bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the seismicity temporal variation for the current seismic hazard evaluation in Val d'Agri, Italy
Authors: Baskoutas I. , Papadopoulos G. A. , D'Alessandro A.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. This study examines the temporal variation of the seismicity in the Val d'Agri (Southern Italy) and adjacent areas, for the current seismic hazard evaluation. The temporal variation of the seismicity is expressed as time series of the number of earthquakes, the b value of the frequency magnitude distribution of Gutenberg-Richter relationship and the seismic energy released in the form of log E2/3. The analysis was performed by the means of a new research tool that includes visualizing techniques, which helps the interactive exploration and the interpretation of temporal variation changes. The obtained time series show a precursory seismicity pattern, characterized by low and high, probability periods, which preceded earthquakes of magnitude M ≥ 4.0. 75% of the examined cases were successfully correlated and 25 of them resulted false. The average duration of the low and the high probability periods is 10.6 and 13.8 months long respectively. These results indicate that the seismicity temporal variation monitoring in given area and the recognition of the low and high probability periods, can contribute to the evaluation, in regular monthly intervals, of the current status seismic hazard.
Estimation of flow velocity for a debris flow via the two-phase fluid model
Authors: Guo S. , Xu P. , Zheng Z. , Gao Y.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. The two-phase fluid model is applied in this study to calculate the steady velocity of a debris flow along a channel bed. By using the momentum equations of the solid and liquid phases in the debris flow together with an empirical formula to describe the interaction between two phases, the steady velocities of the solid and liquid phases are obtained theoretically. The comparison of those velocities obtained by the proposed method with the observed velocities of two real-world debris flows shows that the proposed method can estimate accurately the velocity for a debris flow.
Sources of 21st century regional sea-level rise along the coast of northwest Europe
Authors: Howard T. , Pardaens A. K. , Bamber J. L. , Ridley J. , Spada G. , Hurkmans R. T. W. L. , Lowe J. A. , Vaughan D.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. Changes in both global and regional mean sea level, and changes in the magnitude of extreme flood heights, are the result of a combination of several distinct contributions most, but not all, of which are associated with climate change. These contributions include effects in the solid earth, gravity field, changes in ocean mass due to ice loss from ice sheets and glaciers, thermal expansion, alterations in ocean circulation driven by climate change and changing freshwater fluxes, and the intensity of storm surges. Due to the diverse range of models required to simulate these systems, the contributions to sea-level change have usually been discussed in isolation rather than in one self-consistent assessment. Focusing on the coastline of northwest Europe, we consider all the processes mentioned above and their relative impact on 21st century regional mean sea levels and the 50-year return flood height. As far as possible our projections of change are derived from process-based models forced by the A1B emissions scenario to provide a self-consistent comparison of the contributions. We address uncertainty by considering both a mid-range and an illustrative high-end combination of the different components. For our mid-range ice loss scenario we find that thermal expansion of seawater is the dominant contributor to change in northwest European sea level by 2100. However, the projected contribution to extreme sea level, due to changes in storminess alone, is in some places significant and comparable to the global mean contribution of thermal expansion. For example, under the A1B emissions scenario, by 2100, change in storminess contributes around 15 cm to the increase in projected height of the 50-year storm surge on the west coast of the Jutland Peninsula, compared with a contribution of around 22 cm due to thermal expansion and a total of 58 cm from all of the contributions we consider. An illustrative combination of our high-end projections suggests increases in the 50-year return level of 86 cm at Sheerness, 95 cm at Roscoff, 106 cm at Esbjerg, and 67cm at Bergen. The notable regional differences between these locations arise primarily from differences in the rates of vertical land movement and changes in storminess.
Optimal locations of sea-level indicators in glacial isostatic adjustment investigations
Authors: Steffen H. , Wu P. , Wang H.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. Fréchet (sensitivity) kernels are an important tool in glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA) investigations to understand lithospheric thickness, mantle viscosity and ice-load model variations. These parameters influence the interpretation of geologic, geophysical and geodetic data, which contribute to our understanding of global change. We discuss global sensitivities of relative sea-level (RSL) data of the last 18 000 years. This also includes indicative RSL-like data (e.g., lake levels) on the continents far off the coasts. We present detailed sensitivity maps for four parameters important in GIA investigations (ice-load history, lithospheric thickness, background viscosity, lateral viscosity variations) for up to nine dedicated times. Assuming an accuracy of 2 m of RSL data of all ages (based on analysis of currently available data), we highlight areas around the world where, if the environmental conditions allowed its deposition and survival until today, RSL data of at least this accuracy may help to quantify the GIA modeling parameters above. The sensitivity to ice-load history variations is the dominating pattern covering almost the whole world before about 13 ka (calendar years before 1950). The other three parameters show distinct patterns, but are almost everywhere overlapped by the ice-load history pattern. The more recent the data are, the smaller the area of possible RSL locations that could provide enough information to a parameter. Such an area is mainly limited to the area of former glaciation, but we also note that when the accuracy of RSL data can be improved, e.g., from 2 m to 1 m, these areas become larger, allowing better inference of background viscosity and lateral heterogeneity. Although the patterns depend on the chosen models and error limit, our results are indicative enough to outline areas where one should look for helpful RSL data of a certain time period. Our results also indicate that as long as the ice-load history is not sufficiently known, the inference of lateral heterogeneities in mantle viscosity or lithospheric thickness will be interfered by the uncertainty of the ice model.
FRACTURE PHENOMENOLOGY AND TOUGHNESS OF FILLED NATURAL RUBBER COMPOUNDS VIA THE PURE SHEAR TEST SPECIMEN
Authors: Marano C. , Boggio M. , Cazzoni E. , Rink M.
Published: June 2014

Material anisotropy induced by strain in filled vulcanized rubbers strongly affects fracture toughness. The influence of carbon black content on fracture phenomenology and fracture toughness was investigated by performing video-recorded tests adopting a suitable grooved notched pure shear test specimen. In such a way, it was possible to analyze the so-called “knotty tearing” deformation mechanism occurring at the crack tip: sideways cracks perpendicular to the notch plane develop before the onset and propagation of a forward crack parallel to the notch plane. The J-integral fracture mechanics approach was adopted and digital image correlation analysis was performed to measure the strain at the crack tip. The presence of carbon black modifies the maximum chain extensibility and strain-induced crystallizability of the rubber matrix in the compound. The formation of sideways cracks occurred in all filled compounds and resulted in a link to the maximum chain extensibility. Nevertheless, toughness enhancement was observed only when strain-induced crystallization took place at the crack tip before the onset of the forward crack.
RECLAIMING OF GROUND RUBBER TIRE BY SAFE MULTIFUNCTIONAL RUBBER ADDITIVES: III. STYRENE BUTADIENE/RECLAIMED GROUND RUBBER TIRE VULCANIZATES
Authors: Mandal Swapan Kumar , Najib Alam M. D. , Roy Kumarjyoti , Debnath Subhas Chandra
Published: June 2014

Mechanochemically reclaimed ground rubber tire (GRT; i.e., reclaimed rubber [RR]) was revulcanized in combination with styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR). The SBR/RR blend vulcanizates with RR content from 20 to 80 wt% were prepared and studied. Reclaiming of GRT was successfully carried out by tetra benzyl thiuram disulfide in the presence of spindle oil at around ambient temperature. The cure characteristics and physical properties of the SBR/RR blend were studied. The optimum cure time decreased, but scorch time remain unaltered with increasing RR content in the blend. The effect of carbon black was studied in SBR/RR (80/20) blend vulcanizate to determine its ultimate use. Aging characteristics of different SBR/RR blends were evaluated. The thermogravimetric analysis, strain sweep, and dynamic mechanical analysis of SBR/RR blend vulcanizates were examined. The thermal stability of the blend vulcanizates was decreased with an increase in RR content. Strain sweep analysis was performed to determine the RR/SBR miscibility. Temperature sweep measurement indicated that the elastic and storage modulus of the SBR/RR vulcanizates improved with increasing RR content. Scanning electron microscopy analysis was performed to study the coherency and homogeneity in the SBR/RR vulcanizate.
STUDIES ON BOUND RUBBER OF CB BEFORE/AFTER VULCANIZATION OF ISOPRENE RUBBER
Authors: Kato Atsushi , Nishioka Maiko , Sato Yoshihiro , Nagano Etsuko , Yamashita Riko , Kimura Norihito , Taguchi Takehiko
Published: June 2014

The high abrasion furnace (HAF), fast extrusion furnace (FEF), and fine thermal (FT) loadings used in this study were adjusted to keep the carbon black (CB)–specific area of cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide adsorption to 2490 m2g−1. Their polyisoprene (IR) compounds and vulcanizates were investigated. Regarding the dependence of the CB gel fraction (FCB gel) on the IR gel/CB weight ratio (WRIR/CB), the amount of CB in the CB gel increased with a larger CB aggregate size, whereas the amount of the IR gel decreased. With regard to the dependence of the activation energy (ΔE(T2)) of the spin–spin relaxation time (T2) on the CB aggregate size, an immobilized rubber layer around CB formed more easily in the order of FT < FEF < HAF. Moreover, it became clear from the relationship between WRIR/CB and ΔE(T2) that the amount of the IR gel in the CB gel increased with decreasing ΔE(T2). The unique ratio of the surface area to the volume of CB aggregates (SCB/VCB) was obtained from results of three-dimensional transmission electron microscopy observation. The dependence of the amount of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) adsorption and compressed DBP adsorption on SCB/VCB was approximately linear, which suggested that SCB/VCB was closely related to CB aggregates and CB agglomerates. The linear relationship seen between SCB/VCB and ΔE(T2) revealed that an immobilized rubber layer was present around CB. The dependence of (qCB/qIR)(WRIR/CB) on SCB/VCB was also investigated using the densities (ρIR and ρCB) of IR and CB. The slope (tirl) of their approximately linear relationship was about 3.9 nm, which almost agreed with the bound rubber thickness reported in the literature to date. It is also inferred that because the intercept (α), which reflects the change in the IR gel weight fraction, was about 0.04 (4%), the IR gel weight fraction changed very little between before and after vulcanization.
The Impact of Wood, Cigarette and Marijuana Smoke on the Reproductive Health of Tandoor Occupants
Authors: Nabi Ghulam , Amin Muhammad , Urooj Jeena , Kamil Muhammad , Khan Ayaz Ali
Published: June 2014

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of wood, cigarette and marijuana smoke on the reproductive health of tandoor occupants. A total of 100 male individuals were selected (50 control and 50 tandoor occupants). A standard questionnaire was designed regarding their age, economic status, marital status, fuel type, exposure time (per day), use of mask, addiction and reproductive health. Morning blood samples of 5 mL of the size were taken from all participants. Serums were obtained and analyzed for total serum testosterone concentration. Bio-check (USA) kit was used according to the manufacturer protocol and procedures for testosterone analysis. In control group the mean ± SEM of total serum testosterone was 671.9 ± 20.02 ng/dl where as in tandoor occupants it was 542.7 ± 16.40 ng/dl. There was a significant reduction (P**** < 0.0001) in total serum testosterone concentration in tandoor occupants as compared to control group. Reproductive health problems like, low libido, erection problems, infertility, decreased frequency for shaving and absent morning and nocturnal erection were common in tandoor occupants as compared to control group. Wood, cigarette and marijuana smoke negatively affects testosterone concentration and lowers it significantly. This reduced testosterone concentration then produces ill effects like low libido, erection problems, infertility and absent morning and nocturnal erection.
NUMERICAL EXPERIMENTS FOR THE ESTIMATION OF MEAN DENSITIES OF RANDOM SETS
Authors: Camerlenghi Federico , Capasso Vincenzo , Villa Elena
Published: June 2014

Many real phenomena may be modelled as random closed sets in ℝd, of different Hausdorff dimensions. The problem of the estimation of pointwise mean densities of absolutely continuous, and spatially inhomogeneous, random sets with Hausdorff dimension n < d, has been the subject of extended mathematical analysis by the authors. In particular, two different kinds of estimators have been recently proposed, the first one is based on the notion of Minkowski content, the second one is a kernel-type estimator generalizing the well-known kernel density estimator for random variables. The specific aim of the present paper is to validate the theoretical results on statistical properties of those estimators by numerical experiments. We provide a set of simulations which illustrates their valuable properties via typical examples of lower dimensional random sets.
Un observatoire des pratiques enseignantes en maternelle : vers une typologie d’activités stimulant la parole de l’enfant
Authors: Romain Christina , Roubaud Marie-Noëlle
Published: June 2014

Cet article repose sur une analyse linguistique d’interactions verbales entre enseignant et élève(s) lors d’activités visant le développement du langage oral. Ces interactions ont été recueillies sous forme d’enregistrements vidéo pendant une période de cinq mois dans quatre classes, dont deux de maternelle. Le corpus a donné lieu à une transcription et à une analyse linguistique afin de répondre à ces questions :En quoi les activités mises en place par les enseignants sont-elles favorables au développement du langage oral chez l’enfant de 3 à 6 ans ? Quelles compétences communicationnelles et linguistiques sont travaillées à travers ces activités spécifiques ?Les résultats ont permis d’identifier les compétences visées par chaque activité et de souligner l’impact des interactions sur la construction du langage.
L’expérience d’élèves en difficulté en éducation physique et sportive : analyse d’une activité mise en souffrance
Authors: Magendie Élisabeth , Bouthier Daniel
Published: June 2014

Dans cet article, nous nous intéressons à des élèves en difficulté en éducation physique et sportive mais qui réussissent dans les autres disciplines. Nous cherchons à comprendre le sens de leur expérience en éducation physique et sportive, ainsi que le processus par lequel ils ont construit un rapport au savoir, source d’empêchement de leur activité d’apprentissage. Nous avons recouru à une analyse de l’activité réelle de deux élèves lors d’un cycle de volley-ball en nous référant à l’approche clinique de l’activité. Nos résultats montrent que l’activité de ces élèves en éducation physique et sportive est une activité mise en souffrance, interdisant leur développement. Les éléments explicatifs de cette expérience négative sont à chercher du côté des élèves, mais aussi du côté des pratiques enseignantes. Ils invitent à modifier le regard porté sur l’action éducative.
Oaths, Conscience, Contracts, and Laws—The Gathering Storm Confronting Medical Professionalism
Authors: Gabow Patricia A. , Wynia Matthew K.
Published: July 2024

This Viewpoint explains the 3 trends—personal conscience, employment contracts, and laws—that challenge physicians from putting their patients first and offers ways to reverse these barriers.
HLA‐DR–Expressing Fibroblast‐Like Synoviocytes Are Inducible Antigen Presenting Cells That Present Autoantigens in Lyme Arthritis
Authors: Rouse Joseph R. , Danner Rebecca , Wahhab Amanda , Pereckas Michaela , Nguyen Christine , McClune Mecaila E. , Steere Allen C. , Strle Klemen , Jutras Brandon L. , Lochhead Robert B.
Published: July 2024

Objective

HLA‐DR–expressing fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS) are a prominent cell type in synovial tissue in chronic inflammatory forms of arthritis. FLS‐derived extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, including fibronectin‐1 (FN1), contain immunogenic CD4+ T cell epitopes in patients with postinfectious Lyme arthritis (LA). However, the role of FLS in presentation of these T cell epitopes remains uncertain.

Methods

Primary LA FLS and primary murine FLS stimulated with interferon gamma (IFNγ), Borrelia burgdorferi, and/or B burgdorferi peptidoglycan (PG) were assessed for properties associated with antigen presentation. HLA‐DR–presented peptides from stimulated LA FLS were identified by immunopeptidomics analysis. OT‐II T cells were co‐cultured with stimulated murine FLS in the presence of cognate ovalbumin antigen to determine the potential of FLS to act as inducible antigen presenting cells (APCs).

Results

FLS expressed HLA‐DR molecules within inflamed synovial tissue and tendons from patients with postinfectious LA in situ. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II and co‐stimulatory molecules were expressed by FLS following in vitro stimulation with IFNγ and B burgdorferi and presented both foreign and self‐MHC‐II peptides, including an immunogenic T cell epitope derived from Lyme autoantigen FN1. Stimulated FLS induced proliferation of naive OT‐II CD4+ T cells that were dependent on OT‐II antigen and CD40. Stimulation with B burgdorferi PG enhanced FLS‐mediated T cell activation.

Conclusion

MHC‐II+ FLS are inducible APCs that can induce CD4+ T cell activation in an antigen‐ and CD40‐dependent manner. Activated FLS can also present ECM‐derived Lyme autoantigens, implicating FLS in amplifying tissue‐localized autoimmunity in LA.
Adapting Conductivity and Mechanical Properties through Layer Thickness Variation in Copper Niobium Laminated Metallic Composites
Authors: Kuglstatter Moritz , Nitschky Michael , Hartmann Anna , Kümmel Frank , Fecher Jonas , Felfer Peter , Höppel Heinz Werner , Göken Mathias
Published: July 2024

Cu/Nb laminated metallic composites (LMCs) exhibit extraordinary mechanical strength while electrical conductivity is maintained at a high level. In this research, Cu‐based LMCs with varying volume fraction of niobium are produced via accumulative roll bonding (ARB) and additionally cold‐rolled and heat‐treated to identify the role of these heterogeneous phase boundaries on the overall sheet properties. Deformation structures in these layered materials are studied through scanning transmission electron microscopy investigations. The existence of an interface‐affected zone at the phase boundaries and mechanical intermixing is attributed to decreasing electrical and increasing mechanical properties, especially in very thin layered LMCs. Atom probe tomography measurements show that mechanical alloying occurs due to severe plastic deformation during ARB processing of the laminates. An additional subsequent heat treatment leads to chemical demixing at the interfaces of the phase boundaries.
Tuning p‐Band Centers and Interfacial Built‐In Electric Field of Heterostructure Catalysts to Expedite Bidirectional Sulfur Redox for High‐Performance Li–S Batteries
Authors: Wang Xinying , Chen Li , Yu Yaojiang , Wang Wei , Yue Liguo , Shao Zhuhang , Wu Hao , Li Yunyong
Published: July 2024

Transition‐metal compound based heterostructures hold promise but challenge in expediting stepwise sulfur redox because of their inferior adsorption‐catalysis activity and unclear mechanism in Li–S batteries (LSBs). Herein, the p‐band centers and interfacial charge rearrangement of Mo‐doped VS2/MXene heterostructure are tuned through Mo doping and built‐in electric field (BIEF) effect to boost dual‐directional sulfur redox. Experimental and theoretical calculations demonstrate that Mo doping tunes the p‐band center of active S in VS2, shifting it positively toward the Fermi level to enhance the polysulfide adsorption ability and electrocatalytic activity. Whereas BIEF between Mo‐VS2 and MXene accelerates electrons transfer from MXene to Mo‐VS2 surface, generating more electrons accumulation at the surface‐S sites. Their synergy accelerates sulfur‐species conversion by reducing the energy barrier of polysulfide reduction and Li2S oxidation. Ultimately, S/Mo‐VS2/MXene cathode exhibits large initial capacity of 1387 mAh g−1at 0.2 C and stable 500‐cycle long‐term lifespan at 0.5 C. Impressively, the thick S/Mo‐VS2/MXene cathode (S loading: 5.4 mg cm−2, lean electrolyte: 4.5 µL mgsulfur−1) achieves a high areal capacity of 6.44 mAh cm−2 with 91.5% retention for 61 cycles. This work highlights the synergistic strategy of doping engineering and BIEF to tune the p‐band centers and interfacial charge rearrangement for designing high‐performance LSBs.
Liquid Springs for High‐Speed Contamination‐Free Manipulation of Droplets and Solid Particles
Authors: Zhao Haibo , Du Hewei , Deng Qiyu , Li Wei , Guo Mingliang , Zhang Yiyuan , Wang Liqiu , Yu Peng
Published: July 2024

Accurate and flexible control of droplets is essential in many industrial applications, such as water harvesting, chemical assays, and biological detection. Magnetic force‐based methods have been broadly exploited to fulfill the goals due to the advantage of non‐contact, easy control, and long‐range navigation. Nevertheless, it still suffers from some challenges, such as sample fouling, and the paradox between the droplet efficient motion and the large volume. Here a ferrofluid‐based liquid spring to achieve contamination‐free and fast droplet transportation on non‐wetting solid surfaces is proposed. The liquid spring is based on the actuation of a ferrofluid droplet in an external uniform magnetic field. The actuation enables the liquid spring to propel tiny objects, including the non‐magnetic miscible droplets and water‐repellent solid particles, with adjustable motion velocity. Furthermore, the magnetic force, applied on the ferrofluid via an additional permanent magnet, makes it possible to navigate the liquid spring in a programmable way. With the aid of the liquid spring, the single or multiple droplets/solid particles advancing, on‐demand droplets coalescence, and out‐of‐plane droplet motion are achievable.
Recent Advances in Biomacromolecule‐Reinforced 2D Material (2DM) Hydrogels: From Interactions, Synthesis, and Functionalization to Biomedical Applications
Authors: Gu Guanghui , Cui Zichen , Du Xiaofan , He Peng , Rong Chun , Tao Hao , Wei Gang , Xi Yongming
Published: July 2024

Regenerative biomedicine has emerged as a forefront area in medical research, heralding a new era of therapeutic strategies. This review delineates the integration of 2D materials (2DMs) within the area of biomedical engineering, leveraging their superior physicochemical attributes for enhance biomedical outcomes. The synergistic interaction between biomacromolecules and 2DMs is explored, demonstrating their potential to mitigate the limitations inherent to each while simultaneously augmenting their beneficial properties. In particular, incorporating 2DMs into hydrogels highlights their capability to enhance the mechanical strength of hydrogels, providing a biomimetic scaffold for tissue engineering regeneration and cancer diagnosis and therapy. An overview of the synthetic methodologies are provided for 2DMs, elucidating their interaction dynamics with biomacromolecules. The review primarily concentrates on the applications of biomacromolecule‐reinforced 2DM hydrogels across various biomedical fields, including bone tissue engineering, wound healing, neural tissue engineering, cardiac tissue engineering, as well as in the delivery of drugs and genes, cancer therapy, and biosensing technologies. Finally, the review discusses the existing challenges and future outlook for developing and using biomacromolecule‐reinforced 2DM hydrogels, underlining their transformative potential in regenerative medicine.
Deciphering Absolute O 2p Position as a Practical Descriptor for Strain‐Dependent Perovskite Nickelate Electrocatalysts
Authors: Jiang Chang , Chen Xinze , Zou Qingcheng , Zhao Kai , Yan Ning , Sun Jiahui , Zhang Zhen , Wu Meng , Huang Jijie , Fu Xianzhu , Alodhayb Abdullah N. , Sun Yifei
Published: July 2024

Developing effective descriptors for perovskite oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts is crucial for advancing clean energy technologies, which are often constrained by incomplete theoretical calculations. Herein, using step‐wise strained (−3–3%) NdNiO3 as a model, the density functional theory (DFT) is employed, considering both bulk superlattice model (B‐model) and surface slab models (S‐model) to garner a set of electronic descriptors. The S‐model‐derived metal─oxygen orbital hybridization is found to agree with the X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) results, which, however, are disentangled from the observed OER activity trend. Further detailed analysis discovers that the alignment of the calculated O 2p band position with the OER redox potential on an absolute scale can serve as a hitherto unexplored descriptor for comprehending the activity of lattice oxygen and its bonding strength to OH*. Combined DFT and XAS data reveals that excessive strain hinders surface oxygen exchange, slows down the rate‐determining step of OH* adsorption, and impairs the durability of the electrocatalyst by altering the random electron occupancy in frontier orbitals. The work sheds light on the rational design of cost‐effective, high‐performance perovskite‐based electrocatalysts.
Europium‐Based Metal–Organic Framework with N─H···π Interaction and Intramolecular Energy Transfer Mechanisms for Self‐Electrochemiluminescence
Authors: Zhao Lu , Ren Xiang , Du Yu , Gao Zhongfeng , Ma Hongmin , Wang Huan , Li Yuyang , Wei Qin , Ju Huangxian , Wu Dan
Published: July 2024

This work proposes a europium‐based metal–organic framework ([Eu2(HNCP)4Cl4(H2O)2]n, named ZL‐1), featuring dinuclear Eu2(COO)2 clusters as connecting nodes, linked by benzimidazolyl tridentate ligand 2‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐imidazo[4,5‐f]‐1,10‐phenanthroline (HNCP) for efficient self‐electrochemiluminescence (self‐ECL). The cathodic ECL emission shows two peaks with a maximum intensity of 7500 a.u.at 0 ∼ −1.8 V in pH 9.0 phosphated buffered solution (PBS) without extra coreactant. The cleavage of N─H bond in benzimidazolyl group can occur under alkaline conditions to generate neutral radical ZL‐1•. After applying voltage, the ZL‐1 can be reduced twice to form ZL‐1Re1•− and ZL‐1Re2•−. Then, ZL‐1Re1•− and ZL‐1Re2•− react with ZL‐1•, accompanied by transferring energy from HNCP to central Eu3+ to produce excited ZL‐1Re1* and ZL‐1Re2* for ECL1 and ECL2 emissions. The local excitation in the HNCP unit is demonstrated with cyclic voltammetry (CV) and stepping pulse ECL. The stimulated and luminous species are confirmed by density functional theory calculations and ECL spectra. This design approach of self‐ECL materials, which coordinated functional ligands with lanthanide metal ions as 3D‐structured MOF, broadened the applications of ECL systems to loose conditions and facilitated mechanistic exploration of ECL processes.
Eosinophils Respond to Extracellular Matrix Treated Muscle Injuries but are Not Required for Macrophage Polarization
Authors: Lokwani Ravi , Fertil Daphna , Hartigan Devon R. , Josyula Aditya , Ngo Tran B. , Sadtler Kaitlyn
Published: July 2024

The immune response to decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) muscle injury is characterized by Th2 T cells, Tregs, M2‐like macrophages, and an abundance of eosinophils. Eosinophils have previously been described as mediators of muscle regeneration but inhibit skin wound healing. In addition to response to wounding, a large number of eosinophils respond to biomaterial‐treated muscle injury, specifically in response to decellularized ECM. ECM treatment of muscle wounds has been associated with positive outcomes in tissue regeneration, but the detailed mechanisms of action are still being evaluated. Here, this work investigates the role of these eosinophils in terms of their immunologic phenotype and subsequent effect on the local tissue microenvironment. These cells have a mixed phenotype showing both type‐2 and regulatory gene upregulation and but are not required for macrophage polarization. Beyond the local tissue, ECM treatment is seen to induce a transient flux of eosinophils to the lungs but prevented a trauma‐associated neutrophilia in the lungs of injured mice. This work believes this local and systemic immunomodulation contributes to the regenerative effects of the material and such distal tissue effects should be considered in therapeutic design and implementation.
Advancements of Porphyrin‐Derived Nanomaterials for Antibacterial Photodynamic Therapy and Biofilm Eradication
Authors: Chen Suwen , Huang Baoxuan , Tian Jia , Zhang Weian
Published: July 2024

The threat posed by antibiotic‐resistant bacteria and the challenge of biofilm formation has highlighted the inadequacies of conventional antibacterial therapies, leading to increased interest in antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) in recent years. This approach offers advantages such as minimal invasiveness, low systemic toxicity, and notable effectiveness against drug‐resistant bacterial strains. Porphyrins and their derivatives, known for their high molar extinction coefficients and singlet oxygen quantum yields, have emerged as crucial photosensitizers in aPDT. However, their practical application is hindered by challenges such as poor water solubility and aggregation‐induced quenching. To address these limitations, extensive research has focused on the development of porphyrin‐based nanomaterials for aPDT, enhancing the efficacy of photodynamic sterilization and broadening the range of antimicrobial activity. This review provides an overview of various porphyrin‐based nanomaterials utilized in aPDT and biofilm eradication in recent years, including porphyrin‐loaded inorganic nanoparticles, porphyrin‐based polymer assemblies, supramolecular assemblies, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), and covalent organic frameworks (COFs). Additionally, insights into the prospects of aPDT is offered, highlighting its potential for practical implementation.
Jellyfish‐Inspired Artificial Spider Silk for Luminous Surgical Sutures
Authors: Wen Kai , Zhang Chao , Zhang Guanghao , Wang Meilin , Mei Guangkai , Zhang Zhenzhen , Zhao Weiqiang , Guo Wenjin , Zhou Qiang , Liu Enzhao , Zhu Yutian , Bai Jie , Zhu Meifang , Wang Wei , Liu Zunfeng , Zhou Xiang
Published: July 2024

The development of functional surgical sutures with excellent mechanical properties, good fluorescence, and high cytocompatibility is highly required in the field of medical surgeries. Achieving fibers that simultaneously exhibit high mechanical robustness, good spinnability, and durable fluorescence emission has remained challenging up to now. Taking inspiration from the spinning process of spider silk and the luminescence mechanism of jellyfish, this work reports a luminous artificial spider silk prepared with the aim of balancing the fiber spinnability and mechanical robustness. This is realized by employing highly hydrated segments with aggregation‐induced luminescence for enhancing the fiber spinnability and polyhydroxyl segments for increasing the fiber mechanical robustness. Twist insertion during fiber spinning improves the fiber strength, toughness, and fluorescence emission. Furthermore, coating the fiber with an additional polymer layer results in a “sheath–core” architecture with improved mechanical properties and capacity to withstand water. This work provides a new design strategy for performing luminescent and robust surgical sutures.
Soft, Tough, Antifatigue Fracture Elastomer Composites with Low Thermal Resistance through Synergistic Crack Pinning and Interfacial Slippage
Authors: Wu Weijian , Fan Jianfeng , Zeng Chen , Cheng Xiaxia , Liu Xiaowei , Guo Shifeng , Sun Rong , Ren Linlin , Hao Zhifeng , Zeng Xiaoliang
Published: July 2024

Soft elastomer composites are promising functional materials for engineer interfaces, where the miniaturized electronic devices have triggered increasing demand for effective heat dissipation, high fracture energy, and antifatigue fracture. However, such a combination of these properties can be rarely met in the same elastomer composites simultaneously. Here a strategy is presented to fabricate a soft, extreme fracture tough (3316 J m−2) and antifatigue fracture (1052.56 J m⁻2) polydimethylsiloxane/aluminum elastomer composite. These outstanding properties are achieved by optimizing the dangling chains and spherical aluminum fillers, resulting in the combined effects of crack pinning and interfacial slippage. The dangling chains that lengthen the polymer chains between cross‐linked points pin the cracks and the rigid fillers obstruct the cracks, enhancing the energy per unit area needed for fatigue failure. The dangling chains also promote polymer/filler interfacial slippage, enabling effective deflection and blunting of an advancing crack tip, thus enhancing mechanical energy dissipation. Moreover, the elastomer composite exhibits low thermal resistance (≈0.12 K cm2 W−1), due to the formation of a thermally conductive network. These remarkable characteristics render this elastomer composite promising for application as a thermal interface material in electronic devices.
Manipulation of Oxidation States on Phase Boundary via Surface Layer Modification for Enhanced Alkaline Hydrogen Electrocatalysis
Authors: Huang Huawei , Xu Liangliang , Zuo Shouwei , Song Lu , Zou Chen , García‐Melchor Max , Li Yang , Ren Yuafu , Rueping Magnus , Zhang Huabin
Published: July 2024

In alkaline water electrolysis and anion exchange membrane water electrolysis technologies, the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at the cathode is significantly constrained by a high energy barrier during the water dissociation step. This study employs a phase engineering strategy to construct heterostructures composed of crystalline Ni4W and amorphous WOx aiming to enhance catalytic performance in the HER under alkaline conditions. This work systematically modulates the oxidation states of W within the amorphous WOx of the heterostructure to adjust the electronic states of the phase boundary, the energy barriers associated with the water dissociation step, and the adsorption/desorption properties of intermediates during the alkaline HER process. The optimized catalyst, Ni4W/WOx‐2, with a quasi‐metallic state of W coordinated by a low oxygen content in amorphous WOx, demonstrates exceptional catalytic performance (22 mV@10 mA cm−2), outperforming commercial Pt/C (30 mV@10 mA cm−2). Furthermore, the operando X‐ray absorption spectroscopy analysis and theoretical calculations reveal that the optimized W atoms in amorphous WOx serve as active sites for water dissociation and the nearby Ni atoms in crystalline Ni4W facilitated the release of H2. These findings provide valuable insights into designing efficient heterostructured materials for energy conversion.
Extracting Geometry and Topology of Orange Pericarps for the Design of Bioinspired Energy Absorbing Materials
Authors: Fox Chelsea , Chen Kyle , Antonini Micaela , Magrini Tommaso , Daraio Chiara
Published: July 2024

As a result of evolution, many biological materials have developed irregular structures that lead to outstanding mechanical performances, like high stiffness‐to‐weight ratios and good energy absorption. However, reproducing these irregular biological structures in synthetic materials remains a complex design and fabrication challenge. Here, a bioinspired material design method is presented that characterizes the irregular structure as a network of building blocks, also known as tiles, and rules to connect them. Rather than replicating the biological structure one‐to‐one, synthetic materials are generated with the same distributions of tiles and connectivity rules as the biological material and it is shown that these equivalent materials have structure‐to‐property relationships similar to the biological ones. To demonstrate the method, the pericarp of the orange, a member of the citrus family known for its protective, energy‐absorbing capabilities is studied. Polymer samples are generated and characterized under quasistatic and dynamic compression and display spatially‐varying stiffness and good energy absorption, as seen in the biological materials. By quantifying which tiles and connectivity rules locally deform in response to loading, it is also determined how to spatially control the stiffness and energy absorption.
Rational Design of Earth‐Abundant Catalysts toward Sustainability
Authors: Guo Jinyang , Haghshenas Yousof , Jiao Yiran , Kumar Priyank , Yakobson Boris I. , Roy Ajit , Jiao Yan , Regenauer‐Lieb Klaus , Nguyen David , Xia Zhenhai
Published: July 2024

Catalysis is crucial for clean energy, green chemistry, and environmental remediation, but traditional methods rely on expensive and scarce precious metals. This review addresses this challenge by highlighting the promise of earth‐abundant catalysts and the recent advancements in their rational design. Innovative strategies such as physics‐inspired descriptors, high‐throughput computational techniques, and artificial intelligence (AI)‐assisted design with machine learning (ML) are explored, moving beyond time‐consuming trial‐and‐error approaches. Additionally, biomimicry, inspired by efficient enzymes in nature, offers valuable insights. This review systematically analyses these design strategies, providing a roadmap for developing high‐performance catalysts from abundant elements. Clean energy applications (water splitting, fuel cells, batteries) and green chemistry (ammonia synthesis, CO2 reduction) are targeted while delving into the fundamental principles, biomimetic approaches, and current challenges in this field. The way to a more sustainable future is paved by overcoming catalyst scarcity through rational design.
Ring Finger Protein 217 Inhibits Ovarian Cancer Progression by Down‐Regulating HAX1 Expression
Authors: Zhou Lili , Liu Junbo , Zhou Min , Xu Lan
Published: July 2024

Ring finger protein 217 (RNF217) has been found to interact with the antiapoptotic protein HS‐1‐associated protein X‐1 (HAX‐1) in myeloid leukemia cells. However, the understanding of RNF217 in ovarian cancer progression remains limited. The relative expression of RNF217 is screened in ovarian cancer using the GEPIA database and calculated its correlation with MKI67, CCNB1, and CDK4. OVCAR‐3 and SK‐OV‐3 cells are transfected with RNF217‐overexpression plasmids. Cell‐counting kit‐8 assay is utilized to assess proliferation. Immunoprecipitation is performed to reveal the interaction between RNF217 and HAX‐1, and a cycloheximide chase assay is performed to analyze HAX‐1 degradation. The GEPIA database indicated down‐regulated expression of RNF217 in ovarian cancer, negatively correlated with MKI67 (R = ‐0.26, P = 1.8e‐09), CCNB1 (R = ‐0.37, P = 3.2e‐18), and CDK4 expression (R = ‐0.24, P = 3.4e‐08). RNF217 overexpression down‐regulated the relative expression of MKI67, CCNB1, and CDK4 in OVCAR‐3 and SK‐OV‐3 cells, resulting in diminished proliferation. In vivo studies using OVCAR‐3 and SK‐OV‐3 cell line‐derived xenograft models also showed that RNF217 overexpression reduced ovarian cancer volume and weight. Furthermore, RNF217 overexpression in SK‐OV‐3 cells inhibited the protein expression of HAX1 by reducing its stability. In conclusion, RNF217 inhibits ovarian cancer progression by down‐regulating HS‐1‐associated protein X‐1 expression.
Parity‐Frequency‐Space Elastic Spin Control of Wave Routing in Topological Phononic Circuits
Authors: Huang Yao , Yang Chenwen , Yuan Weitao , Zhang Yuxuan , Pan Yongdong , Yang Fan , Zhong Zheng , Zhao Jinfeng , Wright Oliver B. , Ren Jie
Published: July 2024

Topological phononic cavities, such as ring resonators with topological whispering gallery modes (TWGMs), offer a flexible platform for the realization of robust phononic circuits. However, the chiral mechanism governing TWGMs and their selective routing in integrated phononic circuits remain unclear. This work reveals, both experimentally and theoretically, that at a phononic topological interface, the elastic spin texture is intricately linked to, and can be explained through a knowledge of, the phonon eigenmodes inside each unit cell. Furthermore, for paired, counterpropagating TWGMs based on such interfaces in a waveguide resonator, this study demonstrates that the elastic spin exhibits locking at discrete frequencies. Backed up by theory, experiments on kHz TWGMs in thin honeycomb‐lattice aluminum plates bored with clover‐leaf shaped holes show that together with this spin‐texture related angular‐momentum locking mechanism at a single topological interface, there are triplicate parity‐frequency‐space selective wave routing mechanisms. In the future, these mechanisms can be harnessed for the versatile manipulation of elastic‐spin based routing in phononic topological insulators.
Functional Separators for Modulating Li‐Ion Flux Toward Uniform Li Deposition: A Review
Authors: Ji Yuanpeng , Yang Chunhui , Han Jiecai , He Weidong
Published: July 2024

Homogeneous Li‐ion flux is a significant precondition of uniform Li‐ion deposition in Li metal batteries (LMBs). Numerous methodologies have been presented for homogenizing Li‐ion flux before Li deposition based on the features of Li‐ion deposition. Separators that provide Li‐ion transfer channels and are directly exposed to Li metal anodes have attracted rising attention for their role in guiding regular Li‐ion distribution. More novel functional separators have been proposed aiming to achieve dendrite‐free deposition. Herein, the factors and strategies that regulate Li‐ion distribution through functional separators toward LMBs are concentrated on. The current mechanisms of Li‐ion flux regulation by functional separators are first highlighted, including physical properties, interactions with the electrolyte, and modification of the solid‐state electrolyte interphase. According to these mechanisms, functional separator strategies for regulating Li‐ion flux are divided into three methodologies, and typical examples are introduced. Finally, current limitations and suggestions for future functional separator studies are presented, aiming to inspire engaged researchers and newcomers to trigger more exciting works in this area.
Beyond Cation Disorder: Site Symmetry‐Tuned Optoelectronic Properties of the Ternary Nitride Photoabsorber ZrTaN3
Authors: Sirotti Elise , Wagner Laura I. , Jiang Chang‐Ming , Eichhorn Johanna , Munnik Frans , Streibel Verena , Schilcher Maximilian J. , März Benjamin , Hegner Franziska S. , Kuhl Matthias , Höldrich Theresa , Müller‐Caspary Knut , Egger David A. , Sharp Ian D.
Published: July 2024

Ternary nitrides are rapidly emerging as promising compounds for optoelectronic and energy conversion applications, yet comparatively little of this vast composition space has been explored. Furthermore, the crystal structures of these compounds can exhibit a significant amount of disorder, the consequences of which are not yet well understood. Here, the deposition of bixbyite‐type ZrTaN3 thin films is demonstrated by reactive magnetron co‐sputtering and observed semiconducting character, with a strong optical absorption onset at 1.8 eV and significant photoactivity, with prospective application as functional photoanodes. It is found that Wyckoff‐site occupancy of cations is a critical factor in determining these beneficial optoelectronic properties. First‐principles calculations show that cation disorder leads to minor deviations in the total energy but modulates the bandgap by 0.5 eV, changing orbital hybridization of valence and conduction band states. In addition to demonstrating that ZrTaN3 is a promising visible light‐absorbing semiconductor and active photoanode material, the findings provide important insights regarding the role of cation ordering on the electronic structure of ternary semiconductors. In particular, it is shown that not only cation order, but also the cationic Wyckoff site occupancy has a substantial impact on key optoelectronic properties, which can guide future design and synthesis of advanced semiconductors.
Observational Constraints on the Parameters of Hořava–Lifshitz Gravity
Authors: Chaudhary Himanshu , Debnath Ujjal , Pacif Shibesh Kumar Jas , Molla Niyaz Uddin , Mustafa Ghulam , Maurya Sunil Kumar
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the accelerated cosmic expansion within the Hořava–Lifshitz (HL) Model. To constrain the cosmological parameters of this model, 17 Baryon Acoustic Oscillation points, 31 Cosmic Chronometer points, 40 Type Ia Supernovae points, 24 quasar Hubble diagram points, and 162 Gamma Ray Bursts points, along with the latest Hubble constant measurement (R22) are incorporated. is treated as a free parameter to extract and using late‐time datasets, aiming for optimal fitting values in each model. Treating as free improves precision, reduces bias, and enhances dataset compatibility. The obtained values of and are compared to the model, showing consistency with previous estimates from Planck and SDSS studies. The Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) favor the Hořava–Lifshitz model, with the model having the lowest AIC. Additionally, and analyses are conducted to assess model preference. Validation using the reduced statistic indicates satisfactory fits for the Hořava–Lifshitz model, while recognizing as the preferred model. Extensions of the analysis warrant further investigation.
Dual‐Gradient Concentration Distribution in Sb−Cu Alloy Nanoarrays for Robust Sodium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Li Xinyan , Li Chao , Zhang Xin , Sun Jianguo , Liu Ximeng , Song Kepeng , Han Jiuhui , Wang John , Song Chen Jun
Published: July 2024

Alloy‐type materials are attractive for anodes in sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) owing to their high theoretical capacities and overall performance. However, the accumulation of stress/strain during repeated cycling results in electrode pulverization, leading to rapid capacity decay and eventual disintegration, thus hindering their practical applications. Herein, we report a 3D coral‐like Sb−Cu alloy nanoarray with gradient distribution of both elements. The array features a Sb‐rich bottom and a Cu‐rich top with increasing Sb and decreasing Cu concentrations from top to bottom. The former is the active component that provides the high capacity, whereas the latter serves as an inert additive that acts against volume variation. The gradual transition in composition within the electrode introduces a ladder‐type volume expansion effect, facilitating a smooth distribution and effective release of stress, thereby ensuring the wanted mechanical stability and structural integrity. The as‐developed nanoarray affords a high reversible capacity (460 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C), stable cycling (89 % retention over 120 cycles at 1.0 C), and superior rate capability (354 mAh g−1 at 10 C). The concentration dual‐gradient strategy paves a new pathway of designing alloy‐type materials for

SIBs.