bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molnupiravir increases SARS‐CoV‐2 genome diversity and complexity: A case‐control cohort study
Authors: Gruber Cesare Ernesto Maria , Tucci Fabio Giovanni , Giombini Emanuela , Mazzotta Valentina , Spezia Pietro Giorgio , Rueca Martina , Mastrorosa Ilaria , Fabeni Lavinia , Berno Giulia , Butera Ornella , Rosati Silvia , Specchiarello Eliana , Carletti Fabrizio , Focosi Daniele , Nicastri Emanuele , Girardi Enrico , Antinori Andrea , Maggi Fabrizio
Published: May 2024

Molnupiravir, an oral direct‐acting antiviral effective in vitro against SARS‐CoV‐2, has been largely employed during the COVID‐19 pandemic, since December 2021. After marketing and widespread usage, a progressive increase in SARS‐CoV‐2 lineages characterized by a higher transition/transversion ratio, a characteristic signature of molnupiravir action, appeared in the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) and International Nucleotide Sequence Database Collaboration (INSDC) databases. Here, we assessed the drug effects by SARS‐CoV‐2 whole‐genome sequencing on 38 molnupiravir‐treated persistently positive COVID‐19 outpatients tested before and after treatment. Seventeen tixagevimab/cilgavimab‐treated outpatients served as controls. Mutational analyses confirmed that SARS‐CoV‐2 exhibits an increased transition/transversion ratio seven days after initiation of molnupiravir. Moreover we observed an increased G‐>A ratio compared to controls, which was not related to apolipoprotein B mRNAediting enzyme, catalytic polypeptide‐like (APOBEC) activity. In addition, we demonstrated for the first time an increased diversity and complexity of the viral quasispecies.
Imaging Diagnosis for Intradiaphragmatic Pulmonary Sequestration
Authors: Hosokawa Takahiro , Tanami Yutaka , Sato Yumiko , Deie Kyoichi , Kawashima Hiroshi , Oguma Eiji
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Extrapulmonary sequestration (EPS) within the diaphragm (ID‐EPS) is rare and requires additional procedures such as incision or detachment of the diaphragm from the lesion for diagnosis. This study aimed to describe the imaging findings and evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) for ID‐EPS.

Material and Methods

Split diaphragm sign, shape of lesion edge, drainage vein into intra‐abdomen on ultrasound and CT, and lesion characteristics on ultrasound were compared between patients with ID‐EPS and with above‐diaphragm EPS (AD‐EPS) using Fisher's exact test.

Results

Three and nine patients were diagnosed with ID‐EPS and AD‐EPS, respectively. Significant differences were observed between the two groups in the split diaphragm sign on ultrasound (presence/absence in patients with ID‐EPS vs AD‐EPS, 2/1 vs 0/9, P = .046), shape of lesion edge on ultrasound/CT (round/beak in patients with ID‐EPS vs AD‐EPS, 3/0 vs 0/9, P = .005 on both CT and ultrasound), lesion characteristics on ultrasound (presence/absence of cystic area within lesion in patients with ID‐EPS vs AD‐EPS, 0/3 vs 7/2, P = .046), and the drainage vein into the abdomen on CT (presence/absence in patients with ID‐EPS vs AD‐EPS; 2/1 vs 0/9, P = .046). No drainage veins were visualized in the abdomen on ultrasonography and no significant differences in the presence/absence of the split‐diagram sign on CT (presence/absence in patients with ID‐EPS vs AD‐EPS and ID‐EPS; 0/3 vs 0/9, P > .999; 1/2 vs 0/9, P = .250) were observed between the two groups.

Conclusion

A combination of postnatal ultrasonography and CT was useful in predicting EPS located within the diaphragm.
Changes in Perceived Emotions in Facial Paralysis Patients After Depressor Anguli Oris Excision
Authors: O'Rourke Samuel P. , Stack Taylor J. , Miller Jonas R. , Miller Matthew Q.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Depressor anguli oris (DAO) excision can improve clinician‐graded, objective, and patient‐reported smile outcomes in patients with nonflaccid facial paralysis (NFFP). However, no prior research has studied changes in perceived emotions after surgery. This study quantifies changes in perceived emotions with smiling after DAO excision in the largest case series presented to date.

Methods

Prospectively collected data from patients with NFFP who underwent DAO excision at a tertiary care facial nerve center were reviewed. Patient‐reported, clinician‐graded, and objective smile metrics were compared before and after surgery. Videos of faces at rest and while smiling were analyzed by artificial intelligence‐derived facial expression analysis software to quantify perceived emotions.

Results

Sixty‐eight patients underwent isolated DAO excision between August 2021 and August 2023. Patients conveyed significantly more perceived happiness with smile and at rest after surgery (p < 0.001 and p = 0.012, respectively). DAO excision improved oral commissure excursion (p < 0.001), dental show (p < 0.001), and smile angle (p < 0.001) symmetry. Patients reported significant improvements in smiling and social function after surgery.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates DAO excision increases perceived happiness conveyed by patients with NFFP while smiling and at rest. It confirms improved objective, clinician‐graded, and patient‐reported smile outcomes after surgery.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:4028–4035, 2024
High Performance Electrically‐Injected InGaN Microdisk Lasers through Simultaneous Enhancement of Optical Confinement and Overlap Factor
Authors: Fu Wai Yuen , Cheung Yuk Fai , Choi Hoi Wai
Published: May 2024

Despite the considerable research interest in InGaN‐based microdisk lasers, owing to their unique circular geometry distinct from vertical cavity surface‐emitting lasers (VCSEL) or edge‐emitting lasers, commercial products remain scant due to deficient performance under electrical injection. This study proposes an innovative method integrating a thin‐film configuration with a metallic undercut, significantly augmenting optical confinement, overlap factor, and thus lasing performance. This approach results in a diminished lasing threshold from 1500  to 670 Wcm−2and a record high quality (Q) factor of 10100 under electrical injection. Strain relaxation in the metallic undercut, identified via scanning near‐field optical microscopy (SNOM), beneficially mitigates the Quantum Confined Stark Effect (QCSE), boosting the internal quantum efficiency of the laser. Furthermore, a beneficial blue‐shift in the emission spectrum aligns with the lasing peak, strengthening the Q factor. A tactfully implemented recessed top contact enables electrical injection lasing without optical performance compromise. The study provides invaluable insights for future microdisk laser technology advancements, potentially leading to specialized functionalities, including quantum optics, thereby opening new avenues for research and applications in this field.
MISSION VENTURING: DEMOCRACY’S SUPERPOWER IN THE INNOVATION RACE
Authors: Gupta Arun , Fewer Thomas J.
Published: May 2024

The authors (Gupta; CEO of NobleReach Foundation; lecturer, “Valley Meets Mission” at Stanford University) and Fewer (Assistant Professor of Strategic Management at Rutgers University‐Camden and Vice President at NobleReach Foundation); discuss that “democratic nations are in an innovation race with autocracies.” They “conducted a series of interviews with government officials, policy makers, and entrepreneurs to identify the key areas of tension for this critical and emerging area of mission‐driven venturing.” This analysis led to the identification of “five action‐areas of focus for mission‐inspired entrepreneurs.” In their words: (1) Mission Multiplies Profit (2) Build the Easy Button (3) Customize for the Unknown (4) Learn the Language of Government (5) Build for the Long Haul. Suggestions within area 1 include, in their words, match the mission of government; and find opportunities to create public value. Within area 2, in their words, Understand the government’s problem and know the people burdened by it; and Solve 100% of a specific problem, versus 80% of a larger problem. They conclude that “it will be essential for democracies to leverage their superpower in the innovation race ‐ the ability to foster an environment where mission‐driven ventures can thrive and contribute to national competitiveness, security, and inclusive prosperity.”
THE ART OF INFLUENCE: A LIFELONG JOURNEY OF LEARNING AND LEADERSHIP
Authors: Perdue Mitzi
Published: May 2024

The author has considerable experience in communications, as a journalist and radio/television presenter. She also has an important background in humanitarian endeavors, philanthropy, and as an anti‐human‐trafficking advocate. She describes the importance of influence in a leadership context: “As leaders, we get things done through others. The more we can perfect our ability to help others become all they can be, and the more we can influence them to use their skills in service to others, the better leaders we will be.” She notes the importance of participating in the Girl Scouts: “I feel I learned more from Scouting than I ever learned in school, and these learnings included values, teamwork, and striving to be all I could be.” Regarding the power of networking, she raises the example of her husband, the late poultry magnate Frank Perdue. Regarding public speaking, she joined the National Speakers Association at the age of 75. She concludes that currently her “focus is on Ukraine. Since I care passionately about the country and its people, and since at age 82, I’ve never seen a greater injustice than what Russia is doing to them, I want to give my all to doing whatever I can to benefit Ukraine.”
LEARNING TO LEARN: THE KEY TO LEADERSHIP SUCCESS
Authors: Keyes James W.
Published: May 2024

The author is former CEO of 7‐Eleven, Inc., and Blockbuster, Inc., and has been involved at the board level and other key positions in various nonprofits and artistic organizations. He says that in his career, he “grew to appreciate the critical importance of education to the individual, the corporation, and to the humanity at large.” He says that he has tried to “capture ”what″ learnings were necessary, “how” to make leadership a dynamic learning process, and “why” continued learning is such a fundamental requirement for effective leadership. I have distilled the what, how, and why of my leadership education into 9 principles I call the “C‐Suite Learnings.” The three areas of what to learn are, in his words, change, confidence, and clarity. In how to learn, they are critical thinking, curiosity, and creativity. For why to learn, collaboration, cultural literacy, and character. “My goal,” he concludes, “is to help others find their own path to academic, professional, and even personal success. By practicing these nine Cs, we can Live to Learn; freeing ourselves from personal and societal constraints that limit our success. Only then will we truly Learn to Live; and in turn Learn to Lead.”
Multi‐agent behavioral strategy game and synergy evolution path of the retired power battery recycling system
Authors: Wang Zhe , Wu Fan , Zhang Wenxi , Ke Sijia , Wang Xiaobo
Published: May 2024

In the era of transitioning to a low‐carbon economy, China's electric vehicle market is experiencing exponential growth, a trend that is mirrored by the burgeoning market for the recycling of used power batteries. This rapid expansion underscores the urgency of enhancing the power battery recycling system. However, the lack of sufficient engagement from consumers and recyclers in the recycling system currently impedes the formation of a cohesive recycling effort. To tackle this issue, we introduce a tripartite evolutionary game model involving the government, battery recyclers, and consumers. By analyzing the evolutionary stability strategies (ESSs) and their stability conditions, we delineate the synergetic development paths of them. Numerical examples illustrate the model's effectiveness and explore how government incentive policies can affect the strategic decisions of other participants. Our findings suggest that establishing incentive policies by the government in the early stage of the power battery industry is crucial for fostering a synergetic recycling system that is led by the government, involved by the community, and driven by the market.
Effect of In Vitro Enzyme Digestion and Bile Treatment on Milk Extracellular Vesicles Stability
Authors: Oliver Charlotte , Mishra Vinay S. N. , Santoro Jessie , Mukhopadhya Anindya , Buckley Frank , O'Driscoll Lorraine , Giblin Linda , Brodkorb André
Published: May 2024

Scope

Milk extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized particles with potential immune bioactivities. This study examines their fate during in vitro infant gastrointestinal digestion (GI).

Methods and results

Bovine milk is digested using the in vitro INFOGEST method, adjusted for the infant. To unravel the contribution of digestive enzymes from bile, milk is treated with digestive enzymes, bile, or a combination of both. EVs are collected posttreatment using differential ultracentrifugation. EVs characterization includes electrophoresis, immunoblotting, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and atomic force microscopy. EVs protein markers programmed cell death 6‐interacting protein (ALIX), tumor susceptibility gene 101 (TSG101), cluster of differentiation 9 (CD9), and xanthine dehydrogenase (XDH) are detected after gastric digestion (G60), but their signal intensity is significantly reduced by intestinal conditions (p < 0.05). Enzyme digestion, compared to bile treatment (I60 + bile), results in a significant reduction of signal intensities for TSG101 and CD9 (p < 0.05). Nanoparticle tracking analysis shows a significant reduction (p < 0.05) of EV numbers at the end of the intestinal phase. EVs are detected by atomic force microscopy at the end of the intestinal phase, showing that intact EVs can survive upper gut digestion.

Conclusion

Intact EVs can be found at the end of the intestinal phase. However, digestive enzymes and bile reduce the quantity and characteristics of EVs, with digestive enzymes playing a larger role.
Inhibitory effects of alkyl‐galactosides on the coaggregation of Fusobacterium nucleatum and oral bacteria
Authors: Tajikara Teppei , Itano Morihide , Yano Yoshitaka , Toshida Natsuko , Ueno Katsuya , Miyake Yoichiro
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Coaggregation and coadhesion are important mechanisms for oral bacteria to colonize the oral cavity and exert pathogenic effects. Fusobacterium nucleatum has been reported to coaggregate with various oral bacteria. Some of the coaggregation are inhibited by D‐galactose. D‐galactose, however, will be metabolized by oral bacteria when applied to the oral cavity, resulting in the acid generation that causes dental caries. In the present study, we developed a novel material, alkyl‐galactosides, that inhibits the coaggregation of F. nucleatum and is not metabolized by oral bacteria.

Methods

Acid production from alkyl‐galactoside by Streptococcus mutans was determined by pH lowering during liquid culture. Antibacterial activity was measured using the minimum inhibitory concentration test, and coaggregation inhibitory effects were evaluated based on the relative coaggregation ratio between F. nucleatum and several oral bacteria using absorbance measurements.

Results

D‐galactose was rapidly metabolized by S. mutans, resulting in a decreased pH. Alkyl‐galactoside, however, was not metabolized by the bacterium at 1 mM. Minimum inhibitory concentration of alkyl‐galactoside against S. mutans is 1–4 mM. Alkyl‐galactoside inhibited coaggregation between F. nucleatum and several oral bacteria almost to the same extent as D‐galactose.

Conclusions

Alkyl‐galactoside inhibits coaggregation between F. nucleatum and oral bacteria and is not assimilated by oral bacteria suggesting to be a potent novel material for prevention of dental plaque formation.
Biosynthetic pathway analysis combined with feature‐based molecular networking to comprehensively characterize the chemical constituents in seeds ofSterculia lychnophora
Authors: Liu Wei , Liu Run‐Zhou , Yang Hua , Gao Wen , Li Ping
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The seeds ofSterculia lychnophoraHance, commonly known as Pangdahai (PDH) in Chinese, have found extensive use in both culinary and traditional medicinal practices. However, a comprehensive understanding of the chemical composition of PDH has been lacking.

Objectives

This study proposes a strategy that integrates biosynthetic pathway analysis with feature‐based molecular networking (FBMN), aiming for a thorough and global characterization of the chemical compositions of PDH.

Methodology

The FBMN map reveals potential compounds with structural similarity, and the MS/MS fragments could be annotated based on library matches, which could predict the plausible biosynthetic pathways in PDH, accomplishing the annotation of compounds clustered in FBMN by integrating biosynthetic pathways.

Results

Consequently, 126 compounds were plausibly or unambiguously identified, including 37 phenolic acids and glycosides, 20 flavonoids and glycosides, 12 procyanidins, 21 alkaloids, 22 lipids, and 14 others. Leveraging the information, 40 compounds, including 1 unique isoquinoline alkaloid and 2 rare linear furocoumarins, were isolated and confirmed.

Conclusions

This study not only demonstrates a highly effective approach for identifying compounds within complex herbal mixtures but also establishes a robust foundation for the further development of PDH.
Assessing the dyeing efficacy and environmental impact of cotton fabric dyed with sawmill bio‐waste extracts and metal salts
Authors: Islam Tarikul , Khan Adnan Maroof , Karim Md. Rezaul , Hossain Shahin , Jalil M. Abdul
Published: May 2024

Textile coloration is a complex process involving the interaction of dye molecules with fibers in a dye bath. Synthetic dyes pose environmental hazards, leading to increased interest in natural dyes sourced from plants, animals, and minerals. However, natural dyes often require mordants for application to textiles. Despite their eco‐friendliness, natural dyes can exhibit poor wash fastness on fabrics, necessitating further research to enhance their performance. This study investigates the use of mahogany sawdust extract as a natural dye for cotton coloration, focusing on the enhancement of fastness properties through metallic mordants and associated environmental risks. Mahogany sawdust, rich in flavonoids and tannins, shows promise as a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes. The dyeing process involves the extraction of natural dyes from sawmill bio‐waste and subsequent application onto cotton fabrics using various metallic mordants. Evaluation of colorfastness properties, color strength, color coordinates, tensile strength, FTIR, and SEM analysis provides insights into the dye‐fiber interactions and fabric properties. Environmental risk assessment considers metal exhaustion onto fabric surfaces, residual metal concentrations in mordant baths, and metal content in dyeing wastewater. Overall, this study contributes to the development of sustainable dyeing processes and highlights the importance of environmental considerations in textile coloration.

Highlights

Mahogany sawdust extract: potential natural dye for sustainable cotton coloration.

Metallic mordants enhance colorfastness and fabric durability in dyeing processes.

Comprehensive analysis reveals the intricate dynamics of dye‐fiber interactions.

Environmental risk evaluation guides sustainable textile manufacturing practices.

Research paves the way for greener, more sustainable textile industry practices globally.
Health intervention trials involving transgender, transabled and transracial persons in Africa: A scoping review
Authors: Amzat Jimoh , Kanmodi Kehinde Kazeem , Aminu Kafayat , Ismail Abbas , Salami Afeez Abolarinwa
Published: May 2024

Background

Health intervention trials constitute important research efforts to find appropriate solutions to health issues affecting different populations. In many cases, it involves high‐risk groups such as the trans‐communities. This scoping review aims to review the existing health intervention trials involving transgender, transabled and transracial persons in Africa.

Methods

This scoping review adopted the research design by Arskey and O'Malley. Using the Population–Concept–Context framework, a robust systematic search of four research databases, including APA PsycINFO, SCOPUS, CINAHL Complete and PubMed, was conducted to retrieve literature relevant to the review's question. Duplicate copies in the retrieved literature were removed using the Rayyan web‐based application. The residual literature was screened for relevance based on the review's inclusion and exclusion criteria, and only those eligible articles were included in this review. From the included literature, data were charted, collated, summarized and presented as results.

Results

The scoping review included and reviewed only four articles, which reported studies involving transgender persons. No peer‐reviewed original research article on transabled and transracial persons in Africa was found eligible for inclusion in this review. All the reviewed articles focused on at‐risk, healthy and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐uninfected adult participants ranging between the ages of 18 and 65 years. The domains investigated in those articles were on sexual health, HIV preventive drugs and vaccine trials. The reviewed findings showed the use of HIV‐inhibiting medications and HIV screening or testing as vital preventive interventions among transgender persons in Africa. The available research evidence shows sexuality reductionism about trans behaviour by neglecting other health domains.

Conclusion

Health trial research on transracial, transgender and transabled persons is a largely underexplored research domain in Africa. More health intervention trials, beyond the domain of sexual health, are required to improve the health and well‐being of this highly marginalized population group in Africa.
Remaining useful life prediction method for rolling bearings based on hybrid dilated convolution transfer
Authors: Zhang Bo , Hu Changhua , Zhang Hao , Zheng Jianfei , Zhang Jianxun , Pei Hong
Published: May 2024

It is difficult to effectively predict remaining useful life (RUL) due to limited training samples and lack of life labels in some operating conditions of practical engineering. When existing deep learning methods predict the RUL of equipment in such operating conditions using a model trained on other operating conditions, the poor generalization of the model caused by large distribution differences cannot be ignored. In this study, an RUL prediction method based on integrated dilated convolution transfer is proposed. This method jointly adjusts the model parameters by inverting the loss function of the RUL prediction module and the domain adaptive module, and then realizes the extraction of domain‐invariant features between different operating condition data through the feature extraction module, which provides support for transfer RUL prediction between different operating conditions. In the feature extraction module, a one‐dimensional convolution network with a large‐size kernel reduces noise in the original data, which reduces the erroneous effect of noise on the trending expression of the original data, and a hybrid dilated convolution network extracts the features of the different sensory fields of the noise‐reduced data, which increases the richness of the extracted features and thus improves the accuracy of the modeling. Next, the extracted features are fed into the RUL prediction module to predict RUL; into the classification model in the domain adaptation module to divide the source and target domains; and into the distribution difference measurement model in the domain adaptation module to identify the feature distribution differences between the source and target domains, and inversely adjust the model parameters by reducing the distribution differences. Furthermore, domain invariant characteristics of the features in different receptive fields under multiple operating conditions are obtained to enhance the model's generalization ability and achieve RUL prediction across various operating conditions. Monte Carlo (MC) dropout simulation technology is used to quantify the uncertainty of prediction results. Finally, the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method are verified using the prognostics and health management (PHM) 2012 bearing dataset.
Towards biogeomorphic river restoration: Vegetation as a critical driver of physical habitat
Authors: O'Briain Rossa , Corenblit Dov , Garófano‐Gómez Virginia , O'Leary Ciara
Published: May 2024

The current focus of river restoration on flow and sediment transfer without proper consideration of vegetation as a key structuring agent, beyond its stabilising effect, is too simplistic. We contend that vegetation has an essential role in shaping the physical fluvial environment and should be considered equally alongside hydrogeomorphic processes in restoration projects. In support, we introduce engineer plants as important controls, along with flowing water and transported sediments, on the morphodynamics of river systems and associated physical habitat development. The effect of vegetation on channel planform is then summarised, the influence of vegetation on hydrogeomorphic connectivity is outlined, and then the role of vegetation in landform development and habitat provision, as encapsulated in the fluvial biogeomorphic succession model, is described. We then present examples demonstrating how vegetation has contributed to the recovery of degraded rivers through biogeomorphic processes. Finally, we advance the concept of biogeomorphic river restoration by proposing principles to support a closer synthesis of the component sciences and list key areas for practitioners to focus on. Vegetation succession has a significance that goes beyond its physical structure or influence on sediment stability. In many river settings, it is central to channel evolution. The coupled assembly of plant communities and fluvial landforms affect the development of spatially and temporally dynamic habitat through biogeomorphic interactions. Restoration approaches that do not fully consider this dynamic may fail to anticipate river behaviour and recovery trajectories.
Self‐Thermal Management in Filtered Selenium‐Terminated MXene Films for Flexible Safe Batteries
Authors: Pang Xin , Lee Hyunjin , Rong Jingzhi , Zhu Qiaoyu , Xu Shumao
Published: May 2024

Li‐ion batteries with superior interior thermal management are crucial to prevent thermal runaway and ensure safe, long‐lasting operation at high temperatures or during rapid discharging and charging. Typically, such thermal management is achieved by focusing on the separator and electrolyte. Here, the study introduces a Se‐terminated MXene free‐standing electrode with exceptional electrical conductivity and low infrared emissivity, synergistically combining high‐rate capacity with reduced heat radiation for safe, large, and fast Li+ storage. This is achieved through a one‐step organic Lewis acid‐assisted gas‐phase reaction and vacuum filtration. The Se‐terminated Nb2Se2C outperformed conventional disordered O/OH/F‐terminated materials, enhancing Li+‐storage capacity by ≈1.5 times in the fifth cycle (221 mAh·g−1 at 1 A·g−1) and improving mid‐infrared adsorption with low thermal radiation. These benefits result from its superior electrical conductivity, excellent structural stability, and high permittivity in the infrared region. Calculations further reveal that increased permittivity and conductivity along the z‐direction can reduce heat radiation from electrodes. This work highlights the potential of surface groups‐terminated layered material‐based free‐standing flexible electrodes with self‐thermal management ability for safe, fast energy storage.
Enhanced Light Absorption and Photo‐Generated Charge Separation Efficiency for Boosting Photocatalytic H2 Evolution through TiO2 Quantum Dots with N‐Doping and Concomitant Oxygen Vacancy
Authors: Pan Ziwei , Zhu Xi , Liu Yuxin , Yang Long , Jiao Mingyang , Kang Shuai , Luo Jinling , Fu Xie , Lu Wenqiang
Published: May 2024

Low‐range light absorption and rapid recombination of photo‐generated charge carriers have prevented the occurrence of effective and applicable photocatalysis for decades. Quantum dots (QDs) offer a solution due to their size‐controlled photon properties and charge separation capabilities. Herein, well‐dispersed interstitial nitrogen‐doped TiO2 QDs with stable oxygen vacancies (N‐TiO2−x‐VO) are fabricated by using a low‐temperature, annealing‐assisted hydrothermal method. Remarkably, electrostatic repulsion prevented aggregation arising from negative charges accumulated in situ on the surface of N‐TiO2−x‐VO, enabling complete solar spectrum utilization (200–800 nm) with a 2.5 eV bandgap. Enhanced UV‐vis photocatalytic H2 evolution rate (HER) reached 2757 µmol g−1 h−1, 41.6 times higher than commercial TiO2 (66 µmol g−1 h−1). Strikingly, under visible light, HER rate was 189 µmol g−1 h−1. Experimental and simulated studies of mechanisms reveal that VO can serve as an electron reservoir of photo‐generated charge carriers on N‐doped active sites, and consequently, enhance the separation rate of exciton pairs. Moreover, the negative free energy (−0.35 V) indicates more favorable thermodynamics for HER as compared with bulk TiO2 (0.66 V). This research work paves a new way of developing efficient photocatalytic strategies of HER that are applicable in the sustainable carbon‐zero energy supply.
Chiral Self‐Sorting, Spontaneous Resolution, and Hierarchical Self‐Assembly in Metal–Organic Cages
Authors: Ghorai Sandipan , Natarajan Ramalingam
Published: May 2024

The ability to collectively program chiral recognition and the hierarchical self‐assembly of molecular and supramolecular building blocks into complex higher‐order superstructures is a significant goal in supramolecular chemistry. Metal–organic cages are excellent model systems to examine chiral self‐sorting and build hierarchical self‐assembly. Herein, details on how limiting the conformational flexibility and incorporating hydrogen bonding functional groups in the ligands can influence chiral self‐sorting and hierarchical self‐assembly of metal–organic cages are reported. The urea‐functionalized axially chiral bis‐pyridyl ligands afford high‐fidelity in chiral self‐sorting in Pd2L4 cages, when they have fewer conformations. Ligand L1, with more conformations, affords mixture of heterochiral and homochiral cages (≈70:30). Among them, the heterochiral cage adopts unusual twisted conformation and self‐assembles into 2D sheets, linked by anion coordination between urea and nitrate. Ligand L2, with fewer conformations, affords homochiral cages via high‐fidelity chiral self‐sorting. The choice of counter anions influences further self‐sorting in the solid state: racemate with PF6− and spontaneously resolves conglomerate with BF4−. Urea‐BF4 hydrogen bonding directs hierarchical self‐assembly of the Pd2L4 metal–organic cages into super‐cubic networks. The study introduces a new approach in hierarchical self‐assembly of metal–organic cages into higher‐order networks aided by hydrogen bonding anion coordination with functional ligands.
In Situ Constructed Spinel Layer Stabilized Upcycled LiCoO2 for High Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Sun Sisheng , Fan Ersha , Wang Hongyi , Lv Xiaowei , Zhang Xiaodong , Chen Renjie , Wu Feng , Li Li
Published: May 2024

With ever‐increasing requirements for cathodes in the lithium‐ion batteries market, an efficiency and eco‐friendly upcycling regeneration strategy is imperative to meet the demand for high‐performance cathode materials. Herein, a facile, direct and upcycling regeneration strategy is proposed to restore the failed LiCoO2 and enhance the stability at 4.6 V. Double effects combination of relithiation and outside surface reconstruction are simultaneously achieved via a facile solid‐phase sintering method. The evolution process of the Li‐supplement and grain‐recrystallization is systematically investigated, and the high performance of the upcycled materials at high voltage is comprehensively demonstrated. Thanks to the favorable spinel LiCoxMn2−xO4 surface coating, the upcycled sample displays outstanding electrochemical performance, superior to the pristine cathode materials. Notably, the 1% surface‐coated LiCoO2 achieves a high discharge‐specific capacity of 207.9 mA h g−1 at 0.1 C and delivers excellent cyclability with 77.0% capacity retention after 300 cycles. Significantly, this in situ created spinel coating layer can be potentially utilized for recycling spent LiCoO2, thus providing a viable, promising recycling strategy insights into the upcycling of degraded cathodes.
Multimaterial 3D Laser Printing of Cell‐Adhesive and Cell‐Repellent Hydrogels
Authors: Schwegler Niklas , Gebert Tanisha , Villiou Maria , Colombo Federico , Schamberger Barbara , Selhuber‐Unkel Christine , Thomas Franziska , Blasco Eva
Published: May 2024

Here, a straightforward method is reported for manufacturing 3D microstructured cell‐adhesive and cell‐repellent multimaterials using two‐photon laser printing. Compared to existing strategies, this approach offers bottom‐up molecular control, high customizability, and rapid and precise 3D fabrication. The printable cell‐adhesive polyethylene glycol (PEG) based material includes an Arg‐Gly‐Asp (RGD) containing peptide synthesized through solid‐phase peptide synthesis, allowing for precise control of the peptide design. Remarkably, minimal amounts of RGD peptide (< 0.1 wt%) suffice for imparting cell‐adhesiveness, while maintaining identical mechanical properties in the 3D printed microstructures to those of the cell‐repellent, PEG‐based material. Fluorescent labeling of the RGD peptide facilitates visualization of its presence in cell‐adhesive areas. To demonstrate the broad applicability of the system, the fabrication of cell‐adhesive 2.5D and 3D structures is shown, fostering the adhesion of fibroblast cells within these architectures. Thus, this approach allows for the printing of high‐resolution, true 3D structures suitable for diverse applications, including cellular studies in complex environments.
The Micron‐Droplet‐Confined Continuous‐Flow Synthesis of Freestanding High‐Entropy‐Alloy Nanoparticles by Flame Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Luo Lingli , Ju Jie , Xi Menghua , Wu Yingjie , Mao Ningxuan , Yan Shaojiu , Wei Zhong , Jiang Hao , Li Yuhang , Hu Yanjie , Li Chunzhong
Published: May 2024

Alloying multiple immiscible elements into a nanoparticle with single‐phase solid solution structure (high‐entropy‐alloy nanoparticles, HEA‐NPs) merits great potential. To date, various kinds of synthesis techniques of HEA‐NPs are developed; however, a continuous‐flow synthesis of freestanding HEA‐NPs remains a challenge. Here a micron‐droplet‐confined strategy by flame spray pyrolysis (FSP) to achieve the continuous‐flow synthesis of freestanding HEA‐NPs, is proposed. The continuous precursor solution undergoes gas shearing and micro‐explosion to form nano droplets which act as the micron‐droplet‐confined reactors. The ultrafast evolution (<5 ms) from droplets to <10 nm nanoparticles of binary to septenary alloys is achieved through thermodynamic and kinetic control (high temperature and ultrafast colling). Among them, the AuPtPdRuIr HEA‐NPs exhibit excellent electrocatalytic performance for alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction with 23 mV overpotential to achieve 10 mA cm−2, which is twofold better than that of the commercial Pt/C. It is anticipated that the continuous‐flow synthesis by FSP can introduce a new way for the continuous synthesis of freestanding HEA‐NP with a high productivity rate.
A Functional “Key” Amplified Piezoelectric Effect Modulates ROS Storm with an Open Source for Multimodal Synergistic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Yu Chenghao , Li Jialin , Zang Pengyu , Feng Lili , Tian Boshi , Zhao Ruoxi , Xie Ying , Wu Linzhi , Chen Zhigang , Yang Piaoping
Published: May 2024

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) is a non‐invasive strategy for generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and is promising for cancer treatment. However, increasing ROS in tumor therapy remains challenging. Therefore, exogenous excitation and inhibition of electron‐hole pair recombination are attractive for modulating ROS storms in tumors. Herein, a Ce‐doped BiFeO3 (CBFO) piezoelectric sonosensitizer to modulate ROS generation and realize a synergistic mechanism of CDT/sonodynamic therapy and piezodynamic therapy (PzDT) is proposed. The mixed Fe2+ and Ce3+ can implement a circular Fenton/Fenton‐like reaction in the tumor microenvironment. Abundant ·OH can be generated by ultrasound (US) stimulation to enhance CDT efficacy. As a typical piezoelectric sonosensitizer, CBFO can produce O2− owing to the enhanced polarization by the US, resulting in the motion of charge carriers. In addition, CBFO can produce a piezoresponse irradiated upon US, which accelerates the migration rate of electrons/holes in opposite directions and results in energy band bending, further achieving toxic ROS production and realizing PzDT. Density functional theory calculations confirmed that Ce doping shortens the diffusion of electrons and improves the conductivity and catalytic activity of CBFO. This distinct US‐enhanced strategy emphasizes the effects of doping engineering and piezoelectric‐optimized therapy and shows great potential for the treatment of malignant tumors.
Droplet‐Pen Writing of Ultra‐Uniform Graphene Pattern for Multi‐Spectral Applications
Authors: Liao Qihua , Cheng Huhu , Qu Liangti
Published: May 2024

Artificial optical patterns bring wide benefits in applications like structural color display, photonic camouflage, and electromagnetic cloak. Their scalable coating on large‐scale objects will greatly enrich the multimodal‐interactive society. Here, a droplet‐pen writing (DPW) method to directly write multi‐spectral patterns of thin‐film graphene is reported. By amphiphilicity regulations of 2D graphene nanosheets, ultra‐uniform and ultrathin films can spontaneously form on droplet caps and pave to the substrate, thus inducing optical interference. This allows the on‐surface patterning by pen writing of droplets. Specifically, drop‐on‐demand thin films are achieved with millimeter lateral size and uniformity up to 97% in subwavelength thickness (<100 nm), corresponding to an aspect ratio of over 30 000. The pixelated thin‐film patterns of disks and lines in an 8‐inch wafer scale are demonstrated, which enable low‐emittance structural color paintings. Furthermore, the applications of these patterns for dual‐band camouflage and infrared‐to‐visible encryption are investigated. This study highlights the potential of 2D material self‐assembly in the large‐scale preparation and multi‐spectral application of thin film‐based optical patterns.
Moral and managerial perspectives on cooperatives: Towards a Luhmannian reconciliation
Authors: Valentinov Vladislav , Iliopoulos Constantine
Published: May 2024

The recent literature on cooperatives includes two distinct and partly conflicting strands. The moral strand emphasizes cooperatives as a sustainable alternative to shareholder capitalism, while the managerial one problematizes the maintenance organizational costs that must be incurred by these organizations. To reconcile the disparity between these strands, we develop a Luhmannian view of how cooperatives navigate the precarious relationship between the economic function system and the societal environment. On this basis, we show that the maintenance organizational costs plaguing many cooperatives are indicative of an imperfect business case for providing a sustainable alternative to shareholder capitalism. Consequently, we view these costs as a reflection of the heightened managerial challenges involved in pursuing elevated moral objectives.
Lateral Capillary Interaction Between Hexagonal or Triangular‐Shaped TiN Inclusions at the Gas/Steel Interface
Authors: Qiu Zilong , Blanpain Bart , Guo Muxing
Published: May 2024

Understanding the behavior of nonmetallic inclusion at the gas/steel interface is essential for inclusion removal from molten steel. The capillary interaction between triangular and hexagonal TiN inclusion at the gas/steel interface is quantitatively evaluated using the analytical solution and the newly developed sub‐particle model. The analytical solution, which simplifies inclusions into spheres, overestimates the capillary force by 3 and 10 times for triangular and hexagonal inclusions. The meniscus shapes around the particles and the long‐range capillary forces are dependent on the separation distance and their mutual orientation. At a constant center‐to‐center distance, the tip–flat and the side‐by‐side configurations give the strongest capillary interaction for triangular and hexagonal inclusions, respectively. In contrast, the flat–flat configuration is the preferred agglomeration pattern if the surface‐to‐surface distance is constant. The discrepancy might come from the more complex meniscus shapes around the real particles.
Interpretable machine learning model for shear strength estimation of circular concrete‐filled steel tubes
Authors: Mansouri Ali , Mansouri Maryam , Mangalathu Sujith
Published: May 2024

Precise estimation of the shear strength of concrete‐filled steel tubes (CFSTs) is a crucial requirement for the design of these members. The existing design codes and empirical equations are inconsistent in predicting the shear strength of these members. This paper provides a data‐driven approach for the shear strength estimation of circular CFSTs. For this purpose, the authors evaluated and compared the performance of nine machine learning (ML) methods, namely linear regression, decision tree (DT), k‐nearest neighbors (KNN), support vector regression (SVR), random forest (RF), bagging regression (BR), adaptive boosting (AdaBoost), gradient boosting regression tree (GBRT), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) in estimating the shear strength of CFSTs on an experimental database compiled from the results of 230 shear tests on CFSTs in the literature. For each model, hyperparameter tuning was performed by conducting a grid search in combination with k‐fold cross‐validation (CV). Comparing the nine methods in terms of several performance measures showed that the XGBoost model was the most accurate in predicting the shear strength of CFSTs. This model also showed superior accuracy in predicting the shear strength of CFSTs when compared to the formulas provided in design codes and the existing empirical equations. The Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) technique was also used to interpret the results of the XGBoost model. Using SHAP, the features with the greatest impact on the shear strength of CFSTs were found to be the cross‐sectional area of the steel tube, the axial load ratio, and the shear span ratio, in that order.
Optimal sensor placement for joint reconstruction of multiscale responses and unknown inputs using modal Kalman filter
Authors: He Jia , Tong Zhuohui , Zhang Xiaoxiong , Chen Zhengqing
Published: May 2024

Many optimal sensor placement (OSP) techniques have been developed basing on known external loads. However, it is often difficult to obtain excitation measurements. Therefore, the development of OSP under unknown inputs (OSP‐UI) is desirable. In this paper, based on modal Kalman filter (MKF), an OSP‐UI approach (MKF‐OSP‐UI) is proposed for optimally determining the number and locations of multitype sensors with the aim of minimizing the reconstructed responses errors. An MKF‐based approach previously developed by the authors is first employed for estimating multiscale structural responses and unknown loads. Then, an error covariance matrix is defined as a measure of the differences between the reconstructed responses and the corresponding actual ones. By using the covariance matrix of measurement noise for normalization, the ill‐conditioning problem caused by data fusion of multiscale responses is avoided. The sensors that have few contributions to the reconstructed responses are removed from the candidate set during iteration procedure. The sensor placement is finally determined when the estimation errors are below the preset level. Numerical results show that the sensor configuration determined by the proposed approach has a better performance on the joint estimation of multiscale responses and unknown inputs, as compared with that determined by experience.
Testing seed germination from herbaria: Application of seed quality enhancement techniques and implication for plant resurrection and conservation
Authors: Albani Rocchetti Giulia , Brancaleoni Lisa , Caneva Giulia , Cona Alessandra , Fabrini Giuseppe , Fraudentali Ilaria , Galasso Gabriele , Godefroid Sandrine , Iberite Mauro , Lastrucci Lorenzo , Loze Laurence , Mayer Alfred , Mondoni Andrea , Orsenigo Simone , Porro Francesco , Stauffer Fred , Rimessi Alice , Tilia Agnese , Volpi Annarita , Abeli Thomas
Published: May 2024

Herbaria are an important source of data and material useful in many fields, including plant conservation. Seeds preserved in herbarium specimens may have the potential to germinate, although few studies focused on this topic. Here, the first systematic assessment of six techniques, including priming techniques and melatonin application, aimed at improving the germination of seeds from herbarium specimens is presented. Seed germination of 26 species common in Europe, some of which congeneric to extinct species, collected in herbaria and in the wild (20,549 seeds in total, including 19,509 from 297 herbarium specimens from 8 different herbaria) was tested with the following treatments: exogenous melatonin addition to the germination medium, priming with melatonin, osmopriming, hydropriming for 24 and 48 hours, standard soil, heat sterilization and gibberellins addition. More than 85% of the fresh seeds and 1% of the seeds collected in herbaria germinated, including seeds older than 50 years. Data show that treatment with exogenous melatonin had a positive effect on the germination of fresh seeds, but a negative effect on the germination of herbarium‐derived seeds. Furthermore, osmopriming treatment had a slightly positive effect on the germination of herbarium‐derived seeds. Osmopriming and exogenous melatonin addition seem to be promising techniques that need further investigation and improvement and might be useful for the development of an optimal germination protocol for old and herbarium‐derived seeds. The germination of seeds from herbaria could be an important tool in plant conservation, with the aim of reversing the extinction trend of many species through de‐extinction, safeguarding biodiversity, and genetic variability. This study provides preliminary data for the development of germination protocols, especially for old seeds of species of conservation interest, to maximise the chance of recovering lost genetic diversity and leading to the first de‐extinction ever.
Solitary eosinophilic granulocytic sarcoma in a dog
Authors: Hu Shou‐Ping , Xiao Fei , Zhang Zhuo , Jiang Yan , Mao Dong‐Sheng , Wang Jing‐Fei , He Xi‐Jun
Published: May 2024

A 6‐year‐old male golden retriever presented with swelling of the left upper eyelid of 2 months duration, which did not improve following a course of antibiotics. Routine serum biochemistry, complete blood count and diagnostic imaging identified no clinically significant abnormalities. The mass was surgically excised, and histopathologic examination was performed. Eosinophilic granulocytic sarcoma (GS) was diagnosed based on the results of histopathology and immunohistochemistry. This is the first report of GS affecting the eyelid of a dog.