bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Situ Programmable, Active, and Interactive Crystallization by Localized Polymerization
Authors: Kim Kibeom , Oh Sangmin , Suh Bong Lim , Bae Junghyun , Namkoong Myeong , Kim Yeonji , Yoon Jinsik , Kim Hyeli , Lim Sujeong , Kim In Soo , Lee In‐Gyun , Moon Myoung‐Woon , Hur Kahyun , Park Wook , Cho Hyesung
Published: December 2024

Additive manufacturing has sought active and interactive means of creating predictable structures with diverse materials. Compared to such active manufacturing tools, current crystallization strategies remain in statistical and passive programs of crystals via macroscale thermodynamic controllers, commonly lacking active means to intervene in crystal growth in a spatiotemporal manner. Herein, a strategy toward active and interactive programming and reprogramming of crystals, realized by real‐time tangible feedback on growing crystals by delicately controlling the degree of in‐situ, localized photopolymerization of polymeric structures via additive manufacturing is presented. Using this strategy, crystals can be seeded, guided, and even reprogrammed in a supersaturated liquid resin. In principle, the localized formation of sparse polymeric networks within supercooled resins can induce density fluctuation to trigger seed nucleation instantaneously, whereas the formation of dense networks can lower molecules’ mobilities to inhibit crystal growth. Assisted by these active triggers and deterministic procedural aspects in additive manufacturing, growing crystals can be tangibly interacted through programmed polymeric structures, strengthening deterministic characteristics in crystal growth. It is suggested that crystal growth can be programmable with deterministic hierarchies within the created crystal's morphologies within the background of inherent stochasticity in crystallization, launching an era of convolutional growth of crystals.
Light‐Triggered Reversible Assembly of Halide Perovskite Nanoplatelets
Authors: Hazra Vishwadeepa , Saha Sougata , Pati Swapan K. , Bhattacharyya Sayan
Published: December 2024

Advancements in stimuli‐driven nanoactuators necessitate the discovery of photo‐switchable, self‐contained semiconductor nanostructures capable of precise mechanical responses. The reversible assembly of 0D Cs3Bi2I9 halide perovskite nanoplatelets (NPLs) between stacked and scattered configurations are demonstrated under light and dark, respectively. This sunlight‐triggered perpetual flipping of the NPLs, occurring in less than a minute, is associated with a color change between brown and red. The photomechanical response is driven by the formation and cleavage of sulfide linkages at the NPL surface. In the stacked configuration, various stacking modes create moiré superstructures, enhancing the interlayer charge distribution, and increasing the electronic conductivity and optical absorbance. This leads to a decrease in exciton binding energy from 247 meV for scattered NPLs to 162 meV for stacked NPLs, resulting in a 3.5‐fold enhancement in dark current for the stacked NPL films. The switchable control over color and electric current is continuously reversible and retraceable, exhibiting a minor memory effect observed during extended cycling. The self‐flipping NPL nanoactuators demonstrate reversible mechanical responses, with topographical oscillations ranging from 14 nm in scattered NPLs to 50 nm in the vertically stacked configuration. This seamless reversible nano‐assembly with color interchangeability offers numerous possibilities for nanorobotics, nanoscale switches, and sensors.
Na+‐Complexed Dendritic Polyglycerols for Recovery of Frozen Cells and Their Network in Media
Authors: Won Tae Kyung , Shin Aram , Lee Sang Yup , Kim Byeong‐Su , Ahn Dong June
Published: December 2024

In this study, a novel phenomenon is identified where precise control of topology and generation of polyglycerol induce the retention of Na+ ions in biological buffer systems, effectively inhibiting ice crystal growth during cryopreservation. Unlike linear and hyperbranched counterparts, densely‐packed hydroxyl and ether groups in 4th‐generation dendritic polyglycerol interact with the ions, activating the formation of hydrogen bonding at the ice interface. By inhibiting both intra‐ and extracellular ice growth and recrystallization, this biocompatible dendritic polyglycerol proves highly effective as a cryoprotectant; hence, achieving the cell recovery rates of ≈134–147%, relative to those of 10% dimethyl sulfoxide, which is a conventional cryoprotectant for human tongue squamous carcinoma (HSC‐3) cell line and human umbilical vein endothelial (HUVEC) cells. Further, it successfully recovers the network‐forming capabilities of HUVEC cells to ≈89% in tube formation after thawing. The Na+ ion retention‐driven ice‐growth inhibition activity in biological media highlights the unique properties of dendritic polyglycerol and introduces a new topological concept for cell‐cryoprotectant development.
Elastomeric Cavity Opto‐Mechanics: Low‐Power Soliton Frequency Combs
Authors: Rahmanian Sasan , Mouharrar Hamza , Alibakhshi Amin , Iqbal Zeeshan , Saucedo‐Mora Luis , Montáns Francisco Javier , Awrejcewicz Jan
Published: December 2024

An innovative, previously unexplored approach that leverages elastomeric membranes (EM) to develop a highly deformable cavity optomechanical resonator is proposed. This resonator generates multi soliton frequency combs (FCs) with low power consumption, a phenomenon of great interest in the realm of nonlinear light‐matter interactions. This approach marks a breakthrough due to its streamlined simplicity, utilizing a single continuous‐wave (CW) laser pump and an external acoustic wave. Matching the acoustic wave frequency with natural frequencies of the EM resonator accompanied by mechanical Kerr nonlinearities and dispersion give rise to the formation of mechanical FCs. The hyperelastic mechanical resonator and electromagnetic cavity resonance are parametrically coupled within the microwave frequency range, catalyzing the generation of mechanical FCs and their seamless transformation into optomechanical solitons within the optical domain with remarkable efficiency. Achieving stable pulse trains with a free spectral range ranging from 2 to 9 kHz using a few millimeter‐sized cavity by supplying 2 to 4 mW pump power marks a pivotal advancement in chip‐scale optomechanical resonators. This breakthrough holds transformative potential in domains such as quantum computing and spectroscopy. This method is fundamental to the creation of a mechanical Kerr medium, effectively bypassing the reliance on high mechanical quality‐factors.
Localized Charge‐Transfer State Antennas in Light‐Harvesting Microcrystals for Efficient Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence
Authors: Gu Lin‐Feng , Jiang Hai‐Tao , Sun Ji‐Hao , Wu Bin , Li Yuan‐Yuan , Lu Hang , Zhao Yu‐Dong , Yang Yu‐Hang , Wang Liang , Li Wei‐Feng , Zheng Min , Liao Liang‐Sheng , Song Bin , Wang Zuo‐Shan , Zhuo Ming‐Peng
Published: December 2024

The charge‐transfer (CT) complexes with significant electron delocalization demonstrate abundant appealing physicochemical features and unique orbital hybridization, creating great promise as artificial light‐harvesting antennas for advanced optoelectronics, such as high‐performance organic room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP). Herein, originally, a localized CT complex is proposed in organic microcrystals for exceptional orange‐emissive RTP with photoluminescence peaks at 575 and 625 nm based on the light‐harvesting antennas of CT states in organic microcrystals with donor doping. The localized CT state antennas can capture more singlet excitons, and transition them into triplet excitons, efficiently promoting intersystem crossing (ISC). Owing to the dense packing structure and strong CT interaction, the generation and stabilization of triplet excitons under ambient conditions are facilitated, imparting effective RTP with a lasting afterglow of up to 3 s. The controlled intensity ratio of fluorescence and phosphorescence is successfully achieved via finely adjusting the donor doping ratio, presenting a tunable CIE evolution from (0.42, 0.30) to (0.25, 0.12). The potential applications of these light‐harvesting microcrystals in information encryption and flexographic printing are illustrated.
A Simplified Model for Polycrystalline BaTiO3 Nanoresonator for Second Harmonic Generation
Authors: Tognazzi Andrea , Franceschini Paolo , Weigand Helena , Talts Ülle‐Linda , Cino Alfonso Carmelo , Grange Rachel , De Angelis Costantino
Published: December 2024

Second Harmonic Generation (SHG) has become a critical technique in material characterization, image processing and microscopy. While bulk crystals have been traditionally used for SHG due to their high conversion efficiencies, limited control over radiation properties, delicate phase‐matching conditions and alignment pose significant challenges. The exploration of nanoscale materials and structures based on dielectric platforms has provided enhanced SHG efficiency and control, but their limited transparency in the visible spectral range and complex fabrication processes hinder broader application. Barium titanate (BaTiO3), a ferroelectric material with spontaneous polarization and nonlinear optical behavior, presents an attractive alternative due to its suitability for nano‐imprinting techniques, facilitating scalable production of metasurfaces. In this study, SHG from single polycrystalline BaTiO3 nanocylinders is investigated. Through polarization‐dependent experiments, the influence of crystalline domain orientation and arrangements within the nanocylinders on SHG efficiency is characterized. A simplified numerical model to interpret the different polarization‐dependent SHG diagrams obtained from nominally identical nanocylinders is developed. The results reveal the significant impact of domain geometry and relative size on SHG characteristics. By understanding the relationship between domain geometry and SHG giving insights into the material characterization and design optimization of BaTiO3 and other polycrystalline nanostructures in nonlinear optical devices.
Stimuli‐Responsive Light‐Diffusing Polarizers Self‐Assembled of Liquid Crystals and Polymers
Authors: Kakiuchida Hiroshi , Ogiwara Akifumi
Published: December 2024

Light‐diffusing polarizers of liquid crystal (LC)/polymer composites are fabricated via a self‐assembly process. The transmittance has a polarization extinction ratio more than ten and is controlled electro‐ or thermo‐responsively. Such stimuli responsiveness results from unidirectionally oriented, highly rotatable LCs existing in LC‐rich domains. The polarizers are photoinduced self‐organizable, electro‐driven controllable, and wavelength adjustable. The structures comprise (sub) micrometer‐long, narrow domains of LC and isotropic polymer phases, and some LCs are oriented perpendicular to the domain boundaries. Such LC orientation becomes self‐assembly ordered through photopolymerization‐induced phase separation (PPIPS), performed by nonuniform photoirradiation with direct or Fourier‐transformed speckle‐pattern projection. The polarization extinction ratio of light diffusion increases, as the compositional ratio of urethane prepolymers increases or the photoirradiation becomes more intense. LCs are found to be oriented more uniaxially in the LC‐richer (polymer‐poorer) phases. The uniaxially oriented LCs contribute to the optical polarization of light diffusion. The electro‐response time of polarization change is the order of 100 ms and microscopically caused by LC reorientation behavior in LC‐rich domains among open polymer networks. Two different light‐source wavelengths can be chosen for PPIPS by adjusting photoinitiators. The light‐diffusing polarizers extend photonic application range from the points of view of users and manufacturers.
Frequency‐Multiplexed Programmable Guided‐Wave‐Driven Metasurface for Low Earth Orbit Satellite Communication
Authors: Han Jian‐Qiao , Meng Fan‐Yi , Guan Chunsheng , Jin Tao , Ding Chang , Cai Tong , Wu Qun , Ding Xumin
Published: December 2024

The advancement of low earth orbit (LEO) satellite communication technology has necessitated the emergence of antenna systems with exceedingly stringent technical requirements, including beam scanning, dual‐band orthogonal polarization, low‐profile, low‐cost, and lightweight. Programmable guided‐wave‐driven metasurfaces demonstrate dynamic and advanced control of electromagnetic (EM) waves without external spatial feeding, complex power divider and accompanying phase shifter networks, making it a good candidate for LEO satellite communication. Herein, a frequency‐multiplexed guided‐wave‐driven metasurface for independent and dynamic control of dual‐band EM waves is proposed to achieve uplink and downlink in LEO satellite communication. Through vias are utilized to connect the meta‐atoms and the bottom layer of the substrate integrated waveguide, realizing a guided‐wave‐driven metasurface in which a complicated feeding network of radiation‐type metasurface can be avoided. By modulating the states of the four p–i–n diodes integrated within each meta‐atom, dynamic and independent 1‐bit phase switching across two distinct, tailored frequency bands is achieved. To validate this concept, the designed metasurface is fabricated and characterized, which exhibits excellent beam‐scanning performance at the two operating bands: 10.4 GHz for downlink and 12.5 GHz for uplink. The proposed low‐profile, dual‐band, and programmable metasurface shows great application potential in further satellitecommunication.
Simultaneous Perfect Anomalous Reflection and Angle of Arrival Sensing in Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces
Authors: Movahediqomi Mostafa , Li Yongming , Ptitcyn Grigorii , Asadchy Viktar , Tretyakov Sergei
Published: December 2024

This work introduces reconfigurable Intelligent surfaces (RISs) designed to simultaneously reflect single or multiple incident waves toward one or more receivers and sense their angles of arrival (AoA). Anomalous reflection with strongly suppressed parasitic scattering is achieved through an in situ optimization of either the currents flowing on array elements or the far field in the receiver direction. The suppression of parasitic scattering allows to accurately and without additional measurements or computations detect the angles of arrival of the illuminations through the spatial Fourier transform of the optimized current distribution through the controllable reactive loads. Unlike other recently proposed methods, the proposed scheme of integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) does not require any pre‐computed data sets and works for an arbitrary number of simultaneous illuminations. As a proof of principle, the design and analysis of several reconfigurable intelligent surfaces consisting of an array of loaded wires above a ground plane are conducted using full‐wave simulations.
Engineering “Meso‐Atom” Bonding: Honeycomb‐Network Transitions in Reticular Liquid Crystals
Authors: Anders Christian , Tan Tianyi , Fischer Virginia‐Marie , Wang Ruoyu , Alaasar Mohamed , Waldecker Rebecca , Cao Yu , Liu Feng , Tschierske Carsten
Published: December 2024

A library of rod‐like bolapolyphiles with sticky hydrogen‐bonded glycerol groups at their ends and having highly branched side chains with a carbosilane‐based four‐way branching point, all based on the same oligo(phenylene ethynylene) core, has been synthesized and investigated. For these compounds, a A15‐type Frank–Kasper phase is formed upon side‐chain elongation in the steric frustration range at the transition from the triangular to the much larger square honeycombs. In contrast to the previously known tetrahedral sphere packings the A15 phase is in this case formed by tetrahedral networks of aggregates of parallelly organized π‐conjugated rods. This allows the design of compounds with wide ranges of the A15 network down to room temperature. However, its formation becomes strongly disfavored by core fluorination that is attributed to a changing mode of core–core interaction that also modifies the square honeycombs by deformation of the squares into rectangular or rhombic cells, either with or without emergence of tilt of the rods.
Pyridinium‐Based Schiff‐Base Fluorescent Chemosensor for Sequential Detection of Al3+ Ions and TNP: Applications in Cell Imaging and Latent Fingerprint Visualization
Authors: Pragya  , Jain Sonali J. , Rangan Krishnan , Nath Jha Prabhat , Khungar Bharti
Published: December 2024

A fluorescent pyridinium‐based chemosensor (E)‐1‐(2‐(3‐hydroxy‐4‐((pyridin‐2‐ylimino) methyl) phenoxy) ethyl) pyridin‐1‐ium bromide (BzPySB) was synthesized and characterized using various spectroscopic techniques. The chemosensing potential of BzPySB was explored using UV‐vis and fluorescence spectroscopy in the aqueous medium. The turn‐on fluorescence behavior was observed for BzPySB in the presence of Al3+, while other metal ions were non‐responsive. The B−H and Job′s plot confirmed the 1 : 1 stoichiometric ratio of the BzPySB and Al3+. The in situ generated complex BzPySB‐Al3+ offered selectivity toward TNP via fluorescence turn‐off phenomena with high Ksv and LOD values. The “off‐on‐off” sensing mechanism was elucidated through 1H NMR, mass spectrometry, and DFT calculations. The probe also detected Al3+ in plant and MCF‐7 cells, highlighting its potential in biological systems. Moreover, BzPySB exhibited solid‐state luminescent properties credited to weak π‐π interaction, leading to its successful application in the visualization of latent fingerprints.
Selectivity in Buttress Drumming Tree Properties Among Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) of the Waibira Community in Budongo Forest, Uganda
Authors: Wilhelm Wytse , Eleuteri Vesta , Koops Kathelijne , Fitzgerald Maegan , Zuberbühler Klaus , Hobaiter Catherine
Published: December 2024

Wild chimpanzees drum on tree buttresses during dominance displays and travel, generating low‐frequency sounds that are audible over distances of more than 1 km. Western chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) in the Nimba Mountains of Guinea selectively choose trees and buttresses when drumming, potentially based on their resonant properties, suggesting that these chimpanzees are optimizing their drumming signals. We investigated whether male eastern chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) from the Waibira community in the Budongo Forest, Uganda, also show preferences in tree and buttress choice, exploring whether selectivity is a species‐wide feature. We tested chimpanzee preferences for tree species and diameter, number of buttresses, and buttress area and width, by comparing trees and buttresses used in drumming bouts with nearby unused trees and buttresses. Waibira chimpanzees drummed preferentially on two tree species: the tropical hardwood Cynometra alexandrii and the softwood Chrysophyllum albidum. Chimpanzees selected trees with a larger diameter over nearby trees with a smaller diameter, and buttresses were more likely to be used for drumming if they had a larger area or larger width. These results suggest that chimpanzees in the Waibira community select trees and buttresses based on physical properties, most likely related to acoustically relevant characteristics. These findings support the argument that buttress drumming is a goal‐directed behavior and contributes to our understanding of chimpanzees' use and optimization of their long‐distance acoustic signals.
Entropy‐Repaired Solvation Structure Strategy for High‐Efficiency Phosphate‐Based Localized High‐Concentration Electrolytes in Potassium Batteries
Authors: Yuan Zeyu , Liao Jiaying , Song Lili , Chen Anni , Su Jiling , Wang Jie , Zhou Xiaosi
Published: December 2024

The safety and cycling stability of potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) are deeply associated with potassium‐ion electrolytes. However, due to the weak Lewis acidity of potassium ions, localized high‐concentration electrolytes in PIBs are prone to excessive weak solvation. Herein, we propose an entropy repair strategy for the solvation structure of potassium ions and systematically design a moderately weakly solvated high‐entropy localized high‐concentration electrolyte. The repaired electrolyte can achieve an average stable Coulombic efficiency of 99.4 % on the Cu collector surface. The potassium symmetric battery can be stably cycled for over 10000 h under a high current density of 0.5 mA cm−2 and a large deposition capacity of 1 mAh cm−2. The potassium metal pouch cell, using K1.92Fe[Fe(CN)6]0.94⋅0.5H2O as the cathode, maintains a capacity retention of 87.5 % after 2000 cycles at a current density of 0.5 A g−1. Even when the current density is increased tenfold from 0.1 A g−1, the battery still retains 67.1 % of its capacity. Additionally, due to the introduction of multiple solvents, the potassium metal battery with perylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic dianhydride as the cathode can maintain reversible capacities of 94.0 and 77.3 mAh g−1 and operate stably at ambient temperatures of −20 and −40 °C, respectively.
Electrolyte Anions Suppress Hydrogen Generation in Electrochemical CO Reduction on Cu
Authors: Fuller Lee , Zhang Gong , Noh Seonmyeong , Van Lehn Reid C. , Schreier Marcel
Published: December 2024

In this study, we employed electrochemical‐mass spectrometry (EC‐MS) to elucidate the role of halide anions in electrochemical CO2 and CO reduction. We found that the undesired hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) was significantly suppressed by the anion used. Specifically, the rates of H2 production decreased in the order KF > KCl > KI, meaning that I− most strongly suppressed HER. Interestingly, CO reduction products showed an inverse relationship to HER, with KI leading to the highest rate of CO reduction. By pairing our experimental findings with classical molecular dynamics simulations, we propose a mechanism wherein halide anions influence the dynamic interplay between CO reduction and HER by modulating the competition of H* and CO* for active sites on the Cu surface. We propose that this interaction is enabled by the interfacial concentration of K+ being greater in the presence of F− than in I−. Our results highlight the need to more broadly consider the properties of ions at electrocatalytic interfaces and they point to thus far underappreciated avenues to optimize hydrocarbon production while suppressing hydrogen evolution.
Boundary stabilization of semi‐linear time fractional reaction–diffusion systems with delays
Authors: Mathiyalagan Kalidass , Renugadevi Thanga Vinayagar , Zhang Huiyan , Shi Yan
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the stabilization results for a class of semi‐linear time fractional reaction–diffusion partial differential equations (PDEs) with state delay using the backstepping method. The main goal is to design the boundary control for the system by proving the well‐posedness of the kernel function. The considered reaction–diffusion system is transformed into a stable target system using an invertible Volterra integral transformation. Also, the stability results in the sense of the Lyapunov–Krasovskii theory are proved and sufficient conditions are derived with the help of the linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach. Finally, the results are numerically validated with a fractional‐order Hutchinson's equation.
The robust Orlicz risk with an application to the green photovoltaic power generation
Authors: Yoshioka Hidekazu , Tsujimura Motoh
Published: December 2024

We propose a novel recursive utility for controlling stochastic processes under risk and uncertainty. Our formulation uses a robustified Orlicz risk that can evaluate risk and uncertainty simultaneously. We focus on the control problem of a photovoltaic power generation system that supplies excess electricity for the secondary purpose of generating green hydrogen. The corresponding Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation having a novel nonlinear term is then derived. Computational examples with the available data are finally presented, demonstrating that our methodology can be used for photovoltaic power generation under different meteorological and operational conditions.
Direct Powder Adhesion Method of Quinone‐Based Aqueous Supercapacitor for Roll‐to‐Roll Process
Authors: Haba Nagihiro , Katsuyama Yuto , Kido Ayaka , Morimoto Keisuke , Nakayasu Yuta
Published: December 2024

Quinone‐based supercapacitors have been a growing research target as the next generation energy storage due to their high energy density and their environmental sustainability. However, the commercialization of these organic supercapacitors remains challenging due to complex fabrication processes and insufficient electrochemical performance. In this study, we introduce a novel fabrication method, direct powder adhesion (DPA), which simplifies electrode production while enhancing rate performance. Compared to conventional multi‐step pressing methods, the DPA technique produces electrodes with lower density (0.48 g cm−3 vs. 0.52 g cm−3) and significantly improves conductivity (0.74 Ω cm vs. 1.98 Ω cm). Electrochemical testing of quinone‐impregnated electrodes demonstrates a high specific capacity of 217 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C. The DPA method demonstrated 3.5 ‐fold increase in the specific capacity at 5 C compared to the conventional method, showing high reversibility at higher C rates. Even when the electrode was scaled up by more than >8 times to a more practical size, the same specific capacity of 217 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C was achieved, demonstrating excellent scalability. Despite some challenges with high overpotential at higher rates, this study takes a significant step toward the mass production of high‐performance organic supercapacitors.
The feasibility and safety of robotic‐assisted salvage radical cystectomy
Authors: Rinott Mizrahi Gal , Lawrentschuk Nathan , Thomas Benjamin , Dundee Philip
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility and safety of robotic‐assisted salvage radical cystectomy (RA‐SRC).

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively searched the prospectively collected surgical database of two highly experienced robotic urological surgeons for cases of RA‐SRC, defined as RARC performed post‐previous pelvic RT for palliative or oncologic treatment purposes. Collected data included demographic and clinical information and outcome measures including operative course, hospital stay and complications.

Results

Eighteen patients were included in the current analysis. All patients had previous RT to the pelvis with 12 patients also having prior radical pelvic surgery. Indications for salvage cystectomy were either palliation (n = 12) or oncological (MIBC or high risk NMIBC, n = 6). There were no intraoperative complications and no conversions to open surgery. Ninety day postoperative complications were recorded in 11 patients (61.1%), with major complications (Clavien–Dindo grades 3 and 4) in three patients (16.6%). After a median follow‐up of 43.5 months, one late postoperative complication was observed requiring surgical intervention.

Conclusion

Our data, together with the limited published data from other cohorts of RA‐SRC, suggest that in experienced hands, RA‐SRC is feasible, with intraoperative and perioperative complication rates that are lower than the published data for open SRC and are equivalent to open primary RC. These data will contribute to treatment decision making both in patients with post‐pelvic radiation symptoms requiring palliation and patients with MIBC considering or treated with trimodal treatment.
In silico tools for mechanical analysis of extra‐ and intra‐luminal artificial urinary sphincters
Authors: Mazzucco Gianluca , Pirini Paola , Fontanella Chiara Giulia , Berardo Alice , Mascolini Maria Vittoria , Toniolo Ilaria , Marziale Leonardo , Mazzocchi Tommaso , Lucarini Gioia , Spiezia Nicolò , Carniel Emanuele Luigi
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To analyse and compare the functionality of extraluminal and intraluminal artificial urinary sphincters (AUSs), an in silico procedure has been defined and applied. Design and reliability assessments of the AUS are typically performed using a clinical approach, which does not provide data on mechanical stimulation of urethral tissues. Mechanical stimulation may determine tissue degeneration, such as urethral atrophy or erosion, the main causes of AUS failure. In silico techniques can provide a quantitative description of stress and strain fields due to the interaction between tissues and AUS and allow investigating an extremely large number of situations, considering different configurations of AUS and urethra.

Materials and Methods

Computational investigations were carried out to evaluate the mechanical reliability of the main extraluminal and intraluminal AUS, AMS 800 and Relief. The lower urinary tract was modelled based on previous experiments. The AUS models took into account the main components that interact with biological tissues. Urethra and AUS models were coupled and used to investigate mechanical stimulation of urethral tissues.

Results

In silico simulations provide quantitative information about the mechanical stimulation of urethral tissue, such as compressive strain and stress and hydrostatic pressure, due to interaction with the AUS. Such mechanical quantities allow a comparison of reliability between extraluminal and intraluminal devices.

Conclusions

The activities define and demonstrate the effectiveness of a novel in silico approach to the design and reliability assessment of AUS devices, increasing the investigative possibilities and reducing the time, ethical and economic costs.
Chitosan‐Camphor Beads as a Novel Starting Biomaterial: Insights Into Methodological Approaches for Preparation
Authors: Sebaaly Carine , Gerges Petra , Greige Hélène
Published: December 2024

Biomaterials with antimicrobial and muco‐adhesive properties represent an efficient system for different applications. In this paper, a new biomaterial based on chitosan‐camphor beads and their crosslinked form with glutaraldehyde was optimized. Low and high molecular weight chitosan were considered. After an optimization procedure of blank beads preparation, various strategies were used to load camphor into chitosan beads where eight different beads suspensions were characterized for their size and encapsulation efficiency of camphor. Powdered camphor was added to the chitosan solution during the beads preparation or to preformed beads while it was dissolving in water or in 2% acetic acid solution. Results showed that, camphor addition to chitosan solution led to the formation of homogeneous suspensions with reproducible and higher encapsulation efficiencies of camphor compared to the other formulations, irrespective of the chitosan weight. In addition, these beads were stable for 1 month of storage at 4°C. The camphor loaded cross‐linked beads with glutaraldehyde (referred to as Cam‐beads‐GA) were more stable than noncross‐linked beads (Cam‐beads), which also demonstrated satisfactory stability results. Camphor embedding in chitosan beads was proven to occur through hydrogen bonding and potentially imine bonds by FTIR analysis. The optimized formulations constitute a suitable delivery system for other bioactive agents.
Dual‐Stage Cross‐Flow Filtration: Integrated Capture and Purification of Virus‐Like Particles
Authors: Dietrich Annabelle , Heim Luca , Hubbuch Jürgen
Published: December 2024

Virus‐like particles (VLPs) are a versatile technology for the targeted delivery of genetic material through packaging and potential surface modifications for directed delivery or immunological issues. Although VLP production is relatively simple as they can be recombinantly produced using microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, their current downstream processing often relies on individually developed purification strategies. Integrating size‐selective separation techniques may allow standardized platform processing across VLP purification. This study presents an innovative dual‐stage cross‐flow filtration (CFF) set‐up for integrated capture and purification of VLPs, enabling processing solely based on the size‐selective separation techniques precipitation and filtration. The 2 μm/300 kDa MWCO membrane configuration allows the seamless integration of selective VLP precipitation, two consecutive diafiltration steps–first, for washing the VLP precipitates in the first membrane stage, and second, for isolating the re‐dissolved VLPs by continuously removing precipitant and contaminants in the second membrane stage–and ultrafiltration for setting a target VLP concentration. Compared to a single‐stage CFF set‐up, this dual‐stage CFF set‐up with its integrative, automated design demonstrated the capabilities of product accumulation and contaminant handling while maintaining high productivity. Overall, this study represents a significant advancement toward standardized platform processing of protein nanoparticles through precipitation and filtration, and underscores the potential to expand its applicability to diverse biological molecules, unique process conditions, other phase behavior‐dependent processes, and continuous processing.
Native Opposition to Native Appropriation and the Role of Connection to Native Nations/Communities
Authors: Keene Adrienne J. , Galliher Renee V. , Small‐Rodriguez Desi , Epperson Anna E. , Davis‐Delano Laurel R.
Published: December 2024

Appropriation of American Indian cultures and stereotypical pseudo‐culture is widespread in contemporary U.S. society. Yet, little is known about American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian (AIANNH) perceptions of this appropriation. In this study, we asked two questions. First, what are AIANNH experiences with, attitudes toward, reasoning for attitudes toward, feelings when encountering and behavioural responses to multiple types of appropriation? Second, does connection to one's AIANNH nation/community relate to attitudes toward and behavioural responses to appropriation? We are the first to report statistical survey results on these questions. Although we found a diversity of reactions to this appropriation among our participants (n = 600), mean scores and mean percentages on our measures indicate that most oppose appropriation, believe that it is harmful and experience negative feelings when encountering it. The majority also reported taking at least one action to eliminate appropriation. In alignment with social learning theory, we found that opposition to appropriation was associated with more connections to AIANNH nations/communities in regard to residency, cultural involvement and identity centrality. Using tribal critical race theory, including situating our findings in their settler colonial context, we discuss the implications of our findings.
Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Including Rosehip (Rosa canina L.) Seed Extract: Evaluation of Its Characterization and Bioactivity Properties
Authors: Bozkurt Rabia Nur , Şahin Selin
Published: December 2024

The use of bioactive compounds in plants as reducing, stabilizing, and capping agents in nanoparticle manufacturing is an exceptionally eco‐friendly approach. This work used rosehip seed extract, acquired by automatic solvent extraction, in the microwave‐assisted green production of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). The total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity of the extracted materials and nanoparticles (NPs) were assessed using the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays. The ideal synthesis parameters were established as 25 mL of extract, pH 12, 360 W of microwave power, and a metal salt concentration of 0.05 M for a duration of 7 min. The characterization of the ZnO NPs synthesized under these conditions was performed using x‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive x‐ray analysis (SEM‐EDX), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential measurements, and UV–Vis spectrophotometry. High‐purity, nano‐sized, antioxidant ZnO NPs were manufactured using an ecologically friendly, sustainable, and ecological technique.
Research Status and Applications of Adeno‐Associated Virus
Authors: Xia Ke , Liu Shuangling , Wu Zhenkun , Jiang Jian‐Hui
Published: December 2024

Adeno‐associated virus (AAV) has emerged as a powerful and effective tool for the delivery of exogenous genes into various cells or tissues. To improve the gene delivery efficiency, as well as the safety and specificity of AAV′s cell‐targeting capabilities, extensive investigations have been conducted into its molecular biological characteristics, including capsid structure, cellular tropism, and the mechanisms underlying its entry, replication, DNA packaging, and capsid assembly. Significant differences exist between human and non‐human primate AAVs regarding tissue targeting and transduction efficiency. These differences are primarily attributed to the amino acid sequences of AAV capsid proteins, the structural characteristics of these proteins, and the interactions of AAV with surface factors on host cells, such as cell surface receptors, signaling molecules, and associated proteins. This review primarily focuses on several key aspects of AAV, including its genome, coat proteins and their structures, genome replication, virus assembly, and the role of helper viruses. Additionally, it examines the utilization of recombinant adeno‐associated viruses (rAAV), detailing their production methods, mechanisms of cell entry and trafficking, and various serotypes. The review further interprets the role of rAAV by analyzing its current applications in research and therapy.
Takotsubu Cardiomyopathy Patient With Coronary Artery Disease: The Chicken or the Egg
Authors: Ude Chara , Helal Ayman , Antoun Ibrahim
Published: December 2024

This case emphasizes the rare occurrence of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) in a patient with moderate coronary artery disease (CAD), highlighting the complexity of diagnosis and management. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for TTC in patients with CAD, especially when echocardiographic findings suggest apical ballooning. Balancing therapies for both conditions is essential.
Ovarian Fetiform Teratoma in 38 Years Nulliparous Woman: A Case Report
Authors: Gedamu Desalew , Wondafrash Mekitie , Berhanu Meron
Published: December 2024

Fetiform teratoma, another name for homunculus, is a rare form of mature teratoma that is highly differentiated and has parts that resemble a malformed fetus. We reported a case of ovarian Fetiform teratoma in a 38 years old nulliparous woman presented with right side abdominal distention of 10 years duration. An ultrasound revealed a heterogeneous pelvic cystic mass that ranged in appearance from fully hyperechoic to fully hypoechoic, suggesting mature cystic teratoma. The patient underwent laparotomy. Histopathology of Cystectomy specimen was found to be compatible with Fetiform teratoma. It is important to distinguish this highly differentiated benign neoplasm with potential somatic malignant transformation from Fetus in fetu and ectopic pregnancy. To establish the diagnosis, a thorough clinicopathologic examination, laboratory tests for pregnancy and relevant cytogenetic tests for Zygosity should be performed.
Enhancing the Intrinsic Stability of Nonfullerene Acceptors through Dimerization via Ring‐locking Strategy†
Authors: He Yaxin , Wan Ji , Sun Xianglang , Min Jie , Li Zhong’an
Published: December 2024

Comprehensive Summary

The power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of non‐fullerene acceptor (NFA)‐based organic solar cells (OSCs) have undergone an exciting development in recent years, but the poor intrinsic stability of exocyclic ethylene bridges in NFAs poses a significant challenge to their commercialization. In this work, we propose a new pyran‐locking strategy that can stabilize the exocyclic ethylene bridge connecting the strong electron‐deficient 2‐(3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydroinden‐1‐ylidene)malononitrile end group, based on which two dimerized NFAs (ITBIC‐F and TBTBIC‐F) with an A‐D‐π‐A‐π‐D‐A structure have been successfully synthesized with significantly improved chemical and photochemical stabilities in comparison with traditional NFAs without the ring‐locked structure. The ITBIC‐F and TBTBIC‐F ‐based OSCs not only achieve promising PCEs of 13.03% and 10.01%, respectively, but also show good device stability; the ITBIC‐F‐based unencapsulated devices can retain 75% and 62% of their initial PCEs, respectively, under continuous heat (85 °C) and light irradiation (LED, 100 mW·cm–2) in a nitrogen atmosphere.
Biochar Adsorption: A Green Approach to PFAS Contaminant Removal
Authors: Chavan Darshana , Mayilswamy Neelaambhigai , Chame Satkirti , Kandasubramanian Balasubramanian
Published: December 2024

The widespread use of PFAS in nonstick cookware, hydrophobic textiles, stain‐resistant fabrics, cosmetics, and floor coverings has led to their persistent presence in wastewater streams, posing significant human health and ecological risks. Exposure to PFAS is linked to adverse reproductive outcomes and elevated blood pressure in pregnant individuals, and it negatively impacts aquatic ecosystems, particularly algal populations and microbial communities. This evaluation focuses on biochar's efficacy and cost‐efficiency in removing PFAS from water, highlighting its potential as a sustainable remediation method. Biochar's high microporous volumes (0.1–1.0 cm³/g), aromaticity, and surface oxygen‐containing functional groups make it effective for PFAS adsorption. Various biochar production methods, such as pyrolysis of biomass waste, and innovative modification techniques like acid treatment, ball milling, and metal nanoparticle incorporation are explored to enhance PFAS adsorption capacity. The mechanisms, kinetics, and thermodynamics of PFAS adsorption onto biochar are examined, providing insights into molecular‐level interactions and adsorption isotherms. Furthermore, machine learning models are utilized to understand the impact of processing parameters on PFAS removal efficiency. The review also presents toxicological studies on the harmful effects of PFAS exposure on organisms and humans, emphasizing the urgent need for effective remediation strategies. Ultimately, the potential of biochar‐based approaches in treating PFAS‐contaminated water is underscored by optimizing its physicochemical properties through innovative production and modification methods, along with predictive modeling of adsorption behavior.
One‐Step Nucleic Acid Amplification Analysis of Sentinel Nodes in Endometrial Cancer Versus Ultrastaging: First Long‐Term Follow‐Up Data of Discordant Cases
Authors: Kosťun Jan , Ismail Khaled M. , Pešta Martin , Slunečko Robert , Stráník Petr , Smoligová Vendula , Presl Jiří
Published: December 2024

Aims

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynecological cancer worldwide and its incidence is rising. The cornerstone of its management is surgical treatment with nodal staging. A monocentric study investigating the potential of the molecular biology method of one‐step nucleic acid amplification (OSNA) in sentinel lymph node (SLN) analysis was conducted at our institution between April 2016 and January 2018. Histopathological ultrastaging was used as the reference standard for SLN examination and OSNA as the index test. The aim of this study was to assess the long‐term outcome of patients with discordant SLN and OSNA results. To our knowledge, this is the first study exploring this issue.

Methods and Results

Patients were followed in line with the current ESMO/ESGO/ESTRO recommendations. The institutional electronic database was retrospectively searched for patients' follow‐up data from April 2016 till March 2023. Only patients who provided a written valid consent and had a positive OSNA and negative ultrastaging of their SLN analysis were included in the study. The primary endpoint was the retrospective analysis of their clinical outcome. Data from 58 patients enrolled into our previous study were reviewed and 12 discordant patients who met the inclusion criteria for this study were identified. The median follow‐up was 83 months. Disease recurrence was detected in 3 (25%) patients, two of these were nodal and both patients died. One patient had a solitary lung metastasis which was surgically treated, and the patient was disease‐free during the whole study period.

Conclusion

The recurrence rate of patients included in the study was in the intermediate‐high and high‐risk group range, and hence, higher than expected based on ultrastaging results. Furthermore, benign epithelial inclusions do not seem to adversely affect OSNA SLN analysis in EC patients.
Research on Industrial Process Fault Diagnosis Based on Deep Spatiotemporal Fusion Graph Convolutional Network
Authors: Qian Qiang , Ma Ping , Wang Nini , Zhang Hongli , Wang Cong , Li Xinkai
Published: December 2024

Industrial processes are specialized and intricate systems. Current intelligent fault diagnosis methods do not take into account the interactions between individual units and variables, instead using only the temporal or Euclidean geometric space characteristics of industrial process data. How to utilize the complex relationship between variables for fault diagnosis remains an issue to be solved. This study proposed a fault diagnosis framework based on the deep spatiotemporal fusion graph convolutional network (DSTFGCN) for graph representation learning of correlations between variables. First, the maximum information coefficient was introduced to represent the complex correlation between variables in the graph signal construction process. Second, to effectively extract spatiotemporal features from the data, the graph convolutional network (GCN) and the convolutional neural network (CNN) were introduced into the DSTFGCN for mining complex spatial features in the data, and the long short‐term memory (LSTM) network was employed to capture the evolution of multivariate time series. Consequently, the fault detection and false‐positive rates of the proposed model were, respectively, 94.45% and 0.22% in the Tennessee Eastman Process (TEP), whereas the rates were, respectively, 99.61% and 0.07% on the Three‐Phase Flow Facility (TPFF) datasets. These experimental results demonstrate the excellent performance and robustness of the proposed model, compared to those of both machine learning and deep learning models.