bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maize Production Risk and Technical Efficiency in Agricultural Development Programme Zone I of Taraba State, Nigeria
Authors: H.A. Kara, , M.M. Adamu, , E. Aboki,
Published: November 2024

This study analyzes maize production risk and technical efficiency in agricultural zone I in Taraba State, Nigeria. The study collected primary data from 299 randomly selected maize farmers during the 2022 farming season. The Cob-Douglas stochastic frontier production functions were used to analyze the data. Estimates of the stochastic frontier production function revealed that the coefficients of seeds, fertilizer, and agrochemicals were significant and positively related to maize output, while labour was negatively related to maize output. The input variables were jointly influencing maize output at decreasing returns to scale. The technical efficiency indices ranged from 0.34 to 0.97 with a mean of 0.75, indicating that the maize farmers in the study area were technically efficient in their production system, although they were operating below the frontier output. The study also revealed that seeds and fertilizer were risk-reducing inputs, while agrochemicals and labour were classified as risk-increasing inputs. The inefficiency model revealed that the technical efficiency of the farmers increased with age, education, extension contact, and land cultivation technique. The study concludes that the farmers were technically efficient, though below the frontier, and there is risk in the input used by the farmers. The study recommends that young educated people should join maize farming in the study area, farmers should use more seeds and fertilizer very well to stabilize output, and the government should encourage extension services and training for farmers.
Pertubations of Physicochemical Properties and Heavy Metal in the Soil of Coastal Areas of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: E. D. Udo, , E. D. Anwana, , F. O. Ogbemudia,
Published: November 2024

This study aimed at assessing the concentrations and perturbations of the physicochemical properties and heavy metals in the soil of the coastal regions of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Sampling was carried out across three mangrove locations (Iko Town, Okoroutip and Uta Ewa) in Eastern Obolo, Ibeno and Ikot Abasi Local Government Areas respectively. Four vegetation plots were randomly selected, and within each plot, three belt transects were established. Physicochemical properties [Sand, Clay, Silt, organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen, sulphate and chlorine content] and heavy metals (Arsenic, Silver, Chromium, Copper, Nickel, Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, Titanium, Vanadium and Zinc) were analyzed using standardized methods. Results from this study revealed considerable variations in the physicochemical properties of soil in the study area. The aforementioned heavy metals were present in both wet and dry seasons in considerable concentrations in the soil samples within the study areas. However, were within and below WHO limits. The variations in the physicochemical properties and the presence of these heavy metals in the samples are indicative of an impacted environment unsuitable for the growth and survival of the endemic flora and fauna species of this unique ecosystem. In view of the current knowledge of the role of mangrove ecosystems in blue-economy of the nation and mitigation of ongoing climate change, we advocate a tripartite alliance between the government, multinational  companies operating within the area and the various impacted communities that leads to a concerted efforts of constant monitoring and remediation in the reduction of current and future pollutant levels.
Optimizing Irrigation and Nitrogen Levels for Enhanced Cabbage Growth in Yobe's Semi-Arid Region
Authors: Y. M Liman , A. Bashir , H. A Audu , M. Ismaila
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the effects of irrigation schedules and nitrogen fertilizer application rates on the growth and productivity of cabbage in Damaturu, Yobe State. Using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) in a 3x5 factorial arrangement with three replications, we tested three irrigation intervals “3, 6, and 9 days” and five nitrogen fertilizer levels “0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 kg ha⁻¹” on an improved cabbage variety (Datdiku-5m). Results indicated cabbage growth positively responded to optimal irrigation intervals and increasing nitrogen fertilizer rates. The combination of 6-day irrigation intervals and 100 kg ha⁻¹ of nitrogen fertilizer resulted in impressive outcomes: a tallest head height of 18.92 cm, the largest head diameter of 16.95 cm, maximum plant height of 24.92 cm, the largest plant spread of 37.12 cm, a maximum marketable yield of 63.5 t/ha, and the highest total yield of 71.52 t/ha (Table 3). This combination ensures an adequate supply of water and nutrients, promoting robust growth and significant yield in semi-arid region. In contrast, lower irrigation intervals (9 days) and reduced nitrogen levels (0-50 kg ha⁻¹) led to stunted growth and lower productivity metrics, illustrating the critical role of proper water and nutrient management in achieving optimal cabbage yields. Therefore, adopting a 6-day irrigation schedule and applying 100 kg ha⁻¹ of nitrogen fertilizer may effectively increase cabbage yield. Future research should explore different nitrogen fertilizer rates and the combined effects of various nutrients with different irrigation intervals to further assess their impact.
Genetic Analysis of Yield, Protein, and Oil Traits in Soybean Diallel Crosses for Enhanced Crop Quality and Productivity
Authors: Mostafa Salwa M. , Abo-Zaid Gehan G. , Kalboush Shymaa F. A. , Ibrahim Mohamed A. , El-Refaey R. A. , Mohamed Amany M.
Published: November 2024

The study was conducted at Sakha Research Station, ARC, Egypt, during three successive seasons from 2021 to 2023. A half diallel cross of fifteen F1 and F2 generations in addition to the six soybean parental genotypes namely, Japanese 13, Giza 111, Crawford, H18L54, Nc92-2231 and Linford were evaluated to determine the genetic behavior of yield and its components traits in both F1 and F2 generations, as well as seed protein and oil contents in F1. Results indicated that mean squares of General Combining Ability (GCA) and Specific Combining Ability (SCA) were significant and highly significant for all the studied characters of soybean genotypes in F1’s and F2’s, except SCA for 100-seed weight in F2’s only. The GCA/SCA ratios were less than unity in all traits, indicating that, the non-additive gene effects seemed to be responsible for the inheritance of these traits. The parental genotypes; H18L54, Nc 92-2231 and Linford seemed to be excellent combiners for days to flowering and maturity; however, Giza 111 and Japanese 13 were good combiners for seed yield. Meanwhile, Giza 111 was a good combiner for protein and oil content; also, H18L54 and Nc 92-2231 were good combiners for protein content. The crosses C7, C9, C10, C11 and C13 were earlier for maturity date, and also showed the most negative significant desirable Ŝij effects. The best (Ŝij) values in F2 were shown in the C1, C5, C8 and C15 crosses for seed yield/plant, these crosses also had the highest seed yield values in F2. The crosses; C5 and C8 showed significant to highly significant positive heterotic effects relative to the better parent for protein% and seed yield per plant. In addition three crosses; C13, C14, and C15 had highly significant positive heterotic effects relative to the better parent for oil % and seed yield per plant.
Enzymatic Biosensors: Advanced Tools for Soil and Plant Health Monitoring
Authors: B Kamali. , Aparna B. , B Rani
Published: November 2024

Soil health is the potential of the soil to support the productivity of organisms, preserve the environment, and improve the health of plants and animals. Healthy soil is vital for agricultural sustainability and environmental resilience. The presence of high concentrations of toxic chemicals (pollutants and contaminants) in the soil poses a significant risk to human health and the ecosystem. Plant health is influenced by various factors, including the surrounding environment. To minimize constraints such as low nutrient levels, ecosystem contamination/pollution, and pest and disease incidences in crops, and to maximize productivity and ensure agricultural sustainability, advanced detection and management strategies are urgently needed. Diagnosis, prediction, and monitoring are essential for managing agricultural practices to mitigate these harmful impacts. The development of improved biosensing devices has been driven by the demand for quick, accurate, sensitive, real-time, and fast instruments for screening and identifying contaminants. Specific enzymes are used as the biological sensing element in an enzyme-based biosensor, which is combined with a transducer to transform the signal from the enzymatic reaction into a quantifiable response proportionate to the analyte concentration. Enzymatic biosensors need to possess high specificity, selectivity, reproducibility, stability, a low limit of detection, a low limit of quantification, and a rapid response time. They have a diverse array of uses, such as soil quality monitoring, water monitoring, food quality monitoring, pathogen detection, drug discovery, disease identification, and environmental research.
Feasibility of Fruit Waste-Derived Media for Microbial Culture: A Sustainable and Low-cost Approach
Authors: Ingle A. S. , Ghante P. H. , Patil S. U. , Magar S. J. , Thorat S. H.
Published: November 2024

The present study, conducted at the College of Agriculture, Latur during 2023-2024, explores the viability of using fruit waste-derived media as a cost-effective alternative to conventional media for the growth of plant pathogens. The research focuses on the growth performance of Pseudomonas fluorescens, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. udum, and Sclerotium rolfsii on media prepared from fruit peel of eight fruits (Banana, Pineapple, Papaya, Orange, Guava, Pomegranate, Dragon fruit, and Sapota). These fruit-based media were compared to traditional Nutrient Agar (NA) and Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). Results revealed that Sclerotium rolfsii showed maximum growth on Papaya Dextrose Agar, while Pseudomonas fluorescens exhibited the most robust growth on Banana, Papaya and Dragon Fruit Dextrose Agar. Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. udum demonstrated the highest radial growth on Banana Dextrose Agar. The study also observed that fruit-based media significantly reduced costs compared to Potato Dextrose Agar and Nutrient Agar making them a sustainable and accessible option for microbiological research, particularly in resource-limited environments.
Exploring Gender Equity in Tanzania- A Comprehensive Study on the Need for Inclusive Practices in Selected Major Media Houses in Tanzania
Authors: Temu Hoyce , Ng’atigwa Xavier
Published: November 2024

This study investigates gender equity in Tanzanian print media, particularly focusing on women's leadership. Utilizing a qualitative approach with an interpretivist paradigm, the explanatory case study design includes 12 in-depth interviews. The research unveils the impact of Stereotype Theory on employment promotion policies, emphasizing challenges related to family life and child-rearing in career advancement. Challenges in adhering to maternity leave regulations are identified, hindering the balance between family planning and career progression for female journalists. The study highlights subjective performance evaluations, favoritism concerns, and a lack of transparency in promotion policies, contributing to gender inequity. A glass ceiling is noted at middle and senior management levels. Recommendations include implementing supportive structures for working mothers, revising promotion policies for transparency, and fostering a workplace culture that actively promotes inclusivity. The aim is to create a more equitable and inclusive media industry in Tanzania.
Cystic Duct Variations in Adult Population; A Magnetic Resonance Based Cholangiopancreaticography at a Tertiary Care Referral Hospital
Authors: Haroon Quratulain , Shamim Bushra , Ajmal Rizwan , Irfan Nadia , Nasir Sadaf
Published: November 2024

Objective: To demonstrate the imaging and anatomical features of cystic duct variants on Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreaticography and document prevalence in urban population.
Study Design:  Retrospective observational study.
Place and Duration of Study:  Department of Radiology, Liaquat National Hospital Karachi, from January 2021 to December 2022.
Methodology: Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreaticography (MRCP) was performed in a total of 152 cases for various indications for example cholelithiasis, choledocholithiasis, biliary tracr obstruction,  acute cholecystitis,chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic divisum,  A phased array body coil and departmental protocols were used for the examinations, which produced heavily T2 weighted sequences including FRFSE (fast recovery fast spin echo) coronal oblique 3D images. Through multiplanar reconstruction, reformatting and maximum intensity projections were done for acquired images to optimize ductal visualization. PACS (picture archiving and communication system) was used for the evaluation of MRCP images. The ductal course, length, and insertion of the cystic duct were recorded. Descriptive statistics were calculated using SPSS. Chi-Square test was applied considering p-value ≤0.05 as significant.
Results: The mean age was 34.49±7.78 years. For the insertion of the cystic on bile duct, Right Lateral Insertion was 70.4%, Spiral Course with Medial Insertion was 3.3%, Low lateral insertion was 6.6%, Low Medial insertion was 5.3%, High Insertion was 3.3%, Anterior Insertion was 1.3%, Posterior Insertion was 7.9%. For the course and length or cystic duct, parallel Course was 7.2%, Short length of cystic duct was 17.1%. In others variants, Cystic duct joining right hepatic duct was 0.7%, and no Right Posterior sectorial hepatic duct draining into cystic duct was observed. On the other hand, there is no significant difference between age or sex and a specific anatomical variation in the cystic duct, p > 0.05.
Conclusion: Among the existing anatomical variants in the cystic duct in this adult population, where the lateral insertion is the most common form, up to 70% of the cases, it should not be overlooked that approximately one of every five patients may have a short cyst which can predispose to bile duct injury at the time of a cholecystectomy if adequate care is not taken.
Analysis of the Effectiveness of Project-Based Seamless Learning Model on Concept Understanding
Authors: Vicy  , Mustaji  , Mariono Andi , Arianto Fajar
Published: November 2024

Aims: The aim of this study was to identify the effectiveness of project-based seamless learning model on concept understanding.
Study Design:  The research method used quantitative experimental design.
Methodology: The research method used quasi experiment with research design nonequivalent pretest posttest group design, where there is an experimental group and a control group, the experimental group is given treatment and there is no treatment on the control group. The research subjects were 160 people, 80 people in the experimental group and 80 people in the control group. Data collection using tests conducted pretest and posttest. Data analysis used normality test, homogeneity test and independent sample t test.
Results: The results of research and discussion, it can be concluded that there is an effective project-based seamless learning model on concept understanding. Based on the results of hypothesis testing on the posttest, the value on the posttest of the experimental group and the control group obtained a significance value of 0.002 <0.050. And also the difference in the average posttest score of the experimental group is 84.06, greater than the lower control group of 80.56. This proves that there are differences caused by the application of the learning model in the two groups. The experimental group used a project-based seamless learning model while the control group used a conventional model.
Conclusion: there is the effectiveness of project-based seamless learning model on concept understanding. The hope is that the project-based seamless learning model can be applied at various levels of educational institutions or in various subject matters so that the quality of learning will be even better and continue to improve rapidly.
Perception of Farmers about Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture in Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Pandey Pratibha , Vinay Deepa , Kwatra Seema
Published: November 2024

The development process is being threatened by climate change, which is also negatively affecting the Indian economy in a number of areas, most notably the agriculture sector. Planting, transplanting, weeding, thinning, harvesting, processing, selling, winnowing, storing, kitchen gardening, and other methods are some of the crop production techniques that farmers use. Unpredictable, and chaotic climate change is threatening agricultural productivity and the stability of rural communities' livelihoods. Farmers that are aware of these disruptive variables may be able to lessen the detrimental effects of climate change on agriculture. This study aimed to evaluate farmers' perceptions regarding the impacts of climate change on agriculture within the Almora district of Uttarakhand, India. The study was carried out in the Almora district of Uttarakhand state. Purposive sampling technique and Random sampling was used to select the study area and samples. Total sample size was 120. Data on perception of farmers about impact of climate change reveals that 63 percent of respondents reported a decrease in overall food production. Results on change in availability of water for irrigation revealed that there was no change as reported by 43.33 percent of respondents in Almora district. Availability of drinking water decreased in Almora (54 %). The frequency of forest fire was reported to be increased as reported by respondents (65 %). When we talk about crop diversity and climate change, it was found that crop diversity decreases as reported by majority of respondents (82%) in Almora showing that crop rotation and other practices were not followed properly. The wild animal attack to the crop was increased in present time and causes serious damage to the crop. To effectively address these difficulties, policy measures and guidelines can be designed with more insight if location-specific farmers' perceptions and adaptive behaviors are understood.
Spatial Distribution of Public Lower Secondary School and its Impact on Students’ Enrolment in Ogun Central Senatorial District Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Akintunde Ogunyemi Samson , Francis Okeke I. , Bolarinwa Balogun Olutayo , Adeyemi Samson Samuel , Damulak Dakung Peter , Olaniyi Elugoke Nicholas , Arinzechukwu Owoh Charles
Published: November 2024

Given the quest for universal basic education, the large enrolments in the Nigerian secondary educational institutions has resulted in the problem of over-crowded classes, shortage of teachers and shortages of classroom, which portend enormous challenges to the development of the educational sector in Ogun state. Using Ogun Central as a case study, the study identified the spatial pattern of the schools; analyzing students’ enrolment trends in the area, and identifying the factors associated with the observed pattern. Spatial analysis tool in ArcGIS was used to analyze both the spatial accessibility index and the students’ annual enrolment trend of the lower secondary school in the area. The result of the nearest neighbor analysis for the spatial pattern of lower secondary schools in the study revealed a random pattern. This pattern implies that the lower secondary schools are located far from one another, which indicates, that for students to attend the schools, most of them need to cover long distances. The spatial distribution of junior secondary school is influenced by socioeconomic status, environmental factors, demographic characteristics, transportation infrastructure, and geographic accessibility, which are key determinants of educational equity. Linear regression analysis was employed to identify trends and predict future enrollments of students. Further, the results of the trend analysis of enrolments of students in the zone from 2020 – 2023 reveal a negative trend. This implies a decrease in students’ enrolment as the year increases. The four years (2020 – 2023) annual trend of enrolments in the zone is represented by the negative trend y = -3180.3x + 99400. This result suggests that the students’ enrolments in the zone would gradually keep decreasing as time goes on if quick remedial actions are not taken. However, factors such as shortage of teachers, shortage of classrooms, COVID-19, insufficient infrastructural facilities and fuel subsidy removal could be responsible for the negative enrolment trend
Application and Fundamentals of Liquid–Liquid Extraction Processes: Purification of Biologicals, Botanicals, and Strategic Metals
Authors: Schmidt Axel , Strube Jochen
Published: September 2018

Liquid–liquid extraction, sometimes also called solvent extraction, is an important separation technology for a variety of applications in the chemical process industry, including the petrochemical, food, pharmaceutical, and metal industries.

In this article, the basics of liquid–liquid extraction are discussed, including phase formation and equilibrium representation. Apparatus characteristics and advice on suitable solvent selection are given. Finally, examples of applications from the fields of biotechnology, phytoprocesses, and hydrometallurgy are presented and current and future developments and trends are discussed.
Sibling bullying at 12 years and high‐risk behavior in early adulthood: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Dantchev Slava , Wolke Dieter
Published: September 2018

Emerging evidence suggests that sibling aggression is associated with the development of high‐risk behavior. This study investigated the relationship between sibling bullying perpetration and victimization in early adolescence and high‐risk behavior in early adulthood. Sibling bullying was assessed at 12 years in 6,988 individuals from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, a birth cohort based in the UK and high‐risk behavioral outcomes were assessed at 18–20 years. Frequent sibling bullying perpetration predicted antisocial behavior (OR = 1.74; 95%CI, 1.38–2.20), while frequent sibling bullying victimization increased the odds of nicotine dependence (OR = 2.87; 95%CI, 1.55–5.29), even after accounting for peer bullying and parent maltreatment. Categorical analysis revealed that particularly bullies and bully‐victims were at risk of developing high‐risk behavior. Finally, this study found that adolescents who were involved in bullying perpetration across multiple contexts (home and school) had the highest odds of reporting antisocial behavior (OR = 3.05; 95%CI, 2.09–4.44), criminal involvement (OR = 2.12; 95%CI, 1.23–3.66), and illicit drug use (OR = 2.11; 95%CI, 1.44–3.08). Findings from this study suggest that sibling bullying perpetration may be a marker of or a contributory factor along the developmental trajectory to antisocial behavior problems. Intervention studies are needed in order to test whether reducing sibling bullying can alleviate long‐term adverse social and behavioral outcomes.
Supported Lipid Bilayers on Fluorescent Nanodiamonds: A Structurally Defined and Versatile Coating for Bioapplications
Authors: Vavra Jan , Rehor Ivan , Rendler Torsten , Jani Mona , Bednar Jan , Baksh Michael M. , Zappe Andrea , Wrachtrup Joerg , Cigler Petr
Published: September 2018

Fluorescent nanodiamonds with nitrogen‐vacancy (NV) centers respond to local changes in electric and magnetic fields. These responses can be read optically as changes in fluorescence. NV centers do not suffer from photoblinking or photobleaching, making nanodiamonds a viable platform for long‐term imaging of processes inside living cells. However, for any bioapplication, the surface of these particles must be modified to prevent aggregation and nonspecific protein adsorption and to effectively transduce the changes in local environment to NV center. Modular biomimetic interface has been developed on nanodiamonds with remarkable sensitivity for relaxometric readout that takes advantage of self‐assembled phospholipid bilayers supported by the nanoparticle surface. This rapid and robust approach provides synthetic pathway to tunable composition, demonstrated by tuning surface charge and content of spin labels on nanodiamond. The supported phospholipid bilayer interface increases the detection sensitivity about one‐order‐of‐magnitude. Also, a theoretical model of the system is provided, which shows excellent agreement with experimental results. Merging biocompatibility, modularity, and outstanding spin sensitivity in one nanomaterial provides a foundation for development of multifunctional nanoparticles suitable for highly sensitive monitoring of local magnetic field fluctuations and paramagnetic species under physiological conditions.
Restickable Oxide Neuromorphic Transistors with Spike‐Timing‐Dependent Plasticity and Pavlovian Associative Learning Activities
Authors: Yu Fei , Zhu Li Qiang , Xiao Hui , Gao Wan Tian , Guo Yan Bo
Published: September 2018

In neural system, both spike‐timing‐dependent plasticity (STDP) and conditioned reflex are vital synaptic learning mechanisms to regulate advanced neural activities, being associated with temporally coupled stimuli. Thus, realization of STDP and conditioned reflex on a single solid‐state device may open up new opportunities for neuromorphic engineering. Here, restickable chitosan‐gated oxide neuromorphic transistors are fabricated on polyimide tape. Based on protonic electrochemical doping/de‐doping processes at indium‐tin‐oxide/chitosan interfaces, four types of STDP learning rules are successfully demonstrated, including Hebbian STDP, anti‐Hebbian STDP, symmetrical STDP, and visual STDP. Trained with Hebbian STDP, Pavlovian associative learning and extinction behaviors are demonstrated successfully on a single‐oxide neuromorphic transistor. No complex device circuits are needed. It is interesting to note here that the devices can be pasted on different holders with different curvature radii without degrading the transistor performances and STDP learning rules. Moreover, the proposed oxide neuromorphic transistors can be dissolved in deionized water easily. The results here indicate potential applications of the proposed restickable oxide neuromorphic transistors in flexible neuromorphic cognitive platforms.
Atomic‐Scale Observation of LiFePO4 and LiCoO2 Dissolution Behavior in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Byeon Pilgyu , Bae Hyung Bin , Chung Hee‐Suk , Lee Sang‐Gil , Kim Jin‐Gyu , Lee Hyeon Jeong , Choi Jang Wook , Chung Sung‐Yoon
Published: September 2018

Understanding the atomic structure variation at the surface of electrode materials in contact with an electrolyte is an essential step toward achieving better electrochemical performance of rechargeable cells. Different types of water‐based aqueous solutions are suggested as alternative electrolytes to the currently used flammable organic solvents in Li‐ion batteries. However, most research on aqueous rechargeable Li‐ion cells has largely focused on the synthetic processing of materials and resulting electrochemical properties rather than in‐depth atomic‐level observation on the electrode surface where the initial charge transfer and the (de)intercalation reaction take place. By using LiFePO4 and LiCoO2 single crystals, serious P and Co dissolution from LiFePO4 and LiCoO2 into aqueous solutions without any electrochemical cycling is identified. Furthermore, both strong temperature‐dependent behavior of P dissolution in LiFePO4 and very unusual occupancy of Co in the tetrahedral interstices in LiCoO2 are directly demonstrated via atomic‐scale (scanning) transmission electron microscopy. Ab initio density functional theory calculations also reveal that this tetrahedral‐site occupation is stabilized when cation vacancies are simultaneously present in both Li and Co sites. The findings in this work emphasize the significance of direct observation on the atomic structure variation and local stability of the cathode materials.
Tunable Stimuli‐Responsive Color‐Change Properties of Layered Organic Composites
Authors: Takeuchi Machi , Gnanasekaran Karthikeyan , Friedrich Heiner , Imai Hiroaki , Sommerdijk Nico A. J. M. , Oaki Yuya
Published: September 2018

Stimuli‐responsive properties of soft materials originate from dynamic structure changes. Layered polydiacetylene (PDA) shows color‐change properties with the application of external stimuli, such as thermal and mechanical stresses. Layered organic materials possessing intercalation capabilities and dynamic properties have potentials for tuning their structures and properties by the intercalated guests. A variety of sensing and imaging devices can be developed by control of the stimuli responsivity. Here, the key structures, processes, and mechanisms for tuning the stimuli‐responsive color‐change properties of layered PDA are studied by in situ analyses with heating and cooling. The in situ analyses indicate that heating initiates thermal motion of the alkyl side chains of the PDA main chain in the host layers around 60 °C, regardless of the type of intercalated guests. Further heating induces torsion of the PDA main chain leading to color changes at different temperatures, depending on the types of the intercalated guest. Then, the layered structure is irreversibly deformed with lowering the crystallinity. The results indicate that the stimuli‐responsive color‐change properties are controlled by the rigidity of the layered structures consisting of the host layers and guests. The control strategy based on rigidity tuning can be applied to a variety of soft materials with stimuli responsivity.
An Aqueous Rechargeable Zinc‐Organic Battery with Hybrid Mechanism
Authors: Wan Fang , Zhang Linlin , Wang Xinyu , Bi Songshan , Niu Zhiqiang , Chen Jun
Published: September 2018

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries have been considered as potential energy storage devices owing to their high safety and low cost. Traditional zinc‐ion batteries often implement a typical Zn2+ insertion/extraction mechanism. Compared with traditional Zn2+ insertion/extraction mechanism, supercapacitor‐liked dual‐ion mechanism often endow the batteries with higher operating voltage, better rate capability, and longer cycle life. Herein, aqueous Zn/polyaniline batteries are developed, which can combine the Zn2+ insertion/extraction and dual‐ion mechanisms. The Zn/polyaniline batteries deliver excellent electrochemical performance, especially a long cycle life up to 3000 cycles with high‐capacity retention of 92%. This hybrid mechanism provides a promising battery chemistry. Furthermore, Zn/polyaniline batteries can be assembled into quasi‐solid‐state soft‐packaged and cable‐type configurations and display stable electrochemical performance even under different bending states, showing potential applications for flexible electronics.
Alignment‐Free Liquid‐Capsule Pressure Sensor for Cardiovascular Monitoring
Authors: Fan Xiangyu , Huang Yan , Ding Xiaorong , Luo Ningqi , Li Chenglin , Zhao Ni , Chen Shih‐Chi
Published: September 2018

Wearable pressure sensors enable long‐term real‐time health monitoring in a noninvasive and power‐efficient way; however, the sensors are often required to be precisely applied at the optimal measurement spot, e.g., nearby radial artery, for signal acquisition, causing inconvenience for untrained users or the elders. In this paper, a wearable liquid‐capsule sensor platform embedded with a piezo‐resistive pressure sensor is presented for continuous, accurate, and alignment‐relaxed physiological monitoring, i.e., heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) tracking. The flexible capsule design ensures comfort and good device conformation to any skin regions. For HR and BP measurements, experiments are performed on 12 human subjects. The results show that the capsuled sensor can continuously track: 1) HR with a mean absolute difference (MAD) of 0.88 beats per minute (bpm) and 2) BP with a MAD<3 mmHg for both diastolic and systolic blood pressure. The new liquid‐capsule‐based sensor platform may help to realize an accurate, flexible, robust, and low‐power solution for next‐generation wearable health monitoring devices.
Interface Structure and Evolution of Dinaphthothienothiophene (DNTT) Films on Noble Metal Substrates
Authors: Dreher Maximilian , Bischof Daniel , Widdascheck Felix , Huttner Andrea , Breuer Tobias , Witte Gregor
Published: September 2018

Dinaphthothienothiophene (DNTT) is a promising new organic semiconductor which combines high charge carrier mobility with chemical robustness. Although the properties of organic electronic devices are largely determined by the interfaces with electrodes, the interface between DNTT and metals is hardly studied so far. Here, the interface structures of DNTT on Ag(111) and multilayers are examined and they are compared with films grown on polycrystalline and (111) surfaces of silver and gold. In the seedlayer regime, two different interface structures formed by exclusively flatlying molecules and a herringbone arrangement are identified for increased coverages. Combining low energy electron diffraction, scanning tunneling microscopy, and X‐ray absorption measurements, precise structure data for both phases are derived and their respective adsorption energies are determined to explain why both phases are formed. On all examined surfaces, DNTT multilayers consist of discrete fibers reflecting a notable dewetting but exhibit different molecular orientations: Molecules are recumbently arranged on the (111) surfaces, but uprightly oriented on polycrystalline surfaces. Complementary work function measurements yield rather similar values for DNTT monolayers on single‐ and polycrystalline metal substrates, while distinct differences are found for thicker films. The results appear important for improved transistor geometries, in particular vertical field‐effect transistors.
Polarization‐Dependent Photocurrent of Black Phosphorus/Rhenium Disulfide Heterojunctions
Authors: Li Xiao‐Kuan , Gao Xiao‐Guang , Su Bao‐Wang , Xin Wei , Huang Kai‐Xuan , Jiang Xiao‐Qiang , Liu Zhi‐Bo , Tian Jian‐Guo
Published: September 2018

Van der Waals (vdW) heterojunctions of 2D layered materials possess excellent interface quality without the constraint of lattice mismatch, which enables the application of nanomaterials in electronic and optoelectronic devices. The anisotropy of 2D materials however, also plays an important role in the stacking process of vdW heterojunction. Black phosphorus (BP) and rhenium disulfide (ReS2), as two strong anisotropic 2D materials, have intrinsic in‐plane anisotropic properties that can be used in polarization‐sensitive photoelectric devices. Herein, two types of BP/ReS2 heterojunctions are stacked by controlling their crystal orientation, with the armchair (AC) direction of BP parallel to the b‐axis of ReS2 (ABJ) and zigzag (ZZ) direction of BP parallel to the b‐axis of ReS2 (ZBJ). ABJ exhibits stronger polarization‐dependent photocurrent with a polarized photocurrent ratio of 31, when polarized light is illuminated along the AC and ZZ directions. Our results suggest that this heterojunction has potential application in polarization‐dependent optoelectronic detection.
Hybrid Conducting Composite Films Based on Polypyrrole and Poly(2‐(diethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) Hydrogel Nanoparticles for Electrochemically Controlled Drug Delivery
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Pineda Eduart , Cáceres‐Vélez Paolin Rocio , Rodríguez‐Presa María José , Moya Sergio E. , Gervasi Claudio A. , Amalvy Javier I.
Published: September 2018

A 3D conductive hybrid film is fabricated based on poly 2‐(diethylamino) ethyl methacrylate (PDEA) nanoparticles with polypyrrole (PPy) as the conductive component. PDEA nanoparticles are deposited on a gold substrate by drop casting. Then, PPy is electrochemically grown through the hydrogel nanoparticles as a semi‐interpenetrating polymer network. PDEA hydrogel nanoparticles reversibly swell at low pH while PPy liberates H+ in the oxidized state. The oxidation of PPy is used to create an electrostimulated decrease in pH in the PDEA/PPy hybrid film that results in film swelling. The electrochemical properties of the hybrid conductive composite film are studied through cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Doxorubicin (Dox) as model drug is encapsulated in the PDEA/PPy hybrid composite film by a pH switch. Drug electroliberation is investigated at different applied potentials from −0.65 to +0.65 V. The amount of Dox released shows a dependence on the applied potential and the duration of the electrical stimuli. The (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) tetrazolium reduction assay is conducted to evaluate the impact of the electrocontrolled release of Dox on the proliferation of the A549 cell line, showing a decrease in cell viability, proportional to the applied potential and its duration.
Largely Lowered Transition Temperature of a VO2/Carbon Hybrid Phase Change Material with High Thermal Emissivity Switching Ability and Near Infrared Regulations
Authors: Wang Shancheng , Liu Guowei , Hu Peng , Zhou Yang , Ke Yujie , Li Chuanchang , Chen Jian , Cao Tun , Long Yi
Published: September 2018

Vanadium oxide (VO2) as a phase changing material possesses abrupt infrared (IR) transmission and thermal emissivity changing during the metal–insulator transition across transition temperature (τc) of 68 °C. However, the high τc, moderate IR transmission and emissivity regulating ability limits its applications in various fields. A VO2/carbon hybrid phase change material fabricated via homemade plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition is reported. The material shows a best reported thermal emissivity contrast (0.44) among the experimental values, a largely lowered τc (45 °C), promising a near IR‐regulation ability with enhanced photothermal effect in smart windows applications. The theoretical calculation results proved that the improvement of emissivity contrast is due to the hybridization of carbon. This work provides a new approach to synthesize VO2 hybrid materials, which have wide applications in camouflage, sensing, and smart windows.
Exploring Indium‐Based Ternary Thiospinel as Conceivable High‐Potential Air‐Cathode for Rechargeable Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Fu Gengtao , Wang Jie , Chen Yifan , Liu Yu , Tang Yawen , Goodenough John B. , Lee Jong‐Min
Published: September 2018

Reversible oxygen reactions in Zn–air batteries require cost‐effective and highly‐active bifunctional electrocatalysts to substitute traditional noble‐metal based catalysts. Herein, a new and promising electrocatalytic material, ternary CoIn2S4 thiospinel, is demonstrated for effectively catalyzing oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reactions (ORR and OER) with S‐doped reduced graphene oxide (S‐rGO) as an electronic conductor. Compared with Co9S8/S‐rGO (without In doping), the newly developed CoIn2S4/S‐rGO reveals superior electrocatalytic properties for the ORR (half‐wave potential of 0.83 V) and OER (overpotential of 0.37 V at 10 mA cm−2), demonstrating that the introduction of In can promote the reversible oxygen electrode reactions of CoIn2S4. The superior experimentally‐observed electrocatalytic properties are corroborated via density function theory investigations. Meanwhile, the synergistic improvements in the bifunctional activities resulting from the combination of CoIn2S4 and S‐rGO are also confirmed. As a proof of concept, home‐made Zn–air cells are assembled with CoIn2S4/S‐rGO as an air‐cathode. The developed Zn–air cells exhibit a high peak power density (133 mW cm−2) with an energy density of 951 Wh kgZn−1 and robust cycling stability over 150 cycles for 50 h, exceeding of those commercial Pt/C+RuO2 which highlights the practical viability of CoIn2S4/S‐rGO for rechargeable Zn–air batteries.
The two cultures of health and social care might perhaps be brought together by assets
Authors: Rahman Shibley
Published: September 2018

Arguably, there are two sides to the frailty “coin,” with only one culture dominated by deficits. Certainly, as cells age, they develop deficits as a result of the accumulation of unrepaired cellular and molecular damage; however, the factors that make people well or healthy are important in defending against deficits and building up resilience, and need to be routinely discussed with patients. I argue that all health and social care professionals should feel confident in exploring assets or more “positive aspects” of living, and this common language could even drive integration between person‐centered services.
Chiral Bifunctional Ferrocenylphosphine‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Allylic Alkylation of Morita−Baylis−Hillman Carbonates with Pyrazolin‐5‐ones
Authors: Luo Wenjun , Song Dingguo , Fang Lu , Nian Sanfei , Hou Huacui , Ling Fei , Zhong Weihui
Published: September 2018

A chiral bifunctional ferrocenylphosphine catalyzed asymmetric allylic alkylation of Morita−Baylis−Hillman (MBH) carbonates with pyrazolin‐5‐ones was developed. The reaction afforded the desired pyrazolone derivatives in moderate to good yields (up to 80%), and with high enantioselectivities (up to 98% ee).
Phase‐Retrieval Algebraic Solution Based on Window Modulation
Authors: Huang Jianhui , Jin Huiliang , Ye Qian , Meng Guoxiang
Published: September 2018

Phase retrieval is to recover the object amplitude and phase from the diffraction patterns. Here, an algebraic method is presented to solve the phase retrieval problems of arbitrary 2D complex‐valued objects, without the requirements of numerous iterations, object prior knowledge, and precise experimental setups. The key step is to extract the far‐field phase from the diffraction patterns. It is demonstrated by rigorous theoretical derivation that three window‐shaped modulations are sufficient to establish a system of linear equations related to the far‐field phase, from which the far‐field phase is solved approximately with only algebraic calculations. Then, an efficient iteration scheme is designed to optimize the direct approximate solution. After a few iterations, the direct solution is improved quickly and very close to the exact solution. With the advantages of high speed and high accuracy to general phase retrieval problems, the proposed algebraic method may be helpful to the Fourier imaging systems in which interferometric techniques are not applicable.
Magnetite Fe3O4 Has no Intrinsic Peroxidase Activity, and Is Probably not Involved in Alzheimer's Oxidative Stress
Authors: Gumpelmayer Michelle , Nguyen Michel , Molnár Gábor , Bousseksou Azzedine , Meunier Bernard , Robert Anne
Published: September 2018

Despite stated in some highly cited articles, magnetite is devoided of peroxidase activity. In fact, this very stable mixed valence FeIIO⋅FeIII2O3 complex is not catalytically competent to oxidize standard peroxidase substrates, especially at the biologically relevant pH value of 7.4. In addition, magnetite whose deleterious redox activity has been suspected in Alzheimer's disease brain damages, does not significantly interact with amyloid peptide Aβ in vitro, and is not able to induce, either in the presence or absence of Aβ, the reductive activation of dioxygen, the first step of an oxidative stress. In fact, this highly insoluble mineral iron derivative is probably not involved in the oxidative damage of brain neurons of patients with AD.
A Stereodynamic Redox‐Interconversion Network of Vicinal Tertiary and Quaternary Carbon Stereocenters in Hydroquinone–Quinone Hybrid Dihydrobenzofurans
Authors: Storch Golo , Kim Byoungmoo , Mercado Brandon Q. , Miller Scott J.
Published: September 2018

Reversible redox processes involving hydroquinones and quinones are ubiquitous in biological reaction networks, materials science, and catalysis. While extensively studied in intermolecular settings, less is known about intramolecular scenarios. Herein, we report hydroquinone–quinone hybrid molecules that form two‐stereocenter dihydrobenzofurans via intramolecular cyclization under thermodynamic control. A π‐methylhistidine peptide‐catalyzed kinetic resolution allowed us to study the stereodynamic behavior of enantio‐ and diastereo‐enriched dihydrofurans. In the course of this study, it was revealed that a reversible intramolecular redox‐interconversion network connects all four possible stereoisomers via inversion of a quaternary carbon stereocenter without achiral intermediates. As a result, these findings on hydroquinone‐quinone hybrid molecules provide insights into potential natural origin and synthetic access of the common dihydrobenzofuran motif.
Total Syntheses of Bisdehydroneostemoninine and Bisdehydrostemoninine by Catalytic Carbonylative Spirolactonization
Authors: Ma Kaiqing , Yin Xianglin , Dai Mingji
Published: September 2018

The first total syntheses of the stemona alkaloids bisdehydroneostemoninine and bisdehydrostemoninine in racemic forms have been achieved. The synthetic strategy features a novel palladium‐catalyzed carbonylative spirolactonization of a hydroxycyclopropanol to rapidly construct the oxaspirolactone moiety. It also features a Lewis acid promoted tandem Friedel–Crafts cyclization and lactonization to form the 5‐7‐5 tricyclic core of the target stemona alkaloids.
Palladium/Graphitic Carbon Nitride (g‐C3N4) Stabilized Emulsion Microreactor as a Store for Hydrogen from Ammonia Borane for Use in Alkene Hydrogenation
Authors: Han Chenhui , Meng Peng , Waclawik Eric R. , Zhang Chao , Li Xin‐Hao , Yang Hengquan , Antonietti Markus , Xu Jingsan
Published: September 2018

Direct hydrogenation of C=C double bonds is a basic transformation in organic chemistry which is vanishing from simple practice because of the need for pressurized hydrogen. Ammonia borane (AB) has emerged as a hydrogen source through its safety and high hydrogen content. However, in conventional systems the hydrogen liberated from the high‐cost AB cannot be fully utilized. Herein, we develop a novel Pd/g‐C3N4stabilized Pickering emulsion microreactor, in which alkenes are hydrogenated in the oil phase with hydrogen originating from AB in the water phase, catalysed by the Pd nanoparticles at the interfaces. This approach is advantageous for more economical hydrogen utilization over conventional systems. The emulsion microreactor can be applied to a range of alkene substrates, with the conversion rates achieving >95 % by a simple modification.
Simple Alkaline‐Earth Metal Catalysts for Effective Alkene Hydrogenation
Authors: Bauer Heiko , Alonso Mercedes , Fischer Christian , Rösch Bastian , Elsen Holger , Harder Sjoerd
Published: September 2018

Alkaline earth metal amides (AeN′′2: Ae=Ca, Sr, Ba, N′′=N(SiMe3)2) catalyze alkene hydrogenation (80–120 °C, 1–6 bar H2, 1–10 mol % cat.), with the activity increasing with metal size. Various activated C=C bonds (styrene, p‐MeO‐styrene, α‐Me‐styrene, Ph2C=CH2, trans‐stilbene, cyclohexadiene, 1‐Ph‐cyclohexene), semi‐activated C=C bonds (Me3SiCH=CH2, norbornadiene), or non‐activated (isolated) C=C bonds (norbornene, 4‐vinylcyclohexene, 1‐hexene) could be reduced. The results show that neutral Ca or Ba catalysts are active in the challenging hydrogenation of isolated double bonds. For activated alkenes (e.g. styrene), polymerization is fully suppressed due to fast protonation of the highly reactive benzyl intermediate by N′′H (formed in the catalyst initiation). Using cyclohexadiene as the H source, the first Ae metal catalyzed H‐transfer hydrogenation is reported. DFT calculations on styrene hydrogenation using CaN′′2 show that styrene oligomerization competes with styrene hydrogenation. Calculations also show that protonation of the benzylcalcium intermediate with N′′H is a low‐energy escape route, thus avoiding oligomerization.