bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquid‐Amplified Electrostatically Driven Octopus Sucker‐Inspired Suction Cup
Authors: Sun Yu , Tang Lingjun , Wang Ling , Guo Qingkai , Lv Yuxin , Yang Laihao
Published: June 2024

Adhesion and detachment technologies play a crucial role in various fields, including industrial robot handling, transfer printing, medical applications, and crawling robot locomotion. Traditional pneumatic suction cups rely on bulky and noisy vacuum sources and need for preloading while electrostatic adhesion‐detachment devices generally cannot provide enough adhesion force. To address these shortcomings, a liquid‐amplified electrostatically driven suction cup is proposed inspired by octopus's sucker, including a negative pressure chamber with a wrinkle‐like membrane and a sealing ring. The negative pressure chamber generates the active adhesion force enhanced by the wrinkle‐like membrane, increasing the adhesion strength tenfold compared to pure electrostatic adhesion. The suction cup proposed herein has a remarkable capacity to generate an adhesion force of 56.4 times its weight, without preloading. Additionally, it can adapt to different materials, not only the dry but also the oil‐contaminated ones. This presented liquid‐amplified electrostatically driven suction cup can offer enhanced adhesion performance for applications in challenging environments.
A Dual Cobalt‐Photoredox Catalytic Approach for Asymmetric Dearomatization of Indoles with Aryl Amides via C−H Activation
Authors: Das Abir , Kumaran Subramani , Ravi Sankar Harihara Subramanian , Premkumar J. Richard , Sundararaju Basker
Published: June 2024

In this study, we unveil a novel method for the asymmetric dearomatization of indoles under cobalt/photoredox catalysis. By strategically activating C−H bonds of amides and subsequent migratory insertion of π‐bonds present in indole as reactive partner, we achieve syn‐selective tetrahydro‐5H‐indolo[2,3‐c]isoquinolin‐5‐one derivatives with excellent yields and enantiomeric excesses of up to >99 %. The developed method operates without a metal oxidant, relying solely on oxygen as the oxidant and employing an organic dye as a photocatalyst under irradiation. Control experiments and stoichiometric studies elucidate the reversible nature of the enantiodetermining C−H activation step, albeit not being rate‐determining. This study not only expands the horizon of cobalt‐catalyzed asymmetric C−H bond functionalization, but also showcases the potential synergy between cobalt and photoredox catalysis in enabling asymmetric synthesis of complex molecules.
A Hexaarylbiimidazole‐Terarylene Hybrid: Visible‐to‐NIR‐II Absorption via Sequential Photochromic Reactions
Authors: Mutoh Katsuya , Kobayashi Yoichi , Nakashima Takuya
Published: June 2024

A synergetic interaction between two or more photochromic chromophores has a potential to achieve advanced photochemical properties beyond conventional photochromic molecules and to realize photochemical control of complex systems using only a single molecule. Herein, we report a hybrid photochromic molecule consisting of hexaarylbiimidazole (HABI) and terarylene that exhibits multi‐state photochromism. The biphotochrome hybrid shows four‐state photochromic reaction involving sequentially proceeding photoreactions. The UV or visible light irradiation to the biphotochrome leads to the C−N bond breaking reaction of the HABI in preference to the ring‐closing reaction of the 6π‐electron system in the terarylene unit, leading to two terarylene radical molecules. The photogenerated terarylene radical further exhibits the 6π‐electrocyclization reaction by UV irradiation. The delocalized π‐radical on the closed‐ring form of the terarylene is efficient to enhance the photosensitivity to the NIR−I and ‐II region. Furthermore, a recombination reaction of radicals between the open‐ and closed‐ring isomers of terarylene affords an unprecedented photochromic dimer as a structural isomer of the initial molecule. This is a consequence of the sequential hybrid photochromic system involving the HABI and terarylene units.
Highly Stable Perovskite Oxides for Electrocatalytic Acidic NOx− Reduction Streamlining Ammonia Synthesis from Air
Authors: Guo Xuecheng , Wang Zhongliao , Gao Yuan , Zhang Chao , Zhang Shuai , Sang Shuaikang , Ma Jun , Sun Shuhui , Murzin Dmitry Yu. , Low Jingxiang , Shao Tao , Xiong Yujie
Published: June 2024

Electrochemical nitrogen oxide ions reduction reaction (NOx−RR) shows great opportunity for ammonia production under ambient conditions. Yet, performing NOx−RR in strong acidic conditions remains challenging due to the corrosion effect on the catalyst and competing hydrogen evolution reactions. Here, we demonstrate a stable La1.5Sr0.5Ni0.5Fe0.5O4 perovskite oxide for the NOx−RR at pH 0, achieving a Faradaic efficiency for ammonia of approaching 100 % at a current density of 2 A cm−2 in a H‐type cell. At industrially relevant current density, the NOx−RR system shows stable cell voltage and Faradaic efficiency for >350 h in membrane electrode assembly (MEA) at pH 0. By integrating the catalyst in a stacked MEA with a series connection, we have successfully obtained a record‐breaking 2.578 g h−1 NH3 production rate at 20 A. This catalyst‘s unique acid‐operability streamlines downstream ammonia utilization for direct ammonium salt production and upstream integration with NOx sources. Techno‐economic and lifecycle assessments reveal substantial economic advantages for this ammonia production strategy, even when coupled with a plasma‐based NOx production system, presenting a sustainable complement to the conventional Haber–Bosch process.
Enhancing the thermal and mechanical properties of sulfonated peek fiber composites with reduced smoke density and toxicity
Authors: Gurung Dinesh , Murad Md Shafinur , Asmatulu Eylem , Gürsoy Mustafa , Bahçeci Ersin , Bakir Mete , Asmatulu Ramazan
Published: June 2024

Polyether ether ketone (PEEK) sulfonation process is a reasonably easy but time‐consuming to manufacture composites. This study focuses on altering PEEK powder in a sulfuric acid solution via a sulfonation process to develop sulfonated PEEK (SPEEK) resin for the fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic composite manufacturing and characterization steps. In this study, about 5 wt% PEEK powder was sulfonated in 98% sulfuric acid solution for 12 h at 65°C. The water bath technique was used for the precipitation process to obtain the SPEEK polymer. After proper washing and drying, the SPEEK matrix (resin) was obtained by dissolving it in dimethylformamide in a ratio of 1:2. This resin solution was then used to manufacture thermoplastic Kevlar and glass fiber‐reinforced composites employing wet layup process and cured at an elevated temperature under pressure. These SPEEK composites passed the flame retardancy UL94 test with a V0 rating. The average water contact angle of the glass fiber‐ and Kevlar‐SPEEK composites is 93.67° and 102.24°, respectively. The average tensile strength values of these composites were found 222.22 and 284.35 MPa, correspondingly. The smoke density and toxicity tests of the glass fiber‐SPEEK composite confirmed lower smoke generation with the modifications. These SPEEK‐fiber composites can be considered for various industrial applications, including aviation, energy, drone, defense, and automotive.
Monitoring natural organic matter in drinking water treatment with photoelectrochemical oxygen demand
Authors: DeMont Isobel , Anderson Lindsay E. , Bennett Jessica L. , Sfynia Chrissa , Bjorndahl Paul , Jarvis Peter , Stoddart Amina K. , Gagnon Graham A.
Published: June 2024

Conventional metrics such as total organic carbon (TOC) and ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm (UV254) may oversee aspects of natural organic matter (NOM) reactivity in drinking water treatment. The novel photoelectrochemical oxygen demand (peCOD) analyzer indirectly measures the oxygen consumed during NOM oxidation with photo‐ and electrochemical methods, quantifying NOM reactivity. peCOD was valuable for tracking NOM degradation in nine drinking water treatment facilities, particularly in processes where conventional metrics failed to capture changes in NOM from partial oxidation (e.g., biofiltration and oxidation). However, peCOD exhibited moderate correlations with TOC (R2 = 0.67) and UV254 (R2 = 0.48), indicating the need for its concurrent use with conventional methods. While peCOD was not a significant predictor of disinfection by‐product formation potential (R2 < 0.20), its inclusion alongside standard NOM metrics improved the performance of multivariable regression models. Thus, peCOD provided a rapid, standardized, operator‐friendly, environmentally conscious, concentration‐based approach for evaluating NOM characteristics in drinking water samples.
Smart Electrolytes for Lithium Batteries with Reversible Thermal Protection at High Temperatures
Authors: Yu Qian , Sun Wei , Wang Shuai , Qiu Qian , Zhang Wenjun , Tian Haoran , Xia Lan , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: June 2024

Battery safety is a multifaceted concern, with thermal runaway standing out as a primary issue. In this work, we introduce a novel temperature‐responsive, self‐protection electrolyte governed by the phase separation dynamics of poly (butyl methacrylate) (PBMA) in lithium salt/tetraglyme (G4) blends. This innovation effectively mitigates the risks associated with thermal runaway in lithium batteries. Our electrolyte exhibits a temperature‐responsive‐recovery characteristic, imparting intelligent capabilities to lithium batteries. At temperatures of >105 °C, the electrolyte transitions from a homogeneous phase to a segregated state, comprising a PBMA‐rich phase with low conductivity and a high conductivity phase containing dissolved lithium salt in G4. The deposition of the PBMA‐rich phase on the electrode surface obstructs the ion transport, thereby averting a thermal runaway. Subsequently, upon returning to room temperature of 25 °C, the electrolyte reverts to its homogeneous, highly conductive state, with battery capacity resuming at approximately 94 %. Thus, our electrolyte offers a robust, reversible, smart self‐protection for batteries. Additionally, it demonstrates exceptional cycling performance at room temperature. Our findings open new avenues for thermo‐reversible and self‐protective electrolytes, advancing the safe and widespread adoption of lithium‐ion batteries.
ER stress‐induced transcriptional response reveals tolerance genes in yeast
Authors: Xie Jingrong , Xiao Chufan , Pan Yuyang , Xue Songlyu , Huang Mingtao
Published: June 2024

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is important for protein secretion studies, yet the complexities of protein synthesis and secretion under endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress conditions remain not fully understood. ER stress, triggered by alterations in the ER protein folding environment, poses substantial challenges to cells, especially during heterologous protein production. In this study, we used RNA‐seq to analyze the transcriptional responses of yeast strains to ER stress induced by reagents such as tunicamycin (Tm) or dithiothreitol (DTT). Our gene expression analysis revealed several crucial genes, such as HMO1 and BIO5, that are involved in ER‐stress tolerance. Through metabolic engineering, the best engineered strain R23 with HMO1 overexpression and BIO5 deletion, showed enhanced ER stress tolerance and improved protein folding efficiency, leading to a 2.14‐fold increase in α‐amylase production under Tm treatment and a 2.04‐fold increase in cell density under DTT treatment. Our findings contribute to the understanding of cellular responses to ER stress and provide a basis for further investigations into the mechanisms of ER stress at the cellular level.
Modulation of habenular and nucleus accumbens functional connectivity by ketamine in major depression
Authors: Taraku Brandon , Loureiro Joana R. , Sahib Ashish K. , Zavaliangos‐Petropulu Artemis , Al‐Sharif Noor , Leaver Amber M. , Wade Benjamin , Joshi Shantanu , Woods Roger P. , Espinoza Randall , Narr Katherine L.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with dysfunctional reward processing, which involves functional circuitry of the habenula (Hb) and nucleus accumbens (NAc). Since ketamine elicits rapid antidepressant and antianhedonic effects in MDD, this study sought to investigate how serial ketamine infusion (SKI) treatment modulates static and dynamic functional connectivity (FC) in Hb and NAc functional networks.

Methods

MDD participants (n = 58, mean age = 40.7 years, female = 28) received four ketamine infusions (0.5 mg/kg) 2−3 times weekly. Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans and clinical assessments were collected at baseline and 24 h post‐SKI. Static FC (sFC) and dynamic FC variability (dFCv) were calculated from left and right Hb and NAc seeds to all other brain regions. Changes in FC pre‐to‐post SKI, and correlations with changes with mood and anhedonia were examined. Comparisons of FC between patients and healthy controls (HC) at baseline (n = 55, mean age = 32.6, female = 31), and between HC assessed twice (n = 16) were conducted as follow‐up analyses.

Results

Following SKI, significant increases in left Hb‐bilateral visual cortex FC, decreases in left Hb‐left inferior parietal cortex FC, and decreases in left NAc‐right cerebellum FC occurred. Decreased dFCv between left Hb and right precuneus and visual cortex, and decreased dFCv between right NAc and right visual cortex both significantly correlated with improvements in mood ratings. Decreased FC between left Hb and bilateral visual/parietal cortices as well as increased FC between left NAc and right visual/parietal cortices both significantly correlated with improvements in anhedonia. No differences were observed between HC at baseline or over time.

Conclusion

Subanesthetic ketamine modulates functional pathways linking the Hb and NAc with visual, parietal, and cerebellar regions in MDD. Overlapping effects between Hb and NAc functional systems were associated with ketamine's therapeutic response.
Selective Activity Against Amastigote Forms of Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania infantum of Diastereomeric Dicentrine N‐oxides
Authors: Tristão Daniela C. , Barbosa Henrique , de Castro Levatti Erica V. , Andrade Beatriz A. , Romanelli Maiara M. , Antar Guilherme M. , Tempone Andre G. , Lago João Henrique G.
Published: June 2024

As part of our continuous research for the discovery of bioactive compounds against Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania infantum, the alkaloid (6aS)‐dicentrine (1) was oxidized to afford (6aS,6S)‐ (2) and (6aS,6R)‐ (3) dicentrine‐N‐oxides. Evaluation of the cytotoxicity against NCTC cells indicated that 2 and 3 are non‐toxic (CC50>200 μM) whereas 1 demonstrated CC50 of 52.0 μM. Concerning T. cruzi activity against amastigotes, derivatives 2 and 3 exhibited EC50 values of 9.9 μM (SI>20.2) and 27.5 μM (SI>7.3), respectively, but 1 is inactive (EC50>100 μM). Otherwise, when tested against L. infantum amastigotes, 1 and 3 exhibited EC50 values of 10.3 μM (SI=5.0) and 12.7 μM (SI>15.7), respectively, being 2 inactive (EC50>100 μM). Comparing the effects of positive controls benznidazol (EC50=6.5 μM and SI>30.7) and miltefosine (EC50=10.2 μM and SI=15.2), it was observed a selective antiparasitic activity to diastereomers 2 and 3 against T. cruzi and L. infantum. Considering stereochemical aspects, it was suggested that the configuration of the new stereocenter formed after oxidation of 1 played an important role in the bioactivity against amastigotes of both tested parasites.
Linkage Conversion in Covalent Organic Frameworks: An Efficient Strategy to Promote Photocatalytic Organic Transformations
Authors: Pang Huaji , Huang Dekang , Xiang Yonggang
Published: June 2024

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are emerging as promising heterogeneous photocatalysts for organic transformations, owing to their fascinating optical properties, excellent recyclability, and customizable chemical structures. To maximize the photocatalytic activity of COFs, various strategies have been explored, including metal complexation, construction of donor‐acceptor structures, modification of functional groups, hybridization with inorganic semiconductors, and linkage conversion. Among these, linkage conversion has proved to be particularly effective, driving the production of numerous value‐added organic chemicals. In this concept article, we present a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in linkage conversion and highlight the most enlightening examples that have adopted such a strategy to boost the photocatalytic capabilities of COFs for organic transformations. It is anticipated that this concept will assist researchers in designing novel COFs with multifunctional linkages, paving the way towards their broader application in organic synthesis.
Facile Construction of Quaternary Carbon Centers via Dinuclear Titanium(III)‐Catalyzed Reductive Coupling of Tertiary Chlorides and Activated Olefins
Authors: Chen Wanjiao , Sun Huaxi , Jiang Jie , Zhang Yong‐Qiang
Published: June 2024

The establishment of all‐carbon quaternary carbon centers represents a pivotal aspect in the synthesis of numerous natural products and pharmaceutical compounds, underscoring its paramount significance in synthetic organic chemistry. Herein, we present a novel synthetic strategy for the generation of quaternary carbon centers through the reductive coupling of tertiary halides, catalyzed by dinuclear (salen)titanium catalysts. This catalytic framework demonstrates notable reactivity towards tertiary chlorides while maintaining inertness towards secondary and primary chlorides, thereby facilitating exceptional chemoselectivity for C−C bond formation. The reaction proceeds with remarkable efficiency across a diverse range of substrates under mild reaction conditions.
Electrochemical Behaviour of (n‐Bu4N)4[AsVMo11O40] and (n‐Bu4N)4[AsV2Mo10O40] Doped PEDOT Film and Its Quartz Crystal Microbalance Studies
Authors: Sakthinathan Indherjith , Ueda Tadaharu , McCormac Timothy
Published: June 2024

Keggin‐type polyoxometalates (POMs), (n‐Bu4N)4[AsVMo11O40] (AsVMo11) and (n‐Bu4N)4H[AsV2Mo10O40] (AsV2Mo10), have been immobilised with the conducting polymer poly (3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) on the surface of the glassy carbon electrode via chronocoulometry technique. The voltammetric behaviour of these modified electrodes was investigated with cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM). The resulting films showed the surface adsorbed behaviour and dependence on the pH of the electrolyte solution. By using AC impedance, it was found that the resulting POM‐doped PEDOT films were highly conductive. The redox switching stability of the polymer films was investigated, and it was found that the AsVMo11/PEDOT hybrid film is significantly more stable for continuous potential sweep than the AsV2Mo10/PEDOT hybrid film. Additionally, the EQCM measurements confirm that during the redox potential cycling, the anions in the supporting electrolyte replace the POMs anion doped onto the film.
Domain adaptation via gamma, Weibull, and lognormal distributions for fault detection in chemical and energy processes
Authors: Yang Lingkai , Cheng Jian , Luo Yi , Zhou Tianbai , Zhang Xiaoyu , Shi Linsong , Xu Yuan
Published: June 2024

The burgeoning development of supervised machine learning (ML) has led to its widespread applications in chemical and energy processes, such as fault detection. However, in some scenarios, collecting labelled data can be costly, hazardous, or impossible. Moreover, data of the same process can follow varying distributions due to changes in, for example, devices and environment, causing ML models to be ineffective. These challenges pose a domain adaptation task, necessitating the refinement of existing ML models to tackle issues from related applications. This study proposes a domain adaptation approach to address label scarcity and data distribution variation. The method has three stages: data distribution modelling (knowledge discovery), adaptation of target domain samples to source domains (knowledge transformation), and classifier ensemble for fault detection (knowledge fusion). Gamma, Weibull, and lognormal distributions are applied for data modelling and domain adaptation. The effectiveness of the method is validated on synthetic datasets and then applied to identify anomalies in coal mine pressure data and detect faults in the Tennessee Eastman (TE) process.
Emergent Physics in Metal−Organic Frameworks
Authors: Wang Shaoze , Wang Yingchao , Sun Haozhou , Sun Lei
Published: June 2024

Many‐body interactions in condensed matter could lead to emergent phenomena spanning superconductivity, ferromagnetism, exciton condensation, etc. The emergence of these phenomena often requires highly ordered spatial arrangements of the interacting species to enforce specific space symmetries and interacting strengths. Metal−organic frameworks (MOFs), crystalline materials formed by self‐assembly of metal ions and organic ligands, allow for precise design of their crystal structures and sophisticated tuning of Coulombic interaction or magnetic coupling among lattice sites. Such atomic‐level designability combined with high crystallinity and versatile types of lattices (e.g., kagome and honeycomb lattices) render MOFs as a great platform to investigate emergent physics. In this Emerging Topic, we summarize recent studies evidencing emergent phenomena in MOFs including strong correlations, superconductivity, charge density wave, long‐range magnetic order, and quantum spin liquid. We highlight the great potential of MOFs as quantum materials and discuss challenges including growth of high‐quality single crystals and in‐depth physical characterizations to reveal insights into the nature of physical properties of MOFs.

Key Scientists
Comparison – An Approach for chemistry beginners to improve a basic cognitive competence
Authors: Heimann Rebekka , Rienäcker Ina
Published: June 2024

In diesem Beitrag werden Arbeitsblätter zu zehn thematischen Feldern des Chemieanfangsunterrichts vorgestellt, die dazu dienen sollen, die Grundfertigkeit des Vergleichens und die wichtige naturwissenschaftliche Fähigkeit der Faktorenkontrolle zu schulen. Sie wurden in Anlehnung an ein kognitives Lerntraining von Feuerstein entwickelt.
Suppression of Lattice Doubling in Quasi‐Skutterudite La3Rh4Sn13: A Comparison of Temperature and Hydrostatic Pressure Routes
Authors: Sundaramoorthy Muthukumaran , Lingannan Govindaraj , Kumar Mondal Pradip , Lue C. S. , Kuo C. N. , Arumugam Sonachalam , Joseph Boby
Published: June 2024

We present structural properties at different temperatures and high‐pressure (HP) of La3Rh4Sn13 which is one of the interesting systems in the Remika phase RE3Rh4Sn13 (RE=Sr, Ca, La, Pr, Ce) quasi‐skutterudite series using synchrotron diffraction. Data at ambient conditions revealed the presence of several weak reflections, which could be accounted only with a superlattice I* structure (I4132) with lattice parameter a~19.457 Å. However, above 350 K, a complete suppression of the weak superlattice reflections of the I* structure is observed. Data at higher temperatures is found to be well described by the I structure (Pm‐3n) having half the lattice parameter compared to the I* structure. HP‐XRPD at ambient temperature showed that pressures greater than 7.5 GPa result in similar suppression of the weak I* superlattice reflections. Data at higher pressures is found to be well described by the I structure (Pm‐3n), similar to the high‐temperature phase. HP Raman measurements demonstrated changes that seem to be consistent with a locally more ordered structure as in the case of the I*→I transition. Our findings on La3Rh4Sn13 open up new avenues to study unexplored HP phenomena, especially the superconductivity in these Remika phase quasi‐skutterudites.
Dihedral Angles and Photoluminescence Quantum Yields: An NMR Analysis
Authors: Goll Felix D. , Dießner Nicolas , Kuehne Alexander J. C. , Ziener Ulrich
Published: June 2024

The synthesis of two different series of donor–acceptor (D−A) molecules is reported, consisting of a series of four structurally related donors and two different acceptors. The subtle differences in the electron density of these D−A−D and D−A compounds are clearly reflected in the different chemical shifts of certain donor protons in the 1H NMR spectra. These shifts show a cosine squared correlation of the dihedral angle between the donor units and the neighbouring phenyl unit of the acceptor. This correlation is also related to optical properties such as the photoluminescence quantum yield, which shows a similar trend due to the different degree of charge transfer during excitation and relaxation processes. In this way, it is possible to directly correlate a molecular structural parameter with a material property on a purely experimental basis, which should be applicable to many donor‐acceptor systems.
Plasmonic Cross‐Reactive Sensing Noses and Tongues
Authors: Calderon Irene , Becerril‐Castro I. Brian , Zorlu Tolga , Özdemir Burak , García‐Rico Eduardo , Baulin Vladimir A. , Alvarez‐Puebla Ramon A.
Published: June 2024

The advancements in the capabilities of artificial sensory technologies, such as electronic/optical noses and tongues, have significantly enhanced their ability to identify complex mixtures of analytes. These improvements are rooted in the evolving manufacturing processes of cross‐reactive sensor arrays (CRSAs) and the development of innovative computational methods. The potential applications in early diagnosis, food quality control, environmental monitoring, and more, position CRSAs as an exciting area of research for scientists from diverse backgrounds. Among these, plasmonic CRSAs are particularly noteworthy because they offer enhanced capabilities for remote, fast, and even real‐time monitoring, in addition to better portability of instrumentation. Specifically, the synergy between the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) and CRSAs introduces advanced techniques such as LSPR, metal‐enhanced fluorescence (MEF), surface‐enhanced infrared absorption (SEIRA), surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), and surface‐enhanced resonance Raman scattering (SERRS) spectroscopies. This review delves into the importance and versatility of optical‐CRSAs, especially those based on plasmonic materials, discussing recent applications and potential new research directions.
Application and Challenge of Metal/Covalent Organic Frameworks in Ammonia Sorption and Separation
Authors: Fu Yu , Zhang Wenxiang , Ma Heping
Published: June 2024

As both a critical chemical feedstock and an environmental pollutant, the production and utilization of ammonia (NH3) are accompanied by the progress of social civilization. In recent years, research on metal/covalent organic framework materials as NH3 adsorbents has attracted increasing attention due to their high porosity, versatile architecture and tunable functionality. This review was organized to highlight the recent advancement of MOF/COF materials for NH3 sorption, which successively presented the key properties of solid adsorbents and summarized the strategies along with their mechanisms for enhancing NH3 adsorption. In addition, perspectives and outlook regarding the future development of MOF/COF‐based NH3 adsorbents were outlined to meet the requirements of practical applications under various condition.
Photocatalytic Functionalization of Alkenes Enabled by Polyfluoroaryl Migration
Authors: Savchenko Artem G. , Zubkov Mikhail O. , Hu Jinbo , Dilman Alexander D.
Published: June 2024

Visible light‐mediated photocatalytic approach for the radical functionalization of alkenes bearing the fluorinated aryl sulfide fragment is described. The process occurs in the presence of organic photocatalyst using sulfinates as sources of radicals. The key step of the reaction is the intramolecular 1,4‐migration of the polyfluoroaryl group. In the reaction, three new bonds are formed (two C−C and one C−S bond). The decisive role of fluorine atoms in the reaction efficiency was confirmed by DFT calculations.
The link of ESG performance and board gender diversity in European firms
Authors: Odriozola María D. , Blanco‐González Alicia , Baraibar‐Diez Elisa
Published: June 2024

This study analyses the relationship between board gender diversity and the ESG scores for Spanish, French, German, and English listed companies. Previous academic literature shows controversial results regarding the benefits of female participation in boards of directors, however many studies have only used an aggregated indicator to measure performance or they do not have compared the results among countries. The empirical section of this research uses a sample formed by 205 companies from France, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom for a period of 19 years (from 2002 to 2020). The results obtained through a panel data estimation confirm a positive and significant relationship between board gender diversity (BGD) and the social and the corporate governance score in all cases. However, the relationship between BGD and the environmental score is only confirmed in the case of Spain, France, and Germany. Therefore, even though in these countries, the actions to promote gender equality have been different and at different times, the results are mostly homogeneous.
Lithium‐Ion Transport Properties in DMSO and TEGDME: Exploring the Influence of Solvation through Molecular Dynamics and Experiments
Authors: Piacentini Vanessa , Simari Cataldo , Gentile Antonio , Marchionna Stefano , Nicotera Isabella , Brutti Sergio , Bodo Enrico
Published: June 2024

This study explores the properties of aprotic electrolytes via the application of experimental methods, including nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and electrochemical techniques, along with molecular dynamic modeling. The aim is to provide a quantitative description of the physico‐chemical properties of two well‐established electrolytes (case studies), each exhibiting significantly distinct dielectric properties: a LiTFSI (Lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide) solution in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO, dielectric constant
=46.68) and a LiTFSI solution in tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether (TEGDME,
=7.71). We obtained a comprehensive insight into the properties of the electrolytes at both the macroscopic‐collective and molecular levels with particular emphasis on the interactions between the Li ions and solvent molecules. We discovered remarkable disparities in the structural arrangements, solvation behaviors, and bulk‐related properties of these electrolyte systems, particularly in response to temperature changes.
Generalized state‐space averaging modeling to fourth‐order power converters operating in DCM
Authors: Dionizio Anderson Aparecido , Sampaio Leonardo Poltronieri , da Silva Sergio Augusto Oliveira
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a novel methodology for correcting the state‐space averaging (SSA) modeling for DC‐DC power converters represented for fourth‐order systems operating in discontinuous conduction mode (DCM). SSA modeling has been widely employed for converters operating in continuous conduction mode (CCM), obtaining a good similarity between the switched converter and the mathematical model. In contrast, when the converters work in DCM, significant deviations between the average and RMS values imply errors in the SSA model. Hence, the proposed generalized SSA modeling methodology provides an accurate model to aid the controllers and system design. Consequently, the proposed technique can be applied to distinct fourth‐order power converters such as Zeta, Ćuk, and SEPIC in several applications. Additionally, SSA corrections can be associated with different techniques for obtaining the small‐signals representation. Simulation and experimental results and mathematical analyses that prove the feasibility and functionality of the proposal are addressed.
Low‐power multibit delta–sigma modulator based on passive and unattenuated summation scheme
Authors: Wei Rongshan , Huang Lijie , Huang Gongxing , Wei Cong
Published: June 2024

A low‐power multibit delta–sigma modulator (DSM) based on a passive and unattenuated summation scheme is proposed. The summation circuit achieves multiplication of the voltage signal carried on the summation capacitor through a bidirectional sampling technique, thereby compensating for the inherent attenuation caused by passive summation, which eliminates the need for an active operational transconductance amplifier (OTA) to achieve perfect summation. Here, a second‐order DSM based on a 4‐bit first‐order passive noise‐shaping (NS) SAR quantizer is employed to satisfy the SNDR requirements exceeding 100 dB, which validates the reliability of the summation scheme. In addition, a cascoded floating inverter amplifier (FIA) is used as the core OTA to further improve system energy efficiency. Simulation results demonstrate that at a supply voltage of 1.2 V and a bandwidth of 20 kHz, the SNDR reaches 102.62 dB, power consumption is only 148.32 μW, and the Schreier figure‐of‐merit (FoM) of the SNDR is 183.92 dB. The results demonstrate that the proposed DSM has considerable potential for widespread application in the audio domain.
Recyclable Technology of Thermosetting Resins for High Thermal Conductivity Materials Based on Physical Crushing
Authors: Zhong An , Xie Congzhen , Gou Bin , Zhou Jiangang , Xu Huasong , Yu Song , Zhang Daoming , Bi Chunhui , Cai Hangchuan , Li Licheng , Wang Rui
Published: June 2024

Epoxy resin, characterized by prominent mechanical and electric‐insulation properties, is the preferred material for packaging power electronic devices. Unfortunately, the efficient recycling and reuse of epoxy materials with thermally cross‐linked molecular structures has become a daunting challenge. Here, we propose an economical and operable recycling strategy to regenerate waste epoxy resin into a high‐performance material. Different particle size of waste epoxy micro‐spheres (100–600 μm) with core‐shell structure is obtained through simple mechanical crushing and boron nitride surface treatment. By using smattering epoxy monomer as an adhesive, an eco‐friendly composite material with a “brick‐wall structure” can be formed. The continuous boron nitride pathway with efficient thermal conductivity endows eco‐friendly composite materials with a preeminent thermal conductivity of 3.71 W m−1 K−1 at a low content of 8.5 vol% h‐BN, superior to pure epoxy resin (0.21 W m−1 K−1). The composite, after secondary recycling and reuse, still maintains a thermal conductivity of 2.12 W m−1 K−1 and has mechanical and insulation properties comparable to the new epoxy resin (energy storage modulus of 2326.3 MPa and breakdown strength of 40.18 kV mm−1). This strategy expands the sustainable application prospects of thermosetting polymers, offering extremely high economic and environmental value.
Heart failure hospitalization following surgical or transcatheter aortic valve implantation in low‐risk aortic stenosis
Authors: Lopez‐Martinez Helena , Vilalta Victoria , Farjat‐Pasos Julio , Ferrer‐Sistach Elena , Mohammadi Siamak , Escabia Claudia , Kalavrouziotis Dimitri , Resta Helena , Borrellas Andrea , Dumont Eric , Carrillo Xavier , Paradis Jean‐Michel , Fernández‐Nofrerías Eduard , Delgado Victoria , Rodés‐Cabau Josep , Bayes‐Genis Antoni
Published: June 2024

Aims

In low‐risk patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS), sutureless surgical aortic valve replacement (SU‐SAVR) may be an alternative to transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The risk of heart failure hospitalization (HFH) after aortic valve replacement (AVR) in this population is incompletely characterized. This study aims to investigate the incidence, predictors, and outcomes of HFH in patients undergoing SU‐SAVR versus TAVI.

Methods and results

Patients referred for AVR between 2013 and 2020 at two centres were consecutively included. The decision for SU‐SAVR or TAVI was determined by a multidisciplinary Heart Team. Cox regression and competing risk analysis were conducted to assess adverse events. Of 594 patients (mean age 77.5 ± 6.4, 59.8% male), 424 underwent SU‐SAVR, while 170 underwent TAVI. Following a mean follow‐up of 34.1 ± 23.1 months, HFH occurred in 112 (27.8%) SU‐SAVR patients and in 8 (4.8%) TAVI patients (P < 0.001). The SU‐SAVR cohort exhibited higher all‐cause mortality (138 [32.5%] patients compared with 30 [17.6%] in the TAVI cohort [P < 0.001]). These differences remained significant after sensitivity analyses with 1:1 propensity score matching for baseline variables. SU‐SAVR with HFH was associated with increased all‐cause mortality (61.6% vs. 23.1%, P < 0.001). Independent associates of HFH in SU‐SAVR patients included diabetes, atrial fibrillation, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lower glomerular filtration rate and lower left ventricular ejection fraction. SU‐SAVR patients with HFH had a 12‐month LVEF of 59.4 ± 12.7.

Conclusions

In low‐risk AS, SU‐SAVR is associated with a higher risk of HFH and all‐cause mortality compared to TAVI. In patients with severe AS candidate to SU‐SAVR or TAVI, TAVI may be the preferred intervention.
The experiences of a therapeutic relationship between dietitians and patients in UK eating disorder treatment: A qualitative study
Authors: Robertson Nicole , Davies Luke
Published: June 2024

Objective

Dietitians have a central role in eating disorder (ED) treatment, however few studies exist investigating therapeutic aspects of dietetic care and factors influencing the dietitian‐patient relationship. To address the gap, this study aimed to use a qualitative description approach to explore the experiences of delivering and receiving dietetic care in ED treatment in the UK.

Method

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 6 specialist ED dietitians and focus groups with 11 recovered ED patients. Interviews were transcribed and inductive thematic analysis was performed to identify key themes describing the data.

Results

Six key themes were generated: (1) Building trust, (2) Appropriate timing, (3) Adapting, (4) Dietitians as experts, (5) Boundaries, and (6) Difficult relationships. Participants highlighted the importance of building trust and considering nutritional risk and readiness in treatment approach. Patients expressed a desire for dietitians to have experience in EDs, facilitating understanding of their illness. However, dietitians identified the nature of EDs making their role challenging at times.

Discussion

This study described various factors affecting dietetic care in EDs and provided a valuable insight into patients' perceptions of treatment. The findings support advancements in ED dietitians' knowledge and understanding, helping to enhance quality of care.
Centering Indigenous Knowledges in ecology and beyond
Authors: Gazing Wolf Joseph , Ignace Danielle D , David‐Chavez Dominique M , Jennings Lydia L , Smiles Deondre , Blanchard Paulette , Simmons Ellen , Doan‐Crider Diana , Kills Ruth Plenty Sweetgrass‐She , Montgomery Michelle , Nelson Melissa K , Black Elk Linda , Black Elk Luke , Bridge Gwen , Chischilly Ann Marie , Deer Kevin , DeerinWater Kathy , Ecoffey Trudy , Vergun Judith , Wildcat Daniel , Rattling Leaf James
Published: June 2024

There is a resurgent enthusiasm for Indigenous Knowledges (IK) across settler–colonial institutions of research, education, and conservation. But like fitting a square peg in a round hole, IK are being forced into colonial systems, and then only as marginal alternatives. To address this mismatch, the Traditional Ecological Knowledge Section of the Ecological Society of America (ESA) hosted a 2‐day workshop—entitled Elevating Indigenous Knowledges in Ecology—at the 2022 ESA Annual Meeting, which was held on Kanien'keháka (Mohawk) and Ho‐de‐no‐sau‐nee‐ga (Haudenosaunee) territories in Montreal, Canada. This gathering of 21 interdisciplinary Indigenous ecologists included scholars from across the career and professional spectrum. By consensus, workshop participants (including the authors of this article) identified four emergent themes and respective guiding questions as a pathway toward the transformation of settler–colonial institutions into IK‐led spaces. We highlight this pathway to support actions toward systemic change, inspire future directions for Indigenous and non‐Indigenous ecologists, and nurture stronger relationships between Indigenous communities and the Western sciences, toward actualized decoloniality.
How do urban trees vary across the US? It depends on where and how you look
Authors: Mejía Gisselle A , Groffman Peter M , Avolio Meghan L , Bratt Anika R , Engebretson Jesse M , Grijseels Noortje , Hall Sharon J , Hobbie Sarah E , Lerman Susannah B , Litvak Elizaveta , Locke Dexter H , Narango Desiree L , Padullés Cubino Josep , Pataki Diane E , Trammell Tara LE
Published: June 2024

Urban forests provide ecosystem services important for regulating climate, conserving biodiversity, and maintaining human well‐being. However, these forests vary in composition and physiological traits due to their unique biophysical and social contexts. This variation complicates assessing the functions and services of different urban forests. To compare the characteristics of the urban forest, we sampled the species composition and two externally sourced traits (drought tolerance and water‐use capacity) of tree and shrub species in residential yards, unmanaged areas, and natural reference ecosystems within six cities across the contiguous US. As compared to natural and unmanaged forests, residential yards had markedly higher tree and shrub species richness, were composed primarily of introduced species, and had more species with low drought tolerance. The divergence between natural and human‐managed areas was most dramatic in arid climates. Our findings suggest that the answer to the question of “what is an urban forest” strongly depends on where you look within and between cities.
How omics is revealing new roles for glia in addiction
Authors: Bergkamp David J. , Neumaier John F.
Published: June 2024

Experiments to study the biology of addiction have historically focused on the mechanisms through which drugs of abuse drive changes in the functioning of neurons and neural circuits. Glia have often been ignored in these studies, however, and this has left many questions in the field unanswered, particularly, surrounding how glia contribute to changes in synaptic plasticity, regulation of neuroinflammation, and functioning of neural ensembles given massive changes in signaling across the CNS. Omics methods (transcriptomics, translatomics, epigenomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and others) have expanded researchers' abilities to generate hypotheses and carry out mechanistic studies of glial cells during acquisition of drug taking, intoxication, withdrawal, and relapse to drug seeking. Here, we present a survey of how omics technological advances are revising our understanding of astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, and ependymal cells in addiction biology.
Psychosocial and clinical factors associated with depression among diabetic patients in Amhara region comprehensive specialized hospitals, Ethiopia, 2022; a multicenter prevalence study
Authors: Belew Makda Abate , Getu Rediet Akele , Getahun Sewunnet Azezew , Dessie Anteneh Mengist , Abeje Eleni Dagnaw , Engda Abayneh Shewangzaw , Teshome Abyot Terefe , Fita Muluken Yigezu , Alemayehu Meron Asmamaw , Workie Sewnet G.
Published: June 2024

Background

Depression commonly coexists with diabetes leads to complications and worsens the outcome. Even though the problem affects low‐ and middle‐income countries including Ethiopia, only a few studies have been done to show the magnitude of the problem and factors associated with it. So, the study was conducted to fill those gaps

Objective

The main objective of this study was to assess psychosocial and clinical factors associated with depression among diabetic patients in Amhara region comprehensive specialized hospitals, Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods

A hospital‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted in randomly selected hospitals of Amhara region from January 7 to February 10, 2022. A total of 426 diabetic patients who were on outpatient follow‐up were selected using a multistage sampling technique. A p‐value of ≤0.25 in the bivariable analysis was used to select variables for the multivariable analysis. A p‐value < 0.05 within a 95% confidence interval was considered to be significantly associated factors.

Result

Out of 426 interviewed diabetes patients 203 (47.7%) had depression. Moderate physical activity (AOR = 0.50, 95% CI (0.29, 0.86)). low medication adherence (AOR = 2.10, 95% CI (1.22, 3.62)), medium medication adherence (AOR = 1.78, 95% CI (1.04, 3.06)), and high social support (AOR = 0.54, 95% CI (0.33, 0.91)) were significantly associated with depression among diabetic patients.

Conclusion

The overall prevalence of depression among diabetic patients was higher than in other developing countries. Hence, special attention to preventing depression and maintaining mental illness among patients with chronic illnesses, especially diabetes should be given.
Introducing PneumNet—A Groundbreaking Dual Version Deep Learning Model for Pneumonia Disease Detection
Authors: Aurangzeb Khursheed , Jamil Sonain , Alhussein Musaed
Published: June 2024

The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) has revolutionized healthcare, particularly in ambient assisted living (AAL). Deep learning has emerged as a powerful tool for identifying disorders and making health‐related decisions. Pneumonia, a dangerous and contagious disease, has a significant global impact. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial, but traditional methods are time‐consuming and require specialized expertise. This research introduces PneumNet, a novel deep‐learning model. PneumNet consists of two versions: PneumNet v1.0 and PneumNet v2.0. The comparative analysis demonstrates PneumNet's exceptional performance. The top model achieves 99.84% accuracy, 99.87% F1‐score, 99.74% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% positive predictive value (PPV), and 99.58% negative predictive value (NPV). PneumNet outperforms other methods, accurately diagnosing pneumonia and improving treatment outcomes. By leveraging deep convolutional neural networks (D‐CNNs), PneumNet provides an efficient and accurate solution for pneumonia detection. These findings highlight the significance of D‐CNNs, particularly the proposed PneumNet model, in enhancing pneumonia detection accuracy and reducing mortality rates. IoMT and deep learning pave the way for transformative advancements in healthcare.
Optical‐resolution photoacoustic microelastography system for elasticity mapping: Phantom study and practical application
Authors: Wan Min , Zhang Yameng , Li Jiani , Qian Zhiyu , Gao Fan , Yang Yamin , Li Weitao
Published: June 2024

Elastography is a noninvasive technique for characterizing the mechanical properties of biological tissues. Conventional methods have limitations in resolution and sensitivity, hindering disease detection in clinical diagnostics. To address these issues, this study developed an optical‐resolution photoacoustic microelastography (OR‐PAME) system. Using an agar tissue phantom with varying agar concentrations and contrast agents, PAME evaluated elasticity distribution under compression in both lateral and axial dimensions. It indirectly measured elastic properties by correlating photoacoustic responses, temporal lags, and induced displacement. We also applied the system to the study of the distribution of elastic characteristics of the liver tissue after ablation, which confirmed the potential of OR‐PAME in the study of elastic characteristics. Quantitative analysis showed greater lateral displacement in regions with reduced agar concentrations, indicating decreased stiffness. PAME also detected vertical displacement along the axial plane, validating its efficacy in elastographic imaging. By improving resolution and penetration, PAME provides superior visualization of elasticity distribution. Its methodology correlates microstructural alterations with tissue biomechanics, holding potential implications in medical diagnostics.