bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dispatching Buses in a Depot Using Block Patterns
Authors: Hamdouni Mohamed , Desaulniers Guy , Marcotte Odile , Soumis François , van Putten Marianne
Published: July 2006

In this article we consider the problem of assigning parking slots to buses of different types so that the required buses can be dispatched easily in the morning. More precisely, if a bus of a certain type is needed at a given time, the buses that precede it in the lane must have departed already. Thus care must be taken to ensure that the buses arriving in the evening are parked in an order compatible with the types required for the morning departures. Maneuvers (i.e., rearrangements of buses within lanes) might be necessary to achieve this goal. Because the transit authorities need robust solutions to this problem (known as the dispatching problem in the literature), we formulate a model in which the depot lanes are filled according to specific patterns, called one-block or two-block patterns. We present two versions of this model, study their properties, and show that some real-life instances can be solved within reasonable times by a commercial MIP solver. We also demonstrate that the solutions of the model are very robust, and can thus be used by transit authorities.
Are Returns to Scale with Variable Network Size Adequate for Transport Industry Structure Analysis?
Authors: Basso Leonardo J. , Jara-Díaz Sergio R.
Published: July 2006

It is customary to analyze transport industry structure using two indices: (1) economies of density and (2) economies of scale with variable network size. The latter has been defined to analyze the behavior of costs when output and network size expand simultaneously. After reviewing in detail what is intended with the calculation of RTS under this definition, we show analytically that, when the spatial aspects underlying transport production are taken into account, the seemingly reasonable conditions imposed on the aggregate output descriptions and the network variable conceal implicit output expansions that are not uniquely defined: they happen to depend on the specification of variables and on the evaluation point. Furthermore, most of the multiple output expansions analyzed correspond to cases that are hardly instructive. We conclude that this index is inherently ambiguous, hardly contributes to an adequate analysis of transport industry structure, and should be replaced by the calculation of economies of spatial scope (Journal of Economic Literature L91, L11, D40).
Physical activity and self‐rated health: Interactive effects of activity in work and leisure domains
Authors: Parkes Katharine R.
Published: July 2006

Objectives. This longitudinal study examined the effects of physical activity on self‐rated health (SRH); specifically, predicted interactions between leisure activity and job activity, and between leisure activity and age, were evaluated in relation to SRH.

Methods. Survey data on age and leisure activity together with relevant covariates (education, body mass index, smoking and negative affectivity) were collected from oil industry employees. Three job activity levels were identified (sedentary, active and strenuous). At 5‐year follow‐up, SRH, body mass index and smoking were reassessed. Hierarchical regression was used to analyse the longitudinal data (N = 314).

Results. The job activity ×leisure activity interaction (controlled for baseline SRH and covariates) predicted follow‐up SRH (p <.025). Individuals in sedentary jobs benefited disproportionately from leisure activity; active and strenuous jobs were associated with lower SRH, irrespective of leisure activity. The age ×leisure activity interaction was also significant (p <.025); leisure activity was significantly and positively associated with SRH only among younger individuals. Changes in body mass index and smoking contributed additively to the model, but did not mediate physical activity effects.

Conclusions. These findings highlight the importance of leisure physical activity for employees in sedentary jobs, but suggest that other factors (such as adverse environmental conditions) may underlie the lower SRH associated with physically demanding work. The results also indicate that, irrespective of job activity level, younger individuals benefit more from leisure physical activity than older ones. Thus, the study informs interventions designed to improve the health of employees through increased physical activity.
An investigation of the relationship between anxiety and depression and urge incontinence in women: Development of a psychological model
Authors: Perry Sarah , McGrother Catherine W. , Turner Keith ,   Leicestershire MRC Incontinence Study Group
Published: July 2006

Objectives. The study investigated the association between anxiety and depression and urge incontinence and the direction of causal pathways between these variables.

Design. A prospective longitudinal postal survey.

Method. A random sample of women aged 40 years or more, registered with a general practitioner in Leicestershire or Rutland, was mailed a postal questionnaire. The questionnaire included questions on general health, urinary symptoms and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). In total, 12,568 women responded to the baseline postal survey (65.3% response rate) and 9,596 to the first annual follow‐up (79.8% response rate). The prevalence and one‐year incident rates of these symptoms were compared and contrasted, whilst controlling for confounding variables.

Results. A significant proportion of women with urge incontinence reported symptoms of anxiety (56.6%) and depression (37.6%). Anxiety and depression were associated with a number of urinary symptoms and were not exclusive to urge incontinence. Incident cases of anxiety and depression were predicted by the presence of urge incontinence at baseline. Incident cases of urge incontinence were predicted by anxiety at baseline, but not depression. Anxiety, urge incontinence and frequency appeared to interact and exacerbate each other.

Conclusions. The findings demonstrated the relevance of emotional factors in the development and maintenance of urge incontinence. Currently, assessment and treatment protocols for urge incontinence concentrate on physical symptoms and toilet behaviours. A more integrated psychological model of urge incontinence is proposed.
Patient preferences for medical doctors
Authors: Furnham Adrian , Petrides K. V. , Temple Joanna
Published: July 2006

A sample of 395 white, native English‐speaking adults were asked to rate eight medical doctors (general practitioners (GPs) and consultants), representing all permutations of the following three attributes: age (<35 versus >50), training location (UK versus Asia) and gender. Approximately half the participants were allocated in a group with a condition involving an intimate type of health problem and the rest in a group with a non‐intimate condition. Participants showed a preference for UK‐trained doctors, although it was unclear whether this was due to the homogeneous composition of the sample. There were significant two‐way interactions involving patient gender and doctor gender in the first case and doctor age and training location in the second. Additional interactions were specific to either the general practitioner or the consultant ratings. Overall, there were more significant effects in general practitioner ratings, suggesting that people de‐emphasize their preferences when selecting consultants.
Structural aspects of recently discovered viral deubiquitinating activities
Authors: Sulea Traian , Lindner Holger A. , Ménard Robert
Published: July 2006

Protein ubiquitination has been identified as a regulatory mechanism in key cellular activities, and deubiquitination is recognized as an important step in processes governed by ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like modifiers. Viruses are known to target ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like modifier pathways using various strategies, including the recruitment of host deubiquitinating enzymes. Deubiquitinating activities have recently been described for proteins from three different virus families (adenovirus, coronavirus and herpesvirus), and predicted for others. This review centers on structural-functional aspects that characterize the confirmed viral deubiquitinating enzymes, and their relationships to established families of cellular deubiquitinating enzymes.
Quality assessment of quantitative analytical results in laboratory medicine by root mean square of measurement deviation / Bewertung der Qualität quantitativer analytischer Ergebnisse in der Laboratoriumsmedizin anhand des quadratischen Mittelwertes der Messabweichung
Authors: Macdonald Rainer
Published: July 2006

The current Guidelines of the German Medical Association (“Richtlinien der Bundesärztekammer”, RiLiBÄK) define minimum requirements for the quality assessment of quantitative measurements in laboratory medicine, in particular concerning metrological controls. Results are validated by internal and external quality controls with the help of maximum permissible values for the standard deviation, i.e. imprecision, as well as for systematic deviations of measurement, i.e. bias. In this article, a novel approach is introduced to merge the two parameters “imprecision” and “bias” into a combined characteristic parameter describing the overall deviation of measurement from a target value. It is shown how the established maximum allowable values for imprecision and bias can be converted into a new maximum permissible value for the new validation parameter, hence taking into account the experience with respect to clinical needs as well as the technical constraints to fulfil those requirements. The reduction of two control rules to a single one is a clear simplification of the assessment procedure and, moreover, allows for some flexibility to fulfil the requirements. In addition, a new approach for the validation of individual measurements of control samples is proposed which allows a fast assessment and is better suited to detect critical deviations of measurement as early as possible. Finally, it is shown how the novel approach can be adapted to determine own control rules with the help of control samples of known target values. The probability to detect deviations of measurement with such internally determined control rules is discussed.
Betrachtungen genetischer Epidemiologen zu diagnostischen Tests mit SNP-Markern / A genetic epidemiologist's perspective on diagnostic tests with SNP markers
Authors: Bickeböller Heike , Fischer Christine
Published: July 2006

Zum validen Wissenstranfer neuer Erkenntnisse über Krankheiten und ihre genetischen Komponenten spielt insbesondere die Entwicklung und Beurteilung genetischer Tests in der Labormedizin zur Prävention, Diagnostik und Therapie eine Rolle. Die genetische Epidemiologie ist eine wesentliche Komponente der interdisziplinären Forschung in der Humangenetik. Sie integriert Familienstrukturen und biologische Zusammenhänge in ihre Methodik. Die wichtigsten statistischen Verfahren der genetischen Epidemiologie, nämlich Segregationsanalysen, Kopplungsanalysen und Assoziationsanalysen, haben alle Auswirkungen auf die Entwicklung genetischer Tests. Letztlich geht es um eine möglichst genaue Modellierung der Genotyp-Phänotyp-Beziehung. Hieraus lassen sich die Maßzahlen eines diagnostischen Tests entwickeln, d.h. Sensitivität, Spezifität und positiver und negativer Vorhersagewert stehen in direktem Zusammenhang mit der Prävalenz der Erkrankungen und den Penetranzen für die Genotypen. Eine evidenzbasierte Beurteilung diagnostischer Tests verlangt die Untersuchung analytischer Validität, klinischer Validität, klinischer Nützlichkeit und ethischer, legaler und sozialer Grundlagen.
The effect of pressure on the elastic constants of Cu, Ag and Au: a molecular dynamics study
Authors: Çiftci Yasemin , Çolakoğlu Kemal , Kazanç Sefa , SonerÖzgen
Published: July 2006

This paper describes the effect of pressure on some the mechanical properties of transition metals Cu, Ag, and Au, such as elastic constants and bulk modulus. Using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, the present study was carried out using the modified many-body Morse potential function expression in the framework of the Embedded Atom Method (EAM). The effect of pressure on equilibrium volume, elastic constants, and bulk modulus were determined, and found to be in agreement with other theoretical calculations and experimental data.
Atomic simulation of the vacancies in BCC metals with MAEAM
Authors: Zhang Jian-Min , Wen Yan-Ni , Xu Ke-Wei
Published: July 2006

The formation energy of the mono-vacancy and both the formation energy and binding energy of the di-and tri-vacancy in BCC alkali metals and transition metals have been calculated by using the modified analytical embedded-atom method (MAEAM). The formation energy of each type of configuration of the vacancies in the alkali metals is much lower than that in the transition metals. From minimum of the formation energy or maximum of the binding energy, the favorable configuration of the di-vacancy and tri-vacancy respectively is the first-nearest-neighbor (FN) or second-nearest-neighbor (SN) di-vacancy and the [112] tri-vacancy constructed by two first-and one second-nearest-neighbor vacancies. It is indicated that there is a concentration tendency for vacancies in BCC metals.
Features of crossing-over in virus-infected tomato
Authors: Chiriac Gheorghe , Andronic Larisa , Bujoreanu Valeriu , Marii Liliana
Published: July 2006

The evidence of increased crossing over rate in tomato hybrids infected with TAV (Tomato aspermy virus), PVX (Potato virus X), TMV (Tobacco mosaic virus), TMV+PVX indicates the recombinogenic effect of viral infection. Cytological studies of the early diakinesis in healthy and virus-infected tomato revealed significant changes in chiasma number and position. The most significant changes were established for bivalents with two interstitial chiasmata and with one terminal and one interstitial. The data obtained indicate redistribution of the chiasmata position and induction of additional exchanges. The virus-induced recombination is segment-specific and depends on the host plant genotype, virus infection and the interaction between them.
Cost‐Effectiveness of Community‐Based Diet and Exercise for Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis and Obesity or Overweight
Authors: Kopp Paul T. , Yang Catherine , Yang Heidi , Katz Jeffrey N. , Paltiel A. David , Hunter David J. , Callahan Leigh F. , Mihalko Shannon L. , Newman Jovita J. , DeVita Paul , Loeser Richard F. , Miller Gary D. , Messier Stephen P. , Losina Elena
Published: March 2024

Objective

Obesity exacerbates pain and functional limitation in persons with knee osteoarthritis (OA). In the Weight Loss and Exercise for Communities with Arthritis in North Carolina (WE‐CAN) study, a community‐based diet and exercise (D + E) intervention led to an additional 6 kg weight loss and 20% greater pain relief in persons with knee OA and body mass index (BMI) >27 kg/m2 relative to a group‐based health education (HE) intervention. We sought to determine the incremental cost‐effectiveness of the usual care (UC), UC + HE, and UC + (D + E) programs, comparing each strategy with the “next‐best” strategy ranked by increasing lifetime cost.

Methods

We used the Osteoarthritis Policy Model to project long‐term clinical and economic benefits of the WE‐CAN interventions. We considered three strategies: UC, UC + HE, and UC + (D + E). We derived cohort characteristics, weight, and pain reduction from the WE‐CAN trial. Our outcomes included quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs), cost, and incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs).

Results

In a cohort with mean age 65 years, BMI 37 kg/m2, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index pain score 38 (scale 0–100, 100 = worst), UC leads to 9.36 QALYs/person, compared with 9.44 QALYs for UC + HE and 9.49 QALYS for UC + (D + E). The corresponding lifetime costs are $147,102, $148,139, and $151,478. From the societal perspective, UC + HE leads to an ICER of $12,700/QALY; adding D + E to UC leads to an ICER of $61,700/QALY.

Conclusion

The community‐based D + E program for persons with knee OA and BMI >27kg/m2 could be cost‐effective for willingness‐to‐pay thresholds greater than $62,000/QALY. These findings suggest that incorporation of community‐based D + E programs into OA care may be beneficial for public health.

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Making the Case for Scaling Up Microwave Sintering of Ceramics
Authors: Aman Bashu , Acharya Sampada , Reeja‐Jayan B.
Published: March 2024

The densification and sintering of ceramics using microwaves is first reported in the mid‐1960s. Today, the reduced carbon footprint of this process has renewed interest as it uses less energy overall compared to conventional process heating/furnaces. However, scaling up and commercializing the microwave sintering process of ceramics remains a formidable challenge. As a contactless method, microwave sintering offers geometric flexibility over other field‐assisted sintering processes. Yet, the inability to address multiscale, multiphysics‐driven heterogeneities arising during microwave coupling limits discussions about a future scale‐up process. Herein, the case is made that unlike 60 years ago, new advances in multiscale computational modeling, materials characterization, control systems, and software open up new avenues for addressing these challenges. More importantly, the rise of additive manufacturing techniques demands the innovation of sintering processes in the ceramics community for realizing near‐net‐shaped and complex parts for applications ranging from medical implants to automotive and aerospace parts.
Electrochromic Passive Matrix Display Utilizing Diode‐Like Redox Reactions on Indium‐Tin‐Oxide
Authors: Olsson Oliver , Gugole Marika , Blake Jolie C. , Petsagkourakis Ioannis , Andersson Ersman Peter , Dahlin Andreas
Published: March 2024

Recent years have shown many advances in the development of tunable structural colors by combining nanostructures with electrochromic materials. One main goal is to develop energy saving color displays that rely on ambient light instead of being emissive. However, all displays need to be pixelated to show arbitrary images and few studies have addressed the challenge of preparing and controlling individual electrochromic pixels. Herein, a very simple method to reach this milestone by using passive matrix addressing is presented, which requires no additional electronic components in the pixels. It is shown that the common transparent conductor indium tin oxide (ITO) in non‐aqueous electrolytes exhibits the diode‐like behavior (threshold in voltage in relation to current and coloration) necessary to prevent significant cross‐talk between pixels. The chemical nature of the redox activity that enables this behavior is attributed to omnipresent oxygen and the formation of superoxide ions. Additionally, it is shown that a gel‐like electrolyte can be prepared by optical lithography, which makes the concept compatible with patterning of pixels at high resolution. This method for preparing pixelated displays should be compatible with practically any type of electrochromic surface in both reflective and transmissive configurations. Also, the counter electrode maintains excellent transparency since it simply consists of ITO. The results should prove very useful as the research field of tunable structural colors moves from proof‐of‐concept to real devices.
Single‐Cell RNA‐Sequencing‐Aided Covalent Organic Frameworks‐Based Microneedle Design Targeting Phototherapy Resistant Tumor Cell
Authors: Zhang Boxin , Zhang Liang , Wang Wuyin , Yang Enli , Song An , Xiong Dian , Yang Qi‐Chao , Li Hao , Deng Hexiang , Sun Zhi‐Jun
Published: March 2024

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) exhibit immense potential for phototherapy due to their exceptional light absorption, photostability, and biocompatibility. Nevertheless, tumor cells can develop resistance to phototherapy after an initial response, posing a significant challenge for complete eradication. In this study, a COF‐based photosensitizer, TCN‐PPDA‐COF, is designed with outstanding photothermal properties and delivered to tumors using microneedles (MN) to enhance cancer phototherapy. Single‐cell RNA‐sequencing (scRNA‐seq) technology is then utilized to explore the mechanisms underlying tumor cell adaptation to COF‐mediated phototherapy. The scRNA‐seq analysis revealed that phototherapy‐resistant tumor cells displayed elevated expression of HIF‐1α and VEGF signaling pathways, fostering intratumoral angiogenesis and facilitating their continued survival during phototherapy. In response to this phenomenon, a unique CA‐microneedle (MN) patch is developed, tailored for co‐delivering TCN‐PPDA‐COF and angiogenesis inhibitors AL3818 to the tumor site. The CA‐MN patches can effectively inhibit angiogenesis in tumors while mediating phototherapy, thereby obliterating the phototherapy‐resistant tumor cells. In 4T1 tumor‐bearing mouse model, the CA‐MN patches achieved nearly complete regression of tumor grafts and activated host anti‐tumor immunity, thereby enhancing the response rate of αPD‐1 and effectively restraining tumor metastasis and recurrence. This study underscored an ingenious approach to modify COF‐MN patches through scRNA‐seq technology.
Promising VO2(B)/rGO Heterojunction Cathode for Building High‐Capacity and Long‐Lifespan Ca‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Yu , Wang Junjun , Zhang Wenwei , Chao Feiyang , Li Jinghao , Kong Qinghong , Qiao Fan , Zhang Lei , Huang Meng , An Qinyou
Published: March 2024

Calciumion batteries (CIBs) are an appealing energy storage technology owing to the low redox potential of Ca2+/Ca and the abundant Ca reserves in the earth's crust. However, suitable cathode materials with high capacity and long lifespan are scarce. Herein, VO2(B)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) heterojunction formed by interfacial V─O─C bonds is constructed and first reported as a cathode material for CIBs, which exhibits an ultrahigh discharge capacity of 319.2 mAh g−1 and exceptional long lifespan (3000 cycles at 500 mA g−1 with capacity retention of 85%). In addition, VO2(B)/rGO heterojunction also shows an outstanding rate capability at 50 °C (127.1 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1). The remarkable electrochemical performance is attributed to the big tunnel structures of VO2(B) and the role of rGO in enhancing electronic conductivity. Density functional theory calculations reveal a feasible Ca2+ diffusion path at the interface. Furthermore, a reversible single‐phase insertion/extraction reaction is revealed by in situ X‐ray diffraction, ex situ Raman, and ex situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This work demonstrates that VO2(B)/rGO holds great potential for building high‐capacity and long‐lifespan CIBs.
Ultra‐Stable Yellow Monolithic Perovskite Quantum Dots Film for Backlit Display
Authors: Lin Jidong , Chen Shuxin , Ye Weichao , Zeng Yongxi , Xiao Han , Pang Tao , Zheng Yuanhui , Zhuang Bin , Huang Feng , Chen Daqin
Published: March 2024

Perovskite quantum dots (PeQDs) are seen as the credible alternative to traditional QDs ascolor converter in liquid crystal display (LCD). Unfortunately, PeQDs sufferfrom instability and color separation, and the prepared PeQDs enhanced films(PQDFs) need the protection of expensive barrier layers, which significantly increases price and limits their application. Herein, large‐area yellow monolithic PQDF is fabricated with both green CsPbBr3 and red CsPbBr1I2QDs encapsulated in the dual matrices of inorganic glass and polypropylene (PP) via an industrialized melt extruding & rolling method. The PQDF shows high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of 92% and narrow full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 19 nm (green) and 33 nm (red). Importantly, the bare PQDF without barrier layers can pass harsh aging test at 85 °C/85% RH and reach anoperating T90 lifetime over 1000 h. Finally, a white backlit unit is designed by coupling yellow monolithic PQDF with blue light guide panel, and the constructed prototype display shows superior color rendering performance forits narrow green/red emissions, reaching a color gamut of 110% National Television System Committee (NTSC). This work provides a novel and easy‐to‐industrialize route to prepare PQDFs to realize their commercial application in backlit display.
Reverse‐Current Tolerance for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Activity of Lead‐Decorated Nickel Catalysts in Zero‐Gap Alkaline Water Electrolysis Systems
Authors: Jung Sang‐Mun , Kim Yoona , Lee Byung‐Jo , Jung Hyeonjung , Kwon Jaesub , Lee Jinhyeon , Kim Kyu‐Su , Kim Young‐Woo , Kim Ki‐Jeong , Cho Hyun‐Seok , Park Jong Hyeok , Han Jeong Woo , Kim Yong‐Tae
Published: March 2024

Alkaline water electrolysis (AWE) systems offer a cost‐effective and scalable approach for large‐scale hydrogen production using renewable energy sources. However, their susceptibility to load fluctuations, particularly the reverse‐current (RC) phenomenon during shutdown events, poses a significant challenge to the long‐term stability and scalability of these systems. Herein, a catalytic approach for enhancing the RC tolerance in AWE systems by using Pb‐decorated Ni cathode catalysts (Pb/Ni) is introduced. The oxidation of Pb/Ni by repeated RC lowers the electromotive force for the reverse current operation, and consequently, imparts RC tolerance. Intriguingly, contrary to the expectation that the decoration with lead, an inert material for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), will interfere with the hydrogen generation of the Ni catalyst, the presence of Pb on the Ni cathode after the RC flow promotes both the proton desorption and water‐dissociation steps, improving the HER activity. Furthermore, the AWE stack testing with Pb/Ni catalysts is perfectly operated, demonstrating remarkably enhanced RC tolerance during startup/shut‐down (SU/SD) testing protocol. This paper presents a new strategy for mitigating the AWE performance degradation induced by RC flow and for achieving Pb/Ni catalysts with improved operational durability against RC flow in AWE systems.
Self‐Healing Elastic Electronics: Materials Design, Mechanisms, and Applications
Authors: Wan Yi , Li Xiang‐Chun , Yuan Haotian , Liu Daxiong , Lai Wen‐Yong
Published: March 2024

Traditional electronic devices inevitably undergo degradation over time due to deformation, fatigue, or mechanical damage, ultimately resulting in device failure. To overcome this issue, researchers have pioneered the field of elastic electronics, incorporating higher mechanical tensile properties or strain resistance into electronic devices. Elastic materials, especially self‐healing elastomers (SHEs) are regarded as a crucial component in elastic electronics, offering the potential for restoring functionality and prolonging the lifespan of electronic devices. SHEs possess remarkable ability to tolerate significant deformation and utilize intrinsic dynamic chemical bonds to autonomously repair themselves from varying degrees of damage. The acquisition of intrinsic SHEs is key to the development of self‐healing elastic electronics and has attracted global attention. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the current advancements in self‐healing elastic electronics. First, the various self‐healing mechanisms present in elastomeric material systems are summarized. Second, the design strategies for constructing SHEs based on self‐healing mechanisms are reviewed in detail, with a particular emphasis on dynamic covalent and non‐covalent bonds. Subsequently, various optoelectronic applications of SHEs in elastic electronics are summarized. Finally, the challenges and prospects that lie ahead in order to foster further development in this rapidly growing field are outlined.
Direct‐Current Triboelectric Nanogenerators Based on Contact–Separation Mode and Conductive–Adhesive Interface
Authors: Shi Kunming , Chai Bin , Zou Haiyang , Wen Zhen , Liu Yijie , He Meng , Chen Jie , Jiang Pingkai , Huang Xingyi
Published: March 2024

Direct‐current triboelectric nanogenerators (DC‐TENGs), which are used in smart electronics and energy storage, have attracted tremendous scientific interest owing to their rectification‐free and high energy utilization efficiency. In this study, the authors propose a new type of DC‐TENG that operates in the contact–separation mode with a unique adhesive–conductive interface for the first time. The results demonstrate that the TENG output increases with increasing interfacial adhesion strength; both the adhesive polymer and conductive tribomaterial are essential factors for the DC output. The proposed mechanism is based on mechanoion generation via covalent bond cleavage during material transfer and the charge leakage effect. Specifically, the DC‐TENG exhibits unique frequency‐decreasing and force‐enhancing output characteristics. It can directly drive LEDs or charge commercial capacitors. By integrating a stretchable electrode, an adhesive‐based single‐electrode TENG can be used as a strain sensor or material detector. This work presents a new type of DC‐TENG with a conventional two‐electrode configuration and provides new perspectives on the fundamental research and applications of DC‐TENGs.
Droplet‐Directed Anisotropic Assembly of Semifootball‐Like Carbon Nanoparticles with Multimodal Pore Architectures
Authors: Guo Peiting , Zhao Ruizheng , Zhang Zekai , Li Jinying , Zhang Wei , Wang Aixia , Kang Tianke , Lian Cheng , Guo Ziyang , Wang Jin , Zhang Jiangwei , Ma Yuzhu
Published: March 2024

Hierarchical porous carbon nanoparticles, with tailored asymmetric morphologies and pore structures, have great implications in high‐performance electrode materials. However, the controlled synthesis of anisotropic carbon nanoparticles with tailored multimodal pore structures remains a challenge. Herein, a droplet‐directed anisotropic assembly approach to synthesize asymmetric carbon nanoparticles with macro/mesopores is demonstrated. This synthesis relies on the anisotropic growth of mesoporous polydopamine (PDA) seeds on the emulsion interfaces and the subsequent immersion of 1,3,5‐trimethylbenzene (TMB) droplets into the seeds. The obtained carbon nanoparticles present a semifootball‐shaped morphology with a high surface area (383 m2 g−1), well‐controlled macropores (≈105 nm), and mesopores (≈3.8 nm). By tuning the polarity of the oil phase, the morphologies transform from non‐porous spheres to semifootball‐like architectures and finally to nano‐ellipsoid with meso‐channels. The pore structures are further optimized by ZnCl2 activation, and the semifootball‐like carbon nanoparticles with modulated pore compositions deliver a high reversible capability, excellent rate performance (215 F g−1 at 0.05 A g−1 and 143 F g−1 at 20 A g−1 in organic electrolyte), and enhanced energy density (53.4 Wh Kg−1). Simulation results elucidate the structure–activity relationship between the multistage pore structure and electrochemical performance, i.e., pore hierarchy enhances ion diffusion flux, and large‐mesopore structure facilitates rate performance.
Luminescent Solar Concentrator with Advanced Structure for Reabsorption Loss Suppression and Synergistic Energy Harvesting
Authors: Xia Pengfei , Sun Hongcan , Guo Haotian , Zhao Kaitian , Liang Cai , Lu Changgui , Wang Zhuyuan , Xu Shuhong , Wang Chunlei
Published: March 2024

As large‐area and optically transparent photon harvesting devices, luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) are promising candidates for building‐integrated photovoltaics owing to their high transmittance and resistance to shadowing effects existing in solar cells. Up to now, there are still many challenges in the practical application of LSCs: 1) Reabsorption loss is inevitable during photoluminescence transmission due to indirect illumination of solar cells in LSC system. 2) Satisfactory energy harvesting cannot be achieved in rainy conditions due to the substantial attenuation of the incident light intensity. 3) Evaporation residue on the surface of LSCs leads to device performance degradation. Pioneering researches and feasible strategies for reabsorption loss suppression, energy harvesting in rainy days as well as self‐cleaning property are still lacking demonstration. In this work, reabsorption loss is suppressed based on advanced structural LSCs with universally applicable optical spacer layer. Then the integrated LSCs with droplet‐based electricity generator (DEG) are proposed for the first time. Such DEG‐LSCs not only realize synergistic harvesting of solar and raindrop energy, but also possess self‐cleaning properties. Finally, a self‐powered temperature and humidity sensing system is designed and demonstrated to provide feasible ideas for the practical application of DEG‐LSCs in self‐powered intelligent buildings.
In situ Surface Reconstruction in Pure Water by Ice‐Confined Freeze‐Thaw Strategy for High‐Performance Core–Shell Structural Perovskite Nanocrystals
Authors: Jin Xudong , Wang Chengqiang , Miao Yanqin , Liu Peizhi , Ji Jianlong , Chang Mengjie , Xu Bingshe , Zhao Min , Tian Jianjun , Guo Junjie
Published: March 2024

Constructing core–shell structure is recognized as an effective approach for the conventional colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) to improve their stability and optical performance in optoelectronic applications. It is, however, still a challenge to develop green manufacture for core–shell lead halide perovskite NCs (PeNCs). Herein, an ice‐confined freeze‐thaw strategy using pure water solvent is devised, which results in the surface reconstruction of CsPbBr3 PeNCs thereby formatting the CsPb2Br5 shell on the CsPbBr3 core to achieve core–shell CsPbBr3@CsPb2Br5. The in situ formation of the CsPb2Br5 shell is attributed to the transformation of the intermediate polyhedral structure with the help of amphiphilic 4‐dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid ligand in the precursor solution. The PeNCs show ultrahigh photoluminescence quantum yield of 95%, remarkable stability and humidity‐resistance. Moreover, both light‐emitting diodes and stretchable fluorescence hydrogels based on the PeNCs exhibit a boosted optical performance and excellent operation stability. The organic solvent‐free and recyclability of this strategy pave a novel way to the environmentally friendly and large‐scale manufacture of high‐quality PeNCs for optoelectronic application.
Dual‐ROS Sensitive Moieties Conjugate Inhibits Curcumin Oxidative Degradation for Colitis Precise Therapy
Authors: Liang Dunsheng , Shen Xiaofan , Han Lu , Ren Hao , Zang Tao , Tan Lulu , Lu Zhaoxiang , Liao Xiaoping , Vetha Berwin Singh Swami , Liu Yahong , Zhang Chaoqun , Sun Jian
Published: March 2024

Curcumin, a natural bioactive polyphenol with diverse molecular targets, is well known for its anti‐oxidation and anti‐inflammatory potential. However, curcumin exhibits low solubility (<1 µg mL−1), poor tissue‐targeting ability, and rapid oxidative degradation, resulting in poor bioavailability and stability for inflammatory therapy. Here, poly(diselenide‐oxalate‐curcumin) nanoparticle (SeOC‐NP) with dual‐reactive oxygen species (ROS) sensitive chemical moieties (diselenide and peroxalate ester bonds) is fabricated by a one‐step synthetic strategy. The results confirmed that dual‐ROS sensitive chemical moieties endowed SeOC‐NP with the ability of targeted delivery of curcumin and significantly suppress oxidative degradation of curcumin for high‐efficiency inflammatory therapy. In detail, the degradation amount of curcumin for SeOC is about 4‐fold lower than that of free curcumin in an oxidative microenvironment. As a result, SeOC‐NP significantly enhanced the antioxidant activity and anti‐inflammatory efficacy of curcumin in vitro analysis by scavenging intracellular ROS and suppressing the secretion of nitric oxide and pro‐inflammatory cytokines. In mouse colitis models, orally administered SeOC‐NP can remarkably alleviate the symptoms of IBD and maintain the homeostasis of gut microbiota. This work provided a simple and effective strategy to fabricate ROS‐responsive micellar and enhance the oxidation stability of medicine for precise therapeutic inflammation.
Tougher Bioadhesives through Dual Stimulation Strategies
Authors: Ang Elwin W. J. , Djordjevic Ivan , Solic Ivan , Goh Chen Yee , Steele Terry W. J.
Published: March 2024

Carbene‐based bioadhesives have favourable attributes for tissue adhesion, including non‐specific bonding to wet and dry tissues, but suffer from relatively weak fracture strength after photocuring. Light irradiation of carbene‐precursor (diazirine) also creates inert side products that are absent under thermal activation. Herein, a dual activation method combines light irradiation at elevated temperatures for the evaluation of diazirine depletion and effects on cohesive properties. A customized photo/thermal‐rheometer evaluates viscoelastic properties, correlated to the kinetics of carbene:diazoalkane ratios via19F NMR). The latter exploits the sensitive ‐CF3functional group to determine joule‐based light/temperature kinetics on trifluoroaryl diazirine consumption. The combination of heat and photoactivation produced bioadhesives that are 3× tougher compared to control. Dual thermal/light irradiation may be a strategy to improve viscoelastic dissipation and toughness of photo‐activated adhesive resins.
Mixing Insulating Commodity Polymers with Semiconducting n‐type Polymers Enables High‐Performance Electrochemical Transistors
Authors: Zeglio Erica , Wang Yazhou , Jain Saumey , Lin Yunfan , Avila Ramirez Alan Eduardo , Feng Kui , Guo Xugang , Ose Helena , Mozolevskis Gatis , Mawad Damia , Yue Wan , Hamedi Mahiar Max , Herland Anna
Published: March 2024

Diluting organic semiconductors with a host insulating polymer is used to increase the electronic mobility in organic electronic devices, such as thin film transistors, while considerably reducing material costs. In contrast to organic electronics, bioelectronic devices such as the organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) rely on both electronic and ionic mobility for efficient operation, making it challenging to integrate hydrophobic polymers as the predominant blend component. This work shows that diluting the n‐type conjugated polymer p(N‐T) with high molecular weight polystyrene (10 KDa) leads to OECTs with over three times better mobility‐volumetric capacitance product (µC*) with respect to the pristine p(N‐T) (from 4.3 to 13.4 F V−1 cm−1 s−1) while drastically decreasing the amount of conjugated polymer (six times less). This improvement in µC* is due to a dramatic increase in electronic mobility by two orders of magnitude, from 0.059 to 1.3 cm2 V−1 s−1 for p(N‐T):Polystyrene 10 KDa 1:6. Moreover, devices made with this polymer blend show better stability, retaining 77% of the initial drain current after 60 minutes operation in contrast to 12% for pristine p(N‐T). These results open a new generation of low‐cost organic mixed ionic‐electronic conductors where the bulk of the film is made by a commodity polymer.
Application of Multilayered Blend Films as Soft, Stretchable, Self‐Adhesive, and Self‐Healing Absorption‐Dominant EMI Shielding and Microwave Absorber
Authors: Tolvanen Jarkko , Nelo Mikko , Alasmäki Heidi , Pitkänen Olli , Vahera Timo , Hannu Jari , Juuti Jari , Jantunen Heli
Published: March 2024

Solution‐processable organic conductor–supramolecular elastomer blends are emerging materials for intrinsically stretchable and autonomously self‐healing organic electronics. Herein, the feasibility of a heterogenous multiphase polymer blend is demonstrated for soft, ultraflexible, self‐adhesive, and self‐healing multilayered film structures for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and microwave absorber (MWA) purposes. The developed soft multilayered films achieve a 5–40 fold improvement in the thickness of the MWA compared to the current state‐of‐the‐art. The thickness normalized reflection loss (RL) is up to 65.26 dB mm−1 with 8.5 GHz bandwidth at 18–26.5 GHz. The maximum thickness normalized EMI shielding effectiveness peaks at up to 175 dB mm−1. The EMI shielding and MWA properties are maintainable up to 150% tensile strain with only a small decrease in the overall attenuation and RL. Furthermore, the developed films are capable of fully autonomously self‐healing and achieve a tough adhesion in temperatures of −30–145 °C, and underwater with maximum single‐lap shear adhesion strength of ≈481.5 kPa to soft thermoplastic polyurethane films. Thus, the developed multilayered films can be utilized for absorption‐dominant EMI shielding or MWA purposes as stretchable coatings. The developed materials also show considerable potential for emerging damage and puncture‐resistant organic soft electronics with autonomous material‐level self‐healing.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Conjugated Polymers for Supercapacitors
Authors: Genene Zewdneh , Xia Zhenyuan , Yang Guijun , Mammo Wendimagegn , Wang Ergang
Published: March 2024

Conjugated polymers have attracted growing attention for versatile applications in energy storage due to their potential benefits including low‐cost processing, molecular tunability, environmental benignity, and high mechanical flexibility. In particular, polymer‐based organic electrode materials have shown significant progress in supercapacitor (SC) applications with superior electrochemical behaviors. The performances of SCs are closely related to the intrinsic characteristics of different polymers in the nanoscale and the morphological features of the polymer‐based electrode materials obtained by different fabrication techniques in the macroscale. This review summarizes the design and synthesis of both p‐type and n‐type conjugated polymers, highlighting the pros and cons of three synthesis techniques: electrochemical polymerization, chemical polymerization, and in situ polymerization. The performances of conjugated polymers in SCs, their cycling stabilities, and structure‐performance relationships are discussed. Moreover, the existing challenges and future directions of polymer‐based SCs are considered with respect to energy density, stability, and large‐scale production to promote commercialization.
Spatiotemporally Mapped Endothelial Dysfunction at Bifurcations in a Coronary Artery‐on‐a‐Chip
Authors: Singh Jasneil , Gambhir Tanya , Goh Tiffany , van Vuuren Isabelle , Gao Lingzi , Wise Steven G. , Waterhouse Anna
Published: March 2024

Atherosclerotic plaques are commonly observed at low shear regions, in particular, the left main coronary artery (LMCA) bifurcation. Low shear regions at bifurcations promote endothelial dysfunction, a key factor initiating atherogenesis, however, mechanisms underlying this process are poorly understood. Dynamic in vitro models are critical to investigate endothelial dysfunction, but current static and vessels‐on‐chip systems typically lack physiologically complex geometries and local shear changes. Here, a bifurcating coronary artery‐on‐a‐chip is developed, mimicking the human LMCA, displaying reduced shear near the bifurcation, verified using computational fluid dynamics simulations. Over 7 days of dynamic culture, human coronary artery endothelial cells aligned with the flow and expressed more Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and intercellular cell adheison molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) at high shear regions (12.7 dyn cm−2) adjacent to, but not at the bifurcation (0–3 dyn cm−2). After tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNFα) stimulation to induce endothelial dysfunction, spatially mapping cellular changes and shear gradients revealed cell alignment is disrupted over a larger area surrounding the bifurcation at a higher shear, and ICAM‐1 expression is increased closer to the bifurcation at a lower shear. This coronary artery‐on‐a‐chip establishes a system to spatially map endothelial cell behavior in response to differential shear and vessel geometry, enabling future studies into plaque initiation events, treatment targets, and drug screening.
Electrostatic Self‐Assembly Heterostructured MXenes/ Wasted PET‐Derived Carbon for Superior Capacitive Energy Storage
Authors: Hou Xin , Ren Penggang , Tian Wenhui , Xue Runzhuo , Tong Wu , Chen Zhengyan , Ren Fang , Jin Yanling
Published: March 2024

Carbon materials have become a focal point in supercapacitors (SCs) due to their perfect charge–discharge behavior, relatively low cost, and excellent electrochemical stability, but the limited electrochemical activity restricts their further development. MXenes (Ti3C2Tx) combine high electrical conductivity, hydrophilicity, and abundance surface functional groups, which contribute to high energy density when compounded with carbon materials. In this work, carbon material derived from mineral water bottles is modified with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) that spontaneously forms into porous heterogeneous structures with Ti3C2Tx under electrostatic interactions. The carbon material hinders the reaggregation of Ti3C2Tx, while Ti3C2Tx increases the electrochemical activity on the surface of the carbon material. A hierarchical porous carbon with a large specific surface area of 1754.3 m2 g−1, promoting the electrolyte migration kinetics and high specific capacitance in 6 m KOH electrolyte (404.1 F g−1 at 1 A g−1). The symmetric SC made as‐prepared carbon electrode shows an extended voltage window (1.8 V), an optimal energy density (31.19 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 450 W kg−1) and a low capacitance decay (1% after 15 000 cycles) in 1.5 m Na2SO4. The preparation of electrode material with a unique structure provides a practical and innovative strategy for the value‐added utilization of waste plastics.
Upconversion Nano‐Composites for Orthogonal Trichromatic Luminescence Aiming at High Color Purity Volume Display
Authors: Zhang Nianfeng , Zheng Song , Lin Shisheng , Pang Tao , Zeng Lingwei , Huang Ping , Huang Feng , Chen Daqin
Published: March 2024

Orthogonal three‐color luminescence materials designed based on lanthanide doping multi‐component nano‐systems have exhibited great potential in volume display technology. Previous studies devoted to integrate the different color emitters within a single core‐shell nanoparticle, which suffers complexity in synthesis and difficulty in repeatability. In this work, an alternative is proposed. Three kinds of upconversion nanocrystals (UCNCs) with relatively simple configurations are prepared separately. Each kind of nanocrystals takes charge of emit a specific color upon one particular excitation (i.e., 808, 980, and 1540 nm pumps). Luminescent property of the mixture containing these nanocrystals are investigated. Excitation wavelength driven orthogonal three‐color luminescence property is found in this mixture. With the combination excitation, the emission color can be modulated, covering a gamut with its aera of 110% sRGB, superior to the previous reports. In addition, a quantized strategy to evaluate the orthogonality of the luminescence is also proposed, which will be useful for the further investigation and development of remote‐type controlled luminescent materials. Finally, the demonstration of colored 3D display application is conducted and presented in this work.