bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of treatment workflow for 0.35T MR‐Linac system
Authors: Behzadipour Mojtaba , Palta Jatinder , Ma Tianjun , Yuan Lulin , Kim Siyong , Kirby Suzanne , Torkelson Laurel , Baker James , Koenig Tammy , Khalifa Mateb Al , Hawranko Robert , Richeson Dylan , Fields Emma , Weiss Elisabeth , Song William Y.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study presents a novel and comprehensive framework for evaluating magnetic resonance guided radiotherapy (MRgRT) workflow by integrating the Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) approach with Time‐Driven Activity‐Based Costing (TDABC). We assess the workflow for safety, quality, and economic implications, providing a holistic understanding of the MRgRT implementation. The aim is to offer valuable insights to healthcare practitioners and administrators, facilitating informed decision‐making regarding the 0.35T MRIdian MR‐Linac system's clinical workflow.

Methods

For FMEA, a multidisciplinary team followed the TG‐100 methodology to assess the MRgRT workflow's potential failure modes. Following the mitigation of primary failure modes and workflow optimization, a treatment process was established for TDABC analysis. The TDABC was applied to both MRgRT and computed tomography guided RT (CTgRT) for typical five‐fraction stereotactic body RT (SBRT) treatments, assessing total workflow and costs associated between the two treatment workflows.

Results

A total of 279 failure modes were identified, with 31 categorized as high‐risk, 55 as medium‐risk, and the rest as low‐risk. The top 20% risk priority numbers (RPN) were determined for each radiation oncology care team member. Total MRgRT and CTgRT costs were assessed. Implementing technological advancements, such as real‐time multi leaf collimator (MLC) tracking with volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), auto‐segmentation, and increasing the Linac dose rate, led to significant cost savings for MRgRT.

Conclusion

In this study, we integrated FMEA with TDABC to comprehensively evaluate the workflow and the associated costs of MRgRT compared to conventional CTgRT for five‐fraction SBRT treatments. FMEA analysis identified critical failure modes, offering insights to enhance patient safety. TDABC analysis revealed that while MRgRT provides unique advantages, it may involve higher costs. Our findings underscore the importance of exploring cost‐effective strategies and key technological advancements to ensure the widespread adoption and financial sustainability of MRgRT in clinical practice.
Data‐driven based optimal output feedback control with low computation cost
Authors: Yu Xinyi , Yu Jiaqi , Zhang Yongqi , Wu Jiaxin , Wei Yan , Ou Linlin
Published: May 2024

A partial model‐free, data‐driven adaptive optimal output feedback (OPFB) control scheme with low computational cost continuous‐time is proposed in this paper. The design objective is to obtain the optimal control law by using measurable input and output data, without some knowledge of system model information. Firstly, the system states are decoupled into measurable and unmeasurable parts, and a new state‐space equation is built to estimate the unmeasurable states by using a reduced‐order observer. Based on this, a parametrization method is utilized to reconstruct the system states. Subsequently, by using the reconstructed states, the adaptive dynamic programming (ADP) Bellman equations based on policy‐iteration (PI) and value‐iteration (VI) are presented to solve the control problems with initially stable and unstable conditions, respectively. Then, the convergence of the system is proved. Compared with the early proposed OPFB algorithms, only the unknown internal state needs to be reconstructed. Therefore, the computation cost and design complexity are reduced for the proposed scheme. The effectiveness of the proposed scheme is verified through two numerical simulations. In addition, a practical inverted pendulum experiment is carried out to demonstrate the performance of the proposed scheme.
Engineering Photothermal and H2S‐Producing Living Nanomedicine by Bacteria‐Enabled Self‐Mineralization
Authors: Wang Weiyi , Song Jun , Yu Weijie , Chen Meng , Li Guangru , Chen Jinli , Chen Liang , Yu Luodan , Chen Yu
Published: May 2024

Bacteria‐initiated cancer therapy has been demonstrated high therapeutic efficacy against cancer. However, the undesired therapeutic efficacy and induced systematic inflammation storm compromise the therapeutic effect and outcome. Herein, a thermally‐activated living nanomedicine composed of reactive biohybrid (designated as Sa@FeS) is rationally designed and engineered for enhancing hydrogen sulfide (H2S)‐combined chemodynamic oncotherapy by biomineralizing ferrous sulfide nanoparticles (FeS NPs) onto the surface of a Salmonella typhimurium strain (Sa) without reducing bacterial activity. Ascribed to the deep penetration capability of Sa, FeS NPs facilitate photothermally‐enhanced catalytic Fenton reaction of decomposing endogenous H2O2 into cytotoxic hydroxyl radicals deep in tumor tissues upon near infrared irradiation. Meanwhile, Sa bacteria maintain sustained H2S release within tumor for achieving H2S‐induced intracellular acidosis that favors the generation of reactive oxygen species synergistically. Of note, the thermally‐triggered all‐in‐one strategy effectively inhibits bacterial viability, thus reducing the risk of systematic inflammation storm and ensuring biosafety. Therefore, the engineered nano‐bacteria living system exerts the thermally‐enhanced nanocatalytic and gas therapies to effectively eradicate tumors, providing a distinct paradigm for the combination of synthetic biology and nanomedicine in tumor therapy.
Stimuli‐Responsive Aptamer‐Drug Conjugates for Targeted Drug Delivery and Controlled Drug Release
Authors: Zhu Shanshan , Gao Huan , Li Wenyuan , He Xiaocong , Jiang Panpan , Xu Feng , Jin Guorui , Guo Hui
Published: May 2024

Chemotherapy is widely used for cancer therapy but with unsatisfied efficacy, mainly due to the inefficient delivery of anticancer agents. Among the critical “five steps” drug delivery process, internalization into tumor cells and intracellular drug release are two important steps for the overall therapeutic efficiency. Strategy based on active targeting or TME‐responsive is developed individually to improve therapeutic efficiency, but with limited improvement. However, the combination of these two strategies could potentially augment the drug delivery efficiency and therapeutic efficiency, consequently. Therefore, this work constructs a library of stimuli‐responsive aptamer‐drug conjugates (srApDCs), as “dual‐targeted” strategy for cancer treatment that enables targeted drug delivery and controlled drug release. Specifically, this work uses different stimuli‐responsive linkers to conjugate a tumor‐targeting aptamer (i.e., AS1411) with drugs, forming the library of srApDCs for targeted cancer treatment. This design hypothesis is validated by the experimental data, which indicated that the aptamer could selectively enhance uptake of the srApDCs and the linkers could be cleaved by pathological cues in the TME to release the drug payload, leading to a significant enhancement of therapeutic efficacy. These results underscore the potential of the approach, providing a promising methodology for cancer therapy.
Injectable 2D Material‐Based Sensor Array for Minimally Invasive Neural Implants
Authors: Kim Jejung , Hong Juyeong , Park Kyungtai , Lee Sangwon , Hoang Anh Tuan , Pak Sojeong , Zhao Huilin , Ji Seunghyeon , Yang Sungchil , Chung Chun Kee , Yang Sunggu , Ahn Jong‐Hyun
Published: May 2024

Intracranial implants for diagnosis and treatment of brain diseases have been developed over the past few decades. However, the platform of conventional implantable devices still relies on invasive probes and bulky sensors in conjunction with large‐area craniotomy and provides only limited biometric information. Here, an implantable multi‐modal sensor array that can be injected through a small hole in the skull and inherently spread out for conformal contact with the cortical surface is reported. The injectable sensor array, composed of graphene multi‐channel electrodes for neural recording and electrical stimulation and MoS2‐based sensors for monitoring intracranial temperature and pressure, is designed based on a mesh structure whose elastic restoring force enables the contracted device to spread out. It is demonstrated that the sensor array injected into a rabbit's head can detect epileptic discharges on the surface of the cortex and mitigate it by electrical stimulation while monitoring both intracranial temperature and pressure. This method provides good potential for implanting a variety of functional devices via minimally invasive surgery.
Instantaneous Thermal Energy for Swift Synthesis of Single‐Atom Catalysts for Unparalleled Performance in Metal–Air Batteries and Fuel Cells
Authors: Jang Injoon , Lee Sehyun , Kim Dong‐gun , Paidi Vinod K. , Lee Sujin , Kim Nam Dong , Jung Jae Young , Lee Kug‐Seung , Lim Hyung‐Kyu , Kim Pil , Yoo Sung Jong
Published: May 2024

Based on experimental and computational evidence, phthalocyanine (Pc) compounds in the form of quaternary‐bound metal‐nitrogen (N) atoms are the most effective catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, the heat treatment process used in their synthesis may compromise the ideal structure, causing the agglomeration of transition metals. To overcome this issue, a novel method is developed for synthesizing iron (Fe) single‐atom catalysts with ideal structures supported by thermally exfoliated graphene oxide (GO). This is achieved through a short heat treatment of only 2.5 min involving FePc and N, N‐dimethylformamide in the presence of GO. According to the synthesis mechanism revealed by this study, carbon monoxide acts as a strong linker between the single Fe atoms and graphene. It facilitates the formation of a structure containing oxygen species between FeN4 and graphene, which provides high activity and stability for the ORR. These catalysts possess an enormous number of active sites and exhibit enhanced activity toward the alkaline ORR. They demonstrate excellent performance when applied to real electrochemical devices, such as zinc–air batteries and anion exchange membrane fuel cells. It is expected that the instantaneous heat treatment method developed in this study will aid in the development of high‐performing single‐atom catalysts.
Active Passivation of Anion Vacancies in Antimony Selenide Film for Efficient Solar Cells
Authors: Cai Zhiyuan , Che Bo , Gu Yuehao , Xiao Peng , Wu Lihui , Liang Wenhao , Zhu Changfei , Chen Tao
Published: May 2024

Binary antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) is a promising inorganic light‐harvesting material with high stability, nontoxicity, and wide light harvesting capability. In this photovoltaic material, it has been recognized that deep energy level defects with large carrier capture cross section, such as VSe (selenium vacancy), lead to serious open‐circuit voltage (VOC) deficit and in turn limit the achievable power conversion efficiency (PCE) of Sb2Se3 solar cells. Understanding the nature of deep‐level defects and establishing effective method to eliminate the defects are vital to improving VOC. In this study, a novel directed defect passivation strategy is proposed to suppress the formation of VSe and maintain the composition and morphology of Sb2Se3 film. In particular, through systematic study on the evolution of defect properties, the pathway of defect passivation reaction is revealed. Owing to the inhibition of defect‐assisted recombination, the VOC increases, resulting in an improvement of PCE from 7.69% to 8.90%, which is the highest efficiency of Sb2Se3 solar cells prepared by thermal evaporation method with superstrate device configuration. This study proposes a new understanding of the nature of deep‐level defects and enlightens the fabrication of high quality Sb2Se3 thin film for solar cell applications.
Solution‐Processed Tandem Quantum‐Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes with Dual Charge Generation Interfaces: Achieving Over Threefold Efficiency Enhancement
Authors: Meng Shu‐Guang , Shen Wan‐Shan , Liu Wei‐Zhi , Li Sheng‐Nan , Zhou Dong‐Ying , Liao Liang‐Sheng
Published: May 2024

Despite the commercialization of thermally evaporated tandem organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), challenges remain for solution‐processed tandem quantum‐dot light‐emitting diodes (QLEDs), including low efficiency and solvent‐induced damage to functional layers. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the optimization of the interconnecting layer (ICL) design in order to fabricate high‐performance solution‐processed tandem QLEDs. Here, by introducing a phosphomolybdic acid (PMA) layer between poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) and poly(9‐vinylcarbazole) (PVK), an novel ICL, PVK/PMA/PEDOT:PSS/ZnO is proposed, with dual charge generation interfaces (CGIs): PVK/PMA and PEDOT:PSS/ZnO. The PMA interlayer serves not only smoothing the morphology of PEDOT:PSS to improve charge transport, but also forming a PVK/PMA CGI to enhance charge generation. Based on the excellent electrical and optical properties of the dual‐CGI ICL, the solution‐processed inverted tandem red QLEDs achieve an increased external quantum efficiency (EQE) of over three times compared to single‐junction devices. This provides a novel approach for the high‐efficiency solution‐processed tandem QLEDs, paving the way for the practical application of QLEDs.
Equal Rights for Activators – Ytterbium to Terbium Cooperative Sensitization in Molecular Upconversion
Authors: Pini Federico , Knighton Richard C. , Soro Lohona K. , Charbonnière Loïc J. , Natile Marta M. , Hildebrandt Niko
Published: May 2024

Molecular scaffolds are ideal for investigating upconversion (UC) at the highest spatial resolution and to create precisely controllable luminescent materials. Such control may be the key to overcoming the limitations of brightness and reproducibility found in UC micro‐ and nanoparticles. Cooperative UC can significantly increase luminescence brightness and bulk studies showed that highest efficiencies can be obtained by sensitizer‐to‐activator ion ratios  ≥ 2, that is, via high probabilities of sensitizing the emitting lanthanide ion. Using nonanuclear molecular complexes, the authors demonstrate both experimentally and theoretically that interion distances are more relevant and that the highest UC efficiencies are actually attained for sensitizer‐to‐activator ion ratios around 1. By modeling accretive and cooperative sensitization UC, energy migration, and fitting experimental data, it is revealed that cooperative sensitization is predominant for the determination of UC luminescence intensities, whereas energy migration defines UC luminescence kinetics. The implementation of interion distances and different energy transfer mechanisms into advanced modeling of experimental UC data will be paramount for designing brighter and better UC materials.
Photosynthetic Bacteria‐Hitchhiking 2D iMXene‐mRNA Vaccine to Enable Photo‐Immunogene Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhang Shen , Yu Jifeng , Liu Yunyun , Xiong Bing , Fang Yan , Zhu Yuli , Li Shaoyue , Sun Liping , Zhou Boyang , Sun Yikang , Wang Lifan , Yue Wenwen , Yin Haohao , Xu Huixiong
Published: May 2024

Therapeutic mRNA vaccines have become powerful therapeutic tools for severe diseases, including infectious diseases and malignant neoplasms. mRNA vaccines encoding tumor‐associated antigens provide unprecedented hope for many immunotherapies that have hit the bottleneck. However, the application of mRNA vaccines is limited because of biological instability, innate immunogenicity, and ineffective delivery in vivo. This study aims to construct a novel mRNA vaccine delivery nanosystem to successfully co‐deliver a tumor‐associated antigen (TAA) encoded by the Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1) mRNA. In this system, named PSB@Nb1.33C/mRNA, photosynthetic bacteria (PSB) efficiently delivers the iMXene‐WT1 mRNA to the core tumor region using photo‐driven and hypoxia‐driven properties. The excellent photothermal therapeutic (PTT) properties of PSB and 2D iMxene (Nb1.33C) trigger tumor immunogenic cell death, which boosts the release of the WT1 mRNA. The released WT1 mRNA is translated, presenting the TAA and amplifying immune effect in vivo. The designed therapeutic strategy demonstrates an excellent ability to inhibit distant tumors and counteract postsurgical lung metastasis. Thus, this study provides an innovative and effective paradigm for tumor immunotherapy, i.e., photo‐immunogene cancer therapy, and establishes an efficient delivery platform for mRNA vaccines, thereby opening a new path for the wide application of mRNA vaccines.
Low‐Temperature Nanosecond Laser Process of HZO‐IGZO FeFETs toward Monolithic 3D System on Chip Integration
Authors: Kim Dongsu , Jeong Heejae , Pyo Goeun , Heo Su Jin , Baik Seunghun , Kim Seonhyoung , Choi Hong Soo , Kwon Hyuk‐Jun , Jang Jae Eun
Published: May 2024

Ferroelectric field‐effect transistors (FeFETs) are increasingly important for in‐memory computing and monolithic 3D (M3D) integration in system‐on‐chip (SoC) applications. However, the high‐temperature processing required by most ferroelectric memories can lead to thermal damage to the underlying device layers, which poses significant physical limitations for 3D integration processes. To solve this problem, the study proposes using a nanosecond pulsed laser for selective annealing of hafnia‐based FeFETs, enabling precise control of heat penetration depth within thin films. Sufficient thermal energy is delivered to the IGZO oxide channel and HZO ferroelectric gate oxide without causing thermal damage to the bottom layer, which has a low transition temperature (<250 °C). Using optimized laser conditions, a fast response time (<1 µs) and excellent stability (cycle > 106, retention > 106 s) are achieved in the ferroelectric HZO film. The resulting FeFET exhibited a wide memory window (>1.7 V) with a high on/off ratio (>105). In addition, moderate ferroelectric properties (2·Pr of 14.7 µC cm−2) and pattern recognition rate‐based linearity (potentiation: 1.13, depression: 1.6) are obtained. These results demonstrate compatibility in HZO FeFETs by specific laser annealing control and thin‐film layer design for various structures (3D integrated, flexible) with neuromorphic applications.
Enhanced Electrochemical Performance of Disordered Rocksalt Cathodes in a Localized High‐Concentration Electrolyte
Authors: Ahmed Ridwan A. , Koirala Krishna P. , Lee Gi‐Hyeok , Li Tianyu , Zhao Qian , Fu Yanbao , Zhong Lirong , Daddona Joseph D. , Zuba Mateusz , Siu Carrie , Kahvecioglu Ozgenur , Battaglia Vincent S. , Clément Raphaële J. , Yang Wanli , Wang Chongmin , Xu Wu
Published: May 2024

Lithium (Li)‐rich transition metal oxide cathodes with a cation disordered rock salt structure (DRX) are increasingly gaining popularity for advanced Li batteries as they offer high capacity and cost benefits over the commonly used layered Li transition metal oxide cathodes. However, the performance of DRX cathodes and their applications are limited by severe side reactions between the cathode and the state‐of‐the‐art carbonate‐based electrolytes at high voltage of 4.8 V, transition metal dissolution, and structural instability of the cathode particles. In this work, an advanced localized high‐concentration electrolyte (LHCE) is developed to form a stable cathode‐electrolyte interphase and mitigate structural instability of the Li1.13Mn0.66Ti0.21O2 (LMTO) DRX during electrochemical cycling. Li||LMTO half cells with the LHCE demonstrate increased capacity, cycling stability, and superior rate capability compared with cells containing a conventional carbonate electrolyte. For instance, the Li||LMTO cells cycled in LHCE show a higher initial capacity of 205.2 mAh g−1 and a better capacity retention of 72.5% after 200 cycles at a current density of 20 mA g−1 than those with the conventional electrolyte (initial capacity of 187.7 mAh g−1 and capacity retention of 19.9%). This work paves the way to the development of practical DRX cathode‐based high‐energy Li batteries.
Precise Modulation and Densification of Metal Sites in Single‐Atom Catalysts for Energy Storage and Conversion
Authors: Liu Xiaoqing , Peng Wei , Tan Haotian , Sang Zhiyuan , Liang Ji
Published: May 2024

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) exhibit excellent electrocatalytic performance in various catalytic reactions. However, the low metal loading (<1.0 wt.%) and the difficulty in precisely modulating their coordination configurations hinder the practical yield of target products and the understanding of actual reaction mechanisms. To overcome these obstacles, a series of strategies are proposed to design SACs with a precise coordination configuration and/or a high density of active sites. For an insightful and comprehensive understanding of these strategies, it is worth analyzing and categorizing them according to their intrinsic mechanisms and applicational perspectives. In this review, the synthesis strategies of precise and/or high‐density SACs are first summarized. Moreover, taking typical electrochemical processes, including oxygen reduction reaction, nitrogen reduction reaction, and carbon dioxide reduction reaction, metal–sulfur batteries, etc., as examples, the applications of these SACs are discussed, focusing on their advantages in enhancing the yield of target products, improving the efficiency of energy storage, and revealing the unique effects. Finally, the challenges and perspective of precise modulation and densification of metal sites for SACs are proposed. It is expected that this review can provide a useful reference for the design and preparation of high‐density and/or controllably coordinated SACs.
Correcting the record: Phonetic potential of primate vocal tracts and the legacy of Philip Lieberman (1934−2022)
Authors: Ekström Axel G.
Published: May 2024

The phonetic potential of nonhuman primate vocal tracts has been the subject of considerable contention in recent literature. Here, the work of Philip Lieberman (1934−2022) is considered at length, and two research papers—both purported challenges to Lieberman's theoretical work—and a review of Lieberman's scientific legacy are critically examined. I argue that various aspects of Lieberman's research have been consistently misinterpreted in the literature. A paper by Fitch et al. overestimates the would‐be “speech‐ready” capacities of a rhesus macaque, and the data presented nonetheless supports Lieberman's principal position—that nonhuman primates cannot articulate the full extent of human speech sounds. The suggestion that no vocal anatomical evolution was necessary for the evolution of human speech (as spoken by all normally developing humans) is not supported by phonetic or anatomical data. The second challenge, by Boë et al., attributes vowel‐like qualities of baboon calls to articulatory capacities based on audio data; I argue that such “protovocalic” properties likely result from disparate articulatory maneuvers compared to human speakers. A review of Lieberman's scientific legacy by Boë et al. ascribes a view of speech evolution (which the authors term “laryngeal descent theory”) to Lieberman, which contradicts his writings. The present article documents a pattern of incorrect interpretations of Lieberman's theoretical work in recent literature. Finally, the apparent trend of vowel‐like formant dispersions in great ape vocalization literature is discussed with regard to Lieberman's theoretical work. The review concludes that the “Lieberman account” of primate vocal tract phonetic capacities remains supported by research: the ready articulation of fully human speech reflects species‐unique anatomy.
Sequential Selective Dissolution of Coinage Metals in Recyclable Ionic Media
Authors: Zupanc Anže , Install Joseph , Weckman Timo , Melander Marko M. , Heikkilä Mikko J. , Kemell Marianna , Honkala Karoliina , Repo Timo
Published: May 2024

Coinage metals Cu, Ag, and Au are essential for modern electronics and their recycling from waste materials is becoming increasingly important to guarantee the security of their supply. Designing new sustainable and selective procedures that would substitute currently used processes is crucial. Here, we describe an unprecedented approach for the sequential dissolution of single metals from Cu, Ag, and Au mixtures using biomass‐derived ionic solvents and green oxidants. First, Cu can be selectively dissolved in the presence of Ag and Au with a choline chloride/urea/H2O2 mixture, followed by the dissolution of Ag in lactic acid/H2O2. Finally, the metallic Au, which is not soluble in either solution above, is dissolved in choline chloride/urea/Oxone. Subsequently, the metals were simply and quantitatively recovered from dissolutions, and the solvents were recycled and reused. The applicability of the developed approach was demonstrated by recovering metals from electronic waste substrates such as printed circuit boards, gold fingers, and solar panels. The dissolution reactions and selectivity were explored with different analytical techniques and DFT calculations. We anticipate our approach will pave a new way for the contemporary and sustainable recycling of multi‐metal waste substrates.
Upgrading Electrolyte Antioxidant Chemistry by Constructing Potential Scaling Relationship
Authors: Li Ruhong , Wu Zunchun , Zhang Shuoqing , Liu Jia , Fan Liwu , Deng Tao , Chen Lixin , Fan Xiulin
Published: May 2024

Rational design of advanced electrolytes to improve the high‐voltage capability has been attracting wide attention as one critical solution to enable next‐generation high‐energy‐density batteries. However, the limited understanding of electrolyte antioxidant chemistry as well as the lack of valid quantization approaches have resulted in knowledge gap, which hinders the formulation of new electrolytes. Herein, we construct a standard curve based on representative solvation structures to quantify the oxidation stability of ether‐based electrolytes, which reveals the linear correlation between the oxidation potential and the atomic charge of the least oxidation‐resistant solvent. Dictated by the regularity between solvation composition and oxidation potential, a (Trifluoromethyl)cyclohexane‐based localized high‐concentration electrolyte dominated by anion‐less solvation structures was designed to optimize the cycling performance of 4.5 V 30 μm‐Li||3.8 mAh cm−2‐LiCoO2 batteries, which maintained 80 % capacity retention even after 440 cycles. The consistency of experimental and computational results validates the proposed principles, offering a fundamental guideline to evaluate and design aggressive electrochemical systems.
Value‐added use of spent coffee ground for low‐cost poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) biocomposite development
Authors: Zhao Xiaoying , Presnell Kaylee , Tolu Lawal , Vodovotz Yael
Published: May 2024

Manufacturing PHBV biocomposites with spent coffee ground (SCG) is an eco‐friendly approach of repurposing waste materials to improve sustainability. Although, as shown previously, pretreatments of SCG can improve its interaction with PHBV to obtain enhanced properties, the chemical or biological treatment could be time‐consuming, costly, and environmentally harmful. Therefore, this study developed a method of manufacturing PHBV/SCG biocomposites via a simple and industrially viable reactive extrusion method requiring no SCG pretreatment. The present work aims at investigating the impact of untreated SCG combined with different processing additives (peroxide, coagent, and chain extender) on the morphological, thermal, mechanical, and water absorption properties of PHBV‐based biocomposites. Overall, the introduction of the untreated SCG (10–30 wt.%, without processing additives) decreased the crystallinity (by 3.8%–6.8%), degradation temperature (Tpeak, by 6.2%–8.2%) and tensile strain (by 33%–43%) of PHBV. SCG addition had no significant effect on PHBV tensile strength or Young's modulus. However, the presence of processing additives decreased the melting temperature (by up to 4.5°C), crystallinity (by up to 8.4%) and Young's modulus (by up to 17%) and increased the degradation temperature (Tpeak, by up to 12.5°C) of the PHBV/SCG biocomposites (10% wt.% SCG). Lastly, SCG addition improved water absorption ability of PHBV by up to 250%, while the addition of peroxide further improved the water absorption ability by approximate 320%. The PHBV/SCG developed in this study have good renewability and biodegradability, improved water absorption property, reduced cost and acceptable mechanical properties. They are promising in applications where biodegradability is favorable and high mechanical performance is not required such as plant pots and containers.
Insights to Oxygen Vacancy Engineering of TiO2 Anode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Qi , Teng Hao , Wang Xinxin , Yang Xuelin , Sun Dan , Tang Yougen , Wang Haiyan
Published: May 2024

Rational construction of oxygen vacancies in electrode materials can effectively enhance the comprehensive sodium storage performance of the material. However, how to precisely control and regulate the oxygen vacancies concentration remains to be investigated, and the impact on electrochemical performance is still unclear. Herein, TiO2 nanoparticles with tunable oxygen vacancies concentrations are used as research models, which were fabricated through a simple and effective plasma method. The experimental results reveal that a moderate concentration of oxygen vacancies can significantly improve the electrochemical kinetics and charge conductivity of the TiO2 electrodes. In addition, oxygen vacancies promote the release of fluorine from the fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) in the electrolyte, inducing a NaF‐rich solid electrolyte interphase, thus ensuring interfacial stability and inhibiting excessive electrolyte decomposition. Consequently, the well‐designed anode exhibits outstanding rate capability (147 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1) and extremely stable cycling performance (nearly 100 %, 3000 cycles). This work provides a feasible method for realizing defect concentration modulation in energy storage materials and offers new insights into interfacial chemistry for improving battery performance.
The pursuit of the ideal self: An investigation of the relationship of authenticity and ideal self‐congruence
Authors: Zogaj Adnan , Mähner Philipp M. , Tscheulin Dieter K.
Published: May 2024

Research suggests that authentic branding strategies should focus on consumers' actual self rather than their ideal self; that is, brands that match consumers' ideal self are perceived as too psychologically distant from their present self and, thus, as inauthentic. This study challenges this prevailing notion by proposing the novel perspective that ideal self‐congruence is more influential than actual self‐congruence in driving authenticity. Contrary to the view that brands matching consumers' ideal self are deemed inauthentic due to psychological distance, our research, encompassing four empirical studies, demonstrates that ideal self‐congruence significantly enhances positive authentic pride while effectively reducing negative hubristic pride more than actual self‐congruence. Furthermore, this study not only reveals that ideal self‐congruence is more strongly associated with authentic pride than actual self‐congruence but also reshapes the theoretical understanding of the role of self‐congruence in the realm of authenticity. Our findings therefore contradict previously cited but hardly empirical arguments by demonstrating that ideally self‐congruent brands positively affect perceived brand authenticity more than actually self‐congruent brands. Thus, we recommend brands to focus authentic marketing strategies on consumers' ideal self to positively influence consumer behavior.
Splenic artery steal syndrome after liver transplantation: A case series and review of literature
Authors: Saad Eddin Assim , Kamaraju Abhiram , Ramzan Umar , Yu Jay , Dadwal Surbhi , Laroia Sandeep
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Splenic steal syndrome (SASS) represents a challenge to interventional radiologists after orthotopic liver transplantation. In this case series, we present three cases of patients who developed SASS after their liver transplants.
Recyclability of Paper‐Based Composites for Packaging Applications – The Role of Evaluation Methods
Authors: Kochersperger Summer , Schabel Samuel
Published: May 2024

Composites are pivotal in Europe's evolving packaging sector, which is undergoing changes due to circular and bioeconomy initiatives, which prioritize eco‐friendly packaging. Despite paper's high recycling rates, dynamic markets challenge recycling and circularity. Innovative paper‐based composites demand flexible recyclability assessments, which impacts product development. Recyclability methods are evolving as they struggle to match the dynamic changes occurring in the packaging sector. This article outlines paper recycling and compares global lab recyclability evaluation methods.
Copper‐Nickel Alloy Modified‐Silicon Photoanodes for Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation and Urea Oxidation
Authors: Klahan Kanokwan , Loget Gabriel , Pattanasattayavong Pichaya
Published: May 2024

The development of silicon (Si) photoanodes for photoelectrochemical (PEC) oxidation is highly crucial for the progress of solar‐driven hydrogen production. Apart from the typical water oxidation reaction or oxygen evolution reaction (OER), the urea oxidation reaction (UOR) is gaining more attention due to favorable thermodynamics. In this work, we study Si photoanodes modified with electrodeposited copper‐nickel (CuNi) alloy for OER and UOR. The optimized photoanodes exhibit a low onset potential of 1.15 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) and a current density of 6 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V vs RHE (the thermodynamic potential for water oxidation) for OER. Further, CuNi alloy‐modified photoanodes can drive the UOR at a lower onset potential (1.05 V vs RHE) and generate a higher current density of 31 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V vs RHE. Importantly, the CuNi alloy can extend the stability for UOR under PEC conditions when compared to a planar Ni film deposited by a vacuum‐based process. This work demonstrates that CuNi alloy can further improve the properties of inhomogeneous metal‐insulator‐semiconductor Si photoanodes which can be efficiently utilized for both OER and UOR.
MCMPI: A library with elasticity for multi‐domain and public cloud environments
Authors: Aguni Carlos A. T. , Sato Liria M. , Midorikawa Edson T.
Published: May 2024

This article introduces a new library that leverages and extends the MPI (message passing interface) standard, capable of aggregating servers and clusters located in multiple domains, as well as cloud resources. The execution platform is created and presented to the MPI application transparently, without the need of recompiling any code. The solution also provides functions for provisioning, adding, and removing nodes at runtime, bringing elasticity to the application. Through benchmarks, its performance was compared with the native execution of the application using the native MPI library. A prototype of an elastic application was also developed, with positive results within the expected range.
On the CO2 Harvesting from N2 Using Grazyne Membranes
Authors: Calzada Adrià , Viñes Francesc , Gamallo Pablo
Published: May 2024

The separation of carbon dioxide (CO2) from nitrogen (N2) is at the core of any global warming remediation technology aimed at reducing the CO2 content in the atmosphere. Chemical membranes designed to differentially permeate both molecules have become quite appealing due to their simple use, although many membrane‐based separations stand out as a promising solution for CO2 separation. These are environmentally friendly, with high active surface areas, compact design, easy to maintain and cost‐effective, although the field is still growing due to the difficulties in the CO2/N2 separation. The present study poses grazynes, two‐dimensional C‐based materials with sp and sp2 C atoms, aligned along stripes, as suited membranes for the CO2/N2 separation. The combination of density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations allow tackling the energetics, kinetics, and dynamics of the membrane effectiveness of grazynes with engineered pores for such a separation in a holistic fashion. The explored grazynes are capable of physisorbing CO2 and N2, thus avoiding material poisoning by molecular decoration, while the diffusion of CO2 through the pores is found to be rapid, yet easier than that of N2, in the rate order of the s−1 in the 100–500 K temperature range. In particular, low‐temperature CO2 separation even for CO2 contents below 0.5 % are found for [1],[2]{2}‐grazyne when controlling the membrane exposure contact to the gas mixture, paving the way for exploring and using grazynes for air CO2 remediation.
A novel hybrid‐multiplexed fifteen‐switch converter with AC and DC outputs
Authors: Wang Jianfei , Wang Guifeng , Zhu Xinxin , Ma Yiming , Liu Zhan
Published: May 2024

A novel hybrid‐multiplexed fifteen‐switch converter (HM‐15SC) topology, which can simultaneously output a set of three‐phase AC and three sets of DC, is proposed to address the problems of a single type of power electronic converter and the complexity of coordinated control of AC/DC hybrid systems for smart grid. In this paper, we conduct a detailed analysis of the topology and operating principles of HM‐15SC. This includes an examination of the converter's effective switching states in relation to output voltage, current paths, and maximum voltage stress. In addition, a modulation strategy combining single‐leg independent model prediction current control (SL‐MPCC) and time‐sharing cooperative (TSC) ideas is proposed to establish a single‐leg AC current prediction model, which effectively reduces the prediction arithmetic under the premise of realizing three‐leg independent prediction control and optimal control of AC/DC hybrid outputs. Finally, we verify the feasibility and superiority of the proposed HM‐15SC topology and its modulation strategy using the Typhoon HIL 402 platform.
The Photodynamic Antibacterial Activity Properties of a Series of Indium(III) Porphyrins and their Gold and Silver Nanoparticle Conjugates
Authors: Soy Rodah C. , Mafukidze Donovan , Mack John , Nyokong Tebello
Published: May 2024

In(III) tetraarylporphyrin complexes with 4‐thiomethylphenyl (1‐InPor), thien‐3‐yl (2‐InPor), thien‐2‐yl (3‐InPor) and 5‐bromothien‐2‐yl (4‐InPor) meso‐aryl rings have been synthesized and characterized. The complexes have been conjugated to gold and silver nanoparticles (AuNPs and AgNPs). The photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT) activities of 1–4‐InPor and their AuNP and AgNP conjugates have been investigated against both planktonic bacteria and biofilms of Gram‐(+) S. aureus and Gram‐(−) E. coli. 2.5 μg.mL−1 solutions of 1–4‐InPor exhibited favorable PACT activities against planktonic S. aureus with high Log10 reduction values in the 4.28–7.69 range upon 75 min photoirradiation with a Thorlabs M625L3 LED (240 mW.cm−2) mounted onto the illumination chamber of a Modulight 7710 medical laser system to provide a dose at the well‐plate of 86 mJ.cm−2.min−1. In contrast, low values in the 1.4–1.9 range were obtained against E. coli with 10 μg.mL−1 solutions. 1–4‐InPor exhibited relatively low PACT activity against the biofilm cells of S. aureus and E. coli. Conjugation of 1–4‐InPor to AgNPs and AuNPs significantly enhanced the PACT activities. This is demonstrated by the complete eradication of planktonic S. aureus at shorter irradiation times with high Log10 values>7.69 and moderate Log10 values>2 against planktonic E. coli for the meso‐thienylporphyrin conjugates.
Stepwise Construction of Multimetallic Complexes Supported by Heteroditopic NHC/MIC Ligands
Authors: Fonseca‐Olvera Josué G. , Ruiz‐Mendoza Francisco J. , Flores‐Ávila Amador , Meléndez‐Rodríguez Myriam , Suárez‐Castillo Oscar R. , Mendoza‐Espinosa Daniel
Published: May 2024

We report the stepwise synthesis of a novel series of heterometallic gold(I)/palladium(II) complexes supported by heteroditopic imidazol‐2‐ylidene/triazol‐5‐ylidene ligands. All new compounds were characterized by means of 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, melting points, and elemental analyses. The versatility of the ligand platforms, additionally allows for the preparation of cationic chelate biscarbenic palladium(II) complexes through full deprotonation of the mixed azolium precursors. Characterization studies were completed by the determination of the molecular structures of some synthetic intermediates. The new biscarbenic palladium(II) complexes were tested as catalysts in the cross‐coupling of boronic acid to a variety of chloroarenes and the hydrosilylation of terminal alkynes. Both catalytic processes provide good to excellent yields under low catalyst loadings.
Victim empowerment and satisfaction: The potential of imagery rescripting
Authors: Twardawski Mathias , Gollwitzer Mario , Altenmüller Marlene S. , Bertsch Katja , Lobbestael Jill , Philippi Antonia L. E. , Wittekind Charlotte E.
Published: May 2024

Imagery rescripting (ImRs) is a prominent approach to help individuals alleviate the negative consequences following victimization. In two studies (total N = 641), participants experienced a victimization incident induced by a video. In subsequent audio‐guided (ImRs or control) interventions, we examined the impact of imagined (i) victims' active or passive role, (ii) punishment for the offender (yes/no), and (iii) offender moral change (yes/no) on both psychological states and behavioural intentions. Specifically, after the ImRs, participants reported their feelings of empowerment, justice‐related satisfaction, positive and negative affect, and intention to act after the intervention. Results revealed that ImRs significantly reduced negative consequences of victimization, with active ImRs surpassing passive ImRs in enhancing victims’ empowerment and positive affect. Notably, neither imagined offender punishment nor moral change affected the efficacy of ImRs. We discuss these findings in light of ImRs as an intervention to address victims’ threatened needs.
Didymoplexiella siamensis (Gastrodieae, Orchidaceae), a new generic record for the flora of India
Authors: Khanal Madhusudhan , Sarkar Shuvadip , Dutta Rohit , Rai Santosh Kumar , Kumar Devendra , Rawat Sandeep , Agrawala Dinesh Kumar
Published: May 2024

Didymoplexiella, a holomycotrophic terrestrial orchid genus has been reported for the first time in India. In India, the genus is represented by D. siamensis, and has been reported from Sikkim. Detailed morphology, supplemented with illustrative photoplates, along with information on habitat and phenology has been provided. Conservation assessment of D. siamensis has been done following IUCN guidelines.
Effects of throughflow and internal heating in a composite air‐porous medium
Authors: Gangadgaraiah Yeliyur Honnappa
Published: May 2024

The effect of an internal heat source linearly dependent on the solid fraction on the onset of convection in a composite air‐porous channel with vertical throughflow has been analyzed. We considered boundaries to be insulating to temperature perturbations. The governing equation that satisfies the air‐porous configuration is analyzed by the normal mode approach, solved by the regular perturbation technique for linear stability, and the critical internal Darcy–Rayleigh number for the onset of stationary convection has been derived. The paper aims to analyze the effects of parameters like heat source size, depth ratio, Darcy number, throughflow direction, solid fraction, and Prandtl number on stationary convection in a composite air‐porous configuration. Understanding these influences can illuminate thermal behaviors in intricate systems and inform applications in heat transfer and fluid dynamics. The observed stability configuration decreases monotonically due to increasing the effect of the depth ratio and solid fraction at any direction and velocity of the throughflow. The thermal and vertical velocity profiles and the results obtained during the analysis have been presented graphically.
Low‐intensity continuous ultrasound effect on proliferation and morphology of fibroblast cells
Authors: Tran Vo Tu Minh , Guangorena Zarzosa Guillermo Ignacio , Nakajima Keita , Kobayashi Takaomi
Published: May 2024

Recently, the use of ultrasound (US) for triggering drug release to specific tissues was explored, but its direct effects on cells have not been thoroughly understood. For this reason, this study aimed to investigate the impact of US powers and US irradiation times on fibroblast cells (NIH‐3T3). The results showed that the diverse US settings had varying effects on cell proliferation and distribution in the polystyrene culture dish. Interestingly, at 10 W, 43 kHz with changing exposed time up to 30 min either stimulated or inhibited fibroblast cell growth after 24 and 72 h of cultivation compared to the control sample in the absence of US, while longer US exposure time led to a moderate reduction in cell quantity. Moreover, higher US levels of 20 and 30 W could cause an aggregation of cells and sublethal damage to the cells. Importantly, the morphology of fibroblast was changed from stellate‐shape to round‐shape under greater US powers. Elevated US power also influenced interactions between proteins and lipids, affecting the atomic and molecular charges, leading to changes in both zeta potential and pH of the dispensed cell solution.
Enhancing word signing in hearing students with reading disorders using computer‐based learning trials
Authors: Evans Sara , Skinner Christopher H. , Wolbers Kimberly , Mee Bell Sherry , Shahan Cheryl
Published: May 2024

Multiple‐baseline‐across‐word‐sets designs were used to determine whether a computer‐based intervention would enhance accurate word signing with four participants. Each participant was a hearing college student with reading disorders. Learning trials included 3 s to observe printed words on the screen and a video model performing the sign twice (i.e., simultaneous prompting), 3 s to make the sign, 3 s to observe the same clip, and 3 s to make the sign again. For each participant and word set, no words were accurately signed during baseline. After the intervention, all four participants increased their accurate word signing across all three word sets, providing 12 demonstrations of experimental control. For each participant, accurate word signing was maintained. Application of efficient, technology‐based, simultaneous prompting interventions for enhancing American Sign Language learning and future research designed to investigate causal mechanisms and optimize intervention effects are discussed.
An in vitro feasibility study of 355 nm laser atherectomy for the treatment of peripheral atherosclerotic lesions
Authors: Wang Hui , Zuo Hui , Pan Dikang , Cao Yihui , Zhang Yiqun , Liu Duan , Guo Lianrui , Guo Jianming
Published: May 2024

In this study, we utilized a novel 355 nm laser to ablate porcine aortas in the presence of physiological saline and contrast agent. Subsequently, we investigated the shape and depth of the resulting injuries. After ablating bovine tendons and aortas with the laser, we analyzed the size and quantity of particles postablation. Finally, we conducted ablation experiments using human ex vivo plaques. The analysis revealed minimal damage to porcine aortas within 2 s of exposure to the 355 nm laser. The degree of injury in the presence of contrast agent was higher than that in the presence of physiological saline but significantly lower than the damage caused by 308 nm laser. Regardless of whether it was bovine tendon or porcine aorta tissue, the proportion of particles <25 μm postlaser ablation exceeded 99%. Lastly, the 355 nm laser successfully opened three types of plaques: chronically occluded, stent restenosis, and stale thrombosis.