bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Ultra‐Processed Food Intake with Cardiovascular and Respiratory Disease Multimorbidity: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Li Huiping , Li Shu , Yang Hongxi , Zhang Yuan , Ma Yue , Hou Yabing , Zhang Xinyu , Sun Li , Borné Yan , Wang Yaogang
Published: March 2023

Scope

Evidence suggests a positive association between ultra‐processed food (UPF) consumption and the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The study aims to investigate associations between UPF intake and respiratory disease, CVD, and their multimorbidity in a large prospective cohort.

Methods and results

Within the UK Biobank, participants who are free from respiratory disease or CVD at baseline and completed at least two times 24‐h dietary records are included in this study. After adjusting for socioeconomic status and lifestyle factors, the hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) for each 10% increase in UPF are 1.06 (1.04, 1.09) for CVD, 1.04 (1.02, 1.06) for respiratory disease, 1.15 (1.08, 1.22) for CVD mortality, and 1.06 (1.01, 1.12) for their multimorbidity, respectively. In addition, replacing 20% of UPF weight in diet with an equivalent proportion of unprocessed or minimally processed foods is estimated to be associated with 11% lower risk of CVD, 7% lower risk of respiratory disease, 25% lower risk of CVD mortality, and 11% lower risk of CVD and respiratory disease multimorbidity.

Conclusion

In this prospective cohort study, higher consumption of UPF is associated with higher risks of CVD and respiratory disease multimorbidity. Further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Feasibility study of hybrid inverse planning with transmission beams and single‐energy spread‐out Bragg peaks for proton FLASH radiotherapy
Authors: Ma Chaoqiong , Yang Xiaofeng , Chang Chih‐Wei , Liu Ruirui , Bohannon Duncan , Lin Liyong , Liu Tian , Tian Sibo , Zhou Jun
Published: March 2023

Background

Ultra‐high dose rate (FLASH) proton planning with only transmission beams (TBs) has limitations in normal tissue sparing. The single‐energy spread‐out Bragg peaks (SESOBPs) of the FLASH dose rate have been demonstrated feasible for proton FLASH planning.

Purpose

To investigate the feasibility of combining TBs and SESOBPs for proton FLASH treatment.

Methods

A hybrid inverse optimization method was developed to combine the TBs and SESOBPs (TB‐SESOBP) for FLASH planning. The SESOBPs were generated field‐by‐field from spreading out the BPs by pre‐designed general bar ridge filters (RFs) and placed at the central target by range shifters (RSs) to obtain a uniform dose within the target. The SESOBPs and TBs were fully placed field‐by‐field allowing automatic spot selection and weighting in the optimization process. A spot reduction strategy was conducted in the optimization process to push up the minimum MU/spot assuring the plan deliverability at beam current of 165 nA. The TB‐SESOBP plans were validated in comparison with the TB only (TB‐only) plans and the plans with the combination of TBs and BPs (TB‐BP plans) regarding 3D dose and dose rate (dose‐averaged dose rate) distributions for five lung cases. The FLASH dose rate coverage (V40Gy/s) was evaluated in the structure volume receiving > 10% of the prescription dose.

Results

Compared to the TB‐only plans, the mean spinal cord D1.2cc drastically reduced by 41% (P < 0.05), the mean lung V7Gy and V7.4 Gy moderately reduced by up to 17% (P < 0.05), and the target dose homogeneity slightly increased in the TB‐SESOBP plans. Comparable dose homogeneity was achieved in both TB‐SESOBP and TB‐BP plans. Besides, prominent improvements were achieved in lung sparing for the cases of relatively large targets by the TB‐SESOBP plans compared to the TB‐BP plans. The targets and the skin were fully covered with the FLASH dose rate in all three plans. For the OARs, V40Gy/s = 100% was achieved by the TB‐only plans while V40Gy/s > 85% was obtained by the other two plans.

Conclusion

We have demonstrated that the hybrid TB‐SESOBP planning was feasible to achieve FLASH dose rate for proton therapy. With pre‐designed general bar RFs, the hybrid TB‐SESOBP planning could be implemented for proton adaptive FLASH radiotherapy. As an alternative FLASH planning approach to TB‐only planning, the hybrid TB‐SESOBP planning has great potential in dosimetrically improving OAR sparing while maintaining high target dose homogeneity.
Multi‐readout DWI with a reduced FOV for studying the coupling between diffusion and T2* relaxation in the prostate
Authors: Sun Kaibao , Dan Guangyu , Zhong Zheng , Zhou Xiaohong Joe
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To develop a DWI sequence with multiple readout echo‐trains in a single shot (multi‐readout DWI) over a reduced FOV, and to demonstrate its ability to achieve high data acquisition efficiency in the study of coupling between diffusion and relaxation in the human prostate.

Methods

The proposed multi‐readout DWI sequence plays out multiple EPI readout echo‐trains after a Stejskal‐Tanner diffusion preparation module. Each EPI readout echo‐train corresponded to a distinct effective TE. To maintain a high spatial resolution with a relatively short echo‐train for each readout, a 2D RF pulse was used to limit the FOV. Experiments were performed on the prostate of six healthy subjects to acquire a set of images with three b values (0, 500, and 1000 s/mm2) and three TEs (63.0, 78.8, and 94.6 ms), producing three ADC maps at different TEs and three maps at different b values.

Results

Multi‐readout DWI enabled a threefold acceleration without compromising the spatial resolution when compared with a conventional single‐readout sequence. Images with three b values and three TEs were obtained in 3 min 40 s with an adequate SNR (≥ 26.9). The ADC values (1.45 ± 0.13, 1.52 ± 0.14, and 1.58 ± 0.15 ; P < 0.01) exhibited an increasing trend as TEs increased (63.0 ms, 78.8 ms, and 94.6 ms), whereas values (74.78 ± 13.21, 63.21 ± 7.84, and 56.61 ± 5.05 ms; P < 0.01) decreases as the b values increased (0, 500, and 1000 s/mm2).

Conclusion

The multi‐readout DWI sequence over a reduced FOV provides a time‐efficient technique to study the coupling between diffusion and relaxation times.
Bilateral transshipment between competing retailers
Authors: Fu Qi , Liu Liming , Shang Weixin
Published: March 2023

This article investigates whether and how competing retailers should transship to each other in overlapping markets where customers encountering stock‐out at one retailer may switch to another. A two‐stage game model is used to examine the inventory and end‐of‐season transshipment decisions. We show that, instead of unconditional full‐transshipment for the case of non‐competing retailers, the stage‐2 optimal transshipment policy consists of no‐transshipment, partial‐transshipment, and full‐transshipment, determined by the interplay of switching probability, transshipment price, and remaining inventory. We find that transshipment dampens (respectively, intensifies) the inventory competition when the transshipment price is viable and below (respectively, above) a threshold. In addition to its inventory pooling effect, transshipment under competition also has a competition effect which is positive when transshipment dampens inventory competition but not too strongly. The option of bilateral transshipment leads to a Pareto improvement for competing retailers, when the competition effect is positive; but even when it is negative, Pareto improvement is still achievable for a wider transshipment price range in which the combined pooling and competition effect is positive. We identify explicitly the necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a unique pair of coordinating transshipment prices and provide formulas to compute them.
Model‐based reconstructions for intravoxel incoherent motion and diffusion tensor imaging parameter map estimations
Authors: Rauh Susanne S. , Maier Oliver , Gurney‐Champion Oliver J. , Hooijmans Melissa T. , Stollberger Rudolf , Nederveen Aart J. , Strijkers Gustav J.
Published: March 2023

Intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) imaging and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) facilitate noninvasive quantification of tissue perfusion and diffusion. Both are promising biomarkers in various diseases and a combined acquisition is therefore desirable. This comes with challenges, including noisy parameter maps and long scan times, especially for the perfusion fraction f and pseudo‐diffusion coefficient D*. A model‐based reconstruction has the potential to overcome these challenges. As a first step, our goal was to develop a model‐based reconstruction framework for IVIM and combined IVIM‐DTI parameter estimation. The IVIM and IVIM‐DTI models were implemented in the PyQMRI model‐based reconstruction framework and validated with simulations and in vivo data. Commonly used voxel‐wise nonlinear least‐squares fitting was used as the reference. Simulations with the IVIM and IVIM‐DTI models were performed with 100 noise realizations to assess accuracy and precision. Diffusion‐weighted data were acquired for IVIM reconstruction in the liver (n = 5), as well as for IVIM‐DTI in the kidneys (n = 5) and lower‐leg muscles (n = 6) of healthy volunteers. The median and interquartile range (IQR) values of the IVIM and IVIM‐DTI parameters were compared to assess bias and precision. With model‐based reconstruction, the parameter maps exhibited less noise, which was most pronounced in the f and D* maps, both in the simulations and in vivo. The bias values in the simulations were comparable between model‐based reconstruction and the reference method. The IQR was lower with model‐based reconstruction compared with the reference for all parameters. In conclusion, model‐based reconstruction is feasible for IVIM and IVIM‐DTI and improves the precision of the parameter estimates, particularly for f and D* maps.
Report of Haemophilus Influenzae serotype a intracranial infections in older children
Authors: Probst Varvara , Shahoud Fadi , Osborne Aaron Fletcher , Alvarez Ana , Maraqa Nizar , Mirza Ayesha
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Haemophilus influenzae (Hi) is subdivided into typeable (a–f) and non‐typeable groups. Hi serotype b (Hib) has historically been one of the important pathogens responsible for invasive infection. However, after widespread Hib vaccination, the emergence of other Hi serotypes, specifically Hi serotype a (Hia), was noted during the last few decades, mostly in children younger than 5 years of age.

Case presentation

We present two cases of severe intracranial infections with detected Hia in patients > 5 years of age within a short time frame and within the same geographic area.

Conclusion

Epidemiological studies and surveillance on Hia‐related illnesses in all age groups worldwide are needed to better understand the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of Hia. This can establish a platform to develop a candidate vaccine against Hia that might protect children of all ages.
Synthesis and applications of polymer cubosomes and hexosomes
Authors: Grandes Reyes Carlos Fitzgerald , Ha Sungmin , Kim Kyoung Taek
Published: March 2023

The synthesis and use of polymer cubosomes have received significant attention in recent years. Polymer cubosomes are highly stable colloidal particles with triply periodic minimal surface. Inherently, polymer cubosomes have several advantages over other nanostructures like micelles and vesicles as they are quite uniform and porous structures. Due to the large specific surface area of the interior and bicontinuous nature, they have the capacity to load significant amounts of hydrophobic and hydrophilic substances. Additionally, their properties make them suitable for use as nanotemplates, catalyst supports, and nanovehicles for the separation and regulated release of biomolecules. Regarding their synthesis, block copolymers that may form cubosomes are still few in number, in part because different block copolymers require various self‐assembly conditions. In order to create polymer cubosomes, five different self‐assembly techniques have been reported, including the co‐solvent method, flash nanoprecipitation, evaporation‐induced self‐assembly, solvent‐diffusion‐evaporation‐mediated self‐assembly, and polymerization‐induced self‐assembly. This review article describes various synthetic techniques for creating polymer cubosomes and goes into further depth on recent uses for polymer cubosomes. It is anticipated that this article may offer some helpful guidance to researchers interested in the different applications of polymer cubosomes.
Enhancement of the drug sensitization of cancer cells by plasma‐activated saline
Authors: Xu Han , Wei Zipeng , Huang Yihong , Xu Hancheng , Li Bo , Zhang Hao , Xie Kai , Shao Mingxu
Published: March 2023

Plasma‐activated solutions have promising applications in the biomedical field. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of plasma‐activated saline (PAS) for enhancing drug sensitivity in drug‐resistant cancer cells. Our data illustrated that He + air plasma jet irradiation can generate a variety of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species in saline. In vitro studies found that the addition of PAS to cell culture medium effectively enhanced the sensitivity of drug‐resistant cancer cells, thereby inducing complete inactivation of cancer cells by significantly increasing intracellular ROS levels in response to treatment with anticancer drugs. The results indicate that the synergistic effects of PAS and drugs could highlight a promising option for the future treatment of drug‐resistant cancer cells.
Evaluating bone marrow dosimetry with the addition of bone marrow structures to the medical internal radiation dose phantom
Authors: Ferrone Kristine L. , Willis Charles E. , Guan Fada , Ma Jingfei , Peterson Leif E. , Kry Stephen F.
Published: March 2023

Background

Reliable estimates of radiation dose to bone marrow are critical to understanding the risk of radiation‐induced cancers. Although the medical internal radiation dose phantom is routinely used for dose estimation, bone marrow is not defined in the phantom. Consequently, methods of indirectly estimating bone marrow dose have been implemented based on dose to surrogate volumes or average dose to soft tissue.

Methods

In this study, new bone marrow structures were implemented and evaluated to the medical internal radiation dose phantom in Geant4, offering improved fidelity. The dose equivalent to the bone marrow was calculated across medical, occupational, and space radiation exposure scenarios, and compared with results using prior indirect estimation methods.

Conclusion

Our results show that bone marrow dose may be overestimated by up to a factor of three when using the traditional methods when compared with the improved fidelity medical internal radiation dose method, specifically at clinical x‐ray energies.
Insights into the Temperature‐Dependent Switching Behavior of Three‐Gated Reconfigurable Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Galderisi Giulio , Beyer Christoph , Mikolajick Thomas , Trommer Jens
Published: March 2023

Three‐gated reconfigurable field‐effect transistors are innovative nanoelectronic devices that are rapidly and increasingly attracting substantial interest in several fields of application thanks to their inherent n/p‐type reconfiguration capabilities. For this reason, it is of significant importance to acquire a deeper knowledge about the temperature ranges in which such devices can be operated and, at the same time, gather a better understanding of the physical mechanisms that are involved in their operation. To achieve this aim, in‐depth observations about the functioning of such devices in an ultrawide temperature range, spanning from 80 to 475 K, are performed and are presented for their ambipolar and operation modes. In view of the data exhibited herein, it is possible to assess the performances of three‐gated reconfigurable field‐effect transistors within a considerable temperature span and finally provide significant insights on the temperature‐dependent physical mechanisms regulating their functionality.
Ginkgolide A targets forkhead box O1 to protect against lipopolysaccharide‐induced septic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wang Luyang , Zhao Yunxi , Su Zhenyang , Zhao Kun , Li Peng , Xu Tianhua
Published: March 2023

Ginkgolide A (GA), a main terpenoid extracted from Ginkgo biloba, possesses biological activities such as anti‐inflammatory, anti‐tumor, and liver protection. However, the inhibitory effects of GA on septic cardiomyopathy remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the effects and mechanisms of GA in countering sepsis‐induced cardiac dysfunction and injury. In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced mouse model, GA alleviated mitochondrial injury and cardiac dysfunction. GA also significantly reduced the production of inflammatory and apoptotic cells, the release of inflammatory indicators, and the expression of oxidative stress‐associated and apoptosis‐associated markers, but increased the expression of pivotal antioxidant enzymes in hearts from LPS group. These results were consistent with those of in vitro experiments based on H9C2 cells. Database analysis and molecular docking suggested that FoxO1 was targeted by GA, as shown by stable hydrogen bonds formed between GA with SER‐39 and ASN‐29 of FoxO1. GA reversed LPS‐induced downregulation of nucleus FoxO1 and upregulation of p‐FoxO1 in H9C2 cells. FoxO1 knockdown abolished the protective properties of GA in vitro. KLF15, TXN2, NOTCH1, and XBP1, as the downstream genes of FoxO1, also exerted protective effects. We concluded that GA could alleviate LPS‐induced septic cardiomyopathy via binding to FoxO1 to attenuate cardiomyocyte inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis.
Body mass index and natriuretic peptides trends before and after left ventricular assist device
Authors: Schultz Jessica , Vest Amanda R. , Masotti Maria , Hoeg Austin , Teigen Levi , John Ranjit , Shaffer Andrew , Alexy Tamas , Martin Cindy , Cogswell Rebecca
Published: March 2023

Background

It is unknown to what degree of sarcopenia related to heart failure (HF) is reversible with resolution of the HF syndrome. We evaluated whether (1) weight loss prior to left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is associated with pre‐operative sarcopenia as quantified on pre‐operative chest CTs and (2) determine the relationship between weight recovery (increase) after LVAD implantation and reduction of NT‐proBNP levels.

Methods

In a large single‐centre cohort (n = 502), CT measures of sarcopenia (pectoralis muscle mass indexed to body surface area and tissue attenuation) were correlated with pre‐LVAD BMI trend (n = 190). BMI and NT‐proBNP trends before and after LVAD implantation were evaluated (n = 403). Linear effects modelling was performed to test the association between NT‐proBNP and BMI trends.

Results

A downtrending BMI prior to LVAD was associated with pectoralis muscle tissue attenuation (P < 0.05). BMI declined prior to LVAD, declined further early post‐implant, and then increased between 100 and 300 days post‐implant (average per cent change in BMI in Year 1, 7.6%, 95% CI: 6.3–8.8%). NT‐proBNP decreased during the first 100 post LVAD days (−5.4%, 95% CI: −6.6 to −4.2%). Post‐LVAD NT‐proBNP and BMI trends were significantly associated, with a decrease of 1 unit log NT‐proBNP associated with an increase in BMI of 0.81 kg/m2 (CI: 0.53–1.09, P < .001). The rise in post‐LVAD BMI occurred after the reduction in NT‐proBNP levels. Patients who failed to gain weight post‐LVAD had the highest 6‐month post‐LVAD natriuretic peptides (lowest per cent BMI gain tertile NT‐proBNP: 2208 vs. highest 1635 pg/mL, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Weight recovery during LVAD support occurs after the reduction in natriuretic peptide levels. Failure to gain weight during LVAD support was associated with persistently elevated natriuretic peptide levels. These data collectively suggest that recovery of body mass may be dependent upon recovery of the HF syndrome.
Finite‐time sampled‐data output feedback stabilization for a class of feed‐forward non‐holonomic systems
Authors: Mao Jun , Zou Wencheng , He Wenmin , Xiang Zhengrong
Published: March 2023

This article considers a finite‐time sampled‐data output feedback stabilization problem for a class of feed‐forward non‐holonomic systems. Due to that the states of the focused system are unavailable, a reduced‐order observer is designed to estimate the unavailable states with the sampled output detection of the non‐holonomic system, and two finite‐time sampled‐data stabilizers are respectively constructed by combining the backstepping and adding a power integral techniques. Based on the stepped and switching control strategies, the corresponding closed‐loop system can be globally finite‐time stable by the constructed stabilizers with allowable design constants and sampling period, and this can be proved by choosing an appropriate Lyapunov function candidate. In the end, two simulation examples, which include a numerical and a practical examples, are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed finite‐time stabilization method.
When and how the implementation of green human resource management and data‐driven culture to improve the firm sustainable environmental development?
Authors: Awan Usama , Braathen Petter , Hannola Lea
Published: March 2023

The process by which manufacturing firms incorporate data‐driven culture into existing routines and use them to generate organizational learning (OL) and improve sustainable environmental development is a central concern in the green management literature. For this, the study examines how and to what extent data‐driven culture contributes to developing and integrating organizational learning capability (OLC) for environmental performance (EP). The analysis is informed by theory on a knowledge‐based view and dynamic capabilities. We propose a conceptual model that examines the moderation‐mediation impact of data‐driven culture on green human resource management (HRM) and EP through OLC. We empirically test our model using primary survey data from 274 manufacturing enterprises in Pakistan. Partial least‐square structural equation modeling and moderated‐mediation regression analysis were used to assess the hypothesized correlations between the variables. The study implies that green HRM practices can facilitate OLC to achieve and gain high EP in contexts of rapid change. Further, the findings show that firms adopting a data‐driven culture may have better EP. Having a robust data‐driven culture makes organizations focus more on learning capability development that promotes increased EP. This research offers several significant contributions to green management literature and theory. Managers should promote green human resource strategies and the importance of data‐driven culture for greening organizations. In today's data‐rich and unpredictable world, these empirical studies provide relevant and practical advice for managers to implement data‐driven culture to make shift and support sustainable development issues.
Crystals of Aliphatic Derivatives of [Cu(acac)2] have Distinct Atomic‐Scale Mechanisms of Bending
Authors: Thompson Amy J. , Powell Joshua A. , Melville Jamie N. , McMurtrie John C. , Clegg Jack K.
Published: March 2023

Molecular crystals displaying elastic flexibility have important applications in the fields of optoelectronics and nanophotonic technologies. Understanding the mechanisms by which these materials bend is critical to the design of future materials incorporating these properties. Based on the known elastic properties of bis(acetylacetonato)copper(II), a series of 14 aliphatic derivatives are synthesized and crystallized. All those which grew in a needle morphology display noticeable elasticity, with 1D chains of π‐stacked molecules parallel to the long metric length of the crystal a consistent crystallographic feature. Crystallographic mapping is used to measure the mechanism of elasticity at an atomic‐scale. Symmetric derivatives with ethyl and propyl side chains are found to have different mechanisms of elasticity, which are further distinguished from the previously reported mechanism of bis(acetylacetonato)copper(II). While crystals of bis(acetylacetonato)copper(II) are known to bend elastically via a molecular rotation mechanism, the elasticity of the compounds presented is facilitated by expansion of their π‐stacking interactions.
Photothermal Responsive Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction Resolving Exosomal microRNAs Expression in Liver Cancer
Authors: Parvin Rokshana , Zhang Lexiang , Zu Yan , Ye Fangfu
Published: March 2023

Exosomal microRNAs have been studied as a good source of noninvasive biomarkers due to their functions in genetic exchange between cells and have been already well documented in many biological activities; however, inaccuracy remains a key challenge for liver cancer surveillance. Herein, a versatile duplex photothermal digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) strategy combined with a lipid nanoparticle‐based exosome capture approach is proposed to profile microRNAs expression through a 3‐h easy‐to‐operate process. The microfluidically‐generated molybdenum disulfide‐nanocomposite‐doped gelatin microcarriers display attractive properties as a 2–4 °C s−1 ramping‐up rate triggered by near‐infrared and reversible sol–gel transforming in step with PCR activation. To achieve PCR thermocycling, the corresponding irradiation coordinating with fan cooling are automatically performed via a homemade control module with programs. Thus, taking the multiplexing capability of dual‐color labeling, 19–31 folds higher in exosomal microRNA‐200b‐3p and microRNA‐21‐5p, and tenfold lower in microRNA‐22‐3p expressions relative to the control microRNA‐26a‐5p are quantified in two liver cancer cells (Huh7 and HepG2) than in those from the healthy cells. It is believed that this exosomal microRNA genotyping method would be highly applicable for liver cancer diagnostics.
Multifunctional Nanocrystalline‐Assembled Porous Hierarchical Material and Device for Integrating Microwave Absorption, Electromagnetic Interference Shielding, and Energy Storage
Authors: Yao Lihua , Wang Yuchang , Zhao Jianguo , Zhu Youqi , Cao Maosheng
Published: March 2023

Multifunctional applications including efficient microwave absorption and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding as well as excellent Li‐ion storage are rarely achieved in a single material. Herein, a multifunctional nanocrystalline‐assembled porous hierarchical NiO@NiFe2O4/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) heterostructure integrating microwave absorption, EMI shielding, and Li‐ion storage functions is fabricated and tailored to develop high‐performance energy conversion and storage devices. Owing to its structural and compositional advantages, the optimized NiO@NiFe2O4/15rGO achieves a minimum reflection loss of −55 dB with a matching thickness of 2.3 mm, and the effective absorption bandwidth is up to 6.4 GHz. The EMI shielding effectiveness reaches 8.69 dB. NiO@NiFe2O4/15rGO exhibits a high initial discharge specific capacity of 1813.92 mAh g−1, which reaches 1218.6 mAh g−1 after 289 cycles and remains at 784.32 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 0.1 A g−1. In addition, NiO@NiFe2O4/15rGO demonstrates a long cycling stability at high current densities. This study provides an insight into the design of advanced multifunctional materials and devices and provides an innovative method of solving current environmental and energy problems.
From Meso to Macro: Controlling Hierarchical Porosity in Supraparticle Powders
Authors: Sultan Umair , Götz Alexander , Schlumberger Carola , Drobek Dominik , Bleyer Gudrun , Walter Teresa , Löwer Erik , Peuker Urs Alexander , Thommes Matthias , Spiecker Erdmann , Apeleo Zubiri Benjamin , Inayat Alexandra , Vogel Nicolas
Published: March 2023

A drying droplet containing colloidal particles can consolidate into a spherical assembly called a supraparticle. Such supraparticles are inherently porous due to the spaces between the constituent primary particles. Here, the emergent, hierarchical porosity in spray‐dried supraparticles is tailored via three distinct strategies acting at different length scales. First, mesopores (<10 nm) are introduced via the primary particles. Second, the interstitial pores are tuned from the meso‐ (35 nm) to the macro scale (250 nm) by controlling the primary particle size. Third, defined macropores (>100 nm) are introduced via templating polymer particles, which can be selectively removed by calcination. Combining all three strategies creates hierarchical supraparticles with fully tailored pore size distributions. Moreover, another level of the hierarchy is added by fabricating supra‐supraparticles, using the supraparticles themselves as building blocks, which provide additional pores with micrometer dimensions. The interconnectivity of the pore networks within all supraparticle types is investigated via detailed textural and tomographic analysis. This work provides a versatile toolbox for designing porous materials with precisely tunable, hierarchical porosity from the meso‐ (3 nm) to the macroscale (≈10 µm) that can be utilized for applications in catalysis, chromatography, or adsorption.
Defect‐Rich PdIr Bimetallene Nanoribbons with Interatomic Charge Localization for Isopropanol‐Assisted Seawater Splitting
Authors: Liu Songliang , Zhang Hugang , Yu Hongjie , Deng Kai , Wang Ziqiang , Xu You , Wang Liang , Wang Hongjing
Published: March 2023

Metallene with outstanding physicochemical properties is an efficient two‐dimensional electrocatalysts for sustainable hydrogen (H2) production applications. However, the controllable fabrication of extended atomically thin metallene nanoribbons remains a formidable challenge. Herein, this work proposes a controllable preparation strategy for atomically thin defect‐rich PdIr bimetallene nanoribbons (PdIr BNRs) with a thickness of only 1.5 nm for the efficient and stable isopropanol‐assisted seawater electrolytic H2 production. When using PdIr BNRs as catalyst to build an isopropanol‐assisted seawater electrolysis system, a voltage of only 0.38 V is required at @10 mA cm−2 to achieve energy‐saving H2 production, while producing high value‐added acetone at the anode. The aberration‐corrected high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) clearly reveals that the PdIr BNRs possess abundant structural defects, which can additionally serve as highly catalytically active sites. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations combined with X‐ray absorption spectroscopy studies reveal that the introduction of Ir atoms can induce the formation of a localized charge region and shift the d‐band center of Pd down, thereby reducing the adsorption energy on the catalyst in favor of the rapid desorption of H2. This work opens the way for the controllable design and construction of defect‐rich atomically thin metallene nanoribbons for efficient electrocatalytic applications.
Cation–π Interaction Trigger Supramolecular Hydrogelation of Peptide Amphiphiles
Authors: Chen Shuang , Li Zenghui , Zhang Chunhui , Wu Xia , Wang Wenjie , Huang Qingjun , Chen Weiyu , Shi Junfeng , Yuan Dan
Published: March 2023

As an important noncovalent interaction, cation–π interaction plays an essential role in a broad area of biology and chemistry. Despite extensive studies in protein stability and molecular recognition, the utilization of cation–π interaction as a major driving force to construct supramolecular hydrogel remains uncharted. Here, a series of peptide amphiphiles are designed with cation–π interaction pairs that can self‐assemble into supramolecular hydrogel under physiological condition. The influence of cation–π interaction is thoroughly investigated on peptide folding propensity, morphology, and rigidity of the resultant hydrogel. Computational and experimental results confirm that cation–π interaction could serve as a major driving force to trigger peptide folding, resultant β‐hairpin peptide self‐assembled into fibril‐rich hydrogel. Furthermore, the designed peptides exhibit high efficacy on cytosolic protein delivery. As the first case of using cation–π interactions to trigger peptide self‐assembly and hydrogelation, this work provides a novel strategy to generate supramolecular biomaterials.
Solid‐State Electron Transport Through Carbon Dots Junctions: The Role of Boron and Phosphorus Doping
Authors: Toren Yuval , Vilan Ayelet , Amdursky Nadav
Published: March 2023

Carbon dots (CDs) are a new class of nanoparticles that gained widespread attention recently because of their easy preparation, water solubility, biocompatibility, and bright luminescence, leading to their integration in various applications. Despite their nm‐scale and proven electron transfer capabilities, the solid‐state electron transport (ETp) across single CDs was never explored. Here, a molecular junction configuration is used to explore the ETp across CDs as a function of their chemical structure using both DC‐bias current–voltage and AC‐bias impedance measurements. CDs are used with Nitrogen and Sulfur as exogenous atoms and doped with small amounts of Boron and Phosphorous. It is shown that the presence of P and B highly improves the ETp efficiency across the CDs, yet without an indication of a change in the dominant charge carrier. Instead, structural characterizations reveal significant changes in the chemical species across the CDs: the formation of sulfonates and graphitic Nitrogen. Temperature‐dependent measurements and normalized differential conductance analysis reveal that the ETp mechanism across the CDs behaves as tunneling, which is common to all CDs used here. The study shows that the conductivity of CDs is on par with that of sophisticated molecular wires, suggesting CDs as new ‘green’ candidates for molecular electronics applications.
Interfacial Designs of MXenes for Mild Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Storage
Authors: Guo Rui , Chen Chaofan , Bannenberg Lars J. , Wang Hao , Liu Haozhe , Yu Minghao , Sofer Zdenek , Lei Zhibin , Wang Xuehang
Published: March 2023

Limited Li resources, high cost, and safety risks of using organic electrolytes have stimulated a strong motivation to develop non‐Li aqueous batteries. Aqueous Zn‐ion storage (ZIS) devices offer low‐cost and high‐safety solutions. However, their practical applications are at the moment restricted by their short cycle life arising mainly from irreversible electrochemical side reactions and processes at the interfaces. This review sums up the capability of using 2D MXenes to increase the reversibility at the interface, assist the charge transfer process, and thereby improve the performance of ZIS. First, they discuss the ZIS mechanism and irreversibility of typical electrode materials in mild aqueous electrolytes. Then, applications of MXenes in different ZIS components are highlighted, including as electrodes for Zn2+ intercalation, protective layers of Zn anode, hosts for Zn deposition, substrates, and separators. Finally, perspectives are put forward on further optimizing MXenes to improve the ZIS performance.
Comparison of Metastable Pitting Behavior of Austenitic and Duplex Stainless Steels under U‐Bending Deformation
Authors: Hou Yan , Li Chao-Long , He Xin-Hai , Cheng Cong-Qian , Zhao Jie , Cao Tie-Shan
Published: March 2023

The metastable pitting behavior of austenitic stainless steel (304 SS) and duplex stainless steel (2205 DSS) under U‐bending deformation is comparatively investigated. This study highlights the effects of differences in inclusions and matrix between 304 SS and 2205 DSS with regard to the metastable pitting behavior under tensile and compressive deformation. The results show that the pit initiation frequency of 304 SS increases in the order: tensile < as‐received < compressive; in contrast, the initiation frequency of 2205 DSS increases in the order: as‐received < tensile < compressive. In addition, tensile and compressive deformation change the preferential initiation sites of metastable pitting in 2205 DSS. It is proposed that the types of transient signals can be comprehensively and objectively distinguished by the two parameters (t
g/t
rep) and [(I
p/Q
g):(I
p/Q
rep)]. The correlation relationship between transient signals and pitting morphologies is clarified by cluster analysis. Both tensile and compressive deformations promote the growth of a few metastable pits, thus increasing the transition probability from metastability to stability. Overall, both tensile and compressive deformations are detrimental to the pitting corrosion resistance of the experimental steels.
Inhibition Mechanism of MgO Addition on High‐Temperature Oxidation of Magnetite: Density Functional Theory and Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Methods Joint Research and Experimental Verification
Authors: Wang Yaozu , Zhang Jianliang , Niu Lele , Liu ZhengJian , Jiang HuiQing
Published: March 2023

In order to investigate and analyze the effect of MgO gangue on the surface adsorption and oxidation behavior of magnetite, the physicochemical properties of substances in the magnetite oxidation process are investigated in this study by using thermogravimetric experiments, density functional theory, and ab initio molecular dynamics methods (AIMD) methods. The oxidation mechanism of magnetite and the inhibition mechanism of magnesium oxide on the oxidation properties of magnetite are elucidated. The results of the thermogravimetric experimental study show that the initial oxidation temperature of magnetite tends to increase with the increase of MgO content. At the same time, the presence of MgO leads to the migration of oxidation reactions to the high‐temperature region. AIMD study shows that the presence of the gangue element Mg prolongs the adsorption and dissociation time of O2 molecules on the surface and reduces the interfacial chemical reaction rate of Fe3O4. Moreover, the chemical bonds formed in the system after doping Mg atom are more stable, which is not conducive to the migration of oxygen atoms between Fe3O4 crystal structures, thus affecting the comprehensive oxidation performance of minerals.
Continuous Hot‐Dip Galvanizing of Medium‐Manganese Third‐Generation Advanced High‐Strength Steels
Authors: Bhadhon Kazi M. H. , Pallisco Daniella M. , McDermid Joseph R.
Published: March 2023

The effects of process atmosphere oxygen partial pressure (pO2) on the preimmersion surface structures, interfacial reactive wetting products, and reactive wetting mechanisms of two prototype (0.15–0.20)C–(5.6–5.9)Mn–(0.4–1.9)Al–(1.1–1.5)Si–(0–0.6)Cr (wt%) third‐generation advanced high‐strength steels during continuous hot‐dip galvanizing are determined. In this study, the two‐stage thermal processing routes employed comprise an austenitization anneal followed by flash pickling and an intercritical anneal. All annealing treatments are conducted in a N2–5 vol% H2 process atmosphere with a controlled dew point. The substrates are austenitized at dew points of –30 or –10 °C, intercritically annealed at a dew point of –30, –10, or +5 °C, and then galvanized using a conventional 0.2 wt% Al (dissolved) bath. The preimmersion surfaces comprise a near‐pure Fe layer with dispersed nanoscaled oxide nodules. The primary reactive wetting mechanism is the direct wetting of the surface Fe, while oxide wetting, oxide cracking and liftoff, and oxide bridging by the liquid metal bath are secondary reactive wetting mechanisms. Zn ingress into the substrate via pores in the oxide network from selective dissolution during flash pickling is also noted. A well‐developed Fe2Al5–xZnx interfacial layer is observed for all metallic coating conditions. The resultant coatings show outstanding adherence after ASTM three‐point bend testing.
Alternatives Verfahren zur Ermittlung des Schadensäquivalenzfaktors nach prEN 1993‐2
Authors: Oberhaidinger Florian , Westenhöfer Annika , Mensinger Martin
Published: March 2023

Mit der Einführung der 2. Generation der DIN EN 1993‐2 – derzeit prEN 1993‐2 – steht den Planern in Anhang F ein zusätzliches Verfahren für die Ermittlung des Schadensäquivalenzfaktors λ von Straßenbrücken zur Verfügung. Dieses erweitert den Anwendungsbereich des vereinfachten Ermüdungslastmodells, berücksichtigt aktuelle europäische Verkehrsdaten und ermöglicht bei geringem Verkehrsaufkommen ( Nobs ≤ 0,5 ⋅ 106) v. a. für Kerbdetails im Feldbereich eine durchaus wirtschaftlichere Ermüdungsbemessung. Ein Vergleich des Verfahrens mit den aktuellen Regelungen unter Berücksichtigung des ARS22/2012 zeigt zum Teil signifikante Unterschiede bei der Ermittlung des λ‐Faktors. Für eine in Deutschland praxistaugliche Anwendung sollten den Planern daher normative Hinweise für die Auswahl des Verfahrens sowie für die Wahl eines geeigneten Verkehrsaufkommens Nobs und Fahrzeuggesamtgewichts Qm1 auf Basis aktueller Bestands‐ und Prognoseszenarien an die Hand gegeben werden. Das an der École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) entwickelte Verfahren wird derzeit in deutschen Fachgremien noch kontrovers diskutiert.
Integrale Spundwandwiderlager für modulare Verbundbrücken
Authors: Rittich Nils , Wolters Kevin , Feldmann Markus
Published: March 2023

Die alternde Bestandsinfrastruktur von Brückenbauwerken in Deutschland hat zu einem massiven Sanierungs‐ und Erneuerungsbedarf geführt. Im Sinne einer nachhaltigen Ressourcennutzung sind neben den reinen Herstellkosten auch die Lebenszyklus‐ und volkswirtschaftlichen Kosten zu beachten, was in bisherigen Entwurfskonzepten meist nur ungenügend berücksichtigt wird. Modulare Verbundbrücken mit integralen Spundwandwiderlagern bieten in dieser Hinsicht Vorteile. Da hierfür jedoch noch keine standardisierte Bemessungspraxis existiert, werden bisher nur einzelne Bestandteile dieser Bauweise in wenigen Pilotprojekten ausgenutzt. Um an dieser Stelle entgegenzuwirken, werden im Rahmen des FOSTA‐Forschungsprojekts P1521 zwei Konzepte zur Ausführung einer quasimonolithischen Verbindung zwischen Verbundfertigteilträgern und Spundwänden als Gründungselemente entwickelt. Um eine möglichst breite Anwendungspraxis zu erzielen, wird zum einen ein teilmomententragfähiger Anschluss für Spannweiten bis ca. 25 m, zum anderen ein vollmomententragfähiger Anschluss für größere Spannweiten bis ca. 45 m untersucht. Hierfür werden neben experimentellen Untersuchungen des Anschlussdetails in der Rahmenecke umfangreiche numerische Untersuchungen und Parameterstudien durchgeführt, um maßgebliche Einflussparameter auf die Steifigkeit und Tragfähigkeit des Details zu identifizieren. Die Auswertung der Versuche zeigt eine durchaus hohe Tragfähigkeit sowie ein gutmütiges Nachbruchverhalten der Verbindung.
Physical Properties of Thermoplastic Cornstarch/Hibiscus sabdariffa Fiber Obtained by Evaporation Casting
Authors: Ortuño‐López Mónica B. , Salazar‐Cruz Beatriz A. , del Real Alicia , Almendarez‐Camarillo Armando , López‐Barroso Juventino , Rivera‐Armenta José L. , Flores‐Hernández Cynthia G.
Published: March 2023

Hibiscus sabdariffa is a typical ingredient in a popular Mexican beverage, and a lot of waste is produced as a result. The fibers obtained from Hibiscus sabdariffa waste can be used as reinforcement in a natural composite. This research evaluates the influence and effect of different properties of fiber incorporated into a cornstarch matrix. The mechanical and thermomechanical performance is evaluated using tensile measurements and dynamic mechanical analysis. Thermal stability is analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis. The micrographics show a good incorporation of the bioreinforcement into the polymer matrix. The tensile measurements show that the fiber can be related to a slight decrease in Young´s modulus. The dynamic mechanical analysis results show that the composite with 4 wt% of reinforcement has a higher storage modulus (1139 MPa at 50 °C) than the starch matrix (854 MPa at −50 °C). According to the thermal stability of the composites is displaced to lower temperatures, which can suggest an effect of biodegradation acquired with the progressive addition of the biofibers. As a result, the composites obtained have been shown to be sustainable and friendly to the environment, and the films can offer an advantage for packaging‐type bags for foods.
Experimenting at an outreach science lab versus at school—Differences in students' basic need satisfaction, intrinsic motivation, and flow experience
Authors: Kirchhoff Tim , Randler Christoph , Großmann Nadine
Published: March 2023

All over the world, educational science outreach programs in which students can perform laboratory work have been developed. A common goal of these programs is to counteract students' decreasing motivation in STEM education. In Germany, several outreach science labs have been established over the last 20 years. It is assumed that the characteristics of these labs foster students' basic need satisfaction and qualities of motivation such as intrinsic motivation and flow. However, research in this field often lacks comparisons of motivation between the learning environmentsoutreach science labandschool. Thus, the current study investigated students' perceived need satisfaction (relatedness, competence, and autonomy), intrinsic motivation, and flow experience during experimentation at an outreach science lab (n = 231) and at school (n = 203). We found that experimentation in the two different learning environments resulted in a comparable degree of perceived autonomy and intrinsic motivation. However, differences in perceived relatedness, competence, and flow experience were found in favor of the students who experimented at the lab. Thus, visiting outreach science labs is especially beneficial for students' perception of relatedness, effectiveness, and enjoyment during experimentation.
Ion Polarimetry
Authors: Schmidke William
Published: March 2023

The degree of polarization of the beams must be precisely measured, both to enable development and optimization of the beams, and to normalize the spin dependent effects observed in experiments. Ion beam polarimetry is particularly challenging since the physics processes available for polarimetry are themselves the subject of active physics research. This chapter describes ion polarimetry as implemented at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC), the only high energy polarized proton collider.
Introduction
Authors: Niohuru Ilha
Published: March 2023

There is an acute scarcity of research and studies on the conditions of healthcare in African countries. According to Marincola and Kariuki (2020), 20% of the global disease burden falls on the shoulders of Africa, yet only 1% of worldwide scientific output focuses on African countries. Filling the epistemological gap is critical, for it will not only shine a light on our understanding of the realities of the continent, but also pave way for more engaged future studies. The investigation of existing healthcare conditions in Africa provides an indispensable basis for generating educated responses to the challenges that confront the continent as a whole and across its different localities.
Conclusion
Authors: Niohuru Ilha
Published: March 2023

In general, the healthcare systems in all eight studied countries are working toward a more positive future. This report confirms some challenges they face and discusses the future directions of these governments.