bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermodynamic prediction of vapor pressures for polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, polychlorinated dibenzofurans, and polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins
Authors: Li Xian-Wei , Shibata Etsuro , Nakamura Takashi
Published: August 2005

The vapor pressures and thermal properties of nonmeasured polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and seven polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PBDDs) were predicted using a correlation method based on the experimental vapor pressures for 22 PCDD/Fs and octabrominated dibenzo-p-dioxin obtained by the Knudsen effusion method. The vapor pressures of all 59 PCDDs and 131 PCDFs predicted in the present study were more or less higher than the data predicted by Rordorf, although the calculation method was the same. For the most toxic 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin, the vapor pressure at 298 K predicted in the present study was 6.2 × 10−6 Pa, which was 31-fold higher than the value provided by Rordorf (2.0 × 10−7 Pa). The predicted vapor pressures for low-brominated PBDDs agreed with the data estimated by Rordorf. For 2,3,7,8-tetrabrominated dibenzo-p-dioxin, the vapor pressure predicted in the present study was 1.8 × 10˜8 Pa, obviously lower than those predicted by Rordorf.
Body distribution of trace elements in black-tailed gulls from Rishiri Island, Japan: Age-dependent accumulation and transfer to feathers and eggs
Authors: Agusa Tetsuro , Matsumoto Taro , Ikemoto Tokutaka , Anan Yasumi , Kubota Reiji , Yasunaga Genta , Kunito Takashi , Tanabe Shinsuke , Ogi Haruo , Shibata Yasuyuki
Published: August 2005

Body distribution and maternal transfer of 18 trace elements (V, Cr, Mn, Co, Cu, Zn, Se, Rb, Sr, Mo, Ag, Cd, Sb, Cs, Ba, Hg, Tl, and Pb) to eggs were examined in black-tailed gulls (Larus crassirostris), which were culled in Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan. Manganese, Cu, Rb, Mo, and Cd showed the highest levels in liver and kidney, Ag, Sb, and Hg in feather, and V, Sr, and Pb in bone. Maternal transfer rates of trace elements ranged from 0.8% (Cd) to as much as 65% (Tl) of maternal body burden. Large amounts of Sr, Ba, and Tl were transferred to the eggs, though maternal transfer rates of V, Cd, Hg, and Pb were substantially low. It also was observed that Rb, Sr, Cd, Cs, and Ba hardly were excreted into feathers. Concentrations of Co in liver, Ba in liver and kidney, and Mo in liver increased significantly with age, whereas Se in bone and kidney, Hg in kidney, and Cr in feather decreased with age in the known-aged black-tailed gulls (2–20 years old). It also was suggested that feathers might be useful to estimate contamination status of trace elements in birds, especially for Hg on a population basis, although the utility is limited on an individual basis for the black-tailed gulls. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the maternal transfer rate of multielements and also on the usefulness of feathers to estimate contamination status of Hg in birds on a population basis.
Complete elimination of carbonates: A critical step in the accurate measurement of organic and black carbon in sediments
Authors: Lukasewycz Marta T. , Burkhard Lawrence P.
Published: August 2005

Accurate measurement of organic carbon (OC) and black carbon (BC) in sediments requires the complete removal of coexisting inorganic carbonates from the sample before instrumental analysis. The removal of carbonates from sediments is achieved with acidification, which causes the dissolution and decomposition of carbonates with accompanying effervescence. This effervescence, or the lack of it, is commonly used as an indicator for the presence or absence of carbonates. We have found that the lack of effervescence endpoint used with the direct acidification method (adding aliquots of acid to samples) is not a reliable indicator for complete removal of carbonates from sediment samples. The ineffectiveness of the lack of effervescence endpoint, we believe, is caused by the presence of carbonates with dissolution rates much slower than those of calcite, resulting in much slower rates of visible effervescence. We propose and demonstrate a method for determining the amount of acid required for complete elimination of all carbonates using Lake Michigan (USA) sediment samples. Based on our experiences with the lack of effervescence endpoint, we recommend that in any scheme for analysis of OC and/or BC, a minimum of two samples be treated with three different levels of acidification, with the lowest level being the same as that planned for all the OC and/or BC analyses. There can be no significant differences among the OC and BC contents measured using the three different levels of acidification.
Meta-analysis of intrinsic rates of increase and carrying capacity of populations affected by toxic and other stressors
Authors: Hendriks A. Jan , Maas-Diepeveen Johanna L. M. , Heugens Evelyn H. W. , van Straalen Nico M.
Published: August 2005

Most of the thousands of substances and species that are of concern for environmental management will not be investigated empirically at ecologically relevant levels because of financial, practical, and ethical constraints. To allow risk assessment for these less well-known categories, we have developed a mechanistic model with classical equations from toxicology and ecology. The parameters are linked to well-known properties, such as the octanol-water partition ratio Kow, acute lethal (body) concentrations, and organism size. This allows estimation of intrinsic rates of increase r and carrying capacity K over a wide range of substances and species. The model was calibrated with parameter values (μ ± 95% confidence interval) obtained in reviews and validated by a meta-analysis with largely independent data from 200 laboratory experiments. For single substances, the 5 to 95% interval of the observations on intrinsic rates of increase overlapped with the range predicted by the model. Model and experiments independently indicated that population growth ceased below 1% of the acute median lethal concentration in about 5% of the cases. Exceptional values and possible explanations were identified. The reduction of the carrying capacity K was nearly proportional to the inhibition of the population growth r. Population-level effects of mixtures as estimated by concentration addition were confirmed by observations in the experiments. The impact of a toxicant and another stressor could generally be described by response multiplication, with the exception of cases with extreme stress. Data sets on population laboratory experiments are biased to metals and crustaceans. This field will benefit from empirical studies on chemicals, conditions, and species, identified as risky by the model. Other implications of the model for environmental management and research are discussed.
Racial and Socioeconomic Differences in the Weight-Loss Experiences of Obese Women
Authors: Davis Esa M. , Clark Jeanne M. , Carrese Joseph A. , Gary Tiffany L. , Cooper Lisa A.
Published: August 2005

Focus groups stratified by race and socioeconomic status were used to examine obese women’s experiences with weight-loss methods. Six themes emerged: failure of weight maintenance, use of psychological and spiritual approaches, role of family influences and societal expectations, role of African American subculture, method affordability, and racial differences in weight-loss methods. Tailored weight-management interventions for women, particularly African Americans and those of low socioeconomic status, should account for features of African American subculture and address affordability concerns, include maintenance strategies that incorporate psychological and spiritual principles, and target family attitudes and behaviors.
Nutritional Content of Foods Advertised During the Television Programs Children Watch Most
Authors: Harrison Kristen , Marske Amy L.
Published: August 2005

Objectives. We sought to code food (nutritional content and food type and eating occasion) and character (cartoon and live action) attributes of food advertisements airing during television programs heavily viewed by children, and to represent and evaluate the nutritional content of advertised foods in terms of the nutrition facts label.

Methods. Food advertisements (n=426) aimed at general and child audiences were coded for food and character attributes. “Nutrition Facts” label data for advertised foods (n=275) were then analyzed.

Results. Convenience/fast foods and sweets comprised 83% of advertised foods. Snacktime eating was depicted more often than breakfast, lunch, and dinner combined. Apparent character body size was unrelated to eating behavior. A 2000-calorie diet of foods in the general-audience advertisements would exceed recommended daily values (RDVs) of total fat, saturated fat, and sodium. A similar diet of foods in the child-audience advertisements would exceed the sodium RDV and provide 171 g (nearly 1 cup) of added sugar.

Conclusions. Snack, convenience, and fast foods and sweets continue to dominate food advertisements viewed by children. Advertised foods exceed RDVs of fat, saturated fat, and sodium, yet fail to provide RDVs of fiber and certain vitamins and minerals.
Diagnosis and Management of Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia
Authors: Peng Gary , Zei Paul C.
Published: February 2024

Importance

Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT), defined as tachyarrhythmias that originate from or conduct through the atria or atrioventricular node with abrupt onset, affects 168 to 332 per 100 000 individuals. Untreated PSVT is associated with adverse outcomes including high symptom burden and tachycardia-mediated cardiomyopathy.

Observations

Approximately 50% of patients with PSVT are aged 45 to 64 years and 67.5% are female. Most common symptoms include palpitations (86%), chest discomfort (47%), and dyspnea (38%). Patients may rarely develop tachycardia-mediated cardiomyopathy (1%) due to PSVT. Diagnosis is made on electrocardiogram during an arrhythmic event or using ambulatory monitoring. First-line acute therapy for hemodynamically stable patients includes vagal maneuvers such as the modified Valsalva maneuver (43% effective) and intravenous adenosine (91% effective). Emergent cardioversion is recommended for patients who are hemodynamically unstable. Catheter ablation is safe, highly effective, and recommended as first-line therapy to prevent recurrence of PSVT. Meta-analysis of observational studies shows single catheter ablation procedure success rates of 94.3% to 98.5%. Evidence is limited for the effectiveness of long-term pharmacotherapy to prevent PSVT. Nonetheless, guidelines recommend therapies including calcium channel blockers, β-blockers, and antiarrhythmic agents as management options.

Conclusion and Relevance

Paroxysmal SVT affects both adult and pediatric populations and is generally a benign condition. Catheter ablation is the most effective therapy to prevent recurrent PSVT. Pharmacotherapy is an important component of acute and long-term management of PSVT.
Diagnosis of Skin Disease
Authors: Coulson Ian H. , Benton Emma C. , Ogden Stephanie
Published: February 2024

The chapter covers the essential points of history taking and clinical examination critical to the accurate diagnosis of skin disease. It evaluates the simple bedside investigations such as Wood’s light examination, microscopy and imaging options that can supplement clinical skills. Recent digital additions to skin evaluation such as smartphone applications and artificial intelligence are outlined
Epidemiology of Skin Disease
Authors: Williams Hywel C. , Langan Sinéad M.
Published: February 2024

As well as quantifying the burden of skin disease, epidemiology provides a direct method for assessing the causes of skin diseases. Identification of causes is a necessary step in pursuing the ultimate goal of disease prevention. This chapter covers the importance of thinking in terms of population rather than individuals, and provides a summary of the substantial global morbidity caused by skin disease. Risk factors from genetics to environment are outlined, along with describing the natural history and associations of common skin diseases. Finally, there is a description of how the principles and data from epidemiological studies provide the cornerstone to planning appropriate dermatology services. The chapter closes by providing the reader with a glossary of terms and a checklist to help with reading epidemiological studies.
Genetics and the Skin
Authors: McGrath John A.
Published: February 2024

The science and clinical application of genetics to patients with skin diseases continues to evolve rapidly. In this chapter, recent advances in human genetics relevant to dermatologists are reviewed. The content also covers access to modern databases linked to human disease, new findings on disease mutations, updates on investigative genetic techniques, and outlines advances in how to diagnose genetic skin diseases, both rare and common. Recent progress in prenatal diagnosis is also presented.
Inflammation, Immunology and Allergy
Authors: Haniffa Muzlifah
Published: February 2024

The skin is the largest barrier organ in the human body. The anatomy and composition of the human skin enables it to perform its function to protect us from external environmental challenges, including ultraviolet irradiation, temperature variation, mechanical force and microbial challenge. This chapter details our understanding of the cellular components of the human skin including the immune cells that form the skin immune network in health, following perturbation and skin disease. We chart the advancement in our knowledge of the human skin through the application of a range of technological platforms from immunohistochemistry to cutting‐edge single cell and spatial omics technologies. The chapter summarises our understanding of how the skin immune network interfaces with systemic immune responses via the peripheral blood circulation and lymphatic drainage from the skin to draining lymph nodes. In addition, we address the differences between the human and mouse skin immune networks, the role of the microbiota in health and disease as well as recent concepts of inflammation that have altered our understanding of homeostasis, repair and healing and disease.
Inherited Acantholytic Disorders
Authors: Zamiri Mozheh
Published: February 2024

Darier disease (DD) and Hailey–Hailey disease (HHD) are autosomal dominant disorders characterised by epidermal acantholysis. They have a similar molecular pathogenesis, with mutations in intracellular calcium pumps of the endoplasmic reticulum (
SERCA2
) and Golgi (
SPCA1
), respectively. DD presents with persistent, hyperkeratotic papules in a seborrhoeic distribution, associated with nail changes and palmar pitting. HHD presents with painful, mainly flexural, erosions. In both, secondary infection is common and hypertrophic flexural disease can be disabling. Histologically, both are characterised by loss of epidermal intercellular adhesion (acantholysis). DD may be accompanied by neuropsychiatric symptoms such as depression, epilepsy, learning disabilities or bipolar disease. First line topical treatment is with emollients, antimicrobials and corticosteroids. Oral antibiotics are often necessary for exacerbations; other systemic options include retinoids and ciclosporin. Physical measures such as laser resurfacing, photodynamic therapy, botulinum toxin and surgical interventions can be considered in refractory cases.
Genetic Blistering Diseases
Authors: McGrath John A.
Published: February 2024

The integrity of the skin is maintained by complex networks of structural and non‐structural proteins within the epidermis, epidermal basement membrane zone and upper dermis. Disruption to the function of any one of these integral proteins through inherited gene mutations can make the skin less resilient to trauma and more prone to blister formation. This chapter provides an overview of key proteins involved in skin integrity and outlines the spectrum of blistering diseases linked to abnormalities therein. The text also describes approaches to diagnosis of inherited blistering diseases, as well as innovative therapies which try to reduce blistering and improve skin function.
Pruritus, Prurigo and Lichen Simplex
Authors: Ständer Sonja , Yosipovitch Gil
Published: February 2024

Chronic pruritus is a common, complex dermatological symptom that has a profound impact on patients and society. It is highly prevelant in the majority of inflammatory skin diseases as well as in bullous autoimmune dermatoses, cutaneous lymphoma, cutaneous drug reactions and ageing skin. Chronic pruritus is also common in non‐dermatological diseases such as advanced stages of chronic kidney disease, hepatobiliary diseases and lymphoproliferative disorders, as well as neuropathies and disorders with psychogenic causes. The pathophysiology is complex and involves many itch mediators and receptors that differ between the diseases, with common neuronal pathways. The majority of types of chronic itch are transmitted by non‐histamnergic nerve fibres. In many inflammatory skin diseases a cross‐talk exists between keratinocytes, the immune system and sensory nerves. The pruritus characteristics of itch and therapy targets may differ between the different aetiological entities, but the impact on quality of life, sleep and psychosocial burden is common to all patients.
Rosacea
Authors: van Zuuren Esther J. , Tan Jerry , van der Linden Mireille M. D. , Schaller Martin
Published: February 2024

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the cheeks, chin, nose, forehead and frequently the eyes. Recent advances have emphasised the roles of the innate and adaptive immune systems and neurovascular dysregulation underlying the spectrum of clinical features of rosacea. This chapter covers the phenotype‐based diagnosis and classification system as well as management options based on the latest evidence. Recommendations for management of paediatric rosacea and management of pregnant or lactating women are included. Furthermore, differential diagnoses and facial dermatoses with an uncertain nosological relationship to rosacea will be discussed.
Non‐Inflammatory Disorders of Subcutaneous Fat
Authors: Lee Grace L. , Garg Amit , Chen Amy Y.‐Y.
Published: February 2024

This chapter addresses principally non‐inflammatory acquired disorders of subcutaneous fat with an emphasis on acquired lipodystrophy, fat hypertrophy, subcutaneous lipomatosis and lipoedema. Acquired lipodystrophy may be associated with other medical conditions and may occur as a result of antiretroviral therapy, total body irradiation or haematopoietic stem cell transplant, or injection of medications. Some of the subcutaneous lipodermatoses may have a genetic component. Also included in the discussion are conditions such as cellulite and skin conditions related to obesity. For each of these acquired disorders, relevant pathophysiology, methods of diagnosis and management options are discussed.
Benign Keratinocytic Acanthomas and Proliferations
Authors: Seaton Edward , Madan Vishal
Published: February 2024

Acanthomas are benign proliferations of keratinocytes. Histological features include acanthosis, hyperkeratosis, dyskeratosis and acantholysis. Seborrhoeic keratosis is very common, appears in mid‐life and affects the majority of older adults. Clinical and dermoscopic features are characteristic. Certain somatic mutations are common, but the lesions are genetically stable and not premalignant. Surgery and cryotherapy are effective. Stucco keratosis is a variant in which white hyperkeratotic papules occur on the limbs in older adults. The dermatosis papulosa nigra variant occurs mostly in pigmented skin on the face. Warty dyskeratoma is rare and presents as a cup‐shaped nodule with a keratotic plug with dyskeratosis and acantholysis. Clear cell acanthoma is a red, dome‐shaped papule often on a lower limb with glycogen‐containing cells. Lichenoid keratosis is a solitary pink or brown plaque, mimicking other lesions. Pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia is a reactive epidermal proliferation occurring secondary to inflammatory or neoplastic conditions that mimics squamous cell carcinoma.
Racial and Ethnic Composition of Populations Served by Freestanding Children's Hospitals and Disparities in Outcomes of Pediatric Lupus
Authors: Chang Joyce C. , Liu Jessica P. , Berbert Laura M. , Chandler Mia T. , Patel Pooja N. , Smitherman Emily A. , Weller Edie A. , Son Mary Beth F. , Costenbader Karen H.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Health disparities may be driven by hospital‐level factors. We assessed whether racial and ethnic composition of populations hospitals serve explain or modify disparities in hospital outcomes of children with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study of patients 5 to 26 years old with SLE at 47 children's hospitals in the Pediatric Health Information System (2006–2021), race and ethnicity were assessed at the patient level and hospital level (proportion of total admissions composed of Black or Hispanic patients, respectively). Outcomes included intensive care unit (ICU) admission or adverse renal outcome (end‐stage renal disease, dialysis, or transplant) during follow‐up. We estimated racial and ethnic disparities, adjusted or stratified by hospital racial or ethnic composition.

Results

Of 8,125 patients with SLE, 2,293 (28%) required ICU admission, and 698 (9%) had an adverse renal outcome. Black and non‐Hispanic White disparities in ICU admission were observed only at hospitals serving higher proportions of Black patients (odds ratio [OR] 1.29, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.04–1.59 vs OR 1.07, 95% CI 0.83–1.38). Larger Black and non‐Hispanic White disparities in adverse renal outcomes were observed at hospitals with higher Black racial composition (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.4–2.8 vs OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.1–2.4). Conversely, Hispanic versus non‐Hispanic disparities in renal outcomes persisted after adjustment for hospital‐reported Hispanic ethnic composition but were observed only at hospitals with lower proportions of Hispanic patients.

Conclusion

Worse Black and White disparities in SLE outcomes are observed at children's hospitals serving more Black children, whereas distinct patterns are observed for Hispanic and non‐Hispanic disparities. Reporting of hospital characteristics related to populations served is needed to identify modifiable drivers of hospital‐level variation.
Neural network‐based output‐feedback adaptive control for a class of uncertain strict feedback fractional‐order nonlinear systems subject to input saturation
Authors: Rabahi Zoubir , Daoudi Islem , Chemachema Mohamed
Published: February 2024

This paper presents neural networks (NNs) adaptive controller for an uncertain fractional‐order nonlinear system in strict‐feedback form, subject to input saturation, unavailable states for measurement, and external disturbances. The fractional‐order adaptive laws are derived based only on the output tracking error thanks to the implementation of the strictly positive real (SPR) property, differently from the existing results in the literature of fractional‐order strict‐feedback systems where all system states are used in the adaptive laws. The proposed design approach addresses the nonaffine nature of the control input due to saturation nonlinearity by using the mean value theorem and follows a nonrecursive design by using a state transformation where the advantage is twofold. First, it eliminates the explosion complexity found in back‐stepping control‐based approaches design, and second, it reduces the approximators units and parameters in controller implementation. Furthermore, an observer is introduced to estimate the unavailable newly defined states, and then an output adaptive feedback control design is ensured. An NN is used to approximate the unknown ideal control law, and an auxiliary control term is appended to deal with saturation effect, unknown disturbance, and approximation errors. The tracking error is proved to converge asymptotically to a bounded set using the Lyapunov theory. Simulation results on three examples show the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Feasibility of Melting NbC Using Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Wennersten Karin , Xu Jinghao , Armakavicius Nerijus , Wiberg Anton , Nadali Najafabadi Hossain , Moverare Johan
Published: February 2024

High melting point materials such as ceramics and metal carbides are in general difficult to manufacture due to their physical properties, which imposes the need for new manufacturing methods where electron beam powder bed fusion (EB‐PBF) seems promising. Most materials that have been successfully printed with EB‐PBF are metals and metal alloys with good electrical conductivity, whereas dielectric materials such as ceramics are generally difficult to print. Catastrophic problems such as smoking and spattering can occur during the EB‐PBF processing owing to inappropriate physical properties such as lack of electrical, and thermal conductivity and high melting point, which are challenging to overcome by process optimization. Due to these difficulties, a limited level of understanding has been achieved regarding melting ceramics and refractory alloys. Herein, three different substrates of niobium carbide (NbC) are melted using EB‐PBF. The established process parameter window shows a good correlation between EB‐PBF process parameters, surface, and melt characteristics, which can be used as a baseline for a printing process. Melting NbC is proven feasible using EB‐PBF; the work also points out challenges related to arc trips and spattering, as well as future investigations necessary to create a stable printing process.
Fabrication of Highly Efficient and Ambient Stable Planar MAPbI3 Perovskite Solar Cells via Defect Passivation through Crosslinking Strategy
Authors: Das Tapas , Kumar Arun , Rani Sonia , Guchhait Asim , Ghosh Dhriti Sundar
Published: February 2024

Iodine‐based hybrid planar perovskite solar cells’ (PSCs) overall performance is still very limited. In this work, a highly functionalized iodine‐based hybrid perovskite layer is fabricated by incorporating trimethylolpropane ethoxylated triacrylate (TET) within the perovskite precursor, which can crosslink with the grain boundaries to improve the crystallinity as well as the grain size and passivate the defect states of the perovskite material. The MAPbI3‐based thin films with TET exhibited large grain sizes from 195.73 to 587.49 nm with 8 mg mL−1 of TET concentration. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) elemental mapping, photoluminescence (PL), and time resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) characterization results suggest the strong crosslinking effect between TET and MAPbI3, which improves the crystallinity and reduces the charge trap density. Planar PSCs is fabricated with the device architecture fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO)/c‐TiO2/MAPbI3:TET/Spiro‐MeOTAD/Au and achieved a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 14.75% under 1.5 AM light illumination. The fabricated PSCs shows excellent ambient stability which retains 80% of their PCE after being exposed to the ambient environment of relative humidity (RH) ≈60%, room temperature (RT) ≈27 °C without any encapsulation.
High‐Performance Te Nanowires/MoS2/Polyimine Nanocomposite‐Based Self‐Healable, Recyclable and Screen‐Printable Flexible Photodetector for Image Sensing
Authors: Peng Hongyun , Li Huiqiao , Guo Erjuan , Zhai Tianyou
Published: February 2024

Intrinsically flexible photodetectors are compelling building blocks for next‐generation wearable optoelectronic systems owing to their distinctive advantages of reliable structural durability and versatile scalability for large‐scale production. However, their practical applications are still impeded by the inferior photodetection performance, irreversible device failure after breakage, and serious e‐waste accumulation after service life. Herein, a high‐performance intrinsically flexible, mechanically durable, self‐healable, closed‐loop recyclable, and screen‐printable Te NWs/MoS2 nanosheets/polyimine nanocomposite‐based photodetector are designed by engineering‐ordered‐bridged 1D/2D carrier percolation “fast lanes” in dynamic covalent polyimine matrix via a flow‐designed solution‐shearing method. Such a design provides a sixfold, 20.1‐fold, and 6.9‐fold enhancement in carrier mobility, responsivity (11.68 mA W−1), and detectivity (1.145 × 1010 Jones), respectively, as well as stable photoresponse over eight months or after 50 000 bending‐flattening times. Meanwhile, this photodetector presents excellent self‐healing efficiency and repeatable recyclability for device reconfiguration. Furthermore, these merits can be fully integrated onto textile by assembling nacre‐like Te NWs/MoS2/polyimine nanocomposite coatings on textiles via screen‐printing processes, enabling programmable patterning of photodetection arrays for large‐area image sensing. This work provides a viable approach for the design of shape‐tunable optoelectronics with reliable mechanical durability and customizable functionalities, demonstrating the tremendous potential for large‐scale applications in wearable optoelectronic systems.
A H+/Li+ Ion Exchange Induced Spinel Ion‐Conductive Interphase Stabilizes 4.5 V LiCoO2 in Sulfide‐Based All‐Solid‐State Lithium Battery
Authors: Feng Li , Chen Zhaoxin , Zhang Minghao , Zhang Shaojian , Zheng Jianhui , Xiao Denghai , Liu Chenyu , Lin Zhan
Published: February 2024

All‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLIBs) show significant promise as the next‐generation energy technology due to their high energy density and inherent safety. However, the severe interface reactions between solid electrolyte and the high‐voltage cathodes pose a major challenge, particularly at higher charge voltages. Herein, a H3PO4‐triggered H+/Li+ exchange strategy is proposed to covert LiCoO2 (LCO) surface to spinel Co3O4/Li3PO4 ionic‐conductive interphase. This spinel interphase presents a thickness of 15 nm and good affinity with LCO, which provides long‐lasting protection to suppress interfacial parasitic reactions. Besides, both spinel Co3O4 and amorphous Li3PO4 feature high ionic conductivity compared to bulk LCO, thereby facilitating the interfacial ionic transportation. With such modification, ASSLIBs delivers high specific capacity (146.2 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C), outstanding rate performance (116.4 mAh g−1 at 2 C), and long‐term cyclability (350 cycles at 0.5 C) under a cut‐off voltage of 4.3 V versus Li/Li+. Moreover, this robust spinel interphase further improves the stable cycling (168.9 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C for 100 cycles) under elevated cut‐off voltage (4.5 V vs Li/Li+). This finding highlights the H+/Li+ exchange to convert LCO surface to a spinel ionic‐conductive interphase, which poses new insights for interface design in ASSLIBs.
Data‐Driven Screening of Pivotal Subunits in Edge‐Anchored Single Atom Catalysts for Oxygen Reactions
Authors: Ye Qitong , Yi Xingxing , Wang Cai‐Zhuang , Zhang Tao , Liu Yipu , Lin Shiwei , Fan Hong Jin
Published: February 2024

Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are key reactions in diverse energy conversion devices, highlighting the importance of efficient catalysts. Edge‐anchored single atom catalysts (E‐SACs) emerge as a special class of atomic structure, but the detailed configuration and its correlation with catalytic activity remain little explored. Herein, a total of 78 E‐SACs (E‐TM‐Nx‐C) have been constructed based on 26 transition metal (TM) species with three coordination patterns. Using structural stability and ORR/OER catalytic activity as the evaluation criteria, a few catalytic structures comparable to Pt (111) for ORR and IrO2 (110) for OER are screened based on high‐throughput calculations. The screening results unveil that the E‐Rh‐N4‐C configuration exhibits most efficient bifunctional activity for both ORR and OER with an overpotential of 0.38 and 0.61 V, respectively. Electronic structure analysis confirms the distinctive edge effects on the electronic properties of TM and N species, and the feature importance derived from machine learning illustrates the efficacy of E‐TM‐Nx subunit configuration in determining the catalytic activity of E‐SACs. Finally, the trained Gradient Boosting Regression (GBR) model exhibits acceptable accuracy in predicting the OH intermediates adsorption strength for E‐SACs, thereby paving the way for expanding catalytic structures based on E‐SACs.
Probing Hyperbolic Shear Polaritons in β‐Ga2O3 Nanostructures Using STEM‐EELS
Authors: Zhang Zhenyu , Wang Tao , Jiang Hailing , Qi Ruishi , Li Yuehui , Wang Jinlin , Sheng Shanshan , Li Ning , Shi Ruochen , Wei Jiaqi , Liu Fang , Zhang Shengnan , Huo Xiaoqing , Du Jinlong , Zhang Jingmin , Xu Jun , Rong Xin , Gao Peng , Shen Bo , Wang Xinqiang
Published: February 2024

Phonon polaritons, quasiparticles arising from strong coupling between electromagnetic waves and optical phonons, have potential for applications in subdiffraction imaging, sensing, thermal conduction enhancement, and spectroscopy signal enhancement. A new class of phonon polaritons in low‐symmetry monoclinic crystals, hyperbolic shear polaritons (HShPs), have been verified recently in β‐Ga2O3 by free electron laser (FEL) measurements. However, detailed behaviors of HShPs in β‐Ga2O3 nanostructures still remain unknown. Here, by using monochromatic electron energy loss spectroscopy in conjunction with scanning transmission electron microscopy, the experimental observation of multiple HShPs in β‐Ga2O3 in the mid‐infrared (MIR) and far‐infrared (FIR) ranges is reported. HShPs in various β‐Ga2O3 nanorods and a β‐Ga2O3 nanodisk are excited. The frequency‐dependent rotation and shear effect of HShPs reflect on the distribution of EELS signals. The propagation and reflection of HShPs in nanostructures are clarified by simulations of electric field distribution. These findings suggest that, with its tunable broad spectral HShPs, β‐Ga2O3 is an excellent candidate for nanophotonic applications.
22% Record Efficiency in Nanorod Light‐Emitting Diodes Achieved by Gradient Shells
Authors: Zeng Yicheng , Liu Xiaonan , Liu Yuan , Chen Weiwei , Liu Fangze , Li Hongbo
Published: February 2024

The external quantum efficiency (EQE) in light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) based on isotropic quantum dots has approached the theoretical limit of close to 20%. Anisotropic nanorods can break this limit by taking advantage of their directional emission. However, the progress towards higher EQE by using CdSe/CdS nanorods (NRs) faces several challenges, primarily involving the low quantum yield and unbalanced charge injection in devices. Herein, the seeded growth method is modified and anisotropic nanorods are obtained with photoluminescence quantum yield up to 98% by coating a gradient alloyed CdZnSe shell around conventional spherical CdSe seeds. This intermediate alloyed CdZnSe shell combined with a subsequent rod‐shaped CdZnS/ZnS shell can effectively suppress the electron delocalization in the typical CdSe/CdS nanorods due to their small conduction bandgap offset. Additionally, this alloyed shell can reduce the hole‐injection barrier and create a larger barrier for electron injection, both effects promoting a balanced injection of electrons and holes in LEDs. Hence, LEDs are reached with high brightness (160341 cd m−2) and high efficiency (EQE = 22%, current efficiency = 23.19 cd A−1), which are the highest values to date for nanorod LEDs.
Switchable Anisotropic/Isotropic Photon Transport in a Double‐Dipole Metal–Organic Framework via Radical‐Controlled Energy Transfer
Authors: Xiong Zhile , Li Yunbin , Yuan Zhen , Liang Jiashuai , Wang Shuaiqi , Yang Xue , Xiang Shengchang , Lv Yuanchao , Chen Banglin , Zhang Zhangjing
Published: February 2024

Directional control of photon transport at micro/nanoscale holds great potential in developing multifunctional optoelectronic devices. Here, the switchable anisotropic/isotropic photon transport is reported in a double‐dipole metal–organic framework (MOF) based on radical‐controlled energy transfer. Double‐dipole MOF microcrystals with transition dipole moments perpendicular to each other have been achieved by the pillared‐layer coordination strategy. The energy transfer between the double dipolar chromophores can be modulated by the photogenerated radicals, which permits the in situ switchable output on both polarization (isotropy/anisotropy state) and wavelength information (blue/red‐color emission). On this basis, the original MOF microcrystal with isotropic polarization state displays the isotropic photon transport and similar reabsorption losses at various directions, while the radical‐affected MOF microcrystal with anisotropic polarization state shows the anisotropic photon transport with distinct reabsorption losses at different directions, finally leading to the in situ switchable anisotropic/isotropic photon transport. These results offer a novel strategy for the development of MOF‐based photonic devices with tunable anisotropic performance.
Manganese (II) Halides for X‐Ray Imaging and Moisture Detection
Authors: Jiang Rui , Peng Guoqiang , Li Qijun , Wang Haoxu , Ci Zhipeng , Wang Qian
Published: February 2024

Organic–inorganic hybrid metal halides are widely used in X‐ray detection and imaging due to their high X‐ray absorption efficiency, ease of synthesis, and efficient luminescence. However, the issue of lead toxicity remains a concern. In this study, non‐toxic, 0D 2,2′‐(Ethylenedioxy)bis(ethylamine) manganese (II) bromide (EDBEMnBr4) is synthesized using the simple mechanical grinding method and the solution method that exhibits intense green emission at ≈525 nm. Moreover, the change of structure under the influence of temperature and water significantly affects its fluorescence color under UV light. Scintillator materials with and without moisture exposure showed spatial resolutions of 7 and 4 lp mm−1, and low detection limits of 4.62 and 5.25 µGyair s−1, respectively, meeting medical industry standards (<5.5 µGyair s−1). Furthermore, based on the apparent change in luminescence color triggered by moisture for EDBEMnBr4, a preliminary attempt is made to apply it to humidity monitoring showing that the boundary of color change has a good linear dependence on humidity and time. This work provides new opportunities for Mn‐based metal halides in both X‐ray detection as well as moisture detection.
Numerical and experimental investigation of the unexpected thickening effect during PolyActive™ coating of TFC membranes
Authors: Brennecke Florian , Clodt Juliana , Brinkmann Torsten , Abetz Volker
Published: February 2024

In this work, we used a previously described computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model of a roll‐to‐roll coating process for the fabrication of thin‐film composite membranes to predict the final coating thickness for PolyActive™, a commercially available multiblock copolymer utilized for CO2 removal membranes. We found a strong thickening effect that could not be explained by our previous model. We investigated the process experimentally. In addition, we conducted a variety of simulations with extensions of the initial CFD model. Based on our findings, we conclude that the Marangoni effect, that is, gradients of surface tension that induce secondary flow patterns in the meniscus region, is the most likely source of the observed thickening. We explain the simulation results in order to understand the physical mechanisms at play and to show how especially surface tension gradients that arise from the particular flow structure in the meniscus may explain the additional transfer of polymer solution to the membrane. Finally, we draw some conclusions on future research and give ideas on future improvements of the process. To our knowledge, Marangoni effects for the coating of PolyActive™ were not described so far in the literature, even though it is a well‐known polymer for gas separation membranes targeted at CO2 removal. Roll‐to‐roll coating is a well‐established coating method and often believed to be suitable for the scale‐up of membrane production, therefore we think that this work will help membrane researchers who are using similar coating devices to be cautious about possible complications in the process.
Styrene/acrylate copolymer emulsions as strengthening agents for kraft bagasse pulp: A way for enhancing the mechanical properties of paper
Authors: Morsi Samir M. M. , Abd El‐Sayed Essam S. , Ismail Ahmed , Kamel Samir
Published: February 2024

Although styrene acrylate emulsions (SAE) have demonstrated promising applications as surface sizing agents for paper, their strengthening effect on pulp fibers in papermaking is not clear. In this study, bagasse fibers, an agricultural waste, were treated with SAE to study the influences on the mechanical properties of the produced papers. SAE copolymers with hard chain (H‐PSA) and soft chain (S‐PSA) were prepared and added to bagasse pulp slurry at concentrations of 1%–4% by weight. The findings indicated that for the soft and hard copolymers, the glass transition temperatures were 19.5 and 26.8°C and their emulsion particle sizes were 166 and 182 nm, respectively. The copolymers strengthened the produced paper by wrapping around and forming a network of chemical and physical bonds with the pulp fibers. Papers treated with 3% H‐PSA exhibited the optimum improvement in tensile strength (38 MPa) and breaking length (67 m) by 13% and 64%, respectively. Treated papers were negatively affected by UV radiation due to phenyl groups spread along the chains. The copolymers demonstrated good wet‐strength properties achieved by self‐ and co‐crosslinked networks. The prepared paper sheets showed a preference for the mechanical properties of treated samples over the untreated ones.
Facile synthesis of hybrid nanocomposite based on chitosan binary metal oxides for high‐performance supercapacitor
Authors: Gouda Mohamed , Khalaf Mai. M. , Abou Taleb Manal F. , Abd El‐Lateef Hany M.
Published: February 2024

The advancement in materials for energy storage for supercapacitors has been supported by the current shortage of energy as well as the increasing availability of sources of clean energy. Consequently, two‐dimensional materials based on metal oxide nanoparticles (copper oxide (CuO) and zinc oxide (ZnO), have great potential for the previously discussed utilization. A simple and affordable solid‐state approach was employed to design hybrid nanocomposite based on chitosan (Cs) blended with ZnO and CuO; this nanocomposite was labeled with CZC. The structural, morphological investigation of CZC hybrid nanocomposites, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) of the prepared nanocomposites were characterized. Consequently, hybrid nanocomposites for application as electrodes for supercapacitor devices were developed. The hybrid nanocomposite (CZC‐3) shows improved cycle stability, high energy density, and a specific capacitance in the electrochemical activity. Remaining at 97.8% of the initial capacitance even after 5000 cycles. These results imply that the hybrid nanocomposite based on Cs/ZnO/CuO has a promising future as a supercapacitor electrode material. Additionally, it provides superior performance to other nanocomposites with a high specific capacitance of 638.3 F/g and about 86.98% capacity retention after 5000 cycles at a current density of 1 A/g.
Effect of phytate doped cobalt and copper ion modified carbon nanotubes on flame retardancy and ceramic properties of silicone rubber
Authors: Bian Ziwei , Xu Wenzong , Yao Le , Jia Ruonan , Ding Ding , Zhang Zhihui
Published: February 2024

Silicone rubber (SR) has excellent properties, such as high and low temperature resistance and weather resistance. However, the flame retardancy of SR is rather poor, which severely limits the range of application of SR. Therefore, it is necessary to make certain modifications in order to improve its flame retardancy. In this study, wollastonite, low‐melting glass powder, and phytate‐modified carbon nanotubes (CPCC) were added to SR to prepare ceramizable silicone rubber (CSR) composites with good fire safety performance. The effect of CPCC on the flame retardancy and ceramization properties of CSR materials was investigated. The results showed that, with the addition of 3 phr of CPCC, the limiting oxygen index of the CSR composite material reached 33.8%, which was 26.1% higher than that of pure SR, and its UL‐94 grade reached V‐0 grade. The results of the cone calorimeter test showed that the total heat release of the CSR composite with three parts CPCC was reduced by 26.6%, and the peak heat release rate reduced by 13.1%. In addition, after the CSR6 composite was calcined at 1000°C for 1 h, the ceramic body formed by the composite had good supporting properties, and its bending strength was as high as 6.17 MPa.
Design, Synthesis, and Characterization of Novel Styryl Dyes as Fluorescent Probes for Tau Aggregate Detection in Vitro and in Cells
Authors: Sangsuwan Withsakorn , Faikhruea Kriangsak , Supabowornsathit Kotchakorn , Sangsopon Don , Ingrungruanglert Praewphan , Chuntakaruk Hathaichanok , Nuntavanotayan Napatsaporn , Nakprasit Kittiporn , Israsena Nipan , Rungrotmongkol Thanyada , Chuawong Pitak , Vilaivan Tirayut , Aonbangkhen Chanat
Published: February 2024

A series of novel styryl dye derivatives incorporating indolium and quinolinium core structures were successfully synthesized to explore their interacting and binding capabilities with tau aggregates in vitro and in cells. The synthesized dyes exhibited enhanced fluorescence emission in viscous environments due to the rotatable bond confinement in the core structure. Dye 4, containing a quinolinium moeity and featuring two cationic sites, demonstrated a 28‐fold increase in fluorescence emission upon binding to tau aggregates. This dye could also stain tau aggregates in living cells, confirmed by cell imaging using confocal fluorescence microscopy. A molecular docking study was conducted to provide additional visualization and support for binding interactions. This work offers novel and non‐cytotoxic fluorescent probes with desirable photophysical properties, which could potentially be used for studying tau aggregates in living cells, prompting further development of new fluorescent probes for early Alzheimer's disease detection.
Simple calculation of the Moon apsides motion
Authors: Nesterenko V. V.
Published: February 2024

A simple and clear method to calculate the averaged motion of the apsis line in the Moon orbit is proposed. The obtained result is for the starry period of the Moon revolution around the Earth or per year. The modern observed value of the latter quantity is per year. In “Principia” Newton derived for the Moon month and per year, that is approximately two times less than the observed values. Contrary to the Newton approach, we use a simple and obvious averaging of the Sun disturbing force for the starry period of the Moon revolution around the Earth. The applicability of the obtained formulae to satellites of other planets and to the planets themselves is argued. Comparing Newton's calculation with our method, we reveal the reason, rather convincing, that brought Newton to an imprecise result.