bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Efficient Airline Re-Fleeting Model for the Incremental Modification of Planned Fleet Assignments
Authors: Jarrah Ahmad I. , Goodstein Jon , Narasimhan Ram
Published: April 2003

Airlines typically manage their annual business cycle by subdividing the year into a sequence of scheduling periods that span about a month each. Fleet assignment represents an important step in the planning process for each new scheduling period and is usually undertaken using computer-based optimization models. Once an initial fleet assignment solution is achieved and before “freezing” the assignments, planners spend significant effort in analyzing, modifying, and committing the individual components of the solution throughout the flight network. This manual step results in local modifications to the initial solution, and is necessary to reflect business judgment calls that cannot be captured by the optimization model. In addition, planners find it imperative to modify the initial fleet assignment solution to react to inevitable changes to the planning environment related to the planned schedule, demand forecast, number of available aircraft, crew staffing levels, and a host of other scheduling constraints. The above-described process of incrementally fine-tuning and modifying the initial fleet assignment solution is referred to as re-fleeting. It is characterized by (1) the requirement of quick solution time to allow frequent re-fleeting exercises, (2) the need for multiple alternative high-quality solutions to choose from, and (3) the constraint that the new solution differs from the prior one in a controlled and limited fashion. We demonstrate in this paper that global fleet assignment model formulations can be used to address the re-fleeting problem in an effective fashion.
A Hybrid Tabu Search/Branch-and-Bound Algorithm for the Direct Flight Network Design Problem
Authors: Büdenbender Klaus , Grünert Tore , Sebastian Hans-Jürgen
Published: April 2003

This paper introduces a network design problem with a structure that is encountered in many transportation processes. The general organization of these systems is as follows. Freight has to be transported between a large number of origins and destinations. To consolidate the freight, it is first shipped to a terminal. Next, it is transported directly to a terminal where it is re-loaded and shipped to its destination. The task is to decide which terminals have to be used and how the freight is transported among the terminals. We describe an application where the terminals are airports and the freight is letter mail. Here, the transportation between terminals is by air, which is required due to temporal constraints. The economical impact of these decisions is huge because air transportation is costly and the process is repeated every night. We show how the problem can be modeled as a capacitated warehouse location problem with side constraints and propose a hybrid Tabu Search/Branch-and-Bound algorithm, which solves large real-world instances with acceptable computation times.
Exploiting the Opportunities of Collaborative Decision Making: A Model and Efficient Solution Algorithm for Airline Use
Authors: Carlson Paul M.
Published: April 2003

Collaborative decision making (CDM) is a joint Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)/industry initiative aimed at improving traffic flow management when inclement weather reduces an airport's arrival capacity. CDM replaces the present Ground Delay Program and is expected to be fully implemented by or around the year 2000. Under CDM, during periods of undersupply, the FAA's role shifts from centralized decision-maker to information gatherer and resource arbiter. Filling the decision-making void are the airlines, now given the freedom to make rescheduling decisions according to their own priorities and objectives. In this paper, we present an integer model and a real-time solution algorithm that assist an airline in making these rescheduling decisions at its hub airport, the location with the largest number of operations and therefore the greatest opportunity for improvement. Our research improves the existing state-of-the-art by representing the real world more thoroughly and intuitively than existing models (a modeling contribution) and by exploiting the structure of our model to achieve optimal solutions to large-scale scenarios in real time (an algorithmic contribution). Furthermore, we present four different formulations of the model. Although the different formulations are equivalent in that they have identical integer feasible solution sets and optimal objective function values, they exhibit widely-varying optimization times when tested on large-scale scenarios, allowing us to compare the characteristics and desirability of the alternative formulation techniques.
From Ground Holding to Free Flight: An Exact Approach
Authors: Andreatta Giovanni , Brunetta Lorenzo , Guastalla Guglielmo
Published: April 2003

Congestion in air traffic networks is a serious problem and has received a lot of attention both from the aviation authorities (Federal Aviation Administration, Eurocontrol, etc.) and from the scientific research community. In past years, one way of reducing the amount of congestion has been the adoption of ground holding policies, i.e., a ground hold is imposed to selected aircraft, prior to their departure, so that congestion may be smoothed away. Many airlines in the United States have been complaining about these policies and are pushing toward the new concept of “free flight,” where the airlines are almost “free” to choose for each of their flights, when to depart, which route to follow, at what speed, etc., as long as the arrival at the destination airport matches a given time, decided by a central authority (the Federal Aviation Administration in the United States). In this new perspective, to avoid congestion, or at least to reduce it, the central authority has to schedule the arrival times of all flights, with possible delays for some of them. In this paper, we describe an exact algorithm, based on the integration of a heuristic algorithm with an integer linear programming model. This approach provides exact solutions in a much shorter computation time than previous algorithms proposed in the literature. We will report on our computational experiences using large instances based on actual Official Airline Guide data for the United States air traffic network.
On the Existence of Solutions to the Dynamic User Equilibrium Problem
Authors: Zhu Daoli , Marcotte Patrice
Published: April 2003

This paper is concerned with the existence of solutions to a dynamic network equilibrium problem modeled as an infinite dimensional variational inequality. Our results are based on properties of operators that map path flow departure rates to consistent time-dependent path flows and other link performance functions. The existence result requires the introduction of a novel concept that strengthens the familiar concept of First-In-First-Out (FIFO).
Random Queues in Signalized Road Networks
Authors: Tarko Andrzej P.
Published: April 2003

Average delay is an important criterion of evaluating traffic signals. Traffic signals, stream merges, and stream splits influence vehicular delay in signalized networks through influencing random fluctuation of traffic. This paper proposes a method of estimating the random component of queues and delays at signalized intersections inside a network of urban streets. Equations describing the effect of signals and traffic merging and splitting are derived, as well as a comprehensive equation combining the considered effects. Fixed speeds and capacities are assumed. The derived comprehensive equation is used to discuss certain cases of signalized streets. The equation is evaluated using the Monte Carlo technique. The proposed method can be incorporated into existing procedures for evaluating and optimizing traffic signals.
Diversion Issues in Real-Time Vehicle Dispatching
Authors: Ichoua Soumia , Gendreau Michel , Potvin Jean-Yves
Published: April 2003

Recent technological advances in communication systems now allow the exploitation of realtime information for dynamic vehicle routing and scheduling. It is possible, in particular, to consider diverting a vehicle away from its current destination in response to a new customer request. In this paper, a strategy for assigning customer requests, which includes diversion, is proposed, and various issues related to it are presented. An empirical evaluation of the proposed approach is performed within a previously reported tabu search heuristic. Simulations compare the tabu search heuristic, with and without the new strategy, on a dynamic problem motivated from a courier service application. The results demonstrate the potential savings that can be obtained through the application of the proposed approach.
Inclusiveness and crossed categorization: Effects on co‐joined category evaluations of in‐group and out‐group primes
Authors: Crisp Richard J. , Hewstone Miles , Richards Zoë , Paolini Stefania
Published: April 2003

This experiment builds on preliminary work (Crisp & Hewstone, 2000b) that revealed moderation of crossed‐category evaluations via priming with an in‐group inclusive pronoun (e.g. ‘we’). Using a computerized minimal group classification procedure and a ‘proofreading’ priming task, participants were asked to evaluate different crossed‐category groups following either a neutral, an inclusive (in‐group), or an exclusive (out‐group) prime. The results supported the notion that inclusiveness priming can moderate how perceivers represent and evaluate composite social groups. In addition, measures of perceived inclusiveness and importance suggested that such structural aspects of social categories are an important consideration for future multiple categorization work.
Happy mood decreases self‐focused attention
Authors: Green Jeffrey D. , Sedikides Constantine , Saltzberg Judith A. , Wood Joanne V. , Forzano Lori‐Ann B.
Published: April 2003

Research addressing the influence of happy mood on self‐focused attention has yielded inconsistent results. Some studies found that happy mood decreased self‐focus relative to sad mood. Other studies did not detect a significant difference between happy and neutral mood, and still other studies found that happy mood, relative to neutral mood, increased self‐focus. These investigations have potential shortcomings, such as an insufficiently powerful happy mood induction and a confound between visualization mood inductions and self‐focus itself. The present experiment addressed these shortcomings by inducing mood via musical selections, equalizing the approximate potency between happy and sad moods, and using a within‐participants design. Relative to neutral mood, happy mood decreased self‐focused attention.
Sexual and physical abuse during childhood and adulthood as predictors of hallucinations, delusions and thought disorder
Authors: Read John , Agar Kirsty , Argyle Nick , Aderhold Volkmar
Published: April 2003

In light of recent studies indicating a relationship between child abuse and the positive symptoms of schizophrenia, this study investigated the hypotheses that childhood sexual and physical abuse are related to hallucinations, delusions, and thought disorder in adults, and that those relationships are greater in those who have suffered abuse during adulthood as well as childhood. In 200 community mental‐health‐centre clients, the clinically evaluated symptomatology of the 92 clients whose files documented sexual or physical abuse at some point in their lives was compared with that of the 108 for whom no abuse was documented. In the 60 patients for whom child abuse was documented, hallucinations (including all six subtypes), but not delusions, thought disorder or negative symptoms, were significantly more common than in the non‐abused group. Adult sexual assault was related to hallucinations, delusions, and thought disorder. In linear regression analysis, a combination of child abuse and adult abuse predicted hallucinations, delusions, and thought disorder. However, child abuse was a significant predictor of auditory and tactile hallucinations, even in the absence of adult abuse. Possible psychological and neurobiological pathways from abuse to symptoms are discussed, along with research and clinical implications.
The flavour of emotions
Authors: Tantam Digby
Published: April 2003

Emotions in psychotherapy are considered in the light of contemporary emotion theory, of neuroimaging, of narratives about emotion, and in relation to emotional disorder. One difficulty in comparing these different theories is that the term “emotion” is itself used differently. According to some theories, emotions are discrete conscious experiences, but according to others, a person may have and be influenced by emotions of which they are not aware. “Unconscious” emotions are of particular interest to the psychotherapist. The wide range of happenings that are associated with them are considered, and a general term proposed for them—“emotor”. The main point of the paper is to establish that emotors may have an emotional flavour which is capable of inducing an emotion in a person who experiences the emotor, and that this is not the same process as a person reacting emotionally to an emotor. Emotors may acquire their emotional flavour, and their capacity to induce emotions, independent of a subject experiencing the emotion. This, it is argued, is one reason why we may experience emotions not just as reactions, but as given to us by the world. It may also be an explanation for some aesthetic or religious feelings being experienced as both transcendent and real.
Children who speak of past‐life experiences: Is there a psychological explanation?
Authors: Haraldsson Erlendur
Published: April 2003

Children who claim to remember fragments of a past life are found in some countries. Various explanations have been put forward as to why the alleged memories develop, ranging from reincarnation to ‘therapeutic resource’. This study puts to the test the role of some psychological characteristics and the circumstances in which the children live, such as fantasy, suggestibility, social isolation, dissociation, and attention‐seeking. Thirty children in Lebanon who had persistently spoken of past‐life memories, and 30 comparison children, were administered relevant tests and questionnaires. The target group obtained higher scores for daydreaming, attention‐seeking, and dissociation, but not for social isolation and suggestibility. The level of dissociation was much lower than in cases of multiple personality and not clinically relevant. There was some evidence of post‐traumatic stress disorder‐like symptoms. Eighty per cent of the children spoke of past‐life memories of circumstances leading to a violent death (mostly accidents, also war‐related deaths and murder). It is discussed if this imagery—when experienced repeatedly—may serve as a stressor.
Cognition in pregnancy and the first year post‐partum
Authors: Crawley R. A. , Dennison K. , Carter C.
Published: April 2003

A longitudinal study measured the performance of a group of 15 pregnant women on tests of verbal memory, divided attention, and focused attention on four occasions (second trimester, third trimester, 6 weeks post‐partum, and 1 year post‐partum) while at the same time obtaining self‐assessment ratings of these cognitive functions. A group of 14 non‐pregnant women was studied at equivalent intervals. The two groups of women did not differ in performance on the objective tests, and there was no change in performance over time except for an improvement in the measure of focused attention from the first to the final testing occasion. However, the self‐assessment ratings showed that in the second trimester, the pregnant women rated themselves as more impaired than before compared with the non‐pregnant women for all three cognitive abilities. To ensure that this difference was not due to the retrospective nature of the comparison of current with previous cognitive ability, a second longitudinal study compared 25 pregnant and 10 non‐pregnant women using daily ratings over a period of 1 week on four occasions during pregnancy and the first year post‐partum. Women in the third trimester of pregnancy reported mild impairments in their focused and divided attention ability and their ability to remember what they had read compared with the non‐pregnant women. The results show that there are perceived cognitive impairments during pregnancy. It is suggested that these may be the result of mild impairments which are not revealed in objective tests because they can be overcome by conscious effort in short periods of testing. Alternatively, the perceptions may not be based on actual impairments but may result from depressed mood or expectations concerning the effect of pregnancy on cognition.
What is the prevalence of narcissistic injury among trainee counselling psychologists?
Authors: Halewood Andrea , Tribe Rachel
Published: April 2003

The purpose of this study was to ascertain the level of narcissistic injury among trainee counselling psychologists using the Narcissistic Injury Scale (Slyter, 1991). This 38‐item Likert scale is based on Miller's (1981) definition of narcissistic injury; a specific type of psychological damage which focuses on feelings about the self and past relationships related to self‐development. Theorists suggest that if untreated, narcissistic issues can interfere with client work and lead to a number of problems for trainees, influencing drop‐out rates and increasing burnout. The results of the study indicate that a high degree of narcissistic injury may be prevalent among trainee counselling psychologists and furthermore, that narcissistic injury does seem to be related to the quality of the perceived parent‐child relationship. Consequently, the study suggests that therapeutic work could be affected in those trainees who fail to address their own narcissism. The study provides some tentative support for the utility of the Narcissistic Injury Scale.
Expanding CWD disease surveillance options using environmental contamination at deer signposts
Authors: Huang Miranda H. J. , Demarais Steve , Banda Alejandro , Strickland Bronson K. , Welch Anna Grace , Hearst Scoty , Lichtenberg Stuart , Houston Allan , Pepin Kim M. , VerCauteren Kurt C.
Published: January 2024

Environmental surveillance can allow early detection of diseases, which increases management options and can improve disease trajectories. Chronic wasting disease (CWD) in cervids is a significant prion disease that has been spreading across North America since the 1960s, leading to cervid population declines and concern from hunters and state wildlife agencies. White‐tailed deer have a unique breeding season behaviour called scraping, where they deposit urine and saliva at shared sites. Since both these fluids can contain CWD prions, scrape sites have the potential to serve as sentinel sites for environmental surveillance of CWD.

To examine this potential, we used camera traps to monitor deer behaviour and collected environmental samples from 105 scrape sites. The 48 km2 study site was located at the centre of the CWD zone in southwestern Tennessee, where CWD prevalence is ~50%. We also sampled scrapes in northern Mississippi at the leading edge of the same CWD distribution to test the potential for early CWD detection using scrape sampling.

From camera data, we identified 218 unique bucks visiting 105 scrapes, with a mean of 12.2 ± 7.5 bucks per scrape (mean ± SD, range 1–39) and individual bucks visiting a mean of 5.9 ± 4.6 monitored scrapes each (range 1–23).

Using real‐time quaking‐induced conversion (RT‐QuIC), we detected prion seeding activity in 20% of the soil and 41% of the licking branches of the scrape sites within the CWD study area, and in 25% of the soil and 11% of the licking branches of scrape sites sampled at the edge of the known CWD distribution.

Our data show there is environmental prion contamination at scrape sites. This supports the idea that scrapes could serve as early warning sentinel sites for CWD surveillance through testing soil and licking branches for prion seeding activity, especially in areas with limited access to harvested deer samples.
Euopisthobranchs: Integument
Authors: Lobo‐da‐Cunha Alexandre , Bartolomaeus Thomas , Malaquias Manuel A. E.
Published: January 2024

The integument comprises the epidermis formed by a layer of cells with apical microvilli and cilia, underlined by connective tissue with some muscle fibers, nerves, and different types of glands. Mucus is the main secretory product of the integument, but glands that release bioactive compounds are crucial for the chemical defense strategies of these animals. Blochmann's glands are one type of gland that occurs in cephalaspideans and anaspideans consisting of a very large single subepithelial cell surrounded by muscle fibers, with a duct that opens in the epidermis. The ink gland of anaspideans is formed by a cluster of Blochmann's glands located on the roof of the mantle cavity. The opaline gland is another kind of gland present in anaspideans, consisting of a cluster of very large secretory cells positioned beneath the floor of the mantle cavity. The secretions of the ink and opaline glands mix in the mantle cavity before being released to defend the sea hares from predators. Pigments contained in integument cells are responsible for the color of these animals, rendering them cryptic or conspicuous to advertise their toxicity or distastefulness, which is another important element of their defense.
CT image denoising methods for image quality improvement and radiation dose reduction
Authors: Sadia Rabeya Tus , Chen Jin , Zhang Jie
Published: January 2024

With the ever‐increasing use of computed tomography (CT), concerns about its radiation dose have become a significant public issue. To address the need for radiation dose reduction, CT denoising methods have been widely investigated and applied in low‐dose CT images. Numerous noise reduction algorithms have emerged, such as iterative reconstruction and most recently, deep learning (DL)‐based approaches. Given the rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence techniques, we recognize the need for a comprehensive review that emphasizes the most recently developed methods. Hence, we have performed a thorough analysis of existing literature to provide such a review. Beyond directly comparing the performance, we focus on pivotal aspects, including model training, validation, testing, generalizability, vulnerability, and evaluation methods. This review is expected to raise awareness of the various facets involved in CT image denoising and the specific challenges in developing DL‐based models.
Validating the Korean version of the Thinking About Life Experiences Scale
Authors: Park Sangmi , Park Ji‐Hyuk , Hong Ickpyo , Kim Tae Hui , Alea Nicole , Bluck Susan
Published: January 2024

The Thinking about Life Experiences (TALE) Scale is well‐used in the autobiographical memory literature. Through rigorous examination of its psychometric properties, this study aimed to validate a Korean version of the Thinking About Life Experiences Scale (TALE‐K) with Korean adults. Data were collected through an online survey. The TALE‐K, and for convergent validity purposes the Korean‐Reminiscence Functions Scale for the Elderly (K‐RFS‐E), were administered to participants aged 19 years to 77. Data from 440 community participants were analyzed. Structural validity and convergent validity were confirmed. Measurement invariance was confirmed across gender but it was partially confirmed across age group. Overall, Cronbach's αs for the three subscales and intra‐class correlation coefficients were good to excellent. The TALE‐K seems to be a reliable, valid self‐report instrument for measuring three autobiographical memory functions (i.e., self‐continuity, social‐bonding, and directing‐behavior functions) in Korean adults. Further studies to better understand autobiographical memory functions in different age groups are recommended.
3D‐Printed Polyetheretherketone Smart Polymer Nanocomposite Scaffolds: Mechanical, Self‐Sensing, and Biological Attributes
Authors: Schneider Johannes , Basak Srijani , Hou Yanan , Koo Joseph H. , Wardle Brian L. , Gadegaard Nikolaj , Kumar Shanmugam
Published: January 2024

This study demonstrates the mechanical, self‐sensing, and biological characteristics of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs)‐engineered 3D‐printed polyetheretherketone (PEEK) composite scaffolds, utilizing custom‐made feedstocks. Microstructural analysis and macroscale testing reveal that the PEEK/CNT scaffolds with 6 wt% CNT content and 46% relative density achieve a gauge factor of up to 75, a modulus of 0.64 GPa, and a compressive strength of 64 MPa. The PEEK/CNT2.5/GNP2.5 scaffolds evince still better performance, at a relative density of 73%, reporting a modulus of up to 1.1 GPa and a compressive strength of 122 MPa. Importantly, stability in mechanical and piezoresistive performance up to 500 cycles is noted, indicating a durable and reliable performance under cyclic loading. Murine preosteoblast cells (MC3T3‐E1) are used to biologically characterize sulfonated scaffolds over 14 days. Cytotoxicity, DNA, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels are quantified through in vitro assays, evaluating cell viability, proliferation, and osteogenic properties. Notably, PEEK/CNT 6 wt% scaffolds exhibit nearly 80% cytocompatibility, while PEEK/CNT2.5/GNP2.5 scaffolds reach nearly 100%. Both types of scaffolds support cell differentiation, as evidenced by elevated ALP levels. These findings carry significant promise in bone tissue engineering, paving the way for the development of adaptive, intelligent structural implants boasting enhanced biocompatibility and self‐sensing capabilities.
Role of Meniscus Shape on Crystallization of Molecular Semiconductors and Fluid Dynamics During Meniscus‐Guided Coating
Authors: Yildiz Okan , Wang Zuyuan , Brzezinski Mateusz , Wang Shuanglong , Li Zhenpeng , Michels Jasper J. , Blom Paul W. M. , Pisula Wojciech , Marszalek Tomasz
Published: January 2024

Meniscus‐guided coating (MGC) is a promising method that offers predictable fabrication of highly crystalline thin films. For the integration of molecular semiconductors into large‐area electronic devices with high efficiency and reliability, homogeneous and highly ordered film morphologies are required. The solution processing of such defect‐free film structures requires comprehensive understanding of the complex relationship between molecular crystallization, fluid dynamics, and meniscus shape. In this work, the role of the meniscus shape on fluid dynamics in the coating bead and the crystallization process of the low molecular weight semiconductor 6,13‐bis(triisopropylsilylethynyl)pentacene (TIPS‐pentacene) during zone‐casting is systematically investigated. Depending on meniscus shape and coating velocity, four morphological subregimes are found: stick‐slip morphology, unidirectional homogenous crystal stripes, spherulitic morphology, and directional branched morphology; of which the second exhibits the highest crystallinity with a reduced trap density in the thin film, resulting in improved saturation and effective mobilities in field‐effect transistors (FET). Numerical simulation of fluid dynamics explains the observed morphological trends, which are correlated with the electrical behavior of the devices. This work provides a fundamental basis for upscaling MGC methods for the application of functional thin films.
Core–Shell Structured Flame‐Retardant Separator Mediated with Metal–Organic Framework Armor Enables Self‐Acceleration Mechanism for Dendrite‐Free and Safer Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Li Dixiong , Ouyang Yuan , Xiao Yingbo , Xie Yufeng , Zeng Qinghan , Yu Siting , Zheng Cheng , Zhang Qi , Huang Shaoming
Published: January 2024

Developing an optimal multifunctional flame‐retardant separator is crucial for enhancing lithium metal battery (LMB) safety. However, this task poses challenges due to the inferior electrochemical stability and limited ion transport of most fire retardant‐based coatings. In this work, the core–shell structured flame‐retardant matrix is elaborated by in situ growing a thin layer of MOF armor onto flame‐retardant ammonium polyphosphate (APP) bulk materials to further manufacture a multifunctional separator (APP@ZIF‐8@PP). The MOF armor acts as both a protector and ion transport regulator, effectively safeguarding APP from side reactions and optimizing the efficiency, selectivity, and deposition behavior of ion flux. Notably, such separator demonstrates a self‐acceleration mechanism, i.e., APP and ZIF‐8 can promote the decomposition of each other mutually, activating the flame‐retardant effect at lower temperatures. Additionally, APP@ZIF‐8 aids in forming a dense char layer during pyrolysis, which can insulate against the transfer of oxygen and heat. Finally, the LMBs assembled with such a multifunctional separator exhibit heightened safety and optimized electrochemical performance. This work provides valuable insights into the development of advanced porous materials‐based flame‐retardant separators, contributing to safer and more reliable energy storage devices.
Extracellular Vesicle Clicking on Osteoimplants Through Biomimetic Molecular Adhesion Enables Immune‐Enhanced Osseointegration in Diabetics
Authors: Ge Gaoran , Wang Wei , Wang Qing , Wang Miao , Wang Tao , Yu Lei , Zhang Xianzuo , Zhu Chen , Xu Yaozeng , Yang Huilin , Bai Jiaxiang , Pan Guoqing , Geng Dechun
Published: January 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from differentiating induced stem cells maintain their original stemness and differentiating trends and possess strong immunoregulatory capability. Biomaterials equipped with EVs are very promising in regenerative medicine. However, surface EV‐decoration on osteoimplants remains a challenge, due to the complexity of traditional molecular conjugations and the fragility of EVs. Here, mussel‐like molecular adhesion is combined with bioorthogonal click conjugation to introduce EVs on titanium (Ti) implants. The biomimetic adhesion and clickable molecular linkage allow mild and stable tethering of pre‐osteogenic mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)‐derived EVs on Ti implants. EV‐decorated implants exhibit significantly enhanced osseointegration on the bone‐implant surface under diabetic conditions, promoting increased expression of osteogenic genes. Modified surfaces impelled phenotypic alterations in macrophage polarization via multi‐pathway regulation, decreasing proinflammatory M1 macrophage formation, which can lead to the promotion of surface osteogenesis. On Ti rods implanted in a diabetic rat model, EV coating inhibited M1macrophages around the prosthesis, resulting in satisfactory long‐term osseointegration. This study offers a new perspective to represent a simple and effective means for surface EV decoration, providing an osteoimmunomodulatory effect to enhance the diabetic osseointegration of implants.
Expanding the Horizons of Machine Learning in Nanomaterials to Chiral Nanostructures
Authors: Kuznetsova Vera , Coogan Áine , Botov Dmitry , Gromova Yulia , Ushakova Elena V. , Gun'ko Yurii K.
Published: January 2024

Machine learning holds significant research potential in the field of nanotechnology, enabling nanomaterial structure and property predictions, facilitating materials design and discovery, and reducing the need for time‐consuming and labor‐intensive experiments and simulations. In contrast to their achiral counterparts, the application of machine learning for chiral nanomaterials is still in its infancy, with a limited number of publications to date. This is despite the great potential of machine learning to advance the development of new sustainable chiral materials with high values of optical activity, circularly polarized luminescence, and enantioselectivity, as well as for the analysis of structural chirality by electron microscopy. In this review, an analysis of machine learning methods used for studying achiral nanomaterials is provided, subsequently offering guidance on adapting and extending this work to chiral nanomaterials. An overview of chiral nanomaterials within the framework of synthesis–structure–property–application relationships is presented and insights on how to leverage machine learning for the study of these highly complex relationships are provided. Some key recent publications are reviewed and discussed on the application of machine learning for chiral nanomaterials. Finally, the review captures the key achievements, ongoing challenges, and the prospective outlook for this very important research field.
Electrocatalytic Activation in ReSe2‐VSe2 Alloy Nanosheets to Boost Water‐Splitting Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Kwak In Hye , Kim Ju Yeon , Zewdie Getasew Mulualem , Yang JuHyun , Lee Kug‐Seung , Yoo Seung Jo , Kwon Ik Seon , Park Jeunghee , Kang Hong Seok
Published: January 2024

It is challenging to control the electronic structure of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMD) for extended applications in renewable energy devices. Here, ReSe2‐VSe2 (Re1−xVxSe2) alloy nanosheets over the whole composition range via a colloidal reaction is synthesized. Increasing x makes the nanosheets more metallic and induces a 1T″‐to‐1T phase transition at x = 0.5–0.6. Compared to the MoSe2‐VSe2 and WSe2‐VSe2 alloy nanosheets, ReSe2 and VSe2 are mixed more homogeneously at the atomic scale. The alloy nanosheets at x = 0.1–0.7 exhibit an enhanced electrocatalytic activity toward acidic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). In situ X‐ray absorption fine structure measurements reveal that alloying caused the Re and V atoms to be synergically more active in the HER. Gibbs free energy (ΔGH*) and density of state calculations confirm that alloying and Se vacancies effectively activate the metal sites toward HER. The composition dependence of HER performance is explained by homogenous atomic mixing with the increased Se vacancies. The study provides a strategy for designing new TMD alloy nanosheets with enhanced catalytic activity.
Homomultivalent Polymeric Nanotraps Disturb Lipid Metabolism Homeostasis and Tune Pyroptosis in Cancer
Authors: Zhou Jie , Ji Jiecheng , Li Xue , Zhang Yuxin , Gu Lei , Zheng Xiuli , Li Yunkun , He Jinhan , Yang Cheng , Xiao Kai , Gong Qiyong , Gu Zhongwei , Luo Kui
Published: January 2024

Genetic manipulations and pharmaceutical interventions to disturb lipid metabolism homeostasis have emerged as an attractive approach for the management of cancer. However, the research on the utilization of bioactive materials to modulate lipid metabolism homeostasis remains constrained. In this study, heptakis (2,3,6‐tri‐O‐methyl)‐β‐cyclodextrin (TMCD) is utilized to fabricate homomultivalent polymeric nanotraps, and surprisingly, its unprecedented ability to perturb lipid metabolism homeostasis and induce pyroptosis in tumor cells is found. Through modulation of the density of TMCD arrayed on the polymers, one top‐performing nanotrap, PTMCD4, exhibits the most powerful cholesterol‐trapping and depletion capacity, thus achieving prominent cytotoxicity toward different types of tumor cells and encouraging antitumor effects in vivo. The interactions between PTMCD4 and biomembranes of tumor cells effectively enable the reduction of cellular phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol levels, thus provoking damage to the biomembrane integrity and perturbation of lipid metabolism homeostasis. Additionally, the interplays between PTMCD4 and lysosomes also induce lysosomal stress, activate the nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐like receptor protein 3 inflammasomes, and subsequently trigger tumor cell pyroptosis. To sum up, this study first introduces dendronized bioactive polymers to manipulate lipid metabolism and has shed light on another innovative insight for cancer therapy.
Hierarchically Structured 3D Nanoporous Vanadium Oxide Transparent Electrodes for Next‐Generation Supercapacitors
Authors: Ingole Rahul S. , Kadam Snehal L. , Tiwari Nidhi G. , Nakate Umesh T. , Mangiri Ramandha , Kulkarni Shrinivas B. , Lokhande Balkrishna J. , Ok Jong G.
Published: January 2024

This article describes the automatic spray pyrolysis deposition (ASPD) process for the synthesis of hierarchically structured 3D nanoporous vanadium oxide (V2O5) transparent material on a fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO) substrate. The deposition of material occurs at 673 K using an aqueous solution of NH4VO3, with a constant solution spray rate of 10 mL min−1 and airflow rate of 10 L min−1. Structural analysis confirms the pure orthorhombic structure formation of the V2O5 material, while FE‐SEM images show a well‐organized 3D spongy‐like porous architecture. The excellent conformality of the ASPD enables the deposition of high‐aspect‐ratio 3D structured nanoporous V2O5 electrodes for next‐generation supercapacitor applications. The hierarchical structured 3D nanoporous V2O5 electrode exhibits superior electrochemical performance in a 1M Na2SO3 electrolyte. Within the potential window 0 to ‐1.3 V, the electrode archives the highest specific capacitance (SC) of 453.32 F g−1 and also retains 86% of its capacitance after 5000 cycles. These properties mainly originate from the crystallinity, 3D nanoporous structure, and fast and easy ionic intercalation through the material. Furthermore, a symmetric supercapacitor device using this electrode is fabricated and which yields outstanding electrochemical performance. Overall, the results highlight the potential of 3D nanoporous V2O5 as an outstanding electrode material for next‐generation supercapacitor applications.
A Self‐Accelerating Naphthalimide‐Based Probe Coupled with Upconversion Nanoparticles for Ultra‐Accurate Tri‐Mode Visualization of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Feng Yanan , Lei Da , Zu Baiyi , Li Jiguang , Li Yajuan , Dou Xincun
Published: January 2024

The design and development of ultra‐accurate probe is of great significance to chemical sensing in complex practical scenarios. Here, a self‐accelerating naphthalimide‐based probe with fast response and high sensitivity toward hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is designed. By coupling with the specially selected upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs), an ultra‐accurate colorimetric‐fluorescent‐upconversion luminescence (UCL) tri‐mode platform is constructed. Owing to the promoted reaction process, this platform demonstrates rapid response (< 1 s), an ultra‐low detection limit (4.34 nM), and superb anti‐interferent ability even in presence of > 21 types of oxidants, explosives, metallic salts, daily compounds, colorful or fluorescent substances. In addition, the effectiveness of this design is further verified by a sponge‐based sensing chip loaded with the UCNPs/probe in recognizing trace H2O2 vapor from interferents with the three characteristic colors existing simultaneously. The proposed design of probe and tri‐mode visualization detection platform is expected to open up a brand‐new methodology for ultra‐accurate sensing.
Sub‐0.6 eV Inverted Metamorphic GaInAs Cells Grown on Inp and GaAs Substrates for Thermophotovoltaics and Laser Power Conversion
Authors: Schulte Kevin L. , Friedman Daniel J. , Dada Titilope , Guthrey Harvey L. , Costa Edgard W. , Tervo Eric J. , France Ryan M. , Geisz John F. , Steiner Myles A.
Published: January 2024

Inverted metamorphic Ga0.3In0.7As photovoltaic converters with sub‐0.60 eV bandgaps grown on InP and GaAs are presented. Threading dislocation densities are 1.3 ± 0.6 × 106 and 8.9 ± 1.7 × 106 cm−2 on InP and GaAs, respectively. The devices generate open‐circuit voltages of 0.386 and 0.383 V, respectively, under irradiance producing a short‐circuit current density of ≈10 A cm−2, yielding bandgap‐voltage offsets of 0.20 and 0.21 V. Power and broadband reflectance measurements are used  to estimate thermophotovoltaic (TPV) efficiency. The InP‐based cell is estimated to yield 1.09 W cm−2 at 1100 °C versus 0.92 W cm−2 for the GaAs‐based cell, with efficiencies of 16.8 versus 9.2%. The efficiencies of both devices are limited by sub‐bandgap absorption, with power weighted sub‐bandgap reflectances of 81% and 58%, respectively, the majority of which is assumed to occur in the graded buffers. The 1100 °C TPV efficiencies are estimated to increase to 24.0% and 20.7% in structures with the graded buffer removed, if previously demonstrated reflectance is achieved. These devices also have application to laser power conversion in the 2.0–2.3 µm atmospheric window. Peak laser power converter efficiencies of 36.8% and 32.5% are estimated under 2.0 µm irradiances of 1.86 and 2.81 W cm−2, respectively.
Remapping Wetness Perception in Upper Limb Amputees
Authors: Ploumitsakou Maria , Muheim Jonathan , Felouzis Amanda , Carbonell Muñoz Nerea‐Isabel , Iberite Francesco , Akouissi Outman , Morosato Federico , Gruppioni Emanuele , Filingeri Davide , Micera Silvestro , Shokur Solaiman
Published: January 2024

Recent research has made remarkable strides in restoring sensory feedback for prosthetic users, including tactile, proprioceptive, and thermal feedback. Herein, a sensory modality that has been largely neglected is explored: the ability to perceive wetness. Providing moisture‐related information to prosthesis users can increase their overall sensory palette toward a more natural sensory experience. A rapid decrease in skin temperature is found to trigger the illusion of contact with something wet. Two body parts were tested, the upper arm and the lateral abdomen, in a group of non amputated participants, and it was found that a wetness sensation can be elicited and maintained for at least 10 s in 86% and 93% of participants, respectively. It is then demonstrated how to mediate the wetness sensation in real‐time using a thermal wearable device that mimics the thermal properties of the skin. Finally, two upper limb amputee individuals used their prosthetic arm, sensorized with the device, to discriminate between three levels of moisture; their detection accuracy was similar to one they had with their intact hands. The current study is a stepping stone for future prostheses aimed at restoring the richness of sensory experience in upper limb amputees.
Catalyst‐Free Three‐Component Synthesis of α‐Amino Phosphonates
Authors: Soliya Sudha , Kuperkar Ketan , Ashalu Kashamalla Chinna , Naveen Togati
Published: January 2024

An efficient and environmentally friendly method for the synthesis of α‐amino phosphonates has been reported using the one‐pot, three‐component reaction of various substituted anilines and benzaldehydes with diethyl phosphite in acetonitrile at 100 °C. The advantages of this method are catalyst‐free and works well with a broad substrate scope of various aromatic anilines and aldehydes containing both electron‐donating and withdrawing groups.
FOXK1 promotes hormonally responsive breast carcinogenesis by suppressing apoptosis
Authors: Zhao Minghui , Ma Tingyao , Zhang Zhaohan , Wang Yu , Wang Xilin , Wang Wenjuan , Chen Xiaohong , Gao Ran , Shan Lin
Published: January 2024

Background

Globally, breast cancer constitutes the predominant malignancy in women. Abnormal regulation of epigenetic factors plays a key role in the development of tumors. Anti‐apoptosis is a characteristic of tumor cells. Therefore, exploring and identifying relevant epigenetic factors that regulate the apoptosis of tumor cells is the foundation for clarifying the pathogenesis of tumors and achieving precision antitumor therapy.

Method

This study focused on exploring the epigenetic mechanism of FOXK1 in the development of estrogen receptor‐positive (ER+) breast cancer. We used overexpressing FLAG‐FOXK1 MCF‐7 cells to perform silver staining mass spectrometry analysis and conducted Co‐IP experiments to verify the interactions. ChIP‐seq was conducted on MCF‐7 cells to examine FOXK1's binding across the genome and its transcriptional target sites. To validate the ChIP‐seq results, qChIP, western blotting, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were performed. Through TUNEL assay, cell counting assay, colony formation assay, and the mouse xenograft models, the effect of FOXK1 on breast cancer progression was detected. Finally, by analyzing online databases, the correlation between FOXK1 and the survival of breast cancer patients was examined.

Results

FOXK1 interacts with the REST/CoREST transcriptional corepression complex to transcriptionally inhibit target genes representing the apoptotic pathway. Abnormally high expression of FOXK1 prevents the apoptosis of ER+ breast cancer cells in vitro and promotes ER+ breast tumor progression in vivo. Furthermore, the expression of FOXK1 is negatively correlated with the survival of ER+ breast cancer patients.

Conclusion

FOXK1 promotes ER+ breast carcinogenesis through anti‐apoptosis and acts as a potential target for ER+ breast cancer treatment.
Brownian Particle in a Poisson‐Shot‐Noise Active Bath: Exact Statistics, Effective Temperature, and Inference
Authors: Di Bello Costantino , Majumdar Rita , Marathe Rahul , Metzler Ralf , Roldán Édgar
Published: January 2024

The dynamics of an overdamped Brownian particle in a thermal bath that contains a dilute solution of active particles is studied. The particle moves in a harmonic potential and experiences Poisson shot‐noise kicks with specified amplitude distribution due to moving active particles in the bath. From the Fokker–Planck equation for the particle dynamics, the stationary solution for the displacement distribution is derived along with the moments characterizing mean, variance, skewness, and kurtosis, as well as finite‐time first and second moments. An effective temperature is also computed through the fluctuation–dissipation theorem and show that equipartition theorem holds for all zero‐mean kick distributions, including those leading to non‐Gaussian stationary statistics. For the case of Gaussian‐distributed active kicks, a re‐entrant behavior from non‐Gaussian to Gaussian stationary states and a heavy‐tailed leptokurtic distribution across a wide range of parameters are found as seen in recent experimental studies. Further analysis reveals statistical signatures of the irreversible dynamics of the particle displacement in terms of the time asymmetry of cross‐correlation functions. Fruits of the work is the development of an compact inference scheme that may allow experimentalists to extract the rate and moments of underlying shot‐noise solely from the statistics the particle position.
Molecular Engineering Enabling High Initial Coulombic Efficiency and Rubost Solid Electrolyte Interphase for Hard Carbon in Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Sun Yu , Hou Ruilin , Xu Sheng , Zhou Haoshen , Guo Shaohua
Published: January 2024

Hard carbon (HC) as a potential candidate anode for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) suffers from unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE), which limits its commercial applications and urgently requires the emergence of a new strategy. Herein, an organic molecule with two sodium ions, disodium phthalate (DP), was successfully engineered on the HC surface (DP‐HC) to replenish the sodium loss from solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation. A stabilized and ultrathin (≈7.4 nm) SEI was constructed on the DP‐HC surface, which proved to be simultaneously suitable in both ester and ether electrolytes. Compared to pure HC (60.8 %), the as‐designed DP‐HC exhibited a high ICE of >96.3 % in NaPF6 in diglyme (G2) electrolyte, and is capable of servicing consistently for >1600 cycles at 0.5 A g−1. The Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP)|DP‐HC full‐cell with a 98.3 % exceptional ICE can be cycled stably for 450 cycles, demonstrating the tremendous practical application potential of DP‐HC. This work provides a molecular design strategy to improve the ICE of HC, which will inspire more researchers to concentrate on the commercialization progress of HC.