bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethnic and Gender Differences in Smoking and Smoking Cessation in a Population of Young Adult Air Force Recruits
Authors: Ward Kenneth D. , Weg Mark W. Vander , Kovach Kristen Wood , Klesges Robert C. , DeBon Margaret W. , Haddock C. Keith , Talcott G. Wayne , Lando Harry A.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To examine gender and ethnic differences in smoking and smoking cessation in a population of young adult military recruits.

Design.

A self-administered survey of demographics, tobacco use, and other health risk behaviors was administered at the start of basic military training.

Setting.

The study was conducted at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas, where all U.S. Air Force recruits complete basic military training.

Subjects.

All recruits who entered the U.S. Air Force between September 1995 and September 1996 participated in this study (n = 32,144; 100% participation rate).

Measures.

Recruits completed a written 53-item behavioral risk questionnaire. Measures examined in the present study included smoking status (ever having smoked a cigarette, current daily smoking, and quitting); demographics (ethnicity, gender, education, family income, and age); smoking history; and nicotine dependence.

Results.

Rates of ever smoking, current daily smoking, and quitting were examined in multiple logistic regression analyses as a function of gender and ethnicity, controlling for age, education, and family income. Overall, 54% of recruits had ever smoked a cigarette and 24.9% smoked daily at the time of entry into basic military training. Smoking rates were highest among white and Native American recruits. Among whites, women were more likely to be a current daily smoker (31.6% vs. 29.4%; odds ratio [OR] = 1.18, 99% confidence intervals [CI] = 1.08–1.29). The opposite pattern was observed among African-Americans (5.6% vs. 9.8%, respectively; OR = .57; CI = .41–.79). Current smokers had low levels of nicotine dependence compared with the general population of U.S. smokers, but whites tended to be more dependent than other ethnic groups. Cessation rates were similar for men and women but differed according to ethnicity, ranging from 15% among whites to 23% among Hispanics.

Conclusions.

These findings document important gender and ethnic differences in cigarette smoking among military recruits. Whites and Native Americans were more likely to smoke, less likely to quit, and more nicotine-dependent than other ethnic groups. Across gender/ethnicity groups, smoking rates were especially high among white women, with nearly one-third smoking daily until entry into basic training. Gender differences were not observed in cessation rates, but Hispanics were more likely than other ethnic groups to have quit smoking. The results highlight the need to develop effective cessation interventions for this population.
Making Youth Tobacco Control Programs More Ecological: Organizational and Professional Profiles
Authors: Richard Lucie , Gauvin Lise , Potvin Louise , Denis Jean-Louis , Kishchuk Natalie
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To identify the organizational and professional correlates of the integration of the ecological approach in Canadian public health organizations' tobacco control programs for youth.

Design.

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting.

Canadian public health organizations.

Subjects.

One hundred and ten tobacco control programs implemented in 90 organizations. The response rate for the organizations was 87%.

Measures.

Descriptions of programs were obtained by telephone interviews. An analytical procedure was applied to the program data to identify intervention settings, targets and strategies for each program. Using this information, a summary score of the integration of the ecological approach was estimated for each program. Organizational and professional variables were assessed by self-administered questionnaires to managers and professionals involved in these programs.

Results.

The level of integration of the ecological approach in programs was related to organizational (frequency of contacts and collaborations with external partners, team composition) and extraorganizational factors (size of the city in which the public health unit is located). Cognitive attributes of the practitioners (knowledge and beliefs) also emerged as significant predictors. Finally, positive associations were observed between practitioners' personal characteristics (educational achievement, working status in health promotion [full vs. part-time], previous experience, gender, and disciplinary/professional background) and cognitive predictors.

Conclusions.

Organizational environment and staff preparation play a critical role in the adoption of the ecological approach in tobacco control programs.
Using Ethnography to Improve Intervention Design
Authors: Brett John A. , Heimendinger Jerianne , Boender Carol , Morin Cathy , Marshall Julie A.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

The purpose of this research was to use a three-phase ethnographic approach to examine the range of factors that affect people's decisions about physical activity and diet.

Design.

We used open-ended data collection strategies, analyzed inductively, to inform the development of a family intervention.

Setting.

The study was conducted in a small low-income town in Colorado.

Subjects.

Families with young children were selected to include social, economic, and ethnic diversity. Twenty-nine of 31 invited families participated (94%).

Measures.

The measures consisted of 21 open-ended interviews in the first phase; 12 semistructured interviews in the second phase, and six home visits in the third phase. The Atlas.ti program25 was used for data analysis.

Results.

Significant barriers to regular exercise and good dietary habits were grouped as social/structural (e.g., working parents, costs of exercise) and cultural (e.g., perception that fast food is normal). Behavioral facilitators include disease in the family and community opportunities for exercise. Results revealed family values and dynamics that other methods would have missed.

Conclusions.

These data suggest that families are embedded in a multicomponent “web” of factors that influence diet and physical activity. It is feasible and desirable to use ethnographic methods to discern the interactions of these factors that make each household unique. These results argue for dynamic intervention designs that operate from a broad contextual perspective.
Intra-annual variability of carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes in suspended organic matter in waters of the western continental shelf of India
Authors: Maya M. V. , Karapurkar S. G. , Naik H. , Roy R. , Shenoy D. M. , Naqvi S. W. A.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Intra-annual variations of δ13C and δ15N of water-column suspended particulate organic matter (SPOM) have been investigated to understand the biogeochemical cycling of C and N in the Western Continental Shelf of India (WCSI). The key issues being addressed are: how the δ15N of SPOM is affected by seasonally varying processes of organic matter production and respiration and how it relates to the δ15N of sedimentary organic matter that appears to show a decreasing trend despite an apparent intensification of seasonal oxygen deficiency over the past few decades? A secondary objective was to evaluate the sources of organic carbon. Elemental carbon and nitrogen concentrations, C/N ratios in SPOM, along with ancillary chemical and biological variables including phytoplankton pigment abundance were also determined on a seasonal basis (from March 2007 to September 2008), with the partial exception of the southwest (SW) monsoon period. The results reveal significant shifts in isotopic signatures, especially δ15N, of SPOM before and after the onset of SW monsoon. Very low δ15N values, reaching a minimum of −4.17 ‰, are found during the pre-monsoon period. Our results provide the first direct evidence for the addition of substantial amounts of isotopically light nitrogen by the diazotrophs, especially Trichodesmium, in the region. The δ15N of SPOM is generally lower than the mean value (7.38 ‰) for surficial sediments, presumably because of diagenetic enrichment. The results support the view that sedimentary δ15N may not necessarily reflect denitrification intensity in the overlying waters due to diverse sources of nitrogen and variability of its isotopic composition. The observed intra-annual variability of δ13C of SPOM during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods is generally small. Phytoplankton production and probably species composition could drive some of the observed changes. The largest changes (depletion of δ13C and increase in C/N) appear to occur during the pre- and post-monsoon seasons, presumably through episodic deposition of terrestrial organic matter from the atmosphere. During the SW monsoon, when a large input of terrestrial organic matter is expected through runoff from land, the C/N ratio remains low, but significant difference is observed between δ13C data in 2007 and 2008. Inputs of soil organic matter that may have elemental and isotopic signatures different from those of the conventional (C3 plant derived) organic matter could explain the constancy of the C/N ratio.
Modulation of the lytic apparatus by the FtsEX complex within the bacterial division machinery
Authors: Alcorlo Martín , Martínez‐Caballero Siseth , Li Jianwei , Sham Lok‐To , Luo Min , Hermoso Juan A.
Published: June 2024

The FtsEX membrane complex constitutes an essential component of the ABC transporter superfamily, widely distributed among bacterial species. It governs peptidoglycan degradation for cell division, acting as a signal transmitter rather than a substrate transporter. Through the ATPase activity of FtsE, it facilitates signal transmission from the cytosol across the membrane to the periplasm, activating associated peptidoglycan hydrolases. This review concentrates on the latest structural advancements elucidating the architecture of the FtsEX complex and its interplay with lytic enzymes or regulatory counterparts. The revealed three‐dimensional structures unveil a landscape wherein a precise array of intermolecular interactions, preserved across diverse bacterial species, afford meticulous spatial and temporal control over the cell division process.
Demographic assessment of reintroduced bearded vultures in the Alps: Success in the core, challenges in the periphery
Authors: Schaub Michael , Loercher Franziska , Hegglin Daniel , Arlettaz Raphaël
Published: June 2024

Regular assessment of reintroduced populations is essential to guide management and provide lessons for other reintroduction projects. Bearded vulture Gypaetus barbatus reintroduction in the Alps began in 1986 with the release of the first fledglings, the first successful reproduction was recorded in 1997, and the population has grown steadily since. A previous assessment suggested that no further releases would be required to establish a self‐sustaining population from a demographic point of view. However, this conclusion was based on a small sample size and spatially homogeneous demographic rates of released individuals, which may differ from and be spatially variable among wild‐hatched individuals.

Using longitudinal data and breeding site survey data, we constructed an integrated population model to examine the demography of the entire Alpine population, spatially stratified into a core and a periphery. We performed retrospective population analyses to identify demographic reasons for spatial differences in population growth and conducted population viability analyses to assess the impact of future threats and reintroduction options.

In 2021, an estimated 172 (CRI: 147–198) females were present in the Alps, of which 65 (CRI: 63–67) were breeders. Adult survival and productivity were higher in the core than in the periphery, so the population grew more strongly in the core than in the periphery. Differences in adult survival contributed most to the differences in population growth between the two areas.

The population viability analysis predicts that the Alpine population will double in 10 years but that an increase in the mortality hazard above 0.055 will lead to a population decline. Unlike the population in the core, the population in the periphery is dependent on further releases at this stage.

Bearded vulture reintroductions in the Alps have succeeded in creating a self‐sustaining population with higher reproductive success and similar survival probabilities to the autochthonous Pyrenean population. In general, management should focus on preventing further mortality risks. In the periphery, reducing current mortality and increasing reproductive success are essential to make the population independent of releases.
Nanoporous Silica Lattice Coated with LiCl@PHEA for Continuous Water Harvesting from Atmospheric Humidity
Authors: Xu Xin , Liu Weilin , Xian Tongfeng , Foroughi Firoozeh , Zhou Shixiang , Ding Jun
Published: June 2024

Recently, atmospheric water harvesting (AWH) based on hygroscopic salt on an inorganic or organic carrier has attracted great attention because of its significant potential applications in the environment. The major technical challenges for practical applications are how to prevent the leakage of hygroscopic salt while achieving a high capacity for sorption of atmospheric water and a high sorption rate. Additionally, techniques for converting sorbed water (in the form of a lithium chloride (LiCl) solution) into clean water need to be developed. Here, a novel method for continuous atmospheric water harvesting, leveraging LiCl@PHEA hydrogels is introduced. Synthesized via one‐step UV polymerization in saturated LiCl solutions, these hydrogels exhibit remarkable air distension ability (>60 times), achieving high water sorption efficiency (11.18 gg−1 at 90% relative humidity in 30 min) with over 90 wt.% salt content and no leakage. This water collection system integrates a porous evaporator and a 3D‐printed silica substrate, ensuring an extraordinarily high evaporation rate (>11 kgm−2 h−1 under sunlight) and efficient water transmission. A prototype based on this achieves a record‐breaking collection rate of over 5 kgm−2 h−1, enabling large‐scale efficient atmospheric water harvesting. Additionally, continuous hydrogen production through electrolysis using the collected water (< 5 ppm of salts) is demonstrated.
A Multimodal Antibacterial Platform for Visualizing Reactive Oxygen Species Generation and Promoting Wound Healing
Authors: He Xiaodong , Xu Ziyi , Wu Huajun , Sathishkumar Gnanasekar , Zhang Kai , Rao Xi , Kharaziha Mahshid , Li Nianbing , Kang En‐Tang , Xu Liqun
Published: June 2024

Photo‐activated therapeutic strategies have great potential for preventing bacterial infections, especially infections associated with drug‐resistant bacteria, owing to their minimal tendency to induce drug resistance. A single course of light‐based therapeutics may lack the desired efficacy. The use of a high‐power excitation source or high doses of photo‐activated agents may cause excessive damage to normal tissues. Herein, a multimodal antibacterial platform that combines photodynamic and photothermal therapies has been developed. The fluoro‐substituted coumarin compound (TCF) and Prussian blue nanocubes (PB NCs) are integrated into the bacterial cellulose (BC) to form a versatile wound dressing (BC‐TCF‐PB). Fluoro‐substitution in TCF is found to enhance its production of 1O2 by boosting the intersystem crossing. Furthermore, the generated 1O2 can react with the thiocarbonyl group in TCF to form a highly emissive product. In situ self‐reporting fluorescence of TCF allows for the visualization of 1O2 generation, and assessment of the bacterial eradication. In addition, the BC‐TCF‐PB platform exhibits synergistic antibacterial effects on the methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and provides an effective solution for infection control and wound healing. Thus, the BC‐TCF‐PB dressing, with self‐reporting of the reactive biocide generation in situ, has offered valuable insights into effective wound management.
Stoichiometry‐Induced Ferromagnetism in Altermagnetic Candidate MnTe
Authors: Chilcote Michael , Mazza Alessandro R. , Lu Qiangsheng , Gray Isaiah , Tian Qi , Deng Qinwen , Moseley Duncan , Chen An‐Hsi , Lapano Jason , Gardner Jason S. , Eres Gyula , Ward T. Zac , Feng Erxi , Cao Huibo , Lauter Valeria , McGuire Michael A. , Hermann Raphael , Parker David , Han Myung‐Geun , Kayani Asghar , Rimal Gaurab , Wu Liang , Charlton Timothy R. , Moore Robert G. , Brahlek Matthew
Published: June 2024

The field of spintronics has seen a surge of interest in altermagnetism due to novel predictions and many possible applications. MnTe is a leading altermagnetic candidate that is of significant interest across spintronics due to its layered antiferromagnetic structure, high Neel temperature (TN ≈ 310 K) and semiconducting properties. The results on molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) grown MnTe/InP(111) films are presented. Here, it is found that the electronic and magnetic properties are driven by the natural stoichiometry of MnTe. Electronic transport and in situ angle‐resolved photoemission spectroscopy show the films are natively metallic with the Fermi level in the valence band and the band structure is in good agreement with first‐principles calculations for altermagnetic spin‐splitting. Neutron diffraction confirms that the film is antiferromagnetic with planar anisotropy and polarized neutron reflectometry indicates weak ferromagnetism, which is linked to a slight Mn‐richness that is intrinsic to the MBE‐grown samples. When combined with the anomalous Hall effect, this work shows that the electronic response is strongly affected by the ferromagnetic moment. Altogether, this highlights potential mechanisms for controlling altermagnetic ordering for diverse spintronic applications.
Modulating the Hydrogenation Mechanism of Electrochemical CO2 Reduction Using Ruthenium Atomic Species on Bismuth
Authors: Liu Xiao , Zhen Cheng , Wu Junxiu , You Xiao , Wu Yudong , Hao Qi , Yu Gang , Gu M. Danny , Liu Kai , Lu Jun
Published: June 2024

The conversion of CO2 into formate through electrochemical methods is emerging as an elegant approach for industrial‐scale CO2 utilization in the near future. Although Bismuth (Bi)‐based materials have shown promise thank to their excellent selectivity, their limited reactivity remains a challenge. Herein, this study demonstrates a significant enhancement in the CO2‐to‐formate efficiency of Bi by incorporating ruthenium (Ru) atomic species. Ru single atom doped Bi exhibited a nearly twofold higher partial current density compared with pure Bi and Ru clusters doped Bi, while over 95% Faradaic efficiency (FE) is maintained. Through comprehensive investigations using a combined approach of electrochemical techniques, operando spectroscopy, and theoretical calculations, this study elucidates that the presence of Ru single atom promotes H2O dissociation and H* migration to Bi sites for CO2‐to‐formate conversion by significantly reducing the energy barrier via a H* spillover path. Besides, it is constructed Ru–Bi bridge sites for efficient CO2 hydrogenation via a non‐spillover path, which served as the major mechanism for CO2‐to‐formate conversion in Ru single atom doped Bi.
Mechanically Strong and Tough Organohydrogels for Wide Temperature Tolerant, Flexible Solid‐State Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhou Qingya , Griffin Anthony , Qian Jin , Qiang Zhe , Sun Bin , Ye Changhuai , Zhu Meifang
Published: June 2024

Hydrogel‐based flexible solid‐state supercapacitors (SSCs) hold great promise for wearable electronics, yet significant challenges persist in simultaneously achieving excellent mechanical properties, high ionic conductivity, outstanding electrochemical properties, and wide operating temperature ranges. Here, this study presents a straightforward method for synthesizing dual crosslinked polyvinyl alcohol‐polyimide (PVA‐PI) organohydrogels via a simple one‐pot synthesis followed by a freezing‐thawing process. The controlled dual crosslinked networks with significanonetly different crosslinking densities and robust intermolecular hydrogen bonding interactions facilitated by the macromolecular crosslinker of PI, endow the organohydrogels with both high mechanical properties and ionic conductivity. Furthermore, SSCs based on PVA‐PI organohydrogels are fabricated, which can exhibit outstanding electrochemical performance at temperatures ranging from −40 to 80 °C. Specifically, the energy density reaches 16.7 µWh cm−2 even at −40 °C under a power density of 410.0 µW cm−2. These SSCs also show excellent performance stability under various deformations, such as bending and compression, alongside exceptional long‐term cycling stability (over 10 000 cycles) with high capacitance retention from −40 to 50 °C. The synthesis strategy, along with a robust mechanism for enhancing mechanical properties of hydrogels, demonstrated in this study offers insights for the development of strong hydrogels/organohydrogels with broad temperature adaptability for soft electronic applications.
Simultaneous Manufacture of Magnetic and Locally Conductive Millimeter Scale Bifunctional Devices via Single‐Material Projection‐Based Stereolithography
Authors: Huang Zhiyuan , Yu Zhongwei , Deng Xinghong , Mo Yi , Qiao Jing , Li Longqiu
Published: June 2024

The development of projection‐based stereolithography 3D printing techniques has provided a powerful approach to fabricate millimeter scale functional devices with complex structures. However, the current processes face challenges in frequent switching between multiple materials or processes, resulting in low efficiency and accuracy during the fabrication of bifunctional devices. To address these challenges, chemical deposition is utilized to modify graphene nanoplatelets (GNs) with Fe3O4 magnetic particles and incorporate them into the photosensitive resin, resulting in the development of a novel bifunctional printing material with magnetic and locally conductive properties. Furthermore, the localized conductivity of devices is controlled by an electric‐field‐assisted alignment process of the magnetic GNs (mGNs) during the printing process. Herein, this single‐material projection‐based stereolithography allows for the simultaneous fabrication of magnetic and locally conductive millimeter scale bifunctional devices without switching between multiple materials or processes. A magnetically driven circuit switch and signal coding gear are fabricated as demonstrations. This work significantly improves the efficiency and accuracy of fabricating millimeter scale bifunctional devices, thereby facilitating their application in the fabrication of miniaturized and integrated devices.
Magnetic Mn‐Incorporated Cs3Cu2Br5 Nanocrystals for Spin‐Polarized Enhanced Photocatalytic Biomass Conversion Coupled with H2O2 Evolution
Authors: Guo Meijun , Talebian‐Kiakalaieh Amin , Hashem Elhussein M. , Xia Bingquan , Ran Jingrun , Qiao Shi‐Zhang
Published: June 2024

Copper‐based halide perovskite, as an ideal alternative to lead‐based halide perovskite, has attracted much attention in many applications owing to its earth‐abundant element, non‐toxicity, and excellent optical properties. In this report, magnetic Mn‐incorporated lead‐free copper halide perovskite (Cs3Cu2Br5) nanocrystal (NC) is for the first time designed and prepared using a one‐pot hot‐injection route, resulting in a new emission band at ≈540 nm accompanied with self‐trapped exciton (STE) emission centered at ≈445 nm from Cs3Cu2Br5 NC. In situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and in situ kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) confirm that the Mn2+ incorporation causes efficient electron–hole separation and extended charge lifetime in Mn‐doped Cs3Cu2Br5 NC, which exhibits significantly raised selectively photocatalytic biomass conversion coupled with obviously enhanced H2O2 evolution. With an external magnetic field, the spin‐polarized electrons in Mn‐doped Cs3Cu2Br5 NC arouses reduced charge recombination and more available electrons/holes for surface redox reaction, further raising the photocatalytic performance. This is confirmed by in situ steady‐state/transient‐state photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, in situ transient photocurrent measurement, and in situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy with external magnetic field. In situ electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra reveal the radical‐involved reaction pathway for biomass conversion. This research exhibits the great potential of spin‐polarization‐enhanced photocatalysis by an external magnetic field without additional energy consumption.
Biomimetic Multilayered Lipid Nanovesicles for Potent Protein Vaccination
Authors: Koo Bon Il , Lee Dong Jae , Rahman Rafia Tasnim , Nam Yoon Sung
Published: June 2024

Lipid vesicles are widely used for drug and gene delivery, but their structural instability reduces in vivo efficacy and requires specialized handling. To address these limitations, strategies like lipid cross‐linking and polymer–lipid conjugation are suggested to enhance stability and biological efficacy. However, the in vivo metabolism of these altered lipids remains unclear, necessitating further studies. A new stabilization technique without chemical modification is urgently needed. Here, a bio‐mimetic approach for fabricating robust multilamellar lipid vesicles to enhance in vivo delivery and stabilization of protein antigens is presented. This method leverages 1‐O‐acylceramide, a natural skin lipid, to facilitate the self‐assembly of lipid nanovesicles. Incorporating 1‐O‐acylceramide, anchoring lipid bilayers akin to its role in the stratum corneum, provides excellent stability under environmental stresses, including freeze–thaw cycles. Encapsulating ovalbumin as a model antigen and the adjuvant monophosphoryl lipid A demonstrates the vesicle's potential as a nanovaccine platform. In vitro studies show enhanced immune responses with both unilamellar and multilamellar vesicles, but in vivo analyses highlight the superior efficiency of multilamellar vesicles in inducing higher antibody and cytokine levels. This work suggests ceramide‐induced multilamellar lipid vesicles as an effective nanovaccine platform for enhanced antigen delivery and stability.
Neuro‐Immunomodulatory Potential of Nanoenabled 4D Bioprinted Microtissue for Cartilage Tissue Engineering
Authors: Couto Marina , Vasconcelos Daniela Pereira , Pereira Catarina Leite , Neto Estrela , Sarmento Bruno , Lamghari Meriem
Published: June 2024

Cartilage defects trigger post‐traumatic inflammation, leading to a catabolic metabolism in chondrocytes and exacerbating cartilage degradation. Current treatments aim to relieve pain but fail to target the inflammatory process underlying osteoarthritis (OA) progression. Here, a human cartilage microtissue (HCM) nanoenabled with ibuprofen‐loaded poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) nanoparticles (ibu‐PLGA NPs) is 4D‐bioprinted to locally mitigate inflammation and impair nerve sprouting. Under an in vitro inflamed environment, the nanoenabled HCM exhibits chondroprotective potential by decreasing the interleukin (IL)1β and IL6 release, while sustaining extracellular matrix (ECM) production. In vivo, assessments utilizing the air pouch mouse model affirm the nanoenabled HCM non‐immunogenicity. Nanoenabled HCM‐derived secretomes do not elicit a systemic immune response and decrease locally the recruitment of mature dendritic cells and the secretion of multiple inflammatory mediators and matrix metalloproteinases when compared to inflamed HCM condition. Notably, the nanoenabled HCM secretome has no impact on the innervation profile of the skin above the pouch cavity, suggesting a potential to impede nerve growth. Overall, HCM nanoenabled with ibu‐PLGA NPs emerges as a potent strategy to mitigate inflammation and protect ECM without triggering nerve growth, introducing an innovative and promising approach in the cartilage tissue engineering field.
Performance of Ferrite‐Based Electrodes for Steam Electrolysis in Symmetrical Solid Oxide Cells
Authors: Kaur Gurpreet , Biswas Saheli , Nisar Jamila , Kulkarni Aniruddha P. , Giddey Sarbjit
Published: June 2024

There is an increasing interest in the exploration of non‐Nickel cathode materials for steam electrolysis in solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOEC) for green hydrogen production with high Faradaic efficiencies. Ferrite‐based ceramic materials have drawn a lot of attention in this regard due to their appreciable mixed ionic electronic conductivity. This work aims to explore a ferrite‐based mixed ionic electronic conductor electrode for symmetrical SOEC that can contribute significantly to simplifying the manufacturing processes. A composite of silver (Ag) and A‐site deficient lanthanum strontium cobalt ferrite ((La0.60Sr0.40)0.95Co0.20Fe0.80O3‐x), is studied for steam electrolysis in a yttria stabilized zirconia electrolyte‐supported symmetrical tubular solid oxide cell. A considerable current density of 250 mA cm−2 is obtained at 1.5 V and 800 °C in a Helium‐Steam atmosphere (50% humidified) with a corresponding polarization resistance as low as 0.15 Ω‐cm2. The polarization resistance is comparable to a number of electrodes reported in the literature for steam electrolysis. However, a 10% drop in current density is observed during the first 20 h of electrolysis at 1.5 V and 800 °C in a Helium‐Steam atmosphere (50% humidified), but no further drop is encountered during the next 46 h of continuous operation.
In‐Situ Growth of MgO@rGO Core‐Shell Structure via CO2 Thermal Reaction for Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Yue Xiaoju , Han Lin , Wang Shifeng , Dun Linan , Wang Jinnong , Wang Yuanhao , Du Chun
Published: June 2024

Degradation of organic pollutants in wastewater is crucial for global environmental health. Semiconductor‐based photocatalytic technologies have received widespread attention due to their ability to directly utilize solar energy, produce no secondary pollution, and offer long‐lasting functionality. However, current photocatalyst preparation technologies face issues such as complex manufacturing processes, low efficiency, and the need for various additives. Therefore, this work proposes a simple and eco‐friendly method to in‐situ growth of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) onto magnesium oxide (MgO), forming a MgO@rGO core‐shell structured photocatalyst through CO2 thermal reaction process. After systematic study, the incorporation of rGO onto MgO core greatly extends the light absorption range from ultraviolet (UV) to visible wavelength, enabling substantially enhanced light capture and photoexcited carriers. Additionally, the core‐shell heterojunction with a built‐in electric field at the interface between MgO and rGO facilitates distinctly the separation and migration of the photogenerated charges. This structure‐induced synergistic effect boosts the photocatalytic performance of MgO@rGO by a factor of 1.7, 4.1, 41.8, and 6.4, compared with MgO (stripped), MgO (pure), rGO, and commercially used TiO2, respectively. This work provides a simple and effective strategy for designing advanced functional nanocomposites to address environmental problems.
Repurposing Discarded Electric Geyser Scaling Waste for Biochar Modification and Insights into Removal of Nitrate and Fluoride from Drinking Water
Authors: Verma Vartika , Sharma Yogesh Chandra
Published: June 2024

This research explores the potential of use of waste scaling deposition from electric geysers (EGWS) to synthesize calcium oxide and address fluoride and nitrate contamination in water. The study adopts a circular economy framework by utilizing the synthesized calcium oxide to modify corn cob biochar through ball‐milling, creating a cost‐effective and environmentally sustainable adsorbent. The adsorbent is characterized and pHpzc analysis of CaO@CBC indicates sustained high adsorption capacities for nitrate and fluoride across a broad pH range (2–11). The adsorption kinetics follow a pseudo‐second‐order model, indicating chemisorption mechanisms. The Langmuir isotherm model fits well, showing high maximum adsorption capacities of 18.36 mg g−1 for fluoride and 19.27 mg g−1 for nitrate, surpassing those reported for other materials. Thermodynamic studies indicate that the uptake reactions of fluoride and nitrate are spontaneous and exothermic. Results from pH studies, XPS analysis, and FTIR offer insights into the adsorption mechanism by suggesting electrostatic attraction, inner‐sphere complexation, and ion exchange. The research establishes the efficacy of CaO‐impregnated biochar derived from electric geyser waste in removing fluoride and nitrate, offering a sustainable solution for water pollution. This work breakthroughs the development of efficient and eco‐friendly adsorbents for water treatment, aligning with the principles of a circular economy.
Boosting Photocatalytic H2O2 Generation by Constructing a Cyano and Carbon Dots/Polypyrrole Co‐Modified Carbon Nitride Heterostructure
Authors: Zhang Yiqiang , Li Xiaochun , Ding Shushan , Chang Qing , Xue Chaorui , Li Ning , Zheng Wenjing , Hao Caihong , Yang Jinlong , Hu Shengliang
Published: June 2024

Constructing heterostructure is a promising strategy to enhance photocatalytic performance. Here, a cyano and carbon dots/polypyrrole (CDs/PPy) co‐modified carbon nitride (CPKCN) heterostructure is constructed for photocatalytic H2O2 generation. It is interestingly found that the intermediates formed during the oxidation polymerization of pyrrole can be the potential electron trapping sites and reactive sites. In addition, the localized photoheat produced by CDs/PPy also plays an active role in improving photocatalytic activity. Moreover, the addition of CDs/PPy leads to a higher negative zeta potential of CPKCN, which is favorable for the attraction of the sample surface to H+. These features, plus the positive effect of cyano groups, collectively boost the charge transfer and improve the selectivity of two‐electron O2 reduction. Therefore, the enhanced photocatalytic H2O2 generation performance of the developed CPKCN is achieved, with an H2O2 generation rate of 3.7 mmol g−1 h−1 under visible light in a 10 vol% isopropanol (IPA) aqueous solution, and with the apparent quantum yield of 16.7% at 420 nm and the solar‐to‐chemical conversion efficiency of 0.34%. The work offers new insights into developing efficient photocatalysts for various applications.
Soil and weed management effects on floral hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) production and cannabinoid content
Authors: Jemison John M.
Published: June 2024

Many floral hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) growers rely on tillage and black plastic mulch to prepare soil for transplants, warm the soil, and control weeds. However, plastic waste and its high cost to growers drive the need for research to assess alternative weed and soil management practices. Experiments were conducted at two Maine locations in 2021 and 2022 to compare cover crop soil and weed management systems on hemp production, cannabinoid concentrations, and yield. Experimental treatments included (1) tilled raised bed‐black plastic mulch, (2) biweekly cultivation, (3) no weed control, and (4) mowed no‐till mowed winter rye (Secale cereale L. Aroostook). Experimental sites received twice the 30‐year monthly average rainfall in July and September 2021 leading to poorer production versus typical 2022 long‐term average rainfall. Ice damage reduced winter rye biomass in 2022 at University of Maine Rogers Farm, leading to several significant year by location and year by weed management interactions. Hemp grown in the no‐till winter rye mulch developed more slowly, produced lower yields, and had higher weed densities than cultivated or black plastic mulch treatments. Plant size, yield, and cannabinoid content were generally equivalent where weeds were controlled. Raised bed‐black plastic soil and weed management were most effective under excessively wet conditions to reduce soil moisture and improve drainage. Cannabinoid concentrations did not increase under high weed pressure, but cannabinoid yield was influenced by flower production, which was significantly lower in the mowed rye mulch and control treatments. Blending raised bed production with efficient cultivation warrants research attention.
Sustainable intensification of smallholder maize production in northern Ghana: The case of cowpea living mulch technology
Authors: Abdul Rahman Nurudeen , Larbi Asamoah , Kizito Fred , Kotu Bekele Hundie , Hoeschle‐Zeledon Irmgard
Published: June 2024

Several agricultural technologies have been promoted to intensify smallholder farming systems in Ghana, but there is limited literature on sustainability assessment of these technologies. A 2‐year (2017–2018) on‐farm study was conducted to evaluate the sustainability of using cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] living mulch (CPLM) technology to intensify smallholder maize (Zea mays L.) production in northern Ghana. Four treatments (control, CPLM planted with maize on the same day, CPLM planted 1 week after maize, and CPLM planted 2 weeks after maize) were laid in RCBD with four replications per treatment. We used Sustainable Intensification Assessment Framework (SIAF) to assess the sustainability of the above treatments based on five domains (productivity, economic, environment, human, and social). We conducted the assessment in the following three steps: (1) measured selected indicators from the five SIAF domains, which were useful to answering research question; (2) converted measured values of the indicators into scores using a scale of 0–1; and (3) calculated sustainability index using geometric rules considering each SIAF domain as an edge of a pentagon. The sustainability indices for the CPLM increased by 143%–300% compared with the control treatment. The sustainability indices for the CPLM were >1, indicating better sustainability relative to the control treatment, which recorded sustainability index of <1. This suggests that smallholder farmers in northern Ghana and similar agroecologies can intercrop cowpea 1–2 weeks after planting maize as living mulch for better sustainability of their maize production and well‐being through its effect on yield, income, food security, nutrition, and gender equity.
Simultaneous design of fermentation and microbe
Authors: Ziegler Anita L. , Manchanda Ashutosh , Stumm Marc‐Daniel , Blank Lars M. , Mitsos Alexander
Published: June 2024

Constraint‐based optimization of microbial strains and model‐based bioprocess design have been used extensively to enhance yields in biotechnological processes. However, strain and process optimization are usually carried out in sequential steps, causing underperformance of the biotechnological process when scaling up to industrial fermentation conditions. Herein, we propose the optimization formulation SimulKnock that combines the optimization of a fermentation process with metabolic network design in a bilevel optimization program. The upper level maximizes space‐time yield and includes mass balances of a continuous fermentation, while the lower level is based on flux balance analysis. SimulKnock predicts optimal gene deletions and finds the optimal trade‐off between growth rate and product yield. Results of a case study with a genome‐scale metabolic model of Escherichia coli indicate higher space‐time yields than a sequential approach using OptKnock for almost all target products considered. By leveraging SimulKnock, we reduce the gap between strain and process optimization.
Rational design of graphene biohydrogel as a modular platform for highly efficient starch‐to‐bioelectricity
Authors: Du Jia‐Xin , Liang Bo , Zhao Xing‐Ming , Sha Chong , Liu Aihua , Yong Yang‐Chun
Published: June 2024

Chemical‐to‐bioelectricity by using different biocatalysts was considered as a next‐generation green power source. However, bioelectricity production using macromolecular substrate usually encountered low Coulombic efficiency (CE) and power density due to inefficient electron releasing and sluggish electron collection. Here, a rationally engineered biocascade (including depolymerization module, fermentation module, and electro‐respiration module) embedded in highly conductive 3D graphene hydrogel (electron collection module) was designed and fabricated as a modular platform to simultaneously improve the substrate degradation, enhance the electron releasing and reinforce the electron collection. As a result, this modular platform enabled a ~15‐fold improvement on power density and reached the highest CE (46.3%) and power density (780 mW/m2) ever reported for bioelectricity production from starch (a model macromolecular substrate). This work demonstrated a promising approach for rationally harvesting bioelectricity with complicated substrates, which would open up a new avenue for practical applications.
Unpaid overtime and mental health in the Canadian working population
Authors: Shahidi Faraz Vahid , Tracey Matthew , Gignac Monique A. M. , Oudyk John , Smith Peter M.
Published: June 2024

Background

Unpaid overtime—describing a situation where extra hours are worked but not paid for—is a common feature of the labor market that, together with other forms of wage theft, costs workers billions of dollars annually. In this study, we examine the association between unpaid overtime and mental health in the Canadian working population. We also assess the relative strength of that association by comparing it against those of other broadly recognized work stressors.

Methods

Data were drawn from a survey administered to a heterogeneous sample of workers in Canada (n = 3691). Generalized linear models quantified associations between unpaid overtime, stress, and burnout, distinguishing between moderate (1−5) and excessive (6 or more) hours of unpaid overtime.

Results

Unpaid overtime was associated with higher levels of stress and burnout. Relative to those working no unpaid overtime, men working excessive unpaid overtime were 85% more likely to report stress (prevalence ratios [PR]: 1.85, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.26−2.72) and 84% more likely to report burnout (PR: 1.84, 95% CI: 1.34−2.54), while women working excessive unpaid overtime were 90% more likely to report stress (PR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.32−2.75) and 52% more likely to report burnout (PR: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.12−2.06). The association of excessive unpaid overtime with mental health was comparable in magnitude to that of shift work and low job control.

Conclusions

Unpaid overtime may present a significant challenge to the mental health of working people, highlighting the potential role of wage theft as a neglected occupational health hazard.
Poly(Dibenzothiophene‐Terphenyl Piperidinium) for High‐Performance Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis
Authors: Zheng Wentao , He Lanlan , Tang Tang , Ren Rong , Lee Husileng , Ding Guoheng , Wang Linqin , Sun Licheng
Published: June 2024

The anion exchange membrane water electrolysis is widely regarded as the next‐generation technology for producing green hydrogen. The OH− conductivity of the anion exchange membrane plays a key role in the practical implementation of this device. Here, we present a series of Z−S‐x membranes with dibenzothiophene groups. These membranes contain sulfur‐enhanced hydrogen bond networks that link surrounding surface site hopping regions, forming continuous OH− conducting highways. Z−S‐20 has a high through‐plane OH− conductivity of 182±28 mS cm−1 and ultralong stability of 2650 h in KOH solution at 80 °C. Based on rational design, we achieved a high PGM‐free alkaline water electrolysis performance of 7.12 A cm−2 at 2.0 V in a flow cell and demonstrated durability of 650 h at 2 A cm−2 at 40 °C with a cell voltage increase of 0.65 mV/h.
Spin Symmetry Breaking‐Induced Hubbard Gap Near‐Closure in N‐Coordinated MnO2 for Enhanced Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Battery Performance
Authors: Wang Shiyu , Yao Shuyun , Dai Ningning , Fu Weijie , Liu Yuanming , Ji Kang , Ji Yingjie , Yang Jinghua , Liu Ruilong , Li Xiaoke , Xie Jiangzhou , Yang Zhiyu , Yan Yi‐Ming
Published: June 2024

Transition metal oxides (TMOs) are promising cathode materials for aqueous zinc ion batteries (ZIBs), however, their performance is hindered by a substantial Hubbard gap, which limits electron transfer and battery cyclability. Addressing this, we introduce a heteroatom coordination approach, using triethanolamine to induce axial N coordination on Mn centers in MnO2, yielding N‐coordinated MnO2 (TEAMO). This approach leverages the change of electronegativity disparity between Mn and ligands (O and N) to disrupt spin symmetry and augment spin polarization. This enhancement leads to the closure of the Hubbard gap, primarily driven by the intensified occupancy of the Mn eg orbitals. The resultant TEAMO exhibit a significant increase in storage capacity, reaching 351 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1. Our findings suggest a viable strategy for optimizing the electronic structure of TMO cathodes, enhancing the potential of ZIBs in energy storage technology.
Stochastic Sensing of Chloride Anions Using an α‐Hemolysin Pore with a semiaza‐Bambusuril Adapter
Authors: Reany Ofer , Romero‐Ruiz Mercedes , Khurana Raman , Mondal Pravat , Keinan Ehud , Bayley Hagan
Published: June 2024

Pores containing molecular adapters provide internal selective binding sites, thereby allowing the stochastic sensing of analytes. Herein, we demonstrate that semiaza‐bambusuril (BU) acts as a non‐covalent molecular adapter when lodged within the lumen of the wild‐type α‐hemolysin (WT‐αHL) protein pore. Because the bambusurils are recognized as anion receptors, the anion binding site within the adapter‐nanopore complex allows the detection of chloride anions, thus converting a non‐selective pore into an anion sensor.
Enhanced UV Nonlinear Optical Properties in Layered Germanous Phosphites through Functional Group Sequential Construction
Authors: Tian Yao , Zeng Wei , Dong Xuehua , Huang Ling , Zhou Yuqiao , Zeng Hongmei , Lin Zhien , Zou Guohong
Published: June 2024

This study pioneers a novel strategy for synthesizing solar‐blind ultraviolet (UV) nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals through functional groups sequential construction, effectively addressing the inherent trade‐offs among broad transmittance, enhanced second‐harmonic generation (SHG), and optimal birefringence. We have developed two innovative van der Waals layered germanous phosphites: GeHPO3, the first Ge(II)‐based oxide NLO crystal which exhibits a black phosphorus‐like structure, and K(GeHPO3)2Br, distinguished by its exceptional birefringence and graphene‐like structure. Significantly, GeHPO3 exhibits a remarkable array of NLO properties, including the highest SHG coefficient recorded among all NLO crystals for phase‐matching and generating 266 nm coherent light via quadruple frequency conversion. It delivers a potent SHG intensity, surpassing KH2PO4 (KDP) by 10.3 times at 1064 nm and β‐BaB2O4 by 1.3 times at 532 nm, complemented by a distinct UV absorption edge at 211 nm and moderate birefringence of 0.062 at 546 nm. Comprehensive theoretical analysis links these exceptional characteristics to the unique NLO‐active GeO34− units and the distinctive, highly ordered layered structures. Our findings deliver essential experimental insights into the development of Ge(II)‐based optoelectronic materials and present a strategic blueprint for engineering structure‐driven functional materials with customized properties.