bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and Characterization of Quick‐Setting Poly Cyanoacrylate Foams
Authors: Moslehi Mohsen , Rajabi‐Rozbahani Ehsan , Mirzaei‐Mosbat Maryam
Published: November 2024

The primary aim of this project is to develop ultra‐high expansion and quick‐setting foams using poly (ethyl cyanoacrylate), poly (butyl cyanoacrylate), and poly (co‐ethyl‐butyl) cyanoacrylate. To achieve this, poly cyanoacrylate foams were created under various conditions, utilizing different monomers, initiators, foaming agents/solvents, and compositions. Several properties of the foams were assessed, including formation and expansion rates, mechanical strength, moisture absorption, thermal resistance, density, and morphology. The findings indicated that, under optimal conditions, the foams made from poly (ethyl cyanoacrylate), poly (butyl cyanoacrylate), and a copolymer of poly (ethyl cyanoacrylate‐co‐butyl cyanoacrylate) exhibited fast expansion times of approximately 0.9, 2, and 1.5 s, respectively. These foams demonstrated an average volume increase of about 35 times, 45 times, and 36 times compared to the raw materials. The average compressive strengths recorded were 6, 3, and 4 kg/cm2, while the average water absorption rates were 5%, 20%, and 7%, respectively.
The societal costs of avoidant personality disorder
Authors: Sveen Carl‐Aksel , Pedersen Geir , Wilberg Theresa , Kvarstein Elfrida Hartveit
Published: November 2024

The study aims to estimate the societal costs of avoidant personality disorder (AvPD). Cross‐sectional data on AvPD patients during 2017–2020 were retrieved from the quality register of the Norwegian Network for Personality Disorders. Cost estimations were based on a bottom‐up approach, using a structured interview covering the 6‐month period prior to initial assessment. Unit costs were retrieved from public records. The human capital approach was used to calculate productivity losses. Diagnoses were determined according to DSM‐5 by semi‐structured diagnostic interviews (SCID‐5‐PD). Mean societal costs were €19,378 for the total group (N = 410). The subgroup with a single diagnosis (n = 270) incurred €18,818, whereas the subgroup with at least one comorbid PD (n = 140) incurred €20,458. The difference between the two subgroups was not statistically significant. The largest cost component was productivity loss (69%), whereas health service costs constituted 31%. The main contributors to societal costs from the health service cost components were inpatient treatment (18%) and individual outpatient treatment (11%). In conclusion, societal costs for AvPD patients were high, on the same level as borderline PD, schizotypal PD, and schizophrenia, and higher than anxiety disorders, depression, and rheumatoid arthritis. In the future, development of effective AvPD treatment programs enhancing personality functioning and workforce participation is important in order reduce the cost of illness.
Narcissistic personality disorder and emotion regulation in psychiatric inpatients
Authors: Smith Ryan P. , Bouras John M. , Frazier Christopher , Rufino Katrina A. , Patriquin Michelle A.
Published: November 2024

Background

Emotional regulation difficulties in those with narcissistic personality disorder can cause problematic social and occupational functioning and inhibit treatment. Identifying which aspects of emotion regulation difficulties narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) patients have can help inform treatment.

Adult psychiatric inpatients (N = 108) were assessed on measures of emotion regulation. Propensity score matching (PSM) was utilized to match inpatients with a diagnosis of NPD (n = 54) to psychiatric peers on several criteria. An analysis of variance compared groups at admission and discharge. A moderation analysis was used to explore the effects of neuroticism across the treatment for NPD, and cut scores were used to explore the effect of neuroticism on NPD patients at admission and discharge.

NPD patients demonstrated more difficulties with impulse control, engaging in goal‐directed behaviours, clarity of emotions, emotional regulation strategies, and experiential avoidance at admission. NPD patients experienced difficulties with impulse control and acceptance of emotional responses at discharge. They were also more likely to end treatment before their peers. Neuroticism was a moderating factor in treatment of patients with NPD, with high neuroticism aligning with greater gains across treatment; however, high neuroticism NPD patients continued to report more difficulties with experiential avoidance and strategies for emotional regulation.

Limitations

Use of self‐report measures, reliance on DSM criteria for NPD diagnoses, and the generalizability to non‐inpatient populations.

Conclusions

NPD patients benefit from treatment but continue to struggle with aspects of emotion regulation. Addressing these aspects may help NPD patients receive more benefits from treatment.
Rock Glacier Kinematics in the Valles Calchaquíes Region, Northwestern Argentina, From Multi‐Temporal Aerial and Satellite Imagery (1968–2023)
Authors: Blöthe Jan Henrik , Falaschi Daniel , Vivero Sebastián , Tadono Takeo
Published: November 2024

In semiarid mountain ranges, rock glaciers constitute an important part of the periglacial environment. However, quantitative data on the state of rock glacier activity remain scarce. Here, we derive kinematic information on rock glaciers located in the Valles Calchaquíes region (24–25° S) in Argentina from optical feature tracking in historical aerial photographs, ALOS PRISM, and CBERS‐4A imagery for 175 landforms between 1968 and 2023. To overcome matching difficulties resulting from varying image quality and lighting conditions, we make use of directional filters to enhance feature‐tracking performance. We find the mean surface velocities exceeding the limit of detection (LoD) of our analysis to fall between 0.28 and 0.70 m yr−1 for all three epochs. Automatically deriving moving areas (MAs) with homogeneous flow fields from our data, we find between 46% and 25% of MAs are exceeding the LoD of our analysis. Analyzing data that covers more than five decades, we find largely unchanged rock glacier velocities, despite significant warming documented for the region. Our study provides the first quantitative information on rock glacier kinematics for multiple landforms in the Desert Andes of Argentina, contributing important information to assess the impacts of climate warming on this remote periglacial environment.
Timeline of Weaning in Pediatric Long‐Term Mechanical Ventilator Dependent Children: A Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Kanbar Lara J. , Dexheimer Judith W. , Benscoter Dan T. , Amin Raouf S. , Schuler Christine L. , Pajor Nathan
Published: November 2024

Background

Children with invasive long‐term mechanical ventilation (LTMV) dependence are a complex, heterogeneous population with wide variability in respiratory outcomes. Limited data exist on their ventilator weaning trajectories and respiratory characteristics as they progress toward liberation from the ventilator.

Objective

To describe a population of children with invasive LTMV dependence who have successfully liberated from ventilator support, focusing on ventilator parameters as potential early predictors of liberation.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of children who initiated chronic ventilator support at < 12 months of age at our institution, received ventilator support through a tracheostomy tube, were followed through our outpatient clinic, and were fully liberated from mechanical ventilation. Our primary outcome was age at liberation from ventilator support. Multiple covariates were described, including baseline descriptors, health system utilization descriptors, disease markers, and care milestones.

Results

Seventy‐eight patients were identified. The median age of tracheostomy was 3.8 [IQR: 3.0–4.8] months. The median age of first hospital discharge to home care was 9.3 months [IQR: 7.5–12], with a median of 44 hospital encounters after initial discharge. These patients were liberated at a median age of 23.9 [18.3–32.2] months. Age at liberation from the ventilator was highly variable within our institution.

Conclusion

The most significant variation in outcome was introduced after hospital discharge and appears to be largely independent of lung disease severity as indicated by ventilatory support. No single covariate was strongly correlated with liberation outcome. Further studies are needed to identify underlying pathophysiology that may contribute to the varied weaning trajectories to better define objective weaning strategies.
Therapies Used by Children With Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia: A Natural History Study
Authors: Gardner Robert A. , Ferkol Thomas W. , Davis Stephanie D. , Rosenfeld Margaret , Sagel Scott D. , Dell Sharon D. , Milla Carlos E. , Li Lang , Lin Feng‐Chang , Sullivan Kelli M. , Zariwala Maimoona A. , Knowles Michael R. , Leigh Margaret W. ,   for the Genetic Disorders of Mucociliary Clearance Consortium
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) management has not been systematically evaluated and is largely empirical.

Methods

Pediatric participants with PCD were enrolled in a prospective, longitudinal, multicenter, observational study. Therapies were recorded at annual visits and categorized by type. Age‐related trends in prevalence of therapies were described by serial cross‐sectional analyses. Generalized estimating equations analyzed covariates affecting prevalence of certain therapies and whether these covariates impacted oral antibiotic courses.

Results

A total of 137 participants completed 897 visits over 13 years. All but one received ≥ 1 antibiotic courses during study participation, most often cephalosporins (74%) or amoxicillin‐clavulanate (73%). Thirty‐one percent reported chronic azithromycin use. Per participant, there was an average of 2.3 (SD = 2.2) oral antibiotic courses annually. The rate of reported antibiotic courses at the 6 United States sites was 2.6 times higher compared to the Canadian site (p < 0.001). As patients got older, they were more likely to report use of amoxicillin‐clavulanate (p < 0.001), chronic azithromycin (p < 0.001), fluroquinolones (p < 0.001), inhaled steroids with long‐acting beta‐agonists (p = 0.010), and hypertonic saline (p < 0.001). Compared to outer dynein arm defects, those with inner dynein arm/microtubular disorganization defects reported increased use of chronic azithromycin (p = 0.011) and inhaled steroids (p = 0.015).

Discussion

Older participants and those with inner dynein arm/microtubular disorganization defects reported more therapies likely due to disease progression and more severe phenotypes, respectively. We report that a wide range of therapies are used in PCD without disease‐specific studies defining benefits and risks.
Impact of Alignments on the Accuracy of Protein Subcellular Localization Predictions
Authors: Gillani Maryam , Pollastri Gianluca
Published: November 2024

Alignments in bioinformatics refer to the arrangement of sequences to identify regions of similarity that can indicate functional, structural, or evolutionary relationships. They are crucial for bioinformaticians as they enable accurate predictions and analyses in various applications, including protein subcellular localization. The predictive model used in this article is based on a deep – convolutional architecture. We tested configurations of Deep N‐to‐1 convolutional neural networks of various depths and widths during experimentation for the evaluation of better‐performing values across a diverse set of eight classes. For without alignment assessment, sequences are encoded using one‐hot encoding, converting each character into a numerical representation, which is straightforward for non‐numerical data and useful for machine learning models. For with alignments assessment, multiple sequence alignments (MSAs) are created using PSI‐BLAST, capturing evolutionary information by calculating frequencies of residues and gaps. The average difference in peak performance between models with alignments and without alignments is approximately 15.82%. The average difference in the highest accuracy achieved with alignments compared with without alignments is approximately 15.16%. Thus, extensive experimentation indicates that higher alignment accuracy implies a more reliable model and improved prediction accuracy, which can be trusted to deliver consistent performance across different layers and classes of subcellular localization predictions. This research provides valuable insights into prediction accuracies with and without alignments, offering bioinformaticians an effective tool for better understanding while potentially reducing the need for extensive experimental validations. The source code and datasets are available at http://distilldeep.ucd.ie/SCL8/.
High gestational leucine level dampens WDPCP/MAPK signaling to impair the EMT and migration of cardiac microvascular endothelial cells in congenital heart defects
Authors: Hong Wei , You Guozhou , Luo Zhongming , Zhang Mingxiang , Chen Jian
Published: November 2024

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) represent one of the most prevalent categories of neonatal defects, and maternal dietary patterns have been linked to the risk of these conditions. Branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs), particularly leucine, are essential for various metabolic and physiological processes involved in heart development. In this study, we examined the molecular mechanisms through which elevated levels of leucine induce defects in cardiac microvascular endothelial cells. We collected plasma samples from healthy controls and neonatal patients with CHDs, employed a high‐leucine diet for pregnant female mice, and applied high‐leucine treatment in human cardiac microvascular endothelial cells (HCMECs). The impacts of high‐leucine levels on WD Repeat Containing Planar Cell Polarity Effector (WDPCP)/MAPK signaling axis were investigated in the cell and animal models. We reported heightened plasma leucine levels in neonatal patients with CHDs and observed that a high‐leucine diet in pregnant mice was associated with reduced expression of WDPCP and attenuated MAPK/ERK signaling. High‐leucine treatment in HCMECs impaired epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cell migration; however, overexpression of WDPCP or activation of MAPK exhibited a rescue effect. The upregulation of endomucin (EMCN) under high‐leucine conditions contributed to the impaired EMT and migratory capacity of HCMECs, and the WDPCP/MAPK signaling axis regulated EMCN overexpression in response to high‐leucine treatment. High levels of leucine in neonatal patients with CHDs may inhibit the WDPCP/MAPK axis, leading to an increase in EMCN expression that undermines the function of cardiac microvascular endothelial cells. These findings suggest the potential of targeting the WDPCP/MAPK axis as an intervention strategy for neonatal CHDs.
Robust Unknown Input Observer of Nonlinear Quadratic Systems With Application to Sensor Fault Estimation
Authors: Abdullah Ali
Published: November 2024

A robust unknown input observer (UIO) is designed for nonlinear quadratic systems (NQSs) affected by unknown input, disturbance, and noise. It is assumed that in this article the system states and their estimates are varying inside a hyper‐rectangle region of known vertices. Based upon satisfying the observer matching condition and the minimum phase condition (at every vertex of the hyper‐rectangle region of the system states and their estimates), a set of tractable linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) is derived for computing the design matrices of robust UIO. The design methodology of robust UIO is extended to NQSs affected by sensor fault, disturbance, and noise. By modeling the sensor fault as a system state with unknown sensor fault input, it is found that the observer matching condition is satisfied and only the minimum phase condition should be verified at every vertex of the hyper‐rectangle region of the system states and their estimates. Another set of tractable LMIs is derived to compute the design matrices of robust UIO, which simultaneously estimates the system's states and sensor faults. A practical example of a nonlinear quadratic Rössler circuit affected by sensor fault, disturbance, and noise is used to show the design steps and to verify the proposed robust UIO. Simulation results indicate the ability of the proposed robust UIO to simultaneously estimate the system's states and sensor faults of NQSs affected by disturbance and noise.
The future of decent work: Forecasting heat stress and the intersection of sustainable development challenges in India's brick kilns
Authors: Boyd Doreen S. , Jackson Bethany , Sparks Jessica Decker , Foody Giles M. , Girindran Renoy , Gosling Simon , Trodd Zoe , Ni Bhriain Laoise , Rodriguez‐Huerta Edgar
Published: November 2024

The impacts of climate change‐induced heat stress on workers are most prevalent in sectors with decent work deficits and this requires consideration for sustainable development. This paper focuses on the informal economy of brick kilns in India, a sector reliant on piece‐rate payments to its migrant labour force. We forecast to 2050, through satellite mapping and climate modelling, the number of days with extreme heat, loss of labour capacity, and impact on annual brick production. The high spatial coincidence shown between kiln density and intensity of increase in the number of days of extreme heat, leading to a reduction in labour capacity and brick production, has implications for workers and supply chains. We suggest that as kilns, objects of sustainable development goal intersectionality, become more environmentally sustainable, monitored and regulated, labour, and health conditions should improve and adapting to decent work in the face of climate change becomes more achievable.
Molecular Docking Simulation and ADMET/Pharmacokinetic Screening of Newly Designed 2‐(2‐(aryl)‐4‐oxo‐4,5‐dihydrothiazol‐5‐yl)acetohydrazides as Potential Antitubercular Agents
Authors: Sajid Zaroon , Akhtar Tashfeen , Ahmad Khalil , Haroon Muhammad
Published: November 2024

The in silico approach is a smart strategy to identify the potential of a compound to be biologically active against a target disease and to design a more efficient drug candidate. In this work, in silico molecular docking simulation of twenty two (22) newly designed 2‐(2‐(aryl)‐4‐oxo‐4,5‐dihydrothiazol‐5‐yl)acetohydrazides against DNA gyrase subunit B (Gyr B) is performed using AutoDock Vina. The majority of the designed molecules were found to have a binding affinity higher than the moxifloxacin standard drug. The top five scaffolds with the highest binding affinity (ranging from −6.5 to −7.0 kcal/mol) were chosen as the lead depending on the better orientation of the pose and H‐bond interactions. The ADME and toxicity profiles of the selected scaffolds were assessed through SwissADME and Pro‐Tox II, providing valuable insights into their potential safety and efficacy. The chosen compounds had excellent pharmacokinetic characteristics, including low toxicity, good oral bio‐availability, and acceptable GI absorption. The results suggest that the title compounds possess significant potential as lead molecules for the development of novel therapeutics against multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis, providing valuable insights for medicinal chemists and pharmaceutical professionals to design and synthesize novel drug candidates with improved efficacy.
Advanced Drug Delivery Systems for Topical Insulin in Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Barkhordari Sheida , Shahi Farangis , Khonakdar Hossein Ali
Published: November 2024

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition characterized by impaired insulin production or utilization, leading to serious complications such as diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). DFUs are chronic wounds with high levels of inflammatory cytokines, arterial occlusion, and persistent infection, often resulting in significant morbidity. Traditional treatment methods, including debridement, offloading, and infection control, have shown limited success, prompting the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. Insulin, known for its role in glucose metabolism, also possesses wound‐healing properties by promoting cell proliferation, protein synthesis, and modulating inflammation. However, systemic insulin administration is not ideal due to hypoglycemia risks and difficulties in achieving therapeutic concentrations at wound sites. This review focuses on advanced drug delivery systems for the topical application of insulin in wound dressings. Various delivery platforms, including hydrogels, nanoparticles, liposomes, and microemulsions have been developed to optimize insulin bioavailability, protect it from degradation, and ensure controlled release. These systems aim to enhance the management of diabetic wounds by addressing the multifactorial nature of wound healing complications in diabetic patients. The review provides a comprehensive overview of current advancements, evaluates the efficacy of these systems in preclinical and clinical studies, and discusses the challenges and future perspectives in this field. By highlighting the potential of these innovative approaches, this review underscores the promise of advanced topical insulin delivery systems in improving diabetic wound management and patient outcomes.
Reprogrammed Lung Metastasis Immunodeficiency via Targeted Penetrated Delivery of M1 Macrophage‐Wrapped NanoCubes‐Mediated T Cell Infiltration
Authors: Wang Kang‐Li , Li Cheng‐Han , Huang Pin‐Xuan , Liu Hsiu‐Ching , Yalamandala Bhanu Nirosha , Pan Wan‐Chi , Iao Hoi Man , Hu Shang‐Hsiu
Published: November 2024

The infiltration of cytotoxic T lymphocytes holds promise for suppressing even the most resilient metastatic tumors in immunotherapy. Polarizing tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) and remodeling the immune‐deficient tumor microenvironment (TME) can enhance T lymphocyte recruitment and infiltration. However, the immune privilege and low immunogenic responses of these aggressive tumor clusters often limit lymphocyte recruitment. Here, an M1 macrophage membrane‐coated iron oxide nanoparticle (IO@MM) double as a tumor‐penetrated agent and naïve M0 macrophage to M1 polarizer is developed for lung metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) immunotherapy. At the tumor site, IO@MM combined with resiquimod (R848) increased the immune cell infiltration, turning the “Cold” TME into an immune‐activating “Hot” one. Together with self‐cascade immunotherapy, IO@MM with R848 promotes tumor release of damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). At the same time, IO@MM uses the membrane as an antigen reservoir and provides autologous DAMPs to retain dendritic cells. This IO@MM effectively inhibits tumors and improves survival rate as an immunomodulator in lung metastasis.
Constructing Nitrogen‐Coordinated Single Atom Catalysts via Bond‐Plucking Strategy for Oxidation of Benzene
Authors: Wang Xuejing , Yang Lihua , Li Jian , Yin Zhongqian , Chen Yao , Tian Qing , Yang Yingchun , Liu Huifang , Zhang Lianbing
Published: November 2024

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) with nitrogen‐coordinated active centers feature unique electronic and geometric structures and thus show high catalytic activity for various industrial reactions. Searching for operable synthesis protocols to accurately devise SACs is vital but remains challenging because commonly used high‐temperature pyrolysis always causes unpredictable structural changes and inhomogeneous single‐atom sites. Herein, a mild bond‐plucking strategy is reported to construct atomically dispersed Cu supported on graphene‐liked C3N4 (g‐C3N4) under lower than 100 °C, and Cu foam is used as the source of metal. When g‐C3N4 closely coats the surface of Cu foam, Cu0 atoms on Cu foam transfer electrons to nitrogen on g‐C3N4 due to the strong Lewis acbase interaction, simultaneously forming Cuδ+ (0 < δ < 2) and Cu─N bonds. Subsequently, g‐C3N4 nanosheets are exfoliated out from the surface of Cu foam, eventually obtaining a well‐defined Cu single atoms/g‐C3N4 (Cu SAs/g‐C3N4) catalyst with atomically dispersed Cu‐N3 moieties. Cu SAs/g‐C3N4 serves as a highly effective and durable catalyst toward the oxidation of benzene to phenol at 60 °C, with a conversion of 65.1% and selectivity of 97.6% after 12 h. The findings pave a new way to construct well‐defined SACs at low costs, promoting large‐scale production and industrial application.
Cellulose Nanocrystal Composite Membrane Enhanced with In Situ Grown Metal–Organic Frameworks for Osmotic Energy Conversion
Authors: Wang Xiuxiu , Li Minmin , Xiong Yuting , Qin Haijuan , Li Qiongya , Zhang Fusheng , Yu Yong‐Liang , Qing Guangyan
Published: November 2024

Access to clean and renewable energy, osmotic energy from salinity gradient difference, for example, is central to the sustainability of human civilization. Despite numerous examples of nanofluidic membranes for osmotic energy conversion, one produced from abundant and renewable biomass resources remains largely unexplored. In this work, cotton‐derived cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are employed to fabricate a membrane by self‐assembly with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and subsequent in situ growth of metal–organic framework (MOF), UiO‐66‐(COOH)2, to provide an example. The composite membrane exhibits excellent mechanical strength and toughness due to the long chains and hydrogen bonding interactions of PVA. The incorporation of UiO‐66‐(COOH)2 endows the composite membrane with abundant nano‐ and subnano‐sized ion transport channels, resulting in a 150% increase in ion conductance, while also providing superior cation selectivity through collaboration with the sulfated CNCs. The composite membrane with 27.4% MOF content can achieve an osmotic energy conversion performance of 5.10 W m−2 under a 50‐fold KCl gradient condition and a monovalent cation selectivity of ≈16 for K+/Mg2+. This work presents a solution for harvesting renewable osmotic energy by constructing nanofluidic membranes using plentiful renewable biomass materials and a simple, low‐emission fabrication procedure.
Waste‐To‐Energy: Sustainable Triboelectric Stimulating System Constructed by Bone Gelatin Based Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Crop Growth
Authors: Gao Dangge , Wu Haoyuan , Lyu Bin , Zheng Chi , Zhou Yingying , Ma Jianzhong
Published: November 2024

The misuse of synthetic chemicals such as pesticides and fertilizers harms the environment and human health. Abandoning them risks global food shortages. Urgent eco‐friendly alternatives are needed for food production without excessive synthetic chemicals. To respond to this challenge, an innovative approach uses POSS polymer (PA) to modify waste bone gelatin (BG), constructinging a biodegradable triboelectric nanogenerator (PAG‐TENG) tailored for the triboelectric stimulating system for seed germination (PTSS). Amide groups of PA improve the electron supplying capacity of BG and 3D cage structure captures and transfers charges of BG, thereby improving the output performance of PAG‐TENG. The spatial electrostatic field formed by PAG‐TENG promotes seed germination when subjected to pressure changes in the environment. Hence output performance of PAG‐TENG is improved from 52.34 V and 40.25 nA to 247.15 V and 482.12 nA, the sensitivity is 14.4957 V*kPa−1. It maintains initial stable performance after the 6000 cycles of testing. Besides, the prepared PAG‐TENG has good toughness, translucency, and degradability. Treated by the high voltage electrostatic field of PTSS, peas' germination rate remarkably increased by ≈27%. This work realizes the high‐value utilization of waste resource BG, and provides a novel direction for the development of intelligent agriculture.
Self‐Healing and Antifreezing/Antidrying Conductive Eutectohydrogel‐Based Biosignal Monitoring Multisensors with Integrated Supercapacitor
Authors: Lee Jinyoung , Kim Somin , Kim Jung Wook , Kim Jiyoon , Choi Yeonji , Park Mihyeon , Kim Dong Sik , Lee Hanchan , Kim Seojin , Kim Yongju , Ha Jeong Sook
Published: November 2024

A novel self‐healing and antifreezing/antidrying conductive eutectohydrogel, ideal for wearable multifunctional sensors and supercapacitors, is reported. Conductive eutectohydrogel with self‐healing and facilely tunable mechanical performance is obtained by incorporation of trehalose and phytic acid as reversible cross‐linkers into a polyacrylamide network, forming the dynamic hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions. Furthermore, combined use of deep eutectic solvent with water ensures the air stability as well as the antifreezing/antidrying characteristics. The synthesized eutectohydrogel exhibits a self‐healing efficiency of 90.7% after 24 h at room temperature, Young's modulus of 140.9 kPa, and strain at break of 352.8%. With the eutectohydrogel as a versatile platform, self‐healing strain and temperature sensors, electrocardiogram electrodes, and supercapacitor are fabricated, recovering the device performance after self‐healing from complete bisection and exhibiting stable performance over a wide temperature range from −20 to 50 °C. With a vertically integrated patch device of supercapacitor and strain sensor attached onto skin, various body movements are successfully detected using the energy stored in the supercapacitor, without performance degradation even after self‐healing from complete bisection of the full patch device. This work demonstrates high potential application of the synthesized eutectohydrogel to flexible wearable devices featuring durability and longevity.
Extreme Toughening of Conductive Hydrogels Through Synergistic Effects of Mineralization, Salting‐Out, and Ion Coordination Induced by Multivalent Anions
Authors: Luo Hongmei , Jiang Lichao , Guo Yuxin , Li Min , Hu Longyu , Wu Hao , Cui Wei , Ran Rong
Published: November 2024

Developing conductive hydrogels with both high strength and fracture toughness for diverse applications remains a significant challenge. In this work, an efficient toughening strategy is presented that exploits the multiple enhancement effects of anions through a synergistic combination of mineralization, salting‐out, and ion coordination. The approach centers on a hydrogel system comprising two polymers and a cation that is highly responsive to anions. Specifically, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan quaternary ammonium (HACC) are used, as PVA benefits from salting‐out effects and HACC undergoes ion coordination with multivalent anions. After just 1 h of immersion in an anionic solution, the hydrogel undergoes a dramatic improvement in mechanical properties, increasing by more than three orders of magnitude. The optimized hydrogel achieves high strength (26 MPa), a high Young's modulus (45 MPa), and remarkable fracture toughness (67.3 kJ m−2), representing enhancements of 860, 3200, and 1200 times, respectively, compared to its initial state. This breakthrough overcomes the typical trade‐off between stiffness and toughness. Additionally, the ionic conductivity of the hydrogel enables reliable strain sensing and supports the development of durable supercapacitors. This work presents a simple and effective pathway for developing hydrogels with exceptional strength, toughness, and conductivity.
Reinforced Electric Field for All‐Oxide‐Based Transparent Photovoltaics by Gradient Doping Profiles
Authors: Ghosh Shuvaraj , Patel Malkeshkumar , Park Min‐Joon , Youn Sung‐Min , Lee Junghyun , Choi Chanhyuk , Nguyen Thanh Tai , Jeong Chaewhan , Kim Joondong
Published: November 2024

The transparent photovoltaic (TPV) device offers onsite power production with greater freedom for integrated applications, in which doping strategy helps to boost device performance. This study explores the effects of gradient doping with titanium (Ti) in zinc oxide (ZnO) to enhance the TPV device performance. By implementing a negative slope in Ti concentration from the substrate to the surface (i.e., reverse‐graded doping), a significant reduction is demonstrated in recombination processes due to the reinforcement in the built‐in electrical field, resulting in an improved photovoltaic efficiency. Additionally, the devices exhibit an average visible transparency value of 68.4% across the 400–825 nm wavelength range, reaching a maximum power conversion efficiency value of 6.74% under 365 nm illumination. These findings underscore the potential of graded Ti‐doping in ZnO to optimize TPV devices for applications in building‐integrated photovoltaics and photo‐communication, contributing to advancements in sustainable energy technologies.
Single‐Walled Carbon‐Nanotube‐Based Semitransparent Wide‐Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cell for Four‐Terminal Tandems
Authors: Elakshar Aly , Parfenova Olga R. , Dzhouse‐Ivanina Sofia A. , Novikov Artyom V. , Goldt Anastasia E. , Gladush Yuriy G. , Krasnikov Dmitry V. , Terukov Eugene I. , Nasibulin Albert G.
Published: November 2024

Photovoltaics play a crucial role in the global transition toward sustainable energy sources. As the demand for more efficient and cost‐effective solar technologies grows, innovative materials and designs are explored by researchers to enhance solar cell performance. Herein, the potential of single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) thin films as transparent electrodes in wide‐bandgap mixed halide perovskite solar cells is assessed. SWCNTs synthesized by the aerosol chemical deposition method are employed as the back electrode. The transparency of the perovskite cells makes them promising candidates for tandem top cells in a multi‐junction solar device. In these experiments, it is demonstrated that perovskite cells with SWCNT electrodes achieve a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.63% in the reverse scan. When combined with a silicon bottom cell (PCE of 22.50%) in a tandem configuration, the overall efficiency reaches 24.37% despite a decrease in the bottom cell's performance due to shadowing effects. In these results, the potential of SWCNT electrodes in developing high‐efficiency tandem solar cells is highlighted. In this research, by combining the advantages of perovskite technology with the unique properties of SWCNTs, new avenues for advancing photovoltaic performance and contributing to the broader goal of sustainable energy production are opened.
Functional carbon‐based materials for structural health monitoring and protection of concrete structures
Authors: Górski Marcin , Safuta Małgorzata
Published: November 2024

In the late 1980s, research began on the functionalization of concrete in the context of self‐monitoring. For this purpose, conductive functional fillers placed in a cement matrix were used. The aim of this article is to present an overview of historical solutions, and the latest trends related to the use of conductive materials, ranging from the detection of structural failures to continuous monitoring of deformations. The article presents a critical review of self‐monitoring methods being developed, including concrete with carbon fibers and nanofibers or conductive carbon nanomaterials (such as carbon nanotubes, graphene‐family materials and nanocarbon black), cementitious, polymeric, and AAM (Alkali Activated Materials) repair materials with crack detection features, FRP‐based smart‐strengthening solutions, and monitoring reinforcement rebars. Measurement methods and their development toward in situ applications are also discussed. The paper highlights the major challenges within the field as well as future development paths for the use of multifunctional concrete composites in civil engineering. In particular, the article indicates directions for further research on biomimetic solutions, including those in the areas of monitoring of other non‐mechanical parameters, using functional materials for electrochemical protection of structures, wireless communication, integration with the BIM environment, energy harvesting, actuation, and others.
Exploring Social Media Use in Cross‐Border E‐Commerce and the Internationalization Process: A Comparative Study of Cross‐Country and Firm Size
Authors: Knösel Cosima Tabea , Cheng Colin C. J. , Shiu Eric C.
Published: November 2024

Prior research on social media has considerably advanced our understanding of how social media use affects international market performance. However, extant social media literature has not addressed why social media use stimulates positive results in modern cross‐border e‐commerce and how it evolves in the internationalization process. Overlooking the role of social media use in the above issues has limited our understanding of international business management. Drawing on the Uppsala model, this study used the case study method in the form of a cross‐country comparative study including six large enterprises (LEs) and six small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from Germany, Thailand, and Taiwan, respectively. The results provide compelling evidence that the way of using social media significantly differs in cross‐border e‐commerce among countries, while the main internationalization process differs fundamentally between LEs and SMEs. As such, this study provides novel theoretical insights to scholars and empirical implications to practitioners.
Chronic Exposure of Zebrafish to Iron and Aluminum: Evaluation of Reversal and Generational Transposition of Behavioral, Histopathological, and Genotoxic Changes
Authors: Rodrigues Gabriela Zimmermann Prado , Finkler Mariana , dos Santos Thainá Garbino , Kayser Juliana Machado , Lima Diego Del Duca , Burghausen Jorge Henrique , de Oliveira Diogo Losch , Ziulkoski Ana Luiza , Gehlen Günther
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to report the effects of chronic exposure of zebrafish exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of 0.5, 2.4, and 5.0 mg L−1 iron (Fe) and 0.2, 0.4, and 2.0 mg L−1 aluminum (Al). We also evaluated the reversal and generational transposition (F1) of possible histopathological, behavioral, and genotoxic changes in the species. Locomotion changes that may have been caused by the increase in the number of apoptotic cells and in the telencephalic mitochondrial activity were observed especially after the 30 days exposure to Al and persisted after recovery (30 days). We also observed histopathological changes, such as an increase in the number of intestinal goblet cells, even after the recovery period in these animals. Our results also showed that the Fe concentrations used were insufficient to cause genotoxicity, behavioral and intestinal epithelium changes. The adult offspring (F1) of animals exposed to Al showed changes in locomotion and in the amount of goblet cells, demonstrating that even in low concentrations this pollutant can harm subsequent generations in the aquatic biota. Animals demonstrate, in general, greater tolerance to Fe which may be related to the physiological demand of this metal by the body. Even so, all concentrations of both metals that caused some change in the species represent Brazilian environmental occurrences or Brazilian legislation. It highlights the need for updating the guidelines and constant monitoring of aquatic environments, since even in the face of a hypothetical decontamination of the environment, some changes could persist and affect different trophic levels.
Soybean genomics research community strategic plan: A vision for 2024–2028
Authors: Stupar Robert M. , Locke Anna M. , Allen Doug K. , Stacey Minviluz G. , Ma Jianxin , Weiss Jackie , Nelson Rex T. , Hudson Matthew E. , Joshi Trupti , Li Zenglu , Song Qijian , Jedlicka Joseph R. , MacIntosh Gustavo C. , Grant David , Parrott Wayne A. , Clemente Tom E. , Stacey Gary , An Yong‐qiang Charles , Aponte‐Rivera Jose , Bhattacharyya Madan K. , Baxter Ivan , Bilyeu Kristin D. , Campbell Jacqueline D. , Cannon Steven B. , Clough Steven J. , Curtin Shaun J. , Diers Brian W. , Dorrance Anne E. , Gillman Jason D. , Graef George L. , Hancock C. Nathan , Hudson Karen A. , Hyten David L. , Kachroo Aardra , Koebernick Jenny , Libault Marc , Lorenz Aaron J. , Mahan Adam L. , Massman Jon M. , McGinn Michaela , Meksem Khalid , Okamuro Jack K. , Pedley Kerry F. , Rainey Katy Martin , Scaboo Andrew M. , Schmutz Jeremy , Song Bao‐Hua , Steinbrenner Adam D. , Stewart‐Brown Benjamin B. , Toth Katalin , Wang Dechun , Weaver Lisa , Zhang Bo , Graham Michelle A. , O'Rourke Jamie A.
Published: November 2024

This strategic plan summarizes the major accomplishments achieved in the last quinquennial by the soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] genetics and genomics research community and outlines key priorities for the next 5 years (2024–2028). This work is the result of deliberations among over 50 soybean researchers during a 2‐day workshop in St Louis, MO, USA, at the end of 2022. The plan is divided into seven traditional areas/disciplines: Breeding, Biotic Interactions, Physiology and Abiotic Stress, Functional Genomics, Biotechnology, Genomic Resources and Datasets, and Computational Resources. One additional section was added, Training the Next Generation of Soybean Researchers, when it was identified as a pressing issue during the workshop. This installment of the soybean genomics strategic plan provides a snapshot of recent progress while looking at future goals that will improve resources and enable innovation among the community of basic and applied soybean researchers. We hope that this work will inform our community and increase support for soybean research.
Do Intravenous Butaphosphan and Cyanocobalamin Combination Affect Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Profile of Dairy Goats During Their Transition Period?
Authors: Zare Asghar , Chalmeh Aliasghar , Pourjafar Mehrdad , Amirian Armin
Published: November 2024

Background

Insulin resistance during early lactation in goats has been a topic of interest for researchers, as addressing this issue can significantly improve their metabolic health.

Objectives

To investigate the potential of butaphosphan and cyanocobalamin in controlling insulin resistance, we conducted a study with the hypothesis that this combination may mitigate insulin resistance in dairy goats.

Methods

Ten adult goats were divided equally into two groups: Ctrl and B+C. The Ctrl group received 6 mL of normal saline, while the second group was administered 6 mL of 10% butaphosphan and 0.005% cyanocobalamin on days 21, 20, 19, and 12, 11, 10, and 3, 2, 1 before parturition. On the 10th and 20th days after parturition, blood samples were gathered to analyze the levels of different metabolites and evaluate insulin resistance/sensitivity through an intravenous glucose tolerance test and surrogate indices. Body condition scores, milk production, and weight gain of the kids were also recorded during the study.

Results

Although the B+C group showed slightly higher insulin responsiveness than the Ctrl group in the intravenous glucose tolerance test, but the difference was insignificant. Comparably, no significant differences were noticed in the remaining metabolic indicators amidst the Ctrl and B+C groups.

Conclusions

The lack of substantial differences can be attributed to the limited sample size and the prescribed drug dosage. Further investigations with higher doses exceeding 6 mL are warranted to explore potential effects. Additionally, species‐specific differences in ruminants might exist, and caprine metabolism of the compound might differ from that of bovine and ovine. Consequently, we recommend conducting more studies in this field.
Dietary Supplements Improve the Growth Performance and Carcass Yields of Indigenous Sheep in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis Study
Authors: Ebrahim Hussen , Alemayehu Kefyalew
Published: November 2024

Despite the large number of sheep in Ethiopia, their productivity remains low, mainly due to inadequate and poor‐quality feed. Therefore, this systematic review and meta‐analysis study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary supplements on the growth performance and carcass yield indices of indigenous sheep in Ethiopia. This study included a total of 21 studies that used 533 sheep from 11 breeds. We used Meta‐Essentials Version 1.5 to determine the effect sizes in a mixed‐effects model at p < 0.05. The current meta‐analyses revealed that dietary supplements had a positive and significant effect (p of Z ≤ 0.001) on the total dry matter intake (Hedges' g = 6.84 g/day/head), final body weight (Hedges' g = 3.65 kg/head), average daily gain (Hedges' g = 3.59 g/head), feed conversion efficiency (Hedges' g = 0.72 g/g), slaughter weight (Hedges' g = 2.56 kg/head) and hot carcass (Hedges' g = 2.73 kg/head) of sheep compared to the control. The meta‐analysis suggests that sheep of different breeds and sexes that were fed supplemental diets responded differently. In addition, the subgroup analysis declared that dietary supplementation of legumes resulted in a higher magnitude of effect sizes for all response variables in sheep in comparison to sheep supplemented with concentrate and browse. We detected diverse heterogeneity across studies for all response variables that ranged between 0% and 96.65%. It can be concluded that dietary supplements had a positive and significant impact on feed efficiency, growth performance and carcass yield in indigenous sheep, particularly Afar sheep, followed by Arsi Bale and Washera sheep, in Ethiopia.
Prelude: A Fresh Look
Authors: Herbst Gernot , Madonski Rafal
Published: November 2024

Several aspects make this book different, and doing things not the usual way is its recurring motif. Therefore, in this chapter, we focus on establishing those unique aspects of the book that constitute its claimed titular “fresh look.” This expression has a double meaning here. On the one hand, it refers to the active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) as this unorthodox approach in the control landscape and on the other to the fresh look at how ADRC can be introduced to those interested in it. We will also answer here some basic important questions like what exactly is in the book, why is it constructed the way it is, to whom the book is for, and what is the best way to use it depending on the reader’s background.
First Contact with ADRC
Authors: Herbst Gernot , Madonski Rafal
Published: November 2024

We strive to make the initial encounter with ADRC a smooth and pleasant experience for novices. Therefore, in this chapter, we will rely heavily on illustrative examples inspired by real plants. With such a “show, don’t tell” narration, we want to introduce the fundamental aspects of ADRC for some easily recognizable systems from engineering practice. We purposefully avoid complicated jargon and derivations here to give readers the gist of how the ADRC approach can be used to look at and solve various control problems. We deliberately focus on showing ad hoc solutions for first- and second-order plants as they are the most prevalent. Through the shown illuminative examples, we hope that you will not only start seeing a pattern in the design process of the ADRC methodology but also be intrigued enough about its simplicity and effectiveness to want to explore it further with this book.
Linear Active Disturbance Rejection Control
Authors: Herbst Gernot , Madonski Rafal
Published: November 2024

As the core of all other ADRC variants covered in this book, the linear continuous-time state-space form of active disturbance rejection control is introduced in this chapter. Generalizing the first- and second-order cases considered in Chap. 2, the structure of Nth-order linear ADRC is being discussed, consisting of observer and state-feedback controller. Equations for tuning both observer and controller are derived for the so-called bandwidth parameterization approach.