bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conversational Strategies Used by Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner at The New York Times DealBook Conference
Authors: Jevida Michelle , Kuntjara Esther Harijanti
Published: January 2024

This study analyzed the conversational strategies of Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner at The New York Times conference, focusing on their business-related discussions and exploring similarities and differences based on age and status. Following Coates' (2013) theory, seven strategy aspects were examined: minimal responses, hedges, tag questions, questions, commands and directives, swearing and taboo languages, and compliments. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, the study identified the strategies employed by each speaker. Kim Kardashian used five strategies, while Kris Jenner used six. Overall, the findings indicated more similarity than difference in their conversational strategies, suggesting there are influences from context, status, and age.
Impoliteness Strategies Used by the Baroness in the Movie Cruella
Authors: Tandiono Alicia , Tjitrakusuma Nani Indrajani
Published: January 2024

This study aims to find out the types of impoliteness strategies and the similarities and differences of the impoliteness strategies used by the Baroness, an antagonistic character with an impressive background, toward Estella and Cruella in the movie Cruella. The theoretical framework used is Culpeper’s (1996, 2005) and Bousfield’s (2008) impoliteness strategy. This study employed a qualitative approach. The writers collected and analyzed the Baroness’ utterances to her subordinate, Estella, and to her business rival, Cruella, during the business scenes. The Baroness used all six types of impoliteness strategies to Estella, namely: bald on record impoliteness, positive impoliteness, negative impoliteness, sarcasm/mock politeness, withhold politeness, and off-record impoliteness. On the contrary, the Baroness only used four out of six types of impoliteness strategies to Cruella, specifically excluding: negative impoliteness and withhold politeness. The Baroness’ background and personality, as well as the interlocutor’s own background, might have influenced the findings of the study.
Types of Code Mixing Used by Iman Usman and Faisal Basri in Gita Wirjawan’s Endgame
Authors: Indrawan Donny , Tedjaatmadja Herwindy Maria
Published: January 2024

This study was conducted to analyze the code-mixing types used by Iman Usman as a young adulthood resource person and Faisal Basri as a middle adulthood resource person in Gita Wirjawan’s Endgame, as well as the similarities and differences between the code mixing types used by both respondents. The writers used the theory of code-mixing types by Muysken (2000) and employed a qualitative approach. The findings of this study revealed that both used all the code-mixing types: insertion, alternation, and congruent lexicalization. Content words were also widely found and both Iman Usman and Faisal Basri repeatedly applied the code-mixing with possessed content word (nouns, verbs, adjectives, or adverbs). Moreover, age factor did really affect Iman Usman and Faisal Basri when using code-mixing in their conversation with Gita Wirjawan. Iman Usman used code mixing more often than Faisal Basri.
Impoliteness Strategies Used by White Males and Females toward the Black Staff in The Hidden Figures Movie
Authors: Catriona Aveline
Published: January 2024

This qualitative research was done to find the types of impoliteness strategies used by the white characters in the Hidden Figures movie (Al Harisson, Paul Stafford, Vivian Mitchell, and Ruth), and how the recipient of impoliteness, Katherine Johnson (a black character), responded to it. The main theory used is Culpeper's (1996, 2003) impoliteness strategy and Bousfield’s (2008) responses to impoliteness. The findings revealed that not every impoliteness strategy was produced by the characters. The one strategy that was not produced is withhold politenessbecause there were no such silent scenes in the movie. Besides withhold politeness, every type of impoliteness strategy was produced in the Hidden Figures movie. In addition, Katherine Johnson produced two types of responses to Al Harisson and Paul Stafford: accepting face attack and countering face attack. While responding to Vivian Mitchell and Ruth, Katherine Johnson only produced one type of response: accepting face attack. In conclusion, in this research impoliteness strategies and the responses were used in the Hidden Figures movie. In addition, impoliteness could occur due to job status and race factor.
Powerful Women in Anggy Umbara’s Web Series: Layangan Putus
Authors: Wiliana Devi Crisilia Amabel
Published: January 2024

Layangan Putus is a web series adapted from a novel by Drh. Eka Nur Prasetya. In this article, I am analyzing this series because there is a hidden gem in these five female characters, which shows their power to fight for their rights and happiness. For that, I am interested in analyzing their power and what consequences they receive. In my analysis, I use the girl power theory based on the descriptions by Zaslow (2017), Inness (2004), and Bettis & Addams (2005) on girl power, which is independent, smart, and assertive. I analyze the way these five female characters exercise their power by being independent, smart, and assertive. As the consequences of exercising their power, they experience positive and negative results. For the positive result, they get what they want in life such as individual freedom, and for the negative one, they have to sacrifice important things such as their feelings, and personal relationships. In conclusion, in exercising their power, they gain self-growth and self-discovery.
Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists and Pancreatic Cancer Risk in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Dankner Rachel , Murad Havi , Agay Nirit , Olmer Liraz , Freedman Laurence S.
Published: January 2024

Importance

Concerns have been raised that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Objective

To investigate the association of GLP-1RA treatment with pancreatic cancer incidence over 9 years of follow-up.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this population-based historical cohort study, adult patients (aged 21 to 89 years) with type 2 diabetes insured by Clalit Healthcare Services, the largest state-mandated health organization in Israel, were followed up from 2009, when GLP-1RA became available in Israel, until pancreatic cancer diagnosis, death, reaching age 90 years, or end of follow-up (December 2017). Data were analyzed from June 2022 to November 2023.

Exposures

Treatment with GLP-1RA was compared with basal insulin.

Main Outcome and Measures

Pancreatic cancer incidence was compared according to weighted cumulative exposures to GLP-1RA and to basal insulin in a Cox model implemented in discrete time, with time origin at 2 years after diabetes diagnosis, adjusting for confounding. In sensitivity analyses, propensity score–matched pair new-user design and prevalent new-user design were used for the comparison. Because of risk for reverse-causation bias, results in the fifth to seventh year after medication were emphasized.

Results

During a cumulative follow-up of 3 290 439 person-years of 543 595 adults with a mean (SD) age of 59.9 (12.8) years (277 502 women [51%]) with incident diabetes, 1665 patients received pancreatic cancer diagnoses. In total, 33 377 patients (6.1%) used GLP-1RA and 106 849 (19.7%) used basal insulin. The estimated hazard ratio (HR) for pancreatic cancer associated with incremental use of 1 defined daily dose per day of GLP-1RA compared with basal insulin in the fifth to seventh year previously (all other characteristics, including age, sex, ethnic background, sociodemographic status, baseline body mass index, smoking history, history of pancreatitis, other glucose-lowering medications treatment history, and length of diabetes, being equal) was 0.50 (95% CI, 0.15-1.71). The new-user and prevalent new-user designs showed HRs from the fifth year onwards following initiation of GLP-1RA vs basal insulin of 0.52 (95 % CI, 0.19-1.41) and 0.75 (95 % CI, 0.37-1.53), respectively.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this historical cohort study of adults with type 2 diabetes, no support for an increased pancreatic cancer incidence over 7 years following start of GLP-1RA treatment was found. However, monitoring for pancreatic cancer risk beyond 7 years following initiation of therapy is still required.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02072902
Consideration of needs and elements of residents' room signs in group homes for the elderly with dementia: Research on the systematic construction of an environment with non‐pharmacological therapy using signs Part 1
Authors: Mizuno Yusuke , Ito Shuko , Yamazaki Satoru , Katsumata Hideaki
Published: January 2024

This study provides an understanding of the needs for signs identifying rooms shown in group homes for the elderly with dementia (residents' room signs) and reveals the elements for planning. The purpose of staff displaying residents' room signs is to support residents with dementia returning to their own rooms by themselves. It is appropriate for the display contents shown on the residents' room signs to be displayed with the name of the resident approximately 30 to 50 mm. The appropriate display location is near the door handle at a height of approximately 1200 to 1400 mm.
Enhancing Electrical and Mechanical Properties of Conductive Textile for Wearable Embedded Systems Through Copper Electroplating
Authors: Gaubert Valentin , Yendigoyeva Aizhan , Muniraj Vedi Kuyil Azhagan , Boddaert Xavier , Djenizian Thierry , Delattre Roger
Published: January 2024

Wearable electronics, particularly electronic textiles, hold promise for significant advancements, yet their limited electrical conductivity hinders widespread application. This study examines the application of copper electrodeposition to enhance the electromechanical attributes of textronics. The conductive fabric undergoes copper electroplating for varying durations, assessing the increase in electrical conductivity relative to copper thickness. Experimental conditions span current densities from 0.2 to 20 A dm−2. Additionally, the research evaluates the mechanical resistance of the resulting interconnection with conventional electronic components. Voltammetric measurements, sheet resistance, and microscope observations establish optimal copper deposition conditions. As hypothesized, an inverse proportionality between the sheet resistance of the electrodeposited fabric and the thickness of the copper layer has been observed. This improvement raises a query: does the electromechanical reliability of e‐textiles improve with the addition of only a few micrometers of copper? The study reveals the significant enhancement of the mechanical resistance of soldered interconnections with rigid components after a few seconds of electrodeposition as well as an improvement of the quality factor of a textile antenna. In conclusion, electroplating significantly improves the electromechanical properties of textronics without compromising their wearability. This discovery paves the way for novel applications such as wireless fast charging with textile antennas.
Competitive Coordination of Ternary Anions Enabling Fast Li‐Ion Desolvation for Low‐Temperature Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Liang Ping , Hu Honglu , Dong Yang , Wang Zhaodong , Liu Kuiming , Ding Guoyu , Cheng Fangyi
Published: January 2024

Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) working at subzero temperatures are plagued by severe restrictions from the increased energy barrier of Li‐ion migration and desolvation. Herein, a competitive coordination strategy based on the ternary‐anion (TA) coupling of PF6−, TFSI−, and NO3− toward Li+ to achieve an anti‐freezing electrolyte with rapid kinetics is proposed. Computational and spectroscopic analyses reveal that the repulsive interaction among three anions and the preponderant coordination of the Li+‐NO3− further weaken the involvement degree of other anions in the Li+ solvation structure. As a result, the formulated TA electrolyte exhibits low binding energy of Li+‐anions (−4.62 eV), Li+ desolvation energy (17.04 kJ mol−1), and high ionic conductivity (3.39 mS cm−1 at −60 °C), simultaneously promoting anion‐derived solid electrolyte interphase on Li anode. Assembled Li||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cells employing the TA electrolyte exhibit robust capacity retention of 86.74% over 200 cycles at 25 °C and deliver a specific cathode capacity of 103.85 mAh g−1 at −60 °C. This study will enlighten the rational design of multi‐anion electrolytes to tailor the Li+ solvation/desolvation for advanced low‐temperature LMBs.
Advanced Hydrogel Material for Meniscus Repair
Authors: Li Chao , Deng Ronghui , Yang Meng , Yuan Fuzhen , Zhang Chong , Yu Jiakuo
Published: January 2024

The foundation of regenerative medicine is the investigation and progression of hypotheses and approaches for substituting, mending, reconstructing, or regenerating different tissues and organs within the human body. Nevertheless, due to the slender central segment and the entire unattached configuration of the meniscus, the efficacy of conventional therapies is unsatisfactory in reinstating meniscal health and functionality. To overcome these limitations, medical‐type hydrogels have the potential to provide a solution for meniscus repair and regeneration. Their biocompatibility and modifiability enable safe implantations in vivo, effectively modifying the pathophysiology of cells and the surrounding microenvironment at the site of meniscal injury. This article reviews the usage of different implantable medical‐type hydrogels in meniscal regeneration and repair. First, the structure and physiologic function of the meniscus are first briefly described. Following this, the use of varying hydrogels in meniscus repair is highlighted, alongside a discussion of different materials employed in constructing hydrogel implants. Lastly, an analysis of the issues and challenges associated with hydrogels in meniscus repair is presented.
Ion Concentration Polarization Tunes Interpore Interactions and Transport Properties of Nanopore Arrays
Authors: Cao Ethan , Cain DaVante , Silva Savannah , Siwy Zuzanna S.
Published: January 2024

Biological processes require concerted function of many channels embedded in the cell membrane. While single solid‐state nanopores are already designed to mimic properties of individual biological channels, it is not yet known how to connect the pores to achieve biomimetic ionic circuits with interacting components. To identify fundamental processes that control interactions between nanopores embedded in the same membrane, a model system of minimal arrays consisting of two and three nanopores in silicon nitride films is designed. The constituent nanopores have an opening diameter <10 nm, and the interpore spacing is tuned between 15 and 200 nm. The experimental and modeling results reveal that nanopores in an array interact with each other via overlapping depletion zones created by the process of concentration polarization. The interactions can be further controlled by salt concentration and voltage. These results showcase a possibility of tuning interactions between nanopores and transport properties of arrays by chemical modification of the pore walls. Arrays consisting of nanoporous ionic diodes feature depletion zones with higher concentrations, and lower current suppression than homogeneously charged pores. These experiments and modeling provide the first steps to leave the constraints of single nanopores and to design biomimetic ionic circuits.
Topological Conversion of Nickel Foams to Monolithic Single‐Atom Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Hai , Tang Tongyu , Wang Hao‐Fan , Wang Hongjuan , Cao Yonghai , Yu Hao
Published: January 2024

Single‐atom catalysts have emerged as a promising class of catalysts due to their tailored coordination environments on the support, which can improve a variety of catalytic reactions, making them a highly desirable research subject in materials science with significant potential for industrial applications. However, traditional synthesis methods mainly obtain low‐yield powder catalysts without macroscopic mechanical strength, and also require tedious procedures, limiting their practicability. Here, monolithic carbon fibers are prepared with single atomic Ni sites directly from bulk metal. The synchronous support growth and metal diffusion realizes the effective atomization of nickel foam, and the innovative strategy of topological growth within a confined space results in robust and tough monolith. The application of this single‐atom‐monolith is demonstrated as a free‐standing electrode for highly efficient electrochemical CO2 reduction. The proposed synthesis strategy allows feasible preparation of functional single‐atom catalysts for potential industrial applications with advantages of using low‐cost raw materials, enabling large‐scale production, and providing processable, moldable monolithic materials.
Volatile Solid‐Assisted Molecular Assembly Enables Eco‐Friendly Processed Organic Photovoltaic Cells with High Efficiency and Photostability
Authors: Xu Lei , Xiong Yaomeng , Li Sunsun , Zhao Wenchao , Zhang Jianqi , Miao Chunyang , Zhang Yuyang , Zhang Tao , Wu Junjiang , Zhang Shaoqing , Peng Qiming , Wang Zhen , Ye Long , Hou Jianhui , Wang Jianpu
Published: January 2024

Achieving environmentally friendly solvent‐processed high‐performance organic photovoltaic cells (OPVs) is a crucial step toward their commercialization. Currently, OPVs with competitive efficiencies rely heavily on harmful halogenated solvent additives. Herein, the green and low‐cost 9‐fluorenone (9‐FL) is employed as a solid additive. By using the o‐xylene/9‐FL solvent system, the PM6:BTP‐eC9‐based devices deliver power‐conversion efficiencies of 18.6% and 17.9% via spin‐coating and blade‐coating respectively, outperforming all PM6:Y‐series binary devices with green solvents. It is found that the addition of 9‐FL can regulate the molecular assembly of both PM6 and BTP‐eC9 in film‐formation (molecule‐level mixing) and post‐annealing (thermal‐assisted molecular reorganization with additive volatilization) stages, so as to optimize the blend morphology. As a result, the charge transport ability of donor and acceptor phases are simultaneously enhanced, and the trap‐assisted recombination is reduced, which contributes to the higher short‐circuit current density and fill factor. Moreover, the generation of photo‐induced traps is significantly suppressed, resulting in improved stability under illumination. It is further demonstrated the excellent universality of 9‐FL in various photoactive systems, making it a promising strategy to advance the development of eco‐friendly OPVs.
Synthetic Polymer Nanoparticles as an Abiotic Artificial Inhibitor of Tyrosinase
Authors: Zhang Tong , Li Yuan , Guo Jing , Sun Weiliang , Lv Yongqin
Published: January 2024

An innovative methodology is presented for synthesizing synthetic polymer nanoparticles (TINPs) as potent tyrosinase inhibitors. This inhibition strategy combines the integration of two distinct functionalities, phenol, and phenylboronic acid, within the TINPs structure. The phenyl group mimics the natural monophenol substrate, forming a strong coordination with the catalytic copper ion, significantly inhibiting tyrosinase activity. Additionally, phenylboronic acid interacts with catechol, another tyrosinase substrate, further reducing enzyme efficiency. The shared benzene ring in phenyl and phenylboronic acid enhances binding to tyrosinase's hydrophobic pocket near its copper active site, contributing to potent inhibition. TINPs exhibit exceptional performance, boasting an impressive IC50 value of 3.5×10−8 m and an inhibition constant of 9.8×10−9 m. Validation of the approach is unequivocally demonstrated through the successful inhibition of tyrosinase activity and melanin production, substantiated in both in vitro and in vivo scenarios. The mechanism of TINP inhibition is elucidated through circular dichroism and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. This study introduces a versatile design approach for developing abiotic polymer‐based enzyme inhibitors, expanding possibilities in enzyme inhibition research.
Ultrasensitive Optical Detection and Elimination of Residual Microtumors with a Postoperative Implantable Hydrogel Sensor for Preventing Cancer Recurrence
Authors: Geng Shizhen , Guo Pengke , Wang Jing , Zhang Yunya , Shi Yaru , Li Xinling , Cao Mengnian , Song Yutong , Zhang Hongling , Zhang Zhenzhong , Zhang Kaixiang , Song Haiwei , Shi Jinjin , Liu Junjie
Published: January 2024

In vivo optical imaging of trace biomarkers in residual microtumors holds significant promise for cancer prognosis but poses a formidable challenge. Here, a novel hydrogel sensor is designed for ultrasensitive and specific imaging of the elusive biomarker. This hydrogel sensor seamlessly integrates a molecular beacon nanoprobe with fibroblasts, offering both high tissue retention capability and an impressive signal‐to‐noise ratio for imaging. Signal amplification is accomplished through exonuclease I‐mediated biomarker recycling. The resulting hydrogel sensor sensitively detects the biomarker carcinoembryonic antigen with a detection limit of 1.8 pg mL−1 in test tubes. Moreover, it successfully identifies residual cancer nodules with a median diameter of less than 2 mm in mice bearing partially removed primary triple‐negative breast carcinomas (4T1). Notably, this hydrogel sensor is proven effective for the sensitive diagnosis of invasive tumors in post‐surgical mice with infiltrating 4T1 cells, leveraging the role of fibroblasts in locally enriching tumor cells. Furthermore, the residual microtumor is rapidly photothermal ablation by polydopamine‐based nanoprobe under the guidance of visualization, achieving ≈100% suppression of tumor recurrence and lung metastasis. This work offers a promising alternative strategy for visually detecting residual microtumors, potentially enhancing the prognosis of cancer patients following surgical interventions.
Validating Operating Stability and Biocompatibility Toward Safer Zinc‐Based Batteries
Authors: Liu Zhexuan , Chen Zhizhao , Lei Shaorong , Lu Bingan , Liang Shuquan , Li Jingjing , Zhou Jiang
Published: January 2024

Wearable and implantable electronics are standing at the frontiers of science and technology, driven by the increasing demands from modernized lifestyles. Zinc‐based batteries (ZBs) are regarded as ideal energy suppliers for these biocompatible electronics, but the corresponding biocompatibility validation is still in the initial stage. Meanwhile, complicated working conditions and some extreme electrolyte environments raise strict challenges, leaving less choices for safe ZBs. Toward higher operating stability and biocompatibility, this work proposes a hydrogel electrolyte featuring the moisture maintaining ability and a robust interface, which could further provide a milder environment for Zn‐MnO2 batteries and Zn‐air batteries. The cytotoxicity and tissue injury of batteries are evaluated with human cell lines and battery implantations on the animal models, which demonstrate the high biocompatibility of ZBs, while preliminary wearable devices implementation further verifies their operating stability. This work may provide a pathway for developing and validating biocompatible ZBs, contributing to their future practical employment in relevant fields.
Data‐Driven Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact Solar Cell Performance Analysis Using Machine Learning
Authors: Zhou Jiakai , Jacobsson T. Jesper , Wang Zhi , Huang Qian , Zhang Xiaodan , Zhao Ying , Hou Guofu
Published: January 2024

Tunnel oxide passivated contacts (TOPCon) have gained interest as a way to increase the energy conversion efficiency of silicon solar cells, and the International Technology Roadmap of Photovoltaics forecasts TOPCon to become an important technology despite a few remaining challenges. To review the recent development of TOPCon cells, this work has compiled a dataset of all device data found in current literature, which sums up to 405 devices from 131 papers. This may seem like a surprisingly small number of cells given the recent interest in the TOPCon architecture, but it illustrates a problem of data dissemination in the field. Notwithstanding the limited number of cells, there is a great diversity in cell manufacturing procedures, and this work observes a gradual increase in performance indicating that the field has not yet converged on a set of best practices. By analyzing the data using statistical methods and machine learning (ML) algorithms, this work is able to reinforces some commonly held hypotheses related to the performance differences between different device architectures. This work also identifies a few more unintuitive feature combinations that would be of interest for further experimentally studies. This work also aims to inspire improvements in data management and dissemination within the TOPCon community.
Anode‐Free Sodium Metal Pouch Cell Using Cu3P Nanowires In Situ Grown on Current Collector
Authors: Zhang Wu , Zheng Jiale , Ren Ziang , Wang Juncheng , Luo Jianmin , Wang Yao , Tao Xinyong , Liu Tiefeng
Published: January 2024

Anode‐free sodium metal battery (AFSMB) promises high energy density but suffers from the difficulty of maintaining high cycling stability. Nonuniform sodium (Na) deposition on the current collector is largely responsible for capacity decay in the cycling process of AFSMB. Here, a unique copper phosphide (Cu3P) nanowire is constructed on copper (Cu3P@Cu) as a sodium deposition substrate by an in situ growth method. Superior electrochemical performance of Cu3P@Cu anode is delivered in asymmetric cells with an average Coulombic efficiency of 99.8% for over 800 cycles at 1 mA cm−2 with 1 mA h cm−2. The symmetric cell of Cu3P@Cu displayed a cycling lifespan of over 2000 h at 2 mA cm−2 with 1 mA h cm−2. Cryo‐transmission electron microscope characterization and first principles calculation revealed that the low Na+ absorption energy and low Na+ diffusion energy barrier on Na3P promoted uniform Na nucleation and deposition, thus enhancing the Na surface stability. Moreover, anode‐free Na3V2(PO4)3//Cu3P@Cu full pouch cell delivered a considerable cycling capacity of ≈15 mA h in 170 cycles, demonstrating its practical feasibility.
High‐Throughput Strategies in the Discovery of Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Deng Tingting , Qiu Pengfei , Yin Tingwei , Li Ze , Yang Jiong , Wei Tianran , Shi Xun
Published: January 2024

Searching for new high‐performance thermoelectric (TE) materials that are economical and environmentally friendly is an urgent task for TE society, but the advancements are greatly limited by the time‐consuming and high cost of the traditional trial‐and‐error method. The significant progress achieved in the computing hardware, efficient computing methods, advance artificial intelligence algorithms, and rapidly growing material data have brought a paradigm shift in the investigation of TE materials. Many electrical and thermal performance descriptors are proposed and efficient high‐throughput (HTP) calculation methods are developed with the purpose to quickly screen new potential TE materials from the material databases. Some HTP experiment methods are also developed which can increase the density of information obtained in a single experiment with less time and lower cost. In addition, machine learning (ML) methods are also introduced in thermoelectrics. In this review, the HTP strategies in the discovery of TE materials are systematically summarized. The applications of performance descriptor, HTP calculation, HTP experiment, and ML in the discovery of new TE materials are reviewed. In addition, the challenges and possible directions in future research are also discussed.
Biomimetic Self‐Maturation Mineralization System for Enamel Repair
Authors: Lei Chen , Wang Kai‐yan , Ma Yu‐xuan , Hao Dong‐xiao , Zhu Yi‐na , Wan Qian‐qian , Zhang Jiang‐shan , Tay Franklin R , Mu Zhao , Niu Li‐na
Published: January 2024

Enamel repair is crucial for restoring tooth function and halting dental caries. However, contemporary research often overlooks the retention of organic residues within the repair layer, which hinders the growth of dense crystals and compromises the properties of the repaired enamel. During the maturation of natural enamel, the organic matrix undergoes enzymatic processing to facilitate further crystal growth, resulting in a highly mineralized tissue. Inspired by this process, a biomimetic self‐maturation mineralization system is developed, comprising ribonucleic acid‐stabilized amorphous calcium phosphate (RNA‐ACP) and ribonuclease (RNase). The RNA‐ACP induces initial mineralization in the form of epitaxial crystal growth, while the RNase present in saliva automatically triggers a biomimetic self‐maturation process. The mechanistic study further indicates that RNA degradation prompts conformational rearrangement of the RNA‐ACP, effectively excluding the organic matter introduced earlier. This exclusion process promotes lateral crystal growth, resulting in the generation of denser enamel‐like apatite crystals that are devoid of organic residues. This strategy of eliminating organic residues from enamel crystals enhances the mechanical and physiochemical properties of the repaired enamel. The present study introduces a conceptual biomimetic mineralization strategy for effective enamel repair in clinical practice and offers potential insights into the mechanisms of biomineral formation.
A Monodisperse, End‐Capped Ru(bda) Oligomer with Outstanding Performance in Heterogeneous Electrochemical Water Oxidation
Authors: Schneider Tilman , Seebauer Florian , Beuerle Florian , Würthner Frank
Published: January 2024

Water oxidation catalysis is a key step for sustainable fuel production by water splitting into hydrogen and oxygen. The synthesis of a novel coordination oligomer based on four Ru(bda) (bda = 2,2′‐bipyridine‐6,6′‐dicarboxylate) centers, three 4,4′‐bipyridine (4,4′‐bpy) linkers, and two 4‐picoline (4‐pic) end caps is reported. The monodispersity of this tetranuclear compound is characterized by NMR techniques. Heterogeneous electrochemical water oxidation after immobilization on multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) shows catalytic performance unprecedented for this compound class, with a turnover frequency (TOF) of 133 s−1 and a turnover number (TON) of 4.89 × 106, at a current density of 43.8 mA cm−2 and a potential of 1.45 V versus normal hydrogen electrode (NHE).
Evaluation of woodchip‐bioditch reactors as a nutrient reduction conservation strategy
Authors: Payne Geoffrey K. , Moore Matthew T. , Krajcir Kevin J. , Classen RaChelle , Farris Jerry L.
Published: January 2024

Continued increases in nitrogen and phosphorus loads in waterways cause problems with water quality, impacting human health, the economy, and the environment. To reach nutrient load reduction targets, innovative conservation strategies should be evaluated. This study used oval mesocosms (1.2 m × 0.58 m × 0.58 m) to assess the (1) potential of using woodchip‐bioditch reactors for the mitigation of nitrate (NO3−) and soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) in agricultural waterways; (2) influence of bioditch reactor orientation (parallel, perpendicular, and hybrid) to flow direction on NO3− and SRP concentrations and loads; and (3) impact of bioditch reactor saturation (dry, intermittently wet, and wet) on NO3− and SRP loads reduction. Woodchip‐bioditch reactors successfully reduced NO3− loads compared to controls (p ⩽ 0.031), but SRP load was sometimes higher in bioditch reactor treatments. No consistent differences were identified between orientation of bioditch reactors and flow direction. The constantly wet treatment had a significantly higher NO3− load reduction than the dry treatment and control (p ⩽ 0.042). Our results indicate the promise of woodchip‐bioditch reactors as a nutrient reduction conservation strategy, although further study of nutrient and greenhouse gas dynamics is needed before widespread implementation.
Sensitivity of littleseed canary grass populations from Punjab, India, to clodinafop‐propargyl and isoproturon
Authors: Kaur Gurpreet , Kaur Tarundeep , Singh Makhan , Sharma Priyanka , Kumar Vipan
Published: January 2024

Littleseed canary grass (Phalaris minor Retz.) is one of the most prevalent and troublesome annual grass weed species in wheat across the Indo‐Gangetic plains (IGP) of India, including Punjab. Littleseed canary grass has evolved resistance to different herbicide sites of action in the IGP region. A targeted field survey was conducted in 2018 and 2019 for seed collection of littleseed canary grass populations (total 94) across different districts of Punjab state prior to wheat harvest. The main objective of this research was to characterize the sensitivity response of collected littleseed canary grass populations to clodinafop‐propargyl (CP) and isoproturon (IPU) herbicides in whole‐plant dose‐response assays. Among all tested populations, 68 were found to be highly sensitive to CP, whereas all 94 populations were sensitive to IPU. Based on a 50% reduction in shoot dry biomass (GR50 values) and estimated sensitivity index (SI), 26 populations exhibited reduced sensitivity (SI of 2.2–4.4) to CP herbicide. The results also revealed that the littleseed canary grass populations with reduced sensitivity (SI ≥ 2.2) to CP had high sensitivity to IPU herbicide. Overall, these results suggested a high prevalence of littleseed canary grass populations with reduced sensitivity to CP herbicide in Punjab state. Diversified weed management strategies, including the use of alternative herbicides (both preemergence and postemergence), cultural (no‐till drill for wheat sowing and narrow row spacing), and mechanical (cutting of littleseed canary grass panicles prior to wheat harvest) practices should be adopted to control littleseed canary grass populations with reduced sensitivity to CP.
Dual‐purpose cowpea grain and fodder yield response to variety, nitrogen–phosphorus–potassium fertilizer, and environment
Authors: Faye Aliou , Obour Augustine K. , Akplo Tobi Moriaque , Stewart Zachary P. , Min Doohong , Prasad P. V. Vara , Assefa Yared
Published: January 2024

Addressing the challenges of food and nutrition insecurity in sub‐Saharan Africa will require innovative agriculture production systems that support multiple objectives. Dual‐purpose cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp] varieties are expected to offer greater grain yields for human consumption and high‐quality fodder for livestock in semiarid regions of Senegal. However, limited information is available on the effects of varieties and fertilizer on dual‐purpose cowpea. The main objective of this research was to evaluate the grain and fodder yield of five newly released cowpea varieties (Kelle, Leona, Lizard, Sam, and Thieye) compared to traditional variety (Yacine) with fertilizer (nitrogen‐phosphorus‐potassium 6‐20‐10) and no‐fertilizer application. Genotype × environment × management experimentations were conducted across three cowpea production zones of Darou Mousty (400 mm per year), Bambey (500 mm per year), and Boulel (700 mm per year) over three growing seasons (2019–2021) to compare the growth and yield parameters of the cowpea varieties. Results of the study showed a 40% grain yield advantage from the greater yielding (Leona) variety in this study compared with the lower yielding (Lizard) variety. There was an additional 22% grain yield increase from the application of fertilizer compared with the unfertilized treatment. The variety (Leona) that produced the most grain also produced the most fodder yields. There was 67% fodder yield advantage from Leona compared with fodder yield from the older variety Yacine. Across varieties, application of fertilizer increased fodder yield by 15% compared to the unfertilized control. Average grain yield in high‐yielding environment (Boulel 2019, Darou Mousty 2019, and Bambey 2021) was 100% greater compared with average grain yield in low‐yielding environments (Boulel 2021, Darou Mousty 2021, and Bambey 2019). Compared to Yacine, dual‐purpose varieties increased net returns by 15%–58% or 13%–42% with early‐ and late‐season cowpea sales, respectively. However, fertilizer application was profitable only when cowpea grain and fodder were sold later in the season. In general, cowpea number of branches, pod number, and pod yield increased with fertilizer application. We concluded that producers can adopt dual‐purpose varieties and proper fertilizer management to increase grain yield, fodder availability, and profitability of cowpea production in Senegal.
Monitoring commercial and smallholder production inequalities during South Africa's lockdown using remotely sensed data
Authors: Manfouo Noé Carème Fouotsa
Published: January 2024

South Africa's dualistic agricultural sector consists of many smallholders that operate adjacent to dominant commercial producers. While the smallholder sector contributes to food security, households depend primarily on market food consumption. Poverty reduction is constrained when smallholders have limited access to markets, technology, or cheap capital. We collate remotely sensed data from the South African National Land Cover map and moderate‐resolution imaging spectroradiometer to monitor land use changes as the country entered the coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) lockdown. Production growth sustained aggregate food security, but hunger rose in the poorest households. This inequality in food security is also reflected in growing inequalities in production. Commercially cultivated land areas grew significantly, with more modest gains in smallholder areas. Commercial farmers were better positioned to expand capital in a low interest rate environment during the COVID‐19 crisis. Without using technology and capital to adapt, smallholders can fall further behind during future crises and growth episodes.
Thermally activated delayed fluorescence Au‐Ag‐oxo nanoclusters: From photoluminescence to radioluminescence
Authors: Yuan Peng , Zhang Hansong , Zhou Yang , He Tengyue , Malola Sami , Gutiérrez‐Arzaluz Luis , Li Yingwei , Deng Guocheng , Dong Chunwei , Huang Renwu , Song Xin , Teo Boon K. , Mohammed Omar F. , Häkkinen Hannu , Bakr Osman. M. , Zheng Nanfeng
Published: January 2024

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials have numerous applications in energy conversion and luminescent imaging. However, they are typically achieved as metal‐organic complexes or pure organic molecules. Herein, we report the largest Au‐Ag‐oxo nanoclusters to date, Au18Ag26(R1COO)12(R2C≡C)24(μ4‐O)2(μ3‐O)2 (Au18Ag26, where R1 = CH3‐, Ph‐, CHOPh‐ or CF3Ph‐; R2 = Ph‐ or FPh‐). These nanoclusters exhibit exceptional TADF properties, including a small S1‐T1 energy gap of 55.5 meV, a high absolute photoluminescence quantum yield of 86.7%, and a microseconds TADF decay time of 1.6 μs at ambient temperature. Meanwhile, Au18Ag26 shows outstanding stability against oxygen quenching and ambient conditions. Atomic level analysis reveals the strong π⋯π and C‐H⋯π interactions from the aromatic alkynyl ligands and the enhancement of metal‐oxygen‐metal interactions by centrally coordinated O2−. Modeling of the electronic structure shows spatially separated highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital, which promote charge transfer from the ligand shell, predominantly carboxylate ligands, to O2−‐embedded metal core. Furthermore, TADF Au‐Ag‐oxo nanoclusters exhibit promising radioluminescence properties, which we demonstrate for X‐ray imaging. Our work paves the way for the design of TADF materials based on large metal nanoclusters for light‐emission and radioluminescence applications.
Fire‐retardant and high‐strength polymeric materials enabled by supramolecular aggregates
Authors: Liu Lei , Zhu Menghe , Feng Jiabing , Peng Hong , Shi Yongqian , Gao Jiefeng , Tang Long‐Cheng , Song Pingan
Published: January 2024

High‐performance polymers have proliferated in modern society across a variety of industries because of their low density, good chemical stability, and superior mechanical properties. However, while polymers are widely applied, frequent fire disasters induced by their intrinsic flammability have caused massive impacts on human beings, the economy, and the environment. Supramolecular chemistry has recently been intensively researched to provide fire retardancy for polymers via the physical barrier and char‐catalyzing effects of supramolecular aggregates. In parallel, the noncovalent interactions between supramolecular and polymer chains, such as hydrogen bonding, π–π interactions, metal–ligand coordination, and synergistic interactions, can endow the matrix with enhanced mechanical strength. This makes it possible to integrate physical–chemical properties and noncovalent interactions into one supramolecular aggregate‐based high‐performance polymeric system on demand. However, fulfilling these promises needs more research. Here, we provide an overview of the latest research advances of fire‐retardant and high‐strength polymer materials based on supramolecular structures and interactions of aggregates. This work reviews their conceptual design, characterization, modification principles, performances, applications, and mechanisms. Finally, development challenges and perspectives on future research are also discussed.
Matthew effect: General design strategy of ultra‐fluorogenic nanoprobes with amplified dark–bright states in aggregates
Authors: Segawa Shinsuke , Ou Xinwen , Shen Tianruo , Ryu Tomohiro , Ishii Yuki , Sung Herman H. Y. , Williams Ian D. , Kwok Ryan T. K. , Onda Ken , Miyata Kiyoshi , He Xuewen , Liu Xiaogang , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: January 2024

Fluorescence imaging, a key technique in biological research, frequently utilizes fluorogenic probes for precise imaging in living systems. Tetrazine is an effective emission quencher in fluorogenic probe designs, which can be selectively damaged upon bioorthogonal click reactions, leading to considerable emission enhancement. Despite significant efforts to increase the emission enhancement ratio (IAC/IBC) of tetrazine‐functionalized fluorogenic probes, the influence of molecular aggregation on the emission properties has been largely overlooked in these probe designs. In this study, we reveal that an ultrahigh IAC/IBC can be realized in the aggregate system when tetrazine is paired with aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) luminogens. Tetrazine amplifies its quenching efficiency upon aggregation and drastically reduce background emissions. Subsequent click reactions damage tetrazine and trigger significant AIE, leading to considerably enhanced IAC/IBC. We further showcase the capability of these ultra‐fluorogenic systems in selective imaging of multiple organelles in living cells. We term this unique fluorogenicity of AIE luminogen‐quencher complexes with amplified dark‐bright states as “Matthew effect” in aggregate emission, potentially providing a universal approach to attain ultrahigh IAC/IBC in diverse fluorogenic systems.
Hydrodynamics in a randomly packed bed of spheres: A comparison between PR‐CFD simulations and MRI experiments
Authors: Eghbalmanesh Amirhossein , Romijn Noah , Baltussen Maike W. , Peters E. A. J. F. (Frank) , Buist Kay A. , Kuipers J. A. M.
Published: January 2024

Multitubular reactors are commonly used in industry for processes involving highly exothermic chemical reactions. This reactor type consists of individual tubes, with a small diameter compared to the particle size. These slender beds facilitate heat management, but also give rise to flow maldistribution, which decreases the reactor efficiency. The aim of this article is to validate particle‐resolved simulations using Magnetic Resonance Imaging experiments while focusing on the flow maldistribution. The packing structure used in the simulations is reconstructed from the experimental images to facilitate a one‐to‐one comparison. A good match between experiments and simulations is found for the averaged flow profile, probability density function of the velocity in axial direction and even the local velocity distributions. However, a correction of the experimental results for magnetic susceptibility artifacts is necessary to obtain a similar match in the probability density functions and the local profiles.
Near‐Infrared‐Sensing Flexible Organic Synaptic Transistors with Water‐Processable Charge‐Trapping Polymers for Potential Neuromorphic Computing/Skin Applications
Authors: Kim Taehoon , Lee Woongki , Kim Soyeon , Lim Dong Chan , Kim Youngkyoo
Published: January 2024

Neuromorphic devices, which can mimic the human body's neural system, are rising as an essential technology for artificial intelligence. Here, two types of organic synaptic transistors (OSTRs), OSTR‐A and OSTR‐B, are fabricated on either glass or polymer film using water‐processable charge‐trapping gate‐insulating layers that are prepared by reacting ethylenediamine (EDA) and poly(2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propanesulfonic acid) (PAMPSA). OSTR‐A is designed to function as a basic artificial synapse by gate pulse stimulation only, while OSTR‐B has additional near‐infrared (NIR)‐absorbing conjugated polymer layers for further sensing of NIR light upon gate voltage stimulations. The PAMPSA:EDA films are found to contain permanent charge bridges (ion pairs of –SO3− +NH3‐) that play a charge‐trapping role in OSTRs. Both devices with the PAMPSA:EDA layers exhibit clear postsynaptic current (PSC) signals upon gate voltage pulses, leading to long‐term potentiation/depression characteristics. The flexible OSTR‐B devices can sense the NIR light (905 nm) upon gate pulse stimulation and their PSC signals are well maintained even after bending (>5000 times). Artificial neural network simulations disclose that the flexible OSTR‐B devices can stably perform synaptic operations under the NIR light with high accuracy (>90%) even after repeated bending (5000 times), indicative of potential use in artificial neuromorphic skin applications.
Male facial cues to physical strength in Europe: Medium‐strength preference and higher aggressiveness attribution to the weakest
Authors: Schaefer Katrin , Seiser Veronika Melis , Prucha Simon , Kerschbaumer Verena , Fink Bernhard , Windhager Sonja
Published: January 2024

Objectives

The capacity to assess male physical strength from facial cues may be adaptive given health and fitness‐related associations with muscular strength. Our study complements recent research on strength‐related face perceptions of male Maasai by applying the protocol to male European faces and assessors.

Methods

Five distinct facial morphs calibrated for handgrip strength (HGS) were manufactured with geometric morphometrics performing regressions of the Procrustes shape coordinates on HGS in a sample of 26 European men (18–32 years). Young adult men and women (n = 445) rated these morphs on physical strength, attractiveness, and aggressiveness.

Results

Facial morphs calibrated to lower HGS were rated as less strong, less attractive, and more aggressive than those calibrated to higher HGS. Medium levels of HGS were associated with the highest attractiveness ratings.

Conclusions

The rating patterns of physical strength, attractiveness, and aggressiveness for European male facial morphs exhibit similarity to previous ratings of Maasai male faces. Therefore, the current findings corroborate the suggestion of a common mechanism for social attributions based on facial cues to physical strength, modulated by local ecology and societal context.