bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined optically stimulated luminescence and radiocarbon dating of aeolian dunes in Arctic Sweden
Authors: Oehler Salome , Stevens Thomas , Kolb Thomas , Possnert Göran , Fuchs Markus
Published: March 2024

Multiple parabolic sand dune fields formed in Arctic Sweden after the last deglaciation, facilitated by an abundance of loose glaciofluvial sediment, limited vegetation cover and strong winds. Following initial stabilisation, these dunes underwent repeated reworking after fire events, as evidenced by the presence of buried soils, charcoal layers and redeposited sands in the dune stratigraphy. These reworking events may be driven by wider climate forcing; however, to date, no chronological framework exists for this activity in Sweden. As such, here, we apply quartz optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating of Arctic Swedish sand dunes using two dunes at the sites of Vastakielinen and Jorggástat. Resultant double‐SAR (single aliquot regenerative dose) quartz OSL ages are in good agreement with independent ages provided by 14C dating of charcoal fragments recovered from charcoal layers within the dunes, and we conclude that the chosen protocol is generally well suited for dating aeolian reworking of dune sediments in Arctic Sweden. While feldspar contamination limits precise age assignment for initial dune movement, our results nonetheless suggest repeated and long‐lasting aeolian activity in Arctic Sweden throughout the Holocene and, although there are differences in detail, further suggest some general trends in terms of dune stability and reworking over Arctic Fennoscandia.
Krylov Complexity of Fermionic and Bosonic Gaussian States
Authors: Adhikari Kiran , Rijal Adwait , Aryal Ashok Kumar , Ghimire Mausam , Singh Rajeev , Deppe Christian
Published: March 2024

The concept of complexity has become pivotal in multiple disciplines, including quantum information, where it serves as an alternative metric for gauging the chaotic evolution of a quantum state. This paper focuses on Krylov complexity, a specialized form of quantum complexity that offers an unambiguous and intrinsically meaningful assessment of the spread of a quantum state over all possible orthogonal bases. This study is situated in the context of Gaussian quantum states, which are fundamental to both Bosonic and Fermionic systems and can be fully described by a covariance matrix. While the covariance matrix is essential, it is insufficient alone for calculating Krylov complexity due to its lack of relative phase information is shown. The relative covariance matrix can provide an upper bound for Krylov complexity for Gaussian quantum states is suggested. The implications of Krylov complexity for theories proposing complexity as a candidate for holographic duality by computing Krylov complexity for the thermofield double States (TFD) and Dirac field are also explored.
Atogepant for the prophylaxis of migraine in adults
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: March 2024

Atogepant (Aquipta) is a new oral CGRP‐receptor antagonist indicated for the prophylaxis of migraine in adults. This article discusses its indication, efficacy and adverse effects.
Origin of Black Color in Heavily Doped n‐Type GaN Crystal
Authors: Sumi Tomoaki , Takino Junichi , Okayama Yoshio , Usami Shigeyoshi , Imanishi Masayuki , Yoshimura Masashi , Mori Yusuke
Published: March 2024

In semiconductor materials, doping is used mainly for controlling the electrical properties. There have been attempts to grow low‐resistivity n‐type gallium nitride (GaN) crystals by doping oxygen, germanium, and silicon, because a low‐resistivity GaN substrate is required to reduce the power losses of optical and electrical devices. However, in those efforts, the crystal color turns black with the increase in the concentration of the n‐type additives, even though they are shallow donors. Herein, it is explained why heavily doped n‐type GaN crystals exhibit low transparency. From optical absorption profiles, the appearance of a band tail from the band edge to 1.5 eV is observed. Considering the band tail theory and our observations, it is concluded that Ga vacancy or Ga vacancy complexes behaving as acceptors induce the band tail and the black color. It is proposed that neutralizing the high charge of defects ensures that low‐colored GaN crystals with low resistivity can be obtained. Moreover, the fabrication of low‐resistivity wafers sliced from a large crystal with a laser produces inexpensive wafers and allows the spread of high‐efficiency GaN devices fabricated on low‐resistivity substrates for saving electric power.
Challenges of schistosomiasis control in Africa: The path ahead
Authors: Omohwovo Ejovwokeoghene Joseph , Gabaake Kebabonye P. , Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo
Published: March 2024

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease that is endemic in sub‐Saharan Africa, with over 90% of global cases occurring in the region. Poverty, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and limited access to water and sanitation contribute to the high prevalence of the disease. Despite efforts to control and prevent the transmission of schistosomiasis, a reduction in the transmission rates has not been realized owing to several challenges. This article highlights the challenges of schistosomiasis control in Africa and recommends strategies for successful interventions. These strategies include prioritizing government backing, investing in academic partnerships, strengthening integrated health programs, targeting communities through the primary healthcare system, and adopting home‐grown solutions. Additionally, it is essential to address the knowledge gap hindering effective control of the disease and the risk of reinfection after treatment. By implementing these strategies, it is possible to achieve the World Health Organization's 2021–2030 goal of eliminating schistosomiasis as a public health problem and reducing its prevalence of heavy infection to less than 1%.
Web service reliability and scalability determination using optimized depth wise separable convolutional neural network
Authors: Dhakshnamoorthy Gokulakrishnan , Sridhar Jeyabal , Ramanathan Ramakrishnan , Dharmalingam Muruga Radha Devi
Published: March 2024

Web service composition (WSC), a distributed architecture, creates new services atop existing ones. Ensuring trust and assessing performance and dependability in online services coordination is essential. In this paper, “Web Service Reliability and Scalability Determination Using Depth Wise Separable Convolutional Neural Network” (WSRS‐DWSCNN) is proposed to assess the trustworthiness of online service compositions, particularly focusing on performance and dependability. This work addresses the need to predict the reliability and scalability of Business Process Execution Language (BPEL) composite web services. The proposed approach transforms the BPEL specification into a Depth Wise Separable Convolutional Neural Network (DWSCNN) and annotates it with probabilistic properties for prediction. The DWSCNN model classifies the outcomes as correct or incorrect, and to enhances the prediction of web service composition scalability and reliability, we optimize the DWSCNN's weight parameters using the Adolescent Identity Search Algorithm (AISA). The proposed technique is activated in Python and its efficacy is analyzed under some metrics, such as reliability, scalability, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, F‐measure. The proposed method provides 12.36%, 45.39%, and 25.97% better reliability, 41.39%, 11.39%, 34.16% better accuracy compared with existing methods like, Web service reliability prediction depending on machine learning (WSRS‐K‐means), reliability prediction method for multiple state cloud/edge‐basis network utilizing deep neural network (WSRS‐DNN‐BO), and improving reliability of mobile social cloud computing utilizing machine learning in content addressable network (WSRS‐CAN), respectively.
A novel therapy for intractable chronic cough
Authors: Bricknell Matthew , Zhao Chris Zi‐Fan , Smallwood Natasha , Goh Nicole
Published: March 2024

Two cases of intractable chronic cough improved significantly with humidified high flow therapy (HHFT). A 59‐year‐old woman with Primary Sjogren's disease and interstitial lung disease, was trialled on a Fisher and Paykel myAIRVO™ system. She reported sustained benefits of uninterrupted sleep and increased socialization with tapering use of HHFT. A 67‐year‐old woman with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis also benefited from the use of myAIRVO™. She had relentless cough with minimal movement, and nocturnal cough causing fragmented sleep. Her cough subsided considerably with continuous HHFT, but recurred without. Both patients reported significant reductions in the cough visual analogue scale. The mechanisms by which HHFT improve intractable cough may include reducing airway dryness, inhibition of neutrophil inflammation and mucus obstruction, and splinting of the airways. HHFT significantly improved cough and health‐related quality of life in two patients with interstitial lung disease. Further research is warranted to explore the role of domiciliary HHFT.
Simple robust PD control for asymptotic stabilization of uncertain spacecraft with actuator constraints and disturbances
Authors: Su Yuxin , Zheng Chunhong
Published: March 2024

This paper concerns the problem of asymptotic attitude stabilization for uncertain spacecraft subject to actuator constraints and bounded external disturbances. A simple model‐free saturated robust PD control is proposed within the framework of PD design methodology combining sliding mode control strategy. Asymptotic stabilization stability is proved in terms of Lyapunov's direct method and Barbalat's lemma. Advantages of the proposed control include the easy‐going implementation with simple and intuitive structure and explicit tuning procedure and abilities to guarantee the asymptotic attitude stabilization and bounded disturbance rejection and ensure the actuator constraint is not violated by selecting the control gains a priori. Simulation comparisons demonstrate the improved performance of the proposed approach.
Clinical Course, Treatment and Management of Generalised Pustular Psoriasis from a United Kingdom Extension of a Global Delphi Panel
Authors: Barker Jonathan N. , Becher Gabrielle , Burden David A. , Pink Andrew E. , Zacharioudaki Maria , Warren Richard B.
Published: March 2024

This article presents the results of the UK extension of a previously conducted global Delphi panel on generalised pustular psoriasis (GPP). Five UK based dermatologists experienced in GPP management have expressed their level of agreement on 101 questionnaire statements addressing four aspects of GPP: clinical course and flare definition, diagnosis, treatment goals, and holistic management. Consensus was achieved for 89 of 101 statements (88%). Disagreement was detected on issues around the prognostic value of age, QoL assessment tools and the nature of comorbidities associated with GPP. Overall, the panelists corroborated the results of the global study and confirmed that the clinical algorithm derived from the global study is in accordance with the UK clinical practice.
Design of a Novel Green Algae‐Based Biological Photovoltaic Cell with High Photocurrent and a Photoelectrochemical Biosensing Approach Utilizing the BPV for Pesticide Analysis in Water
Authors: Buyukharman Mustafa , Gover Tugce , Gumus Aysegul , Gumus Selcuk , Yildiz Huseyin Bekir
Published: March 2024

In this research, a green alga (Paulschulziapseudovolvox sp.) based biological photovoltaic cell (BPV) was designed. This clean energy‐friendly BPV produced photocurrent as a result of illuminating the photoanode and cathode electrodes immersed in the aqueous medium with solar energy. For this purpose, both electrodes were first coated with conductive polymers with aniline functional groups on gold electrodes. In the cell, the photoanode was first coated with a gold‐modified poly 4‐(2,5‐di(thiophen‐2‐yl)‐1H‐pyrrol‐1‐yl)benzamine polymer, (P(SNS‐NH2)). Cytochrome C (Cyt. C) material was used to provide crosslink formation with bis‐aniline covalent bonds with the conductive polymer using electrochemical techniques. Paulschulziapseudovolvox sp., one of the green algae that can convert light energy into chemical energy, is attached to this layered electrode surface. The cathode of the cell is attached to the gold electrode surface with poly 4‐(4HDithieno[3,2‐b : 2′,3′‐d]pyrrole‐4‐yl)aniline (P(DTP‐Aryl‐Amine)). Then, the bilirubin oxidase enzyme was immobilized on this film surface with glutaraldehyde activation. This cell, which can use light thanks to green algae, oxidizes and splits water, and oxygen is obtained at the photoanode electrode. At the cathode electrode, the oxygen gas is reduced to water by the bio‐electro‐catalytic method. To obtain high photocurrent from the BPV, necessary electrochemical and chemical optimizations were made during the design of the system to increase the amount of electrons that were transferred and fasten its transfer rate. While the photocurrent value generated by the designed BPV in optimum conditions and in the pseudo‐steady state is 10 mA/m2, the maximum power value obtained is 46.5 mW/m2. In addition to the production of the green algae‐based BPV generating highly efficient electricity which is the main of target of this study, some studies have also been carried out to show whether this system can be used as a pesticide biosensor. Atrazine and diuron biosensing via the BPV system was analytically characterized and recovery and interference studies related to pesticide biosensor property of the BPV were also investigated.
Thermoreversible Transformations of the Cyanosubstituted 2‐Oxopyrrole Derivative by the Action of Amines for the Creation of Novel High‐Contrast Coloration/Decoloration Systems
Authors: Yu. Belikov Mikhail , Milovidova Angelina G. , Yu. Ievlev Mikhail
Published: March 2024

A new efficient approach to the synthesis of intensely colored 2‐(2‐oxo‐3H‐pyrrol‐3‐ylidene)malononitrile (OP) was developed. Using the reaction of OP with amines, a series of previously unknown colorless organic salts – dicyano(2‐oxo‐2,5‐dihydro‐1H‐pyrrol‐3‐yl)methanides were synthesized, bearing in the structure two fragments of same or diverse amines of different nature (covalent and ionic). TGA‐DTA study of the synthesized salts showed a thermal reversibility of their formation. The introduction of violet OP into paper followed by treatment with amine vapors revealed prospects of using such a system for naked‐eye detection of volatile amines. It was also shown that OP‐based rewritable paper can be created, to which a data can be applied by local heating and erased by the action of amine or temperature.
Subjective caregiver burden and coping in family carers of dependent adults and older people: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Muñoz‐Cruz Juan Carlos , López‐Martínez Catalina , Orgeta Vasiliki , Del‐Pino‐Casado Rafael
Published: March 2024

Subjective caregiver burden is highly prevalent in family caregivers. Despite several studies investigating the relationship between subjective caregiver burden and coping strategies, results remain inconsistent. The aim of our study was to systematically review current literature on the relationship between subjective caregiver burden and coping in family carers of dependent adults and older people. A secondary objective was to analyse possible sources of heterogeneity in the estimated effect. The study design was a systematic review with meta‐analysis following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses statement (PRISMA) guidelines. We searched several international databases (CINAHL, LILACS, PsycINFO and PubMed) up to February 2024. We performed several subgroup analyses to examine whether study design, methodological quality or care recipient dependency influenced results. Of the 1064 records identified in our search, a total of 80 studies met inclusion criteria. We found a significant association between greater use of dysfunctional coping and higher levels of subjective caregiver burden ( = 0.400; 95% CI = 0.315, 0.478); higher use of second‐order active coping was significantly associated with lower caregiver burden ( = −0.213; 95% CI = −0.316, −0.105). Problem‐focused coping showed no statistically significant association with levels of subjective burden; emotion‐focused coping was associated with caregiver burden only after controlling for confounding variables ( = −0.258; 95% CI = −0.441, −0.055); several individual strategies of this dimension such as acceptance ( = −0.135; 95% CI = −0.238, −0.028), positive reappraisal ( = −0.178; 95% CI = −0.255, −0.099) and religious coping ( = −0.083; 95% CI = −0.162, −0.002), were associated with lower burden. We found that several dimensions of coping strategies are significantly associated with levels of subjective caregiver burden experienced by carers. These results can inform future research evaluating the effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving carers' mental health.
Deconvolving Passive and Active Targeting of Liposomes Bearing LDL Receptor Binding Peptides Using the Zebrafish Embryo Model
Authors: Bi Dongdong , Van Hal Anneke , Aschmann Dennis , Shen Mengjie , Zhang Heyang , Su Lu , Arias‐Alpizar Gabriela , Kros Alexander , Barz Matthias , Bussmann Jeroen
Published: March 2024

Improving target versus off‐target ratio in nanomedicine remains a major challenge for increasing drug bioavailability and reducing toxicity. Active targeting using ligands on nanoparticle surfaces is a key approach but has limited clinical success. A potential issue is the integration of targeting ligands also changes the physicochemical properties of nanoparticles (passive targeting). Direct studies to understand the mechanisms of active targeting and off‐targeting in vivo are limited by the lack of suitable tools. Here, the biodistribution of a representative active targeting liposome is analyzed, modified with an apolipoprotein E (ApoE) peptide that binds to the low‐density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), using zebrafish embryos. The ApoE liposomes demonstrated the expected liver targeting effect but also accumulated in the kidney glomerulus. The ldlra−/‐ zebrafish is developed to explore the LDLR‐specificity of ApoE liposomes. Interestingly, liver targeting depends on the LDLR‐specific interaction, while glomerular accumulation is independent of LDLR and peptide sequence. It is found that cationic charges of peptides and the size of liposomes govern glomerular targeting. Increasing the size of ApoE liposomes can avoid this off‐targeting. Taken together, the study shows the potential of the zebrafish embryo model for understanding active and passive targeting mechanisms, that can be used to optimize the design of nanoparticles.
Engineering Faradaic Electrode Materials for High‐Efficiency Water Desalination
Authors: Zhou Xiaoli , Shu Shirui , Ye Xiaoyu , Li Zejun
Published: March 2024

Water desalination technologies play a key role in addressing the global water scarcity crisis and ensuring a sustainable supply of freshwater. In contrast to conventional capacitive deionization, which suffers from limitations such as low desalination capacity, carbon anode oxidation, and co‐ion expulsion effects of carbon materials, the emerging faradaic electrochemical deionization (FDI) presents a promising avenue for enhancing water desalination performance. These electrode materials employed faradaic charge‐transfer processes for ion removal, achieving higher desalination capacity and energy‐efficient desalination for high salinity streams. The past decade has witnessed a surge in the advancement of faradaic electrode materials and considerable efforts have been made to explore optimization strategies for improving their desalination performance. This review summarizes the recent progress on the optimization strategies and underlying mechanisms of faradaic electrode materials in pursuit of high‐efficiency water desalination, including phase, doping and vacancy engineering, nanocarbon incorporation, heterostructures construction, interlayer spacing engineering, and morphology engineering. The key points of each strategy in design principle, modification method, structural analysis, and optimization mechanism of faradaic materials are discussed in detail. Finally, this work highlights the remaining challenges of faradaic electrode materials and present perspectives for future research.
Electronic Structure Modulation of Oxygen‐Enriched Defective CdS for Efficient Photocatalytic H2O2 Production
Authors: Tang Yanqi , Ye Fangshou , Li Binrong , Yang Tingyu , Yang Fengyi , Qu Jiafu , Yang Xiaogang , Cai Yahui , Hu Jundie
Published: March 2024

Artificial photosynthesis for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) presents a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to generate clean fuel and chemicals. However, the catalytic activity is hindered by challenges such as severe charge recombination, insufficient active sites, and poor selectivity. Here, a robust strategy is proposed to regulate the electronic structure of catalyst by the collaborative effect of defect engineering and dopant. The well designed oxygen‐doped CdS nanorods with S2− defects and Cd2+ 4d10 electron configuration (CdS‐O,Sv) is successfully synthesized, and the Cd2+ active sites around S defects or oxygen atoms exhibit rapid charge separation, suppressed carrier recombination, and enhanced charge utilization. Consequently, a remarkable H2O2 production rate of 1.62 mmol g−1 h−1 under air conditions is acquired, with an apparent quantum yield (AQY) of 9.96% at a single wavelength of 450 nm. This work provides valuable insights into the synergistic effect between defect and doping on catalytic activity.
Boosting Thermoelectric Performance of PbBi2Te4 via Reduced Carrier Scattering and Intensified Phonon Scattering
Authors: Yao Gang , Chen Yong , Wang Sicheng , Chen Tao , Li Shujin , Song Chunjun , Li Di , Zhang Jian , Qin Xiaoying , Xin Hongxing
Published: March 2024

Materials with low intrinsic lattice thermal conductivity are crucial in the pursuit of high‐performance thermoelectric (TE) materials. Here, the TE properties of PbBi2Te4‐xSex (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.6) samples are systematically investigated for the first time. Doping with Se in PbBi2Te4 can simultaneously reduce carrier concentration and increase carrier mobility. The Seebeck coefficient is significantly increased by doping with Se, based on the density functional theory calculation, it is shown to be due to the increased bandgap and electronic density of states. In addition, the lattice strain is enhanced due to the difference in the size of Se and Te atoms, and the multidimensional defects formed by Se doping, such as vacancies, dislocations, and grain boundaries, enhance the phonon scattering and reduce the lattice thermal conductivity by about 37%. Finally, by using Se doping to reduce carrier concentration and thermal conductivity, a large ZTmax = 0.56 (at 574K) is achieved for PbBi2Te3.5Se0.5, which is around 64% larger than those of the PbBi2Te4 pristine sample. This work not only demonstrates that PbBi2Te4 is a potential medium temperature thermoelectric material, but also provides a reference for enhancing thermoelectric properties through defect and energy band engineering.
Direct Observation of Z‐Scheme Route in Cu31S16/ZnxCd1‐xS Heteronanoplates for Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Lian Zichao , Qu Minghan , Xiao Han , Wang Lihui , Wu Hanxiang , Zi Jiangzhi , Wang Wei , Li Hexing
Published: March 2024

Although photocatalytic hydrogen production from water holds great potential as a renewable and sustainable energy alternative, the practical application of the technology demands cost‐effective, simple photocatalytic systems with high efficiency in hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Herein, the synthesis and characterization of Cu31S16/ZnxCd1‐xS heterostructured nanoplates (Cu31S16/ZnCdS HNPs) as a high photocatalytic system are reported. The cost‐effective, hierarchical structures are easily prepared using the Cu31S16 NPs as the seed by the epitaxial growth of the ZnCdS nanocrystals (NCs). The Cu31S16/ZnCdS without the noble metal cocatalyst exhibits a high HER rate of 61.7 mmol g−1 h−1, which is 8,014 and 17 times higher than that of Cu31S16 and ZnCdS, respectively, under visible light irradiation. The apparent quantum yield (AQY) of Cu31S16/ZnCdS reaches 67.9% at 400 nm with the highest value so far in the reported ZnCdS‐based photocatalysts. The excellent activity and stability of the Cu31S16/ZnCdS are attributed to the formation of a strong internal electric field (IEF) and the Z‐scheme pathway. The comprehensive experiments and theoretical calculations provide the direct evidences of the Z‐scheme route. This work may offer a way for the design and development of efficient photocatalysts to achieve solar‐to‐chemical energy conversion at a practically useful level.
Amorphous K–Co–Mo–Sx Chalcogel: A Synergy of Surface Sorption and Ion‐Exchange
Authors: Nie Jing , Islam Taohedul , Roy Subrata Chandra , Li Dien , Amin Ruhul , Taylor‐Pashow Kathryn , Zhu Xianchun , Feng Renfei , Chernikov Roman , Pramanik Avijit , Han Fengxiang X. , Kumbhar Amar S. , Islam Saiful M.
Published: March 2024

Chalcogel represents a unique class of meso‐ to macroporous nanomaterials that offer applications in energy and environmental pursuits. Here, the synthesis of an ion‐exchangeable amorphous chalcogel using a nominal composition of K2CoMo2S10 (KCMS) at room temperature is reported. Synchrotron X‐ray pair distribution function (PDF), X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES), and extended X‐ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) reveal a plausible local structure of KCMS gel consisting of Mo5+2 and Mo4+3 clusters in the vicinity of di/polysulfides which are covalently linked by Co2+ ions. The ionically bound K+ ions remain in the percolating pores of the Co–Mo–S covalent network. XANES of Co K‐edge shows multiple electronic transitions, including quadrupole (1s→3d), shakedown (1s→4p + MLCT), and dipole allowed 1s→4p transitions. Remarkably, despite a lack of regular channels as in some crystalline solids, the amorphous KCMS gel shows ion‐exchange properties with UO22+ ions. Additionally, it also presents surface sorption via [S∙∙∙∙UO22+] covalent interactions. Overall, this study underscores the synthesis of quaternary chalcogels incorporating alkali metals and their potential to advance separation science for cations and oxo‐cationic species by integrating a synergy of surface sorption and ion‐exchange.
Recent Advances and Challenges in Efficient Selective Photocatalytic CO2 Methanation
Authors: Wang Piyan , Yang Fengyi , Qu Jiafu , Cai Yahui , Yang Xiaogang , Li Chang Ming , Hu Jundie
Published: March 2024

Solar‐driven carbon dioxide (CO2) methanation holds significant research value in the context of carbon emission reduction and energy crisis. However, this eight‐electron catalytic reaction presents substantial challenges in catalytic activity and selectivity. In this regard, researchers have conducted extensive exploration and achieved significant developments. This review provides an overview of the recent advances and challenges in efficient selective photocatalytic CO2 methanation. It begins by discussing the fundamental principles and challenges in detail, analyzing strategies for improving the efficiency of photocatalytic CO2 conversion to CH4 comprehensively. Subsequently, it outlines the recent applications and advanced characterization methods for photocatalytic CO2 methanation. Finally, this review highlights the prospects and opportunities in this area, aiming to inspire CO2 conversion into high‐value CH4 and shed light on the research of catalytic mechanisms.
High‐Sensitive Spatiotemporal Distribution Imaging of Compression Stresses Based on Time‐Evolutional Responsiveness
Authors: Ono Nahoko , Seishima Ryo , Shigeta Kohei , Okabayashi Koji , Imai Hiroaki , Fujii Syuji , Oaki Yuya
Published: March 2024

Mechanoresponsive materials have been studied to visualize and measure stresses in various fields. However, the high‐sensitive and spatiotemporal imaging remain a challenging issue. In particular, the time evolutional responsiveness is not easily integrated in mechanoresponsive materials. In the present study, high‐sensitive spatiotemporal imaging of weak compression stresses is achieved by time‐evolutional controlled diffusion processes using conjugated polymer, capsule, and sponge. Stimuli‐responsive polydiacetylene (PDA) is coated inside a sponge. A mechanoresponsive capsule is set on the top face of the sponge. When compression stresses in the range of 6.67–533 kPa are applied to the device, the blue color of PDA is changed to red by the diffusion of the interior liquid containing a guest polymer flowed out of the disrupted capsule. The applied strength (F/N), time (t/s), and impulse (F·t/N s) are visualized and quantified by the red‐color intensity. When a guest metal ion is intercalated in the layered structure of PDA to tune the responsivity, the device visualizes the elapsed time (τ/min) after unloading the stresses. PDA, capsule, and sponge play the important roles to achieve the time evolutional responsiveness for the high‐sensitive spatiotemporal distribution imaging through the controlled diffusion processes.
Molecular dimer junctions forming: Role of disulfide bonds and electrode‐compression‐time
Authors: Zhao Xueyan , Yan Yan , Tan Min , Zhang Surong , Xu Xiaona , Zhao Zhibin , Wang Maoning , Zhang Xubin , Adijiang Adila , Li Zongliang , Scheer Elke , Xiang Dong
Published: March 2024

Thanks to their excellent bond strength, phenyl‐based molecules with thiol anchoring groups are extensively employed to form stable single‐molecule junctions. However, two critical questions are still not answered which seriously hinder high‐yield establishing reliable molecular functional devices: (1) Whether molecular dimer junctions will be formed, and if this is the case, whether the dimerization is caused by intermolecular disulfide bonds or π–π stacking of phenyl rings; (2) Upon a mechanical‐compression force, is it possible that both anchoring groups of the molecule bond to the same electrode instead of bridging two opposite electrodes, which would drastically reduce the yield of the molecular junctions. Here, combining UV‐Vis/Raman spectroscopy of bulk molecules and conductance/flicker‐noise measurements of single molecules, we give compelling evidence that molecular dimers naturally form under ambient conditions, primarily via disulfide bonds rather than by π–π stacking. We further proposed a technique, named electrode‐compression‐hold‐on (ECHO), and reveal that the two thiol groups of phenyl‐backboned molecules will bond to the same electrode upon a compression force with a prolongated ECHO time. In contrast, the compression‐time‐dependent phenomenon is not observed for alkyl‐backboned molecules. The underlying mechanism for these unprecedented observations is elucidated, shedding light on the yield of molecular junctions.
Transferred Metal Electrodes for Perovskite Solar Cells with Doping‐Tuned Hole‐Transporting Layer
Authors: Zhang Ao , Zhu Aodong , Xiao Junyan , Peng Yong , Cheng Yi‐Bing
Published: March 2024

As an alternative technology to the standard evaporated metal top electrode in perovskite solar cells, the transfer method top electrode is featured with low cost, simple process, and ease of scalability. However, as the transfer method preparation of the less expensive metal electrodes (Ag and Cu) is explored, the mismatch between the hole‐transport layer and the top electrode results in anomalous photovoltaic properties. In this study, the work function of the hole‐transporting material is adjusted by changing the dopant content to achieve a good energy‐level match with either Ag or Cu electrode material. The power conversion efficiencies of perovskite devices based on transferred Ag and Cu electrodes can reach 18.41% and 17.25%, respectively, which are comparable to the performance of the evaporated top electrode devices.
Smart Materials to Empowering Perovskite Solar Cells with Self‐Healing Capability
Authors: Pallotta Riccardo , Cavalli Silvia , Degani Matteo , Grancini Giulia
Published: March 2024

Inspired by nature, intelligent self‐healing materials have recently been exploited also in the field of photovoltaics to mimic natural systems achieving self‐repairing. The past decade has witnessed perovskite solar cells (PSCs) skyrocketing to a certified power conversion efficiency of 26.1%. However, their intrinsic instability, when exposing to moisture, high temperature, and continuous illumination, hampers their commercial development for a long‐term use in ambient operating conditions. Therefore, the use of smart self‐healing materials, based on self‐assembling properties and dynamic interactions, empowers PSCs with self‐recovery abilities to reinforce their pivotal role as efficient photovoltaic devices and encourage their exploitation in the market. Herein, the current progress in self‐healing perovskite materials with a special focus on self‐recovery after moisture exposure or mechanical damage with the aim to provide a valuable insight for research on this topic to accelerate the PSC commercialization process is highlighted.
An “On‐Site Transformation” Strategy for Electrochemical Formation of TiO2 Nanoparticles/Ti3C2Tx MXene/Reduced Graphene Oxide Heterojunction Electrode Controllably toward Ultrasensitive Detection of Uric Acid
Authors: Zhu Yangguang , Liu Te‐Huan , Zhou Wenjiang , Shi Mingjiao , Wu Mengfan , Shi Peizheng , Zhao Ningbin , Li Xiufen , Zhang Zhe , Zhang Diming , Lv Yaokang , Wu Wenqi , Tsai Hsu‐Sheng , Lai Guosong , Fu Li , Karimi‐Maleh Hassan , Li He , Jiang Nan , Ye Chen , Lin Cheng‐Te
Published: March 2024

Ascribing to the abundance of Ti element, exceptional electrical conductivity, and electrocatalytic performance, titanium carbide MXene (Ti3C2Tx, MX) is considered as an ideal conductive matrix and employed for in situ preparation of promising TiO2 NPs@MX/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) heterojunction electrodes for uric acid (UA) detection. However, the incapability of achieving the controllable growth and synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) on MX nanosheets is a bottleneck in fabricating optimal and controllable TiO2 NPs@MX hybrid. Herein, an “on‐site transformation strategy” is developed to synthetize TiO2 NPs@MX/rGO heterojunction platform controllably by in situ electrochemical oxidizing MX nanosheets at various treatment times. The proposed approach allows for the greater operability to controllably grow and synthetize TiO2 NPs on the surface of MX nanosheets. The heterojunction electrodes present a linear voltammetric response toward UA in the concentration range of 0.003–0.3 and 0.3–300 μm and a low detection limit of 0.78 nm (S/N = 3). Additionally, a handheld electrochemical system with a smartphone readout is developed for point‐of‐care health monitoring, enabling fast, precise, and specific recognition of UA in real urine samples. The study provides a facile and controllable approach to fabricate TiO2 NPs@MX/rGO heterojunction platform for future use in other biomolecules' detection.
Transformations in Properties of Indian Barnyard Millet Starch as Induced by Ultra‐Sonication and Gamma Irradiation
Authors: Dimri Smita , Singh Sukhcharn
Published: March 2024

This study aims to assess the effect of physical modification techniques on the properties of millet starch. The starch isolated from barnyard millet (Echinochloa frumentacea) is subjected to ultrasonication (20 kHz; 30 and 60 min) and gamma irradiation (5 and 10 kGy). The protein content decreases slightly (by 2.5–3.8%) with gamma irradiation and significantly (by 5.7–6.9%) with ultrasonication. As compared to the native starch (20.56%), the amylose content of ultrasonicated starch is significantly higher (21.42% and 21.88%), while it is significantly lower (19.73% and 19.18%) for gamma‐irradiated starch. The swelling power of the native starch (13.57%) increases significantly with ultrasonication (14.21% and 14.33%) treatment; while it decreases significantly with gamma irradiation (13.17% and 12.25%) treatment. The solubility increases to 11.23%, 11.19%, 12.09%, and 13.31% from 10.45%, with both modifications. The peak viscosity of modified starches decreases significantly (2872 and 2700 cP) as compared to the native starch (3832 cP). The starches exhibit a greater value for storage modulus (G′) as compared to loss modulus (G″), reflecting their elastic nature. These transformations in the microstructure, gelatinization, and physicochemical properties of native starch can further be explored for food and textile industrial applications.
Bilayer Self‐Folding Method with High Folding Force and Angle by Suppressing Delamination of Shrink Layer
Authors: Sato Yusuke , Sato Takashi , Iwase Eiji
Published: March 2024

Heat‐shrinkable films commonly serve as active materials for self‐folding owing to their capability to fold all hinges upon heating. For origami‐based electronic devices, the self‐folding of the metal layer is necessary. Nevertheless, the self‐folding angle is low owing to the high bending stiffness of metal layers and the low adhesion of heat‐shrinkable films. Here, we introduce a bilayer self‐folding technique that effectively suppresses delamination of the shrink layer, thereby achieving a high folding force and angle. A polyolefin film mechanically fixed on the metal substrate serves to inhibit delamination, regardless of the adhesive properties of the shrink layer. This is achieved by applying adhesives within holes fabricated on the shrink layer. Conventional methods using an adhesive layer to fix the shrink layer lead to delamination at temperatures above 100°C, resulting in a decrease in self‐folding angles. In contrast, our novel fixing method yields a folding angle of 161° at 140°C, with a shrinkage rate of 69%. To demonstrate the versatility of our proposed technique, we self‐fold various origami structures, including Miura‐ori, scissors, cranes, and tessellation with chip LEDs. The introduced method broadens the range of substrate materials suitable for self‐folding and offers new possibilities for the development of origami devices. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Fabrication of High‐Density Micro‐Bump Arrays for 3D Integration of MEMS and CMOS
Authors: Shi Yunfan , Wang Zilin , Huang Rutian , Kang Jin , Zheng Kai , Bu Weihai , Wang Zheyao
Published: March 2024

Cu‐Sn transient‐liquid‐phase bonding has a limit in achieving small diameter/high‐density bumps due to the extrusion of the melted Sn layer during bonding. This paper report a new method that can fabricate small diameter Cu‐Sn bumps with 5 μm diameter and 25 μm pitch based on a new thermal reflow and pre‐bonding method that enables solid‐state Cu‐Sn reaction for avoiding Sn extrusion. Using the new method, 3D integration of a 640 × 480 MEMS array on a CMOS circuit chip has been demonstrated. This method can be used in 3D integration of MEMS arrays and CMOS circuits such as micromirror arrays. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Flow Behavior Characterization of DNA Molecules in Passive Nanofluidic Devices†
Authors: Esmek Franziska M. , Grzybeck Phil , Nasri Rukan , Tiwari Sadhana , Fernandez‐Cuesta Irene
Published: March 2024

This work aims to develop a method for analyzing the dynamic flow of single DNA molecules through nanochannels in fluidic chip which work passively. For this purpose, a two‐laser system was used, which is coupled into a fluorescence microscope and can detect labeled DNA molecules using a single photon counter for signal read‐out in real‐time. The two laser spots are focused at different points of the nanochannel, and can be used to obtain the speed and molecular extension of the DNA. For example, a velocity of 1.82 μm/ms and a spatial extension of 0.9 μm were determined for pUC18/19 DNA (2686 bp) in a nanochannel with a width and depth of 200 nm × 100 nm and a length of 10 μm. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
RETRACTED: Exploring the tumor microenvironment: Chemokine‐related genes and immunotherapy/chemotherapy response in clear‐cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Meng Yuhao , Zhang Chen , Fu Tongfei , He Jiaheng , Wu Junsong , Zhan Yongli
Published: March 2024

Background

The treatment of clear‐cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remains challenge. Chemokines laid impact on the proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells. The objective was to identify the chemokine‐related genes and construct a prognostic model for ccRCC.

Methods

Bulk transcriptomic data (n = 531), single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) dataset GSE159115, and other validation cohorts were acquired from the Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) and GEO databases. All clustering analysis was conducted by Seurat R package. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), immune infiltration analysis, single nucleotide variations (SNV) analysis, and predictive response analysis of immunotherapy/chemotherapy were conducted. 786‐O and A498 cell lines were cultured and applied into CCK‐8, Western blot, and RT‐qPCR kits.

Results

Univariate Cox analysis was used to screen out chemokine‐related genes related to survival. ZIC2, SMIM24, COL7A1, IGF2BP3, ITPKA, ADAMTS14, CYP3A7, and AURKB were identified and applied for the construction of the prognostic model. High‐risk group had a poorer prognosis than the low‐risk group in each dataset. Memory CD8+ T cells, macrophages, and memory B cells were higher in the high‐risk group, while the content of basophils was higher in the low‐risk group. Bortezomib_1191, Dactinomycin_1911, Docetaxel_1007, and Daporinad_1248 were more sensitive to high‐risk groups than low‐risk groups. Moreover, we found that IGF2BP3 significantly elevated in both 786‐O and A498 cell lines resistance to sunitinib. Knockdown of IGF2BP3 markedly reduced ccRCC cell migration and viability.

Conclusion

Our study has yielded a novel prognostic model of chemokine‐related genes based on comprehensive transcriptional atlas of ccRCC patients, shedding light on the significant impact of the tumor microenvironment on biology and immunotherapy response of ccRCC. We identified IGF2BP3 as a pivotal regulator in regulating ccRCC resistance to sunitinib.
Protein phosphatase 2A modulation and connection with miRNAs and natural products
Authors: Chuang Ya‐Ting , Yen Ching‐Yu , Tang Jen‐Yang , Chang Fang‐Rong , Tsai Yi‐Hong , Wu Kuo‐Chuan , Chien Tsu‐Ming , Chang Hsueh‐Wei
Published: March 2024

Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), a heterotrimeric holoenzyme (scaffolding, catalytic, and regulatory subunits), regulates dephosphorylation for more than half of serine/threonine phosphosites and exhibits diverse cellular functions. Although several studies on natural products and miRNAs have emphasized their impacts on PP2A regulation, their connections lack systemic organization. Moreover, only part of the PP2A family has been investigated. This review focuses on the PP2A‐modulating effects of natural products and miRNAs' interactions with potential PP2A targets in cancer and non‐cancer cells. PP2A‐modulating natural products and miRNAs were retrieved through a literature search. Utilizing the miRDB database, potential PP2A targets of these PP2A‐modulating miRNAs for the whole set (17 members) of the PP2A family were retrieved. Finally, PP2A‐modulating natural products and miRNAs were linked via a literature search. This review provides systemic directions for assessing natural products and miRNAs relating to the PP2A‐modulating functions in cancer and disease treatments.
Down‐regulating lncRNA KCNQ1OT1 relieves type II alveolar epithelial cell apoptosis during one‐lung ventilation via modulating miR‐129‐5p/HMGB1 axis induced pulmonary endothelial glycocalyx
Authors: Song Zhenghuan , Wang Zhongqiu , Cai Jiaqin , Zhou Yihu , Jiang Yueyi , Tan Jing , Gu Lianbin
Published: March 2024

Objective

Endothelial glycocalyx (EG) maintains vascular homeostasis and is destroyed after one‐lung ventilation (OLV)‐induced lung injury. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are critically involved in various lung injuries. This study aimed to investigate the role and regulatory mechanism of KCNQ1 overlapping transcript 1 (KCNQ1OT1) in OLV‐induced lung injury and LPS‐induced type II alveolar epithelial cell (AECII) apoptosis.

Methods

The rat OLV model was established, and the effects of KCNQ1OT1 on OLV‐induced ALI in vivo were explored. Bax and Caspase‐3 expression in rat lung tissues was measured by immunochemistry (IHC). AECIIs were isolated from rat lungs and treated with LPS or normal saline (control) for in vitro analysis. The expression of KCNQ1OT1, miR‐129‐5p, and HMGB1 was measured by quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) or Western blot (WB). Cell proliferation and apoptosis were examined by 3‐(4,5)‐dimethylthiahiazo (‐z‐y1)‐3,5‐di‐ phenytetrazoliumromide (MTT) and flow cytometry. The downstream targets of KCNQ1OT1 were predicted by bioinformatics, and the binding relationship between KCNQ1OT1 and miR‐129‐3p was verified by dual‐luciferase reporter assays. The potential target of miR‐129‐5p was further explored on the Targetscan website and revealed to target HMGB1. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or WB was adopted to determine the levels of IL‐1β, TNF‐α, MDA, SOD, heparanase (HPA), matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), heparan sulfate (HS) and syndecan‐1 (SDC‐1).

Results

KCNQ1OT1 and HMGB1 were up‐regulated during OLV‐induced lung injury, and their expression was positively correlated. KCNQ1OT1 knockdown reduced OLV‐induced pulmonary edema and lung epithelial cell apoptosis, increased vascular permeability, reduced IL‐1β, TNF‐α, MDA, and SOD levels and glycocalyx markers by targeting miR‐129‐5p or upregulating HMGB1. Overexpressing KCNQ1OT1 promoted cell apoptosis, reduced cell proliferation, aggravated inflammation and oxidative stress, and up‐regulated HMGB1, HPA and MMP9 in LPS‐treated AECIIs, while the HMGB1 silencing showed the opposite effects. MiR‐129‐5p mimics partially eliminated the KCNQ1OT1‐induced effects, while recombinant HMGB1 restored the effects of miR‐129‐5p overexpression on AECIIs. Additionally, KCNQ1OT1 was demonstrated to promote the activation of the p38 MAPK/Akt/ERK signaling pathways in AECIIs via HMGB1.

Conclusion

KCNQ1OT1 knockdown alleviated AECII apoptosis and EG damage during OLV by targeting miR‐129‐5p/HMGB1 to inactivate the p38 MAPK/Akt/ERK signaling. The findings of our study might deepen our understanding of the molecular basis in OLV‐induced lung injury and provide clues for the targeted disease management.
RSPO2‐associated mitochondrial metabolism defines molecular subtypes with distinct clinical and immune features in esophageal cancer
Authors: Peng Quanzhou , Cao Tianfeng , Yang Xue , Ye Zhujia , Wang Jun , Chen Shang , Yu Yanqi , Yu Yingdian , Xue Wenyuan , Chen Zhiwei , Fan Jianbing
Published: March 2024

Background

Esophageal cancer is a highly aggressive malignancy with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. The identification of novel molecular subtypes and therapeutic targets is crucial for improving clinical outcomes.

Method

In this study, we investigated the role of R‐spondin 2 (RSPO2) in esophageal cancer and its association with mitochondrial metabolism. Using bioinformatics analysis of publicly available datasets, we identified a panel of RSPO2‐related mitochondrial metabolism genes and their expression patterns in esophageal cancer. Based on these genes, we stratified esophageal cancer patients into distinct molecular subtypes with different survival rates, immune cell infiltration profiles, and drug sensitivities.

Results

Our findings suggest that RSPO2‐related mitochondrial metabolism genes may serve as potential therapeutic targets and prognostic markers for esophageal cancer. These genes play an important role in the prognosis, immune cell infiltration and drug sensitivity of esophageal cancer.

Conclusion

The identified molecular subtypes provide valuable insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms of esophageal cancer and could guide personalized treatment strategies in the future.