bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suicide mortality rates in Japan before and beyond the COVID‐19 pandemic era
Authors: Okada Motohiro , Matsumoto Ryusuke , Motomura Eishi
Published: April 2024

Statistical analyses from Japan reported increasing suicides in 2020, first in the world, proving the severity of the public health crisis during the COVID‐19 pandemic; however, so far, international suicides have not been shown to be objectively increasing at population level. Followed studies reported the existence of a substantial heterogeneity of suicides among subgroups and time‐lag impacts. Against public health crisis in Japan, policymakers, psychiatrists and public health personnel should prioritize improving suicide prevention programs following evidence‐based policymaking. Understanding how/what factors relate to the COVID‐19 pandemic and what other factors have shaped the increasing suicide numbers since 2020 through objectively well‐controlled/fine‐grained analyses of high‐quality longitudinal/cross‐sectional data at the individual, regional, and national levels is important for identifying the reasons for the recent trend. For this purpose, this study examined suicide statistics, statistical analysis methods, and their interpretations. Recent analyses suggest an increased suicide risk among females <50 years and males <30 years in 2020–2022. Notably, time‐series analyses revealed that adolescent suicides began increasing before the pandemic, while working‐age female suicides sharply increased synchronously with the pandemic outbreak. Causality analyses suggest that social issues facing Japan and recent global psychosocial and socioeconomic transformations are risk factors for suicide in high‐risk groups. Finally, this report demonstrates the importance of providing appropriate support based on an objective understanding of individuals who are at risk for suicide, without being bound by traditional established knowledges.
Pneumatic spray delivery‐based fixed spray system configuration optimization for efficient agrochemical application in modern vineyards
Authors: Bhalekar Dattatray G , Sahni Ramesh K , Schrader M Jacob , Khot Lav R
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The hydraulic spray delivery (HSD)‐based solid set canopy delivery system (SSCDS) emitter configuration has been optimized for agrochemical applications in vertical shoot position (VSP) vineyards. It uses cost‐prohibitive emitters, and their placement restricts the mechanical pruning activities. Therefore, this study focused on optimizing the spray performance of a pneumatic spray delivery (PSD)‐based SSCDS variant that addresses the earlier issues. Three PSD‐SSCDS emitter configurations (C1–C3) were designed using modified low‐cost emitters (E1: modified flat fan, E2: 90° modular flat fan) for agrochemical applications in VSP vineyards. C1 had an E1 installed on trellis posts at 1.67 m above ground level. C2 had a pair of E2 installed per vine at 0.3 m below the cordon, while C3 combined the emitter placement of C1 and C2. The spray deposition (ng cm−2) and coverage (%) were quantified (mean ± standard error) using mylar cards and water‐sensitive paper samplers placed within the canopy, respectively.

RESULTS

Spray deposition for C1, C2, and C3 was 301.12 ± 63.30, 347.9 ± 66.29, and 837.6 ± 92.53 ng cm−2, respectively. Whereas spray coverage for corresponding configurations was 18.02 ± 2.63, 8.98 ± 1.84, and 28.84 ± 2.46%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, configuration C3 provided significantly higher spray deposition and coverage than C1 and C2. Substantially reduced system installation cost and emitter density per hectare with improved spray performance were achieved by C3 compared to earlier optimized HSD‐SSCDS configuration in the VSP vineyards. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
First use of unmanned aerial vehicles to monitor Halyomorpha halys and recognize it using artificial intelligence
Authors: Giannetti Daniele , Patelli Niccolò , Palazzetti Lorenzo , Betti Sorbelli Francesco , Pinotti Cristina M. , Maistrello Lara
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Halyomorpha halys is one of the most damaging invasive agricultural pests in North America and southern Europe. It is commonly monitored using pheromone traps, which are not very effective because few bugs are caught and some escape and/or remain outside the trap on surrounding plants where they feed, increasing the damage. Other monitoring techniques are based on visual sampling, sweep‐netting and tree‐beating. However, all these methods require several hours of human labor and are difficult to apply to large areas. The aim of this work is to develop an automated monitoring system that integrates image acquisition through the use of drones with H. halys detection through the use of artificial intelligence (AI).

RESULTS

The study results allowed the development of an automated flight protocol using a mobile app to capture high‐resolution images. The drone caused only low levels of disturbance in both adult and intermediate instars, inducing freezing behavior in adults. Each of the AI models used achieved very good performance, with a detection accuracy of up to 97% and recall of up to 87% for the X‐TL model.

CONCLUSION

The first application of this novel monitoring system demonstrated the potential of drones and AI to detect and quantify the presence of H. halys. The ability to capture high‐altitude, high‐resolution images makes this method potentially suitable for use with a range of crops and pests. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Understanding arrival contexts of local refugee reception using a ‘phase space’ perspective
Authors: Enßle‐Reinhardt Friederike , Glorius Birgit , Schneider Hanne
Published: April 2024

Migration is an inherently spatial phenomenon as it depicts the processes and effects of humans' movement from one place to another. Recent debates in geographical migration research highlight the need to adequately understand how the distinct nature of space and place shape migration and arrival processes. Taking up this call, this contribution proposes to bring together more‐than‐relational approaches to space in geography and the ‘local turn’ in research on migration and integration. Drawing on the empirical example of refugee reception and integration in the city of Rostock in Germany, the contribution explores how space, it's persisting and changing elements, impacts migration flows and constrains or supports migrants' arrival processes. The analysis works along three aspects of more‐than‐relational approaches to space, namely the role of persistent spatial aspects, such as the topography or national borders, and their interplay with relational space; the impact of spatially confined administrative units and regional embeddedness; and the temporal depth of space. The contribution closes by proposing two points how a more‐than‐relational approach can enhance the conceptualisation of space in geographical migration studies: (1) the mutual constitution of relational and non‐relational aspects of space into a specific space shaping migration flows through their interplay, and (2) the openness of a ‘phase space’ approach towards future developments admitting that the inner logic of a place can develop and change.
Corrosion Study of Picosecond‐Laser Structured and Anodized Ti6Al4V for Bone Screws
Authors: Knapic Dominik , Mardare Andrei Ionut , Voss Heike , Bonse Jörn , Hassel Achim Walter
Published: April 2024

A corrosion study is performed on six variations of titanium grade 5 (Ti6Al4V) samples. Samples are prepared in different conditions by variation of preanodization, postanodization, and picosecond‐laser (ps‐laser) surface treatment, while polished and anodized samples serve as reference. Microcones and nanosized periodic surface features are successfully produced on Ti6Al4V samples. The morphology and topography of the structures are visualized by scanning electron microscopy and white light interference microscopy. Furthermore, the relative electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) is determined for the ps‐laser‐treated samples. It is determined that the preanodized and laser‐treated sample has 3.5 times larger ECSA than a polished sample, and that the laser‐treated sample has 4.1 times larger area. Moreover, Tafel analysis is performed to determine the corrosion properties of the samples. It is shown that the corrosion resistance improves for both laser‐structured samples after the anodization. To further study the surface of the samples, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements are conducted. The study indicates that the ps‐laser‐treated and anodized Ti6Al4V is suitable to be used for the fabrication of bone screws and plates due to its improved corrosion resistance as compared to nonanodized samples.
Effect of Wet Etching on AlGaN‐Based Ultraviolet‐B Laser Diodes Grown on Wet‐Etched Periodic AlN Nanopillars
Authors: Imoto Yoshinori , Hasegawa Ryota , Yabutani Ayumu , Kondo Ryosuke , Nishibayashi Toma , Yamada Ryoya , Matsubara Eri , Iwayama Sho , Takeuchi Tetsuya , Kamiyama Satoshi , Miyake Hideto , Iwaya Motoaki
Published: April 2024

The effect of wet etching on the characteristics of ultraviolet‐B (UV‐B) lasers fabricated on AlGaN templates grown as crystals or wet‐etched AlN nanopillars is compared in detail. Specifically, a tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH) solution is used to form templates with AlN nanopillars of different diameters, followed by determining the dependence of the dislocation density in AlGaN crystals grown on the templates, the threshold power density (Pth) of an optically pumped UV‐B laser, and the threshold current density (Jth) of a UV‐B laser diode (LD) on the extent of etching. It is observed that the pillar diameter decreases almost linearly as the etching time with the TMAH solution increases. The dislocation density of AlGaN crystals grown on AlGaN templates is almost independent of the etching time. Meanwhile, Pth of the optically pumped UV‐B laser is almost halved upon etching with TMAH. Finally, the Jth of the UV‐B LD tends to decrease by 10%–20% upon etching. The optical gain is estimated by optical excitation; wet etching of AlN nanopillars with TMAH solution results in a larger optical gain at the same excitation intensity, indicating that nonradiative recombination centers, such as point defects, are reduced.
Synergy detection: A practical guide to statistical assessment of potential drug combinations
Authors: Makariadou Elli , Wang Xuechen , Hein Nicholas , Deresa Negera W. , Mutambanengwe Kathy , Verbist Bie , Thas Olivier
Published: April 2024

Combination treatments have been of increasing importance in drug development across therapeutic areas to improve treatment response, minimize the development of resistance, and/or minimize adverse events. Pre‐clinical in‐vitro combination experiments aim to explore the potential of such drug combinations during drug discovery by comparing the observed effect of the combination with the expected treatment effect under the assumption of no interaction (i.e., null model). This tutorial will address important design aspects of such experiments to allow proper statistical evaluation. Additionally, it will highlight the Biochemically Intuitive Generalized Loewe methodology (BIGL R package available on CRAN) to statistically detect deviations from the expectation under different null models. A clear advantage of the methodology is the quantification of the effect sizes, together with confidence interval while controlling the directional false coverage rate. Finally, a case study will showcase the workflow in analyzing combination experiments.
Betulinic acid ameliorates cast‐immobilized skeletal muscle atrophy but not denervation‐induced skeletal muscle atrophy
Authors: Enoki Yuki , Kanezaki Yuki , Takahata Isamu , Taguchi Kazuaki , Matsumoto Kazuaki
Published: April 2024

Background

Terpenoids have gained attention as therapeutic agents for skeletal muscle atrophy owing to their various physiological activities. In this study, we screened four terpenoids for their therapeutic potential against muscle atrophy in cultured cells and evaluated the effectiveness of betulinic acid in two disuse muscle atrophy models.

Methods

C2C12 cells were used as the skeletal muscle model in cell culture experiments. Betulinic acid (100 mg/kg, twice daily) was administered to two different mouse models of muscle atrophy (established using the sciatic denervation and casting methods) for 7 days.

Results

In myotube experiments, the mRNA expression of atrogin‐1 and myostatin was significantly suppressed by betulinic and ursolic acids (P < 0.05). In the differentiation phase of C2C12 myotubes, the mRNA expression levels of myoD and myogenin were significantly increased by betulinic acid (P < 0.05). In addition, apelin and irisin were also significantly increased by betulinic acid (P < 0.05 and 0.01, respectively). Consequently, betulinic acid was administered to the aforementioned muscle atrophy models. Betulinic acid did not inhibit the decrease in skeletal muscle weight observed in the denervation model. However, it significantly inhibited the decrease in tibialis anterior (TA) and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) weights and grip strength observed in the cast‐immobilized skeletal muscle atrophy model (TA: Cast + Veh vs. Cast + Bet = 42.6 ± 1.0 vs. 46.0 ± 0.8 mg, P < 0.01; EDL: Cast + Veh vs. Cast + Bet = 9.0 ± 0.4 vs. 11.3 ± 0.5 mg, P < 0.01; grip strength: Cast + Veh vs. Cast + Bet = 222 ± 4.8 vs. 245 ± 3.6 g, P < 0.05). In addition, betulinic acid administration partially inhibited the decrease in skeletal muscle cross‐sectional area.

Conclusions

Betulinic acid alleviated muscle atrophy in the cast model of muscle atrophy and has therapeutic potential for the treatment of immobilized disuse skeletal muscle atrophy.
LMI‐based neural observer for state and nonlinear function estimation
Authors: Jeon Woongsun , Chakrabarty Ankush , Zemouche Ali , Rajamani Rajesh
Published: April 2024

This article develops a neuro‐adaptive observer for state and nonlinear function estimation in systems with partially modeled process dynamics. The developed adaptive observer is shown to provide exponentially stable estimation errors in which both states and nonlinear functions converge to their true values. When the neural approximator has an approximation error with respect to the true nonlinear function, the observer can be used to provide an bound on the estimation error. The article does not require assumptions on the process dynamics or output equation being linear functions of neural network weights and instead assumes a reasonable affine parameter dependence in the process dynamics. A convex problem is formulated and an equivalent polytopic observer design method is developed. Finally, a hybrid estimation system that switches between a neuro‐adaptive observer for system identification and a regular nonlinear observer for state estimation is proposed. The switched operation enables parameter estimation updates whenever adequate measurements are available. The performance of the developed adaptive observer is shown through simulations for a Van der Pol oscillator and a single link robot. In the application, no manual tuning of adaptation gains is needed and estimates of both the states and the nonlinear functions converge successfully.
Expert‐in‐the‐loop design of integral nuclear data experiments
Authors: Michaud Isaac , Grosskopf Michael , Hutchinson Jesson , Vander Wiel Scott
Published: April 2024

Nuclear data are fundamental inputs to radiation transport codes used for reactor design and criticality safety. The design of experiments to reduce nuclear data uncertainty has been a challenge for many years, but advances in the sensitivity calculations of radiation transport codes within the last two decades have made optimal experimental design possible. The design of integral nuclear experiments poses numerous challenges not emphasized in classical optimal design, in particular, constrained design spaces (in both a statistical and engineering sense), severely under‐determined systems, and optimality uncertainty. We present a design pipeline to optimize critical experiments that uses constrained Bayesian optimization within an iterative expert‐in‐the‐loop framework. We show a successfully completed experiment campaign designed with this framework that involved two critical configurations and multiple measurements that targeted compensating errors in 239Pu nuclear data.
Navigating student uncertainty for productive struggle: Establishing the importance for and distinguishing types, sources, and desirability of scientific uncertainties
Authors: Chen Ying‐Chih , Jordan Michelle , Park Jongchan , Starrett Emily
Published: April 2024

An essential aspect of scientific practice involves grappling with the generation of predictions, representations, interpretations, investigations, and communications related to scientific phenomena, all of which are inherently permeated with uncertainty. Transferring this practice from expert settings to the classroom is invaluable yet challenging. Teachers often perceive struggles as incidental, negative, and uncomfortable, assuming they stem from students' deficiencies in knowledge or understanding, which they feel compelled to promptly address to progress. While some empirical research has explored the role of scientific uncertainties in driving productive student struggle, few studies have explicitly examined or provided a framework to unpack scientific uncertainty as it manifests in the classroom, including the sources that lead to student struggle and how teachers can manage it effectively. In this position paper, we elucidate the importance of incorporating scientific uncertainties as pedagogical resources to foster student struggles through uncertainty from three perspectives: scientific literacy, student agency, and coherent trajectories of sensemaking. To develop a theoretical framework, we consider scientific uncertainty as a resource for productive struggle in the sensemaking process. We delve into two types (e.g., conceptual, epistemic), four sources (e.g., insufficiency, ambiguity, incoherence, conflict), and three desirability considerations (e.g., relevance, timing, complexity) of scientific uncertainties in student struggles to provide a theoretical foundation for understanding what students struggle with, why they struggle, and how scientific uncertainties can be effectively managed by teachers. With this framework, researchers and teachers can examine the (mis)alignments between uncertainty‐in‐design, uncertainty‐in‐practice, and uncertainty‐in‐reflection.
Does the closure of polluting enterprises improve rural livelihoods? Evidence from rural China
Authors: Deng Xiaoshang , Niu Kunyu , Xu Xiangbo , Li Chang , Zhang Linxiu
Published: April 2024

In response to an increasingly dire pollution scenario, the Chinese government initiated the largest and most extensive environmental inspection campaign in history starting in 2016. Numerous polluting enterprises were closed due to environmental concerns in the rural areas. Drawing on two‐period panel data from the China Rural Development Survey, this study revealed the inherent mechanism of the polluting enterprises closure on local rural livelihoods using the difference‐in‐differences method and structural equation model, with reference to the sustainable livelihood framework. Results showed that shuttering polluting enterprises enhanced rural households' livelihood capital, notably in human, natural, and physical aspects, and promoted labor migration. Additional heterogeneous analysis revealed that the enhancements were notably more pronounced in Southern China and among affluent demographics. Based on the findings, we suggested the local government should support the development of sustainable agriculture and green industries and pay more attention to vulnerable populations when making policy decisions. The use of mandatory directives, such as shutting down polluting enterprises, is a common strategy in developing countries. This study presents an analytical framework for understanding the impact of environmental governance on the livelihoods of rural households in developing countries, contributing to a better balance between rural environmental management and livelihood improvement in these regions.
Importance of women empowerment for eco‐efficiency of small farms in the context of other social factors: Building sustainable agriculture in Central and Eastern European countries
Authors: Czyżewski Bazyli , Prędki Artur , Brelik Agnieszka
Published: April 2024

It is widely assumed that women's empowerment plays a key role in achieving sustainability in agriculture. However, there is a lack of empirical analysis to support this claim and operationalise the concept of women's empowerment. Furthermore, it has not been formally demonstrated through which farming practices women's empowerment can contribute to the development of sustainable agriculture, or whether gender empowerment is indeed meaningful compared with other well‐documented social drivers. We calculated frontier eco‐efficiency, taking into account specific environmental pressures (i.e., soil biodiversity loss) and public goods (i.e., plant diversity) as desirable outputs in small crop farms, which dominate in Central and Eastern European countries (Poland, Romania, Serbia and Moldova), based on a survey conducted in a sample of 1630 units. We estimated the impact of different levels of women's and men's empowerment on eco‐efficiency in the context of other time‐invariant socio‐economic factors (i.e., succession, age, education and specialisation) in a two‐stage double‐bootstrapped Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) approach. A set of four levels of gender empowerment was defined, taking into account social participation and decision‐making power. We then assessed the degree of input and output inefficiency associated with each level of gender empowerment. The general conclusion is that lower levels of women's empowerment have a negative impact on eco‐efficiency. Therefore, the issue of gender empowerment, not only in terms of equality, decision‐making and access to resources, but also in terms of social participation, should be emphasised in sustainable agriculture policies, on a par with the issue of ageing farmers and farm succession.
One‐pot Expedient Green Synthesis of N‐benzhydrylpyridine‐2‐amines Using Gooseberry Amla Fruit Extract (GAFE): A Naturally Occurring Organocatalyst
Authors: Nadoni Vishwa B. , Kamble Ravindra R. , Metre Tukaram V. , Bheemayya Lokesh , Nayak Manojna R.
Published: April 2024

One‐pot synthesis of N‐benzhydrylpyridine‐2‐amines employing Gooseberry amla (Phyllanthus emblica) fruit extract (GAFE) as an organoacid catalyst, was executed in the current investigation with the primary emphasis on green chemistry. The spectrum displays of these compounds were analyzed using FT‐IR, 1H and 13C NMR, and LC‐MS. For substantial ecological assurance, we adopted green chemistry methodologies to lessen the risk of exposure to hazardous chemical materials amid the synthesis of diverse heterocyclic compounds. Moreover, these α‐branched amines are synthesized in the greener and milder way with the use of a natural organoacid with more yields compared with the other chemical methods. This innovative approach has a lot to offer in terms of its rapid reaction time frames, clear reaction profiles, benign reaction conditions, absence of toxic catalysts and risky solvents, accessibility of the work‐up process, and greater yield.
Synthetic Cells from Droplet‐Based Microfluidics for Biosensing and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Ngocho Kleins , Yang Xilei , Wang Zefeng , Hu Cunjie , Yang Xiaohai , Shi Hui , Wang Kemin , Liu Jianbo
Published: April 2024

Synthetic cells function as biological mimics of natural cells by mimicking salient features of cells such as metabolism, response to stimuli, gene expression, direct metabolism, and high stability. Droplet‐based microfluidic technology presents the opportunity for encapsulating biological functional components in uni‐lamellar liposome or polymer droplets. Verified by its success in the fabrication of synthetic cells, microfluidic technology is widely replacing conventional labor‐intensive, expensive, and sophisticated techniques justified by its ability to miniaturize and perform batch production operations. In this review, an overview of recent research on the preparation of synthetic cells through droplet‐based microfluidics is provided. Different synthetic cells including lipid vesicles (liposome), polymer vesicles (polymersome), coacervate microdroplets, and colloidosomes, are systematically discussed. Efforts are then made to discuss the design of a variety of microfluidic chips for synthetic cell preparation since the combination of microfluidics with bottom–up synthetic biology allows for reproductive and tunable construction of batches of synthetic cell models from simple structures to higher hierarchical structures. The recent advances aimed at exploiting them in biosensors and other biomedical applications are then discussed. Finally, some perspectives on the challenges and future developments of synthetic cell research with microfluidics for biomimetic science and biomedical applications are provided.
Environmentally Robust Triboelectric Tire Monitoring System for Self‐Powered Driving Information Recognition via Hybrid Deep Learning in Time‐Frequency Representation
Authors: Kim BaekGyu , Song Jin Yeong , Kim Do Young , Cho Min Woo , Park Ji Gyo , Choi Dongwhi , Lee Chengkuo , Park Sang Min
Published: April 2024

Developing a robust artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) system with a self‐powered triboelectric sensor for harsh environment is challenging because environmental fluctuations are reflected in triboelectric signals. This study presents an environmentally robust triboelectric tire monitoring system with deep learning to capture driving information in the triboelectric signals generated from tire‐road friction. The optimization of the process and structure of a laser‐induced graphene (LIG) electrode layer in the triboelectric tire is conducted, enabling the tire to detect universal driving information for vehicles/robotic mobility, including rotation speeds of 200–2000 rpm and contact fractions of line. Employing a hybrid model combining short‐term Fourier transform with a convolution neural network‐long short‐term memory, the LIG‐based triboelectric tire monitoring (LTTM) system decouples the driving information, such as traffic lines and road states, from varied environmental conditions of humidity (10%–90%) and temperatures (50–70 °C). The real‐time line and road state recognition of the LTTM system is confirmed on a mobile platform across diverse environmental conditions, including fog, dampness, intense sunlight, and heat shimmer. This work provides an environmentally robust monitoring AIoT system by introducing a self‐powered triboelectric sensor and hybrid deep learning for smart mobility.
Amorphous/Crystalline Phases Mixed Nanosheets Array Rich in Oxygen Vacancies Boost Oxygen Evolution Reaction of Spinel Oxides in Alkaline Media
Authors: Liu Ying , Xiao Liyang , Tan Haiwen , Zhang Jingtong , Dong Cunku , Liu Hui , Du Xiwen , Yang Jing
Published: April 2024

As promising oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts, spinel‐type oxides face the bottleneck of weak adsorption for oxygen‐containing intermediates, so it is challenging to make a further breakthrough in remarkably lowering the OER overpotential. In this study, a novel strategy is proposed to substantially enhance the OER activity of spinel oxides based on amorphous/crystalline phases mixed spinel FeNi2O4 nanosheets array, enriched with oxygen vacancies, in situ grown on a nickel foam (NF). This unique architecture is achieved through a one‐step millisecond laser direct writing method. The presence of amorphous phases with abundant oxygen vacancies significantly enhances the adsorption of oxygen‐containing intermediates and changes the rate‐determining step from OH*→O* to O*→OOH*, which greatly reduces the thermodynamic energy barrier. Moreover, the crystalline phase interweaving with amorphous domains serves as a conductive shortcut to facilitate rapid electron transfer from active sites in the amorphous domain to NF, guaranteeing fast OER kinetics. Such an anodic electrode exhibits a nearly ten fold enhancement in OER intrinsic activity compared to the pristine counterpart. Remarkably, it demonstrates record‐low overpotentials of 246 and 315 mV at 50 and 500 mA cm−2 in 1 m KOH with superior long‐term stability, outperforming other NiFe‐based spinel oxides catalysts.
Pulsed‐Laser‐Driven CO2 Reduction Reaction for the Control of the Photoluminescence Quantum Yield of Organometallic Gold Nanocomposites
Authors: Tahir  , Concas Guilherme C. , Gisbert Mariana , Cremona Marco , Lazaro Fernando , Maia da Costa Marcelo Eduardo H. , De Barros Suellen D. T. , Aucélio Ricardo Q. , Pierre Tatiana Saint , Godoy José Marcus , Mendes Diogo , Mariotto Gino , Daldosso Nicola , Enrichi Francesco , Cuin Alexandre , Ferreira Aldebarã F. , de Azevedo Walter M. , Perez Geronimo , SantAnna Celso , Archanjo Braulio Soares , Fonseca Yordy E. Licea , Rossi Andre L. , Deepak Francis L. , Khan Rajwali , Zaman Quaid , Reichenberger Sven , Fromme Theo , Margheri Giancarlo , Sabino José R. , Fibbi Gabriella , Del Rosso Mario , Chillà Anastasia , Margheri Francesca , Laurenzana Anna , Del Rosso Tommaso
Published: April 2024

Over the last decade, the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) has been increasingly exploited for the synthesis of high‐value raw materials in gaseous or liquid form, although no examples of CO2 fixation in nanoparticle systems have been demonstrated. Herein, CO2 fixation into solid nanomaterials by laser synthesis and processing of gold colloids in water, traditionally considered a green approach leading to ligand‐free nanoparticles without the formation of by‐products, is reported. If carbon monoxide‐rich gold nanoparticles are observable even after synthesis in deionized water, the presence of CO2 derivatives in alkaline water environment leads to C2 and C3 coupling with the production of carboxylic acids as a typical CO2RR fingerprint. While laser processing of preformed gold colloids is selective for C2 coupling, both C2 and C3 coupling to lactic acid are observed during pulsed laser ablation of a gold target. In the latter case, it is demonstrated that it is possible to synthesize photoluminescent organometallic nanocomposites in the blue spectral region with a quantum yield of about 20% under adequate experimental conditions. In this research, new pathways are offered to be explored in energetics, photonics, catalysis, and synthesis at the nanoscale.
Single Side‐Chain‐Modulatory of Hemicyanine for Optimized Fluorescence and Photoacoustic Dual‐Modality Imaging of H2S In Vivo
Authors: Xu Juntao , Li Xipeng , Luo Zhiheng , Li Jiajun , Yang Sihua , Zhang Tao
Published: April 2024

Near‐infrared fluorescence (NIRF)/photoacoustic (PA) dual‐modality imaging integrated high‐sensitivity fluorescence imaging with deep‐penetration PA imaging has been recognized as a reliable tool for disease detection and diagnosis. However, it remains an immense challenge for a molecule probe to achieve the optimal NIRF and PA imaging by adjusting the energy allocation between radiative transition and nonradiative transition. Herein, a simple but effective strategy is reported to engineer a NIRF/PA dual‐modality probe (Cl‐HDN3) based on the near‐infrared hemicyanine scaffold to optimize the energy allocation between radiative and nonradiative transition. Upon activation by H2S, the Cl‐HDN3 shows a 3.6‐fold enhancement in the PA signal and a 4.3‐fold enhancement in the fluorescence signal. To achieve the sensitive and selective detection of H2S in vivo, the Cl‐HDN3 is encapsulated within an amphiphilic lipid (DSPE‐PEG2000) to form the Cl‐HDN3‐LP, which can successfully map the changes of H2S in a tumor‐bearing mouse model with the NIRF/PA dual‐modality imaging. This work presents a promising strategy for optimizing fluorescence and PA effects in a molecule probe, which may be extended to the NIRF/PA dual‐modality imaging of other disease‐relevant biomarkers.
Unraveling Precise Locations of Indium Atoms in g‐C3N4 for Ameliorating Hydrogen Peroxide Piezo‐Photogeneration
Authors: Anh Nguyen Hoai , Nguyen Duc‐Viet , Luu Tuyen Anh , Phan Pham Duc Minh , Toan Huynh Phuoc , Ly Pho Phuong , Hung Nguyen Quang , Nguyen Ngoc Linh , Hur Seung Hyun , Hue Pham Thi , Hue Nguyen Thi Ngoc , Pham Minh‐Thuan , Ung Thuy Dieu Thi , Bich Do Danh , Dao Vinh‐Ai , Doan Huan V. , Isaacs Mark , Nguyen Minh Chien , Yu Woo Jong , Lee Yen‐Yi , Chang‐Chien Guo‐Ping , Vuong Hoai‐Thanh
Published: April 2024

Increasing active sites in catalysts is of utmost importance for catalytic processes. In this regime, single‐atom dispersing on graphitic carbon nitrides (g‐C3N4) to produce fine chemicals, such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), is of current interest due to not only enhancing catalytic performance but also reducing the loading of necessary metals. Herein, g‐C3N4 is engineered by atomically dispersing aluminum (Al) or indium (In) sites to provide catalytic active centers via one‐step thermal shock polymerization. The addition of Al and In sites can accelerate the catalytic efficacy owing to the Lewis acid–base interactions between these metals and oxygen (O2). Under catalytic conditions, the formation of oxygenic radicals will strongly be associated with the enhanced formation of H2O2, confirmed by in situ electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. Furthermore, the empirical analyses from positron annihilation spectroscopy show that In atoms will occupy the near positions of carbon vacancies (VC) to form NVC@InO bonds. This replacement will produce the highest formation energy based on the density functional theory calculations, improving the stability of atom‐dispersive materials. Therefore, via the combination of experimental and theoretical proofs, this study suggests the exact location of In atoms in g‐C3N4 structures, which can help boost the catalytic production of H2O2.
On the Impact of Bimolecular Recombination on Time‐Delayed Collection Field Measurements and How to Minimize Its Effect
Authors: Gerber Benno , Tokmoldin Nurlan , Sandberg Oskar J. , Sağlamkaya Elifnaz , Sun Bowen , Shoaee Safa , Neher Dieter
Published: April 2024

The time‐delayed collection field (TDCF) technique is a popular method to quantify the field and temperature dependences of free charge generation in organic solar cells. Because the method relies on the extraction of photogenerated charge carriers, bimolecular recombination not only between the photogenerated carriers but also between the photogenerated and dark‐injected carriers affects its accuracy, particularly at forward bias. In this work, drift–diffusion simulations are employed to quantify the recombination losses in conventional and modified TDCF measurements, where the latter technique intends to reduce the impact of dark injection. It is shown that parameters such as the generation profile, carrier mobilities, and effective density of states affect the recombination losses in both measurements. Importantly, modified TDCF enables to reduce the recombination losses at forward bias, especially beyond the open‐circuit voltage. However, conventional TDCF is preferable for studies at reverse bias due to a better depletion of the active layer prior to the emergence of the photogenerated carriers. Measurements on a ZR1:Y6 blend with fast recombination are in good agreement with the simulation results. This work shows that artifacts in TDCF measurements related to non‐geminate recombination can be accounted for and minimized through an informed choice of the experimental conditions.
Surface Functionality through Periodical Patterning on Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Shirvanimoghaddam Kamyar , Ozen Ilhan , Wu Peng , Jafarzadeh Shima , Yadav Ram , Naebe Minoo
Published: April 2024

From their foundational role in electronics to their pivotal contributions in the structural domain, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) exemplify a revolutionary nanomaterial with broad applications. The chemical inertness of the CNT surface is a primary limitation that restricts the full utilization of CNTs for mass use in several applications. Herein, works performed on the development of surface‐modified CNTs known as periodically patterned structures are focused. Different structures including shish kebab, nanofiber, nanoflower, and cheetah skin CNT have been studied. Periodic patterning on CNTs offers a chance to improve the nanotube's surface properties and roughness, facilitating better interaction with a matrix. Additionally, the fully controllable processing procedure opens significant opportunities for additional modification and attachment of phases onto specific areas of periodically patterned CNTs. The periodic patterning aspect holds promise for the mass production of surface‐modified CNTs, enhancing their surface multifunctionality. This advancement has the potential to cater to a diverse array of applications, offering improved surface functionality in a mass‐production setting.
Integrated Copper Nanomaterials‐Decorated Microsphere Photothermal Platform for Comprehensive Melanoma Treatment
Authors: Zhang Xinyi , Zhang Mengya , Cui Hengqing , Zhang Tinglin , Zhang Zhuanzhuan , Li Jingzhu , Zhou Jingsheng , Jiang Xianghe , Liu Chenchen , Gao Jie
Published: April 2024

Patients who undergo resection for melanoma face challenges, such as delayed healing and radiation dermatitis. Moreover, incomplete tumor resection is a key factor contributing to poor prognosis and increased recurrence rates. However, a therapeutic platform that can effectively prevent tumor recurrence and promote wound healing remains a challenge. Hence, a pioneering approach is presented using melanoma‐derived cancer cell membrane (CM) as a tumor antigen to encapsulate copper (Cu)‐based metal‐organic framework (MOF) nanomaterials to fabricate nanomaterials termed MOF@CM. Then MOF@CM is adsorbed onto polydopamine (PDA)‐modified poly lactic‐co‐glycolic acid (PLGA) porous microspheres (PLGA/PDA) to develop the copper nanomaterials‐decorated microspheres termed PLGA/PDA‐CCM (PLGA/PDA loaded with CM‐coated MOF). It exerts homologous tumor targeting and photothermal effects, inducing immunogenic cell death. Simultaneously, the sustained release of MOF@CM shows enhanced antigen presentation in dendritic cells (DCs) with the help of CpG, and induces DC maturation and activated immune responses, acting as an effective vaccine to prevent tumor recurrence. The platform harnesses the combined advantages of the local thermal effect and the presence of a Cu‐based MOF, which endow antibacterial properties and stimulate angiogenesis, thereby facilitating wound healing and mitigating radiation dermatitis. This integrated microsphere treatment platform represents a promising strategy for addressing melanoma.
Comparing drug testing methods in the trucking industry: The drug and alcohol clearinghouse versus hair testing
Authors: Voss M. Douglas , Cangelosi Joseph D. , Li Ming
Published: April 2024

The Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991 mandated urine drug testing for U.S. truck drivers but some trucking companies prefer hair testing because it has a longer look back period and better detects lifestyle drug users. Previous research established that 276,500 current truck drivers may be disqualified if they submitted to hair drug tests instead of federally accepted urinalysis. This research compares hair and urine drug test results provided by eight U.S. trucking companies who are members of the alliance for driver safety and security (i.e., the trucking alliance) with urine test results drawn from the federal drug and alcohol clearinghouse to determine the differences in hair versus urine positivity rates and drugs detected. Results indicate that hair testing has a 6.00% positivity rate, 4.01% higher than urine. If this difference were generalized to the drivers who submitted urine tests to the drug and alcohol clearinghouse, hair testing would have likely disqualified 57,337 additional drivers in 2020. Results further indicate urine testing is better able to detect marijuana while hair testing is superior in detecting cocaine and opioids. This implies federal agencies should consider allowing hair test results to be submitted to the drug and alcohol clearinghouse to support a more drug‐free driver workforce.
Wie viel Ungewissheit ist akzeptabel?
Authors: Eckhardt Anne
Published: April 2024

Ungewissheiten bei der Endlagerung hochradioaktiver Abfälle sind unter anderem in den langen Zeithorizonten begründet, über die Sicherheit belegt werden muss, und in der Komplexität des soziotechnischen Projekts der Endlagerung. Endlager für hochradioaktive Abfälle sind dafür konzipiert, Ungewissheiten zu vermeiden, zu vermindern oder ihre Auswirkungen zu begrenzen. Dennoch bleiben bei der Endlagerung bedeutende Ungewissheiten bestehen. Die Akzeptabilität von Ungewissheiten zu beurteilen, setzt zunächst ein Verständnis der unterschiedlichen Ungewissheiten voraus, die bei der Endlagerung hochradioaktiver Abfälle von Bedeutung sind, und ihrer zeitlichen Entwicklungen. Auf dem Entsorgungsweg, der zum verschlossenen Endlager führt, müssen sowohl politische Entscheidungen als auch eine Vielzahl von Arbeitsentscheidungen zum Umgang mit Ungewissheiten getroffen werden. Dabei stellt sich die Frage, welche Ungewissheiten bzw. welches Maß an Ungewissheiten akzeptabel sind. Bei Arbeitsentscheidungen lässt sich die Akzeptabilität von Ungewissheiten anhand der spezifischen Konstellation von vier Kriterien überprüfen. Für Entscheidungen auf der politischen Ebene lassen sich ebenfalls Kriterien ableiten, um die Akzeptabilität spezifischer Ungewissheiten zu prüfen. Aufgrund der verschiedenen Formen, die Ungewissheiten annehmen, bleibt es anspruchsvoll, Gesamtbeurteilungen von Ungewissheiten auf dem Entsorgungsweg oder bei einem Endlagersystem vorzunehmen. Für die Zukunft eröffnen sich Perspektiven, Fragen zur Akzeptabilität von Ungewissheiten bei der Entsorgung radioaktiver Abfälle mit neuen Argumenten und Verfahren differenzierter zu beantworten als es bisher möglich war.
Ein erster methodischer Ansatz zur Identifikation von Ungewissheiten bei der individuellen Durchführung der Materialparameterermittlung für numerische Simulationen aus arbeitspsychologischer Sicht
Authors: Muxlhanga Henriette , Othmer Johann Arne , Sträter Oliver , Lux Karl-Heinz , Wolters Ralf , Feierabend Jörg , Sun-Kurczinski Junqing
Published: April 2024

Der Kernkraftwerksbetrieb endet. Doch die dabei entstandenen hochradioaktiven Abfälle sind für einen sehr langen Zeitraum sicher im geologischen Untergrund ein- beziehungsweise endzulagern. Angesichts von Ungewissheiten, die planungsseitig auf Prozess- und Systemebene bestehen, ist eine möglichst robuste Endlagerkonzeption erforderlich. Diese Forderung bezieht sich nicht nur auf die technische Ausgestaltung, sondern muss auch soziale Aspekte mitbetrachten – in diesem Fall den im Rahmen der Arbeitspsychologie genannten Faktor Mensch. Auf den Planungs- und Ausführungsprozess bezogen sind darunter die menschlichen Einflüsse zu verstehen, die aus subjektiv geprägtem Handeln resultieren. Die Ursachen und möglichen Auswirkungen des Faktors Mensch auf die technische Planung werden in diesem Beitrag beispielhaft untersucht. Im Rahmen des Planungsprozesses sind numerische Simulationen zur prognostischen Ermittlung des Endlagersystemverhaltens etabliert. Grundlage für die numerische Simulation ist die Abbildung des geplanten Endlagersystems in einem Simulationsmodell durch die Modellierenden. Für die Prognose des Langzeitverhaltens lässt sich nur schwer einschätzen, ob bei der Durchführung der rechnerischen Simulationen der jeweilig Modellierende mit seiner individuellen Vorgehensweise einen relevanten Einfluss hat. Daher wird in diesem Beitrag der individuelle Einfluss von Modellierenden am Beispiel einer Einlagerungsstrecke betrachtet, für die eine Prognose ihres langfristigen Tragverhaltens vorzunehmen ist. Ein Teil dieser Planungsarbeiten umfasst die Ermittlung von Parametern zur physikalischen Abbildung des Gebirgsverhaltens und die Simulation der Streckenverformungen im Laufe der Zeit. Vor diesem Hintergrund sind mehrere Modellierer parallel bei der Parameterermittlung mit verschiedenen methodischen Ansätzen der Arbeitspsychologie beobachtet worden. Die Ergebnisse dieses Beitrags zeigen, in welchem Umfang und aus welchen Gründen der Faktor Mensch bei der Prognose des Verhaltens sicherheitstechnischer Komponenten des Endlagersystems relevant sein kann. Daher sollte der Faktor Mensch soweit möglich bereits proaktiv auf Seiten des Antragstellers und nicht nur reaktiv im Rahmen des Genehmigungsverfahrens berücksichtigt werden.
Ungewissheiten und Narrative im Kontext der Entsorgung hochradioaktiver Abfälle – eine schwierige Beziehung?
Authors: Becker Frank , Berg Margarita
Published: April 2024

Bei der näheren Betrachtung des Themas „Ungewissheiten und Narrative im Kontext der Entsorgung hochradioaktiver Abfälle“ fällt auf, dass dabei oft verschiedene Begriffe verwendet werden, die zumindest im allgemeinen Sprachgebrauch als synonym oder sehr ähnlich wahrgenommen werden können. Der Beitrag umreißt daher in einem ersten Schritt das Begriffsfeld „Ungewissheit“ (Ungewissheit, Unsicherheit, Risiko, etc.) sowie das Begriffsfeld „Narrativ“ (Narrativ, Geschichte, Metapher, Slogan, etc.). Da die Rede vom Narrativ in den letzten Jahren zum Teil inflationär Verwendung findet, soll zunächst geklärt werden, was ein Narrativ charakterisiert und was im Umkehrschluss ausdrücklich kein Narrativ darstellt, obwohl der Begriff als Modewort oftmals nach Gutdünken verwendet wird. Beispielhaft werden dazu einige Narrative im Kontext der Endlagerung geschildert. Der Beitrag untersucht anschließend mögliche Verbindungen zwischen Ungewissheiten und Narrativen. Es stellt sich vor allem die Frage, inwiefern Narrative mit ihrem zielgerichteten Aufbau überhaupt geeignet sind, um Ungewissheiten zu transportieren, oder ob diese durch die Erzählstruktur nicht von vornherein ausgeschlossen bzw. relativiert werden. Als Untersuchungsbeispiel dienen unter anderem Narrative, die Radioaktivität und Kernkraft mit der negativ behafteten Metapher „Verstrahlung“ medienwirksam propagieren und dadurch Ungewissheiten und Missverständnisse verstärken können.
Wicked Financing der Endlagerung: Ungewissheiten, Widersprüche und Herausforderungen
Authors: Brunnengräber Achim , Sieveking Jan
Published: April 2024

Die finanzielle Verantwortung für die Entsorgung der hochradioaktiven Abfälle in Deutschland ging 2017 von den Betreibern der Atomkraftwerke (AKW) an den Staat über. Die Betreiber, die noch für den Rückbau der AKW verantwortlich sind, transferierten Rückstellungen in Höhe von 24,1 Mrd. EUR in den Fonds zur Finanzierung der kerntechnischen Entsorgung (KENFO). Der erste deutsche Staatsfonds, der von einer Stiftung des öffentlichen Rechts verwaltet wird, soll die Finanzierung so gewährleisten, dass keine zusätzlichen Kosten auf die Gesellschaft zukommen. Dafür soll die Stiftung die Mittel langfristig sichern und gewinnbringend anlegen. Zugleich hat die Stiftung die politische Aufgabe, bei ihren Investitionen an den Finanzmärkten Nachhaltigkeitskriterien zu berücksichtigen. Die staatliche Aufgabe der nuklearen Entsorgung erfährt damit eine Finanzialisierung: Finanzielle und gesellschaftlich-ökologische Kriterien werden miteinander verknüpft. Damit gehen Ungewissheiten und Widersprüche einher, die sich nur bedingt im Sinne eines gesellschaftlichen Nutzens auflösen lassen, was wir unter dem Begriff wicked financing zusammenfassen. Es bleibt ungewiss, ob das an den Finanzmärkten investierte Kapital bis zum Ende dieses Jahrhunderts und darüber hinaus für die Finanzierung der Endlagerung ausreicht. Es ist widersprüchlich, dass der Staatsfonds mit Demokratie- und Transparenzzielsetzungen kompatibel sein soll und gleichzeitig Aufgaben auch an externe Vermögensverwalter*innen auslagert. Schließlich stehen die Anlagestrategien im Widerspruch zu den Nachhaltigkeitskriterien, denn Investitionen erfolgen auch in Unternehmen der fossil-nuklearen Energiebranche.