follows‐function methodology, aimed at ensuring training quality through novel models. Following a blueprint of how to create, test, and improve models can save innovators time and energy, which in turn can yield greater and more plentiful innovation at lower time and financial cost. This guideline allows for more standardized approaches to model creation, thus improving future scholarship on novel models.