bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel AIE‐Active Polyarylethersulfone Polymers Incorporating Tetraphenylethene for Enhanced Fluorescence
Authors: Luo Yuchao , Li Xiang , Zhang Xinze , Ren Haoxuan , Shi Haotian , Yang Yanchao , Liu Chunbao , Xu Bin , Tian Wenjing , Wang Guibin
Published: January 2025

Aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) materials have gained significant attention for their unique fluorescence enhancement in the aggregated state. However, combining rigid polymers with AIE molecules to enhance luminescent properties remains to be investigated. In this work, two novel AIE‐active polyarylethersulfone (PAES) derivatives are synthesized by incorporating tetraphenylethene (TPE) into either the side chain or main chain of PAES, resulting in side‐chain polyarylethersulfone‐tetraphenylethene (PAES‐TPE) and main‐chain polyarylethersulfone‐tetraphenylethene (m‐PAES‐TPE), respectively. These derivatives are designed to investigate the influence of the rigid polymer backbone on the AIE properties of TPE. The incorporation of TPE into PAES resulted in a notable redshift in fluorescence emission compared to pure TPE. Notably, m‐PAES‐TPE50%, a polymer with 50% molar content of TPE, exhibited a fluorescence quantum yield to 57.43%, more than twice that of TPE powder. Thermal analysis showed that both PAES‐TPE and m‐PAES‐TPE have excellent thermal stability and temperature‐dependent fluorescence. Additionally, these materials are processed into hydrophobic nanoparticles, and in vitro experiments demonstrated good fluorescence properties and biocompatibility for cancer cell bioimaging. This work highlights the potential of rigid AIE‐active PAES derivatives for advanced bioimaging applications.
Photoswitchable Branched Polyurethanes Based on Hexaarylbiimidazole for Photolithography
Authors: Ren Ying‐Yi , Luo Peng‐Fei , Huang Jun‐Dan , Li Hong‐Qiang , Wu Mei , Li Chong , Xiang Shi‐Li , Zhu Ming‐Qiang
Published: January 2025

Hexaarylbiimidazole (HABI) molecules have awakened a broad interest in photo‐processing, super‐resolution imaging, photoinduced self‐healing materials, and photomechanical hydrogels due to their excellent photosensitivity and photo‐induced cleavage properties. In this work, a novel photoswitchable branched polyurethanes (BPU), which are synthesized by copolymerizing HABI with glycerol, isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), and polyethylene glycol (PEG400), is designed. 7‐Diethylamino‐4‐methylcoumarin (DMCO) is introduced as a radical quencher, which can not only avoid the hydroxyl interfering from conventional radical scavengers during the polymerization process but also promote efficient quenching of TPIR radicals. By optimizing the DMCO concentration, and HABI content, high‐quality lithographic patterns are achieved with high film retention at low exposure doses. The branched structure exhibits superior photosensitivity and solubility after exposure compared to previous crosslinked systems. This work provides HABI‐based branched polyurethane, which acts as one of the potential candidates for UV‐positive photoresists.
Comparative image quality and dosimetric performance of two generations of dedicated breast CT systems
Authors: Pautasso Juan J. , Van Speybroeck Camille D. E. , Michielsen Koen , Sechopoulos Ioannis
Published: January 2025

Background

Dedicated breast computed tomography (bCT) systems offer detailed imaging for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. As new bCT generations are developed, it is important to evaluate their imaging performance and dose efficiency to understand differences over previous models.

Purpose

To characterize the imaging performance and dose efficiency of a second‐generation (GEN2) bCT system and compare them to those of a first‐generation (GEN1) system.

Methods

The imaging performance was evaluated through key metrics: modulation transfer function (MTF), noise power spectrum (NPS), and detective quantum efficiency (DQE) in the projection domain. In the image domain, contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), and the visibility of calcifications were analyzed using a quality control (QC) phantom with masses and calcification clusters. Air kerma and tube output were measured and mean glandular dose (MGD) estimated for different phantom sizes for dosimetric characterization of the acquisition protocols set by the automatic exposure control (AEC).

Results

GEN2 outperformed GEN1 at higher spatial frequencies, with 57% of the MTF observed at 1 cycles/mm compared to 43% for GEN1. For a 2 mm diameter mass, GEN2 showed 60% higher CNR and 63% higher SNR. However, for larger masses, GEN1 outperformed GEN2, with CNR and SNR values higher by 12% to 44% and 14% to 43%, respectively. GEN2 also achieves higher DQE across the frequency spectrum, with 45% at 1 cycle/mm, compared to GEN1's 20%. Regarding calcifications in the QC phantom, the 320 µm calcifications resulted in distinct full‐width‐at‐half‐maxima (FWHM ± SD), with 897 ± 58 µm for GEN1 and 811 ± 127 µm for GEN2, with a p‐value of 0.19. For 290 µm calcifications, GEN1's FWHM was 866 ± 129 µm, while GEN2's was narrower at 665 ± 57 µm, with a p‐value of 0.01. The tube output was higher for GEN1 (45.2 mGy/mAs) compared to GEN2 (31.5 mGy/mAs). Additionally, GEN2 resulted in 8% lower MGD values compared to GEN1.

Conclusion

While GEN1 offers better CNR and SNR for larger masses, GEN2 provides superior resolution for calcifications, better MTF, improved DQE, and lower MGD at AEC‐determined settings.
Eye Tracking to Determine Noticeability of Pediatric Facial Scar Characteristics to Adult Observers
Authors: Weykamp Lydia , Lunos Scott , Ebert Bridget , Roby Brianne Barnett , Chinnadurai Sivakumar
Published: January 2025

Objective

Determine objectively noticeable features of pediatric facial scars using eye‐tracking software and explore how skin tone impacts scar perception.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis.

Setting

Tertiary care pediatric hospital.

Methods

Ninety‐seven naïve adult participants viewed 12 randomized photos using an eye‐tracking device. Photos of 4 children with different Fitzpatrick (FP) tones were used to digitally create 3 images each: a scarless control, a hypertrophic scar, and a dyspigmented scar. Scar size and location were consistent. Gaze metrics were compared between skin tones and scar types.

Results

Hypertrophic and dyspigmented scars had greater total fixation duration and fixation count than controls across all skin tones (P < .01). The dyspigmented scar of the FP2 child had greater total fixation duration (P = .01) and fixation count (P = .04) than the hypertrophic scar. The dyspigmented scar of the FP2 child had greater total fixation duration and fixation count than the dyspigmented scars of the FP6 and FP4 children (P < .01). The hypertrophic scar of the FP1 child had a longer total fixation duration than the hypertrophic scar of the FP6 child (P = .04). There were lower times to first fixation for both hypertrophic and dyspigmented scars in the FP1, FP4, and FP6 children (P < .04), and the dyspigmented scar in the FP2 child (P = .049).

Conclusion

Dyspigmented and hyperpigmented scars were viewed differently on children's faces with various skin tones. This highlights the importance of evaluating and accounting for both scar type and skin tone when counseling patients and families who experience facial scarring.
Hybrid structure design of expanded steel mesh to enhance the tensile performance of fiber‐reinforced composites
Authors: Sadoun A. M. , Ghandourah Emad , Abdelfattah Waleed Mohammed , Megahed M. , Seif Amr
Published: January 2025

Metal hybrid structures with fiber‐reinforced composites optimize strength, weight, toughness, and durability while minimizing cracks and retaining structural integrity. The present investigation evaluates the tensile performance of hybrid composites manufactured from expanded steel wire meshes and fiber‐reinforced epoxy versus pure glass fiber (GE). Hybrid specimens were fabricated with steel mesh of varying pattern sizes inserted at two different positions within the composites and exposed to two loading layouts. The results indicated that replacing GE layers with steel mesh decreased specimen density by 6.25% while increasing ductility and energy absorption. Medium‐size mesh provided the most effective performance, enhancing tensile strength, peak load, energy absorption, and stiffness by an average of 18.9% over other sizes. The outer layer configuration was superior to the inner layer, improving peak strength, failure strain, stiffness, and absorbed energy by up to 25.6%. Moreover, vertical loading boosted overall performance by an average of 28.5% compared with horizontal loading. The SO2 configuration was selected via Grey Relational Analysis to be the most effective arrangement.

Highlights

Insight into the impact of using expanded steel mesh in GE composites.

Analyzing the effect of mesh size and laminating order on tensile performance.

Effect of loading layouts on the overall performance of the hybrid composites.

Examining damage morphologies to assess the interlayers interaction.

Superior results in terms of peak load, failure strain, and toughness.
Study on Quality Evaluation of Tibetan Dracocephali tangutici Herba Based on DNA Barcode and HPLC Fingerprinting
Authors: Zhuoma Dawa , Tingyin Duan , Jun Lan , Pei Qun , Duoji Cidan , Feng Du , Fang Deng , Yan Zhou
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The quality of 30 batches of the Tibetan Dracocephali tangutici Herba was evaluated using HPLC fingerprinting and DNA sequences.

Methods

Botanical identification of 30 batches of D. tangutici herba was conducted using the DNA barcoding approach, specifically analyzing the ITS and rbcL sequences. HPLC fingerprints of Tibetan Dracocephali tangutici Herba were established. The quality of 30 batches of D. tangutici herba was comprehensively evaluated using principal component analysis (PCA), orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA), and entropy weighting method (EWM) combined with grey relation analysis (GRA).

Results

The botanical provenance of all 30 batches of herbs was proven to be Dracocephali tangutici Maxim. using DNA barcoding techniques, namely, ITS sequence and rbcL sequence testing. A total of 17 common peaks were chosen from the HPLC fingerprinting analysis. Among these, three peaks were recognized by comparing them with three reference standards: chlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, and salvianolic acid B. The similarity scores of the 30 batches of D. tangutici herba varied between 0.846 and 0.991. The 30 batches of samples were categorized into two groups using PCA. The findings from OPLS‐DA indicated that chlorogenic acid and four flavonoids could be the crucial components for evaluating the quality of D. tangutici herba. Additionally, the combined evaluation results of EWM and GRA suggested that the quality of the 30 batches of samples varied significantly.

Conclusion

The results of this study can provide a reference basis for the development of quality standards for D. tangutici herba in Tibet.
Exploring the Moderating Roles of Family‐Work Conflict in the Relationship Between Work‐Family Conflict and Teacher Well‐Being
Authors: Uslukaya Alper , Demirtaş Zülfü , Alanoglu Muslim , Zincirli Muhammed
Published: January 2025

Teachers well‐being has a significant influence on their quality of life, as well as on students' emotions, behaviors, and cognitions. Although there is evidence of a negative relationship between teachers' experience of work‐family conflict (WFC) and family‐work conflict (FWC) with their well‐being, we have no information on how the interaction of these two experiences relates to teacher well‐being. Therefore, this study aims to examine the relationships between the interaction of WFC and FWC and teacher burnout and job engagement. The participants included 529 teachers from the Elazığ provincial center in Türkiye. According to the results of the structural equation modeling using Bayesian estimation, the positive relationship between WFC and burnout, as well as the negative relationship with work engagement, is stronger under high FWC conditions but significantly weakens under low FWC conditions. Therefore, we conclude that WFC and FWC interact to affect teacher well‐being more negatively. The current study concludes with several theoretical and practical implications.
Basic Composition and Synthesis Process and Representative Molecule of the Branched Polyethyleneimines With Low Molecular Weight
Authors: Li Pandeng , Lu Gen , Liu Tingting , Shu Tong , Yu Tianyi , Fu Chunhua , Yu Longjiang
Published: January 2025

Branched polyethyleneimines (B‐PEIs) have been widely used in industries and researches, such as the papermaking, water treatment, and enzyme immobilization. However, they exhibit a complex composition, leading to ambiguity in understanding the B‐PEIs' synthetic process and relevant influencing factors. Additionally, no representative molecule of B‐PEIs has been identified, leading to subjective selections when studying structure–performance relationships. This study focused on three commercially low‐molecular‐weight B‐PEIs: 300, 600, and 1800. It identified that they primarily consisted of C, H, and N elements in the form of methylene and primary, secondary, and tertiary amine groups. The ratios of amine groups were also revealed, offering guidance for application. Moreover, the types of polymerization degrees and their proportions were determined, with the free ends identified as primary amino groups. Based on these, this study proposed synthetic processes and potential influencing factors. This provided valuable insights into the synthesis of B‐PEIs with varying compositions and properties. Furthermore, the stability of over 527 potential molecular structures was calculated. By weighing above features, the representative model molecules used to analyze B‐PEIs' structure–performance relationships was identified. These results had significant implications for the synthesis, application, and functional analysis of B‐PEIs.
Perfluoropolyether Segmented Polybutadiene Urethanes With Improved Dispersion of Silica Particles: A Surrogate Methodology for Additive Manufacturing of Composite Binders
Authors: Shin Tyler M. , Weeks Nathan J. , Budy Stephen M. , Iacono Scott T.
Published: January 2025

Fluorinated hydroxy‐terminated polybutadiene (F‐HTPB) urethane binders were prepared by the incorporation of a perfluoropolyether (PFPE) diol (Fluorolink E10H (FL)) as a terpolymer system. Rheology measurements at 25°C showed a steady decrease in viscosity with increased cure rates at the gelation time with increasing molar loadings of FL. The optimized F‐HTPB urethane binder was then formulated with fluorinated silica particles (F‐SP) that were successfully modified with a monolayer of perfluoropolyether bound carboxylic acids using Krytox 157 FSH. Loadings up to 20 wt% F‐SPs were prepared with no phase separation demonstrating the interfacial compatibility of the fluorine‐rich PFPE domains of the binder and the silica particle surface while lowering the viscosity at full cure. These rheology measurements suggest the fluorinated binder composite formulations would advance their application as practical drop‐in feed stocks for reactive in situ additive manufacturing techniques at room temperature. This work also includes comprehensive analysis of the particles and composite formulations to include infrared spectroscopy, surface wettability measurements, calorimetry, and thermal gravimetric decomposition analysis.
Chemical Insights Into Nitrogen Oxidation Via Surface Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma Driven By Different Power Supplies
Authors: Li Tianyu , Gao Yuting , Fan Jieping , Wang Xiangyu , Feng Yue , Qu Zhongping , Gan Dingwei , Sun Jing , Liu Dingxin , Tu Xin , Zhou Renwu
Published: January 2025

Discharge modes of surface dielectric barrier discharge are influenced by various factors, with its underlying mechanisms still unclear. This study explores the effects of power input and N2/O2 ratios on NOx yield and selectivity using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and analyzes the spatiotemporal evolution of discharges under alternating current (AC) and pulsed power sources. Results show that NO2 selectivity is higher under pulsed power compared to AC, with a peak of 56.2% at 30% N2 content. Increased power enhances NO2 selectivity to 49.6% in the pulsed‐driven system, while no significant change is observed with AC. The lower rotational temperature in pulsed power systems facilitates the O generation for further NO oxidation. These findings may provide new chemical insights into plasma‐enabled nitrogen oxidation.
Clinical Sensitivity and Specificity of the PROSTest in an American Cohort
Authors: Rahbar Kambiz , Kidd Mark , Prasad Vikas , David Rosin R. , Drozdov Ignat , Halim Abdel
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in the United States, following skin cancer, with an incidence rate of 112.7 per 100,000 men per year. The need for a reliable, non‐invasive diagnostic tool for early PCa detection (screening, biochemical residual disease) remains unmet due to the limitations of PSA testing, which often leads to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. The PROSTest is a novel, blood‐based qPCR assay that assesses gene expression to diagnose PCa and predict patient outcomes to different treatments. This study aimed to validate the sensitivity and specificity of the PROSTest in a diverse cohort of US‐based PCa patients compared to healthy controls.

Materials and Methods

This prospective study included 143 PCa patients and 92 healthy controls. Blood samples were collected, and the PROSTest was conducted following RNA isolation and cDNA production, using a predefined 27‐gene algorithm to provide a binary output. The assay's sensitivity and specificity were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, with a 50% score cut‐off distinguishing PCa from non‐PCa patients. Analytical reproducibility was assessed with intra‐ and inter‐assay comparisons of Ct values and PROSTest scores.

Results

The PROSTest demonstrated a sensitivity of 94% (95% CI 89–98%) and a specificity of 88% (95% CI 80–94%) in distinguishing PCa patients from controls, with an area under the ROC curve (AUROC) of 0.97. The false positive rate among controls was 12%. Intra‐ and inter‐assay reproducibility was confirmed with no significant differences in Ct values or PROSTest scores between operators or assays. PROSTest scores were significantly higher in PCa patients compared to controls and in those undergoing treatment versus untreated patients.

Conclusion

This validation study confirms the high sensitivity and specificity of the PROSTest in detecting PCa in a diverse USA cohort. The assay's robustness and reproducibility support its potential as a reliable diagnostic tool for PCa detection and monitoring. Further studies are warranted to evaluate its utility across broader populations and treatment settings.
Vera: A stochastic, polydisperse scheme for diagnosing fog and visibility
Authors: Claxton Bernard
Published: January 2025

Vera is a diagnostic visibility parametrisation designed to produce probabilistic output from an operational forecast model to provide guidance as to the likelihood of fog formation. The scheme is an extension of an existing visibility diagnostic, utilising very similar physics to hydrate a dry aerosol population. The three major improvements implemented by Vera are the expansion from monodisperse aerosol to polydisperse aerosol, the use of stochastic, synthethic noise to estimate the uncertainty in the computed visibility, and upgrading from geometric to Mie scattering to diagnose the aerosol scattering coefficient. Vera has been implemented in the Met Office's Unified Model.
Statistical Inference for Generalized Half‐Normal Model Under Step‐Stress Accelerated Life Test in the Presence of Hybrid Censoring
Authors: Yadav Priya , Kumar Devendra , Singh Sukhdev
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we consider the problem of estimating the unknown parameters of a generalized half‐normal (GHN) distribution when lifetime data are observed from accelerated life test (ALT) experiments in the presence of hybrid censoring. To relate the lifetime of products under different stress levels, we make use of a cumulative exposure model (CEM), and obtain maximum likelihood estimates using a numerical approach and stochastic expectation–maximization (SEM) algorithm. We further obtain the expected Fisher information matrix, and use it to compute associated confidence interval estimates for the unknown parameters of the distribution. The expected Fisher information matrix is also used to select the optimal time to conduct an experiment based on three considered optimality criteria. Next, we consider independent and conditional gamma priors and obtain the associated posterior distributions for the unknown parameters. We then make use of samples generated from the posterior distributions using importance sampling and the MH algorithm to compute the Bayesian estimates under the squared error loss function. Furthermore, the highest associated posterior density interval estimates are also computed. Finally, we conduct a simulation study to evaluate the efficiency of the suggested approaches in various situations and analyze a real data set for illustration purposes.
Effective and Robust Generation of Deterministic Magnon Schrödinger Cat States in the Hybrid System
Authors: Wang Yu , Xia Yan , Kang Yi‐Hao
Published: January 2025

A scheme is proposed for effective and robust generation of magnon Schrödinger cat states in the hybrid optomagnonical system. The Schrödinger cat states can be generated from the vacuum states and the physical model is easy to be implemented. It is worth noting that the effective normalized coupling strength of the optomagnonical system is able to reach strong coupling regime, which leads to a fast evolution process. Thus, the high fidelity and fast preparation of Schrödinger cat states can be achieved. Besides, the numerical simulations show that the scheme is robust against the decay caused by environment and the additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN). It is the hope that the scheme may open a new path to the fast generation of Schrödinger cat states in the hybrid system.
Immune cell alterations in a pristane‐induced lupus model in C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Zhou Yali , Yang Binbin , Long Haojun , Zhu Qinghuan , Wu Yongzhuo , Liu Yingying , Yuan Limei , Cao Wenting , Huang Xinwei , Deng Danqi
Published: January 2025

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by immune‐mediated inflammation affecting multiple organs and systems. The aim of this study was to establish and validate a pristane‐induced SLE model in C57BL/6J mice and analyze immune cell alterations.

Methods

Six‐week‐old female C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 6 per group). The pristane group received a single 0.5 mL intraperitoneal injection of pristane, whereas the control group received a single intraperitoneal injection of 0.5 mL saline. Urine samples were collected before injection and at 2, 4, and 6 months after injection to monitor urinary protein levels. Six months postinjection, the mice were euthanized, and serum, kidney, and spleen tissues were collected. Serum antinuclear antibody (ANA), double‐stranded DNA(dsDNA), and inflammatory cytokine levels (interleukin [IL]‐1β, IL‐6, tumor necrosis factor‐α) were quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Histological alterations in kidney tissues were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid‐Schiff, Masson, and silver staining, in addition to direct immunofluorescence for immunoglobulin G and complement component 3. Flow cytometry was used to assess immune cell alterations in the spleen.

Results

Following the intraperitoneal injection of pristane, the mice exhibited a gradual increase in spleen size, body weight, and urinary protein levels. Serum levels of ANA, dsDNA, and inflammatory cytokines were elevated to varying degrees (p < 0.05). Histological analysis of the kidney sections revealed characteristic nephritic alterations, including glomerular swelling and lymphocyte infiltration. In the spleen, T cell numbers decreased, whereas the proportion of myeloid cells significantly increased, particularly monocytes, neutrophils, and macrophages (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Pristane successfully induced a SLE model in C57BL/6J mice, characterized by nephritic injury and significant alterations in immune cell populations.
Emerging Business Model Archetypes in the Circular Economy: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Woldeyes Tirufat Dejene , Muffatto Moreno , Ferrati Francesco
Published: January 2025

In the circular economy, companies design their business models to align with circular principles and explore pathways for sustainable value creation. However, research on the circular economy business model (CEBM) is in its infancy, and existing business models remain incomplete and lack comprehensiveness, failing to encompass all emerging business models, and lack explicit criteria and scientific procedures. Additionally, terminological inconsistencies persist, leading to ambiguity in defining circular strategies and their interconnections. In response to this challenge, our study conducted a rigorous review of 106 scholarly articles on circular business models. Our primary objective was to enhance the understanding of CEBMs with an in‐depth review of these models from literature and employ an integrated framework to craft our unique categorization of CEBMs by thoroughly exploring the research purposes, categorization models, and CEBM archetypes outlined in the existing body of literature. Our findings show that research within this field remains to be theoretical. First, the primary aim of studies focuses on developing conceptual frameworks and models, creating supporting tools and methods, and analyzing drivers, enablers, and challenges. Second, among the most referenced frameworks in literature are those developed by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and Accenture, which serve as foundational tools for practitioners. Third, studies of CEBM concentrate on closing the resource loop of a product life cycle. Future research should prioritize overlooked circular strategies, propose robust classification models, and address gaps in product‐centric and resource‐efficient business practice.
‘Crown‐Roots’ Structure Formed by Lignin‐Containing Cellulose Nanofibers for All‐Natural, Biorenewable Barrier Material
Authors: Gu Xunhong , Wang Wanhua , Kang Jinyu , Dong Xinrui , Guan Peilin , Li Bo
Published: January 2025

Degradable and cost‐effective cellulose fiber‐based materials are ideal substitutes for traditional plastics. However, organic additives used to enhance water and oil resistance often contain toxic substances that may migrate into food, posing health risks. In this study, inspired by tree structures, lignin‐containing cellulose nanofibers (LCNFs) are used to form a “crown‐roots” structure to enhance the water, oil, and gas resistance, as well as mechanical performance of composites. Mechanically fibrillated LCNFs (M‐LCNFs), representing the tree roots, are blended with bamboo pulp and bagasse pulp to prepare cellulose fiber substrate. LCNFs films, representing the crown, are produced via a sol–gel method to improve the substrate's barrier properties. The LCNFs gel, representing the trunk, bonds the films to the substrate via hydrogen bond. The resulting material shows exceptional behaviors including 1) excellent water and oil resistance (Cobb value and WVTR decreased by 75.27% and 16.43% compared to the substrate, with a maximum kit value of 12), 2) outstanding mechanical performance (tensile index is 103.19 N·m g−1), and 3) good natural degradability. This material holds significant potential for industries with high safety standards, such as food, cosmetics, and medicine.
High‐Performance Ultraviolet Photodetector Based on the Vertical GaSe/GaN Heterojunction
Authors: Wang Yujing , Chen Jiawei , Hu Tiangui , Huang Yuqing , Zhu Wenkai , Li Weihao , Hu Yin , Wei Zhongming , Fan Zhongchao , Zhao Lixia , Wang Kaiyou
Published: January 2025

Ultraviolet light detection is essential for environmental monitoring, hazard alerting, and optical communication. Here, a vertical UV photodetector is proposed and demonstrated by stacking the freestanding GaN‐film on the 2D GaSe flake. Benefits from the vertical heterostructure and built‐in electric field, the photodetector exhibits excellent photoresponse properties, including a high responsivity of 1.38 × 105 A/W and a high specific detectivity of 1.40 × 1016 Jones under 362 nm wavelength illumination. Additionally, the device demonstrates fast rise and decay time of 18.0 and 21.8 µs, respectively. This work paves the way for design and realization of the high‐performance GaN‐based photodetectors.
Stimuli‐Responsive Nano Drug Delivery Systems for the Treatment of Neurological Diseases
Authors: Dai Xi‐jian , Li Wen‐Jia , Xie Dong‐Dong , Liu Bi‐xia , Gong Lianggeng , Han Hai‐Hao
Published: January 2025

Nanomaterials with unparalleled physical and chemical attributes have become a cornerstone in the field of nanomedicine delivery. These materials can be engineered into various functionalized nanocarriers, which have become the focus of research. Stimulus‐responsive nanodrug delivery systems (SRDDS) stand out as a sophisticated class of nanocarriers that can release drugs in response to environmental cues. Due to the complex pathogenesis and the multifaceted pathological environment of the nervous system, developing accurate and effective drug therapy with low side‐effects is a formidable task. In recent years, SRDDS have been widely used in the treatment of neurological diseases. By customizing SRDDS to align with the specific microenvironment of the nervous system tissues or external stimulation, the efficacy of drug delivery can be enhanced. This review provides an in‐depth look at the characteristics of the microenvironment of neurological diseases and highlights case studies of SRDDS tailored to treat these disorders based on the unique stimulation criteria of nervous system tissues or external triggers. Additionally, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the progress and future prospects of SRDDS technology in the treatment of neurological diseases, providing valuable guidance for its transition from fundamental research to clinical application.
Advances on Defect Engineering of Niobium Pentoxide for Electrochemical Energy Storage
Authors: She Liaona , Liu Dongye , Zhao Yin , Dong Linyao , Wu Zhijun , Xue Xu , Tian Ye , Du Wubin , Zheng Chao , He Shengnan , Zhang Mingchang , Liu Yanxia , Gan Jiantuo , Li Chenchen , Gao Yong , Qi Fulai , Ren Xiangrong , Jiang Yinzhu , Yang Yaxiong , Gao Mingxia , Pan Hongge
Published: January 2025

The reasonable design of advanced anode materials for electrochemical energy storage (EES) devices is crucial in expediting the progress of renewable energy technologies. Nb2O5 has attracted increasing research attention as an anode candidate. Defect engineering is regarded as a feasible approach to modulate the local atomic configurations within Nb2O5. Therefore, introducing defects into Nb2O5 is considered to be a promising way to enhance electrochemical performance. However, there is no systematic review on the defect engineering of Nb2O5 for the energy storage process. This review systematically analyzes first the crystal structures and energy storage mechanisms of Nb2O5. Subsequently, a systematical summary of the latest advances in defect engineering of Nb2O5 for EES devices is presented, mainly focusing on vacancy modulation, ion doping, planar defects, introducing porosity, and amorphization. Of particular note is the effects of defect engineering on Nb2O5: improving electronic conductivity, accelerating ion diffusion, maintaining structural stability, increasing active storage sites. The review further summarizes diverse methodologies for inducing defects and the commonly used techniques for the defect characterization within Nb2O5. In conclusion, the article proposes current challenges and outlines future development prospects for defect engineering in Nb2O5 to achieve high‐performance EES devices with both high energy and power densities.
Side Reaction Turned Positive: Synchronous OER Manipulating the Electrocatalytic Properties of Anodic Electrodeposited Lead Dioxide
Authors: Guo Hua , Li Xinyuan , Li Mingtao , Yang Liu , Yan Wei , Xu Hao
Published: January 2025

The preparation and modification of porous electrodes are an important component of the new generation electrochemical oxidation technology. Rapid preparation of porous electrodes can be easily achieved by synchronous oxygen bubble electrodeposition. However, according to the reaction mechanism of lead dioxide anodic electrodeposition, there is bound to be a competitive reaction of adsorbed hydroxyl radicals in the oxygen bubble template method, which means that synchronous OER impacts both the surface morphology and potentially the crystalline structure of the metal oxides. Clarifying the comprehensive influence of synchronous OER on the morphology and microstructure of the coating is important. In this work, the electrodeposition process of porous lead dioxide coating is regulated by the way of linear potential increase and realized the rapid preparation of high‐performance porous lead dioxide coating within 40 s. The morphology and microstructure, electrical, and electrochemical properties are characterized, combined with theoretical calculation and orthogonal analysis, to investigate the regulatory mechanism of the rapid growth of the porous lead dioxide by the electric potential. It is demonstrated that synchronous OER confers porous morphology and a large number of defects to the coating in situ, and enhancing the electrocatalytic oxidation performance of the electrode.
Enhancing Interfacial Interactions Through Microwave‐Irradiated Reduction for the Recycling of Photovoltaic Silicon Waste for Lithium Storage
Authors: Zhou Jie , She Chunling , Liu Yan , Li Yawen , Yao Wangbing , Zheng Zhuoyuan , Zhu Yusong
Published: January 2025

The application of micro‐nano size photovoltaic waste silicon (wSi) as an anode material for lithium‐ion battery holds significant practical potential; However, it faces a series of challenges related to the volume expansion of Si during cycling. In this study, a simple, efficient, and eco‐friendly microwave method is proposed for the rapid preparation of graphene‐coated silicon materials (wSi@rGO) in just a few seconds, in which graphene as the stable interface mitigates structural failure caused by significant volume expansion, enhances electron and ion conductivity, inhibits undesirable side reactions between silicon and electrolyte, and promotes the stability of solid electrolyte interface (SEI). Importantly, the instantaneous high temperature generated by microwaves facilitates the formation of interfacial SiC chemical bonds, which strengthen the interaction between Si and graphene, thereby reducing Si delamination. The wSi@rGO anode exhibits remarkable cycling stability, maintaining a specific capacity of 1100 mA h g−1 over 250 cycles. Furthermore, the assembled wSi@rGO//LiFePO4 full battery demonstrates robust performance, retaining a stable capacity of 150 mA h g−1 after 80 cycles at 0.5 C. This research not only demonstrates a straightforward and efficient microwave technique for synthesizing wSi@rGO anode materials, but also offers an environmentally friendly and economical pathway for recycling photovoltaic waste silicon, contributing positively to carbon peaking and carbon neutrality.
A Microwave‐Strengthened Supramolecular Adhesive: from Flexible Pressure Sensitive Bonding to Strong and Muti‐Reusable Hot Melt Bonding
Authors: Li Yuquan , Liu Siyuan , Xu Jiang‐Fei , Zhang Xi
Published: January 2025

A microwave‐strengthened supramolecular adhesive by introducing maleic acid amide bonds into the cross‐linked networks of catechol‐based monomers and iron oxide nanoparticles is reported. Under microwave irradiation, the supramolecular adhesive can be rapidly heated up, causing the transformation from maleic acid amide bonds to maleimide bonds and thus the increase of its cohesive strength. The supramolecular adhesive can flexibly bond substrates like pressure sensitive adhesives during the bonding procedure and shows an adhesion strength of 0.5 MPa toward ceramic. After microwave strengthening, it can strongly bond substrates like hot melt adhesives and shows a dramatically increased adhesion strength of 5.0 MPa, 10 times stronger than the original value. Moreover, the microwave‐strengthened supramolecular adhesive can be reused 3 times with negligible loss in adhesion strength, exhibiting outstanding multiple reusability. By combining both high flexibility and high adhesion strength, it is anticipated that the supramolecular adhesive can be of great potential in cultural relics restoration and microelectronics.
Copper wire electric explosive crushing of large‐size reinforced concrete columns
Authors: Sun Yixuan , Wang Xiaodong , Wang Xinzhi
Published: January 2025

The application of pulse power discharge technology for the demolition of reinforced concrete structures offers several advantages, including energy savings, environmental protection, high construction efficiency, and the potential for recycling building materials. To investigate the effects of this technology on the crushing of large reinforced concrete columns, a finite element model of these columns was developed using ABAQUS software. The columns have dimensions of 600 mm × 600 mm and 700 mm × 700 mm. Two rows of holes with a specific depth were arranged along the length of the column. Simulation tests of copper wire electric explosion in water were conducted within these column holes. This study investigated the effects of the amount of longitudinal reinforcement, transverse stirrups, and concrete strength on the crushing effect. The impact load generated by the underwater electric explosion of copper wire on a concrete column was simulated using the coupled Euler–Lagrange method. For the first time, varying explosive source densities were proposed to represent different discharge energy levels. The concrete cracks induced by the impact load were modeled using a cohesion model, allowing for real‐time measurement of crack width to assess the crushing effect. Simulation results indicate that increasing the longitudinal reinforcement ratio on one side from 0.46% to 0.80% results in an average decrease of 29% in transverse crack width. Furthermore, elevating the volumetric percentages of stirrups from 0.38% to 0.81% leads to an average reduction of 35.6% in longitudinal crack width. The crushing effect of concrete columns diminishes slightly with an increase in concrete strength. Based on the simulation results, mathematical expressions for transverse crack width and longitudinal crack width, as well as key parameters such as longitudinal reinforcement ratio, volumetric percentages of stirrups, and concrete strength, were established. These findings can serve as a reference for the promotion and application of this technology.
STEM Teacher Characteristics and Mobility: Longitudinal Evidence From the American Midwest, 2010 Through 2023
Authors: Lam Chanh B. , Liu Yujia , Anglum J. Cameron , Nguyen Tuan D.
Published: January 2025

This study examines the demographics, qualifications, and turnover of STEM teachers in Kansas and Missouri—two contiguous, predominantly rural states in the Midwestern region of the United States. The existing literature lacks detailed insights regarding U.S. STEM teachers, especially with recent economic and social changes over the COVID‐19 pandemic, and there is particularly limited evidence regarding STEM teachers in the U.S. Midwest. Utilizing large‐scale administrative longitudinal data, we filled part of this gap by documenting the characteristics and turnover patterns of STEM teachers in Kansas and Missouri over a 13‐year period, from 2010 through 2023. Our analysis shows declining trends among young and early‐career STEM teachers, STEM certification, and rising STEM teacher turnover, especially post‐COVID‐19. We found particularly high turnover rates in urban schools and schools with the highest shares of students of color and poverty. We also found numerous factors of STEM teacher turnover, including salary and employment in schools serving high percentages of minoritized and low‐income students, as well as differential turnover patterns among school geographical circumstances. This work is the first comprehensive examination of STEM teachers in Kansas and Missouri. We offer insights into the teacher workforce of the traditionally overlooked U.S. Midwest. Our results suggest important policy implications for sustaining a diverse and qualified STEM teacher workforce in the U.S. amid post‐COVID‐19 social changes, thereby informing decision making at state and national levels that aim to foster equitable access to high‐quality STEM education among students in diverse contexts, while contributing to the U.S.'s long‐term economic growth, sustainability, and the world's advancement of STEM education.
Combined Effect of Nanoparticles of Silver and Silica to HeLa Cells: Synergistic Internalization and Toxicity
Authors: Li Chen‐Si , Liu Jie , Zhang Qiangqiang , Tang Xue‐Rui , Liu Yuan‐Yuan , Cao Aoneng , Wang Haifang
Published: January 2025

The wide range of applications and the enormous production of nanomaterials have raised the possibility that humans may simultaneously contact with various nanomaterials through multiple routes. Although numerous toxicity studies have been conducted on the toxicity of nanomaterials, knowledge of the combined toxicity of nanomaterials remains limited. Herein, the combined toxic effects of the two types of the most widely used nanomaterials, silver and silica, were studied on HeLa cells. In addition, considering there may have possible interplay between nanoparticles of different sizes, two different‐sized silica nanoparticles (SNPs) were used. The results indicate that compared with individual exposure, the combined exposure to 35 nm silver nanoparticles (Ag35) and 40 nm or 120 nm SNPs (SNP40 or SNP120) at individual non‐toxic concentrations causes more severe cytotoxicity, manifested by the ROS overgeneration, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP level, and increased apoptosis/necrosis. The internalized Ag35 and its dissolved Ag ions that are delivered into cells by adsorbing on SNPs are identified as the primary contributors to the combined toxicity. Although the cytotoxicity of the mixed Ag35 and SNP40 is comparable to that of the mixed Ag35 and SNP120, there are noticeable differences in their intracellular contents and their subcellular locations due to size effects. This study provides in‐depth insights into the combined toxicity of inorganic nanoparticles and highlights the importance of the size effect of nanoparticles in their nanotoxicity assessment.
A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis on the Prevalence of Aflatoxin M1 in Dairy Products in Selected Middle East Countries
Authors: Arghavan Bahareh , Kordkatuli Kosar , Mardani Helia , Jafari Ali
Published: January 2025

Background

Human consumption of dairy products contaminated with aflatoxin (AF) M1 can lead to severe health issues. This AF's significance and impact on health necessitate a thorough investigation of its prevalence in dairy products.

Objectives

This study aims to determine the prevalence of AFM1 in dairy products through a systematic review and meta‐analysis, focusing on data from Middle Eastern countries.

Methods

We identified relevant studies through electronic database searches (PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science) up to August 2023. We employed a random‐effects model to derive an overall estimate and used 95% confidence intervals to determine pooled prevalence rates.

Results

The meta‐analysis included 193 studies encompassing 297,530 samples of dairy products. The results showed that AFM1 contaminated 87% of dairy products. The following is a ranking of countries based on the prevalence of AFM1 in their dairy products: Iran > Jordan > Turkey > Kuwait > Lebanon > Syria > Egypt > Cyprus > the United Arab Emirates. The current meta‐analysis indicated that Middle Eastern countries exhibited a high prevalence of AFM1 in dairy products. The prevalence rates for AFM1 in various dairy products were as follows: milk (87%), yogurt (68.9%), cheese (63.6%), kashk (62.9%), doogh (55.6%) and ice cream (54%). Pasteurized milk (99.5%), ultra‐high temperature (91.3%), raw milk (73%) and traditional milk (51%), among other milk types, had the highest contamination rates.

Conclusion

The study reveals a high prevalence of AFM1 in dairy products, particularly in Middle Eastern countries. Given the critical importance of milk and dairy products in the diet, special measures are needed to safeguard their quality and protect consumers from AF contamination.
Electoral Integrity and Election Management in Nigeria: The Case of the 2023 General Election
Authors: Madueke Onyedikachi , Enyiazu Chukwuemeka
Published: January 2025

Although Nigeria has maintained periodic elections since 1999, the quality of these elections is often questioned. Marred by several irregularities, including vote buying, falsification of results, and over‐voting, Nigerian elections often fall short of international standards. Focusing mainly on the 2023 presidential election, this study interrogated how organizational attributes of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) contribute to the overall integrity of electoral processes in Nigeria. It relied on data from interviews, the Internet, and documents to assess INEC's organizational efficiency. We found that INEC's significant constraints are corruption, lack of adherence to its rules, and lack of independence. Although the new Electoral Act signed into law by the Nigerian president in 2022 ought to strengthen the capacity and independence of INEC, in practice, the activities of INEC are still massively influenced by political interferences, thereby making it challenging for the body to conduct credible elections. Addressing this challenge will help Nigeria institutionalize the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections.