bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Open-Framework Copper Titanosilicates
Authors: Wang Xiqu , Liu Lumei , Wang Lingbao , Jacobson Allan. J.
Published: April 2011

Four open-framework copper titanosilicates have been synthesized by hydrothermal techniques. The crystal structure of Phase 1 determined from single crystal X-ray data is closely similar to that reported for the titanosilicate ETS-4 with ca. one third TiO5 pyramids randomly replaced by CuO4 squares. Phase 2 also has the ETS-4 structure but all the TiO5 pyramids are replaced by CuO4 squares which are not randomly disordered. Phase 3 with the composition Na8CuTi3Si16O43 has the same structure as the mineral narsarsukite, a titanosilicate closely related to the microporous titanosilicate ETS-10. Narsarsukite and ETS-10 have the same straight single chains of TiO6 octahedra which are partially substituted by CuO4 squares in 3. Phase 4 with the composition K4CuTiSi8O21 contains CuO4 squares and TiO5 tetragonal pyramids that crosslink a new type of silicate double layer to form an open framework.
Synthesis and Low Temperature Physical Properties of Metal Substituted CoSr2YCu2Oy.
Authors: Shiraki Masahiro , Shimoyama Jun-ichi , Horii Shigeru , Kishio Kohji
Published: April 2011

In the present study, hole carrier doping was attempted for CoSr2YCu2O7+δ which is a relating compound to a well known superconductor YBa2Cu3O7-δ by introduction of excess oxygen into CoO1+δ layer and cation substitutions. High valence metal substitution for cobalt and barium substitution for strontium were revealed to be able to introduce excess oxygen and generate hole carriers. Additional calcium substitution for yttrium enhanced hole carrier concentration p/Cu > 0.05 which was enough for superconductivity, however superconducting transition was not observed. This is possibly due to incorporation of cobalt in the CuO2 planes.
Ferroelectricity in SrTiO3 Ceramics Induced by Pr Doping
Authors: Durán A. , Martínez E. , Mata J. , Heiras J. , Solans X. , Siqueiros J.
Published: April 2011

Ferroelectricity was induced in SrTiO3 by the Sr exchange for Pr ion in the A site of the perovskite ABO3-type structure. X-ray diffraction patterns show single phase crystalline structure in the SrxPr1-xTiO3 compound for x=0, 0.025, 0.050, 0.075 and 0.1 compositions. Rietveld refinement shows that the unit cell volume decreases with the increasing of Pr content as a consequence of the difference between Sr/Pr ionic radii. Furthermore, high-temperature differential thermoanalysis (DTA) displays a small anomaly at about 118 °C which is probably due to the Pr ion producing a distortion of the perovskite structure via an off-center site. This deformation in the lattice induces a measurable polar behavior of the solid solution. Dielectric permittivity (ε vs T) measurements display a well defined peak at about 238 °C. Furthermore, a well defined hysteresis loop at 30 °C with a remnant polarization that tends to decrease with increasing Pr concentration is observed. Both experimental results confirm the ferroelectric state induced by the Pr ion.
Reductive Intercalation of Vanadyl Layered Perovskites
Authors: Neiner Doinita , Sweany Ray L. , Golub Vladimir , Wiley John B.
Published: April 2011

A new series of triple layered Ruddlesden-Popper compounds of the general formula (LixVO)La2Ti3O10, where X = 0.83, 0.93, 1.4 and 1.8, have been prepared. Lithium is intercalated into the layered perovskite in a reductive manner to produce new mixed valence compounds. The structure of the parent, (VO)La2Ti3O10, is maintained upon intercalation. Above a certain lithium content, the magnetic behavior of (LixVO)La2Ti3O10 changes from paramagnetic, for X = 0.83, 0.93, 1.4, to a magnetically ordered material for (Li1.8VO)La2Ti3O10.
Femtosecond Laser Micromachining of Periodical Structures in Si <100>
Authors: El-Bandrawy Mohamed , Gupta Mool C.
Published: April 2011

A frequency doubled femtosecond Ti: sapphire laser at a wavelength of 400 nm, a pulse width of 160 fs, and a repetition rate of 1 kHz was used with a computer controlled galvo head to write periodical structures in Si <100>. Laser pulses of ∼130 nJ were focused using an objective lens of 0.65 NA. Laser parameters were optimized for efficient submicron ablation, yielding 700 nm wide by 600 nm deep lines. 1-D and 2-D periodical structures of 5 and 5x5 micron periods, respectively, were fabricated and examined using optical and atomic force microscopy. The quality of the 1-D and 2-D structures was highly depended on the light polarization orientation with respect to micromachining direction. With optimized fs laser parameters, high quality 1-D and 2-D periodical structures were obtained, which would have applications in optical devices.
Quantification of Environmental Stress Cracking in Polymer Blends through Eyring Modeling
Authors: Hopson Peyton L. , Moore Robert B.
Published: April 2011

The effect of blending polycarbonate (PC) with an amorphous copolyester (PCTG) and a crystallizable polyester (PBT) on the environmental stress cracking (ESC) resistance was studied. The determination of the ESC resistance for the blend was accomplished through tensile testing in a fluid environment utilizing an Eyring-type activated process to describe ESC. It was found that the miscible blend, PC/PCTG, displayed a rule of mixtures for ESC resistance to all fluids tested except ether resistance. The immiscible blend, PC/PBT, displayed a significant negative deviation from the rule of mixtures for ESC resistance, except for ether resistance, which has been attributed to the development of stress sites for craze initiation at the interface between the blend components on the surface of the test sample. The differences in ether resistance compared to the trends found for the fluid ESC resistance in this study were attributed to possible changes in crystallization for the samples tested in ether. The data suggests that strongly swelling fluids, e.g. diethyl ether in the presence of PC, may cause densification from polymer crystallization resulting in voids that facilitate in the initiation and growth of crazes.
Morphological effects on Glass Transitions in Immiscible Polymer Blends
Authors: Thirtha Vivek M. , Lehman Richard L. , Nosker Thomas J.
Published: April 2011

This paper describes the effects of structures on the glass transition of glassy polymers blended with a semi-crystalline polymer. Immiscible blends of PS/PP and PS/HDPE were prepared from commercially available polymers using melt processing and extrusion without additives. The weight fractions of the components were varied from 0 to 1. SEM analysis of the blends showed a range of morphologies over the composition range from small inclusions at low volume concentrations through intertwined co-continuous structures at specific intermediate compositions, and a reversal of this configuration at high volume fractions. The glass transition of the glassy polymer was measured with differential scanning calorimetry using the sensitive and high resolution modulated DSC method. A systematic change in glass transition of glassy polymers is observed as a function of composition in various immiscible polymer blends. Results show that the glass transition of polystyrene increases with a reduction in volume fraction, by approximately 5.4°C in polypropylene and 6.5°C in polyethylene. Probable models which might explain this effect are mentioned.
Radical Stakeholders and the Craft of Environmental Public Policy: Security Dimensions, Considerations and Implications
Authors: Deshpande Nick
Published: April 2011

Among the terrorist threats to the American homeland, law enforcement authorities have previously characterized the danger posed by the radical environmentalist movement (REM) as severe. In order to counter the threat, decision makers must recognize that public policies beyond the existing counterterrorism framework —especially those that concern the environment —might have a mitigating effect on support for the REM movement and its potential use of violent tactics. Officials should focus on policy ownership and delegitimizing its leaders' narratives when crafting such policies. Ultimately, the approach to countering the radical environmental movement must be comprehensive: it should not rely on the narrow tenets of counterterrorism alone and should encompass other policy mechanisms in order to best mitigate this threat.
Cephalometric measurements from 3D reconstructed images compared with conventional 2D images
Authors: Zamora Natalia , Llamas Jose M. , Cibrián Rosa , Gandia Jose L. , Paredes Vanessa
Published: April 2011

Objective:

To assess whether the values of different measurements taken on three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) are comparable with those taken on two-dimensional (2D) images from conventional lateral cephalometric radiographs (LCRs) and to examine if there are differences between the different types of CBCT software when taking those measurements.

Material and Methods:

Eight patients were selected who had both an LRC and a CBCT. The 3D reconstructions of each patient in the CBCT were evaluated using two different software packages, NemoCeph 3D and InVivo5. An observer took 10 angular and 3 linear measurements on each of the three types of record on two different occasions.

Results:

Intraobserver reliability was high except for the mandibular plane and facial cone (from the LCR), the Na-Ans distance (using NemoCeph 3D), and facial cone and the Ans-Me distance (using InVivo5). No statistically significant differences were found for the angular and linear measurements between the LCRs and the CBCTs for any measurement, and the correlation levels were high for all measurements.

Conclusion:

No statistically significant differences were found between the angular and linear measurements taken with the LCR and those taken with the CBCT. Neither were there any statistically significant differences between the angular or linear measurements using the two CBCT software packages.
Association Between Changes in Abdominal and Lumbar Multifidus Muscle Thickness and Clinical Improvement After Spinal Manipulation
Authors: Koppenhaver Shane L. , Fritz Julie M. , Hebert Jeffrey J. , Kawchuk Greg N. , Childs John D. , Parent Eric C. , Gill Norman W. , Teyhen Deydre S.
Published: April 2011

Study Design

Prospective case series.

Objective

To examine the relation between improved disability and changes in abdominal and lumbar multifidus (LM) thickness using ultrasound imaging following spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) in patients with low back pain (LBP).

Background

Although there is a growing body of literature demonstrating physiologic effects following the application of SMT, few studies have attempted to correlate these changes with clinically relevant outcomes.

Methods

Eighty-one participants with LBP underwent 2 thrust SMT treatments and 3 assessment sessions within 1 week. Transversus abdominis (TrA), internal oblique (IO), and LM muscle thickness was assessed during each session, using ultrasound imaging of the muscles at rest and during submaximal contractions. The Modified Oswestry Disability Index was used to quantify participants' improvement in LBP-related disability. Stepwise hierarchical multiple linear regression and repeated-measures analysis of variance were performed to examine the multivariate relationship between change in muscle thickness and clinical improvement over time.

Results

After controlling for the effects of age, sex, and body mass index, change in contracted LM muscle thickness was predictive of improved disability at 1 week (P = .02). As expected, larger increases in contracted LM muscle thickness at 1 week were associated with larger improvements in LBP-related disability. Contrary to our hypothesis, significant decreases in both contracted TrA and IO muscle thickness were observed immediately following SMT; but these changes were transient and unrelated to whether participants experienced clinical improvements.

Conclusion

These findings provide evidence that clinical improvement following SMT is associated with increased thickening of the LM muscle during a submaximal task.

Level of Evidence

Prognosis, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2011;41(6):389–399, Epub 6 April 2011. doi:10.2519/jospt.2011.3632
A Canadian Economic Analysis of U.S. Oncology Adjuvant Trial 9735
Authors: Bernard Lisa , Verma S. , Thompson M.F. , Chan B.C.F. , Mittmann N. , Asma L. , Jones S.E.
Published: April 2011

Objectives: Recent results of the U.S. Oncology Adjuvant Trial 9735 demonstrated significant disease-free survival and overall survival benefits for docetaxel and cyclophosphamide (TC) compared with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (AC) in the adjuvant treatment of operable invasive breast cancer. Based on clinical data from the 9735 study, we evaluated the lifetime cost-effectiveness of TC compared with AC from the perspective of the Canadian publicly funded health care system. Methods: A Markov model was developed to estimate the incremental cost per quality-adjusted life-year gained and per life-year gained. Monthly survival and risk of disease recurrence up to 7 years were obtained directly from the overall survival and disease-free survival curves in the 9735 study; life-years beyond 7 years were estimated using the average life expectancy of age-matched women in the general Canadian population. Canadian-specific resource utilization and unit costs (in 2008 Canadian dollars) were applied to estimate costs for chemotherapy administration, chemotherapy-related toxicities, recurrence, and adverse events. Health-utility scores and decrements used in the calculation of quality-adjusted life-years were derived from the literature. Results: The lifetime cost per quality-adjusted life-year gained was $8,251 for TC compared with AC, and the cost per life-year gained was $6,842. The results were robust across a range of sensitivity analyses. Conclusions: Cost-effectiveness, combined with efficacy and an acceptable safety profile, support the adoption of TC as an alternative to AC in Canadian clinical practice for the adjuvant treatment of operable early breast cancer.
Trésor d'archives : la sirène irlandaise, une femme entre fleurs et fruits
Authors: Muller Sylvie
Published: April 2011

Résumé Contrairement à ses consœurs antiques et médiévales, dont la séduction est mortifère ou diabolique, la sirène irlandaise est séduisante et féconde, bonne épouse et bonne mère. Les rites et les récits qui lui sont associés s’insèrent dans un ancien calendrier paysan européen, qui met en correspondance les cycles de reproduction de la terre, de la femme et de la plante. Cette sirène s’inscrit en effet dans un temps cyclique où la mort est à la terre ce que la menstruation est à la femme et la floraison à la plante : un potentiel fécond, nourricier.
Échanges épistolaires en anthropologie : l'enquête Harvard-Irlande (1930-1936)
Authors: Byrne Anne
Published: April 2011

Résumé L’article analyse un choix de lettres professionnelles et privées échangées dans le cadre de l’enquête américaine menée en Irlande de 1930 à 1936. Cette correspondance, que l’auteur soumet à une approche narrative, vient enrichir l’historiographie de la première visite en Europe, dans les années 1930, d’une équipe d’anthropologues et d’archéologues de l’université Harvard participant à une étude pluridisciplinaire de la « société moderne ». Elle permet non seulement de mettre en évidence une nouvelle stratégie de recherche inaugurée par deux anthropologues, Conrad Arensberg et Solon Kimball, mais aussi d’entendre la voix des informateurs et de faire apparaître, dans toute sa complexité, la relation qu’ils entretiennent avec le chercheur.
La ballade de Robin Gill
Authors: Beiner Guy
Published: April 2011

Résumé Le concept de tradition locale est au cœur de l’ethnologie irlandaise et pourtant il ne va pas de soi. Cet article éclaire la construction socioculturelle des traditions locales à partir d’une étude de cas : la narration et la diffusion d’un épisode de l’Histoire populaire relatant l’invasion en 1798 de l’ouest de l’Irlande par les Français, venus soutenir une insurrection républicaine qui échoua. On peut ainsi retracer l’élaboration de la tradition locale au travers de ses transformations, depuis l’histoire de famille récitée par des conteurs de talent jusqu’à la légende rattachée au folklore régional, puis au patrimoine national.
Associating GWAS Information with the Notch Signaling Pathway Using Transcription Profiling
Authors: Hicks Chindo , Pannuti Antonio , Miele Lucio
Published: April 2011

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified SNPs associated with breast cancer. However, they offer limited insights about the biological mechanisms by which SNPs confer risk. We investigated the association of GWAS information with a major oncogenic pathway in breast cancer, the Notch signaling pathway. We first identified 385 SNPs and 150 genes associated with risk for breast cancer by mining data from 41 GWAS. We then investigated their expression, along with 32 genes involved in the Notch signaling pathway using two publicly available gene expression data sets from the Caucasian (42 cases and 143 controls) and Asian (43 cases and 43 controls) populations. Pathway prediction and network modeling confirmed that Notch receptors and genes involved in the Notch signaling pathway interact with genes containing SNPs associated with risk for breast cancer. Additionally, we identified other SNP-associated biological pathways relevant to breast cancer, including the P53, apoptosis and MAP kinase pathways.
Characteristics of Educational Leaflets that Attract Pregnant Women
Authors: Sudo Noriko
Published: April 2011

Background

Many health service sectors produce leaflets for health education, but specific issues such as their overall content and design (layout, graphics, illustrations) are seldom discussed. Important features contributing to the effectiveness of any leaflet is the extent to which it is read by its target audience. The purpose of this study was to examine the acceptability of two different leaflets on abstinence from alcohol during pregnancy.

Methods

Four semistructured group discussions were conducted among 33 pregnant women. They were asked if they would take, read, and save the leaflets, and to give a reason for their decision. The reasons were discussed according to the components of the leaflet, including its front cover, content, and illustrations.

Results

The design of a leaflet's front cover plays a key role in attracting pregnant women, and, in the event that readers are interested in the topic, they prefer a leaflet with detailed content, and a real-life example, eg, a photograph of a child with fetal alcohol syndrome.

Conclusion

Positive key characteristics should be incorporated into educational leaflets to enhance the attention given to the material by pregnant women, as well as to facilitate retention of the information.
Natural Tooth Pontic using Fiber-reinforced Composite for Immediate Tooth Replacement
Authors: Tilakchand Mahima , Kidiyoor KH , Rao R Nageshwar
Published: April 2011

For patients who require removal of anterior teeth due to periodontal problems there are a multitude of treatment considerations. Using the natural tooth as a pontic offers the benefits of being the right size, shape and color. This paper describes the immediate replacement of an anterior tooth using a preimpregnated fiber-reinforced composite with the natural tooth as the pontic. The abutment teeth can be preserved with minimal or no preparation, thus keeping the technique reversible, and can be completed at the chair side thereby avoiding laboratory costs. It can be used as an interim measure or as a definitive prosthesis.
MODIS observed phytoplankton dynamics in the Taiwan Strait: an absorption-based analysis
Authors: Shang S. , Dong Q. , Lee Z. , Li Y. , Xie Y. , Behrenfeld M.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. This study used MODIS observed phytoplankton absorption coefficient at 443 nm (Aph) as a preferable index to characterize phytoplankton variability in optically complex waters. Aph derived from remote sensing reflectance (Rrs, both in situ and MODIS measured) with the Quasi-Analytical Algorithm (QAA) were evaluated by comparing them with match-up in situ measurements, collected in both oceanic and nearshore waters in the Taiwan Strait (TWS). For the data with matching spatial and temporal window, it was found that the average percentage error (ε) between MODIS derived Aph and field measured Aph was 33.8% (N=30, Aph ranges from 0.012 to 0.537 m−1), with a root mean square error in log space (RMSE_log) of 0.226. By comparison, ε was 28.0% (N=88, RMSE_log = 0.150) between Aph derived from ship-borne Rrs and Aph measured from water samples. However, values of ε as large as 135.6% (N=30, RMSE_log = 0.383) were found between MODIS derived chlorophyll-a (Chl, OC3M algorithm) and field measured Chl. Based on these evaluation results, we applied QAA to MODIS Rrs data in the period of 2003–2009 to derive climatological monthly mean Aph for the TWS. Three distinct features of phytoplankton dynamics were identified. First, Aph is low and the least variable in the Penghu Channel, where the South China Sea water enters the TWS. This region maintains slightly higher values in winter (~17% higher than that in the other seasons) due to surface nutrient entrainment under winter wind-driven vertical mixing. Second, Aph is high and varies the most in the mainland nearshore water, with values peaking in summer (June–August) when river plumes and coastal upwelling enhance surface nutrient loads. Interannual variation of bloom intensity in Hanjiang River estuary in June is highly correlated with alongshore wind stress anomalies, as observed by QuikSCAT. The year of minimum and maximum bloom intensity is in the midst of an El Niño and a La Niña event, respectively. Third, a high Aph patch appears between April and September in the middle of the southern TWS, corresponding to high thermal frontal probabilities, as observed by MODIS. Our results support the use of satellite derived Aph for time series analyses of phytoplankton dynamics in coastal ocean regions, whereas satellite Chl products derived empirically using spectral ratio of Rrs suffer from artifacts associated with non-biotic optically active materials.
A comprehensive set of benchmark tests for a land surface model of simultaneous fluxes of water and carbon at both the global and seasonal scale
Authors: Blyth E. , Clark D. B. , Ellis R. , Huntingford C. , Los S. , Pryor M. , Best M. , Sitch S.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. Evaluating the models we use in prediction is important as it allows us to identify uncertainties in prediction as well as guiding the priorities for model development. This paper describes a set of benchmark tests that is designed to quantify the performance of the land surface model that is used in the UK Hadley Centre General Circulation Model (JULES: Joint UK Land Environment Simulator). The tests are designed to assess the ability of the model to reproduce the observed fluxes of water and carbon at the global and regional spatial scale, and on a seasonal basis. Five datasets are used to test the model: water and carbon dioxide fluxes from ten FLUXNET sites covering the major global biomes, atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations at four representative stations from the global network, river flow from seven catchments, the seasonal mean NDVI over the seven catchments and the potential land cover of the globe (after the estimated anthropogenic changes have been removed). The model is run in various configurations and results are compared with the data. A few examples are chosen to demonstrate the importance of using combined use of observations of carbon and water fluxes in essential in order to understand the causes of model errors. The benchmarking approach is suitable for application to other global models.
The Spiral Organ Responsible for Producing Sound Signals, an Essential Taxonomic Character in the Phylogenetic Analysis of the GenusHamadryas(Nymphalidae: Biblidinae): The Case ofHamadryas chloe chloe(Stoll) [1787] from South America
Authors: Murillo-Hiller Luis Ricardo
Published: April 2011

Dissections and scientific illustrations were done of the spiral organ located in the forewing subcostal vein ofH. chloe, which was compared with otherHamadryasspecies that produce audible sound signals. Important differences were found; for example, inH. chloe, this organ is split into many independent pieces called membrane discs, whereas in the others species, it consists of just a single spiral. Implications for systematic analysis are discussed, with support from observations on ecology, chorology, and male genitalia.
Sterile Abscess in the Myocardium after Direct Intramyocardial Injection Related to Gene Therapy in a Swine Model
Authors: Ishikawa Kiyotake , Ladage Dennis , Tilemann Lisa , Kawase Yoshiaki , Hajjar Roger J.
Published: April 2011

Cardiac gene therapy is one of the most promising approaches to cure patients with cardiac dysfunctions. Many ways of efficient gene transfer using viral vectors are tested, and some of them are already used in clinical settings. However, it is always important to be keenly alert to the possible complications when a new therapy is introduced. We present a case of myocardial sterile abscess in a swine model associated with a direct myocardial injection.
Secondary Tuberculosis of Breast: Case Report
Authors: Wani Imtiaz , Lone Ali M. , Malik Rayees , Wani Khursheed A. , Wani Rauf A. , Hussain Irfan , Thakur Natasha , Snabel Vilam
Published: April 2011

Tuberculosis of breast is a rare disease which is difficult to differentiate from carcinoma of breast. The involvement of breast can be primary or secondary to some focus in body. A case of secondary tuberculosis of right breast in a 21-year-old female from Kashmir, India, is being reported. Presentation was as a painless discharging sinus of right breast. A tubercular foci of rib was the affecting source of disease. No other evidence of tuberculosis was present in the body. Resection of involved rib segment, along with the discharging sinus, was performed. The patient had antitubercular therapy for 9 months, with no recurrence seen in followup.
Impact of scatter radiation on spectral quantification performance of first‐ and second‐generation dual‐layer spectral computed tomography
Authors: Salazar Edgar , Liu Leening P. , Perkins Amy E. , Halliburton Sandra S. , Shapira Nadav , Litt Harold I. , Noël Peter B.
Published: May 2024

Objective

To assess the impact of scatter radiation on quantitative performance of first and second‐generation dual‐layer spectral computed tomography (DLCT) systems.

Method

A phantom with two iodine inserts (1 and 2 mg/mL) configured to intentionally introduce high scattering conditions was scanned with a first‐ and second‐generation DLCT. Collimation widths (maximum of 4 cm for first generation and 8 cm for second generation) and radiation dose levels were varied. To evaluate the performance of both systems, the mean CT numbers of virtual monoenergetic images (MonoEs) at different energies were calculated and compared to expected values. MonoEs at 50  versus 150 keV were plotted to assess material characterization of both DLCTs. Additionally, iodine concentrations were determined, plotted, and compared against expected values. For each experimental scenario, absolute errors were reported.

Results

An experimental setup, including a phantom design, was successfully implemented to simulate high scatter radiation imaging conditions. Both CT scanners illustrated high spectral accuracy for small collimation widths (1 and 2 cm). With increased collimation (4 cm), the second‐generation DLCT outperformed the earlier DLCT system. Further, the spectral performance of the second‐generation DLCT at an 8 cm collimation width was comparable to a 4 cm collimation on the first‐generation DLCT. A comparison of the absolute errors between both systems at lower energy MonoEs illustrates that, for the same acquisition parameters, the second‐generation DLCT generated results with decreased errors. Similarly, the maximum error in iodine quantification was less with second‐generation DLCT (0.45  and 0.33 mg/mL for the first and second‐generation DLCT, respectively).

Conclusion

The implementation of a two‐dimensional anti‐scatter grid in the second‐generation DLCT improves the spectral quantification performance. In the clinical routine, this improvement may enable additional clinical benefits, for example, in lung imaging.
Effect of Ni Substituted MgZrTa2O8 Ceramics on Sintering Characteristics and Microwave Dielectric Properties
Authors: Gao Lan , Zhang Yun , Ding Shihua
Published: May 2024

Herein, Mg1−xNixZrTa2O8 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.8, 1) ceramics are synthesized using a solid‐phase reaction method. Ni2+ replacing Mg2+ improves the drawback of high sintering temperature and poor temperature stability. The samples have a relative density above 95% at the optimal sintering temperature. The sintering temperature of Mg1−xNixZrTa2O8 reduces from 1475 to 1400 °C. And single‐phase Mg1−xNixZrTa2O8 ceramics with monoclinic wolframite structures are analyzed. According to the Rietveld refinement results, with the doping of Ni2+, the transformation of unit cell volume leads to the shift of the main peak in the X‐Ray diffraction pattern to a higher angle in 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.3 and a lower angle in 0.5 ≤ x ≤ 1. The εr of Mg1−xNixZrTa2O8 is comparable to MgZrTa2O8. At 1400 °C, the Q × f is increased from 10 598 GHz in the undoped sample to 43 041 GHz in Mg0.9Ni0.1ZrTa2O8 ceramic. The absolute values of τf of ceramic samples decrease with the excessive Ni2+. The desirable dielectric properties (εr = 20.79, Q × f = 43 041 GHz, τf = −33.04 ppm °C−1) are obtained at 1400 °C. Ni substitution is effective for MgZrTa2O8 ceramic to optimize densification temperature and retain the high Q × f value.
Exploring the Potential and Challenges of CRISPR Delivery and Therapeutics for Genetic Disease Treatment
Authors: Yang Xinpu , Bui Thuy Anh , Mei Haoqi , Aksoy Yagiz Alp , Deng Fei , Hutvagner Gyorgy , Deng Wei
Published: May 2024

Human genetic disorders, arising from a range of genetic irregularities, can significantly affect human physiology, often with limited available treatment options. The development of the CRISPR system, facilitating precise editing of the genome, has opened new avenues for addressing a range of mutations found in various genetic disorders. However, there is currently a lack of comprehensive reviews that specifically address the application of CRISPR in genetic diseases. To bridge this gap, this review focuses on exploring the advancements in CRISPR technology and their utility in therapeutic approaches for various genetic disorders. This review introduces human genetic disorders, explains the fundamental mechanisms of CRISPR editing, and highlights the latest advancements in CRISPR technology. Additionally, it examines three CRISPR delivery techniques, including physical delivery, viral vectors, and nanocarriers. It further reviews CRISPR's applications in therapeutic approaches for genetic disorders. Finally, it identifies the primary hurdles associated with industrial development and ethics considerations that should be addressed before the application of CRISPR in a medical context.
Reabsorption‐Free Scintillating Hetero‐Ligand MOF Crystals Activated by Ultrafast Energy Transfer
Authors: Orfano Matteo , Perego Jacopo , Bezuidenhout Charl X. , Villa Irene , Lorenzi Roberto , Sabot Benoit , Pierre Sylvie , Bracco Silvia , Piva Sergio , Comotti Angiolina , Monguzzi Angelo
Published: May 2024

Fast photoluminescence and scintillation with a Stokes shift larger than 1 eV is achieved in hetero‐ligand metal–organic framework (MOF) crystals comprising inorganic linking nodes and fluorescent conjugated ligands. By finely engineering the MOF composition with the use of ligands with strictly complementary emission and absorption properties and highly delocalized molecular electronic orbitals, the singlet excitons diffusion is enhanced through the ligand framework, fully exploiting both Förster and Dexter energy transfer mechanisms. This allows for the sensitization of energy acceptor ligand fluorescence by ultrafast non‐radiative energy transfer with a rate up to the THz range. This efficient antenna effect instantly activates the MOF scintillation with a Stokes shift as large as 1.3 eV in the blue spectral range, matching the highest sensitivity spectral window of the best photodetector available. This is obtained using a minimal doping level of the energy acceptor species, with a consequent elimination of emission re‐absorption that allows the achievement of a 500% increment of the MOFs scintillation efficiency and the detection of the radioactive krypton isotope 85Kr from the gas phase with an improved sensitivity compared with the reference material.
Dual Infrared 2‐Photon Microscopy Achieves Minimal Background Deep Tissue Imaging in Brain and Plant Tissues
Authors: Safaee Mohammad M. , Nishitani Shoichi , McFarlane Ian R. , Yang Sarah J. , Sun Ethan , Medina Sebastiana M. , Squire Henry , Landry Markita P.
Published: May 2024

Traditional deep fluorescence imaging has primarily focused on red‐shifting imaging wavelengths into the near‐infrared (NIR) windows or implementation of multi‐photon excitation approaches. Here, the advantages of NIR and multiphoton imaging are combined by developing a dual‐infrared two‐photon microscope that enables high‐resolution deep imaging in biological tissues. This study first computationally identifies that photon absorption, as opposed to scattering, is the primary contributor to signal attenuation. A NIR two‐photon microscope is constructed next with a 1640 nm femtosecond pulsed laser and a NIR PMT detector to image biological tissues labeled with fluorescent single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). Spatial imaging resolutions are achieved close to the Abbe resolution limit and eliminate blur and background autofluorescence of biomolecules, 300 µm deep into brain slices and through the full 120 µm thickness of a Nicotiana benthamiana leaf. NIR‐II two‐photon microscopy can also measure tissue heterogeneity by quantifying how much the fluorescence power law function varies across tissues, a feature this study exploits to distinguish Huntington's Disease afflicted mouse brain tissues from wildtype. These results suggest dual‐infrared two‐photon microscopy can accomplish in‐tissue structural imaging and biochemical sensing with a minimal background, and with high spatial resolution, in optically opaque or highly autofluorescent biological tissues.
Electrochemical Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia on CuCo Nanowires at Practical Level
Authors: Zhang Kouer , Sun Pengting , Huang Yulun , Tang Mingcong , Zou Xiaohong , Pan Zhefei , Huo Xiaoyu , Wu Jie , Lin Chunche , Sun Zhongti , Wan Yangyang , Zhang Xiao , An Liang
Published: May 2024

Electrochemical reduction of nitrate (NO3RR) holds great promise for environmentally friendly ammonia production. Tandem catalysis is a promising strategy for boosting the NO3RR and inhibiting side effects, but it is still challenged by lacking well‐designed catalysts to drive this catalytic process. Herein, the study develops the CuCo branched nanowires (CuCo NW) catalyst, which efficiently converts NO3
− to NH3 on Co (111) and Cu (111) crystal facets through a tandem catalysis mechanism. The in situ grown CuCo NW on Cu foam demonstrates a remarkable Faraday efficiency of 90.3% at 1.0 A cm−2 and maintains stable operation for 200 h at 100 and 200 mA cm−2 in a flow reactor. Density functional theory calculations suggest that the initial absorption and subsequent deoxygenation of *NO3 on Co (111) leading to the formation of *NO2, followed by its transfer to Cu (111) and further conversion to *NH3, establish an optimal pathway by managing rate‐determining steps on individual surfaces for NO3RR. To showcase the practical application of the catalyst, the study further develops a scaling‐up prototype reactor for continuous ammonia production, realizing the gram‐level yield rate of 1474.09 mg h−1 and Faraday efficiency of 91.26% at practical‐level 20.0 A.
Achieving High zT with Carbon Nanotube/Conjugated Microporous Polymer Thermoelectric Nanohybrids by Meticulous Molecular Geometry Design
Authors: Lin Meng‐Hao , Mohamed Mohamed Gamal , Lin Chih‐Jung , Sheng Yu‐Jane , Kuo Shiao‐Wei , Liu Cheng‐Liang
Published: May 2024

Conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs) are characterized by high physical and chemical stabilities along with low thermal conductivities due to their conjugated microporous frameworks, making them promising candidates for thermoelectric application. However, the advancement of CMPs within the thermoelectric field is considerably hampered by their inadequate electrical conductivity and unfavorable processability. Herein, highly‐conducting carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are dispersed in two solvents (1,2‐dichlorobenzene and N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone) to fabricate p‐ and n‐type CNT/CMP nanohybrids. Additionally, two unique CMPs are synthesized to elucidate the impacts of the chemical structures and pore architectures on the thermoelectric properties of the nanohybrids. Finally, due to the differing steric hindrance effects of the two CMPs, the thermoelectric performance can be tuned under varying circumstances. The synergetic effects of low thermal conductivity and efficient dispersion capability of the CMPs yield optimized figure of merit (zT) values of 0.053 and 0.13 at 303 K for the p‐ and n‐type thermoelectric nanohybrids, respectively. This investigation presents an alternative approach to building high zT p‐ and n‐type thermoelectric CNT/CMP nanohybrids operating near ambient temperature via the solvent doping effect and chemical structure design of the CMPs, thereby establishing CMP‐based materials as promising candidates for thermoelectric application.
3D Printing of Composite Radiation Shielding for Broad Spectrum Protection of Electronic Systems
Authors: Rosh‐Gorsky Avery , Coon Austin , Beck Devon , D'Onofrio Richard , Binney Quinn , Queen Isaiah , Barney Andrea , Longton Robert , Long Ashley Carlton , Gouker Pascale , Ledford Keri , Smith Melissa Alyson , Cascio Ethan , Konomi Ksenofon , Duncan Bradley
Published: May 2024

The miniaturization of satellite systems has compounded the need to protect microelectronic components from damaging radiation. Current approaches to mitigate this damage, such as indiscriminate mass shielding, built‐in redundancies, and radiation‐hardened electronics, introduce high size, weight, power, and cost penalties that impact the overall performance of the satellite or launch opportunities. Additive manufacturing provides an appealing strategy to deposit radiation shielding only on susceptible components within an electronic assembly. Here, a versatile material platform and process to conformally print customized composite inks at room temperature directly and selectively onto commercial‐off‐the‐shelf electronics is described. The suite of inks uses a flexible styrene‐isoprene‐styrene block copolymer binder that can be filled with particles of different atomic densities for diverging radiation shielding capabilities. Additionally, the system enables the combination of multiple distinct particle species within the same printed structure. The method can produce graded shielding that offers improved radiation attenuation by tailoring both shield geometry and composition to provide comprehensive protection from a broad range of radiation species. The authors anticipate this alternative to traditional shielding methods will enable the rapid proliferation of the next generation of compact satellite designs.
Advanced Nanostructured All‐Waterborne Thiol‐Ene/Reduced Graphene Oxide Humidity Sensors with Outstanding Selectivity
Authors: Trajcheva Ana , Elgoyhen Justine , Ehsani Maryam , Joseph Yvonne , Gilev Jadranka B. , Tomovska Radmila
Published: May 2024

The current‐state of polymer‐based humidity sensors faces numerous limitations, including energy‐costly synthesis, low sensitivity, and slow response times. This study presents innovative approach to overcome these challenges, based on a robust all‐water‐borne in situ miniemulsion polymerization. The use of water throughout the entire process mitigates the negative environmental impact. Thiol‐ene polymers reinforced with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with concentrations ranging from 0.2–1.0 wt% are selected to fabricate these chemoresistive sensors. The selected thiol‐enes present high hydrophobicity and a semicrystalline nature, suggesting resistance to early delamination even under prolonged exposure to humidity. Incorporating rGO not only imparts electrical conductivity but also enhances mechanical and water resistance of the composite films. The 0.6% rGO composite exhibits optimal resistance for humidity sensing, demonstrating rapid and consistent responses across three exposure cycles to water vapor concentrations ranging 800–5000 ppm. Moreover, the sensor exhibits remarkable selectivity toward water vapors over these of toluene, propanol, and 4‐methyl‐2‐pentanol, attributed to the high surface hydrophilicity and inherent porosity of the waterborne film, and network structuring of rGO platelets within the matrix. In summary, this study pioneers a novel approach to polymer‐based humidity sensing, addressing key limitations while offering enhanced sensitivity, rapid response times, and superior selectivity.
Recent Developments in Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals for Indirect X‐ray Detection
Authors: Balitskii Olexiy , Sytnyk Mykhailo , Heiss Wolfgang
Published: May 2024

Metal halide perovskites are revolutionizing X‐ray detection through a combination of low cost, solution processing, favorable optoelectronic properties, and high stopping power for high‐energy ionizing radiation. While perovskite single crystals and polycrystalline wafers are considered direct X‐ray converters, most medical X‐ray applications are based on scintillators that shift high‐energy radiation into the visible. Several materials are on the market, but demonstrations based on CsPbBr3 nanocrystals, possibly embedded in a matrix material or combined with organic molecules as luminescent species, highlight their competitiveness with established scintillators in terms of radioluminescence yield and transient behavior. Major hurdles that perovskite nanocrystal scintillators must overcome are environmental stability and toxicity. While there are still few examples of high‐performance lead‐free perovskite nanocrystal scintillators, microcrystalline perovskites are emerging with promising properties, reduced toxicity, and significant Stokes shifts to avoid reabsorption of emission in thick films. Thus, the near future of perovskite nanocrystal scintillator materials will primarily be the adoption of recipes for materials with proven properties in microcrystalline form. The nanocrystal colloidal solutions will facilitate the large‐scale printing of homogeneous and scattering‐free films to obtain high contrast and spatial resolution X‐ray images by scintillation.
Vortex‐Beam Multiplexing Emitter Using Advanced Manufactured Leaky Cables
Authors: Deng Feiyang , Luk Kwai‐Man , Sun Wenjian , Chan Ka Fai
Published: May 2024

Although orbital angular momentum (OAM) is extensively explored and researched in various scientific domains, its practical application in wireless communications still faces numerous challenges. Notably, existing OAM beam generation technologies need to meet the diversified demands of modern wireless communication, such as miniaturization, cost‐effectiveness, and system integration. Driven by the immense potential of OAM in communication systems, in this work, an innovative method based on leaky cables capable of simultaneously generating multiple vortex beams, overcoming a series of implementation issues associated with multiplexing emitters, is introduced. A design prototype is fabricated and tested, and the measurement results align closely with the simulations, validating the multifunctionality and practicality of the method. Moreover, the proposed strategy can seamlessly extend to optical frequencies using the concept of leaky fibers. In this method, not only efficient spatial utilization and excellent isolation are realized but also high cost‐effectiveness is possessed. Compared to previous strategies, this technique may have an impact on simplifying the establishment of communication system platforms based on OAM multiplexing.
Cross‐Correlation Between Crystallinity and Optoelectronic Properties of Mixed‐Perovskite Thin Films Through Multiple Time‐Resolved Spectroscopy
Authors: Park Junho , Kang Bong Joo , Seo Gabkyung , Kim Juwon , Park Tae Gwan , Nam Seongsik , Yoo Jason J. , Lee Kitae , Jeong Young Uk , Park Myeongkee , Shin Seong Sik , Rotermund Fabian
Published: May 2024

A power conversion efficiency (PCE) exceeding 25% is achievable using perovskite solar cells (PSCs), with compositional engineering as the most effective strategy for high‐efficiency PSCs. However, the understanding of structural properties, charge‐carrier dynamics, and photoelectric properties, crucial for solar cell performance, still remains insufficient to establish a correlation with device performance for improving the PCE and stability of PSCs. This study uncovers the crucial links between structural disorder, charge‐carrier dynamics, and photoelectric properties of mixed‐perovskite (FAPbI3)1‐x(MAPbBr3)x thin films by investigating device performance for different mol%. Structural and morphological analyses reveal that the mixed perovskite‐thin‐film disorder exhibits composition dependence in the form of a checkmark trend, with a minimum near 0.8 mol%. Time‐resolved transient absorption spectroscopy demonstrates that charge‐carrier dynamics and optoelectronic properties exhibit a corresponding dependence on disorder. As the disorder of the perovskite thin film decreases, the trap density decreases, charge‐carrier loss decreases during the thermalization process, and the carrier lifetime is prolonged. Optical pump‐THz probe measurements show 20% effective mobility and a diffusion length of 34%. The device performance shows composition dependence and superior PCE is achieved at 0.8 mol%. This study highlights the significance of charge‐carrier dynamics in optimizing mixed perovskite composition for enhanced PCE and stability of PSCs.
Training and supervision of disability support workers: Perspectives of NDIS participants using unregistered providers
Authors: West Raelene , Yates Sophie , Dickinson Helen
Published: May 2024

Training and supervision of disability support workers (DSWs) has, in most developed countries, been the primary means of supporting quality of service, adequate worker skill and prevention of violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation of both service users and DSWs. However, in Australia, there is no requirement for DSWs to obtain a minimum level qualification. This paper examines service user perception and decision making in relation to training and supervision of their DSWs. We report findings from semi‐structured interviews with 30 National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants. These findings suggest that users of disability services do not universally prioritise formal DSW supervision and training. Many interviewees described that being able to train and supervise DSWs themselves achieved better support outcomes and reduced power differentials in receipt of services. We discuss the implications of these findings in the context of recent policy reviews and the need to refocus safeguarding schemes on providing people with disability with the tools they need to ensure the quality and safety of their services.