bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase inversion detection in immiscible binary polymer blends via zero‐shear viscosity measurements
Authors: Versteeg Frederique A. , Mukherjee Adrivit , Picchioni Francesco , Parisi Daniele
Published: April 2024

In the present work, we demonstrate that zero‐shear viscosity is a sensitive rheological function to detect phase inversion in immiscible binary polymer blends characterized by a viscosity ratio larger than one. The phase inversion of poly(propylene) (PP)/low‐density poly(ethylene) (LDPE) and poly(styrene) (PS)/LDPE, at various compositions, was assessed via our novel approach. For both blends, three distinctive regions could be determined through zero‐shear viscosity measurements; the LDPE matrix, the co‐continuous phase, and the PS or PP matrix. For PP/LDPE blends, the co‐continuous structure was between 50 and 75 wt.% PP, and for PS/LDPE blends the co‐continuous structure was between 45 and 75 wt.% PS, in agreement with scanning electron microscopy analysis, empirical model predictions, and literature data.

Highlights

Phase inversion revealed via viscosity measurements.

Limitations of linear viscoelastic models for immiscible blends assessed.
Versatile Approach to Self‐Assembly of Surface Modified Nanoparticles into SERS‐Active Nanoclusters
Authors: Zhang Min , Liu Jie , Li Xun , Zhao Xiaoyu , Cheng Zhiqun , Deng Tian‐Song
Published: April 2024

A versatile method is invented to self‐assemble gold nanoparticles (GNPs) into nanoclusters (NCs) of various morphologies. By storing the particles in toluene, a highly non‐polar solvent, under conditions that ensure particle stability, the success rate of subsequent assembly can be enhanced. Additionally, conducting particle self‐assembly at a stirring speed of 200 rpm allows the NCs to maintain a spherical shape. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of Raman spectral peaks of multiple NCs used as surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates is calculated to be less than 10%, effectively addressing the issue of low repeatability when using NCs as SERS substrates. Furthermore, even at an analyte concentration reduced to 10−9 m, a SERS characteristic peak intensity of approximately 2 × 103 is measurable, demonstrating the high sensitivity of the assembled structures. Finally, by detecting SERS signals from NCs of varying sizes, the intensities of characteristic peaks tend to converge, eliminating the influence of morphology and size on SERS detection.
Light intensity differentially mediates the life cycle of lepidopteran leaf feeders and stem borers
Authors: Xu Ting‐Ting , Wu Xian , Luo Zhen‐Bao , Tang Liang‐De , Gao Jun‐Yi , Zang Lian‐Sheng
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Leaf feeders, such as Spodoptera frugiperda and Spodoptera litura, and stem borers Ostrinia furnacalis and Chilo suppressalis, occupy two different niches and are well adapted to their particular environments. Borer larvae burrow and inhabit the interior of stems, which are relatively dark. By contrast, the larvae of leaf feeders are exposed to sunlight during feeding. We therefore designed series of experiments to evaluate the effect of light intensity (0, 2000, and 10 000 lx) on these pests with different feeding modes.

RESULTS

The development of all four pests was significantly delayed at 0 lx. Importantly, light intensity affected the development of both male and female larvae of borers, but only significantly affected male larvae of leaf feeders. Furthermore, the proportion of female offspring of leaf feeders increased with increasing light intensity (S. frugiperda: 33.89%, 42.26%, 57.41%; S. litura: 38.90%, 51.75%, 65.08%), but no significant differences were found in stem borers. This research also revealed that the survival rate of female leaf feeders did not vary across light intensities, but that of males decreased with increasing light intensity (S. frugiperda: 97.78%, 85.86%, 61.21%; S. litura: 95.83%, 73.54%, 58.99%).

CONCLUSION

These results improve our understanding of how light intensity affects sex differences in important lepidopteran pests occupying different feeding niches and their ecological interactions with abiotic factors in agroecosystems. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Electrospinning in Food Packaging: Current Trend and Future Direction
Authors: Al‐Attabi Abduladheem , Ahmed Abdulrahman T. , Merza Muna S. , Shakier Hussein Ghafel , Zabibah Rahman S. , Al‐Hetty Hussein Riyadh Abdul Kareem , Baher Hala
Published: April 2024

Food packaging is a multidisciplinary field that includes food science, chemistry, engineering materials sciences and microbiology. Food packaging has sparked great interest in protecting the freshness and quality of foods and their raw materials from oxidation and microbial spoilage. Nanotechnology, especially electrospinning, has shown promising results in fabricating sophisticated food packaging materials. The current paper aims to review, highlight, discuss and challenge the latest electrospun food packaging studies. We will not only summarize the studies but also challenge the applied methods, materials and results. Moreover, we offer a more practical point of view regarding the industrial translation of electrospun food packaging.
Experience of people living with leprosy at leprosy settlements in Nigeria
Authors: Oke Gabriel Ilerioluwa , Nsofor Ifeanyi , Abubakar Bashar , Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo , Sunday Ademola Peter , Dibia Ernesto Oluwafemi , Elebesunu Emmanuel Ebuka , Okpokpo Obadiah , Obeta Odinaka Kingsley , Babatunde Abdulhammed Opeyemi , Adeyemi Adebowale Sylvester , Adeoye Philip Adewale , Utaka Edith Nnenna
Published: April 2024

Background

Although Nigeria achieved the national leprosy elimination target of less than 1/10,000 population in 1998, factors such as culture, behavioural patterns and social determinants, among others, continue to contribute to an increase in leprosy cases and a poor state of living for individuals with leprosy in Nigeria. This study delves into the experiences of individuals residing in leprosy settlements in Nigeria.

Methods

This study employed a community‐based cross‐sectional design, utilizing a concurrent mixed‐methods approach for comprehensive data collection. Questionnaires, focus groups and interviews are conducted simultaneously. The research involves participants from seven leprosy communities across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones and Federal Capital Territory. Qualitative methods, including 14 focus group discussions and 6 key informant interviews, are complemented by quantitative questionnaires, engaging residents, leaders and nongovernmental organization (NGO) representatives. Respondents comprised 35 leprosy patients, 21 family members, 7 community leaders, 7 settlement officers and 2 organizational heads involved in leprosy control.

Results

The results indicate significant access to healthcare (93.7%) and interest in self‐care practices (95.2%), with a considerable proportion (74.6%) receiving free healthcare. Interview data underscore the limited government support, with NGOs and partners assuming a more substantial role. Qualitative insights from persons living with leprosy highlight financial struggles, stigmatization and substandard living conditions in settlements, exacerbated by limited government funding. This reliance on private and NGOs is further compounded by declining funding, hindering individuals’ ability to start businesses and provide self‐care.

Conclusion

This study underscores the pressing need for increased government support, funding and better living conditions for individuals affected by leprosy in Nigeria. It highlights the significance of education, awareness campaigns and human rights promotion to combat stigma and enhance the quality of life for those living with leprosy. Moreover, the study advocates for the reintegration of affected individuals into their communities to foster societal inclusion and well‐being.
The meteorology of the 2019 North Queensland floods
Authors: Robinson Corey M. , Barnes Michael A. , Narsey Sugata , Reeder Michael J.
Published: April 2024

In January–February 2019, a monsoon low developed over northeastern Australia and brought extreme flooding to much of tropical Queensland. The European Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasts reanalyses are used to explain the formation and severity of the event. Strong anticyclonic Rossby wave breaking to the southeast of Australia produced weak steering winds over northern Australia, and consequently the low remained nearly stationary for over a week, contributing to the extreme rainfall. Furthermore, the tropical moist margin was deformed by a series of disturbances along the monsoon trough, which drew moist maritime air over land. The event examined has much in common with the composite mean of slow‐moving potential vorticity anomalies in North Queensland, including weak background winds and heavy precipitation. An ensemble subseasonal forecast with the Australian Bureau of Meteorology's Australian Community Climate and Earth System Simulator Seasonal prediction version system 1 shows the same relationship between the background flow, the steering, and the subsequent rainfall. Hence, accurately forecasting the background winds is a prerequisite to forecasting such extreme rainfall.
Installation protocol for charge transfer dissociation mass spectrometry on ion trapping mass spectrometers
Authors: Sasiene Zachary J. , Jackson Glen P.
Published: April 2024

Rationale

Charge transfer dissociation (CTD) is a novel fragmentation technique that demonstrates enhanced structural characterization for a wide variety of molecules compared to standard fragmentation techniques like collision‐induced dissociation (CID). Alternative fragmentation techniques, such as electron transfer dissociation, electron capture dissociation, and ultraviolet photodissociation, also overcome many of the shortfalls of CID, but none of them are a silver bullet that can adequately characterize a wide variety of structures and charge states of target compounds. Given the diversity of structural classes and their occasional obstinance towards certain activation techniques, alternative fragmentation techniques are required that rely on novel or alternative modes of activation.

Methods

Herein, we present a step‐by‐step protocol for the installation of CTD on a quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer and best practices for optimizing the signal‐to‐noise ratio and acquisition times for CTD mass spectra.

Results

In addition to two CTD installations in the Jackson laboratory, CTD has also been installed, and is currently in operation, on two 3D ion trap mass spectrometers in France: one in the laboratory of Dr. David Ropartz and Dr. Hélène Rogneaux at INRAE in Nantes, and the other in the laboratory of Dr. Jean‐Yves Salpin at Université d'Évry Val‐d'Essonne, part of the Paris‐Saclay University system.

Conclusions

Here, we provide a visual protocol to help others accomplish the instrument modification.
Cold‐pressing, ethanol defatting, and saline extraction enhances properties of protein products from new pennycress varieties (covercress™)
Authors: Hojilla‐Evangelista Milagros P. , Evangelista Roque L. , Selling Gordon W. , Ulmasov Tim N.
Published: April 2024

Pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.), a winter oilseed and cover crop, is a source of novel proteins and oil for biofuel. New yellow‐seeded pennycress specialty varieties, named covercress™, were developed via conventional breeding and gene editing, but protein characteristics are still unknown. This work evaluated two covercress lines, TT8 and Y1126, for protein extraction and functionality, and the combination of cold‐pressing, alcohol‐defatting, and saline extraction to produce a protein that could align better with clean labeling. Seeds were first cold‐pressed in a tubular radial expeller then defatted at 60°C with anhydrous ethanol (‐Eth) or hexane (‐Hex) until ≤0.8% residual oil. Protein was extracted from defatted press cake (PC) using the saline method (0.1 M NaCl, 1: 10 w/v, 50°C, 2 h) for hexane‐defatted wild‐type pennycress (WTP) seed meal and PC. TT8 PC had 33%–67% more globulin and glutelin than WTP PC, but ethanol defatting reduced albumin + globulin amounts by 14%–32%. TT8 PC protein recoveries (63% and 40%) were 2‐ to 3‐fold greater than that of Y1126 PC‐Eth and their extracts had greater purity (85%–91% vs. 70% protein). Y1126 PC‐Eth protein showed a nearly constant 68%–70% solubility from pH 2 to 10, but TT8 PC‐Eth protein was more soluble in acidic pH (87%–90% solubility). Y1126 PC‐Eth protein showed greater foaming capacity (146–150 mL), while TT8 PC‐Eth protein had superior emulsifying properties (EAI 141–236 m2/g protein and ESI 13–26 min). This work demonstrated the enhanced functionality of TT8 and Y1126 proteins produced from an environmentally friendly and industrially relevant method.
Computational Screening for the Identification of Potential Phytochemical Inhibitors of Leishmania infantum Trypanothione Reductase
Authors: Bourhia Mohammed , Shahab Muhammad , Bouhaissa Mohamed , Jardan Yousef A. Bin , Ouahmane Lahcen , Msanda Fouad
Published: April 2024

Leishmaniasis is a vector‐borne parasitic disease that possesses high morbidity and a variety of clinical manifestations. Of all the clinical manifestations, visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is the deadliest and its etiological organisms are mainly Leishmania infantum (L. infantum) and Leishmania donovani (L. donovani). In the tropical and subtropical regions, L. infantum is the main causative agent of VL, and it creates a favorable biological milieu in the host through the multifaceted action of its trypanothione reductase (TryR), which mediates the reduction of oxidized trypanothione to its reduced form, leading to the replenishment of the antioxidant capacity of the parasite and detoxifying the reactive oxygen and nitrogen species imposed by the host's immune system. The distinct structural and functional differences of this enzyme compared to its human homologs and its pivotal role in the survival of the parasite have rendered it an attractive target for drug discovery odysseys. Consequently, this study aims to identify potential inhibitors of TryR of L. infantum from Allium sativum (A. sativum) using molecular modeling techniques. The identified compounds were first screened using molecular docking, after which the pharmacokinetics properties of the top‐scoring compounds were further evaluated. Further evaluation of the stability of the complexes of the lead compounds with TryR revealed their relative stability over 100 ns simulation period. Ultimately, the lead compounds namely beta‐sitosterol, (E)‐alpha‐bisabolene, and agapanthagenin were found to possess suitable properties based on the results of this study and can serve as inhibitors of TryR of L. infantum upon further in vitro and in vivo study.
Unveiling of Indanone‐Benzimidazole Hybrids as Anti‐Alzheimer's Agents: Computational and Experimental Studies
Authors: Kushwaha Pragati , Das Bhanuranjan , Kumar Rajnish
Published: April 2024

The growing concern of Alzheimer's disease underscores the urgent requirement for the development of novel therapeutic agents. In this study, a series of 15 hybrid molecules containing Indanone‐Benzimidazole heterocycles were designed utilizing the molecular hybridization approach. The synthesized molecules were characterized by spectroscopic techniques and their anti‐Alzheimer's behaviour were examined. Biological assessment demonstrated that compounds 14 and 15 exhibited significant reduction of “human” amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide aggregation, expressing on transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) strain CL4176. These compounds were further evaluated for their AChE inhibitory effects in transgenic C. elegans strain CL2006 and found significant. Molecular docking investigations have elucidated the commendable affinity exhibited by the studied ligands towards the Aβ pentamer (PDB: 2BEG) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) (PDB: 4EY7). Subsequent to these docking studies, molecular dynamics simulations were conducted, affirming the stability of both ligands in association with the Aβ pentamer and ACh. Additionally, Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed by using B3LYP energy level with the basis set 6–311 G (d, p) basis set to correlate with experimental results. Taken together, all these findings evidenced the experimental results and this study sheds light on the anti‐Alzheimer's potential of Indanone‐Benzimidazole hybrids.
Phthalocyanine‐Based Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Antibacterial Therapy
Authors: Zhou Shangmei , Zheng Naishu , Li Haochen , Zheng Ke
Published: April 2024

Bacterial infection poses a grave peril to human existence and well‐being, particularly with the emergence of drug‐resistant bacteria, leading to an alarming rise in the incidence of severe illness and mortality. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has emerged as one of the most promising strategies for combating bacterial infections due to its potent bactericidal efficacy and non‐inducement of resistance. The development of novel photosensitizers represents a viable approach to further enhance the efficacy of aPDT. Hence, the structural design and application strategies of phthalocyanine‐based photosensitizers were summarized to provide guidance in the development of highly efficient aPDT agents.
Versatile Biaryls and Fused Aromatics through Oxidative Coupling of Hydroquinones with (Hetero)Arenes
Authors: Aijima Takaaki , Ueda Rina , Nakane Takanori , Makino Fumiaki , Ohnishi Yusuke , Tokunaga Jin , Nakajima Keiichiro , Kamino Shinichiro , Kurisu Genji , Namba Keiichi , Nakata Hiroki , Mogi Kaiki , Sajiki Hironao , Akai Shuji , Sawama Yoshinari
Published: April 2024

Hydroquinones bearing an electron‐withdrawing group at the C2‐position can effectively underwent oxidative coupling with (hetero)arenes (e. g., indoles, electron‐rich benzene derivatives) in the presence of 2,3‐dichloro‐5,6‐dicyano‐p‐benzoquinone (DDQ) and FeCl3 to produce the corresponding biaryl products. In the present reactions, the DDQ‐mediated oxidation of hydroquinone derivatives produce benzoquinone intermediate, which subsequently underwent FeCl3‐catalyzed nucleophilic addition of (hetero)arenes to the α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl moiety to give the biaryl product in a one‐pot manner. Especially, the indole‐based biaryl products were further converted into tetracyclic aromatics through DDQ‐mediated oxidation followed by FeCl3‐catalyzed intramolecular cyclization. Thiophene derivatives were also applicable to give the tetracyclic aromatics. Moreover, the photophysical properties of the indole‐ and thiophene‐based tetracyclic aromatics in the solution and the solid states were investigated.
Hybrid Nickel‐Copper Oxide Nanoparticles: A Multiparametric Study for the Influence of Synthetic Parameters on the Optical and Physical Properties
Authors: Majid Mubashar , Usman Muhammad , Ibrar Sadaf , Ashfaq Husna , Awan Qasim Talib , Khan Asad Muhammad , Younas Farhan , Rab Abdur , Shaikh Ahson Jabbar
Published: April 2024

The hybrid nanoparticles of nickel and copper oxide are optimized by varying synthetic conditions such as precursor salt concentration, rate of reagent addition, pH, and temperature. The resulting nanoparticles are characterized by using UV‐Visible and fluorescence spectroscopy, hydrodynamic size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, SEM, EDX, XRD, and FTIR spectroscopy. The control over composition and physical properties of these hybrid oxides are analyzed through careful variations in the synthetic parameters. UV‐Vis analysis demonstrated the successful synthesis of NiO‐CuO hybrid nanoparticles at various concentrations. NiO dominant hybrids are obtained by quick addition of the reagent and at higher pH, while CuO dominant hybrids require slower addition of reagent and lower pH. The increase in the temperature causes a hypochromic shift in the UV‐Vis absorption, whereas fluorescence is enhanced with increase in the CuO concentration. The fluorescence generally remained stable by varying time of reagent addition, pH, and temperature. More stable and least‐sized NiO‐CuO hybrid nanoparticles are obtained at ratios of 75 : 25 and 25 : 75, by quick addition of reagent, at higher pH levels, and at higher temperatures. A better understanding of their physical and optical properties obtained by varying synthetic parameters may potentially result in their enhanced applications.
La‐Doped Mg‐Al Composite Oxides: Efficient Catalysts for the synthesis of Diethyl Carbonate via Transesterification of Ethylene Carbonate with Ethanol
Authors: Wang Hefang , Pan Yupeng , Jiang Hui , Wang Haimeng , Ma Xiaofei , Hao Shijiao , Liu Jingwei
Published: April 2024

Series of La‐doped Mg−Al composite oxides were prepared by co‐precipitation method and used as catalysts for the synthesis of diethyl carbonate (DEC) via transesterification of ethylene carbonate (EC) with ethanol (EtOH). SEM, XRD, FT‐IR and XPS results confirmed that the introduction of La enhanced the interaction with MgO. The 8 mol % La‐doped Mg−Al composite oxide (calcined catalyst named HTC‐0.8 La) produced strong interactions and improved lattice oxygen content (27.84 %). Based on the N2 adsorption‐desorption and CO2‐TPD results, the HTC‐0.8 La catalysts possessed abundant multistage mesoporous structure, high strong base density and strength (0.941 mmol ⋅ g−1). Therefore, the HTC‐0.8La catalyst exhibited high catalytic activity with 58.5 % yield of DEC and 94.7 % selectivity to DEC (EC: EtOH molar ratio=1 : 6, reaction time=1.5 h, reaction temperature=150 °C and catalyst amount=3.2 wt %). Based on the correlation between catalytic activity and alkalinity, the yield of DEC was positively and linearly related to the strong alkali density of the catalyst. After five replicate experiments, the DEC yield after recovery and roasting reached 54.1 %, indicating that HTC‐0.8La is a renewable heterogeneous catalyst.
Phase Engineered Composite Phase Change Materials for Thermal Energy Manipulation
Authors: Aftab Waseem , Shi Jinming , Jin Yongkang , Usman Ali , Qin Mulin , Ashraf Zubair , Shen Zhenghui , Zhong Ruiqin , Zou Ruqiang
Published: April 2024

Phase change materials (PCMs) present a dual thermal management functionality through intrinsic thermal energy storage (TES) capabilities while maintaining a constant temperature. However, the practical application of PCMs encounters challenges, primarily stemming from their low thermal conductivity and shape‐stability issues. Despite significant progress in the development of solid–solid PCMs, which offer superior shape‐stability compared to their solid–liquid counterparts, they compromise TES capacity. Herein, a universal phase engineering strategy is introduced to address these challenges. The approach involves compositing solid–liquid PCM with a particulate‐based conductive matrix followed by surface reaction to form a solid–solid PCM shell, resulting in a core‐shell composite with enhanced thermal conductivity, high thermal storage capacity, and optimal shape‐stability. The core‐shell structure designed in this manner not only encapsulates the energy‐rich solid–liquid PCM core but also significantly enhances TES capacity by up to 52% compared to solid–solid PCM counterparts. The phase‐engineered high‐performance PCMs exhibit excellent thermal management capabilities by reducing battery cell temperature by 15 °C and demonstrating durable solar‐thermal‐electric power generation under cloudy or no sunshine conditions. This proposed strategy holds promise for extending to other functional PCMs, offering a compelling avenue for the development of high‐performance PCMs for thermal energy applications.
Phase Change Heterostructure Memory with Oxygen‐Doped Sb2Te3 Layers for Improved Durability and Reliability through Nano crystalline Island Formation
Authors: Kim Dong Hyun , Park Seung Woo , Choi Jun Young , Lee Ho Jin , Oh Jin Suk , Joo Jong Min , Kim Tae Geun
Published: April 2024

Phase‐change random access memory represents a notable advancement in nonvolatile memory technology; however, it faces challenges in terms of thermal stability and reliability, hindering its broader application. To mitigate these issues, doping and structural modification techniques such as phase‐change heterostructures (PCH) are widely studied. Although doping typically enhances thermal stability, it can adversely affect the switching speed. Structural modifications such as PCH have struggled to sustain stable performance under high atmospheric conditions. In this study, these challenges are addressed by synergizing oxygen‐doped Sb2Te3 (OST) with PCH technology. This study presents a novel approach in which OST significantly improves the crystallization temperature, power efficiency, and cyclability. Subsequently, the integration of the PCH technology bolsters the switching speed and further amplifies the device's reliability and endurance by refining the grain size (≈7 nm). The resultant OST‐PCH devices exhibit exceptional performance metrics, including a drift coefficient of 0.003 in the RESET state, endurance of ≈4 × 108 cycles, an switching speed of 300 ns, and 67.6 pJ of RESET energy. These findings suggest that the OST‐PCH devices show promise for integration into embedded systems, such as those found in automotive applications and Internet of Things devices.
A 2.5 V In‐Plane Flexi‐Pseudocapacitor with Unprecedented Energy and Cycling Efficiency for All‐Weather Applications
Authors: Yadav Prahlad , Samanta Ketaki , Arya Vinay , Biswas Diptesh , Kim Hun‐Seong , Bakli Chirodeep , Jung Hyun Young , Ghosh Debasis
Published: April 2024

As electronic devices for aviation, space, and satellite applications become more sophisticated, built‐in energy storage devices also require a wider temperature spectrum. Herein, an all‐climate operational, energy and power‐dense, flexible, in‐plane symmetric pseudocapacitor is demonstrated with utmost operational safety and long cycle life. The device is constructed with interdigital‐patterned laser‐scribed carbon‐supported electrodeposited V5O12·6H2O as a binder‐free electrode and a novel high‐voltage anti‐freezing water‐in‐salt‐hybrid electrolyte. The anti‐freezing electrolyte can operate over a wide temperature range of −40–60 °C while offering a stable potential window of ≈2.5 V. The device undergoes rigorous testing under diverse environmental conditions, including rapid and regular temperature and mechanical transition over multiple cycles. Additionally, detailed theoretical simulation studies are performed to understand the interfacial interactions with the active material as well as the local behavior of the anti‐freeze electrolyte at different temperatures. As a result, the all‐weather pseudocapacitor at 1 A g−1 shows a high areal capacitance of 234.7 mF cm−2 at room temperature and maintains a high capacitance of 129.8 mF cm−2 even at −40 °C. Besides, the cell operates very reliably for over 80 950 cycles with a capacitance of 25.7 mF cm−2 at 10 A g−1 and exhibits excellent flexibility and bendability under different stress conditions.
Unique Hierarchically Structured High‐Entropy Alloys with Multiple Adsorption Sites for Rechargeable Li–CO2 Batteries with High Capacity
Authors: Yi Jiacheng , Deng Qinghua , Cheng Hui , Zhu Dandan , Zhang Kan , Yang Yong
Published: April 2024

Lithium–carbon dioxide (Li–CO2) batteries offer the possibility of synchronous implementation of carbon neutrality and the development of advanced energy storage devices. The exploration of low‐cost and efficient cathode catalysts is key to the improvement of Li–CO2 batteries. Herein, high‐entropy alloys (HEAs)@C hierarchical nanosheet is synthesized from the simulation of the recycling solution of waste batteries to construct a cathode for the first time. Owing to the excellent electrical conductivity of the carbon material, the unique high‐entropy effect of the HEAs, and the large number of catalytically active sites exposed by the hierarchical structure, the FeCoNiMnCuAl@C‐based battery exhibits a superior discharge capability of 27664 mAh g−1 and outstanding durability of 134 cycles as well as low overpotential with 1.05 V at a discharge/recharge rate of 100 mA g−1. The adsorption capacity of different sites on the HEAs is deeply understood through density functional theory calculations combined with experiments. This work opens up the application of HEAs in Li–CO2 batteries catalytic cathodes and provides unique insights into the study of adsorption active sites in HEAs.
A Noncentrosymmetric Metal‐Free Borophosphate: Achieving a Large Birefringence and Excellent Stability by Covalent‐Linkage
Authors: Zhang Hui‐Li , Jiao Dong‐Xue , Li Xiao‐Fei , He Chao , Dong Xi‐Ming , Huang Kai , Li Jin‐Hua , An Xing‐Tao , Wei Qi , Wang Guo‐Ming
Published: April 2024

Organic–inorganic hybrid linear and nonlinear optical (NLO) materials have received increasingly wide spread attention in recent years. Herein, the first hybrid noncentrosymmetric (NCS) borophosphate, (C5H6N)2B2O(HPO4)2 (4PBP), is rationally designed and synthesized by a covalent‐linkage strategy. 4‐pyridyl‐boronic acid (4 PB) is considered as a bifunctional unit, which may effectively improve the optical properties and stability of the resultant material. On the one hand, 4 PB units are covalently linked with PO3(OH) groups via strong B–O–P connections, which significantly enhances the thermal stability of 4PBP (decomposition at 321, vs lower 200 °C of most of hybrid materials). On the other hand, the planar π‐conjugated C5H6N units and their uniform layered arrangements represent large structural anisotropy and hyperpolarizability, achieving the largest birefringence (0.156 @ 546 nm) in the reported borophosphates and a second‐harmonic generation response (0.7 × KDP). 4PBP also exhibits a wide transparency range (0.27–1.50 µm). This work not only provides a promising birefringent material, but also offers a practical covalent‐attachment strategy for the rational design of new high‐performance optical materials.
Government + research + philanthropy: How cross‐sector partnerships can improve policy decisions and action
Authors: Owen Jenni
Published: April 2024

Researchers often lament that government decision‐makers do not generate or use research evidence. People in government often lament that researchers are not responsive to government's needs. Yet there is increasing enthusiasm in government, research, and philanthropy sectors for developing, investing in, and sustaining government‐research partnerships that focus on government's use of evidence. There is, however, scant guidance about how to do so. To help fill the gap, this essay addresses (1) Why government‐research partnerships matter; (2) Barriers to developing government‐research partnerships; (3) Strategies for addressing the barriers; (4) The role of philanthropy in government‐research partnerships. The momentum to develop, invest in, and sustain cross‐sector partnerships that advance government's use of evidence is exciting. It is especially encouraging that there are feasible and actionable strategies for doing so.
Research on the Effects of Voltage Sags and Harmonics on the Output Characteristics of Switching Power Supply
Authors: Tang Yuzheng , Liu Shuming , Li Qionglin , Zhang Bo , Wang Yi , Xu Futao , Xu Yonghai
Published: April 2024

Switching power supply is widely used in industrial equipment, household appliances, and other fields due to the advantages of high integration and lightweight. Voltage sags can seriously affect the output voltage of switching power supply and the working condition of its power supply equipment; at the same time, the working scenarios of power equipment using switching power supply often have different level of harmonic problems. Considering the continuous innovation of switching power supply technology, the previous analysis and test results on the effect of voltage sags and harmonics on switching power supplies may no longer be applicable. The paper reveals the mechanism of the effect of harmonic alone as well as voltage sag superimposed harmonics on the output voltage of the switching power supply. Then the test research program was developed, and four different brands switching power supplies were selected for the test research, with which the effects of different amplitude voltage sags, harmonics with different frequencies and distortion, as well as voltage sag superimposed harmonics on the output voltage of switching power supplies were investigated. The results show that the tolerance ability of switching power supplies to voltage sags has been improved compared with previous switching power supplies, and the harmonic itself has less effect on the output voltage of switching power supply, but the joint action of harmonics and voltage sags will have a greater effect on the output voltage of switching power supply. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Integrated Performance Assessments: Providing Equitable Instruction and Assessment for ELLs/MLLs
Authors: Oliver Gretchen P. , Gregory Karen M.
Published: April 2024

In this Teaching Issues article, we make the case for using Integrated Performance Assessments (IPAs) to get a better picture of ELLs/MLLs learning progress and language development and thus, contributing to more equitable learning environments in both instruction and assessment practices. An Integrated Performance Assessment allows learners to use the three modes of communication—interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational—to communicate their learning and demonstrate language development in an integrated way. We show how IPAs can be used as assessments for, of, and as learning; they promote more authentic teaching and assessment methods, in both formative and summative ways. To illustrate the potential opportunities IPAs can offer over traditional teaching and assessment methods, we share a classroom‐ready example designed by a teacher who participated in a 15‐month professional development project. We posit that IPAs value the resources ELLs/MLLs bring to the classroom and allow them to use these resources in their learning, as well as promote authentic language use and provide a window into ELLs’/MLLs’ progress in ways that advance their learning and language development through collaboration and interaction.
Judd‐Ofelt analysis and optical properties of Eu3+‐doped GdPO4 phosphors synthesized by combustion method
Authors: Hien Thai T. D. , Roan Pham D. , Minh Ngo K. K. , Do Phan V. , Thanh Nguyen T. , Huong Nguyen T. , Khuyen Hoang T. , Lien Pham T. , Tien Dinh M. , Tung Pham T. , Vu Nguyen
Published: April 2024

The Eu3+‐doped GdPO4 nanoparticles were prepared via a straightforward combustion method using urea as fuel and nitrates as a precursor. X‐ray powder diffraction patterns, infrared spectrum (IR), HR‐TEM, photoluminescence (PL), phonon sideband and photoluminescence excitation (PLE) were researched. There is a phase transition from the hexagonal phase into the monoclinic phase when the calcined temperature is over 700 °C. All of phosphors have similar morphology and the average diameters for nanoparticles are 20–30 nm. Under the excitation at 273 nm, GdPO4:Eu3+ powders showed red emission bands originating from the 5D0–7FJ (J = 1, 2, 3 and 4) transitions of Eu3+. The orange‐red emission (5D0–7F1 transition) is dominated because the Eu3+ ions exist with inversion symmetry in the lattice. The study suggests that the optimal Eu3+ ions concentration is 5 mol%. In addition, the second order crystal field parameter (B20) and the influence of concentration of Eu3+ ions on decay time are also mentioned, the intensity parameters (Ω2,4,6) and quantum efficiency were determined based on Judd‐Ofelt theory.
Synthesis of bio‐based plasticizer from custard apple seed oil for PVC application
Authors: Kharat Baburao M. , More Aarti P.
Published: April 2024

In the research, a bio‐based through epoxidizing, plasticizer was created non‐toxic custard apple seed oil (CASO) using peroxy acid generated in situ and investigates the application of a bio‐based plasticizer in the compounding of polyvinyl chloride as epoxidized custard apple seed oil (ECASO) (PVC). The ECASO was synthesized through an epoxidation reaction and characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and analytical parameters such as epoxy value, and oxirane conversion. To create plasticized PVC, the PVC was mixed with different ratios of ECASO and dioctyl phthalate (DOP) using a two‐roll mill and prepared PVC sheet by compression molding. The ECASO plasticizer completely fuses with PVC and plasticized PVC sheets are made. Glass transition temperature, tensile strength, percent elongation, solvent resistance, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermal gravimetric analysis were among the mechanical and thermal characteristics of PVC sheets that were assessed. This result shows the plasticization efficiency of ECASO and DOP combined was similar to that of DOP alone, even with the same plasticizer loading. Moreover, when used in combination with DOP, ECASO was found to be a more efficient plasticizer. As a result, ECASO can be used as a biobased substitute for DOP, replacing up to 60% of the ECASO plasticizer loading.
Stability and policy threats: US public opinion after a decade of the Affordable Care Act
Authors: Haeder Simon F. , Sylvester Steven
Published: April 2024

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) continues to shape US politics at the elite level. We know less about whether this conflict still carries over to the broader public. Moreover, we know little about the degree to which the conflict reaches into its various policies and whether the policy threats to the ACA can affect public opinion. We fielded a large, and demographically diverse survey of US adults using Lucid (N = 6066) from July 8–21, 2020. The survey contained an experiment that introduced the topic to respondents as the 2010 health reform law, the ACA, or Obamacare and at times highlighted the potential undoing of the ACA by the US Supreme Court. Analyses were conducted using Ordinary Least Squares regression. Our findings indicate that perceptions of the ACA differ substantial based on partisanship and racial prejudice. Framing still matters in the minds of Americans and their perception of health reforms in general and its individual components by extending these differences. However, we find only very limited evidence for changes to public attitudes related to the policy threat of the Supreme Court ruling the ACA constitutional in California v. Texas. The ACA remains a political battleground in the minds of Americans. The politics of the ACA continue to be shaped by perceptions of race and partisanship.
Prognostic impact of prior LVEF in patients with heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Schmitt Alexander , Behnes Michael , Weidner Kathrin , Abumayyaleh Mohammad , Reinhardt Marielen , Abel Noah , Lau Felix , Forner Jan , Ayoub Mohamed , Mashayekhi Kambis , Akin Ibrahim , Schupp Tobias
Published: April 2024

Aims

As there is limited evidence regarding the prognostic impact of prior left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF), this study investigates the prognostic impact of longitudinal changes in LVEF in patients with HFmrEF.

Methods

Consecutive patients with HFmrEF (i.e. LVEF 41–49% with signs and/or symptoms of HF) were included retrospectively in a monocentric registry from 2016 to 2022. Based on prior LVEF, patients were categorized into three groups: stable LVEF, improved LVEF, and deteriorated LVEF. The primary endpoint was 30-months all-cause mortality (median follow-up). Secondary endpoints included in-hospital and 12-months all-cause mortality, as well as HF-related rehospitalization at 12 and 30 months. Kaplan–Meier and multivariable Cox proportional regression analyses were applied for statistics.

Results

Six hundred eighty-nine patients with HFmrEF were included. Compared to their prior LVEF, 24%, 12%, and 64% had stable, improved, and deteriorated LVEF, respectively. None of the three LVEF groups was associated with all-cause mortality at 12 (p ≥ 0.583) and 30 months (31% vs. 37% vs. 34%; log rank p ≥ 0.376). In addition, similar rates of 12- (p ≥ 0.533) and 30-months HF-related rehospitalization (21% vs. 23% vs. 21%; log rank p ≥ 0.749) were observed. These findings were confirmed in multivariable regression analyses in the entire study cohort.

Conclusion

The transition from HFrEF and HFpEF towards HFmrEF is very common. However, prior LVEF was not associated with prognosis, likely due to the persistently high dynamic nature of LVEF in the follow-up period.

Graphical Abstract
Status of alternative angiogenic pathways in glioblastoma resected under and after bevacizumab treatment
Authors: Ezaki Taketo , Tanaka Toshihide , Tamura Ryota , Ohara Kentaro , Yamamoto Yohei , Takei Jun , Morimoto Yukina , Imai Ryotaro , Kuranai Yuki , Akasaki Yasuharu , Toda Masahiro , Murayama Yuichi , Miyake Keisuke , Sasaki Hikaru
Published: April 2024

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) acquires resistance to bevacizumab (Bev) treatment. Bev affects angiogenic factors other than vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which are poorly understood. We investigated changes in angiogenic factors under and after Bev therapy, including angiopoietin-1 (ANGPT1), angiopoietin-2 (ANGPT2), placental growth factor (PLGF), fibroblast growth factor 2, and ephrin A2 (EphA2). Fifty-four GBM tissues, including 28 specimens from 14 cases as paired specimens from the same patient obtained in three settings: initial tumor resection (naïve Bev), tumors resected following Bev therapy (effective Bev), and recurrent tumors after Bev therapy (refractory Bev). Immunohistochemistry assessed their expressions in tumor vessels and its correlation with recurrent MRI patterns. PLGF expression was higher in the effective Bev group than in the naïve Bev group (p = 0.024) and remained high in the refractory Bev group. ANGPT2 and EphA2 expressions were higher in the refractory Bev group than in the naïve Bev group (p = 0.047 and 0.028, respectively). PLGF expression was higher in the refractory Bev group compared with the naïve Bev group for paired specimens (p = 0.036). PLGF was more abundant in T2 diffuse/circumscribe patterns (p = 0.046). This is the first study to evaluate angiogenic factors other than VEGF during effective and refractory Bev therapy in patient-derived specimens.
Large vessel occlusion detection by non-contrast CT using artificial ıntelligence
Authors: Aytaç Emrah , Gönen Murat , Tatli Sinan , Balgetir Ferhat , Dogan Sengul , Tuncer Turker
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Computer vision models have been used to diagnose some disorders using computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) images. In this work, our objective is to detect large and small brain vessel occlusion using a deep feature engineering model in acute of ischemic stroke.

Methods

We use our dataset. which contains 324 patient’s CT images with two classes; these classes are large and small brain vessel occlusion. We divided the collected image into horizontal and vertical patches. Then, pretrained AlexNet was utilized to extract deep features. Here, fc6 and fc7 (sixth and seventh fully connected layers) layers have been used to extract deep features from the created patches. The generated features from patches have been concatenated/merged to generate the final feature vector. In order to select the best combination from the generated final feature vector, an iterative selector (iterative neighborhood component analysis—INCA) has been used, and this selector has chosen 43 features. These 43 features have been used for classification. In the last phase, we used a kNN classifier with tenfold cross-validation.

Results

By using 43 features and a kNN classifier, our AlexNet-based deep feature engineering model surprisingly attained 100% classification accuracy.

Conclusion

The obtained perfect classification performance clearly demonstrated that our proposal could separate large and small brain vessel occlusion detection in non-contrast CT images. In this aspect, this model can assist neurology experts with the early recanalization chance.
A stable mapping of nmODE
Authors: Luo Haiying , He Tao , Yi Zhang
Published: April 2024

Adversarial attacks pose significant challenges to the reliability and performance of neural networks. Despite the development of several defense mechanisms targeting various types of adversarial perturbations, only a few manage to strike a balance between theoretical soundness and practical efficacy. nmODE (neural memory ordinary differential equation) is a recently proposed model with several intriguing properties. By delving into the rare attribute of global attractors inherent in nmODE, this paper unveils its stable mapping, thereby conferring certified defense capabilities upon it. Moreover, a novel quantitative approach is proposed, establishing a mathematical link between perturbations and nmODE’s defense proficiency. Additionally, a training technique termed as nmODE+ is put forward, enhancing the defense capability of nmODE without imposing additional training burdens. Extensive experiments demonstrate nmODE’s resilience to various perturbations, showcasing its seamless integration with neural networks and existing defense mechanisms. These findings offer valuable insights into leveraging differential equations for robust neural network security.
Relationship Undermining in Couple Therapy
Authors: Doherty William J. , Harris Steven M. , Mussa Kadija
Published: April 2024

We examined the prevalence of relationship undermining statements by therapists treating couples, as reported by clients, and the association of these statements with outcomes. Participants (n = 270) reported on recollections of their therapist saying that they were incompatible, that therapist could not help them, that the relationship was beyond repair, that divorce was the best or most realistic option, or told one of partners that the other had a personality problem, or proposed individual therapy instead of couple therapy. Findings showed a prevalence rate of 10-28% across these five undermining statements; 40% of clients reported at least one statement. Undermining statements were associated with poorer outcomes and shorter duration of couple therapy. We suggest that some therapists treating couples lack a systemic/relationship framework and set of skills, which leads them to become frustrated and pessimistic with difficult couple cases. We offer implications for the training of couple therapists.
Risk of desirable user experiences: insights from those who create, facilitate and accept mobile payments
Authors: Mahler Martin , Murphy Andrew
Published: April 2024

Incorporating fluency theory into a user experience design framework, this study utilises design considerations, drawing on complementary angles of the two theoretical domains, as a foundation with the ultimate goal of creating beneficial mobile payment experiences. An exploratory approach is deployed through semi-structured interviews to provide insights into experience design considerations utilising sensory elements and risk perception, a combination which has thus far received little attention. Research participants consist of senior managers that work for companies that create, facilitate, or accept mobile payment apps or processes. A conceptual framework is proposed with design as a starting point, including aesthetics and the need for a simplified experience, along with sensory elements that replicate familiar visual, audio, and haptic stimuli. These lead to a more usable experience that is perceived as easy to use through a frictionless experience. Usefulness is increased as exposure increases, and new app or process features can be added once prior features become familiar through repeated use. Key trade-offs include a simplified experience versus feature-rich experience, and frictionless experiences versus security risks, with key practical suggestions on how these can be approached.