bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iridium‐Based Selective Emitters for Thermophotovoltaic Applications
Authors: Vaidhyanathan Krishnamurthy Gnanavel , Chirumamilla Manohar , Krekeler Tobias , Ritter Martin , Raudsepp Ragle , Schieda Mauricio , Klassen Thomas , Pedersen Kjeld , Petrov Alexander Yu. , Eich Manfred , Störmer Michael
Published: August 2023

The long‐term operation of refractory‐metal‐based metamaterials is crucial for applications such as thermophotovoltaics. The metamaterials based on refractory metals like W, Mo, Ta, Nb, and Re fail primarily by oxidation. Here, the use of the noble metal Ir is proposed, which is stable to oxidation and has optical properties comparable to gold. The thermal endurance of Ir in a 3‐layer‐system, consisting of HfO2/Ir/HfO2, by performing annealing experiments up to 1240 °C in a pressure range from 2 × 10−6 mbar to 1 bar, is demonstrated. The Ir layer shows no oxidation in a vacuum and inert gas atmosphere. At temperatures above 1100 °C, the Ir layer starts to agglomerate due to the degradation of the confining HfO2layers. An in situ X‐ray diffraction experimental comparison between 1D multilayered Ir/HfO2and W/HfO2selective emitters annealed at 1000 °C, 2 × 10−6 mbar, over 100 h, confirms oxidation stability of Ir while W multilayers gradually disappear. The results of this work show that W‐based metamaterials are not long‐term stable even at 1000 °C. However, the oxidation resistance of Ir can be leveraged for refractory plasmonic metamaterials, such as selective emitters in thermophotovoltaic systems with strong suppression of long wavelength radiation.
[2+2+1+1] Cycloaddition Reaction of 1,3,5‐Triazinanes with Methylene Compounds: Approach to Hexahydropyrimidines
Authors: Tian Yuting , Chen Ziyang , Su Kexin , Zheng Yongsheng , Liu Jikai
Published: August 2023

An acetic acid‐catalyzed [2+2+1+1] cycloaddition of 1,3,5‐triazinanes with methylene compounds was developed. This protocol provides an access to hexahydropyrimidines (HHPs) (25 examples) in 35–99% yields under mild conditions in 2 hours. The potential application of this method was demonstrated by gram‐scale synthesis. Preliminary mechanistic investigation was conducted to elucidate the possible mechanism. This work represents the yet unknown example of [2+2+1+1] cycloaddition reaction between 1,3,5‐triazinanes and active methylene compounds.
B−N/B−O Contained Heterocycles as Fusion Locker in Multi‐Resonance Frameworks towards Highly‐efficient and Stable Ultra‐Narrowband Emission
Authors: Meng Guoyun , Zhou Jianping , Huang Tianyu , Dai Hengyi , Li Xiao , Jia Xiaoqin , Wang Lu , Zhang Dongdong , Duan Lian
Published: August 2023

Fusing condensed aromatics into multi‐resonance (MR) frameworks has been an exquisite strategy to modulate the optoelectronic properties, which, however, always sacrifices the small full width at half maxima (FWHM). Herein, we strategically embed B−N/B−O contained heterocycles as fusion locker into classical MR prototypes, which could enlarge the π‐extension and alleviate the steric repulsion for an enhanced planar skeleton to suppress the high‐frequency stretching/ scissoring vibrations for ultra‐narrowband emissions. Sky‐blue emitters with extremely small FWHMs of 17–18 nm are thereafter obtained for the targeted emitters, decreased by (1.4–1.9)‐fold compared with the prototypes. Benefiting from their high photoluminescence quantum yields of >90 % and fast radiative decay rates of >108 s−1, one of those emitters shows a high maximum external quantum efficiency of 31.9 % in sensitized devices, which remains 25.8 % at a practical luminance of 1,000 cd m−2 with a small FWHM of merely 19 nm. Notably a long operation half‐lifetime of 1,278 h is also recorded for the same device, representing one of the longest lifetimes among sky‐blue devices based on MR emitters.
Hexagonal MnTe with Antiferromagnetic Spin Splitting and Hidden Rashba–Dresselhaus Interaction for Antiferromagnetic Spintronics
Authors: Rooj Suman , Chakraborty Jayita , Ganguli Nirmal
Published: August 2023

Hexagonal MnTe emerges as a critical component in designing magnetic quantum heterostructures, calling for a detailed study. After finding a suitable combination of exchange–correlation functional and corrections, this study within ab initio density functional theory uncovers an insulating state with a preferred antiferromagnetic (AFM) order. The exchange interaction strengths are computed to estimate the AFM ordering temperature via Monte Carlo calculations. These calculations and symmetry analysis reveal a large spin splitting in the system due to the AFM order without considering spin–orbit interaction, except in the kx‐ky plane. Critically examining the band dispersion and spin textures obtained from these calculations and comparing them with an insightful symmetry analysis and analytical model, a combined Rashba–Dresselhaus interaction in the kx‐ky plane, around the K point of the system, is confirmed. These results and insights would help design heterostructures of MnTe for technological applications.
Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor‐γ Agonistic Compounds from the Jellyfish‐Derived Fungus Cladosporium oxysporum
Authors: Li Dan‐Dan , Luo Xiaowei , Ying Wang , La Kim Eun , Hong Jongki , Lee Joon‐Hee , Jung Jee H.
Published: August 2023

In our search for peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) agonists, five undescribed compounds, namely two acyclic diterpenes (1 and 2; cladopsol A and cladopsol B), two sesquiterpenes (3 and 4; cladopsol C and cladopsol D), and one C21‐ecdysteroid (5; cladopsol E), and 15 known compounds were isolated from the jellyfish‐derived fungus – Cladosporium oxysporum. The structures of the undescribed compounds were defined using UV, NMR, HR‐ESI‐MS, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectroscopy and a modified Mosher's method. Luciferase reporter assay and docking analysis suggested that cladopsol B may function as a PPAR‐γ partial agonist with a potential antidiabetic lead which may evade the side effects of full agonists. Moreover, cladopsol B stimulated glucose uptake in HepG2 cells with an efficacy comparable to that of rosiglitazone, but with less side effect induced by lipid accumulation in 3T3‐L1 cells. Therefore, cladopsol B could serve as a molecular skeleton in a study of advanced antidiabetic lead with less side effect.
Acute thrombotic occlusion involving three coronary arteries. A unique association withCOVID‐19 pneumonia
Authors: Habib Mhd Baraa , Abdelghani Mohamed Salah , Elyas Ahmed , Ashour Anas A. , Altermanini Mohammad , Imran Shahid , Arabi Abdul Rahman
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Respiratory viruses, particularly COVID‐19, can be associated with severe cases of myocardial infarction (MI). Physicians should have a low threshold for MI in COVID‐19 patients who present with persistent chest pain as MI in rapidly deteriorating cases can be missed. Prompt response includes both timely diagnosis and swift treatment.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is associated with coronary artery thrombosis. Many cases of single‐vessel and few cases of two‐vessel thrombosis were reported. Herein, we report a unique association in a middle‐aged man diagnosed with COVID‐19 and presented later with acute myocardial infarction causing cardiogenic shock. The patient was found to have three‐vessel thrombosis.
Recent Advances in Visible Light‐induced Asymmetric Transformations of Carbonyl Compounds into Chiral Alcohols
Authors: Hou Liuzhen , Liu Xiaohua , Cao Weidi , Feng Xiaoming
Published: August 2023

Visible light‐induced photocatalysis has been widely investigated, which offers exciting opportunities to build new catalytic platforms that are unattainable under ground state conditions. Asymmetric photocatalysis has been a longstanding challenge due to the high reactivity of photogenerated intermediates leading to strong background reaction. Carbonyl group is an important fundamental scaffold in organic synthesis. The photocatalytic asymmetric transformations of carbonyl compounds for synthesizing enantioenriched secondary and tertiary alcohols are of significant value but remain problematic. Even so, a series of intriguing works concerning this topic have been reported in recent year. This review summarizes the advances in this area, mainly dividing into single and synergetic catalyst systems, and the mechanism of each reaction is discussed.
Antibactericidal Ir(III) and Ru(II) Complexes with Phosphine‐Alkaloid Conjugate and Their Interactions with Biomolecules: A Case of N‐Methylphenethylamine
Authors: Wojtala Daria , Kozieł Sandra , Witwicki Maciej , Niorettini Alessandro , Guz‐Regner Katarzyna , Bugla‐Płoskońska Gabriela , Caramori Stefano , Komarnicka Urszula K.
Published: August 2023

The phosphine ligand (Ph2PCH2N(CH3)(CH2)2Ph, PNMPEA) obtained by the reaction of the (hydroxymethyl)diphenylphosphine with naturally occurring alkaloid N‐methylphenethylamine, was used to synthesize the half‐sandwich iridium(III) (Ir(η5‐Cp*)Cl2Ph2PCH2N(CH3)(CH2)2Ph, IrPNMPEA) and ruthenium(II) (Ru(η6‐p‐cymene)Cl2Ph2PCH2N(CH3)(CH2)2Ph, RuPNMPEA) complexes. They were characterized using a vast array of methods, including 1D and 2D NMR, ESI(+)MS spectrometry, elemental analysis, cyclic voltammetry (CV), electron spectroscopy in the UV‐Vis range (absorption, fluorescence) and density functional theory (DFT). The initial antimicrobial activity in vitro toward Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacterial strains was examined, indicating that both complexes are selective towards Gram‐positive bacteria, e. g., Staphylococcus aureus, where the IrPNMPEA has been more bactericidal compared to RuPNMPEA. Additionally, the interactions of these compounds with various biomolecules, such as DNA (ctDNA, plasmid DNA, 9‐ethylguanine (9‐EtG), and 9‐methyladenine (9‐MeA)), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH), glutathione (GSH), and ascorbic acid (Asc) were described. The results showed that both Ir(III) and Ru(II) complexes accelerate the oxidation process of NADH, GSH and Asc that appeared to occur by an electron transfer mechanism. Interestingly, only IrPNMPEA leads to the formation of various biomolecule adducts, which can explain its higher activity. Furthermore, RuPNMPEA and IrPNMPEA have been interacting with the DNA through weak noncovalent interactions.
A Thiol‐Michael Approach Towards Versatile Functionalized Cyclic Titanium‐Oxo Clusters
Authors: Li Xing‐Han , Dai Shuqi , Yan Xiao‐Yun , Lei Huanyu , Liu Xian‐You , Liu Yuchu , Zhang Weiqi , Xu Xiaotong , Yin Jia‐Fu , Wu Yuean , Ye Feng , Guo Qing‐Yun , Cheng Stephen Z. D.
Published: August 2023

In expanding our research activities of superlattice engineering, designing new giant molecules is the necessary first step. One attempt is to use inorganic transition metal clusters as building blocks. Efficient functionalization of chemically precise transition metal clusters, however, remains a great challenge to material scientists. Herein, we report an efficient thiol‐Michael addition approach for the modifications of cyclic titanium‐oxo cluster (CTOC). Several advantages, including high efficiency, mild reaction condition, capability of complete addition, high atom economy, as well as high functional group tolerance were demonstrated. This approach can afford high yields of fully functionalized CTOCs, which provides a powerful platform for achieving versatile functionalization of precise transition metal clusters and further applications.
An gift'gen Pflanzen ist kein Mangel im Revier
Authors: Sicker Dieter
Published: August 2023

So ist es und die bekannte Zeile „Doch an Blumen fehlts im Revier“ ist aus Goethes Osterspaziergang – verfremdet, so wie auch die Überschrift des ersten Artikels über vier Giftpflanzen. Das damals über den Umgang mit Giftpflanzen Geschriebene gilt weiterhin.
A Pincer Cobalt Complex as Catalyst with Dual Hydrogenation Activities for Hydrodeoxygenation of Ketones with H2†
Authors: Liu Bingxue , Liu Qiang
Published: August 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Reductive deoxygenation of ketones using H2 is a highly desirable but also challenging transformation in both chemical synthesis, industrial‐scale petroleum and biomass feedstock reforming processes. Herein, we report a cooperative cobalt/Lewis acid (LA)‐catalyzed hydrodeoxygenation of ketones using H2 as the reductant. In particular, the newly developed pincer cobalt catalyst possesses dual hydrogenation activities for both ketones and alkenes under the same reaction conditions. This reaction features a broad substrate scope, excellent functional‐group compatibility, and potential applicability.
Asymmetric α‐Pentadienylation of β‐Ketocarbonyls and Aldehydes by Synergistic Pd/Chiral Primary Amine Catalysis†
Authors: You Chang , Luo Sanzhong
Published: August 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Direct alkylation with skipped enynes or cyclopropropylacetylenes represents an ideal process for the installation of pentadienyl group in terms of atom‐ and step‐economy. The development of catalytic asymmetric versions has been frequently pursued and most of the successes have been achieved with enolizable aldehydes. We herein describe a synergistic chiral primary amine/Pd catalysis for asymmetric α‐pentadienylation of β‐ketocarbonyls and aldehydes with skipped enynes or cyclopropropylacetylenes. The reaction features the construction of acyclic all‐carbon quaternary centers with high enantioselectivity, and good functional group tolerance and scalability.
Role of the Residue Q1919 in Increasing Kinase Activity of G2019S LRRK2 Kinase: A Computational Study
Authors: Naskar Avigyan , Bhanja Kousik Kumar , Roy Rakesh Kumar , Patra Niladri
Published: August 2023

Mutations in multi‐domain leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) have been an interest to researchers as these mutations are associated with Parkinson's disease. G2019S mutation in LRRK2 kinase domain leads to the formation of additional hydrogen bonds by S2019 which results in stabilization of the active state of the kinase, thereby increasing kinase activity. Two additional hydrogen bonds of S2019 are reported separately. Here, a mechanistic picture of the formation of additional hydrogen bonds of S2019 with Q1919 (also with E1920) is presented using ‘active’ Roco4 kinase as a homology model and its relationship with the stabilization of the ‘active’ G2019S LRRK2 kinase. A conformational flipping of residue Q1919 was found which helped to form stable hydrogen bond with S2019 and made ‘active’ state more stable in G2019S LRRK2. Two different states were found within the ‘active’ kinase with respect to the conformational change (flipping) in Q1919. Two doubly‐mutated systems, G2019S/Q1919A and G2019S/E1920 K, were studied separately to check the effect of Q1919 and E1920. For both cases, the stable S2 state was not formed, leading to a decrease in kinase activity. These results indicate that both the additional hydrogen bonds of S2019 (with Q1919 and E1920) are necessary to stabilize the active G2019S LRRK2.
Structure, Electron Density Distribution using Maximum Entropy Method, Optical and Magnetic Characteristics of Fe Doped SnS2
Authors: Pavithra Nagarathinam , Robert Muthanain Charles
Published: August 2023

Two dimensional layered magnetic materials like Fe‐doped SnS2 are cheap, abundant, and biocompatible, used for spintronics applications. The hydrothermal synthesized hexagonal nano disc structure of the sample is seen in the SEM images at room temperature. Pure SnS2, which is diamagnetic with magnetization 0.02067 emu/g becomes soft ferromagnetic by 2.5 % Fe doping with 0.672 emug−1 saturation magnetization and 0.222 kOe coercivity. A ultraviolet‐visible spectrometer measurement of the energy bandgap reveals a drop in energy from 2.35 to 2.2 eV, and the PL spectrum displays intense blue emission at a wavelength of 482–484 nm. Maximum entropy method (MEM), confirmed the ionic to covalent conversion upon Fe doping, due to the residual charge accumulation at the intermediate regions. The electron densities in Fe doped system in the plane (023) at Bond Critical Point of Sn─S and S─S are 0.327 and 0.354 e Å−3, respectively, with negative total energy density values confirming covalent bonding. A high electron density of 0.856 e Å−3 at the Sn─Sn region confirms interstitial charge accumulation. This introduces new intermediate energy levels in the forbidden region, reducing the energy bandgap and making the substance more semiconducting, making it useful for optical, opto‐electronic, and half‐metal applications.
Trace Doping: Fluorine‐Containing Hydrophobic Lewis Acid Enables Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Luo Junsheng , Lin Fangyan , Xia Jianxing , Yang Hua , Malik Haseeb Ashraf , Zhang Yunpeng , Abu Li Zi A. Yi. Gu Li , Yao Xiaojun , Wan Zhongquan , Jia Chunyang
Published: August 2023

With the rapid development in perovskite solar cell (PSC), high efficiency has been achieved, but the long‐term operational stability is still the most important challenges for the commercialization of this emerging photovoltaic technology. So far, bi‐dopants lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)‐imide (Li‐TFSI)/4‐tert‐butylpyridine (t‐BP)‐doped hole‐transporting materials (HTM) have led to state‐of‐the art efficiency in PSCs. However, such dopants have several drawbacks in terms of stability, including the complex oxidation process, undesirable ion migration and ultra‐hygroscopic nature. Herein, a fluorine‐containing organic Lewis acid dopant bis(pentafluorophenyl)zinc (Zn‐FP) with hydrophobic property and high migration barrier has been employed as a potential alternative to widely employed bi‐dopants Li‐TFSI/t‐BP for poly[bis(4‐phenyl)(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)amine] (PTAA). The resulting Zn‐FP‐based PSCs achieve a maximum PCE of 20.34 % with hysteresis‐free current density‐voltage (J‐V) scans. Specifically, the unencapsulated device exhibits a significantly advanced of operational stability under the International Summit on Organic Photovoltaic Stability protocols (ISOS−L‐1), maintaining over 90 % of the original efficiency after operation for 1000 h under continuous 1‐sun equivalent illumination in N2 atmosphere in both forward and reverse J‐V scan.
A wide input voltage range, high power supply rejection low‐dropout regulator with a closed‐loop charge pump for sensor front‐end circuits
Authors: Niu Zhiwen , Lai Xinquan , Wang Bingyuan
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a low dropout regulator (LDO) with a wide input voltage range and high power supply rejection (PSR) for Hall sensor front‐end circuits, which is fabricated with a 0.18 μm BCD process. A topology in which a closed‐loop charge pump biases the gate of two‐stage cascode NMOS pass transistors is proposed to increase immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI) capability for automotive applications. Furthermore, a power‐down protection circuit is proposed to maintain the reliability of the system, and a novel implementation of the charge pump unit is presented to improve the influence of the body effect. Detailed derivation regarding the analyses of the simplified small‐signal model of the closed‐loop charge pump, the loop stability, and the PSR at various frequency bands is given. Simulation and measurement results show that the proposed LDO can operate with the input voltage from 5 to 40 V, providing up to 60 mA current drive capability, and its minimum operating voltage is 2.5 V with a 10 mA load capacity. Moreover, results verify that measured PSR is better than −45 dB at 1.5 kHz, and measured PSR is better than −30 dB at 15 MHz. The results confirm that the obtained parameters of line and load regulations are significantly improved to 1.86 mV/V and 1.75 mV/mA, respectively.
Hybridization of antimicrobial oxazolidinones with commercial drugs: A fight against the “superbugs”
Authors: Prasher Parteek , Sharma Mousmee
Published: August 2023

Antimicrobial resistance caused by the emergence of antibiotic‐resistant microbes, termed as “superbugs,” poses a grave healthcare concern in the contemporary era. Though this phenomenon is natural, an incessant use of antibiotics due to their unregulated over‐the‐counter availability, and a lack of compliance with the legislation seem to be major contributing factors. This phenomenon has further complicated the treatment of common infectious diseases thereby leading to prolonged illness, disability, and even death. In addition, a sizeable impact on the healthcare cost is met due to a prolonged stay at the medical facilities to receive an intensive care. Overall, the gains of “Millennium Development Goals” and the accomplishment of Sustainable Development Goals are at risk due to the emerging antimicrobial resistance. Since an early identification and development of novel antibiotic classes that evade antimicrobial resistance appears improbable, the strategy of hybridization of the existing antibiotics with efficacious pharmacophores and drug molecules with a different mechanism of antimicrobial action can be a silver lining for the management of superbugs. In this regard, we aim to provide a perspective for the applicability of the hybridization of oxazolidinone class of antibiotics with other drugs for evading antimicrobial resistance.
Experimental and theoretical analyses on power generation characteristics of co‐axial MHD energy conversion device
Authors: Hasebe Takahiro , Sasaki Ryo , Fujino Takayasu , Takana Hidemasa , Kobayashi Hiromichi
Published: August 2023

Experiments on power generation were conducted under the open‐circuit condition to validate theoretical analyses on the power generation characteristics of a co‐axial MHD energy conversion device. Considering distribution of externally applied magnetic field and the electromotive force induced by the rotation of the conductive inner cylinder, the results show that the experimental open‐circuit voltage was lower than the theoretical one for the wide channel width, whereas the experimental open‐circuit voltage was higher than the theoretical one for the narrow channel width. The inclination of the inner cylinder might cause the decrease in effective radial ratio.
Thirteen years of experience with eslicarbazepine acetate in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland: A safety perspective
Authors: Guedes Luís , Vieira Mariana , Gama Helena , Magano Daniel , Fernandes Maria , Calero Patricia , Di Foggia Valentina
Published: August 2023

Objective

Eslicarbazepine acetate (ESL) is a once‐daily oral antiseizure medication. Its safety and tolerability from clinical trials have been mostly confirmed by real‐world data. The main purpose of this report is to provide an overview of the safety profile of ESL in the United Kingdom (UK) and Republic of Ireland (ROI).

Methods

Safety data were obtained from the UK and ROI post‐marketing sources (October 2009–April 2022) by the marketing authorization holder. All individual reports were included in the Argus Safety™ database. All adverse events (AEs) were coded using MedDRA® version 24.1. Only valid cases (meeting the minimum pharmacovigilance reporting requirements) were included.

Results

During 13 years of ESL marketing, with cumulative estimated exposure of 2 210 395 patients‐years, 183 reports were received. A total of 402 AEs were reported for the 155 valid reports. The most common reported AEs (≥6% of total reported), per system organ class (SOC), were: nervous system disorders (23.4%), injury, poisoning, and procedural complications (18.9%), general disorders and administration site conditions (12.9%), psychiatric disorders (12.7%) and gastrointestinal disorders (6.7%). The most frequently reported (≥2% of total reported) AEs were: seizure (4.5%), hyponatremia (4.2%), dizziness (2.7%), rash, fatigue (2.5% each), and somnolence (2.0%). Twenty‐six percent of events were classified as serious (including six fatal cases).

Significance

The current analysis supports the known safety profile of ESL, as generally well‐tolerated with most AEs being non‐serious. The most common AEs were considered either expected according to the disease itself or to the reference safety information. ESL continues to be a relevant medication in the treatment of partial (focal‐onset) epilepsy, as also confirmed by the 2022 NICE guidelines.
Toward a human brain extracellular vesicle atlas: Characteristics of extracellular vesicles from different brain regions, including small RNA and protein profiles
Authors: Huang Yiyao , Arab Tanina , Russell Ashley E. , Mallick Emily R. , Nagaraj Rajini , Gizzie Evan , Redding‐Ochoa Javier , Troncoso Juan C. , Pletnikova Olga , Turchinovich Andrey , Routenberg David A. , Witwer Kenneth W.
Published: August 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are released from different cell types in the central nervous system (CNS) and play roles in regulating physiological and pathological functions. Although brain‐derived EVs (bdEVs) have been successfully collected from brain tissue, there is not yet a “bdEV Atlas” of EVs from different brain regions. To address this gap, we separated EVs from eight anatomical brain regions of a single individual and subsequently characterized them by count, size, morphology, and protein and RNA content. The greatest particle yield was from cerebellum, while the fewest particles were recovered from the orbitofrontal, postcentral gyrus, and thalamus regions. EV surface phenotyping indicated that CD81 and CD9 were more abundant than CD63 in all regions. Cell‐enriched surface markers varied between brain regions. For example, putative neuronal markers NCAM, CD271, and NRCAM were more abundant in medulla, cerebellum, and occipital regions, respectively. These findings, while restricted to tissues from a single individual, suggest that additional studies are warranted to provide more insight into the links between EV heterogeneity and function in the CNS.
Spatiotemporal coupling analysis of land urbanization and carbon emissions: A case study of Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Zhu Enyan , Li Wei , Chen Lisu , Sha Mei
Published: August 2023

Urban expansion is one of the most important drivers of carbon emissions. It not only causes the invasion of terrestrial carbon sinks but also aggravates carbon emissions through social and economic activities. Because the effect of urban expansion on carbon emissions varies at different stages of urban development, spatiotemporal analysis of the dynamic relationship between urban expansion and carbon emissions is critical for low‐carbon urban planning. By combining nighttime light remote sensing and panel data, this study explored the spatiotemporal coupling characteristics of urban expansion and carbon emissions in a case study of Zhejiang in China. Spatial overlap analysis was used to measure the consistency of the spatial movement trajectories, and the coupling coordination degree model was used to dynamically investigate the interaction between urban land expansion and carbon emission increase. In this way, the dynamic coupling is represented from both a temporal and spatial perspective. The results showed that both the carbon emission and urban expansion growth rates first increased and then decreased, and their spatial coupling became increasingly close. Significantly, the coordinated development level between carbon emissions and urban expansion presented an inverted U‐shaped curve, which is consistent with the Kuznets curve theory. Overall, our research revealed the regularity of carbon emissions associated with land urbanization, which can help policymakers and urban planners to achieve sustainable land management.
The effect of bony obliteration on quality of life after tympano‐mastoidectomy surgery: A prospective observational controlled cohort study
Authors: Kara Hakan , Sen Comert , Sonmez Said , Celik Mehmet , Polat Beldan
Published: August 2023

Objectives

The study's primary objective was to compare the quality of life (QoL) and external auditory canal (EAC) hygiene among patients who underwent bony mastoid obliteration or meatoplasty after canal wall down (CWD) mastoidectomy.

Methods

A prospective, observational, controlled cohort study was conducted at our tertiary referral university hospital. Twenty‐eight patients older than 16 years of age with chronic otitis media who underwent CWD mastoidectomy were included. Two cohorts were followed: CWD mastoidectomy followed by mastoid obliteration (Group 1, n = 14) and CWD mastoidectomy followed by meatoplasty (Group 2, n = 14). The main outcome measures of total COMBI score (postoperative 6‐month QoL) and EAC hygiene were compared between the groups.

Results

The average age of the patients was 36.14 (12. 22) years; 15 (53.6%) were female and 13 (46.4%) were male. There were no differences in demographic variables, preoperative findings, or COMQ‐12 (preoperative QoL) scores between groups. The average COMBI score of Group 1 (49.0 [8.66]) was not significantly different from Group 2 (46.79 [7.76]) (p = .482). Poor EAC hygiene was observed in eight (57.1%) patients in Group 2 and three (21.4%) patients in Group 1 (p = .06). In Group 1, no resorption of graft material was observed in 10 (71.4%) patients, minor resorption was observed in three (21.4%) patients, and significant resorption was observed in one (7.1%) patient. There were no significant differences in audiological findings between groups (p > .05).

Conclusion

There were no significant differences regarding short‐term postoperative QoL, EAC hygiene, or hearing outcomes between patients who underwent bony mastoid obliteration or meatoplasty after CWD mastoidectomy.

Level of Evidence

1b (individual prospective cohort study).
Corrosion behavior and mechanism of 316 stainless steel in NaCl–KCl–FeCl3 molten salt and vapor at 300°C
Authors: Yang Zhigang , Yin Huiqin , Guo Fangyuan , Chen Liuping , Lai Xing , Tang Zhongfeng
Published: August 2023

The corrosion behavior of 316 stainless steel (316 SS) in NaCl–KCl–FeCl3 molten salt and vapor was studied at 300°C for 150, 300, and 500 h in Ar. The weight change, the micromorphology, element distribution, and crystal structure of the 316 SS alloy were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. 316 SS alloys suffered from weight loss, significant visible corrosion shedding, and corrosion holes. The corrosion holes and corrosion shedding block of the 316 SS alloys become more and more serious with the increase in corrosion time. The corrosion depth of the corroded 316 SS alloys in NaCl–KCl–FeCl3 molten salt and vapor for 500 h can even reach up to 20.0 and 14.0 μm, respectively. 316 SS alloys in NaCl–KCl–FeCl3 molten salts underwent a more serious corrosion attack than that in the NaCl–KCl–FeCl3 vapor at 300°C due to the strong oxidizing compound FeCl3 in the molten salt. It not only offers a new insight into the corrosion behavior of 316 SS alloys in the chloride salts and corresponding vapor but also enriches the corrosion databases of the chloride salts.
Corrosion monitoring of reinforced concrete structures: The DGZfP specification B12 Collaboration
Authors: Ebell Gino , Mayer Till Felix , Harnisch Jörg , Dauberschmidt Christoph
Published: August 2023

Corrosion monitoring of reinforced or prestressed concrete structures has become increasingly important in recent years. Areas of application include components that are no longer accessible after completion or where potential field measurements cannot be carried out due to existing coatings. Corrosion monitoring can also be used to monitor the progress of corrosion in corroding systems, e.g. to prove the success of repair measures according to repair principle 8 in accordance with EN 1504‐9 or repair method 8.3 in accordance with the DIBt repair guideline. It also could be used to prove the functionality of cathodic corrosion protection systems in accordance with ISO 12696. Despite the increasing importance of corrosion monitoring, no guidelines or recommendations existed until 2018. This gap was closed by the English version of specification B12, “Corrosion Monitoring of Reinforced and Prestressed Concrete Structures,” of the German Society for Non‐Destructive Testing, which was published in 2021. This article introduces specification B12 by explaining the basic measurement principles and illustrating the potential of corrosion monitoring in new and existing buildings.
Enhancing the Molecular Order and Vertical Component Distribution of the P3HT/O‐IDTBR System during Layer‐by‐Layer Processing
Authors: Liu Yadi , Zhang Tao , Zhang Rui , Guan Jian , Pan Jiaqi , Yu Xinhong , Zhang Qiang , Han Yanchun
Published: August 2023

The molecular order and vertical component distribution are critical to enhance the charge transport in layer‐by‐layer (LbL) processed active layer. However, the excessive inter‐diffusion between donor and acceptor layers during LbL processing irrepressibly reduces their ordered packing. Herein, a novel tactic to optimize the molecular order and vertical morphology of the active layer through suppressing the deep penetration of (5Z,5′Z)‐5,5′‐((7,7′‐(4,4,9,9‐tetraoctyl‐4,9‐dihydro‐s‐indaceno[1,2‐b:5,6 ‐b′]dithiophene‐2,7‐diyl)bis(benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole‐7,4‐diyl))bis(methanylylidene)) bis(3‐ethyl‐2‐thioxothiazolidin‐4‐one) (O‐IDTBR) to poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) film during LbL processing is proposed. This is enabled by inducing the formation of P3HT nanofibers through ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and solution aging. During the LbL processing, these nanofibers with high crystallinity reduce the damage of O‐IDTBR solution to P3HT film and restrict the penetration of O‐IDTBR into P3HT matrix. As a result, the P3HT nanofibers are preserved and the degree of vertical phase separation is enlarged in the LbL‐processed film. Meanwhile, the molecular order of both components is enhanced. The resulting morphology that featured as intertwined P3HT nanofibers/O‐IDTBR network efficiently promotes charge transport and extraction, boosting the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the devices from 6.70 ± 0.12% to 7.71 ± 0.10%.
Long‐time dynamics for the radial focusing fractional INLS
Authors: Majdoub Mohamed , Saanouni Tarek
Published: August 2023

We consider the following fractional NLS with focusing inhomogeneous power‐type nonlinearity:

where
,
,
, and
. We prove the ground state threshold of global existence and scattering versus finite time blowup of energy solutions in the inter‐critical regime with spherically symmetric initial data. The scattering is proved by the new approach of Dodson–Murphy. This method is based on Tao's scattering criteria and Morawetz estimates. We describe the threshold using some non‐conserved quantities in the spirit of the recent paper by Dinh. The radial assumption avoids a loss of regularity in Strichartz estimates. The challenge here is to overcome two main difficulties. The first one is the presence of a non‐local fractional Laplacian operator. The second one is the presence of a singular weight in the nonlinearity. The greater part of this paper is devoted to the scattering of global solutions in
. The Lorentz spaces and the Strichartz estimates play crucial roles in our approach.
Evidence for Charging and Discharging of MoS2 and WS2 on Mica by Intercalating Molecularly Thin Liquid Layers
Authors: Li Hanlin , Kovalchuk Sviatoslav , Kumar Abhijeet , Liang Dianjing , Frank Bradley D. , Lin Hu , Severin Nikolai , Bolotin Kirill I. , Kirstein Stefan , Rabe Jürgen P.
Published: August 2023

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) are often mechanically exfoliated on mica and examined under ambient conditions. It is known that above a certain relative humidity, a molecularly thin layer of water intercalates between the mica and the TMDC. Herein, the effect of molecularly thin liquid layers on the optical spectra of MoS2 and WS2 exfoliated on dry mica and exposed to the vapors of water, ethanol, and tetrahydrofuran (THF) is investigated. Photoluminescence and differential reflectance (ΔR/R) spectra on the TMDCs on dry mica show dominant trion emission due to n‐doping. Intercalation of water removes charge doping and results in purely neutral exciton emission, while an ethanol layer, which can be reversibly exchanged with water, does not completely suppress charge. Similarly, THF intercalates between TMDC and mica, as shown by atomic force microscopy, but it does not suppress the charging of mica. In MoS2 bi‐ and trilayers, an intercalated water layer leads to a near doubling of the intensity of the indirect band transition. The described charging/discharging of TMDCs by molecular thin liquid layers can provide important clues to better control the optical properties of TMDCs under environmental conditions.
‘Seaweed Appearance’ in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Penis: A New Dermoscopic Finding
Authors: Zhang Wei , Gu Lingxi , Feng Jianglong , Fan Hui , Lu Hongguang
Published: August 2023

Squamous cell carcinoma of the penis is an uncommon cancer. Vascular feature on dermoscopy is common in all forms of invasive squamous cell carcinoma, and the presence of the specific vascular features is often used to aid diagnosis. Here, we reported a new dermoscopic finding—seaweed-like vascular pattern in squamous cell carcinoma of the penis.
PDIA2 Variant Associated with Vitiligo
Authors: Li Fucheng , Liao Can , Li Ru , Zhang Yongling , Jing Xiangyi , Li Dongzhi , Deng Weiping
Published: August 2023

The manuscript addresses an important topic: genetic analysis of Vitiligo. Vitiligo is a complicated condition and the genetic factors account for 80% of the risk. Linkage analysis for a four generations Chinese family identified 16p13.3p13.2 as the susceptibility locus of vitiligo, whole exome sequencing then identified PDIA2 as the new candidate gene. The association between the candidate gene and vitiligo requires further investigation.
Anwendung von BIM im Kontext von Bauen 4.0 im Projekt Oberbürgermeister‐Karl‐Lehr‐Brückenzug Duisburg
Authors: Hüttig Lukas , Seitz Roland , Kropp Alexander , Hevelke Oliver
Published: August 2023

Die Bauwirtschaft sieht sich mit steigenden Anforderungen, wie bspw. das Schaffen einer nachhaltigeren Baukultur und der notwendigen Steigerung der Effizienz, konfrontiert. Gelöst werden können diese Herausforderungen nur mithilfe moderner Planungs‐ und Baumethoden wie dem Building Information Modeling im Sinne von Bauen 4.0. Aufgrund der zunehmenden Forderungen zur Umsetzung der BIM‐Methode in Infrastrukturprojekten ist es für Unternehmen wichtig, Erfahrungen aufzubauen. Aus diesem Grund wurde durch die Firmengruppe Max Bögl das Projekt Oberbürgermeister‐Karl‐Lehr‐Brückenzug Duisburg mithilfe der BIM‐Methode in der Produktion und Bauausführung umgesetzt. Der vorliegende Beitrag liefert neben einem Überblick zum Projekt eine Zusammenfassung der angewendeten BIM‐Methoden und daraus gewonnenen Erkenntnisse.
Unraveling the Potential of Innovative Eco‐friendly Thermoplastic Starch/SEBS‐g‐MA/Graphene Oxide Bionanocomposites
Authors: Bibi Maria , Cochran Eric W. , Forrester Michael , Mushtaq Irrum , Fatima Kalsoom , Sarwar (Late) Muhammad Ilyas , Zulfiqar Sonia
Published: August 2023

The increasing focus on bionanocomposites as environmentally friendly solutions for sustainable applications forms the crux of this study. This study explores the influence of incorporating 2% graphene oxide (GO) on the mechanical and thermal characteristics of blends containing glycerol plasticized thermoplastic starch (TPS) and polystyrene‐block‐poly(ethylene‐ran‐butylene)‐block‐polystyrene‐graft‐maleic anhydride (SEBS‐g‐MA), based matrix films through a solution casting method. Starch is successfully obtained from three varied sources: corn, cassava, and potato, with confirmation via fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The authors formulate and examine varying proportions of TPS/SEBS‐g‐MA (ranging from 10 to 50 wt.%), focusing on their biodegradability, and find that a 10 wt.% SEBS‐g‐MA concentration yields optimal degradation rates, thus this is kept constant. The bionanocomposite films are probed using techniques such as FTIR, XRD, mechanical strength testing, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), water absorption, and biodegradability studies. These results indicate that GO incorporation results in a robust hydrogen bonding network within the cassava starch‐based bionanocomposite films, enhancing their mechanical strength while decreasing their moisture absorption. Upgraded thermal properties of these films are also evident from the results. Consequently, these materials show promising utility, particularly in the realm of food packaging.
Data Collection Is Not Mostly Harmless: An Introduction to Privacy Theories and Basics
Authors: Marky Karola
Published: August 2023

This chapter contributes a short overview on the core concept that the research presented in this book investigates: privacy. First, it provides privacy theories and basics based on the scientific literature. Then, it motivates and discusses why privacy is an essential concept that deserves attention from the research community.
Data Cart: A Privacy Pattern for Personal Data Management in Organizations
Authors: Tolsdorf Jan , Iacono Luigi Lo
Published: August 2023

The European General Data Protection Regulation requires the implementation of Technical and Organizational Measures (TOMs) to reduce the risk of illegitimate processing of personal data. For these measures to be effective, they must be applied correctly by employees who process personal data under the authority of their organization. However, even data processing employees often have limited knowledge of data protection policies and regulations, which increases the likelihood of misconduct and privacy breaches. To lower the likelihood of unintentional privacy breaches, TOMs must be developed with employees’ needs, capabilities, and usability requirements in mind. To reduce implementation costs and help organizations and IT engineers with the implementation, privacy patterns have proven to be effective for this purpose. In this chapter, we introduce the privacy pattern Data Cart, which specifically helps to develop TOMs for data processing employees. Based on a user-centered design approach with employees from two public organizations in Germany, we present a concept that illustrates how Privacy by Design can be effectively implemented. Organizations, IT engineers, and researchers will gain insight on how to improve the usability of privacy-compliant tools for managing personal data.
Empirical Research Methods in Usable Privacy and Security
Authors: Distler Verena , Fassl Matthias , Habib Hana , Krombholz Katharina , Lenzini Gabriele , Lallemand Carine , Koenig Vincent , Cranor Lorrie Faith
Published: August 2023

A variety of methods and techniques are used in usable privacy and security (UPS) to study users’ experiences and behaviors. When applying empirical methods, researchers in UPS face specific challenges, for instance, to represent risk to research participants. This chapter provides an overview of the empirical research methods used in UPS and highlights associated opportunities and challenges. This chapter also draws attention to important ethical considerations in UPS research with human participants and highlights possible biases in study design.
Expert Opinions as a Method of Validating Ideas: Applied to Making GDPR Usable
Authors: Johansen Johanna , Fischer-Hübner Simone
Published: August 2023

This chapter presents two contributions; the first is a method and the second is the results of applying this method to usable privacy. First, we introduce a general method for validating ideas based on expert opinions. We adapt techniques that normally are used for validating data and apply them instead to analyze the expert opinions on the ideas under study. Since usually the expert opinions are varied, example-rich, and forward-looking, applying our method of ideas validation has the side effect of also identifying, in the process, open problems where the original studied ideas function as a foundation for further developments. Second, we employ a critical qualitative research, using theory triangulation to analyze the opinions coming from three groups of experts, categorized as “certifications,” “law,” and “usability.” These took part in a study where we thoroughly applied the method that we present here in order to validate five different types of ideas previously published under the collective title “Making GDPR Usable.” We will thus show how to validate ideas that come in the form of: a model, a definition, a prescriptive list, a set of criteria, and a form of rather general research idea as those usually appearing in position papers, namely “the need for evaluations and measuring of usability of privacy.”
Demographic Shifts, Household Energy Needs and Vulnerability
Authors: Bardazzi Rossella , Pazienza Maria Grazia
Published: August 2023

Structural changes in the population are bound to be intertwined with the energy transition in determining the evolution of household energy consumption. Most countries are characterized by shrinking total population, very fast ageing and smaller family size. These demographic shifts could enlarge the group of vulnerable individuals who are suffering for energy poverty. Being a single parent or living alone, having an increasing number of elderly or individuals with specific needs related to illness and disability in the family, significantly increases the chances of facing energy poverty. When studying the drivers of future energy demand, demographic shifts represent a crucial factor although they are usually overlooked in the estimated long-run projections of energy use which mainly takes into account only the population size. In this chapter, we summarize how demographic change is interlinked with energy transition with an analysis of the main issues related to changes in the composition and the age structure of the population and their effects on the future paths of energy consumption in Italy. Then we focus on the vulnerability of the elderly and on its main specific drivers as the affordability of energy expenditures and the energy efficiency of buildings and equipment. Moreover, we briefly look at the consequences of limited access to energy services on the social activities of the ageing population. Finally, price and income elasticity estimations add further evidence on the role of age and generation in household energy consumption. These findings are relevant in understanding how the expected structural demographic changes may affect the future trend of energy poverty.
On unitarity of the Coon amplitude
Authors: Bhardwaj Rishabh , De Shounak , Spradlin Marcus , Volovich Anastasia
Published: August 2023

Abstract

The Coon amplitude is a one-parameter deformation of the Veneziano amplitude. We explore the unitarity of the Coon amplitude through its partial wave expansion using tools from q-calculus. Our analysis establishes manifest positivity on the leading and sub-leading Regge trajectories in arbitrary spacetime dimensions D, while revealing a violation of unitarity in a certain region of (q, D) parameter space starting at the sub-sub-leading Regge order. A combination of numerical studies and analytic arguments allows us to argue for the manifest positivity of the partial wave coefficients in fixed spin and Regge asymptotics.