bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economy diversification: a potent tool for tourism development in Nigeria
Authors: Ajani F , Kalu K.E.
Published: September 2017

Nigeria economy has depended mainly on proceeds from the sales of crude oil to execute most capital projects, recurrent expenditures and funding for various sectors for several years. Studies revealed that most sectors of the economy are currently inert. The emphasis on the alternatives to the use of crude oil in the advanced economies has reduced oil demands and prices, which has further weakened Nigerian earnings and naira value, leading to reduction in crude oil revenue and excess crude oil receipt. Thus, diversification is not just a choice, but a necessity. On this vain, this work reviewed the current state of some sectors in Nigeria, highlighting the effect of dependence on mono-product economy and emphasize tourism potential as a tool for economy diversification. This paper also reviewed tourism development in Nigeria, as a potent tool for economy diversification. Nigeria’s tourism sector has the potential to generate $4 billion yearly. The future for tourism in Nigeria is dependent on the opportunities and challenges being exploited and addressed. The diversity of cultural attractions, the friendly disposition of the people, revamped National Tourism orientations are key advantages in getting the best out of this sector, which would aid in economy boost in this frail time. Therefore, the opportunities and potentials in Nigeria should be exploited, substantial investment planned and strategic marketing of Nigeria as a desirable tourist destination must be in place.Keywords: Economy diversification, Tourism Development, Tourism contribution, Gross Domestic Product, Mono-economy
Feedback effects of boundary-layer meteorological factors on explosive growth of PM2.5 during winter heavy pollution episodes in Beijing from 2013 to 2016
Authors: Zhong Junting , Zhang Xiaoye , Dong Yunsheng , Wang Yaqiang , Wang Jizhi , Zhang Yangmei , Che Haochi
Published: September 2017

Abstract. In January of 2013, February of 2014, December of 2015, and December of 2016 to January 10th of 2017, 12 persistent heavy aerosol pollution episodes (HPEs) occurred in Beijing, which has attracted special attention from the public. During the HPEs, the precise cause of explosive growth in fine particulate matter (PM) is uncertain. Here, we analyzed and estimated relative contributions of boundary-layer meteorological factors to such growth, using ground and vertical meteorological data. Beijing HPEs are generally characterized by the transport stage (TS), whose aerosol pollution formation is primarily caused by pollutants transported from the south of Beijing, and the cumulative stage (CS), in which the cumulative explosive growth (PM mass concentration doubled in ~ 10 hours) is dominated by stable atmospheric stratification characteristic of southerly slight or calm winds, near-ground anomalous inversion, and moisture accumulation. During the CSs, observed southerly weak winds facilitate local pollutant accumulation by limiting the invasion of northerly clean winds and minimizing horizontal pollutant diffusion. Established from TSs, elevated PM levels scatter more solar radiation back to the space to reduce near-ground temperature. This radiation reduction decreases near-ground saturation vapor pressure and very likely causes anomalous inversion. The decreased saturation pressure significantly increases relative humidity; the inversion subsequently reduces vertical turbulent diffusion and boundary layer height to trap pollutants and accumulate water vapor. Appreciable near-ground moisture accumulation (RH > 80 %) further enhances aerosol hygroscopic growth and accelerates liquid-phase and heterogeneous reactions, in which incompletely quantified chemical mechanisms need more investigation. Noted meteorological feedback on PM explains over 70 % in cumulative explosive growth of PM.
The high-resolution extraterrestrial solar spectrum (QASUMEFTS) determined from ground-based solar irradiance measurements
Authors: Gröbner Julian , Kröger Ingo , Egli Luca , Hülsen Gregor , Riechelmann Stefan , Sperfeld Peter
Published: September 2017

Abstract. A high-resolution extraterrestrial solar spectrum has been determined from ground-based measurements of direct solar spectral irradiance (SSI) over the wavelength range from 300 to 500 nm using the Langley-plot technique. The measurements were obtained at the Izaña Atmospheric Research Centre from the Agencia Estatal de Meteorología, Tenerife, Spain, during the period 12 to 24 September 2016. This solar spectrum (QASUMEFTS) was combined from medium-resolution (bandpass of 0.86 nm) measurements of the QASUME (Quality Assurance of Spectral Ultraviolet Measurements in Europe) spectroradiometer in the wavelength range from 300 to 500 nm and high-resolution measurements (0.025 nm) from a Fourier transform spectroradiometer (FTS) over the wavelength range from 305 to 380 nm. The Kitt Peak solar flux atlas was used to extend this high-resolution solar spectrum to 500 nm. The expanded uncertainties of this solar spectrum are 2 % between 310 and 500 nm and 4 % at 300 nm. The comparison of this solar spectrum with solar spectra measured in space (top of the atmosphere) gave very good agreements in some cases, while in some other cases discrepancies of up to 5 % were observed. The QASUMEFTS solar spectrum represents a benchmark dataset with uncertainties lower than anything previously published. The metrological traceability of the measurements to the International System of Units (SI) is assured by an unbroken chain of calibrations leading to the primary spectral irradiance standard of the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt in Germany.
Noise in raw data from magnetic observatories
Authors: Khomutov Sergey Y. , Mandrikova Oksana V. , Budilova Ekaterina A. , Arora Kusumita , Manjula Lingala
Published: September 2017

Abstract. In spite of significant progress in the development of new devices for magnetic measurements, mathematical and computational technologies for data processing and means of communication, the quality of magnetic data accessible through the data centres (for example, World Data Centres or INTERMAGNET) still largely depends on the actual conditions in which observation of the Earth's magnetic field is performed at observatories. Processing of raw data of magnetic measurements by observatory staff plays an important role. It includes effective identification of noise and elimination of its influence on final data. In this paper, on the basis of the experience gained during long-term magnetic monitoring carried out at the observatories of IKIR FEB RAS (Russia) and CSIR-NGRI (India), we present a review of methods commonly encountered in actual practice for noise identification and the possibility of reducing noise influence.
Measuring strain during a cylindrical grinding process using embedded sensors in a workpiece
Authors: Sarma Mridusmita , Borchers Florian , Dumstorff Gerrit , Heinzel Carsten , Lang Walter
Published: September 2017

Abstract. This paper presents the results of using a sensor-integrated workpiece for in situ measurement of strain during an outer-diameter cylindrical grinding process. The motivation of this work is to measure in situ process parameters using integrated sensors in a workpiece in order to characterize the manufacturing process. Resistive sensors that operate on the same principle as conventional strain gauges were fabricated on wafers made of steel using standard microtechnology and later the wafers were diced to form unique sensor-integrated steel components (sensor inlays). These inlays are embedded into a groove on the top surface of a cylindrical workpiece using epoxy adhesive. The workpiece is also made of the same steel as the sensor wafers and has similar properties due to a heat treatment process, thereby maintaining the homogeneity of the material over the whole contact area. The sensor-integrated workpiece was used to perform experiments in a Studer S41 high-performance cylindrical grinding machine. The sensor response to the internal strain was recorded during every grinding step starting from a depth of 1 mm down to 2 mm from the top surface. Such an application of sensor integration in materials for in situ process monitoring can be used in other manufacturing processes as well and this can help to observe internal loads (mechanical or thermal) in manufacturing processes.
Observation of dominance of swells over wind seas in the coastal waters of the Gulf of Mannar, India
Authors: Amrutha M. M. , Sanil Kumar V.
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Wind seas typically dominate over swell seas in coastal gulfs. Waves measured at a location having a water depth of 12 m in the near-shore waters of the Gulf of Mannar during a 1-year period (1 May 2015 to 30 April 2016) are used to examine the predominance of wind seas and swells through spectral characterization. The study shows that even though the location is in a gulf, the annual average value ( ∼  0.84 m) of the significant wave height in this area is comparable to that along the coastal waters of the Indian subcontinent, but the annual maximum value ( ∼  1.7 m) recorded is much less than that (3 to 5 m) observed in those regions. Also, large seasonal variations are not observed in the wave height. The waves of the study region are under the control of sea breeze, with the maximum in the late evening hours and the minimum in the early morning hours. A 5 % increase in the forcing wind field during the monsoon period improved the comparison statistics between the model wave height and the measured values. A total of 53 % of the surface height variance in the study area is a result of swells from the southeast and south, and the remainder are wind seas from the east and southeast.
On the need of a time and location dependent estimation of the NDSI threshold value for reducing existing uncertainties in snow cover maps at different scales
Authors: Härer Stefan , Bernhardt Matthias , Siebers Matthias , Schulz Karsten
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Knowledge about the current snow cover extent is essential for characterising energy and moisture fluxes at the earth surface. The snow-covered area (SCA) is often estimated by using optical satellite information in combination with the normalized-difference snow index (NDSI). The NDSI thereby uses a threshold for the definition if a satellite pixel is assumed to be snow covered or snow free. The spatio-temporal representativeness of the standard threshold of 0.4 is however questionable at the local scale. Here, we use local snow cover maps derived from ground-based photography to continuously calibrate the NDSI threshold values (NDSIthr) of Landsat satellite images at two European mountain sites of the period from 2010 to 2015. Both sites, the Research Catchment Zugspitzplatt (RCZ, Germany) and the Vernagtferner area (VF, Austria), are located within a single Landsat scene. Nevertheless, the long-term analysis of the NDSIthr demonstrated that the NDSIthr at these sites are not correlated and different to the standard threshold of 0.4. For further comparison, a dynamic and locally optimized NDSI threshold was used as well as another literature threshold value. It was shown that large uncertainties in the prediction of the SCA of up to 24.1 % exist in satellite snow cover maps in case the standard threshold of 0.4 is used, but a newly developed calibrated quadratic polynomial model which is accounting for seasonal threshold dynamics can reduce this error. The model minimizes the SCA uncertainties at the calibration site VF by 50 % in the evaluation period and was also able to improve the results at RCZ in a significant way. Additionally, a scaling experiment has shown that the positive effect of a locally adapted threshold diminishes from a pixel size of 500 m and more which underlines the general applicability of the standard threshold at larger scales.
Use of Hotelling's T^2: Outlier Diagnostics in Mixtures
Authors: Jensen D. R. , Ramirez D. E.
Published: September 2017

Given Gaussian observation vectors $[\seqcl{\BY}{n}]$ having a common mean and dispersion matrix, a pervading issue is to identify shifted observations of type $\{\BYi\!\to\!\BYi\!+\!\bdeli\}.$ Conventional usage enjoins Hotelling's $\Tisq$ diagnostics, derived and applied under the mutual independence of $[\seqcl{\BY}{n}]$. Independence often fails, yet the need to identify outliers nonetheless persists. Accordingly, the present study reexamines $\Tisq$ under dependencies to include equicorrelations and more general matrices. Such dependencies are found in the analysis of calibrated vector measurements and elsewhere. In addition, mixtures of these distributions having star--shaped contours arise on occasion in practice. Nonetheless, the $\Tisq$ diagnostics are shown to remain exact in level and power for all such mixtures. Moreover, further matrix distributions, not necessarily having finite moments, are seen to generalize $n$--dimensional spherical symmetry to include non--Gaussian matrices of order $(n\!\times\!k)$ supporting $\Tisq.$ For these the use of $\Tisq$ remains exact in level. These findings serve to expand considerably the range of applicability of $\Tisq$ in practice, to include matrix Cauchy and other heavy tailed distributions intrinsic to econometric and other studies. Case studies serve to illuminate the methodology.
Aanzetten tot verbetering van de opsporing
Authors: Kop N. , Klerks P.
Published: September 2017

Criminal investigations, evaluation, police reform, innovation, generational change

The authors reflect on ‘Handelen naar waarheid’ (Acting on truth), an assessment of the state of criminal investigations in The Netherlands, which appeared in May 2016. This report, assigned by the police and public prosecution service and written by four inside experts, caused substantial turmoil in the police organization and beyond. The report addresses six domains: professionalism, attitude and behavior, direction and leadership, capacity for change, organizational structure and business management. The critical and transparent self-reflection by the police received praise from policymakers, journalists and academic observers. It also met with recognition and appreciation in the law enforcement community, in particular among investigators and prosecutors. In the wake of the report, a reform program was organized to modernize both the police and the prosecution service in order to increase the quality and effectiveness of their work. Such reform is deemed necessary because crime problems have become ever more complex and citizens increasingly organize their own (counter-)investigations. The authors conclude that in spite of many recent initiatives, truly innovative practices remain scarce. Also, the crucial ambitions to increase the educational level of investigators and the organizational culture are still far from realized.
De uitdagingen voor gebiedsgebonden politiezorg
Authors: Meurs T. , Kreulen B.J.
Published: September 2017

The challenges for territorial police care: Ambiguous developments, pathways and new roads

This article focuses on the challenges facing Community Oriented Policing (COP) in an increasingly complex society. The authors describe how the Dutch police adresses this context through a new police organisation on a national basis, specified job protocols, intelligence led policing and higher educated specialists. Seeking for alternatives the authors argue that COP should be based on a problem centered approach which profits from the insights of local policemen and operational specialists. Adressing ambiguous problems will fail when only applying system logic. Instead, moral involvement and sensemaking are indispensable.
Scc2/Nipbl hops between chromosomal cohesin rings after loading
Authors: Rhodes James , Mazza Davide , Nasmyth Kim , Uphoff Stephan
Published: September 2017

The cohesin complex mediates DNA-DNA interactions both between (sister chromatid cohesion) and within chromosomes (DNA looping). It has been suggested that intra-chromosome loops are generated by extrusion of DNAs through the lumen of cohesin’s ring. Scc2 (Nipbl) stimulates cohesin’s ABC-like ATPase and is essential for loading cohesin onto chromosomes. However, it is possible that the stimulation of cohesin’s ATPase by Scc2 also has a post-loading function, for example driving loop extrusion. Using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) and single-molecule tracking in human cells, we show that Scc2 binds dynamically to chromatin, principally through an association with cohesin. Scc2’s movement within chromatin is consistent with a 'stop-and-go' or 'hopping' motion. We suggest that a low diffusion coefficient, a low stoichiometry relative to cohesin, and a high affinity for chromosomal cohesin enables Scc2 to move rapidly from one chromosomal cohesin complex to another, performing a function distinct from loading.
The distribution shifts of Pinus armandii and its response to temperature and precipitation in China
Authors: Zheng Xiaofeng , Gao Pengxiang , Zhang ShuoXin
Published: September 2017

Background

The changing climate, particularly in regard to temperature and precipitation, is already affecting tree species’ distributions. Pinus armandii, which dominates on the Yungui Plateau and in the Qinba Mountains in China, is of economic, cultural and ecological value. We wish to test the correlations between the distribution shift of P. armandii and changing climate, and figure out how it tracks future climate change.

Methods

We sampled the surface soil at sites throughout the distribution of P. armandii to compare the relative abundance of pollen to the current percent cover of plant species. This was used to determine possible changes in the distribution P. armandii. Given the hilly terrain, elevation was considered together with temperature and precipitation as variables correlated with distribution shifts of P. armandii.

Results

We show that P. armandii is undergoing change in its geographic range, including retraction, a shift to more northern areas and from the upper high part of the mountains to a lower-altitude part in hilly areas. Temperature was the strongest correlate of this distribution shift. Elevation and precipitation were also both significantly correlated with distribution change of P. armandii, but to a lesser degree than temperature.

Conclusion

The geographic range of P. armandii has been gradually decreasing under the influence of climate change. This provides evidence of the effect of climate change on trees at the species level and suggests that at least some species will have a limited ability to track the changing climate.
Antibiotics for Pediatric Acute Bacterial Sinusitis
Authors: Chiotos Kathleen , Gerber Jeffrey S.
Published: October 2024

This JAMA Insights examines antibiotic selection for the treatment of acute bacterial rhinosinusitis in US pediatric patients, specifically amoxicillin vs amoxicillin-clavulanate.
Helping Dual-Eligible Individuals Navigate Medicare and Medicaid
Authors: Johnston Kenton J. , Roberts Eric T. , Figueroa Jose F.
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint discusses helping dual-eligible beneficiaries navigate Medicare and Medicaid coverage options.
Age-Stratified Risk Categories for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Therapies
Authors: McCarthy Cian P. , Rahimi Kazem , McEvoy John W.
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint describes age-specific risk thresholds for cardiovascular disease prevention therapies.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Maternal and Offspring Outcomes
Authors: Li Kaiyang , Piguet Vincent , Croitoru David , Wei Shu Qin , Brousseau Émilie , O’Brien Elizabeth , Auger Nathalie
Published: October 2024

Importance

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is associated with morbidity in persons of reproductive age, but the effect on maternal and offspring outcomes is understudied.

Objective

To determine the association of HS with pregnancy outcomes and maternal and child morbidity in the long term.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based longitudinal cohort study with up to 16 years of follow-up took place between 2006 and 2022 in Quebec, Canada. .

Exposure

Maternal HS.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes included hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational diabetes, and other birth outcomes as well as the long-term risk of hospitalization up to 16 years after delivery. The study used adjusted log-binomial and Cox proportional hazards regression models to estimate the association between maternal HS and pregnancy outcomes or hospitalization following pregnancy. Outcomes in both mothers and offspring were assessed.

Results

There were 1 324 488 deliveries during the study, including 1332 (0.1%) among mothers with HS. Compared with patients without HS, patients with HS had a greater risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (risk ratio [RR], 1.55 [95% CI, 1.29-1.87]), gestational diabetes (RR, 1.61 [95% CI, 1.40-1.85]), and severe maternal morbidity (RR, 1.38 [95% CI, 1.03-1.84]). In neonates, maternal HS was associated with risk of preterm birth (RR, 1.28 [95% CI, 1.07-1.53]) and birth defects (RR, 1.29 [95% CI, 1.07-1.56]). In the long term, HS was associated with 2.29 times the risk of maternal hospitalization (95% CI, 2.07-2.55) and 1.31 times the risk of childhood hospitalization (95% CI, 1.18-1.45), including hospitalization for respiratory, metabolic, psychiatric, and immune-related morbidity over time.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study found that HS is associated with adverse maternal and offspring outcomes in the peripartum period and in the long term. Early detection and management of HS may help mitigate these outcomes.
Addressing the Escalating Problems That Patients Encounter When Filling Buprenorphine Prescriptions
Authors: Winstanley Erin L. , Gray Angela , Thornton Douglas
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint describes both the current barriers patients face when filling their prescriptions for buprenorphine at pharmacies and a list of proposed fixes requiring changes at the federal, state, insurance, and clinician level.
Failure to Rescue Female Patients Undergoing High-Risk Surgery
Authors: Wagner Catherine M. , Joynt Maddox Karen E. , Ailawadi Gorav , Ibrahim Andrew M.
Published: October 2024

Importance

Female patients have higher mortality rates after high-risk surgery than male patients. It is unknown whether this mortality gap is due to different rates of postoperative complications or if complications are addressed differently by sex, causing complications to lead to death—so-called failure to rescue.

Objective

To evaluate sex differences in failure to rescue across high-risk surgical procedures.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from Medicare beneficiaries from October 2015 to February 2020 who underwent high-risk vascular or cardiac surgical procedures, including abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, coronary artery bypass grafting, aortic valve replacement, and mitral valve replacement or repair. Data analysis was performed from August 2023 to March 2024.

Exposures

The primary exposure was patient sex.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes were risk-adjusted rates of complications, 30-day mortality, and failure to rescue, which was defined as a death occurring after a serious complication. Categorical variables are presented as frequencies and proportions and compared using χ2 analysis. Continuous variables were tested for normality and compared using a t test.

Results

A total of 863 305 Medicare beneficiaries were included in this study cohort, of whom 304 176 (35.2%) were female. Mean (SD) age was slightly higher in female patients (74.8 [9.3] years) than male patients (73.4 [8.5] years), and female patients had more comorbidities than male patients (≥2 Elixhauser comorbidities, female: 262 809 [86.4%] vs male: 465 231 [83.2%]). Female patients were more likely to receive care at large hospitals and hospitals with a higher surgical case volume. Overall, female and male patients had similar rates of complications (female: 14.98% vs male: 14.37%; adjusted relative risk [aRR], 1.04; 95% CI, 1.03-1.05; P < .001). However, female patients had higher rates of 30-day mortality (female: 4.22% vs male: 3.34%; aRR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.23-1.29; P < .001) and higher rates of failure to rescue (female: 10.71% vs male: 8.58%; aRR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.22-1.28; P < .001). A similar pattern was observed when stratified by each procedure.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study among Medicare beneficiaries undergoing high-risk surgery, male and female patients experienced similar rates of serious complications, but female patients with complications were more likely to die. In other words, clinicians fail to rescue female patients with complications after high-risk surgery more often than male patients. Improving the recognition and management of female patients’ complications postoperatively may narrow the sex disparity after high-risk surgery.
The publish or perish game: an interview with the inventor
Authors: Shu Daisy Y. , Meadows Vik , Alvidrez Roberto Mota , Bai Max
Published: October 2024

Many academics often have to face the pressure to constantly publish or quietly perish. The Publish or Perish Game™, a new tabletop game created by Max Bai, flips the script and offers a satirical reflection on the academic publishing process, turning the often‐stressful endeavor into an entertainment experience. In this interview, Max Bai discusses the inspiration behind the game, the creative processes, and the broader impact he hopes the game will have on the academic community.
First‐Principles Study of the Effects of High‐Order Anharmonicity on the Thermal Transport Properties and Thermoelectric Effects in the Lattice Dynamics of 12 New Full–Heusler Compounds X2YTe (X = Na, K, Rb, Cs; Y = Zn, Cd, Hg)
Authors: Wang Yue , Zhao Yinchang , Ni Jun , Dai Zhenhong
Published: October 2024

In this study, advanced first‐principles calculations combined with self‐consistent phonon theory and the Boltzmann transport equation are used to assess the thermoelectric properties of novel Full–Heusler materials X2YTe (X = Na, K, Rb, Cs; Y = Zn, Cd, Hg). These materials exhibit low formation energies, facilitating synthesis under standard conditions. This analysis showed that lattice anharmonicity increases with the atomic mass of X and decreases with the atomic mass of Y due to the rattling effect of Y atoms. Significant rattling effects are identified, prompting the inclusion of higher‐order anharmonic effects. By renormalizing the phonon spectrum and accounting for three‐phonon and four‐phonon scattering, the mechanisms behind the low lattice thermal conductivity in these compounds is uncovered. The combination of low lattice thermal conductivity and high power factors resulted in remarkable thermoelectric figure of merit values at optimal doping concentrations and temperatures. Notably, except for Na2ZnTe and Na2HgTe, all other materials surpassed the long‐standing figure of merit record of less than 3, with Rb2ZnTe achieving a figure of merit of 8.11 at 700 K with an n‐type doping concentration of 2 × 1019. The inclusion of spin‐orbit coupling led to less than a 10% reduction in the thermoelectric figure of merit, underscoring the superior thermoelectric performance of these materials.
Mutually Activated 2D Ti0.87O2/MXene Monolayers Through Electronic Compensation Effect as Highly Efficient Cathode Catalysts of Li–O2 Batteries
Authors: Zhang Dongmei , Zhang Guoliang , Liu Runbo , Yang Ruonan , Li Xia , Zhang Xiuqi , Yu Han , Zhang Pengxiang , Li Bao‐Wen , Hou Hua , Guo Zhanhu , Dang Feng
Published: October 2024

2D materials exhibit remarkable electrochemical performance as the cathode catalyst in lithium–oxygen batteries (LOBs). Their catalytic capability mainly derives from their 2D surface with tunable surface chemistry and unique electronic states. Herein, Ti0.87O2 and Ti3C2 MXene monolayers are applied to construct a face/face 2D heterostructure to enhance the catalytic performance in LOBs. It is demonstrated that electronic compensation from the O‐terminated MXene to Ti0.87O2 side is achieved through the built‐in electric field and the overlap of Ti 3d and O 2p orbitals between Ti0.87O2 and MXene units. As a result, the ORR/OER catalytic activity is improved in Ti0.87O2/MXene heterojunction due to the modulated p‐band center that optimizes the s–p coupling with the key intermediate LiO2. The Ti0.87O2/MXene cathode presents a structural stability and long‐term cycling life of 425 cycles (2534 h) at 200 mA g−1 and 407 cycles at 1000 mA g−1 with a fixed capacity of 600 mAh g−1, being nearly five and three times higher than that of pure Ti0.87O2 and MXene cathodes, respectively.
Centimeter‐Scale and Honeycomb‐Like Bismuth Sulfide Film Composed of Triangular Structural Units for Flexible Photodetector
Authors: Rong Ping , Gao Shiyong , Li Lin , He Wen , Zhang Mingyi , Gao Qiong , Ren Shuai , Han Yajie , Jiao Shujie , Wang Jinzhong
Published: October 2024

Films with honeycomb‐like structures have became ideal network structures for the development of flexible photodetectors due to their superior mechanical stability and merits in large active surface area, high carrier transport efficiency and well light absorption capacity. In this work, a honeycomb‐like Bi2S3 film with centimeter‐scale (2 cm × 2 cm) is synthesized on an ultrathin flexible fluorophlogopite mica substrate, which consists of a well‐stabilized arrangement of triangular unit structures forming an interconnected network structure. Based on the as‐grown honeycomb‐like Bi2S3 film, a flexible photodetector with a broadband response from ultraviolet to infrared is constructed, which displays the highest responsivity (Rλ) of 611.2 mA W−1 and specific detectivity (D*) of 4.77 × 1010 Jones. And at 850 nm light illumination, there is nearly no deterioration in Rλ and D* of the Bi2S3 flexible photodetector after successive multiple bends, benefiting from the excellent structural stability of the triangular honeycomb network structure. Notably, the device maintains excellent detection performance after 1 week of prolonged bending in air without any encapsulation, and its photocurrent can still reach 90.39% of the initial photocurrent. In addition, the device also exhibits favorable durability, cycle stability, as well as high‐definition imaging ability in bending state and after bending recovery.
Functionalized Modification of Conjugated Porous Polymers for Full Reaction Photosynthesis of H2O2
Authors: Luo Xiaobo , Zhou Shiyuan , Zhou Sheng , Zhou Xinyu , Huang Jia , Liu Yingjie , Wang Danfeng , Liu Guangfeng , Gu Peiyang
Published: October 2024

Modulating the molecular structure to achieve the full reaction including oxygen reduction reaction and water oxidation reaction is a promising strategy for efficient photosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) but remains a challenge. Herein, a triphenylamine and naphthalimide‐based conjugated porous polymers are synthesized with photo oxidation‐reduction structures, then sulfonate (─SO3H) and quaternary ammonium groups are introduced via a post‐modification strategy to produce two photocatalysts named NI‐TPA‐NI‐SO3H and NI‐TPA‐NI‐N, respectively. Introducing charged functional groups has improved the hydrophilicity and oxygen (O2) adsorption, beyond that, the ─SO3H further stabilizes the adsorbed O2 via hydrogen bonding as well as accelerates the photogenerated carrier separation and electron/proton transport that enables full reaction photosynthesis of H2O2. Therefore, motivated by efficient charge separation, stabilized O2 adsorption, and boosted proton‐coupled electron transfer, NI‐TPA‐NI‐SO3H exhibits the highest light‐driven H2O2 production rate among the three photocatalysts, reaching 3.40 mmol g−1 h−1, which is 4.9‐fold of NI‐TPA‐NI. Remarkably, in the presence of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt, its rate significantly enhances to 14.5 mmol g−1 h−1, superior to most reported organic photocatalysts to the best of the knowledge.
In Situ Electrochemical Evolution of Amorphous Metallic Borides Enabling Long Cycling Room‐/Subzero‐Temperature Sodium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Wang Bin , Wang Lu , Guo Beining , Kong Yueyue , Wang Fengbo , Jing Zhongxin , Qu Guangmeng , Mamoor Muhammad , Wang Dedong , He Xiyu , Kong Lingtong , Xu Liqiang
Published: October 2024

Room temperature sodium‐sulfur batteries (RT Na‐S) have garnered significant attention for their high energy density and cost‐effectiveness, positioning them as a promising alternative to lithium‐ion batteries. However, they encounter challenges such as the dissolution of sodium polysulfides and sluggish kinetics. Introducing high‐activity electrocatalysts and enhancing the density of active sites represents an efficient strategy to enhance reaction kinetics. Here, an amorphous Ni‐B material that undergoes electrochemical evolution to generate the NiSx phase within an operational sodium‐sulfur battery, contrasting with the crystalline NiB counterpart is fabricated. Electrochemical cycling facilitated the establishment of an interface between the amorphous Ni‐B and NiSx, leading to heightened catalytic activity and improved reaction kinetics. Consequently, batteries utilizing the amorphous Ni‐B showcased a notable initial specific capacity of 1487 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1, exhibiting exceptional performance under high current densities of 5 A g−1, in low‐temperature conditions (−10 °C), with high sulfur loading, and in pouch cell configurations.
Visible Light Active 0.95KNbO3‐0.05Ba(Nb1/2Sc1/2)O3 Ferroelectric for Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Takhar Devender , Chahar Ankit , Sharama Deepanshu , Ghosh Ram Krishna , Birajdar Balaji
Published: October 2024

This study reports a visible light active Ba/Sc co‐doped potassium niobate (KNbO3) ferroelectric material for enhanced photocatalytic applications. Through 5% Ba and Sc co‐doping in KNbO3 (i.e., 0.95KNbO3‐0.05Ba(Nb1/2Sc1/2)O3), the electronic band gap (Eg) is narrowed down to the visible range of the solar spectrum. The prepared samples are systematically examined by using X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy, which confirms the successful incorporation of Ba and Sc ions into the KNbO3 lattice. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis reveal particle morphology and chemical homogeneity of prepared samples. The UV–vis spectroscopy and ferroelectric PE‐loop demonstrate enhanced optical absorption compared to host KNbO3 while retaining ferroelectric behavior. The photoelectrochemical (PEC) measurements under visible light irradiation demonstrate a notable enhancement in the photocurrent for 0.95KNbO3‐0.05Ba(Nb1/2Sc1/2)O3 (hereafter denoted by 5KBSNO) compared to undoped KNbO3. Additionally, the 5KBSNO sample displays enhanced RhB dye degradation efficiency, reaching ≈50% compared to parent KNbO3 (≈30%) under light irradiation. First‐principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations are employed to understand the mechanism responsible for the reduced band gap. This study presents a promising material for developing advanced ferroelectric photocatalysts with tailored band structures for efficient solar energy harvesting for energy conversion and contamination remediation applications.
Tailoring of Time for Hydrothermal Synthesis of 2D MoSe2 with Enhanced Adsorption and Electro‐Catalytic Efficiency for Applications in Self‐Cleaning and Hydrogen Energy Generation
Authors: Layek Rashbihari , Kumbhakar Pathik
Published: October 2024

Molybdenum diselenide (MoSe2), a 2D layered transition metal dichalcogenide, has garnered significant scientific research interest for its catalytic and electrocatalytic activities. Here, a straightforward hydrothermal procedure is used to synthesize MoSe2 nanosheets (NSs) and focus on their adsorption capabilities and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity. The MoSe2 NSs which are synthesized by 12 h of hydrothermal treatment found to exhibit the highest adsorption capacity of 91.67 mg g−1. The kinetics of the adsorption process have been found to follow the pseudo‐second‐order model, signifying chemisorption and multilayer adsorption as described by the Freundlich isotherm. The thermodynamic analysis further suggests that the adsorption proceeds by endothermic and spontaneous mechanisms. The self‐cleaning property of the adsorbent is demonstrated by degrading the dye on the adsorbent‐coated cotton fabric. The sample created using a 12 h hydrothermal method has been shown to have a minimal Tafel slope of 58 mV dec−1. It also shows excellent HER activity at low over‐potential and possesses long‐term durability. The dual functionality of MoSe2 NSs in both adsorption and electrocatalytic activity highlights their potential for application in environmental remediation and renewable energy production.
CDC7 Inhibition Potentiates Antitumor Efficacy of PARP Inhibitor in Advanced Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Liu Shini , Deng Peng , Yu Zhaoliang , Hong Jing Han , Gao Jiuping , Huang Yulin , Xiao Rong , Yin Jiaxin , Zeng Xian , Sun Yichen , Wang Peili , Geng Ruizi , Chan Jason Yongsheng , Guan Peiyong , Yu Qiang , Teh Bin‐Tean , Jiang Qingping , Xia Xiaojun , Xiong Ying , Chen Jianfeng , Huo Yongliang , Tan Jing
Published: October 2024

Poly (ADP‐ribose) Polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) have demonstrated remarkable clinical efficacy in treating ovarian cancer (OV) with BRCA1/2 mutations. However, drug resistance inevitably limits their clinical applications and there is an urgent need for improved therapeutic strategies to enhance the clinical utility of PARPi, such as Olaparib. Here, compelling evidence indicates that sensitivity of PARPi is associated with cell cycle dysfunction. Through high‐throughput drug screening with a cell cycle kinase inhibitor library, XL413, a potent cell division cycle 7 (CDC7) inhibitor, is identified which can synergistically enhance the anti‐tumor efficacy of Olaparib. Mechanistically, the combined administration of XL413 and Olaparib demonstrates considerable DNA damage and DNA replication stress, leading to increased sensitivity to Olaparib. Additionally, a robust type‐I interferon response is triggered through the induction of the cGAS/STING signaling pathway. Using murine syngeneic tumor models, the combination treatment further demonstrates enhanced antitumor immunity, resulting in tumor regression. Collectively, this study presents an effective treatment strategy for patients with advanced OV by combining CDC7 inhibitors (CDC7i) and PARPi, offering a promising therapeutic approach for patients with limited response to PARPi.
Programmed BRD9 Degradation and Hedgehog Signaling Activation via Silk‐Based Core‐Shell Microneedles Promote Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Liu Yili , Zhou Mingliang , Sun Jinrui , Yao Enhui , Xu Jingyi , Yang Guangzheng , Wu Xiaolin , Xu Ling , Du Jiahui , Jiang Xinquan
Published: October 2024

Wound healing impairment in diabetes mellitus is associated with an excessive inflammatory response and defective regeneration capability with suppressed Hedgehog (Hh) signaling. The bromodomain protein BRD9, a subunit of the non‐canonical BAF chromatin‐remodeling complex, is critical for macrophage inflammatory response. However, whether the epigenetic drug BRD9 degrader can attenuate the sustained inflammatory state of wounds in diabetes remains unclear. Without a bona fide immune microenvironment, Hh signaling activation fails to effectively rescue the suppressed proliferative ability of dermal fibroblasts and the vascularization of endothelial cells. Therefore, a silk‐based core‐shell microneedle (MN) patch is proposed to dynamically modulate the wound immune microenvironment and the regeneration process. Specifically, the BRD9 degrader released from the shell of the MNs mitigated the excessive inflammatory response in the early phase. Subsequently, the positively charged Hh signaling agonist is released from the negatively charged core of the silk fibroin nanofibers and promotes the phase transition from inflammation to regeneration, including re‐epithelialization, collagen deposition, and angiogenesis. These findings suggest that the programmed silk‐based core‐shell MN patch is an ideal therapeutic strategy for effective skin regeneration in diabetic wounds.
EIF4A3‐Induced Circular RNA CircDdb1 Promotes Muscle Atrophy through Encoding a Novel Protein CircDdb1‐867aa
Authors: Zhu Xiaolan , Yang Tingting , Zheng Yongjun , Nie Qiumeng , Chen Jingying , Li Qian , Ren Xinyi , Yin Xiaohang , Wang Siqi , Yan Yuwei , Liu Zhengyu , Wu Ming , Lu Dongchao , Yu Yan , Chen Lei , Chatterjee Emeli , Li Guoping , Cretoiu Dragos , Bowen T Scott , Li Jin , Xiao Junjie
Published: October 2024

Little is known about if and how circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in skeletal muscle atrophy. Here a conserved circular RNA Damage‐specific DNA binding protein 1 (circDdb1), derived from the host gene encoding Damage‐specific DNA binding protein 1 (DDB1), as a mechanism of muscle atrophy is identified. circDdb1 expression is markedly increased in a variety of muscle atrophy types in vivo and in vitro, and human aging muscle. Both in vivo and in vitro, ectopic expression of circDdb1 causes muscle atrophy. In contrast, multiple forms of muscle atrophy caused by dexamethasone, tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), or angiotensin II (Ang II) in myotube cells, as well as by denervation, angiotensin II, and immobility in mice, are prevented by circDdb1 inhibition. Eukaryotic initiation factor 4A3 (EIF4A3) is identified as a regulator of circDdb1 expression in muscle atrophy, whereas circDdb1 encodes a novel protein, circDdb1‐867aa. circDdb1‐867aa binds with and increases the phosphorylation level of eukaryotic elongation factor 2 (eEF2) at Thr56 to reduce protein translation and promote muscle atrophy. In summary, these findings establish circDdb1 as a shared regulator of muscle atrophy across multiple diseases and a potential therapeutic target.
Metal Ruthenium Complexes Treat Spinal Cord Injury By Alleviating Oxidative Stress Through Interaction With Antioxidant 1 Copper Chaperone Protein
Authors: Li Juanjuan , Peng Cheng , Huang Caiqiang , Wan Li , Wang Ke , Wu Ping , Chen Tianjun , Sun Guodong , Guo Rui , Lin Hongsheng , Ji Zhisheng
Published: October 2024

Oxidative stress is a major factor affecting spinal cord injury (SCI) prognosis. A ruthenium metal complex can aid in treating SCI by scavenging reactive oxygen species via a protein‐regulated mechanism to alleviate oxidative stress. This study aimed to introduce a pioneering strategy for SCI treatment by designing two novel half‐sandwich ruthenium (II) complexes containing diverse N^N‐chelating ligands. The general formula is [(η6‐Arene)Ru(N^N)Cl]PF6, where arene is either 2‐phenylethanol‐1‐ol (bz‐EA) or 3‐phenylpropanol‐1‐ol (bz‐PA), and the N^N‐chelating ligands are fluorine‐based imino‐pyridyl ligands. This study shows that these ruthenium metal complexes protect neurons by scavenging reactive oxygen species. Notably, η6‐Arene substitution from bz‐PA to bz‐EA significantly enhances reactive oxygen species scavenging ability and neuroprotective effect. Additionally, molecular dynamics simulations indicate that the ruthenium metal complex increases Antioxidant 1 Copper Chaperone protein expression, reduces oxidative stress, and protects neurons during SCI treatment. Furthermore, ruthenium metal complex protected spinal cord neurons and stimulated their regeneration, which improves electrical signals and motor functions in mice with SCI. Thus, this treatment strategy using ruthenium metal complexes can be a new therapeutic approach for the efficient treatment of SCI.
Enhanced Ferroelectric Polarization in Au@BaTiO3 Yolk‐in‐Shell Nanostructure for Synergistic Boosting Visible‐Light‐ Piezocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Hu Jun , Zhao Rufang , Ni Jingren , Luo Wei , Yu Hongjian , Huang Hongwei , Wu Boyuan , Wang Yang , Han Jie , Guo Rong
Published: October 2024

Developing efficient photo‐piezocatalytic systems to achieve the conversion of renewable energy to chemical energy emerges enormous potential. However, poor catalytic efficiency remains a significant obstacle to future practical applications. Herein, a series of unique Au@BaTiO3 (Au@BT) yolk‐shell nanostructure photo‐piezocatalyst is constructed with single Au nanoparticle (Au NP) embedded in different positions within ferroelectric BaTiO3 hollow nanosphere (BT‐HNS). This special structure showcases excellent mechanical force sensitivity and provides ample plasmon‐induced interfacial charge‐transfer pathways. In addition, the powerful piezoelectric polarization electric field induced by the enhanced ferroelectric polarization electric field via corona poling treatment in BT‐HNS further promotes charge separation, CO2 adsorption and key intermediate conversion. Notably, BT with single Au NP encapsulated into hollow nanosphere shell with reinforced polarization (Au@BT‐1‐P) shows synergistically improved photo‐piezocatalytic CO2 reduction activity for producing CO with a high production rate of 31.29 µmol g−1 h−1 under visible light irradiation and ultrasonic vibration. This work highlights a generic tactic for optimized design of high‐performance and multifunctional nanostructured photo‐piezocatalyst. Meanwhile, these yolk‐in‐shell nanostructures with single Au nanoparticle as an ideal model may hold great promise to inspire in‐depth exploration of carrier dynamics and mechanistic understanding of the catalytic reaction.
Seasonal Feeding Activity and Ontogenetic Dietary Shifts of the Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) in Lake Arekit, a Small, Eutrophic Lake in Ethiopia
Authors: Wagaw Solomon , Enawgaw Yirga , Wendimu Injigu , Weldemichael Helen
Published: October 2024

Seasonal feeding activity and ontogenetic dietary shifts of Cyprinus carpio (Linnaeus, 1758) were examined using 209 fish samples from Lake Arekit, Ethiopia. Among the 209 specimens, 174 (83.3%) displayed a range of dietary items in their stomachs. The species’ feeding patterns were determined through numerical indexes (frequency of occurrence and volumetric contribution) and composite indexes (index of preponderance [IOP] and Geometric Index of Importance [GIIi]). Detritus emerged as the primary food source for C. carpio, followed by macrophytes, insects and zooplankton. A lesser amount of phytoplankton, nematodes and ostracods were also consumed. On the basis of the findings, C. carpio can be classified as a detri‐omnivore, as it consumes benthic species like nematodes, ostracods and insect larvae. Seasonal fluctuations in food item consumption were noted (p < 0.05), with higher intake during the rainy season and reduced consumption in the dry season. There was a distinct ontogenetic shift in the relative importance of food items and showed significant variations in food preferences among size groups (p < 0.05). The contributions of animal‐origin food categories (ostracods, zooplankton and insects) were important in the diet of the smaller size class, whereas food of plant origin (macrophytes) and detritus were more important in the diet of adults. Understanding the seasonal feeding patterns and ontogenetic dietary shifts of C. carpio in Lake Arekit provides crucial insights into their ecological role within the lake's ecosystem and highlights their adaptability to eutrophic conditions.