bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical properties enhancement with multilayer coating technique of additive‐enhanced zinc oxide nanostructure for fiber Bragg grating humidity sensor
Authors: Riza Muhammad Arif , Go Yun Ii , Maier Robert R. J. , Harun Sulaiman Wadi , Anas Siti Barirah Ahmad
Published: October 2021

A humidity sensing material is usually hygroscopic in nature and can allow sites for water adsorption. The hygroscopic material is usually coated in various devices for sensing enhancement. A zinc oxide additive‐enhanced nanostructure (ZnO‐HMT) was coated repeatedly on fiber Bragg grating (FBG) have been fabricated. The sensing material was synthesized for the purpose of characterizing its capability in enhancement of relative humidity sensing of uniformly grated core optical fibers with multiple layers of sensing layer. The coating and annealing process was repeated for at least three times resulting three layers of ZnO‐HMT coated on an FBG fiber. Observed microscopy images showed that the thickest coating began to form larger lumps on the sensor surface, but absence of any gaps present. Reflectivity power was observed to be greatest for triple layered samples due to the coating possibly containing the light propagation and prevent evanescent leakages. Analysis with optical spectrum analyzer detects notable wavelength shifts at sensing range of 60–80 %RH and a significant increase of sensitivity for triple layered samples.
Sperm MMP‐2 is indispensable for fast electrical block to polyspermy at fertilization in Xenopus tropicalis
Authors: Watabe Mami , Hiraiwa Azusa , Sakai Mami , Ueno Tomoyo , Ueno Shuichi , Nakajima Keisuke , Yaoita Yoshio , Iwao Yasuhiro
Published: October 2021

Sperm matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) is necessary for frog fertilization. Monospermy is ensured by a fast, electrical block to polyspermy mediated by a positive fertilization potential. To determine the role of the MMP‐2 hemopexin domain (HPX) in a fast block to polyspermy during fertilization of the frog, Xenopus tropicalis, we prepared mutant frogs deficient in mmp2 gene using the transcription activator‐like effector nuclease method. mmp2 ΔHPX (−/−) sperm without MMP‐2 protein were able to fertilize wild‐type (WT; +/+) eggs. However, polyspermy occurred in some eggs. The mutant sperm generated a normal fertilization potential amounting to 10 mV, and were able to fertilize eggs at 10 mV, at which WT sperm never fertilized. Sensitivity during voltage‐dependent fertilization decreased in mutant sperm. This study demonstrates for the first time that the genetic alteration of the MMP‐2 molecule in sperm causes polyspermy during fertilization of a monospermic species. Our findings provide reliable evidence that sperm MMP‐2 is indispensable for the fast, electrical block to polyspermy during Xenopus fertilization.
Biological roles of l‐carnitine in oocyte and early embryo development
Authors: Li Jiajian , Liu Lingyan , Weng Jing , Yin Tai‐lang , Yang Jing , Feng Huai L.
Published: October 2021

Poor oocyte quality is responsible for female infertility. Multiple studies have been carried out to find supplements to enhance oocyte quality and mitigate infertility problems. l‐carnitine and its derivatives have diverse roles in developing oocytes and early embryos. This review focuses on the in vitro and in vivo studies that using
l‐carnitine alone or in combination with other supplements for oocyte quality enhancement. The key roles of
l‐carnitine in oocyte quality and embryo growth were summarized, and the underlying mechanism was also elucidated.
l‐carnitine helps in the lipid metabolism process by controlling the transfer of fatty acids to mitochondria for β‐oxidation.
l‐carnitine modulates glucose metabolism and enhances respiratory chain enzyme activity. Furthermore, it acts as an antioxidant to prevent oxidative damage and inhibit apoptosis, a signal in response to oxidative stress. Results show the potential of
l‐carnitine as a potential agent in assisted reproductive technology to improve oocyte quality and the subsequent embryonic development.
Dual‐phase imaging of cardiac metabolism using hyperpolarized pyruvate
Authors: Ma Junjie , Malloy Craig R. , Pena Salvador , Harrison Crystal E. , Ratnakar James , Zaha Vlad G. , Park Jae Mo
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Previous cardiac imaging studies using hyperpolarized (HP) [1‐13C]pyruvate were acquired at end‐diastole (ED). Little is known about the interaction between cardiac cycle and metabolite content in the myocardium. In this study, we compared images of HP pyruvate and products at end‐systole (ES) and ED.

Methods

A dual‐phase 13C MRI sequence was implemented to acquire two sequential HP images within a single cardiac cycle at ES and ED during successive R‐R intervals in an interleaved manner. Each healthy volunteer (N = 3) received two injections of HP [1‐13C]pyruvate for the dual‐phase imaging on the short‐axis and the vertical long‐axis planes. Spatial distribution of HP 13C metabolites at each cardiac phase was correlated to multiphase 1H MRI to confirm the mechanical changes. Ratios of myocardial HP metabolites were compared between ES and ED. Segmental analysis was performed on the midcavity short‐axis plane.

Results

In addition to mechanical changes, metabolic profiles of the heart detected by HP [1‐13C]pyruvate differed between ES and ED. The myocardial signal of [13C]bicarbonate relative to [1‐13C]lactate was significantly smaller at ED than the ratio at ES (p < .05), particularly in mid‐anterior and mid‐inferoseptal segments. The distinct metabolic profiles in the myocardium likely reflect the technical aspects of the imaging approach such as the coronary flow in addition to the cyclical changes in metabolism.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that metabolic profiles of the heart, measured by HP [1‐13C]pyruvate, are affected by the cardiac cycle in which that the data are acquired.
Long‐term postoperative follow‐up results of transobturator autologous rectus fascial sling versus transobturator tension‐free vaginal tapes for female stress urinary incontinence: Randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Kilinc Muhammet F. , Yildiz Yildiray , Hascicek Ahmet M. , Doluoglu Omer G. , Tokat Eda
Published: October 2021

Aims

To evaluate the outcomes of a new surgical technique for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Methods

This randomized study included 132 index patients from January 2017 to May 2021, 60 applied with autologous facia and 60 with transobturator tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT‐O). The primary endpoint was dryness (negative stress test and 0 pad use per day) and this was assessed at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. The secondary endpoints were the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire short form (ICIQ‐SF) and the urinary incontinence quality of life (QoL) at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months.

Results

The dryness rate at 24 months was 92.4% (49/53) for patients with transobturator autologous rectus fascial sling (TO‐AFS) and 94.6% (53/56) for those with TVT‐O (p = 0.47). No difference was determined between the TO‐AFS and TVT‐O groups in respect of the ICIQ‐SF and QoL scores at 2 years postoperatively (p = 0.87). There were five postoperative complications in the TO‐AFS group (one urinary retention, one hematoma at suprapubic incision line, and three intermittent groin pains) and four in the TVT‐O group (four persistent groin pain) (p = 0.98).

Conclusions

The objective cure rates of the 24‐month outcomes of TO‐AFS indicate that this novel surgical technique seems to be a highly effective, safe, and feasible procedure for the treatment of SUI, but further studies including long‐term follow‐up are mandatory to confirm these preliminary data.
Technical note—Knowledge gradient for selection with covariates: Consistency and computation
Authors: Ding Liang , Hong L. Jeff , Shen Haihui , Zhang Xiaowei
Published: October 2021

Knowledge gradient is a design principle for developing Bayesian sequential sampling policies to solve optimization problems. In this paper, we consider the ranking and selection problem in the presence of covariates, where the best alternative is not universal but depends on the covariates. In this context, we prove that under minimal assumptions, the sampling policy based on knowledge gradient is consistent, in the sense that following the policy the best alternative as a function of the covariates will be identified almost surely as the number of samples grows. We also propose a stochastic gradient ascent algorithm for computing the sampling policy and demonstrate its performance via numerical experiments.
Systematic review of clinicians’ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about nutrition in intensive care
Authors: Lyons Gemma C. E. , Summers Matthew J. , Marshall Andrea P. , Chapple Lee‐anne S.
Published: October 2021

Nutrition is a key component of care for critically ill patients; yet nutrition delivery is below international recommendations. In order to improve nutrition delivery to critically ill patients, an understanding of the barriers that prevent guideline adherence is required. It is known that clinicians’ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of the role of nutrition may act as a potential barrier to nutrition delivery, but whether this remains true in critical care is unknown. The aim of this systematic scoping review was to summarize the literature exploring the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of clinicians around nutrition support in critically ill patients. A search of four online databases (MEDLINE via Ovid, Emcare via Ovid, PsycINFO, and CINAHL via EBSCOhost) was conducted on August 14, 2020, to identify literature that reported on clinicians’ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of nutrition in adult intensive care patients. Data were extracted on study and participant characteristics, methodology, and key study outcomes related to nutrition. Eighteen articles met eligibility criteria and were included in the review. Key findings included the following: nutrition was seen as a priority that ranked below life‐saving interventions; differences in perceived clinician responsibilities exist; common barriers to nutrition delivery included inadequate resourcing, lack of nutrition protocols, and gastrointestinal intolerance; and identified facilitators included nutrition education and the presence of a supportive multidisciplinary team. The implementation of nutrition protocols, enhanced clinical nutrition education, and further clarification of roles and responsibilities pertaining to nutrition may assist in improving nutrition delivery in critical care.
Diet and urbanisation in medieval Holland. Studying dietary change through carious lesions and stable isotope analysis
Authors: Schats Rachel , van Hattum IJk , Kootker Lisette M. , Hoogland Menno L.P. , Waters‐Rist Andrea L.
Published: October 2021

In the late medieval period, Holland experienced substantial socio‐economic change. While the region was largely undeveloped prior to 1200 CE, the period after was characterised by extensive urbanisation and flourishing international trade, changes that would have impacted many aspects of life. This paper investigates the effect of these changes on diet by comparing skeletal collections from the early/central medieval rural village of Blokhuizen (800–1200 CE) to the late medieval urban town of Alkmaar (1448–1572 CE) using a combination of the prevalence and location of carious lesions (nteeth = 3475) and stable carbon and nitrogen isotope data (n = 50). Results show that the urban Alkmaar population had a significantly higher caries frequency (7.4% vs. 16.1%), starting at a younger age. Moreover, Alkmaar had significantly more approximal caries. These results point to increased consumption of cariogenic products, such as sugars and starches, by the urban citizens. Dietary differences are also demonstrated by the stable isotope data. Alkmaar individuals have significantly enrichedδ15N ratios and more variableδ13C ratios compared with rural Blokhuizen. The elevatedδ15N values may be due to increased consumption of fish or animals such as omnivorous pigs and chickens. The combination of caries and isotopic data points to clear changes in diet suggesting that urban individuals in the late medieval period had a substantially different diet compared with early rural inhabitants from the same area. Specifically, an increase in market dependence, availability of international trade products, and the growth of commercial fishing in the late medieval period may have contributed to this dietary shift. Future research should include a late medieval rural population to better understand the effects of late medieval socio‐economic developments outside of the urban environment. This study demonstrates that the integration of palaeopathology and stable isotopic research provides a more complete understanding of dietary changes in medieval Holland.
Furfural and 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural Production from Sugar Mixture Using Deep Eutectic Solvent/MIBK System
Authors: Rusanen Annu , Lappalainen Katja , Kärkkäinen Johanna , Lassi Ulla
Published: October 2021

Choline chloride (ChCl) / glycolic acid (GA) deep eutectic solvent (DES) media with high water content but without any additional catalyst are introduced in furfural and 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) production. The effects of water content, reaction time, and reaction temperature are investigated with two feedstocks: a glucose/xylose mixture and birch sawdust. Based on the results, 10 equivalent quantities of water (32.9 wt.%) were revealed to be beneficial for conversions without rupturing the DES structure. The optimal reaction conditions were 160 °C and 10 minutes for the sugar mixture and 170 °C and 10 minutes for birch sawdust in a microwave reactor. High furfural yields were achieved, namely 62 % from the sugar mixture and 37.5 % from birch sawdust. HMF yields were low, but since the characterization of the solid residue of sawdust, after DES treatment, was revealed to contain only cellulose (49 %) and lignin (52 %), the treatment could be potentially utilized in a biorefinery concept where the main products are obtained from the cellulose fraction. Extraction of products into the organic phase (methyl isobutyl ketone, MIBK) during the reaction enabled the recycling of the DES phase, and yields remained high for three runs of recycling.
An Operator Looks Back at 45 Years of Change
Authors: Forbes Steven
Published: October 2021

“Change”—this word defines my 45‐year career in utility operations. Over the years, I've learned that operators must make a conscious effort to understand the patterns and impacts of past practices to be successful in the present and future.
Texas AWWA Offers Award‐Winning Training for Advanced Treatment
Authors: Nix Daniel K. , Howe Mike
Published: October 2021

“If a man empties his purse into his head, no man can take it from him. An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”

—Benjamin Franklin

The Way to Wealth
Three reasons why expanded use of natural enemy solutions may offer sustainable control of human infections
Authors: Jones Isabel J. , Sokolow Susanne H. , De Leo Giulio A.
Published: October 2021

Many infectious pathogens spend a significant portion of their life cycles in the environment or in animal hosts, where ecological interactions with natural enemies may influence pathogen transmission to people. Yet, our understanding of natural enemy opportunities for human disease control is lacking, despite widespread uptake and success of natural enemy solutions for pest and parasite management in agriculture.

Here we explore three reasons why conserving, restoring or augmenting specific natural enemies in the environment could offer a promising complement to conventional clinical strategies to fight environmentally mediated pathogens and parasites. (a) Natural enemies of human infections abound in nature, largely understudied and undiscovered; (b) natural enemy solutions could provide ecological options for infectious disease control where conventional interventions are lacking; and, (c) many natural enemy solutions could provide important co‐benefits for conservation and human well‐being.

We illustrate these three arguments with a broad set of examples whereby natural enemies of human infections have been used or proposed to curb human disease burden, with some clear successes. However, the evidence base for most proposed solutions is sparse, and many opportunities likely remain undiscovered, highlighting opportunities for future research.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Response of grassland net primary productivity to dry and wet climatic events in four grassland types in Inner Mongolia
Authors: Hossain Md Lokman , Kabir Md Humayain , Nila Mst Umme Salma , Rubaiyat Ashik
Published: October 2021

Increasing frequency and intensity of climate extremes have profound impacts on grassland biodiversity functioning and stability. Using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) net primary productivity (NPP) data and standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index, we assessed the response of NPP to growing‐season and annual climate extremes and time‐lag of climatic conditions across four grassland types (meadow steppe, typical steppe, steppe desert, and desert steppe) in Inner Mongolia, China from the period 2000 to 2019. Results showed that annual NPP varied significantly across four grassland types, with the highest NPP in meadow steppe and the lowest in desert steppe. Annual NPP of all grassland types increased over the past 20 years, but NPP in meadow steppe and typical steppe decreased for the period 2012–2019. Irrespective of grassland type, the 1‐ and 2‐month time‐lag of climatic conditions showed significant effects on annual NPP. Growing‐season climate was found the better predictor of annual NPP in all grassland types than the annual climate. Compared with growing‐season normal climates, annual NPP was lowest in extreme dry events in all grasslands, while highest in extreme wet events in meadow steppe and typical steppe, and in moderate wet events in steppe desert and desert steppe. Typical steppe and steppe desert are highly vulnerable to the increasing intensity of climate extremes, as we found that the losses of NPP in these grasslands in extreme dry were almost double than that of moderate dry events. Surprisingly, for meadow steppe and desert steppe, the losses of NPP for both moderate and extreme dry events were almost the same, which highlights that a low‐intensity drought may have profound impacts on the annual NPP of these grasslands. The study provides the key insight in scientific basis to improve our understanding of the effects of climate extremes on grassland NPP, which is critical to sustainable management of grassland and maintain ecosystem stability.
Single‐point halogenation regulates supramolecular chirality in phenylalanine‐based co‐assembled systems
Authors: Zou Yunqing , Zhao Changli , Feng Chuanliang
Published: October 2021

The construction of chiral materials with precise chirality is of vital importance in biology and chemistry. Despite numerous chiral materials having been fabricated, it still remains a fundamental challenge to understand the chiral propensity with subtle changes of building blocks. Here, the chirality properties of an assembly from chiral phenylalanine gelators and achiral naphthalimide (NI) derivatives were successfully regulated, showing that a minimal difference on the fourth site of the halogenated NI induced great changes of the chirality characteristics of the assembly. The results suggested that hydrogen bonds and π–π stacking interactions are the driving forces of the assemblies, whereas different halogenations indeed lead to the subtle variety of hydrogen bonding interactions and stacking mode between the two molecules. This study provides feasible strategies for precisely modulating supramolecular chirality through single‐point halogenation. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Synthesis and optical properties of π‐conjugated polymers and oligomers bearing hexaphenylbenzene and tetraphenyl ethene units
Authors: Yamaguchi Isao , Fukumoto Daiki , Wang Aohan
Published: October 2021

π‐Conjugated polymers (CPs) and oligomers (COs) bearing hexaphenylbenzene (HPB) and tetraphenyl ethene (TPE) units were synthesized by Sonogashira and Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reactions. The optical properties of the CPs and COs were investigated by UV–vis, photoluminescence (PL), and fluorescence lifetime (τ) measurements. The PL intensities of the solutions of the CPs and COs synthesized by Sonogashira coupling were reduced upon addition of poor solvent like water, which is attributed to aggregation‐caused quenching. In contrast, the CP and COs bearing the TPE unit synthesized by Suzuki–Miyaura coupling exhibited aggregation‐induced emission enhancement in solution. This difference in fluorescence behavior is discussed herein in terms of the molecular sizes, conformations in solution, and τ values of the CPs and COs.
Is ResonantAcoustic Mixing® (RAM) a Game Changer for Manufacturing Solid Composite Rocket Propellants?
Authors: Wright Christopher J. , Wilkinson Peter J. , Gaulter Sally E. , Fossey Donald , Burn Andrew O. , Gill Philip P.
Published: October 2021

This study is a structured literature review of published ResonantAcoustic® Mixing (RAM) literature, considering the benefits and constraints of using RAM. Focussing on how this will affect the future production of rubbery composite rocket propellants. The main benefits of RAM were found to be shorter mixing time, versatility of mixing and ability to mix higher viscosities than conventional mixers. Facilitating the next generation of composite propellants with improved performance and mechanical properties. Mixed in‐situ RAM overcomes viscosity limitations by removing the casting process and has safety and environmental benefits, but does need to be tested at larger production scales. The implications of RAM production on the energetics qualification process was considered. A new framework was discussed based on understanding the entire product development process including ingredient properties, manufacturing processes, and linking this to product performance; through adoption of a digital twin approach with in‐situ monitoring. Future R&D focuses on process and material control through a validated model of the mixing mechanisms, linked to material properties and output performance. Validation with scaled up comparative studies and continuous in‐situ monitoring. A full list is provided in the conclusions. Overall RAM offers numerous benefits to mixing existing and new materials with large savings in time, cost, improved safety and is more environmentally friendly.
Recent Progress in Exploring the Magnetic Solids with Room‐Temperature Skyrmionic Spin Configurations
Authors: Ma Zhipan , Li Lingwei
Published: October 2021

Magnetic materials with skyrmionic spin configurations have been widely investigated in recent years owing to their promising applications for magnetic memory storage and logic circuits. Considering their practical applications, room‐temperature skyrmion‐hosting magnetic materials shall be investigated comprehensively. The characteristics of magnetic skyrmions are closely associated with the physical properties of the host magnetic materials. The symmetry of the crystal structure, magnetic order temperature, and geometric shape of magnetic materials significantly affect the formation and annihilation of magnetic skyrmions. In addition to the intrinsic properties of materials, detection methods are vital to the investigation of new materials. Herein, the techniques for detecting magnetic skyrmions are briefly summarized, and the results of room‐temperature magnetic skyrmion hosting magnetic solids (the artificial materials are not included) with different topological characteristics from recent years are presented.
Fabrication of Single‐Crystalline InSb‐on‐Insulator by Rapid Melt Growth
Authors: Menon Heera , Morgan Nicholas Paul , Hetherington Crispin , Athle Robin , Steer Matthew , Thayne Iain , Fontcuberta i Morral Anna , Borg Mattias
Published: October 2021

InSb has the smallest bandgap and highest electron mobility among III‐V semiconductors and is widely used for photodetectors and high‐frequency electronic applications. Integration of InSb directly on Si would drastically reduce the fabrication cost and enable new applications, however, it is very challenging due to its 19% lattice mismatch with Si. Herein, the integration of single‐crystalline InSb microstructures on insulator‐covered Si through rapid melt growth (RMG) is reported and specifically provides details on the fabrication process. The importance of achieving high‐quality conformal capping layers at low thermal budget to contain the InSb melt is assessed when the sample is annealed. The importance of ensuring a pristine Si seed area to achieve single‐crystalline InSb is illustrated and demonstrated here for the first time.
HPLC‐MS and UV–Visible Coupled Analysis of Methylene Blue Photodegradation by Hydrothermally Grown ZnO Nanowires
Authors: Martin Nathan , Leprince-Wang Yamin
Published: October 2021

Photocatalysis is an efficient and promising method to purify water. Numerous studies have been dedicated to demonstrate its efficiency on several hazardous compounds, derived from various industries. However, even if the degradation of such products has been extensively studied, obtaining information on their photodegradation pathway is still challenging, leading to concerns about the innocuousness of the treated water. In this study, the authors use ZnO nanowires (ZnO NWs), to photodegrade a solution of the commonly used organic dye methylene blue (MB) under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, followed simultaneously by UV‐visible (UV‐vis) spectrometry and high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS). Combining these two methods real‐time information on the photodegradation efficiency and degradation mechanism are given. The HPLC‐MS analysis allows us to confidently identify three reaction intermediates of the MB degradation: Azure A, B and C, as well as spot three other compounds, with uncertain formulas, leading to the presented hypothesis on the beginning of the MB degradation pathway. While the UV‐visible analysis shows a total degradation of MB after 2 h of photodegradation, the HPLC‐MS analysis indicates that some MB remain in the solution. Its quantity is calculated to be 14 μg L−1, which is harmless to humans.
Optimization of Tunnel‐Junction for Perovskite/Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact (TOPCon) Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Shou Chunhui , Zheng Jingming , Han Qingling , Zeng Yuheng , Ding Waner , He Haiyan , Liao Mingdun , Yang Xi , Sheng Jiang , Yan Baojie , Ye Jichun
Published: October 2021

A systematic study of the formation of the tunnel‐junction for perovskite/TOPCon tandem solar cells is presented, which consists of a B‐doped poly‐Si (p+‐poly‐Si) and P‐doped poly‐Si (n+‐poly‐Si) double‐layer structure. The rear emitter double‐side TOPCon solar cell is selected as the bottom cell in tandem solar cells, where a p+‐poly‐Si/SiOx forms the rear emitter and an n+‐poly‐Si/SiOx forms the front field with the poly‐Si layer deposited by plasma‐enhanced vapor deposition (PECVD) and crystallized in a furnace. The tunnel‐junction is formed by depositing an additional B‐doped a‐Si:H (p+‐a‐Si:H) on the front n+‐poly‐Si and following a rapid thermal anneal (RTA) to partially crystallize the p+‐a‐Si:H with minimized interdiffusion of B and P. The tunnel‐junction is systematically optimized and it is found that the RTA process at 700 °C produces the optimized tunnel‐junction with the minimal contact resistivity of ≈16 mΩ cm2. The tunnel‐junction formation affects the passivation of the front field TOPCon, but the losses in the passivation quality can be recovered by a forming gas annealing. This process provides a simple and useful method for making the tunnel‐junction in perovskite/TOPCon tandem solar cells.
Recent Progress Toward Realization of High‐Efficiency BaSi2 Solar Cells: Thin‐Film Deposition Techniques and Passivation of Defects
Authors: Suemasu Takashi , Migas Dmitri B.
Published: October 2021

Safe, stable, and earth‐abundant materials for solar cell applications are of particular importance to realize a decarbonized society. Semiconducting barium disilicide (BaSi2), which is composed of nontoxic and earth‐abundant elements, is an emerging material to meet this requirement. BaSi2 has a bandgap of 1.3 eV that is suitable for single‐junction solar cells, a large absorption coefficient exceeding that of chalcopyrite, and inactive grain boundaries. This review is started by describing the recent progress of BaSi2 thin‐film deposition techniques using radio‐frequency sputtering and discuss the high photoresponsivity of BaSi2 thin films. Special attention is paid to passivation of the defects in BaSi2 films by hydrogen or carbon doping. Ab initio studies based on density‐functional theory are then used to calculate the positions of the localized defective states and the Fermi level to discuss the experimentally obtained passivation effects. Finally, the issues that need to be resolved toward realization of high‐efficiency BaSi2 solar cells are addressed.
Neural‐network‐based control for discrete‐time nonlinear systems with denial‐of‐service attack: The adaptive event‐triggered case
Authors: Wang Xueli , Ding Derui , Ge Xiaohua , Han Qing‐Long
Published: October 2021

This article investigates a neural network (NN)‐based control problem for unknown discrete‐time nonlinear systems with a denial‐of‐service (DoS) attack and an adaptive event‐triggered mechanism (ETM). The considered DoS attacks are described by the occurrence frequency and durations and hence more general in comparison with existing stochastic models. To the addressed problem, a novel adaptive rule adjusting the triggering threshold of ETM is constructed to govern the communication schedule, and an NN‐based observer is designed to identify the system dynamics where a piecewise update rule of NN weights is adopted to handle the challenge of the complex time series coming from both ETM and DoS attacks. In light of this kind of protocol‐ and attack‐induced switched systems, a sufficient condition dependent on the occurrence frequency and durations of DoS attacks is elaborately established via the analysis of input‐to‐state stability. Furthermore, an iteration adaptive dynamic programming approach is proposed to handle the addressed control issue, and the boundedness is discussed to both the estimation errors of the Luenberger‐type observer and the identified errors of NN weights of observer networks as well as actor‐critic networks with the help of the Lyapunov theory. Finally, a simulation example is utilized to illustrate the usefulness of the proposed controller design scheme.
Microstructural, Thermal and Electrical Properties of Methyl Methacrylate and 1‐Hexene Copolymers Made by Dinuclear Ni‐Based Catalysts
Authors: Ahmed Zainab Zahid , Ahmadzadeh Hossein , Zohuri Gholam Hossein
Published: October 2021

Herein, we investigate the dinuclearity effect of α‐diimine Ni‐based catalysts, N1and N2bearing different backbone on methyl methacrylate/1‐hexene (MM‐1H) copolymerization and characterize the copolymers microstructures using FT‐IR and NMR. The monomer reactivity ratio (r) is calculated using three different methods, a high reactivity ratio for MM (r1=9.9611), whereas a low reactivity ratio is obtained for 1H (r2=−0.0226). As determined by NMR analyses, up to 96 % of the MM incorporated into the main chain. Thermal copolymer properties are studied by DSC and TGA analyses, and the results are compared with those of Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). The higher content of MM in the copolymer backbone and the higher Tgfor the copolymer samples (95.5 to 105.6 °C) were obtained. TGA shows that the degradation temperature of copolymers with higher 1H content progression reduced by about 10 % weight‐loss for N1(327 to 240 °C) and N2(325 to 236 °C). We are using a novel method with a low‐cost and speedy determination of polymer conductivity in both solid and liquid phases, which indicates the semi‐conductivity property of poly(MM‐1H) using corona discharges under the air atmosphere. Synthesized graphene‐poly(MM‐1H) nanocomposite shows the electrical conductivity augment from 3.45 μS of the poly(MM‐1H) to 30.42 μS for its nanocomposite.
An Overview of Iridium‐Catalyzed Allylic Amination Reactions
Authors: Biya Elsa , Neetha Mohan , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: October 2021

Amination reactions plays a paramount role as it finds wide applications in pharmaceuticals, production of natural compounds and in drug synthesis. Considering the wide tool chest of procedures, it is one of the key approaches to C−N bond construction. In recent years, substantial headway has been observed in reactions of these type and have progressed into vital assistance for building molecules in modern synthetic chemistry. Concerning the catalytic activity of Iridium complexes which are suitable for many organic transformations including amination reactions, studies on amination of allylic systems by Iridium catalysts are significant. This review concisely compiles information on Iridium‐catalyzed allylic amination, casing literature up to 2020.
Power Dependent Hot Carrier Cooling Dynamics in Trioctylphosphine Capped CsPbBr3 Perovskite Quantum Dots Using Ultrafast Spectroscopy
Authors: Kumar Virendra , Nagal Vandana , Srivastava Shubhda , Kumar Mahesh , Gupta Bipin K. , Hafiz Aurangzeb K. , Singh Kedar
Published: October 2021

Herein, a strategy has been executed to reduce the trap states in as‐synthesized CsPbBr3 perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) by using the capping of trioctylphosphine (TOP) which is further evident by the ultrafast spectroscopic technique. Moreover, the excitation source powers and unvarying excitation energy‐dependent studies were carried out to compare the hot carrier (HC) cooling dynamics in the PQDs and TOP‐capped CsPbBr3 PQDs (TOP‐PQDs) to explain the diminution of trap states in TOP‐PQDs. The HC cooling time has been calculated and found that 469.2 fs for PQDs whereas 394.8 fs is for TOP‐PQDs, respectively. From these HC cooling times, it can be concluded that TOP‐PQDs is more capable to intensify the process of HC relaxation from the higher energy states to the conduction band and contribute to suppress the charge trappings that supports the radiative recombination, which demonstrates the enhancement in the PL intensity and PLQY (i. e., 98.8 %). Likewise, and simultaneously at the excitation wavelength e.g.,
, TOP‐PQDs show an improved ground state bleaching (GSB) intensity signal than PQDs at three excitation source powers
in the following order: TOP‐PQDs
PQDs
, TOP‐PQDs
PQDs
, and TOP‐PQDs
PQDs
, respectively.
Preparation and Research on the Optical Temperature Sensing Properties of Ho3+ doped NaY(MoO4)2 Phosphors
Authors: Tian Ye , Meng Qingyu , Zhang Liying , Sun Wenjun , Wang Changwen
Published: October 2021

In this work, NaY(MoO4)2: 5 % Ho3+ were synthesized successfully with sodium citrate as chelating agent by hydrothermal method. As X‐ray diffraction graphs showed, the samples were body‐centered quadrilateral structure. The Field‐emission Scanning Electron Microscope pictures demonstrated the morphology of the experimental samples changed with different amounts of sodium citrate. The temperature‐dependent emission spectra (293‐563 K) revealed different thermal quenching trends of the emission peaks from different energy levels (5F4/5S2→5I7, 5F4/5S2→5I8 and 5F5→5I8). The two groups of fluorescence intensity ratios (FIR) could be applied to temperature measurement (5F4/5S2→5I8 to 5F5→5I8 and 5F4/5S2→5I7 to 5F5→5I8). As sodium citrate content increased, the maximum values of relative sensitivity of the samples increased, among which the greatest one was 0.316 % K−1 (Cit3−/Re3+=2). In addition, the FIR had good repeatability in heating, cooling and heating again process that indicated the temperature sensing properties of the sample were steady. Since it was possible to characterize temperature with two sets of FIR, the samples could play a self‐calibrating character. Summing up the above, the NaY(MoO4)2 : 5 % Ho3+ phosphors were promising optical temperature sensing materials.
Adsorption of Iodine on Adamantane‐Based Covalent Organic Frameworks
Authors: Wu Zhineng , Wei Wei , Ma Jianguo , Luo Jianqiang , Zhou Yueming , Zhou Zhiyi , Liu Shujuan
Published: October 2021

Radioactive iodine is severely hazardous to human health and the environment because of its high specific activity and environmental mobility. In this article, three covalent organic frameworks (COFs) (named as DbTd‐COF, DpTd‐COF, and DaTd‐COF) were prepared for the removal of iodine in both gas and solution states. The COFs were obtained by the solvothermal reaction of 1,3,5,7‐tetrakis (4‐formylphenyl) adamantane (TFPA) with benzidine, 2,5‐diaminopyridine, and p‐phenylenediamine, respectively. The obtained samples were characterized by SEM, FT‐IR, TGA, and nitrogen adsorption‐desorption analysis. The rigid linker of phenzyl chains helps to improve the stability of the polymer. DbTd‐COF and DaTd‐COF show excellent thermomechanical stability with a decomposition temperature of over 400 °C. DbTd‐COF and DaTd‐COF show good uptake capacities of 4.93 and 4.48 g g−1 for iodine vapor capture, respectively. DpTd‐COF shows a slightly smaller iodine uptake of 3.43 g g−1. XPS results indicated that iodine was captured in the form of its polyiodide anions. A better recyclability can be obtained after four cycle runs. In addition, DaTd‐COF shows good removal of iodine (concentration: 500 mg L−1) from cyclohexane solution with an adsorption capacity of 666.79 mg g−1.
An Alkoxy Modified N‐Heterocyclic Carbene‐Palladacycle: Synthesis, Characterization and Application towards Buchwald‐Hartwig and Suzuki‐Miyaura Coupling Reactions
Authors: Zuo Bin , Shao Han , Qu Erdong , Ma Yunhua , Li Wanfang , Huang Mingxian , Deng Qinyue
Published: October 2021

A well‐defined N‐heterocyclic carbene‐palladacycles (NHC‐Pdcycle) by introducing alkoxy group was synthesized, and its structure was confirmed using single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The complex as catalyst exhibited high catalytic activity in Buchwald‐Hartwig and Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling reactions involving (hetero)aryl chlorides. Remarkably, the protocol with a wide range of substrate compatibility is suitable for the gram‐scale synthesis of Piribedil, a clinical drug for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, highlighting its potential applications in pharmaceutical synthesis.
Aerobic Dehydrogenative Coupling of Naphthols and Phenols with a Ru(OH)x/Al2O3 Catalyst under Continuous‐Flow Conditions
Authors: Masuda Koichiro , Chen Wenlong , Hayashi Kazushi , Shimada Shigeru , Onozawa Shun‐ya , Koumura Nagatoshi , Sato Kazuhiko , Kobayashi Shū
Published: October 2021

Dehydrogenative coupling reactions of naphthols and phenols were achieved with a heterogeneous catalyst, alumina‐supported ruthenium hydroxide (Ru(OH)x/Al2O3), using continuous‐flow conditions and aerobic oxygen as the sole oxidant. The reactions were operated continuously for more than 16 h with good reactivity and selectivity. The Ru catalyst could be recycled at least three times by a simple online washing/activation procedure without depackaging the catalyst cartridge. The reaction provided binaphthols and biphenols as valuable products for synthetic purpose and functional materials, while an over‐oxidized quinone was obtained with 2,6‐Di‐tert‐butylphenol; combining this reaction with catalytic hydrogenation under continuous‐flow conditions enabled smooth conversion of quinone to the 4,4′‐biphenol derivative, which is a member of an important class of compounds for liquid crystals, engineering plastics, and other functional materials.
Modification of Short Non‐Permeable Peptides to Increase Cellular Uptake and Cytostatic Activity of Their Conjugates
Authors: Yousef Mo'ath , Szabó Ildikó , Biri‐Kovács Beáta , Szeder Bálint , Illien Françoise , Sagan Sandrine , Bánóczi Zoltán
Published: October 2021

Cell‐penetrating peptides (CPPs) are well‐known delivery vectors, oligoarginines are an important class of CPPs, which was modified to increase the cellular uptake and change the internalization mechanism. A minimum number of four Arg residues was used and tetrarginine sequence was modified by 4‐((4‐(dimethylamino)phenyl)azo)benzoic acid (Dabcyl) and Trp(s). The Dabcyl group was attached to the N‐terminus, while peptides were different in the number and position of Trp in their sequence. Their internalization was studied on breast cancer cells (MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231), and Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO) using different fluorescence techniques. Our most active CPPs, Dabcyl‐RRWRRK and Dabcyl‐WRRRRK were conjugated to antitumor drugs, resulting in considerable cytostatic activity, especially on MDA‐MB‐231 cell lines. These newly developed cell‐penetrating tetrarginine derivatives may enter cells very efficiently, mainly by direct translocation and caveolae‐mediated endocytosis, thus they may be promising delivery vehicle. Tetragrinines are considered inefficient CPPs, but with our modifications, we rendered them effective.
Multi‐Functional Solid Additive Induced Favorable Vertical Phase Separation and Ordered Molecular Packing for Highly Efficient Layer‐by‐Layer Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Yu Runnan , Wu Guangzheng , Cui Yong , Wei Xueqi , Hong Ling , Zhang Tao , Zou Chao , Hu Siqian , Hou Jianhui , Tan Zhan'ao
Published: October 2021

Layer‐by‐layer (LBL) deposition strategy enabling favorable vertical phase distributions has been regarded as promising candidates for constructing high‐efficient organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells. However, solid additives with the merits of good stability and reproducibility have been rarely used to fine‐tune the morphology of the LBL films for improved efficiency and stability. Herein, hierarchical morphology control in LBL OPV is achieved via a dual functional solid additive. Series of LBL devices are fabricated by introducing the solid additive individually or simultaneously to the donor or acceptor layer to clarify the functions of additives. Additive in the donor layer can facilitate the formation of preferable vertical component distribution, and that in the acceptor layer will enhance the molecular crystallinity for better charge transport properties. The optimized morphology ultimately contributed to high PCEs of 16.4% and 17.4% in the binary and quaternary LBL devices. This reported method provides an alternative way to controllably manipulate the morphology of LBL OPV cells.
Reagent Filming for Universal Point‐of‐Care Diagnostics
Authors: Han Gyeo‐Re , Jang Hyungjun , Ki Hangil , Lee Hoyeon , Kim Min‐Gon
Published: October 2021

Simplifying assays while maintaining the robustness of reagents is a challenge in diagnostics. This problem is exacerbated when translating quality diagnostic assays to developing countries that lack resources and infrastructure such as trained health workers, high‐end equipment, and cold‐chain systems. To solve this problem, in this study, a simple solution that films assay reagents to simplify the operation of diagnostic assays and preserve the stability of diagnostic reagents without using cold chains is presented. A polyvinyl‐alcohol‐based water‐soluble film is used to encapsulate premeasured and premixed reagents. The reagent film, produced through a simple and scalable cast‐drying process, provides a glassy inner matrix with abundant hydroxyl groups that can stabilize various reagents (ranging from chemicals to biological materials) by restricting molecular mobility and generating hydrogen bonds. The reagent film is applied to an enzymatic glucose assay, a high‐sensitivity immunoassay for cardiac troponin, and a molecular assay for viral RNA detection, to test its practicability and universal applicability. The film‐based assays result in excellent analytical/diagnostic performance and stable long‐term reagent storage at elevated temperatures (at 25 or 37 °C, for six months), demonstrating clinical readiness. This technology advances the development and distribution of affordable high‐quality diagnostics to resource‐limited regions.
Development and Characterization of Pleurotus ostreatus Mushroom—Wheat Bread
Authors: Losoya‐Sifuentes Carolina , Simões Lívia Souza , Cruz Mario , Rodriguez‐Jasso Rosa Maria , Loredo‐Treviño Araceli , Teixeira Jose Antonio , Nobre Clarisse , Belmares Ruth
Published: October 2021

The Pleurotus ostreatus mushroom is a source of high nutritional value and bioactive compounds such as β‐glucans, with immunomodulatory, hypoglycemic, and prebiotic activity. The aim of this work is to develop a bread with P. ostreatus powder (POP) to increase its nutritional value and reduce its glycemic index. Four formulations are proposed substituting 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% of wheat flour (w/w) for POP in the bread. Their physical and nutritional characteristics were evaluated. In addition to determining the glycemic index and the in vitro digestion of starch in the proposed formulations. Results shown that with the addition of POP the specific volume of the bread decreased, and it became darker. The nutritional value of the bread is enriched, since the content on proteins, fiber, and minerals increased. The results of in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion demonstrated that bread supplemented with POP showed more optimal starch digestibility with slower digestion rate, lower eGI, and RDS contents, which could bring health benefits to humans. These findings suggest that the mushroom powder is an excellent alternative to produce bread with improved nutritional quality and decreased glycemic index.
Bilateral calcaneal epiphysiolysis in a Dobermann puppy presenting for a unilateral femoral fracture
Authors: Gall Nick , Boiocchi Silvia , Bourbos Alexandros
Published: October 2021

A 9‐month‐old male entire Dobermann weighing 30 kg presented to our hospital for complications following previous fixation of a comminuted fracture of the proximal left femoral diaphysis. On presentation, the dog had a marked thickening of the calcaneus and hyperflexion of tarsi bilaterally; however, no discomfort was elicited on manipulation of the joint. Radiographs showed evidence of calcaneal epiphysiolysis. The femoral fracture was treated with revision surgery. The dog had an excellent recovery and the femoral fracture healed without further complications. Calcaneal epiphysiolysis is an infrequently reported orthopedic condition of growing dogs, affecting the physis of tuber calcis in the Dobermann and Rottweiler. There are very few reported cases of calcaneal epiphysiolysis in dogs, with none as yet being reported in the United Kingdom.
The Markov gap for geometric reflected entropy
Authors: Hayden Patrick , Parrikar Onkar , Sorce Jonathan
Published: October 2021

Abstract

The reflected entropy SR(A : B) of a density matrix ρAB is a bipartite correlation measure lower-bounded by the quantum mutual information I(A : B). In holographic states satisfying the quantum extremal surface formula, where the reflected entropy is related to the area of the entanglement wedge cross-section, there is often an order-N2 gap between SR and I. We provide an information-theoretic interpretation of this gap by observing that SR− I is related to the fidelity of a particular Markov recovery problem that is impossible in any state whose entanglement wedge cross-section has a nonempty boundary; for this reason, we call the quantity SR− I the Markov gap. We then prove that for time-symmetric states in pure AdS3 gravity, the Markov gap is universally lower bounded by log(2)ℓAdS/2GN times the number of endpoints of the cross-section. We provide evidence that this lower bound continues to hold in the presence of bulk matter, and comment on how it might generalize above three bulk dimensions. Finally, we explore the Markov recovery problem controlling SR− I using fixed area states. This analysis involves deriving a formula for the quantum fidelity — in fact, for all the sandwiched Rényi relative entropies — between fixed area states with one versus two fixed areas, which may be of independent interest. We discuss, throughout the paper, connections to the general theory of multipartite entanglement in holography.