bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Registration of New Bread Wheat Variety (Gutu) for Mid to Highland Altitude Wheat Producing Areas of Ethiopia
Authors: Duga Rut , Dabi Alemu , Zewdu Demeke , Sime Berhanu , Alemu Gadisa , Geleta Negash , Solomon Tafesse , Delasa Abebe , Zegaye Habtemariam , Asnake Dawit , Asefa Bayisa , Getamesay Abebe , Kasahun Cherinet , Abeyo Bekele , Badebo Ayele , Awas Geremew
Published: December 2024

Wheat, a staple crop in Ethiopia, is constrained by biotic and abiotic stresses. Despite efforts to develop high-yielding, disease-resistant varieties, most have short agronomic life spans due to mainly yellow rust and stem rust diseases.  Therefore, continuous breeding and selection are needed to identify new varieties with high yield potential, resistance to major wheat diseases, and adaptability to different climatic conditions. Thirty advanced bread wheat lines together with standard and local checks were evaluated using row-to-column design in three replications at six and nine locations during the 2021 and 2022 main seasons, respectively. Data such as days to maturity, plant height, yield, TKW, and test weight were taken. The yield data were exposed to statistical analysis. The new variety, EBW192345 (Kenya sunbird/2*Kachu/3/SWSR22T.B/2* Blouk#1//Wbll1*2/Kuruku) outyielded the standard check (Boru) and local check (Dandaá) by 25.43% and 51.9%, respectively.  The new variety not only outyielded the checks, but it exhibited better resistance to yellow and stem rust diseases and had better performances in 1000 Kernel weight and test weight compared to the other treatments including the checks. Based on two years of multi-location data and performances on research plots and farmers’ fields, EBW192345 was released by the national variety release committee for commercial production in mid to highlands in Ethiopia during 2023.
Mortality and Repellency Effect of Some Essential Oils against Tribolium castaneum (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)
Authors: Sharmin Rabeya , Haque Sakura , Rumpa Mst. Jannatul Ferdaus , Faruki Saiful Islam
Published: December 2024

The red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum) is a major pest of stored grains, causing significant economic losses. In recent years, essential oils have gained attention as eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic pesticides. This study evaluated the insecticidal and repellent properties of three essential oils—lavender (Lavandula spica), mogra (Jasminum sambac), and rose (Rosa damascena)—against T. castaneum. Toxicity was assessed using direct contact and fumigation methods, targeting adult T. castaneum, respectively. Repellency was tested on larvae using filter paper assays and bioassays were conducted at varying doses and exposure durations. In direct contact assays, adult mortality increased with higher doses and longer exposure times. Lavender oil showed the highest toxicity (LD50 = 0.366–0.143 µl/cm²), followed by Mogra oil (LD50 = 1.037–0.147 µl/cm² at 3–48 h) and rose oil (LD50 = 0.651–0.188 µl/cm²). In fumigation assays, rose oil was the most effective against the target insect (LD50 = 4.031–2.252 µl/cm² at 24–48 h), followed by lavender oil (LD50 = 4.980–3.180 µl/cm²) and mogra oil (LD50 = 7.339–5.463 µl/cm²). Overall, the direct contact method was more effective than fumigation. Repellency assays showed mogra oil exhibiting significant effects (F = 25.25, P < 0.001) and achieving 100% repellency at 0.0785 µl/cm² within 3–4 hours, whereas lavender and rose oils showed lower and statistically insignificant effects. This study highlights the potential of essential oils as biopesticides for managing T. castaneum. Mogra oil demonstrated superior efficacy in direct contact assays, while rose oil excelled in fumigation tests. These findings support the use of essential oils as eco-friendly alternatives for pest management in stored grains.
Effects of Varietal Selection and Plant Spacing Patterns on the Growth of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Irrigated Agro-Eco-Systems of Punjab
Authors: Wahengbam Bimolkishor , Gill Rubina , Menon Sandeep , Patel Mastu
Published: December 2024

Maize (Zea mays L; 2n=20) is one among the major cereal crops grown in the humid tropics. It has high yield potential, immense potentiality, and that is why it is also known as ‘queen of cereals’. Though it is mainly used as a food crop in India by the rural population in the form of bread and gruel, it has vast industrial potentialities as well having as many as 50 different uses. The world's corn production in 2020-2021 is 1216.87 million tons. The estimated production of maize in 2022-2023 was to reach 1,161.86 million tonnes in. The predicted global maize production for this year is the same period was 1,161.86 million tonnes, and a decrease of 55.00 million tonnes or 4.52%. The total area of maize (for dry grain) in the world is 197 M hectares, with significant regions in Asia, Latin America, and sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) (FAOStat, 2021). In India, Kharif maize accounts for about 83% of the country's total maize area, while Rabi maize accounts for 17%. The most widely used products made from maize are meal and flour, though there are many regional variations in how maize is processed and consumed.
Evaluating Morphometric Character Variations in Diploid and Triploid Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) during Early Developmental Stages
Authors: Arya Diksha , Kumar Avdhesh , Pandey Nityanand
Published: December 2024

Numerous techniques have been put out to differentiate between diploid and triploid organisms, but they are all too complicated and expensive for everyday handling. This study investigated the possibility of distinguishing between diploid and triploid common carp by using simple and cost-effective morphometric variations. This study examines morphometric variations between diploid and triploid common carp (Cyprinus carpio) at three initial developmental stages at 15-, 45- and 75-days post-hatch (dph) to evaluate the morphometric variations during the early developmental stages. Assessments of 11 morphometric characteristics indicated no significant differences between both the ploidy groups at 15 and 45 dph (P > .05), implying similar growth patterns during the early stages of development. However, by 75 dph, significant differences (P<.05) were observed in standard length (SL), eye diameter (ED), anterior myotomal height (AMH), and middle myotomal height (MMH). Triploid fish exhibited higher values in these characteristics. The findings imply that the growth benefits in triploids could be related to metabolic or genetic alterations associated with triploidy, particularly as physiological differences become more pronounced over time. The similarities in early morphometric characteristics between diploids and triploids likely signify shared genetic lineages, whereas the differences at later developmental stages highlight the effect of triploidy on growth characteristics.
Efficacy of Essential Oils against Purple Blotch of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Caused by Alternaria porri (Ellis) Cif
Authors: Pandey Sujeet , Tiwari Shashi , Srivastava Yashika
Published: December 2024

A research trial was carried out during Rabi season, 2023-24 at the Central Research Field, Department of Plant Pathology, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology And Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of different essential oils on purple blotch of garlic caused by Alternaria porri on disease intensity and  yield. The trial was conducted using seven treatments viz. T1- neem oil (5%), T2- eucalyptus oil (5%), T3- clove oil (5%), T4- castor oil (5%), T5- mustard oil (5%), T6- mancozeb 75 WP (0.2%) and T0- control with each treatment replicating three times to manage the disease and also to evaluate the effect of treatments on the disease intensity and yield. . Results showed that all treatments significantly increased yield of garlic and reduced the intensity of disease. From the study of results, it was concluded that among all the treatments, the most effective in managing the disease was T6- Mancozeb (27.85%) followed by T1- Neem oil (34.76%), T3- Clove oil (37.66%), T2- Eucalyptus oil (37.83%), T4- Castor oil (39.49%) and T5- Mustard oil (40.25%) as compared to T0- Control (49.24%) and for influencing the yield was yield (t/ha.) was T6- Mancozeb (5.41) followed by T1- Neem oil (4.05), T3- Clove oil (3.83), T2- Eucalyptus oil (3.73), T4- Castor oil (3.56) and T5- Mustard oil (3.31) as compared to T0- Control (2.61).
Prevalence of Endometrial Hyperplasia among Patients with Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: An Analysis from a Single Centre
Authors: Amin Rifat , Kazmi Junaid , Jeelani Beenish , Khursheed Rabia
Published: December 2024

Background: Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a frequent cause for gynaecological consultations, often linked to underlying endometrial pathology. Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) is of clinical importance, particularly when atypia is present, due to its potential to progress to endometrial carcinoma (World Health Organization, 2014; Kurman et al., 2014). This study investigates the prevalence of EH in patients admitted with AUB at Sheri Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, J&K.
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted, including 73 patients admitted with AUB who underwent endometrial biopsy. The prevalence of EH was assessed, with cases categorized as either hyperplasia without atypia or hyperplasia with atypia.
Results: Out of the 73 patients, 28 cases (38.36%) were diagnosed with EH. Of these, 25 cases (34.25%) had hyperplasia without atypia, while 3 cases (4.1%) had hyperplasia with atypia, highlighting the importance of prompt evaluation in preventing progression to malignancy (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 2020; Miller et al., 2021).
Conclusion: The findings underscore the necessity of histopathological assessment in AUB cases, especially for identifying atypical hyperplasia, which carries a higher risk of endometrial cancer (Reed et al., 2009; Huang et al., 2020). The study advocates for refining screening protocols and exploring tailored management strategies to optimize patient outcomes.
Comparative Analysis of Ultrasound and Thermography for Detecting Tissue Alterations in Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema
Authors: Simões Raiana Fernandes Mariz , Oliveira Laura Raynelle Patriota , Silva Ana Cláudia Souza da , Silva Ana Rafaela Cardozo da , Lima Maria Gabriela Amaral , Tenório Naiany , Gomes Vanessa Maria da Silva Alves , Dantas Diego
Published: December 2024

Aims: To associate the results of thermography and ultrasound of the upper limb with lymphedema in women after breast cancer.
Study Design: Cross-sectional study.
Place and Duration of Study: Conducted in Recife, Brazil, from September 2022 to July 2024.
Methodology: A total of 43 breast cancer survivors were included. Each participant underwent frontal thermography using a Thermovision FLIR Systems C5 camera. Minimum, mean, and maximum temperatures were evaluated at specific points on the forearm (TA) and arm (TB) using the FLIR Tools software. The same points were analyzed using ultrasound to identify fibrosis, fat infiltration, thickening of the dermo epidermal layer (DEC), and loss of differentiation between layers. Statistical analysis was performed using JASP software.
Results: The study identified a higher prevalence of DEC thickening in the arm (68.5%) and forearm (57.9%). However, no significant correlation was observed between skin temperature and tissue alterations (P > .05), with a small effect size and limited clinical relevance
Conclusion:The study revealed a significant prevalence of fibrosis and dermoepidermal layer thickening in lymphedema-affected upper limbs, with higher relative risk observed in participants with lymphedema. Thermographic analysis, however, did not show significant temperature differences correlating with ultrasound findings, highlighting its limited standalone diagnostic value.
A Review on Natural Farming in Horticultural Crop Production
Authors: Shaktawat Chetna , Ahirwar Shiv Kumar , Gangele Priyanka , Kumar Sanket , PS Harish , Abhinay
Published: December 2024

Producing enough food to feed a growing population has been the world's top priority since independence. While the combination of high-yielding farming methods has contributed to the world's food abundance, it has also raised concerns about environmental contamination and soil health. Natural farming is a chemical-free farming method with Indian roots that has been enhanced by contemporary ecological knowledge, resource recycling, and on-farm resource optimization. It is regarded as a varied agricultural system based on agroecology that incorporates animals, trees, and crops with functional biodiversity. With a focus on biomass mulching, using on-farm cow dung-urine formulations, keeping soil aerated, and avoiding synthetic chemical inputs, it is primarily centered on on-farm biomass recycling. It's anticipated that natural farming would lessen reliance on commercial inputs. It is regarded as an economical agricultural method with potential to boost rural development and jobs. India's horticulture industry is dealing with a variety of issues. One solution to these issues is a mixed farming system, which increases production and offers farm owners larger revenue returns. The crop-livestock, crop-forestry, crop-horticulture, fish-pig, fish-duck, and paddy-fish are some examples of mixed farming. Increased revenue and productivity, lower production costs per unit area, and lower farmer risk are all benefits of mixed farming systems.
Effect of Gamma Rays Irradiation on Seed Germination and Seedling Parameters in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)
Authors: Nimbal Anisa M , Vishawakarma Anand , Rao Prabhavati N , Mokashi Malavika
Published: December 2024

The present investigation was carried out with the aim to understand the gamma ray sensitivity of three sesame varieties viz., DS-5, DSS-9 and Swetha irradiated with ten different doses of gamma rays ie., 250Gy to 700 Gy at 50 Gy intervals. Germination percentage, root and shoot length, seedling length decreased gradually in all the three varieties compared to control which is untreated. Swetha showed a maximum reduction in germination percentage (73.0%) than DSS-9 (74.0%) and DS-5 (76.5%) at 700 Gy. At a higher dose of 700 Gy, root 1(.17 cm) in DS-5 and shoot (2.47 cm) length of seedlings in DSS-9 were greatly inhibited.  Based on all the biological parameters studied, the mutagen sensitivity of DSS-9 is higher than DS-5 and Swetha. The overall considerations on M1 generation effects showed that Swetha was least sensitive to gamma rays.
Revitalizing Kesawan, Medan City, North Sumatra, Indonesia: An Econometric Case Study
Authors: Maharani Siti Fathiya , Sibarani Robert , Purwoko Agus
Published: December 2024

The revitalization of historical areas plays a pivotal role in preserving cultural heritage, enhancing tourism appeal, and driving regional development. This study examines the impact of revitalization efforts in the Kesawan area of Medan City on regional development. Utilizing a quantitative approach, data were collected through surveys and interviews with stakeholders, including government officials, entrepreneurs, and local communities. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, validity and reliability tests, and simple linear regression. The findings reveal a positive and significant relationship between revitalization and regional development, with a regression coefficient of 0.152 and a determination coefficient of 91.2%. Key revitalization efforts include infrastructure improvements, the renovation of historical buildings, and the enhancement of public facilities, contributing to economic growth, cultural preservation, and improved quality of life. However, challenges such as utility management, parking issues, and balancing modernization with cultural preservation remain critical concerns. The study concludes that revitalization in the Kesawan area significantly impacts regional development, underscoring its strategic importance in sustainable urban planning. Recommendations include fostering coordination among stakeholders, maintaining historical buildings, and addressing infrastructural challenges to ensure the long-term success of revitalization initiatives.
What Is an Important Difference in Gait Speed in Adults With Knee Osteoarthritis?
Authors: Gilbert Abigail L. , Song Jing , Cella David , Chang Rowland W. , Dunlop Dorothy D.
Published: January 2020

Objective

Little is known regarding what difference in functional performance measures is significant in individuals with chronic medical disease. Our objective was to examine the important differences in gait speed in adults with radiographic knee osteoarthritis.

Methods

Functional performance was measured by gait speed using 20‐meter and 400‐meter walk tests performed at a self‐selected usual pace among adults with radiographic knee osteoarthritis participating in the Osteoarthritis Initiative at baseline and 2 years later. Both distribution‐based methods and anchor‐based methods were used to calculate the important differences in gait speed. Anchor‐based methods used the chair stand rate and self‐reported function to estimate gait speed differences related to physical function.

Results

We included 2,527 participants with radiographic knee osteoarthritis. Distribution‐based important difference estimates for the 20‐meter walk ranged from 4.1 to 6.4 meters/minute and 400‐meter walk estimates ranged from 2.9 to 6.5 meters/minute. Prevalent (cross‐sectional) anchor‐based estimates for the 20‐meter walk ranged from 5.4 to 6.9 meters/minute and for the 400‐meter walk ranged from 3.0 to 6.9 meters/minute. Longitudinal anchor‐based estimates were deemed unreliable. Combining distribution‐based with prevalent anchor‐based methods showed that an important gait speed difference for the 20‐meter walk is between 4.1 and 6.9 meters/minute and for the 400‐meter walk is between 2.9 and 6.9 meters/minute.

Conclusion

Our results found that the important difference in gait speed for the 20‐meter walk and the 400‐meter walk is consistent with important difference estimates for older adult populations. These findings can provide benchmarks for assessing and understanding functional performance outcomes when comparing exposure groups and can be used in designing future studies targeting adults with radiographic knee osteoarthritis.
Maternal Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnant Women With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Future Cardiovascular Outcomes
Authors: Simard Julia F. , Rossides Marios , Arkema Elizabeth V. , Svenungsson Elisabet , Wikström Anna‐Karin , Mittleman Murray A. , Salmon Jane E.
Published: January 2020

Objective

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs) increase cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Pregnancy morbidities, including preeclampsia and CVD, are common in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Possible connections are important to explore. In a population‐based cohort, we investigated whether HDPs are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular outcomes separately in women with SLE and those without SLE to examine the role of SLE.

Methods

We identified first singleton births in the Medical Birth Register (1987–2012) among mothers with SLE and a large general population comparison group. Discharge diagnoses for HDPs, cardiovascular outcomes, and hypertension in the National Patient Register were identified using International Classification of Diseases codes. We estimated adjusted hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals of the association between HDPs and outcomes in separate models in women with and without SLE. We then evaluated additive and multiplicative effect modification using relative excess risk due to interaction and Cox models jointly accounting for SLE and HDPs, respectively. Mediation analysis estimated the proportion of the association between SLE and outcome explained by HDPs.

Results

HDPs were more common in pregnant women with SLE (20% versus 7%). In SLE, HDPs were associated with a 2‐fold higher rate of cardiovascular outcomes and a 3‐fold higher rate of incident hypertension. HDPs mediated 20% of the latter association. In women without SLE, HDPs were associated with higher incidence of hypertension later in life.

Conclusion

In women with SLE and those without SLE, HDPs were associated with a 3‐fold higher rate of hypertension. In SLE, women with HDPs developed cardiovascular outcomes twice as often as women without HDPs.
Low‐Temperature Polysilicon Oxide Thin‐Film Transistors with Coplanar Structure Using Six Photomask Steps Demonstrating High Inverter Gain of 264 V V−1
Authors: Jeong Duk Young , Chang Yeoungjin , Yoon Won Gyeong , Do Youngbin , Jang Jin
Published: January 2020

The low‐temperature polysilicon oxide (LTPO) complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) thin‐film transistors (TFTs) is fabricated by p‐type low‐temperature polysilicon (LTPS) TFT and n‐type amorphous indium‐gallium‐zinc oxide (a‐IGZO) TFT using coplanar structure. A double‐stack SiO2 layer deposited by high temperature first and then low‐temperature process is used as a gate insulator for LTPS TFT, leading to reduce the number of photomask steps. The p‐channel LTPS TFT of the fabricated LTPO circuits exhibits the field‐effect mobility (μFE) and threshold voltage (VTH) of 89.9 cm2 (V s)−1 and −5.5 V, respectively. However, the a‐IGZO TFT exhibits the μFE of 22.5 cm2 (V s)−1 and VTH of −1.3 V. Both the LTPS TFT and a‐IGZO TFT show excellent bias stability (ΔVTH of <0.1 V) and zero hysteresis voltage, which reveals the excellent interface between gate insulator and semiconductor. The LTPO CMOS inverter exhibits a gain of 264.5 V V−1 and a high noise margin of 4.29 V, and a low noise margin of 3.69 V at VDD of 8 V. Therefore, the LTPO TFT technology developed in this work can be a promising candidate for low cost, large‐area manufacturing of display, and TFT electronics.
Long‐Circulating Drug‐Dye‐Based Micelles with Ultrahigh pH‐Sensitivity for Deep Tumor Penetration and Superior Chemo‐Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Song Cunfeng , Li Yugang , Li Tianliang , Yang Yuming , Huang Zhicheng , de la Fuente Jesús Martinez , Ni Jian , Cui Daxiang
Published: January 2020

Nanocarriers for chemo‐photothermal therapy suffer from insufficient retention at the tumor site and poor penetration into tumor parenchyma. A smart drug‐dye‐based micelle is designed by making the best of the structural features of small‐molecule drugs. P‐DOX is synthesized by conjugating doxorubicin (DOX) with poly(4‐formylphenyl methacrylate‐co‐2‐(diethylamino) ethyl methacrylate)‐b‐polyoligoethyleneglycol methacrylate (P(FPMA‐co‐DEA)‐b‐POEGMA) via imine linkage. Through the π–π stacking interaction, IR780, a near‐infrared fluorescence dye as well as a photothermal agent, is integrated into the micelles (IR780‐PDMs) with the P‐DOX. The IR780‐PDMs show remarkably long blood circulation (t1/2β = 22.6 h). As a result, a progressive tumor accumulation and retention are presented, which is significant to the sequential drug release. Moreover, when entering into a moderate acidic tumor microenvironment, IR780‐PDMs can dissociate into small‐size conjugates and IR780, which obviously increases the penetration depth of drugs, and then improves the lethality to deep‐seated tumor cells. Owing to the high delivery efficiency and superior chemo‐photothermal therapeutic efficacy of IR780‐PDMs, 97.6% tumor growth in the A549 tumor‐bearing mice is suppressed with a low dose of intravenous injection (DOX, 1.5 mg kg−1; IR780, 0.8 mg kg−1). This work presents a brand‐new strategy for long‐acting intensive cancer therapy.
Antiferromagnetic Inverse Spinel Oxide LiCoVO4 with Spin‐Polarized Channels for Water Oxidation
Authors: Chen Riccardo Ruixi , Sun Yuanmiao , Ong Samuel Jun Hoong , Xi Shibo , Du Yonghua , Liu Chuntai , Lev Ovadia , Xu Zhichuan J.
Published: January 2020

Exploring highly efficient catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is essential for water electrolysis. Cost‐effective transition‐metal oxides with reasonable activity are raising attention. Recently, OER reactants' and products' differing spin configurations have been thought to cause slow reaction kinetics. Catalysts with magnetically polarized channels could selectively remove electrons with opposite magnetic moment and conserve overall spin during OER, enhancing triplet state oxygen molecule evolution. Herein, antiferromagnetic inverse spinel oxide LiCoVO4 is found to contain d7 Co2+ ions that can be stabilized under active octahedral sites, possessing high spin states S = 3/2 (t2g5eg2). With high spin configuration, each Co2+ ion has an ideal magnetic moment of 3 µB, allowing the edge‐shared Co2+ octahedra in spinel to be magnetically polarized. Density functional theory simulation results show that the layered antiferromagnetic LiCoVO4 studied contains magnetically polarized channels. The average magnetic moment (µave) per transition‐metal atom in the spin conduction channel is around 2.66 µB. Such channels are able to enhance the selective removal of spin‐oriented electrons from the reactants during the OER, which facilitates the accumulation of appropriate magnetic moments for triplet oxygen molecule evolution. In addition, the LiCoVO4 reported has been identified as an oxide catalyst with excellent OER activity.
High‐Performance Flexible Bioelectrocatalysis Bioassay System Based on a Triphase Interface
Authors: Cheng Qingqing , Zhang Jun , Wang Haili , Wang Dandan , Feng Xinjian , Jiang Lei
Published: January 2020

Flexible biosensor technologies are essential for the development of noninvasive bioassays such as those based on sweat or interstitial fluid analysis. Cathodic measurement of oxidase catalytic product H2O2 is an ideal principle for analyte detection, with O2 serving as an electron mediator. Herein, the authors report a flexible bioassay system comprising a flexible superhydrophobic polydimethylsiloxane micropillar array substrate, a noble metal H2O2 electrocatalyst‐decorated carbon nanotube film, and an oxidase enzyme top layer. The flexible bioassay system possesses a solid–liquid–air triphase bioelectrocatalysis reaction interface where oxygen levels are air phase dependent, hence constant and sufficient, which enhances and stabilizes the oxidase kinetics. In comparison with conventional flexible diphase bioassay systems, when used for analyte detection including but are not limited to glucose, choline, and lactate in body fluids, the triphase bioassay system displays a wide linear dynamic range and high selectivity. Moreover, the flexible bioassay system remains intact and fully operational after being bent over 500 times. Such a system should greatly promote the development of noninvasive biosensors for the monitoring of physiological biomarkers.
Ten‐Gram‐Scale Synthesis of FAPbX3 Perovskite Nanocrystals by a High‐Power Room‐Temperature Ultrasonic‐Assisted Strategy and Their Electroluminescence
Authors: Dou Yongjiang , Wang Sheng , Zhang Chengxi , Luo Hongde , Li Xiaomin , Wang Haoran , Cao Fan , Shen Piaoyang , Zhang Jianhua , Yang Xuyong
Published: January 2020

Metal halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) have shown significant potential in light‐emitting applications due to the unique luminous properties, such as high color purity, tunability, and solution processability. However, the large‐scale production of perovskite NCs with high‐quality for meeting the commercial applications is still a challenge. Herein, a facile room‐temperature synthesis of ten‐gram‐scale FAPbX3 (FA+ = HC(NH2)2+, X = Br, or mixed halide system Cl/Br and Br/I) NCs by a high‐power ultrasonic‐assisted strategy and the electroluminescence for light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) is reported. The uniform high‐power radiation avoids the adverse effects caused by heating and stirring unevenness, and no inert gas is needed in the reaction process. Meanwhile, the room temperature reaction reduces the crystallization rate of the NCs, leading to the successful synthesis of ten‐gram‐scale high‐quality FAPbX3 perovskite NCs. The resulting NCs show size‐focus distribution and high photoluminescence quantum yields of 93%, and the adjustable photoluminescence spectra from 453 to 695 nm by manipulating halide compositions. Attributed to the acquired FAPbBr3 NCs, a high‐efficiency green LED with the maximum current efficiency of 61.3 cd A−1 and external quantum efficiency of 14.1% is also obtained.
Multicolor Broadband and Fast Photodetector Based on InGaAs–Insulator–Graphene Hybrid Heterostructure
Authors: Cao Gaoqi , Wang Fang , Peng Meng , Shao Xiumei , Yang Bo , Hu Weida , Li Xue , Chen Jing , Shan Yabin , Wu Peisong , Hu Laigui , Liu Ran , Gong Haimei , Cong Chunxiao , Qiu Zhi‐Jun
Published: January 2020

Broadband light detection is crucial for a variety of optoelectronic applications in modern society. As an important‐near infrared (NIR) photodetector, InGaAs PIN photodiodes demonstrate high detection performance. However, they have a limited response range because of optical absorption by the window layer or substrate. To exploit the broadband absorption capability of narrow‐bandgap InGaAs, a phototransistor based on a hybrid InGaAs‐SiO2‐graphene heterostructure is presented. In this system, graphene serves as a transparent conducting channel to sense optical absorption in the InGaAs. In contrast to InGaAs PIN photodiodes, the hybrid InGaAs phototransistor demonstrates multicolor photodetection over a broadband wavelength range from the ultraviolet to NIR. Furthermore, it manifests a high photoresponsivity of above 103 A W−1 under weak light irradiation, a large external quantum efficiency, and a fast response speed of 200 kHz. The results pave the way for the development of high‐performance broadband photodetectors based on mixed‐dimensional heterostructures.
Tailored TiO2 Protection Layer Enabled Efficient and Stable Microdome Structured p‐GaAs Photoelectrochemical Cathodes
Authors: Cao Shiyao , Kang Zhuo , Yu Yanhao , Du Junli , German Lazarus , Li Jun , Yan Xiaoqin , Wang Xudong , Zhang Yue
Published: January 2020

Group III–V compound semiconductors are a promising group of materials for photoelectrochemical (PEC) applications. In this work, a metal assisted wet etching approach is adapted to acquiring a large‐area patterned microdome structure on p‐GaAs surface. In addition, atomic layer deposition is used to deposit a TiO2 protection layer with controlled thickness and crystallinity. Based on a PEC photocathode design, the optimal configuration achieves a photocurrent of −5 mA cm−2 under −0.8 V versus Ag/AgCl in a neutral pH electrolyte. The TiO2 coating with a particular degree of crystallization deposited via controlled temperature demonstrates a superior stability over amorphous coating, enabling a remarkably stable operation, for as long as 60 h. The enhanced charge separation induced by favorable band alignment between GaAs and TiO2 contributes simultaneously to the elevated solar conversion efficiency. This approach provides a promising solution to further development of group III–V compounds and other photoelectrodes with high efficiency and excellent durability for solar fuel generation.
CsI‐Antisolvent Adduct Formation in All‐Inorganic Metal Halide Perovskites
Authors: Moot Taylor , Marshall Ashley R. , Wheeler Lance M. , Habisreutinger Severin N. , Schloemer Tracy H. , Boyd Caleb C. , Dikova Desislava R. , Pach Gregory F. , Hazarika Abhijit , McGehee Michael D. , Snaith Henry J. , Luther Joseph M.
Published: January 2020

The excellent optoelectronic properties demonstrated by hybrid organic/inorganic metal halide perovskites are all predicated on precisely controlling the exact nucleation and crystallization dynamics that occur during film formation. In general, high‐performance thin films are obtained by a method commonly called solvent engineering (or antisolvent quench) processing. The solvent engineering method removes excess solvent, but importantly leaves behind solvent that forms chemical adducts with the lead‐halide precursor salts. These adduct‐based precursor phases control nucleation and the growth of the polycrystalline domains. There has not yet been a comprehensive study comparing the various antisolvents used in different perovskite compositions containing cesium. In addition, there have been no reports of solvent engineering for high efficiency in all‐inorganic perovskites such as CsPbI3. In this work, inorganic perovskite composition CsPbI3 is specifically targeted and unique adducts formed between CsI and precursor solvents and antisolvents are found that have not been observed for other A‐site cation salts. These CsI adducts control nucleation more so than the PbI2–dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) adduct and demonstrate how the A‐site plays a significant role in crystallization. The use of methyl acetate (MeOAc) in this solvent engineering approach dictates crystallization through the formation of a CsI–MeOAc adduct and results in solar cells with a power conversion efficiency of 14.4%.
High Electron Affinity Enables Fast Hole Extraction for Efficient Flexible Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ru Pengbin , Bi Enbing , Zhang Yao , Wang Yanbo , Kong Weiyu , Sha Yongming , Tang Wentao , Zhang Peng , Wu Yongzhen , Chen Wei , Yang Xudong , Chen Han , Han Liyuan
Published: January 2020

Inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with low‐temperature processed hole transporting materials (HTMs) suffer from poor performance due to the inferior hole‐extraction capability at the HTM/perovskite interfaces. Here, molecules with controlled electron affinity enable a HTM with conductivity improved by more than ten times and a decreased energy gap between the Fermi level and the valence band from 0.60 to 0.24 eV, leading to the enhancement of hole‐extraction capacity by five times. As a result, the 3,6‐difluoro‐2,5,7,7,8,8‐hexacyanoquinodimethane molecules are used for the first time enhancing open‐circuit voltage (Voc) and fill factor (FF) of the PSCs, which enable rigid‐and flexible‐based inverted perovskite devices achieving highest power conversion efficiencies of 22.13% and 20.01%, respectively. This new method significantly enhances the Voc and FF of the PSCs, which can be widely combined with HTMs based on not only NiOx but also PTAA, PEDOTT:PSS, and CuSCN, providing a new way of realizing efficient inverted PSCs.
Highly Dispersed Cobalt Clusters in Nitrogen‐Doped Porous Carbon Enable Multiple Effects for High‐Performance Li–S Battery
Authors: Wang Rui , Yang Jinlong , Chen Xin , Zhao Yan , Zhao Wenguang , Qian Guoyu , Li Shunning , Xiao Yinguo , Chen Hao , Ye Yusheng , Zhou Guangmin , Pan Feng
Published: January 2020

The lithium–sulfur (Li–S) battery is considered a promising candidate for the next generation of energy storage system due to its high specific energy density and low cost of raw materials. However, the practical application of Li–S batteries is severely limited by several weaknesses such as the shuttle effect of polysulfides and the insulation of the electrochemical products of sulfur and Li2S/Li2S2. Here, by doping nitrogen and integrating highly dispersed cobalt catalysts, a porous carbon nanocage derived from glucose adsorbed metal–organic framework is developed as the host for a sulfur cathode. This host structure combines the reported positive effects, including high conductivity, high sulfur loading, effective stress release, fast lithium‐ion kinetics, fast interface charge transport, fast redox of Li2Sn, and strong physical/chemical absorption, achieving a long cycle life (86% of capacity retention at 1C within 500 cycles) and high rate performance (600 mAh g−1 at 5C) for a Li–S battery. By combining experiments and density functional theoretical calculations, it is demonstrated that the well‐dispersed cobalt clusters play an important role in greatly improving the diffusion dynamics of lithium, and enhance the absorption and conversion capability of polysulfides in the host structure.
Effect of Intrinsic Defects of Carbon Materials on the Sodium Storage Performance
Authors: Guo Ruiqi , Lv Chunxiao , Xu Wenjia , Sun Junwei , Zhu Yukun , Yang Xianfeng , Li Junzhi , Sun Jin , Zhang Lixue , Yang Dongjiang
Published: January 2020

Due to their high conductivity and low cost, carbon materials have attracted great attention in the field of energy storage, especially as anode material for sodium ion batteries. Current research focuses on introducing external defects through heteroatom engineering to improve the sodium storage performance of carbon materials. However, there is still a lack of systematic investigation of the effects of intrinsic defects prevalent in carbon materials on sodium storage performance. Herein, template‐assisted method was used to design carbon materials with different degrees of intrinsic defects and explore their sodium storage properties. The experimental results show that the intrinsic defects in the carbon materials facilitates the adsorption behavior of Na+ during the surface induction capacitance process. Among them, the best carbon anode material exhibits high reversible capacity (221 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1) and excellent rate performance. In addition, the density functional theory calculations also show that the existence of intrinsic defects can optimize the distribution of electron density, thereby increasing the Na‐adsorption capacity. This work makes an important contribution to understanding the role of intrinsic defects in the sodium storage performance of carbon materials.
Deriving Structure‐Performance Relations of Chemically Modified Chitosan Binders for Sustainable High‐Voltage LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 Cathodes
Authors: Kuenzel Matthias , Porhiel Regis , Bresser Dominic , Asenbauer Jakob , Axmann Peter , Wohlfahrt‐Mehrens Margret , Passerini Stefano
Published: January 2020

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Prof. Dr. Stefano Passerini. The front cover illustrates the use of citric acid (co‐)crosslinked bio‐derived polymers, with chitosan and guar gum, as water‐soluble binders for sustainable lithium‐ion battery cathodes. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/batt.201900140.
Nutrient Sensing and Response Drive Developmental Progression in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Rashid Sabih , Pho Kim B. , Mesbahi Hiva , MacNeil Lesley T.
Published: January 2020

In response to nutrient limitation, many animals, including Caenorhabditis elegans, slow or arrest their development. This process requires mechanisms that sense essential nutrients and induce appropriate responses. When faced with nutrient limitation, C. elegans can induce both short and long‐term survival strategies, including larval arrest, decreased developmental rate, and dauer formation. To select the most advantageous strategy, information from many different sensors must be integrated into signaling pathways, including target of rapamycin (TOR) and insulin, that regulate developmental progression. Here, how nutrient information is sensed and integrated into developmental decisions that determine developmental rate and progression in C. elegans is reviewed.
Clinical and surgical outcomes of patients with peritoneal mesothelioma discussed at a monthly national multidisciplinary team video-conference meeting
Authors: Brandl A , Westbrook S , Nunn S , Arbuthnot-Smith E , Mulsow J , Youssef H , Carr N , Tzivanakis A , Dayal S , Mohamed F , Moran B J , Cecil T
Published: January 2020

Background

Peritoneal mesothelioma (PM) is a rare primary neoplasm of the peritoneum with an increasing incidence worldwide. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has shown promise as a treatment strategy. A national PM multidisciplinary team (national PM MDT) video-conference meeting was established in the UK and Ireland in March 2016, aiming to plan optimal treatment, record outcomes and provide evidence for the benefits of centralization. This article reports on the activities and outcomes of the first 2·5 years.

Methods

Between March 2016 and December 2018, patients with PM, referred to peritoneal malignancy centres in Basingstoke, Birmingham, Manchester and Dublin, were discussed by the national PM MDT via video-conference. The MDT was composed of surgeons, radiologists, specialist nurses and pathologists. Patients were considered for CRS and HIPEC if considered fit for surgery and if radiological imaging suggested that complete surgical cytoreduction could be achieved. Morbidity and mortality following surgery were analysed. Survival analysis following MDT discussion was conducted.

Results

A total of 155 patients (M : F ratio 0·96) with a mean(s.d.) age of 57(17) years were discussed. To date, 22 (14·2 per cent) have had CRS and HIPEC; the median Peritoneal Cancer Index for the surgical group was 17·0. Complete cytoreduction was achieved in 19 patients. Clavien–Dindo grade I–II complications occurred in 16 patients; there was no grade III–IV morbidity or 30-day in-hospital mortality. The median follow-up for the whole cohort was 18·7 months, and the 2-year survival rate from time of first review at the national PM MDT was 68·3 per cent.

Conclusion

The centralized national PM MDT was effective at selecting patients suitable for CRS and HIPEC, reporting a good outcome from patient selection.
The aortic root hexagon as an aide memoire to the important surgical landmarks
Authors: Almoosawy Sayed A. , Lucka Petra , Cummine Rhona , Buchan Keith
Published: January 2020

Background

The anatomy of the aortic root and its relationship to cardiac landmarks is important for valve‐sparing surgery and understanding the pathology of lesions arising in this structure. Rapid understanding of the key anatomical details can be achieved by a geometrical concept based on the shape of a hexagon.

Methods

Definitions, structure, and key anatomical concepts of the aortic root according to the current literature were reviewed. Thirty pig hearts were dissected to explore the relationships of the six points on the aortic root. Six double 2/0 ethibond needles were placed into the six points at 90°. The passage of the needles through the specific cardiac landmarks at each point was noted. The aortic root hexagon is a geometrical structure formed by two triangles superimposed on each other. The six points in the hexagon relate to important adjacent cardiac landmarks.

Results

The two best‐known anatomical relationships are of the left‐non coronary aortic commissure to the longitudinal axis of symmetry of the aortic leaflet of the mitral valve and the relationship of the nadir of the noncoronary aortic valve leaflet to the medial commissure of the mitral valve. The other four points are related to equally significant and well defined anatomical landmarks.

Conclusion

The aortic root hexagon is made by two triangles superimposed on each other, these are the commissural and nadir triangles respectively. We have found this concept to be a quick way to learn and remember the key anatomical relationships of the aortic root.
Primary mucocele of the mastoid: An incidental finding
Authors: Tonni Daniela , Sessa Michele , Redaelli de Zinis Luca O.
Published: January 2020

Mucocele is an accumulation of secretion products, desquamation, and inflammation within a body cavity: Localization in the mastoid is extremely rare. Erosion of bony walls and invasion of surrounding structures expose a patient to intra‐ and extracranial complications. Proper imaging work‐up and complete removal through mastoidectomy is warranted.
Reactivity of Methane and Benzene over Metal/MFI Zeolite Analyzed with Temperature‐Programmed Reaction Technique
Authors: Nakamura Koshiro , Okumura Kazu , Tsuji Etsushi , Suganuma Satoshi , Katada Naonobu
Published: January 2020

Reactivity of methane and benzene over various metals supported on MFI zeolite was investigated in a wide range of temperature by a temperature‐programmed reaction method. The oxidation state was also analyzed, as supported by X‐ray absorption near edge structure (XANES). Pt, Rh, and Rh on MFI were reduced at <600 K, and showed high activity for both benzene methylation and methane dehydrogenation, and hence, low selectivity for the methylation at high temperature. The short catalyst life of Pt/MFI suggests deactivation due to carbonaceous produced by the dehydrogenation. The oxidation state of Co species on ion exchange site of MFI was kept at +II in the experimental range (<843 K), and relatively high selectivity was observed on Co/MFI even at high temperature. Stable oxidized state of Co species thus contributed to catalyze the target reaction (methylation of benzene with methane).
Photophysical Switching between Aggregation‐Induced Phosphorescence and Dual‐State Emission by Isomeric Substitution
Authors: Xi Wenbin , Yu Junru , Wei Mengru , Qiu Qianqian , Xu Pengfei , Qian Zhaosheng , Feng Hui
Published: January 2020

It is attractive but highly challenging to achieve controllable regulation of photophysical properties of pure organic luminogens, due to distinct work mechanisms and molecular structures. Here, a strategy to regulate in a controllable way the emission behavior of luminogens is reported, according to which long‐lived aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) can be switched to short‐lived dual‐state emission (DSE) by an isomer‐based substitution reaction. Three luminogens with sharply different photophysical behaviors, including aggregation‐induced phosphorescence and dual‐state fluorescence emission, were obtained through a substitution reaction with three isomers. Freely rotating structures are attributed to aggregation‐induced phosphorescence behavior, whereas twisted rigidification of the molecule greatly contributes to its dual‐state emission phenomenon. This work contributes to the controlled regulation of photophysical behaviors through simple reactions and provides a solid evidence to support the key role of the prohibition of intramolecular rotation in aggregation‐induced emission process and molecular design of dual‐state emitters.
Formal C−H Carboxylation of Unactivated Arenes
Authors: Gevorgyan Ashot , Hopmann Kathrin H. , Bayer Annette
Published: January 2020

A formal C−H carboxylation of unactivated arenes using CO2 in green solvents is described. The present strategy combines a sterically controlled Ir‐catalyzed C−H borylation followed by a Cu‐catalyzed carboxylation of the in situ generated organoboronates. The reaction is highly regioselective for the C−H carboxylation of 1,3‐disubstituted and 1,2,3‐trisubstituted benzenes, 1,2‐ or 1,4‐symmetrically substituted benzenes, fluorinated benzenes and different heterocycles. The developed methodology was applied to the late‐stage C−H carboxylation of commercial drugs and ligands.
Experimental methods in chemical engineering: Residence time distribution—RTD
Authors: Bérard Ariane , Blais Bruno , Patience Gregory S.
Published: January 2020

Reactor performance, solids‐(gas)‐mixing, flow through porous media, distillation columns, or through granulators improve as the fluid dynamics approach ideal plug flow. The residence time distribution (RTD) is a diagnostic measure of how close fluid flow approaches ideal conditions. The technique introduces a step change to the inlet concentration—a Dirac‐δ function, Heaviside step function, or a rectangular pulse (bolus)—while high frequency detectors monitor the concentration along the vessel and/or at the exit. The effluent concentration profile spreads due to the variance in the process lines leading to the vessel and at the exit, the detector response, and the system. We quantify how much each of these contributes to the overall variance in a fluidized bed with 9 g of fluid cracking catalyst in 8 mm diameter quartz tubes. The injection variance is lowest for a GC sample loop configuration, compared to a 3‐way valve or 4‐way valve geometry. RTD measurements detect bypassing due to dead zones in vessels and the axial‐dispersion model and continuous stirred‐tank model to characterize deviation from plug flow. However, when the contribution to variance from the ancillary lines and detector is large compared to the system, the uncertainty in the model parameters is high. Research on RTD fundamentals concentrate on boundary conditions while, here, we focus on experimental errors: mechanical, physicochemical mathematical, and instrumental.