bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the Effect of Edge Shape on Characteristics of Flow Under Vertical Gates
Authors: Daneshfaraz Rasoul , Ghahramanzadeh Ali , Ghaderi Amir , Joudi Ali Rezazadeh , Abraham John
Published: April 2016

Gates are useful structures that are widely used in open channels for controlling discharge and water level. In this article, to study the flow passing under a gate, five gates with different‐shaped edges are numerically simulated. The contraction coefficient, discharge coefficient, pressure distribution behind the gate, and the pressure distribution on the channel bottom near the gate were investigated with models in free flow conditions. The analyses were performed for six water depths. The results show that the contraction coefficients for standard and jagged‐edged shapes increase with an increase in the a/E1 ratio (where a is the gate opening and E is the energy level), which matches the experimental results. For upward‐ and downward‐facing sharp edges and for rounded‐edged gates, the contraction coefficient decreases until a/E1 < 0.4 and increases for a/E1 > 0.4. Investigation of pressure distribution behind the gate and on the bottom of the channel under the gate shows that the position of maximum pressure is the same for all models, but its magnitude varies among different models. Comparison of numerical analysis results with experimental and theoretical data showed good agreement.
Multi‐component Filters for Domestic Graywater Treatment in Village Houses
Authors: Mohamed Radin Maya Saphira Radin , Al‐Gheethi A.A. , Miau Jackson Anak , Kassim Amir Hashim Mohd.
Published: April 2016

The majority of village houses in Malaysia generate graywater—from kitchens, bathrooms, sinks, and laundry—that is discharged directly into rivers or main drains without any treatment. These practices have a critical impact on humans and the environment. Therefore, this pilot‐scale study aimed to design a natural filtration system that consists of clamshells, steel slag, limestone, and sand media for treatment of graywater. The filtration system was designed with 24 L of capacity and fixed at the discharge point of graywater in village houses. The filtration system exhibited high efficiency for treatment of household graywater, with 87.7% of removal for biochemical oxygen demand, 74.0% for chemical oxygen demand, 96.2% for total suspended solids, and 98% for turbidity with a pH of 7.87. The filtrated graywater met the limits required by Malaysia's 1974 Environmental Quality Act, 2009 regulations, Standard A, for disposal upstream of drains.
Vivências e significados da depressão pós-parto de mulheres no contexto da família
Authors: Rodrigues da Silva Barbosa Maria Aparecida , Ângelo Margareth
Published: April 2016

Objetivos: Comprender las experiencias y significados de la depresión materna después del parto para la mujer y su  familia; Desarrollar un modelo teórico representativo de la  experiencia de la mujer y de la familia.

Métodos: Estudio cualitativo tuvo como guía de referencia teórica el interaccionismo Simbólico y la teoría referencial metodológica basada en  Datos. Los participantes de este estudio fueron mujeres que  han tenido depresión postparto y sus familiares, reclutados a través de hospitales públicos y unidades básicas de salud de la ciudad de Cuiabá-MT. Los datos fueron colectados a través de entrevistas en profundidad con la mujer y la familia.

Resultados: El modelo teórico “Oscilando entre el apoyo y la necesidad de mantener el control” representa las percepciones y estrategias presentes en las experiencias de la mujer y de la familia dirigidas a la adaptación de la vida familiar, a las circunstancias de la vida afectadas por la depresión.

Conclusiones: Control y apoyo son los elementos básicos simbólicos de cómo las mujeres y la familia manejan la experiencia desde el inicio de los síntomas hasta la confirmación del diagnóstico.
Gerenciamento de recursos humanos e sua interface na sistematização da assistência de enfermagem
Authors: Soares Mirelle Inácio , Rodrigues Resck Zélia Marilda , Camelo Silvia Helena Henriques , De Souza Terra Fábio
Published: April 2016

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar de acuerdo a la perspectiva de las enfermeras, los factores o dificultades que limitan la aplicación de sistematización de la asistencia de enfermería relacionados con la gestión de recursos humanos en los hospitales donde trabajan.

Se trata de un estudio cualitativo, basado en el marco de la hermenéutica-dialéctica. La muestra estuvo conformada por 32 enfermeras de tres hospitales en una ciudad en el sur de Minas Gerais. Se utilizó el grupo focal con la pregunta guía: "¿La gestión de los recursos humanos en enfermería conlleva dificultades en la implementación de la sistematización de la atención de enfermería?". Después de las entrevistas, los discursos fueron transcritos totalmente. El análisis de contenido permitió extraer la gestión de categorías de los recursos humanos y las dificultades para la sistematización de la asistencia de enfermería en el trabajo diario de enfermería.

Los resultados mostraron que puntos de dificultad tales como: reducción del número de empleados, el absentismo, la rotación y la falta de compromiso con la profesión, donde establecer un dimensionado correspondiente del marco de enfermería es esencial para asegurar la excelencia de la asistencia al cliente. Sin embargo, para la puesta en marcha con éxito de la sistematización de la asistencia de enfermería es necesario tener en cuenta el número de personal de enfermería, la asistencia de la complejidad requerida por los pacientes e incluso superar la resistencia de algunas enfermeras que todavía no entienden la sistematización de la asistencia de enfermería como un respaldo legal de la profesión.
Estudio de eventos adversos, factores y periodicidad en pacientes hospitalizados en unidades de cuidado intensivo
Authors: Achury Saldaña Diana , Rodriguez Sandra Monica , Diaz Juan Carlos , Cavallo Edhit , Zarate Grajales Rosa , Vargas Tolosa Ruby , De las Salas Roxana
Published: April 2016

Objetivo: Determinar los eventos adversos (EA) reportados por enfermería y sus factores en unidades de cuidado intensivo (UCI) adulto, pediátrica o neonatal de tres países participantes (México, Argentina y Colombia).

Método: Se desarrolló un estudio multicéntrico, descriptivo, correlacional. La unidad de observación la constituyeron los EA reportados por enfermería durante un periodo de seis meses en 17 UCIS. Para el reporte se diseñó un formulario digital, presentado en línea, que contenía las categorías y los factores relacionados de los Eventos Adversos. La información se analizó con el programa estadístico SPSS Statistics 22.0, versión 2013.

Resultados: Se reportaron 1163 eventos, de los cuales el 34 %, se relacionó con el cuidado, el 19 % con vía aérea y ventilación mecánica, el 16 % con el manejo de accesos vasculares y drenajes, el 13 % con infección nosocomial y el 11 % con la administración de medicamentos. El 7 % restante correspondió a relacionados con pruebas diagnósticas y equipos. El 94,8% se consideraron prevenibles. Para determinar los factores presentes en los EA, se utilizó el coeficiente Phi y se encontró que los que podrían estar relacionados fueron aquellos del sistema en los que predominó la falta de adhesión a protocolos, problemas de comunicación, formación y entrenamiento inadecuado (Phi 0-1 p<0,05).

Conclusiones: Los EA con mayor prevalencia están relacionados, en su mayoría, con el cuidado directo al paciente y el de vía aérea. El posible factor relacionado fue el del sistema. Por tal motivo, el profesional de enfermería debe establecer estrategias para fortalecer y mejorar los procesos relacionados con la aplicación de protocolos, comunicación y una política de recursos humanos.
A navigation system for tree space
Authors: Mark Sarah , McLeod Jeanette , Steel Mike
Published: April 2016

The reconstruction of evolutionary trees from data sets on overlapping sets of species is a central problem in phylogenetics. Provided that the tree reconstructed for each subset of species is rooted and that these trees fit together consistently, the space of all parent trees that 'display' these trees was recently shown to satisfy the following strong property: there exists a path from any one parent tree to any other parent tree by a sequence of local rearrangements (nearest neighbour interchanges) so that each intermediate tree also lies in this same tree space. However, the proof of this result uses a non-constructive argument. In this paper we describe a specific, polynomial-time procedure for navigating from any given parent tree to another while remaining in this tree space. The results are of particular relevance to the recent study of 'phylogenetic terraces'.
De la filmologie à la sémiologie : figures de l’alternance au cinéma1
Authors: Gaudreault André , Gauthier Philippe
Published: April 2016

Dans ses premiers travaux sémiologiques, Christian Metz s’est penché sur les divers mécanismes du montage cinématographique, ce dont rend bien compte son fameux tableau de la « grande syntagmatique ». Il s’agit dans cet article d’essayer de comprendre le rôle de ces travaux dans l’histoire de la théorie sur le montage, plus précisément en ce qui a trait aux figures de l’alternance (soit, essentiellement, le montage alterné et le montage parallèle). Les auteurs dressent d’abord un portrait de la « situation définitionnelle » des figures de l’alternance dans les écrits de théoriciens ou d’historiens français des années 1950 et du début des années 1960 (dont Étienne et Anne Souriau, Henri Agel, André Bazin et Jean Mitry), pour mettre ensuite en lumière la manière dont les propositions de Metz ont levé une part importante de l’ambiguïté qui prévalait dans la définition de ces figures de montage, ouvrant ainsi la voie à l’écriture d’une histoire renouvelée du montage alterné.
Redessiner les espaces francophones au présent : la prise en compte de l’immigration dans la recherche sur les francophonies minoritaires au Canada1
Authors: Fourot Aude-Claire
Published: April 2016

Le déclin du nombre des Canadiens ayant le français comme première langue officielle parlée a conduit l’État et les communautés francophones en milieu minoritaire à penser l’immigration comme une source de « vitalité ». Des plans spécifiques d’attraction et de rétention des immigrants francophones ont alors été mis en place depuis le début des années 2000, faisant qu’aujourd’hui une proportion plus importante de la population francophone installée à l’extérieur du Québec est immigrante et elle est à l’origine de nouveaux espaces francophones, plurilingues et multiculturels. Dans cet article, nous proposons une analyse critique de la prise en compte et des représentations de l’immigration dans la recherche sur les minorités francophones et ses liens avec les débats relatifs à l’identité canadienne. Nous analysons ensuite le renouveau des recherches compte tenu de l’intérêt récent mais soutenu pour l’immigration francophone. Nous en soulignons les principaux thèmes tout en mettant l’accent sur la spécificité « partenariale » du mode de production, comme certaines de ses limites.
Le rôle des maires dans l’acceptabilité sociale des projets d’infrastructure : tension entre arbitrage et promotion1
Authors: Yates Stéphanie , Arbour Myriam
Published: April 2016

Relativement nouvelle dans le paysage sociopolitique québécois, la notion d’acceptabilité sociale en est venue à être considérée comme un impératif à la réalisation des grands projets d’infrastructure, les promoteurs devant ainsi démontrer que les populations concernées donnent leur assentiment à leur entreprise. Les élus municipaux – et les maires en particulier – sont directement concernés par ces dynamiques, lesquelles ne sont pas exemptes de tensions. D’un côté, les acteurs privés souhaitent que les maires les soutiennent dans leur démarche et usent de leur leadership politique pour faire la promotion active des projets soumis à l’acceptabilité sociale. D’un autre côté, les citoyens considèrent que leur maire se doit de demeurer neutre afin de soupeser, en toute objectivité, les pour et les contre d’un projet donné au regard de l’intérêt public de leur communauté, prise au sens large. Au final, les maires semblent assez mal outillés pour considérer les projets et leurs parties prenantes dans leur globalité et pour piloter ces processus de manière totalement objective, alors que d’importantes compensations financières sont souvent promises aux municipalités d’accueil des projets. À partir d’un cadrage théorique orienté autour de la notion plurielle de légitimité, nous étudions ces dynamiques à travers le cas récent du développement d’un parc éolien à Saint-Valentin, en Montérégie (Québec), que nous comparons au projet d’agrandissement du site d’enfouissement sanitaire de Saint-Thomas, dans Lanaudière (Québec). Sous l’éclairage de ces cas, nous avançons que des dispositifs participatifs devraient être mis à la disposition des élus municipaux afin qu’ils puissent développer une vision partagée du développement de leur territoire au sein de laquelle pourront s’inscrire les projets, cette vision devant reposer sur une prise en compte du point de vue de l’ensemble des parties prenantes préoccupées par un territoire donné.
Suppression of relaxation effect in HfO2 resistive random access memory array by improved program operations
Authors: Wang Chen , Wu Huaqiang , Gao Bin , Dai Lingjun , Deng Ning , Sekar Deepak , Lu Zhichao , Kellam Mark , Bronner Gary , Qian He
Published: April 2016

As a postprograming resistance shift, the relaxation effect could be a major issue for resistive random access memory (RRAM) applications. To understand the physical mechanisms of the relaxation effect, temperature-related ion and charge movements are analyzed using the incremental-step-pulse program (ISPP) and repeat-cycle program (RCP). Pre-electron detrapping (PED) operation is found to minimize the amount of interfacial trapped charges and thus to greatly reduce the resistance relaxation effect. Our experimental results demonstrate the improved data retention and tight distribution of RRAM arrays as a result of the above optimized program operations.
Epidemiological dynamics of an urban Dengue 4 outbreak in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Villabona-Arenas Christian Julián , de Oliveira Jessica Luana , de Sousa-Capra Carla , Balarini Karime , Pereira da Fonseca Celso Ricardo Theoto , Zanotto Paolo Marinho de Andrade
Published: April 2016

Background:Dengue studies at the urban scale are scarce and required for guiding control efforts. In Brazil, the burden of dengue is high and challenges city public health administrations with limited resources. Here we studied the dynamics of a dengue epidemic in a single city.Methods:Serum samples from dengue suspected cases were collected and tested, from December 2012 and July 2013 in Guarujá, Brazil. We use incidence series analysis to provide a detailed view of the reproduction number dynamics and a Bayesian analysis to infer the spread of the serotype using geographic and temporal data.Results:We obtained nucleotide sequences from 354 envelope genes and georeferenced 286 samples during the course of the outbreak. Serotype 4 was responsible for the epidemic. We identified at least two major lineages that overlapped in distribution. We observed high reproduction numbers and high cladogenesis prior to the escalation of clinical case notifications. Three densely populated non-adjacent neighborhoods played a pivotal role during the onset and/or course of the epidemic.Discussion:Our findings point to high dengue virus transmission with a substantial proportion of unapparent cases that led to a late recognition of an outbreak. Usually source reductions initiatives tend to be insufficient once an epidemic has been established. Nevertheless, health authorities in Guarujá prioritized vector control on specific places with clusters of georeferenced viremic patients, which appear to have diminished the epidemic impact.
PIN1 is a novel interaction partner and a negative upstream regulator of the transcription factor NFIB
Authors: Saritas Erdogan Sinem , Yilmaz Ahmet Erdal , Kumbasar Asli
Published: September 2024

NFIB is a transcription factor of the Nuclear Factor One (NFI) family that is essential for embryonic development. Post‐translational control of NFIB or its upstream regulators have not been well characterized. Here, we show that PIN1 binds NFIB in a phosphorylation‐dependent manner, via its WW domain. PIN1 interacts with the well‐conserved N‐terminal domains of all NFIs. Moreover, PIN1 attenuates the transcriptional activity of NFIB; this attenuation requires substrate binding by PIN1 but not its isomerase activity. Paradoxically, we found stabilization of NFIB by PIN1. We propose that PIN1 represses NFIB function not by regulating its abundance but by inducing a conformational change. These results identify NFIB as a novel PIN1 target and posit a role for PIN1 in post‐translational regulation of NFIB and other NFIs.
Prevalence and Outcomes of Gastrointestinal Manifestations in an Australian Scleroderma Cohort
Authors: Quinlivan Alannah , Hansen Dylan , Stevens Wendy , Ross Laura , Ferdowsi Nava , Proudman Susanna M. , Walker Jennifer G. , Sahhar Joanne , Ngian Gene‐Siew , Apostolopoulos Diane , Host Lauren V. , Major Gabor , Basnayake Chamara , Morrisroe Kathleen , Nikpour Mandana
Published: September 2024

Objective

The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is the most commonly affected internal organ in systemic sclerosis (SSc). We sought to determine the prevalence and impact of GIT symptoms on survival and patient‐reported outcomes.

Methods

A total of 907 consecutive patients from the Australian Scleroderma Cohort Study who had prospectively completed the University of California, Los Angeles, Scleroderma Clinical Trials Consortium Gastrointestinal Tract 2.0 Questionnaire (UCLA GIT) between 2015 and 2021 were included. The associations between UCLA GIT scores and physical function (Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire), quality of life (QoL; Short Form 36), mood (Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System [PROMIS] anxiety and depression domains), fatigue (Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy–Fatigue score), and employment were investigated using multivariable population‐averaged panel models using generalized estimating equations (GEEs). Kaplan‐Meier curves and multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to evaluate survival according to total UCLA GIT scores.

Results

GIT symptoms were reported in 87% of participants, with 46% to 52% reporting moderate to very severe symptoms of reflux, distension, diarrhea, and constipation. Higher total UCLA GIT scores were associated with worse QoL, physical function, fatigue, anxiety, and depression (P < 0.001). In the multivariable GEE analysis, moderate and severe to very severe total scores, reflux scores, and distension scores were associated with worse physical function, QoL, fatigue, anxiety, and depression compared to mild scores (P < 0.05). Patients with severe total scores and diarrhea scores were more likely to be unemployed compared to those with mild scores (P < 0.05). UCLA GIT total scores were not independently associated with death in our cohort.

Conclusion

GIT manifestations are common in SSc and negatively impact QoL, physical function, and employment but are not directly associated with increased death.
Using Adaptive Choice‐Based Conjoint Approach to Facilitate Shared Decision‐Making in Osteoarthritis Management: A Patient Perception Study
Authors: Al‐Omari Basem , Farhat Joviana , Odeh Mohanad , Khan Mumtaz , Grancharov Hristo , Abu Zahr Zaki , Hanna Sammy , Alrahoomi Abdulla
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study examines the application of the adaptive choice‐based conjoint (ACBC) method to facilitate the shared decision‐making (SDM) process for osteoarthritis (OA) treatment.

Methods

The study recruited adult patients with OA attending the rheumatology/orthopedics clinics in a local urban hospital in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Participants completed a questionnaire regarding who influences their decision in selecting OA medication, followed by an ACBC questionnaire about OA medication preferences and a questionnaire about the potential contribution of ACBC to the SDM process. A univariate analysis was used to investigate the relationships between participant variables and factors that influence their decision‐making processes. The chi‐squared test, Fisher's exact test, Cramér's V coefficient test, and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used. The primary outcome investigates the contribution of the ACBC method to the SDM process for OA treatment. Secondary outcomes measure the association between patient demographics and variables related to the SDM process and ACBC questionnaire.

Results

Five hundred patients participated in this study, with a response rate of 100%. Most study participants were 60 to 69 years old (34.8%), women (78.8%), and UAE nationals (90.4%). Patients’ opinions and online or paper information influencing their decision in selecting OA medication had a statistically significant association with age, gender, education, and employment (P = 0.001, P = 0.039, P = 0.002, and P = 0.001, respectively). Employment status showed the strongest association (φc 0.170) with being independent in making the decision about OA medications, whereas education levels showed the strongest association (φc 0.24) with decisions impacted by online or paper information. The results of the multivariable logistic analysis showed that the only statistically significant variable for online or paper information that influenced the decision in selecting OA medication was education level (P = 0.003). Most participants agreed or strongly agreed that the ACBC predicted their preferences for OA treatment (96.8%) and that the questionnaire may help doctors understand patient preferences (93%), and they recommended the use of the ACBC tool in doctors’ clinics to aid the SDM process (92.8%) between patients and their physicians.

Conclusion

An ACBC approach can facilitate doctors’ understanding of patient preferences and aid the SDM process. Most patients with OA are independent or influenced by their physician when making decisions about OA medication. Higher education and employment among patients with OA are associated with a better involvement in the SDM process for available treatment.
Multifunctional Amino‐Boranes Isomer Room‐Temperature Phosphorescent Material: Multi‐Substrate Multicolor Luminescence, Multi‐Level Anti‐Counterfeiting, Light‐Controlled Data Erasing/Writing, Data Logic Operation, and High Anti‐Laundry Detergent Performance
Authors: Cai Xueqi , Sun Yitong , He Wenjie , Zheng Yifan , Shi Yonggang , Cao Qiue
Published: September 2024

Significant advances are made in understanding the structure‐property relationship in room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials. For example, intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) structural molecules based on electron donors(D) and electron acceptors(A) are an efficient method to achieve RTP. However, the ability to precisely regulate the singlet‐triplet energy gap (ΔEST) through molecular design to control RTP emissions remains constrained. Herein, a group of 4BN‐NP and 5BN‐NP isomers is reported with D and A position isomerization, where 4BN‐NP exhibits a photo‐induced orange afterglow phenomenon in PMMA. Calculations show that the spin‐orbit coupling (SOC) value of 4BN‐NP is greater compared to 5BN‐NP and the intersystem crossing (ISC) channel is more efficient, resulting in a smaller ΔEST value for 4BN‐NP. This indicates that the short ICT channel is more conducive to inducing phosphorescence emission. In addition, compound 4BN‐NP co‐doped with red fluorescent dyes (RhB, Rh6G, and RBNN) in PMMA produces phosphorescence resonance energy transfer (PRET), inducing red afterglow emission. Surprisingly, light‐activated yellow RTP can be obtained by attaching 4BN‐NP with polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) to nylon filaments, and its phosphorescence intensity does not diminish even when it is immersed in water containing detergent solution, thus expanding the prospects of its application in textile encryption.
Arsenene/Ti2CO2 Heterojunction as a Promising Z‐Scheme Photocatalyst for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Hua Ling , Wang Youxi , Li Zhenyu
Published: September 2024

In order to address imminent energy and environmental challenges, photocatalytic water splitting emerges as a promising way for harnessing solar radiation to generate clean chemical energy. 2D arsenene (β‐As) has notable catalytic activity in hydrogen production. Based on first principles calculations and non‐adiabatic molecular dynamics (NAMD) simulations, the β‐As/Ti2CO2 heterojunction is predicted to be a promising Z‐scheme photocatalyst for overall solar water splitting. It has a desirable energy band structure with the valence band maximum of Ti2CO2 and the conduction band minimum of β‐As well below and above the redox potentials of H2O. Both hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) can proceed spontaneously under light irradiation. NAMD simulations confirm that it is a Z‐scheme photocatalyst with fast electron–hole combination dynamics. Instead of by intrinsic electric field, such a fast electron–hole combination is driven by a large nonadiabatic coupling. The heterojunction exhibits strong optical absorption in the visible and ultraviolet regions. The estimated solar‐to‐hydrogen (STH) efficiency limit of β‐As/Ti2CO2 reaches 32%, which is the highest among all β‐As based junctions reported in the literature. These results suggest that β‐As/Ti2CO2 is a promising photocatalyst for achieving overall water splitting.
Phase‐Transition Photonic Brick for Reconfigurable Topological Pathways
Authors: Qin Shi Long , You Jian Wei , Chen Long , Su Jian Lin , Ma Qian , Cui Tie Jun
Published: September 2024

Topological photonic insulators serve as highways for light propagation, enabling photons to be transported with topological protection and enriching the understanding of light‐matter interactions. However, the prohibitive fabrication and non‐reconfigurable functionality of current topological photonics seriously hinder its practical applications. Here, a revolutionary concept of phase‐transition photonic brick is theoretically proposed and experimentally demonstrated, which can be regarded as an ideal building block to develop reconfigurable highways for light propagations. The proposed modular photonic brick not only integrates the inherent benefits of both passive and active topological photonics, but also offers previously unattainable superiority, including flexible scalability, deformability, detachability, and recyclability. Leveraging these benefits, this work provides a groundbreaking topological platform that balances the reconfigurability, multifunctionality, low electrical energy consumption, and low device fabrication cost. By unlocking the potential of recyclable photonic bricks, the work represents a significant step toward realizing the extensive and sustainable practical applications of topological photonics in information processing, computing, communications, and beyond.
Recent Progress and Applications of NanoIR‐AFM in Morphological Characterization of Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Wei Xuewen , Jia Longfei , Duan Bowen , Wang Xinzhou , Du Liting , Li Sunsun , Xu Zhaoyang , Zhao Wenchao
Published: September 2024

Organic solar cells (OSCs) are gaining attention in building‐integrated and agricultural photovoltaics due to their light weight, mechanical flexibility, and low‐cost solution processability. To achieve commercial viability, understanding the relationships between active layer material structure, film morphology, and photovoltaic performance is crucial. Nanoscale infrared spectroscopy coupled with atomic force microscopy (nanoIR‐AFM) offers an advanced characterization of active layer morphology at high resolution to help understand OSC performance. This review outlines recent developments and applications of nanoIR‐AFM in OSC research, detailing its principles, instruments, and functions. Strategies to enhance OSC performance and their morphological characterization by nanoIR‐AFM are discussed, offering insights into active layer evolution and device performance. The review highlights challenges faced by nanoIR‐AFM in OSC applications and highlights its potential role in advancing OSC technology. As nanoIR‐AFM continues to evolve, it will play a critical role in OSC development, providing essential technical means for further progress.
Cost‐Effective and Fully Hardware‐Oriented Reservoir Computing Based on IGZO/HZO Ferroelectric Thin‐Film Transistor with Electrically and Optically Distinguishable States
Authors: Kim Doohyung , Lee Seungjun , Lee Yoonseok , Park Yongjin , Lee Jungwoo , Kim Sungjun
Published: September 2024

Hardware‐based reservoir computing (RC) systems provide benefits like energy efficiency and effective predictability. The implementation of different switching characteristics for the reservoir and readout layers requires the use of different types of devices or additional processing. However, an RC system with distinguishable switching characteristics obtained by changing stimulation on a single device is not identified yet, but it is appealing in terms of process simplicity and efficient processing costs. This study develops an RC system that uses ferroelectric thin‐film transistor (FeTFT) devices with an indium gallium zinc oxide channel and Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 ferroelectric layer for both networks. The nonvolatile FeTFT utilizes the remnant polarization properties of the ferroelectric layer through electrical stimulation, showing stable retention characteristics (104 s) and long‐term potentiation/depression. By using optical stimulation, the volatile FeTFT demonstrates short‐term characteristics, such as paired‐pulse facilitation, and a 4‐bit RC system. This proves that it is possible to meet the functional requirements of both the reservoir and readout networks by simply varying the type of stimulation applied to a single FeTFT. Finally, the fully FeTFT‐based RC system can recognize digit patterns from the Modified National Institute of Standards and Technology database with a high accuracy of 90.5%.
Influence of MXene Interlayer Spacing on the Interaction with Microwave Radiation
Authors: Rakhmanov Roman , Ippolito Stefano , Downes Marley , Inman Alex , AlHourani Jamal , Fitzpatrick James , Gogotsi Yury , Friedman Gary
Published: September 2024

The origin of MXene's excellent electromagnetic shielding performance is not fully understood. MXene films, despite being inhomogeneous at the nanometer scale, are often treated as if they are compared to bulk conductors. It is reasonable to wonder if the treatment of MXene as a homogeneous material remains valid at very small film thickness and if it depends on the interlayer spacing. The goal of the present work is to test if the homogeneous material model is applicable to nanometer‐thin Ti3C2Tx MXene films and, if so, to investigate how the model parameters may depend on variations in MXene interlayer spacings. MXene films containing flakes with interlayer spacing between 1.9 and 5.5 Å have been prepared using various intercalating agents. It is shown that modeling the films as being homogeneous agrees with experimental tests in the microwave frequency range. Microwave conductivity and dielectric constant parameters are estimated for the homogeneous film model by fitting measured results. The direct current (DC) conductivity matches the estimated microwave conductivity on the order of magnitude. A highly effective dielectric constant provides a good fit for the lower conductivity MXene films. Optical absorption agrees with the homogeneous material model of thin films as well.
Cu Substitution Stabilizes Oxygen Redox in High Na Content P3‐Type Na0.75Li0.2Cu0.05Mn0.75O2 Cathode with Unexpected High Energy Density
Authors: Li Yan , Wu Duojie , Zheng Jiening , Gu Meng , Chang Chengkang
Published: September 2024

Oxygen redox enhances the specific energy of sodium cathodes, but the other performance remains unsatisfactory. By introducing Cu into P2 lattice to replace Li cations, P3‐type Na0.75Li0.2Cu0.05Mn0.75O2 with high Na concentration is achieved. This modification induces notable alteration in the lattice structure, specifically increasing the interplanar spacing of NaO6 from 3.6 Å to 3.8 Å. The resultant P3‐type cathode delivers a remarkable capacity of 253 ± 1.3 mAh g−1 with energy density of 680 mWh g−1, setting a benchmark for P3‐type sodium cathodes. The high capacity can be attributed to the activation of Mn3+/ Mn4+ redox pair following Cu substitution. Further investigations confirm that Mn3+/ Mn4+, Cu2+/ Cu3+ and O2−/On− redox pairs all contribute to the high performance. The absence of O vacancy and the reduction in phase transitions enhance the cyclic performance with capacity retention of 86.3% at 0.5C. Additionally, the small diffusion energy barrier (34.6 KJ mol−1) results in a high Na diffusion coefficient (1.332 × 10−9 cm2 s−1), thereby promoting superior rate behavior with a capacity of 200.8± 2.1 mAh g−1 at 5C. These results demonstrate the advantages of the P3‐type Na0.75Li0.2Cu0.05Mn0.75O2 cathode over the other Na cathodes, suggesting high potential for application in high‐energy storage fields.
Advanced 3D Micro‐Electrodes for On‐Chip Zinc‐Ion Micro‐Batteries
Authors: Naresh Nibagani , Zhu Yijia , Luo Jingli , Fan Yujia , Wang Tianlei , Raju Kumar , De Volder Michael , Parkin Ivan P. , Boruah Buddha Deka
Published: September 2024

The development of high‐performance planar micro‐batteries featuring safer, cost‐effective systems is crucial for powering smart devices such as medical implants, micro‐robots, micro‐sensors, and the Internet of Things (IoT). However, current on‐chip micro‐batteries suffer from limited energy density within constrained device footprints due to challenges in effectively loading high‐capacity active materials onto micro‐electrodes. Innovative designs for advanced micro‐electrodes are needed for on‐chip micro‐batteries. This work introduces advanced, highly porous 3D gold (Au) scaffold‐based interdigitated electrodes (IDEs) as current collectors, which enable effective loading of active materials (Zn and polyaniline) without compromising overall conductivity and significantly increase active mass loading. These 3D Au scaffold‐based micro‐batteries (3D P‐ZIMB) offer substantially higher energy storage performance (≈135% enhancement) compared to conventional micro‐batteries (C‐ZIMB) when materials loaded onto flat Au IDEs. Furthermore, the 3D P‐ZIMB demonstrates higher areal capacities (≈35 µAh cm−2) and areal energy (≈31.05 µWh cm−2) than most high‐performance on‐chip micro‐batteries, and it delivers a much higher areal power (≈3584.35 µW cm−2) than high‐performance on‐chip micro‐supercapacitors. In‐depth postmortem investigations reveal that the 3D P‐ZIMB avoids issues like material peeling, sluggish electrolyte ion diffusion, and dendrite formation on the anode, while maintaining identical material morphologies and structural characteristics. Therefore, this study presents a smart strategy to enhance the electrochemical performance of planar micro‐batteries and advance the field of on‐chip micro‐battery research.
Tunable Hybrid Hydrogels of Alginate and Cell‐Derived dECM to Study the Impact of Matrix Alterations on Epithelial‐to‐Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Barros da Silva P. , Zhao Xiaoyu , Bidarra Sílvia J. , Nascimento Diana S. , LaLone Vernon , Lourenço Bianca N. , Paredes Joana , Stevens Molly M. , Barrias C. C.
Published: September 2024

Epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) is crucial for tumor progression, being linked to alterations in the extracellular matrix (ECM). Understanding the ECM's role in EMT can uncover new therapeutic targets, yet replicating these interactions in vitro remains challenging. It is shown that hybrid hydrogels of alginate (ALG) and cell‐derived decellularized ECM (dECM), with independently tunable composition and stiffness, are useful 3D‐models to explore the impact of the breast tumor matrix on EMT. Soft RGD‐ALG hydrogels (200 Pa), used as neutral bulk material, supported mammary epithelial cells morphogenesis without spontaneous EMT, allowing to define the gene, protein, and biochemical profiles of cells at different TGFβ1‐induced EMT states. To mimic the breast tumor composition, dECM from TGFβ1‐activated fibroblasts (adECM) are generated, which shows upregulation of tumor‐associated proteins compared to ndECM from normal fibroblasts. Using hybrid adECM‐ALG hydrogels, it is shown that the presence of adECM induces partial EMT in normal epithelial cells, and amplifes TGF‐β1 effects compared to ALG and ndECM‐ALG. Increasing the hydrogel stiffness to tumor‐like levels (2.5 kPa) have a synergistic effect, promoting a more evident EMT. These findings shed light on the complex interplay between matrix composition and stiffness in EMT, underscoring the utility of dECM‐ALG hydrogels as a valuable in vitro platform for cancer research.
Magnetic Miniature Soft Robot with Reprogrammable Drug‐Dispensing Functionalities: Toward Advanced Targeted Combination Therapy
Authors: Yang Zilin , Xu Changyu , Lee Jia Xin , Lum Guo Zhan
Published: September 2024

Miniature robots are untethered actuators, which have great prospects to transform targeted drug delivery because they can potentially deliver high concentrations of medicine to the disease site(s) with minimal complications. However, existing miniature robots cannot perform advanced targeted combination therapy; majority of them can at most transport one type of drug, while those that can carry multiple drugs are unable to change their drug‐dispensing sequence and dosage. Furthermore, the latter robots cannot transport more than three types of drugs, selectively dispense their drugs, maintain their mobility, or release their drugs at multiple sites. Here, a millimeter‐scale soft robot is proposed, which can be actuated by alternating magnetic fields to dispense four types of drugs with reprogrammable drug‐dispensing sequence and dosage (dispensing rates: 0.0992–0.231 µL h−1). This robot has six degrees‐of‐freedom motions, and it can deliver its drugs to multiple desired sites by rolling and two‐anchor crawling across unstructured environments with negligible drug leakage. Such dexterity is highly desirable and unprecedented for miniature robots with drug‐dispensing capabilities. The soft robot therefore has great potential to enable advanced targeted combination therapy, where four types of drugs must be delivered to various disease sites, each with a specific sequence and dosage of drugs.
Electron Release via Internal Polarization Fields for Optimal S‐H Bonding States
Authors: Seok Hyunho , Kim Minjun , Cho Jinill , Son Sihoon , Megra Yonas Tsegaye , Lee Jinhyoung , Nam Myeong Gyun , Kim Keon‐Woo , Aydin Kubra , Yoo Seong Soo , Lee Hyeonjeong , Kanade Vinit K. , Kim Muyoung , Mun Jihun , Kim Jin Kon , Suk Ji Won , Kim Hyeong‐U , Yoo Pil J. , Kim Taesung
Published: September 2024

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have received considerable attention as promising electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), yet their potential is often constrained by the inertness of the basal planes arising from their poor hydrogen adsorption ability. Here, the relationship between the electronic structure of the WS2 basal plane and HER activity is systemically analyzed to establish a clear insight. The valance state of the sulfur atoms on the basal plane has been tuned to enhance hydrogen adsorption through sequential engineering processes, including direct phase transition and heterostructure that induces work function‐difference‐induced unidirectional electron transfer. Additionally, an innovative synthetic approach, harnessing the built‐in internal polarization field at the W‐graphene heterointerface, triggers the in‐situ formation of sulfur vacancies in the bottom WSx (x < 2) layers. The resultant modulation of the valance state of the sulfur atom stabilizes the W‐S bond, while destabilizing the S‐H bond. The electronic structural changes are further amplified by the release and transfer of surplus electrons via sulfur vacancies, filling the valance state of W and S atoms. Consequently, this work provides a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between the electronic structure of the WS2 basal plane and the HER activity, focusing on optimizing S‐H bonding state.
Importance of Electrostatic Effects for Interpretation of X‐ray Photoemission Spectra of Self‐Assembled Monolayers
Authors: Zharnikov Michael
Published: September 2024

This paper reviews the relevant work regarding electrostatic effects in X‐ray photoemission from self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) which are application‐relevant ultrathin molecular films, coupled over a suitable anchoring group to the substrate. Whereas, in most cases, the standard concept of chemical shift is fully sufficient to describe X‐ray photoelectron spectra of these systems, consideration of electrostatic effects is frequently necessary for their proper interpretation. Due to the insulator character of the SAM matrix, decoupled electronically from the substrate, the introduction of a dipolar ´sheet´ at the SAM‐substrate interface or within this matrix creates a potential discontinuity shifting the energy levels above the ´sheet´ with respect to those below it. This shift is reflected then in the matrix‐related spectra, resulting in shifts and splitting of the characteristic photoemission peaks. Several representative examples in this context are provided and discussed in detail. These examples and other relevant literature data underline the importance of electrostatic effects in photoemission and suggest that they should be considered on the equal footing as the chemical shift ones.
Dielectric Resonators for Microwave Hyperthermia
Authors: Cao Jinqing , Gao Song , Zhang Qian , Liu Yawei , Xu Jianchun , Liu Kai , Bi Ke
Published: September 2024

Hyperthermia, utilizing various types of energy sources such as microwaves, holds great promise for cancer treatment. The intense interaction between microwaves and substances during hyperthermia can produce heat efficiently, leading to the inactivation of cancer cells. Mie‐type resonance is widely studied in the regulation of electromagnetic waves, offering a new perspective for microwave hyperthermia. In this study, a Mie‐type dielectric resonator is reported for microwave hyperthermia using high‐permittivity and temperature‐stable ceramic. The proposed dielectric particles have the characteristics of compact size, low cost, and excellent biocompatibility. The resonant frequency of the system can be finely tuned through material design and arrangement, thus expanding its potential application scenarios. The dielectric particles can be rapidly heated under microwave irradiation, thereby enabling effective hyperthermia to eliminate cancer cells. This work demonstrates the potential of a safe and tunable Mie‐type dielectric resonator in microwave hyperthermia, which is expected to promote further research on Mie‐type resonance in the biomedical field.
Application of Physically Crosslinked Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel in the Treatment of Radiation‐Induced Skin Injury
Authors: Gao Suyue , Zheng Tingyu , Tian Kai , Jia Zou , Xu Wushuang , Wu Pingfan , Cao Shikun , Li Ke , Wu Lijun
Published: September 2024

Wounds caused by radiation exposure are often hard to heal. The functional hydrogel can be used as a wound treatment material of multiple dimensions according to patients' needs. Hyaluronic acid hydrogel can be used to create a moist environment conducive to wound healing. In this study, new complex hydrogels based on physically crosslinked hyaluronic acid are investigated, which adopt the freeze‐thaw technique, loaded with small molecule drugs deferoxamine and retinoic acid, and effectively promote the healing of radiation‐induced skin ulcers. The combined application of deferoxamine and retinoic acid can improve skin injury after radiation, promoting angiogenesis, reducing inflammation, and protecting skin appendages. In vitro and in vivo results show enhanced cell viability and biological function, significantly accelerate healing of the irradiated wounds, and improve collagen deposition in the skin of the irradiated rats. Also, the skin appendages, such as hair follicles, are protected to a certain extent, implying functionally repairing the skin. Considering the ease of use of the hydrogel system in clinical applications, complex hydrogels can be considered a suitable candidate for treating radiation‐induced skin injury.
A Multifunctional Tactile Sensory System for Robotic Intelligent Identification and Manipulation Perception
Authors: Jiang Yue , Fan Lin , Sun Xilong , Luo Zehe , Wang Herong , Lai Rucong , Wang Jie , Gan Qiyang , Li Ning , Tian Jindong
Published: September 2024

Humans recognize and manipulate objects relying on the multidimensional force features captured by the tactile sense of skin during the manipulation. Since the current sensors integrated in robots cannot support the robots to sense the multiple interaction states between manipulator and objects, achieving human‐like perception and analytical capabilities remains a major challenge for service robots. Prompted by the tactile perception involved in robots performing complex tasks, a multimodal tactile sensory system is presented to provide in situ simultaneous sensing for robots when approaching, touching, and manipulating objects. The system comprises a capacitive sensor owning the high sensitivity of 1.11E‐2 pF mm−1, a triboelectricity nanogenerator with the fast response speed of 30 ms, and a pressure sensor array capable of 3D force detection. By Combining transfer learning models, which fuses multimodal tactile information to achieve high‐precision (up to 95%) recognition of the multi‐featured targets such as random hardness and texture information under random sampling conditions, including random grasp force and velocity. This sensory system is expected to enhance the intelligent recognition and behavior‐planning capabilities of autonomous robots when performing complex tasks in undefined surrounding environments.
Two‐Dimensional Atomically Thin Piezoelectric Nanosheets for Efficient Pyroptosis‐Dominated Sonopiezoelectric Cancer Therapy
Authors: Deng Ruxi , Ren Chunrong , Song Xinran , Wei Wuyang , Wang Hai , Nie Quanyu , Liu Ying , Li Pan , Ding Li , Chang Meiqi , Chen Yu , Zhou Yang
Published: September 2024

Sonopiezocatalytic therapy is an emerging therapeutic strategy that utilizes ultrasound irradiation to activate piezoelectric materials, inducing polarization and energy band bending to facilitate the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, the efficient generation of ROS is hindered by the long distance of charge migration from the bulk to the material surface. Herein, atomically thin Bi2O2(OH)(NO3) (AT‐BON) nanosheets are rationally engineered through disrupting the weaker hydrogen bonds within the [OH] and [NO3] layer in the bulk material. The ultrathin structure of AT‐BON piezocatalytic nanosheets shortens the migration distance of carriers, expands the specific surface area, and accelerates the charge transfer efficiency, showcasing a natural advantage in ROS generation. Importantly, the non‐centrosymmetric polar crystal structure grants the nanosheets the ability to separate electron‐hole pairs. Under ultrasonic mechanical stress, Bi2O2(OH)(NO3) nanosheets with the remarkable piezoelectric feature exhibit the desirable in vivo antineoplastic outcomes in both breast cancer model and liver cancer model. Especially, the AT‐BON‐induced ROS bursts lead to the activation of the Caspase‐1‐driven pyroptosis pathway. This study highlights the beneficial impact of bulk material thinning on enhancing ROS generation efficiency and anti‐cancer effects.