bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incorporation of Cell‐Adhesive Proteins in 3D‐Printed Lipoic Acid‐Maleic Acid‐Poly(Propylene Glycol)‐Based Tough Gel Ink for Cell‐Supportive Microenvironment
Authors: Tran Hao Nguyen , Kim In Gul , Kim Jong Heon , Bhattacharyya Amitava , Chung Eun‐Jae , Noh Insup
Published: September 2023

In extrusion‐based 3D printing, the use of synthetic polymeric hydrogels can facilitate fabrication of cellularized and implanted scaffolds with sufficient mechanical properties to maintain the structural integrity and physical stress within the in vivo conditions. However, synthetic hydrogels face challenges due to their poor properties of cellular adhesion, bioactivity, and biofunctionality. New compositions of hydrogel inks have been designed to address this limitation. A viscous poly(maleate‐propylene oxide)‐lipoate‐poly(ethylene oxide) (MPLE) hydrogel is recently developed that shows high‐resolution printability, drug‐controlled release, excellent mechanical properties with adhesiveness, and biocompatibility. In this study, the authors demonstrate that the incorporation of cell‐adhesive proteins like gelatin and albumin within the MPLE gel allows printing of biologically functional 3D scaffolds with rapid cell spreading (within 7 days) and high cell proliferation (twofold increase) as compared with MPLE gel only. Addition of proteins (10% w/v) supports the formation of interconnected cell clusters (≈1.6‐fold increase in cell areas after 7‐day) and spreading of cells in the printed scaffolds without additional growth factors. In in vivo studies, the protein‐loaded scaffolds showed excellent biocompatibility and increased angiogenesis without inflammatory response after 4‐week implantation in mice, thus demonstrating the promise to contribute to the printable tough hydrogel inks for tissue engineering.
Effect of substrates on the chemical characteristics and evolving structures of an organic superhydrophobic coating
Authors: Baruwa A. D. , Makhatha M. E. , Akinlabi E. T.
Published: September 2023

While recent research has used organic coatings to replace chromium‐based coatings, the ability of a coating material to repeat its chemical properties on different substrates is still under investigation. The Repellix superhydrophobic compound was developed and deposited on three different substrates using the atomic layer deposition method under the same condition. The films were characterized using the scanning electron microscope, atomic force microscope, water contact angle, attenuated Fourier transform infrared, and x‐ray diffractometer. The surface morphology revealed that microstructural evolutions and topologies are different. The roughness of the coating deposited on stainless steel is the highest at 38.39 nanometers, while mild steel substrate showed the least surface roughness at 28.66 nanometers. From observations, the roughness also contributed to the degree of superhydrophobicity of the films deposited on substrates. The multiple hydroxyl functional groups observed in the Fourier transform spectroscopy in the range 3200 cm−1 to 4000 cm−1 would aid the adhesion of deposited films to the substrates. The x‐ray diffraction results showed that all substrates had chemical stability, and the Repellix compound is amorphous on all substrates. Stainless steel showed to be the most robust among the substrates considered.
Application of central composite design for optimization of bio‐oil production using peat moss
Authors: Jason O. , Chua H. S. , Rajendran N. R. , Bashir M. J. K , Goh T. T. , Ashraf R.
Published: September 2023

Most nations have concentrated on reducing greenhouse gas emissions since global warming is such a serious problem. Due to land use changes, the harvesting of peat for use as fuel in homes, and the gardening industry, peat moss from peat bogs or peat fields may cause smoldering fires and release quantities of carbon dioxide. Bio‐fuel is one of the alternative renewable sources created from organic materials. Pyrolysis, a thermochemical process that converts organic materials into substitutes for fossil fuels and used to create biofuel because it is readily available, straightforward, and inexpensive to implement. The feedstock utilized in this experiment was peat moss. Proximate and ultimate analyses were performed using thermogravimetric analysis and elemental analyzer to determine thermal breakdown and elemental characteristics. Pyrolysis was carried out in this work using a prototype lab scale fixed‐bed pyrolysis. Based on prior study, the parameters used are pyrolysis temperature, nitrogen flow rate and reaction time to create the central composite design model. According to the analysis of variance results, pyrolysis temperature and flow rate were significant, however reaction time was not. The effect of flow rate and reaction time on response was explored. The actual bio‐oil yield achieved utilizing the optimal parameters was 10.02 %. The presence of chemical compounds in bio‐oil was measured.
Statistical in situ scanning electron microscopy investigation on the failure of oxide scales
Authors: Zhou Jin , Chen Yongqing , Ma Yuan , Zhang Xiaoxin , Gong Xing , He Yang , Yan Qingzhi , Qiao Lijie
Published: September 2023

Oxide scales play a pivotal role in obstructing surface chemical and electrochemical reactions, hence hindering chemo‐mechanical effects such as liquid metal embrittlement of steels. Therefore, the critical conditions and failure mechanism of the oxide film are of major interest in the safe service of steels. Though in situ microscopic methods may directly visualize the failure mechanism, they are often challenged by the lack of statistically reliable evaluation of the critical conditions. Here, by combining in situ scanning electron microscopy with a tapered specimen tensile test in a single experiment, we uniquely achieve a mechanistic study with statistically reliable quantification of the critical strains for each step of the dynamic process of film rupture. This is demonstrated with the oxide films formed on a ferrite–martensite steel in liquid lead–bismuth eutectic alloy at elevated temperatures, with in situ results falling right into the predictions of the statistical analysis. Explicitly, the integrated experimental methodology may facilitate the materials genome engineering of steels with superior service performance.
Dorso‐ulnar reverse flow pedicled osseous flap for reconstruction of the distal phalanx of the thumb: A case report
Authors: Tosi Daniele , Patanè Luca , Delle Femmine Pietro Francesco , Ornelli Matteo , Ruocco Giovanni , Felici Nicola
Published: September 2023

Reconstruction of osseous defects of the distal phalanx of the thumb is usually addressed with free bone grafts or free vascularized bone flaps. Some reports demonstrated the possibility to harvest an osteo‐cutaneous flap in the dorso‐ulnar side of the first metacarpal bone with success. In the same manner, no reports are present in the literature in which bone deficits were reconstructed with this flap elevated as an exclusively osseous flap. We report our successful experience with one case of distal phalanx reconstruction of the thumb by mean of the dorso‐ulnar reverse flow pedicled osseous flap. The patient was a 45‐year‐old woman with symptoms related to a cystic bone tumor that involved the entirety of the distal phalanx of the thumb. Flap dimensions were calculated based on x‐ray gap measures, which resulted in need of 1.5 × 0.8 × 0.5 cm flap dimensions. An osseous flap was harvested and transposed from the ulnar side of the first metacarpal bone. K‐wire fixation was utilized for bone flap stabilization. No complications occurred and excellent functional result was evaluated at 6 months follow‐up. In our opinion, the flap may be considered as an alternative to free bone grafts in situations in which perilesional tissues may jeopardize the process of free graft taking and in cases in which free vascularized bone flaps are not feasible for patient or surgeon decision.
AliNA – a deep learning program for RNA secondary structure prediction
Authors: Nasaev Shamsudin S. , Mukanov Artem R. , Kuznetsov Ivan I. , Veselovsky Alexander V.
Published: September 2023

Nowadays there are numerous discovered natural RNA variations participating in different cellular processes and artificial RNA, e. g., aptamers, riboswitches. One of the required tasks in the investigation of their functions and mechanism of influence on cells and interaction with targets is the prediction of RNA secondary structures. The classic thermodynamic‐based prediction algorithms do not consider the specificity of biological folding and deep learning methods that were designed to resolve this issue suffer from homology‐based methods problems. Herein, we present a method for RNA secondary structure prediction based on deep learning – AliNA (ALIgned Nucleic Acids). Our method successfully predicts secondary structures for non‐homologous to train‐data RNA families thanks to usage of the data augmentation techniques. Augmentation extends existing datasets with easily‐accessible simulated data. The proposed method shows a high quality of prediction across different benchmarks including pseudoknots. The method is available on GitHub for free (https://github.com/Arty40m/AliNA).
Differential Gut Microbiota, Dietary Intakes in Constipation Patients with or without Hypertension
Authors: Li Junqi , Ma Guoqing , Xie Jiawen , Xu Kun , Lai Hao , Li Yunfeng , He Yafang , Yu Hang , Liao Xia , Wang Xinyan , Li Zhongxia , Kong Liyun , Mi Baibing , Shen Yuan , Tian Tian , Liu Xin
Published: September 2023

Scope

Diet and gut microbiota are involved in blood pressure regulations, but few studies have focused on the constipation patients. The study seeks to identify differences in gut microbiota between hypertensive and normotensive subjects in constipation patients, analyzes the relationship between dietary patterns and blood pressure, and explores mediation effects of gut microbiota.

Methods and results

Gut microbial genera and dietary information of 186 functional constipation participants are characterized by 16S rRNA sequencing and a food frequency questionnaire. The hypertensive subjects shows lower α‐diversity and β‐diversity of gut microbiota than normotensive (p < 0.05) and 17 differential microbial genera. The dried‐beans intake frequency inversely correlated with systolic and diastolic blood pressure after multivariate adjustment (r = −0.273, p‐FDR < 0.01; r = −0.251, p‐FDR = 0.026, respectively). Logistic regression indicates that the individuals often consumed dried‐beans have a lower hypertension risk than those never consumed [OR = 0.137, 95% CI: (0.022, 0.689), p = 0.022]. A marginal mediating effect of the genus Monoglobus is observed for the association between high‐fiber dietary pattern and hypertension.

Conclusion

In patients with functional constipation, hypertension‐related gut microbial differences are identified. Dried‐beans intake is inversely associated with blood pressure, and a genus may potentially mediate the association between high‐fiber dietary pattern and hypertension.
Disparities in Newborn Hearing Screening Outcomes in the United States From 2007 to 2017
Authors: Gutierrez Katie L. , Koyamatsu Ryan , Lahiff Maureen , Jutte Douglas P. , Chan Dylan K.
Published: September 2023

Objective

Establishing timely language intervention for children who are deaf or hard of hearing is crucial for their cognitive and language development. Newborn hearing screening (NBHS) programs are now commonplace, but disparities in receipt of support may exist. This study seeks to investigate if states with more diverse populations, less educated mothers, fewer resources, and no legislative mandate of screening have lower rates of milestone completion.

Study Design

This is a cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Data describing screening, identification, and intervention rates from individual state NBHS programs were aggregated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 2007 to 2017.

Methods

Regression models were fitted to assess associations between these outcomes and state demographic and policy variables. Forest plots from meta‐analyses were used to obtain nationwide pooled estimates of the relative risk (RR) of maternal predictors from individual state data.

Results

State averages of maternal education level, age, and race/ethnicity were found to be significantly associated with various outcomes. The presence of program funding and legislative state mandate were associated with multiple improved outcomes. Meta‐analyses identified increased RRs for most outcomes based on maternal education less than high school, age 19 and below, and non‐White race/ethnicity.

Conclusion

There is evidence of disparities in access to and timing of screening, identification testing, and intervention by various demographic and policy factors at the state level. More research is needed to further explore these relationships and determine how to address existing disparities in order to provide more equitable care.
A tangential interpolation framework for the AAA algorithm
Authors: Aumann Quirin , Benner Peter , Gosea Ion Victor , Saak Jens , Vettermann Julia
Published: September 2023

Interpolation‐based data‐driven methods, such as the Loewner framework or the Adaptive Antoulas‐Anderson (AAA) algorithm, are established and effective approaches to find a realization of a dynamical system from frequency response data (measurements of the system's transfer function). If a system‐theoretic representation of the original model is not available or unfeasible to evaluate efficiently, such reduced realizations enable effective analysis and simulation. This is especially relevant for models of interconnected dynamical systems, which typically have a high number of inputs and outputs to model their coupling conditions correctly.

Tangential interpolation is an established strategy to construct accurate reduced‐order models while ensuring a reasonably small size even if many inputs and/or outputs have to be considered. In this contribution, we evaluate the applicability and effectiveness of data‐driven interpolation methods to compute reduced‐order models of dynamical systems with many inputs and outputs. Additionally, we extend AAA to a tangential interpolation setting and thus enable the use of AAA‐like methods in the context of transfer function interpolation for systems with many inputs and outputs.
Internal resonance in nonlinear structures—and what it can be used for
Authors: Tatzko Sebastian
Published: September 2023

In vibrating structures, nonlinear effects can play a decisive role. For example, stiffening responses can occur in integral components with low damping, but softening effects with a shift of the resonance to lower values by an increase of the vibration energy can be observed. Often these systems are considered only in a characteristic nonlinear vibration mode, allowing well‐known phenomena to be investigated. However, it may be the case that more than one nonlinear mode has a significant effect on the structural response of multi‐degree‐of‐freedom systems. If these modes take on integer multiples of frequency values, we speak of an internal resonance. In this work, the phenomenon of internal resonance is explained on the basis of a two‐mass oscillator. For this purpose, nonlinear modal analysis (NMA) is used to determine the amplitude‐dependent behavior of the resonant frequencies, referred to as nonlinear modes. These nonlinear modes already display the internal resonance in the form of characteristic trajectories, which are examined and explained in more detail here. A computational framework consisting of harmonic balance and continuation is used to calculate the nonlinear mode curves. In addition, nonlinear frequency responses are determined and their trajectories and properties in the internal resonance region are shown. To further understand the oscillatory behavior time plots are considered. Finally, a possible use for the observed properties is discussed as well and current approaches in research for the use of internal resonances are pointed out.
Consultation patterns before and after embedding pediatric palliative care into a pediatric hematology/oncology clinic
Authors: Greenmyer Jacob R. , Ngo Tiffany , Smith Melissa , Collura Christopher , Schiltz Brenda , McCarthy Sarah R.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Palliative care is a critical component of pediatric oncology care. Embedded pediatric palliative care (PPC) is relatively new in pediatric hematology/oncology (PHO) and may improve access, utilization, and quality of PPC. In June 2020, the Mayo Clinic PPC service transitioned from an afternoon, physically independent clinic to an all‐day clinic embedded within PHO.

Methods

Retrospective chart review was used to quantify consultation rates from PHO to PPC in 12‐month study periods before and after establishment of an embedded clinic. Changes in descriptive statistics and consult patterns were calculated. Study periods were compared using either chi‐square or Fisher's exact tests for categorical variables and Wilcox rank sum tests for continuous variables.

Results

There was an 89% increase in consultations from PHO to PPC after initiation of an embedded clinic (n = 20 vs. n = 38 per 12 months). The absolute number of completed outpatient consults increased from three (15% of visits) pre‐embedment to fourteen (37%) post‐embedment (p = .082). The median number of days from first oncology visit to PPC assessment was unchanged after embedment (36 vs. 47 days, p = .98). Consults for solid tumors increased from 22% (n = 4) pre‐embedment to 60% (n = 18) post‐embedment (p < .05). Consults for symptom management increased from 60% (n = 12) to 87% (n = 33) (p < .05).

Conclusions

Embedment of PPC into a PHO workspace was associated with an increased number of total consults, outpatient consults, solid tumor consults, and consults for symptom management. Our “partial‐PPO” model allowed for provision of PPC in the outpatient oncology setting in a clinic where there is not enough volume to support a full‐time oncology‐focused clinician team.
A multi‐level approach reveals key physiological and molecular traits in the response of two rice genotypes subjected to water deficit at the reproductive stage
Authors: Favreau Bénédicte , Gaal Camille , Pereira de Lima Isabela , Droc Gaétan , Roques Sandrine , Sotillo Armel , Guérard Florence , Cantonny Valérie , Gakière Bertrand , Leclercq Julie , Lafarge Tanguy , de Raissac Marcel
Published: September 2023

Rice is more vulnerable to drought than maize, wheat, and sorghum because its water requirements remain high throughout the rice life cycle. The effects of drought vary depending on the timing, intensity, and duration of the events, as well as on the rice genotype and developmental stage. It can affect all levels of organization, from genes to the cells, tissues, and/or organs. In this study, a moderate water deficit was applied to two contrasting rice genotypes, IAC 25 and CIRAD 409, during their reproductive stage. Multi‐level transcriptomic, metabolomic, physiological, and morphological analyses were performed to investigate the complex traits involved in their response to drought. Weighted gene network correlation analysis was used to identify the specific molecular mechanisms regulated by each genotype, and the correlations between gene networks and phenotypic traits. A holistic analysis of all the data provided a deeper understanding of the specific mechanisms regulated by each genotype, and enabled the identification of gene markers. Under non‐limiting water conditions, CIRAD 409 had a denser shoot, but shoot growth was slower despite better photosynthetic performance. Under water deficit, CIRAD 409 was weakly affected regardless of the plant level analyzed. In contrast, IAC 25 had reduced growth and reproductive development. It regulated transcriptomic and metabolic activities at a high level, and activated a complex gene regulatory network involved in growth‐limiting processes. By comparing two contrasting genotypes, the present study identified the regulation of some fundamental processes and gene markers, that drive rice development, and influence its response to water deficit, in particular, the importance of the biosynthetic and regulatory pathways for cell wall metabolism. These key processes determine the biological and mechanical properties of the cell wall and thus influence plant development, organ expansion, and turgor maintenance under water deficit. Our results also question the genericity of the antagonism between morphogenesis and organogenesis observed in the two genotypes.
Magneto‐responsive polydimethylsiloxane films with magnetic powder: Characterization and potential application in the tensile loading system
Authors: Guo Xiaoqi , Zou Yuanwen , Huang Zhongbing , Li Xiaohui
Published: September 2023

Magnetic actuation has attracted a growing attention due to its non‐contact performance, rapid response and penetrability. The realization of magnetic actuation requires the participation of magneto‐responsive materials (MRMS), and magneto‐responsive polymers (MRPs) are one of the most widely used MRMs. Here, we report the fabrication, characterization and actuation tests of neodymium‐iron‐boron‐polydimethylsiloxane (NdFeB‐PDMS) magnetic films. The NdFeB‐PDMS magnetic film has great flexibility and elasticity, as well as excellent magnetism. The film also shows exceptional deformation and magnetic controllability under magnetic actuation. Besides, it can be driven under a very low magnetic field down to 1mT, and generate an out‐of‐plane displacement of 2.7 mm under the action of magnetic fields. We focus on the tensile deformation of NdFeB‐PDMS films under magnetic driving and provide a possible design for their potential application in the tensile loading system. Preliminary tests demonstrate that the size of tensile deformation is adjusted by controlling the output signal and amplification factor.

Highlights

Fabrication of NdFeB‐PDMS magnetic films.

Mechanical and magnetic characterizations of NdFeB‐PDMS films.

Magnetic actuation tests of NdFeB‐PDMS films.

Magnetic field‐induced tensile deformation of NdFeB‐PDMS films.

Potential application of NdFeB‐PDMS films in the tensile loading system.
Effect of carbon black type and concentration on the performance of semiconductive shielding material of high‐voltage cable
Authors: Liu Tianyao , Guo Hao , Li Xuejing , Liu Lu , Li Guochang , Wei Yanhui , Hao Chuncheng , Zhu Yuanwei
Published: September 2023

Semiconductive shielding layer as an important part of high‐voltage cable, its performance directly affects the safe operation and the service life of the cable. Carbon black (CB) is the main conductive filler of shielding materials, and its type and concentration directly affect the performance of the shielding layer. In this paper, CB‐A with higher structure and CB‐B with lower structure were used as conductive fillers and EBA was chosen as the matrix resin to prepare the shielding materials. The CB concentrations of the shielding materials were 35, 45, and 55 phr. The influences of CB type and concentration on the physicochemical, electrical, thermal and mechanical properties of the shielding materials were investigated. The research shows that when the CB types are the same, the higher the concentration of CB, the more intensive the CB network in the shielding material, and the more serious the CB agglomeration phenomenon. With increasing CB concentration, shielding materials show a decreasing trend of volume resistivity, an increasing trend of thermal conductivity, and a decreasing trend of mechanical properties. When the CB concentration is the equal, the CB‐A has better dispersion in the matrix resin, CB‐A/EBA shielding material has lower volume resistivity and weaker PTC effect, CB‐A/EBA shielding material has higher thermal conductivity at low temperature and CB‐B/EBA shielding material has higher thermal conductivity at high temperature, CB‐A/EBA shielding material has better mechanical properties. A comprehensive comparison shows that CB‐A/EBA shielding material with a concentration of 45 phr has excellent overall performance, with volume resistivity of 15.3 and 68 Ω·cm at 25°C and 90°C, respectively. The thermal conductivity is 0.434 W/(m K) at room temperature and 0.536 W/(m K) at 90°C. The stress is 31.08 MPa and the strain is 570.2%. This work has important reference for the selection of conductive fillers and performance improvement of semiconductive shielding materials.
Toward a better interpretation of the partial least squares regression models for fluoropolymers treated by dielectric barrier discharges at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Gélinas Alex , Profili Jacopo , Fotouhiardakani Faegheh , Caceres Ferreira Williams Marcel , Laurent Morgane , Ravichandran Sethumadhavan , Laroche Gaétan
Published: September 2023

In this article, partial least squares regression was applied to a continuous dielectric discharge process aiming to modify the surface of a fluoropolymer. Cross‐validation was used to find the optimal number of latent variables that minimize the error from the model. Then, the key parameters affecting the process were highlighted with the variable importance on the projection (VIP) and the biplot exploratory graph produced from the algorithm. Finally, the model was used to predict additional data not included in the training set. The new predictions were used to assess the ability of the model to predict data outside of the training range. The applicability domain for this model was also discussed. The results showed that less prediction errors occurred when the surface modification remained close to the untreated fluoropolymer surface characteristics.
Effect of self‐bias voltage on the nanoscale morphological properties of corn starch‐based films modified by hexamethyldisiloxane plasma
Authors: da Fonseca de Albuquerque Marta D. , Bastos Daniele C. , Matos Robert S. , Pires Marcelo A. , Ferreira Nilson S. , Ramos Glenda Q. , da Fonseca Filho Henrique D. , Simao Renata A.
Published: September 2023

Thermoplastic starch (TPS) films underwent casting and plasma coating with Hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) gas at various self‐bias voltages. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging revealed slight swelling and grain structures in untreated TPS films due to starch dissolution. However, the HMDSO plasma treatment had minimal impact, with swollen grains still present beneath a layer of small granules. Contact angle measurements demonstrated that untreated films had an initial water contact angle of 32°, gradually decreasing over time. Conversely, HMDSO‐coated films exhibited stable hydrophobic behavior, with contact angles exceeding 100°. Statistical analysis confirmed TPS films’ lower average roughness, while modified films showed no significant difference in height parameters. Higher self‐bias voltages correlated with larger grain sizes. Notably, experimental treatments decreased long‐range spatial correlations, as indicated by Hurst's exponent.
Domain swap facilitates structural transitions of spider silk protein C‐terminal domains
Authors: Rat Charlotte , Heindl Cedric , Neuweiler Hannes
Published: September 2023

Domain swap is a mechanism of protein dimerization where the two interacting domains exchange parts of their structure. Web spiders make use of the process in the connection of C‐terminal domains (CTDs) of spidroins, the soluble protein building blocks that form tough silk fibers. Besides providing connectivity and solubility, spidroin CTDs are responsible for inducing structural transitions during passage through an acidified assembly zone within spinning ducts. The underlying molecular mechanisms are elusive. Here, we studied the folding of five homologous spidroin CTDs from different spider species or glands. Four of these are domain‐swapped dimers formed by five‐helix bundles from spidroins of major and minor ampullate glands. The fifth is a dimer that lacks domain swap, formed by four‐helix bundles from a spidroin of a flagelliform gland. Spidroins from this gland do not undergo structural transitions whereas the others do. We found a three‐state mechanism of folding and dimerization that was conserved across homologues. In chemical denaturation experiments the native CTD dimer unfolded to a dimeric, partially structured intermediate, followed by full unfolding to denatured monomers. The energetics of the individual folding steps varied between homologues. Contrary to the common belief that domain swap stabilizes protein assemblies, the non‐swapped homologue was most stable and folded four orders of magnitude faster than a swapped variant. Domain swap of spidroin CTDs induces an entropic penalty to the folding of peripheral helices, thus unfastening them for acid‐induced unfolding within a spinning duct, which primes them for refolding into alternative structures during silk formation.
Design of the second‐order robust exact differentiator: A describing function approach
Authors: Pérez‐Ventura Ulises , Escobar Jonathan , Fridman Leonid , Iriarte Rafael
Published: September 2023

The paper proposes a design methodology for the second‐order robust exact differentiator in the presence of small time‐delays characterizing the time of signal processing. With this aim, the describing function is used to provide several sets of the gains ensuring high accuracy in the reconstruction of the first‐order derivative of smooth signals, that is, minimizing the main harmonic of chattering. The proposal fulfills the Loeb's criterion: if self‐excited oscillations appear in the trajectories of the delayed differentiator, they are orbital and asymptotically stable. Besides the global finite‐time stability of the error is proved for the non‐delayed differentiator under such gains settings by using a homogeneous Lyapunov function. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the results.
Suppressed Ion Migration in FA‐Rich Perovskite Photovoltaics through Enhanced Nucleation of Encapsulation Interface
Authors: Li Jianlin , Xing Zhi , Li Dengxue , Wang Yajun , Hu Xiaotian , Hu Ting , Chen Yiwang
Published: September 2023

With excellent homogeneity, compactness and controllable thickness, atomic layer deposition (ALD) technology is widely used in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, residual organic sources and undesired reactions pose serious challenges to device performance as well as stability. Here, ester groups of poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) are introduced as a reaction medium to promote the nucleation and complete conversion of tetrakis(dimethylamino)tin(IV) (TDMA‐Sn). Through simulations and experiments, it is verified that ester groups as Lewis bases can coordinate with TDMA‐Sn to facilitate homogeneous deposition of ALD‐SnOx, which acts as self‐encapsulated interface with blocking properties against external moisture as well as internal ion migration. Meanwhile, a comprehensive evaluation of the self‐encapsulated interface reveals that the energy level alignment is optimized to improve the carrier transport. Finally, the self‐encapsulated device obtains a champion photovoltaic conversion efficiency (PCE) of 22.06% and retains 85% of the initial PCE after being stored at 85 °C with relative humidity of 85% for more than 800 h.
PEO‐Based Solid Composite Polymer Electrolyte for High Capacity Retention All‐Solid‐State Lithium Metal Battery
Authors: Khan Kashif , Hanif Muhammad Bilal , Xin Hu , Hussain Arshad , Ali Hina Ghulam , Fu Bowen , Fang Zixuan , Motola Martin , Xu Ziqiang , Wu Mengqiang
Published: September 2023

The limited ionic conductivity at room temperature and the constrained electrochemical window of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) pose significant obstacles that hinder its broader utilization in high‐energy‐density lithium metal batteries. The garnet‐type material Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12 (LLZTO) is recognized as a highly promising active filler for enhancing the performance of PEO‐based solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs). However, its performance is still limited by its high interfacial resistance. In this study, a novel hybrid filler‐designed SPE is employed to achieve excellent electrochemical performance for both the lithium metal anode and the LiFePO4 cathode. The solid composite membrane containing hybrid fillers achieves a maximum ionic conductivity of 1.9 × 10−4 S cm−1 and a Li+ transference number of 0.67 at 40 °C, respectively. Additionally, the Li/Li symmetric cells demonstrate a smooth and stable process for 2000 h at a current density of 0.1 mA cm−2. Furthermore, the LiFePO4/Li battery delivers a high‐rate capacity of 159.2 mAh g−1 at 1 C, along with a capacity retention of 95.2% after 400 cycles. These results validate that employing a composite of both active and inactive fillers is an effective strategy for achieving superior performance in all‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries (ASSLMBs).
Robust Micro‐Sized and Defect‐Rich Carbon–Carbon Composites as Advanced Anodes for Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Quan Zhuohua , Wang Fei , Wang Yuchen , Liu Zhendong , Zhang Chengzhi , Qi Fulai , Zhang Mingchang , Ye Chong , Tan Jun , Liu Jinshui
Published: September 2023

Pitch‐derived carbon (PC) anode features the merits of low‐cost, rich edge‐defect sites, and tunable crystallization degree for potassium ion batteries (PIBs). However, gaining the PC anode with both rich edge‐defect sites and robust structure remains challenging. Herein, micro‐sized and robust PC/expanded‐graphite (EG) composites (EGC) with rich edge‐defect sites are massively synthesized via melting impregnation and confined pyrolysis. The PC is in situ encapsulated in micro‐sized EG skeleton with robust chemical bonds between PC and EG after thermal treatment, endowing the structural stability as micro‐sized carbon–carbon composites. The confinement effect originating from EG skeleton could suppress the crystallization degree of the PC and contribute rich edge‐defect sites in EGC composites. Additionally, the EG skeleton inside EGC could form continuous electronic conduction nets and establish low‐tortuosity carbonaceous electrodes, facilitating rapid electron/ion migration. While applied in PIBs, the EGC anode delivers a reversible capacity that up to 338.5 mAh g‒1 at 0.1 A g‒1, superior rate performance of 127.5 mAh g‒1 at 5.0 A g‒1, and long‐term stability with 204.8 mAh g‒1 retain after 700 cycles at 1.0 A g‒1. This novel strategy highlights an interesting category of heterogeneous carbon–carbon composite materials to keep pace with the demand for the future PIBs industry.
Rechargeable Zinc–Air Batteries: Advances, Challenges, and Prospects
Authors: Lv Xian‐Wei , Wang Zhongli , Lai Zhuangzhuang , Liu Yuping , Ma Tianyi , Geng Jianxin , Yuan Zhong‐Yong
Published: September 2023

Rechargeable zinc–air batteries (Re‐ZABs) are one of the most promising next‐generation batteries that can hold more energy while being cost‐effective and safer than existing devices. Nevertheless, zinc dendrites, non‐portability, and limited charge–discharge cycles have long been obstacles to the commercialization of Re‐ZABs. Over the past 30 years, milestone breakthroughs have been made in technical indicators (safety, high energy density, and long battery life), battery components (air cathode, zinc anode, and gas diffusion layer), and battery configurations (flexibility and portability), however, a comprehensive review on advanced design strategies for Re‐ZABs system from multiple angles is still lacking. This review underscores the progress and strategies proposed so far to pursuit the high‐efficiency Re‐ZABs system, including the aspects of rechargeability (from primary to rechargeable), air cathode (from unifunctional to bifunctional), zinc anode (from dendritic to stable), electrolytes (from aqueous to non‐aqueous), battery configurations (from non‐portable to portable), and industrialization progress (from laboratorial to practical). Critical appraisals of the advanced modification approaches (such as surface/interface modulation, nanoconfinement catalysis, defect electrochemistry, synergistic electrocatalysis, etc.) are highlighted for cost‐effective flexible Re‐ZABs with good sustainability and high energy density. Finally, insights are further rendered properly for the future research directions of advanced zinc–air batteries.
Interfacial Micro‐Environment of Electrocatalysis and Its Applications for Organic Electro‐Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Liu Yi , Yang Zhihui , Zou Yuqin , Wang Shuangyin , He Junying
Published: September 2023

Conventional designing principal of electrocatalyst is focused on the electronic structure tuning, on which effectively promotes the electrocatalysis. However, as a typical kind of electrode–electrolyte interface reaction, the electrocatalysis performance is also closely dependent on the electrocatalyst interfacial micro‐environment (IME), including pH, reactant concentration, electric field, surface geometry structure, hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity, etc. Recently, organic electro‐oxidation reaction (OEOR), which simultaneously reduces the anodic polarization potential and produces value‐added chemicals, has emerged as a competitive alternative to oxygen evolution reaction, and the role IME played in OEOR is receiving great interest. Thus, this article provides a timely review on IME and its applications toward OEOR. In this review, the IME for conventional gas‐involving reactions, as a contrast, is first presented, and then the recent progresses of IME toward diverse typical OEOR are summarized; especially, some representative works are thoroughly discussed. Additionally, cutting‐edge analytical methods and characterization techniques are introduced to comprehensively understand the role IME played in OEOR. In the last section, perspectives and challenges of IME regulation for OEOR are shared.
Applications of Boron Cluster Supramolecular Frameworks as Metal‐Free Chemodynamic Therapy Agents for Melanoma
Authors: Xu Xiaoran , Deng Xuefan , Li Yi , Xia Shiying , Baryshnikov Glib , Bondarchuk Sergey V. , Ågren Hans , Wang Xinyu , Liu Pan , Tan Yujia , Huang Tianhe , Zhang Haibo , Wei Yongchang
Published: September 2023

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) is a highly targeted approach to treat cancer since it converts hydrogen peroxide into harmful hydroxyl radicals (OH·) through Fenton or Fenton‐like reactions. However, the systemic toxicity of metal‐based CDT agents has limited their clinical applications. Herein, a metal‐free CDT agent: 2,4,6‐tri(4‐pyridyl)‐1,3,5‐triazine (TPT)/ [closo‐B12H12]2−(TPT@ B12H12) is reported. Compared to the traditional metal‐based CDT agents, TPT@B12H12 is free of metal avoiding cumulative toxicity during long‐term therapy. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation revealed that TPT@B12H12 decreased the activation barrier more than 3.5 times being a more effective catalyst than the Fe2+ ion (the Fenton reaction), which decreases the barrier about twice. Mechanismly, the theory calculation indicated that both [B12H12]−· and [TPT‐H]2+ have the capacity to decompose hydrogen into 1O2, OH·, and O2−·. With electron paramagnetic resonance and fluorescent probes, it is confirmed that TPT@B12H12 increases the levels of 1O2, OH·, and O2−·. More importantly, TPT@B12H12 effectively suppress the melanoma growth both in vitro and in vivo through 1O2, OH·, and O2−· generation. This study specifically highlights the great clinical translational potential of TPT@B12H12 as a CDT reagent.
The lived experience of depression: a bottom‐up review co‐written by experts by experience and academics
Authors: Fusar‐Poli Paolo , Estradé Andrés , Stanghellini Giovanni , Esposito Cecilia Maria , Rosfort René , Mancini Milena , Norman Peter , Cullen Julieann , Adesina Miracle , Jimenez Gema Benavides , da Cunha Lewin Caroline , Drah Esenam A. , Julien Marc , Lamba Muskan , Mutura Edwin M. , Prawira Benny , Sugianto Agus , Teressa Jaleta , White Lawrence A. , Damiani Stefano , Vasconcelos Candida , Bonoldi Ilaria , Politi Pierluigi , Vieta Eduard , Radden Jennifer , Fuchs Thomas , Ratcliffe Matthew , Maj Mario
Published: September 2023

We provide here the first bottom‐up review of the lived experience of depression, co‐written by experts by experience and academics. First‐person accounts within and outside the medical field were screened and discussed in collaborative workshops involving numerous individuals with lived experience of depression, family members and carers, representing a global network of organizations. The material was enriched by phenomenologically informed perspectives and shared with all collaborators in a cloud‐based system. The subjective world of depression was characterized by an altered experience of emotions and body (feeling overwhelmed by negative emotions, unable to experience positive emotions, stuck in a heavy aching body drained of energy, detached from the mind, the body and the world); an altered experience of the self (losing sense of purpose and existential hope, mismatch between the past and the depressed self, feeling painfully incarcerated, losing control over one's thoughts, losing the capacity to act on the world; feeling numb, empty, non‐existent, dead, and dreaming of death as a possible escape route); and an altered experience of time (experiencing an alteration of vital biorhythms, an overwhelming past, a stagnation of the present, and the impossibility of the future). The experience of depression in the social and cultural context was characterized by altered interpersonal experiences (struggling with communication, feeling loneliness and estrangement, perceiving stigma and stereotypes), and varied across different cultures, ethnic or racial minorities, and genders. The subjective perception of recovery varied (feeling contrasting attitudes towards recovery, recognizing recovery as a journey, recognizing one's vulnerability and the need for professional help), as did the experience of receiving pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and social as well as physical health interventions. These findings can inform clinical practice, research and education. This journey in the lived experience of depression can also help us to understand the nature of our own emotions and feelings, what is to believe in something, what is to hope, and what is to be a living human being.
20‐year trajectories of positive and negative symptoms after the first psychotic episode in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder: results from the OPUS study
Authors: Starzer Marie , Hansen Helene Gjervig , Hjorthøj Carsten , Albert Nikolai , Nordentoft Merete , Madsen Trine
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to identify the 20‐year trajectories of positive and negative symptoms after the first psychotic episode in a sample of patients with an ICD‐10 diagnosis of schizophrenia spectrum disorder, and to investigate the baseline characteristics and long‐term outcomes associated with these trajectories. A total of 373 participants in the OPUS trial were included in the study. Symptoms were assessed at baseline and after 1, 2, 5, 10 and 20 years using the Scales for the Assessment of Positive and Negative Symptoms. We used latent class growth mixture modelling to identify trajectories, and multinominal regression analyses to investigate predictors of membership to identified trajectories. Five trajectories of positive symptoms were identified: early continuous remission (50.9% of the sample), stable improvement (18.0%), intermittent symptoms (10.2%), relapse with moderate symptoms (11.9%), and continuous severe symptoms (9.1%). Substance use disorder (odds ratio, OR: 2.83, 95% CI: 1.09‐7.38, p=0.033), longer duration of untreated psychosis (OR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.00‐1.03, p=0.007) and higher level of negative symptoms (OR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.07‐2.39, p=0.021) were predictors of the relapse with moderate symptoms trajectory, while only longer duration of untreated psychosis (OR: 1.01, 95% CI: 1.00‐1.02, p=0.030) predicted membership to the continuous severe symptoms trajectory. Two trajectories of negative symptoms were identified: symptom remission (51.0%) and continuous symptoms (49.0%). Predictors of the continuous symptoms trajectory were male sex (OR: 3.03, 95% CI: 1.48‐6.02, p=0.002) and longer duration of untreated psychosis (OR: 1.01, 95% CI: 1.00‐1.02, p=0.034). Trajectories displaying continuous positive and negative symptoms were linked to lower neurocognition, as measured by the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS) (z‐score: –0.78, CI: –1.39 to –0.17, for continuous positive symptoms; z‐score: –0.33, CI: –0.53 to –0.13, for continuous negative symptoms). The same trajectories were also linked to higher use of antipsychotic medication at 20‐year follow‐up (continuous positive symptoms: 78%; continuous negative symptoms: 67%). These findings suggest that the majority of patients with first‐episode schizophrenia spectrum disorder have a trajectory with early stable remission of positive symptoms. Long duration of untreated psychosis and comorbid substance abuse are modifiable predictors of poor trajectories for positive symptoms in these patients. In about half of patients, negative symptoms do not improve over time. These symptoms, in addition to being associated with poor social and neurocognitive functioning, may prevent patients from seeking help.
Nonlinear oscillation of a microbeam due to an electric actuation—Comparison of approximate models
Authors: Andrianov Igor V. , Awrejcewicz Jan , Koblik Steve G. , Starushenko Galina A.
Published: September 2023

In this paper, oscillations of the electrically actuated microbeam are considered, described by strongly nonlinear differential equations. One of the essentially nonlinear effects is the pull‐in phenomenon, that is, the transition of the oscillatory regime to the attraction regime. This effect is considered in the paper on the basis of various approximate models. In particular, the error of replacing the original nonlinearity by its expansion in the Maclaurin series is estimated. It is shown that such an approximation can only be used for voltage values that are far from critical. Estimates are also given for initial displacements and velocities, which guarantee an oscillating character of solutions. The electrically activated oscillations of the microbeam are considered taking into account the geometric nonlinearity within the framework of the Kirchhoff model. The dependence of pull‐in value on geometric nonlinearity is investigated.
Analytical calculation of stress intensity factors for orthotropic plates containing cracks emanating from a circular hole using Schwarz integration
Authors: Moussavian Seyyed Hassan , Jafari Mohammad , Hajimohammadi Mojtaba
Published: September 2023

In this paper, a new analytical method is presented to determine the stress intensity factors (SIFs) of a generally orthotropic plate with cracks emanating from a circular hole. Therefore, using the Schwartz integration method, for the first time, the analytical solution is provided based on the complex variable method. In order to use the Schwartz's theorem in solving complex integrals, a new presentation of the mapping function has been presented, which leads to providing a simpler solution. After calculating the potential functions, the SIFs are determined for the circular hole with one and two cracks. Then, the effect of parameters such as fiber angle, different and unequal crack lengths, and different loadings are studied. To validate the results of the present analytical solution, some results have been compared with the results from other references. Comparing the results showed that the current solution has good accuracy and is reliable and the fiber angle has a significant effect on the mode II SIF. In the case that the fibers are along the crack length and the loading is perpendicular to the crack direction, the mode II SIF is zero, but if the fibers are not along the crack length, the value of the mode II SIF will not be zero. It is also shown that increasing the length of one crack increases the SIF of another crack as well.