bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addressing Poverty in Sudan and Malaysia: A Story of Success and Constraints
Authors: Abdelatti Hillo , Elhadary Yasin , Samat Narimah
Published: March 2016

Sudan and Malaysia have shown some socio-economic similarities especially when it comes to the issue of addressing poverty. After independence, almost half of the entire population of both countries were living under poverty line. The successive national governments in both countries have embarked on eliminating the extreme poverty. The aim of this paper is to highlight the policies and programmes adopted and implemented by policymakers in both countries in addressing poverty. The overall objective is to uncover the secret of the success and constraints faced both countries in addressing poverty. To achieve such objective, the paper based mainly on a desk review of recent documents and review of some recent researches' result. The paper has come out with that the similarities between both countries manifested itself in that both are classified as Muslim countries, have an agricultural background, inherited the same legacy as been colonized by British, their communities consist of various ethnic groups and minorities with sharp spatial and ethnic inequalities in income and social class. Despite these, Malaysia has succeeded in reducing poverty from over fifty 52.4% in 1970 to around one per cent 1.2 % in 2015, while less progress has been made in side of Sudan. Moreover, unlike Sudan, Malaysia has managed to achieve the MDGs goals in halving a head before the time determined, while Sudan has long way and it seems impossible to fulfil such objective even after 2015. Our findings have shown that, formulated home-grown policies, rejecting imposed policies by international institutions (World Bank), availability and accessibility of up to date poverty data, ability to implement policies and above all the political will are the main drivers behind the secret of success in the side of Malaysia and vice versa for Sudan. Sudan like other countries has to follow the Malaysia model if the decision makers are serious in eliminating poverty. This paper may contribute to the on-going discussion on poverty and open rooms for more comparative study between nations. Comparative study will help the planners in formulating rational policy, benefitting from exchanging ideas and learning from each.
The Hierarchy of Values in the Contemporary Science
Authors: Mielkov Iurii A.
Published: March 2016

The author follows the philosophical conception of the contemporary science that presents it as “post-non-classical”—as an emerging paradigm of dialectical comprehension of scientific knowledge that resolves the contradiction between classical monism and non-classical plurality by enabling the approach to considering the reality as unity in plurality. In the light of that conception, scientific values and goals constitute an elaborate hierarchical system, its highest level being presented by the ideal as the embodiment of both the final goal of the whole activity and the fundamental value that defines the goal-setting on lower hierarchy levels. The current crisis of science, as well as crises visible in many other spheres of human activity, could in fact be traced to the crisis of values—particularly, to the latency of the higher levels of values, and especially that of the ideal, that forces lower “means” to serve as quasi-values while profaning the whole enterprise. That is, instead of searching for the truth, scientific community is engaged only in mundane activities like supporting its own institutional existence and providing profit for its members. The proposed solution to the current crisis could be presented in the form of asserting human personality as the autonomous subject of moral judgment and philosophical recognition of the ideal level as the ultimate determinant of scientific activity.
Ethnobotanical study on medicinal plants used by Li people in Ledong, Hainan Island, China
Authors: Huang Weijuan , Li Ping , Liu Yujing , Huang Wen , Ju Yan , Wang Jianjun , Ntumwel Chia B. , Long Chunlin
Published: March 2016

The paper documents on the uses of traditional medicinal plants used for treating human ailments in three villages of Ledong, a county inhabited by Li ethnic group in the southwest of Hainan Province, China. Semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews and participatory observations were used to collect ethnobotanical data from February to March 2012 and in July 2013. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Thirty native knowledgeable people were interviewed. The Li community uses 50 plant species in 36 families for medicinal purposes. The most common medicinal plant families were Leguminosae (14%), Compositae (6%), and Euphorbiaceae (6%), and the most common preparations methods were decoction (84%), crushing (38%), and poultice (34%). The traditional medicinal plants were mainly used for hemostasis (12.9%), body pains (11.4%), gastrointestinal disorders (11.4%), and trauma (10%). Twenty-four species of medicinal plants (48%) have never been reported in the literature of Li medicines. In addition, 22 species (44%) have already been studied by researchers and their extracts or compounds were good bio-actives. However, the rapid socio-economic development in the county is the main threat to the conservation of Li medicine and has resulted in the decrease in the abundance and use of medicinal plants and associated traditional knowledge. Other factors accounting for a decrease in the use of Li medicinal plants like loss of plant diversity, change of land use, and threatened traditional knowledge were equally discussed.
Personality and Self-Compassion : Exploring Their Relationships in an Indian Context
Authors: Thurackal Jobi Thomas , Corveleyn Jozef , Dezutter Jessie
Published: March 2016

The present study examines the relationship between personality and self-compassion among Indian emerging adults. Two samples of emerging adult males (N1 = 494 Catholic seminarians, N2 = 504 Catholic non-seminarians) completed the Big Five Inventory, the Honesty-Humility Subscale of HEXACO and the Self-Compassion Scale–Short Form. Primarily, we examined the mean-level differences for Big Five factors, honesty-humility and self-compassion between the samples and found that mean-levels were higher for seminarians except for neuroticism. Therefore, we treated the samples separately for further analyses. Secondly, we examined the associations between personality factors of the Big Five, honesty-humility and self-compassion. Consciousness, agreeableness and extraversion were positively associated with self-compassion. Neuroticism had a large negative correlation with self-compassion. Openness to experience had a medium positive relationship with self-compassion among seminarians and a small positive relationship among emerging adult non-seminarians. A medium positive association was found between honesty-humility and self-compassion. Thirdly, we examined the impact of personality factors on self-compassion. Self-compassion was significantly and positively predicted by agreeableness, conscientiousness, openness to experience and honesty-humility for seminarians and by extraversion, agreeableness and conscientiousness for non-seminarians. Neuroticism was a significant negative predictor of self-compassion for both samples.
Relationship between Recalled Parental Care and Religious Coping : The Mediating Effect of Attachment to God
Authors: Láng András
Published: March 2016

Attachment to God is related to both parental bonding and religious coping, but the relation of the two latter variables has gained little attention until now. In a study among 95 Roman Catholics (49 women), the mediating role of attachment to God between perceived parental care and religious coping was tested. Results showed that levels of avoidant attachment to God and positive religious coping were independent of perceived parental care. Multiple linear regressions revealed that anxious attachment to God fully mediated the relationship between parental care and negative religious coping. Possible explanations for these selective relationships are discussed.
Sensitive Electrochemical Determination of Rhodamine B Based on a Silica-Pillared Zirconium Phosphate/Nafion Composite Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhang Liu , Wang Wenchang , Chen Zhidong
Published: March 2016

A sensitive and convenient electrochemical method was developed for the determination of rhodamine B by a silica-pillared zirconium phosphate/nafion composite (SPZP/NAF) modified glassy carbon electrode. The SPZP was characterized with scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Because of the layer structure and large specific surface area of SPZP, the SPZP/NAF modified glassy carbon electrode showed high electrocatalytic activity toward the oxidation of rhodamine B. Under optimal experimental conditions, the SPZP/NAF modified electrode exhibited a wide linear response to rhodamine B ranging from 0.01 to 5.0 μM and a low detection limit down to 4.3 nM (S/N = 3). This method showed good accuracy, acceptable precision, and reproducibility. This electrode had been applied in the determination of rhodamine B in preserved fruit and chili powder samples. The proposed method provided a useful tool for the assay of rhodamine B in food samples.
Dataset for Reporting of Malignant Mesothelioma of the Pleura or Peritoneum: Recommendations From the International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR)
Authors: Churg Andrew , Attanoos Richard , Borczuk Alain C. , Chirieac Lucian R. , Galateau-Sallé Françoise , Gibbs Allen , Henderson Douglas , Roggli Victor , Rusch Valerie , Judge Meagan J. , Srigley John R.
Published: March 2016

Context.—The International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting is a not-for-profit organization formed by the Royal Colleges of Pathologists of Australasia and the United Kingdom; the College of American Pathologists; the Canadian Association of Pathologists–Association Canadienne des Pathologists, in association with the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer; and the European Society of Pathology. Its goal is to produce common, internationally agreed upon, evidence-based datasets for use throughout the world.

Objective.—To describe a dataset developed by the Expert Panel of the International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting for reporting malignant mesothelioma of both the pleura and peritoneum. The dataset is composed of “required” (mandatory) and “recommended” (nonmandatory) elements.

Design.—Based on a review of the most recent evidence and supported by explanatory commentary.

Results.—Eight required elements and 7 recommended elements were agreed upon by the Expert Panel to represent the essential information for reporting malignant mesothelioma of the pleura and peritoneum.

Conclusions.—In time, the widespread use of an internationally agreed upon, structured, pathology dataset for mesothelioma will lead not only to improved patient management but also provide valuable data for research and international benchmarks.
Un sistema agricolo familiare ovvero ciò che è chiamato il monachesimo del Giura
Authors: Alciati Roberto
Published: March 2016

The principal aim of this paper is to describe the ascetic community founded by the two brothers Romanus and Lupicinus on Jura mountains in the fifth century. Although the male communities are usually described as open places, crowded with guests, pilgrim and sick people and historians wanted mainly to put this form of ascetic way of life in relationship with other similar Gallic communities, some traces in the

show as these elements are quite unsatisfactory. Family and patrimony seem to be the most predominant feature of these series of monasteries. These traces are here collected in order to try a new description and interpretation of the Jura monasticism, which appears mainly as a re-organization of a rich and spread family estate system. In this case, hagiographical and archaeological data fruitfully agree.
Sull’aborto e la sterilità di Eusebia e Costanzo: riflessioni a partire da Ammiano, 16.10.18-19
Authors: Girotti Beatrice
Published: March 2016

The study of Ammianus, 16.10.18-19 starts from a comparison with the rescript of Severus and Caracalla (for the history of abortion). Ammianus is also compared with Zosimus and Zonaras and Cedrenus as well. In evidence, the role of women in Late Antique Court.
La storiografia sulla ‘familia’ romana fra inquadramenti tradizionali e nuove tendenze di ricerca
Authors: Lamberti Francesca
Published: March 2016

History of studies on the family. In particular, the evidence is for its models and its impact on the Roman society. The centrality of the «natural family» and the «patriarchal system» continually resurface as foundations of the «Roman model».
Tra letteratura e diritto: strategie familiari e legami parentali in età tardoantica
Authors: Puliatti Salvatore
Published: March 2016

The study focuses on the debate on the Christian inbreeding, admitted in the Roman tradition since 3

degree of kinship. These unions are prohibited from Theodosius legislation for the strong influence of Bishop Ambrose and his arguments. The same arguments are then repeated and reconsiderated by authors such Augustine and Cassiodorus.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in Patients with Morton's Neuroma
Authors: Seok Hyun , Kim Sang-Hyun , Lee Seung Yeol , Park Sung Won
Published: March 2016

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) for the treatment of Morton's neuroma by measuring changes in patient pain, function, and neuroma size.

Methods: Patients with Morton's neuroma were randomly assigned to either the ESWT group or the sham stimulation group. Outcome measures, including visual analog scale (VAS) and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society lesser toes (AOFAS) scores, were assessed at baseline and 1 and 4 weeks after treatment. The Johnson satisfaction test was also performed 1 and 4 weeks after treatment. The neuroma diameter was measured using ultrasonography at baseline and 4 weeks after treatment.

Results: Patients receiving ESWT exhibited significantly decreased VAS scores 1 and 4 weeks after treatment relative to baseline, and AOFAS scores were significantly improved 4 weeks after treatment relative to baseline. In the sham stimulation group, VAS and AOFAS scores showed no significant changes at any time after treatment. Neither group showed significant changes in Johnson satisfaction test results or neuroma diameter.

Conclusions: These results suggest that ESWT may reduce pain in patients with Morton's neuroma.
A glucose-starvation response regulates the diffusion of macromolecules
Authors: Joyner Ryan P , Tang Jeffrey H , Helenius Jonne , Dultz Elisa , Brune Christiane , Holt Liam J , Huet Sebastien , Müller Daniel J , Weis Karsten
Published: March 2016

The organization and biophysical properties of the cytosol implicitly govern molecular interactions within cells. However, little is known about mechanisms by which cells regulate cytosolic properties and intracellular diffusion rates. Here, we demonstrate that the intracellular environment of budding yeast undertakes a startling transition upon glucose starvation in which macromolecular mobility is dramatically restricted, reducing the movement of both chromatin in the nucleus and mRNPs in the cytoplasm. This confinement cannot be explained by an ATP decrease or the physiological drop in intracellular pH. Rather, our results suggest that the regulation of diffusional mobility is induced by a reduction in cell volume and subsequent increase in molecular crowding which severely alters the biophysical properties of the intracellular environment. A similar response can be observed in fission yeast and bacteria. This reveals a novel mechanism by which cells globally alter their properties to establish a unique homeostasis during starvation.
Crawling towards a map of the brain
Authors: Masullo Laura , Tripodi Marco
Published: March 2016

State-of-the-art techniques reveal a simple circuit of neurons controls the muscle contractions that allow fruit fly larvae to crawl.
Impact of paid work on the academic performance of nursing students
Authors: García-Vargas Mery Constanza , Rizo-Baeza Mercedes , Cortés-Castell Ernesto
Published: March 2016

Background.Little research exists on the impact of paid work on academic performance of students of health sciences. No research exists on this subject for students in Colombia.

Objectives.This paper seeks to analyze the impact of paid work on academic performance among nursing students. Design, settings and participants: cross-sectional research, involving 430 of nursing students from the National University of Colombia (N= 566).

Methods.Variables analyzed: sex, age, work activity, attendance, current semester, degree subjects studied and unavailable, lost credits, grades during the second semester of 2013, and delayed semesters. Subgroups analyzed: (i) according to labor activity: do not work, work up to 20 h and work more than 20 h per week; (ii) Grade point average: failing is considered as less than 3.0 and passing 3.0 or above out of 5.0. Percentage of delayed semesters were calculated. Qualitative and quantitative variables were analyzed for groups by work activity. The percentage and probability of students getting a grade point average less than 3.0 and delaying semesters were calculated by multivariate logistic regression.

Results. A total of 219 of the students work (50.9%), the main reason is socioeconomic, of which 99 (45.2%) work more than 20 h per week and have an increased risk of failing, which is higher in the first semester. They also get lower grades, lose more credits and take longer to finish the degree. The logistic bivariate regressions of success (grade point average, credits gained, courses gained and not having delayed semesters) reduce with work, above all in those who work more than 20 h per week and increase as the number of semesters completed increases, independent of sex.

Conclusion.A high percentage of nursing students work more than 20 h per week. The compatibility of paid work with studies in university nursing students has a negative impact on academic performance, more so when they work more than 20 h per week. This negative impact diminishes as the student completes semesters, irrespective of the sex of the students.
Host plant use drives genetic differentiation in syntopic populations ofMaculinea alcon
Authors: Tartally András , Kelager Andreas , Fürst Matthias A. , Nash David R.
Published: March 2016

The rare socially parasitic butterflyMaculinea alconoccurs in two forms, which are characteristic of hygric or xeric habitats and which exploit different host plants and host ants. The status of these two forms has been the subject of considerable controversy. Populations of the two forms are usually spatially distinct, but at Răscruci in Romania both forms occur on the same site (syntopically). We examined the genetic differentiation between the two forms using eight microsatellite markers, and compared with a nearby hygric site, Şardu. Our results showed that while the two forms are strongly differentiated at Răscruci, it is the xeric form there that is most similar to the hygric form at Şardu, and Bayesian clustering algorithms suggest that these two populations have exchanged genes relatively recently. We found strong evidence for population substructuring, caused by high within host ant nest relatedness, indicating very limited dispersal of most ovipositing females, but not association with particular host ant species. Our results are consistent with the results of larger scale phylogeographic studies that suggest that the two forms represent local ecotypes specialising on different host plants, each with a distinct flowering phenology, providing a temporal rather than spatial barrier to gene flow.
Updated Multiple Sclerosis Incidence, 2015-2022
Authors: Graf Jonas , Akmatov Manas K. , Meuth Sven G. , Tremlett Helen , Holstiege Jakob
Published: September 2024

This cohort study uses population-based claims data to provide an update of multiple sclerosis incidence in Germany.
Anxiety and Depression in Youth With Chronic Pain
Authors: Dudeney Joanne , Aaron Rachel V. , Hathway Taylor , Bhattiprolu Kavya , Bisby Madelyne A. , McGill Lakeya S. , Gandy Milena , Harte Nicole , Dear Blake F.
Published: September 2024

Importance

For youth with chronic pain, anxiety and depression are reported as consequences of experiencing pain and maintaining factors of ongoing pain and disability. However, prevalence estimates of anxiety and depression remain unclear.

Objective

To report the prevalence of clinical anxiety and depression for youth with chronic pain and compare symptoms of anxiety and depression between youth with and without chronic pain.

Data Sources

MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CENTRAL, and Embase from inception to April 30, 2023.

Study Selection

Included studies that reported prevalence data or symptom scores for anxiety and/or depression in individuals younger than 25 years (mean, ≤18 years) with chronic pain and were published in English.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

From 9648 nonduplicate records, 801 full-text articles were screened. Screening and data extraction occurred in duplicate. Prevalence was determined using event rate calculations. Between-group symptom differences were calculated using Hedges g. Analyses were conducted using the random-effects model. Reporting bias and Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation assessments were conducted.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Prevalence of anxiety and depression (based on diagnosis and clinical cutoff scores) and differences in anxiety and depression symptoms. Moderators of prevalence and symptom differences were analyzed when data allowed.

Results

A total of 79 studies were included with a total sample of 22 956 youth (n = 12 614 with chronic pain). Most youth were female (mean, 74%), with an age range of 4 to 24 (mean [SD], 13.7 [2.10]) years. The prevalence estimate of anxiety diagnoses was 34.6% (95% CI, 24.0%-47.0%) and the portion that exceeded clinical cutoff scores was 23.9% (95% CI, 18.3%-30.6%). The prevalence of depression diagnoses was 12.2% (95% CI, 7.8%-18.7%) and the portion that exceeded clinical cutoff scores was 23.5% (95% CI, 18.7%-29.2%). Youth with chronic pain had greater symptoms of anxiety (g = 0.61; 95% CI, 0.46-0.77) and depression (g = 0.74; 95% CI, 0.63-0.85) compared with controls. Sex, age, pain location, and recruitment sample may moderate anxiety and depression. Considerable heterogeneity was reported for all outcomes. Studies had a low reporting bias, and outcomes were moderate to high quality.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this meta-analysis suggest that 1 in 3 youth with chronic pain meet criteria for anxiety disorder, and 1 in 8 meet criteria for a depressive disorder. This represents a major clinical comorbidity. Moving forward, screening, prevention, and treatment of mental health should be important health care priorities for youth with chronic pain.
A primer on single‐cell RNA‐seq analysis using dendritic cells as a case study
Authors: Protti Giulia , Spreafico Roberto
Published: September 2024

Recent advances in single‐cell (sc) transcriptomics have revolutionized our understanding of dendritic cells (DCs), pivotal players of the immune system. ScRNA‐sequencing (scRNA‐seq) has unraveled a previously unrecognized complexity and heterogeneity of DC subsets, shedding light on their ontogeny and specialized roles. However, navigating the rapid technological progress and computational methods can be daunting for researchers unfamiliar with the field. This review aims to provide immunologists with a comprehensive introduction to sc transcriptomic analysis, offering insights into recent developments in DC biology. Addressing common analytical queries, we guide readers through popular tools and methodologies, supplemented with references to benchmarks and tutorials for in‐depth understanding. By examining findings from pioneering studies, we illustrate how computational techniques have expanded our knowledge of DC biology. Through this synthesis, we aim to equip researchers with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate and leverage scRNA‐seq for unraveling the intricacies of DC biology and advancing immunological research.
Performance of binary MLC using real‐time optical sensor feedback system
Authors: Corradini Nathan A. , Vite Cristina , Urso Patrizia
Published: September 2024

The Radixact system (Accuray Inc., Sunnyvale, CA) is the latest platform release based on the TomoTherapy technology. The most recent system does not apply a leaf latency model correction after plan optimization to ensure the correct MLC leaf‐open time (LOT) agreement between the TPS and machine delivery. The MLC uses optical sensors to measure the delivered LOTs in real‐time and individual leaf‐specific latency corrections are made to ensure agreement. The aim of this study was to assess the performance of the Radixact MLC with leaf‐specific latency correction using the optical sensor's real‐time feedback. Specifically, the study statistically evaluated the MLC LOT errors observed from 290 plan‐specific quality assurance (PSQA) measurements. Repeatability testing was performed to quantify the uncertainty in the MLC feedback system delivery by analyzing > 1300 delivered treatment fractions throughout the course of radiotherapy. The clinical impact was evaluated by estimating the resulting dose difference in the patient targets due to the measured plan latencies. Our study measured an average plan latency equal to 2.0 ± 0.4 ms (0.6% ± 0.2%) for 290 PSQAs. Repeatability tests showed a mean standard deviation in plan latencies measuring 0.05 ms (0.02%). The deviation from the TPS in the mean target dose due to the plan latencies was estimated to be 0.0% ± 0.2% (range: ‐0.7%–1.1%). The current MLC system with real‐time optical sensor feedback is capable of accurately delivering the TPS‐generated sinograms. Repeatability test results showed that the system allows for high reliability in daily sinogram delivery. The MLC latency deviations were shown to have minimal clinical impact on the overall target dosimetry.
The Impact of Pregnancy Readiness on Lupus Activity, Maternal Mental Health, and Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Harding Ceshae C. , Eudy Amanda M. , Sims Cathrine A. , Edens Cuoghi , Birru Talabi Mehret , Ramsey‐Goldman Rosalind , Neil Laura , Clowse Megan E. B.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Among individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who became pregnant, we explored the impact of medical readiness for pregnancy and personal readiness for pregnancy on the following aspects of maternal health: (1) provider‐reported disease activity, (2) patient‐perceived disease activity, (3) mood symptoms, (4) pregnancy‐related health behaviors, and (5) pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

All study participants were enrolled in a prospective registry, met Systemic Lupus Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) criteria for SLE, and had at least one pregnancy. Patient‐reported outcomes were collected at the first rheumatology visit during pregnancy. “Medically ready” for pregnancy was defined as (1) <1 g of proteinuria, (2) no rheumatic teratogens at conception, and (3) continuing pregnancy‐compatible SLE medications after conception. “Personally ready” was defined as planned pregnancy based on a London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy score ≥10. Multivariable logistic regression models estimated the association of pregnancy readiness with each outcome of interest.

Results

Among the 111 individuals enrolled, lack of medical readiness for pregnancy was associated with significantly higher rates of active disease and worse pregnancy outcomes; however, these patients did not perceive themselves as having higher disease activity. Lack of personal readiness for pregnancy was associated with significantly higher patient‐perceived disease activity. Although medical readiness did not impact depressive symptoms substantially, lack of personal readiness for pregnancy was associated with much higher maternal depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

To improve pregnancy outcomes among individuals with SLE, greater focus is needed on improving medical optimization before conception. For maternal mental health and quality of life, greater focus is needed on decreasing the incidence of unplanned pregnancy.
A Breathable and Strain‐Insensitive Multi‐Layered E‐Skin Patch for Digital Healthcare Wearables
Authors: Pradhan Gagan Bahadur , Jeong Seonghoon , Sharma Sudeep , Lim SeungJae , Shrestha Kumar , Lee YeYoung , Park Jae Yeong
Published: September 2024

In this study, a breathable and strain‐insensitive multi‐layered electronic skin (e‐skin) capable of real‐time detection and distinction of electrocardiogram (ECG) signals, temperature, and skin hydration is developed. Leveraging a scalable benchtop method, sensing elements are transferred onto porous and hydrophobic substrates, followed by multi‐layer stacking to enable multimodal sensing. The sensing elements, a combination of carbon nanotube and nanoporous carbon (CNT@NPC) ink, are applied using strain‐insensitive patterned masks, then spray‐coated with styrene–ethylene–butylene–styrene (SEBS) to create a hierarchical porous network through phase separation. The CNT@NPC networks exhibit an improvement in strain insensitivity with active sensing capabilities due to their adaptable molecular tuning capacity and exceptional electrical conductivity. The porous SEBS substrate offers strong bonding with CNT@NPC attributed to the π–π interactions and high kinetic energy dispersion from spray coating allowing effective transfer. This unique design facilitates breathability, and miniaturization that minimizes the interference between different sensing modalities, ensuring accurate and reliable data acquisition. The breathability (3.49 mg cm−2 h−1) and the non‐smearing nature of the multi‐layered e‐skin enables simultaneous monitoring of temperature (0.198% °C−1), skin hydration (relative humidity = 0.77% %−1), and ECG (26 ± 1 dB) with continuous data transmission to a remote smartphone interface.
A Thermosensitive Ionic Hydrogel for Thermotropic Smart Windows With Integrated Thermoelectric Energy Harvesting Capability
Authors: Fu Mi , Yuan Yuwei , Liu Xiaobo , Sun Zhenxuan , Hu Faqi , Luo Chuan , Yue Kan
Published: September 2024

Harvesting low‐grade waste heat into electrical energy is recognized as a promising solution for sustainable energy supply. In parallel, thermotropic smart windows have emerged as an efficient way to reduce building energy consumption. It is posit that thermotropic smart windows with inherent thermoelectric property may offer unique advantages for practical applications. Herein, the preparation and characterization of a series of ionic hydrogels that exhibit temperature‐sensitive phase transition behavior is reported, which are suitable for both thermotropic smart windows and thermoelectric generators. Notably, the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of this ionic hydrogels can be feasibly modulated, and the thermoteopic phase transition also induces a sharp increase in their Seebeck coefficient, reaching up to 39.03 mV K−1 with a power factor (PFi) value up to 0.838 mW m−1 K−2. A prototype dual functional thermotropic smart window that simultaneously works as an ionic thermoelectric generator is further demonstrated, achieving both efficient phase transition driven by solar heat at ≈26 °C and an energy density up to 250 mJ m−2. This study offers new opportunity for the development of smart materials that can bridge the gap between thermal comfort and energy sustainability for energy harvesting and smart building applicat.
Supercapacitively Liquid‐Solid Dual‐State Optoelectronics
Authors: Guo Qianying , Ji Daizong , Wang Qiankun , Peng Lan , Zhang Cong , Wu Yungen , Kong Derong , Luo Shi , Liu Wentao , Chen Gang , Wei Dapeng , Liu Yunqi , Wei Dacheng
Published: September 2024

Photo‐transduction of solid‐state optoelectronics occurs in semiconductors or their interfaces. Considering the confined active area and interfacial capacitance of solid‐state materials, solid‐state optoelectronics faces inherent limitations in photo‐transduction, especially for bionic vision, and the performance is lower than that of living systems. For example, a photoreceptor generates pA‐level photocurrent when absorbing a single photon. Here, a liquid‐solid dual‐state phototransistor is demonstrated, in which photo‐transduction and modulation take place at the microporous interface between semiconductors and water, mimicking principles of the photoreceptor. When operating in the water, an orderly stacked photo‐harvesting covalent organic framework layer generates supercapacitively photogating modulation of the channel conductivity via a dual‐state interface, achieving responsivity of 4.6 × 1010 A W−1 and detectivity of 1.62 × 1016 Jones at room temperature, several orders of magnitude higher than other photodetectors. Such bio‐inspired dual‐state optoelectronics enables high‐contrast scotopic neuromorphic imaging with responsivity greater than photoreceptors, holding promise for constructing optoelectronic systems with performance beyond conventional solid‐state optoelectronics.
K‐Rich Spinel Interface of Air‐Stable Layered Oxide Cathodes for Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Xiaowei , Guo Yaqing , Zhang Qian , Zhou Xing , Yuan Yifei , Zhang Yinhan , Han Jin , Nie Anmin , Lu Jun , You Ya
Published: September 2024

Potassium‐containing transition metal layered oxides (KxTmO2), although possessing high energy density and suitable operating voltage, suffer from severe hygroscopic properties due to their two dimensional (2D) layered structure. Their air sensitivity compromises structural stability during prolonged air exposure, therefore increasing the cost. The common sense for designing air‐stable layered cathode materials is to avoid contact with H2O molecules. In this study, it is surprisingly found that P3‐type KxTmO2 forms an ultra‐thin, potassium‐rich spinel phase wrapping layer after simply water immersion, remarkedly reduces the reaction activity of the material's surface with air. Combined with Density Function Theory (DFT) calculations, this spinel phase is found to be able to effectively withstand air deterioration and preserving the crystal structure. Consequently, the water‐treated material, when exposed to air, can largely maintain its good electrochemical performance, with capacity retention up to 99.15% compared to the fresh samples. Such an in situ surface phase transformation mechanism is also corroborated in other KxTmO2, underscoring its effectiveness in enhancing the air stability of P3‐type layered oxides for K+ storage.
C60 Functionalized Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotube‐based Phototransistor for Efficient Detection of Visible Light Under Appropriate Gate Electrostatics
Authors: Rathore Divyanshu , Thakur Uttam Narendra , Hazra Arnab
Published: September 2024

The current study concerns highly reliable visible light sensing by C60 fullerene functionalized single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) based phototransistor. The absorbance of visible light (532 nm) increases significantly due to the formation of an interlink between the SWCNT network and C60 clusters. Photogenerated excess electrons in SWCNT are trapped by the C60 clusters and increase the effective hole concentrations in the SWCNT channel, which eventually improves the photoconductive gain. C60‐SWCNT channel is further integrated into the back gated field effect transistor (FET) structure in which 90 nm SiO2 dielectric thickness is used. The responsivity toward visible light is further enlarged with appropriate negative gate electrostatic. In order to ensure the morphological and structural behavior of C60‐SWCNT, various microscopic and spectroscopic characterizations are performed. The C60‐SWCNT phototransistor exhibits responsivity of 1.219 A W−1 at Vgs = – 21 V. The detectivity and rise/fall time of C60‐SWCNT came around to be 2.34 × 1010 Jones, 86.42 ms/3.35 ms at the same Vgs. The maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of the C60‐SWCNT phototransistor is very high, ≈274%. In the overall study, a comprehensive discussion is introduced on the effect of variable gate potential on the performance of the C60‐SWCNT phototransistor.
Ce3+/Ce4+–TiO2 Nano‐Octahedra as Active Photocatalysts for Ciprofloxacin Photodegradation Under Solar Light
Authors: Shani Baliana , Liccardo Letizia , Bordin Matteo , Martín Isabel Barroso , Infantes‐Molina Antonia , Rodríguez‐Castellón Enrique , Ibrahim Kassa Belay , Vomiero Alberto , Moretti Elisa
Published: September 2024

Cerium‐containing titania nano‐octahedra (CeTNOh) are obtained by ultrasonication‐hydrothermal synthesis of Ce‐containing titanate nanowires (0.35, 0.46, and 0.70 Ce mol %) from commercial TiO2 (Degussa P25). CeTNOh are tested as photocatalysts to degrade a target pollutant (ciprofloxacin) under simulated solar light and at mild conditions. CeTNOh are anatase polymorphs with increasing crystallite size as Ce content increases. Hydrothermal treatments enhance the specific surface area (SSA) compared to P25, although Ce addition slightly reduces SSA while increasing crystallite size. Electron Microscopy confirms the morphology, although higher Ce levels hinder a full transformation. X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS) shows the presence of Ce3+/Ce4+ redox pair, promoting electron mobility and Ti‐Ce interactions. Optical and electronic spectroscopy reveals that Ce loading reduces the bandgap from 3.20 to 2.74 eV, extending light absorption into the visible range, thus enhancing the photocatalytic activity. The best sample, CeTNOh0.35, achieved 83% degradation of ciprofloxacin after 360 minutes under solar irradiation, with poor adsorption in the dark period. Higher Ce loadings negatively affect photoactivity by partially covering titania active sites. Reusability tests confirm the stability and efficiency of CeTNOh0.35 over three cycles, highlighting the importance of octahedral morphology in Ce‐containing systems to boost the final photoactivity for water remediation.
Enhanced‐Resolution Learning‐Based Direction of Arrival Estimation by Programmable Metasurface
Authors: Meftah Nawel , Ratni Badreddine , El Korso Mohammed Nabil , Burokur Shah Nawaz
Published: September 2024

Due to its growing importance and wide range of applications, direction‐of‐arrival (DOA) estimation has become a major research topic, particularly in the field of communication systems. While traditional DOA estimation methods rely on antenna arrays and complex algorithms, recent progress achieved in the design and implementation of metasurfaces has proved their effectiveness as promising alternatives. This study presents a distinct approach for DOA estimation that combines the use of a programmable metasurface with deep learning. The programmable metasurface together with a radio‐frequency power detector placed at the focal point, acts as a parabolic reflector antenna with an adjustable pointing direction, which scans the azimuth plane in 5° increments to receive the power level of incoming signals. The collected data is then fed into a pre‐trained multilayer neural network to enable DOA estimation with a resolution of lower than 1° without requiring fine‐tuning of the scanning procedure. This approach ensures accurate and fast estimations, paving the way for advanced solutions in detection and localization for various applications.
Self‐Powered Cs3Bi2I9/ZnO Heterojunction Photodetector with Dual‐Band Photoresponse
Authors: Ouyang Weixin
Published: September 2024

Cs3Bi2I9/ZnO heterostructures are constructed by the growth of Cs3Bi2I9 layer onto the spin‐coated ZnO films by a modified antisolvent recrystallization method, a series of Cs3Bi2I9/ZnO heterojunction photodetectors (PDs) with varied growth times of Cs3Bi2I9 layer are fabricated. The construction of Cs3Bi2I9/ZnO heterojunction contributes to their improved photoelectric performance compared to ZnO‐based PD, and the Cs3Bi2I9 layer thickness plays an important role in tuning the photoelectric performance of these PDs. At 405 nm and 0 V bias, the optimized 6‐Cs3Bi2I9/ZnO PD generates a high photocurrent of −3.03 µA, a medium on/off ratio of 144.3, and a short response time of 16.4 ms/16.8 ms. It also exhibits superior dual‐band self‐powered photoresponse with two responsivity and detectivity peaks at 380 nm in the UV region and at 430 nm in the visible light region. At 380 nm, this PD presents the highest responsivity of 33.2 mA W−1 and detectivity of 1.07 × 1010 Jones. It is believed that the optimized growth of the Cs3Bi2I9 layer generates a depletion layer with suitable thickness near the interface, and the as‐promoted charge‐carrier separation and transport result in improved self‐powered properties. The rational construction of perovskite‐based heterojunction has proved as an efficient way to achieve self‐powered photodetection.
Tailoring MnO2 Cathode Interface via Organic–Inorganic Hybridization Engineering for Ultra‐Stable Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ding Yaxi , Cai Chun , Ma Longtao , Wang Jiahong , Mercer Michael Peter , Liu Jun , Kramer Denis , Yu Xuefeng , Xue Dongfeng , Zhi Chunyi , Peng Chao
Published: September 2024

Manganese (Mn)‐based aqueous zinc ion batteries show great promise for large‐scale energy storage due to their high capacity, environmental friendliness, and low cost. However, they suffer from the severe capacity decay associated with the dissolution of Mn from the cathode/electrolyte interface. In this study, theoretical modeling inspires that the amino acid molecule, isoleucine (Ile), can be an ideal surface coating material for α‐MnO2 to stabilize the surface Mn lattice and mitigate Mn dissolution, thereby enhancing cycling stability. Furthermore, the coated Ile molecular layers can accumulate Zn2+ ions from the electrolyte and promote those ions’ transport to the α‐MnO2 cathode while prohibiting H2O from accessing the α‐MnO2 surface, reducing the surface erosion. The compact organic–inorganic interface is experimentally synthesized for α‐MnO2 utilizing Ile that shows homogeneous distribution on the well‐defined Ile‐α‐MnO2 nanorod electrodes. The fabricated aqueous zinc‐ion battery exhibits a high specific capacity (332.8 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1) and excellent cycling stability (85% after 2000 cycles at 1 A g−1) as well as good inhibition toward Mn2+ dissolution, surpassing most reported cathode materials. This organic–inorganic hybrid interface design provides a new, simple avenue for developing high‐performance and low‐cost Mn‐based aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs).
Atomic Printing Strategy Achieves Precise Anchoring of Dual‐Copper Atoms on C2N Structure for Efficient CO2 Reduction to Ethylene
Authors: Sun Zhiyi , Luo Xuan , Shang Huishan , Wang Ziding , Zhang Liang , Chen Wenxing
Published: September 2024

Isolated metal sites catalysts (IMSCs) play crucial role in electrochemical CO2 reduction, with potential industrial applications. However, tunable synthesis strategies for IMSCs are limited. Herein, we present an atomic printing strategy that draws inspiration from the ancient Chinese “movable‐type printing technology”. Selecting customizable combinations of metal atoms as metal precursors from an extensive binuclear metal library. A series of dual‐atom catalysts were prepared by utilizing the edge nitrogen atoms in the C2N cavity as anchoring “pincers” to capture metal atoms. To prove utility, the dual atom catalyst Cu2‐C2N is investigated as electrocatalytic CO2RR catalyst. The synergistic interaction of dual Cu atoms promotes C−C coupling and guarantees FEC2+ (90.8 %) and FEC2H4. (71.7 %) at −1.10 V vs RHE. DFT calculations revealed the Cu2 site would be subtly flipped during CO2RR for enhancing *CO adsorption and dimerization. We validate that atomic printing strategies are applicable to wide range of metal combinations, representing a significant advancement in the development of IMSCs.
Eine hochwertige photoschaltbare Sonde, die selektiv und wirksam den Transkriptionsfaktor RORγ moduliert
Authors: Reynders Martin , Willems Sabine , Marschner Julian A. , Wein Thomas , Merk Daniel , Thorn‐Seshold Oliver
Published: September 2024

Der Retinsäure‐Rezeptor‐verwandte Waisen‐Rezeptor γ (RORγ) ist ein nuklearer Hormonrezeptor mit vielfältigen biologischen Funktionen in der Regulation der zirkadianen Uhr, bei Entzündungen und in der Immunität. Seine zyklisch‐zeitliche Rolle bei zirkadianen Rhythmen und seine zellspezifische Aktivität im Immunsystem machen ihn zu einer interessanten Zielstruktur für die räumlich und zeitlich lokalisierte Pharmakologie. Um Werkzeuge zu entwickeln, mit denen die RORγ‐Biologie mit angemessener räumlicher und zeitlicher Auflösung untersucht werden kann, haben wir durch Einbau von Azobenzol‐Photoschaltern in Liganden‐Konsensstrukturen lichtabhängige inverse RORγ‐Agonisten entwickelt. Strukturoptimierungen führten zu photoschaltbaren RORγ‐Inhibitoren, die ein hohes Maß an Licht‐kontrollierter Aktivität mit bemerkenswerter On‐Target‐Potenz und hervorragender Selektivität gegenüber verwandten Rezeptoren kombinieren. Diese auf dem Gebiet der Photopharmakologie seltene Qualität zeichnet sie als hochwertige photoschaltbare Sonden aus, die nun als hochpräzise Werkzeuge zur Untersuchung der räumlichen und dynamischen Feinheiten der RORγ‐Wirkung bei der Signalübertragung und bei entzündlichen Erkrankungen dienen können.
Unprecedented Photocatalytic Hydrogen Peroxide Production via Covalent Triazine Frameworks Constructed from Fused Building Blocks
Authors: Sun Ruixue , Yang Xiaoju , Hu Xunliang , Guo Yantong , Zhang Yaqin , Shu Chang , Yang Xuan , Gao Hui , Wang Xiaoyan , Hussain Irshad , Tan Bien
Published: September 2024

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have garnered attention for their potential in photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production. However, their photocatalytic efficiency is impeded by insufficient exciton dissociation and charge carrier transport. Constructing COFs with superior planarity is an effective way to enhance the π‐conjugation degree and facilitate electron‐hole separation. Nonetheless, the conventional linear linkers of COFs inevitably introduce torsional strain that disrupts coplanarity. Herein, we address this issue by introducing inherently coplanar triazine rings as linkers and fused building blocks as monomers to create covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs) with superior coplanarity. Both experimental and theoretical calculations confirm that CTFs constructed from fused building blocks significantly enhance the electron‐hole separation efficiency and improve the photocatalytic performance, compared to the CTFs constructed with non‐fused building blocks. The frontier molecular orbitals and electrostatic potentials (ESP) revealed that the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is preferentially facilitated by the triazine rings, with the water oxidation reaction (WOR) likely occurring at the thiophene‐containing moiety. Remarkably, CTF‐BTT achieved an exceptional H2O2 production rate of 74956 μmol g−1 h−1 when employing 10 % benzyl alcohol (V/V) as a sacrificial agent in an O2‐saturated atmosphere, surpassing existing photocatalysts by nearly an order of magnitude. Our findings provide valuable insights for designing highly coplanar polymer‐based photocatalysts that enhance the solar‐to‐chemical energy conversion process.
Solvent Minimized Synthesis of Amides by Reactive Extrusion
Authors: Bolt Robert R. A. , Smallman Harry R. , Leitch Jamie A. , Bluck Gavin W. , Barreteau Fabien , Iosub Andrei V. , Constable David , Dapremont Olivier , Richardson Paul , Browne Duncan L.
Published: September 2024

Herein, we report on the translation of a small scale ball‐milled amidation protocol into a large scale continuous reactive extrusion process. Critical components to the successful translation were: a) understanding how the different operating parameters of a twin‐screw extruder should be harnessed to control prolonged continuous operation, and b) consideration of the physical form of the input materials. The amidation reaction is applied to 36 amides spanning a variety of physical form combinations (liquid‐liquid, solid–liquid and solid‐solid). Following this learning process, we have developed an understanding for the translation of each physical form combination and demonstrated a 7‐hour reactive extrusion process for the synthesis of an amide on 500 gram scale (1.3 mols of product).