bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon‐Binder Design for Robust Electrode–Electrolyte Interfaces to Enable High‐Performance Microsized‐Silicon Anode for Batteries
Authors: Wang Fei , Wang Yuchen , Liu Zhendong , Zhang Chengzhi , Li Linqing , Ye Chong , Liu Jinshui , Tan Jun
Published: August 2023

Microsized‐silicon (µ‐Si, >1 µm) is one of the ideal anodes for lithium‐ion batteries due to its low‐cost, high tap density, and high specific capacity. However, during repeated lithiation/delithiation processes, µ‐Si undergoes huge volume changes. This leads to continued capacity loss during cycling due to severe particle pulverization, separation from the conductive network and uncontrolled growth of an unstable solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI). Herein, an electrode construction strategy is proposed by carbonization of the slurry‐casting µ‐Si electrode. The organic binder serves as both carbon resource and physical framework, which is carbonized to form a carbon binder that is chemically bonded with the µ‐Si particles and within the electrode. The electrode with carbon binder ensures stable electric channel and promotes formation of a stable and passivating SEI at the interface with a high µ‐Si content up to 82 wt%. The carbon binder offers physical buffer that shield against localized strain and modifies the surface reactivity, which enables a high initial Coulombic efficiency (91.85%) and stable cycle performance at commercial‐level areal capacities (2 mAh cm−2). This work offers an easily scalable yet practical approach for the current battery industry without any electrolyte modification or complicated manufacturing methods.
Gradient Concentration Refilling of N Stabilizes Oxygen Vacancies for Enhanced Zn2+ Storage
Authors: Wang Ming , Zhao Guangyu , Bai Xiaoming , Yu Weijian , Zhao Chenghao , Gao Zhenren , Lyu Pengbo , Chen Zhaoyu , Zhang Naiqing
Published: August 2023

The introduction of oxygen vacancies into aqueous zinc ion battery (ZIB) cathodes can significantly improve the diffusion kinetics of Zn2+, endowing enhanced electrochemical performance. However, the stability of oxygen vacancies in batteries during aqueous electrolyte cycling has been overlooked. Here, the oxygen vacancy is stabilized by the refilling of different impurity atoms, and gradient concentration refilling of N achieves the most stable state of the oxygen vacancy with minimum formation energy (4.77 eV). The obtained Zn3V2O7(OH)2·2H2O with gradient N refilling of partial oxygen vacancies (N‐VO‐ZVO) achieves more stable oxygen vacancies and a low Zn2+ diffusion energy barrier (0.19 eV) with an ultra‐high rate performance of 186 mAh g−1 at 100 A g−1 and capacity retention rate of 84.9% after 10 000 cycles.
An insight into sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.) breeding: Challenges and achievements
Authors: Poudel Hari P. , Bhattarai Surendra , Singer Stacy D. , Biligetu Bill , Acharya Surya
Published: August 2023

Over the last decade, there has been a renewed interest in sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.), particularly among western Canadian forage and beef‐cattle producers. A major trigger has been the availability of new sainfoin cultivars with improved compatibility with alfalfa (Medicago sativa). These new cultivars in binary mixture with alfalfa significantly reduced the incidence of alfalfa pasture bloat in grazing animals, potentially saving an estimated CAD 300–500 million worldwide, largely by eliminating direct animal losses and expenses associated with prevention and treatment. Although the development of new sainfoin cultivars was a significant breakthrough, this alone did not ensure its adoption by producers in western Canada. Indeed, concerns and questions endured, including whether sainfoin cultivars could in fact grow together with alfalfa and persist as a perennial crop, whether including sainfoin in alfalfa stands would make the pasture bloat safe, whether the biomass yield of sainfoin was comparable to that of alfalfa for a profitable return, and whether livestock would graze sainfoin to the same extent as alfalfa. In this review study, we provide an overview of sainfoin breeding research and discuss how new sainfoin cultivars (AAC‐Mountainview and AAC‐Glenview) were developed in Canada for binary mixtures with alfalfa. Additionally, we highlight current progress in sainfoin breeding efforts and the prospect of this species as a livestock feed for a sustainable agriculture system.
Impact of biological seed treatments on maize (Zea mays L.) and soil: Crop growth and yield
Authors: Cano Camacho Valeria , Potter Stephen W. , McDaniel Marshall D. , Licht Mark A.
Published: August 2023

Seed treatments have been used since the 17th century, but interest has accelerated in the last 20 years due to our increased understanding and importance of the plant microbiome. Particularly, biological seed treatments (BST) have rapidly gained popularity because soil biota is critical to plant health. Despite growing interest and an expanding market, we still lack understanding of what conditions BST are most effective for plant health. The objective of this study was to understand if seed treatments (including BST) will increase maize (Zea mays L.) growth and grain yield. Here, we tested (1) four maize hybrids and (2) five seed treatments (untreated control [UTC], base fungicide control [BFC], BFC + Poncho [P5] [Clothianidin], BFC + Poncho Votivo [P5V] [Bacillus firmus I‐1582], BFC + Poncho Votivo + TWO.O [P5V2] [Bacillus firmus I‐1582 plus Bacillus thuringiensis EX297512]) across four site‐years. Both BFC and BST had little effect on normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), plant height, and lodging. We did find a variable effect of BST on maize yield, with a significant site‐year × hybrid interaction (p = 0.06). For instance, in 2019 in Northwest Iowa, both BST treatments (P5V and P5V2) increased yield by an average of 1.5 Mg ha−1 compared to the control (+12%, p < 0.032). BST can improve maize yields, but complex hybrid‐BST interactions warrant further understanding in order to maximize the benefit of BST.
Novel amino acid ionic liquids prepared via one‐step lactam hydrolysis for the highly efficient capture of CO2
Authors: Wen Shuyue , Wang Tao , Zhang Xiaomin , Xu Weigao , Hu Xingbang , Wu Youting
Published: August 2023

This article proposes for the first time the preparation of a series of amino acid ionic liquids (AAILs) via one‐step hydrolysis of cheap lactams for the capture of CO2. The structures of the prepared AAILs are confirmed using NMR, FTIR, and ESI‐MS, and their physical properties are also determined. It is found that these AAILs are reversible CO2 absorbents with very high absorption capacities (0.15 to 0.18 g·g−1 at 313.2 K and 1.0 bar), better than almost all task‐specific ionic liquids reported in literatures. The absorption mechanism is also elucidated to be a combination of 1:1 and 2:1 stoichiometric reaction of AAILs with CO2 from NMR, FTIR, reaction equilibrium thermodynamical modeling and quantum calculations. The AAILs have the advantages of simple synthesis, high yield, and using available cheap raw materials. It is believed that this kind of AAILs have great potentials to be used as efficient CO2 absorbents.
A homozygous missense variant in the PLCB4 gene causes severe phenotype of auriculocondylar syndrome type 2
Authors: El Fizazi Khawla , Bouramtane Abdelhamid , Abbassi Meriame , El Asri Yasser Ali , Askander Omar , El Fahime Mustapha , Ouldim Karim , Ridal Mohammed , Bouguenouch Laila
Published: August 2023

Auriculocondylar syndrome (ARCND) is a rare craniofacial birth defect characterized by malformations in the mandible and external ear (Question Mark Ear). Genetically, three distinct subtypes of ARCND (ARCND1, ARCND2, and ARCND3) have been identified. ARCND2 is linked to pathogenic variants in the PLCB4 gene (phospholipase C β4). PLCB4 is a key effector of the EDN1‐EDNRA pathway involved in craniofacial development via the induction, migration, and maintenance of neural crest cells. ARCND2 is typically inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, with recessive inheritance pattern being rare. In this study, we report the first homozygous missense variant (NM_000933.4: c.2050G>A: p.(Gly684Arg)) in the PLCB4 gene causing ARCND in a 3‐year‐old patient with a severe clinical phenotype of the syndrome. The patient presented with typical craniofacial ARCND features, in addition to intestinal transit defect, macropenis, and hearing loss. These findings further delineate the phenotypic spectrum of ARCND associated with autosomal recessive PLCB4 loss of function variants. Notably, our results provide further evidence that these variants can result in a more severe and diverse manifestations of the syndrome. Clinicians should consider the rare features of this condition for better management of patients.
TfOH‐Catalyzed Highly Regioselective Synthesis of Conjugated Enones by Coupling of Alkynes and Aldehydes
Authors: Sudheer Mokhamatam , Rao Chinthu Joginarayana , Battula Venkateswara Rao
Published: August 2023

Triflic acid‐catalyzed regioselective enone synthesis from intermolecular coupling of aldehydes and alkynes has been developed. The present reaction is very efficient, effective, simple in nature and mild. The substrate scope is very diverse. This metathesis reaction exclusively provided trans product using aryl and aliphatic aldehydes and internal and terminal alkynes.
Multi‐stimulus Room Temperature Phosphorescent Polymers Sensitive to Light and Acid cyclically with Energy Transfer
Authors: Yang Yuqi , Li Aisen , Yang Yujie , Wang Jiaqiang , Chen Yi , Yang Kun , Tang Ben Zhong , Li Zhen
Published: August 2023

The stimulus‐responsive room temperature phosphorescent (RTP) materials have endowed wide potential applications. In this work, by introducing naphthalene and spiropyran (SP) into polyacrylamide as the energy donor and acceptor respectively, a new kind of brilliant dynamic color‐tunable amorphous copolymers were prepared with good stability and processibility, and afterglow emissions from green to orange in response to the stimulus of photo or acid, thanks to multi‐responsibility of SP and the energy transfer between naphthalene and SP. In addition to the deeply exploring of the inherent mechanism, these copolymers have been successfully applied in dynamically controllable applications in information protection and delivery.
Continuous Flow Electrochemistry Enables Practical and Site‐Selective C−H Oxidation
Authors: Chen Tian‐Sheng , Long Hao , Gao Yuxing , Xu Hai‐Chao
Published: August 2023

The selective oxygenation of ubiquitous C(sp3)−H bonds remains a highly sought‐after method in both academia and the chemical industry for constructing functionalized organic molecules. However, it is extremely challenging to selectively oxidize a certain C(sp3)−H bond to afford alcohols due to the presence of multiple C(sp3)−H bonds with similar strength and steric environment in organic molecules, and the alcohol products being prone to further oxidation. Herein, we present a practical and cost‐efficient electrochemical method for the highly selective monooxygenation of benzylic C(sp3)−H bonds using continuous flow reactors. The electrochemical reactions produce trifluoroacetate esters that are resistant to further oxidation but undergo facile hydrolysis during aqueous workup to form benzylic alcohols. The method exhibits a broad scope and exceptional site selectivity and requires no catalysts or chemical oxidants. Furthermore, the electrochemical method demonstrates excellent scalability by producing 115 g of one of the alcohol products. The high site selectivity of the electrochemical method originates from its unique mechanism to cleave benzylic C(sp3)−H bonds through sequential electron/proton transfer, rather than the commonly employed hydrogen atom transfer (HAT).
A Nitro‐Modified Luminescent Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Framework for Non‐Contact and High‐Contrast Sensing of Aromatic Amines
Authors: Huang Qiuyi , Otake Ken‐ichi , Kitagawa Susumu
Published: August 2023

The global demand for intelligent sensing of aromatic amines has consistently increased due to concerns about health and the environment. Efforts to improve material design and understand mechanisms have been made, but highly efficient non‐contact sensing with host–guest structures remains a challenge. Herein, we report the first example of non‐contact, high‐contrast sensing of aromatic amines in a hydrogen‐bonded organic framework (HOF) based on a nitro‐modified stereo building block. Direct observation of binding interactions of trapped amines is achieved, leading to charge separation‐induced emission quenching between host and guests. Non‐contact sensing of aniline and diphenylamine is realized with quenching efficiencies up to 91.7 % and 97.0 %, which shows potential for versatile applications. This work provides an inspiring avenue to engineer multifunctional HOFs via co‐crystal preparations, thus enriching applications of porous materials with explicit mechanisms.
Few‐Layer Fullerene Network for Photocatalytic Pure Water Splitting into H2 and H2O2
Authors: Wang Taotao , Zhang Li , Wu Jinbao , Chen Muqing , Yang Shangfeng , Lu Yalin , Du Pingwu
Published: August 2023

A few‐layer fullerene network possesses several advantageous characteristics, including a large surface area, abundant active sites, high charge mobility, and an appropriate band gap and band edge for solar water splitting. Herein, we report for the first time that the few‐layer fullerene network shows interesting photocatalytic performance in pure water splitting into H2 and H2O2 in the absence of any sacrificial reagents. Under optimal conditions, the H2 and H2O2 evolution rates can reach 91 and 116 μmol g−1 h−1, respectively, with good stability. This work demonstrates the novel application of the few‐layer fullerene network in the field of energy conversion.
In situ Observation of Evolving H2 and Solid Electrolyte Interphase Development at Potassium Insertion Materials within Highly Concentrated Aqueous Electrolytes
Authors: Gossage Zachary T. , Ito Nanako , Hosaka Tomooki , Tatara Ryoichi , Komaba Shinichi
Published: August 2023

The solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) is key to stable, high voltage lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) as a protective barrier that prevents electrolyte decomposition. The SEI is thought to play a similar role in highly concentrated water‐in‐salt electrolytes (WISEs) for emerging aqueous batteries, but its properties remain unknown. In this work, we utilized advanced scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and operando electrochemical mass spectrometry (OEMS) techniques to gain deeper insight into the SEI that occurs within highly concentrated WISEs. As a model, we focus on a 55 mol/kg K(FSA)0.6(OTf)0.4 electrolyte and a 3,4,9,10‐perylenetetracarboxylic diimide negative electrode. For the first time, our work showed distinctly passivating structures with slow apparent electron transfer rates alike to the SEI found in LIBs. In situ analyses indicated stable passivating structures when PTCDI was stepped to low potentials (≈−1.3 V vs. Ag/AgCl). However, the observed SEI was discontinuous at the surface and H2 evolution occurred as the electrode reached more extreme potentials. OEMS measurements further confirmed a shift in the evolution of detectable H2 from −0.9 V to <−1.4 V vs. Ag/AgCl when changing from dilute to concentrated electrolytes. In all, our work shows a combined approach of traditional battery measurements with in situ analyses for improving characterization of other unknown SEI structures.
Zwitterionic Polymeric Sulfur Ylides with Minimal Charge Separation Open a New Generation of Antifouling and Bactericidal Materials**
Authors: Berking Bela B. , Poulladofonou Georgia , Karagrigoriou Dimitrios , Wilson Daniela A. , Neumann Kevin
Published: August 2023

Zwitterionic polymers are widely employed hydrophilic building blocks for antifouling coatings with numerous applications across a wide range of fields, including but not limited to biomedical science, drug delivery and nanotechnology. Zwitterionic polymers are considered as an attractive alternative to polyethylene glycol because of their biocompatibility and effectiveness to prevent formation of biofilms. To this end, zwitterionic polymers are classified in two categories, namely polybetaines and polyampholytes. Yet, despite a fundamental interest to drive the development of new antifouling materials, the chemical composition of zwitterionic polymer remains severely limited. Here, we show that poly(sulfur ylides) that belong to the largely overlooked class of poly(ylides), effectively prevent the formation of biofilms from pathogenic bacteria. While surface energy analysis reveals strong hydrogen‐bond acceptor capabilities of poly(sulfur ylide), membrane damage of pathogenic bacteria induced by poly(sulfur ylides) indicates toxicity towards bacteria while not affecting eucaryotic cells. Such synergistic effect of poly(sulfur ylides) offers distinct advantages over polyethylene glycol when designing new antifouling materials. We expect that our findings will pave the way for the development of a range of ylide‐based materials with antifouling properties that have yet to be explored, opening up new directions at the interface of chemistry, biology, and material science.
Toward Magneto‐Optical Cryogenic Thermometers with High Sensitivity: A Magnetic Circular Dichroism Based Thermometric Approach
Authors: Gálico Diogo Alves , Murugesu Muralee
Published: August 2023

Remote temperature probing at the cryogenic range is of utmost importance for the advancement of future quantum technologies. Despite the notable achievements in luminescent thermometers, accurately measuring temperatures below 10 K remains a challenging endeavor. In this study, we propose a novel magneto‐optical thermometric approach based on the magnetic‐circular dichroism (MCD) technique, which offers unprecedented capabilities for meticulous temperature variation analysis at cryogenic temperatures. The inherent temperature sensitivity of the MCD C‐term, in conjunction with both positive and negative signals, enables highly sensitive magneto‐optical temperature probing. Additionally, a groundbreaking relative thermal sensitivity value of 95.3 % K−1 at 2.54 K can be achieved using a mononuclear lanthanide complex, [[Ho(acac)3(phen)], in the presence of a 0.25 T applied magnetic field and using a combination of multiparametric thermal read‐out with multiple regression. These results unequivocally demonstrate the viability and effectiveness of our methodology for cryogenic temperature sensing.
Effect of supercooling phenomenon on liquid freezing in cylindrical vessel
Authors: Nakazaki Taiga , Akimaru Yuichiro , Iyota Hiroyuki , Masuda Hayato
Published: August 2023

Freezing has been used to extend the shelf life of food products. In freezing, the large ice crystals which are unfavorable for the texture and quality of food are mainly generated during a solid–liquid coexistence phase. It is well known the ice crystals produced after undergoing a supercooling state were finer than those produced without supercooling. This implies that the supercooling phenomenon affects the solid–liquid coexistence time during freezing. Therefore, in this study, the effect of the supercooling phenomenon on the solid–liquid coexistence time was investigated using a cylindrical vessel. The experimental results indicated that the solid–liquid coexistence time decreased with increasing degrees of supercooling. This result suggests that increasing the degree of supercooling is effective for producing finer ice crystals. Generally, the temperature distribution is uniform to promote the supercooled state. Thus, rotational motion of the vessel with a periodical switching the rotational direction every 180° clockwise and counter‐clockwise was imposed to relax the temperature distribution in the vessel. Below a certain rotational speed, it was observed that supercooling deepened; above that, multiple instances of supercooling release were observed owing to the inversion.
Preparation of matte, abrasion‐resistant and anti‐fouling waterborneUV‐curable coating and its application in electronic product shells
Authors: Jiang Guiyou , Wu Song , Yan Wei , Tian Tian , Li Yang , Liao Youwei , Yang Yan
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a viable coating design for the production of waterborne coatings using PUA, Silicone‐modified‐PUA, Al‐SiO2, and PTFE as key ingredients. The coatings are prepared through an air compression spraying technique followed by a photocuring procedure. The resulting PUA/Silicone‐modified‐PUA/Al‐SiO2/PTFE coating exhibits exceptional properties including high hardness, low surface tension, and a low coefficient of friction. Experimental findings reveal noteworthy characteristics of the coating. It possesses a gloss level of 4–6°, a hardness of 492.69 N/mm, an elasticity modulus of 11469.94 MPa, a surface roughness of 0.87 μm, a dynamic coefficient of friction of 0.125 μN, and a surface tension of 0.4967 mN/m. To assess its performance, the coating underwent rigorous tests such as the CS‐5 Wool Touchpad Shinning Friction test with a 200 g load over 250,000 cycles. It exhibited minimal changes in gloss (≤2°) and color difference (∆E ≤ 0.75). Additionally, the CS‐10 abrasive head Optical Surface Taber Abrasion Resistance test was conducted using a 500 g load for 10 cycles, resulting in a Class 1 rating, and after 100 cycles, it achieved a Class 3 rating. This demonstrates its remarkable resistance to tribological environments, enduring tapping, touching, and scraping by fingers over extended periods.
Preparation of a novel bio‐based ferric flame retardant for enhancing flame retardancy, mechanical properties, and heat resistance of polylactic acid
Authors: Qin Wangping , Zhang Ruike , Fu Yan , Chang Jie
Published: August 2023

A fully bio‐based flame retardant PNF was prepared based on phytic acid, nicotinamide and iron salts in aqueous solution by a green and convenient ionic reaction, and then blended with polylactic acid (PLA) to improve its properties. The results demonstrated that the PLA composite containing 4 wt% PNF(PLA/4PNF) had a flame retardancy rating of UL 94 V‐0 and an oxygen index of 25.3%. In addition, the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and total heat release (THR) of PLA/4PNF were reduced by 27.0% and 27.7%, respectively, compared to pure PLA, and the flame retardancy index (FRI) was increased by 210%, demonstrating that PNF could effectively improve the flame retardancy of PLA. Moreover, the thermal conductivity of PLA/4PNF increased by 284% compared to pure PLA, making the material require higher heat to reach the combustion state. DSC and mechanical property tests showed that PLA/4PNF had 31.3% higher crystallinity, 5.2% higher heat deflection temperature and 10.0% higher flexural modulus compared to pure PLA, indicating that PNF effectively improved the mechanical properties and heat resistance of PLA. The research in this article broadens the application of bio‐based flame‐retardant PLA in the field of electronic appliances and office equipment.
Extruded polylactide bead foams using anhydrous supercritical CO2 extrusion foaming
Authors: Su Yaozhuo , Huang Pengke , Sun Jie , Chen Jiali , Zheng Hao , Luo Haibin , Chong Yunkai , Zhao Yongqing , Wu Fei , Zheng Wenge
Published: August 2023

Polylactic acid (PLA) is a bio‐based and biodegradable polymer. It is challenging to prepare PLA bead foams at a large scale in an efficient manner. Herein, beads of modified PLA are foamed by one‐step anhydrous supercritical CO2 extrusion. This dramatically shortens the production time, prevents the PLA from pyrohydrolysis, and avoids wastewater generation. The melt strength of the PLA is increased from 0.8 to 16.7 cN using a chain extender. The morphologies and microstructures of bead foams are analyzed. In the case of the PLA bead foam obtained by extrusion foaming combined with wind‐cooling pelletizing technology, the expansion ratio is higher than 13, the pore morphology is typical cellular structures, and the surface is glossy. The advantages and shortcomings of the PLA beads are also investigated. It is beneficial to promote the continuous preparation of PLA bead foams and other polymer beads like PS, and PP, which can be used in the fields of green packing, sound absorption, cold‐chain logistics, and so forth.
Fabrication of mixed matrix polyphenylsulfone‐polysulfone blend membranes incorporated with Nickel/Hydrazine@silica core‐shell nanoparticles using VIPS‐NIPS method for efficient dye rejection
Authors: Mahdavi Hossein , Khademi Fatemeh , Heidari Ali Akbar , Karami Milad
Published: August 2023

The dye‐water treatment using nanofiltration membranes is still an important issue. In this work, we have reported the fabrication of silica nanoparticles using a robust approach with well‐controlled aspect ratios. Accordingly, we first fabricated hydrophilic Nickel/Hydrazine@silica core‐shell nanoparticles, in which Ni nanoparticles were coated with a shell of silica. Then, different content of the prepared nanoparticles were incorporated into polyphenylsulfone/ polysulfone membrane matrixes in order to enhance the membranes hydrophilicity. The pristine and mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) were fabricated via the vapor‐induced phase separation coupled with non‐solvent‐induced phase separation (VIPS‐NIPS) approach, where Dioxane was employed as the co‐solvent. The dye rejection performance of the prepared membranes was evaluated for aqueous solutions of a variety of dyes, including direct yellow (DY), crystal violet (CV), methyl green (MG), and methylene blue (MB). Accordingly, it was indicated that the membrane with 0.12 wt.% of nanoparticles could provide an outstanding rejection performance as high as 99.7, 99.3, 98.4 and 97 for DY, MG, CV and MB, respectively, a superb water flux (6.1 L/m2 h bar), a great long‐term durability and an excellent antifouling performance.
Pad printing inks based on reduced graphene oxide and various cellulose binders: Rheological properties, printability and application in electrochemical sensors
Authors: Pavličková Michaela , Đurđić Slađana , Hatala Michal , Stanković Dalibor , Švorc Ľubomír , Veteška Peter , Gemeiner Pavol
Published: August 2023

Pad printing is not a widely used printing technique, but it offers the possibility of a simple, fast, and low‐cost production of various high‐resolution electrode structures. Here, the pad‐printed reduced graphene oxide (rGO) electrodes are prepared from pad‐printable inks containing rGO powder and different concentrations of two cellulose‐based polymers: ethylcellulose and cellulose acetate butyrate. The applicability of rGO inks for pad printing is analyzed according to their rheological parameters and printability. Based on viscosity, storage (G′) and loss modulus (G″) values, 10 wt% of ethylcellulose and 15 wt% of cellulose acetate butyrate appear to be most suitable for pad printing. The effect of polymer concentration on rGO electrodes homogeneity and mechanical stability is also evaluated. Cyclic voltammetry measurements for [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− redox system are performed with rGO/cellulose inks pad‐printed onto transparent conductive oxide substrates with the best results when using ethylcellulose as a binder. Finally, the square‐wave voltammetric method assesses the viability of rGO electrodes for the fast detection of ascorbic acid (detection limit of 15 μM) coupled with satisfactory precision (4.5%, n = 5) and long‐term stability during electrochemical measurements.
Topological Phases in Magnonics
Authors: Zhuo Fengjun , Kang Jian , Manchon Aurélien , Cheng Zhenxiang
Published: August 2023

Magnonics or magnon spintronics is an emerging field focusing on generating, detecting, and manipulating magnons. As charge‐neutral quasi‐particles, magnons are promising information carriers because of their low energy dissipation and long coherence length. In the past decade, topological phases in magnonics have attracted intensive attention due to their fundamental importance in condensed‐matter physics and potential applications of spintronic devices. In this review, we mainly focus on recent progress in topological magnonics, such as the Hall effect of magnons, magnon Chern insulators, topological magnon semimetals, etc. In addition, the evidence supporting topological phases in magnonics and candidate materials are also discussed and summarized. The aim of this review is to provide readers with a comprehensive and systematic understanding of the recent developments in topological magnonics.
Comparison‐specific preferences: The attentional dilution effect for delay and risk
Authors: Read Daniel , McDonald Rebecca , Cubitt Robin
Published: August 2023

In cross‐modal decisions, the options differ on many attributes, and in uni‐modal decisions, they differ on few. We supply new theory and data to understand how discounting for both delay and risk differs between cross‐modal and uni‐modal decisions. We propose the attentional dilution effect in decision making in which (a) allocation of limited attention to an attribute determines that attribute's decision weight and (b) the attention an attribute receives is increasing in the difference between options on that attribute and decreasing in the number of other attributes that differ between options. We introduce the random order delayed compensation method and conduct two experiments focusing on delayed and risky receipt of consumer goods. Consistent with the attentional dilution effect, we find that in this domain, patience and risk tolerance are generally higher in cross‐modal than uni‐modal decisions. We suggest that, since many real‐world choices are cross‐modal, people may be more patient and risk‐tolerant in their everyday life than is suggested by standard lab experiments.
Circulation of Coronavirus Images: Helping Social Distancing?
Authors: Bock von Wülfingen Bettina
Published: August 2023

As soon as the SARS‐Cov2 disease was recognized by experts to potentially cause a serious pandemic, a three dimensional diagrammatic image of the virus, colored in strong red, conquered public media globally.

This study confronts this iconic virus image with a historic image analysis of 33,000 biomedical articles on coronaviruses published between 1968–2020 and interviews with some of their authors.

Only a small fraction of scientific virus publications entail images of the complete virus. Red as an alarm color is not used at all by scientists who don't aim for a non‐scientific public.

Circulation in this case concerns the movement of iconic images from a scientific context into a general public. On the basis of hps‐studies on scientific diagrams and especially on color use in scientific diagrams to convey specific messages in public, the paper discusses the role of the claim of public corona‐virus diagram as “scientific.”

It points at relevant differences between most frequent scientific corona‐virus images and the diagrammatic image used in public. Both author‐ and readerships (in science and public) follow contrasting aims and values. Thus, the images meet non‐expert readers for whom the images entail very different – and potentially unintended – meanings then to virus experts.
AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR protein accumulation and function
Authors: Jing Hongwei , Strader Lucia C.
Published: August 2023

Auxin is a key regulator of plant developmental processes. Its effects on transcription are mediated by the AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR (ARF) family of transcription factors. ARFs tightly control specific auxin responses necessary for proper plant growth and development. Recent research has revealed that regulated ARF protein accumulation and ARF nucleo‐cytoplasmic partitioning can determine auxin transcriptional outputs. In this review, we explore these recent findings and consider the potential for regulated ARF accumulation in driving auxin responses in plants.
Suicide gene‐enabled cell therapy: A novel approach to scalable human pluripotent stem cell quality control
Authors: Gysel Emilie , Larijani Leila , Kallos Michael S. , Krawetz Roman J.
Published: August 2023

There are an increasing number of cell therapy approaches being studied and employed world‐wide. An emerging area in this field is the use of human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) products for the treatment of injuries/diseases that cannot be effectively managed through current approaches. However, as with any cell therapy, vast numbers of functional and safe cells are required. Bioreactors provide an attractive avenue to generate clinically relevant cell numbers with decreased labour and decreased batch to batch variation. Yet, current methods of performing quality control are not readily scalable to the cell densities produced during bioreactor scale‐up. One potential solution is the application of inducible/controllable suicide genes that can trigger cell death in unwanted cell types. These types of approaches have been demonstrated to increase the quality and safety of the resultant cell products. In this review, we will provide background on these approaches and how they could be used together with bioreactor technology to create effective bioprocesses for the generation of high quality and safe hPSCs for use in regenerative medicine approaches.
Bioactive peptides in preterm human milk: Impact of maternal characteristics and their association to neonatal outcomes
Authors: Balcells‐Esponera Carla , Borràs‐Novell Cristina , López‐Abad Miriam , Cubells Serra Inmaculada , Basseda Puig Anna , Izquierdo Renau Montserrat , Herranz Barbero Ana , Iglesias‐Platas Isabel
Published: August 2023

Human milk adipokines in term babies seem partially determined by maternal factors and affect infant's development. We aimed to describe bioactive peptide concentration in very preterm human milk and associations to maternal characteristics and postnatal growth. Mothers delivering ≤32 weeks of gestation and their infant/s were recruited. At 4 weeks of lactation, an aliquot of 24‐h‐pooled milk was collected for exclusively breastfeeding dyads. Insulin, leptin, adiponectin, and milk fat globule epidermal growth factor‐8 (MFG‐E8) were measured by enzyme‐linked immunoabsorbent assay in skimmed milk. One hundred mothers (28.8 ± 2.3 weeks at delivery) provided a milk sample. Milk insulin was related to gestational age, pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI), and galactagogue treatment (final model: adjusted R2: 0.330, p < 0.0001; adjusted β coefficients: galactagogue treatment: 0.348, p 0.001; pre‐pregnancy BMI: 0.274, p 0.009; gestational age: −0.290, p 0.007). Adiponectin was higher in mothers with gestational diabetes (30.7 ± 6.5 vs. 24.8 ± 8 ng/mL, p 0.044). Leptin was associated with pre‐pregnancy BMI (Spearman's ρ: 0.648, p < 0.0001) and MFG‐E8 to presence of labor and multiple pregnancy (final linear regression model, R2: 0.073, p 0.028, adjusted β coefficients: presence of labor −0.229, p 0.050; twins: −0.192, p 0.099). Milk adiponectin was associated with a greater decrease in length z‐scores from birth to 28 days (Pearson's r: −0.225, p 0.032) and to discharge (Pearson's r: −0.290, p 0.003). Milk MFG‐E8 was lower in milk of mothers whose babies experienced late‐onset sepsis (13.3 ± 5.8 vs. 16.8 ± 6.3 μg/mL, p 0.023). Adipokines levels in preterm human milk are partially related to maternal metabolic status. Milk peptide concentration associates with early neonatal growth trajectories.
Lesion location and serum levels of homocysteine are associated with early‐onset post‐stroke depression in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Zhou Hongxu , Wang Chenlong , Wang Wei , Li Hongyan , Hu Qun , Huang Ni , Huang Yining
Published: August 2023

Introduction

It is well known that post‐stroke depression (PSD) is a psychiatric complication after stroke which leads to worse functional outcome and poorer quality of life. Some risk factors including gender, stroke severity, lesion location, homocysteine (HCY), and so on are associated with PSD. This study aims to further explore the possible relationship between serum levels of HCY and early‐onset PSD and the predictive value of HCY combined with stroke characteristics for early‐onset PSD.

Methods

Two hundred forty‐five patients with acute ischemic stroke who met the criteria were included in this study from March 2015 to March 2017. PSD was diagnosed at 2 weeks after stroke. The severity of depressive symptoms was evaluated with the Hamilton depression scale 17 items (HAMD‐17), and patients with HAMD scores ≥7 were included in the PSD group. The demographic data, clinical characteristics, serum levels of HCY, and detailed radiological variables (e.g., lesion location and quantity of the brain infarct) were also examined.

Results

In total, 97 (39.6%) patients of the 245 patients were diagnosed with depression. The univariate analyses suggested that patients in PSD group had a higher NIHSS score, modified Rankin Scale score, and HCY levels than patients in non‐PSD group (p < .001). The patients with PSD had higher proportion of multiple‐site acute infarcts and frontal lobe lesion (p < .05). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, NIHSS score at admission, serum levels of HCY, and multiple‐site lesions were independently related to early‐onset PSD. Based on receiver operating characteristic curves analysis, the combination of HCY, NIHSS scores, multiple‐site lesions, and lesion location revealed a highest area under the curve of 0.807 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.748–0.865, p < .001). Furthermore, there was a significantly increased risk of early‐onset PSD associated with serum levels of HCY ≥16.98 μmol/L (odds ratio [OR] = 10.976, 95% CI: 5.585–21.573, p < .001).

Conclusions

Our study indicated that higher NIHSS score, elevated serum levels of HCY, and multiple‐site lesions may be independent risk factors of early‐onset PSD. The combination of HCY, NIHSS scores, multiple‐site lesions, and lesion location may provide greater predictive value than HCY alone for early‐onset PSD. Early intervention for elevated serum levels of HCY may be a potential target for the intervention and prevention of PSD.
Green consumption and sustainable development: The effects of perceived values and motivation types on green purchase intention
Authors: Ng Peggy M. L. , Cheung Cherry T. Y. , Lit Kam Kong , Wan Calvin , Choy Ellesmere T. K.
Published: August 2023

Daily green products have gained growing awareness in recent years. Perceived values of consumers are crucial for companies to promote the formation of holistic value of green products to consumers. In addition, understanding different motivation types of consumers to adopt green purchase behavior is critical. To answer the research call to better conceptualize green purchase intention, this study aims to investigate how consumers' perceived values influence different motivation types, and in turn, affect their green purchase behavioral intention. An extended research model by integrating customer value theory (CVT) and self‐determination theory (SDT) is developed to explain green purchase behavioral intention. Three hundred and five participants were recruited, and the findings were analyzed using partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS‐SEM). Results suggested that the three perceived values (i.e., emotional value, functional value, and relational value) significantly predict perceived green product value, while perceived green product value predicts four types of regulations (i.e., external regulation, introjected regulation, identified regulation, and integrated regulation). Results also showed that autonomous motivation (i.e., identified regulation and integrated regulation) significantly predicts green purchase intention. These findings provide theoretical implications to SDT and customer value theory in the field of green business strategy management and practical implications to green businesses and governments.
The expression and function of long noncoding RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Du Jingli , Su Yue , Gao Jianzhi , Tai Yanhong
Published: August 2023

With the deepening of the genome project study, attention on noncoding RNAs is increasing. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have become a new research hotspot. A growing number of studies have revealed that lncRNAs are involved in tumorigenesis and tumor suppressor pathways. Aberrant expressions of lncRNAs have been found in a variety of human tumors including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this review, we provide a brief introduction to lncRNA and highlight recent research on the functions and clinical significance of lncRNAs in HCC.
Consider implications of decision on affirmative action in admissions
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: August 2023

In a decision that reverberated throughout the halls of higher education, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down race‐conscious admissions programs at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina (see Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College, Slip Op. No. 20‐1199 (2023)). The decision overturns decades of precedent and effectively invalidates affirmative action policies in college admissions.
Review tips for handling pre‐admission requestsfrom students with disabilities
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: August 2023

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibits postsecondary institutions from denying a student admission on the basis of disability (34 C.F.R. § 104.42). Many institutions understand they cannot make preadmission inquiries into whether an applicant has disabilities. Indeed, at most colleges and universities, the risk of direct discrimination by denying admission to a student with disabilities is minimal.
Best practices can help manage complicated legal issues involving fraternities, sororities
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: August 2023

CLEARWATER, FLORIDA — Hazing, defamation claims, due process, Title IX, and new state laws make for a complicated legal relationship between higher education institutions and fraternities and sororities. That's according to Micah E. Kamrass, Esq., Partner at Manley Burke, LPA, and Adjunct Professor of Law at the University of Louisville and Vanderbilt University, who discussed best practices for managing this challenging area during his presentation at Stetson University's National Conference on Law and Higher Education.
Did court dismiss student's due process claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: August 2023

The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center placed a student on probation after he failed to complete a summer elective course in Uganda. The disciplinary letter claimed he was only in Uganda for two out of the eight weeks required for the research elective. The letter also indicated his course in Uganda raised professionalism concerns about his ability to manage his academic responsibilities and maintain communication with instructors.
Systemic therapy for Asian patients with advanced BRAF V600‐mutant melanoma in a real‐world setting: A multi‐center retrospective study in Japan (B‐CHECK‐RWD study)
Authors: Namikawa Kenjiro , Ito Takamichi , Yoshikawa Shusuke , Yoshino Koji , Kiniwa Yukiko , Ohe Shuichi , Isei Taiki , Takenouchi Tatsuya , Kato Hiroshi , Mizuhashi Satoru , Fukushima Satoshi , Yamamoto Yosuke , Inozume Takashi , Fujisawa Yasuhiro , Yamasaki Osamu , Nakamura Yasuhiro , Asai Jun , Maekawa Takeo , Funakoshi Takeru , Matsushita Shigeto , Nakano Eiji , Oashi Kohei , Kato Junji , Uhara Hisashi , Miyagawa Takuya , Uchi Hiroshi , Hatta Naohito , Tsutsui Keita , Maeda Taku , Matsuya Taisuke , Yanagisawa Hiroto , Muto Ikko , Okumura Mao , Ogata Dai , Yamazaki Naoya
Published: August 2023

Background

Anti‐PD‐1‐based immunotherapy is considered a preferred first‐line treatment for advanced BRAF V600‐mutant melanoma. However, a recent international multi‐center study suggested that the efficacy of immunotherapy is poorer in Asian patients in the non‐acral cutaneous subtype. We hypothesized that the optimal first‐line treatment for Asian patients may be different.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data of Asian patients with advanced BRAF V600‐mutant melanoma treated with first‐line BRAF/MEK inhibitors (BRAF/MEKi), anti‐PD‐1 monotherapy (Anti‐PD‐1), and nivolumab plus ipilimumab (PD‐1/CTLA‐4) between 2016 and 2021 from 28 institutions in Japan.

Results

We identified 336 patients treated with BRAF/MEKi (n = 236), Anti‐PD‐1 (n = 64) and PD‐1/CTLA‐4 (n = 36). The median follow‐up duration was 19.9 months for all patients and 28.6 months for the 184 pa tients who were alive at their last follow‐up. For patients treated with BRAF/MEKi, anti‐PD‐1, PD‐1/CTLA‐4, the median ages at baseline were 62, 62, and 53 years (p = 0.03); objective response rates were 69%, 27%, and 28% (p < 0.001); median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 14.7, 5.4, and 5.8 months (p = 0.003), and median overall survival (OS) was 34.6, 37.0 months, and not reached, respectively (p = 0.535). In multivariable analysis, hazard ratios (HRs) for PFS of Anti‐PD‐1 and PD‐1/CTLA‐4 compared with BRAF/MEKi were 2.30 (p < 0.001) and 1.38 (p = 0.147), and for OS, HRs were 1.37 (p = 0.111) and 0.56 (p = 0.075), respectively. In propensity‐score matching, BRAF/MEKi showed a tendency for longer PFS and equivalent OS with PD‐1/CTLA‐4 (HRs for PD‐1/CTLA‐4 were 1.78 [p = 0.149]) and 1.03 [p = 0.953], respectively). For patients who received second‐line treatment, BRAF/MEKi followed by PD‐1/CTLA‐4 showed poor survival outcomes.

Conclusions

The superiority of PD‐1/CTLA‐4 over BRAF/MEKi appears modest in Asian patients. First‐line BRAF/MEKi remains feasible, but it is difficult to salvage at progression. Ethnicity should be considered when selecting systemic therapies until personalized biomarkers are available in daily practice. Further studies are needed to establish the optimal treatment sequence for Asian patients.
The digital divide: Racial disparities in adoption and utilization of health information technology among patients with lymphoid cancers
Authors: Ailawadhi Sikander , Ailawadhi Meghna , Dutta Navnita , Parrondo Ricardo D. , Roy Vivek , Sher Taimur , Baksh Mizba , Rasheed Ahsan , Das Saurav , Fernandez Andre J. , Paulus Aneel , Chanan‐Khan Asher A.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Health information technology (HIT) has the potential to improve healthcare delivery and engagement. Studying racial‐ethnic disparities in HIT engagement will help understand and overcome challenges to healthcare utilization.

Methods

We undertook a patient‐reported survey among patients with lymphoid malignancies at two campuses of Mayo Clinic, Florida to explore HIT‐related disparities. Variables between Whites and non‐Whites, and non‐Whites from the two campuses were compared.

Results

The survey was completed by 1004 respondents, with 71% whites, 27% non‐Whites (race‐ethnicity not reported by 2%). Non‐Whites included 30% responders at the main campus and 64% at an inner‐city campus. Whites were significantly older and had higher education, while non‐Whites had lesser access to a computer. Only 51% of non‐Whites were registered to use electronic medical records (EMR) as compared to 72% Whites (p < 0.001) and significantly lesser number of non‐Whites even knew that EMR existed (81% vs. 92%, p < 0.001). Encouragingly, a higher number of non‐Whites wanted to engage in EMR. Non‐Whites from the main campus were older, more educated and had more access to a computer as compared to those from the inner‐city campus. Similar disparate factors were noted among minorities from the two campuses, suggesting impact of socioeconomic backgrounds on EMR usage among non‐Whites. Linguistic barriers were more striking among inner‐city campus non‐Whites.

Conclusions

Non‐Whites continue to struggle with suboptimal utilization of the healthcare system and barriers related to integration in HIT, including disparities representing socioeconomic differences. Efforts need to be made at several levels to help racial‐ethnic minorities overcome awareness, access, and linguistic barriers to HIT utilization.