bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of the TOLNet Lidars: The Southern California Ozone Observation Project (SCOOP)
Authors: Leblanc Thierry , Brewer Mark A. , Wang Patrick S. , Granados-Munoz Maria Jose , Strawbridge Kevin B. , Travis Michael , Firanski Bernard , Sullivan John T. , McGee Thomas J. , Sumnicht Grant K. , Twigg Laurence W. , Berkoff Timothy A. , Carrion William , Gronoff Guillaume , Aknan Ali , Chen Gao , Alvarez Raul J. , Langford Andrew O. , Senff Christoph J. , Kirgis Guillaume , Johnson Matthew S. , Kuang Shi , Newchurch Michael J.
Published: August 2018

Abstract. The North-America-based Tropospheric Ozone Lidar Network (TOLNet) was recently established to provide high spatio-temporal vertical profiles of ozone, to better understand physical processes driving tropospheric ozone variability, and to validate the tropospheric ozone measurements of upcoming space-borne missions such as Tropospheric Emissions: Monitoring Pollution (TEMPO). The network currently comprises six tropospheric ozone lidars, four of which are mobile instruments deploying to the field a few times per year, based on campaign and science needs. In August 2016, all four mobile TOLNet lidars were brought to the fixed TOLNet site of JPL-Table Mountain Facility for the one-week-long Southern California Ozone Observation Project (SCOOP). This inter-comparison campaign, which included 400 hours of lidar measurements and 18 ozonesondes launches, allowed for the unprecedented simultaneous validation of five of the six TOLNet lidars. For measurements between 3 and 10 km above sea level, a mean difference of 0.7 ppbv (1.7 %), with a root-mean-square deviation of 1.6 ppbv or 2.4 % was found between the lidars and ozonesondes, which is well within the combined uncertainties of the two measurement techniques. The few minor differences identified were typically associated with the known limitations of the lidars at the profiles altitude extremes (i.e., first 1 km above ground and at the instruments highest retrievable altitude). As part of a large homogenization and quality control effort within the network, many aspects of the TOLNet in-house data processing algorithms were also standardized and validated. This thorough validation of both the measurements and retrievals builds confidence in the high quality and reliability of the TOLNet ozone lidar profiles for many years to come, making TOLNet a valuable ground-based reference network for tropospheric ozone profiling.
Climate impact on the development of Pre-Classic Maya civilisation
Authors: Nooren Kees , Hoek Wim Z. , Dermody Brian J. , Galop Didier , Metcalfe Sarah , Islebe Gerald , Middelkoop Hans
Published: August 2018

Abstract. The impact of climate change on the development and
disintegration of Maya civilisation has long been debated. The lack of
agreement among existing palaeoclimatic records from the region has prevented
a detailed understanding of regional-scale climatic variability, its climatic
forcing mechanisms and its impact on the ancient Maya. We present two new
palaeo-precipitation records for the central Maya lowlands, spanning the
Pre-Classic period (1800 BCE–250 CE), a key epoch in the development of
Maya civilisation. A beach ridge elevation record from world's largest late
Holocene beach ridge plain provides a regional picture, while Lake Tuspan's
diatom record is indicative of precipitation changes at a local scale. We
identify centennial-scale variability in palaeo-precipitation that
significantly correlates with the North Atlantic δ14C
atmospheric record, with a comparable periodicity of approximately 500 years,
indicating an important role of North Atlantic atmospheric–oceanic forcing
on precipitation in the central Maya lowlands. Our results show that the
Early Pre-Classic period was characterised by relatively dry conditions,
shifting to wetter conditions during the Middle Pre-Classic period, around
the well-known 850 BCE (2.8 ka) event. We propose that this wet period may
have been unfavourable for agricultural intensification in the central Maya
lowlands, explaining the relatively delayed development of Maya civilisation
in this area. A return to relatively drier conditions during the Late
Pre-Classic period coincides with rapid agricultural intensification in the
region and the establishment of major cities.
Wildfire impact on Boreal hydrology: empirical study of the Västmanland fire 2014 (Sweden)
Authors: Pimentel Rafael , Arheimer Berit
Published: August 2018

Abstract. Land cover changes at watershed scale constitute key issues in general hydrology. Wildfires are one of the drivers of the changes in vegetation, which might affect hydrological fluxes and the water balance. The Västmanland fire in central Sweden burned 14 000 hectares and removed the Boreal forest in this area during the summer 2014. In here, we have studied the change in flow signatures during 3 years after the wildfire. In the empirical experiment we used a paired catchment methodology to compared 2 catchments highly affected by the wildfire with 2 unaffected catchments nearby, of similar character and climate to avoid the impact of natural variability in the analysis of wildfire impact. The average size of the catchments is 20 km2 and a total of 23 catchment characteristics of flow and physiography were defined, trying to isolate each of the hydrological processes affected by the wildfire. We used both in situ flow measurements and remote sensing information (e.g. yearly volume at the outlet of the subbasins, fraction of vegetation or fraction of snow). The results show a change in the snow dynamics over the burnt areas with shorter duration of the snow season and a higher stream flow during autumn. This is probably related to an earlier snowmelt due to an increase indecent solar radiation over the snow cover without the canopy and the change in interception and transpiration from vegetation after the wildfire, respectively.
Oil Prices and Stock Markets: A Review of the Theory and Empirical Evidence
Authors: Degiannakis Stavros , Filis George , Arora Vipin
Published: August 2018

Do oil prices and stock markets move in tandem or in opposite directions? The complex and time varying relationship between oil prices and stock markets has caught the attention of the financial press, investors, policymakers, researchers, and the general public in recent years. In light of such attention, this paper reviews research on the oil price and stock market relationship. The majority of papers we survey study the impacts of oil markets on stock markets, whereas, little research in the reverse direction exists. Our review finds that the causal effects between oil and stock markets depend heavily on whether research is performed using aggregate stock market indices, sectorial indices, or firm-level data and whether stock markets operate in net oil-importing or net oil-exporting countries. Additionally, conclusions vary depending on whether studies use symmetric or asymmetric changes in the price of oil, or whether they focus on unexpected changes in oil prices. Finally, efind that most studies show oil price volatility transmits to stock market volatility, and that including measures of stock market performance improves forecasts of oil prices and oil price volatility. Several important avenues for further research are identified.
From stakeholder to investor – evolution of the concept of the integrated report main user according to the International Integrated Reporting Framework and its importance for the global acceptance of the  concept
Authors: Kobiela-Pionnier Katarzyna
Published: August 2018

When the International Integrated Reporting Committee was established in 2010, its main objective was to improve sustainability reporting. However, three years later IIRC published the International  Framework adopting a business perspective, aimed at presenting information to the provider of financial capital. The aim of the article is to present changes in the IIRC approach to the main user of the integrated report between 2011 and 2013 and to answer the question why the concept of this report adopted a busi-
ness direction, departing from its original assumptions. Attention was also paid to the convergence of approaches to the main user of information in the financial and integrated reports, as well as to an addi-
tional aspect of the integration of management accounting guidelines. Moreover, an attempt was made to answer the question whether integrated reporting has a chance to become a new paradigm of corporate reporting and what role in this process the focus on the information needs of capital providers plays.
Integrated report as a source of information about the company's approach to risk management
Authors: Raulinajtys-Grzybek Monika , Karwowski Mariusz , Świderska Gertruda
Published: August 2018

The article presents the assessment of the integrated report as a tool for reporting on company risk mana-
gement and answers the question whether and how this form of reporting has affected the scope of infor-
mation on risk management. The article is an attempt at a comprehensive approach to assessing disclosu-
res about risk management. The assessment was made by comparing the information content of annual reports, with particular emphasis on management commentaries and integrated reports. The text analysis method and the Delphi method were used. The research sample included annual reports and two integra-
ted reports for 2016 of companies operating in the energy sector in Poland. The research indicates that more precise risk information is presented in integrated reports than in „traditional” ones. There are also differences in the level of disclosures between the examined integrated reports.
The influence of storage conditions
on the physicochemical properties
and dimensional accuracy
of the alginate impressions
Authors: Żelezińska K. , Nowak M. , Żmudzki J. , Krawczyk C. , Chladek G.
Published: August 2018

Purpose: Alginate impression materials are the most commonly used masses for taking
impressions. They are characterized by good relation of properties to the price. However,
the main problem associated with use of the impression masses is dimensions stability.
Manufacturers of alginate masses recommend storage impression without any source of
moisture, but dentists frequently store impressions wrapped in a wet materials. This may
be the a reason of changes in dimensions and other properties. Moreover, it is recognized,
that casting the model in the soon after making impression guarantee better dimensional
accuracy. However, models are made usually after 24h. For some masses producers
claim unequivocally, that the impressions can be stored for up to 168 h without changing
the dimensions. So in this study was investigates how storage conditions affect chosen
properties of alginate mass, including the accuracy of the models.
Design/methodology/approach: Samples were prepared according to the manufacturer
instruction and divided into 5 groups. Measurements were made 20 min after taking the
impression and after 24h/168h of storage with/ without the resource of moisture. The
measurements of Shore A hardness, tensile strength, mass changes and dimensional
changes were made. Accuracies of the dental stone models were investigated with models
manufactured after 20 min and 168 h after impressions, in comparison to the master model.
Findings: The study showed that the storage conditions and time of storage had influence
on properties of alginate impression mass. The resource of moisture has got an influence
on dimensions and mass changes, tensile strength, elongation and shore A hardness. The
results show that the use of the resource of moisture may be a cause of unfavourable
changes in the gypsum model dimensions.
Research limitations/implications: The storing of the alginate impressions with the
resource of moisture is commonly practiced by the doctors, but it inconsistent with the
manufacturer's recommendation.
Practical implications: The method storing of the alginate impressions determined not
only the materials properties, but also the clinical properties of final products like dentures.
Originality/value: The significant of the method of the storing of alginate impression
materials on the chosen properties of the materials and the accuracy of the dental stone
models were shown.
Setting Up a Point-of-Care Testing Service in a Greenfield, Quaternary Hospital: An Implementation Review
Authors: Harris Jonathan , AbdelWareth Laila O. , Lari Sara , Callaghan Kate O. , Anderson Peter , Mirza Imran
Published: August 2018

Context.—

The health care industry is growing rapidly and is continually seeking more-innovative ways to deliver patient care. The growing demands of clinicians seeking faster and more-efficient ways of providing care to their patients presents challenges to clinical laboratory services. Point-of-care testing (POCT) is frequently seen as a viable solution to address this dilemma. The role of POCT is widely established and accepted in many circumstances provided certain criteria are met.

Objectives.—

To discuss the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi experience—the challenges faced and the solutions found—during the process of establishing a POCT service in a greenfield hospital, and to share this experience to support health care professionals wishing to establish or expand POCT services.

Data Source.—

First-hand expert opinion relating to setting up a POCT service, which was guided and informed by national and international standards and regulatory bodies, provide the basis for this review.

Conclusions.—

Point-of-care testing is a fast growing and unique discipline of pathology. The establishment of a new POCT service creates distinctive and unique challenges compared with traditional laboratory services. The difficulties experienced are compounded in a greenfield hospital but the process of multidisciplinary collaboration and information exchange among peer groups allows the efficient development of a highly effective POCT department.
L’humour noir comme instrument de jeu-à-la-mort dans des films récents
Authors: Fournier Jean-François
Published: August 2018

Dans cet article, il est question du mécanisme ludique d’humour noir dans des films d’Anders Thomas Jensen, Quentin Tarantino, Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Ethan et Joel Coen et Olias Barco. Nous partons de la conception de l’humour donnée par Freud comme stratégie d’économie d’affects, et cherchons à l’enrichir en proposant une analyse des caractéristiques formelles du jeu entre réalisateur et public. Les films en question offrent des morts violentes traitées avec désinvolture. Même si une telle violence produit visuellement un choc, le plaisir ludique est présent qui inscrit le jeu humoristique dans une positivité d’ethos. Notre approche range la mort dans le tragique plus que dans la tristesse, à savoir dans le domaine d’une tension insoluble. Les films étudiés traitent de la mort nécessaire et cruelle sur le mode de simulacre qui permet à une multiplicité subjective de s’exprimer comme source de recomposition de sens et de joie.
L’humour pervers nécrophile : une forme extrême de l’humour pervers du marquis de Sade
Authors: Mazières Frédéric
Published: August 2018

Cet article a pour objectif d’explorer, dans le cadre de la critique freudienne, les concepts transdisciplinaires et novateurs d’humour et de comique pervers nécrophiles. Afin de perturber les repères moraux, esthétiques et sexuels des lecteurs, les oeuvres romanesques les plus « baroques » du marquis de Sade proposent parfois, au gré des scenarii pervers, des traitements humoristiques et/ou comiques de pratiques ou de fantasmes nécrophiles.
“Milk is Milk”: Marketing Milk in Ontario and the Origins of Supply Management
Authors: Nurse-Gupta Jodey
Published: August 2018

Neoliberal policies dominate the discourse on international agricultural trade. Canada’s system of supply management in dairy, eggs, and poultry, however, remains intact despite being a polarizing topic both nationally and abroad. To better understand the ideological rift that exists between those who support and oppose the system, this article examines the creation of the Ontario Milk Marketing Board (OMMB) in 1965, which introduced fairer producer pricing and production discipline through the establishment of milk pools. Before the OMMB was created, chronic oversupplies of milk resulted in devastatingly low milk prices paid to farmers, which caused significant distress in the dairy community. This article examines the divisions between industry stakeholders during the implementation of the milk marketing board in order to better understand why some saw the board’s plans as rational and fair, while others believed OMMB policies infringed on their freedom and retarded the rationalization of the Ontario dairy industry.
A ética que desejamos
Authors: Quelho Tavares Cássia
Published: August 2018

A ética que desejamos é o título e o percurso proposto nesse artigo. Uma parcela expressiva da sociedade contemporânea sofre com o descompasso entre o desejo de desenvolvimento humano e as atitudes reveladas. Nem sempre a práxis está baseada numa ética que visa a justiça e o desenvolvimento. O tema da ética é uma demanda social e está sendo debatido nos mais variados setores. A Teologia, na sua dimensão ético social, também oferece uma reflexão sóbria e bem fundamentada acerca dos dramas humanos que inquieta a todos nós. As dimensões ética e sociopolítica, fazem parte do projeto missionário eclesial. Pensar a vida em sua máxima dignidade é o investimento de uma Igreja peregrina, viva e missionária. A Igreja se coloca em defesa dos direitos humanos com espírito solidário. Sofre com os que sofrem, luta com os que lutam. As dores humanas não podem ser ignoradas. Nesse artigo propõe-se uma reflexão sobre o que temos encontrado pelo caminho em relação à vida e a ética à luz da Agenda 2030 da Organização das Nações Unidas e com alguns indicativos de ordem teológico pastoral descritos do Documento Pastoral apresentados no Ano do Laicato iniciado em 2017, cujo tema “Cristãos leigos e leigas, sujeitos na ‘Igreja em saída’, a serviço do Reino” com o lema: “Sal da Terra e Luz do Mundo”, Mt 5,13-14. Entendemos que a perspectiva cristã ser colocada à serviço da sociedade.
Copper affects composition and functions of microbial communities in marine biofilms at environmentally relevant concentrations
Authors: Corcoll Natàlia , Yang Jianghua , Backhaus Thomas , Zhang Xiaowei , Eriksson Martin Karl ,   Group
Published: August 2018

Cu pollution in coastal areas is a worldwide threat for aquatic communities. This study assesses the effects of Cu exposure on microbial diversity, community structure and functions of microbial communities in marine periphyton biofilms at environmental relevant concentrations. Periphyton was exposed for 18 days to five Cu concentrations, between 0.01 and 10 μM, in a semi-static test. Diversity and community structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms were assessed by 16S and 18S amplicon sequencing, respectively. Community function was studied as impacts on algal biomass and primary production. Additionally, we studied Pollution-Induced Community Tolerance (PICT) using photosynthesis as the endpoint. Sequencing results detected an average of 9504 and 1242 OTUs for 16S and 18S, respectively, reflecting the huge biodiversity of marine periphytic biofilms. Eukaryotes represent the most Cu-sensitive kingdom, where effects were seen already at concentrations as low as 10 nM. The structure of the prokaryotic part of the community was impacted at slightly higher concentrations (60 nM), which is still in the range of the Cu concentrations observed in the area (80 nM).The current environmental quality standard for Cu of 70 nM therefore does not seem to be sufficiently protective for periphyton. Cu exposure resulted in a more Cu-tolerant community, which was accompanied by a reduced total algal biomass, increased relative abundance of diatoms and a reduction of primary production. Cu exposure changed the network of associations between taxa in the communities. A total of 23 taxa, including species within Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Stramenopiles and Hacrobia, were identified as being particularly sensitive to Cu. DNA metabarcoding is presented as a sensitive tool for community-level ecotoxicological studies that allows to observe impacts simultaneously on a multitude of pro- and eukaryotic species, and therefore to identify particularly sensitive, non-cultivable species and taxa.
Background selection and biased gene conversion affect more than 95% of the human genome and bias demographic inferences
Authors: Pouyet Fanny , Aeschbacher Simon , Thiéry Alexandre , Excoffier Laurent
Published: August 2018

Disentangling the effect on genomic diversity of natural selection from that of demography is notoriously difficult, but necessary to properly reconstruct the history of species. Here, we use high-quality human genomic data to show that purifying selection at linked sites (i.e. background selection, BGS) and GC-biased gene conversion (gBGC) together affect as much as 95% of the variants of our genome. We find that the magnitude and relative importance of BGS and gBGC are largely determined by variation in recombination rate and base composition. Importantly, synonymous sites and non-transcribed regions are also affected, albeit to different degrees. Their use for demographic inference can lead to strong biases. However, by conditioning on genomic regions with recombination rates above 1.5 cM/Mb and mutation types (C↔G, A↔T), we identify a set of SNPs that is mostly unaffected by BGS or gBGC, and that avoids these biases in the reconstruction of human history.
Compact Size Triple Notched-bands UWB Antenna with Sharp Band-Rejection Characteristics at WiMAX and WLAN Bands
Authors: Habash M. F. , Tantawy A. S. , Atallah H. A. , Abdel-Rahman A. B.
Published: August 2018

In this paper, a compact triple band-notched Ultra Wideband (UWB) antenna with sharp band-elimination features and controlled notched bandwidths is proposed and discussed. The design is made up of a rectangular-shaped   patch UWB planar monopole antenna with double collections of band-notched configurations. The band-notched configurations are involved to produce the desired lower and upper stop bands with good frequency selectivity and suitable stop bandwidths. The first notch is realized by using a C-shaped slot etched in the radiating patch in order to eliminate the interference at the WiMAX (3.4 - 3.8 GHz) applications. The second and the third notches are realized together by using a pair of U-shaped resonators that are located beside the feed line in both sides to eliminate the interference with the lower WLAN (5.15–5.35 GHz) and the higher WLAN (5.725–5.825GHz) bands.  Additionally, the bandwidths of the lower and upper stop bands can be control separately by changing the parameters of the band-notched configurations. Furthermore, the suggested triple notched bands UWB antenna is optimized, fabricated, and measured for verification purposes. The measured results are close to the simulated ones.
PCB access impedances extraction method of in-situ integrated circuit
Authors: Xu Z. , Ravelo B. , Gantet J. , Marier N.
Published: August 2018

This article describes an extraction technique of input and output impedances of integrated circuits (ICs) implemented onto the printed circuit boards (PCBs). The feasibility of the technique is illustrated with a proof-of-concept (POC) constituted by two ICs operating in a typically transmitter-receiver (Tx-Rx) circuit. The POC system is assumed composed of three different blocks of emitter signal source, load and interconnect passive network. This latter one is assumed defined by its chain matrix known from its electrical and physical characteristics. The proposed impedance extraction method is elaborated from the given signals at the transmitter output and receiver input. The terminal access impedances are formulated in function of the parameters of the interconnect system chain matrix. The feasibility of the method is checked with a passive circuit constituted by transmission lines driven by voltage source with RL-series network internal impedance and loaded at the output by the RC-parallel network. Good correlation between the access impedance reference and calculated is found.
Unlicensed Corrections Violate the Gricean Maxims of Communication: Evidence for a Cognitive Mechanism Underlying Misinformation Backfire Effects
Authors: Thomas Jacob G. , Autry Kevin S.
Published: November 2024

Successful correction of misinformation is complicated by the possibility of backfire effects where corrections may unintentionally increase false beliefs. Due to the conflicting evidence for the existence of backfire effects in the current literature, the present study investigated the influence of pragmatic licensing (i.e., contextual justification for communicating corrections) on the occurrence of backfire effects. Using text messages to manipulate the presence of misinformation and corrections about the meanings of novel words, we found evidence of a backfire effect occurring as a result of unlicensed negated corrections. Misinformation use was significantly greater when a correction was provided without licensing than when no information was provided at all. We suggest that the backfire effect observed in this study may be the result of a violation of the Gricean maxims of communication, and that this mechanism may help to explain the contradictory findings about the existence of backfire effects when correcting misinformation.
Multiplexing Integration Meta‐Absorber in an Ultrathin Planar Board
Authors: Cai Tong , Meng Xiangyang , Huang Hailin , Liu Dan , Cui Xingshuo , Feng Cunqian , Zheng Guimei , Guan Chunsheng , Ji Wenye
Published: November 2024

A meta‐absorber is a type of metamaterial capable of absorbing incident electromagnetic waves, primarily used for isolating and attenuating these waves. Due to their unique properties, meta‐absorbers are widely used in areas of electronic shielding, radar cross‐section reduction, as well as military camouflage. To enhance the working bandwidth, conventional meta‐absorbers integrate multiresonance modes in different layers, resulting in increased thickness and limiting their applications. Herein, a multiplexing integration meta‐absorber is proposed in a one‐layer planar board, achieving an ultrathin thickness of 0.053 λ and an ultrawide absorption band covering the whole X and Ku bands (8.0–18.0 GHz) by harnessing the coupling of four resonant modes. Moreover, the designed meta‐absorber is insensitive to the polarization of incident waves and exhibits good angle stability within ±45°. The experimental results agree well with the simulations. These findings may inspire the development of ultrathin metadevices with multifunctionalities operating across different frequency domains.
Investigation of Friction and Wear Characteristics of Copper‐Containing Antimicrobial Stainless Steels at Low Temperatures
Authors: Zhao Guanghui , Zhang Yu , Li Juan , Li Huaying , Ma Lifeng , Wang Yufang
Published: November 2024

Experiments on friction and wear are conducted on copper‐containing antimicrobial stainless steel specimens and ordinary 304 stainless steel under a range of normal loads (20, 40, 60, and 100 N) and temperatures (23, 0, −60, and −120 °C). Using a white light interference 3D surface profilometer and a scanning electron microscope, the friction coefficient curves, wear mark surfaces, and friction mechanisms under varying friction conditions are analyzed. The results show that coefficient of friction (COF) and wear decrease with the decline regarding temperature and load, and the lowest value occurs at −120 °C. The copper‐containing antimicrobial stainless steel shows excellent tribological properties, with the COF gradually reducing from 23 to −120 °C. By contrast, the COF increases with increasing load. Additionally, tests and comparisons of standard 304 stainless steel under the same conditions demonstrate that the copper‐containing antimicrobial stainless steel shows enhanced tribological performance than ordinary 304 stainless steel, with a 31.2% lower erosion rate than standard stainless steel at −120 °C. Moreover, simulations and contrasts show that the copper‐containing antimicrobial stainless steel shows superior toughness and strength than ordinary stainless steel at low temperatures due to the presence of copper elements.
Supercooled Water Droplets Impacting at High Speed on Superhydrophobic Surfaces: Open Questions Related to Icephobicity
Authors: Laroche Alexandre , Karpen Norbert , Vercillo Vittorio , Bonaccurso Elmar
Published: November 2024

It is posited that impact ice adhesion strength on superhydrophobic surfaces is related to droplet impalement. Several gaps still exist in the understanding of how different types of textured surfaces resist the impalement of high‐speed impacting droplets (<102 μm diameter at 102–103 m s−1). A previous study reveals that a pressure balance calculation can predict the wetting state of an impacting drop (≈103 μm diameter at ≈101 m s−1). However, the ability of this model to predict the wetting state of small droplets impacting at high speed or of droplets in a supercooled state has not been reported. To better understand supercooled microdroplet impalement, and to verify the hypothesis that droplet impalement is directly related to ice adhesion strength, herein, the impact behavior of microdroplets in a cold airflow onto surfaces of varying topography and wettability in an icing wind tunnel with support of high‐speed video images are investigated. Although the results do not allow for validating the above hypothesis about impalements and ice adhesion, they show that the difference between supercooled droplet spreading and retraction can be a predictor of ice adhesion strength. However, this relation must be validated with a greater body of data from samples with very diverse surface properties.
Phase Reconstruction‐Assisted Electron‐Li+ Reservoirs Enable High‐Performance Li‐S Battery Operation Across Wide Temperature Range
Authors: He Yongqian , Xiong Duanfeng , Luo Yixin , Zhang Wanqi , Liu Sisi , Ye Yongjie , Wang Mengqing , Chen Ying , Liu Hong , Wang Jian , Lin Hongzhen , Su Jincang , Wang Xianyou , Shu Hongbo , Chen Manfang
Published: November 2024

Lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs) are known as high energy density, but their performance deteriorates sharply under high/low‐temperature surroundings, due to the sluggish kinetics of sulfur redox conversion and Li+ transport. Herein, a catalytic strategy of phase reconstruction with abundant “electron‐Li+” reservoirs has been proposed to simultaneously regulate electron and Li+ exchange. As a demo, the 1T‐phase lithiation molybdenum disulfide grown on hollow carbon nitride (1T‐LixMoS2/HC3N4) is achieved via in situ electrochemical modulation, where the 1T‐LixMoS2 serves as an auxiliary “Li+ source” for facilitating Li+ transport and the HC3N4 acts as an electron donor for electronic supplier. From the theoretical calculations, experimental and post‐modern analyses, the relationship between the catalytic behaviors and mechanism of “electron‐Li+” reservoirs in accelerating the rate‐determining kinetics of sulfur species are deeply understood. Consequently, the cells with 1T‐LixMoS2/HC3N4/PP functional separator demonstrate excellent long‐term electrochemical performance and stabilize the areal capacity of 6 mAh cm−2 under 5.0 mg cm−2. Even exposed to robust surroundings from high (60 °C) to low (0 °C) temperatures, the optimized cells exhibit high‐capacity retention of 76.2% and 90.4% after 100 cycles, respectively, pointing out the potential application of catalysts with phase reconstruction‐assisted “electron‐Li+” reservoirs in LSBs.
Fast Charging Sodium‐Ion Full Cell Operated From −50 °C to 90 °C
Authors: Zhao Shaoyuan , Li Guodong , Li Zhi , Zhang Kai , Chen Xinyao , Dong Xiaoli , Wang Yonggang , Cao Yongjie , Xia Yongyao
Published: November 2024

The application of sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) within grid‐scale energy storage systems (ESSs) critically hinges upon fast charging technology. However, challenges arise particularly with anodes such as hard carbon (HC), which exhibits a low working plateau (less than 0.1 V vs Na/Na+) and is susceptible to sodium dendrite issues under high current densities. In this study, a cost‐effective SIB system comprising Na2.4Fe1.8(SO4)3 (NFS) cathode, NaTi2(PO4)3 (NTP) anode, and ester‐based electrolyte is assembled to solve the fast‐charging obstacle. Benefiting from the fast sodium‐ion diffusion kinetics and relatively high voltage platform of NTP anode, this full cell can work for 10 000 cycles at 10 C rate with a notable capacity retention of 70.7%. Moreover, this investigation reveals that the full cell can operate safely between ‐50 to 90 °C even with an ester‐based electrolyte, thereby showcasing broad application prospects. This work provides a valuable guidance for designing fast charging and wide temperature SIBs.
Selective Self‐Assembly of Atomically Dispersed Iron and Cobalt Dual Atom Catalyst on Anisotropic Mesoporous Carbon Particles for High Performance Seawater Batteries
Authors: Woo Dongyoon , Kim Jioh , Xu Liangliang , Park Jinkyu , Park Cheol‐Young , Yi Seung Yeop , Kim Seongbeen , Jun Hyunwoo , Kim Seongseop , Lee Jinwoo
Published: November 2024

Na‐seawater batteries (SWBs) are environmentally friendly energy storage system that utilizes abundant seawater as an electrolyte alternative to conventional distilled water‐based and organic electrolytes. To achieve high energy efficiency in Na‐SWBs, it is necessary to enhance the activity of bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts. In this study, an atomically dispersed iron and cobalt dual‐atom nitrogen‐doped lens‐shaped mesoporous carbon (FeCo‐LMC) particles is synthesized as a SWB cathode material using the spinodal decomposition of the polymer blend and selective precursor positioning. The well‐aligned mesoporous structure and synergetic effect of the dual‐atom site realize FeCo‐LMC as a comparable bifunctional oxygen catalyst with the lowest overpotential difference (EOER−EORR) among the other catalysts with natural seawater electrolyte. When applied to the SWB system, the FeCo‐LMC shows a highly improved charge/discharge performance compared to Pt/C and a stable cycling performance for 200 h. Density functional theory calculations reveal the enhanced oxygen catalytic activity of FeCo‐LMC owing to electron delocalization and d‐band center adjustment of FeN4–CoN4 structure.
High Entropy Ceramics for Electromagnetic Functional Materials
Authors: Li Lu‐Yang , Zhang Min , Jiang Miao , Gao Li‐Hong , Ma Zhuang , Cao Mao‐Sheng
Published: November 2024

Microwave absorbing materials play an increasingly important role in modern electronic warfare technology for enhancing electromagnetic compatibility and suppressing electromagnetic interference. High‐entropy ceramics (HECs) possess extraordinary physical and chemical properties, and more importantly, the high tunability of multi‐component HECs has brought new opportunities to microwave absorbing materials. Rich crystallographic distortions and multi‐component occupancies enable HECs to have highly efficient microwave absorption properties, excellent mechanical properties, and thermal stability. Therefore, the structural advantages of HECs are integrated from comprehensive perspectives, emphasizing on the role of dielectric and magnetic properties in the absorption phenomenon. Strategies are proposed to improve the microwave absorption capacity of HECs, including composition optimization, microstructure engineering, and post‐treatment technology. Finally, the problems and obstacles associated with high‐entropy materials (HEMs) research are discussed. The innovative design concepts of high‐entropy microwave absorbing ceramics are highlighted.
A Cryo‐to‐Liquid Phase Correlative Light Electron Microscopy Workflow for the Visualization of Biological Processes in Graphene Liquid Cells
Authors: Rutten Luco , Joosten Ben , Schaart Judith , de Beer Marit , Roverts Rona , Gräber Steffen , Jahnen‐Dechent Willi , Akiva Anat , Macías‐Sánchez Elena , Sommerdijk Nico
Published: November 2024

Liquid phase electron microscopy (LP‐EM) has emerged as a powerful technique for in situ observation of material formation in liquid. Especially the use of graphene as window material provides new opportunities to image biological processes because of graphene's molecular thickness and electron scavenger capabilities. However, in most cases the process of interest is initiated when the graphene liquid cells (GLCs) are sealed, meaning that the process cannot be imaged at early timepoints. Here, a novel cryogenic/liquid phase correlative light/electron microscopy workflow that addresses the delay time between graphene encapsulation and the start of the imaging, while combining the advantages of fluorescence and electron microscopy is reported. This workflow allows imaging to be initiated at a predetermined space and time by vitrifying and thawing at a selected time point. The workflow is demonstrated first by observing multiple day crystallization processes and subsequently highlight its potential by observing a biological process: the complexation of calciprotein particles. The ability to correlate the dynamic complexation observed in a GLC with cryogenic TEM and dynamic light scattering, confirms the validity of observations and underlines the exciting possibilities for LP‐EM in biology.
Ultra‐Sensitive, Self‐powered, CMOS‐Compatible Near‐Infrared Photodetectors for Wide‐Ranging Applications
Authors: Silva Nuno E. , Jayakrishnan Ampattu R. , Kaim Adrian , Gwozdz Katarzyna , Domingues Leonardo , Kim J. S. , Istrate Marian C. , Ghica Corneliu , Pereira Mario , Marques Luís , Gomes M. J. M. , Hoye Robert L. Z. , MacManus‐Driscoll Judith L. , Silva José P. B.
Published: November 2024

Self‐powered near‐infrared (NIR) photodetectors are essential for surveillance systems, sensing in IoT electronics, facial recognition, health monitoring, optical communication networks, night vision, and biomedical imaging. However, silicon commercial detectors need external power to operate and cooling to suppress large dark currents. This work demonstrates a new class of CMOS‐compatible self‐powered NIR photodetector based on ferroelectric 5‐nm thick ZrO2 films which do not require cooling and therefore have two key advantages over Si, and at the same time have comparable performance metrics. At room‐temperature, under 940 nm wavelength illumination (1.4 mW cm−2 power density, 10 Hz repetition rate), and without any power applied, fast rise and fall times of ≈2 and 4 µs, respectively, are achieved in Al/Si/SiOx/ZrO2/ITO devices, along with responsivity, detectivity and sensitivity values of up to ≈3.4 A W−1, 1.2 × 1010 Jones and 4.2 × 103, respectively, far exceeding all other emerging self‐powered systems. Furthermore, dual‐band NIR detection is shown for different NIR wavelengths, proof‐of‐concept feasibility being demonstrated for the smart identification of NIR targets. Therefore, it is demonstrated, for the first time, that coupling together the pyroelectric effect, the photovoltaic effect, and the ferroelectric effect is a novel method to significantly enhance the performance of CMOS‐compatible ZrO2‐based self‐powered photodetectors in the NIR region.
Hierarchically Structured Ceramic Coatings Based on Zirconia and Magnesium Oxide with High Toughness
Authors: Qian Weifeng , Ning Bingkun , Wang Shuang , Xie Tianxiang , Chen Yongnan , Zhao Qinyang , Wang Nan , Wang Shaopeng , Zhan Haifei
Published: November 2024

A major challenge in the application of ceramic materials is a trade‐off between strength and toughness. In this work, hierarchically structured ceramic coatings (HSCCs) are fabricated to address this challenge. HSCCs feature a dual‐layer micron‐scale structure built on a “brick‐mortar” nanoscale structure, which is achieved by changing the crystalline and amorphous phase ratio during plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO). It is found that HSCCs with homogeneous interfaces exhibit high thermal stability up to 700 °C and a 65% improvement in shear strain resistance compared to conventional crystalline coatings (CCCs). This improvement is attributed to the stabilizing effect of atoms on the boundaries of the enhancement phase and the facilitating effect on the deformation of the compliant phase. The hierarchical structure effectively leverages the plasticity of the compliant phase and the strength of the enhancement phase facilitated by the homogeneous interface. This work proposes a feasible approach for improving the toughness of ceramic functional composites and mitigating their susceptibility to brittle fracture.
Chitosan‐Modified Hydrogel Microsphere Encapsulating Zinc‐Doped Bioactive Glasses for Spinal Cord Injury Repair by Suppressing Inflammation and Promoting Angiogenesis
Authors: Su Xinjin , Gu Changjiang , Wei Ziheng , Sun Yanqing , Zhu Chao , Chen Xiongsheng
Published: November 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a common nerve injury caused by external force, resulting in sensory and motor impairments. Previous studies demonstrated that inhibiting the neuroinflammation promoted SCI repair. However, these approaches are low efficient, and lack targeting specificity, and even require repeated and high doses of systemic administration. To address such issues, in the present study, chitosan‐modified hydrogel microspheres encapsulating with zinc‐doped bioactive glasses (CS‐MG@Zn/BGs) is constructed for targeted repair of SCI. In vitro, the CS‐MG@Zn/BGs effectively inhibited the acute inflammatory response initiated by microglia and promoted angiogenic activities. In vivo, CS‐MG@Zn/BGs targeted the injured site, and attenuated neuroinflammation by inhibiting microglia infiltration and modulating microglia polarization toward M2 type. Furthermore, it facilitated vascular reconstruction, neuronal differentiation, axonal regeneration and remyelination at the injured site, and thereby promoted motor function recovery of SCI mice. The in vitro and in vivo results implied that CS‐MG@Zn/BGs may be a promising alternative for the rehabilitation of SCI.
Ligand‐Tethered Extracellular Vesicles Mediated RNA Therapy for Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Liu Yue , Chen Shang , Huang Haoyan , Midgley Adam C. , Han Zhibo , Han Zhong‐Chao , Li Qiong , Li Zongjin
Published: November 2024

Liver fibrosis poses a significant global health burden, in which hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a crucial role. Targeted nanomedicine delivery systems directed at HSCs have shown immense potential in the treatment of liver fibrosis. Herein, a bioinspired material, engineered therapeutic miR‐181a‐5p (a miRNA known to inhibit fibrotic signaling pathways) and targeted moiety hyaluronic acid (HA) co‐functionalized extracellular vesicles (EVs) are developed. HA is incorporated onto the surface of EVs using DSPE‐PEG as a linker, allowing preferential binding to CD44 receptors, which are overexpressed on activated HSCs. Our results confirmed enhanced cellular uptake and improved payload delivery, as evidenced by the increased intracellular abundance of miR‐181a‐5p in activated HSCs and fibrotic livers. HA‐equipped EVs loaded with miR‐181a‐5p (DPH‐EVs@miR) significantly reduce HSC activation and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition by inhibiting the TGF‐β/Smad signaling pathway, thus alleviating the progression of liver fibrosis. Additionally, DPH‐EVs@miR improves liver function, ameliorates inflammatory infiltration, and mitigates hepatocyte apoptosis, demonstrating superior hepatic protective effects. Collectively, this study reports a prospective nanovesicle therapeutic platform loaded with therapeutic miRNA and targeting motifs for liver fibrosis. The biomarker‐guided EV‐engineering technology utilized in this study provides a promising tool for nanomedicine and precision medicine.
Minimally Invasive Syringe‐Injectable Hydrogel with Angiogenic Factors for Ischemic Stroke Treatment
Authors: Kim Donggue , Lee Ji Woo , Kim Yang Tae , Choe Junhyeok , Kim Gaeun , Ha Chang Man , Kim Jae Geun , Song Kwang Hoon , Yang Sunggu
Published: November 2024

Ischemic stroke (IS) accounts for most stroke incidents and causes intractable damage to brain tissue. This condition manifests as diverse aftereffects, such as motor impairment, emotional disturbances, and dementia. However, a fundamental approach to curing IS remains unclear. This study proposes a novel approach for treating IS by employing minimally invasive and injectable jammed gelatin‐norbornene nanofibrous hydrogels (GNF) infused with growth factors (GFs). The developed GNF/GF hydrogels are administered to the motor cortex of a rat IS model to evaluate their therapeutic effects on IS‐induced motor dysfunction. GNFs mimic a natural fibrous extracellular matrix architecture and can be precisely injected into a targeted brain area. The syringe‐injectable jammed nanofibrous hydrogel system increased angiogenesis, inflammation, and sensorimotor function in the IS‐affected brain. For clinical applications, the biocompatible GNF hydrogel has the potential to efficiently load disease‐specific drugs, enabling targeted therapy for treating a wide range of neurological diseases.
Bioadhesive First‐Aid Patch with Rapid Hemostasis and High Toughness Designed for Sutureless Sealing of Acute Bleeding Wounds
Authors: Zeng Ziyuan , Zhang Jiaming , Gao Yige , Song Yuanyuan , Liu Luoming , Zhu Miaomiao , Ma Wenjing , Fu Jiajun , Miao Dongyang , Huang Chaobo , Xiong Ranhua
Published: November 2024

The global military and civilian sectors express widespread concern over the significant hemorrhage associated with various acute wounds. Such bleedings lead to numerous casualties in military confrontations, traffic accidents, and surgical injuries. Consequently, the rapid control of the bleedings, particularly for extensive and pressurized wounds, is crucial in first‐aid situations. In this work, a double‐layered bioadhesive patch that combines a superabsorbent adhesive hydrogel with a highly tough antibacterial polyurethane film, which is called as Bio‐Patch, is proposed. The Bio‐Patch demonstrates superior mechanical strength and forms robust bioadhesion to acute bleeding wounds. Furthermore, the Bio‐Patch enables protecting against external Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria. Thanks to the double‐layered structures having synergistic functions of stable barrier and robust adhesion, the Bio‐Patch provides optimal wound sealing (burst strength exceeding 310 mmHg) both in vitro and in vivo. It also demonstrates superior hemostatic effects (less than 30 s) in vivo. This offers promising opportunities for rapid control of extensive and pressurized hemorrhage in first‐aid clinical scenarios.
Atom Probe Tomography: a Local Probe for Chemical Bonds in Solids
Authors: Cojocaru‐Mirédin Oana , Yu Yuan , Köttgen Jan , Ghosh Tanmoy , Schön Carl‐Friedrich , Han Shuai , Zhou Chongjian , Zhu Min , Wuttig Matthias
Published: November 2024

Atom probe tomography is frequently employed to characterize the elemental distribution in solids with atomic resolution. Here the potential of this technique to locally probe chemical bonds is reviewed and discussed. Two processes characterize the bond rupture in laser‐assisted field emission, the probability of molecular ions (PMI), i.e., the probability that molecular ions are evaporated instead of single (atomic) ions, and the probability of multiple events (PME), i.e., the correlated field‐evaporation of more than a single fragment upon laser‐ or voltage pulse excitation. Here it is demonstrated that one can clearly distinguish solids with metallic, covalent, and metavalent bonds based on their bond rupture, i.e., their PME and PMI values. These findings open new avenues in understanding and designing advanced materials, since they allow a quantification of bonds in solids on a nanometer scale, as will be shown for several examples. These possibilities would even justify calling the present approach bonding probe tomography (BPT).