bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PC‐Derived SEI Film to Stabilize Graphite|Electrolyte Interface in Sulfone‐Based Electrolyte for Advanced Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yan Xinan , Chen Kean , Chen Hui , Chen Zhongxue , Ai Xinping , Cao Yuliang
Published: February 2025

Solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) plays a crucial role in stabilizing the anode‐electrolyte interface of lithium‐ion batteries. To date, extensive efforts are dedicated to the regulation of the SEI's compositions, instead the dissolution of the SEI in the electrolyte, an important factor that significantly influences the interfacial stability, received less attention. In this work, it is discovered for the first time that the dissolution of propylene carbonate (PC)‐derived SEI can be restrained by employing tetramethylene sulfone (TMS) as the main solvent, thereby markedly enhancing the interfacial stability of Li||graphite half‐cell and high‐voltage graphite||LiCoO2 full cell. Undoubtedly, this work provides a new electrolyte design principle for developing many solvents that are previously considered detrimental in batteries to establish robust interfaces by minimizing the solubility of SEI.
Configuration Design and Interface Reconstruction to Realize the Superior High‐Rate Performance for Sodium Layered Oxide Cathodes
Authors: Zhang Jiandong , Yu Zhaoshi , Zhu Yanbin , Cai Jingyao , Wang Muqin , Gao Pengkun , Zhang Yali , Zhang Naiqing , Wang Deyu , Shen Yan , Wang Mingkui
Published: February 2025

Charge transfer at the electrode/electrolyte interface and mass transfer within the electrode are the two main factors affecting the high‐rate performance of O3‐type layered oxide cathodes for sodium‐ion batteries. Here a multidimensional lanthurization strategy is proposed to construct the surface LaCrO3 heterostructure and create a Cr─O─La configuration for O3‐type NaCrO2. The electrified heterogeneous LaCrO3 induces a built‐in electric field to accelerate charge transfer at the interface. Meanwhile, the Cr─O─La configuration in the transition metal layer leads to local charge aggregation, weakens the interaction force between Na─O, and reduces the Na+ migration barrier. This strategy significantly improves the electrochemical reaction kinetics and the structural reversibility of the layered oxide cathode. As a result, the designed stoichiometric ratio Na0.94Cr0.98La0.02O2 electrode exhibits remarkable rate performance (101.8 mAh g−1 at 40 C) as well as outstanding cycling stability (83.1% capacity retention at 20 C for 2000 cycles) in a half‐cell, along with a competitive full battery performance (89.3% after 500 cycles at 2 C). This study provides a promising route to achieve capacity presentation and retention of layered oxide cathode materials at high‐rate.
Antiphase alternating‐pulse fluidized bed for improving the fluidization quality: An Eulerian–Eulerian study
Authors: Zhang Lingjie , Du Jiali , Wu Feng , Wang Junwu , Ma Xiaoxun
Published: February 2025

To address poor radial mixing in conventional pulsed fluidized beds (PFB), a novel antiphase alternating‐pulse fluidized bed (AAPFB) is proposed to improve the fluidization quality by combining a well‐designed air distributor and a non‐steady‐state gas intake technique. Detailed analysis of flow field differences among uniform flow fluidized bed (UFB), PFB, and AAPFB was conducted through numerical simulations, with a particular focus on examining variations in dispersion coefficients, elucidating the mechanism of the regulation of the flow fields by antiphase alternating pulsed airflow. The study also explored the modulation of inlet waveform, pulse frequency and vibration amplitude on flow characteristics. Results indicated that (i) AAPFB achieves uniform particle disturbance, significantly enhancing gas and particle dispersion; (ii) Rectangular flow improves particle distribution more than sinusoidal and triangular flows; and (iii) A 1 Hz pulse frequency and 0.3um amplitude optimally balances flow disturbances and bubble dynamics, resulting in superior dispersion for gas and particles.
Highly efficient propyne semihydrogenation over tin‐modified Co‐based intermetallic catalyst
Authors: Bian Ziqi , Chen Minhao , Ge Xiaohu , Zhu Ningchao , Cao Yueqiang , Jiang Hao , Zhang Jing , Qian Gang , Zhou Xinggui , Duan Xuezhi
Published: February 2025

Designing and fabricating uniformly dispersed non‐precious metal active sites with tuned geometric configurations and local coordination environments for the selective conversion of functional groups to desired products is of great importance but remains challenging in industrial catalytic processes. In this work, we propose a straightforward method for synthesizing the Co3Sn2 intermetallic catalyst through the structural conversion of layered double hydroxide precursors, thereby constructing suitable Sn‐modified Co active sites and an optimized catalytic environment for propyne semihydrogenation. Characterizations using x‐ray diffraction, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, and x‐ray absorption spectroscopy characterizations are combined to identify the formation of P63/mmc Co3Sn2 intermetallic phase. Catalytic performance tests show that the Co3Sn2 catalyst achieves 95.0% propylene selectivity with nearly complete propyne conversion. Temperature‐programmed surface reaction and desorption measurements combined with theoretical calculations demonstrate that the good selectivity is driven by the facile desorption of propylene from Sn‐modified Co sites rather than its further hydrogenation.
Engineering homointerface‐mediated mixed matrix membrane for propylene/propane separation
Authors: Niu Xinpu , Liu Zongkai , Zhao Haofan , Wang Jing , Dong Guanying , Zhang Yatao
Published: February 2025

Achieving seamless integration between polymer‐filler remains a significant challenge in gas separation mixed matrix membranes (MMMs), particularly with glassy polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs). Here, we report a homointerface strategy for fabricating high‐performance MMMs by the modulated synthesis of zeolitic imidazolate framework ZIF‐8 fillers with amidoxime‐modified polymer of intrinsic microporosity (AOPIM‐1) oligomers, followed by being encapsulated within the long‐chain AOPIM‐1 polymer matrix. These AOPIM‐1 oligomers serve a dual role: precisely modulating the crystal growth of ZIF‐8 and establishing intimate homointerfaces between polymer‐filler due to their intervening linker function. This strategy ensures excellent filler dispersion while preserving their interconnected network structure within MMMs, offering abundant percolating nanochannels. The resulting MMMs exhibited remarkably enhanced C3H6/C3H8 separation performance, with optimal combinations of C3H6 permeability (184.5–267.6 Barrer) and C3H6/C3H8 selectivity (23.9–28.9) outperforming state‐of‐the‐art metal–organic frameworks (MOF)‐based MMMs. This strategy presents an alternative strategy for the design of efficient MOFs/PIMs MMMs in the separation of challenging gas mixtures.
Treatment of Bleeding Episodes With Efanesoctocog Alfa in Previously Treated Patients With Severe Hemophilia A in the Phase 3 XTEND‐1 Study
Authors: Weyand Angela C. , Meunier Sandrine , Suzuki Nobuaki , Bystrická Linda , Neill Graham , Abad‐Franch Lydia , Willemze Annemieke , Tosetto Alberto
Published: February 2025

Despite therapeutic advances, people with hemophilia experience bleeds. These may be life‐threatening, result in permanent joint damage, chronic pain, difficulties with mobility/daily activities, and impact quality of life. In the XTEND‐1 study (NCT04161495), once‐weekly efanesoctocog alfa (50 IU/kg) prophylaxis provided highly effective bleed prevention and high‐sustained factor levels for most of the week and was well‐tolerated. We report post hoc analysis of bleeding episodes and their treatment in previously treated patients (≥ 12 years old). Participants received 50 IU/kg efanesoctocog alfa either as once‐weekly prophylaxis (Arm A) or on‐demand followed by once‐weekly prophylaxis (Arm B) in XTEND‐1. Endpoints included treatment of bleeding episodes and response to treatment. During XTEND‐1, 422 bleeding episodes were reported among 159 participants; 362 were treated. Most treated bleeding episodes (74%; n = 268) occurred during the Arm B on‐demand period, of which 197 (74%) were spontaneous. Seventy‐five participants had no bleeding episodes in Arm A; all in Arm B had ≥ 1 bleeding episode while on‐demand. Most participants (n = 107, 81%) had zero treated spontaneous bleeding episodes and rates of treated bleeding episodes in Arm A (prophylaxis) were low (median [interquartile range] overall ABR: 0.00 [0.00–1.04]). A single injection was sufficient to resolve 97% (350/362) of treated bleeding episodes, no bleeding episodes required > 3 injections, and responses to 95% of evaluable injections were rated excellent/good. Median total dose was 50.9 IU/kg per bleeding episode. Results of this analysis further demonstrated that once‐weekly efanesoctocog alfa provides highly effective bleed protection and treatment of bleeding episodes in participants with severe hemophilia A.

Trial Registration: NCT04161495
Mitochondrial DNA or Genomic DNA Variant(s): Utility of Exhaustive Sequencing in Leigh Syndrome
Authors: Gaignard Pauline , Becker Pierre‐Hadrien , Dessein Anne‐Frederique , Lebigot Elise , Slama Abdelhamid , Mention Karine , Ghoumid Jamal
Published: February 2025

Pathogenic variants in the nuclear gene NDUFAF8 are a rare cause of mitochondrial complex I deficiency with only three cases described to date. We report here a new case of NDUFAF8 deficiency confirming the phenotype of NDUFAF8‐induced complex I biochemical defect, Leigh syndrome and premature death. As a mitochondrial DNA variant in a gene encoding a complex I subunit was also identified in this patient, we discuss the molecular heterogeneity of Leigh syndrome and the need to explore the mitochondrial and nuclear genome to ensure a reliable diagnosis.
Burosumab Treatment in a Girl With Cutaneous Skeletal Hypophosphatemia Syndrome: 2‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: del Pino Mariana , Viterbo Gisela , Valentini María Agustina , Salvatierra Roberto , Belleri Florencia , La Forgia Pablo , Abbate Silvina , Chinton Josefina , Lazzati Juan Manuel , Maderna Osmar , Cervini Andrea Bettina , Fano Virginia
Published: February 2025

Cutaneous skeletal hypophosphatemia syndrome (CSHS) is a mosaic RASopathy caused by postzygotic, activating pathogenic variants in HRAS, NRAS, or KRAS. It is characterized by congenital epidermal, melanocytic, or sebaceous nevi, elevated FGF23 levels that cause renal phosphate wasting and rickets, and focal bone lesions. We report a 13‐year‐old girl with CSHS from Argentina. At 15 days old, she was presented with an extensive epidermal nevus (pigmento‐keratotic phacomatosis). She developed valgus deformity of the right lower limb at the age of 2 years. X‐rays showed extended skeletal involvement, poorly defined corticomedullary junctions, and lytic lesions located in the affected skin area. All the metaphyses showed rickets. Lab tests showed persistently low phosphatemia 2.1 mg/dL (NV: 3.8–6.2), with hyperphosphaturia and elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) 661 IU/L (NV < 300). The patient received treatment with oral phosphate salts and calcitriol, resulting in a favorable metabolic control until she was 6 years old. At that time, she developed central precocious puberty and presented severe clinical compromise, with asthenia, chronic pain, weakness, reduced functional capacity, and loss of independent walking. Sanger sequencing test of the main hotspots of HRAS, NRAS, and KRAS was performed. A previously reported somatic variant, c.37G>C (p.Gly13Arg) in HRAS, was detected in the DNA isolated from the affected skin tissue. Due to clinical, radiological, and biochemical worsening, with a decrease in phosphatemia (1.4 mg/dL) and an increase in ALP (2117 IU/L), the patient was initiated on burosumab at the age of 11 years. After 3 months, she reported improvement in her physical abilities. The x‐ray findings showed progressive healing of rickets in the long bones: ulna, radius, femur, tibia, and fibula. Phosphatemia and tubular reabsorption of phosphate increased gradually with the up‐titration of burosumab dose to 2 mg/kg. However, the patient developed hypercalciuria 6–12 mg/kg/day (NV ≤ 4), with calcemia 9.6–10.8 mg/dL (NV 8.9–10.5) and normal parathormone (PTH) 26–53 pg/mL (NV: 12–95), and the dose of burosumab had to be reduced to 1.6 mg/kg every 2 weeks. We report a girl with CSHS confirmed by somatic HRAS pathogenic variant. Conventional treatment was replaced by burosumab, with healing of bone rickets, and a clear improvement in mineral homeostasis and physical functioning after 2 years of treatment.
A Macaque Model for the Effects of Hybridization on Body Size
Authors: Buck Laura T. , Katz David C. , Ackermann Rebecca Rogers , Hlusko Leslea J. , Kanthaswamy Sree , Weaver Timothy D.
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Genomics research has uncovered recurrent hybridization between hominin species, yet its morphological impact remains understudied. Non‐human primate research has suggested a morphological signature of hybrid ancestry, which could be used to identify hybrids in the hominin fossil record. This pattern may include extreme size, heightened variation, and markers of developmental instability, but factors affecting these characteristics are poorly understood. Studies of non‐mammalian taxa suggest that extreme morphology is more likely in early‐generation hybrids and with a greater parental distance. To understand hybridization in hominins, therefore, we must use appropriate proxy taxa.

Materials and Methods

Here, we use Chinese × Indian Macaca mulatta hybrids with a comparable divergence time in generations to Homo sapiens/Neanderthals and wide variation in admixture. Measuring limb lengths, body length, and weight, we investigate the relationship between admixture and size/variation.

Results

Compared to previous work with more phylogenetically distant primate taxa and a focus on early generation hybrids, we found no evidence of a relationship between admixture and extreme large size, nor with increased size variation. Hybrids in our sample are relatively small but within the range of variation of the smaller parental taxon.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that hybridization between closely related taxa, such as Neanderthals and H. sapiens, may lead to more subtle morphological patterns than previously anticipated. It will be necessary, however, to better understand the factors governing primate hybrid morphology before we can produce robust inferences on how hybridization has affected hominin evolution.
The Ontogeny of the Human Calcaneus: Insights From Morphological and Trabecular Changes During Postnatal Growth
Authors: Figus Carla , Carlson Kristian J. , Bortolini Eugenio , Saers Jaap , Seghi Francesca , Sorrentino Rita , Bernardini Federico , Vazzana Antonino , Erjavec Igor , Novak Mario , Tuniz Claudio , Belcastro Maria Giovanna , Stock Jay , Ryan Timothy M. , Benazzi Stefano
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To investigate the developmental changes in the human calcaneal internal and external morphology linked to the acquisition of mature bipedal locomotion.

Methods

Seventy seven micro‐CT scans of modern juvenile calcanei (from perinates to 15 years old) are employed. The chronological period spans from the Middle/Late Neolithic (4800–4500 BCE) to the 20th century. Through a comprehensive approach that comprises geometric morphometric methods and whole‐bone trabecular analysis, the calcaneal growing morphology has been explored.

Results

Morphological changes reflect the development of bipedal locomotion, showing its potential when tracking the major locomotor milestones. The calcaneal shape is immature and almost featureless during the first year of life. The internal architecture is dense and isotropic with numerous thin trabeculae closely packed together. The internal architecture changes to better adapt to variations in load stimulated by a more mature gait by increasing bone mass and alignment, with fewer and thicker struts. The external morphology shows its plasticity by increasing the surface area where greater strain is expected and changing the orientation of the articular facets.

Conclusions

Analysis of morphological changes in the growing calcaneus highlights the importance of an integrative methodology when exploring developmental bone plasticity. The changes in calcaneal internal and external morphologies reflect the different loading patterns experienced during growth, gradually shifting from a more generalized morphology to a more adult‐like one, reflecting major locomotor achievement. Our research shows that although initially genetically driven, calcaneal plasticity may display mechanical influences and provide precious information on tracking the main locomotor milestones.
Effects of Qingyangshen glycosides on neuroplasticity in a mouse model of social defeat
Authors: Wang Jingru , Chen Weishi , Zhu Qiang , Liu Yao , Kang Zheng , Liu Dingding , Zeng Guirong
Published: February 2025

Background

Qingyangshen (Cynanchum otophyllum C.K. Schneid) is a folk drug for treating depression and other mental disorders induced by social defeat stress. Neuroplasticity in the hippocampus is essential for the modulation of cognition and emotion, and its impairment may contribute to the development and progression of depression. Our previous studies have found that Qingyangshen glycosides (QYS) can improve depression‐like behavior in social failure mouse models, mainly through PGC‐1α/FNDC5/BDNF signaling pathways activation, but its effects and mechanisms on hippocampal neuroplasticity remain unknown.

Methods

Chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) was used to induce social defeat in mice. Morphological changes in the hippocampus were observed by H&E staining and Golgi staining. Immunofluorescence double staining was used to detect the expression of synaptophysin (SYN) and postsynaptic density protein‐95 (PSD‐95), while western blot was employed to evaluate PSD‐95, SYN, and doublecortin (DCX) proteins. The pathological processing of social defeat and the therapeutic effects of QYS on it was confirmed through behavioral assessment associated with morphologic observation.

Results

During the whole study, the sucrose preference indices and OFT activity time of CSDS mice were significantly decreased (p ≤ 0.05), and the tail suspension immobility time was significantly increased (p ≤ 0.05), suggesting that the mice had significant depressive symptoms. Treatment with QYS (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) significantly alleviated depressive symptoms in CSDS mice, which was demonstrated by significantly (p ≤ 0.05 or p ≤ 0.01) reducing the duration of tail‐hanging immobility and increasing the tendency of sucrose preference indices and OFT activity time. QYS treatment also significantly increased the expression of DCX, PSD‐95, and SYN proteins, which play a crucial role in depression.

Conclusions

QYS alleviated these symptoms by enhancing hippocampal neuroplasticity through upregulating the expression of synapse‐associated proteins (SAPs). The therapeutic mechanism of QYS may involve modulating the neuroplasticity of hippocampus neurons by altering the expression of SAPs.
Tailoring One‐dimensional Assemblies of Chiral Bowl‐Shaped Molecules with Diverse Enantiomers and Polar Column Alignments
Authors: Miyajima Daigo , He Dan , Dhara Barun , Zhang Cheng , Nihonyanagi Atsuko , Inuzuka Hiroyuki , Hara Eiju , Sato Shunsuke , Adachi Kiyohiro , Watanabe Go , Hashizume Daisuke , Okuro Kou
Published: February 2025

Symmetry is an important factor in material design. Generally, it is difficult to quantitively discuss symmetry‐property relations. Two materials only with symmetry differences are requisite to verify whether polar or nonpolar chiral systems are advantageous for a specific property/phenomenon, such as chirality‐induced spin selectivity. However, it is difficult to selectively prepare materials having different symmetries without changing other physical properties. The current study successfully prepared seven exceptionally similar crystals with different symmetries in terms of polarity, chirality, and enantiomer alignments, which affords ideal materials for the abovementioned studies. Furthermore, we revealed a universal guiding principle on the self‐assembly pattern of bowl‐shaped molecules to predict the resultant assembled structures with the help of molecular dynamics simulations.
Polar Three‐dimensional Organic‐inorganic Hybrid Perovskite Realize Highly Sensitive Self‐driven Ultraviolet Photodetection
Authors: Li Hang , Wang Zicong , Guan Qianwen , Ji Chengmin , Li Ruiqing , Ye Huang , Wu Zhenyue , Zhang Chengshu , Luo Junhua
Published: February 2025

Bulk photovoltaic effect (BPVE) triggered by spontaneous polarization in polar organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskites (OIHPs) has brought unprecedented development opportunities for self‐powered ultraviolet photodetection. However, the currently reported ultraviolet optoelectronic devices are dominated by low‐dimensional hybrid perovskites, in which low carrier mobility limits the photoelectric conversion efficiency. Herein, we report for the first time a polar three‐dimensional OIHPs, namely MHyPbBr3 (1, MHy = methylhydrazine), that achieves high‐performance self‐driven ultraviolet photodetection. Benefitting from the large spontaneous polarization and excellent semiconductor attributes, 1 exhibits 0.33 V BPVE and high carrier mobility lifetime product (µτ) of 1.972 Í 10‐3 cm‐2 V‐1 under ultraviolet illumination. Notably, such merits contribute to efficient self‐driven photodetection, where responsivity (R) and detectivity (D*) reach up to 198 mA W‐1 and 1.42 Í 1013 Jones, surpassing most reported ultraviolet photodetectors. Furthermore, based on the reversible phase transition of 1, we have achieved controllable ultraviolet photoelectric detection. This work will shed light on the fabrication of high‐response self‐driven ultraviolet optoelectronic devices.
Binding‐site purification of actives (B‐SPA) enables efficient large‐scale progression of fragment hits by combining multi‐step array synthesis with HT crystallography
Authors: Grosjean Harold , Aimon Anthony , Hassell-Hart Storm , Thompson Warren , Koekemoer Lizbé , Bennett James , Bradley Anthony , Anderson Cameron , Wild Conor , Bradshaw William J , FitzGerald Edward A. , Krojer Tobias , Fedorov Oleg , Biggin Philip C. , Spencer John , von Delft Frank
Published: February 2025

Fragment approaches are long‐established in target‐based ligand discovery yet their full transformative potential lies dormant, because progressing hits to potency remains underserved by methodological work. The only credible progression paradigm is multiple cycles of costly conventional design‐make‐test‐analyse (DMTA) medicinal chemistry, necessitating picking winners early and discarding others.  It is effective to cheaply parallelize large numbers of non‐uniform multi‐step reactions, because, even without compound purification, a high‐quality readout of binding is available, viz. crystallography. This can detect low‐level binding of slightly active compounds, which the targeted binding site extracts directly from crude reaction mixtures (CRMs). In this proof‐of‐concept study, we expand a fragment hit from a crystal‐based screen of the bromodomain PHIP2, using array synthesis on low‐cost robotics to implement 6 independent multi‐step reaction routes of up to 5 steps, attempting the synthesis of 1876 diverse expansions,  designs entirely driven by synthetic tractability. The expected product was present in 1108 (59%) CRMs, detected by automated mass spectrometry, 22 individual products were resolved in crystal structures of CRMs added to crystals, providing an initial SAR map, pose stability in 19 and instability in 3 products and resolved stereochemical preference. One compound showed biochemical potency (IC50=34 μM) and affinity (Kd=50 μM) after resynthesis.
Au(I)‐, Au(II)‐, Au(III)‐fluoride Complexes: Synthesis and Applications in Organic Transformations
Authors: Sedikides Alexi T. , Walters Rhian C. , Dean Alice C. , Lennox Alastair J. J.
Published: February 2025

The synthesis and reactivity of organometallic gold‐fluoride complexes in oxidation states of Au(I), Au(II), and Au(III), up to and including 2024, are reviewed herein. Despite the flourishing field of gold catalysis, these complexes had long been elusive due to their instability. A widespread interest in C‐C and C‐F coupling reactions has resulted in several developments of these complexes in recent years. The use of a variety of supporting ligands have facilitated access to these complexes, which has allowed their reactivity to be further studied and understood, thereby laying the ground for future reaction development. This review highlights these advances, organised by the formal oxidation state of the gold centre and the supporting ligand.
Aryl Silicon Nucleophiles in Bismuth Catalysis
Authors: Faber Teresa , Engelhardt Sophia , Cornella Josep
Published: February 2025

We present a catalytic protocol utilizing bismuth for the synthesis of aromatic fluorinated thiosulfones, showcasing a seminal example of aryl silicon nucleophiles in Bi catalysis. This catalytic process is enabled by a series of Bi‐based organometallic transformations, including an unprecedented transmetalation of aryl silicates to Bi(III) complexes and the formal migratory insertion of sulfur dioxide (SO2) into the Bi‒C bond. The protocol is compatible with a wide range of anionic and neutral Ar‒Si compounds, including heterocycles. Stoichiometric investigations of individual organometallic steps provide strong evidence supporting a Bi‐redox‐neutral catalytic cycle
Oxygen‐Coordinated Cr Single‐Atom Catalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Luo Junming , Zhang Yating , Lu Zhe , Liu Chao , Xu Yueshan , Chen Hui , Wang Qi , Wu Daoxiong , Dang Dai , Deng Yijie , Rao Peng , Deng Peilin , Li Jing , Miao Zhengpei , Tian Xinlong
Published: February 2025

Carbon‐supported metal single‐atom catalysts (M‐SACs) are promising oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts. Their ORR activity and selectivity are significantly affected by the heteroatoms that coordinate the central metal atoms. Previous reports found that oxygen‐coordinated M‐SACs promoted a 2e− ORR rather than the 4e− ORR that is more desirable for fuel cells. Herein, we report for the first time that oxygen‐coordinated M‐SACs are capable of promoting the 4e− ORR in acid media. We prepared a Cr(acac)‐NC catalyst with the central Cr atom coordinated by two O atoms. The Cr(acac)‐NC catalyst not only exhibits excellent ORR activity and stability in acid media, but also delivers high proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) performance comparable to N‐coordinated M‐SACs. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that Cr−O2 moieties located on the zigzag edge of the carbon support are the ORR‐active sites.
A Mechanochromic Rotaxane that Releases Azetidine‐Trityl‐Maleimide, a Versatile Fluorescent Probe
Authors: Wu Mengjiao , De Bo Guillaume
Published: February 2025

Force sensing at the molecular level has enabled the study of materials failure and it offers great promises for the investigation of mechanobiological processes. Traditional force probes rely on the reversible or irreversible activation of mechanochromic precursors to assess transient or permanent changes in the polymer networks. A promising approach involves force‐controlled release of sensing molecules, as the accumulation of chromic molecules at specific sites would enable the recording of deformation histories. However, many fluorescent probes are limited by environmental sensitivity, specific release conditions, or low release efficiency. Maleimide‐based dyes, especially amino maleimides, offer a robust alternative due to their small size, structural versatility, and tuneable fluorescence properties. Here, we present a mechanochromic rotaxane device that releases an azetidine‐trityl‐maleimide (ATM) fluorescent probe via a retro‐[4+2] cycloaddition reaction. ATM, is a rigidochromic, chemically stable, and environmentally insensitive probe, generated exclusively through rotaxane actuation, underscoring the unique mechanochemical properties of rotaxanes. This device holds potential for applications in material science and biology, such as the investigation of polymer networks and active tissues.
Linkage Microenvironment and Oxygen Electroreduction Reaction Performance Correlationship of Iron Phthalocyanine‐based Polymers
Authors: Huang Mingtao , Gu Qiao , Wu Yonggan , Wei Yuanhao , Pei Yangfan , Hu Ting , Lützenkirchen-Hecht Dirk , Yuan Kai , Chen Yiwang
Published: February 2025

Iron phthalocyanine‐based conjugated polymers (PFePc) offer well‐defined sites, rendering them ideal model systems to elucidate structure‐property relationships towards oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), but have struggled to achieve improved catalytic activity due to uniform electron distribution of iron center and difficulty in molecular‐level structure design. Although rationally linkage microenvironmental regulation is an effective approach to adjusting activity, the underlying fundamental mechanism is incompletely understood. Herein, systematic DFT calculations and experimental investigation of PFePc analogous reveal that the incorporation of the electron‐withdrawing benzophenone linkage into the PFePc backbone (PFePc‐3) drives the delocalization of Fe d‐orbital electrons, downshifts the d‐band energy level, thereby tailoring the key OH* intermediate interaction, demonstrating enhanced ORR performance with a half‐wave potential of 0.91 V, a high mass activity of 21.43 A g‐1, and a high turnover frequency of 2.18 e s−1 site−1. Magnetic susceptibility measurements and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy reveal that linkage regulation can induce a 3d electron with high spin‐state (t2g3eg2) of PFePc‐3, significantly accelerating the ORR kinetics. In‐situ scanning electrochemical microscopy and variable‐frequency square wave voltammetry further highlight the rapid kinetics of PFePc‐3 to the high accessible site density (6.14×1019 site g‐1) and fast electron outbound propagation mechanism.
Antibacterial, Stretchable, and Self‐Adhesive Laponite‐TA Based Conductive Hydrogel Sensor for Human Motion Detection
Authors: Xu Hongyu , Zhang Jingjing , Lv Xue
Published: February 2025

Due to their biocompatibility and tissue‐like properties, hydrogels have garnered considerable interest in bioelectronics field. Nevertheless, their practical implementation is limited by factors such as inadequate mechanical strength, weak interface adhesion, and the lack of antimicrobial properties. To address these challenges, a novel conductive hydrogel was synthesized through free radical polymerization, incorporating laponite (LA), tannic acid (TA), polyacrylic acid (PAA), and polyacrylamide (pAAm). An innovative approach was employed to enhance LA's dispersion through ionic liquid (IL) in water through electrostatic interactions. The integration of TA, PAA, and PAAm with LA sheets via multiple hydrogen bonds resulted in excellent mechanical properties. The resulting P(AAm‐AA)/IL‐LA/TA hydrogel exhibits impressive characteristics, including a fracture stress of 0.44 MPa, a strain of 1800%. Notably, the hydrogel's TA component exhibits strong antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. This advanced hydrogel sensor effectively monitors human movements, displaying a gauge factor of 12.7. Furthermore, its versatile and conductive nature facilitates adhesion to a wide range of substrates, making it a promising candidate for applications in human activity monitoring, electronic devices, and medical health surveillance.
Rheological and Thermal Behavior of Xanthan Gum Nanofluids Based on Hexagonal Boron Nitride Under High‐Pressure and High‐Temperature Conditions
Authors: Soares Yago Chamoun F. , Fernandes Nathália Maria M. , Berghe Lara Schimith , Costa Lidiane Cristina , de Credo Fernanda Alice , Ribeiro Hélio , Naccache Mônica Feijó , Andrade Ricardo Jorge E.
Published: February 2025

Xanthan gum (XG) is a biopolymer widely used in different industries, such as food, cosmetics, oil, among others, which requires modifications in its properties. The present study aims to study the thermal and rheological properties of XG nanofluids based on oxidized hexagonal boron nitride (hBN‐oxi) under high temperature and pressure conditions. The hBN‐oxi was obtained through liquid exfoliation and then dispersed in the XG at different concentrations. The thermal conductivity of the nanofluids was investigated at different temperatures, and the addition of 6.0 wt% of hBN‐oxi in the polymeric system increased thermal conductivity up to 12% at 70°C. The rheological behavior was obtained through steady‐state and oscillatory flow measurements to evaluate the effect of hBN‐oxi concentration under different temperatures and pressures. At higher concentrations, these nanostructures induced a yield stress in the fluid reaching a value of 12.8 Pa.s. Under high shear rates, the viscosity of the nanofluid decreased by only 16% at 80°C, indicating effective mitigation of temperature effect on viscosity. The pressure influence was also suppressed with the addition of these modified nanoparticles. This study highlights that well‐designed formulations can significantly improve performance under extreme conditions.
Hydrophilic Photothermal Polydopamine/Polyurethane Foam for Efficient Solar‐Driven Water Evaporation
Authors: Zong Jiale , Wang Daxin , Yang Heng , Lu Bo , Huang Dan , Wang Xiangdong , Li Shuhong , Zang Xiaoling
Published: February 2025

Solar‐driven seawater desalination is considered an promising technology coping with water scarcity due to the sustainability of solar energy and its substitutability for fossil fuels. Nevertheless, the complex fabrication, high cost and low efficiency of solar‐driven evaporator limit its large‐scale application. Herein, the PDA/PU composite foam with porous three‐dimensional structure is developed to achieve low cost and high‐efficient solar‐driven water evaporation. Thereinto, hydrophilic PDA contributes to the real solar energy absorption, and provides an extremely high photothermal conversion efficiency. Meanwhile, the porous PU foam provides excellent capillary effect for sufficient water supply. The as‐fabricated PDA/PU foam can reach 77.8°C and 48.1°C under the laser and simulated solar irradiation (1 kW/m2), respectively. Further, the specific water evaporation rate is 1.93 kg/m2 h−1 under simulated solar irradiation. Therefore, the PDA/PU foam exhibits effective solar‐driven water evaporation rate which provides inspiration for the future development of high‐performance seawater desalination devices.
Structural, Optical, and Electrical Characteristics of Synthesized Novel and Flexible PCCCe Polymer Nanocomposites for EMI Shielding Applications
Authors: Sharma Neha , Aakansha  , Siddiqui M. G. , Dalela Saurabh , Kumar Shalendra , Hashmi S. Z. , Ahmad M. Ayaz , Quraishi A. M. , Alvi P. A.
Published: February 2025

This article reports, for the first time, the electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance of a flexible PCCCe polymer nanocomposite, which was manufactured using a mini twin‐screw extrusion process. In the manufacturing of PCCCe polymer nanocomposites, the binary polymer blends PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) and CS (chitosan) have been used as a host matrix, while CeO2 nanoparticles (synthesized via the sol–gel method) and CB (carbon black) have been used in the form of nanofillers. The incorporation of nanofillers in the matrix was verified through XRD analysis, causing the expansion in the crystallite size ranging from 18 to 28 nm along with the existing micro‐strain. The increased amount of nanofillers has shown an increase in the absorbance with blue shift and enhancement in the refractive index (from 2.09 to 2.16), with reduction in the optical band gap (from 4.79 to 4.03 eV) and lowering of the Urbach energy (from 1.36 to 0.33 eV). Blue emission has been observed and confirmed through the CIE plot studied in PL spectra. Thus, it demonstrates a unique combination of increased refractive index, reduced optical band gap, and lowered Urbach energy, along with blue‐shifted absorbance and blue emission confirmed via PL spectra, offering innovative control over optical properties for advanced multifunctional applications. Moreover, Raman spectroscopy reveals the presence of D, G, and D+G band peaks at 1361, 1560, and 2910 cm−1 due to the disordered crystal structure of carbon atoms. In addition to the structural and optical characterizations, the composites were also studied through the dielectric and shielding effect analysis in the X‐band frequency range that lies in the 5G spectrum. High dielectric constant and dielectric loss are claimed along with a high total shielding effectiveness parameter in the synthesized polymer nanocomposites. The flexible PCCCe polymer nanocomposites exhibit remarkable total shielding effectiveness elevated to 90 dB at 12 GHz, surpassing the performance of the other samples investigated in the study. This breakthrough in the PCCCe nanocomposite design highlights its potential as a next‐generation material for superior electromagnetic wave absorption and advanced EMI shielding applications.
Smart Self‐Healing Bituminous Material Modified by Shape Memory Polymer of Polynorbornene
Authors: Shao Rong‐Yue , Xing Qin‐Yu , Wang Xin‐Yu , Su Jun‐Feng
Published: February 2025

Shape memory polymers can be used to improve the self‐healing capability of materials. The aim of this work is to investigate the physicochemical characteristics and self‐healing capability of bituminous material blending with the shape memory polymer of polynorbornene. FT‐IR results indicated the presence of chemical links between functional groups between polynorbornene and bitumen. The ultrathin slice SEM image of the blend showed that polynorbornene and bitumen were compatible. The DSC curve of the blend sample only had one absorption peak, indicating their partially compatibility. The blending of polynorbornene dramatically increases bitumen's thermal stability, raising the bitumen blend's decomposition temperature to 320°C. The tensile strength of the blends at the same temperature also increases sharply. The change results in physical parameters indicated that the polynorbornene addition had increased the hardness and thermal stability of the blends. Rheological tests also demonstrated that adding the polynorbornene significantly increased the complex shear modulus (G*) values of blend samples, indicating that under the same temperature conditions, the polynorbornene significantly improved the deformation resistance of bitumen. The test results of deformation recovery capability indicated that the blends possessed rapid shape memory function. The excellent shape memory function of polynorbornene endowed bitumen with a multi‐self‐healing capability enhancement.
SDP‐based analysis and control of the response peak of discrete‐time uncertain systems via head/tail partition
Authors: Chesi Graziano , Shen Tiantian
Published: February 2025

This paper addresses the problems of analyzing and controlling the response peak of a discrete‐time uncertain linear system. A novel approach is proposed for the analysis problem based on the solution of a semidefinite program (SDP). The novel idea consists of splitting the response into two temporal parts, head and tail, which are analyzed via inspection of the response formula and via quadratic Lyapunov functions polynomially parameterized by the uncertainty. This approach is extended to deal with the control problem by proposing two strategies, one based on a nonconvex search obtained by alternately freezing some decision variables and the other one based on a convex search obtained by constructing a controller‐dependent index. The proposed approach has key advantages with respect to the existing methods, which may be conservative, or inapplicable, or computationally prohibitive.
Tube‐based stochastic model predictive control leveraging Gaussian process regression for linear systems with bounded additive uncertainties
Authors: Li Fei , Wu Chao , Cui Fangyin , Li Jianfeng , Duan Xiaoming , Song Lijun , Ji Xuande
Published: February 2025

This paper presents an adaptive tube‐based stochastic model predictive control algorithm for linear systems with state‐dependent additive uncertainties. Specifically, the uncertainty of the system is modeled using Gaussian process regression, and the information predicted by Gaussian process regression online is leveraged to establish a confidence region for the uncertainty. By employing this confidence region, the time‐varying probabilistic reachable set, referred to as a tube, is computed. Subsequently, the Gaussian process‐based stochastic model predictive control algorithm is devised by employing the probabilistic reachable set to redefine the state constraint. Furthermore, the recursive feasibility of the algorithm and the stability of the closed‐loop system are proved. Finally, the effectiveness and superiority over existing methods are validated by numerical simulations.
Gedanken zum Planen und Erhalten von Bauwerken
Authors: Kreuzinger Heinrich
Published: February 2025

In diesem Beitrag werden stichpunktartig einige wesentliche Aspekte der Arbeit von Professor Stefan Winter an der Technischen Universität München unter dem Leitgedanken „Bauwerke planen und erhalten“ genannt. Ziel aller am Bau Beteiligten ist es, Bauwerke so zu entwerfen, dass sie sicher, langlebig und wirtschaftlich sind und die Umwelt möglichst wenig belasten. Insbesondere der Baustoff Holz kann hier einen wertvollen Beitrag leisten. Voraussetzungen dafür sind eine fundierte Ausbildung der Ingenieure, klare Normen und Zulassungen, zuverlässige Prüfung der Unterlagen und Baustoffe sowie die regelmäßige Wartung bestehender Bauwerke. Professor Stefan Winter hat mit seinem Engagement als Bauingenieur und Hochschullehrer entscheidend zur Erreichung dieser Ziele beigetragen.
Von smartBRIDGE Hamburg zum Digitalen Zwilling Haupthafenroute im Hamburger Hafen
Authors: Schwarz Niklas , Petersen‐Tulipan Matthias
Published: February 2025

Eine hochwertige und leistungsfähige Infrastruktur ist das Rückgrat einer gut funktionierenden Volkswirtschaft. Um diesem Anspruch gerecht zu werden, stehen die Betreiber der Infrastruktur in Deutschland vor großen Herausforderungen. Eine alternde Infrastruktur trifft auf stark wachsende Verkehrsbelastungen. Gleichzeitig ist lt. dem UN Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction 2020 die Baubranche verantwortlich für ca. 40 % der globalen CO2‐Emissionen. In Zeiten des bevorstehenden Klimawandels steigt der Druck, Infrastruktur nachhaltig und umweltschonend zu erhalten. Ein valider Ansatz, um Verbesserungspotenziale zu heben, ist die Nutzung digitaler Technologien und effizienter Arbeitsmethoden. Der folgende Beitrag beschäftigt sich mit dem Einsatz von Digitalen Zwillingen von Infrastrukturbauwerken in der Hamburg Port Authority (HPA). Zuerst wird smartBRIDGE Hamburg vorgestellt – der Digitale Zwilling der Köhlbrandbrücke. smartBRIDGE Hamburg zeigt das Potenzial eines digitalen Erhaltungsmanagements und generiert einen objektiven Bauwerkszustand mithilfe analoger und digitaler Daten. Basierend auf diesen Erfahrungen hat ein interdisziplinäres Autor:innen‐Team, bestehend aus dem Bundesministerium für Digitales und Verkehr (BMDV), BIM.Hamburg und Marx Krontal Partner, den Beitrag „Digitaler Zwilling von Brücken: Beitrag zum Masterplan Digitaler Zwilling Bundesfernstraßen“ verfasst. Zusätzlich zum Beitrag wird ein Reallabor zur Verfügung gestellt, welches das Prinzip Digitaler Zwilling erlebbar macht. Im Januar 2024 hat Bundesminister Dr. Volker Wissing das Reallabor und den Beitrag veröffentlicht. Als Fortsetzung der guten Kooperation zwischen BMDV und BIM.Hamburg wird in der HPA der Digitale Zwilling der Hamburger Haupthafenroute entwickelt.
Tracing interpersonal emotion regulation, behavioural emotion regulation strategies, hopelessness and vocabulary retention within Bing vs. ChatGPT environments
Authors: Wang Meiping , Akhter Shamim
Published: February 2025

Despite the growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in language education, limited research has explored its impact on emotional regulation and vocabulary retention, particularly in English as a foreign language (EFL) contexts. This study addressed this gap by comparing the effects of Bing and ChatGPT environments on interpersonal emotion regulation (IER), behavioural emotion regulation strategies (BERS), hopelessness and vocabulary retention among 458 upper‐intermediate Chinese EFL learners. Participants were divided into three groups: Bing, ChatGPT and a control group (CG) receiving traditional instruction. Both AI‐supported groups engaged with identical content and tasks on their respective platforms, while the CG followed a conventional curriculum. A mixed‐methods design was employed, incorporating quantitative pre‐ and post‐tests and qualitative semi‐structured interviews. The one‐way ANOVA results revealed that both AI groups significantly outperformed the CG across all measures, with no statistical difference between Bing and ChatGPT groups. The learners in AI‐supported conditions reported reduced hopelessness and improved IER and BERS, alongside notable vocabulary retention. In agreement with the quantitative results, the qualitative findings highlighted the engaging and supportive nature of AI environments, which led to improved IER, BERS and vocabulary retention and reduced hopelessness in the EFL learners. These results suggest that integrating AI tools like Bing and ChatGPT in EFL classrooms can enhance emotional well‐being and language acquisition, offering valuable pedagogical insights for educators seeking to leverage technology in language instruction.
Assessment of an activity that promotes community building, inclusion, and perseverance in introductory college biology courses
Authors: Bocetti Julie M. , Alvarez Valentina , Elmore Donald E. , Matthews Adam G. W.
Published: February 2025

Community, inclusion, and perseverance are essential for student success in STEM. To promote these values, we developed two discussion‐based activities for implementation in introductory college STEM courses. Both activities incorporate watching videos that portray scientists telling the stories of their career trajectory, in‐class discussions, and individual reflection. The first activity addresses community building and inclusion in the classroom, while the second activity focuses on perseverance and student definitions of success. These activities were fully implemented into sections of introductory biology during the 2020–2021 academic year. We assessed how effectively these activities addressed their learning goals through analysis of student written responses and a survey given before and after activities. Overall, the activities were successful helping students achieve learning goals related to community, inclusion and perseverance.