bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bobcat occupancy, tree islands, and invasive Burmese pythons in an Everglades conservation area
Authors: Buckman Katherine M. , D'Acunto Laura E. , Romañach Stephanie S. , Taylor Rachel M. , Dorn Nathan J.
Published: December 2023

Bobcats (Lynx rufus) are terrestrial mammals that also inhabit tree islands (i.e., topographically elevated patches of forested land) embedded in the subtropical Everglades wetlands, which serve as a dry refuge habitat during the wet season in this region of Florida, USA. The Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan seeks to restore Everglades water flow to pre‐drainage conditions, but little is known about how water levels or other landscape‐level factors may influence mammalian occurrence, such as bobcats, on the tree islands in this ecosystem. We used game camera records and occupancy modeling to test for effects of static habitat variables and dynamic hydrologic variables. We hypothesized that deep water levels would limit the accessibility of tree islands to bobcats; therefore, we predicted that bobcat occupancy would decline with higher water levels. We also tested for the effect of an expanding invasive snake (i.e., Burmese python [Python molarus bivittatus]) using output from a model constructed to predict density and spread of Burmese pythons across southern Florida. We hypothesized that increases in Burmese pythons on the landscape would influence the food resources of bobcats, resulting in reduced bobcat occupancy at higher predicted densities of pythons. We built detection histories using 1,855 bobcat images from game cameras set on 87 tree islands in an Everglades conservation area from 2005–2019. Bobcat occupancy was significantly diminished when predicted Burmese python densities exceeded approximately 3 Burmese pythons/km2. Bobcat occupancy probability also increased with tree‐island density around the focal tree island. Although water depth and hydroperiod surrounding tree islands appeared in our top 3 candidate models, the hydrologic variables had weak effects on bobcat occupancy. Our results suggest that while hydrologic dynamics may play a role, the invasive Burmese python has stronger influences on bobcat occupancy of tree islands in this Everglades conservation area.
Ultrafast Visible/Near‐Infrared Dual‐Band Selective Optical Switching via Polarization Control in Layered Low‐Symmetry TlSe
Authors: Suk Sang Ho , Nah Sanghee , Sajjad Muhammad , Seo Sung Bok , Song Jiacheng , Singh Nirpendra , Baik Hionsuck , Sim Sangwan
Published: December 2023

Dual‐band optical signals, consisting of visible and infrared wavelengths, hold significant potential in various fields such as night vision, vehicle safety, bioimaging, and optical communications. Consequently, considerable attention has focused on modulation techniques for visible‐infrared dual‐band signals, including various electrochromic devices. However, these devices often suffer from low speeds and complex structures, making them unsuitable for satisfying the current demand for ultrafast on‐chip nanophotonics. Here, an ultrafast, dual‐band selective optical switching is presented in thallium selenide (TlSe), a layered nanomaterial with low‐symmetry. Transient absorption microscopy directly reveals distinct modulation bands in the visible and near‐infrared (NIR) regions. Notably, these bands exhibit orthogonal polarization dependencies, enabling the selective modulation of visible and NIR light via polarization control. Theoretical analysis reveals that the modulation bands in the visible and NIR regions arise from the perpendicularly anisotropic excited‐state absorption of electrons and holes, respectively. This is supported by distinct ultrafast cooling times observed for electrons and holes. The modulations exhibit picosecond‐scale dynamics owing to efficient Auger recombination. These exceptional characteristics highlight the promising nature of low‐symmetry TlSe as a novel material for ultrafast dual‐band nanophotonics. Furthermore, this work provides fundamental insights into anisotropic carrier dynamics, including effective mass‐dependent cooling and many‐body interactions.
Broadband Spatial Self‐Phase Modulation in Black and Violet Phosphorus and Near‐Infrared All‐Optical Switching
Authors: Xu Xiaodan , Wang Meng , Zhang Yaqing , Li Qifan , Niu Wenshuo , Yang Yifan , Zhao Jimin , Wu Yanling
Published: December 2023

Black phosphorus (BP) has attracted great research interest in nonlinear optics due to its anisotropic photoelectronic properties. As an allotrope of phosphorus, violet phosphorus (VP) has higher stability and desirable wide bandgap than BP, broadening the potential applications of phosphorus in optoelectronics. Herein, the nonlinear optical responses of layered BP and VP over broad spectral range from 405 to 1064 nm are investigated by the spatial self‐phase modulation (SSPM) method. These results show that both BP and VP exhibit excellent broadband SSPM effects. They all have large nonlinear susceptibility value (up to ≈ 10−8 e.s.u.), except for a weaker value at the near‐infrared band. Moreover, the SSPM pattern formation time becomes significantly longer with increasing wavelength. Significantly, an all‐optical switching using a 532 nm beam to control a 1064 nm near‐infrared beam is realized based on the SSPM, which demonstrate that the nonlinear optical response of signal beam (1064 nm) can be improved by adjusting the intensity of controlling beam (532 nm). This study provides a fascinating foundation for future applications of phosphorus allotropes in broadband nonlinear photonics.
Luminescence‐Refrigeration Module: Addressing Luminescence Saturation Challenges in Laser‐Driven Lighting
Authors: Sun Peng , Hu Pan , Liu Yongfu , Luo Zhaohua , Wang Le , Zhu Qiangqiang , Shen Xuhui , Zhu Yujie , Jiang Jun
Published: December 2023

(Phosphor‐converted white laser diode (PC‐WLD) lighting shows promise for high‐luminance solid‐state illumination. However, luminescence saturation, stemming from optical and thermal factors and, hampers high‐power LD lighting progress. This study delves into the light‐thermal dynamics between lasers and Y3Al5O12:Ce3+ （YAG:Ce）transparent ceramic phosphors (TCPs). Over 48.9% of absorbed laser power generates heat, inducing luminescence saturation. To effectively handle heat dissipation, we introduce a Luminescence‐Refrigeration Module (LRM) comprising the YAG:0.005Ce3+ TCP and a thermoelectric cooler (TEC). The LRM raises laser power density saturation by 4.5 times, meeting high‐power laser lighting requirements. The designed LRM emerges as a groundbreaking strategy for advancing high‐power LD lighting devices.)
Rapid quantitative magnetization transfer imaging: Utilizing the hybrid state and the generalized Bloch model
Authors: Assländer Jakob , Gultekin Cem , Mao Andrew , Zhang Xiaoxia , Duchemin Quentin , Liu Kangning , Charlson Robert W. , Shepherd Timothy M. , Fernandez‐Granda Carlos , Flassbeck Sebastian
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To explore efficient encoding schemes for quantitative magnetization transfer (qMT) imaging with few constraints on model parameters.

Theory and Methods

We combine two recently proposed models in a Bloch‐McConnell equation: the dynamics of thefree spin poolare confined to the hybrid state, and the dynamics of thesemi‐solid spin poolare described by the generalized Bloch model. We numerically optimize the flip angles and durations of a train of radio frequency pulses to enhance the encoding of three qMT parameters while accounting for all eight parameters of the two‐pool model. We sparsely sample each time frame along this spin dynamics with a three‐dimensional radial koosh‐ball trajectory, reconstruct the data with subspace modeling, and fit the qMT model with a neural network for computational efficiency.

Results

We extracted qMT parameter maps of the whole brain with an effective resolution of 1.24 mm from a 12.6‐min scan. In lesions of multiple sclerosis subjects, we observe a decreased size of the semi‐solid spin pool and longer relaxation times, consistent with previous reports.

Conclusion

The encoding power of the hybrid state, combined with regularized image reconstruction, and the accuracy of the generalized Bloch model provide an excellent basis for efficient quantitative magnetization transfer imaging with few constraints on model parameters.
Improved error estimates of the time‐splitting methods for the long‐time dynamics of the Klein–Gordon–Dirac system with the small coupling constant
Authors: Li Jiyong
Published: December 2023

We provide improved uniform error estimates for the time‐splitting Fourier pseudo‐spectral (TSFP) methods applied to the Klein–Gordon–Dirac system (KGDS) with the small parameter . We first reformulate the KGDS into a coupled Schrödinger–Dirac system (CSDS) and then apply the second‐order Strang splitting method to CSDS with the spatial discretization provided by Fourier pseudo‐spectral method. Based on rigorous analysis, we establish improved uniform error bounds for the second‐order Strang splitting method at up to the long time at . In addition to the conventional analysis methods, we mainly apply the regularity compensation oscillation technique for the analysis of long time dynamic simulation. The numerical results show that our method and conclusion are not only suitable for one‐dimensional problem, but also can be directly extended to higher dimensional problem and highly oscillatory problem. As far as we know there has not been any relevant long time analysis and any improved uniform error bounds for the TSFP method solving the KGDS. Our methods are novel and provides a reference for analyzing the improved error bounds of other coupled systems similar to the KGDS.
Escherichia coli strains with precise domain deletions in the ribonuclease RNase E can achieve greatly enhanced levels of membrane protein production
Authors: Vasilopoulou Eleni , Chroumpi Tania , Skretas Georgios
Published: December 2023

Escherichia coli is one of the most widely utilized hosts for production of recombinant membrane proteins (MPs). Bacterial MP production, however, is usually accompanied by severe toxicity and low‐level volumetric accumulation. In previous work, we had discovered that co‐expression of RraA, an inhibitor of the RNA‐degrading activity of RNase E, can efficiently suppress the cytotoxicity associated with the MP overexpression process and, simultaneously, enhance significantly the cellular accumulation of membrane‐incorporated recombinant MPs in bacteria. Based on this, we constructed the specialized MP‐producing E. coli strain SuptoxR, which can achieve dramatically enhanced volumetric yields of well‐folded recombinant MPs. Ιn the present work, we have investigated whether domain deletions in the E. coli RNase E, which exhibit reduced ribonucleolytic activity, can result in suppressed MP‐induced toxicity and enhanced recombinant MP production, in a manner resembling the conditions of rraA overexpression in E. coli SuptoxR. We have found that some strains encoding specific RNase E truncation variants can achieve significantly enhanced levels of recombinant MP production. Among these, we have found a single RNase E variant strain, which can efficiently suppress MP‐induced toxicity and achieve greatly enhanced levels of recombinant MP production for proteins of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic origin. Based on its properties, and in analogy to the original SuptoxR strain, we have termed this strain SuptoxRNE22. E. coli SuptoxRNE22 can perform better than commercially available bacterial strains, which are frequently utilized for recombinant MP production. We anticipate that SuptoxRNE22 will become a widely utilized host for recombinant MP production in bacteria.
Comparison of ensemble‐based data assimilation methods for sparse oceanographic data
Authors: Beiser Florian , Holm Håvard Heitlo , Eidsvik Jo
Published: December 2023

Probabilistic forecasts in oceanographic applications, such as drift trajectory forecasts for search‐and‐rescue operations, face challenges due to high‐dimensional complex models and sparse spatial observations. We discuss localisation strategies for assimilating sparse point observations and compare the implicit equal‐weights particle filter and a localised version of the ensemble‐transform Kalman filter. First, we verify these methods thoroughly against the analytic Kalman filter solution for a linear advection diffusion model. We then use a nonlinear simplified ocean model to do state estimation and drift prediction. The methods are rigorously compared using a wide range of metrics and skill scores. Our findings indicate that both methods succeed in approximating the Kalman filter reference for linear models of moderate dimensions, even for small ensemble sizes. However, in high‐dimensional settings with a nonlinear model, we discover that the outcomes are significantly influenced by the dependence of the ensemble Kalman filter on relaxation and the particle filter's sensitivity to the chosen model error covariance structure. Upon proper relaxation and localisation parametrisation, the ensemble Kalman filter version outperforms the particle filter in our experiments.
First‐principles study on the effect of arsenic impurity on oxidation of pyrite surfaces
Authors: Fu Minsheng , Li Caiyun , Chen Linxiong , Xu Jiang , Chai Dong , Zhang Junjie , Li Yuqiong
Published: December 2023

Arsenic (As) frequently exists in pyrite (FeS2) in the form of impurities. The oxidation behavior of As in FeS2 is important in environmental science, mineral processing, and other related fields. The adsorption behaviors of H2O and O2 molecules on the As‐bearing pyrite (100) surface (AsFeS2(100)) are studied using the density functional theory (DFT). The results show that As prefers the S site on the pyrite (100) surface (FeS2(100)). In the absence of O2, an isolated H2O molecule does not dissociate when adsorbed at an iron (Fe) site and is repelled at an As site. Furthermore, the surface area around the As atoms exhibits a hydrophobic behavior. Adsorption energy analysis reveals that the presence of As atoms is unfavorable for the adsorption of H2O molecules on the pure FeS2 surface, and that the adsorption of H2O molecules on the AsFeS2(100) is physical adsorption. In the absence of H2O, it is suggested that the O2 molecule easily dissociates on both the pure FeS2(100) and AsFeS2(100). The adsorption of O2 on the As‐bearing surface is weaker than that on the pure FeS2(100). For the co‐adsorption of H2O and O2, the adsorption energy on the As‐bearing surface is more negative than that on the pure surface. This indicates that the presence of As promotes surface oxidation. Additionally, two OH and O (AsO or SO) or O (FeO) species are formed on the surface of pyrite when the H2O molecule is dissociated.
In Vivo mRNA CAR T Cell Engineering via Targeted Ionizable Lipid Nanoparticles with Extrahepatic Tropism
Authors: Billingsley Margaret M. , Gong Ningqiang , Mukalel Alvin J. , Thatte Ajay S. , El‐Mayta Rakan , Patel Savan K. , Metzloff Ann E. , Swingle Kelsey L. , Han Xuexiang , Xue Lulu , Hamilton Alex G. , Safford Hannah C. , Alameh Mohamad‐Gabriel , Papp Tyler E. , Parhiz Hamideh , Weissman Drew , Mitchell Michael J.
Published: December 2023

With six therapies approved by the Food and Drug Association, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have reshaped cancer immunotherapy. However, these therapies rely on ex vivo viral transduction to induce permanent CAR expression in T cells, which contributes to high production costs and long‐term side effects. Thus, this work aims to develop an in vivo CAR T cell engineering platform to streamline production while using mRNA to induce transient, tunable CAR expression. Specifically, an ionizable lipid nanoparticle (LNP) is utilized as these platforms have demonstrated clinical success in nucleic acid delivery. Though LNPs often accumulate in the liver, the LNP platform used here achieves extrahepatic transfection with enhanced delivery to the spleen, and it is further modified via antibody conjugation (Ab‐LNPs) to target pan‐T cell markers. The in vivo evaluation of these Ab‐LNPs confirms that targeting is necessary for potent T cell transfection. When using these Ab‐LNPs for the delivery of CAR mRNA, antibody and dose‐dependent CAR expression and cytokine release are observed along with B cell depletion of up to 90%. In all, this work conjugates antibodies to LNPs with extrahepatic tropism, evaluates pan‐T cell markers, and develops Ab‐LNPs capable of generating functional CAR T cells in vivo.
Heterogeneous Catalysis in Production and Utilization of Formic Acid for Renewable Energy
Authors: Wen Hao , Liu Yanyan , Liu Shuling , Peng Zhikun , Wu Xianli , Yuan Huiyu , Jiang Jianchun , Li Baojun
Published: December 2023

As the cleanest energy source, hydrogen has been followed with interest by researchers around the world. However, due to the internal low density of hydrogen, it cannot be stored and used efficiently which limits the hydrogen application on a huge scale. Chemical hydrogen storage is considered as a useful method for efficient handling and storage. Due to its excellent safety, formic acid stands out. It is worth noting that the matter and energy conversion is established based on formic acid, which is not referred to in the previous documentation. In this review, the latest development of research on heterogeneous catalysis via production and application of formic acid for energy application is reported. The matter and energy conversion based on formic acid are both discussed systematically. More importantly, with formic acid as the node, biomass energy shows potential to be in a dominant position in the energy conversion process. In addition, the catalytic mechanism is also mentioned. This review can provide the current state in this field and the new inspirations for developing superior catalytic systems.
SOx Functionalized NiOOH Nanosheets Embedded in Ni(OH)2 Microarray for High‐Efficiency Seawater Oxidation
Authors: Haq Tanveer ul , Arooj Mahreen , Tahir Aleena , Haik Yousef
Published: December 2023

A nano‐micro heterostructure has been established to address the challenges of selectivity, stress, pitting corrosion, and long‐term durability of anodes in unpurified seawater. The heterostructure comprised NiOOH nanosheets embedded within a high surface area Ni(OH)2 microarray, and the surface structure is further functionalized with sulfate (SOx). This cation‐selective protective layer impedes chloride (Cl−) diffusion and abstracts H from reaction intermediates, leading to enhanced selectivity and corrosion resistance of the anode. The multilevel porosity within the randomly oriented nanosheets and the underlying support provide short diffusion channels for ions and mass migration, ensuring efficient ion transport and long‐term structural and mechanical durability of the active sites, even at high current density. Remarkably, the catalyst requires a small input voltage of 400 mV to deliver a current density of 1 A cm−2 and maintains it for over 168 h without noticeable degradation or hypochlorite formation. Spectroscopic analysis and density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the Ni electronic structure in the +3 valence state, its strong structural interaction with the underlying microarray, and the functionality of SOx significantly reduce the required potential for O–O coupling.
Co‐Adjusting d‐Band Center of Fe to Accelerate Proton Coupling for Efficient Oxygen Electrocatalysis
Authors: Zhang Pengxiang , Liu Shuling , Zhou Jingjing , Zhou Limin , Li Baojun , Li Shuqi , Wu Xianli , Chen Yu , Li Xin , Sheng Xia , Liu Yanyan , Jiang Jianchun
Published: December 2023

The problem in d‐band center modulation of transition metal‐based catalysts for the rate‐determining steps of oxygen conversion is an obstacle to boost the electrocatalytic activity by accelerating proton coupling. Herein, the Co doping to FeP is adopted to modify the d‐band center of Fe. Optimized Fe sites accelerate the proton coupling of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on N‐doped wood‐derived carbon through promoting water dissociation. In situ generated Fe sites optimize the adsorption of oxygen‐related intermediates of oxygen evolution reaction (OER) on CoFeP NPs. Superior catalytic activity toward ORR (half‐wave potential of 0.88 V) and OER (overpotential of 300 mV at 10 mA cm−2) express an unprecedented level in carbon‐based transition metal‐phosphide catalysts. The liquid zinc–air battery presents an outstanding cycling stability of 800 h (2400 cycles). This research offers a newfangled perception on designing highly efficient carbon‐based bifunctional catalysts for ORR and OER.
Exceptionally Bifunctional ORR/OER Performance via Synergistic Atom–Cluster Interaction
Authors: Chen Guanyu , Liu Yihao , Xue Shuyan , Zhang Ruixuan , Lv Hualiang , Zhang Jincang , Wu Limin , Che Renchao
Published: December 2023

The single‐atom sites (SAs) have achieved enhanced performance toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) with the effective utilization of the active sites. However, the excess adsorption of the intermediates and the limited stability hinders performance improvement. Metal clusters with promising stability and weak adsorption can be used as potential substitutions, but the lack of active sites is considered undesirable for catalytic reactions. Herein, a framework of Fe nanoclusters combined with SAs on One dimensional (1D) carbon nanotubes (Fe3C‐NCNTs 90 min CC−1) is synthesized to confirm the synergistic atom–cluster interaction. The composite exhibits strong polarization and electron redistribution between nanocluster and SAs. The electron redistribution will significantly boost the electron transport and the desorption of the intermediates, which is confirmed by off‐axis holography and DFT calculation. The electrocatalytic performance is significantly enhanced as the half‐wave potential of ORR increased 75 mV and the potential of OER increased 133 mV compared with the sample without nanoclusters. Furthermore, such a bifunctional catalyst endows homemade Zn‐air batteries (ZABs) with high power density and long‐term stability. This work paves a facile route to design bifunctional ORR/OER electrocatalysts consisting of 0D composite structures.
High‐Performance Self‐Powered Quantum Dot Infrared Photodetector with Azide Ion Solution Treated Electron Transport Layer
Authors: Choi Young Kyun , Kim Tae Hyuk , Jung Byung Ku , Park Taesung , Lee Yong Min , Oh Seongkeun , Choi Hyung Jin , Park Junhyeok , Bae Sang‐In , Lee YunKi , Shim Jae Won , Park Hye Yeon , Oh Soong Ju
Published: December 2023

The demand for self‐powered photodetectors (PDs) capable of NIR detection without external power is growing with the advancement of NIR technologies such as LIDAR and object recognition. Lead sulfide quantum dot‐based photodetectors (PbS QPDs) excel in NIR detection; however, their self‐powered operation is hindered by carrier traps induced by surface defects and unfavorable band alignment in the zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO NP) electron‐transport layer (ETL). In this study, an effective azide‐ion (N3−) treatment is introduced on a ZnO NP ETL to reduce the number of traps and improve the band alignment in a PbS QPD. The ZnO NP ETL treated with azide ions exhibited notable improvements in carrier lifetime and mobility as well as an enhanced internal electric field within the thin‐film heterojunction of the ZnO NPs and PbS QDs. The azide‐ion‐treated PbS QPD demonstrated a increase in short‐circuit current density upon NIR illumination, marking a responsivity of 0.45 A W−1, specific detectivity of 4 × 1011 Jones at 950 nm, response time of 8.2 µs, and linear dynamic range of 112 dB.
Mechanical and Acoustic‐Driven BiFeO3 Composite Films‐Based Hybrid Nanogenerator for Energy Harvesting and Sensing Applications
Authors: Graham Sontyana Adonijah , Manchi Punnarao , Paranjape Mandar Vasant , Yu Jae Su
Published: December 2023

Nanogenerators for acoustic energy harvesting are still in the early stage of development, and many challenges such as the optimization of device structure and the design of efficient and sensitive materials need to be addressed. To solve the above‐mentioned problems, herein, advancement in synthesized multiferroic material for hybridizing the nanogenerator and efficient harvesting of various energies such as acoustic, mechanical, and vibrational energies is reported. Initially, bismuth ferrate (BiFeO3, BFO)‐based composite films are prepared with high ferroelectric and dielectric coefficients. The hybrid nanogenerator (HNG) based on a 3D‐printed structure has the highest electrical output which is further improved depending on the BFO loading concentration in the composite film. The 0.5 wt% BFO‐loaded PVDF‐based HNG offers the enhanced open circuit voltage, short circuit current, and charge density values of ≈30 V, ≈1 µA, and ≈10 µC/m2, respectively. The optimized HNG is employed to harvest mechanical energy from everyday human life. Furthermore, the HNG layers are used in the fabrication of a multi‐energy harvester/sensor (MEH/S) which can harvest/sense various vibrational and acoustic energies under different acoustic frequencies and amplitudes, respectively. The harvested energy from the MEH/S is tested to power portable electronics.
Advances in Mn‐Based MOFs and Their Derivatives for High‐Performance Supercapacitor
Authors: Cheng Honghong , Li Jianping , Meng Tao , Shu Dong
Published: December 2023

As the most widely used metal material in supercapacitors, manganese (Mn)‐based materials possess the merits of high theoretical capacitance, stable structure as well as environmental friendliness. However, due to poor conductivity and easy accumulation, the practical capacitance of Mn‐based materials is far lower than that of theoretical value. Therefore, accurate structural adjustment and controllable strategies are urgently needed to optimize the electrochemical properties of Mn‐based materials. Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are porous materials with high specific surface area (SSA), tunable pore size, and controllable structure. These features make them attractive as precursors or scaffold for the synthesis of metal‐based materials and composites, which are important for electrochemical energy storage applications. Therefore, a timely and comprehensive review on the classification, design, preparation and application of Mn‐based MOFs and their derivatives for supercapacitors has been given in this paper. The recent advancement of Mn‐based MOFs and their derivatives applied in supercapacitor electrodes are particularly highlighted. Finally, the challenges faced by Mn‐MOFs and their derivatives for supercapacitors are summarized, and strategies to further improve their performance are proposed. The aspiration is that this review will serve as a beneficial compass, guiding the logical creation of Mn‐based MOFs and their derivatives in the future.
Supermolecule Polymer Derived Porous Carbon Nitride Microspheres with Controllable Energy Band Structure for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Xie Zhengzheng , Gao Qiang , Hussain Sajjad , Yang Jianjun , Li Qiuye
Published: December 2023

Porous graphitic carbon nitride microsphere with large specific surface area and controllable energy band structure is synthesized via a simple method with the supermolecule polymer of melamine‐cyanuric acid (MCA) as the intermediates. The energy band structure and morphology of carbon nitride are closely correlative to the calcination time. And the CN‐20 catalyst fabricated by calcination for 20 h exhibit superior photocatalytic activity of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) under visible‐light (λ ≥ 420 nm) irradiation. The photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical test results indicate that Pt is the optimum cocatalyst candidate compared with Pd, Ru, and Ag. Meanwhile, the time‐dependent process of the intermediate pyrolysis to carbon nitride and the internal mechanism of photogenerated charge transfer between semiconductors and cocatalyst is investigated and supplemented by theoretical calculations. This work provides a novel and energy band structure controllable manufacture strategy for porous carbon nitride semiconductor with satisfying visible‐light photocatalytic reduction performance.
A Thermal‐Ball‐Valve Structure Separator for Highly Safe Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Luo Mengning , Zhang Xueqian , Wang Sen , Ye Jiajia , Zhao Ya , Yang Ziqiang , Cui Shishuang , Hou Zhiguo , Yang Bin
Published: December 2023

The separator located between the positive and negative electrodes not only provides a lithium‐ion transmission channel but also prevents short circuits for direct contact of electrodes. The inferior dimension thermostability of commercial polyolefin separators intensifies the thermal runaway of batteries under abuse such as short circuits, overcharge, and so on. a polyvinylidene fluoride/polyether imide (PVDF/PEI) separator with high thermal stability in which the high thermostable PEI microspheres are evenly dispersed in the PVDF film matrix and also located in the micro holes of the PVDF film is developed. They not only function as strong skeleton that enables the rare shrink of the separator at 200 °C avoiding short circuit but also act as ball valve that blocks the lithium ion transmission channel at 150 °C interrupting the further heat aggregation. Thus, the LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2/Li batteries exhibit high cycle stability of 96.5% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 0.2C and 80°C. Further, the LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2/graphite pouch cells are constructed and deliver good safety performance without smoke release and catching fire after the nail penetration test.
Understanding the Super‐Theoretical Capacity Behavior of VO2 in Aqueous Zn Batteries
Authors: Deng Wenjun , Li Chang , Zou Wenxia , Xu Yushuang , Chen Yan , Li Rui
Published: December 2023

VO2 material, as a promising intercalation host, is widely investigated not only in aqueous lithium‐ion batteries, but also in aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) owing to its stable tunnel‐like framework and multivalence of vanadium. Different from lithium‐ion storage, VO2 can provide higher capacity when storing zinc ions, even exceeding its theoretical capacity (323 mAh g−1), but the specific reason for this unconventional performance in AZIBs is still unclear. The present study proposes a catalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) coupled with an interface oxidation mechanism of VO2 during the initial charging to a high voltage. This coupling induces a phase transformation of VO2 into a high oxidation state of V5O12∙6H2O, enabling a nearly two‐electron reaction and providing additional zinc storage sites to achieve super‐theoretical capacity. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that these vanadium oxide cathodes (V2O3, VO2, and V2O5) will all undergo phase change after the first charge or short cycle. Notably, water molecules participate in the final formation of layered vanadium‐based hydrate, highlighting their crucial role as “pillars” for stabilizing the structure. This work significantly enhances the understanding of vanadium‐based oxide cathodes.
Aqueous Rechargeable Zn–Iodine Batteries: Issues, Strategies and Perspectives
Authors: Han Mingming , Chen Daru , Lu Qiongqiong , Fang Guozhao
Published: December 2023

The static aqueous rechargeable Zn–Iodine batteries (ARZiBs) have been studied extensively because of their low‐cost, high‐safety, moderate voltage output, and other unique merits. Nonetheless, the poor electrical conductivity and thermodynamic instability of the iodine cathode, the complicated conversion mechanism, and the severe interfacial reactions at the Zn anode side induce their low operability and unsatisfactory cycling stability. This review first clarifies the typical configuration of ARZiBs with a focus on the energy storage mechanism and uncovers the issues of the ARZiBs from a fundamental point of view. After that, it categorizes the recent optimization strategies into cathode fabrication, electrolyte modulation, and separator/anode modification; and summarizes and highlights the achieved progress of these strategies in advanced ARZiBs. Given that the ARZiBs are still at an early stage, the future research outlook is provided, which hopefully may guide the rational design of advanced ARZiBs.
Imaging Structural and Electrical Changes of Aging Cells Using Scanning Ion Conductance Microscopy
Authors: Song Yao , Zhang Shuting , Cao Chen , Yan Jia , Li Mei , Li Xinyu , Chen Feng , Gu Ning
Published: December 2023

The local charge density and distribution of extracellular membranes play a crucial role in the various cellular processes, such as regulation and localization of membrane proteins, electrophysiological signal transduction, transcriptional control, cell growth, and cell death. In this study, a novel scanning ion conductance microscopy‐based method is employed to extracellular membrane mapping. This method allows to not only visualize the dynamic topography and surface charge distribution around individual cells, but also distinguish the charge difference. To validate the accuracy and effectiveness of this method, the charge density on model sample surfaces are initially manipulated and the charge sensing mechanism using finite element modeling (FEM) is explored subsequently. By applying this method, both the extracellular charge distributions and topography structures of normal and senescent human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) are able to monitor. Interestingly, it is observed that the surface charge became significantly more negative after cellular senescence. This innovative approach enables us to gain valuable insights into surface charge changes during cellular senescence, which can contribute to a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies for age‐related diseases.
On weak (measure valued)–strong uniqueness for Navier–Stokes–Fourier system with Dirichlet boundary condition
Authors: Chaudhuri Nilasis
Published: December 2023

In this article, our goal is to define a measure valued solution of compressible Navier–Stokes–Fourier system for a heat conducting fluid with Dirichlet boundary condition for temperature in a bounded domain. The definition will be based on the weak formulation of entropy inequality and ballistic energy inequality. Moreover, we obtain the weak (measure valued)–strong uniqueness property of this solution with the help of relative energy.
Application and evaluation of classic and demand oriented cooling strategies in context of machine tools
Authors: Wenkler Eric , Steiert Christoph , Ihlenfeldt Steffen , Weber Jürgen
Published: December 2023

Energy consumption is an important factor in the operation of machine tools. Recent studies showed that in average, $${1}/{5}$$

1
/
5

of the machine tools total energy demand is caused by internal cooling systems. The continually rising performance of machine tools, together with the importance of thermal stability, reasons the requirement for demand oriented cooling approaches, which could significantly reduce the energy consumption for internal machine cooling. This study applied classic and demand oriented cooling strategies on a machine tool frame, which is one of the most complex machine tool components from a thermal point of view. The demand oriented cooling is based on volume flow control and can either be configured close to the environmental temperature or close to the thermal steady state, which can be obtained by loss forecast in combination with an FE model or measurement. The impact of the strategies on the thermal reaction as well as the energy consumption is compared, showing a significant reduction of energy demand without significant impairment of the thermal stability.
Chronic kidney disease is related to impaired left ventricular strain as assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Dettori Rosalia , Milzi Andrea , Lubberich Richard Karl , Burgmaier Kathrin , Reith Sebastian , Marx Nikolaus , Frick Michael , Burgmaier Mathias
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an important cardiovascular risk factor. However, the relationship between CKD and myocardial strain as a parameter of myocardial function is still incompletely understood, particularly in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM). Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) feature tracking allows to analyze myocardial strain with high reproducibility. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between CKD and myocardial strain as described by CMR in patients with ICM.

Methods

We retrospectively performed CMR-based myocardial strain analysis in 89 patients with ICM and different stages of CKD, classified according to the KDIGO stages. In all patients, global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS) and global radial strain (GRS) analysis of left ventricular myocardium were performed. Furthermore, segmental longitudinal (SLS), circumferential (SCS) and radial strain (SRS) according to the AHA 16/17-segment model was determined.

Results

Creatinine levels (GLS: r = 0.46, p < 0.001; GCS: r = 0.34, p = 0.001; GRS: r = − 0.4, p < 0.001), urea levels (GLS: r = 0.34, p = 0.001; GCS: r = 0.30, p = 0.005; GRS: r = − 0.31, p = 0.003) as well as estimated glomerular filtration rate (GLS: r = -0.40, p < 0.001; GCS: r = − 0.27, p = 0.012; GRS r = 0.34, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with global strains as determined by CMR. To further investigate the relationship between CKD and myocardial dysfunction, segmental strain analysis was performed: SLS was progressively impaired with increasing severity of CKD (KDIGO-1: − 11.93 ± 0.34; KDIGO-5: − 7.99 ± 0.38; p < 0.001 for KDIGO-5 vs. KDIGO-1; similar data for SCS and SRS). Interestingly, myocardial strain was impaired with CKD in both segments with and without scarring. Furthermore, in a multivariable analysis, eGFR was independently associated with GLS following adjustment for LV-EF, scar burden, diabetes, hypertension, age, gender, LV mass or LV mass index.

Conclusion

CKD is related to impaired LV strain as assessed by CMR in patients with ICM. In our cohort, this relationship is independent of LV-EF, the extent of myocardial scarring, diabetes, hypertension, age, gender, LV mass or LV mass index.
Objective structured assessment of medical students’ technical skills in second-degree perineal laceration repair with sponge model-based training
Authors: Olmes Gregor Leonhard , Doerk Merle , Solomayer Erich-Franz , Nigdelis Meletios P. , Sima Romina-Marina , Hamoud Bashar Haj
Published: December 2023

Purpose

In this cohort study, we used a sponge simulator to train students in second-degree perineal laceration repair. We examined whether the training course improved the students’ skills, as measured with an objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS) and by a senior physician. We also examined the correlation between these ratings to assess the validity of OSATS application in this context.

Methods

Between April and July 2022, 40 medical students took part in gynecological/obstetrics training that included a lecture about perineal trauma and the viewing of a video that demonstrated second-degree perineal laceration repair using a sponge model. They then underwent initial evaluation by a senior physician and OSATS application, yielding two independent scores. After training with the sponge model, a second evaluation was performed. The OSATS assessed practical skills (8 items) and suture results (2 items). The senior physician assigned ratings on a five-point ordinal scale ranging from 1 (excellent) to 5 (poor).

Results

Training with the sponge simulator significantly increased students’ OSATS (practical skills, p < 0.001; suture results, p < 0.05) and senior physician (p < 0.001) ratings. The OSATS and senior physician ratings correlated strongly (Spearman’s r: first assessment, – 0.72; second assessment, – 0.74; p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The sponge-based training improves students’ skills for the repair of a second-degree perineal laceration. The OSATS for the sponge model might be a valid option to examine medical students in an obstetrical course.
A randomized double-blind trial to measure the absorption characteristics of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid rich oil blend with natural lipid-based delivery system
Authors: Chuang Jennifer , Briskey David , Dang Jennifer , Rajgopal Arun , Rao Amanda
Published: December 2023

A randomized, double-blinded trial with 65 subjects was conducted to compare the pharmacokinetics between PhytoMarineCelle (PM) that consists of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid (EPA + DHA) plus a self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS), and a standard EPA + DHA ethyl ester (SEE) that does not contain SEDDS. PM showed 1.6-fold greater plasma area under the curve (AUC) than SEE at 300 mg, although no significant difference was observed. PM showed a 3.1 and 3.2-fold (p < 0.05) greater plasma AUC than SEE at 500 mg and 1000 mg respectively. The concentration max (Cmax) of EPA + DHA did not change between PM and SEE at 300 mg. Cmax of PM was twofold greater than SEE at 500 mg and 1000 mg respectively. The Cmax of EPA + DHA achieved significant difference (p < 0.05) only with the 500 mg dose. The PM formulation increased the bioavailability of EPA + DHA by threefold compared to SEE at 500 and 1000 mg.
Usefulness of time-resolved MR angiography in spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF)—a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wójtowicz Katarzyna , Przepiorka Lukasz , Maj Edyta , Kujawski Sławomir , Marchel Andrzej , Kunert Przemysław
Published: December 2023

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVFs) constitute the most common type of spinal vascular malformations. Their diagnosis requires spinal digital subtraction angiography (DSA), which is time-consuming, requires catheterizing many vessels, and exposes patient to a high radiation and contrast doses. This study aims to evaluate the usefulness of time-resolved MR angiography (TR–MRA) in SDAVF diagnosis. We performed a systematic review of the PubMed and EMBASE databases followed by a meta-analysis. TR–MRA was an index test, and spinal DSA was a reference. Of the initial 324 records, we included 4 studies describing 71 patients with SDAVFs. In 42 cases, TR–MRA was true positive, and in 21 cases, it was true negative. We found 7 false-positive cases and 1 false negative. TR–MRA allowed for shunt level identification in 39 cases. Of these, the predicted level was correct in 23 cases (59%), to within 1 level in 38 cases (97.4%) and to within 2 levels in 39 cases (100%). The diagnostic odds ratio was 72.73 (95% CI [10.30; 513.35]), z = 4.30, p value < 0.0001. The pooled sensitivity was 0.98 (95% CI [0.64; 1.00]), and the pooled specificity was 0.79 (95% CI [0.10; 0.99]). The AUC of the SROC curve was 0.9. TR–MRA may serve as a preliminary study to detect SDAVFs and localize the shunt level with sensitivity and specificity as high as 98% and 79%, respectively. Unless the TR–MRA result is unequivocal, it should be followed by a limited spinal DSA.
Die gute fachliche Praxis in der Waldbewirtschaftung – Regulierungsbedarf im novellierten Bundeswaldgesetz unter besonderer Berücksichtigung von Klima- und Biodiversitätsschutzerfordernissen
Authors: Stubenrauch Jessica
Published: December 2023

Der Aufbau biodiverser, naturnaher und mithin größtmöglich resilienter Wälder
in Deutschland ist für die erfolgreiche Bewältigung der Klima- und Biodiversitätskrise unabdingbar.
Das BWaldG ist diesen Herausforderungen de lege lata nicht gewachsen und wird aktuell reformiert. Der vorliegende
Beitrag widmet sich der Frage nach der Regulierung der guten forstlichen Praxis und leitet diesbezüglich
verbindliche Einzelkomponenten einschließlich ökologischer Mindestanforderungen für private
Waldbesitzer und Wälder in öffentlicher Hand ab. Die rechtliche Analyse bezieht bereits etablierte
Standards der klimaangepassten und biodiversitätsfördernden Waldbewirtschaftung ein und bewertet
diese – auch in Abgrenzung zu möglichen Fördertatbeständen – im Hinblick auf
übertragbare Elemente. Damit soll ein Diskussionsbeitrag für politische Entscheidungsprozesse
geschaffen und zur Schließung der Gesetzeslücke bezüglich vollzugsfähiger Regeln zur
guten forstlichen Praxis beigetragen werden.
Removal of organic compounds in wastewater using cocoa shell‑based activated carbon–SiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: León Adan Y. , Contreras-Arenas José D. , Garnica-Fuentes Cristian F. , Jiménez-Caballero Michell A. , Pinto-Hernández Diego F. , Ariza-León Emiliano , Peña-Ballesteros Darío Y. , Molina-Velasco Daniel R.
Published: December 2023

This work aimed to use low-cost residual cocoa shell biomass for the preparation of activated carbon with different amounts of SiO2 nanoparticles using the coprecipitation method. The use of residual plant biomass seeks to strengthen the challenges of the bioeconomy in the generation of value-added products for the agro-industry. Subsequently, the adsorption capacity of phenol and 3,4-dimethoxybenzyl alcohol as representative species of persistent organic pollutants was quantified. The chemical activation of the carbon was carried out at 480 °C during 30 min with a 1.5 phosphoric acid (H3PO4) impregnation ratio. The activated carbons were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), showing the presence of functional groups associated with substances such as phenols, carboxylic acids, aromatic rings, and SiO2. Also, activated carbons were structurally characterized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), finding that the granules had structured surfaces but with irregular size and disordered channels, which facilitates the impregnation of SiO2 nanoparticles onto the activated carbon surface. The adsorption study of the organic compounds was carried out using UV–Vis spectroscopy. The adsorption isotherms, which were adjusted to the Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin models, were determined with correlation coefficients of 0.9835, 0.9885 and 0.987. On the other hand, the adsorbent materials achieved removal percentages around 97.9% and 97.8% for phenol and 3,4-dimethoxybenzyl alcohol, respectively. The results showed that activated carbons with SiO2 nanoparticles increased the specific surface area by up to 20%. Therefore, this property allows a greater interaction of contaminants at the time of adsorption.

Graphical abstract
Nonunion Supervisors’ Humility at Work and Union Intolerance: An Exploratory Study Centered on One Hypothesis
Authors: Mellor Steven , Elliott Ross
Published: December 2023

Viewing supervisors’ humility at work as experiential from a self-awareness perspective, we formulated a central hypothesis that more humility would be related to less union intolerance in the work environment. Based on a broad sample of nonunion supervisors (N = 101) surveyed at neutral sites away from work, support was found for the relationship. To explore supervisors’ experience as indicated by their demographics as moderators, our data suggested that the relationship was stronger for supervisors at lower levels of supervision and for supervisors with at least one parent who was a union member. Results were discussed in relation to future studies to verify and extend this first-ever hypothesis, in which supervisors’ humility experienced at work is linked to unions and union employees.