bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prevalence of skin diseases in Greece, impact on quality of life and stigmatization: A population‐based survey study
Authors: Stratigos Alexander J. , Richard Marie A. , Dessinioti Clio , Paul Carle , Nijsten Tamar , Gisondi Paolo , Salavastru Carmen , Taieb Charles , Trakatelli Myrto , Puig Luis , Tzellos Thrasyvoulos , Ioannides Dimitrios ,   for the EADV burden of skin diseases project team
Published: December 2023

Background

There is no population‐based evidence on the prevalence and impact of skin diseases in Greece.

Objectives

To describe the prevalence of 12 main skin diseases and their impact on quality of life (QoL) and feelings of stigmatization in the Greek population.

Methods

A population‐based survey in an adult Greek representative sample was carried out as part of the multinational ‘EADV burden of skin diseases study’. Quality of life (QOL) was measured using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) from the EuroQol‐5D (EQ. 5D) questionnaires.

Results

In 1010 participants, 47.8% (n = 483) declared at least one skin disease or condition or skin‐related unpleasant sensation in the last 12 months. Fungal skin infection was reported with the higher prevalence (7.5%), followed by alopecia (5.7%), atopic dermatitis (5%), acne (3.6%), sexually transmitted diseases (2.7%), psoriasis (2.2%) chronic urticaria (1.5%), rosacea (1.3%), nonmelanoma skin cancer (1.5%), vitiligo (0.6%), cutaneous melanoma (0.6%) and hidradenitis suppurativa (0.3%). Mean VAS‐EQ. 5D and DLQI scores were 77.8 and 2.2, respectively. Among those reporting at least one skin problem, 68.1% reported an impact of the skin condition on their personal life and 51% reported an impact on time to take care of themselves. Regarding the impact on work‐life decisions, 22.2% reoriented their professional activity, 13% were refused a professional offer, 22.2% did not get the job they hoped to and 16.7% chose their work with their skin problem in mind. Regarding feelings of stigmatization, 12% felt left out/rejected by others, 6.6% were refused access to leisure facilities and 9.8% reported the impression to be looked at with disgust.

Conclusions

Our population‐based study provides new information on the prevalence of skin diseases in the Southern European country of Greece and highlights the impact of prevalent skin disease on life‐altering decisions and stigmatization.
Vertically Aligned Perovskite Laser Arrays for High‐Capacity Anticounterfeiting Labels
Authors: Liu Liang , Mao Wangqi , Gao Xinyu , He Chenglin , Tang Zilan , Chang Hao , Zhang Long , Wang Xiaoxia , Dong Hongxing , Pan Anlian
Published: December 2023

Physically unclonable functions (PUFs) have emerged as the most effective method against counterfeiting, leveraging the intrinsic randomness of objects to avoid data replication. However, despite their efficacy, the complexity and high cost of most PUF‐based counterfeiting labels hinder their practical application. Here, a high‐capacity PUF label based on vertically aligned perovskite nanowire (NW) arrays is demonstrated. The NW arrays are conveniently constructed using a low‐cost solution process using an anodized aluminum oxide template. Each pixel within the label is composed of closely packed CsPbBr3NW arrays of different lengths, resulting in varied lasing signals. The collected signal of each pixel emerged from the lasing output of the NW arrays, generating high‐density and nonuniform multiple‐mode lasing to facilitate information encoding. A quaternary encoding mechanism is used to encode the number of laser modes per pixel. Impressively, it exhibits a mapping resolution of 1600 pixels within 400 µm2, achieving an impressive encoding capacity (1.97 × 10963) and a pixel density (4 bits µm−2) in this compact area. This work shows a promising approach for anticounterfeiting applications because of its simplicity, low cost, and high encoding capacity.
Decellularized Bone Matrix/45S5 Bioactive Glass Biocomposite Hydrogel‐Based Constructs with Angiogenic and Osteogenic Properties: Ex Ovo and Ex Vivo Evaluations
Authors: Aytekin Ekin , Vurat Murat Taner , Elçin Ayşe Eser , Elçin Yaşar Murat
Published: December 2023

Decellularized extracellular matrix is often used to create an in vivo‐like environment that supports cell growth and proliferation, as it reflects the micro/macrostructure and molecular composition of tissues. On the other hand, bioactive glasses (BG) are surface‐reactive glass‐ceramics that can convert to hydroxyapatite in vivo and promote new bone formation. This study is designed to evaluate the key properties of a novel angiogenic and osteogenic biocomposite graft made of bovine decellularized bone matrix (DBM) hydrogel and 45S5 BG microparticles (10 and 20 wt%) to combine the existing superior properties of both biomaterial classes. Morphological, physicochemical, mechanical, and thermal characterizations of DBM and DBM/BG composite hydrogels are performed. Their in vitro biocompatibility is confirmed by cytotoxicity and hemocompatibility analyses. Ex vivo chick embryo aortic arch and ex ovo chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assays reveal that the present pro‐angiogenic property of DBM hydrogels is enhanced by the incorporation of BG. Histochemical stainings (Alcian blue and Alizarin red) and digital image analysis of ossification on hind limbs of embryos used in the CAM model reveal the osteogenic potential of biomaterials. The findings support the notion that the developed DBM/BG composite hydrogel constructs have the potential to be a suitable graft for bone repair.
Self‐Degrading Multifunctional PEG‐Based Hydrogels—Tailormade Substrates for Cell Culture
Authors: Kowalczuk Kathrin , Dasgupta Anindita , Páez Larios Francisco , Ulrich Hans F. , Wegner Valentin , Brendel Johannes C. , Eggeling Christian , Mosig Alexander S. , Schacher Felix H.
Published: December 2023

The use of PEG‐based hydrogels as cell culture matrix to mimic the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) has been realized using a range of well‐defined, tunable, and dynamic scaffolds, although they require cell adhesion ligands such as RGDS‐peptide (Arg‐Gly‐Asp‐Ser) to promote cell adhesion. Herein the synthesis of ionic and degradable hydrogels is demonstrated for cell culture by crosslinking [PEG‐SH]4 with the zwitterionic crosslinker N,N‐bis(acryloxyethyl)‐N‐methyl‐N‐(3‐sulfopropyl) ammonium betaine (BMSAB) and the cationic crosslinker N,N‐bis(acryloxyethyl)‐N,N‐dimethyl‐1‐ammonium iodide (BDMAI). Depending on the amount of ionic crosslinker used in gel formation, the hydrogels show tunable gelation time and stiffness. At the same time, the ionic groups act as catalysts for hydrolytic degradation, thereby allowing to define a stability window. The latter could be tailored in a straightforward manner by introducing the non‐degradable crosslinker tri(ethylene glycol) divinyl ether. In addition, both ionic crosslinkers favor cell attachment in comparison to the pristine PEG hydrogels. The degradation is examined by swelling behavior, rheology, and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy indicating degradation kinetics depending on diffusion of incorporated fluorescent molecules.
The Soft Nanodots as Fluorescent Probes for Cell Imaging: Analysis of Cell and Spheroid Penetration Behavior of Single Chain Polymer Dots
Authors: Yucel Muge , Onbas Rabia , Arslan Yildiz Ahu , Yildiz Umit Hakan
Published: December 2023

This study describes the formation, size control, and penetration behavior of polymer nanodots (Pdots) consisting of single or few chain polythiophene‐based conjugated polyelectrolytes (CPEs) via nanophase separation between good solvent and poor solvent of CPE. Though the chain singularity may be associated with dilution nanophase separation suggests that molecules of a good solvent create a thermodynamically driven solvation layer surrounding the CPEs and thereby separating the single chains even in their poor solvents. This statement is therefore corroborated with emission intensity/lifetime, particle size, and scattering intensity of polyelectrolyte in good and poor solvents. Regarding the augmented features, Pdots are implemented into cell imaging studies to understand the nuclear penetration and to differentiate the invasive characteristics of breast cancer cells. The python based red, green, blue (RGB) color analysis   depicts that Pdots have more nuclear penetration ability in triple negative breast cancer cells due to the different nuclear morphology in shape and composition and Pdots have penetrated cell membrane as well as extracellular matrix in spheroid models. The current Pdot protocol and its utilization in cancer cell imaging are holding great promise for gene/drug delivery to target cancer cells by explicitly achieving the very first priority of nuclear intake.
Effect of Surface Properties of Nanoparticles on the Crystallization Behavior of Polypropylene/Polypropylene‐g‐Silica Nanocomposites
Authors: Ju Weilong , Li Shaofan , Su Yunlan , Wang Dujin
Published: December 2023

In order to investigate the effect of surface properties of nanoparticles (NPs) on the crystallization behavior of nanocomposite, three kinds of silica (SiO2) NPs are dispersed in isotactic polypropylene (iPP) matrix by solution blending method. Specifically, the poor compatibility between inorganic bare SiO2 NPs and organic PP matrix triggers the formation of aggregates and induces the fractionated crystallization with two crystallization peaks at higher particle loading (Φ), i.e., main crystallization peak (MCP) and low temperature crystallization peak (LCP, always located at 124.0 °C). Once short PP chains (0.9 × 104 g mol−1) are grafted onto the surface of SiO2 NPs, the nanocomposites with all Φ only exhibit a single MCP which is attributed to the strong interfacial interaction. With the increase of grafting chain length (9 × 104 g mol−1), the more stretched conformation of grafting chains can provide numerous heterogeneous nucleation sites and significantly accelerate the crystallization rate of PP chains near the surface of SiO2 NPs, which lead to the formation of an extra high temperature crystallization peak (HCP, almost kept constant at 133.0 °C). The occurrence of various crystallization peaks implies that the surface properties of nanoparticles play a vital role in the nucleation ability of nanoparticles.
H‐Bonded Amorphous Polymer Glass Nanofibers with Simultaneously Large Enhancement in Strength, Toughness, Ductility, and Thermal Stability
Authors: Gaikwad Adwait , Kolluru Pavan V.
Published: December 2023

Understanding the direct effects of hydrogen bonding (H‐bonding) on the mechanical response of glassy state polymers remains a challenge, largely owing to the use of semicrystalline polymers in such studies, wherein, separating the contributions due to the changes in degree of crystallinity and direct H‐bonding effects on the observed mechanical properties is extremely difficult. This limitation is overcome by studying the mechanical behavior of amorphous, glassy polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), H‐bonded with tannic acid (TA). Uniaxial tension experiments on individual submicron scale PVP fibers (0.6–1.0 µm diameters) with different TA concentrations are conducted to capture their elasto‐plastic deformation characteristics. Amorphous PVP‐TA complexes exhibited some distinctive trends in elasto‐plastic properties with increasing H‐bond density, which are not observed earlier. These distinctive trends are discussed in terms of the competing effects of H‐bond driven crosslinking and TA‐induced reduction in entanglement density, and their differing roles during elastic and plastic deformation. The improvements in elasto‐plastic properties (particularly ductility and toughness) are simultaneously accompanied by uniquely significant thermal stability (i.e., glass transition temperature, Tg) improvements, that can help improve the practical applicability, operational life, and performance of these materials.
Heterogeneous hybrid governance mechanisms of information technology and contract in supply chain quality management
Authors: Cheng Zhaolin , Zeng Mengjia
Published: December 2023

This study scrutinizes the heterogeneous hybrid governance mechanisms of information technology and contact in supply chain quality management. Drawing on governance theory and features of information technology, a conceptual model is proposed. Based on the survey data obtained from 154 manufacturing firms' managers, we use the structural equation modeling method to test our conceptual model. The method of partial least squares is used to analyze the structural equation model. We find that Information transparency and contract completeness are substitutes, and information traceability and contract completeness are complements.
Multi‐institutional consensus on machine QA for isochronous cyclotron‐based systems delivering ultra‐high dose rate (FLASH) pencil beam scanning proton therapy in transmission mode
Authors: Spruijt Kees , Mossahebi Sina , Lin Haibo , Lee Eunsin , Kraus James , Dhabaan Anees , Poulsen Per , Lowe Matthew , Ayan Ahmet , Spiessens Sylvie , Godart Jeremy , Hoogeman Mischa
Published: December 2023

Background

The first clinical trials to assess the feasibility of FLASH radiotherapy in humans have started (FAST‐01, FAST‐02) and more trials are foreseen. To increase comparability between trials it is important to assure treatment quality and therefore establish a standard for machine quality assurance (QA). Currently, the AAPM TG‐224 report is considered as the standard on machine QA for proton therapy, however, it was not intended to be used for ultra‐high dose rate (UHDR) proton beams, which have gained interest due to the observation of the FLASH effect.

Purpose

The aim of this study is to find consensus on practical guidelines on machine QA for UHDR proton beams in transmission mode in terms of which QA is required, how they should be done, which detectors are suitable for UHDR machine QA, and what tolerance limits should be applied.

Methods

A risk assessment to determine the gaps in the current standard for machine QA was performed by an international group of medical physicists. Based on that, practical guidelines on how to perform machine QA for UHDR proton beams were proposed.

Results

The risk assessment clearly identified the need for additional guidance on temporal dosimetry, addressing dose rate (constancy), dose spillage, and scanning speed. In addition, several minor changes from AAPM TG‐224 were identified; define required dose rate levels, the use of clinically relevant dose levels, and the use of adapted beam settings to minimize activation of detector and phantom materials or to avoid saturation effects of specific detectors. The final report was created based on discussions and consensus.

Conclusions

Consensus was reached on what QA is required for UHDR scanning proton beams in transmission mode for isochronous cyclotron‐based systems and how they should be performed. However, the group discussions also showed that there is a lack of high temporal resolution detectors and sufficient QA data to set appropriate limits for some of the proposed QA procedures.
Pushing MP2RAGE boundaries: Ultimate time‐efficient parameterization combined with exhaustive T1 synthetic contrasts
Authors: Bapst Blanche , Massire Aurélien , Mauconduit Franck , Gras Vincent , Boulant Nicolas , Dufour Juliette , Bodini Benedetta , Stankoff Bruno , Luciani Alain , Vignaud Alexandre
Published: December 2023

Purpose

MP2RAGE parameter optimization is redefined to allow more time‐efficient MR acquisitions, whereas the T1‐based synthetic imaging framework is used to obtain on‐demand T1‐weighted contrasts. Our aim was to validate this concept on healthy volunteers and patients with multiple sclerosis, using plug‐and‐play parallel‐transmission brain imaging at 7 T.

Methods

A “time‐efficient” MP2RAGE sequence was designed with optimized parameters including TI and TR set as small as possible. Extended phase graph formalism was used to set flip‐angle values to maximize the gray–to–white‐matter contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR). Several synthetic contrasts (UNI, EDGE, FGATIR, FLAWSMIN, FLAWSHCO) were generated online based on the acquired T1 maps. Experimental validation was performed on 4 healthy volunteers at various spatial resolutions. Clinical applicability was evaluated on 6 patients with multiple sclerosis, scanned with both time‐efficient and conventional MP2RAGE parameterizations.

Results

The proposed time‐efficient MP2RAGE protocols reduced acquisition time by 40%, 30%, and 19% for brain imaging at (1 mm)3, (0.80 mm)3 and (0.65 mm)3, respectively, when compared with conventional parameterizations. They also provided all synthetic contrasts and comparable contrast‐to‐noise ratio on UNI images. The flexibility in parameter selection allowed us to obtain a whole‐brain (0.45 mm)3 acquisition in 19 min 56 s. On patients with multiple sclerosis, a (0.67 mm)3 time‐efficient acquisition enhanced cortical lesion visualization compared with a conventional (0.80 mm)3 protocol, while decreasing the scan time by 15%.

Conclusion

The proposed optimization, associated with T1‐based synthetic contrasts, enabled substantial decrease of the acquisition time or higher spatial resolution scans for a given time budget, while generating all typical brain contrasts derived from MP2RAGE.
Exploiting gradient‐echo frequency evolution: Probing white matter microstructure and extracting bulk susceptibility‐induced frequency for quantitative susceptibility mapping
Authors: Chen Lin , Shin Hyeong‐Geol , van Zijl Peter C. M. , Li Xu
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This work is to investigate the microstructure‐induced frequency shift in white matter (WM) with crossing fibers and to separate the microstructure‐related frequency shift from the bulk susceptibility‐induced frequency shift by model fitting the gradient‐echo (GRE) frequency evolution for potentially more accurate quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM).

Methods

A hollow‐cylinder fiber model (HCFM) with two fiber populations was developed to investigate GRE frequency evolutions in WM voxels with microstructural orientation dispersion. The simulated and experimentally measured TE‐dependent local frequency shift was then fitted to a simplified frequency evolution model to obtain a microstructure‐related frequency difference parameter () and a TE‐independent bulk susceptibility‐induced frequency shift (). The obtained was then used for QSM reconstruction. Reconstruction performances were evaluated using a numerical head phantom and in vivo data and then compared to other multi‐echo combination methods.

Results

GRE frequency evolutions and ‐based tissue parameters in both parallel and crossing fibers determined from our simulations were comparable to those observed in vivo. The TE‐dependent frequency fitting method outperformed other multi‐echo combination methods in estimating in simulations. The fitted , , and QSM could be improved further by navigator‐based B0 fluctuation correction.

Conclusion

A HCFM with two fiber populations can be used to characterize microstructure‐induced frequency shifts in WM regions with crossing fibers. HCFM‐based TE‐dependent frequency fitting provides tissue contrast related to microstructure () and in addition may help improve the quantification accuracy of and the corresponding QSM.
Phase‐field modelling of cohesive interface failure
Authors: de Borst R. , Chen L.
Published: December 2023

A cohesive interface model is proposed in the framework of the phase‐field approach. The discrete interface is transformed into a smeared interface by a regularisation strategy. Nevertheless, the fracture energy is made dependent on the displacement jump, which is approximated by a first‐order Taylor expansion of the displacement at the interface. Its value relies on a proper choice of the distance parameter from the interface. We have derived an optimal distance parameter from the analytical solution of a uniaxial tension problem. The accuracy of the approach for cohesive interface modelling is validated in a one‐dimensional numerical test and is demonstrated by two examples, including a ‘H’‐shaped plate and a fibre embedded in an epoxy matrix, featuring straight and curved interfaces.
Characterization of biodegradable composite based on microalgae modified glycerol‐plasticized‐starch films
Authors: El Mogy Soma A. , Mourad Reda M. , Abdel‐Hakim Ahmed
Published: December 2023

The present study focuses on how microalgae protein biomass, such as spirulina (SP), can be used to create thermoplastic blends and algal‐based bioplastics. Algal bioplastics can be customized for a variety of material properties and applications while remaining biodegradable. In this work, the casting approach has been performed to create spirulina‐starch‐glycerol composite films by adding SP to plasticized starch films. The characteristics and properties of the composite films were inspected by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), tensile strength, antimicrobial activity, and biodegradation analysis. The composite film with 3% SP was found to have the best combination of mechanical and chemical properties, and additional SP causes the mechanical properties to degrade. The results demonstrated that bio‐composites prepared by plasticized starch and containing SP could be promising in the development of new environmentally friendly bio‐nanocomposites for interesting applications in food packaging.
Malignancy, masculinities, and psychological distress: Comparisons made between men with testicular cancer and healthy controls
Authors: Dax Victoria , Ftanou Maria , Tran Ben , Lewin Jeremy , Wiley Joshua F.
Published: December 2023

Objective

Psychological distress is common in men with testicular cancer (TC), and masculinities may work to explain this. This study aimed to compare masculinities and distress in TC and healthy control (HC) populations and explore relationships between correlates of distress (psychological flexibility and coping style) and masculinities in TC.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, online survey was completed by 92 men with TC (Mage = 34.8) and 90 HC (Mage = 30.7). Measures included psychological distress (Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Depression/Anxiety, fear of cancer recurrence inventory‐short form), masculinities (gender role conflict‐short form, inventory of subjective masculinity experiences/subjective masculinity stress scale, masculinity in chronic disease inventory), coping style (mini‐mental adjustment to cancer ) and psychological flexibility (comprehensive assessment of acceptance commitment therapy). Linear regressions were conducted to compare groups and analyse associations.

Results

There were no differences in masculinities or psychological distress between populations (all p > 0.05 and all Cohen's d < 0.20), except for subjective masculine stress and restrictive affectionate behaviour between men. For men with TC, restrictive affection/emotion, conflicts between family/work and subjective masculine stress were associated with psychological distress (rs 0.21–0.58). Optimistic action was negatively associated with depression/anxiety, helplessness/hopelessness coping (rs −0.27 to −0.42) and positively associated with psychological flexibility (r = 0.35).

Conclusions

Masculinities are implicated in psychological distress in men with TC. Psychological flexibility as well as leveraging masculine beliefs (e.g., optimistic action) may be modifiable targets to reduce distress in men with TC.
Ferroelectric‐Gated HfZrO2/AlGaN/GaN High‐Electron‐Mobility Transistors with Regrown Contacts for Radio Frequency and Millimeter‐Wave Switch Applications
Authors: Jönsson Adam , Turner Wesley , Ye Hansheng , Wu Weifeng , Venkatesan Nivedita , Xie Andy , Beam Edward , Cao Yu , Fay Patrick
Published: December 2023

Emerging millimeter‐wave wireless communication systems require high‐performance radio frequency switches to support advanced functionality such as frequency agility, circuit reconfigurability, and beamforming. Ferroelectric (FE)‐gated AlGaN/GaN high‐electron‐mobility transistors (HEMTs) (FeHEMTs) are developed and demonstrated as a technology option for this important role. AlGaN/GaN HEMT heterostructures grown by metal‐organic chemical vapor deposition are augmented with a FE gate stack comprising atomic layer deposition‐grown HfZrO2. In addition, highly doped regrown source and drain Ohmic contacts are integrated into an improved fabrication process flow. This improved process leads to contact resistances of 0.105 Ω mm and a reduction in switch on‐resistance as compared to prior reports, as well as drain current densities of 1 A mm−1 and measured ft = 54 GHz for gate lengths of 0.1 μm. The improved contact and gate length scaling makes FeHEMTs a promising candidate for mm‐wave switch applications achieving a reported switch figure of merit of fCO = 1.55 THz.
Early experiences in robotic single‐site plus one port platform for complex hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery
Authors: Chong Jae Uk , Lee Ju Yeon , Lim Jin Hong
Published: December 2023

Background

Minimal invasive surgery in hepatobiliary and pancreatic (HBP) surgery has been accepted worldwide in recent years. However, applications of single‐site laparoscopic surgery in complex HBP surgery have been limited due to difficulty in manoeuvring instruments and the limited range of motion resulting from clashing instruments.

Methods

To overcome the limitations, we have used the Da Vinci single‐site surgical platform with one additional port in a Da Vinci Xi system to perform donor right hepatectomy, pancreaticoduodenectomy, and combined resection of the common bile duct and spleen vessels preserving distal pancreatectomy.

Results

In selected patients, using a robotic single‐site plus one port system allowed the successful completion of complex HBP surgery.

Discussion

Complex HBP surgery can be performed safely in a stable environment using the robotic single‐site plus one port system. Further exploration of a robotic single‐site plus one port in complex HBP surgery is necessary.
Adopting a socio‐material perspective on life cycle assessment: Environmental impacts of circular tableware systems in Italy's bioplastics context
Authors: Walker Anna M. , Simboli Alberto , Vermeulen Walter J. V. , Raggi Andrea
Published: December 2023

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is amongst the most frequently used methodologies to identify and evaluate the environmental impacts of the circular supply chain configurations. This article aims to showcase how a socio‐material perspective can increase the embeddedness of such an assessment within inter‐firm networks. A comparative LCA of two circular product systems is conducted, namely single‐use and reusable tableware within a canteen located in northern Italy. To contextualise the LCA, the Actor Network Theory (ANT) is used as an epistemological lens to identify the framing and problematisation of bioplastics in Italy, as well as the power constellation of actors affecting the bioplastics life cycle. The ANT complements the LCA in three ways: firstly, it informs the end‐of‐life modelling of the product systems away from public narratives to the actual waste management practices and secondly, it contextualises the interpretation of the LCA results—in favour of the reuse system—with the socio‐technical factors in Italy. Finally, the socio‐material perspective allows for a discussion on the performative role of LCA in the light of its increasing popularity in the public and private sectors and on its potential to guide more sustainable production and consumption patterns.
Towards a software industry corporate social responsibility reference model for software sustainability
Authors: Jiménez Elisa , Moraga Mª. Ángeles , García Félix , Calero Coral , García‐Mireles Gabriel Alberto
Published: December 2023

Over the last few years, sustainability has become increasingly relevant in different areas of industry. However, from the point of view of the software companies, the concept of software sustainability is still underdeveloped, as software emissions are not as easily observable as in other sectors, such as the power generation. A starting point for software development companies to tackle software sustainability is the inclusion of actions focused on improving software sustainability within their corporate social responsibility (CSR). For this reason, in this work, a set of specific software sustainability actions aligned with ISO 26000 corporate social responsibility standard is proposed. By including these actions in the CSR of software companies, they can improve sustainability aspects associated with software. In addition, the proposal was applied to six leading companies in the software sector in order to check its suitability and applicability.
Effect of renewable energy on economic growth in sub‐Saharan Africa: Role of institutional quality
Authors: Diallo Souleymane , Ouoba Youmanli
Published: December 2023

The development of renewable energy is considered as an important step toward sustainable development. In sub‐Saharan African (SSA) countries, institutional quality can play an essential role in encouraging investment and implementation of policies favoring renewable energy. This paper examines the role of institutional quality in the effect of renewable energy on economic growth across 25 SSA countries from 2002 to 2018. The results from the dynamic panel threshold model reveal a significant threshold effect of institutional quality on the contribution of renewable energy to economic growth. While renewable energy consumption positively contributes to economic growth, its impact is notably amplified when the institutional quality index, set at 0.304, is above the threshold. Our findings remain robust when altering institutional quality indicators. In terms of economic implications, improving overall institutional quality by promoting good political, economic, and institutional governance could significantly increase the contribution of renewable energies to economic growth in SSA countries.
Co‐Delivery of siNRF2 and Sorafenib by a “Click” Dual Functioned Hyperbranched Nanocarrier for Synergistically Inducing Ferroptosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Tong Rongliang , Feng Xiaode , Sun Jingqi , Ling Zhenan , Wang Jun , Li Shun , Yang Beng , Deng Junfang , He Guijin , Wu Jian
Published: December 2023

In the course of antitumor therapy, the complex tumor microenvironment and drug‐mediated changes in cell signaling and biological processes lead to drug resistance. The effect of sorafenib is greatly limited by the specific tumor microenvironment induced by antiangiogenic therapy and ferroptosis resistance induced by the upregulation of nuclear factor erythroid‐2 related factor 2 (NRF2). In this study, a pH responsive and amphiphilic hyperbranched polyglycerol, HDP, is synthesized based on a co‐graft click chemistry pathway. This nano‐scale carrier provides excellent drug‐loading capacity, storing stability and pH responsibility, and effectively co‐delivery of sorafenib and siRNA. Sorafenib and siNRF2 plays a greatly synergistic effect in inducing reactive oxygen species (ROS), iron overloading, depleting glutathione (GSH), and promoting lipid peroxidation. Importantly, verified in two different animal experiments, HDP‐ss (HDP loaded with both siNRF2 and sorafenib) presents a superior anti‐tumor effect, by achieving a tumor inhibition rate of ≈94%. Thus, HDP can serve as an excellent targeted delivery nanocarrier with good biocompatibility in antitumor therapy, and combined application of siNRF2 effectively improves the antitumor effect of sorafenib by overcoming NRF2‐mediated ferroptosis resistance. Taken together, this study provides a novel therapeutic strategy to combat the drug resistance in antiangiogenic therapy and ferroptosis.
Structural Heredity in Catalysis: CO2 Self‐Selective CeO2 Nanocrystals for Efficient Photothermal CO2 Hydrogenation to Methane
Authors: Zhang Kai , Xu Cuiping , Zhang Xingjian , Huang Zhiyi , Pian Qixiang , Che Kunhong , Cui Xiaokun , Hu Yueru , Xuan Yimin
Published: December 2023

The chemical inertness of CO2 molecules makes their adsorption and activation on a catalyst surface one of the key challenges in recycling CO2 into chemical fuels. However, the traditional template synthesis and chemical modification strategies used to tackle this problem face severe structural collapse and modifier deactivation issues during the often‐needed post‐processing procedure. Herein, a CO2 self‐selective hydrothermal growth strategy is proposed for the synthesis of CeO2 octahedral nanocrystals that participate in strong physicochemical interactions with CO2 molecules. The intense affinity for CO2 molecules persists during successive high‐temperature treatments required for Ni deposition. This demonstrates the excellent structural heredity of the CO2 self‐selective CeO2 nanocrystals, which leads to an outstanding photothermal CH4 productivity exceeding 9 mmol h‐1 mcat‐2 and an impressive selectivity of >99%. The excellent performance is correlated with the abundant oxygen vacancies and hydroxyl species on the CeO2 surface, which create many frustrated Lewis‐pair active sites, and the strong interaction between Ni and CeO2 that promotes the dissociation of H2 molecules and the spillover of H atoms, thereby greatly benefitting the photothermal CO2 methanation reaction. This self‐selective hydrothermal growth strategy represents a new pathway for the development of effective catalysts for targeted chemical reactions.
π‐Conjugated Macrocycles Confined Dual Single‐Atom Catalysts on Graphitized Bubbles for Oxygen Reduction, Evolution, and Batteries
Authors: Zhao Mengmeng , Sun Jiana , Luo Taigang , Yan Yibo , Huang Wei , Lee Jong‐Min
Published: December 2023

It is a great demand to develop high‐performance electrodes for metal–air batteries to boost cathodic oxygen reduction/evolution dynamics and avoid anodic dendrites. The optimization of catalysis at electrode can be conducted by increasing effective surface exposure, active site density, and unsaturated coordination, via using metal clusters or atomic catalysts, along with conductive or defective supports. Herein, the polarized and synergistic cooperation between dual single atom sites (Fe‐N4/Co‐N4) are developed through electrolytical exfoliation of defect‐enriched π‐conjugated macrocyclic polyphthalocyanines to expose more active sites on hollow carbonized shells (HCS). Such FeCo‐N4/HCS exhibits outstanding performance in oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), to achieve high‐performance in an aqueous zinc battery (AZB) with a high discharge capacity (763.6 mAhg−1) after 750 cycles at 10 mA cm−2, showing stable discharge voltage and excellent durability. It also possesses high performance in a lithium‐O2 battery owing to abundant defects, synergistic Fe‐N4/Co‐N4 active sites, reduced energy barriers, and boosted charge and mass transfer and reaction kinetics. This study provides novel perspectives to expand dual single‐metal catalysts on macrocycles in the exploration of efficient, durable, and eco‐friendly energy devices.
A Portable Integrated Electrochemical Sensing System for On‐Site Nitrite Detection in Food
Authors: Sun Yu , Xu Hanwen , Zhou Daqi , Xia Chenyu , Liu Wenquan , Cui Anni , Wang Ziyi , Zheng Wei , Shan Guiye , Huang Jipeng , Wang Xin
Published: December 2023

Ensuring an appropriate nitrite level in food is essential to keep the body healthy. However, it still remains a huge challenge to offer a portable and low‐cost on‐site food nitrite analysis without any expensive equipment. Herein, a portable integrated electrochemical sensing system (IESS) is developed to achieve rapid on‐site nitrite detection in food, which is composed of a low‐cost disposable microfluidic electrochemical patch for few‐shot nitrite detection, and a reusable smartphone‐assisted electronic device based on self‐designed circuit board for signal processing and wireless transmission. The electrochemical patch based on MXene‐Ti3C2Tx/multiwalled carbon nanotubes‐cyanocobalamin (MXene/MWCNTs‐VB12)‐modified working electrode achieves high sensitivity of 10.533 µA mm−1 and low nitrite detection limit of 4.22 µm owing to strong electron transfer ability of hybrid MXene/MWCNTs conductive matrix and high nitrite selectivity of VB12 bionic enzyme‐based ion‐selective layer. Moreover, the portable IESS can rapidly collect pending testing samples through a microfluidic electrochemical patch within 1.0 s to conduct immediate nitrite analysis, and then wirelessly transmit data from a signal‐processing electronic device to a smartphone via Bluetooth module. Consequently, this proposed portable IESS demonstrates rapid on‐site nitrite analysis and wireless data transmission within one palm‐sized electronic device, which would pave a new avenue in food safety and personal bespoke therapy.
Preparation and Application of Hemostatic Hydrogels
Authors: Zhou Minyu , Lin Xiang , Wang Li , Yang Chaoyu , Yu Yunru , Zhang Qingfei
Published: December 2023

Hemorrhage remains a critical challenge in various medical settings, necessitating the development of advanced hemostatic materials. Hemostatic hydrogels have emerged as promising solutions to address uncontrolled bleeding due to their unique properties, including biocompatibility, tunable physical characteristics, and exceptional hemostatic capabilities. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the preparation and biomedical applications of hemostatic hydrogels is provided. Particularly, hemostatic hydrogels with various materials and forms are introduced. Additionally, the applications of hemostatic hydrogels in trauma management, surgical procedures, wound care, etc. are summarized. Finally, the limitations and future prospects of hemostatic hydrogels are discussed and evaluated. This review aims to highlight the biomedical applications of hydrogels in hemorrhage management and offer insights into the development of clinically relevant hemostatic materials.
Skin‐Inspired, Highly Sensitive, Broad‐Range‐Response and Ultra‐Strong Gradient Ionogels Prepared by Electron Beam Irradiation
Authors: Hao Shuai , Chen Zhiyan , Li Haozhe , Yuan Jushigang , Chen Xihao , Sidorenko Alexander , Huang Jiang , Gu Yanlong
Published: December 2023

Skin, characterized by its distinctive gradient structure and interwoven fibers, possesses remarkable mechanical properties and highly sensitive attributes, enabling it to detect an extensive range of stimuli. Inspired by these inherent qualities, a pioneering approach involving the crosslinking of macromolecules through in situ electron beam irradiation (EBI) is proposed to fabricate gradient ionogels. Such a design offers remarkable mechanical properties, including excellent tensile properties (>1000%), exceptional toughness (100 MJ m−3), fatigue resistance, a broad temperature range (−65–200°C), and a distinctive gradient modulus change. Moreover, the ionogel sensor exhibits an ultra‐fast response time (60 ms) comparable to skin, an incredibly low detection limit (1 kPa), and an exceptionally wide detection range (1 kPa–1 MPa). The exceptional gradient ionogel material holds tremendous promise for applications in the field of smart sensors, presenting a distinct strategy for fabricating flexible gradient materials.
Conditionally Activatable Pyroptosis‐Inducing Agents for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhang Yongkang , Wang Yaming , Zhang Hao , Qi Fan , Li Eryan , Li Changhua
Published: December 2023

Pyroptosis is a recently defined form of immunogenic cell death that shows great promise in cancer immunotherapy. However, almost all small‐molecule pyroptosis‐inducing agents (PyAs) reported to date indiscriminately induce pyroptosis in multiple cell types, leading to off‐target pyroptotic death of normal and immune cells. One promising approach to addressing this biosafety issue is the design of conditionally activatable PyAs that specifically respond to disease biomarkers. Herein, a general solution for facilely tailoring and synthesizing activatable PyAs based on a newly developed class of photoactive PyAs, termed PyPSs, is reported. The unique structurally encoded properties of PyPSs, including endo reticulum targeting, hypoxia tolerance, and sensing properties, excitingly meet a demanding set of performance requirements for constructing conditionally activatable PyAs for cancer immunotherapy. Based on PyPS‐1 scaffold, hypoxia‐activatable PyPS‐NF as a proof‐of‐concept example is prepared, demonstrating specific hypoxia‐activated pyroptotic cell death and favorable immunotherapeutic efficacy of solid tumors. Herein, a general design strategy for tailoring activatable PyAs to precisely control GSDME‐mediated cell pyroptosis is established, with great potential to advance cancer immunotherapy.
Softening Behavior of a Cold Work Tool Steel and High‐Boron Tool Steel Fabricated by Directed Energy Deposition
Authors: Yuan Miwen , Nyborg Lars , Oikonomou Christos , Karamchedu Seshendra , Fan Yicheng , Liu Libin , Cao Yu
Published: December 2023

Prolonging the life of hot stamping dies in the automotive industry is challenging. Surface modification is an effective way to improve the durability of the dies. In this study, two tool steel grades, one cold work tool steel (V4E) and one high‐boron tool steel (HBS), are deposited on a tool steel substrate using directed energy deposition, followed by tempering. Softening behavior at high temperatures of 550 and 600 °C is investigated. In the key findings, it is revealed that both steels exhibit remarkable hardness, surpassing the substrate even after extended exposure to high temperatures. HBS shows excellent softening resistance in terms of hardness at 550 °C but experiences a significant drop at 600 °C. V4E demonstrates an overall superior softening resistance due to its thermal stable MC (M represents metal) carbides and the relatively stable dislocation density. Microstructural analysis highlights some unique features, such as borides in HBS and dendritic structures in V4E. In this study, the correlation between microstructure characteristics and hardness evolution is revealed, providing some insights into how these materials resist softening to enhance the longevity and performance of hot stamping dies.
Alloy Design Optimization of Stainless Steel's Performance and Environmental Impact Through Taguchi‐Based Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Wei Wenjing , Samuelsson Peter B. , Jönsson Pär G.
Published: December 2023

The current work presents an optimization approach for improving stainless steel's performance and environmental impact. A Taguchi‐based grey relational analysis is used to determine the optimal alloy design of six stainless steels (304, 316L, 904L, 2304, 2205, 2507). The alloy design of a multivariable system (C, Mn, Cr, Ni, N, Mo, and Cu) is initially formulated based on the Taguchi orthogonal array. It combines the multiperformances (pitting corrosion resistance, proof strength, tensile strength, and greenhouse gas emissions) to determine a numerical score and suggests the optimal combination of alloy contents. The results are further analyzed using a range analysis to detect the significance of each alloy parameter and its level. The results show that nitrogen plays the most important role in determining the stainless steel's combined performance. Besides, the optimum alloy design consists of a high content of nitrogen, chromium, molybdenum, and copper combined with a low content of nickel. The study has a focus on proposing the systematic approach, Taguchi‐based grey relational analysis, to optimize the stainless steel's different mechanical properties with respect to environmental impact.
Rheology of a Liquid Powder for Continuous Casting: The Critical Aspect in Its Technological Application
Authors: Carli Riccardo , Alloni Marco , Casagrande Simone
Published: December 2023

It is herein considered a new product composed of solid–liquid dispersion of a conveniently formulated continuous casting powder in synthetic oil‐based esters, where hypothetical limit to consider this liquid slurry as a liquid powder is a mix with at least 50% in weight powder load preserving suitable fluidity for effective and stable pumping. After a relatively long and intense industrial application period, one of most critical points when using liquid powder for steel continuous casting proves to be mold feeding. This is mainly because of weird properties of such material which behaves as a non‐Newtonian fluid. A thorough rheological study on samples of liquid powder for continuous casting is carried out. Based on meticulous characterization of a set of laboratory samples, the dispersion flow curve is determined. Most commonly used rheological models are then tested for fitting with the experimental data. Sisko model is identified as the best fitting one. This model is then implemented to derive the system curve describing its behavior under its industrial application conditions. The mathematical process to apply Sisko model and its numerical solutions is explained. The results found are consistent with the field experience of the industrial application of the material under study.
Sticking Behavior of Burdens During Reduction Process in Gas‐Based Shaft Furnaces
Authors: Zhao Zichuan , Tang Jue , Wang Xiaoai , Chu Mansheng , Feng Jinge , Liu Zhenggen , Li Lanjie
Published: December 2023

Gas‐based shaft furnaces (SFs) have garnered considerable attention because of their low CO2 emissions. The sticking behavior of their burden material influences the smooth operation of SFs. In this study, the effects of the reduction degree, temperature, and atmosphere on the sticking behavior of pellets are studied thoroughly under typical reduction conditions. The results demonstrate that the pellets will stick with each other as the reduction degree increases, the main phase of pellets at the maximum sticking index (SI) is iron, and the interconnection between iron whiskers results in the bonding phenomenon of pellets. The pellets exhibit a low SI at a relatively low reduction temperature. As the reduction temperature increases, the pellets stick, which is caused by thermal expansion and the large number of iron whiskers. With an increase in the proportion of H2 in the reducing gas, the iron particles become smaller, and the contact area between the particles decreases, effectively reducing the SI of the pellets. In general, choosing a reasonable reduction temperature and increasing the proportion of H2 in the reducing gas are helpful in controlling pellet sticking.
Review of Testing Methods on the Heat Transfer Characteristics of Mold Slag Film
Authors: Yan Xiaobo , Li Yugang , Zhu Lilong , Wang Qian , Wang Qiangqiang
Published: December 2023

Heat transfer from the solidified shell to the mold, especially in the meniscus region, significantly affects the surface quality of the strand and the stability of the continuous casting process. The mold slag film serves as the sole heat transfer medium between the shell and the mold, and its performance and structure have a substantial impact on the heat transfer efficiency. Thus, since the 1980s, various testing methods are developed to investigate the heat transfer performance of the slag film, including the pouring method, immersion method, parallel plate method, and mold experiment. In this article, the principles, characteristics, and main study results of these methods are reviewed, and the existing issues are highlighted in these methods. Furthermore, specific requirements that shall be satisfied in future research on the heat transfer of slag film are presented. The new approach for testing heat transfer in slag film necessitates ensuring consistency in the heat flux, surface temperature of the shell, interfacial thermal resistance, and thickness and cooling rate of the slag film, aligning with those observed in a mold. This consistency is crucial to ensure the comparable structure and heat transfer characteristic between the experimental and industrial slag films.