bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sampling error of continuous periodic data and its application for geodesy
Authors: Földváry Lorant
Published: June 2021

Data acquisition for geoinformatics cannot be done continuously, but by discrete sampling of the object or phenomenon. The sampling involves errors on the knowledge of the continuous signal due to the loss of information in the sampling procedure. In the present study, an analytical formulation of the L1‐norm and L2‐norm sampling error of a periodic signal is provided, which embodies the amplitude, phase, bias, and periodicity of the sampling error. According to the tests, the formulation was found to be stable for instability of the sampling rate up to ±10%. The analysis is then subsequently applied for case studies. (1) For the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and GRACE‐Follow‐On (GRACE‐FO) monthly solutions the annual component was found to be affected by 2.49% of the signal content due to the sampling error. (2) For different realizations of the Hungarian Gravimetric Network, where it was found that with a spatial resolution of approximately 10 km, reliable features of the gravity up to 100 km cannot properly be described.
Dynamics behaviors of a stage‐structured pest management model with time delay and impulsive effects
Authors: Yang Jiangtao
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we study a delayed stage‐structured pest management model with periodic releasing infective pest, spraying pesticide and harvesting crop at three different fixed moments. By using impulsive‐type comparison results, small‐amplitude perturbation techniques, and the global attractivity of a one‐order time‐delay system, sufficient condition ensuring the global attractivity of the susceptible pest‐eradication periodic solution is derived. Furthermore, the permanence of the model is also derived. An example and its numerical simulations are given to verify the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Modeling of Isoprene Solution Coordinative Chain Transfer Polymerization
Authors: Cavalcante de Sá Marília Caroline , Córdova A. María Teresa , Díaz de León Gómez Ramón Enrique , Pinto José Carlos
Published: June 2021

The present manuscript investigates the solution coordinative chain transfer polymerization (CCTP) of isoprene initiated by the ternary Ziegler‐Natta catalyst system composed by neodymium versatate (), diisobutylaluminum (DIBAH), and dimethyldichlorosilane. A kinetic mechanism is proposed and the kinetic parameters are estimated to allow the appropriate description of dynamic trajectories of average molecular weights and isoprene conversions obtained in solution CCTP polymerizations for the first time. A data reconciliation strategy is applied to evaluate the amount of DIBAH used as a chain transfer agent, as this very active compound can be consumed by undesired side reactions. Additionally, the impacts of key operation variables on the control of the average molecular weights and monomer conversion are evaluated to elucidate the living nature of the polymerization. As observed experimentally, the temperature effect on the course of the polymerization is not so pronounced as the effect of , isoprene, and DIBAH initial concentrations. The kinetic mechanism is described better and kinetic constants are estimated more precisely when the dynamic trajectories of average molecular weights are fitted during the whole batch. In this case, the proposed model is able to predict well the experimental trajectories of average molecular weights of the produced polymer and monomer conversion.
Systematic Comparison of Slurry and Gas‐Phase Polymerization of Ethylene: Part I Thermodynamic Effects
Authors: Alizadeh Arash , Touloupidis Vasileios , Soares João B. P.
Published: June 2021

The Sanchez–Lacombe model is used to investigate the multiphase and multicomponent thermodynamic equilibrium during ethylene polymerization and ethylene/1‐hexene copolymerization in slurry and gas‐phase reactors. The simulation study focuses on the interactions among ethylene, polyethylene, hydrogen, 1‐hexene, andn‐hexane under typical polymerization conditions. When used as a diluent,n‐hexane increases the concentrations of all reactants in the amorphous polymer phase due to the cosolubility effect. Moreover,n‐hexane significantly swells the amorphous polyethylene. This means that a polyethylene particle with the same degree of crystallinity has a larger amorphous phase fraction in slurry than in gas‐phase reactors. Consequently, if the gas phase concentration is the same in both modes of polymerization, the concentration of all reactive species in semi‐crystalline polyethylene particles will be higher in slurry reactors. The thermodynamic equilibrium simulations agree with the reported experimental results and can explain why supported catalysts behave differently in slurry and gas‐phase polymerizations.
Assessment of the strength and electrical activity of the pelvic floor muscles of male‐to‐female transgender patients submitted to gender‐affirming surgery: A case series
Authors: Hazin Marina , Ferreira Caroline W. S. , Andrade Rogerson , Moretti Eduarda , da Silva Dayana R. , Policarpo Júlio H. , Barbosa Leila , Lemos Andrea
Published: June 2021

Aims

To assess the strength and electrical activity of the pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) of male‐to‐female transgender individuals submitted to gender‐affirming surgery (GAS).

Methods

A case series study was conducted from October 2016 to August 2018. Transgender women, who were scheduled for GAS, participated in the study. The volunteers were submitted to a clinical evaluation of the PFM followed by digital palpation (PERFECT method) and electromyography in the preoperative, 15, and 30 days after GAS. They responded to the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Urinary Incontinence (UI)—Short Form to evaluate the effect of UI on quality of life and to questions related to the urinary, anorectal, and sexual symptoms. Fifteen days after the GAS, patients were instructed to perform perineal exercises at home, twice a day.

Results

The study sample consisted of 15 transgender women with an average age of 30.6 (SD = 6.7) years. There was a decline in median strength and sustained muscle contraction duration (PERFECT), in the electrical muscle activity (RMSmean and RMSmax) between pre‐GAS and 15 days after GAS (p < 0.05). However, there was an increase in these parameters between 15 and 30 days after GAS (p < 0.05). Moreover, six patients exhibited pre‐GAS UI, which continued after surgery, with a worsening of urgency symptoms and improvement in nocturia and postmicturition leakage.

Conclusion

Strength, sustained muscle contraction duration, and PFM electrical activity may decline 15 days after GAS, returning to pre‐GAS values in the first month after surgery.
Effect of exposure to COVID‐19 infodemic on infection‐preventive intentions among Korean adults
Authors: Han Jeong‐Won , Park Junhee , Lee Hanna
Published: June 2021

Aim

This study determined the effect of exposure to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infodemic on infection‐preventive intentions among Korean adults.

Design

This was a cross‐sectional study that used structural equation model.

Methods

Data were collected between 14 April–7 July 2020 from 300 adults in their 20s to 60s residing in South Korea. Analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0 and AMOS 20.0.

Results

Exposure to COVID‐19 infodemic had a direct effect on the reduction of COVID‐19‐related knowledge and personal preventive health intentions. COVID‐19‐related knowledge had a direct impact on increased perceived severity, perceived vulnerability, perceived self‐efficacy, and personal preventive health intentions. Perceived severity, perceived vulnerability, and perceived self‐efficacy had a direct effect on increasing preventive intentions for personal health; and perceived severity had a direct effect on preventive intentions for public health.
The bird remains from WF16, an early Neolithic settlement in southern Jordan: Assemblage composition, chronology and spatial distribution
Authors: White Judith , Finlayson Bill , Makarewicz Cheryl , Khoury Fares , Greet Ben , Mithen Steven
Published: June 2021

Excavations at the early Neolithic settlement of WF16 in Faynan, southern Jordan, 11.84–10.24 ka BP, recovered 17,700 bird bones, of which 7808 could be identified to at least family level. Sixty‐three different bird taxa are present from 18 families, representing a mix of resident and migrant birds, based on present‐day ecology. We describe the settlement context for the assemblage, its taxonomic composition, spatial and chronological distribution, identifying its similarities and differences to avian assemblages from broadly contemporary sites in the region.
An experimental study on multiwalled carbon nanotube nanocomposite piezoresistivity considering the filler agglomeration effects
Authors: Zarei Darani Sajad , Naghdabadi Reza
Published: June 2021

Piezoresistive strain sensing of multiwalled carbon nanotube (CNT)‐reinforced polymer nanocomposites considering the effect of agglomeration is experimentally investigated. Thermoplastic polyurethane is used as composite matrix with melt mixing method for fabricating the nanocomposite. The electrical resistance of the nanocomposite specimens is measured by a designed electrical circuit in conductivity and piezoresistivity tests. The electrical resistance of the nanocomposite decreases by a nonlinear relation when CNT is added up to 1.5 wt% and has an inverse behavior after this weight fraction. Comparison between scanning electron microscope images of the nanocomposite specimen fracture surfaces shows that the CNT agglomeration is the reason for decreasing the nanocomposite electrical properties. Also, decrease of the mechanical properties of the nanocomposite in higher filler content than 1.5 wt%, confirms the agglomeration effects. In addition, it is illustrated that the CNT agglomeration decreases strain sensing in the nanocomposite. Moreover, different piezoresistive behaviors of the nanocomposite in low and large strains are explained, according to the piezoresistivity mechanisms. Change of the piezoresistivity mechanism type, causes a nonlinear growth of the nanocomposite electrical resistance, in large strain.
Impact of the cystic neural tube defects on fetal motor function in prenatal myelomeningocele repairs: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Corroenne Romain , Sanz Cortes Magdalena , Johnson Rebecca M. , Whitehead William E. , Donepudi Roopali , Mehollin‐Ray Amy R. , Huisman Thierry A. G. M. , Espinoza Jimmy , Nassr Ahmed A. , Belfort Michael A. , Shamshirsaz Alireza A.
Published: June 2021

Objective

To determine the impact of the lesion type (cystic [myelomeningocele] or flat [myeloschisis]) on the fetal motor function (MF) in cases candidates for prenatal open neural tube defect (ONTD) repair.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of patients with ONTD who underwent prenatal repair at a single institution between 2011 and 2019. The lesion type and the measurements of the length and width of the lesions to calculate the surface of the ellipsoid lesion were performed using MR scans. Prenatal MF of the lower extremities was evaluated by ultrasound following a metameric distribution at the time of referral. Intact MF was defined as the observation of plantar flexion of the ankle. Logistic regression was performed to determine the predictive value of the type of lesion for having an intact MF at the time of referral.

Results

103 patients were included at 22.9 (19–25.4) weeks; 65% had cystic and 35% had flat lesions. At the time of referral, there was a higher proportion of cases with an intact MF in the presence of flat lesions (34/36; 94.4%) as compared to cystic lesion (48/67; 71.6%, p < 0.01). When adjusting for gestational age and anatomical level of the lesion, flat ONTD were 3.1 times more likely to be associated by intact motor function (CI%95 [2.1–4.6], p < 0.01) at the time of referral.

Conclusion

Cystic ONTD are more likely to be associated with impaired MF at mid‐gestation in candidates for prenatal ONTD repair.
Patients' preferred and perceived level of involvement in decision making for cancer treatment: A systematic review
Authors: Noteboom Eveline A. , May Anne M. , van der Wall Elsken , de Wit Niek J. , Helsper Charles W.
Published: June 2021

Objective

Patient involvement in decision making is conditional for personalised treatment decisions. We aim to provide an up‐to‐date overview of patients’ preferred and perceived level of involvement in decision making for cancer treatment.

Methods

A systematic search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO and CINAHL for articles published between January 2009 and January 2020. Search terms were ‘decision making’, ‘patient participation’, ‘oncology’, ‘perception’ and ‘treatment’. Inclusion criteria were: written in English, peer‐reviewed, reporting patients’ preferred and perceived level of involvement, including adult cancer patients and concerning decision making for cancer treatment. The percentages of patients preferring and perceiving an active, shared or passive decision role and the (dis)concordance are presented. Quality assessment was performed with a modified version of the New‐Castle Ottawa Scale.

Results

31 studies were included. The median percentage of patients preferring an active, shared or passive role in decision making was respectively 25%, 46%, and 27%. The median percentage of patients perceiving an active, shared or passive role was respectively 27%, 39%, and 34%. The median concordance in preferred and perceived role of all studies was 70%. Disconcordance was highest for a shared role; 42%.

Conclusions

Patients’ preferences for involvement in cancer treatment decision vary widely. A significant number of patients perceived a decisional role other than preferred. Improvements in patient involvement have been observed in the last decade. However, there is still room for improvement and physicians should explore patients’ preferences for involvement in decision making in order to truly deliver personalised cancer care.
High‐Pressure Characterization of Melt‐Castable Energetic Materials: Bis(Nitroxymethylisoxazolyl) Furoxan (DNDIF)
Authors: Bennion Jonathan C. , Jenkins Timothy A.
Published: June 2021

The high‐pressure behavior of bis(nitroxymethylisoxazolyl) furoxan (DNDIF) was studied at ambient temperature and pressures approaching 30 GPa by Raman spectroscopy and powder X‐ray diffraction. There was no evidence of a phase change observed over this pressure range, indicating that the ambient structure of DNDIF remains stable up to conditions similar to the detonation pressure of the material. Such findings suggest that this melt‐castable explosive may be used in the replacement of 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT) in energetic formulations without the concern of uncontrolled polymorphism that might otherwise affect the performance and safety of the munition. Additionally, empirical understanding of the effect of different structural motifs in the crystal packing builds on understanding of what macroscale features are desirable for future materials and gets us closer to the design of future novel energetics.
Unusual hydrogen explosions due to unanticipated metal‐water reactions
Authors: Zalosh Robert
Published: June 2021

Inadvertent generation of hydrogen from ambient temperature metal‐water chemical and electrochemical reactions have been responsible for a surprising number of hydrogen explosions. This paper describes three sets of incidents involving different metals in applications that are normally considered free of explosion hazards. The first set of incidents involves wet alkaline incinerator ash with an aluminum content of at least 2%. The second set of incidents involves copper conductor electrochemical reactions in subsea electrical cable. The third set involves electrochemical corrosion reactions in galvanized dry sprinkler pipe. In all three applications, test data are discussed to elucidate the specific reactions and potential preventive and mitigation measures.
Seed priming with calcium chloride enhances wheat resistance against wheat aphid Schizaphis graminumRondani
Authors: Wang Jun , Song Jia , Wu Xiao‐Bao , Deng Qian‐Qian , Zhu Zhong‐Yan , Ren Ming‐Jian , Ye Mao , Zeng Ren‐Sen
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Calcium is an essential macronutrient for plant growth. Although it has been shown that exogenous Ca application can increase plant resistance to abiotic stress, little is known about its potential to enhance plant tolerance to biotic stress. Here, we investigated whether pretreatment of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seeds with calcium chloride (CaCl2) improves plant resistance against wheat aphid (Schizaphis graminum Rondani). The developmental time, population size, feeding behavior of aphids on plants grown from CaCl2‐ and water‐pretreated seeds, and plant defense responses to aphid attack were investigated.

RESULTS

Seed pretreatment with CaCl2 extended aphid development time and reduced aphid population size and feeding efficiency. In addition, the pretreatment significantly increased the concentration of Ca2+ in wheat leaves, and upregulated expression levels of TaCaM genes and callose synthase genes (TaGSL2, TaGSL8, TaGSL10, TaGSL12, TaGSL19, TaGSL22 and TaGSL23). Callose concentration in the leaves of plants grown from CaCl2‐pretreated seeds increased significantly upon aphid attack. Further, callose deposition was observed mainly in the phloem.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that seed pretreatment with CaCl2 primes the plant response against wheat aphid attack, leading to modulation of callose deposition in the phloem in response to aphid attack. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Anti‐hepatitis B virus activity and hepatoprotective effect of des(rhamnosyl) verbascoside from Lindernia ruellioides in vitro
Authors: Mou Jun‐Fei , Lin Xiao‐Zhen , Su He‐ling , Lu Hui‐Ling , Liu Qing‐Bo , Liang Bin , Chen Xu , Liang Cheng‐Qin , Zhou Xian‐Li
Published: June 2021

Although clinically approved hepatitis B virus (HBV) polymerase inhibitors (lamivudine‐3TC, entecavir, etc.) serve as effective therapeutics, the virus can easily generate resistance to them. Therefore, the treatment of HBV infection remains a public health problem. Numerous studies have shown that natural products have prospective anti‐HBV activity. The purpose of this study was to isolate and extract des(rhamnosyl) verbascoside from Lindernia ruellioides (Colsm.) Pennell and explore its anti‐HBV and hepatoprotective effects. Anti‐HBV activity was evaluated in HepG2.2.15 cells, a human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line with HBV‐stable infection, and its protective effect was evaluated in HL‐7702 cells, a normal human liver cell line. HepG2.2.15 cells maintained normal growth morphology within the selected concentration range of des(rhamnosyl) verbascoside. It also inhibited the expression of HBV antigens and HBV DNA in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner in vitro. Further, western blot experiments showed that it could downregulate HBV X protein (HBx) expression in a dose‐dependent manner. In the H2O2‐induced hepatocyte injury model, the cell‐survival rate of the HL‐7702 cells with the highest drug dose reached 85.25%, which was significantly improved compared with that of the model group. Most of the cells returned to normal morphology, showing polygonal or fusiform structures. Thus, it may be stated that des(rhamnosyl) verbascoside exhibits anti‐HBV activity and hepatoprotective effects in vitro and may exert an anti‐HBV effect via antigen inhibition, HBV DNA secretion, and HBx protein expression.
A calibration equation between Δ48values of carbonate and temperature
Authors: Swart Peter K. , Lu Chaojin , Moore Evan W. , Smith Megan E. , Murray Sean T. , Staudigel Philip T.
Published: June 2021

Rationale

Information on the temperature of formation or alteration of carbonate minerals can be obtained by measuring the abundance of the isotopologues 47 and 48 (Δ47and Δ48values) of CO2released during acid dissolution. The combination of these two proxies can potentially provide a greater insight into the temperature of formation, particularly if the carbonate minerals form by non‐equilibrium processes.

Methods

We have precipitated calcium carbonates at seven temperatures between 5 and 65°C and measured their δ48values using a Thermo‐253 plus isotope ratio mass spectrometer. The values were transformed to Δ48values in the conventional manner and then converted to the carbon dioxide equilibrium scale.

Results

Using the Δ48values, we have established an empirical calibration between temperature and Δ48values:urn:x-wiley:09514198:media:rcm9147:rcm9147-math-0001

Conclusions

The calibration line produced allows the determination of the temperature of natural carbonates using the Δ48values and agrees with the measurements of the Δ47and Δ48values of some carbonates assumed to have formed under equilibrium conditions.
Towards poor‐centred value chain for sustainable development: A conceptual framework
Authors: Minh Thai Thi , Osei‐Amponsah Charity
Published: June 2021

Value chain for development (VCD) has increasingly been promoted for poverty reduction; yet, there is inadequate evidence on its effectiveness. Based on a comprehensive literature review, this article offers reasons why evidence on VCD impacts on poverty reduction is uncertain. It also suggests a conceptual framework for the poor‐centred value chain for sustainable development to guide a better analysis of VCD participation and poverty impacts. The framework is particularly useful for researchers involved in research for development related projects in the VCD space. As it provides an analytical lens to understand the broader contextual situation of the poor, co‐design solutions with multi‐stakeholders and implement appropriate “fit‐to‐needs” strategies that ensure the poor benefits from their VCD participation. The article contributes to the existing VCD discourse by reflecting on the multidimensional nature and dynamism of poverty reduction, the poor's heterogeneity and their value chain readiness and VCD impacts on poverty.
Synergistic Enhancement of Photocatalytic Performance of Mesoporous TiO2 enabled by Tunable Crystal Phase and Hybridization with Graphene Oxide
Authors: Yuan Xiaomin , Wang Xiao , Zhang Shaoyu , Dong Xianming , Zhang Shengsen , Zhou Wuyi , Zhang Chaoqun , Luo Ying
Published: June 2021

Tailoring photocatalytic performance of TiO2 through tuning crystal phase and hybridization is a big challenge in the field of photocatalytic application. In this study, the mesoporous TiO2 (M‐TiO2) particles with tunable crystal phase were synthesized using rape pollen as the bio‐template with and without acid treatment. It was found that the acidification pretreatment of pollen template had obvious effect on the crystal phase of TiO2. The pure anatase titanium dioxides (MA‐TiO2) were prepared using the pure pollen as the template, while those using the acidified pollen template were anatase and rutile polycrystalline titanium dioxide (MAR‐TiO2) which exhibited better catalytic activity. Furthermore, the hybridization between MAR‐TiO2 and graphene oxide (MAR‐TiO2/GO) were achieved by the hydrothermal methods and their photocatalytic performance was studied by the degradation of methyl orange (MO) under ultraviolet and visible light. Compared with MAR‐TiO2, the MAR‐TiO2/GO nano‐composites possessed large specific surface area and narrow band gap due to the synergetic effect between MAR‐TiO2 and GO, which increased photocatalytic activity towards the photo‐degradation of MO under ultraviolet and visible light. The degradation rates of MAR‐TiO2/GO under UV light and visible light were 92 % in 105 min and 97 % in 540 min, respectively.
Efficient Green Protocols for the Preparation of Pyrazolopyrimidines
Authors: Kumar Hansal , Das Rudradip , Choithramani Asmita , Gupta Astha , Khude Datta , Bothra Gourav , Shard Amit
Published: June 2021

Pyrazolopyrimidine with all its isoforms occupy a noteworthy position in medicinal chemistry owing to their proven dominance in the modulation of a vast array of biological receptors, thereby mitigating numerous pathological conditions. The development of sustainable protocols, which integrate the principles of green chemistry in the synthesis process although challenging, offers the most appropriate way to conduct the sustainable synthesis of pyrazolopyrimidines. Due to the effectiveness of this nucleus and striking similarity to purines, they have been accessed using green as well as non‐green protocols. Analytical techniques like 2D NMR has been employed for the confirmation of pyrazolopyrimidines and their isomers besides the conventional single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Here, considering the rising awareness of sustainable protocols, we aimed at exploring this decade for green protocols for the synthesis of pyrazolopyrimidines and furnished products in excellent yields in this review. Protocols covered in this review include synthesis using green solvent, solvent‐free conditions, green catalyst, and catalyst‐free reactions. Also, synthesis of pyrazolopyrimidines assisted by microwave and ultrasound, as well as ionic liquid mediated synthesis are covered. It is estimated that this review shall throw some light upon the environmentally benign protocols to produce pyrazolopyrimidines which is itself a very important nucleus in the field of medicinal chemistry.
Regioselective Synthesis of Imidazo[1,5‐b]pyridazines by Cascade Cyclizations of 1,2‐Diamino‐4H‐phenylimidazole with 1,3‐Diketones, Acetoacetic Ester and Their Derivatives
Authors: Kruzhilin Alexey A. , Kosheleva Evgeniya A. , Shikhaliev Khidmet S. , Denisov Gleb L. , Vandyshev Dmitriy Yu.
Published: June 2021

In this study we investigated the cascade heterocyclisation reactions of 1,2‐diamino‐4H‐phenylimidazole with dimethylaminomethylidene (ethoxymethylidene) by the derivatives of acetoacetic ester, acetyl acetone, and aryl(hetaryl)butane‐1,3‐diones. As a result of the studied processes 7‐amino‐2‐R‐3‐R1‐5‐phenylimidazo[1,5‐b]pyridazines were obtained, whose structures were proved by means of 1H NMR, 13C NMR, XRS, and NOESY spectroscopy. Heterocyclisation conditions were optimised to obtain target products with high yields. A probable mechanism for regioselective processes was suggested. It was found that three‐component processes with initial diamine, 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds and triethyl orthoformate or dimethylformamide dimethylacetal result in similar products. The yield of these reactions was slightly reduced in comparison to the two‐component processes.
The Emerging of Aqueous Zinc‐Based Dual Electrolytic Batteries
Authors: Dai Chunlong , Hu Linyu , Jin Xuting , Zhao Yang , Qu Liangti
Published: June 2021

As high performance and safety alternatives to the batteries with organic electrolytes, aqueous zinc‐based batteries are still far from satisfactory in practical use because of the limitation of the intercalation reaction mechanism and the strict requirements for the cathodes. Very recently, zinc‐based dual electrolytic batteries (DEBs), where the cathode and anode are both based on reversible electrolytic reactions, are emerging. It features with electrode‐free configuration, thus avoiding the preliminary active materials or electrode fabrication procedures. Meanwhile, the new battery chemistry typically possesses a high specific capacity, output voltage, faster reaction rates, and long cycling life. Herein, the advances of the development of various zinc‐based DEBs, including Zn–MnO2, Zn–Br2, and Zn–I2 DEBs, are systematically summarized. This review will focus on the working mechanisms of these batteries and how the decoupling catholyte and anolyte affect their output voltages. The perspectives of the opportunities and challenges are also suggested in the aspects of protecting zinc anode, enhancing volumetric energy density, suppressing fast self‐discharge, and developing multifunctional integrated zinc‐based DEBs.
Doping Strategies in Sb2S3 Thin Films for Solar Cells
Authors: Myagmarsereejid Purevlkham , Ingram Malaika , Batmunkh Munkhbayar , Zhong Yu Lin
Published: June 2021

Sb2S3 is an attractive solar absorber material that has garnered tremendous interest because of its fascinating properties for solar cells including suitable band gap, high absorption coefficient, earth abundance, and excellent stability. Over the past several years, intensive efforts have been made to enhance the photovoltaic efficiencies of Sb2S3 solar cells using many promising approaches including interfacial engineering, surface passivation, additive engineering, and band‐gap engineering of the charge transport layers and active light absorbing Sb2S3 materials. Recently, doping strategies in Sb2S3 light absorbers have gained attention as they promise to play important roles in controlling band gap, regulating film morphology, and passivating grain boundaries, and thus resulting in enhanced carrier transport, which is one of the most challenging issues in this cutting‐edge research field. In this review, after a brief introduction to Sb2S3, an overview of Sb2S3 solar cells and their fundamental properties are provided. Recent advances in doping strategies in Sb2S3 thin films and solar cells are then discussed to provide in‐depth understanding of the effects of various dopants on the photovoltaic properties of Sb2S3 materials. In conclusion, the personal perspectives and outlook to the future development of Sb2S3 solar cells are provided.
Virus pH‐Dependent Interactions with Cationically Modified Cellulose and Their Application in Water Filtration
Authors: Watts Samuel , Maniura‐Weber Katharina , Siqueira Gilberto , Salentinig Stefan
Published: June 2021

Norovirus and Rotavirus are among the pathogens causing a large number of disease outbreaks due to contaminated water. These viruses are nanoscale particles that are difficult to remove by common filtration approaches which are based on physical size exclusion, and require adsorption‐based filtration methods. This study reports the pH‐responsive interactions of viruses with cationic‐modified nanocellulose and demonstrates a filter material that adsorbs nanoscale viruses and can be regenerated by changing the solution's pH. The bacteria viruses Qbeta and MS2, with diameters below 30 nm but different surface properties, are used to evaluate the pH‐dependency of the interactions and the filtration process. Small angle X‐ray scattering, cryogenic transmission electron microscopy, and ζ‐potential measurements are used to study the interactions and analyze changes in their nanostructure and surface properties of the virus upon adsorption. The virus removal capacity of the cationic cellulose‐based aerogel filter is 99.9% for MS2 and 93.6% for Qbeta, at pH = 7.0; and desorption of mostly intact viruses occurs at pH = 3.0. The results contribute to the fundamental understanding of pH‐triggered virus‐nanocellulose self‐assembly and can guide the design of sustainable and environmentally friendly adsorption‐based virus filter materials as well as phage and virus‐based materials.
Can N, S Cocoordination Promote Single Atom Catalyst Performance in CO2RR? Fe‐N2S2 Porphyrin versus Fe‐N4 Porphyrin
Authors: Cao Shoufu , Wei Shuxian , Wei Xiaofei , Zhou Sainan , Chen Hongyu , Hu Yuying , Wang Zhaojie , Liu Siyuan , Guo Wenyue , Lu Xiaoqing
Published: June 2021

Single atom catalysts (SACs) are promising electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), in which the coordination environment plays a crucial role in intrinsic catalytic activity. Taking the regular Fe porphyrin (Fe‐N4 porphyrin) as a probe, the study reveals that the introduction of opposable S atoms into N coordination (Fe‐N2S2 porphyrin) allows for an appropriate electronic structural optimization on active sites. Owing to the additional orbitals around the Fermi level and the abundant Fe orbital occupation after S substitution, N, S cocoordination can effectively tune SACs and thus facilitating protonation of intermediates during CO2RR. CO2RR mechanisms lead to possible C1 products via two‐, six‐, and eight‐electron pathways are systematically elucidated on Fe‐N4 porphyrin and Fe‐N2S2 porphyrin. Fe‐N4 porphyrin yields the most favorable product of HCOOH with a limiting potential of −0.70 V. Fe‐N2S2 porphyrin exhibits low limiting potentials of −0.38 and −0.40 V for HCOOH and CH3OH, respectively, surpassing those of most Cu‐based catalysts and SACs. Hence, the N, S cocoordination might provide better catalytic environment than regular N coordination for SACs in CO2RR. This work demonstrates Fe‐N2S2 porphyrin as a high‐performance CO2RR catalyst, and highlights N, S cocoordination regulation as an effective approach to fine tune high atomically dispersed electrocatalysts.
Confined Magnetic‐Dielectric Balance Boosted Electromagnetic Wave Absorption
Authors: Wang Lei , Huang Mengqiu , Qian Xiang , Liu Lili , You Wenbin , Zhang Jie , Wang Min , Che Renchao
Published: June 2021

Magnetic‐dielectric property plays a critical significance for the functional expression toward advanced materials. Within nanoscale, the simultaneous regulation of the electrical and magnetic properties of electromagnetic (EM) wave absorption materials faces huge challenges. Herein, using the metal‐organic frameworks (MOF) as templates, highly‐dispersed ZnO and Co nanoparticles are uniformly confined inside graphited N‐doped carbon skeleton, constructing the balanced EM property in the Co@NC‐ZnO absorbers. Meanwhile, a dynamics and symmetrical morphology optimization of MOF‐derived Co@NC‐ZnO are dependent on the Co/Zn mass ratio and adjusting MOF frameworks, which evolves from the cube, truncated cube, dodecahedron, and to the final microsphere. Simultaneously, both the electronic conduction network and magnetic coupling network are compatible together in the in situ transformed Co@NC‐ZnO system. Boosted magnetic responding ability and unique magnetic coupling are verified by the off‐axis electronic holography. Plentiful heterojunction interfaces and special electronic conduction paths can be built in this Co‐Zn‐MOF derivatives, facilitating the dielectric loss behaviors. As expected, MOF‐derived Co@NC‐ZnO absorber displays outstanding EM wave absorption ability with strongest reflection loss value of −69.6 dB at only 1.9 mm thickness and wideband absorption covering 6.8 GHz at 2.4 mm. Confined EM balance provides new design strategy toward MOF‐derived excellent MA materials and functional devices.
Sulfate Ions Induced Concave Porous S‐N Co‐Doped Carbon Confined FeCx Nanoclusters with Fe‐N4 Sites for Efficient Oxygen Reduction in Alkaline and Acid Media
Authors: Jin Huihui , Zhao Xin , Liang Lvhan , Ji Pengxia , Liu Bingshuai , Hu Chenxi , He Daping , Mu Shichun
Published: June 2021

To improve the catalytic activity of the catalysts, it is key to intensifying the intrinsic activity of active sites or increasing the exposure of accessible active sites. In this work, an efficient oxygen reduction electrocatalyst is designed that confines plentiful FeCx nanoclusters with Fe‐N4 sites in a concave porous S‐N co‐doped carbon matrix, readily accessible for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Sulfate ions react with the carbon derived from ZIF‐8 at high temperatures, leading to the shrinkage of the carbon framework and then forming a concave structure with abundant macropores and mesopores with S incorporation. Such an architecture promotes the exposure of active sites and accelerates remote mass transfer. As a result, the catalyst (Fe/S‐NC) with a large number of C‐S‐C, Fe‐N4, and FeCx nanoclusters presents impressive ORR activity and stability. In alkaline media, the half‐wave potential of the best catalyst (Fe/S2‐NC) is 0.91 V, which far exceeds that of commercial platinum carbon (0.85 V), while in acidic media the half‐wave potential reaches 0.784 V, comparable to platinum carbon (0.812 V). Furthermore, for the zinc‐air battery, the outstanding peak power density of Fe/S2‐NC (170 mW cm−2) superior to platinum carbon (108 mW cm−2) also highlights its great application potential.
Bean‐Pod‐Inspired 3D‐Printed Phase Change Microlattices for Solar‐Thermal Energy Harvesting and Storage
Authors: Yang Zhengpeng , Jia Shengmin , Niu Yutao , Lv Xiaoting , Fu Huili , Zhang Yongyi , Liu Dapeng , Wang Bin , Li Qingwen
Published: June 2021

Effective and reliable encapsulation of phase change materials (PCMs) is essential and critical to the high‐performance solar‐thermal energy harvesting and storage. However, challenges remain pertaining to manufacturing scalability, high efficiency in energy storage/release, and anti‐leakage of melted PCMs. Herein, inspired by natural legume, a facile and scalable extrusion‐based core‐sheath 3D printing strategy is demonstrated for directly constructing bean‐pod‐structured octadecane (OD)/graphene (BOG) phase change microlattices, with regular porous configuration as well as individual and effective encapsulation of OD “beans” into highly interconnected graphene network wrapping layer built by closely stacked and aligned graphene sheets. The unique architectural features enable the ready spreading of light into the interior of phase change microlattice, a high transversal thermal conductivity of 1.67 W m−1 K−1, and rapid solar‐thermal energy harvesting and transfer, thereby delivering a high solar‐thermal energy storage efficiency, and a large phase change enthalpy of 190 J g−1 with 99.1% retention after 200 cycles. Most importantly, such encapsulated PCMs feature an exceptional thermal reliability and stability, with no leakage and shape variation even at 1000 thermal cycles and partial damage of BOG. This work validates the feasibility of scalably printing practical encapsulated PCMs, which may revolutionize the fabrication of composite PCMs for solar‐thermal energy storage devices.
A Photosensitive Polymeric Carrier with a Renewable Singlet Oxygen Reservoir Regulated by Two NIR Beams for Enhanced Antitumor Phototherapy
Authors: Yang Chun , Su Meihui , Luo Pei , Liu Yanan , Yang Feng , Li Changhua
Published: June 2021

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), which utilizes photosensitizer to convert molecular oxygen into singlet oxygen (1O2) upon laser irradiation to ablate tumors, will exacerbate the already oxygen shortage of most solid tumors and is thus self‐limiting. Herein, a sophisticated photosensitive polymeric material (An‐NP) that allows sustained 1O2 generation and sufficient oxygen supply during the entire phototherapy is engineered by alternatively applying PDT and photothermal therapy (PTT) controlled by two NIR laser beams. In addition to a photosensitizer that generates 1O2, An‐NP consists of two other key components: a molecularly designed anthracene derivative capable of trapping/releasing 1O2 with superior reversibility and a dye J‐aggregate with superb photothermal performance. Thus, in 655 nm laser‐triggered PDT process, An‐NP generates abundant 1O2 with extra 1O2 being trapped via the conversion into EPO‐NP; while in the subsequent 785 nm laser‐driven PTT process, the converted EPO‐NP undergoes thermolysis to liberate the captured 1O2 and regenerates An‐NP. The intratumoral oxygen level can be replenished during the PTT cycle for the next round of PDT to generate 1O2. The working principle and phototherapy efficacy are preliminarily demonstrated in living cells and tumor‐bearing mice, respectively.
Supramolecular Assembly with Near‐Infrared Emission for Two‐Photon Mitochondrial Targeted Imaging
Authors: Shen Fang‐Fang , Chen Yong , Xu Xiufang , Yu Hua‐Jiang , Wang Haoran , Liu Yu
Published: June 2021

Two‐photon supramolecular assembly with near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescence emission is constructed from tetraphenylethene derivative possessing methoxyl and vinyl pyridine salt (TPE‐2SP), cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]), and β‐cyclodextrin modified hyaluronic acid (HA‐CD). The obtained experimental results indicate that the TPE‐2SP exhibits a very weak fluorescence emission at 650 nm, and then complexes with cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]) to form 1:2 supramolecular pseudorotaxane with an enhanced NIR fluorescence emission at 660 nm. Compared with CB[7], CB[8] can assemble with TPE‐2SP to be two‐axial netlike pseudopolyrotaxane, resulting in close packing to increase TPE‐2SP fluorescence emission with a redshift of 30 nm. Interestingly, TPE‐2SP/CB[8] continues to assemble with cancer cell targeting agent HA‐CD into nanoparticles, leading to assembling‐induced further enhancement of NIR emission. Surprisingly, supramolecular nanoparticles have the two‐photon character, and are successfully applied to mitochondrial targeting imaging. This supramolecular assembly system, with two‐photon absorption and assembly‐induced enhanced NIR luminescence properties, opens new way for biological targeted imaging.
An Ultra‐Simple Charge Supplementary Strategy for High Performance Rotary Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Feng Hongqing , Bai Yuan , Qiao Lei , Li Zhe , Wang Engui , Chao Shengyu , Qu Xuecheng , Cao Yu , Liu Zhuo , Han Xi , Luo Ruizeng , Shan Yizhu , Li Zhou
Published: June 2021

Free‐standing rotary triboelectric nanogenerators (rTENG) can accomplish special tasks which require both high voltage and high frequency. However, the reported high performance rTENG all have complex structures for output enhancement. In this work, an ultra‐simple strategy to build high performance rTENG is developed. With only one small paper strip added to the conventional structure, the output of the TENG is promoted hugely. The voltage is triplicated to 2.3 kV, and the current and charge are quintupled to 133 µA and 197 nC, respectively. The small paper strip, with the merits of ultra‐simplicity, wide availability, easy accessibility and low cost, functions as a super‐effective charge supplement. This simple and delicate structure enables ultra‐high durability with the 2.3 kV voltage output 100% maintained after 1 000 000 cycles. This charge supplementary strategy is universally effective for many other materials, and decouples the output enhancement from any friction or contact on the metal electrodes, emphasizing a critical working principle for the rTENG. Atmospheric cold plasma is generated using the paper strip rTENG (ps‐rTENG), which demonstrates strong ability to do bacteria sterilization. This simple and persistent charge supplementary strategy can be easily adopted by other designs to promote the output even further.
Flash‐Induced Ultrafast Production of Graphene/MnO with Extraordinary Supercapacitance
Authors: Zhang Huihui , Yang Dan , Ma Tianyi , Lin Han , Jia Baohua
Published: June 2021

Production of high‐capacitance electrodes beyond the theoretical limit of 550 F g−1 of pure graphene materials is highly desired for energy storage applications, yet remains an open challenge, especially with a facile and simple process. By rational design of reaction condition guided by theoretical analysis, the ultrafast (within millisecond) fabrication of high‐performance graphene/MnO electrodes via a low‐cost and one‐step flash reduction process is proposed and demonstrated. This simple method enables high‐quality porous graphene networks and the effective synthesis of embedding pseudocapacitive‐active MnO nanomaterials simultaneously. Due to the high‐density and homogeneous distribution of MnO nano‐needles on 3D graphene networks, an ultrahigh capacitance (up to 1706 F g−1 based on electrode mass and 2150 F g−1 based on MnO mass only) is demonstrated. Functional supercapacitor prototype further illustrates the broad potential applications enabled by the fabricated electrodes in energy storage, sensing, and catalysts.
Flash Bottom‐Up Arc Synthesis of Nanocarbons as a Universal Route for Fabricating Single‐Atom Electrocatalysts
Authors: Jung Jae Young , Jang Jue‐Hyuk , Kim Jeong‐Gil , Lee Kug‐Seung , Lim Hyung‐Kyu , Kim Pil , Chang Robert P. H. , Park Ji‐Woong , Yoo Sung Jong , Kim Nam Dong
Published: June 2021

Despite considerable development in the field of single‐atom catalysts (SACs) on carbon‐based materials, the reported strategies for synthesizing SACs generally rely on top‐down approaches, which hinder achieving both simple and universal synthesis routes that are simultaneously applicable to various metals and nanocarbons. Here, a universal strategy for fabricating nanocarbon based‐SACs using a flash bottom‐up arc discharge method to mitigate these issues is reported. The ionization of elements and their recombination process during arc discharge allows the simultaneous incorporation of single metal atoms (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Pt) into the crystalline carbon lattice during the formation of carbon nanohorns (CNHs) and N‐doped arc graphene. The coordination environment around the Co atoms of Co1/CNH can be modulated by a mild post‐treatment with NH3. As a result, Co1/CNH exhibits good oxygen reduction reaction activity, showing a 1.92 times higher kinetic current density value than the commercial Pt/C catalyst in alkaline media. In a single cell experiment, Co1/CNH exhibits the highest maximum power density of 472 mW cm−2 compared to previously reported nonprecious metal‐based SACs.
Layer‐by‐Layer Electrodeposition of FTO/TiO2/CuxO/CeO2 (1 <x< 2) Photocatalysts with High Peroxidase‐Like Activity by Greatly Enhanced Singlet Oxygen Generation
Authors: Shao Mingzhe , Liu Dapeng , Yan Baolin , Feng Xilan , Zhang Xiaojuan , Zhang Yu
Published: June 2021

Inorganic nanomaterials have attracted much attention as enzyme mimics because of simple and stable spatial conformation of those artificially synthesized nanocatalysts. Cu2O, as an important kind of narrow band gap semiconductor, is identified as effective as visible‐light‐driven photocatalysts, which can catalyze decomposition of H2O2 into reactive oxygen species. Moreover, after forming CuxO/CeO2 hybrids, the strongly coupled interface between the two components will further improve their catalytic performance. In this paper, the authors try to construct FTO/TiO2/CuxO/CeO2 (1 < x < 2) nanohybrids with such a kind of active interface via a layer‐by‐layer electrodeposition strategy by aid of the following surface etching process. It is found that FTO/TiO2/CuxO/CeO2 exhibits good peroxidase mimic activity in the dark but much better performance under visible light irradiation (λ ≥ 420 nm) during catalytic oxidation of 3,3′,5,5′‐tetramethylbenzidine substrates in the presence of H2O2. Detailed characterizations disclose that the construction of TiO2/Cu2O pn‐heterojunctions do effectively accelerate separation of photogenerated carriers, and the formation of a highly active CuxO/CeO2 interface is synergistically favorable for selectively generating singlet oxygen to boost the catalytic performance of FTO/TiO2/CuxO/CeO2.
Uniformly Dispersed Ru Nanoparticles Constructed by In Situ Confined Polymerization of Ionic Liquids for the Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhang Yong‐Ya , Zhang Nan , Peng Peng , Wang Rui , Jin Yan , Lv Ya‐Kun , Wang Xin , Wei Wei , Zang Shuang‐Quan
Published: June 2021

Design and development of cost‐effective electrocatalysts with high efficiency and stability for scalable and sustainable hydrogen production through water splitting is still challenging. Herein, with the aid of divinyl functionalized ionic liquids, uniformly distributed Ru nanoparticles (NPs) on nitrogen‐doped carbon frameworks are obtained via an in situ confined polymerization strategy. Attributed to the unique lamellar structure and confinement effect of carbon supports, the optimized homo‐PIL‐Ru/C‐600 (with Ru 10 wt%) catalyst exhibits superior catalytic efficiency for the hydrogen evolution reaction with the overpotential of only 16 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and the corresponding Tafel slope of only 42 mV dec−1. Moreover, the performance can be well reserved even after 10 000 cycles, demonstrating excellent stability and promising potentials for industrial application. This work not only provides a facile approach for the preparation of highly efficient Ru‐based catalysts, but also guides the synthesis of other highly dispersed metallic NPs for special applications.