bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between tooth macrowear and jaw morphofunctional traits in representative hypercarnivores
Authors: Tseng Z. Jack , DeSantis Larisa R. G.
Published: November 2024

The mammalian adult dentition is a non-renewable resource. Tooth attrition and disease must be accommodated by individuals using behavioral, physiological, and/or musculoskeletal shifts to minimize impact on masticatory performance. From a biomechanical perspective, the musculoskeletal system becomes less efficient at producing bite force for a given amount of muscle input force over an individual’s life, because tooth-food contact area increases as cusps wear. In this study we ask the question: does mandibular biomechanical performance show evidence of compensation with increasing tooth wear? We use representative taxa of three carnivoran ecomorphologies (meat specialist, scavenger, bone cracker) as a study system to compare morphofunctional data on tooth macrowear, jaw depth, bite mechanical efficiency, and jaw stress during biting. No significant shifts in adult mandibular corpus dimensions occurs in the sampled taxa as canine and carnassial teeth wear. In bone cracking spotted hyenas carnassial biting mechanical efficiency increases significantly with increasing tooth wear, with no significant change in mandibular stress. Analyses of the fossil carnivore Hyaenodon suggests an increase in canine biting efficiency with increased tooth wear, but this may reflect interspecific variation or phylogenetic contingency rather than a life history shift. Overall, these findings indicate that scavenging hyaenids and felid meat specialists do not exhibit morphofunctional compensation for the decreased mechanical capability of worn and dull teeth. Behavioral modifications, rather than musculoskeletal adjustments, may instead play a major role in maintaining food acquisition and processing capabilities for individuals surviving into advanced ontogenetic age and tooth wear. These observations highlight the mammalian masticatory system as having a dynamic performance profile through its useful lifespan, and encourage a more nuanced understanding of past and present carnivore guilds by considering wear-dependent performance changes as a possible source of selection.
Digital competence of faculty members in health sciences measured via self-reflection: current status and contextual aspects
Authors: Ersoy Halil , Baskici Cigdem , Aytar Aydan , Strods Raimonds , Jansone Ratinika Nora , Manuel Lopes Fernandes António , Neves Hugo , Blaževičienė Aurelija , Vaškelytė Alina , Wikström-Grotell Camilla , Paakkonen Heikki , Söderlund Anne , Fritz Johanna , Kav Sultan
Published: November 2024

This descriptive study aims to determine the digital competence level of faculty members who teach in the health sciences, empirically considering possible contextual aspects. Two data collection instruments were used: a self-reflection questionnaire to assess digital competence, and a survey querying demographics and aspects of teaching and learning context. In total, 306 health sciences faculty members from six universities voluntarily participated the study. The results revealed that a majority of the faculty members have intermediate (integrator or expert) level of digital competence, which is described as being aware of the potential use of digital technology in teaching and having a personal repertoire for its use under various circumstances. Age, digital teaching experience, perception of work environment, and previous teaching experience in fully- or partially-online courses were identified as influencing factors for digital competence. Faculty members in health sciences were able to integrate digital technologies in their teaching practices. Health education institutions may facilitate the use of digital technologies in teaching and learning environments. Moreover, institutions or stakeholders should consider that digital competence requires practice and experience in meaningfully-designed digital environments and tools.
The Extent of Participation and Empowerment of Rural Women in Lac Cultivation in Koderma District of Jharkhand, India
Authors: Kumari Chanchila , Sinha Jyoti , Ghosh Debrup , Rai A K
Published: November 2024

Lac cultivation in Koderma District, Jharkhand, offers a unique pathway for empowering rural women, serving as a significant source of income and socio-economic upliftment. This review examines the depth of women’s participation in various stages of lac production, from inoculation to processing, and how their involvement translates into empowerment. Despite facing challenges like gender discrimination, limited access to resources, and market constraints, women in Koderma have demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Lac cultivation has provided them with financial independence and enhanced social recognition and decision-making power within their households and communities. Initiatives by the government and NGOs have played a critical role in facilitating this shift, offering training, market access, and financial support to enable women to break socio-cultural barriers. However, for sustained empowerment, addressing the existing gaps in technology access, market linkage, and equitable resource distribution is essential. This article aims to explore lac cultivation's role in empowering rural women in Koderma District, Jharkhand, by examining their participation in the production process and its impact on their socio-economic upliftment (Pal G., 2011). It aims to highlight women's challenges, the contributions of government and NGO initiatives, and the need for improved policies, technology, and market access to ensure sustained empowerment and equitable participation in the lac industry.
Detection of Seed Mycoflora Associated with Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) by Various Seed Health Testing Methods
Authors: S U Patil , S V Waghmare , A S Ingle , S J Magar , N H Patil
Published: November 2024

India is one of the major oilseed crops grower. Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) is an important oilseed crop second after groundnut. Mustard is majorly grown in India which carry many seedborne diseases which causes not only seed rot, seedling blight but also reduction in quality of seed parameters which results qualitative and quantitative yield losses. In standard agar plate seed germination per centage ranged from 78.50 to 85.00% and in Modified PDA method ranged from 70.00 to 78.00%. In standard agar plate and Modified PDA method highest per cent of infected seed was observed in Pusa bold 74.25% and 64.50%, respectively. In two seed health testing methods (SHT) were evaluated standard agar plate show higher seed mycoflora than modified PDA method. All two methods were found effective and reliable for the detection of seedborne fungi such as Alternaria brassicae, Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Rhizoctonia solani, Penicillium sp. and Rhizopus stolonifer isolated from mustard seeds of varieties Krishna, Kranti, Local and Pusa bold.
The Role of Cajanus cajan in Enhancing Soil Fertility and Macrofauna Populations in Intensively Cultivated Systems in Korhogo (Northern Côte d’ivoire)
Authors: Elie KOUAKOU Konan , Sylvain SEHI Zokagon , Urbain KONAN Kouassi , Antoine N’GUESSAN Kouamé , Albert YAO-KOUAME
Published: November 2024

In the Korhogo department, it is almost impossible to practice fallowing. The aim of this study is to determine how the Cajanus fallow impact the soil the biological and physical soil fertility. Macrofauna and soil samples were taken in different cropping systems (Cajan + maize, Cajanus + groundnut, Cajanus + maize + groundnut, Cajanus) and compared with the control (soil that did not contain any legume). The population density and abundance of the different macrofauna sampled were calculated and compared by analysis of variance ANOVA at the threshold of 0.05. The results show that the cropping system based on Cajanus cajan favoured the repopulation of the soil with Termicidae, Lumbricidae and Formicidae to the control. These values varied from 90 to 340 individuals/m2 for Lumbricidae in the system based on Cajanus. compared to the control values lower than 5 individuals/m2. The comparison of the population density according to the type of tillage also shows that flat plowing systems stimulate increase Lumbricidae populations more than ridged soils (325; 275; 125 individuals/m2 on plowing. against 230; 100 individuals /m2 on ridge) respectively on Cajanus+ groundnut, Cajanus + groundnut+ maize and pure Cajanus. On the other hand, the intercropping which increased the number of Lumbricidae, Termicidae and Formicidae, whatever the type of tillage, are, respectively, Cajanus + groundnut, Cajanus + groundnut + maize, Cajanus + maize and pure Cajanus.The introduction of Cajanus into intercropping systems leads to an improvement in the physical and biological fertility of the soil.
Racismo Ambiental E Saúde: A Aplicação De Normas Ambientais Como Mecanismo Jurídico Para A Justiça Social
Authors: Amaral Raquel Araújo , Neiva Rodrigo Lélis , Carvalho Luciana Gonçalves De Carvalho , Marques Francisco Roldineli Varela , Albuquerque Anderson Terceiro De
Published: November 2024

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi analisar como as normas ambientais podem servir como mecanismos jurídicos para promover a justiça social em relação ao racismo ambiental. Para tanto, foi realizada uma revisão integrativa, utilizando dados das plataformas Google Acadêmico e SciELO. Os critérios de seleção incluíram artigos científicos completos, em português, de autores brasileiros, publicados entre 2020 e 2023. A análise dos artigos selecionados foi dividida em duas etapas: triagem inicial dos títulos e resumos, seguida de uma leitura detalhada dos artigos mais relevantes, resultando em três artigos para análise. A pesquisa revela que o racismo ambiental resulta em sérios impactos para a saúde das populações marginalizadas, incluindo doenças respiratórias, cardiovasculares e infecciosas, exacerbadas pela falta de infraestrutura básica. As normas ambientais são fundamentais para proteger essas comunidades e garantir um ambiente saudável. No entanto, a eficácia dessas normas é comprometida por problemas como fiscalização inadequada e interesses econômicos predominantes. Para enfrentar o racismo ambiental e promover a justiça social, é necessário fortalecer a fiscalização das normas
Materials and Structures toward Soft Electronics
Authors: Wang Chunfeng , Wang Chonghe , Huang Zhenlong , Xu Sheng
Published: August 2018

Soft electronics are intensively studied as the integration of electronics with dynamic nonplanar surfaces has become necessary. Here, a discussion of the strategies in materials innovation and structural design to build soft electronic devices and systems is provided. For each strategy, the presentation focuses on the fundamental materials science and mechanics, and example device applications are highlighted where possible. Finally, perspectives on the key challenges and future directions of this field are presented.
Electronic and Optical Properties of 2D Materials Constructed from Light Atoms
Authors: Weng Qunhong , Li Guodong , Feng Xinliang , Nielsch Kornelius , Golberg Dmitri , Schmidt Oliver G.
Published: August 2018

Boron, carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen atoms can form various building blocks for further construction of structurally well‐defined 2D materials (2DMs). Both in theory and experiment, it has been documented that the electronic structures and optical properties of 2DMs are well tunable through a rational design of the material structure. Here, the recent progress on 2DMs that are composed of B, C, N, and O elements is introduced, including borophene, graphene, h‐BN, g‐C3N4, organic 2D polymers (2DPs), etc. Attention is put on the band structure/bandgap engineering for these materials through a variety of methodologies, such as chemical modifications, layer number and atomic structure control, change of conjugation degree, etc. The optical properties, such as photoluminescence, thermoluminescence, single photon emission, as well as the associated applications in bioimaging and sensing, are discussed in detail and highlighted.
Enhanced Bidimensionality‐Driven Ultrahigh Laser‐Induced Voltages in High‐Tc Superconducting Epitaxial Films
Authors: Xiong Fei , Wang Min , Zhang Hui , Xie Lin , Guo ChangJin , Shao Jian , Jiang Zuimin , Chen Qingming , Hu Wanbiao
Published: August 2018

Light/laser‐induced voltage (LIV) phenomenon is discovered for decades, which seems quite promising in light/photovoltage‐related applications, but actually the LIV improvement is quite limited (several volts level) even after long‐term endeavors. To this end, an A‐site doubling tailoring strategy is explored in high‐Tc superconducting perovskite to endow enhanced structural bidimensionality in terms of decoupling between 2D superconducting planes. High‐quality (La1.6–xNd0.4)BaxCuO4 (LNBCO; x = 0.125–0.20) epitaxial films with A‐site Ba/Nd doping are fabricated by pulsed laser deposition method. The LNBCO films exhibit ultrahigh laser‐induced voltages (LIVs), especially the superior LIVs of higher than 50 V for x = 0.15 and 0.175 and show fast rising time (<85 ns) and long response time (>100 ns). Such a high LIV is several orders/folds larger than that of the existing high‐Tc superconductors and other materials reported to date. Systematic influences are investigated in terms of laser irradiation conditions, tilting angle, Seebeck coefficient, etc., suggesting the high LIVs are correlated to charge transport. Simultaneous tailoring over A‐site Ba and Nd in LNBCO causes weaken coupling between the CuO2 planes because the La/Ba/Nd‐O bonds are elongated and charges are localized within Cu or CuO2 plane. This enables accelerating the charge transport anisotropically, a consequence of enhanced bidimensionality.
Ultrafast Ionizing Radiation Detection by p–n Junctions Made with Single Crystals of Solution‐Processed Perovskite
Authors: Wang Xin , Wu Yao , Li Guanwen , Wu Jun , Zhang XiaoBing , Li Qing , Wang Baoping , Chen Jing , Lei Wei
Published: August 2018

Organometallic perovskites are candidates for low‐dose ionizing radiation due to their large mobility‐lifetime product, large radiation absorption coefficient, high stability at ambient temperature, and ability to crystallize from solution at low temperatures. However, multiple unstable and expansive organic layers are required to block injected charges from the applied voltage. Here, a radiation photodiode based on p–n junctions formed in the CH3NH3PbI3 crystallization process without any other organic layers is reported. Through controlling the location of the dopant, selenium (Se), and its concentration inside CH3NH3PbI3 single crystals, the valence band offset of the band alignment is measured as 0 to 0.45 eV. The photodiodes require only two gold electrodes deposited on opposite faces of the CH3NH3PbI3 single crystals, and the sensitivity for 60 keV X‐ray and 1.25 MeV gamma‐ray from Cobalt‐60 reached 21 µC mGyair cm−2 and 41 µC Gyair cm−2, respectively. Experiments measured the ultrafast response time to be 3 µs.
Low‐Power Monolithically Stacked Organic Photodiode‐Blocking Diode Imager by Turn‐On Voltage Engineering
Authors: Wu Yi‐Lin , Matsuhisa Naoji , Zalar Peter , Fukuda Kenjiro , Yokota Tomoyuki , Someya Takao
Published: August 2018

Multiplexing the signal readout from the organic photodetector matrix is essential for high‐resolution and large‐area imaging applications. This endeavor can be realized by pixels containing photodiodes and switching elements, such as transistors or blocking diodes. The use of blocking diodes is beneficial for simpler fabrication and fewer wires than transistors. However, imagers with blocking diodes can always require additional voltage to turn off the unselected lines, which causes high standby power and increased complexity of the readout circuit. In this study, low standby power organic imagers are realized that are suitable for wearable optical imaging applications in which resources for power and readout circuits are limited. Pixels with a vertical stack of organic photodiodes and blocking diode layers are investigated. By increasing the built‐in potential of blocking diodes, the turn‐on voltage of the monolithically stacked photodiode‐blocking diode device can be adjusted to enable its turn‐off at 0 V. This leads to a three‐orders‐of‐magnitude reduction of the current of pixels at 0 V. With these pixels, imagers based on organic photodiode‐blocking diode stack devices are demonstrated with improved image quality and substantially reduced crosstalk current, while operating at zero standby power.
Manipulating the Molecular Backbone to Achieve Highly Emissive Sky‐Blue AIEgens and Their Applications in Nondoped Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Dang Dongfeng , Wang Zhiheng , Liu Kunkun , Liu Yong , Sung Herman H. Y. , Williams Ian D. , Kwok Ryan T. K. , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Su Shi‐Jian , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2018

To enhance the luminescent performance of aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) in organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) but also retain their blue emission color, 2‐CzTPE and 2,7‐CzTPE with promising AIE features are synthesized to balance the trade‐off between twisted molecular conformation and enlarged molecular conjugation. As observed, although 2‐CzTPE, which contains twisted molecular backbone, could suppress the emission‐quenching π–π stacking, an inferior luminescent performance with photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) of 23.12% occurs in aggregated solid state for its limited molecular conjugation, then leading to an inferior electroluminescence (EL) performance with external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 1.9%. However, after molecular engineering of backbone to enlarge its conjugation in 2,7‐CzTPE, significantly enhanced PLQY value of 60.63% is achieved in solid state. Interestingly, the emission of 2,7‐CzTPE remains in the blue region, which is even identical to that of 2‐CzTPE in aggregates. Finally, much better EL performance in nondoped OLEDs with current efficiency of 7.38 cd A−1, power efficiency of 6.81 lm W−1, and also EQE of 3.0% is achieved for 2,7‐CzTPE‐based devices. These findings demonstrate that manipulating molecular backbone to achieve the balanced molecular conjugation and twisted conformation is an efficient way to obtain highly emissive blue AIEgens in both aggregated state and OLEDs devices.
Structural Engineering of Multishelled Hollow Carbon Nanostructures for High‐Performance Na‐Ion Battery Anode
Authors: Bin De‐Shan , Li Yunming , Sun Yong‐Gang , Duan Shu‐Yi , Lu Yaxiang , Ma Jianmin , Cao An‐Min , Hu Yong‐Sheng , Wan Li‐Jun
Published: August 2018

Hard carbon has long been considered the leading candidate for anode materials of Na‐ion batteries. Intensive research efforts have been carried out in the search of suitable carbon structure for an improved storage capability. Herein, an anode based on multishelled hollow carbon nanospheres, which are able to deliver an outstanding electrochemical performance with an extraordinary reversible capacity of 360 mAh g−1 at 30 mA g−1, is designed. An interesting dependence of the electrochemical properties on the multishelled structural features is identified: with an increase in the shell number of the model carbon materials, the sloping capacity in the charge/discharge curve remains almost unchanged while the plateau capacity continuously increases, suggesting an adsorption‐filling Na‐storage mechanism for the multishelled hollow hard carbon materials. The findings not only provide new perspective in the structural design of high‐performance anode materials, but also shed light on the complicated mechanism behind Na‐storage by hard carbon.
A Novel Graphene Oxide Wrapped Na2Fe2(SO4)3/C Cathode Composite for Long Life and High Energy Density Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Mingzhe , Cortie David , Hu Zhe , Jin Huile , Wang Shun , Gu Qinfen , Hua Weibo , Wang Enhui , Lai Weihong , Chen Lingna , Chou Shu‐Lei , Wang Xiao‐Lin , Dou Shi‐Xue
Published: August 2018

The cathode materials in the Na‐ion battery system are always the key issue obstructing wider application because of their relatively low specific capacity and low energy density. A graphene oxide (GO) wrapped composite, Na2Fe2(SO4)3@C@GO, is fabricated via a simple freeze‐drying method. The as‐prepared material can deliver a 3.8 V platform with discharge capacity of 107.9 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C (1 C = 120 mA g−1) as well as offering capacity retention above 90% at a discharge rate of 0.2 C after 300 cycles. The well‐constructed carbon network provides fast electron transfer rates, and thus, higher power density also can be achieved (75.1 mAh g−1 at 10 C). The interface contribution of GO and Na2Fe2(SO4)3 is recognized and studied via density function theory calculation. The Na storage mechanism is also investigated through in situ synchrotron X‐ray diffraction, and pseudocapacitance contributions are also demonstrated. The diffusion coefficient of Na+ ions is around 10−12–10−10.8 cm2 s−1 during cycling. The higher working voltage of this composite is mainly ascribed to the larger electronegativity of the element S. The research indicates that this well‐constructed composite would be a competitive candidate as a cathode material for Na‐ion batteries.
Solution Processable Inorganic–Organic Double‐Layered Hole Transport Layer for Highly Stable Planar Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Guan‐Woo , Kang Gyeongho , Choi Kyoungwon , Choi Hyuntae , Park Taiho
Published: August 2018

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have reached their highest efficiency with 2,2′,7,7′‐tetrakis(N,N′‐di‐p‐methoxyphenylamine)‐9,9′‐spirobifluorene (spiro‐OMeTAD). However, this material can cause problems with respect to reproducibility and stability. Herein, a solution‐processable inorganic–organic double layer based on tungsten oxide (WO3) and spiro‐OMeTAD is reported as a hole transport layer in PSCs. The device equipped with a WO3/spiro‐OMeTAD layer achieves the highest efficiency (21.44%) in the tin (IV) oxide planar structure. The electronic properties of the double layer are thoroughly analyzed using photoluminescence, space‐charge–limited current, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The WO3/spiro‐OMeTAD layer exhibits better hole extraction ability and faster hole mobility. The WO3 layer particularly improves the open‐circuit voltage (VOC) by lowering the quasi‐Fermi energy level for holes and reducing charge recombination, resulting in high VOC (1.17 V in the champion cell). In addition, the WO3 layer as a scaffold layer promotes the formation of a uniform and pinhole‐free spiro‐OMeTAD overlayer in the WO3/spiro‐OMeTAD layer. High stability under thermal and humid conditions stems from this property. The study presents a facile approach for improving the efficiency and stability of PSCs by stacking an organic layer on an inorganic layer.
Predicting Calendar Aging in Lithium Metal Secondary Batteries: The Impacts of Solid Electrolyte Interphase Composition and Stability
Authors: Wood Sean M. , Fang Chengcheng , Dufek Eric J. , Nagpure Shrikant C. , Sazhin Sergiy V. , Liaw Boryann , Meng Y. Shirley
Published: August 2018

Calendar aging of lithium metal batteries, in which cells' components degrade internally due to chemical reactions while no current is being applied, is a relatively unstudied field. In this work, a model to predict calendar aging of lithium metal cells is developed using two sets of readily obtainable data: solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer composition (measured via X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy) and SEI stability (measured as a degradation rate using a simple constant current–constant voltage charging protocol). Electrolyte properties such as volume and salt concentration are varied in order to determine their effect on SEI stability and composition, with subsequent impacts to calendar aging. Lower salt concentrations produce a solvent‐based, more soluble SEI, while the highest concentration produces a salt‐based, less soluble SEI. Higher electrolyte volumes promote dissolution of the SEI and thus decrease its stability. The model predicts that lithium metal would be the limiting factor in calendar aging, depleting long before the electrolyte does. Additionally, the relative composition of the electrolyte during aging is modeled and found to eventually converge to the same value independent of initial salt concentration.
High‐Performance Reversible Aqueous Zn‐Ion Battery Based on Porous MnOx Nanorods Coated by MOF‐Derived N‐Doped Carbon
Authors: Fu Yanqing , Wei Qiliang , Zhang Gaixia , Wang Xiaomin , Zhang Jihai , Hu Yongfeng , Wang Dongniu , Zuin Lucia , Zhou Tao , Wu Yucheng , Sun Shuhui
Published: August 2018

Rechargeable aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) have been emerging as potential large‐scale energy storage devices due to their high energy density, low cost, high safety, and environmental friendliness. However, the commonly used cathode materials in ZIBs exhibit poor electrochemical performance, such as significant capacity fading during long‐term cycling and poor performance at high current rates, which significantly hinder the further development of ZIBs. Herein, a new and highly reversible Mn‐based cathode material with porous framework and N‐doping (MnOx@N‐C) is prepared through a metal–organic framework template strategy. Benefiting from the unique porous structure, conductive carbon network, and the synergetic effect of Zn2+ and Mn2+ in electrolyte, the MnOx@N‐C shows excellent cycling stability, good rate performance, and high reversibility for aqueous ZIBs. Specifically, it exhibits high capacity of 305 mAh g−1 after 600 cycles at 500 mA g−1 and maintains achievable capacity of 100 mAh g−1 at a quite high rate of 2000 mA g−1 with long‐term cycling of up to 1600 cycles, which are superior to most reported ZIB cathode materials. Furthermore, insight into the Zn‐storage mechanism in MnOx@N‐C is systematically studied and discussed via multiple analytical methods. This study opens new opportunities for designing low‐cost and high‐performance rechargeable aqueous ZIBs.
Metal–Organophosphine Framework‐Derived N,P‐Codoped Carbon‐Confined Cu3P Nanopaticles for Superb Na‐Ion Storage
Authors: Kong Minhong , Song Huaihe , Zhou Jisheng
Published: August 2018

Metal–organic framework derived approaches are emerging as a viable way to design carbon‐confined transitional metal phosphides (TMPs@C) for energy storage and conversion. However, their preparation generally involves a phosphorization using a large amount of additional P sources, which inevitably releases flammable, poisonous PH3. Therefore, developing an efficient strategy for eco‐friendly synthesis of TMPs@C is full of challenges. Here, a metal–organophosphine framework (MOPF) derived strategy is developed to allow an eco‐friendly design of TMPs@C without an additional P source, avoiding release of PH3. To illustrate this strategy, 1,3,5‐triaza‐7‐phosphaadamantane (PTA) ligands and Cu(NO3)2 metal centers are employed to construct Cu/PTA‐MOPFs nanosheets. Cu/PTA‐MOPFs can be directly converted to carbon‐confined Cu3P nanoparticles by annealing. Benefiting from high heteroatom content in PTA, a high doping content of 3.92 at% N and 8.26 at% P can also be achieved in the carbon matrix. As a proof‐of‐concept application, N,P‐codoped carbon‐confined Cu3P nanoparticles as anodes for Na‐ion storage exhibit a high initial reversible capacity of 332 mA h g−1 at 50 mA g−1, and superb rate and cyclic performance. Due to rich coordination modes of organophosphine, MOPFs are expected to become a promising molecular platform for design of various heteroatom‐doped TMPs@C for energy storage and conversion.
Minimizing the Electrolyte Volume in Li–S Batteries: A Step Forward to High Gravimetric Energy Density
Authors: Agostini Marco , Hwang Jang‐Yeon , Kim Hee Min , Bruni Pantaleone , Brutti Sergio , Croce Fausto , Matic Aleksandar , Sun Yang‐Kook
Published: August 2018

Sulfur electrodes confined in an inert carbon matrix show practical limitations and concerns related to low cathode density. As a result, these electrodes require a large amount of electrolyte, normally three times more than the volume used in commercial Li‐ion batteries. Herein, a high‐energy and high‐performance lithium–sulfur battery concept, designed to achieve high practical capacity with minimum volume of electrolyte is proposed. It is based on deposition of polysulfide species on a self‐standing and highly conductive carbon nanofiber network, thus eliminating the need for a binder and current collector, resulting in high active material loading. The fiber network has a functionalized surface with the presence of polar oxygen groups, with the aim to prevent polysulfide migration to the lithium anode during the electrochemical process, by the formation of S–O species. Owing to the high sulfur loading (6 mg cm−2) and a reduced free volume of the sulfide/fiber electrode, the Li–S cell is designed to work with as little as 10 µL cm−2 of electrolyte. With this design the cell has a high energy density of 450 Wh kg−1, a lifetime of more than 400 cycles, and the possibility of low cost, by use of abundant and eco‐friendly materials.
MnPO4‐Coated Li(Ni0.4Co0.2Mn0.4)O2 for Lithium(‐Ion) Batteries with Outstanding Cycling Stability and Enhanced Lithiation Kinetics
Authors: Chen Zhen , Kim Guk‐Tae , Bresser Dominic , Diemant Thomas , Asenbauer Jakob , Jeong Sangsik , Copley Mark , Behm Rolf Jürgen , Lin Jianyi , Shen Zexiang , Passerini Stefano
Published: August 2018

Herein, the successful synthesis of MnPO4‐coated LiNi0.4Co0.2Mn0.4O2 (MP‐NCM) as a lithium battery cathode material is reported. The MnPO4 coating acts as an ideal protective layer, physically preventing the contact between the NCM active material and the electrolyte and, thus, stabilizing the electrode/electrolyte interface and preventing detrimental side reactions. Additionally, the coating enhances the lithium de‐/intercalation kinetics in terms of the apparent lithium‐ion diffusion coefficient. As a result, MP‐NCM‐based electrodes reveal greatly enhanced C‐rate capability and cycling stability—even under exertive conditions like extended operational potential windows, elevated temperature, and higher active material mass loadings. This superior electrochemical behavior of MP‐NCM compared to as‐synthesized NCM is attributed to the superior stability of the electrode/electrolyte interface and structural integrity when applying a MnPO4 coating. Employing an ionic liquid as an alternative, intrinsically safer electrolyte system allows for outstanding cycling stabilities in a lithium‐metal battery configuration with a capacity retention of well above 85% after 2000 cycles. Similarly, the implementation in a lithium‐ion cell including a graphite anode provides stable cycling for more than 2000 cycles and an energy and power density of, respectively, 376 Wh kg−1 and 1841 W kg−1 on the active material level.
In Silico Screening of MOFs with open copper sites for C2H2/CO2 separation
Authors: Zhang Ce , Wang Lei , Maurin Guillaume , Yang Qingyuan
Published: August 2018

Selective separation of acetylene (C2H2) from carbon dioxide (CO2) remains one of the most challenging industrial processes because of their very similar molecular sizes and physical properties. Considering the low compression limit of C2H2, it is highly desirable to seek porous materials with specific adsorption sites for efficiently discriminating the two gases under ambient conditions. With accurate force fields derived at the ab‐initio level, a large‐scale computational screening was performed in this work to explore the performances of a library of MOFs with open Cu sites for C2H2/CO2 separation. Out of about 800 existing materials retrieved in our database, 3 MOFs were identified that outperform the current adsorbents in terms of C2H2/CO2 selectivity and C2H2 uptake. This prediction paves the ways towards the revisit of such MOFs for this targeted application. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 4089–4096, 2018
Building the monocot tree of death: Progress and challenges emerging from the macrofossil‐rich Zingiberales
Authors: Smith Selena Y. , Iles William J. D. , Benedict John C. , Specht Chelsea D.
Published: August 2018

Premise of the Study

Inclusion of fossils in phylogenetic analyses is necessary in order to construct a comprehensive “tree of death” and elucidate evolutionary history of taxa; however, such incorporation of fossils in phylogenetic reconstruction is dependent on the availability and interpretation of extensive morphological data. Here, the Zingiberales, whose familial relationships have been difficult to resolve with high support, are used as a case study to illustrate the importance of including fossil taxa in systematic studies.

Methods

Eight fossil taxa and 43 extant Zingiberales were coded for 39 morphological seed characters, and these data were concatenated with previously published molecular sequence data for analysis in the program MrBayes.

Key Results

Ensete oregonense is confirmed to be part of Musaceae, and the other seven fossils group with Zingiberaceae. There is strong support for Spirematospermum friedrichii, Spirematospermum sp. ‘Goth’, S. wetzleri, and Striatornata sanantoniensis in crown Zingiberaceae while “Musa” cardiosperma, Spirematospermum chandlerae, and Tricostatocarpon silvapinedae are best considered stem Zingiberaceae. Inclusion of fossils explains how different topologies from morphological and molecular data sets is due to shared plesiomorphic characters shared by Musaceae, Zingiberaceae, and Costaceae, and most of the fossils.

Conclusions

Inclusion of eight fossil taxa expands the Zingiberales tree and helps explain the difficulty in resolving relationships. Inclusion of fossils was possible in part due to a large morphological data set built using nondestructive microcomputed tomography data. Collaboration between paleo‐ and neobotanists and technology such as microcomputed tomography will help to build the tree of death and ultimately improve our understanding of the evolutionary history of monocots.
Agathistrees of Patagonia's Cretaceous‐Paleogene death landscapes and their evolutionary significance
Authors: Escapa Ignacio H. , Iglesias Ari , Wilf Peter , Catalano Santiago A. , Caraballo‐Ortiz Marcos A. , Rubén Cúneo N.
Published: August 2018

Premise of the Study

The fossil record ofAgathishistorically has been restricted to Australasia. Recently described fossils from the Eocene of Patagonian Argentina showed a broader distribution than found previously, which is reinforced here with a new early PaleoceneAgathisspecies from Patagonia. No previous phylogenetic analyses have included fossilAgathisspecies.

Methods

We describe macrofossils from Patagonia ofAgathisvegetative and reproductive organs from the early Danian, as well as leaves withAgathisaffinities from the latest Maastrichtian. A total evidence phylogenetic analysis is performed, including the new Danian species together with other fossil species having agathioid affinities.

Key Results

Early DanianAgathis immortalissp. nov. is the oldest definite occurrence ofAgathisand one of the most completeAgathisspecies in the fossil record. Leafy twigs, leaves, pollen cones, pollen, ovuliferous complexes, and seeds show features that are extremely similar to the living genus.Dilwynitespollen grains, associated today with bothWollemiaandAgathisand known since the Turonian, were found in situ within the pollen cones.

Conclusions

Agathiswas present in Patagonia ca. 2 million years after the K‐Pg boundary, and the putative latest Cretaceous fossils suggest that the genus survived the K–Pg extinction.Agathis immortalissp nov. is recovered in a stem position for the genus, whileA. zamunerae(Eocene, Patagonia) is recovered as part of the crown. A Mesozoic divergence for the Araucariaceae crown group, previously challenged by molecular divergence estimates, is supported by the combined phylogenetic analyses including the fossil taxa.
Mutations in WDR4 as a new cause of Galloway–Mowat syndrome
Authors: Braun Daniela A. , Shril Shirlee , Sinha Aditi , Schneider Ronen , Tan Weizhen , Ashraf Shazia , Hermle Tobias , Jobst‐Schwan Tilman , Widmeier Eugen , Majmundar Amar J. , Daga Ankana , Warejko Jillian K. , Nakayama Makiko , Schapiro David , Chen Jing , Airik Merlin , Rao Jia , Schmidt Johanna Magdalena , Hoogstraten Charlotte A. , Hugo Hannah , Meena Jitendra , Lek Monkol , Laricchia Kristen M. , Bagga Arvind , Hildebrandt Friedhelm
Published: August 2018

Galloway‐Mowat syndrome (GAMOS) is a phenotypically heterogeneous disorder characterized by neurodevelopmental defects combined with renal‐glomerular disease, manifesting with proteinuria. To identify additional monogenic disease causes, we here performed whole exome sequencing (WES), linkage analysis, and homozygosity mapping in three affected siblings of an Indian family with GAMOS. Applying established criteria for variant filtering, we identify a novel homozygous splice site mutation in the gene WDR4 as the likely disease‐causing mutation in this family. In line with previous reports, we observe growth deficiency, microcephaly, developmental delay, and intellectual disability as phenotypic features resulting from WDR4 mutations. However, the newly identified allele additionally gives rise to proteinuria and nephrotic syndrome, a phenotype that was never reported in patients with WDR4 mutations. Our data thus expand the phenotypic spectrum of WDR4 mutations by demonstrating that, depending on the specific mutated allele, a renal phenotype may be present. This finding suggests that GAMOS may occupy a phenotypic spectrum with other microcephalic diseases. Furthermore, WDR4 is an additional example of a gene that encodes a tRNA modifying enzyme and gives rise to GAMOS, if mutated. Our findings thereby support the recent observation that, like neurons, podocytes of the renal glomerulus are particularly vulnerable to cellular defects resulting from altered tRNA modifications.
Photoelectrochemical Strategy for Discrimination of Microbial Pathogens Using Conjugated Polymers
Authors: Zhou Xin , Zhang Pengbo , Lv Fengting , Liu Libing , Wang Shu
Published: August 2018

A photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensor for facile and sensitive identification of pathogenic microorganisms was developed. Cationic poly(phenylene vinylene) derivative (PPV) as photoelectrochemical active species was modified on the electrode. Under light irradiation, PPV could be excited and generate efficient photocurrent. PPV also had the ability to bind with negatively charged membrane of pathogenic microorganisms, which hindered the electron transfer between electrode and electrolyte. As a result, the photocurrent would decrease obviously. For E. coli, B. subtilis and C. albicans, the photocurrent density was reduced by 18, 33 and 59 %, respectively. Based on the reduction degree of the photocurrent after capturing different types of species of pathogenic microorganisms, a PEC sensor for discrimination of pathogenic microorganisms was realized.
Structure and Functionality of Polyelectrolyte Brushes: A Surface Force Perspective
Authors: Xu Xin , Billing Mark , Ruths Marina , Klok Harm‐Anton , Yu Jing
Published: August 2018

The unique functionality of polyelectrolyte brushes depends on several types of specific interactions, including solvent structure effects, hydrophobic forces, electrostatic interactions, and specific ion interactions. Subtle variations in the solution environment can lead to conformational and surface structural changes of the polyelectrolyte brushes, which are mainly discussed from a surface‐interaction perspective in this Focus Review. A brief overview is given of recent theoretical and experimental progress in the structure of polyelectrolyte brushes in various environments. Two important techniques for surface‐force measurements are described, the surface forces apparatus (SFA) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), and some recent results on polyelectrolyte brushes are shown. Lastly, this Focus Review highlights the use of these surface‐grafted polyelectrolyte brushes in the creation of functional surfaces for various applications, including nonfouling surfaces, boundary lubricants, and stimuli‐responsive surfaces.
Enhanced Dual Fuel Cell Electrocatalysis with Trimetallic PtPdCo Mesoporous Nanoparticles
Authors: Li Chunjie , Xu You , Li Yinghao , Xue Hairong , Wang Ziqiang , Li Xiaonian , Wang Liang , Wang Hongjing
Published: August 2018

The facile preparation of platinum‐based catalysts with designed compositions and structures is of great importance for fuel cells. In this work, a one‐pot method is developed to synthesize monodispersed trimetallic PtPdCo mesoporous nanoparticles (PtPdCo MNs) with uniform morphology and size. The proposed synthetic method does not require any hard template or organic solvent, which greatly simplifies the preparation procedure. PtPdCo MNs, with a highly porous structure, exhibit enhanced electrocatalytic activities and excellent stabilities for both the formic acid oxidation reaction and the oxygen reduction reaction, relative to bimetallic PtPd MNs and commercial Pt/C catalyst. The proposed synthetic method is highly valuable for the design of mesoporous multimetallic catalysts for fuel cells.
Selenacalix[4]dithienothiophene: Synthesis, Structure, and Complexation of a Cyclic Tetramer of Selenide‐Bridging Dithienothiophene
Authors: Hasegawa Masashi , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Inoue Ryota , Haga Shiori , Mazaki Yasuhiro
Published: August 2018

An efficient cyclization toward a cyclic tetramer of dithienothiophene (DTT) linked by divalent selenium atoms has been developed via palladium‐catalyzed coupling reaction of (nBu3Sn)2Se. X‐ray analysis revealed its highly symmetrical structure had an alternate arrangement of DTT units. There are several Se⋅⋅⋅π interactions forming a supramolecular network leading to large void channel space. The cyclic tetramer possesses moderate electron‐donating ability. Furthermore, the cyclic tetramer undergoes complexation with C60 in a 1:2 ratio in the solid state to give a highly symmetrical three‐dimensional array of C60.
A Numerical Approach To Generalized Periodic Sylvester Matrix Equation
Authors: Lv Lingling , Zhang Zhe
Published: August 2018

The paper is dedicated to solving the generalized periodic discrete‐time Sylvester matrix equation, which is frequently encountered in control theory and applied mathematics. An iterative algorithm for this equation is presented. The proposed method is developed from a point of least squares method. The rationality of the method is testified by theoretical analysis. The presented approach is numerically reliable and requires less computation. Two numerical examples illustrate the effectiveness of the raised results.
Fuzzy Sliding Mode Control for Active Suspension System with Proportional Differential Sliding Mode Observer
Authors: Lin Bin , Su Xiaoyu , Li Xiaohang
Published: August 2018

In this paper, a generalized augmented transformation is considered for the quarter active suspension system with uncertainties. Specifically, the model uncertainties are converted to the augmented states and a new proportion differential sliding mode observer is used to estimate state variables and model uncertainties. A differential geometric method is applied to linearize the nonlinear suspension model. In order to weaken the vibration effect of sliding mode control force and reduce energy consumption, a fuzzy sliding mode controller is designed for the active suspension system and the fuzzy controller is applied to adjust switching control gain according to the reaching condition of sliding mode surface. The simulations are conducted to illustrate the effectiveness and advantages of this proposed observer and control strategy.
Trends, correlates, and survival of infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and its subtypes
Authors: Ramakrishnan Rema , Salemi Jason L. , Stuart Amy L. , Chen Henian , O'Rourke Kathleen , Obican Sarah , Kirby Russell S.
Published: August 2018

Objective

To identify the live‐birth prevalence, trends, correlates, and neonatal and 1‐year survival rates of congenital diaphragmatic hernia.

Methods

Using a population‐based, retrospective cohort study design, we examined 1,025 cases of congenital diaphragmatic hernia from the 1998–2012 Florida Birth Defects Registry. We used Poisson and joinpoint regression models to compute prevalence ratios and temporal trends, respectively. Kaplan–Meier survival curves and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to describe neonatal and 1‐year survival and estimate hazard ratios representing the predictors of infant survival.

Results

The birth prevalence of congenital diaphragmatic hernia was 3.19 per 10,000 live births (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.00–3.39); there was a 4.2% yearly increase among multiple cases only. Among all cases, maternal education less than high school (prevalence ratio: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.02–1.53), high school/associate degree/GED (prevalence ratio: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.01–1.32), multiple birth (prevalence ratio: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.05–1.81), and male sex (prevalence ratio: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.05–1.32) were associated with increased risk for congenital diaphragmatic hernia. The 24‐hr, neonatal, and 1‐year survival rates were 93.6%, 79.8%, and 71.2%, respectively. The highest hazard ratio of 17.87 (95% CI: 1.49–213.82) was observed for neonatal mortality among cases associated with chromosomal anomalies and born <37 weeks at < 1,500 g. Among isolated cases, multiple birth (hazard ratio: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.20–0.86) was associated with decreased 1‐year mortality.

Conclusion

Low maternal education and multiple birth may be linked to congenital diaphragmatic hernia. The trends in prevalence, epidemiologic correlates, and predictors of early survival can differ between congenital diaphragmatic hernia subtypes—isolated, multiple, and chromosomal.© 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
What exactly do RCT findings tell us in education research?
Authors: Koutsouris George , Norwich Brahm
Published: August 2018

This article addresses issues related to whether null randomised control trial (RCT) findings can by themselves be a secure indicator of programme failure. This is done by drawing on the findings of the evaluation of the Integrated Group Reading (IGR) programme using a number of teacher case studies. The case studies illustrate how the same intervention can be implemented differently in local circumstances, with different outcomes. The different ways in which IGR was implemented reflect how teachers experienced the pressures of the national curriculum, their attitudes to the IGR approach to reading, the school ethos and the resources and support available—and point to how IGR use might be enhanced to result in more significant reading gains. The article argues that in addition to the statistical findings, evaluators ought to pay attention to the context in which a programme is implemented, especially when it comes to complex interventions trialled in real classrooms. It is also concluded that it is preferable to avoid asking whether a programme works or not for all, and under any circumstances. A focus on the different ways that programmes work under different circumstances, and when implemented by different people, is a more useful perspective. This might not provide the certainty that policy‐makers would likely opt for, but it captures better the complexity associated with teaching programme evaluation.
Nanopore Decoding of Oligonucleotides in DNA Computing
Authors: Kawano Ryuji
Published: August 2018

In conventional DNA‐computation methods involving logic gate operations, the output molecules are detected and decoded mainly by gel electrophoresis or fluorescence measurements. To employ rapid and label‐free decoding, nanopore technology, an emerging methodology for single‐molecule detection or DNA sequencing, is proposed as a candidate for electrical and simple decoding of DNA computations. This review describes recent approaches to decoding DNA computation using label‐free and electrical nanopore measurements. Several attempts have been successful in DNA decoding with the nanopore either through enzymatic reactions or in water‐in‐oil droplets. Additionally, DNA computing combined with nanopore decoding has clinical applications, including microRNA detection for early diagnosis of cancers. Because this decoding methodology is still in development and not yet widely accepted, this review aims to inform the scientific community regarding usefulness.