bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Fiber Treatment/Starch Plasticization on Structure and Mechanical Properties of Biomass Cushion Packaging Material
Authors: Li Fang Yi , Guan Kai Kai , Liu Peng , Li Jian Feng , Li Gang
Published: December 2013

Excellent state of material molding and microstructure can enhance the physical properties of biomass packaging material based fiber and starch efficiently. Therefore, the main raw materials were further processed in this study and processing technologies were improved accordingly. Corn starch was plasticized by ethylene glycol and glycerol. Straw fiber was further processed through washing with water and alkaline treatment. Foam molding tests were conducted according to the different treatment combinations, so were the tests of static compression, tensile properties and packages stacking. The results of quantitative analysis showed that the treated materials had a more notable influence on the comprehensive performance. The optimum processing technology about raw materials corresponding to specific mechanical property is obtained according to the tests analysis. Through SEM analysis, the influence mechanism of starch, fiber processing on the micro-structure of material and outer physical and chemical properties were also studied.
Experimental Research on the Performance of PSA and other Fiber Filter
Authors: Ma Cheng Yu , Hou Wei Li , Lin Yong
Published: December 2013

The paper presents the comparative test among the high temperature resistant filter (such as PSA fiber, PMIA fiber, PI fiber) of the bag filter about their heat resistance and the corrosion resistance. The research test the breaking strength, the breaking elongation and the molecular structure of those fiber. Experiments show that the breaking strength of the PSA increase slightly under the high temperature up to 250°C,while the breaking strength of the PMIA fiber decrease 75.26% and the breaking strength of PI fiber decrease 65.57%. After being soaked in the sulfuric acid solution for 96 hours, the strength retentions of PSA, PMIA-1 and PMIA-2 are 42%, 18.85% and 46.71%. The result of testing by FTIR shows that the amide bond of the PSA fiber fracture and generate phenolics and carboxylic acid after the chemical treatment, which is the main reason why the fiber strength of PSA decrease after the acid and alkaline corrosion.
The Preparation and Characterization of Spherical Cellulose Aerogels with Core-Shell Structure
Authors: Wu Peng , Liu Zhi Ming , Li Jian
Published: December 2013

The spherical cellulose aerogels with core-shell structure were prepared through hanging drop method in a regenerated non-polar solution. The procedures of these aerogels' preparation include solidification in the acetic acid solution to form a hydrogel, solvent exchange with t-butyl alcohol and freeze drying. The spherical cellulose aerogels were obtained with different cellulose solution concentration, and characterized with BET analysis and electron microscopy. Their density and porosity varied linearly with different cellulose content in the initial solution. And the gel shrinkage upon drying was limited to, on average, 7.3%. The density of spherical cellulose aerogel could be reached down to 0.14 g·cm-3 with high specific surface areas up to 210 m2·g-1. The mesopores' diameter of spherical cellulose aerogel at the highest peak in the size distribution curve is focus on 15nm.
Research on Effect Factors of Current Efficiency in the Process of Sponge Titanium Production by Electrolytic Method
Authors: Ma Guang Qiang , Zou Ming , Wang Qi Ling
Published: December 2013

This paper systematically analyzes the various factors that affect the current efficiency in the process of sponge titanium production by vacuum molten salt electrolysis method. The research result shows that firstly, when electrolysis is undertaken in CaCl2 molten salt system under the condition that the pressure is under 101Pa, temperature is at 850°C, space between electrodes is 5 cm, cathodic current density is 1.05 A.cm-2 and anodic current density is 0.8A.cm-2 , the reoxidation of sponge titanium can be effectively avoided, the loss of electric current can be reduced and current efficiency can be greatly improved. Secondly, current efficiency can be greatly improved when mix molten salt system CaCl2+A is adopted, which can greatly reduce the electrolysis temperature and the resistance of molten salt. Thirdly, current efficiency can be greatly improved through selecting appropriate vacuum degree, appropriate molten salt system, appropriate space between electrodes, appropriate current density; in addition, keeping tidy reduction cell inside and adopting high-purity molten salt and raw material TiO2 are another ways for current efficiency improvement.
Advance of Ge/Si Quantum Dot Infrared Photodetector
Authors: He Peng , Wang Chong , Yang Jie , Yang Yu
Published: December 2013

The generation of quantum dots (QDs), the advantages and disadvantages of quantum dot infrared photodetector (QDIP) are briefly reviewed. Typical techniques for fabricating ordered Ge/Si QDs, the application of Ge/Si QDIP in optical communication and thermal imaging and the structure optimization are described. Finally, the key problems for improving the properties of Ge/Si QDs and Ge/Si QDIP, future trends and prospects are discussed.
The Ferroelectric Field Effect Transistor Simulation and Analysis
Authors: Wang Qiang , Zhang Sun Hao Chen , Yu Zheng Dong , Hua Guo Ran
Published: December 2013

A ferroelectric field effect transistor (FFET) with the metal/ferroelectric/ semiconductor (MFS) structure is designed and simulated. The simulation results show that the drain current at Vg=0 after polarized is decided by Pr and Pr/Ps. When increasing Pr, Id enhanced. When Pr/Ps decreases, Idincreases if the FFET is saturated. When a voltage (Vp=1.5v) is applied on the FFET, Id may be stable and not sensitive to the variation of Pr/Ps. This FFET stable output voltage is decided by Ec.
Structural Transformation Relationship for Hafnia Ferroelectric Phase
Authors: Xiao Hai Zhu , Ye Fei , Zhou Da Yu , Bai Fei Ming
Published: December 2013

The ferroelectricity of hafnia-based thin films with a dominant phase of orthorhombic Pca21 has been reported. However, the relationship of structural transformations between the orthorhombic Pca21 and other hafnia structures remains unclear. In this work, all the structures have been optimized. Then, the fluorite-related structures have been used to analyze the structural relationship. Calculations of the lattice energies and the relative atomic displacements between the structures suggest that the Pca21 phase may originate from the P42/nmc or Pbca phases.
Simulation Analysis and Benchmarking Validation of Magnetic, Electromagnetic and Hybrid Shields in Large Power Transformers
Authors: Li Yue Ning , Li Yong Gang , Cheng Zhi Guang
Published: December 2013

according to different theories the magnetic shunt, the electromagnetic shield and a combination of both in power transformer have protective shielding functions to mental components and decrease stray-field loss ( including eddy current loss and hysteresis loss), avoiding damage to insulation devices caused by partial overheating for overconcentration of the loss. This paper will build a 2D modeling and simulation which proves the improved platform measuring the the shield loss and flux density of the transformer product model can provide a more reasonable flux complementary condition. Three kinds of shield in the model will be calculated by 3-D model simulation to research and compare the loss and flux density of the magnetic shunt, the electromagnetic barrier and the hybrid shield, which is of significant analyzable and referable value for optimizing the design of magnetic shields in large power transformers.
A New Type Electrohydraulic Servo Valve Based on Magnetic Shape Memory Alloy
Authors: Tu Fu Quan , Mao Yang , Xu Ren Bo
Published: December 2013

In this paper, the magnetically controlled characteristic and shape variation mechanism magnetic shape memory alloys (MSMA) sample are studied through the servo valve actuator based on the MSMA. The MSMA is a new type of functional materials, which has huge driving force and large controllability displacement. The kind of actuator is designed by differential mode of MSMA, employing bias coils to generate biasing magnetic field and applying field coils to provide magnetic field which is controllable. The relationship between displacement of the new actuator and time is got by numerical simulation using Maxwell software. Finally, motivated by the simulation results, the rationality of structural design of the new type of actuator is validated.
Atomistic Study on the Structural Properties of GdFe2-xTx (T=Ti, Al) Compounds
Authors: Xiao Ling Ping
Published: December 2013

The structural properties of GdFe2-xTx (T=Ti, Al) and their hydrides are studied by using inter-atomic potentials based on Chens lattice inversion technique. The results show that GdFe2-xAlx crystallizes with the MgZn2 type phase in the range 0.35x0.7. And GdFe2-xTix crystallizes with the MgZn2 type phase has the lowest energy for 0x<0.17 and="" the="" tolerance="" is="" acceptable="" gdfe="" sub="">2-xTix compounds are stabilized in MgZn2 type phase with different Ti atoms content in the range 0.17<x0.6. Moreover, the calculated lattice constants coincide quite well with experimental values. All the results indicate the potentials are valid for studying the structural properties of the intermetallics.
Adipose Derived Stem Cells Characterization from Human Lipoaspirate: A Comparative Study
Authors: Sterodimas Aris , Kalodimou Vasiliki E. , Nicaretta Beatriz
Published: December 2013

Background Numerous studies have provided data on the efficacy of ADSCs, supporting their use in current and future clinical applications. This is the first study to our knowledge, which aims at comparing the cell viability and the absolute number of mesenchymal stem cells and ADSCs from three different approaches of preparing adipose tissue for autologous transplantation. Patients & MethodsAdipose tissue was taken from the hip/thigh region of 8 female donors undergoing liposuction. From every patient, there was sent three different fat samples: lipoaspirated fat decanted (A), lipoaspirated fat prepared by normal saline washing (B) and stromal enriched lipograft (C). Multi-parameter flow cytometry to determine the absolute number and viability of ADSCs was performed. ResultsThe mean absolute cell counts per gram of adipose tissue were 8.33x10⁶ in samples A and 5.97x10⁶ in sample C. In B samples the mean absolute cell counts per gram of adipose tissue were 2.13x10⁶. The presence of ADSCs specific markers in all the C samples showed high expression (> 95%) in the positive markers and low expression (< 2%) in the negative markers and are essential to validate the purity of adipose stem cells in a sample. ConclusionThe results obtained from the analysis of eight different donors of lipoaspirate indicate that the highest absolute number of viable adipose derived stem cells is found in the Stromal Enriched Lipograft (sample C). Their purity was confirmed by the high expression (> 95%) in the positive markers and low expression (< 2%) in the negative markers.
Numerical Analysis on Surface Ductile Fractures for Some Extrusion Conditions
Authors: Gagliardi Francesco , Citrea Teresa , Ambrogio Giuseppina , Filice Luigino
Published: December 2013

Extrusion processes can be utilized for production of parts characterized by complex shapes; furthermore, nowadays, the market needs are always more driving towards the manufacture of components with thinner thickness for weight and volume reduction. As a consequence, the process complexities are growing up but, nevertheless, quality and productivity have to be guaranteed by companies if they want to survive in an increasingly competitive society.In this work, a ductile criterion was utilized to highlight which variations due to thickness reduction can bring to superficial defects in extruded components. The study was carried out by using a suitable die geometry where thickness changes can be performed keeping constant the other geometrical variables. The die optimization was carried out by numerical simulations which were utilized for homogenizing the extruded velocity at the exit of the bearing zone. Different working conditions were numerically analyzed and geometrical die changes were performed to highlight their influences on the superficial integrity of the extruded parts.
Airborne observations of trace gases over boreal Canada during BORTAS: campaign climatology, air mass analysis and enhancement ratios
Authors: O'Shea S. J. , Allen G. , Gallagher M. W. , Bauguitte S. J.-B. , Illingworth S. M. , Le Breton M. , Muller J. B. A. , Percival C. J. , Archibald A. T. , Oram D. E. , Parrington M. , Palmer P. I. , Lewis A. C.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. In situ airborne measurements were made over eastern Canada in summer 2011 as part of the BORTAS experiment (Quantifying the impact of BOReal forest fires on Tropospheric oxidants over the Atlantic using Aircraft and Satellites). In this paper we present observations of greenhouse gases (CO2 and CH4) and other biomass burning tracers (CO, HCN and CH3CN), both climatologically and through case studies, as recorded on board the FAAM BAe-146 research aircraft. Vertical profiles of CO2 were generally characterised by depleted boundary layer concentrations relative to the free troposphere, consistent with terrestrial biospheric uptake. In contrast, CH4 concentrations were found to rise with decreasing altitude due to strong local and regional surface sources. BORTAS observations were found to be broadly comparable with both previous measurements in the region during the regional burning season and with reanalysed composition fields from the EU Monitoring Atmospheric Composition and Change (MACC) project. We use coincident tracer–tracer correlations and a Lagrangian trajectory model to characterise and differentiate air mass history of intercepted plumes. In particular, CO, HCN and CH3CN were used to identify air masses that have been recently influenced by biomass burning. Examining individual cases we were able to quantify emissions from biomass burning. Using both near-field (< 1 day) and far-field (> 1 day) sampling, boreal forest fire plumes were identified throughout the troposphere. Fresh plumes from fires in northwestern Ontario yield emission factors for CH4 and CO2 of 8.5 ± 0.9 g (kg dry matter)−1 and 1512 ± 185 g (kg dry matter)−1, respectively. We have also investigated the efficacy of calculating emission factors from far-field sampling, in which there might be expected to be limited mixing with background and other characteristic air masses, and we provide guidance on best practice and limitations in such analysis. We have found that for measurements within plumes that originated from fires in northwestern Ontario 2–4 days upwind, emission factors can be calculated that range between 1618 ± 216 and 1702 ± 173 g (kg dry matter)−1 for CO2 and 1.8 ± 0.2 and 6.1 ± 1 g (kg dry matter)−1 for CH4.
Dispersion of the Nabro volcanic plume and its relation to the Asian summer monsoon
Authors: Fairlie T. D. , Vernier J.-P. , Natarajan M. , Bedka K. M.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. We use nighttime measurements from the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) satellite, together with a Lagrangian trajectory model, to study the initial dispersion of volcanic aerosol from the eruption of Mt. Nabro (Ethiopia/Eritrea) in June 2011. The Nabro eruption reached the lower stratosphere directly, and dispersal of the plume in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS) was constrained initially by the Asian anticyclone, which prevails in the UTLS from the Mediterranean Sea to East Asia during boreal summer. CALIPSO detected aerosol layers, with optical properties consistent with sulfate, in the lower stratosphere above the monsoon convective region in South and South-East Asia within 10 days of the eruption. We show that quasi-isentropic differential advection in the vertically sheared flow surrounding the Asian anticyclone explains many of these stratospheric aerosol layers. We use Meteosat-7 data to examine the possible role of deep convection in the Asian monsoon in transporting volcanic material to the lower stratosphere during this time, but find no evidence that convection played a direct role, in contrast with claims made in earlier studies. On longer time scales, we use CALIPSO data to illustrate diabatic ascent of the Nabro aerosol in the lower stratosphere, at rates of ~10 K per month for the first two months after the eruption, falling to ~3 K per month after the Asian anticyclone dissipates. We attribute ~15% of this to self-lofting. We show that aerosol optical depth associated with the Nabro plume peaks in July; we find the associated radiative forcing is relatively small; top of atmosphere (TOA) radiative forcing peaks at ~1.6 W m−2 locally in July, ~10% of that reported for the impact of Pinatubo in 1991 and within observed interannual variability.
A glacial systems model configured for large ensemble analysis of Antarctic deglaciation
Authors: Briggs R. , Pollard D. , Tarasov L.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. This article describes the Memorial University of Newfoundland/Penn State University (MUN/PSU) glacial systems model (GSM) that has been developed specifically for large-ensemble data-constrained analysis of past Antarctic Ice Sheet evolution. Our approach emphasizes the introduction of a large set of model parameters to explicitly account for the uncertainties inherent in the modelling of such a complex system. At the core of the GSM is a 3-D thermo-mechanically coupled ice sheet model that solves both the shallow ice and shallow shelf approximations. This enables the different stress regimes of ice sheet, ice shelves, and ice streams to be represented. The grounding line is modelled through an analytical sub-grid flux parameterization. To this dynamical core the following have been added: a heavily parameterized basal drag component; a visco-elastic isostatic adjustment solver; a diverse set of climate forcings (to remove any reliance on any single method); tidewater and ice shelf calving functionality; and a new physically motivated, empirically-derived sub-ice-shelf melt (SSM) component. To assess the accuracy of the latter, we compare predicted SSM values against a compilation of published observations. Within parametric and observational uncertainties, computed SSM for the present-day ice sheet is in accord with observations for all but the Filchner ice shelf. The GSM has 31 ensemble parameters that are varied to account (in part) for the uncertainty in the ice physics, the climate forcing, and the ice–ocean interaction. We document the parameters and parametric sensitivity of the model to motivate the choice of ensemble parameters in a quest to approximately bound reality (within the limits of 31 parameters).
Etana in Eden
Authors: Winitzer Abraham
Published: December 2013

This paper proposes an unnoted major link, between the Mesopotamian Etana legend and Genesis’s Garden of Eden story by pointing to parallels between the two stories, apparent at different levels, from the structural to the lexical. Cumulatively these point to a dependence by the Eden story on Etana, though it is argued that the appreciation of these matters in tandem, as put forth in this study, serves mutually beneficial purposes. The identification of vestiges of Etana in Eden advances our understanding of Etana no less than of Eden. Most significantly, perhaps, the reciprocal consideration of Etana and Eden sheds light on the manner by which the ancients’ reflection on language, respectively Akkadian and Hebrew, provided a key ingredient in the creation of both the Mesopotamian and Biblical tales—in a manner quintessential to the Semitic world.
Jewish Neo-Aramaic Dialect of Amədya. By Jared Greenblatt
Authors: Fox Samuel Ethan
Published: December 2013

The Jewish Neo-Aramaic Dialect of Amədya. By Jared Greenblatt. Studies in Semitic Languages and Linguistics, vol. 61. Leiden: Brill, 2011. Pp. ix + 366. $266.
Entre mémoire et pouvoir: L’espace syrien sous les derniers Omeyyades et les premiers Abbassides (v. 72–193/692–809). By Antoine Borrut
Authors: Judd Steven C.
Published: December 2013

Entre mémoire et pouvoir: L’espace syrien sous les derniers Omeyyades et les premiers Abbassides (v. 72–193/692–809). By Antoine Borrut. Islamic History and Civilization, vol. 81. Leiden: Brill, 2011. Pp. xxiii + 543. $234.
Road Inns (Khāns) in Bilād al-Shām. By Katia Cytryn-Silverman
Authors: Rabbat Nasser
Published: December 2013

The Road Inns (Khāns) in Bilād al-Shām. By Katia Cytryn-Silverman. BAR S2130. Oxford: Archaeopress, 2010. Pp. vi + 290, illus. £58.
Reading and Writing in Babylon. By Dominique Charpin. Translated by Jane Marie Todd
Authors: Chavalas Mark W.
Published: December 2013

Reading and Writing in Babylon. By Dominique Charpin. Translated by Jane Marie Todd. Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press, 2010. Pp. xv + 315, illus. $29.95.
Back Matter
Authors: Editors
Published: December 2013

Back matter
Adolescent Use, Diversion Sources, and Perceived Procurement Difficulty of Prescription Medications
Authors: McCabe Sean Esteban , Pasman Emily , Wilens Tim , Schepis Ty S. , McCabe Vita , Ford Jason , Veliz Phil
Published: July 2024

This study examines trends in medical use, nonmedical use, diversion sources, and perceived procurement difficulty of prescription medications for nonmedical use among US adolescents.
Favorable Response to Type 2 Inhibitors in Patients With Darier Disease
Authors: BinJadeed Hessah , Huang Han Zhang , Joly-Chevrier Maxine , Javed Gazal , Netchiporouk Elena
Published: July 2024

This case report describes 2 female patients who both presented with severe and recalcitrant Darier disease who were treated with type 2 inflammation inhibitors.
Insurance Type and Withdrawal of Life-Sustaining Therapy in Critically Injured Trauma Patients
Authors: Hoit Graeme , Wijeysundera Duminda N. , Hamad Doulia M. , Nauth Aaron , Atrey Amit , Halai Mansur , Walser Eric , Nikouline Anton , Nathens Avery B. , Khoshbin Amir
Published: July 2024

Importance

Withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy (WLST) decisions for critically injured trauma patients are complicated and multifactorial, with potential for patients’ insurance status to affect decision-making.

Objectives

To determine if patient insurance type (private insurance, Medicaid, and uninsured) is associated with time to WLST in critically injured adults cared for at US trauma centers.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective registry-based cohort study included reported data from level I and level II trauma centers in the US that participated in the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) registry. Participants included adult trauma patients who were injured between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2020, and required an intensive care unit stay. Patients were excluded if they died on arrival or in the emergency department or had a preexisting do not resuscitate directive. Analyses were performed on December 12, 2023.

Exposures

Insurance type (private insurance, Medicaid, uninsured).

Main Outcomes and Measures

An adjusted time-to-event analysis for association between insurance status and time to WLST was performed, with analyses accounting for clustering by hospital.

Results

This study included 307 731 patients, of whom 160 809 (52.3%) had private insurance, 88 233 (28.6%) had Medicaid, and 58 689 (19.1%) were uninsured. The mean (SD) age was 40.2 (14.1) years, 232 994 (75.7%) were male, 59 551 (19.4%) were African American or Black patients, and 201 012 (65.3%) were White patients. In total, 12 962 patients (4.2%) underwent WLST during their admission. Patients who are uninsured were significantly more likely to undergo earlier WLST compared with those with private insurance (HR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.46-1.62) and Medicaid (HR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.39-1.55). This finding was robust to sensitivity analysis excluding patients who died within 48 hours of presentation and after accounting for nonwithdrawal death as a competing risk.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of US adult trauma patients who were critically injured, patients who were uninsured underwent earlier WLST compared with those with private or Medicaid insurance. Based on our findings, patient’s ability to pay was may be associated with a shift in decision-making for WLST, suggesting the influence of socioeconomics on patient outcomes.
Physician Posttraumatic Stress Disorder During COVID-19
Authors: Kamra Mihir , Dhaliwal Shan , Li Wenshan , Acharya Shrey , Wong Adrian , Zhu Andy , Vemulakonda Jaydev , Wilson Janet , Gibb Maya , Maskerine Courtney , Spilg Edward , Tanuseputro Peter , Myran Daniel T. , Solmi Marco , Sood Manish M.
Published: July 2024

Importance

The COVID-19 pandemic placed many physicians in situations of increased stress and challenging resource allocation decisions. Insight into the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder in physicians and its risk factors during the COVID-19 pandemic will guide interventions to prevent its development.

Objective

To determine the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among physicians during the COVID-19 pandemic and examine variations based on factors, such as sex, age, medical specialty, and career stage.

Data Sources

A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses–compliant systematic review was conducted, searching MEDLINE, Embase, and PsychInfo, from December 2019 to November 2022. Search terms included MeSH (medical subject heading) terms and keywords associated with physicians as the population and PTSD.

Study Selection

Peer-reviewed published studies reporting on PTSD as a probable diagnosis via validated questionnaires or clinician diagnosis were included. The studies were reviewed by 6 reviewers.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

A random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool estimates of PTSD prevalence and calculate odds ratios (ORs) for relevant physician characteristics.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome of interest was the prevalence of PTSD in physicians, identified by standardized questionnaires.

Results

Fifty-seven studies with a total of 28 965 participants and 25 countries were included (of those that reported sex: 5917 of 11 239 [52.6%] were male and 5322 of 11 239 [47.4%] were female; of those that reported career stage: 4148 of 11 186 [37.1%] were medical trainees and 7038 of 11 186 [62.9%] were attending physicians). The estimated pooled prevalence of PTSD was 18.3% (95% CI, 15.2%-22.8%; I2 = 97%). Fourteen studies (22.8%) reported sex, and it was found that female physicians were more likely to develop PTSD (OR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.56-2.39). Of the 10 studies (17.5%) reporting age, younger physicians reported less PTSD. Among the 13 studies (22.8%) reporting specialty, PTSD was most common among emergency department doctors. Among the 16 studies (28.1%) reporting career stage, trainees were more prone to developing PTSD than attendings (OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.12-1.57).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this meta-analysis examining PTSD during COVID-19, 18.3% of physicians reported symptoms consistent with PTSD, with a higher risk in female physicians, older physiciansy, and trainees, and with variation by specialty. Targeted interventions to support physician well-being during traumatic events like pandemics are required.
Piezoelectric Analgesia Blocks Cancer‐Induced Bone Pain
Authors: Yin Yifei , Zhao Peiran , Xu Xianyun , Zhou Bangguo , Chen Jian , Jiang Xingwu , Liu Yanyan , Wu Yelin , Yue Wenwen , Xu Huixiong , Bu Wenbo
Published: July 2024

The manipulation of cell surface receptors’ activity will open a new frontier for drug development and disease treatment. However, limited by the desensitization of drugs, effective physical intervention strategy remains challenging. Here, the controllable internalization of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) on neural cells by local piezoelectric field is reported. Single‐cell‐level local electric field is construct by synthesizing piezoelectric BiOIO3 nanosheets (BIONSs). Upon a mild ultrasound of 0.08 W cm−2, an electric field of 15.29 µV is generated on the surface of BIONSs, further inducing TRPV1 internalization in 5 min. The as‐downregulated TRPV1 expression results in the reduction of Ca2+ signal in a spinal neuron and the inhibition of the activity of wide range dynamic neurons, therefore effectively preventing the transmission of cancer‐induced bone pain (CIBP). This strategy not only charts a new course for CIBP alleviation, but also introduces a promising nanotechnology for regulating cell surface receptors, showing significant potential in neuropathological and receptor‐related diseases.
Charge‐Transfer Complexes: Fundamentals and Advances in Catalysis, Sensing, and Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Baharfar Mahroo , Hillier Andrew C. , Mao Guangzhao
Published: July 2024

Supramolecular assemblies, formed through electronic charge transfer between two or more entities, represent a rich class of compounds dubbed as charge‐transfer complexes (CTCs). Their distinctive formation pathway, rooted in charge‐transfer processes at the interface of CTC‐forming components, results in the delocalization of electronic charge along molecular stacks, rendering CTCs intrinsic molecular conductors. Since the discovery of CTCs, intensive research has explored their unique properties including magnetism, conductivity, and superconductivity. Their more recently recognized semiconducting functionality has inspired recent developments in applications requiring organic semiconductors. In this context, CTCs offer a tuneable energy gap, unique charge‐transport properties, tailorable physicochemical interactions, photoresponsiveness, and the potential for scalable manufacturing. Here, an updated viewpoint on CTCs is provided, presenting them as emerging organic semiconductors. To this end, their electronic and chemical properties alongside their synthesis methods are reviewed. The unique properties of CTCs that benefit various related applications in the realms of organic optoelectronics, catalysts, and gas sensors are discussed. Insights for future developments and existing limitations are described.
Dual‐Intermetallic Heterostructure on Hierarchical Nanoporous Metal for Highly Efficient Alkaline Hydrogen Electrocatalysis
Authors: Shi Hang , Dai Tian‐Yi , Sun Xin‐Ying , Zhou Zhi‐Lan , Zeng Shu‐Pei , Wang Tong‐Hui , Han Gao‐Feng , Wen Zi , Fang Qian‐Rong , Lang Xing‐You , Jiang Qing
Published: July 2024

Constructing well‐defined active multisites is an effective strategy to break linear scaling relationships to develop high‐efficiency catalysts toward multiple‐intermediate reactions. Here, dual‐intermetallic heterostructure composed of tungsten‐bridged Co3W and WNi4 intermetallic compounds seamlessly integrated on hierarchical nanoporous nickel skeleton is reported as a high‐performance nonprecious electrocatalyst for alkaline hydrogen evolution and oxidation reactions. By virtue of interfacial tungsten atoms configuring contiguous multisites with proper adsorptions of hydrogen and hydroxyl intermediates to accelerate water dissociation/combination and column‐nanostructured nickel skeleton facilitating electron and ion/molecule transportations, nanoporous nickel‐supported Co3W–WNi4 heterostructure exhibits exceptional hydrogen electrocatalysis in alkaline media, with outstanding durability and impressive catalytic activities for hydrogen oxidation reaction (geometric exchange current density of ≈6.62 mA cm−2) and hydrogen evolution reaction (current density of ≈1.45 A cm−2 at overpotential of 200 mV). Such atom‐ordered intermetallic heterostructure alternative to platinum group metals shows genuine potential for hydrogen production and utilization in hydroxide‐exchange‐membrane water electrolyzers and fuel cells.
Mitochondrial N‐Terminal Signal Sequences as Novel Antimicrobial and Annticancer Peptides
Authors: Jo Sang‐Heon , Lee Kyu‐Shik , Lee Min‐Gu , Yun Eun‐Young , Jeong Kyuho , Goo Tae Won
Published: July 2024

N‐terminal mitochondrial targeting sequences (MTS) are signal peptides to drive the localization and import of mitochondrial protein and exhibit an amphipathic α‐helix structure similar to that of almost all antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Here, 2,939 mitochondrial proteins are excavated from various organisms, and 574 MTS are selected with an MTS possibility score exceeding 0.5, as determined via MitoFates (http://mitf.cbrc.jp/MitoFates/cgi‐bin/top.cgi). 26 MTS composed of less than 20 amino acids is synthesized and analyzed their antimicrobial activities. The results showed that approximately 50% of MTS exhibited antimicrobial activity. Among them, human mitochondrial transcription termination factor 2 (hMTERF2‐ts) is identified as an AMP candidate with strong antimicrobial activity against gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria, antibiotics‐resistant (AR) bacteria, and fungi. Furthermore, it shows anticancer activities against various cancer cells, such as MDA‐MB‐231, HT‐29, HepG2, and Panc‐1 cells, with high stability against proteases, heat, pH, and salt, and low cytotoxicity toward normal cells, HaCaT and RAW 264.7. In addition, hMTERF2‐ts effectively prevented the growth of Panc‐1‐implanted tumors without weight loss in BALB/c nude mice. In conclusion, this study suggests that MTSs of protozoa are powerful and novel AMP candidates with low cytotoxicity against normal cells.
Nano‐Photonic Crystal D‐Shaped Fiber Devices for Label‐Free Biosensing at the Attomolar Limit of Detection
Authors: Del Villar Ignacio , Gonzalez‐Valencia Esteban , Kwietniewski Norbert , Burnat Dariusz , Armas Dayron , Pituła Emil , Janik Monika , Matías Ignacio R. , Giannetti Ambra , Torres Pedro , Chiavaioli Francesco , Śmietana Mateusz
Published: July 2024

Maintaining both high sensitivity and large figure of merit (FoM) is crucial in regard to the performance of optical devices, particularly when they are intended for use as biosensors with extremely low limit of detection (LoD). Here, a stack of nano‐assembled layers in the form of 1D photonic crystal, deposited on D‐shaped single‐mode fibers, is created to meet these criteria, resulting in the generation of Bloch surface wave resonances. The increase in the contrast between high and low refractive index (RI) nano‐layers, along with the reduction of losses, enables not only to achieve high sensitivity, but also a narrowed resonance bandwidth, leading to a significant enhancement in the FoM. Preliminary testing for bulk RI sensitivity is carried out, and the effect of an additional nano‐layer that mimics a biological layer where binding interactions occur is also considered. Finally, the biosensing capability is assessed by detecting immunoglobulin G in serum at very low concentrations, and a record LoD of 70 aM is achieved. An optical fiber biosensor that is capable of attaining extraordinarily low LoD in the attomolar range is not only a remarkable technical outcome, but can also be envisaged as a powerful tool for early diagnosis of diseases.
Fluorinated Naphthalene Diimides as Buried Electron Transport Materials Achieve Over 23% Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Wang Wanhai , Huang Pengyu , Yang Li , Hu Jianfei , Wei Kun , Gao Liang , Jiang Yonghe , Sun Kexuan , Du Guozheng , Cai Xuanyi , Liu Chang , Tang Weihua , Zhang Jinbao
Published: July 2024

Naphthalene diimides (NDI) are widely serving as the skeleton to construct electron transport materials (ETMs) for optoelectronic devices. However, most of the reported NDI‐based ETMs suffer from poor interfaces with the perovskite which deteriorates the carrier extraction and device stability. Here, a representative design concept for editing the peripheral groups of NDI molecules to achieve multifunctional properties is introduced. The resulting molecule 2,7‐bis(2,2,3,3,4,4,4‐heptafluorobutyl)benzo[lmn][3,8]phenanthroline‐1,3,6,8(2H,7H)‐tetraone (NDI‐C4F) incorporated with hydrophobic fluorine units contributes to the prevention of excessive molecular aggregation, the improvement of surface wettability and the formation of strong chemical coordination with perovskite precursors. All these features favor retarding the perovskite crystallization and achieving superior buried interfaces, which subsequently promote charge collection and improve the structural compatibility between perovskite and ETMs. The corresponding PSCs based on low‐temperature processed NDI‐C4F yield a record efficiency of 23.21%, which is the highest reported value for organic ETMs in n‐i‐p PSCs. More encouragingly, the unencapsulated devices with NDI‐C4F demonstrate extraordinary stability by retaining over 90% of their initial PCEs after 2600 h in air. This work provides an alternative molecular strategy to engineer the buried interfaces and can trigger further development of organic ETMs toward reliable PSCs.
Pyro‐Phototronic Effect Induced Circularly Polarized Light Detection with a Broadband Response
Authors: Guan Qianwen , Zhu Zeng‐Kui , Ye Huang , Zhang Chengshu , Li Hang , Ji Chengmin , Liu Xitao , Luo Junhua
Published: July 2024

Photopyroelectric‐based circularly polarized light (CPL) detection, coupling the pyro‐phototronic effect and chiroptical phenomena, has provided a promising platform for high‐performance CPL detectors. However, as a novel detection strategy, photopyroelectric‐based CPL detection is currently restricted by the short‐wave optical response, underscoring the urgent need to extend its response range. Herein, visible‐to‐near‐infrared CPL detection induced by the pyro‐phototronic effect is first realized in chiral‐polar perovskites. Specifically, chiral‐polar multilayered perovskites (S‐BPEA)2FAPb2I7 (1‐S, S‐BPEA = (S)‐1‐4‐Bromophenylethylammonium, FA = formamidinium) with spontaneous polarization shows intrinsic pyroelectric and photopyroelectric performance. Strikingly, combining its merits of the pyro‐phototronic effect and intrinsic wide‐spectrum spin‐selective effect, chiral multilayered 1‐S presents efficient photopyroelectric‐based broadband CPL detection performance spanning 405–785 nm. This research first realizes photopyroelectric‐based infrared CPL detection and also sheds light on developing high‐performance broadband CPL detectors based on the pyro‐phototronic effect in the fields of optics, optoelectronics, and spintronics.
Cover crop and wheel‐track effects on soil properties under cotton production in eastern Arkansas
Authors: Lebeau Shelby G. , Brye Kristofor R. , Daniels Michael , Wood Lisa S.
Published: July 2024

Repetitive use of heavy farm machinery in cultivated agriculture may cause soil compaction that can adversely affect soil‐health‐related properties. Cover crops (CC) are well‐documented to alleviate problems associated with compaction and improve overall soil health in time. The objective of this field study was to evaluate the cumulative effects of CC treatment (i.e., with ≥ 6 years cereal rye [Secale cereale L.] CC and ≥ 4 years with no cover crop [NCC]) and sample/measurement placement (i.e., in the bed [B] and in the wheel‐track [WT] and no‐wheel‐track [NWT] furrow) on near‐surface soil physical‐, chemical‐, and infiltration‐related properties in an alluvial soil under cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) production in the Lower Mississippi River Valley. Samples were collected and in‐situ measurements were conducted in late May 2019 within a single field in eastern Arkansas. Overall‐infiltration rate was two times greater (p ≤ 0.01) in B compared to WT and NWT placement, which did not differ. Soil bulk density in WT was 1.1 times greater than the other two placements, while soil organic matter was greater in CC‐WT (30.7 Mg ha−1) than in all other treatment‐placement combinations, except for CC‐NWT, which did not differ. Similarly, water‐stable‐aggregate concentration was 2.3 and 1.6 times greater in the CC‐NWT and CC‐WT combinations, respectively, which did not differ, compared to under NCC. Results demonstrated that CC benefits extended beyond the bed to positively affect soil properties in adjacent WT and NWT furrows. Continued small‐scale, long‐term management studies using CC will extend insight into site‐specific, soil‐health improvements.
Effects of vermicompost and mineral fertilizers on soil properties, malt barley (Hordeum distichum L.) yield, and economic benefits
Authors: Terefe Zenebe , Feyisa Tesfaye , Molla Eyayu , Ejigu Workineh
Published: July 2024

Soil fertility depletion has significantly reduced the yields of various crops in Ethiopia, mainly the yield of malt barley in the district. To address this issue, integrated applications of vermicompost and mineral nitrogen (N) fertilizers were tested. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of vermicompost and mineral nitrogen fertilizers application on malt barley yield (Hordeum distichum L.), soil properties, and economic benefits. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The treatments were nine in various combinations of vermicompost (VC) and N fertilizer (N): (69 kg N; 0.79 t VC + 58.65 kg N; 1.59 t VC + 48.30 kg N; 2.39 t VC + 37.95 kg N; 3.19 t VC + 27.60 kg N; 3.98 t VC + 17.25 kg N; 4.78 t VC + 6.90 kg N; 5.31 t VC ha−1 and control). The highest soil pH was recorded by applying 5.31 t of vermicompost ha−1 alone. The highest total nitrogen (0.34%), available phosphorus (15.58 mg kg−1), grain yield (4950 kg ha−1), and net benefit (4255.74 USD) were recorded from the application of 2.39 t VC plus 37.95 kg N, while the highest soil organic carbon (3.38%) and cation exchange capacity (26.17 cmol (+) kg−1) were recorded from 3.19 t VC plus 27.60 kg N ha−1 compared to the control. This study concludes that applying 2.39 t VC and 37.95 kg N ha−1 in combination improves soil fertility, malt barley yield, and economic benefits for smallholder farmers in the study district and adopts this in similar soil types and agroecologies.
Polyvinylidene fluoride gel‐polyethylene composite separator optimizing the interface compatibility between the separator and the electrode
Authors: Chen Qian , Yang Ling , Gao Xingxu , Li Datuan , Sun Ao , Niu Jing , Bai Yaozong , Dong Haoyu , Liu Gaojun , Sheng Lei , Wang Tao , Huang Xianli , He Jianping
Published: July 2024

The interface issue concerning lithium dendrite formation between the separator and electrode remains a significant impediment to the further advancement of lithium‐ion batteries (LIB). Due to the inadequate interface compatibility between the conventional polyolefin separator and the electrode, there is a propensity for lithium dendrite growth. In this work, the surface of the polyethylene (PE) separator is coated with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) gel using a simple phase transformation method, resulting in the preparation of a composite separator consisting of PE and PVDF. The results demonstrate an enhanced interface compatibility following the introduction of the gel layer, with a polarization voltage as low as 0.14 V observed after 250 h of cycling. Additionally, the ionic conductivity of the PE/PVDF composite separator (1.77 mS cm−1) is enhanced, attributed to the incorporation of F functional group in PVDF gel, which could facilitate the formation of a rapid ion transport pathway through the interaction between F functional group and Li+. After the introduction of the gel layer, the discharge capacity of the battery after 250 cycles measures ~1.28 mAh, with a mere 27% decay in capacity. This study presents a novel concept for the design of composite separator in LIB.
Paclitaxel‐coated versus sirolimus‐coated balloon angioplasty for coronary artery disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Shin Doosup , Singh Mandeep , Shlofmitz Evan , Scheller Bruno , Latib Azeem , Kandzari David E. , Zaman Azfar , Mylotte Darren , Dakroub Ali , Malik Sarah , Sakai Koshiro , Jeremias Allen , Moses Jeffrey W. , Shlofmitz Richard A. , Stone Gregg W. , Ali Ziad A.
Published: July 2024

Background

Although use of sirolimus‐based analogs has shown superiority over paclitaxel in drug‐eluting stents, the relative efficacy of these two agents released from drug‐coated balloons (DCB) is unclear. The present meta‐analysis is aimed to compare outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with paclitaxel‐coated balloons (PCB) versus sirolimus‐coated balloons (SCB) for either in‐stent restenosis or native de novo lesions.

Methods

The study outcomes were 1) target lesion failure (TLF), a composite of cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction, or target lesion revascularization, and 2) follow‐up angiographic parameters including late lumen loss (LLL), diameter stenosis, and minimal lumen diameter (MLD). Pooled odds ratios (OR) and weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated by using random‐effects models.

Results

A search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library from their inception to January 2024 identified five randomized clinical trials and three observational studies with a total of 1861 patients (889 in PCB and 972 in SCB groups). During 9–12 months of follow‐up, there was no significant difference in TLF (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.75–1.35) between the two groups. On follow‐up angiography at 6–9 months, MLD (WMD 0.10, 95% CI 0.02–0.17) was larger in PCB but there was no statistically significant difference in LLL (WMD −0.11, 95% CI −0.23–0.02) and diameter stenosis (WMD −3.33, 95% CI −8.11–1.45).

Conclusions

Among patients undergoing DCB‐only PCI, the risk of TLF was similar during 9–12 months of follow‐up after PCB and SCB treatment. However, the MLD was larger favoring PCB over SCB on follow‐up angiography.
Molecular Imprinting‐involving Highly Selective Tetracycline Detection Platform Based on Mn2V2O7 with Excellent Oxidase‐mimicking Activity
Authors: Zhao Huanjun , Xu Xinxin , Chen Jin
Published: July 2024

Nanozymes‐involving colorimetry may represent an effective solution to tetracycline detection due to its affordability and simplicity. To improve the performance in selectivity, molecular imprinting technology has emerged as a promising approach to simulating the interaction between antibodies and receptors. Herein, Mn2V2O7, a form of nanozyme with oxidase‐mimicking activity, was synthesized. With tetracycline as the template, the cavities with unique dimensions were constructed through the self‐polymerization of dopamine (DA) on Mn2V2O7. In Mn2V2O7@MIP, polydopamine (PDA) acts as molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) and its cavities are compatible with tetracycline in dimension. It also exhibits oxidase‐mimicking activity. With the introduction of tetracycline, the cavity of PDA is blocked, which leads to obvious color fading, which enables precise tetracycline detection with colorimetry. The range of linear detection is from 10 to 100 μM, and the lower limit of detection is 0.82 μM. It is anticipated that the combination between nanozymes‐involving colorimetry and molecular imprinting technology would contribute to the accurate detection of organic pollutants in the aquatic environment.