bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiplicity and concentration of nontrivial solutions for Kirchhoff–Schrödinger–Poisson system with steep potential well
Authors: Shao Liuyang , Chen Haibo , Wang Yingmin
Published: August 2024

This article is about the following Kirchhoff–Schrödinger–Poisson system with steep potential well

where
are constants,
, and
. By using the variational principle, we overcome the difficulties caused by Poisson's term and obtain system (1.1) that has two nontrivial solutions under certain assumptions. Moreover, we study the concentration of solutions and obtain new conclusions of system (1.1). Finally, we present the case where the solution to system (1.1) does not exist.
Three‐dimensional radial echo‐planar spectroscopic imaging for hyperpolarized 13C MRSI in vivo
Authors: Awenius Marcel , Abeln Helen , Müller Melanie , Franke Vanessa L. , Rincon Gino , Glowa Christin , Schmitt Michaela , Bangert Renate , Ludwig Dominik , Schmidt Andreas B. , Kuder Tristan A. , Ladd Mark E. , Bachert Peter , Biegger Philipp , Korzowski Andreas
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To demonstrate the feasibility of 3D echo‐planar spectroscopic imaging (EPSI) technique with rapid volumetric radial k‐space sampling for hyperpolarized (HP) 13C magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) in vivo.

Methods

A radial EPSI (rEPSI) was implemented on a 3 T clinical PET/MR system. To enable volumetric coverage, the sinusoidal shaped readout gradients per k‐t‐spoke were rotated along the three spatial dimensions in a golden‐angle like manner. A distance‐weighted, density‐compensated gridding reconstruction was used, also in cases with undersampling of spokes in k‐space. Measurements without and with HP 13C‐labeled substances were performed in phantoms and rats using a double‐resonant 13C/1H volume resonator with 72 mm inner diameter.

Results

Phantom measurements demonstrated the feasibility of the implemented rEPSI sequence, as well as the robustness to undersampling in k‐space up to a factor of 5 without advanced reconstruction techniques. Applied to measurements with HP [1‐13C]pyruvate in a tumor‐bearing rat, we obtained well‐resolved MRSI datasets with a large matrix size of 123 voxels covering the whole imaging FOV of (180 mm)3 within 6.3 s, enabling to observe metabolism in dynamic acquisitions.

Conclusion

After further optimization, the proposed rEPSI method may be useful in applications of HP 13C‐tracers where unknown or varying metabolite resonances are expected, and the acquisition of dynamic, volumetric MRSI datasets with an adequate temporal resolution is a challenge.
Multiband accelerated 2D EPI for multi‐echo brain QSM at 3 T
Authors: Kiersnowski Oliver C. , Fuchs Patrick , Wastling Stephen J. , Nassar Jannette , Thornton John S. , Shmueli Karin
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Data for QSM are typically acquired using multi‐echo 3D gradient echo (GRE), but EPI can be used to accelerate QSM and provide shorter acquisition times. So far, EPI‐QSM has been limited to single‐echo acquisitions, which, for 3D GRE, are known to be less accurate than multi‐echo sequences. Therefore, we compared single‐echo and multi‐echo EPI‐QSM reconstructions across a range of parallel imaging and multiband acceleration factors.

Methods

Using 2D single‐shot EPI in the brain, we compared QSM from single‐echo and multi‐echo acquisitions across combined parallel‐imaging and multiband acceleration factors ranging from 2 to 16, with volume pulse TRs from 21.7 to 3.2 s, respectively. For single‐echo versus multi‐echo reconstructions, we investigated the effect of acceleration factors on regional susceptibility values, temporal noise, and image quality. We introduce a novel masking method based on thresholding the magnitude of the local field gradients to improve brain masking in challenging regions.

Results

At 1.6‐mm isotropic resolution, high‐quality QSM was achieved using multi‐echo 2D EPI with a combined acceleration factor of 16 and a TR of 3.2 s, which enables functional applications. With these high acceleration factors, single‐echo reconstructions are inaccurate and artefacted, rendering them unusable. Multi‐echo acquisitions greatly improve QSM quality, particularly at higher acceleration factors, provide more consistent regional susceptibility values across acceleration factors, and decrease temporal noise compared with single‐echo QSM reconstructions.

Conclusion

Multi‐echo acquisition is more robust for EPI‐QSM across parallel imaging and multiband acceleration factors than single‐echo acquisition. Multi‐echo EPI can be used for highly accelerated acquisition while preserving QSM accuracy and quality relative to gold‐standard 3D‐GRE QSM.
Accurate Estimation of Magnetic Moments in 4f and 3d Magnetic Ions
Authors: Mathiang Karlo Ayuel
Published: August 2024

We propose a method for calculating magnetic moments of 4f and 3d ions, applicable to both free ions and those within a crystal field. Based on angular momentum theory, this method provides efficient expressions for calculating magnetic moments. Applicable to individual electronic substates, it facilitates the selection and tuning of magnetic states in materials. Our method shows excellent agreement with published data for free 4f ions and offers efficient approximations for dilute 3d systems and single‐molecule magnets. We successfully validated our formulism by reproducing experimental results for Nd3⁺ in NdAl₂. Additionally, predicted moments for Fe2⁺ in FeF₂ agree well with our estimates and existing data, demonstrating the method's effectiveness for ions in crystals.
Optimal condition‐based parameter learning and mission abort decisions
Authors: Yang Li , Ma Yuhan , Wei Fanping , Qiu Qingan
Published: August 2024

Unexpected failures of safety‐critical systems during mission execution are not desirable in that they often result in severe safety hazards and significant financial losses. Prompt mission abort based on real‐time degradation data is an effective means to prevent such failures and enhance system safety. In this study, we focus on safety‐critical systems that experience cumulative shock degradation and fails when the degradation exceeds a failure threshold. Real‐time degradation measurements are obtained via sensor monitoring, which are stochastically related to the hidden degradation parameters that vary across components. We formulate the optimal mission risk control problem as a sequential abort decision‐making problem that integrates adaptive parameter learning, following which a dynamic Bayesian learning approach is exploited to sequentially infer the uncertain degradation parameters by utilizing real‐time sensor data. The problem is constituted as a finite horizon Markov decision process to minimize the expected costs associated with inspections, mission failures and system failures. We derive a series of structural properties of the value function and demonstrate the existence of optimal abort thresholds. In particular, we establish that the optimal policy follows a state‐dependent control limit policy. Additionally, we study the existence and monotonicity of control limits associated with both the number of inspections and degradation severities. We demonstrate the performance of the proposed risk management policy through comparative experiments that show substantial superiorities over risk‐induced loss control.
Research trends in nurse–parent partnership: A scoping review of the paediatric field in South Korea
Authors: Park Seo Jin , Yun Ji Yeong , Lee Jina , Cho In Young
Published: August 2024

Aim

To analyse and describe the trends concerning nurse–parent partnerships in South Korean research, presenting their implications in paediatric care and guiding future directions for partnership research.

Design

A scoping review.

Methods

The scoping review was conducted according to the framework outlined by Arksey and O'Malley. This review method consists of five stages: (1) identifying a research question, (2) identifying relevant studies, (3) selecting relevant studies, (4) charting the data extraction and (5) collating, summarizing and reporting the results. The studies reviewed were searched from electronic databases.

Results

Thirty studies were analysed for general characteristics, type of research method and findings from quantitative and qualitative research. Among the quantitative research, factors associated with partnerships, such as self‐efficacy, quality of care and coping, were commonly associated with nurse–parent partnerships regardless of parent‐, child‐ and nurse‐related factors. The intervention methods included active parental participation and the development of educational materials. In the review of qualitative research, parents and paediatric nurses experienced that even when both groups occupied the same environment simultaneously, a disparity existed between the paediatric nurses' and parents' perceptions of their partnership experiences.

Implications for the Profession

Strengthening nurse‐parent partnerships is crucial in improving health outcomes and quality of life for paediatric patients in South Korea. Effective collaboration, emphasizing mutual respect, effective communication, and shared decision‐making, is essential in paediatric nursing care. This requires ongoing research, including both parents and a multidisciplinary approach to build supportive relationships across various age groups. Recognizing parents as key members of the care team, with valuable insights and contributions, enhances care quality. Additionally, enhancing paediatric nurses' self‐efficacy, empowerment, and communication skills through continuous education is vital to improving parents' perceived quality of nursing. Partnership‐centred practices not only boost care quality but also fortify the bond between healthcare providers and families, promoting better health outcomes.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This work did not incorporate patient or public contributions, as its methodology was centred on a scoping review approach.
Quality of nursing care: Predictors of patient satisfaction in a national sample
Authors: Al‐Hammouri Fawzi , Hamdan Khaldoun M. , Haymour Abdullah M. , Ibrahim Malak O. , Malkawi Adeeb , Al‐Hiary Sakher S. , Albqoor Maha Alkaid , Shaheen Abeer M.
Published: August 2024

Aim

To assess patients' satisfaction with the quality of nursing care and the relationship between patients' characteristics and their level of satisfaction.

Design

A descriptive correlational cross‐sectional design was used in this study.

Methods

Convenient sampling was utilized to include 1014 inpatients from six hospitals in Jordan: three private hospitals; two governmental hospitals; and one university‐affiliated hospital. The data collection process occurred from September 2022 to January 2023. The data were collected using the Arabic version of the Patients' Satisfaction with Nursing Care Quality Questionnaire. The data were analysed using Pearson correlation, t‐test, one‐way ANOVA and multiple hierarchal regression.

Results

The study included 1014 patients with an average age of 51.3 (SD = 18.6), and 59.9% were females. More than two thirds of the sample reported having health insurance, and 62.7% were unemployed. The mean total score of patients' satisfaction with nursing care quality (NCQ) was 68.2 (SD = 12.9), indicating high satisfaction. Higher‐income levels (p < 0.001), higher education levels (p = 0.003), having health insurance (p < 0.001), being admitted to private hospitals (p < 0.001), being admitted to critical care units (p = 0.002), being in a single room (p = 0.001), excellent perceived health status (p < 0.001) and willingness to recommend the hospital to family and friends (p < 0.001) were significant predictors of patients' satisfaction with NCQ.

Conclusions

Patient and hospital environment characteristics affected patients' satisfaction with NCQ. Hospital management should consider these characteristics to improve patient satisfaction and outcomes.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Policymakers and hospital management should consider improving the physical environment of their facilities to improve patients' satisfaction. Continuous professional development should emphasize nurses' communication skills to enhance their abilities to deliver information to their patients.

Impact

This study examined levels and predictors of patients' satisfaction with the quality of nursing care. The results indicated that improving patients' satisfaction can be achieved by focusing on areas of nurses' communication skills and explaining information to patients.

Reporting Method

The study adhered to STORBE guidelines for reporting observational studies.

Patient or Public Contribution

Hospitalized patients contributed to the data of this study. Hospital administrators facilitated its implementation.
The Relationships among communication competence, professional autonomy and clinical reasoning competence in oncology nurses
Authors: Noh Suyeon , Kang Younhee
Published: August 2024

Aims

To investigate the relationships among communication competence, professional autonomy and clinical reasoning and to identify the factors that influence clinical reasoning competence in oncology nurses.

Design

Cross‐sectional descriptive design.

Methods

Participants included 147 oncology nurses with more than a year of clinical experience in cancer wards. The Global Interpersonal Communication Competence Scale, Schutzenhofer Professional Autonomy Scale and Nurses Clinical Reasoning Scale (NCRS) were used to collect data. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent t‐test, one‐way ANOVA, Pearson correlation analysis and hierarchical multiple regression analysis.

Results

Communication competence (r = 0.59) and professional autonomy (r = 0.46) showed significant positive relationships with clinical reasoning competence. Clinical experience, communication competence, age and professional autonomy were statistically significant predictors and explained 48.6% of clinical reasoning competence.

Conclusions

The clinical reasoning competence of oncology nurses increases proportionally with their communication competence and professional autonomy. Therefore, oncology nurses must reinforce their communication competence and professional autonomy to enhance their clinical reasoning competence.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The reinforcement of communication competence and professional autonomy is necessary for oncology nurses to enhance their clinical reasoning competence. In order to improve nurses' communication competence, practical‐focused communication education programmes must be designed and deployed systematically and periodically. In addition, to increase nurses' professional autonomy, it is necessary to expand their clinical experiences through the regular rotation of working units and to make institutional efforts to retain experienced nurses.

Reporting Method

We have adhered to STROBE checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

Participants in the study were recruited online. They were informed of the study's purpose, method and usability and the survey could only be conducted if they consented to participate voluntarily.
Does terminology matter when measuring stigmatizing attitudes about weight? Validation of a brief, modified attitudes toward obese persons scale
Authors: Martin‐Wagar Caitlin A. , Melcher Katelyn A. , Attaway Sarah E. , Bennett Brooke L. , Thompson Connor J. , Kronenberger Oscar , Penwell Taylor E.
Published: August 2024

Objective

Commonly used terms like “obese person” have been identified as stigmatizing by those with lived experience. Thus, this study sought to revise a commonly used measure of weight stigmatizing attitudes, the Attitudes Toward Obese Persons (ATOP) scale.

Methods

The original terminology in the 20‐item ATOP (e.g., “obese”) was compared to a modified version using neutral terms (e.g., “higher weight”). Participants (N = 832) were randomized to either receive the original or modified ATOP.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference, with a small effect size (d = −0.22), between the scores of participants who received the original ATOP (M = 69.25) and the modified ATOP (M = 72.85), t(414) = −2.27, p = 0.024. Through principal component analysis, the modified ATOP was best used as a brief, 8‐item unidimensional measure. In a second sample, confirmatory factor analysis verified the fit of the brief, 8‐item factor structure.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that a modified, brief version of the ATOP (ATOP‐Heigher Weight; ATOP‐HW) with neutral language is suitable for assessing negative attitudes about higher‐weight people. The ATOP‐HW may slightly underestimate weight stigma compared to the original ATOP, or the language in the ATOP may magnify negative attitudes. Further examination of the terminology used in weight stigma measures is needed to determine how to best assess weight stigma without reinforcing stigmatizing attitudes. The present study's findings suggest that the use of neutral terms in measures of anti‐fat bias is a promising solution that warrants further investigation.
Building the Empirical Puzzle on Impact of Macroeconomic Determinants on GST Revenue: An Empirical Investigation via ARDL Bound Test Perspective
Authors: Garg Shubham , Narwal Karam Pal , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: August 2024

The revenue mobilization remains a challenge for many countries, especially developing countries such as India. Therefore, this study explores the macroeconomic determinants of Goods and Service Tax (GST) revenue of the government in India as GST constitutes a major share in the Own Tax Revenue (OTR) of the government in India. The current study has employed the Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model to examine the macroeconomic determinants of GST taxation revenue of the government in India. The results reveal that foreign direct investment, depreciation in the exchange rate and foreign exchange reserves have a favorable impact on the GST revenue of the government in India. Furthermore, the gross fiscal deficits of the government and inflation have a detrimental effect on the GST revenue collection of the government in India. The results of the study are supported by the Tanzi effect and the Tanzi–Olivera effect for the detrimental effect of inflation and gross fiscal deficit on the GST revenue of the government in India. The current study has major policy implications for the government, policymakers, and researchers. The empirical results illustrates that the government may put a stringent check on inflation and gross fiscal deficit of the country to improve their GST collections. Moreover, the government should try to focus on foreign direct investment, trade openness, and foreign exchange reserve in India to increase their GST revenue. Meanwhile, the current study can be used as a base for conducting future studies at national and international levels for examining the determinants of other taxation revenue of the government by incorporating other country specific variables. This study may act as a novel contribution to the available literature on the macroeconomic determinants of taxation revenue in India. To the knowledge, it will be the first study in India to especially explore the determinants of GST revenue of the government in India. However, the findings of the study need to be generalize in future by incorporating a larger sample size as GST is still in its introductory phase in India.
Novel experimental approach to evaluate silica–elastomer interactions of vulcanizates
Authors: Jia Weijie , Lin Feifei , Li Zhibo , Zhang Hao , Liu Feng , Yang Yan
Published: August 2024

The importance of the silica–polymer interaction in enhancing the performance of green tires is well recognized. However, there has been a lack of a standardized method to accurately characterize this interaction in vulcanizates. This paper introduces a new methodology for characterizing the interaction between polymer and silica, focusing on the impact of filler loading, coupling agents, and amount of sulfur on this interaction. The methodology is based on equilibrium swelling experiments. Conducting the swelling test in an ammonia atmosphere facilitates the elimination of physical interactions. Consequently, the resulting crosslink density predominantly encompasses that of the rubber matrix and the chemical silica–polymer interaction. Treatment of vulcanizates with hydrofluoric acid serves to nullify the chemical interaction between silica and rubber. Following this process, the equilibrium swelling test enables the determination of the crosslink density of the rubber matrix. As such, the disparity between the crosslink densities obtained after ammonia and after the hydrofluoric acid treatment signifies the chemical interaction between the polymer and silica. The findings revealed that the polymer–silica interaction facilitated by the coupling agent bis[3‐(triethoxysilyl)propyl]tetrasulfide (TESPT) exhibited a notably higher magnitude compared to that enabled by the coupling agent bis[3‐(triethoxysilyl)propyl]disulfide. Moreover, the silica–polymer interaction demonstrated a positive correlation with both silica/TESPT loading and sulfur content. It is worth noting that this paper provides one solution and theoretical basis for calculating polymer–filler interactions in crosslinked composites by dissolving fillers.

Highlights

Experimental method for quantitative evaluation of silica–polymer interaction.

The method can also be applied to crosslinked polymer/nanofiller composites.

TESPT is a more potent silane than TESPD, even sulfur is compensated.

Polymer–filler interaction is deeply affected by polysulfide‐polymer reaction.
Expression of a mammalian RNA demethylase increases flower number and floral stem branching in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Markel Kasey , Waldburger Lucas , Shih Patrick M.
Published: August 2024

RNA methylation plays a central regulatory role in plant biology and is a relatively new target for plant improvement efforts. In nearly all cases, perturbation of the RNA methylation machinery results in deleterious phenotypes. However, a recent landmark paper reported that transcriptome‐wide use of the human RNA demethylase FTO substantially increased the yield of rice and potatoes. Here, we have performed the first independent replication of those results and demonstrated broader transferability of the trait, finding increased flower and fruit count in the model species Arabidopsis thaliana. We also performed RNA‐seq of our FTO‐transgenic plants, which we analyzed in conjunction with previously published datasets to detect several previously unrecognized patterns in the functional and structural classification of the upregulated and downregulated genes. From these, we present mechanistic hypotheses to explain these surprising results with the goal of spurring more widespread interest in this promising new approach to plant engineering.
Theta‐curves in proteins
Authors: Dabrowski‐Tumanski Pawel , Goundaroulis Dimos , Stasiak Andrzej , Rawdon Eric J. , Sulkowska Joanna I.
Published: August 2024

We study and characterize the topology of connectivity circuits observed in natively folded protein structures whose coordinates are deposited in the Protein Data Bank (PDB). Polypeptide chains of some proteins naturally fold into unique knotted configurations. Another kind of nontrivial topology of polypeptide chains is observed when, in addition to covalent bonds connecting consecutive amino acids in polypeptide chains, one also considers disulfide and ionic bonds between non‐consecutive amino acids. Bonds between non‐consecutive amino acids introduce bifurcation points into connectivity circuits defined by bonds between consecutive and nonconsecutive amino acids in analyzed proteins. Circuits with bifurcation points can form θ‐curves with various topologies. We catalog here the observed topologies of θ‐curves passing through bridges between consecutive and non‐consecutive amino acids in studied proteins.
Clinical results of definitive radiotherapy for local recurrent kimura disease in the head and neck after surgery: A retrospective study
Authors: Lv Wenlong , Li Shan , Liu Feng , Xue Wangui , Guo Feibao , Hong Jinsheng
Published: August 2024

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of definitive radiotherapy in selected patients with local recurrence of Kimura disease of the head and neck after surgery.

Methods

This retrospective study collected the clinical data of 14 patients with postoperative recurrence of Kimura disease of the head and neck who received definitive radiotherapy at the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University between 2006 and 2022. The radiation dose ranged from 28 to 40 Gy. Its efficacy and safety were analyzed.

Results

During follow‐up, ranging from 17 to 168 months, local control was achieved in 13 (92.9%) of the 14 patients with postoperative recurrence. There were no serious late toxicities except for mild xerostomia in four (28.6%) patients; the patients’ peripheral blood eosinophil count dropped from 1.73×109/L before treatment to 0.42×109/L after treatment, and the eosinophil percentage dropped from 20.64% to 9.78%. Both changes were statistically significant (p<0.001).

Conclusions

The findings of the study suggest that definitive radiotherapy is a viable and effective alternative to repeated surgery for managing recurrent Kimura disease of the head and neck, with significant response rates and a good safety profile. Peripheral blood eosinophil counts and percentages serve as simple and reliable biomarkers for monitoring Kimura disease progression and treatment responses.
Modified Cotton Sorbent for Removing Crude Oil Pollution From Water: Sorption Kinetic Study
Authors: Zibaei Saeed , Tabatabaei Ghomsheh Seyed Mostafa , Mirzaei Masoumeh , Azimi Alireza
Published: August 2024

This research marks an advancement in the field of environmental remediation by introducing a novel sorbent material tailored for the efficient removal of crude oil from industrial wastewater. By focusing on the modification of cotton fibers with charcoal and bentonite, the study addresses the pressing need for sustainable solutions to oil contamination in aquatic environments. Through a comprehensive array of characterization techniques including FT‐IR, TGA, XRD, SEM, EDS, and BET analysis, the structural and surface properties of the modified materials were thoroughly examined, providing insights into their suitability for practical applications. Sorption studies conducted to determine sorption capacity, optimize sorbent amount, and evaluate the effect of contact time on removal efficiency yielded favorable results, highlighting the potential of the developed sorbents to effectively treat crude oil in aqueous solutions. Additionally, the investigation of sorption kinetics using pseudo‐first‐order, pseudo‐second‐order, and intra‐particle diffusion models elucidated the underlying adsorption mechanisms governing the interaction between the sorbent and crude oil molecules. These findings not only contribute to the scientific understanding of sorption processes but also offer practical guidance for the development of optimized sorbent materials and remediation strategies. Overall, this study represents a significant step toward the development of cost‐effective and environmentally friendly methods for oil spill cleanup and industrial wastewater treatment, with implications for sustainable water management practices worldwide. Continued research efforts in this direction hold promise for further advancements in the field, potentially leading to more efficient and scalable solutions for addressing the global challenge of oil contamination in water environments.
Adaptive event‐triggered lateral control for autonomous vehicle system under stochastic‐sampling subject to dynamic quantization
Authors: Jiang Wenke , Luo Mengzhuo , Cheng Jun , Katib Iyad , Shi Kaibo
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we delve into the intricate problem of lateral control in autonomous vehicles, utilizing adaptive event triggering, dynamic quantizers, and incorporating stochastic sampling. By integrating the Adaptive Event‐Triggering Scheme (AETS) and dynamic quantizer in dual channels—namely the sensor‐to‐controller and controller‐to‐observer channels—we aptly cater to the multifaceted road conditions faced by autonomous vehicles. Moreover, in light of Denial of Service (DoS) attacks, our controllers ensure system stability amidst stochastic sampling. While ensuring an effective reduction in the amount of network communication data, the efficiency of the output feedback controllers is also significantly improved, thus enabling the closed‐loop system to be strictly dissipative performance stabilized. To substantiate the efficacy of our proposed method, simulation experiments were rigorously conducted using the Carsim‐Simulink platform, highlighting the enhanced safety of autonomous vehicles in real‐world operations.
Soil chemical properties affecting grain yield and oil content of crambe biofuel crop
Authors: de Marins Araceli Ciotti , Secco Deonir , Ruffato Guilherme Gabriel , Bassegio Doglas , Tiruneh Gizachew Ayalew , Reichert José Miguel
Published: August 2024

Crambe (Crambe abyssinica Hochst) is an important grain crop for biodiesel production. The objective of this study was to evaluate how spatial distribution of soil properties affects crambe grain yield and oil content. We analyzed six different sampling densities, with a distance between sampling points ranging from 5.5 to 44 m, to identify correlations among soil and crop variables, and the best spatial distribution. Crambe oil content was not correlated to any of the physicochemical properties, whereas crambe grain yield was correlated with total porosity and exchangeable Al and Ca, effective cation exchange capacity, available P, K, Cu, and Zn, and aluminum and base saturation, with highly significant correlation (p < 0.001) for P and K and Cu and Zn. Most soil properties had spatial dependence degrees from weak to strong, and were modeled by spherical or exponential semi‐variograms. Spatial data showed that low grain yield is associated with high seed oil content, while crambe grain yield was more correlated with phosphorous availability in soil in the first year (2012) and with Ca, Mg, and soil organic matter in the second year (2013). Spatial variability in soil nutrients is attributed to uneven distribution of fertilizers and surface runoff. The results demonstrate sampling density must be increased to generate more accurate maps for soil chemical properties affecting crambe. The use of a grid of 25 points in a 625 m2 of land is suggested, providing more than 60% accuracy for grain yield estimation and more than 40% for most chemical properties’ estimation.
Fruit Peel Derived Carbon Dots for Improved Curcumin Delivery: A Promising Strategy for Enhanced Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Patel Pinkesh J. , Gupte Shilpa , Naik Raj , Kailasa Suresh Kumar , Jha Sanjay , Patel Sejal B. , Mehta Vaibhavkumar N.
Published: August 2024

Curcumin, known for its proapoptotic, chemo‐preventive, chemo‐therapeutic, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties, suffers from poor bioavailability, limiting its applications. This study aims to enhance curcumin's bioavailability using carbon dots (CDs) synthesized from fruit peels as a novel nano formulation. CDs were synthesized via hydrothermal synthesis using banana and orange peels as carbon sources, and functionalized with curcumin to improve its solubility and cellular uptake. The synthesis and functionalization of CDs were confirmed using Fluorescence spectrophotometer, FT‐IR, and HR‐TEM. The curcumin‐loaded CDs exhibited superior antimicrobial activity, with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 22 μg/mL for Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), 11 μg/mL for Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis), and 22 μg/mL for Bacillus cereus (B. cereus). Additionally, the developed CDs demonstrated enhanced antioxidant activity compared to curcumin in DMSO. The findings indicate that curcumin‐loaded CDs significantly increase the biological activity of curcumin, offering a promising approach for its incorporation into functional foods, beverages, and pharmaceutical products. This study highlights the novel use of CDs to overcome the bioavailability issues of water‐insoluble bioactive compounds like curcumin, presenting a significant advancement in nano‐formulation technology.
Preparation of Light‐Diffusing Materials Combined with High Transmittance and High Haze–Comparing the Effectiveness of Diameter and Refractive Index
Authors: Ouyang Xing , Lei Shuai , Tang Xiao , Chen Dazhu
Published: August 2024

Preparing light‐diffusing material (LDM) combined with high haze and high transmittance has a significant value, but it is a challenge for the industry. The refractive index and diameter of light‐diffusing particles are the main factors. Two series of silicone microspheres with different diameters and refractive indices were prepared through precipitation polymerization and applied in LDM. The morphology of particles and LDM were investigated by scanning electron microscope. The corresponding thermal stability was studied by a thermal gravimetric analyzer. Furthermore, the influence of diameter and refractive index on light‐diffusing properties was explored systematically. The results show that the silicone particles have excellent thermal stability and can disperse evenly in a polycarbonate matrix. The corresponding LDM also has good thermal stability. It is the diameter, not the refractive index, acting as the key factor in preparing LDM combined with high haze and high transmittance. When achieving the same haze, selecting an appropriate diameter can prepare LDM with higher transmittance than other diameters. Different refractive indices lead to similar transmittance and haze of LDMs, but the refractive index can markedly affect the loading of particles to achieve an expected light‐diffusing property. This research has aspiring guidance for the industry.
9‐Fluorenone Catalyzed Visible Light Oxidation of Hydrazides: An Efficient Route for the Synthesis of N,N′‐Diacylhydrazines Derivatives
Authors: Khobrekar Pritesh P. , Chari Vishnu R. , Bugde Sandesh T.
Published: August 2024

A visible light‐mediated oxidative coupling of hydrazides into corresponding N,N’‐ diacylhydrazines using a commercially available and low‐cost metal‐free photocatalyst was reported. The versatility of the reaction has been demonstrated across a broad spectrum of functional groups present in hydrazides. Interestingly, the developed methodology was utilized to synthesize symmetrical and unsymmetrical N,N’‐diacylhydrazines in moderate yields. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, along with control reactions and quenching studies, provide evidence supporting the proposed mechanism, favoring the photoredox pathway. Additionally, NMR and UV‐Vis studies confirmed the generation of H2O2 in the reaction mixture, which strengthens the proposed mechanism. To our knowledge, this is the first report for the conversion of hydrazides to N,N’‐diacylhydrazines using 9‐fluorenone as an organic photoredox catalyst.
Unveiling the Therapeutic Potential of Quinazolinone Derivatives in Cancer Treatment: A Comprehensive Exploration
Authors: Kaur Jasneet , Kaur Sukhmeet , Muskan  , Kaur Navneet , Kumar Vipan , Anand Amit
Published: August 2024

Quinazolinone derivatives have garnered attention for their diverse biological activities, including anticancer properties. This review combines findings from 2018 to 2024, focusing on the impact of quinazolinones on cancer cells, tubulin formation, and EGFR/PI3 K pathways. By unraveling the intricacies of structure‐activity relationships, this review endeavors to provide guidance for researchers in identifying promising avenues for the development of cancer treatments. Although in vitro studies underscore significant potential, it is imperative that future research prioritizes pre‐clinical investigations to seamlessly traverse the transitional phase towards clinical applications, thereby propelling the advancement of quinazolinone‐based cancer therapy.
Atomic Layer Deposition of γ‐Al2O3 on Hexagonal Boron Nitride: A Hybrid Support for Metallocene Catalysts
Authors: Mazhar Hassam , Shehzad Farrukh , Al‐harthi Mamdouh A.
Published: August 2024

Hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), also known as white graphene, has recently gained larger attention due to its unique physical and chemical properties. Owing to its excellent thermal conductivity and stability, hBN has been reported as an effective filler in many polymers. This study explores the potential of hBN as a catalyst support and filler for olefin polymerization. We report the atomic layer deposition (ALD) of γ‐Al2O3 on hydroxyl‐functionalized hBN. The alumina precursor, methylaluminoxane, showed high selectivity, depositing Al species only on the B‐OH sites, while B−O‐O−B sites remained unreacted. The hBN/γ‐Al2O3 hybrid was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X‐Ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The deposition of the aluminum over the hBN sheets was confirmed. The hBN/γ‐Al2O3 was used as a support for metallocene catalysts. The supported catalyst complex was highly active and produced ethylene‐propylene polymers with molecular weights up to 10 times higher, as demonstrated by gel permeation chromatography (GPC)
Boosting the Sodium‐Ion Storage Performance of Prussian Blue Analogs by Crystalline Regulation
Authors: Qie Liangliang , Chen Yiming , Wu Guiling , Zhang Xiaowen , Yu Jiage , Pi Yuqiang , Ding Yu , Wang Feng
Published: August 2024

In the development of practical sodium‐ion batteries, electrochemical performance and cost efficiency of the electrode materials are vital considerations. Prussian blue analogs (PBAs) have emerged as promising cathode materials due to their affordability, high theoretical capacity, and cycling stability. However, low crystallinity can negatively impact their performance. This study introduces a straightforward “chelating agent‐assisted” method for producing highly crystalline PBAs. The resulting cathode boasts excellent characteristics, including a high capacity of 150 mAh g−1, an initial Coulombic efficiency of 87.2 %, a long cycling lifespan of 1000 cycles, and superior rate performance. Furthermore, the study shows that the low structure distortion and high sodium diffusion coefficient can be attributed to the suppression of structural defects, as evidenced by in situ synchrotron powder diffraction. We believe these findings have the potential to enable the widespread use of PBAs in sodium‐ion batteries for an affordable and large‐scale energy storage system.
Synthesis, Conformational Properties and DFT Computational Studies of [3]Metacyclo[3](1,3)pyrenophanes
Authors: Islam Md. Monarul , Sharma Bigyan , Wang Chuan‐Zeng , Rahman Shofiur , Alodhayb Abdullah N. , Georghiou Paris E. , Elsegood Mark R. J. , Yamato Takehiko
Published: August 2024

Two new 6,17‐di‐tert‐butyl‐[3]metacyclo[3](1,3)‐pyrenophane‐2,11‐diones 8 a–b were synthesized by the coupling reaction of 1,3‐bis(bromomethyl)‐7‐tert‐butylpyrene 5 with the corresponding TosMIC‐adducts 7 a–b in CH2Cl2 and water under phase‐transfer conditions, followed by acid treatment. Wolff–Kishner reduction of 8 a–b afforded in good yields the corresponding 6,17‐di‐tert‐butyl‐[3]metacyclo[3](1,3)‐pyrenophanes 9 a–b. The spectroscopic data of both 8 a and 8 b show that they adopt anti‐conformations. In contrast, both pyrenophanes 9 a and 9 b adopt syn‐conformations. Variable‐temperature 1H NMR studies were carried out to determine the conformational behavior of the pyrenophanes. A single crystal X‐ray structure of 8 a shows that it also has an anti‐conformation in the solid state. Density functional theory (DFT) computations of 8 a–b and 9 a–b were used to determine their energy‐minimized structures and the total energies of their different conformers.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Methyl Orange by Metal‐Tio2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Wei , Jiang Tuohong , Li Ning , Zhao Shiling , Zhao Yu
Published: August 2024

In this study, a series of transition metal‐doped TiO2 was prepared by a simple sol‐solvothermal method. Mix an ethanol solution of tetrabutyl titanate and metal nitrate solution to obtain a homogeneous sol, which is then subjected to solvothermal treatment. After calcination, the metal‐TiO2 naoncomposite was obtained. Selected transition metal precursors, including Cu, Fe, Ag, Cr, Co and Zn, were doped into TiO2 nanocatalysts to assess photocatalytic degradation activities. The results show that 1 mol % Ag−TiO2 photocatalyst has a larger specific surface area, a stable anatase phase and the narrowest forbidden band energy (3.00 eV). In photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) tests, 1 mol % Ag−TiO2 could reach 100 % decolourisation after 70 min and 75.43 % mineralisation after 90 min. ESR analysis confirmed that Ag doping significantly increased the content of ⋅O2− and ⋅OH for the TiO2 catalyst, which are responsible for the oxidation reactions and consequently degradation of pollutants. The photocatalytic degradation mechanism of MO was also proposed. The TOC analyses confirmed the mineralization of MO. The excellent thermal and chemical stability of 1 mol % Ag−TiO2 has also been demonstrated by thermogravimetric analysis and cycling experiments. Electrochemical tests have also demonstrated the excellent electrochemical properties of 1 mol % Ag−TiO2.
Lipid‐Coated Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for pH‐Responsive Release and Enhanced Anti‐Proliferative Activity of Piperlongumine Natural Product
Authors: Ishaniya Wickneswaran , Sugantharam Karnan , Subramani Muthuraman , Kumar Arumugam Madan , Gopinath Pushparathinam , Rajendran Saravanakumar , Ganeshpandian Mani
Published: August 2024

The incorporation of natural products into a suitable delivery system has the potential to augment their therapeutic effectiveness significantly. In this study, we demonstrate how silicasomes, a lipid‐coated mesoporous silica nanorods, influence the anticancer potency and release behaviour of the natural product. Piperlongumine (Pip), a natural product isolated from long pepper, is loaded into mesoporous silica nanorods (MSNRs) followed by a bilayer coating made of 1,2‐Dimyristoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (DMPC). The size and morphology of Pip‐loaded MSNRs (Pip@MSNRs) and phospholipid‐coated Pip@MSNRs (PL‐Pip@MSNRs) are characterized well using suitable analytical techniques. The release of Pip from Pip@MSNRs attained saturation at 48 h while PL‐Pip@MSNRs exhibited the same only after 100 h in both simulated physiological and endolysosomal acidic environments. Moreover, PL‐Pip@MSNRs displayed a higher percentage of Pip release in an acidic medium than in a physiological medium after 24 h. These results confirm that the DMPC coating could assist the pH‐responsive and sustained release of loaded drug from silica nanorods. Most importantly, PL‐Pip@MSNRs demonstrate a higher potency of cytotoxicity and apoptosis against MCF‐7 (Human Breast Carcinoma) cells than the Pip@MSNRs, emphasizing the significance of DMPC‐coated MSNRs as a suitable nanocarrier for natural product delivery.
Oxide Derivatives of Nb2CTx MXene and Their Application as Electron Transport Layers in Perovskite Solar Cells: Unraveling the Oxidation Process and Functionalization
Authors: Yang Lin , Liu Ziyan , Zheng Tianfang , Li Peng , Ma Jiangang , Zhang Xintong , Zhu Hancheng , Wang Xiao‐Feng , Liu Yichun
Published: August 2024

In the realm of photovoltaic research, 2D transition metal carbides (MXenes) have gained significant interest due to their exceptional photoelectric capabilities. However, the instability of MXenes due to oxidation has a direct impact on their practical applications. In this work, the oxidation process of Nb2CTx MXene in aqueous systems is methodically simulated at the atomic level and nanosecond timescales, which elucidates the structural variations influenced by the synergistic effects of water and dissolved oxygen, predicting a transition from metal to semiconductor with 44% C atoms replaced by O atoms in Nb2CTx. Moreover, Nb2CTx with varying oxidation degrees is utilized as electron transport layers (ETLs) in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Favorable energy level alignments with superior electron transfer capability are achieved by controlled oxidation. By further exploring the composites of Nb2CTx to its derivatives, the strong interaction of the nano‐composites is demonstrated to be more effective for electron transport, thus the corresponding PSC achieves a better performance with long‐term stability compared with the widely used ETLs like SnO2. This work unravels the oxidation dynamics of Nb2CTx and provides a promising approach to designing ETL by exploiting MXenes to their derivatives for photovoltaic technologies.
Temperature‐Sensitive Polymer‐Driven Nanomotors for Enhanced Tumor Penetration and Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Ma Beng , Yu Ying , Li Jiayi , Zhang Yunqi , Sun Bo , Ji Anqi , Song Kexing , Shi Linlin , Hu Hao , Gao Shegan , Cheng Haoyan
Published: August 2024

Self‐propelled nanomotors possess strong propulsion and penetration abilities, which can increase the efficiency of cellular uptake of nanoparticles and enhance their cytotoxicity against tumor cells, opening a new path for treating major diseases. In this study, the concept of driving nanomotors by alternately stretching and contracting a temperature‐sensitive polymer (TS‐P) chain is proposed. The TS‐Ps are successfully linked to one side of Cu2‐xSe@Au (CS@Au) nanoparticles to form a Janus structure, which is designated as Cu2‐xSe@Au‐polymer (CS@Au‐P) nanomotors. Under near‐infrared (NIR) light irradiation, Cu2‐xSe nanoparticles generate photothermal effects that change the system temperature, triggering the alternation of the TS‐P structure to generate a mechanical force that propels the motion of CS@Au‐P nanomotors. The nanomotor significantly improved the cellular uptake of nanoparticles and enhanced their penetration and accumulation in tumor. Furthermore, the exceptional photothermal conversion efficiency of CS@Au‐P nanomotors suggests their potential as nanomaterials for photothermal therapy (PTT). The prepared material exhibited good biocompatibility and anti‐tumor effects both in vivo and in vitro, providing new research insights into the design and application of nanomotors in tumor therapy.
Introducing Bi2S3 Interlayer to Synergistically Modify Mo Back Contact and Regulate Bulk Defects in Kesterite Solar Cells
Authors: Cui Guonan , Yang Yanchun , Bai Lulu , Wang Rui , Gong Zhihui , Cao Yongjun , Li Shuyu , Lv Xiaogong , Zhu Chengjun
Published: August 2024

A suitable interlayer between the Mo back electrode and kesterite absorber layer has been proven to have a positive effect on limiting the bulk defects of the absorber by the constitute diffusion. Here, a thin Bi2S3 layer is used as the back‐interface intermediate layer for the first time, this innovative approach allows for simultaneous modification of the back contact and reduction of bulk defects, resulting in improving the power conversion efficiency of the kesterite device from 9.66% to 11.8%. The evaporated Bi2O3 thin films turn into the Bi2S3 interlayers after sintering the Cu2ZnSnS4 precursor thin films. The Bi2S3 interlayer can inhibit the decomposition reaction of back contact and suppress the formation of the secondary phases. It can also optimize the Fermi level offset and promote the separation of the photoinduced carriers, resulting from its characteristic of high work function. Besides, a small part of the Bi element can diffuse into Cu2ZnSn(S, Se)4 film and induce the crystal growth and restrain Zn‐related defects, which is attributed to forming the low melting‐point liquid BiSex phase during the high‐temperature selenization process. The conclusions highlight the bifunction of the thin Bi2S3 intermediate layer, which can provide a new approach to improve the photoelectric conversion efficiency of kesterite solar cells.