bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A robust discontinuous Galerkin time domain algorithm for penetrable thin layers
Authors: Yang Qian , Wei Bing , Li Lin-Qian , Deng Hao-Chuan ,   School of Physics, Xidian University, Xi’an 710071, China,   The Science and Technology on Electromagnetic Scattering Laboratory, Beijing 110000, China
Published: February 2023

The thin layer problem is common in some engineering cases, such as a coating target or dielectric radome. If the skin depth of the medium behind the thin layer is much smaller than the medium scale, the transmission line impedance boundary can be used to solve the thin layer problem . When both sides of the thin layer are free space or the skin depth of the medium behind the thin layer is greater than or comparable to the scale of the medium, the transmission line impedance boundary condition is not applicable. Such problems need incident and reflected wave data and are also known as penetrable thin-layer problems.

When dealing with penetrable thin-layer problems, we need to give the electromagnetic wave data on both sides. In addition, the thin layer problem can belong with multi-scale problems. The EM simulation is difficult to implement because of the high resource consumption of accurate modeling.

The accurate modeling is a very expensive algorithm, and the mesh-size difference between the thin layer region and the surrounding ordinary region is too large, thus seriously affecting the quality of the elements (tetrahedrons). So, it is difficult to solve the problem of thin layer quickly by using the time-domain discontinuous Galerkin method or even by using local time steps or other optimization methods. To acquire a fast solution, the approximate boundary condition can be used to describe the thin layer. The DGTD has also the advantage of the geometric fitting property. If a thin layer model is curved, we can build a conformal geometric model to deal with the thin layer, thus avoiding the complicated interpolation correction scheme.

In this work, A robust DGTD method for penetrable thin layers is proposed. In our study, we find that the current excitation scheme is prone to divergence when large dielectric coefficients are dealt with and its robustness is poor. To solve this problem, we use the electromagnetic field correction scheme in DGTD to deal with the thin layer problems. In addition, engineering problems may encounter multiple thin layers. In this work, a simulation scheme for multiple thin layers is presented and relevant numerical examples are given to verify it. The results illustrate the accuracy and effectiveness of the method in this work, and the method presented in this work can be used for the fast calculation of complex thin layer problems.
Mechanism of grain refinement in Al-Cu alloy by adding trace La and Al-5Ti-1B
Authors: Yang Lin-Jie , Zhang Li-Li , Jiang Hong-Xiang , He Jie , Zhao Jiu-Zhou ,   Shi-changxu Innovation Centre for Advanced Materials, Institute of Metal Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China,   School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Shenyang 110016, China
Published: February 2023

Grain refinement of aluminium alloys can not only reduce the defects (such as segregation and hot tearing) but also improve the mechanical properties. Adding Al-5Ti-1B master alloy to the melt has become a common method to refine the solidification microstructure of aluminium alloys. A lot of researches have been carried out to uncover the grain refining mechanisms as well as to show the microstructure formation under the effect of grain refiner. These researches demonstrated that the grain refining efficiency is closely related to the number density of TiB2 particles as well as the solute Ti concentration in the melt. However, there exist still problems to be resolved, such as the limited grain refinement potency of Al-5Ti-1B master alloy. Recently, the addition of trace La to the melt has attracted much attention to control the microstructure of aluminium alloys. The Al-Cu alloys are widely applied to the automobile and aerospace fields due to their high strength, good ductility and high temperature properties. It has been reported that Cu can segregate to Al/TiB2 interface in the Al-Cu melt inoculated with Al-5Ti-1B master alloy. But the effect of Cu segregation on the grain refinement result is not clear yet. Meanwhile, whether the grain refinement effect of Al-5Ti-1B master alloy on Al-Cu alloy can be improved by the addition of trace La has not been reported.

Solidification experiments are carried out for Al-2Cu alloy with the addition of Al-5Ti-1B master alloy+ trace La. The synergistic effect of trace La and Al-5Ti-1B on the solidification microstructure of Al-2Cu alloy is investigated. It is found that trace La can effectively enhance the refinement result of Al-2Cu alloy and further diminish the nucleation undercooling. Experimental and calculated results demonstrate that solute Cu segregates to the Al/TiB2 interface and thus increases the interatomic spacing mismatch between Ti (0001) plane of the TiB2 particles and the interfacial monolayer, while La segregation reduces the interatomic spacing mismatch. The trace La addition reduces the interfacial energy between α-Al and TiB2 particles, improves the potency of TiB2 particles to nucleate α-Al, and thus enhances the grain refinement result of Al-5Ti-1B master alloy.
Research progress of applications of freestanding single crystal oxide thin film
Authors: Peng Ruo-Bo , Dong Guo-Hua , Liu Ming ,   Electronic Materials Research Laboratory, Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Faculty of Electronic and Information Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
Published: February 2023

Flexible electronics have aroused great interest of researchers because of their wide applications in information storage, energy harvesting and wearable device. To realize extraordinary functionalities, freestanding single crystal oxide thin film is utilized due to its super elasticity, easy-to-transfer, and outstanding ferro/electric/magnetic properties. Using the state-of-art synthesis methods, functional oxide films of various materials can be obtained in freestanding phase, which eliminates the restrictions from growth substrate and is transferable to other flexible layers. In this work, we first introduce wet etching and mechanical exfoliation methods to prepare freestanding single crystal oxide thin film, then review their applications in ferroelectric memory, piezoelectric energy harvester, dielectric energy storage, correlated oxide interface, and novel freestanding oxide structure. The recent research progress and future outlooks are finally discussed.
Structure of Dunaliella photosystem II reveals conformational flexibility of stacked and unstacked supercomplexes
Authors: Caspy Ido , Fadeeva Maria , Mazor Yuval , Nelson Nathan
Published: February 2023

Photosystem II (PSII) generates an oxidant whose redox potential is high enough to enable water oxidation , a substrate so abundant that it assures a practically unlimited electron source for life on earth . Our knowledge on the mechanism of water photooxidation was greatly advanced by high-resolution structures of prokaryotic PSII . Here, we show high-resolution cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of eukaryotic PSII from the green alga Dunaliella salina at two distinct conformations. The conformers are also present in stacked PSII, exhibiting flexibility that may be relevant to the grana formation in chloroplasts of the green lineage. CP29, one of PSII associated light-harvesting antennae, plays a major role in distinguishing the two conformations of the supercomplex. We also show that the stacked PSII dimer, a form suggested to support the organisation of thylakoid membranes , can appear in many different orientations providing a flexible stacking mechanism for the arrangement of grana stacks in thylakoids. Our findings provide a structural basis for the heterogenous nature of the eukaryotic PSII on multiple levels.
The anti-caspase 1 inhibitor VX-765 reduces immune activation, CD4+ T cell depletion, viral load, and total HIV-1 DNA in HIV-1 infected humanized mice
Authors: Amand Mathieu , Adams Philipp , Schober Rafaela , Iserentant Gilles , Servais Jean-Yves , Moutschen Michel , Seguin-Devaux Carole
Published: February 2023

HIV-1 infection results in the activation of inflammasome that may facilitate viral spread and establishment of viral reservoirs. We evaluated the effects of the caspase-1 inhibitor VX-765 on HIV-1 infection in humanized NSG mice engrafted with human CD34+ hematopoietic stem cells. Expression of caspase-1, NLRP3, and IL-1β was increased in lymph nodes and bone marrow between day 1 and 3 after HIV-1 infection (mean fold change (FC) of 2.08, 3.23, and 6.05, p<0.001, respectively). IFI16 and AIM2 expression peaked at day 24 and coincides with increased IL-18 levels (6.89 vs 83.19 pg/ml, p=0.004), increased viral load and CD4+ T cells loss in blood (p<0.005 and p<0.0001, for the spleen respectively). Treatment with VX-765 significantly reduced TNF-α at day 11 (0.47 vs 2.2 pg/ml, p=0.045), IL-18 at day 22 (7.8 vs 23.2 pg/ml, p=0.04), CD4+ T cells (44.3% vs 36,7%, p=0.01), viral load (4.26 vs 4.89 log 10 copies/ml, p=0.027), and total HIV-1 DNA in the spleen (1 054 vs 2 889 copies /106 cells, p=0.029). We demonstrated that targeting inflammasome activation early after infection may represent a therapeutic strategy towards HIV cure to prevent CD4+ T cell depletion and reduce immune activation, viral load, and the HIV-1 reservoir formation.
Dynamics of co-substrate pools can constrain and regulate metabolic fluxes
Authors: West Robert , Delattre Hadrien , Noor Elad , Feliu Elisenda , Soyer Orkun S
Published: February 2023

Cycling of co-substrates, whereby a metabolite is converted among alternate forms via different reactions, is ubiquitous in metabolism. Several cycled co-substrates are well known as energy and electron carriers (e.g. ATP and NAD(P)H), but there are also other metabolites that act as cycled co-substrates in different parts of central metabolism. Here, we develop a mathematical framework to analyse the effect of co-substrate cycling on metabolic flux. In the cases of a single reaction and linear pathways, we find that co-substrate cycling imposes an additional flux limit on a reaction, distinct to the limit imposed by the kinetics of the primary enzyme catalysing that reaction. Using analytical methods, we show that this additional limit is a function of the total pool size and turnover rate of the cycled co-substrate. Expanding from this insight and using simulations, we show that regulation of these two parameters can allow regulation of flux dynamics in branched and coupled pathways. To support these theoretical insights, we analysed existing flux measurements and enzyme levels from the central carbon metabolism and identified several reactions that could be limited by the dynamics of co-substrate cycling. We discuss how the limitations imposed by co-substrate cycling provide experimentally testable hypotheses on specific metabolic phenotypes. We conclude that measuring and controlling co-substrate dynamics is crucial for understanding and engineering metabolic fluxes in cells.
Nitrogenase resurrection and the evolution of a singular enzymatic mechanism
Authors: Garcia Amanda K , Harris Derek F , Rivier Alex J , Carruthers Brooke M , Pinochet-Barros Azul , Seefeldt Lance C , Kaçar Betül
Published: February 2023

The planetary biosphere is powered by a suite of key metabolic innovations that emerged early in the history of life. However, it is unknown whether life has always followed the same set of strategies for performing these critical tasks. Today, microbes access atmospheric sources of bioessential nitrogen through the activities of just one family of enzymes, nitrogenases. Here, we show that the only dinitrogen reduction mechanism known to date is an ancient feature conserved from nitrogenase ancestors. We designed a paleomolecular engineering approach wherein ancestral nitrogenase genes were phylogenetically reconstructed and inserted into the genome of the diazotrophic bacterial model, Azotobacter vinelandii, enabling an integrated assessment of both in vivo functionality and purified nitrogenase biochemistry. Nitrogenase ancestors are active and robust to variable incorporation of one or more ancestral protein subunits. Further, we find that all ancestors exhibit the reversible enzymatic mechanism for dinitrogen reduction, specifically evidenced by hydrogen inhibition, which is also exhibited by extant A. vinelandii nitrogenase isozymes. Our results suggest that life may have been constrained in its sampling of protein sequence space to catalyze one of the most energetically challenging biochemical reactions in nature. The experimental framework established here is essential for probing how nitrogenase functionality has been shaped within a dynamic, cellular context to sustain a globally consequential metabolism.
Extreme Hydrological Events in January 2022: A Case Study over Telangana and Andhra Pradesh State, India
Authors: Sunanda M. , Prayek S. , Soni Harsha , Srinivas KVS , Ramana Ch.
Published: February 2023

The study will look at extreme rainfall events in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, where both the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons significantly contribute to rainfall. The winter season 2022 was highlighted by unusual rainfall in some districts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in the 2nd week of January 2022, causing significant damage. In this paper, we identify the observational aspects, main synoptic system, physical process, and thermodynamic features leading to such unusual rainfall during the winter season. According to the study's findings, a hailstorm was recorded over Telangana state on January 13, 2022, heavy rain fell in Telangana due to the most active western disturbance as a cyclonic circulation over Rajasthan and Pakistan; on January 14, 2022, heavy to very heavy rain fell in Vizianagaram (16 cm) due to the convergence of winds from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal at lower tropospheric levels over east and adjoining central India and a trough from north interior Karnataka to north interior Odisha. The diurnal and temporal pattern of the hail storm and heavy rainfall over the Andhra Pradesh and Telangana States shows that late evenings are most conducive for the occurrence of extreme rainfall events due to the accumulation of precipitable water.
Tuberculous Osteomyelitis of Mandible in a Young Child– A Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Singh Renu , Pratap Singh Parihar Ajay , Reddy Prashanthi , Nikose Priyanka
Published: February 2023

Aims: To report a case of Tuberculous osteomyelitis of mandible in a young child and highlights the difficulties in establishing diagnosis with clinical and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging findings.

Presentation of Case: A case of 8-year old child with osteomyelitis of the mandible who presented with diffuse swelling of the cheek without the evidence of any active primary foci of tuberculosis. On the basis of clinical findings and radiographic analysis, antitubercular therapy (ATT) was started and on a follow-up visit after six months, the patient showed a resolution of the mandibular lesion.

Discussion: In the oral cavity osteomyelitis commonly occurs due to an odontogenic source of infection. Tuberculosis (TB) is a worldwide public health problem, osteomyelitis due to tuberculosis infection is a rare phenomenon and jaw involvement is even rarer and usually affects older individuals.

Conclusion: Tubercular osteomyelitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis because early identification and rapid implementation of a successful regimen are crucial in minimizing morbidity and the emergence of tuberculosis.
Implementation of superficial radiation therapy (SRT) using SRT‐100 Vision™ for non‐melanoma skin cancer in a Radiation Oncology clinic
Authors: Lee Yongsook C. , Davis Stephen D. , Romaguera William , Chaswal Vibha , Tolakanahalli Ranjini , Gutierrez Alonso N. , Kalman Noah S.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This article describes our experience in implementation of superficial radiation therapy (SRT) using SRT‐100 Vision™ for non‐melanoma skin cancer.

Methods

Following the American Association of Physicists in Medicine Task Group‐61 protocol, absolute output (absorbed dose to water at surface (cGy/min)) was measured for three energies (50, 70, and 100 kV) and for six applicators (1.5–5.0 cm in diameter). Percent depth dose (PDD) and profiles were also measured. Timer testing and ultrasound testing were performed. A treatment time calculation worksheet was created. Quality assurance (QA) of SRT‐100 Vision was implemented. After treatment workflow for our clinic was developed, end‐to‐end (E2E) testing was performed using a Rando phantom. Considerations for treatment using SRT‐100 Vision were made.

Results

Absolute output (cGy/min) decreases as energy increases and applicator size decreases. Due to scatter from the applicator, PDD at depths ≤5 mm does not follow conventional trends but PDD at depths ≥15 mm increases with increasing applicator size. Profiles for the 5 cm applicator do not have strong dependence on depth except profiles at 5 mm for 50 kV. Timer/end errors are negligible for all three energies. Ultrasound images confirm allowed field of view and depth as well as no image artifacts and spatial integrity. Daily, monthly and annual QA of SRT‐100 Vision implemented in our clinic is listed in a table format. E2E testing results (<1%) demonstrate the functionality and performance of our treatment workflow. Our considerations for SRT treatment include patient, applicator size and energy selections, patient setup, and shields.

Conclusions

This article is expected to serve as guidance for Radiation Oncology and/or Dermatology clinics aspiring to initiate an SRT program in their clinics.
Ambient Electrosynthesis toward Single‐Atom Sites for Electrocatalytic Green Hydrogen Cycling
Authors: Zhao Xin , He Daping , Xia Bao Yu , Sun Yujie , You Bo
Published: February 2023

With the ultimate atomic utilization, well‐defined configuration of active sites and unique electronic properties, catalysts with single‐atom sites (SASs) exhibit appealing performance for electrocatalytic green hydrogen generation from water splitting and further utilization via hydrogen–oxygen fuel cells, such that a vast majority of synthetic strategies toward SAS‐based catalysts (SASCs) are exploited. In particular, room‐temperature electrosynthesis under atmospheric pressure offers a novel, safe, and effective route to access SASs. Herein, the recent progress in ambient electrosynthesis toward SASs for electrocatalytic sustainable hydrogen generation and utilization, and future opportunities are discussed. A systematic summary is started on three kinds of ambient electrochemically synthetic routes for SASs, including electrochemical etching (ECE), direct electrodeposition (DED), and electrochemical leaching–redeposition (ELR), associated with advanced characterization techniques. Next, their electrocatalytic applications for hydrogen energy conversion including hydrogen evolution reaction, oxygen evolution reaction, overall water splitting, and oxygen reduction reaction are reviewed. Finally, a brief conclusion and remarks on future challenges regarding further development of ambient electrosynthesis of high‐performance and cost‐effective SASCs for many other electrocatalytic applications are presented.
Lead(II) 2‐Ethylhexanoate for Simultaneous Modulated Crystallization and Surface Shielding to Boost Perovskite Solar Cell Efficiency and Stability
Authors: Yang Tengteng , Zhao Wangen , Yang Yan , Huang Wenliang , Zhao Kui , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: February 2023

The bulk and surface of a perovskite light‐harvesting layer are two pivotal aspects affecting its carrier transport and long‐term stability. In this work, lead(II) 2‐ethylhexanoate (LDE) is introduced via an antisolvent process into perovskite films to change the reaction kinetics of the crystallization process, resulting in a high‐quality perovskite film. Meanwhile, a carboxyl functional group with a long alkyl chain coordinates with the Pb cation, reducing the defect density related to unsaturated Pb atoms. Moreover, the long alkyl chains form a protecting layer at the surface of the perovskite film to prevent chemical attack by water and air, prolonging the lifetime of perovskite devices. Consequently, the assembled device demonstrates a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 24.84%. Both of the thermal and operational stability are significantly improved due to reduced ion‐migration channels.
Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum Inspired Polystyrene‐Brush‐Based Superhigh Sulfur Content Cathodes Enable Lithium–Sulfur Cells with High Mass and Capacity Loading
Authors: Wu Jinlun , Huang Junlong , Cui Yin , Miao Dongtian , Ke Xianlan , Lu Yuheng , Wu Dingcai
Published: February 2023

The development of highly sophisticated biomimetic models is significant yet remains challenging in the electrochemical energy storage field. Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) cells with high sulfur content and high‐sulfur‐loading cathodes are urgently required to meet the fast‐growing demand for electronic devices. Nevertheless, such cathode materials generally suffer from large sulfur agglomeration, nonporous structure, and insufficient conductivity, leading to rapid capacity decay and low sulfur utilization. Herein, inspired by rough endoplasmic reticulum, a 2D polystyrene (PS)‐brush‐based (G‐g‐PS) superhigh‐sulfur‐content (96 wt%) composite(G‐g‐sPS@S) is fabricated via the vulcanization reaction. The vulcanized PS side‐chains and their S8 composites on the nanosheet surface can efficiently provide sulfur species, and the intersheet interstitial pores can provide rapid mass‐transfer channels for redox reactions of sulfur species. Furthermore, the highly sulfophilic vulcanized PS side‐chains are able to effectively inhibit the shuttle effect of polysulfides and regulate their redox process. With these merits, the cells with G‐g‐sPS@S cathodes exhibit an ultralow decay rate of 0.02% per cycle over 400 cycles at 2 C and deliver a superior areal capacity of 12.6 mAh cm−2 even with a high sulfur loading of 10.5 mg cm−2.
Quantum Yield and Stability Improvement of Two‐Dimensional Perovskite Via a Second Fluorinated Insulator Layer
Authors: Ma Pengfei , Zhuang Yuan , Lin Hui , You Guanjun , Xu Gongjie , Cai Bin
Published: February 2023

Aiming at the low luminous‐efficiency of two‐dimensional (2D) perovskite, its quantum yield (QY) and stability are effectively improved by a fluorinated second insulator layer 3,4‐difluoroaniline (F2PA) outside of the first insulator 2‐(2,4‐difluorophenyl) ethylamine (FPEA). The QY of perovskite with two insulator layers is improved by 3.4‐time in contrast with its counterpart with one insulator, which originates from the defect suppression and reduction of exciton Bohr radius by the second layer. The optical stability has extended 1.5‐time by the introduced second layer, as an isolation role for inner decomposed products to volatilize and for outer water molecules to penetrate. The perovskite with two insulator layers retained 90% of its initial optical properties in relative humidity 90%–95% atmosphere for 600 h, meanwhile only 50% for its counterpart with one layer. Two‐more fluorine with stronger hydrophobicity can account for this feature. Adding a second insulator layer is an effective strategy to engineer 2D perovskites and push forward its applications in optoelectronic devices.
Heterostructures Combining Upconversion Nanoparticles and Metal–Organic Framework: Fundamental, Classification, and Theranostic Applications
Authors: Du Jiarui , Jia Tao , Zhang Jinghan , Chen Guanying
Published: February 2023

Integrating biocompatible metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs), capable of converting near‐infrared (NIR) light into visible or ultraviolet emissions, affords unique UCNPs@MOFs heterostructures for nanomedicine. Alongside inherited advantages from parent UCNPs on imaging and parent MOFs with porous structure on chemodrugs delivery, upconversion Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) from UCNPs to molecular moieties in MOFs offers unique abilities to probe or modulate intracellular and tumor microenvironments at high spatiotemporal precision. As a result, UCNPs@MOFs heterostructures allow to detect hint number of biomolecules, regulate intracellular ion concentrations for tumor cell killing and lamellipodia‐induced cell metastasis, on‐demand release NO gas molecules for antibacterial therapy and neurotherapy, and perform tumor microenvironment‐responsive multimodal therapy, all achieved possible using tissue‐penetrating NIR light stimulation of low photon flux. In this work, recent progress on the construction and applications of UCNPs@MOFs heterostructures toward these regards is surveyed. An emphasis is placed on the classification of heterostructures (Janus, core@satellite, core@shell) with distinct geometric shapes as well as the fundamental upconversion FRET mechanism underpinning all their theranostic applications. Cutting‐edge applications on combined therapies, drug delivery, multimodal imaging, and biosensing are also highlighted, along with provided perspectives on the future development.
Recyclable Time–Temperature Indicator Enabled by Light Storage in Particles
Authors: Song Yifan , Du Jiaren , Yang Rujun , Lin Cunjian , Chen Wenjing , Wu Zishuang , Lin Hengwei , Chen Xi , Zhuang Yixi , Xie Rong‐Jun
Published: February 2023

Time–temperature indicator (TTI) technologies allow for nondestructive and real‐time quality management of perishable products during the entire transport–storage process, which provides an important guarantee for the product safety of end users. However, the existing TTI technologies still have shortcomings in recyclability, sensitivity, and environmental tolerance, limiting their widespread applications. Herein, a new TTI route based on the light storage effect in persistent luminescent (PersL) materials is proposed. Such TTI is designed on account of the principle that the release rate of light‐induced trapped carriers in PersL materials is closely dependent on the storage time and temperature, enabling to establish a correlation between the number of residual carriers and the freshness of perishable products. Taking KZnF3:Mn2+ as a model material, the light‐storage‐based TTI technology shows excellent recyclability, reliability, and environmental stability. This work reveals great potentials of PersL phosphors as information recording materials in advanced TTI application and next‐generation biological detection technology.
Reconfigurable and Polarization‐Dependent Grating Absorber for Large‐Area Emissivity Control Based on the Plasmonic Phase‐Change Material In3SbTe2
Authors: Conrads Lukas , Honné Natalie , Ulm Andreas , Heßler Andreas , Schmitt Robert , Wuttig Matthias , Taubner Thomas
Published: February 2023

Metasurfaces with perfect infrared absorption promise integrated filters and compact detector elements with narrowband thermal emission. Phase‐change materials (PCMs) are prime candidates for active, non‐volatile absorption tuning. Commonly, the response of the entire metasurface is tuned, while local adaptions remain elusive. In this work, flexible encoding of different absorption/emission properties within a metasurface is shown. The plasmonic PCM In3SbTe2 (IST) is employed to obtain control over the emissivity by patterning an adaptable grating absorber metasurface. Using a commercial direct laser writing setup, the IST is locally switched from an amorphous dielectric into a crystalline metallic state, and cm‐sized stripe gratings are written above a reflecting mirror. Modification of already written patterns is demonstrated by changing the laser power and thus the IST stripe width to encode different polarization‐sensitive patterns with nearly perfect absorption into the same metasurface. Finally, an apparent local temperature pattern due to the large‐area emissivity shaping metasurface is measured with a conventional thermal camera. The results pave the way towards low‐cost, large‐area, and adaptable patterning of metasurfaces with wavelength and polarization‐selective perfect absorption, enabling applications like enhanced thermal detection, infrared camouflage, or encoding anti‐counterfeiting symbols.
Realization of Highly Efficient InP Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes through In‐Depth Investigation of Exciton‐Harvesting Layers
Authors: Kim Jaeyoul , Hong Ahyoung , Hahm Donghyo , Lee Hyunkoo , Bae Wan Ki , Lee Taesoo , Kwak Jeonghun
Published: February 2023

Quantum dot light‐emitting diodes (QLEDs) are considered promising candidates for several optoelectronic applications; however, they are plagued by the over‐injection of electrons compared to holes, which limits device efficiency. Studies have attempted to reuse the leaked electrons and transfer recombination energies via inserting an exciton‐harvesting layer (EHL) between the emissive layer (EML) and hole transport layer (HTL). This study conducts a detailed analysis of the energy transfer mechanisms to obtain better insights into improving the device performance. First, by analyzing the electroluminescence (EL) spectra and exciton dynamics, the effect of EHLs comprising phosphorescence (PH) or thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) blue dopant is compared. Through parallel incorporation of those EHLs on QLEDs and organic LEDs, the minimal contribution of the PH‐EHL to energy transfer in QLEDs is confirmed, whereas the TADF‐EHL has a significant contribution. Second, highly efficient top‐emission green QLEDs with the TADF‐EHL are achieved. They exhibit a maximum luminance (L) and current efficiency (CE) of 40700 cd m−2 and 68.0 cd A−1, respectively, which are the highest among the reported values for green‐emitting InP QLEDs. The proposed approaches are expected to provide aid in the realization of highly efficient QLEDs from the analysis to the device optimization stage.
Liquid‐State Dithiocarbonate‐Based Polymeric Additives with Monodispersity Rendering Perovskite Solar Cells with Exceptionally High Certified Photocurrent and Fill Factor
Authors: Kim Kyusun , Han Jiye , Lee Sangsu , Kim Soyeon , Choi Jin‐Myung , Nam Jeong‐Seok , Kim Dawoon , Chung In , Kim Tae‐Dong , Manzhos Sergei , Choi Seung Ju , Song Ji Won , Kim Dong Suk , Do Jung Yun , Jeon Il
Published: February 2023

Dithiocarbonate‐based non‐hygroscopic polymers with a glass transition temperature (Tg) and polydispersity index (PDI) of ≈4 °C and 1, respectively, are synthesized through living cationic ring‐opening polymerization. These liquid‐state polymers are characterized by monodispersity based on the low Tg and PDI, rendering remarkable miscibility with the perovskite precursors without aggregation. Accordingly, these polymers are added to perovskite solar cells (PSCs) to enhance their power conversion efficiency (PCE). The PCE of reference PSCs increases from 19.70% to 23.52% after direct addition of the synthesized polymer. This efficiency improvement is attributed to the considerable increases in short‐circuit current density (JSC) and fill factor (FF), resulting from the augmented size and defect passivation of perovskite crystals induced by added polymers. In fact, the PCE and JSC of the devices measured in the laboratory and the certification center are the highest among the reported polymer‐added PSCs, thanks to the great miscibility of the new polymers leading to the large amount addition which enables more thorough passivation among the grain boundaries. The improvement in open‐circuit voltage falls short as compared to that in JSC and FF, ascribed to the relatively moderate interaction strength between perovskite materials and dithiocarbonate groups.
Halogenated Hole‐Transport Molecules with Enhanced Isotropic Coordination Capability Enable Improved Interface and Light Stability of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Shen Lina , Wang Sijing , Zheng Lingfang , Li Da , Li Zhijun , Xing Yifan , Guo Kunpeng , Xie Liqiang , Wei Zhanhua
Published: February 2023

Interfacial defects are one of the main origins of the hysteresis effect and limit the efficiency and light stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, the authors propose to grant the hole‐transport materials’ (HTMs) improved isotropic coordination and defect passivation through simple halogenation, enabling a robust perovskite/hole‐transport layer interface while avoiding the use of an external passivation layer. First‐principles simulations and experimental results show that the halogenated HTMs offer more isotropic coordination sites for Pb2+ ions than the halogen‐free ones, thus providing the enhanced passivating ability of defects regardless of their molecular orientation at the surface of perovskite films. Consequently, the PSCs based on the chlorinated spiro[fluorene‐9,9′‐xanthene]‐based HTM show suppressed nonradiative recombination, delivering a remarkable open‐circuit voltage (VOC) enhancement (from 1.07 to 1.14 V) and a minimal hysteresis index of as low as 0.07%. The corresponding cells also show much improved light stability, retaining 81% of the initial efficiency after 1000 h of continuous illumination at the maximum power point. This work demonstrates that a solid isotropic coordination capability of HTMs with Pb2+ is critical to forming a robust interface and improving the PSCs’ light stability.
Chronic intranasal corticosteroid treatment induces degeneration of olfactory sensory neurons in normal and allergic rhinitis mice
Authors: Li Pu , Wang Na , Kai Luo , Si Jinyuan , Wang Zhenlin
Published: February 2023

Background

Nasal eosinophilic inflammation is the therapeutic target for olfactory dysfunction in allergic rhinitis (AR). Intranasal corticosteroids are commonly considered to offer targetable benefit given their immunosuppressive property. However, experimental evidence suggests that continuous corticosteroid exposure may directly cause olfactory damage by disrupting the turnover of olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs). This potentially deleterious effect of corticosteroids calls into question their long‐term topical use for treating olfactory loss related to AR. The aim of this study was to assess the impacts of chronic intranasal corticosteroid treatment on olfactory function and OSN population in mice under normal and pathological conditions.

Methods

BALB/c mice were intranasally treated with fluticasone propionate (FP, 0.3 mg/kg) for up to 8 weeks. Additional mice were used to establish an ovalbumin‐induced mouse model of AR, followed by nasal challenge with ovalbumin for 8 weeks in the presence or absence of intranasal FP treatment. The authors examined olfactory function, OSN existence, neuronal turnover, and nasal inflammation using behavioral test, histological analyses, Western blotting, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Intranasal treatment with FP for 8 weeks (FP‐wk8) reduced odor sensitivity in normal mice. This reduction was concomitant with loss of OSNs and the axons projecting to the olfactory bulb, primarily resulting from increased neuronal apoptosis. In FP‐wk8 AR mice, intranasal FP treatment attenuated olfactory impairment and eosinophilic inflammation but failed to reconstitute OSN population and axonal projections.

Conclusion

These results suggest that chronic intranasal corticosteroid treatment contributes to OSN degeneration that may reduce the therapeutic effectiveness for AR‐related olfactory loss.
The application of hydrophilic polyvinyl alcohol coatings filled with different loadings of zinc oxide nanoparticles to mitigate salinity stress of the wheat seeds
Authors: Gohari Nazanin Rostami , Modiri Sina , Yari Hossein , Saffari Mahboub , Baghizadeh Amin
Published: February 2023

In this work the effects of wheat seeds coating with polyvinyl alcohol (0 and 1.5 wt.%) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (0, 2, 4, and 6 wt.% of the amount of polyvinyl alcohol) under salinity stress (0 and 2 ds/m) to increase the seed resistance under non‐biological stresses and to improve its productivity were studied. To evaluate the properties of the applied coating on the studied seeds, films consisting of polyvinyl alcohol and zinc oxide nanoparticles were also prepared and characterized by tensile tests, differential scanning calorimeter, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Atomic force microscopy, moisture absorption, hardness, contact angle measurements, and scanning electronic microscope. A laboratory study was conducted as factorial in a completely randomized design with three replications to evaluate the germination indices. The films containing nanoparticles had a higher modulus and elongation at break. However, increasing the nanoparticles to 6 wt.% reduced the tensile strength by 29%. In addition, the application of nanoparticles caused an increase in film hardness, a decrease in moisture absorption, and an increase in contact angle. As results, the mechanical properties of the seed polymer coating were introduced as one of the most influential factors in seed germination performance. Regarding the effect of nanoparticles, zinc oxide nanoparticles significantly reduced the adverse effects of salinity stress.
Predatory predictions and the ethics of predictive analytics
Authors: Martin Kirsten
Published: February 2023

In this paper, I critically examine ethical issues introduced by predictive analytics. I argue firms can have a market incentive to construct deceptively inflated true‐positive outcomes: individuals are over‐categorized as requiring a penalizing treatment and the treatment leads to mistakenly thinking this label was correct. I show that differences in power between firms developing and using predictive analytics compared to subjects can lead to firms reaping the benefits of predatory predictions while subjects can bear the brunt of the costs. While profitable, the use of predatory predictions can deceive stakeholders by inflating the measurement of accuracy, diminish the individuality of subjects, and exert arbitrary power. I then argue that firms have a responsibility to distinguish between the treatment effect and predictive power of the predictive analytics program, better internalize the costs of categorizing someone as needing a penalizing treatment, and justify the predictions of subjects and general use of predictive analytics. Subjecting individuals to predatory predictions only for a firms' efficiency and benefit is unethical and an arbitrary exertion of power. Firms developing and deploying a predictive analytics program can benefit from constructing predatory predictions while the cost is borne by the less powerful subjects of the program.
In vitro triple culture model of retinoblastoma for pre‐clinical investigations
Authors: Jahagirdar Devashree , Jain Ratnesh , Dandekar Prajakta
Published: February 2023

Background

Retinoblastoma (Rb) is a rare cancer of the retina that occurs during early childhood. The disease is relatively rare but aggressive, accounting for ∼3% of childhood cancers. Treatment modalities encompass the administration of large doses of chemotherapeutic drugs, which result in multiple side‐effects. Therefore, it is essential to have safe and effective newer therapies and suitable physiologically relevant, alternative‐to‐animal, in vitro cell culture‐based models to enable rapid and efficient evaluation of potential therapies.

Methodology

This investigation was focused on the development of a triple co‐culture model comprising Rb, retinal epithelium, and choroid endothelial cells, using a protein coating cocktail, to recapitulate this ocular cancer under in vitro conditions. This resulting model was used for screening drug toxicity, based on the growth profile of Rb cells, using carboplatin as the model drug. Further, a combination of bevacizumab and carboplatin was evaluated using the developed model, to lower the concentration of carboplatin and thereby reduce its physiological side‐effects.

Major Results

The effect of drug treatment on the triple co‐culture was assessed by increase in the apoptotic profile of Rb cells. Further, the barrier properties were found to be lower with a decrease in the angiogenetic signals that included expression of vimentin. Measurement of cytokine levels signified reduced inflammatory signals due to the combinatorial drug treatment.

Conclusions

These findings validated that the triple co‐culture Rb model was suitable for evaluating anti‐Rb therapeutics and could thereby decrease the immense load on animal trials, which are the primary screens employed for evaluating retinal therapies.
Regional anesthesia for scapulothoracic fixation surgery: Anatomic review and case series
Authors: Vinsard Patrice A. , Niesen Adam D.
Published: February 2023

Scapulothoracic fixation surgery is a surgical intervention used for symptom relief in patients who suffer from scapular dysfunction. To date, there are few reports on the use of regional anesthesia for pain control in patients undergoing this procedure. The nerve supply of the scapula and surrounding tissues is complex and arises from both cervical and thoracic nerve roots. We suggest the use of a combined technique for perioperative pain control in patients undergoing scapulothoracic surgery. After a review of the relevant anatomy, we present four cases using combined regional techniques for postoperative pain control. The techniques utilized include thoracic paravertebral blocks with shoulder blockade, resulting in satisfactory pain control.
Gene mutation analysis using next‐generation sequencing and its clinical significance in patients with myeloid neoplasm: A multi‐center study from China
Authors: Li Junnan , Pei Li , Liang Simin , Xu Shuangnian , Wang Yi , Wang Xiao , Liao Yi , Zhan Qian , Cheng Wei , Yang Zesong , Tang Xiaoqiong , Zhang Hongbin , Xiao Qing , Chen Jianbin , Liu Lin , Wang Li
Published: February 2023

Background

Myeloid neoplasms (MN) tend to relapse and deteriorate. Exploring the genomic mutation landscape of MN using next‐generation sequencing (NGS) is a great measure to clarify the mechanism of oncogenesis and progression of MN.

Methods

This multicenter retrospective study investigated 303 patients with MN using NGS from 2019 to 2021. The characteristics of the mutation landscape in the MN subgroups and the clinical value of gene variants were analyzed.

Results

At least one mutation was detected in 88.11% of the patients (267/303). TET2 was the most common mutation in the cohort, followed by GATA2, ASXL1, FLT3, DNMT3A, and TP53. Among patients with myeloid leukemia (ML), multivariate analysis showed that patients aged ≥60 years had lower overall survival (OS, p = 0.004). Further analysis showed TET2, NPM1, SRSF2, and IDH1 gene mutations, and epigenetic genes (p < 0.050) presented significantly higher frequency in older patients. In patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and myelodysplastic neoplasms (MPN), univariate analysis showed that BCORL1 had a significant impact on OS (p = 0.040); however, in multivariate analysis, there were no factors significantly associated with OS. Differential analysis of genetic mutations showed FLT3, TP53, MUC16, SRSF2, and KDM5A mutated more frequently (p < 0.050) in secondary acute myeloid leukemia (s‐AML) than in MDS and MPN. TP53, U2AF1, SRSF2, and KDM5A were mutated more frequently (p < 0.050) in s‐AML than in primary AML. KDM5A was observed to be restricted to patients with s‐AML in this study, and only co‐occurred with MUC16 and TP53 (2/2, 100%). Another mutation was MUC16, and its co‐occurrence pattern differed between s‐AML and AML. MUC16 mutations co‐occurred with KDM5A and TP53 in 66.7% (2/3) of patients with s‐AML and co‐occurred with CEBPA in 100% (4/4) of patients with AML.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate different genomic mutation patterns in the MN subgroups and highlight the clinical value of genetic variants.
In Vitro Antibacterial Efficacy of Cymbopogon flexuosus Essential Oil against Aeromonas hydrophila of Fish Origin and in Silico Molecular Docking of the Essential Oil Components against DNA Gyrase‐B and Their Drug‐Likeness
Authors: Chowdhury Hemanta , Kumar Bera Asit , Subhasmita Raut Subhashree , Chandra Malick Ramesh , Sekhar Swain Himanshu , Saha Ajoy , Kumar Das Basanta
Published: February 2023

In aquaculture, diseases caused by the Aeromonads with high antibiotic resistance are among the most common and troublesome diseases. Application of herbs is emerging as a tool in controlling these diseases. Plant extracts besides disease control, favor various physiological activities in fish. In this study, essential oil of Cymbopogon flexuosus (Poaceae family) was studied in vitro for its antibacterial efficacy against two oxytetracycline (OTC) resistant and one sensitive strains of Aeromonas hydrophila. The oil was found rich (86.93 %) in oxygenated terpenoids containing 74.15 % of citral. The oil exhibited dose dependent growth inhibition of the bacteria. Mean MIC value of the oil against the sensitive strain was recorded as 2.0 mg mL−1 whereas MBC value was recorded as 4.0 mg mL−1. The oil was found effective against the OTC resistant isolates with the MIC and MBC values ranging from 2.67–3.33 and 4.0–6.67 mg mL−1, respectively. In silico molecular docking of the essential oil components against DNA gyrase‐B, a vital macromolecule in bacterial cell, was carried out to computationally asses the efficacy of the oil against the bacteria. Some of the components of the essential oil strongly bonded with the enzyme to inhibit its efficacy. Binding energy of some components of the oil was comparable to that of the conventional antibiotic, OTC. The identified phytochemicals exhibited favorable physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties and satisfied the rule of five (Ro5).
Intracoronary optical coherence tomography—An introduction
Authors: Mohan Nitin Chandra , Johnson Thomas W.
Published: February 2023

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) utilizes near infrared light with a wavelength of 1.30 μm and is generated from a rotating fibre‐optic system. When compared to intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), the shorter wavelength of OCT (1.3 μm) confers excellent axial resolution but at the cost of lower depth penetration (1–2 mm vs. 5–6 mm). Red blood cells have a strong tendency to absorb and scatter light, which attenuates the image. Therefore, when assessing coronary arteries with OCT, it is important to clear blood from the field of examination and this is usually done with a contrast agent. This makes it prone to artefacts from residual blood, and limits its use in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease, ectatic vasculature and aorto‐ostial lesions where IVUS tends to be preferred. However, OCT outperforms IVUS in the assessment of calcific lesions, identification of high‐risk plaque features, and studying the mechanism of stent failure. In this article, we provide an up‐todate review of the technology behind OCT, its limitations, and how the two intracoronary imaging modalities compare in various clinical scenarios.
Photohemilabile PSP‐Rhodium Pincer Catalysts for Dehydrogenative C−H Bond Activation of Arenes
Authors: Toriumi Naoyuki , Lyu Yanzong , Iwasawa Nobuharu
Published: February 2023

Hemilabile ligands have been widely utilized for transition metal catalysis, but hemilability upon excitation, termed as “photohemilability”, is still elusive despite the recent progress of organometallic photocatalysis. In this study, it was discovered that Thioxantphos‐based PSP−Rh pincer complexes undergo dehydrogenative C−H bond activation of arenes under irradiation with visible light. Theoretical calculations indicate that a transient photodissociation of the strong S−Rh bond brought about by d‐d excitation on Rh is the key to realize oxidative addition of arenes to the Rh(I) center, which can be regarded as a photohemilabile behavior. This C−H bond activation process was successfully applied to visible light‐driven C−H borylation of simple arenes.