bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stable and Highly Emissive Infrared Yb‐Doped Perovskite Quantum Cutters Engineered by Machine Learning
Authors: Jing Yao , Low Andre K. Y. , Liu Yun , Feng Minjun , Lim Jia Wei Melvin , Loh Siow Mean , Rehman Quadeer , Blundel Steven A. , Mathews Nripan , Hippalgaonkar Kedar , Sum Tze Chien , Bruno Annalisa , Mhaisalkar Subodh G.
Published: July 2024

Quantum cutting (QC) allows the conversion of high‐energy photons into lower‐energy photons, exhibiting great potential for infrared communications. Yb‐doped perovskite nanocrystals can achieve an efficient QC process with extremely high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) thanks to the favorable Yb3+ incorporation in the perovskite structure. However, conventionally used oleic acid–oleylamine‐based ligand pairs cause instability issues due to highly dynamic binding to surface states that have curbed their potential applications. Herein, zwitterionic type C3‐sulfobetaine 3‐(N,N‐Dimethylpalmitylammonio)propanesulfonate molecule is utilized to build a strong binding state on the nanocrystals’ surface through a new phosphine oxide synthesis route. Leveraging machine learning and Bayesian Optimization workflow to determine optimal synthesis conditions, near‐infrared PLQY above 190% is achieved. The high PLQY is well maintained after over three months of aging, under high‐flux continuous UV irradiation, and long continuous annealing. This is the first report of highly efficient and stable perovskite quantum cutters, which will drive the study of fundamental physics phenomena and near‐infrared quantum communications.
Near Infrared‐Fluorescent Dinuclear Iridium(III) Nanoparticles for Immunogenic Sonodynamic Therapy
Authors: Tang Dongsheng , Cui Minhui , Wang Bin , Xu Chun , Cao Zheng , Guo Jin , Xiao Haihua , Shang Kun
Published: July 2024

Dinuclear iridium(III) complexes activated by light‐inducible spatiotemporal control are emerging as promising candidates for cancer therapy. However, broader applications of current light‐activated dinuclear iridium(III) complexes are limited by the ineffective tissue penetration and undesirable feedback on guidance activation. Here, an ultrasound (US) triggered near infrared‐fluorescent dinuclear iridium(III) nanoparticle, NanoIr, is first reported to precisely and spatiotemporally inhibit tumor growth. It is demonstrated that reactive oxygen species can be generated by NanoIr upon exposure to US irradiation (NanoIr + US), thereby inducing immunogenic cell death. When combined with cisplatin, NanoIr + US elicits synergistic effects in patient‐derived tumor xenograft mice models of ovarian cancer. This work first provides a design of dinuclear iridium(III) nanoparticles for immunogenic sonodynamic therapy.
Approaching Splendid Catalysts for Li–CO2 Battery from the Theory to Practical Designing: A Review
Authors: Pan Qing , Ma Xianpeng , Wang Haoji , Shu Yuming , Liu Huaxin , Yang Lu , Li Wenyuan , Liu Jintao , Wu Yancheng , Mao Ya , Xie Jingying , Zou Guoqiang , Hou Hongshuai , Deng Wentao , Ji Xiaobo
Published: July 2024

Lithium carbon dioxide (Li–CO2) batteries, noted for their high discharge voltage of approximately 2.8 V and substantial theoretical specific energy of 1876 Wh kg−1, represent a promising avenue for new energy sources and CO2 emission reduction. However, the practical application of these batteries faces significant hurdles, particularly at high current densities and over extended cycle lives, due to their complex reaction mechanisms and slow kinetics. This paper delves into the recent advancements in cathode catalysts for Li–CO2 batteries, with a specific focus on the designing philosophy from composition, geometry, and homogeneity of the catalysts to the proper test conditions and real‐world application. It surveys the possible catalytic mechanisms, giving readers a brief introduction of how the energy is stored and released as well as the critical exploration of the relationship between material properties and performances. Specifically, optimization and standardization of test conditions for Li–CO2 battery research is highlighted to enhance data comparability, which is also critical to facilitate the practical application of Li–CO2 batteries. This review aims to bring up inspiration from previous work to advance the design of more effective and sustainable cathode catalysts, tailored to meet the practical demands of Li–CO2 batteries.
Pyroptotic‐Spatiotemporally Selective Delivery of siRNA against Pyroptosis and Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Pan Zongyou , Xu Kaiwang , Huang Guanrui , Hu Haoran , Yang Huang , Shen Haotian , Qiu Kaijie , Wang Canlong , Xu Tengjing , Yu Xinning , Fang Jinhua , Wang Jiajie , Lin Yunting , Dai Jiacheng , Zhong Yuting , Song Hongyun , Zhu Sunan , Wang Siheng , Zhou Zhuxing , Sun Chuyue , Tang Zhaopeng , Liao Shiyao , Yang Guang , You Zhiyuan , Dai Xuesong , Mao Zhengwei
Published: July 2024

Small‐interfering RNAs (siRNAs) offer promising prospects for treating pyroptosis‐related autoimmune diseases. However, poor stability and off‐target effects during in vivo transportation hinder their practical clinical applications. Precision delivery and adaptive release of siRNAs into inflamed tissues and immune cells could unleash their full therapeutic potential. This study establishes a pyroptotic‐spatiotemporally selective siRNA delivery system (PMRC@siGSDME) that selectively targets inflammatory tissues, responds to pyroptosis, and exhibits remarkable therapeutic efficacy against various autoimmune diseases. Novel hybrid nanovesicles (NVs) are designed as a combination of pyroptotic macrophage membranes (PMs) and R8‐cardiolipin‐containing nanovesicles (RC‐NVs). Evidence provides that PM‐derived proteins involved in cell–cell interactions and membrane trafficking may contribute to the specificity of NVs to inflammatory tissue. In addition, cardiolipin anchored in the hybrid NVs increases its affinity for activated gasdermin E (GSDME) and achieves pyroptosis‐adaptive release of siGSDME for the spatiotemporally selective suppression of immune responses. More importantly, PMRC@siGSDME displays significant anti‐inflammatory and therapeutic effects in multiple mouse autoimmune disease models, including arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Collectively, an innovative siRNA delivery strategy precisely tailored for pyroptotic cells has been developed, paving the way for new treatments for autoimmune inflammatory diseases with minimal side effects and wide clinical applicability.
High‐Detectivity All‐Polymer Photodiode Empowers Smart Vitality Surveillance and Computational Imaging Rivaling Silicon Diodes
Authors: Chandran Hrisheekesh Thachoth , Ma Ruijie , Xu Zhihan , Veetil Jipsa Chelora , Luo Yongmin , Dela Peña Top Archie , Gunasekaran Iyappan , Mahadevan Sudhi , Liu Kuan , Xiao Yin , Xia Hao , Wu Jiaying , Li Mingjie , Tsang Sai‐Wing , Yu Xinge , Chen Wen , Li Gang
Published: July 2024

Near‐infrared (NIR) organic photodetectors (OPDs), particularly all‐polymer‐based ones, hold substantial commercial promise in the healthcare and imaging sectors. However, the process of optimizing their active layer composition to achieve highly competitive figures of merit lacks a clear direction and methodology. In this work, celebrity polymer acceptor PY‐IT into a more NIR absorbing host system PBDB‐T:PZF‐V, to significantly enhance the photodetection competence, is introduced. The refined all‐polymer ternary broadband photodetector demonstrates superior performance metrics, including experimentally measured noise current as low as 6 fA Hz−1/2, specific detectivity reaching 8 × 1012 Jones, linear dynamic range (LDR) of 145 dB, and swift response speed surpassing 200 kHz, striking a fair balance between sensitivity and response speed. Comprehensive morphological and photophysical characterizations elucidate the mechanisms behind the observed performance enhancements in this study, which include reduced trap density, enhanced charge transport, diminished charge recombination, and balanced electron/hole mobilities. Moreover, the practical deployment potential of the proof‐of‐concept device in self‐powered mode is demonstrated through their application in a machine learning‐based cuffless blood pressure (BP) estimation system and in high‐resolution computational imaging across complex environments, where they are found to quantitatively rival commercial silicon diodes.
Ultrafast Electron‐Transfer Via Hybrid States at Perovskite/Fullerene Interface
Authors: Guan Zhiqiang , Li Yang , Man Ping , Tan Hongji , Wei Qi , Liu Jinjie , Li Mingjie , Ly Thuc Hue , Yin Jun , Lee Chun‐Sing
Published: July 2024

Interfacial charge‐transfer between perovskite and charge‐transport layers plays a key role in determining performance of perovskite solar cells. The conventional viewpoint emphases the necessity of favorable energy‐level alignment of the two components. In recent reports, efficient electron‐transfer is observed from perovskite to fullerene‐based electron‐transport layers even when there are unfavorable energy‐level alignments, but the mechanism is still unclear. Here, using an ultrafast in situ two‐photon photoelectron spectroscopy, real‐time observations of electron‐transfer processes at CsPbI3/C60 interface in both temporal and energetic dimensions are reported. Due to strong electronic coupling, a large amount of interfacial hybrid states is generated at the interfaces, aiding fast photoinduced electron‐transfer in ≈124 fs. This process is further verified by nonadiabatic molecular dynamics simulations and transient absorption experiments. The short timescale explains why electron‐transfer can overcome unfavorable energy‐level alignments, providing a guideline for device design.
Confining Iodine into Metal‐Organic Framework Derived Metal‐Nitrogen‐Carbon for Long‐Life Aqueous Zinc‐Iodine Batteries
Authors: Guo Xiaotian , Xu Hengyue , Tang Yijian , Yang Zhangbin , Dou Fei , Li Wenting , Li Qing , Pang Huan
Published: July 2024

Aqueous zinc–iodine batteries (AZIBs) are highly appealing for energy requirements owing to their safety, cost‐effectiveness, and scalability. However, the inadequate redox kinetics and severe shuttling effect of polyiodide ions impede their commercial viability. Herein, several Zn‐MOF‐derived porous carbon materials are designed, and the further preparation of iron–doped porous carbon (Fe–N–C, M9) with varied Fe doping contents is optimized based on a facile self‐assembly/carbonization approach. M9, with atomic Fe coordinated to nitrogen atoms, is employed as an efficient cathode host for AZIBs. Functional modifications of porous carbon hosts involving the doping species and levels are investigated. The adsorption tests, in situ Raman spectroscopy, and in situ UV–vis results demonstrate the adsorption capability and charge‐discharge mechanism for the iodine species. Furthermore, experimental findings and theoretical analyses have proven that the redox conversion of iodine is enhanced through a physicochemical confinement effect. This study offers basic principles for the strategic design of single‐atom dispersed carbon as an iodine host for high‐performance AZIBs. Flexible soft–pack battery and wearable microbattery applications also have implications for future long‐life aqueous battery designs.
Effect of Lignin Particle Size on the Properties of Cellulose Nanofiber/Lignin Composite Sheets
Authors: Inoue Yasuaki , Putera Kevin H. , van ‘t Hag Leonie , Batchelor Warren
Published: July 2024

Cellulose and lignin have been widely studied to develop a bio‐based alternative to replace fossil‐based packaging materials and coatings. Lignin can be used to improve the water vapor barrier properties of cellulose‐based sheets due to its hydrophobicity. In this study, composite sheets based on cellulose nanofiber (CNF) and lignin are formed via spray deposition the effects of lignin particle size and concentration on the properties of the composite sheets are investigated. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy with infrared spectroscopy analysis show that lignin nanoparticles (LNPs, particle diameter <100 nm) migrate to the top surface during drying to form a dense layer. The water vapor permeability of the sheet including LNPs is reduced to 4.5 × 10−11 g·s−1·m−1·Pa−1, which is ≈20% lower than the value for CNF alone. This improvement is related to the dense LNP layer on the top surface. Water contact angle measurements indicate that the layer of LNPs also increases the surface hydrophobicity. Overall, this study provides a simple process to produce a fully bio‐based option for packaging material with enhanced water vapor barrier properties and surface hydrophobicity.
Generalized Huygens' Condition as the Fulcrum of Planar Nonlocal Omnidirectional Transparency: From Meta‐Atoms to Metasurfaces
Authors: Shaham Amit , Epstein Ariel
Published: July 2024

Fresnel reflection has been known for centuries to fundamentally impede efficient transmittance across planar interfaces, especially at grazing incidence. In this work, the generalized Huygens' condition (GHC) is introduced to resolve such intricacies in metasurface (MS) designs and allow omnidirectional transparency. Compared to common numerical metamaterial approaches, the analytical framework herein yields surprisingly simple closed‐form conditions, carefully leveraging the natural nonlocal mechanisms endowed in planar electromagnetic structures. At the meta‐atom level, the GHC is met by balancing traditional tangential susceptibilities of Huygens' MSs with their unconventional normal counterparts; the latter facilitates the key requisite of vanishing backscattering at the challenging grazing incidence scenario. At the MS level, this central insight is sheerly utilized to engineer realistic all‐angle transparent printed‐circuit‐board (PCB) cascaded admittance sheets. Thoroughly validated in simulation and experiment, this universal GHC demonstrates a resourceful venue for practical implementation of advanced nonlocal devices, e.g., flat optical components, optical analog computers, and spaceplates.
Communicating the use of artificial intelligence in agricultural and environmental research
Authors: Daigh Aaron Lee M. , Daroub Samira H. , Kyveryga Peter M. , Sorrells Mark E. , Rajan Nithya , Ippolito James A. , Kailer Endy , Booth Christine S. , Acharya Umesh , Ghimire Deepak , Das Saurav , Maharjan Bijesh , Ge Yufeng
Published: July 2024

Transformative technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) make difficult tasks more accessible and convenient. Since 2018, the use of AI in research has increased drastically, with annual publication rates of 3–5 times higher than pre‐2017. Currently, >100,000 manuscripts using AI are published annually within science and engineering, and >20,000 of these belong to the agricultural and environmental fields. Given the magnitude of use, clear communication on how AI is used and how it helps advance scientific knowledge is essential. Clear communication is perhaps more necessary with AI than previous technologies due to its broad and flexible spectrum of uses, the “black‐box” nature of deep‐learning algorithms, and ongoing debates regarding AI's predictive power versus knowledge of first‐principles mechanistic and process‐based theories and models. In this commentary, we provide guidelines and discussion points to the scientific community to ensure transparent and effective communication of AI research in agricultural and environmental research publications.
Impact of split nitrogen applications on nitrate leaching and maize yield in irrigated loamy sand soils of Northeast Nebraska
Authors: Singh Arshdeep , Rudnick Daran , Snow Daniel D. , Proctor Christopher , Puntel Laila , Iqbal Javed
Published: July 2024

Little information is available on optimizing the number of nitrogen (N) splits based on nitrate (NO3‐N) leaching and maize yield in sandy soils. To address this gap, we evaluated the impact of multiple N splits (2‐, 3‐, 4‐, and 5‐N splits) on NO3‐N leaching and maize (Zea mays L.) grain yield in irrigated loamy sand soil at a producer site in the Bazile Groundwater Management Area of Northeast Nebraska. Porous suction cup lysimeters were installed at a depth of 120 cm to collect pore water samples from 23 leaching events in 2021, a dry year. Increasing the number of N‐splits did not affect the pore‐water NO3‐N concentration; however, it was 169%, 152%, 150%, and 129% higher in 2‐, 3‐, 4‐, and 5‐N split treatments compared to control, that is, without N application. Though the 2‐, 3‐, 4‐, and 5‐N splits had 110%, 71%, 120%, and 91% higher area‐based NO3‐N leaching than the control, less deep percolation and more evapotranspiration in control led to no significant differences in area‐based NO3‐N leaching among all treatments. All N‐splits resulted in higher maize yield, nitrogen use efficiency, plant N uptake, harvest index, and aboveground biomass than control; however, the number of N‐splits did not affect these parameters. The inclusion of environmental cost reduced the return to nitrogen by 92–143 $ ha−1 across all N‐split treatments but did not significantly affect the differences among the splits. Overall, the results indicate that increasing the number of N‐splits does not provide agronomic, economic, and environmental benefits in irrigated maize fields during a dry year.
A Straightforward Approach of Wet‐Spinning Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):Polystyrene Sulfate Fibers for Use in All Conducting Polymer‐Based Textile Actuators
Authors: Bruns Mathis , Mehraeen Shayan , Martinez Jose G. , Mersch Johannes , Kruppke Iris , Jager Edwin W. H. , Cherif Chokri
Published: July 2024

Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), an inherently electrically conductive or conjugated polymer (CP), exhibits the potential to play a significant role in the development of innovative fiber materials for use in smart textiles, such as wearables. Furthermore, these fibers can function as artificial muscles in the emerging field of interactive fiber rubber composites. This study introduces a straightforward and efficient method for creating PEDOT‐based, biomimetic, fiber‐shaped, linearly contracting ionic electroactive polymer actuators. To achieve this, a wet‐spinning technique is presented, which enables a continuous production of PEDOT:polystyrene sulfate (PSS) fibers at high production rates of 34 m h−1, an additional fiber washing step and a sulfuric acid posttreatment step to increase the fibers conductivity. The fibers provide a high conductivity of 1028 S cm−1, maximum tensile strength reaching 182 MPa, and a maximum elongation of 24%. When utilized as CP actuators in an aqueous sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate electrolyte medium, the fibers demonstrate a repeatable maximum isometric contractile force of 1.64 mN and repeatable linear contractile strain up to 0.56%. Furthermore, a high level of cyclic long‐term actuation stability can be demonstrated. Notably, these contractile strains are, to the best of knowledge, the highest reported values for pristine PEDOT:PSS fibers.
Ladder‐Type Redox‐Active Polymer Achieves Ultra‐Stable and Fast Proton Storage in Aqueous Proton Batteries
Authors: He Jing , Shi Minjie , Wang Houxiang , Liu He , Yang Jun , Yan Chao , Zhao Jingxin , Yang Jia‐Lin , Wu Xing‐Long
Published: July 2024

A ladder‐type rigid‐coplanar polymer with highly ordered molecular arrangement has been designed via a covalent cycloconjugation conformational strategy. Benefitting from the extended π‐electron delocalization in the highly aromatic ladder‐type polymeric backbone, the prepared polymer exhibits fast intra‐chain charge transport along the polymeric chain, realizing extraordinary proton‐storage capability in aqueous proton batteries.Affordable and safe aqueous proton batteries (APBs) with unique “Grotthuss mechanism,” are very significant for advancing carbon neutrality initiatives. While organic polymers offer a robust and adaptable framework that is well‐suited for APB electrodes, the limited proton‐storage redox capacity has constrained their broader application. Herein, a ladder‐type polymer (PNMZ) has been designed via a covalent cycloconjugation conformational strategy that exhibits optimized electronic structure and fast intra‐chain charge transport within the high‐aromaticity polymeric skeleton. As a result, the polymer exhibits exceptional proton‐storage redox kinetics, which are evidenced by in‐operando monitoring techniques and theoretical calculations. It achieves a remarkable proton‐storage capacity of 189 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1 and excellent long‐term cycling stability, with approximately 97.8 % capacity retention over 10,000 cycles. Finally, a high‐performance all‐polymer APB device has been successfully constructed with a desirable capacity retention of 99.7 % after 6,000 cycles and high energy density of 56.3 Wh kg−1.
Small, Fluorinated Mn2+ Chelate as an Efficient 1H and 19F MRI Probe
Authors: Garda Zoltán , Szeremeta Frédéric , Quin Océane , Molnár Enikő , Váradi Balázs , Clémençon Rudy , Même Sandra , Pichon Chantal , Tircsó Gyula , Tóth Éva
Published: July 2024

We explore the potential of fluorine‐containing small Mn2+ chelates as alternatives to perfluorinated nanoparticles, widely used as 19F MRI probes. In MnL1, the cyclohexanediamine skeleton and two piperidine rings, involving each a metal‐coordinating amide group and an appended CF3 moiety, provide high rigidity to the complex. This allows for good control of the Mn−F distance (rMnF=8.2±0.2 Å determined from 19F relaxation data), as well as for high kinetic inertness (a dissociation half‐life of 1285 h is estimated for physiological conditions). The paramagnetic Mn2+ leads to a ~150‐fold acceleration of the longitudinal 19F relaxation, with moderate line‐broadening effect, resulting in T2/T1 ratios of 0.8 (9.4 T). Owing to its inner sphere water molecule, MnL1 is a good 1H relaxation agent as well (r1=5.36 mM−1 s−1 at 298 K, 20 MHz). MnL1 could be readily visualized in 19F MRI by using fast acquisition techniques, both in phantom images and living mice following intramuscular injection, with remarkable signal‐to‐noise ratios and short acquisition times. While applications in targeted imaging or cell therapy monitoring require further optimisation of the molecular structure, these results argue for the potential of such small, monohydrated and fluorinated Mn2+ complexes for combined 19F and 1H MRI detection.
Anatomy outreach: A conceptual model of shared purposes and processes
Authors: Dueñas Angelique N. , Tiffin Paul A. , Finn Gabrielle M.
Published: July 2024

Anatomy outreach is a well‐documented practice by many academic institutions, defined here as when anatomy‐related services are provided to external communities. However, most of the current literature on this topic is largely descriptive, focusing on the ‘what’ of anatomy‐related outreach, rather than the generalizable ‘why’ or ‘how’. There exists no shared conceptual model of what anatomy outreach tries to achieve from the perspective of ‘outreachers’, and how anatomists support these goals. Thus, this study aimed to explore the comprehension of anatomy outreach as a social phenomenon in the anatomy education community. This qualitative research used constructivist grounded theory to explore the perspectives of anatomists with experience facilitating anatomy outreach. A total of 18 participants completed semi‐structured interviews. Analysis resulted in the construction of nine broad categories of themes relating to anatomy outreach: types of outreach, specific activities, goals of outreach, subject benefit (why anatomy?), enablers, challenges, appraisal, motivators/drivers, and community perspectives from the immediate anatomy community and wider field (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and health professions education (HPE)). These results were constructed into a conceptual model of anatomy outreach. The findings suggest that anatomists view the subject matter as a socially connecting experience that can engage a wide variety of individuals. The multimodal nature of anatomy, combined with teaching expertise, lends well to productive outreach. Most ‘outreachers’ do not have a strong understanding of the impact of their activities, however, and operate on a level of optimism that activities will support diversity, belonging, and health/anatomical literacy.
A New High‐Performance Porous Carbon‐Coated Mn3O4/Na2CO3 Cathode for Suppressing Mn2+Dissolution in Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries
Authors: Pan Guangxing , Hu Yuanyuan , Wang Zhenyuan , Li Hao , Wu Dong , Zhang Ling , Zhang Jiaheng
Published: July 2024

Manganous‐manganic oxide (Mn3O4), akin to other manganese‐based oxides, faces several critical challenges such as substantial capacity fading and limited rate performance due to its inferior electrical conductivity, in addition to the inevitable dissociation of Mn2+. To address these issues, we introduce for the first time a novel carbon‐coated Mn3O4/Na2CO3 (Mn3O4/Na2CO3/C) composite material. Comprehensive characterizations indicate that Na2CO3 effectively curtails Mn2+dissolution, enhances carbon encapsulation throughout charging/discharging cycles, and exposes additional active sites on the Mn3O4/Na2CO3/C composite. Electrochemical assessments confirm that the Mn3O4/Na2CO3/C‐2 cathode exhibits exceptional electrochemical performance, outperforming other cathodes in the ZnSO4 system. Moreover, the Mn3O4/Na2CO3/C‐2 cathode delivers a high specific capacity of ~550 mAh gM−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and maintains a significant capacity of ~230 mAh g−1 after 360 cycles at 1.0 A g−1 within the 2.0 M ZnSO4+0.2 M MnSO4 electrolyte system, demonstrating its potential as a high‐performance cathode material for aqueous zinc‐ion batteries.
Regioselective Synthesis of 2,3‐Disubstituted Indoles via Interrupted Heyns Rearrangement Involving C−C Bond Cleavage
Authors: Altia Minakshi , Anbarasan Pazhamalai
Published: July 2024

A novel metal free, Brønsted acid mediated and operationally simple strategy has been developed for regioselective synthesis of 2,3‐disubstituted indoles from α‐hydroxyketones and o‐aminoaryl ketones in excellent yields. The reaction proceeds via interrupted Heyns rearrangement through the generation of aminoenol intermediate followed by intramolecular trapping and aromatization with C−C bond cleavage and release of corresponding ester. The mechanism was further supported by the identification of ester in GCMS and reaction of cyclic α‐hydroxydimethylketal, which afforded ester tethered indole derivative.
Resource Constraints Lead to Biased Attention but Decrease Unethical Behavior
Authors: Børsting Caroline K. , Elbæk Christian T. , Mitkidis Panagiotis , Hochman Guy
Published: July 2024

Subjective experiences of resource scarcity can make individuals short‐term oriented, capture attention, and trigger feelings of unfairness. However, the impact of scarcity on information processing and ethical decision‐making remains poorly understood. This eye‐tracking study explored how acute financial scarcity affects selective information search and ethical decision‐making in an economic task with competing incentives (N = 60, 12,000 observations). Results revealed that participants experiencing financial scarcity displayed a strong attentional bias towards financially tempting information, although they ultimately did not behave more unethically. These findings might reveal a “moral boundary” dictating when attentional biases translate into decision‐making. Our results contribute to understanding how individuals in scarcity contexts process and prioritize information in ethical decision‐making, helping organizations and policymakers combat stereotypes surrounding resource‐deprived individuals, and design evidence‐based policy interventions promoting ethical behavior in financially scarce situations.
Firms' engagement with sustainable development goals (SDGs): A scoping review of empirical works
Authors: Urbieta Laida
Published: July 2024

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have emerged as a relevant framework for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at the firm level. Despite the recent proliferation of articles about firms' engagement with SDGs within a short span of time, empirical literature in this field is still in its early stages, and has not yet been organized. While a set of literature reviews have analyzed the impact of SDGs at the organizational or firm level, none have specifically focused on empirical works at the company level. To address this gap, this article aims to review the empirical studies on firms' engagement with SDGs. A total number of 29 studies published in the 2015 to 2024 period were reviewed based on the scoping review methodology, in order to identify key concepts and research gaps. In terms of the primary focus of the studies examined, although a wide array of topics were explored in the early stage of the SDG literature, a notable theme emerged: the analysis of the determinants or factors driving companies to engage with SDGs. The article delves into the implications of the findings for managers, public policymakers and various stakeholders.
Early identification of severe immune checkpoint inhibitor associated myocarditis: From an electrocardiographic perspective
Authors: Gao Yongyin , Zhang Hongdian , Qiu Yanli , Bian Xueyan , Wang Xue , Li Yue
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)‐associated myocarditis, particularly severe ICI‐associated myocarditis, has a high mortality rate. However, the predictive value of electrocardiogram (ECG) remains unclear. The present study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of clinical and electrocardiographic parameters for severe myocarditis.

Methods

Clinical and electrocardiographic data of 73 cancer patients with ICI‐associated myocarditis were retrospectively collected. The severity of ICI‐associated myocarditis was graded using the NCCN guidelines for managing immunotherapy‐related toxicities. Myocarditis grades 1–2 and grades 3–4 were classified as mild and severe myocarditis, respectively. Logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the predictive value of each parameter in predicting severe myocarditis.

Results

Among the 73 patients with myocarditis, 20 (27.4%) patients had severe myocarditis. Compared with mild myocarditis group, sinus tachycardia (p = 0.001), QRS duration ≥110 ms (p = 0.001), prolonged QTc interval (p < 0.001), and bundle branch block (p = 0.007) at the time of myocarditis were more common in the severe myocarditis group. Logistic regression analysis revealed that sinus tachycardia (p = 0.028) and QTc interval prolongation (p = 0.007) were predictors of severe myocarditis. Whereas the predictive value of other electrocardiographic parameters was weak. Concurrent targeted therapy didn't increase the risk of severe myocarditis. A high NT‐proBNP level was associated with severe myocarditis.

Conclusions

ECG at the onset of myocarditis manifested as sinus tachycardia and prolonged QTc interval predicted a high risk of severe myocarditis. Early detection of ECG abnormalities may faciliate early detection of severe ICI‐associated myocarditis.
Dual enrollment equity pathways: A research‐based framework for expanding college and career opportunity for underserved students
Authors: Griffin Sarah , Steiger Jessica , Garcia Tulloch Aurely , Fink John , Jenkins Davis
Published: July 2024

This article introduces “dual enrollment equity pathways” (DEEP)—a research‐based framework for rethinking à la carte dual enrollment as a more equitable on‐ramp to college programs of study that lead to high‐opportunity careers for students historically underserved in dual enrollment. Using interview data collected from six sites (six community colleges and 12 of their high school partners) that have expanded access and early college success of underrepresented student groups through à la carte dual enrollment, the manuscript describes key themes and emerging evidence of DEEP related to each of the four practice areas of the DEEP framework: (1) outreach to underserved students and schools; (2) aligning dual enrollment to college degrees and careers in fields of interest; (3) early career and academic exploration, advising, and planning; and (4) high‐quality college instruction and academic support. The chapter concludes with considerations for how the DEEP framework influences dual enrollment practice.
Synergistic Effect of Single‐Atom Catalysts and Vacancies of Support for Versatile Catalytic Applications
Authors: Cai Dongxi , Zhang Jie , Kong Zhe , Li Zesheng
Published: July 2024

The combination of single‐atom catalysts and vacancy engineering is an emerging hotspot in the field of single‐atom catalysis. The existence of vacancies provides additional adsorption sites, which can increase the adsorption capacity and diffusion rate of reactant molecules. Single atoms have single‐height atom utilization and steric hindrance effects. The two synergistically show different activation and synergistic processes on different defect materials. Under the synergistic effect of vacancies and single‐atom catalysts, they can affect the adsorption orientation of reactants on the catalyst surface and the formation of intermediate configurations, thereby regulating the reaction path and product selectivity, greatly enhancing the catalytic performance, and maximizing the catalytic effect of the material itself. Therefore, the synergistic effect between pervacancies and single‐atom catalysts can realize more efficient, sustainable, and economical catalytic reaction systems, possessing high‐efficiency performance in photocatalysis, electrocatalysis and thermocatalysis, and setting off a new wave in the fields of energy conversion, environmental protection, and organic synthesis. Therefore, catalysts constructed by vacancies and single atoms have broad and bright application prospects.
Plasma‐Assisted Surface Engineering to Stabilize Mn3+ in Electrodeposited Manganese Oxide Films for Water Oxidation
Authors: Qin Chu , Tian Shijun , Wu Jialong , Mou Junliang , Feng Lan , Jiang Zhongqing
Published: July 2024

Manganese oxide is a unique type of transition metal oxide that effectively functions as a catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Here, manganese oxide (MnOx) polymorphs are synthesized through electrochemical deposition and treated with an atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ). The APPJ surface treatment can generate numerous oxygen vacancies and modify the crystallinity of the MnOx films, which can enhance the long‐term stability of the MnOx films by stabilizing the Mn3+ content in the highly oxidizing environment. The increase in Mn3+ content and concentration of oxygen vacancies in the material synergistically increase the adsorption capacity of OH* and the electron‐transferring capacity of MnOx films in the OER process, making them more stable and effective for OER. MnOx films treated with APPJ exhibit significantly higher activity, better stability, and lower Tafel slopes for OER than untreated MnOx films. The MnOx films treated with APPJ can remain stable for up to 92 hours during OER with a current density of 10 mA cm−2, with an onset overpotential of 310 mV. This strategy, which combines APPJ surface treatment techniques with electrodeposition methods, is innovative in the surface modification of manganese oxides with mixed valences to create OER catalysts with stable Mn3+ content.
Hydrogenation‐Rearrangement of Furfural over Cu‐based Catalysts with Abundant Lewis Acid Sites
Authors: Liu Libin , Si Yuxi , Zhao Wenjie , Zhu Qingqin , Yang Zhaoran , He Jing , Huang Yangqiang , Cheng Youwei
Published: July 2024

Cyclopentanone (CPO) and cyclopentanol (CPL), derived from renewable biomass resource hemicellulose, are considered sustainable chemicals that can substitute fossil‐based products, which could be obtained through the hydrogenation‐rearrangement reaction of furfural (FFA). However, the inevitable condensation reactions of FFA and furfuryl alcohol (FA) in aqueous solutions generate humins and result in carbon loss, limiting the industrial application of this process. Herein, a series of Cu‐based catalysts were synthesized using the reverse co‐precipitation method with various metal promoters and applied in the FFA hydrogenation‐rearrangement reaction. The highest yield of 97.1 % CPO/CPL achieved in a typical reaction condition at 200 °C, 4 MPa, in 20 wt % isopropanol‐water mixed solvent over CuZnZr catalyst and the recyclability test confirmed that the catalyst had excellent stability. Experimental studies and characterizations showed that the enhanced performance could be attributed to the adequate Lewis acid sites, regulated through the synergistic interaction between Cu, Zn, and Zr compounds. The simultaneous introduction of Zn and Zr promotes the Cu reduction, and results in more dispersed Cu0 and Cu+, providing an ample and reliable active site. This study outlines a viable method for the catalyst designing and valorizing biomass into high‐value‐added products.
Ti3C2Tz Supported Pulse‐Electrodeposited Pt Nanostructures for Enhanced Acidic Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Chakrabartty Sukanta , Parse Haridas , Krämer Mathias , Kim Se‐Ho , Raabe Dierk , Gault Baptiste , Sokol Maxim , Rosen Brian A. , Eliaz Noam
Published: July 2024

Platinum (Pt)‐based electrocatalysts are considered benchmark materials for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in acidic solution. However, widespread use is limited by the high price of Pt. Tuning the Pt morphology to increase the catalytic surface area for the same mass loading is therefore essential to increase its utilization. Herein, single Ti3C2Tz flakes were deposited by electrophoresis onto a carbon‐fiber gas diffusion layer, after which Pt nanostructures were selectively deposited onto the Ti3C2Tz flakes by pulse electrodeposition. It was observed that the pulse on‐time (ton) and duration had a significant effect on the morphology and activity of the composite electrode towards HER. Flower‐like and spherical morphologies were produced at long and short values of ton, respectively. As‐synthesized electrocatalysts were studied for HER in 0.5 M sulfuric acid (H2SO4). The catalyst with the lowest Pt loading (10 μg/cm2), exhibited outstanding HER performance. It attained a current density of 10 mA/cm2 at an overpotential of 38 mV, close to that of commercial carbon supported platinum (Pt/C, Vulcan XC). This catalyst exhibited a high turnover frequency (23.9 H2 s−1 @ 100 mV), small Tafel slope (41 mV/dec), and high mass‐specific activity (2.45 A/mgPt @ 100 mV).
On the Role of Radial Dispersion in the Behavior of a Cooled Fixed‐Bed Reactor: Numerical Investigation of Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis with a Cobalt‐Based Catalyst
Authors: Kern Christoph , Jess Andreas
Published: July 2024

The impact of radial dispersion of both heat and mass on the behavior of cooled fixed‐bed reactors was explored using a two‐dimensional reactor model. This study accounted for dispersion through an effective radial thermal conductivity (λrad) and a radial dispersion coefficient of mass (Drad), with Fischer–Tropsch synthesis serving as an illustrative process example. Under moderate reaction conditions and hence still rather gentle radial temperature profiles, the effect of mass dispersion on reactor performance was found to be minimal, even if disregarded (Drad = 0), whereas dispersion of heat (λrad) always significantly impacts reactor behavior. Nevertheless, for precise thermal runaway predictions by a reactor model, incorporating mass dispersion by a realistic Drad value is essential.
X‐Ray Computed Tomography Meets Robust Chemometric Latent Space Modeling for Lean Meat Percentage Prediction in Pig Carcasses
Authors: Mishra Puneet , Font‐i‐Furnols Maria
Published: July 2024

This study presents a case of processing X‐ray computed tomography (CT) data for pork scans using chemometric latent space modeling. The distribution of voxel intensities is shown to exemplify a multivariate, multi‐collinear signal mixture. While this concept is not novel, it is revisited here from a chemometric perspective. To extract meaningful information from such multivariate signals, latent space modeling based on partial least squares (PLS) is an ideal solution. Furthermore, a robust PLS approach is even more effective for latent space modeling, as it can extract latent spaces unaffected by outliers, thereby enhancing predictive modeling. As an example, lean meat percentage is predicted using X‐ray CT data and robust PLS regression. This method is applicable to X‐ray CT quantification analysis, particularly in cases where unclear, erroneous, and outlying observations are suspected in the data.
Phosphorous and Nitrogen Dual‐Doped Carbon as a Highly Efficient Electrocatalyst for Sodium‐Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Guo Haipeng , Wu Chang , Shu Chaozhu , Hu Zhe , Gebert Florian , Gu Qin‐Fen , Konstantinov Konstantin , Sharma Shailendra Kumar , Marshall Aaron T. , Yang Weishen , Chou Shu‐Lei , Liu Hua‐Kun , Wang Jia‐Zhao
Published: July 2024

Sodium‐oxygen batteries have been regarded as promising energy storage devices due to their low overpotential and high energy density. Its applications, however, still face formidable challenges due to the lack of understanding about the influence of electrocatalysts on the discharge products. Here, a phosphorous and nitrogen dual‐doped carbon (PNDC) based cathode is synthesized to increase the electrocatalytic activity and to stabilize the NaO2 superoxide nanoparticle discharge products, leading to enhanced cycling stability when compared to the nitrogen‐doped carbon (NDC). The PNDC air cathode exhibits a low overpotential (0.36 V) and long cycling stability (120 cycles). The reversible formation/decomposition and stabilization of the NaO2 discharge products are clearly proven by in‐situ synchrotron X‐ray diffraction and ex‐situ X‐ray diffraction. Based on the density functional theory calculation, the PNDC has much stronger adsorption (−2.85 eV) for NaO2 than that of NDC (−1.80 eV), which could efficiently stabilize the NaO2 discharge products.
Neptunyl Pyrrophen Complexes: Exploring Schiff Base Chemistry with Multidentate Acyclic Ligands and Transuranics
Authors: Ducilon John , Nicholas Aaron D. , Surbella Robert G. , Gorden Anne E. V.
Published: July 2024

We report the synthesis, structure, and characterization of two novel neptunyl complexes (NpO2L1 and NpO2L2) constructed from phenylene‐substituted benzyl ester bis(pyrrole)phenylenediamine (named “pyrrophen”) ligands. In both cases, the neptunium center exists in the +6 oxidation state,. As our specific interest is in exploring the chemistry of neptunium compounds containing the linear neptunyl ion (NpO22+) through equatorially coordinating the metal by multidentate organic ligands, we have identified the differences that are likely to cause discrepancy between the two complexes by examining the ions and their coordinative environments through single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography, diffuse reflectance, and Raman spectroscopy. This is the first time pyrrophen has been utilized in Np chemistry and demonstrates a new platform to study 5 f electron participation and coordination.
Investigating the Irreversible Poisoning of Methanol Synthesis Catalysts – A Setup Construction Guide
Authors: Schwiderowski Philipp , Nikolaidis Konstantinos , Laudenschleger Daniel , Bekx Michel , Muhler Martin
Published: July 2024

When utilizing industrial exhaust gases for methanol synthesis, catalyst poisoning is an important issue. Long‐term in‐situ poisoning under industrially relevant conditions with sulfur‐containing molecules co‐fed into the feed gas flow and supplemented by extensive post‐mortem characterization of the catalyst bed is an efficient way to deepen the understanding of the poisoning mechanism and the different poisoning strengths of H2S, thiophene, and COS reported in literature. Unfortunately, such studies are rare due to the corrosive effects of sulfur compounds on typical lab‐scale flow setups. Therefore, this communication provides a detailed description of a setup built for poisoning studies using sulfur‐containing molecules under industrially relevant methanol synthesis conditions.
Rapid determination of the antimicrobial properties of surfaces using an enzymatic activity surrogate
Authors: Tanvir Shazia , Kaur Amandeep , Anderson William A.
Published: July 2024

Typical approaches for assessing the antimicrobial activity of metals‐based surfaces involve the contact of a bacterial culture with the surface for a period of time, followed by culturing on agar plates to assess the decrease in microbial viability versus controls. This is a time‐consuming methodology requiring at least 24 h to produce a set of results, which can be a bottleneck for productivity in novel materials development. An enzyme‐based method was shown to be a satisfactory and much more rapid surrogate test for this application. A β‐galactosidase solution was applied to copper, silver, and zinc‐based antimicrobial surfaces for up to 1 h, and then the rate of colour development at 578 nm was monitored for a few minutes after addition of the chromogenic enzyme substrate chlorophenol red‐β‐d‐galactopyranoside (CPRG). Highly active antimicrobial surfaces were detected by a lack of colour development, due to enzyme inhibition by the metals. The enzymatic reaction rates were quantified and compared, demonstrating that the copper sample showed the greatest inhibition effect followed by the silver and zinc samples. The antimicrobial activity was quantified using bacteria and the plate count method, and the results correlated well with this enzyme assay, demonstrating that the metals‐based antimicrobial activities of both hard and soft (textile) surfaces could be quickly assessed with this enzyme‐based methodology.
Pharmacokinetic and Bioequivalence Evaluation of Dihydroxyaluminum Aminoacetate, Heavy Magnesium Carbonate, and Aspirin Tablets in Healthy Chinese Subjects in the Fasting and Postprandial Conditions
Authors: Yao Fang , He Yingxia , Lu Pan , Wang Jie , Xie Yafang , Li Xiuwen , Liu Qiangwei , Liu Yang , Cao Dan , Liang Jun , Liu Guan
Published: July 2024

Dihydroxyaluminum aminoacetate, heavy magnesium carbonate, and aspirin tablets is a new combined aspirin preparation, each containing aspirin (81 mg), dihydroxyaluminum aminoacetate (11 mg), and heavy magnesium carbonate (22 mg). This study was conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetic (PK) and bioequivalence in healthy Chinese subjects. This randomized, open‐label, single‐dose, 2‐sequence, and 2‐period crossover study included 78 healthy volunteers (fasting, n = 36; postprandial, n = 42). Blood samples were collected for PK analysis. Aspirin and salicylic acid concentrations in human plasma were determined by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Safety and tolerability were monitored. There were no significant differences between the test and reference formulations in maximum plasma concentration, area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC) from time 0 to time t, or AUC from time 0 to infinity. The 90% confidence intervals of the test and reference formulations of maximum plasma concentration, AUC from time 0 to time t, and AUC from time 0 to infinity were within the acceptable range (80%‐125%) under fasting and postprandial conditions. All adverse events were mild and no serious adverse events were observed in the study. Both compounds were well tolerated in healthy Chinese volunteers.