bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of regional irrigation water requirements and water balance in Xinjiang, China during 1995–2017
Authors: Li Yinbo , Wang Hongwei , Chen Yun , Deng Mingjiang , Li Qian , Wufu Adiliai , Wang Dan , Ma Ligang
Published: January 2020

Estimating water requirements and water balance for irrigated agricultural areas are important and will facilitate the efficient allocation of water resources for agriculture while minimizing the impact on natural ecosystems in arid regions. Based on the Penman-Monteith formula and GIS technology, the irrigation water requirements (IWR) of three main crops (cotton, corn and wheat) during the growing season were estimated and their spatio-temporal changes over the past 23 years (1995–2017) were analyzed in Xinjiang province, China. Our results indicated a dramatic increase in IWR from 14.12 billion m3 in 1995 to 38.99 billion m3 in 2017 due to the rapid cropland expansion of approximately 2.58 × 104 km2 in this period. Monthly IWR usually peaked in summer from May to July and varied in different basins. From the perspective of crops, cotton was identified to have consumed the largest amount of water, reaching 26.39 billion m3 in 2017, accounting for 67.68% of total water consumption. Spatially, the fastest increasing rate of IWR was Tarim Basin, which was attributable to the increase in water requirement of cotton. By comparing IWR and actual irrigation of Xinjiang in 2014, the amount of water scarcity had reached −15.01 billion m3 (−9.80 billion m3 in Tarim Basin and −6.58 billion m3 in Junggar Basin). The planting areas of three main crops (wheat, corn and cotton) were more sensitive to IWR than rising temperature indicated by our model. This study is of great significance for the scientific allocation of water resources in the irrigated areas of the different prefectures of Xinjiang.
Population genetic structure and variability inLindera glauca(Lauraceae) indicates low levels of genetic diversity and skewed sex ratios in natural populations in mainland China
Authors: Xiong Biao , Zhang Limei , Dong Shubin , Zhang Zhixiang
Published: January 2020

Lindera glauca(Lauraceae) is a tree of economic and ecological significance that reproduces sexually and asexually via apomictic seeds. It is widely distributed in the low-altitude montane forests of East Asia. Despite the potential implications of a mixed reproductive system in terms of genetic diversity, few studies have focused on this aspect. In this study, the genetic structure of wild populations ofL. glaucawas investigated via genetic analyses. Overall, 13 nuclear microsatellites (nSSRs) and five chloroplast microsatellites (cpSSRs) were used to genotype 300 individual plants, taken from 20 wild populations (a small sample size in some wild populations is due to the limitation of its specific reproduction, leading to certain limitations in the results of this study) and two cultivated populations ranging across nearly the entire natural distribution of mainland China. The populations exhibited low levels of genetic diversity (nSSR:AR= 1.75,Ho= 0.32,He= 0.36; cpSSR:Nb= 2.01,Hrs= 0.40), and no significant effect of isolation by distance between populations existed, regardless of marker type (nSSR:R2= 0.0401,P= 0.068; cpSSR:R2= 0.033,P= 0.091). Haplotype networks showed complex relationships among populations, and the H12 haplotype was predominant in most populations. Analyses of molecular variance obtained with nuclear markers (Fsc = 0.293,FST= 0.362) and chloroplast markers (Fsc = 0.299,FST= 0.312) were similar. The migration ratio of pollen flow versus seed flow in this study was negative (r= −1.149). Results suggest that weak barriers of dispersal between populations and/or the similarity of founders shared between neighbors and distant populations are indicative of the gene flow between populations more likely involving seeds. WildL. glaucain mainland China was inferred to have highly skewed sex ratios with predominant females. In addition, some populations experienced a recent bottleneck effect, especially in Gujianshan, Chongqing, and southwest China (population GJS). It is suggested that few wild male individuals should be conserved in order to maintain overall genetic diversity in the wild populations of this species. These findings provide important information for the sustainable utilization and preservation of the overall genetic diversity ofL. glauca.
Transcriptional patterns ofCoffea arabicaL. nitrate reductase, glutamine and asparagine synthetase genes are modulated under nitrogen suppression and coffee leaf rust
Authors: Baba Viviane Yumi , Braghini Masako Toma , Santos Tiago Benedito dos , Carvalho Kenia de , Soares João Danillo Moura , Ivamoto-Suzuki Suzana Tiemi , Maluf Mirian P. , Padilha Lilian , Paccola-Meirelles Luzia D. , Pereira Luiz Filipe , Domingues Douglas S.
Published: January 2020

This study evaluated the transcriptional profile of genes related to nitrogen (N) assimilation in coffee plants susceptible and resistant to rust fungi under N sufficiency and N suppression. For this purpose, we inoculated young coffee leaves withHemileia vastatrixuredospores and collected them at 0, 12, 24 and 48 hours post-inoculation (HPI) to evaluate the relative expressions of genes encoding cytosolicglutamine synthetase(CaGS1), plastidglutamine synthetase(CaGS2),nitrate reductase(CaNR), andasparagine synthetase(CaAS). The genes exhibited distinct patterns of transcriptional modulation for the different genotypes and N nutritional regimes. The resistant genotype (I59) presented high levels of transcription in response to pathogen inoculation forCaNRandCaGS1genes, evaluated under N sufficiency in the initial moments of infection (12 HPI). The geneCaGS1also showed a peak at 48 HPI. The susceptible genotype (CV99) showed increased transcript rates ofCaNRat 12 and 24 HPI in response to rust inoculation. The transcriptional patterns observed for CV99, under N suppression, were high levels forCaASandCaGS2at all post-inoculation times in response to coffee leaf rust disease. In addition,CaGS1was up-regulated at 48 HPI for CV99. Cultivar I59 showed high transcript levels at 12 HPI forCaASand peaks at 24 and 48 HPI forCaGS2in inoculated samples. Consequently, total chlorophyl concentration was influenced by N suppression and by rust infection. Regarding enzyme activities in vitro for glutamine synthetase andCaNR, there was an increase in infected coffee leaves (I59) and under N sufficiency. Moreover, CV99 was modulated in both N nutritional regimes for GS activity in response to rust. Our results indicate that N transport genes trigger a differential modulation between genotypes through the action of rust disease.
Obesity in the Balinese is associated with FTO rs9939609 and rs1421085 single nucleotide polymorphisms
Authors: Priliani Lidwina , Oktavianthi Sukma , Hasnita Ria , Nussa Hazrina T. , Inggriani Rut C. , Febinia Clarissa A. , Bowolaksono Anom , Puspitaningrum Rini , Nugroho Rully A. , Suastika Ketut , Malik Safarina G.
Published: January 2020

Obesity prevalence is increasing worldwide, including in the Bali Province, Indonesia, a popular tourism destination area. The common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs9939609 and rs1421085 of the fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene have been repeatedly reported as one of the important obesity genetic risk factors. We have examined the associations of FTO rs9939609 and rs1421085 SNPs with obesity in the 612 unrelated Balinese subjects living in urban and rural areas. Linear and logistic regression analyses with adjustment for age and gender were employed to investigate the association between FTO genotypes, haplotypes and obesity parameters. We found that the FTO SNPs genotypes increased BMI by 1.25 kg/m2 (p = 0.012) for rs9939609 AA and 1.12 kg/m2 (p = 0.022) for rs1421085 CC, particularly in females and in rural population. Subjects carrying these genotypes also showed a tendency to maintain high BMI, regardless of their age. Our result showed that the FTO rs9939609 and rs1421085 risk alleles were associated with increased BMI and obesity in the Balinese.
Osmotrophic glucose and leucine assimilation and its impact on EPA and DHA content in algae
Authors: Peltomaa Elina T. , Taipale Sami
Published: January 2020

The uptake of dissolved organic compounds, that is, osmotrophy, has been shown to be an efficient nutritional strategy for algae. However, this mode of nutrition may affect the biochemical composition, for example, the fatty acid (FA) contents, of algal cells. This study focused on the osmotrophic assimilation of glucose and leucine by selected seven algal strains belonging to chlorophytes, chrysophytes, cryptophytes, dinoflagellates and euglenoids. Our laboratory experiments with stable isotope labeling showed that osmotrophy occurred in four of the selected seven strains. However, only three of these produced long chain omega-3 FAs eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5ω3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6ω3). High glucose content (5 mg L−1) affected negatively on the total FAs ofMallomonas kalinaeand the total omega-3 FAs ofCryptomonassp. Further, glucose assimilation explained 35% (negative effect) and leucine assimilation 48% (positive effect) of the variation of EPA, DHA and the FAs related to their synthesis inCryptomonassp. Moderate glucose concentration (2 mg L−1) was found to enhance the growth ofCryptomonas ozolinii, whereas low leucine (20 µg L−1) enhanced the growth ofM. kalinae. However, no systematic effect of osmotrophy on growth rates was detected. Our study shows that osmotrophic assimilation of algae is species and compound specific, and that the effects of the assimilated compounds on algal metabolism also varies depending on the species.
A transcriptomic study of probenecid on injured spinal cords in mice
Authors: Zhang Yu-Xin , Wang Sai-Nan , Chen Jing , Hu Jian-Guo , Lü He-Zuo
Published: January 2020

Background

Recent studies have found that probenecid has neuroprotective and reparative effects on central nervous system injuries. However, its effect on genome-wide transcription in acute spinal cord injury (SCI) remains unknown. In the present study, RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) is used to analyze the effect of probenecid on the local expression of gene transcription 8 h after spinal injury.

Methods

An Infinite Horizon impactor was used to perform contusive SCI in mice. The SCI model was made by using a rod (1.3 mm diameter) with a force of 50 Kdynes. Sham-operated mice only received a laminectomy without contusive injury. The injured mice were randomly assigned into either the control (SCI_C) or probenecid injection (SCI_P) group. In the latter group, the probenecid drug was intraperitoneally injected (0.5 mg/kg) immediately following injury. Eight hours after the injury or laminectomy, the spinal cords were removed from the mice in both groups. The total RNAs were extracted and purified for library preparation and transcriptome sequencing. Differential gene expressions (DEGs) of the three groups—sham, SCI_C and SCI_P—were analyzed using a DESeq software. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of DEGs were performed using a GOseq R package and KOBAS software. Real-time quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was used to validate RNA-Seq results.

Results

RNA-Seq showed that, compared to the SCI_C group, the number of DEGs was 641 in the SCI_P group (286 upregulated and 355 downregulated). According to GO analysis, DEGs were most enriched in extracellular matrix (ECM), collagen trimer, protein bounding and sequence specific DNA binding. KEGG analysis showed that the most enriched pathways included: cell adhesion molecules, Leukocyte transendothelial migration, ECM-receptor interactions, PI3K-Akt signaling pathways, hematopoietic cell lineages, focal adhesions, the Rap1 signaling pathway, etc. The sequence data have been deposited into the Sequence Read Archive (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sra/PRJNA554464).
Trend Analysis of Vesico-vaginal Fistula among Attendee’s in Fistula Centres in Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Ugochi Onyeugo Glory , Iwuala Chimezie , Nwufo C. R. , Ibe Sally , Udujih Obinna Godwin , Udujih Helen Ifeoma
Published: January 2020

A study on the trend analysis of VVF among attendee’s in fistula centers, Kano State, Nigeria was carried out using ten (10) years hospital records. Results showed three peaks in prevalence in year 2010 (73.8%), 2015 (77.2%) and 2017 (59.3%). The highest peak was in the year 2015 while the lowest prevalence occurred in 2014 (46.0%). Overall, there is a decline in prevalence for the ten years studied. It was observed in this study that most of the patients reside in the rural area of the state, where lack of access to appropriate emergency obstetric care and strong hold to traditional practice is obtained. Therefore, there is need to expand the current strategies employed in the fight against VVF to include initiating a men-targeted programme to enlighten and educate men, especially those living in rural areas on the need to allow their women access to medical care during pregnancy to avoid complications that could result to Vesico-vaginal fistula.
Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Chronic Insomnia Disorder
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Zhao Yanan , Qin Zongshi , Han Ying , He Jiakai , Zhao Bin , Wang Lei , Duan Yuting , Huo Jin , Wang Tuoran , Wang Yu , Rong Peijing
Published: December 2024

IMPORTANCE

Evidence from randomized clinical trials of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) for chronic insomnia disorder is lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of taVNS for chronic insomnia compared with the sham taVNS.

DESIGN, SETTING, and PARTICIPANTS

This randomized clinical trial was conducted from October 2021 to December 2022 at a single center in Beijing, China. Patients with chronic insomnia disorder with a Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) of at least 8 were enrolled. Statistical analysis was performed from June to September 2023.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were allocated to the active taVNS group or sham taVNS group with a 1:1 ratio. Both groups received the stimulation for 30 minutes each time, twice a day, 5 consecutive days a week, with an 8-week treatment and a 12-week follow-up.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary end point was the mean change from baseline through week 8 in PSQI scores. Minimal clinically important difference was 2.5 points. Secondary outcomes included mental health, sleepiness, and fatigue. Safety was also evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 72 participants were randomized to either active taVNS group (36 participants; mean [SD] age, 45.2 [14.5] years; 27 [75.0%] female) or the sham taVNS group (36 participants; mean [SD] age, 44.6 [13.9] years; 31 [86.1%] female); 68 participants completed the 8-week intervention. The least-square mean changes from baseline to week 8 in PSQI were −8.2 (95% CI, −9.3 to −7.0) points in the taVNS group and −3.9 (95% CI, −5.1 to −2.7) points in the sham group. Both groups experienced statistically significant improvements from before to after the intervention. However, active taVNS showed a clinically meaningful 4.2-point greater reduction (95% CI, −5.9 to −2.6 points; P < .001; Cohen d effect size, 1.2) in PSQI compared with the sham group (minimal clinically important difference = 2.5 points). Secondary outcomes, including mental health and fatigue, showed similar favorable results. The efficacy of taVNS was sustained throughout the 20-week study period.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this randomized clinical trial, taVNS significantly reduced insomnia severity. Clinically meaningful enhancements in PSQI scores were observed compared with sham stimulation, with the benefits of taVNS sustained over a 20-week period. Future multicenter clinical trials with large sample sizes are needed to validate its effectiveness across diverse populations.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2100051319
Complex Media
Authors: Yin Wen‐Yan
Published: December 2024

This article reviews and summarizes the research and development work conducted in the area of complex media, with emphasis on (1) model clarifications of anisotropic and bianisotropic media and (2) typical simulation methods. Many application examples are included to address issues in the complex media, where partial solutions are provided as well.
Dipole Antennas and Arrays
Authors: Furse Cynthia M. , Gandhi Om P. , Lazzi Gianluca
Published: December 2024

This chapter describes the dipole antennas including wire, slot, biconical, folded, shunt‐fed, and sleeve dipoles. It also covers common types of arrays built from dipole antennas including log‐periodic, Yagi–Uda, dipole curtains, and crossed dipoles.
Van Atta Array Reflector
Authors: Miao Zhuo‐Wei , Hao Zhang‐Cheng , Wang Xiang , Tian Ling , Wu Yi‐Wen
Published: December 2024

Retrodirective arrays have attracted a lot of research interest due to their unique characteristic of automatically responding to an interrogator without any prior information on the source location. As a unique member in the family of retrodirective arrays, the Van Atta array reflectors have features of simple structure and low cost and hold great potential for use in military and commercial applications, such as mobile communication, vehicle radar, radio‐frequency identification (RFID), and wireless power transfer (WPT). The Van Atta arrays are composed of an even number of radiation elements connected by transmission lines with equal electrical lengths. This article provides a detailed overview of the most recent research on the Van Atta array reflectors. Firstly, the development of the Van Atta arrays is briefly reviewed, and the basic design ideas are introduced. Then, the detailed operation principle of the Van Atta arrays is described, together with the theoretical analysis and experimental measurement to obtain the scattering field patterns in both monostatic and bistatic cases. After that, the latest research progress including the designs of one‐ and two‐dimensional Van Atta arrays is discussed. Besides the passive reflectors, the active Van Atta arrays can be implemented by introducing amplifiers or modulation circuits. In addition, this article also presents a short review of some typical applications of the Van Atta arrays, including the fields of vehicle‐mounting reflectors associated with the intelligent transportation systems (ITSs), the wireless charging of electronic devices, and ultralong‐range chipless sensing. Some examples of transponders using the Van Atta structures for these applications are introduced. Finally, some challenges and future research directions for Van Atta reflectors are presented.
SQUIDs
Authors: Fagaly Robert L.
Published: December 2024

SQUID instruments consist of a SQUID amplifier or sensor and a detection circuit that transforms the signal of interest into a magnetic flux that is detected by the SQUID sensor. Associated control electronics transform this signal into a room temperature voltage that is available for additional signal processing if needed. The SQUID amplifier and the detection coils are superconducting devices. Thus, some type of refrigerant (e.g., liquid helium or nitrogen) or refrigeration device is needed to maintain the SQUID (and the detection coil) in the superconducting state. Additional signal‐conditioning electronics may be needed to improve the signal‐to‐noise ratio. SQUID instrumentation has been a key factor in the development and commercialization of ultrasensitive electric and magnetic measurement systems. In many cases, SQUID instrumentation offers the ability to make measurements where no other methodology is possible.
Filter Theory
Authors: Görür Ali K. , Karpuz Ceyhun , Görür Adnan
Published: December 2024

The main categories of filters are defined in terms of the general response types of lowpass, bandpass, highpass, and bandstop. The basic concepts of filters including transfer function, insertion loss, return loss, phase delay, and group delay are described. Filter characteristics such as maximally flat or Butterworth, equally ripple or Chebyshev, elliptic function, generalized Chebyshev or pseudoelliptic, and maximally flat time delay are discussed in terms of the poles of transfer function. In this article, the filter design is based on the insertion loss theory. Two‐port lumped‐element lowpass prototype networks, their element values, and filter transformations are presented. Richards' and Kuroda's transformations (or identities), impedance and admittance inverters are also investigated, which are required for transforming lumped elements to distributed sections, for separating physically filter elements and changing impractical elements into more realizable elements in a filter network. Some examples are presented to demonstrate Richards' and Kuroda's transformations and a filter design.
Frequency‐Domain Circuit Analysis
Authors: Biey Mario , Maio Ivan A.
Published: December 2024

In this article, the frequency‐domain analysis of Linear Time‐Invariant (LTI) circuits is reviewed. The key point of any frequency‐domain analysis method is the substitution of the LTI circuit under analysis with an equivalent circuit for the transformed voltage and current variables. The equivalent circuit, which is named transformed circuit, has branch relations defined by linear algebraic equations and all the properties of linear resistive circuits. The frequency‐domain analysis, therefore, amounts to solving the transformed circuit by the methods for linear resistive circuits and computing the time‐domain responses by inverse transformation of the transformed circuit responses. In this article, this procedure is introduced and discussed by means of the one‐sided Laplace transform that is the most versatile among all possible transforms. The circuit equations in the frequency domain are used to define the network functions, to derive their properties and the properties of the time‐domain responses of LTI circuits, as the stability and the steady‐state response to sinusoidal signals. Complete analysis examples are given. The review of the frequency‐domain analysis is then completed by introducing the two‐sided Laplace transform and the Fourier transform, their relations to the one‐sided Laplace transform, their peculiarities, and some applications.
Intermodulation
Authors: Pedro José C.
Published: December 2024

This article presents a broad overview of intermodulation distortion (IMD) in microwave and RF circuits and systems. It starts by putting IMD in the context of the linear and nonlinear perturbations of telecommunication systems to then explain its physical origins and most common theoretical analysis methods and laboratory characterization setups. For that, several device/system models and analytical and numerical techniques are addressed as well as the nonlinear distortion generation mechanisms present in typical microwave small‐signal amplifiers, high‐power amplifiers, and frequency converters are reviewed.
Military Communications
Authors: Nguyen Tien M. , Wang Charles C. , Goo Gary W.
Published: December 2024

In general, military communication systems are different from ordinary systems in various specific security requirements, namely, robustness in hostile environments, shielding from adversaries, and immunity from unfriendly eavesdropping. Hostile environments to communications are radiofrequency interference (RFI), spoofing, jamming, and fading, either natural or human made. In recent years, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) has been extensively utilized for remote sensing.
Wireless Communication Systems
Authors: Armada Ana G. , Jiménez Víctor P. Gil , Céspedes Máximo Morales , Hu Kun Chen
Published: December 2024

This chapter introduces wireless communications systems and explains the different products and standards related to wireless communications. The chapter is divided into five main sections.

A brief introduction offers a perspective on the evolution of wireless communications systems and introduces a useful classification. After this introduction, an explanation of basic concepts and fundamentals of the different wireless products, followed by a presentation of the related technology the related technology.

The introduction and the basic concepts showed make it easy to understand the presentation of the most important wireless products and related standards are detailed: cellular, cordless, trunking, paging, wireless local‐area network (WLAN), wireless metropolitan‐area network (WMAN), and wireless personal‐area network (WPAN) systems.

Finally, a brief vision of the future evolution of wireless is disclosed, introducing advanced technologies and applications such as massive multiple input–multiple output (MIMO), light‐fidelity (LiFi), drones, and Internet of Things (IoT), and of actual research toward the next generation of mobile communications.
Synergistic antibacterial activity of baicalin in combination with oxacillin sodium against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Meng Xin , Kang Mengna , Yu Zhiyun , Li Changyou , Chen Yang , Jin Taicheng , Wang Kai , Guo Haiyong
Published: December 2024

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a challenge for clinical treatment and combining antibiotics with other agents might be a promising strategy to overcome this challenge. This study explored the synergistic antibacterial activity of baicalin (traditional Chinese medicine extract) and the narrow‐spectrum beta‐lactam antibiotic oxacillin sodium, both of which are poorly active against MRSA in vitro. The combination of baicalin and oxacillin sodium showed a synergistic effect with a fractional inhibitory concentration index of 0.5. Mechanistically, the supplementation of baicalin increased the permeability of bacterial cell walls and cell membranes, enhancing oxacillin sodium entry and bactericidal action. The combination of baicalin and oxacillin sodium also significantly inhibited MRSA USA300 biofilm formation by further reducing polysaccharide intercellular adhesion production. Therefore, the combination of baicalin and oxacillin sodium offers a new therapeutic option for addressing clinical MRSA resistance. Further studies, including clinical trials, will be required to validate the observed in vitro results.
Carbazole Analog Doping‐Induced Bright Red and Near‐Infrared Organic Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence with Long Lifetime
Authors: Zhang Xianhe , Xie Zongliang , Liu Bin
Published: December 2024

Materials with room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) from deep red to near‐infrared (NIR) region exhibit great potential for emerging applications. However, such molecules typically require a low‐lying first triplet (T1) excited state, which may not be optimal for exciton stabilization, potentially compromising the phosphorescence lifetime. This study reports the design of four 9H‐carbazole (Cz) analogs with extended conjugation lengths used as dopants to achieve RTP emissions in deep red and NIR regions with lifetimes exceeding 700 ms. These findings reveal that substituting reactive hydrogen atoms in Cz analogs with methyl groups significantly enhances the photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of these materials compared to their non‐methylated counterparts. Additionally, these doping systems can be activated by visible light, achieving persistent phosphorescence even under the excitation of 450 nm light. Theoretical calculations demonstrate the crucial roles of charge transfer state and the enhanced spin‐orbital coupling (SOC) matrix elements upon doping for achieving long‐lifetime phosphorescence beyond 600 nm. This research presents a strategy employing Cz‐based doping systems to facilitate RTP emissions extending from visible to deep red and NIR regions.
Enhancing Stability: Two‐Dimensional Thermochromic Perovskite for Smart Windows in Building Applications
Authors: He Huanfeng , Liu Sai , Du Yuwei , Zhang Rui , Ho Tsz Chung , Tso Chi Yan
Published: December 2024

Recently, there is rapid development of thermochromic metal halide perovskite (MHPs) for smart window applications due to their competitive optical performance and cost‐effective synthesis. However, existing MHP smart windows predominantly feature 3D perovskite, which exhibits a deficiency in environmental stability, presenting persistent challenges for practical applications. This study introduces a novel and more durable 2D thermochromic perovskite, Tha2MAPbI4 (TMPI, Tha = thiourea, MA = methylamine), wherein Tha acts as a Lewis acid‐base adduct. TMPI demonstrates a reversible transition, achieving 83.7% luminous transmittance in the cold state and 35.2% in the hot state, thereby showcasing a substantial solar modulation ability of 24.7%. Further analysis of the crystal structure reveals that the thermochromic behavior of TMPI arises from a phase transition between 0D perovskite and 2D perovskite, induced by a dehydration‐hydration process. Notably, TMPI maintains thermochromic properties even after direct exposure to 75% relative humidity and 25 °C air for up to 28 days, a stark contrast to traditional 3D perovskites that lose their thermochromic capabilities within a few days under similar conditions. This research unveils TMPI as a thermochromic 2D perovskite that marks a significant advancement in environmental stability, indicating promising prospects for thermochromic smart windows.
Janus Spherical Robot With Multiple Wettabilities for Droplet/ Bubble Manipulation
Authors: Zhao Zihao , He Shiping , Yu Anhui , Wang Shaochen , Zhang Huayang , Guo Zhiguang
Published: December 2024

The flexible manipulation and directional transport of fluids, including droplets and bubbles, are foundational to numerous applications. Fluid manipulation based on external field stimulation and fixed structures has a wide range of applications in both natural and artificial materials, such as water collection, water electrolysis, droplet energy collection, medical diagnosis, etc. However, droplets and bubbles exhibit opposite wettability, and the inherent opposition between hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity presents a significant challenge in developing a manipulation system capable of manipulating both droplets and bubbles. Here, inspired by multiple natural organisms, a magnetic‐actuated Janus spherical robot with switchable wettability as the driving core of droplets or bubbles, and a solid‐like slippery surface as the manipulation platform is proposed, which achieves the dual programmable manipulation of droplets and bubbles. Furthermore, the Janus robot can achieve the transition from superhydrophobic to superhydrophilic within 8 min under UV light. It is noteworthy that the Janus robot demonstrates superior capabilities in the transport speed and carrier volume of liquid droplets (bubbles), which can reach 18 (13) cm s−1 and 800 (500) µL, respectively. This strategy provides a novel and reliable method for the automated manipulation of droplets and bubbles and broadens their applications.
Reprogrammable Supramolecular Fluorescent Polymers for Rewritable Information Encryption and Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Tian Yong , Huang Baoyu , He Shun , Zhao Yi , Zang Kairong , Wang Hong , Zhao Xiaomei , Cui Jiaxi , Chen Jian
Published: December 2024

The development of rewritable information encryption technology with high security is essential to meet the increasing confidentiality needs, however, it remains challenging. Hence, a strategy using self‐growth technology and host–guest interaction to construct reprogrammable photoswitchable supramolecular fluorescent polymers (PSFP) is developed, enabling rewritable information encryption. In this strategy, the polymerizable adamantane (AD) is integrated into polymer materials by employing the self‐growth method to create the desired 3D structure on the surface of the matrix. The fluorescent dyes modified by β‐cyclodextrin (CDPA and CDNA) and photochromic spiropyran‐linked β‐cyclodextrin (CDSP) are incorporated into the growing structure through host–guest interactions between AD unit and β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) moieties. Based on the photo‐induced fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) process, PSFP can undergo reversible dual‐state fluorescence switching between blue/green and red. Interestingly, owing to the dynamic features of host–guest interactions, the fluorescent information can be erased and rewritten easily. These outstanding performances promote to apply PSFP to rewritable information encryption and anti‐counterfeiting labels. Overall, this strategy opens up new prospects for smart photoswitchable fluorescent materials.
Vanadium Oxide Clusters Mediated Bismuth‐Tin Alloy for Accelerated Dynamics of Electrocatalytic CO2 Conversion
Authors: Zhu Jiaye , Zhou Guorong , Tong Yun , Chen Lu , Chen Pengzuo
Published: December 2024

The electrocatalytic conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) to formate is significant for carbon neutrality. How to improve the reaction kinetics of electrocatalysts is one of the important challenges. An innovative electrodeposition strategy is presented herein to rationally synthesize the vanadium oxide (VOx) clusters decorated Bi‐Sn alloy (BiSn(VOx)) catalyst. Theoretical and in situ spectral studies confirm the simultaneously improved kinetics of CO2 activation and subsequent protonation via VOx clusters mediated water dissociation process, thereby optimizing the electrocatalytic activity and selectivity of CO2 to formate. Remarkably, this BiSn(VOx) catalyst achieves high Faradic efficiency (FE) of formate over 90% within wide potential window of 800 mV and excellent stability over 100 h at −0.6 V versus RHE. Moreover, the BiSn(VOx) cathode integrated rechargeable Zn‐CO2 battery realizes the largest power density of 3.8 mW cm−2, while the assembled co‐electrolysis electrolyzer delivers a total FE of formate over 182% at a cell voltage of 0.6 V, outperforming the highest value so far. The work provides a promising way to develop advanced electrocatalysts for electrolysis.
Reducing the Exciton Binding Energy of Covalent Organic Framework Through π‐Bridges to Enhance Photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Xing , Zhang Cheng‐Rong , Bi Rui‐Xiang , Peng Zhi‐Hai , Song An‐Min , Zhang Rui , He Hao‐Xuan , Qi Jia‐Xin , Gong Jing‐Wen , Niu Cheng‐Peng , Liang Ru‐Ping , Qiu Jian‐Ding
Published: December 2024

The pronounced exciton binding energy (Eb) in covalent organic frameworks (COFs) results in significant energy loss, thereby constraining the photocatalytic efficiency of COFs. Herein, triphenylamine is employed as an electron donor, while triphenyltriazine served as an acceptor; benzene, naphthalene, and anthracene are utilized as π‐bridges with progressively increasing conjugation to synthesize a series of D‐π‐A structured COFs photocatalysts (COF‐1, COF‐2, and COF‐3). The correlation between π‐bridge structures and Eb is systematically examined through the removal of hexavalent uranium U(VI) from tailings wastewater under visible light irradiation as a model reaction. Notably, an increase in π‐bridge conjugation initially enhanced and then diminished the photocatalytic properties of these three catalysts. This phenomenon can be attributed to the fact that coplanarity within the COFs frameworks does not consistently improve with greater π‐bridge conjugations; specifically, COF‐2 featuring a naphthalene π‐bridge exhibited the smallest dihedral angle. The reduced dihedral angle facilitated a more planar and delocalized electron transport pathway between donor and acceptor moieties, leading to decreased Eb and inhibited exciton recombination. Consequently, COF‐2 demonstrated exceptional photocatalytic reduction of U(VI), achieving efficiencies 1.8 times and 1.5 times greater than those of COF‐1 and COF‐3, respectively. This approach offers novel insights into mitigating Eb in COFs‐based photocatalysts.
Metal Halide Perovskite LEDs for Visible Light Communication and Lasing Applications
Authors: Chen Desui , Zou Guangruixing , Wu Ye , Tang Bing , Rogach Andrey L. , Yip Hin‐Lap
Published: December 2024

Metal halide perovskites, known for their pure and tunable light emission, near‐unity photoluminescence quantum yields, favorable charge transport properties, and excellent solution processability, have emerged as promising materials for large‐area, high‐performance light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). Over the past decade, significant advancements have been made in enhancing the efficiency, response speed, and operational stability of perovskite LEDs. These promising developments pave the way for a broad spectrum of applications extending beyond traditional solid‐state lighting and displays to include visible light communication (VLC) and lasing applications. This perspective evaluates the current state of perovskite LEDs in those emerging areas, addresses the primary challenges currently impeding the development of perovskite‐based VLC systems and laser diodes, and provides an optimistic outlook on the future realization of perovskite‐based VLC and electrically pumped perovskite lasers.
Recent Advances and Future Prospects for Construction Strategies of Flexible Electromagnetic Protection Patches
Authors: Gong De , Chen Teng , Cui Shuoming , Zhang Deyuan , Cai Jun
Published: December 2024

With the rapid development of morphing aircraft, increasing demands are put forward for flexible patches (FP). In addition to sufficient deformation capability and mechanical strength, FP are required for electromagnetic continuity especially at active gaps of morphing aircraft. The existing FP are developed with enhanced deformability and load‐bearing capacity, yet their limits in electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding cannot meet practical applications of electromagnetic protection, and their interlayer bonding also needs to be strengthened. Besides, flexible electromagnetic protection materials (FEMPM) have been developed to address electromagnetic radiation in wearable electronics and other fields, yet their deformability and mechanical properties still need to be improved. Thereon, based on reasonable structure design and fabrication methods, delicate integration of FP and FEMPM can offer a significant paradigm to construct flexible electromagnetic protection patches (FEMPP) with great potentials in engineering applications. Herein, recent advances in FP as well as FEMPM are consolidated, and detailed development in multifunctional construction of FEMPP are involved. Furthermore, challenges and developing perspectives are also discussed, aiming to inspire the relevant researches and promote development in the related fields.
High‐Detectivity GeSn Mid‐Infrared Photodetectors for Sensitive Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Chou Meng‐Hsien , Bansal Radhika , Jheng Yue‐Tong , Sun Greg , Du Wei , Yu Shui‐Qing , Chang Guo‐En
Published: December 2024

Infrared (IR) spectroscopy is a powerful, nondestructive analytical technique that requires cost‐effective and highly sensitive IR photodetectors (PDs). Herein, complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS)‐compatible GeSn p–i–n PDs with record‐high detectivity (D*) are presented, offering a broad photodetection range that spans the mid‐IR region. With 10% Sn incorporation, the photodetection range extends to 2680 nm. By introducing a composition‐graded GeSn buffer to enhance the material quality and increasing the thickness of the GeSn active layer to 1490 nm, optical responsivity and dark current are significantly improved, thereby achieving record‐high D* values of and at T = 300 K and T = 77 K, respectively. Leveraging these record‐high D* levels, the capability of GeSn PDs in IR spectroscopy is demonstrated, which can resolve weak photoluminescence from Ge, confirming their effectiveness for sensitive IR detection.
Continuous preparation of alkaline hydrogen peroxide solution by micromixing device: Experiment and theoretical analysis
Authors: Xia Shunkai , Yu Xude , Chen Zhuo , Xu Jianhong
Published: December 2024

In the context of achieving continuous synthesis of acyl peroxides using microreactors, continuous preparation of alkaline hydrogen peroxide (AHP) solution is required. However, two key issues, Na2O2 precipitation and H2O2 decomposition, need to be considered or addressed. For the precipitation of Na2O2 during NaOH and H2O2 mixing, experiments revealed that precipitation could be avoided by appropriate selection of operation window. For the risk of violent H2O2 decomposition when NaOH and H2O2 solutions are one‐step mixed, theoretical approaches were adopted. Simulation‐derived mixing time is combined with decomposition kinetics to find a direct relationship between operation‐structure parameters and percentage of decomposed H2O2. This percentage is estimated to be in the order of 10−4 for micromixing devices, which indicates that micromixing devices can be used to one‐step mix NaOH and H2O2 solution without causing violent H2O2 decomposition. This work provides insights into the preparation of AHP solution and facilitates its continuous preparation.
Did court dismiss student's free speech claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: December 2024

A doctorate student enrolled at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center's College of Pharmacy with aspirations of becoming a pharmacist. The student managed social media accounts under the alias “KimmyKasi,” where she shared posts about music lyrics, fashion, and sexuality. She claimed that none of her posts identified her as a student at the College of Pharmacy or suggested any link to the university. Nevertheless, her social media presence soon became the subject of a university investigation.
FPGA‐Based Resource‐Optimal Approximate Multiplier for Error‐Resilient Applications
Authors: Khurshid Burhan
Published: December 2024

Arithmetic units inspired by approximate computations have seen a significant development in error‐resilient applications, wherein accuracy can be traded off for enhanced performance. Most of the existing literature pertaining to approximate computations targets ASIC platforms. In this paper, we focus on exploiting the features of approximate computation to design efficient digital hardware for FPGA platforms. Specifically, we propose an FPGA implementation of an approximate multiplier unit based on the CORDIC algorithm. Contemporary FPGA‐based approximate multiplier implementations report a lot of compromise in accuracy and a relatively higher implementation cost in terms of utilized resources, timing, and energy. We conduct a detailed Pareto analysis to determine the number of optimal computing stages for the proposed CORDIC‐based approximate multiplier that justifies the accuracy‐performance trade‐offs. More importantly, we focus on the optimal logic distribution of the proposed multiplier circuit by restructuring the top‐level Boolean network and translating it into a circuit netlist that can be efficiently mapped onto the inherent FPGA fabric of LUTs and Carry4 primitives. Our CORDIC‐based implementations significantly improve the accuracy metrics while maintaining a suitable performance trade‐off. The efficacy of our proposed multiplier is tested using two image‐processing applications, namely, image blending and image smoothening. The obtained results show a substantial improvement over the existing state‐of‐the‐art approximate multipliers.
Lifitegrast, a Lymphocyte Function‐Associated Antigen‐1 Antagonist Demonstrates Beneficial Effect in Psoriasis
Authors: Gawande Rahul Sudhakar , Rao Thakkalapally Lakshmi , Pethe Anil M.
Published: December 2024

Lifitegrast is a lymphocyte function‐associated antigen‐1 (LFA‐1) antagonist, which is approved for treatment of dry eye disease. In this work we explored the effect of lifitegrast in imiquimod induced psoriasis model in mice. Lifitegrast (5% solution) was tested in imiquimod‐induced psoriasis model in C57 mice. Lifitegrast was topically administered twice a day to the psoriatic skin for 6 days and epidermal skin thickness, psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score and inflammation markers were assessed. Lifitegrast inhibited the imiquimod‐induced increase in the epidermal thickness, histopathological changes and PASI score. This decrease in psoriasis inflammation was accompanied by decrease in TNF‐α, IL‐6, IL‐22 and IL‐17/IL‐23 axis gene expression in the skin, and the effect is comparable to the oral cyclosporine A(5 mg/kg, twice a day) treatment. Lifitegrast demonstrated significant anti‐inflammatory activity, mainly through reduction in cytokine gene expression related to psoriasis and decreased the severity of psoriasis in vivo. The significant effect shown by this LFA‐1 and ICAM‐1 antagonist indicates a novel topical treatment for psoriasis.
Fundamental understanding of texturing electrodeposition metal zinc anodes for practical aqueous Zn‐ion batteries
Authors: Sun Qiangchao , Liu Xijun , Chang Linhui , Lin Min , Lu Xionggang , Cheng Hongwei
Published: December 2024

One of the most promising electrochemical energy storage technologies, aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs), is garnering increasing attention due to their inherent safety, high sustainability, and low cost. However, the challenges posed by dendrite formation and side reactions resulting from uneven deposition of zinc metal anodes significantly impede the reversibility and cycling stability of AZIBs. Given the influence of crystallographic anisotropy on the diversity of deposited metal morphology and crystal orientation, a thorough understanding of the intrinsic texture of zinc is crucial in achieving a dendrite‐free zinc anode. This review highlights groundbreaking efforts and significant advancements in promoting the orientational electrodeposition of zinc, encompassing fundamental crystallographic and electrocrystallization theories as well as approaches for achieving textured zinc electrodeposition. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the crystallography, electrochemistry, and induction mechanisms involved in controlling sustainable zinc orientational electrodeposition for AZIBs. Lastly, four critical research aspects are proposed to facilitate the commercialization of reliable AZIBs.
Transendocardial injection of expanded autologous CD34+ cells after myocardial infarction: Design of the EXCELLENT trial
Authors: Roncalli Jerome , Roubille François , Meyer Nicolas , Pompilio Giulio , Leroux Lionel , Henon Philippe , Trebuchet Guillaume , Criquet Anthony , de Kalbermatten Matthieu , Saloux Eric , Manrique Alain , Marie Pierre‐Yves , Bhatt Deepak L. , Solomon Scott D. , Montalescot Gilles , Newby David E. , Zannad Faiez ,   the EXCELLENT Trial Investigators
Published: December 2024

Aims

The extent of irreversible cardiomyocyte necrosis after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a major determinant of residual left ventricular (LV) function and clinical outcome. Cell therapy based on CD34+ cells has emerged as an option to help repair the myocardium and to improve outcomes. The dose of CD34+ cells and the route of administration are two important factors that will determine the clinical effectiveness of the approach, provided it is robust and feasible. Here, we describe the rationale and design of the multicentre open‐label randomized controlled phase I/IIb trial evaluating the safety and the likelihood of efficacy of transendocardial expanded CD34+ cell administration in patients presenting with AMI and a reduced LV ejection fraction.

Methods

Patients with a large AMI and LV ejection fraction <50% are randomized 3:1 to transendocardial expanded CD34+ cell injection plus standard of care or standard of care alone. Patients randomized to intervention are treated with lenograstim for 5 days before 220 ± 10 mL blood cell harvest from which autologous CD34+ cells are purified and expanded for 9 days using an automated good manufacturing practice compliant platform. The primary endpoint is the incidence of major adverse cardiac events over 6 months. The main secondary endpoints are LV end systolic volume index and the viability of the infarcted segments.

Conclusions

Autologous CD34+ cell therapy is currently limited by technological constraints. This is the first trial to evaluate the feasibility and potential effect of CD34+ cells after automated expansion and transendocardial administration in patients with large AMI.