bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electric‐Field Control of Propagating Spin Waves by Ferroelectric Domain‐Wall Motion in a Multiferroic Heterostructure
Authors: Qin Huajun , Dreyer Rouven , Woltersdorf Georg , Taniyama Tomoyasu , van Dijken Sebastiaan
Published: June 2021

Magnetoelectric coupling in multiferroic heterostructures offers a promising platform for electric‐field control of magnonic devices based on low‐power spin‐wave transport. Here, electric‐field manipulation of the amplitude and phase of propagating spin waves in a ferromagnetic Fe film on top of a ferroelectric BaTiO3 substrate is demonstrated experimentally. Electric‐field effects in this composite material system are mediated by strain coupling between alternating ferroelectric stripe domains with in‐plane and perpendicular polarization and fully correlated magnetic anisotropy domains with differing spin‐wave transport properties. The propagation of spin waves across the strain‐induced magnetic anisotropy domains of the Fe film is directly imaged and it is shown how reversible electric‐field‐driven motion of ferroelectric domain walls and pinned anisotropy boundaries turns the spin‐wave signal on and off. Furthermore, linear electric‐field tuning of the spin‐wave phase by altering the width of strain‐coupled stripe domains is demonstrated. The results provide a new route toward energy‐efficient reconfigurable magnonics.
Extreme Biomimetics: Designing of the First Nanostructured 3D Spongin–Atacamite Composite and its Application
Authors: Tsurkan Dmitry , Simon Paul , Schimpf Christian , Motylenko Mykhaylo , Rafaja David , Roth Friedrich , Inosov Dmytro S. , Makarova Anna A. , Stepniak Izabela , Petrenko Iaroslav , Springer Armin , Langer Enrico , Kulbakov Anton A. , Avdeev Maxim , Stefankiewicz Artur R. , Heimler Korbinian , Kononchuk Olga , Hippmann Sebastian , Kaiser Doreen , Viehweger Christine , Rogoll Anika , Voronkina Alona , Kovalchuk Valentine , Bazhenov Vasilii V. , Galli Roberta , Rahimi‐Nasrabadi Mehdi , Molodtsov Serguei L. , Rahimi Parvaneh , Falahi Sedigheh , Joseph Yvonne , Vogt Carla , Vyalikh Denis V. , Bertau Martin , Ehrlich Hermann
Published: June 2021

The design of new composite materials using extreme biomimetics is of crucial importance for bioinspired materials science. Further progress in research and application of these new materials is impossible without understanding the mechanisms of formation, as well as structural features at the molecular and nano‐level. It presents a challenge to obtain a holistic understanding of the mechanisms underlying the interaction of organic and inorganic phases under conditions of harsh chemical reactions for biopolymers. Yet, an understanding of these mechanisms can lead to the development of unusual—but functional—hybrid materials. In this work, a key way of designing centimeter‐scale macroporous 3D composites, using renewable marine biopolymer spongin and a model industrial solution that simulates the highly toxic copper‐containing waste generated in the production of printed circuit boards worldwide, is proposed. A new spongin–atacamite composite material is developed and its structure is confirmed using neutron diffraction, X‐ray diffraction, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy/selected‐area electron diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, near‐edge X‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. The formation mechanism for this material is also proposed. This study provides experimental evidence suggesting multifunctional applicability of the designed composite in the development of 3D constructed sensors, catalysts, and antibacterial filter systems.
Optimizing Surface N‐Doping of Fe‐N‐C Catalysts Derived from Fe/Melamine‐Decorated Polyaniline for Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysis
Authors: Mahmood Azhar , Xie Nanhong , Zhao Bolin , Zhong Lijie , Zhang Yuwei , Niu Li
Published: June 2021

The insufficient active site density and poor stability of iron and nitrogen co‐doped carbon (Fe‐N‐C) catalyst remain as great challenges for advanced oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Surface N‐doping together with Fe species is considered as an efficient strategy to enhance the catalytic activity and stability of Fe‐N‐C. Here, we report a facile preparation of high performing Fe‐N‐C catalysts derived from Fe/melamine‐decorated polyaniline. The optimal catalyst displays much better ORR onset and half‐wave potentials (1.00 and 0.86 V) than that of the melamine‐free catalyst (0.97 and 0.83 V) and even the commercial Pt/C (0.99 and 0.83 V), respectively. It also shows a decent stability during 20 000 cycles of accelerated durability test (ADT) with only 15 mV loss in the half‐wave potential. Physical and electrochemical characterizations demonstrate that introduction of melamine could increase the percentage of surface pyrrolic N species and non‐crystalline Fe species, which would be responsible for the significant improvement in the catalytic performance toward ORR.
Highly Sensitive and Reliable NIR Luminescent Sensing Toward Nitro‐Aromatic Antibiotics in Water
Authors: Wang Luan , Shi Chao , Zhang Chaohan , Li Yuxin , Li Guangming
Published: June 2021

Near‐infrared (NIR) light features less photon scatter and deeper penetration, thereby providing a sensitive and reliable platform for qualifying and quantifying trace organic contaminants in water medium. Herein, a lanthanide/β‐diketone complex, Yb(dmh)3(phen) (dmh = 2,6‐dimethyl‐3,5‐heptanedione, phen = 1,10‐phenanthroline), is synthesized and performs characteristic NIR luminescence of Yb3+ ions. The outstanding photophysical properties result from the combination effects of excited‐state inter‐ligand charge transfer, ligand‐to‐metal energy transfer, and high structural symmetry. Noteworthily, this NIR luminophore exhibits state‐of‐the‐art sensitivity toward nitro‐aromatic antibiotics in water. The limits of detection are lower to sub‐nanomolar level for nitroimidazoles (metronidazole 0.18 nM; dimetridazole 0.23 nM; ornidazole 0.28 nM) and even picomolar level for nitrofurans (nitrofurantoin 43 pM; nitrofurazone 46 pM). This exciting sensitivity attributes to photo‐induced electron transfer and inner filter effect between sensor and adsorbed analytes. The sensor is also capable of distinguished stability, selectivity, competitiveness, and anti‐interference, which makes it far better suited to the commercial application. The successfully developed technique of NIR luminescence sensing extends the platform of optical devices and sensing materials, being of practical value in monitoring water quality.
Biopolymer Cooperation for Sustainable High‐Performance Oxidase‐Based Biosensing with the Simplest Possible Readout of Substrate Conversion
Authors: Soysa H. Sasimali M. , Rattanopas Sopita , Teanphonkrang Somjai , Quek Timothy , Phomphrai Khamphee , Schulte Albert
Published: June 2021

For sustainable high‐quality biosensor preparation, the biopolymers zein and gelatin are placed on Pt electrodes as base‐ and top‐coats, respectively, through simple drop‐and‐dry addition. The gelatin top‐coat of the biocompatible sandwich supports covalent external attachment of glucose oxidase (GOx), ensuring easy access of substrate to enzyme, while the lower, selectively permeable zein base‐coat protects electro‐oxidative detection of enzymically‐produced hydrogen peroxide from interferents. The functional cooperativity between gelatin‐GOx immobilization and molecular filtering by zein produced signal linearity up to 1 mm glucose, a sub‐µm practical detection limit, a rapid response time, a long shelf‐life, and excellent glucose analytical quality testing even with serum samples with intentionally elevated levels of interferents. This demonstrates for the first time the exceptional power of the cooperative action of two natural polymers in the ecofriendly improvement of a biosensor. The excellent performance of the novel biosensor design is confirmed here using GOx as a model, however, its application to other enzymes, antibodies, and DNA is feasible, offering economical biosensing while utilizing green functional materials. Moreover, the successful establishment of the cooperative dual biopolymer functionality on mass‐fabricated commercial screen‐printed electrode platforms verify the essential suitability of this methodology for portable clinical and personal health care monitoring.
Carbon Dots for Photocatalytic Degradation of Aqueous Pollutants: Recent Advancements
Authors: Akbar Kamran , Moretti Elisa , Vomiero Alberto
Published: June 2021

The immense progress of humanity on the technological, domestic, and industrial fronts comes at the cost of polluting the planet. Aquatic pollution is particularly dangerous since all life forms are directly linked to it. Each year tons of industrial and domestic pollutants make their way into aqueous systems. Efficient removal/degradation of these pollutants is of prime importance for the sustainable future. Among many technologies, photodegradation is an emerging and promising method for the successful removal of aqueous pollutants since it is powered by abundant solar light. The last decade had shown that carbon dots are among the most promising materials that can be utilized as an efficient tool to derive various solar‐driven chemical reactions. Carbon dots possess unique photophysical and chemical properties such as light‐harvesting over a broad‐spectrum region, upconversion photoluminescence, photosensitizers, chemical inertness, and bivalent redox character, etc. The ease of synthesis of carbon dots at low cost also contributes hugely to their utilizations as an efficient photocatalyst for the degradation of aqueous pollutants. This review summarizes the recent progress made in the field of photodegradation of aqueous pollutants with the aid of carbon dots and their hybrids, highlighting the critical role carbon dots can play in the field.
Independent Multichannel Wavefront Modulation for Angle Multiplexed Meta‐Holograms
Authors: Jang Junhyeok , Lee Gun‐Yeal , Sung Jangwoon , Lee Byoungho
Published: June 2021

Meta‐holograms have been investigated widely because of their capabilities that are not feasible in conventional holograms, such as full‐color, broadband, and bifacial image generation performance. In particular, a high degree of freedom in designing meta‐atoms provides opportunities to multiplex holograms by using light properties, such as angle, polarization, and wavelength. However, further development of techniques for meta‐holograms recording multiple wavefronts is still necessary to expand the amount of optical information and improve the security level of holographic encryption. In this study, detour phase holograms are combined with the spatial multiplexing method to record four phase profiles in a single metasurface device. Independent wavefront modulation, which can process four channels as a bijective function, is realized by engineering the scattering properties of the meta‐atom. Based on the concept, meta‐holograms are demonstrated experimentally, independently generating four different images depending on the incident angles with high fidelity. Because of the expanded capacity and independence, the proposed device provides a potential platform for optical devices in various fields, such as holography, multifunctional flat optics, and off‐axis optical devices.
Photonic Metal‐Organic Frameworks
Authors: Cong Cong , Ma Huaibo
Published: June 2021

Materials of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) in pure and hybridized forms showing photonic properties have received much attention during past years. Strategies to prepare photonic MOF‐based materials are constantly used as follows: 1) designing of pure MOFs with intrinsic luminescent units such as organic linkers and/or lanthanide ions; 2) designing of hybrid MOF composites through encapsulation of extrinsic luminescent units such as organic dyes and/or inorganic nanospecies; and 3) designing of MOF‐based composites through mixing both intrinsic and extrinsic luminescent units to display synergistic effect. A highly ordered structure with the richness of space groups enable well‐designed MOFs to display second‐harmonic generation. In addition, easy formation of well‐faceted morphology, to serve as optical microresonators in MOF crystals, is beneficial for the exploration of the miniaturization of lasers. Moreover, with the assistance of stepwise coating, devices fabricated by using MOF‐based materials in lighting have been realized. Furthermore, biocompatible nanoscale MOF composites coated by polymers and encapsulated with photo‐absorbing agents in cancer treatment are also discussed. This review provides a summary and discussion of the very recent progress of photonic MOFs in applications of white solid‐state lighting, lasing, nonlinear optics, and phototherapy in cancer treatment.
What Can We Learn from the Time Evolution of COVID‐19 Epidemic in Slovenia?
Authors: Bâldea Ioan
Published: June 2021

A recent work indicates that temporarily splitting larger populations into smaller groups can efficiently mitigate the spread of SARS‐CoV‐2 virus. The fact that, soon afterward, the two million people Slovenia was the first European country proclaiming the end of COVID‐19 epidemic within national borders may be relevant from this perspective. Motivated by this evolution, in this paper the time dynamics of coronavirus cases in Slovenia is investigated with emphasis on how efficient various containment measures act to diminish the number of COVID‐19 infections. Noteworthily, the present analysis does not rely on any speculative theoretical assumption; it is solely based on raw epidemiological data. Out of the results presented here, the most important one is perhaps the finding that, while imposing drastic curfews and travel restrictions reduce the infection rate κ by a factor of four with respect to the unrestricted state, they only improve the κ‐value by ≈15% as compared to the much bearable state of social and economic life wherein wearing face masks and social distancing rules are enforced/followed. Significantly for behavioral and social science, our analysis may reveal an interesting self‐protection instinct of the population, which became manifest even before the official lockdown enforcement.
Substitutional Vanadium Sulfide Nanodispersed in MoS2 Film for Pt‐Scalable Catalyst
Authors: Agyapong‐Fordjour Frederick Osei‐Tutu , Yun Seok Joon , Kim Hyung‐Jin , Choi Wooseon , Kirubasankar Balakrishnan , Choi Soo Ho , Adofo Laud Anim , Boandoh Stephen , Kim Yong In , Kim Soo Min , Kim Young‐Min , Lee Young Hee , Han Young‐Kyu , Kim Ki Kang
Published: June 2021

Among transition metal dichalcogenides (TMdCs) as alternatives for Pt‐based catalysts, metallic‐TMdCs catalysts have highly reactive basal‐plane but are unstable. Meanwhile, chemically stable semiconducting‐TMdCs show limiting catalytic activity due to their inactive basal‐plane. Here, metallic vanadium sulfide (VSn) nanodispersed in a semiconducting MoS2 film (V–MoS2) is proposed as an efficient catalyst. During synthesis, vanadium atoms are substituted into hexagonal monolayer MoS2 to form randomly distributed VSn units. The V–MoS2 film on a Cu electrode exhibits Pt‐scalable catalytic performance; current density of 1000 mA cm−2 at 0.6 V and overpotential of −0.08 V at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 with excellent cycle stability for hydrogen‐evolution‐reaction (HER). The high intrinsic HER performance of V–MoS2 is explained by the efficient electron transfer from the Cu electrode to chalcogen vacancies near vanadium sites with optimal Gibbs free energy (−0.02 eV). This study provides insight into ways to engineer TMdCs at the atomic‐level to boost intrinsic catalytic activity for hydrogen evolution.
Exploring the Dominant Role of Atomic‐ and Nano‐Ruthenium as Active Sites for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in Both Acidic and Alkaline Media
Authors: Zhang Lijie , Jang Haeseong , Wang Yan , Li Zijian , Zhang Wei , Kim Min Gyu , Yang Dongjiang , Liu Shangguo , Liu Xien , Cho Jaephil
Published: June 2021

Ru nanoparticles (NPs) and single atoms (SAs)‐based materials have been investigated as alternative electrocatalysts to Pt/C for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Exploring the dominant role of atomic‐ and nano‐ruthenium as active sites in acidic and alkaline media is very necessary for optimizing the performance. Herein, an electrocatalyst containing both Ru SAs and NPs anchored on defective carbon (RuSA+NP/DC) has been synthesized via a Ru–alginate metal–organic supramolecules conversion method. RuSA+NP/DC exhibits low overpotentials of 16.6 and 18.8 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in acidic and alkaline electrolytes, respectively. Notably, its mass activities are dramatically improved, which are about 1.1 and 2.4 times those of Pt/C at an overpotential of 50 mV in acidic and alkaline media, respectively. Theoretical calculations reveal that Ru SAs own the most appropriate H* adsorption strength and thus, plays a dominant role for HER in acid electrolyte, while Ru NPs facilitate the dissociation of H2O that is the rate‐determining step in alkaline electrolyte, leading to a remarkable HER activity.
Photoacoustic Force‐Guided Precise and Fast Delivery of Nanomedicine with Boosted Therapeutic Efficacy
Authors: Wang Jun , Li Tingting , Ni Jen‐Shyang , Guo Heng , Kang Tianyi , Li Zeshun , Zha Menglei , Lu Songbo , Zhang Chen , Qi Weizhi , Xi Lei , Li Kai
Published: June 2021

Precise and efficient delivery of nanomedicine to the target site has remained as a major roadblock in advanced cancer treatment. Here, a novel photoacoustic force (PAF)‐guided nanotherapeutic system is reported based on a near‐infrared (NIR)‐absorbing semiconducting polymer (SP), showing significantly improved tumor accumulation and deep tissue penetration for enhanced phototherapeutic efficacy. The accumulation of nanoparticles in 4T1 tumor‐bearing mice induced by the PAF strategy displays a fivefold enhancement in comparison with that of the traditional passive targeting pathway, in a significantly shortened time (45 min vs 24 h) with an enhanced penetration depth in tumors. Additionally, a tumor‐bearing mouse model is rationally designed to unveil the mechanism, indicating that the nanoparticles enter solid tumors through enhanced transportation across blood vessel barriers via both inter‐endothelial gaps and active trans‐endothelial pathways. This process is specifically driven by PAF generated from the nanoparticles under NIR laser irradiation. The study thus demonstrates a new nanotherapeutic strategy with low dose, enhanced delivery efficiency in tumor, and boosted therapeutic efficacy, opening new doors for designing novel nanocarriers.
A Fully Integrated Closed‐Loop System Based on Mesoporous Microneedles‐Iontophoresis for Diabetes Treatment
Authors: Li Xiangling , Huang Xinshuo , Mo Jingshan , Wang Hao , Huang Qiqi , Yang Cheng , Zhang Tao , Chen Hui‐Jiuan , Hang Tian , Liu Fanmao , Jiang Lelun , Wu Qianni , Li Hongbo , Hu Ning , Xie Xi
Published: June 2021

A closed‐loop system that can mini‐invasively track blood glucose and intelligently treat diabetes is in great demand for modern medicine, yet it remains challenging to realize. Microneedles technologies have recently emerged as powerful tools for transdermal applications with inherent painlessness and biosafety. In this work, for the first time to the authors' knowledge, a fully integrated wearable closed‐loop system (IWCS) based on mini‐invasive microneedle platform is developed for in situ diabetic sensing and treatment. The IWCS consists of three connected modules: 1) a mesoporous microneedle‐reverse iontophoretic glucose sensor; 2) a flexible printed circuit board as integrated and control; and 3) a microneedle‐iontophoretic insulin delivery component. As the key component, mesoporous microneedles enable the painless penetration of stratum corneum, implementing subcutaneous substance exchange. The coupling with iontophoresis significantly enhances glucose extraction and insulin delivery and enables electrical control. This IWCS is demonstrated to accurately monitor glucose fluctuations, and responsively deliver insulin to regulate hyperglycemia in diabetic rat model. The painless microneedles and wearable design endows this IWCS as a highly promising platform to improve the therapies of diabetic patients.
Deep Learning‐Assisted Quantification of Atomic Dopants and Defects in 2D Materials
Authors: Yang Sang‐Hyeok , Choi Wooseon , Cho Byeong Wook , Agyapong‐Fordjour Frederick Osei‐Tutu , Park Sehwan , Yun Seok Joon , Kim Hyung‐Jin , Han Young‐Kyu , Lee Young Hee , Kim Ki Kang , Kim Young‐Min
Published: June 2021

Atomic dopants and defects play a crucial role in creating new functionalities in 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDs). Therefore, atomic‐scale identification and their quantification warrant precise engineering that widens their application to many fields, ranging from development of optoelectronic devices to magnetic semiconductors. Scanning transmission electron microscopy with a sub‐Å probe has provided a facile way to observe local dopants and defects in 2D TMDs. However, manual data analytics of experimental images is a time‐consuming task, and often requires subjective decisions to interpret observed signals. Therefore, an approach is required to automate the detection and classification of dopants and defects. In this study, based on a deep learning algorithm, fully convolutional neural network that shows a superior ability of image segmentation, an efficient and automated method for reliable quantification of dopants and defects in TMDs is proposed with single‐atom precision. The approach demonstrates that atomic dopants and defects are precisely mapped with a detection limit of ≈1 × 1012 cm−2, and with a measurement accuracy of ≈98% for most atomic sites. Furthermore, this methodology is applicable to large volume of image data to extract atomic site‐specific information, thus providing insights into the formation mechanisms of various defects under stimuli.
Highly Temperature‐Stable Carbon Nanotube Transistors and Gigahertz Integrated Circuits for Cryogenic Electronics
Authors: Xie Yunong , Zhong Donglai , Fan Chenwei , Deng Xiaosong , Peng Lian‐Mao , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: June 2021

Cryogenic electronics are attracting more and more attentions owing to the rising of space exploration and quantum computing, in which low‐temperature stable operation is even more concerned than performance of the integrated circuits (ICs). As a promising semiconducting material, carbon nanotube (CNT) has been extensively explored on its low‐temperature transport characteristics, but the cryogenic electronics application of CNT transistors and ICs has seldom been demonstrated. In this work, the low‐temperature operation of field‐effect transistors (FETs) and ICs built on solution‐derived high semiconducting purity randomly oriented CNT film is investigated. The randomly oriented CNT FETs exhibit much higher temperature stability than the individual CNT based FETs and Si transistors from room temperature to liquid nitrogen temperature, and then the ICs constructed by the CNT film FETs present excellent temperature‐stability. Specifically, the fabricated five‐stage ring oscillators (ROs) exhibit oscillation frequency up to 1.5 GHz with the performance change less than 0.5% at the temperature ranging from 300 to 80 K. The work reveals the great potential of high‐performance transistors and ICs built on randomly oriented CNT films in cryogenic electronics applications.
Integrated weed management with reduced herbicides in a no‐till dairy rotation
Authors: Summers Haleigh , Karsten Heather D. , Curran William , Malcolm Glenna M.
Published: June 2021

With more than 65% of agronomic crops under no‐till in Pennsylvania, herbicides are relied on for weed management. To lessen the environmental impact and selection pressure for herbicide resistance, we conducted a 9‐yr experiment to test herbicide reduction practices in a dairy crop rotation at Rock Springs, PA. The rotation included soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]–corn (Zea mays L.)–3‐yr alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)–canola (Brassica napus L.). The following practices were used to reduce herbicide inputs: (a) banding residual herbicides over corn and soybean rows and using high‐residue inter‐row cultivation; (b) seeding a small grain companion crop with alfalfa; (c) plowing once in 6 yr to terminate the perennial forage. These practices were compared with standard herbicide‐based weed management (SH) in continuous no‐till. We hypothesized: (a) There would be more weed biomass in the reduced herbicide treatment (RH), (b) leading to more weeds in RH over time, but (c) the added weed pressure would not affect yield (d) or differences in net return. We sampled weed biomass in soybean, corn, and the first two forage years. In corn and soybean, weed biomass was often greater in RH than SH and increased over the years in the RH treatments. In the forage, weed biomass did not always differ between treatments. Yield and differences in net return were similar in most crops and years. Results suggest that weed management with reduced herbicide inputs supplemented with an integrated approach can be effective but may lead to more weeds over time.
Whole genome sequencing identifies a cryptic SOX9 regulatory element duplication underlying a case of 46,XX ovotesticular difference of sexual development
Authors: Qian Zhiyu , Grand Katheryn , Freedman Andrew , Nieto Maria C. , Behlmann Andrea , Schweiger Bahareh M. , Sanchez‐Lara Pedro A.
Published: June 2021

Ovotesticular differences of sexual development (OT‐DSD) are rare genetic variances defined by the coexistence of both testicular and ovarian tissues. Various molecular etiologies including SRY translocation or SOX9 pathogenic variants with different modes of inheritance have been associated with 46,XX OT‐DSD. Here we describe a child diagnosed with SRY‐negative 46,XX OT‐DSD after completing a series of complex clinical genetic analyses, including chromosomal microarray, DSD gene panel (sequencing and deletion/duplication analysis), whole exome sequencing, and whole genome sequencing. Of these, only whole genome sequencing reported a pathogenic duplication in a non‐coding region that contains the RevSex regulatory element, which modifies SOX9 expression and is associated with 46,XX OT‐DSD and complete sex reversal. This is the first clinical RevSex duplication detected by clinical whole genome sequencing. We highlight the utility of whole genome sequencing in shortening the diagnostic odyssey and the importance of optimal counseling through a team‐based multi‐specialty approach for patients with DSDs.
Investigation of DNA binding and bioactivities of furan cored Schiff base Cu (II), Ni (II), and Co (III) complexes: Synthesis, characterization and spectroscopic properties
Authors: Venkateswarlu Kadtala , Daravath Sreenu , Ramesh Gali , Lakshmi P. V. Anantha , Shivaraj
Published: June 2021

Novel binary metal complexes,1[Cu(FMIMBMOP)2],2[Ni(FMIMBMOP)2] and3[Co(FMIMBMOP)3], where FMIMBMOP (2‐((E)‐((furan‐2‐yl)methylimino)methyl)‐4‐bromo‐6‐methoxyphenol), were synthesized and characterized using different analytical techniques. Result of spectral studies reveals that square planar geometry is assigned for Cu (II) and Ni (II) complexes, whereas octahedral geometry is assigned for Co (III) complex. The thermodynamic and kinetic parameters for the degradation of the complexes were ascertained by Coats–Redfern method for thermogravimetric data attained from thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The stability of the complexes has been calculated from quantum chemical parameters using highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO)–lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energies. The DNA binding of complexes was studied by using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopic technique; screening their ability to bind to calf thymus DNA (CT‐DNA) showed that the complexes can interact with CT‐DNA through intercalation mood, where theKbvalues are 2.59 ± 0.01 × 104, 7.43 ± 0.03 × 103, and 6.73 ± 0.02 × 104 M−1for1,2, and3, respectively. Stern–Volmer quenching constant (Ksv) values ranged from 2.32 ± 0.03 × 103to 1.66 ± 0.02 × 104 M−1were calculated for complexes from fluorescence studies. The oxidative and photolytic cleavage of supercoiled pBR322 DNA was studied and found that the complexes have cleaved this DNA effectively. The novel metal complexes have shown significant antioxidant activity against DPPH radical. The antibacterial activity of Schiff base and its metal complexes screened againstBacillus thuringiensis,Streptococcus pneumoniae,Escherichia coli, andPseudomonas putidawas investigated, and the results indicated that the metal complexes have better results than Schiff base ligand. The catalytic ability of metal complexes1,2, and3was found to be3 > 1 > 2.
Experimental and theoretical investigation of the catalytic performance of reduced Schiff base and Schiff base iron complexes: Transformation to magnetically retrievable catalyst
Authors: Mondal Rimpa , Chakraborty Aratrika , Ghanta Rinku , Menéndez María Isabel , Chattopadhyay Tanmay
Published: June 2021

Catalytic efficiencies for the oxidation of alcohols of a mononuclear Schiff base iron complex (FeL) and an analogous reduced Schiff base one (FeRL) have been assessed experimentally and theoretically. The structure ofFeLhad been previously reported by our group. Here, we have synthesized the reduced Schiff base complexFeRLwhere RL = 2,2′‐[(2,2‐dimethyl‐1,3‐propanediyl)bis (iminomethylene)]bis[2,4‐dichlorophenol]. The single‐crystal X‐ray analyses of the new complex reflected its mononuclear nature and an umbrella‐like framework. Homogeneous catalytic experiments revealed the superiority ofFeRLoverFeL, which could be rationalized by comparing the stability of the corresponding FeV = O species characterized through density functional theory calculations. Based on its excellence,FeRLwas chosen for surface modification of magnetite nanoparticles coated with dopamine to generate magnetically recoverable Fe3O4@Dopa@FeRL (FDFeRL).FDFeRLwas characterized with the aid of field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, powder X‐ray diffraction and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and efficiently used in the oxidation of a variety of alcohols. Our synthesis of the supported catalyst can be deemed as a simple, economical and sustainable one. Catalyst recovery could be easily achieved by simple application of a magnet.FDFeRLcould be reused several times without compromising its catalytic efficiency.
Hydrolyzed collagen on PVA‐based electrospun membranes: Synthesis and characterization
Authors: García‐Hernández Alitzel Belem , Morales‐Sánchez Eduardo , Calderón‐Domínguez Georgina , Salgado‐Cruz Ma. de la Paz , Farrera‐Rebollo Reynold Ramón , Vega‐Cuellar Miguel Ángel , García‐Bórquez Arturo
Published: June 2021

Physicochemical, structural, and thermal properties of electrospun membranes depend on process conditions and the type and concentration of the raw materials used to produce them. In this work, the electrospinning technique (ES) is used to synthesize membranes with hydrolyzed collagen (HC) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) at two different distances. The characterization of these membranes is then carried out by X‐Ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, water vapor permeability (WVP), microscopy techniques, and porosity measurements. Results show that the morphology of the ES membranes depends mainly on the polymer/solvent system's physicochemical properties and the distance to the collector. Thicker samples (68–86 μm) are formed when using the furthest distance (10 cm), having fiber diameters smaller than 1 μm, porosity percentages up to 90%, and WVP values close to or in the recommended range for wound dressing commercial products. Moreover, the presence of HC results in samples with a less crystalline structure. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report in which PVA and HC membranes are successfully synthesized by electrospinning and physicochemically characterized.
All‐gel‐state supercapacitors of polypyrrole reinforced with graphene nanoplatelets
Authors: Lima Ravi Moreno Araújo Pinheiro , de Oliveira Helinando Pequeno
Published: June 2021

The development of supramolecular structures (conducting hydrogels) obtained from the charge–charge interaction of sodium dodecyl sulfate micelles and oppositely charged polypyrrole chains represents an important step to obtain self‐supported and flexible electrodes for supercapacitors. Herein, the energy density of polypyrrole hydrogel‐based supercapacitors is enhanced by the incorporation of graphene nanoplatelets that introduced the electrical double capacitance contribution to the overall response. The electrochemical performance of synthesized electrodes was optimized from the relative variation in the concentration of supramolecular arrangements (micelles of sodium dodecyl sulfate), pyrrole, and graphene nanoplatelets. As result, higher capacitive retention is observed for modified electrodes (with the incorporation of graphene) – in order of 90% after 1000 cycles of use, preserving the high conductivity and intrinsic mechanical properties (flexibility and stretchability) reaching an areal capacitance of 210.7 mFcm−2.
Zein‐based microcapsule for vanillin sustained release
Authors: Xu Qunna , Qiu Ruijie , Bai Zhongxue , Ma Jianzhong , Fan Qianqian , Li Yun , Taha Siddiqui , Ramzan Zaki , Li Jiaojiao
Published: June 2021

Currently, microcapsules are attracting great attention and becoming more and more widely used in sustained release system. In this research, zein‐based microcapsules were prepared by anti‐solvent precipitation technology and spray drying. The properties of as‐prepared microcapsules were optimized by adjusting the reaction conditions and parameters such as the mass ratio of zein to vanillin, the drying temperature and whether polyethylene glycol was added or not. Meanwhile, the morphologies, chemical structures, and application performances of microcapsules were characterized and determined by SEM, FT‐IR, TG, and so on. The results showed that the morphology of as‐obtained microcapsules was a regular spherical shape with no cracks when the mass ratio of zein to vanillin was 1:1, the inlet temperature was 120 C and the polyethylene glycol was introduced. Meanwhile, it was also proved that the polyethylene glycol has a positive effect on the encapsulation efficiency in microcapsules. Moreover, zein microcapsules can effectively improve the thermal stability and release behavior of vanillin, meanwhile the exist of polyethylene glycol can further improve the properties of zein microcapsules. This research provided guidelines for the study of microcapsules.
Performances of novel poly(diaryloxyphosphazene) based heat shielding materials with various fibrous reinforcements
Authors: Wu Jian , Zhang Shuangkun , Basharat Majid , Liu Wei , Dai Shaotao , Zhang Teng , Wu Zhanpeng
Published: June 2021

Elastomeric heat shielding materials (EHSMs) are necessary to protect combustion chambers of solid rocket motors during their working. Poly(diaryloxyphosphazene) (PDPP) elastomers own inherent thermal stability and flame retardancy because the backbone of alternating phosphorus and nitrogen atoms can be a novel promising polymer matrix toward EHSMs. The present study deals with the development of a novel PDPP based EHSMs with several different fibrous reinforcements, including Kevlar, polyimide, and carbon short fibers. It is found that PDPP/Kevlar composites show outstanding tensile strength and ablation resistance because of their strong interfacial bonding between matrix and fibers which benefits from the possible network of intermolecular hydrogen bonds. PDPP/carbon composites produce a compact charred layer due to their high char yields of carbon fibers. These results improve the understanding of the role of polyphosphazenes with different kinds of fibers on ablation mechanisms, which enable the possibility to exploit intrinsic properties of polyphosphazenes.
An intrinsic flame retardant epoxy resin with high transparency and strengthened mechanical property
Authors: Pang Fu‐Qu , Liu Xin‐Duo , Zheng Xian‐Ting , Lin Yu‐Cai , Jian Rong‐Kun
Published: June 2021

In order to search for multifunctional epoxy thermosets (EP) with low flammability, high transparency and satisfied mechanical performance, DOPO‐based phosphonate ammonium salt (DOA) was synthesized from 10‐hydroxy‐9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oza‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO‐OH) and 2‐amino‐2‐methyl‐1,3‐propanediol (AMPD). Under the influence of DOA, the flame‐retardant and mechanical performances of the resulting EP were obviously improved. On account of the enhanced interaction and the incorporated flexible fragments in epoxy macromolecular chains, the tensile strength, elongation at break, and impact toughness of EP/5.0 wt% DOA significantly increased from 65.4 ± 1.2 MPa, 6.7 ± 0.6%, and 12.1 ± 1.3 kJ m−2 of EP to 81.4 ± 2.8 MPa, 10.6 ± 0.5%, and 18.0 ± 1.1 kJ m−2, respectively. In the presence of DOA, the limiting oxygen index (LOI) value of EP/5.0 wt% DOA increased to 35.5% and it passed the underwriter laboratories‐94 vertical burning tests (UL‐94 V) and got a V‐1 rating. Moreover, the peak value of heat release rate (PHRR) was decreased by 38.0%. The analyses of char residues and volatile products showed that the activities of DOA on reducing the flammability of EP were ascribed to the protective effect of the char, the release of incombustible gases, and the radical‐capture action of phosphorus‐containing free radicals. Moreover, the modified epoxy thermosets still retained a high transparency.
Gold/ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene nanocomposites for electrical energy storage: Enhanced recovery efficiency upon uniaxial deformation
Authors: Drakopoulos Stavros X. , Manika Georgia C. , Nogales Aurora , Kim Taeyong , Robbins Andrew B. , Claudio Gianfranco , Minnich Austin J. , Ezquerra Tiberio A. , Psarras Georgios C. , Martin‐Fabiani Ignacio , Ronca Sara
Published: June 2021

The growing demand for renewable energy sources has prompted the development of dielectric materials with the ability to store and efficiently recover electrical energy. Here, we correlate the structure and thermal conductivity of uniaxially oriented disentangled ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (dis‐UHMWPE) composites reinforced with gold nanoparticles with their electrical properties and potential application as electrical energy storage devices. Stretching increases the orientation of the polymer chains and thus the crystallinity and reduces the aggregation of gold nanoparticles while the thermal conductivity enhances significantly along the orientation axis. The structural changes driven by stretching result in two competing effects; on the one hand, the crystallinity increase reduces the permittivity of the composites and increases the resistivity, while on the other hand the recovery efficiency of oriented materials excels that of unstretched samples by up to 6 times at 5 s. Therefore, our work shows the structure–property relationship in electrical energy storage materials.
Magnetic prospection at Aistra (Álava) and Peña Amaya (Burgos): Towards a new diagnostic paradigm for early mediaeval Iberia
Authors: Quirós Juan Antonio , Campana Stefano , Saito Ken
Published: June 2021

This article discusses the application and implications of magnetic prospection within two complex early mediaeval sites of the 5th–10th centuries BCE in northern Spain, at Aistra and Peña Amaya in the Upper Ebro Valley. In this period most sites displaying domestic and other forms of occupation present multifaceted and challenging problems due to the poor preservation of stratigraphic relationships in rural contexts and rarity and poor visibility of early mediaeval horizons in multi‐period urban sites. It is now widely acknowledged that extensive magnetic prospection, both in rural areas and in abandoned townscapes, can on a variety of sites facilitate the identification of domestic settlements, productive areas and monumental structures as well as the patterns of former roads, trackways and field boundaries. The two sites described here were selected to test this approach in the particular environment of the Ebro Valley and to draw any resulting conclusions about early mediaeval settlement in the area.
How do makers obtain information for their makerspace projects?
Authors: Einarsson Árni Már , Hertzum Morten
Published: June 2021

Makerspaces are places for construction and creative expression using tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and sewing machines. In this study, we investigate how makers obtain information for their makerspace projects. The study focuses on four sources of information: people, documents, experimentation, and prior knowledge. On the basis of interviews with 13 makers, we analyze their use of these information sources in relation to different knowledge areas, creative‐process stages, and relevance criteria. Our main findings are that (a) experimentation is a prime source of information, (b) ease and pleasure are the dominant relevance criteria, (c) process and situation receive little attention, and (d) information sources vary across process stages. Specifically, experimentation is the dominant information source during the construction stage. In addition, the relevance criteria show that the makers turn to people because it is pleasurable, to documents because it is easy, and to experimentation because it results in quality products. These results emphasize the importance of experimentation and suggest that it warrants closer attention in studies of the information behavior of makers and, more broadly, creative professionals.
Risperidone versus aripiprazole fracture risk in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Houghton Richard , van den Bergh Joop , Law Kiely , Liu Yutong , de Vries Frank
Published: June 2021

Risperidone and aripiprazole, commonly used antipsychotics in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), have previously been associated with elevated fracture risk in other populations. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the risk of fracture among children with ASD using risperidone or aripiprazole. This was a retrospective, propensity‐score matched cohort study, set between January 2013 and December 2018. We used the MarketScan Medicaid insurance data, which covers multiple states of the United States. We included ASD children aged 2–18 years, who were new users of aripiprazole or risperidone and with no prior history of antipsychotic use or fractures. The main exposure was the continued use of aripiprazole or risperidone. The incidence rates of any fracture during follow‐up were evaluated, and the risk between aripiprazole and risperidone was compared via Cox‐proportional hazard models. Results were stratified by age, sex, duration of exposure and fracture site. In total, 3312 patients (78% male; mean [SD] age 11.0 [3.7] years) were identified for each cohort. Over the full duration of follow‐up, fracture incidence rates per 1000 patient‐years were 23.2 for risperidone and 38.4 for aripiprazole (hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval: 0.60 [0.44–0.83]). Risks were similar between cohorts throughout the first 180 days on treatment, but significantly higher in the aripiprazole group thereafter. Extremity fractures drove most of the increased risk, with the biggest differences in lower leg and ankle fractures. Differences widened for children aged 10 years or younger (HR [95% CI]: 0.47 [0.30–0.74]). In conclusion, compared to aripiprazole, risperidone was associated with 40% lower risk of fracture. Further analysis on the mechanism and long‐term bone health of antipsychotic‐treated children with ASD is warranted.

Lay summary

We compared the risk of bone fractures among 6624 children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), half of whom used risperidone and half of whom used aripiprazole. Taking other factors into account, risks were similar between the two groups throughout the first 180 days on treatment, but significantly higher in the aripiprazole group thereafter. The biggest differences were in lower leg and ankle fractures. Overall, compared with aripiprazole, risperidone was associated with 40% lower risk of fracture.
Geometrische Bewertung und Optimierung der Modulanordnung in Tragwerken – Ein Beitrag zur adaptiven Fertigung im Bauwesen
Authors: Frey Alex Maximilian , Stindt Jan , Lanza Gisela , Mark Peter
Published: June 2021

Die adaptive Fertigung von Fertigbetonbauteilen für modulare Tragwerke birgt das Potenzial, Ausschuss und Nacharbeit zu reduzieren. Bei diesem Ansatz wird der Fertigungsprozess auf Basis der Geometrien bereits gefertigter Module iterativ angepasst, sodass sich Maßabweichungen im Gesamttragwerk bestmöglich kompensieren. Im vorliegenden Aufsatz wird untersucht, wie eine solche Kompensation durch gezielte Anordnung der Module in modularen Tragwerken erfolgen kann. Hierzu wird zunächst ein Maß entwickelt, um modulare Tragwerke unter Berücksichtigung der Kompensation von Maßabweichungen geometrisch zu bewerten. Anschließend wird darauf aufbauend ein Optimierungsmodell vorgestellt, mit dem eine optimale Anordnung von Modulen mit gegebenen Maßabweichungen berechnet werden kann. Hiermit werden optimale Lösungen für ausgewählte Fälle betrachtet, um hieraus einen allgemeingültigen Zusammenhang zwischen den Geometrien der einzelnen Bauteile und der geometrischen Bewertung des resultierenden Tragwerks herzustellen. Diese Erkenntnisse dienen als Grundlage für eine adaptive Fertigung.
Hydrothermal gasification of Scenedesmus obliquus and its derivatives: a thermodynamic study using Aspen Plus
Authors: Mustapha Sherif Ishola , Mohammed Usman Aliyu , Bux Faizal , Isa Yusuf Makarfi
Published: June 2021

This study presents the simulation of hydrothermal gasification (HTG) of Scenedesmus obliquus microalgae and their derivatives using Aspen Plus V11. The effect of operating parameters such as temperature, pressure, and biomass concentration on the yield and composition of gaseous products using whole algae, lipid, and lipid extracted algae (LEA) as feedstocks was examined. The results showed that reaction pressure exhibited minimal impact whereas temperature, biomass concentration, and feedstock composition had significant effects on the composition of gaseous products. It was also found that a low temperature (400 °C) and biomass concentration of 40 wt% favored the production of methane‐rich gas. In contrast, high temperature (700 °C) and low biomass concentration (10 wt%) favored hydrogen‐rich gas production in all the three feedstocks considered. The highest mole fraction achieved for CH4 was 53.45, 61.70, and 52.20 mol%, which corresponded to a CH4 yield of 31.14, 56.90, and 30.15 mmol g−1 for whole algae, lipid, and LEA respectively. For H2 rich gas production, the highest mole fractions achieved were 55.77, 52.29, and 55.34 mol%, which correspond to H2 yields of 75.44, 105.51, and 73.49 mmol g−1 for whole algae, lipids, and LEA, respectively. The ranking order for the yield and lower heating value of the product gas from the HTG process is lipid > whole algae > LEA. This study has shown that hydrogen‐rich and methane‐rich gas can be produced from the hydrothermal gasification of microalgae as a function of the reaction conditions and feedstock composition. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd