bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical approach to limiting skin contracture following protractor myectomy for essential blepharospasm
Authors: Clark Jeremy , Randolph John , Sokol Jason A. , Moore Nicholas A. , Lee Hui Bae H. , Nunery William R.
Published: January 2018

PurposeTo report our experience with protractor myectomy in patients with benign essential blepharospasm who did not respond to serial botulinum toxin injection, and to describe intra- and postoperative techniques that limited skin contracture while also providing excellent functional and cosmetic results.

MethodsThe medical records of patients with isolated, benign, essential blepharospasm who underwent protractor myectomy from 2005 to 2008 by a single surgeon were reviewed retrospectively. The technique entailed operating on a single eyelid during each procedure, using a complete en bloc resection of all orbicularis tissue, leaving all eyelid skin intact at the time of surgery, and placing the lid under stretch with Frost suture and applying a pressure dressing for 5-7 days.

ResultsData from 28 eyelids in 7 patients were included. Average follow-up was 21.5 months (range, 4-76 months). Of the 28 eyelids, 20 (71.4%) showed postoperative resolution of spasm, with no further need for botulinum toxin injections. In the 8 eyelids requiring further injections, the average time to injection after surgery was 194 days (range, 78-323 days), and the average number of injections was 12 (range, 2-23 injections). All but one eyelid had excellent cosmetic results, without signs of contracture; one eyelid developed postoperative skin contracture following premature removal of the Frost suture and pressure dressing because of concerns over increased intraocular pressure.

ConclusionsIn our patient cohort, this modified technique resulted in excellent cosmetic and functional results and limited postoperative skin contracture.
The best of the best: a review of select oculoplastic case series published in 2015
Authors: Temnogorod Jenny , Shinder Roman
Published: January 2018

This review summarizes three case series published in the field of oculoplastic surgery in the year 2015. The first article describes the use of hedgehog pathway inhibitors for medical therapy of advanced periocular basal cell carcinoma and basal cell nevus syndrome. The second describes the use of c-reactive protein as a marker for starting treatment with steroids in children with orbital cellulitis. The third article presents an endoscopic medial orbital fat decompression technique for treatment of proptosis in thyroid eye disease.
Proyectar desde el factor humano: el diálogo con el hombre de Javier Carvajal
Authors: Espinosa García-Valdecasas Ana
Published: January 2018

El artículo indaga sobre la figura de Javier Carvajal y su consideración de la voluntad activa del “otro” en los inicios del proceso creativo, ante su convicción de que la crisis de su tiempo es la crisis de un modelo abstracto de hombre que solicita del arquitecto un renacido humanismo. Las casas de Somosaguas se exponen como paradigma de su concepto antropológico. En ellas la respuesta requiere estructurar la pluralidad de dos formas de habitar en un conjunto con vocación de unidad. Sólo desde una actitud de diálogo es posible reconciliar soluciones opuestas. La casa es el espacio más próximo al hombre. El significado de una acción tan esencial como contener se impregna de dos polos constitutivos de la condición humana: la necesidad de introspección y en el extremo el existir en una época, con los otros, en el mundo. Para Carvajal la huella de la existencia deja su herida en el territorio configurando la historia, apoyo para la creación un futuro perpetuamente renovado.

This article explores the figure of Javier Carvajal and his consideration of the active willingness of “the other” at the beginning of the creative process, at his conviction that the crisis of his time is the crisis of a man’s abstract model who asks the architects for reborn humanism.

The houses of Somosaguas are exposed as a paradigm of his anthropological concept. In them, the answer requires to structure the plurality of two ways of living in a set with vocation of unity. It is only possible to reconcile opposite solutions through an attitude of dialogue.

The house is the closest space to the human being. The significance of such an essential action as to contain is impregnated by two constitutive poles of human nature: the need for insight, and on the other side the existence of an era, with the others, in the world.

For Carvajal, the footprint of the existence leaves its wound in the territory configuring history, support for creation of a perpetually renovated future.
Proyectar es investigar: mil razones para entender que proyectar en arquitectura es investigar
Authors: Campo Baeza Alberto
Published: January 2018

La práctica arquitectónica, lo que los arquitectos llamamos proyectar, desde la idea primera, pasando por el proyecto básico, después el proyecto de ejecución y finalmente la dirección de obras, todo ello es, debe serlo, un verdadero trabajo de investigación. Y del mismo modo, su transmisión, la enseñanza de proyectos, también es, debe serlo, una verdadera labor de investigación. Con este texto se intenta demostrar que proyectar en arquitectura es investigar. Porque, aunque a los que no son arquitectos les cueste entenderlo, proyectar es investigar. Todo proyecto de arquitectura es un verdadero trabajo de investigación, o debería serlo.

There are countless reasons that demonstrate why an architectural project is a work of research. Architectural practice, which we architects call project design, from the initial idea to the basic project, followed by the construction or working project and from there to site management, is, or should be, a real work of research. And by the same token, its transmission, the teaching of project design, is also a real work of research. In this text it is my intention to show how design in architecture is research. Because, while this may be difficult for those who are not architects to understand, project design is research.
Utility of Alternate, Noncentromeric Chromosome 17 Reference Probe for Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization Testing in Breast Cancer Cases
Authors: Pai Trupti , Shet Tanuja , Patil Asawari , Shetty Omshree , Singh Angad , Desai Sangeeta B.
Published: January 2018

Context

PathVysion—a US Food and Drug Administration–approved dual-probe human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2) fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) assay—provides the HER2:CEP17 ratio, a centromeric enumeration probe ratio for determining HER2 status in breast cancers. However, pericentromeric amplifications might then skew the HER2:CEP17 ratio, underestimating the HER2 status, which calls into question the use of CEP17 as the reference probe.

Objective

To analyze the utility of a noncentromeric chromosome 17 reference locus (D17S122) to assess HER2 gene status in cases showing “nonclassical” FISH patterns with the CEP17 probe.

Design

The HER2 status of breast cancers accessioned in the years 2015–2017, displaying “nonclassical” or “equivocal” results by the PathVysion (Abbott Molecular Inc, Des Plaines, Illinois) HER2 DNA Probe Kit were reflex tested using an alternate FISH probe (ZytoLight SPEC/D17S122, ZytoVision, Bremerhaven, Germany) and interpreted with American Society of Clinical Oncology/College of American Pathologists 2013 guidelines.

Results

Of 37 cases, 17 were FISH equivocal. With the alternate D17S122 probe, 13 (76.4%) were reclassified as amplified, 3 (17.6%) as nonamplified, and a single case retained an equivocal result. Of the 17 cases with a chromosome 17 polysomy pattern, disomy, polysomy, and monosomy patterns were seen with 14 cases, 2 cases, and 1 case, respectively. Within the 17 cases with polysomy pattern, 3 (17.6%) demonstrated an unusual colocalization pattern of HER2 and CEP17, which was not observed with the alternate probe.

Conclusions

The denominator-stable alternate probe is a useful adjunct in the diagnostic armamentarium to analyze HER2 status in cases with FISH equivocal and complex patterns.
Empowering Teachers Through Problem Solving
Authors: Burmeister Nancy , Elliott Rachel , Weber Liza , Whalen Nadine , Sprader Christina , White Kimberly
Published: January 2018

Teaching through problem solving may be a goal, but is it a reality? The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM 2000) and the Common Core State Standards Initiative (CCSSI 2010) both advocate that reasoning and problem solving are important skills to emphasize in all mathematics classrooms. One way teachers can do so is by selecting tasks that require students to engage in higher-level thinking and apply their mathematical knowledge (NCTM 2014). Then why is it that in many classrooms, students continue to learn mathematics through instruction that teaches rote procedural skills without connecting mathematical concepts? In this article, we address the challenges that may cause elementary school teachers to veer away from consistently integrating problem-solving opportunities into their classrooms.
Supporting Students' Contributions to Class Discussions
Authors: Collett Jennifer , Gearhart Maryl , Buchanan Leveille Nicole
Published: January 2018

Use these techniques to elicit ideas and engage the class in reasoning and argumentation.
An attempt to elaborate a construct to measure the degree of explicitness and implicitness in ELT materials
Authors: Criado Sánchez Raquel , Sánchez Pérez Aquilino , Cantos Gómez Pascual
Published: January 2018

The concepts of explicit and implicit (knowledge) are at the core of SLA studies. We take explicit as conscious and declarative (knowledge); implicit as unconscious, automatic and procedural (knowledge) (DeKeyser, 2003; R. Ellis, 2005a, 2005b, 2009; Hulstjin, 2005; Robinson, 1996; Schmidt, 1990, 1994). The importance of those concepts and components, we believe, must also be acknowledged in language teaching, and consequently in language teaching materials. However, explicitness and implicitness are rather complex constructs; such complexity allows for multiple nuances and perspectives in their analysis, and this fact poses a real challenge for their identification in the learning and teaching process and materials. We focus here on ELT materials and aim at the building of a reliable construct which may help in the identification of their potential for promoting implicit and explicit components. We first determined the features to identify the construct for implicitness and explicitness; next, we validated it and then we applied it to the analysis of the activities included in three sample units of three textbooks. The results were computed along a continuum ranging from 0 to 10 in each activity. The systematization and computation of results will hopefully offer a reliable figure regarding the identification of the degree of explicitness and/or implicitness in the materials analysed.
A Patient’s Tale of Incarceration in a Victorian Lunatic Asylum
Authors: Berkencotter Carol
Published: January 2018

Using the archival admissions records and the case history of a patient at a British asylum in the 1870s, the author compares two genres. The first of these is two medical certificates written and signed by two physicians attesting that the patient was of unsound mind and needed to be confined and treated. The second genre is the patient’s oral testimony to Parliament’s Select Committee on Lunacy Laws (1877), a narrative he delivered the year following his release from the asylum. Both genres are legal texts; however, it is the patient’s narrative of personal experience, as transcribed in the committee report, that allows the reader a glimpse of the misery imposed by confinement in a “lunatic” asylum. The two medical certificates have considerably more illocutionary force, however; as speech acts they most often resulted in confinement until the patient was determined to have recovered, was transferred to another asylum, or died.
Words for the Transitional Bubble: A Lexical Analysis of Two Economic Crises
Authors: Orts Llopis María Ángeles , Rea Rizzo Camino
Published: January 2018

This study aims at the analysis of the lexicon in English of the two professional areas, telecommunications and finance, affected by the crises of the recent years: the 90s dot-com bubble and the present-day Credit Crunch. Both crises share a common context of wealth and cultural complexity, being the root for the coinage of innovative specialised terms and collocations. Our study is specifically aimed at unveiling the lexical coverage of both crises, in terms of technolects and their context, evolving in several phases. First, two corpora of specialised, semi-specialised and general texts from the domains’ digital periodicals will be characterized according to lexical relevance and terminological volume, to see the extent in which they are lexically connected or diverge when experiencing a critical situation like a crisis. Finally, clarifying how far these two disciplines have related during the last critical years will hopefully provide some clues for the lexical ethnography of two institutionalised ways of thinking.
A reassessment of traditional lexicographical tools in the light of new corpora: sports Anglicisms in Spanish
Authors: Balteiro Isabel
Published: January 2018

There is no question nowadays as to the international and powerful status of English at a global scale and, consequently, as to its presence in non-English speaking countries at different levels. Linguistically speaking, English is one of the languages which have mostly influenced Spanish throughout its history and especially from the late 1960s. In this study, the impact of English on Spanish is considered in the language of sports; particularly, sports Anglicisms and false Anglicisms are analysed. Due attention is paid to the different forms that an Anglicism may adopt and to which of those forms are more widely accepted or rejected by prescriptivists and speakers at large, in the light of a contrastive analysis of their appearance in the Nuevo diccionario de anglicismos, the Diccionario de la Real Academia Española and the Corpus de Referencia del Español Actual.
The Art of Balance: A Corpus-assisted Stylistic Analysis of Woolfian Parallelism in «To the Lighthouse»
Authors: Zhao Mingzhu
Published: January 2018

This study has a two-fold objective: 1) to examine the density and variety of parallelism in Virginia Woolf’s landmark novel To the Lighthouse through a sample-based comparison between this novel and other representative modernist novels; 2) to discuss the specific lexical and syntactic structures that characterize Woolf’s parallelism. The results are extracted from a corpus-assisted reading and sampled textual analysis of her work. It shows that Woolfian parallelism is defined by an abundance of antithetical and synonymous lexical bundles, juxtaposed propositional phrases, -ing participles and appositional structures. Those structures constitute her special sentential development which is marked by the rhetoric of opposition, the rhetoric of simultaneity and progression, and the rhetoric of specificity. It is concluded that in To the Lighthouse, Woolf manipulates the above-mentioned linguistic resources to strike an artistic balance between poetry and prose, order and chaos, the physical reality and the mental world, and finally achieves what she calls “a feminine sentence”.
Detours in long-distance migration across the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau: individual consistency and habitat associations
Authors: Liu Dongping , Zhang Guogang , Jiang Hongxing , Lu Jun
Published: January 2018

Migratory birds often follow detours when confronted with ecological barriers, and understanding the extent and the underlying drivers of such detours can provide important insights into the associated cost to the annual energy budget and the migration strategies. The Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau is the most daunting geographical barrier for migratory birds because the partial pressure of oxygen is dramatically reduced and flight costs greatly increase. We analyzed the repeated migration detours and habitat associations of four Pallas’s GullsLarus ichthyaetusacross the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau over 22 migration seasons. Gulls exhibited notable detours, with the maximum distance being more than double that of the expected shortest route, that extended rather than reduced the passage across the plateau. The extent of longitudinal detours significantly increased with latitude, and detours were longer in autumn than in spring. Compared with the expected shortest routes, proximity to water bodies increased along autumn migration routes, but detour-habitat associations were weak along spring migration routes. Thus, habitat availability was likely one, but not the only, factor shaping the extent of detours, and migration routes were determined by different mechanisms between seasons. Significant between-individual variation but high individual consistency in migration timing and routes were revealed in both seasons, indicating a stronger influence of endogenous schedules than local environmental conditions. Gulls may benefit from repeated use of familiar routes and stopover sites, which may be particularly significant in the challenging environment of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau.
Evaluating the adaptive evolutionary convergence of carnivorous plant taxa through functional genomics
Authors: Wheeler Gregory L. , Carstens Bryan C.
Published: January 2018

Carnivorous plants are striking examples of evolutionary convergence, displaying complex and often highly similar adaptations despite lack of shared ancestry. Using available carnivorous plant genomes along with non-carnivorous reference taxa, this study examines the convergence of functional overrepresentation of genes previously implicated in plant carnivory. Gene Ontology (GO) coding was used to quantitatively score functional representation in these taxa, in terms of proportion of carnivory-associated functions relative to all functional sequence. Statistical analysis revealed that, in carnivorous plants as a group, only two of the 24 functions tested showed a signal of substantial overrepresentation. However, when the four carnivorous taxa were analyzed individually, 11 functions were found to be significant in at least one taxon. Though carnivorous plants collectively may show overrepresentation in functions from the predicted set, the specific functions that are overrepresented vary substantially from taxon to taxon. While it is possible that some functions serve a similar practical purpose such that one taxon does not need to utilize both to achieve the same result, it appears that there are multiple approaches for the evolution of carnivorous function in plant genomes. Our approach could be applied to tests of functional convergence in other systems provided on the availability of genomes and annotation data for a group.
On the morphological variability ofIchniotheriumtracks and evolution of locomotion in the sistergroup of amniotes
Authors: Buchwitz Michael , Voigt Sebastian
Published: January 2018

Ichniotheriumtracks with a relatively short pedal digit V (digit length ratio V/IV < 0.6) form the majority of yet described Late Carboniferous to Early Permian diadectomorph tracks and can be related to a certain diadectid clade with corresponding phalangeal reduction that includesDiadectesand its close relatives. Here we document the variation of digit proportions and trackway parameters in 25 trackways (69 step cycles) from nine localities and seven further specimens with incomplete step cycles from the type locality ofIchniotherium cottae(Gottlob quarry) in order to find out whether this type ofIchniotheriumtracks represents a homogeneous group or an assemblage of distinct morphotypes and includes variability indicative for evolutionary change in trackmaker locomotion. According to our results, the largest sample of tracks from three Lower Permian sites of the Thuringian Forest, commonly referred toI. cottae, is not homogeneous but shows a clear distinction in pace length, pace angulation, apparent trunk length and toe proportions between tracks from Bromacker quarry and those from the stratigraphically older sites Birkheide and Gottlob quarry. Three Late Carboniferous trackways ofIchniotheriumwith relatively short pedal digit V from Haine’s Farm, Ohio, and Alveley near Birmingham, United Kingdom, that have been referred to the ichnotaxa “Baropus hainesi,” “Megabaropus hainesi”and “Ichniotherium willsi,” respectively, share a marked outward rotation of foot imprints with respect to walking direction. Apart from this feature they are in many aspects similar to the Birkheide and Gottlob records ofI. cottae. With the possible exception of the Maroon Formation (Early Permian, Colorado) sample, Early PermianIchniotheriumtrackways with a relatively short pedal digit V fall into the morphological spectrum of the three well defined “Hainesi–Willsi,” “Birkheide–Gottlob” and “Bromacker” morphotypes. With their more obtuse pace angulations and higher body-size-normalized pace and stride lengths the Bromacker type tracks imply higher walking speeds of their trackmakers compared to all otherIchniotheriumtracks. More generally, a trend towards higher locomotion capability from the last common ancestor of allIchniotheriumproducers to the last common ancestor of all “Ichniotheriumwith relatively short pedal digit V” and from the latter to the trackmakers of the mid-Early Permian Bromacker type can be deduced—with the reservation that overall sample size is relatively small, making this scenario a preliminary assessment. Whether the presumed advancements represent a more general pattern within diadectomorphs remains open until the non-EuropeanIchniotheriumtrackway record improves. Ichnotaxonomic implications are discussed.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus and US Pediatric Intensive Care Utilization
Authors: Shanklin Alice , Olson Taylor , Patel Anita K. , Trujillo Rivera Eduardo A. , Pollack Murray M.
Published: October 2024

Importance

Bronchiolitis is the most common diagnosis necessitating respiratory support and pediatric intensive care, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of bronchiolitis. In 2023, the monoclonal antibody nirsevimab and the maternal RSVpreF vaccine were implemented to prevent RSV in infants.

Objective

To determine the potential association of novel RSV prevention strategies with pediatric intensive care unit (ICU) utilization.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cross-sectional study examined US pediatric ICU encounters with and without RSV from January 1, 2017, to June 1, 2023. Data were from Oracle Cerner RealWorld Data, a national electronic health record database. All children (aged >1 day and <18 years) admitted to an ICU during the study period were included in the analysis. Statistical analysis was performed from February to May 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes were ICU encounters with RSV and ICU encounters with RSV eligible for RSV prevention.

Results

There were 119 782 ICU encounters from 53 hospitals; 65 757 encounters (54.9%) were male; median (IQR) age was 4.5 (1.1-12.5) years, median (IQR) ICU length of stay was 1.8 (1.0-3.9) days; 13 702 ICU encounters (11.4%) had RSV, of which 38.6% (5217) were eligible for prevention (4.4% of total ICU encounters). Encounters with RSV accounted for 21.1% (109 334) of ICU days, of which 43.8% (47 888) were eligible for prevention (9.2% of total ICU days). Encounters with RSV were associated with a greater use of positive pressure ventilation (4074 [29.7%] vs 18 821 [17.7%]; P < .001) and vasoactive medications (3057 [22.3%] vs 18 570 [17.5%]; P < .001) compared with those without RSV.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this retrospective cross-sectional study of RSV and US pediatric intensive care utilization suggest that if 65% to 85% of eligible children received RSV prevention, an estimated 2.1% to 2.8% reduction in pediatric ICU encounters and an estimated 4.5% to 5.9% reduction in pediatric ICU days could be achieved.
Metabolic Bariatric Surgery in the Era of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists for Obesity Management
Authors: Lin Kevin , Mehrotra Ateev , Tsai Thomas C.
Published: October 2024

This cross-sectional study investigates rates of bariatric surgery and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist prescription among adults without diabetes in 2022 to 2023.
Metal Replacement in Aeronautics Applications Using Two‐Dimensional Multifunctional Composites
Authors: Valorosi Filippo , Scidà Alessandra , Chiodini Sergio , Kovtun Alessandro , Cristiano Francesco , Ferro Demarchi Enrico , Parkula Vitaliy , Favaretto Silvano , Giorgini Loris , Bertocchi Francesco , Dezitter Fabien , Bonaccurso Elmar , Candini Andrea , Treossi Emanuele , Palermo Vincenzo
Published: October 2024

Carbon‐based composites have replaced metals in many structural components of modern airplanes; however, functional applications still require metal conductors and devices. Here, the production and integration in small‐scale airplane parts of electric devices based on metal‐free layered composites of graphene, boron nitride, and polymers are described. Thanks to their two‐dimensional structure, these materials feature excellent tunable thermoelectrical properties and high flexibility. We describe the production and performance of heaters and ice sensors installed on scaled NACA‐0012 airfoils to avoid ice formation, to remove ice or to detect the ice on the outer skin of the airfoil. We demonstrate that we can tune the electrical conductivity of the composite heating element from 105 to 103 S m−1 that is preserved even after 1000 bending cycles. The heaters successfully achieve anti‐icing and deicing in representative icing conditions and can sustain high‐power densities as required for electrothermal ice‐protection systems in aviation. The composite material can be readapted into a sensor able to detect ice formation in real time in an icing wind tunnel. Moreover, the possibility to use the heaters developed as heating molds to cure composite materials by out‐of‐oven curing, with a significant energy saving potential, is demonstrated.
Enhancement of {110}<001> Texture by Controlling α‐phase and Achievement of Low Young's Modulus and High Strength in Metastable β‐type Ti–Zr‐Based Alloys
Authors: Tasaki Wataru , Makioka Yuki , Miyazaki Shuichi , Kim Hee Young
Published: October 2024

Achieving both low Young's modulus and high strength, which are essentially in a trade‐off relationship, is an important challenge in the field of biomaterials. Herein, the effects of oxygen and nitrogen addition on mechanical properties and recrystallization texture of a metastable Ti–18Zr–3Nb–3Sn–2Mo alloy are investigated. Both oxygen and nitrogen additions increase the apparent yield stress and tensile strength. The N‐added alloy exhibits an exceptionally strong {110}<001> texture, commonly referred to as Goss texture, leading to a lower Young's modulus when compared with the O‐added alloy. It is found that the formation and subsequent dissolution of the α‐phase plays an important role in the development of recrystallization texture. The {110}<001> texture can be enhanced in the O‐added alloy by a two‐step heat treatment, the first step to form the α‐phase and the second step to dissolve the α‐phase during recrystallization. An excellent combination of a low Young's modulus and a high yield stress is achieved in the O‐added alloy subjected to the two‐step heat treatment.
Stereolithography Printing and Mechanical Properties of Polyethylene Glycol Diacrylate/Hexagonal Boron Nitride Ceramic Composites
Authors: Yang Gongxian , Zou Bin , Wang Xinfeng , Li Lei , Chen Qinghua , Zhou Xingguo , Lai Qingguo , Huang Chuanzhen
Published: October 2024

To enhance the mechanical properties of bioceramic composite bone scaffolds, a composite paste of polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) and hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) with a solid content of up to 42 wt% was developed in this study. The part was produced using stereolithography (SLA). The SLA printing parameters and material ratios of the paste were optimized through a homogeneous design and mechanical property tests. The results indicate that the single‐line curing width of the PEGDA/h‐BN paste in the XY plane ranged from 172 to 209 μm, while the curing depth of a single layer along the Z‐axis ranged from 99 to 154 μm. Laser power was identified as the primary factor influencing both the width and depth of curing. The compressive strength of the printed sample of PEGDA/h‐BN ceramic composite paste was measured at 222.4 ± 5.6 MPa, which is 61 times greater than the compressive strength of a pure PEGDA structure and comparable to that of cortical bone (100‐230 MPa). Finally, the superior biocompatibility of PEGDA/h‐BN ceramics was confirmed through cytotoxicity experiments. Consequently, PEGDA/h‐BN ceramic composites meet the mechanical properties and biocompatibility requirements necessary for bone tissue applications, indicating promising potential in the field of bone tissue engineering.
Effects of Electromagnetic Field on Microstructure and Properties of Ni‐ Based Coatings Reinforced by WC in‐Situ
Authors: Yao Fangping , Wang Qingqiao , Wang Youkang , Li Jinhua
Published: October 2024

The in situ WC‐reinforced Ni60 laser cladding layer‐assisted electromagnetic field is prepared on the H13 steel surface. The microstructure and phase of the cladding layer are analyzed by scanning electron microscope, energy disperse spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffractometry, the hardness and wear resistance of the coating are tested by microhardness tester and ring‐block friction and wear tester. The results indicate that more WC particles are generated with the increase in the magnetic field strength and current value, and many uniformly distributed eutectic carbides are formed in the coating, which makes the structure more uniform and dense. The average microhardness of the coating reaches 786.5HV when the electromagnetic intensity is 20 mT‐9 A, and the wear amount after 90 min is 35.2 mg, which is 65.7% of the nonelectromagnetic‐assisted WC/Ni60 coating and only 28.6% of the substrate, the wear resistance is obviously improved. The change in the structure and the improvement in microhardness and wear resistance are the result of the combined action of the directional Lorentz force generated by the electric field and the inductive Lorentz force generated by the magnetic field.
Biodegradable, Self‐Adhesive, Stretchable, Transparent, and Versatile Electronic Skins Based on Intrinsically Hydrophilic Poly(Caproactone‐Urethane) Elastomer
Authors: Reddy Pulikanti Guruprasad , Sharma Vipul , Parihar Vijay Singh , Haider Ijlal , Barua Amit , Koivikko Anastasia , Yiannacou Kyriacos , Jongprasitkul Hatai , Kellomäki Minna , Sariola Veikko
Published: October 2024

In biomedical sciences, there is a demand for electronic skins with highly sensitive tactile sensors that have applications in patient monitoring, human–machine interfaces, and on‐body sensors. Sensor fabrication requires high‐performance conductive surfaces that are transparent, breathable, flexible, and easy to fabricate. It is also preferable if the electrodes are easily processable as wastes, for example, are degradable. In this work, the design and fabrication of hydrophilic silanol/amine‐terminated poly(caprolactone‐urethane) (SA‐PCLU) elastomer‐based breathable, stretchable, and biodegradable electrodes are reported. Ag nanowires dispersed in water are sprayed onto the intrinsically hydrophilic electrospun SA‐PCLU that became embedded into the scaffold and formed conformal hydrophilic polyurethane‐based conductive networks (HPCN). The electrodes are used to fabricate capacitive, curvature, and strain sensors, all having monomaterial composition. In addition to displaying particularly good transparencies at low sheet resistances, stretchability, hydrophilicity, and tight and conformal bonding with the target surface, the electrodes also allow the evaporation of perspiration, making them suitable for epidermal sensors for long‐time use. The application of the HPCN electrodes in flexible electronics and bionic skin applications is demonstrated through gesture monitoring experiments and swelling sensors.
Pyrene‐Based Self‐Assembled Monolayer with Improved Surface Coverage and Energy Level Alignment for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Lenaers Stijn , Lammar Stijn , Krishna Anurag , Stacchini Valerio , Cardeynaels Tom , Penxten Huguette , Weijtens Christ , Verhage Michael , Ruttens Bart , Maes Wouter , D'Haen Jan , Musiienko Artem , Aernouts Tom , Lutsen Laurence , Vanderzande Dirk , Poortmans Jef , Van Gompel Wouter
Published: October 2024

Recently, the efficiency of p‐i‐n perovskite solar cells drastically increased, a pivotal factor being the incorporation of self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) as a hole‐transporting layer (HTL). SAMs offer many advantages over conventional HTLs, including minimal material requirements, low cost, and facile processing. Current research is mainly focused on the development of carbazole‐derived SAMs. However, the versatility of organic chemistry allows for the design of SAMs with alternative organic cores that may possess specific benefits. In this study, three novel SAMs are incorporated in p‐i‐n perovskite solar cells, each based on an aromatic core commonly used in organic semiconductors. The novel SAMs vary in their energy level alignment with the perovskite active layer. Optimal alignment is achieved with a pyrene‐based SAM (4PAPyr), resulting in solar cells that outperform the commercially available 2PACz. Moreover, due to improved surface coverage, the use of 4PAPyr leads to a significantly higher number of working solar cell devices when compared to 2PACz, which is of particular interest with regard to upscaling. After device optimization, a power conversion efficiency of 22.2% is achieved with 4PAPyr. This research underlines the importance of diversifying SAMs to unlock further advancements in perovskite solar cell efficiency and scalability.
Photothermally‐Induced Reversible Rigidity of Nacre‐Mimetic Composites Toward Semi‐Active Personal Safeguard
Authors: Li Zimu , Wang Sheng , Liu Shuai , Wang Wenhui , Wu Jianpeng , Xuan Tingting , Zhang Zhentao , Li Danyi , Ma Yuqian , Gong Xinglong
Published: October 2024

The capacity to withstand challenges posed by complex environments is crucial for developing advanced high‐performance protective materials with mechanically adjustable nature. By constructing long‐range hierarchical network of shear‐stiffening gel‐carbon nanotube‐cellulose nanofiber (SCC) embedded within epoxy resin (ER), this work engineers a nacre‐inspired variable‐stiffness SCC‐ER composite (SCCE). Lightweight SCC scaffold attenuates falling impact force from 2.23 to 0.46 kN, and reaches 60 °C within 20 s under 1 sun exposure. Additionally, owing to the rigid ER matrix, SCCE exhibits 4.03 GPa elastic modulus, outperforming numerous conventional engineering materials in puncture resistance. Specific energy absorption of nacre‐mimetic SCCE presents 1.91 MJ m−3 while that of random structural SCCE is only 0.50 MJ m−3. More importantly, SCCE features representative photothermal‐induced reversible rigidity whose storage modulus varies from 9.85 MPa at 30 °C to 11.61 kPa at 116 °C under light stimulation. It also presents shape‐programmability, capable of adhering complex structural surfaces for protection. Eventually, SCCE‐based semi‐active adjustable protectors are constructed that leverage contactless photothermal effect to modulate rigidity. 5 mm‐thick smart SCCE‐protectors resist 163.93 m s−1 ballistic impact while 15‐mm commercial kneepads are penetrated at lower speed of 136.98 m s−1. This bio‐inspired semi‐active strategy proposes a promising avenue for enhancing personal protective equipment.
Multisite Crosslinked Poly(ether‐urethane)‐Based Polymer Electrolytes for High‐Voltage Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Pei Fei , Huang Yimeng , Wu Lin , Zhou Shiyuan , Kang Qi , Lin Wenjie , Liao Yaqi , Zhang Yi , Huang Kai , Shen Yue , Yuan Lixia , Sun Shi‐gang , Li Zhen , Huang Yunhui
Published: October 2024

Utilizing solid‐state polymer electrolytes (SPEs) in high‐voltage Li‐metal batteries is a promising strategy for achieving high energy density and safety. However, the SPEs face the challenges such as undesirable mechanical strength, low ionic conductivity and incompatible high‐voltage interface. Here, a novel crosslinked poly(ether‐urethane)‐based SPE with a molecular cross‐linked structure is fabricated to create high‐throughput Li+ transport pathway. The amino‐modified Zr‐porphyrin‐based metal‐organic frameworks (ZrMOF) are introduced as multisite cross‐linking nodes and polymer chain extenders. The abundant ether/ketonic‐oxygen and Lewis acid sites in the SPE achieve high Li+ conductivity (5.7 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 30 °C) and Li+ transference number (0.84). The interpenetrating cross‐linked structure of SPE with robust mechanical strength results in a record cycle life of 8000 h in Li||Li symmetric cell. The high structural stability of ZrMOF and abundant electron‐withdrawing urethane/ureido groups in the SPE with high oxidation potential (5.1 V) enables a discharge capacity of 182 mAh g−1 at 0.3 C over 500 cycles in a LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2||Li cell. Remarkably, a high energy density of 446 Wh kg−1 in a 1.5‐Ah pouch cell is obtained with high loading cathode (≈4 mAh cm−2), demonstrating a great prospect of the current SPE for practical application in solid‐state, high‐voltage Li‐metal batteries.
Spin‐Lifetime Probe for Detecting Intramolecular Noncovalent Interaction in Organic Semiconductors
Authors: Yang Tingting , Qin Yang , Wu Meng , Gu Xianrong , Meng Ke , Hu Shunhua , Zhang Cheng , Guo Ankang , Zheng Ruiheng , Zhang Rui , Guo Lidan , Sun Xiangnan
Published: October 2024

Intramolecular noncovalent interaction (INCI), a crucial strategy for effectively enhancing molecular planarity and extending π‐electron delocalization in organic semiconductors (OSCs), has played an increasingly important role in optoelectronic applications. However, though the INCI formation is regularly considered to improve the device performance by literature, there is no feasible approach to directly and reliably characterizing its formation in practical‐OSC films thus far. Here in this study, by theoretical analysis and calculation, the generation of INCIs in OSCs is found, normally consisting of relatively heavy elements, such as O···Se, O···S, N···S interactions, etc., can induce enhanced strength of spin‐orbit coupling, the primary factor dominating spin lifetime in OSCs. Based on this newly discovered theory, spin lifetime is creatively employed as a probe for sensitively detecting INCIs in OSC films via spin valves or field‐induced electron paramagnetic resonance, respectively. This study will highly promote academic and applicable developments of the cross‐cutting frontier research field between organic spintronics and electronics.
2D Titanium Carbide MXene and Single‐Molecule Fluorescence: Distance‐Dependent Nonradiative Energy Transfer and Leaflet‐Resolved Dye Sensing in Lipid Bilayers
Authors: Manzanares Lorena , Spurling Dahnan , Szalai Alan M. , Schröder Tim , Büber Ece , Ferrari Giovanni , Dagleish Martin R. J. , Nicolosi Valeria , Tinnefeld Philip
Published: October 2024

Despite their growing popularity, many fundamental properties and applications of MXene materials remain underexplored. Here, the nonradiative energy transfer properties of 2D titanium carbide MXene are investigated and their application in single‐molecule biosensing is explored for the first time. DNA origami positioners are used for single dye placement immobilized by a specific chemistry based on glycine‐MXene interactions, allowing precise control of their orientation on the surface. Each DNA origami structure carries a single dye molecule at predetermined heights. Single‐molecule fluorescence confocal microscopy reveals that energy transfer of an organic emitter (ATTO 542) on transparent thin films made of spincast Ti3C2Tx flakes follows a cubic distance dependence, where 50% of energy transfer efficiency is reached at 2.7 nm (d0). MXenes are applied as short‐distance spectroscopic nanorulers, determining z distances of dye‐labeled supported lipid bilayers fused on MXene's hydrophilic surface. Hydration layer (2.1 nm) and lipid bilayer thickness (4.5 nm) values that agree with the literature are obtained. These results highlight titanium carbide MXenes as promising substrates for single‐molecule biosensing of ultrathin assemblies, owing to their sensitivity near the interface, a distance regime that is typically inaccessible to other energy transfer tools.
Enhancing the Filler Utilization of Composite Gel Electrolytes via In Situ Solution‐Processable Method for Sustainable Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Fan Yanpeng , Feng Yang , Li Guanwu , Bo Yiwen , Wang Cun , Wang Dong , Qian Yumin , Ma Rujun , Hu Zhe , Zhang Kai , Chen Jun
Published: October 2024

The composite gel electrolyte (CGE), which combines the advantages of inorganic solid‐state electrolytes and solid polymer electrolytes, is regarded as the ultimate candidate for constructing batteries with high safety and superior electrode‐electrolyte interface contact. However, the ubiquitous agglomeration of nanofillers results in low filler utilization, which seriously reduces structural uniformity and ion transport efficiency, thus restricting the development of consistent and durable batteries. Herein, a solution‐processable method to in situ construct CGE with high filler utilization is introduced. The homogeneous metal–organic framework fillers contribute to uniform ionic and electronic filed distribution, realizing a stable electrode‐electrolyte interface. Consequently, the CGE with high filler utilization achieves an ultra‐long lifespan of 10 000 cycles with a capacity retention of 80.2%. This work provides guidance for constructing high‐performance CGEs in electrochemical energy‐storage devices.
Ultra‐Thin Strain‐Relieving Si1−xGex Layers Enabling III‐V Epitaxy on Si
Authors: Smith Trevor R. , McDermott Spencer , Patel Vatsalkumar , Anthony Ross , Hedge Manu , Bierer Sophie E. , Wang Sunzhuoran , Knights Andrew P. , Lewis Ryan B.
Published: October 2024

The explosion of artificial intelligence, the possible end of Moore's law, dawn of quantum computing, and the continued exponential growth of data communications traffic have brought new urgency to the need for laser integration on the diversified Si platform. While diode lasers on group III‐V platforms have long‐powered internet data communications and other optoelectronic technologies, direct integration with Si remains problematic. A paradigm‐shifting solution requires exploring new and unconventional materials and integration approaches. In this work, it is shown that a sub‐10‐nm ultra‐thin Si1−xGex buffer layer fabricated by an oxidative solid‐phase epitaxy process can facilitate extraordinarily efficient strain relaxation. The Si1−xGex layer is formed by ion implanting Ge into Si(111) and selectively oxidizing Si atoms in the resulting ion‐damaged layer, precipitating a fully strain‐relaxed Ge‐rich layer between the Si substrate and surface oxide. The efficient strain relaxation results from the high oxidation temperature, producing a periodic network of dislocations at the substrate interface, coinciding with modulations of the Ge content in the Si1−xGex layer and indicating the presence of defect‐mediated diffusion of Si through the layer. The epitaxial growth of high‐quality GaAs is demonstrated on this ultra‐thin Si1−xGex layer, demonstrating a promising new pathway for integrating III‐V lasers directly on the Si platform.
3D Printed Metallic Pillar Nanomechanical Resonators Decorated with TiO2 Nanotubes for Highly Sensitive Environmental Applications
Authors: Lamberti Andrea , Laurenti Marco , Manfredi Diego , Ricciardi Carlo , Stassi Stefano
Published: October 2024

Micro and nanomechanical devices offer enhanced sensing capabilities for detecting biological and chemical small molecules. However, miniaturization necessitates advanced fabrication processes and complex measurement systems, hindering routine sensor analysis. While alternative methods like 3D printing show promise, challenges such as low device resolution persist due to intrinsic damping of polymer inks. In this study, an array of micrometric pillar resonators is fabricated in Ti6Al4 V alloy using additive manufacturing based on laser powder bed fusion technology. These metallic nanomechanical resonators exhibit a very high quality factor with minimal difference between air and vacuum measurements due to low intrinsic damping. Furthermore, titania nanotubes grown on the pillars via anodic oxidation heighten sensitivity for molecular dye degradation evaluation. Leveraging the weak coupling phenomenon among the pillars in the array, these devices facilitate large‐scale parallelized measurements, here demonstrated with real‐time analysis of dye degradation process. This approach to creating mass sensing devices via metallic additive manufacturing can usher in a new generation of highly performing resonating sensor arrays, offering a cost‐effective and efficient alternative to traditional silicon microfabrication methods.
Laterally Modulating Carrier Concentration by Ion Irradiation in CdO Thin Films for Mid‐IR Plasmonics
Authors: Cleri Angela J. , He Mingze , Tolchin Maxwell J. , Gubbin Christopher , Lang Eric , Hattar Khalid , De Liberato Simone , Caldwell Joshua D. , Maria Jon‐Paul
Published: October 2024

This report demonstrates tunable carrier densities in CdO thin films through local ion irradiation, providing lateral control of mid‐IR optical properties. Ion‐solid interactions produce donor‐like defects that boost electron concentrations from the practical minimum of 2.5 × 1019 cm−3 to a maximum of 2.5 × 1020 cm−3 by metered ion exposure. This range is achieved using He, N, Ar, or Au ions at 1–2.8 MeV; when normalized by displacements per atom, all ion species produce comparable results. Since CdO is well‐described by the Drude model, irradiation‐tuned carrier densities directly alter the infrared dielectric function, and in turn, mid‐infrared optical properties. Further, it is demonstrated that by combining irradiation with traditional lithography, CdO films expose to ions in the presence of 3‐µm thick, patterned photoresist exhibit lateral carrier density profiles with ≈400‐nm resolution. Scanning near‐field optical microscopy reveals sharp optical interfaces with almost no companion contrast in surface morphology, microstructure, or crystallinity. Finally, CdO lateral homostructures supporting surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) are demonstrated whose dispersion relation can be tuned through periodic patterning in a monolithic platform by simple nanofabrication. Numerical simulations show these polaritons result from strong coupling between excitations at CdO plasma frequencies and SPPs supported by the platinum substrate.
Photoelectrodes with Enhanced Carrier Generation and Collection Through Optical Simulation and Materials Engineering
Authors: Liu Huiya , Shao Jialin , Zhao Jia , Zhao Jingjing , Zhang Zemin , Huo Hongqing
Published: October 2024

The efficiency of solar‐fuel conversion in photoelectrochemical (PEC) systems is hindered by significant losses of photons and photocarriers within the photoelectrodes. This study introduces an innovative ITO@In2S3 core‐shell nanowire structure designed to overcome these challenges through cutting‐edge materials engineering and sophisticated simulation techniques. Optical modeling and finite element simulations highlight the conflict between photocarrier generation and collection in planar In2S3 thin films and demonstrate how the core‐shell nanowire geometry can significantly enhance light absorption. The developed ITO@In2S3 nanowire photoanodes achieve a photocurrent of 11.3 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus RHE, which is nearly five times greater than that of planar ITO/In2S3 thin films. Characterization techniques, including UV–vis absorption and charge separation efficiency measurements, confirm the enhanced light absorption and improved carrier collection facilitated by broadening the optical absorption range and reducing carrier transport distances. This research not only deepens the understanding of the dynamics within thin‐film photoelectrodes but also paves the way for the development of more efficient technologies for solar fuel conversion.