bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Inventory Management and Financial Performance of Manufacturing Firms in Nigeria
Authors: Ikechi Joseph, Fineboy , Chidi Ubani, Ezebunwa , Kelechi Nwankwo Calistus , Mannaseh Omeonu, Obioma
Published: August 2023

The study examines the effect of inventory management on the financial performance of selected manufacturing firms in Nigeria. The ex-post facto design was adopted in this study. 56 listed manufacturing firms in the Nigerian Stock Market were selected as the population of the study. Eleven (11) companies were selected using a purposive sampling method. Multiple Ordinary Least Square regression technique, specifically the panel regression model was applied in testing the hypotheses of the study. Firstly, the study revealed that cash conversion cycle has a negative significant effect on return on assets of listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria. The second hypothesis tested showed that account receivable turnover has a positive significant impact on return on assets of listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria. The third hypothesis tested that indicated that account payable turnover has a positive significant effect on return on assets of listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria. Consequently, the recommendations of the study that manufacturing firms in Nigeria should speed up the conversion of finished into sales. Through putting in place appropriate marketing strategies that ensure quick sales of product to attract more revenues and profit, this can be achieved. Again, manufacturing firms should strive to retain only credit worthy customers who would ensure prompt payment of account receivables. By so doing, quick returns would be enhanced and profitability of manufacturing firms boosted. In conclusion, the manufacturing firms should strive to achieve timely payment of credit purchases as this would aid the suppliers have greater confidence in entrusting more raw materials to the firms on credit basis with the positive effect of boosting their inventories, increased sales and profit.
Relationship between Feeding Regime and Fish Growth
Authors: Haetami Kiki , Pratiwy Fittrie Meyllianawaty
Published: August 2023

Feeding regime or feeding rate? is how much to feed the fish. From how much or portion used for fish feed can affect fish growth. Feeding regime is the determination of the amount of feed per day based on the feeding rate (FR). Feeding rate is the feed requirement per day based on fish biomass and weight.

Aims: This research aims to find out how the relationship between feeding regime and fish growth and development.

Study Design:  Journal review.

Methodology: The research method used was descriptive analysis method or library research by collecting data from written sources, namely journals that are relevant to the topic of the writing being carried out. After the data was collected, the next was the data selection in accordance with the research objectives. The selected data was then processed systematically and structured while data analysis was carried out using a descriptive approach by presenting the data obtained in narrative form.

Results: The result of this research indicated that fish growth and development are influenced by internal and external factors, one of which is the fish feeding regime.

Conclusion: Feeding regime is an important factor in aquaculture. This feeding regime includes how to feed and the portion that will be given to the fish being cultured. Good feed contains sufficient nutrients as needed for fish growth. In addition to the feed factor, growth is also influenced by internal and external factors such as the type of fish, type of feed, environment and others. A good feeding regime or rate? must be adjusted to the nutritional needs of fish, each type of fish has different nutritional needs.
Effect of Traditional Fertilizer, Nano-Fertilizer and Micronutrient on Growth, Yield and Quality of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Roushan Kumar , Deepanshu  , Singh Devi
Published: August 2023

A trial was conducted at the Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, Prayagraj (UP) during 2022. This study investigates the “Effect of traditional fertilizer, nano fertilizer and micronutrient on growth, yield and quality of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.).” The purpose of the study is to evaluate the plants in terms of various parameters such as plant height, survival percentage, days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, number of flower clusters per plant, number of fruit set per cluster, number of fruits per plant, fruit weight, fruit yield per plant, fruit yield per hectare, total soluble solids (TSS), ascorbic acid, and benefit-cost ratio. The study's findings show that applying more NPK, ZnSO4, and Nano Zinc to the soil dramatically increased tomato growth and yield. The plants treated with 100% NPK + 25% ZnSO4 by the conventional approach + 75% spray through Nano zinc had the maximum fruit yield (135.57 t/ha), fruit weight (88.407 g), TSS (5.36 Brix), and ascorbic acid content (26.4 mg/100g). Additionally, it was discovered that the treated plants' benefit-cost ratio was larger than the control's. Overall, the study indicates that increasing the growth, yield, and quality of tomatoes can be accomplished by applying 100% NPK + 25% ZnSO4 by traditional technique + 75% spray via Nano zinc.
Assessment and GIS Mapping of Soil Quality Indicators of Agroecological Unit 9 of Kerala, India
Authors: Joseph Biju
Published: August 2023

Context: The agroecological unit 9 (AEU 9) in Alappuzha district of Kerala represents the south central laterites. The soils are acidic, gravelly, having low activity clay, often underlain by plinthite with low water and nutrient retention capacity. Assessment of soil quality indicators and mapping of resources and soil fertility status is essential for planning and development activities.

Aims: Soil quality assessment was made by collecting observations on physical, chemical and biological indicators, soil quality index was computed and generated maps using GIS.

Study Design: Survey, collection of soil samples and principal component analysis.

Place and Duration of Study: A study was conducted in agroecological unit 9 (south central laterites) in Alappuzha district of Kerala during 2020.

Methods: Geo-referenced composite soil samples were collected from 75 locations of AEU9 in Alappuzha district, and were characterized for physical, chemical and biological attributes for evaluating soil quality. Principal component analysis (PCA) was carried out for soil parameters and a minimum data set (MDS) was arrived from seven principal components (PC 1 to PC 7) with eigen values greater than 1. The selected soil quality indicators were categorized into classes, assigned with scores and soil quality index was computed. Based on soil quality index, soils were rated as poor, medium or good. GIS based thematic maps of soil quality indicators and index were prepared.

Results: The soils of AEU 9 are sandy loam in texture, strongly acidic (pH 4.5-5.5), medium in organic carbon, low in available N, medium in available P and K, deficient in available Ca, Mg and B. Majority (80%) of the soils are rated poor and 20% rated medium in soil quality. From the study it is concluded that pH, clay%, bulk density, available nutrients N, P, K, Ca and S are the key indicators of soil quality in AEU 9.
Compatibility of Fungicides with Potent Trichoderma Isolates
Authors: Dinkwar G. T. , Yadav V. K. , Kumar Ashish , Nema Sushma , Mishra Shubham
Published: August 2023

The sensitivity of biological control agents were tested against fungicides that are used to treat plant diseases. Application of fungicides should not interfere with biological control agents ability to effectively manage disease. Trichoderma is an aggressive coloniser of soil and plant roots that can flourish in a variety of environmental circumstances. It also functions as a natural bioagent to shield plants against infection by soil-borne fungal infections. Evaluation of the various fungicides against five potent Trichoderma isolates in vitro was done in order to determine the compatibility of bioagents with the fungicides was performed at the Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur. Trichoderma was highly compatible with the following contact, systemic, and combi fungicides: Imbrex (Fluxapyroxad EC), Curzate M8 (Cymoxanil 8%+ Mancozeb 64% WP), Vitavax (Carboxin 37.5% + Thiram 37.5% DS) and Seedkot (Thiram 75% WS), while it proved just moderately compatible with Amistar top (Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4% SC) and Headline (Pyraclostrobin 20% WG). It showed least compatibility with Nativo (Tebuconazole 50%+ Trifloxystrobin 25% WG), Taqat (Captan 70%+ Hexaconazole 5% WP), Folicur (Tebuconazole 25.9% EC), and Saaf (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP).
Effect of Nutrient Management on Crop Moisture Utilization and Water Use Efficiency in Indian Mustard
Authors: Mamata  , Singh R. P. , Manisha  , Gurjar Gaurav Singh , Yadav Santosh
Published: August 2023

Improving agricultural water use efficiency is a major concern, particularly in areas affected by drought, as it significantly limits grain production worldwide. Efficient water management techniques are essential for crop production in water-scarce regions. Enhancing crop water use efficiency and drought tolerance through genetic improvement and physiological regulation can contribute to more effective water utilization. A field experiment was conducted during Rabi season 2017-18 at Agriculture Farm, Bhagwant University, Ajmer to study the “Effect of nutrient management on growth, yield and quality of mustard” to evaluate the effect of nutrient management on crop moisture utilization and moisture use efficiency. The experiment comprising of 10 treatments replicated three times, was laid out in randomized block design. The treatments are Control (T1), Water Spray (T2), 2% urea spray (T3), 100% RDF (T4), 50% RDF + 2% urea spray (T5), 50 % RDF + 2% Multiplex spray (T6), 50% RDF + 2% urea + 2% Multiplex spray (T7), 100% RDF + 2% urea spray (T8), 100 % RDF + 2% Multiplex spray (T9), 100% RDF + 2%urea + 2% Multiplex spray (T11). The results indicated that the application of 100% RDF (Recommended Dose of Fertilizer) along with 2% urea and 2% Multiplex spray improved crop moisture utilization and moisture use efficiency.
Synthesis and Characterization of Sodium Gluconate and Its Effects on the Properties of Portland Cement
Authors: Nafee Mahdee Muhammad , Akhtar Umme Sarmeen , Islam Md. Sagirul , Halim Md. Ershad , Mostafa Mohammad Golam , Haque Imdadul
Published: August 2023

The research explores the synthesis and characterization of sodium gluconate as a retarding admixture for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and its impact on cement properties. The study found that sodium gluconate prolonged OPC's setting time, enhancing workability. Sodium gluconate was synthesized through a simple chemical process involving the reaction of gluconic acid with sodium hydroxide. The synthesized product was characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. The results showed that the synthesized sodium gluconate had a characteristic absorption peak at 3205 cm1.The variations were investigated for setting time, compressive strength, and porosity. However, higher dosages led to prolong the setting time, increased the workability, reduced compressive strength and improved porosity. The study emphasizes the importance of balancing sodium gluconate dosage with other locally available admixtures for desired retardation effects without compromising strength. Further research is needed to optimize dosage and explore long-term effects on cement properties.
Numerical Design of an Off-Grid Wind Energy Systems for Small Scale Residential Power Supply
Authors: Kangiwa Umar Muhammad , Mohammed Gwani , Hussaini Zayyanu, , Umar Sadik
Published: August 2023

The socio-economic developments of all nations depend duly on electrical energy supply. Nigeria as a country is faced with challenges of poor electric power supply due to the challenges from the power holding company of Nigeria (PHCN) which have left many households and isolated areas with no access to electricity. The fact that fossil fuel generators contributes to climate changes, renewable energy such as wind could be the best alternative. This paper presents the numerical design of an off-grid wind energy systems for powering load demand of two bedrooms apartment. The load demand of two bedroom flats were estimated and sizes of wind turbine, storage batteries and inverter with respect to typical load demand were numerically estimated. The performance of three 1 KW horizontal axis wind turbines of the same capacity but from different manufacturers namely; Bergey’s (BWC XL.1), Wind energy (WE.7) and Hummer wind energy (H3.1) were numerically tested  using the average monthly wind speed data of Aliero Kebbi state, Nigeria. The result shows that integrating 1 kW wind turbine with 6 pieces of 200 Ah batteries on 24 V system and 1 kVA inverter would be feasible for 505 W (4.37 kWh/day) load demand with two days autonomy. The  annual mean energy generated by the  BWC XL.1, WE.7 and H3.1 using annual mean wind speed 5.03 m/s were 1782 kWh/yr, 1451kWh/yr and 1909 kWh/yr, attaining  efficiencies of 44.45 % 33.22 % and 33.22 % respectively. Based on these results, BWC XL.1 could be best alternative wind turbine for the location because of its optimum efficiency. In addition, its energy generation of 1782 kWh/yr is 11.72% greater than 1595 kWh/year, the typical residential household load demand.
Probing for the Energy-Conserving Load Rates of the Asynchronous Motor by Harnessing the Efficiency and Power Factor Synergy
Authors: Oyakhilomen Omogbai Nelson
Published: August 2023

In the light of the energy saving drive and environmental concerns in today’s world, the technical and procurement staff of industries are encouraged to invariably take into consideration, motor efficiency as well as power factor in their motor load analyses prior to embarking on motor installation/replacement decisions. It is believed that with this practice, which hinges on a tradeoff between loading at high operating power factor and loading at high operating efficiency, the motor-driven business may stand a better chance of being run greener and more economical. This article proposes a method that engineers in research or in charge of the operations and maintenance of the 3-phase squirrel cage induction motor (SCIM) in business, may deploy to arrive at the energy efficient load range/rates for the machines of interest. The method was developed with the aid of the following motor curves viz: the load/efficiency curve, the load/compensated power factor curve as well as the load/kilovolt ampere reactive (KVAR) curve; and demonstrated on three different SCIM ratings, to determine their respective most energy efficient bounds of loading. Field data, z-score analysis and the power loss simulations were used for validating the proposed method. The energy efficient load range/rate was found to be machine-specific and the width of this load range seemed to be jointly governed by the high efficiency span of the load-efficiency curve as well as the load-wide profile of the power factor over the most part of the SCIM loading, up to full load. The mean optimal loading for the machines investigated, ranged from 66% - 73%, with standard deviations not exceeding 15.85%.
Relationship between Energy Consumption, Carbon Dioxide Emissions and Economic Growth: Evidence from Selected Top Oil Energy-Consuming Countries
Authors: Noorymotlagh Maryam , Çiftçioğlu S.
Published: August 2023

With rising climate change concerns and increasing energy demand, many of the developed countries are pursuing sustainable and low carbon economic development plans. The dramatic use of fossil-fuel energy in the economy increases the level of carbon dioxide emissions. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the dominant greenhouse gas that intensifies the global warming phenomena as a rising challenge over the last two decades. As developed nations around the world are taking immediate steps to address this issue, it is vital to use energy efficiently and minimize environmental pollution effects. Thus, this research examined the relationship between energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and economic growth for the top oil energy-consuming countries, including the U.S., Japan, Canada, and Australia. It also estimated the impact of other macroeconomic parameters comprising inflation rate, investment rate, and trade openness on economic growth. Multiple regression analysis was employed for the time series data covering the timespan from 1990-2018. The empirical findings indicated that energy consumption has a positive and significant impact on economic growth in the selected countries. Unsurprisingly, CO2 emissions, a proxy for fuel-based energy use, had a destructive influence on the environment. Moreover, the results showed that a positive association existed between investment rate, trade openness, and economic growth. Conversely, the inflation rate in all of the selected countries had an insignificant impact on growth output. Policies such as efficient use of energy, increasing the rate of tax, replacing bio-diesel fuel, or implementing renewable energy instead of fossil-fuels were suggested to curb carbon emissions.
Evaluating Effect of Palm Kernel Shell Ash Additives on Compresive Strength Properties of Geopolymer Concrete of Clay from Ire Ekiti and Ikere Ekiti
Authors: Oluborode K. D. , Olulope O. R. , Popoola O. O.
Published: August 2023

With abundance and viability of Clay soil at Ire Ekiti and Ikere Ekiti which can be use as geopolymer source material and abundance of Palm kernel shell ash (PKSA) in south western Nigeria, this study is to evaluate effect of PKSA- an agricultural waste, as additive on compressive strength of Ire and Ikere clay geopolymer concrete. Palm kernel shell was ashed at 650°C for 2 hours at the furnance of glass technology department, federal polytechnic, Ado- ekiti. Ire and Ikere Clay was similarly procured, air dried and calcined in a furnace at 750°C for 2 hours. The Pulverized calcined clay as source material for the geopolymer with 12M of NaOH and Na2SiO3, with NaOH to Na2SiO3 at ratio 2:5. River sand and 12 mm aggregate size of granite were adopted as filler in the geopolymer concrete mix at ratio 1:2:3. PKSA in mass percentages of the Ire and Ikere Clay in order of 0, 7.5 and 15% were added to the geopolymer concrete mixes for different specimen and maturities of 7, 14 and 28 days. Compressive strength of Ire Clay geopolymer concrete with PKSA as additives at room temperature has its highest compressive strength at 7.67 N/mm2 at 28 days with 15% additive while that of Ikere Clay Geopolymer has 10 N/mm² at 28 days maturity with 15% additive.
A Reddish Semitransparent Tumor in an Adolescent Girl
Authors: Wang Ying , Cheng Jiang-Wei , Li Jiu-Hong
Published: August 2023

A previously healthy 16-year-old girl presented with a lesion on her right upper arm that initially started as a small cutaneous nodule without obvious triggers and gradually developed and enlarged to form a red-colored tumor with a hard nodule inside. What is your diagnosis?
Evaluation of Professional Setbacks and Resilience in Biomedical Scientists During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Woitowich Nicole C. , Waddimba Anthony C. , Yeh Chen , Muhammad Lutfiyya N. , Warren Ann Marie , Wood Christine V.
Published: August 2023

This survey study evaluates whether resilience was associated with professional and career setbacks among biomedical scientists during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Innovations in Surgical Communication 2—Focus on the Goals of Surgery
Authors: Schwarze Margaret L. , Kruser Jacqueline M. , Clapp Justin T.
Published: August 2023

This Viewpoint discusses communicating goals of surgeries with patients.
Transition‐Metal‐Catalyzed Alkyl–Alkyl Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Iwasaki Takanori , Kambe Nobuaki
Published: August 2023

The cross‐coupling reaction of alkyl halides with alkyl metal reagents is a straightforward synthetic method to construct saturated carbon frameworks. Although the development of alkyl–alkyl cross‐coupling reactions has lagged behind advances made in the cross‐coupling of unsaturated compounds, various catalysts for alkyl–alkyl coupling are now available. The construction of challenging saturated carbon frameworks, such as those incorporating a quaternary carbon or chiral carbon center(s), is accomplished with the appropriate combination of catalyst and coupling partners. This chapter outlines the current understanding and efficient application of alkyl–alkyl cross‐coupling reactions. The mechanism of the process is presented for representative catalysts and the scope and limitations of the coupling reaction are discussed for each catalytic system. Successful applications of alkyl–alkyl cross‐coupling processes are also described for the stereoselective formation of saturated hydrocarbon frameworks and the synthesis of natural products.
COVID‐19 Vaccination and Gout Flare Risk in Patients With Infrequent or Frequent Flares: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: He Yuwei , Xue Xiaomei , Dalbeth Nicola , Terkeltaub Robert , Chen Ying , Yan Fei , Pang Lei , Li Xinde , Yuan Xuan , Cheng Xiaoyu , Li Changgui , Sun Mingshu
Published: August 2023

Objective

To assess post‐COVID‐19 vaccination gout flare risk with differing baseline flare burden.

Methods

We prospectively studied gout patients with infrequent or frequent flares, defined as ≤1 flare/year or ≥2 flares/year, respectively. COVID‐19 vaccine‐naive patients managed with urate‐lowering therapy between February and June 2021 were included and voluntarily decided on vaccination. Participants were followed for 12 weeks after enrollment or first vaccine dose. Gout flares and risk factors were compared between groups.

Results

Of 530 participants, 308 (58.1%) had infrequent flares and 222 (41.9%) had frequent flares at baseline, with 248 (142 infrequent and 106 frequent) receiving two‐dose COVID‐19 vaccination. Vaccination increased cumulative flare incidence at 12 weeks in the infrequent but not the frequent flare group (26.1% vs 10.8%, P = 0.001, compared with 60.4% vs 65.5%, P = 0.428). Flare incidence in the final 4 weeks of observation decreased significantly only in the vaccinated infrequent flare group (4.3% vs 12.0%, P = 0.017). Multivariable analyses showed that vaccination (odds ratio [OR] 2.82, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.50–5.30, P = 0.001), flare in the preceding year (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.03–3.71, P = 0.04), and body mass index (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.01–1.19, P = 0.03) were independently associated with increased flare risk in the infrequent flare group. Baseline serum urate (mg/dl) was an independent risk factor in the frequent flare group (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.05–1.45, P = 0.012).

Conclusion

COVID‐19 vaccination was associated with increased early gout flares only in patients with previously infrequent flares.

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Stimuli–Responsive Mechanoadaptive Elastomeric Composite Materials: Challenges, Opportunities, and New Approaches
Authors: Dolui Tuhin , Natarajan Tamil S. , S Aiswarya , Chanda Jagannath , Ghosh Prasenjit , Mukhopadhyay Rabindra , Wießner Sven , Heinrich Gert , Das Amit , Banerjee Shib Shankar
Published: August 2023

Stimuli–responsive mechanoadaptive materials, capable of reversibly changing their mechanical properties when exposed to an external stimulus, are the next generation of smart materials with immense transformative potential for various technological applications. Although the concept of adaptive mechanical properties has been proven for some materials, it remains very challenging for soft elastomeric materials. The aim of this review is to provide new ideas and strategies for the development of mechanoadaptive elastomeric composites using commercial rubber as the matrix polymer. The fundamental question addressed here is as follows: How do the phase‐responsive functional fillers alter the mechanical properties? For a given physical network environment, what is the mechanism that gives rise to the stimuli–responsive properties of the resulting composites? Herein, the preparation, structure, and properties of recently developed mechanoadaptive elastomeric materials are summarized. Furthermore, based on their structure–property relationships, plausible applications of these smart materials in various technology‐specific applications such as soft robotics, actuators, sensors, smart tires, automotive design, aerospace, etc. are demonstrated with representative examples. Finally, the article critically discusses the existing challenges in the field of mechanoadaptive elastomers in order to provide valuable insights in this area.
Anisotropic Nature of Lightweight Wooden Metamaterials with Mechanical/Thermomechanical Multistability
Authors: Yang Yushan , Dang Baokang , Wang Chao , Chen Yipeng , Chen Kaicong , Chen Xinjie , Li Yingying , Sun Qingfeng
Published: August 2023

Nanoengineered wood provides a renewable structural material with 3D micro and nanoarchitectures, exhibiting many beneficial characteristics such as being lightweight in nature, mechanically strong, eco‐friendly, thermally insulation, and low carbon footprint. Most nanocellulose aerogels lack sufficient mechanical strength, while nanowood involves a trade‐off between mechanical strength and insulation performance. Here, a nanowood‐derived product with mechanical/thermomechanical multistability called a wooden metamaterial, which is ultrastiff yet lightweight, is designed and synthesized. The self‐healing behaviors of cellulose nanofibrils originally present in the cell walls and their combination with microscale mechanical constraints are utilized to form directional porous frameworks (porosity ≥98%) and encapsulated empty fiber lumen in predesigned macroscopic architectures. The wooden metamaterials are lightweight, showing ultrahigh specific strength (207.7 MPa cm3 g−1), and ultrahigh anisotropy with an approximate factor of 4. Wooden metamaterials have overcome the mechanical/thermomechanical deficiencies of existing building materials and advanced aerospace thermal insulators, and have great potential for revolutionizing architecture and manufacturing industries, particularly as a lightweight, eco‐friendly, scalable, energy‐efficient, and cost‐effective.
Dinuclear Zinc Catalyzed [3+2] Annulation of Benzylideneindolinones Access to CF3‐Containing 2,3‐Pyrrolidinyl Dispirooxindoles
Authors: Zhai Ying‐Hui , Guo Ya‐Jun , Du Si‐Si , Wang Min‐Can , Jia Shi‐Kun , Hua Yuan‐Zhao
Published: August 2023

This report has realized the catalytic asymmetric [3+2] annulation of benzylideneindolinones with CF3‐containing isatin‐derived azomethine ylides for the first time, in which the organocatalysis has failed. In the presence of dinuclear zinc catalysts, a series of functionalized 2,3‐pyrrolidinyl dispirooxindoles have been synthesized in good yields with excellent stereoselectivity under mild reaction conditions. This protocol can be run on a gram scale and a possible catalytic mechanism is proposed.
Understanding of Stress‐Driven Internal Short Circuit Mechanisms in Lithium‐Ion Batteries with High SOCs
Authors: Duan Xudong , Li Jiani , Jia Yikai , Gao Xiang , Wang Lubing , Xu Jun
Published: August 2023

The characteristics of internal short circuits (ISC) play a critical role in determining the thermal runaway behaviors and associated hazards of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, due to safety concerns and limitations in operando characterization at high state‐of‐charges (SoCs), the fundamental understanding of stress‐driven ISCs under high SOC situations (above 30%) is still lacking. In this study, combined post‐mortem characterization and multiphysics modeling is employed to clarify the evolution of ISC modes in LIBs with high SOCs. These findings reveal that the triggered ISC mode is SOC‐dependent, with the Al current collector (Al)‐Anode coating (An) mode dominant in high SOC situations. Experimentally obtained ISC resistance for the specified ISC mode is then assigned to the corresponding ISC region in the established multiphysics model, allowing for accurate coupling of the electromechanical relationship and prediction of mechanical‐electrical‐thermal responses of the LIB. Finally, a simple yet effective approach is proposed for avoiding the Al‐An mode after battery fractures, achieved through surface notches on electrodes. Results discover novel phenomena for ISC in high SOC cells and reveal the underlying mechanisms, highlighting the importance and potential of battery structural design for developing next‐generation robust batteries.
High‐Performance n‐Type Organic Thermoelectrics Enabled by Synergistically Achieving High Electron Mobility and Doping Efficiency
Authors: Feng Kui , Wang Junwei , Jeong Sang Young , Yang Wanli , Li Jianfeng , Woo Han Young , Guo Xugang
Published: August 2023

n‐Doped polymers with high electrical conductivity (σ) are still very scarce in organic thermoelectrics (OTEs), which limits the development of efficient organic thermoelectric generators. A series of fused bithiophene imide dimer‐based polymers, PO8, PO12, and PO16, incorporating distinct oligo(ethylene glycol) side‐chain to optimize σ is reported here. Three polymers show a monotonic electron mobility decrease as side‐chain size increasing due to the gradually lowered film crystallinity and change of backbone orientation. Interestingly, polymer PO12 with a moderate side‐chain size delivers a champion σ up to 92.0 S cm−1 and a power factor (PF) as high as 94.3 µW m−1 K−2 in the series when applied in OTE devices. The PF value is among the highest ones for the solution‐processing n‐doped polymers. In‐depth morphology studies unravel that the moderate crystallinity and the formation of 3D conduction channel derived from bimodal orientation synergistically contribute to high doping efficiency and large charge carrier mobility, thus resulting in high performance for the PO12‐based OTEs. The results demonstrate the great power of simple tuning of side chain in developing n‐type polymers with substantial σ for improving organic thermoelectric performance.
Topical Drug Delivery of Concentrated Cabazitaxel in an α‐Tocopherol and DMSO Solution
Authors: Sun Boyang , Paraskevopoulos Georgios , Min Jiwei , Rossdeutcher Robert , Ghosh Sanjana , Quinn Breandan , Lin Meng‐Hsuan , Sarkar Debanjan , Sukumaran Dinesh , Wang Yuefei , Vávrová Kateřina , Lovell Jonathan F. , Zhang Yumiao
Published: August 2023

Topical chemotherapy approaches are relevant for certain skin cancer treatments. This study observes that cabazitaxel (CTX), a broad‐spectrum second‐generation taxane cytotoxic agent, can be dissolved in α‐tocopherol at high concentrations exceeding 100 mg mL−1. 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis and molecular dynamics (MD) are used to study this phenomenon. The addition of 30% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to the α‐tocopherol/CTX solution improves its working viscosity and enhances CTX permeation through human skin in vitro (over 5 µg cm−2 within 24 h), while no detectable drug permeates when CTX is dissolved in α‐tocopherol alone. In a transepidermal water loss assay, the barrier impairment induced by CTX in 30% DMSO in α‐tocopherol, but not in pure DMSO, is reversible 8 h after the formulation removal from the skin surface. Antitumor efficacy of the topical CTX formulation is evaluated in nude mice bearing A431 human squamous carcinoma skin cancer xenografts. With topical application of concentrated CTX solutions (75 mg mL−1), tumor growth is significantly suppressed compared to lower concentration groups (0, 25, or 50 mg mL−1 CTX). Taken together, these findings show that topical delivery of CTX using a DMSO and α‐tocopherol solvent warrants further study as a treatment for skin malignancies.
Porous Lead Iodide Layer Promotes Organic Amine Salt Diffusion to Achieve High Performance p‐i‐n Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Sun Qing , Duan Shaocong , Liu Gang , Meng Xiangxin , Hu Die , Deng Jianguo , Shen Bo , Kang Bonan , Silva S. Ravi P.
Published: August 2023

Flexible perovskite solar cells (FPSCs) are attracting widespread research and attention for their benefits as the next‐generation wearable electronic products. However, there are still many challenges in the quest to achieve dense, pinhole‐free, high crystal quality, low defect, and stable perovskite films, which limit further improvement in the efficiency and stability of FPSCs. Herein, a novel technique for the incorporation of quaternary ammonium halide (QAH) additives to prepare fluffy porous lead iodide layers by using a two‐step sequential deposition method, is reported. Benefiting from the good diffusion of organic amine salts on porous PbI2 layers, flat and dense perovskite films are produced with large particle sizes, few defects, and high crystal quality. Finally, the champion rigid and flexible p‐i‐n PSCs with the 2‐(acetyloxy)‐N,N,N‐trimethylethanium chloride (AtaCl) additive achieves exciting power conversion efficiencies (PCE) of 23.40% and 21.10%, respectively. The device with the AtaCl additive retains over 90% of its original PCE under ambient conditions (40 ± 5% relative humidity (RH)) over 1000 h of aging without encapsulation. In addition, the flexible device with the AtaCl additive shows excellent stability under mechanical bending conditions, retaining ≈85% of its original PCE after 10 000 cycles (bending radius = 5 mm).
Recent Advances in External Fields‐Enhanced Electrocatalysis
Authors: Luo Lan , Xu Liang , Wang Qiangyu , Shi Qiwei , Zhou Hua , Li Zhenhua , Shao Mingfei , Duan Xue
Published: August 2023

Electrocatalytic technology provides a promising approach for energy storage, conversion, and utilization. The design and modification of electrocatalysts have been widely applied to improve the performance of electrocatalytic reactions, but bottlenecks can be entered that make it  hard to make dramatic progress. The achievement of high‐performance electrocatalysis requires a continuous effort in advancing the new techniques. The introduction of external fields is an attractive approach to improve the mass transfer and change the reaction kinetics, which can remarkably enhance the electrocatalytic performance. This review describes the recent developments in the application of various external fields, including light, magnetic fields, elastic strain, external pressure, and gravity, to boost electrocatalytic reactions (e.g., water splitting, alcohols oxidation, CO2 reduction, and N2 reduction). The relevant mechanisms of external fields to boost charge transport, mass transfer, and the adsorption of reactants are highlighted. Finally, the remaining challenges and future opportunities for coupling external fields with electrocatalysis are discussed.
Extracellular water to total body water ratio, a novel predictor of recurrence in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Horino Taichi , Tokunaga Ryuma , Miyamoto Yuji , Akiyama Takahiko , Daitoku Nobuya , Sakamoto Yuki , Ohuchi Mayuko , Ogawa Katsuhiro , Yoshida Naoya , Baba Hideo
Published: August 2023

Background

Total body water (TBW) fraction, which accounts for 60% of body weight, is an important indicator of body composition, and the extracellular water to TBW ratio (ECW/TBW) is reportedly useful in predicting clinical outcomes of patients with organ disorders. We aimed to clarify the clinical impact of preoperative ECW/TBW status on survival outcomes in cancer patients.

Methods

We used a database of 320 colorectal cancer (CRC) patients who underwent potentially curative resections. Preoperative ECW/TBW was measured using a bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and its correlation with patient survival outcomes, clinicopathological factors, laboratory data, and comorbidities were analyzed.

Results

A high preoperative ECW/TBW was significantly associated with poorer relapse‐free survival (RFS; p = 0.001) and overall survival (OS; p = 0.003). A high ECW/TBW ratio was significantly associated with older age (p < 0.001), low BMI (p = 0.009), and right‐sided tumors (p = 0.03). In a multivariate analysis, a high ECW/TBW significantly predicted a higher RFS mortality (HR: 2.07, 95% CI: 1.10–3.88, p = 0.024) and OS mortality (HR: 3.23, 95% CI: 1.25–8.36, p = 0.016). Furthermore, a high ECW/TBW was significantly associated with lower hemoglobin (p < 0.001) and albumin levels (p < 0.001), but not comorbidities.

Conclusions

A high preoperative ECW/TBW was a predictive factor for recurrence and poorer overall survival independent of the tumor, node, and metastasis (TNM) stage. Our data suggest that preoperative evaluation of ECW/TBW using BIA might serve as a novel tool for developing CRC treatment strategies.
Physical fitness of Tibetan adolescents at different high altitudes in Tibet, China: A comparative study
Authors: Chang Zimin , Ye Huimin , Huang Bo , Xu Jun
Published: August 2023

Objective

High altitude hypoxic environment has a certain negative impact on physical fitness of adolescents. We aimed to understand the physical fitness status of Tibetan adolescents in different high‐altitude areas in Tibet, China.

Methods

Physical fitness items, such as grip strength, standing long jump, sit and reach, 50 m dash, 1000 m run for boys, and 800 m run for girls were tested on 3806 Tibetan adolescents by using stratified whole group sampling method in class units. The mean age of the participants was (15.51 ± 1.69) years for Tibetan males and (15.54 ± 1.69) years for females. One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and other methods were used to make cross‐sectional comparisons of physical fitness performance of Chinese Tibetan adolescents in different high‐altitude regions.

Results

The standing long jump scores of boys (203.37 ± 28.36) were higher than that of girls (152.97 ± 19.46) and the lowest standing long jump scores of adolescents in Shigatse region (166.39 ± 35.04). The highest level of sit and reach was found among boys (10.69 ± 5.34) in Nyingchi and the lowest level of sit and reach was found among girls (8.42 ± 5.84) in Shigatse. Shigatse region adolescents had the lowest performance in 50 m dash (9.09 ± 1.72) while the best performance in 1000 m run (266.23 ± 35.82) and 800 m run (245.40 ± 27.92).

Conclusion

There is variability in the physical fitness of Tibetan adolescents in different high‐altitude regions of Tibet, China. Targeted physical fitness interventions should be carried out for Tibetan adolescents in different high‐altitude regions. The focus should be on improving the endurance quality of Tibetan adolescents in Lhasa and the lower limb muscle strength, flexibility, and speed quality of adolescents in Shigatse.
Neutrophils Are Associated with Higher Risk of Incident Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in a BMI‐ and Age‐Dependent Manner
Authors: Cao Wen , Cao Zhi , Tian Yao , Zhang Linjing , Wang Wenjing , Tang Lu , Xu Chenjie , Fan Dongsheng
Published: August 2023

Objective

Peripheral immune markers have been associated with the progression and prognosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, whether dysregulation of peripheral immunity is a risk factor for ALS or a consequence of motor neuron degeneration has not yet been clarified. We aimed to identify longitudinal associations between prediagnostic peripheral immunity and the risk of incident ALS.

Methods

A total of 345,000 individuals from the UK Biobank between 2006 and 2010 were included at the baseline. The counts of peripheral immune markers (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, platelets, and CRP) and its derived metrics (neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio [NLR], platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio [PLR], lymphocyte‐to‐monocyte ratio [LMR], and systemic immune‐inflammation index [SII]) were analyzed in relation to the following incident ALS by Cox proportional hazard models. Subgroup and interaction analyses were performed to explore the covariates of these relationships further.

Results

After adjusting for all covariates, the multivariate analysis showed that high neutrophil counts and their derived metrics (NLR and SII) were associated with an increased risk of ALS incidence (per SD increment hazard ratio [HR] = 1.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02–1.29 for neutrophils; HR = 1.15, 95% CI = 1.03–1.28 for NLR; and HR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.05–1.30 for SII). Subgroup and interaction analyses revealed that body mass index (BMI) and age had specific effects on this association. In participants with BMI ≥ 25 or age < 65 years, higher neutrophil counts, and their metrics increased the risk of incident ALS; however, in participants with BMI < 25 or age ≥ 65 years, neutrophils had no effect on incident ALS.

Interpretation

Our study provides evidence that increased neutrophil levels and neutrophil‐derived metrics (NLR and SII) are associated with an increased risk of developing ALS. ANN NEUROL 2023;94:942–954
An In Situ Investigation of the Protein Corona Formation Kinetics of Single Nanomedicine Carriers by Self‐Regulated Electrochemiluminescence Microscopy
Authors: Xing Zejing , Gou Xiaodan , Jiang Li‐Ping , Zhu Jun‐Jie , Ma Cheng
Published: August 2023

Protein coronas are present extensively at the bio‐nano interface due to the natural adsorption of proteins onto nanomaterials in biological fluids. Aside from the robust property of nanoparticles, the dynamics of the protein corona shell largely define their chemical identity by altering interface properties. However, the soft coronas are normally complex and rapidly changing. To real‐time monitor the entire formation, we report here a self‐regulated electrochemiluminescence (ECL) microscopy based on the interaction of the Ru(bpy)33+ with the nanoparticle surface. Thus, the heterogeneity of the protein corona is in situ observed in single nanoparticle “cores” before and after loading drugs in nanomedicine carriers. The label‐free, optical stable and dynamic ECL microscopy minimize misinterpretations caused by the variation of nanoparticle size and polydispersity. Accordingly, the synergetic actions of proteins and nanoparticles properties are uncovered by chemically engineered protein corona. After comparing the protein corona formation kinetics in different complex systems and different nanomedicine carriers, the universality and accuracy of this technique were well demonstrated via the protein corona formation kinetics curves regulated by competitive adsorption of Ru(bpy)33+ and multiple proteins on surface of various carriers. The work is of great significance for studying bio‐nano interface in drug delivery and targeted cancer treatment.
Plasmon‐Induced Charge Transfer‐Enhanced Raman Scattering on a Semiconductor: Toward Amplification‐Free Quantification of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Feng Enduo , Zheng Tingting , He Xiaoxiao , Chen Jinquan , Gu Qingyi , He Xiao , Hu Fanghao , Li Jinghong , Tian Yang
Published: August 2023

Semiconductors demonstrate great potentials as chemical mechanism‐based surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates in determination of biological species in complex living systems with high selectivity. However, low sensitivity is the bottleneck for their practical applications, compared with that of noble metal‐based Raman enhancement ascribed to electromagnetic mechanism. Herein, a novel Cu2O nanoarray with free carrier density of 1.78×1021 cm−3 comparable to that of noble metals was self‐assembled, creating a record in enhancement factor (EF) of 3.19×1010 among semiconductor substrates. The significant EF was mainly attributed to plasmon‐induced hot electron transfer (PIHET) in semiconductor which was never reported before. This Cu2O nanoarray was subsequently developed as a highly sensitive and selective SERS chip for non‐enzyme and amplification‐free SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA quantification with a detection limit down to 60 copies/mL within 5 min. This unique Cu2O nanoarray demonstrated the significant Raman enhancement through PIHET process, enabling rapid and sensitive point‐of‐care testing of emerging virus variants.
Glass transition temperature of styrene‐based ionomer controlled over a very wide temperature range by nonpolar plasticizer content and ion content
Authors: Choi In‐Hwa , Kim Joon‐Seop
Published: August 2023

The plasticization effect by the addition of nonpolar bis(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (dioctyl phthalate) (DOP) on the glass transition temperatures (Tgs) of poly(styrene‐Na methacrylate) (PSMANa) ionomers was investigated. The matrix Tg (Tg,m) and cluster Tg (Tg,c) of the ionomers dropped linearly as the DOP content in the PSMANa ionomers enhanced, only when the phase separation of DOP did not occur. Since the Tg,m and Tg,c of the ionomer increased somewhat linearly with increasing ion content of the ionomer, simple equations were obtained to express the Tgs of the ionomers using the ion contents (x mol%) and the DOP contents (y wt%) of the ionomers; Tg,m (°C) = 121 + 3.0x + 2.8y and Tg,c (°C) = 171 + 6.3x + 2.6y. According to the x‐ray scattering results, for the ionomer containing 6.4 mol% of ions, the distance between scattering centers increased from 21 to 22 Å when ca. 40 wt% of DOP was added. This suggested that the DOP promoted the mobility of the styrene chains, enhancing the formation of multiplets. On the other hand, for the ionomer containing 22.4 mol% of ions, when ca. 40 wt% was added, the distance between multiplets widened from 18 to 21 Å.
Recurrent marine heatwaves threaten the resilience and viability of a key Mediterranean octocoral species
Authors: Orenes‐Salazar Víctor , Navarro‐Martínez Pedro Clemente , Ruíz Juan Manuel , García‐Charton José Antonio
Published: August 2023

Long‐term ecological studies are essential for understanding the resilience of temperate reefs to ocean warming and the response of their habitat‐forming species to recurrent marine heatwaves (MHWs).

This study evaluated the long‐term response (2005–2021) of the habitat‐forming octocoral Eunicella singularis (Esper, 1791) to recurrent MHWs in a Mediterranean marine protected area established more than 25 years ago, where restrictions on fishing and diving activities are well enforced.

During the study period, there were two mass‐mortality events (MMEs), in 2007 and 2018, that dramatically disrupted the local gorgonian population. The MMEs were triggered by different temperature dynamics, which ultimately led to differential patterns in mortality rates.

The record‐breaking MHW in 2018 prompted one of the largest MMEs ever recorded in the Mediterranean Sea, which affected 75% of the individuals in the gorgonian population and killed 12.5% of colonies.

Furthermore, MHWs were detected in all years from 2014 to 2021, preventing injured tissues from fully recovering, leading to significant accumulated damage at the end of the study period (30 times higher than the levels prior to the first MME), and a marked decrease in resilience that threatens the population viability of this long‐lived species.

The octocoral studied is one of the most important structural and biomass contributors to one of the most diverse Mediterranean communities. These results underscore the great risk that annual MHWs pose to the long‐term integrity of the circalittoral rocky bottoms of the Mediterranean coasts.

In the face of climate change, MPAs must provide areas of reduced anthropic stress for gorgonian populations, enabling the restoration and maintenance of natural processes. Additionally, MPAs should serve as sentinel areas to test the effectiveness of coral restoration actions, which can help managers and scientists to estimate the usefulness of these techniques.
Exponential stability of time‐delay systems with flexible delayed impulse
Authors: Yu Zheqi , Ling Song , Liu Peter X.
Published: August 2023

The problem of exponential stability for time‐delay systems with flexible delayed impulse control is investigated. Unlike the conventional Razumikhin‐type inequality, variable parameter based on the flexible impulsive gain is introduced. Sufficient conditions for exponential stability are developed for a class of time‐delay systems, for which the size of delay is not limited by impulsive intervals. A flexible impulse control scheme is developed by utilizing the flexible impulsive gain and time‐varying delays. When the system is disturbed by the impulse interferences, both the impulse gain and impulse delay can be adjusted accordingly to make the system exponential stable. The effectiveness of the present results is illustrated by two numerical examples and an application.