bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Galvanically Replaced Au/Ag Nanostructures as a SERS‐Active Substrate with Progressive Interior Hotspots
Authors: Shin Young Sung , Lee Soo Hyun , Ansah Iris Baffour , Mun ChaeWon , Yang Jun‐Yeong , Lee Seunghun , Kim Dong‐Ho , Park Sung‐Gyu
Published: August 2023

Interior hotspots in surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) platforms have attracted intensive attention because they enable facile methodologies and exhibit excellent sensing behavior. Molecules surrounded by plasmonic materials exhibit dual functions as field‐confined regions and analytes, and their domain consistency eventually triggers the amplification of SERS signals. In this study, to conveniently realize interior hotspots, hollow regions such as voids and interstitials are strategically introduced via a galvanic reaction (GR) as a result of the difference in reduction potential between Au and Ag. The imbalanced stoichiometric ratio and diffusion fluxes induce the Kirkendall effect in conjunction with the GR between Au and Ag. SERS platforms with narrow and densified interior hotspots are optimized by controlling the reaction time. The activation of interior hotspots is confirmed using the finite‐difference time‐domain method, which indicates a theoretical enhancement factor of 1.07 × 107 based on a fourth‐power approximation. The spontaneous GR reaction enables sensing operation with high reproducibility (relative standard deviation of <10%). The proposed bimetallic platforms are used to trace methylene blue and rhodamine 6G dyes until their concentrations reach 50 nm. Therefore, the GR methodology for interior hotspot engineering demonstrates the potential for enabling the fabrication of SERS platforms with practical applications.
Competitive Hydration Versus Migration of Pre‐hydrated Electrons for CO2 Reduction in Aqueous Solution Revealed by Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Gao Liang , Bu Yuxiang
Published: August 2023

Photoinjected excess electrons (EEs) can fulfill the direct reduction of CO2 (CO2R) in an aqueous solution. However, the underlying mechanism is still poorly understood, especially the EE dynamics, which govern reaction mechanisms. Here, using a hybrid functional‐based ab initio molecular dynamic simulation strategy, it accurately characterizes the dynamics details of CO2R by aqueous EEs in solution and uncovers the nature of how EEs migrate for efficient CO2R. The AIMD simulations reveal that the injected EEs undergo hydration with diverse hydrated forms (various pre‐hydrated/e−pre/e22−pre and hydrated/e−aq/e22−aq) and multiple reaction channels due to competition of hydration versus migration. Interestingly, all pathways go through the same relay state [CO22−]aq and reach the same product (HCOO−). The core process before [CO22−]aq is competitive electron hydration and possible e−pre‐migration featuring either slowly flowing or fast jumping mode, while that after [CO22−]aq is proton transfer catalyzed by H‐bonding network as a proton source. The nature is how the concerted hydration dynamics of EEs and target CO2 govern the reaction proceeding through modulating their energy gap . This study provides dynamics insights into CO2R in aqueous solution by diverse e−pre/e−aq and the proposed strategy can also be utilized to explore the reduction mechanisms based on pre‐solvated electrons in other media.
Alzheimer's Progenitor Amyloid‐β Targets and Dissolves Microbial Amyloids and Impairs Biofilm Function
Authors: Ali Syed Aoun , Chung Ka Hang Karen , Forgham Helen , Olsen William P. , Kakinen Aleksandr , Balaji Arunpandian , Otzen Daniel E. , Davis Thomas Paul , Javed Ibrahim
Published: August 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a leading form of dementia where the presence of extra‐neuronal plaques of Amyloid‐β (Aβ) is a pathological hallmark. However, Aβ peptide is also observed in the intestinal tissues of AD patients and animal models. In this study, it is reported that Aβ monomers can target and disintegrate microbial amyloids of FapC and CsgA formed by opportunistic gut pathogens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli, explaining a potential role of Aβ in the gut‐brain axis. Employing a zebrafish‐based transparent in vivo system and whole‐mount live‐imaging, Aβ is observed to diffuse into the vasculature and subsequently localize with FapC or CsgA fibrils that were injected into the tail muscles of the fish. FapC aggregates, produced after Aβ treatment (Faβ), present selective toxicity to SH‐SY5Y neuronal cells while the intestinal Caco‐2 cells are shown to phagocytose Faβ in a non‐toxic cellular process. After remodeling by Aβ, microbial fibrils lose their native function of cell adhesion with intestinal Caco‐2 cells and Aβ dissolves and detaches the microbial fibrils already attached to the cell membrane. Taken together, this study strongly indicates an anti‐biofilm role for Aβ monomers that can help aid in the future development of selective anti‐Alzheimer's and anti‐infective medicine.
A Fully Self‐Powered Wearable Leg Movement Sensing System for Human Health Monitoring
Authors: Yuan Jinfeng , Zhang Yuzhong , Wei Caise , Zhu Rong
Published: August 2023

Energy‐autonomous wearable human activity monitoring is imperative for daily healthcare, benefiting from long‐term sustainable uses. Herein, a fully self‐powered wearable system, enabling real‐time monitoring and assessments of human multimodal health parameters including knee joint movement, metabolic energy, locomotion speed, and skin temperature, which are fully self‐powered by highly‐efficient flexible thermoelectric generators (f‐TEGs) is proposed and developed. The wearable system is composed of f‐TEGs, fabric strain sensors, ultra‐low‐power edge computing, and Bluetooth. The f‐TEGs worn on the leg not only harvest energy from body heat and supply power sustainably for the whole monitoring system, but also serve as zero‐power motion sensors to detect limb movement and skin temperature. The fabric strain sensor made by printing PEDOT: PSS on pre‐stretched nylon fiber‐wrapped rubber band enables high‐fidelity and ultralow‐power measurements on highly‐dynamic knee movements. Edge computing is elaborately designed to estimate multimodal health parameters including time‐varying metabolic energy in real‐time, which are wirelessly transmitted via Bluetooth. The whole monitoring system is operated automatically and intelligently, works sustainably in both static and dynamic states, and is fully self‐powered by the f‐TEGs.
A Multifunctional Delivery System for Remodulating Cell Behaviors of Circulating Malignant Cells to Prevent Cell Fusion
Authors: Han Di , He Xiao‐Yan , Huang Yun , Gao Min , Guo Tao , Ren Xiao‐He , Liao Xin‐Ru , Chen Xue‐Si , Pang Xuan , Cheng Si‐Xue
Published: August 2023

Cell fusion plays a critical role in cancer progression and metastasis. However, effective modulation of the cell fusion behavior and timely evaluation on the cell fusion to provide accurate information for personalized therapy are facing challenges. Here, it demonstrates that the cancer cell fusion behavior can be efficiently modulated and precisely detected through employing a multifunctional delivery vector to realize cancer targeting delivery of a genome editing plasmid and a molecular beacon‐based AND logic gate. The multifunctional delivery vector decorated by AS1411 conjugated hyaluronic acid and NLS‐GE11 peptide conjugated hyaluronic acid can specifically target circulating malignant cells (CMCs) of cancer patients to deliver the genome editing plasmid for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) knockout. The cell fusion between CMCs and endothelial cells can be detected by the AND logic gate delivered by the multifunctional vector. After EGFR knockout, the edited CMCs exhibit dramatically inhibited cell fusion capability, while unedited CMCs can easily fuse with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) to form hybrid cells. This study provides a new therapeutic strategy for preventing cancer progression and a reliable tool for evaluating cancer cell fusion for precise personalized therapy.
3D‐Integrated, Multi‐Functional Carbon Fibers for Stable, High‐Areal‐Capacity Batteries
Authors: Liang Zhiming , Wang Yangyang , Pei Ben , Son Seoung‐Bum , Nguyen Martin , Singstock Nicholas R. , Huang Shaofeng , Mo Michael , Li Jianlin , Whittingham M. Stanley , Ban Chunmei
Published: August 2023

Increasing lithium‐ion batteries' (LIBs) electrode areal capacity can boost energy density and lower manufacturing costs, but faces challenges in manufacturing, rate performance, and cycling stability. A conductive framework made of commercial micro‐sized carbon fibers (Cfs) is presented that serves as a host for both the LiNi0.5Mn0.3Co0.2O2 (NMC 532) cathode and Cfs anode. The Cf framework has multiple functions that offer high electronic conductivity (270 mS cm−1), low tortuosity (1.7), low Li+ diffusion resistance (22 Ω), and high thermal conductivity (200 W mK−1). Additionally, the Cf‐integrated electrodes can have an extremely high mass loading of NMC 532 (70 mg cm−2) with a theoretical capacity of 14 mAh cm−2. Thus, the practical full cells assembled with the Cfs‐enabled electrodes exhibit an initial areal capacity of 4.1 mAh cm−2 and capacity retention of 90.4% at 500 cycles at a cycling rate of C/3, 1.5 mA cm−2. Data collected from the operando isothermal microcalorimetry suggest that full cells utilizing the Cf anode experience less heat release from side reactions compared to cells utilizing a conventional graphite anode. This present approach is scalable and cost‐effective and can fabricate practical LIBs that boast high areal capacity, rate performance, and a lengthy cycling lifetime.
Ultrafast Synthesis of NASICON Solid Electrolytes for Sodium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Zuo Daxian , Yang Lin , Zou Zheyi , Li Shen , Feng Yitian , Harris Stephen J. , Shi Siqi , Wan Jiayu
Published: August 2023

NASICON‐structured solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) are highly promising materials for sodium solid‐state metal batteries (NaSMBs). However, the current synthesis methods are often labor‐intensive and inefficient, consuming a significant amount of energy and time. Here, an ultrafast high‐temperature synthesis (UHS) technique is successfully demonstrated to directly synthesize NASICON‐type SSEs from mixed precursor powders, reducing the synthesis time from hours to merely seconds. The intermediate with a Na3PO4 structure plays a critical role in the rapid synthesis of NASICON‐type SSEs, ultimately leading to the formation of the final NASICON phase. Moreover, the UHS‐synthesizes NASICON‐type Na3.3Zr1.7Lu0.3Si2PO12 (NZLSP) exhibits high room temperature ionic conductivity of 7.7 × 10−4 S cm−1, approximately three times that of the undoped Na3Zr2Si2PO12 (NZSP). The Na|NZLSP|Na symmetric cell can sustain highly stable cycling for over 4800 h. This study provides a novel insight and validation in the precise and targeted synthesis of complex oxide solid‐state electrolytes.
Lessons from a time of upheaval: COVID‐19 in South Asia
Authors: Narayanan Sudha , Raghunathan Kalyani , Rashid Shahidur , Winter‐Nelson Alex
Published: August 2023

Numerous structural vulnerabilities put developing regions at a disadvantage as they confront the prospect of increasingly frequent extreme shocks. Typical of these regions, South Asia had several characteristics that suggested it would be badly hit by COVID‐19: a sizeable informal sector, growing inequalities in access to health services and social protection, and high levels of hunger and malnutrition. This Special Issue focuses on the South Asian experience through COVID‐19 and distills forward‐looking lessons for the developing world. Included papers point to the importance of strengthening individual resilience, building basic infrastructure and institutional capacity, and implementing inclusive social protection measures.
Feasibility of using technology to reduce adsorption reactions in single superphosphate in soybean cultivation in the Savannah
Authors: Morais Lawren Kristine de Oliveira , Cantão Veridiana Cardozo Gonçalves , Francischini Ricardo , Santos Gilmar Oliveira , de Lima Jhonata Sato , de Oliveira Augusto Matias , Sousa Neta Raquel de , Tavares Rose Luiza Moraes , Moraes Kamila Lobato , Peres William
Published: August 2023

The soils of Brazilian Savannah are generally characterized by the predominance of highly weathered and acid Oxisols, with low fertility and high aluminum content, which inhibits the availability of phosphorus (P) for plants. Thus, we seek to develop technologies that minimize P losses. In this way, the objective was to evaluate the agronomic and economic feasibility of using the technology that reduces phosphorus adsorption reactions (TRRA) associated with single superphosphate (SS) in the cultivation of soybeans (Glycine max) in the 2018–2019 and 2019–2020 harvests. The experiment was carried out in the field, in a randomized block design, with four replications and a 4 × 2 × 2 factorial scheme, where doses of 320, 400, 480, and 570 kg ha−1 of SS were used, associated or not with the use of TRRA, in the 2018–2019 and 2019–2020 harvests. The components of yield, grain yield, and economic feasibility were evaluated, calculating the operating cost and the point of maximum economic efficiency (PMEE). The PMEE in the 2018–2019 season occurred with the application of 568 kg ha−1 of SS and, in the 2019–2020 season, it was found with the application of 320 kg ha−1 of SS + TRRA. The best weather conditions in the 2019–2020 season (absence of prolonged water deficit) influenced productivity and improved TRRA efficiency. The economic analysis indicates that the use of TRRA increases the productivity of the soybean crop, generating greater net income for the producer. However, benefits may vary depending on weather conditions.
Willingness to pay for agricultural mechanization services by smallholder farmers in Malawi
Authors: Tufa Adane , Alene Arega , Ngoma Hambulo , Marenya Paswel , Manda Julius , Matin Md Abdul , Thierfelder Christian , Chikoye David
Published: August 2023

One of the main barriers to adopting smallholder agricultural mechanization in developing countries is the mismatch between the economies of scale of machines and farm size. Private sector‐led mechanization services hold a promise to address this challenge, but there is a lack of evidence on demand for smallholder mechanization services. This study estimates the farmers' willingness to pay for mechanization services using the double‐bounded contingent valuation method and data from 1512 households. Results show that, on average, farmers are willing to pay 11%, 33%, and 5% more than prevailing market rates for land preparation, maize shelling, and transportation services, respectively. The amounts farmers are willing to pay for the mechanization services vary by sex, age group, size of cultivated land, the value of farmer assets, market access, and agroecology. Men are willing to pay 26%, 25%, and 11% more than women for land preparation, maize shelling, and transportation services. Moreover, 40% of female and 90% of male farmers are willing to pay more than or equal to the prevailing market rate for land preparation services. The high demand for mechanization services among smallholder farmers points to the need for making the machinery available to rural communities through mechanization service providers or machinery hiring centers run by the private sector. The paper concludes by discussing the contextual factors and policy options for promoting smallholder mechanization in Malawi. [EconLit Citations: O33, Q11, Q13, Q16].
Click‐hydrogel delivered aggregation‐induced emissive nanovesicles for simultaneous remodeling and antibiosis of deep burn wounds
Authors: Chen Xu , Zhao Meijiao , Xie Qihu , Zhou Sitong , Zhong Xiaoping , Zheng Judun , Yang Ronghua , Du Xianjin , Xia Jinyu , Liao Yuhui
Published: August 2023

As a high‐risk trauma, deep burns are always hindered in their repair process by decreased tissue regeneration capacity and persistent infections. In this study, we developed a simultaneous strategy for deep burn wounds treatment using functional nanovesicles with antibacterial and tissue remodeling properties, delivered via a click‐chemistry hydrogel. An aggregation‐induced emission photosensitizer of 4‐(2‐(5‐(4‐(diphenylamino)phenyl)thiophen‐2‐yl)vinyl)‐1‐(2‐hydroxyethyl) pyridin‐1‐ium bromide (THB) with excellent photodynamic properties was first prepared, and then combined with readily accessible adipose stem cells‐derived nanovesicles to generate the THB functionalized nanovesicles (THB@ANVs). The THB@ANVs showed strong antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive bacteria (up to 100% killing rate), and also beneficial effects on tissue remodeling, including promoting cell migration, cell proliferation, and regulating immunity. In addition, we prepared a click‐hydrogel of carboxymethyl chitosan for effective delivery of THB@ANVs on wounds. This hydrogel could be injected to conform to the wound morphology while responding to the acidic microenvironment. In vivo evaluations of wound healing revealed that the THB@ANVs hydrogel dressing efficiently accelerated the healing of second‐degree burn wounds by reducing bacterial growth, regulating inflammation, promoting early angiogenesis, and collagen deposition. This study provides a promising candidate of wound dressing with diverse functions for deep burn wound repair.
Unlocking dynamics of compact methanol reformers during on‐line catalyst activation using transient computational fluid dynamics simulation
Authors: Qiu Runfa , Li Didi , Zhang Wenhao , Cao Chenxi , Zhu Minghui
Published: August 2023

On‐board methanol reforming is a practical solution to supply hydrogen for fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). For commonly employed Cu‐based reforming catalysts, activation has a profound influence on subsequent reaction performance. However, tailoring of this process at the reformer level has received little research attention. Herein, we present the dynamics of compact methanol reformers with Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 catalysts during in situ H2/N2 pre‐activation as a preliminary step of online catalyst activation by computational fluid dynamics simulations. Raising inlet temperatures or hydrogen fractions is demonstrated to accelerate activation while generating a high‐temperature band within the catalyst bed, which hampers effective activation. Increasing the reductant flow rates improves the homogeneity of activation thanks to enhanced convective heat and mass transfer. Notably, we revealed that inlet reductants exceeding 453 K trigger temperature runaway that may severely damage the reformer. These new insights will enlighten optimization of operation and control of on‐board methanol reforming for FCVs.
Tunable Conductive Composite for Printed Sensors and Embedded Circuits
Authors: Nassar Habib , Dahiya Abhishek Singh , Dahiya Ravinder
Published: August 2023

Multimaterial 3D printing is an attractive route for low‐cost fabrication of electronic systems having different types of embedded devices. Herein, tunable thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)‐based conductive composite filaments are presented for development of either strain sensors or different circuit elements. The filaments are developed with two filler materials, namely, silver and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). The influences of filler aspect ratio (AR), concentration, functionalization, and morphology on the composites' mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties are studied. Printed tracks of the 10 wt% high‐AR MWCNT/TPU filament exhibit a maximum electrical conductivity of 0.92 S cm−1 and withstand powers >1 W and currents >100 mA. The filament shows negligible change in impedance over the frequency range 1 kHz–1 MHz and a change in the resistance of <5% with 90° bending. Conversely, printed tracks using filaments with 3 wt% low‐AR MWCNT exhibit a change in resistance of ≈30% with 90° bending, allowing a clear distinction between various bending angles, and thus could be used for embedded strain/bend sensors. These results suggest that, with the correct optimization, multimaterial additive manufacturing can be utilized with tunable conductive filaments to fabricate complex 3D electronic systems by constructing reliable circuit tracks, bendable interconnects, and sensors.
Environmental Adaptability of Legged Robots with Cutaneous Inflation and Sensation
Authors: Kim Taekyoung , Lee Sudong , Chang Shinwon , Hwang Saehui , Park Yong-Lae
Published: August 2023

In this article, a novel approach to enhance the maneuverability and adaptability of legged robots in challenging environments is proposed. This approach involves the integration of soft inflatable sensing skin, which provides additional mobile modes and environmental adaptability. The inflated skin's structural properties, such as buoyancy, volumed shape, and physical compliance, enable quadruped robots to extend their mobility to stable swimming and crawling modes. The inflated skin also offers physical protection through cushioning and backing effects, allowing robots to roll down stair‐like structures. Furthermore, the integration of tactile sensors provides the host robot with accurate and intuitive contact information, enabling increased environmental adaptability and responsive behavior. The robot can protect itself from impacts, detect and detour obstacles, and dynamically interact with its surrounding environment. Overall, the proposed approach offers a synergistic integration of soft inflatable sensing skin and tactile sensors to enhance legged robots’ maneuverability and adaptability in harsh environments. The integrated system enables robots to achieve challenging missions, extending their capabilities beyond conventional locomotive modes. The proposed approach has significant potential applications in fields such as search and rescue, surveillance, and exploration.
Deep Neural Network Regression‐Assisted Pressure Sensor for Decoupling Thermal Variations at Different Operating Temperatures
Authors: Bang Joohyung , Baek Keuntae , Lim Jaeyoung , Han Yongha , So Hongyun
Published: August 2023

Decoupling environment‐dependent response in sensing techniques is essential for the diverse practical applications. This work presents a novel thermal effect decoupling method for sponge pressure sensors based on a deep neural network (DNN) regression model, which is difficult to achieve owing to the material‐ and structure‐related complex effects of the sponge‐based pressure sensor. A poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate)‐based multifunctional device is fabricated with a both pressure and thermally responsive part and an only thermally responsive part; and a DNN model with two input features is adapted to implement the substantial pressure prediction system without thermal interference. Proposed model shows the robust decoupled pressure‐sensing capability with high accuracy of ≈96.23% using two input features. It also enables accurate pressure prediction under both the thermally steady and transition regions, which indicates significant potential for a precise measurement system. These results demonstrate the possibility of reliable pressure monitoring under varying thermal conditions, which is important for accurately measuring pressure in complex power plants, human–machine interfaces, and compact wearable platforms.
Application of Image Sensing System in Mineral/Rock Identification: Sensing Mode and Information Process
Authors: Zhang Shixin , Yang Yiyong , Sun Fuchun , Fang Bin
Published: August 2023

Artificial intelligence promotes the development of mineral/rock automatic recognition technology to reduce labor costs and reliance on personal experience. With instrument digitization, image recognition has played an increasingly important role. This review focuses on the image sensing system applied to mineral/rock identification and redivides this system into a sensing module, an imaging module, and an information processing module. The sensing and imaging mechanisms are summarized via technologies of sensing, imaging, and display. The information processing is classified into single‐modal or multimodal recognition. This review analyzes the limitations of single‐modal recognition and discusses the advantages and significance of multimodal recognition. The challenges of current mineral/rock identification are concluded, such as public database, multimodal learning, and portable sensing system. The interdisciplinary sensing technologies are discussed, and application feasibility is explored. This review aims to provide a reference for the research community in automatic mineral/rock identification and sensing system optimization.
Reconfigurable Design and Modeling of an Underwater Superlimb for Diving Assistance
Authors: Huo Jiayu , Wang Jingran , Guo Yuqin , Qiu Wanghongjie , Chen Mingdong , Asada Harry , Wan Fang , Song Chaoyang
Published: August 2023

This study presents the design of an underwater superlimb as a wearable robot, providing divers with mobility assistance and freeing their hands for manipulating tools underwater. The wearable design features a thrust vectoring system with two 3D‐printed, waterproofed modules. The module with adjustable connections and strapping holes is designed to enable reconfiguration for multiple purposes, including regular use as an underwater superlimb for divers, manually operated as a handheld glider for swimmers, combined with an amphibian, legged robot as a quadruped superlimb, and coupled as a dual‐unit autonomous underwater vehicle for underwater navigation. The kinematics and dynamics of the prototype and all of its reconfigured modes are developed. A sliding‐mode controller is also introduced to achieve stable simulation in PyBullet. Field tests further support the feasibility of the underwater superlimb when worn on a test diver in a swimming pool. As the first underwater superlimb presented in the literature, this study opens new doors for supernumerary robotic limbs in underwater scenarios with multifunctional reconfiguration.
Novel association of Dandy–Walker malformation with CAPN15 variants expands the phenotype of oculogastrointestinal neurodevelopmental syndrome
Authors: Beaman M. Makenzie , Guidugli Lucia , Hammer Monia , Barrows Chelsea , Gregor Anne , Lee Sangmoon , Deak Kristen L. , McDonald Marie T. , Jensen Courtney , Zaki Maha S. , Masri Amira T. , Hobbs Charlotte A. , Gleeson Joseph G. , Cohen Jennifer L.
Published: August 2023

Oculogastrointestinal neurodevelopmental syndrome has been described in seven previously published individuals who harbor biallelic pathogenic variants in the CAPN15 gene. Biallelic missense variants have been reported to demonstrate a phenotype of eye abnormalities and developmental delay, while biallelic loss of function variants exhibit phenotypes including microcephaly and craniofacial abnormalities, cardiac and genitourinary malformations, and abnormal neurologic activity. We report six individuals from three unrelated families harboring biallelic deleterious variants in CAPN15 with phenotypes overlapping those previously described for this disorder. Of the individuals affected, four demonstrate radiographic evidence of the classical triad of Dandy–Walker malformation including hypoplastic vermis, fourth ventricle enlargement, and torcular elevation. Cerebellar anomalies have not been previously reported in association with CAPN15‐related disease. Here, we present three unrelated families with findings consistent with oculogastrointestinal neurodevelopmental syndrome and cerebellar pathology including Dandy–Walker malformation. To corroborate these novel clinical findings, we present supporting data from the mouse model suggesting an important role for this protein in normal cerebellar development. Our findings add six molecularly confirmed cases to the literature and additionally establish a new association of Dandy–Walker malformation with biallelic CAPN15 variants, thereby expanding the neurologic spectrum among patients affected by CAPN15‐related disease.
Different cohort, disparate results: Selection bias is a key factor in autopsy cohorts
Authors: Gauthreaux Kathryn , Kukull Walter A. , Nelson Karin B. , Mock Charles , Chen Yen‐Chi , Chan Kwun C. G. , Fardo David W. , Katsumata Yuriko , Abner Erin L. , Nelson Peter T.
Published: August 2023

INTRODUCTION

Research‐oriented autopsy cohorts provide critical insights into dementia pathobiology. However, different studies sometimes report disparate findings, partially because each study has its own recruitment biases. We hypothesized that a straightforward metric, related to the percentage of research volunteers cognitively normal at recruitment, would predict other inter‐cohort differences.

METHODS

The National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center (NACC) provided data on N = 7178 autopsied participants from 28 individual research centers. Research cohorts were grouped based on the proportion of participants with normal cognition at initial clinical visit.

RESULTS

Cohorts with more participants who were cognitively normal at recruitment contained more individuals who were older, female, had lower frequencies of apolipoprotein E ε4, Lewy body disease, and frontotemporal dementia, but higher rates of cerebrovascular disease. Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology was little different between groups.

DISCUSSION

The percentage of participants recruited while cognitively normal predicted differences in findings in autopsy research cohorts. Most differences were in non‐AD pathologies.

Highlights

Systematic differences exist between autopsy cohorts that serve dementia research.

We propose a metric to use for gauging a research‐oriented autopsy cohort.

It is essential to consider the characteristics of autopsy cohorts.
Ferricyanide Armed Anodes Enable Stable Water Oxidation in Saturated Saline Water at 2 A/cm2
Authors: Liu Wei , Yu Jiage , Sendeku Marshet Getaye , Li Tianshui , Gao Wenqin , Yang Guotao , Kuang Yun , Sun Xiaoming
Published: August 2023

The direct seawater electrolysis at high current density and low overpotential affords an effective strategy toward clean and renewable hydrogen fuel production. However, the severe corrosion of anode as a result of the saturation of Cl− upon continuous seawater feeding seriously hamper the electrolytic process. Herein, cobalt ferricyanide / cobalt phosphide (CoFePBA/Co2P) anodes with Cap/Pin structure are synthesized, which stably catalyze alkaline saturated saline water oxidation at 200–2000 mA cm−2 over hundreds of hours without corrosion. Together with the experimental findings, the molecular dynamics simulations reveal that PO43− and Fe(CN)63− generated by the electrode play synergistic role in repelling Cl− via electrostatic repulsion and dense coverage, which reduced Cl− adsorption by nearly 5‐fold. The novel anionic synergy endow superior corrosion protection for the electrode, and is expected to promote the practical application of saline water electrolysis.
Exploiting the Use of the Decarboxylative S‐Alkylation Reaction to Produce Self‐Blowing, Recyclable Polycarbonate Foams
Authors: Abbasoglu Tansu , Ciardi Diego , Tournilhac Francois , Irusta Lourdes , Sardon Haritz
Published: August 2023

Polymeric foams are widely used in many industrial applications due to their light weight and superior thermal, mechanical, and optical properties. Currently, increasing research efforts is being directed towards the development of greener foam formulations that circumvent the use of isocyanates/blowing agents that are commonly used in the production of foam materials. Here, a straightforward, one‐pot method is presented to prepare self‐blown polycarbonate (PC) foams by exploiting the (decarboxylative) S‐alkylation reaction for in situ generation of the blowing agent (CO2). The concomitant formation of a reactive alcohol intermediate promotes a cascade ring‐opening polymerization of the cyclic carbonates to yield a cross‐linked polymer network. It is shown that these hydroxyl‐functionalized polycarbonate‐based foams can be easily recycled into films through thermal compression molding. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that complete hydrolytic degradation of the foams is possible, thus offering the potential for zero‐waste materials. This straightforward and versatile process broadens the scope of isocyanate‐free, self‐foaming materials, opening a new pathway for next‐generation environmentally friendly foams.
Facile preparation of dual functions zeolite‐carbon composite for zinc ion removal from aqueous solutions
Authors: Ibrahim Nargis H. , Al‐Jubouri Sama M.
Published: August 2023

The cost‐effective dual functions zeolite‐carbon composite (DFZCC) was prepared using an eco‐friendly substrate prepared from bio‐waste and an organic adhesive at intermediate conditions. The green synthesis method used in this study ensures that chemically harmless compounds are used to obtain a homogeneous distribution of zeolite over porous carbon. The greenly prepared dual‐function composite was extensively characterized using Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms, field emission scanning electron microscope, dispersive analysis by X‐ray, and point of zero charges. DFZCC had a surface area of 248.84 m2/g and a pore volume of 0.141 cm3/g. DFZCC was used in the sorption process of Zn2+ ions from aqueous solutions, and it achieved higher removal (98%) at normal pH of 6.4 and temperature of 40°C. The Langmuir model was the best model for representing equilibrium data with a maximum sorption capacity of 6.711 mg/g. The kinetic studies showed that the pseudo‐second‐order model was the most appropriate model for representing experimental data. The intra‐particle diffusion kinetics demonstrated that the boundary film is the rate‐determining step in the sorption process. The sorption process of Zn2+ ions by DFZCC was spontaneous and endothermic. Moreover, solidification of the spent DFZCC by kaolin successfully reduced the leaching ions to the solution after 12 weeks from exposure to a salty solution.
In situ crosslinked electrospun gelatin matrix with unoxidized tannic acid through stable hydrogen bonding
Authors: Firdous Syeda Omara , Arif Kiswa , Wong Siew Yee , Li Xu , Arafat M. Tarik
Published: August 2023

This study aims to comprehend the mechanism of in situ crosslinking of gelatin (Gel) with tannic acid (TA) in an unoxidized environment due to TA's biocompatibility, hydroxyl group abundance, and non‐covalent bonding capability. The crosslinking of gelatin in an unoxidized medium offers advantages over oxidized, including enhanced biocompatibility and simplified reaction conditions. In this study, 20% (w/v) gelatin was crosslinked with varying TA percentages at 45°C, followed by electrospinning to obtain fibrous mats using acetic acid (AA) as the solvent. Increasing TA content resulted in a transition from nanoscale to microscale fiber diameter, indicating increased intermolecular and intramolecular hydrogen bonding. The tensile strength of Gel/TA‐5% was 5.6 MPa, surpassing the Gel/TA‐18% sample, suggesting fewer grafting and branching reactions within TA itself. The stability of the gelatin matrix was evaluated through fiber degradation rates within the initial 7‐day period, with percentages of 25%, 38%, 50%, and 85% observed for 18%, 15%, 10%, and 5% TA concentrations, respectively. The swelling percentage of fibrous mats in a buffer solution of pH 7.4 was highest for Gel/TA‐5% at approximately 290%. At lower TA concentrations, the crosslinking density is constrained; hence, progressive fiber disassembly at pH 7.4 improves the TA release, resulting in greater antibacterial efficacy in the first 4 h. Thus, electrospun fibers from in situ crosslinked gelatin with TA in an unoxidized medium holds promise for applications such as drug delivery and wound dressing, owing to the improved properties and enhanced release capabilities of the resulting gelatin‐based fibers
Surface mineralization with controlled polymerization of dopamine
Authors: Ruppel Scott S. , Liang Junfeng
Published: August 2023

Polydopamine (PDA) has been utilized as a scaffolding for various biomedical applications since its discovery. This versatility arises from the unique property of PDA to coat virtually any surface and its high biocompatibility. In this study, PDA has been used to synthesize calcium phosphate in simulated body fluid on surfaces that normally could not form these mineral layers. PDA has the potential to reduce calcium phosphate. Due to its natural hydrophilicity and the high density of charged surface groups. Adjusting the reaction conditions has been shown to alter the properties of the PDA coatings and in turn the applications. In this study, we will observe how controlling the reaction conditions to adjust properties of PDA can alter the mineral layer formed on the polymer surface. By maximizing the surface area of the polymer, the number of polar groups on the surface available to bind the mineralization. We will illustrate both the degree of mineralization on the surface as well as the chemical content of the minerals. We will illustrate that the ability of PDA to form calcium phosphate can be enhanced to allow for better biocompatibility for biomedical implants.
Conservation of temporary streams: The relevance of spatiotemporal variation in beta diversity
Authors: Rodríguez‐Lozano P. , Lobera G. , Pardo I. , García L. , Garcia C.
Published: August 2023

Temporary streams are affected by increasing human alterations, and this situation is expected to worsen under global change. Understanding biodiversity trends and the contribution of sites and species to β‐diversity is of high importance in establishing conservation priorities at a regional scale.

This paper focuses on aquatic macroinvertebrate biodiversity in temporary streams on the island of Mallorca, using a space–time framework. Differences in α‐diversity, spatial–temporal fluctuations of β‐diversity, local contribution to β‐diversity (LCBD) and species contribution to β‐diversity (SCBD) were examined.

Data analysis shows that only the space–time approach to β‐diversity can capture the full variation of macroinvertebrate composition in temporary streams. This confirmed our hypothesis that β‐diversity patterns are better explained by incorporating the temporal dimension to the space–time approach.

Regarding β‐diversity components, species replacement components always dominate over richness difference. These results imply that β‐diversity variability is mainly caused by differences in species composition, while the relative difference in richness among sites has a minor role. Consequently, the optimal conservation strategy requires the protection of several undisturbed sites.

Although the LCBD analysis did not detect any keystone sites, it helped to identify those sites that should be prioritized for restoration efforts (sites with high LCBD values and low α‐diversity). We also concluded that SCBD analysis should be interpreted carefully, as rare endemic species had low SCBD values.

This study demonstrated the need for incorporating temporal variability in the analysis of biodiversity patterns in highly dynamic ecosystems, such as temporary streams. It also revealed the urgency of preserving a spatial network of temporary streams under non‐impaired conditions that can act as dispersal point sources to other streams for biodiversity conservation. These insights are relevant for Mallorca and other Mediterranean islands, and for the protection of temporary rivers elsewhere.
Links between industrial livestock production, disease including zoonoses and antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Stevenson Peter
Published: August 2023

A range of studies indicates that keeping farm animals in crowded, stressful conditions leads to an increased risk of the emergence, transmission, and amplification of pathogens including zoonoses. Some such zoonoses could lead to a pandemic. Biosecurity, though essential, is not on its own sufficient to prevent the entry of disease into large, intensive livestock housing. To minimize disease risks, both biosecurity measures and the keeping of animals in conditions that are supportive of good health and effective immunocompetence are necessary. A further threat to human health arises from the routine use of antimicrobials in intensive livestock production to prevent disease. This high use of antimicrobials contributes significantly to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance in animals, which can then be transferred to people, thereby undermining the efficacy of the antimicrobials that are so important in human medicine. If we want to save our antimicrobials and minimize the risk of future zoonoses and pandemics, we need to move to “health‐oriented systems” for the rearing of animals, systems in which good health is inherent in the farming methods rather than being dependent on the routine use of antimicrobials. Health‐oriented systems should avoid high stocking densities and large group size, should minimize stress and mixing of animals, and ensure that animals can perform their natural behaviors as the inability to do so is highly stressful. They should avoid the use of animals selected for excessive production levels as these appear to involve an increased risk of immunological problems and pathologies.
Discrete‐time extended state observer‐based model‐free adaptive constrained sliding mode control with modified prescribed performance via CFDL and PFDL
Authors: Huang Xiuwei , Dong Zhiyan , Zhang Feng , Zhang Lihua
Published: August 2023

To tackle the trajectory tracking problem and achieve high control accuracy in many actual nonlinear systems with unknown dynamics and input saturation, a novel discrete‐time extended state observer‐based model‐free adaptive constrained sliding mode control with modified prescribed performance is investigated via compact‐form dynamic linearization (CFDL) and partial‐form dynamic linearization (PFDL). Firstly, the original non‐affine system is turned into an affine one comprising an unknown nonlinear term and a linearly parametric term affine to the input via both PFDL and CFDL. Then, a discrete‐time extended state observer (DESO) is used to estimate the lumped disturbance containing the unknown nonlinear time‐varying term and the term relevant to the estimation error of pseudo partial derivative (PPD) parameter. Furthermore, a modified prescribed performance function is introduced in the model‐free adaptive sliding mode control scheme to keep the output tracking error in the prescribed bound without causing any asymmetric offset error in the steady‐state. Meanwhile, to suppress the influence of input saturation on the control system, an anti‐windup compensator is used. Finally, rigorous theoretical analyses show the robust convergence of the tracking error via the proposed CFDL and PFDL‐based methods under external disturbances. Simulations verify the superiority of the modified prescribed performance function, DESO, and anti‐windup compensator in the proposed method. Also, the effects of the PFDL‐based method and the CFDL‐based one are compared during the simulation.
Investigations into Improved Electrochemical Performance of Sn Doped Hard Carbons as Negatives for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Tripathi Abhinav , Murugesan Chinnasamy , Naden Aaron , Curran Peter , Kavanagh Chris M. , Condliffe James M. , Armstrong A. Robert , Irvine John T. S.
Published: August 2023

Hard carbons are the most suitable anode materials for practical sodium‐ion batteries (NIBs). Despite various studies, there is still significant scope for improvement in the understanding of the (de)sodiation mechanisms. Here, we study Sn incorporation in waste derived commercial and model sucrose derived hard carbons and its effect on the electrochemical performance. Sn incorporation leads to improved first cycle coulombic efficiency and capacity, specifically increase in the plateau capacity. An improvement from 220 mAh/g to 285 mAh/g and 325 mAh/g is respectively obtained for 7 % and 15 % Sn in hard carbon‐Sn composites (HC/Sn). Sn incorporation in both hard carbons has been shown to improve the electrochemical performance, notably achieving a synergy with capacities in excess of that expected from simple addition. For example, 7 % Sn additions tend to increase capacity by 25 %, twice that predicted from simple addition. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) studies show that the number of graphene layers in nano‐graphitic domains is reduced after Sn incorporation with no change in interlayer spacing. Full cells with commercial benchmark cathodes are also presented along with cost analysis of the Sn doping routes in this study to demonstrate the commercial viability of the strategy.
Serum metabolomics probes the molecular mechanism of action of acupuncture on metabolic pathways related to glucose metabolism in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome–related obesity
Authors: Yang Nan , Ma Ke , Liu Weidong , Zhang Ning , Shi Zhouhua , Ren Jian , Xu Wanli , Li Yuqiu , Su Riliang , Liang Yanbo , Wang Shijun , Li Xiuyang
Published: August 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine syndrome, and obesity is the most common clinical manifestation. Acupuncture is effective in treating PCOS, but the differences in the biological mechanisms of acupuncture therapy and Western medicine treatment have not been determined. Thus, the purpose of this study was to find glucose metabolism–related pathways in acupuncture treatment and differentiate them from Western medical treatment. Sixty patients with PCOS‐related obesity were randomly distributed into three groups: patients receiving (1) acupuncture treatment alone, (2) conventional Western medicine treatment, and (3) acupuncture combined with Western medicine treatment. A targeted metabolomics approach was used to identify small molecules and metabolites related to glucose metabolism in the serum of each group, and ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was used to analyze different metabolic fractions. The results showed acupuncture treatment modulates the activity of citric and succinic acids in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, regulates glycolytic and gluconeogenesis pathways, and improves the levels of sex hormones and energy metabolism. The intervention effects on the metabolic pathways were different between patients receiving combination therapy and patients receiving acupuncture therapy alone, suggesting that the dominant modulatory effect of Western drugs may largely conceal the efficacy of acupuncture intervention.
Exploring the uncharted: Missing anatomical names in the Terminologia Anatomica
Authors: Chmielewski Piotr Paweł
Published: August 2023

Effective communication and precise navigation within the intricacies of the human body rely on robust anatomical terminology. Since its creation by the Federative Committee on Anatomical Terminology (FCAT), the Terminologia Anatomica (TA 1998) has consistently served as the benchmark in the field. However, the constant advancement of anatomical knowledge requires regular revisions, updates, and enhancements of anatomical nomenclature to accommodate the latest scientific discoveries. The recent adoption of the second edition of Terminologia Anatomica (TA 2019) by the International Federation of Associations of Anatomists (IFAA) has drawn attention to certain notable omissions. Despite over a century of dedicated work establishing standard anatomical terminology, specific widely recognized gross anatomical structures are still absent from the official listing in the Terminologia Anatomica. There is, however, a consensus that the inclusion of names for trivial or variably present structures should be avoided. Accordingly, this article focuses on a thoughtfully selected group of anatomical structures, which are so important that they are routinely discussed during anatomy courses, despite their exclusion from the official lists of anatomical terms. These basic structures hold fundamental importance for both anatomy education and clinical practice. Consequently, their appropriate nomenclature warrants consideration for inclusion in future editions of TA.