bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
POLÍTICA EDUCACIONAL E DILEMAS DO ENSINO EM TEMPOS DE CRISE
Authors: Souza Filho Luiz Alberto De , Rezende Filho Luiz Augusto Coimbra de
Published: November 2023

Este texto é uma resenha do livro “Políticas Educacionais e Dilemas do Ensino em Tempos de Crise: Juventude, currículo, reformas do ensino e formação de professores”, publicado em 2018 pela editora Livraria da Física e organizado por Lucia Ap. Valadares Sartório, Lucilia Augusta Lino e Nádia Maria Pereira de Souza, professoras da Faculdade de Educação da UFRRJ, UERJ e UFRRJ, respectivamente. Os textos contidos no livro questionam e investigam os princípios e as consequências das reformas do Ensino para as futuras gerações, para o currículo e para a formação de professores.
SOCIOLOGIA DA EDUCAÇÃO EM MOVIMENTO
Authors: Turnes Luiza , Borges Barcella Julia Larissa , Novicki Lurdete Castelan
Published: November 2023

Dividida em três partes, a obra Sociologia da Educação em Movimento, publicada em 2022, apresenta uma nova e instigante proposta: ouvir sociólogos contemporâneos a partir de questões previamente elaboradas que versam sobre a sociologia, em especial a sociologia da educação, e o papel do sociólogo na contemporaneidade. Oito questões respondidas por quatro diferentes e renomados sociólogos franceses - François Dubet, David Le Breton, Martine Plard-Derivry e Éric Plaisance – dão corpo a primeira parte do livro. A obra ainda conta com um inventário autobiográfico de Gabriel Langouët e, em seu último capítulo, somos brindados com uma entrevista inédita com Jean-Claude Passeron, realizada por Tiago R. dos Santos, um dos organizadores. As respostas dos sociólogos franceses às oito questões, o inventário de Langoüet e a entrevista com Passeron, certamente contribuem para as reflexões de muitos pesquisadores da área das humanidades na atualidade.
Analysis of the Influence Mechanism of Host Country's Intellectual Property Protection and China's High-Tech Industry Export
Authors: Li Yang , Zhang Tao
Published: November 2023

Aims: From the perspective of intellectual property protection in the host country, combined with the characteristics of China’s high-tech industry, this paper explores the influence mechanism of institutional environment, tariff barriers and technological innovation on the export of China’s high-tech industry.

Study Design: Using the qualitative research method, this paper first sorts out and comments on the relevant literature on intellectual property protection and high-tech industry exports, and then discusses the impact mechanism of intellectual property protection in the host country, laying a theoretical foundation for the final recommendations to Chinese government and enterprises.

Place and Duration of Study: Business School of Jiangsu Ocean University, June to October 2023.

Methodology: Based on the trade effect of intellectual property protection, this paper discusses the classification of country effect and industry effect, and analyzes the influence channel and influencing factors of intellectual property protection on high-tech industry. Finally, the influence mechanism of host country’s intellectual property protection on China’s high-tech industry export is explored.

Results: The influence mechanism of this paper can be applied to the influence of host country’s intellectual property protection on the export of high-tech industry, which contributes valuable policy suggestions to the development of China’s high-tech industry.

Conclusion: The host country’s intellectual property protection can have an impact on China’s high-tech industry exports through the intermediary factors of institutional environment, tariff barriers and technological innovation. Among them, the institutional environment has an impact from the sunk cost effect, theoretical expectation effect and forced mechanism, tariff barriers have an impact from the incentive effect, purification effect and transfer effect, and technological innovation has an impact from various factors such as cost, quality and labor productivity.
The Use of Survival Analysis Modelling with Incomplete Data with Application to Breast Cancer
Authors: Raza Mahdi Saber , Broom Mark
Published: November 2023

There are strong survival analysis methodologies for data sets which are complete, with accurate information on censoring. But what if they are not complete? In an earlier paper we built a methodology for estimating survival probabilities and hazard functions in a health setting, using breast cancer data from the Kurdistan region of Iraq, for censored and uncensored data when a substantial portion of individuals are lost to the study. In this paper we build on these models to consider further issues based upon the accuracy of the records of patient death, where deaths often occur beyond the hospital in family settings and patients ceasing treatment and contact with the hospital may or may not represent their death; thus the record of their time of death may not be accurate. We develop a new Markov chain-based methodology for generating survival curves and hazard functions, and demonstrate this using a different breast cancer dataset from the Kurdistan region of Iraq.
Physicochemical Parameters Monitoring During Bioremediation of Soils Polluted by Hydrocarbons in Brazzaville (Congo)
Authors: Okeni-Boba Gabriel Judicael , Mbemba Kiele Molingo , Ouamba Jean Maurille
Published: November 2023

This work aimed to treat soils polluted by hydrocarbons using the bioremediation technique. Soils samples were taken from four (04) garages chosen in some districts of Brazzaville, namely Ouenzé, Mfilou, Djiri and Talangai. Four treatments were carried out for bioremediation treatment while monitoring physicochemical parameters by bioaugmentation, biostimulation and mixture of bioaugmentation and biostimulation. Several physicochemical parameters were monitored during the different treatments: The ranges of physicochemical parameters values are respectively between 23.3 and 28.4°C for temperature, between 38,6 and 5266,01µS/cm for conductivity, between 6.01 and 7,5 for pH,  between 0 and 70% for the maximum water retention capacity, between 1 and 10% for humidity, between 0 and 88 mg/Kg for nitrogen and between 0 and 298.93 mg/Kg for potassium. The Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH) concentrations in polluted soils decreased significantly throughout the treatments with a drop between 25% and 85%. The greatest drop (75%-85%) in hydrocarbon concentrations is observed for Bioaugmentation (Bacteria) and Biostimulation+Bioaugmentation (NPK+Bacteria) combination treatments. Thus, bioremediation by adding Bacillus genus bacteria would be an alternative way for the depollution of soils polluted by hydrocarbons.
A Review of Organic Farming for Sustainable Agriculture in India
Authors: Tiwari Nimisha , Roy Tirtharaj , Chouhan Monika , Anju  , Muniya Anil , Nandeha Nirjharnee
Published: November 2023

Producing enough food to feed the nation's expanding population has been India's biggest post-independence concern. Therefore, high-yielding cultivars are utilised in conjunction with irrigation water, fertilisers, or pesticides. All agricultural methods that uphold production in a way that is environmentally, socially, and economically sound are united by organic farming. Organic farming combines the following practises to ensure sustainable agriculture: crop rotation; soil-protecting technologies for planned chemical land reclamation; agro-technical methods to protect crops from weeds; preservation of agricultural and biological diversity at farms and its efficient utilisation; stabilisation of agro-landscapes through uniform system of field-protecting forest belts; facilitation of proper use and preservation of water resources; utilisation of renewable resources; harmonious balance between crop and animal production through integrated farming and utilisation of indigenous technical knowledge. Therefore, high-yielding cultivars are utilised in conjunction with irrigation water, fertilisers, or pesticides. This mix of high-yielding production technologies has contributed to soil health, environmental pollution, pesticide toxicity, and sustainable agricultural output, while also helping the nation create a food surplus. All types of certified organic food goods, such as cereals, fruits, oilseeds, honey, tea, spices, coffee, pulses, basmati rice, and their value-added products, are made in India. Cotton, clothing, makeup, functional foods, body care items, and other items of a similar nature are examples of non-edible organic products. India's sustainable agriculture is examined in relation to the production of various organic products and crops. In addition to improving the physical, chemical, and biological qualities of the soil, organic farming gives plants access to macro- and micronutrients.
Efficacy of Digital Finance on Financial Inclusion: Evidence from the Nigerian Banking Industry
Authors: Enebeli-Uzor Sunday , Mukhtar Adam
Published: November 2023

Globally, the number of adult population who do not have access to financial services continues to pose a challenge to economic development. The problem of financial exclusion is more acute in developing countries where more than half the adult population is unbanked. In 2021, 55 percent of the population of adults in Nigeria were unbanked, which created gaps in financial access for typically excluded and underserved adults, especially the vulnerable groups – the women, the poor, the less educated, the rural dwellers, the young, and those outside the labour force. The motivation for this study arose from a concern of how to use digital finance to bring those who are unbanked and financially excluded into the formal financial system. The study employed the quantitative research method using an ex-post facto research design. Annual time series data spanning from 2004 to 2020 was analysed using the ARDL estimator. The results reveal that commercial bank branches and internet access are the strongest drivers of financial inclusion in Nigeria in the short run. On the contrary, digital credit to the private sector and a period lag in interest rate hinder financial inclusion. In the long run, commercial bank branches, internet access, and exchange rates significantly affect financial inclusion. Conversely, digital credit to the private sector and lending rate are the critical factors contributing to financial exclusion. Based on the findings, the study suggests the need for a holistic financial framework that aims at incorporating the informal financial market into the mainstream financial system with the capacity to integrate majority of the financially excluded Nigerian adults. Such a robust framework should be digitally sensitive, politically neutral, financially inclusive, economically viable and spatially distributed for sustainability purposes.
A novel pipeline for prioritizing cancer type‐specific therapeutic vulnerabilities using DepMap identifies PAK2 as a target in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Sannigrahi Malay K. , Cao Austin C. , Rajagopalan Pavithra , Sun Lova , Brody Robert M. , Raghav Lovely , Gimotty Phyllis A. , Basu Devraj
Published: November 2023

There is limited guidance on exploiting the genome‐wide loss‐of‐function CRISPR screens in cancer Dependency Map (DepMap) to identify new targets for individual cancer types. This study integrated multiple tools to filter these data in order to seek new therapeutic targets specific to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The resulting pipeline prioritized 143 targetable dependencies that represented both well‐studied targets and emerging target classes like mitochondrial carriers and RNA‐binding proteins. In total, 14 targets had clinical inhibitors used for other cancers or nonmalignant diseases that hold near‐term potential to repurpose for HNSCC therapy. Comparing inhibitor response data that were publicly available for 13 prioritized targets between the cell lines with high vs. low dependency on each target uncovered novel therapeutic potential for the PAK2 serine/threonine kinase. PAK2 gene dependency was found to be associated with wild‐type p53, low PAK2 mRNA, and diploid status of the 3q amplicon containing PAK2. These findings establish a generalizable pipeline to prioritize clinically relevant targets for individual cancer types using DepMap. Its application to HNSCC highlights novel relevance for PAK2 inhibition and identifies biomarkers of PAK2 inhibitor response.
A Complete Strategy to Achieve High Precision Automatic Segmentation of Challenging Experimental X‐Ray Computed Tomography Data Using Low‐Resemblance Synthetic Training Data
Authors: Tsamos Athanasios , Evsevleev Sergei , Fioresi Rita , Faglioni Francesco , Bruno Giovanni
Published: November 2023

It is shown that preconditioning of experimental X‐ray computed tomography (XCT) data is critical to achieve high‐precision segmentation scores. The challenging experimental XCT datasets and deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) are used that are trained with low‐resemblance synthetic XCT data. The material used is a 6‐phase Al–Si metal matrix composite‐reinforced with ceramic fibers and particles. To achieve generalization, in our past studies, specific data augmentation techniques were proposed for the synthetic XCT training data. In addition, two toolsets are devised: (1) special 3D DCNN architecture (3D Triple_UNet), slicing the experimental XCT data from multiple views (MultiView Forwarding), the i.S.Sy.Da.T.A. iterative segmentation algorithm, and (2) nonlocal means (NLM) conditioning (filtering) for the experimental XCT data. This results in good segmentation Dice scores across all phases compared to more standard approaches (i.e., standard UNet architecture, single view slicing, standard single training, and NLM conditioning). Herein, the NLM filter is replaced with the deep conditioning framework BAM SynthCOND introduced in a previous publication, which can be trained with synthetic XCT data. This leads to a significant segmentation precision increase for all phases. The proposed methods are potentially applicable to other materials and imaging techniques.
Copper and Cobalt Nanoparticles Enable Highly Stable and Fast Kinetics of Al–S Batteries
Authors: Zheng Jiening , Zhang Hongyu , Xu Tian , Ju Shunlong , Xia Guanglin , Yu Xuebin
Published: November 2023

Aluminum–Sulfur (Al–S) batteries are regarded as promising energy storage devices due to their high energy‐to‐price ratios and safety. However, they suffer from clumsy S ↔ Al2S3 reactions and short lifespans that limit their practical application. By combining the merits of adsorptive Cu, catalytic Co, and conductive N‐doped carbon matrix, the bimetals decorated N‐doped carbon (Cu1Co1@NC) enables smooth adsorption and conversion of polysulfides. Consequently, the S@Cu1Co1@NC exhibits excellent electrochemical performance (delivering a high capacity of 317.5 mAh g−1 after 320 cycles at 1.5 A g−1). Moreover, the Cu‐endowed strong Al affinity and robust 3D scaffold with Co‐enhanced conductivity can regulate Al3+ depositing/stripping and successfully suppress Al dendrites. As a result, the Cu1Co1@NC displays negligible Al nucleation overpotential and provides ultra‐long lifespan (>10 000 h) and exceptional reversible (Coulombic efficiency = 99.8–99.9%) Al3+ plating/stripping. Integrating all these advantages, a full Al–S cell constructed with Cu1Co1@NC as two‐in‐one hosts demonstrates excellent capacity retention with enhanced reversibility. This work provides insights into the design of promising Al–S batteries based on bifunctional CuCo bimetal and favorable 3D framework.
Achieving Ultra‐Durability and High Output Performance of Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Fu Shaoke , Hu Chenguo
Published: November 2023

With rapid development of the Internet of Things (IoTs) era, a variety of miniaturized and distributed electronics appear in every corner of industrial production and daily life. The shortage of fossil fuels requires renewable clean energy to replace traditional energy to meet the needs of smart and low‐power devices. Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is a new technology for converting high‐entropy mechanical energy into electric energy to power these devices. However, improving the output energy and durability of TENG remains a considerable challenge for practical applications. To solve these problems and push forward its commercialization process, this paper systematically reviews how to improve the durability of the sliding mode TENG (S‐TENG) from the aspects of material optimization and structural design. Besides, a variety of ways are introduced to improve the electric output of the S‐TENG under the premise of high durability. At last, challenges and future research focus in this field are also predicted, which provide a guideline for the research of the high electric output and ultra‐durability TENG for highly efficient energy harvesting and self‐powered sensing applications in the IoTs.
Tuning the Electronic Configuration of Oxygen Atom in Engineering Non‐Self‐Limited Nanozyme for Portable Immunosensor
Authors: Qileng Aori , Liu Weipeng , Liang Hongzhi , Chen Mengting , Shen Haoran , Chen Shizhang , Liu Yingju
Published: November 2023

Nanozymes are conceived to replace natural enzymes to avoid expensive processing techniques and fragile reservation conditions. Unfortunately, the self‐limited reaction has run counter to the desire for sustainable catalysis as natural enzymes. Herein, the universal mechanism to overcome the self‐limitation of nanozymes caused by the absorption of ions on the active sites is explored. Therefore, the dual noble metals (Au/Pt) are introduced as the center to synthesize two kinds of nanozymes with different types of central metal elements (Cu and Ce) and also compounds (metal‐organic framework and metallic oxide), showing a similar bond between a central metal and oxygen atom. The morphology characterization and density functional theory calculations demonstrate that the improvement in the electronic environment of neighboring oxygen atoms by inducing the charge redistribution via the bond between noble metals and compounds is crucial for enhancing catalytic activity and avoiding the adsorption of the nontarget substrate. This work not only experimentally proves that the adjustment on the electronic environment of adjacent atoms in the catalytic center is a feasible and universal approach to overcome the self‐limited reaction, but also achieves the application of self‐powered and portable immunosensor to broaden nanozymes in sensitive detection of illegal addition in food.
Aggregation‐Induced Emission Photosensitizer‐Armored Magnetic Nanoparticles for Sepsis Treatment: Combating Multidrug‐Resistant Bacteria and Alleviating Inflammation
Authors: Wang Jia‐Li , Chen Yuan , Song Jia‐Xing , Guo Bing‐Wei , Xia Feng‐Wei , Wan Yu , Wu Wan‐Xia , Zhang Chungu , Feng Shun , Wu Ming‐Yu
Published: November 2023

Sepsis, a life‐threatening condition stemming from an uncontrolled host immune response to bacterial infections, continues to impose a significant global burden with high morbidity and mortality. Addressing the challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance and uncontrollable inflammation remains a challenge in sepsis treatment. Moreover, traditional antibacterial materials have low bacterial trapping efficiency and inevitable prolonged circulation within the bloodstream, resulting in suboptimal antibacterial effects, metabolic complications, and undesirable side effects. In this study, an innovative solution is introduced through the development of Fe3O4@SH@TBTCP‐PMB, an aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) photosensitizer (PS)‐armored magnetic nanoparticles (NPs). It has high reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation efficiency and an exceptional ability to capture Gram‐positive bacteria with over 80% enrichment efficiency within just 1 h, even at low bacterial concentrations. Under white light illumination, 100 µg mL−1 of Fe3O4@SH@TBTCP‐PMB effectively eliminated more than 99.9% of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Furthermore, its magnetic separation properties efficiently prevent systemic blood circulation and associated side effects. Most importantly, Fe3O4@SH@TBTCP‐PMB demonstrates superior anti‐inflammatory effects by regulating cytokines, reducing adhesion molecule expression, and managing oxidative stress levels. This multifunctional approach significantly enhances sepsis survival rates, offering a promising strategy for combating multidrug‐resistant (MDR) bacterial infections in sepsis patients while addressing inflammation‐related complications.
Toward Compact Motorized Lens: Switch and Focus a Filter Wheel with Single Piezoelectric Tube
Authors: Wang Yingzhi , Chen Weishan , Deng Jie , Li Jing , Liu Yingxiang
Published: November 2023

Multispectral cameras (MSCs) have the capability of detecting and analyzing features invisible to human eyes and are of interest for many applications. However, the traditional MSC suffers from bulkiness since the light filtering and optical focusing mechanisms are independent. Herein, it proposed an integrated strategy that implements two functions through a tunable filtering‐focusing mechanism (TFFM), driven by two degrees of freedom (two‐DOF) piezoelectric tube actuator (PTA). The TFFM can realize light filtering and optical focusing through the rotary and linear motions of PTA. The configuration of PTA is presented, and the working principle is discussed. Then, prototypes of PTA and TFFM are developed, weighing merely 5.5 and 8 g, sizing of Ø7 × 21.4 mm and Ø35 × 7 mm, demonstrating the merits of lightweight and miniaturization. Experiments validate the effectiveness of TFFM, including multispectral images acquired with 0.1 s through rotary motion, focused images obtained with a linear speed of 60.2 mm−1s, and a series of images with different sharpness and wavelengths. The sharpness evaluation algorithms are adopted to determine the sharpest image. The work contributes to reducing the volume of MSC systems with multifunctionalities while keeping the devices simple, providing a practical and effective solution for the integrated design of MSC.
Developing Bright Afterglow Materials via Manipulation of Higher Triplet Excited States and Relay Synthesis in Difluoroboron β‐Diketonate Systems
Authors: Li Junbo , Xia Wen , Li Jiuyang , Wang Guangming , Wang Xuepu , Mo Zhe , Chen Xuefeng , Zhang Kaka
Published: November 2023

Afterglow brightness represents one of the most important characteristics in the application of afterglow materials. High molar absorption coefficient, high afterglow efficiency, and long afterglow lifetimes are required to achieve intense afterglow. However, current strategies cannot simultaneously fulfill these requirements due to specific intrinsic problems. Here, based on the understanding of difluoroboron β‐diketonate systems, the manipulation of higher triplet excited states is conceived to selectively enhance intersystem crossing with phosphorescence lifetimes remaining long. Aromatic substrates, which possess specific HOMO levels and T1 levels, are selected for relay synthesis to form difluoroboron β‐diketonate compounds with very close‐lying S1 and T2 levels; according to the energy gap law, such systems exhibit strong intersystem crossing. Upon doping into rigid matrices, the resultant difluoroboron β‐diketonate systems display the brightest ambient afterglow that has ever been observed.
Automated, High‐Throughput Phenotypic Screening and Analysis Platform to Study Pre‐ and Post‐Implantation Morphogenesis in Stem Cell‐Derived Embryo‐Like Structures
Authors: Shankar Vinidhra , van Blitterswijk Clemens , Vrij Erik , Giselbrecht Stefan
Published: November 2023

Combining high‐throughput generation and high‐content imaging of embryo models will enable large‐scale screening assays in the fields of (embryo) toxicity, drug development, embryogenesis, and reproductive medicine. This study shows the continuous culture and in situ (i.e., in microwell) imaging‐based readout of a 3D stem cell‐based model of peri‐implantation epiblast (Epi)/extraembryonic endoderm (XEn) development with an expanded pro‐amniotic cavity (PAC) (E3.5 E5.5), namely XEn/EPiCs. Automated image analysis and supervised machine learning permit the identification of embryonic morphogenesis, tissue compartmentalization, cell differentiation, and consecutive classification. Screens with signaling pathway modulators at different time windows provide spatiotemporal information on their phenotypic effect on developmental processes leading to the formation of XEn/EPiCs. Exposure of the biological model in the microwell platform to pathway modulators at two time windows, namely 0–72 h and 48–120 h, show that Wnt and Fgf/MAPK pathway modulators affect Epi differentiation and its polarization, while modulation of BMP and Tgfβ/Nodal pathway affects XEn specification and epithelialization. Further, their collective role is identified in the timing of the formation and expansion of PAC. The newly developed, scalable culture and analysis platform, thereby, provides a unique opportunity to quantitatively and systematically study effects of pathway modulators on early embryonic development.
Snapping for 4D‐Printed Insect‐Scale Metal‐Jumper
Authors: Yang Yang , Wang Yongquan
Published: November 2023

The replication of jumping motions observed in small organisms poses a significant challenge due to size‐related effects. Shape memory alloys (SMAs) exhibit a superior work‐to‐weight ratio, making them suitable for jumping actuators. However, the SMAs advantages are hindered by the limitations imposed by their single actuator configuration and slow response speed. This study proposes a novel design approach for an insect‐scale shape memory alloy jumper (net‐shell) using 4D printing technology and the bistable power amplification mechanism. The energy variations of the SMA net‐shell under different states and loads are qualitatively elucidated through a spring‐mass model. To optimize the performance of the SMA net‐shell, a non‐contact photo‐driven technique is employed to induce its shape transition. Experimental investigations explore the deformation response, energy release of the net‐shell, and the relationship between the light power density. The results demonstrate that the SMA net‐shell exhibits remarkable jumping capabilities, achieving a jump height of 60 body lengths and takeoff speeds of up to 300 body lengths per second. Furthermore, two illustrative cases highlight the potential of net‐shells for applications in unstructured terrains. This research contributes to miniaturized jumping mechanisms by providing a new design approach integrating smart materials and advanced structures.
The Cycling Mechanism of Manganese‐Oxide Cathodes in Zinc Batteries: A Theory‐Based Approach
Authors: Herrmann Niklas J. , Euchner Holger , Groß Axel , Horstmann Birger
Published: November 2023

Zinc‐based batteries offer good volumetric energy densities and are compatible with environmentally friendly aqueous electrolytes. Zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) rely on a lithium‐ion‐like Zn2+‐shuttle, which enables higher roundtrip efficiencies and better cycle life than zinc‐air batteries. Manganese‐oxide cathodes in near‐neutral zinc sulfate electrolytes are the most prominent candidates for ZIBs. Zn2+‐insertion, H+‐insertion, and Mn2+‐dissolution are proposed to contribute to the charge‐storage mechanism. During discharge and charge, two distinct phases are observed. Notably, the pH‐driven precipitation of zinc‐sulfate‐hydroxide is detected during the second discharge phase. However, a complete and consistent understanding of the two‐phase mechanism of these ZIBs is still missing. This paper presents a continuum full cell model supported by density functional theory (DFT) calculations to investigate the implications of these observations. The complex‐formation reactions of near‐neutral aqueous electrolytes are integrated into the battery model and, in combination with the DFT calculations, draw a consistent picture of the cycling mechanism. The interplay between electrolyte pH and reaction mechanisms is investigated at the manganese‐oxide cathodes and the dominant charge‐storage mechanism is identified. The model is validated with electrochemical cycling data, cyclic voltammograms, and in situ pH measurements. This allows to analyze the influence of cell design and electrolyte composition on cycling and optimize the battery performance.
High‐Quality Pure‐Phase MA‐Free Formamdinium Dion‐Jacobson 2D Perovskites for Stable Unencapsulated Photovoltaics
Authors: Ahmad Sajjad , Guan Ming , Kim Jinwook , He Xinjun , Ren Zhilin , Zhang Hong , Su Haibin , Choy Wallace C. H.
Published: November 2023

It is generally difficult to achieve high quality in low‐n‐value (MA‐free) FA‐based Dion‐Jacobson (DJ) 2D perovskites due to their low crystallinity, random well‐width distribution of multiple quantum wells (QWs) with disordered orientation, which has seriously hindered further advances in photovoltaics. Meanwhile, pure‐phase DJ 2D perovskites with uniform QWs width and fixed low‐n values are highly desirable for high efficiency and stability. Herein a novel 4APP(FA)3Pb4I13‐based quasi‐DJ‐2D perovskite is presented first, where 4APP is 4‐aminopiperidinium. The remarkable rigidity of 4APP and its strong hydrogen bonding with the perovskites prolong the perovskite intrinsic stability. the tri‐solvent engineering approach is further established by matching solvent properties to achieve pure‐phase DJ‐2D perovskites with uniform QWs width structure and finely oriented crystal grains, which enhance the power conversion efficiency of unencapsulated solar cells by 48%, representing one of the highest values in MA‐free DJ 2D perovskite with n≤4. Remarkably, the unencapsulated devices retain 95% of their initial PCE after 2000 h of operation under 1‐sun illumination at 40 °C, and 3000 h exposure in the air at 85 °C and 60–90% relative humidity (RH). The simultaneous control of rigidity and phase purity in DJ‐2D perovskites will open up new directions for fundamental research and application exploration.
MXene‐Modified Aramid Aerogel for Advanced Solar Steam Generation
Authors: Singh Mandeep , Qin Si , Usman Ken Aldren , Wang Lifeng , Jiang Degang , Yang Guoliang , Liu Dan , Ma Yuxi , Lei Weiwei
Published: November 2023

Developing solar‐driven desalination through interfacial steam generation is crucial to reducing global water shortages. However, traditional solar steam generation systems have faced efficiency, durability, cost, and complexity limitations. To overcome these issues, interfacial solar steam evaporators are fabricated using light‐absorbing materials with low thermal conductivity, high absorption capacity, and sufficient mechanical strength. Herein, an advanced 3D solar evaporator is developed by coating MXene onto the surface of the aramid nanofiber aerogels (MX@ANF aerogels). The MXene coating enhances the ANF aerogels' light absorption and thermal conversion capabilities. Additionally, the hydrophilicity of MXene complements the high porosity of the host aerogels, enhancing continuous water supply by improving the capillary action. Primarily, these MX@ANF aerogels show promising performance at the air–water interface, with an evaporation rate of 1.48 kg m−2 h−1 and steam conversion efficiency of 93.8% under 1 sun irradiation (1 kW m−2). These highlight the effectiveness of the MX@ANF aerogel as a material for solar‐driven desalination. Moreover, using MXene as a photothermal agent in composite materials paves new avenues toward efficient and cost‐effective solutions for addressing water scarcity through solar desalination.
CEI Optimization: Enable the High Capacity and Reversible Sodium‐Ion Batteries for Future Massive Energy Storage
Authors: Han Xiaoqing , Liu Zhenming , Hu Xinying , Huang Qianxi , Zhang Ding , Guo Huijuan , Yi Qun
Published: November 2023

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have attracted attention due to their potential applications for future energy storage devices. Despite significant attempts to improve the core electrode materials, only some work has been conducted on the chemistry of the interface between the electrolytes and essential electrode materials. Therefore, the different cathode–electrolyte interfaces (CEIs) that form between various cathode materials and liquid electrolytes for SIBs are briefly reviewed, and the requirements of CEI performance in low‐temperature SIBs. Modifying the cathode materials and electrolyte formulas offers an efficient strategy for CEI enhancement. The summary and analysis, given in this article, may serve as a reference for the development of better sodium‐ion batteries.
The more things change the more they stay the same: Factors influencing emergency medicine residency selection in the virtual era
Authors: Li‐Sauerwine Simiao , Weygandt Paul Logan , Smylie Laura , Williamson Kelly , Burns William , Ordonez Edgar , Hartman Nicholas D. , Chung Arlene S. , Ketterer Andrew R. , Jordan Jaime
Published: November 2023

Background

Interviews for emergency medicine (EM) residency positions largely transitioned to a virtual‐only format in 2020–2021. The impact of virtual interview factors on applicants’ rank of programs is unknown.

Objective

We sought to assess the impact of modifiable factors in virtual interviews on applicants’ rank of EM residency programs.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional mixed‐methods survey of students applying to at least one of seven study authors’ EM residency programs in the United States during the 2020–2021 application cycle. The survey was developed using an interactive Delphi process and piloted prior to implementation. The survey was administered from May to June 2021 with up to four email reminders. Quantitative analysis included descriptive statistics. Three authors performed a thematic qualitative analysis of free‐text responses.

Results

A total of 664 of 2281 (29.1%) students completed the survey, including 335 (50.5%) male, 316 (47.7%) female, and six (0.9%) nonbinary. A total of 143 (21.6%) respondents identified as underrepresented in medicine and 84 (12.7%) identified as LGBTQIA+. Respondents participated in a median of 14 interviews and ranked a median of 14 programs. Most respondents (335, 50.6%) preferred a choice of in‐person or virtual, while 183 (27.6%) preferred all in‐person, and 144 (21.8%) preferred all virtual. The program website and interview social were the most important factors influencing respondent ranking. Qualitative analysis revealed several positive aspects of virtual interviews including logistical ease and comfort. Negative aspects include technical issues, perceived interview hoarding, and barriers to applicant assessment and performance. Demonstrated effort by the program, effective information delivery, communication of resident culture, and a well‐implemented interview day positively influenced respondents’ rank of programs.

Conclusions

This study identified characteristics of the virtual interview format that impact applicants’ rank of programs. These results can inform future recruitment practices.
Spawning interactions between hatchery‐reared and wild naturalized rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum, 1792) in high‐altitude tropical streams, Kenya
Authors: Njue Justus N. , Ngugi Charles C. , Muchiri Mucai , Opiyo Mary A.
Published: November 2023

Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is among the most widely translocated fish species in the world. The current study evaluated the spawning interactions between naturalized and wild rainbow trout from two high‐altitude second‐order streams, in Kenya. Data on total length, weight, condition factor, fecundity, fertilization, egg diameter and fry survival were collected on spawning rainbow trout between March and December 2021. Length–weight relationship showed parabolic equations as W = 0.0144L2.900, W = 0.0069L3.0285 and W = 0.00027L3.175 for wild fish stock, hatchery‐reared and wild × hatchery‐reared rainbow trout, respectively. Total fecundity differed significantly among the hatchery‐reared, wild fish and the cross of the two (p < 0.05). The fertilization rate showed significant differences (p < 0.05), with no discernable difference observed between the hatchery‐reared and crossed (wild × hatchery‐reared). There was a positive correlation among the total fecundity to female egg weight, female body weight, fertilization rate and eyed egg survival in all the populations. Relative fecundity was significantly different among the three groups of fish (p < 0.05), but the differences between the hatchery and the crossed (wild × hatchery‐reared) fish showed no significant differences. We recommend the use of crossed (wild × hatchery‐reared) populations for fry production for use in aquaculture as they presented the highest fecundity and gave the best outcome of fry with high survival.
Statement on the effects of law enforcement in school settings
Authors: Tocci Charles , Stacy Sara T. , Siegal Rachel , Renick Jennifer , LoCurto Jamie , Lakind Davielle , Gruber Jennifer , Fisher Benjamin W.
Published: November 2023

School‐based law enforcement (SBLE) have become increasingly common in U.S. schools over recent decades despite the controversy surrounding their presence and lack of consensus around their associated benefits and harms. Drawing on the history and evidence base regarding SBLE, we advocate for an end to SBLE programs. Grounding our argument in principles of Community Psychology and positive youth development, we outline how the presence and actions of SBLE negatively affect individual students as well as school systems, with particularly harmful outcomes for students with minoritized and marginalized identities. Research on SBLE and school crime does not provide consistent evidence of positive impacts, and many studies find null effects for the relationship between SBLE and school crime or increases in crime and violence in schools. Though funding for SBLE is often prompted by high‐profile acts of gun violence in schools, evidence suggests that SBLE neither prevents these incidents, nor lessens the severity when they do occur. Thus, we advocate for removing law enforcement from school settings and redirecting resources into inclusive, evidence‐informed responses that are generally safer and more effective than SBLE. We close by outlining the policy landscape governing SBLE programs and ways communities can lobby for change.
Integrating Host Design and Tailored Electronic Effects of Yolk–Shell Zn−Mn Diatomic Sites for Efficient CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Pei Jiajing , Yang Li , Lin Jie , Zhang Zedong , Sun Zhiyi , Wang Dingsheng , Chen Wenxing
Published: November 2023

Modulating the surface and spatial structure of the host is associated with the reactivity of the active site, and also enhances the mass transfer effect of the CO2 electroreduction process (CO2RR). Herein, we describe the development of two‐step ligand etch–pyrolysis to access an asymmetric dual‐atomic‐site catalyst (DASC) composed of a yolk–shell carbon framework (Zn1Mn1‐SNC) derived from S,N‐coordinated Zn−Mn dimers anchored on a metal–organic framework (MOF). In Zn1Mn1‐SNC, the electronic effects of the S/N−Zn−Mn−S/N configuration are tailored by strong interactions between Zn−Mn dual sites and co‐coordination with S/N atoms, rendering structural stability and atomic distribution. In an H‐cell, the Zn1Mn1‐SNC DASC shows a low onset overpotential of 50 mV and high CO Faraday efficiency of 97 % with a low applied overpotential of 343 mV, thus outperforming counterparts, and in a flow cell, it also reaches a high current density of 500 mA cm−2 at −0.85 V, benefitting from the high structure accessibility and active dual sites. DFT simulations showed that the S,N‐coordinated Zn−Mn diatomic site with optimal adsorption strength of COOH* lowers the reaction energy barrier, thus boosting the intrinsic CO2RR activity on DASC. The structure‐property correlation found in this study suggests new ideas for the development of highly accessible atomic catalysts.
0D Pyramid‐intercalated 2D Bimetallic Halides with Tunable Electronic Structures and Enhanced Emission under Pressure
Authors: Liu Yang , Liang Jiayuan , Deng Zeyu , Guo Songhao , Ji Xiaoqin , Chen Congcong , Canepa Pieremanuele , Lü Xujie , Mao Lingling
Published: November 2023

Hybrid metal halides are emerging semiconductors as promising candidates for optoelectronics. The pursuit of hybridizing various dimensions of metal halides remains a desirable yet highly complex endeavor. By utilizing dimension engineering, a diverse array of new materials with intrinsically different electronic and optical properties has been developed. Here, we report a new family of 2D‐0D hybrid bimetallic halides, (C6N2H14)2SbCdCl9 ⋅ 2H2O (SbCd) and (C6N2H14)2SbCuCl9 ⋅ 2H2O (SbCu). These compounds adopt a new layered structure, consisting of alternating 0D square pyramidal [SbCl5] and 2D inorganic layers sandwiched by organic layers. SbCd and SbCu have optical band gaps of 3.3 and 2.3 eV, respectively. These compounds exhibit weak photoluminescence (PL) at room temperature, and the PL gradually enhances with decreasing temperature. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that SbCd and SbCu are direct gap semiconductors, where first‐principles band gaps follow the experimental trend. Moreover, given the different pressure responses of 0D and 2D components, these materials exhibit highly tunable electronic structures during compression, where a remarkable 11 times enhancement in PL emission is observed for SbCd at 19 GPa. This work opens new avenues for designing new layered bimetallic halides and further manipulating their structures and optoelectronic properties via pressure.
A Refined Quasi‐Static Method for Precise Determination of Piezoelectric Coefficient of Nanostructured Standard and Inclined Thin Films
Authors: Garcia Manuel Pelayo , Gibson Desmond , Hughes Dave Allan , Nuñez Carlos Garcia
Published: November 2023

Piezoelectric materials are key components for applications including non‐destructive testing, medical imaging, energy harvesting, ultrasonic sensors, and actuators. Among different materials exhibiting piezoelectricity, crystalline thin films are proposed as alternative candidates to replace ceramics due to their high integrability in micro‐/nano‐scale devices and compatibility with non‐conventional flexible/wearable substrates. To measure the piezoelectric response, Berlincourt (BC) quasi‐static method is proposed as one of the simplest, however for thin films this method has not yet been explored in sufficient detail. This paper reports the effects of measuring BC parameters on the resulting piezoelectric coefficient (d33) of sputter deposited ZnO with the shape of standard and inclined nanostructured thin films. Results provide comprehensive, reliable and repeatable information about true piezoelectric coefficient of thin films (6.0 ± 0.1 pC N−1 for standard; 24 ± 1 pC N−1 for inclined films) by selecting optimized parameters in BC measurements, including dynamic force (0.45 Npp), static force (1 N) and frequency (110 Hz), utilizing the protocol here named Method 2 for clamping the film, and measuring after the stage of high variability has passed (t >1200 s). Additionally, this modified BC has allowed the indirect estimation of stress accumulated in the ZnO lattice during measurements, offering a reliable and repeatable method for the determination of true d33 in crystalline thin films.
Possible stellar asterisms carved on a protohistoric stone
Authors: Molaro Paolo , Bernardini Federico
Published: November 2023

Chisel marks on a stone uncovered in Rupinpiccolo protohistoric hill fort from north‐eastern Italy were suggested to be a representation of the night sky (Bernardini et al. 2022 Documenta Praehistorica XLIX). The patterns of the 29 marks are analyzed here to establish if they reproduce popular stellar asterisms. Nine marks are found to match the Tail of Scorpius and five the Orion's Belt, together with Rigel and Betelgeuse. Nine marks are found in the approximate position of the Pleiades showing some match with the cluster members. On the back side, 5 marks possibly reproduce Cassiopeia. One mark slightly North of Orion cannot be identified. The 28 marks show a Pearson correlation coefficient (28) with stellar positions higher than 0.99 with a probability of a wrong correlation lower than 0.001. Departures are about one degree, or about 7 mm, as the mean diameter of the marks, which suggests a manufacturing limitation in the charting. The fort dates 1800–400 BCE when Scorpius and Orion showed about the same orientation at the heliacal rising. The unidentified mark challenges the whole picture. We suggest it could have been the progenitor of a failed supernova, thus offering also the possibility of a verification.
Intensified perfusion culture (IPC) reduced recombinant protein fragmentation
Authors: Yan Ge , Lu Xun , Sun Ruiqiang , Zhou Weichang , Zhou Hang
Published: November 2023

Mammalian cells remain the mainstay of biological production host. In industry, cultivating and harvest strategies are sorted in batch mode (e.g., batch, fed‐batch, concentrated fed‐batch and intensified fed‐batch) and continuous mode (e.g., perfusion). To retrieve greater productivity and better product quality, especially for the sensitive products prone to fragmentation, culture modes with various modifications are innovated (e.g., intensified perfusion culture [IPC]). In our study, we demonstrated that the fragmentation of Fc‐fusion product (Molecule A) is time‐dependent in traditional fed‐batch (TFB) culture. The fragmentation proportion increased from 3.8% to 12.4% for Clone A, 0.8% to 1.7% for Clone B and 0.9% to 2.0% for Clone C from Day 10 to Day 14. By applying a novel bioprocess, IPC, which allows continuous feeding of the fresh medium and constant removal of the spent medium without bleeding cells to maintain a defined constant viable cell density, the fragmentation was reduced to 0.3% while the productivity was increased from 2.96 g/L to 15.51 g/L for Clone A. To validate whether the fragmentation reduction is product‐sensitive, plasmids carrying the DNA sequences of two other Fc‐fusion molecules (Molecule B and Molecule C) were transfected into the host. The results showed consistent fragmentation reducing effect by using IPC. Furthermore, the cultivation scale was expanded to 50 L and 1000 L. A minimum fragmentation level below 0.1% was observed for Molecule C. Our study revealed the capability of IPC in reducing Fc‐fusion protein fragmentation and the reproducibility when scaling up while maintaining high productivity.