bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exceptional‐Point‐Enhanced Superior Sensing Using Asymmetric Coupled‐Lossy‐Resonator Based Optical Metasurface
Authors: Nag Chowdhury Basudev , Lahiri Pooja , Johnson Nigel P. , De La Rue Richard M. , Lahiri Basudev
Published: December 2024

Exotic optical responses of designed metasurfaces, including non‐Hermitian photonic systems exhibiting exceptional point (EP)‐singularities, offer diverse applications in the field of quantum sensing, laser technology, gravitational‐wave detection as well as biomedical instrumentation for weak signal detection. However, the sensitivity enhancement of such EP‐sensors is limited by quantum/thermal noises. Here we propose a novel scheme of EP‐based superior photonic sensing of any molecule, using suitably designed asymmetric coupled‐lossy‐resonators (ACLR) with a non‐Hermitian Hamiltonian. Unlike conventional approach of EP‐degeneracy lifting, the perturbing Hamiltonian of the molecular‐vibron, in the present method, generates an EP‐singularity by coupling with the ACLR that does not exhibit EP in the unperturbed condition. Raman spectroscopic measurements performed on such systems provide significantly enhanced peaks at the vibronic modes, thereby exploring a novel method for molecule detection with superior sensitivity. Such EP‐sensing is experimentally demonstrated in the current work by detecting the relevant protein‐vibrons of the recombinant Omicron strain of SARS‐CoV‐2 with 350%‐2200% enhanced Raman intensities, using an optical‐metasurface consisting of an array of Au‐asymmetric split‐ring‐resonators as the ACLRs. This work will open up a novel field of EP‐based superior photonic sensing of any molecule, in general, by appropriately designing the ACLR‐structures for detecting molecular‐vibrons with desired enhanced sensitivity.
On the controllability of an interior set degenerate Schrödinger equation
Authors: Alahyane Mohamed , Chrifi Abderrazak , Echarroudi Younes
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we are interested on the null controllability property of a linear degenerate Schrödinger equation with a degeneracy occurring on an interior subset of , where stands for the quantum diffusion. More precisely, we are concerned with the null controllability phenomenon using the classical procedure founded on a new Carleman estimate and afterward a newfangled observability inequality.
Recent Progress in Block Copolymer Self‐Assembly for the Fabrication of Structural Color Pigments
Authors: Guo Jingjing , Wang Jinwei , Wang Fuzhou , Qiao Shiyi , Yang Yonggang , Zhang Chunxiu , Yu Haifeng
Published: December 2024

The self‐assembly of block copolymers (BCPs) into photonic materials has garnered increasing interest due to the versatility and ease of fabrication offered by the synthesized building blocks. BCPs are highly tunable, with their self‐assembled structures' size being adjustable by modifying the block lengths, molecular weight(Mw), and polymer composition. This review provides a concise summary of the use of BCPs as photonic pigments, which generate color through structural manipulation rather than relying on chemical pigmentation. These photonic crystal pigments manipulate light behavior, including interference, diffraction, and diffusion, to generate specific colors. BCPs are categorized into two types: linear block copolymers (LBCPs) and brush block copolymers (BBCPs), each involving different monomers that form photonic crystals(PCs). The structural evolution and advancements of BCPs in various practical applications are also explored. It concludes by suggesting that structural color(SC) pigments based on eco‐friendly PCs may replace traditional chemical ones in fields such as printing ink, biosensing, chemical sensing, and adaptive photonic materials.
Comment on Copolymer Randomization by End‐Group Interchain Exchange Reactions
Authors: Szymanski Ryszard , Kudryavtsev Yaroslav V.
Published: December 2024

The recent paper by Y. V. Kudryavtsev (Macromol. Theory Simul., https://doi.org/10.1002/mats.202400072) describes steady state conditions and kinetics of randomization in homopolymer/copolymer melts undergoing interchain exchange. By focusing on the analysis of the model equations, the author applies pseudo‐first order rate coefficients, which can potentially lead to misleading conclusions, especially concerning kinetics of randomization. In this note, an extended approach, accounting for the second order of the exchange reactions and making the model applicable to polymer solutions, is proposed.
Rubber latex‐assisted improvement of nano‐zinc oxide dispersion in high density polyethylene matrix: A study on the effect of latex type and proportioning
Authors: Li J. , Mou W. , Li X. , Zhu J. , Hu C.
Published: December 2024

Herein, the type of latex and its ratio to nano‐zinc oxide have been investigated for the effectiveness of latex‐assisted dispersion of nano‐zinc oxide. By analyzing the mixed state of latex and nano‐zinc oxide after the addition of coagulants, as well as physical and scanning electron microscope of corresponding composite materials, it was determined that natural rubber latex has the best auxiliary dispersion effect. Based on this result, the effect of the ratio of natural latex to zinc oxide nanoparticles was further investigated. Result showed that when the ratio of the two was too small, the nano‐zinc oxide in the rubber particles would cause the natural rubber latex to fail to solidify rapidly. When the ratio of the two was 2 : 1, the natural rubber latex rapidly solidify and encapsulate the nano‐zinc oxide. Eventually dispersed uniformly in the high density polyethylene matrix. Based on these results, the corresponding composites have a corrected notched impact strength of 142.6 kJ⋅m−2 and a tensile strength of 24.2 MPa. They also have excellent electrical insulation properties. These two properties are retained at a high rate after aging., This work further refines the latex‐assisted dispersion method and can improve the potential of the method for industrial applications.
Management of Osteoporosis in Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review of Clinical Practice Guidelines
Authors: Ó Breasail Mícheál , Singh Karan P. , Lithander Fiona E. , Soh Sze‐Ee , McConvey Victor , McGinley Jennifer , Morris Meg E. , Ebeling Peter R. , Zanker Jesse , Zengin Ayse
Published: December 2024

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the fastest‐growing neurological disorder globally. Defining features include tremor, muscular rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability, which in combination with nonmotor symptoms such as cognitive impairment and orthostatic hypotension increase the risk of falls. Along with low bone mineral density, fracture risk is high in PD.

Objectives

The aims were to identify and appraise clinical practice guidelines, consensus statements, and treatment algorithms containing recommendations for bone health in people with PD (PwP).

Methods

We systematically searched 4 electroninc databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Emcare, and Web of Science) (n = 78), in addition to the websites of organizations, societies, and professional bodies focused on PD or osteoporosis (n = 28), up to April 22, 2024.

Results

After duplicate removal, screening, and full‐text review, 6 records were included. Included records were appraised using the AGREE II (Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation) tool. All records recognized bone health as a concern in PD, yet recommendations for fracture‐risk screening were inconsistent. Two of six records grouped PD under the broad category of neurological diseases. The acceptability and tolerance of anti‐osteoporosis medications in PwP was discussed only in 1 record, which incorporated national osteoporosis guidelines into a PD‐specific treatment algorithm.

Conclusions

This review highlights that despite the documented high fracture rates of PwP, health professionals do not always have adequate resources to support them when considering how to manage osteoporosis. Osteoporosis screening and management needs to be incorporated into PD treatment guidelines, and equally providing specific recommendations for PwP related to bone health in national osteoporosis guidelines should be a priority given the high burden of fracture in the patient population.
Digital Content Provision Under Virtual Tipping
Authors: Wang Wenche
Published: December 2024

The proliferation of digital technology has introduced innovative engagement features between content producers and viewers. Virtual tipping, a novel form of revenue generation, allows viewers to award producers with virtual currency in real‐time. In this paper, we develop a model where content producers generate revenue from both advertisements and virtual tips, aiming to explore how virtual tipping influences the differentiation of digital content. Unlike previous models, we assume that content producers make prior product decisions before entering the platform and can adjust their content in response to platform incentives and viewer demand. Content producers face a trade‐off between expanding market coverage for higher advertisement revenue and prioritizing viewer satisfaction for increased virtual tipping. We derive a platform‐streamer contract involving two incentive devices: a share of virtual tipping revenue and mediated search. Our results suggest that virtual tipping reduces content differentiation, except in cases where differentiation is already minimal. Consequently, virtual tipping encourages both the platform and content producers to prioritize viewer satisfaction, which can be welfare improving. However, the integration of mediated search amplifies virtual tipping's downward force on differentiation, which may counteract the welfare gains.
The Neuroprotective Effect of Rooibos Herbal Tea Against Alzheimer's Disease: A Review
Authors: Chipofya Elias , Docrat Taskeen F. , Marnewick Jeanine L.
Published: December 2024

The world is experiencing a demographic shift toward an increasing proportion of elderly persons. Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other neurological disorders are far more likely to develop as people age. AD is a gradual, irreversible, and degenerative brain disorder that progressively deteriorates memory and cognitive function, eventually leading to death. Treatment for AD is the most significant unmet clinical need in neurology. There are no effective treatment options to prevent or reverse the degenerative process. The current medical management focuses primarily on temporarily easing symptoms, with little or no overall improvement. Although genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors influence the risk of neurodegenerative disorders, recent research suggests that dietary polyphenols with solid antioxidant capacities play crucial roles in determining brain health and aging. Aspalathus linearis is used to produce Rooibos, a popular South African herbal tea, which may modulate neurodegenerative mechanisms such as oxidative stress, tau protein, amyloid plaques, inflammation, and metals, all of which have been associated with AD. We reviewed the literature to evaluate the potential neuroprotective effects of Rooibos and its major flavonoids and to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms.
Kinetics of the Aqueous‐Phase Copolymerization of AA and HPEG Macromonomer in Acidic Media
Authors: Palma‐Lemus Kevin , Hamzehlou Shaghayegh , Froidevaux Vincent , Boustingorry Pascal , Leiza Jose Ramon
Published: December 2024

Water‐soluble monomers are extensively used in the production of polymeric materials in aqueous media for various applications. Acrylic acid–polyethylene glycol 2‐methyl‐2‐propenyl ether (AA‐HPEG) copolymers belong to the class of comb‐like polycarboxylate ether (PCE) polymers, employed as superplasticizers for cementitious materials. Due to different reactivity ratios of AA and HPEG, semibatch operations with optimized monomer addition profiles are required to enhance the incorporation of HPEG into the copolymer. The kinetics of this system is complex and, like other water‐soluble monomers, depends on monomer concentration, pH, and ionic strength. Despite its high‐volume industrial usage, the kinetics of this system have received little attention in the literature. Furthermore, the presence of the HPEG, with 55 ethylene oxide (EO) units in the side chain, complicates the precise determination of individual monomer conversions. To address this, various characterization methods are evaluated, including proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR) and size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC). Results show that HPEG conversion is determined more accurately using 1H‐NMR signals from the polymer than unreacted monomer signals or SEC traces. Aqueous semibatch AA‐HPEG copolymerization experiments are conducted in acidic media to investigate the effects of comonomer feeding time, initiator and chain‐transfer agent concentrations on the copolymerization kinetics, HPEG incorporation, and molar mass.
Assessment of risk prediction scores for venous thromboembolism in ambulatory cancer patients with solid tumors receiving chemotherapy: A comparative analysis
Authors: Muthukumar Hamsaveni , Jose Wesley Mannirathil , Haridas Nikhil Krishna , Nair Anjali Sajikumar , Pavithran Keechilat
Published: December 2024

Objective

Cancer patients have a 4−7‐fold increased risk of thrombotic complications due to cancer as well as chemotherapy‐induced hypercoagulable state. This study compared the different risk assessment models (Khorana, PROTECHT, CONKO, and COMPASS‐CAT scores) that help predict venous thromboembolism (VTE) in ambulatory cancer patients. Early identification of high‐risk patients would benefit from thromboprophylaxis, thereby improving the mortality and morbidity due to thrombotic events.

Methods

This is a single‐center, prospective, cross‐sectional study on ambulatory patients with solid malignancy. The study was conducted over six months, from March 2022 to August 2022. Data on VTE predictors were gathered from 230 ambulatory cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Results

Among the 230 patients receiving chemotherapy, 20 were diagnosed with VTE, with the majority of this population being either diagnosed with gynecological cancer or lung cancer, constituting 25% of VTE‐diagnosed patients. The Khorana score, with a VTE accuracy of 83.04%, was found to be the highest, followed by the CONKO (80.00%), PROTECHT (69.57%), COMPASS‐CAT Ⅱ (54.35%), and COMPASS‐CAT Ⅰ (38.26%) scores. The cumulative incidence of VTE among high‐risk patients showed that the PROTECHT score had the highest cumulative incidence (CI = 14.28), and the CONKO score had the lowest (CI = 9.40).

Conclusion

The Khorana score was the most accurate, followed by the CONKO, PROTECHT, and COMPASS‐CAT Ⅱ scores, while the COMPASS‐CAT Ⅰ score was the least accurate. Hence, the Khorana scoring is essential for diagnosing VTE in patients with ambulatory cancer treated with chemotherapy.
Are We Able to Optimize Outcomes and Predict Complications in Pelvic Floor Surgery With a Better Understanding of Hormonal, Microbial and Other Factors? A Report From the ICI‐RS 2024
Authors: Taithongchai A. , Reid F. , Agro E. Finazzi , Rosato E. , Bianchi D. , Serati M. , Da Silva A. S. , Giarenis I. , Robinson D. , Abrams P.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition, affecting women worldwide and is known to have a significant impact on Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL). Although there are various treatment options available, including pelvic floor muscle training and support pessaries, many women opt for or require surgery, with a lifetime risk of needing surgery of 12%–19%. As with any operation, this does not come without its complications and the reoperation rate following POP surgery is up to 36%.

This International Consultation on Incontinence–Research Society (ICI‐RS) report aims to look at the different factors which may play a role in objective and subjective outcomes following pelvic floor surgery and to summarize the evidence and uncertainties regarding prediction of POP surgical outcomes, how to optimize them and the tools available to predict them. Research question proposals to further this field have been highlighted.

Methods

At ICI‐RS 2024, the evidence for predicting the outcomes from POP surgery and methods to optimize outcomes were discussed and presented in this paper.

Results

There are many reasons why POP surgery may fail, such as variations in lifestyle and occupation, persistent constipation, failure in the perineal body, connective tissue types or the shape of the pelvis. There may also be inherent conditions of the vagina, such as hormonal or microbial features. The literature lacks evidence about the potential use of advanced statistical modeling or supervised machine learning in the development of management plans for patients with POP. Furthermore, future research is needed to determine the role of UDS in the preoperative evaluation of POP patients.

Conclusions

High‐quality powered studies are required to assess optimization for long‐term outcomes of pelvic surgery and then, once these are well established, and possible interventions are elucidated, prediction modeling can have a real impact clinically.
Optimizing 3D‐Printing Parameters for Enhanced Mechanical Properties in Liquid Crystalline Polymer Components
Authors: Battistelli Chiara , Seriani Stefano , Lughi Vanni , Slejko Emanuele Alberto
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the influence of three critical 3D‐printing parameters—layer height, print speed, and extrusion temperature—on the mechanical properties of liquid crystalline polymer 3D‐printed specimens, using a low‐end 3D‐printer. The extrusion process during 3D‐printing can further align the molecular domains within the material along a common direction, leading to a reinforced polymer structure with superior properties. Specifically, the tensile strength, deformation at rupture, and flexural elastic modulus were evaluated to determine how layer height, print speed, and extrusion temperature affect the structural integrity of the printed components. The results demonstrate a significant improvement in both tensile strength and flexural modulus with the reduction of layer height from 0.16 to 0.08 mm. The study highlights the challenges associated with interlayer adhesion in liquid crystalline polymers 3D‐printing, which is crucial for optimizing the mechanical performance of printed parts. Post‐processing annealing was conducted over a wide temperature range (100°C–250°C), revealing its potential to further enhance material strength, though molecular diffusion emerged as a limiting factor in its effectiveness. By successfully demonstrating these advancements with a low‐end 3D printer, this research paves the way for wider adoption of liquid crystalline polymers in additive manufacturing. The use of accessible and cost‐effective equipment ensures that these high‐performance materials can be integrated into diverse applications, promoting democratization of advanced polymer technologies.
Development and Investigation of Biodegradable Hybrid Fiber Sandwiched Composites Using Ultrasonication
Authors: Kartik Shubham S , Pandey Ajay , Purohit Rajesh
Published: December 2024

Lightweight and highly strong polymer composites are popular and used in a variety of industries, such as consumer products, electronics, packaging, healthcare, textiles, and aviation. This study examines the production of hybrid polymer nano composites (HPNCs) and their mechanical and physical characterization. HPNCs were developed by embedding eight layers of bidirectional Banana and Kevlar fiber along with nano‐graphene oxide (GO) and epoxy as the matrix material. The novelty in this research was done by employing an ultrasonication machine for uniform dispersion of nano‐sized GO particles and varying the stacking sequence of fiber (KKBKKBKK) followed by variation in GO (0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1) wt.% in HPNCs. The optimum values of various mechanical properties such as flexural strength, tensile strength, hardness, and inter‐laminar shear strength were found for the 0.50 wt.% of GO which are 532.13, 552.42, 88.12, and 53.08 MPa, respectively. The optimum impact strength of 878.87 J/m was obtained at 0.25 wt.% of GO. Densities, void content, and water absorption tests were done under physical characterization. The surface morphology and homogeneity of HPNC were done using the FE‐SEM test.
A Whole MED12 Gene Deletion in a Female Fetus With Features Encountered in Hardikar Syndrome
Authors: Wu Liping , Xu Jinmao , Cong Xiaoyi , Zhang Tong , Pei Yuanyuan , Liu Jinghua , Zheng Hongping , Liu Weiqiang
Published: December 2024

Chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA), methylation‐specific multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MS‐MLPA), and trio‐whole exome sequencing (WES) were performed in a female fetus with omphalocele. A de novo heterozygous 300‐kb deletion in the Xq13.1 region, which includes the MED12 gene, was identified. Follow‐up ultrasound at 18+4 weeks of gestation revealed features consistent with Hardikar syndrome (HS), including a right‐sided cleft lip and palate, an omphalocele with intestines, a diaphragmatic hernia with the stomach in the left thoracic cavity, and displacement of the heart to the right. Phenotypic evaluation confirmed the presence of a cleft lip and palate as well as umbilical hernia. These findings suggest that a heterozygous deletion of the entire MED12 gene may contribute to the HS phenotype. This case extends the possible damaging effects of haploinsufficiency of the MED12 gene in the pathogenesis of HS.
Predictive Value of Individual Behavioral Risk Factors for New Mood‐Related Psychiatric Disorder After Diagnosis of Cancer
Authors: Villalona Seiichi , Perez Carlos Chavez , Wileyto E. Paul , Takvorian Samuel , Gabriel Peter , Doucette Abigail , Blumenthal Daniel , Schnoll Robert
Published: December 2024

Objective

The diagnosis of a mood‐related psychiatric disorder (MRPD) among patients with cancer has been associated with decreased quality of life and lower cancer survival. This study aimed to understand the risk of a new MRPD after cancer diagnosis by individual risk behaviors, with a specific focus on tobacco use and the presence of a human papillomavirus (HPV)‐associated cancer.

Methods

Single‐center retrospective cohort study of 11,712 patients diagnosed with cancer between 2009 and 2020. We identified predictors of a new MRPD after cancer diagnosis using a time‐to‐event analysis and Cox proportional hazards model including demographics, disease characteristics, and tobacco use and HPV‐associated tumors.

Results

Univariate analyses revealed lower hazard ratios (HRs) of a new MRPD among individuals that identified as Asian/Pacific Islanders and among the older age groups (> 51 years). Univariate analyses additionally demonstrated higher HRs of MRPD among females; sexual minorities; former and current smokers; individuals with HPV‐associated cancers; and individuals diagnosed at later stages. These relationships were observed in the multivariate model when adjusting for covariates. Shorter time‐to‐MRPD was observed when stratifying by individual behavioral risk factors, with active smokers and individuals with an HPV‐associated cancer being at the highest risk.

Conclusions

Individual behavioral risk factors increase risk of new MRPD after being diagnosed with cancer. These findings build on past studies by linking tobacco use and HPV‐associated cancers with MRPD risk in oncology and can be used to identify patients at risk of developing new MRPDs post‐cancer diagnosis and engaging them in treatment.
Activity‐Based Proteome Profiling of Serum Serine Hydrolases: Application in Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma
Authors: Maret Estelle , Wiskott Kim , Shipley Tobias , Gilardi Federica , Augsburger Marc , Thomas Aurelien , Fracasso Tony , Sajic Tatjana
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Traumatic brain injury (TBI), including pediatric abusive head trauma (AHT), is the leading cause of death and disability in children and young adults worldwide. The current understanding of trauma‐induced molecular changes in the brain of human subjects with intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) remains inadequate and requires further investigation to improve the outcome and management of TBI in the clinic. Calcium‐mediated damage at the site of brain injury has been shown to activate several catalytic enzymes.

Experimental Design

Serine hydrolases (SHs) are major catalytic enzymes involved in the biochemical pathways of blood coagulation, systemic inflammation, and neuronal signaling. Here, we investigated activity‐based protein profiling (ABPP) coupled to liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) by measuring the activity status of SH enzymes in the serum of infants with severe ICH as a consequence of AHT or atraumatic infants who died of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Results

Our proof‐of‐principle study revealed significantly reduced physiological activity of dozens of metabolic SHs in the serum of infants with severe AHT compared to the SIDS group, with some of the enzymes being related to neurodevelopment and basic brain metabolism.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the ABPP of the SHs enzyme family to detect changes in their physiological activity in blood serum in severe TBI. We used antemortem (AM) serum from infants under the age of 2 years who were victims of AHT with a severe form of ICH. The analytical approach used in the proof‐of‐principle study shows reduced activities of serum serine lipases in AHT cases and could be further investigated in mild forms of AHT, which currently show 30% of misdiagnosed cases in clinics.
An effective method for quantification, visualization, and analysis of 3D cell shape during early embryogenesis
Authors: Li Zelin , Huang Zhaoke , Cao Jianfeng , Guan Guoye , Zhao Zhongying , Yan Hong
Published: December 2024

Embryogenesis is the most basic process in developmental biology. Effectively and simply quantifying cell shape is challenging for the complex and dynamic 3D embryonic cells. Traditional descriptors such as volume, surface area, and mean curvature often fall short, providing only a global view and lacking in local detail and reconstruction capability. Addressing this, we introduce an effective integrated method, 3D Cell Shape Quantification (3DCSQ), for transforming digitized 3D cell shapes into analytical feature vectors, named eigengrid (proposed grid descriptor like eigen value), eigenharmonic, and eigenspectrum. We uniquely combine spherical grids, spherical harmonics, and principal component analysis for cell shape quantification. We demonstrate 3DCSQ’s effectiveness in recognizing cellular morphological phenotypes and clustering cells. Applied to Caenorhabditis elegans embryos of 29 living embryos from 4‐ to 350‐cell stages, 3DCSQ identifies and quantifies biologically reproducible cellular patterns including distinct skin cell deformations. We also provide automatically cell shape lineaging analysis program. This method not only systematizes cell shape description and evaluation but also monitors cell differentiation through shape changes, presenting an advancement in biological imaging and analysis.
Cooperative Robust Output Regulation for Networks of Hyperbolic Systems With Unknown Signal Models
Authors: Enderes Tarik , Deutscher Joachim
Published: December 2024

This Paper considers the cooperative robust output regulation problem for networks of heterodirectional hyperbolic systems, where the leader and disturbance dynamics are unknown to the followers. For this, a diffusively driven internal model is used, whose parameters are updated using an adaptive cooperative observer. The latter only communicates the coefficients of the characteristic polynomials related to the signal models. Hence, a minimal communication load is ensured, as, in addition, only the control inputs of the regulator have to be exchanged through the network. The adaptive internal model also ensures cooperative output regulation in the presence of model uncertainties, that do not destabilize the closed‐loop system. A systematic backstepping approach is presented for stabilizing the uncertain closed‐loop system. For this, solvability conditions are derived in terms of the agents transfer behaviour and the network topology. The presented adaptive regulator is validated in simulations for a network of three uncertain hyperbolic agents.
Hierarchically Porous Microgels with Interior Spiral Canals for High‐Efficiency Delivery of Stem Cells in Wound Healing
Authors: Zhan Zhen , Wang Yuting , Xie Hanhan , Yang Ming , Ruan Muyang , Liu Xuefei , Liu Jialing , Liu Zeyang , Wen Feiqiu , Hong Xin , Hu Chengzhi
Published: December 2024

Chronic wound poses a serious risk to diabetic patients, primarily due to damaged skin microvasculature and prolonged inflammation at the wound site. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy utilizing microgels as a cell delivery system has shown promise in promoting wound healing by enhancing cell viability and the secretion of bioactive factors. Retaining sufficient MSCs at injury sites is crucial for optimal therapeutic outcomes. However, inadequate hierarchical structure and limited use of the microgel's interior space significantly reduce cell proliferation and infiltration efficiency, thereby compromising the therapeutic effect. To address this, a microfluidic approach is developed for fabricating porous hierarchical interconnected microgels with interior spiral canals (PHIGels) by employing a fluidic “viscous instability” effect and gas formation reaction during the microfluidic synthesis. These MSC‐laden PHIGel scaffolds facilitate rapid proliferation and infiltration into the interior spiral canals through a hierarchical pore network, significantly increasing the number of viable cells that can be carried by the microgels. It is proved that these microgel‐based deliveries of MSCs promote re‐epithelialization, collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and reduction in inflammation, thus enhancing cutaneous wound repair in a rat model of type I diabetes. The microporosity and hierarchical design of these microgels offer novel routes for tissue regeneration and repair.
Phase Stability of High Entropy (Mg,Ni,Co,Cu,Zn)O from Temperature‐Resolved Synchrotron Diffraction: Tetragonal Distortion and Guggenite Phase
Authors: Coduri Mauro , Fracchia Martina , Checchia Stefano , Manzoli Maela , Dejoie Catherine , Ghigna Paolo , Anselmi‐Tamburini Umberto
Published: December 2024

The temperature‐resolved structure evolution of quinary and quaternary equimolar oxides containing Mg, Ni, Zn, Co, and Cu is investigated by in situ synchrotron diffraction. Important structural modifications occur already at mild temperatures and depend on the elements involved. All quaternary compounds with χ(Cu) = 0.25 within 250–500 °C show a tetragonal phase. The fraction of Cu dictates the degree of the tetragonal distortion: for χ(Cu) = 0.20 only local distortions are observed, which do not occur in the absence of Cu. Further heating restores the original cubic phase, followed by the segregation of other phases, which depend on the elements available. In the presence of both Cu and Mg, the segregation of guggenite is observed, a phase with a cation connectivity similar to the cubic high entropy oxide, but with a suitable coordination environment for Cu atoms by allowing strong elongation of octahedra. Guggenite acts as a buffer layer facilitating the gradual diffusion of Cu2+ from the cubic high entropy oxide to tenorite. To conclude, it is demonstrated for the first time that the demixing of the prototypal high entropy oxide does not involve just tenorite or binary oxides, it is rather mediated by the formation of guggenite.
Multifunctional Optimization of MXene for Enhanced Comprehensive Performance of Crystal Silicon‐MXene Back‐Heterojunction Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Xiaoyang , Tong Hongbo , Li Yali , Li Wenxuan , Wan Guodong , Liu Qiming , Fu Yujun , He Deyan , Li Zhenguo , Li Junshuai
Published: December 2024

Enhancing the cost‐performance ratio is a fundamental objective for the advancement of the photovoltaic sector. In this context, the development of innovative solar cells that offer a straightforward device configuration but high performance is arguably the most crucial element. Herein, an undoped back‐heterojunction crystalline silicon (c‐Si) solar cell is endeavored to be crafted by simply drop‐casting a Ti3C2Tx MXene ethanol colloidal solution onto the backside of an n‐type c‐Si (n‐Si) wafer. Leveraging the good electrical property and stability, as well as the adjustable work function of MXene treated by europium trifluoromethanesulfonate (Eu(OTF)3), the elementary Ag/ZnO/n‐Si/MXene/Ag solar cell delivers an impressive power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.5%. Moreover, the deposition of a SiO2 passivation layer through a simple self‐developed electrochemical method increases the PCE further to 13.5% by ameliorating the interfacial contact between MXene and n‐Si. Moreover, this unencapsulated solar cell exhibits improved stability, compared to the control device without Eu(OTF)3 treatment and SiO2 passivation.
Thermal‐Triggered Sustainable Defect Passivation for Stable Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Wen , Cui Zhengbo , Li Yunfei , Feng Bo , Weng Qiang , Xu Jianhong , Mao Yunjie , You Tengyi , Shu Ting , Zhang Wenxiao , Li Xiaodong , Fang Junfeng
Published: December 2024

The defect is of great importance for perovskite solar cells (PSCs). During device aging, the already well‐passivated perovskite can still generate new defects. Traditional passivating approaches are unable to well passivate these newly generated defects, thus affecting device performance. Herein, a thermal‐triggered sustainable defect passivation strategy is proposed by employing a heat‐induced molten passivator of perfluorobutylsulphonamide (PBSA). PBSA will change to liquid after heat treatment, flowing to the generation sites of new defects and passivate them, thus inducing degraded efficiency recover and enhancing device stability. Resulting PSCs with PBSA exhibit high efficiency of 24.34% with good stability, retaining >90% of initial efficiency after ultraviolet aging for 500 h.
Analysis of Model Specific Features for the Development of a Non-Contact Reference Point System on a Flexible Gripper
Authors: Sattler Julia-Christina , Todtermuschke Marcel , Voigt Alexander , Ihlenfeldt Steffen
Published: December 2024

The increasing diversity of models and variants in the automotive industry is leading to new challenges in the flexibilization of the body shop production process, especially the gripper systems. One way of making the component handling process more flexible by using type-variable grippers is to replace the mechanical reference point pins with virtual sensor technology, which ensures positionally and repeatedly accurate handling per component.

One major challenge in using sensory technology for type-variable components is determining the necessary measuring range, which depends on the varying position and size of the reference points per model. In order to design a sustainable solution, the definition of a measurement range for both current and future model types is essential as well.

According to the current state of the art, no optimal sensor parameters are known for the use case described. Additionally there are no existing studies that provide a guideline for the recommended position of reference points depending on the sensor technology used.

This paper presents the approach of investigating characteristics of various reference points with regard to their position and geometry in order to define a measurement range for the usage of sensor technology. To optimize the determined measuring ranges, various scenarios of component alignment are examined and their influence on the sensor parameters identified. Here the example of interior door parts of different vehicle segments is applied as a use case.

In the result, a system framework for positioning reference points is defined based on the investigated use case and a recommendation is made for the parameters of the sensor technology to be used. Furthermore the systematic alignment of components leads to a reduction of sensor parameters. These results can be used for positioning reference points in future models.
Framework for Modeling and Evaluating Information Flows in Flexible Manufacturing Systems
Authors: Welzel Kira , Wilde Anna-Sophia , Bulut Yasin , Juraschek Max , Herrmann Christoph
Published: December 2024

In the manufacturing industry, flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) are gaining importance in meeting the demand for product customization while maintaining high manufacturing efficiency. The digitization of physical manufacturing additionally expands the relevance of industrial communication networks, resulting in complex interactions of material, energy and information flows that pose challenges for the manufacturing system design. Existing decision support frameworks for the design of FMS mainly incorporate the evaluation of the material flow. A holistic view of FMS requires the consideration of the interdependencies of the material, energy and information flow. Particularly, the performance of the material flow of a manufacturing system increasingly depends on the information flow of the connected communication network. Against this background, the paper presents a simulation-based framework that enables the integrated quantitative evaluation of material, energy and information flows in FMS as decision support in manufacturing system design. The framework contains a modular reference model of a generic FMS and its communication network to reduce modeling efforts. It further provides a procedure and an evaluation model that enable a multi-criteria comparison of different FMS configurations. The functionality and benefits of the developed framework are examined with the help of an exemplary case study involving an FMS for producing and recycling polymer parts.
3d-Shaped High-Strength Parts from Partially Delignified and Densified Wood—Introduction of the Project HolzF3
Authors: Grosse Thomas , Müller Ulrich , Jakob Matthias , Feist Florian , Luxner Mathias H. , Knoebl Wolfgang
Published: December 2024

This study explores the potential of wood-based materials in sustainable lightweight automotive applications. The research focuses on overcoming the challenge of balancing complex three-dimensional design with component stiffness and strength in crash-relevant vehicle structures. The study investigates a novel approach involving partial delignification and subsequent densification of wood, previously shown to significantly enhance mechanical properties in solid wood. The HolzF3 project applies this technique to chipboard materials (strands) and small-diameter birch and beech wood, which are typically used for energy production only. By utilizing smaller semi-finished products like strands, complex three-dimensional component shapes become feasible, with densification compensating for potential loss in mechanical performance. Initial results demonstrate the effectiveness of a two-step densification process in producing high-strength wood fractions from veneers and strands derived from small-diameter birch and beech roundwood. This process increases raw material density to 0.92-1.19 g/cmB3, while significantly improving tensile strength and stiffness. Notably, densified birch veneers achieved tensile strength up to 400 MPa and stiffness up to 40 GPa, comparable to industrially available veneers. The study concludes that this approach enables the utilization of previously undervalued wood fractions in high-quality material applications, particularly in the automotive industry. This innovation not only improves product sustainability and reduces COb footprint but also creates new opportunies for sustainable value-added processes in the mobility sector.
Influence of Two Closed Recycling-Loops on the Mechanical and Material Properties of Expanded Polypropylene Beads
Authors: Handtke Sören , Hain Jörg , Fischer Fabian , Ossowski Tim , Hartwig Sven , Dröder Klaus
Published: December 2024

Car manufacturers are currently facing the challenge of making their products and production more sustainable in order to comply with sustainability requirements and legislation. For example, the latest draft legislation in the European Union requires a general use of 25% recycled material for plastic parts, of which 25% should be post-consumer recyclate (PCR). One way to make products more sustainable is to reduce the carbon footprint of fossil-based plastic parts. This can be achieved by using lightweight parts with minimum material input and therefore low density on the one hand, and recycled materials on the other. Particle foam parts have the potential to meet both requirements. Expanded polypropylene (EPP) parts are currently used in vehicles for their lightweight potential, insulating and energy absorbing properties.

To achieve sustainable particle foam parts made from EPP, the recycled content must be increased while meeting material and mechanical property requirements. For this purpose, three simulated life cycles with two recycling loops were carried out on virgin EPP. The virgin material was processed to specimens in a steamfree process and then artificially aged to replicate automotive life cycle stresses. Then, the mechanical properties were evaluated, mechanical recycling was carried out and an EPP particle foam with 100% recycled content was produced and processed. Meanwhile, the material properties, such as thermal and chemical properties, were determined and analysed comparatively.

After each recycling cycle the influences of different aging mechanisms and processing steps on the properties could be demonstrated. The molecular chain structure shows a clear dependence on the number of recycling steps, resulting in a more inhomogeneous distribution. Compression properties show a decrease of 13,7% after the first recycling step and 39,25% after the second recycling step.

Overall, the recyclability of EPP material has been demonstrated, potentially allowing the use of higher levels of recycled content.
On the Systematic Selection of CE Strategies for End-of-Life-Products: A Guide for Practitioners
Authors: Dvorak Julia , Stanzl Leonie , Lachnit Tobias , Benfer Martin , Balzereit Frank , Lanza Gisela
Published: December 2024

Motivated by the goal of reducing resource consumption, industries around the globe are rethinking their linear production systems to move towards a circular economy (CE). CE strategies must be selected individually for each product and each instance. The scope of the decision logic developed in this work was constrained to reuse, repair, remanufacture, recycle, and recover. Following this, factors that influence the selection of a strategy are identified based on literature and expert interviews and mapped to the selected CE strategies. A criteria clustering occurs according to PESTEL categories (political, economic, sociological, technical considering product and process, environmental and legal). A pairwise comparison of criteria is made based on which a hierarchy is established. In addition, strategic factors were assigned a higher order in the hierarchy. This order provides the basis for the decision trees to be created. In a first decision tree, suitable CE strategies are identified at a high level based on the product properties for which the applicability is validated in a second tree. This procedure may be followed in an iterating manner for the whole product and its components. In the logic, criteria can be either strategic (for example, process setup) or operational (decision at the product instance level). The termination criterion is the selection of the CE strategy ‘recover’ or product disposal. The selection of CE strategies was validated using the example of batteries used in electric vehicles. For this purpose, two scenarios with differing product states were developed, and the decision logic was applied to both.
From Lab to Loop - Designing Sustainable Pathways Towards a Circular Economy in the Automotive Industry - A Digital Hub
Authors: Remke Lisa , Philipp Marlon , Hoppe Christoph , Koch Benjamin
Published: December 2024

Climate change and resource scarcity pose existential long-term threats to humanity. To tackle these issues the adoption of circular economy (CE) measures presents a viable option to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and preserve resources by reusing products and materials. Building on these insights, the DIONA project (Digital Ecosystem for a Sustainable Circular Economy in the Automotive Industry) aims to support the German automotive industries’ circular efforts through the development and operation of a Digital Hub, which facilitates cross-company collaboration to advance and share sustainable CE practices. Consequently, we conducted a multi-pronged approach, involving a rigorous process of examining previous hub initiatives, reviewing case studies, conducting interviews, and initiating focus group discussions with industry leading experts from the automotive industry. Through this process, we articulate a strategic roadmap, where we define goals, identify, and schedule milestones and assort the activities necessary for a successful realization of the Digital Hub. The primary objectives of the hub encompass (1) fostering an open and collaborative culture, (2) encouraging companies to share best practices, pool resources, and (3) strengthening collective investments in sustainable initiatives. In addition, the roadmap considers stakeholders beyond the business community. It also addresses government agencies, research institutions, and Non-Governmental Organizations in the digital ecosystem and builds a holistic approach to a sustainable CE. The first results of the conducted studies suggest that a combination of virtual and physical actions is necessary to trigger collaboration. In this roadmap, we align a variety of stakeholders and provide valuable insights, into the cross-collaboration of twelve scientific research projects working together to shape a CE. Hence, the roadmap represents a pioneering effort to address pressing economic and environmental issues and offers a vision for a more sustainable and prosperous automotive industry.
Information as Key for Strategic Stakeholder Opportunities Within the Value Chain of an Advanced Circular Economy
Authors: Wallat Phillip , Lawrenz Sebastian , Nippraschk Mathias
Published: December 2024

Designing resource-efficient products, aided by digitalization, offers additional potential to consider improved circularity of the product for the whole value chain. Distribution of data is crucial to provide key information for relevant stakeholders, to guide and support their decisions regarding the product of interest. Stakeholders have different interests in certain sets of data. Streamlining the data exchange will lead to improved efficiency for all involved parties. Therefore, the lifecycle of products has to be examined; the most relevant stakeholders, with their ability to extract and distribute data, are identified; and who has an interest in combined datasets from all stakeholders at what point in time were investigated. Hence, combining datasets has to take into account that time is a factor. Loss of information over time, as well as the necessary data-velocity, are important to provide valid datasets.

The result is a schematic overview of the data and information exchange between stakeholders over time. Additional stakeholder data sets are defined and who is involved in providing data to X. Tailored information will be generated out of those data sets, depending on individual interests. The Stakeholder-Datasets are structured in static and dynamic information, potential loss of information, and information velocity between stakeholders. The mobility value chain is used to schematically show which stakeholders need which data set as information, in order to utilize potential that has not yet been tapped. To integrate these results along recent research, the product passport model is applied. The developed schematics are still on a meta-level and shall provide a procedure for further research based on case studies to enhance the advanced circular economy (Definition: Advanced Circular Economy: A circular economy supported with digitized information systems to aid optimization of the whole value chain in the economic system).