bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulations in Superconductors: Probes of Underlying Physics
Authors: Guo Yehao , Qiu Dong , Shao Mingxin , Song Jingyan , Wang Yang , Xu Minyi , Yang Chao , Li Peng , Liu Haiwen , Xiong Jie
Published: December 2022

The importance of modulations is elevated to an unprecedented level, due to the delicate conditions required to bring out exotic phenomena in quantum materials, such as topological materials, magnetic materials, and superconductors. Recently, state‐of‐the‐art modulation techniques in material science, such as electric‐double‐layer transistor, piezoelectric‐based strain apparatus, angle twisting, and nanofabrication, have been utilized in superconductors. They not only efficiently increase the tuning capability to the broader ranges but also extend the tuning dimensionality to unprecedented degrees of freedom, including quantum fluctuations of competing phases, electronic correlation, and phase coherence essential to global superconductivity. Here, for a comprehensive review, these techniques together with the established modulation methods, such as elemental substitution, annealing, and polarization‐induced gating, are contextualized. Depending on the mechanism of each method, the modulations are categorized into stoichiometric manipulation, electrostatic gating, mechanical modulation, and geometrical design. Their recent advances are highlighted by applications in newly discovered superconductors, e.g., nickelates, Kagome metals, and magic‐angle graphene. Overall, the review is to provide systematic modulations in emergent superconductors and serve as the coordinate for future investigations, which can stimulate researchers in superconductivity and other fields to perform various modulations toward a thorough understanding of quantum materials.
Unraveling Polysulfide's Adsorption and Electrocatalytic Conversion on Metal Oxides for Li‐S Batteries
Authors: Deng Shungui , Guo Tiezhu , Heier Jakob , Zhang Chuanfang (John)
Published: December 2022

Lithium sulfur (LiS) batteries possess high theoretical capacity and energy density, holding great promise for next generation electronics and electrical vehicles. However, the LiS batteries development is hindered by the shuttle effect and sluggish conversion kinetics of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs). Designing highly polar materials such as metal oxides (MOs) with moderate adsorption and effective catalytic activity is essential to overcome the above issues. To design efficient MOs catalysts, it is critical and necessary to understand the adsorption mechanism and associated catalytic processes of LiPSs. However, most reviews still lack a comprehensive investigation of the basic mechanism and always ignore their in‐depth relationship. In this review, a systematic analysis toward understanding the underlying adsorption and catalytic mechanism in LiS chemistry as well as discussion of the typical works concerning MOs electrocatalysts are provided. Moreover, to improve the sluggish “adsorption‐diffusion‐conversion” process caused by the low conductive nature of MOs, oxygen vacancies and heterostructure engineering are elucidated as the two most effective strategies. The challenges and prospects of MOs electrocatalysts are also provided in the last section. The authors hope this review will provide instructive guidance to design effective catalyst materials and explore practical possibilities for the commercialization of LiS batteries.
Prodrug Integrated Envelope on Probiotics to Enhance Target Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Zhang Kun , Zhu Li , Zhong Yuan , Xu Lixin , Lang Chunhui , Chen Jian , Yan Fei , Li Jiawei , Qiu Juhui , Chen Yidan , Sun Da , Wang Guixue , Qu Kai , Qin Xian , Wu Wei
Published: December 2022

Ulcerative colitis (UC), affecting millions of patients worldwide, is associated with disorders of the gut microbiota. Probiotics‐based therapy positively regulating the community structure of gut microbiota is regarded as an efficient intervention for UC. However, oral probiotics delivery is restricted by limited bioactivity, short retention time, complex pathological condition, and single therapeutic efficacy. Here, a bioengineered probiotic decorated with a multifunctional prodrug coating is constructed to ameliorate the aforementioned shortcomings. The results of UC mice induced by dextran sulfate sodium demonstrate that the intrinsic features of the fabricated coating integrate gut microbes protection, colon‐targeted drug release, prolonged drug retention, and inflammation regulation. In parallel, the probiotics Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) could regulate the composition of the gut microbiota and improve epithelial barrier function, thereby synergistically ameliorating UC. These results provide ample shreds of evidence of the therapeutic effect on UC, therefore, demonstrate a great promise as the potential therapeutic strategy for UC treatment.
A Transient Printed Soil Decomposition Sensor Based on a Biopolymer Composite Conductor
Authors: Atreya Madhur , Desousa Stacie , Kauzya John‐Baptist , Williams Evan , Hayes Austin , Dikshit Karan , Nielson Jenna , Palmgren Abigail , Khorchidian Sara , Liu Shangshi , Gopalakrishnan Anupam , Bihar Eloise , Bruns Carson J. , Bardgett Richard , Quinton John N. , Davies Jessica , Neff Jason C. , Whiting Gregory L.
Published: December 2022

Soil health is one of the key factors in determining the sustainability of global agricultural systems and the stability of natural ecosystems. Microbial decomposition activity plays an important role in soil health; and gaining spatiotemporal insights into this attribute is critical for understanding soil function as well as for managing soils to ensure agricultural supply, stem biodiversity loss, and mitigate climate change. Here, a novel in situ electronic soil decomposition sensor that relies on the degradation of a printed conductive composite trace utilizing the biopolymer poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) as a binder is presented. This material responds selectively to microbially active environments with a continuously varying resistive signal that can be readily instrumented with low‐cost electronics to enable wide spatial distribution. In soil, a correlation between sensor response and intensity of microbial decomposition activity is observed and quantified by comparison with respiration rates over 14 days, showing that devices respond predictably to both static conditions and perturbations in general decomposition activity.
Stimuli‐Responsive Sponge for Imaging and Measuring Weak Compression Stresses
Authors: Ono Nahoko , Seishima Ryo , Okabayashi Koji , Imai Hiroaki , Fujii Syuji , Oaki Yuya
Published: December 2022

Imaging and measuring compression stresses secure a safe and healthy life. Compression stresses in kPa range are not easily detected by conventional mechanoresponsive materials because microscopic molecular motion of the chromophores is not induced by such weak stresses. Moreover, imaging of the stress distribution is not achieved so far. The present study shows a sponge device combining two stimuli‐responsive materials, a capsule releasing interior liquid and color‐changing polymer in responses to compression stress and chemical stimulus, respectively. The stimuli‐responsive capsule is dispersed on a melamine sponge comprised of the fibers with coating the layered polydiacetylene (PDA). The application of weak compression stresses induces collapse of the capsules, outflow of the interior liquid, and subsequent irreversible color change of PDA. The cascading response in the sponge device colorimetrically enables imaging of the distribution and measuring the strength of the compression stresses in kPa range. Furthermore, the device demonstrates imaging and measuring unknown weak compression stresses applied by the irregular‐shaped objects. A couple of clinical issues in surgical operation of intestine are studied using the stress‐imaging sponge device. The device and its design strategy can be applied to stress imaging in a variety of fields.
Recent Advances in Conduction Mechanisms, Synthesis Methods, and Improvement Strategies for Li1+xAlxTi2−x(PO4)3 Solid Electrolyte for All‐Solid‐State Lithium Batteries
Authors: Wu Pengfei , Zhou Weiwei , Su Xin , Li Jianyu , Su Min , Zhou Xiaochong , Sheldon Brian W. , Lu Wenquan
Published: December 2022

With the increasing use of Li batteries for storage, their safety issues and energy densities are attracting considerable attention. Recently, replacing liquid organic electrolytes with solid‐state electrolytes (SSE) has been hailed as the key to developing safe and high‐energy‐density Li batteries. In particular, Li1+xAlxTi2−x(PO4)3 (LATP) has been identified as a very attractive SSE for Li batteries due to its excellent electrochemical stability, low production costs, and good chemical compatibility. However, interfacial reactions with electrodes and poor thermal stability at high temperatures severely restrict the practical use of LATP in solid‐state batteries (SSB). Herein, a systematic review of recent advances in LATP for SSBs is provided. This review starts with a brief introduction to the development history of LATP and then summarizes its structure, ion transport mechanism, and synthesis methods. Challenges (e.g., intrinsic brittleness, interfacial resistance, and compatibility) and corresponding solutions (ionic substitution, additives, protective layers, composite electrolytes, etc.) that are critical for practical applications are then discussed. Last, an outlook on the future research direction of LATP‐based SSB is provided.
2‐Arylbenzyl Methyl Ethers as Precursors for the Tandem Synthesis of Benzo[c]coumarins Over Heterogeneous Visible‐Light Photoredox Catalysis with Graphitic Carbon Nitride (g‐C3N4)
Authors: Natarajan Palani , Pooja  , Meena
Published: December 2022

Utilizing readily accessible 2‐arylbenzyl methyl ethers as precursors, an unprecedented three reactions in one‐pot protocol for the synthesis of benzo[c]coumarins over heterogeneous visible‐light photoredox catalysis with graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) has been developed. Also, a possible reaction mechanism has been explored. Upon irradiation, g‐C3N4 converts molecular oxygen into superoxide radical anion, which facilitates the benzylic oxidation of 2‐arylbenzyl methyl ethers into methyl [1,1′‐biaryl]‐2‐carboxylate. The required benzo[c]coumarins are then produced through the hydrolysis and dehydrogenative lactonization of methyl [1,1′‐biaryl]‐2‐carboxylate. The main attributes of this transformation include mildness, convenience in catalyst recovery and reuse, compatibility with lithium persulfate produced from the spent lithium‐ion batteries, works in aqueous medium, and is a multiple C−H functionalization processes happen via three reactions (oxidation, hydrolysis and dehydrogenative lactonization) in one‐pot at ambient conditions.
Fully Delocalized Mixed‐Valent Cu1.5Cu1.5 Complex: Strong Cu‐Cu interaction and Fast Electron Self‐Exchange Rate Despite Large Structural Changes**
Authors: Liu Yang , Resch Stefan G. , Chen Haowei , Dechert Sebastian , Demeshko Serhiy , Bill Eckhard , Ye Shengfa , Meyer Franc
Published: December 2022

A flexible macrocyclic ligand with two tridentate {CNC} compartments can host two Cu ions in reversibly interconvertible states, CuICuI (1) and mixed‐valent Cu1.5Cu1.5 (2). They were characterized by XRD and multiple spectroscopic methods, including EPR, UV/Vis absorption and MCD, in combination with TD‐DFT and CASSCF calculations. 2 features a short Cu⋅⋅⋅Cu distance (≈2.5 Å; compared to ≈4.0 Å in 1) and a very high delocalization energy of 13 000 cm−1, comparable to the mixed‐valent state of the biological CuA site. Electron self‐exchange between 1 and 2 is rapid despite large structural reorganization, and is proposed to proceed via a sequential mechanism involving an active conformer of 1, viz. 1′; the latter has been characterized by XRD. Such electron transfer (ET) process is reminiscent of the conformationally gated ET proposed for biological systems. This redox couple is a unique pair of flexible dicopper complexes, achieving fast electron self‐exchange closely related to the function of the CuA site.
Probing the Nature of Zinc in Copper‐Zinc‐Zirconium Catalysts by Operando Spectroscopies for CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol
Authors: Yang Meng , Yu Jiafeng , Zimina Anna , Sarma Bidyut Bikash , Pandit Lakshmi , Grunwaldt Jan‐Dierk , Zhang Ling , Xu Hengyong , Sun Jian
Published: December 2022

Active Zn species in Cu‐based methanol synthesis catalysts have not been clearly identified yet due to their complex nature and dynamic structural changes during reactions. Herein, atomically dispersed Zn on ZrO2 support is established in Cu‐based catalysts by separating Zn and Zr components from Cu (Cu−ZnZr) via the double‐nozzle flame spray pyrolysis (DFSP) method. It exhibits superiority in methanol selectivity and yield compared to those with Cu−ZnO interface and isolated ZnO nanoparticles. Operando X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) reveals that the atomically dispersed Zn species are induced during the reaction due to the strengthened Zn−Zr interaction. They can suppress formate decomposition to CO and decrease the H2 dissociation energy, shifting the reaction to methanol production. This work enlightens the rational design of unique Zn species by regulating coordination environments and offers a new perspective for exploring complex interactions in multi‐component catalysts.
Copper‐Catalyzed Highly Enantioselective Addition of a Silicon Nucleophile to 3‐Substituted 2H‐Azirines Using an Si−B Reagent
Authors: Zhao Zhi‐Yuan , Cui Ming , Irran Elisabeth , Oestreich Martin
Published: December 2022

3‐Substituted 2H‐azirines can be considered strained cyclic ketimines, and highly enantioselective addition reactions of silicon nucleophiles to either acyclic or cyclic ketimines have been elusive so far. The present work closes this gap for those azirines by means of a copper‐catalyzed silylation using a silyl boronic ester as a latent silicon nucleophile. The resulting C‐silylated, unprotected (N−H) aziridines are obtained in high yields and with excellent enantioselectivities and can be further converted into valuable compounds with hardly any erosion of the enantiomeric excess.
Designing a colorimetric nanosensor based on dithizone and cholesteric liquid crystals loaded in electrospun cellulose acetate nanofibers: Monitoring the quality of pistachio as a case study
Authors: Ghorani Behrouz , Emadzadeh Bahareh , Fooladi Ebrahim , Tucker Nick
Published: December 2022

We describe colorimetric electrospun nanosensors designed to work at temperatures of 35–36°C. The mode of operations is based on a combination of the ability of dithizone to exhibit appropriate color and cholesteric liquid crystals presenting a wide range of melting points at various mixing ratios. To this end, different levels of dithizone (IUPAC name 1‐anilino‐3‐phenyliminothiourea), different ratios of cholesteric liquid crystals to cellulose acetate and cholesteryl oleyl carbonate to cholesteryl nanoate were defined as independent variables and the total color difference was considered as the response in the response surface methodology approach. The results showed that the range of color palette changes of the designed samples was diverse and could be applied to different products. As a case study, the applicability of the sensor was evaluated on the 4‐month shelf life of pistachio nuts at 35°C whilst the spoilage criteria were reconciled with the color changes in the designed sensor.
Topical application of gemcitabine generates microvesicle particles in human and murine skin
Authors: Thyagarajan Anita , Awasthi Krishna , Rapp Christine M. , Johnson R. Michael , Chen Yanfang , Miller Kelly L. R. , Travers Jeffrey B. , Sahu Ravi P.
Published: December 2022

Chemotherapy has remained the mainstay for the treatment of multiple types of cancers. In particular, topical use of chemotherapy has been used for skin cancers. Though effective, topical chemotherapy has been limited due to adverse effects such as local and even systemic toxicities. Our recent studies demonstrated that exposure to pro‐oxidative stressors, including therapeutic agents induces the generation of extracellular vesicles known as microvesicle particles (MVP) which are dependent on activation of the Platelet‐activating factor‐receptor (PAFR), a G‐protein coupled receptor present on various cell types, and acid sphingomyelinase (aSMase), an enzyme required for MVP biogenesis. Based upon this premise, we tested the hypothesis that topical application of gemcitabine will induce MVP generation in human and murine skin. Our ex vivo studies using human skin explants demonstrate that gemcitabine treatment results in MVP generation in a dose‐dependent manner in a process blocked by PAFR antagonist and aSMase inhibitor. Importantly, gemcitabine‐induced MVPs carry PAFR agonists. To confirm the mechanisms, we employed PAFR‐expressing and deficient (Ptafr−/−) mouse models as well as mice deficient in aSMase enzyme (Spmd1−/−). Similar to the findings using pharmacologic tools, genetic‐based approaches demonstrate that gemcitabine‐induced MVP release in WT mice was blunted in Ptafr−/− and Spmd1−/− mice. These findings demonstrate a novel mechanism by which local chemotherapy can generate bioactive components as a bystander effect in a process that is dependent upon the PAFR‐aSMase pathway.
Automation in the simulation of processes with Aspen HYSYS: An academic approach
Authors: Valverde Jose L. , Ferro Victor R. , Giroir‐Fendler Anne
Published: December 2022

Aspen HYSYS is a typical tool used in some Master in Chemical Engineering courses at the University of Castilla‐La Mancha like “Analysis and Optimization of Chemical Processes” and “Dynamic of Process: Regulation of Chemical Plants.” Automation is the process of linking commercial software to third‐parties applications built in EXCEL‐Visual Basic for Applications. The capability of automation as a powerful tool for simulating unprecedented complex processes suggests that it could be a relevant background complement to the classical one offered by a university. In this sense, a seminar about automation based on the study of two cases: a refrigeration process and a production one taken from literature, has been proposed at the University of Castilla‐La Mancha. The analysis of the survey performed for the subject evaluation resulted to be very positive. Students consider the methodology of the course and the potentiality of automation for developing their research and professional skills appropriately. However, more examples are required to better understand the automation concept and its potential application to other situations. Finally, they declare that the concept of automation requires a lot of expertise and deep knowledge of programming and the correct application of numerical methods for solving complex problems.
Base‐Stabilized Neutral Oxoborane and Thioxoborane Supported by a Bis(oxazolinyl)(phenyl)methanide Ligand
Authors: Nakano Ryo , Yamanashi Ryotaro , Yamashita Makoto
Published: December 2022

Base‐stabilized neutral oxoborane and thioxoborane supported by a bis(oxazolinyl)(phenyl)methanide ligand have been synthesized and structurally characterized. While previous synthetic attempts of oxoborane ligated by β‐diketiminate (NacNac) did not allow for its isolation in acid‐free form, oxoborane supported by a bis(oxazolinyl)(phenyl)methanide ligand is isolable, due to the absence of imine ɑ‐protons and steric protection of enamine carbon. Crystallographic analysis revealed the presence of a B−O double bond close to the shortest end of the reported lengths. Its reactivity has also been examined, and it was majorly governed by the nucleophilicity and basicity of the oxygen atom. The chemical inertness and synthetic convenience of the bis(oxazolinyl)(phenyl)methanide scaffold presented in this work suggest its utility as an innocent alternative to the NacNac scaffold.
Monitoring of false lumen thrombosis in type B aortic dissection by impedance cardiography – A multiphysics simulation study
Authors: Badeli Vahid , Jafarinia Alireza , Melito Gian Marco , Müller Thomas Stephan , Reinbacher‐Köstinger Alice , Hochrainer Thomas , Brenn Günter , Ellermann Katrin , Biro Oszkar , Kaltenbacher Manfred
Published: December 2022

Aortic dissection is caused by a tear on the aortic wall that allows blood to flow through the wall layers. Usually, this tear involves the intimal and partly the medial layer of the aortic wall. As a result, a new false lumen develops besides the original aorta, denoted then as the true lumen. The local hemodynamic conditions such as flow disturbances, recirculations and low wall shear stress may cause thrombus formation and growth in the false lumen. Since the false lumen status is a significant predictor for late‐dissection‐related deaths, it is of great importance in the medical management of patients with aortic dissection.

The hemodynamic changes in the aorta also alter the electrical conductivity of blood. Since the blood is much more conductive than other tissues in the body, such changes can be identified with non‐invasive methods such as impedance cardiography. Therefore, in this study, the capability of impedance cardiography in monitoring thrombosis in the false lumen is studied by multiphysics simulations to assist clinicians in the medical management of patients under treatment.

To tackle this problem, a 3D computational fluid dynamics simulation has been set up to model thrombosis in the false lumen and its impact on the blood flow‐induced conductivity changes. The electrical conductivity changes of blood have been assigned as material properties of the blood‐filled aorta in a 3D finite element electric simulation model to investigate the impact of conductivity changes on the measured impedance from the body's surface.

The results show remarkable changes in the electrical conductivity distribution in the measurement region due to thrombosis in the false lumen, which significantly impacts the morphology of the impedance cardiogram. Thus, frequent monitoring of impedance cardiography signals may allow tracking the thrombus formation and growth in the false lumen.
Unexpected Factors Affecting the Kinetics of Guest Molecule Release from Investigation of Binary Chemical Systems Trapped in a Single Void of Mesoporous Silica Particles
Authors: Trzeciak Katarzyna , Wielgus Ewelina , Kaźmierski Sławomir , Khalaji Mehrnaz , Dudek Marta K. , Potrzebowski Marek J.
Published: December 2022

In this work, we present results for loading of well‐defined binary systems (cocrystal, solid solution) and untreated materials (physical mixtures) into the voids of MCM‐41 mesoporous silica particles employing three different filling methods. The applied techniques belong to the group of “wet methods” (diffusion supported loading – DiSupLo) and “solvent‐free methods” (mechanical ball‐mill loading – MeLo, thermal solvent free – TSF). As probes for testing the guest1‐guest2 interactions inside the MCM‐41 pores we employed the benzoic acid (BA), perfluorobenzoic acid (PFBA), and 4‐fluorobenzoic acid (4‐FBA). The guests intermolecular contacts and phase changes were monitored employing magic angle spinning (MAS) NMR Spectroscopy techniques and powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD). Since mesoporous silica materials are commonly used in drug delivery system research, special attention has been paid to factors affecting guest release kinetics. It has been proven that not only the content and composition of binary systems, but also the loading technique have a strong impact on the rate of guests release. Innovative methods of visualizing differences in release kinetics are presented.
Advances in Low‐Temperature Dual‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yu Dandan , Li Kexin , Ma Guiyou , Ru Fei , Zhang Xiaokun , Luo Wen , Hu Pengfei , Chen Da , Wang Hua
Published: December 2022

Fabricating rechargeable batteries for low‐temperature (LT) applications is highly desired at high altitudes/latitudes, aerospace/subsea exploration, and defense. Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) suffer from severe loss of capacity and energy/power density at sub‐zero temperatures caused by the sluggish kinetics. By utilizing both cations and anions as charge carriers, dual‐ion batteries (DIBs) become a nascent battery system for LT tolerance by overcoming ion‐desolvation during discharge. Here, we summarize recent advances in LT DIBs. To begin with, distinctive advantages of DIBs at LTs are highlighted compared to LIBs, with a special attention to anion (de‐)intercalation, and the in‐depth understanding of key challenges for LT operation is discussed. The next major section deals with the exciting progress on the advanced strategies to improve the LT performance of DIBs, including alternative electrode materials, reliable electrolyte formulations, and construction of interphase protective layers. Finally, prospects and future developments in this exciting field of LT DIBs are suggested.
Different fluid strategies for the simulation of a Helicon Plasma Thruster
Authors: Souhair Nabil , Ponti Fabrizio , Magarotto Mirko , Pavarin Daniele
Published: December 2022

Different fluid numerical strategies have been considered for the analysis of the plasma transport in a Helicon Plasma Thruster, namely the Drift Diffusion solution, the explicitly segregated solution, and the adoption of the Simple algorithm [Patankar & Spalding] for the coupled solution of the continuity and momentum balances. These strategies have been compared in terms of plasma profiles such as electron density and temperature, and their computational efficiency has been assessed. Finally, a sensitivity analysis over the neutrals' pressure has been performed in order to assess the validity of each proposed strategy for different collisional regimes.
Curves for Curlew: Identifying Curlew breeding status from GPS tracking data
Authors: Bowgen Katharine M. , Dodd Stephen G. , Lindley Patrick , Burton Niall H. K. , Taylor Rachel C.
Published: December 2022

Identifying the breeding status of cryptic bird species has proved problematic without intense or inherently expensive monitoring. Most, if not all, intensive bird monitoring comes with disturbance risks and many projects now rely on tagging of individuals to provide remote information on movements. Given the importance of breeding status when targeting conservation interventions novel methods are needed. This study aimed to identify breeding status in Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata) from GPS tag movement patterns using the “recurse” package in R. This package identifies foci of activity (using K‐means clustering) based on revisitations. Using a training data set from an individual of known breeding status, we visually assessed the frequency of revisits to particular locations to identify prebreeding, incubation, chick guarding, and post‐breeding stages to an accuracy of a within at most half a day and thus breeding outcomes. Limited validation was provided by additional field observations. Based on our results, we estimate a low daily nest survival rate of 0.935 during incubation, that only a small proportion of individuals successfully raised young, and that there was a high proportion (26%) of non‐breeders in the population. The Eurasian Curlew is a species of high conservation concern across Europe, and our results concur with recent studies highlighting that population declines are likely to be driven by low levels of productivity. The acquisition of improved knowledge on the behaviors of individuals at each stage of breeding enables more targeted conservation efforts and reduces the need for additional monitoring visits that may cause increased disturbance and risk of nest failure. We hope that the approach outlined may be developed to provide practitioners who have detailed knowledge of the behavior of their study species with a practical means of assessing the breeding status and outcomes of their study populations.
Ultra‐Robust and High‐Performance Rotational Triboelectric Nanogenerator by Bearing Charge Pumping
Authors: Fu Xianpeng , Qin Yuhan , Zhang Zhi , Liu Guoxu , Cao Jie , Fan Beibei , Wang Zhaozheng , Wang Zheng , Zhang Chi
Published: December 2022

As an emerging technology to convert environmental high‐entropy energy into electrical energy, triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) has great demands for further enhancing the service lifetime and output performance in practical applications. Here, an ultra‐robust and high‐performance rotational triboelectric nanogenerator (R‐TENG) by bearing charge pumping is proposed. The R‐TENG composes of a pumping TENG (P‐TENG), an output TENG (O‐TENG), a voltage‐multiplying circuit (VMC), and a buffer capacitor. The P‐TENG is designed with freestanding mode based on a rolling ball bearing, which can also act as the rotating mechanical energy harvester. The output low charge from the P‐TENG is accumulated and pumped to the non‐contact O‐TENG, which can simultaneously realize ultralow mechanical wear and high output performance. The matched instantaneous power of R‐TENG is increased by 32 times under 300 r/min. Furthermore, the transferring charge of R‐TENG can remain 95% during 15 days (6.4 × 106 cycles) continuous operation. This work presents a realizable method to further enhance the durability of TENG, which would facilitate the practical applications of high‐performance TENG in harvesting distributed ambient micro mechanical energy.
Effect of COVID‐19 on healthcare workers' morbidity and mortality compared to the general population in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer‐Ahmad Province, Iran
Authors: Jalil Mohsen , Ashkan Zahra , Gholamnezhad Mohammad , Jamalidoust Somayeh , Jamalidoust Marzieh
Published: December 2022

During the Covid‐19 pandemic, the adverse effects of recent coronaviruses on healthcare professionals cannot be ignored. This study compared the admission rates due to Covid‐19 and characteristics of hospitalized healthcare workers with the general population of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer‐Ahmad (K.B) province. 18546 hospitalized patients infected with Covid‐19 in hospitals in four cities of K.B province were enrolled in this study; of them, 236 (1.27%) patients were healthcare workers. Demographic and clinical data of hospitalized cases due to Covid‐19 infection were collected from August 2020 to September 2021. The underlying diseases were also considered in this study. According to our findings, 55.5% of the hospitalized healthcare workers were male, and 44.5% were female; their mean age was 41.41 years. However, in the general population, hospitalization rates were higher for women than for men (51.2% and 48.8%, respectively). Although the SARS‐CoV‐2 infectivity rate was higher in healthcare workers compared to the general population (68.6% vs. 56.1%), the mortality rate was significantly lower in them (1.7% vs. 3.8%). Fever, cough, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, headache, and myalgia were the most prevalent symptoms in both groups. Among the cases examined in this study, inpatient ones aged 30–40 years and the general population aged over 60 seemed to be more likely to be hospitalized for Covid‐19. The hospitalization rate of healthcare workers during the pandemic follows the same pattern as the general population, but since the start of vaccination, this rate has decreased among healthcare workers compared to the general population of KB province.
Expanding the Strain‐Promoted 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition Arsenal for a More Selective Bioorthogonal Labeling in Living Cells
Authors: Chinoy Zoeisha S. , Friscourt Frédéric
Published: December 2022

The advent of bioorthogonal chemistry, more importantly the strain‐promoted 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of cyclooctynes with azides to give stable triazoles, has opened new avenues for the study of biomolecules in their native environment. While much effort has been focused on improving the kinetics of these reactions, very little attention has been given to their bioselectivity. In this review, we will take you on our journey that led us to develop new cyclooctyne probes with enhanced physical attributes, including water solubility, cell‐surface labeling selectivity and fluorogenic capabilities. We then went on to expand the bioorthogonal chemistry toolbox by focusing on the development of new chemical reporters. Here you will read about our work investigating the use of other 1,3‐dipoles, including nitrile oxides and diazo reagents, for the labeling of biomolecules, and more recently highly biostable sydnones that can be exploited to selectively influence glycan‐processing enzymes.
Prevalence of intimate partner violence victimization among Korean perinatal women and associated factors
Authors: Lee Ji Yun , June Kyung Ja , Khang Young‐Ho , Kim Yu‐Mi , Cho Hong‐Jun
Published: December 2022

Objective

To determine the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization and the factors associated with IPV during pregnancy and the early postnatal period in Korean community samples.

Methods

We enrolled 5953 pregnant mothers and mothers with young children registered in the Early Life Health Management Program provided by 30 public health centers in Korea between 2020 and 2021. We used the Korean Hurt, Insult, Threaten, and Scream (K‐HITS) questionnaire to measure IPV. Sociodemographic, social support, and psychosocial variables were collected using self‐administered questionnaires. χ2 tests and multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted using SAS.

Results

Using a cut‐off score of 6 with K‐HITS, the prevalence of IPV was 7.6%. According to multivariable logistic analyses, “have seen domestic violence during childhood or adolescence” (odds ratio [OR] 2.61, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.95–3.50), unplanned pregnancy (OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.73–2.75), depression during pregnancy (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.69–2.79), history of receiving treatment for emotional problems (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.07–2.20), and living in a rural area (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.01–2.29) increased the odds of IPV. “Having someone who talk to” was protective of IPV (for” “Not having someone to talk to”: OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.49–3.35).

Conclusions

Policies to prevent and address IPV during the perinatal period are urgently needed in Korea.
Abdominal and robotic sacrocolpopexy costs following implementation of enhanced recovery after surgery
Authors: Baker Mary V. , Teles Abrao Trad Ayssa , Tamhane Prajakta , Weaver Amy L. , Visscher Sue L. , Borah Bijan J. , Klingele Christopher J. , Gebhart John B. , Trabuco Emanuel C.
Published: December 2022

Objective

To compare perioperative costs and morbidity between open and robotic sacrocolpopexy after implementation of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway.

Methods

The present retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing open or robotic sacrocolpopexy (January 1, 2014, through November 30, 2017) used an ERAS protocol with liposomal bupivacaine infiltration of laparotomy incisions. Primary outcomes were costs associated with index surgery and hospitalization, determined with Medicare cost‐to‐charge ratios and reimbursement rates and adjusted for variables expected to impact costs. Secondary outcomes included narcotic use, length of stay (LOS), and complications from index hospitalization to postoperative day 30.

Results

For the total of 231 patients (open cohort, 90; robotic cohort, 141), the adjusted mean cost of robotic surgery was $3239 higher compared with open sacrocolpopexy (95% confidence interval [CI] $1331–$5147; P < 0.001). Rates were not significantly different for intraoperative complications (robotic, 4.3% [6/141]; open, 5.6% [5/90]; P = 0.754), 30‐day postoperative complications (robotic, 11.4% [16/141]; open, 16.7% [15/90]; P = 0.322), or readmissions (robotic, 5.7% [8/141]; open, 3.3% [3/90]; P = 0.535). The percentage of patients dismissed on postoperative day 1 was greater in the robotic group (89.4% [126/141] vs. 48.9% [44/90], P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Decreased LOS associated with ERAS provided significant cost savings with open sacrocolpopexy versus robotic sacrocolpopexy without adverse impacts on perioperative complications or readmissions.
Tropisetron improved testicular inflammation in the streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats: The role of toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) and mir146a
Authors: Naderi Roya , Pourheydar Bagher , Moslehi Azam
Published: December 2022

As a serotonin antagonist, tropisetron positively affects blood glucose lowering, insulin synthesis, pancreas inflammation, and apoptosis in diabetes. Reproductive disorders are one of the diabetes‐induced chronic complications. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of tropisetron on diabetes‐induced testicular inflammation, its signaling pathway, and mir146a. To this end, animals were assigned to the control, tropisetron, diabetes (DM), DM‐tropisetron, and DM‐glibenclamide groups. Streptozotocin (50 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected to provide diabetes. Tropisetron and glibenclamide were then administrated intraperitoneally for 2 weeks after diabetes induction. Testes histology, real‐time polymerase chain reaction, western blot analysis, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry assays were also performed. The finding revealed that tropisetron significantly improved diabetes‐induced testis damages, lowered TLR4, TRAF6, IRAK1, NF‐κB, and caspase3 protein expressions, and decreased TNF‐α and IL‐1 levels. Moreover, the mir146a expression declined following the tropisetron treatment. This study demonstrated that the significant role of tropisetron in lowering testicular inflammation and apoptosis might have been due to the inhibition of the TLR4/IRAK1/TRAF6 signaling pathway and thereby the attenuation of NF‐κB and caspase3 expression and inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, the downregulation of mir146a, as an inflammatory microRNA interacting with TLR4, showed another pathway, through which tropisetron improved diabetes‐induced testicular injuries.
Adsorptive bubble separation method in the recovery of a biomolecule
Authors: Poddar Sourav , Khanam Jasmina , Pradhan Prasenjit
Published: December 2022

The present work aims to separate an amino acid (l‐phenylalanine) from a highly dilute aqueous solution by the ‘adsorptive bubble separation method’. Separation is based on the principle of adsorption at the interphase of the gas bubble and aqueous phase and subsequent amino acid extraction in the top layered nonaqueous phase. The operation was carried out in a long glass column with a comprehensive solvent chamber at the top. Design‐Expert software optimizes the process parameters, and the process involves three variables: gas (nitrogen) flow rate, extractant, and solvent quantity, which control responses, recovery percentage, and the ratio of enrichment. The design models are found to be significant. The maximum recovery of amino acid observed was 75.545% and the value of the enrichment ratio was 3.87. In addition, two models were generated by the software, which was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Therefore, this process is adopted as it is of straightforward construction, eco‐friendly, and less costly than other methods previously known to recover l‐phenylalanine from a dilute solution. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The pilot study of a blended learning module using porcine tongue for surgical simulation of double‐opposing Z‐plasty
Authors: Huang Hanyao , Zeng Ni , Yang Chao , Wang Yan , Zheng Qian , Shi Bing , Cheng Xu
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Simulation course serves as an efficient supplement to the experiential learning inside the operation room in surgical residency programs. Furlow double‐opposing Z‐plasty (DOZ) remains an important and challenging surgical technique in cleft palate repair, but the simulation is currently limited. This study aims to develop a blended learning module with low‐cost and easy‐to‐promote DOZ simulation.

Methods

Comparison among the common rodent experimental animals and the readily available porcine tongue was made to select the ideal animal for surgical simulation, with which a DOZ learning module was developed. Oral surgery residents were enrolled to attend the blended learning module. An after‐session questionnaire and a quiz were distributed to the participants to collect their feedback of the course perceptions and to assess their learning outcomes.

Results

The porcine tongue had more advantages in simulating the human soft palate over the common experimental animals. The surgical procedure of DOZ could be well designed and simulated on the porcine tongue. The vast majority of the participant liked the learning module regarded it as beneficial for the comprehension if DOZ principles and procedures. With the help of the porcine tongue simulator, the blended learning module helped the participants grasp the designing principles of DOZ procedure and promote their associative learning.

Conclusions

The blended learning module incorporating the porcine tongue simulator can help oral surgery residents master the principles and procedures of DOZ palatoplasty.
Efficacy of immunotherapy with combination of cryotherapy and topical imiquimod for treatment of Kaposi sarcoma
Authors: Gu Lilly , Lin Erica , Liu Shuaitong , Yang Ning , Kurtansky Nicholas , Neumann Neil M. , Stoll Joseph , Lezcano Cecilia , Pulitzer Melissa , Noor Sarah , Markova Alina , Rossi Anthony , Dickson Mark A. , Deng Liang
Published: December 2022

Multiple treatment modalities for Kaposi sarcoma (KS) have been reported, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgical excision, electrochemotherapy, and cryotherapy. Common topical treatments include timolol, imiquimod, and alitretinoin. We searched our institutional database for patients with ICD‐9 or 10 codes for KS seen by a dermatologist with experience in KS management from July 1, 2004 to January 1, 2022. We screened patient charts to include patients who received combination therapy of cryotherapy followed by topical imiquimod three times a week for 2 months (n = 9). Patients were followed in the clinic every 3 months. Time to resolution was assessed by photographic evidence of resolution as determined by a dermatologist and corroborated with clinical documentation in patient charts. Median age (IQR) at KS diagnosis was 58 (27.5) years. All patients were male (n = 9, 100%). Majority were white (n = 7, 78%) and non‐Hispanic (n = 8, 89%). Five (56%) had classic KS, one (11%) had HIV‐associated KS, and three (33%) were HIV‐negative men who have sex with men. Median time to resolution was 30.5 weeks, with a median of two treatments. In our study, 93% (n = 42/45) of lesions and 89% (n = 8/9) of patients experienced complete resolution during a median (range) duration of follow‐up of 58 (13–209) weeks. Side effects were limited to pain during cryotherapy, occasional blister formation after cryotherapy, and mild inflammation due to imiquimod. No infections were observed. Combination therapy of cryotherapy and topical imiquimod may be an efficacious and comparatively low‐risk treatment for limited, cutaneous KS.
Ultralow‐Power Piezo‐Optomechanically Tuning on CMOS‐Compatible Integrated Silicon‐Hafnium‐Oxide Platform
Authors: Shen Jian , Fan Yuyan , Xu Zihan , Wu Liying , Wang Ying , Li Xiuyan , Gan Xuetao , Zhang Yong , Su Yikai
Published: December 2022

Power consumption of photonic integrated circuits becomes a critical consideration. A new platform is proposed for ultralow‐power tuning in silicon photonics via piezo‐optomechanical coupling using hafnium‐oxide actuators. As an example of the potential of the platform, a tunable silicon‐hafnium‐oxide hybrid microring, where hafnium‐oxide film acts as an active optical and piezoelectric layer, is demonstrated. The hybrid microring is capable of linear bidirectional tuning with a wavelength tuning efficiency of 8.4 pm V−1 and a power efficiency of 0.12 nW pm−1. The estimated power consumption for tuning a free spectral range (FSR) in hybrid microring is 3.07 µW per FSR. The hybrid silicon‐hafnium‐oxide technology with complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) compatibility advances the field of ultralow‐power integrated photonic devices and can find applications in optical communications, computing, and spaces under cryogenic temperatures.
Facile Preparation and Improved Electrochemical Performance of Oxygen‐Enriched Porous Carbon Materials Based on Diacetal‐Containing Polybenzoxazine
Authors: Wang Hanwu , Wang Peng , Li Jiamin , Ran Qichao
Published: December 2022

Porous oxygen‐doped carbon materials based on the copolymers of a diacetal‐type benzoxazine (ACE‐a) and melamine with different ratios are prepared by a facile template‐free method. The oxygen‐rich diacetal structure in ACE‐a allowed for a high oxygen content of 66.2% in surface in these porous carbon materials, and the degradation of the melamine at a high temperature gave an ideal pore structure with a specific surface area of 1383.9 m2 g−1 and a pore capacity of 0.748 cm3 g−1. The electrochemical performances are analyzed by Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and Galvanostatic charge‐discharge (GCD) tests, and the effects of melamine contents and electrolyte types are also investigated. The results suggested that this material possessed specific capacitance of 430 F g−1 in 0.5 M H2SO4 and 194 F g−1 in 6 M KOH (0.5 A g−1), respectively, and showed excellent charge‐discharge behavior and magnification characteristic. Moreover, the copolymerization reactions, crosslinking structures, and degradation process of the benzoxazine/melamine copolymers are studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis‐infrared spectrometry (TGA‐IR), respectively. This kind of oxygen‐enriched porous carbon material has a good applicative prospect in the field of supercapacitor.
Prevalence of underweight in people with severe mental illness: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Khan Bilal Ahmad , Khalid Humaira , Siddiqi Najma , Aslam Faiza , Ayesha Rubab , Afzal Medhia , Rajan Sukanya , Appuhamy Kavindu , Koly Kamrun Nahar , Bryant Maria , Holt Richard I. G. , Zavala Gerardo A.
Published: December 2022

People with severe mental illness (SMI) have a higher prevalence of obesity as compared with the general population, however, there is mixed evidence about the prevalence of underweight. Thus, the aim of this study is to determine the pooled prevalence of underweight in people with SMI and its association with socio‐demographic factors; and to compare the prevalence of underweight between SMI and the general population. MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and EMBASE databases were searched to identify observational studies assessing the prevalence of underweight in adults with SMI (schizophrenia, major depressive disorder with psychotic features, and bipolar disorders). Screening, data extraction, and risk of bias assessments were performed independently by two co‐authors, with disagreements resolved by consensus. Random effect estimates for the pooled prevalence of underweight and the pooled odds of underweight in people with SMI compared with the general population were calculated. Subgroup analyses were conducted for the type of SMI, setting, antipsychotic medication, region of the world, World Bank country income classification, data collection, and sex. Forty estimates from 22 countries were included. The pooled prevalence of underweight in people with SMI was 3.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.9–5.0). People with SMI were less likely to be underweight than the general population (odds ratio [OR] 0.65; 95% CI = 0.4–1.0). The pooled prevalence of underweight in SMI in South Asia was 7.5% (95% CI = 5.8–14.1) followed by Europe and Central Asia at 5.2% (95% CI = 3.2–8.1) and North America at 1.8% (95% CI = 1.2–2.6). People with SMI have lower odds of being underweight compared to the general population. People with schizophrenia had the highest prevalence of underweight compared to other types of SMI. Japan and South Asia have the highest prevalence of underweight in people with SMI.