bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Submicron aerosols at thirteen diversified sites in China: size distribution, new particle formation and corresponding contribution to cloud condensation nuclei production
Authors: Peng J. F. , Hu M. , Wang Z. B. , Huang X. F. , Kumar P. , Wu Z. J. , Guo S. , Yue D. L. , Shang D. J. , Zheng Z. , He L. Y.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. Understanding the particle number size distributions in diversified atmospheric environments is important in order to design mitigation strategies related to submicron particles and their effects on regional air quality, haze and human health. In this study, we conducted 15 different field measurement campaigns between 2007 and 2011 at 13 individual sites in China, including five urban sites, four regional sites, three coastal/background sites and one ship cruise measurement along eastern coastline of China. Size resolved particles were measured in the 15–600 nm size range. The median particle number concentrations (PNCs) were found to vary in the range of 1.1−2.2 × 104 cm−3 at urban sites, 0.8−1.5 × 104 cm−3 at regional sites, 0.4−0.6 × 104 cm−3 at coastal/background sites, and 0.5 × 104 cm−3 during cruise measurement. Peak diameters at each of these sites varied greatly from 24 to 115 nm. Particles in the 15–25 nm (nucleation mode), 25–100 nm (Aitken mode) and 100–600 nm (accumulation mode) range showed different characteristics at each sites, indicating the features of primary emissions and secondary formation in these diversified atmospheric environments. Diurnal variations show a build-up of accumulation mode particles belt at regional sites, suggesting the contribution of regional secondary aerosol pollution. Frequencies of new particle formation (NPF) events were much higher at urban and regional sites than at coastal sites and during cruise measurement. The average growth rates (GRs) of nucleation mode particles were 8.0–10.9 nm h−1 at urban sites, 7.4–13.6 nm h−1 at regional sites and 2.8–7.5 nm h−1 at coastal sites and during cruise measurement. The high gaseous precursors and strong oxidation at urban and regional sites not only favored the formation of particles, but also accelerated the growth rate of the nucleation mode particles. No significant difference in condensation sink (CS) during NPF days were observed among different site types, suggesting that the NPF events in background areas were more influenced by the pollutant transport. In addition, average contributions of NPF events to potential cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) at 0.2% super-saturation in the afternoon of all sampling days were calculated as 11% and 6% at urban sites and regional sites, respectively. On the other hand, NPF events at coastal sites and during cruise measurement had little impact on potential production of CCN. This study provides a large data set of particle size distribution in diversified atmosphere of China, improving our general understanding of emission, secondary formation, new particle formation and corresponding CCN activity of submicron aerosols in Chinese environments.
Satellite retrieval of aerosol microphysical and optical parameters using neural networks: a new methodology applied to the Sahara desert dust peak
Authors: Taylor M. , Kazadzis S. , Tsekeri A. , Gkikas A. , Amiridis V.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. In order to exploit the full-earth viewing potential of satellite instruments to globally characterise aerosols, new algorithms are required to deduce key microphysical parameters like the particle size distribution and optical parameters associated with scattering and absorption from space remote sensing data. Here, a methodology based on neural networks is developed to retrieve such parameters from satellite inputs and to validate them with ground-based remote sensing data. For key combinations of input variables available from the MODerate resolution Imaging Spectro-radiometer (MODIS) and the Ozone Measuring Instrument (OMI) Level 3 data sets, a grid of 100 feed-forward neural network architectures is produced, each having a different number of neurons and training proportion. The networks are trained with principal components accounting for 98% of the variance of the inputs together with principal components formed from 38 AErosol RObotic NETwork (AERONET) Level 2.0 (Version 2) retrieved parameters as outputs. Daily averaged, co-located and synchronous data drawn from a cluster of AERONET sites centred on the peak of dust extinction in Northern Africa is used for network training and validation, and the optimal network architecture for each input parameter combination is identified with reference to the lowest mean squared error. The trained networks are then fed with unseen data at the coastal dust site Dakar to test their simulation performance. A neural network (NN), trained with co-located and synchronous satellite inputs comprising three aerosol optical depth measurements at 470, 550 and 660 nm, plus the columnar water vapour (from MODIS) and the modelled absorption aerosol optical depth at 500 nm (from OMI), was able to simultaneously retrieve the daily averaged size distribution, the coarse mode volume, the imaginary part of the complex refractive index, and the spectral single scattering albedo – with moderate precision: correlation coefficients in the range 0.368 ≤ R ≤ 0.514. The network failed to recover the spectral behaviour of the real part of the complex refractive index. This new methodological approach appears to offer some potential for moderately accurate daily retrieval of the total volume concentration of the coarse mode of aerosol at the Saharan dust peak in the area of Northern Africa.
The effect of changing sea ice on the physical vulnerability of Arctic coasts
Authors: Barnhart K. R. , Overeem I. , Anderson R. S.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. Sea ice limits the interaction of the land and ocean water in the Arctic winter and influences this interaction in the summer by governing the fetch. In many parts of the Arctic, the open-water season is increasing in duration and summertime sea-ice extents are decreasing. Sea ice provides a first-order control on the physical vulnerability of Arctic coasts to erosion, inundation, and damage to settlements and infrastructures by ocean water. We ask how the changing sea-ice cover has influenced coastal erosion over the satellite record. First, we present a pan-Arctic analysis of satellite-based sea-ice concentration specifically along the Arctic coasts. The median length of the 2012 open-water season, in comparison to 1979, expanded by between 1.5 and 3-fold by Arctic Sea sector, which allows for open water during the stormy Arctic fall. Second, we present a case study of Drew Point, Alaska, a site on the Beaufort Sea, characterized by ice-rich permafrost and rapid coastal-erosion rates, where both the duration of the open-water season and distance to the sea-ice edge, particularly towards the northwest, have increased. At Drew Point, winds from the northwest result in increased water levels at the coast and control the process of submarine notch incision, the rate-limiting step of coastal retreat. When open-water conditions exist, the distance to the sea ice edge exerts control on the water level and wave field through its control on fetch. We find that the extreme values of water-level setup have increased consistently with increasing fetch.
ALO4: Angle Localization and Orientation System with Four Receivers
Authors: Elvira Santiago , de Castro Ángel , Garrido Javier
Published: September 2014

This paper presents a 2D indoor localization and orientation system based on a TDOA (Time Difference of Arrival) technique. It uses an array of receivers (four low-cost ultrasonic resonant devices in a square distribution) to implement low-computational-effort DOA (Direction of Arrival) algorithms, based on assumed plane-wave reception. The system only demands two transmitters at well-known positions on the ceiling of the room for obtaining the node position and orientation when it is deployed on the floor of the room. This system has been tested using a Xilinx Spartan-3A FPGA that implements a 52 MHz MicroBlaze. The experimental results include a total of 1,440 points, obtaining a mean localization error of 5.17 cm and a mean orientation error of 3.34°. For this system, the localization and orientation processes are executed in less than 50 us.
Lesson Planning with the Common Core
Authors: Estes Linda A. , McDuffie Amy Roth , Tate Cathie
Published: September 2014

Research, theory, and the Common Core State Standards apply to lesson planning'a process similar to planning a road trip.
Technology Tips: The Paperless Classroom
Authors: Kumka Antonina
Published: September 2014

The time has come to reflect on how we teachers can change our practices so that they are sustainable with respect to paper consumption. As teachers, we must change our classrooms, our methods, and our attitudes to ensure that students understand from an early age that change is inevitable and important. Implementing a paperless mathematics classroom is a great way to teach students about sustainability, promote independent learning as well as collaboration, and let them experience an effective use of technology.
Delving Deeper: The Babylonian Method for Approximating Square Roots: Why Is It So Efficient?
Authors: Flores Alfinio
Published: September 2014

Mathematicians from the Old Babylonian period (2000–1600 BC) knew a method for using a first approximation to the square root of a number to obtain a second, much better approximation. This article will show that their method is remarkably efficient. We use geometric algebra, much like the Babylonians might have done, to give a visual rationale for the method and its efficiency.
The Math Promise: Celebrating at Home and School
Authors: Legnard Danielle , Austin Susan
Published: September 2014

Build connections and elevate numeracy with a commitment among students, teachers, and parents to hold one another accountable for engaging the subject together beyond the classroom walls.
S’affirmer en tant que Nation
Authors: Morissette Anny
Published: September 2014

Par la Loi sur les Indiens, les sociétés amérindiennes se sont fait imposer un nouvel univers politique par les autorités canadiennes. Elles ont donc dû composer avec le système des conseils de bande en s'adaptant et en réaménageant leurs façons de faire politiques. La tradition diplomatique algonquienne, bien active au XVIIe siècle et encore durant une partie du XVIIIe, s'est-elle aussi transformée? Depuis la vague de mouvement d'affirmation autochtone des années 1970, les relations des conseils de bande ne se limitent plus au gouvernement canadien, aux autres nations autochtones ou aux relations avec des instances non autochtones locales, régionales, provinciales ou pan canadiennes: elles s'étendent désor mais aussi au niveau international. Peut-on maintenant utiliser le mot « diplomatie » dans le contexte des conseils de bande? À l'aide de l'exemple de la communauté algonquine de Kitigan Zibi, l'auteure explore la participation active de cette bande à des rencontres avec les ambassadeurs de divers pays représentés à Ottawa. L'affirmation d'une identité nationale et la reconnaissance politique de la bande sont au coeur de cette démarche entreprise par les Anishnabeg.
Le Travailleur de Worcester et la lutte pour la survivance de la Franco-Américanie, 1931-1950
Authors: Noël Mathieu
Published: September 2014

Fondé en 1931 par Wilfrid Beaulieu, l’hebdomadaire Le Travailleur se présente comme « le défenseur attitré de la religion [catholique] et de la langue [française] » en Nouvelle-Angleterre. Dans cet article, nous avons cherché à déterminer quels étaient les principaux enjeux sociopolitiques abordés par l’équipe du journal, de sa fondation jusqu’en 1950. D’abord, la thèse de la survivance est défendue avec vigueur tout au long des années 1930. Durant la Seconde Guerre mondiale, le principal enjeu devient celui de la libération de la France. Finalement, à partir de 1945, Beaulieu essaie, non sans difficulté, de recentrer son journal sur l’idée de la survivance de la Franco-Américanie.
Analysis of the crystal structure of an active MCM hexamer
Authors: Miller Justin M , Arachea Buenafe T , Epling Leslie B , Enemark Eric J
Published: September 2014

In a previous Research article (Froelich et al., 2014), we suggested an MCM helicase activation mechanism, but were limited in discussing the ATPase domain because it was absent from the crystal structure. Here we present the crystal structure of a nearly full-length MCM hexamer that is helicase-active and thus has all features essential for unwinding DNA. The structure is a chimera of Sulfolobus solfataricus N-terminal domain and Pyrococcus furiosus ATPase domain. We discuss three major findings: 1) a novel conformation for the A-subdomain that could play a role in MCM regulation; 2) interaction of a universally conserved glutamine in the N-terminal Allosteric Communication Loop with the AAA+ domain helix-2-insert (h2i); and 3) a recessed binding pocket for the MCM ssDNA-binding motif influenced by the h2i. We suggest that during helicase activation, the h2i clamps down on the leading strand to facilitate strand retention and regulate ATP hydrolysis.
A Region’s Local Economic Development and Competitiveness Index
Authors: Sarmiento Chona Q. , Salang Ere Lee Q. , Garcia, Jr. Ricardo B. , Suriaga Bernard Q. , Barre Ardel S.
Published: September 2014

The nationwide survey on local economic development and competitiveness index shows the local government unit’s competence in three major dimensions namely; economic dynamism, government efficiency, and infrastructure. It focuses on 30 pre-identified indicators of economic development and competitiveness from the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) reflecting the local government unit’s (LGUs) financial growth and stability, and examines the potential reinforcing factors as well as the hindering factors on business licensing competitiveness. The survey was conducted in Mindanao to gather secondary sources of data from various local government offices, private sectors and regional agencies. The findings revealed that the quality of performance in terms of economic dynamism, efficiency and infrastructure is highly relevant but not excellent. The progressive LGUs have shown responsiveness on efficiency in terms of government policy on service, client demands, consistent with the national policies to improve support on the government economic programs, however, it failed to have an excellent rating. Thus, there are still more lacking areas in promoting tourism support, business and industry promotion, and transparency on entrepreneurship. The scope of economic development and competitiveness provided opportunities on the plurality of factors to describe increase accountability among key local authorities on systematic recording and archiving of financial data.
Type 2 Diabetes and Fracture Risk in Older Women
Authors: Zoulakis Michail , Johansson Lisa , Litsne Henrik , Axelsson Kristian , Lorentzon Mattias
Published: August 2024

Importance

The reasons for the increased fracture risk in type 2 diabetes (T2D) are not fully understood.

Objective

To determine if poorer skeletal characteristics or worse physical function explain the increased fracture risk in T2D.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective observational study is based on the population-based Sahlgrenska University Hospital Prospective Evaluation of Risk of Bone Fractures study cohort of older women, performed in the Gothenburg area between March 2013 and May 2016. Follow-up of incident fracture data was completed in March 2023. Data analysis was performed between June and December 2023.

Exposures

Data were collected from questionnaires and through examination of anthropometrics, physical function, and bone measurements using bone densitometry (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry), and high-resolution peripheral computed tomography. A subsample underwent bone microindentation to assess bone material strength index (BMSi).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Baseline assessment of bone characteristics and physical function and radiograph verified incident fractures.

Results

Of 3008 women aged 75 to 80 years, 294 women with T2D (mean [SD] age, 77.8 [1.7] years) were compared with 2714 women without diabetes (mean [SD] age, 77.8 [1.6] years). Women with T2D had higher bone mineral density (BMD) at all sites (total hip, 4.4% higher; femoral neck (FN), 4.9% higher; and lumbar spine, 5.2% higher) than women without. At the tibia, women with T2D had 7.4% greater cortical area and 1.3% greater density, as well as 8.7% higher trabecular bone volume fraction. There was no difference in BMSi (T2D mean [SD], 78.0 [8.3] vs controls, 78.1 [7.3]). Women with T2D had lower performance on all physical function tests. The study found 9.7% lower grip strength, 9.9% slower gait speed, and 13.9% slower timed up-and-go time than women without diabetes. During a median (IQR) follow-up of 7.3 (4.4-8.4) years, 1071 incident fractures, 853 major osteoporotic fractures (MOF), and 232 hip fractures occurred. In adjusted (for age, body mass index, clinical risk factors, and FN BMD) Cox regression models, T2D was associated with an increased risk of any fracture (HR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.04-1.54) and MOF (HR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.00-1.56).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of older women, T2D was associated with higher BMD, better bone microarchitecture, and no different BMSi but poorer physical function, suggesting that poor physical function is the main reason for the increased fracture risk in T2D women.
Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) is associated with better prognosis and possibly causes a non‐inflamed tumour microenvironment in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Xinyi , Ying Haoxuan , Sun Yujie , Zhang Wenda , Luo Peng , Zhu Shuhan , Zhang Jian
Published: August 2024

Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) score is a reliable indicator of genomic instability. The significance of HRD in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), particularly its influence on prognosis and the immune microenvironment, has yet to be adequately explored. Understanding HRD status comprehensively can offer valuable insights for guiding precision treatment. We utilised three cohorts to investigate HRD status in NPC: the Zhujiang cohort from local collection and the Hong Kong (SRA288429) and Singapore (SRP035573) cohorts from public datasets. The GATK (genome analysis toolkit) best practice process was employed to investigate germline and somatic BRCA1/2 mutations and various bioinformatics tools and algorithms to examine the association between HRD status and clinical molecular characteristics. We found that individuals with a negative HRD status (no‐HRD) exhibited a higher risk of recurrence [hazard ratio (HR), 1.43; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.03–333.76; p = 0.012] in the Zhujiang cohort, whereas, in the Singapore cohort, they experienced a higher risk of mortality (HR, 26.04; 95% CI, 1.43–34.21; p = 0.016) compared with those in the HRD group. In vitro experiments demonstrated that NPC cells with BRCA1 knockdown exhibit heightened sensitivity to chemoradiotherapy. Furthermore, the HRD group showed significantly higher tumour mutational burden and tumour neoantigen burden levels than the no‐HRD group. Immune infiltration analysis indicated that HRD tissues tend to have a non‐inflamed tumour microenvironment. In conclusion, patients with HRD exhibit a comparatively favourable prognosis in NPC, possibly associated with a non‐inflammatory immune microenvironment. These findings have positive implications for treatment stratification, enabling the selection of more precise and effective therapeutic approaches and aiding in the prediction of treatment response and prognosis to a certain extent.
An Enhanced Extend Interface via the π–π Interaction to Achieve the Soluble Light‐Assisted Lithium–Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Wang Yue , Song Li‐Na , Wang Yi‐Feng , Wang Xiao‐Xue , Wu Jia‐Yi , Sun Yu , Xu Ji‐Jing
Published: August 2024

The light‐assisted strategy is considered as an effective way to reduce the overpotential of lithium‐oxygen (Li─O2) batteries, however, the generated solid discharge products are prone to cover active sites of the solid‐state photocatalyst, causing the premature death of the cell. Herein, for the first time, the feasibility of soluble photocatalysts in Li─O2 battery system using Iron (II) Phthalocyanine (FePc) is verified. A micro reaction channel is constructed between the sp2‐carbon cathode and the soluble photocatalyst‐phthalein iron through π–π interaction, which can effectively increase the three‐phase reaction interface, facilitating the rapid separation and the transportation of photogenerated electrons and holes, thus improving the photocatalytic efficiency and the reaction kinetics of Li─O2 battery. Moreover, the FePc soluble photocatalysts induced the dual growth modes of surface growth and solution‐mediated growth pathways for the discharge products lead to an additional discharge capacity in the Li─O2 battery. Accordingly, the battery exhibits a lower overpotential of 0.33 V between discharge and charge plateaus at a current density of 0.01 mA cm−2, displaying the excellent cyclic stability (remaining a round‐trip efficiency of 81.1% after 130 cycles). The novel strategy provides new approaches for the construction of the light‐assisted Li─O2 batteries with reduced overpotential and boosted energy efficiency.
Endogenously Activated and Self‐Reinforced DNA Lipid Nanodevice for Spatial‐Specific and High‐Contrast Imaging of MicroRNA in Cells and Animals
Authors: Li Chan , Jia Haiyan , Zhao Wangxin , Wu Rong , Zhou Xiaoyu , Wei Xiaoling , Xue Guohui , Shen Zhifa , Xue Chang
Published: August 2024

Tumor‐specific microRNA (miRNA) imaging strategies are critical for investigating mechanisms associated with cancer progression; however, nonspecific signal leakage and false‐positive signaling limit their selectivity and efficiency. In this paper, an endogenously activated and self‐reinforced DNA lipid nanodevice (LND) for spatial‐specific and high‐contrast imaging of miRNAs in living cells and animals is presented. The LND is functionalized on cholesterol‐based lipid micelles (CLMs) containing smart response and self‐fueling DNA components that display redox‐activatable and autocatalytic miRNA probing activities, respectively. The LNDs are initially silenced and selectively activated using glutathione, an endogenous microenvironmental factor overexpressed in tumor cells, to prevent nonspecific signal leakage. Subsequently, an autocatalytic DNA circuit is used for tumor‐specific and high‐contrast miRNA imaging. It is demonstrated that robust CLM nanoparticles can be easily assembled from a cholesterol‐conjugated G‐rich DNA sequence by stirring in a buffered solution, enabling the LND to enter cells naturally. In addition, in vitro and in vivo data illustrate that the enhanced biostability of DNA components on the surface of LNDs can be realized for minimizing false‐positive signals, making the system ideal for miRNA imaging in living mice. This smart LND technique has great potential for precise biomedical imaging and clinical diagnosis.
Regenerated Natural Minerals towards Double‐layers Heterojunctions Metal@metal‐sulfides with Remarkable Conductivity for Ultra‐fast Sodium‐ion Storage
Authors: Yuan Shaohui , Li Jiexiang , Xia Wei , Li Zhaopeng , Tian Wenyue , Yang Yue , Ji Xiaobo , Ge Peng
Published: August 2024

Attracted by the high specific capacity and energy density, transition metal‐sulfides exhibit great application potential as sodium‐ion batteries anode, but still suffer from the uncontrolled separation of M/S phase and inferior conductivity. Herein, the flower‐like Fe1‐xS@Sb@C (FF) is rationally tailored, accompanied by double‐layer heterojunctions and C–S–Sb/Sb–S–Fe “bridge” bonds. Meanwhile, the bimetallic phases/boundary defects and built‐in electric fields are formed with a strong electronic coupling effect, effectively alleviating the separation of the M/S phase (Fe/Sb and S), and significantly enhancing ion/e− conductivity. As expected, FF delivers an ultra‐fast sodium‐ions storage rate capacity of 436.5/334.3 mAh g−1 even at 10.0/20.0 A g−1. When the operation temperature is lowered to ‐5 °C, the reversible capacity can still remain at ≈349.7 mAh g−1. Assisted by the detailed kinetic analysis and theoretical calculations, their great ion‐storage abilities mainly derive from improved interfacial Na+/e− transfer and surface/near‐surface redox behaviors. Moreover, the reassembling evolution of active phases is revealed by in/ex situ techniques, further demonstrating the stable adsorption/anchoring of intermediate reaction products Fe/Sb–S phases on the heterointerface, accompanying high reversible conversion‐alloying reaction. Given this, this interesting work is anticipated to offer an in‐depth insight into capacity fading mechanism, and effective strategy to design metal‐sulfur anodes for advanced sodium‐ion systems.
Interface and Electronic Structure Regulation of RuO2 through Ru/RuO2 Heterointerface Construction and Zn Atom‐Doping for High‐Performance Overall Water Splitting in Both Alkaline and Acidic Media
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxia , Su Ziyun , Xiang Dong , Xu Wentao , Guo Qian , Fan Youjun , Kang Xiongwu , Sheng Yongguang , Zheng Fuqin , Chen Wei
Published: August 2024

Rational design and fabrication of efficient catalysts for overall water splitting in an integrated electrolyzer are essential for energy storage and conversion. Herein, an ultra‐small substitutional Zn‐doped Ru/RuO2 heterostructure (5.6 nm) is synthesized through a facile pyrolyzing strategy as an efficient bi‐functional electrocatalyst for water splitting in both acidic and alkaline media. Experiments demonstrate that introducing appropriate alien atoms into RuO2 with an amorphous state can effectively optimize the electron structure and expose abundant defects, and thus increasing the number of active sites and improving the intrinsic activity of RuO2 for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In addition, the high hydrogen adsorption capability of metallic Ru makes Ru‐RuO2 heterointerface suitable for water splitting. Notably, the Ru/ZnRuO2 displays low overpotentials at 10 mA cm−2 with only 184 mV for OER in 0.5 m H2SO4 and 35 mV for HER in 1.0 m KOH. Besides, the as‐synthesized Ru/ZnRuO2 displays cell voltages of 1.540 and 1.567 V (at 10 mA cm−2) for water splitting with remarkable durability for more than 220 and 100 h, respectively, in acidic and alkaline media. This work provides a facile strategy for designing pH‐universal electrocatalysts toward overall water splitting.
Aggregation Regulation of Acceptor via Thiophene‐Substituted Alkyl Chains Enables High‐Performance Toluene‐Processed Organic Solar Cells without Additive and Post‐Treatment
Authors: Jiang Xinyu , Yang Hang , Shen Shumin , Wu Yue , Cui Chaohua , Li Yongfang
Published: August 2024

Due to the mismatched aggregation behavior and limited compatibility between the donor and acceptor, it is a challenge for the active layer of organic solar cells (OSCs) to spontaneously realize well‐developed morphology in nonhalogenated solvents. In this contribution, an aggregation regulation strategy for acceptors with strong aggregation is developed via thiophene‐substituted alkyl chain engineering to fabricate high‐performance nonhalogenated solvent‐processed OSCs without an additive or post‐treatment. With the replacement of alkyl chains with steric conjugated thiophene‐substituted alkyl chains, the resulting acceptor (namely BTP‐2T, BTP‐T, and BTP‐T‐BO) shows reduced aggregation to match the polymer donor D18‐Cl using toluene as a processing solvent, enabling ordered molecular arrangement and uniform phase separation morphology. Especially, the combined modification of the asymmetric thiophene‐substituted inner chain and branched outer side chains for BTP‐T‐BO enables the formation of a superior nanoscale bi‐continuous interpenetrating network along with ordered and compact molecular packing in the D18‐Cl:BTP‐T‐BO blend. As a result, an excellent PCE of 18.05% is achieved in the D18‐Cl:BTP‐T‐BO‐based device using toluene as the processing solvent without any extra treatment, which is the highest value for nonhalogenated solvent‐processed OSCs without any extra treatment.
Nanoscale Drag Reduction Effect Enables Efficient Fog Harvesting
Authors: Ji Yating , Yang Weifeng , Li Xiaoyan , Xue Yunfan , Wang Jie , Chen Yinjie , Xu Bi , Cai Zaisheng
Published: August 2024

Surfaces with macro‐scale hydrophilic/hydrophobic regions (conventional Janus mode) are often considered as prime candidates for fog harvesting. However, the water collection efficiency of such surfaces frequently fails to meet the requirements of practical applications due to the occurrence of surface flooding caused by water droplet pinning. Here, an in situ molecular confined modification strategy is proposed to construct upgraded Janus mode for achieving nanoscale drag reduction effect, thereby improving the fog collection efficiency. Specifically, nanoscale hydrophilic sites are designed to effectively reduce the critical volume size required for water droplets to slide off, thus avoiding the surface flooding. Fibers with upgraded Janus mode (PAN‐TO) realize a water collection rate of 4035 mg cm−2 h−1, markedly exceeding that of most materials with conventional Janus mode. Moreover, the high interface bonding strength between hydrophilic sites and the material surface can withstand the impact of water and sand flushing, ensuring the long‐term usability of the material. The applications of PAN‐TO fibers in irrigation and dyeing are demonstrated. This work shows a nanoscale surface engineering proposal for building a next‐generation fibrous fog harvesting device.
Advancing Superconductivity with Interface Engineering
Authors: Liu Yichen , Meng Qingxiao , Mahmoudi Pezhman , Wang Ziyi , Zhang Ji , Yang Jack , Li Wenxian , Wang Danyang , Li Zhi , Sorrell Charles C. , Li Sean
Published: August 2024

The development of superconducting materials has attracted significant attention not only for their improved performance, such as high transition temperature (TC), but also for the exploration of their underlying physical mechanisms. Recently, considerable efforts have been focused on interfaces of materials, a distinct category capable of inducing superconductivity at non‐superconducting material interfaces or augmenting the TC at the interface between a superconducting material and a non‐superconducting material. Here, two distinct types of interfaces along with their unique characteristics are reviewed: interfacial superconductivity and interface‐enhanced superconductivity, with a focus on the crucial factors and potential mechanisms responsible for enhancing superconducting performance. A series of materials systems is discussed, encompassing both historical developments and recent progress from the perspectives of technical innovations and the exploration of new material classes. The overarching goal is to illuminate pathways toward achieving high TC, expanding the potential of superconducting parameters across interfaces, and propelling superconductivity research toward practical, high‐temperature applications.
Multiple Impacts of the Aluminum Oxide Passivation Layer on the Properties OF Cu(In,Ga)Se2Solar Cells
Authors: Kamikawa Yukiko , Nardone Marco , Shibata Hajime , Nishinaga Jiro , Ishizuka Shogo
Published: August 2024

In this study, the origins of efficiency gains in Cu(In,Ga)Se2(CIGS) solar cells are investigated by introducing an Al2O3passivation layer in terms of the oxidation condition of Mo back contact, alkali‐metal diffusion, minority carrier lifetimes (τ), and charge conditions. The study reveals that introduction of an Al2O3back‐contact passivation layer into solar cells yields multiple impacts. Al2O3deposition enhances the oxidation of the Mo back contacts, increasing Na solubility in Mo and Na diffusion from Mo into the CIGS layer, thereby modifying the metastable properties of CIGS. The charge condition at the CIGS/Al2O3interface is not fixed negative charge but variable, dependent on whether electrons or holes are supplied. During solar cell operation, the interfacial charge condition is expected to be neutral or positive for Al2O3grown using plasma or thermal atomic layer deposition techniques, respectively. Moreover, the mechanical peeling off of CIGS from Mo back contact enhancedτin a similar way as with the insertion of Al2O3. Based on this study, the enhancement of alkali metal supply and the removal of direct contact of CIGS to the metal contact (Mo) can play crucial roles in improving the performance of CIGS solar cell.
Coupling Dynamics and Linear Polarization Phenomena in Codirectional Polariton Waveguide Couplers
Authors: Rozas Elena , Yulin Alexey , Klembt Sebastian , Höfling Sven , Martín María Dolores , Viña Luis
Published: August 2024

In this work, the previous studies investigating the potential of integrated devices using polariton waveguides that form codirectional couplers is extended. For suitable coupler parameters, a transfer of condensates between the arms of the coupler occurs leading to the observation of previously predicted Josephson‐like oscillations. The ability to tune the periodicity of these oscillations opens the way to the design of polaritonic circuits in which the directionality of the signal towards the output terminals can be controlled, for a fixed separation between the arms, varying the coupling length. The response of the devices to linearly polarized excitation is also investigated, delving into the dynamics of linear polarization at the output terminals of long couplers, providing valuable insights into their potential applications, including polariton switches and logic gates with efficient operation. The results are supported by numerical simulations based on the generalized Gross–Pitaevskii equation describing the dynamics of coherent polaritons in spatially non‐uniform systems, reproducing the polariton distribution on the output terminals and an oscillatory dependence of the corresponding emission as a function of the polarization azimuth. How the coupling and the controllable polarization degree of freedom in polariton couplers opens avenues for innovative optical architectures and functionalities is shown here.
Unveiling the Influence of Line Shape of Surface Plasmon Resonances on Exciton–Plasmon Strong Coupling
Authors: Wei Yueyue , Zeng Ning , Yang Yao , Zhong Jin‐Hui , Liu Bowen
Published: August 2024

Strong coupling between surface plasmon resonance (SPR) modes and excitons holds great potential for many chemical and physical applications. However, a clear understanding on how far‐field spectral characteristics of SPR (linewidths and intensity) affect the coupling strength remains unclear because these parameters are difficult to be individually tuned. These spectral characteristics are associated with the damping rate and field enhancement that depend on the morphology of the plasmonic nanostructure. In this work, the influence of the SPR line shape on exciton‐plasmon coupling is systematically investigated by delicately tuning the linewidths and resonance intensities of the plasmonic arrays. It is found that the SPR modes with narrow linewidths or large intensity are favorable for the exciton–plasmon system to achieve strong coupling. The obtained clear relationships between the SPR line shape and coupling strength provide guidance for the design and optimization of exciton‐plasmon coupling systems, favoring the highly efficient manipulation of exciton polaritons and enabling specific applications driven by strong coupling.
Recent Advances and Prospects in Manganese‐Catalyzed C−H Activation
Authors: Anusree Gopan , Devi P. S. , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: August 2024

C−H activation represents an interesting alternative to conventional cross‐coupling methods, avoiding the requirement of additional steps to introduce activating groups. Generally, Pd‐catalyzed reactions have been extensively employed for C−H activation. The high cost and limited availability of resources of Pd have prompted us to explore alternative transition metals. In this context, researchers are turning to Earth Abundant Metals (EAMs) like manganese and iron for their potential in C−H activation. Significant progress has been made in manganese‐catalysed C−H activation in recent years, showcasing excellent specificity, environmental compatibility, and versatility across different substrates. This review summarises approximately 50 recent publications highlighting significant advancements in this field from 2020 to 2023.
PLGA Nanoparticles Coated with Activated Dendritic Cell Membrane Can Prolong Protein Expression and Improve the Efficacy of mRNA
Authors: Xu Minghao , Zhu Ao , Pan Yunzhi , Suleman Zainab , Cheng Junping , Liu Mi
Published: August 2024

In future, mRNA drugs likely play crucial roles in vaccines and protein replacement therapy etc. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are the only formulation approved for mRNA delivery. However, in cancer vaccine, the mRNA encapsulated in LNP can only encode limited (20–40) tumor antigens. Due to highly heterogeneous of tumor cells and tumor antigens, including more diverse antigens could improve the efficacy of cancer vaccines. Including both strong immunogenic antigens and more diverse antigens could maximize the efficacy of cancer vaccines. Herein, poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles and activated dendritic cell membrane were designed as mRNA delivery platforms, which possess merits such as prolonged protein expression, lyophilized formulation, and greater efficacy etc. Dendritic cells were activated with particles loading whole tumor antigens which can activate broad range antigen‐specific T cells. The sustained release of mRNA in PLGA nanoparticles can significantly prolong protein expression in APCs, and lyophilization improved the stability of mRNA formulation. Compared with LNPs, these nanovaccines significantly improved the therapeutic efficacy of mRNA. In addition, tumor antigen‐specific T cells in mice treated with nanovaccines was significantly greater than that treated with LNPs. Overall, a new platform for delivering mRNA was demonstrated, that can prolong protein expression and have better efficacy.
Metallacyclobutadienes: Intramolecular Rearrangement from Kinetic to Thermodynamic Isomers
Authors: Cai Yuanting , Hua Yuhui , Lu Zhengyu , Chen Jiangxi , Chen Dafa , Xia Haiping
Published: August 2024

Metallacyclobutadienes (MCBDs) are key intermediates of alkyne metathesis reactions. There are in principle two isomerization pathway from kinetic to thermodynamic MCBDs, intermolecular and intramolecular. However, systems that simultaneously isolate two kinds of MCBD isomers have not been achieved, thus restricting the mechanistic studies of the isomerization. Here the reactivity of a metallapentalyne that contains an M≡C bond within the aromatic ring, with alkynes to afford a series of MCBD‐fused metallapentalenes is studied. In some cases, both kinetic and thermodynamic products are isolated in the same system, which has never been observed in previous MCBD reactions. Furthermore, the isomerization of MCBD‐fused metallapentalenes is investigated both experimentally and theoretically, indicating that it is an intramolecular process involving a metallatetrahedrane (MTd) intermediate. This research provides experimental evidence demonstrating that one MCBD can undergo intramolecular rearrangement to transform into another.
Modulating Buried Interface to Achieve an Ultra‐High Open Circuit Voltage in Triple Cation Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Huang Junyi , Zhang Zhiguo , Zhu Yanbin , Yu Haixuan , Li Xiongjie , Liu Zhirong , Kazim Samrana , Hu Yong , Yang Wanpeng , Ma Xiaoting , Dai Letian , Ahmad Shahzada , Shen Yan , Wang Mingkui
Published: August 2024

This work proposes a methodology to increase the open‐circuit voltage of perovskite solar cells via modulating the buried interface using π‐conjugated molecules, featuring a push‐pull electronic structure configuration. In the planar perovskite solar cells using tin oxide nanocrystal as an electron transport layer, the 2‐methyl‐1‐aminobenzene derivatives with 4‐(Heptafluoropropan)‐2‐methylaniline notable not only reduce the interfacial energy barrier but also passivate the defects at the buried interface. This modulation enhances the open circuit voltage of Cs0.05(FA0.85MA0.15)0.95Pb(I0.85Br0.15)3 (bandgap ≈1.60 eV) perovskite solar cell to a high value of 1.241 V and thus the power conversion efficiency to 24.16% under standard testing condition. An even higher efficiency of 25.11% can be achieved when employing in the Cs0.05MA0.05FA0.9PbI3 (bandgap ≈1.54 eV) perovskite solar cell. The open circuit voltage (1.241 V) is among the highest in triple‐cation perovskite solar cells which reaches 95% Shockley–Queisser limit. A solar‐to‐CO conversion efficiency of 11.76% can be achieved in the fabricated perovskite solar minimodule driven carbon dioxide electrolyzer. This demonstrates the potential of utilizing perovskite solar cells for CO2 conversion as a clean and green energy environment.
Enhanced In‐Plane Omnidirectional Energy Harvesting from Extremely Weak Magnetic Fields via Fourfold Symmetric Magneto‐Mechano‐Electric Coupling
Authors: Yu Yuelong , Cheng Zhi , Chang Jianglei , Mai Zifeng , Wang Bing , Zhu Ronglei , Sun Muhua , Dong Shuxiang , Ci Penghong
Published: August 2024

Magneto‐mechano‐electric (MME) energy harvesters (EHs) have emerged as a promising solution for powering Internet of Things (IoT) sensor networks by capturing ambient stray magnetic fields in urban circumstance. Despite significant advancements, achieving milliwatt‐level power generation from extremely weak (<1 Oe) and randomly oriented magnetic fields remains challenging. Drawing inspiration from the configuration of cross‐shaped spider legs, this study introduces an innovative X‐shaped MME‐EH featuring fourfold symmetric architecture with symmetrically distributed magnets at each end, enabling near‐isotropic in‐plane omnidirectional energy harvesting. Under extremely weak magnetic fields 0.75 and 0.3 Oe at 60 Hz, the device achieves a record‐high output power of 7.31 and 1.67 mWRMS, respectively, representing a 362% improvement in normalized power over the state‐of‐the‐art results. The theoretical model attributes these gains to the synergistic enhancement effect of the second bending mode and the dual‐mode structure, collectively improving both magnetomechanical and electromechanical coupling by augmenting the magnetic moments and suppressing the clamp loss. The device further demonstrates robust real‐world applications, efficiently powering a wireless IoT sensor system by harvesting multidirectional magnetic field energy from household appliances. This work opens new avenues for developing efficient multimodal MME‐EHs capable of harnessing omnidirectional, weak magnetic fields for widespread IoT applications.
2025 update on clinical trials in immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Al‐Samkari Hanny
Published: August 2024

Although the development and regulatory approval of the thrombopoietin receptor agonists revolutionized aspects of the immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) treatment landscape over the past two decades, there remain many areas of high unmet need. Therefore, a number of investigational and repurposed agents are currently undergoing clinical development in ITP. In a departure from historical trials, which largely focused on the indefinite treatment of persistent or chronic ITP, ongoing trials run the gamut of disease phases, and include novel agents being evaluated in early phases of the disease to attempt to modify the disease course. Many agents in development target disease pathophysiologic mechanisms not previously targeted by agents in current use, including platelet autoantibody recycling, B‐cell maturation and differentiation, long‐lived plasma cells, and the complement system, among others. These agents represent promising treatment options for patients with otherwise refractory disease or who are intolerant of currently available therapies. Additionally, with our increasing understanding of the diverse immune mechanisms at play in ITP, the expansion of the therapeutic armamentarium to include agents targeting diverse pathophysiologic mechanisms may allow a more personalized therapeutic selection in the future. This manuscript provides an up‐to‐date, in‐depth overview of recently completed and ongoing clinical trials in ITP.
The language of belonging: The role of symbolic language in shaping social identity and public perceptions of police gender targets
Authors: Davenport‐Klunder Katelyn , Hine Kelly , Fleet Robert
Published: August 2024

Gender‐targeted recruitment in policing has elicited varied public responses. This study explores public sentiment toward policing gender targets using a symbolic interactionist and social identity approach. A sentiment analysis was conducted on 5447 comments extracted from a Facebook recruitment campaign targeting women. The study revealed a nearly equal distribution of positive and negative language in the comments, with high levels of trust and fear, and notable expressions of anger and sadness. Positive sentiments utilised terms like “equality” and “merit” indicating support for gender targets as a means to promote gender equality and career opportunities for women. Conversely, negative sentiments centred on discrimination. Findings underscore how individuals construct meaning around gender and interpret gender‐target initiatives in policing through the sentiments expressed in online interactions. This research contributes to a nuanced understanding of public discourse surrounding gender targets, highlighting the importance of tailored recruitment and educational campaigns to promote inclusivity and effective gender‐targeted initiatives.
Hydrogenolysis of Haloboranes: from Synthesis of Hydroboranes to Formal Hydroboration Reactions
Authors: Zwart Guilhem , Mifleur Alexis , Durin Gabriel , Nicolas Emmanuel , Cantat Thibault
Published: August 2024

Hydroboranes are versatile reagents in synthetic chemistry, but their synthesis relies on energy‐intensive processes. Herein, we report a new method for the preparation of hydroboranes from hydrogen and the corresponding haloboranes. Triethylamine (NEt3) form with dialkylchloroboranes a Frustrated Lewis Pair (FLP) able to split H2 and afford the desired hydroborane with ammonium salts. Unreactive haloboranes were unlocked using a catalytic amount of Cy2BCl, enabling the synthesis of commonly used hydroboranes such as pinacolborane or catecholborane. The mechanisms of these reactions have been examined by DFT studies, highlighting the importance of the base selection. Finally, the system‘s robustness has been evaluated in one‐pot B−Cl hydrogenolysis/hydroboration reactions of C=C unsaturated bonds.
Recent Advances on Catalytic Atroposelective Synthesis of Planar‐Chiral Macrocycles
Authors: Yang Gongming , Wang Jian
Published: August 2024

Planar‐chiral skeletons widely exist in natural products, bioactive compounds, and other functional molecules. Although significant progress has been made in the field of asymmetric synthesis of centrally or axially chiral molecules over the past years, enantioselective constructing of planar chirality is still a big obstacle and numerous efforts have been made in this field. Previous works have mainly focused on the assembly of planar‐chiral [2,2]‐paracyclophanes and metallocenes. This Minireview describes recent advancements in asymmetric catalytic synthesis of planar‐chiral macrocycles, including ansa chain construction, plane formation and asymmetric transformation strategies. It is anticipated that this Minireview will sever as a source of inspiration for developing new unconventional procedures for access to planar‐chiral skeletons.