bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil Acidification in Cocoa (Theobrama cocoa) Agrosystems in Côte d’Ivoire (I): Effect of Carbonate Based Mineral Amendments on Soil Chemical Properties and Growth of Cocoa Seedlings (Theobrama cocoa)
Authors: Bolou-Bi Emile B. , Ettien Jean Baptiste D. , Konan Annicet K.
Published: November 2023

Soil acidification is a major concern in Côte d'Ivoire. The present study examines the effect of an amendment based on crushed carbonate rock (dolomite and limestone) on soil chemistry and cocoa plant growth. To this end, cocoa seedlings were grown under controlled conditions under cover on soils taken from cocoa orchards in Aboisso (south-eastern Côte d'Ivoire). Soils were sampled at 0-20 cm, 20-40 cm and 40-60 cm. A representative composite sample of each horizon was then taken in a soil column.  The experimental trial was conducted in total randomization with six repeated treatments (Dolomite 100%, Limestone 100%, Dolomite 50% + Limestone 50%) compared with the control, soil without amendment. After six months, the results showed that the application of carbonate did not induce a significant difference (p > 0.05) in cocoa seedlings growth. However, the amended soil showed improvement chemical properties compared to unamended soil. Soil treatments with limestone improved soil base cation content, CEC and pH, but all these parameters measured still lower to minimum threshold values for good cocoa tree growth. These results showed that the combination of dolomite and limestone appears to be the amendment with the greatest potential for improving the fertility of acid soils under cocoa. Field investigations should then be undertaken to assess the effect of this carbonate combination on soil acidity and fertility under natural conditions.
Network Analysis via Pseudo-Boolean Functions and Boole-Shannon Expansion
Authors: Alsalami Omar Mutab , Rushdi Ali Muhammad Ali
Published: November 2023

This paper shows the significant simplicities that can be realized for network analysis when the edge capacity is big enough to allow a large value of flow. We use a network decomposition method, which substantially simplifies network analysis. The pseudo-Boolean functions are repeatedly subjected to Boole-Shannon expansion about appropriate keystone variables until subexpressions with statistically independent terms are found. This method focuses on conditioning a complex network based on the possible states of a keystone element or the possible combinations of states of many keystone elements. Two demonstration examples with ample details are provided to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method. Both examples indicate the effective utility of the Boole-Shannon expansion as a means for transforming a pseudo-Boolean function into a probability-ready expression and subsequently into a probability expression.
Tunable Anisotropic Structural Aramid Triboelectric Aerogels Enabled by Magnetic Manipulation
Authors: Chi Mingchao , Zhang Song , Liu Tao , Liu Yanhua , Luo Bin , Wang Jinlong , Cai Chenchen , Meng Xiangjiang , Wang Shuangfei , Duan Qingshan , Nie Shuangxi
Published: November 2023

Material designs for wearable sensors are increasingly important due to variable application scenarios and environmental disturbances. The high temperatures pose a significant challenge to the performance of sensing materials. The reasonable anisotropic structure in materials is recognized as a promising approach to address this challenge. Precise control of the orientation of the material remains difficult, owing to the entropy effect. In this work, a tunable anisotropic triboelectric aerogel via an in situ coupled magnetic alignment and protonation reduction strategy is demonstrated. The designed orientation with a fitting degree of 98% can effectively suppress electron thermionic emission, which enables the surface charge density to reach 75 µC m−2 at 300 °C. Such a perfect coordination between self‐powered sensing and thermostability innovates multifunctional wearable sensing design at high temperatures, allowing aramid‐based aerogel to be a candidate for advanced sensing materials for applications in the military and aerospace fields.
Formation of Hierarchical Zn/N‐doped Carbon Hollow Nanofibers towards Dendrite‐Free Zn Metal Anodes
Authors: Yu Huan , Yao Haixin , Zheng Yaqi , Liu Dan , Chen Jun Song , Guo Yan , Li Nian Wu , Yu Le
Published: November 2023

Rechargeable aqueous Zn metal batteries are considered as promising next‐generation energy storage device because of their intrinsic safety and low cost. Nonetheless, the poor lifespan stemming from uncontrollable dendrite growth and inevitable parasitic reactions of metallic Zn impede their large‐scale application. Herein, the formation of the hierarchical lotus root‐like Zn/N‐doped carbon hollow nanofibers‐based paper is reported decorated with interconnected Zn/N‐doped carbon nanocages (denoted as LRZCF@ZCC) as a freestanding host with multifunctionality for Zn metal anode. Of note, the interconnected porous structure mitigates the internal stress to ensure robust structure. Besides, the concave surface of inner LRZCF@ZCC channel facilitates the nucleation of Zn2+ to geometrically guide the Zn deposition. Meanwhile, the well‐distributed metallic Zn and N‐doped carbon species can serve as the zincophilic sites to reduce the nucleation overpotential and avoid the evolution of hydrogen bubbles. As expected, the LRZCF@ZCC exhibits low polarization for the controllable Zn deposition with small voltage hysteresis. Both the symmetric cell and the full cell using this unique host demonstrate long‐term cycling duration and enhanced rate capability.
Engineering Antimicrobial Metal–Phenolic Network Nanoparticles with High Biocompatibility for Wound Healing
Authors: Yu Rongxin , Chen Hongping , He Jian , Zhang Zhichao , Zhou Jiajing , Zheng Qinqin , Fu Zhouping , Lu Chengyin , Lin Zhixing , Caruso Frank , Zhang Xiangchun
Published: November 2023

Antibiotic‐resistant bacteria pose a global health threat by causing persistent and recurrent microbial infections. To address this issue, antimicrobial nanoparticles (NPs) with low drug resistance but potent bactericidal effects have been developed. However, many of the developed NPs display poor biosafety and their synthesis often involves complex procedures and the antimicrobial modes of action are unclear. Herein, a simple strategy is reported for designing antimicrobial metal‒phenolic network (am‐MPN) NPs through the one‐step assembly of a seeding agent (diethyldithiocarbamate), natural polyphenols, and metal ions (e.g., Cu2+) in aqueous solution. The Cu2+‐based am‐MPN NPs display lower Cu2+ antimicrobial concentrations (by 10–1000 times) lower than most reported nanomaterials and negligible toxicity across various models, including, cells, blood, zebrafish, and mice. Multiple antimicrobial modes of the NPs have been identified, including bacterial wall disruption, reactive oxygen species production, and quinoprotein formation, with the latter being a distinct pathway identified for the antimicrobial activity of the polyphenol‐based am‐MPN NPs. The NPs exhibit excellent performance against multidrug‐resistant bacteria (e.g., methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)), efficiently inhibit and destroy bacterial biofilms, and promote the healing of MRSA‐infected skin wounds. This study provides insights on the antimicrobial properties of metal‒phenolic materials and the rational design of antimicrobial metal‒organic materials.
Scalable Non‐Volatile Tuning of Photonic Computational Memories by Automated Silicon Ion Implantation
Authors: Varri Akhil , Taheriniya Shabnam , Brückerhoff‐Plückelmann Frank , Bente Ivonne , Farmakidis Nikolaos , Bernhardt Daniel , Rösner Harald , Kruth Maximilian , Nadzeyka Achim , Richter Torsten , Wright Christopher David , Bhaskaran Harish , Wilde Gerhard , Pernice Wolfram H. P.
Published: November 2023

Photonic integrated circuits (PICs) are revolutionizing the realm of information technology, promising unprecedented speeds and efficiency in data processing and optical communication. However, the nanoscale precision required to fabricate these circuits at scale presents significant challenges, due to the need to maintain consistency across wavelength‐selective components, which necessitates individualized adjustments after fabrication. Harnessing spectral alignment by automated silicon ion implantation, in this work scalable and non‐volatile photonic computational memories are demonstrated in high‐quality resonant devices. Precise spectral trimming of large‐scale photonic ensembles from a few picometers to several nanometres is achieved with long‐term stability and marginal loss penalty. Based on this approach, spectrally aligned photonic memory and computing systems for general matrix multiplication are demonstrated, enabling wavelength multiplexed integrated architectures at large scales.
Direct Utilization of Expired Waste Acetaminophen as Organic Anode in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Yonghwan , Hwang Seon Jae , Kim Dohyeong , Park Jeehye , Kim Yoonbin , Kim Junsu , Bae Minjun , Hong Hwichan , Park Seungman , Park Jungjin , Maeng Ji Young , Lee Jaeyeon , Park Ho Seok , Lee Jeongyeon , Piao Yuanzhe
Published: November 2023

Drug disposal and abuse are increasing every year, and the use of drugs has recently reached its peak due to COVID‐19. However, there still remains a lack of awareness regarding the proper disposal of waste medications, and if not properly disposed of, these complex chemical structures can have severe environmental impacts. Furthermore, as this waste contains chemically valuable substances, a recycling strategy is needed. To address this issue, the potential of reusing expired commercial acetaminophen tablets as freeze‐dried acetaminophen (FAP) for a lithium‐ion battery (LIB) anode material is investigated. The Li storage mechanism and electrochemical performance are investigated via density functional theory, ex situ Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, galvanostatic discharge/charge analysis, and cyclic voltammetry. The FAP anode exhibited the excellent electrochemical performances and cycle stability. This study will present a new recycling approach, and the results demonstrate the application potential of waste medications in LIBs, which can contribute to resource recovery and the circular economy.
Flexible Wearable Ti3C2Tx Composite Carbon Fabric Textile with Infrared Stealth and Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Effect
Authors: Chen Mingxing , Jiang Xinpeng , Huang Jie , Yang Junbo , Wu Jiagui , Liang Yiming , Wang Tianwu , Yan Peiguang
Published: November 2023

Ti3C2Tx materials have been developed to have application space in many fields, but there are not many works that can be compatible with infrared (IR) stealth and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding at the same time. To realize the multiband high EMI shielding of Ti3C2Tx materials, and to achieve stealth effect in the IR band, in this work, a composite textile is prepared by combining the Ti3C2Tx material with a carbon cloth and sputtering a very thin gold film on the surface. This composite textile can realize high EMI shielding compatible with IR stealth, in which the EMI shielding efficiency for microwave Xa‐band (8GHza‐12.4GHz) is up to 71.8 dB, for microwave Kaa‐band (26.5GHza‐40GHz) is up to 75.02 dB, and for terahertza‐band is about 30 dB. IR emissivity is as low as 0.1, and the lowest emissivity under a certain temperature reaches 0.07, which can withstand a high temperature of 500 °C. In addition, this composite textile has flexible and bendable wear. The thickness of the whole textile is about 400 µm, of which the Ti3C2Tx material thickness is only about 10 µm, the thinnest reaches 2 µm. Such a textile can be used in both people's livelihood and military applications, which has far‐reaching significance.
Metasurface‐Based Structured Light Sensing Without Triangulation
Authors: Li Chengzhi , Li Xin , He Cong , Geng Guangzhou , Li Junjie , Jing Xiaoli , Wang Yongtian , Huang Lingling
Published: November 2023

Structured light (SL) sensing technology, based on the triangulation principle, is widely employed for depth perception in various applications such as face recognition, human‐computer interaction, machine vision, and more. In this approach, the baseline length, which refers to the distance between the projection device and the camera, is a critical parameter that affects depth measurement and system miniaturization. Recently, metasurfaces have emerged as promising devices for constructing compact optoelectronic systems due to their excellent performance in wavefront modulation of light and ultra‐thin characteristics. In this study, a metasurface‐based monocular SL depth detection scheme is proposed that incorporates a specially designed 3D holographic projection. Under this projected light field, the entire 3D space is labeled, and depth information can be obtained without considering the baseline length, which can further reduce the volume of SL systems. Additionally, a template‐matching algorithm based on correlation coefficient analysis is developed and experimentally demonstrates its feasibility by precisely positioning objects. It is believed that this work opens up a new perspective for compact, lightweight, and flexible design of SL sensing systems, and has a promising future in quantitative detection, automatic location, and industrial measurement.
A Spatiotemporal Cascade Platform for Multidimensional Information Encryption and Anti‐Counterfeiting Mechanisms
Authors: Zuo Maocheng , Zou Shuqi , Gao Yu , Zhou Dun , Zhang Kongqing , Li Xiaobai , Ma Hongwei , Li Bin , Huang Wei
Published: November 2023

The efficient collaboration of light tunability and intelligent deformation of fluorescent materials can create an advanced spatiotemporal cascade platform that enables multi‐level and multidimensional information storage and encryption. Here, cellulose‐based dynamic double‐network hydrogels with excitation‐dependent (Ex‐De) behavior are proposed. The mechanism of multi‐channel radiative relaxation and multiple excited state transition of the photoactive component 4′‐([2,2′:6′,2″‐terpyridin]−4′‐yl)‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]−4‐carbaldehyde (TPy‐CHO) has been established, and a desirable regulation of excitation energy (wavelength, intensity) on the time scale for multi‐level encryption has been achieved. Notably, the dense hydrogen bonds and non‐covalent interactions in polymer networks not only enhance the Ex‐De behavior, but also provide excellent optical resolution and richer polychromic fluorescence. Even ideal cold white fluorescence is obtained through energy transfer between organic (TPy‐CHO) and inorganic (lanthanide ion) hybrid materials. Simultaneously, this unique network structure endows the hydrogel with temperature‐mediated self‐healing, controllable shape programming behavior and anti‐swelling ability, allowing to achieve dynamic multidimensional information encryption capability. The encoded information can reversibly emerge and disappear, allowing for instantaneous on‐demand decryption and intelligent re‐writability. As a result, a promising multi‐level and multidimensional synergistic anti‐counterfeiting mechanism is established through the cascade process of “spatial security‐ light trigger‐ fluorescence multilevel output‐temporal rewriting”.
Prediction of Quantum Yields of Monolayer WS2 by Machine Learning
Authors: Khor Jolene W. P. , Tran Trang Thu , Sharbirin Anir S. , Yap Sammy X. B. , Choo Hyunseung , Kim Jeongyong
Published: November 2023

Monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (1L‐TMDs) exhibits distinct light emissions in the visible range, making them suitable for 2D optoelectronic applications. Photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) is a key factor for practical applications of 1L‐TMDs. However, the methods for PLQY measurements of 1L‐TMDs suffer from limitations due to the small sample size and typically low PLQY, which require a complex measurement setup. In this study, machine learning (ML) models are developed to predict the PLQY of monolayer tungsten disulfide (1L‐WS2) using data extracted from 1208 PL spectra and corresponding measurement conditions as the ML training and testing data set. The ML model shows a high accuracy with R2 value of 0.744 and a mean absolute percentage error of 44% in the prediction of widely ranged PLQYs of 1L‐WS2 from 0.07% to 38%. This data‐driven prediction not only enables the convenient PLQY estimation of 1L‐TMDs, but also helps in identifying key parameters influencing PLQYs.
Striking Change in Radiative Lifetime and Asymmetry Ratio with Temperature for the Double Perovskite Cs2NaEuCl6
Authors: Xiao Daiwen , Kai Hei‐Yui , Jia Guohua , Wong Ka‐Leung , Tanner Peter A.
Published: November 2023

The measurement of quantum yield (QY) is an important process for a phosphor. This is often accomplished by the comparison of the low‐temperature lifetime with the room temperature (RT) lifetime. It is shown that this procedure provides a considerable underestimation of QY in certain cases. Additionally, the use of the europium ion as an indicator of changes in site symmetry with temperature has severe limitations. This work reveals that a decrease in measured lifetime with increasing temperature of a system cannot always be associated with a descent in site symmetry and may be due to increasing radiative rate.
2D Solid‐Electrolyte Interphase Built by High‐Concentration Polymer Electrolyte for Highly Reversible Silicon Anodes
Authors: Wang Yuxiao , Li Tianyu , Yang Xiaofei , Yin Qianwen , Wang Shaogang , Zhang Hongzhang , Li Xianfeng
Published: November 2023

Silicon anodes with a high capacity of 4200 mAh g−1 and a low potential of 0.3 V (vs Li+/Li) enable lithium‐ion batteries with improved energy density. However, the thickened 3D solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation on Si particles in the liquid electrolytes consumes the electrolyte/active Si and blocks the Li+/e− transport, resulting in fast capacity fading. Herein, a high‐concentration polymer electrolyte (HCPE) is designed to build 2D SEI on the Si anode surface instead of the particles, which accommodates the volume change and maintains the continuous Li+/e− transport pathways as well. The retarding effect of NO3− lowers the polymerization rate of 1,3‐dioxolane (DOL), enabling 6 m LiFSI dissolution. The high concentration of LiFSI takes part in constructing the solvation structure and pulls the DOL away, reducing the decomposition of DOL and poly‐DOL (PDOL) and inducing the generation of a LiF‐ and Li3N‐rich SEI with high mechanical strength and fast Li+ transport capability. As a result, the cell using HCPE delivers a high capacity of 1765 mAh g−1 at 2C and maintains a high capacity of 2000 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.2C, which is superior to that of a liquid electrolyte (617 mAh g−1) and a low‐concentration polymer electrolyte (45 mAh g−1).
Risk factors for symptom relapse in patients with Los Angeles Grade A/B erosive esophagitis
Authors: Shih Chih‐An , Chuah Seng‐Kee , Hsu Ping‐I , Lu Ching‐Liang , Kao Sung‐Shuo , Tai Wei‐Chen , Wu I‐Ting , Tsai Kun‐Feng , Huang Wen‐Wei , Tang Sheng‐Yeh , Kuo Li‐Fu , Shie Chang‐Bih , Kuo Chao‐Hung , Wu Deng‐Chyang
Published: November 2023

Recurrence of reflux symptoms following discontinuing proton pump inhibitor therapy is a common problem in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. We aim (1) to examine the cumulative 12‐week incidence of symptom relapse following 8‐week proton pump inhibitor therapy in patients with Los Angeles grade A/B erosive esophagitis and (2) to search the risk factors predicting symptom relapse in the treatment of erosive esophagitis. From June 2010 to May 2019, patients with Los Angeles Grade A/B erosive esophagitis receiving esomeprazole therapy (40 mg qd) for 8 weeks followed by complete symptom resolution were included in this study. Subjects received on‐demand esomeprazole treatment for 12 weeks and underwent prospective follow‐up for reflux symptoms. 12‐week cumulative incidence of symptom relapse was assessed, and predictive risk factors for symptom relapse were determined by multivariate analysis. 219 patients with Los Angeles Grade A/B erosive esophagitis who achieved complete symptom resolution following 8‐week esomeprazole therapy were enrolled. During the 12‐week follow‐up period, 110 patients (50.2%) developed symptom relapse. Univariate analysis showed that symptom relapse was significantly associated with advanced age, smoking, and the presence of heartburn (p = .003, .015, and .042, respectively). Multivariate analysis with stepwise logistic regression showed that only advanced age (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.45–5.15) and smoking (95% CI: 1.30–6.58) were independent factors predicting symptom relapse with odds ratios of 2.74 and 2.92, respectively. The 12‐week cumulative incidence of symptom relapse following initial proton pump inhibitor treatment in patients with Los Angeles grade A/B erosive esophagitis is 50.2%. Advanced age and smoking are independent risk factors predicting symptom relapse following treatment in patients with mild erosive esophagitis.
Monitoring Soft Shape Surface Deformation via Optical Images for the Distinction of Contact State
Authors: Zou Zhibin , Li Zilan , Zhou Yuanzhi , Zhou Guoyuan , Xu Weiliang , Wu Wenfeng , Zhang Huiming , Chen Zefeng , Dai Zhaohe , Li Xinming
Published: November 2023

The deformability of elastomer surfaces offers the opportunity to capture multimodal physical information, which opens up possibilities for applications in intelligent interactive systems and flexible electronics. Accurately identifying the surface deformation of elastomers has been a key issue for understanding the contact state in a soft touch. However, effective monitoring of the deformed surface topography during soft‐touch processes is difficult due to the complexity of interfacial deformation. Herein, the optical detection method based on an ideal diffuse reflection model is proposed to monitor the deformation of the elastomer, enabling the acquisition of a spatially continuous deformation of the surface in a soft touch. This optical system with the parallel incident light can distinguish the elastomers’ surface deformation field by constructing the correlation between the reflected light irradiance and the surface deformation angle. This method allows for the perception of the contact area. Through the deep learning method, the recognition rate can reach more than 84.24% when there are slight differences in the contact of objects with different geometric shapes. The design offers valuable insights for contact state detection tasks and facilitates soft‐touch sensing functions through the high precision of optical signal acquisition.
Low‐Hysteresis and High‐Toughness Hydrogels Regulated by Porous Cationic Polymers: the Effect of Counteranions
Authors: Xiong Jiaofeng , Wang Xiaowei , Li Lingling , Li Qingning , Zheng Sijie , Liu Ziyang , Li Weizheng , Yan Feng
Published: November 2023

Service life and range of polymer materials is heavily reliant on their elasticity and mechanical stability under long‐term loading. Slippage of chain segments under load leads to significant hysteresis of the hydrogels, limiting its repeatability and mechanical stability. Achieving the desired elasticity exceeding that of rubber is a great challenge for hydrogels, particularly when subjected to large deformations. Here, low‐hysteresis and high‐toughness hydrogels were developed through controllable interactions of porous cationic polymers (PCPs) with adjustable counteranions, including reversible bonding of PCP frameworks/polymer segments (polyacrylamide, PAAm) and counteranions/PAAm. This strategy reduces chain segment slippage under load, endowing the PCP‐based hydrogels (PCP‐gels) with good elasticity under large deformations (7 % hysteresis at a strain ratio of 40). Furthermore, due to the enlarged chain segments entanglement by PCP, the PCP‐gels exhibit large strain (13000 %), significantly enhanced toughness (68 MJ m−3), high fracture energy (43.1 kJ m−2), and fatigue resistance. The unique properties of these elastic PCP‐gels have promising applications in the field of flexible sensors.
Breaking the Ru−O−Ru Symmetry of a RuO2 Catalyst for Sustainable Acidic Water Oxidation
Authors: Wang Yi , Lei Xue , Zhang Bo , Bai Bing , Das Pratteek , Azam Tasmia , Xiao Jianping , Wu Zhong‐Shuai
Published: November 2023

Proton exchange membrane water electrolysis is a highly promising hydrogen production technique for sustainable energy supply, however, achieving a highly active and durable catalyst for acidic water oxidation still remains a formidable challenge. Herein, we propose a local microenvironment regulation strategy for precisely tuning In−RuO2/graphene (In−RuO2/G) catalyst with intrinsic electrochemical activity and stability to boost acidic water oxidation. The In−RuO2/G displays robust acid oxygen evolution reaction performance with a mass activity of 671 A gcat−1 at 1.5 V, an overpotential of 187 mV at 10 mA cm−2, and long‐lasting stability of 350 h at 100 mA cm−2, which arises from the asymmetric Ru−O−In local structure interactions. Further, it is unraveled theoretically that the asymmetric Ru−O−In structure breaks the thermodynamic activity limit of the traditional adsorption evolution mechanism which significantly weakens the formation energy barrier of OOH*, thus inducing a new rate‐determining step of OH* absorption. Therefore, this strategy showcases the immense potential for constructing high‐performance acidic catalysts for water electrolyzers.
Olefination of Aromatic Carbonyls via Site‐Specific Activation of Cycloalkanone Ketals**
Authors: To Tuong Anh , Nguyen Thanh Vinh
Published: November 2023

Skeletal editing is an important strategy in organic synthesis as it modifies the carbon backbone to tailor molecular structures with precision, enabling access to compounds with specific desired properties. Skeletal editing empowers chemists to transform synthetic approaches of target compounds across diverse applications from drug discovery to materials science. Herein, we introduce a new skeletal editing method to convert readily available aromatic carbonyl compounds into valuable unsaturated carboxylic acids with extended carbon chains. Our reaction setup enables a cascade reaction of enolization‐[2+2]cycloaddition‐[2+2]cycloreversion between aromatic carbonyl compounds and ketals of cyclic ketones to generate unsaturated carboxylic acids as ring‐opening products. Through a simple design, our substrates are specifically activated to react at predetermined positions to enhance selectivity and efficiency. This practical method offers convenient access to versatile organic building blocks as well as provides fresh insights into manipulating traditional reaction pathways for new synthetic applications.
Analgesic Buxus alkaloids with Enhanced Selectivity for the Low‐Voltage‐Gated Calcium Channel Cav3.2 over Cav3.1 through a New Binding Mode
Authors: Gong Ye , Liu Rui , Zha Hongjing , Dong Ding , Lu Nihong , Yan Hui , Wan Luosheng , Nian Yin
Published: November 2023

Low‐voltage‐gated calcium channels (LVGCCs; Cav3.1‐3.3) represent promising drug targets for epilepsy, pain, and essential tremor. At present, modulators with heightened selectivity for a subtype of LVGCCs are still highly desired. In this study we explored three classes of Buxus alkaloids and identified 9(10/19)abeo‐artanes Buxusemine H and Buxusemine L (BXSL) as an unprecedented type of Cav3.2 inhibitors. Particularly, BXSL exhibited Cav3.2 inhibition comparable to Z944, a non‐subtype‐selective LVGCCs inhibitor under clinical trial. While lacking specificity for Cav3.3, BXSL showed a 30‐fold selectivity of Cav3.2 over Cav3.1. As compared to several well‐known inhibitors, the experimental and computational studies suggested BXSL exhibits a distinct binding mode to Cav3.2, notably through the essential interaction with serine‐1543 in domain III. Furthermore, BXSL showed minimal impact on various recombinant and native nociceptive ion channels, while significantly reducing the excitability of isolated mouse dorsal root ganglion neurons. Animal studies in wild‐type and Cav3.2 knock‐out mice revealed that BXSL (5 mg/kg), by inhibiting Cav3.2, exhibits an analgesic effect equivalent to Z944 (10 mg/kg) or mibefradil (10 mg/kg). Moreover, we proposed a structural rationale for the high selectivity of 9(10/19)abeo‐artane‐type alkaloids towards Cav3.2 over Cav3.1. This study introduces a novel analgesic agent and valuable molecular insight for structure‐based innovative Cav3.2 drug development.
Multi‐Selenophene Incorporated Thiazole Imide‐Based n‐Type Polymers for High‐Performance Organic Thermoelectrics
Authors: Li Yongchun , Wu Wenchang , Wang Yimei , Huang Enmin , Jeong Sang Young , Woo Han Young , Guo Xugang , Feng Kui
Published: November 2023

Developing polymers with high electrical conductivity (σ) after n‐doping is a great challenge for the advance of the field of organic thermoelectrics (OTEs). Herein, we report a series of thiazole imide‐based n‐type polymers by gradually increasing selenophene content in polymeric backbone. Thanks to the strong intramolecular noncovalent N⋅⋅⋅S interaction and enhanced intermolecular Se⋅⋅⋅Se interaction, with the increase of selenophene content, the polymers show gradually lowered LUMOs, more planar backbone, and improved film crystallinity versus the selenophene‐free analogue. Consequently, polymer PDTzSI−Se with the highest selenophene content achieves a champion σ of 164.0 S cm−1 and a power factor of 49.0 μW m−1 K−2 in the series when applied in OTEs after n‐doping. The σ value is the highest one for n‐type donor‐acceptor OTE materials reported to date. Our work indicates that selenophene substitution is a powerful strategy for developing high‐performance n‐type OTE materials and selenophene incorporated thiazole imides offer an excellent platform in enabling n‐type polymers with high backbone coplanarity, deep‐lying LUMO and enhanced mobility/conductivity.
Progress and Advances in Porous Silica‐based Scaffolds for Enhanced Solid‐state Hydrogen Storage: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Abdulkadir B. A. , Jalil A. A. , Cheng C. K. , Setiabudi H. D.
Published: November 2023

Hydrogen plays a crucial role in the future energy landscape owing to its high energy density. However, finding an ideal storage material is the key challenge to the success of the hydrogen economy. Various solid‐state hydrogen storage materials, such as metal hydrides, have been developed to realize safe, effective, and compact hydrogen storage. However, low kinetics and thermodynamic stability lead to a high working temperature and a low hydrogen sorption rate of the metal hydrides. Using scaffolds made from porous materials like silica to confine the metal hydrides is necessary for better and improved hydrogen storage. Therefore, this article reviews porous silica‐based scaffolds as an ideal material for improved hydrogen storage. The outcome showed that confining the metal hydrides using scaffolds based on porous silica significantly increases their storage capacities. It was also found that the structural modifications of the silica‐based scaffold into a hollow structure further improved the storage capacity and increased the affinity and confinement ability of the metal hydrides, which prevents the agglomeration of metal particles during the adsorption/desorption process. Hence, the structural modifications of the silica material into a fibrous and hollow material are recommended to be crucial for further enhancing the metal hydride storage capacity.
Young children's perspectives of time: New directions for co‐constructing understandings of quality in ECEC
Authors: Dýrfjörð Kristín , Hreinsdóttir Anna Magnea , Visnjic‐Jevtic Adrijana , Clark Alison
Published: November 2023

Children's relationship with time in preschools is an under‐researched area. Young children rarely know how to measure time using a clock, but their experiences of time may contribute to understanding children's well‐being and debates about quality in preschools. This paper brings together two empirical exploratory studies conducted in preschools in Iceland and Croatia, respectively, and is based on participatory research methods that highlight young children's perspectives on their sense of time. First, the paper provides examples of young children's understanding of the sequence of events in preschools. Most days were marked by regular routines, such as mealtimes, circle time and outdoor activities. These stepping stones were seen as providing a rhythm for the day. Children's conversations and drawings indicated an embodied sense of time that is subjective, relational and situational. Second, questions have been raised about the impact of different time practices on young children's everyday lives in preschools. In some cases, the management of time appeared to have unintended consequences for factors relating to quality in preschools. Adherence to daily visual schedules could lead to fragmented days with fewer opportunities for uninterrupted play than time management based on ‘flow’. The subjective nature of children's sense of time is complex, and shared understandings between adults and children are not guaranteed. Careful and imaginative listening is required in order to deepen understandings on this topic. This could, in turn, support teachers to further consider the impact on children's daily experiences of preschool when planning based solely on ‘clock time’.
Loss of DNA methylation disrupts syncytiotrophoblast development: Proposed consequences of aberrant germline gene activation
Authors: Lea Georgia , Hanna Courtney W.
Published: November 2023

DNA methylation is a repressive epigenetic modification that is essential for development and its disruption is widely implicated in disease. Yet, remarkably, ablation of DNA methylation in transgenic mouse models has limited impact on transcriptional states. Across multiple tissues and developmental contexts, the predominant transcriptional signature upon loss of DNA methylation is the de‐repression of a subset of germline genes, normally expressed in gametogenesis. We recently reported loss of de novo DNA methyltransferase DNMT3B resulted in up‐regulation of germline genes and impaired syncytiotrophoblast formation in the murine placenta. This defect led to embryonic lethality. We hypothesize that de‐repression of germline genes in the Dnmt3b knockout underpins aspects of the placental phenotype by interfering with normal developmental processes. Specifically, we discuss molecular mechanisms by which aberrant expression of the piRNA pathway, meiotic proteins or germline transcriptional regulators may disrupt syncytiotrophoblast development.
Tuning mobile phase properties to improve empty and full particle separation in adeno‐associated virus productions by anion exchange chromatography
Authors: Chen Dennis P. , Wei Julie Y. , Warren James C. , Huang Chao
Published: November 2023

In the past decade, recombinant adeno‐associated virus (rAAV) has gained increased attention as a prominent gene therapy technology to treat monogenetic diseases. One of the challenges in rAAV production is the enrichment of full rAAV particles containing the gene of interest (GOI) payload. By adjusting the mobile phase properties of anion‐exchange chromatography (AEX), it was demonstrated that empty and full separation of rAAV was improved in monolith based preparative AEX chromatography. When compared to the baseline method using NaCl, the use of tetraethylammonium acetate (TEA‐Ac) in the AEX mobile phase resulted in enhanced resolution from 0.75 to 1.23 between “Empty” and “Full” peaks by salt linear gradient elution, as well as increased the percentage of full rAAV particles from 20% to 36% and genome recovery from 59% to 62%. Furthermore, a dual wash plus step elution AEX method was developed. Wherein, the first wash step harnesses TEA‐Ac to separate empty and full capsids, which is followed by a second wash step that ensures no TEA‐Ac salt is carried over into AEX eluate. The resulting optimized AEX purification method has the potential to be adapted for manufacturing and purification processes involving various rAAV production platforms that experience empty and full rAAV separation challenges.
Management of a supernumerary tooth fused to the labial surface of a permanent maxillary central incisor
Authors: Assadian Hadi , Bolhari Behnam , Khoshkhounejad Mehrfam , Chitsaz Nazanin , Babaahmadi Maryam
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Management of supernumerary teeth fused to the labial surface of permanent maxillary central incisors would require a multidisciplinary approach comprising of endodontic treatment, periodontal recontouring, and cosmetic composite restoration.

The reported cases of supernumerary teeth fused to the labial surface of maxillary central incisors are rare. Such cases need multidisciplinary approaches. Herein, management of a supernumerary tooth fused to the labial surface of a maxillary central incisor is reported. Due to the presence of a communication path between the root canal systems of the two fused teeth, root canal therapy was performed first for the maxillary left central incisor and the supernumerary tooth. The crown of the supernumerary tooth was then removed in a surgical setting while preserving the root to maintain the thin covering of alveolar bone and prevent future periodontal problems. Subsequently, an esthetic composite restoration was performed.
Treatment of recurrent pediatric myelodysplastic syndrome post hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Wachter Franziska , Pikman Yana , Bledsoe Jacob , Kapadia Malika , Baumeister Susanne , Rowe Jared , Shimamura Akiko , Place Andrew E. , Prockop Susan , Whangbo Jennifer , Lehmann Leslie , Horan John , Pollard Jessica
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Treatment of recurrent myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) remains challenging. We present a 4‐year‐old girl experiencing early MDS relapse post‐HCT treated with a multimodal strategy encompassing a second HCT and innovative targeted therapies. We underscore the potential of a comprehensive treatment approach in managing recurrent pediatric MDS.
Defect engineering on electrocatalysts for sustainable nitrate reduction to ammonia: Fundamentals and regulations
Authors: Fang Ling , Lu Shun , Wang Sha , Yang Xiaohui , Song Cheng , Yin Fengjun , Liu Hong
Published: November 2023

Electrocatalytic nitrate (NO3−) reduction to ammonia (NH3) is a “two birds‐one stone” method that targets remediation of NO3−‐containing sewage and production of valuable NH3. The exploitation of advanced catalysts with high activity, selectivity, and durability is a key issue for the efficient catalytic performance. Among various strategies for catalyst design, defect engineering has gained increasing attention due to its ability to modulate the electronic properties of electrocatalysts and optimize the adsorption energy of reactive species, thereby enhancing the catalytic performance. Despite previous progress, there remains a lack of mechanistic insights into the regulation of catalyst defects for NO3− reduction. Herein, this review presents insightful understanding of defect engineering for NO3− reduction, covering its background, definition, classification, construction, and underlying mechanisms. Moreover, the relationships between regulation of catalyst defects and their catalytic activities are illustrated by investigating the properties of electrocatalysts through the analysis of electronic band structure, charge density distribution, and controllable adsorption energy. Furthermore, challenges and perspectives for future development of defects in NO3RR are also discussed, which can help researchers to better understand the defect engineering in catalysts, and also inspire scientists entering into this promising field.
Enhancing Intrinsic Magnetic Hardness by Modulating Antagonistic Interactions in the Rare‐Earth‐Free Magnetic Solid Solution Hf2Fe1−δRu5−xIrx+δB2
Authors: Luong Diana , Schumacher Lars , Kilic Sam , Haddon Elena , Pöttgen Rainer , Fokwa Boniface P. T.
Published: November 2023

The quinary members in the solid solution Hf2Fe1−δRu5−xIrx+δB2 (x=1–4, VE=63–66) have been investigated experimentally and computationally. They were synthesized via arc‐melting and analyzed by EDX and X‐ray diffraction. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations predicted a preference for magnetic ordering in all members, but with a strong competition between ferro‐ and antiferromagnetism arising from interchain Fe−Fe interactions. The spin exchange and magnetic anisotropy energies predicted the lowest magnetic hardness for x=1 and 3 and the highest for x=2. Magnetization measurements confirm the DFT predictions and demonstrate that the antiferromagnetic ordering (TN=55–70 K) found at low magnetic fields changed to ferromagnetic (TC=150–750 K) at higher fields, suggesting metamagnetic behavior for all samples. As predicted, Hf2FeRu3Ir2B2 has the highest intrinsic coercivity (Hc=74 kA/m) reported to date for Ti3Co5B2‐type phases. Furthermore, all coercivities outperform that of ferromagnetic Hf2FeIr5B2, indicating the importance of AFM interactions in enhancing magnetic anisotropy in these materials. Importantly, two members (x=1 and 4) maintain intrinsic coercivities in the semi‐hard range at room temperature. This study opens an avenue for controlling magnetic hardness by modulating antagonistic AFM and FM interactions in low‐dimensional rare‐earth‐free magnetic materials.
The Surface of Ionic Liquids in Water: From an Ionic Tug of War to a Quasi‐Ordered Two‐Dimensional Layer
Authors: Walz Marie‐Madeleine , Signorelli Matheus Ruas Miranda , Caleman Carl , Costa Luciano T. , Björneholm Olle
Published: November 2023

The sustainable development encompasses the search for new materials for energy storage, gas capture, separation, and solvents in industrial processes that can substitute conventional ones in an efficient and clean manner. Ionic liquids (ILs) emerged and have been advanced as alternative materials for such applications, but an obstacle is their hygroscopicity and the effects on their physical properties in the presence of humidity. Several industrial processes depend on the aqueous interfacial properties, and the main focus of this work is the water/IL interface. The behavior of the aqueous ionic liquids at the water‐vacuum interface is representative for their water interfacial properties. Using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy in combination with molecular dynamics simulations we investigate four aqueous IL systems, and provide molecular level insight on the interfacial behaviour of the ionic liquids, such as ion‐pair formation, orientation and surface concentration. We find that ionic liquids containing a chloride anion have a lowered surface enrichment due to the low surface propensity of chloride. In contrast, the ionic liquids containing a bistriflimide anion are extremely surface‐enriched due to cooperative surface propensity between the cations and anions, forming a two‐dimensional ionic liquid on the water surface at low concentrations.
Combination of three‐coil and LCC‐S structures for misalignment tolerance in wireless charging system with load‐independent output
Authors: Zhang Yiming , Wu Yuanchao , Liu Chao , Zhou Mingzhu , Zhuang Yizhan
Published: November 2023

Misalignment tolerance is an important issue for the electric vehicle wireless charging system. This letter proposes a hybrid topology of the inductor–capacitor–capacitor‐series (LCC‐S) and three‐coil structures with load‐independent output to achieve misalignment tolerance, which is suitable for anti‐offset in the door‐to‐door direction of electric vehicles. The unipolar coil is divided into two windings to form the two coils in the three‐coil structure. The bipolar coil is employed as the transmitting coil of the LCC‐S topology, realizing decoupling from the two unipolar windings of three‐coil structure. The receiving coil only consists of a unipolar coil. From the central to the boundary positions, the output power of the three‐coil structure decreases while that of the LCC‐S topology increases. In this way, the output power can be stabilized against misalignment. Compared with existing hybrid topologies with two sets of coils, the receiver side adopts only one receiving coil and one compensation, which is compact, low‐profile, and cost effective. Besides, the output voltage is independent of the load, and the system can achieve constant voltage output characteristic. The experimental results validate the proposed system.
Investigation and Characterization of Nitrazapropane‐, Oxapropane‐ and Trinitrazaheptane‐Bridged Nitro Esters
Authors: Lechner Jasmin T. , Riedelsheimer Christian , Gerold Nina M. , Heidrich Jennifer , Krumm Burkhard , Stierstorfer Jörg , Klapötke Thomas M.
Published: November 2023

In this work, 1,3‐dinitroxy‐2‐nitrazapropane and 1,7‐dinitroxy‐2,4,6‐trinitrazaheptane were synthesized and investigated. Starting from hexamine, the open‐chain compounds were prepared by a modified Bachmann procedure which is commonly used for the synthesis of hexogen (RDX) and octogen (HMX). All new compounds were characterized by NMR spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, vibrational analysis and elemental analysis. Their thermal behavior was studied by differential thermal analysis (DTA) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The sensitivities towards impact (IS) and friction (FS) were determined according to the BAM (Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und ‐prüfung) standard method. Their energetic properties, which were determined from the energies of formation at the CBS‐4 M level, were calculated using the EXPLO5 computer code. Moreover, 1,3‐dinitroxy‐2‐oxapropane was synthesized and investigated. The various compounds were compared with each other and with the commonly used explosives in terms of their physicochemical properties and detonation behavior.
The effect of in vitro digestion on the interaction between polysaccharides derived from Pleurotus eryngii and intestinal mucus
Authors: Ma Sai , Li Xinyi , Tao Qi , Hu Qiuhui , Yang Wenjian , Kimatu Benard Muinde , Ma Gaoxing
Published: November 2023

Pleurotus eryngii polysaccharides (PEPs) have been proven to display multiple activities through digestive system action, from which the digestion products should first interact with intestinal mucus (MUC), followed by the function of intestinal cells. Hence, possible interacting characterizations between MUC and in vitro simulated digestion products of P. eryngii polysaccharides (DPEPs) and PEP were carried out in the present study. Results showed that both PEP and DPEP could significantly interact with MUC. Moreover, digestion can modify the interaction between polysaccharides and MUC; the degree of interaction also changes with time incrementing. Viscosity could be decreased after digesting. According to the zeta potential and stability analysis result, the digestive behavior could be regular and stable between polysaccharides and MUC interactions. Following fluorescence and infrared spectra, the structure of polysaccharides and mucin might be changed by digestion between polysaccharides and MUC. The study indicates that the interaction formed between DPEP and MUC might indirectly impact the exercise and immune activities of polysaccharides and influence the transportation of other nutrients. Overall, our results, the absorption and transport pathways of PEP, can be initially revealed and may provide a novel research viewpoint on the active mechanism of PEP in the intestinal tract.