bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RAPID DISASTER ANALYSIS BASED ON SAR TECHNIQUES
Authors: Yang C. H. , Soergel U.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Due to all-day and all-weather capability spaceborne SAR is a valuable means for rapid mapping during and after disaster. In this paper, three change detection techniques based on SAR data are discussed: (1) initial coarse change detection, (2) flooded area detection, and (3) linear-feature change detection. The 2011 Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami is used as case study, where earthquake and tsunami events provide a complex case for this study. In (1), pre- and post-event TerraSAR-X images are coregistered accurately to produce a false-color image. Such image provides a quick and rough overview of potential changes, which is useful for initial decision making and identifies areas worthwhile to be analysed further in more depth. In (2), the post-event TerraSAR-X image is used to extract the flooded area by morphological approaches. In (3), we are interested in detecting changes of linear shape as indicator for modified man-made objects. Morphological approaches, e.g. thresholding, simply extract pixel-based changes in the difference image. However, in this manner many irrelevant changes are highlighted, too (e.g., farming activity, speckle). In this study, Curvelet filtering is applied in the difference image not only to suppress false alarms but also to enhance the change signals of linear-feature form (e.g. buildings) in settlements. Afterwards, thresholding is conducted to extract linear-shaped changed areas. These three techniques mentioned above are designed to be simple and applicable in timely disaster analysis. They are all validated by comparing with the change map produced by Center for Satellite Based Crisis Information, DLR.
Het postcontractuele non-concurrentiebeding in de franchiseovereenkomst: een update
Authors: Kolenbrander J.H.
Published: March 2015

Het postcontractuele non-concurrentiebeding in de franchiseovereenkomst: een update

In ‘Het postcontractuele non-concurrentiebeding in de franchiseovereenkomst: Een update’ wordt door Jan-Willem Kolenbrander ingegaan op recente jurisprudentie terzake van het postcontractuele non-concurrentiebeding in de franchiseovereenkomst. Het artikel vormt hiermee een aanvulling op een eerder artikel van Kolenbrander in het tijdschrift ‘Contracteren’. De uitspraken worden thematisch behandeld en hopen de lezer een zo compleet mogelijk beeld te geven van de rechtspraak op dat gebied.
Extraordinary accuracy in floret position of Helianthus annuus
Authors: Okabe Takuya
Published: March 2015

Divergence angles were measured for inﬂorescences of Helianthus annuus with several hundreds to more than a thousand disk ﬂowers. Quantitative analysis showed that the angles are robustly ﬁxed in the vicinity of the ideal golden angle 137.508° as accurately as ~0.001°. The mean deviation from the ideal value varies for each sample. The results have important implications for phyllotaxis models, which are discussed by referring to a necessary modiﬁcation proposed by Roberts.
Are They Guilty Because of Their Gender?
Authors: Shtarkshall Ronny , Kontula Osmo , Lottes Ilsa S. , Aavik Toivo , Baras Mario
Published: March 2015

This paper explores whether sexual acts of varying degrees of misconduct/violence are judged differently depending on the gender of the actor and the subject. It presents pooled data from four countries regarding the actors and subjects involved in a range of sexual activities. In addition, the paper investigates whether the gender of the observer (study participant) influenced the assessment. Our sample consisted of 3416 students from the United States, Israel, Finland, and Estonia. The research instrument contained 8 sexual scenarios where the gender labels of the actors and subjects were manipulated. In several highly revealing cases, it was found that female actors were assessed more benignly compared to male ones. Men were never assessed more benignly. Our research finding is in line with public records showing that women are less frequently perceived and reported as sexual perpetrators. As a consequence, men may find it more difficult to complain of sexual misconduct against them, and sexual misconduct by women against men may have remained uncounted and disregarded in many cases.
Denial of Child Maltreatment Histories among Male Adolescent Offenders
Authors: YalÄ±m AslÄ± Cennet , Sezgin A. Ufuk
Published: March 2015

This paper aims to explore relationship between childhood maltreatment histories and denial of male adolescent offenders who are imprisoned for violent criminal behaviors. The study group consists of 235 male adolescents between the ages of 15 and 18 in İstanbul Bayrampaşa H Type Prison affiliated to the Ministry of Justice. According to the results, one hundred and thirty-seven children have child abuse and neglect (CAN) histories and there is no significant relationship between violent criminal behavior and being exposed to CAN. However, responses of adolescents indicate that they tend to deny CAN histories when being asked direct questions regarding violence compared to indirect questions. Additionally, the results of Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ)’s Minimization/Denial subscale show that 71% of the study group has sufficient scores for possible underreporting of maltreatment. This study can provide guidance to clinicians, who are going to conduct a study on adolescents with maltreatment histories, regarding possible tendency of denial.
Synthesis and Characterization of Nanocomposite Hydroxy-Sodalite/Ceramic Membrane via Pore-Plugging Hydrothermal Synthesis Technique
Authors: Daramola M.O. , Dinat A. , Hasrod S.
Published: March 2015

In this article, synthesis and characterization of nanocomposite hydroxy sodalite (H-SOD)/α-alumina membrane via the so-called “pore-plugging” hydrothermal synthesis (PPH) protocol is reported for the first time. In nanocomposite architecture membranes, zeolite crystals are embedded within the pores of the supports instead of forming thin-film layers of the zeolite crystals on the surface of the supports. The as-prepared membranes were characterized with SEM and FTIR for morphology and purity of the H-SOD crystals. Compared to the conventional in-situ direct hydrothermal synthesis, membranes obtained from PPH possess higher mechanical and thermal stability. In addition, defect control with nanocomposite architecture membrane is possible because the zeolite crystals are embedded within the support pores of the membrane, thereby limiting the maximum defect size to the pore sizes of support. The nanocomposite architecture nature of the membranes safeguards the membrane from shocks or abrasion that could promote defects/inter-crystalline pores formation. These advantages could be helpful in the scale-up process of the preparation procedure of membranes at the commercial level with less-demanding conditions.
A Novel Approach to Synthesize Helix Wave Hollow Fiber Membranes for Separation Applications
Authors: Park Sung Ryul , Kim Jeonghoon , Ali Aamer , Macedonio Francesca , Drioli Enrico
Published: March 2015

Helix wave hollow fiber membranes are promising candidate to mitigate fouling and polarization effects in membrane operations. Current study describes a novel but simple approach to synthesize hollow fiber membranes with helix wave configuration. Poly(ether sulfone) (PES) based helix-waved hollow fiber membranes have been fabricated by dry-wet phase inversion process by using asymmetric coagulation conditions. Frequencies of the wave cycle have been observed approximately 20 and the wave length 7.1-7.6mm under the specifically required operating conditions defined by dope solution extrudate rate of 1g/min through 4cm of air-gap heights with 8.6m/min of winding speeds. On the other hand, simple hollow fibers are formed when the elongation force exerted by the winder is much higher than the surface tension of the external coagulant. The process can be useful for making polymer fibers for other applications as well.
The unfolded protein response sensor PERK mediates mechanical stress‐induced maturation of focal adhesion complexes in glioblastoma cells
Authors: Khoonkari Mohammad , Liang Dong , Kamperman Marleen , van Rijn Patrick , Kruyt Frank A. E.
Published: August 2024

Stiffening of the brain extracellular matrix (ECM) in glioblastoma promotes tumor progression. Previously, we discovered that protein kinase R (PKR)‐like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) plays a role in glioblastoma stem cell (GSC) adaptation to matrix stiffness through PERK/FLNA‐dependent F‐actin remodeling. Here, we examined the involvement of PERK in detecting stiffness changes via focal adhesion complex (FAC) formation. Compared to control GSCs, PERK‐deficient GSCs show decreased vinculin and tensin expression, while talin and integrin‐β1 remain constant. Furthermore, vimentin was also reduced while tubulin increased, and a stiffness‐dependent increase of the differentiation marker GFAP expression was absent in PERK‐deficient GSCs. In conclusion, our study reveals a novel role for PERK in FAC formation during matrix stiffening, which is likely linked to its regulation of F‐actin remodeling.
The structural complexity of pyomelanin impacts UV shielding in Pseudomonas species with different lifestyles
Authors: Diaz Appella Mateo N. , Kolender Adriana , Oppezzo Oscar J. , López Nancy I. , Tribelli Paula M.
Published: August 2024

Pyomelanin, a polymeric pigment in Pseudomonas, arises mainly from alterations in tyrosine degradation. The chemical structure of pyomelanin remains elusive due to its heterogeneous nature. Here, we report strain‐specific differences in pyomelanin structural features across Pseudomonas using PAO1 and PA14 reference strains carrying mutations in hmgA (a gene involved in pyomelanin synthesis), a melanogenic P. aeruginosa clinical isolate (PAM), and a melanogenic P. extremaustralis (PexM). UV spectra showed dual peaks for PAO1 and PA14 mutants and single peaks for PAM and PexM. FTIR phenol : alcohol ratio changes and complex NMR spectra indicated non‐linear polymers. UVC radiation survival increased with pyomelanin addition, correlating with pigment absorption attenuation. P. extremaustralis UVC survival varied with melanin source, with PAO1 pyomelanin being the most protective. These findings delineate structure‐based pyomelanin subgroups, having distinct physiological effects.
Crystal structure and enzyme engineering of the broad substrate spectrum l‐amino acid oxidase 4 from the fungus Hebeloma cylindrosporum
Authors: Koopmeiners Simon , Gilzer Dominic , Widmann Christiane , Berelsmann Nils , Sproß Jens , Niemann Hartmut H. , Fischer von Mollard Gabriele
Published: August 2024

l‐Amino acid oxidases (LAAOs) catalyze the oxidative deamination of l‐amino acids to α‐keto acids. Recombinant production of LAAOs with broad substrate spectrum remains a formidable challenge. We previously achieved this for the highly active and thermostable LAAO4 of Hebeloma cylindrosporum (HcLAAO4). Here, we crystallized a proteolytically truncated surface entropy reduction variant of HcLAAO4 and solved its structure in substrate‐free form and in complex with diverse substrates. The ability to support the aliphatic portion of a substrate's side chain by an overall hydrophobic active site is responsible for the broad substrate spectrum of HcLAAO4, including l‐amino acids with big aromatic, acidic and basic side chains. Based on the structural findings, we generated an E288H variant with increased activity toward pharmaceutical building blocks of high interest.
Water‐Lean Inner Helmholtz Plane Enabled by Tetrahydropyran for Highly Reversible Zinc Metal Anode
Authors: Fu Kai , Liu Tingting , Xie Meilan , Wu Yurou , Li Zhendong , Xin Yuxuan , Liao Yaqi , Liu Cailing , Huang Hongbo , Ma Dui , Zeng Fanyan , Liang Xiao
Published: August 2024

The reversibility and stability of zinc (Zn) metal anode are closely related to inner Helmholtz plane (IHP) chemistry. The H2O‐rich IHP raises severe parasitic reactions and irregular Zn deposition, impeding the practical utility of Zn anode in aqueous Zn‐ion batteries (AZIBs). In this study, tetrahydropyran (THP), a five‐carbon heterocyclic ether with permanent dipole moment and hydrophobic characteristic, is introduced as a self‐adsorptive additive to reshape the IHP. It squeezes out partial H2O molecules and forms a H2O‐lean IHP, benefitting for alleviating active H2O decomposition and improving the stability of Zn anode. Moreover, the adsorbed THP induces the preferential nucleation of Zn (002) plane, facilitating dendrite‐free growth and improving the reversibility of Zn anode. Consequently, the Zn||Zn symmetric cell enables to cycle over 3600 h at 5 mA cm−2@ 1 mAh cm−2. The Zn||Cu half‐cell can stably cycle over 400 cycles with 99.9% coulombic efficiency even under harsh test conditions (10 mA cm−2@5 mAh cm−2) with 30 µm Zn foil. The Zn||NH4V4O10 full cell maintains 92.6% capacity retention after 800 cycles at 1 A g−1 and the Zn||I2 full cell enables to perform steadily over 10000 cycles with a capacity decay rate of merely 0.003% per cycle at 5 C.
Flexible Ultrahigh‐Resolution Quantum‐Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Lin Lihua , Dong Zhihua , Wang Jie , Hu Hailong , Chen Weiguo , Guo Tailiang , Li Fushan
Published: August 2024

In the rapidly evolving Metaverse, enhancing user immersion through clear, lifelike, and ergonomic near‐eye displays is crucial. However, existing rigid near‐eye displays encounter challenges such as insufficient resolution, limited adaptability, and suboptimal visual experiences. To address these issues, a strategic shift is proposed to flexible ultrahigh‐resolution (FUR) displays, which combine ultrahigh resolution with the ability to conform to individual eye curvature for a more realistic field of view. FUR quantum dot light‐emitting diodes (FUR‐QLEDs) featuring 9072 pixels per inch (PPI), a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 15.7%, and peak brightness of 15 163 cd m−2 are achieved through the integration of nanoimprinting and surface modification technologies. The degradation mechanism of FUR‐QLEDs under bending fatigue tests is investigated, identifying the high elastic modulus of the insulating patterned film as the primary cause through theoretical analysis, simulation, and experimental characterizations. Optimizing the elastic modulus of the patterned film enabled to maintain 91% of its initial brightness after 400 bending cycles, demonstrating exceptional bending stability and durability of FUR‐QLEDs.
Ultratough and Highly Conductive Supramolecular Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Eutectogels via a Sequentially Enhanced Strategy
Authors: Du Shuo , Chen Xingduo , Li Miaomiao , Peng Bolun , Lyu Quanqian , Zhang Lianbin , Zhu Jintao
Published: August 2024

Eutectogels, composed of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) and polymeric networks, are promising as pivotal components in flexible energy storage, soft robotics, wearable electronic devices, etc. However, an inherent trade‐off between ionic conductivity and mechanical properties, which stems from the antagonism between the DES and polymeric networks, restricts the advancement of eutectogels. Herein, a sequentially enhanced strategy via freeze‐casting, solvent exchanges, and wet annealing to construct supramolecular poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) eutectogels with ultratough mechanical properties and high ionic conductivity is proposed. The trade‐off is reconciled by building aligned through‐pores to facilitate efficient ion transport and by further rationally regulating the aggregation structures of PVA chains to reinforce the supporting networks. Consequently, the resulting supramolecular PVA eutectogels demonstrate state‐of‐the‐art mechanical‐conductive comprehensive performances among existing eutectogels with an elongation of 3281%, a toughness of 196 MJ m−3, a fatigue threshold of 1100 J m−2, and ionic conductivity of 5.2 mS cm−1. These appealing characteristics are highly desirable for advanced soft conductors. This study will provide insights into designing next‐generation high‐performance supramolecular materials for flexible electronics is believed.
Constructing a Fluoride‐Ion Tunnel‐Structured Interface to Stabilize the Zn Metal Chemistry at 50 °C
Authors: Yang Yihan , Qu Guangmeng , Wei Zhiquan , Hu Tao , Hu Yichan , Wei Zijian , Mo Funian , Li Hongfei , Liang Guojin
Published: August 2024

High‐temperature aqueous zinc batteries have recently garnered significant attention for large‐scale energy storage. However, spontaneous hydrogen evolution and passivation on the Zn metal anode severely affect its cycling stability under elevated temperature conditions. Herein, a facile strategy is employed to construct a bifunctional composite protective layer comprising an insulating ZnF2 layer combined with Zn affinity conductive tin (Sn) metal. This combination optimally distributes Zn ions (Zn2+) and maintains consistent thermal field distribution around Zn anodes. Moreover, the presence of fluorides on the interface efficiently suppresses the hydrogen evolution reaction, while the Sn metal serves as nucleation seeds with reversible alloying and dealloying process to endow dendrite‐free morphology and fast reaction kinetics. Specifically, the symmetric cell with the coated electrode exhibits excellent stability at a current density of 3 mA cm−2 over 420 h at 50 °C. When coupled with the modified Zn anode and I2 cathode, the Zn//I2 full cells deliver high areal capacity and substantiate their practical application, exhibiting remarkable high‐temperature resilience over 2000 cycles with 97.8% capacity retained at 50 °C.
Engineering a Microfluidic Platform to Cryopreserve Stem Cells: A DMSO‐Free Sustainable Approach
Authors: Modaresi Saman , Pacelli Settimio , Chakraborty Aishik , Coyle Ali , Luo Wei , Singh Irtisha , Paul Arghya
Published: August 2024

Human adipose‐derived stem cells (hASCs) are cryopreserved traditionally using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as the cryoprotectant agent. DMSO penetrates cell membranes and prevents cellular damage during cryopreservation. However, DMSO is not inert to cells, inducing cytotoxic effects by causing mitochondrial dysfunction, reduced cell proliferation, and impaired hASCs transplantation. Additionally, large‐scale production of DMSO and contamination can adversely impact the environment. A sustainable, green alternative to DMSO is trehalose, a natural disaccharide cryoprotectant agent that does not pose any risk of cytotoxicity. However, the cellular permeability of trehalose is less compared to DMSO. Here, a microfluidic chip is developed for the intracellular delivery of trehalose in hASCs. The chip is designed for mechanoporation, which creates transient pores in cell membranes by mechanical deformation. Mechanoporation allows the sparingly permeable trehalose to be internalized within the cell cytosol. The amount of trehalose delivered intracellularly is quantified and optimized based on cellular compatibility and functionality. Furthermore, whole‐transcriptome sequencing confirms that less than 1% of all target genes display at least a twofold change in expression when cells are passed through the chip compared to untreated cells. Overall, the results confirm the feasibility and effectiveness of using this microfluidic chip for DMSO‐free cryopreservation of hASCs.
Engineering Microgel Packing to Tailor the Physical and Biological Properties of Gelatin Methacryloyl Granular Hydrogel Scaffolds
Authors: Jaberi Arian , Kedzierski Alexander , Kheirabadi Sina , Tagay Yerbol , Ataie Zaman , Zavari Saman , Naghashnejad Mohammad , Waldron Olivia , Adhikari Daksh , Lester Gerald , Gallagher Colin , Borhan Ali , Ravnic Dino , Tabdanov Erdem , Sheikhi Amir
Published: August 2024

Granular hydrogel scaffolds (GHS) are fabricated via placing hydrogel microparticles (HMP) in close contact (packing), followed by physical and/or chemical interparticle bond formation. Gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) GHS have recently emerged as a promising platform for biomedical applications; however, little is known about how the packing of building blocks, physically crosslinked soft GelMA HMP, affects the physical (pore microarchitecture and mechanical/rheological properties) and biological (in vitro and in vivo) attributes of GHS. Here, the GHS pore microarchitecture is engineered via the external (centrifugal) force‐induced packing and deformation of GelMA HMP to regulate GHS mechanical and rheological properties, as well as biological responses in vitro and in vivo. Increasing the magnitude and duration of centrifugal force increases the HMP deformation/packing, decreases GHS void fraction and median pore diameter, and increases GHS compressive and storage moduli. MDA‐MB‐231 human triple negative breast adenocarcinoma cells spread and flatten on the GelMA HMP surface in loosely packed GHS, whereas they adopt an elongated morphology in highly packed GHS as a result of spatial confinement. Via culturing untreated or blebbistatin‐treated cells in GHS, the effect of non‐muscle myosin II‐driven contractility on cell morphology is shown. In vivo subcutaneous implantation in mice confirms a significantly higher endothelial, fibroblast, and macrophage cell infiltration within the GHS with a lower packing density, which is in accordance with the in vitro cell migration outcome. These results indicate that the packing state of GelMA GHS may enable the engineering of cell response in vitro and tissue response in vivo. This research is a fundamental step forward in standardizing and engineering GelMA GHS microarchitecture for tissue engineering and regeneration.
Characterization of Microscopic Structures in Living Tumor by In Vivo Measurement of Magnetic Relaxation Time Distribution of Intratumor Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Ota Satoshi , Kosaka Hiroki , Honda Keita , Hoshino Kota , Goto Haruki , Futagawa Masato , Takemura Yasushi , Shimizu Kosuke
Published: August 2024

Tumor microscopic structure is crucial for determining properties such as cancer type, disease state (key for early diagnosis), and novel therapeutic strategies. Magnetic particle imaging is an early cancer diagnostic tool using magnetic nanoparticles as a tracer, which actualizes cancer theranostics in combination with hyperthermia treatment using the abilities of magnetic nanoparticles as a heat source. This study focuses on the microscopic structures associated with cancer cell distribution, the stromal compartment, and vascularization in different kinds of living tumors by analyzing the intratumor magnetic relaxation response of magnetic nanoparticles injected into the tumors. Furthermore, this study describes a sequential system for the measurement of magnetic relaxation time and analysis of the intratumor structure using nonbiological samples such as viscous fluids and solidified magnetic nanoparticles. Particularly, the fine discriminability achieved by reconstructing a distribution map representing the relationship between magnetic relaxation time and viscosity of medium is demonstrated, based on experimental data with a limited condition number. Observing tumor microscopic structure through the dynamic magnetization response of intratumor magnetic nanoparticles is a low‐invasive tool for analyzing tumor tissue without dissection. It holds promise for the advancement of biomedical applications, such as early cancer theranostics, using magnetic nanoparticles.
Flexible Terahertz Metasurface Absorbers Empowered by Bound States in the Continuum
Authors: Xu Guizhen , Xue Zhanqiang , Fan Junxing , Lu Dan , Xing Hongyang , Shum Perry Ping , Zhou Ye , Cong Longqing
Published: August 2024

Terahertz absorbers are crucial to the cutting‐edge techniques in the next‐generation wireless communications, imaging, sensing, and radar stealth, as they fundamentally determine the performance of detectors and cloaking capabilities. It has long been a pressing task to find absorbers with customizable performance that can adapt to various environments with low cost and great flexibility. Here, perfect absorption empowered by bound states in the continuum (BICs) is demonstrated, allowing for the tailoring of absorption coefficient, bandwidth, and field of view. The one‐port absorbers are interpreted using temporal coupled‐mode theory highlighting the dominant role of BICs in the far‐field radiation properties. Through a thorough investigation of BICs from the perspective of lattice symmetry, the radiation features of three BIC modes are unraveled using both multipolar and topological analysis. The versatile radiation capabilities of BICs provide ample freedom to meet specific requirements of absorbers, including tunable bandwidth, stable performance in a large field of view, and multiband absorption using a thin and flexible film without extreme geometric demands. These findings offer a systematic approach to developing optoelectronic devices and demonstrate the significant potential of BICs for optical and photonic applications, which will stimulate further studies on terahertz photonics and metasurfaces.
Sensitive SWIR Organic Photodetectors with Spectral Response Reaching 1.5 µm
Authors: Zhang Yi , Chen Jingwen , Yang Jie , Fu Muyi , Cao Yunhao , Dong Minghao , Yu Jiangkai , Dong Sheng , Yang Xiye , Shao Lin , Hu Zhengwei , Cai Houji , Liu Chunchen , Huang Fei
Published: August 2024

The performance of organic photodetectors (OPDs) sensitive to the short‐wavelength infrared (SWIR) light lags behind commercial indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) photodetectors primarily due to the scarcity of organic semiconductors with efficient photoelectric responses exceeding 1.3 µm. Limited by the Energy‐gap law, ultralow‐bandgap organic semiconductors usually suffer from severe non‐radiative transitions, resulting in low external quantum efficiency (EQE). Herein, a difluoro‐substituted quinoid terminal group (QC‐2F) with exceptionally strong electron‐negativity is developed for constructing a new non‐fullerene acceptor (NFA), Y‐QC4F with an ultralow bandgap of 0.83 eV. This subtle structural modification significantly enhances intermolecular packing order and density, enabling an absorption onset up to 1.5 µm while suppressing non‐radiation recombination in Y‐QC4F films. SWIR OPDs based on Y‐QC4F achieve an impressive detectivity (D*) over 1011 Jones from 0.4 to 1.5 µm under 0 V bias, with a maximum of 1.68 × 1012 Jones at 1.16 µm. Furthermore, the resulting OPDs demonstrate competitive performance with commercial photodetectors for high‐quality SWIR imaging even under 1.4 µm irradiation.
Strategically Modulating Proton Activity and Electric Double Layer Adsorption for Innovative All‐Vanadium Aqueous Mn2+/Proton Hybrid Batteries
Authors: Li Ming , Li Cong , Zuo Chunli , Hu Jisong , Li Chen , Luo Wen , Luo Sha , Duan An , Wang Junjun , Wang Xuanpeng , Sun Wei , Mai Liqiang
Published: August 2024

Aqueous Mn‐ion batteries (MIBs) exhibit a promising development potential due to their cost‐effectiveness, high safety, and potential for high energy density. However, the development of MIBs is hindered by the lack of electrode materials capable of storing Mn2+ ions due to acidic manganese salt electrolytes and large ion radius. Herein, the tunnel‐type structure of monoclinic VO2 nanorods to effectively store Mn2+ ions via a reversible (de)insertion chemistry for the first time is reported. Utilizing exhaustive in situ/ex situ multi‐scale characterization techniques and theoretical calculations, the co‐insertion process of Mn2+/proton is revealed, elucidating the capacity decay mechanism wherein high proton activity leads to irreversible dissolution loss of vanadium species. Further, the Grotthuss transfer mechanism of protons is broken via a hydrogen bond reconstruction strategy while achieving the modulation of the electric double‐layer structure, which effectively suppresses the electrode interface proton activity. Consequently, the VO2 demonstrates excellent electrochemical performance at both ambient temperatures and −20 °C, especially maintaining a high capacity of 162 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1 after a record‐breaking 20 000 cycles. Notably, the all‐vanadium symmetric pouch cells are successfully assembled for the first time based on the “rocking‐chair” Mn2+/proton hybrid mechanism, demonstrating the practical application potential.
Asymmetric Microenvironment Tailoring Strategies of Atomically Dispersed Dual‐Site Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction and CO2 Reduction Reactions
Authors: Huang Shiqing , Lin Fanmiao , Wang Shitao , Zeng Xiaofei , Ling Hao , Hu Xiayi , Shen Zhigang , Cao Dapeng
Published: August 2024

Dual‐atom catalysts (DACs) with atomically dispersed dual‐sites, as an extension of single‐atom catalysts (SACs), have recently become a new hot topic in heterogeneous catalysis due to their maximized atom efficiency and dual‐site diverse synergy, because the synergistic diversity of dual‐sites achieved by asymmetric microenvironment tailoring can efficiently boost the catalytic activity by optimizing the electronic structure of DACs. Here, this work first summarizes the frequently‐used experimental synthesis and characterization methods of DACs. Then, four synergistic catalytic mechanisms (cascade mechanism, assistance mechanism, co‐adsorption mechanism and bifunction mechanism) and four key modulating methods (active site asymmetric strategy, transverse/axial‐modification engineering, distance engineering and strain engineering) are elaborated comprehensively. The emphasis is placed on the effects of asymmetric microenvironment of DACs on oxygen/carbon dioxide reduction reaction. Finally, some perspectives and outlooks are also addressed. In short, the review summarizes a useful asymmetric microenvironment tailoring strategy to speed up synthesis of high‐performance electrocatalysts for different reactions.
Inorganic‐Derived 0D Perovskite Induced Surface Lattice Arrangement for Efficient and Stable All‐Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Heo Jin Hyuck , Park Jin Kyoung , Lee Hyong Joon , Shin Eun Ha , Hong Seok Yeong , Hong Ki‐Ha , Zhang Fei , Im Sang Hyuk
Published: August 2024

The inverted inorganic CsPbI3 perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are prospective candidates for next‐generation photovoltaics owing to inherent robust thermal/photo‐stability and compatibility for tandems. However, the performance and stability of the inverted CsPbI3 PSCs fall behind the n‐i‐p counterparts due to poor energetic alignment and abundant interfacial defect states. Here, an inorganic 0D Cs4PbBr6 with a good lattice strain arrangement is implemented as the surface anchoring capping layer on CsPbI3. The Cs4PbBr6 perovskite induces enhanced electron‐selective junction and thus facilitates efficient charge extraction and effectively inhibits non‐radiative recombination. Consequently, the CsPbI3 PSCs with Cs4PbBr6 demonstrate the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) of CsPbI3‐based inverted PSCs, reaching 21.03% PCE from a unit cell and 17.39% PCE from a module with a 64 cm2 aperture area. Furthermore, the resulting devices retain 92.48% after 1000 h under simultaneous 1‐sun and damp heat (85 °C / 85% relative humidity) environment.
Nanoengineering Scalephobic Surfaces for Liquid Cooling Enhancement
Authors: Schmid Julian , Armstrong Tobias , Denz Niklas , Heller Lars , Hegner Lukas , Schnoering Gabriel , Vidic Jovo , Schutzius Thomas M.
Published: August 2024

Crystallization fouling, a process where mineral scales form on surfaces, is of broad importance in nature and technology, negatively impacting water treatment and electricity production. However, a rational methodology for designing materials with intrinsic resistance to scaling and scale adhesion remains elusive. Here, guided by nucleation physics, this work investigates the effect of coating composition and surface structure on the nucleation and growth mechanism of scale on metallic heat transfer surfaces nanoengineered by large‐area techniques. This work observes that on hydrophilic nanostructured copper, despite its significantly enlarged surface area compared to smooth surfaces, scale formation is substantially suppressed leading to sustained, efficient cooling performance. This work reveals the mechanism through thermofluidic modeling coupled with in situ optical characterization and show that surface bubble formation through degassing is responsible for generating local hot spots enhancing supersaturation. This work then demonstrates a scalephobic nanostructured surface which reduces the accumulated surface scale mass 3.5× and maintains an 82% higher heat transfer coefficient compared to superhydrophobic surfaces with corresponding energy conversion savings. This work not only advances the understanding of fouling mechanisms but also holds promise for practical applications in industries reliant on efficient heat transfer processes.
Formate Salts: The Rediscovery of Their Radical Reaction under Light Irradiation Opens New Avenues in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Shen Qing , Cao Kun , Wen Xiaoqing , Li Jiahong
Published: August 2024

Formates are abundantly available and inexpensive commodity chemical, widely used in laboratory and industrial organic synthesis. Formates are promising hydrogen carrier and green C1 source, and have also been a subject of research as SET reductants in recent years. Compared to the toxic and flammable gas carbon monoxide, which also serves as a C1 source, formates are easier to handle, store, and transport, and are more environmentally friendly. Therefore, in recent studies of radical reactions, formate is not only as an ideal source of green carbonyl, which is of great significance to synthesize carboxyl compounds with various structures, but also as a SET reductant for editing organic molecules either in scientific research or industrial production. The activation and conversion of formate, as a source of C1 or a SET reductant, is a very challenging and hot research field in organic synthesis.
Predicting High‐Performance Thermoelectric Materials With StarryData2
Authors: Parse Nuttawat , Recatala‐Gomez Jose , Zhu Ruiming , Low Andre KY , Hippalgaonkar Kedar , Mato Tomoya , Katsura Yukari , Pinitsoontorn Supree
Published: August 2024

In recent years, machine learning (ML) has emerged as a potential tool in the exploration of thermoelectric (TE) materials. This study exploits the StarryData2 public database to construct an ML model for predicting the figure‐of‐merit ZT of TE materials. The original dataset from StarryData2 (372,480 datapoints) underwent systematic cleaning, resulting in a refined dataset of 18,126 instances with 2,761 unique compounds. The cleaned data is employed to train an XGBoost regressor model, utilizing chemical formulas of TE compounds as features to predict ZT at given temperatures. The XGBoost regressor exhibited high prediction accuracy, achieving the coefficient of determination (R2) scores of 0.815 and mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.103 for the test set, further evaluated through cross‐validation across 5 folds. The learning curve analysis demonstrated improved model performance with increased training data. Furthermore, the contributions of different chemical descriptors to ZT are analyzed based on feature importance analysis. Beyond conventional TE families in the training set, the trained model is applied to predict ZT for promising unexplored TE materials and estimate optimal doping concentrations. This comprehensive study shows the impact of ML on TE material research, offering valuable insights and accelerating the discovery of materials with enhanced TE properties.
Electronic Properties of Si and C Substitutional Defects and Porosity in C‐Rich and Si‐Rich Hydrogenated Roundish SiC Quantum Dots: An Ab‐Initio Study
Authors: Cuevas Figueroa José Luis , Thirumuruganandham Saravana Prakash , Mowbray Duncan John , Trejo Baños Alejandro , Serrano Orozco Fernando Adán , Jimenez Fabian , Ojeda‐Martínez Miguel
Published: August 2024

In this study, SiC quantum dots (SiC‐QD's) are studied, and some roundish SiC‐QD's with the incorporation of defects by removing a carbon or silicon atom are considered. Fourteen configurations are modeled in which the position of the silicon or carbon defect for each configuration is changed, considering that due to the chemical composition, it allows more Si atoms or more C atoms on the QD surface. All calculations are performed using the Density Functional Theory (DFT) methodology. The electronic exchange correlation is treated using the Generalized Gradient Approximation (GGA) with the Revised Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof (RPBE) functional. The electronic energy levels of each configuration are calculated as well as the partial density of states to know the origin of the energy gap in each quantum dot. The final step is to analyze the energy formation to determine chemical stability.
Decoding Air‐Exposure Degradation Chemistry and Improving Strategy for Layered Sodium Transition Metal Oxide Cathodes
Authors: Li Feng , Tang Wei , Wu Junlin , Zhang Lanshuang , Mu Anthony , Chen Zheng
Published: August 2024

Developing suitable cathodes of sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) with robust electrochemical performance and industrial application potential is crucial for the commercialization of large‐scale stationary energy storage systems. Layered sodium transition metal oxides, NaxTmO2 (Tm representing transition metal), possessing considerable specific capacity, high operational potential, facile synthesis, cost‐effectiveness, and environmentally friendly characteristics, stand out as viable cathode materials. Nevertheless, the prevailing challenge of air‐induced degradation in most NaxTmO2 significantly increases costs associated with production, storage, and transportation, coupled with a rapid decay in reversible capacity. This inherent obstacle inevitably impedes the advancement and commercial viability of SIBs. To address this challenge, it is essential to decode the chemistry of degradation caused by air exposure and develop protective strategies accordingly. In this review, a comprehensive and in‐depth understanding of the fundamental mechanisms associated with air‐induced degradation is provided. Additionally, the current state‐of‐the‐art effective protective strategies are explored and discuss the corresponding sustainability and scalability features. This review concludes with an outlook on present and future research directions concerning air‐stable cathode materials, offering potential avenues for upcoming investigations in advancing alkali metal layered oxides.
The effectiveness of group music reminiscence therapy for people thriving with dementia: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Wong Alwin Ru Kiet , Ng Li Ting Eileen , Lee Ming Hao , Yeow James Lai Hock , Lim Yong Jia , Yap Kah Hui
Published: August 2024

Dementia is characterized by a progressive decline in cognition, behavioral and psychological symptoms (BPSD), and quality of life (QoL). The lack of curative therapies has led to a psychosocial discourse prioritizing QoL of people thriving with dementia (PTD). Group reminiscence therapy (RT) is a relatively inexpensive intervention, with music prompts being a preferred choice, owing to robust musical memory in the early disease stage. However, a synthesis of current evidence is needed to inform research and clinical use of group music RT in dementia care. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review on PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, APA PsycInfo, and APA PsycArticles to critically appraise published randomized controlled trials examining group music RT to improve cognition, BPSD, and QoL in PTD. Of 14,725 articles, two RCTs involving 102 PTD were included. All studies used prerecorded music for group music RT. All studies were deemed of good quality, adhering to intention‐to‐treat analysis and assessor blinding. Based on the American Academy of Neurology guidelines, we assigned a Level C recommendation for group music RT for cognition and Level B recommendations for BPSD and QoL (ineffective). In conclusion, group music RT may be useful for symptomatic management in PTD. However, heterogeneous study designs, disease severity, dementia subtype, and outcome measures are likely barriers to meaningful clinical translation. Therefore, the rating of recommendations only serves as a point of reference. Future avenues include live performances as prompts for group music RT.
The fascinating world of polymer crystal hydrates: An overview
Authors: Filonowich Dominick , Velankar Sachin , Keith John A.
Published: August 2024

Polymer crystal hydrates (PCHs) are crystalline solids that form between a polymer and water. To date, only four distinct PCHs have been discovered—one of polyoxacyclobutane (POCB) and water, and three different polymorphs of polyethyleneimine (PEI) and water. These PCHs were first reported decades ago and have fascinating structures and peculiar properties that make them potentially useful for a wide range of applications including refrigeration, proton conduction membranes, and desalination. This perspective revisits what is known about these compounds, categorizes their similarities and differences with other known compounds, and offers a perspective into future efforts to discover new PCHs to address technological needs for society.
Serum iron and transferrin saturation variation are circadian regulated and linked to the harmonic circadian oscillations of erythropoiesis and hepatic Tfrc expression in mice
Authors: Bennett Cavan , Pettikiriarachchi Anne , McLean Alistair R. D. , Harding Rebecca , Blewitt Marnie E. , Seillet Cyril , Pasricha Sant‐Rayn
Published: August 2024

Serum iron has long been thought to exhibit diurnal variation and is subsequently considered an unreliable biomarker of systemic iron status. Circadian regulation (endogenous ~24‐h periodic oscillation of a biologic function) governs many critical physiologic processes. It is unknown whether serum iron levels are regulated by circadian machinery; likewise, the circadian nature of key players of iron homeostasis is unstudied. Here we show that serum iron, transferrin saturation (TSAT), hepatic transferrin receptor (TFR1) gene (Tfrc) expression, and erythropoietic activity exhibit circadian rhythms. Daily oscillations of serum iron, TSAT, hepatic Tfrc expression, and erythropoietic activity are maintained in mice housed in constant darkness, where oscillation reflects an endogenous circadian period. Oscillations of serum iron, TSAT, hepatic Tfrc, and erythropoietic activity were ablated when circadian machinery was disrupted in Bmal1 knockout mice. Interestingly, we find that circadian oscillations of erythropoietic activity and hepatic Tfrc expression are maintained in opposing phase, likely allowing for optimized usage and storage of serum iron whilst maintaining adequate serum levels and TSAT. This study provides the first confirmatory evidence that serum iron is circadian regulated, discerns circadian rhythms of TSAT, a widely used clinical marker of iron status, and uncovers liver‐specific circadian regulation of TFR1, a major player in cellular iron uptake.
Exome sequencing reveals genetic heterogeneity in consanguineous Pakistani families with neurodevelopmental and neuromuscular disorders
Authors: Bibi Anisa , Ji Weizhen , Jeffries Lauren , Zerillo Cynthia , Konstantino Monica , Mis Emily K. , Khursheed Filza , Khokha Mustafa K. , Lakhani Saquib A. , Malik Sajid
Published: August 2024

There remains a crucial need to address inequalities in genomic research and include populations from low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC). Here we present eight consanguineous families from Pakistan, five with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) and three with neuromuscular disorders (NMDs). Affected individuals were clinically characterized, and genetic variants were identified through exome sequencing (ES), followed by family segregation analysis. Affected individuals in six out of eight families (75%) carried homozygous variants that met ACMG criteria for being pathogenic (in the genes ADGRG1, METTL23, SPG11) or likely pathogenic (in the genes GPAA1, MFN2, SGSH). The remaining two families had homozygous candidate variants in the genes (AP4M1 and FAM126A) associated with phenotypes consistent with their clinical presentations, but the variants did not meet the criteria for pathogenicity and were hence classified as variants of unknown significance. Notably, the variants in ADGRG1, AP4M1, FAM126A, and SGSH did not have prior reports in the literature, demonstrating the importance of including diverse populations in genomic studies. We provide clinical phenotyping along with analyses of ES data that support the utility of ES in making accurate molecular diagnoses in these patients, as well as in unearthing novel variants in known disease‐causing genes in underrepresented populations from LMIC.
The relationship between adult hippocampal neurogenesis and cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Geigenmüller Joris N. , Tari Atefe R. , Wisloff Ulrik , Walker Tara L.
Published: August 2024

Neurogenesis persists throughout adulthood in the hippocampus and contributes to specific cognitive functions. In Alzheimer's disease (AD), the hippocampus is affected by pathology and functional impairment early in the disease. Human AD patients have reduced adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) levels compared to age‐matched healthy controls. Similarly, rodent AD models show a decrease in AHN before the onset of the classical hallmarks of AD pathology. Conversely, enhancement of AHN can protect against AD pathology and ameliorate memory deficits in both rodents and humans. Therefore, impaired AHN may be a contributing factor of AD‐associated cognitive decline, rather than an effect of it. In this review we outline the regulation and function of AHN in healthy individuals, and highlight the relationship between AHN dysfunction and cognitive impairments in AD. The existence of AHN in humans and its relevance in AD patients will also be discussed, with an outlook toward future research directions.

Highlights

Adult hippocampal neurogenesis occurs in the brains of mammals including humans.

Adult hippocampal neurogenesis is reduced in Alzheimer's disease in humans and animal models.
Factors Affecting Resilience and Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias
Authors: Masurkar Arjun V. , Marsh Karyn , Morgan Brianna , Leitner Dominique , Wisniewski Thomas
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating, age‐associated neurodegenerative disorder and the most common cause of dementia. The clinical continuum of AD spans from preclinical disease to subjective cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia stages (mild, moderate, and severe). Neuropathologically, AD is defined by the accumulation of amyloid β (Aβ) into extracellular plaques in the brain parenchyma and in the cerebral vasculature, and by abnormally phosphorylated tau that accumulates intraneuronally forming neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Development of treatment approaches that prevent or even reduce the cognitive decline because of AD has been slow compared to other major causes of death. Recently, the United States Food and Drug Administration gave full approval to 2 different Aβ‐targeting monoclonal antibodies. However, this breakthrough disease modifying approach only applies to a limited subset of patients in the AD continuum and there are stringent eligibility criteria. Furthermore, these approaches do not prevent progression of disease, because other AD‐related pathologies, such as NFTs, are not directly targeted. A non‐mutually exclusive alternative is to address lifestyle interventions that can help reduce the risk of AD and AD‐related dementias (ADRD). It is estimated that addressing such modifiable risk factors could potentially delay up to 40% of AD/ADRD cases. In this review, we discuss some of the many modifiable risk factors that may be associated with prevention of AD/ADRD and/or increasing brain resilience, as well as other factors that may interact with these modifiable risk factors to influence AD/ADRD progression. [Color figure can be viewed at www.annalsofneurology.org] ANN NEUROL 2024;96:633–649