bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Haunted by the past: How performing or withholding organizational citizenship behavior may lead to regret
Authors: Anderson Heather J. , Bolino Mark C.
Published: April 2022

Although organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs) contribute to the effective functioning of organizations, performing or withholding such behaviors can have both positive and negative implications for employees. In this conceptual paper, we explain why the outcomes associated with OCB, the discretionary nature of OCB, and the way feelings of regret affect future behavior make regret a useful perspective for understanding how OCB can be sustained. Further, we integrate theory and research on attribution and regret to propose that employees are most likely to experience regret when performing, or failing to perform OCB, leads to unexpected, negative outcomes. We also theorize that regret will be felt more strongly when these outcomes are severe, employees' decision to engage in (withhold) OCB was exceptional, employees' performance (withholding) of OCB was inconsistent with their orientation to act, and when the reason to engage in (withhold) OCB is difficult to justify. Altogether, our paper sheds light on when employees may regret performing OCB, when they may regret not engaging in OCB, and how such feelings may affect their willingness to be a good organizational citizen in the future. The implications of our propositions and directions for future research on regret and OCB are discussed.
A regional lightning climatology of the UK and Ireland and sensitivity to alternative detection networks
Authors: Hayward Leah , Whitworth Malcolm , Pepin Nick , Dorling Steve
Published: April 2022

A total lightning (cloud‐ground and cloud‐cloud) climatology of the UK and Ireland is presented combining three different ground‐based lightning location systems over a 12‐year period (2008–2019). The study area is divided into seven geographical regions using k‐means clustering to identify areas with distinctive seasonal distributions of lightning flashes per km2/year (referred to as flash density [FD]). Different regions exhibit contrasting summer thunderstorm seasons (e.g., from April to August in the southeast of England and May to July in southern England coastal regions). Summer FD peaks in July in the English Channel and southeast and midland areas of England range from 0.1 to 0.3 FD whilst the southern England coastal region sees FDs in the range 0.03–0.06 FD. Regions more prone to winter thunderstorms are identified as having northwest facing coastlines (<0.02 FD in Northwest Scotland). Diurnal lightning distributions are also shown to have regional dependence with stronger afternoon peaks over‐land (0.05–0.1 FD in the south of England), whilst in the South coastal and English Channel regions early morning or overnight peaks (0.03–0.09 FD) are more pronounced relative to afternoon FDs (0.015–0.03). This study has demonstrated the benefit of using multiple lightning detection networks to mitigate the effects of inhomogeneities within any one data source. It is also shown that significant additional insight comes from taking a regional approach to analysing temporal distributions of lightning.
Micro‐Raman spectroscopy on pigments of painted pre‐Islamic ceramics from the Kur River Basin (Fars Province, Iran): The case of manganese oxides identification
Authors: Vermeersch Eva , Pincé Possum , Jehlička Jan , Culka Adam , Rousaki Anastasia , Vandenabeele Peter
Published: April 2022

Micro‐Raman spectroscopy was used for the analysis of painted pre‐Islamic ceramics from the Kur River Basin (Fars Province, Southwest Iran). A total of 21 sherds were analysed dating from the Neolithic to the Late Bronze Age and belonging to different ceramic wares and sites. The main focus of this research was to identify the pigments used for the red and black decorations of the different ceramic wares from the Kur River Basin and to elaborate on the manganese identification and their differentiation through Raman spectroscopy. Haematite (
‐Fe2O3) and manganese oxides could be identified as the main compounds for the decoration in the different ceramic wares, except for the Bakun ware in which also carbon black could be determined as a probable pigment for black decoration using micro‐Raman spectroscopy. The identification and discrimination of manganese oxides were a meticulous task due to the sensitivity of these materials to the laser power, which can provoke degradation. Nevertheless, Raman spectroscopy was successfully applied for the identification of spectral patterns of the ceramics and their attribution to several manganese oxides present in the decorative mixtures, such as jacobsite (MnFe2O4), bixbyite (
‐Mn2O3) and hausmannite (Mn3O4).
Occurrence of ochratoxin A in green and roasted coffee beans from the Saudi market and a possible exposure assessment
Authors: Almasoud Yaser F. , Aldosari Zeyad M. , Almutairi Mohammed A. , Alowaifeer Abdullah M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Saudi Arabia is experiencing continuous growth and rising interest in the coffee industry. Coffee beans are known to be susceptible to mycotoxin contamination, especially to the toxin ochratoxin A (OTA). Previously data show that 94.4% of coffee beans from the Saudi market were contaminated with OTA. Since then, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has taken strong actions to limit the contamination of coffee with OTA. This work reports the investigation carried out to assess the current contamination status of coffee with OTA.

Results

The OTA was found in 28 samples (13.5% detection rate) in green coffee beans with an average concentration of 7.3 μg/kg. In contrast, roasted coffee had only four positive samples (4.5% detection rate) with a mean value of 3.4 μg/kg. The average daily dose (ADD) of ingested OTA by the Saudi population was estimated in three different scenarios. In the worst‐case scenario, estimated ADD (around 0.373 ng/kg bw/day) was below the provisional tolerable daily intake.

Conclusion

Our analytical data and risk assessment calculations suggest that there is no health risk to the Saudi population from exposure to OTA in coffee. In addition, the results of this study show that SFDA's measures were effective in reducing coffee contamination with OTA.
Carbon density and C‐sequestration of tree plantation ecosystems in the mid‐hills of the NW‐Himalayas: Implications for climate change mitigation
Authors: Bhardwaj Daulat Ram , Kumar Akshay , Pala Nazir A. , Sharma Prashant , Kumar Dhirender , Kumar Amit , Zahoor Shiba
Published: April 2022

In the current era of global warming, the Himalayan forests are under tremendous pressure due to intensified anthropogenic activity, resulting in the loss of forest diversity. However, the potential of carbon (C) sinks for increasing carbon storage and/or sequestration is still uncertain. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to examine the C‐sequestration and mitigation potential of eight different tree plantations, namely: Pinus roxburghii, Quercus leucotrichophora, Acacia mollissima, Acacia catechu, Alnus nitida, Albizia procera, Ulmus villosa, and Eucalyptus tereticornis in the mid‐hills of the Indian Himalayas. The soil samples used in our study  (humus, 0–20cm, 20–40cm, and 40–100 cm) were used to determine the soil and ecosystem C‐density. The analysis revealed that the maximum tree biomass (300.19 Mg ha−1), vegetation biomass (305.43 Mg ha−1), vegetation carbon (153.59 Mg ha−1), and total ecosystem C density (369.93 Mg ha−1) occurred under U. villosa plantation. Similarly, P. roxburghii plantations had the maximum detritus C‐density (7.25 Mg ha−1), whereas A. nitida (224.71 Mg ha−1) had the maximum soil C‐density. The highest C‐sequestration was recorded under U. villosa (183.0 Mg ha−1). A significantly higher and lower rate of C‐sequestration and CO2 mitigation was observed in Ulmus villosa (5.9 and 21.64 Mg ha−1 yr−1) and Eucalyptus tereticornis (3.9 and 14.3 Mg ha−1 yr−1). Our study found that indigenous tree species such as U. villosa, A. procera, A. nitida, and Q. leucotrichophora should be encouraged for afforestation on degraded lands to support climate change mitigation strategies in the sub‐temperate forest ecosystem.
Determination of the threshold velocity of soil wind erosion using a wind tunnel and its prediction for calcareous soils of Iran
Authors: Rezaei Mahrooz , Mina Monireh , Ostovari Yaser , Riksen Michel J. P. M.
Published: April 2022

Determination of the threshold velocity (TV) is a crucial step for wind erosion evaluation. Due to the difficulties of direct field measurements, pedotransfer functions (PTFs) and easily measurable soil properties could be used to save time and cost in predicting TV. Therefore, the present study was conducted to predict the TV using PTFs and to assess its influential parameters for calcareous soils of Fars Province, southern Iran. To this end, the TV was measured by a portable wind tunnel at 72 locations in different land uses and soil types across the study site. Various physicochemical and mechanical soil properties were used to develop six PTFs using multiple linear regression. Results showed that the TV varied from 3.0  m s−1in poor rangelands to 12.83 m s−1in saline lands. Soil surface shear strength (SS) with a correlation coefficient of 0.85 was the most influential parameter affecting the TV, followed by aggregate mean weight diameter (MWD). Results of the predictive models revealed that PTF 5, which was developed using SS and penetration resistance (PR;R2 = 0.86, RMSE = 0.85 m s−1), and PTF 6, which was developed using MWD and PR (R2 = 0.81, RMSE = 1.07 m s−1), had the highest performance for predicting the TV. PTF 5 was selected as the final model for predicting the TV since it only needed easily measurable soil properties without soil sample collection. We concluded that the use of PTFs could be an applicable alternative way to predict the TV, particularly at large scales.
The Eurasian crane (Grus grus) as an ecosystem engineer in grasslands: Conservation values, ecosystem services, and disservices related to a large iconic bird species
Authors: Valkó Orsolya , Borza Sándor , Godó Laura , Végvári Zsolt , Deák Balázs
Published: April 2022

Large bird species, such as cranes are involved in human‐wildlife conflicts as they often forage in croplands. The Eurasian crane (Grus grus) is a large bird species, protected across Europe, which, thanks to conservation programmes and its ability to utilise croplands for foraging, shows a strongly increasing population trend. This exaggerates the existing conflicts between crop farmers and cranes and is spilling over to natural habitats, where foraging by large flocks can lead to land degradation. No studies have evaluated the effects of foraging cranes on grasslands, despite the fact that these habitats provide important feeding grounds for cranes across their whole range. To fill this knowledge gap, we evaluated the ecosystem engineering effect of foraging Eurasian cranes on the vegetation of dry grasslands in Hungary. We used indicators of vegetation naturalness, forage quality, and floral resource provision to evaluate the ecosystem state from multiple aspects. We sampled 100 quadrats in disturbed patches and 100 in undisturbed grasslands in two seasons and 2 years (800 observations). Cranes created distinct vegetation patches with different species composition from undisturbed areas. We identified important trade‐offs between the positive and negative effects of the foraging activity of cranes on different structural and functional components of the ecosystems. The crane‐disturbed early‐successional patches increased plant diversity and floral resources but decreased the area of undisturbed grasslands. Although crane‐disturbed patches could provide forage for livestock early in the season, the forage quality became poor later in the year. We highlight the importance of monitoring the landscape‐level extent of the disturbed areas.
Aggregate stability and soil surface sealing in irrigated soils under no‐tillage versus conventional tillage
Authors: Grandinetti Luca , Cantero‐Martínez Carlos , Ramos María Concepción
Published: April 2022

The effect of no‐tillage (NT) (zero tillage) versus conventional tillage (CT) has been evaluated in rainfed conditions but has seldom been studied under irrigation, where soil sealing favours soil degradation. To contribute to this knowledge, this research analyses soil aggregate stability under disaggregation forces produced under irrigation (causing slaking and mechanical breakdown) and the susceptibility to soil sealing in soils cropped with irrigated maize. Soils were sampled from 0 to 2 and from 0 to 5 cm before maize planting. Soil aggregate stability against both disaggregation processes was expressed by the mean weight diameter (MWD). Soil organic carbon (SOC) was evaluated in aggregates of different size fractions that remained after the disaggregation processes. Soil sealing susceptibility was characterised by the saturated hydraulic conductivity. The results confirmed the high disruption effect of slaking and mechanical breakdown processes. The MWD under those processes was up to 50% smaller and the susceptibility to seal was about three times higher in the soils under CT than under NT. The results of the top 0–2 cm layer showed an aggregate stability against mechanical breakdown 30% smaller than the 0–5 cm layer, which could be due to the soil surface sealing caused by drop impact. Greater MWDs were related to higher SOC values in the aggregates, which were about 20% higher in the soils under NT than under CT. Thus, NT represents an effective management in irrigated soils, reducing soil sealing and helping to maintain greater aggregate stability in soil surface against the disaggregation forces caused by drop impact and wetting processes.
Multimetallic Metasurfaces for Enhanced Electrocatalytic Oxidations in Direct Alcohol Fuel Cells
Authors: Yalavarthi Rambabu , Yesilyurt Omer , Henrotte Olivier , Kment Štěpán , Shalaev Vladimir M. , Boltasseva Alexandra , Naldoni Alberto
Published: April 2022

Plasmonic metasurfaces enable unprecedented manipulation of light by using periodic arrangement of resonant unit cells or nanoantennas. Here, multimetallic metasurfaces made of self‐standing Ni/Au‐Pt nanostructured films are shown to significantly enhance an electrocatalytic oxidation reaction employed in direct alcohol fuel cells. The Ni/Au metasurfaces support photonic and plasmonic modes, which are leveraged for the site‐selective deposition of Pt electrocatalysts within the electromagnetic hot spots, where their reactivity can be strongly increased. The enhanced electrocatalytic activity for the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) is primarily attributed to electronic effects due to the excitation of hot charge carriers and plasmonic near fields, as supported by electromagnetic simulations and kinetic isotopic experiments. Wavelength‐dependent photoelectrochemical investigations suggest that Ni/Au‐Pt metasurfaces enhances MOR over a broad spectral range and favors different light‐induced reaction mechanisms depending on the selected energy window.
Novel Near‐Infrared Fluorescent Nanoprobe Synthesized by the RAFT‐Mediated PISA Strategy for Hypoxia‐Triggered Tumor Imaging and Azoreductase‐Responsive Drug Release
Authors: Wang Shuyuan , Wang Yuqing , Lei Huali , Li Lishan , Cheng Liang , Zhou Nianchen , Zhang Wei , Zhang Zhengbiao , Zhu Xiulin
Published: April 2022

Drug carriers and visual tracking play an important role in accurate and efficient drug delivery systems for targeted drug therapy. Polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA), a powerful strategy for the fabrication of stimuli‐responsive polymeric nanoparticles has been a focus over the past decade due to its promising applications in biomedical fields such as targeted drug delivery and fluorescent nanoprobes used for tumor imaging. Herein, hypoxia‐responsive near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescent nanoprobes of amphiphilic block copolymers (PPEGMA14‐ADP‐Azo‐PBzMAx) are reported, the first example synthesized by RAFT‐mediated PISA strategy in situ to realize synchronous drug release and cell imaging. First, a series of nanoparticles with different morphologies and sizes, including spheres and vesicles, are synthesized by the PISA strategy using PPEGMA14‐ADP‐Azo‐CDPA as macro‐RAFT agents link with near‐infrared Aza‐BODIPY fluorogen and azobenzene groups. Hypoxia‐triggered dissociation of the nanoprobes and NIR fluorescence emission is then observed because of the cleavage of azo bonds. Meanwhile, the in situ DOX‐loaded nanoprobes by the PISA demonstrate synchronous drug release and NIR fluorescence enhancement against mouse colon cancer cells (CT26) under hypoxia (1% O2) compared with under normoxia (16% O2).
Composite Aerogel of Electropolymerized Polyaniline and SWCNTs with High Thermoelectric Performance
Authors: Yin Sixing , Wu Xin , Wang Ruoyuan , Guo Cun‐Yue
Published: April 2022

Aerogels are promising in the preparation of high‐performance thermoelectric (TE) materials due to their ultralow thermal conductivity. However, the TE performance of aerogels remains unsatisfactory. Herein, polyaniline/single‐walled carbon nanotubes (PANI/SWCNT) composite aerogel with high thermoelectric performance is synthesized through dynamic three‐phase interfacial electrochemical polymerization of aniline and subsequent physical mixing of PANI with SWCNTs followed by liquid nitrogen quenching and freeze‐drying. By adjusting the content of SWCNTs, the PANI/SWCNT aerogel (50 wt% SWCNTs) achieves a high power factor (PF) of 73.33 ± 2.03 µW m−1 K−2. The ultralow thermal conductivity of around 2.30 × 10−2 W m−1 K−1 for the composite aerogel is superior to that of most conventional organic TE materials, rendering an excellent figure of merit (ZT) value of ≈0.95 at room temperature and great potential in improving TE performance of organic and organic/inorganic composites. Thermal treatment of the composite aerogel further enhances the PF to 96.28 ± 1.89 µW m−1 K−2. This work provides an effective method in the formation of PANI/SWCNT TE composites and it puts forward insights into the preparation of other high‐performance TE composites.
Copolymerization of Aniline, Melamine and p‐Phenylenediamine for Enhanced Pseudocapacitance Hydrogel Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: Zhang Xuemei , Gao Chen , Zhang Yulin , Wang Xiangdong , Duan Yuhan , Peng Jun , Luo Ping , Peng Yinjie , Wang Xiaoyu , Wang Shisen , Ran Rong
Published: April 2022

A novel double‐crosslinked 3D network hydrogel, poly(aniline‐co‐p‐phenylenediamine‐co‐melamine) (PD2M4) is synthesized through the chemical oxidative copolymerization of aniline, melamine, and p‐phenylenediamine, and its properties are compared with those of polyaniline (PANI), poly(aniline‐co‐p‐phenylenediamine) (PPDA2), and poly(aniline‐co‐melamine) (PMA4) hydrogels. The morphologies, mechanical properties, and chemical compositions of the hydrogels are investigated by nitrogen physisorption, rheological test, microscopic measurements, and spectroscopic techniques, while electrochemical techniques are used to evaluate their electrochemical performances. In accordance with PANI, PPDA2, and PMA4 hydrogels, the PD2M4 hydrogel exhibited an interconnected long nanofiber structure that encouraged the diffusion of electrolyte ions. Its double‐crosslinked 3D network and high nitrogen‐doping content (6.3 at. %) offered synergistic effects that generated an impressive pseudocapacitance of 657 F g −1 at 0.2 A g−1, a superior rate capability of 72% retention at a high current density of 30 A g−1, and good cyclic stability of 62% after 2000 charge/discharge cycles. The present work, therefore, provides a novel copolymerization strategy for N‐doping and hierarchical network structure to enhance the electrochemical performances of PANI hydrogel electrodes in supercapacitor applications.
An Overview of Self‐Healable Polymers and Recent Advances in the Field
Authors: El Choufi Nadim , Mustapha Samir , Tehrani B. Ali , Grady Brian P.
Published: April 2022

The search for materials with better performance, longer service life, lower environmental impact, and lower overall cost is at the forefront of polymer science and material engineering. This has led to the development of self‐healing polymers with a range of healing mechanisms including capsular‐based, vascular, and intrinsic self‐healing polymers. The development of self‐healable systems has been inspired by the healing of biological systems such as skin wound healing and broken bone reconstruction. The goal of using self‐healing polymers in various applications is to extend the service life of polymers without the need for replacement or human intervention especially in restricted access areas such as underwater/underground piping where inspection, intervention, and maintenance are very difficult. Through an industrial and scholarly lens, this paper provides: a) an overview of self‐healing polymers; b) classification of different self‐healing polymers and polymer‐based composites; c) mechanical, thermal, and electrical analysis characterization; d) applications in coating, composites, and electronics; e) modeling and simulation; and f) recent development in the past 20 years. This review highlights the importance of healable polymers for an economically and environmentally sustainable future, the most recent advances in the field, and current limitations in fabrication, manufacturing, and performance.
Chemical Modification for the “Off‐/On” Regulation of Enzyme Activity
Authors: Yu Huaibin , Feng Jiayi , Zhong Fangrui , Wu Yuzhou
Published: April 2022

Enzymes with excellent catalytic performance play important roles in living organisms. Advances in strategies for enzyme chemical modification have enabled powerful strategies for exploring and manipulating enzyme functions and activities. Based on the development of chemical enzyme modifications, incorporating external stimuli‐responsive features—for example, responsivity to light, voltage, magnetic force, pH, temperature, redox activity, and small molecules—into a target enzyme to turn “on” and “off” its activity has attracted much attention. The ability to precisely control enzyme activity using different approaches will greatly expand the chemical biology toolbox for clarification and detection of signal transduction and in vivo enzyme function and significantly promote enzyme‐based disease therapy. This review summarizes the methods available for chemical enzyme modification mainly for the off‐/on control of enzyme activity and particularly highlights the recent progress regarding the applications of this strategy.
Comparative genomic analysis of Thermus provides insights into the evolutionary history of an incomplete denitrification pathway
Authors: Jiao Jian‐Yu , Lian Zheng‐Han , Li Meng‐Meng , Salam Nimaichand , Zhou En‐Min , Liu Lan , Ming Hong , Nie Guoxing , Shu Wensheng , Zhao Guoping , Hedlund Brian P. , Li Wen‐Jun
Published: April 2022

Impact statement

For decades, Thermus was always considered to be aerobic. However, recent studies have suggested that the denitrification abilities of Thermus species may be widely underestimated. In the present study, we used comparative genomic analysis to investigate the evolutionary history of the denitrification pathway in Thermus and other members of the phylum Deinococcota. We revealed incomplete denitrification pathways to be common in Thermus and showed they are inherited mostly vertically, which further supports the importance of Thermus as a significant denitrifier in hydrothermal environments.
Current survey of Clifford geometric algebra applications
Authors: Hitzer Eckhard , Lavor Carlile , Hildenbrand Dietmar
Published: April 2022

We extensively survey applications of Clifford Geometric algebra in recent years (mainly 2019–2022). This includes engineering; electric engineering; optical fibers; geographic information systems; geometry; molecular geometry; protein structure; neural networks; artificial intelligence; encryption; physics; signal, image, and video processing; and software.
Reliability‐based topology optimization of continuum structure under buckling and compliance constraints
Authors: Guo Liangbing , Wang Xuan , Meng Zeng , Yu Bo
Published: April 2022

Buckling failure mainly occurs in slender rod structure under pressure, which incurs great concern and should be addressed in topology optimization (TO). However, due to the internal defects of material and the external environment interference of engineering system, the practical engineering structure inevitably produces many uncertain factors in the manufacturing and service stages. Therefore, a reliability‐based topology optimization (RBTO) model under buckling and compliance constraints is established to operate the structural lightweight design considering reliability and stability requirements. To reduce the number of probabilistic constraints, the Kreisselmeier–Steinhauser aggregation function is adopted for combining the multiple constraints into a single smooth and differentiable constraint. Then, a single‐loop approach combining modified chaos control strategy is applied to guarantee the robustness, effectiveness, and computational efficiency of RBTO. In addition, the sensitivities of the probabilistic constraint with respect to design and random variables are deduced, and the accuracy of sensitivities is verified by finite difference method. Finally, the validity of the RBTO method is verified by comparing with deterministic TO, in which three numerical examples are employed to demonstrate the robustness and computational accuracy.
Stiffness and strength topology optimization for bi‐disc systems based on dual sequential quadratic programming
Authors: Wang Weiwei , Ye Hongling , Li Zonghan , Sui Yunkang
Published: April 2022

Aiming at solving the lightweight design problems for bi‐disc systems with consideration of the stiffness and strength simultaneously, a two stage topology optimization framework based on independent continuous and mapping (ICM) method is developed. First, topology optimization formulations are established to guarantee the optimized design satisfying the key nodal displacement and stress constraints. Second, an information function is introduced to realize the transformation of the material properties between elements and components. Composite exponential filter functions are selected to establish the relationship between the properties of elements and corresponding topology design variables. Third, approximate explicit quadratic programming model is obtained by the sensitivity analysis and Taylor expansion. In the process of solving, the duality theory is used to establish the approximate dual model with less design variables. Finally, a series of topology optimization design problems for bi‐disc systems are presented and discussed to illustrate the robustness and feasibility of the method. This study finds some new torsional bi‐disc designs and can also provide some theoretical references for the lightweight topology optimization of a multicomponent system.
Phase‐field modeling of brittle fracture along the thickness direction of plates and shells
Authors: Ambati Marreddy , Heinzmann Jonas , Seiler Martha , Kästner Markus
Published: April 2022

The prediction of fracture in thin‐walled structures is decisive for a wide range of applications. Modeling methods such as the phase‐field method usually consider cracks to be constant over the thickness which, especially in load cases involving bending, is an imperfect approximation. In this contribution, fracture phenomena along the thickness direction of structural elements (plates or shells) are addressed with a phase‐field modeling approach. For this purpose, a new, so called “mixed‐dimensional” model is introduced, which combines structural elements representing the displacement field in the two‐dimensional shell midsurface with continuum elements describing a crack phase‐field in the three‐dimensional solid space. The proposed model uses two separate finite element discretizations, where the transfer of variables between the coupled two‐ and three‐dimensional fields is performed at the integration points which in turn need to have corresponding geometric locations. The governing equations of the proposed mixed‐dimensional model are deduced in a consistent manner from a total energy functional with them also being compared to existing standard models. The resulting model has the advantage of a reduced computational effort due to the structural elements while still being able to accurately model arbitrary through‐thickness crack evolutions as well as partly along the thickness broken shells due to the continuum elements. Amongst others, the higher accuracy as well as the numerical efficiency of the proposed model are tested and validated by comparing simulation results of the new model to those obtained by standard models using numerous representative examples.
Advocating with a commercial mindset: The impact of commercial income on nonprofit advocacy engagement
Authors: Dong Qiang , Lu Jiahuan , Lee Cheon
Published: April 2022

Nonprofits' growing reliance on commercial income has aroused wide concern that commercialization discourages nonprofit engagement in policy advocacy to promote positive social changes. Despite this concern, empirical studies on this relationship are lacking and existing evidence is mixed. This research note proposes that the relationship between commercial income and advocacy engagement is curvilinear, following an inverted U‐shaped pattern. Specifically, as a nonprofit's proportion of commercial income increases, its advocacy engagement will initially increase, but after a tipping point, further increases in the nonprofit's commercial income will reduce its advocacy engagement. An analysis of survey data from 336 service‐delivery nonprofits in mainland China supports the curvilinear relationship. The finding adds new knowledge from a non‐Western, authoritarian context to the literature and has implications for nonprofits in addressing the mission‐market tension.
Effects of a person‐centred and thriving‐promoting intervention on nursing home residents’ experiences of thriving and person‐centredness of the environment
Authors: Sjögren Karin , Bergland Ådel , Kirkevold Marit , Lindkvist Marie , Lood Qarin , Sandman Per‐Olof , Vassbø Tove Karin , Edvardsson David
Published: April 2022

Aim

To evaluate the effects of a person‐centred and thriving‐promoting intervention on nursing home residents´ experiences of thriving and person‐centredness of the environment, and to evaluate if the effects varied between female and male residents.

Design

A multi‐centre, non‐equivalent controlled group before‐after intervention design.

Methods

Six nursing homes in Australia, Norway and Sweden were allocated to either intervention or control group. The intervention comprised a staff educational programme. A survey using proxy‐ratings by staff was administered before (T0), immediately after (T1) and six months after (T2) the intervention. The sample varied between 205 and 292 residents. Linear regression models were used to explore effects.

Results

Statistically significant effects were found on experiences of thriving and person‐centredness of the environment. These effects were significant for male residents but not for female residents. The results emphasize the importance of individually tailored social and recreational activities.
COVID‐19 and health in children and adolescents in the US: A narrative systematic review
Authors: Mayra Selicia T. , Kandiah Jayanthi , McIntosh Constance E.
Published: April 2022

In the United States, the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic necessitated nationwide closures of kindergarten through twelfth grade (K‐12) schools. Stay‐at‐home orders and social distancing mandates were also implemented to mitigate the spread of COVID‐19. The purpose of this systematic review was to synthesize the existing literature on how COVID‐19 impacted K‐12 students' eating patterns, physical activity, and sleep in the United States. Utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a literature search was conducted between October and December 2021. Inclusion criteria were studies focused on COVID‐19 and eating patterns, physical activity, and sleep in students enrolled in K‐12 schools since March 2020. International studies were excluded. Mixed findings were observed for eating patterns whereby the consumption of unhealthful savory and sweet items and healthful snacks (e.g., fruit and vegetables) increased. Reductions in physical activity and disrupted sleep routines were also observed. Heterogeneity in methodological procedures may limit the generalizability of these findings. In the United States, preliminary data suggest that select health‐promoting behaviors were negatively impacted by the COVID‐19 pandemic. Given that prolonged unhealthful eating patterns, physical inactivity, and poor sleep contribute to chronic disease risk, initiatives that increase health‐promoting behaviors are warranted.
Highly Graphitized Porous Carbon Microspheres Derived from Copolymer of Glucose and Melamine for Advanced Electrodes
Authors: Lin Zhen‐Hang , Li Xia , Song Yun‐Fei , Jing Lai‐Ying , Zhang Yun‐Qiang , Li Mei , Cui Jia‐Xi
Published: April 2022

The N/O co‐doped hierarchical porous graphitized carbon microspheres (N/O‐PCs) are successfully prepared by condensation polymerization of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural and melamine, and subsequent KOH activation strategy. The obtained carbon materials have a high specific surface area (1685.58 m2g–1), rich micro‐ and mesopores, and appropriate pore volume (0.828 cm3g–1). The degree of graphitization for N/O‐PCs is improved because the ratio ofIGandIDincreases from 0.88 to 1.03. The layer spacing of the lattice plane (002) for the N/O‐PCs is enlarged, facilitating the transmission of electrolyte ions. The high graphitization degree and enlarged layer spacing bring excellent electrical conductivity and wettability for N/O‐PCs as electrode materials. Besides, owing to the higher N (3.59 at%) and O (12.67 at%) content, the N/O‐PCs show excellent specific capacitances of 412 and 284 F g–1at the current densities of 1 and 10 A g–1in 2mH2SO4aqueous electrolytes, respectively. Outstanding rate performance (200 F g–1at 50 A g–1) and ideal cycle stability (>10 000 cycles) are achieved. Moreover, the N/O‐PCs‐based symmetric supercapacitor exhibits an energy density of 9.6 Wh kg–1at 100.8 W kg–1. Thus, the N/O‐PCs provide the potential for high‐performance supercapacitor electrodes.
Synthesis of 3‐carene‐derived nanocellulose/1,3,4‐thiadiazole‐amide complexes with antifungal activity for plant protection
Authors: Zou Renxuan , Li Baoyu , Duan Wengui , Lin Guishan , Cui Yucheng
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

Nanopesticides have been proved to be a powerful and promising tool to solve the issues in agriculture. The purpose of the present study was to develop ecofriendly nanopesticide systems by the strategy of comprehensive utilization of two natural biomass resources (bagasse and turpentine oil) because of their incomparable advantages.

RESULTS

In this research, a series of nanocellulose carriers ETOCN‐1–ETOCN‐4 (ETOCN, esterified TEMPO‐oxidized cellulose nanofibers) with different degrees of substitution were prepared and characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Then, 21 1,3,4‐thiadiazole‐amide compounds 8a–8u containing gem‐dimethylcyclopropane ring were designed, synthesized and characterized. A preliminary bioassay indicated that compound 8i (R = p‐Br Ph) exhibited broad‐spectrum antifungal activity against the tested fungi. Furthermore, drug‐loading complexes 8i/ETOCN‐1–8i/ETOCN‐4 were fabricated by integration of nanocellulose‐based carriers ETOCN‐1–ETOCN‐4 with bioactive compound 8i, and the drug‐loading capacities, microstructures and sustained‐releasing performance of these complexes were also investigated. According to the observation of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of complex 8i/ETOCN‐2, the small‐molecule drug and the carrier formed a well‐distributed and compact complex, which led to the excellent drug‐loading capacity and sustained‐releasing performance in the ethanol/water (1:1, v/v) system.

CONCLUSIONS

Complexes 8i/ETOCN‐1–8i/ETOCN‐4 deserved further study as the promising candidates for the development of nanopesticides. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effect of f–d and d–d Interactions on Dielectric and Optical Properties of Pyrochlore Eu2−xFexTi2O7
Authors: Alam Mohd , Pal Arkadeb , Ghosh Surajit , Singh Ranjan K. , Ghosh Anup K. , Chatterjee Sandip
Published: April 2022

X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, dielectric property, and UV–vis spectroscopy studies of pyrochlore Eu2−xFexTi2O7 have been performed. The X‐ray pattern shows that Eu2−xFexTi2O7 has a pure pyrochlore phase up to x = 0.2. The structural analysis shows a strong distortion of TiO6 octahedral due to the presence of the interstitial anionic vacant site. A significantly increased band intensity of FTIR spectrum with Fe doping suggests the enhanced anionic disorder in the system. The broadening of Raman peaks with increasing x supports the increased disorder in TiO6 octahedral. Dielectric study of Eu2Ti2O7 shows a diffused dielectric transition below 150 K. The dielectric diffusiveness and transition temperature get enhanced with Fe doping due to enhanced anionic distortion. The dielectric constant of Eu2−xFexTi2O7 is also increased on Fe doping. The UV–vis spectrum exhibits a strong absorbance in the UV region and a redshift with Fe doping. The Tauc plot of UV–vis spectrum shows multiple successive valence band edges and the bandgap gets reduced with Fe doping due to the formation of new interbands. Thus, these materials are interesting for people searching for material to be used in tunable electrical and optical devices.
Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) α‐amylase inhibitors as safe nutraceutical strategy against diabetes and obesity: An update review
Authors: Peddio Stefania , Padiglia Alessandra , Cannea Faustina B. , Crnjar Roberto , Zam Wissam , Sharifi‐Rad Javad , Rescigno Antonio , Zucca Paolo
Published: April 2022

Overweight and obesity are constantly increasing, not only in Western countries but also in low‐middle‐income ones. The decrease of both the intake of carbohydrates and their assimilation are among the main dietary strategies to counter these conditions. α‐Amylase, a key enzyme involved in the digestion of carbohydrates, is the target enzyme to reduce the absorption rate of carbohydrates. α‐Amylase inhibitors (α‐AIs) can be found in plants. The common bean, Phaseolus vulgaris is of particular interest due to the presence of protein‐based α‐AIs which, through a protein–protein interaction, reduce the activity of this enzyme. Here we describe the nature of the various types of common bean seed extracts, the type of protein inhibitors they contain, reviewing the recent Literature about their molecular structure and mechanism of action. We also explore the existing evidence (clinical trials conducted on both animals and humans) supporting the potential benefits of this protein inhibitors from P. vulgaris, also highlighting the urgent need of further studies to confirm the clinical efficacy of the commercial products. This work could contribute to summarize the knowledge and application of P. vulgaris extract as a nutraceutical strategy for controlling unwanted weight gains, also highlighting the current limitations.
Evaluation of user‐interfaces for controlling movements of virtual minimally invasive surgical instruments
Authors: Shabir Dehlela , Anbatawi Malek , Padhan Jhasketan , Balakrishnan Shidin , Al‐Ansari Abdulla , Abinahed Julien , Tsiamyrtzis Panagiotis , Yaacoub Elias , Mohammed Amr , Deng Zhigang , Navkar Nikhil V.
Published: April 2022

Background

Recent tele‐mentoring technologies for minimally invasive surgery (MIS) augments the operative field with movements of virtual surgical instruments as visual cues. The objective of this work is to assess different user‐interfaces that effectively transfer mentor's hand gestures to the movements of virtual surgical instruments.

Methods

A user study was conducted to assess three different user‐interface devices (Oculus‐Rift, SpaceMouse, Touch Haptic device) under various scenarios. The devices were integrated with a MIS tele‐mentoring framework for control of both manual and robotic virtual surgical instruments.

Results

The user study revealed that Oculus Rift is preferred during robotic scenarios, whereas the touch haptic device is more suitable during manual scenarios for tele‐mentoring.

Conclusion

A user‐interface device in the form of a stylus controlled by fingers for pointing in 3D space is more suitable for manual MIS, whereas a user‐interface that can be moved and oriented easily in 3D space by wrist motion is more suitable for robotic MIS.
Is Covid‐19 changing sustainable consumer behavior? A survey of Italian consumers
Authors: Dangelico Rosa Maria , Schiaroli Valerio , Fraccascia Luca
Published: April 2022

Since the beginning of 2020, the world has been hit by the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus that causes Covid‐19. To hamper its spread, policymakers of many countries have put in place strong countermeasures, including lockdowns, that have led to significant changes in people's lifestyles and daily routines. This article aims at assessing the changes caused by Covid‐19 in sustainable consumer behavior under multiple perspectives, contributing to advance knowledge at the intersection between consumer dynamics and sustainable consumer behavior literature. A survey was conducted on 1.535 Italian consumers between December 2020 and February 2021. Respondents were asked to assess the extent to which their consumption behavior—purchase frequency, willingness to pay a premium price, sense of moral duty to purchase, social influence to purchase—related to several categories of sustainable products changed due to the pandemic, as well as the extent to which the pandemic impacted on many other aspects, including their environmental awareness, concern, and habits. Results show that Covid‐19 generated relevant changes. Consumers have increased their purchase frequency and willingness to pay for sustainable products, show growing attention to environmental issues, and behave more sustainably. Further, the extent of change is strongly affected by socio‐demographic variables, such as gender, age, income, and education. For instance, women reported a higher shift towards sustainable consumption and behavior than men. Understanding these changes is important to guide marketers and policymakers to respond promptly and effectively to them and to leverage on them to foster a transition towards a more sustainable society.
Calculating power for the Finkelstein and Schoenfeld test statistic for a composite endpoint with two components
Authors: Zhou Thomas J. , LaValley Michael P. , Nelson Kerrie P. , Cabral Howard J. , Massaro Joseph M.
Published: April 2022

The Finkelstein and Schoenfeld (FS) test is a popular generalized pairwise comparison approach to analyze prioritized composite endpoints (eg, components are assessed in order of clinical importance). Power and sample size estimation for the FS test, however, are generally done via simulation studies. This simulation approach can be extremely computationally burdensome, compounded by increasing number of composite endpoints and with increasing sample size. Here we propose an analytical solution to calculate power and sample size for commonly encountered two‐component hierarchical composite endpoints. The power formulas are derived assuming underlying distributions in each of the component outcomes on the population level, which provide a computationally efficient and practical alternative to the standard simulation approach. Monte Carlo simulation results demonstrate that performance of the proposed power formulas are consistent with that of the simulation approach, and have generally desirable objective properties including robustness to mis‐specified distributional assumptions. We demonstrate the application of the proposed formulas by calculating power and sample size for the Transthyretin Amyloidosis Cardiomyopathy Clinical Trial.
Alliance performance and subsequent make‐or‐ally choices: Evidence from the aircraft manufacturing industry
Authors: Ren Charlotte R. , Mulotte Louis , Dussauge Pierre , Anand Jaideep
Published: April 2022

Research Summary

We examine how the performance of a firm's prior alliances influences its propensity to persist with the alliance mode or switch to independent operations in the context of new product introductions (NPIs). Drawing on the behavioral theory of the firm (BTOF), we argue that a firm's alliance performance has a U‐shaped effect on its likelihood of undertaking the subsequent NPI independently and that competitive intensity strengthens this U‐shaped relationship. We also predict that firms with above‐aspiration alliance performance are more likely to achieve breakthrough performance in the subsequent NPI if they switch to independence than if they continue to ally. Data on NPIs in the global aircraft manufacturing industry (1944–2000) support our hypotheses. Our study extends the alliance literature and contributes to research on how firm performance influences subsequent strategic choices.

Managerial Summary

The dilemma of whether to continue or exit an alliance or relationship is a common one for individuals, countries, and firms. Our study examines firms' strategic decision to switch to independent operations after having partnered with other firms. Using the aircraft product development context, we show that firms that make such a change in their strategy are the ones that performed either much better or much worse than what they expected. Firms with alliance performance close to their expectations tend to persist with their current strategy. Of the firms that change their strategy, the high performers benefit much more from changing their strategy than low performers. We provide insights regarding when it is preferable for managers to continue to ally or to switch to independence, especially in launching new products.
Enhanced Thermoelectric Power Factor in Carrier‐Type‐Controlled Platinum Diselenide Nanosheets by Molecular Charge‐Transfer Doping
Authors: Youn Seonhye , Kim Jeongmin , Moon Hongjae , Kim Jae‐Keun , Jang Juntae , Chang Joonyeon , Lee Takhee , Kang Keehoon , Lee Wooyoung
Published: April 2022

2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have revealed great promise for realizing electronics at the nanoscale. Despite significant interests that have emerged for their thermoelectric applications due to their predicted high thermoelectric figure of merit, suitable doping methods to improve and optimize the thermoelectric power factor of TMDCs have not been studied extensively. In this respect, molecular charge‐transfer doping is utilized effectively in TMDC‐based nanoelectronic devices due to its facile and controllable nature owing to a diverse range of molecular designs available for modulating the degree of charge transfer. In this study, the power of molecular charge‐transfer doping is demonstrated in controlling the carrier‐type (n‐ and p‐type) and thermoelectric power factor in platinum diselenide (PtSe2) nanosheets. This, combined with the tunability in the band overlap by changing the thickness of the nanosheets, allows a significant increase in the thermoelectric power factor of the n‐ and p‐doped PtSe2 nanosheets to values as high as 160 and 250 µW mK−2, respectively. The methodology employed in this study provides a simple and effective route for the molecular doping of TMDCs that can be used for the design and development of highly efficient thermoelectric energy conversion systems.