bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA‐Origami in der Biomedizin ‐ Trendbericht Biochemie 2024 (3/3)
Authors: Heuer‐Jungemann Amelie
Published: July 2024

Chemische Proteinsynthese: Neue Techniken in der Durchflusschemie und selektive Ligationsmethoden ermöglichen, komplexe und präzise modifizierte Peptide und Proteine für biologische Anwendungen herzustellen. Funktionelle Charakterisierung: Mit Methoden aus Mikrobiologie, chemischer Biologie und Biochemie untersuchen Forschende die molekulare Funktion bakterieller Enzyme des Mikrobioms und decken so deren Relevanz bei der Entwicklung von Darmerkrankungen auf. DNA‐Origami: Biomoleküle auf mikro‐ und nanoskopischer Ebene zu untersuchen soll helfen, neue Therapeutika zu entwickeln, herzustellen und an ihren Zielort zu bringen. Besonders die Interaktionen von Proteinen miteinander und mit Ligandenmolekülen sind dabei wichtig.
Wer Hochschulen leitet
Authors: Leusmann Eliza
Published: July 2024

Details zu den Leitenden an deutschen Hochschulen verrät eine Auswertung des Centrums für Hochschulentwicklung.
BMI and mortality in critically ill patients with COVID‐19: another brick in the wall of the obesity paradox
Authors: Perez Amanda Vilaverde , Viana Marina Verçoza , Dall'Orto Thomazini Ludmilla , Loss Sérgio Henrique , de Machado Fernanda Cassanta Richa , do Nascimento Aline Graziele , Kropidlofscky Amanda Pinto , Gerchman Fernando , Leitão Cristiane Bauermann , Rech Tatiana Helena , Pellegrini José Augusto Santos
Published: July 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the existence of the obesity paradox in patients with COVID‐19 admitted to the intensive care unit.

Methods

This was a multicentric retrospective cohort study including individuals aged 18 years or older admitted to the intensive care unit with SARS‐CoV‐2. Data were obtained from electronic medical records. The primary outcome was in‐hospital mortality. Multiple logistic regression and restricted cubic splines analyses were conducted to assess the association between BMI and mortality.

Results

From March 2020 to December 2021, 977 patients met the inclusion criteria, and 868 were included in the analysis. Obesity was identified in 382 patients (44%). Patients with obesity more often underwent prone positioning (42% vs. 28%; p < 0.001), although they used less vasoactive medications (57% vs. 68%; p < 0.001). The overall in‐hospital mortality was 48%, with 44% observed in the subgroup of individuals with obesity and 50% in those without obesity (p = 0.06). Patients with BMI < 25 kg/m2 had the highest mortality.

Conclusions

Obesity was not associated with higher mortality rates in critically ill patients with COVID‐19. Moreover, patients with BMI < 25 kg/m2 had a higher mortality rate compared with those in higher BMI categories.
Surface engineering of textile structural composites with ZnO nanorods and graphene nanofillers for aircrew helmet applications
Authors: Singh Omender , Behera B. K.
Published: July 2024

This research aimed to augment the properties of interfibre interfaces through surface treatment with ZnO nanorods while simultaneously modifying the matrix with graphene nanoplatelets. The strategic approach of this research focused on synergizing these interventions to enhance the mesomechanical, and macromechanical properties, which are specifically targeted at improving the performance of aircrew helmets. This study investigated the effectiveness of these enhancements in improving the mechanical performance of aircrew helmets. The synergy of integrating ZnO nanorods and doped GNPs into Kevlar fabric resulted in a 29% increase in impact energy absorption compared to that of the standard Kevlar composite. Furthermore, the composite samples underwent thorough analysis through techniques such as thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging. The findings indicate that incorporating 1% graphene nanofillers into Kevlar during the fourth seed cycle of ZnO treatment yields favorable mechanical performance characteristics. SEM at 50 KX magnification provided detailed visualization of the ZnO nanorods grafted onto the fabric substrates, with subsequent evaluation of the morphological damage and fractography of the impacted composites. The findings of this research hold significance for advancing the understanding of composite material behavior under impact loads and contribute to ongoing efforts to enhance the durability and performance of structural composites in diverse applications.

Highlights

Synergistic treatment with ZnO nanorods and graphene nanoplatelets boosted Kevlar composite properties for aircrew helmets.

Adding 1% graphene during ZnO treatment increased impact energy absorption by 29%.

Comprehensive analysis validated treatment efficacy, showing substantial mechanical improvements.

The research advances composite understanding, paving the way for durable, high‐performance materials for applications like aircrew helmets.
Enhanced dielectric properties of nanocomposites with cyanoethyl cellulose and core‐shell structured BaTiO3@Al2O3 fillers
Authors: Yang Yuchen , Cheng Sen , Ye Zi , Lu Chunhua , Guo Kai , Zhu Ning , Hu Xin
Published: July 2024

The interface between the polymer matrix and inorganic fillers plays a determinative role in dielectric properties of the composites. In this work, dielectric composites containing core‐shell structured BaTiO3@Al2O3 (BT@AO) nanoparticles and cyano functionalized cellulose (cyanoethyl cellulose, CEC) were prepared to achieve enhanced interface and dielectric properties. With the wide bandgap Al2O3 (AO) shell, the carrier motion inspired by elevating electric filed and temperature was significantly impeded in the composites. Meanwhile, the moderate dielectric constant and surface energy of AO shell between CEC and BaTiO3 (BT) alleviated the inhomogeneous local electric field distribution and improve the interfacial compatibility between inorganic filler and CEC matrix. As a result, enhanced dielectric properties including restrained dielectric loss (0.23 for BT@AO/CEC versus 0.51 for BT/CEC at 100 Hz), suppressed conductivity, increased breakdown strength and improved dielectric constant were accessed in the BT@AO/CEC composites. The excellent thermal conductivity of AO also offered the composites with additional advantage of low electrical conductivity at high temperature of 100°C (1.56 × 10−10 S/cm) exhibiting two orders of magnitude smaller than that of pure CEC.

Highlights

Core‐shell structured BaTiO3@Al2O3 were prepared and incorporated into cyanoethylated cellulose to yield flexible nanocomposites.

Carrier motion was significantly restricted by the wide band gap of Al2O3 shell.

Enhanced interfacial compatibility was accessed in the BaTiO3@Al2O3/CEC composite.

Improved dielectric properties and thermal conductivity were achieved.
Ist der Weltraum süß oder sauer?
Authors: Wang Jia , Marks Joshua H. , Kaiser Ralf I. , Fortenberry Ryan C.
Published: July 2024

Mit Hilfe der Photoionisations‐Reflektron‐Flugzeit‐Massenspektrometrie konnten wir die Synthese von Glycerinsäure unter den Bedingungen eisiger Molekülwolken im tiefen Weltraum nachahmen. Dies simuliert den Übergang von kalten Molekülwolken zu Sternentstehungsgebieten. Die Ergebnisse liefern überzeugende Hinweise auf die Existenz von Glycerinsäure im nördlichen Kern von Sagittarius B2, einer riesigen Molekülwolke aus Gas und Staub mit reger Sternentstehung nahe am Zentrum der Galaxie.
Modulation of programmed death‐ligand 1 expression to augment sensitivity to atezolizumab in breast cancer cells through nonthermal air gas plasma
Authors: Borkar Shweta B. , Patel Paritosh , Negi Manorma , Acharya Tirtha Raj , Kaushik Neha , Choi Eun Ha , Kaushik Nagendra K.
Published: July 2024

The aggressiveness and limited treatment options make triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) a challenging condition to treat. Immune checkpoint blockade therapy, explicitly targeting the programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) pathway, is a promising therapeutic approach. However, the effectiveness of PD‐L1 inhibitors like atezolizumab depends on adequate PD‐L1 expression within cancer cells. To this end, this study used nonthermal plasma (NTP) to modulate PD‐L1 in TNBC cells. The current investigation revealed that NTP treatment leads to an upregulation of PD‐L1; this might increase the availability of PD‐L1 to PD‐L1 inhibitors. These findings suggest that shortly NTP could be used as an adjunctive treatment to immunotherapy in TNBC cells.
Detection of Salmonella and Escherichia coli along the Fish Value Chain in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia
Authors: Ayalew Temesgen Sendekie , Tarekegn Habtamu Tassew , Ayalew Belayneh Getachew
Published: July 2024

Background

Fish is a possible source of foodborne infections with Salmonella and Escherichia coli. This study was conducted to identify Salmonella and E. coli along the fish value chain in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was undertaken with purposive sampling. A total of 121 specimens comprising fresh fish, retailing fish, filleted and cooked fish, swabs, and water samples were collected. Both culture based and molecular methods were used for detection.

Results

E. coli isolated from 41 (33.88%) and Salmonella from 6 (4.96%) specimen. The highest E. coli isolation rate was from retailing fish 16 (80%), whereas the highest Salmonella isolation rate from filleted tissue 2 (20%). At restaurants, 12 (30%) samples were positive for E. coli and 3 (7.50%) for Salmonella. All 41 E. coli isolates were resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanate, whereas no resistance was shown for gentamicin and amikacin. Two thirds of Salmonella isolate and 95.12% of E. coli were detected as they develop multidrug resistance. The highest rate of resistance was recorded for ceftazidime against all (n = 6) isolates of Salmonella species. From a total of 10 E. coli isolates tested by PCR, 4 were positive for hemolysin A1 and/or eae virulence genes.

Conclusions

The study detects the potential biological hazards along the value chain. Hygiene of fish handlers and their working environment and proper fish cooking are highly valuable. One health campaign should be carried out on drug resistance, contamination of the lake, and fish safety.
Delivery of Mental Health Services in Bhutan: Challenges and Way Forward
Authors: Gyeltshen Kelzang , Chhetri Bikram , Gyeltshen Dawa
Published: July 2024

Bhutan is known for its developmental philosophy of Gross National Happiness. Bhutan introduced mental health services in 1997 with the launch of Mental Health Program. Mental health includes psychological, emotional, and social well‐being. The Department of Psychiatry, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in the capital city Thimphu is the only psychiatric unit providing specialized mental health services in Bhutan. The psychiatric unit consists of multidisciplinary team rendering both out‐ and in‐patient mental health services. However, mental health services were gradually integrated in district hospitals, Primary Healthcare Centres and in schools. Although mental health services are an essential component of the healthcare system, the system faces numerous difficulties. Inaccessibility to mental health services due to geographical location and inadequate mental health professionals poses challenges in addressing mental health issues. Mental health issues are perceived differently, and the people with mental health issues often suffer from stigmatization creating barriers in seeking mental health services. Therefore, misconception and stigma associated to mental illness also cause greater challenges in delivering mental health services. Mental health funding has been substantially lower than the World Health Organization recommended mental health budget, amounting to 1% of health budget. Inadequate mental health funding remained a serious concern for the last few decades. Adequate mental health funding is vital in expanding the overall Mental Health Program and improving both the quality and quantity of mental health professionals. Additionally, enhancing community mental health initiatives will reinforce mental health services. Furthermore, there is a need for advancements in evidence and mental health research to support evidence‐based practices and enhance mental health literacy.
Efficacy of aspirin for prevention of preeclampsia in twin pregnancy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Elhalag Rowan H. , Chèbl Pensée , Abowafia Marwan , Mohamed Mai Saad , Moussa Momen Hassan , Ghali Paula , Abdelwahab Abdelrhaman M. , Alboji Shadi , Abourady Youmna , Shah Jaffer , Motawea Karam R.
Published: July 2024

Background

Aspirin has been proven to be effective in preventing preeclampsia (PE) in singleton pregnancies. However, the use of aspirin for women with twin pregnancies is still debatable. The purpose of our meta‐analysis is to evaluate the effectiveness of aspirin for preventing preeclampsia in twin pregnancies.

Methods

We searched the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Web of Science. Twelve studies were included in the meta‐analysis. The quality assessment and ROB were executed using NOS and ROB 2 respectively. RevMan software 5.4 was used for performing the analysis.

Results

The pooled analysis showed no significant difference between the administration of aspirin and the control group in decreased incidence of PE, hypertensive disorders, IUGR or twin‐to‐twin discordance (RR = 0.73, CI = 0.43–1.24, p = 0.24), (RR = 0.60, CI = 0.34–1.07, p = 0.08), (RR = 0.90, CI = 0.45–1.82, p = 0.77) and (RR = 1.76, CI = 0.83–3.73, p = 0.14), respectively. However, the pooled analysis showed a statistically significant association between aspirin and decreased incidence of preterm birth (PTB) (RR = 0.58, CI = 0.39–0.86, p = 0.006). Subgroup analysis of the dose revealed a significant association between 100 mg of aspirin and decreased PE incidence compared with the control group (RR = 0.44, CI = 0.23–0.84, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

The overall analysis showed no significant role of Aspirin in reducing the incidence of PE. The dose subgroup analysis revealed that only 100 mg of Aspirin is effective in decreasing PE. Future multicentre randomized control trials are warranted to give us conclusive results.
Computational Insights into Enzyme‐Substrate Binding Interplay Exhibit Variable Binding Attributes: A Framework for Implementing Oxidoreductase‐Based Applications
Authors: Kumar Singh Anil , Kumar Katari Sudheer , Umamaheswari Amineni , Ahmad Imran , Ali Amena , Barkat Abul , Ali Abuzer , Siddiqui Sahabjada
Published: July 2024

Laccase (LAC) is a potent multicopper oxidase that relies on O2 for its catalytic activity. LAC has been affirmed as an environmentally friendly biocatalyst that often catalyzes a wide array of phenolic substrates. Bacterial‐derived LACs have been less investigated for non‐phenolic substrates in contrast to fungi‐derived LAC. To comprehend the substrates (3,4‐Dimethoxybenzyl alcohol, and Dimer (Guaiacyl 4‐O‐5 guaiacyl) binding interactions of LAC (Thermus thermophilus HB27) was carried out and contrasted with fungal‐derived Lignin peroxidase (LiP) (Trametes cervina) exploiting computational methods, including physicochemical properties, Sequence Annotated by Structure (SAS), Extra precision docking (Glide), and DESMOND‐directed MD‐ simulation. Protein structures exhibited by LAC, and LiP have diverse dissimilar component architects. The XP docking suggested LiP‐Dimer seems to have a comparatively lowest binding affinity (−8.413 kcal/mol), with an MMGBSA score of −33.249 kcal/mol. Further, docked complexes were validated leveraging 50 ns NPT system‐based MD‐simulation for structural and functional stability. The system achieved equilibrium and stability at the end of the simulation, with only the LiP‐3,4‐Dimethoxybenzyl alcohol complex maintained stability. The results of this study offer a framework for improving the binding ability of substrates by way of the use of in‐silico protein engineering, which might eventually result in more effective catalytic applications.
Rational Design Strategy for High‐Valence Metal‐Driven Electronically Modulated High‐Entropy Co–Ni–Fe–Cu–Mo (Oxy)Hydroxide as Superior Multifunctional Electrocatalysts
Authors: Khan Imran , Khan Salman , Alwan Basem Al , Jery Atef El , Shayan Muhammad , Wang Shiliang , Hassan Sibt ul , Rizwan Muhammad
Published: July 2024

Creating durable and efficient multifunctional electrocatalysts capable of high current densities at low applied potentials is crucial for widespread industrial use in hydrogen production. Herein, a Co–Ni–Fe–Cu–Mo (oxy)hydroxide electrocatalyst with abundant grain boundaries on nickel foam using a scalable coating method followed by chemical precipitation is synthesized. This technique efficiently organizes hierarchical Co–Ni–Fe–Cu–Mo (oxy)hydroxide nanoparticles within ultrafine crystalline regions (<4 nm), enriched with numerous grain boundaries, enhancing catalytic site density and facilitating charge and mass transfer. The resulting catalyst, structured into nanosheets enriched with grain boundaries, exhibits superior electrocatalytic activity. It achieves a reduced overpotential of 199 mV at 10 mA cm2 current density with a Tafel slope of 48.8 mV dec1 in a 1 m KOH solution, maintaining stability over 72 h. Advanced analytical techniques reveal that incorporating high‐valency copper and molybdenum elements significantly enhances lattice oxygen activation, attributed to weakened metal–oxygen bonds facilitating the lattice oxygen mechanism (LOM). Synchrotron radiation studies confirm a synergistic interaction among constituent elements. Furthermore, the developed high‐entropy electrode demonstrates exceptional long‐term stability under high current density in alkaline environments, showcasing the effectiveness of high‐entropy strategies in advancing electrocatalytic materials for energy‐related applications.
Flexible Hydrazone‐Linked Metal‐Covalent Organic Frameworks with Copper Clusters for Efficient Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Lin Chao , Ma Huayun , He Jun‐Ru , Xu Qing , Song Meng , Cui Cheng‐Xing , Chen Yong , Li Chun‐Xiang , Jiao Mingli , Zhai Lipeng
Published: July 2024

Despite the challenges associated with the synthesis of flexible metal‐covalent organic frameworks (MCOFs), these offer the unique advantage of maximizing the atomic utilization efficiency. However, the construction of flexible MCOFs with flexible building units or linkages has rarely been reported. In this study, novel flexible MCOFs are constructed using flexible building blocks and copper clusters with hydrazone linkages. The heterometallic frameworks (Cu, Co) are prepared through the hydrazone linkage coordination method and evaluated as catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Owing to the spatial separation and functional cooperation of the heterometallic MCOF catalysts, the as‐synthesized MCOFs exhibited outstanding catalytic activities with an overpotential of 268.8 mV at 10 mA cm–2 for the OER in 1 M KOH, which is superior to those of the reported covalent organic frameworks (COFs)‐based OER catalysts. Theoretical calculations further elucidated the synergistic effect of heterometallic active sites within the linkages and frameworks, contributing to the enhanced OER activity. This study thus introduces a novel approach to the fundamental design of flexible MCOF catalysts for the OER, emphasizing their enhanced atomic utilization efficiency.
Rapidly Prepared Lithophilic Frameworks Stabilizes Lithium Anodes via Altered Lithium Deposition Patterns
Authors: Cai Weiming , Gao Yuancan , Feng Wei , Xu Junwei , Wang Meng , Sun Jiale , Cao Mengxue , Qu Zhongqing , Liu Xuying , Huang Xia , Zhou Haihui , Huang Zhongyuan
Published: July 2024

Lithium metal batteries are regarded as promising candidates for next‐generation energy storage systems. However, their anodes are susceptible to interfacial instability due to significant volume changes, which significantly impacts the cycle life of lithium metal batteries. Here, a rapid method for the fabrication of 3D‐hosts with interface modified layers is reported. A simple infiltration and heating process enables the transformation of copper foam into Zn‐BDC‐modified copper foam within 1 min, rendering it suitable for use as a current collector for lithium metal anodes. The Zn‐BDC nanosheets with high lithiophilicity are uniformly distributed on the surface of the current collector, facilitating the uniform deposition of lithium and reducing the volume change. Consequently, the half cell exhibits a remarkably low overpotential (26 mV) at a current–density of 4 mA cm−2 and is cycled stably for 1000 h. Furthermore, it demonstrates a significant enhancement in performance in the LiFePO4 full cell. This study provides a crucial reference on the connection between the interfacial modification of the current collector and the lithium deposition behavior, which promotes the practicalization of lithium metal anodes.
Scalable Cathodic H2O2 Electrosynthesis using Cobalt‐Coordinated Nanocellulose Electrocatalyst
Authors: Qian Zhiyun , Liu Di , Liu Detao , Luo Yao , Ji Wenhao , Wang Yan , Chen Yonghao , Hu Rui , Pan Hui , Wu Peilin , Duan Yulong
Published: July 2024

Converting hierarchical biomass structure into cutting‐edge architecture of electrocatalysts can effectively relieve the extreme dependency of nonrenewable fossil‐fuel‐resources typically suffering from low cost‐effectiveness, scarce supplies, and adverse environmental impacts. A cost‐effective cobalt‐coordinated nanocellulose (CNF) strategy is reported for realizing a high‐performance 2e‐ORR electrocatalysts through molecular engineering of hybrid ZIFs‐CNF architecture. By a coordination and pyrolysis process, it generates substantial oxygen‐capturing active sites within the typically oxygen‐insulating cellulose, promoting O2 mass and electron transfer efficiency along the nanostructured Co3O4 anchored with CNF‐based biochar. The Co‐CNF electrocatalyst exhibits an exceptional H2O2 electrosynthesis efficiency of ≈510.58 mg L−1 cm−2 h−1 with an exceptional superiority over the existing biochar‐, or fossil‐fuel‐derived electrocatalysts. The combination of the electrocatalysts with stainless steel mesh serving as a dual cathode can strongly decompose regular organic pollutants (up to 99.43% removal efficiency by 30 min), showing to be a desirable approach for clean environmental remediation with sustainability, ecological safety, and high‐performance.
Gastric Cancer Assembloids Derived from Patient‐Derived Xenografts: A Preclinical Model for Therapeutic Drug Screening
Authors: Xu Xinxin , Gao Yunhe , Dai Jianli , Wang Qianqian , Wang Zixuan , Liang Wenquan , Zhang Qing , Ma Wenbo , Liu Zibo , Luo Hao , Qiao Zhi , Li Li , Wang Zijian , Chen Lin , Zhang Yanmei , Xiong Zhuo
Published: July 2024

The construction of reliable preclinical models is crucial for understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in gastric cancer and for advancing precision medicine. Currently, existing in vitro tumor models often do not accurately replicate the human gastric cancer environment and are unsuitable for high‐throughput therapeutic drug screening. In this study, droplet microfluidic technology is employed to create novel gastric cancer assembloids by encapsulating patient‐derived xenograft gastric cancer cells and patient stromal cells in Gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)‐Gelatin‐Matrigel microgels. The usage of GelMA‐Gelatin‐Matrigel composite hydrogel effectively alleviated cell aggregation and sedimentation during the assembly process, allowing for the handling of large volumes of cell‐laden hydrogel and the uniform generation of assembloids in a high‐throughput manner. Notably, the patient‐derived xenograft assembloids exhibited high consistency with primary tumors at both transcriptomic and histological levels, and can be efficiently scaled up for preclinical drug screening efforts. Furthermore, the drug screening results clearly demonstrated that the in vitro assembloid model closely mirrored in vivo drug responses. Thus, these findings suggest that gastric cancer assembloids, which effectively replicate the in vivo tumor microenvironment, show promise for enabling more precise high‐throughput drug screening and predicting the clinical outcomes of various drugs.
3D Porous Fibers with Spatial Traps and Excellent Zn2+ Transport Kinetics Enable Stable Zn‐Based Aqueous Battery
Authors: Chen Xiang , Chen Yuting , Li Yuanyuan , Guo Can , Pu Jun , Liu Yang , Li Xiaoge , Yao Yagang , Gong Wenbin , Xue Pan , Han Jie
Published: July 2024

Adverse side reactions and uncontrolled Zn dendrites growth are the dominant factors that have restricted the application of Zn ion batteries. Herein, a 3D self‐supporting porous carbon fibers (denoted as PCFs) host is developed with “trap” effect to adjust the Zn deposition. The unique open structural design of N‐doped carbon can act as the zincophilic sites to induce uniform deposition and inhibit adverse side reactions. More importantly, the porous hollow PCFs host with “trap” effect can induce Zn deposition in the fiber by adjusting the local electric field and current density, thereby increasing the specific energy density of the battery and inhibiting dendrite growth. In addition, the 3D open frameworks can regulate Zn2+ flux to enable outstanding cycling performance at ultra‐high current densities. As expected, the PCFs framework guarantees the uniform Zn plating and stripping with an outstanding stability over 6000 cycles at the current density of 40 mA cm−2. And the Zn@PCFs||MnO2 full battery shows an excellent lifespan over 1300 cycles at 2000 mA g−1.
Bifacial Wide‐Gap (Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)Se2Solar Cell with 13.6% Efficiency Using In2O3:W as a Back Contact Material
Authors: Keller Jan , Stolt Lars , Donzel-Gargand Olivier , Violas André F. , Kubart Tomas , Edoff Marika
Published: July 2024

This study evaluates In2O3:W as a transparent back contact material in wide‐gap (bandgap range = 1.44–1.52 eV) (Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)Se2(ACIGS) solar cells for potential application as a top cell in a tandem device. High silver concentrations and close‐stoichiometric absorber compositions result in a complete depletion of free charge carriers, allowing for decent electron collection, despite the low diffusion length. Remarkable efficiencies of 13.6% and 7.5% are reached using 1 μm‐ and 400 nm‐thick absorbers, respectively. At rear illumination (i.e., superstrate backwall), the best cell shows an efficiency of 8.7%. For each of the four analyzed samples, the short‐circuit current at rear illumination reaches at least 60% of the value at front illumination. Losses arise from recombination at the back contact and a too low drift/diffusion length. The parasitic absorption by the transparent electrodes for photon energies close to the bandgap of a potential Si bottom cell (1.1 eV) is close to 15%. Strategies to reduce this value and to further increase the efficiency are discussed.
Effect of Different Calcium and Magnesium Treatments on the Evolution of Nonmetallic Inclusions in AH36 Ship Plate Steel
Authors: Wu Ting , Peng Chun‐Lin , Kong Hui , Kang Lei , Cheng Xiang , Zhang Peng , Qiu Yue
Published: July 2024

Comprehensive thermodynamic calculations and high‐temperature experiments are performed to systematically evaluate the effect of calcium and magnesium additions on the modification and control of inclusions in AH36 ship plate steel. The results show that Al2O3 or MgAl2O4 inclusions are formed under the casting temperature conditions. Calcium treatment modifies the inclusions into calcium aluminate, of which components partially fall into the liquidus region, and the aspect ratio and number density of inclusions became smaller, avoiding nozzle clogging, but the inclusions are easy to gather and grow up, which would affect the steel properties. Magnesium treatment modifies the inclusions into dispersed magnesium‐aluminum spinel with small size. However, the number density and aspect ratio of inclusions increase, as well as the melting points of inclusions are high, which would easily cause nozzle clogging. When calcium–magnesium synergistic treatment, with the increase of magnesium proportion, the inclusions types increased, and the liquidus area of inclusions became narrower until it disappeared. Synergistic treatment with more calcium and less magnesium (Ca2Mg1) is optimal since the inclusions were fine and diffuse, and the corresponding liquidus area of inclusions is wider than the calcium treatment.
Accelerating the Exploration of High‐Entropy Alloys: Synergistic Effects of Integrating Computational Simulation and Experiments
Authors: Jiang Deyu , Li Yuhua , Wang Liqiang , Zhang Lai‐Chang
Published: July 2024

High‐entropy alloys (HEAs) are novel materials composed of multiple elements with nearly equal concentrations and they exhibit exceptional properties such as high strength, ductility, thermal stability, and corrosion resistance. However, the intricate and diverse structures of HEAs pose significant challenges to understanding and predicting their behavior at different length scales. This review summarizes recent advances in computational simulations and experiments of structure‐property relationships in HEAs at the nano/micro scales. Various methods such as first‐principles calculations, molecular dynamics simulations, phase diagram calculations, and finite element simulations are discussed for revealing atomic/chemical and crystal structures, defect formation and migration, diffusion and phase transition, phase formation and stability, stress‐strain distribution, deformation behavior, and thermodynamic properties of HEAs. Emphasis is placed on the synergistic effects of computational simulations and experiments in terms of validation and complementarity to provide insights into the underlying mechanisms and evolutionary rules of HEAs. Additionally, current challenges and future directions for computational and experimental studies of HEAs are identified, including accuracy, efficiency, and scalability of methods, integration of multiscale and multiphysics models, and exploration of practical applications of HEAs.
Measuring dynamic supply chain risks for the offshoring decision in the post‐COVID‐19 era: A longitudinal study
Authors: Min Hokey , Ahn Young‐Hyo , Ma Jin‐Hee
Published: July 2024

In times of prolonged economic doldrums across the globe, multinational firms (MNFs) offshoring blunders can undermine their competitiveness in the marketplace. To help the MNF formulate a more resilient offshoring strategy and identify the most desirable offshoring destination, this article aims to identify dynamic risk factors that significantly hinder the efficiency of offshoring and then measure specific offshoring risks over time using two different versions of data envelopment analysis (DEA) models and Malmquist productivity index (MPI). After assessing the degree of risk resiliency of the offshoring host countries over extended periods and then conducting Tobit regression analysis to identify key factors that significantly influence offshoring risks, we found that the host country's logistics efficiency (i.e., logistics performance index [LPI]) and domestic market size were critical indicators of offshoring success in that country. Since low‐cost sourcing countries (LCCs) tend to have relatively low LPIs and smaller domestic market sizes, they are not attractive offshoring destinations. This finding defies conventional wisdom. This article is one of the first longitudinal studies to assess the comprehensive risk resilience of 87 different offshoring destinations (countries) during multiple periods (6‐year span).
Methacrylic acid grafted inulin and carboxymethyl cellulose as additives in the development of pH sensitive hydrogel matrix for colon targeting
Authors: Dutta Pallobi , Mukherjee Kaushik , Giri Tapan Kumar
Published: July 2024

Compression‐coated matrix tablets were developed to target budesonide (BUD) in the colonic region using methacrylic acid (MAA) grafted inulin (INU) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). INU was grafted with MAA to impart anionic characteristics to the gum, making it feasible to form a hydrogel by cross‐linking with calcium gluconate (CG). The core matrix made up of MAA‐g‐INU alone disintegrated within 30 min and the core matrix made up of CMC alone completely released BUD within 6 h. The combination of MAA‐g‐INU and CMC produced a rigid matrix, which was able to completely release BUD after 7 h. Compression coating of the core tablets with MAA‐g‐INU and CMC did not release BUD in the first 4 h, and complete BUD release took place in the next 4 h. Compression coating led to the formation of a rigid and viscous gel layer outside the core matrices, which hindered BUD release. We conclude that compression coating with CG cross‐linked CMC and MAA‐g‐INU could be used as a matrix for colonic delivery of drugs.

Highlights

Compression coated matrices were developed for colonic delivery of BUD.

The matrix retained drug release up to 4 h in upper gastrointestinal tract (GIT).

The matrix exhibited complete drug release in the next 4 h in the colon.
A simple infiltrometer automated with a user‐friendly pressure datalogger
Authors: Leite Pedro A. M. , Di Prima Simone , Schmidt Logan M. , Wilcox Bradford P.
Published: July 2024

We have constructed a new, simplified constant‐head infiltrometer automated with a self‐contained water level datalogger (HOBO U20L‐01) repurposed to measure changes in gas pressure inside an inverted bottle reservoir. Our field tests of six of these infiltrometers confirmed that recorded changes in gas pressure were strongly correlated with changes in water level in the infiltrometer reservoir (R2 = 0.9998). Further, by using the derived experimental calibration function, we were able to obtain accurate near‐steady‐state infiltration rates. This infiltrometer is cheaper and lighter than current commercially available infiltrometers. It can be easily assembled with materials readily available in most hardware stores, and its user‐friendly datalogger does not require any programming knowledge. This infiltrometer is compatible with various ponding infiltration methods, and its generic design allows for modifications with locally available materials to meet diverse research needs.
Elephant pathway use in a human‐dominated landscape
Authors: Tiller Lydia , Humle Tatyana , Amin Rajan , Humphries Amie , Seaman Dave , Sitati Noah , Smith Robert
Published: July 2024

Habitat loss and fragmentation are two of the biggest threats facing wildlife today. Understanding the role of wildlife pathways in connecting resource areas is key for maintaining landscape connectivity, reducing the impacts of habitat loss and helping address human–wildlife conflict. In this study, we used sign surveys and camera trapping to understand the fine scale movement of elephants moving between a protected area and agricultural zone in the Masai Mara, Kenya. We used generalised linear models to determine factors driving high frequency of pathway use by elephants. Our results showed strong seasonal trends in pathway use, with peaks coinciding with the dry season. However, no correlations between rainfall and pathway use were found. Temporal patterns of pathway use indicate that elephants use risk avoidance strategies by moving between the two areas at times of low human disturbance. Spatial analysis revealed that the most frequently used pathways were closer to farms, saltlicks and forest and those that had a higher percentage of forest cover. Our models also showed a positive relationship between pathway use and the number of elephant crop raiding incidents, highlighting that pathways can play a role in human–elephant conflict. As habitat loss continues, pathways may become more important for linking resources. However, they are also likely to facilitate movement into farmland. The results from this study provide an opportunity for planned management activities to ensure connectivity and to mitigated conflict.
Three Topics on Democracy, Judicial Associations and Justice
Authors: Soares Manuel
Published: July 2024

Minister of Justice, this will most probably be the last public act in which I participate with Your Excellency as President of the Association of Portuguese Judges, after 3 years and 8 months of institutional relationship.
The Independence of Prosecutors: Cornerstone of the Rule of Law and Precondition for the Overall Independence of a Judicial System
Authors: Guglielmi Mariarosaria
Published: July 2024

It is clear that in the current crisis of the Rule of Law, that in recent years harvested a systematic weakening of the independence of the judiciary in Europe (and its sheer disappearance in Turkey, Hungary and Poland), what is endangered are the rights and freedoms of citizens.
The Limits of Judicial Irremovability from the Perspective of the Restoration of the Rule of Law: A View from Strasbourg
Authors: Sajó András
Published: July 2024

Judicial removal without cause is one of the most serious attempts to judicial independence. Understandably, in any decent rule of law system judicial irremovability became a fundamental tenet of the rule of law (hereinafter ROL).
Equational Anti-unification over Absorption Theories
Authors: Ayala-Rincón Mauricio , Cerna David M. , Barragán Andrés Felipe González , Kutsia Temur
Published: July 2024

Interest in anti-unification, the dual problem of unification, is rising due to various new applications. For example, anti-unification-based techniques have been used recently in software analysis and related areas such as clone detection and automatic program repair. While syntactic forms of anti-unification have found many interesting uses, some aspects of modern applications are more appropriately modeled by reasoning modulo an equational theory. Thus, extending existing anti-unification methods to deal with important equational theories is the natural step forward. This paper considers anti-unification modulo pure absorption theories, i.e., where some function symbols are associated with a special constant satisfying the axiom $$f(x,\varepsilon _{f}) \,\approx \, f(\varepsilon _{f},x) \,\approx \, \varepsilon _{f}$$

f

(
x
,

ε
f

)

≈

f

(

ε
f

,
x
)

≈

ε
f

. We provide a sound and complete rule-based algorithm for such theories. Furthermore, we show that anti-unification modulo absorption is infinitary. Despite this, our algorithm terminates and produces a finitary algorithmic representation of the minimal complete set of solutions.
Solving Quantitative Equations
Authors: Ehling Georg , Kutsia Temur
Published: July 2024

Quantitative equational reasoning provides a framework that extends equality to an abstract notion of proximity by endowing equations with an element of a quantale. In this paper, we discuss the unification problem for a special class of shallow subterm-collapse-free quantitative equational theories. We outline rule-based algorithms for solving such equational unification problems over generic as well as idempotent Lawvereian quantales and study their properties.
A Decision Method for First-Order Stream Logic
Authors: Ruess Harald
Published: July 2024

Our main result is a doubly exponential decision procedure for the first-order equality theory of streams with addition, convolution, and control-oriented stream operations. This stream logic is shown to be expressive for solving basic problems in stream calculus.
What Is Decidable in Separation Logic Beyond Progress, Connectivity and Establishment?
Authors: Bozec Tanguy , Peltier Nicolas , Petitjean Quentin , Sighireanu Mihaela
Published: July 2024

The predicate definitions in Separation Logic (SL) play an important role: they capture a large spectrum of unbounded heap shapes due to their inductiveness. This expressiveness power comes with a limitation: the entailment problem is undecidable if predicates have general inductive definitions (ID). Iosif et al. [8] proposed syntactic and semantic conditions, called PCE, on the ID of predicates to ensure the decidability of the entailment problem. We provide a (possibly nonterminating) algorithm to transform arbitrary ID into equivalent PCE definitions when possible. We show that the existence of an equivalent PCE definition for a given ID is undecidable, but we identify necessary conditions that are decidable. The algorithm has been implemented, and experimental results are reported on a benchmark, including significant examples from .
Ruffle&Riley: Insights from Designing and Evaluating a Large Language Model-Based Conversational Tutoring System
Authors: Schmucker Robin , Xia Meng , Azaria Amos , Mitchell Tom
Published: July 2024

Conversational tutoring systems (CTSs) offer learning experiences through interactions based on natural language. They are recognized for promoting cognitive engagement and improving learning outcomes, especially in reasoning tasks. Nonetheless, the cost associated with authoring CTS content is a major obstacle to widespread adoption and to research on effective instructional design. In this paper, we discuss and evaluate a novel type of CTS that leverages recent advances in large language models (LLMs) in two ways: First, the system enables AI-assisted content authoring by inducing an easily editable tutoring script automatically from a lesson text. Second, the system automates the script orchestration in a learning-by-teaching format via two LLM-based agents (Ruffle&Riley) acting as a student and a professor. The system allows for free-form conversations that follow the ITS-typical inner and outer loop structure. We evaluate Ruffle&Riley’s ability to support biology lessons in two between-subject online user studies ($$N = 200$$

N
=
200

) comparing the system to simpler QA chatbots and reading activity. Analyzing system usage patterns, pre/post-test scores and user experience surveys, we find that Ruffle&Riley users report high levels of engagement, understanding and perceive the offered support as helpful. Even though Ruffle&Riley users require more time to complete the activity, we did not find significant differences in short-term learning gains over the reading activity. Our system architecture and user study provide various insights for designers of future CTSs. We further open-source our system to support ongoing research on effective instructional design of LLM-based learning technologies.
Quantum Annular Homology and Bigger Burnside Categories
Authors: Morán Federico Cantero , García-Rodrigo Sergio , Silvero Marithania
Published: July 2024

As part of their construction of the Khovanov spectrum, Lawson, Lipshitz and Sarkar assigned to each cube in the Burnside category of finite sets and finite correspondences, a finite cellular spectrum. In this paper, we extend this assignment to cubes in Burnside categories of infinite sets. This is later applied to the work of Akhmechet, Krushkal and Willis on the quantum annular Khovanov spectrum with an action of a finite cyclic group: we obtain a quantum annular Khovanov spectrum with an action of the infinite cyclic group.
Effect of moisture content on the mechanical performance of 3D printed continuous reinforced two-matrix composite
Authors: Andreozzi Marina , Gentili Serena , Forcellese Pietro , Bellezze Tiziano , Corinaldesi Valeria , Luzi Francesca , Vita Alessio
Published: July 2024

Additive manufacturing, particularly Fused Filament Fabrication, has gained significant attraction in recent years. In order to increase the mechanical performances of several components, continuous reinforcements, such as carbon fibers, can be coextruded with a polymeric matrix.

The present study relies on a specific 3D printing process, called towpreg coextrusion, which exploits continuous carbon fibers covered with an epoxy resin and polyamide (PA) as the thermoplastic matrix, thus obtaining a 3D printed two-matrix composite. Since polyamide is a highly hygroscopic material, the impact of moisture content on the mechanical properties of 3D-printed continuous composites was investigated. Tensile and flexural specimens were manufactured and tested under both undried and dried conditions. Drying treatment was carried out at a temperature of 70 °C for 2 h in oven, with weight measurements before and after for quantifying weight loss and then the moisture removal. Additionally, through thermogravimetric analysis, the thermal stability of the material was assessed. It was observed that the drying process allows for a reduction of up to 0.56% by weight of moisture in the specimens. Thus, the drying process led to an improvement in the mechanical properties of the material. Specifically, the tests reveal a 15% increase in tensile strength and an 11.5% increase in flexural strength following the drying process, reaching values of 392.78 MPa and 151.06 MPa, respectively. Similarly, an increase in the tensile and flexural moduli was noted in the treated specimens. Finally, fractured samples underwent optical and scanning electron microscopy analysis, through which different fracture mechanisms of the material and the presence of macrovoids and microvoids attributable to the 3D printing process were observed. Knowledge of deposition defects represents an important starting point for the improvement of the process and the mechanical properties obtained to date. This research provides valuable insights into optimizing 3D-printed continuous composites, emphasizing the importance of moisture control for superior mechanical performance in industrial applications.
Globally solvable time-periodic evolution equations in Gelfand–Shilov classes
Authors: de Ávila Silva Fernando , Cappiello Marco
Published: July 2024

In this paper we consider a class of evolution operators with coefficients depending on time and space variables $$(t,x) \in {\mathbb {T}}\times {\mathbb {R}}^n$$

(
t
,
x
)

∈
T
×

R

n

, where $${\mathbb {T}}$$
T
is the one-dimensional torus, and prove necessary and sufficient conditions for their global solvability in (time-periodic) Gelfand–Shilov spaces. The argument of the proof is based on a characterization of these spaces in terms of the eigenfunction expansions given by a fixed self-adjoint, globally elliptic differential operator on $${\mathbb {R}}^n$$

R

n

.
Electrospun fibrillary scaffold for electrochemical cell biomarkers detection
Authors: Beregoi Mihaela , Oprea Daniela , Bunea Mihaela Cristina , Enculescu Monica , Enache Teodor Adrian
Published: July 2024

A novel scaffold for in situ electrochemical detection of cell biomarkers was developed using electrospun nanofibers and commercial adhesive polymeric membranes. The electrochemical sensing of cell biomarkers requires the cultivation of the cells on/near the (bio)sensor surface in a manner to preserve an appropriate electroactive available surface and to avoid the surface passivation and sensor damage. This can be achieved by employing biocompatible nanofiber meshes that allow the cells to have a normal behavior and do not alter the electrochemical detection. For a better mechanical stability and ease of handling, nylon 6/6 nanofibers were collected on commercial polymeric membranes, at an optimal fiber density, obtaining a double-layered platform. To demonstrate the functionality of the fabricated scaffold, the screening of cellular stress has been achieved integrating melanoma B16-F10 cells and the (bio)sensor components on the transducer whereas the melanin exocytosis was successfully quantified using a commercial electrode. Either directly on the surface of the (bio)sensor or spatially detached from it, the integration of cell cultures in biosensing platforms based on electrospun nanofibers represents a powerful bioanalytical tool able to provide real-time information about the biomarker release, enzyme activity or inhibition, and monitoring of various cellular events.

Graphical Abstract