bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rat and Mouse CD94 Associate Directly with the Activating Transmembrane Adaptor Proteins DAP12 and DAP10 and Activate NK Cell Cytotoxicity
Authors: Saether Per C. , Hoelsbrekken Sigurd E. , Fossum Sigbjørn , Dissen Erik
Published: November 2011

Signaling by the CD94/NKG2 heterodimeric NK cell receptor family has been well characterized in the human but has remained unclear in the mouse and rat. In the human, the activating receptor CD94/NKG2C associates with DAP12 by an ionic bond between oppositely charged residues within the transmembrane regions of NKG2C and DAP12. The lysine residue responsible for DAP12 association is absent in rat and mouse NKG2C and -E, raising questions about signaling mechanisms in these species. As a possible substitute, rat and mouse NKG2C and -E contain an arginine residue in the transition between the transmembrane and stalk regions. In this article, we demonstrate that, similar to their human orthologs, NKG2A inhibits, whereas NKG2C activates, rat NK cells. Redirected lysis assays using NK cells transfected with a mutated NKG2C construct indicated that the activating function of CD94/NKG2C did not depend on the transmembrane/stalk region arginine residue. Flow cytometry and biochemical analysis demonstrated that both DAP12 and DAP10 can associate with rat CD94/NKG2C. Surprisingly, DAP12 and DAP10 did not associate with NKG2C but instead with CD94. These associations depended on a transmembrane lysine residue in CD94 that is unique to rodents. Thus, in the mouse and rat, the ability to bind activating adaptor proteins has been transferred from NKG2C/E to the CD94 chain as a result of mutation events in both chains. Remarkable from a phylogenetic perspective, this sheds new light on the evolution and function of the CD94/NKG2 receptor family.
Cutting Edge: Loss of α4 Integrin Expression Differentially Affects the Homing of Th1 and Th17 Cells
Authors: Glatigny Simon , Duhen Rebekka , Oukka Mohamed , Bettelli Estelle
Published: November 2011

The neutralization of α4 integrin is currently used as treatment in several autoimmune diseases and is thought to prevent the entry of most immune cells in target tissues. In this study, we showed that selective deletion of α4 integrin in T cells did not prevent but delayed the development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Whereas both Th1 and Th17 cells infiltrate the CNS of wild-type mice, T cells present in the CNS of mice lacking α4 integrin were mainly enriched in Th17 cells, suggesting that this T cell subset uses other integrins to access the CNS. In contrast, α4 integrin expression is important for Th1 cells to enter the CNS and for the stability of their Th1-associated genetic program. Therefore, our data suggest that anti-α4 integrin Ab treatment may be more efficient in the treatment of Th1- rather than Th17-mediated disease.
Alloantibodies against MHC Class I: A Novel Mechanism of Neonatal Pancytopenia Linked to Vaccination
Authors: Foucras Gilles , Corbière Fabien , Tasca Christian , Pichereaux Carole , Caubet Cécile , Trumel Catherine , Lacroux Caroline , Franchi Cyrielle , Burlet-Schiltz Odile , Schelcher François
Published: November 2011

Fetal/neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia is a frequent disease in humans where alloantibodies against platelet Ags lead to platelet destruction and hemorrhage. Although a role in the disease for Abs against MHC has been suspected, this has not been formally demonstrated. Since 2007, a hemorrhagic syndrome due to thrombocytopenia and designated as bovine neonatal pancytopenia (BNP) has been recognized in calves in several European countries. An inactivated antiviral vaccine is strongly suspected to be involved in this syndrome because of its highly frequent use in the dams of affected calves. In this study, we show that BNP is an alloimmune disease, as we reproduced the signs by transferring serum Abs from vaccinated BNP dams into healthy neonatal calves. Ab specificity was strongly associated with the presence of allogeneic MHC class I Abs in the dams. MHC class I staining was also observed on Madin–Darby bovine kidney cells, a cell line related to the one used to produce the vaccine Ag. Our report emphatically demonstrates that alloimmunization against MHC class I is associated with a substantial risk of developing cytopenia-associated syndromes in neonates when a cell line of the same species is used to produce an inactivated vaccine injected into the mother.
Bone tumors in a tertiary care hospital of south India: A review 117 cases
Authors: Jain Karun , Ravishankar R , Rupakumar C S , Gadiyar H B , Manjunath G V ,   Sunila,   Mruthyunjaya
Published: November 2011

Background: Bone tumors remain a daunting challenge to orthopedic surgeons. The challenge is heightened in developing countries due to limited diagnostic and therapeutic facilities as well as due to ignorance. The published literature on this subject is sparse in our environment. Objective: To determine the pattern of bone tumors including their relative frequencies, age and sex distributions, anatomical sites of occurrence and clinico-pathological characteristics as seen in a tertiary care hospital of south India. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective review of all the histologically confirmed bone tumors seen at JSS Medical College and Hospital, Mysore over an 8 year period: 2002 to 2009. Results: A total of 117 patients (aged 5 to 82 years) with a mean of age of 26.87 years were studied. Seventy-six patients (64.96%) were males and 41 (35.04%) were females. The peak age incidence for primary bone tumors was in the age group of 11-20 years and that for metastatic bone tumors was more than 60 years. Sixty-seven (57.26%) of the tumors were benign. Among these, osteochondroma was the most common, accounting for 26 cases (22.22%) followed by Giant cell tumor (24 cases, 20.51%). Osteosarcoma accounted for 35.14% (13 cases) of all the primary malignant tumors in the study. Lower end of femur was the most common site for primary bone tumors and accounted for 30 cases (25.64%) followed by upper end of tibia and fibula (24 cases, 20.51%). The most common site for metastatic bone tumors was upper end of femur including hip joint followed by spine. Conclusion: This study showed that primary bone tumors are mainly benign, occurred predominantly in the second decade of life with a male preponderance. Osteochondroma and osteosarcoma are the most common benign and primary malignant bone tumors, respectively. The most common primary foci for metastatic bone tumor are from the respiratory tract.
The Apparent and the Effective PR Interval, Insights for Cardiac Pacing
Authors: Kossaify Antoine
Published: November 2011

A 75-year-old-male patient with dual chamber pacemaker presented with a bizarre EKG showing a unique spike within the QRS complex. Apparent PR interval was 160 ms and effective atrio- right ventricular delay was 210 ms due to right bundle branch block. Sensed AV delay was set at 180 ms causing pseudofusions. Insights regarding cardiac pacing are presented.
Factors Affecting Synonymous Codon Usage Bias in Chloroplast Genome of Oncidium Gower Ramsey
Authors: Xu Chen , Cai Xiaoning , Chen Quanzhan , Zhou Hongxia , Cai Yao , Ben Ailing
Published: November 2011

Oncidium Gower Ramsey is a fascinating and important ornamental flower in floral industry. In this research, the complete nucleotide sequence of the chloroplast genome in Oncidium Gower Ramsey was studied, then analyzed using Codonw software. Correspondence analysis and method of effective number of codon as Nc-plot were conducted to analyze synonymous codon usage. According to the corresponding analysis, codon bias in the chloroplast genome of Oncidium Gower Ramsey is related to their gene length, mutation bias, gene hydropathy level of each protein, gene function and selection or gene expression only subtly affect codon usage. This study will provide insights into the molecular evolution study and high-level transgene expression.
Estimates of vertical eddy diffusivity in the upper mesosphere in the presence of a mesospheric inversion layer
Authors: Collins R. L. , Lehmacher G. A. , Larsen M. F. , Mizutani K.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Rayleigh and resonance lidar observations were made during the Turbopause experiment at Poker Flat Research Range, Chatanika Alaska (65° N, 147° W) over a 10 h period on the night of 17–18 February 2009. The lidar observations revealed the presence of a strong mesospheric inversion layer (MIL) at 74 km that formed during the observations and was present for over 6 h. The MIL had a maximum temperature of 251 K, amplitude of 27 ± 7 K, a depth of 3.0 km, and overlying lapse rate of 9.4 ± 0.3 K km−1. The MIL was located at the lower edge of the mesospheric sodium layer. During this coincidence the lower edge of the sodium layer was lowered by 2 km to 74 km and the bottomside scale height of the sodium increased from 1 km to 15 km. The structure of the MIL and sodium are analyzed in terms of vertical diffusive transport. The analysis yields a lower bound for the eddy diffusion coefficient of 430 m2 s−1 and the energy dissipation rate of 2.2 mW kg−1 at 76–77 km. This value of the eddy diffusion coefficient, determined from naturally occurring variations in mesospheric temperatures and the sodium layer, is significantly larger than those reported for mean winter values in the Arctic but similar to individual values reported in regions of convective instability by other techniques.
Evaluating uncertainty estimates in hydrologic models: borrowing measures from the forecast verification community
Authors: Franz K. J. , Hogue T. S.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. The hydrologic community is generally moving towards the use of probabilistic estimates of streamflow, primarily through the implementation of Ensemble Streamflow Prediction (ESP) systems, ensemble data assimilation methods, or multi-modeling platforms. However, evaluation of probabilistic outputs has not necessarily kept pace with ensemble generation. Much of the modeling community is still performing model evaluation using standard deterministic measures, such as error, correlation, or bias, typically applied to the ensemble mean or median. Probabilistic forecast verification methods have been well developed, particularly in the atmospheric sciences, yet few have been adopted for evaluating uncertainty estimates in hydrologic model simulations. In the current paper, we overview existing probabilistic forecast verification methods and apply the methods to evaluate and compare model ensembles produced from two different parameter uncertainty estimation methods: the Generalized Uncertainty Likelihood Estimator (GLUE), and the Shuffle Complex Evolution Metropolis (SCEM). Model ensembles are generated for the National Weather Service SACramento Soil Moisture Accounting (SAC-SMA) model for 12 forecast basins located in the Southeastern United States. We evaluate the model ensembles using relevant metrics in the following categories: distribution, correlation, accuracy, conditional statistics, and categorical statistics. We show that the presented probabilistic metrics are easily adapted to model simulation ensembles and provide a robust analysis of model performance associated with parameter uncertainty. Application of these methods requires no information in addition to what is already available as part of traditional model validation methodology and considers the entire ensemble or uncertainty range in the approach.
Implications of deep drainage through saline clay for groundwater recharge and sustainable cropping in a semi-arid catchment, Australia
Authors: Timms W. A. , Young R. R. , Huth N.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. The magnitude and timing of deep drainage and salt leaching through clay soils is a critical issue for dryland agriculture in semi-arid regions (<500 mm yr−1 rainfall), such as parts of Australia's Murray-Darling Basin (MDB). In this unique study, hydrogeological measurements and estimations of the historic water balance of crops grown on overlying Grey Vertosols were combined to estimate the contribution of deep drainage below crop roots to recharge and salinization of shallow groundwater. Soil sampling at two sites on the alluvial flood plain of the Lower Namoi catchment revealed significant peaks in chloride concentrations at 0.8–1.2 m depth under perennial vegetation and at 2.0–2.5 m depth under continuous cropping indicating deep drainage and salt leaching since conversion to cropping. Total salt loads of 91–229 t ha−1 NaCl equivalent were measured for perennial vegetation and cropping, with salinity to ≥10 m depth that is not detected by shallow soil surveys. Groundwater salinity varied spatially from 910 to 2430 mS m−1 at 21 to 37 m depth (N = 5), whereas deeper groundwater was less saline (290 mS m−1) with use restricted to livestock and rural domestic supplies in this area. The Agricultural Production Systems Simulator (APSIM) software package predicted deep drainage of 3.3–9.5 mm yr−1 (0.7–2.1% rainfall) based on site records of grain yields, rainfall, salt leaching and soil properties. Predicted deep drainage was highly episodic, dependent on rainfall and antecedent, and over a 39 yr period was restricted mainly to the record wet winter of 1998. During the study period, groundwater levels were unresponsive to major rainfall events (70 and 190 mm total), and most piezometers at about 18 m depth remained dry. In this area, at this time, recharge negligible due to low rainfall and large potential evapotranspiration, transient hydrological conditionsafter changes in land use and a thick clay dominated vadose zone. This is in contrast to regional groundwater modelling that assumes annual recharge of 0.5% of rainfall. Importantly, it was found that leaching from episodic deep drainage could not cause discharge of saline groundwater in the area, since the water table was several meters below the incised river bed.
Prognostic Factors in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Is Patient Delay in Hospital Visit a Predictor of Survival?
Authors: Endo Y. , Tanioka M. , Miyachi Y.
Published: November 2011

The patient's delay in the visit to a hospital seems to play an important role in prognosis in invasive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). This report explored prognostic factors of cutaneous SCC focusing on patient delay in hospital visit. Data of 117 Japanese patients who were treated for invasive cutaneous SCC in our facility between 2000 and 2010 were used for analysis. A multivariate Cox proportional-hazard modelling revealed that a pair of TNM stage (hazard ratio, 5.0; 95% CI, 1.8 to 13.9) and poorer histological differentiation (hazard ratio, 3.2; 95% CI, 0.93 to 10.3), and a pair of tumour size (hazard ratio, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.004 to 1.04) and rapid growth (hazard ratio, 8.25; 95% CI, 1.29 to 52.7) were a prognostic factor whereas patient delay in hospital visit was not. However, patient delay in hospital visit was correlated with larger tumour size.
Study of Emotional Effects of Tooth Loss in an Aging North Indian Community
Authors: Naik Amit Vinayak , Pai Ranjana C.
Published: November 2011

A study was conducted to study the emotional effects of complete and partial loss of teeth in an aging North Indian community. A questionnaire was prepared for 400 elderly people above the age of 60 years, who were interviewed in dental checkup camps. The data was collected and analyzed using chi-square or chi-square exact tests. 25% of the people were found to have difficulty accepting tooth loss, whereas more than 50% of the people reported to have restricted their food choices. Other problems like reduced attendance in social gatherings for lunch/dinner or eating out in public were also noted. 56% felt that dental consultation prior to tooth loss would have helped them in a significant way. It was concluded that tooth loss did not have a marked impact on emotions of the people but affected their daily social activities, however there was negligible difference between complete and partial tooth loss subjects.
Some Combinatorial Interpretations and Applications of Fuss-Catalan Numbers
Authors: Lin Chin-Hung
Published: November 2011

Fuss-Catalan number is a family of generalized Catalan numbers. We begin by two definitions of Fuss-Catalan numbers and some basic properties. And we give some combinatorial interpretations different from original Catalan numbers. Finally we generalize the Jonah's theorem as its applications.
Late effects on haemostasis after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Tsakiris D. A. , Stussi G.
Published: November 2011

Allogeneic and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantations are important therapeutic options for patients with hematologic disorders. Hemostatic complications are frequent after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with a considerable morbidity and mortality. The incidence of bleedings and thrombosis is highest in the first few weeks after transplantation, but may also occur later. However, beyond the first year of transplantation only limited data are available. In longterm survivors the risk for premature atherosclerosis increases over time after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and it is higher than in the age-adjusted general population and in recipients of autologous transplantation.
Trends in Preeclampsia Risk Factors in the US From 2010 to 2021
Authors: Ayyash Mariam K. , McLaren Rodney , Shaman Majid , Al-Kouatly Huda B.
Published: June 2024

This population-based retrospective study uses data from the National Vital Statistics System to evaluate trends in risk factors for preeclampsia in the US between 2010 and 2021.
Cancer Incidence Trends in Successive Social Generations in the US
Authors: Rosenberg Philip S. , Miranda-Filho Adalberto
Published: June 2024

Importance

The incidence of some cancers in the US is increasing in younger age groups, but underlying trends in cancer patterns by birth year remain unclear.

Objective

To estimate cancer incidence trends in successive social generations.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this cohort study, incident invasive cancers were ascertained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program’s 13-registry database (November 2020 submission, accessed August 14, 2023). Invasive cancers diagnosed at ages 35 to 84 years during 1992 to 2018 within 152 strata were defined by cancer site, sex, and race and ethnicity.

Exposure

Invasive cancer.

Main Outcome and Measures

Stratum-specific semiparametric age-period-cohort (SAGE) models were fitted and incidence per 100 000 person-years at the reference age of 60 years was calculated for single-year birth cohorts from 1908 through 1983 (fitted cohort patterns [FCPs]). The FCPs and FCP incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were compared by site for Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980) and Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964).

Results

A total of 3.8 million individuals with invasive cancer (51.0% male; 8.6% Asian or Pacific Islander, 9.5% Hispanic, 10.4% non-Hispanic Black, and 71.5% non-Hispanic White) were included in the analysis. In Generation X vs Baby Boomers, FCP IRRs among women increased significantly for thyroid (2.76; 95% CI, 2.41-3.15), kidney (1.99; 95% CI, 1.70-2.32), rectal (1.84; 95% CI, 1.52-2.22), corpus uterine (1.75; 95% CI, 1.40-2.18), colon (1.56; 95% CI, 1.27-1.92), and pancreatic (1.39; 95% CI, 1.07-1.80) cancers; non-Hodgkins lymphoma (1.40; 95% CI, 1.08-1.82); and leukemia (1.27; 95% CI, 1.03-1.58). Among men, IRRs increased for thyroid (2.16; 95% CI, 1.87-2.50), kidney (2.14; 95% CI, 1.86-2.46), rectal (1.80; 95% CI, 1.52-2.12), colon (1.60; 95% CI, 1.32-1.94), and prostate (1.25; 95% CI, 1.03-1.52) cancers and leukemia (1.34; 95% CI, 1.08-1.66). Lung (IRR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.50-0.72) and cervical (IRR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.57-0.89) cancer incidence decreased among women, and lung (IRR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.43-0.60), liver (IRR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.63-0.91), and gallbladder (IRR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.72-1.00) cancer and non-Hodgkins lymphoma (IRR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.61-0.93) incidence decreased among men. For all cancers combined, FCPs were higher in Generation X than for Baby Boomers because gaining cancers numerically overtook falling cancers in all groups except Asian or Pacific Islander men.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this model-based cohort analysis of incident invasive cancer in the general population, decreases in lung and cervical cancers in Generation X may be offset by gains at other sites. Generation X may be experiencing larger per-capita increases in the incidence of leading cancers than any prior generation born in 1908 through 1964. On current trajectories, cancer incidence could remain high for decades.
Cyclization of ubiquitin chains reinforces their recognition by ZNF216
Authors: Sorada Tomoki , Walinda Erik , Morimoto Daichi
Published: June 2024

Lys48‐linked ubiquitin chains, regulating proteasomal protein degradation, are known to include cyclized forms. This cyclization hinders recognition by many downstream proteins by occluding the Ile44‐centered patch. In contrast, the A20‐like Znf domain of ZNF216 (a ubiquitin‐binding protein, A20 Znf) is expected to bind to cyclic ubiquitin chains via constitutively solvent‐exposed surfaces. However, the underlying interaction mechanism remains unclear. Here, our ITC and NMR experiments collectively showed that cyclization did not interfere with and even slightly enhance the molecular recognition of diubiquitin by A20 Znf. This effect is explained by the cyclization‐induced repression of conformational dynamics in diubiquitin and an enlarged molecular interface in the complex. Thus, these results suggest that cyclic ubiquitin chains can be involved in regulation of ZNF216‐dependent proteasomal protein degradation.
Wild animal trade in Cameroon: An insight into species involved and conservation implications in the western Highlands
Authors: Majiteu Murielle , Tamungang Simon Awafor , Fotang Chefor , Tache Jose Innoncent Tamdjo , Riegert Jan
Published: June 2024

Illegal bushmeat trade is a significant driver of the decline in wildlife populations within the tropics. Despite the intense trade of bushmeat in Cameroon, there is dearth or no official statistics on the kind of animals sold in the markets in most parts of Cameroon. To abridge this knowledge gap, an inventory of wild animals sold in local markets was carried out.

The animal taxa sold within the markets were identified, and their abundance, class diversity and conservation status according to the IUCN Red List of threatened species and Cameroon wildlife classification were assessed. Semi‐structured questionnaires were randomly administered to 200 traders randomly selected in 16 markets. Multivariate analyses were used to compare the proportions of sold taxa among the markets and the proportions of taxa based on their conservation status.

Results were summarized as shown below: (1) 476 individuals of animals were recorded, covering 47 taxa, 41 genera, 33 families, 18 orders and 3 classes from bushmeat vendors. (2) Mammals dominated the trade in all markets (by a mean of 74.3% per market), followed by reptiles (16.1%) and birds (9.5%) in terms of both abundance and diversity. (3) Cane rats (Thryonomyidae) and primates (Cercopithecidae) represented the highest proportions of animal specimens recorded. (4) The diversity of mammals sold was highest in Foumbot, followed by Bangangte, Bafousam and Bangoua as the main local markets, and lowest mammalian diversity was found in Batcham and Baham village markets. (5) The most often traded animal species belonged to the least concern category, followed by vulnerable, near threatened, endangered, and critically endangered.

In general, we observed that less protected species by the IUCN Red List and Cameroon wildlife classification were often found in village markets and species with higher conservation value were often sold in city markets. Similarly, the main markets hosted the highest diversity of sold animals, especially mammals. The size of the human settlement together with its location nearby protected area and/or placement of the market by the main road are the main drivers determining numbers and diversity of sold animals, and further attention to government conservation activities should be focused on these markets.
Shifting dynamics in restoration ecology: Concrete steps towards centering Black, Indigenous, and People of Color's communities and perspectives
Authors: Rosa Samantha , Hollis Sarah , Francia Regina Mae , Renner Amelia , Johnson Nia , Barak Rebecca S. , Jones Holly P. , Williams Evelyn W. , Foxx Alicia J.
Published: June 2024

Ecological restoration is a crucial tool for mitigating climate change and addressing the global biodiversity crisis. The extensive knowledge of Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) will play a key role in accelerating the advancement of restoration efforts but has historically been excluded. BIPOC traditions and practices of protecting and restoring ecological communities include intricate socio‐ecological systems whose holistic practices preserve cultural knowledge while simultaneously addressing environmental issues.

If we are to have a seat at the table for everyone and meet the lofty goals of the U.N. Decade on Ecosystem Restoration to contribute to reversing the biodiversity and climate crises, the field of restoration ecology can no longer afford to exclude BIPOC communities and their irreplaceable social, cultural, and ecological knowledge.

Solution: We offer opportunities to engage BIPOC communities and their contributions to restoration, and to introduce a restoration community to connect and center BIPOC through the Black Earth Restoration Collective. This is a call to action to those with power and access in restoration ecology to make vital shifts needed to accomplish a more equitable and just approach to restoration.
Fixed‐time neuroadaptive formation control for multiple QUAVs with external disturbance
Authors: Cheng Shuai , Xin Bin , Du Zhaofeng , Chen Jie
Published: June 2024

This paper studies the formation control of multiple quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicle systems (MQUAVSs) with external disturbance. A new adaptive fixed‐time cooperative control protocol is designed for MQUAVSs. A fixed‐time command filtered compensation control technology is presented to overcome the “explosion of complexity” issue, and a new fixed‐time error compensation signal is designed to compensate the filtering error, which improves the convergence speed of the system. Adaptive neural network technology is introduced to deal with unknown nonlinear functions in the system. A fixed‐time stability theorem is presented for MQUAVSs to ensure that MQUAVSs can reach the predetermined formation and the formation tracking errors converge to the neighborhood of the origin in a fixed time. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by the formation simulation of MQUAVs.
Simulation of Heat Transfer and Propagation Velocity for Different Heat Loss Conditions for Guided Propagation Fronts in Reactive Multilayer Foils
Authors: Daneshpazhoonejad Farshad , Shekhawat Deepshikha , Döll Joachim , Pezoldt Jörg , Jung Anne
Published: June 2024

Engineering self‐propagating reactions in reactive material systems requires an understanding of critical ignition and propagation conditions. These conditions are governed by the material properties of the reactive materials responsible for net heat generation, as well as by external environmental conditions that primarily determine net heat loss. In this study, it is aimed to utilize a numerical model to investigate the critical conditions for reaction propagation based solely on the heat‐transfer equation, enabling thorough examination with significantly low computational effort. Comparing simulations with experiments demonstrates a high level of agreement in predicting reaction propagation. Additionally, this numerical model provides valuable information regarding heat distribution in substrate materials.
Synergetic Antibacterial Nanoparticles with Broad‐Spectrum for Wound Healing and Lung Infection Therapy
Authors: Guo Lei , Tang Yixin , Wang Lu , Zhou Rui , Wang Siyuan , Xu Huiqing , Yang Xi , Zhang Jizhou , Chen Jie , Xu Caina , Li Yanhui , Tian Huayu
Published: June 2024

The problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) caused by the abuse of antibiotics is becoming serious. The development of antibacterial materials with synergistic efficiency and treatment of deep tissue/organ infections is imminent. Herein, synergistic antibacterial nanoparticles (MPH NPs) are prepared by loading antibacterial peptide polymyxin B (PMB) on Fe‐based MOF (MIL‐100) with hyaluronic acid (HA) modification. MPH NPs exerts antibacterial effects by chemodynamic therapy (CDT) and the release of PMB. MPH NPs have broad‐spectrum antibacterial properties on Gram‐negative bacteria (E. coli, 100%), Gram‐positive bacteria (S. aureus, 98.5 %), and MRSA (98.4%). Importantly, MPH NPs not only promote the healing of infected wounds but also target lungs to accomplish organ infection therapy. Therefore, this study provides a new strategy for designing a synergetic anti‐AMR bacteria system and the function for deep tissue/organ infection therapy in the future.
Advances in Liquid Metal Printed 2D Oxide Electronics
Authors: Scheideler William J. , Nomura Kenji
Published: June 2024

2D metal oxides (2DMOs) have recently emerged as a high‐performance class of ultrathin, wide bandgap materials offering exceptional electrical and optical properties for a wide area of device applications in energy, sensing, and display technologies. Liquid metal printing represents a thermodynamically advantageous strategy for synthesizing 2DMOs by a solvent‐free and vacuum‐free scalable method. Here, recent progress in the field of liquid metal printed 2D oxides is reviewed, considering how the physics of Cabrera‐Mott oxidation gives this rapid, low‐temperature process advantages over alternatives such as sol‐gel and nanoparticle processing. The growth, composition, and crystallinity of a burgeoning set of 1–3 nm thick liquid metal printed semiconducting, conducting, and dielectric oxides are analyzed that are uniquely suited for the fabrication of high‐performance flexible electronics. The advantages and limitations of these strategies are considered, highlighting opportunities to amplify the impact of 2DMO through large‐area printing, the design of doped metal alloys, stacking of 2DMO to electrostatically engineer new oxide heterostructures, and implementation of 2D oxide devices for gas sensing, photodetection, and neuromorphic computing.
Ionic Modulation of Ferromagnetic and Proximity‐Induced Magnetization in Co/Pd Heterostructures
Authors: Kossak Alexander E. , Kaczmarek Allison C. , Valvidares Manuel , Gargiani Pierluigi , Hasan M. Usama , Beach Geoffrey S. D.
Published: June 2024

Despite the rampant discovery of tunable magnetic properties using magneto‐ionic gating, e.g., magnetic anisotropy, exchange bias, and exchange interactions, there are few studies that give a quantitative understanding of the reversible and irreversible effects of ionic infiltration. In this study, in situ vibrating sample magnetometry, superconducting quantum interference device magnetometry, and X‐ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) reveal the reversible and irreversible control of magnetization, anisotropy, proximity‐effects, spin, and orbital angular momenta. Pd/Co/Pd trilayers, loaded using solid‐state hydrogen‐ion gating, show a decrease in the saturation magnetization of Co, and an increase in the proximity‐induced moment of Pd. This results in little to no change in the net effective magnetization, yet, allows for the effective anisotropy to be reversibly controlled by 270 kJ m−3. The reversible control of the effective anisotropy is dominated by a reversible change in surface anisotropy, however, under repeated cycling, irreversible evolution occurs in the heterostructure. XMCD measurements indicate this is partly due to hydrogen‐induced modification of the spin and orbital angular momenta. Together, these measurements indicate that the origin of the reversible and irreversible effects of magneto‐ionic gating is interfacial and provides crucial insight to scale and optimize thin film heterostructures for enhanced longevity and faster response time.
Synthesis of NIR/SWIR Absorbing InSb Nanocrystals Using Indium(I) Halide and Aminostibine Precursors
Authors: Kwon Yongju , Yeromina Oleksandra , Cavallo Mariarosa , Silly Mathieu G. , Pierucci Debora , Lhuillier Emmanuel , Aldakov Dmitry , Hyot Bérangère , Reiss Peter
Published: June 2024

Colloidal InSb quantum dots (QDs) are a potential alternative to toxic Pb‐ and Hg‐chalcogenide QDs for covering the technologically important near‐infrared/shortwave infrared (NIR/SWIR) spectral range. However, appropriate Sb precursors are scarce and obtaining narrow size distributions is challenging. Tris(dimethylamido)antimony (Sb(NMe2)3) is an appealing choice due to its commercial availability and non‐pyrophoric character but implies the reduction of antimony from the +3 to the required –3 state. In reported works, strong reducing agents such as lithium triethylborohydride are used, which lead to the fast co‐reduction of both Sb3+ and In3+. The downsides of this approach are reproducibility issues and the risk of forming metal nanoparticles due to the different reduction kinetics of Sb3+ and In3+. Here, indium(I) halides are explored as simultaneous indium source and mild reducing agent for the antimony precursor. The wavelength of the excitonic absorption peak of the phase‐pure InSb QDs obtained with this approach can be tuned from 630 to 1890 nm, which corresponds to a size range of ≈2–7 nm. The synthesis can also be conducted in a heat‐up manner, which facilitates the scale‐up and paves the way for the use of InSb QDs in applications such as NIR/SWIR photodetectors, cameras, biological imaging, and telecommunications.
Wearable Devices for Respiratory Monitoring
Authors: Vicente Bernardo A. , Sebastião Raquel , Sencadas Vitor
Published: June 2024

Respiratory diseases are currently monitored through traditional pulmonary function tests, such as spirometry. However, the restrictions of these procedures, particularly in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic, have underscored the need for alternative approaches to respiratory health assessment. Wearable devices have emerged as a promising solution, providing continuous data collection, and overcoming the limitations posed by conventional methods. This review explores the multifaceted field of wearable devices for respiratory monitoring, presenting the most common sensing technologies applied to pulmonary ventilation, their constituent materials, fabrication techniques, and diverse morphologies to enhance sensor performance. The role of machine learning algorithms and ethical data sharing is highlighted, contributing to the forthcoming patient‐centered healthcare landscape. Ultimately, the importance of validation and calibration protocols for wearable devices is underlined. In anticipation of evolving healthcare needs, this in‐depth study addresses the current challenges in wearable respiratory monitoring while laying a robust foundation for a personalized, connected, and ethically sound future for respiratory care.
Multi‐Scale Functionally Designed ZnWO4 Artificial Interphase for Ultra‐Stable Aqueous Zn Metal Anodes Under High Current Rates
Authors: Yi Chao , Jiao Long , Wang Jizhen , Ma Yuchao , Bai Hongyuan , Liu Qiaoyun , Wang Shaoyu , Xin Wei , Lei Yechen , Zhang Tian , Yang Leixin , Shu Dengkun , Yang Shuo , Li Kaihua , Li Chenyang , Li Huan , Zhang Wenjun , Cheng Bowen
Published: June 2024

Aqueous zinc ion batteries have received unprecedented attention owing to their superior safety and sustainability, yet their cycling stability especially at high current rates is greatly limited by the poor reversibility of Zn metal anodes, due to the delayed ion transport, severe water‐induced side reactions, and uncontrollable dendrites growth at electrolyte/electrode interface. Herein, a robust and multi‐scale functionally designed amorphous ZnWO4 (ZWO) artificial interphase that fully addresses the aforementioned issues, is proposed. The modified Zn anodes deliver remarkable stability, surpassing 3000 h of operation at a high current density of 20 mA cm−2 in symmetrical cells. Even under harsh conditions of 20 mA cm−2 and 10 mAh cm−2, the electrode demonstrates steady cycling for over 600 h with low overpotential. The excellent cycling stability and rate performance are mainly attributed to a range of collective functionalities of ZWO interphase, including short‐range and isotropic ion migration, superior ion‐screening capability, and a thermodynamically enhanced energy barrier for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) during Zn plating. These findings highlight the significance of the multi‐scale functional interphase in overcoming key barriers associated with zinc anodes under high current density, offering a facile and insightful approach for achieving high‐performance Zn metal anodes.
Biomorph Soft Actuators with Tardigrade‐Like Resilience
Authors: Salahuddin Bidita , Aziz Shazed , Zhang Xi , Feng Desheng , Zhu Zhonghua
Published: June 2024

Tardigrades are the most resilient biospecies on Earth, capable of surviving extreme conditions including high temperatures, pressures, air deprivation, and exposure to noxious chemicals and radiation. The study here undertakes biomimicry of the remarkable adaptability of tardigrades by designing biomorph soft actuators (BSAs) that can endure these harsh environments. Unlike previous tardigrade‐inspired materials, which lacked a naturalistic interaction with their surroundings, the BSAs replicate the anatomical macrostructures and the non‐monotonic environmental resilience of tardigrades, especially their ability to adapt via dehydration and rehydration. Dual‐layer hydrogel spheres are employed with embedded fluid bubbles, creating cohesive yet non‐monolithic smart BSA structures. These structures exhibit high resilience to compressive, thermal, and radiation stimuli, achieved through thermoresponsive shape morphing driven by fluid balance. Their advanced capabilities are also demonstrated, such as driving a McKibben‐type artificial muscle and rapidly regenerating themselves from a state exposed to hazardous chemicals. Such versatile actuating biomorphs hold great promise for various autonomous applications, including soft robotic operations in aqueous effluents, deserts, polar regions, and outer space.
Electrolyte‐Tailored Heterostructured Zinc Metal Anodes with Tunable Electric Double Layer for Fast‐Cycling Aqueous Zinc Batteries
Authors: Zhao Jingteng , Ma Shaobo , Wang Zhongqiang , Gao Qixin , Xiao Huang , Gao Jian , Li Fang , Li Guoxing
Published: June 2024

The structures and properties of the electric double layer (EDL) on zinc (Zn) anodes significantly influence the cycling and rate performance of aqueous Zn batteries (ZBs). Here, a strategy is reported to regulate the EDL structure through work function (Wf) engineering to effectively enhance the electrochemical performance of ZBs, which is enabled by electrolyte‐tailored growth of heterogenous metal with a large Wf on the Zn anode. The metal‐to‐metal charge transfer in heterostructured Zn metal induced by the disparity of Wf increases the surface charge density, which enriches the Zn ions and shortens the thickness of EDL. The compressed EDL weakens the repulsive force of Zn deposits to achieve a tightly stacked and dendrite‐free Zn deposition. Besides, the formed H2O‐deficient EDL structure enables the inorganic‐rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) with high Zn‐ion conductivity to inhibit the notorious parasitic reactions and improve the electrode reaction kinetics. Consequently, the Zn||Zn symmetric cells demonstrate an ultra‐long cycling life over 2700 cycles (the cumulative capacity reaches 5400 mA h cm−2) at a high current density of 50 mA cm−2. The Zn anodes show a high average Coulombic efficiency of 99.70% over 3650 cycles. The Zn||MnO2 full cells exhibit excellent practical‐level performance under cyclic continuous mode (3000‐cycle life at high rates) and cyclic intermittent mode (1170‐cycle life with 83.05% capacity retention). Practical pouch cells are also demonstrated with outstanding cycling performance.
Oleogel Microsphere‐Based Composite Protective Coatings with Room‐Temperature Self‐Healing Enabled by a “Soft + Hard” Hybrid Architecture
Authors: Cui Jincan , Bao Yanyang , Dai Qibin , Li Fuping , Wang Heng , Liu Yu , Cao Fengli , Li Jing
Published: June 2024

Intrinsically self‐healing coatings are compelling candidates for highly reliable anti‐corrosion technologies because of their easy implementation, low cost, and repeatable self‐healing. However, most of these coatings require intervention to initiate healing due to the locking of their chain segments under ambient conditions (to provide sufficient mechanical strength). Herein, a “soft + hard” hybrid architecture strategy of preparing oleogel‐based protective coatings with room‐temperature and repeatable self‐healing is proposed by embedding “soft” self‐healing and viscoelastic oleogel microspheres (OMs) in “hard” waterborne epoxy matrix. Such a decoupled design affords both instantaneous healing without external stimuli (crack narrowing within 10 min and protection recovered within 5 h) and good mechanical properties (improved wear resistance with an 80% reduction in friction coefficient, a 63% reduction in wear volume, as well as a maintained adhesion strength of 96%). The slippery and hydrophobic OMs also bring anti‐biofouling, interfacial water repellency, and inhibitor loading‐release features, leading to coatings with superior corrosion protection (>1010 Ω cm2 impedance modulus throughout 110 d) rather than just their self‐healing. This work demonstrates a feasible approach to integrating room‐temperature repeatable self‐healing and sufficient mechanical strength in future coating design.
Implementing a Two‐in‐One Defect Passivation Strategy Utilizing CsX for High‐Performance Printable Carbon‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: He Jingshan , He Jingwen , Ma Dun , Shao Wu , Sheng Jie , Zhang Huidong , Zhang Liming , Zou Can , Ding Tian , Cen Ronghao , Yang Shuang , Chen Qi , Wu Yongzhen , Wu Wenjun , Zhu Wei‐Hong
Published: June 2024

In the rapidly advancing realm of perovskite solar cells, the rectification of defects has surfaced as a crucial scientific challenge. The control over defect states, especially in printable mesoscopic perovskite solar cells (p‐MPSCs), is hindered by the complexities of screen‐printing technology. Here a novel “two‐in‐one” defect passivation strategy is presented, through doping TiO2 paste with cesium halide salts (CsX, where X = F, Cl, Br, I) to integrate all‐inorganic Cs halides, particularly CsF, into the electron transport layer in p‐MPSCs. Owing to the robust interaction between F− ions and TiO2 compared to Cs+ ions, and the inability of F− to infiltrate the perovskite lattice, F− and Cs+ play distinct roles starting from the buried interface of the p‐MPSCs. Specifically, F− can rectify the oxygen vacancies on the TiO2 surface, thus alleviating the residual stress at the perovskite's buried interface. Simultaneously, Cs+ diffuses to the top perovskite and mends the methylamine vacancies. As a result, the PCE of the optimal device, based on F‐doped TiO2, witnesses a significant improvement from 16.18% (control) to 18.24%. The two‐in‐one strategy utilizing CsX from the buried interface can well realize the all‐inorganic defect rectification, thereby offering a promising prospect for the enhancement of p‐MPSC performance.
Asymmetric Bond Delta‐Polarization at the Interfacial Se─Ru─O Bridge for Efficient pH‐Robust Water Electrolysis
Authors: Chen Ya , Liu Yaoda , Li Lei , Sakthive Thangavel , Guo Zhixin , Dai Zhengfei
Published: June 2024

The rationalization of pH‐robust catalysis is highly desired but challengeable for overall water electrolysis (WE). It requests a metal active site that can make an efficient adaption with both cathodic hydrogen and anodic oxygen evolution reactions (HER/OER). Herein, a RuO2‐x/RuSe2 heterostructure electrocatalyst is profiled with interfacial Se─Ru─O bridge for the pH‐robust water splitting studies. An asymmetric bond delta‐polarization (Δp) is found at the interfacial Se─Ru─O bridge, including the Δp > 0 at the Ru─O part and Δp < 0 at the Ru─Se side by both experiment and calculation results. The enlarged Ru─O bond polarizability (Δp > 0) can in principle trigger the lattice oxygen mediated (LOM) pathway for OER; meanwhile, the reduced Ru─Se bond polarizability can benefit the HER due to the strengthened d‐p band hybridization. Resultantly, the heterostructure can deliver ultralow overpotentials of 25/10 mV for Pt‐beyond HER and 210/255 mV for OER at 10 mA cm−2 in acidic/alkaline media, respectively. In especial, the acidic overall WE can be stably operated for 200 h with a low cell voltage of 1.478 V at 10 mA cm−2. This research clarifies the asymmetric bond polarization as the criterion for the rational design of efficient WE catalysts.
Reaction Mechanism and Structural Evolution of Tunnel‐Structured KCu7S4 Nanowires in Li+/Na+‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Kuikui , Wang Hui , Du Xiaobing , Dai Shuge , Wang Ye , Xu Tingting , Liu Meilin , Cheng Shaobo
Published: June 2024

Selecting suitable electrode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) often relies on the experience gained from lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), particularly in terms of thermodynamics. However, this approach may fall into a stagnant situation where the development of SIBs consistently lags behind that of LIBs due to the larger ionic radius of Na+. Accordingly, it is crucial to establish a dedicated selection rule specifically tailored for SIB electrodes to overcome this challenge. Herein, a screening method is proposed for SIB materials, where an ideal candidate shall form a stable intermediate transition phase with Na+. This phase acts as an important bridge that can regulate the insertion/extraction of charge carriers. Atomically resolved transmission electron microscopy demonstrates that KCu7S4 can react with Na+ to form a stable intermediate phase (Na3Cu4S4). Na3Cu4S4 can undergo reversible conversion reactions, contribute capacity, stabilize the tunnel structure and enhance the migration/diffusion of Na+. In contrast, Li+ can't form a stable intermediate phase in KCu7S4 during lithiation/delithiation, thus losing the ability to effectively regulate Li+ insertion/extraction. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of suitable electrode materials for SIBs, emphasizing the importance of stable intermediate phases in regulating charge carrier insertion/extraction and improving overall battery performance.
Materials Advances in Photocatalytic Solar Hydrogen Production: Integrating Systems and Economics for a Sustainable Future
Authors: Gunawan Denny , Zhang Jiajun , Li Qiyuan , Toe Cui Ying , Scott Jason , Antonietti Markus , Guo Jinghua , Amal Rose
Published: June 2024

Photocatalytic solar hydrogen generation, encompassing both overall water splitting and organic reforming, presents a promising avenue for green hydrogen production. This technology holds the potential for reduced capital costs in comparison to competing methods like photovoltaic‐electrocatalysis and photoelectrocatalysis, owing to its simplicity and fewer auxiliary components. However, the current solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency of photocatalytic solar hydrogen production has predominantly remained low at ≈1–2% or lower, mainly due to curtailed access to the entire solar spectrum, thus impeding practical application of photocatalytic solar hydrogen production. This review offers an integrated, multidisciplinary perspective on photocatalytic solar hydrogen production. Specifically, the review presents the existing approaches in photocatalyst and system designs aimed at significantly boosting the solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency, while also considering factors of cost and scalability of each approach. In‐depth discussions extending beyond the efficacy of material and system design strategies are particularly vital to identify potential hurdles in translating photocatalysis research to large‐scale applications. Ultimately, this review aims to provide understanding and perspective of feasible pathways for commercializing photocatalytic solar hydrogen production technology, considering both engineering and economic standpoints.